Volume Viii Part 86 (2/2)

I would not have him see me for a world.

FOR. Why? he is not here. Well, now I see you fear him.

MAR. Marry, beshrew thee for thy false alarm!

I fear him? no, I neither fear nor love him.

FOR. But where's my lady? She is gone home before, And I must follow after. Marian, farewell.

MAR. I shall expect your coming.

FOR. Presently; And nearest thou, Marian? nay, it shall be so--

[_He whispers in her ear_.

MAR. O Lord, sir, you are wed, I warrant you: We'll laugh, be merry, and, it may be, kiss; But if you look for more, you aim amiss.

FOR. Go to, go to! we'll talk of this anon.

[_Exit_ FORREST.

MAR. Well, go thy way, for the true-heartedst man That liveth, and as full of honesty, And yet as wanton as a pretty lamb.

He'll come again, for he hath lov'd me long, And so have many more besides himself; But I was coy and proud, as maids are wont, Meaning to match beyond my mean estate: Yet I have favour'd youths and youthful sports, Although I durst not venture on the main; But now it will not be so soon espied.

Maids cannot, but a wife a fault may hide.

_Enter_ NAN.

What, Nan!

NAN. Anon, forsooth.

MAR. Come hither, maid.

Here, take my keys, and fetch the galley-pot; Bring a fair napkin and some fruit-dishes.

Despatch, and make all ready presently; Miles Forrest will come straight to drink with me.

NAN. I will, forsooth. [_Exit_ NAN.

MAR. Why am I young, but to enjoy my years?

Why am I fair, but that I should be lov'd?

And why should I be lov'd, and not love others?

Tut, she is a fool that her affection smothers: 'Twas not for love I was the doctor's wife, Nor did he love me, when he first was mine.

Tush, tush, this _wife_ is but an idle name!

I purpose now to try another game.

Art thou return'd so soon? O, 'tis well done.

_Enter_ NAN _with the banquet_.

And hear'st thou, Nan? when Forrest shall return, If any happen to inquire for me, Whether't be Captain Clinton or Ralph Harvey, Call presently, and say, thy master's come; So I'll send Forrest o'er the garden pale.

NAN. I will, forsooth.

MAR. Meantime, stay thou and make our banquet ready.

I'll to my closet, and be here again, Before Miles Forrest shall come visit me.

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