Epigraph
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[per] represents a symbol which is a conventional abbreviation for “per”
[ver] represents a scribal abbreviation in the quoted document
Dedication
To help ‘mend his Native Country, lamentably tattered, both
in the upper-Leather and sole, with all the
honest stitches he can take.
And as willing never to be paid for his work, by Old English
wonted pay.
It is his trade to patch all the year long, gratis.
Therefore I pray Gentlemen keep your purses.