The Jew of Malta.
There have I hid close underneath the plancke
That runs along the upper chamber floore,
The gold and Jewels which I kept for thee.
But here they come; be cunning Abigall.
Abig.
Then father goe with me.
Bar.
No, Abigall, in this
It is not necessary I be seene.
For I will seeme offended with thee for't.
Be close, my girle, for this must fetch my gold.
Enter three Fryars and two Nuns.
1 Fry.
Sisters, we now are almost at the new made Nunnery.
1 Nun.
The better; for we love not to be seene:
'Tis 30 winters long since some of us
Did stray so farre amongst the multitude.
1 Fry.
But, Madam, this house
And waters of this new made Nunnery
Will much delight you.
Nun.
It may be so: but who comes here?
Abig.
Grave Abbasse, and you happy Virgins guide,
Pitty the state of a distressed Maid.
Abb.
What art thou daughter?
Abig.
The hopelesse daughter of a haplesse Jew,
The Jew of Malta, wretched Barabas;
Sometimes the owner of a goodly house,
Which they have now turn'd to a Nunnery.
Abb.
Well, daughter, say, what is thy suit with us?
Abig.
Fearing the afflictions which my father feeles,
Proceed from sinne, or want of faith in us,
I'de passe away my life in penitence,
And be a Novice in your Nunnery,
To make attonement for my labouring soule.
1. Fry.
No doubt, brother, but this proceedeth of the spirit.
2 Fry.
I, and of a moving spirit too, brother; but come,
Let us intreat she may be entertain'd.
Abb.
Well, daughter, we admit you for a Nun.
Abig.
First let me as a Novice learne to frame
My solitary life to your streight lawes,
A
