RESPUBLICA A.D. 1553 A DRAMA OF REAL LIFE IN THE EARLY DAYS OF QUEEN MARY

First, health and success, with many a good new year, Wished unto all this noble presence here! I have more t' entreat you of gentle sufferance That this our matter may have quiet utterance. We, that are th' authors, have ourselves dedicate With some Christmas devise, your spirits to recreate; And, our poet trusteth, the thing we shall recite May, without offence, the hearers' minds delight; Indeed, no man speaketh words so well fore pondered, But the same, by some means, may be misconstrued. Nor, nothing so well meant but that, by some pretence, It may be wrong interpreted from the author's sense. But, let this be taken no worse than it is meant, And I hope nor we, nor our poet, shall be shent. But now, of th' argument to touch a word or twain: The name of our play is Respublica, certain. Our meaning is—I say not, as by plain story, But as it were in figure by an allegory— To show that all commonweals ruin and decay From time to time hath been, is, and shall be alway, When Insolence, Flattery, Oppression, And Avarice have the rule in their possession. But, though these vices, by cloaked collusion, And by counterfeit names hidden their abusion, Do reign for a while to commonweals' prejudice, Perverting all right, and all order of true justice; Yet time trieth all, and time bringeth truth to light; That wrong may not ever still reign in place of right. For, when pleaseth God such commonweals to restore To their wealth and honour, wherein they were afore, He sendeth down His most tender compassion, To cause truth go about in visitation. Verity, the daughter of sage old Father Time, Sheweth all as it is, be it virtue or crime; Then doth Justice, all such as commonwealth oppress— Tempered with mercy—endeavour to suppress; With whom, anon, is linked tranquillity and peace, To commonweals' joy and perpetual increase. But shall boys, (saith some now), of such high matters play? No! not as discussers; but yet, the book doth say: Ex ore infantium perferisti laudem. For, when Christ came riding into Jerusalem, The young babes, with th' old folk, cried out all and some: "Blessed be the man that in the Lord's name doth come!" So, for good England's sake, this present hour and day, In hope of her restoring from her late decay, We children, to you old folk, both with heart and voice, May join all together to thank God, and rejoice That He hath sent Mary, our sovereign and queen, To reform th' abuses which hitherto hath been; And that ills which long time have reigned uncorrect Shall now, for ever, be redressed with effect. She is our most wise and most worthy Nemesis; Of whom our play meaneth, t' amend that is amiss; Which, to bring to pass, that she may have time and space, Let us, both young and old, to God commend her grace! Now, if you so please, I will go and hither send That shall make you laugh well, if ye abide th' end.

Avarice. Now, godigod! everyone, both great and small, From highest to lowest, Godigod to you all! Godigod! what should I say? even or morn, If I mark how the day goeth—God give me sorrow! But, godigod! each one, twenty and twenty score Of that ye most long for—what would ye have more? Ye must pardon my wits, for I tell you, plain, I have a hive of humble bees swarming in my brain; And he that hath the compass to fetch that I must fetch, I may say, in counsel, had need his wits to stretch. But now, what my name is, and what is my purpose— Taking you all for friends—I fear not to disclose. My very true, unchristian name is Avarice, Which I may not have openly known, in no wise; For, though to most men I am found commodious, Yet, to those that use me, my name is odious. For, who is so foolish that the evil he hath wrought For his own behoof, he would to light should be brought? Or, who had not rather, his ill doings to hide, Than to have the same bruited on every side? Therefore, to work my feat, I will my name disguise; And call my name Policy instead of Covetise. The name of Policy is praised of each one; But, to rake gromwell-seed, Avarice is alone; The name of Policy is of none suspected— Policy is ne'er of any crime detected. So that, under the name and cloak of Policy, Avarice may work facts, and scape all jealousy. And, now is the time come that—except I be a beast, E'en to make up my mouth, and to feather my nest— A time that I have waited for, a great long space; And now may I speed my purpose, if I have grace. For, hear ye, sirrah! our great, grand lady mother, Noble Dame Respublica, she and none other— Of the offals, the refuse, the rags, the parings; The baggage, the trash, the fragments, the sharings; The odd ends, the crumbs, the driblets, the chippings; The patches, the pieces, the broklets, the drippings; The flittance, the scrapings, the wild wai[f]s and strays; The skimmings, the gubbings of booties and preys; The gleanings, the casualties, the blind escheats; The forging of forfeit[s], the scape of extreats; Th' excess, the waste, the spoils, the superfluities; The windfalls, the shreddings, the fleecings, the petty fees; With a thousand things more, which she may right well lack— Would fill all these same purses that hang at my back. Yea! and ten times as many more bags as these, Which should be but a flea-biting for her to lese; That, if I may have the grace and hap to blind her, I doubt not, a sweet lady I shall find her. To her it were nothing; yet, many a small maketh a great; And all things would help me whatever I may geat: Full little know men the great need that I am in. Do not I spend daily of that that I do win? Then, age cometh on; and what is a little gold To keep a man by drede that is feeble and old? No man, therefore, blame me though I would have more: The world waxeth hard, and store, (they say), is no sore. Now, the chance of thieves, in good hour be it spoken— Out, alas! I fear I left my coffer open. I am surely undone! alas! where be my kays? It is gone, that I have sweat for all my live-days! Woe worth all whoreson thieves, and such covetous knaves! That, for their winding sheet, would scrape men out of their graves!

Adulation. Oh, noble Insolence! if I could sing as well, I would look in heaven among angels to dwell. Insolence. Sing! now, do I sing but as other many do? Adul. Yes, an angel's voice ye have, to hearken unto. Insol. Yea! but what availeth that to high dignity? Oppression. By His arms! not a whit, as far as I can see! Insol. Or, what helpeth that thing to set a man aloft? Oppr. By His wounds! not a straw; so have I told you oft. Adul. No! but ye are one of such goodly personage, Of such wit and beauty, and of sage parentage, So excellent in all points of every art— Insol. Indeed, God and nature in me have done their part— Adul. That, if ye will put yourself forward to the most, Ye may, throughout the whole land, rule all the roste— How say you, Oppression? is it not even so? Oppr. Thou sayest sooth, Adulation! so might I go: If he were disposed to take the charge in hand, I warrant him a chive to rule all the whole land. Adul. So, Master Insolence! ye hear Oppression? Insol. I thank both him and thee, good Adulation! And long have I dreamed of such an enterprise; But how, or where to begin, I cannot devise. Oppr. Wherefore serve friends, but your enterprise to allow? Adul. And then must you support them, as they must maintain you. Oppr. And, wherefore do friends serve, but to set you in? Adul. Ye shall have all my help whenever ye begin. Insol. But we may, herein, nothing attempt, in no wise, Without the counsel of our founder, Avarice. Adul. He must direct all this gear by his holy ghost. Oppr. For he knoweth what is to be done in each coast; He knoweth where, and how that money is to be had— And, yonder he cometh! methinketh more than half mad!

Avarice. It was a fair grace that I was not undone clean; Yet my key was safe locked under mine locks, I ween. But e'en, as against such a thing my heart will throb, I found knaves about my house, ready me to rob. There was such tooting, such looking, and such prying; Such hearkening, such stalking, such watching, such spying. "What would ye, my masters?" "We look after a cat." "What make ye hereabout?" "We have smelled a rat." Now, a weal on such noses! thought I, by and by, That so quickly can scent where hidden gold doth lie. But had I not come when I did, without all fails, I think they had digged up my walls with their nails! Insol. Let us speak to him, and break his chafing talk. Avar. Such greediness of money among men doth walk That, have it they will, either by hook or by crook! Oppr. Let us call to him that he may this way look. Avar. Whether by right, or by wrong, in faith! some care not: Therefore, catch that catch may, hardely, and spare not! Adul. All hail our founder and chief, Master Avarice! Avar. The devil is a knave, an I catch not a flyce. Adul. When ye see your time, look this way, your friends upon! Avar. I doubt not to scamble and rake as well as one. Adul. Here be that would fain be disciples of your art. Avar. I will not be behind to get a child's part. Adul. Now, if ye have done, I pray you look this way back. Avar. Who buzzeth in mine ear so? what? ye saucy Jack! Adul. Are ye yet at leisure, with your good friends to talk? Avar. What, clawest thou mine elbow, pratling merchant? walk! Ye flatterabundus, you! you flearing clawback, you! You the-crow-is-white, you! you the-swan-is-black, you! You John-hold-my-staff, you! you what-is-the-clock, you! You ait-aio you! you negat-nego you! Adul. I marvel you speak to me in such fashion. Avar. Why troublest thou me then in my contemplation? Adul. I came of right good love, not minding you to let. Avar. Thou ne'er camest to any man of good love yet. Adul. And these men's minds it was I should so do. Avar. As false wretches as thine own self, and falser too! Insol and Oppr. We have been loving to you, and faithful alway. Avar. For your own profits, then; and not mine, I daresay; And e'en, veray! you three it was, and others none, That would have robbed me, not yet half an hour gone. Insol., Oppr., Adul. We never robbed any man, later or rather. Avar. Yes, many a time and oft, your own very father. Oppr. And to you have we borne hearty favours alway. Avar. And, I warrant you hanged for your labours one day. Oppr., Adul. And, as our god, we have alway honoured you. Avar. And, e'en as your god, I have aye succoured you. Oppr. We call you our founder, by All Holy Hallows! Avar. Founder me no found'ring; but beware the gallows! Insol. I pray you leave these words, and talk friendly at last. Avar. Content! at your request, my fame is now well past; And, in faith! what saith our friend, Adulation? Adul. I wonder at your rough communication, That ye would to me use words of such vehemence. Avar. Faith, man! I spake but even to prove your patience, That if thou hadst grunted or stormed thereat. Adul. Nay! few times do I use such loud manner as that. Avar. Come! shake hands! for ever we two be at one. Adul. As for grudge in me, there shall never remain none. Avar. Now, Master Insolence! to your ghostly purpose! Insol. We accorded a matter to you to disclose. Avar. I understand all your agreement and accord; For, I laid in your bosoms when ye spake the word; And I like well the advice of Oppression, And eke of Flattery, for your progression. Insol. If there were matter whereon to work, I care not. Avar. Ye shall have matter enough; be doing, spare not! Insol. What! to come to honour and wealth for us all three? Avar. Ah then! ye could be content to leave out me! Insol. No! for I know ye can, for yourself well provide. Avar. Yea! that I can; and for twenty hundred beside. Adul. Oh, would Christ, good founder! ye would that thing open. Avar. Bones, knave! wilt thou have it ere it can be spoken? Oppr. For the passion of God! tell it us with all speed! Avar. By the cross, not a word! here is haste made indeed. Insol. Yes, good, sweet Avarice! dispatch, and tell at once! Avar. Nay then, cut my throat! ye are fellows for the nonce— Will ye have a matter before it can be told? If ye will have me tell it, ye shall your tongues hold. Whist! silence! not a word! Mum! let your clatter cease! Are ye with child to hear, and cannot hold your peace? So sir! now Respublica, the lady of estate, Ye know, now lately, is left almost desolate. Her wealth is decayed; her comfort clean ago; And she at her wit's end what for to say or do. Fain would she have succour, and easement of her grief; And highly advance them that would promise relief; Such as would warrant her spirits to revive Might mount to high estate, and be most sure to thrive. Insol. So! Adul. Well said! Oppr. Ha! Avar. What is this hum, ha, hum? Insol. On forth! Adul. Go too! Oppr. Tell on! Avar. Body of me! Adul. Mum! Avar. What say ye? Insol. Haik! Adul. Tuff! Oppr. Hem! Avar. Who haiken, tuffa, hum—what say ye? Oppr. Nothing! Insol. Not a word? Avar. Nor you, neither? Adul. Mum! Avar. Did ye speak or not? Insol. No! Oppr. No! Adul. No! Avar. Nor yet do not? Insol. No! Oppr. No! Adul. No! [Oppr. No! Insol. No! Adul. No! Avar. That, that, that! that, that, that! Sir, I intend Dame Respublica t'assail; And, so to creep in to be of her counsel; I hope well to bring her in such a paradise That herself shall sue me to have my service; Then shall I have time and power to bring in you three. Oppr. Do this out of hand, founder! and first, speak for me; Bring me in credit that my hands be in the pie: An I get not elbow room among them, let me lie. Avar. Nay! see an Oppression, this eager elf, Be not since more covetous than covetous self! Soft! be not so hasty, I pray you, Sir! soft awhile! You will over the hedge ere ye come at the stile. Oppr. I would fain be shouldering and rumbling among them. Avar. Nay! I will help javels as shall wrong them. Adul. I pray you, good founder! let not me be the last. Avar. Thou shalt be well placed where to thrive very fast. Adul. I thank you, Master Avarice! with all my heart. Avar. And when thou art in place, see thou play well thy part. When ye claw her elbow, remember your best friend; And let my commendations be ever at one end. Adul. I warrant you! Insol. And what! shall [I] be left clean out? Avar. No, sir! ye shall be chief to bring all things about; Ye shall among us have the chief pre-eminence; And we to you, as it were, owe obedience: Ye shall be our leader, our captain, and our guide; Then must ye look aloft, with hands under the side. I shall tell Respublica ye can best govern: Be not ye, then, squeamish to take in hand the stern. Then shall we assist you, as friends of perfect trust, To do and to undo, and command what ye lust, And, when you have all at your own will and pleasure, Part of your livings to your friends ye may measure; And punish the proudest of them that will resist. Oppr. He that once winceth shall feel the weight of my fist. Adul. Yea! we must all hold and cleave together like burrs. Avar. Yea! see ye three hang and draw together like furze. Oppr. And so shall we be sure to get store of money Sweeter than sugar! Avar. Sweeter than any honey! Insol. Very well spoken! this gear will right well accord. Adul. Did not I say ye were worthy to be a lord? Avar. I will make Insolence a lord of high estate. Insol. And I will take upon me well, both early and late. Oppr. But, Insolence! when ye come to the encroaching of lands, Ye may not take all alone into your hands; I will look to have part of goods, lands, and plate. Insol. Ye shall have enough, each body after his rate. Adul. I must have part, too; ye must not have all alone. Insol. Thou shalt be laden till thy shoulders shall crack and groan. Adul. I pray you, let me have a good lordship or two. Insol. Respublica shall feed thee till thou wilt say, ho! Adul. And I must have good manor places, two or three. Insol. But the chief and best lordship must remain to me. Oppr. Mass! and I will look to be served of the best; Or else some folk, somewhere, shall sit but in small rest. Insol. I must have castles and towns in every shire. Adul. And I, change of houses—one here, and another there. Insol. And I must have pastures, and townships, and woods. Oppr. And I must needs have store of gold and other goods. Insol. And I must have change of farms, and pastures for sheep; With daily revenues my lusty port for to keep. Avar. I would have a bone here, rather than a groat, To make these snarling curs gnaw out each other's throat! Here! be eager, whelps! lo! to it Boy! box him Ball! Poor I may pick straws; these hungry dogs will snatch all. Oppr. Each man snatch for himself; by gosse! I will be sped. Avar. Lack who lack shall: Oppression will be corn fed! Is not Dame Respublica sure of good handling When these whelps, ere they have it, fall thus to scambling? And me, their chief founder, they have e'en since forgot. Insol. Thou shalt have gold and silver enough to thy lot: Respublica hath enough to fill all our laps. Adul. Then, I pray you, sir! let our founder have some scraps! Avar. Scr[a]ps? ye doltish lout! feed you your founder with scraps? If you were well served your head would have some raps. Adul. I spake of good will. Insol. Nay, fight not, good Avarice! Oppr. What any of us getteth, thou hast the chief price. Avar. Then, whatever ye do, ye will remember me? Insol. Oppr. Adul. Yea! Avar. Well, so do then; and I forgive you all three. Insol. But, when do we enter, every man his charge? Avar. As soon as I can spy Respublica at large I will board her; and, I trow, so win her favour That she shall hire me, and pay well for my labour. Then will I commend the virtues of you three That she shall pray and wish under our rule to be; Therefore, from this hour, be ye all in readiness! Oppr. Doubt not of us! thou seest all our grediness. Insol. If it be at midnight, I come at the first call.

Adul. Do but whistle for me, and I come forth withal. Avar. That is well spoken; I love such a toward twig.

Adul. I come, founder! Avar. That is mine own good spaniel, Rig— And come on! back again, all three! come back again! Insol. Our founder calleth us back. Oppr. Return then, amain.

Avar. Come on, sirs, all three! And first to you, best be trust: What, is your brainpan stuffed withal? wool or sawdust? Adul. Why so? Avar. What is your name? Adul. Flattery! Avar. E'en so, just! Adul. Yea! or else Adulation, if you so lust: Either name is well known to many a body. Avar. An honest mome! ah, ye dolt! ye lout! ye noddy! Shall Respublica hear your commendation By the name of Flattery or Adulation? Or, when ye commend me to her, will ye say this: Forsooth! his name is Avarice or Covetise? And you, that should have wit, is't your discretion Bluntly to go forth, and be called Oppression? And you, Insolence! do ye think it would well frame If ye were presented to her under that name? Insol. I thought nothing thereupon, by my halidom! Oppr. My mind was another way, by my christendom! Adul. That thing was le[a]st part of my thought, by Saint Denis! Avar. No marry! your minds were all on your halfpenny. But, my masters! I must on mine honesty pass, And not run on 'head, like a brute beast or an ass. For is not Oppression eachwhere sore hated? And is not Flattery openly rebated? And am not I, Avarice, still cried out upon? Adul. Yes! I could have told you that, a great while agone; But I would not displease you. Avar. And you, Insolence! I have heard you ill-spoken of a great way hence. Adul. In my conscience! the devil himself doth love you. Avar. But changing your ill-name, fewer shall reprove you— As I, mine ownself, where my name is known Am right sore assailed, to be overthrown. But doing, as I will now, counterfeit my name, I speed all my purposes, and yet escape blame. Insol. Let us then have new names, each man, without delay. Avar. Else will some of you make hanging stuff one day. Oppr. Thou must new christen us. Insol. First, what shall my name be? Avar. Faith, sir! your name shall be Mounsire Authority. Oppr. And, for me, what is your determination? Avar. Marry, sir! ye shall be called Reformation. Adul. Now, I pray you, devise for me an honest name. Avar. Thou art such a beast, I cannot, for very shame! Adul. If ye think good, let me be called Policy. Avar. Policy—a rope ye shall! nay, Hypocrisy! Adul. Fie! that were as slanderous a name a[s] Flattery. Avar. And I keep for myself the name of Policy. But, if I devise for thee, wilt thou not shame me? Adul. Nay! I will make thee proud of me; or, else, blame me! Avar. Well, then, for this time, thy name shall be Honesty. Adul. I thank you, Avarice! Honesty, Honesty! Avar. Avarice, ye whoreson! Policy, I tell thee! Adul. I thank you, Policy! Honesty, Honesty! How say you, Insolence? I am now Honesty. Avar. We shall at length have a knave of you, Honesty! Said not I, he should be called Mounseer Authority? Adul. Oh, friend Oppression! Honesty, Honesty! Avar. Oppression? ha! is the devil in thy brain? Take heed! or, in faith! ye are Flattery again. Policy! Reformation! Authority! Adul. Hypocrisy! Defamation! and Authority! Avar. Hypocrisy? ha! Hypocrisy? ye dull ass! Adul. Thou named'st Hypocrisy even now, by the Mass! Avar. Policy, I said; Policy! knave Policy! Now say as I said. Adul. Policy, knave! Policy! Avar. And what callest thou him here? Adul. Defamation! Avar. I told thee he should be called Reformation. Adul. Very well! Avar. What is he now? Adul. Deformation!

Avar. Was ever the like ass born, in all nations? Adul. A pestle on him, he comes of the Asians. Avar. Come on! ye shall learn to solfe Reformation! Sing on now: Re. Adul. Re. Avar. Refor. Adul. Reformation. Avar. Policy, Reformation, Authority! Adul. Policy, Reformation, and Honesty! Avar. In faith, ye ass! if your tongue make any mo trips, Ye shall both be Flattery and have on the lips. And now, Mounsire Authority! against, I you call; Ye must have other garments; and so must ye all— Ye must, for the season, counterfeit gravity. Insol. and Oppr. Yes! what else? Adul. And I must counterfeit honesty. Avar. And I must turn my gown in and out, I ween; For these gaping purses may in no wise be seen. I will turn it e'en here—come help me, Honesty! Adul. Here, at hand! Avar. Why, how now? play the knave, Honesty! Help! what doest thou now? Adul. I counterfeit Honesty. Avar. Why, then, come thou! help me, my friend Oppression! What help call you that? Oppr. Fit for your discretion! Avar. Oh, I should have said: help, sir Reformation! Oppr. Yea, marry, sir! that is my nomination. Avar. And when you are [in] your robe, keep it afore close. Oppr. I pray you, Master Policy! for what purpose? Avar. All folk will take you, if they peep under your gown, For the veriest caitiff in country or town. Now, go! and when I call, see that ye ready be! Insol. I will. Oppr. And I will. Adul. And so will I, Honesty!

Avar. Well, now will I depart hence, also, for a space; And, to bourd Respublica, wait a time of grace. Wherever I find her a time convenient, I shall say and do that may be expedient!

Resp. Lord! what earthly thing is permanent or stable? Or, what is all this world but a lump mutable? Who would have thought that I, from so florent estate, Could have been brought so base as I am made of late? But, as the waving seas do flow and ebb by course, So all things else do change to better and to worse. Great cities and their fame, in time, do fade and pass; Now is a champion field where noble Troy was. Where is the great Empire of the Medes and Persians? Where be th' old conquests of the puissant Grecians? Where Babylon? where Athens? where Corinth so wide? Are they not consumed with all their pomp and pride? What is the cause hereof? man's wit cannot discuss; But, of long continuance, the thing is found thus. Yet, by all experience, thus much is well seen: That, in commonweals, while good governors have been, All thing hath prospered; and, where such men do lack, Commonweals decay, and all things do go back. What marvel then, if I, wanting a perfect stay, From most flourishing wealth be fallen in decay? But, like as by default, quick ruin doth befall, So may good government at once recover all.

Avar. Alas, my sweet bags! how lank and empty ye be; But, in faith and troth, sirs! the fault is not in me. Resp. Well, my help and comfort, oh Lord! must come from Thee. Avar. And my sweet purses here, I pray you all, see, see! How the little fool[s] gasp and gape for gromwell-seed! Resp. If it be Thy will, Lord! send some redress with speed. Avar. But, in faith, good sweet fools! it shall cost me a fall. But I will shortly fill you, and stop your mouths all. Resp. Oh, that it were my hap, on friendly friends to light! Avar. Ha, ha! who is that same, that speaketh yonder in sight? Who is't? Respublica? yea, by the Mary mass! Resp. Then might I be again as well as ere I was. Avar. Hide up these pipes! now, I pray God she be blind; I am half afraid lest she have an eye behind. We must now change our copy: oh, Lord! how I fray, Lest she saw my toys, and heard what I did say! Resp. Is there no good man that on me will have mercy? Avar. Remember now: my name is Master Policy: All thing, I tell you, must now go by Policy. Resp. Hark! methink I hear the name of Policy. Avar. Who calleth Conscience? here am I, Policy! Resp. I pray you come to me, if you be Policy! Avar. Yea, forsooth! yea, forsooth! my name is Policy. Resp. I am sore decayed through default of Policy. Avar. Yea, most noble Respublica! I know that well; And do more lament it than any tongue can tell. For, an if good Policy had had you in hand, Ye had now been the wealthiest in any land: But good Policy hath long been put to exile. Resp. Yea, God wot! ye have been barred from me a great while. Avar. Yea! I have been put back, as one clean off-shaken; And, what can a man do till he be forth taken? Resp. Well, I feel the lack of your helping hand, by the rood! Avar. Alack, noble lady! I would I could do you good. Resp. Yes, Policy! ye might amend all, if you lust. Avar. Yea, faith! I durst put myself to you of trust. But, there be enough that, for you, could shift make. Resp. Yet, none like to you! if you would it undertake— And I will put myself wholly into your hands: Metal, grain, cattle, treasure, goods and lands— Avar. Well! I will take some pain; but this to you be known: I will do it, not for your sake, and not for mine own. Resp. How say ye that, Policy? Avar. This to you be known: I will do all for your sake, and not for mine own. Resp. I thank you, Policy! Avar. Nay, I thank you, lady! And I trust ere long to ease all our malady— Well, ye put yourself now wholly into my hands? Resp. Order me as you will. Avar. Treasure, goods, and lands? Resp. Yea, every whit! Avar. Well! I thank you once again. But, now that you may think my dealing true and plain, And, because one cannot do so well as many, Ye must associate me with mo company: And first, by my will, ye shall set up Honesty. Resp. Marry! with all my very heart—but where is he? Avar. Very hard to find: but I think I could fet him. Resp. Call him straightways hither! see that nothing let him! Avar. It were best if I shall go fet men for the nonce; To make but one viage, and bring them all at once. Resp. Whom more than him? Avar. Ye must stablish Authority. Resp. That must needs be done. Avar. And eke Reformation— We four will rule things of another fashion. Resp. Policy! I pray you go fet all these straightway. Avar. Yes! for this your present case may bide no delay. I will go and come with all festination. [Exeat. Resp. I like well this trade of Administration: Policy for to devise for my commodity; No person to be advanced but Honesty; Then Reformation, good wholesome laws to make; And Authority see the same effect may take; What commonweal shall then be so happy as I? For this, (I perceive), is the drift of Policy.

And, behold! where he is returned again since: He showeth himself a man of [much] diligence.

Adul. I will do her double service to another! Avar. Ye double knave, you! will ye never be other? Adul. She shall have triple service of me, Honesty. Avar. Ye quadrible knave! wi[ll] ye ne'er use modesty? Thou drunken whoreson! dost thou not see nor perceive Where Respublica stands, ready us to receive? Resp. What talk have they yonder, among themselves together? Adul. I have spied her now, shall I first to her thither? Avar. Soft! let me present you. Resp. I ween they be in fear— Policy, approach! and bring my good friends near. Avar. Come on, my dear friends! and execute with good will Such office as each of you shall be put until. Dame Respublica it is that for you hath sent. Come on, friends! I will you unto her grace present. Insol. [and] Oppr. To serve her, we are pressed with heart and whole intent. Avar. Madame! I have brought you these men for whom I went. Resp. Policy! I thank you; ye have made speedy speed; Therefore, ye be double welcome, and welcome friends, indeed! Avar. Madame! your grace to serve we all are fully bent. Adul. And, Madame! ye shall find me double diligent. Resp. That is spoken of a good heart: but who be ye? Adul. Forsooth, Madame! my name is Master Honesty. Resp. Honesty? well said! Avar. Madame! this is Honesty. Adul. Yea, forsooth! and please your grace, I am Honesty. Avar. Madame, he is for you: on my word, regard him! Resp. Yes, and with large preferment I will reward him. Adul. I thank your grace; and, I will, for you, take such pain That, ere I deserve one, ye shall give me twain. Avar. Honesty! your tongue trippeth! Resp. How said ye? take such pain— Adul. That ere ye give me one, I will deserve twain— By your licence, Madame! to take away this mote. Avar. Nay! Honesty will not see a wem on your coat. Now unto you I commend Reformation. Resp. Of him is no small need now, in this nation. Oppr. Well, now that ye bid me abuses to redress, I doubt not all enormities so to repress, As shall redound to your wealth and honour at length. Resp. Thereto shall authority aid you with his strength. Avar. Yea! for Authority to govern is most fit. Insol. If ye, Dame Respublica! do me so admit, I doubt not to hamper the proudest of them all. Resp. And among you, destroy Avarice! Adul. Hem! Insol. and Oppr. We shall! Resp. Vanquish Oppression and Adulation! For those three have nigh wrought my desolation. Avar. Hem, sirs! hem! there, keep your gowns close afore, I say! Have ye forgotten now what I told you one day? There is another, too, that would be chased hence. Resp. Who is that? Avar. Lucifer's son, called Insolence. Resp. Ye say truth, and many naughty ones mo than he. Insol. and Oppr. If ye dare trust us! Insol. All! Oppr. All shall reformed be! Resp. I thank you; and, I trust you for my maintenance, To be administere[d] for your good governance. Insol. Then, without fear or care, ye may yourself repose. Oppr. And let us alone with all such matters as those. Resp. Then, I leave you here, on our affairs to consult.

Insol. When you please, in God's name! Oppr. We must both sift and bolt. Adul. She is gone. Avar. Well then, sirs! let us make no delay; But, about our market depart, each man his way. Adul. Nay! first let us sing a song to lighten our hearts. Avar. Then are ye like, for me, to sing but of three parts. Can Avarice['s] heart be set on a merry pin, And see no gain, no profit at all coming in? Insol. We shall have enough to drive away all sorrow. Avar. Then sing we On bowne viage! and Saint George thee borrow! [Cantent: "Bring ye to me and I to ye," etc. et sic exeant.

Resp. The good hope, that my masters have put me in, To recover ruin that in me doth begin, Hath so recomforted my spirits and mine heart, That I feel much easement of my great grief and smart, Now, I do less wonder that lost men, life to save, Far from land do labour, against the roaring wave; For hope, I see, hath mighty operation Against the mortal sting of drooping desperation. Now, if I might but hear what Policy hath wrought, Or some one good thing that my friends to pass had brought, I would put no doubts but all thing should soon be well— Lo! where cometh Honesty: he will the truth tell.

Adul. Three hundred pound by year, and a good manor place— Well, it is metely well, in so short time and space! More will come right shortly; this gear doth gaily walk. Bones! here is Respublica, what use I such ta[l]ke? I seek lady Respublica! Resp. Lo, I am here! And welcome, Honesty! what do my friends most dear? Adul. Certes, Madame! we rest nor day, nor night, nor hour, [To] practise and travail for your wealth and honour. But, O Lord! what a prudent man is Policy! What a deep head he hath to devise and to spy! Resp. He is fine, indeed! Adul. Also Reformation— How earnest he is in his operation! Resp. I think of him no less. Adul. Now, then, Authority, The stoutest in his office that ever I did see— I will no farther praise them, Madame! for, doubtless, They far surmount all praise that my tongue can express: Ye may bless the time ye met with such as they be; And I do my poor part. Resp. I doubt not, Honesty! And condign reward shall ye all have for your pain. Adul. I have scarce an house wherein myself to maintain. Resp. Honesty shall not lack. Adul. I do not crave nor care; We shall take but scraps and refuse, that ye may spare; We will not encroach the people's commodity; We shall take only that may come with honesty. Resp. Christ's blessing have ye! but, lo! yonder cometh People. Adul. I had thought as soon to have met here Paul's steeple!

People. Where's Rice-Puddingcake? I pray God she be in heal. Adul. Who? Rice-Puddingcake? People. Yea! alise dicts commonweal. Adul. I know her not. People. Mass! you liest valeslie in your heart! She is this way, che wa'r't—a false harlot you art! Adul. I know Respublica. People. Yea, marry! where is she? Adul. She is busy now. People. Mass! ere ich go, chill her zee, For this way she came. Resp. Let my people come to me! Adul. God forbid, else! Come on, People! is this same she? People. Yea, malkin is't! Resp. People! what would you with me now? People. Marry, mustress, madame, my lady! how do you? Resp. Even so so, People! I thank you with all my heart: And I hope for better. People. Then let poor volk ha zome part; Vor we ignoram people, whom itch do perzent, Wer ne'er zo i-polld, zo wrong, and zo i-torment. Lord Jhese Christ, when he was i-pounst and i-pilate, Was ner zo i-trounst, as we have been of years late. Adul. How so? who hath wrought to you such extremity? People. Nay! to tell how zo passeth our captivity. Resp. It passeth any man's imagination. People. You zai zouth; it passeth any man's madge mason; Vor we think ye love us well as e'er ye did. Resp. My love towards you, my people, cannot be hid. People. And we think ye would we zelie poor volk did well. Resp. And better than e'er ye did; if how, I could tell. People. And we think ye would we zelie poor volk should thrive. Resp. Yea, doubtless, as any like creature alive! Adul. What need ye of her good will, towards you, to doubt? People. Peace, thou, with zorow! and let me tell my tall owt. Resp. Say on, my good People! let me hear your mind. People. Bum vai! we ignoram people beeth not zo blind But we passeive there falleth of corn and cattle, Wull, sheep, wood, lead, tin, iron and other metal, And of all things, enough vor good and bad, And as commediens vor us, as e'er we had; And yet, the price of everything is zo dear, As though the ground did bring vorth no such, nowhere. Resp. Indeed! I have enough, if it be well ordered; But few folk the better, if I be misordered. People. Nay! now you zai zouth; e'en this same way goeth the hare: Ill ordering 'tis hath made both you and we threadbare. Adul. What naughty folks were they? can you their names read? People. Yea! that I scan; a whole mess of om for a need. There is vorst and vormost Flattery—ill a thee! A slipper, sugar-mouthed whorecop, as can be. He fleareth on you, and beareth us fair in hand; And, therewhile, robbeth both you and we of our land. Then cometh the sour, rough, crabbed child Oppression: He tumbleth whom a lust out of possession. Then is there the third—I scannot member his name— What call ye this same, fellows!—God give them a shame— That beeth still climbing up aloft for promidence, And cannot be content with their state! Adul. Insolence? People. Yea, this same is he, Zoriless! Resp. Nay, Insolence! People. Well, he'll roil all the roast alone, cha hard it zaid; Or else, make the best of them aghast and afraid. And zuch good men as could, and would, order you well, He is so copped, he will not suffer to mell. If they will not be rold, then hence, out of favour; [Yea, and per]haps corrupt om zore vor their labour! Yet he, and th' other twain work all after the vice Of cha-forget-tone-name, t'other is Covetise. This hungry whorecop hath such a policate wit, That he teacheth them to rake and scrape up each whit. And zo these vowre—but it shall never come out for me— Volk think will never cease to spoil both you and me. Vor, sometime they face us, and call us peason knaves; And zwareth: God's bones! they will make us all slaves. Therevore, chwas besirance your ladydom to zee, And to give you warning. Resp. Hear ye this, Honesty? People. Well, and God amend all, and a be zo good a clerk— Resp. Hear ye this, Honesty? People. —though tinkers should lack work. Resp. I am put in comfort all shall shortly amend— Adul. It is in good way already; else, God defend! Resp. Lo, People! hearest thou this? be of good cheer! People. Yea! ich hear his vair words: but what beeth we the near? Resp. People! understand ye that this is Honesty? People. Where a be, trow? mass! cha zeen zome as zmothe as he, Have be a trial, be vound valse flatterers to be. Resp. I take this man for no such: this is Honesty! People. A gay smoult smirking whorecop 'tis; zo mot I thee! Resp. Well, credit my words, People! this is Honesty. People. When Is[e] find it, chil believe it! Resp. 'Tis Honesty! People. I scry him mercy, then! Resp. He and Authority, Joining with Policy and Reformation, Travail to restore th' old wealth to this nation. People. Whough! then chil wa'r't all within two years as plenty As 'twas any time within these years twice twenty: But how may we know, and see, that this thing is true? Adul. Ye shall prove, at length, by th' effect that shall ensue. People. Nay! and we shall alway be served but with shales; Then chil believe, e'en still, that vain words beeth but tales. Adul. The thing, already, to such forwardness is brought, That much to your benefit is already wrought. People. Yea? what any good act have ye already done? Adul. It is but young days yet; things are but now begun: The fruit of our doings cannot so soon appear. But, People! ye shall feel it within seven year: Ye know it is no small work, from so great decay— Resp. People! he saith truth. Adul. —to set all in good stay. Therefore, be ye quiet, and hope for a good end! People. Yes! chil tarry laisure, and take what God shall send. Resp. Then, People! let us twain depart in quietness; For, this talking here may hinder their business. People. Come on! I chil wait avore you, and be your man.

Adul. And I will to my fellows as fast as I can. Be they gone? farewell, they! God send them both the pip! But, in faith, People! I will have you on the hip; I will be even with you for your broad carping— Ah, ye peasant wretch! on us four to be harping! And yet, must we our matters handle discreetly; Or else, I fear, it will end not very sweetly. But now, I would Avarice, or else Insolence, Or Oppression were here rather than sixpence. And lo, where Avarice cometh! a wolf in the tale, (As the proverb saith)—what doth he after him hale?

Avar. Come on, sweet bags of gold! come on, with a good will! I, on you so tender, and ye so froward still? Come forward, I pray you, sweet bags! ah, will ye so? Come! or I must draw you, whether ye will or no. I know your desire; ye would fain be in my chest— When the belly is full, the bones would be at rest! Be content, awhile! I will couch you all up soon Where ye shall not be spied, neither of sun nor moon. What now, brother Honesty! what pry ye this way? Is there anything here that is yours—can ye say? Look off from my bags! it is a pretty matter: Ye can see no green cheese but your teeth will water! Adul. In nomine Patris, hast thou got all this sens? Avar. Why, thinkest thou I have sat idle since I went hence? Nay! I have filled my little purses too, each one. Adul. Hast thou so indeed? thou art a fellow alone. Avar. With old angelots and Edwardes I think I have. Come forth! how say ye, sir? peep out, ye little knave! How think you by this bunting? is he full or no? And his fellows all, doth not their skin stretch for woe? Now these little buttons, no bigger than two nuts, Have they not played gluttons, and filled well their guts? Adul. But look! who cometh yonder, puffing and tuffing? Avar. Come the devil, if him lust, staring and snuffing!

Oppr. In all my whole life was I never wearier. Avar. Come near, on God's half! the mo knaves, the merrier! Where have ye lost your breath? in some coffer diving? Oppr. Shouldering among them for a piece of a living. Adul. And what, are you now in any good hope to thrive? Oppr. Faith! if I lust, I may wear mitres four or five; I have so many half bishoprics, at the least. Adul. By th' arms of Calais! then am I a very beast. Avar. Why, what hast thou gotten to thy share in this space? Adul. Three hundred pound by the year, and one manor place. Avar. Ah, the passion of God! three hundred pound! and no more? Adul. Is not that fair for him that had nothing before? Avar. What, three hundred pound by years! call thee Honesty? Call thee a knave! thou shamest our fraternity! Three hundred pound! if some man had been in thy room, A thousand pound a year, ere this time, might have come. Three hundred pound a year! against our next meeting Get more! or, I shall give a homely greeting. Adul. He here hath flitched the bishoprics already. Avar. Yea! I can him thank; he hath been somewhat speedy. Oppr. But yet have I left many a good gobbet loose: Change thou for the rest! give a feather for a goose! Adul. Didst thou with any one of them make such exchange? Oppr. Yea! I almost left them never a farm nor grange. I told them, Respublica at their wealth did grutch; And, the fifth penny they had was, for them, too much. So Authority and I, did with them so chop That we left the best of them a threadbare bishop. To some we left one house, to some we left none; The best had but his see place, that he might keep home. We informed them, and we deformed them; We conformed them, and we reformed them! Adul. And what gave ye them in your permutations? Oppr. Bare parsonages of appropriations, Bought from Respublica, and first emprowed; Then at the highest extent to bishops allowed, Let out to their hands for fourscore and [nineteen] year. Avar. Lo, cousin Honesty! lo! do ye hear this gear? Faith! your marsship will thrive at the latter Lammas! Adul. I now grant myself to have been a very ass; But all is not yet gone, in case I have good luck. Oppr. No! there is yet enough left for a better pluck. For some of them were aged, and yet would not die; And some would, in nowise, to our desires apply. But we have rods in piss for them everyone, That they shall be fleeced, if we reign, one by one. Avar. And how did all frame with our Mounsire Authority? Oppr. At length he won the full superiority. Adul. But the rude gross People at him repineth sore; And against us, all four, with a wide throat doth he roar. But soft! peace! methinketh I hear him hem and hake; If we meet here, all four, we shall some order take.

Insol. What, mine old friends, all three? by my truth, sirs, well found! Adul. and Oppr. Faith, sir! most heartily welcome into this ground. Insol. Bones! what have we here? Avar. Aha! Insol. Bags of money, I trow! Avar. Have we? Nay! I have; but none for you, that I know! Lo, sir! thus might an honest man come to his harms; I will lie down on them, and keep them in mine arms. Insol. Hast thou got all this? I myself have not so much. Avar. Then have ye whole towns and castles; I have none such. Yet will ye not deny, I judge, in my fancy, That ye got them by the drift of me, Policy. Insol. I confess that. Oppr. All my lands are scarce so much worth. Avar. They were less when I, Policy, first set you forth. Adul. He hath purses with gold; would I had so many! Avar. It were pity that such a goose should have any. Your good marsship appointed me to crumbs and scraps; But Policy will live by his neighbours, perhaps! But thus, I see, you would poll me, an ye wist how; Therefore, I will go hoard it, I make God a vow! I will make it sure under mine doors and mine locks; And, who but looketh that way, shall sit in nine stocks! Insol. Nay! first declare to us how thou didst all this get. Avar. For your learning I will you a spectacle set; But first get ye from me, and stand a good way hence; This shall not lie within your reach, by your licence! Nay, yet farther! lest ye take my bags for bloodings; For, such hungry dogs will slab up sluttish puddings. Adul. Is it well now? Avar. Yea! now hardely stand there still, And the names of my bags to you declare I will. First and foremost, this bag is my very clear gain Of leases encroached, and forthwith sold again. This bag is mine interest of this year's usury; And this is of matters bolstered up with perjury. This is bribes above my stipend in office; This fifth I have by selling of benefices. This is my rents that my clerks yearly render me, To be and continue in office under me. This same I got by sectorship of my mother— A vengeance on her, old witch, for such another! This bag have I kept of other sectorships whole, Which the mad knaves would have scattered by penny dole. This is of church goods, scraped up without a law; For which was as quick scambling as ever I saw: Of their plate, their jewels, and copes, we made them louts, Stopping People's barking with linen rags and clouts. They had th' altar cloths, th' albs, and amices, With the sindons in which were wrapt the chalices. This ninth hath beguiled the king of his custom; This tenth of selling counterfeit wares hath come. Now this eleventh is of tallow, butter, cheese, Corn, rawcloths, leather—by stealth sent beyond seas. This twelfth is of grain, bell-metal, tin and lead— Conveyed out by creeks when Respublica was in bed. This thirteenth I filled through facing out of daws, Both from lands and goods, by pretence of the laws. Thus, these thirteen small jobs are mine by Policy; All men must shift for a poor living honestly. If e'er I bestow them it shall be, the next Lent, To the prior of Prickingham and his co[n]vent. Adul. Well now, we may come near; may we not, if we lust? Avar. Ye are near enough: out of my reach I dare you trust. Adul. Well now, let us sing, if it please Authority; To refresh our spirits it is restority. Insol. I reck not, for company sake, to sing once [more]. Avar. I have less mind to sing now than I had before: Then had I no lust to sing, because I was bare; And now, how to keep that I have got, I do care. Oppr. Solace we must needs have, when that we are weary. Adul. It prolongeth life of man to be merry. Avar. An if ye sing so much, Honesty! without fail, Christ and you, at length, I fear, will make a battle. But go to! sing on! if there be no remedy— An ye look at my bags ye mar my melody. Cantent: "Hey, nony, nony, ho for money!" etc. Oppr. Now, about profit devise we ourselves abroad. Avar. Yea, and hear ye, masters! while time is, lay on load! Consider! ye have but a time of haymaking; And harvest is not mowed without painstaking. Now, time will not tarry; and, therefore, take good heed! Despatch while time serveth, and all your matte[r]s speed! Time hath no rein nor bridle, but renneth apace! Insol. Mark Policy's words, sirs! excellent in our case. Avar. And time hath this one ungracious property: To blab at length, and open all that he doth see. Then, a daughter eke he hath, called Verity; As unhappy a long-tongued girl as can be: She bringeth all to light; some she bring[eth] to shame; She careth not a groat what man hath thank or blame. If men be praiseworthy, she doth so declare them; And, if otherwise, in faith! she doth not spare them. Oppr. We will feather our nests ere time may us espy; Or Verity have power, our doings to descry. Avar. Remember this verse: Ut sint omnia salva, Fronte capillata, post hec occasio calva. Oppr. Make me understand that fine rag of rhetoric! Avar. Lo! here a fine fellow to have a bishopric! A verse of Latin he cannot understand; Yet, dareth he presume, boldly to take in hand, Into a deanery or archideaconry to chop; And to have the livelood away from a bishop! Oppr. A mercy! show thy verse, and leave this persuasion! Avar. Forsooth, sir! it was of the goddess Occasion! She weareth a great long tuffet of hair before; And, behind, hath not one hair, neither less nor more! Whereby is taught you that, when Occasion is, Ye must take it betime, or of your purpose miss. Adul. Then, while Occasion doth now serve so well, I pray you, give ear to one thing that I must tell. Insol. and Oppr. What is that? Adul. Mounsire! if ye hear People mumbling, Ye must storm, and sharply take him up for stumbling. Ye would not think what he said, a little while since, Of us, to Respublica, in mine own presence! Insol. When I meet them next I shall tell them both my mind. Avar. And Policy, to help you, will not be behind. Adul. Gentle Respublica was soon pacified; But People was sturdy, and would not be qualified. Avar. Alas! good, poor, silly soul! bear her fair in hand, And ye may win her, as you lust, to use her land. Oppr. But of goddess Occasion one little more. Avar. Marry, sir! even as I would have said before: She standeth with winged feet on a rolling wheel, To take flight or any grass may grow on her heel. And, even while we stand, jangling in this presence, I dare say she is flown twice twenty score mile hence. Oppr. Yea? Cock's bones! then adieu! Insol. Farewell! Adul. And I am gone!

Avar. Faith! and have after, as fast as I can, anon! Now, my godamighties! as I did hither tug you, So will I, on my back, to your lodging lug you; And sure, if ye can be quiet there, and lie still, I will shortly bring you mo fetlows; so I will. I have a good benefice of an hundred marks: It is small policy to give such to great clerks: They will take no benefice but they must have all— A bare clerk can be content with a living small! Therefore, Sir John Lack-Latin, my friend, shall have mine; And, of him, may I farm it for eight pounds or nine. The rest may I reserve to myself for mine own share; For, we are good feeders of the poor, so we are! And we patrons are bound to see, (I do you tell), The church patrimony to be bestowed well. Other odd corners, besides these, I have many; Which, with all good speed shall increase your comp[any]. Come on now, therefore! in faith! I do great wrong To promise you lodging, and keep you thence so long. [Exeat.

Resp. O, Lord! what may it mean to be thus borne in hand; And yet, none amendment to feel, nor understand? People doth daily and hourly to me resort, Challenging my promise of relief and comfort. I report to him, as my rulers do to me: People still affirmeth that they devourers be. The more I do him cheer, the more he doth despair. I say, his wealth doth mend; he saith, it doth appair, What should I judge of this? may it be credible, Or, by any reason, may it be possible That such four as those, in whom I have put my trust, Showing such face of friendship, should be men unjust? I will know if People feel yet any redress Of his former sores, and of his rueful distress. We shall meet soon, I doubt not, and talk together.

And lo! as I would wish, he approacheth hither.

Resp. Well met, People! what place go ye now unto? People. I cham at the farthest to zee how you do. We twain must oftwhiles come physic either other; Vor, we beeth your children, and you beeth our mother. Resp. And how do you mend now, in your thrift and your purse? People. As zour ale in summer; that is, still worse and worse! Resp. People, what should I say? People. Nay, mass! I scannot tell: But we ignorams all would fain ye should do well. And how feel you yourself? better than ye did, trow? Resp. Till God send better hap, rather decay than grow: This bringeth me in a conceipt of jealousy— Rather than much good would I speak with Policy. People. Was not he drowned, trow, last year, when Conscience was? Resp. I see him yonder appear; this cometh well to pass. People. Is this same he? Resp. Yea! People. An ich heard not you zo zai Chould zware a had be dead, or else clean run away!

Avarice. O most noble lady! that I have not, of late, Made to you relation how ye stand in state, Hath not been of negligence, nor to wo[r]k by stealth; But of my deep studies, devising for your wealth. Resp. To hear the truth thereof, I wished you to see. People. Doth you stud your brains, mas gentman!—pray you tell me!— For our lady Ricepudding-cake's commodity? Avar. I devise what I can for the prosperity Of this Lady Respu[b]lica and her people. People. That lie, ere this, is flown as far hence as Poule steeple! I spray God, ye stud not, as cha hard of zome elves That study for the common profit of their own selves! Avar. To study for both your wealths, I am a debtor. People. Vay, then! as good ne'er a whit, as ne'er the better. Avar. I do nothing but compass therefore, without doubt. People. I vay, then! thee vent too far a compass about, Vor zome good might ha' be doon in all this season. Avar. So there is, if to perceive it ye had reason! Resp. Truly! I feel myself, hitherto, worse and worse. People. And I svele the same, both in my ground and my purse; Vive or zix year ago chad vowre kine to my pale; And, at this prezent hour, cham scarce worth a good cow tail; And that time chad a widge, and her vole and ten sheep; Now, I scan geat nothing, myzelf and my wife to keep. Then an chad, I be with the king's mass constable, Chould zet myself vorth prettily, and zo chwas able; Now, vor lack of a sallet, when my liege hath need, Cham vain to take an hat of God's good on my head. And vor God!—my dame, this is but small amendment! I scomport me to you: how thinketh your judgment? Compassing? ka! gentman! call ye this same compassing? And, whom shall we twain thank? you, for this compassing? Avar. No, sir! People. Now, by the compass that God compassed! Resp. Blame have they of God and man, that this compassed! People. A small compass more, now, may zoon compass, by th' rood! To make fowerty thousand volks hair grow through their hood! Avar. That is their own fault; not the fault of Policy. Resp. God above, He knoweth whose fault it is, and not I. People. But did not ich, daily, give you warning? Resp. Doubtless! People. And did not ich plain me to you? Resp. I grant no less! People. And when ich made my mone, what would [ye] me tell? Resp. As my hope was; that, at length, all thing should be well. People. Compassing? ka! Resp. People! I put trust in other. People. Valse bezeivers of zembity, by God's mother! Avar. Well, suffer me then, for my declaration, To set Authority and Reformation; That ye may both hear, and charge them as well as me. Resp. With all my heart, good Policy! let it so be. I pray you call them hither, if they may be got. People. Anch hear om; I scan tell whe'er they say true or not!

Avar. The foulest open-mouthed wretch that e'er ye heard! Insol. Could thou, by no means, make the peasant afeard? Avar. No! but anon, I trow! we shall his masship trim— Convey her away; and then all we three chide him. But, whist! and come apace! Resp. I hear Policy's voice. Avar. That I met you, so well, I do much rejoice: Lady Respublica! would you come her before? Insol. Madame, God ye save! Oppr. And preserve for ever more! Resp. This is happy hap ye come so soon together? Avar. As I went I met them, both twain, hasting hither. Resp. Never in better time! Insol. Madame! what is your will? Oppr. Is there any thing that you would say us until? Resp. People crieth out, and I am much aggrieved That we feel ourselves in nothing yet relieved. Oppr. No? that is not true; many declare I can— Resp. Even in brief words, I pray you, do it than. People. Pray you let me spose with this same new come gentman. Insol. No, sir! People. Mass! but chil speak anch can spy my time whan? Oppr. First, your priests and bishops have not as they have had. Resp. [When] they had their livings, men were both fed and clad. Oppr. Yea! but they ought not, by scripture, to be called lords. Resp. That they rule the church, with scripture well accords. Oppr. They were proud and covetous, and took much upon them. People. But they were not covetous that took all from them! Oppr. The coin also is changed. People. Yea! from silver to dross— 'Twas told us vor the best: but poor we bear the loss! When chad with zwet of brows got up a few small crumbs, At paying of my debts ich could not make my sums. My landlord, vor my corn, paid me zuch sums and zuch; When he should ha't vor rent, it was but half zo much. Zix pence in each shilling was i-strike quite away; Zo, vor one piece ich took, che was vain to pay him tway. One would think 'twere brass, and zorow have I else; But, ich ween most part on't was made of our old bells! Insol. Yet, if ye mark it well, for one piece ye have three; Which, for your People is no small commodity. People. Well, I will meddle in this same matter no more; But Is reck not an 'twere zilver, as 'twas avor. Oppr. People! ye shall, at length, find it all for the best. People. Cha hard our parish clerk say: Diuum este, justlum weste. Resp. Undoubtedly, I feel many things are amiss! People. Yea! I scan tell more things yet, an me lust, by Jis! They have all the woods throughout the realm destroyed, Which might have served long years, being well employed. And then, the great cobs have zo take the rest to hire, That poor volk cannot get a stick to make a fire. Then their great grazing hath made flesh so dear, I wot, That poor volk, at shambles, cannot bestow their groat. Resp. I lament it, People! Alack! what may I do? I, myself, I fear, shall come to ruin too. Policy! what comfort? when will you ease my smart? Avar. Ye are as safe, even now, but for your false heart, As any lady of your name in Christendom. People. If ich had zo zaid, chad lied, by my halidom! Resp. Ye hear what People saith, which feeleth as I do? Avar. But rude People's words, will ye give credit unto? Will ye judge yourself after his foolish [jangling?] Ye were well enough till he began his wrangling. Insol. Will ye believe People, that hath no manner of skill To judge, or to discern what thing is good or ill? He is so headstrong, he must be bridled with laws. People. Though zome be stark bedlams, yet wise volks beeth no daws! Insol. We have oft found People most disobedient To orders most requisite and expedient. Who such a maintainer of wrong opinions As People, in all countries and dominions? Ye ought, therefore, to rebuke him, at all hours, For discouraging any minister of yours. Oppr. Ye must tarry time, ere we can your purpose serve. People. Ye[a], and then, while the grass shall grow, the horse shall sterve. Insol. Do ye not see this, by all experience plain, That men, from diseases recover[ed] again Do, after sickness passed, remain a long time weak? Resp. People, hark! Authority doth good reason speak. Insol. So ye, though oppressed with long adversity, Yet, doubt not! are toward wealth and prosperity. Resp. Lo! People! to hope a while longer shall be best. People. Well, then cham perswaged to do at your inquest. Insol. Madame! mistrust not us, your painful ministers! Avar. Never had lady more watchful officers! Oppr. For my part, I will swear the gospel book upon, That if the laws I have made should, everyone, Redound to mine own singular commodity, They could not be friendlier framed than they be. Insol. Therefore, repose yourself, Madame, awhile, and wink! Ye are in better case toward than you can think. Avar. We shall here remain, and give People good counsel; Quiet for to be, till Policy may prevail. Resp. He will do well with your good informations. People. Yea, vay! chil volow their good exaltations. Resp. Then I leave you all here to God: I will depart.

People. Now, ho! destructions to member in my heart? Avar. Destructions? ye miser! Insol. Ye peasant! Oppr. Ye lout! Insol. [Can ye naught] else do but rage, and rave, and cry out? Oppr. And cannot tell on whom? Avar. No more than can a daw! Oppr. Crow against your betters! Insol. And murmur against the law! Let me hear thee prate as thou hast done heretofore! Avar. Or trouble Lady Respublica any more! Oppr. Thou canst not see, thou wretch! canst thou, when thou art well? Avar. Is't part of thy play with such high matters to mell? Insol. Doth it become thee to bark with such a wide throat? Avar. And to have an oar in everybody's boat? Insol. If thou do so again, it shall with thee be worse. Oppr. We shall wring and pinch thee, both by belly and purse. Insol. I would advise you, friend! to grunt and groan no more. Oppr. Do the like again, and thou shalt rue it full sore! Avar. It were best for you, friend! all murmuring to cease. People. Bum vay, then! chil e'en go home, and vair hold my peace. Insol. Do so by my rede, and fall to honest labour. Avar. Hence home, and be quiet! and thou shalt find favour. People. Then chil bid you varewell! Oppr. No words, but hence, apace! This was done as should be. Avar. This was done in right place. People. But ho! one word erch go; ye'll give volk leave to think? Oppr. No, marry! will we not, nor to look, but wink! People. Yes, by Gis! but chil lo[ok]; nay, lo there! thought is free, And a cat, they zaith, may look on a king, pardy! [Exeat. Insol. Now, where do we be come? I, home! [Exeat. Oppr. And I abroad! [Exeat. Avar. And I must see what feet about my door have trod.

Miser. Wherein appeareth the graciousness of God More than, infinitely to exceed man's goodness, But that He keepeth back the sharp stroke of His rod When man would rage in most furious woodness? Scarce any amends may man's eagerness appease; Yea, and though he forgive, he will not soon forget; Towards true penitence God's wrath forthwith doth cease, And He, their past sins, behind His back doth set. Of long sufferance He is with weakness to bear, While any hope of amendment doth remain; And though He plague sinners, to call them home by fear, Yet His mercy and grace are aye ready again. His grievous displeasure dureth not for ever. And why? quia miserationes ejus; Which to show He chiefly delighteth ever, Manent super omnia opera ejus. It grieveth Him sore when He must needs take vengeance; His delight and glory is mercy to practise; His tender compassion, on true repentance, He hath still, from the beginni[n]g, sought t' exercise. The mass of this world in His mercy did He frame: The sky, earth, and sea His mercy replenished; In His mercy did He after redeem the same, When else, remediless, it must have perished. In His mercy was Israel delivered From the 'gyptian thraldom and captivity; In His mercy the same through the Red Sea was led; And through wilderness to a land of liberty. Sith that time all commonwealths He hath protected; And to such as, with earnest prayer, have made moan, Me, Compassion, He hath amically directed To revive and recover them every one. Now, lastly, hath he heard the most doleful lament Of woeful Respublica, his darling most dear! Therefore me, Compassion, with speed he hath sent, Her most sorrowful heart to recomfort and cheer. I tarry her coming that I may her salute: And lo! methinketh I see her appear in place; Of friendship devoid, and of succour destitute— I will hear her, and then give words of solace.

Resp. O Lord! hast Thou for ever closed up Thine ear? Wilt Thou never more the desolate's prayer hear? Wilt Thou still turn away Thy face from my distress? Wilt Thou clean forsake me and leave me comfortless? The secret sighs, and sobs, and prayers of mine heart, Shall they not forever Thine eyes to me convert? I grant that mine offences have so much deserved; But for whom, save sinners, is this mercy reserved? [Thou reservst it] so, which hitherto hath been just; Despair, Lord! I will not; nor Thy goodness mistrust. Lo[ok] down on my distress! and for Thy glory sake, Though I be ill worthy it, mercy on me take! Miser. Now will I speak to her. Resp. Who maketh me afeard? Miser. No, I will thee comfort: God hath thy prayer heard; And now, Respublica, be of good hope and trust! Resp. O Lord! now do I see that Thou art ever just. Miser. I am sent to recomfort thee, Respublica! Resp. O Lady Compassion! Misericordia! Miser. What say ye to me? What, woman! can ye not speak? I am come down, all your sorrows at once to break. Speak, woman! Resp. Misericordia! Miser. Out, comfortably! Ye shall have now no more cause to speak despairably. Resp. My heart, in God's mercy, is so dilated, That my very spirit to heaven is elated. O Lady Compassion! welcome, verament! Ever be God praised that you, to me, hath sent! Miser. Now that I have put you in sure hope of relief, I must go fet Verity to try out all your grief. Verity shall oper how your decay hath grown; And then, the causers thereof shall be overthrown. Resp. Who be the causers thereof I cannot discern: But yond cometh one of them that do me govern. Miser. What is his name? Resp. Policy! Miser. Policy is good; He doth work you many good things of likelihood. Avar. A vengeance upon him! and God give him His curse! I am besieged now of every cutpurse; I can go nowhere now; in city, neither town, But Piers Pickpurse playeth at organs under my gown. Miser. What talketh he? Avar. Who speaketh yond, Respublica? Resp. What of the pickpurse? Avar. Forsooth, dame Respublica! I said, an we had two pillories mo, 'twere no the worse; For it is a light thing now to meet Piers Pickpurse. God preserve you, right fair lady! and Christ you save! Who are you? and what would ye in this country have? Resp. This same is the Lady Misericordia, Sent from God purposely. Avar. Unto you, Respublica? Miser. Yea! Avar. Then must ye needs be most heartily welcome: We had ne'er more need of you, by my halidom! There be in this country which, but ye comfort [send], Are full like to make both a mad and a short end. Miser. I will go to do that I said, Respublica! And return with speed. Resp. Sweet Misericordia!

Avar. Good Misericordia, now! and lady most dear!— Christ blister on your heart! what make you here? Resp. Come back, Policy! Avar. I come! Resp. Whither would ye now? Avar. Convey myself hence honestly, if I wist how. Resp. When come ye, Policy? what look ye? something lost! Avar. Anon! if I tarry, it will turn to my cost. Resp. Ah, friend, Policy! Avar. Yea! Resp. Now shall I be in bliss. Avar. Thanks to God!—we must find provision for this. Resp. Ha! Avar. Did not I e'er tell you that God would you save? Ye may see now what it is, good rulers to have. Resp. Ye say truth; but look! yonder cometh Honesty. Avar. Pray God, amen! Resp. Yes, look else! Avar. What news bringeth he? Adul. I should speak a word in th' ear of Policy; If I may not so, I will speak it openly. Resp. I have not seen you a great while, Honesty. Adul. O noble Lady Respublica! well you be? Resp. All shall be now, such news I have to me brought. Adul. I hear it told for truth, Policy, all will be nought. Resp. Hearest thou any joyful news abroad, or not? Adul. Yea! I have certain news, which are both brim and hot. There is new start-up, a lady called Verity. Resp. Then am I all safe, and sure of prosperity. How was it spoken? Adul. This is Latin, gross and blunt: Misericordia et Veritas sibi obviaverunt; That is, Mercy and Truth are both met together. Resp. Then will it not be long ere they both come hither. Avar. Hither? how so? Resp. Yea, both Mercy and Verity. Avar. A pestle on them both, saving my charity! But soft, brother Honesty! ye might mistake it: Of which Verity was't, trow you, that they spake it? Adul. Of the general Verity, Old Time's daughter. Avar. Faith! they were not our friends that first hither brought her. Old Time's daughter? that shuttle-brained, tall, long man! That ne'er standeth still, but flyeth as fast as he can, Much like as he swimmed or glided upon ice? Adul. Yea! Resp. For all that, of wise men, he is thought most wise. Avar. I know him; he carrieth a clock on his head; A sand glass in his hand, a dial in his forehead. Resp. Ye say truth, Policy: the same is very he. Avar. Old Time, the eavesdropper: I know him, pardy! An ancient turner of houses upside down, And a common consumer of city and town. Old Time's daughter, (quod he?), I shrew his naked heart! Many of my friends hath he brought to pain and smart. Compassion and that Truth come hither to you? Resp. Mercy, before ye came, promised so right now. Avar. It is no time now, Honesty, to be idle. Adul. Something breweth? Avar. It is time for us to bridle. Well, go your ways, afore, in all haste, Honesty: And tell Reformation and Authority That both these ladies, in all goodly fashion, Must be entertained here in this nation. Madame Respublica! is't not your pleasure so? Resp. What else? in all the haste, Honesty, see ye go: Avar. Say further, that I would we four, anon, might meet Here, or where they will, save in the open street. And hear you, Honesty! Adul. What now? Avar. A little near! Provide in any wise that Verity come not here: Let Insolence and Oppression keep her hence. Adul. We shall, all three, therein do our best diligence. Avar. Bid them well remember the world will wax quaisy; Some of us, ere long, may hap leap at a daisy; Or put out the i of Misericordia, And without an i play e'en plain trussing corda.

Resp. Policy, what is it that ye talk there so long? Avar. I send instructions that they may not do wrong. Resp. Send ye aught to him that may not be told to me? Avar. Should we with ery trifling trifle trouble ye? Well then, ye look for these two ladies, [I am sure]. Resp. I trust they will not fail on me to do their cure. Avar. I told you ever, did I not, that your wealth would frame? Resp. I shall reward your pains: or else I were to blame. Avar. Then best I go now straight to my fellows and see— Resp. That things needful for us may not unready be; Do so, I pray you! Avar. Fare ye well, Respublica, Till I see you next! [Exeat. Resp. Now, Misericordia! When shall be thy pleasure? bring hither Verity? Behold! e'en with the word speaking, where they both be.

Miser. I daresay Respublica thinketh the time long. Ver. Who can blame her, having endured so much wrong? But as meat and drink, and other bodily food Is never found to be so pleasant, nor so good, As when fretting hunger and thirst hath pinched afore; And as health after sickness is sweeter evermore, So, after decay and adversity overcome, Wealth and prosperity shall be double welcome. Miser. How now, Respublica? have I not been long hence? Resp. Come ye first or last, ye bless me with your presence. Miser. As I was commanded, I bring you Verity, To help you, your people, and their posterity. Ver. Dear jewel Respublica! I do you embrace. Resp. I thank your goodness, and submit me to your grace. Miser. Embrace Verity for ever, Respublica, And cleave fast to her! Resp. Yes, Misericordia! Miser. Now please it you to declare, sister Verity! How she may recover her old prosperity; Her honour, her wealth, her riches, her substance, Her commons, her people, her strength, and her puissance. Ver. All this will be recovered incontinent; And, to better state also, by good government. Resp. No lady of my name upon earth, I esteem, Hath had better administers than mine have been: Policy, Reformation, and Authority. Miser. These three be very good. Resp. And the four[th], Honesty. Ver. But what if these, which have had you and yours to keep, Have been ravening wolves in the clothing of sheep? Resp. If I heard not you, Verity, such sentence give, By no man's persuasion I could it believe. Ver. Ah, good Respublica! thou hast been abused; Whom thou chosest are vices to be refused. Whom thou callst Honesty, is Adulation; And he that in pretence was Reformation, Is indeed Oppression and huge violence; Whom thou callst Authority, is proud Insolence; Then he that was Policy, the chief man of price, Indeed is most stinking and filthy Avarice. He first inveigled thee, and his purpose to frame, Cloaked each of these vices with a virtuous name. Resp. Benedicite! is this a possible case? Ver. Ye shall see it proved true before your own face; They shall be convinced before you, one by one. Resp. O Lord! what marvel if my thrift were well nigh gone? But what redress shall I have hereof? and when? Miser. Such as may be most fit, and as soon as we can. Justice and peace are appointed to descend; Th' one to keep you quiet; the other you to defend. As soon as we four sisters together shall be met, An order for your establishment shall be set: By the eternal providence it is decreed so. Resp. O most merciful Lord, all praise be thee unto! Miser. I will leave you here with my sister Verity, And learn of their coming with all celerity. Ver. Ye need not; for I know they be now very near; And, behold! they begin already to appear.

Peace. Now, once again, in God let us two sisters kiss, In token of our joining to make a perfect bliss. Justitia. And now, let us never be sundered any more Till we may Respublica perfectly restore. Ver. Let us meet them, sister Misericordia! Miser. And unto their sight present Respublica. Just., Pax. All hail, most dear sisters, Mercy and Verity! And, all hail, Respublica, with all sincerity! Resp. O ye ladies celestial! how much am I bound With thanks to fall flat before you on the ground, That ye thus vouchsafe a forlorn creature By your heave[n]ly protection to recure. Just. I, Justice, from heaven am come you to visit. Pax. And I, Peace, for ever with you to inhabit. Miser. And all we four sisters, to th' utmost of our power, Shall restore, establish, and defend your honour. Just. We shall first restore your most happy estate, And suppress all them that had made you desolate. Ver. Verity shall all truth open as it is. Just. I, Justice, shall redress whate'er is found amiss. Miser. I, Mercy, where the member may recured be, Shall temper the rigour and slake extremity. Pax. I, Peace, when th' uncurable is clean cut away And th' ill made good, shall flourish for ever and aye. Resp. And I, which cannot otherwise your goodness deserve, Shall your wholesome directions duly observe. And what if Insolence shall come, or Avarice? Ver. Detest them, abhor them, and refuse their service. I doubt not but they will be still haunting hither, Till we four shall them four take here altogether. Miser. Now, sisters! go we, and Respublica with us, To be new apparelled otherwise than thus. Just. Come on, Respublica! with us to wealth from woe: God hath given us in charge that it must be so. Ver. The blissful renovation ye shall reign in Must, from henceforth, now immediately begin.

Avar. Such greedy covetous folk as now-of-days been, I trow, before these present days were never seen; An honest man can go in no place of the street But he shall, I think, with an hundred beggars meet. "Give for God's sake!" "Give for saint Charity!" "Give for our Lady's sake!" "Give for the Trinity!" "Give in the way of your good-speed!" "Give, give!" "Give, give!" Find we our money in the street, do they believe? If I had not a special grace to say Nay, I were but undone amongst them, in one day. But who cometh yond? Honesty? he cometh in haste. Adul. I seek Policy. Avar. Here, boy! Adul. All is in waste! Avar. How so? Adul. We strive against the stream, all that we do. Avar. Wherein? Adul. That Verity come not this place unto. For wot ye what? Avar. I shall when he have spoke the word. Adul. Justice, and Peace too, with full consent and accord Are come down from heaven and have kissed together. Avar. God give grace that they twain also come not hither! Adul. As Mercy and Truth sibi obviaverunt, So Justicia et Pax osculatae sunt. Avar. Is it true? are they come? Adul. And have kissed together. Avar. Then carry in apace for fear of foul weather. Have they kissed together? Adul. Yea! Avar. What needeth that? Men should kiss women—and what point be they at? Adul. All the four sisters, I do you t' understand, Have already taken Respublica in hand. They four progress with her in every border, And mar all that ever we have set in order. Avar. And what doth Insolence, or what saith he to that? Adul. He stampeth, he stareth, and snuffeth sore thereat. Avar. I advise him to storm, and to show himself stout: They be women and perchance may be faced out; And Peace is an honest lady and a quiet. Adul. Verity and Justice are not for our diet. Avar. Then Mercy is a good one; I like her well. Adul. Yet oft turneth she her face away, and will not mell. Avar. Well—fall back, fall edge—I am once at a point, If Respublica come, t' adventure a joint. Adul. She is fresh and gay and flourisheth; who but she? Avar. Who brought it to such pass, will I tell her, but we? Or else, making these new ladies of her weary, We should triumph and reign. Adul. Oh, never so merry! Avar. Well, go to our company, I will remain here; I may perhaps see Dame Respublica appear: I will in hand with her, and make a good face. Adul. And what shall I do? Avar. Give warning, in the mean space, That Insolence shrink not, but play the stout man. Adul. That I know, he will do; for once I know he can. Avar. And that you, all three, be pressed to come hither; When need shall require, we lay our heads together. Why, art thou here yet? Adul. I am gone with all my might.

Avar. And, lo! where Respublica appeareth in sight.

She is now at [hand,] her nymphs bearing up her train; I will stand aside, and listen a word or twain.

Resp. O Lord! Thy mercies shall I sing evermore Which dost so tenderly Thy handmaid restore. But what creature would suspicion have had That my late administers had been men so bad? Or, who would have thought them counterfeits to have been That had heard their words, and their countenance seen? And chiefly Avarice, which did the matter break? Avar. That word toucheth me: now is time for me to speak. Resp. I thought him Policy, as just and true as steel. Avar. I am glad that by me ye do such goodness feel. Resp. And that my wealth did grow, as it hath grown of late. Avar. I ever told ye you should grow to this estate. Resp. Thou tell me? Avar. Yea! I told you so in very deed; And highly I rejoice it doth so well succeed. And salva festa dies upon you, Madame! I am glad ye have got a new robe, so I am: What saint in the calendar do we serve to-day, That ye be so gorgeously decked, and so gay? Resp. In rejoicing that I shall be clean rid of thee. Avar. Nay, by this cross! ye shall never be rid for me. Resp. And of thy compeers. Avar. Well, let them do as they lust! I will ride upon Jill, mine own mare; that is just. Other ways I shall do you service of the best. Resp. Thou wicked wretch! darest thou with me to jest? Avar. What? I now see, honores mutant mores, But, as seemeth here, raro in meliores. Resp. Thee, and all thy service I do from me exile. Avar. Is that the high reward ye promised me erewhile? Is not this a wise woman, and minded to thrive, That would me, Policy, out of the country drive? Resp. Thee and thy complices from me I shall outcast. Avar. Then, I pray you, pay us for our pains that are past. Resp. Ye shall be paid. Avar. Once I have done the best I can; Authority also, he hath played the man; Reformation hath done his part, I can tell. If ye mistrust Honesty, faith! ye do not well. And as for Avarice, he is conveyed quite: I bade him get him hence, or I would him indite. I, Policy, have made him to pluck in his horns: I sware I would else lay him on prickles and thorns, Where he should take no rest, neither day nor night; So he had as lief be hanged as come in sight. Resp. I may say with Job, how vainly do ye cheer me, When all the words ye give, from truth doth disagree; And with the wise man, I may most justly say this: Just[ici]a tamen non luxit in nobis. Or else, with the prophet, in most sorrowful mood, The fruit of our justice is turned into wormwood. Well, the best of you is a detestable vice; And thou, for thy part, art most stinking Avarice. Avar. Jesu! when were you wont so foul-mouthed to be, To give such nicknames? Ah, in faith! dame Verity Hath had you in schooling of late; well, in God's name! I am sorry for you, e'en sorry, that [I am]. I wis I have wrought to set you in good state, And watched for that purpose, both early and late. And I wis, if you would abide my framing, And not thus to have fall to checking and blaming, I would, ere long, of you made such carpenter work That ye should have said, Policy had been a clerk; Nay! you should have seen, how I would have you compact. Resp. Yea, no doubt! ye would have done some great and fine act. Avar. I would have brought half Kent into Northumberland; And Somersetshire should have raught to Cumberland. Then would I have stretched the county of Warwick Upon tenter hooks, and made it reach to Berwick. A piece of the bishopric should have come southward— Tut, tut! I tell you, I had wondrous feats toward. Resp. God hath placed me already in the best wise. Avar. Yea! but yet not half so well as I could devise— But no force; well then, I see ye will none of me? Resp. No! Avar. Then ye can be content I depart from ye? Resp. Yea! Avar. Well! yet and ye pray me, I will tarry still. Resp. No! Avar. Well, speak me fair, and woo me yet, and I will. Resp. No; hence, avaunt! Avar. Have I had of you such a clog, And now [you] bid me avaunt and make me a dog? Resp. Hence, at once! Avar. Nay, tut! and ye will ha' us, ha' us. Resp. Out of my presence! Avar. Well then, ye will not ha' us? Resp. No, avoid, I charge thee! Avar. Then needs depart I must. Adieu! in faith, I would have served ye of trust! But, since Respublica hath put me to exile, Where may I go keep myself secret for a while? Is there never a good chaplain in all this town, That will, for a while, hide me under his gown? Never a good farmer? never a good merchantman? Well, I will go pick out some corner, if I can. But, first will I monish my fellows of this gear; And we stay this plunge, I care not for the next year. [Exeat. Resp. Now will I to Justice and th' other ladies three, And pray that these vices may all suppressed be.

But lo! here cometh People; I will now turn again, And first know of his good state by a word or twain.

Resp. What standeth he prying? dareth he not enter? People. Chould vain zee my lady: but I sdare not venter. Resp. Shrink not back from me, but draw to me, my dear friend! People. Chill virst know an ye be alone, zo God me mend! Resp. Come! here be none but thy friends, me believe. People. Well then, chill be zo bold to peak in, by your leave. Resp. How happeneth that thou hast so long been me fro? People. Marry! chill tell you: as soon as ye were ago, Hither came a zort of courtnals, hard men and zore: They shaked me up, chwas ne'er zo rattled avore. They vell all upon me, catch a word that might catch; Well was him that at me, People, might get a snatch. Chould have been at home rather than a new groat; Ich may zedge to you, Is feared pulling out my throat. They bade me pike me home, and come at you no more. An ich did, they zware, Is should be corrompt therefore. Zo this prowt whorecop—what call ye him? Resp. Insolence! People. Yea! even this same, he vair popt me to silence. Resp. And how is it with you now? better than it was? People. All beginneth now to come gaily well to pass. We hear of your good vortune that goeth about; How ye beeth permounted, which maketh all us prout; And ich am able since to buy a new coat; And, Is thank God, chave in my purse a zilver groat. I wis ich could not zo zai these zix years afore; Whoever caused it, ill thank have they therefore. Resp. They will be here soon; bide you them here for a train. People. Mass! but I ninnat; would ye have om squat out on's brain? Resp. They shall not do thee harm the value of a point. People. Then, an you zai the word ichill jeopard a joint. Resp. If they but offer thee wrong, they shall smart therefore. People. Nay! will ye be zo good to tie om up avore? And what shalche zai to om? Resp. Nothing; but be abate, Till take them all here suddenly I may await.