Here am I disguised ; and , to the proof , do I not cut a figure of fun -- a right fool 's figure ? '' `` Ay , Dick , an ' that ye do ! '' she answered , smiling . `` Well , then ! '' he returned , triumphant . `` So was it with you , poor Matcham , in the forest . In sooth , ye were a wench to laugh at . But now ! '' So they ran on , holding each other by both hands , exchanging smiles and lovely looks , and melting minutes into seconds ; and so they might have continued all night long . But presently there was a noise behind them ; and they were aware of the short young lady , with her finger on her lips . `` Saints ! '' she cried , `` but what a noise ye keep ! Can ye not speak in compass ? And now , Joanna , my fair maid of the woods , what will ye give your gossip for bringing you your sweetheart ? '' Joanna ran to her , by way of answer , and embraced her fierily . `` And you , sir , '' added the young lady , `` what do ye give me ? '' `` Madam , '' said Dick , `` I would fain offer to pay you in the same money . '' `` Come , then , '' said the lady , `` it is permitted you . '' But Dick , blushing like a peony , only kissed her hand . `` What ails ye at my face , fair sir ? ''
she inquired , curtseying to the very ground ; and then , when XXXXX had at length and most tepidly embraced her , `` Joanna , '' she added , `` your sweetheart is very backward under your eyes ; but I warrant you , when first we met he was more ready .
Ay Dick Joanna Matcham ails night right seconds sooth wench