ACT THREE*n2601
This middle act is written as one large scene in which the stage is never clear (so that scene breaks cannot be added) and is presented as a series of interlocking yet distinct sequences. These episodes are linked by specific characters who remain onstage until the next sequence begins so that the overall plot is continually driven forward.
The plot device of the erroneously addressed letters occupies much of the act, illustrating how Careless lives up to his name, demonstrating the widow Crostill's odd nature (in enjoying mistreatment), and thrusting Phoebe towards the next conceit, in which she is spirited away into Lady Thrivewell's household in order to have her wrongs righted.
Early on in the act, Saveall mentions that he has taken a day to deliver Careless's letter to Crostill, and during what follows we discover just how much action has taken place overnight: Careless got himself very drunk and made a noisy, violent and lewd return to the house (as described by Lady Thrivewell); Saleware reports that Alicia stayed out all night, and Lord Lovely has not been at his lodging; Bellamy has carried out 'his' assignation with Lady Thrivewell, and although Alicia probably assumes this took place during the night, the end of their hour-long meeting is pointed out by a jealous Careless. Bellamy names the next night as the time for his 'meeting' with Alicia.
3.1
Enter CROSTILL, reading a letter, [and] SAVEALL.
435CrostillDo you know the contents, Master Saveall, of the
familiar†gg1752
private; unduly intimate
epistle you have brought me here?
436SaveallNo, lady, but I guess it a fair expression of the writer’s affection to you, although he desired me to
crave your pardon for the
rudeness of his style*n1929
Saveall exactly repeats Careless's apology to Crostill [MC 2.2.speech370].
, it being the first that he hath composed of
that consequence*n1930
i.e. in the composition of a love letter
.
437CrostillHa, ha, ha, I’ll trust you, sir, with the full knowledge of it. Pray read it yourself.
438Saveall [Aside] I find she is pleased, and my endeavour prosperous for the young gentleman.
I am sorry that I delayed a day in the delivering of it.
439CrostillPray read it out, sir, for I find it so
pleasant†gg1754
pleasing, favourable; giving of satisfaction
that I could hear it a whole day
together†gg1755
continuously, without stopping
.
440Saveall
[He] reads. In the first place you shall give me leave to wonder at your impudence (though it be but in your
dreams) to have a thought that I ever intended, or can be drawn by persuasion, force, or the power of witchcraft, to marry you —
Bless me! Sure if he writ this, the devil dictated to him.
442Saveall
Secondly, I am to tell you that I am warm in mine uncle’s favour*n1931
i.e. back in his uncle's good books
. And ’tis not a piece a time,
or five pieces for a piece of pleasure*n1932
Careless puns on 'pieces' as payments for sex in coin and 'piece' as a woman or prostitute. The letter is intended for Phoebe, his whore, rather than Crostill.
can undo me; and so I can have change, and ’scape the captivity of wedlock.
This could no otherwise be done but by the devil, that
ought†gg1756
owed
him the shame.
443CrostillWhat follows, I pray? There’s the first and second point past. Mark his method.
444Saveall
Thirdly and lastly, let me advise you, since you are so hot†gg1757
eager (for), ardent (for)
upon marriage, though I assure myself you love none but me (and I thank you for’t),
that you frame†gg1758
(v) to set about, put one's mind to (something)
or dissemble an affection to someone of the city who is but comparative to yourself in blood
and fortune*n1933
i.e. of lowly status
, and so you may make by-use†gg1759
have sex on the side (i.e. out of marriage, in addition to marital relations; see OED use n. 3b)
of me as your friend†gg5428
lover or paramour (OED n.4)
, and have children like me.
George Careless.
445CrostillHave you ever heard so
quaint*n1934
Crostill could additionally be picking up on the letter's bawdy tone, punning on 'quaint' as another word for a woman's vagina, in reference to the extra-marital sexual activity Careless proposes.
†gg1761
skilful, clever
a love letter?
446SaveallLady, the injury done in it to yourself is unanswerable, but my wrong in being his messenger I will make him
answer†gg1762
defend; take responsibility for; justify
.
447CrostillExcuse me, sir, he has done me a favour. I pray inform him so with my great thanks. But for what you conceive a wrong to yourself,
use your discretion. You have no more to say to me for him at this
present†gs214
present time, i.e. now
, have you, sir?
448SaveallNot for him, but against him; I will un-say all that I said before intended for his good.
449CrostillBut I’ll not hear you wrong your former love and judgement of him so,*n3753
Parra sets this and Crostill's next speech as verse, while this edition follows the octavo's prose lineation. While verse suits Crostill's expression of love for Careless, its metre is far from regular, and although Brome often experiments with less formal, conversational verse lines, prose has been retained here with its light verse-rhythms detectable beneath.
which made so deep impression
here*n1935
It is suggested that Crostill points to or strikes her chest at this point, indicating her heart.
, that I had
locked his love up as a jewel in my breast*n1936
A common image used for love.
, and you in striving now to
wrest†gg1763
pull, pluck, twist out
it
thence†gg401
from there
may break the cabinet. I rather wish
you’ll be a friendly means to draw his presence
hither†gg1268
here (to this place)
, that I myself may mildly question him.
451CrostillI fear I shall not rest before I see him, but do not tell him that, lest in this sullen
humour†gg222
mood, temper, attitude, frame of mind
he
force†gg1764
impose (with effort)
his absence to afflict
me more. I’ll
hold†gg1428
(v) stop
you, sir, no longer.
Deal†gg816
behave; proceed
for me as you can; I know you have a guess at my
desire†gg1765
wish, longing, lust
.
452SaveallI’ll do you service in it.
CROSTILL exits.*n3921
] Exit Crostill.
I guess that her desire is to do some act of revenge upon him. And (
so†gg1766
so (that), so long as (OED adv. and conj. 26a)
it be not mortal) it were but justice in her for so
gross
a†gg1767
large, great; coarse
scorn by him cast upon a well-reputed
gentlewoman*n1937
] Gentleman
. Yet is it observed in her that she has a violent humour to do and not to do
things oftentimes wilfully against all good counsel or persuasion; she has the spirit of contradiction in her, and an unalterable
resolution upon sudden intentions; a most incorrigible will she has that will not bow nor break. This
cross*n1938
Saveall puns on the letter's ill-tempered tone and content, contrary to the expectation Careless had given him. It also points to the match between Crostill's name and her oppositional desire to be treated badly.
abusive letter therefore
may do good upon her, however mischievous he might intend it. If she meant well to him before, it may the faster bring her on. But it
amazes me that he should write so,
bearing his uncle and myself in hand†gg1768
to maintain, assert (with false pretences) (OED, bear, v1. 3e)
that he so fairly loved her and besought us to negotiate with
her for him. Should she forgive it, yet the wrong to us in his vile manners is unpardonable —
and so, sir, I come to you*n1939
This preserves the original text's arrangement of Saveall's line and Careless's entrance, so that Saveall decides to find Careless just as the latter enters. Another directorial option would be for Careless to begin entering just at the end of Saveall's line, so that Saveall breaks off his speech with purpose in order to confront Careless (now before him).
.
Enter CARELESS.
454SaveallWhat mischief or
despite†gg543
scorn, contempt
have I e’er done you
That could provoke your desperate
spleen†gs195
regarded as the seat of melancholy or depression (OED 1b); or more strongly describes a fit of bad temper (OED 7a); from the point of view of a prankster, spleen is the seat of mirth (OED 1c)
against me
To wound mine honour?
456SaveallYou have employed me
basely†gg1770
dishonourably, disingenuously
, made me your
Carrier of
scandal and scurrility†gg1769
coarseness, jesting, buffoonery
*n1940
Saveall characteristically expresses his contempt through alliterative language.
to the hands
Of nobleness and virtue. Could the fiend
Lust that is in you
suffer†gg1030
allow, tolerate
you to write
No other sense or language to a person
Of her fair name and worth than such as
ruffians†gg1771
men of low character, villains
Would send to
strumpets†gg762
debauched woman, whore
? Or, it being such,
Enter WAT.
Could not a
porter†gg1772
person employed to carry something (OED n2. 1b)
, or your
pander†gg540
go-between, facilitating sexual relations
there,
[Indicating WAT]
Serve for the lewd conveyance?
457[Wat]*n1941
In the original text Saveall's speech includes this line, however it clearly belongs to Wat, especially since Saveall otherwise has two consecutive speeches. A previous unknown reader of the British Library control text copy helpfully inserts Wat's speech prefix here, having crossed out Saveall's speech prefix for the speech below, before realising the intended allocation of lines to characters and re-entering it as 'Sav.' in the margin.
What a welcome’s that!
Ha’ sent it so, and your own right hand with it,
Than to have drawn my just revenge upon you. [He] draws [his weapon].
459CarelessHold, I beseech you; and, sir, though I lose the
widow by my error (which was indeed but a mere
accident) let me not be so miserable made as to lose
you before you hear a short
examination†gg1982
inquiry (by questioning)
.
[To WAT] Delivered you the letter which I sent
Yesterday to the damsel that you
wot*n1942
Also a potential pun on Wat's name.
†gg1773
know
of?
460WatYes, sir; she read it, kissed it a hundred times,
Then made a
bosom idol*n1944
Phoebe seems to have put the letter down the front of her bodice for safe keeping, close to her heart (see OED, bosom, n. 3a and b).
on’t,
And says you are the noblest gentleman
Under†gg1774
below (in rank)
a saint that e’er took care for sinner.
She has the widow’s letter and the widow hers.
I found it, sir, when you
judiciously†gg1775
wisely, correctly
Said it was ruffian-like and strumpet-language.
462[Saveall]*n1947
] Wat. A previous unknown reader of the British Library control text copy has crossed out 'Wat' and ascribed the line to Saveall, which makes good sense.
How could you
err†gg1776
make a mistake, fail, go astray
so
strangely†gg231
very greatly (OED adv. 4); surprisingly, oddly, wondrously, unaccountably (OED adv. 5); (compare Jonson, Volpone, in which Peregrine, when asked how he likes the mountebank, replies, ‘Most strangely’)
?
463CarelessOh,
slightly†gg1777
easily; to a small extent (OED adv. 3 and 5a)
, slightly, curse o’ my
heedless†gg1778
careless
brain!
And then to be trapped with
carelessness*n1945
] carelesnesse.
*n1946
with a pun on Careless's name
When I was so
religiously†gg1779
faithfully; devoutly
resolved
T’incline to virtue and a marriage life,
Thinking with one hand to cast off my follies
And to take hold of virtue with the other.
For, sir, (I will confess myself to you)
The letter you conveyed was in defiance,
A loose-lived wanton, intended to a whore*n3699
Parra swaps the order of this line so it reads, 'Intended to a whore, a loose-lived wanton', which seems to make better sense. The octavo reading works if the lines are supposed to read, 'in defiance (of)/ A loose-lived wanton...'.
,
That impudently hopes an interest in me.
464SaveallIt was not so directed*n1948
i.e. the letter was not addressed to such a person (Phoebe).
.
(The hell confound it on’t) my
giddiness†gg1780
thoughtless folly (with sense of haste); dizziness
:
I sealed both letters
ere†gg1781
before
I
superscribed†gg1782
wrote upon (the surface)
’em,
And so gave each the contrary direction.
466Saveall’Twas a gross carelessness, and if you lose
A fortune by’t, do not blame your friends.
An honest woman! ’Twas the sweetest letter,
The daintiest winning things — the devil’s in’t —
She must not carry’t from the widow so.
[To WAT] Fetch me the letter again.
468WatDo you think she’ll part with’t, sir?
469CarelessCannot you
beat†gg1783
labour, reason; persuade, convince (OED v1. 8)
it out of her, sir?
470WatI cannot
tell†gs215
say (with the sense of 'know')
how to do that.
471Careless [Beating WAT] Thus, sir*n1949
Careless puns on 'beat' meaning 'labour' (on Phoebe giving the letter back) to mean physical violence.
— I’ll give you demonstration, you malicious rogue;
you that conspir’st with her*n1950
Careless transfers the blame of his error in writing the wrong names on the letter onto Wat, whom he suggests has plotted with Phoebe so that the letter intended for the widow will be irrecoverable and Careless (having alienated the widow) will be forced to marry his whore.
to betray me. So good a master I have been to thee, and so good a friend to her.
I’ll recompense you both.
472WatYou have undone us both, and will discard us now you are
warm†gg1785
literally warm as a result of physical embrace; also, figuratively, warm in someone's affections or favour
in your uncle’s
bosom†gg1784
confidence, affection, favour (also with verbal sense of having been embraced, received into intimate companionship; OED v. 3a)
again, but —
474WatYou put me in good mind*n1951
Wat attempts to pacify Careless by beginning to say he will recover the letter from Phoebe, only to stop his master beating him. Hence 'good mind' is rather ironic, as Wat is affirming that the violence has 'beaten some sense' into him, the physical prompting the mental effort.
, and if I do not
somewhat†gg1786
a small amount, contribution
—
475CarelessI owe you somewhat*n1952
Careless puns on 'somewhat' meaning 'a little something', interpreting it as another beating which he quickly administers to Wat.
for your last night’s absence, too pernicious villain, that kept’st thyself out o’ the
way o’ purpose that I should be drunk and abuse myself and the house here. All
lay†gg1787
depended (can be blamed)
o’ your absence. There’s
somewhat more for that.
Beats him [again].
476Wat’Tis all
upon account*n1953
Wat puns on 'account' as something which is Careless's personal opinion, also alluding to the beating he is receiving which will contribute towards a final reckoning for services rendered. This suggests that Wat does not feel he deserves this particular beating, but will keep it on 'account' for a future occasion.
, sir.
477CarelessWho knows an honest servingman that
wants*n1954
There are two alternate possible meanings here: 'needs, desires' or 'lacks'. Either Careless is pretending to advertise Wat to an imaginary assembled company, demonstrating his irritation and willingness to part with Wat; or Careless criticises Wat's supposed dishonesty: in this sense the line suggests that if Wat were honest he would not lack a decent (or decently-behaved) master.
a good master?
478[Wat]If I be not revenged,
etc.*n1955
This appears to be an instruction for the actor playing Wat to improvise dissatisfied comments as he exits.
Exit.
479SaveallWas it your man’s fault, Master Careless?
480CarelessNo, faith, to speak truth he was as much abused in it as you in doing a thing as contrary to his
vile†gg1788
base, depraved
conditions as you did
to your noble name. But I crave only your pardon. I know not what I do besides. This
cross-blow*n1956
Pun on Crostill's name, as the counter-blow or disruption is to Careless's plan involving her.
†gg1789
counter-blow, indirect blow (OED)
of chance
staggers†gg1790
bewilders, unsettles (faith in something, purpose)
my reason so —
481SaveallWell, sir, since I have found the error, my reason reconciles me to you, and since it grew out of your equal intent to cast off
the evil as to embrace the good, I will
re-mediate†gg1791
mediate again (Mad Couple is the only usage cited in OED v1.)
for you to the widow.
482CarelessBut yet she’ll know I have had a whore. Yet then you may say ’tis such a
running disease†gg1792
a) suppurating sore (in societal terms, but also suggestive of the physical side effects of visiting diseased prostitutes); b) continuous, or common, problem (OED, running, ppl.a. 17a)
among young gentlemen,
that not one of a hundred has
’scaped†gg1793
escaped
it that have proved
staid†gg1794
free from flightiness, serious in conduct
men afterwards and very sober husbands — as, look you,
yonder’s
one*n1957
Careless refers to Bellamy, whom he can see just before he enters with Lady Thrivewell. The original position of the entrance has been retained, since it is not essential for Bellamy to be onstage in view of the audience during Careless's line. This lineation allows either for Careless to spy Bellamy offstage, or to bring his entrance forward.
may prove, whom now I have in good sooth a great desire to beat.
Enter LADY [Thrivewell] and BELLAMY talking.
[SAVEALL and CARELESS speak to each other.]
483SaveallIn your aunt’s presence and your uncle’s house (though I were not his friend) could you be so outrageous? I
muse†gg1795
(v) wonder, marvel, ponder
I see him here though.
485SaveallI make myself so, he being dependent to my noblest lord, whom I am bound to honour.
486CarelessWhat lord, I pray, that I may honour him too?
488CarelessThat loves women
above†gs216
more than
wine, wine above wealth, wealth above friend, and friends above himself.
There’s no scandal in all that, sir.
489SaveallIt
goes†gg1796
is said
so of him indeed, but he loves honour above all those.
[LADY Thrivewell and SAVEALL speak apart.]
492Careless [Aside] In the name of flesh, for what does his lordship employ that
angle-worm†gg1797
worm for bait; (of persons) a reference to weedy, insignificant appearance
to my aunt? He has had her this hour in private conference,
close chambered up together, not so much as Matron Nurse in the room with ’em. ’Tis a fine
sleek†gg1798
(of animals or persons) fur or skin in good condition; fawning, smooth
thing, and almost
pity to
hunt it*n1958
Careless continues to refer to Bellamy as some kind of animal to be hunted and killed having marked 'him' out as a threat in the competition for Lady Thrivewell's attention and affection.
, but sure I must beat it, as place and time convenient may serve.
493LadyPray, Master Saveall,
move†gg1799
persuade, convince
you my husband for it; I would not
meddle†gg391
mix, mingle; interfere, concern (oneself) with
in his money matters willingly.
494SaveallFive hundred pound for my lord upon the mentioned security; I will
break†gg1800
make it known
it to Sir Oliver.
495Careless [Aside] Is that the business after so much privacy? Very
pretty†gs217
cunning, clever, artful
! My aunt’s a woman too, and my uncle may have as
forked†gg1801
branching; horned (with reference to cuckoldry)
a fortune
as any of the city that lend out money to
hedge in†gg1802
'to secure (a debt), usually by including it in a larger one for which better security is obtained' (OED hedge v. 7a); and see Jonson's The Devil is an Ass 3.1.
lordships.
496LadyI am his lordship’s servant.
497BellamyAnd I your
lordship’s*n1959
Not necessarily an error for 'ladyship's' (as suggested by the previous anonymous reader of the British Library control text copy) as, in response to Lady Thrivewell's expression of fidelity to Lord Lovely (Bellamy's master), Bellamy articulates his allegiance to Lady Thrivewell's husband (her lordship) and announces his departure in search of the same (confirmed by Saveall's response in the next line).
, good madam. And yours, Master Saveall.
498SaveallI am for your way*n1960
I am going in the same direction as you (and will accompany you), i.e. to Lord Thrivewell.
, Master Bellamy.
499CarelessAnd I, sir, an’t please you.
SAVEALL [and] BELLAMY exit.*n3922
] Exit.Sav.Bel.
[CARELESS begins to follow them.]
500LadyGeorge Careless, I would speak with you.
501CarelessMay I not wait upon your gentleman to the gate, madam?
502LadyNo, good George, though I commend your courtesy, yet
would†gg24
wish (that/to)
I not you should neglect your own dignity.
503Careless [Aside] Umh†gg846
inarticulate sound indicating doubt, hesitation or dissatisfaction
— I am under
government†gg1803
direction, control, orders
.
504LadyThe young man, if you have modesty, will think you mock him; if not, you’ll make him become arrogant. Know you not whose
man†gg953
manservant
he is?
505CarelessNo —
[Aside] ’tis apparent this over-slighting of him proclaims she loves him—
[Aloud] whose follower, madam?
And I know lords’ followers, knights’ fellows*n1961
Careless is boasting about his acquaintances in high places.
.
506LadyNot all lords’ followers to all knights, George.
507CarelessTo as many as their fair ladies will
give way†gg1804
allow freedom (OED, give, v. 49d)
to, that are not faint-hearted.
508LadyI understand you not, George. Something troubles you; you are not
right†gg1805
(a) normal, in good spirits
today.
510LadyCome, I know what perplexes you, and ’tis therefore that I desire to talk with you. I am not angry with you, but let me
tell you, George, although not openly, I took notice of the
pickle†gg1806
situation, condition, state (OED n1. 4a); also with the sense of being soaked in a preserving fluid (as for pickled vegetables or fruit), usually alcohol for persons (see The Tempest, 5.1)
you came home in last night, after your uncle was in bed; to whom,
marvelling†gg1807
wondering, surprised
at your absence, I excused you as gone at my request to visit some ladies with whom you
stayed†gs218
stayed for
supper, I told him,
when you were with your
rousers*n1962
] Roucers (which is not listed in the OED).
†gg1808
those who stir things up, i.e. noisy friends (though OED doesn't list this latter meaning until 1732)
.
511CarelessBut did you
never so*n1963
] never go. Walley and Wilson make this alternative suggestion to the text, also acknowledged by Spove. It is preferable here, demanding the least changes to the original text whilst returning logic to the line. Editors since Knowland (Parra, Spove) emend to 'even so', since Lady Thrivewell does not go anywhere, and her response to Careless does not make sense in the original text. Spove also points out that Aphra Behn's adaptation of the play, The Debauchee, makes the sense clear, as Careless asks 'Did you do me this good office to my Unkle?' to which Lady Thrivewell replies 'Yes indeed, and he beliv'd me'.
?
512LadyIndeed I did, and he was satisfied.
513CarelessOh my sweet lady aunt! I was indeed amongst ’em, and deeply merry.
516LadySay and
hold†gs219
refrain (from speech)
, George, for your own good.
517Careless [Aside] What’s now become of me? I am under correction.
518LadyI
would†gg24
wish (that/to)
you could have seen yourself and how your disguise
became†gg1809
befitted, suited
you, as I was told. I do but friendly tell you of some passages
as they were to me related by those whom I have charmed to speak no more on ’t. Be secure, therefore, in your uncle.
520LadyFirst, at the door you
bounced†gg1810
knocked loudly (OED bounce v. 2)
like a giant at the gate of an enchanted castle, before which could be opened, offence was taken
by you at your
sedan-men†gg1811
two men paid to carry a covered chair borne on poles and designed to carry one person
for asking money (as appeared afterwards) more than you brought from the tavern, and leaving their
office†gs220
duty; also possible reference to the sedan chair as a place of business, work space (see OED n. 6a)
fouler by a distempered stomach-full*n1964
i.e. having vomited
than you found it. In the
strife†gg1812
quarrel, conflict
for these sad causes, your sword being seized on, you, being
unable to use it, were found by my servants at
lugs*n1965
As well as 'ear' (n2. 2) the OED also defines 'lug' as meaning a 'long stick or pole' (n1. 1), so it is possible that Careless was scrapping in the dirt with the poles from the sedan chair.
†gg1813
ears (OED n2. 2a)
with your
brace†gg1269
pair, two
of
corse-bearers†gg1814
carriers of the sedan chair ('corse' meaning 'corpse' or living, rather than dead, body)
in the dirt, and their poor
hovel-chair†gg1815
sedan chair, i.e. chair with canopy (see OED, hovel, n1. 3a)
turned
on
his†gg1816
its
ridge in the
kennel†gg1817
gutter (OED n2)
.
522LadyI hope you will say so when you have heard all, George. But, by the way, your
late†gg162
recent
stock†gs221
fund of money, expenses (OED n1. 47)
being spent, here are ten
pieces†gg80
of gold or silver, i.e. money (OED n. 1b)
towards
a
supply†gs222
provision of (needed) funds
.
523CarelessOh sweet
golden aunt*n1966
Careless expresses appreciation for his aunt's kindness by punning on the gold coins she gives him and suggesting that she resembles gold to him (i.e. is most precious) because of the donation.
!
524[Lady]*n1989
There is no speech prefix here in the Octavo text, but the speech obviously belongs to Lady Thrivewell. Instead, the compositor places 'La. before Lady Thrivewell's final question to George.
Well, sir, the strife appeased, you were ta’en in. Then, “Hey, is there no
sack†gg483
white wine from Spain: sack is derived from 'sec', and usually meant a dry white wine; hence Falstaff's enjoyment of 'sack and sugar'
i’ the house?”
“’Tis for you in your chamber” is replied. Up you are had: “Where is the rogue, my man?”
“Not seen since yesterday.” “Fetch me a wench.” “Bless us!” cries old Sim the butler, “we
have none i’ th’ house, nor cannot send for any out o’ doors.” “Dost tell me that? Is not my lady’s
woman, my lady’s chamber-maid, the laundry-maid, the wench under the cook, my lady’s nurse,
old Winterplum*n1967
i.e. Closet, assuming that Careless is referring to her old age and wrinkled skin, like that of plums kept over winter in storage. See also [NOTE n8357].
, nor my lady
herself within? I know, or will know, all the she-things in the house.” But
why me up in your bedroll*n1968
'why do you include me in your list of household women you'd like to take to bed?' The 'roll' is a register of names. Although the OED does not record the meaning of 'bedroll' as bedding until the early 20th century, there is the suggestion of a pun here, perhaps on 'having sex'.
, George?
528LadyNor how you scared
chamber-maid*n1990
An anonymous reader of the British Library control copy inserts a caret and 'the or rather my', but it does not seem essential to the sense of Lady Thrivewell's lines.
, whom I sent in love to see care taken for you, not dreaming of any ill thought in you?
Do you remember how you told her, and what you would give her when your uncle died for a small present
courtesy†gs224
sexual favour
? She was
fain†gs225
glad under the circumstances (OED a. and adv. A 2)
to
satisfy you with a false promise to steal to bed to you, before four men could force or humour you into it.
530Lady’Tis well you consider it now. And still consider, George, how ill excess of wine,
roaring†gg1822
shouting in revelry, behave boisterously (OED v. 1b)
and whoring becomes a gentleman,
and how well sobriety, courtesy, and noble action;
and dangers*n1991
The anonymous previous reader of the British Library control copy inserts 'what' between these two words, but this edition finds that the original makes sense without the emendation.
wait upon the one sort, and what safety accompanies the other!
531CarelessWine, roaring and whoring! I will lay that saying of yours, madam, to my heart. But wine is the great
wheel*n1992
i.e. Fortune's wheel, but also with a possible pun on 'weal', meaning 'wealth, riches, possessions' and 'happiness, prosperity' (OED n1. 1a and 2a).
that sets the
rest
a-whirling*n1993
The circular motion of a wheel, spinning, which ties in with the notion of Fortune's wheel, the wheel of life (OED, whirl, v. 2a). There is also the implication of less controlled, more forceful rapid movement, in line with the effect of wine upon Careless and linked to the proposed pun on 'wheel' as 'weal', so that wine is described as a bounteous gift which brings about an exciting, unpredictable commotion.
.
532LadyTrue, George, for had you not first been
sullied†gg1823
defiled, polluted; with wine, possibly also bearing physical stains on clothing
with wine, you would not have abused yourself to ha’ tumbled in the dirt
with your
litter-mules†gg1824
sedan-chair carriers
, nor offered to seduce my chamber-maid. Suppose you had
overcome†gg1825
physically, overpowered or rendered helpless (with the added implication of rape)
her, how could you have come off but with
shame to yourself and the utter ruin of the poor wench?
533Careless [Aside] Still she corrects me for my meddling with
base†gs226
low (of persons and actions), inferior; unrefined
matters and people. She is not angry, she says;
though I called for her last night i’ my drink, she gives me money. I will now understand her, and whereunto all her former favours
and her later admonitions are directed, and
presently†gg103
immediately (OED adv. 3); without delay
appear a grateful nephew*n1994
Careless's resolve to become serious and 'grateful' would appear to be evident in his face, hence Lady Thrivewell's comment on him looking 'sad'. This is a good opportunity for an actor playing the part to take advantage of the potential for physical comedy Brome has written into the role.
.
534LadyNay, be not sad upon it, George. As I would win you from your faults, I would have you still be cheerful. If any thought troubles you,
you may
be free with me*n1995
Lady Thrivewell encourages Careless to speak openly to her about his troubles, but Careless misinterprets this as an invitation to act without restraint.
, George.
535CarelessOh Madam, you have made me, and now take me to you.
537CarelessFreely and wholly, the truest, faithfull’st servant, and I think the ablest that any lady of your
lacks and longings*n1996
i.e. sexual needs and desires
ever
bestowed a
favour†gs227
sexual favour (also with implication of 'goodwill gesture, kind regard')
on, though I say ’t myself. You’ll swear ’t when you have
tried†gs228
tested (sexually)
me, an’t be but
hourly for a
month together*n1997
i.e. every hour for a continuous month
.
538Lady [Aside] Is the man
sound†gg1826
in good mental health
,
trow*n1998
Either Lady Thrivewell is talking to herself or addressing the audience. A similar example can be found in Chapman's A Humorous Day's Mirth where the Countess is similarly baffled by Lemot, another rather volatile man (Scene 9).
†gs229
I wonder?
?
539CarelessI defy surgeon or the
’pothecary†gg1827
early professional term for a pharmacist, but generally applied in the seventeenth century and earlier to any seller of spices, drugs, preserves, tobacco
can come against me.
540LadySound i’ your senses, sir, I mean.
541CarelessOh, for
blabbing†gg1828
indiscreetly revealing secrets
, madam, never fear me now I am resolved to live soberly and be only yours. And with such pleasure, with such safety,
secrecy, and
fullness†gg1829
completeness, satisfaction, abundance
I will so constantly
supply†gs230
provision of sexual satisfaction
you that you shall not have time to dream of the defects of your old man.
542LadyDo you mean your uncle, and not know whose wrong you unnaturally and sinfully pursue?
543CarelessNo man living, madam, can
do it†gs231
do it: have sex, impregnate
for him more naturally and less sinfully. I am of the same flesh and blood, and bring his youth to
your pleasure. How can you think old uncles’ children are got? Or how came up the proverb,
“She is one of mine aunts”*n1999
Proverbial.
,
do you think? You
would†gg24
wish (that/to)
have a child by him. All your
caudles and cock-broths*n2000
Both aphrodisiacs mentioned in 1.1 when Wat is proposing that he and Careless set up a male brothel [MC 1.1.speech31].
will never do it. An old man’s generative spirit
runs all into brain, and that runs after covetousness too,
gets*n2038
] get (emended following Spove and Parra)
wealth not children. Believe it, much nephew’s help
belongs to it*n2039
i.e. is responsible for the conception of old men's children
,
and then the children are not degenerate. I cannot think but many uncles know it and give way to it because
stranger†gg1847
i.e. from outside the family
bloods
shall not inherit their lands. And so, sweet aunt, if I live not to inherit his, my son may in your first born. There will be a sweet
comfort to you.
545CarelessIn earnest? Yes, and I pray so take it and
let it be a bargain*n2040
Careless picks up on Lady Thrivewell's use of 'earnest', punning on an alternative meaning as an instalment of money, thereby implying she has agreed to his offer to impregnate her. In this 'bargain', money is to be exchanged for Careless's special (familial) commodity, his sperm.
; and now presently in the chamber I will make you my first payment
for the
purchase*n2042
Of sperm. Perhaps this term is used more often when referring to transactions between men and female prostitutes; Careless, in offering himself as a sperm donor to his aunt, is trying (loosely) to disguise his desire to conquer her first as a favour, then as a service of which she has need.
.
546LadyFie,
fie†gg63
exclamation of disgust or reproach
,
you do but say so*n2043
The emphasis is on 'say', so that Lady Thrivewell is astonished that Careless would actually consider acting on his suggestion.
!
547CarelessThat shall be
tried†gg1333
proved or tested by examination
presently. Come, sweet madam, I find you are willing, and I swear I am resolute, and will be as secret as your
own woman. If you will not go, I protest I’ll carry you.
[He picks her up.]
548LadyNay, prithee, George, set me down a little.
549CarelessPsewgh!
I need none o’ these wheezings*n2041
Either Careless is suggesting that his aunt is very heavy, or that he is rather unfit and cannot be bothered to exert himself quite so much.
, I.
550LadyBut prithee tell me, dost thou not all this only to try me, or am I a rogue, think you; or
would’st†gg1848
wishest
thou seriously that thine
own natural uncle, thy bountiful patron, nay,
thy father on the matter*n2044
Presumably because Careless's natural father has died, meaning his uncle is his most senior male relative.
, should suffer such a wrong, and done by us?
551CarelessHark there again. Madam, have I not proved sufficiently and plainly that I shall in doing the feat for him do him the greatest right
in the world, in getting him and you an
indubitable†gg1849
certain, unquestionable
heir, and to give him both the comfort and the glory of it?
552Lady [Aside] Was ever such a reprobate?
553CarelessAnd you can do him no wrong (though you had not a lady’s privilege) to cuckold him, for assure yourself he
cuckqueans†gg1850
(v) for a man to commit adultery and make a cuckquean (female cuckold) of his wife
you.
Now come*n2045
Careless makes repeated efforts to move Lady Thrivewell towards the chamber so that he can have sex with her, but she delays him with her disputatious interjections. This scene requires actors to exploit its physical and verbal comedy.
, madam.
554LadyYou speak not on your knowledge.
555CarelessI never was his pimp,
but what I have heard, I have heard*n2046
Careless puts aside his aunt's questioning of these facts with a suggestive but non-specific response, the equivalent of tapping one's nose to imply secret knowledge.
. Now come, madam.
556LadyI heard Master Saveall protest within these three days that he thought my husband the chastest man (of a gentleman) that he knows.
557CarelessOh, did he so, madam. Believe it, they two have whored together, and that Saveall has pimped for him oftener than you ever lay with
my uncle.
559CarelessWhat else? Saveall is not only his
grave†gg259
serious
parasite†gg136
'A person who lives at the expense of another' (OED n. 1a); flatterer
but his pimp, and has spent my uncle more in these
civil punctual ways*n2047
'Civil' and 'punctual' either describes Saveall's efficient organisation of these affairs, or that visiting prostitutes is a common citizen activity and one regularly carried out by Lord Thrivewell. Perhaps also Careless is trying to couch prostitution in as appealing (and contrary) terms as he can, in order to persuade Lady Thrivewell through verbal argument, since his physical charms and physical movement of her person have not worked.
than I in
all my whole debauches. What did you think he kept him for? Oh, they are a
brace†gg1269
pair, two
of
subtle†gg1852
clever; secretive, sly
dry
tweaks†gg1851
whoremongers (OED n2)
. Come now, madam.
560Lady [Aside] What an inhuman villain’s this!
561CarelessI’ll tell you all now upon our
inward acquaintance*n2048
This is another effort by Careless to guide his aunt into the bedchamber (inward), with perhaps also a sexual reference to what they will do there.
.
562LadyYou have told too much already to have any acquaintance with me at all; nor shall you, unless you presently
recant†gg1853
retract, renounce as erroneous
all that you have
or would have said upon this subject.
564LadyStand further*n2049
get further away from me
and reply not,
lest*n2050
] lesse (emendation follows Parra)
†gg1854
for fear that
I call in those that shall
sadly†gg1855
firmly; seriously
silence you. Have you abused your uncle and the next best friend
you have i’ the world in hope thereby to abuse me most, that was no enemy of yours till now you
justly†gs260
precisely
have provoked me?
565Careless [Aside] I took not a right
course†gg29
way of proceeding, action; also trick, way of gaining money illicitly
.
566LadyWas this the best construction you could make of my love to you, or a fit
requital†gg1856
return for kindness
, to make me an incestuous whore?
567Careless [Aside] Yes, yes, a pox! My course was right enough, but I undertook her at an ill season. Her
spruce†gg1858
smart, lively
springal†gg1857
young man, stripling
left her but now. I’ll tell her so.
[Aloud] Madam*n2052
] so Madam. The original printed text's 'so Madam' suggests that Careless is delivering the line to his aunt and talking about some other female. It makes more sense for the previous lines to have been spoken out of Lady Thrivewell's earshot, so this edition follows Spove and Parra by inserting a full stop before 'Madam'.
*n2051
Given that Lady Thrivewell detects some change in Careless's countenance (see her response to him) it seems that the actor playing his part should make a self-conscious effort to appear regretful, perhaps by lowering his eyes and bowing.
.
568LadyCome, I perceive you are sorry; and that’s a part of
satisfaction†gg276
penance, compensation, atonement
. Therefore, for once I’ll
wink at†gg938
shut your eyes to; ignore
your transgression,
especially before others.
Enter CLOSET*n2055
This is moved from the end of Lady Thrivewell's line since Closet must begin her entrance so that she can be spotted. She could take her time to traverse the stage, thus allowing for her mistress's comment to Careless.
.
Here’s one you see*n2053
Lady Thrivewell refers to Closet as one of the 'others' of her husband's household she might inform of Careless's inappropriate suggestion. The use of 'see' picks up on her promise to close her eyes (wink) to her nephew's behaviour, and Careless himself completes the optical references by cursing Closet's sight.
.
571Lady [Aside to CARELESS] But tempt me so again, and I’ll undo you.
572Careless Aside*n2054
This is placed at the end of the line in the original printed text, but it seems obvious that the line should be directed to characters as designated here.
[to LADY] I know how you’ll undo me, witty madam.
[Aloud] Ah—
573Lady [Aside to CARELESS] Nay, be not sad, George;
discover†gg1416
reveal the truth about, report or give evidence against
not yourself and you are safe for once, I tell you.
574Careless [Aside] She’ll
come about†gg1859
come round (to a person's way of thinking)
, I see.
575Lady [Aloud] But will you,
cousin†gg1220
generally used in speaking to or of kin, whether nephew or actual cousin, or any other relationship by blood or marriage outside the immediate nuclear family
, go and do that for me?
576CarelessMost readily, good madam; I have your full directions.
577LadyAll, cousin, if you forget not.
578CarelessI cannot be so negligent in your service, madam.
[Aside] I find by this
feigned†gg1860
invented
errand she dares not
trust her
trollop†gg1861
untidy or sluttish woman
there. I love her wit now too.
Exit.
579Lady [Aside] He is both
schooled†gg1862
reprimanded; instructed
and cooled, I hope.
[Aloud] Now, Closet, what’s your news?
580ClosetOf a citizen, madam, that entreats to speak with your ladyship.
581LadyDo you not know his name or trade?
582ClosetYes, I had both e’en now, but
I have such a head*n2056
Closet refers to her very bad memory (the head being the seat of the mind and memory) and her inability to remember and deliver messages.
.
583LadyIf you have lost ’em by the way, pray go back and seek ’em, or bring you his
business†gs233
reason for visiting
.
584ClosetI asked his business, madam, and told him he might trust me with it
without a hand to his book*n2057
i.e. without paying Closet any money to deliver the message; possibly also without need to write the message down for Lady Thrivewell to read (because Closet promised to remember it).
, but he said it could not be
delivered but by his own word o’ mouth to your ladyship.
585LadyWhat strange matter is it,
trow†gs229
I wonder?
? Or what citizen? Is not his name Saleware?
586ClosetYes, madam, and he is a — oh, this head — a —
589Lady [Aside] I hope
his impudent wife*n2058
i.e. Alicia, with whom Lady Thrivewell had words earlier (2.1).
has not told him all. If she has, where’s his remedy in this
woman’s law-case?
590ClosetThere’s a
gentlewoman*n2059
] Gentleman (emended following Spove and Parra). It is clear by Lady Thrivewell's conviction (that the companion must be Saleware's wife) that the visitor is female, not male; this suggestion is also made by a previous reader in the British Library control text copy.
with him too, madam.
591Lady [Aside] Then we shall have it. ’Tis his wife, sure. Well, I am prepared for the encounter.
[Aloud] Bid ’em come up.
[CLOSET exits.]
If they grow violent or too bold with me, I’ll set my nephew George upon ’em.
Enter SALEWARE [with a letter and] PHOEBE [crying].
[Aside] ’Tis not his wife.
[Aloud] What creature is it trow†gs234
has trust (in/with)
with me, Master Saleware?*n2060
This line can be interpreted in several ways. Spove's text reads: 'what Creature is it, troe with me, Mr. Saleware?', i.e. be truthful with me. Spove notes: 'Saleware responds immediately with reference to "this poore Kinsewoman of mine"'. Parra (following Knowland) emends to: 'what creature is it, trow?- With me, Master Saleware?' so that the line is split between an aside and direct address to Saleware, as if he were signalling a desire to speak to her. Since 'trow' can also mean 'to have faith or trust in someone', this edition keeps the text closer to the original octavo, so the creature, Phoebe, has come to Lady Thrivewell because she trusts her with a complaint about Careless.
592SalewareCraving your pardon, madam, a few words in the behalf of this poor kinswoman of mine touching a gentleman who I hear lives in your
house, Master George Careless, madam, by whom she has received much injury.
594SalewarePray, madam, read this letter.
[To PHOEBE] Weep not, but hold up thy head,
coz†gg1863
abbreviated form of 'cousin' used both for family members and in the wider sense
. We will
not be dashed
nor bashed†gg1866
abashed, disconcerted
*n2061
This is Saleware's humorous catchphrase, which he repeats throughout the play.
in a good cause.
[To LADY] Pray read you, madam.
595Lady
[She] reads.
I am now, lady, in favour with my uncle and in fair possibility of a good estate, deporting†gg1864
behaving
myself (I intend to do) a civil gentleman.
To which end (induced as well by reason as by long continued affections) I tender†gs235
offer for formal acceptance
myself to you in the holy condition of marriage.
If you vouchsafe†gg496
'to show a gracious readiness or willingness, to grant readily, to condescend or deign, to do something' (OED v. 6b)
your consent, (which is my most earnest request) I shall not only declare myself a good husband, but the most
happy, George Careless.
Wherein appears the injury to your kinswoman?*n2063
Spoken by Saleware in the original text, followed by the next speech too (as there are two 'Sal.' speech prefixes). This edition re-allocates it to Lady Thrivewell (as do Spove and Parra).
596SalewareIn
flying†gg1865
running away, fleeing
from his
word and deed*n2064
i.e. his promise. These words are included in part of the order of service where the congregation confess that they have sinned.
, madam. He has borne her in hand these two years and
used*n2065
] use
her at his pleasure, detaining her from
her choice of many good fortunes, and at last sends her this
[indicating the letter] to make amends for all, and denies his act the next day, sending his man to
take the letter from her, pretending ’twas directed to another.
[To PHOEBE] But
never the sooner for
a hasty word*n2066
Another of Saleware's catchphrases, which attempts to be reassuring and comforting.
, cousin; we will not be dashed nor bashed, I warrant thee.
597LadyHere’s the
direction†gg1867
addressee (of a letter)
: “To the lily-white hands of Mistress Mariana
Gimcrack†gg134
'An affected showy person', used contemptuously of women (OED n. and a. 3)
”. Is that your name, lady?
598PhoebeI am the sorrowful one that is known by it, madam.
[Begins to weep]
599Saleware [To PHOEBE] Never the sooner for a hasty word, cousin.
600LadyI conceive the business and find the error, and my great doubt is over.
602LadyWhat would you have me do, Master Saleware?
603SalewareYou have discretion, madam, and I made choice of your ladyship to open this matter unto you, rather than to Sir Oliver himself,
whom I would not willingly exasperate against his nephew. You may be pleased in a milder way to temper him, and work a satisfaction
for my kinswoman. Sir Oliver and yourself, madam, are noble customers to my shop, and for your sakes I would not deal rigorously with
your kinsman if a gentle end may be made. But, if you cannot so compound it, the law lies open; money and friends are to be found; a
good cause shall not be starved; I will not be dashed nor bashed.
Sapientia mea mihi*n157
'My wisdom to me, your folly to you' (Horace, Oxford Dictionary of Quotations).
is my
word†gs162
a saying or proverb (OED 10b); motto
, and so,
good madam, you know my mind.
604Lady’Tis pity a gentlewoman should suffer too much, and I like her so well at first sight that I am easily moved to do good for her.
Is she your kinswoman in blood, Master Saleware, or your wife’s?*n2067
Perhaps Lady Thrivewell wouldn’t feel so moved to help Phoebe if she were related to Alicia rather than Saleware.
605SalewareMine, I assure your ladyship, though my wife can boast as great and noble friends, I thank fortune, as the wife of any tradesman
that carries a head in the city, (but that’s by the by) yet I came of a better house, and am a gentleman born, none dispraised.
606LadyWell, Master Saleware, leave your kinswoman with me a little while; you shall not be seen in my act. I’ll try what I can do
for her.
607SalewareWith all my heart, good madam.
[To PHOEBE] And d’ye hear,
Mariana*n2068
] Marina
, this is a noble lady.
Bear yourself discreetly in the business and towards her: you may get a husband by’t, or at least a
composition†gs236
sum of money paid for the settlement of a claim (OED 25b)
that may purchase
one to
shoulder you up†gg1868
support
. But carry it high and worthy of the house I brag of, or — Sapientia mea mihi,
stultitia tua tibi. That’s my
sentence†gg1869
opinion, judgement; saying, motto
.
608PhoebeWell, sir, you need not doubt my high
carriage†gs186
morally upright behaviour
.
Enter CLOSET.
611LadyTake this gentlewoman to your chamber, and I charge you let none see her or take notice of her but yourself and me, till I give order.
CLOSET exit[s with PHOEBE].*n3923
] Exit Closet.
I shall do something for her, doubt not, Master Saleware.
LADY exits.*n3923
] Exit Closet.
612SalewareI shall be bound to your ladyship. Now to my shop, to which I thank my wife she has been a
wild cat†gg1870
applied to a savage or spiteful person
these two days — which must be
borne with as we are friends — and
from†gs237
away from
my house all night, and yet no
green-goose fair-time*n2069
Goose fairs were held around Michaelmas when young geese were in season (and the name still survives for one Nottingham fair). There are likely links to extra-marital sexual activity (because strangers would be coming into the city of London, so there would be plenty of opportunity during this exciting and disruptive time), suggesting that Alicia has spun her husband a line to explain her absence from the house, of whose true meaning he is innocent. Perhaps she spends more time away from the shop at the fair, buying items for the shop or their personal use, hobnobbing with traders or higher class citizens who have come to the fair from areas outside of London.
. Nor though she were so absent must I be
so unfriendly as to question her where or with whom she was. A new
article†gg1871
matter, piece of business; (with its roots in legal contracts) stipulation (with indirect reference to the marriage contract); originally, joints between parts of the body, as man and wife are joined together as one body by the church
this ’twixt man and wife! But
Sapientia mea mihi, stultitia sua sibi*n2070
My wisdom to me, her folly to her (see [NOTE n157]).
.
Thus it must be where man and wife are friends, and will continue so in spite of chance, or
high-heeled shoes*n3686
Fashionable from the early-seventeenth century onwards, the heels could be made of leather, wood or cork.
, that will awry sometimes with any women.
The shop discovered*n2071
The revelation of a shop, possibly by drawing back a curtain or opening a door to reveal the scene behind. This scene might be set up in the discovery space (perhaps also used in 2.1). There are many references to shop scenes being 'discovered' in Renaissance drama, for example in A Chaste Maid in Cheapside 1.1 and The Case Is Altered 1.1. Other 'discovered' locations include studies, tombs and altars.
, [with] ALICIA [wearing new clothes] and BELLAMY [inside].
She is not yet come home here.
What lady’s that*n2072
Saleware doesn't recognise his wife in her new clothes and thinks she must be a customer waiting to be served.
, and not my wife there to handle her handsomely for her money? My servants are such
asinegos†gg1984
fools
!
Stay†gs238
wait
, are mine eyes perfect? ’Tis she; ’tis my friend-wife, and in the courtly habit, which so long she has
longed for. And my Lord Lovely’s
Ganymede*n2073
] Gammed. The octavo's 'Gammed' could either be intended as a mispronunciation by Saleware, or is a compositorial error. Parra alters to 'Ganymed', but Spove does not (though glosses the meaning). The allusion is to Bellamy, perhaps as a clue as to 'his' true gender. The OED defines 'Ganymede' as 'A cupbearer, a youth who serves out liquor; humorously, a pot-boy', with scandalous associations (according to Spove, Walley). That Saleware describes Bellamy as 'Lord Lovely's Ganymede' adds an extra layer of sexual innuendo, since the OED also defines the name as referring to a catamite (OED 2). Of course, we learn that Alicia wishes to be Bellamy's sexual partner (as well as Lord Lovely's) though she is unlikely to get very far given Bellamy's true gender. Secondly, and because of this, Bellamy cannot technically be Lord Lovely's catamite, even though s/he has been his sexual partner in the past and wishes to be so again (hoping for marital blessing on their union); Lord Lovely, on the other hand, has no desire for this to happen, and makes his situation very clear in the final scene of the play.
with her. His lordship lay not at home tonight, neither at his lodging. I heard that by
the way. I cannot think my lord and she both sat up all night to see the tailors at work, and to hasten the finishing of those clothes,
if she were with him, which I would not be so unfriendly to enquire for the worth of a wife. ’Twas right honourably done of him
to send her home as gallantly attended as attired, if she
did*n2074
] die (emended following Spove and Parra). Spove rightly points out that despite this emendation the original could be retained with a pun on the sexual sense of ‘die’ (thus betraying Saleware’s anxieties about being cuckolded, as well as producing an amusing mix up for the audience).
— a — a — lie with him all night, which I will not be such
a beast to believe although I knew it. I must
come on†gs239
come on: approach, advance towards (for discussion)
her with a little wit though, for which I will
precogitate†gg1872
consider in advance
.
[SALEWARE observes ALICIA and BELLAMY while they talk]*n2075
Saleware is on stage during the following conversation but does not overhear his wife with Bellamy as he is considering his 'wit'.
613AliciaOnce more your story, for I am not satisfied with
thrice†gg1873
three times (in succession)
being told it.
614BellamyCan a woman take so much delight in hearing of
another woman’s pleasure taken*n2076
The taking of pleasure refers to having sexual intercourse, and Bellamy had previously been instructed by Alicia to give Lady Thrivewell pleasure. Now she is enjoying his account of this conquest, partly because it means she has proof of Lady Thrivewell's infidelity (with which to retaliate for the bargaining in 2.1 of the £100 intended for sexual favours, which Lady Thrivewell has taken in stock from the shop).
?
615AliciaAs it was given by you, I can, for I am prepared by it to take pleasure from you, and shall with greediness expect it till I have it.
616BellamyThen know I pleased her so, that she protested — and I believe her — her husband never pleased her so.
617AliciaOr any other man?*n2077
Alicia is trying to extract further information with which to blackmail Lady Thrivewell.
You should ha’ put her to that. Her husband’s but a
bungler†gg1874
clumsy person
.
619AliciaI do but guess*n2078
Alicia quickly has to cover her mistake, as Bellamy picks up the hint that she knows what Lady Thrivewell's husband is like in bed by stating he is a 'bungler'. The audience knows that Alicia's knowledge comes from first-hand experience of sleeping with Oliver Thrivewell for money.
.
620BellamyNay, she swore deeply — and I believed her there too — no man besides her husband but myself had e’er enjoyed her.
But let me tell you, lady, as she was amply pleased, she may thank you.
621AliciaFor sending you, I know she did, and will.
622BellamyThat was the first respect, but not the greatest. For in our act of love, our first and second act—
624BellamyIn real deed; I can speak now like an
emboldened†gg1875
encouraged, bolder
lover.
625AliciaWell, but what in your acts of love?
626BellamyI had you still in my imagination, and that enabled me to be more grateful to her ladyship, which wrought her thankfulness to you,
expressed in a
hundred pieces*n2079
i.e. £100 (a 'piece' being a coin) given by Lady Thrivewell for Bellamy's services
sent by me, more than I
told†gg1876
counted
before, which are your own, she says, since
tother†gs240
the other
morning she was here
with you.
627Alicia [Aside] That token confirms all. Had I the spirit of witchcraft, when putting upon chance for my revenge, to find reward?
[Aloud] Have you the money?
629AliciaOh, you are cunning:
lest*n2050
] lesse (emendation follows Parra)
I should break with you, you thought to oblige me by’t.
630BellamyI’ll rather run and fetch you twice the sum. I concealed it only to give it you unexpectedly.
631AliciaSweet Bellamy, I am yours. I could be sorry now I have lost so much of thee.
[She kisses him.]
This kiss, and name your time—
632Saleware [Aside] Would they had done whispering once*n2080
Saleware's comment exposes the metatheatricality implied in the staging of this scene: Alicia and Bellamy are in the shop within the discovery space, so their 'whispers' have to pass the actor playing Saleware in order to reach the audience. There is added comedy in the fact that Alicia has clearly just kissed Bellamy, i.e. they are not simply whispering.
, that I might enter
safe in my manners*n2081
i.e. without interrupting anything
.
634AliciaShall you be ready so soon think you after your plentiful
lady-feast†gg1877
love-making (with a woman)
?
635BellamyOh, with all fullness both of delight and appetite.
636AliciaAnd with all faith and secrecy; I am undone else. You know my vows unto my lord.
637BellamyAnd can you think I dare be found your
mean†gg1878
(n) mediator (OED n3)
to break ’em.
638Alicia [Seeing SALEWARE] No more; my husband comes.
[Aloud] Pray, sir, return my
thanks unto my lord for his right noble bounty, and not mine alone, for so my husband in much duty bound also presents his thanks unto
his lordship.
641SalewareHe is my most honoured lord, and has so many ways obliged me both by my wife and in mine own particular that—
643SalewareStill†gg410
always; continually; ever; on every occasion
this is an
asinego†gg388
little ass; fool
. I can never get him to stand a conference or a
compliment†gg837
greeting
with me. Sapientia mea mihi.
What was that, friend, you made me send thanks for to his lordship? What new favour has he done us, besides his counsel? These clothes —
the cost was mine, you told me, out of the odd hundred pound you took. What
late†gg162
recent
honour has he done us?
644AliciaIs’t not enough I know, friend? Will you ever
transgress†gg1879
offend, disobey (a rule of conduct)
in your impertinent inquisitions?
645SalewareI cry you mercy, friend; I am corrected justly.
646AliciaWill you never be governed by my judgement, and receive that only fit for you to understand, which I deliver to you undemanded? Do not
I know
the weight of your floor*n2082
Spove suggests that Alicia is implying she is their home's foundation.
, think you? Or do it you on purpose to infringe friendship or break the peace you live in?
647SalewareNever the sooner for a hasty word, I hope, friend.
648AliciaDid you not
covenant†gg1724
formally contract
with me that I should wear what I pleased, and what my lord liked; that I should be as lady-like as I
would†gs241
wish
,
or as my lord desired; that I should come and go at mine own pleasure, or as my lord required; and that we should be always friends
and call so, not after the silly manner of citizen and wife, but in the high courtly way?
649SalewareAll this, and what you please, sweet courtly friend, I grant as I love courtship. It
becomes†gg1880
suits, befits, is proper
thee
bravely†gg141
worthily; fearlessly; splendidly, handsomely (OED)
.
650AliciaOh, does it so?*n2083
An actor playing Alicia could turn around to show off her new clothes at this point.
651SalewareAnd I am highly honoured, and shall grow
fat†gs242
well-fed, wealthy, well-stocked
by the envy of my
repining†gg704
grudging, grumbling
neighbours that cannot maintain their wives so like court-ladies.
Some perhaps, not knowing we are friends, will say ‘She’s but Tom Saleware’s wife, and she comes by this gallantry the lord
knows how’, or so. But Sapientia mea mihi, let the asinegos
prate†gg1882
chatter, talk foolishly, gossip
while others shall admire thee, sitting
in thy shop more glorious than the
maiden-head in the Mercers’ arms*n2084
The maiden appears in the Worshipful Company of Mercers' coat of arms from as early as 1425, with long loose hair, a crown upon her head, sitting within a patterned border which could parallel the framing of Alicia in her shop (as well as that of the discovery space in the theatrical setting). There are obvious similarities between this image and that of Elizabeth I, the Virgin Queen, particularly in her coronation painting, which points painfully to the Salewares' abhorrent social climbing, and the irony of both this and Alicia's virtue. This is compounded by the image of Alicia sitting in the shop, advertising her 'wares', i.e. sexual favours, like a high class court prostitute. Francis Lenton's Characterismi provides a strikingly similar description of a 'Sempster Shopkeeper': 'Shee is very neatly spruc'd vp, and placed in the frontispice of her shop, of purpose, (by her curious habit) to allure some Custome, which still encraseth and decreaseth as her beauty is in the full, or the wane. Shee hath a pretty faculty in presenting herselfe to the view of Passengers, by her rolling eyes, glancing through the hangings of Tiffany and Cobweb-lawne, that the Trauellers are suddenly surprized, and cannot but looke backe' (E4). Modern directors and actors can gain an insight into the performance of Alicia's character from this detailed description.
, and say, ‘There is the
nonpareil†gg1881
unrivalled, unequalled person
, the
paragon†gg1883
model of quality, value or merit
of the city,
the
flower-de-luce†gg1884
fleur-de-lis: heraldic lily usually used on the French royal arms; also the name of four known taverns in London (see [NOTE n158])
of Cheapside, the shop court-lady, or the
courtshop mistress*n2085
Saleware's title for Alicia unwittingly describes her just as the image of the Mercers' arms does: as a high class prostitute or mistress advertising in a shop.
’, ha, my sweet courtly friend?
652AliciaHow do you talk? As if you meant to instruct ’em to abuse me.
654AliciaTo prevent that I will remove out of their
walk†gg1885
path, way
and keep shop no more.
655SalewareNever the less for a hasty word I hope, friend.
656AliciaFie, ’tis uncourtly. And now I’ll tell you, friend, unasked, what I have done for you besides in my late absence,
and all under
one†gg1886
one category
.
657Saleware [Aside] Under one!*n2086
Saleware identifies a pun on 'under' as 'lying beneath'.
Yes, I could tell her under whom if I
durst†gg219
dared
.
658AliciaWhat’s that you say, friend? Methinks you mutter.
659SalewareNo, friend, I was guessing what that other thing might be that you have done for me, ‘all under one’. You have taken the house,
I’ll warrant, that my lord liked so.
660AliciaBy my lord’s favour and direction I have taken it, and I will furnish it so courtly you’ll admire.
661SalewareMust I then give up shop, or
lie so far remote*n2087
sleep so far away (from the shop); presumably the house is in another part of the city
?
662AliciaNo, you must keep your shop, friend, and lie here if you please.
664AliciaNo, not with me at all, friend; that were most
uncourtly†gg1887
unrefined; unlike Court habits
.
665SalewareBut I shall have a chamber in your house, and next to yours. Then in my gown and slippers, friend, at midnight— or the
first cock*n2088
possible pun on an early morning erection (unintended by Saleware)
—
666AliciaSoftly for stumbling*n2089
Alicia warns her husband to be more careful (and less eager) for fear of making a mistake, but really to dissuade him from the idea of having a bedroom next to her's in the new house.
, friend. I’ll do you any honourable offices with my lord, as by obtaining
suits†gg1888
(n) petitions, requests
for you, for which you
must look out and find what you may fitly beg out of his power and by courtly favour. But keep your shop still, friend, and my lord
will bring and send you such custom that your neighbours shall envy your wealth and not your wife. You shall have such
comings in†gg1252
income (OED, coming, vbl. n1. 7c)
abroad†gg896
out and about
and at home that you shall be the first
head†gg367
position of superiority
nominated i’ the next sheriff season. But I with my lord will keep you from
pricking*n2090
'Pricking' was the method by which new representatives were chosen, by marking their name on a piece of paper; perhaps Alicia is threatening Saleware that if he does not agree to the plan, she and Lovely will prevent him from being elected.
. Be you a citizen still, friend; ’tis enough I am courtly.
667Saleware [Aside] Here’s a new courtly humour. I see no remedy, unless I run myself out of credit, defy the
life of a citizen, and turn courtly too.
668AliciaWhat’s that you say? Do you not mutter now, friend?
669SalewareNo, not a syllable, friend. But may not I give up shop and turn courtly too, friend?
670AliciaAs you respect my lord and your own profit, you must be a citizen still, and I am no more a citizen’s wife else; and she must
be a citizen’s wife that
must*n2091
] wust
do all in all with my lord friends. Though my lord loves the clothes of the court, he loves the
diet of the city best, friend. Whatever I wear outwardly, he must find me citizen’s wife, which, friend — Oh, he’s a
sweet lord.
671SalewareWell, it shall be then as the sweet lord will have it. Sapientia mea mihi.
They exit.*n3895
] Exeunt omnes
Edited by Eleanor Lowe