Playes written by the thrice noble, illustrious and excellent princess, the Lady Marchioness of Newcastle.

Scene 6.

Enter Sir Henry Sage, and the Lady Chastity his Wife.

SAge.

VVife, thou art false.

Chastity.

'Tis strange to hear you say so, when but yesterday you made me such protestations of your Faith, believing I was Virtuous, Chaste, and full of Truth, which I did think Time had not power to alter your belief, and such Vows and Protestations of your Affections to me, as if the fire of Love within your heart did burn so clear, and flame so high, as nought could quench it out but Death's cold damps, yet not so much, but still a heat with∣in the ashes would remain.

Sage.

I confess, VVife, my doubts of Love did make me to try, at least to say so to you.

Chastity.

True Love never makes doubts; and though you can dissemble with me, I cannot dissemble with you, could the Gods command me, as they cannot, things unjust.

Sage.

I perceive you are angry, VVife.

Chastity.

No truly Husband, I am rather griev'd than angry, to think my honest truth mistrusted: for Doubts are unjust to great Affections, true Love, and good Intentions; and Examinations are scandalous to a strict chaste life, and makes it seem as criminal: but could the VVorld lay fals∣hood to your charge, and should condemn you, yet my Affections would set you free, and rather tax my self for want of Merit to deserve your Love, than you want love to give Desert.

Sage.

Prethee VVife be not griev'd nor angry, for 'tis natural for Love to be suspicious: wherefore pray forgive my doubts.

Chastity.

My nature is to forgive, and not to bear a grudge or spleen in minde.

Sage.

Then we are friends again.

Chastity.

My love is still the same, not to be alter'd.

Exeunt.