WIFE. Which way, were that wisdom? prythee, wench, to whom? LEO. To him that makes all whole again--my lord. To one that, if he be a kind, good husband, Will let you bear no more than you are able. WIFE. Thou know'st not what thou speakest; why, my lord's he That gives him the house's freedom, all his boldness-- Keeps him o' purpose here to war with me. LEO. Now I hold wiser of my lord than so: He knows the world; he would not be so idle. WIFE. I speak sad truth to thee; I am not private In mine own chamber, such his impudence is: Nay, my repenting-time is scarce bless'd from him-- He will offend my prayers. LEO. Out upon him! I believe, madam, he's of no religion. WIFE. He serves my lord, and that's enough for him: And preys upon poor ladies like myself-- There's all the gentleman's devotion. LEO. Marry, the devil of hell give him his blessing! WIFE. Pray, watch the door, and suffer none to trouble us, Unless it be my lord. LEO. 'Twas finely spoke, that! My lord indeed is the most trouble to her. Now must I show a piece of service here: How do I spend my days? shall I never Get higher than a lady's doorkeeper? I must be married (as my lady is) first, And then my maid may do as much for me. [_Aside._ WIFE. O miserable time! except my lord Do wake in honourable pity to me, And rid this vicious gamester from his house. Whom I have check'd so often: here I vow I'll imitate my noble sister's fate, Late mistress to the worthy Govianus, And cast away my life, as she did hers. _Enter_ VOTARIUS _to the door within_. LEO. Back, you're too forward, sir! there's no coming for you. VOT. How, Mistress Len, my lady's smock-woman, Am I no further in your duty yet? LEO. Duty! look for't of them you keep under, sir. VOT. You'll let me in? LEO. Who would you speak withal? VOT. Why, the best lady you make courtesy to. LEO. She will not speak with you. VOT. Have you her mind? I scorn to take her answer of her broker. LEO. Madam? WIFE. What's there? How now, sir, what's your business? We see your boldness plain. VOT. I came to see you, madam. WIFE. Farewell, then! though 'twas impudence too much, When I was private. VOT. Madam! WIFE. He was born To beggar all my patience. VOT. I'm bold Still to prefer my love; your woman hears me not. WIFE. Where's modesty and honour? Have I not thrice Answer'd thy lust? LEO. By'r lady, I think oft'ner. [_Aside._ WIFE. And darest thou yet look with temptation on us? Since nothing will prevail, come, death--come, vengeance-- I will forget the weakness of my kind, And force thee from my chamber.