Tha. I ever thought by his red beard he would prove
a Judas;[219] here am I bought and sold; he makes much of me indeed. Well, wench, we were best wisely in time seek for prevention; I should be loath to take drink and die on ’t, as I am afraid I shall, that he will lie with thee.
Abi. To be short, sweetheart, I’ll be true to thee, though a liar to my husband. I have signed your husband’s bill like a woodcock, as he is held; persuaded him (since naught but my love can assuage his violent passions) he should enjoy, like a private friend, the pleasures of my bed. I told him my husband was to go to Maurano to-day, to renew a farm he has; and in the meantime he might be tenant at will to use mine. This false fire has so took with him, that he’s ravish’d afore he come. I have had stones on him all red. Dost know this?
Tha. Ay, too well; it blushes, for his master. 53
[Points to the ring.
Abi. Now my husband will be hawking about thee anon, and thou canst meet him closely.
Tha. By my faith, I would be loth in the dark, and he knew me.
Abi. I mean thus: the same occasion will serve him too; they are birds of a feather, and will fly together, I warrant thee, wench; appoint him to come; say that thy husband’s gone for Maurano, and tell me anon if thou madest not his heart-blood spring for joy in his face. 62
Tha. I conceive you not all this while.
Abi. Then th’ art a barren woman, and no marvel if