PROLOGUE.
The town of Edmonton hath lent the stage
A Devil[411] and a Witch, both in an age.
To make comparisons it were uncivil
Between so even a pair, a Witch and Devil;
But as the year doth with his plenty bring
As well a latter as a former spring,
So hath this Witch enjoyed the first, and reason
Presumes she may partake the other season:
In acts deserving name, the proverb says,
“Once good, and ever;” why not so in plays?
Why not in this? since, gentlemen, we flatter
No expectation; here is mirth and matter.
The whole argument of the play is this distich.
Forced marriage, murder; murder blood requires:
Reproach, revenge; revenge hell’s help desires.
