<P_5>

<heading>

The Most Pleasant and delectable Historie of Iohn Winchcombe , <font>
otherwise </font> called <font> Iacke </font> of <font> Newberie :
</font> (DELONEY-E2-P1,5.3)

and first of his <font> loue and pleasant life . </font>
(DELONEY-E2-P1,5.4)

CHAPTER I . (DELONEY-E2-P1,5.5)

</heading>

In the daies of King Henery the eight that most noble and victorious
Prince , in the beginning of his reigne , <font> Iohn Winchcomb ,
</font> a broad cloth Weauer , dwelt in <font> Newberie , </font> a
towne in <font> Barkshire : </font> who for that he was a man of a
merry disposition , and honest conuersation , was wondrous wel-beloued
of Rich and Poore , especiallie because in euery place where hee came ,
hee would spend his money with the best , and was not at any time found
a churle of his purse . Wherefore beeing so good a companion , he was
called of old and young <font> Iack of Newbery : </font> a man so
generally well knowne in all his countrey for his good fellowship ,
that hee could goe in no place but hee found acquaintance ; by meanes
whereof <font> Iack </font> could no sooner get a Crowne , but straight
hee found meanes to spend it : (DELONEY-E2-P1,5.7)

yet had hee euer this care , that hee would alwaies keepe himselfe in
comely and decent apparell , (DELONEY-E2-P1,5.8)

neither at any time would hee bee ouercome in drinke , but so
discreetly behaue himselfe with honest mirth , and pleasant conceits ,
that hee was euery Gentlemans companion . (DELONEY-E2-P1,5.9)

After that <font> Iacke </font> had long led this pleasant life ,
beeing <paren> though hee were but poore </paren> in good estimation ;
it was his Masters chance to die , and his Dame to bee a Widow , who
was a very comely auncient Woman , and of reasonable Wealth . Wherefore
she hauing a good opinion of her man <font> Iohn , </font> committed
vnto his gouerment {COM:sic} the guiding of all hir Workefolkes , for
the space of three yeares together : In which time shee found him so
carefull and diligent , that all things came forward and prospered
wondrous well . (DELONEY-E2-P1,5.10)

No man could intice him from his businesse all the weeke , by all the
intreaty <P_6> they could vse : Insomuch that in the end some of the
wild youths of the Towne , began to deride and scoffe at him .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,6.11)

Doubtlesse quoth one , I doubt some female spirit hath inchaunted
<font> Iack </font> to hir treadles , and coniured him within the
compasse of his Loome , that hee can stir no further .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,6.12)

You say truth quoth <font> Iack , </font> (DELONEY-E2-P1,6.13)

and if you haue the leisure to stay till the Charme bee done , the
space of sixe dayes and fiue nights , you shall find mee ready to put
on my holy daie apparell , (DELONEY-E2-P1,6.14)

and on Sunday morning for your paines I will giue you a pot of Ale ouer
against the Maypole . (DELONEY-E2-P1,6.15)

Nay quoth another , $I $'ll {TEXT:Ile} lay my life , that as the <font>
Salamander </font> $can $not {TEXT:cannot} liue without the fire , so
<font> Iack </font> $can $not {TEXT:cannot} liue without the smel of
his Dames smocke . (DELONEY-E2-P1,6.16)

And I maruell quoth <font> Iacke </font> , that you beeing of the
nature of the Herring <paren> which so soone as hee is taken out of the
Sea streight dyes </paren> can liue so long with your nose out of the
pot . (DELONEY-E2-P1,6.17)

Nay <font> Iacke </font> leaue thy testing quoth another ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,6.18)

and goe along with vs , (DELONEY-E2-P1,6.19)

thou shalt not stay a iot . (DELONEY-E2-P1,6.20)

And because I will not stay , nor make you a lyer <paren> quoth <font>
Iacke </font> </paren> $I $'ll {TEXT:Ile} keepe me here still :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,6.21)

and so farewell . (DELONEY-E2-P1,6.22)

Thus then they departed , (DELONEY-E2-P1,6.23)

and after they had for halfe a score times tried him to this intent ,
and saw hee would not be led by their lure , they left him to his owne
will . (DELONEY-E2-P1,6.24)

Neuerthelesse , euery Sunday in the afternoone , and euery Holy day ,
<font> Iacke </font> would keepe them companie , and bee as merrie as a
Pie , (DELONEY-E2-P1,6.25)

and hauing still good store of money in his purse one or other would
euer be borrowing of him , (DELONEY-E2-P1,6.26)

but neuer could hee get pennie of it againe : which when <font> Iack
</font> perceiued , he would neuer after carry aboue twelue pence at
once in his purse , (DELONEY-E2-P1,6.27)

and that being spent , hee would streight returne home merily , taking
his leaue of the company in this sort . (DELONEY-E2-P1,6.28)

{COM:verse_omitted}

<P_7>

Thus was <font> Iacks </font> good gouernment and discretion noted of
the best and substantiallest men of the Towne , so that it wrought his
great commendations , (DELONEY-E2-P1,7.31)

and his dame thought herselfe not a little blest to haue such a seruant
, that was so obedient vnto her , and so carefull for her profit ;
(DELONEY-E2-P1,7.32)

for she had neuer a Prentise that yeelded her more obedience then hee
did , or was more dutifull : so that by his good example , he did as
much good as by his diligent labour and trauaile : which his singular
vertue beeing noted by the widow , shee began to cast very good
countenance to her man <font> Iohn , </font> and to use very much talk
with him in priuate : (DELONEY-E2-P1,7.33)

and first by way of communication , shee would tell vnto him what
suters shee had , and the great offers they made her , what gifts they
sent her , and the great affection they bare her , crauing his opinion
in the matter . (DELONEY-E2-P1,7.34)

When <font> Iacke </font> found the fauour to bee his dames Secretarie
, he thought it an extraordinary kindnesse : (DELONEY-E2-P1,7.35)

and ghessing by the yarne it would prooue a good Web , began to
question with his dame in this sort . (DELONEY-E2-P1,7.36)

Although it becommeth not mee your seruant to prie into your secrets ,
nor to bee busie about matters of your loue : yet for so much as it
hath pleased you to use conference with mee in those causes , I pray
you let me intreat you to know their names that bee your sutors , and
of what profession they bee . (DELONEY-E2-P1,7.37)

Marie <font> Iohn </font> saith she that you shall ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,7.38)

and I pray thee take a cushion (DELONEY-E2-P1,7.39)

and sit downe by mee . (DELONEY-E2-P1,7.40)

Dame quoth hee I thanke you , (DELONEY-E2-P1,7.41)

but there is no reason I should sit on a cushion till I haue deserued
it . (DELONEY-E2-P1,7.42)

If thou hast not thou mightest haue done said shee :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,7.43)

but faint souldiers neuer find fauour . (DELONEY-E2-P1,7.44)

Iohn replied , that makes mee indeed to want fauour :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,7.45)

for I durst not trie Maydens because they seeme coy , nor Wiues for
feare of their Husbands , nor Widowes , doubting their disdainfullnesse
. (DELONEY-E2-P1,7.46)

Tush <font> Iohn </font> <paren> quoth shee </paren> hee that feares
and doubts Womankind , $can $not {TEXT:cannot} bee counted Mankind :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,7.47)

and take this for a principle , all things are not as they seeme :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,7.48)

but let vs leaue this and proceed to <P_8> our former matter .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,8.49)

My first sutor dwels at <font> Wallingford , </font> by Trade a Tanner
, a man of good wealth (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.50)

and his name is <font> Craftes , </font> of comely personage , and very
good behauiour , a Widower , well thought of amongst his neighbours :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,8.51)

hee hath proper land , a faire house and well furnished , and neuer a
childe in the world , (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.52)

and hee loues me passing well . (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.53)

Why then Dame quoth <font> Iohn , </font> you were best to haue him .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,8.54)

Is that your opinion quoth shee ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.55)

now trust me , (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.56)

so it is not mine . (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.57)

For I finde two speciall reasons to the contrary : (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.58)

the one is , that hee being ouerworne in yeares makes mee ouerloth to
loue him : and the other , that I know one neerer hand .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,8.59)

Beleeue me dame <paren> quoth <font> Iack </font> </paren> I perceiue
store is no sore , and profered ware is worse by ten in the hundred
than that which is sought : (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.60)

but I pray ye who is your second sutor ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.61)

<font> Iohn </font> quoth shee , it may seeme immodesty in me to bewray
my loue secrets : (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.62)

yet seeing thy discretion , and being perswaded of thy secrecy , I will
shew thee : (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.63)

the other is a man of middle yeares , but yet a Batcheler , by
occupation a Taylor , dwelling at <font> Hungerford : </font> by report
a very good husband , such a one as hath crownes good store ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,8.64)

and to mee he professes much good will , (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.65)

for his person he may please any woman . (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.66)

I dame quoth <font> Iohn </font> , because he pleaseth you .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,8.67)

Not so said she , (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.68)

for my eies are vnpartiall Iudges in that case : (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.69)

and albeit my opinion may be contrary to others , if his Art deceiue
not my eye-sight , hee is worthie of a good wife , both-1 for his
person and conditions . (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.70)

Then trust mee Dame <paren> quoth <font> Iohn </font> </paren> for so
much as you are without doubt of your selfe that you will proue a good
wife , and so well perswaded of him , I should thinke you could make no
better a choice . (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.71)

Truly <font> Iohn </font> <paren> quoth shee </paren> there be also two
reasons that mooue me not to like of him : (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.72)

the one , that being so long a ranger , he would at home be a stranger
; (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.73)

and the other , that I like better of one nearer hand .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,8.74)

Who is that , quoth <font> Iacke </font> ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.75)

Saith shee , the third Suter is the Parson of <font> Spinhome-land ,
</font> who hath a proper liuing , (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.76)

hee is of holy conuersation and good estimation , whose affection to me
is great . (DELONEY-E2-P1,8.77)

<P_9>

No doubt Dame <paren> quoth <font> Iohn </font> </paren> you may doe
wondrous well with him , where you shall haue no care but to serue God
and to make ready his meats . (DELONEY-E2-P1,9.79)

O <font> Iohn </font> <paren> quoth shee </paren> the flesh and the
spirit agrees not ; (DELONEY-E2-P1,9.80)

for hee will bee so bent to his books , that he will haue little minde
of his bed : (DELONEY-E2-P1,9.81)

for one moneths studying for a Sermon , will make him forget his wife a
whole yeer . (DELONEY-E2-P1,9.82)

Truely Dame <paren> quoth Iohn </paren> I must needes speake in his
behalfe , and the rather for that he is a man of the Church , and your
neere neighbour , to whom <paren> as I guesse </paren> you beare the
best affection : (DELONEY-E2-P1,9.83)

I doe not thinke that hee will bee so much bound to his booke , or
subiect to the spirit , but that he will remember a woman at home or
abroad . (DELONEY-E2-P1,9.84)

Well <font> Iohn </font> <paren> quoth she </paren> I wis my minde is
not that way , (DELONEY-E2-P1,9.85)

for I like better of one nearer hand . (DELONEY-E2-P1,9.86)

No maruell <paren> quoth <font> Iacke </font> </paren> you are so
peremptorie seeing you haue so much choice : (DELONEY-E2-P1,9.87)

but I pray ye Dame <paren> quoth he </paren> let me know this fortunate
man that is so highly placed in your fauour ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,9.88)

<font> Iohn </font> <paren> quoth shee </paren> they are worthy to
knowe nothing , that $can $not {TEXT:cannot} keepe something :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,9.89)

that man <paren> I tell thee </paren> must goe namelesse :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,9.90)

for he is Lord of my loue , and King of my desires :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,9.91)

there is neither Tanner , Taylor , nor Parson may compare with him ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,9.92)

his presence is a preseruatiue to my health , his sweete smiles my
hearts solace , and his words heauenly musike to my eares .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,9.93)

Why then Dame <paren> quoth Iohn </paren> for your bodies health , your
hearts ioy , and your eares delight , delay not the time ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,9.94)

but entertaine him with a kisse , (DELONEY-E2-P1,9.95)

make his bed next yours , (DELONEY-E2-P1,9.96)

and chop vp the match in the morning . (DELONEY-E2-P1,9.97)

Well , quoth shee , I perceiue thy consent is quickly got to anie ,
hauing no care how I am matcht so I bee matcht : (DELONEY-E2-P1,9.98)

I wis , I wis I could not let thee goe so lightly , beeing loath that
any one should haue thee , except I could loue her as well as my selfe
. (DELONEY-E2-P1,9.99)

I thanke you for your kindnesse and good will good Dame quoth hee ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,9.100)

but it is not wisedome for a young man that can scantly keepe himselfe
, to take a wife : (DELONEY-E2-P1,9.101)

therefore I hould it the best way to leade a single life :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,9.102)

for I haue heard say , that manie sorrowes followe mariage , especially
where want remaines : (DELONEY-E2-P1,9.103)

and beside , it is a hard matter to finde a constant woman :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,9.104)

for as young maides are fickle , so are old women iealous :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,9.105)

the one a griefe too common , (DELONEY-E2-P1,9.106)

the other a torment intolerable . (DELONEY-E2-P1,9.107)

<P_10>

What <font> Iohn </font> <paren> quoth she </paren> consider that
maidens ficklenesse proceedes of vaine fancies , but old womens
iealousie of superabounding loue , and therefore the more to bee borne
withall . (DELONEY-E2-P1,10.109)

But Dame , quoth hee , many are iealous without cause :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,10.110)

for is it sufficient for their mistrusting natures to take exceptions
at a shadow , at a word , at a looke , at a smile , nay at the twinkle
of an eye , which neither man nor woman is able to expell ?
(DELONEY-E2-P1,10.111)

I knewe a woman that was readie to hang her selfe , for seeing but her
husbands shirt hang on a hedge with her maides smocke .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,10.112)

I grant that this furie may haunt some , quoth shee ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,10.113)

yet there be many other that complaine not without great cause .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,10.114)

Why , is there any cause that should moue iealousie , quoth <font> Iohn
</font> ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,10.115)

I by S. <font> Mary </font> is there quoth she : (DELONEY-E2-P1,10.116)

for would it not grieue a woman <paren> being one euery way able to
delight her husband </paren> to see him forsake her , despise and
contemne her , being neuer so merrie as when he is in other company ,
sporting abroad from morning till noone , from noone till night ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,10.117)

and when he comes to bed , if hee turne to his wife , it is in such
solemnesse , and wearisome drowsie lamenesse , that it brings rather
lothsomnesse than any delight : (DELONEY-E2-P1,10.118)

can you then blame a woman in this case to bee angrie and displeased ?
(DELONEY-E2-P1,10.119)

$I $'ll {TEXT:Ile} tell you what , (DELONEY-E2-P1,10.120)

among brute beasts it is a griefe intolerable : (DELONEY-E2-P1,10.121)

for I heard my Grandame tell that the Bel-weather of her flocke
fancying one of the Eawes aboue the rest , and seeing <font> Gratis
</font> the Shepheard abusing her , in abhominable sort <paren>
subverting the lawe of Nature </paren> could by no meanes beare that
abuse ; (DELONEY-E2-P1,10.122)

but watching opportunity for reuenge , on a time found the said
Shepheard sleeping in the field , (DELONEY-E2-P1,10.123)

and suddenly ranne against him in such violent sort , that by the force
of his wreathen hornes , hee beat the braines out of the Shepheards
head and slewe him . (DELONEY-E2-P1,10.124)

If then a Sheepe could not endure that iniurie , thinke not that women
are so sheepish to suffer it . (DELONEY-E2-P1,10.125)

Beleeue mee <paren> quoth <font> Iohn </font> </paren> if euery
horne-maker should be so plagued by a horned beast , there should bee
less hornes made in <font> Newberie </font> by many in a yeare .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,10.126)

But Dame <paren> quoth hee </paren> to make an end of this prattle ,
because it is an argument too deepe to be discussed betweene you and I
, you shal heare me sing an ould song , (DELONEY-E2-P1,10.127)

and so wee will depart to supper . (DELONEY-E2-P1,10.128)

{COM:verse_omitted}

<P_11>

Well said Iohn <paren> quoth she </paren> (DELONEY-E2-P1,11.131)

thy song is not so sure , (DELONEY-E2-P1,11.132)

but thy voice is as sweet : (DELONEY-E2-P1,11.133)

but seeing the time agrees with our stomackes , though loth yet will
wee giue ouer for this time , and betake our selues to our suppers .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,11.134)

Then calling the rest of her seruants , they fell to their meate
merrily , (DELONEY-E2-P1,11.135)

and after supper , the Goodwife went abroad for her recreation , to
walke awhile with one of her neighbours . (DELONEY-E2-P1,11.136)

And in the meane space <font> Iohn </font> got him vp into his chamber
, (DELONEY-E2-P1,11.137)

and there began to meditate on this matter , bethinking with himselfe
what hee were best to doe : (DELONEY-E2-P1,11.138)

for well he perceiued that his Dames affection was great towarde him :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,11.139)

knowing therefore the womans disposition , and withall that her estate
was reasonable good , and considering beside that he should finde a
house ready furnished , seruants readie taught , and all other things
for his trade necessarie , he thought it best not <P_12> to let slip
that good occasion , least hee should neuer come to the like .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,12.140)

But againe , when hee considered her yeares to bee vnfitting to his
youth , and that she that sometime had beene his Dame , would <paren>
perhaps </paren> disdaine to be gouerned by him that had beene her
poore seruant , that it would proue but a badde bargaine , doubting
many inconueniences that might growe thereby , hee therefore resolued
to be silent rather than to proceed further : wherefore hee got him
straight to bed , (DELONEY-E2-P1,12.141)

and the next morning settled him selfe close to his businesse .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,12.142)

His Dame comming home and hearing that her man was gone to bed , tooke
that night but small rest , (DELONEY-E2-P1,12.143)

and early in the morning hearing him vp at his worke merrily singing ,
shee by and by arose , (DELONEY-E2-P1,12.144)

and in seemely sort attyring her selfe , she came into the worke-shop ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,12.145)

and sat her downe to make quills . (DELONEY-E2-P1,12.146)

Quoth <font> Iohn , </font> Good morow Dame , (DELONEY-E2-P1,12.147)

how do you to day ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,12.148)

God a mercie <font> Iohn </font> <paren> quoth shee </paren> euen as
well as I may : (DELONEY-E2-P1,12.149)

for I was sore troubled in my Dreames . (DELONEY-E2-P1,12.150)

Mee thought two Doues walked together in a corne field , the one
<paren> as it were </paren> in communication with the other , without
regard of pecking vp any thing to sustaine themselues :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,12.151)

and after they had with many nods spent some time to their content ,
they both fell hard , with their pretie bils , to pecke vp the
scattered corne , left by the wearie Reapers hand .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,12.152)

At length <paren> finding themselues satisfied </paren> it chaunced
another Pigion to light in that place , with whome one of the first
Pigions at length kept companie : (DELONEY-E2-P1,12.153)

and after , returning to the place where she left her first companion ,
perceiued he was not there , (DELONEY-E2-P1,12.154)

shee kindly searching vp and downe the high stubble to finde him ,
lighted at length on a hogge fast asleep , wherewith me thought the
poore Doue was so dismaid , that presently shee fell downe in a trance
. (DELONEY-E2-P1,12.155)

I seeing her legges faile , and her wings quiuer , yeelding her selfe
to death , moued with pittie ranne vnto her , (DELONEY-E2-P1,12.156)

and thinking to take vp the Pigion , mee thought I had in my hands my
owne heart , wherein me thought an arrow stucke so deepe , that the
bloud trickled downe the shaft , and lay upon the feathers like the
siluer pearled deawe on the greene grasse , which made me to weepe most
bitterly . (DELONEY-E2-P1,12.157)

But presently mee thought there came one to me crowned like a Queene ,
who tould mee my heart would die , except in time I got some of that
sleeping hogges grease to heale the wounds thereof . Whereupon I ranne
in all haste <P_13> to the Hog with my heart bleeding in my hand , who
<paren> mee thought </paren> grunted at mee in most churlish sort , and
vanisht out of my sight . Whereupon comming straite home , me thought I
found this Hog rustling among my Loomes , wherewith I presently awaked
, sodainely after midnight , beeing all in a sweate and very ill :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,13.158)

and I am sure you could not choose but heare mee groane .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,13.159)

Trust mee Dame I heard you not <paren> quoth <font> Iohn </font>
</paren> I was so sound asleepe . (DELONEY-E2-P1,13.160)

And thus <paren> quoth shee </paren> a woman may die in the night
before you will haue the care to see what shee ailes , or aske what she
lackes . (DELONEY-E2-P1,13.161)

But truly Iohn <paren> quoth she </paren> all is one ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,13.162)

for if thou shouldest haue come , thou couldest not haue got in ,
because my chamber door was lockt : (DELONEY-E2-P1,13.163)

but while I liue this shall teach mee wit , (DELONEY-E2-P1,13.164)

for henceforth I will haue no other lock but a latch , till I am
married . (DELONEY-E2-P1,13.165)

Then Dame <paren> quoth he </paren> I perceiue though you bee curious
in your choise , yet at length you will marrie . (DELONEY-E2-P1,13.166)

I truly <paren> quoth shee </paren> so thou wilt not hinder me .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,13.167)

Who I quoth <font> Iohn </font> ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,13.168)

on my faith Dame not for a hundred pounds , (DELONEY-E2-P1,13.169)

but rather will further you to the uttermost of my power .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,13.170)

Indeede <paren> quoth she </paren> thou hast no reason to shew any
discurtesie to me in that matter , although some of our neighbours do
not stick to say , that I am sure to thee alreadie .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,13.171)

If it were so <paren> quoth <font> Iohn </font> </paren> there is no
cause to denie it , or to bee ashamed thereof , knowing my selfe farre
vnworthie of so high a fauour . (DELONEY-E2-P1,13.172)

Well let this talke rest quoth shee , (DELONEY-E2-P1,13.173)

and take there thy quils , (DELONEY-E2-P1,13.174)

for it is time for me to goe to market . (DELONEY-E2-P1,13.175)

Thus the matter rested for two or three dayes , in which space she
daily deuised which way shee might obtaine her desire , which was to
marrie her man . (DELONEY-E2-P1,13.176)

Many things came in her head , and sundrie sleights in her minde ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,13.177)

but none of them did fit her fancie , so that shee became wondrous sad
, and as ciuill as the nine <font> Sibbels </font> ;
(DELONEY-E2-P1,13.178)

and in this melancholie humour she continued three weekes , or a moneth
, till at last it was her lucke upon a <font> Bartholmew </font> day
<paren> hauing a Fayre in the towne </paren> to spie her man <font>
Iohn </font> giue a paire of Gloues to a proper maide for a Fayring ,
which the maiden with a bashfull modestie kindly accepted , and
requited it with a kisse : which kindled <P_14> in her an inward
iealousie : (DELONEY-E2-P1,14.179)

but notwithstanding very discreetly shee couered it ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,14.180)

and closely past along vnspied of her man or the maid .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,14.181)

Shee had not gone farre but shee met with one of her sutors namely the
Taylor , who was verie fine and briske in his apparell ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,14.182)

and needes hee would bestow the wine upon the Widow :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,14.183)

and after some faint deniall , meeting with a Gossip of hers , to the
Tauerne they went , which was more curtesie than the Taylor could euer
get of her before , shewing her selfe verie pleasant and merrie :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,14.184)

and finding her in such a pleasing humour , the Tailor after a new
quart of wine renewed his old sute : (DELONEY-E2-P1,14.185)

the Widow with patience heard him , (DELONEY-E2-P1,14.186)

and gently answered , that in respect of his great good will long time
borne vnto her , as also in regard of his gentlenesse , cost and
curtesie , at that present bestowed , shee would not flatly denie him .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,14.187)

Therefore <paren> quoth shee </paren> seeing this is not a place to
conclude of such matters ; if I may intreate you to come to my poore
house on Thursday next , you shall be heartily welcome , and be further
satisfied of my minde : (DELONEY-E2-P1,14.188)

and thus preferred to a touch of her lips , hee payed the shot
(DELONEY-E2-P1,14.189)

and departed . (DELONEY-E2-P1,14.190)

The Taylor was scant out of sight , when shee met with the Tanner : who
albeit hee was aged , yet lustily he saluted her ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,14.191)

and to the wine she must , (DELONEY-E2-P1,14.192)

there was no nay . (DELONEY-E2-P1,14.193)

The Widow seeing his importunacie , calles her gossip ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,14.194)

and along they walked together . (DELONEY-E2-P1,14.195)

The olde man called for wine plentie , and the best cheere in the house
: (DELONEY-E2-P1,14.196)

and in hartie manner hee biddes the Widow welcome .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,14.197)

They had not sitten long , but in comes a noyse of Musitions in tawnie
coates , who <paren> putting off their caps </paren> asked if they
would haue any Musicke . (DELONEY-E2-P1,14.198)

The Widow answered no , they were merrie enough .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,14.199)

Tut quoth the oldeman , (DELONEY-E2-P1,14.200)

let vs heare good fellowes what you can doe , (DELONEY-E2-P1,14.201)

and play mee <font> The beginning of the World . </font>
(DELONEY-E2-P1,14.202)

Alas , quoth the widow , you had more need to harken to the ending of
the world . (DELONEY-E2-P1,14.203)

Why Widowe , quoth hee , I tell thee the beginning of the world was the
begetting of Children : (DELONEY-E2-P1,14.204)

and if you find mee faultie in that occupation , turne mee out of thy
bed for a bungler , (DELONEY-E2-P1,14.205)

and then send for the Sexton . (DELONEY-E2-P1,14.206)

Hee had no sooner spoke the word , but the Parson of Speen with his
corner cap , popt in at the doore , who seeing the widow sitting at the
table craued pardon and came in . (DELONEY-E2-P1,14.207)

<P_15>

Quoth shee , for want of the Sexton , heere is the Priest if you need
him . (DELONEY-E2-P1,15.209)

Mary <paren> quoth the Tanner </paren> in good time ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,15.210)

for by this meanes wee need not goe farre to bee married .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,15.211)

Sir quoth the Parson , I shall doe my best in conuenient place .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,15.212)

Wherein , quoth the Tanner ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,15.213)

To wed her my selfe quoth the Parson . (DELONEY-E2-P1,15.214)

Nay soft , sayde the Widow , one Swallow makes not a Sommer , nor one
meeting a marriage : (DELONEY-E2-P1,15.215)

as I lighted on you vnlookt for , so came I hither vnprouided for the
purpose . (DELONEY-E2-P1,15.216)

I trust quoth the Tanner , you came not without your eyes to see , your
tongue to speake , your eares to heare , your hands to feele , nor your
legs to goe . (DELONEY-E2-P1,15.217)

I brought my eyes , quoth she , to discerne colours , my tongue to say
No to questions I like not , my hands to thrust from me the things that
I loue not , my eares to judge twixt flatterie and friendship , and my
feet to run from such as would wrong me . (DELONEY-E2-P1,15.218)

Why then quoth the Parson by your gentle abiding in this place , it is
euident that here are none but those you like and loue .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,15.219)

God forbid I should hate my friends <paren> quoth the widow </paren>
whom I take all these in this place to bee . (DELONEY-E2-P1,15.220)

But , there be diuers sorts of loues , quoth the Parson .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,15.221)

You say truth , quoth the Widow : (DELONEY-E2-P1,15.222)

I loue your selfe for your profession , and my friend the Tanner , for
his curtesie and kindnesse , and the rest for their good company .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,15.223)

Yet <paren> quoth the Parson </paren> for the explaining of your loue ,
I pray you drinke to them you loue best in the company .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,15.224)

Why <paren> quoth the Tanner </paren> haue you any hope in her loue ?
(DELONEY-E2-P1,15.225)

Beleeue me <paren> saith the Parson </paren> as much as another .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,15.226)

Why then Parson sit downe , said the Tanner : (DELONEY-E2-P1,15.227)

for , you that are equall with mee in desire , shall surely be halfe
with mee in the shotte : (DELONEY-E2-P1,15.228)

and so Widow , on Gods name fulfill the Parsons request .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,15.229)

Seeing <paren> quoth the widow </paren> you are so pleasantly bent , if
my courtesie might not breede contention betweene you , and that I may
haue your fauour to shewe my fancie , I will fulfill your request .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,15.230)

Quoth the Parson , I am pleased howsoeuer it bee .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,15.231)

And I , quoth the Tanner . (DELONEY-E2-P1,15.232)

Why then <paren> quoth shee </paren> with this cup of Claret wine and
Sugar , I heartily drinke to the Ministrels boy .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,15.233)

<P_16>

Why , is it hee you loue best , quoth the Parson ?
(DELONEY-E2-P1,16.235)

I haue reason , sayd shee , to like and loue them best , that will bee
least offended with my doings . (DELONEY-E2-P1,16.236)

Nay Widow <paren> quoth they </paren> wee meant you should drinke to
him whom you loued best in the way of marriage . (DELONEY-E2-P1,16.237)

Quoth the Widow , you should haue sayd so at first :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,16.238)

but , to tell you my opinion , it is small discretion for a woman to
disclose her secret affection in an open assembly :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,16.239)

therefore , if to that purpose you spake , let mee intreat you both to
come home to my house on Thursday next , where you shall be heartily
welcome , and there be fully resolued of my mind :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,16.240)

and so , with thankes at this time , $I $'ll {TEXT:Ile} take my leaue .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,16.241)

The shot being paid , and the Musitians pleased , they all departed ,
the Tanner to <font> Wallingford , </font> the Parson to <font> Speen ,
</font> and the widow to her own house : where in her wonted solemnes
shee settled her selfe to her businesse . (DELONEY-E2-P1,16.242)

Against Thursday shee drest her house fine and braue ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,16.243)

and set her selfe in her best apparell : (DELONEY-E2-P1,16.244)

the Taylor nothing forgetting his promise sent to the Widowe a good fat
Pigge , and a Goose . (DELONEY-E2-P1,16.245)

The Parson beeing as mindfull as hee , sent to her house a couple of
fat Rabbets and a Capon : (DELONEY-E2-P1,16.246)

and the Tanner came himselfe (DELONEY-E2-P1,16.247)

and brought a good shoulder of Mutton , and halfe a dozen Chickens ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,16.248)

beside hee brought a good gallon of Sacke , and halfe a pound of the
best sugar . (DELONEY-E2-P1,16.249)

The Widowe receiuing this good meate , set her maide to dresse it
incontinent , (DELONEY-E2-P1,16.250)

and when dinner time drew neere , the Table was couered , and euery
other thing prouided in conuenient and comely sort .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,16.251)

At length the guests being come , the Widow bad them al heartily
welcome . (DELONEY-E2-P1,16.252)

The Priest and the Tanner seeing the Taylor , mused what hee made there
: (DELONEY-E2-P1,16.253)

the Taylor on the other side , maruelled as much at their presence .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,16.254)

Thus looking strangely one at another , at length the widow came out of
the kitchin , in a faire traine gowne stucke full of siluer pinnes , a
fine white cap on her head , with cuts of curious needle worke vnder
the same , and an apron before her as white as the driuen snowe :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,16.255)

then verie modestly making curtsie to them all , shee requested them to
sit downe . (DELONEY-E2-P1,16.256)

But they straining curtesie the one with the other , the Widow with a
smiling countenance , tooke the Parson by the hand saying : Sir , as
you stand highest in the Church , so is it meet you should sit highest
at the Table : (DELONEY-E2-P1,16.257)

and therefore I pray you sit downe there on the bench side .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,16.258)

And sir said shee <P_17> to the Tanner , as age is to bee honoured
before youth for their experience , so are they to sit aboue Batchelers
for their grauitie , (DELONEY-E2-P1,17.259)

and so she set him downe on this side the Table , ouer against the
Parson . (DELONEY-E2-P1,17.260)

Then comming to the Taylor shee sayd : Batchler , though your lot bee
the last , your welcome is equall with the first ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,17.261)

and seeing your place points out it selfe , I pray you take a cushion
(DELONEY-E2-P1,17.262)

and sit downe . (DELONEY-E2-P1,17.263)

And now <paren> quoth shee </paren> to make the boord equall , and
because it hath beene an ould saying , that three things are to small
purpose , if the fourth be awaie : if so it may stand with your fauours
, I will call in a Gossip of mine to supplie this voide place .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,17.264)

With a good will quoth they . (DELONEY-E2-P1,17.265)

With that shee brought in an olde woman with scant euer a good tooth in
her head , (DELONEY-E2-P1,17.266)

and placed her right against the Bachelor . (DELONEY-E2-P1,17.267)

Then was the meate brought to the boorde in due order by the Widowes
seruants , her man <font> Iohn </font> beeing chiefe seruitor .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,17.268)

The Widow sate downe at the Tables end between the Parson and the
Tanner , who in very good sort carued meate for them all , her man
<font> Iohn </font> waiting on the table . (DELONEY-E2-P1,17.269)

After they had sitten a while , and wel refreshed themselues , the
Widow taking a Crystall glasse fild with claret Wine , drunke vnto the
whole companie , (DELONEY-E2-P1,17.270)

and bade them welcome . (DELONEY-E2-P1,17.271)

The Parson pledged her , (DELONEY-E2-P1,17.272)

and so did all the rest in due order ; (DELONEY-E2-P1,17.273)

but still in their company the cup past ouer the poor olde Womans nose
: insomuch that at length the olde Woman <paren> in a merrie vaine
</paren> spake thus vnto the companie : I haue had much good meate
among you ; (DELONEY-E2-P1,17.274)

but as for the drinke I can nothing commend it . (DELONEY-E2-P1,17.275)

Alas good Gossip <paren> quoth the Widow </paren> I perceiue no man
hath drunke to thee yet . (DELONEY-E2-P1,17.276)

No truly quoth the old Woman , (DELONEY-E2-P1,17.277)

for Churchmen haue so much minde of young Rabbets , old men such ioie
in young Chickens , and Bachelors in Pigs flesh take such delight ,
that an old Sow , a tough Henne , or a gray Coney are not accepted :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,17.278)

and so it is seene by mee , (DELONEY-E2-P1,17.279)

else I should haue beene better remembred . (DELONEY-E2-P1,17.280)

Well old woman quoth the Parson , take heere the leg of a Capon to stop
thy mouth . (DELONEY-E2-P1,17.281)

Now by S. <font> Anne </font> I dare not , quoth she .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,17.282)

No ? wherefore said the Parson ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,17.283)

Marie for feare least you should goe home with a Crutch , quoth shee .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,17.284)

The Taylor said , then taste here a peece of Goose .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,17.285)

<P_18>

Now God forbid , sayde the old Woman , (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.287)

let Goose goe to his kinde : (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.288)

you haue a young stomacke , (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.289)

eate it your selfe , (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.290)

and much good may it doo your hart sweet young man .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,18.291)

The old woman lacks most of her teeth , quoth the Tanner ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,18.292)

and therefore a peece of tender Chicke is fittest for her .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,18.293)

If I did lacke as many of my teeth , quoth the olde woman , as you
lacke points of good husbandrie , I doubt I should starue before it
were long . (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.294)

At this the Widow laught heartily , (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.295)

and the men were stricken into such a dumpe , that they had not a word
to say . (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.296)

Dinner being ended , the widow with the rest rose from the Table ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,18.297)

and after they had sitten a pretie while merrily talking , the Widow
called her man <font> Iohn </font> to bring her a bowle of fresh ale ,
which he did . (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.298)

Then sayd the Widow : My masters , now for your curtesie and cost I
heartily thanke you all , (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.299)

and in requitall of all your fauour , loue and good-will , I drinke to
you , giuing you free libertie when you please to depart .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,18.300)

At these wordes her sutors looked so sowrely one upon another , as if
they had beene newly champing of Crabs . Which when the Taylor heard ,
shaking vp himselfe in his new russet Ierkin , and setting his hat on
one side , hee began to speake thus . (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.301)

I trust sweete widow <paren> quoth hee </paren> you remember to what
ende my comming was hither to day , (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.302)

I haue long time beene a sutor vnto you , (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.303)

and this day you promised to giue me a direct answer .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,18.304)

$'T $is {TEXT:Tis} true , quoth shee , (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.305)

and so I haue : (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.306)

for your loue I giue you thankes , (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.307)

and when you please you may depart . (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.308)

Shall I not haue you said the Taylor ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.309)

Alas <paren> quoth the Widow </paren> you come too late .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,18.310)

Good friend <paren> quoth the Tanner </paren> it is manners for young
men to let their elders bee serued before them : (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.311)

to what end should I bee here if the widow should haue thee ?
(DELONEY-E2-P1,18.312)

a flat deniall is meete for a saucie sutor : (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.313)

but what saist thou to mee faire widow <paren> quoth the Tanner
</paren> ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.314)

Sir said shee , because you are so sharp set , I would wish you as soon
as you can to wed . (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.315)

Appoint the time your self quoth the Tanner . (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.316)

Euen assoone <paren> quoth shee </paren> as you can get a Wife ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,18.317)

and hope not after mee , (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.318)

for I am alreadie promised . (DELONEY-E2-P1,18.319)

<P_19>

Now Tanner you may take your place with the Taylor , quoth the Parson ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,19.321)

for indeede the widow is for no man but my selfe .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,19.322)

Master Parson <paren> quoth shee </paren> many haue runne neere the
goale , and yet lost the game , (DELONEY-E2-P1,19.323)

and I $can $not {TEXT:cannot} helpe it though your hope bee in vaine :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,19.324)

besides , Parsons are but newly suffered to haue wiues ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,19.325)

and for my part I will haue none of the first head .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,19.326)

What <paren> quoth the Taylor </paren> is our merriment growne to this
reckoning ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,19.327)

I neuer spent a Pig and a Goose to so bad purpose before :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,19.328)

I promise you when I came in , I verilie thought that you were inuited
by the Widowe to make her and me sure together , and that the iolly
Tanner was brought to bee a witnesse to the contract , and the old
Woman fetcht in for the same purpose ; (DELONEY-E2-P1,19.329)

else I would neuer haue put vp so many drie bobs at her hands .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,19.330)

And surely quoth the Tanner , I knowing thee to bee a Taylor , did
assuredly think that thou wast appointed to come and take measure for
our wedding apparell . (DELONEY-E2-P1,19.331)

But now we are all deceiued quoth the Parson , (DELONEY-E2-P1,19.332)

and therefore as wee came fooles , so wee may depart hence like asses .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,19.333)

That is as you interpret the matter , said the Widow :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,19.334)

for I euer doubting that a concluding answer would breede a iarre in
the end among you euery one , I thought it better to bee done at one
instant , and in mine owne house , than at sundry times and in common
Tauernes : (DELONEY-E2-P1,19.335)

and as for the meate you sent , as it was vnrequested of mee , so had
you your part thereof , (DELONEY-E2-P1,19.336)

and if you think good to take home the remainder , prepare your wallets
(DELONEY-E2-P1,19.337)

and you shall haue it . (DELONEY-E2-P1,19.338)

Nay Widow quoth they , (DELONEY-E2-P1,19.339)

although wee haue lost our labours , wee haue not altogether lost our
manners : (DELONEY-E2-P1,19.340)

that , which you haue keepe , (DELONEY-E2-P1,19.341)

and God send to vs better lucke , and to you your hearts desire ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,19.342)

and with that they departed . (DELONEY-E2-P1,19.343)

The Widow being glad shee was thus rid of her guestes , when her man
<font> Iohn </font> with all the rest sate at supper , she sitting in a
chaire by , spake thus vnto them . (DELONEY-E2-P1,19.344)

Well my masters , you sawe that this day your poore Dame had her choise
of husbands , if shee had listed to marrie , and such as would haue
loued and maintained her like a woman . (DELONEY-E2-P1,19.345)

$'T $is {TEXT:Tis} true quoth <font> Iohn , </font>
(DELONEY-E2-P1,19.346)

and I pray God you haue not withstoode your best fortune .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,19.347)

<P_20>

Trust me <paren> quoth shee </paren> I know not ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,20.349)

but if I haue I may thank mine owne foolish fancie .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,20.350)

Thus it past on from <font> Bartholomewtide , </font> till it was neere
Christmas , at what time the weather was so wonderfull cold , that all
the running Riuers round about the Towne were frozen very thicke .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,20.351)

The Widowe beeing very loath any longer to lie without companie , in a
colde winters night made a great fire , (DELONEY-E2-P1,20.352)

and sent for her man <font> Iohn : </font> (DELONEY-E2-P1,20.353)

hauing also prepared a chaire and a cushion , shee made him sit downe
therein , (DELONEY-E2-P1,20.354)

and sending for a pinte of good Sacke , they both went to supper .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,20.355)

In the ende bed time comming on , shee caused her maide in a merriment
to plucke off his hose and shooes , (DELONEY-E2-P1,20.356)

and caused him to bee laide in his masters best bed , standing in the
best Chamber , hung round about with very faire curtaines .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,20.357)

<font> Iohn </font> being thus preferred , thought himselfe a Gentleman
, (DELONEY-E2-P1,20.358)

and lying soft , after his hard labour and a good supper , quickly fell
asleepe . (DELONEY-E2-P1,20.359)

About midnight , the Widow being cold on her feet , crept into her mans
bed to warme them . (DELONEY-E2-P1,20.360)

<font> Iohn </font> feeling one lift vp the cloathes , asked who was
there ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,20.361)

O good <font> Iohn </font> it is I , quoth the widow ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,20.362)

the night is so extreame colde , and my Chamber walles so thin , that I
am like to be starued in my bed : wherefore rather then I would any way
hazard my health , I thought it much better to come hither and trie
your curtesie , to haue a little roome beside you .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,20.363)

<font> Iohn </font> being a kind young man would not say her nay ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,20.364)

and so they spent the rest of the night both together in one bed .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,20.365)

In the morning betime shee rose vp (DELONEY-E2-P1,20.366)

and made her selfe ready , (DELONEY-E2-P1,20.367)

and willed her man <font> Iohn </font> to runne and fetch her a Link
with all speede : (DELONEY-E2-P1,20.368)

for quoth shee , I haue earnest businesse to do this morning .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,20.369)

Her man did so . Which done shee made him to carrie the Linke before
her , vntill she came to Saint <font> Bartholomewes </font> Chappell ,
where Sir <font> Iohn </font> the Priest with his Clark and Sexton ,
stoode wayting for her . (DELONEY-E2-P1,20.370)

<font> Iohn </font> quoth shee , turne into the Chappell ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,20.371)

for before I goe further , I will make my prayers to S. <font>
Bartholmew , </font> (DELONEY-E2-P1,20.372)

so shall I speed the better in my businesse . (DELONEY-E2-P1,20.373)

When they were come in , the Priest according to his order came to her
, (DELONEY-E2-P1,20.374)

and asked where the Bridegroome was ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,20.375)

Quoth she , I thought he had beene here before me .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,20.376)

Sir <paren> quoth shee </paren> I will sit downe and say ouer my beades
, (DELONEY-E2-P1,20.377)

and by that time hee will come . (DELONEY-E2-P1,20.378)

<P_21>

<font> Iohn </font> mused at this matter , to see that his Dame should
so sodainly bee married , and hee hearing nothing thereof before .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,21.380)

The Widowe rising from her prayers , the Priest toulde her that the
Bridegroome was not yet come . (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.381)

Is it true , quoth the widow ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.382)

I promise you I will stay no longer for him if he were as good as
<font> George a Green : </font> (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.383)

and therefore dispatch quoth shee , (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.384)

and marrie me to my man <font> Iohn . </font> (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.385)

Why Dame <paren> quoth he </paren> you doe but iest I trowe .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,21.386)

<font> Iohn </font> <paren> quoth shee </paren> I iest not :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,21.387)

for so I meane it shall bee , (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.388)

and stand not strangely , (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.389)

but remember that you did promise mee on your faith not to hinder mee ,
when I came to the Church to bee married , but rather to set it forward
: (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.390)

therfore set your link aside (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.391)

and giue mee your hand , (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.392)

for none but you shall be my husband . (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.393)

<font> Iohn </font> seeing no remedy consented , because he sawe the
matter coulde not otherwise bee amended ; (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.394)

and married they were presently . (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.395)

When they were come home , Iohn entertained his Dame with a kisse :
which the other seruants seeing , thought him somthing sawcie .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,21.396)

The Widow caused the best cheere in the house to bee set on the Table ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,21.397)

and to breakfast they went , causing her new husband to bee set in a
chaire at the Tables end , with a faire napkin laid on his trencher :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,21.398)

then shee called out the rest of her seruants , willing them to sit
downe and take part of their good cheere . (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.399)

They wondring to see their fellow <font> Iohn </font> sit at the Tables
end in their old masters chaire , began heartily to smile , and openly
to laugh at the matter , especially because their Dame so kindly sate
by his side : which shee perceiuing , asked if that were all the
manners they could shew before their master : (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.400)

I tell you quoth shee , he is my husband , (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.401)

for this morning we were maried , (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.402)

and therefore hence forward looke you acknowledge your duty towardes
him . (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.403)

The folkes looked one upon another , maruelling at this strange newes .
Which when <font> Iohn </font> perceiued , hee said : My masters muse
not at all : (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.404)

for although by Gods prouidence and your Dames fauour , I am preferred
from being your fellow to bee your Master , I am not thereby so much
puft vp in pride , that any way I will forget my former estate :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,21.405)

Notwithstanding , seeing I am now to holde the place of a Master , it
shall bee wisedome in you to forget what I was , and to take mee as I
am ; (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.406)

and in dooing your diligence , you shall haue no cause to repent that
God made mee your master . (DELONEY-E2-P1,21.407)

<P_22>

The seruants hearing this , as also knowing his good gouernment before
time , past their yeares with him in dutifull manner .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,22.409)

The next daie the report was ouer all the Towne , that <font> Iacke of
Newbery </font> had married his Dame : so that when the Woman walked
abroad , euery one bad God giue her ioy : (DELONEY-E2-P1,22.410)

some said that shee was matcht to her sorrow , saying , that so lustie
a young man as he , would neuer loue her being so auncient . Whereupon
the Woman made answer , that shee would take him downe in his wedding
shooes , and woulde trie his patience in the prime of his lustinesse :
whereunto many of her Gossips did likewise encourage her .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,22.411)

Euery daie therefore for the space of a moneth after shee was married ,
it was her ordinarie custome , to goe forth in the morning among her
gossips and acquaintance to make merrie , and not to returne home till
night , without any regarde of her houshold . Of which , at her comming
home , her husband did very oftentimes admonish her in very gentle sort
, shewing what great inconuenience would grow thereby : the which
sometime shee would take in gentle part , and somtime in disdaine ,
saying : I am now in very good case , that hee which was my seruant but
the other day , will now bee my master : (DELONEY-E2-P1,22.412)

this it is for a Woman to make her foot her head .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,22.413)

The day hath beene when I might haue gone forth when I would , and come
in againe when it had pleased me without controulement :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,22.414)

and now I must bee subiect to euery Iackes checke .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,22.415)

I am sure <paren> quoth she </paren> that by my gadding abroad , and
carelesse spending I waste no goods of thine . (DELONEY-E2-P1,22.416)

I pittying thy pouertie , made thee a man , and maister of the house ,
but not to the end I woulde become thy slaue . (DELONEY-E2-P1,22.417)

I scorne , I tel thee true , that such a youngling as thy selfe should
correct my conceit , and giue mee instructions , as if I were not able
to guide my selfe : (DELONEY-E2-P1,22.418)

but yfaith yfaith , you shall not use me like a babe , nor bridle me
like an asse : (DELONEY-E2-P1,22.419)

and seeing my going abroad greeues thee , where I haue gone forth one
day I will goe abroad three , (DELONEY-E2-P1,22.420)

and for one houre I will stay fiue . (DELONEY-E2-P1,22.421)

Well <paren> quoth her husband </paren> I trust you will be better
aduised : (DELONEY-E2-P1,22.422)

and with that hee went from her about his businesse , leauing her
swearing in her fustian furies . (DELONEY-E2-P1,22.423)

Thus the time past on , till on a certaine day shee had beene abroad in
her wonted manner , (DELONEY-E2-P1,22.424)

and staying forth very late he shut the dores (DELONEY-E2-P1,22.425)

and went to bed . (DELONEY-E2-P1,22.426)

About midnight shee comes to the <P_23> doore (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.427)

and knockes to come in : to whom he looking out of the window ,
answered in this sort . What , is it you that keepes such a knocking ?
(DELONEY-E2-P1,23.428)

I pray you get hence (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.429)

and request the Constable to prouide you a bed , (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.430)

for this night you shall haue no lodging heere . (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.431)

I hope quoth shee , you will not shut me out of doores like a dogge ,
or let me lie in the streetes like a strumpet . (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.432)

Whether like a dogge or drab , quoth hee , all is one to mee , knowing
no reason but that as you haue stayed out all day for your delight , so
you may lie foorth all night for my pleasure . (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.433)

Both birds and beestes at the nights approach prepare to their rest ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,23.434)

and obserue a conuenient time to returne to their habitation .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,23.435)

Looke but upon the poore spider , the frogge , the flie , and euery
other silly worme , (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.436)

and you shell {COM:sic} see all these obserue time to returne to their
home : (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.437)

and if you beeing a woman will not doe the like , content your selfe to
beare the brunt of your owne folly , (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.438)

and so farewell . (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.439)

The Woman hearing this , made pitious moane , (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.440)

and in verie humble sort intreated him to let her in , and to pardon
this offence , (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.441)

and while shee liued vowed never to doe the like .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,23.442)

Her husband at length beeing mooued with pittie towardes her , slipt on
his shooes (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.443)

and came downe in his shirt : (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.444)

the doore being opened , in shee went quaking , (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.445)

and as hee was about to locke it againe , in very sorrowfull manner she
said : Alacke husband , what hap haue I ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.446)

My wedding Ring was euen now in my hand , (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.447)

and I haue let it fall about the doore , (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.448)

good sweet <font> Iohn </font> come forth with the Candle
(DELONEY-E2-P1,23.449)

and help mee to seeke it . (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.450)

The man incontinent did so , (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.451)

and while hee sought for that which was not there to bee found , shee
whipt into the house , (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.452)

and quickly clapping to the doore , she lockt her husband out .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,23.453)

He stood calling with the candle in his hand to come in ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,23.454)

but shee made as if shee heard not . (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.455)

Anon shee went vp into her chamber , (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.456)

and carried the key with her : (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.457)

but when hee sawe she would not answere , he presently began to knock
as lowd as hee could at the doore . (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.458)

At last shee thrust her head out at the window , saying : who is there
? (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.459)

$'T $is {TEXT:Tis} I quoth <font> Iohn , </font> (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.460)

what meane you by this ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.461)

I pray you come downe (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.462)

and open the doore that I may come in . (DELONEY-E2-P1,23.463)

<P_24>

What sir , quoth shee , is it you ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.465)

haue you nothing to doe but daunce about the streetes at this time of
night , and like a Spirit of the Butterie hunt after Crickets ?
(DELONEY-E2-P1,24.466)

are you so hot that the house $can $not {TEXT:cannot} hold you ?
(DELONEY-E2-P1,24.467)

Nay I pray thee , sweet heart quoth he doe not gibe any longer ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,24.468)

but let me in . (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.469)

O sir , remember quoth she , how you stood euen now at the window ,
like a Iudge on the bench , and in taunting sort kept me out of my owne
howse . (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.470)

How now <font> Iacke , </font> am I euen with you ?
(DELONEY-E2-P1,24.471)

What <font> Iohn </font> my man , were you so lustie to lock your Dame
out of doores ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.472)

Sirra , remember you bad me goe to the Constable to get lodging :
(DELONEY-E2-P1,24.473)

now you haue leisure to trie if his wife will preferre you to a bed .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,24.474)

You sir Sawce , that made me stand in the colde till my feete did
freeze , and my teeth chatter , while you stood preaching of birds and
beasts telling mee a tale of spiders , flyes , and frogges : goe trie
now if any of them will be so friendly to let thee haue lodging .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,24.475)

Why go you not man ? (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.476)

feare not to speake with them , (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.477)

for I am sure you shall finde them at home : (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.478)

thinke not they are such ill husbands as you , to bee abroad at this
time of night . (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.479)

With this , <font> Iohns </font> patience was greatly moued , insomuch
that hee deepely swore that if shee woulde not let him in hee would
break downe the doore . (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.480)

Why <font> Iohn </font> quoth she , you neede not bee so hot ,
(DELONEY-E2-P1,24.481)

your clothing is not so warme : (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.482)

and because I thinke this will bee a warning vnto yee against another
time how you shut mee out of my house , catch , (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.483)

there is the key , (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.484)

come in at thy pleasure , (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.485)

and look you go to bed to your fellowes , (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.486)

for with mee thou shalt not lie to night . (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.487)

With that shee clapt to the casement , (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.488)

and got her to bedde , locking the chamber doore fast .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,24.489)

Her husband that knew it was in vaine to seeke to come into her Chamber
, and beeing no longer able to endure the colde , got him a place among
his Prentices , (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.490)

and there slept soundly . (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.491)

In the morning his wife rose betime , (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.492)

and merily made him a Cawdell , (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.493)

and bringing it vp to his bed , asked him how he did .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,24.494)

Quoth <font> Iohn , </font> troubled with a shrewe , who the longer she
liues the worse shee is : (DELONEY-E2-P1,24.495)

and as the people of <font> Ilyris </font> kill men with their lookes ,
so shee kills her husbands hart with vntoward conditions .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,24.496)

<P_25> But trust mee wife , quoth hee , seeing I finde you of such
crooked qualities , that <paren> like the Spider </paren> ye turne the
sweete flowers of good counsell into venemous poyson , from henceforth
I will leaue you to your own wilfulnes , and neither vexe my minde nor
trouble my selfe to restraine you : the which if I had wisely done last
night , I had kept the house in quiet , and my selfe from cold .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,25.497)

Husband <paren> quoth shee </paren> thinke that women are like
Starlings ; that will burst their gall before they will yeelde to the
Fowler : or like the fish <font> Scolopendra , </font> that $can $not
{TEXT:cannot} be touched without danger . (DELONEY-E2-P1,25.498)

Notwithstanding , as the hard steele doth yeelde to the hammers stroke
, being used to his kinde , so will women to their husbands , where
they are not too much crost . (DELONEY-E2-P1,25.499)

And seeing yee haue sworne to giue mee my will , I vowe likewise that
my wilfulnesse shall not offend you . (DELONEY-E2-P1,25.500)

I tell you husband , the noble nature of a woman is such , that for
their louing friends they will sticke <paren> like the Pellican
</paren> to pearce their owne hearts to doo them good .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,25.501)

And therefore forgiuing each other all iniuries past , hauing also
tried one anothers patience , let vs quench these burning coales of
contention , with the sweete iuice of a faithfull kisse : and shaking
hands , bequeath all our anger to the eating vp of this Cawdle .
(DELONEY-E2-P1,25.502)

Her husband curteously consented : (DELONEY-E2-P1,25.503)

and after this time , they liued long together , in most godly , louing
and kind sort , till , in the end she died , leauing her husband
wondrous wealthie . (DELONEY-E2-P1,25.504)