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Pope, Alexander, 1688-1744

"A Select Collection of Old English Plays, Volume 2"


WILL.
Sir, let me alone: your mind I understand.
I will handle the matter, so that you shall owe me thanks,
But what, if she find fault with these spindle-shanks,
Or else with these black spots on your nose?
WIT.
In faith, sir boy, this talk deserveth blows.
WILL.
You will not misuse your best servant, I suppose?
For, by his nails and by his fingers too,
I will mar your marriage, if you do so.[385]
WIT.
I pray thee go thy ways, and leave this clatter.
WILL.
First shall I be so bold to break to you a matter.
WIT.
Tush, thou art disposed to spend words in waste,
And yet thou knowest this business asketh haste.
WILL.
But even two words, and then I am gone.
WIT.
If it be worth the hearing, say on.
WILL.
I would not have you think that I, for my part,
From my promise or from your service will depart,
But yet now and then it goeth to my heart,
When I think how this marriage may be to my smart.
WIT.
Why so?
WILL.
I would tell you the cause, if I durst for shame.
WIT.
Speak hardily what thou wilt without any blame.
WILL.
I am not disposed as yet to be tame,
And therefore I am loth to be under a dame,
Now you are a bachelor, a man may soon win you,
Me-thinks there is some good fellowship in you;
We may laugh and be merry at board and at bed,
You are not so testy as those that be wed.
Mild in behaviour and loth to fall out,
You may run, you may ride and rove round about,
With wealth at your will and all thing at ease,
Free, frank and lusty: easy to please.


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