Bonds and conditions I forbore to ask; "I laid no traps for thee, no plots or plans, Nor marriage named by licence or by banns; Nor would I now the parson's aid employ, But for this cause"--and up she held her boy. 310 Motives like these could heart of flesh resist? James took the infant and in triumph kiss'd; Then to his mother's arms the child restored, Made his proud speech, and pledged his worthy word. "Three times at church our banns shall publish'd be, Thy health be drunk in bumpers three times three; And thou shalt grace (bedeck'd in garments gay) The christening-dinner on the wedding day." James at my door then made his parting bow, Took the Green-Man, and is a master now. 320 LETTER XII. _PLAYERS._ These are monarchs none respect; Heroes, yet an humbled crew; Nobles, whom the crowd correct; Wealthy men, whom duns pursue; Beauties, shrinking from the view Of the day's detecting eye; Lovers, who with much ado Long-forsaken damsels woo, And heave the ill-feign'd sigh. These are misers, craving means Of existence through the day; Famous scholars, conning scenes Of a dull bewildering play; Ragged beaux and misses grey, Whom the rabble praise and blame; Proud and mean, and sad and gay, Toiling after ease, are they, Infamous[63], and boasting fame. Players arrive in the Borough--Welcomed by their former Friends--Are better fitted for Comic than Tragic Scenes: yet better approved in the latter by one Part of their Audience--Their general Character and Pleasantry--Particular Distresses and Labours--Their Fortitude and Patience--A private Rehearsal--The Vanity of the aged Actress--A Heroine from the Milliner's Shop--A deluded Tradesman--Of what Persons the Company is composed--Character and Adventures of Frederick Thompson. LETTER XII. _PLAYERS._