deed of a great Variety of Articles. --It was
worth to our People, in Fees of different kinds, above ten Instalments.
--This is part of the Account, Brother, that lies open before us.

_Lockit._ A Lady's Tail of rich Brocade. --that, I see, is dispos'd of.

_Peachum._ To Mrs. _Diana Trapes_, the Tally-Woman, and she will make a
good Hand on't in Shoes and Slippers, to trick out young Ladies, upon
their going into Keeping.--

_Lockit._ But I don't see any Article of the Jewels.

_Peachum._ Those are so well known that they must be sent abroad--
You'll find them enter'd under the Article of Exportation. --As for the
Snuff-Boxes, Watches, Swords, &c. --I thought it best to enter them
under their several Heads.

_Lockit._ Seven and twenty Women's Pockets complete; with the several
things therein contain'd; all Seal'd, Number'd, and Enter'd.

_Peachum._ But, Brother, it is impossible for us now to enter upon this
Affair, --We should have the whole Day before us. --Besides, the Account
of the last Half Year's Plate is in a Book by itself, which lies at the
other Office.

_Lockit._ Bring us then more Liquor-- To-day shall be for Pleasure--
To-morrow for Business-- Ah, Brother, those Daughters of ours are two
slippery Hussies-- Keep a watchful Eye upon _Polly_, and _Macheath_ in a
Day or two shall be our own again.

AIR XLIV. Down in the North Country, &c.

[Music]

_Lockit._ What Gudgeons are we Men!
Ev'ry Woman's easy Prey.
Though we have felt the Hook, agen
We bite and they betray.

The Bird that hath been trapt,
When he hears his calling Mate,
To her he flies, again he's clapt
Within the wiry Grate.

_Peachum._ But what signifies catching the Bird, if your Daughter _Lucy_
will set open the Door of the Cage?

_Lockit._ If men were answerable for the Follies and Frailties of their
Wives and Daughters, no Friends could keep a good Correspondence
together for two Days. --This in unkind of you, Brother; for among good
Friends, what they say or do goes for nothing.

Enter _a Servant_.

_Servant._ Sir, here's Mrs. _Diana Trapes_ wants to speak with you.

_Peachum._ Shall we admit her, Brother _Lockit_?

_Lockit._ By all means, --She's a good Customer, and a fine-spoken
Woman-- And a Woman who drinks and talks so freely, will enliven the
Conversation.

_Peachum._ Desire her to walk in. [Exit Servant.

_Peachum_, _Lockit_, Mrs. _Trapes_.

_Peachum._ Dear Mrs. _Dye_, your