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The Scourge of Folly

Consisting of satyricall Epigrams, And others in honour of many noble Persons and worthy friends, together, with a pleasant (though discordant) Descant upon most English Proverbs and others [by John Davies]

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Vpon English Prouerbs.
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138

Vpon English Prouerbs.

1

[The Faire lasts all the yeare: so Londons doth]

The Faire lasts all the yeare: so Londons doth;
And yet most fovvly lyes each House, and Booth:
Which fovvly lye, to vent their Marchandize;
Then, better t'vvere it ly'de not as it lyes:
Or, that an hovvre the Faire might fully end;
So, should the Faire (though fowle) the lesse offend.

2

[The weake goes to the Wall: Then, Lesbia's fraile]

The weake goes to the Wall: Then, Lesbia's fraile:
For, still against the vvall men run her (Iail)

3

[Lalus the Iudge sets foote in Malus Cause]

Lalus the Iudge sets foote in Malus Cause;
Thus with his foote, the Beast still handles Lawes.

4

[The blind eates many a Fly: It's true indeede]

The blind eates many a Fly: It's true indeede;
And so may Seers do for want of heede:
For he that writes the Bible in a Nutt,
Hath married with a light, and filthy slutt.

5

[Little or nothing said, soone mended is]

Little or nothing said, soone mended is:
But, they that nothing do, do most amisse.

139

6

[Strike when the Iron is hott: Then Quintus, loe]

Strike when the Iron is hott: Then Quintus, loe,
Thy whore (that can (like Iron) all heates, endure)
Is now made hott; yet, strike her not too low,
Least shee giue thee a clappe, thou can'st not cure.

7

[Phrina (hot whoore) takes Pepper in the Nose]

Phrina (hot whoore) takes Pepper in the Nose,
Because her Noses Pimples, some call Poxes,
Wherewith she peppers both her friends and foes;
So, makes her Nose, and Poope, two Pepper-boxes.

8

[A faire threed, Captaine Porcupine hath spunne]

A faire threed, Captaine Porcupine hath spunne:
For, he his Threed of life hath quite vndone:
Call yee that spinning that vntwines that Threed?
Then did he (hanging) spinne till he was dead.
O Hercules, what meantst thou so to spinne,
To loose the glory which thy Fights did winne!

9

[Hee's Iacke out of office, that Iohn was in it]

Hee 's Iacke out of office, that Iohn was in it:
Then Iohns prouing Iacks, lacke honesty or Wit.
But let me be Iohn, till I be a Iacke;
If I loose my office, let my necke cracke.

10

[It's better sit-still then rise and fall]

It 's better sit-still then rise and fall:
So Tradesmen should not occupy at all.

11

[Misreck'ning is no paiment (it is said)]

Misreck'ning is no paiment (it is said)
Yet some misreckon being truly paid;
For, Dalia that a month hath not bene wed,
Is, ere the time shee reckond; brought to bed.
So then I hope, it may be truly said.
Though she misreckond, she was truly paide.

140

12

[Still Fucus caste beyond the Moone: and why]

Still Fucus caste beyond the Moone: and why;
The Moone still casts him into Lunacy.

13

[The greatest Clarkes are not the wisest men.]

The greatest Clarkes are not the wisest men.
Much lesse the least are. Who be vvisest then?
For if vvee meane Clarks, meanely vvise esteeme;
Then vvisest, vvho? the great that small do seeme.

14

[They say, that many hands light worke do make]

They say, that many hands light worke do make:
But not where they cutt Throtes, full Bagges to take,
Yet Cossmus, lent his hand with others (by)
To this light worke, which hang'd them heauily.

15

[Friscus doth daunce attendance on his Puncke]

Friscus doth daunce attendance on his Puncke:
But shee will make him Caper, when hee's sunke.

16

[The blinde eates many a Fly: and that wee proue]

The blinde eates many a Fly: and that wee proue
In honest men, that honest women loue:
Then, are such louers blinde, and eate a Fly?
Most true, sith I those women did belye.

17

[No Padd was in the straw when as there lay]

No Padd was in the straw when as there lay
Kate with her Kitt all night (abrode) in Hay:
But in the Hay vvas Kate, but novv no Padd;
For, novv the Lasse is marryed to the Ladd,

18

[All men do grease the fatt Sowe in the Taile.]

All men do grease the fatt Sowe in the Taile.
Thou liest grosse Prouerbe, they fatt Bawds do faile.

19

[Fast binde, fast finde: But Rufus Bound as fast]

Fast binde, fast finde: But Rufus Bound as fast
As Bonds could do, to pay a debt he ought,

141

Stole quite avvay; ere quite the day vvas past,
And novvhere can be found though he be sought.

20

[Be as be may, no banning is: And yet it is a curse]

Be as be may, no banning is: And yet it is a curse
To be as novv it is; because, the world was neuer worse.

21

[It is ill fishing still before the net.]

It is ill fishing still before the net.
And thats the cause that I so little get:
I fish for all, yet seldome get I some;
Because some other catch all ere I come.

22

[Hvnger still drops out of some noble nose.]

Hvnger still drops out of some noble nose.
A Bots dry vp that Rhewme where ere it floes.

23

[Baccare quoth Mortimer vnto his Sowe.]

Baccare quoth Mortimer vnto his Sowe.
But wheres a Mortimer to say so now?

24

[Morus his manly wife, the Breech doth weare]

Morus his manly wife, the Breech doth weare;
While other men (they say) do weare her Geare.

25

[All women haue no Soules. But Spirits they haue]

All women haue no Soules. But Spirits they haue,
To say who saies it is a foole or knaue.

26

[Marcus is shau'n against the Wooll. But, dryly, I suppose]

Marcus is shau'n against the Wooll. But, dryly, I suppose,
For, of it selfe, his Haire fals off, and so falls off his Nose.

27

[To powre out Oyle into the fire, is not the way to quench it.]

To powre out Oyle into the fire, is not the way to quench it.
O Prouerb (fy) thou art a lyer, as they can tell that wench it.

28

[Dogs barking aloofe, bite not at hand.]

Dogs barking aloofe, bite not at hand.
Yes (perhaps) should they forfeit their band.

142

29

[Its true that all men say: Then truly I]

Its true that all men say: Then truly I
Make Bookes; write faire: yet passe no Bookes thereby.

30

[Lambard was one of them that God bad ho.]

Lambard was one of them that God bad ho.
But, t'was when he was hanging to and fro.

31

[Whether I would not, I cannot the way]

Whether I would not, I cannot the way:
Then, none hangs at Tiburne, but some shewes the way

32

[The neerer the Church the further from God.]

The neerer the Church the further from God.
Yea, that is some Church that with him is od.

33

[Desart and Reward be euer farre od]

Desart and Reward be euer farre od,
With Men so euer, but neuer with God.

34

[Good ryding at two Anchors some men do say]

Good ryding at two Anchors some men do say:
But oft ryding at one is more then they may.

35

[Some stumble ouer Strawes, and leape ouer Blockes]

Some stumble ouer Strawes, and leape ouer Blockes:
Marry, they are no Dawes, that leape to flye knockes.

36

[What some winne in the Hundred, they loose in the Sheere]

What some winne in the Hundred, they loose in the Sheere,
But some in the Hundred, get Sheeres well neere.

37

[When thrifts in the Towne, then some are in the Field]

When thrifts in the Towne, then some are in the Field:
But London doth few such Citizens yeeld.

38

[Some men to thriue are in the wrong Box.]

Some men to thriue are in the wrong Box.
Yet there they are getting: for, they get the Pox.

143

39

[No penny, no Pater noster, they say]

No penny, no Pater noster, they say:
Yes, the Deuils, vvithout pence, many vvill pray.

40

[A Light Lode is heauy to carry farre]

A Light Lode is heauy to carry farre:
Not being Angells, for they flyers are.

41

[Oft things fall out in pudding time]

Oft things fall out in pudding time:
But if they fell in it vvere a crime.

42

[Short stooting looseth the set]

Short stooting looseth the set:
And though they do, yet Game they get.

43

[The last at the Pot is the first wroth]

The last at the Pot is the first wroth
Not, if he finde there, good store of Broth.

44

[He hath pist on a Nettle: But vvould he had mist]

He hath pist on a Nettle: But vvould he had mist:
For, a Nettle hath stung him on vvhich he hath pist.

45

[The Flyes haunt leane Horses: Those are French Flies]

The Flyes haunt leane Horses: Those are French Flies;
As for our English, they leane-ones despise.

46

[Wee soone beleeue what wee desire]

Wee soone beleeue what wee desire:
Then all beleeue they shall aspire.

57

[Ill newes are commonly true]

Ill newes are commonly true,
Not if a lyer made them nevv.

48

[The more haste the worse speede (they say)]

The more haste the worse speede (they say)
Not vvhen vve must take a snatch and avvay.

144

47

[By the Fruit not the Flowre we know well the Tree.]

By the Fruit not the Flowre we know well the Tree.
But vve by the Flowres knovv what Gardens be.

48

[With a little Steele a little man's armd]

With a little Steele a little man's armd:
If his heart be as little, with lesse he is harmd.

49

[There needs no Signe at the best wine.]

There needs no Signe at the best wine.
But sowre may it be growne, ere it be drunke vnknowne.

50

[Farre words breake no bones: and yet the Tongue doth]

Farre words breake no bones: and yet the Tongue doth:
Then if this be true, its not true in both.

51

[The Tongue breakes the bone, it selfe hauing none.]

The Tongue breakes the bone, it selfe hauing none.
But vvould mine might hould til Tongues break them could.

52

[Euery Groome is a King at home.]

Euery Groome is a King at home.
Its an homely King that is but a Groome.

53

[If men become Sheepe the Woolf will deuoure them]

If men become Sheepe the Woolf will deuoure them:
But most become Ban-dogs, because they vvould scoure thē

54

[None plaies the foole well without wit (they say)]

None plaies the foole well without wit (they say)
Then, our Court-Fooles are fooles in earnest, not play;

55

[Zeale without knowlegde is sister of Folly]

Zeale without knowlegde is sister of Folly:
But though it be witlesse men hold it most holly.

56

[The Cat would eat fish but for wetting her feete.]

The Cat would eat fish but for wetting her feete.
To eat ere she vvash, is fovvle and vnsvveete.

145

59

[To speake ill of others, is the fift Element]

To speake ill of others, is the fift Element:
Nature needs but fowre; then, the fift's an Excrement.

60

[Promise it euer the Eaue to Giue]

Promise it euer the Eaue to Giue
But wee fast from Promise, to obserue the Eaue.

61

[The first Chapter of fooles themselues magnifies.]

The first Chapter of fooles themselues magnifies.
Then, the last is confusion, that makes the fooles wise.

62

[Giuing is dead, and Restoring is dying.]

Giuing is dead, and Restoring is dying.
Prouerb th'are well both (you'l ne're leaue your lying;)
For many do giue to lye vvith a Drabb;
And still they restore the lye with a Stabb.

63

[Fire and Flax differ: Not to make fire.]

Fire and Flax differ: Not to make fire.
Like men and women that burne in desire.

64

[A Bittur makes no good Hawke: And yet Birds of pray]

A Bittur makes no good Hawke: And yet Birds of pray
Call'd Lemmons, are bitter, though golden, and gay:

65

[Fooles make the Banquets, and wise-men enioy them.]

Fooles make the Banquets, and wise-men enioy them.
So, at fooles Wassells, Wise men destroy them.

66

[The end makes all equall: Not so; not all]

The end makes all equall: Not so; not all:
For, some then do climbe, and others do fall.

67

[Secrets are hidden: Yea so they ought.]

Secrets are hidden: Yea so they ought.
But Beasts still shew them for a thing of nought.

68

[A scabb'd Sheepe will marre a whole flock.]

A scabb'd Sheepe will marre a whole flock.
Faith, then the Shep-herd's a Knaue, or a Block.

146

69

[He that will liue, in peace and rest]

He that will liue, in peace and rest,
Must heare and see, and say the best.
But if, this Rule were generall,
No Preacher there should be at all.

70

[The Taile doth often catch the Fox]

The Taile doth often catch the Fox,
And by the Taile some catch the Pox.

71

[The Posterne doore: makes theefe and whore.]

The Posterne doore: makes theefe and whore.
But, were that dam'd with Stone, or Clay:
Whoores and Theeues would find a way.

72

[Good words anoint vs]

Good words anoint vs,
And ill do vnioynt vs.
But friends ill wordes the Ioyntes do knit,
That flattrers best words cause to flyt.

73

[Lyes haue short wines. He lyes that so sings]

Lyes haue short wines. He lyes that so sings:
For, farre do they flye, when they be on their wings.

74

[That Tongue doth lye that speakes in hast.]

That Tongue doth lye that speakes in hast.
This some belyes that speake too fast.

75

[The Masters Eye doth fatt the horse.]

The Masters Eye doth fatt the horse.
Not if he haue no other course.

76

[It's better to giue the Fleece, then the sheepe.]

It 's better to giue the Fleece, then the sheepe.
For some rotten bodyes that dravves too deepe.

147

77

[A fooles Paper is a white Wall.]

A fooles Paper is a white Wall.
But, it was not so in Baltazars hall.

78

[All weapons of Warre, will not Arme Feare.]

All weapons of Warre, will not Arme Feare.
But they are ynough to make Hope forbeare.

79

[Choose neither Women, nor Lynnen by Candle]

Choose neither Women, nor Lynnen by Candle:
Yes, in the Darke, if them men may handle.

80

[Deedes, are Males; Wordes Females are.]

Deedes , are Males; Wordes Females are.
This makes Women vvordy Ware.

81

[Hatred with friends, is succor to foes.]

Hatred with friends, is succor to foes.
Then blessed vvere Whoores, if they succourd those.

82

[This bitt the Mare by the thumbe. (Quoth a setter)]

This bitt the Mare by the thumbe. (Quoth a setter)
But if he had said by the Bum, it vvere better.

83

[Claw a Churle by the Taile, and hee'l mute in thy fist.]

Claw a Churle by the Taile, and hee'l mute in thy fist.
That's but by chance, he hath not still list.
Hereafter comes not yet, but vvere they one,
Many in Nevvgate vvould bee hang'd to be gone.

84

[Some Whores liue by losse vvhose Tongues runne at Rouers]

Some Whores liue by losse vvhose Tongues runne at Rouers,
But they soone at butting their losses recouers.

85

[A Queane hath euer a Cloke for the rayne.]

A Queane hath euer a Cloke for the rayne.
Then one is richer then I know twaine.

148

86

[Neede makes the olde wife trot. Nay she but wambles]

Neede makes the olde wife trot. Nay she but wambles:
But for neede, I am sure, the yong one oft ambles.

87

[All couet, all lose. Were this Lye but small]

All couet, all lose. Were this Lye but small
The world could not stand: for it couets all.

88

[It's sed that hungry flies bite sore. Then, Franck is such a flie]

It's sed that hungry flies bite sore. Then, Franck is such a flie:
For, while the Sting is in her taile she bites most bitterly.

89

[He runneth farre that nere returnes. But since]

He runneth farre that nere returnes. But since
Tiburne's so neere, some nere returne from thence.

90

[Something hath some sauor. But some things there are]

Something hath some sauor. But some things there are,
Had they no sauour they were sweeter farre.

91

[Nothing venter, nothing haue. But some do venture all]

Nothing venter, nothing haue. But some do venture all
But in one bottome, till they sinck, and so they haue a fall.

92

[Nought hath no sauor. That I deny]

Nought hath no sauor. That I deny:
For, some are starke nought that smell most filthily.

93

[He may sing before Theeues that no mony brings]

He may sing before Theeues that no mony brings,
But if before whoores, theil sigh while he sings.

94

[Some hold with the Hare, and runne with the Hound.]

Some hold with the Hare, and runne with the Hound.
But hardly with men such runners are found.

95

[Phryne makes much but of her painted Sheath]

Phryne makes much but of her painted Sheath,
And yet tis but the very gate of Death:
For all those Blades, that therein cleanly go
Are soild, and spoild, the Sheath is painted so.

149

96

[As good to play, as worke for nought (they say)]

As good to play, as worke for nought (they say)
But Players get much good, by nought but play.

97

[Where he no Receauers, there will be no Theeues.]

Where he no Receauers, there will be no Theeues.
But, no Kings Receauer this Reckoning receaues.

98

[The Vintner feares false measure. How can hee]

The Vintner feares false measure. How can hee
Feare that he hopes his maintenance shall bee?

99

[Ev'ry man for himselfe, and God for vs all.]

Ev'ry man for himselfe, and God for vs all.
So, God should loue those whose loue is but small.

100

[Young Saint, old Deuill. That still is not true]

Young Saint, old Deuill. That still is not true:
For, some were young Deuills that olde Saints do grow.

101

[Some are in by the weeke, and some by the Tallow]

Some are in by the weeke, and some by the Tallow,
Are farre furrher in, then the best weeke can hollow.

102

[Store is no sore. Yes, if they be scabs]

Store is no sore. Yes, if they be scabs
Giuen by Haksters, or gotten by Drabbs.

103

[Throw no Guift at the giuer againe.]

Throw no Guift at the giuer againe.
Yes: if he giue me a blow Ile thanke him with twaine.

104

[Lenea sees farre int' a milstone.]

Lenea sees farre int' a milstone.
Nay she doth see into more then one.

105

[Once Flaccus was a flote. (the world did see't)]

Once Flaccus was a flote. (the world did see't)
But now he sinkes by floting in the Fleete.

150

106

[A false Knaue needes no Broker. But a Broker]

A false Knaue needes no Broker. But a Broker
Needes a false Knaue; (a Hangman, or a Hooker.)

107

[A short horse is soone curried. But some short Mare]

A short horse is soone curried. But some short Mare,
Will haue more then the longest Carrier can spare.

108

[Of suffrance comes ease. Of such it is sedd]

Of suffrance comes ease. Of such it is sedd,
That suffer at Tiburne vntill they be dead.

109

[After Skies lower, we shall haue faire weather.]

After Skies lower, we shall haue faire weather.
But women looke sower, then storme altogether.

110

[Whores set vp a candle before the Deuill.]

Whores set vp a candle before the Deuill.
Th'are light in Darknesse; and yet lightly euill.

111

[To be merry and wise it's good (they say)]

To be merry and wise it's good (they say)
Then, Fooles that Part can neuer play.

112

[Ovt of sight out of minde. This lye they marke]

Ovt of sight out of minde. This lye they marke,
That lye with their Drabbs all night in the darke.

113

[Who wedds ere hee bee wise]

Who wedds ere hee bee wise,
Nere thriues vntill he dyes.
Then Mulus cannot thriue
To liue, and yet to wiue.

114

[Proue thy friend ere thou neede. That can we neuer]

Proue thy friend ere thou neede. That can we neuer:
For, neede of a friend a man shall haue euer.

115

[Presse a Worme on the Taile, and t'will turne againe.]

Presse a Worme on the Taile, and t'will turne againe.
So will Women (poore Wormes) when need doth constraine.

151

116

[Saying and doing are two things. But add]

Saying and doing are two things. But add
It was not so when the World was made.

117

[In space comes grace. But if out of Rule]

In space comes grace. But if out of Rule
The Gracer is either a Whore, Knaue, or Foole.

118

[Neede hath no Law. But some great Lawyers neede.]

Neede hath no Law. But some great Lawyers neede.
What, Coyne? No, Conscience in Word and deede.
But if a Lawyer lack Hability,
None is so rightly call'd Necessity. Want's not so rightly call'd Necessitie.

119

[Beggers shoold be no choosers. Then I muse]

Beggers shoold be no choosers. Then I muse
So many begg at Court, that well may choose.

120

[All shall bee well; and Iack shal haue Iill.]

All shall bee well; and Iack shal haue Iill.
Not I by this light: for, shee is too light,

121

[Soft fire sweete mault doth make: then was that Kill]

Soft fire sweete mault doth make: then was that Kill
That dryd Astollphus badd: for, he doth smell.

122

[Hast maketh waste. But that makes to marre]

Hast maketh waste. But that makes to marre;
Yet better make haste from Waste to runne farre.

123

[It's beteer giue, then take. Not so]

It's beteer giue, then take. Not so:
For better giue, then take a Blow.

124

[Marcus his haire growes through his whood, they say]

Marcus his haire growes through his whood, they say,
That cannot bee: for all is fallen away.

125

[Light come, light goe. Not so, for Phryna came]

Light come, light goe. Not so, for Phryna came
To Marcus light: but goes opprest with shame.

152

126

[God sends fooles Fortune. But yet not to all]

God sends fooles Fortune. But yet not to all;
For, some are great fooles, whose Fortunes are small.

127

[The blinde should iudge no Coulors: But they should]

The blinde should iudge no Coulors: But they should:
For Homer, to the life, paint all things could.

128

[There goes the Hare away. This Prouerb's poore.]

There goes the Hare away. This Prouerb's poore.
Then make it rich, and say; there Rides the Whore.

129

[What is a Work-man without his Tooles?]

What is a Work-man without his Tooles?
Then the best furni'sht Work-men are but Fooles.

130

[They hardly can runne that cannot goe.]

They hardly can runne that cannot goe.
Some bound to a Mast finde it not so.

131

[Some on the matter sett a good face.]

Some on the matter sett a good face.
Yet they haue neither Beauty, nor grace.

132

[I heare not on that side: So may they depose]

I heare not on that side: So may they depose
Whose Eares the Starr-chamber did light them to lose.

133

[The diuell is dead. Nay, that Ile ne're beleeue]

The diuell is dead. Nay, that Ile ne're beleeue:
For hee's nere dead while Roring-boyes do liue.

134 Againe

The deuill is dead. Then haue the damned Crew
Their Maister lost, but they haue found a new.

135

[On that stringe harpens more. (say angry Boyes)]

On that stringe harpens more. (say angry Boyes)
Yes; till a String the wagg-strings quite destroyes

153

136

[In loue is no lack. Yes: lack of Chinckes]

In loue is no lack. Yes: lack of Chinckes:
Loue lacks no woe that Beggerly lincks.

137

[So many heads, so many Witts. Fy, fy.]

So many heads, so many Witts. Fy, fy.
It is a shame for Prouerbs so to lye:
For, I (though mine acquaintance be but small)
Know many heads that haue no witt at all.

138

[Some fooles do say at their Wits ends they are.]

Some fooles do say at their Wits ends they are.
When they were warn'd, and yet would not beware:
So, when they were at the'ntrance of their witt,
They were vpon the vtmost end of it.

139

[There are more Maids then Maulkin. Perhaps so]

There are more Maids then Maulkin. Perhaps so:
And but perhapps neither, as now maids go.

140

[Still Sowes eat all the draff. But some Sowes still]

Still Sowes eat all the draff. But some Sowes still,
With better Things would faine their Bellyes fill.

141

[Betweene two Stooles the Taile to ground doth go.]

Betweene two Stooles the Taile to ground doth go.
And oft one Stoole, doth it to water thro.

142

[Might ore' comes Right. But, oft a right knaue]

Might ore' comes Right. But, oft a right knaue
Ore comes the Mightiest a Kingdome can haue.
Braue Harry late French-King can say (beeing dead)
Raniliack his Heart hitt, as I the Nailes head.
But God blesse our Ieamy from such right Knaues,
That Might still may Master Sathans right Slaues.

143

[It's better how they breake. But stouping low]

It 's better how they breake. But stouping low
Olde Sisse did ripp: then ripp (olde Sisse) er'e boow.

154

144

[Hee's a Bench whistler. That is but an ynche]

Hee 's a Bench whistler. That is but an ynche
Whistling an Hunts-vp in the Kings Bench.

145

[Sith light gaines heauy purses make: I fret]

Sith light gaines heauy purses make: I fret
That mines so light, and yet so little get.

146

[Still Mumm, is councell. Nay, tis no aduice]

Still Mumm, is councell. Nay, tis no aduice:
But Mummers keepe councell that winne with false dyce.

147

[Some to hide faire faults can make faire weather. ]

Some to hide faire faults can make faire weather.
Thats false: for so, they were Gods altogether.

148

[Better at Brim then at Bottome to spare.]

Better at Brim then at Bottome to spare.
But some spend at Bottome till Beggers they are.

149

[Euer spare, and Euer bare. Prouerb you fable]

Euer spare, and Euer bare. Prouerb you fable;
For, Fooles still get most when they least spare their bable.

150

[Who that may not as they would, will as they may]

Who that may not as they would, will as they may,
But themselues they may hang, if their wills say not nay.

151

[Ovt of Gods blessing into the warme Sunne]

Ovt of Gods blessing into the warme Sunne
All boyes do goe, that choose but to runne.
Vnlesse by their feete they be so well sped
That they (vvhen they list) may runne to the head.

152

[They that are bound must needs obay.]

They that are bound must needs obay.
But some loose slaues to this say nay.

153

[Euen reckoning makes long friends.]

Euen reckoning makes long friends.
But some, such Reckoning much offend.

155

154

[Misreckning's no paiment. But by your leaue]

Misreckning 's no paiment. But by your leaue,
That's all the paiment some (trusting) receaue.

155

[Change is no robbery. No; that were strange]

Change is no robbery. No; that were strange
For, there were no robbery if there vvere no change.

156

[To steale a Goose and sticke a feather downe.]

To steale a Goose and sticke a feather downe.
That is in vse, the wise such Geese are grovvne.

157

[Phrine will haue an Oare in each mans Boate.]

Phrine will haue an Oare in each mans Boate.
While she sinks theirs that in her Bottom sloate.

158

[Men are oft Marchants without money or Ware]

Men are oft Marchants without money or Ware:
But vvomen much venture, Yet are not so bare

159

[When wine is in, then Wit is out, (they say)]

When wine is in, then Wit is out, (they say)
But vvhen no vvine is in, Wit's most avvay.

160

[Hee's high in the Instep, and very straite lac'd.]

Hee's high in the Instep, and very straite lac'd.
That's but some leg, vvith a straite Buskin grac'd.

161

[Lenæa hath strooke the Ball vnder line.]

Lenæa hath strooke the Ball vnder line.
But she vvan the Game she plaid for, in fine:
Yet strake vnder lyne, and vnder leg too,
So, did as much as a vvoman could doo.

162

[Marc is of Court, but not of Councell made.]

Marc is of Court, but not of Councell made.
For Court hee's a Coult, but for Councell a Iade.

163

[Hee may do much ill, ere he can do much worse]

Hee may do much ill, ere he can do much worse
That takes a poore Poets Papers, or Purse.

156

164

[To cast water in Thames is superfluous.]

To cast water in Thames is superfluous.
Not at an Ebbe when Brewerslit vse.

165

[Classus of late had his whore in the Winde.]

Classus of late had his whore in the Winde.
That might soone bee, if he had her behinde.

166

[All's fish that comes to Nett. With some Women.]

All 's fish that comes to Nett. With some Women.
Nay, sure it's all flesh; and then they are Wo-men.

167

[No end of his goods. A late Knight did kno.]

No end of his goods. A late Knight did kno.
Some Lords are as rich, that will not say so.

168

[Who is worse Shood then the Shoomakers wife?]

Who is worse Shood then the Shoomakers wife?
Faith, Geese, that neuer ware Shoes in their life,

169

[A scalld horse is good enough for a scab'd Squire.]

A scalld horse is good enough for a scab'd Squire.
But not if that Scabb paies well for the hire.

170

[That Epigram passeth all that I know]

That Epigram passeth all that I know
With which there is But a word and a blow.

171

[Scaurus still lookes vnto his Wiues water.]

Scaurus still lookes vnto his Wiues water.
If shee bee a Patient, then it's no matter.

172

[He winkes with one Eye, while the other doth glout.]

He winkes with one Eye, while the other doth glout.
That may well bee; for, one eye is out.

173

[Nought lay downe, nought take vp. Nay, would the nought]

Nought lay downe, nought take vp. Nay, would the nought
But once take vp well, they were as they ought:
But they take vp ill still, when they lye downe,
Which makes their bowles trill ill, and not hold their owne.

157

174

[Some Iackes are common to all that will play]

Some Iackes are common to all that will play
In their wiues Allies to hit as they may;
But if wiues be common, their Brovves pay for it:
Because it is for the Allies benefit.

175

[Men call on the Horse that will carry all.]

Men call on the Horse that will carry all.
But some on such Mares more often do call.

176

[Phryne may put her winnings in her eye]

Phryne may put her winnings in her eye
And see nere the worse. Still prouerbs ye lye:
For she woonne the Pox; vvhich if she should set
In her best eye, the sight it vvould let.

177

[The World still he keepes at his staues end]

The World still he keepes at his staues end,
That neede not to borrow, and neuer will lend.
But if the vvorld get vvithin him, hee reeles
Vnder the World, that strikes vp his heeles.

178

[Scarce haue some leachers Scarburrow warning]

Scarce haue some leachers Scarburrow warning,
When they for God Cupid are martyrd by burning:
Then they vvere taken when zeale was too hott,
And knowledge too cold; els burn'd they had not.

179

[He that comes euery day, shall haue a Cocknay]

He that comes euery day, shall haue a Cocknay:
And he that comes but now and then, shall haue a fat then,
But Cocks that to Hens come but now and then;
Shall haue a Cock-nay, not the fatt Hen.

180

[Catlus is as furious as a Lyon of Cotfold.]

Catlus is as furious as a Lyon of Cotfold.
Why that makes his Lionesse to make him a Coockold.

158

181

[Marina fryes in her owne grease. Nay soft, of that I doubt]

Marina fryes in her owne grease. Nay soft, of that I doubt:
For, Scaurus she hath shrowdly scorcht: so some she fries without

182

[When Bale's at the highest]

When Bale's at the highest,
Then Boote is nighest.
Yet when Bale's askd of Grand-iury men,
Of a poore Prisoner, what booteth him then?

183

[Some make a great haruest of a little Corne.]

Some make a great haruest of a little Corne.
To make much of a little's no matter of scornt.

184

[Hvnger pierceth walls of Stone.]

Hvnger pierceth walls of Stone.
So it may, yet meat haue none.

185

[The old Mare would haue a new Crupper.]

The old Mare would haue a new Crupper.
That's vnder the Taile, but This should be vpper.

186

[Phryne's as merry as a Cricket, sometimes]

Phryne 's as merry as a Cricket, sometimes:
But angry as a Waspe, when she reads my Rimes.

187

[Wishers and Woulders are no good Housholders.]

Wishers and Woulders are no good Housholders.
Yet the best Housholder many times wishes,
He had better meanes to better his dishes.

188

[Its good to haue an Hatch before the Dore.]

Its good to haue an Hatch before the Dore.
Then there's some good in the House of an Whoore.

189

[Follow thou pleasure, and still it will flee]

Follow thou pleasure, and still it will flee,
But she thou pleasure, and it will follow thee.
Like some nice Lasses, that fly them that ply them,
But them still they follow that euer do fly them.

159

190

[The worst Dogge that is, waggeth his taile.]

The worst Dogge that is, waggeth his taile.
Of that the worst Women neuer do faile.

191

[Weigh iust and sell deere. That whoores can nere]

Weigh iust and sell deere. That whoores can nere:
Sith they are too light, and sell still too deere.

192

[Every man drawes water to his Mill.]

Every man drawes water to his Mill.
And so do all such women by their will.

193

[As good is my foe that hurts me not]

As good is my foe that hurts me not,
As my friend at my need that helpes me not:
That foe doth wish (in his best mood)
Worse then that friend; then not so good.

194

[Loue lyes a bleeding.]

Loue lyes a bleeding.
But not when hee's breeding.

195

[Ever the bigger eateth the Beane.]

Ever the bigger eateth the Beane.
But they haue the worse when the Cake's eate vp cleane.

196 Againe

Ever the bigger the Beane doth eate,
But euer the lesser eates better meate.

197

[They say that faire words make fooles faine.]

They say that faire words make fooles faine.
Then wise are fooles, for, such wordes they gaine.

198

[The wise man saies, there's no accord]

The wise man saies, there's no accord
Where euery man would be a Lord.
That makes the Lord so sildome fight,
Where euery man would be a Knight.

160

199

[A foole oft puts his finger in a hole.]

A foole oft puts his finger in a hole.
So does the vviseman vvhen he plaies the foole.

200

[Many haue many Blocks in their waies.]

Many haue many Blocks in their waies.
If the Blocks had heads, they vvere little Staies.

201

[Sheapes flesh he loues well, that dips his bread in the wool.]

Sheapes flesh he loues well, that dips his bread in the wool.
Yet some dip it there vvhose stomacks are dull.

202

[Before a Crippl's all halting still.]

Before a Crippl's all halting still.
If a man do it well it is not so ill.

203

[One swallow (they say) no Sommer doth make.]

One swallow (they say) no Sommer doth make.
Some swallow (I say) till great heat they take.

204

[Many speake of Robin Hood that were shot in his Bowe]

Many speake of Robin Hood that were shot in his Bowe,
And so may Archers do as good, and pricke with Shaftes as low.

205

[Batchelors wiues and maids children, euer well are taught.]

Batchelors wiues and maids children, euer well are taught.
Indeed so had they need to bee; for they are euer nought.

206

[Who can hold that will away?]

Who can hold that will away?
Seriants can: for, they vvill stay.

207

[He beares no more rule then a Goose-turd in Theames.]

He beares no more rule then a Goose-turd in Theames.
Faith, thats very much: for it troubles the Streames.

208

[He that strikes with the sword, with the scabberd shalbe strook.]

He that strikes with the sword, with the scabberd shalbe strook.
Thats the vvomanisht reuenge that euer man tooke.

161

209

[A mouse may in time bite a two a cable.]

A mouse may in time bite a two a cable.
That may she at once and if she be able.

210

[When the Fox doth preach, of your Geese beware]

When the Fox doth preach, of your Geese beware,
Yet once a Fox preacht that bloud did forbeare.

211

[Her Tongue runnes on Pattens, as the World doth on wheles.]

Her Tongue runnes on Pattens, as the World doth on wheles.
Then her Tongue may, at pleasure, shew a faire paire of heeles

212

[Hee must needs goe that the deuill doth driue.]

Hee must needs goe that the deuill doth driue.
Not if a stronger helpe him to striue.

213

[Raw leather will stretch, t'were better it would not]

Raw leather will stretch, t'were better it would not:
Sith it's apt to stretch where (perhaps) it should not.

214

[They say things done, vndone can neuer bee.]

They say things done, vndone can neuer bee.
But, that's a lye: for Bankeroupts we see.

215

[There was neuer faire prison: nor Loue with fowle face]

There was neuer faire prison: nor Loue with fowle face:
Yes faith, but there bee, oft both in one place.

216

[In vaine ther rise early, that vs'd to rise late.]

In vaine ther rise early, that vs'd to rise late.
Better late then neuer to looke to thy State.

217

[It it better play with the Eares, then the Tongue.]

It it better play with the Eares, then the Tongue.
But some that must lose them, thinke this is wrong.

218

[It's good still to hold the Asse by the bridle.]

It 's good still to hold the Asse by the bridle.
But he is an Asse that still is so idle.

162

219

[The faire Feathers still make the faire Fowles.]

The faire Feathers still make the faire Fowles.
But some haue faire feathers that looke but like Owles.

220

[The fire is neuer without heate.]

The fire is neuer without heate.
That some well know that ill do sweate.

221

[The friend that fainteth is a Foe.]

The friend that fainteth is a Foe.
Then is there no friend that I kno.

222

[The Meale of the deuill turnes all to branne.]

The Meale of the deuill turnes all to branne.
Then hard fare his seruants, yet he hath many a man.

223

[Early it pricks that will be a Thorne]

Early it pricks that will be a Thorne:
Nay, early it budds that will be a Horne.

224

[The ioy of the Heart, fairly coulors the face.]

The ioy of the Heart, fairly coulors the face.
Nay, some can do that when they are in worst case.

225

[A spurred Horse of force must trott.]

A spurred Horse of force must trott.
So must a Mare that ambles not.

226

[Hee danceth well to whome Fortune pipes.]

Hee danceth well to whome Fortune pipes.
But they very ill she Tabbers with stripes.

227

[A dead Bee will make no Hony]

A dead Bee will make no Hony:
But from dead Bees, it's had for money.

228

[Good words and ill deedes deceaue wise and fooles.]

Good words and ill deedes deceaue wise and fooles.
But ill deedes can neuer, except men be Mules.

229

[Ill goes the Boate without the Ore.]

Ill goes the Boate without the Ore.
And without Rudder, ill the Whoore.

163

But if they haue both Winde and Tide
Full in their Poopes, apace thei'l slide.

230

[Who sitts too well, thinkes ill too oft.]

Who sitts too well, thinkes ill too oft.
Nay, all thinke best to sit alost.

231

[Who vseth mee better then hee was vs'd]

Who vseth mee better then hee was vs'd,
By him I am, or shall be abus'd.
But with true louers that's vntrue,
Who eu'ry day giue fauors new.

232

[Who suffers, orecomes. Nay, that's but with some]

Who suffers, orecomes. Nay, that's but with some:
Some Maides suffer Men till they be ouercome.

233

[A barking Mastiffe neuer bites]

A barking Mastiffe neuer bites:
As soone as some still-bralling Wights.

234

[Who hath Time, and staies for it]

Who hath Time, and staies for it,
Often so, bee baseth it.
But all haue time that are aliue
Yet few haue time aright to thriue.

235

[Who doth euill hates the light.]

Who doth euill hates the light.
Light Women, some, do loue by night.

236

[Who hath no Children feedes them fatt.]

Who hath no Children feedes them fatt.
Some Coockolds are alone for that.

237

[Who serues the People nothing serues.]

Who serues the People nothing serues.
So, nothing he thereby deserues:
But best they serue, that best do guard
That Nothing; and earne best reward,

164

238

[Who sleepes with Dogs shall wake with Fleas]

Who sleepes with Dogs shall wake with Fleas:
But Ladies Doggs haue none of these.

239 Wi: Wall.

Hard with the Hard, ner'e made good Wall:
Yet know I one (hardy) hardly will fall.

240

[Its merry in hall, when beards wigg all.]

Its merry in hall, when beards wigg all.
So thinke not some, though oft their vviues (there) vvagg
About their businesse, but to fill their Bagg.

241

[Wedding and hanging the Destenies dispatch]

Wedding and hanging the Destenies dispatch:
But hanging to some seemes the better match.

242

[Looke ere thou leape But no good they reape]

Looke ere thou leape But no good they reape
That are to be hang'd, though they looke ere they leape.

243

[The hastie man neuer wants wo.]

The hastie man neuer wants wo.
To this, they that flye a whore-house say no.

244

[Hee is as rich as a new-shorne sheepe.]

Hee is as rich as a new-shorne sheepe.
So may hee bee fatt, though his Wooll be not deepe.

245

[Hee turned his Tippet: But as I descerne]

Hee turned his Tippet: But as I descerne,
The Tippet still turned the Turner Perne.

246

[A good Tale ill told, is marr'd in the telling.]

A good Tale ill told, is marr'd in the telling.
But the best Tale well readd, is a lye in the spelling.

247

[As deepe drinkes the Gosse, as the Gander doth drinke]

As deepe drinkes the Gosse, as the Gander doth drinke:
Or els she were worse then a Gander I think.

165

248

[Some men can neuer keepe the Woolfe from the doore.]

Some men can neuer keepe the Woolfe from the doore.
Faith, they are as idle, as their strength, and Witt poore.

249

[Better meales many, then too merry one]

Better meales many, then too merry one;
Yet some are most merry when they eate alone.

250

[I wott what I wott.]

I wott what I wott.
Or els thou wottst not.

251

[Some kisse the child for the Nurses sake.]

Some kisse the child for the Nurses sake.
If they bee their owne wiues they do not mistake.

252

[Some men thinke the Moone's made of greene cheese]

Some men thinke the Moone's made of greene cheese:
Nay, if they thinke so, those Men are but Geese.

252

[Well, well: quoth some, many Wells many Bucketts]

Well , well: quoth some, many Wells many Bucketts:
Not so: for, one Size may serue many Sockets.

253

[It's hard to make an olde Dogg lye low.]

It 's hard to make an olde Dogg lye low.
But an old Bitch is made soone do so.

255

[Hvsbands be in Heau'n whose Wiues runne not ryott]

Hvsbands be in Heau'n whose Wiues runne not ryott,
I much doubt of that, they had (here) too much quiete.

256

[Some do claw where it doth not ytch.]

Some do claw where it doth not ytch.
They claw their elbow, when they ytch in the Brich,

257

[Some Coockolds Cappes haue more ease then their Head.]

Some Coockolds Cappes haue more ease then their Head.
Sith Hornes still are sencelesse vvhere ere they are bred.

166

And yet some Cuckolds, though their Caps be of horne,
Their heads neuer ake, but highly are borne.

258

[Hop whoore, pipe Theefe, hangman lead the dance.]

Hop whoore, pipe Theefe, hangman lead the dance.
Who euerd oth lead it, He ends it perchance.

259

[Some Iades there be take the Bit in their Teeth.]

Some Iades there be take the Bit in their Teeth.
But more in their Tailes, ne're taken there with.

260

[It's ill putting a weapon in a mad mans hands.]

It 's ill putting a weapon in a mad mans hands.
But worse in our owne when Anger commands.

261

[It's ill healing an old Sore.]

It's ill healing an old Sore.
No: it is good if well paid therefore.

262

[No playing with a Straw before an old Cat.]

No playing with a Straw before an old Cat.
Yes: if one play as she doth with that.

263

[No Cooke but lickes his owne fingers, we see.]

No Cooke but lickes his owne fingers, we see.
If they bee in some Pyes he shall do it for mee.

264

[Blacke will take none other hue, But it will]

Blacke will take none other hue, But it will;
Or els some blacke women would not paynt so stil.

265

[Some do amend when they cannot appaire.]

Some do amend when they cannot appaire.
But more do discend then to dispaire:
For, wee haue had examples too new,
And more we shall haue, that this is too true.

266

[Better is the last smile, then the first laughter.]

Better is the last smile, then the first laughter.
But the last should befiest had I a Daughter.

167

267

[Ill can they pipe that lacke their vpper lips.]

Ill can they pipe that lacke their vpper lips.
But worse do they pipe that lacke their nether lips.

268

[God-fathers oft, giue their blessings in a clout.]

God-fathers oft, giue their blessings in a clout.
But it is so curst, that little comes out.

269

[As good an ynch as an ell. Not so neither]

As good an ynch as an ell. Not so neither;
Though some for an ynch take Ells altogether.

270

[Do well and haue well neyther so still]

Do well and haue well neyther so still:
For, some are good Doers whose Hauings are ill.

271

[Beleeue wel and haue well, with Truth still this striues]

Beleeue wel and haue well, with Truth still this striues,
Some thinke they haue wel, that haue whoores to their wiues

272

[A man cannot eat his cake and haue it stil.]

A man cannot eat his cake and haue it stil.
That may he, vnlesse his retention be ill.

273

[VVhat are workemen without tooles.]

VVhat are workemen without tooles.
Faith, workemen still, though counted fooles.
Yet were they so, they should be able:
To get their lyuing with their Bable.

274

[No more can we haue of the Fox but the skin.]

No more can we haue of the Fox but the skin.
Yes, Bones to make dice, vvhich now is no sin.

275

[VVho had that he hath not, would do that he doth not.]

VVho had that he hath not, would do that he doth not.
Not so: for some haue no Wit nor grace
And yet they do vvell, and liue in good place.

168

276

[Men faine would stop two gaps with one Bush.]

Men faine would stop two gaps with one Bush.
Those men proue but Beasts, if it be at a Push.

277

[Ile recouer the Horse, or lose the saddle too.]

Ile recouer the Horse, or lose the saddle too.
Do but couer a Mare, and that maist thou doo.

278

[Who too much gripeth, the lesse he holdeth.]

Who too much gripeth, the lesse he holdeth.
Nay, that's not so: for some do gripe so much
That all's their owne, that they do once but touch.

279 Otherwise

Who too much embraceth still the lesse closeth.
But that is false: for some so much do close
With their embracing, that they nothing lose.

280

[They may ill runne that cannot go.]

They may ill runne that cannot go.
Yet, some Tongues (flutting) still do so.

281

[Svch beginning, such an end. This Ile not applaud]

Svch beginning, such an end. This Ile not applaud,
For, Luce did like a whore begin, but ended like a Baud.

282

[There be many more waies to the wood then one.]

There be many more waies to the wood then one.
But (heere) it's false: for, our Woods are al gone.

283

[Eu'ry winde blowes not downe the Corne.]

Eu'ry winde blowes not downe the Corne.
But something, as light haue it downe borne.

284

[It's ill casting pretious Stones before Swine.]

It 's ill casting pretious Stones before Swine.
Yet some very Sowes it makes very fine.

285

[It went in at the one Eare, and out at the other.]

It went in at the one Eare, and out at the other.
Then, Braines are still absent, when Eares meete together.

169

286

[It is bad cloth that will take no couler.]

It is bad cloth that will take no couler.
But such a Cloth ne're was scoured by Fuller:
For, if it be cloth some hue must ensue;
Vnlesse it be done; and yet that's an hue.

287

[Hee sets Cocke on the Hoope. in, you would say]

Hee sets Cocke on the Hoope. in, you would say:
For, Cocking in hoopes is now all the play.
And therefore no maruell mens Stockes often droope,
That still vse the Cocke-pit, to set Cocke in hoope.

288

[Small pitchers haue wide eares, but so they may fall]

Small pitchers haue wide eares, but so they may fall:
That their eares may be little or nothing at all.

289

[Spend and God will send. but wot ye what followes?]

Spend and God will send. but wot ye what followes?
A Staffe and Wallet, the Gaile or the Gallowes.

290

[On the house top in anger, soone is a foole.]

On the house top in anger, soone is a foole.
But some in the Seller their anger do coole.

291

[It's fond to spurne against the pricke.]

It 's fond to spurne against the pricke.
But many witty vse that Tricke.

292

[The one cannot pisse, but the other must fart.]

The one cannot pisse, but the other must fart.
Then both are but Beasts, as (Prouerb) thou art.

293

[The Leg of a Larke is worth two of a Kite.]

The Leg of a Larke is worth two of a Kite.
That's sith the ones heauy, the other light:
Then if legs we weigh by lightnesse: in sence,
The leg of a Puncke is meate for a Prince.

294

[Wee shall haue Larkes when the skie doth fall.]

Wee shall haue Larkes when the skie doth fall.
Then wee shall haue fire to roste them withall.

170

295

[Nought is impossible to a willing hart.]

Nought is impossible to a willing hart.
Yes, many would, but they cannot fart.

296

[Take all things as they come, and bee content.]

Take all things as they come, and bee content.
So many whores do, and yet pay their Rent.

297

[Prouide for the worst, the best it selfe saues]

Prouide for the worst, the best it selfe saues:
Then must wee prouide best, for Whores and Knaues.

298

[Some take ease in their Inne, how con they so]

Some take ease in their Inne, how con they so,
When the Pox goes with them, where euer they go?

299

[Hee laughs still that winnes, and yet this Truth lies]

Hee laughs still that winnes, and yet this Truth lies:
For Marc wonne the Pox, and yet still he cries.

300

[Who haue many Pease may put the more in the Pott]

Who haue many Pease may put the more in the Pott:
Yet many haue so, but they put them not.

301

[God nere sends mouthes, but he sends meate.]

God nere sends mouthes, but he sends meate.
Yea, if some knew where meat to get.

302

[VVhen the Pigg is profered hold ope thy poke]

VVhen the Pigg is profered hold ope thy poke:
So bad women doe, and to proffer prouoke.

303

[Slouth breeds a Scab: But some men by dooing]

Slouth breeds a Scab: But some men by dooing,
Oft gett a scabb, that proues their vndoing.

304

[Early vp and nere the neere.]

Early vp and nere the neere.
It's false: for then some strike their Deere.

171

305

[Hot loue is soone cold. Then it's base desire]

Hot loue is soone cold. Then it's base desire
Which oft is soone cooled by a quick fire.

306

[The fatt's in the fire. So may some say]

The fatt's in the fire. So may some say
That by firy Serpents are burnt quite away.

307 Againe.

An inch breaks no square. But lesse of a Dagger
In any manes Throte would make him to swagger.

308 Againe.

An inch breakes no square. But lesse, in a Dye,
Makes many so square, that some flat do lye.

309 Againe.

An inch breakes no square. But lesse many times,
Do make too long, by a foote, many Rimes,

310

[Where there is little, a small thing much easeth.]

Where there is little, a small thing much easeth.
Yet some that haue nothing a small thing displeaseth.

311

[Hvnger makes hard Beanes soft to appeare.]

Hvnger makes hard Beanes soft to appeare.
But an Horse thinks allwayes they are good cheere.

312

[A prouerb doth say, that where Sadles lack]

A prouerb doth say, that where Sadles lack;
Better ryde on a Padde then on the Horse back.
But I say its better ride on the Gallowes,
Then on the best Padd, for the ill that followes.

313

[Let them that bee colde, blew at the cole.]

Let them that bee colde, blew at the cole.
So may a man do, and yet play the foole.

314

[Farewell vnkist. That farwel's vnkinde]

Farewell vnkist. That farwel's vnkinde;
And rather then so: kisse, though behinde.

172

315

[A Beek's as good as a Dieu-guard.]

A Beek's as good as a Dieu-guard.
It neede to be so, it's a Nobles reward.

316

[A little pott's soone hott]

A little pott's soone hott:
Neuer when it warmeth not.

317

[If riches brings feare, Gold's bought to deere.]

If riches brings feare, Gold's bought to deere.
But would I had solde my hopes for that feare.

318

[Who can sing so mery a note]

Who can sing so mery a note,
As he that cannot change a Grote.
Mary, that can he that hath a voyce
T'alure to him the Angells choise.

319

[Poore Poets heads are euer full of Bees.]

Poore Poets heads are euer full of Bees.
But I ner'e heard that hony came from these.

320

[Pouerty parts fellowship. Not euer so]

Pouerty parts fellowship. Not euer so:
For, it makes Beggers together go.

321

[All greene things are gay. But, I say nay]

All greene things are gay. But, I say nay:
For, some Witts are greene, that are nothing gay.

322

[When the Belly's full, Bones most would rest.]

When the Belly's full, Bones most would rest.
But full-bellyed Women, Bones most molest.

323

[A friend's nere knowne till neede (in Deede)]

A friend 's nere knowne till neede (in Deede)
But Need's more knowne then friend at neede.

324

[All is not Gospell claw-backs speakes. And why?]

All is not Gospell claw-backs speakes. And why?
For, were it Gospell, Gospell oft should lye.

173

325

[While the legg warmes, the Boote harmes. I, I]

While the legg warmes, the Boote harmes. I, I,
But Ile warme my Leggs, and my Bootes neuer fry.

326

[Some thing hath some sauor. Faith, very small]

Some thing hath some sauor. Faith, very small:
Nay, a Box on the Eare, hath no smell at all.

327

[Some Tongues runnes before some Witts too and fro.]

Some Tongues runnes before some Witts too and fro.
Those Tongs are too swift, & those Witts much to slovve.

328

[The gray Mare is oft the better Horse.]

The gray Mare is oft the better Horse.
Ther's no Coulor for that: then the better is worse.

329

[In Docke, out Netle But Nettles in Dock]

In Docke, out Netle But Nettles in Dock,
Oft Nettle themselues as sure as a Rock.

330

[Too much of one thing is good for nought.]

Too much of one thing is good for nought.
That make some mens Wiues slipp more then they ought.

331

[Three may keepe counsell if two be away]

Three may keepe counsell if two be away:
And so may all three, if nothing they say.

332

[Forbearance is no quittance. That's not so]

Forbearance is no quittance. That's not so:
For some by forbearance, are quitt of a foe.

333

[Cuft Catt's no good Mouse-hunt. Thats but a Iest]

Cuft Catt's no good Mouse-hunt. Thats but a Iest:
For Wiues that be wild-catts well Cuft still do best.

334

[How can the Foale amble when the Horse doth trott?]

How can the Foale amble when the Horse doth trott?
Yes, well: for, by vse an amble is gott.

174

But Marcus, the old Colt, by force of long vse,
(And comming from Trotters) to trot cannot choose.

336

[Men should not presse much to spend much on fooles]

Men should not presse much to spend much on fooles;
Away is fish cast that is cast in dry pooles.
But if this be true, great men haue small wits:
For, they most bestow, on Fooles and Parasits.

337

[The Cat would haue fish but not wet her feete.]

The Cat would haue fish but not wet her feete.
But flesh she had rather, if it she could meete.

338

[Hee that will thriue must aske leaue of his wife.]

Hee that will thriue must aske leaue of his wife.
That's true if he lackes an Halter or Knife:
I am not so cruell to wiues for all that:
But, if Husbands aske leaue, they be I wot what.

339

[Its hard to wiue and thriue in one yeare.]

Its hard to wiue and thriue in one yeare.
Faith, the time is too cheape, and the match is too deere.

340

[Some Lasses haue eaten a stake to the end]

Some Lasses haue eaten a stake to the end:
Their Bellies are so big that their Backes will not bend.

341

[Iacke would be a Gentleman if he could speake French.]

Iacke would be a Gentleman if he could speake French.
The pox he would, hee's neerer it an ynch.

342

[Phryne doth stand as sh'had a flea in her eare.]

Phryne doth stand as sh'had a flea in her eare.
That's when she hath flead an other, an other where.

343

[Some thinke their feete be where their head shall neuer come.]

Some thinke their feete be where their head shall neuer come.
So thinkes the Hangman when he hangeth vp some.

344

[Some say it's merry when Knaues do meete.]

Some say it's merry when Knaues do meete.

175

But not when they with blowes do greete.

345

[Some would faine flie, but feathers they want.]

Some would faine flie, but feathers they want.
That is the Fyre, the proud, or Ignorant.

346

[Tis hard for one man all faults to amend]

Tis hard for one man all faults to amend
But harder for women crackt in the end.

347

[Hee's liuelesse, that's faultlesse. Prouerb ye lye]

Hee's liuelesse, that's faultlesse. Prouerb ye lye:
For, some there beliuelesse, stinke most wickedly.

348

[That which is sent by Iohn long the Carrier.]

That which is sent by Iohn long the Carrier.
Makes him that lookes for't a passing longe tarrier.

349

[Great boast and small rost.]

Great boast and small rost.
If it be so then farwell frost.

350

[A man shall as soone breake his necke as his fast]

A man shall as soone breake his necke as his fast
In a misers house. Yet stay, make no hast
To condemne his fare-cost: for, it is confest
That there is no cheare to a Misers feast.

351

[Thought is free. Yet if Kings found]

Thought is free. Yet if Kings found
Thou thoughtst them ill, thou shouldst be bound.

352

[Phryne is often tane in a Trip.]

Phryne is often tane in a Trip.
Yet often o'rethrowes ere she will slip.

353

[Who medles with all things the Gosling may shoo.]

Who medles with all things the Gosling may shoo.
Then Goslings be shoed by Geese that I konw.

176

354

[Fvseus his old wife now lies alone]

Fvseus his old wife now lies alone,
When he lyes with her, be roasts but a Stone.

355

[Shee that worst may the Candle doth hold.]

Shee that worst may the Candle doth hold.
Faith, then she is too yong, or too old.

356

[Some cannot see the wood for trees.]

Some cannot see the wood for trees.
Aswell as Lawyets Lawes for fees.

357

[Some Lasses lips hang in their light.]

Some Lasses lips hang in their light.
And yet their lips and hips are light-

358

[Some wantons stand in their owne light.]

Some wantons stand in their owne light.
Yet their lowe lying makes them light.

359

[Fancy may boult Bran till it be flower.]

Fancy may boult Bran till it be flower.
But that will fat but fooles I am sure.

360

[Loue me little, loue me long.]

Loue me little, loue me long.
But little loue great loue doth wrong.

361

[The Deuills in the Horolodge. I thinke so]

The Deuills in the Horolodge. I thinke so:
For the Clockes lye faster (oft) then they go.

Otherwise. 362

The Deuil's in the Horolodge. Thats a lye sure,
for, then would his Tongue lye lowd eur'y houre.

363

[As merry as Cup and Can. Drinke makes the Dull]

As merry as Cup and Can. Drinke makes the Dull:
But Cannes are most sad when they are most full.

364

[As merry as Pies. Maids are made by the Cup.]

As merry as Pies. Maids are made by the Cup.
When Pies are most merry their tailes they turne vp.

177

365

[I trust the Bore will no more so deepe wroote.]

I trust the Bore will no more so deepe wroote.
Yes, if he meetes an Eringe-Roote.

366

[She is as wise as Waltams Calfe.]

She is as wise as Waltams Calfe.
Yet may sucke a Bull till she leaues but halfe.

367

[Fvrther then the wall we cannot goe.]

Fvrther then the wall we cannot goe.
The Priest that fell in went further then so.

368

[A Groning Horse, and grunting Wife neuer failes their Master.]

A Groning Horse, and grunting Wife neuer failes their Master.
Yes, if the Master haue not life to ply them with the waster.

369

[Some wiues (some say) haue nine liues like a Cat]

Some wiues (some say) haue nine liues like a Cat:
If they scratch together, the better for that.

370

[It's a bad Sacke will abide no clouting.]

It 's a bad Sacke will abide no clouting.
Yet many a Durt-sacke abides none for powting.

371

[They say that the lothe Stake standeth most long.]

They say that the lothe Stake standeth most long.
Then many, most willing, are in the wrong.

372

[The Crowe thinkes her owne Bird fairest in the Wood.]

The Crowe thinkes her owne Bird fairest in the Wood.
Then thinkes she of that she ill vnderstood.

373

[Change of pastures fat Calues do make]

Change of pastures fat Calues do make
The Prouerbes a Calfe that so doth mistake:
For, if they be bare, and to much defilde,
By change, from the Calfe the fat's but exilde.

374

[He that neuer climb'd neuer yet fell.]

He that neuer climb'd neuer yet fell.
Yes, from the dunghill, some fall to hell.

178

375

[Let Patience still in your Garden appeare.]

Let Patience still in your Garden appeare.
This lessons but women, still borne to beare.

376

[Where nothing is, the King his right doth lose.]

Where nothing is, the King his right doth lose.
But he hath some Subiects that are all, or no Nose:
Then a Nose he quight loseth by the last of those;
As he of the first may (at large) dispose.

377

[Shamefull crauing must haue shamefull nay.]

Shamefull crauing must haue shamefull nay.
Some shame not to deny ere the Praiers pray.

378

[It's good to beware by other mens harmes.]

It 's good to beware by other mens harmes.
Then neuerlwould Soldier comeneere hott Alarmes.

379

[Marcus doth buy and sell mee. Then, hee's madd]

Marcus doth buy and sell mee. Then, hee's madd:
For sure hee'l lose, without more Witt he had.

380

[Marcus (they say) doth tell Tales out of Schooles.]

Marcus (they say) doth tell Tales out of Schooles.
They are no Tales; Truth's told by Babes, and Fooles.

381

[Lvce beares Fire in th'on hand and Water in th'other.]

Lvce beares Fire in th'on hand and Water in th'other.
But in her Chaffendish beares both together.
Shee's Ambodexter, with both hands shee playes:
But yet with both leggs she workes nights and dayes.
Shee's woone with an Apple, and lost with an Nuts:
Her Bumme is no Bilbo, and yet it will cutt
As keene as a Razer, that shaues away all,
And ner'e vse sweete-vvater, nor yet Barbers Ball.

382

[Sharkus is shackled, for want of a Pleader]

Sharkus is shackled, for want of a Pleader:
And so he in Nevv-gate is novv a Ring-leader.

179

383

[Whores still are Clawbackes to knaues but for lack]

Whores still are Clawbackes to knaues but for lack,
Who still clavv their Bellyes, as they clavv their Backe.
But if they were both well clawd with a whipp,
They would leaue their clawing; or clawe, and then skippe.

384

[Better vnborne (they say) then vntaught.]

Better vnborne (they say) then vntaught.
Yet Bawds teach to beare well, themselues beeing nought

385

[Bee it better, be it worse]

Bee it better, be it worse,
Do after him that beares the Purse.
Were this good aduice, then (as Iudas did)
Wee all should hang our selues: which God for-bid.

386

[The Great to the Grindstone the smalls Nose do hold.]

The Great to the Grindstone the smalls Nose do hold.
Then the Small, that are Noseles, with them may be bold,

387

[Ioan in the Darke is as good as my Lady.]

Ioan in the Darke is as good as my Lady.
Nay, perhapps better, such Ladies there may bee.
When all candles he out, all Catts be gray.
This none but carelesse Leachers will say.

388

[Fowle waters goed ynough t'extinguish fire.]

Fowle waters goed ynough t'extinguish fire.
Then fowle befall him that doth fowle desire.

389

[Still Cupids Arrowe sincere the Hart do stick.]

Still Cupids Arrowe sincere the Hart do stick.
But Venus still shootes neerest to the (Pin)

390

[At his owne Bridall it's meete a man bee.]

At his owne Bridall it's meete a man bee.
Who wedds anothers wife, how there is hee?

180

392

[The black Oxe hath not trode on Phrinces fine soote.]

The black Oxe hath not trode on Phrinces fine soote.
Prouerb you lye, for, I saw Phorbus doo't.

393

[The end of our good beginneth our euill.]

The end of our good beginneth our euill.
If so, the best lyuers still goe to the deuill.

394

[Hee that sells Lawne before he can fold it]

Hee that sells Lawne before he can fold it,
He shall repent him before he hath sold it.
Nay, diuers sell Lawne that no folders be,
And sell it with ioy, sith they tooke it at Sea.

395

[Some Bargaine's deare bought, and cheape should be sold.]

Some Bargaine's deare bought, and cheape should be sold.
So many would sell their Wiues if they could.

396

[Though they be of gold none loue their Gyues.]

Though they be of gold none loue their Gyues.
Yet many do loue golden whores to their Wiues.

397

[Better Eies out, then euer to ake.]

Better Eies out, then euer to ake.
But yet were they out the paine would not slake:
For, he in his Head that hath ner'an Eye
Oft eates many a Fly, though his wife bee by.

398

[Who so bolde as blinde Bayard? yes, one that could see]

Who so bolde as blinde Bayard? yes, one that could see
Stole the Weather-cocke of Paules, and yet lame was he.

399

[I am cast at Carts Arse, May they say that skyp]

I am cast at Carts Arse, May they say that skyp
Away from the Cart, to auoide the whipp.

400

[He that doth gape vntill he be fedd]

He that doth gape vntill he be fedd,
Well may he gape vntill he be dead.
The reason is, so many mouthes gape,

181

For euery thing still, that nothing doth scape?

401

[Faire Candida can neuer labour yonger]

Faire Candida can neuer labour yonger:
For, shee's in labour being Thirteene vnder.

402

[A beare goes to the Stake with more good will]

A beare goes to the Stake with more good will
Then some Queanes goe to Stake; yet wyn they still.

403

[Cast an olde shooe after Luscus for luck]

Cast an olde shooe after Luscus for luck,
That goes to his deere, her deerely to Buck.

404

[The rough nett is not best catcher of Birds.]

The rough nett is not best catcher of Birds.
No, nor the smooth, best catching affoords.

405

[Of Sufferanee comes ease, yet some do endure]

Of Sufferanee comes ease, yet some do endure:
The Pox all their liues, yet can get no cure.

406

[Two Heads are euer better then one]

Two Heads are euer better then one,
But if they be wittles, as good there were none,

407

[The weake hath the worst. But not euer so]

The weake hath the worst. But not euer so:
For often weake women strong men ouerthrow.

408

[The yong Cock crowes as he the olde heares]

The yong Cock crowes as he the olde heares:
And so Sire and Sonne alike still appeares:
So Sharke and his Sonne this many a yeare
Are shutt vp for debt, and alike still appeare.

409

[Some men still beare two faces in a Whood.]

Some men still beare two faces in a Whood.
The Whood is badd, or neither face is good.

410

[Prusus and's wife cuts their Coate to their Cloth.]

Prusus and's wife cuts their Coate to their Cloth.

182

Then the Stuffe shrinkes shrewdly: for th'are naked both.
So know they by proofe and that with good speede,
How Iudicare came to their Creede.

411

[It's ill begging a breech of a bare-arst man.]

It 's ill begging a breech of a bare-arst man.
Not so: for so are Cæsars now and than.

412

[Vnbidden Guests no where to sit can tell.]

Vnbidden Guests no where to sit can tell.
O! At Baintons, for an Angell, excellent wel.

413

[Olde Sharkus hath a meale-mouth (as they say)]

Olde Sharkus hath a meale-mouth (as they say)
Then must his Tongue knead Dowe there, night and day.
For, it is alway working; yet still it
Makes no good Cheat, for want of Skill and Wit.

414

[A scab'd Horse no combe abides.]

A scab'd Horse no combe abides.
But a scab'd Asse each Scab still rides.

415

[Heere is the dore and there is the way.]

Heere is the dore and there is the way.
A Iailer this will hardly say.

416

[Lvke laughs in his sleeue, and thereof he Brags]

Lvke laughs in his sleeue, and thereof he Brags:
That's easily seene; for he is all Rags.

417

[All's well that ends well: Then it is well]

All 's well that ends well: Then it is well
Peter was hang'd, that nere praid till he fell.

418

[Tyde tarries no man. But some are so tide]

Tyde tarries no man. But some are so tide
That still they must needes all commers abide.

419

[Of a good Beginning comes a good end.]

Of a good Beginning comes a good end.
At End and Beginning I may amend.