It was the custom of these Friends to meet
With a few neighbours in a neighbouring street;
Where Counter ofttimes would occasion seize
To move his silent Friend by words like these:
“A man,” said he, “if govern’d by his wife,
Gives up his rank and dignity in life;
Now, better fate befalls my Friend and me.” -
He spoke, and look’d th’ approving smile to see.
The quiet partner, when he chose to speak,
Desired his friend “another theme to seek;