( 73 )
upon Agreement of Friends, two that know nothing of one-another's minds, are to lye together at first fight; this, as to the World, is coming together Honourably: A Woman that is sold for all her Life long, is a Wife; and she that is sold but for a Quarter of an Hour, is a Whore.
Bell. The Misfortunes in Marriage have other Causes besides; proceeding not only from the Avarice of Parents, who force their Children for Interest or some private Consideration, to marry, tho' never so Averse themselves: But from our own Ambition, preferring an Allyance or a Portion without Examining the Person; or from a rash Fancy taken at first Sight, and persu'd without consulting our Judgment.
Phil. But when Love is kept within the bounds of Prudence and Discretion, arising from Esteem, repaid with Tenderness, maintain'd by Innocence and Fidelity; 'tis then a Divine Extasie; the Fountain and Author of Peace, Tranquillity and Unutterable Joy.
Sir Toby. But why Adzooks is not this Divine Extasie to be found without marrying.
Ang. No, for what offends the Confidence, destroys the Tranquillity; and nothing that must be repented of, can be call'd Happy or Wife.
Bell. They who are Rich by indirect means, or Great by Evil Practices, or enjoy forbidden Loves, are all miserable at the bottom.
Phil. Innocence is the foundation of true Joy, and without it all Possessions are imperfect.
Ang. Marriage is therefore necessary to perfect the Felicities of Love; and I appeal to their Consciences, Men and Women, who follow unlawful Pleasures, if they have not at some times, uneasie moments: And whoever have any thing, at any time, to reproach their Consciences withal, cannot be said to be happy.
Vaun. And is this all your Opinions?
(All.) All, All.
Vaun. Why then, beged, I'll get me a Wife assoon as I can.
Sir J. Aery. Geddemme a mighty pretty Woman, and a great Fortune, not an hour ago, would have forc'd me to marry her, and beged I refus'd!
Plack. to Aery. That mighty pretty Woman and great Fortune, is still at your Service.
Sir
