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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Third And Last Part Of Conny-Catching.
+(1592), by R. G.
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Third And Last Part Of Conny-Catching. (1592)
+       With the new deuised knauish arte of Foole-taking
+
+Author: R. G.
+
+Release Date: December 25, 2004 [EBook #14462]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK CONNY-CATCHING ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Alexx Kay, Greg Lindahl and the PG Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team
+
+
+
+
+
+
+THE
+Third and last part of Conny-catching.
+
+With the new deuised knauish arte of
+Foole-taking.
+
+_The like coosnages and villanies never before discouered._
+
+By R.G.
+
+[Illustration]
+
+Printed by _T.Scarlet_ for _C.Burby_, and are to be solde at
+his shop vnder S.Mildreds Church in the Poultrie. 1592.
+
+TO ALL SVCH AS HAVE
+receiued either pleasure or profite by the two
+former published bookes of this
+Argument:
+And to all beside, that desire to know the wonderfull
+slie deuises of this hellish crew
+of Conny-catchers.
+
+[Illustration: I]
+
+In the time of king Henrie the fourth, as our English Chronicles haue
+kept in remembrance, liued diuerse sturdie and loose companions in
+sundrie places about the Citie of London, who gaue themselues to no
+good course of life, but because the time was somewhat troublesome,
+watched diligently, when by the least occasion of mutinie offered,
+they might praie vppon the goods of honest Citizens, and so by their
+spoyle inrich themselues. At that time liued likewise a worthie
+Gentleman, whose many verie famius deeds (wherof I am sorie I may here
+make no rehearsal, because neither time nor occasion will permitte me)
+renowne his name to all ensuing posterities: he, being called sir
+_Richard Whittington_, the founder of Whittington Colledge in
+London, and one that bare the office of Lord Maior of this Citie three
+seuerall times. This worthie man wel noting the dangerous disposition
+of that idle kinde of people, tooke such good and discreete order
+(after hee had sent diuers of them to serue in the kings warres, and
+they loath to doe so well returned to their former vomite) that in no
+place of or about London they might haue lodging, or entertainment,
+except they applied themselues to such honest trades and exercises, as
+might witnesse their maintaining was by true and honest meanes. If any
+to the contrarie were founde, they were in iustice so sharply
+proceeded against, as the most hurtfull and dangerous enemies to the
+commonwealth.
+
+In this quiet and most blissefull time of peace, when all men (in
+course of life) should shew themselves most thankfull for so great a
+benefit, this famous citie is pestered with the like, or rather worse
+kinde of people, that beare outward shew of ciuill, honest, and
+gentlemanlike disposition, but in very deed their behauiour is most
+infamous to be spoken of. And as now by their close villanies they
+cheate, cosen, prig, lift, nippe, and such like tricks now vsed in
+their _Conie-catching_ Trade, to the hurt and vndoing of many an
+honest Citizen, and other: So if God should in iustice be angrie with
+vs, as our wickednesse hath well deserued, and (as the Lorde forsend)
+our peace should be molested as in former time, euen as they did, so
+will these be the first in seeking domesticall spoile and ruine: yea
+so they may haue it, it skilles not how they come by it. God raise
+such another as was worthie _Whittington_, that in time may
+bridle the headstrong course of this hellish crew, and force them liue
+as becommeth honest subiects, or els to abide the rewarde of their
+loosenesse.
+
+By reading this little tratise ensuing, you shall see to what
+marueilous subtil pollicies these deceiuers have atteyned, and how
+daylie they practise strange driftes for their purpose. I say no more,
+but if all these forewarnings may be regarded, to the beneft of the
+well minded, and iust controll of these carelesse wretches, it is all
+I desire, and no more then I hope to see.
+
+Yours in all he may
+
+R. G.
+
+[Illustration: ]
+
+
+The third and last part of Conny-catching with the new deuifed knauish
+Arte of Fooletaking.
+
+
+Being by chance inuited to supper, where were present diuers, both of
+worship an good accompt, as occasion serued for entercourse of talke,
+the present treacheries and wicked deuises of the world was called in
+question. Amongst other most hatefull and wel worthie reprebension,
+the woondrous villanies of loose and lewde persons, that beare the
+shape of men, yet are monsters in condition, was specially remembred,
+and not onely they, but their complices, their confederates, their
+base natured women and close compacters were noted: Namely, such as
+tearme themselues Conny-catchers, Crosse-biters, with their
+appertaining names to their seueral coosening qualities, as already is
+made knowne to the world, by two seuerall imprinted books, by means
+whereof, the present kinde of conference was occasioned. Quoth a
+Gentleman sitting at the Table, whose deepe step into age deciphered
+his experience, and whose grauitie in speeche reported his discretion,
+quoth hee, by the two published bookes of Cony-catching: I have seene
+divers thinges whereof I was before ignorant, not withstanding had I
+beene acquainted with the author: I could haue giuen him such notes of
+notorious matters that way intending, as in neither of the pamphlets
+are the like set downe. Beside, they are so necessarie to be knowne,
+as they will both forearme any man against such trecherous vipers, and
+forewarne the simpler sort from conuersing with them. The Gentleman
+being knowne to be within commission of the peace, and that what he
+spake of either came to him by examinations, or by riding in the
+circuits as other like officers do: was intreated by one man aboue the
+rest (as his leisure serued him) to acquaint him with those notes, and
+he would so bring it to passe, as the writer of the other two bookes,
+should haue the sight of them, and if theyr quantitie would serue,
+that he should publish them as a third, and more necessary part then
+the former were.  The Gentleman replied al such notes as I speake, are
+not of mine owne knowledge, yet from such men haue I receiued them, as
+I dare assure their truth: and but that by naming men wronged by such
+mates, more displeasure would ensue then were expedient, I could set
+downe both time, place, and parties. But the certaintie shal suffice
+without any such offence. As for such as that see their iniuries
+discouered, and (biting the lip) say to themselues, thus was I made a
+Conny: their names being shadowed, they haue no cause of anger, in
+that the example of their honest simplicitie beguiled, may shield a
+number more endangered from tasting the like. And seeing you haue
+promised to make them knowne to the author of the former two Bookes,
+you shall the sooner obtaine your request: assuring him thus much vpon
+my credit & honestie, that no one vntrueth is in the notes, but euerie
+one credible, and to be iustified if need serue.  Within a fortnight
+or thereabout afterward, the Gentleman performed his promise, in
+seuerall papers sent the notes, which here are in our book compiled
+together when thou hast read, say, if euer thou heardest more notable
+villanies discouered. And if thou or thy friends receiue any good by
+this, as it cannot be but they will make a number more carefull of
+themselues: thanke the honest Gentleman for his notes, and the writer
+that published both the other and these, for generall example.
+
+A pleasant tale howe an honest substantiall Citizen was made a Connie,
+and simplie entertained a knaue that carried awaie his goods verie
+politickly.
+
+What laws are used among this helish crew, what words and termes they
+give themselves and their copesmates, are at large set downe in the
+former two Bookes: let it suffise yee then in this, to read the simple
+true discourses of such as have by extraordinary cunning and treachery
+beene deceived, and remembering their subtle meanes there, and slye
+practises here, be prepared against the reaches of any such
+companions.
+
+Not long since, a crew of Conny-catchers meeting togither, and in
+conference, laying downe such courses as they severally should take,
+to shunne suspect, and returne a common benfit among them: the Carders
+received their charge, the Dicers theirs, the hangers about the court
+theirs, the followers of Sermons theirs and so the rest to their
+offices. But one of them especiallie, who at their woonted meetings,
+when reporte was made howe every purchase was gotten, and by what
+pollycie each one prevailed: this fellowe in a kinde of priding
+scorne, would usually say.
+
+In faithe Maisters these thinges are prettily done, common sleyghts,
+expressing no deepe reache of witte, and I woonder men are so simple
+to bee so beguiled.  I would fayne see some rare and artificiall feate
+indeede, that some admiration and fame might insue the dooing thereof:
+I promise yee, I disdayne these base and pettie paltries, and may my
+fortune iumpe with my resolution, yee shall heare my boyes with in a
+day or two, that I will accomplish a rare stratagem indeed, of more
+value then fortie of yours, and when it is done shall carry some
+credit with it. They wondring at his wordes, desired to see the
+successe of them, & so dispersing themselves as they were accustomed,
+left this frollicke fellow pondering on his affaires. A Cittizens
+house in London, which hee had diligently eyed & aymed at for a
+fortnights space, was the place wherein he must performe this exploit,
+and having learned one of the servant maides name of the house, as
+also where shee was borne and her kindred. Upon a sonday in the
+afternone, when it was her turne to attend on her maister and mistres
+to the garden in Finsbury fields, to regard the children while they
+sported about, this craftie mate having dulie watched their comming
+forth, and seeing that they intended to goe downe S. Laurence lane,
+stepped before them, ever casting an eye back, least they should turne
+some contrarie way: but their following still fitting his owne desire,
+neere unto the Conduit in Aldermanbury, he crossed the way and came
+unto the maid, and kissing her sayd. Coosen Margeret, I am verye glad
+to see you well, my unckle your father, and all your friends in the
+Countrey are in good health God be praised. The Maide hearing herselfe
+named, and not knowing the man, modestly blushed, which hee
+perceiving, held way on with her amongst her fellow apprentices, and
+thus began againe.  I see Coosen you knowe mee not, and I doe not
+greatlie blame you, it is so long since you came foorth of the
+Countrey, but I am such a ones sonne, naming her Uncle right, and his
+sonnes name, which she very well remembred, but had not seene him in
+eleven yeares.  Then taking foorth a bowed groat, and an olde pennie
+bowed, he gave it her as being sent from her Uncle and Aunt, whome hee
+tearmed to bee his father and mother: Withall (quoth he) I have a
+Gammon of bacon and a Cheese from my Uncle your Father, which are sent
+to your Maister and Mistresse, which I received of the Carrier,
+because my Uncle enioyned me to deliver them, when I must intreat your
+mistres, that at Whitsontide next shee will give you leave to come
+downe into the Countrey. The Maide thinking simplie all hee said was
+true, and as they so farre from their parents, are not onely glad to
+heare of their welfare, but also rejoyce to see any of their kindred:
+so this this poor Maid, wel knowing her Uncle had a sonne so named as
+he called himself, and thinking from a boy (as he was at her leaving
+the Countrey) he was now growne such a proper handsome young man, was
+not a little joyful to see him: beside, shee seemed proud, that her
+kinsman was so neat a youth, and so shee held on questioning with him
+about her friends: hee soothing each matter so cunningly, as the maide
+was confidently perswaded of him. In this time, one of the children
+stepped to her mother and said, Our Marget (mother) hath a fine coosen
+come out of the Country, and he hath a Cheese for my Father and you:
+whereon shee looking backe, said: Maide, is that your kinsman? yes
+forsooth mistresse quoth shee, my Uncles sonne, whome I left a little
+one when I came forth of the countrey.
+
+The wilye Treacher, beeing maister of his trade, would not let slippe
+this opportunitie, but courteouslie stepping to the Mistresse (who
+loving her maid wel, because indeed shee had been a very good servant,
+and from her first comming to London had dwelt with her, tould her
+husband therof) coyned such a smooth tale unto them both, fronting it
+with the Gammon of Bacon and the Cheese sent from their maides Father,
+and hoping they would giue her leaue at Whitsontide to visit the
+countrey, as they with verie kinde words entertained him, inuiting him
+the next night to supper, when he promised to bring with him the
+Gammon of Bacon and the Cheese. Then framing an excuse of certaine
+busines in the town, for that time he tooke his leaue of the Maister
+and Mistresse, and his new Cosen Margaret, who gave many a looke after
+him (poore wench) as he went, ioying in her thoughts to haue such a
+kinsman.
+
+On the morrow hee prepared a good Gammon of bacon, which he closed up
+in a soiled linnen cloth, and sewed an old card vpon it, whereon he
+wrote a superscription vnto the Maister of the Maide, and at what
+signe it was to be deliuered, and afterward scraped some of the
+letters halfe out, that it might seeme they had bin rubd out in the
+carriage. A good Cheese he prepared likewise, with inscription
+accordingly on it, that it could not be discerned, but that some
+unskilfull writer in the country had done it, both by the grosse
+proportion of the letters, as also the bad ortographie which amongst
+plaine husbandmen is verie common, in that they haue no better
+instruction. So hiring a Porter to carrie them betweene flue and fire
+in the evening he comes to the cittizens house, and entring the shop,
+receives them of the Porter, whome the honest meaning Cittizen would
+have paid for his pains, but this his maids new-found Cosen sayd hee
+was satisfied alreadie, and so straining courtesse would not permit
+him: well, vp are carried the Bacon and the Cheese, where God knowes,
+Margaret was not a little busse, to haue all things fine and neat
+against her Cosens comming vp, her Mistresse like wise, (as one well
+affecting her seruant) had prouided verie good cheere, set all her
+plate on the Cubboorde for shewe, and beautified the house with
+Cusheons, carpets, stooles and other deuises of needle worke, as at
+such times diuers will do, to haue the better report made of their
+credite amongst their seruants friends in the Country, albeit at this
+time (God wot) it turned to theyr owne after-sorrowing.  The maister
+of the house, to delay the time while Supper was readye, hee likewise
+shewes this dissembler his shop, who seeing things fadge so pat to his
+purpose, could question of this sort, and that well enougth I warrant
+you, to discern the best from the worst and their appointed places,
+purposing a further reache then the honest Cittizen dreamed of: and to
+bee plaine with ye, such was this occupiers trade, as though I may not
+name it, yet thus much I dare vtter, that the worst thing he could
+carry away, was aboue twentie nobles, because hee dealt altogeather in
+whole and great sale, which made this companion forge this kindred and
+aquaintance, for an hundred pound or twaine was the very least he
+aimed at. At length the mistresse sendes word supper is on the Table,
+where vpon vp hee conducts his guest, and after diuers welcomes, as
+also thanks for the Cheese and Bacon: To the Table they sit, where let
+it suffice, hee wanted no ordinarie good fare, wine and other knackes,
+beside much talke of the Countrey, how much his friends were beholding
+for his Cosen Margaret, to whome by her mistresse leaue hee dranke
+twise or thrise, and she poore soule dooing the like againe to him
+with remembrance of her father and other kindred, which he stil
+smoothed very cunningly.  Countenance of talke made them careles of
+the time which slipped from them faster then they were aware of, nor
+did the deceiuer hasten his departing, because he expected what indeed
+followed, which was, that being past tenne of the clocke, and he
+feigning his lodging to be at Saint Gyles in the field, was intreated
+both by the goodman and his wife to take a bed there for that night,
+for fashion sake (though very glad of this offer) hee said he would
+not troble them, but giuing them many thanks, would to his lodging
+though it were further. But wonderfull it was to see how earnest the
+honest Citizen and his wife laboured to perswade him, that was more
+willing to staye then they could bee to bid him, and what dissembled
+willingnesse of departure hee vsed on the other side, to couer the
+secret villanie intended. Well, at the length with much ado, he is
+contented to stay, when Margaret and her Mistresse presently stirred
+to make ready his bed, which the more to the honest mans hard hap, but
+all the better for this artificial Conny-catcher, was in the same room
+where they supped, being commonly called their hall, and there indeed
+stood a verie faire bed, as in such sightly roumes it may easily bee
+thought, Citizens vse not to haue any thing meane or simple. The
+mistresse, least her guest should imagine she disturbed him, suffered
+all the plate to stand still on the cupbord: and when she perceiued
+his bed was warmed, and euery thing els according to her mind, she and
+her husband bidding him good night: tooke themselues to their chamber,
+which was on the same floore but inward, hauing another chamber
+betweene them and the hall, wherw the maides and children had their
+lodging.  So desiring him to call for any thing hee wanted, and
+charging Margaret to looke it should bee so, to bed are they gone:
+when the Apprentises hauing brought vp the keyes of the street dore, &
+left them in their maisters chamber as they were woont to do, after
+they had said praiers, their evening exercise, to bed go they
+likewise, which was in a Garret backward ouer their maisters
+chamber. None are nowe vp but poore Margaret and her counterfeit
+coosen, whom she loth to offend with long talke, because it waxed
+late: after some few more speeches, about their parents and friends in
+the countrey, she seeing him laid in bed, and all such thinges by him
+as she deemed needfull, with a low courtesie I warrant ye, commits him
+to his quiet, and so went to bed to her fellowes the maidseruants.
+Well did this hypocrite perceive the keyes of the doores carried into
+the goodmans chamber, wherof he being not a litle glad, thoght now
+they would imagine all things sure, and therfore doutlesse sleep the
+sounder: as for the keyes, he needed no helpe of them, because such as
+hee go neuer vnprouided of instruments fitting their trade, & so at
+this time was this notable trecher. In the dead time of the night when
+sound sleepe makes the eare vnapt to heare the verie least noyse, he
+forsaketh his bed, & hauing gotten al the plate bound up togither in
+his cloke, goeth down into the shop, where well remembring both the
+plate & parcels, maketh vp his pack with some twenty pounds worth of
+goods more. Then setling to his engin, he getteth the doore off the
+hinges, and being foorth, lifteth close to againe, and so departs,
+meeting with in a doozen paces, three or foure of his companions that
+lurked therabouts for the purpose. Their word for knowing each other,
+as is said, was Quest, and this villains comfortable newes to them,
+was Twag, signifiyng hee had sped: ech takes a fleece for easier
+carriage, and so away to Belbrow, which as I haue heard is as they
+interpret it, the house of a theefe receiuer, without which they can
+do nothing, and this house with an apt porter to it, standes ready for
+them al houres of the night: too many such are there in London, the
+maisters whereof beare countenance of honest substantiall men, but all
+their living is gotten in this order, the end of such (though they
+scape awhile) will be sailing westward in a Cart to Eiborn.  Imagine
+these villanies there in their iollitie, the one porting point by
+point his cunning deceipt, and the other (fitting his humour)
+extolling the deede with no meane commendations. But returning to the
+honest Citizen, who finding in the morning how dearly he paid for a
+gammon of bacon, and a cheese, and how his kinde courtesie was thus
+trecherously requited: blames the poore maide, as innocent herein as
+himselfe, and imprisoning her, thinking so to regaine his owne: griefe
+with ill cherishing there shortens her life: And thus ensueth one hard
+hap upon another, to the great griefe both of maister and mistresse,
+when the trueth was knowne, that they so wronged their honest servant:
+how it may forewarne others, I leave to your owne opinions, that see
+what extraordinarie devises are now avayed, to beguile the simple and
+honest liberall minded.
+
+
+
+
+Of a notable knave, who for his cunning deceiving a gentleman of his
+purse: scorned the name of a Conny-catcher, and would needs be termed
+a Foole-taker, as maister and beginner Of that new found Arte.
+
+
+A Crew of these wicked companions, being one day met togither in Pauls
+Church (as that is a usual place of their assemblie, both to determin
+on their drifts, as also to speed of many a bootie) seeing no
+likelihood of a good afternoone, so they tearme it either fore-noone
+or after, when ought is to be done: some dispersed themselves to the
+plaies, other to the bowling allies and not past two or three stayed
+in the Church. Quoth on of them, I have vowed not to depart, but
+something or other Ile haue before I go: my minde giues me, that this
+place yet will yeelde us all our suppers this night, the other holding
+like opinion with him, there likewise walked vp and downe, looking
+when occasion would serue for some Cash. At length they espyed a
+Gentleman towarde the lawe entring in at the little North doore, and a
+countrey Clyent going with him in verye hard talke, the Gentleman
+holding his gowne open with his armes on eyther side as very manie
+doe, gaue sight of a faire purple velvet purse, which was halfe put
+vnder his girdle: which I warrant you the resolute fellow that would
+not depart without some thing, had quicklye espyed. A game, quote hee
+to his fellows, marke the stand, and so separating themselves walked
+aloofe, the Gentleman going to the nether steppe of the staires that
+ascend vp into the Quire, and there he walked still with his
+client. Oft this crew of mates met together, and said there was no
+hope of nipping the bong because he held open his gowne so wide, and
+walked in such an open place. Base knaves, quoth the frolik fellowe,
+if I say I will have it, I must have it, though hee that owes it had
+sworne the contrarie. Then looking aside, hee spyed his trugge or
+queane comming vppe the Church: away, quoth hee to the other, go looke
+you for some other purchase, this wench and I are suffient for
+this. They goe, he lessons the drab in this sort, that shee should to
+the Gentleman, whose name shee verye well knew, in that shee had holpe
+to coosen him once before, & pretending to be sent to him from one he
+was well acquainted with for his councell should give him his fee for
+auoiding suspition, & so frame some wrong done hir as well inough she
+could: when her mate (taking occasion as it serued) would woorke the
+meane, shee should strike, & so they both prevaile. The queane well
+inured with such courses, because she was one of the most skilful in
+that profession, walked up and downe alone in the Gentlemans sight,
+that he might discerne shee stayed to speake with him, and as he
+turned toward her, hee saw her take money out of her purse, whereby
+hee gathered some benefite was toward him: which made him the sooner
+dispatch his other clyent, when shee stepping to him, told such a tale
+of commendations from his verie friend, that had sent her to him as
+she said, that hee entertained her very kindly, and giving him his fee,
+which before her face he put up into his purse, and thrust under his
+girdle againe: she proceeded to a very sound discourse, whereto he
+listened with no little attention. The time serving fit for the
+fellows purpose, he came behind the Gentleman, and as many times one
+friend wil familiarly with another, clap his hands over his eyes to
+make him guesse who he is, so did this companion, holding his hands
+fast over the Gentlemans eyes, sayde: who am I: twise or thrise, in
+which time the drab had gotten the purse and put it up. The Gentleman
+thinking it had been some merrie friend of his, reckoned the names of
+three or foure, when letting him go, the crafty knave dissembling a
+bashful shame of what he had done, said: By my troth sir I crie ye
+mercy, as I came in at the Church doore, I took ye for such a one
+(naming a man) a verie friend of mine, whome you very much resemble: I
+beseech ye be not angrie, it was verie boldlye done of me, but in
+penance of my fault, so please yee to accept it, I will bestow a
+gallon or two of Wine on yee, and so laboured him earnestly to go with
+him to the taverne, stil alledging his sorow for mistaking him. The
+Gentleman little suspecting how who am I had handled him, seeing how
+sorie he was, and seeming to be a man of no such base condition: tooke
+all in good part, saying: No harme sir, to take one for another, a
+fault wherein any man may easily erre, and so excusing the acceptation
+of his wine, because he was busie there with a gentlewoman his friend:
+the trecher with courtesie departed, & the drab (having what shee
+would) shortning her tale, hee desiring her to come to his Chamber the
+next morning, went to the place where her copes-mate and she met, and
+not long after, divers other of the crue, who bearing in what manner
+this act was performed, smiled a good therat, that she had both got
+the Gentlemans purse, her owne money againe, and his advise for iust
+nothing. He that had done this tall exploit, in a place so open in
+view, so hardly to be come by, & on a man that made no meane esteem of
+his wit: bids his fellowes keepe the worthles name of a Conny-catcher
+to themselves: for he hence-foorth would bee termed a Foole-taker, and
+such as could imitate this quaint example of his, (which he would set
+down as an entrance into that art) should not thinke scorne to become
+his schollers.
+
+Night drawing on apace, the Gentleman returned home, not al this while
+missing his purse, but being set at supper, his wife intreated a pint
+of Sack, which hee minding to send for: drewe to his purse, and seeing
+it gone, what strange lookes (beside sighs) were betweene him and his
+wife. I leave to your supposing, and blame them not: for as I have
+heard, there was seven pound in gold, beside thirtie shillings and od
+white money in the purse. But in the middle of his griefe, hee
+remembred him that said, who am I: Wherewith hee brake foorth into a
+great laughter, the cause whereof his wife beeing desirous to know, he
+declared all that passed between him and the deceiuer, as also how
+sone afterward the queane abreuiated her discourse and followed: so in
+troth wife (quoth he) betweene who am I and the drab, my purse is
+gone: let his lesse teach others to looke better to theirs.
+
+An other Tale of a coosening companion, who would needs trie his
+cunning in this new inuentcd arte, and how by his knauerie (at one
+instant) he beguiled halfe a dozen and more.
+
+Of late time there hath a certaine base kinde of trade beene vsed, who
+though diuers poore men, and doubtles honest, apply themselues onely
+to relieue their need: yet are there some notorious varlets do the
+same, being compacted with such kinde of people, as this present
+treatise manifesteth to the world, and what with outward simplicity on
+the one side, and cunning close treachery on the other, diuers honest
+Cittizens and day-labouring men, that resort to such places as I am to
+speake of, onely for recreation as opportunitie serueth, haue beene of
+late sundry times deceyued of their purses. This trade, or rather
+vnsufferable loytring qualitie, in singing of Ballets, and songs at
+the doores of such houses where playes are vsed, as also in open
+markets and other places of this Cittie, where is most resort: which
+is nothing els but a slie fetch to draw many together, who listning
+vnto an harmelesse dittie, afterwarde walke home to their houses with
+heauie hearts: from such as are heereof true witnesses to their cost,
+doo I deliuer this example. A subtill fellow, belike imboldned by
+acquaintance with the former deceit, or els being but a beginner to
+practise the same, calling certain of his companions together, would
+try whether he could attaine to be maister of his art or no, by taking
+a great many of fools with one traine: but let his intent and what els
+beside, remaine to abide the censure after the mater is heard, and
+come to Gratious street, where this villanous pranke was performed. A
+roging mate, & such another with them were there got vpon a stal
+singing of balets, which belike was some prety toy, for very many
+gathered about to heare it, & divers buying, as their affections
+serued, drew to their purses, & paid the singers for them. The slie
+mate and his fellowes, who were dispersed among them that stood to
+hear the songs well noted where euerie man that bought, put up his
+purse againe, and to such as would not buy, counterfeit warning was
+sundrie times giuen by the roge and his associate, to beware of the
+cut-purse, & take to their purses, which made them often feel where
+their purses were, either in sleeue, hose, or at girdle, to know
+whether they were safe or no. Thus the crafty copesmates were
+acquainted with what they most desired, and as they were scatred by
+shouldring, thrusting, feining to let fall somthing, and other wilie
+tricks fit for their purporse: heere one lost his purse, there another
+had his pocket pickt, & to say all in briefe, at one instant, vpon the
+complaint of one or two that saw their purses were gone, eight more in
+the same companie, found themselues in like predicament.  Some angrie,
+others sorrowfull, and all greatly discontented, looking about them,
+knewe not who to suspect or challenge, in that the villaines
+themselues that had thus beguiled them, made shew that they had
+sustained like losse. But one angry fellow, more impacient then all
+the rest, he falls vpon the ballad singer, and beating him with his
+fists well favouredly, sayes, if he had not listned his singing, he
+had not lost his purse, and therefore would not be otherwise
+perswaded, but that they two and the cutpurses were compacted
+together.  The rest that had lost their purses likewise, & saw that so
+many complaine togither: they iump in opinion with the other fellow, &
+begin to tug & hale the ballad singers when one after one, the false
+knaves began to shrink away with the purses, by means of some officer
+then being there present, the two Roges were had before a iustice, and
+upon his discreete examination made, it was found, that they and the
+cut-purses were compacted together, and that by this unsuspected
+villanie, they had deceived many. The one Foole-taker himself, with
+one or two more of that companie, was not long after apprehended: when
+I doubt not but they had their reward answerable to their deseruing:
+for I heare of their iorney westward, but not of their returne: let
+this forewarne those that listen singing in the streets.
+
+Of a craftie mate, that brought two young men vnto a Tauerne, where
+departing with a Cup, hee left them to pay both for the wine and Cup.
+
+
+A friend of mine sent mee this note, and assuring me the truth
+thereof, I thought necessary to let it downe amongst the rest: both
+for the honest simplicitie on the one side and most cunning knavery
+used on the other, and thus it was. Two young men of familiar
+acquaintance, who delighted much in musicke, because themselves
+therein were somwhat expert, as on the virginals, bandora, lute and
+such like: were one eventing at a common inne of this town (as I have
+heard) where the one of them shewed his skil on the virginals to the
+no little contentment of the hearers. Now as divers guests of the
+house came into the roome to listen, so among the rest entered an
+artificial Cony-catcher, who as occasion served, in the time of
+ceasing between the severall toies and fancies be plaied: very much
+commended his cunning, quick hand, and such qualities praiseworthy in
+such a professor. The time being come, when these young men craved
+leaue to depart, this politique varlet stepping to them, desired that
+they would accept a quarte of Wine at his hande, which hee would most
+gladlie bestow upon them: besides, if it liked him that played on the
+Virginals to instruct, hee would helpe him to so good a place, as
+happily might advantage him for ever. These kind words, delivered with
+such honest outward shewe, caused the yoong men, whose thoughts were
+free from any other opinion, than to bee as truely and plainly dealt
+withall as themselves meant, accepted his offer, because hee that
+played on the Virginals was desirous to have some good place of
+seruice: & hereupon to the Tauerne they goe, and being set, the wily
+companion calleth for two pintes of wine, a pinte of white, and a
+pinte of claret, casting his cloake upon the table, and falling to his
+former communication of preferring the yoong man. The wine is
+brought, and two cuppes withall, as is the vsuall manner: when
+drinking to them of the one pinte, they pledge him, not unthankfull
+for his gentlenesse. After some time spent in talke, and as he
+perceived fit for his purpose, hee takes the other cup, and tastes the
+other pinte of wine: wherewith he finding fault, that it dranke
+somewhat harde, sayd, that Rose-water and Sugar would do no harme:
+whereupon he leaves his seate, saying he was well acquainted with one
+of the seruants of the house, of whom he could have two penny worth of
+Rose-Water for a penny, and so of Sugar likewise, wherefore be would
+step to the barre unto him, so taking the cup in his hand, hee did:
+the young men neuer thinking on any such treacherie as ensued, in that
+he seemed an honest man, and beside left his cloake lying on the table
+by them. No more returnes the yonker with Rose-water and Sugar, but
+stepping cut of doores, unseene of any, goes away roundly with the
+cup. The young men not a little wondering at his long tarrying, by the
+comming of the seruants to see what they wanted, who tooke no regarde
+of his sudden departure, finde themselves there left, not onely to pay
+for the wine, but for the Cuppe also, being rashlye supposed by the
+maister and his seruants to be copartners with the treacherous
+villaine: but their honest behaviour well knowne, as also their
+simplicity too much abused, well witnessed their innocencie:
+notwithstanding they were faine to pay for the cup, as afterwarde they
+did, hauing nothing towardes their charge but a thred bare cloake not
+worth two shillings. Take heede how you drinke wine with any such
+companions.
+
+Of an honest housholder which was cuningly deceyued by a subtill
+companion, that came to hire a Chamber for his Master.
+
+Not farre from Charing Crosse dwelleth an honest young man, who being
+not long since married, and having more roomes in his house than
+himselfe occupyeth, either for terme time, or the Court lying so
+neere, as divers do, to make a reasonable commoditie, and to ease
+house-rent, which (as the worlde goeth now to none of the cheapest)
+letteth foorth a chamber or two, according as it may be spared. In an
+evening but a while since, came one in the manner of a Seruing man to
+this man and his wife, and he must needes have a Chamber for his
+Maister, offering so largely, as the bargaine was soone concluded
+betweene them. His intent was to have fingered some bootie in the
+house, as by the sequele it may bee likeliest gathered: but belike no
+fit thing lying abroad, or hee better regarded then happily be would
+be, his expectation that way was frustrated, yet as a resolute
+Conny-catcher indeed, that scorneth to attempt without some successe,
+and rather will pray upon small commoditye, then returne to his
+fellows disgraced with a lost labor: he summons his wits together, &
+by a smooth tale over-reached both the man and his wife. He tels them,
+that his Maister was a captaine late come from the Sea, and had costly
+apparel to bring thither, which for more earlie carriage, he entreats
+them lend him a sheet to bind it vp in, they suspecting no ill,
+because he required their boy should goe with him to helpe him cary
+the stuffe, the good wife steppes vnto her Chest, where her linnen lay
+finelie sweetned with Rose leaves and Lavender, and lends him a very
+good sheete in deed.
+
+This successe made him bold to venter a little further, and then he
+tels them, his maister had a great deale of broken Sugar, and fine
+spices that lay negligently abroad in his lodging as it was brought
+from the Ship, all which hee was assured his Maister would bestow on
+them, so he could deuise how to get it brought thither.
+
+These liberall promises, prevailing with them that lightlie beleeued,
+and withall were somewhat couetous of the Sugar and spices: The woman
+demanded if a couple of pillow-beeres would not serue to bring the
+sugar and spices in: yes marry (quoth hee) so the Sugar may best be
+kept by it self, and the spices by themselves.  And (quoth hee)
+because there are many craftie knaues abroad,(greeving that any should
+be craftier then himselfe) and in the evening the linnen might
+quicklie bee snatched from the boy: for the more safety, he would
+carry the sheet and pillow-beeres himselfe, & within an hower or
+little more returne with the boy againe, because he would have all
+things redy before his maister came, who (as he said) was attending on
+the Councell at the court. The man and his wife crediting his smooth
+speeches, sends their boy with him, and so along toward Zuie-bridge go
+they. The Conny-catcher seeing himselfe at free libertie, that he had
+gotten a very good sheet, and two fine pillow-beeres: steps to the
+wall, as though he would make water, bidding the boye goe faire and
+softly on before. The boy doubting nothing, did as hee willed him,
+when presently he stept into some house hard by fit to entertaine him:
+and neuer since was hee, his Maister, the Sugar, spices, or the linnen
+heard off. Manie have beene in this manner deceived, as I heare, let
+this then giue them warning to beware of any such unprofitable guests.
+
+Of one that came to buy a knife, and made first proofe of his trade on
+him that solde it.
+
+One of the cunning Nippes about the towne, came unto a poore Cutler to
+have a Cuttle made according to his owne minde, and not aboue three
+inches would he have both the knife and the haft in length: yet of
+such pure mettall, as possibly may bee.  Albeit the poore man never
+made the like before, yet being promised foure times the value of his
+stuffe and paines, he was contented to doe this, and the day being
+come that hee should deliuer it, the partie came, who liking it
+exceedingly, gaue him the money promised, which the poore man gladly
+put up into his purse, that hung at a button hole of his wascoate
+before his brest, smiling that he was so well paid for so small a
+trifle: the partie perceiuing his merry countenance, and imagining he
+gest for what purpose the knife was, sayde, honest man, whereat smile
+you? By my troth sir (quoth the Cutler) I smile at your knife, because
+I never made one so litle before: and were it not offensive unto you,
+I would request to know to what use you will put it too?  Wilt thou
+keepe my counsaile (quoth the Nipe) yea on mine honestie (quoth the
+Cutler.) Then hearken in thy eare said the Nip, and so rounding with
+him, cut the poore mans purse that houng at his bosom, he neuer
+faeling when he did it: with this knife (quoth the Nippe) meane I to
+cut a purse, marry GOD forbid (quoth the Cutler) I cannot thinke you
+to be such a kind of man, I see you loue to iest, and so they parted.
+
+The poore man, not so wise as to remember his owne purse, when by such
+a warning hee might haue taken the offendour dooing the deede, but
+rather proud (as it were) that his money was so easily earned: walkes
+to the Alehouse, which was within a house or two of his owne, and
+finding there three or foure of his neighbors with whom he began to
+iest very pleasantly: sweares by cocke and pie hee would spend a whole
+groat uppon them, for hee had gotten it and more, cleerely by a good
+bargaine that morning.
+
+Though it was no maruell to see him so liberall, because indeede he
+was a good companion: yet they were loth to put him to such cost,
+nothwithstanding he would need doe it, and so farre as promise
+stretcht, was presently fild in and set upon the boord. In the
+drinking time often he wisht to meet more such customers as he had
+done that morning, and commended him for a very honest gentleman I
+warrant you. At length, when the reckoning was to be paide, hee drawes
+to his purse, where finding nothing left but a peece of the string in
+the button hole, I leave to your iudgement, whether he was now as
+sorie as he was merrie before.
+
+Blanck and all amort sits the poore Cutler, and with such a pittifull
+countenance, as his neighbours did not a little admire his solemne
+alteration, and desirous to know the cause thereof, from point to
+point he discourseth the whole manner of the tragedie, neuer naming
+his new customer, but with such a farre fetcht sigh, as soule and body
+would have parted in sunder. And in midst of all his griefe, he brake
+forth into these termes.  Ile belieue a man the better by his word
+while I know him, the knife was bought to cut a purse indeed, and I
+thanke him for it, hee made the first proofe of the edge with mee. The
+neigbbours greeving for his losse, yet smiling at his folly to be so
+overreached, were faine to pay the groate the Cutler called in,
+because he had no other money about him, and spent as much more beside
+to driue away his heauinesse.
+
+This tale, because it was somewhat misreported before, upon talke had
+with the poore Cutler himselfe, is set downe now in true forme and
+manner how it was done, therefore is there no offence offered, when by
+better consideration, a thing may be enlarged or amended, or at least
+the note be better confirmed. Let the poore Cutlers mishap example
+others, that they brag not over hastily of gaine easily gotten, least
+they chance to pay as deerely for it, as he did.
+
+Of a yoong Nip that cunningly beguiled an antient professor of that
+trade, and his queane with him, at a play.
+
+A good fellow that was newly entered into the nipping craft, and had
+not as yet attained to any acquaintance with the chiefe and cunning
+maisters of that trade: In the Christmas holy-dayes last, came to see
+a playe at the Bull within Bishops gate, there to take his benefit as
+time and place would permit him. Not long had hee stayed in the
+prease, but hee had gotten a yoong mans purse out of his pocket, which
+when he had, hee stepped into the stable to take out the money, and to
+conuey away the purse. But looking on his commoditie, hee founde
+nothing therein but white counters, a thimble and a broken three
+pence, which belike the fellowe that ought it, had doone of purpose to
+deceiue the cutpurse withall, or else had plaide at the Cardes for
+counters, and so carried his winnings about him till his next sitting
+to playe. Somewhat displeased to be so ouertaken, he looked aside, and
+spied a lustie youth entring at the doore, and his drab with him; this
+fellow he had heard to bee one of the finest Nippers about the towne,
+and euer caried his queane with him, for conueiance when the stratagem
+was performed: he puts up the counters into the purse againe, and
+follows close to see some peece of their seruice. Among a companie of
+seemely men was this lustie companion and his minion gotten, where
+both they might best beholde the playe, and work for aduantage, and
+ever this young Nip was next to him, to mark when he should attempt
+any exployte, standing as it were more then halfe between the cunning
+Nip and his drab, onely to learne some part of their skill. In short
+time the deed was performed, but how, the young Nip could not easily
+discern, only he felt him shift his hand toward his trug, to convey
+the purse to her, but she being somwhat mindful of the play, because a
+merriment was then on the stage, gaue no regarde: whereby thinking he
+had puld her by the coat, hes twicht the young Nip by the cloke, who
+taking advantage of this offer, put downe his hand and receiued the
+purse of him: then counting it discourtesse to let him loose al his
+labour, he softly pluckt the queane by the coate, which shee feeling,
+and imagining it had beene her companions hand: receiued of him the
+first purse with the white counters in it. Then fearing least his stay
+should hinder him, and seeing the other intended to have more purses
+ere he departed: away goes the young Nip with the purse he got to
+eastiy, wherein (as I haue heard) was xxvii. shillings and odde mony,
+which did so much content him, as that he had beguiled so ancient a
+stander in that profession: what the other thought when he found the
+purse, and could not gesse howe hee was coosened: I leave to your
+censures, onely this makes me smile, that one false knave can beguile
+another, which biddes honest men looke the better to their pursses.
+
+How a Gentleman was craftily deceived of a Chayne of Golde and his
+pursse, in Paules Church in London.
+
+A Gentleman of the countrey, who (as I have herd since the time of his
+mishap, whereof I am now to speake) had about halfe a yeere before
+buryed his wife, and belike thinking wel of some other Gentlewoman,
+whom hee ment to make account of as his second choice: upon good hope
+or other wife persuaded, he came up to London to provide himselfe of
+such necessaries as the Countrey is not usually stored withall.
+Besides, silkes, veluets, cambrickes and such like, he bought a Chaine
+of Golde that cost him fiftie and seaven pounds and odde money,
+whereof because he would have the mayden head or first wearing
+himselfe, hee presently put it on in the Goldsmiths shop, and so
+walked therewith about London, as his occasions serued.  But let not
+the Gentleman bee offended, who if this Booke come to his handes, can
+best auouch the trueth of this discourse, if heere by the ways I blame
+his rash pride, or simple credulitie: for betweene the one and other,
+the Chaine hee paide so deere for about ten of the clock in the
+morning, the Cunny catchers the same day ere night shared amongst
+them, a matter whereat hee may well greeve and I be sorie, in respect
+hee is my very good friend: but to the purpose. This Gentleman walking
+in Paules, with his Chaine faire glittering about his necke, talking
+with his man about some businesse: was well viewed and regarded by a
+crewe of Conny-catchers, whose teeth watred at his goodly Chaine, yet
+knew not how to come by it hanging as it did, and therefore entred
+into secret conspiration among themselves, if they could not come by
+all the Chaine, yet how they might make it lighter by halfe a score
+poundes at the least. Still had they their eyes on the honest
+Gentleman, who little doubted any such treason intended against his so
+late bought bargaine: and they hauing laid their plot, ech one to be
+assistant in this enterprise, saw when the Gentleman dismissed his
+servant, to go about such affaires as hee had appointed him, himselfe
+still walking there up and downe the middle Isle. One of these mates,
+that stood most on his cunning in these exploytes, folowed the serving
+man foorth of the Church calling him by diuers names, as John, Thomas,
+William, &c. as though he had knowne his right name, but could not hit
+on it: which whether he did or no I know not, but wel I wot the
+seruingman turned back again, and seeing him that called him seemed a
+Gentleman, booted and cloaked after the newest fashion, came with his
+hat in his hand to him, saying: Sir, do ye call me? Marie doe I my
+frend quoth the other, doost not thou serue such a Gentleman? and
+named one as himselfe pleased.  No truely Sir, answered the
+seruingman, I know not any such Gentleman as you speake of. By my
+troth replyed the Conny-catcher, I am assured I knew thee and thy
+Maister, though now I cannot suddenly remember my selfe. The
+seruingman fearing no harme, yet fitting the humour of this trecherous
+companion, tolde right his Masters name whome he served, and that his
+Master was even then walking in Paules. O Gods will (quoth the
+Cony-catcher, repeating his masters name) a very honest Gentleman, of
+such a place is he not? naming a shire of the Country: for hee must
+knowe both name, Country and somtimes what Gentlemen dwell neere the
+partie that is to bee over reached, ere hee can proceed. No in deede
+Sir (answered the servingman, with such reverence as it had beene to
+an honest Gentleman indeed) my Master is of such a place, a mile from
+such a Towne, and heard by such a knights house: by which report the
+deceiver was halfe instructed, because though he was ignorant of the
+fellows Master, yet wel he knew the Country, and the knight named. So
+crauing pardon that he had mistaken him, he returnes againe into the
+Church, and the servingman trudgeth about his assigned busines. Being
+come to the rest of the crew, he appointes one of them (whome he knew
+to be expert in deed), to take this matter in hand, for him self might
+not do it, least the servingman should return and know him, he
+schooled the rest likewise what euery man should do when the pinch
+came, and changing his cloke with one of his fellowes, walked by
+himselfe attending the feate: and every one being as ready, the
+apointed fellow makes his sally foorth, and comming to the Gentleman,
+calling him by his name, giues him the courtesie and embrace, likewise
+thanking him for good choere he had at his house, which he did with
+such seemly behaviour & protestation, as the Gentleman (thinking the
+other to be no lesse) used like action of kindenesse to him. Now as
+Country Gentlemen haue many visiters both with neere dwelling
+neighbours, and freends that iourney from farre, whom they can hardly
+remember, but some principall one that servus as countenance to the
+other: so hee not discrediting the cunning mates words, who still at
+every point alleaged his kinred to the knight neighbor to the
+Gentleman, which the poore serving man had (doubting no ill) reuealed
+before, and that both there and at his owne house in hawking time with
+that knight and other Gentlemen of the countrey he had liberally
+tasted his kindnes: desiring pardon that he had forgotten him, and
+offered him the curtesie of the citie. The Conny-catcher excused
+himselfe for that time, saying, at their next meeting hee would bestow
+it on him. Then seeming to have espyed his chaine, and commending the
+fairenes and woorkemanship thereof: saies, I pray ye sir take a litle
+counsel of a friend, it may be you will returne thankes for it. I
+wonder quoth he, you dare weare such a costly Jewell so open in sight,
+which is euen but a baite to entice bad men to adventure time and
+place for it, and no where sooner then in this cittie, where (I may
+say to you) are such a number of Connycatchers, Cossoners and such
+like, that a man can scarecly koepe any thing from them, they have so
+many reaches and sleights to beguile withall: which a very especiall
+freend of mine found too true not manye dayes since. Weereupon he
+tolde a very solemne tale, of villanies and knaveries in his own
+profession, whereby he reported his freeend had lost a watch of gold;
+shewing how closely his friend wore it in his bosome, and howe
+straungely it was gotten from him, that the gentleman by that
+discourse wared halfe affraid of his chaine.  And giving him many
+thankes for his good warning, presently takes the Chaine from about
+his necke, and tying it up fast in a handkercher put it up into his
+sleeue saying. If the Conny-catcher get it heere, let him not spare
+it. Not a little did the tretcher smile in his sleeue, hearing the
+rashe securitie, but in deede simplicitie of the Gentleman, and no
+sooner sawe he it put vp, but presently he counted it sure his owne,
+by the assistance of his complices, that lay in an ambuscado for the
+purpose: with embraces and courtesies on either side, the
+Conny-catcher departs, leaving the gentleman walking there still:
+whereat the crewe were not a little offended, that he still kept in
+the Church, and would not goe abroad. Well, at length (belike
+remembring some businesse) the Gentleman taking leave of an other that
+talked with him, hasted to go forth at the furthest west doore of
+Paules, which he that had talked with him, and gave him such counsell
+perceiuing, hied out of the other doore, and got to the entrance ere
+hee came foorth, the rest following the gentleman at an inche. As hee
+was stepping out, the other stept in, and let fall a key, hauing his
+hat so low ouer his eyes, that he could not well discerne his face,
+and stooping to take up the keye, kept the Gentleman from going
+backward or forward, by reason his legge was ouer the threshold. The
+formost Conny-catcher behind, pretending a quarrell vnto him that
+stooped, rapping out an oth, and drawing his dagger, saide: Doe I
+meete the villaine? Nay, he shall not scape me now, and so made offer
+to strike him.
+
+The gentleman at his standing up, seeing it was he that gaue him such
+good counsaile, and pretended himselfe his verie friend, but neuer
+imagining this traine was made for him: stept in his defence, when the
+other following tript vp his heeles: so that hee and his counsellour
+were downe together, and two more uppon them, striking with their
+daggers verie eagerly, marry indeed the gentleman had most of the
+blowes, and both his handkercher with the chaine, and also his pursse
+with three and fiftie shillings in it, were taken out of his pocket in
+this strugling, euen by then man that himself defended.
+
+It was maruellous to behold, how not regarding the Villaines wordes
+uttered before in the Church, nor thinking uppon the charge about him
+(which after hee had thus treacherouslye lost unwittingly): he stands
+pacifiyng them that were not discontented, but onely to beguile
+him. But they vowing that they would presently go for their weapons,
+and so to the field, told the Gentleman he laboured but in vaine, for
+fight they must and would, and so going downe by Paules Chaine, left
+the gentleman made a Conny going up toward Fleet-street, sorry for his
+new Counseller and freend, and wishing him good lucke in the fight:
+which in deede was with nothing but wine pots, for ioy of their late
+gotten bootie. Neere to Saint Dunstones church the Gentleman remembred
+himself, and feeling his pocket so light had suddenly more greefe at
+his hart, then euer happen to him or any man againe. Backe he comes to
+see if hee could espye anye of them, but they were farre inoughe from
+him: God send him better hap when he goes next a wooing, and that this
+his losse may bee a warning to others.
+
+How a cunning knaue got a Truncke well stuffed with linen and certaine
+parcels of plate out of a Cittizens house, and how the Master of the
+house holpe the deceiuer to carry away his owne goods.
+
+Within the Cittie of London, dwelleth a worldly man, who hath very
+great dealing in his trade, and his shoppe very well frequented with
+customers: had such a shrewd mischance of late by a Conny-catcher, as
+may well serue for an example to others least they haue the like. A
+cunning villaine, that had long time haunted this Cittizens house, and
+gotten many a cheat which he carryed away safely: made it his custome
+when hee wanted money, to helpe him selfe euer where hee had so often,
+diuers things he had which were neuer mist, especially such as
+appertained to the Cittizens trade, but when anye were found wanting,
+they could not deuise which way they were gone, so pollitiquely this
+fellow alwayes behaued himselfe, well knew hee what times of greatest
+businesse this Cittizen had in his trade, and when the shop is moft
+stored with Chapmen: then would he step up the stares (for there was
+and is another doore to the house besides that which entreth into the
+shoppe) and what was next hand came euer away with. One time above the
+rest, in an evening about Candlemas, when day light shuts in about
+five of the clocke, hee watched to doe some feate in the house, and
+seeing the mistresse goe foorth with her maide, the goodman and his
+folkes very busie in the shop: up the staires he goes as he was wonte
+to doo, and lifting up the latch of the hall portall doore, saw no
+body neere to trouble him, when stepping into the next chamber, where
+the Cittizen and his Wife usually lay, at the beds feete there stood a
+handsome truncke, wherein was verye good linnen, a faire gilte Salte,
+two silver French bowles for Wine, two silver drinking pots, a stone
+Jugge covered with silver, and a doosen of silver spoones. This
+truncke hee brings to the stayres head, and making fast the doore,
+againe, drawes it downe the steppes so softlye as hee could, for it
+was so bigge and heavy, as he could not easilie carry it, hauing it
+out at the doore, unseene of anye neighbour or any body else, he stood
+strugling with it to lift it up on the stall, which by reason of the
+weight trobled him very much. The goodman comming foorth of his shop,
+to bid a customer or two farwell, made the fellowe affraide he should
+now bee taken for all togither: but calling his wittes together to
+escape if he could, he stoode gazing up at the signe belonging to the
+house, as though hee were desirous to know what signe it was: which
+the Cittizen perceiving, came to him and asked him what he sought for?
+I looke for the signe of the blew bell sir, quoth the fellowe, where a
+gentleman hauing taken a chamber for this tearme time, hath sent me
+hether with this his Troncke of apparrell: quoth the Citizen I know no
+such signe in this street, but in the next (naming it) there is such a
+one indeed, and there dwelleth one that letteth foorth Chambers to
+Gentlemen.  Truly sir quoth the fellowe, thats the house I should goe
+to, I pray you sir lend me your hand, but to help the Trunck on my
+back, for I thinking to ease me a while vpon your stall, set it
+shorte, and now I can hardly get it vp againe. The Cittizen not
+knowing his owne Trunke, but indeede neuer thinking on any such
+notable deceite: helps him vp with the Trunke, and so sends him away
+roundly with his owne goods. When the Truncke was mist, I leaue to
+your conceits what housholde greefe there was on all sides, especially
+the goodman himselfe, who remembring how he helpt the fellow vp with a
+Trunke, perceiued that heereby hee had beguiled himselfe, and loste
+more then in haste hee should recouer againe. Howe this may admonish
+others, I leaue to the iudgement of the indifferent opinion, that see
+when honest meaning is so craftily beleagerd, as good foresight must
+bee vsed to preuent such daungers.
+
+How a Broker was cunningly ouer-reached by as craftie a knaue as
+himselfe, and brought in danger of the Gallowes.
+
+It hath beene vsed as a common by-word, a craftie knaue needeth no
+Broker, whereby it should appeare that there can hardlie bee a
+craftier knaue than a Broker. Suspend your iudgements till you haue
+heard this Discourse ensuing, and then as you please, censure both the
+one and the other.
+
+A Ladie of the Countrie sent vp a seruant whome she might well put in
+trust, to prouide hir of a gowne answerable to such directions as she
+had giuen him, which was of good price, as may appear by the outside
+and lace, whereto doubtlesse was euerie other thing agreeable: for the
+Tayler had seuenteen yards of the best black satten could be got for
+monie, and so much golde lace, beside spangles, as valued thirteene
+pound, what else was beside I know not, but let it suffice, thus much
+was lost, and therefore let vs to the manner bow.
+
+The satten and the lace being brought to the Tayler that should make
+the gowne, and spread abroade on the shop boord to be measured,
+certaine good fellowes of the Conny-catching profession chanced to go
+by, who seeing so rich lace, and so excellent good satten, began to
+commune with themselues how they might make some purchase of what they
+had seene: and quickly it was to bee done or not at al. As euer in a
+crew of this quality, there is some one more ingenious and politique
+then the rest, or at least wise that couets to make himselfe more
+famous then the rest: so this instant was there one in this companie
+that did sweare his cunning should deepelie deceiue him, but he would
+haue both the lace and satten, When hauing laid the plot with his
+companions, how and which waie their helpe might stand them in stead,
+this they proceeded.
+
+Well noted they the seruing-man that stood in the shoppe with the
+Tailer, and gathered by his diligent attendance, that he had some
+charge of the gowne there to be made, wherefore by him must they worke
+their trecherie intended, and vse him as an instrument to beguile
+himselfe. One of them sitting in a seate nere vnto the Tailers stall,
+could easily heare the talke that passed betweene the seruing-man and
+the Tayler, where among other communication, it was concluded that the
+gowne should be made of the selfe same fashion in euery point, as
+another Ladies was who then lay in the citie, and that measure being
+taken by her, the same would sirlie serue the Lady for whome the gowne
+was to bee made: now the seruingman intended to go speake with the
+Ladie, and uppon a token agreed betweene them (which he careleslie
+spake so lowd, that the Conny-catcher heard it) he would as her
+leisure serued, certifie that Tailer, and he should bring the stuffe
+with him, to haue the Ladies opinion both of the one and the other.
+
+The seruingman being gone about his affaires, the subtill mate that
+has listned to all their talke, acquaints his fellows both with the
+determination and token appointed for the Tailers comming to the
+Lady. The guide and leader to all the rest for villany, though there
+was no one but was better skilde in such matters then honestie: he
+appoints that one of them should go to the tauerne, which was not
+farre off, & laying two fagots on the fire in a roome by himselfe, and
+a quarte of wine filled for countenance of the treacherie: another of
+that crue should giue atteudance on him, as if hee were his maister,
+being bare headed, and sir humblie answering at euery word. To the
+tauern goes this counterfet gentleman, and his seruant waiting on him,
+where euery thing was performed as us before rehearsed. When the
+master knaue calling the drawer, demanded if there dwelt neere at hand
+a skillfull Tailer, that could make a suite of veluet for himselfe,
+marry it was to be doone with very great speed.
+
+The Drawer named the Tailer that we now speake of, & upon the drawers
+commending his cunning, the man in all hast was sent for to a
+gentleman, for who he must make a sute of veluet foorthwith. Upon
+talke had of the stuffe, how much was to be bought of everything
+appertayning thereto: he must immediatly take measure of this
+counterfet gentleman, because he knew not when to returne that waye
+againe, afterward they would go to the Mercers. As the Tailer was
+taking measure on him bare headed, as if he had bin a substantiall
+gentleman indeed, the craftie mate had cunningly gotten his pursse out
+of his pocket, at the one string whereof was fastened a little key,
+and at the other his signet ring: This bootie he was sure of all
+readie, whether he should get any thing els or no of the mischiefe
+intended, stepping to the window he cuts the ring from the pursse, and
+by his supposed man (rounding him in the eare) sendes it to the
+plot-layer of this knauerie, minding to traine the tailer along with
+him, as it were to the mercers, while he the meane time tooke order
+for the other matter. Afterward speaking alowde to his man, Sirrha,
+quoth hee, dispatch what I bad you, and about foure of the clock meet
+me in Paules, by that time I hope the tailer and I shall have
+dispacht. To Cheapside goeth the honest Tailer with this notorious
+dissembler, not missing his pursse for the space of two houres after,
+in lesse then halfe which time the satten and golde lace was gotten
+likewise by the other villain from the Taylers house in this order.
+
+Being sure the Tayler should bee kept absent, hee sends another mate
+home to his house, who abused his servants with this devise: that the
+ladies man had met their master abroad, and had him to the other Ladie
+to take measure of her, and least they should delaye the time too
+long, hee was sent for the satten and lace, declaring the token
+appointed, and with all giving their masters signet ring for better
+confirmation of his message, The servants could doe no lesse then
+deliuer it, being commanded (as they supposed) by so credible
+testimony: neither did the leasure of anie one serue to goe with the
+the messenger, who seemed an honest young Gentleman and carried no
+cause of distrust in his countenance: wherefore they delivered him the
+lace and satten folded up together as it was, and desired him to will
+their master to make some speede home, both for cutting out of worke,
+and other occassions.
+
+To a Broker fit for their purpose, goes this deceiuer with the satten
+lace, who knowing well they could not come honestly by it, nor anie
+thing else hee bought of that crew, as often before he had dealt much
+with them: either gaue them not so much as they would haue, or at
+least as they iudged they could haue in another place, for which the
+ring-leader of this coosnage, vowed in his mind to be reuenged on the
+Broker. The master knaue who had spent two houres and more in vaine
+with the Tailer, and would not like of anie veluet he saw, when he
+percieued that he mist his purse, and could not deuise how or where he
+had lost it, shewed himselfe verie sorrie for his mishap, and said in
+the morning he would send the veluet home to his house, for he knew
+where to speed of better then anie he had seene in the shops. Home
+goes the Tailer verie sadly, where he was entertained with a greater
+mischance, for there was the Ladies seruing-man swearing and stamping,
+that he had not seen their master since the morning they parted,
+neither had hee sent for the satten and lace, but when the seruantes
+insisted their innocencie, beguiled both with the true token
+rehearsed, and their masters ring, it exceedeth my cunning to set
+downe answerable wordes to this exceeding griefe and amazement on
+their part, but most of al the honest Tailer, who sped the better by
+the Brokers wilfulnes, as afterward it happened, which made him the
+better brooke the losse of his purse. That night all means were used
+that could bee, both to the Mercers, brokers, goldsmiths, goldfiners,
+& such like, where happily such things doe come to bee solde: but all
+was in vaine, the onely helpe came by the inuenter of this villanie,
+who scant sleeping all night, in regard of the brokers extreme
+gaining, both by him and those of his profession: the next morning he
+came to the Tailers house, at what time hee espied him with the Ladies
+seruing-man, comming forth of the doores, and into the tauern he went
+to report what a mishap hee had upon the sending for him thether the
+daie before.
+
+As he was but newly entered his sadde discourie, in comes the partie
+offended with the broker, and hauing heard all (whereof none could
+make better report than himselfe) he takes the tailer and seruing-man
+aside, and pretending great griefe for both their causes, demands what
+they would thinke him worthy of that could help them to their good
+againe. On condition to meete with such a friend, offer was made of
+fiue pound, and after sundrie speeches passing between them alone, be
+seeming that he would would worke the recouerie thereof by arte, and
+they premising not to disclose the man that did the good, he drew
+forth a little booke out of his bosome, whether it was latine or
+english it skilled not, for hee could not reade a word on it, then
+desiring them to spare him alone a while, they shoulde perceiue what
+hee woulde doe for them. Their heartes encouraged with some good hope,
+kept all his wordes secret to themselues: and not long had they sitten
+absent out of the roome, but he called them in againe and seeming as
+though he had been a scholler in deed, sayd he found by his figure
+that a broker in such a place had their goods lost, and in such a
+place of the house they should finde it, bidding them go thether with
+all speed, and as they found his wordes, so (with referring to
+themselues how they came to knowledge therof) to meet him there againe
+in the euening, and reward him as he had deserued.
+
+Awaie in hast goes the Tailor and the seruing-man, and entering the
+house with the Constable, found them in the place where hee that
+reueald it, knew the broker alwaie laid such gotten goods. Of their
+ioy againe, I leaue you to coniecture, and thinke you see the broker
+with a good paire of bolts on his heele, readie to take his farewell
+of the worlde in a halter, when time shall serue. The counterfet
+cunning man, and artificial conny-catcher, as I heard, was paide his
+fiue poundes that night. Thus one craftie knaue beguiled another, let
+each take heed of dealing with anie such kind of people.
+
+FINIS.
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Third And Last Part Of
+Conny-Catching. (1592), by R. G.
+
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