Sim. Nay, I said behind your back, Mr. John, that you were very well spoken. Well, put up briskly. I'll stand your friend as much as one servant can to another, against all masters and mistresses whatever.
Lat. Thanks, good Mr. Simon. [Exeunt.
SCENE II.—Penelope's Lodgings.
Lettice, discovered reading, by a small candle; two large ones by her unlighted.
Lett. 'Tis a most sad thing, one dare not light a large candle except company's coming in, and I scarce can see to read this piteous story. Well, in all these distresses and misfortunes, the faithful Argalus was renowned all over the plains of Arca—Arca—Arcadia—for his loyal and true affection to his charming paramour, Parthenia.[70] Blessings on his heart for it; there are no such suitors nowadays. [Weeping.] But I hope they'll come together again at the end of the book, and marry, and have several children. Oh! Bless me! A man here! [Turns over the leaves.]—The gentleman's pretty man——[Aside.
Enter Latine.
I wonder by what means, with that impudence, you could offer to come upstairs at this time of the night, and my lady in the next room. I protest I'll cry out. [In a low voice all.
Lat. Dear Mrs. Lettice, my love to you. [Aloud.
Lett. Hist, hist! I am, methinks, however, loth to discover you, because servants must do as they're bid; for I know it was not to see me, but some message from your master you came about.
Lat. I offered to bring a letter from him, in hopes to see you, my dearest. I'll not give it at all; I don't care, my dearest. [Kisses her hand.