MISTRESS FORD.
We’ll try that; for I’ll appoint my men to carry the basket again, to meet him at the door with it as they did last time.
MISTRESS PAGE.
Nay, but he’ll be here presently. Let’s go dress him like the witch of Brentford.
MISTRESS FORD.
I’ll first direct my men what they shall do with the basket. Go up, I’ll bring linen for him straight.
[Exit Mistress Ford.]
MISTRESS PAGE.
Hang him, dishonest varlet! We cannot misuse him enough.
We’ll leave a proof, by that which we will do,
Wives may be merry and yet honest too.
We do not act that often jest and laugh;
’Tis old but true: “Still swine eats all the draff.”
[Exit.]
Enter Mistress Ford with John and Robert.
MISTRESS FORD.
Go, sirs, take the basket again on your shoulders. Your master is hard at door; if he bid you set it down, obey him. Quickly, dispatch.
[Exit Mistress Ford.]
JOHN.
Come, come, take it up.