Ra_.
_Mer_. Let others suppe, ile make a bloudier feast
Then ever yet was drest in _Merryes_ house.
Be like thy selfe then, have a merrie hart,
Thou shalt have gold to mend thy povertie,
And after this live ever wealthilie.
_Then Merry must passe to Beeches shoppe,
who must sit in his shop, and Winchester
his boy stand by: Beech reading_.
What, neighbour _Beech_, so godly occupied?
_Beech_. I, maister _Merry_; it were better reade,
Then meditate on idle fantasies.
_Mer_. You speake the trueth; there is a friend or two
Of yours making merry in my house,
And would desire to have your company.
_Beech_. Know you their names?
_Mer_. No truely, nor the men.
I never stoode to question them of that,
But they desire your presence earnestlie.
_Beech_. I pray you tell them that I cannot come,
Tis supper time, and many will resort
For ware at this time, above all other times;
Tis Friday night besides, and Bartholomew eve,
Therefore good neighbour make my just excuse.
_Mer_. In trueth they told me that you should not stay,
Goe but to drinke, you may come quick againe,--
But not and if my hand and hammer hold.
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