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A Select Collection of Old English Plays, Volume 13

Act 5 — SCENE VIII.

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Enter Dorcas.

Dor. He would not offer't, would he? Bright. We have been In danger to be searched: hereafter we Must first be question'd by an officer, And bring it under hands we are no men, Or have nought dangerous about us, before We shall obtain access. New. We do expect In time your husband, to preserve you chaste, Should keep you with a guard of eunuchs, or Confine you, like Italians, to a room Where no male beast is pictur'd, lest the sight Of aught that can beget should stir desires. Dor. I mar'l, sir, who did license you to pry, Or spy out any friends that come to me; It shows an unbred curiosity, Which I'll correct hereafter. You will dare To break up letters shortly, and examine My tailor, lest, when he brings home my gown, There, be a man in't. I'll have whom I list, In what disguise I list, and when I list, And not have your sour eyes so saucy to peep, As if you, by prevention, meant to kill A basilisk. Ware. Mistress, do what you list, Send for your couch out, lie with your gallants there Before us all: or, if you have a mind To fellows that can lift weights, I can call Two footmen too. Sea. You are too patient, sir: Send for the marshal, and discharge your house. Mis. Sea. Truly a handsome woman! what pity 'tis She is not honest. [Aside. Mis. Hol. Two proper gentlemen, too. Lord, that such pictures might be sent to me!

[Aside.

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