University of Virginia Library

Epig. XXV. In Malbellam.

Mistris Malbella beares away the bell,
And doth more holland, Lawne and cambrick sell,
Then all her neighbours, not because her stall
Shewes better ware, or boyes doe lowder call,
What lack yee Gentlemen? but for her faire
Is farre prefer'd before their better ware;
For no spur-gingle gentle Paphian Knight,
Walkes by her sent-sweet shop for his delight,
Will passe, if shee be obiect of his eye,
She absent, boyes may say, what will you buy?
What lack you? but in vaine, monie appeares not,
Gallants are deafe, custome goes by and heares not.
No ware's there vendible, or worth a rush,
Except Malbella be the Iuie bush.