XI. The Widdow.
My dying[143] husband knew, how much his death would grieue me,
And therefore left me wealth, to comfort and relieue me.
Though I no more will haue, I must not loue disdaine,
Penelope her selfe did sutors entertaine;
And yet to draw on such, as are of best esteeme,
Nor yonger then I am, nor richer will I seeme.
XII. The Maid.
I marriage would forsweare, but that I heare men tell,
That she that dies a maid, must leade an Ape in Hell;
Therefore if fortune come, I will not mock and play,
Nor driue the bargaine on, till it be driuen away.
Tithes and lands I like, yet rather fancy can,
A man that wanteth gold, then gold that wants a man. (pp. 1-4.)
Betwixt a Wife, a Widdow, and a Maide.[144]
Wife. Widdow, well met, whether goe you to day?
Will you not to this solemne offering go?
You know it is Astreas holy day:
The Saint to whom all hearts deuotion owe.