Page:A Series of Plays on the Passions Volume 1.pdf/132

Thou canst not leave, tho' violent in extreme,
And most vexatious in her teazing moods,
Thou canst not leave the fond admiring soul
Who did declare, when calmer reason rul'd,
Thou hadst a pretty leg.

Ros. Marry, thou hast the better of me there.

5th Mask. And more, I'll pledge to thee my honest word,
That when your noble swainship shall bestow
More faithful homage on the simple maid,
Who loves you with sincerity and truth,
Than on the changeful and capricious tyrant
W,ho mocking leads you like a trammell'd ass,
My studied woman's wiles I'll lay aside,
And such a one become.

Ros. Well spoke, brave lady, I will follow thee.
(follows her to the corner of the stage.)
Now on my life, these ears of mine I'd give,
To have but one look of that little face,
Where such a biting tongue doth hold its court
To keep the fools in awe. Nay, nay, unmask;
I'm sure thou hast a pair of wicked eyes,
A short and saucy nose; now prithee do.
(unmasking.)

Alb. (unmasking) Well hast thou guess'd me right?

Ros. (bowing low.) Wild freedom chang'd to most profound respect
Doth make an aukward booby of me now.

Alb. I've join'd your frolick with a good intent,
For much I wish'd to gain your private ear.