Inst. Such as all lovers of their loves crave:
A token from Lady Science whereby
Hope of her favour may spring, and thereby
Comfort; which is the weapon doubtless
That must serve you against Tediousness.
Wit. If hope or comfort may be my weapon,
Then never with Tediousness me threaten;
For, as for hope of my dear heart's favour—
And thereby comfort—enough I gather.
Inst. Wit, hear me! Till I see Confidence
Have brought some token from Lady Science,
That I may feel that she favoureth you,
Ye pass not this way, I tell you true.
Wit. Which way then?
Inst. A plainer way, I told ye,
Out of danger from your foe to hold ye.
Wit. Instruction, hear me! Or my sweetheart
Shall hear that Wit from that wretch shall start
One foot, this body and all shall crack!
Forth I will, sure, whatever I lack!
Dil. If ye lack weapon, sir, here is one!
Wit. Well said, Diligence, thou art alone!
How say ye, sir? is not here weapon?
Inst. With that weapon your enemy never threaten;
For without the return of Confidence
Ye may be slain, sure, for all Diligence!
Dil. Good, sir! and Diligence, I tell you plain,
Will play the man or my master be slain!