Knowing nothing more commendable for a man's recreation,
Than mirth which is used in an honest fashion.
For mirth prolongeth life, and causeth health;
Mirth recreates our spirits, and voideth pensiveness;
Mirth increaseth amity (not hind'ring our wealth);
Mirth is to be used both of more and less,
Being mixed with virtue in decent comeliness,
As we trust no good nature can gainsay the same:
Which mirth we intend to use, avoiding all blame.
The wise poets, long time heretofore,