Plea. You have been marked for an indifferent sinner that way, captain.
Capt. Who, I? no, faith, I was a fool; but, and I were to begin again, I would not do as I have done. I kept one, but if ever I keep another, hang me; nor would I advise any friend of mine to do it.
Jolly. Why, I am sure 'tis a provident and safe way: a man may always be provided and sound.
Plea. Fie upon this discourse!
Capt. Those considerations betrayed me: a pox! it is a dull sin to travel, like a carrier's horse, always one road.
Wid. Fie, captain! repent for shame, and marry.
Capt. Your ladyship would have said, marry and repent: no, though it be not the greatest pleasure, yet it is better than marrying; for when I am weary of her, my inconstancy is termed virtue, and I shall be said to turn to grace. Beware of women for better, for worse; for our wicked nature, when her sport is lawful, cloys straight: therefore, rather than marry, keep a wench.
Jolly. Faith, he's in the right; for 'tis the same thing in number and kind, and then the sport is quickened, and made poignant with sin.
Capt. Yet 'tis a fault, faith, and I'll persuade all my friends from it; especially here, where any innovation is dangerous. 'Twas the newness of the sin that made me suffer in the opinion of my friends, and I was condemned by all sorts of people; not that I sinned, but that I sinned no more.