Curculio, or The Forgery (506-524)

You bankers, i’ faith, I put and place in the same rank; you are the very counterparts of them. They, at least, are on sale in dark corners, you in the very Forum[*]. You tear men to pieces with usury, they by persuading them amiss and by means of their dens. Full many a proposed statute[*] has the public confirmed on your account,

which when confirmed you break; some loophole you find out; just as boiling water becomes cold, so do you deem the laws.

I’d rather I’d held my tongue.

Not wrongfully, and with good reason, are you abusive against them.

If abuse is uttered against those who deserve it not, that I do hold to be abuse; but if it is uttered against those who are deserving, it is fair censure, in my way of thinking, at least.

I care nothing about your warranty, nor about any other Procurer whatever. Lyco, do you want anything with me?

Heartily fare you well.

Farewell. (Going.)

Hark you! I say to you—

Say on; what do you want?

Prithee do you take care that all’s well with her (pointing to PLANESIUM); I’ve brought her up in my house carefully and in chastity.

If you have such compassion for her, pray, what would you give for it to be all well with her?

A plaguy mishap for yourself.

You need take due care on that score about yourself.

Why, simpleton, do you cry? Don’t be afraid; upon my faith, I’ve sold you favourably. Take care, will you, and be a good girl; now prettily accompany him, pretty one.

Summanus, do you want anything with me at present?

Fare you well, and health attend you. (Aside.) For you’ve kindly given me your services and your money.

Give abundant greetings to my patron.