PHIL. But, sister, softly, lest my mother hear.
MAL. Hush, then; mum, mouse in cheese[327], cat is near.
[Exit MAL.
FRAN. Now, in good faith, Philip, this makes me smile,
That I have wooed and won in so small while.
PHIL. Francis, indeed my sister, I dare say.
Was not determined to say thee nay;
For this same tother thing, call'd maiden-head,
Hangs by so small a hair or spider's thread,
And worn so too[328] with time, it must needs fall,
And, like a well-lur'd hawk, she knows her call.
[Enter MALL.]
MAL. Whist, brother, whist! my mother heard me tread,
And ask'd, Who's there? I would not answer her;
She call'd, A light! and up she's gone to seek me:
There when she finds me not, she'll hither come;
Therefore dispatch, let it be quickly done.
Francis, my love's lease I do let to thee,
Date of my life and thine: what sayest thou to me?
The ent'ring, fine, or income thou must pay,
Are kisses and embraces every day;
And quarterly I must receive my rent;
You know my mind.
FRAN. I guess at thy intent:
Thou shalt not miss a minute of thy time.
MAL. Why, then, sweet Francis, I am only thine.—
Brother, bear witness.
PHIL. Do ye deliver this as your deed?
MAL. I do, I do.