Claris. And this a Mistriss for Albertus Son,
One that I should call Sister?
Cesar. Part not with
Your modesty in this violent heat; the truth is,
(For you shall be my Confessor) I love her,
But virtuously; report that gives her out
Only for fair, and adds not she is chaste,
Detracts much from her: for indeed she is,
Though of a low condition; compos'd
Of all those graces, dames of highest birth,
Though rich in natures bounties, should be proud of;
But leave her, and to you my nearest care,
My dearest best Clarissa. Do not think
(For then you wrong me) I wish you should live
A barren Virgin life; I rather aim at
A noble Husband, that may make you mother
Of many children, one that when I know him
Worth your embraces, I may serve, and sue [to]:
And therefore scorn not to acquaint me with
That man, that happy man; you please to favour.
Claris. I ever purpos'd it, for I will like
With your allowance:
Cesa. As a pawn of this;
Receive this Ring, but e'r you part with it
On any terms, be certain of your choice;
And make it known to me.
Enter Servants with Lights, Alberto, Baptista, Mariana, Mentivole.
Claris. You have my hand for't.
Cesar. Which were it not my Sisters, I should kiss:
With too much heat.
Claris. My Father and his guests, Sir.
Alber. Oh my old friend, my tri'd friend, my Baptista:
These days of rest and feasting, sute not with
Our tougher natures, those were golden ones,
Which were enjoy'd at Sea; that's our true Mother:
The Land's to us a step-dame; there we sought
Honor, and wealth through dangers: yet those dangers
Delighted more than their rewards, though great ones,
And worth the undertakers: here we study
The Kitchin Arts, to sharpen appetite,
Dull'd with abundance; and dispute with Heaven;
If that the least puff of the rough North-wind,
Blast our times burthen, rendring to our Palats
The charming juice less pleasing; whereas there
If we had Bisket, powder'd flesh, fresh water,
We thought them Persian delicates, and for Musick
If a strong gale but made the main yard crack,
We danc'd to the loud Minstrel.