Bold. Most frequently, madam, unworthy vessel that I am to partake or retain any of the delicious dew that is there distilled.
Wid. But why shouldst thou ask me, what I meant e'en now? I tell thee, there's nothing uttered but carries a double sense,[99] one good, one bad; but if the hearer apply it to the worst, the fault lies in his or her corrupt understanding, not in the speaker; for to answer your Latin, pravis omnia prava. Believe me, wench, if ill come into my fancy, I will purge it by speech: the less will remain within. A pox of these nice-mouthed creatures! I have seen a narrow pair of lips utter as broad a tale as can be bought for money. Indeed, an ill tale unuttered is like a maggot in a nut, it spoils the whitest kernel.
Bold. You speak most intelligently, madam.
Wid. Hast not done yet? Thou art an old fumbler, I perceive. Methinks thou dost not do things like a woman.
Bold. Madam, I do my endeavour, and the best can do no more; they that could do better, it may be would not, and then 'twere all one. But rather than be a burthen to your ladyship, I protest sincerely, I would beg my bread; therefore I beseech you, madam, to hold me excused, and let my goodwill stand for the action.
Wid. Let thy goodwill stand for the action? If goodwill would do it, there's many a lady in this land would be content with her old lord; and thou canst not be a burthen to me, without thou lie upon me, and that were preposterous in thy sex. Take no exceptions at what I say. Remember you said stand even now. There was a word for one of your coat, indeed!
Bold. I swear, madam, you are very merry. God send you good luck. Has your ladyship no waters that you use at bedtime?
Wid. No, in troth, Princox.
Bold. No complexion!
Wid. None but mine own, I swear. Didst thou ever use any?