Lord Title.
You were born to help increase the world.
Poor Virtue.
The world needs no increase, there are too many creatures al∣ready, especially mankinde; for there are more than can live quietly in the world; for I perceive, the more populous, the more vicious.
Lord Title.
'Tis strange you should be so young, so fair, so witty as you are, and yet so melancholy; thy poverty cannot make it, for thou never knewest the pleasure of riches.
Poor Virtue.
Melancholy is the only hopes I do rely upon, that though I am poor, yet that may make me wise; for fools are most commonly mer∣riest, because they understand not the follies that dwell therein, nor have e∣nough considerations of the unhappiness of man, who hath endless desires, unprofitable travels, hard labours, restless hours, short pleasures, tedious pains, little delights, blasted joys, uncertain lives, and decreed deaths; and what is mirth good for? it cannot save a dying friend, nor help a ruined Kingdome, nor bring in plenty to a famished Land; nor quench out ma∣lignant Plagues; nor is it a ward to keep misfortunes off, though it may tri∣umph on them.
Lord Title.
But you a young Maid, should do as young Maids do, seek out the company of young Men.
Poor Virtue.
Young Maids may save themselves that labour, for Men will seek out them, or else you would not be sitting here with me.
Lord Title.
And are you not pleas'd with my company?
Poor Virtue.
What pleasure can there be in fears?
Lord Title.
Are you afraid of me?
Poor Virtue.
Yes truly; for the ill example of men, corrupts the good principles in women: But I fear not the perverting of my Vertue, but mens incivilities.
Lord Title.
They must be very rudely bred, that give you not respect, you being so very modest.
Poor Virtue.
'Tis not enough to be chastly modest and honest, but as a ser∣vant to my Mr. and Mrs. I must be dutiful, and careful to their commands, and on their employments they have put to me: wherefore I must leave you Sir, and go fold my sheep.
Lord Title.
I will help you.
Exeunt.