civil and uncyvile life.  
A discourse very profitable, pleasant, and fit to be read of all Nobility and Gentlemen.  
Where, in form of a Dialogue is disputed, what order of life best beseemeth a Gentleman in all ages and times: aswell for education, as the course of his whole life: to make him a parson fit for the public service of his prince and Country, and for the quiet, and comeliness of his own private estate and calling.  
Imprinted at London, by Richard Jones, and are to be sold at his shop over against Saint sepulchres Church. 1579.   

To the right Honourable, Sir Francis Walsingham Knight, her majesties principal Secretary, and of her highness privy Counsel: Richard jones Printer, wisheth long life, health, and increase of honour.  
RIght Honourable Sir, sometimes, a pretty conceit well conveyed, contenteth the mind, no less than a grave & great book. In every written work, two things be specially required, Invention, and Phrase: The one, is the substance or matter: the other, the form or fashion: but if they be both good, they make the work perfit, & win the worker commendation. Yea, otherwhiles, a silly Subiet substantially handled, is not only passable, but also praisable. A little flower well savoured is worthy smelling: A trifling stone set by a cunning craftsman, deserveth to be worn: A poor Pamphlet perfectly handled, asketh the reading. I beseech you then, give leave, and let me present your Honour with this little Dialogue, written by a Gentleman, rather for pastime, than settled study: and yet in my poor mind, both for wise conceit and pleasant penning, worthy to be read. The Author thereof (as a thing unworthy) is neither content it should presume to your presence, nor pass among the wise. Notwithstanding, without his leave, I make bold to adventure the one and the other: And do most humbly dedicated the same to your Honour, the rather because he hath loved you long, and honoured you much. I crave small praise for my Printing of it, and he (being used to lose his labour) desireth nothing.  
Your Honours always (most humbly) to command. R. jones.   

THE AUTHOR, to the Gentlemen Readers.  
ALbeit I well know, that every Gentleman, will gentlemanly judge of all things: yet have I thought it no restraint, but happily some furtherance towards their courteous consideration, most humbly to pray pardon if aught in this present Pamphlet, be found either in very reason, dissenting from wiser judgements, or else through diversity of humours, not fitting with their fancies: For some I have seen so passionate in opinion, as can not see or hear patiently any thing that contenteth not their own eye, or squareth not even with the rule of their own minds. But, if it pleased them to consider how hardly men's opinions be brought to concur, they would (I am sure) spare themselves, and not with choler & offence, so often trouble their own thoughts. Opinion and custom (as daily experience teacheth) do lead every one, be he never so foolish or barbarous, to believe his own country conditions, and self conceits to be best: and therein they that have lest reason, do no less constantly tarry, than those that upon sound reason in deed, experience, and learning, have firmed their judgements. For, do we not find that the savage Nations, are as loath to altar their soil, as are we that inhabit a most civil Country? Or do you not think, that many either through want of will or lack of patience to learn, account men mad, that hold themselves at continual study? And contrariwise, would any civil man be pleased, to abandon his being, to abide among the savage? or that would leave the study of good letters, to take pleasure in those joys, which ignorant men delight in? surely no: and no marvel, sith the wisest, yea the Philosophers themselves, have even to this day dissented in opinion. For some you see have sought the contemplative life: others commended the active: and many preferred pleasure, as that which aught most to be desired. Sigh then, for so many reasons you find difference in the opinions of men: and that no counsel, wit, or will, can persuade them to one mind: my meaning is not, that though in this Dialogue according to mine own fancy, I prefer the Town habitation, yet thereby to find fault with any, that either because his reason so persuadeth, or his own mind so delighteth, will drive out his days in the Country. It shall therefore please me, that every man please himself, using the liberty and will of his own mind: and though it be far diverse from mine, yet I know not why his opinion should trouble me, or mine offend him: so long as the direction of either, be still in our own powers. What harm was it to Achilles, though Socrates refusing all honours, put his whole felicity in virtue? And why should Socrates be offended, though above all things, Achilles' desired honour? What maketh it matter, though Heraclitus, thought that nothing was contrary to other? Or what offence was it that Permaenides, frantically affirmed, all worldly things to be but one thing? And if Zeno persuaded himself that nothing moved? All which opinions and errors, could nothing disturb the patience of the true Philosophers, who set their delight in contemplation, and love of Th'almighty.  
Tot capita, tot sensus, the Proverb saith: We see then, that the ends of man's delights be diverse, and for the most part contrary: although the end of every man's life, is one. The life of man may therefore be compared to Iron, which being used, becometh bright and shining, yet at last worn to nothing: Or if it be not used, but laid up, doth nevertheless consume with rustiness. Even so, man's age well employed, weareth with some gloss or brightness of Fame: or if it be without action, and obscurely passed, yet doth it not continued ever: for death (certain) is the end both of the one and the other. God grant that every man may live in the true fear of the Lord, and the due obedience of his Prince, so shall he either in Court, Town, or Country, most happily end his days.  
FINIS.   

The Argument and occasion of this Dialogue.  
IT happened (as oft it doth) that diverse Gentlemen being convited to dine togethers: Among many other things, they chanced to fall in speech of the Country and Courtly lives, reasoning whither it were better for the Gentlemen of England to make most abode in their Country houses, (as our English manner is,) or else ordinarily to inhabit the Cities and chief Towns, as in some foreign Nations is the custom. These Gentlemen as they were diversly disposed and used, so were their opinions of this matter likewise differing: some commending the Country dwelling, others preferring the City habitation. This matter a while spoken of by every one, was at length by assent of the whole company disputed by two Gentlemen, th'one (for this time) I will call Vincent, th'other Valentine, both men of more than common capacity, & (haply) somewhat learned. Vincent had been brought up in the Country: Valentine his education and life was in Courts and Cities. Either of them with the best reasons they could, maintained their opinions, as hereafter in this discourse you shall plainly perceive.   

Of civil and uncyvile life.  The Speakers, Vincent and Valentine. 
IT is a strange matter to see, how men in this age, and in this Realm of England, begin to altar their manners & customs, not only in garments, & ordinary behaviour, (which be things of none importance:) But even in their order of life, and conversation.  Valentine. 
Sir, it is true, that some do, but the most do not: But wherein I pray you, do you note the chief change, and in what sorts of men, and whether is this alteration, from worse to better, or from better to worse?  Vincent. 
This change (whereof I mean) is like to the rest of worldly changes: that is, from the better to the worse: For as the Proverb saith: Seldom comes the better.  Valentine. 
That Proverb in deed is ancient, and for the most part true, being truly applied: yet because I am loath to mistake your meaning, I desire to know, whether in lamenting of alteration, you include the whole world, or some particular country: or whether you will have me to apply it to England, and to some sorts of English men only: For with other Nations (I suppose) you have practised little.  Vincent. 
In deed, I am a home bred bird, and therefore will not take upon me to discourse of foreign customs, though I hear they be bad enough: But as I told you at the first, I am sorry to see Englishmen, so apt to leave their ancient good fashions, and fall into foreign manners, many poor mind, much worse, than our own. And because our talk shall not be over tedious, I will not at this time tell you of all faults (whereof I wish amendment:) But only of one matter, and that in one sort of men.  Valentine. 
You do very wisely to reduce matters into brief, wherein you shall both ease yourself, and help my memory, which is, (I confess) but little worth.  Vincent. 
I know (Master Valentine) your memory is very good, & so is there in you many other commendable parts, though you, for modesty, will not so say.  
For you travelers are full of respects: and in all your doings, your manner is to use modesty.  Valentine. 
I thank you Sir, for so saying, and more I thank you if such be in deed your opinion of me.  Vincent. 
Touching mine opinion, you shallbe assured, it is, and ever shallbe such, as I say: For I am (as I told you) a plain man, utterly unacquainted with disguising, and superfluous ceremony, yea in troth, they are things much divers, from mine education, and nature.  Valentine. 
I love you a great deal the more, for in good faith, I am made of the self same mould. And though (desire to know) did carry me in youth far from home, and that into Countries, both beyond the Seas, and Mountains also, yet have not those airs any whit, altered my love from my natural Country.  Vincent. 
That so being (as upon your word, I will now believe it is) I will trust the rather to your talk, and think that, what you do answer to my demands, is in troth, that yourself doth faithfully follow.  Valentine. 
I pray you (Master Vincent) lay by these courtesies, and fall to the matter of your demands. For me thinks, (though you would be called a plain man) yet you use more ceremony, than I, that have spent some part of my life in Countries, where those customs are most plentiful.  Vincent. 
Well, than I will hold you no longer in these complaints, (which words I learn of you travelers.) But fall into the matter itself.  Valentine. 
Indeed Sir, that is my desire, & sith it seemeth, that the subject of your speech shallbe in comparing of our country customs, with those of foreign nations, I hope you will hold me blameless, (though occasion being offered) I happen to find fault with somewhat of our own, and commend the customs of others: which I will do the more boldly, because you told me, you loved plainness, and therefore be content, our talk may be free speech, and without respect.  Vincent. 
On God's name, so let us proceed, and (as I promised) lest our talk should extend too far, I will neither ask your opinion of all customs, nor of all sorts of men: but only desire to be resolved of one doubt, in one thing, which toucheth me only, and others of my degree and condition.  Valentine. 
And I pray you Sir, what may that be?  Vincent. 
You know the use and ancient custom of this Realm of England was, that all Noble men and Gentlemen, (not called to attendance in our Prince's service) did continually inhabit the countries, continuing there, from age to age, and from Auncester, to ancestors, a continual house, and hospitality, which got them great love among their Neighbours, relieved many poor wretches, and wrought also diverse other good effects, as hereafter I will tell you.  Valentine. 
In deed Sir, I will not deny, that the Country air is wholesome, to gain the love of neighbours is very good, and to relieve the poor is an act of much charity: But to what end speak you this, for to your well liking of these matters, every man will essent.  Vincent. 
I wish to God, they would: but I see, that Gentlemen begin to take another course, & falling from the use of their Ancestors, do now either altogether (or very much) leave to devil in their Country houses, inhabiting Cities, and great Towns, which manner of living, I cannot allow, Though it be (as I hear) used in foreign Countries. And because you have seen both fashions, my desire is (as a man of experience in both) you will faithfully inform me, which of these orders of living you like best.  Valentine. 
Ah Sir, now at length you are come to the matter, which (as I conceive) is nothing else, but that you would know whither it were best that gentlemen, should inhabit (as they did anciently) their own houses in the Country, or the Cities, as in many foreign nations the custom is.  Vincent. 
In troth, that is the some and whole effect of my demand, and nothing else I will for this time desire to know your opinion of, unless occasion of our speech shall so require.  Valentine. 
For my opinion herein (thought it be of small authority) such as it is I will tell you plainly, yet (as it seemeth by your former speech) it will descent with yours. For as you commend the continual habitation of the country, so do I utterly disallow thereof, as a custom, neither good for the common wealth, neither for the gentiles that do use it: which you shall perceive plainly, if it please you to compare the commodities with the discommodities, of either: the good, with the bad, which is in either: the profit with the disprofit, which is in either: the quiet, and disquiet which is in either. And the security, with the hazard that is in either: all which (without private Passion) well weighed, will easily lead you to the troth: But first, because you affect the country life, I pray you commend it particularly, the best you may, and give me leave to remember you with the discommodities thereof, lest you grow over fat, with feeding upon your own affection. When it cometh to my lot to speak of my liking, you shall without offence, be as bold with me.  Vincent. 
With all good will (Master Valentine,) But I pray you mark well what I say, and forget (during my discourse) the particular love you bore to some Italian or Spanish Lady, during your abode, on that side: Lest that private Passion doth make your liking to their customs so delicate, as you loathe our own country quiet, and commodity.  Valentine. 
Nay Sir, you shall not need to doubt any such partiality, for it is long sithence I was there: and besides that, my blood is now over cold to kindle any such fire. And therefore to our purpose.  Vincent. 
Then I pray you understand, that I remain of the ancient mind of our English Gentlemen, who ever, even to this day (or very lately) did think the country habitation best, as a life and education most honest, most pleasant, and most profitable.  Valentine. 
I like the division very well: in any wise, proceed in that order.  Vincent. 
I have ever, and ever will account, that education, & life most honest, which is nourished in justice, truth, and plain dealing, free from fraud, and dissimulation: things (as I think) little used among us plain men of the Country: And first to speak of education of our Children, we acquaint them not with any crafty company: we clad them simply to eschew pride: we feed them grossly, to harden their bodies: and we teach them School learning, to know good from bad: other qualities in their childhood, we commonly do not give them, as things which are either hurtful or superfluous: being grown to riper age, we send them to the University, where many become so learned, as they gain by learning their own living: or if not, yet such taste of learning, as they are the better. Some also we bring up in the Inns of Court, where if they profit, we suffer them to proceed: if not, speedily revoke them from thence, lest they acquaint themselves to much, with the licentious customs of the City: as with quarrelling, dicing, dancing, deceiving, lusting, braving, & indetting. To teach them these, there wanteth not in every street instructors enough. We therefore hold it best, not to hazard our children abroad from our houses, unless it be in these places of order, and there also suffer them not to continued, unless we see their disposition to learning. To serve in Court, or follow the war, we account those lives rather lewd, then laudable: these trades are commonly hard, and their hazard greater, than we (being borne to wealth, and worship) will put our Babes unto: In conclusion, our care in education of children is such, as we study chiefly to make them honest and just, wise and wealthy, obedient and assured.  
Which commodities, others that haunt the Court the City, the War, and the world: either they want, or with great hap, or hazard they have them. Thus much I think shall suffice, to inform you of our education, I think you partly know it, else I would speak at more large: How do you allow thereof tell me plainly? And then I will speak of our lives, and how honestly we live. For that was my promise.  Valentine. 
I allow of your zeal to honesty in education, but if you mix it with some other things, I will like it the better. That you study to bring up your children in honesty, which is virtue, and chiefly justice (for of that virtue men be called good) I do not only allow you, but commend you: Yet if you remember what Tully telleth you, (for sure I am you have been a Scholar That men are not only borne to themselves: Then will you add some other virtues and knowledges to these, you wish to be in your children, for beside, that all men are not apt for one thing, yet is it commendable, nay rather necessary, that there be persons prepared for sundry actions, not so much to serve their own turns, as their Prince and Country: Respects of more inportaunce, than the safety of any private Gentleman, either his person, his patrimony, or his Parents. For as you said the sum of your intent, was to frame your children to be honest, & just: wise, & wealthy: obedient and assured. All which things I allow, as laudable, being not misunderstood. And first, touching honesty & justice, I account them as one: for indeed, an honest man, is a just man: & a just man is honest: & that is he that liveth justly & honestly, in respect of love to honesty & justice: and not he that is just, either for fear, or for lack of skill, to be worse: for virtue is a voluntary, & knowing good habit: Therefore if your Son be honest & just, either for fear of punishment, or for ignorance, because he knoweth not how to be unjust, or false, I assent not unto you, for then, he may be rather called a good, honest, just fool, than an honest, or just wise man: Touching the next, which are to be wise and wealthy, to put these two into one, it may happen to prove that they concur, though most commonly I have seen few wise men wealthy: not because wealth shunneth wisdom: but rather, because wisdom seldom seeketh after wealth. Yet in your sense (I suppose) it may stand well: for you account no man wise, but those that be wealthy: and I do also assent unto you, so that you are content to mean sufficient wealth: but to seek after private goods, omitting all public action, and private contemplation, I hold not that man wise, for he shall do (as Marcus the Emperor said of Merchants:) Labour and live miserably, to die rich: To the third of your ends, whereunto the education of your children tended, which is obedience with safety: surely, for the first there is no nation, not, scantly the most barbarous, but will commend obedience, & therein rest you firm: but what you mean by safety I do not so well know, but for aught I conceive, it is the eschewing of peril & pains, which being your intent (as it seemeth it is) I can by no means assent unto you. For if you consider well (as men's bodies be diverse,) so are their minds & inclinations diverse: every one is not disposed to one thing, nor to one action, & therefore when you disallow of alsorts of learning & action, but of those that be for gain and reward, I account your judgement reproovable. I wish therefore clean contrary to your mind, that in respect of the common wealth, & the service thereof, (whereunto we are all bound, yea the best of us all) that such young Gentlemen as are not inclined to learning, should by their Parents, be not only suffered, and encouraged, but also to their powers enabled, to travail countries, & haunt the wars. In which trades of life although touching their persons, there be greater peril then in study at home: yet sith the common weal may not want such men, and those knowledges not gotten without peril. I judge it a less evil to hazard men's bodies in them (though many perish) then utterly to want them, and have our children safe at home. Every man by nature is condemned to die, & better it is to adventure an honest death, then to continued an improfitable life: To answer the rest of your speech, that in war, in Court, and City, is great store of evil company: Thereto I say there is also many good: Therefore good counsel of friends, & honest discretion of young men, may learn them to make choice: Besides that it is good, to know evil, not to use it, but to avoid it, and for the most part, things are indifferent, and not perfect. Besides virtue, there is nothing in perfection good, nor besides vice, nothing in perfection evil. Therefore though your child must needs know some evil, in learning good, yet is it better he know it, with some hazard, then want his good for fear of that hazard. If no man would approach the fire, because it hath burned many a house, and many a heedless man, also, that have fallen into it, than would many a one, frieze to death: & though the Sea, hath drowned many thousands, yet no wisdom would that sailing should be forbidden, for (as erst I said) in every thing excepting virtue, is commodity and discommodity, & when the good doth or may surpass the bad, no man doth (or at the lest aught) shun the adventure, where good is the mark, and the end honest.  Vincent. 
In good faith Sir, you have spoken more, than ever I did heretofore consider: for in deed, when I bethink me of your discourse, I remember how diversely my poor children are in nature affected, some of them are of themselves very bookish, others for none enticement, or compulsion can be brought to learn, so as (I suppose) you say truly, that if I durst hazard their persons, & suffer them to try their fortune abroad, they might attain to somewhat. And Fortune (as some Clerks say) is very friendly to folk adventurous.  Valentine. 
Well, I am glad, my speech hath drawn you to consideration, of any good thing, before either unthought of, or forgotten. But I am sure you take my meaning, as it is, to remember you, & not to council you.  Vincent. 
Sir, I thank you, that you yield me that honour, to say so: this proceedeth of your favour. But I must confess troth, that I never cast my mind so far from home. And I thereby conceive that a common wealth, hath occasion aswell to employ men expert in war, as others learned in laws, though of these we have most use.  Valentine. 
Yea Sir, thereof assure yourself, and in some Countries where God hath suffered unquietness, there is more want of good Captains, then learned Doctors: yea in such estate hath our Country been, and may be: for nothing is assured, but besides Warriors, Princes have occasion to employ many other Gentlemen of experience. For I can account unto you sundry honest qualities that are very commendable in men, and necessary for the state.  Vincent. 
Fain would I be informed of all. But first let me entreat you, to tell what are, or aught to be, the chief professions of a Gentleman?  Valentine. 
That can I do, and in few words.  Vincent. 
So much the better, for my memory shall the more easily bear them away, therefore without more request. I pray you proceed.  Valentine. 
The chief and only professions, whereby a Gentleman should receive advancement, or commendation, are Arms, and Learning. For in these two only should he exercise himself.  Vincent. 
Surely Sir, they seem to be noble qualities, but I think hard to excel in them. But is not Husbandry, Tillage, grazing, Merchandise, buying and selling, with such other trades (as we Country men use) things meet for a Gentleman?  Valentine. 
In plain speech I tell you, that I think not one of them fit for a gentleman's exercise.  Vincent. 
And why so? are they not commonly used of Gentlemen? and by them they do receive daily profit: the laws do allow of them as things commendable. Also by them many poor younger brethren without land (as commonly they are all) do by the Plough, maintain himself, his wife and family.  Valentine. 
A poor maintenance, and a flow thrift, God knoweth, and full evil it becometh the person of a Gentleman to practise any of these trades.  Vincent. 
Then I pray you tell me how many ways a man, without land, may gain his living Gentlemanlike.  Valentine. 
There are three ways to do it.  Vincent. 
And which are they, I pray you inform me?  Valentine. 
There is Art, Industry, and Service.  Vincent. 
What you mean by every of these, I pray you let me know, for I am borne, I thank God to some revenues of mine own, and therefore have little studied to attain to any thing, save that my lot hath brought me unto.  Valentine. 
The better is your fortune, that have by succession only, the whole fruit of all your ancestors travail.  Vincent. 
Even so it is in deed, I thank God & them for it: But I pray you answer to that I ask you.  Valentine. 
Such Arts as I wish a Gentleman sholud learn, must be those that commonly are called Liberal Sciences. Which and how many there be of them, you may easily know, yea and to what purpose they serve.  Vincent. 
But tell me, are not the laws a study very fit for a Gentleman?  Valentine. 
Yes surely, both the laws Civil & Common are studies most excellent, & to speak briefly, all learnings, that tend to action in the state either Civil, or martial.  Vincent. 
Now you seem to talk of great mysteries, but we gentlemen in the Country, unless our sons proceed in the study of the common laws, Divinity, or Physic, do hold them learned enough if they can writ and read English, and congrue Latin.  Valentine. 
If your son wade no deeper in learning, better untaught at all. And I am of this mind, that these common Schools (whereof in England are many) that receive all sorts of children to be taught, be their Parents never so poor, and the Boys never so unapt, do often times rather harm the good, because there they continued so long, as a good mystery or occupation might have been learned. For as I say, unless the child be apt for learning, and his friends resolute in holding him to it, the thing were better unattempted.  Vincent. 
Now (Master Valentine,) you seem to speak strangely, as though Writing, Reading, and the Latin tongue, were nothing worth.  Valentine. 
Sir, I do not so say, but to gain a living by them without further learning, I think it hard. And therefore poor men that put so many unapt children to the School, do nothing else, but offer them loss of time: For do you not meet many beggars that can do all these, and yet you see their estate is plain beggary?  Vincent. 
That is true in deed, but yet if they be honest and personable, they are the fit to become Servants to attend upon a Noble or Worshipful man.  Valentine. 
I am glad you have remembered me of servingmen, for hereafter I will tell you more of my mind touching them, in the mean time, these qualities being of no necessity, will little amend their entertainment, and their certainty nothing.  Vincent. 
Well, I do now conceive, what learning you think meet for a Gentleman, and that for poor children (unless they proceed to some perfection in learning) they were better untaught: & in troth to have a good occupation, I think is a sure trade to take unto, then bore writing and reading.  Valentine. 
Touching Industry, I wish that young Gentlemen (having no art) should sundry ways, yea, every ways honest, try their fortune.  Vincent. 
And how I pray you? for of my credit (if I had no revenues of mine own,) I could not tell, how to gain a groat.  Valentine. 
Yet do not you see many younger brethren, that even in foreign Countries, have aspired to great pensions: others have happened upon good Marriages, others for some notable, and egregious act, have attained both profit and honour, when others for very sloth or cowardice do live at home, almost in beggary. Did not they better that did adventure themselves?  Vincent. 
Yes indeed, but there are few, whom fortune so well favoureth, and in attempting these matters many do miscarry.  Valentine. 
No doubt of that, else their reward aught not to be so great, for things easy, without hazard, every blockhead doth take in hand, and yet to encourage young men, aswell in Industry, as Art, I pray you consider how few of infinite numbers do prove learned in the Universities: how few Prentices do prove rich Merchants: and how few Law Studients become judges: And then shall you find the number of industrious men that thrive, is like to the rest.  Vincent. 
If I were sure, my Son should attain to that good hap you speak of, (and that some perhaps, have aspired unto.) Then could I be content, he should hazard himself: but I find the dangers many, & the hope so little, as I hold better to keep him at home in the state of a poor younger brother, then see him seek a good, so desperate.  Valentine. 
The more unwise you, and by so saying you discover the baseness of your mind, your small judgement and less experience: For if you had seen the Courts of Princes, or the wars: you shall find in every of them, not only many young Gentlemen of your condition: But also many your betters, the Sons of Knights, Barons, Earls, Dukes, and Princes, & many of them, as ready to hazard their lives, for their honour & Country, as the poorest or proudest Soldier. Do you then take scorn that your Son should submit himself to that peril, that these Princes do adventure? And if you consider how many, even of base name & birth, through industry only, without art, have not only gained themselves, goods and glory: but also thereby have given honour to all their Posterity, I suppose you would not only adventure your younger Son, but my young Master, your heir also, yea (rather than fail) your own person. For had your first Ancestors been no more industrious than you seem, surely your name and house, had not had that worship and wealth it hath. These reasons may, me thinks move you to hope well of industry: But to confirm you, I will recite the names of some few, whose industry hath not only gained themselves glory, but also their Country infinite good. How say you to Colombus, and Vesputius, whose industry discovered the west part of the world: from whence the King of Spain fetcheth yearly great Treasure? Also what do you think of Magelanus, that sailed about the world: yea to come nearer to your knowledge, do you not think that Master Frobusher, by his industry, and late travail; shall profit his Country, and honour himself? Yes surely, and a munber of others, who though they have not performed so notable matters, yet have they won themselves reputation, and mean to live, some more and some less, according to their virtue and fortune.  Vincent. 
In good faith, you have spoken very reasonably, I will no more be so loath to let my children go seek their adventure. Now tell me somewhat of service, for (as I remember) that was the third way to advancement.  Valentine. 
In troth, I so said, and so I mean. Service, I say, hath advanced many, and daily doth, it can not much differ from industry, saving that it hath somewhat a straighter rule: but desire of honour in the courageous, and necessity in the poor, doth drive them to refuse none adventure: Those young Gentlemen therefore, that find themselves of mind capable, & of body disposed, I wish them to haunt the war, wherein though the princes be great, and the peril much, yet it entertaineth the life, and in time yieldeth honour: it is the common custom of France and other Countries, that young gentlemen be brought up, as Pages in Court so soon, as their Pagery is past, they become Soldiers in some Band or Garrison, where (after knowledge and proof) they become Officers: from Officers, Captains of companies, and many of them governors of Towns, Colonels, and Chieftains. Is not this a better course for young Gentlemen than tarry at home in their Fathers or Brother's house, and keep a Sparhawke, or a kennel of bawling Dogs, or that (which in mine opinion, is as bad?) Mary himself with some poor Maiden, and through charge of Children, become a very Farmer, or Ploughman, which things though they be honest, and fit for some men, yet for a Gentleman utterly unmeet.  Vincent. 
I am half of your mind, but this Realm hath seldom wars, and few Garrisons, where we should resort to learn, and less means to employ or entertain such young men, as are apt & willing to serve.  Valentine. 
It is true, & yet are there more occasions to call than to it, than they take, & more mean to entertain than, than (for aught I see) men of mind to discern them, and were our nation so desirous of honour, and their own good, as some others are, there would never be less, than two or three hundredth young Gentlemen wandering the world abroad, & seeking adventures: yea, I suppose, we English Gentlemen have so heretofore used the matter: how could else, johannes Acutus, an English man have kept that stir in Italy that he did: who (as iovius, and other Cronacleirs say) led 5000. English voluntary Soldiers, and during the contentions between Guelph and Gibellinj, did many services & exploits very memorably?  Vincent. 
But I pray you, are there no otherways for gentlemen's preferment, than the exercise of war?  Valentine. 
Yes Sir, else God forbidden: for I would have no man (chiefly poor men) to account that the war is their occupation: But rather how to serve at occasions, and the service done, quietly to retire themselves to their own houses, Masters, friends, or other industry, not doing as I see many lusty young Soldiers do, beg in the streets, when with a little pains they could get themselves a way to live.  Vincent. 
But what shall the young Gentlemen soldiers do, for (I think you know,) they have no handy craft to fly unto?  Valentine. 
That I know well, neither would I wish them to meddle with any mechanical manner of living, as a thing utterly unfit for Gentlemen. And therefore I will say that sith the number of those soldiers is small, in respect of the other multitude, they might easily be (or the greater part of them) received into Garrisons, and into the service of Noblemen, and others their good friends, who knowing them virtuous, would be glad of their service, nay rather their company.  Vincent. 
In deed the number of Gentlemen, that follow the war, is nothing, in respect, of the multitude: and therefore either service, their own industry, friends, or fortune may, (as you say continually) hold them in heart, and ability to live.  Valentine. 
Doubt you not thereof, specially, if they be honestly and thriftily inclined: for some I have seen so careless, as they never forecast what want may follow. But finding themselves plentifully applied, do spend as much in one year, as fortune & friends have gained in many: therefore to provide for them I mean not.  Vincent. 
Yet one question more, touching service: Are there not other services besides the war, fit for a Gentleman, whereby he may be maintained or happily advanced?  Valentine. 
Else the world were hard, though the war aught to occupy the greatest number. For (if you forget not) I told you long since, that the profession of a Gentleman might be either Arms or Learning: whereof, if he hath any taste, with some wisdom and experience, he may not only serve in the house and affairs of Noblemen, and Officers, but also the Prince himself, yet if his learning be not in perfection, or excellent in some liberal science or laws, I would wish he added thereunto Industry. In conclusion, what gentle man so ever hath in him either by nature or nurture, any virtue, singularity, or industrious knowledge, cannot want place either Martial or Civil, either in his own native Country, or else where. And though perhaps you see many in Court even by mere flattery, yea, some almost witless, win more wealth & worship, than many others, yet assure yourself that virtue is the true way unto them: & when occasion of service doth happen, men of value & virtue be those that shall stand their country in steed, and honour themselves.  Vincent. 
Yet tell me I pray you, which are the means, to enter into the course and order, to be advanced to some good, either martial or Civil, as you term them?  Valentine. 
And that will I briefly tell you, let him that affecteth the war, apply himself to serve, or follow some Noble man, or expect Captain, that is either in continual service Martially, or that is likely to be used at occasion, for most commonly we love those, and desire their good, whose studies and inclinations be like unto our own. And such as find themselves disposed to learning, or any civil function, let them follow or serve those learned or wise persons, to whom the state hath given those authorities and trust.  Vincent. 
Truly 〈◊〉 tell me a way very likely, & reasonable, for at such time as the last war was in France, I mean at New haven, (where as you know who was the General,) I hard him commend the courage▪ and conduct not only of principal Captains, and Gentlemen, but 〈…〉 of private Soldiers: yea many years, sithence that time, you shall yet upon small occasion hear the like at his hand, as though their doings, and the means names were written in the sniddest of his memory.  Valentine. 
Well, now I perceive you understand me, and as this Noble man did and doth honour men of his profession so doubt, you not, but likewise will others. And yet to acquit your tale I remember I have heard him tell more than once of one poor Soldier, who in rescuing, or revenging an other English man, assailed by two Almains with their slaugh sword, slew them both with his own hand: even in his sight, which both we, and every man must say, was a part of a courageous Soldier, and the General often speaking thereof a sign, he honoured his desert, and desired his advancement.  Vincent. 
But I pray you, is this the manner of other great men, to honour those that serve under them in their profession? I ask of you, because you live in Court, where are great personages, both in the knowledge of Arms and learning?  Valentine. 
Yea surely, though I cannot so particularly name the matters: yet many Gentlemen there be so studious and painful, as both in Civil & Martial affairs are very expert, and you shall hear great men that can judge, much commend them, yea to the Prince, by whose bounty all sorts of virtuous men are advanced.  Vincent. 
I begin to rest satisfied, touching education: and am persuaded, (and so will persuade with other Gentlemen my friends) that they shall adventure their Sons, more than the old custom was, sith either by their adventure, they shall live and become virtuous, or (as we Englishmen call it) of good qualities, or else die honestly in seeking to make themselves fit for the Prince's service, and their own reputation.  Valentine. 
I am very glad that my poor reasons have taken good effect, but therein I will challenge no more to myself, than I deserve: which is, that I have put you in mind of that you either forgot, or else for want of leisure) never considered: For I acknowledge you of much more wisdom and judgement than I am. Doth it please you to command me any further service?  Vincent. 
You will never leave your Ceremonies (Master Valentine,) I know you are more wiser, and more expert than I am: but your natural courtesy and modesty, doth move you to yield more respect than is due unto me, I thank you for it, and loath I am to seem tedious, else I entreat you to hold your promise: that is, to hear me tell of our country commodities & the content wherein we live there: For though I now yield, that the education of Gentlemen is best abroad, yet me thinks their continual habitation should be best in the Country at home.  Valentine. 
I hope you will not ever devil in that opinion: but I pray you begin to tell of your Country delights, and what is your manner of living. I will with all my heart, both patiently hear you, and boldly (as you gave leave) tell you my mind, how I allow of your reasons.  Vincent. 
I say then, that our Country habitation is more godly, more honourable, more wholesome, more quiet, more pleasant, and profitable, than it can be in any City or Burrough.  Valentine. 
Surely Sir, you have spoken of great respects, why you should love the Country dwelling, and though I will believe that the thing is (as you say) yet sith we are in dispute of the matter, you must give me leave to demand either reasons or demonstrations, why indeed it is so?  Vincent. 
I will proceed, as orderly as I can, and make proof (as I hope) of all my speech, & first because I alleged, that our Country lives, (I speak without comparison) was more godly, than the life of the City: That opinion I conceive, because I find there, much love & charity, which as I take it, are two special marks of godliness, and seldom found in Cities, where every man almost, liveth to himself: For whereas Neighbours do meet often without ceremony, cheering, and conversing one with an other, without disdain, or envy, (as we do in the Country,) there I judge is love, and good neighbourhood: Likewise where hospitality is liberally kept, and many Children and Servants daily fed, with all other comers: there (as I also think) is much charity: in the Town it seemeth the contrary, there is no meeting of neighbours, without special convitation, no salutation, without much respect, & ceremony, no number of Servants, but those that for necessary uses are imployable. So as in brief, there seemeth to be little love among equals, and less liberality to inferiors: Whereupon I infer, that in Cities and Towns, is less plenty of both these properties: (I mean love and charity,) then is with us in the Country. How say you (M. Valentine,) have I spoken well or no?  Valentine. 
You speak ever exceeding well, yet I pray you with patience, hear what may be said to the contrary. It seemeth that ceremonies of civility, doth make you doubt of love among town inhabitants, and so consequently there wanteth some part of that godly good will you find, or imagine to be in the Country. Truly Sir, if you were aswell acquainted in any City, as you are in the Shire, where you abide: you should find the same affection among men, that there are, some more & some less of acquaintance and friendship amongst these men, as they be more or less a kin, allied, or of conformity, or disformitie in disposition. For there are few men so universally courteous or kind, as make account of all men alike (which so being) bringeth me to believe, that when good friends are disposed to meet, it is better to be either invited, or occasioned, then (as they do in the Country) hand over head resort to a gentleman's house, where (because the Master doth not make choice of his guests, sometimes very strangers do there meet, yea, other whiles mere enemies, which (as you can conceive) must needs mar all the mirth. And if any of these guests do happen to receive less courtesy, or entertaimnent than the other, he falleth forthwith into offence or jealousy against the Master of the house, and hold him more than half his foe. Which displeasure could not happen, if no man would resort thither unbidden: Besides that, (if you mark it well) when a knot of good and familiar friends be met, to make merry, and talk, (as true friends often do) merrily, and liberally: if but one extraordinary man (none of this troop) doth hap to come in) you shall find all the mirth marred, and their free speech converted to respect, yea, (shall I tell all) that guest unlooked for, maketh one to many: for the number of lodgings. And so the Master of the house, is driven either to forsake his own bead, or discharge his unbiden guest.  Vincent. 
It is true that you say, that these unacquainted guests do occasion, alteration of cheer, and I myself in my poor house, have diverse times been so haunted with guests, as I was driven out of mine own bed, to lie at some tenants house of mine, for a night or two: Notwithstanding, I took it for no great trouble, so long as my friends found themselves content and welcome.  Valentine. 
But Sir, are you sure they were all your friends?  Vincent. 
Yea surely, I so think, though some of them I had never seen before that day.  Valentine. 
Do you not think you have as true friends as any of these haunt feasts, that devil far from you, or that do visit you at their occasions, or your own convitation?  Vincent. 
Yes truly, and my trouble the less, if we were less haunted, but the Country custom is, to bid every man welcome, and the more resort he hath, the more is the Master of the house honoured, and the more authority a Gentleman hath in the shire, the more is the resort unto him.  Valentine. 
Verily, I so think, for as his true friends do seek him for love and honour, so are there others that do it for flattery or fear: Thus you see how easily you may be deceived in the love of your Neighbours, and that haunting your house, may be for other cause or occasion, aswell as love.  Vincent. 
Sir, it may so be right well, but yet you can say little against me, touching our liberality and charity, which we use in the Country, keeping our gates open for all men, and feeding many tall fellows to attend upon us: also relyving all Beggars, that ask at our gates, with money, meat, or both.  Valentine. 
I am loath to speak against these customs, because they are the chief commendations of the Country: and yet, sith I have already my pardon and licence to say what I lust, against you, let me ask what sorts of men, do enter commonly within your gates, which (as you say) are never shut?  Vincent. 
There do resort unto us of all sorts, I mean Noble men, Gentlemen, Yeomen, our Neighbours, & many others, that either have occasion to come thither for business, or pass that way for their own affairs or pleasures.  Valentine. 
These men's presence in your houses, do rather honour you, than show that thereby you be charitable. But what be these tall fellows of whom you speak?  Vincent. 
They be our servingmen, that attend upon our Table, and follow us in the streets, when we be at London, or any other great Town, and furnish our halls at home.  Valentine. 
But I pray you, have they no other qualities, wherein to serve you, or do you use them, for no other purpose, then attend on your Table, or follow you as shadows.  Vincent. 
Surely no, neither is it the manner to offer them any labour or drudgery, for thereof they would take great scorn, being comely personages, & commonly the sons of some honest Yeomen, or Farmers of the Country.  Valentine. 
Then can I compare them to monks, and fat Friars, who under pretence of prayer, wan themselves a lazy life, and lived upon other's labour: So these men, being called men of service, do nothing less than serve: I do not therefore account you charitable in feeding of such idle folk: for that is said to be spent, or given charitably, which is bestowed on beggars, the blind, and lame, and such like: but not on these sturdy fellows, & needles servants.  Vincent. 
Do you so say Sir? were it for the worship of a Gentleman, having good land and revenues to keep no more servants, than (as they do in Cities) those that for their necessary uses they must needs employ? If we Gentlemen should so do, how should we furnish our halls? how should we be ready for quarrelers? or how should our Wives be waited on when they ride a broad, as commonly their custom is, chiefly in Summer, the fair season and hunting time?  Valentine. 
In good sooth, you have now said much, but nothing to purpose, for though it hath been a custom to keep these needless men, yet the custom being not good, or not profitable, it aught to be banished. Among the lubberly monks, and fat headed Friars, your halls will best show their good proportion, when they be not over full: your quarrels would be performed, with your own persons, and your wives (being well used) should be no common huntress, nor gadders abroad, though I deem not, such hath been the use that Ladies, and gentlewomen, (even in their husbands absence) should ride a hawking, or hunting.  Vincent. 
If this custom of keeping great numbers of servingmen had not been good, and commendable, how happeneth it, that neither laws hath forbidden it, nor experience hath not disproved it?  Valentine. 
I will tell you how (in mine opinion,) this cumbersome and unprofitable custom came, which in deed (as I think) at the first was very necessary, but now clean contrary.  Vincent. 
How can a thing be good once, and after prove evil, chiefly a custom so long used?  Valentine. 
Yes surely Sir, and you see many laws or statutes made with good consent, and upon just occasion, which afterwards become either so unprofitable, or so severe, as by like consent they be annulled, as you yourself, (even in your own age) might have marked: Likewise would customs which become unprofitable, or unfit for the common wealth be used. And touching our matter of many idle servants I think, that at such time, as this Realm was divided into sundry principalities, & that thereby continual quarrel and discord grew among the Princes, and their sundry subjects of necessity the Noble men, and Gentlemen were forced to keep the greatest number of Servants they were able: Not for the purposes you allege, but rather (as a Guard) to defend them from the fury of their enemies: either else this custom began in the time of the great civil wars, which continued many years, and was (as you know) called the Barons war. In these times, it was not only not folly, but rather great wisdom to have numbers of servants, and followers, though with charge, to attend upon Gentlemen for their defence: but had they lived in continual quiet, free from civil dissension, I suppose, they would not have continued those Garrisons for their vain glory, or their senseless ambition, (as I may call it.)  Vincent. 
In good earnest, you speak reasonably.  Valentine. 
Yea Sir, I can bring one other matter to your mind, whereof you may rather gather, that this peaceable Realm, hath been in times heretofore greatly traveled, and the Nobility in much peril: for if you consider well the sights, & manner of their most ancient houses, you shall find they were all (for the most part) either Castles or houses trenched, or Moted about: as buildings, made rather for defence, than other respect, either of pleasure or profit. Wherefore seeing they did choose an habitation for strength and defence, it is very like they also accompanied themselves, as strongly as they were able. And I dare warrant you that in those days, though they did (as we do) entertain many servants, yet was their consideration diverse from ours. For as we regard chiefly the comeliness of the person, so did they study to take them that were expert in the war, and weapon of that age: as Pikes, Bows, sword, and shields (for shot, I guess, they used not:) Also they made choice (as I likewise suppose) of men that were hardy and strong, because, (having little, or no use of Artillery or small shot,) the chief service consisted upon force: both in defence of their Castles or houses, and also in the field fight.  Vincent. 
All this while (I confess) you reason very probably: but now (thanks to god, and good government) we have no need, as they had, and yet have we as good revenues or more than the noble or Gentlemen of those ages, and enjoy them more quietly: why should we not then keep them still, to attend upon us for our honour & worship? And they are not altogether so unquallified, or idle, as you are persuaded.  Valentine. 
Then I pray you, inform me further of their virtues or qualities, sith I have plainly told you, for what cause the custom of Servingmen began, and of what condition they were.  Vincent. 
Among our Yeomen, you shall find some (yea very many) well brought up, and expert in sundry seemly, and necessary knowledges, without which they cannot (as they do) serve a noble man, or gentleman: and not to hold you in longer expectation what they are. You shall know that our servingmen, besides that they all, (or the greatest number) can well and decently wear their garments, and chiefly their livery coats, their sword & bucklers, they can also carve very comely at your table, as to unlace a Coney, to raise a Capon, trump a Crane, and so likewise handle all other dishes, and meats that are set on the board before you: some of them also can wrestle, leap well, run & dance. There are also of those, that can shoot in long Bows, cross Bows, or handgun: Yea there wanteth not some that are both so wise, and of so good audacity, as they can, and do (for lack of better company) entertain their Master with table talk, be it is pleasure to speak either of Hawks, or hounds, fishing, or fowling, sowing or graffing, ditching or hedging, the dearth or cheapness of grain, or any such matters, whereof Gentlemen commonly speak in the Country: be it either of pleasure or profit, these good fellows know somewhat in all.  Valentine. 
Verily sir, you have told me news, I would feign know more of these men, and of their feats, I will no more say virtues, for that smells to much of beyond seas.  Vincent. 
If you knew, what honour or worship these can do, to a Noble man in his Country house, you would rather give a good servingman forty pounds wages, then want his service some one day: I mean, either when you have store of strangers (for so we call our guests,) or else when you are from home: For in your absence, he cannot only see things in good order, but also entertain them, first in the Hall, next in your Parlour, (or if you keep that manner or estate) in your great Chamber, as a right good Gentleman, and some times a Lord, may be content (in their masters absence) to take all in good part: Yea to tell you all, some heirs, (I speak plainly in this place) be so simple, as their servingmen, by their counsel, in providing, foreseing, entertaining and sparing, do maintain their honours and worships.  Valentine. 
You speak well, for these sorts of servants, I lust not yet a while to reply, I pray you say on. Are these all, that his folly, & foolish ambition doth entertain? you must not tell what I say.  Vincent. 
I am sure you speak merrily: but yet I will proceed, these sorts of men be the most number: But besides them we have Subseruingmen, (as I may call them,) seldom in fight: As Bakers, Brewers, Chamberlains, Wardrobers, Faulkeners, Hunters, horse-keepers, Lackeys: and (for the most part) a natural Fool, or jester to make us sport: Also a Cook, with a Scullin or two, Launderers, Hynes, and Hogheards, with some other silly slaves, as I know not how to name them.  Valentine. 
I thought I had known all the retinue, of a Noble man's, or Gent. house. But now I find, I do not, for it seemeth a whole Army or Camp: and yet, shall I tell you truly what I think) this last number though it be lest, is the more necessary sort of servants, because these serve necessity, and the other superfluity, or (I may call it) ambition: But altogether they make a world: For my part, I had rather have a little with quiet, than a great deal with such confusion: for though money and provision be plentiful in the Country, yet spending, and eating, devoureth all: and for aught I conceive, there is no great charity in feeding of many of these men, who eat much, and get little.  Vincent. 
I must confess it true, that our charge is great, and some of them are also proud, and evil natured people, as were it not for their Parents sakes (who be our good friends, or Tennaunts) we would many times discharge our houses of them: But partly for those respects, and partly for fear, being out of service, they should fall into offence of law, we keep them, though to our great charge and discontent: for well you know, it were great pity to see a tall fellow to climb a Gibbet.  Valentine. 
Even so it were in deed: and yet, if you hap to have in your ground a fair great Tree, that yields you no fruit: but with the dove's thereof, over droppeth an Acre of grass, which thereby (I mean for want of sun shine) cannot prospero: were it not better to hue down this tree, then for the only beauty thereof, suffer it to grow to your continual loss and hindrance?  Vincent. 
Yes marry would I, but to what purpose would you apply this Parrable?  Valentine. 
I can compare a c●●ly unquallified servant to this Tree, for if he can none other good, but show forth his proper person, nor intendeth to be more profitable, it maketh no great matter, what becometh of him: chiefly, if he be unhonest, and of evil condition. Let not that therefore cumber your conscience: but a gods name prefer your profit before the relief or maintenance of such idle folk.  Vincent. 
In very deed sir, I have heard of learned Clerks, that God and nature hath made nothing in vain: whereupon I judge, that men who can no good, the fault is rather their own, than natures: yet doth it somewhat stay in my stomach, to discharge a lusty fellow, though his conditions be but scantly commendable. And the reason is because he becometh a house well.  Valentine. 
If that be all, that bindeth you to your charge, I will tell you how you shall better cheap furnish your house, then of these persons, of whom you have no other use, then to look on them, because they are comely.  Vincent. 
As how, I pray you? for considering the small service they do, and yet are men healthy & sound, I suppose it is no great charity to keep them.  Valentine. 
What I mean to tell you, is this: that you were best to 'cause all their pictures to be drawn in their best array, and hang them up in your Hall, and you shall find them as seemly furniture, as the men themselves, and yet they will put you to no cost, either in meat, money, or cloth.  Vincent. 
You speak merrily, but yet in good faith reasonably and truly, for sith these men be sound and strong, and will notwithstanding be idle, I believe to keep them, (chiefly with evil conditions) is no great charity, and having no service at their hands, I cannot maintain reasonably, that they are profitable.  Valentine. 
I am very glad, that you are persuaded to see, that many things used in the Country, & accounted godly, be not ever as they seem.  Vincent. 
In deed, I yield unto you, and had I considered so much a dozen years since, it would have saved me two thousand pounds of victuals, that these good fellows have devoured: But tell me touching my next allegation, honour and worship.  Valentine. 
To that I say, that your honour or worship, resteth not either in your Country abode, or keeping of many servants, but rather in your own virtue. For though wise men for courtesy, & fools through simplicity, do salute you with reverence, yet must you not think yourself the more honourable, unless you be in deed virtuous: I mean wise, valiant, just, temperate, liberal, affable, modest, and in some, endued with all sorts (or at the lest wise) with some virtuous moral and commendable conditions, whereby you may be known, and at occasions used, in the service of our Prince and Country, either Martially or Civilly: for those be occupations of all nobility, in which word is included all sorts of Gentlemen, aswell those that bear greatest Titles, as they that have less.  Vincent. 
I find it far otherwise than you say, for albeit a man be (as few are) in possession of all these virtues, which (you say) doth only make men honourable: yet if he be no Householder, nor keeper of servants, you see that in his Country, neither the neighbours will love him, nor the people do him reverence.  Valentine. 
I did not, nor will not speak against householdinge, nor yet have I inveighed against keeping of honest and necessary servants: but against the superfluity in either: For I confess that hospitality, be it in Town or Country, is good and godly, and also a testimony of liberality, which is a great virtue, and very commendable. But therewith be content that I tell you, that though all good housekeepers be the more honourable, yet every one that can not, or doth not keep house, or servant, must therefore be disdained or holden vile.  Vincent. 
I know not what ye mean by disdain or vilety, but I am sure, be a man never so virtuous, unless he be a housekeper, no man will in the country resort unto him, or if he walk in the City without servants attending on him, no man will put off his cap or do him reverence: how can then such a man be honourable?  Valentine. 
Yes, yes sir, as much (or perhaps) a great deal more, than he that spends a thousand pounds a year in his house, or hath in the Town twenty men to follow him. For though a virtuous man doth walk alone for lack of ability and riches, yet (if he be known) he shallbe honoured: though (for want of servants) he seemeth not to every one, that he is honourable, because it is the virtue of mind, and not the gifts of fortune, that honour is due unto.  Vincent. 
Me thinks, you speak well: and I must needs allow that a virtuous man (though he be poor) deserveth to be respected, and honoured: yet experience teacheth the contrary, that men of Title and wealth, are ever honoured, and the poorer sort (though full fraught with virtue) do pass without reputation: As for example, when we Gentlemen of the Country do reason, (as many times we do) of Noble men, Knights, and all other degrees, comparing some one to an other of the same calling: we account him more or less honourable or worshipful, as he is more or less landed or wealth.  Valentine. 
I do not understand you, I pray you tell me, as how you make your comparison.  Vincent. 
If there be two Lords in our Country, and the one hath twenty hundredth pounds in revenue, and the other but fifteen, we say, he that hath the more living is the more honourable Lord.  
And likewise, if two Knights, the one having a thousand pound rend, the other not half so much, we say they be both men of worship, but not worshipful alike, but the one more, the other less: And so from degree to degree, we make our estimation: Also you shall see it as a rule, taken and followed among Gentlemen, that he that hath less living, giveth place to him that hath more: though for birth and virtue, he much better. The same guise their good wives use in the Country: for a rich Lawyer's wife, or the wife of a lusty young Franklin, that is lately become a Gentlewoman (Graccho mercé, Monser le Harrault) will make no ceremony I warrant you to sit down and take place before any poor Gentlewoman, be she never so virtuous, well borne or married to a Gentleman in deed, of a good race, unless he hap to have either authority in the Country, or good plenty of living.  Valentine. 
I do now understand well, how the world walketh, and am sorry for it, sith that which is without the man should more honour him, then that is within him. This estimation I must (notwithstanding that the multitude do allow it) utterly reject as false and vile.  Vincent. 
And why? will you oppose yourself to the opinion of so many: I dare say, if you come into the country and ask of this matter, I warrant you they will say (without exception) the wealthier man, is the more honest man: and the greater landed Gentleman, the better man of worship.  Valentine. 
Then by that reason, my Lord Mayor's Horse, is a worthier beast, than Master Recorders Moil, because he carrieth a richer burden: For that in your account, things without us be those that honour the person. But this folly and false judgement in honour, cometh of ignorance, and ignorance proceedeth from your manner of life in the Country, where in deed, you never attend to know what doth become you, but what may enrich you, wherein you are far short of the Lawyer, and Ploughman, the one having a trade to catch coin, by his counsel and craft, the other by his labour and luck. You in the mean season (though in troth, attentive enough to hear of profit:) yet mixting your thirfty desire with mirth and solace, as banking, and hunting, can never attain to that wealth, which they do, and yet you will yield them honour. Certainly, if you had been traded up in the Court or Town, you would cast an other account of this matter, and be not so barely minded as to way the worth of men, by the rent of their lands or the money in their purses.  Vincent. 
I did not say, that this was my judgement, but the opinion almost universal, for if one man in the Country do hold your mind, I dare say you shall find an hundredth to encounter him.  Valentine. 
It may so be (chiefly in this corrupt age,) but for my part, though twice a hundredth men did encounter my judgement, I care not, for I am sure there is not one wise man among two hundredth.  Vincent. 
Well, I am content to yield rather to reason then the multitude, and believe with you, that men are more or less honourable, as they are more or less virtuous, not measuring them (as the multitude doth) as they are laid in Subsidy books.  Valentine. 
I thank you sir, for doing me such favour, as to concur with me in opinion. I pray you proceed in the rest of your country commendations.  Vincent. 
Then must I speak of the wholesomeness of our dwellings, which without contradiction is much more, than your abode in Cities, Court, or towns where the air is commonly straught, & the concourse of people great: which two things must needs breed contagion and sickness, there wanteth also commodity for exercise, which is a thing very necessary to maintain health, we may at our wills walk, & run, hawk, and hunt, our fields being spacious, and our game plentiful. All which things you want in Court & City, or with great difficulty you have them.  Valentine. 
Every commodity beareth about it, some discommodity: yet if I lust to reason, so needles a problem, I could say, that as Courts and Cities, by reason of the concourse of people become often times unpleasauntly aired, yet the sight is of more importance and worthier consideration. For it may be that a particular house in the country, (as commonly all old buildings were) be as low, and unholsomly placed, as any City, for here of was greater advise in sytinge it. Also therein are great provisions to prevent corruption and sickness: the people also being therein, are more neat and civil than they been in the country: For cleanliness is a special preservative against infection, yea, if you did, or could know the whole number of people that did inhabit London, or any other city, comparing them with as many of the Country, and mark how many died weekly of either, you should commonly see the thing would fall out indifferent, though at some one time died more Citizens, yet at some other you should find, as great plagues and sickness, among the Mass of your country folk. And for your exercises (which I confess are honest and good,) I will speak of them hereafter when you hap, (as you have promised) to praise the pleasure of your country dwelling: Let it then suffice, that touching the good or evil air and wholesomeness, or unholesomnes of our diverse dwellings, I refer you to the sight of the places, and leave them to your wisdom without comparing. We live here, till we can no longer, and you till you die: some are very healthy, and some ever sickly: some have much of the one, and some of the other. Every man to his fortune.  Vincent. 
Then sir, let that be, as be may, for I find in every air, some live long, & some less, though few so long as they would: but now let us common of our quiet.  Valentine. 
With all good will, I am content to hear you, say what you lust, for it will please me much, to know of your quiet life.  Vincent. 
Understand you (good Master Valentine) that our houses be, (or at the least) the most ancient of them, sited in places remote, and far from any City, Burrough, (or almost) Village, whereby we want those noisome noises of crying and carriages, which necessarily the Citizens must abide.  
Our gates be not every handwhile knocked, for either they are all day open, or that our Porters be still present to let men in and out, we are not much troubled with sending too and fro, for our provisions: because every Gentleman, if he be a man of any reasonable lands, and forecast, he hath about home, upon his own demeans, all sorts of victual for horse and man, and likewise fuel: So as in conclusion, I tell you he needeth not to disquiet himself, ●ither in sense or wit, unless it be some one ambitious Gentleman among many, who (because he would seem more venorable than the rest) willbe richly appareled, and fill his Seller with Wines of sundry sorts, which provision in deed we have not without sending to London, or some great City.  Valentine. 
I perceive (as partly I did before) that your houses be far from company, which in the respect you have spoken, are the more quiet, and yet me thinks, I would not want the comfort of neighboured for the quiet you have told us, which nevertheless may be enough: And whereas you allege that your provisions at hand doth acquit you of trouble, which we have in the town, therein I judge you deceive yourself. For albeit corn groweth on your own demean, and your wood likewise, also your cattle and all country food: yet dare I warrant you before such time as the same provisions be fit for your use (I mean, your Land manured, your corn reaped, your woods cut down, & all things ready, and brought home as they must be: your trouble and disquiet willbe much more than ours, that send twice a day from our house to the Market in the town where we devil.  Vincent. 
In deed I had forgotten, that we have much ado in seed season, to set forth our Ploughs, in harvest to reap our corn, and towards winter to lay in our fuel: But all these things yet we have without money, which you have not.  Valentine. 
Without money? But sir by your favour, not without cost, and other whiles we have them better cheap than you, though they grow on your own ground, as I will hereafter persuade when I shall answer you, touching the profit of the Country, which is one of your allegations,  Vincent. 
Then do I long much to hear, yet let me tell you one touch more of our quiet, which is our authority, for a number of us be justices, some of Quoram, and many of the Peace, some Shreeves some Surveyors, some Eschetors, some Feodaries, and such like, others also, though in no office, yet being descended of wealth and worshipful houses, are much respected, worshipped and feared of the people: But if the best of these remained in Court (without office there) or in the City or town, the meanest Merchant, or silliest Shoemaker, would scantly respect us, and none at all fear us.  Valentine. 
Nor we them: and yet shall I speak plainly, I had rather be worshipped or respected of one civil or wise man (such as live in Courts or towns) then of one hundredth Country louts, that either do salute you for flattery, or honour you ignorantly: And loath would I be, to find you so gross, as to think that among twice ten of those pleabeyall sorts, there be two of judgement enough to know what honour is due to one, more than to an other.  Vincent. 
And why so sir? yes I warrant you that they understand, what Noble man or Gentleman do devil near them, and what honour is due to either: Neither are they so ignorant, or uncivil, but if they hap to meet any such well appareled person, in his worshipful garments, or with a fair chain about his neck, the country lowers (as you term them) can so much good manner, as to put off their hats, and if the Gentleman be brave in deed, they will also do him other reverence.  Valentine. 
Not so, but I think verily they will often do reverence to the Gentleman's chain, or his brave coat, which courtesy men of judgement do not regard, for they would be honoured for themselves and their virtue, and though no man doth commit Idolitry to their chains, or garments they force little: which error I have seen not only common people to commit, but (by your leave,) many of your worshipful inhabitants, who by reason, you are continually abiding in the Country, you know neither the persons of the Nobility, nor yet the very Magistrates that govern. Whereby (when happily ye be called before them,) you know neither what difference to make, either of their persons or dignities. The like simplicity I have seen in your Wives: and yet in them more excusable, (because they may not modestly without your leaves, see so much of the world:) who when they come to Court, do neither know the gentlewomen from the Ladies, nor scantly the Queen herself. What Gentleman or Gentlewoman would not be ashamed of such ignorance, and wisheth not rather that he had spent twice two hundredth pounds then to show himself to be such a one as I have told you.  Vincent. 
In very deed, (Master Valentine,) it is meet for every Gentleman to know, the person of his Prince: and likewise of the Magistrates, (or at the lest, of the most of them) and surely such knowledge is not gotten without coming to Court, or places where they resort: Notwithstanding if all Gentlemen should follow the Court or dwell in London, how should the country be governed? For without justices of Peace and officers there, the people would be out of order, and the Prince's service must needs be neglected.  Valentine. 
Although I take upon me to remember Gentlemen, of their gross ignorance and lack of civility, yet is not my intent to train them all their whole lives, out of their country, neither would I wish them, (chiefly Officers, & ministers of the Princes in justice) to remain always: either in court or City: But to resort thither at such age & times, as he is either not employed, or not needed, which if he did (I am most assured) his service would prove the more worth, and himself a great deal the more civil: If it pleaseth you to consider that if any important service be committed to the justices of any Shire, you shall see the same (or the chief trust thereof) allotted to men known to the Prince or the Council, and not to others. And if after the said service be performed and any report thereof must be made, if a man do come to do that office (being before known to the Prince or Magistrates, you shall find he shallbe heard with more respect, and dispatched with more speed, then if any other unknown, or unskilful person had been presented unto them.  Vincent. 
No doubt of that, but would you have all Gentlemen thus finely brought up, and that there should no justices of Peace remain in the Country, me thinks that were exceeding strange?  Valentine. 
I did wish indeed, that all Gentlemen were well brought up, and resorters to Court or City, yet I said not that they should ever abandon the country, chiefly those that are employed there.  Vincent. 
Then it seemeth that you would have all the rest to be Courtiers and Towns men, how should any of them then aspire to the offices of the Country, when there they are not abiding.  Valentine. 
My meaning is not to entice them all to Court, or to City from their natural shire: But that such (as would not do themselves that great good) that at the lest they would some times, & chiefly in their youth, abide in their chief town or city of their country, where they may converse with a people more civil, than the poor villains, and be notwithstanding at hand to take office (if it be laid on them:) Also if they be in office already, they devil there fitly enough to exercise the same. But by this you have said, it seemeth you are, or feign would be an Officer in your country.  Vincent. 
Nay not so sir, but yet if it be laid upon me, I must not refuse to serve my Prince.  Valentine. 
I warrant you sir, if you be no better acquainted in Court than you seem, nor no better learned than I, you shall never be troubled with office, unless some friend of yours do recommend you, for so obscure education as you speak, will slowly prefer you.  Vincent. 
I confess our preferment is slow, and yours (be it spoken with patience) is not over swift. For if you mark well it is much better to smell of the law, then of the Lance.  Valentine. 
By my faith sir, you have hit me home, for truly I wish that those savours did yield thrift alike.  
But how happy are you, for whom fortune hath so well provided, as you need neither to taste the pains of the one, nor the peril of the other. But Basta. Let us return to the matter, & tell me how ye are persuaded of my speech touching your quiet.  Vincent. 
Exceedingly well: And must acknowledge that in manuring our own grounds, we offer ourselves much disquiet and care, not becoming a Gentleman. Also in consideration of our strangeness to the Court, we are made the less meet for government, & not to know the person of our Prince is a thing that amazeth a Gentleman much. I yield therefore unto your reasons, and the rather because you will neither bind us continually to Court, nor London: But that we may both visit our own country houses, and ye make chief abode in our shire towns, as places to keep us in that civility, is behoveful.  Valentine. 
You understand me right, and you shall by your dwelling in those Towns, much enrich the people, that they thereby enabled may make their buildings the more beautiful and commodious, so that in one act you work two good effects, which are to make yourselves civil, and enrich the towns.  Vincent. 
But how say you to our pleasures and pleasant exercises of the country? for that was the next I promised to praise. I trust you will allow of them, and commend your own coldly, for I think they be cold enough in deed.  Valentine. 
Well sir, I perceive you have a cold conceit of of our Courtly pleasures, but what of that: tell us yours I pray you.  Vincent. 
We have in troth so great store of them, as there is no time of the year, no hour of the day, nor no weather, but we have a pastime to entertain us with.  Valentine. 
As how? for God's sake, say on.  Vincent. 
In the spring time (and chiefly in Lent) we fish the carp, the Pike, the bream, the Roche, and the ye'll, as good meats in the eating, as good sports in the catching. In summer we dare the Lark with Hobbies, and catch them with day Nets. In harvest when corn is down, our Sparkaukes be ready to kill the Partridge, the Quayle, and rail. In winter we hawk the Heron, the pheasant, the Duck, the Teal: And in brief, all sorts of volary. The like pleasures we can show you upon the ground, (for you must conceive that all these fowls do fly,) and be it your will to hunt with your eye or ear, we are ready for you as if you please to see with the eye, we course the Stag, the Buck, the ●oa, the Doa, the Hare, the Fox, and the Badger: Or if you had rather have some Music to content your care, out goes our dogs, our hounds (I should have said) with them we make a heavenly noise or cry, that would make a dead man revive, and run on foot to hear it.  Valentine. 
But by your leave, if you wished your own good father, whose Heir you are, would rise from death to life, you had rather never hear hound, then trouble his rest.  Vincent. 
Very well sir, you think I would be loath to trace my Father's new steps upon his old land, I speak like a hunter, and to tell you plainly, as I never desired his death: So were it no reason I should put him to pains, of receiving his arrearage of rents, which I have spent these half dozen years past.  Valentine. 
Much good may it do you, and let him rest, (God give him rest:) But tell me if all these pleasures, whereof you told, be they used by day or night, in fair weather, or fowl?  Vincent. 
In good sooth (Master Valentine) either you are wondrously pleasant, and disposed, or else very ignorant in gentlemen's qualities, that will ask me these vain questions: For every man knoweth that the day time is fittest for all sports, and likewise the fair weather.  Valentine. 
Ah sir, I pray you pardon me, for I confess I am unskilful, yet unless I be much deceived, I have hard hounds bark by night, & have seen fowlers catch Woodcocks in cold weather.  Vincent. 
In deed it may be, you have hard sometimes hounds yorne, (for so you aught to term it) by night, and I suppose the winter weather and hard, is fittest for catching of Woodcocks in deed.  Valentine. 
Well, I am glad, you know thereby I have hard, and seen somewhat worthy a Gentleman: I pray you now tell us your pastimes, destined for fowl weather, & how many be of them, besides catching of Woodcocks.  Vincent. 
I assure you many, and those diverse (in which I will include our exercises also: but because you demand of our fowl wether pastimes, I will speak of them first.  Valentine. 
You are full of memory & order, I pray you say on.  Vincent 
In fowl weather, we sand for some honest neighbours, if happily we be with our wives alone at home (as seldom we are) and with them we play at Dice, and Cards, sorting ourselves according to the number of Players, and their skill, some to Ticktacke, some lurch, some to Irish game, or Doublets: Other sit close to the Cards, at Post & Pair, at Ruff, or Colchester Trump, at Mack or Maw: yea, there are some ever so fresh gamesters, as will bare you company at Novem Quinque, at Faring, Trey trip, or one & thirty, for I warrant you, we have right good fellows in the country, sometimes also (for shift of sports, you know is delectable) we fall to slide thrift, to Penny prick, & in winter nights, we use certain Christmas games very proper, & of much agility, we want not also pleasant mad headed knaves, that be properly learned, and will read in diverse pleasant books, and good Authors: As Sir Guy of Warwick, the four Sons of Amon, the Ship of Fools, the Budget of Demands, the hundredth merry Tales, the Book of riddles, and many other excellent writers, both witty and pleasant. These pretty and pithy matters, do some times recreate our minds, chiefly after long sitting, and loss of money. In fair weather when we have strangers, or holy days (for else in the day time we attend our thrift) we exercise ourselves in shooting at Butts, Pricks, rovers and Rownes: We cast the Bar or sledge, Leap or Run, if our ages and condition be fit for such exercise, else (being aged) we chat at home, and talk of Turryn, and Torny, or some other notable war, wherein we served our Prince: Or if we have continually dwelled at home, & been justices of Peace, we account what grave judges & gentlemen we have seen sit on our Bench, & with what eloquence we have (when it was our turn) given the charge.  Valentine. 
Certainly sir, you have told me of many proper pleasures, and honest exercises: But with all let me ask you what Neighbours these companions be, of whom you have told me.  Vincent. 
They are our honest neighbours, Yeomen of the Country, and good honest fellows, dwellers there about: as Graziers, Butchers, Farmers, Drovers, Carpenters, Carriers, Tailors, & such like men, very honest and good companions.  Valentine. 
And so I think, but not for you being a Gentleman: For as their resort unto your house shall give them occasion to learn some point of civility, and courtesy, so your conversing with them will make you taste of their bluntness and rusticity, which will very evil become a man of your calling.  Vincent. 
What would you then have me live alone, and solitary? That were worse then to be dead.  Valentine. 
Nay, neither, for if you did, for the most live in Court or City among the better sort, you should ever find company there, fit for your estate and condition: I mean Noble and Gentlemen, (with whom if you had acquaintance) you would little delight in this rustical conversation, and less rejoice at that mixth, which (now not knowing better) doth (as it seemeth) please you much.  Vincent. 
If these pastimes be not fit for a Gentleman, what would you have us to make ourselves merry with?  Valentine. 
That will I tell you hereafter, when you demand to know the pastimes and exercises of Court. In the mean time, tell on your own tale, being now come to the last commodity of the Country which is profit.  Vincent. 
I thought it had been needles for me to have said any thing thereof, because I think you see the matter in such experience, as it needeth no dispute.  Valentine. 
What mean you by that? when there is nothing (as I told you long since,) perfectly good, nor perfectly evil, only virtue and vice except.  Vincent. 
All this while you fly above my pitch, I pray you speak plainly, do you think the thrift of Noble men and Gentlemen, haunting the Court, or inhabiting the Cities, is comparable to the good husbandry and profit of the Country?  Valentine. 
Yea surely do I, and therefore conclude not in haste.  Vincent. 
How can it so be, when the most part, yea in effect, all Courtiers, and town dwelling Gentlemen be beggars (or at the lest poor in purse) and we of the Country, be either all, or the greater number, very wealth, or rich enough.  Valentine. 
All this may be true, and yet neither the Court or Town is cause of their poverty, nor the Country dwelling, the occasion of your riches.  Vincent. 
Well sir, sith experience will not persuade you, I will set down some reasons to draw you to mine opinion. And first call you to memory the continual & excessive charge which the Courtier, or City dweller is at, I mean in feeding himself, servants, and family: likewise how costly and almost princely he apparrelleth himself, his wife, his children, and servants, and all this charge goeth from the purse, for provision hath he none: neither doth he sow any grain, rear any cattle, nor his wife and women servants spin any cloth, & though they so did, none I suppose of you would wear it, such is your pride. On the other side, all the corn we make our bread of, groweth on our demean ground, the flesh we eat, is all (or the most part) of our own breeding, our garments also, or much thereof, made within our house. Our own Malt and water maketh our drink: So as in conclusion, I say that sith the necessities of man's life consisteth upon these: I mean meat, drink, and cloth. (All which cost us nothing, or very little, and you very much) how can you in reason conceive, that we should be no richer than you, that haunt Courts, and inhabit Cities.  Valentine. 
What you allege, or the most thereof, I think is true, but your conclusion false: For albeit your provisions be great, yet your expenses being greater, your thrift is like to ours, who have small provision, and like charge.  Vincent. 
How can your charge be little, when the cost of keeping one man in Court, or Town, willbe as much, as to keep three in the Country?  Valentine. 
And that I judge is also true, but if my one man in the town, will serve me as well as your three men in the Country serve you, though that one spendeth me as much as your three, I care not: for my thrift is no whit the less, nor yours the more, if of force (as in deed you must) keep so many.  
For where there is (as you allege) great Tillage, rearing up of cattle, Spinninge, and Cardinge, with daily resort, beside of strangers, (as is commonly to Gentlemen in the Country,) there must needs be also many servants, which concourse of people, and business breedeth occasion of continual expense of victual: So as in effect you keep many that do bring you home profit, and they with others, do strait ways eat it up, what are you then the better, but by thus much the worse than we, that you are cumbered with the unlooked for resort of friends and foes, and the daily feeding of many servants.  Vincent. 
Me thinks your speech hath good sense, yet because it is long, I do not perfectly conceive it, as I desire, I pray you tell me your reason briefly.  Valentine. 
Then must you imagine that you have ten loads of Hay in your Stable, and ten horses which of force you must keep. In my Stable I have but one load, and one horse, now will I ask you whither your proportion be larger for your cattle, or mine for me?  Vincent. 
They seem all one, saving that he that hath the greatest provision, hath also the greater trouble.  Valentine. 
Then I am glad you understand: For such is the difference, betwixt the Country and town dweller, the one hath much provision, and many to spend it, the other hath little, and few to consume it. So as I guess, all comes to one reckoning, save that the greatest haver, hath the less quiet.  Vincent. 
But yet by your leave (Master Valentine) you gay beseen Courtiers, albeit you want provision, and have little, yet will you also spend much. And how then?  Valentine. 
Marry than I say, so many of us (as indeed such is the honour of the most) be plain banckeroutes, and beggars, as you call us, but in whom is the fault? not in the Court nor yet in the town. But in our own selves, and our own folly: But such as live in Court or in town orderly, & spend within their proportion, may be equal with you in thrift, and in quietness far before you.  Vincent. 
Yet have you not fully answered me, for sith besides my yearly rents, I have three or four hundredth Acres of demean lands, whereupon my provision groweth, I account my house costeth me nothing, when you that have none, but live on the penny, must needs spend without measure.  Valentine. 
Why sir if you lust, let out your demeans, were it worth no rent?  Vincent. 
Yes that it were, for there is no Acre of it, but would yield me yearly a crown.  Valentine. 
Then may you account, your provision cost you yearly four hundredth crowns.  Vincent. 
By my say, you say troth, for if I did not eat it, I perceive I should have it: But then how should my house be kept, and my neighbours love me?  Valentine. 
A great deal better now for you, & other Gentlemen disposing yourselves, (as full ill it becometh you) to be Ploughmen, you have learned what every soil is worth, and so after that rate, set out your land, whereby the poor Husbandman or Farmer payeth so dear for your coming, and neighbourhood, as he had rather you lived further off like a Gentleman, though for very flattery or fear when he diveth at your Board, he saith, he is sorry your worship should devil away, when God wotteth, the poor man meaneth nothing less: For I have learned that those tenants have best penny worths of their Farms, whose Landlords do lest know the Land, or devil furthest from it. Wherefore you deceive yourself, to think that your continual dwelling in the Country, doth ease the poor Ploughman, so long as you play the Ploughman yourself, or let your land at great rent? For shall you not find a number of poor Husbandmen that almost starve for want of land to manure? whereof I judge nothing a greater cause, than that Gentlemen be become Ploughmen, and are not content to let the poor hire it, and live of the rent, as their calling is, which covetous, and clownish honour they cloak under pretence of hospitality.  Vincent. 
But if I should not occupy my land, how should I know what it were worth? for this I found by experience (calling home into my hands certain copy holds, let out by mine Ancestors) that every Acre was twice so much worth, as the rent I received for it.  Valentine. 
Lo, now in earnest you speak like a worshipful Ploughman, not like a worthy Gentleman, for this experience, whereof you speak, were better unknown then used. Therefore some Doctors do think it better not to know all things, then to know them: meaning (as I judge) that every man should not be to deep a searcher in an other's profession or mystery, lest led on with private profit he hindereth the common commodity.  Vincent 
By this reason (wherein I confess is good sense) the Gentlemen of the Country that occupieth much land with his own Plough, and feedeth many other, letting also his land well and roundly, were aswell spared, as present among his tenants: Notwithstanding he keepeth good hospitality.  Valentine. 
Yea certainly, for they give the poor men their Tenants, a meals meat twice a week worth a groat, and force him to pay a shilling more than he was wont, before his lord become so skilful a husband. Yea by your leave also, if your poor Tenant presents you with a couple of Capons, or a Pig, it is many times welcome, all the meat he eateth at you Table is not so much worth.  Vincent. 
I partly conceive now the substance of all this discourse upon profit, & find in deed that comparing the number which we keep in the country, with those that you do in the City, the cost of householdinge cometh all to one account, and to confess troth, I suppose there is more certainty in the proportion of your charges then in ours. And (as I granted before) not half the trouble. And sith I am led thus far from mine old foolish mind and common love to our country custom, to inhabit there, I will tell you of great and excessive privy charges, which we be at in our houses, (I mean in our household stuff, and chiefly linen, for if a Gentleman have in his house twenty beads, (as many have) and some a greater number, we have them full often occupied with strangers and their servants, who for the most part be so careless, or slovenly, as they will make quick speed to wear out not only our linen, but also our hangings, Curtains, and Canopies of silk: So as within a little time we spoil a great deal of good stuff, and then forced to buy new. For as you see Gentlemen daily resort unto common Inns, so do they daily resort to gentlemen's houses, with man and horse, hawk and dog, till the poor Master of the house hath all his linen foul, all his provision eaten, & his household stuff made unsavoury, & often times torn and spoiled. But all this notwithstanding I acknowledge to be true, yet it grieveth me to dwell from my own house where my neighbours love me, & my tenants do fear me, yet would I feign do, as you advise me were not the fashion, and the custom to the contrary.  Valentine. 
By so saying, you renew an old verse, that being a School boy, I oftentimes read: Video meliora, proboque, deteriora scquor. But I pray you let nothing that is evil, unfit or unprofitable entice you to continued if, because the same hath been an ancient custom, for I dare warrant you, that Vice is as old, as any virtue: and yet I hope you are not so simple, as for the age (against all reason) you will allow it for good.  Vincent. 
In very deed, you discourse so well, as I must needs confess myself driven to the wall, with plain reason, yet while it comes to my mind, let me ask you how your Wives will be brought to leave their Country Gossippes, with whom they have had long love and familiarity. Also to discharge their Dayeries (which is their private profit) will touch their stomachs near, chiefly the thriftier sort, and good housewives? For some that love not housewifery would easily be persuaded to the Town, because they may lie long a bed, and wear gay garments.  Valentine. 
Now have you moved a sober doubt, and well I wots not how to answer thereunto, unless I knew your wives disposition, for I am very loath to offend: Notwithstanding because we do common hear privately, and not as they do in Parliament judicially. I will tell you my opinion touching your wives, I pray you hear what I say, but tell not them, what I said: (or if you do) say not from whom you had it.  Vincent. 
With all my heart, for I learned long ago, (as I remember of old Ovid the lover) parvus tacere labour.  Valentine. 
Then do I tell you flatly, that your wives be no less, but happily more from the order of civility, and the life of Gentlewomen than you are yourselves, and therefore can I lightly believe, they will not be willingly brought to leave their Country gossips, and gamesters, and more hardly to put away their good miltch Cow: But your wisdom must ever rule their covetous folly: For if you consider how uncomely a thing it is to see, (as I have some times seen, and you I am sure often.) A Gentlewoman walking in the pastures, among her Cows, and Calves, all to be dabbled with dew and dirt, and other while wandering in the hot summer a long mile, to find out her hay makers, or corn reapers: So as being come thither, or at the lest before she be returned home to her husband's board, or bed, what with mire in winter, and sweeting in summer, she is become a morsel more meet for a Mowre, or a Mason: then a Gentlemen, or a civil husband. This I know is their use: yea, I have seen some of greater title than a Gentlewoman use this manner of toiling: And if any other Gentlewoman be more fine or delicate (as she aught to be indeed) she is misliked among them, and called a clean fingered girl, as though that were a great ignomy. But now sir, I dare promise that you having yielded to be civil yourself, will no more allow of this life in your wives: But remove such manners from them, either by reason or over ruling, for that sex is not ever reasonably.  Vincent. 
For my part, I wish my wife were not so painful an housewife, and yet is that no evil property, but a thing very profitable. And though good housewives in deed, must neither shun the Summer sweat, nor doubt to march in the Winter mire, yet I warrant you upon the Holiday, or when she lust to go into fine company, she hath good garments, and can wear them well and Courtly.  
So can also our Gentlemen of the Country, for though we walk at home plainly appareled: yet when we come to the Assizes, London, or any other place of assembly, we will put on Courtlike garments, (and though I say it) some of us wear them with good grace.  Valentine. 
I believe you, even like a Constable in Midsummer w●●●h. But this is no great matter.  Vincent 
Well then we do not differ much: Let us therefore come to conclusion, because I long to hear how men be trained, and exercised in Court and City, for (as it seemed by your speech) their manner of lives, do much resemble one tother.  Valentine. 
And so they do in deed, I mean the Gentlemen, and not the Merchants and mechanical people, for their trade (as you can conceive) is turned an other ways: But I pray you say on, for it seemed, you meant to recite in brief the some of all this speech, and how well we have by consent resolved.  Vincent. 
That is my intent, so far as wit and memory will serve me. But first let me entreat you to tell somewhat of Court, and Town dwelling: then shall you hear my mind, and conclusion of all together.  Valentine. 
Verily (Master Vincent,) I must (unless I should wrong you) commend your memory a great deal, and many thanks must I also allow you, for your patience, in hearing my poor reason, and discourse, which (as it seemeth) is not in vain, but hath taken the effect I desired.  Vincent. 
Yea surely sir, and thereof rest you assured. I pray you now let us forgot the Country, and (as you promised,) say somewhat of the Court & City habitation. For I am a stranger to these places, though your hap be to find me here at this present in London.  Valentine. 
You might think me of evil manner, and less courtesy, if I refused to perform your reasonable request, and the rather for the honour you have done me, in yielding to my reasons.  Vincent. 
Then without more ceremony I pray you begin, and feel no offence, though I through ignorance do ask many questions, for man's nature, (you wots well) is desirous to know, chiefly things commendable.  Valentine. 
Even so it is. But touching my talk of the Court, and Town habitation, although I have at length proved, that in those places aught to be the gentlemen's chief abode, yet I think it not necessary to make any new comparison: But only to touch some matters, how men do there live, and in what ages and estates the Courting life doth become: For to take upon me to frame a Courtier, were presumption, I leave that to the Earl Baldazar, whose Book translated by Sir Thomas Hobby, I think you have, or aught to have read. I will not therefore cumber you with the education of a gentleman, for that is already spoken of. For whither the same be in Arms or learning, it is indifferent, for (as I told you) the state hath need of both, and both do alike beseem him understand you, then that all Gentlemen in habiting the Cities, & there from their Cradle brought up, can not be so hard to be entered into a civil life, as they were, being brought up in the Country till they be sixteen or fifteen years old, before which time they are so deeply rooted in rusticity, as they prove like unto the haggard hawks, which many times are so wild and indisciplinable, as will either never or with great labour be reclaimed. The like I say of their lives, through rustical company in childhood, do get themselves as it were an habit in loughty looks, clownish speech, and other ungentle manly gestures, as it is a good while (yea many times never) that those rusticities be left. But I will no more speak of children: only this I say that young Gentlemen, (whose Parents inhabit the City, and are desirous to have their Sons well and virtuously brought up) besides that, they shallbe free from these Country conditions, they may, or then come to this age, be perfectly learned in the Greek and Latin tongues, and other while in other volgare languages: also he may have some good intrance in the sciences Mathematical knowledges, very fit for a Martial man, and not unfit for the Civil Officer: Whereof I infer that at this age, or shortly after he is to be judged, whereunto he is by nature and desire most inclined.  Vincent. 
We will then for this time imagine (and for my part so wish) that all Noble and Gentlemen, did devil in Cities, and Towns, and that thereby their children should not be infected with the country conditions, but were as apt for Court, and Civility, as you would have them: what would you then they should do, being come to eighteen or twenty years? as you seem to desire, being well entered and learned in those studies, that become a Gentleman.  Valentine. 
I would then (finding the inclination of my son to learning) continued and encourage him therein, and make him (I hope) a man fit for his country, or at the lest for himself.  Vincent. 
As how? I pray you proceed: For being now myself persuaded to devil in the City, & have many young children, I would direct them the best I could.  Valentine. 
I wish that your son, having passed the schools, and spent some time in the university, finding him disposed to learn the common laws, you should in any wise continued him, and (as I said before) hold him thereto as a study both necessary for the state, and profitable for himself. Or if he rather affecteth the laws Civil, or the science Mathematical, I would advise you (if such be your ability) to sand him to study in the Universities of foreign Countries, where he may make double profit, I mean, learn the knowledge he seeketh, and also the language of the place.  Vincent. 
But I pray you, give me leave to demand to what use the knowledge of the laws civil do serve, for it is the law of the Realm, only (as I think) that bringeth in both honour, and profit.  Valentine. 
I deny not, but after our long peace and quiet, (which God continued) the common laws of this Realm, hath both advanced, and enriched many, for (such is the nature of men) as they never cease one to mo●e●● the other, not being by some foreign molestation offended, they convert their ambition, and covetous one against the other.  
Whereupon they call one the other to trial of law, in those contentions (which are many) the men of law, are hired and employed, to their exceeding profit and gain. But touching the civil laws, I say that is a most noble knowledge, being the law almost universal to all Christendom, & therefore such as attain to the knowledge thereof, shall not only in this land, & many other, able themselves to get their own liveload: But also be men most fit to counsel Princes, and all estates of governments both in causes Civil and Martial: For by them all differentes be dissided: The learned Civilian therefore (besides his own particular) is a man very fit, & imployable in all counsels of estate and Ambassages, as he that is skilful of the government universal. And if (as before I said) his learning begotten in foreign Countries, he shall also be helped with language and some experience.  Vincent. 
Surely sir, this is more than I ever hard, for I supposed the only profit and reputation of this learning had been in the Arches and Spiritual Courts, as we call them. But now I find that civilians, can serve better purposes, and in every christian country, make shift to earn their own livings. I pray you what shall we dispose of those young men, that love a Lawnce or a Sword better than either a Book, or a long gown?  Valentine. 
I think, I told you talking of the Country, that in my poor opinion there was no Gentleman (unless he were witless,) but might be made fit for somewhat. Such therefore, as were persons disposed of Body, after the age beforesaid, and not affected to the study of these laws, I would notwithstanding hold them in love of the Mathematical Sciences, and prefer them into the service of Noble men, and Captains, either at home, or else in foreign Countries, who haunting the wars, shall instruct these young fellows, in all orders and Martial discipline, wherein helped with the knowledge of the said Science.  
They shall in short space, become not only good and obedient Soldiers: But also skilful commanders, and perfit Captains. Others also may with daily practice prove excellent in the Art of riding, and others in Sailing or Navigation: So as the Martial exercises be diverse, all fit for a Gentleman, & most expedient for the Prince's service.  Vincent. 
But these qualities be (as I think) slow occupations to thrive by: notwithstanding they are full painful and perilous, many men, yea (every man at one time or other) have need of a Lawyer: But a Captain, a man of Arms, or a Soldier (chiefly in time of peace) no man needeth. If therefore a young Gentleman, being of eighteen or twenty years old, should during five, six, or seven years next after, wholly endeavour himself in these disciplines and Martial exercises, and doth become in them expert, or happily excellent, returned home into England, where all is peace, what use were there of his virtue, or who would maintain him?  Valentine. 
I must say those sorts of men serviceable, be not so well provided for as the deserve, & I desire, Notwithstanding, sith the number of Gentlemen, who apply themselves that ways be not many: I judge being men in deed of virtue and value, our Prince, (for that she is both liberal, and valorous,) would willingly afford them maintenance, besides that, there are diverse Noble men and great Councillors, some very soldiers them selves, and some lovers, as well of arms as learning that would likewise put their hands to help so virtuous and industrious a youth.  Vincent. 
And so do I suppose also, and do hear it daily wished, that all sorts of men imployable in the state were provided for: Notwithstanding, sith the use of these is but seldom, I see no ordinance, or special provision for them. And in deed, a man not needed, seemeth superfluous, and may be forgotten.  Valentine. 
You have reasoned wisely, but not well, for if your Horse should no longer be allowed Provender, then during the time you ride him, I warrant you your journey could not be long. Or if your servant should have wages, but for hours wherein he laboureth, than should you pay him but for half the year, for every night (as reason is) he resteth  Vincent. 
You are (Master Valentine,) very nimbly witted, and therefore will I not reply, but in that which reason doth maintain. And touching our matter, Let us presuppose that some young Gentleman hath in the prime of his youth disposed himself industriously in study, wars, and travel, where he caught that knowledge or experience, that doth recommend him to the Prince's service: what is the order of the life there, and wherein shall he exercise himself at the first coming, or after some years of abode there, and at what age may he without offence, and in reason, retire himself.  Valentine. 
You are very discrete and orderly in all your demands, I would wish you to ask of more skilful Courtiers, for though I have seen the Courts of sundry foreign Princes, and served long our own Sovereign, yet dare I not account myself so perfit, as to inform you in every of these.  Vincent. 
I have said, and so I must once more say, that you are over full of respects, which humour you found beyond the Mountains: I pray you lay by this curiosity, and do (as you partly promised,) tell of the order of a Courtly life, and what exercises becometh a Courtier in every age, and begin at five and twenty years, or there about, for before that time, a young Gentleman may have both studied in Schools, seen the war, and traveled Countries: Which three things, or at the lest one of them, in any wise I wish a Gentleman should do, to make him worthy of a Prince's service,  Valentine. 
Such a man, being retained to the Prince, his best mean to advancement (as I think) is to excel, (if possible he may) in that he professeth, adding thereunto diligence, and fidelity in service. And if he professeth (specially) arms, I would he adventured himself, in every honourable war, till such time as he hath gained the true knowledge and reputation of a Soldier. And touching the exercises of such a one, during his abode in Court, it shall well become his age and profession, to handle all sorts of arms, both on horseback and foot, leap, dance, run, ride, (and if he so like) play at all sorts of games, so that he accompanieth either his betters or equals, and that with such discretion, as his loss be not at any time so great as to occasion his ruin: It will also stand well with his condition to entertain Ladies, and serve specially some one, whose virtue and private courtesy, doth at his hand best deserve. One other thing also I wish he used, I mean that at the lest, one hour of every day he should read, either in some notable History, or excellent discourse: For that will much exercise the mind, & increase the knowledge.  Vincent. 
It is true, that as the strength of body unused, will quickly decay, so will also the wit and memory. But I pray you tell me when these lusty exercises will become a Gentleman, I mean, whither they be seemly all his life, or but only for some certain years?  Valentine. 
In this question I am sure you answer yourself, that they are seldom seemly, in a man of ripe age, and in old years very ridiculous. For if you should see an old Gentleman, with a white or grisly beard, take upon him to dance, or tourney for his Mistress favour, I suppose you would not look on him without laughter, nor she without disdain: yea, (such is the force of comeliness) as even in those that make profession of dancing, unless their years be fit for the use thereof, they do rather instruct others, then use it themselves. But arms becometh a Gentleman in all ages: But yet diversly, for old men must only in earnest use it. But young men both in earnest & sport, are bound to that exercise.  Vincent. 
Yet have you not told me how long this life willbe seemly.  Valentine. 
I pray you press me no more with these demands, for I referred you to a book that can better inform you. Yet sith you seek my opinion, I say (as in a sort I have already said) that these exercises of body, do only become youth: And therefore that age (which I suppose by the Philosopher's rule) endeth at thirty and five years doth only grace a Gentleman in them. After that time, being of capassitie, and experience, he is rather to be employed in serious services, then left at leisure, to entertain Ladies, or dance a Galliard.  Vincent. 
But if it happeneth he be not used in any action meet for his age and skill: But either through want of occasion, friends or fortune, let stand still in his first estate, without either advancement, or employment, being no longer fit for love and dalliance: How should he grace himself in Court?  Valentine. 
Truly (as I take it) being come to the decline of his age, and drawing near to forty years, he may without offence retire himself, and resign his ordinary attendance, resorting some times to see his Sovereign, as a chief comfort. For if you consider well, that place which requireth the person of a young man, will misbecome the same body being in years: also, while youth and lust lasted, there was hope of good: which now decayed the man becometh not only unfit for the place he used: But also (not preferred) looseth the reputation, wherein his virtue and expectation did hold him.  Vincent. 
You speak like a man of experience and judgement, as one that knoweth what is beseeming in every age, and estate. Notwithstanding I see some unadvanced, & also unemployed Courtiers, that devil in their young places of service, even to their last years.  Valentine. 
Even so in troth it is, and the occasions thereof diverse. Some there are of those men, very imployable, yet therewith deeply infected with ambition, and therefore will never leave the Court, clearly forgetting, that Fortune is a woman, which sex seldom preferreth folk of declining age.  
Others having happily committed some error, and thereby incurred the prince's offence, being penitent, and desirous to recover favour and reputation, do notwithstanding they know themselves over aged for their profession, still attend a plausible departure: which is not quickly obtained, for (you wots well) Ira, and Irabundia, be speedier passions, then are Benevolentia and Gratia.  Vincent. 
The third fort, are the Children of Phao, who for want of wit, will imagine they be ever young, never knowing what becomes them, but still stay in Court without countenance, not to aspire to any thing, but to eat and drink among Lords. For them was the Florentyne Proverb devised, which saith: Chi S'inuecchia in Corte in paglias more.  Vincent. 
Sir, you needed not so far to have fetched a Proverb, to apply to this purpose, for we have one of our own: But I thank you for yours, you teach me betwixt times, some beyond sea.  Valentine. 
Then (Master Vincent,) sith you encounter me with mocks, I will speak no more of Court, but as I have often told, wish you to peruse the book of the Courtier.  Vincent. 
Yet one word more of the Court, and then speak whereof you please. You seemed, to say that Learning & Arms, were the true professions of a gentleman, would you then that when he cometh to age he should abandon one of them? I mean Arms: or be so discourteous, as no longer to love Ladies.  Valentine. 
I mean nothing less: But that during life, a Gentleman should profess Arms, and at occasions, use them (as I told you before) in age earnestly, in youth, both in earnest & sport. Also I would have all Gentlemen, even to their dying days, to honour Ladies, although to serve them daily in Court and dalliance, I hold old men far unmeet.  Vincent 
I am satisfied, and because you have so oft addressed me to the Earl Baldazar, I will speak no more of Court, but come home to the City, which is or aught to be our habitation: Doth it please you to command me any service there?  Valentine. 
No service good sir, but desire you will command me, wherein I am able.  Vincent. 
I know your ability to be much more than I will employ: But sith you so freely offer yourself, I pray you (but not command you) to tell what is your order of life in the City; and which be your exercises, both of body and mind.  Valentine. 
The manner of the most Gentlemen, and Noble men also, is to house themselves (if possible they may) in the suburbs of the City, because most commonly the air there being som●●h●● at large, the place is healthy, and through the distance from the body of the Town, the noise not much: and so consequently quiet. Also for commodity we find many lodgings, both spacious and roomethy, with Gardaines, and Orchards very delectable. So as with good government, we have as little cause to fear infection there, as in the very Country: our water is excellent, and much better than you have any, our ground and fields most pleasant, our fire equal with yours. This much touching the site of our Town dwelling and the Elements.  Vincent. 
Then my desire is to know, how you be furnished of all sorts of provision: as flesh and fish, beer and bread, wood and coal, hay and oats, with every other thing needful, either for your ordinary expenses, or for feasting your friends at occasions.  Valentine. 
All these things we have with less labour than you of the Country, where the same doth grow: For either it is brought to our very Gates, and offered us, or else in the Market, hard at hand, we may buy it.  Vincent. 
But so dearly, as every penny worth of provision in the Country, is worth three of yours.  Valentine. 
That may hap so to be, and yet (as I told you 〈…〉 afford a penny for three Eggs in the City, then for nine in the Country.  Vincent. 
And how can that be, is not nine more than three, and will go further?  Valentine. 
Yes truly, but sith a penny in Eggs will serve the turn, for my few I keep in the City: And your penny though it bringeth you more plenty, yet seeing you have so much people, as will devour it, cometh not the matter to one reckoning? save that the advantage is ours, that in rostinge our three Eggs is not so great troubles as yours, in roasting of nine.  Vincent. 
Certainly (Master Valentine,) you are an excellent Arithmetrition among eggs: But I pray you tell me how shall our children be brought up, and where shall we have Scoolemaisters to teach them?  Valentine. 
A great number of better than any Sir john of the Country, who most commonly teacheth your children, that himself knoweth not, and yet either because you are loath your Babes should be set far from your sleeves, or that there you may have them taught best cheap, you will in no wise seek out a skilful Tutor in deed. But when you shall inhabit the City, you have there choice of excellent Masters, not only for the Grammar, and such boy studies, but also in all sorts of learning.  Vincent. 
That is a very good thing, and an excellent commodity. Now I desire you to 〈…〉 me, what repair will be to our houses, and how we are to entertain them, for I am ignorant in all, because I never dwelled in the City.  Valentine. 
Of my former speech, comparing the Country custom with ours, you might have gathered, that unoccasioned, or not contrived, no man will resort unto your Town house, except he be your brother, your son, or some dear friend, whom you account as yourself, else none without occasion, which happening, they that seek you are so respective, as neither at the hour of dinner or supper, they will look you, if their business doth not very much urge them. And if happily you do invite any, of what condition soever he be, his servants do not charge you, not nor trouble you, for they retire, till such time as their Master have dined, of what degree or title so ever is said Lord or Master be. So as the greatest Lord shall no more pester your Hall, or disorder your provision, then the lest gentleman, or meanest friend, (except it) be that for one meal, you will to honour the great guest make your fare the better.  Vincent. 
That is a great saving to my purse, and sparing me from trouble: In Country the custom is contrary, the charge of our halls is more than our own Table, and the trouble to serve the servants exceeding. But when we have no company but by these haps, we shallbe (I suppose) very solitary.  Valentine. 
Even ●o much as pleaseth yourself, for when you lust to tarry alone, no man will press you: if you willbe accompanied, a small convitation will train friends unto you, and these men of more civility, wisdom, and worth, than your rude Country Gentlemen, or rustical Neighbours. If you delight in grave men & sober, you shall easily acquaint yourself with such. If you pleasure in mirth and pleasant companions, they are at hand. If you like of learned men, there are they found. If you will hawk or hunt, there are Faukners & hunters enough. If you will ride, there are horsemen. And to be short, you shall never lack company fit for your honour, age, and desire.  Vincent. 
I am very glad of those news, for we Country Gentlemen love not to eat, nor devil alone: But yet me think I shall hazard my health: notwithstanding, if my body be diseased (as it may be, wheresoever I devil) we may have (I suppose) plenty of Physicians to cure us. The want of which men is cause that in the Country, many do I think daily perish, whose lives might by their skill be preserved.  Valentine. 
Yea certainly sir, many in deed for want of good medicines do no doubt miscarry: And even in mine own experience I have known a Gentleman or two, that were driven to die, for want of a poor Surgeon, or a Barber to let them blood.  Vincent. 
The more is the pity. Now having hard what site I shall have for my town habitation, and likewise how I may be accompanied. I desire to know with what matters I shall entertain my mind, and exercise my body.  Valentine. 
I have told you often, and ever will tell you, that the chief and principal studies, and delight of a Gentleman, must be learning and Arms: And therefore such as have civilly brought up, do seldom muse on other matters. For though they refuse not for company & conversation to hawk & hunt, fish and fowl, Bowl or quoit, or any other honest pastime, yet is our most continual exercise either study or riding of great and serviceable horses, with the one we entertain our minds, with the other we exercise our bodies, & that with great delight Are not these occupations to much more purpose then either hawking or hunting, or any other pastime which you Country Gentlemen do use?  Vincent. 
In respect of the common wealth, I suppose they are to better purpose, and yet are they costly: For the buying of many books, and hieringe of learned men to instruct you, is a thing (as I take it) very chargeable. Likewise to maintain two or three serviceable horses, with good feeding and keeping, will prove exceeding costly.  Valentine. 
You say truly, and yet lay by your hawks, and your dogs with their keepers, and such charges as are incident to those pastimes, then shall you find that the practice of learning and arms, is not more costly than these, and to dicing and carding not comparable. You shall also consider, that 〈…〉 Noble of Gentlemen that be not bound to attendance to follow Court, but at their own wills, may make provision in the City, and keep their horses there, it is a matter of supportable expense. And many Gentlemen there are, that spend yearly so much hay and corn, upon hunting and hawking jades, as would maintain half a dozen able horses to serve their Prince.  Vincent. 
But would you have every Gentleman to keep serviceable horses, even those that live to themselves, and receive no pay of the Prince, either in war or Court?  Valentine. 
Yea surely sir, every Gentleman of ability aught to do it, for unless he be at all times well armed and horsed, I hold him unworthy the name of a Gentleman, yea, though he weareth the long Robe.  Vincent. 
Then will you put our Gentlemen to double charges, I mean to keep their haukinge nags, and their horses of service also.  Valentine. 
I will not wish them to that. For I desire only to see them furnished like Gentlemen, not like Falconers: if there were fewer hawks, and more horses, I suppose it were better for the state, and more worship for the Gentlemen. Also (if you mark it well) it is (besides the necessity,) a better and more commendable sight, to see a Gentleman ride with three fair horses, than fifteen of those uncomely Curtalles.  Vincent. 
In that I must also concur with you in opinion.  Valentine. 
Yea, I am sure you will, and so will every other man in whom there is either judgement or courage. And if you were in some Countries, where gentlemen do in deed live a civil life: You should daily see them so well mounted, as would greatly delight you. And so great is there the desire of knowledge in Chivalry, and the use of arms, as in sundry Cities they have by consent, erected a pay and pension, for men expert to teach them these knowledges: So as what with their instructions, and their own exercise, many become cunning, and some very excellent. The like provisions they have devised, for the knowledge of Philosophy, and the Mathematical Sciences, entertaining men excellent in them, to read publicly, who for their pains do receive good reward, even by the only bounty and benevolence of Noble and Gentlemen, studious of honour and virtue.  Vincent. 
How cometh this courage and noble desire of knowledge into those people, more than unto us?  Valentine. 
I dare not take upon me to judge, but (as I guess) the want of knowledge what honour is, must be the principal occasion of our want of desire to excel both in learning and Arms: Yea, in my poor mind, because we dwell in remote place, one gentleman far from other, so as the better cannot inform the worse: there is no mean made to instruct the ignorant, but every one disposeth himself almost as a poor Ploughman, making profit and riches the marks of all his endeavour.  Vincent. 
Then it seemeth, that the City, the Court, and other places of assembly, (I mean of Nobility) doth occasion men to learn the customs of courtesy, and points of honour?  Valentine. 
No doubt thereof, for even experience doth prove, that so it is, for if you happen into the company of two Gentlemen, (though in wit and capacity alike) the one brought up in the Country, the other in Court or City, you shall even at the first sight perceive by their speech, gesture, and behaviour, that their educations are diverse.  Vincent. 
And that may so be, yet the behaviour of both good and gentlemanly enough. For you shall find few Gentlemen of the Country, but they are somewhat learned, and many of them brought up in service, so long as they can thereby know what reverence or countenance to use towards all sorts of men.  Valentine. 
That is but your opinion, for I will compare their good manners, or rather their evil manners unto the skill of an unskilful Tailor or shoemaker: who dwelling among the country people, doth exercise his occupation: and not being there any better workman, is holden an excellent artisan: when in deed he is a plain bungler, and a very ignorant dolt. Even so to those that never saw any civil men: they that wear any good garments, are without other consideration, accounted brave Gentlemen, and folk of good nurture.  Vincent. 
Then I perceive that every man that can make a coat is not a Tailor, nor every one that hath the name of a Gentleman, and goeth well appareled, aught be so reputed: unless the one be skilful in his craft, and the other seemly in his garments.  Valentine. 
You take my meaning aright, and yet you must not think that these external things, (I mean apparel and gesture) be the chiefest ornaments for a Gentleman. For the inward virtues and perfections be in troth of most weight, and chiefly required.  Vincent. 
So have I hard you already say, but few can attain to perfection, and not many draw near unto it. Yet I think you shall find in the Country the most part of those that bear the name of Gentlemen, that they are of capacity sufficient & able to talk of their shire wherein they dwell, as of the fertilytie or bareness thereof: of hanking or hunting, fishing or fowling, and finally of all such matter as concern either pleasure or profit, wherefore I find no want in their wits to be supplied, unless they happily lack the Art of Adulation, or the skill of ceremonious speech, which you travelers have brought from beyond the Seas.  Valentine. 
Sir you may be bold to tell me of all faults: For I can willingly confess, that from far, many have fetched full evil conditions. But therewith I pray you consider, that who so buyeth corn, must needs put some chaff into his sacks: And so were ye better do then bring home no corn at all. Even so he that seeketh to know the best, must of force, happen upon some evil: both which a wise man knoweth how to use, the one to be stored, the other to be cast away and detested.  Vincent. 
Yet have you not told me your opinion, touching our Country wits and experience, neither have you said aught, how you allow of those things wherein we are able to speak.  Valentine. 
I say they are not evil, neither is it ungentleman-like to have skill in matters of profit or pleasure. And yet if your capacities comprehend no greater matter, you may prove fat Franklins, or faukners for a prince, or perhaps hunts for my Lord Mayor: but never become worthy the name of Gentlemen nor the estimation that thereto belongeth.  Vincent. 
In deed sir, I remember you told me that arms and learning were the only occupations of a Gentleman, and these are not in troth any of them. Notwithstanding you must understand that the most of us have gone to school, and many have seen some part of the wars.  Valentine. 
Every boy that hath been beaten for not learning his lesson, is not to be accounted learned, but he that in deed hath learning, nor he that a few days hath marched in armour aught be taken for a soldier: no more than those that for one nights sleep in Parnassus' Hill, should be reputed perfit Poets.  Vincent. 
Truly it seemeth a thing reasonable, that so noble knowledges are not gotten without long labour and perseverance. But I pray you tell me what imperfection you find in the conversation of our Country Gentlemen: whom (to tell you truly) I wish either more lettered, or better learned in the Martial discipline.  Valentine. 
Sigh you so require me, I will use that (which you say is no property of a courtier) plainness. And therefore I tell you, that besides those qualities you alleged, I find nothing else in the Country gentlemen: & the same not accompanied with some taste of learning or arms, I account as nothing worth. Touching their conversation, you shall beside the rusticity of their houses and garments, find them full of lofty looks, barbarous behaviour, and undecent doings. As for ensample, some one will laugh when he speaketh, an other will cough before he tells his tale: And some will gape or yawn when he giveth the hearing. So as in deed (unless they be of better education, few do know what countenance to make among the equals, and among their betters utterly to seek. Also if they hap to dine at any table, either they are sullenly silent, or else they fall into speech of their own Ancestors, their own lands, their own wives or children, other subject of talk ye shall seldom find among these sorts of country men.  Vincent. 
In good faith sir, when I remember all mine acquaintance, I confess that some of them (chiefly in company) are to seek which way to look: & much more how to entertain. And this I speak not only of us that devil in the country, but by your leave of many Courtiers.  Valentine. 
I am not so simple, (though simplest of many) but that I find in Court diverse as unworthy the name of Courtiers, as of you that deserve not the reputation of Gentlemen. But yet necessity and occasion do draw us to be of better manner, & chiefly in our doings to use more respect. And would you practise mine opinion, to live sometimes in country, & sometimes in city, ye could not choose but know the thrift of the one, whereof ye boast, and also the civility of the other.  Vincent. 
All men are not apt for one thing, & men's delights be diverse: for as some affect the schools & learning, so others take pleasure in husbandry and tillage.  
Some have mind to the wars, & love to wander in foreign Countries: others are willing to follow princes' affairs, & some are best content to tarry at home & live to themselves. How then should all men be expert in learning & arms.  Valentine. 
I am glad you come so near me, for now will I put ye in mind, that long since I told you, which is, that every gentleman unless he were witless will prove fit for some action, either martial or Civil, if he doth not, the fault in his own, that doth not offer himself to industry, or his foolish friends that would not comfort him to it. And so in conclusion, I impute the fault to Nature, but rather to Nurture.  Vincent. 
I had thought that nature had made every man so affected as that he had been only meet, for that his friends put him unto, or that his Ancestors before him used and delighted.  Valentine. 
Touching that, I will tell you how Lycurgus the Law maker of Lacedaemon handled the matter, to reach the people there, what education besides nature could do in men. He caused two dogs of one litter to be brought up, the one he committed to a man that delighted in hunting, and so used that whelp: the other was fostered by a poor villain, willing in no wise that dog to do other than eat and feed fat. These two whelps being grown to ripe age, Lycurgus commanded they should be brought forth in the presence of many people, and with them a Hare & a potful of porridge, which being showed to the dogs, and they both let lose, the one ran after the Hare, the other made haste to the porish pot. Whereby the Lacedæmonians perceived, that education & not nature, made in all creatures the difference of delights, though some men are more and some less to goodness inclined, yet every man apt for some what, though many have made themselves fit for nothing.  Vincent. 
To say troth, I know many good wits, that first for not being by friends admitted to learn, and after through an habit of sloth, do become both unlearned and very lowtes. Others both witty and courageous, yet used to home, and not hearing how virtuously some their equals have been, are in time rather beastly then brave, rather effeminate then courageous.  Valentine. 
●●ll now you see the mind doth much, and the endeavour thereof, maketh men worthy or unworthy the name of Gentlemen, of defaults many accuse nature, whereof themselves are most guilty.  Vincent. 
Concerning then (of that you have spoken) how the end of the Courtier is honour, & his exercises, Arms and learning. And that the country gentlemen aspireth to riches, exercised chiefly in grazing and Tillage. It must needs be, that their manners and customs are also diverse. But as they be in birth both equal, so aught they to have like delights & customs, wherefore to unite them it behoveth that the one sort do confirm themselves to the other.  Valentine. 
Then it is meet, that the worse do yield to the better, & the unexpert, to those of best knowledge.  Vincent. 
So were it both wisdom and reason.  Valentine. 
And which of those men (as you think) liveth most virtuously, and are fittest for the state?  Vincent. 
Surely sir, since I considered, that we must not live only for ourselves, and our particular profit, I am fully persuaded, that a gentleman unskilful in Arms and utterly unlearned, is seldom found fit for any public function, or employment. And no man denieth but that man, who is able to govern, is a person more worthy and necessary than he that is governed. For Aristotle a Father in Philosophy saith: Regens est dimus recto.  Valentine. 
I am very glad to hear you so say, for that was all I laboured you to believe: yet before we put full end to our speech, let me entreat you to tell that a good while since, yourself offered, which is to recite in brief, the sum of all our speech, whereby ye shall show the excellency of your own memory and also make these Gentlemen our hearers the better to carry away what hath been said.  Vincent. 
Understand you then, that through your good reasons (for which I heartily thank you) I am brought to know that the education of a Gentleman aught be only in Learning and Arms, and that no Gentleman, not nor no Noble man should withdraw or hold back his Son from the attaining of these knowledges, which are the very true and only qualities or virtues of a gentleman as things not only beseeming such a person, but also for the service of a Prince or State very necessary.  
Secondly, you have persuaded that in Court or Town, the life of a Gentleman may be no less godly and charitable, then in the Country: In which discourse you set down what sorts of servants were superfluous, and which necessary, both for private use, and the public state▪ Wherein I also noted, that such young men as were not borne to land or living, should either apply themselves to perfection in learning or Merchandise, either else to husbandry, or some mechanical mystery or occupation: And not to be servingmen, without other knowledge, lest through their masters want of will to keep them, or their lack of skill to earn their own liveloades, they may be driven to unlawful life or beggary.  
Thirdly, in consideration of your reasons I gather, that true honour consisteth not in the admiration of common people, but in the virtue of him that therewith is endued. And that the reputation which a few wise men do give unto a Gentleman, is of more worth than that of the multitude, whereupon is inferred, that the respect which is borne to any man by them of the Court and City, (being the best and wisest sort) is more estimable than that which is borne by the common people.  
Fourthly, you seem to allow more of many our Country sports & exercises, then of our company in using them.  
Fifthly, that for health and wholesome habitation the Cities, and some chief towns in England, are either better or not inferior to the sites of the Noble and gentlemen's houses.  
Sixtly, I see that the Town dwelling doth much surpass for quietness, & that the most part of gentlemen's country houses be frequented as honourable hostries.  
And last, that the Court or City habitation not abused, is no less profitable than that of the country, & more free from trouble. Thus much of the country.  
Touching the Court and City, you told that a Gentleman aught in the prime of his youth, endeavour himself to become sufficient for the service of his Prince. Which sufficiency is attained unto through study, travail, and Martial endeavour. informing briefly, at what age he aught come to Court, what his exercises should be there, and in what time and fortune it shall become him to retire himself from thence: For (as it seemeth,) an old Courtier unpreferred and unemployed, looseth his reputation, and may be compared to a Non profitiens in School. Concerning the rest, you refer me to the Book of the Courtier.  
Of the City, you have said somewhat particularly of the manner and site of gentlemen's houses there and likewise, how they may with commodity and reasonable cost be furnished of all sort of victuals and other needful provision. Also that there be more skilful Tutors to instruct your children, than we possible can have in the Country.  
You do also discourse well of the manner of householdinge and the resort of friends in the town, which seemeth not to be cumbersome.  
Lastly, it appeareth your exercises be chiefly in Letters and Arms, which be both commendable and very necessary.  
Thus much (as I think) is the some or principal parts of your speech, which I confess to be very reasonable and good, and therefore consent that a Gentleman so brought up, is more civil than any Country man can be: Likewise meetest for government, and for his private virtue most to be regarded.  Valentine. 
Surely sir, you have framed a proper Epilogue of our speech. And sith I see that you both conceive aright what hath been persuaded, and are also brought to believe what is true, I will press you no further, but bidding you most heartily welcome to our town habitation, as a place fittest for a Gentleman.  I take my leave. 
FINIS.