Nay, she was a brave wench." "Well, but, good Master Richard," resumed Matcham, "an ye like maids so little, y' are no true natural man; for God made them twain by intention, and brought true love into the world, to be man's hope and woman's comfort." "Faugh!" said Dick.

"Y' are a milk-sopping baby, so to harp on women.
An ye think I be no true man, get down upon the path, and whether at fists, back-sword, or bow and arrow, I will prove my manhood on your body." "Nay, I am no fighter," said Matcham, eagerly.

"I mean no tittle of offence.

I meant but pleasantry.

And if I talk of women, it is because I heard ye were to marry." "I to marry!" Dick exclaimed.