Pe. An excellent ditty it is, and worthy of a new tune.
Qu. In Cheapside, famous for gold and plate,
Quicksilver I did dwell of late; 50
I had a master good and kind,
That would have wrought me to his mind.
He bade me still, Work upon that,
But, alas! I wrought I knew not what.
He was a Touchstone black, but true,
And told me still what would ensue;
Yet woe is me! I would not learn;
I saw, alas! but could not discern!
Fr. Excellent, excellent well!
Go. O let him alone: he is taken already. 60
Qu. I cast my coat and cap away,
I went in silks and satins gay;
False metal of good manners I
Did daily coin unlawfully.
I scorn’d my master, being drunk;
I kept my gelding and my punk;
And with a knight, Sir Flash by name,
Who now is sorry for the same,—
Pe. I thank you, Francis.
[Qu.] I thought by sea to run away, 70
But Thames and tempest did me stay.
To. This cannot be feigned, sure. Heaven pardon my severity! The ragged colt may prove a good horse.
Go. How he listens, and is transported! He has forgot me.