_Plays have their fates, not as in their true sence_ _They're understood, but as the influence_ _Of idle custom, madly works upon_ _The dross of many tongu'd opinion._ _A worthy story, howsoever writ_ _For Language, modest Mirth, Conceit or Wit,_ _Meets oftentimes with the sweet commendation_ _Of hang't, 'tis scurvy, when for approbation_ _A Jigg shall be clapt at, and every rhime_ _Prais'd and applauded by a clamorous chime._ _Let ignorance and laughter dwell together,_ _They are beneath the Muses pity. Hither_ _Come nobler Judgements, and to those the strain_ _Of our invention is not bent in vain,_ _The_ Fair Maid of the Inn _to you commends_ _Her hopes and welcomes, and withal intends_ _In th' Entertains to which she doth invite ye,_ _All things to please, a[n]d some things to delight ye._ Actus Primus. Scæna Prima. _Enter_ Cesario, _and_ Clarissa. _Cesario._ Interpret not _Clarissa_, my true zeal In giving you counsel, to transcend the bounds That should confine a brother; 'tis your honor, And peace of mind (which honor last will leave you) I labor to preserve, and though you yet are Pure and untainted, and resolve to be so: Having a Fathers eye, and Mothers care In all your ways to keep you fair, and upright. In which respects my best advices must Appear superfluous; yet since love, dear Sister Will sometimes tender things unnecessary, Misconstrue not my purpose. _Claris._ Sir, I dare not: But still receive it as a large addition, To the much that I already stand ingag'd for, Yet pardon me, though I profess upon A true examination of my self, Even to my private thoughts I cannot find (Having such strong supporters to uphold me) On what slight ground the least doubt can be rais'd To render me suspected, I can fall, Or from my Fame or Virtue. _Cæsar._ Far be it from me, To nourish such a thought; and yet excuse me, As you would do a Lapidary, whose whole fortunes Depend upon the safety of one Jewel, If he think no case precious enough To keep it in full lustre, nor no locks, Though lending strength to Iron doors sufficient To guard it, and secure him; you to me are A Gemm of more esteem, and priz'd higher Than Usurers do their Muck, or great men Title. And any flaw (which heaven avert) in you, (Whose reputation like a Diamond Cut newly from the rock, women with envie, And men with covetous desires look up at) By prying eies discovered in a moment Would render what the braveries of _Florence_ For want of counterpoize, forbear to cheapen, Of little or no value.