Peach. It consists, indeed, 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.

Lock. A lady’s tail of rich brocade. That, I see, is disposed of.

Peach. To Mrs. Diana Trapes, the tallywoman, and she will make a good hand on ’t in shoes and slippers to trick out young ladies upon their going into keeping.

Lock. But I don’t see any article of the jewels.

Peach. Those are so well known that they must be sent abroad. You’ll find them entered under the article of exportation. As for the snuff-boxes, watches swords, etc., I thought it best to enter them under their several heads.

Lock. Seven-and-twenty women’s pockets complete, with the several things therein contained, all sealed, numbered, and entered.

Peach. 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.

Lock. 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.—Down in the North Country

Peach. But what signifies catching the bird, if your daughter Lucy will set open the door of the cage?

Lock. 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 is unkind of you, brother, for among good friends what they say or do goes for nothing.

Enter a Servant

Serv. Sir, here’s Mrs. Diana Trapes wants to speak with you.

Peach. Shall we admit her, brother Lockit?

Lock. 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.

Peach. Desire her to walk in.

[Exit Servant.

Enter Mrs. Trapes

Dear Mrs. Die, your servant. One may know by your kiss that your gin is excellent.

Trapes. I was always very curious in my liquors.