Page:Mother Bunch's closet newly broke open (1).pdf/4

4 which, if you will keep my counsel, I am ready to teach thee. I will truly, and if you will do so much for me, I shall think myself much obliged to you; and if my fortune proves right, I will make you amends.

Why then I will tell you, in the first place, you must observe St. Agnes' day, which is the 21st of January, and on that day let no man salute thee, and at night, before thou goest to bed, put on the best clean shift thou hast, and when thou liest down lay thy right hand under thy head, and say these words, "Now the God of love send me my desires;" then go to sleep as soon as possible, and you shall be sure to dream of him who will be your husband, and see him stand before you, and may take notice of him, and his complexion; and if he offer to salute thee, do not deny him, but shew him as much favour as thou canst; but if he offers to be uncivil, be sure to hold your legs together. And now, Daughter, the counsel I have given you, be sure to tell no body. So, fare you well, till I see you again.

I give you thanks for your advice; but one thing more I have to say, What is your name? and where do you live? I will tell you, Daughter, my name is, and I live at a place called Bonadventure, where, if you come, I will make you welcome.

Now having departed from the maid, she met another pretty girl. Good-morrow, Mother Bunch. Good-morrow, pretty maid, whither are you going this morning? Methinks you are very fine to-day. Fine! Mother Bunch, you do not think so. Nay, I cannot discommend you; for such a brisk maid as you should go handsome, or you will never get a sweetheart, though you think the time long. No, no, Mother, I am too young. How old are you? I am eighteen. Eighteen! then I know