University of Virginia Library

SCENE I.

Penelope and Ulysses.
Pen.
If there is Ought besides my House affords,
Call for it freely, Friend, and make no Words.
No longer meanly beg from Door to Door,
You're welcome here upon my Husband's Score.

Ulys.
I doubly thank you for this Bounty shown,
Both on my Friend's Account, and on my own.
O! how I'm pleas'd to see such Virtues wait
On one who lives in such an humble State!
How few, alas! the Wives of high Degree,
Who live to Rules of Abstinence like Thee!
For twenty Years can keep their nuptial Vows,
And present Lovers slight for absent Spouse!
You mind your household Cares, attend your Trade,
Nor ever think upon the Masquerade,
Oblige your Customers, can make a Bill,
And waste no Time at Ombre or Quadrille.