I will listen or not as I choose.

I am used to words.

But see that we are not left alone." The tirewoman pricked up her ears.

Clorinda saw her in the glass.
"Attend to thy business if thou dost not want a box o' the ear," she said in a tone which made the woman start.
"You would not be left alone with the gentleman, Madam ?" faltered Mistress Margery.
"If he comes to boast of conquests," said Mistress Clorinda, looking at her straight again and drawing down her black brows, "I will play as cleverly as he.

He cannot boast greatly of one whom he never makes his court to but in the presence of a kinswoman of ripe years.