The works of John Dryden, $c now first collected in eighteen volumes. $p Volume 06 by John Dryden
page 93 of 643 (14%)
page 93 of 643 (14%)
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_Mrs Term._ O father, I think I shall go mad.
_Aldo._ You are of the violentest temper, daughter Termagant! When had you a business last? _Mrs Term._ The last I had was with young Caster, that son-of-a-whore gamester: he brought me to taverns, to draw in young cullies, while he bubbled them at play; and, when he had picked up a considerable sum, and should divide, the cheating dog would sink my share, and swear,--Damn him, he won nothing. _Aldo._ Unconscionable villain, to cozen you in your own calling! _Mrs Term._ When he loses upon the square, he comes home zoundsing and blooding; first beats me unmercifully, and then squeezes me to the last penny. He has used me so, that, Gad forgive me, I could almost forswear my trade. The rogue starves me too: He made me keep Lent last year till Whitsuntide, and out-faced me with oaths it was but Easter. And what mads me most, I carry a bastard of the rogue's in my belly; and now he turns me off, and will not own it. _Mrs Over._ Lord, how it quops! you are half a year gone, madam.-- [_Laying her hand on her belly._ _Mrs Term._ I feel the young rascal kicking already, like his father.--Oh, there is an elbow thrusting out: I think, in my conscience, he is palming and topping in my belly; and practising for a livelihood, before he comes into the world. _Aldo._ Geoffery, set her down in the register, that I may provide her |
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