Pel. But how
Make answer to our wives? Our wisdom's nicked
Where it is tenderest if we confess.
Ste. What's to confess? I know my will and do it.
Pel. Ay, ay, you bear your wife in a sack, but mine
Is on her feet and goes her pace. Look yon!
They come together! A brace, and one of them
Would tie my tongue.
Ste. Tie water in a brook!
[Archippe and Sachinessa enter upper right]
Sac. We do not come to shame you, noble lords
And husbands, though we've that to bear which put
To honest ballad would uncrest your pride
And clip a reef or two from the tall sail
Of dignity.
Ste. Why, madam, this approach?
Sac. I walk, sir, in my garden when I please.
Arc. We have a suit, my honored lords, which you
May think full strange, remembering our prayers
Of twenty years ago.
Ste. What suit canst have?
If you must try the goose-step out of doors,
Go thank the gods for suiting you with me,
Who save you from all suit by hearing none.