Wood. I did his chamber the honour, when my own was not open, to retire thither; and he to disturb me, like a profane rascal as he was.

Limb. [Aside.] I believe he had the devil for his chaplain, an’ a man durst tell him so.

Wood. What is that you mutter?

Limb. Nay, nothing; but that I thought you had not been so well given.  I was only afraid of Pug’s jewels.

Wood. What, does he take me for a thief? nay then—­

Limb. O mercy, mercy!

Pleas. Hold, sir; it was a foolish dream of mine that set him on.  I dreamt, a thief, who had been just reprieved for a former robbery, was venturing his neck a minute after in Mr Limberham’s closet.

Wood. Are you thereabouts, i’faith!  A pox of Artemidorus[13].

Trick. I have had a dream, too, concerning Mrs Brainsick, and perhaps—­

Wood. Mrs Tricksy, a word in private with you, by your keeper’s leave.

Limb. Yes, sir, you may speak your pleasure to her; and, if you have a mind to go to prayers together, the closet is open.

Wood. [To TRICK.] You but suspect it at most, and cannot prove it:  if you value me, you will not engage me in a quarrel with her husband.

Trick. Well, in hope you will love me, I will obey.

Brain. Now, damsel Tricksy, your dream, your dream!

Trick. It was something of a flagelet, that a shepherd played upon so sweetly, that three women followed him for his music, and still one of them snatched it from the other.

Pleas. [Aside.] I understand her; but I find she is bribed to secrecy.

Limb. That flagelet was, by interpretation,—­but let that pass; and Mr Woodall, there, was the shepherd, that played the tan ta ra upon it:  but a generous heart, like mine, will endure the infamy no longer; therefore, Pug, I banish thee for ever.

Trick. Then farewell.

Limb. Is that all you make of me?

Trick. I hate to be tormented with your jealous humours, and am glad to be rid of them.

Limb. Bear witness, good people, of her ingratitude!  Nothing vexes me, but that she calls me jealous; when I found him as close as a butterfly in her closet.

Trick. No matter for that; I knew not he was there.

Limb. Would I could believe thee!

Wood. You have both our words for it.

Trick. Why should you persuade him against his will?

Limb. Since you won’t persuade me, I care not much; here are the jewels in my possession, and I’ll fetch out the settlement immediately.

Wood. [Shewing the Box.] Look you, sir, I’ll spare your pains; four hundred a-year will serve to comfort a poor cast mistress.

Limb. I thought what would come of your devil’s pater nosters!