Troico. You counsel well, indeed.
Leno. Well, Heaven bless the men that listen to reason! But tell me, Troico, do you think you can carry out the jest with a grave face?
Troico. I? What have I to laugh about?
Leno. Why, don’t you think it is a laughing matter to make her believe you ate it, when all the time it was your own good Leno that did it?
Troico. Wisely said! But now hold your tongue, and go about your business!
Lope de Rueda. “Timbria” (fl. 1565). Trans. Ticknor.
THE FAIR CELIBATE.
They say, “’Tis time, go, marry! go!”
But I’ll no husband! not I! no!
For I would live all carelessly,