Merc. That is, for holding a candle to iniquity. But if they were put out, thou would'st be doubly worshipped by the willing bashful virgins.
Night. Then, for my quiet, and the sweetness of my sleep.
Merc. No:—For thy sweet waking all the night; for sleep comes not upon lovers, till thou art vanished.
Night. But it will be against nature, to make a long winter's night at midsummer.
Merc. Trouble not yourself for that: Phœbus is ordered to make a short summer's day to-morrow; so, in four-and-twenty hours, all will be at rights again.
Night. Well, I am edified by your discourse; and my comfort is, that, whatever work is made, I see nothing.
Merc. About your business then. Put a spoke into your chariot-wheels, and order the seven stars to halt, while I put myself into the habit of a serving-man, and dress up a false Sosia, to wait upon a false Amphitryon.—Good night, Night.
Night. My service to Jupiter.—Farewell, Mercury.
[Night goes backward. Exit Mercury.