verheard.*

* Negotiations between the Emperor and the Dutch for
continuing the war, and getting the property of Flanders.

John thought every minute a year till he got into Ecclesdown Castle; he
repairs to the "Salutation" with a design to break the matter gently to
his partners. Before he entered he overheard Nic. and the Esquire in a
very pleasant conference.

ESQUIRE SOUTH.--Oh, the ingratitude and injustice of mankind! That John
Bull, whom I have honoured with my friendship and protection so long,
should flinch at last, and pretend that he can disburse no more money
for me! that the family of the Souths, by his sneaking temper, should be
kept out of their own!

NIC. FROG.--An't like your worship, I am in amaze at it; I think the
rogue should be compelled to his duty.

ESQUIRE SOUTH.--That he should prefer his scandalous pelf, the dust and
dregs of the earth, to the prosperity and grandeur of my family!

NIC. FROG.--Nay, he is mistaken there, too; for he would quickly lick
himself whole again by his vails. It's strange he should prefer Philip
Baboon's custom to Esquire South's.

ESQUIRE SOUTH.--As you say, that my clothier, that is to get so much by
the purchase, should refuse to put me in possession; did you ever know
any man's tradesman serve him so before?

NIC. FROG.--No, indeed, an't please your worship, it is a very unusual
proceeding; and I would not have been guilty of it for the world. If
your honour had not a great stock of moderation and patience, you would
not bear it so well as you do.

ESQUIRE SOUTH.--It is most intolerable, that's certain, Nic., and I will
be revenged.

NIC. FROG.--Methinks it is strange that Philip Baboon's tenants do not
all take your honour's part, considering how good and gentle a master
you are.

ESQUIRE SOUTH.--True, Nic., but few are sensible of merit in this world.
It is a great comfort to have so faithful a friend as thyself in so
critical a juncture.

NIC. FROG.--If all the world should forsake you, be assured Nic. Frog
never will; let us stick to our point, and we'll manage Bull, I'll
warrant ye.

ESQUIRE SOUTH.--Let me kiss thee, dear Nic.; I have found one honest man
among a thousand at last.

NIC. FROG.--If it were possible, your honour has it in your power to wed
me still closer to your interest.

ESQUIRE SOUTH.--Tell me quickly, dear Nic.

NIC. FROG.--You know I am your tenant; the difference between my lease
and an inheritance is such a