As I upon a day
Was walking through the street,
About my master's business, 15
A wanton I did meet.
A gallant dainty dame
And sumptuous in attire;
With smiling look she greeted me,
And did my name require. 20
Which when I had declar'd,
She gave me then a kiss,
And said, if I would come to her
I should have more than this.
"Fair mistress," then quoth I, 25
"If I the place may know,
This evening I will be with you;
For I abroad must go,
"To gather monies in,
That are my master's due: 30
And ere that I do home return
I'll come and visit you."
"Good Barnwell," then quoth she,
"Do thou to Shoreditch come,
And ask for Mrs. Milwood's house, 35
Next door unto the Gun.
"And trust me on my truth,
If thou keep touch with me,
My dearest friend, as my own heart
Thou shalt right welcome be." 40
Thus parted we in peace,
And home I passed right;
Then went abroad, and gathered in,
By six o'clock at night,
An hundred pound and one: 45
With bag under my arm
I went to Mrs. Millwood's house,
And thought on little harm.
And knocking at the door,
Straightway herself came down; 50
Rustling in most brave attire,
With hood and silken gown.