In the very height of these my jollities, I cou’d not forbear thinking sometimes on my eternal condition; but custome and opportunity had so absolutely inslaved me, that good thoughts which were but seldom, wrought little good effects upon me. But if my souls welfare would not deter me from these foul and wicked acts, yet love to my present mortall condition, compelled me for a while to desist, and by flying those embraces I lately so hotly pursued, shun those complicated mischiefs which were appropinquant, the undeniable effects of my immoderate and destructive wantonness. My approaching danger was too visible, for I observed that some of the Gentlewomen began to find strange alterations in their bodies, with frequent qualms coming over their stomacks, which made me sick to be gone; and in this manner I did plot my escape. My Mistris having a Son much about my stature, and one time finding a fit opportunity, I got a suit of cloaths of his, with other perquisits, which I put on, reassuming my proper shape and habit, and so with flying colours marched off, insulting over the conquest of so many Maiden-heads, leaving the _quondam_ possessors thereof to deplore their ensuing misery, and condemn their own rash folly. [Illustration] CHAP. XIV. _What a Trick he served a young man of his Acquaintance, whom he met withal accidentally; how he was pinched with hunger, and what wayes he invented to kill it._ I made all the speed I could to _London_, knowing the largeness of that Vast City would afford conveniency for my concealment. But then my cloaths much troubled me, knowing nothing would betray me sooner than they. Whilst I was studying all imaginable wayes for my preservation, such an opportunity presented it self, that therein it was plainly seen the Fates had decreed of old to favour my enterprizes. As I said, walking the streets, and ruminating what was best to be done, I met with a young Man of my acquaintance, who seeing me, ran and caught me in his Arms, and with very much joy we congratulated each other, and so as is usual when Friends meet we must drink together. Over our cups, I began to inquire after his condition: He shook his head, and so related to me a sad story, which in effect was to this purpose in his own words.