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| committer | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 04:48:54 -0700 |
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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 Works of John Dryden, Vol. 6 (of 18) + Limberham; Oedipus; Troilus and Cressida; The Spanish Friar + +Author: John Dryden + +Editor: Walter Scott + +Release Date: August 6, 2005 [EBook #16456] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE WORKS OF JOHN DRYDEN *** + + + + +Produced by Jonathan Ingram, Fred Robinson and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net + + + + + + +</pre> + + +<p class="ctr"><br />THE</p> +<h1 class="nomarg">WORKS</h1> +<p class="ctr">OF</p> +<h2 class="nomarg">JOHN DRYDEN,</h2> +<p class="ctr">NOW FIRST COLLECTED</p> +<h3 class="nomarg"><i>IN EIGHTEEN VOLUMES.</i></h3> + +<p class="ctr"><br />ILLUSTRATED</p> +<h3 class="nomarg">WITH NOTES,</h3> +<p class="ctr">HISTORICAL, CRITICAL, AND EXPLANATORY,</p> +<p class="ctr">AND</p> +<h3 class="nomarg">A LIFE OF THE AUTHOR,</h3> +<p class="ctr">BY</p> +<h3 class="nomarg">WALTER SCOTT, <span class="smcap">Esq.</span></h3> + +<h3>VOL. VI.</h3> +<h3>LONDON:</h3> + +<p class="ctr">PRINTED FOR WILLIAM MILLER, ALBEMARLE STREET,<br /> +BY JAMES BALLANTYNE AND CO. EDINBURGH.</p> + +<h3>1808.</h3> +<hr class="large" /> + +<h2>CONTENTS</h2> +<p class="ctr">OF</p> +<h3 class="nomarg">VOLUME SIXTH.</h3> + +<div><ul class="toc"> +<li><a href="#page_001">Limberham, or the Kind Keeper, a Comedy</a></li> +<li><ul class="toc"><li><a href="#page_006">Epistle Dedicatory to Lord Vaughan</a></li> +<li><a href="#page_012">[Text of the play]</a></li></ul></li> + +<li style="margin-top: 1em;"><a href="#page_115">Œdipus, a Tragedy</a></li> +<li><ul class="toc"><li><a href="#page_124">Preface</a></li> +<li><a href="#page_128">[Text of the play]</a></li></ul></li> + +<li style="margin-top: 1em;"><a href="#page_227">Troilus and Cressida, or Truth found too late, a Tragedy</a></li> +<li><ul class="toc"><li><a href="#page_231">Epistle Dedicatory to the Earl of Sunderland</a></li> +<li><a href="#page_238">Preface</a></li> +<li><a href="#page_267">[Text of the play]</a></li></ul></li> + +<li style="margin-top: 1em;"><a href="#page_365">The Spanish Friar, or the Double Discovery</a></li> +<li><ul class="toc"><li><a href="#page_373">Epistle Dedicatory to Lord Haughton</a></li> +<li><a href="#page_382">[Text of the play]</a></li></ul></li> +</ul></div> + +<hr class="large" /> +<div><span class="pgnm">001</span><a id="page_001" name="page_001"></a></div> + +<h2 class="chap">LIMBERHAM;</h2> +<p class="ctr">OR,</p> +<h3 class="nomarg">THE KIND KEEPER.</h3> + +<h3>A<br /> +COMEDY.</h3> + +<div class="ctr"> +<table class="ctr" summary="Epigram"> +<tr><td><p class="epigram"><span class="Greek" title="Kên me phagês epi rhizan, homôs eti karpophorêsô."> +Κην +με +φαγης +επι +ριζαν, +ομως +ετι +καρποφορησω. +</span></p> +<p class="citation"><span class="Greek" title="Anthologia Dentera."> +Ανθολογια +Δεντιρα. +</span></p></td></tr> +</table> +<table class="ctr" summary="Epigram"> +<tr><td><p class="epigram"><i>Hic nuptarum insanit amoribus; hic meretricum:<br /> +<span class="i1">Omnes hi metuunt versus; odere poetas.</span></i></p> +<p class="citation smcap">Horat.</p></td></tr> +</table></div> + +<div><span class="pgnm">003</span><a id="page_003" name="page_003"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">LIMBERHAM.</h3> + +<p>The extreme indelicacy of this play would, in the present times +furnish ample and most just grounds for the unfavourable reception +it met with from the public. But in the reign of Charles II. many +plays were applauded, in which the painting is, at least, as coarse as +that of Dryden. "Bellamira, or the Mistress," a gross translation by +Sir Charles Sedley of Terence's "Eunuchus," had been often represented +with the highest approbation. But the satire of Dryden was +rather accounted too personal, than too loose. The character of Limberham +has been supposed to represent Lauderdale, whose age +and uncouth figure rendered ridiculous his ungainly affectation of +fashionable vices. Mr Malone intimates a suspicion, that Shaftesbury +was the person levelled at, whose lameness and infirmities made the +satire equally poignant. In either supposition, a powerful and +leading nobleman was offended, to whose party all seem to have +drawn, whose loose conduct, in that loose age, exposed them to be +duped like the hero of the play. It is a singular mark of the +dissolute manners of those times, that an audience, to whom matrimonial +infidelity was nightly held out, not only as the most venial +of trespasses, but as a matter of triumphant applause, were +unable to brook any ridicule, upon the mere transitory connection +formed betwixt the keeper and his mistress. Dryden had spared +neither kind of union; and accordingly his opponents exclaimed, +"That he lampooned the court, to oblige his friends in the city, and +ridiculed the city, to secure a promising lord at court; exposed +the kind keepers of Covent Garden, to please the cuckolds of +Cheapside; and drolled on the city Do-littles, to tickle the Covent-Garden +Limberhams<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_1-1">[1]</a>." Even Langbaine, relentless as he is in criticism, +seems to have considered the condemnation of Limberham +as the vengeance of the faction ridiculed.</p> + +<p>"In this play, (which I take to be the best comedy of his) he +so much exposed the keeping part of the town, that the play was +stopt when it had but thrice appeared on the stage; but the +<span class="pgnm">004</span><a id="page_004" name="page_004"></a> +author took a becoming care, that the things that offended on +the stage, were either altered or omitted in the press. One of +our modern writers, in a short satire against keeping, concludes +thus:</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>"Dryden, good man, thought keepers to reclaim,</p> +<p>Writ a kind satire, call'd it Limberham.</p> +<p>This all the herd of letchers straight alarms;</p> +<p>From Charing-Cross to Bow was up in arms:</p> +<p>They damn'd the play all at one fatal blow,</p> +<p>And broke the glass, that did their picture show."</p> +</div> + +<p>Mr Malone mentions his having seen a MS. copy of this play, +found by Lord Bolingbroke among the sweepings of Pope's study, +in which there occur several indecent passages, not to be found +in the printed copy. These, doubtless, constituted the castrations, +which, in obedience to the public voice, our author expunged from +his play, after its condemnation. It is difficult to guess what could +be the nature of the indecencies struck out, when we consider those +which the poet deemed himself at liberty to retain.</p> + +<p>The reader will probably easily excuse any remarks upon this +comedy. It is not absolutely without humour, but is so disgustingly +coarse, as entirely to destroy that merit. Langbaine, with his +usual anxiety of research, traces back a few of the incidents to the +novels of Cinthio Giraldi, and to those of some forgotten French +authors.</p> + +<p>Plays, even of this nature, being worth preservation, as containing +genuine traces of the manners of the age in which they +appear, I cannot but remark the promiscuous intercourse, which, +in this comedy and others, is represented as taking place betwixt +women of character, and those who made no pretensions to it. Bellamira +in Sir Charles Sedley's play, and Mrs Tricksy in the following +pages, are admitted into company with the modest female +characters, without the least hint of exception or impropriety. +Such were actually the manners of Charles the II.d's time, where +we find the mistresses of the king, and his brothers, familiar +in the highest circles. It appears, from the evidence in the case +of the duchess of Norfolk for adultery, that Nell Gwyn was living +with her Grace in familiar habits; her society, doubtless, paving +the way for the intrigue, by which the unfortunate lady lost her +rank and reputation<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_1-2">[2]</a>. It is always symptomatic of a total decay +of morals, where female reputation neither confers dignity, +<span class="pgnm">005</span><a id="page_005" name="page_005"></a> +nor excites pride, in its possessor; but is consistent with her +mingling in the society of the libertine and the profligate.</p> + +<p>Some of Dryden's libellers draw an invidious comparison betwixt +his own private life and this satire; and exhort him to</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>Be to vices, which he practised, kind.</p> +</div> + +<p class="noind">But of the injustice of this charge on Dryden's character, we +have spoken fully elsewhere. Undoubtedly he had the licence +of this, and his other dramatic writings, in his mind, when he wrote +the following verses; where the impurity of the stage is traced to +its radical source, the debauchery of the court:</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>Then courts of kings were held in high renown,</p> +<p>Ere made the common brothels of the town.</p> +<p>There virgins honourable vows received,</p> +<p>But chaste, as maids in monasteries, lived.</p> +<p>The king himself, to nuptial rites a slave,</p> +<p>No bad example to his poets gave;</p> +<p>And they, not bad, but in a vicious age,</p> +<p>Had not, to please the prince, debauched the stage.</p> +<p class="citation"><i>Wife of Bath's Tale.</i></p> +</div> + +<p>"Limberham" was acted at the Duke's Theatre in Dorset-Garden; +for, being a satire upon a court vice, it was deemed peculiarly +calculated for that play-house. The concourse of the citizens thither +is alluded to in the prologue to "Marriage-a-la-Mode." Ravenscroft +also, in his epilogue to the "Citizen turned Gentleman," +acted at the same theatre, disowns the patronage of the courtiers +who kept mistresses, probably because they Constituted the minor +part of his audience:</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>From the court party we hope no success;</p> +<p>Our author is not one of the noblesse,</p> +<p>That bravely does maintain his miss in town,</p> +<p>Whilst my great lady is with speed sent down,</p> +<p>And forced in country mansion-house to fix.</p> +<p>That miss may rattle here in coach-and-six.</p> +</div> + +<p>The stage for introducing "Limberham" was therefore judiciously +chosen, although the piece was ill received, and withdrawn after +being only thrice represented. It was printed in 1678.</p> + +<div class="ftnt"> +<p>Footnotes:</p> +<ol> +<li><a id="Limbe_1-1" name="Limbe_1-1"></a>Reasons for Mr Bayes changing his Religion, p. 24.</li> +<li><a id="Limbe_1-2" name="Limbe_1-2"></a>See State Trials, vol. viii. pp. 17, 18.</li> +</ol></div> + +<div><span class="pgnm">006</span><a id="page_006" name="page_006"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">TO +THE RIGHT HONOURABLE +JOHN, +LORD VAUGHAN, &c<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_2-1">[1]</a>.</h3> + +<p class="noind smcap">My Lord,</p> + +<p>I cannot easily excuse the printing of a play at so +unseasonable a time<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_2-2">[2]</a>, when the great plot of the +nation, like one of Pharaoh's lean kine, has devoured +<span class="pgnm">007</span><a id="page_007" name="page_007"></a> +its younger brethren of the stage. But however +weak my defence might be for this, I am sure I +should not need any to the world for my dedication +to your lordship; and if you can pardon my presumption +in it, that a bad poet should address himself +to so great a judge of wit, I may hope at least +to escape with the excuse of Catullus, when he writ +to Cicero:</p> + +<div class="poem pi"> +<p>Gratias tibi maximas Catullus</p> +<p>Agit, pessimus omnium, poeta;</p> +<p>Tanto pessimus omnium poeta,</p> +<p>Quanto tu optimns omnium patronus.</p> +</div> + +<p>I have seen an epistle of Flecknoe's to a nobleman, +who was by some extraordinary chance a scholar; +(and you may please to take notice by the way, how +natural the connection of thought is betwixt a bad +poet and Flecknoe) where he begins thus: <i>Quatuordecim +jam elapsi sunt anni,</i> &c.; his Latin, it seems, +not holding out to the end of the sentence: but he +endeavoured to tell his patron, betwixt two languages +which he understood alike, that it was fourteen +years since he had the happiness to know him. +It is just so long, (and as happy be the omen of dulness +to me, as it is to some clergymen and statesmen!) +since your lordship has known, that there is a +worse poet remaining in the world, than he of scandalous +memory, who left it last<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_2-3">[3]</a>. I might enlarge +<span class="pgnm">008</span><a id="page_008" name="page_008"></a> +upon the subject with my author, and assure you, +that I have served as long for you, as one of the +patriarchs did for his Old-Testament mistress; but I +leave those flourishes, when occasion shall serve, for +a greater orator to use, and dare only tell you, that +I never passed any part of my life with greater +satisfaction or improvement to myself, than those +years which I have lived in the honour of your +lordship's acquaintance; if I may have only the +time abated when the public service called you to +another part of the world, which, in imitation of +our florid speakers, I might (if I durst presume upon +the expression) call the <i>parenthesis of my life</i>.</p> + +<p>That I have always honoured you, I suppose I +need not tell you at this time of day; for you know +I staid not to date my respects to you from that +title which now you have, and to which you bring +a greater addition by your merit, than you receive +from it by the name; but I am proud to let others +know, how long it is that I have been made happy +by my knowledge of you; because I am sure it will +give me a reputation with the present age, and with +posterity. And now, my lord, I know you are +afraid, lest I should take this occasion, which lies +<span class="pgnm">009</span><a id="page_009" name="page_009"></a> +so fair for me, to acquaint the world with some of +those excellencies which I have admired in you; +but I have reasonably considered, that to acquaint +the world, is a phrase of a malicious meaning; for +it would imply, that the world were not already +acquainted with them. You are so generally known +to be above the meanness of my praises, that you +have spared my evidence, and spoiled my compliment: +Should I take for my common places, your +knowledge both of the old and the new philosophy; +should I add to these your skill in mathematics +and history; and yet farther, your being conversant +with all the ancient authors of the Greek and Latin +tongues, as well as with the modern—I should tell +nothing new to mankind; for when I have once +but named you, the world will anticipate all my +commendations, and go faster before me than I can +follow. Be therefore secure, my lord, that your own +fame has freed itself from the danger of a panegyric; +and only give me leave to tell you, that I value the +candour of your nature, and that one character of +friendliness, and, if I may have leave to call it, kindness +in you, before all those other which make you +considerable in the nation<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_2-4">[4]</a>.</p> + +<p>Some few of our nobility are learned, and therefore +I will not conclude an absolute contradiction +in the terms of nobleman and scholar; but as the +<span class="pgnm">010</span><a id="page_010" name="page_010"></a> +world goes now, 'tis very hard to predicate one upon +the other; and 'tis yet more difficult to prove, that +a nobleman can be a friend to poetry. Were it not +for two or three instances in Whitehall, and in the +town, the poets of this age would find so little encouragement +for their labours, and so few understanders, +that they might have leisure to turn pamphleteers, +and augment the number of those abominable +scribblers, who, in this time of licence, abuse the +press, almost every day, with nonsense, and railing +against the government.</p> + +<p>It remains, my lord, that I should give you some +account of this comedy, which you have never seen; +because it was written and acted in your absence, +at your government of Jamaica. It was intended +for an honest satire against our crying sin of <i>keeping</i>; +how it would have succeeded, I can but guess, +for it was permitted to be acted only thrice. The +crime, for which it suffered, was that which is objected +against the satires of Juvenal, and the epigrams +of Catullus, that it expressed too much of the vice +which it decried. Your lordship knows what answer +was returned by the elder of those poets, whom +I last mentioned, to his accusers:</p> + +<div class="poem pi"> +<p>—castum esse decet pium poetam</p> +<p>Ipsum. Versiculos nihil necesse est:</p> +<p>Qui tum denique habent salem ac leporem</p> +<p>Si sint molliculi et parum pudici.</p> +</div> + +<p class="noind">But I dare not make that apology for myself; and +therefore have taken a becoming care, that those +things which offended on the stage, might be either +altered, or omitted in the press; for their authority +is, and shall be, ever sacred to me, as much absent +as present, and in all alterations of their fortune, +who for those reasons have stopped its farther appearance +on the theatre. And whatsoever hindrance +it has been to me in point of profit, many of my +<span class="pgnm">011</span><a id="page_011" name="page_011"></a> +friends can bear me witness, that I have not once +murmured against that decree. The same fortune +once happened to Moliere, on the occasion of his +"Tartuffe;" which, notwithstanding, afterwards has +seen the light, in a country more bigot than ours, +and is accounted amongst the best pieces of that +poet. I will be bold enough to say, that this comedy +is of the first rank of those which I have written, +and that posterity will be of my opinion. It +has nothing of particular satire in it; for whatsoever +may have been pretended by some critics in +the town, I may safely and solemnly affirm, that +no one character has been drawn from any single +man; and that I have known so many of the same +humour, in every folly which is here exposed, as +may serve to warrant it from a particular reflection. +It was printed in my absence from the town, this +summer, much against my expectation; otherwise +I had over-looked the press, and been yet more careful, +that neither my friends should have had the +least occasion of unkindness against me, nor my +enemies of upbraiding me; but if it live to a second +impression, I will faithfully perform what has been +wanting in this. In the mean time, my lord, I recommend +it to your protection, and beg I may keep +still that place in your favour which I have hitherto +enjoyed; and which I shall reckon as one of the +greatest blessings which can befall,</p> + +<p class="sig i1">My Lord,</p> +<p class="sig i2">Your Lordship's most obedient,</p> +<p class="sig i3">Faithful servant,</p> +<p class="sig i4 smcap">John Dryden.</p> + +<div class="ftnt"> +<p>Footnotes:</p> +<ol> +<li><a id="Limbe_2-1" name="Limbe_2-1"></a>John, Lord Vaughan, was the eldest surviving son of Richard, +Earl of Carbery, to which title he afterwards succeeded. He was +a man of literature, and president of the Royal Society from 1686 +to 1689. Dryden was distinguished by his patronage as far back +as 1664, being fourteen years before the acting of this play. Lord +Vaughan had thus the honour of discovering and admiring the +poet's genius, before the public applause had fixed his fame; and, +probably better deserved the panegyric here bestowed, than was +Usual among Dryden's patrons. He wrote a recommendatory +copy of verses, which are prefixed to "The Conquest of Granada." +Mr Malone informs us, that this accomplished nobleman died at +Chelsea, on 16th January, 1712-13.</li> + +<li><a id="Limbe_2-2" name="Limbe_2-2"></a>The great popish plot, that scene of mystery and blood, broke +out in August 1678.</li> + +<li><a id="Limbe_2-3" name="Limbe_2-3"></a>Flecknoe was a Roman Catholic priest, very much addicted to +scribbling verses. His name has been chiefly preserved by our +author's satire of "Mack-Flecknoe;" in which he has depicted +Shadwell, as the literary son and heir of this wretched poetaster. A +few farther particulars concerning him may be found prefixed to +that poem. Flecknoe, from this dedication, appears to have been +just deceased. The particular passage referred to has not been +discovered; even Langbaine had never seen it: but Mr Malone points +out a letter of Flecknoe to the Cardinal Barberini, whereof the +first sentence is in Latin, and the next in English. Our author, in +an uncommon strain of self-depreciation, or rather to give a neat +turn to his sentence, has avouched himself to be a worse poet than +Flecknoe. But expressions of modesty in a dedication, like those +of panegyric, are not to be understood literally. As in the latter, +Dryden often strains a note beyond <i>Ela</i>, so, on the present occasion, +he has certainly sounded the very base string of humility. Poor +Flecknoe, indeed, seems to have become proverbial, as the worst +of poets. The Earl of Dorset thus begins a satire on Edward +Howard:<br /><br /> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>Those damned antipodes to common sense,</p> +<p>Those toils to Flecknoe, pr'ythee, tell me whence</p> +<p>Does all this mighty mass of dulness spring,</p> +<p>Which in such loads thou to the stage dost bring?</p> +</div> +</li> + +<li><a id="Limbe_2-4" name="Limbe_2-4"></a>There is a very flat and prosaic imitation of this sentiment in +the Duke of Buckingham's lines to Pope:<br /><br /> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>And yet so wondrous, so sublime a thing</p> +<p>As the great Iliad, scarce could make me sing;</p> +<p>Except I justly could at once commend</p> +<p>A good companion, and as firm a friend;</p> +<p>One moral, or a mere well-natured deed,</p> +<p>Does all desert in sciences exceed.</p> +</div> + +<p>Thus prose may be humbled, as well as exalted; into poetry.</p></li> +</ol></div> + +<div><span class="pgnm">012</span><a id="page_012" name="page_012"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">PROLOGUE.</h3> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>True wit has seen its best days long ago;</p> +<p>It ne'er looked up, since we were dipt in show;</p> +<p>When sense in doggrel rhimes and clouds was lost,</p> +<p>And dulness flourished at the actor's cost.</p> +<p>Nor stopt it here; when tragedy was done,</p> +<p>Satire and humour the same fate have run,</p> +<p>And comedy is sunk to trick and pun.</p> +<p>Now our machining lumber will not sell,</p> +<p>And you no longer care for heaven or hell;</p> +<p>What stuff will please you next, the Lord can tell.</p> +<p>Let them, who the rebellion first began</p> +<p>To wit, restore the monarch, if they can;</p> +<p>Our author dares not be the first bold man.</p> +<p>He, like the prudent citizen, takes care,</p> +<p>To keep for better marts his staple ware;</p> +<p>His toys are good enough for Sturbridge fair.</p> +<p>Tricks were the fashion; if it now be spent,</p> +<p>'Tis time enough at Easter, to invent;</p> +<p>No man will make up a new suit for Lent.</p> +<p>If now and then he takes a small pretence,</p> +<p>To forage for a little wit and sense,</p> +<p>Pray pardon him, he meant you no offence.</p> +<p>Next summer, Nostradamus tells, they say,</p> +<p>That all the critics shall be shipped away,</p> +<p>And not enow be left to damn a play.</p> +<p>To every sail beside, good heaven, be kind;</p> +<p>But drive away that swarm with such a wind,</p> +<p>That not one locust may be left behind!</p> +</div> + +<div><span class="pgnm">014</span><a id="page_014" name="page_014"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">DRAMATIS PERSONÆ</h3> + +<p class="dpl"><span class="smcap">Aldo,</span> <i>an honest, good-natured, free-hearted old gentleman +of the town.</i></p> +<p class="dpl"><span class="smcap">Woodall,</span> <i>his son, under a false name; bred abroad, +and now returned from travel.</i></p> +<p class="dpl"><span class="smcap">Limberham,</span> <i>a tame, foolish keeper, persuaded by +what is last said to him, and changing next word.</i></p> +<p class="dpl"><span class="smcap">Brainsick,</span> <i>a husband, who, being well conceited of +himself, despises his wife: vehement and eloquent, as +he thinks; but indeed a talker of nonsense.</i></p> +<p class="dpl"><span class="smcap">Gervase, Woodall's</span> <i>man: formal, and apt to +give good counsel.</i></p> +<p class="dpl"><span class="smcap">Giles, Woodall's</span> <i>cast servant.</i><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dpl"><span class="smcap">Mrs Saintly,</span> <i>an hypocritical fanatic, landlady of the +boarding-house.</i></p> +<p class="dpl"><span class="smcap">Mrs Tricksy,</span> <i>a termagant kept mistress.</i></p> +<p class="dpl"><span class="smcap">Mrs Pleasance,</span> <i>supposed daughter to</i> <span class="smcap">Mrs Saintly:</span><i> +Spiteful and satirical; but secretly in love +with</i> <span class="smcap">Woodall.</span></p> +<p class="dpl"><span class="smcap">Mrs Brainsick.</span></p> +<p class="dpl"><span class="smcap">Judith,</span> <i>a maid of the house.</i></p> + +<p>SCENE—<i>A Boarding-house in Town.</i></p> + +<div><span class="pgnm">015</span><a id="page_015" name="page_015"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">LIMBERHAM;</h3> +<p class="ctr">OR, THE</p> +<h3 class="nomarg">KIND KEEPER.</h3> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT I.<br /> +SCENE I.—<i>An open Garden-House; a table in it, +and chairs.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Woodall</span> and <span class="cnm">Gervase.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Bid the footman receive the trunks and +portmantua; and see them placed in the lodgings +you have taken for me, while I walk a turn here in +the garden.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> It is already ordered, sir. But they are +like to stay in the outer-room, till the mistress of +the house return from morning exercise.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> What, she's gone to the parish church, it +seems, to her devotions!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> No, sir; the servants have informed me, +that she rises every morning, and goes to a private +meeting-house; where they pray for the government, +and practise against the authority of it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> And hast thou trepanned me into a tabernacle +of the godly? Is this pious boarding-house a +place for me, thou wicked varlet?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> According to human appearance, I must +confess, it is neither fit for you, nor you for it; but +<span class="pgnm">016</span><a id="page_016" name="page_016"></a> +have patience, sir; matters are not so bad as they +may seem. There are pious bawdy-houses in the +world, or conventicles would not be so much frequented. +Neither is it impossible, but a devout +fanatic landlady of a boarding-house may be a bawd.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Ay, to those of her own church, I grant +you, Gervase; but I am none of those.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> If I were worthy to read you a lecture in +the mystery of wickedness, I would instruct you +first in the art of seeming holiness: But, heaven be +thanked, you have a toward and pregnant genius +to vice, and need not any man's instruction; and I +am too good, I thank my stars, for the vile employment +of a pimp.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Then thou art even too good for me; a +worse man will serve my turn.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> I call your conscience to witness, how +often I have given you wholesome counsel; how often +I have said to you, with tears in my eyes, master, +or master Aldo—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Mr Woodall, you rogue! that is my <i>nomme +de guerre.</i> You know I have laid by Aldo, for fear +that name should bring me to the notice of my father.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> Cry you mercy, good Mr Woodall. How +often have I said,—Into what courses do you run! +Your father sent you into France at twelve years +old; bred you up at Paris, first in a college, and +then at an academy: At the first, instead of running +through a course of philosophy, you ran through +all the bawdy-houses in town: At the latter, instead +of managing the great horse, you exercised on +your master's wife. What you did in Germany, I +know not; but that you beat them all at their own +weapon, drinking, and have brought home a goblet +of plate from Munster, for the prize of swallowing a +gallon of Rhenish more than the bishop.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">017</span><a id="page_017" name="page_017"></a> +<span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Gervase, thou shalt be my chronicler; thou +losest none of my heroic actions.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> What a comfort are you like to prove to your +good old father! You have run a campaigning among +the French these last three years, without his leave; +and now he sends for you back, to settle you in +the world, and marry you to the heiress of a rich +gentleman, of whom he had the guardianship, yet +you do not make your application to him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Pr'ythee, no more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> You are come over, have been in town +above a week <i>incognito</i>, haunting play-houses, and +other places, which for modesty I name not; and +have changed your name from Aldo to Woodall, for +fear of being discovered to him: You have not so +much as inquired where he is lodged, though you +know he is most commonly in London: And lastly, +you have discharged my honest fellow-servant Giles, +because—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Because he was too saucy, and was ever +offering to give me counsel: Mark that, and tremble +at his destiny.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> I know the reason why I am kept; +because you cannot be discovered by my means; for +you took me up in France, and your father knows +me not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I must have a ramble in the town: When +I have spent my money, I will grow dutiful, see +my father, and ask for more. In the mean time, I +have beheld a handsome woman at a play, I am +fallen in love with her, and have found her easy: +Thou, I thank thee, hast traced her to her lodging +in this boarding-house, and hither I am come, to +accomplish my design.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> Well, heaven mend all. I hear our landlady's +voice without; [<span class="sdm">Noise.</span>] and therefore shall defer +my counsel to a fitter season.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">018</span><a id="page_018" name="page_018"></a> +<span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Not a syllable of counsel: The next grave +sentence, thou marchest after Giles. Woodall's my +name; remember that.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter Mrs <span class="cnm">Saintly.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg">Is this the lady of the house?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> Yes, Mr Woodall, for want of a better, as +she will tell you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> She has a notable smack with her! I believe +zeal first taught the art of kissing close.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Saluting her.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> You are welcome, gentleman. Woodall +is your name?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I call myself so.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> You look like a sober discreet gentleman; +there is grace in your countenance.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Some sprinklings of it, madam: We must +not boast.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Verily, boasting is of an evil principle.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Faith, madam—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> No swearing, I beseech you. Of what +church are you?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Why, of Covent-Garden church, I think.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> How lewdly and ignorantly he answers! +[<span class="sdm">Aside</span>] She means, of what religion are you?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> O, does she so?—Why, I am of your religion, +be it what it will; I warrant it a right one: +I'll not stand with you for a trifle; presbyterian, +independent, anabaptist, they are all of them too +good for us, unless we had the grace to follow them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> I see you are ignorant; but verily, you +are a new vessel, and I may season you. I hope +you do not use the parish-church.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Faith, madam—cry you mercy; (I forgot +again) I have been in England but five days.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> I find a certain motion within me to this +young man, and must secure him to myself, ere he +<span class="pgnm">019</span><a id="page_019" name="page_019"></a> +see my lodgers. [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>]—O, seriously, I had forgotten; +your trunk and portmantua are standing in the +hall; your lodgings are ready, and your man may +place them, if he please, while you and I confer together.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Go, Gervase, and do as you are directed. +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Ger.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> In the first place, you must know, we are +a company of ourselves, and expect you should live +conformably and lovingly amongst us.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> There you have hit me. I am the most +loving soul, and shall be conformable to all of you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> And to me especially. Then, I hope, you +are no keeper of late hours.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> No, no, my hours are very early; betwixt +three and four in the morning, commonly.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> That must be amended; but, to remedy +the inconvenience, I will myself sit up for you. I +hope, you would not offer violence to me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I think I should not, if I were sober.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Then, if you were overtaken, and should +offer violence, and I consent not, you may do your +filthy part, and I am blameless.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] I think the devil's in her; she has +given me the hint again.—Well, it shall go hard, +but I will offer violence sometimes; will that content +you?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> I have a cup of cordial water in my closet, +which will help to strengthen nature, and to carry +off a debauch: I do not invite you thither; but the +house will be safe a-bed, and scandal will be avoided.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Hang scandal; I am above it at those times.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> But scandal is the greatest part of the offence; +you must be secret. And I must warn you +of another thing; there are, besides myself, two +more young women in my house.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">020</span><a id="page_020" name="page_020"></a> +<span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] That, besides herself, is a cooling +card.—Pray, how young are they?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> About my age: some eighteen, or twenty, +or thereabouts.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Oh, very good! Two more young women +besides yourself, and both handsome?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> No, verily, they are painted outsides; you +must not cast your eyes upon them, nor listen to +their conversation: You are already chosen for a +better work.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I warrant you, let me alone: I am chosen, I.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> They are a couple of alluring wanton minxes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Are they very alluring, say you? very wanton?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> You appear exalted, when I mention those +pit-falls of iniquity.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Who, I exalted? Good faith, I am as sober, +a melancholy poor soul!—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> I see this abominable sin of swearing is +rooted in you. Tear it out; oh, tear it out! it will +destroy your precious soul.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I find we two shall scarce agree: I must +not come to your closet when I have got a bottle; +for, at such a time, I am horribly given to it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Verily, a little swearing may be then allowable: +You may swear you love me, it is a lawful +oath; but then, you must not look on harlots.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I must wheedle her, and whet my courage +first on her; as a good musician always preludes before +a tune. Come, here is my first oath.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Embracing her.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Aldo.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> How now, Mrs Saintly! what work have +we here towards?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Aldo, my own natural father, as I +live! I remember the lines of that hide-bound face: +<span class="pgnm">021</span><a id="page_021" name="page_021"></a> +Does he lodge here? If he should know me, I am +ruined.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Curse on his coming! he has disturbed us. +[<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Well, young gentleman, I shall take a time +to instruct you better.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> You shall find me an apt scholar.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> I must go abroad upon some business; but +remember your promise, to carry yourself soberly, +and without scandal in my family; and so I leave +you to this gentleman, who is a member of it.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Saint.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Before George, a proper fellow, +and a swinger he should be, by his make! the rogue +would humble a whore, I warrant him.—You are +welcome, sir, amongst us; most heartily welcome, +as I may say.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> All's well: he knows me not.—Sir, your +civility is obliging to a stranger, and may befriend +me, in the acquaintance of our fellow-lodgers.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Hold you there, sir: I must first understand +you a little better; and yet, methinks, you +should be true to love.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Drinking and wenching are but slips of +youth: I had those two good qualities from my father.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Thou, boy! Aha, boy! a true Trojan, I +warrant thee! [<span class="sdm">Hugging him.</span>] Well, I say no more; +but you are lighted into such a family, such food +for concupiscence, such <i>bona roba's</i>!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> One I know, indeed; a wife: But <i>bona +roba's</i>, say you?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> I say, <i>bona roba's</i>, in the plural number.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Why, what a Turk Mahomet shall I be! +No, I will not make myself drunk with the conceit +of so much joy: The fortune's too great for mortal +man; and I a poor unworthy sinner.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Would I lie to my friend? Am I a man? +Am I a christian? There is that wife you mentioned, +<span class="pgnm">022</span><a id="page_022" name="page_022"></a> +a delicate little wheedling devil, with such an appearance +of simplicity; and with that, she does so +undermine, so fool her conceited husband, that he +despises her!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Just ripe for horns: His destiny, like a +Turk's, is written in his forehead.<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_3-1">[1]</a></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Peace, peace! thou art yet ordained for +greater things. There is another, too, a kept mistress, +a brave strapping jade, a two-handed whore!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> A kept mistress, too! my bowels yearn to +her already: she is certain prize.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> But this lady is so termagant an empress! +and he is so submissive, so tame, so led a keeper, and as +proud of his slavery as a Frenchman. I am confident +he dares not find her false, for fear of a quarrel +with her; because he is sure to be at the charges +of the war. She knows he cannot live without her, +and therefore seeks occasions of falling out, to make +him purchase peace. I believe she is now aiming +at a settlement.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Might not I ask you one civil question? +How pass you your time in this noble family? For +I find you are a lover of the game, and I should be +loth to hunt in your purlieus.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> I must first tell you something of my condition. +I am here a friend to all of them; I am their +<i>factotum</i>, do all their business; for, not to boast, +sir, I am a man of general acquaintance: There is +no news in town, either foreign or domestic, but I +have it first; no mortgage of lands, no sale of houses, +but I have a finger in them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">023</span><a id="page_023" name="page_023"></a> +<span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Then, I suppose, you are a gainer by your +pains.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> No, I do all <i>gratis</i>, and am most commonly +a loser; only a buck sometimes from this good +lord, or that good lady in the country: and I eat +it not alone, I must have company.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Pray, what company do you invite?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Peace, peace, I am coming to you: Why, +you must know I am tender-natured; and if any +unhappy difference have arisen betwixt a mistress +and her gallant, then I strike in, to do good offices +betwixt them; and, at my own proper charges, +conclude the quarrel with a reconciling supper.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I find the ladies of pleasure are beholden +to you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Before George, I love the poor little devils. +I am indeed a father to them, and so they call me: +I give them my counsel, and assist them with my +purse. I cannot see a pretty sinner hurried to prison +by the land-pirates, but nature works, and I +must bail her; or want a supper, but I have a couple +of crammed chickens, a cream tart, and a bottle +of wine to offer her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Sure you expect some kindness in return.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Faith, not much: Nature in me is at low +water-mark; my body's a jade, and tires under me; +yet I love to smuggle still in a corner; pat them +down, and pur over them; but, after that, I can do +them little harm.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Then I'm acquainted with your business: +You would be a kind of deputy-fumbler under me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> You have me right. Be you the lion, to +devour the prey; I am your jackall, to provide it +for you: There will be a bone for me to pick.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Your humility becomes your age. For my +part, I am vigorous, and throw at all.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">024</span><a id="page_024" name="page_024"></a> +<span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> As right as if I had begot thee! Wilt thou +give me leave to call thee son?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> With all my heart.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Ha, mad son!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Mad daddy!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Your man told me, you were just returned +from travel: What parts have you last visited?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I came from France.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Then, perhaps, you may have known an +ungracious boy of mine there.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Like enough: Pray, what's his name?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> George Aldo.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I must confess I do know the gentleman; +satisfy yourself, he's in health, and upon his return.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> That's some comfort: But, I hear, a very +rogue, a lewd young fellow.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> The worst I know of him is, that he loves +a wench; and that good quality he has not stolen. +[<span class="sdm">Music at the Balcony over head: Mrs <span class="cnm">Tricksy</span> and +<span class="cnm">Judith</span> appear.</span>]—Hark! There's music above.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> 'Tis at my daughter Tricksy's lodging; the +kept mistress I told you of, the lass of mettle. But +for all she carries it so high, I know her pedigree; +her mother's a sempstress in Dog-and-Bitch yard, and +was, in her youth, as right as she is.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Then she's a two-piled punk, a punk of +two descents.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> And her father, the famous cobler, who +taught Walsingham to the black-birds. How stand +thy affections to her, thou lusty rogue?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> All on fire: A most urging creature!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Peace! they are beginning.</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<span class="pgnm">025</span><a id="page_025" name="page_025"></a> +<h4>A SONG.</h4> + +<h5>I.</h5> + +<div class="stanza pi"> +<p>'Gainst keepers we petition,</p> +<p class="i1">Who would inclose the common:</p> +<p>'Tis enough to raise sedition</p> +<p class="i1">In the free-born subject, woman.</p> +<p>Because for his gold,</p> +<p class="i1">I my body have sold,</p> +<p>He thinks I'm a slave for my life;</p> +<p class="i1">He rants, domineers,</p> +<p>He swaggers and swears,</p> +<p class="i1">And would keep me as bare as his wife.</p> +</div> + +<h5>II.</h5> + +<div class="stanza pi"> +<p>'Gainst keepers we petition, &c.</p> +<p class="i1">'Tis honest and fair,</p> +<p>That a feast I prepare;</p> +<p class="i1">But when his dull appetite's o'er,</p> +<p>I'll treat with the rest</p> +<p class="i1">Some welcomer guest,</p> +<p>For the reckoning was paid me before.</p> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> A song against keepers! this makes well +for us lusty lovers.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> [<span class="sdm">Above.</span>] Father, father Aldo!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Daughter Tricksy, are you there, child? +your friends at Barnet are all well, and your dear +master Limberham, that noble Hephestion, is returning +with them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> And you are come upon the spur before, to +acquaint me with the news.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Well, thou art the happiest rogue in a +kind keeper! He drank thy health five times, <i>supernaculum</i>,<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_3-2">[2]</a> +to my son Brain-sick; and dipt my daughter +<span class="pgnm">026</span><a id="page_026" name="page_026"></a> +Pleasance's little finger, to make it go down +more glibly:<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_3-3">[3]</a> And, before George, I grew tory +rory, as they say, and strained a brimmer through +the lily-white smock, i'faith.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> You will never leave these fumbling tricks, +father, till you are taken up on suspicion of manhood, +and have a bastard laid at your door: I am +sure you would own it, for your credit.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Before George, I should not see it starve, +for the mother's sake: For, if she were a punk, she +was good-natured, I warrant her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Well, if ever son was blest with a +hopeful father, I am.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Who is that gentleman with you?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> A young <i>monsieur</i> returned from travel; a +lusty young rogue; a true-milled whoremaster, with +the right stamp. He is a fellow-lodger, incorporate +in our society: For whose sake he came hither, let +him tell you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">027</span><a id="page_027" name="page_027"></a> +<span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Are you gloating already? then +there's hopes, i'faith.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> You seem to know him, father.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Know him! from his cradle—What's your +name?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Woodall.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ald.</span> Woodall of Woodall; I knew his father; +we were contemporaries, and fellow-wenchers in +our youth.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] My honest father stumbles into +truth, in spite of lying.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> I was just coming down to the garden-house, +before you came.<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Tricksy</span> descends.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> I am sorry I cannot stay to present my son, +Woodall, to you; but I have set you together, that's +enough for me.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Alone.</span>] 'Twas my study to avoid my father, +and I have run full into his mouth: and yet I +have a strong hank upon him too; for I am privy +to as many of his virtues, as he is of mine. After +all, if I had an ounce of discretion left, I should +pursue this business no farther: but two fine women +in a house! well, it is resolved, come what will on +it, thou art answerable for all my sins, old Aldo—</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Tricksy,</span> with a box of essences.</p> + +<p class="dlg">Here she comes, this heir-apparent of a sempstress, +and a cobler! and yet, as she's adorned, she looks +like any princess of the blood.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Salutes her.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] What a difference there is between +this gentleman, and my feeble keeper, Mr Limberham! +he's to my wish, if he would but make the +least advances to me.—Father Aldo tells me, sir, you +are a traveller: What adventures have you had in +foreign countries?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I have no adventures of my own, can deserve +your curiosity; but, now I think on it, I can +<span class="pgnm">028</span><a id="page_028" name="page_028"></a> +tell you one that happened to a French cavalier, a +friend of mine, at Tripoli.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> No wars, I beseech you: I am so weary of +father Aldo's Loraine and Crequi.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Then this is as you would desire it, a +love-adventure. This French gentleman was made a slave +to the Dey of Tripoli; by his good qualities, gained +his master's favour; and after, by corrupting an +eunuch, was brought into the seraglio privately, +to see the Dey's mistress.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> This is somewhat; proceed, sweet sir.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> He was so much amazed, when he first beheld +her leaning over a balcony, that he scarcely +dared to lift his eyes, or speak to her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] I find him now.—But what followed +of this dumb interview?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> The nymph was gracious, and came down +to him; but with so goddess-like a presence, that +the poor gentleman was thunder-struck again.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> That savoured little of the monsieur's gallantry, +especially when the lady gave him encouragement.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood</span> The gentleman was not so dull, but he +understood the favour, and was presuming enough +to try if she were mortal. He advanced with more +assurance, and took her fair hands: was he not too +bold, madam? and would not you have drawn back +yours, had you been in the sultana's place?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> If the sultana liked him well enough to +come down into the garden to him, I suppose she +came not thither to gather nosegays.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Give me leave, madam, to thank you, in +my friend's behalf, for your favourable judgment. +[<span class="sdm">Kisses her hand.</span>] He kissed her hand with an exceeding +transport; and finding that she prest his at +the same instant, he proceeded with a greater eagerness +to her lips—but, madam, the story would be +<span class="pgnm">029</span><a id="page_029" name="page_029"></a> +without life, unless you give me leave to act the +circumstances.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Kisses her.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Well, I'll swear you are the most natural +historian!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> But now, madam, my heart beats with joy, +when I come to tell you the sweetest part of his +adventure: opportunity was favourable, and love +was on his side; he told her, the chamber was more +private, and a fitter scene for pleasure. Then, looking +on her eyes, he found them languishing; he saw +her cheeks blushing, and heard her voice faultering +in a half-denial: he seized her hand with an amorous +ecstacy, and—<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Takes her hand.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Hold, sir, you act your part too far. Your +friend was unconscionable, if he desired more favours +at the first interview.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> He both desired and obtained them, madam, +and so will—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> [<span class="sdm">A noise within.</span>] Heavens! I hear Mr Limberham's +voice: he's returned from Barnet.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I'll avoid him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> That's impossible; he'll meet you. Let me +think a moment:—Mrs Saintly is abroad, and cannot +discover you: have any of the servants seen you?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> None.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Then you shall pass for my Italian merchant +of essences: here's a little box of them just +ready.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> But I speak no Italian; only a few broken +scraps, which I picked from Scaramouch and Harlequin +at Paris.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> You must venture that: When we are rid +of Limberham, 'tis but slipping into your chamber, +throwing off your black perriwig, and riding suit, +and you come out an Englishman. No more; he's +here.</p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="pgnm">030</span><a id="page_030" name="page_030"></a> +Enter <span class="cnm">Limberham.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Why, how now, Pug? Nay, I must lay +you over the lips, to take hansel of them, for my +welcome.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> [<span class="sdm">Putting him back.</span>] Foh! how you smell +of sweat, dear!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> I have put myself into this same unsavoury +heat, out of my violent affection to see thee, Pug. +Before George, as father Aldo says, I could not live +without thee; thou art the purest bed-fellow, though +I say it, that I did nothing but dream of thee all +night; and then I was so troublesome to father Aldo, +(for you must know he and I were lodged together) +that, in my conscience, I did so kiss him, +and so hug him in my sleep!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> I dare be sworn 'twas in your sleep; for, +when you are waking, you are the most honest, +quiet bed-fellow, that ever lay by woman.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Well, Pug, all shall be amended; I am +come home on purpose to pay old debts. But who +is that same fellow there? What makes he in our +territories?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> You oaf you, do you not perceive it is +the Italian seignior, who is come to sell me essences?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Is this the seignior? I warrant you, it is +he the lampoon was made on.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Sings the tune of Seignior, and ends with,<br /><span style="font-style: normal;">Ho, ho.</span></span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Pr'ythee leave thy foppery, that we may +have done with him. He asks an unreasonable +price, and we cannot agree. Here, seignior, take +your trinkets, and be gone.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Taking the box.</span>] <i>A dio, seigniora.</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Hold, pray stay a little, seignior; a thing +is come into my head of the sudden.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> What would you have, you eternal sot? +the man's in haste.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">031</span><a id="page_031" name="page_031"></a> +<span class="cnm">Limb.</span> But why should you be in your frumps, +Pug, when I design only to oblige you? I must +present you with this box of essences; nothing can +be too dear for thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Pray let him go, he understands no English.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Then how could you drive a bargain with +him, Pug?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Why, by signs, you coxcomb.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Very good! then I'll first pull him by the +sleeve, that's a sign to stay. Look you, Mr Seignior, +I would make a present of your essences to +this lady; for I find I cannot speak too plain to +you, because you understand no English. Be not +you refractory now, but take ready money: that's +a rule.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> <i>Seignioro, non intendo Inglese.</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> This is a very dull fellow! he says, he +does not intend English. How much shall I offer +him, Pug?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> If you will present me, I have bidden him +ten guineas.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> And, before George, you bid him fair. +Look you, Mr Seignior, I will give you all these. +1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. Do you see, Seignior?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> <i>Seignior, si.</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Lo' you there, Pug, he does see. Here, +will you take me at my word?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Shrugging up</span>] <i>Troppo poco, troppo poco.</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> <i>A poco, a poco!</i> why a pox on you too, +an' you go to that. Stay, now I think on't, I can +tickle him up with French; he'll understand that +sure. <i>Monsieur, voulez vous prendre ces dix guinees, +pour ces essences? mon foy c'est assez.</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> <i>Chi vala, amici: Ho di casa! taratapa, taratapa, +eus, matou, meau!</i>—[<span class="sdm">To her.</span>] I am at the +end of my Italian; what will become of me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">032</span><a id="page_032" name="page_032"></a> +<span class="cnm">Trick.</span> [<span class="sdm">To him.</span>] Speak any thing, and make it +pass for Italian; but be sure you take his money.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> <i>Seignior, io non canno takare ten guinneo +possibilmentè; 'tis to my losso.</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> That is, Pug, he cannot possibly take ten +guineas, 'tis to his loss: Now I understand him; +this is almost English.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> English! away, you fop: 'tis a kind of +<i>lingua Franca</i>, as I have heard the merchants call +it; a certain compound language, made up of all +tongues, that passes through the Levant.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> This <i>lingua</i>, what you call it, is the most +rarest language! I understand it as well as if it were +English; you shall see me answer him: <i>Seignioro, +stay a littlo, and consider wello, ten guinnio is monyo, +a very considerablo summo.</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Come, you shall make it twelve, and he +shall take it for my sake.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Then, <i>Seignioro,</i> for <i>Pugsakio, addo two +moro: je vous donne bon advise: prenez vitement: +prenez me à mon mot.</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> <i>Io losero multo; ma pergagnare il vestro +costumo, datemi hansello.</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> There is both <i>hansello</i> and <i>guinnio; tako, +tako,</i> and so good-morrow.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Good-morrow, seignior; I like your spirits +very well; pray let me have all your essence you +can spare.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Come, <i>Puggio,</i> and let us retire in <i>secreto</i>, +like lovers, into our <i>chambro</i>; for I grow <i>impatiento +—bon matin, monsieur, bon matin et bon jour.</i><br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Limberham</span> and <span class="cnm">Tricksy.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Well, get thee gone, 'squire Limberhamo, +for the easiest fool I ever knew, next my naunt of +fairies in the Alchemist<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_3-4">[4]</a>. I have escaped, thanks +<span class="pgnm">033</span><a id="page_033" name="page_033"></a> +to my mistress's <i>lingua França</i>: I'll steal to my +chamber, shift my perriwig and clothes; and then, +with the help of resty Gervase, concert the business +of the next campaign. My father sticks in my +stomach still; but I am resolved to be Woodall with +him, and Aldo with the women.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span><br /></p> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT II. SCENE I.</h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Woodall</span> and <span class="cnm">Gervase.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Hitherto, sweet Gervase, we have carried +matters swimmingly. I have danced in a net before +my father, almost check-mated the keeper, retired +to my chamber undiscovered, shifted my habit, +and am come out an absolute monsieur, to allure +the ladies. How sits my <i>chedreux</i>?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> O very finely! with the locks combed +down, like a mermaid's on a sign-post. Well, you +think now your father may live in the same house +with you till doomsday, and never find you; or, +when he has found you, he will be kind enough not +to consider what a property you have made of him. +My employment is at an end; you have got a better +pimp, thanks to your filial reverence.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Pr'ythee, what should a man do with such +a father, but use him thus? besides, he does journey-work +under me; 'tis his humour to fumble, and +my duty to provide for his old age.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> Take my advice yet; down o' your marrow +bones, and ask forgiveness; espouse the wife +he has provided for you; lie by the side of a wholesome +woman, and procreate your own progeny in +the fear of heaven.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I have no vocation to it, Gervase: A man +of sense is not made for marriage; 'tis a game, +<span class="pgnm">034</span><a id="page_034" name="page_034"></a> +which none but dull plodding fellows can play at +well; and 'tis as natural to them, as crimp is to a +Dutchman.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> Think on't, however, sir; debauchery is +upon its last legs in England: Witty men began the +fashion, and now the fops are got into it, 'tis time +to leave it.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Aldo.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Son Woodall, thou vigorous young rogue, +I congratulate thy good fortune; thy man has told +me the adventure of the Italian merchant.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Well, they are now retired together, like +Rinaldo and Armida, to private dalliance; but +we shall find a time to separate their loves, and +strike in betwixt them, daddy. But I hear there's +another lady in the house, my landlady's fair daughter; +how came you to leave her out of your catalogue?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> She's pretty, I confess, but most damnably +honest; have a care of her, I warn you, for she's +prying and malicious.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> A twang of the mother; but I love to +graff on such a crab-tree; she may bear good fruit +another year.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> No, no, avoid her; I warrant thee, young +Alexander, I will provide thee more worlds to conquer.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] My old master would fain pass +for Philip of Macedon, when he is little better than +Sir Pandarus of Troy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> If you get this keeper out of doors, father, +and give me but an opportunity—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Trust my diligence; I will smoke him +out, as they do bees, but I will make him leave his +honey-comb.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] If I had a thousand sons, none of +<span class="pgnm">035</span><a id="page_035" name="page_035"></a> +the race of the Gervases should ever be educated by +thee, thou vile old Satan!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Away, boy! Fix thy arms, and whet, like +the lusty German boys, before a charge: He shall +bolt immediately.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> O, fear not the vigorous five-and-twenty.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Hold, a word first: Thou saidst my son +was shortly to come over.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> So he told me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Thou art my bosom friend.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Of an hour's acquaintance.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Be sure thou dost not discover my frailties +to the young scoundrel: 'Twere enough to make +the boy my master. I must keep up the dignity +of old age with him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Keep but your own counsel, father; for +whatever he knows, must come from you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> The truth on't is, I sent for him over; +partly to have married him, and partly because his +villainous bills came so thick upon me, that I grew +weary of the charge.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> He spared for nothing; he laid it on, sir, +as I have heard.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Peace, you lying rogue!—Believe me, sir, +bating his necessary expences of women, which I +know you would not have him want, in all things +else, he was the best manager of your allowance; +and, though I say it—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] That should not say it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> The most hopeful young gentleman in +Paris.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Report speaks otherwise; and, before +George, I shall read him a wormwood lecture, +when I see him. But, hark, I hear the door unlock; +the lovers are coming out: I'll stay here, to +wheedle him abroad; but you must vanish.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">036</span><a id="page_036" name="page_036"></a> +<span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Like night and the moon, in the Maid's +Tragedy: I into mist; you into day<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_3-5">[5]</a>.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Wood.</span> and <span class="cnm">Ger.</span></span><br /></p> + +<h4 class="scn">SCENE changes to <span class="cnm">Limberham's</span> apartment.</h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Limberham</span> and <span class="cnm">Tricksy.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Nay, but dear sweet honey Pug, forgive +me but this once: It may be any man's case, when +his desires are too vehement.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Let me alone; I care not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> But then thou wilt not love me, Pug.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> How now, son Limberham? There's no +quarrel towards, I hope.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> You had best tell now, and make yourself +ridiculous.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> She's in passion: Pray do you moderate +this matter, father Aldo.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Father Aldo! I wonder you are not ashamed +to call him so; you may be his father, if the +truth were known.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Before George, I smell a rat, son Limberham. +I doubt, I doubt, here has been some great +omission in love affairs.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> I think all the stars in heaven have conspired +my ruin. I'll look in my almanack.—As I +hope for mercy, 'tis cross day now.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Hang your pitiful excuses. 'Tis well known +what offers I have had, and what fortunes I might +have made with others, like a fool as I was, to throw +<span class="pgnm">037</span><a id="page_037" name="page_037"></a> +away my youth and beauty upon you. I could +have had a young handsome lord, that offered me +my coach and six; besides many a good knight and +gentleman, that would have parted with their own +ladies, and have settled half they had upon me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Ay, you said so.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> I said so, sir! Who am I? Is not my word +as good as yours?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> As mine gentlewoman? though I say it, +my word will go for thousands.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> The more shame for you, that you have +done no more for me: But I am resolved I'll not +lose my time with you; I'll part.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Do, who cares? Go to Dog-and-Bitch yard, +and help your mother to make footmen's shirts.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> I defy you, slanderer; I defy you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Nay, dear daughter!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> I defy her too.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Nay, good son!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Let me alone: I'll have him cudgelled by +my footman.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Saintly.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Bless us! what's here to do? My neighbours +will think I keep a nest of unclean birds here.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> You had best peach now, and make her +house be thought a bawdy-house!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> No, no: While you are in it, you will secure +it from that scandal.—Hark hither, Mrs Saintly. +[<span class="sdm">Whispers.</span>]</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Do, tell, tell, no matter for that.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Who would have imagined you had been +such a kind of man, Mr Limberham! O heaven, O +heaven!<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> So, now you have spit your venom, and +the storm's over.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">038</span><a id="page_038" name="page_038"></a> +<span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> [<span class="sdm">Crying.</span>] That I should ever live to see +this day!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> To show I can live honest, in spite of all +mankind, I'll go into a nunnery, and that is my resolution.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Do not hinder her, good father Aldo; I +am sure she will come back from France, before she +gets half way over to Calais.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Nay, but son Limberham, this must not +be. A word in private;—you will never get such +another woman, for love nor money. Do but look +upon her; she is a mistress for an emperor.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Let her be a mistress for a pope, like a +whore of Babylon, as she is.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Would I were worthy to be a young man, +for her sake! She should eat pearls, if she would have +them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> She can digest them, and gold too. Let +me tell you, father Aldo, she has the stomach of an +ostrich.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Daughter Tricksy, a word with you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> I'll hear nothing: I am for a nunnery.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> I never saw a woman, before you, but first +or last she would be brought to reason. Hark you, +child, you will scarcely find so kind a keeper. What +if he has some impediment one way? Every body +is not a Hercules. You shall have my son Woodall, +to supply his wants; but, as long as he maintains +you, be ruled by him that bears the purse.</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<h4>LIMBERHAM SINGING.</h4> + +<div class="stanza pi"> +<p>I my own jailor was; my only foe,</p> +<p class="i1">Who did my liberty forego;</p> +<p>I was a prisoner, because I would be so.</p> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Why, look you now, son Limberham, is +this a song to be sung at such a time, when I am +<span class="pgnm">039</span><a id="page_039" name="page_039"></a> +labouring your reconcilement? Come, daughter Tricksy, +you must be ruled; I'll be the peace-maker.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> No, I'm just going.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> The devil take me, if I call you back.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> And his dam take me, if I return, except +you do.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> So, now you will part, for a mere punctilio! +Turn to him, daughter: Speak to her, son: Why +should you be so refractory both, to bring my gray +hairs with sorrow to the grave?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> I'll not be forsworn, I swore first;</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Thou art a forsworn man, however; for +thou sworest to love me eternally.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Yes, I was such a fool, to swear so.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> And will you have that dreadful oath lie +gnawing on your conscience?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Let him be damned; and so farewell for +ever.—[<span class="sdm">Going.</span>]</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Pug!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Did you call, Mr Limberham?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> It may be, ay; it may be, no.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Well, I am going to the nunnery; but, to +shew I am in charity, I'll pray for you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Pray for him! fy, daughter, fy; is that an +answer for a Christian?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> What did Pug say? will she pray for me? +Well, to shew I am in charity, she shall not pray +for me. Come back, Pug. But did I ever think +thou couldst have been so unkind to have parted +with me?<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Cries.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Look you, daughter, see how nature works +in him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> I'll settle two hundred a-year upon thee, +because thou said'st thou would'st pray for me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Before George, son Limberham, you will +spoil all, if you underbid so. Come, down with +your dust, man: What, shew a base mind, when a +fair lady's in question!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">040</span><a id="page_040" name="page_040"></a> +<span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Well, if I must give three hundred—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> No, it is no matter; my thoughts are on +a better place.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Come, there is no better place than little +London. You shall not part for a trifle. What, +son Limberham! four hundred a year is a square +sum, and you shall give it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> It is a round sum indeed; I wish a three-cornered +sum would have served her turn.—Why +should you be so pervicacious now, Pug? Pray take +three hundred. Nay, rather than part, Pug, it shall +be so.—[<span class="sdm">She frowns.</span>]</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> It shall be so, it shall be so: Come, now +buss, and seal the bargain.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> [<span class="sdm">Kissing him.</span>] You see what a good natured +fool I am, Mr Limberham, to come back into +a wicked world, for love of you.—You will see the +writings drawn, father?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Ay; and pay the lawyer too. Why, this +is as it should be! I'll be at the charge of the reconciling +supper.—[<span class="sdm">To her aside.</span>] Daughter, my son +Woodall is waiting for you.—Come away, son Limberham +to the temple.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> With all my heart, while she is in a good +humour: It would cost me another hundred, if I +should stay till Pug were in wrath again. Adieu, +sweet Pug.—[<span class="sdm">Exeunt <span class="cnm">Aldo,</span> and <span class="cnm">Limb.</span></span>]</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> That he should be so silly to imagine I +would go into a nunnery! it is likely; I have much +nun's flesh about me. But here comes my gentleman.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Woodall,</span> not seeing her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Now the wife's returned, and the daughter +too, and I have seen them both, and am more +distracted than before: I would enjoy all, and have +not yet determined with which I should begin. It +is but a kind of clergy-covetousness in me, to desire +so many; if I stand gaping after pluralities, one of +<span class="pgnm">041</span><a id="page_041" name="page_041"></a> +them is in danger to be made a <i>sine cure</i>—[<span class="sdm">Sees her.</span>] +O, fortune has determined for me. It is just here, +as it is in the world; the mistress will be served +before the wife.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> How now, sir, are you rehearsing your +<i>lingua Franca</i> by yourself, that you walk so pensively?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> No faith, madam, I was thinking of the +fair lady, who, at parting, bespoke so cunningly of +me all my essences.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> But there are other beauties in the house; +and I should be impatient of a rival: for I am apt +to be partial to myself, and think I deserve to be +preferred before them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Your beauty will allow of no competition; +and I am sure my love could make none.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Yes, you have seen Mrs Brainsick; she's a +beauty.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> You mean, I suppose, the peaking creature, +the married woman, with a sideling look, as +if one cheek carried more bias than the other?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Yes, and with a high nose, as visible as a +land-mark.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> With one cheek blue, the other red; just +like the covering of Lambeth Palace.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Nay, but her legs, if you could see them—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> She was so foolish to wear short petticoats, +and show them. They are pillars, gross enough to +support a larger building; of the Tuscan order, by +my troth.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> And her little head, upon that long neck, +shows like a traitor's skull upon a pole. Then, for +her wit—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> She can have none: There's not room +enough for a thought to play in.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> I think indeed I may safely trust you with +<span class="pgnm">042</span><a id="page_042" name="page_042"></a> +such charms; and you have pleased me with your +description of her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I wish you would give me leave to please +you better. But you transact as gravely with me as +a Spaniard; and are losing love, as he does Flanders: +you consider and demur, when the monarch +is up in arms, and at your gates<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_3-6">[6]</a>.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> But to yield upon the first summons, ere +you have laid a formal siege—To-morrow may +prove a luckier day to you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Believe me, madam, lovers are not to trust +to-morrow. Love may die upon our hands, or opportunity +be wanting; 'tis best securing the present +hour.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> No, love's like fruit; it must have time to +ripen on the tree; if it be green gathered, 'twill but +wither afterwards.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Rather 'tis like gun powder; that which +fires quickest, is commonly the strongest.—By this +burning kiss—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> You lovers are such froward children, ever +crying for the breast; and, when you have once +had it, fall fast asleep in the nurse's arms. And +with what face should I look upon my keeper after +it?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> With the same face that all mistresses look +upon theirs. Come, come.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> But my reputation!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Nay, that's no argument, if I should be so +base to tell; for women get good fortunes now-a-days, +by losing their credit, as a cunning citizen +does by breaking.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">043</span><a id="page_043" name="page_043"></a> +<span class="cnm">Trick.</span> But, I'm so shame-faced! Well, I'll go in, +and hide my blushes. +<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I'll not be long after you; for I think I +have hidden my blushes where I shall never find +them.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Re-enter <span class="cnm">Tricksy.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> As I live, Mr Limberham and father Aldo +are just returned; I saw them entering. My settlement +will miscarry, if you are found here: What +shall we do?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Go you into your bed-chamber, and leave +me to my fortune.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> That you should be so dull! their suspicion +will be as strong still: for what should make +you here?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> The curse on't is too, I bid my man tell +the family I was gone abroad; so that, if I am seen, +you are infallibly discovered.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Noise.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Hark, I hear them! Here's a chest which +I borrowed of Mrs Pleasance; get quickly into it, +and I will lock you up: there's nothing in't but +clothes of Limberham's, and a box of writings.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I shall be smothered.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Make haste, for heaven's sake; they'll +quickly be gone, and then—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> That <i>then</i> will make a man venture any +thing. +<span class="sdr">[He goes in, and she locks the chest.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Limberham</span> and <span class="cnm">Aldo.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Dost thou not wonder to see me come +again so quickly, Pug?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> No, I am prepared for any foolish freak of +yours: I knew you would have a qualm, when you +came to settlement.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Your settlement depends most absolutely +on that chest.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">044</span><a id="page_044" name="page_044"></a> +<span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Father Aldo, a word with you, for heaven's +sake.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> No, no, I'll not whisper. Do not stand in +your own light, but produce the keys, daughter.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Be not musty, my pretty St Peter, but +produce the keys. I must have the writings out, +that concern thy settlement.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Now I see you are so reasonable, I'll show +you I dare trust your honesty; the settlement shall +be deferred till another day.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> No deferring in these cases, daughter.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> But I have lost the keys.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> That's a jest! let me feel in thy pocket, +for I must oblige thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> You shall feel no where: I have felt already +and am sure they are lost.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> But feel again, the lawyer stays.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Well, to satisfy you, I will feel.—They are +not here—nor here neither.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[She pulls out her handkerchief, and the keys drop +after it: <span class="cnm">Limberham</span> takes them up.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Look you now, Pug! who's in the right? +Well, thou art born to be a lucky Pug, in spite of +thyself.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] O, I am ruined!—One word, I +beseech you, father Aldo.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Not a syllable. What the devil's in you, +daughter? Open, son, open.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aloud.</span>] It shall not be opened; I will +have my will, though I lose my settlement. Would +I were within the chest! I would hold it down, to +spite you. I say again, would I were within the +chest, I would hold it so fast, you should not open +it.—The best on't is, there's good inkle on the +top of the inside, if he have the wit to lay hold +on't.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">045</span><a id="page_045" name="page_045"></a> +<span class="cnm">Limb.</span> [<span class="sdm">Going to open it.</span>] Before George, I think +you have the devil in a string, Pug; I cannot open +it, for the guts of me. <i>Hictius doctius!</i> what's here +to do? I believe, in my conscience, Pug can conjure: +Marry, God bless us all good Christians!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Push hard, son.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> I cannot push; I was never good at pushing. +When I push, I think the devil pushes too. +Well, I must let it alone, for I am a fumbler. Here, +take the keys, Pug.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Then all's safe again.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Judith</span> and <span class="cnm">Gervase.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> Madam, Mrs Pleasance has sent for the +chest you borrowed of her. She has present occasion +for it; and has desired us to carry it away.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Well, that's but reason: If she must have +it, she must have it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick</span> Tell her, it shall be returned some time +to-day; at present we must crave her pardon, because +we have some writings in it, which must first +be taken out, when we can open it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Nay, that's but reason too: Then she must +not have it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> Let me come to't; I'll break it open, and +you may take out your writings.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> That's true: 'Tis but reasonable it should +be broken open.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Then I may be bound to make good the +loss.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> 'Tis unreasonable it should be broken open.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Before George, Gervase and I will carry it +away; and a smith shall be sent for to my daughter +Pleasance's chamber, to open it without damage.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Why, who says against it? Let it be carried; +I'm all for reason.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Hold; I say it shall not stir.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">046</span><a id="page_046" name="page_046"></a> +<span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> What? every one must have their own; <i>Fiat +justitia, aut ruat mundus.</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Ay, <i>fiat justitia,</i> Pug: She must have her +own; for <i>justitia</i> is Latin for justice.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Aldo</span> and <span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> lift at it.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> I think the devil's in't.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> There's somewhat bounces, like him, in't. +'Tis plaguy heavy; but we'll take t'other heave.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> [<span class="sdm">Taking hold of the chest.</span>] Then you shall +carry me too. Help, murder, murder!<br /> +<span class="sdr">[A confused gabbling among them.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter Mrs <span class="cnm">Saintly.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Verily, I think all hell's broke loose among +you. What, a schism in my family! Does this become +the purity of my house? What will the ungodly +say?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> No matter for the ungodly; this is all +among ourselves: For, look you, the business is +this. Mrs Pleasance has sent for this same business +here, which she lent to Pug; now Pug has +some private businesses within this business, which +she would take out first, and the business will not +be opened: and this makes all the business.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Verily, I am raised up for a judge amongst +you; and I say—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> I'll have no judge: it shall not go.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Why son, why daughter, why Mrs Saintly; +are you all mad? Hear me, I am sober, I am discreet; +let a smith be sent for hither, let him break +open the chest; let the things contained be taken +out, and the thing containing be restored.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Now hear me too, for I am sober and discreet; +father Aldo is an oracle: It shall be so.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Well, to show I am reasonable, I am content. +Mr Gervase and I will fetch an instrument +from the next smith; in the mean time, let the +<span class="pgnm">047</span><a id="page_047" name="page_047"></a> +chest remain where it now stands, and let every +one depart the chamber.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> That no violence be offered to the person +of the chest, in Pug's absence.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Then this matter is composed.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Now I shall have leisure to instruct +his man, and set him free, without discovery. +Come, Mr Gervase.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt all but <span class="cnm">Saintly.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> There is a certain motion put into my +mind, and it is of good. I have keys here, which a +precious brother, a devout blacksmith, made me, and +which will open any lock of the same bore. Verily, +it can be no sin to unlock this chest therewith, and +take from thence the spoils of the ungodly. I will +satisfy my conscience, by giving part thereof to the +hungry and the needy; some to our pastor, that he +may prove it lawful; and some I will sanctify to +my own use.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[She unlocks the chest, and <span class="cnm">Woodall</span> starts up.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Let me embrace you, my dear deliverer! +Bless us! is it you, Mrs Saintly? +<span class="sdr">[She shrieks.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> [<span class="sdm">Shrieking.</span>] Heaven of his mercy! Stop +thief, stop thief!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> What will become of me now?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> According to thy wickedness, shall it be +done unto thee. Have I discovered thy backslidings, +thou unfaithful man! thy treachery to me +shall be rewarded, verily; for I will testify against +thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Nay, since you are so revengeful, you +shall suffer your part of the disgrace; if you testify +against me for adultery, I shall testify against you +for theft: There's an eighth for your seventh.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Noise.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Verily, they are approaching: Return to +my embraces, and it shall be forgiven thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Thank you, for your own sake. Hark! +<span class="pgnm">048</span><a id="page_048" name="page_048"></a> +they are coming! cry thief again, and help to save +all yet.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Stop thief, stop thief!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Thank you for your own sake; but I fear +'tis too late.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Tricksy</span> and <span class="cnm">Limberham.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> [<span class="sdm">Entering.</span>] The chest open, and Woodall +discovered! I am ruined.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Why all this shrieking, Mrs Saintly?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Rushing him down.</span>] Stop thief, stop thief! +cry you mercy, gentleman, if I have hurt you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> [<span class="sdm">Rising.</span>] 'Tis a fine time to cry a man +mercy, when you have beaten his wind out of his +body.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> As I watched the chest, behold a vision +rushed out of it, on the sudden; and I lifted up +my voice, and shrieked.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> A vision, landlady! what, have we Gog +and Magog in our chamber?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> A thief, I warrant you, who had gotten +into the chest.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Most certainly a thief; for, hearing my +landlady cry out, I flew from my chamber to her +help, and met him running down stairs, and then +he turned back to the balcony, and leapt into the +street.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> I thought, indeed, that something held +down the chest, when I would have opened it:—But +my writings are there still, that's one comfort.—Oh +seignioro, are you here?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Do you speak to me, sir?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> This is Mr Woodall, your new fellow-lodger.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Cry you mercy, sir; I durst have sworn +you could have spoken <i>lingua Franca</i>—I thought, +<span class="pgnm">049</span><a id="page_049" name="page_049"></a> +in my conscience, Pug, this had been thy Italian +<i>merchanto</i>.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Sir, I see you mistake me for some other: +I should be happy to be better known to you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Sir, I beg your pardon, with all my <i>hearto</i>. +Before George, I was caught again there! But you +are so very like a paltry fellow, who came to sell +Pug essences this morning, that one would swear +those eyes, and that nose and mouth, belonged to +that rascal.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> You must pardon me, sir, if I do not +much relish the close of your compliment.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Their eyes are nothing like:—you'll have a +quarrel.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Not very like, I confess.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Their nose and mouth are quite different.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> As Pug says, they are quite different, indeed; +but I durst have sworn it had been he; and, +therefore, once again, I demand your <i>pardono</i>.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Come, let us go down; by this time Gervase +has brought the smith, and then Mrs Pleasance +may have her chest. Please you, sir, to bear +us company.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> At your service, madam.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Pray lead the way, sir.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> 'Tis against my will, sir; but I must leave +you in possession.<span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT III.—SCENE I.</h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Saintly</span> and <span class="cnm">Pleasance.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Never fear it, I'll be a spy upon his actions; +he shall neither whisper nor gloat on either +of them, but I'll ring him such a peal!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Above all things, have a care of him yourself; +for surely there is witchcraft betwixt his lips: +<span class="pgnm">050</span><a id="page_050" name="page_050"></a> +He is a wolf within the sheepfold; and therefore I +will be earnest, that you may not fall.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Why should my mother be so inquisitive +about this lodger? I half suspect old Eve herself +has a mind to be nibbling at the pippin. He makes +love to one of them, I am confident; it may be to +both; for, methinks, I should have done so, if I had +been a man; but the damned petticoats have perverted +me to honesty, and therefore I have a grudge +to him for the privilege of his sex. He shuns me, +too, and that vexes me; for, though I would deny +him, I scorn he should not think me worth a civil +question.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Re-enter <span class="cnm">Woodall,</span> with <span class="cnm">Tricksy, Mrs Brainsick, +Judith,</span> and Music.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Come, your works, your works; +they shall have the approbation of Mrs Pleasance.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> No more apologies; give Judith the words, +she sings at sight.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> I'll try my skill.</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<h4>A SONG FROM THE ITALIAN.</h4> +<div class="stanza pi"> +<p>By a dismal cypress lying,</p> +<p>Damon cried, all pale and dying,—</p> +<p>Kind is death, that ends my pain,</p> +<p>But cruel she I loved in vain.</p> +<p>The mossy fountains</p> +<p>Murmur my trouble,</p> +<p>And hollow mountains</p> +<p>My groans redouble:</p> +<p>Every nymph mourns me,</p> +<p>Thus while I languish;</p> +<p>She only scorns me,</p> +<p>Who caused my anguish.</p> +<p>No love returning me, but all hope denying;</p> +<p>By a dismal cypress lying,</p> +<p>Like a swan, so sung he dying,—</p> +<p><span class="pgnm">051</span><a id="page_051" name="page_051"></a> +Kind is death, that ends my pain,</p> +<p>But cruel she I loved in vain.</p> +</div></div> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> By these languishing eyes, and those <i>simagres</i> +of yours, we are given to understand, sir, +you have a mistress in this company; come, make +a free discovery which of them your poetry is to +charm, and put the other out of pain.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> No doubt 'twas meant to Mrs Brainsick.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> We wives are despicable creatures; +we know it, madam, when a mistress is in presence.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Why this ceremony betwixt you? 'Tis a +likely proper fellow, and looks as he could people a +new isle of Pines<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_3-7">[7]</a>.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> 'Twere a work of charity to convert +a fair young schismatick, like you, if 'twere but to +gain you to a better opinion of the government.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> If I am not mistaken in you, too, he has +works of charity enough upon his hands already; +but 'tis a willing soul, I'll warrant him, eager upon +the quarry, and as sharp as a governor of Covent-Garden.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Sure this is not the phrase of your family! +I thought to have found a sanctified sister; but I +suspect now, madam, that if your mother kept a +pension in your father's time, there might be some +gentleman-lodger in the house; for I humbly conceive +you are of the half-strain at least.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> For all the rudeness of your language, I +am resolved to know upon what voyage you are +bound; your privateer of love, you Argier's man, +that cruize up and down for prize in the Straitsmouth; +<span class="pgnm">052</span><a id="page_052" name="page_052"></a> +which of the vessels would you snap now?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> We are both under safe convoy, madam; +a lover and a husband.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Nay, for your part, you are notably +guarded, I confess; but keepers have their rooks, +as well as gamesters; but they only venture under +them till they pick up a sum, and then push for +themselves.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] A plague of her suspicions; they'll +ruin me on that side.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> So; let but little minx go proud, and the +dogs in Covent-Garden have her in the wind immediately; +all pursue the scent.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Not to a boarding-house, I hope?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> If they were wise, they would rather go +to a brothel-house; for there most mistresses have +left behind them their maiden-heads, of blessed memory: +and those, which would not go off in that +market, are carried about by bawds, and sold at +doors, like stale flesh in baskets. Then, for your +honesty, or justness, as you call it, to your keepers, +your kept-mistress is originally a punk; and let +the cat be changed into a lady never so formally, +she still retains her natural property of mousing.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs. Brain.</span> You are very sharp upon the mistresses; +but I hope you'll spare the wives.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Yes, as much as your husbands do after +the first month of marriage; but you requite their +negligence in household-duties, by making them +husbands of the first head, ere the year be over.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] She has me there, too!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> And as for you, young gallant—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Hold, I beseech you! a truce for me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> In troth, I pity you; for you have undertaken +a most difficult task,—to cozen two women, +who are no babies in their art: if you bring it about, +you perform as much as he that cheated the very +lottery.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">053</span><a id="page_053" name="page_053"></a> +<span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Ladies, I am sorry this should happen to +you for my sake: She is in a raging fit, you see; +'tis best withdrawing, till the spirit of prophecy has +left her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> I'll take shelter in my chamber,—whither, +I hope, he'll have the grace to follow me. +<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> And now I think on't, I have some +letters to dispatch. +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Trick.</span> and <span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> severally.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Now, good John among the maids, how +mean you to bestow your time? Away to your +study, I advise you; invoke your muses, and make +madrigals upon absence.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I would go to China, or Japan, to be rid of +that impetuous clack of yours. Farewell, thou legion +of tongues in one woman!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Will you not stay, sir? it may be I have +a little business with you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Yes, the second part of the same tune! +Strike by yourself, sweet larum; you're true bell-metal +I warrant you.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> This spitefulness of mine will be my +ruin: To rail them off, was well enough; but to talk +him away, too! O tongue, tongue, thou wert given +for a curse to all our sex!</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Judith.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> Madam, your mother would speak with +you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> I will not come; I'm mad, I think; I +come immediately. Well, I'll go in, and vent my +passion, by railing at them, and him too.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> You may enter in safety, sir; the enemy's +marched off.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Re-enter <span class="cnm">Woodall.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Nothing, but the love I bear thy mistress, +<span class="pgnm">054</span><a id="page_054" name="page_054"></a> +could keep me in the house with such a fury. When +will the bright nymph appear?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> Immediately; I hear her coming.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> That I could find her coming, Mrs Judith!</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Mrs Brainsick.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg">You have made me languish in expectation, madam. +Was it nothing, do you think, to be so near a happiness, +with violent desires, and to be delayed?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Is it nothing, do you think, for a +woman of honour, to overcome the ties of virtue +and reputation; to do that for you, which I thought +I should never have ventured for the sake of any +man?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> But my comfort is, that love has overcome. +Your honour is, in other words, but your good repute; +and 'tis my part to take care of that: for the +fountain of a woman's honour is in the lover, as that +of the subject is in the king.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> You had concluded well, if you had +been my husband: you know where our subjection +lies.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> But cannot I be yours without a priest? +They were cunning people, doubtless, who began +that trade; to have a double hank upon us, for two +worlds: that no pleasure here, or hereafter, should +be had, without a bribe to them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Well, I'm resolved, I'll read, against +the next time I see you; for the truth is, I am not +very well prepared with arguments for marriage; +meanwhile, farewell.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I stand corrected; you have reason indeed +to go, if I can use my time no better: We'll withdraw +if you please, and dispute the rest within.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Perhaps, I meant not so.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood,</span> I understand your meaning at your eyes. +You'll watch, Judith?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">055</span><a id="page_055" name="page_055"></a> +<span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Nay, if that were all, I expect not +my husband till to-morrow. The truth is, he is so +oddly humoured, that, if I were ill inclined, it would +half justify a woman; he's such a kind of man!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Or, if he be not, well make him such a +kind of man.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> So fantastical, so musical, his talk all +rapture, and half nonsense: like a clock out of order, +set him a-going, and he strikes eternally. Besides, +he thinks me such a fool, that I could half +resolve to revenge myself, in justification of my wit.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Come, come, no half resolutions among +lovers; I'll hear no more of him, till I have revenged +you fully. Go out and watch, Judith.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Judith.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Yet, I could say, in my defence, +that my friends married me to him against my will.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Then let us put your friends, too, into the +quarrel: it shall go hard, but I'll give you a revenge +for them.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Judith</span> again, hastily.</p> + +<p class="dlg">How now? what's the matter?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Can'st thou not speak? hast thou +seen a ghost?—As I live, she signs horns! that +must be for my husband: he's returned.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Judith</span> looks ghastly, and signs horns.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> I would have told you so, if I could have +spoken for fear.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Hark, a knocking! What shall we do? +<span class="sdr">[<i>Knocking.</i></span><br /> +There's no dallying in this case: here you must not +be found, that's certain; but Judith hath a chamber +within mine; haste quickly thither; I'll secure +the rest.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> Follow me, sir. +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Woodall, Judith.</span></span></p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="pgnm">056</span><a id="page_056" name="page_056"></a> +Knocking again. She opens: Enter <span class="cnm">Brainsick.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> What's the matter, gentlewoman? Am I +excluded from my own fortress; and by the way +of barricado? Am I to dance attendance at the door, +as if I were some base plebeian groom? I'll have +you know, that, when my foot assaults, the lightning +and the thunder are not so terrible as the +strokes: brazen gates shall tremble, and bolts of +adamant dismount from off their hinges, to admit +me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Who would have thought, that 'nown +dear would have come so soon? I was even lying +down on my bed, and dreaming of him. Tum a' me, +and buss, poor dear; piddee buss.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> I nauseate these foolish feats of love.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Nay, but why should he be so fretful +now? and knows I dote on him? to leave a +poor dear so long without him, and then come home +in an angry humour! indeed I'll ky.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Pr'ythee, leave thy fulsome fondness; I +have surfeited on conjugal embraces.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> I thought so: some light huswife +has bewitched him from me: I was a little fool, so +I was, to leave a dear behind at Barnet, when I +knew the women would run mad for him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> I have a luscious air forming, like a Pallas, +in my brain-pain: and now thou com'st across +my fancy, to disturb the rich ideas, with the yellow +jaundice of thy jealousy.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Noise within.</span><br /> +Hark, what noise is that within, about Judith's bed?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> I believe, dear, she's making it.—Would +the fool would go!<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Hark, again!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside</span>] I have a dismal apprehension +in my head, that he's giving my maid a cast of his +office, in my stead. O, how it stings me!<br /> +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Woodall</span> sneezes.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">057</span><a id="page_057" name="page_057"></a> +<span class="cnm">Brain.</span> I'll enter, and find the reason of this tumult.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> [<span class="sdm">Holding him.</span>] Not for the world: +there may be a thief there; and should I put 'nown +dear in danger of his life?—What shall I do? betwixt +the jealousy of my love, and fear of this fool, +I am distracted: I must not venture them together, +whatever comes on it. [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Why Judith, I say! +come forth, damsel.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood</span>. [<span class="sdm">Within.</span>] The danger's over; I may come +out safely.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> [<span class="sdm">Within.</span>] Are you mad? you shall not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] So, now I'm ruined unavoidably.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Whoever thou art, I have pronounced thy +doom; the dreadful Brainsick bares his brawny arm +in tearing terror; kneeling queens in vain should +beg thy being.—Sa, sa, there.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Though I believe he dares +not venture in, yet I must not put it to the trial. +Why Judith, come out, come out, huswife.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Judith,</span> trembling.</p> + +<p class="dlg">What villain have you hid within?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> O Lord, madam, what shall I say?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> How should I know what you should +say? Mr Brainsick has heard a man's voice within; +if you know what he makes there, confess the truth; +I am almost dead with fear, and he stands shaking.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Terror, I! 'tis indignation shakes me. +With this sabre I'll slice him as small as atoms; he +shall be doomed by the judge, and damned upon the +gibbet.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> [<span class="sdm">Kneeling.</span>] My master's so outrageous! sweet +madam, do you intercede for me, and I'll tell you +all in private.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Whispers.</span><br /> +<span class="pgnm">058</span><a id="page_058" name="page_058"></a> +If I say it is a thief, he'll call up help; I know not +what of the sudden to invent.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Let me alone.—And is this all? Why +would you not confess it before, Judith? when you +know I am an indulgent mistress.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Laughs.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> What has she confessed?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> A venial love-trespass, dear: 'tis a +sweetheart of hers; one that is to marry her; and +she was unwilling I should know it, so she hid him +in her chamber.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Aldo.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> What's the matter trow? what, in martial +posture, son Brainsick?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> Pray, father Aldo, do you beg my pardon +of my master. I have committed a fault; I have +hidden a gentleman in my chamber, who is to marry +me without his friends' consent, and therefore came +in private to me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> That thou should'st think to keep this secret! +why, I know it as well as he that made thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Heaven be praised, for this +knower of all things! Now will he lie three or four +rapping volunteers, rather than be thought ignorant +in any thing.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Do you know his friends, father Aldo?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Know them! I think I do. His mother +was an arch-deacon's daughter; as honest a woman +as ever broke bread: she and I have been cater-cousins +in our youth; we have tumbled together +between a pair of sheets, i'faith.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> An honest woman, and yet you two have +tumbled together! those are inconsistent.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> No matter for that.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> He blunders; I must help him. [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] +I warrant 'twas before marriage, that you were so +great.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">059</span><a id="page_059" name="page_059"></a> +<span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Before George, and so it was: for she had +the prettiest black mole upon her left ancle, it does +me good to think on't! His father was squire What-d'ye-call-him, +of what-d'ye-call-em shire. What +think you, little Judith? do I know him now?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> I suppose you may be mistaken: my servant's +father is a knight of Hampshire.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> I meant of Hampshire. But that I should +forget he was a knight, when I got him knighted, +at the king's coming in! Two fat bucks, I am sure +he sent me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> And what's his name?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Nay, for that, you must excuse me; I must +not disclose little Judith's secrets.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> All this while the poor gentleman is +left in pain: we must let him out in secret; for I +believe the young fellow is so bashful, he would +not willingly be seen.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> The best way will be, for father Aldo to lend +me the key of his door, which opens into my chamber; +and so I can convey him out.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> [<span class="sdm">Giving her a key.</span>] Do so, daughter. Not +a word of my familiarity with his mother, to prevent +bloodshed betwixt us: but I have her name +down in my almanack, I warrant her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> What, kiss and tell, father Aldo? kiss and +tell!<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> I'll go and pass an hour with Mrs +Tricksy.<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Limberham.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> What, the lusty lover Limberham!</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Woodall,</span> at another door.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> O here's a monsieur, new come over, and +a fellow-lodger; I must endear you two to one another.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Sir, 'tis my extreme ambition to be better +<span class="pgnm">060</span><a id="page_060" name="page_060"></a> +known to you; you come out of the country I +adore. And how does the dear Battist<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_3-8">[8]</a>? I long for +some of his new compositions in the last opera. <i>A +propos!</i> I have had the most happy invention this +morning, and a tune trouling in my head; I rise +immediately in my night-gown and slippers, down +I put the notes slap-dash, made words to them like +lightning; and I warrant you have them at the +circle in the evening.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> All were complete, sir, if S. Andre would +make steps to them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Nay, thanks to my genius, that care's over: +you shall see, you shall see. But first the air. [<i>Sings.</i>] +Is it not very fine? Ha, messieurs!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> The close of it is the most ravishing I ever +heard!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> I dwell not on your commendations. +What say you, sir? [<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Wood.</span></span>] Is it not admirable? +Do you enter into it?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Most delicate cadence!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Gad, I think so, without vanity. Battist +and I have but one soul. But the close, the close! +[<span class="sdm">Sings it thrice over.</span>] I have words too upon the +air; but I am naturally so bashful!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Will you oblige me, sir?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> You might command me, sir; for I sing +too <i>en cavalier:</i> but—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> But you would be entreated, and say, <i>Nolo, +nolo, nolo,</i> three times, like any bishop, when your +mouth waters at the diocese.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> I have no voice; but since this gentleman +commands me, let the words commend themselves.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Sings.</span><br /> +<span class="i1"><i>My Phillis is charming—</i></span> +</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> But why, of all names, would you chuse a +Phillis? There have been so many Phillises in songs, +<span class="pgnm">061</span><a id="page_061" name="page_061"></a> +I thought there had not been another left, for love +or money.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> If a man should listen to a fop!<span class="sdr">[Sings.</span><br /> +<span class="i1"><i>My Phillis—</i></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Before George, I am on t'other side: I think, +as good no song, as no Phillis.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Yet again!—<i>My Phillis—</i><span class="sdr">[Sings.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Pray, for my sake, let it be your Chloris.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> [<span class="sdm">Looking scornfully at him.</span>] <i>My Phillis—</i> +<span class="sdr">[Sings.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> You had as good call her your Succuba.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> <i>Morbleu!</i> will you not give me leave? I +am full of Phillis. [<span class="sdm">Sings.</span>] <i>My Phillis—</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Nay, I confess, Phillis is a very pretty +name.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> <i>Diable!</i> Now I will not sing, to spite +you. By the world, you are not worthy of it. +Well, I have a gentleman's fortune; I have courage, +and make no inconsiderable figure in the world: +yet I would quit my pretensions to all these, rather +than not be author of this sonnet, which your rudeness +has irrevocably lost.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Some foolish French <i>quelque chose</i>, I warrant +you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> <i>Quelque chose!</i> O ignorance, in supreme +perfection! he means a <i>kek shose</i><a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_3-9">[9]</a>.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Why a <i>kek shoes</i> let it be then! and a <i>kek +shoes</i> for your song.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> I give to the devil such a judge. Well, +were I to be born again, I would as soon be the +elephant, as a wit; he's less a monster in this age +of malice. I could burn my sonnet, out of rage.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">062</span><a id="page_062" name="page_062"></a> +<span class="cnm">Limb.</span> You may use your pleasure with your own.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> His friends would not suffer him: Virgil +was not permitted to burn his Æneids.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Dear sir, I'll not die ungrateful for your approbation. +[<span class="sdm">Aside to <span class="cnm">Wood.</span></span>] You see this fellow? +he is an ass already; he has a handsome mistress, +and you shall make an ox of him ere long.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Say no more, it shall be done.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Hark you, Mr Woodall; this fool Brainsick +grows insupportable; he's a public nuisance; +but I scorn to set my wit against him: he has a +pretty wife: I say no more; but if you do not graff +him—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> A word to the wise: I shall consider him, +for your sake.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Pray do, sir: consider him much.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Much is the word.—This feud makes well +for me.<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> [<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Wood.</span></span>] I'll give you the opportunity, +and rid you of him.—Come away, little Limberham; +you, and I, and father Aldo, will take a turn together +in the square.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> We will follow you immediately.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Yes, we will come after you, bully Brainsick: +but I hope you will not draw upon us there.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> If you fear that, Bilbo shall be left behind.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Nay, nay, leave but your madrigal behind: +draw not that upon us, and it is no matter for your +sword.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Brain.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Tricksy,</span> and <span class="cnm">Mrs Brainsick,</span> with a note +for each.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Both together! either of them, apart, +had been my business: but I shall never play well +at this three-hand game.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> O Pug, how have you been passing your +time?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">063</span><a id="page_063" name="page_063"></a> +<span class="cnm">Trick.</span> I have been looking over the last present +of orange gloves you made me; and methinks I +do not like the scent.—O Lord, Mr Woodall, did +you bring those you wear from Paris?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Mine are Roman, madam.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> The scent I love, of all the world. Pray +let me see them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Nay, not both, good Mrs Tricksy; +for I love that scent as well as you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Pulling them off, and giving each one.</span>] I +shall find two dozen more of women's gloves among +my trifles, if you please to accept them, ladies.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Look to it; we shall expect them.—Now +to put in my <i>billet-doux!</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> So, now, I have the opportunity to +thrust in my note.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Here, sir, take your glove again; the perfume's +too strong for me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Pray take the other to it; though +I should have kept it for a pawn.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Mrs <span class="cnm">Brainsick's</span> note falls out, <span class="cnm">Limb.</span> takes it up.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> What have we here? [<span class="sdm">Reads.</span>] for Mr +Woodall!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Both Women.</span> Hold, hold, Mr Limberham! +<span class="sdr">[They snatch it.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Before George, son Limberham, you shall +read it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> By your favour, sir, but he must not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> He'll know my hand, and I am ruined!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Oh, my misfortune! Mr Woodall, +will you suffer your secrets to be discovered!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> It belongs to one of them, that's certain.—Mr +Limberham, I must desire you to restore this +letter; it is from my mistress.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> The devil's in him; will he confess?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> This paper was sent me from her this +morning; and I was so fond of it, that I left it in +<span class="pgnm">064</span><a id="page_064" name="page_064"></a> +my glove: If one of the ladies had found it there, +I should have been laughed at most unmercifully.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> That's well come off!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> My heart was at my mouth, for fear it had +been Pug's. [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>]—There 'tis again—Hold, hold; +pray let me see it once more: a mistress, said you?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Yes, a mistress, sir. I'll be his voucher, +he has a mistress, and a fair one too.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Do you know it, father Aldo.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Know it! I know the match is as good as +made already: old Woodall and I are all one. You, +son, were sent for over on purpose; the articles for +her jointure are all concluded, and a friend of mine +drew them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Nay, if father Aldo knows it, I am satisfied.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> But how came you by this letter, son Woodall? +let me examine you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Came by it! (pox, he has <i>non-plus'd</i> me!) +How do you say I came by it, father Aldo?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Why, there's it, now. This morning I met +your mistress's father, Mr you know who—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Mr who, sir?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Nay, you shall excuse me for that; but we +are intimate: his name begins with some vowel or +consonant, no matter which: Well, her father gave +me this very numerical letter, subscribed, for Mr. +Woodall.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Before George, and so it is.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Carry me this letter, quoth he, to your son +Woodall; 'tis from my daughter such a one, and +then whispered me her name.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Let me see; I'll read it once again.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> What, are you not acquainted with the +contents of it?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> O, your true lover will read you over a +letter from his mistress, a thousand times.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">065</span><a id="page_065" name="page_065"></a> +<span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Ay, two thousand, if he be in the humour.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Two thousand! then it must be hers. +[<span class="sdm">Reads to himself.</span>] "Away to your chamber immediately, +and I'll give my fool the slip."—The +fool! that may be either the keeper, or the husband; +but commonly the keeper is the greater. Humh! +without subscription! it must be Tricksy.—Father +Aldo, pr'ythee rid me of this coxcomb.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Come, son Limberham, we let our friend +Brainsick walk too long alone: Shall we follow him? +we must make haste; for I expect a whole bevy +of whores, a chamber-full of temptation this afternoon: +'tis my day of audience.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Mr Woodall, we leave you here—you remember? +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Limb.</span> and <span class="cnm">Aldo.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Let me alone.—Ladies, your servant; I +have a little private business with a friend of mine.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Meaning me.—Well, sir, your servant.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Your servant, till we meet again. +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt severally.</span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">SCENE II.—<i>Mr</i> <span class="cnm">Woodall's</span> <i>Chamber.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Mrs <span class="cnm">Brainsick</span> alone.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> My note has taken, as I wished: he +will be here immediately. If I could but resolve +to lose no time, out of modesty; but it is his part +to be violent, for both our credits. Never so little +force and ruffling, and a poor weak woman is excused. +[<span class="sdm">Noise.</span>] Hark, I hear him coming.—Ah +me! the steps beat double: He comes not alone. +If it should be my husband with him! where shall +I hide myself? I see no other place, but under his +bed: I must lie as silently as my fear will suffer +me. Heaven send me safe again to my own chamber!<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Creeps under the Bed.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="pgnm">066</span><a id="page_066" name="page_066"></a> +Enter <span class="cnm">Woodall</span> and <span class="cnm">Tricksy.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Well, fortune at the last is favourable, and +now you are my prisoner.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> After a quarter of an hour, I suppose, I +shall have my liberty upon easy terms. But pray +let us parley a little first.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Let it be upon the bed then. Please you +to sit?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> No matter where; I am never the nearer +to your wicked purpose. But you men are commonly +great comedians in love-matters; therefore +you must swear, in the first place—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Nay, no conditions: The fortress is reduced +to extremity; and you must yield upon discretion, +or I storm.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Never to love any other woman.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I kiss the book upon it. [<span class="sdm">Kisses her. Mrs +<span class="cnm">Brain.</span> pinches him from underneath the Bed.</span>] Oh, +are you at your love-tricks already? If you pinch +me thus, I shall bite your lip.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> I did not pinch you: But you are apt, I +see, to take any occasion of gathering up more +close to me.—Next, you shall not so much as look +on Mrs Brainsick.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Have you done? these covenants are so +tedious!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Nay, but swear then.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I do promise, I do swear, I do any thing. +[<span class="sdm">Mrs <span class="cnm">Brain.</span> runs a pin into him.</span>] Oh, the devil! +what do you mean to run pins into me? this is +perfect caterwauling.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> You fancy all this; I would not hurt you +for the world. Come, you shall see how well I love +you. [<span class="sdm">Kisses him: Mrs <span class="cnm">Brain.</span> pricks her.</span>] Oh! +I think you have needles growing in your bed.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Both rise up.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">067</span><a id="page_067" name="page_067"></a> +<span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I will see what is the matter in it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> [<span class="sdm">Within.</span>] Mr Woodall, where are you, +verily?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Pox verily her! it is my landlady: Here, +hide yourself behind the curtains, while I run to +the door, to stop her entry.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Necessity has no law; I must be patient. +<span class="sdr">[She gets into the Bed, and draws the clothes over her.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Saintly.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> In sadness, gentleman, I can hold no longer: +I will not keep your wicked counsel, how you were +locked up in the chest; for it lies heavy upon my +conscience, and out it must, and shall.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> You may tell, but who will believe you? +where's your witness?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Verily, heaven is my witness.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> That's your witness too, that you would +have allured me to lewdness, have seduced a hopeful +young man, as I am; you would have enticed +youth: Mark that, beldam.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> I care not; my single evidence is enough +to Mr Limberham; he will believe me, that thou +burnest in unlawful lust to his beloved: So thou +shalt be an outcast from my family.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Then will I go to the elders of thy church, +and lay thee open before them, that thou didst feloniously +unlock that chest, with wicked intentions +of purloining: So thou shalt be excommunicated +from the congregation, thou Jezebel, and delivered +over to Satan.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Verily, our teacher will not excommunicate +me, for taking the spoils of the ungodly, to +clothe him; for it is a judged case amongst us, that +a married woman may steal from her husband, to +<span class="pgnm">068</span><a id="page_068" name="page_068"></a> +relieve a brother. But yet them mayest atone this +difference betwixt us; verily, thou mayest.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Now thou art tempting me again. Well, +if I had not the gift of continency, what might become +of me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> The means have been offered thee, and +thou hast kicked with the heel. I will go immediately +to the tabernacle of Mr Limberham, and +discover thee, O thou serpent, in thy crooked paths.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Going.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Hold, good landlady, not so fast; let me +have time to consider on't; I may mollify, for +flesh is frail. An hour or two hence we will confer +together upon the premises.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Oh, on the sudden, I feel myself exceeding +sick! Oh! oh!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Get you quickly to your closet, and fall +to your <i>mirabilis</i>; this is no place for sick people. +Begone, begone!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Verily, I can go no farther.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> But you shall, verily. I will thrust you +down, out of pure pity.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Oh, my eyes grow dim! my heart quops, +and my back acheth! here I will lay me down, and +rest me.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Throws herself suddenly down upon the Bed; +<span class="cnm">Tricksy</span> shrieks, and rises; Mrs <span class="cnm">Brain.</span> +rises from under the Bed in a fright.</span><br /><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> So! here's a fine business! my whole +seraglio up in arms!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> So, so; if Providence had not sent me +hither, what folly had been this day committed!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Oh the old woman in the oven! we both +overheard your pious documents: Did we not, Mrs +Brainsick?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Yes, we did overhear her; and we +will both testify against her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">069</span><a id="page_069" name="page_069"></a> +<span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I have nothing to say for her. Nay, I +told her her own; you can both bear me witness. +If a sober man cannot be quiet in his own chamber +for her—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> For, you know, sir, when Mrs Brainsick +and I over-heard her coming, having been before +acquainted with her wicked purpose, we both agreed +to trap her in it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> And now she would 'scape herself, by +accusing us! but let us both conclude to cast an +infamy upon her house, and leave it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Sweet Mr Woodall, intercede for me, or I +shall be ruined.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Well, for once I'll be good-natured, and +try my interest.—Pray, ladies, for my sake, let this +business go no farther.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick. and Mrs Brain.</span> You may command us.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> For, look you, the offence was properly to +my person; and charity has taught me to forgive +my enemies. I hope, Mrs Saintly, this will be a +warning to you, to amend your life: I speak +like a Christian, as one that tenders the welfare of +your soul.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Verily, I will consider.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Why, that is well said.—[<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Gad, and +so must I too; for my people is dissatisfied, and +my government in danger: But this is no place +for meditation.—Ladies, I wait on you.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span><br /></p> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT IV.—SCENE I.</h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Aldo</span> and <span class="cnm">Geoffery.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Despatch, Geoffery, despatch: The outlying +punks will be upon us, ere I am in a readiness +to give audience. Is the office well provided?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Geoff.</span> The stores are very low, sir: Some dolly +petticoats, and manteaus we have; and half a +<span class="pgnm">070</span><a id="page_070" name="page_070"></a> +dozen pair of laced shoes, bought from court at +second hand.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Before George, there is not enough to rig +out a mournival of whores: They'll think me grown +a mere curmudgeon. Mercy on me, how will this +glorious trade be carried on, with such a miserable +stock!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Geoff.</span> I hear a coach already stopping at the door.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Well, somewhat in ornament for the body, +somewhat in counsel for the mind; one thing must +help out another, in this bad world: Whoring must +go on.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter Mrs <span class="cnm">Overdon,</span> and her Daughter <span class="cnm">Prue.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Over.</span> Ask blessing, Prue: He is the best +father you ever had.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Bless thee, and make thee a substantial, +thriving whore. Have your mother in your eye, +Prue; it is good to follow good example. How old +are you, Prue? Hold up your head, child.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pru.</span> Going o'my sixteen, father Aldo.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> And you have been initiated but these two +years: Loss of time, loss of precious time! Mrs +Overdon, how much have you made of Prue, since +she has been man's meat?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Over.</span> A very small matter, by my troth; +considering the charges I have been at in her education: +Poor Prue was born under an unlucky +planet; I despair of a coach for her. Her first +maiden-head brought me in but little, the weather-beaten +old knight, that bought her of me, beat down +the price so low. I held her at an hundred guineas, +and he bid ten; and higher than thirty would not +rise.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> A pox of his unlucky handsel! He can but +fumble, and will not pay neither.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pru.</span> Hang him; I could never endure him, father: +<span class="pgnm">071</span><a id="page_071" name="page_071"></a> +He is the filthiest old goat; and then he +comes every day to our house, and eats out his +thirty guineas; and at three months end, he threw +me off.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Over.</span> And since then, the poor child has +dwindled, and dwindled away. Her next maiden-head +brought me but ten; and from ten she fell to +five; and at last to a single guinea: She has no +luck to keeping; they all leave her, the more my +sorrow.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> We must get her a husband then in the +city; they bite rarely at a stale whore at this +end of the town, new furbished up in a tawdry +manteau.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Over.</span> No: Pray let her try her fortune a +little longer in the world first: By my troth, I +should be loth to be at all this cost, in her French, +and her singing, to have her thrown away upon a +husband.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Before George, there can come no good of +your swearing, Mrs Overdon: Say your prayers, +Prue, and go duly to church o'Sundays, you'll thrive +the better all the week. Come, have a good heart, +child; I will keep thee myself: Thou shalt do my +little business; and I'll find thee an able young +fellow to do thine.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter Mrs <span class="cnm">PAD.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg">Daughter Pad, you are welcome: What, you +have performed the last Christian office to your +keeper; I saw you follow him up the heavy hill to +Tyburn. Have you had never a business since his +death?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Pad.</span> No indeed, father; never since execution-day. +The night before, we lay together most +lovingly in Newgate; and the next morning he +lift up his eyes, and prepared his soul with a prayer, +<span class="pgnm">072</span><a id="page_072" name="page_072"></a> +while one might tell twenty; and then mounted +the cart as merrily, as if he had been going for a +purse.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> You are a sorrowful widow, daughter Pad; +but I'll take care of you.—Geoffery, see her rigged +out immediately for a new voyage: Look in figure +9, in the upper drawer, and give her out the flowered +justacorps, with the petticoat belonging to it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Pad.</span> Could you not help to prefer me, father?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Let me see—let me see:—Before George, I +have it, and it comes as pat too! Go me to the very +judge that sate upon him; it is an amorous, impotent +old magistrate, and keeps admirably. I saw +him leer upon you from the bench: He will tell +you what is sweeter than strawberries and cream, before +you part.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter Mrs <span class="cnm">Termagant.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Term.</span> O father, I think I shall go mad.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> You are of the violentest temper, daughter +Termagant! When had you a business last?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Term.</span> The last I had was with young Caster, +that son-of-a-whore gamester: he brought me +to taverns, to draw in young cullies, while he bubbled +them at play; and, when he had picked up a +considerable sum, and should divide, the cheating +dog would sink my share, and swear,—Damn him, he +won nothing.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Unconscionable villain, to cozen you in +your own calling!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Term.</span> When he loses upon the square, he +comes home zoundsing and blooding; first beats me +unmercifully, and then squeezes me to the last penny. +He has used me so, that, Gad forgive me, I could +almost forswear my trade. The rogue starves me +too: He made me keep Lent last year till Whitsuntide, +<span class="pgnm">073</span><a id="page_073" name="page_073"></a> +and out-faced me with oaths it was but Easter. +And what mads me most, I carry a bastard of the +rogue's in my belly; and now he turns me off, and +will not own it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Over.</span> Lord, how it quops! you are half a +year gone, madam.— +<span class="sdr">[Laying her hand on her belly.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Term.</span> I feel the young rascal kicking already, +like his father.—Oh, there is an elbow thrusting +out: I think, in my conscience, he is palming +and topping in my belly; and practising for a livelihood, +before he comes into the world.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Geoffery, set her down in the register, that I +may provide her a mid-wife, and a dry and wet nurse: +When you are up again, as heaven send you a good +hour, we will pay him off at law, i'faith. You have +him under black and white, I hope?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Term.</span> Yes, I have a note under his hand +for two hundred pounds.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> A note under his hand! that is a chip in +porridge; it is just nothing.—Look, Geoffery, to +the figure 12, for old half-shirts for childbed linen.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter Mrs <span class="cnm">Hackney.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hack.</span> O, madam Termagant, are you here? Justice, +father Aldo, justice!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Why, what is the matter, daughter Hackney?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hack.</span> She has violated the law of nations; for +yesterday she inveigled my own natural cully from +me, a married lord, and made him false to my bed, +father.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Term.</span> Come, you are an illiterate whore. He is +my lord now; and, though you call him fool, it is +well known he is a critic, gentlewoman. You never +read a play in all your life; and I gained him +by my wit, and so I'll keep him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hack.</span> My comfort is, I have had the best of him; +<span class="pgnm">074</span><a id="page_074" name="page_074"></a> +he can take up no more, till his father dies: And +so, much good may do you with my cully, and my +clap into the bargain.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Then there is a father for your child, my +lord's son and heir by Mr Caster. But henceforward, +to preserve peace betwixt you, I ordain, that +you shall ply no more in my daughter Hackney's +quarters: You shall have the city, from White-Chapel +to Temple-Bar, and she shall have to Covent-Garden +downwards: At the play-houses, she shall +ply the boxes, because she has the better face; and +you shall have the pit, because you can prattle best +out of a vizor mask.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Pad.</span> Then all friends, and confederates. +Now let us have father Aldo's delight, and so adjourn +the house.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Well said, daughter.—Lift up your voices, +and sing like nightingales, you tory rory jades. Courage, +I say; as long as the merry pence hold out, +you shall none of you die in Shoreditch.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Woodall.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg">A hey, boys, a hey! here he comes, that will +swinge you all! down, you little jades, and worship +him; it is the genius of whoring.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> And down went chairs and table, and +out went every candle. Ho, brave old patriarch in +the middle of the church militant! whores of all +sorts; forkers and ruin-tailed: Now come I gingling +in with my bells, and fly at the whole covey.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> A hey, a hey, boys! the town's thy own; +burn, ravish, and destroy!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> We will have a night of it, like Alexander, +when he burnt Persepolis: <i>tuez, tuez, tuez! +point de quartier.</i><br /> +<span class="sdr">[He runs in amongst them, and they scuttle about +the room.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="pgnm">075</span><a id="page_075" name="page_075"></a> +Enter <span class="cnm">Saintly, Pleasance, Judith,</span> with +Broom-sticks.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> What, in the midst of Sodom! O thou +lewd young man! my indignation boils over against +these harlots; and thus I sweep them from out my +family.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Down with the Suburbians, down with +them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> O spare my daughters, Mrs Saintly! Sweet +Mrs Pleasance, spare my flesh and blood!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Keep the door open, and help to secure +the retreat, father: There is no pity to be expected.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[The Whores run out, followed by <span class="cnm">Saintly, +Pleasance,</span> and <span class="cnm">Judith.</span></span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Welladay, welladay! one of my daughters is +big with bastard, and she laid at her gascoins most +unmercifully! every stripe she had, I felt it: The +first fruit of whoredom is irrecoverably lost!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Make haste, and comfort her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> I will, I will; and yet I have a vexatious +business, which calls me first another way. The +rogue, my son, is certainly come over; he has been +seen in town four days ago.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> It is impossible: I'll not believe it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> A friend of mine met his old man, Giles, +this very morning, in quest of me; and Giles assured +him, his master is lodged in this very street.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> In this very street! how knows he that?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> He dogged him to the corner of it; and +then my son turned back, and threatened him. +But I'll find out Giles, and then I'll make such an +example of my reprobate!<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> If Giles be discovered, I am undone!—Why, +Gervase, where are you, sirrah! Hey, hey!</p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="pgnm">076</span><a id="page_076" name="page_076"></a> +Enter <span class="cnm">Gervase.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg">Run quickly to that betraying rascal Giles, a +rogue, who would take Judas's bargain out of his +hands, and undersell him. Command him strictly +to mew himself up in his lodgings, till farther orders: +and in case he be refractory, let him know, I +have not forgot to kick and cudgel. That <i>memento</i> +would do well for you too, sirrah.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> Thank your worship; you have always been +liberal of your hands to me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> And you have richly deserved it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> I will not say, who has better deserved it +of my old master.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Away, old Epictetus, about your business, +and leave your musty morals, or I shall—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> Nay, I won't forfeit my own wisdom so +far as to suffer for it. Rest you merry: I'll do my +best, and heaven mend all.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Saintly.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Verily, I have waited till you were alone, +and am come to rebuke you, out of the zeal of my +spirit.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> It is the spirit of persecution. Dioclesian, +and Julian the apostate, were but types of thee. +Get thee hence, thou old Geneva testament: thou +art a part of the ceremonial law, and hast been abolished +these twenty years.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> All this is nothing, sir. I am privy to your +plots: I'll discover them to Mr Limberham, and +make the house too hot for you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> What, you can talk in the language of the +world, I see!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> I can, I can, sir; and in the language of +the flesh and devil too, if you provoke me to despair: +You must, and shall be mine, this night.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">077</span><a id="page_077" name="page_077"></a> +<span class="cnm">Wood.</span> The very ghost of queen Dido in the ballad.<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_3-10">[10]</a></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Delay no longer, or—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Or! you will not swear, I hope?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Uds-niggers but I will; and that so loud, +that Mr Limberham shall hear me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Uds-niggers, I confess, is a very dreadful +oath. You could lie naturally before, as you are a +fanatic; if you can swear such rappers too, there +is hope of you; you may be a woman of the world +in time. Well, you shall be satisfied, to the utmost +farthing, to-night, and in your own chamber.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Or, expect to-morrow—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> All shall be atoned ere then. Go, provide +the bottle of clary, the Westphalia ham, and other +fortifications of nature; we shall see what may be +done. What! an old woman must not be cast away.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Chucks her.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Then, verily, I am appeased.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Nay, no relapsing into verily; that is in +our bargain. Look how she weeps for joy! It is a +good old soul, I warrant her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> You will not fail?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Dost thou think I have no compassion +for thy gray hairs? Away, away; our love may be +discovered: We must avoid scandal; it is thy own +maxim.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Saintly.</span></span><br /> +They are all now at ombre; and Brainsick's maid +has promised to send her mistress up.</p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="pgnm">078</span><a id="page_078" name="page_078"></a> +Enter <span class="cnm">Pleasance.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg">That fury here again!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] I'll conquer my proud spirit, I am +resolved on it, and speak kindly to him.—What, +alone, sir! If my company be not troublesome; or +a tender young creature, as I am, may safely trust +herself with a man of such prowess, in love affairs—It +wonnot be.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> So! there is one broadside already: I +must sheer off.<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> What, you have been pricking up and +down here upon a cold scent<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_3-11">[11]</a>; but, at last, you have +hit it off, it seems! Now for a fair view at the wife +or mistress: up the wind, and away with it: Hey, +Jowler!—I think I am bewitched, I cannot hold.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Your servant, your servant, madam: I am +in a little haste at present.<span class="sdr">[Going.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Pray resolve me first, for which of them +you lie in ambush; for, methinks, you have the +mien of a spider in her den. Come, I know the +web is spread, and whoever comes, Sir Cranion stands +ready to dart out, hale her in, and shed his venom.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] But such a terrible wasp, as she, +will spoil the snare, if I durst tell her so.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> It is unconscionably done of me, to debar +you the freedom and civilities of the house. Alas, +poor gentleman! to take a lodging at so dear a rate, +and not to have the benefit of his bargain!—Mischief +on me, what needed I have said that?<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> The dialogue will go no farther. Farewell, +gentle, quiet lady.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Pray stay a little; I'll not leave you thus.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I know it; and therefore mean to leave +you first.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> O, I find it now! you are going to set up +<span class="pgnm">079</span><a id="page_079" name="page_079"></a> +your bills, like a love-mountebank, for the speedy +cure of distressed widows, old ladies, and languishing +maids in the green-sickness: a sovereign remedy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> That last, for maids, would be thrown +away: Few of your age are qualified for the medicine. +What the devil would you be at, madam?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> I am in the humour of giving you good +counsel. The wife can afford you but the leavings +of a fop; and to a witty man, as you think yourself, +that is nauseous: The mistress has fed upon a fool +so long, she is carrion too, and common into the +bargain. Would you beat a ground for game in the +afternoon, when my lord mayor's pack had been +before you in the morning?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I had rather sit five hours at one of his +greasy feasts, then hear you talk.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Your two mistresses keep both shop and +warehouse; and what they cannot put off in gross, +to the keeper and the husband, they sell by retail +to the next chance-customer. Come, are you edified?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I am considering how to thank you for +your homily; and, to make a sober application of it, +you may have some laudable design yourself in this +advice.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Meaning, some secret inclination to that +amiable person of yours?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I confess, I am vain enough to hope it; +for why should you remove the two dishes, but to +make me fall more hungrily on the third?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Perhaps, indeed, in the way of honour—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Paw, paw! that word honour has almost +turned my stomach: it carries a villainous interpretation +of matrimony along with it. But, in a civil +way, I could be content to deal with you, as the +church does with the heads of your fanatics, offer +you a lusty benefice to stop your mouth; if fifty +<span class="pgnm">080</span><a id="page_080" name="page_080"></a> +guineas, and a courtesy more worth, will win you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Out upon thee! fifty guineas! Dost thou +think I'll sell myself? And at a playhouse price +too? Whenever I go, I go all together: No cutting +from the whole piece; he who has me shall +have the fag-end with the rest, I warrant him. Be +satisfied, thy sheers shall never enter into my cloth. +But, look to thyself, thou impudent belswagger: +I will he revenged; I will.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> The maid will give warning, that is my +comfort; for she is bribed on my side. I have another +kind of love to this girl, than to either of the +other two; but a fanatic's daughter, and the noose +of matrimony, are such intolerable terms! O, here +she comes, who will sell me better cheap.</p> + +<h4 class="scn">SCENE <i>opens to</i> <span class="cnm">Brainsick's</span> <i>Apartment.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter Mrs <span class="cnm">Brainsick.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> How now, sir? what impudence is +this of yours, to approach my lodgings?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> You lately honoured mine; and it is the +part of a well-bred man, to return your visit.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> If I could have imagined how base +a fellow you had been, you should not then have +been troubled with my company.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> How could I guess, that you intended me +the favour, without first acquainting me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Could I do it, ungrateful as you +are, with more obligation to you, or more hazard +to myself, than by putting my note into your glove?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Was it yours, then? I believed it came +from Mrs Tricksy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> You wished it so; which made you +so easily believe it. I heard the pleasant dialogue +betwixt you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I am glad you did; for you could not but +observe, with how much care I avoided all occasions +<span class="pgnm">081</span><a id="page_081" name="page_081"></a> +of railing at you; to which she urged me, like a +malicious woman, as she was.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> By the same token, you vowed and +swore never to look on Mrs Brainsick!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> But I had my mental reservations in a +readiness. I had vowed fidelity to you before; and +there went my second oath, i'faith: it vanished in +a twinkling, and never gnawed my conscience in +the least.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Well, I shall never heartily forgive +you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> [<span class="sdm">Within.</span>] Mr Brainsick, Mr Brainsick, what +do you mean, to make my lady lose her game thus? +Pray, come back, and take up her cards again.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> My husband, as I live! Well, for all +my quarrel to you, step immediately into that little +dark closet: it is for my private occasions; there is +no lock, but he will not stay.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Thus am I ever tantalized!<span class="sdr">[Goes in.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Brainsick.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> What, am I become your drudge? your +slave? the property of all your pleasures? Shall I, +the lord and master of your life, become subservient; +and the noble name of husband be dishonoured? +No, though all the cards were kings and queens, +and Indies to be gained by every deal—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> My dear, I am coming to do my +duty. I did but go up a little, (I whispered you for +what) and am returning immediately.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Your sex is but one universal ordure, a +nuisance, and incumbrance of that majestic creature, +man: yet I myself am mortal too. Nature's necessities +have called me up; produce your utensil +of urine.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> It is not in the way, child: You +may go down into the garden.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">082</span><a id="page_082" name="page_082"></a> +<span class="cnm">Brain.</span> The voyage is too far: though the way +were paved with pearls and diamonds, every step of +mine is precious, as the march of monarchs.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Then my steps, which are not so +precious, shall be employed for you: I will call up +Judith.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> I will not dance attendance. At the present, +your closet shall be honoured.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> O lord, dear, it is not worthy to receive +such a man as you are.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Nature presses; I am in haste.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> He must be discovered, and I unavoidably +undone!<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /> +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Brainsick</span> goes to the door, and <span class="cnm">Woodall</span> +meets him: She shrieks out.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Monsieur Woodall!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Sir, begone, and make no noise, or you +will spoil all.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Spoil all, quotha! what does he mean, +in the name of wonder?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Taking him aside.</span>] Hark you, Mr Brainsick, +is the devil in you, that you and your wife +come hither, to disturb my intrigue, which you +yourself engaged me in, with Mrs Tricksy, to revenge +you on Limberham? Why, I had made an +appointment with her here; but, hearing somebody +come up, I retired into the closet, till I was satisfied +it was not the keeper.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> But why this intrigue in my wife's chamber?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Why, you turn my brains, with talking to +me of your wife's chamber! do you lie in common? +the wife and husband, the keeper and the mistress?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> I am afraid they are quarrelling; +pray heaven I get off.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Once again, I am the sultan of this place: +Mr Limberham is the mogul of the next mansion.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Though I am a stranger in the house, it +<span class="pgnm">083</span><a id="page_083" name="page_083"></a> +is impossible I should be so much mistaken: I say, +this is Limberham's lodging.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> You would not venture a wager of ten +pounds, that you are not mistaken?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> It is done: I will lay you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Who shall be judge?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Who better than your wife? She cannot +be partial, because she knows not on which side +you have laid.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Content.—Come hither, lady mine: Whose +lodgings are these? who is lord, and grand seignior +of them?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Oh, goes it there?—Why +should you ask me such a question, when every +body in the house can tell they are 'nown dear's?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Now are you satisfied? Children and fools, +you know the proverb—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Pox on me! nothing but such a positive +coxcomb as I am, would have laid his money upon +such odds; as if you did not know your own lodgings +better than I, at half a day's warning! And +that which vexes me more than the loss of my money, +is the loss of my adventure!<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> It shall be spent: We will have a treat +with it. This is a fool of the first magnitude.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Let my own dear alone, to find a +fool out.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Limberham.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Bully Brainsick, Pug has sent me to you +on an embassy, to bring you down to cards again; +she is in her mulligrubs already; she will never forgive +you the last <i>vol</i> you won. It is but losing a +little to her, out of complaisance, as they say, to a +fair lady; and whatever she wins, I will make up +to you again in private.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> I would not be that slave you are, to enjoy +<span class="pgnm">084</span><a id="page_084" name="page_084"></a> +the treasures of the east. The possession of +Peru, and of Potosi, should not buy me to the bargain.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Will you leave your perboles, and come +then?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> No; for I have won a wager, to be spent +luxuriously at Long's; with Pleasance of the party, +and Termagant Tricksy; and I will pass, in person, +to the preparation: Come, matrimony.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Brainsick,</span> Mrs <span class="cnm">Brain.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Saintly,</span> and <span class="cnm">Pleasance.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> To him: I'll second you: now for mischief!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Arise, Mr Limberham, arise; for conspiracies +are hatched against you, and a new Faux is +preparing to blow up your happiness.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> What is the matter, landlady? Pr'ythee, +speak good honest English, and leave thy canting.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Verily, thy beloved is led astray, by the +young man Woodall, that vessel of uncleanness: +I beheld them communing together; she feigned +herself sick, and retired to her tent in the garden-house; +and I watched her out-going, and behold he +followed her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Do you stand unmoved, and hear all this?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Before George, I am thunder-struck!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Take to thee thy resolution, and avenge +thyself.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> But give me leave to consider first: A +man must do nothing rashly.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> I could tear out the villain's eyes, for dishonouring +you, while you stand considering, as you +call it. Are you a man, and suffer this?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Yes, I am a man; but a man's but a man, +you know: I am recollecting myself, how these +things can be.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">085</span><a id="page_085" name="page_085"></a> +<span class="cnm">Saint.</span> How they can be! I have heard them; I +have seen them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Heard them, and seen them! It may be +so; but yet I cannot enter into this same business: +I am amazed, I must confess; but the best is, I do +not believe one word of it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Make haste, and thine own eyes shall testify +against her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Nay, if my own eyes testify, it may be so:—but +it is impossible, however; for I am making +a settlement upon her, this very day.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Look, and satisfy yourself, ere you make +that settlement on so false a creature.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> But yet, if I should look, and not find her +false, then I must cast in another hundred, to make +her satisfaction.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Was there ever such a meek, hen-hearted +creature!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Verily, thou has not the spirit of a cock-chicken.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Before George, but I have the spirit of a +lion, and I will tear her limb from limb—if I could +believe it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Love, jealousy, and disdain, how they +torture me at once! and this insensible creature—were +I but in his place—[<span class="sdm">To him.</span>] Think, that this +very instant she is yours no more: Now, now she +is giving up herself, with so much violence of +love, that if thunder roared, she could not hear it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> I have been whetting all this while: They +shall be so taken in the manner, that Mars and +Venus shall be nothing to them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Make haste; go on then.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Yes, I will go on;—and yet my mind +misgives me plaguily.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Again backsliding!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Have you no sense of honour in you?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">086</span><a id="page_086" name="page_086"></a> +<span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Well, honour is honour, and I must +go: But I shall never get me such another Pug +again! O, my heart! my poor tender heart! it is +just breaking with Pug's unkindness!<br /> +<span class="sdr">[They drag him out.</span><br /></p> + +<h4 class="scn">SCENE II.—<span class="cnm">Woodall</span> <i>and</i> <span class="cnm">Tricksy</span> <i>discovered in +the Garden-house.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Gervase</span> to them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> Make haste, and save yourself, sir; the +enemy's at hand: I have discovered him from the +corner, where you set me sentry.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Who is it?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> Who should it be, but Limberham? armed +with a two-hand fox. O Lord, O Lord!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Enter quickly into the still-house, both of +you, and leave me to him: There is a spring-lock +within, to open it when we are gone.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Well, I have won the party and revenge, +however: A minute longer, and I had won the tout.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[They go in: She locks the Door.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Limberham,</span> with a great Sword.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Disloyal Pug!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> What humour is this? you are drunk, it +seems: Go sleep.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Thou hast robbed me of my repose for +ever: I am like Macbeth, after the death of good +king Duncan; methinks a voice says to me,—Sleep +no more; Tricksy has murdered sleep.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Now I find it: You are willing to save +your settlement, and are sent by some of your wise +counsellors, to pick a quarrel with me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> I have been your cully above these seven +years; but, at last, my eyes are opened to your +witchcraft; and indulgent heaven has taken care +<span class="pgnm">087</span><a id="page_087" name="page_087"></a> +of my preservation. In short, madam, I have found +you out; and, to cut off preambles, produce your +adulterer.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> If I have any, you know him best: You +are the only ruin of my reputation. But if I have +dishonoured my family, for the love of you, methinks +you should be the last man to upbraid me +with it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> I am sure you are of the family of your +abominable great grandam Eve; but produce the +man, or, by my father's soul—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Still I am in the dark.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Yes, you have been in the dark; I know +it: But I shall bring you to light immediately.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> You are not jealous?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> No; I am too certain to be jealous: But +you have a man here, that shall be nameless; let +me see him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Oh, if that be your business, you had best +search: And when you have wearied yourself, and +spent your idle humour, you may find me above, in +my chamber, and come to ask my pardon.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Going.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> You may go, madam; but I shall beseech +your ladyship to leave the key of the still-house +door behind you: I have a mind to some of the +sweet-meats you have locked up there; you understand +me. Now, for the old dog-trick! you have +lost the key, I know already, but I am prepared +for that; you shall know you have no fool to deal +with.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> No; here is the key: Take it, and satisfy +your foolish curiosity.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] This confidence amazes me! If +those two gipsies have abused me, and I should +not find him there now, this would make an immortal +quarrel.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] I have put him to a stand.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">088</span><a id="page_088" name="page_088"></a> +<span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Hang it, it is no matter; I will be satisfied: +If it comes to a rupture, I know the way to +buy my peace. Pug, produce the key.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> [<span class="sdm">Takes him about the neck.</span>] My dear, I have +it for you: come, and kiss me. Why would you +be so unkind to suspect my faith now! when I +have forsaken all the world for you.—[<span class="sdm">Kiss again.</span>] +But I am not in the mood of quarrelling to-night; +I take this jealousy the best way, as the effect of +your passion. Come up, and we will go to bed together, +and be friends.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Kiss again.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Pug is in a pure humour to-night, +and it would vex a man to lose it; but yet I must +be satisfied:—and therefore, upon mature consideration, +give me the key.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> You are resolved, then?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Yes, I am resolved; for I have sworn to +myself by Styx; and that is an irrevocable oath.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Now, see your folly: There's the key. +<span class="sdr">[Gives it him.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Why, that is a loving Pug; I will prove +thee innocent immediately: And that will put an +end to all controversies betwixt us.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Yes, it shall put an end to all our quarrels: +Farewell for the last time, sir. Look well upon my +face, that you may remember it; for, from this +time forward, I have sworn it irrevocably too, that +you shall never see it more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Nay, but hold a little, Pug. What's the +meaning of this new commotion?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> No more; but satisfy your foolish fancy, +for you are master: and, besides, I am willing to be +justified.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Then you shall be justified. +<span class="sdr">[Puts the Key in the Door.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> I know I shall: Farewell.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> But, are you sure you shall?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">089</span><a id="page_089" name="page_089"></a> +<span class="cnm">Trick.</span> No, no, he is there: You'll find him up +in the chimney, or behind the door; or, it may be, +crowded into some little galley-pot.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> But you will not leave me, if I should +look?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> You are not worthy my answer: I am gone. +<span class="sdr">[Going out.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Hold, hold, divine Pug, and let me recollect +a little.—This is no time for meditation neither: +while I deliberate, she may be gone. She must be +innocent, or she could never be so confident and +careless.—Sweet Pug, forgive me.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Kneels.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> I am provoked too far.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> It is the property of a goddess to forgive. +Accept of this oblation; with this humble kiss, I +here present it to thy fair hand: I conclude thee +innocent without looking, and depend wholly upon +thy mercy.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Offers the Key.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> No, keep it, keep it: the lodgings are +your own.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> If I should keep it, I were unworthy of +forgiveness: I will no longer hold this fatal instrument +of our separation.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> [<span class="sdm">Taking it.</span>] Rise, sir: I will endeavour to +overcome my nature, and forgive you; for I am so +scrupulously nice in love, that it grates my very +soul to be suspected: Yet, take my counsel, and +satisfy yourself.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> I would not be satisfied, to be possessor of +Potosi, as my brother Brainsick says. Come to bed, +dear Pug.—Now would not I change my condition, +to be an eastern monarch!<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Woodall</span> and <span class="cnm">Gervase.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> O lord, sir, are we alive!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Alive! why, we were never in any danger: +Well, she is a rare manager of a fool!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">090</span><a id="page_090" name="page_090"></a> +<span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> Are you disposed yet to receive good +counsel? Has affliction wrought upon you?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Yes, I must ask thy advice in a most important +business. I have promised a charity to +Mrs Saintly, and she expects it with a beating +heart a-bed: Now, I have at present no running +cash to throw away; my ready money is all paid to +Mrs Tricksy, and the bill is drawn upon me for +to-night.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> Take advice of your pillow.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> No, sirrah; since you have not the grace +to offer yours, I will for once make use of my authority +and command you to perform the foresaid +drudgery in my place.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> Zookers, I cannot answer it to my conscience.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Nay, an your conscience can suffer you +to swear, it shall suffer you to lie too: I mean in +this sense. Come, no denial, you must do it; she +is rich, and there is a provision for your life.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> I beseech you, sir, have pity on my soul.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Have you pity of your body: There is all +the wages you must expect.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> Well, sir, you have persuaded me: I will +arm my conscience with a resolution of making +her an honourable amends by marriage; for to-morrow +morning a parson shall authorise my labours, +and turn fornication into duty. And, moreover, I +will enjoin myself, by way of penance, not to touch +her for seven nights after.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Thou wert predestinated for a husband, I +see, by that natural instinct: As we walk, I will +instruct thee how to behave thyself, with secrecy +and silence.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> I have a key of the garden, to let us out +the back-way into the street, and so privately to our +lodging.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> 'Tis well: I will plot the rest of my affairs +<span class="pgnm">091</span><a id="page_091" name="page_091"></a> +a-bed; for it is resolved that Limberham shall not +wear horns alone: and I am impatient till I add +to my trophy the spoils of Brainsick.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span><br /></p> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT V.—SCENE I.</h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Woodall</span> and <span class="cnm">Judith.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> Well, you are a lucky man! Mrs Brainsick +is fool enough to believe you wholly innocent; and +that the adventure of the garden-house, last night, +was only a vision of Mrs Saintly's.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I knew, if I could once speak with her, +all would be set right immediately; for, had I been +there, look you—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> As you were, most certainly.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Limberham must have found me out; +that <i>fe-fa-fum</i> of a keeper would have smelt the +blood of a cuckold-maker: They say, he was peeping +and butting about in every cranny.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> But one. You must excuse my unbelief, +though Mrs Brainsick is better satisfied. She and +her husband, you know, went out this morning to +the New Exchange: There she has given him the +slip; and pretending to call at her tailor's to try +her stays for a new gown—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I understand thee;—she fetched me a +short turn, like a hare before her muse, and will +immediately run hither to covert?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> Yes; but because your chamber will be least +suspicious, she appoints to meet you there; that, +if her husband should come back, he may think +her still abroad, and you may have time—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> To take in the horn-work. It happens as +I wish; for Mrs Tricksy, and her keeper, are gone +out with father Aldo, to complete her settlement; +my landlady is safe at her morning exercise with +<span class="pgnm">092</span><a id="page_092" name="page_092"></a> +my man Gervase, and her daughter not stirring: +the house is our own, and iniquity may walk bare-faced.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> And, to make all sure, I am ordered to be +from home. When I come back again, I shall +knock at your door, with,<br /> +<span class="i1"><i>Speak, brother, speak;</i></span><span class="sdr">[Singing.</span><br /> +<span class="i1"><i>Is the deed done?</i></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> <i>Long ago, long ago;</i>—and then we come +panting out together. Oh, I am ravished with the +imagination on't!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> Well, I must retire; good-morrow to you, +sir.<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Now do I humbly conceive, that this +mistress in matrimony will give me more pleasure +than the former; for your coupled spaniels, +when they are once let loose, are afterwards the +highest rangers.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter Mrs <span class="cnm">Brainsick,</span> running.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Oh dear Mr Woodall, what shall I do?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Recover breath, and I'll instruct you in +the next chamber.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> But my husband follows me at heels.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Has he seen you?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> I hope not: I thought I had left him +sure enough at the Exchange; but, looking behind +me, as I entered into the house, I saw him walking +a round rate this way.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Since he has not seen you, there is no +danger; you need but step into my chamber, and +there we will lock ourselves up, and transform him +in a twinkling.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> I had rather have got into my own; +but Judith is gone out with the key, I doubt.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Yes, by your appointment. But so much +<span class="pgnm">093</span><a id="page_093" name="page_093"></a> +the better; for when the cuckold finds no company, +he will certainly go a sauntering again.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Make haste, then.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Immediately.—[<span class="sdm">Goes to open the Door hastily, +and breaks his Key.</span>] What is the matter here? the +key turns round, and will not open! As I live, we +are undone! with too much haste it is broken!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Then I am lost; for I cannot enter +into my own.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> This next room is Limberham's. See! +the door's open; and he and his mistress are both +abroad.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> There is no remedy, I must venture +in; for his knowing I am come back so soon, +must be cause of jealousy enough, if the fool should +find me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Looking in.</span>] See there! Mrs Tricksy has +left her Indian gown upon the bed; clap it on, and +turn your back: he will easily mistake you for her, +if he should look in upon you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> I will put on my vizor-mask, however, +for more security. [<span class="sdm">Noise.</span>] Hark! I hear him.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Goes in.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Brainsick.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> What, in a musty musing, monsieur +Woodall! Let me enter into the affair.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> You may guess it, by the post I have +taken up.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> O, at the door of the damsel Tricksy! +your business is known by your abode; as the posture +of a porter before a gate, denotes to what family +he belongs. [<span class="sdm">Looks in.</span>] It is an assignation, I +see; for yonder she stands, with her back toward +me, drest up for the duel, with all the ornaments +of the east. Now for the judges of the field, to +<span class="pgnm">094</span><a id="page_094" name="page_094"></a> +divide the sun and wind betwixt the combatants, +and a tearing trumpeter to sound the charge.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> It is a private quarrel, to be decided without +seconds; and therefore you would do me a +favour to withdraw.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Your Limberham is nearer than you imagine: +I left him almost entering at the door.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Plague of all impertinent cuckolds! they +are ever troublesome to us honest lovers: so intruding!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> They are indeed, where their company is +not desired.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Sure he has some tutelar devil to guard +his brows! just when she had bobbed him, and +made an errand home, to come to me!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> It is unconscionably done of him. But +you shall not adjourn your love for this: the Brainsick +has an ascendant over him; I am your guarantee; +he is doomed a cuckold, in disdain of destiny.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> What mean you?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> To stand before the door with my brandished +blade, and defend the entrance: He dies +upon the point, if he approaches.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> If I durst trust it, it is heroic.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> It is the office of a friend: I will do it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Should he know hereafter his +wife were here, he would think I had enjoyed her, +though I had not; it is best venturing for something. +He takes pains enough, on conscience, for +his cuckoldom; and, by my troth, has earned it +fairly.—But, may a man venture upon your promise?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Bars of brass, and doors of adamant, could +not more secure you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I know it; but still gentle means are best: +<span class="pgnm">095</span><a id="page_095" name="page_095"></a> +You may come to force at last. Perhaps you may +wheedle him away: it is but drawing a trope or +two upon him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> He shall have it, with all the artillery of +eloquence.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Ay, ay; your figure breaks no bones. +With your good leave.— +<span class="sdr">[Goes in.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Thou hast it, boy. Turn to him, madam; +to her Woodall: and St George for merry England. +<i>Tan ta ra ra ra, ra ra! Dub, a dub, dub; Tan ta ra +ra ra.</i></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Limberham.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> How now, bully Brainsick! What, upon +the <i>Tan ta ra</i>, by yourself?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Clangor, <i>taratantara,</i> murmur.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Commend me to honest <i>lingua Franca</i>. +Why, this is enough to stun a Christian, with your +Hebrew, and your Greek, and such like Latin.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Out, ignorance!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Then ignorance, by your leave; for I must +enter. +<span class="sdr">[Attempts to pass.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Why in such haste? the fortune of Greece +depends not on it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> But Pug's fortune does: that is dearer to +me than Greece, and sweeter than ambergrease.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> You will not find her here. Come, you +are jealous; you are haunted with a raging fiend, +that robs you of your sweet repose.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Nay, an you are in your perbole's again! +Look you, it is Pug is jealous of her jewels: she +has left the key of her cabinet behind, and has desired +me to bring it back to her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Poor fool! he little thinks she is here before +him!—Well, this pretence will never pass on +me; for I dive deeper into your affairs; you are +<span class="pgnm">096</span><a id="page_096" name="page_096"></a> +jealous. But, rather than my soul should be concerned +for a sex so insignificant—Ha! the gods! +If I thought my proper wife were now within, and +prostituting all her treasures to the lawless love of +an adulterer, I would stand as intrepid, as firm, and +as unmoved, as the statue of a Roman gladiator.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> [<span class="sdm">In the same tone.</span>] Of a Roman +gladiator!—Now are you as mad as a March hare; but +I am in haste, to return to Pug: yet, by your favour, +I will first secure the cabinet.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> No, you must not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Must not? What, may not a man come +by you, to look upon his own goods and chattels, +in his own chamber?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> No; with this sabre I defy the destinies, +and dam up the passage with my person; like a +rugged rock, opposed against the roaring of the +boisterous billows. Your jealousy shall have no +course through me, though potentates and princes—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Pr'ythee, what have we to do with potentates +and princes? Will you leave your troping, +and let me pass?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> You have your utmost answer.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> If this maggot bite a little deeper, we +shall have you a citizen of Bethlem yet, ere dog-days. +Well, I say little; but I will tell Pug on it.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> She knows it already, by your favour— +<span class="sdr">[Knocking.</span><br /> +Sound a retreat, you lusty lovers, or the enemy +will charge you in the flank, with a fresh reserve: +March off, march off upon the spur, ere he can +reach you.</p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="pgnm">097</span><a id="page_097" name="page_097"></a> +Enter <span class="cnm">Woodall.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> How now, baron Tell-clock<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_3-12">[12]</a>, is the passage +clear?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Clear as a level, without hills or woods, +and void of ambuscade.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> But Limberham will return immediately, +when he finds not his mistress where he thought he +left her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Friendship, which has done much, will +yet do more. [<span class="sdm">Shows a key.</span>] With this <i>passe par tout</i>, +I will instantly conduct her to my own chamber, +that she may out-face the keeper, she has been there; +and, when my wife returns, who is my slave, I will +lay my conjugal commands upon her, to affirm, +they have been all this time together.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I shall never make you amends for this +kindness, my dear Padron. But would it not be +better, if you would take the pains to run after +Limberham, and stop him in his way ere he reach +the place where he thinks he left his mistress; then +hold him in discourse as long as possibly you can, +till you guess your wife may be returned, that so +they may appear together?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> I warrant you: <i>laissez faire a Marc +Antoine.</i><span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Now, madam, you may venture out in +safety.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">098</span><a id="page_098" name="page_098"></a> +<span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> [<span class="sdm">Entering.</span>] Pray heaven I may. +<span class="sdr">[Noise.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Hark! I hear Judith's voice: it happens +well that she's returned: slip into your chamber +immediately, and send back the gown.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> I will:—but are not you a wicked +man, to put me into all this danger? +<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Let what can happen, my comfort is, at +least, I have enjoyed. But this is no place for consideration. +Be jogging, good Mr Woodall, out of +this family, while you are well; and go plant in +some other country, where your virtues are not so +famous.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Going.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Tricksy,</span> with a box of writings.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> What, wandering up and down, as if you +wanted an owner? Do you know that I am lady of +the manor; and that all wefts and strays belong to +me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I have waited for you above an hour; but +friar Bacon's head has been lately speaking to me,—that +time is past. In a word, your keeper has been +here, and will return immediately; we must defer +our happiness till some more favourable time.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> I fear him not; he has this morning armed +me against himself, by this settlement; the next +time he rebels, he gives me a fair occasion of leaving +him for ever.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> But is this conscience in you? not to let +him have his bargain, when he has paid so dear for +it?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> You do not know him: he must perpetually +be used ill, or he insults. Besides, I have +gained an absolute dominion over him: he must +not see, when I bid him wink. If you argue after +this, either you love me not, or dare not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Go in, madam: I was never dared before. +<span class="pgnm">099</span><a id="page_099" name="page_099"></a> +I'll but scout a little, and follow you immediately. +[<span class="sdm"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> goes in.</span>] I find a mistress is only kept for +other men: and the keeper is but her man in a green +livery, bound to serve a warrant for the doe, whenever +she pleases, or is in season.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Judith,</span> with the Night-gown.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> Still you're a lucky man! Mr Brainsick has +been exceeding honourable: he ran, as if a legion +of bailiffs had been at his heels, and overtook Limberham +in the street. Here, take the gown; lay +it where you found it, and the danger's over.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Speak softly; Mrs Tricksy is returned. +[<i>Looks in.</i>] Oh, she's gone into her closet, to lay +up her writings: I can throw it on the bed, ere she +perceive it has been wanting.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Throws it in.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Jud.</span> Every woman would not have done this for +you, which I have done.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I am sensible of it, little Judith; there's +a time to come shall pay for all. I hear her returning: +not a word; away.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Judith.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Re-enter <span class="cnm">Tricksy.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> What, is a second summons needful? my +favours have not been so cheap, that they should +stick upon my hands. It seems, you slight your +bill of fare, because you know it; or fear to be invited +to your loss.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I was willing to secure my happiness from +interruption. A true soldier never falls upon the +plunder, while the enemy is in the field.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> He has been so often baffled, that he grows +contemptible. Were he here, should he see you +enter into my closet; yet—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> You are like to be put upon the trial, for +I hear his voice.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> 'Tis so: go in, and mark the event now: +<span class="pgnm">100</span><a id="page_100" name="page_100"></a> +be but as unconcerned, as you are safe, and trust +him to my management.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I must venture it; because to be seen here +would have the same effect, as to be taken within. +Yet I doubt you are too confident.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[He goes in.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Limberham</span> and <span class="cnm">Brainsick.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> How now, Pug? returned so soon!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> When I saw you came not for me, I was +loth to be long without you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> But which way came you, that I saw you +not?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> The back way; by the garden door.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> How long have you been here?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Just come before you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> O, then all's well. For, to tell you true, +Pug, I had a kind of villainous apprehension that +you had been here longer: but whatever thou sayest +is an oracle, sweet Pug, and I am satisfied.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] How infinitely she gulls him! and +he so stupid not to find it! [<span class="sdm">To her.</span>] If he be still +within, madam, (you know my meaning?) here's +Bilbo ready to forbid your keeper entrance.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Woodall must have told him of +our appointment.—What think you of walking +down, Mr Limberham?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> I'll but visit the chamber a little first.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> What new maggot's this? you dare not, +sure, be jealous!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> No, I protest, sweet Pug, I am not: only +to satisfy my curiosity; that's but reasonable, you +know.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Come, what foolish curiosity?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> You must know, Pug, I was going but just +now, in obedience to your commands, to enquire +of the health and safety of your jewels, and my +brother Brainsick most barbarously forbade me entrance:—nay, +<span class="pgnm">101</span><a id="page_101" name="page_101"></a> +I dare accuse you, when Pug's by to +back me;—but now I am resolved I will go see them, +or somebody shall smoke for it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> But I resolve you shall not. If she pleases +to command my person, I can comply with the obligation +of a cavalier.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> But what reason had you to forbid him, +then, sir?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Ay, what reason had you to forbid me, +then, sir?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> 'Twas only my caprichio, madam.—Now +must I seem ignorant of what she knows full well.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> We'll enquire the cause at better leisure; +come down, Mr Limberham.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Nay, if it were only his caprichio, I am +satisfied; though I must tell you, I was in a kind +of huff, to hear him <i>Tan ta ra, tan ta ra,</i> a quarter +of an hour together; for <i>Tan ta ra</i> is but an odd +kind of sound, you know, before a man's chamber.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Pleasance.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Judith has assured me, he must +be there; and, I am resolved, I'll satisfy my revenge +at any rate upon my rivals.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Mrs Pleasance is come to call us: pray let +us go.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Oh dear, Mr Limberham, I have had the +dreadfullest dream to-night, and am come to tell it +you: I dreamed you left your mistress's jewels in +your chamber, and the door open.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> In good time be it spoken; and so I did, +Mrs Pleasance.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> And that a great swinging thief came in, +and whipt them out.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Marry, heaven forbid!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> This is ridiculous: I'll speak to your mother, +<span class="pgnm">102</span><a id="page_102" name="page_102"></a> +madam, not to suffer you to eat such heavy +suppers.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Nay, that's very true; for, you may remember +she fed very much upon larks and pigeons; +and they are very heavy meat, as Pug says.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> The jewels are all safe; I looked on them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Will you never stand corrected, Mrs Pleasance?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Not by you; correct your matrimony.—And +methought, of a sudden this thief was turned +to Mr Woodall; and that, hearing Mr Limberham +come, he slipt for fear into the closet.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> I looked all over it; I'm sure he is not +there.—Come away, dear.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> What, I think you are in a dream too, +brother Limberham.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> If her dream should come out now! 'tis +good to be sure, however.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> You are sure; have not I said it?—You had +best make Mr Woodall a thief, madam.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> I make him nothing, madam: but the +thief in my dream was like Mr Woodall; and that +thief may have made Mr Limberham something.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Nay, Mr Woodall is no thief, that's certain; +but if a thief should be turned to Mr Woodall, +that may be something.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Then I'll fetch out the jewels: will that +satisfy you?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> That shall satisfy him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Yes, that shall satisfy me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Then you are a predestinated fool, and +somewhat worse, that shall be nameless. Do you +not see how grossly she abuses you? my life on't, +there's somebody within, and she knows it; otherwise +she would suffer you to bring out the jewels.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Nay, I am no predestinated fool; and therefore, +Pug, give way.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">103</span><a id="page_103" name="page_103"></a> +<span class="cnm">Trick.</span> I will not satisfy your humour.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Then I will satisfy it myself: for my generous +blood is up, and I'll force my entrance.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Here's Bilbo, then, shall bar you; atoms +are not so small, as I will slice the slave. Ha! +fate and furies!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Ay, for all your fate and furies, I charge +you, in his majesty's name, to keep the peace: now, +disobey authority, if you dare.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Fear him not, sweet Mr Brainsick.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> to <i>Brain.</i> But, if you should hinder him, +he may trouble you at law, sir, and say you robbed +him of his jewels.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> That is well thought on. I will accuse +him heinously; there—and therefore fear and +tremble.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> My allegiance charms me: I acquiesce. +The occasion is plausible to let him pass.—Now +let the burnished beams upon his brow blaze broad, +for the brand he cast upon the Brainsick.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Dear Mr Limberham, come back, and hear +me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Yes, I will hear thee, Pug.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Go on; my life for yours, he is there.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> I am deaf as an adder; I will not hear +thee, nor have no commiseration.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Struggles from her, and rushes in.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Then I know the worst, and care not. +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Limberham</span> comes running out with the +Jewels, followed by <span class="cnm">Woodall,</span> with his +Sword drawn.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> O save me, Pug, save me! +<span class="sdr">[Gets behind her.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> A slave, to come and interrupt me at my +devotions! but I will—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Hold, hold, since you are so devout; for +heaven's sake, hold!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">104</span><a id="page_104" name="page_104"></a> +<span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Nay, monsieur Woodall!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> For my sake, spare him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Yes, for Pug's sake, spare me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I did his chamber the honour, when my +own was not open, to retire thither; and he to disturb +me, like a profane rascal as he was.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] I believe he had the devil for his +chaplain, an' a man durst tell him so.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> What is that you mutter?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Nay, nothing; but that I thought you +had not been so well given. I was only afraid of +Pug's jewels.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> What, does he take me for a thief? nay +then—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> O mercy, mercy!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Hold, sir; it was a foolish dream of mine +that set him on. I dreamt, a thief, who had been +just reprieved for a former robbery, was venturing +his neck a minute after in Mr Limberham's closet.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Are you thereabouts, i'faith! A pox of +Artemidorus<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_3-13">[13]</a>.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> I have had a dream, too, concerning Mrs +Brainsick, and perhaps—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Mrs Tricksy, a word in private with you, +by your keeper's leave.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Yes, sir, you may speak your pleasure to +her; and, if you have a mind to go to prayers together, +the closet is open.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Trick.</span></span>] You but suspect it at most, and +cannot prove it: if you value me, you will not engage +me in a quarrel with her husband.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">105</span><a id="page_105" name="page_105"></a> +<span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Well, in hope you will love me, I will +obey.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Now, damsel Tricksy, your dream, your +dream!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> It was something of a flagelet, that a shepherd +played upon so sweetly, that three women followed +him for his music, and still one of them +snatched it from the other.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] I understand her; but I find she +is bribed to secrecy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> That flagelet was, by interpretation,—but +let that pass; and Mr Woodall, there, was the shepherd, +that played the <i>tan ta ra</i> upon it: but a generous +heart, like mine, will endure the infamy no longer; +therefore, Pug, I banish thee for ever.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Then farewell.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Is that all you make of me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> I hate to be tormented with your jealous +humours, and am glad to be rid of them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Bear witness, good people, of her ingratitude! +Nothing vexes me, but that she calls me +jealous; when I found him as close as a butterfly +in her closet.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> No matter for that; I knew not he was +there.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Would I could believe thee!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> You have both our words for it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Why should you persuade him against his +will?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Since you won't persuade me, I care not +much; here are the jewels in my possession, and +I'll fetch out the settlement immediately.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Shewing the Box.</span>] Look you, sir, I'll +spare your pains; four hundred a-year will serve to +comfort a poor cast mistress.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> I thought what would come of your devil's +<i>pater nosters</i>!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">106</span><a id="page_106" name="page_106"></a> +<span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Restore it to him for pity, Woodall.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> I make him my trustee; he shall not restore +it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Here are jewels, that cost me above two +thousand pounds; a queen might wear them. Behold +this orient necklace, Pug! 'tis pity any neck +should touch it, after thine, that pretty neck! but +oh, 'tis the falsest neck that e'er was hanged in +pearl.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> 'Twould become your bounty to give it +her at parting.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Never the sooner for your asking. But oh, +that word parting! can I bear it? if she could find +in her heart but so much grace, as to acknowledge +what a traitress she has been, I think, in my conscience +I could forgive her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Trick.</span> I'll not wrong my innocence so much, nor +this gentleman's; but, since you have accused us +falsely, four hundred a-year betwixt us two will +make us some part of reparation.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I answer you not, but with my leg, madam.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] This mads me; but I cannot +help it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> What, wilt thou kill me, Pug, with thy +unkindness, when thou knowest I cannot live without +thee? It goes to my heart, that this wicked +fellow—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> How's that, sir?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Under the rose, good Mr Woodall; but, I +speak it with all submission, in the bitterness of +my spirit, that you, or any man, should have the +disposing of my four hundred a-year <i>gratis</i>; therefore +dear Pug, a word in private, with your permission, +good Mr Woodall.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">107</span><a id="page_107" name="page_107"></a> +<span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Alas, I know, by experience, I may safely +trust my person with you. +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Limb.</span> and <span class="cnm">Trick.</span></span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Aldo.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> O, father Aldo, we have wanted you! +Here has been made the rarest discovery!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> With the most comical catastrophe!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Happily arrived, i'faith, my old sub-fornicator; +I have been taken up on suspicion here with +Mrs Tricksy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> To be taken, to be seen! Before George, +that's a point next the worst, son Woodall.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Truth is, I wanted thy assistance, old Methusalem; +but, my comfort is, I fell greatly.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Well, young Phæton, that's somewhat yet, +if you made a blaze at your departure.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Giles,</span> Mrs <span class="cnm">Brainsick,</span> and <span class="cnm">Judith.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Giles.</span> By your leave, gentlemen, I have followed +an old master of mine these two long hours, and +had a fair course at him up the street; here he entered, +I'm sure.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Whoop holyday! our trusty and well-beloved +Giles, most welcome! Now for some news +of my ungracious son.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Giles here! O rogue, rogue! +Now, would I were safe stowed over head and ears +in the chest again.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Look you now, son Woodall, I told you +I was not mistaken; my rascal's in town, with a +vengeance to him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Giles.</span> Why, this is he, sir; I thought you had +known him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Known whom?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Giles.</span> Your son here, my young master.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Do I dote? or art thou drunk, Giles?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">108</span><a id="page_108" name="page_108"></a> +<span class="cnm">Giles.</span> Nay, I am sober enough, I'm sure; I have +been kept fasting almost these two days.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Before George, 'tis so! I read it in that +leering look: What a Tartar have I caught!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Woodall his son!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> What, young father Aldo!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Now cannot I for shame hold up +my head, to think what this young rogue is privy +to!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> The most dumb interview I ever +saw!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> What, have you beheld the Gorgon's head +on either side?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Oh, my sins! my sins! and he keeps my +book of conscience too! He can display them, with +a witness! Oh, treacherous young devil!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Well, the squib's run to the end of +the line, and now for the cracker: I must bear up.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> I must set a face of authority on the matter, +for my credit.—Pray, who am I? do you +know me, sir?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Yes, I think I should partly know you, +sir: You may remember some private passages betwixt +us.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] I thought as much; he has me already!—But +pray, sir, why this ceremony amongst +friends? Put on, put on; and let us hear what news +from France. Have you heard lately from my son? +does he continue still the most hopeful and esteemed +young gentleman in Paris? does he manage his allowance +with the same discretion? and, lastly, has +he still the same respect and duty for his good old +father?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Faith, sir, I have been too long from my +catechism, to answer so many questions; but, suppose +there be no news of your <i>quondam</i> son, you +may comfort up your heart for such a loss; father +<span class="pgnm">109</span><a id="page_109" name="page_109"></a> +Aldo has a numerous progeny about the town, +heaven bless them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> It is very well, sir; I find you have been +searching for your relations, then, in Whetstone's +Park<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_3-14">[14]</a>!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> No, sir; I made some scruple of going to +the foresaid place, for fear of meeting my own father +there.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Before George, I could find in my heart to +disinherit thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Sure you cannot be so unnatural.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I am sure I am no bastard; witness one +good quality I have. If any of your children have a +stronger tang of the father in them, I am content +to be disowned.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Well, from this time forward, I pronounce +thee—no son of mine.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Then you desire I should proceed to justify +I am lawfully begotten? The evidence is ready, +sir; and, if you please, I shall relate, before this honourable +assembly, those excellent lessons of morality +you gave me at our first acquaintance. As, in +the first place—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Hold, hold; I charge thee hold, on thy +obedience. I forgive thee heartily: I have proof +enough thou art my son; but tame thee that can, +thou art a mad one.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Why this is as it should be.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> [<span class="sdm">To him.</span>] Not a word of any passages betwixt +us; it is enough we know each other; hereafter +<span class="pgnm">110</span><a id="page_110" name="page_110"></a> +we will banish all pomp and ceremony, and +live familiarly together. I'll be Pylades, and thou +mad Orestes, and we will divide the estate betwixt +us, and have fresh wenches, and <i>ballum rankum</i> +every night.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> A match, i'faith: and let the world pass.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> But hold a little; I had forgot one point: +I hope you are not married, nor engaged?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> To nothing but my pleasures, I.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> A mingle of profit would do well though. +Come, here is a girl; look well upon her; it is a +mettled toad, I can tell you that: She will make +notable work betwixt two sheets, in a lawful way.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> What, my old enemy, Mrs Pleasance!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> Marry Mrs Saintly's daughter!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> The truth is, she has past for her daughter, +by my appointment; but she has as good blood +running in her veins, as the best of you. Her father, +Mr Palms, on his death-bed, left her to my care and +disposal, besides a fortune of twelve hundred a +year; a pretty convenience, by my faith.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Beyond my hopes, if she consent.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> I have taken some care of her education, +and placed her here with Mrs Saintly, as her daughter, +to avoid her being blown upon by fops, and +younger brothers. So now, son, I hope I have +matched your concealment with my discovery; +there is hit for hit, ere I cross the cudgels.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> You will not take them up, sir?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> I dare not against you, madam: I am +sure you will worst me at all weapons. All I can +say is, I do not now begin to love you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Let me speak for thee: Thou shalt be used, +little Pleasance, like a sovereign princess: Thou +shalt not touch a bit of butchers' meat in a twelve-month; +and thou shall be treated—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">111</span><a id="page_111" name="page_111"></a> +<span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Not with <i>ballum rankum</i> every night, I +hope!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Well, thou art a wag; no more of that. +Thou shall want neither man's meat, nor woman's +meat, as far as his provision will hold out.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> But I fear he is so horribly given to go a +house-warming abroad, that the least part of the provision +will come to my share at home.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> You will find me so much employment in +my own family, that I shall have little need to look +out for journey-work.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> Before George, he shall do thee reason, ere +thou sleepest.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> No; he shall have an honourable truce for +one day at least; for it is not fair to put a fresh +enemy upon him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Mrs Brain.</span> [<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Pleas.</span></span>] I beseech you, madam, +discover nothing betwixt him and me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> [<span class="sdm">To her.</span>] I am contented to cancel the +old score; but take heed of bringing me an after-reckoning.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Gervase,</span> leading <span class="cnm">Saintly.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> Save you, gentlemen; and you, my <i>quondam</i> +master: You are welcome all, as I may say.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> How now, sirrah? what is the matter?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> Give good words, while you live, sir; your +landlord, and Mr Saintly, if you please.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Oh, I understand the business; he is married +to the widow.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Saint.</span> Verily the good work is accomplished.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> But, why Mr Saintly?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> When a man is married to his betters, it +is but decency to take her name. A pretty house, a +pretty situation, and prettily furnished! I have been +unlawfully labouring at hard duty; but a parson has +soldered up the matter: Thank your worship, Mr +<span class="pgnm">112</span><a id="page_112" name="page_112"></a> +Woodall—How? Giles here!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> This business is out, and I am now Aldo. +My father has forgiven me, and we are friends.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> When will Giles, with his honesty, come +to this?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Nay, do not insult too much, good Mr +Saintly: Thou wert but my deputy; thou knowest +the widow intended it to me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> But I am satisfied she performed it with +me, sir. Well, there is much good will in these precise +old women; they are the most zealous bed-fellows! +Look, an' she does not blush now! you +see there is grace in her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Mr Limberham, where are you? Come, +cheer up, man! How go matters on your side of the +country? Cry him, Gervase.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gerv.</span> Mr Limberham, Mr Limberham, make +your appearance in the court, and save your recognizance.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Limberham</span> and <span class="cnm">Tricksy.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Sir, I should now make a speech to you +in my own defence; but the short of all is this: +If you can forgive what is past, your hand, and +I'll endeavour to make up the breach betwixt you +and your mistress: If not, I am ready to give you +the satisfaction of a gentleman.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> Sir, I am a peaceable man, and a good +Christian, though I say it, and desire no satisfaction +from any man. Pug and I are partly agreed upon +the point already; and therefore lay thy hand upon +thy heart, Pug, and, if thou canst, from the bottom +of thy soul, defy mankind, naming no body, I'll forgive +thy past enormities; and, to give good example +to all Christian keepers, will take thee to be my +wedded wife; and thy four hundred a-year shall +be settled upon thee, for separate maintenance.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">113</span><a id="page_113" name="page_113"></a> +<span class="cnm">Trick.</span> Why, now I can consent with honour.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Aldo.</span> This is the first business that was ever made +up without me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> Give you joy, Mr Bridegroom.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Limb.</span> You may spare your breath, sir, if you +please; I desire none from you. It is true, I am +satisfied of her virtue, in spite of slander; but, to +silence calumny, I shall civilly desire you henceforth, +not to make a chapel-of-ease of Pug's closet.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] I'll take care of false worship, I'll +warrant him. He shall have no more to do with +Bel and the Dragon.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Brain.</span> Come hither, wedlock, and let me seal +my lasting love upon thy lips. Saintly has been seduced, +and so has Tricksy; but thou alone art kind +and constant. Hitherto I have not valued modesty, +according to its merit; but hereafter, Memphis shall +not boast a monument more firm than my affection.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> A most excellent reformation, and at a +most seasonable time! The moral of it is pleasant, +if well considered. Now, let us to dinner.—Mrs +Saintly, lead the way, as becomes you, in your own +house.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[The rest going off.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pleas.</span> Your hand, sweet moiety.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Wood.</span> And heart too, my comfortable importance.<br /> +<span class="i1">Mistress and wife, by turns, I have possessed:</span><br /> +<span class="i1">He, who enjoys them both in one, is blessed.</span> +</p> + +<div class="ftnt"> +<p>Footnotes:</p> +<ol> +<li><a id="Limbe_3-1" name="Limbe_3-1"></a>The Mahommedan doctrine of predestination is well known. +They reconcile themselves to all dispensations, by saying, "They +are written on the forehead" of him, to whose lot they have fallen.</li> + +<li><a id="Limbe_3-2" name="Limbe_3-2"></a>The custom of drinking <i>supernaculum</i>, consisted in turning +down the cup upon the thumb-nail of the drinker after his pledge, +when, if duly quaffed off, no drop of liquor ought to appear upon +his nail.<br /><br /> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>With that she set it to her nose,</p> +<p>And off at once the rumkin goes;</p> +<p>No drops beside her muzzle falling,</p> +<p>Until that she had supped it all in:</p> +<p>Then turning't topsey on her thumb,</p> +<p>Says—look, here's <i>supernaculum.</i></p> +<p class="citation"><i>Cotton's Virgil travestie.</i></p> +</div> + +<p>This custom seems to have been derived from the Germans, who +held, that if a drop appeared on the thumb, it presaged grief and +misfortune to the person whose health was drunk.</p></li> + +<li><a id="Limbe_3-3" name="Limbe_3-3"></a>This piece of dirty gallantry seems to have been fashionable:<br /><br /> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>Come, Phyllis, thy finger, to begin the go round;</p> +<p>How the glass in thy hand with charms does abound!</p> +<p>You and the wine to each other lend arms,</p> +<p class="i3">And I find that my love</p> +<p class="i3">Does for either improve,</p> +<p>For that does redouble, as you double your charms.</p> +</div> +</li> + +<li><a id="Limbe_3-4" name="Limbe_3-4"></a>Dapper, a silly character in Jonson's Alchemist, tricked by an +astrologer, who persuades him the queen of fairies is his aunt.</li> + +<li><a id="Limbe_3-5" name="Limbe_3-5"></a>The mask, introduced in the first act of the Maid's Tragedy, +ends with the following dialogue betwixt Cinthia and Night:<br /><br /> + +<div class="poem"> +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cinthia</span> Whip up thy team,<br /> +The day breaks here, and yon sun-flaring beam<br /> +Shot from the south. Say, which way wilt thou go?<br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Night.</span> I'll vanish into mists.<br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cinthia.</span> I into day.</p> +</div> +</li> + +<li><a id="Limbe_3-6" name="Limbe_3-6"></a>In spring 1677, whilst the treaty of Nimeguen was under +discussion, the French took the three important frontier towns, +Valenciennes, St Omer, and Cambray. The Spaniards seemed, +with the most passive infatuation, to have left the defence of +Flanders to the Prince of Orange and the Dutch.</li> + +<li><a id="Limbe_3-7" name="Limbe_3-7"></a>Alluding to the imaginary history of Pine, a merchant's clerk, +who, being wrecked on a desert island in the South Seas, bestowed +on it his own name, and peopled it by the assistance of his +master's daughter and her two maid servants, who had escaped +from the wreck by his aid.</li> + +<li><a id="Limbe_3-8" name="Limbe_3-8"></a>Sulli, the famous composer.</li> + +<li><a id="Limbe_3-9" name="Limbe_3-9"></a>It would seem that about this time the French were adopting +their present mode of pronunciation, so capriciously distinct from +the orthography.</li> + +<li><a id="Limbe_3-10" name="Limbe_3-10"></a>"Queen Dido, or the wandering Prince of Troy," an old ballad, +printed in the "Reliques of Ancient Poetry," in which the ghost +of queen Dido thus addresses the perfidious Æneas: + +<div class="poem"> +<p>Therefore prepare thy flitting soul,</p> +<p class="i1">To wander with me in the air;</p> +<p>When deadly grief shall make it howl,</p> +<p class="i1">Because of me thou took'st no care.</p> +<p>Delay not time, thy glass is run,</p> +<p class="i1">Thy date is past, thy life is done.</p> +</div> +</li> + +<li><a id="Limbe_3-11" name="Limbe_3-11"></a><i>Pricking</i>, in hare-hunting, is tracking the foot of the game by +the eye, when the scent is lost.</li> + +<li><a id="Limbe_3-12" name="Limbe_3-12"></a>The facetious Tom Brown, in his 2d dialogue on Mr Bayes' +changing his religion, introduces our poet saying, + +<p>"Likewise he (Cleveland) having the misfortune to call that +domestic animal a cock,</p> + +<p class="i1">The Baron Tell-clock of the night,</p> + +<p>I could never, igad, as I came home from the tavern, meet a +watchman or so, but I presently asked him, 'Baron Tell-clock of +the night, pr'ythee how goes the time?"</p></li> + +<li><a id="Limbe_3-13" name="Limbe_3-13"></a>Artemidorus, the sophist of Cnidos, was the soothsayer who +prophesied the death of Cæsar. Shakespeare has introduced him +in his tragedy of "Julius Cæsar."</li> + +<li><a id="Limbe_3-14" name="Limbe_3-14"></a>A common rendezvous of the rakes and bullies of the time; +"For when they expected the most polished hero in Nemours, I +gave them a ruffian reeking from Whetstone's Park." Dedication +to Lee's "Princess of Cleves." In his translation of Ovid's "Love +Elegies," Lib. II, Eleg. XIX. Dryden mentions, "an easy Whetstone +whore."</li> +</ol> +</div> + +<div><span class="pgnm">114</span><a id="page_114" name="page_114"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">EPILOGUE.<br /> +SPOKEN BY LIMBERHAM.</h3> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>I beg a boon, that, ere you all disband,</p> +<p>Some one would take my bargain off my hand:</p> +<p>To keep a punk is but a common evil;</p> +<p>To find her false, and marry,—that's the devil.</p> +<p>Well, I ne'er acted part in all my life,</p> +<p>But still I was fobbed off with some such wife.</p> +<p>I find the trick; these poets take no pity</p> +<p>Of one that is a member of the city.</p> +<p>We cheat you lawfully, and in our trades;</p> +<p>You cheat us basely with your common jades.</p> +<p>Now I am married, I must sit down by it;</p> +<p>But let me keep my dear-bought spouse in quiet.</p> +<p>Let none of you damned Woodalls of the pit,</p> +<p>Put in for shares to mend our breed in wit;</p> +<p>We know your bastards from our flesh and blood,</p> +<p>Not one in ten of yours e'er comes to good.</p> +<p>In all the boys, their fathers' virtues shine,</p> +<p>But all the female fry turn Pugs—like mine.</p> +<p>When these grow up, Lord, with what rampant gadders</p> +<p>Our counters will be thronged, and roads with padders!</p> +<p>This town two bargains has, not worth one farthing,—</p> +<p>A Smithfield horse, and wife of Covent-Garden<a class="ftnt" href="#Limbe_4-1">[1]</a>.</p> +</div> + +<div class="ftnt"> +<p>Footnote:</p> +<ol> +<li><a id="Limbe_4-1" name="Limbe_4-1"></a>Alluding to an old proverb, that whoso goes to Westminster for a wife, +to St Paul's for a man, and to Smithfield for a horse, may meet with a whore, +a knave, and a jade. Falstaff, on being informed that Bardolph is gone to +Smithfield to buy him a horse, observes, "I bought him in Paul's, and he'll buy +me a horse in Smithfield; an I could get me but a wife in the stews, I were +manned, horsed, and wived." <i>Second Part of Henry IV.</i> Act I. Scene II.</li> +</ol> +</div> + +<hr class="large" /> +<div><span class="pgnm">115</span><a id="page_115" name="page_115"></a></div> + +<h2 class="chap">ŒDIPUS.</h2> + +<h3>A<br /> +TRAGEDY.</h3> + +<div class="ctr"> +<table class="ctr" summary="Epigram"> +<tr><td><p class="epigram"><i>Hi proprium decus et partum indignantur honorem,<br /> +Ni teneant</i>—</p> +<p class="citation smcap">Virg.</p> +</td></tr></table> +<table class="ctr" summary="epigram"> +<tr><td><p><i>Vos exemplaria Græca<br /> +Nocturnâ versate manu, versate diurnâ.</i></p> +<p class="citation smcap">Horat.</p> +</td></tr> +</table> +</div> + +<div><span class="pgnm">116</span><a id="page_116" name="page_116"></a></div> +<div>[Blank Page]</div> +<div><span class="pgnm">117</span><a id="page_117" name="page_117"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">ŒDIPUS.</h3> + +<p>The dreadful subject of this piece has been celebrated by several +ancient and modern dramatists. Of seven tragedies of Sophocles +which have reached our times, two are founded on the history +of Œdipus. The first of these, called "Œdipus Tyrannus," has +been extolled by every critic since the days of Aristotle, for the +unparalleled art with which the story is managed. The dreadful +secret, the existence of which is announced by the pestilence, and +by the wrath of the offended deities, seems each moment on the +verge of being explained, yet, till the last act, the reader is still +held in horrible suspense. Every circumstance, resorted to for the +purpose of evincing the falsehood of the oracle, tends gradually +to confirm the guilt of Œdipus, and to accelerate the catastrophe; +while his own supposed consciousness of innocence, at once +interests us in his favour, and precipitates the horrible discovery. +Dryden, who arranged the whole plan of the following +tragedy, although assisted by Lee in the execution, was fully +aware of the merit of the "Œdipus Tyrannus;" and, with the +addition of the under-plot of Adrastus and Eurydice, has traced out +the events of the drama, in close imitation of Sophocles. The +Grecian bard, however, in concurrence with the history or tradition +of Greece, has made Œdipus survive the discovery of his unintentional +guilt, and reserved him, in blindness and banishment, +for the subject of his second tragedy of "Œdipus Coloneus." This +may have been well judged, considering that the audience were +intimately acquainted with the important scenes which were to +follow among the descendants of Œdipus, with the first and second +wars against Thebes, and her final conquest by the ancestors +of those Athenians, before whom the play was rehearsed, led +on by their demi-god Theseus. They were also prepared to receive, +with reverence and faith, the belief on which the whole interest +turns, that if Œdipus should be restored to Thebes, the vengeance +of the gods against the devoted city might be averted; and to applaud +his determination to remain on Athenian ground, that the predestined +curse might descend on his unnatural sons and ungrateful +country. But while the modern reader admires the lofty tone of poetry +and high strain of morality which pervades "Œdipus Coloneus," +it must appear more natural to his feelings, that the life of +<span class="pgnm">118</span><a id="page_118" name="page_118"></a> +the hero, stained with unintentional incest and parricide, should +be terminated, as in Dryden's play, upon the discovery of his complicated +guilt and wretchedness. Yet there is something awful in the +idea of the monarch, blind and exiled, innocent in intention, though +so horribly criminal in fact, devoted, as it were, to the infernal deities, +and sacred from human power and violence by the very excess +of his guilt and misery. The account of the death of Œdipus Coloneus +reaches the highest tone of sublimity. While the lightning +flashes around him, he expresses the feeling, that his hour is come; +and the reader anticipates, that, like Malefort in the "Unnatural +Combat," he is to perish by a thunder-bolt. Yet, for the awful +catastrophe, which we are artfully led to expect, is substituted a +mysterious termination, still more awful. Œdipus arrays himself +in splendid apparel, and dismisses his daughters and the attending +Athenians. Theseus alone remains with him. The storm subsides, +and the attendants return to the place, but Œdipus is there +no longer—he had not perished by water, by sword, nor by fire—no +one but Theseus knew the manner of his death. With an impressive +hint, that it was as strange and wonderful as his life had been +dismally eventful, the poet drops a curtain over the fate of his +hero. This last sublime scene Dryden has not ventured to imitate; +and the rants of Lee are a poor substitute for the calm and +determined despair of the "Œdipus Coloneus."</p> + +<p>Seneca, perhaps to check the seeds of vice in Nero, his pupil, +to whom incest and blood were afterwards so familiar<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_1-1">[1]</a>, composed +the Latin tragedy on the subject of Œdipus, which is alluded to by +Dryden in the following preface. The cold declamatory rhetorical +stile of that philosopher was adapted precisely to counteract +the effect, which a tale of terror produces on the feelings and +imagination. His taste exerted itself in filling up and garnishing +the more trifling passages, which Sophocles had passed over as unworthy +of notice, and in adjusting incidents laid in the heroic age +of Grecian simplicity, according to the taste and customs of the +court of Nero<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_1-2">[2]</a>. Yet though devoid of dramatic effect, of +fancy, and of genius, the Œdipus of Seneca displays the masculine +eloquence and high moral sentiment of its author; and if +it does not interest us in the scene of fiction, it often compels us +to turn our thoughts inward, and to study our own hearts.</p> + +<p><span class="pgnm">119</span><a id="page_119" name="page_119"></a> +The Œdipe of Corneille is in all respects unworthy of its great +author. The poet considering, as he states in his introduction, +that the subject of Œdipus tearing out his eyes was too horrible +to be presented before ladies, qualifies its terrors by the introduction +of a love intrigue betwixt Theseus and Dirce. The unhappy +propensity of the French poets to introduce long discussions upon +<i>la belle passion</i>, addressed merely to the understanding, without +respect to feeling or propriety, is nowhere more ridiculously displayed +than in "Œdipe." The play opens with the following polite +speech of Theseus to Dirce:</p> + +<div class="poem pi"> +<p>N'ecoutez plus, madame, une pitie cruelle,</p> +<p>Qui d'un fidel amant vous ferait un rebelle:</p> +<p>La gloire d'obeir n'a rien que me soit doux,</p> +<p>Lorsque vous m'ordonnez de m'eloigner de vous.</p> +<p>Quelque ravage affreux qu'etale ici la peste,</p> +<p>L'absence aux vrais amans est encore plus funeste;</p> +<p>Et d'un si grand peril l'image s'offre en vain,</p> +<p>Quand ce peril douteux epargne un mal certain.</p> +<p class="citation" style="font-style: normal;">Act premiere, Scene premiere.</p> +</div> + +<p>It is hardly possible more prettily to jingle upon the <i>peril douteux</i>, +and the <i>mal certain</i>; but this is rather an awkward way of introducing +the account of the pestilence, with which all the other +dramatists have opened their scene. Œdipus, however, is at once +sensible of the cause which detained Theseus at his melancholy +court, amidst the horrors of the plague:</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<p><i>Je l'avais bien juge qu'</i> un interet d'amour</p> +<p><i>Fermait ici vos yeux aux perils de ma cour.</i></p> +</div> + +<p class="noind"><i>Œdipo conjectere opus est</i>—it would have been difficult for any +other person to have divined such a motive. The conduct of the +drama is exactly suitable to its commencement; the fate of Œdipus +and of Thebes, the ravages of the pestilence, and the avenging +of the death of Laius, are all secondary and subordinate considerations +to the loves of Theseus and Dirce, as flat and uninteresting +a pair as ever spoke <i>platitudes</i> in French hexameters. +So much is this the engrossing subject of the drama, that Œdipus, +at the very moment when Tiresias is supposed to be engaged in +raising the ghost of Laius, occupies himself in a long scene of +scolding about love and duty with Dirce; and it is not till he is +almost bullied by her off the stage, that he suddenly recollects, +as an apology for his retreat,</p> + +<div class="poem pi"> +<p>Mais il faut aller voir ce qu'a fait Tiresias.</p> +</div> + +<p>Considering, however, the declamatory nature of the French +dialogue, and the peremptory rule of their drama, that love, or +rather gallantry, must be the moving principle of every performance, +<span class="pgnm">120</span><a id="page_120" name="page_120"></a> +it is more astonishing that Corneille should have chosen so masculine +and agitating a subject, than that he should have failed in +treating it with propriety or success.</p> + +<p>In the following tragedy, Dryden has avowedly adopted the +Greek model; qualified, however, by the under plot of Adrastus +and Eurydice, which contributes little either to the effect or merit +of the play. Creon, in his ambition and his deformity, is a poor +copy of Richard III., without his abilities; his plots and treasons +are baffled by the single appearance of Œdipus; and as for the +loves and woes of Eurydice, and the prince of Argos, they are lost +in the horrors of the principal story, like the moonlight amid the +glare of a conflagration. In other respects, the conduct of the +piece closely follows the "Œdipus Tyrannus," and, in some respects, +even improves on that excellent model. The Tiresias of Sophocles, +for example, upon his first introduction, denounces Œdipus as +the slayer of Laius, braves his resentment, and prophesies his miserable +catastrophe. In Dryden's play, the first anathema of the +prophet is levelled only against the unknown murderer; and it is +not till the powers of hell have been invoked, that even the eye +of the prophet can penetrate the horrible veil, and fix the guilt +decisively upon Œdipus. By this means, the striking quarrel betwixt +the monarch and Tiresias is, with great art, postponed to +the third act; and the interest, of course, is more gradually heightened +than in the Grecian tragedy.</p> + +<p>The first and third acts, which were wholly written by Dryden, +maintain a decided superiority over the rest of the piece. Yet +there are many excellent passages scattered through Lee's scenes; +and as the whole was probably corrected by Dryden, the tragedy +has the appearance of general consistence and uniformity. There +are several scenes, in which Dryden seems to have indulged his +newly adopted desire of imitating the stile of Shakespeare. Such +are, in particular, the scene of Œdipus walking in his sleep, +which bears marks of Dryden's pen; and such, also, is the incantation +in the third act. Seneca and Corneille have thrown this +last scene into narrative. Yet, by the present large size of our +stages, and the complete management of light and shade, the incantation +might be represented with striking effect; an advantage +which, I fear, has been gained by the sacrifice of others, much +more essential to the drama, considered as a dignified and rational +amusement. The incantation itself is nobly written, and +the ghost of Laius can only be paralleled in Shakespeare.</p> + +<p>The language of Œdipus is, in general, nervous, pure, and elegant; +and the dialogue, though in so high a tone of passion, is +natural and affecting. Some of Lee's extravagancies are lamentable +exceptions to this observation. This may be instanced in the +passage, where Jocasta threatens to fire Olympus, destroy the heavenly +<span class="pgnm">121</span><a id="page_121" name="page_121"></a> +furniture, and smoke the deities <i>like bees out of their ambrosial +hives</i>; and such is the still more noted wish of Œdipus;</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>Through all the inmost chambers of the sky,</p> +<p>May there not be a glimpse, one starry spark,</p> +<p>But gods meet gods, and jostle in the dark!</p> +</div> + +<p>These blemishes, however, are entitled to some indulgence from +the reader, when they occur in a work of real genius. Those, who +do not strive at excellence, will seldom fall into absurdity; as he, +who is contented to walk, is little liable to stumble.</p> + +<p>Notwithstanding the admirable disposition of the parts of this +play, the gradual increase of the interest, and the strong impassioned +language of the dialogue, the disagreeable nature of the +plot forms an objection to its success upon a British stage. Distress, +which turns upon the involutions of unnatural or incestuous +passion, carries with it something too disgusting for the sympathy +of a refined age; whereas, in a simple state of society, the feelings +require a more powerful stimulus; as we see the vulgar crowd +round an object of real horror, with the same pleasure we reap +from seeing it represented on a theatre. Besides, in ancient times, +in those of the Roman empire at least, such abominations really +occurred, as sanctioned the story of Œdipus. But the change of +manners has introduced not only greater purity of moral feeling, +but a sensibility, which retreats with abhorrence even from a +fiction turning upon such circumstances. Hence, Garrick, who +well knew the taste of an English audience, renounced his intention +of reviving the excellent old play of "King and no King;" +and hence Massinger's still more awful tragedy of "The Unnatural +Combat," has been justly deemed unfit for a modern stage. +Independent of this disgusting circumstance, it may be questioned +Whether the horror of this tragedy is not too powerful for +furnishing mere amusement? It is said in the "Companion to the +Playhouse," that when the piece was performing at Dublin, a musician, +in the orchestra, was so powerfully affected by the madness +of Œdipus, as to become himself actually delirious: and though +this may be exaggerated, it is certain, that, when the play was revived +about thirty years ago, the audience were unable to support +it to an end; the boxes being all emptied before the third act was +concluded. Among all our English plays, there is none more determinedly +bloody than "Œdipus," in its progress and conclusion. +The entrance of the unfortunate king, with his eyes torn from +their sockets, is too disgusting for representation<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_1-3">[3]</a>. Of all the +<span class="pgnm">122</span><a id="page_122" name="page_122"></a> +persons of the drama, scarce one survives the fifth act. Œdipus +dashes out his brains, Jocasta stabs herself, their children are +strangled, Creon kills Eurydice, Adrastus kills Creon, and the +insurgents kill Adrastus; when we add to this, that the conspirators +are hanged, the reader will perceive, that the play, which +began with a pestilence, concludes with a massacre,</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>And darkness is the burier of the dead.</p> +</div> + +<p>Another objection to Œdipus has been derived from the doctrine +of fatalism, inculcated by the story. There is something of +cant in talking much upon the influence of a theatre on public +morals; yet, I fear, though the most moral plays are incapable +of doing much good, the turn of others may make a mischievous +impression, by embodying in verse, and rendering apt for the memory, +maxims of an impious or profligate tendency. In this +point of view, there is, at least, no edification in beholding the horrible +crimes unto which Œdipus is unwillingly plunged, and in +witnessing the dreadful punishment he sustains, though innocent +of all moral or intentional guilt, Corneille has endeavoured to +counterbalance the obvious conclusion, by a long tirade upon free-will, +which I have subjoined, as it contains some striking ideas.<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_1-4">[4]</a> +But the doctrine, which it expresses, is contradictory of the whole +<span class="pgnm">123</span><a id="page_123" name="page_123"></a> +tenor of the story; and the correct deduction is much more justly +summed up by Seneca, in the stoical maxim of necessity:</p> + +<div class="poem pi"> +<p>Fatis agimur, cedite Fatis;</p> +<p>Non solicitæ possunt curæ,</p> +<p>Mutare rati stamina fusi;</p> +<p>Quicquid patimur mortale genus,</p> +<p>Quicquid facimus venit ex alto;</p> +<p>Servatque sua decreta colus,</p> +<p>Lachesis dura revoluta manu.</p> +</div> + +<p>Some degree of poetical justice might have been preserved, and +a valuable moral inculcated, had the conduct of Œdipus, in his +combat with Laius, been represented as atrocious, or, at least, unwarrantable; +as the sequel would then have been a warning, how +impossible it is to calculate the consequences or extent of a single +act of guilt. But, after all, Dryden perhaps extracts the true +moral, while stating our insufficiency to estimate the distribution +of good and evil in human life, in a passage, which, in excellent +poetry, expresses more sound truth, than a whole shelf of philosophers:</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>The Gods are just—</p> +<p>But how can finite measure infinite?</p> +<p>Reason! alas, it does not know itself!</p> +<p>Yet man, vain man, would, with this, short-lined plummet,</p> +<p>Fathom the vast abyss of heavenly justice.</p> +<p>Whatever is, is in its causes just,</p> +<p>Since all things are by fate. But purblind man</p> +<p>Sees but a part o'the chain; the nearest links;</p> +<p>His eyes not carrying to that equal beam,</p> +<p>That poises all above.—</p> +</div> + +<p>The prologue states, that the play, if damned, may be recorded +as the "first buried since the Woollen Act." This enables us to +fix the date of the performance. By the 30th Charles II. cap. +3. all persons were appointed to be buried in woollen after 1st +August, 1678. The play must therefore have been represented +early in the season 1678-9. It was not printed until 1679.</p> + +<div class="ftnt"> +<p>Footnotes:</p> +<ol> +<li><a id="OEdip_1-1" name="OEdip_1-"></a>Nero is said to have represented the character of Œdipus, amongst others +of the same horrible cast.—<i>Suetonius,</i> Lib. VI. Cap. 21.</li> + +<li><a id="OEdip_1-2" name="OEdip_1-"></a>Thus Seneca is justly ridiculed by Dacier, for sending Laius forth with +a numerous party of guards, to avoid the indecorum of a king going abroad +too slenderly attended. The guards lose their way within a league of their +master's capital; and, by this awkward contrivance, their absence is accounted +for, when he is met by Œdipus.</li> + +<li><a id="OEdip_1-3" name="OEdip_1-"></a>Voltaire, however, held a different opinion. He thought a powerful +effect might be produced by the exhibition of the blind king, indistinctly seen in +the back ground, amid the shrieks of Jocasta, and the exclamations of the +Thebans; provided the actor was capable of powerful gesture, and of expressing +much passion, with little declamation.</li> + +<li><a id="OEdip_1-4" name="OEdip_1-"></a><div class="poem pi"> +<p>Quoi! la necessite des vertus et des vices</p> +<p>D'un astre imperieux doit suivre les caprices?</p> +<p>Et Delphes malgré nous conduit nos actions</p> +<p>Au plus bizarre effet de ses predictions?</p> +<p>L'ame est donc toute esclave; une loi soveraine</p> +<p>Vers le bien ou le mal incessamment l'entraine;</p> +<p>Et nous recevons ni crainte ni desir,</p> +<p>De cette liberté qui n'a rien a choisir;</p> +<p>Attachés sans relache á cet ordre sublime,</p> +<p>Vertueux sans merite, et vicieux sans crime;</p> +<p>Qu'on massare les rois, qu'on brise les autels,</p> +<p>C'est la faute des dieux, et non pas des mortels;</p> +<p>De toute la vertu sur la terre epandue</p> +<p>Tout le prix ces dieux, toute la gloire est due;</p> +<p>Ils agissent en nous, quand nous pensons agir,</p> +<p>Alons qu'on delibere, on ne fait qu'obeir;</p> +<p>Et notre volonté n'aime, hait, cherche, evite,</p> +<p>Que suivant que d'en haut leur bras la precipite!</p> +<p class="i1">D'un tel aveuglement daignez me dispenser</p> +<p>Le ciel juste a punir, juste a recompenser,</p> +<p>Pour rendre aux actions leur peine ou leur salaire,</p> +<p>Doit nous offrir son aide et puis nous laisser faire.</p> +</div></li> +</ol> +</div> + +<div><span class="pgnm">124</span><a id="page_124" name="page_124"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">PREFACE.</h3> + +<p>Though it be dangerous to raise too great an expectation, +especially in works of this nature, where +we are to please an insatiable audience, yet it is +reasonable to prepossess them in favour of an author; +and therefore, both the prologue and epilogue informed +you, that Œdipus was the most celebrated +piece of all antiquity; that Sophocles, not only the +greatest wit, but one of the greatest men in Athens, +made it for the stage at the public cost; and that it +had the reputation of being his masterpiece, not +only among the seven of his which are still remaining, +but of the greater number which are perished. +Aristotle has more than once admired it, in his Book +of Poetry; Horace has mentioned it: Lucullus, Julius +Cæsar, and other noble Romans, have written on +the same subject, though their poems are wholly +lost; but Seneca's is still preserved. In our own +age, Corneille has attempted it, and, it appears by +his preface, with great success. But a judicious +reader will easily observe, how much the copy is +inferior to the original. He tells you himself, that +he owes a great part of his success, to the happy +episode of Theseus and Dirce; which is the same +thing, as if we should acknowledge, that we were +<span class="pgnm">125</span><a id="page_125" name="page_125"></a> +indebted for our good fortune to the under-plot of +Adrastus, Eurydice, and Creon. The truth is, he +miserably failed in the character of his hero: If he +desired that Œdipus should be pitied, he should +have made him a better man. He forgot, that Sophocles +had taken care to show him, in his first entrance, +a just, a merciful, a successful, a religious +prince, and, in short, a father of his country. Instead +of these, he has drawn him suspicious, designing, +more anxious of keeping the Theban crown, +than solicitous for the safety of his people; hectored +by Theseus, condemned by Dirce, and scarce maintaining +a second part in his own tragedy. This was +an error in the first concoction; and therefore never +to be mended in the second or the third. He introduced +a greater hero than Œdipus himself; for when +Theseus was once there, that companion of Hercules +must yield to none. The poet was obliged to +furnish him with business, to make him an equipage +suitable to his dignity; and, by following him too +close, to lose his other king of Brentford in the +crowd. Seneca, on the other side, as if there were +no such thing as nature to be minded in a play, is +always running after pompous expression, pointed +sentences, and philosophical notions, more proper for +the study than the stage: the Frenchman followed +a wrong scent; and the Roman was absolutely at +cold hunting. All we could gather out of Corneille +was, that an episode must be, but not his way: +and Seneca supplied us with no new hint, but only +a relation which he makes of his Tiresias raising the +ghost of Laius; which is here performed in view of +the audience,—the rites and ceremonies, so far his, as +he agreed with antiquity, and the religion of the +Greeks. But he himself was beholden to Homer's +Tiresias, in the "Odysses," for some of them; and the +rest have been collected from Heliodore's "Ethiopiques," +<span class="pgnm">126</span><a id="page_126" name="page_126"></a> +and Lucan's Erictho<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_2-1">[1]</a>. Sophocles, indeed, +is admirable everywhere; and therefore we have +followed him as close as possibly we could. But +the Athenian theatre, (whether more perfect than +ours, is not now disputed,) had a perfection differing +from ours. You see there in every act a single +scene, (or two at most,) which manage the business +of the play; and after that succeeds the chorus, +which commonly takes up more time in singing, +than there has been employed in speaking. The +principal person appears almost constantly through +the play; but the inferior parts seldom above once +in the whole tragedy. The conduct of our stage is +much more difficult, where we are obliged never to +lose any considerable character, which we have once +presented. Custom likewise has obtained, that we +must form an under-plot of second persons, which +must be depending on the first; and their by-walks +must be like those in a labyrinth, which all of them +lead into the great parterre; or like so many several +lodging chambers, which have their outlets into +the same gallery. Perhaps, after all, if we could +think so, the ancient method, as it is the easiest, is +also the most natural, and the best. For variety, +as it is managed, is too often subject to breed distraction; +and while we would please too many +<span class="pgnm">127</span><a id="page_127" name="page_127"></a> +ways, for want of art in the conduct, we please in +none<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_2-2">[2]</a>. But we have given you more already than +was necessary for a preface; and, for aught we know, +may gain no more by our instructions, than that +politic nation is like to do, who have taught their +enemies to fight so long, that at last they are in a +condition to invade them<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_2-3">[3]</a>.</p> + +<div class="ftnt"> +<p>Footnotes:</p> +<ol> +<li><a id="OEdip_2-1" name="OEdip_2-1"></a>Heliodorus, bishop of Trica, wrote a romance in Greek, called +the "Ethiopiques," containing the amours of Theagenes and +Chariclea. He was so fond of this production, that, the option +being proposed to him by a synod, he rather chose to resign his +bishopric than destroy his work. There occurs a scene of incantation +in this romance. The story of Lucan's witch occurs in +the sixth book of the Pharsalia. + +<p>Dryden has judiciously imitated Seneca, in representing necromancy +as the last resort of Tiresias, after all milder modes of augury +had failed.</p></li> + +<li><a id="OEdip_2-2" name="OEdip_2-2"></a>It had been much to be wished, that our author had preferred +his own better judgment, and the simplicity of the Greek plot, +to compliance with this foolish custom.</li> + +<li><a id="OEdip_2-3" name="OEdip_2-3"></a>This seems to allude to the French, who, after having repeatedly +reduced the Dutch to extremity, were about this period defeated +by the Prince of Orange, in the battle of Mons. See the +next note.</li> +</ol></div> + +<div><span class="pgnm">128</span><a id="page_128" name="page_128"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">PROLOGUE.</h3> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>When Athens all the Grecian slate did guide,</p> +<p>And Greece gave laws to all the world beside;</p> +<p>Then Sophocles with Socrates did sit,</p> +<p>Supreme in wisdom one, and one in wit:</p> +<p>And wit from wisdom differed not in those,</p> +<p>But as 'twas sung in verse, or said in prose.</p> +<p>Then, Œdipus, on crowded theatres,</p> +<p>Drew all admiring eyes and list'ning ears:</p> +<p>The pleased spectator shouted every line,</p> +<p>The noblest, manliest, and the best design!</p> +<p>And every critic of each learned age,</p> +<p>By this just model has reformed the stage.</p> +<p>Now, should it fail, (as heaven avert our fear!)</p> +<p>Damn it in silence, lest the world should hear.</p> +<p>For were it known this poem did not please,</p> +<p>You might set up for perfect savages:</p> +<p>Your neighbours would not look on you as men,</p> +<p>But think the nation all turned Picts again.</p> +<p>Faith, as you manage matters, 'tis not fit</p> +<p>You should suspect yourselves of too much wit:</p> +<p>Drive not the jest too far, but spare this piece;</p> +<p>And, for this once, be not more wise than Greece.</p> +<p>See twice! do not pell-mell to damning fall,</p> +<p>Like true-born Britons, who ne'er think at all:</p> +<p>Pray be advised; and though at Mons<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_3-1">[1]</a> you won,</p> +<p>On pointed cannon do not always run.</p> +<p><span class="pgnm">129</span><a id="page_129" name="page_129"></a> +With some respect to ancient wit proceed;</p> +<p>You take the four first councils for your creed.</p> +<p>But, when you lay tradition wholly by,</p> +<p>And on the private spirit alone rely,</p> +<p>You turn fanatics in your poetry.</p> +<p>If, notwithstanding all that we can say,</p> +<p>You needs will have your penn'orths of the play,</p> +<p>And come resolved to damn, because you pay,</p> +<p>Record it, in memorial of the fact,</p> +<p>The first play buried since the woollen act.</p> +</div> + +<div class="ftnt"> +<p>Footnote:</p> +<ol> +<li><a id="OEdip_3-1" name="OEdip_3-1"></a>On the 17th of August, 1678, the Prince of Orange, afterwards William +III. marched to the attack of the French army, which blockaded Mons, and +lay secured by the most formidable entrenchments. Notwithstanding a +powerful and well-served artillery, the duke of Luxemburgh was forced to +abandon his trenches, and retire with great loss. The English and Scottish +regiments, under the gallant earl of Ossory, had their full share in the glory +of the day. It is strongly suspected, that the Prince of Orange, when he undertook +this perilous atchievement, knew that a peace had been signed betwixt +France and the States, though the intelligence was not made public till +next day. Carleton says, that the troops, when drawn up for the attack, supposed +the purpose was to fire a <i>feu-de-joie</i> for the conclusion of the war. The +enterprize, therefore, though successful, was needless as well as desperate, +and merited Dryden's oblique censure.</li> +</ol></div> + +<div><span class="pgnm">130</span><a id="page_130" name="page_130"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">DRAMATIS PERSONÆ.</h3> + +<p class="noind" style="margin-bottom: 0;"><span class="smcap">Œdipus,</span> <i>King of Thebes.</i><br /> +<span class="smcap">Adrastus,</span> <i>Prince of Argos.</i><br /> +<span class="smcap">Creon,</span> <i>Brother to</i> <span class="smcap">Jocasta.</span><br /> +<span class="smcap">Tiresias,</span> <i>a blind Prophet.</i><br /> +<span class="smcap">Hæmon,</span> <i>Captain of the Guard.</i></p> +<table class="dpgrp" summary="Alcander, Diocles, Pyracmon"> +<tr> +<td class="smcap">Alcander,<br /> +Diocles,<br /> +Pyracmon,</td> +<td>}<br /> +}<br /> +}</td> +<td> +<i>Lords of</i> <span class="smcap">Creon's</span> <i>faction.</i> +</td></tr> +</table> +<p class="noind" style="margin-top: 0;"><span class="smcap">Phorbas,</span> <i>an old Shepherd.</i><br /> +<span class="smcap">Dymas,</span> <i>the Messenger returned from Delphos.</i><br /> +<span class="smcap">Ægeon,</span> <i>the Corinthian Embassador.</i><br /> +<i>Ghost of</i> <span class="smcap">Laius,</span> <i>the late King of Thebes.</i></p> + +<p class="noind"><span class="smcap">Jocasta,</span> <i>Queen of Thebes.</i><br /> +<span class="smcap">Eurydice,</span> <i>her Daughter, by</i> <span class="smcap">Laius,</span> <i>her first husband.</i><br /> +<span class="smcap">Manto,</span> <i>Daughter of</i> <span class="smcap">Tiresias.</span></p> + +<p class="noind"><i>Priests, Citizens, Attendants,</i> &c.</p> + +<p>SCENE—<i>Thebes.</i></p> + +<div><span class="pgnm">131</span><a id="page_131" name="page_131"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">ŒDIPUS.</h3> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT I.<br /> +SCENE I.—<i>The Curtain rises to a plaintive Tune, +representing the present condition of Thebes; dead +Bodies appear at a distance in the Streets; some +faintly go over the Stage, others drop.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Alcander, Diocles,</span> and <span class="cnm">Pyracmon.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alc.</span> Methinks we stand on ruins; nature shakes<br /> +About us; and the universal frame<br /> +So loose, that it but wants another push,<br /> +To leap from off its hinges.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> No sun to cheer us; but a bloody globe,<br /> +That rolls above, a bald and beamless fire,<br /> +His face o'er-grown with scurf: The sun's sick, too;<br /> +Shortly he'll be an earth.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pyr.</span> Therefore the seasons<br /> +Lie all confused; and, by the heavens neglected,<br /> +Forget themselves: Blind winter meets the summer<br /> +In his mid-way, and, seeing not his livery,<br /> +Has driven him headlong back; and the raw damps,<br /> +With flaggy wings, fly heavily about,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">132</span><a id="page_132" name="page_132"></a> +Scattering their pestilential colds and rheums<br /> +Through all the lazy air.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alc.</span> Hence murrains followed<br /> +On bleating flocks, and on the lowing herds:<br /> +At last, the malady<br /> +Grew more domestic, and the faithful dog<br /> +Died at his master's feet<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_4-1">[1]</a>.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> And next, his master:<br /> +For all those plagues, which earth and air had brooded,<br /> +First on inferior creatures tried their force,<br /> +And last they seized on man.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pyr.</span> And then a thousand deaths at once advanced,<br /> +And every dart took place; all was so sudden,<br /> +That scarce a first man fell; one but began<br /> +To wonder, and straight fell a wonder too;<br /> +A third, who stooped to raise his dying friend,<br /> +Dropt in the pious act.—Heard you that groan?<span class="sdr">[Groan within.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> A troop of ghosts took flight together there.<br /> +Now death's grown riotous, and will play no more<br /> +For single stakes, but families and tribes.<br /> +How are we sure we breathe not now our last,<br /> +And that, next minute,<br /> +Our bodies, cast into some common pit,<br /> +Shall not be built upon, and overlaid<br /> +By half a people?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alc.</span> There's a chain of causes<br /> +Linked to effects; invincible necessity,<br /> +That whate'er is, could not but so have been;<br /> +That's my security.</p> + +<p class="sdn">To them, enter <span class="cnm">Creon.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> So had it need, when all our streets lie covered<br /> +<span class="pgnm">133</span><a id="page_133" name="page_133"></a> +With dead and dying men;<br /> +And earth exposes bodies on the pavements,<br /> +More than she hides in graves.<br /> +Betwixt the bride and bridegroom have I seen<br /> +The nuptial torch do common offices<br /> +Of marriage and of death.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> Now Œdipus<br /> +(If he return from war, our other plague)<br /> +Will scarce find half he left, to grace his triumphs.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pyr.</span> A feeble pæan will be sung before him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alc.</span> He would do well to bring the wives and children<br /> +Of conquered Argians, to renew his Thebes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> May funerals meet him at the city gates,<br /> +With their detested omen!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> Of his children.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Nay, though she be my sister, of his wife.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alc.</span> O that our Thebes might once again behold<br /> +A monarch, Theban born!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> We might have had one.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pyr.</span> Yes, had the people pleased.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Come, you are my friends:<br /> +The queen my sister, after Laius' death,<br /> +Feared to lie single; and supplied his place<br /> +With a young successor.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> He much resembles<br /> +Her former husband too.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alc.</span> I always thought so.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pyr.</span> When twenty winters more have grizzled his black locks,<br /> +He will be very Laius.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> So he will.<br /> +Meantime, she stands provided of a Laius,<br /> +More young, and vigorous too, by twenty springs.<br /> +These women are such cunning purveyors!<br /> +Mark, where their appetites have once been pleased,<br /> +The same resemblance, in a younger lover,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">134</span><a id="page_134" name="page_134"></a> +Lies brooding in their fancies the same pleasures,<br /> +And urges their remembrance to desire.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> Had merit, not her dotage, been considered;<br /> +Then Creon had been king; but Œdipus,<br /> +A stranger!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> That word, <i>stranger</i>, I confess,<br /> +Sounds harshly in my ears.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> We are your creatures.<br /> +The people, prone, as in all general ills,<br /> +To sudden change; the king, in wars abroad;<br /> +The queen, a woman weak and unregarded;<br /> +Eurydice, the daughter of dead Laius,<br /> +A princess young and beauteous, and unmarried,—<br /> +Methinks, from these disjointed propositions,<br /> +Something might be produced.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> The gods have done<br /> +Their part, by sending this commodious plague.<br /> +But oh, the princess! her hard heart is shut<br /> +By adamantine locks against my love.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alc.</span> Your claim to her is strong; you are betrothed.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pyr.</span> True, in her nonage.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> I heard the prince of Argos, young Adrastus,<br /> +When he was hostage here—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Oh name him not! the bane of all my hopes.<br /> +That hot-brained, head-long warrior, has the charms<br /> +Of youth, and somewhat of a lucky rashness,<br /> +To please a woman yet more fool than he.<br /> +That thoughtless sex is caught by outward form.<br /> +And empty noise, and loves itself in man.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alc.</span> But since the war broke out about our frontiers,<br /> +He's now a foe to Thebes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> But is not so to her. See, she appears;<br /> +Once more I'll prove my fortune. You insinuate<br /> +Kind thoughts of me into the multitude;<br /> +Lay load upon the court; gull them with freedom;<br /> +And you shall see them toss their tails, and gad,<br /> +As if the breeze had stung them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">135</span><a id="page_135" name="page_135"></a> +<span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> We'll about it. +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Alc. Dioc.</span> and <span class="cnm">Pyr.</span></span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Eurydice.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Hail, royal maid! thou bright Eurydice,<br /> +A lavish planet reigned when thou wert born,<br /> +And made thee of such kindred mould to heaven,<br /> +Thou seem'st more heaven's than ours.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Cast round your eyes,<br /> +Where late the streets were so thick sown with men,<br /> +Like Cadmus' brood, they jostled for the passage;<br /> +Now look for those erected heads, and see them,<br /> +Like pebbles, paving all our public ways;<br /> +When you have thought on this, then answer me,—<br /> +If these be hours of courtship?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Yes, they are;<br /> +For when the gods destroy so fast, 'tis time<br /> +We should renew the race.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> What, in the midst of horror?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Why not then?<br /> +There's the more need of comfort.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Impious Creon!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Unjust Eurydice! can you accuse me<br /> +Of love, which is heaven's precept, and not fear<br /> +That vengeance, which you say pursues our crimes,<br /> +Should reach your perjuries?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Still the old argument.<br /> +I bade you cast your eyes on other men,<br /> +Now cast them on yourself; think what you are.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> A man.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> A man!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Why, doubt you I'm a man?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> 'Tis well you tell me so; I should mistake you<br /> +For any other part o'the whole creation,<br /> +Rather than think you man. Hence from my sight,<br /> +Thou poison to my eyes!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">136</span><a id="page_136" name="page_136"></a> +<span class="cnm">Cre.</span> 'Twas you first poisoned mine; and yet, methinks,<br /> +My face and person should not make you sport.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> You force me, by your importunities,<br /> +To shew you what you are.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> A prince, who loves you;<br /> +And, since your pride provokes me, worth your love.<br /> +Even at its highest value.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Love from thee!<br /> +Why love renounced thee ere thou saw'st the light;<br /> +Nature herself start back when thou wert born,<br /> +And cried,—the work's not mine.<br /> +The midwife stood aghast; and when she saw<br /> +Thy mountain back, and thy distorted legs,<br /> +Thy face itself;<br /> +Half-minted with the royal stamp of man,<br /> +And half o'ercome with beast, stood doubting long,<br /> +Whose right in thee were more;<br /> +And knew not, if to burn thee in the flames<br /> +Were not the holier work.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Am I to blame, if nature threw my body<br /> +In so perverse a mould? yet when she cast<br /> +Her envious hand upon my supple joints,<br /> +Unable to resist, and rumpled them<br /> +On heaps in their dark lodging, to revenge<br /> +Her bungled work, she stampt my mind more fair;<br /> +And as from chaos, huddled and deformed,<br /> +The god struck fire, and lighted up the lamps<br /> +That beautify the sky, so he informed<br /> +This ill-shaped body with a daring soul;<br /> +And, making less than man, he made me more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> No; thou art all one error, soul and body;<br /> +The first young trial of some unskilled power,<br /> +Rude in the making art, and ape of Jove.<br /> +Thy crooked mind within hunched out thy back,<br /> +And wandered in thy limbs. To thy own kind<br /> +Make love, if thou canst find it in the world;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">137</span><a id="page_137" name="page_137"></a> +And seek not from our sex to raise an offspring,<br /> +Which, mingled with the rest, would tempt the gods,<br /> +To cut off human kind.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> No; let them leave<br /> +The Argian prince for you. That enemy<br /> +Of Thebes has made you false, and break the vows<br /> +You made to me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> They were my mother's vows,<br /> +Made when I was at nurse.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> But hear me, maid:<br /> +This blot of nature, this deformed, loathed Creon,<br /> +Is master of a sword, to reach the blood<br /> +Of your young minion, spoil the gods' fine work,<br /> +And stab you in his heart.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> This when thou dost,<br /> +Then mayst thou still be cursed with loving me;<br /> +And, as thou art, be still unpitied, loathed;<br /> +And let his ghost—No, let his ghost have rest—<br /> +But let the greatest, fiercest, foulest fury,<br /> +Let Creon haunt himself.<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Eur.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> 'Tis true, I am<br /> +What she has told me—an offence to sight:<br /> +My body opens inward to my soul,<br /> +And lets in day to make my vices seen<br /> +By all discerning eyes, but the blind vulgar.<br /> +I must make haste, ere Œdipus return,<br /> +To snatch the crown and her—for I still love,<br /> +But love with malice. As an angry cur<br /> +Snarls while he feeds, so will I seize and stanch<br /> +The hunger of my love on this proud beauty,<br /> +And leave the scraps for slaves.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Tiresias,</span> leaning on a staff, and led by his +Daughter <span class="cnm">Manto.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg">What makes this blind prophetic fool abroad?<br /> +Would his Apollo had him! he's too holy<br /> +<span class="pgnm">138</span><a id="page_138" name="page_138"></a> +For earth and me; I'll shun his walk, and seek<br /> +My popular friends.<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Creon.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> A little farther; yet a little farther,<br /> +Thou wretched daughter of a dark old man,<br /> +Conduct my weary steps: And thou, who seest<br /> +For me and for thyself, beware thou tread not,<br /> +With impious steps, upon dead corps. Now stay;<br /> +Methinks I draw more open, vital air.<br /> +Where are we?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Man.</span> Under covert of a wall;<br /> +The most frequented once, and noisy part<br /> +Of Thebes; now midnight silence reigns even here,<br /> +And grass untrodden springs beneath our feet.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> If there be nigh this place a sunny bank,<br /> +There let me rest awhile:—A sunny bank!<br /> +Alas! how can it be, where no sun shines,<br /> +But a dim winking taper in the skies,<br /> +That nods, and scarce holds up his drowzy head,<br /> +To glimmer through the damps! +<span class="sdr">[A Noise within. <span style="font-style: normal;">Follow, follow, follow! A +Creon, A Creon, A Creon!</span></span><br /> +Hark! a tumultuous noise, and Creon's name<br /> +Thrice echoed.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Man.</span> Fly, the tempest drives this way.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Whither can age and blindness take their flight?<br /> +If I could fly, what could I suffer worse,<br /> +Secure of greater ills? +<span class="sdr">[Noise again, <span style="font-style: normal;">Creon, Creon, Creon!</span></span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Creon, Diocles, Alcander, Pyracmon;</span> +followed by the Crowd.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> I thank ye, countrymen; but must refuse<br /> +The honours you intend me; they're too great,<br /> +And I am too unworthy; think again,<br /> +And make a better choice.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">1 Cit.</span> Think twice! I ne'er thought twice in all my life;<br /> +That's double work.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">139</span><a id="page_139" name="page_139"></a> +<span class="cnm">2 Cit.</span> My first word is always my second; and +therefore I'll have no second word; and therefore, +once again, I say, A Creon!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">All.</span> A Creon, A Creon, A Creon!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Yet hear me, fellow-citizens.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> Fellow-citizens! there was a word of kindness!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alc.</span> When did Œdipus salute you by that familiar name?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">1 Cit.</span> Never, never; he was too proud.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Indeed he could not, for he was a stranger;<br /> +But under him our Thebes is half destroyed.<br /> +Forbid it, heaven, the residue should perish<br /> +Under a Theban born!<br /> +'Tis true, the gods might send this plague among you,<br /> +Because a stranger ruled; but what of that?<br /> +Can I redress it now?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">3 Cit.</span> Yes, you or none.<br /> +'Tis certain that the gods are angry with us,<br /> +Because he reigns.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Œdipus may return; you may be ruined.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">1 Cit.</span> Nay, if that be the matter, we are ruined already.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">2 Cit.</span> Half of us, that are here present, were +living men but yesterday; and we, that are absent, +do but drop and drop, and no man knows whether +he be dead or living. And therefore, while we are +sound and well, let us satisfy our consciences, and +make a new king.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">3 Cit.</span> Ha, if we were but worthy to see another +coronation! and then, if we must die, we'll go merrily +together.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">All.</span> To the question, to the question.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> Are you content, Creon should be your king?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">All</span> A Creon, A Creon, A Creon!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Hear me, ye Thebans, and thou Creon, hear me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">140</span><a id="page_140" name="page_140"></a> +<span class="cnm">1 Cit.</span> Who's that would be heard? we'll hear no +man; we can scarce hear one another.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> I charge you, by the gods, to hear me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">2 Cit.</span> Oh, it is Apollo's priest, we must hear +him; it is the old blind prophet, that sees all things.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">3 Cit.</span> He comes from the gods too, and they are +our betters; and, in good manners, we must hear +him:—Speak, prophet.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">2 Cit.</span> For coming from the gods, that's no great +matter, they can all say that: but he is a great +scholar; he can make almanacks, an' he were put +to it; and therefore I say, hear him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> When angry heaven scatters its plagues among you,<br /> +Is it for nought, ye Thebans? are the gods<br /> +Unjust in punishing? are there no crimes,<br /> +Which pull this vengeance down?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">1 Cit.</span> Yes, yes; no doubt there are some sins stirring, +that are the cause of all.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">3 Cit.</span> Yes, there are sins, or we should have no +taxes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">2 Cit.</span> For my part, I can speak it with a safe +conscience, I never sinned in all my life.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">1 Cit.</span> Nor I.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">3 Cit.</span> Nor I.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">2 Cit.</span> Then we are all justified; the sin lies not +at our doors.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> All justified alike, and yet all guilty!<br /> +Were every man's false dealing brought to light,<br /> +His envy, malice, lying, perjuries,<br /> +His weights and measures, the other man's extortions,<br /> +With what face could you tell offended heaven,<br /> +You had not sinned?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">2 Cit.</span> Nay, if these be sins, the case is altered; +for my part, I never thought any thing but murder +had been a sin.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">141</span><a id="page_141" name="page_141"></a> +<span class="cnm">Tir.</span> And yet, as if all these were less than nothing,<br /> +You add rebellion to them, impious Thebans!<br /> +Have you not sworn before the gods to serve<br /> +And to obey this Œdipus, your king<br /> +By public voice elected? answer me,<br /> +If this be true!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">2 Cit.</span> This is true; but its a hard world, neighbours,<br /> +If a man's oath must be his master.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Speak, Diocles; all goes wrong.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> How are you traitors, countrymen of Thebes?<br /> +This holy sire, who presses you with oaths,<br /> +Forgets your first; were you not sworn before<br /> +To Laius and his blood?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">All.</span> We were; we were.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> While Laius has a lawful successor,<br /> +Your first oath still must bind: Eurydice<br /> +Is heir to Laius; let her marry Creon.<br /> +Offended heaven will never be appeased,<br /> +While Œdipus pollutes the throne of Laius,<br /> +A stranger to his blood.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">All.</span> We'll no Œdipus, no Œdipus.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">1 Cit.</span> He puts the prophet in a mouse-hole.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">2 Cit.</span> I knew it would be so; the last man ever +speaks the best reason.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Can benefits thus die, ungrateful Thebans!<br /> +Remember yet, when, after Laius' death,<br /> +The monster Sphinx laid your rich country waste,<br /> +Your vineyards spoiled, your labouring oxen slew,<br /> +Yourselves for fear mewed up within your walls;<br /> +She, taller than your gates, o'er-looked your town;<br /> +But when she raised her bulk to sail above you,<br /> +She drove the air around her like a whirlwind,<br /> +And shaded all beneath; till, stooping down,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">142</span><a id="page_142" name="page_142"></a> +She clap'd her leathern wing against your towers,<br /> +And thrust out her long neck, even to your doors<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_4-2">[2]</a>.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc. Alc. Pyr.</span> We'll hear no more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> You durst not meet in temples,<br /> +To invoke the gods for aid; the proudest he,<br /> +Who leads you now, then cowered, like a dared<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_4-3">[3]</a> lark:<br /> +This Creon shook for fear,<br /> +The blood of Laius curdled in his veins,<br /> +'Till Œdipus arrived.<br /> +Called by his own high courage and the gods,<br /> +Himself to you a god, ye offered him<br /> +Your queen and crown; (but what was then your crown!)<br /> +And heaven authorized it by his success.<br /> +Speak then, who is your lawful king?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">All.</span> 'Tis Œdipus.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> 'Tis Œdipus indeed: Your king more lawful<br /> +Than yet you dream; for something still there lies<br /> +In heaven's dark volume, which I read through mists:<br /> +'Tis great, prodigious; 'tis a dreadful birth,<br /> +Of wondrous fate; and now, just now disclosing.<br /> +I see, I see! how terrible it dawns,<br /> +And my soul sickens with it!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">1 Cit.</span> How the god shakes him!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> He comes, he comes! Victory! conquest! triumph!<br /> +<span class="pgnm">143</span><a id="page_143" name="page_143"></a> +But oh! guiltless and guilty: murder! parricide!<br /> +Incest! discovery! punishment—'tis ended,<br /> +And all your sufferings o'er.</p> + +<p class="sdn">A Trumpet within: enter <span class="cnm">Hæmon.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> Rouse up, you Thebans; tune your <i>Io Pæans</i>!<br /> +Your king returns; the Argians are o'ercome;<br /> +Their warlike prince in single combat taken,<br /> +And led in bands by god-like Œdipus!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">All.</span> Œdipus, Œdipus, Œdipus!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Creon.</span> Furies confound his fortune!—<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /> +Haste, all haste,<span class="sdr">[To them.</span><br /> +And meet with blessings our victorious king;<br /> +Decree processions; bid new holidays;<br /> +Crown all the statues of our gods with garlands;<br /> +And raise a brazen column, thus inscribed,—<br /> +<i>To Œdipus, now twice a conqueror; deliverer of his Thebes.</i><br /> +Trust me, I weep for joy to see this day.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Yes, heaven knows why thou weep'st.—Go, countrymen,<br /> +And, as you use to supplicate your gods,<br /> +So meet your king with bays, and olive branches;<br /> +Bow down, and touch his knees, and beg from him<br /> +An end of all your woes; for only he<br /> +Can give it you. +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Tiresias,</span> the People following.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Œdipus</span> in triumph; <span class="cnm">Adrastus</span> prisoner; +<span class="cnm">Dymas,</span> Train.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> All hail, great Œdipus!<br /> +Thou mighty conqueror, hail; welcome to Thebes;<br /> +To thy own Thebes; to all that's left of Thebes;<br /> +For half thy citizens are swept away,<br /> +And wanting for thy triumphs;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">144</span><a id="page_144" name="page_144"></a> +And we, the happy remnant, only live<br /> +To welcome thee, and die.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Thus pleasure never comes sincere to man,<br /> +But lent by heaven upon hard usury;<br /> +And while Jove holds us out the bowl of joy,<br /> +Ere it can reach our lips, 'tis dashed with gall<br /> +By some left-handed god. O mournful triumph!<br /> +O conquest gained abroad, and lost at home!<br /> +O Argos, now rejoice, for Thebes lies low!<br /> +Thy slaughtered sons now smile, and think they won,<br /> +When they can count more Theban ghosts than theirs.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> No; Argos mourns with Thebes; you tempered so<br /> +Your courage while you fought, that mercy seemed<br /> +The manlier virtue, and much more prevailed;<br /> +While Argos is a people, think your Thebes<br /> +Can never want for subjects. Every nation<br /> +Will crowd to serve where Œdipus commands.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> [<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Hæm.</span></span>] +How mean it shews, to fawn upon the victor!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> Had you beheld him fight, you had said otherwise.<br /> +Come, 'tis brave bearing in him, not to envy<br /> +Superior virtue.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> This indeed is conquest,<br /> +To gain a friend like you: Why were we foes?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> 'Cause we were kings, and each disdained an equal.<br /> +I fought to have it in my power to do<br /> +What thou hast done, and so to use my conquest.<br /> +To shew thee, honour was my only motive,<br /> +Know this, that were my army at thy gates,<br /> +And Thebes thus waste, I would not take the gift,<br /> +Which, like a toy dropt from the hands of fortune,<br /> +Lay for the next chance-comer.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">145</span><a id="page_145" name="page_145"></a> +<span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> [<span class="sdm">Embracing.</span>] No more captive,<br /> +But brother of the war. 'Tis much more pleasant,<br /> +And safer, trust me, thus to meet thy love,<br /> +Than when hard gauntlets clenched our warlike hands,<br /> +And kept them from soft use.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> My conqueror!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> My friend! that other name keeps enmity alive.<br /> +But longer to detain thee were a crime;<br /> +To love, and to Eurydice, go free.<br /> +Such welcome, as a ruined town can give,<br /> +Expect from me; the rest let her supply.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> I go without a blush, though conquered twice,<br /> +By you, and by my princess.<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Adrastus.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Then I am conquered thrice; by Œdipus,<br /> +And her, and even by him, the slave of both.<br /> +Gods, I'm beholden to you, for making me your image;<br /> +Would I could make you mine!<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Creon.</span></span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter the People with branches in their hands, holding +them up, and kneeling: Two Priests before them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Alas, my people!<br /> +What means this speechless sorrow, downcast eyes,<br /> +And lifted hands? If there be one among you,<br /> +Whom grief has left a tongue, speak for the rest.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">1 Pr.</span> O father of thy country!<br /> +To thee these knees are bent, these eyes are lifted,<br /> +As to a visible divinity;<br /> +A prince, on whom heaven safely might repose<br /> +The business of mankind; for Providence<br /> +Might on thy careful bosom sleep secure,<br /> +And leave her task to thee.<br /> +But where's the glory of thy former acts?<br /> +Even that's destroyed, when none shall live to speak it.<br /> +Millions of subjects shalt thou have; but mute.<br /> +<span class="pgnm">146</span><a id="page_146" name="page_146"></a> +A people of the dead; a crowded desert;<br /> +A midnight silence at the noon of day.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> O were our gods as ready with their pity,<br /> +As I with mine, this presence should be thronged<br /> +With all I left alive; and my sad eyes<br /> +Not search in vain for friends, whose promised sight<br /> +Flattered my toils of war.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">1 Pr.</span> Twice our deliverer!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Nor are now your vows<br /> +Addrest to one who sleeps.<br /> +When this unwelcome news first reached my ears,<br /> +Dymas was sent to Delphos, to enquire<br /> +The cause and cure of this contagious ill,<br /> +And is this day returned; but, since his message<br /> +Concerns the public, I refused to hear it<br /> +But in this general presence: Let him speak.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dym.</span> A dreadful answer from the hallowed urn,<br /> +And sacred tripos, did the priestess give,<br /> +In these mysterious words.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">The Oracle.</span> <i>Shed in a cursed hour, by cursed hand,<br /> +Blood-royal unrevenged has cursed the land.<br /> +When Laius' death is expiated well,<br /> +Your plague shall cease. The rest let Laius tell.</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Dreadful indeed! Blood, and a king's blood too!<br /> +And such a king's, and by his subjects shed!<br /> +(Else why this curse on Thebes?) No wonder then<br /> +If monsters, wars, and plagues, revenge such crimes!<br /> +If heaven be just, its whole artillery,<br /> +All must be emptied on us: Not one bolt<br /> +Shall err from Thebes; but more be called for, more;<br /> +New-moulded thunder of a larger size,<br /> +Driven by whole Jove. What, touch anointed power!<br /> +Then, Gods, beware; Jove would himself be next,<br /> +Could you but reach him too.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">2 Pr.</span> We mourn the sad remembrance.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Well you may;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">147</span><a id="page_147" name="page_147"></a> +Worse than a plague infects you: You're devoted<br /> +To mother earth, and to the infernal powers;<br /> +Hell has a right in you. I thank you, gods,<br /> +That I'm no Theban born: How my blood curdles!<br /> +As if this curse touched me, and touched me nearer<br /> +Than all this presence!—Yes, 'tis a king's blood,<br /> +And I, a king, am tied in deeper bonds<br /> +To expiate this blood. But where, from whom,<br /> +Or how must I atone it? Tell me, Thebans,<br /> +How Laius fell; for a confused report<br /> +Passed through my ears, when first I took the crown;<br /> +But full of hurry, like a morning dream,<br /> +It vanished in the business of the day.<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_4-4">[4]</a></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">1 Pr.</span> He went in private forth, but thinly followed,<br /> +And ne'er returned to Thebes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Nor any from him? came there no attendant?<br /> +None to bring news?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">2 Pr.</span> But one; and he so wounded,<br /> +He scarce drew breath to speak some few faint words.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> What were they? something may be learnt from thence.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">1 Pr.</span> He said, a band of robbers watched their passage,<br /> +Who took advantage of a narrow way,<br /> +To murder Laius and the rest; himself<br /> +Left too for dead.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Made you no more enquiry,<br /> +But took this bare relation?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">2 Pr.</span> 'Twas neglected;<br /> +For then the monster Sphinx began to rage,<br /> +And present cares soon buried the remote:<br /> +So was it hushed, and never since revived.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">148</span><a id="page_148" name="page_148"></a> +<span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Mark, Thebans, mark!<br /> +Just then, the Sphinx began to rage among you;<br /> +The gods took hold even of the offending minute,<br /> +And dated thence your woes: Thence will I trace them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">1 Pr.</span> 'Tis just thou should'st.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Hear then this dreadful imprecation; hear it;<br /> +'Tis laid on all; not any one exempt:<br /> +Bear witness, heaven, avenge it on the perjured!<br /> +If any Theban born, if any stranger<br /> +Reveal this murder, or produce its author,<br /> +Ten attick talents be his just reward:<br /> +But if, for fear, for favour, or for hire,<br /> +The murderer he conceal, the curse of Thebes<br /> +Fall heavy on his head: Unite our plagues,<br /> +Ye gods, and place them there: From fire and water,<br /> +Converse, and all things common, be he banished.<br /> +But for the murderer's self, unfound by man,<br /> +Find him, ye powers celestial and infernal!<br /> +And the same fate, or worse than Laius met,<br /> +Let be his lot: His children be accurst;<br /> +His wife and kindred, all of his, be cursed!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Both Pr.</span> Confirm it, heaven!</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Jocasta,</span> attended by Women.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> At your devotions? Heaven succeed your wishes;<br /> +And bring the effect of these your pious prayers<br /> +On you, and me, and all.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pr.</span> Avert this omen, heaven!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> O fatal sound! unfortunate Jocasta!<br /> +What hast thou said! an ill hour hast thou chosen<br /> +For these fore-boding words! why, we were cursing!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Then may that curse fall only where you laid it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Speak no more!<br /> +For all thou say'st is ominous: We were cursing;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">149</span><a id="page_149" name="page_149"></a> +And that dire imprecation has thou fastened<br /> +On Thebes, and thee, and me, and all of us.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Are then my blessings turned into a curse?<br /> +O unkind Œdipus! My former lord<br /> +Thought me his blessing; be thou like my Laius.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> What, yet again? the third time hast thou cursed me:<br /> +This imprecation was for Laius' death,<br /> +And thou hast wished me like him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Horror seizes me!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Why dost thou gaze upon me? pr'ythee, love,<br /> +Take off thy eye; it burdens me too much.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> The more I look, the more I find of Laius:<br /> +His speech, his garb, his action; nay, his frown,—<br /> +For I have seen it,—but ne'er bent on me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Are we so like?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> In all things but his love.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> I love thee more: So well I love, words cannot speak how well.<br /> +No pious son e'er loved his mother more,<br /> +Than I my dear Jocasta.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> I love you too<br /> +The self-same way; and when you chid, methought<br /> +A mother's love start<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_4-5">[5]</a> up in your defence,<br /> +And bade me not be angry. Be not you;<br /> +For I love Laius still, as wives should love;<br /> +But you more tenderly, as part of me:<br /> +And when I have you in my arms, methinks<br /> +I lull my child asleep.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Then we are blest;<br /> +And all these curses sweep along the skies<br /> +Like empty clouds, but drop not on our heads.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> I have not joyed an hour since you departed,<br /> +For public miseries, and for private fears;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">150</span><a id="page_150" name="page_150"></a> +But this blest meeting has o'er-paid them all.<br /> +Good fortune, that comes seldom, comes more welcome.<br /> +All I can wish for now, is your consent<br /> +To make my brother happy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> How, Jocasta?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> By marriage with his niece, Eurydice.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Uncle and niece! they are too near, my love;<br /> +'Tis too like incest; 'tis offence to kind:<br /> +Had I not promised, were there no Adrastus,<br /> +No choice but Creon left her of mankind,<br /> +They should not marry: Speak no more of it;<br /> +The thought disturbs me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Heaven can never bless<br /> +A vow so broken, which I made to Creon;<br /> +Remember, he is my brother.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> That is the bar;<br /> +And she thy daughter: Nature would abhor<br /> +To be forced back again upon herself,<br /> +And, like a whirlpool, swallow her own streams.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Be not displeased: I'll move the suit no more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> No, do not; for, I know not why, it shakes me,<br /> +When I but think on incest. Move we forward,<br /> +<span class="i1">To thank the gods for my success, and pray</span><br /> +<span class="i1">To wash the guilt of royal blood away.</span><span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT II.<br /> +SCENE I.—<i>An open Gallery. A Royal Bed-chamber +being supposed behind.<br /> +The Time, Night. Thunder, &c.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Hæmon, Alcander,</span> and <span class="cnm">Pyracmon.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> Sure 'tis the end of all things! fate has torn<br /> +The lock of time off, and his head is now<br /> +The ghastly ball of round eternity!<br /> +<span class="pgnm">151</span><a id="page_151" name="page_151"></a> +Call you these peals of thunder, but the yawn<br /> +Of bellowing clouds? By Jove, they seem to me<br /> +The world's last groans; and those vast sheets of flame<br /> +Are its last blaze. The tapers of the gods,<br /> +The sun and moon, run down like waxen-globes;<br /> +The shooting stars end all in purple jellies<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_4-6">[6]</a>,<br /> +And chaos is at hand.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pyr.</span> 'Tis midnight, yet there's not a Theban sleeps,<br /> +But such as ne'er must wake. All crowd about<br /> +The palace, and implore, as from a god,<br /> +Help of the king; who, from the battlement,<br /> +By the red lightning's glare descried afar,<br /> +Atones the angry powers.<span class="sdr">[Thunder, &c.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> Ha! Pyracmon, look;<br /> +Behold, Alcander, from yon' west of heaven,<br /> +The perfect figures of a man and woman;<br /> +A sceptre, bright with gems, in each right hand,<br /> +Their flowing robes of dazzling purple made:<br /> +Distinctly yonder in that point they stand,<br /> +Just west; a bloody red stains all the place;<br /> +And see, their faces are quite hid in clouds.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pyr.</span> Clusters of golden stars hang o'er their heads,<br /> +And seem so crowded, that they burst upon them:<br /> +All dart at once their baleful influence,<br /> +In leaking fire.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alc.</span> Long-bearded comets stick,<br /> +Like flaming porcupines, to their left sides,<br /> +As they would shoot their quills into their hearts.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> But see! the king, and queen, and all the court!<br /> +<span class="pgnm">152</span><a id="page_152" name="page_152"></a> +Did ever day or night shew aught like this? +<span class="sdr">[Thunders again. The Scene draws, and discovers +the Prodigies.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Œdipus, Jocasta, Eurydice, Adrastus;</span> +and all coming forward with amazement.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Answer, you powers divine! spare all this noise,<br /> +This rack of heaven, and speak your fatal pleasure.<br /> +Why breaks yon dark and dusky orb away?<br /> +Why from the bleeding womb of monstrous night,<br /> +Burst forth such myriads of abortive stars?<br /> +Ha! my Jocasta, look! the silver moon!<br /> +A settling crimson stains her beauteous face!<br /> +She's all o'er blood! and look, behold again,<br /> +What mean the mystic heavens she journies on?<br /> +A vast eclipse darkens the labouring planet:—<br /> +Sound there, sound all our instruments of war;<br /> +Clarions and trumpets, silver, brass, and iron,<br /> +And beat a thousand drums, to help her labour.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> 'Tis vain; you see the prodigies continue;<br /> +Let's gaze no more, the gods are humorous.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Forbear, rash man.—Once more I ask your pleasure!<br /> +If that the glow-worm light of human reason<br /> +Might dare to offer at immortal knowledge,<br /> +And cope with gods, why all this storm of nature?<br /> +Why do the rocks split, and why rolls the sea?<br /> +Why those portents in heaven, and plagues on earth?<br /> +Why yon gigantic forms, ethereal monsters?<br /> +Alas! is all this but to fright the dwarfs,<br /> +Which your own hands have made? Then be it so.<br /> +Or if the fates resolve some expiation<br /> +For murdered Laius; hear me, hear me, gods!<br /> +Hear me thus prostrate: Spare this groaning land,<br /> +Save innocent Thebes, stop the tyrant death;<br /> +Do this, and lo, I stand up an oblation,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">153</span><a id="page_153" name="page_153"></a> +To meet your swiftest and severest anger;<br /> +Shoot all at once, and strike me to the centre.</p> + +<p class="sdn">The Cloud draws, that veiled the Heads of the Figures +in the Sky, and shews them crowned, with the names +of <span class="cnm">Œdipus</span> and <span class="cnm">Jocasta,</span> written above in great +characters of gold.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Either I dream, and all my cooler senses<br /> +Are vanished with that cloud that fleets away,<br /> +Or just above those two majestic heads,<br /> +I see, I read distinctly, in large gold,<br /> +<i>Œdipus and Jocasta.</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alc.</span> I read the same.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> 'Tis wonderful; yet ought not man to wade<br /> +Too far in the vast deep of destiny. +<span class="sdr">[Thunder; and the Prodigies vanish.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> My lord, my Œdipus, why gaze you now,<br /> +When the whole heaven is clear, as if the gods<br /> +Had some new monsters made? will you not turn,<br /> +And bless your people, who devour each word<br /> +You breathe?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> It shall be so.<br /> +Yes, I will die, O Thebes, to save thee!<br /> +Draw from my heart my blood, with more content<br /> +Than e'er I wore thy crown.—Yet, O Jocasta!<br /> +By all the endearments of miraculous love,<br /> +By all our languishings, our fears in pleasure,<br /> +Which oft have made us wonder; here I swear,<br /> +On thy fair hand, upon thy breast I swear,<br /> +I cannot call to mind, from budding childhood<br /> +To blooming youth, a crime by me committed,<br /> +For which the awful gods should doom my death.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> 'Tis not you, my lord,<br /> +But he who murdered Laius, frees the land.<br /> +Were you, which is impossible, the man,<br /> +Perhaps my poniard first should drink your blood;<br /> +But you are innocent, as your Jocasta,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">154</span><a id="page_154" name="page_154"></a> +From crimes like those. This made me violent<br /> +To save your life, which you unjust would lose:<br /> +Nor can you comprehend, with deepest thought,<br /> +The horrid agony you cast me in,<br /> +When you resolved to die.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Is't possible?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Alas! why start you so? Her stiffening grief,<br /> +Who saw her children slaughtered all at once,<br /> +Was dull to mine: Methinks, I should have made<br /> +My bosom bare against the armed god,<br /> +To save my Œdipus!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> I pray, no more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> You've silenced me, my lord.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Pardon me, dear Jocasta!<br /> +Pardon a heart that sinks with sufferings,<br /> +And can but vent itself in sobs and murmurs:<br /> +Yet, to restore my peace, I'll find him out.<br /> +Yes, yes, you gods! you shall have ample vengeance<br /> +On Laius' murderer. O, the traitor's name!<br /> +I'll know't, I will; art shall be conjured for it,<br /> +And nature all unravelled.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Sacred sir—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Rage will have way, and 'tis but just; I'll fetch him,<br /> +Though lodged in air upon a dragon's wing,<br /> +Though rocks should hide him: Nay, he shall be dragged<br /> +From hell, if charms can hurry him along:<br /> +His ghost shall be, by sage Tiresias' power,—<br /> +Tiresias, that rules all beneath the moon,—<br /> +Confined to flesh, to suffer death once more;<br /> +And then be plunged in his first fires again.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Creon.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> My lord,<br /> +Tiresias attends your pleasure.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Haste, and bring him in.—<br /> +<span class="pgnm">155</span><a id="page_155" name="page_155"></a> +O, my Jocasta, Eurydice, Adrastus,<br /> +Creon, and all ye Thebans, now the end<br /> +Of plagues, of madness, murders, prodigies,<br /> +Draws on: This battle of the heavens and earth<br /> +Shall by his wisdom be reduced to peace.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Tiresias,</span> leaning on a staff, led by his Daughter +<span class="cnm">Manto,</span> followed by other Thebans.</p> + +<p class="dlg">O thou, whose most aspiring mind<br /> +Knows all the business of the courts above,<br /> +Opens the closets of the gods, and dares<br /> +To mix with Jove himself and Fate at council;<br /> +O prophet, answer me, declare aloud<br /> +The traitor, who conspired the death of Laius;<br /> +Or be they more, who from malignant stars<br /> +Have drawn this plague, that blasts unhappy Thebes?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> We must no more than Fate commissions us<br /> +To tell; yet something, and of moment, I'll unfold,<br /> +If that the god would wake; I feel him now,<br /> +Like a strong spirit charmed into a tree,<br /> +That leaps, and moves the wood without a wind:<br /> +The roused god, as all this while he lay<br /> +Entombed alive, starts and dilates himself;<br /> +He struggles, and he tears my aged trunk<br /> +With holy fury; my old arteries burst;<br /> +My rivell'd skin,<br /> +Like parchment, crackles at the hallowed fire;<br /> +I shall be young again:—Manto, my daughter,<br /> +Thou hast a voice that might have saved the bard<br /> +Of Thrace, and forced the raging bacchanals,<br /> +With lifted prongs, to listen to thy airs.<br /> +O charm this god, this fury in my bosom,<br /> +Lull him with tuneful notes, and artful strings,<br /> +With powerful strains; Manto, my lovely child,<br /> +Sooth the unruly godhead to be mild.</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<h4>SONG TO APOLLO.</h4> + +<div class="stanza pi"> +<p>Phœbus, god beloved by men,</p> +<p>At thy dawn, every beast is roused in his den;</p> +<span class="pgnm">156</span><a id="page_156" name="page_156"></a> +<p>At thy setting, all the birds of thy absence complain,</p> +<p>And we die, all die, till the morning comes again.</p> +<p class="i2">Phœbus, god beloved by men!</p> +<p class="i2">Idol of the eastern kings,</p> +<p class="i2">Awful as the god who flings</p> +<p class="i2">His thunder round, and the lightning wings;</p> +<p class="i2">God of songs, and Orphean strings,</p> +<p class="i2">Who to this mortal bosom brings</p> +<p class="i2">All harmonious heavenly things!</p> +<p class="i2">Thy drowsy prophet to revive,</p> +<p>Ten thousand thousand forms before him drive:</p> +<p>With chariots and horses all o'fire awake him,</p> +<p>Convulsions, and furies, and prophesies shake him:</p> +<p>Let him tell it in groans, though he bend with the load,</p> +<p>Though he burst with the weight of the terrible god.</p> +</div></div> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> The wretch, who shed the blood of old Labdacides,<br /> +Lives, and is great;<br /> +But cruel greatness ne'er was long.<br /> +The first of Laius' blood his life did seize,<br /> +And urged his fate,<br /> +Which else had lasting been and strong.<br /> +The wretch, who Laius killed, must bleed or fly;<br /> +Or Thebes, consumed with plagues, in ruins lie.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> The first of Laius' blood! pronounce the person;<br /> +May the god roar from thy prophetic mouth,<br /> +That even the dead may start up, to behold;<br /> +Name him, I say, that most accursed wretch,<br /> +For, by the stars, he dies!<br /> +Speak, I command thee;<br /> +By Phœbus, speak; for sudden death's his doom:<br /> +Here shall he fall, bleed on this very spot;<br /> +His name, I charge thee once more, speak.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> 'Tis lost,<br /> +Like what we think can never shun remembrance;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">157</span><a id="page_157" name="page_157"></a> +Yet of a sudden's gone beyond the clouds.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Fetch it from thence; I'll have't, wheree'er it be.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Let me entreat you, sacred sir, be calm,<br /> +And Creon shall point out the great offender.<br /> +'Tis true, respect of nature might enjoin<br /> +Me silence, at another time; but, oh,<br /> +Much more the power of my eternal love!<br /> +That, that should strike me dumb; yet Thebes, my country—<br /> +I'll break through all, to succour thee, poor city!<br /> +O, I must speak.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Speak then, if aught thou knowest,<br /> +As much thou seem'st to know,—delay no longer.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> O beauty! O illustrious, royal maid!<br /> +To whom my vows were ever paid, till now;<br /> +And with such modest, chaste, and pure affection,<br /> +The coldest nymph might read'em without blushing;<br /> +Art thou the murdress, then, of wretched Laius?<br /> +And I, must I accuse thee! O my tears!<br /> +Why will you fall in so abhorred a cause?<br /> +But that thy beauteous, barbarous hand destroyed<br /> +Thy father, (O monstrous act!) both gods<br /> +And men at once take notice.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Eurydice!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Traitor, go on; I scorn thy little malice;<br /> +And knowing more my perfect innocence,<br /> +Than gods and men, then how much more than thee,<br /> +Who art their opposite, and formed a liar,<br /> +I thus disdain thee! Thou once didst talk of love;<br /> +Because I hate thy love,<br /> +Thou dost accuse me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Villain, inglorious villain,<br /> +And traitor, doubly damned, who durst blaspheme<br /> +The spotless virtue of the brightest beauty;<br /> +Thou diest: Nor shall the sacred majesty, +<span class="sdr">[Draws and wounds him.</span><br /> +<span class="pgnm">158</span><a id="page_158" name="page_158"></a> +That guards this place, preserve thee from my rage.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Disarm them both!—Prince, I shall make you know,<br /> +That, I can tame you twice. Guards, seize him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Sir,<br /> +I must acknowledge, in another cause<br /> +Repentance might abash me; but I glory<br /> +In this, and smile to see the traitor's blood.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Creon, you shall be satisfied at full.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> My hurt is nothing, sir; but I appeal<br /> +To wise Tiresias, if my accusation<br /> +Be not most true. The first of Laius' blood<br /> +Gave him his death. Is there a prince before her?<br /> +Then she is faultless, and I ask her pardon.<br /> +And may this blood ne'er cease to drop, O Thebes,<br /> +If pity of thy sufferings did not move me,<br /> +To shew the cure which heaven itself prescribed.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Yes, Thebans, I will die to save your lives.<br /> +More willingly than you can wish my fate;<br /> +But let this good, this wise, this holy man,<br /> +Pronounce my sentence: For to fall by him,<br /> +By the vile breath of that prodigious villain,<br /> +Would sink my soul, though I should die a martyr.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Unhand me, slaves.—O mightiest of kings,<br /> +See at your feet a prince not used to kneel;<br /> +Touch not Eurydice, by all the gods,<br /> +As you would save your Thebes, but take my life:<br /> +For should she perish, heaven would heap plagues on plagues,<br /> +Rain sulphur down, hurl kindled bolts<br /> +Upon your guilty heads.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> You turn to gallantry, what is but justice;<br /> +Proof will be easy made. Adrastus was<br /> +The robber, who bereft the unhappy king<br /> +Of life; because he flatly had denied<br /> +To make so poor a prince his son-in-law;<br /> +Therefore 'twere fit that both should perish.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">159</span><a id="page_159" name="page_159"></a> +<span class="cnm">1 Theb.</span> Both, let both die.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">All Theb.</span> Both, both; let them die.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Hence, you wild herd! For your ringleader here,<br /> +He shall be made example. Hæmon, take him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">1 Theb.</span> Mercy, O mercy!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Mutiny in my presence!<br /> +Hence, let me see that busy face no more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Thebans, what madness makes you drunk with rage?<br /> +Enough of guilty death's already acted:<br /> +Fierce Creon has accused Eurydice,<br /> +With prince Adrastus; which the god reproves<br /> +By inward checks, and leaves their fates in doubt.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Therefore instruct us what remains to do,<br /> +Or suffer; for I feel a sleep like death<br /> +Upon me, and I sigh to be at rest.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Since that the powers divine refuse to clear<br /> +The mystic deed, I'll to the grove of furies;<br /> +There I can force the infernal gods to shew<br /> +Their horrid forms; each trembling ghost shall rise,<br /> +And leave their grisly king without a waiter.<br /> +For prince Adrastus and Eurydice,<br /> +My life's engaged, I'll guard them in the fane,<br /> +'Till the dark mysteries of hell are done.<br /> +Follow me, princes; Thebans, all to rest.<br /> +O, Œdipus, to-morrow—but no more.<br /> +If that thy wakeful genius will permit,<br /> +Indulge thy brain this night with softer slumbers:<br /> +To-morrow, O to-morrow!—Sleep, my son;<br /> +And in prophetic dreams thy fate be shown. +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Tir. Adr. Eur. Man.</span> and Theb.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Manent <span class="cnm">Œdipus, Jocasta, Creon, Pyracmon, +Hæmon,</span> and <span class="cnm">Alcander.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> To bed, my fair, my dear, my best Jocasta.<br /> +After the toils of war, 'tis wondrous strange<br /> +<span class="pgnm">160</span><a id="page_160" name="page_160"></a> +Our loves should thus be dashed. One moment's thought,<br /> +And I'll approach the arms of my beloved.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Consume whole years in care, so now and then<br /> +I may have leave to feed my famished eyes<br /> +With one short passing glance, and sigh my vows:<br /> +This, and no more, my lord, is all the passion<br /> +Of languishing Jocasta.<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Thou softest, sweetest of the world! good night.—<br /> +Nay, she is beauteous too; yet, mighty love!<br /> +I never offered to obey thy laws,<br /> +But an unusual chillness came upon me;<br /> +An unknown hand still checked my forward joy,<br /> +Dashed me with blushes, though no light was near;<br /> +That even the act became a violation.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pyr.</span> He's strangely thoughtful.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Hark! who was that? Ha! Creon, didst thou call me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Not I, my gracious lord, nor any here.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> That's strange! methought I heard a doleful voice<br /> +Cry, Œdipus.—The prophet bade me sleep.<br /> +He talked of dreams, and visions, and to-morrow!<br /> +I'll muse no more; come what will, or can,<br /> +My thoughts are clearer than unclouded stars;<br /> +And with those thoughts I'll rest. Creon, good-night. +<span class="sdr">[Exit with <span class="cnm">Hæm.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Sleep seal your eyes up, sir,—eternal sleep!<br /> +But if he sleep and wake again, O all<br /> +Tormenting dreams, wild horrors of the night,<br /> +And hags of fancy, wing him through the air:<br /> +From precipices hurl him headlong down,<br /> +Charybdis roar, and death be set before him!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alc.</span> Your curses have already taken effect,<br /> +For he looks very sad.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> May he be rooted, where he stands, for ever;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">161</span><a id="page_161" name="page_161"></a> +His eye-balls never move, brows be unbent,<br /> +His blood, his entrails, liver, heart, and bowels,<br /> +Be blacker than the place I wish him, hell.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pyr.</span> No more; you tear yourself, but vex not him.<br /> +Methinks 'twere brave this night to force the temple,<br /> +While blind Tiresias conjures up the fiends,<br /> +And pass the time with nice Eurydice.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alc.</span> Try promises and threats, and if all fail,<br /> +Since hell's broke loose, why should not you be mad?<br /> +Ravish, and leave her dead with her Adrastus.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Were the globe mine, I'd give a province hourly<br /> +For such another thought.—Lust and revenge!<br /> +To stab at once the only man I hate,<br /> +And to enjoy the woman whom I love!<br /> +I ask no more of my auspicious stars,<br /> +The rest as fortune please; so but this night<br /> +She play me fair, why, let her turn for ever.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Hæmon.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> My lord, the troubled king is gone to rest;<br /> +Yet, ere he slept, commanded me to clear<br /> +The antichambers; none must dare be near him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Hæmon, you do your duty;<span class="sdr">[Thunder.</span><br /> +And we obey.—The night grows yet more dreadful!<br /> +'Tis just that all retire to their devotions.<br /> +The gods are angry; but to-morrow's dawn,<br /> +If prophets do not lie, will make all clear.</p> + +<p class="sdn">As they go off, <span class="cnm">Œdipus</span> enters, walking asleep in +his shirt, with a dagger in his right hand, and a +taper in his left.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> O, my Jocasta! 'tis for this, the wet<br /> +Starved soldier lies on the cold ground;<br /> +For this, he bears the storms<br /> +Of winter camps, and freezes in his arms;<br /> +To be thus circled, to be thus embraced.<br /> +<span class="pgnm">162</span><a id="page_162" name="page_162"></a> +That I could hold thee ever!—Ha! where art thou?<br /> +What means this melancholy light, that seems<br /> +The gloom of glowing embers?<br /> +The curtain's drawn; and see she's here again!<br /> +Jocasta? Ha! what, fallen asleep so soon?<br /> +How fares my love? this taper will inform me.—<br /> +Ha! Lightning blast me, thunder<br /> +Rivet me ever to Prometheus' rock,<br /> +And vultures gnaw out my incestuous heart!—<br /> +By all the gods, my mother Merope!<br /> +My sword! a dagger! ha, who waits there? Slaves,<br /> +My sword!—What, Hæmon, dar'st thou, villain, stop me?<br /> +With thy own poniard perish.—Ha! who's this?<br /> +Or is't a change of death? By all my honours,<br /> +New murder; thou hast slain old Polybus:<br /> +Incest and parricide,—thy father's murderer!<br /> +Out, thou infernal flame!—Now all is dark,<br /> +All blind and dismal, most triumphant mischief!<br /> +And now, while thus I stalk about the room,<br /> +I challenge Fate to find another wretch<br /> +Like Œdipus!<span class="sdr">[Thunder, &c.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Jocasta</span> attended, with Lights, in a +Night-gown.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Night, horror, death, confusion, hell, and furies!<br /> +Where am I?—O, Jocasta, let me hold thee,<br /> +Thus to my bosom! ages let me grasp thee!<br /> +All that the hardest-tempered weathered flesh,<br /> +With fiercest human spirit inspired, can dare,<br /> +Or do, I dare; but, oh you powers, this was,<br /> +By infinite degrees, too much for man.<br /> +Methinks my deafened ears<br /> +Are burst; my eyes, as if they had been knocked<br /> +By some tempestuous hand, shoot flashing fire;—<br /> +That sleep should do this!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Then my fears were true.<br /> +<span class="pgnm">163</span><a id="page_163" name="page_163"></a> +Methought I heard your voice,—and yet I doubted,—<br /> +Now roaring like the ocean, when the winds<br /> +Fight with the waves; now, in a still small tone<br /> +Your dying accents fell, as wrecking ships,<br /> +After the dreadful yell, sink murmuring down,<br /> +And bubble up a noise.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Trust me, thou fairest, best of all thy kind,<br /> +None e'er in dreams was tortured so before.<br /> +Yet what most shocks the niceness of my temper,<br /> +Even far beyond the killing of my father,<br /> +And my own death, is, that this horrid sleep<br /> +Dashed my sick fancy with an act of incest:<br /> +I dreamt, Jocasta, that thou wert my mother;<br /> +Which, though impossible, so damps my spirits,<br /> +That I could do a mischief on myself,<br /> +Lest I should sleep, and dream the like again.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> O Œdipus, too well I understand you!<br /> +I know the wrath of heaven, the care of Thebes,<br /> +The cries of its inhabitants, war's toils,<br /> +And thousand other labours of the state,<br /> +Are all referred to you, and ought to take you<br /> +For ever from Jocasta.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Life of my life, and treasure of my soul,<br /> +Heaven knows I love thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> O, you think me vile,<br /> +And of an inclination so ignoble,<br /> +That I must hide me from your eyes for ever.<br /> +Be witness, gods, and strike Jocasta dead,<br /> +If an immodest thought, or low desire,<br /> +Inflamed my breast, since first our loves were lighted.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> O rise, and add not, by thy cruel kindness,<br /> +A grief more sensible than all my torments.<br /> +Thou thinkest my dreams are forged; but by thyself,<br /> +The greatest oath, I swear, they are most true;<br /> +But, be they what they will, I here dismiss them.<br /> +Begone, chimeras, to your mother clouds!<br /> +Is there a fault in us? Have we not searched<br /> +<span class="pgnm">164</span><a id="page_164" name="page_164"></a> +The womb of heaven, examined all the entrails<br /> +Of birds and beasts, and tired the prophet's art?<br /> +Yet what avails? He, and the gods together,<br /> +Seem, like physicians, at a loss to help us;<br /> +Therefore, like wretches that have lingered long,<br /> +We'll snatch the strongest cordial of our love;<br /> +To bed, my fair.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ghost.</span> [<span class="sdm">Within.</span>] Œdipus!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Ha! who calls?<br /> +Didst thou not hear a voice?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Alas! I did.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ghost.</span> Jocasta!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> O my love, my lord, support me!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Call louder, till you burst your airy forms!—<br /> +Rest on my hand. Thus, armed with innocence,<br /> +I'll face these babbling dæmons of the air;<br /> +In spite of ghosts, I'll on.<br /> +Though round my bed the furies plant their charms,<br /> +I'll break them, with Jocasta in my arms;<br /> +Clasped in the folds of love, I'll wait my doom;<br /> +And act my joys, though thunder shake the room.<span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT III.<br /> +SCENE I.—<i>A dark Grove.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Creon</span> and <span class="cnm">Diocles.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> 'Tis better not to be, than be unhappy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> What mean you by these words?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> 'Tis better not to be, than to be Creon.<br /> +A thinking soul is punishment enough;<br /> +But when 'tis great, like mine, and wretched too,<br /> +Then every thought draws blood.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> You are not wretched.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">165</span><a id="page_165" name="page_165"></a> +<span class="cnm">Cre.</span> I am: my soul's ill married to my body.<br /> +I would be young, be handsome, be beloved:<br /> +Could I but breathe myself into Adrastus!—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> You rave; call home your thoughts.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> I pr'ythee let my soul take air a while;<br /> +Were she in Œdipus, I were a king;<br /> +Then I had killed a monster, gained a battle,<br /> +And had my rival prisoner; brave, brave actions!<br /> +Why have not I done these?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> Your fortune hindered.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> There's it; I have a soul to do them all:<br /> +But fortune will have nothing done that's great,<br /> +But by young handsome fools; body and brawn<br /> +Do all her work: Hercules was a fool,<br /> +And straight grew famous; a mad boist'rous fool,<br /> +Nay worse, a woman's fool;<br /> +Fool is the stuff, of which heaven makes a hero.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> A serpent ne'er becomes a flying dragon,<br /> +Till he has eat a serpent<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_4-7">[7]</a>.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Goes it there?<br /> +I understand thee; I must kill Adrastus.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> Or not enjoy your mistress:<br /> +Eurydice and he are prisoners here,<br /> +But will not long be so: This tell-tale ghost<br /> +Perhaps will clear 'em both.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Well: 'tis resolved.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> The princess walks this way;<br /> +You must not meet her,<br /> +Till this be done.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> I must.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> She hates your sight;<br /> +And more, since you accused her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">166</span><a id="page_166" name="page_166"></a> +<span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Urge it not.<br /> +I cannot stay to tell thee my design;<br /> +For she's too near.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Eurydice.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg">How, madam, were your thoughts employed?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> On death, and thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Then were they not well sorted: Life and me<br /> +Had been the better match.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> No, I was thinking<br /> +On two the most detested things in nature:<br /> +And they are death and thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> The thought of death to one near death is dreadful!<br /> +O 'tis a fearful thing to be no more;<br /> +Or, if to be, to wander after death;<br /> +To walk as spirits do, in brakes all day;<br /> +And when the darkness comes, to glide in paths<br /> +That lead to graves; and in the silent vault,<br /> +Where lies your own pale shroud, to hover o'er it,<br /> +Striving to enter your forbidden corps,<br /> +And often, often, vainly breathe your ghost<br /> +Into your lifeless lips;<br /> +Then, like a lone benighted traveller,<br /> +Shut out from lodging, shall your groans be answered<br /> +By whistling winds, whose every blast will shake<br /> +Your tender form to atoms.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Must I be this thin being? and thus wander?<br /> +No quiet after death!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> None: You must leave<br /> +This beauteous body; all this youth and freshness<br /> +Must be no more the object of desire,<br /> +But a cold lump of clay;<br /> +Which then your discontented ghost will leave,<br /> +And loath its former lodging.<br /> +This is the best of what comes after death.<br /> +Even to the best.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">167</span><a id="page_167" name="page_167"></a> +<span class="cnm">Eur.</span> What then shall be thy lot?—<br /> +Eternal torments, baths of boiling sulphur,<br /> +Vicissitudes of fires, and then of frosts;<br /> +And an old guardian fiend, ugly as thou art,<br /> +To hollow in thy ears at every lash,—<br /> +This for Eurydice; these for her Adrastus!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> For her Adrastus!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Yes; for her Adrastus:<br /> +For death shall ne'er divide us: Death? what's death!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> You seemed to fear it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> But I more fear Creon:<br /> +To take that hunch-backed monster in my arms!<br /> +The excrescence of a man!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> <i>to Cre.</i> See what you've gained.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Death only can be dreadful to the bad:<br /> +To innocence, 'tis like a bug-bear dressed<br /> +To frighten children; pull but off his masque,<br /> +And he'll appear a friend.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> You talk too slightly<br /> +Of death and hell. Let me inform you better.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> You best can tell the news of your own country.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> Nay, now you are too sharp.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Can I be so to one, who has accused me<br /> +Of murder and of parricide?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> You provoked me:<br /> +And yet I only did thus far accuse you,<br /> +As next of blood to Laius: Be advised,<br /> +And you may live.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> The means?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> 'Tis offered you.<br /> +The fool Adrastus has accused himself.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> He has indeed, to take the guilt from me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> He says he loves you; if he does, 'tis well:<br /> +He ne'er could prove it in a better time.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Then death must be his recompence for love?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> 'Tis a fool's just reward;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">168</span><a id="page_168" name="page_168"></a> +The wise can make a better use of life.<br /> +But 'tis the young man's pleasure; his ambition:<br /> +I grudge him not that favour.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> When he's dead,<br /> +Where shall I find his equal!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Every where.<br /> +Fine empty things, like him, the court swarms with them.<br /> +Fine fighting things; in camps they are so common,<br /> +Crows feed on nothing else: plenty of fools;<br /> +A glut of them in Thebes.<br /> +And fortune still takes care they should be seen:<br /> +She places 'em aloft, o'th' topmost spoke<br /> +Of all her wheel. Fools are the daily work<br /> +Of nature; her vocation; if she form<br /> +A man, she loses by't, 'tis too expensive;<br /> +'Twould make ten fools: A man's a prodigy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> That is, a Creon: O thou black detractor,<br /> +Who spit'st thy venom against gods and men!<br /> +Thou enemy of eyes;<br /> +Thou, who lov'st nothing but what nothing loves,<br /> +And that's thyself; who hast conspired against<br /> +My life and fame, to make me loathed by all,<br /> +And only fit for thee.<br /> +But for Adrastus' death,—good Gods, his death!—<br /> +What curse shall I invent?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> No more: he's here.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> He shall be ever here.<br /> +He who would give his life, give up his fame—</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Adrastus.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg">If all the excellence of woman-kind<br /> +Were mine;—No, 'tis too little all for him:<br /> +Were I made up of endless, endless joys!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> And so thou art:<br /> +The man, who loves like me,<br /> +Would think even infamy, the worst of ills,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">169</span><a id="page_169" name="page_169"></a> +Were cheaply purchased, were thy love the price.<br /> +Uncrowned, a captive, nothing left but honour,—<br /> +'Tis the last thing a prince should throw away;<br /> +But when the storm grows loud, and threatens love,<br /> +Throw even that o'er-board; for love's the jewel,<br /> +And last it must be kept.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> [<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Dioc.</span></span>] Work him, be sure,<br /> +To rage; he is passionate;<br /> +Make him the aggressor.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> O false love, false honour!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Dissembled both, and false!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Darest thou say this to me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> To you! why what are you, that I should fear you?<br /> +I am not Laius. Hear me, prince of Argos;<br /> +You give what's nothing, when you give your honour:<br /> +'Tis gone; 'tis lost in battle. For your love,<br /> +Vows made in wine are not so false as that:<br /> +You killed her father; you confessed you did:<br /> +A mighty argument to prove your passion to the daughter!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] +Gods, must I bear this brand, and not retort<br /> +The lye to his foul throat!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> Basely you killed him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] +O, I burn inward: my blood's all on fire!<br /> +Alcides, when the poisoned shirt sate closest,<br /> +Had but an ague-fit to this my fever.<br /> +Yet, for Eurydice, even this I'll suffer,<br /> +To free my love.—Well then, I killed him basely.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Fairly, I'm sure, you could not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> Nor alone.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> You had your fellow thieves about you, prince;<br /> +They conquered, and you killed.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">170</span><a id="page_170" name="page_170"></a> +<span class="cnm">Adr.</span> [<i>Aside.</i>] Down, swelling heart!<br /> +'Tis for thy princess all:—O my Eurydice!—<span class="sdr">[To her.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> [<span class="sdm">To him.</span>] +Reproach not thus the weakness of my sex,<br /> +As if I could not bear a shameful death,<br /> +Rather than see you burdened with a crime<br /> +Of which I know you free.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> You do ill, madam,<br /> +To let your head-long love triumph o'er nature:<br /> +Dare you defend your father's murderer?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> You know he killed him not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Let him say so.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> See, he stands mute.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> O power of conscience, even in wicked men!<br /> +It works, it stings, it will not let him utter<br /> +One syllable, one,—no, to clear himself<br /> +From the most base, detested, horrid act<br /> +That ere could stain a villain,—not a prince.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Ha! villain!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> Echo to him, groves: cry villain.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Let me consider—did I murder Laius,<br /> +Thus, like a villain?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Best revoke your words,<br /> +And say you killed him not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Not like a villain; pr'ythee, change me that<br /> +For any other lye.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dioc.</span> No, villain, villain.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> You killed him not! proclaim your innocence,<br /> +Accuse the princess: So I knew 'twould be.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> I thank thee, thou instructest me:<br /> +No matter how I killed him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Cooled again!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Thou, who usurp'st the sacred name of conscience,<br /> +Did not thy own declare him innocent?<br /> +<span class="pgnm">171</span><a id="page_171" name="page_171"></a> +To me declare him so? The king shall know it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> You will not be believed, for I'll forswear it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> What's now thy conscience?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> 'Tis my slave, my drudge, my supple glove,<br /> +My upper garment, to put on, throw off,<br /> +As I think best: 'Tis my obedient conscience.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Infamous wretch!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> My conscience shall not do me the ill office<br /> +To save a rival's life; when thou art dead,<br /> +(As dead thou shalt be, or be yet more base<br /> +Than thou think'st me,<br /> +By forfeiting her life, to save thy own,—)<br /> +Know this,—and let it grate thy very soul,—<br /> +She shall be mine: (she is, if vows were binding;)<br /> +Mark me, the fruit of all thy faith and passion,<br /> +Even of thy foolish death, shall all be mine.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Thine, say'st thou, monster! shall my love be thine?<br /> +O, I can bear no more!<br /> +Thy cunning engines have with labour raised<br /> +My heavy anger, like a mighty weight,<br /> +To fall and pash thee dead.<br /> +See here thy nuptials; see, thou rash Ixion,<span class="sdr">[Draws.</span><br /> +Thy promised Juno vanished in a cloud;<br /> +And in her room avenging thunder rolls,<br /> +To blast thee thus!—Come both!—<span class="sdr">[Both draw.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> 'Tis what I wished.<br /> +Now see whose arm can launch the surer bolt,<br /> +And who's the better Jove!<span class="sdr">[Fight.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Help; murther, help!</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Hæmon</span> and guards, run betwixt them, and +beat down their swords.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> Hold, hold your impious hands! I think the furies,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">172</span><a id="page_172" name="page_172"></a> +To whom this grove is hallowed, have inspired you:<br /> +Now, by my soul, the holiest earth of Thebes<br /> +You have profaned with war. Nor tree, nor plant<br /> +Grows here, but what is fed with magick juice;<br /> +All full of human souls, that cleave their barks<br /> +To dance at midnight by the moon's pale beams:<br /> +At least two hundred years these reverend shades<br /> +Have known no blood, but of black sheep and oxen,<br /> +Shed by the priest's own hand to Proserpine.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Forgive a stranger's ignorance: I knew not<br /> +The honours of the place.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> Thou, Creon, didst.<br /> +Not Œdipus, were all his foes here lodged,<br /> +Durst violate the religion of these groves,<br /> +To touch one single hair; but must, unarmed,<br /> +Parle as in truce, or surlily avoid<br /> +What most he longed to kill<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_4-8">[8]</a>.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">173</span><a id="page_173" name="page_173"></a> +<span class="cnm">Cre.</span> I drew not first,<br /> +But in my own defence.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> I was provoked<br /> +Beyond man's patience; all reproach could urge<br /> +Was used to kindle one, not apt to bear.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> 'Tis Œdipus, not I, must judge this act.—<br /> +Lord Creon, you and Diocles retire:<br /> +Tiresias, and the brother-hood of priests,<br /> +Approach the place: None at these rites assist,<br /> +But you the accused, who by the mouth of Laius<br /> +Must be absolved or doomed.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> I bear my fortune.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> And I provoke my trial.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> 'Tis at hand.<br /> +For see, the prophet comes, with vervain crowned;<br /> +The priests with yew, a venerable band;<br /> +We leave you to the gods. +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Hæmon</span> with <span class="cnm">Creon</span> and <span class="cnm">Diocles.</span></span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Tiresias,</span> led by <span class="cnm">Manto:</span> The Priests follow; +all cloathed in long black habits.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Approach, ye lovers;<br /> +Ill-fated pair! whom, seeing not, I know,<br /> +This day your kindly stars in heaven were joined;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">174</span><a id="page_174" name="page_174"></a> +When lo, an envious planet interposed,<br /> +And threatened both with death: I fear, I fear!—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Is there no God so much a friend to love,<br /> +Who can controul the malice of our fate?<br /> +Are they all deaf; or have the giants heaven?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> The gods are just;<br /> +But how can finite measure infinite?<br /> +Reason! alas, it does not know itself!<br /> +Yet man, vain man, would with this short-lined plummet,<br /> +Fathom the vast abyss of heavenly justice.<br /> +Whatever is, is in its causes just;<br /> +Since all things are by fate. But purblind man<br /> +Sees but a part o'the chain; the nearest links;<br /> +His eyes not carrying to that equal beam,<br /> +That poises all above.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Then we must die!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> The danger's imminent this day.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Why then there's one day less for human ills;<br /> +And who would moan himself, for suffering that,<br /> +Which in a day must pass? something, or nothing;—<br /> +I shall be what I was again, before<br /> +I was Adrastus.—<br /> +Penurious heaven, can'st thou not add a night<br /> +To our one day? give me a night with her,<br /> +And I'll give all the rest.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> She broke her vow,<br /> +First made to Creon: But the time calls on;<br /> +And Laius' death must now be made more plain.<br /> +How loth I am to have recourse to rites<br /> +So full of horror, that I once rejoice<br /> +I want the use of sight!—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">1 Pr.</span> The ceremonies stay.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> <i>Chuse the darkest part o'the grove:<br /> +Such as ghosts at noon-day love.<br /> +Dig a trench, and dig it nigh<br /> +<span class="pgnm">175</span><a id="page_175" name="page_175"></a> +Where the bones of Laius lie;<br /> +Altars, raised of turf or stone,<br /> +Will the infernal powers have none.<br /> +Answer me, if this be done?</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">All Pr.</span> <i>'Tis done.</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> <i>Is the sacrifice made fit?<br /> +Draw her backward to the pit:<br /> +Draw the barren heifer back;<br /> +Barren let her be, and black.<br /> +Cut the curled hair, that grows<br /> +Full betwixt her horns and brows:<br /> +And turn your faces from the sun:<br /> +Answer me, if this be done?</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">All Pr.</span> <i>'Tis done.</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> <i>Pour in blood, and blood like wine,<br /> +To mother Earth and Proserpine:<br /> +Mingle milk into the stream;<br /> +Feast the ghosts that love the steam;<br /> +Snatch a brand from funeral pile;<br /> +Toss it in to make them boil:<br /> +And turn your faces from the sun:<br /> +Answer me, if all be done?</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">All Pr.</span> <i>All is done.</i> +<span class="sdr">[Peal of Thunder; and flashes of Lightning; +then groaning below the stage.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Man.</span> O, what laments are those?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> The groans of ghosts, that cleave the heart with pain,<br /> +And heave it up: they pant and stick half-way. +<span class="sdr">[The Stage wholly darkened.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Man.</span> And now a sudden darkness covers all,<br /> +True genuine night, night added to the groves;<br /> +The fogs are blown full in the face of heaven.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Am I but half obeyed? infernal gods,<br /> +Must you have musick too? then tune your voices,<br /> +And let them have such sounds as hell ne'er heard,<br /> +Since Orpheus bribed the shades.</p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="pgnm">176</span><a id="page_176" name="page_176"></a> +Musick First. Then Song.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><i><span class="cnm">1.</span> Hear, ye sullen powers below:<br /> +<span class="i2">Hear, ye taskers of the dead.</span><br /> +<span class="cnm">2.</span> You that boiling cauldrons blow,<br /> +<span class="i2">You that scum the molten lead.</span><br /> +<span class="cnm">3.</span> You that pinch with red-hot tongs;<br /> +<span class="cnm">1.</span> You that drive the trembling hosts<br /> +<span class="i2">Of poor, poor ghosts,</span><br /> +<span class="i1">With your sharpened prongs;</span><br /> +<span class="cnm">2.</span> You that thrust them off the brim;<br /> +<span class="cnm">3.</span> You that plunge them when they swim:<br /> +<span class="cnm">1.</span> Till they drown;<br /> +<span class="i2">Till they go</span><br /> +<span class="i2">On a row,</span><br /> +<span class="i1">Down, down, down:</span><br /> +<span class="i1">Ten thousand, thousand, thousand fathoms low.</span></i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Chorus.</span> <i>Till they drown, &c.</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><i><span class="cnm">1.</span> Musick for awhile<br /> +<span class="i1">Shall your cares beguile:</span><br /> +<span class="i1">Wondering how your pains were eased;</span><br /> +<span class="cnm">2.</span> And disdaining to be pleas'd;<br /> +<span class="cnm">1.</span> Till Alecto free the dead<br /> +<span class="i2">From their eternal bands;</span><br /> +<span class="i1">Till the snakes drop from her head,</span><br /> +<span class="i2">And whip from out her hands.</span><br /> +<span class="cnm">1.</span> Come away,<br /> +<span class="i2">Do not stay,</span><br /> +<span class="i2">But obey,</span><br /> +<span class="i2">While we play,</span><br /> +<span class="i2">For hell's broke up, and ghosts have holiday.</span></i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Chorus.</span> <i>Come away, &c.</i> +<span class="sdr">[A flash of Lightning: The Stage is made +bright, and the Ghosts are seen passing +betwixt the Trees.</span><br /><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><i><span class="cnm">1.</span> Laius! <span class="cnm">2.</span> Laius! <span class="cnm">3.</span> Laius!</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">177</span><a id="page_177" name="page_177"></a> +<span class="cnm">1.</span> <i>Hear! <span class="cnm">2.</span> Hear! <span class="cnm">3.</span> Hear!</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> <i>Hear and appear!<br /> +By the Fates that spun thy thread!</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cho.</span> <i>Which are three.</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> <i>By the furies fierce and dread!</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cho.</span> <i>Which are three.</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> <i>By the judges of the dead!</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cho.</span> <i>Which are three.<br /> +<span class="i3">Three times three!</span></i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> <i>By hell's blue flame:<br /> +<span class="i3">By the Stygian Lake:</span><br /> +<span class="i2">And by Demogorgon's name,</span><br /> +<span class="i3">At which ghosts quake,</span><br /> +<span class="i2">Hear and appear!</span></i> +<span class="sdr">[The Ghost of Laius rises armed in his chariot, +as he was slain. And behind his Chariot, +sit the three who were murdered with him.</span><br /><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ghost of Laius.</span> Why hast thou drawn me from my pain below,<br /> +To suffer worse above? to see the day,<br /> +And Thebes, more hated? Hell is heaven to Thebes.<br /> +For pity send me back, where I may hide,<br /> +In willing night, this ignominious head:<br /> +In hell I shun the public scorn; and then<br /> +They hunt me for their sport, and hoot me as I fly:<br /> +Behold even now they grin at my gored side,<br /> +And chatter at my wounds.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> I pity thee:<br /> +Tell but why Thebes is for thy death accurst,<br /> +And I'll unbind the charm.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ghost.</span> O spare my shame!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Are these two innocent?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ghost.</span> Of my death they are.<br /> +But he who holds my crown,—Oh, must I speak!—<br /> +Was doomed to do what nature most abhors.<br /> +The Gods foresaw it; and forbade his being,<br /> +Before he yet was born. I broke their laws,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">178</span><a id="page_178" name="page_178"></a> +And clothed with flesh his pre-existing soul.<br /> +Some kinder power, too weak for destiny,<br /> +Took pity, and endued his new-formed mass<br /> +With temperance, justice, prudence, fortitude,<br /> +And every kingly virtue: But in vain.<br /> +For fate, that sent him hood-winked to the world,<br /> +Performed its work by his mistaking hands.<br /> +Ask'st thou who murdered me? 'twas Œdipus:<br /> +Who stains my bed with incest? Œdipus:<br /> +For whom then are you curst, but Œdipus!<br /> +He comes, the parricide! I cannot bear him:<br /> +My wounds ake at him: Oh, his murderous breath<br /> +Venoms my airy substance! hence with him,<br /> +Banish him; sweep him out; the plague he bears<br /> +Will blast your fields, and mark his way with ruin.<br /> +From Thebes, my throne, my bed, let him be driven:<br /> +Do you forbid him earth, and I'll forbid him heaven. +<span class="sdr">[Ghost descends.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Œdipus, Creon, Hæmon,</span> &c.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> What's this! methought some pestilential blast<br /> +Struck me, just entering; and some unseen hand<br /> +Struggled to push me backward! tell me why<br /> +My hair stands bristling up, why my flesh trembles?<br /> +You stare at me! then hell has been among ye,<br /> +And some lag fiend yet lingers in the grove.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> What omen sawest thou, entering?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> A young stork,<br /> +That bore his aged parent on his back;<br /> +Till weary with the weight, he shook him off,<br /> +And pecked out both his eyes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Oh, Œdipus!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Oh, wretched Œdipus!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Oh, fatal king!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> What mean these exclamations on my name?<br /> +I thank the gods, no secret thoughts reproach me:<br /> +<span class="pgnm">179</span><a id="page_179" name="page_179"></a> +No: I dare challenge heaven to turn me outward,<br /> +And shake my soul quite empty in your sight.<br /> +Then wonder not that I can bear unmoved<br /> +These fixed regards, and silent threats of eyes.<br /> +A generous fierceness dwells with innocence;<br /> +And conscious virtue is allowed some pride.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Thou knowest not what thou sayest.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> What mutters he? tell me, Eurydice:<br /> +Thou shak'st: Thy soul's a woman;—speak, Adrastus,<br /> +And boldly, as thou met'st my arms in fight:—<br /> +Dar'st thou not speak? why then 'tis bad indeed.—<br /> +Tiresias, thee I summon by thy priesthood,<br /> +Tell me what news from hell; where Laius points,<br /> +And whose the guilty head!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Let me not answer.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Be dumb then, and betray thy native soil<br /> +To farther plagues.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> I dare not name him to thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Dar'st thou converse with hell, and canst thou fear<br /> +An human name?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Urge me no more to tell a thing, which, known,<br /> +Would make thee more unhappy: 'Twill be found,<br /> +Though I am silent.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Old and obstinate! Then thou thyself<br /> +Art author or accomplice of this murther,<br /> +And shun'st the justice, which by public ban<br /> +Thou hast incurred.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> O, if the guilt were mine,<br /> +It were not half so great: Know, wretched man,<br /> +Thou only, thou art guilty! thy own curse<br /> +Falls heavy on thyself.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Speak this again:<br /> +But speak it to the winds, when they are loudest,<br /> +Or to the raging seas; they'll hear as soon,<br /> +And sooner will believe.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Then hear me, heaven!<br /> +<span class="pgnm">180</span><a id="page_180" name="page_180"></a> +For, blushing, thou hast seen it; hear me, earth,<br /> +Whose hollow womb could not contain this murder,<br /> +But sent it back to light! And thou, hell, hear me!<br /> +Whose own black seal has 'firmed this horrid truth,<br /> +Œdipus murthered Laius!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Rot the tongue,<br /> +And blasted be the mouth that spoke that lie!<br /> +Thou blind of sight, but thou more blind of soul!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Thy parents thought not so.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Who were my parents?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Thou shalt know too soon.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Why seek I truth from thee?<br /> +The smiles of courtiers, and the harlot's tears,<br /> +The tradesman's oaths, and mourning of an heir,<br /> +Are truths to what priests tell.<br /> +O why has priest-hood privilege to lie,<br /> +And yet to be believed!—thy age protects thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Thou canst not kill me; 'tis not in thy fate,<br /> +As 'twas to kill thy father, wed thy mother,<br /> +And beget sons, thy brothers<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_4-9">[9]</a>.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Riddles, riddles!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Thou art thyself a riddle; a perplext<br /> +Obscure enigma, which when thou unty'st,<br /> +Thou shalt be found and lost.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Impossible!—<br /> +Adrastus, speak; and, as thou art a king,<br /> +Whose royal word is sacred, clear my fame.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Would I could!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Ha, wilt thou not? Can that plebeian vice<br /> +Of lying mount to kings? Can they be tainted?<br /> +Then truth is lost on earth.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> The cheat's too gross.<br /> +Adrastus is his oracle, and he,<br /> +The pious juggler, but Adrastus' organ.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">181</span><a id="page_181" name="page_181"></a> +<span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> 'Tis plain, the priest's suborned to free the prisoner.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> And turn the guilt, on you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> O, honest Creon, how hast thou been belied!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Hear me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> She's bribed to save her lover's life.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> If, Œdipus, thou think'st—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Hear him not speak.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Then hear these holy men.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Priests, priests; all bribed, all priests.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Adrastus, I have found thee:<br /> +The malice of a vanquished man has seized thee!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> If envy and not truth—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> I'll hear no more: Away with him. +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Hæmon</span> takes him off by force: <span class="cnm">Creon</span> and +<span class="cnm">Eurydice</span> follow.</span><br /> +[<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Tir.</span></span>] Why stand'st thou here, impostor?<br /> +So old, and yet so wicked,—Lie for gain?<br /> +And gain so short as age can promise thee!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> So short a time as I have yet to live,<br /> +Exceeds thy 'pointed hour;—remember Laius!<br /> +No more; if e'er we meet again, 'twill be<br /> +In mutual darkness; we shall feel before us<br /> +To reach each other's hand;—remember Laius! +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Tiresias:</span> Priests follow.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="cnm">Œdipus</span> solus.</p> + +<p class="dlg">Remember Laius! that's the burden still:<br /> +Murther and incest! but to hear them named<br /> +My soul starts in me: The good sentinel<br /> +Stands to her weapons, takes the first alarm<br /> +To guard me from such crimes.—Did I kill Laius?<br /> +Then I walked sleeping, in some frightful dream;<br /> +My soul then stole my body out by night;<br /> +And brought me back to bed ere morning-wake<br /> +It cannot be even this remotest way,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">182</span><a id="page_182" name="page_182"></a> +But some dark hint would justle forward now,<br /> +And goad my memory.—Oh my Jocasta!</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Jocasta.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Why are you thus disturbed?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Why, would'st thou think it?<br /> +No less than murder.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Murder! what of murder?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Is murder then no more? add parricide,<br /> +And incest; bear not these a frightful sound?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Alas!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> How poor a pity is alas,<br /> +For two such crimes!—was Laius us'd to lie?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Oh no: The most sincere, plain, honest man;<br /> +One who abhorred a lie.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Then he has got that quality in hell.<br /> +He charges me—but why accuse I him?<br /> +I did not hear him speak it: They accuse me,—<br /> +The priest, Adrastus and Eurydice,—<br /> +Of murdering Laius!—Tell me, while I think on't,<br /> +Has old Tiresias practised long this trade?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> What trade?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Why, this foretelling trade.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> For many years.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Has he before this day accused me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Never.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Have you ere this inquired who did this murder?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Often; but still in vain.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> I am satisfied.<br /> +Then 'tis an infant-lye; but one day old.<br /> +The oracle takes place before the priest;<br /> +The blood of Laius was to murder Laius:<br /> +I'm not of Laius' blood.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Even oracles<br /> +Are always doubtful, and are often forged:<br /> +<span class="pgnm">183</span><a id="page_183" name="page_183"></a> +Laius had one, which never was fulfilled,<br /> +Nor ever can be now.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> And what foretold it?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> That he should have a son by me, foredoomed<br /> +The murderer of his father: True, indeed,<br /> +A son was born; but, to prevent that crime,<br /> +The wretched infant of a guilty fate,<br /> +Bored through his untried feet, and bound with cords,<br /> +On a bleak mountain naked was exposed:<br /> +The king himself lived many, many years,<br /> +And found a different fate; by robbers murdered,<br /> +Where three ways met: Yet these are oracles,<br /> +And this the faith we owe them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Sayest thou, woman?<br /> +By heaven, thou hast awakened somewhat in me,<br /> +That shakes my very soul!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> What new disturbance?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Methought thou said'st—(or do I dream thou said'st it!)<br /> +This murder was on Laius' person done,<br /> +Where three ways meet?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> So common fame reports.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Would it had lied!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Why, good my lord?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> No questions.<br /> +'Tis busy time with me; despatch mine first;<br /> +Say where, where was it done!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Mean you the murder?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Could'st thou not answer without naming murder?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> They say in Phocide; on the verge that parts it<br /> +From Daulia, and from Delphos.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> So!—How long? when happened this?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">184</span><a id="page_184" name="page_184"></a> +<span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Some little time before you came to Thebes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> What will the gods do with me!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> What means that thought?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Something: But 'tis not yet your turn to ask:<br /> +How old was Laius, what his shape, his stature,<br /> +His action, and his mien? quick, quick, your answer!—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Big made he was, and tall: His port was fierce,<br /> +Erect his countenance: Manly majesty<br /> +Sate in his front, and darted from his eyes,<br /> +Commanding all he viewed: His hair just grizzled,<br /> +As in a green old age: Bate but his years,<br /> +You are his picture.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> [<i>Aside.</i>] Pray heaven he drew me not!—<br /> +Am I his picture?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> So I have often told you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> True, you have;<br /> +Add that unto the rest:—How was the king<br /> +Attended, when he travelled?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> By four servants:<br /> +He went out private.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Well counted still:—<br /> +One 'scaped, I hear; what since became of him?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> When he beheld you first, as king in Thebes,<br /> +He kneeled, and trembling begged I would dismiss him:<br /> +He had my leave; and now he lives retired.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> This man must be produced: he must, Jocasta.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> He shall—yet have I leave to ask you why?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Yes, you shall know: For where should I repose<br /> +The anguish of my soul, but in your breast!<br /> +I need not tell you Corinth claims my birth;<br /> +My parents, Polybus and Merope,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">185</span><a id="page_185" name="page_185"></a> +Two royal names; their only child am I.<br /> +It happened once,—'twas at a bridal feast,—<br /> +One, warm with wine, told me I was a foundling,<br /> +Not the king's son; I, stung with this reproach,<br /> +Struck him: My father heard of it: The man<br /> +Was made ask pardon; and the business hushed.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> 'Twas somewhat odd.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> And strangely it perplexed me.<br /> +I stole away to Delphos, and implored<br /> +The god, to tell my certain parentage.<br /> +He bade me seek no farther:—'Twas my fate<br /> +To kill my father, and pollute his bed,<br /> +By marrying her who bore me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Vain, vain oracles!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> But yet they frighted me;<br /> +I looked on Corinth as a place accurst,<br /> +Resolved my destiny should wait in vain,<br /> +And never catch me there.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Too nice a fear.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Suspend your thoughts; and flatter not too soon.<br /> +Just in the place you named, where three ways met.<br /> +And near that time, five persons I encountered;<br /> +One was too like, (heaven grant it prove not him!)<br /> +Whom you describe for Laius: insolent,<br /> +And fierce they were, as men who lived on spoil.<br /> +I judged them robbers, and by force repelled<br /> +The force they used: In short, four men I slew:<br /> +The fifth upon his knees demanding life,<br /> +My mercy gave it;—Bring me comfort now.<br /> +If I slew Laius, what can be more wretched!<br /> +From Thebes, and you, my curse has banished me:<br /> +From Corinth, fate.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Perplex not thus your mind.<br /> +My husband fell by multitudes opprest;<br /> +So Phorbas said: This band you chanced to meet:<br /> +<span class="pgnm">186</span><a id="page_186" name="page_186"></a> +And murdered not my Laius, but revenged him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> There's all my hope: Let Phorbas tell me this,<br /> +And I shall live again.—<br /> +To you, good gods, I make my last appeal;<br /> +Or clear my virtue, or my crime reveal:<br /> +If wandering in the maze of fate I run,<br /> +And backward trod the paths I sought to shun,<br /> +Impute my errors to your own decree;<br /> +My hands are guilty, but my heart is free.<span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT IV. SCENE I.</h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Pyracmon</span> and <span class="cnm">Creon.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pyr.</span> Some business of import, that triumph wears,<br /> +You seem to go with; nor is it hard to guess<br /> +When you are pleased, by a malicious joy,<br /> +Whose red and fiery beams cast through your visage<br /> +A glowing pleasure. Sure you smile revenge,<br /> +And I could gladly hear.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Would'st thou believe!<br /> +This giddy hair-brained king, whom old Tiresias<br /> +Has thunder-struck with heavy accusation,<br /> +Though conscious of no inward guilt, yet fears:<br /> +He fears Jocasta, fears himself, his shadow;<br /> +He fears the multitude; and,—which is worth<br /> +An age of laughter,—out of all mankind,<br /> +He chuses me to be his orator;<br /> +Swears that Adrastus, and the lean-looked prophet<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_4-10">[10]</a>,<br /> +Are joint conspirators; and wished me to<br /> +<span class="pgnm">187</span><a id="page_187" name="page_187"></a> +Appease the raving Thebans; which I swore<br /> +To do.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pyr.</span> A dangerous undertaking;<br /> +Directly opposite to your own interest.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> No, dull Pyracmon; when I left his presence<br /> +With all the wings, with which revenge could aid<br /> +My flight, I gained the midst o'the city;<br /> +There, standing on a pile of dead and dying,<br /> +I to the mad and sickly multitude,<br /> +With interrupting sobs, cry'd out,—O Thebes!<br /> +O wretched Thebes, thy king, thy Œdipus,<br /> +This barbarous stranger, this usurper, monster,<br /> +Is by the oracle, the wise Tiresias,<br /> +Proclaimed the murderer of thy royal Laius:<br /> +Jocasta too, no longer now my sister,<br /> +Is found complotter in the horrid deed.<br /> +Here I renounce all tie of blood and nature,<br /> +For thee, O Thebes, dear Thebes, poor bleeding Thebes!—<br /> +And there I wept, and then the rabble howled.<br /> +And roared, and with a thousand antic mouths<br /> +Gabbled revenge! revenge was all the cry.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pyr.</span> This cannot fail: I see you on the throne:<br /> +And Œdipus cast out.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Then strait came on<br /> +Alcander, with a wild and bellowing crowd,<br /> +Whom he had wrought; I whispered him to join.<br /> +And head the forces while the heat was in them.<br /> +So to the palace I returned, to meet<br /> +The king, and greet him with another story.—<br /> +But see, he enters.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Œdipus</span> and <span class="cnm">Jocasta,</span> attended.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Said you that Phorbas is returned, and yet<br /> +Intreats he may return, without being asked<br /> +<span class="pgnm">188</span><a id="page_188" name="page_188"></a> +Of aught concerning what we have discovered?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> He started when I told him your intent,<br /> +Replying, what he knew of that affair<br /> +Would give no satisfaction to the king;<br /> +Then, falling on his knees, begged, as for life,<br /> +To be dismissed from court: He trembled too,<br /> +As if convulsive death had seized upon him,<br /> +And stammered in his abrupt prayer so wildly,<br /> +That had he been the murderer of Laius,<br /> +Guilt and distraction could not have shook him more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> By your description, sure as plagues and death<br /> +Lay waste our Thebes, some deed that shuns the light<br /> +Begot those fears; if thou respect'st my peace,<br /> +Secure him, dear Jocasta; for my genius<br /> +Shrinks at his name.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Rather let him go:<br /> +So my poor boding heart would have it be,<br /> +Without a reason.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Hark, the Thebans come!<br /> +Therefore retire: And, once more, if thou lovest me,<br /> +Let Phorbas be retained.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> You shall, while I<br /> +Have life, be still obeyed.<br /> +In vain you sooth me with your soft endearments,<br /> +And set the fairest countenance to view;<br /> +Your gloomy eyes, my lord, betray a deadness<br /> +And inward languishing: That oracle<br /> +Eats like a subtle worm its venomed way,<br /> +Preys on your heart, and rots the noble core,<br /> +Howe'er the beauteous out-side shews so lovely.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> O, thou wilt kill me with thy love's excess!<br /> +All, all is well; retire, the Thebans come.<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Joc.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ghost.</span> Œdipus!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Ha! again that scream of woe!<br /> +<span class="pgnm">189</span><a id="page_189" name="page_189"></a> +Thrice have I heard, thrice, since the morning dawned,<br /> +It hollowed loud, as if my guardian spirit<br /> +Called from some vaulted mansion, Œdipus!<br /> +Or is it but the work of melancholy?<br /> +When the sun sets, shadows, that shewed at noon<br /> +But small, appear most long and terrible;<br /> +So, when we think fate hovers o'er our heads,<br /> +Our apprehensions shoot beyond all bounds;<br /> +Owls, ravens, crickets seem the watch of death;<br /> +Nature's worst vermin scare her godlike sons;<br /> +Echoes, the very leavings of a voice,<br /> +Grow babbling ghosts, and call us to our graves;<br /> +Each mole-hill thought swells to a huge Olympus;<br /> +While we fantastic dreamers heave and puff,<br /> +And sweat with an imagination's weight;<br /> +As if, like Atlas, with these mortal shoulders<br /> +We could sustain the burden of the world.<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Creon</span> comes forward.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> O, sacred sir, my royal lord—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> What now?<br /> +Thou seem'st affrighted at some dreadful action;<br /> +Thy breath comes short, thy darted eyes are fixt<br /> +On me for aid, as if thou wert pursued:<br /> +I sent thee to the Thebans; speak thy wonder:<br /> +Fear not; this palace is a sanctuary,<br /> +The king himself's thy guard.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> For me, alas,<br /> +My life's not worth a thought, when weighed with yours!<br /> +But fly, my lord; fly as your life is sacred.<br /> +Your fate is precious to your faithful Creon,<br /> +Who therefore, on his knees, thus prostrate begs<br /> +You would remove from Thebes, that vows your ruin.<br /> +When I but offered at your innocence,<br /> +They gathered stones, and menaced me with death,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">190</span><a id="page_190" name="page_190"></a> +And drove me through the streets, with imprecations<br /> +Against your sacred person, and those traitors<br /> +Who justified your guilt, which cursed Tiresias<br /> +Told, as from heaven, was cause of their destruction.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Rise, worthy Creon; haste and take our guard,<br /> +Rank them in equal part upon the square,<br /> +Then open every gate of this our palace,<br /> +And let the torrent in. Hark, it comes.<span class="sdr">[Shout.</span><br /> +I hear them roar: Begone, and break down all<br /> +The dams, that would oppose their furious passage. +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Creon</span> with Guards.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Adrastus,</span> his sword drawn.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Your city<br /> +Is all in arms, all bent to your destruction:<br /> +I heard but now, where I was close confined,<br /> +A thundering shout, which made my jailors vanish,<br /> +Cry,—fire the palace! where is the cruel king?<br /> +Yet, by the infernal Gods, those awful powers<br /> +That have accused you, which these ears have heard,<br /> +And these eyes seen, I must believe you guiltless;<br /> +For, since I knew the royal Œdipus,<br /> +I have observed in all his acts such truth,<br /> +And god-like clearness, that, to the last gush<br /> +Of blood and spirits, I'll defend his life,<br /> +And here have sworn to perish by his side.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Be witness, Gods, how near this touches me. +<span class="sdr">[Embracing him.</span><br /> +O what, what recompence can glory make?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Defend your innocence, speak like yourself,<br /> +And awe the rebels with your dauntless virtue.<br /> +But hark! the storm comes nearer.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Let it come.<br /> +The force of majesty is never known<br /> +But in a general wreck: Then, then is seen<br /> +The difference 'twixt a threshold and a throne.</p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="pgnm">191</span><a id="page_191" name="page_191"></a> +Enter <span class="cnm">Creon, Pyracmon, Alcander, Tiresias,</span> +Thebans.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alc.</span> Where, where's this cruel king?—Thebans, behold,<br /> +There stands your plague, the ruin, desolation<br /> +Of this unhappy—speak; shall I kill him?<br /> +Or shall he be cast out to banishment?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">All Theb.</span> To banishment, away with him!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Hence, you barbarians, to your slavish distance!<br /> +Fix to the earth your sordid looks; for he,<br /> +Who stirs, dares more than madmen, fiends, or furies.<br /> +Who dares to face me, by the Gods, as well<br /> +May brave the majesty of thundering Jove.<br /> +Did I for this relieve you, when besieged<br /> +By this fierce prince, when cooped within your walls,<br /> +And to the very brink of fate reduced;<br /> +When lean-jawed famine made more havock of you,<br /> +Than does the plague? But I rejoice I know you,<br /> +Know the base stuff that tempered your vile souls:<br /> +The Gods be praised, I needed not your empire,<br /> +Born to a greater, nobler, of my own;<br /> +Nor shall the sceptre of the earth now win me<br /> +To rule such brutes, so barbarous a people.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Methinks, my lord, I see a sad repentance,<br /> +A general consternation spread among them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> My reign is at an end; yet, ere I finish,<br /> +I'll do a justice that becomes a monarch;<br /> +A monarch, who, in the midst of swords and javelins,<br /> +Dares act as on his throne, encompast round<br /> +With nations for his guard. Alcander, you<br /> +Are nobly born, therefore shall lose your head:<span class="sdr">[Seizes him.</span><br /> +Here, Hæmon, take him: but for this, and this,<br /> +Let cords dispatch them. Hence, away with them!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> O sacred prince, pardon distracted Thebes,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">192</span><a id="page_192" name="page_192"></a> +Pardon her, if she acts by heaven's award;<br /> +If that the infernal spirits have declared<br /> +The depth of fate; and if our oracles<br /> +May speak, O do not too severely deal!<br /> +But let thy wretched Thebes at least complain.<br /> +If thou art guilty, heaven will make it known;<br /> +If innocent, then let Tiresias die.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> I take thee at thy word.—Run, haste, and save Alcander:<br /> +I swear, the prophet, or the king shall die.<br /> +Be witness, all you Thebans, of my oath;<br /> +And Phorbas be the umpire.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> I submit.<span class="sdr">[Trumpet sounds.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> What mean those trumpets?</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Hæmon</span> with <span class="cnm">Alcander,</span> &c.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> From your native country,<br /> +Great sir, the famed Ægeon is arrived,<br /> +That renowned favourite of the king your father:<br /> +He comes as an ambassador from Corinth,<br /> +And sues for audience.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Haste, Hæmon, fly, and tell him that I burn<br /> +To embrace him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> The queen, my lord, at present holds him<br /> +In private conference; but behold her here.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Jocasta, Eurydice,</span> &c.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Hail, happy Œdipus, happiest of kings!<br /> +Henceforth be blest, blest as thou canst desire;<br /> +Sleep without fears the blackest nights away;<br /> +Let furies haunt thy palace, thou shalt sleep<br /> +Secure, thy slumbers shall be soft and gentle<br /> +As infants' dreams.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> What does the soul of all my joys intend?<br /> +And whither would this rapture?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> O, I could rave,<br /> +Pull down those lying fanes, and burn that vault,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">193</span><a id="page_193" name="page_193"></a> +From whence resounded those false oracles,<br /> +That robbed my love of rest: If we must pray,<br /> +Rear in the streets bright altars to the Gods,<br /> +Let virgins' hands adorn the sacrifice;<br /> +And not a grey-beard forging priest come near,<br /> +To pry into the bowels of the victim,<br /> +And with his dotage mad the gaping world.<br /> +But see, the oracle that I will trust,<br /> +True as the Gods, and affable as men.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Ægeon.</span> Kneels.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> O, to my arms, welcome, my dear Ægeon;<br /> +Ten thousand welcomes! O, my foster-father,<br /> +Welcome as mercy to a man condemned!<br /> +Welcome to me, as, to a sinking mariner,<br /> +The lucky plank that bears him to the shore!<br /> +But speak, O tell me what so mighty joy<br /> +Is this thou bring'st, which so transports Jocasta?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Peace, peace, Ægeon, let Jocasta tell him!—<br /> +O that I could for ever charm, as now,<br /> +My dearest Œdipus! Thy royal father,<br /> +Polybus, king of Corinth, is no more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Ha! can it be? Ægeon, answer me;<br /> +And speak in short, what my Jocasta's transport<br /> +May over-do.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æge.</span> Since in few words, my royal lord, you ask<br /> +To know the truth,—king Polybus is dead.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> O all you powers, is't possible? what, dead!<br /> +But that the tempest of my joy may rise<br /> +By just degrees, and hit at last the stars,<br /> +Say, how, how died he? ha! by sword, by fire,<br /> +Or water? by assassinates, or poison? speak:<br /> +Or did he languish under some disease?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æge.</span> Of no distemper, of no blast he died,<br /> +But fell like autumn-fruit that mellowed long;<br /> +Even wondered at, because he dropt no sooner.<br /> +<span class="pgnm">194</span><a id="page_194" name="page_194"></a> +Fate seemed to wind him up for fourscore years;<br /> +Yet freshly ran he on ten winters more:<br /> +Till, like a clock worn out with eating time,<br /> +The wheels of weary life at last stood still.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> O, let me press thee in my youthful arms,<br /> +And smother thy old age in my embraces.<br /> +Yes, Thebans, yes, Jocasta, yes, Adrastus,<br /> +Old Polybus, the king my father's dead!<br /> +Fires shall be kindled in the midst of Thebes;<br /> +In the midst of tumult, wars, and pestilence,<br /> +I will rejoice for Polybus's death.<br /> +Know, be it known to the limits of the world;<br /> +Yet farther, let it pass yon dazzling roof,<br /> +The mansion of the Gods, and strike them deaf<br /> +With everlasting peals of thundering joy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Fate! Nature! Fortune! what is all this world?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Now, dotard; now, thou blind old wizard prophet,<br /> +Where are your boding ghosts, your altars now;<br /> +Your birds of knowledge, that in dusky air<br /> +Chatter futurity? And where are now<br /> +Your oracles, that called me parricide?<br /> +Is he not dead? deep laid in his monument?<br /> +And was not I in Thebes when fate attacked him?<br /> +Avaunt, begone, you vizors of the Gods!<br /> +Were I as other sons, now I should weep;<br /> +But, as I am, I have reason to rejoice:<br /> +And will, though his cold shade should rise and blast me.<br /> +O, for this death, let waters break their bounds;<br /> +Rocks, valleys, hills, with splitting Io's ring:<br /> +Io, Jocasta, Io pæan sing!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Who would not now conclude a happy end!<br /> +But all fate's turns are swift and unexpected.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æge.</span> Your royal mother Merope, as if<br /> +She had no soul since you forsook the land,<br /> +Waves all the neighbouring princes that adore her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">195</span><a id="page_195" name="page_195"></a> +<span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Waves all the princes! poor heart! for what?<br /> +O speak.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æge.</span> She, though in full-blown flower of glorious beauty,<br /> +Grows cold, even in the summer of her age,<br /> +And, for your sake, has sworn to die unmarried.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> How! for my sake, die and not marry! O<br /> +My fit returns.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æge.</span> This diamond, with a thousand kisses blest,<br /> +With thousand sighs and wishes for your safety,<br /> +She charged me give you, with the general homage<br /> +Of our Corinthian lords.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> There's magic in it, take it from my sight;<br /> +There's not a beam it darts, but carries hell,<br /> +Hot flashing lust, and necromantic incest:<br /> +Take it from these sick eyes, oh hide it from me!—<br /> +No, my Jocasta, though Thebes cast me out,<br /> +While Merope's alive, I'll ne'er return.<br /> +O, rather let me walk round the wide world<br /> +A beggar, than accept a diadem<br /> +On such abhorred conditions.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> You make, my lord, your own unhappiness,<br /> +By these extravagant and needless fears.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Needless! O, all you Gods! By heaven, I would rather<br /> +Embrue my arms, up to my very shoulders,<br /> +In the dear entrails of the best of fathers,<br /> +Than offer at the execrable act<br /> +Of damned incest: therefore no more of her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æge.</span> And why, O sacred sir, if subjects may<br /> +Presume to look into their monarch's breast,<br /> +Why should the chaste and spotless Merope<br /> +Infuse such thoughts, as I must blush to name?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Because the god of Delphos did forewarn me,<br /> +With thundering oracles.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æge.</span> May I entreat to know them?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Yes, my Ægeon; but the sad remembrance<br /> +<span class="pgnm">196</span><a id="page_196" name="page_196"></a> +Quite blasts my soul: See then the swelling priest!<br /> +Methinks, I have his image now in view!—<br /> +He mounts the tripos in a minute's space,<br /> +His clouded head knocks at the temple-roof;<br /> +While from his mouth,<br /> +These dismal words are heard:<br /> +"Fly, wretch, whom fate has doomed thy father's blood to spill,<br /> +And with preposterous births thy mother's womb to fill!"</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æge.</span> Is this the cause,<br /> +Why you refuse the diadem of Corinth?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> The cause! why, is it not a monstrous one!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æge.</span> Great sir, you may return; and though you should<br /> +Enjoy the queen, (which all the Gods forbid!)<br /> +The act would prove no incest.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> How, Ægeon?<br /> +Though I enjoy my mother, not incestuous!<br /> +Thou ravest, and so do I; and these all catch<br /> +My madness; look, they're dead with deep distraction:<br /> +Not incest! what, not incest with my mother?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æge.</span> My lord, queen Merope is not your mother.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Ha! did I hear thee right? not Merope<br /> +My mother!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æge.</span> Nor was Polybus your father.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Then all my days and nights must now be spent<br /> +In curious search, to find out those dark parents<br /> +Who gave me to the world; speak then, Ægeon.<br /> +By all the Gods celestial and infernal,<br /> +By all the ties of nature, blood and friendship,<br /> +Conceal not from this racked despairing king,<br /> +A point or smallest grain of what thou knowest:<br /> +Speak then, O answer to my doubts directly,<br /> +If royal Polybus was not my father,<br /> +Why was I called his son?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">197</span><a id="page_197" name="page_197"></a> +<span class="cnm">Æge.</span> He from my arms<br /> +Received you, as the fairest gift of nature.<br /> +Not but you were adorned with all the riches<br /> +That empire could bestow, in costly mantles,<br /> +Upon its infant heir.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> But was I made the heir of Corinth's crown,<br /> +Because Ægeon's hands presented me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æge.</span> By my advice,<br /> +Being past all hope of children,<br /> +He took, embraced, and owned you for his son.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Perhaps I then am yours; instruct me, sir;<br /> +If it be so, I'll kneel and weep before you.<br /> +With all the obedience of a penitent child,<br /> +Imploring pardon.<br /> +Kill me, if you please;<br /> +I will not writhe my body at the wound,<br /> +But sink upon your feet with a last sigh,<br /> +And ask forgiveness with my dying hands.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æge.</span> O rise, and call not to this aged cheek<br /> +The little blood which should keep warm my heart;<br /> +You are not mine, nor ought I to be blest<br /> +With such a god-like offspring. Sir, I found you<br /> +Upon the mount Cithæron.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> O speak, go on, the air grows sensible<br /> +Of the great things you utter, and is calm:<br /> +The hurried orbs, with storms so racked of late,<br /> +Seem to stand still, as if that Jove were talking.<br /> +Cithæron! speak, the valley of Cithæron!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æge.</span> Oft-times before, I thither did resort,<br /> +Charmed with the conversation of a man,<br /> +Who led a rural life, and had command<br /> +O'er all the shepherds, who about those vales<br /> +Tended their numerous flocks: in this man's arms,<br /> +I saw you smiling at a fatal dagger,<br /> +Whose point he often offered at your throat;<br /> +But then you smiled, and then he drew it back,<br /> +Then lifted it again,—you smiled again:<br /> +'Till he at last in fury threw it from him,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">198</span><a id="page_198" name="page_198"></a> +And cried aloud,—The Gods forbid thy death.<br /> +Then I rushed in, and, after some discourse,<br /> +To me he did bequeath your innocent life;<br /> +And I, the welcome care to Polybus.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> To whom belongs the master of the shepherds?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æge.</span> His name I knew not, or I have forgot:<br /> +That he was of the family of Laius,<br /> +I well remember.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> And is your friend alive? for if he be,<br /> +I'll buy his presence, though it cost my crown.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æge.</span> Your menial attendants best can tell<br /> +Whether he lives, or not; and who has now<br /> +His place.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Winds, bear me to some barren island,<br /> +Where print of human feet was never seen;<br /> +O'er-grown with weeds of such a monstrous height,<br /> +Their baleful tops are washed with bellying clouds;<br /> +Beneath whose venomous shade I may have vent<br /> +For horrors, that would blast the barbarous world!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> If there be any here that knows the person<br /> +Whom he described, I charge him on his life<br /> +To speak; concealment shall be sudden death:<br /> +But he, who brings him forth, shall have reward<br /> +Beyond ambition's lust.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> His name is Phorbas:<br /> +Jocasta knows him well; but, if I may<br /> +Advise, rest where you are, and seek no farther.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Then all goes well, since Phorbas is secured<br /> +By my Jocasta.—Haste, and bring him forth:<br /> +My love, my queen, give orders, Ha! what mean<br /> +These tears, and groans, and strugglings? speak, my fair,<br /> +What are thy troubles?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Yours; and yours are mine:<br /> +Let me conjure you, take the prophet's counsel,<br /> +And let this Phorbas go.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">199</span><a id="page_199" name="page_199"></a> +<span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Not for the world.<br /> +By all the Gods, I'll know my birth, though death<br /> +Attends the search. I have already past<br /> +The middle of the stream; and to return,<br /> +Seems greater labour than to venture over:<br /> +Therefore produce him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Once more, by the Gods,<br /> +I beg, my Œdipus, my lord, my life,<br /> +My love, my all, my only, utmost hope!<br /> +I beg you, banish Phorbas: O, the Gods,<br /> +I kneel, that you may grant this first request.<br /> +Deny me all things else; but for my sake,<br /> +And as you prize your own eternal quiet,<br /> +Never let Phorbas come into your presence.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> You must be raised, and Phorbas shall appear,<br /> +Though his dread eyes were basilisks. Guards, haste,<br /> +Search the queen's lodgings; find, and force him hither. +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt Guards.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> O, Œdipus, yet send,<br /> +And stop their entrance, ere it be too late;<br /> +Unless you wish to see Jocasta rent<br /> +With furies,—slain out-right with mere distraction!<br /> +Keep from your eyes and mine the dreadful Phorbas.<br /> +Forbear this search, I'll think you more than mortal;<br /> +Will you yet hear me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Tempests will be heard,<br /> +And waves will dash, though rocks their basis keep.<br /> +But see, they enter. If thou truly lovest me,<br /> +Either forbear this subject, or retire.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Hæmon,</span> Guards, with <span class="cnm">Phorbas.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Prepare then, wretched prince, prepare to hear<br /> +A story, that shall turn thee into stone.<br /> +Could there be hewn a monstrous gap in nature,<br /> +A flaw made through the centre, by some God,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">200</span><a id="page_200" name="page_200"></a> +Through which the groans of ghosts may strike thy ears,<br /> +They would not wound thee, as this story will.<br /> +Hark, hark! a hollow voice calls out aloud,<br /> +Jocasta! Yes, I'll to the royal bed,<br /> +Where first the mysteries of our loves were acted,<br /> +And double-dye it with imperial crimson;<br /> +Tear off this curling hair,<br /> +Be gorged with fire, stab every vital part,<br /> +And, when at last I'm slain, to crown the horror,<br /> +My poor tormented ghost shall cleave the ground,<br /> +To try if hell can yet more deeply wound.<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> She's gone; and, as she went, methought her eyes<br /> +Grew larger, while a thousand frantic spirits,<br /> +Seething like rising bubbles on the brim,<br /> +Peeped from the watry brink, and glowed upon me.<br /> +I'll seek no more; but hush my genius up,<br /> +That throws me on my fate.—Impossible!<br /> +O wretched man, whose too too busy thoughts<br /> +Hide swifter than the gallopping heaven's round,<br /> +With an eternal hurry of the soul.<br /> +Nay, there's a time when even the rolling year<br /> +Seems to stand still, dead calms are in the ocean,<br /> +When not a breath disturbs the drowzy waves:<br /> +But man, the very monster of the world,<br /> +Is ne'er at rest; the soul for ever wakes.<br /> +Come then, since destiny thus drives us on,<br /> +Let us know the bottom.—Hæmon, you I sent;<br /> +Where is that Phorbas?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> Here, my royal lord.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Speak first, Ægeon, say, is this the man?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æge.</span> My lord, it is; Though time has ploughed that face<br /> +With many furrows since I saw it first,<br /> +Yet I'm too well acquainted with the ground,<br /> +Quite to forget it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">201</span><a id="page_201" name="page_201"></a> +<span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Peace; stand back a while.—<br /> +Come hither, friend; I hear thy name is Phorbas.<br /> +Why dost thou turn thy face? I charge thee answer<br /> +To what I shall enquire: Wert thou not once<br /> +The servant to king Laius here in Thebes?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> I was, great sir, his true and faithful servant;<br /> +Born and bred up in court, no foreign slave.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> What office hadst thou? what was thy employment?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> He made me lord of all his rural pleasures;<br /> +For much he loved them: oft I entertained him<br /> +With sporting swains, o'er whom I had command.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Where was thy residence? to what part of the country<br /> +Didst thou most frequently resort?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> To mount Cithæron, and the pleasant vallies<br /> +Which all about lie shadowing its large feet.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Come forth, Ægeon.—Ha! why start'st thou, Phorbas?<br /> +Forward, I say, and face to face confront him:<br /> +Look wistly on him,—through him, if thou canst!<br /> +And tell me on thy life, say, dost thou know him?<br /> +Didst thou e'er see him? e'er converse with him<br /> +Near mount Cithæron?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> Who, my lord, this man?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> This man, this old, this venerable man:<br /> +Speak, did'st thou ever meet him there?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> Where, sacred sir?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Near mount Cithæron; answer to the purpose,<br /> +'Tis a king speaks; and royal minutes are<br /> +Of much more worth than thousand vulgar years:<br /> +Did'st thou e'er see this man near mount Cithæron?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> Most sure, my lord, I have seen lines like those<br /> +His visage bears; but know not where, nor when.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">202</span><a id="page_202" name="page_202"></a> +<span class="cnm">Æge.</span> Is't possible you should forget your ancient friend?<br /> +There are, perhaps,<br /> +Particulars, which may excite your dead remembrance.<br /> +Have you forgot I took an infant from you,<br /> +Doomed to be murdered in that gloomy vale?<br /> +The swaddling-bands were purple, wrought with gold.<br /> +Have you forgot, too, how you wept, and begged<br /> +That I should breed him up, and ask no more?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> Whate'er I begged, thou, like a dotard, speak'st<br /> +More than is requisite; and what of this?<br /> +Why is it mentioned now? And why, O why<br /> +Dost thou betray the secrets of thy friend?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æge.</span> Be not too rash. That infant grew at last<br /> +A king; and here the happy monarch stands.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> Ha! whither would'st thou? O what hast thou uttered!<br /> +For what thou hast said, death strike thee dumb for ever!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Forbear to curse the innocent; and be<br /> +Accurst thyself, thou shifting traitor, villain,<br /> +Damned hypocrite, equivocating slave!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> O heavens! wherein, my lord, have I offended?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Why speak you not according to my charge?<br /> +Bring forth the rack: since mildness cannot win you,<br /> +Torments shall force.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> Hold, hold, O dreadful sir!<br /> +You will not rack an innocent old man?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Speak then.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> Alas! What would you have me say?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Did this old man take from your arms an infant?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> He did: And, Oh! I wish to all the gods,<br /> +Phorbas had perished in that very moment.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">203</span><a id="page_203" name="page_203"></a> +<span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Moment! Thou shalt be hours, days, years, a dying.—<br /> +Here, bind his hands; he dallies with my fury:<br /> +But I shall find a way—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> My lord, I said<br /> +I gave the infant to him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Was he thy own, or given thee by another?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> He was not mine, but given me by another.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Whence? and from whom? what city? of what house?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> O, royal sir, I bow me to the ground;<br /> +Would I could sink beneath it! by the gods,<br /> +I do conjure you to inquire no more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Furies and hell! Hæmon, bring forth the rack,<br /> +Fetch hither cords, and knives, and sulphurous flames:<br /> +He shall be bound and gashed, his skin flead off,<br /> +And burnt alive.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> O spare my age.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Rise then, and speak.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> Dread sir, I will.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Who gave that infant to thee?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> One of king Laius' family.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> O, you immortal gods!—But say, who was't?<br /> +Which of the family of Laius gave it?<br /> +A servant, or one of the royal blood?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> O wretched state! I die, unless I speak;<br /> +And if I speak, most certain death attends me!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Thou shalt not die. Speak, then, who was it? speak,<br /> +While I have sense to understand the horror;<br /> +For I grow cold.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> The queen Jocasta told me,<br /> +It was her son by Laius.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> O you gods!—But did she give it thee?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> My lord, she did.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">204</span><a id="page_204" name="page_204"></a> +<span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Wherefore? for what?—O break not yet, my heart;<br /> +Though my eyes burst, no matter:—wilt thou tell me,<br /> +Or must I ask for ever? for what end,<br /> +Why gave she thee her child?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> To murder it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> O more than savage! murder her own bowels,<br /> +Without a cause!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> There was a dreadful one,<br /> +Which had foretold, that most unhappy son<br /> +Should kill his father, and enjoy his mother.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> But one thing more.<br /> +Jocasta told me, thou wert by the chariot<br /> +When the old king was slain: Speak, I conjure thee,<br /> +For I shall never ask thee aught again,—<br /> +What was the number of the assassinates?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Phor.</span> The dreadful deed was acted but by one;<br /> +And sure that one had much of your resemblance.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> 'Tis well! I thank you, gods! 'tis wondrous well!<br /> +Daggers, and poison! O there is no need<br /> +For my dispatch: And you, you merciless powers,<br /> +Hoard up your thunder-stones; keep, keep your bolts,<br /> +For crimes of little note.<span class="sdr">[Falls.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Help, Hæmon, help, and bow him gently forward;<br /> +Chafe, chafe his temples: How the mighty spirits,<br /> +Half-strangled with the damp his sorrows raised,<br /> +Struggle for vent! But see, he breathes again,<br /> +And vigorous nature breaks through opposition.—<br /> +How fares my royal friend?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> The worse for you.<br /> +O barbarous men, and oh the hated light,<br /> +Why did you force me back, to curse the day;<br /> +To curse my friends; to blast with this dark breath<br /> +<span class="pgnm">205</span><a id="page_205" name="page_205"></a> +The yet untainted earth and circling air?<br /> +To raise new plagues, and call new vengeance down,<br /> +Why did you tempt the gods, and dare to touch me?<br /> +Methinks there's not a hand that grasps this hell,<br /> +But should run up like flax all blazing fire.<br /> +Stand from this spot, I wish you as my friends,<br /> +And come not near me, lest the gaping earth<br /> +Swallow you too.—Lo, I am gone already. +<span class="sdr">[Draws, and claps his Sword to his Breast, +which <span class="cnm">Adrastus</span> strikes away with his +Foot.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> You shall no more be trusted with your life:—<br /> +Creon, Alcander, Hæmon, help to hold him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Cruel Adrastus! wilt thou, Hæmon, too?<br /> +Are these the obligations of my friends?<br /> +O worse than worst of my most barbarous foes!<br /> +Dear, dear Adrastus, look with half an eye<br /> +On my unheard of woes, and judge thyself,<br /> +If it be fit that such a wretch should live!<br /> +O, by these melting eyes, unused to weep,<br /> +With all the low submissions of a slave,<br /> +I do conjure thee, give my horrors way!<br /> +Talk not of life, for that will make me rave:<br /> +As well thou may'st advise a tortured wretch,<br /> +All mangled o'er from head to foot with wounds,<br /> +And his bones broke, to wait a better day.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> My lord, you ask me things impossible;<br /> +And I with justice should be thought your foe,<br /> +To leave you in this tempest of your soul.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Though banished Thebes, in Corinth you may reign;<br /> +The infernal powers themselves exact no more:<br /> +Calm then your rage, and once more seek the gods.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> I'll have no more to do with gods, nor men;<br /> +Hence, from my arms, avaunt. Enjoy thy mother!<br /> +What, violate, with bestial appetite,<br /> +The sacred veils that wrapt thee yet unborn!<br /> +<span class="pgnm">206</span><a id="page_206" name="page_206"></a> +This is not to be borne! Hence; off, I say!<br /> +For they, who let my vengeance, make themselves<br /> +Accomplices in my most horrid guilt.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Let it be so; we'll fence heav'n's fury from you,<br /> +And suffer all together. This, perhaps,<br /> +When ruin comes, may help to break your fall.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> O that, as oft I have at Athens seen<br /> +The stage arise, and the big clouds descend;<br /> +So now, in very deed I might behold<br /> +The pond'rous earth, and all yon marble roof<br /> +Meet, like the hand of Jove, and crush mankind!<br /> +For all the elements, and all the powers<br /> +Celestial, nay, terrestrial, and infernal,<br /> +Conspire the wreck of out-cast Œdipus!<br /> +Fall darkness then, and everlasting night<br /> +Shadow the globe; may the sun never dawn;<br /> +The silver moon be blotted from her orb;<br /> +And for an universal rout of nature<br /> +Through all the inmost chambers of the sky,<br /> +May there not be a glimpse, one starry spark,<br /> +But gods meet gods, and jostle in the dark;<br /> +That jars may rise, and wrath divine be hurled,<br /> +Which may to atoms shake the solid world!<span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT V.—SCENE I.</h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Creon, Alcander,</span> and <span class="cnm">Pyracmon.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Creon.</span> Thebes is at length my own; and all my wishes,<br /> +Which sure were great as royalty e'er formed,<br /> +Fortune and my auspicious stars have crowned.<br /> +O diadem, thou centre of ambition,<br /> +Where all its different lines are reconciled,<br /> +As if thou wert the burning glass of glory!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">207</span><a id="page_207" name="page_207"></a> +<span class="cnm">Pyr.</span> Might I be counsellor, I would intreat you<br /> +To cool a little, sir; find out Eurydice;<br /> +And, with the resolution of a man<br /> +Marked out for greatness, give the fatal choice<br /> +Of death or marriage.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alc.</span> Survey cursed Œdipus,<br /> +As one who, though unfortunate, beloved,<br /> +Thought innocent, and therefore much lamented<br /> +By all the Thebans: you must mark him dead,<br /> +Since nothing but his death, not banishment,<br /> +Can give assurance to your doubtful reign.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Well have you done, to snatch me from the storm<br /> +Of racking transport, where the little streams<br /> +Of love, revenge, and all the under passions,<br /> +As waters are by sucking whirlpools drawn,<br /> +Were quite devoured in the vast gulph of empire.<br /> +Therefore, Pyracmon, as you boldly urged,<br /> +Eurydice shall die, or be my bride.<br /> +Alcander, summon to their master's aid<br /> +My menial servants, and all those whom change<br /> +Of state, and hope of the new monarch's favour,<br /> +Can win to take our part: Away.—What now?<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Alcander.</span></span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Hæmon.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg">When Hæmon weeps, without the help of ghosts<br /> +I may foretel there is a fatal cause.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> Is't possible you should be ignorant<br /> +Of what has happened to the desperate king?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> I know no more but that he was conducted<br /> +Into his closet, where I saw him fling<br /> +His trembling body on the royal bed;<br /> +All left him there, at his desire, alone;<br /> +But sure no ill, unless he died with grief,<br /> +Could happen, for you bore his sword away.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">208</span><a id="page_208" name="page_208"></a> +<span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> I did; and, having locked the door, I stood;<br /> +And through a chink I found, not only heard,<br /> +But saw him, when he thought no eye beheld him.<br /> +At first, deep sighs heaved from his woful heart<br /> +Murmurs, and groans that shook the outward rooms.<br /> +And art thou still alive, O wretch! he cried;<br /> +Then groaned again, as if his sorrowful soul<br /> +Had cracked the strings of life, and burst away.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> I weep to hear; how then should I have grieved,<br /> +Had I beheld this wondrous heap of sorrow!<br /> +But, to the fatal period.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> Thrice he struck,<br /> +With all his force, his hollow groaning breast,<br /> +And thus, with outcries, to himself complained:—<br /> +But thou canst weep then, and thou think'st 'tis well,<br /> +These bubbles of the shallowest emptiest sorrow,<br /> +Which children vent for toys, and women rain<br /> +For any trifle their fond hearts are set on;<br /> +Yet these thou think'st are ample satisfaction<br /> +For bloodiest murder, and for burning lust:<br /> +No, parricide! if thou must weep, weep blood;<br /> +Weep eyes, instead of tears:—O, by the gods!<br /> +'Tis greatly thought, he cried, and fits my woes.<br /> +Which said, he smiled revengefully, and leapt<br /> +Upon the floor; thence gazing at the skies,<br /> +His eye-balls fiery red, and glowing vengeance,—<br /> +Gods I accuse you not, though I no more<br /> +Will view your heaven, till, with more durable glasses,<br /> +The mighty soul's immortal perspectives,<br /> +I find your dazzling beings: Take, he cried,<br /> +Take, eyes, your last, your fatal farewel-view.<br /> +Then with a groan, that seemed the call of death,<br /> +With horrid force lifting his impious hands,<br /> +He snatched, he tore, from forth their bloody orbs,<br /> +The balls of sight, and dashed them on the ground.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> A master-piece of horror; new and dreadful!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> I ran to succour him; but, oh! too late;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">209</span><a id="page_209" name="page_209"></a> +For he had plucked the remnant strings away.<br /> +What then remains, but that I find Tiresias,<br /> +Who, with his wisdom, may allay those furies,<br /> +That haunt his gloomy soul?<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Heaven will reward<br /> +Thy care, most honest, faithful,—foolish Hæmon!<br /> +But see, Alcander enters, well attended.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Alcander,</span> attended.</p> + +<p class="dlg">I see thou hast been diligent.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alc.</span> Nothing these,<br /> +For number, to the crowds that soon will follow;<br /> +Be resolute,<br /> +And call your utmost fury to revenge.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Ha! thou hast given<br /> +The alarm to cruelty; and never may<br /> +These eyes be closed, till they behold Adrastus<br /> +Stretched at the feet of false Eurydice.<br /> +But see, they are here! retire a while, and mark.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Adrastus,</span> and <span class="cnm">Eurydice,</span> attended.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Alas, Eurydice, what fond rash man,<br /> +What inconsiderate and ambitious fool,<br /> +That shall hereafter read the fate of Œdipus,<br /> +Will dare, with his frail hand, to grasp a sceptre?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> 'Tis true, a crown seems dreadful, and I wish<br /> +That you and I, more lowly placed, might pass<br /> +Our softer hours in humble cells away:<br /> +Not but I love you to that infinite height,<br /> +I could (O wondrous proof of fiercest love!)<br /> +Be greatly wretched in a court with you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Take then this most loved innocence away;<br /> +Fly from tumultuous Thebes, from blood and murder,<br /> +Fly from the author of all villainies,<br /> +Rapes, death, and treason, from that fury Creon:<br /> +<span class="pgnm">210</span><a id="page_210" name="page_210"></a> +Vouchsafe that I, o'er-joyed, may bear you hence,<br /> +And at your feet present the crown of Argos. +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Creon</span> and attendants come up to him.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> I have o'er-heard thy black design, Adrastus,<br /> +And therefore, as a traitor to this state,<br /> +Death ought to be thy lot: Let it suffice<br /> +That Thebes surveys thee as a prince; abuse not<br /> +Her proffered mercy, but retire betimes,<br /> +Lest she repent, and hasten on thy doom.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Think not, most abject, most abhorred of men,<br /> +Adrastus will vouchsafe to answer thee;—<br /> +Thebans to you I justify my love:<br /> +I have addrest my prayer to this fair princess;<br /> +But, if I ever meant a violence,<br /> +Or thought to ravish, as that traitor did,<br /> +What humblest adorations could not win,<br /> +Brand me, you gods, blot me with foul dishonour,<br /> +And let men curse me by the name of Creon!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Hear me, O Thebans, if you dread the wrath<br /> +Of her whom fate ordained to be your queen;<br /> +Hear me, and dare not, as you prize your lives,<br /> +To take the part of that rebellious traitor.<br /> +By the decree of royal Œdipus,<br /> +By queen Jocasta's order, by what's more,<br /> +My own dear vows of everlasting love,<br /> +I here resign, to prince Adrastus' arms,<br /> +All that the world can make me mistress of.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> O perjured woman!<br /> +Draw all; and when I give the word, fall on.—<br /> +Traitor, resign the princess, or this moment<br /> +Expect, with all those most unfortunate wretches,<br /> +Upon this spot straight to be hewn in pieces.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> No, villain, no;<br /> +With twice those odds of men,<br /> +I doubt not in this cause to vanquish thee.—<br /> +Captain remember to your care I give<br /> +<span class="pgnm">211</span><a id="page_211" name="page_211"></a> +My love; ten thousand, thousand times more clear,<br /> +Than life or liberty.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Fall on, Alcander.—<br /> +Pyracmon you and I must wheel about<br /> +For nobler game, the princess.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Ah, traito2, dost thou shun me?<br /> +Follow, follow,<br /> +My brave companions! see, the cowards fly! +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt fighting: <span class="cnm">Cruon's</span> Party beaten off +by <span class="cnm">Adrastus.</span></span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Œdipus.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span>O, 'tis too little this; thy loss of sight,<br /> +What has it done? I shall be gazed at now<br /> +The more; be pointed at, There goes the monster!<br /> +Nor have I hid my horrors from myself;<br /> +For, though corporeal light be lost for ever,<br /> +The bright reflecting soul, through glaring optics,<br /> +Presents in larger size her black ideas,<br /> +Doubling the bloody prospect of my crimes;<br /> +Holds fancy down, and makes her act again,<br /> +With wife and mother:—Tortures, hell and furies!<br /> +Ha! now the baleful offspring's brought to light!<br /> +In horrid form, they rank themselves before me;—<br /> +What shall I call this medley of creation?<br /> +Here one, with all the obedience of a son,<br /> +Borrowing Jocasta's look, kneels at my feet,<br /> +And calls me father; there, a sturdy boy,<br /> +Resembling Laius just as when I killed him,<br /> +Bears up, and with his cold hand grasping mine,<br /> +Cries out, how fares my brother Œdipus?<br /> +What, sons and brothers! Sisters and daughters too!<br /> +Fly all, begone, fly from my whirling brain!<br /> +Hence, incest, murder! hence, you ghastly figures!<br /> +O Gods! Gods, answer; is there any mean?<br /> +Let me go mad, or die.</p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="pgnm">212</span><a id="page_212" name="page_212"></a> +Enter <span class="cnm">Jocasta.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Where, where is this most wretched of mankind,<br /> +This stately image of imperial sorrow,<br /> +Whose story told, whose very name but mentioned,<br /> +Would cool the rage of fevers, and unlock<br /> +The hand of lust from the pale virgin's hair,<br /> +And throw the ravisher before her feet?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> By all my fears, I think Jocasta's voice!—<br /> +Hence fly; begone! O thou far worse than worst<br /> +Of damning charmers! O abhorred, loathed creature!<br /> +Fly, by the gods, or by the fiends, I charge thee,<br /> +Far as the East, West, North, or South of heaven,<br /> +But think not thou shalt ever enter there;<br /> +The golden gates are barred with adamant,<br /> +'Gainst thee, and me; and the celestial guards,<br /> +Still as we rise, will dash our spirits down.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> O wretched pair! O greatly wretched we!<br /> +Two worlds of woe!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Art thou not gone then? ha!<br /> +How darest thou stand the fury of the gods?<br /> +Or comest thou in the grave to reap new pleasures?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Talk on, till thou mak'st mad my rolling brain;<br /> +Groan still more death; and may those dismal sources<br /> +Still bubble on, and pour forth blood and tears.<br /> +Methinks, at such a meeting, heaven stands still;<br /> +The sea, nor ebbs, nor flows; this mole-hill earth<br /> +Is heaved no more; the busy emmets cease:<br /> +Yet hear me on—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Speak, then, and blast my soul.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> O, my loved lord, though I resolve a ruin,<br /> +To match my crimes; by all my miseries,<br /> +'Tis horror, worse than thousand thousand deaths,<br /> +To send me hence without a kind farewell.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">213</span><a id="page_213" name="page_213"></a> +<span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Gods, how she shakes me!—stay thee, O Jocasta!<br /> +Speak something ere thou goest for ever from me!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> 'Tis woman's weakness, that I would be pitied;<br /> +Pardon me then, O greatest, though most wretched.<br /> +Of all thy kind! My soul is on the brink,<br /> +And sees the boiling furnace just beneath:<br /> +Do not thou push me off, and I will go,<br /> +With such a willingness, as if that heaven<br /> +With all its glory glowed for my reception.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> O, in my heart I feel the pangs of nature;<br /> +It works with kindness o'er: give, give me way!<br /> +I feel a melting here, a tenderness,<br /> +Too mighty for the anger of the gods!<br /> +Direct me to thy knees: yet, oh forbear,<br /> +Lest the dead embers should revive.<br /> +Stand off, and at just distance<br /> +Let me groan my horrors!—here<br /> +On the earth, here blow my utmost gale;<br /> +Here sob my sorrows, till I burst with sighing;<br /> +Here gasp and languish out my wounded soul.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> In spite of all those crimes the cruel gods<br /> +Can charge me with, I know my innocence;<br /> +Know yours. 'Tis fate alone that makes us wretched,<br /> +For you are still my husband.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Swear I am,<br /> +And I'll believe thee; steal into thy arms,<br /> +Renew endearments, think them no pollutions,<br /> +But chaste as spirits' joys. Gently I'll come,<br /> +Thus weeping blind, like dewy night, upon thee,<br /> +And fold thee softly in my arms to slumber. +<span class="sdr">[The Ghost of <span class="cnm">Laius</span> ascends by degrees, +pointing at <span class="cnm">Jocasta.</span></span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Begone, my lord! Alas, what are we doing?<br /> +Fly from my arms! Whirlwinds, seas, continents,<br /> +And worlds, divide us! O, thrice happy thou,<br /> +Who hast no use of eyes; for here's a sight<br /> +<span class="pgnm">214</span><a id="page_214" name="page_214"></a> +Would turn the melting face of mercy's self<br /> +To a wild fury.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Ha! what seest thou there?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> The spirit of my husband! O, the gods!<br /> +How wan he looks!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Thou ravest; thy husband's here.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> There, there he mounts<br /> +In circling fire among the blushing clouds!<br /> +And see, he waves Jocasta from the world!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ghost.</span> Jocasta, Œdipus. +<span class="sdr">[Vanish with thunder.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> What wouldst thou have?<br /> +Thou knowest I cannot come to thee, detained<br /> +In darkness here, and kept from means of death.<br /> +I've heard a spirit's force is wonderful;<br /> +At whose approach, when starting from his dungeon,<br /> +The earth does shake, and the old ocean groans,<br /> +Rocks are removed, and towers are thundered down;<br /> +And walls of brass, and gates of adamant<br /> +Are passable as air, and fleet like winds.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Was that a raven's croak, or my son's voice?<br /> +No matter which; I'll to the grave and hide me.<br /> +Earth open, or I'll tear thy bowels up.<br /> +Hark! he goes on, and blabs the deed of incest.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Strike then, imperial ghost; dash all at once<br /> +This house of clay into a thousand pieces;<br /> +That my poor lingering soul may take her flight<br /> +To your immortal dwellings.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Haste thee, then,<br /> +Or I shall be before thee. See,—thou canst not see!<br /> +Then I will tell thee that my wings are on.<br /> +I'll mount, I'll fly, and with a port divine<br /> +Glide all along the gaudy milky soil,<br /> +To find my Laius out; ask every god<br /> +In his bright palace, if he knows my Laius,<br /> +My murdered Laius!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Ha! how's this, Jocasta?<br /> +Nay, if thy brain be sick, then thou art happy.<br /> +<span class="pgnm">215</span><a id="page_215" name="page_215"></a> +<i>Joc.</i> Ha! will you not? shall I not find him out?<br /> +Will you not show him? are my tears despised?<br /> +Why, then I'll thunder, yes, I will be mad,<br /> +And fright you with my cries. Yes, cruel gods,<br /> +Though vultures, eagles, dragons tear my heart,<br /> +I'll snatch celestial flames, fire all your dwellings,<br /> +Melt down your golden roofs, and make your doors<br /> +Of crystal fly from off their diamond hinges;<br /> +Drive you all out from your ambrosial hives,<br /> +To swarm like bees about the field of heaven.<br /> +This will I do, unless you show me Laius,<br /> +My dear, my murdered lord. O Laius! Laius! Laius! +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Jocasta.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Excellent grief! why, this is as it should be!<br /> +No mourning can be suitable to crimes<br /> +Like ours, but what death makes, or madness forms.<br /> +I could have wished, methought, for sight again,<br /> +To mark the gallantry of her distraction;<br /> +Her blazing eyes darting the wandering stars,<br /> +To have seen her mouth the heavens, and mate the gods,<br /> +While with her thundering voice she menaced high,<br /> +And every accent twanged with smarting sorrow;<br /> +But what's all this to thee? thou, coward, yet<br /> +Art living, canst not, wilt not find the road<br /> +To the great palace of magnificent Death;<br /> +Though thousand ways lead to his thousand doors,<br /> +Which, day and night, are still unbarred for all. +<span class="sdr">[Clashing of Swords. Drums and Trumpets without.</span><br /> +Hark! 'tis the noise of clashing swords! the sound<br /> +Comes near;—O, that a battle would come o'er me!<br /> +If I but grasp a sword, or wrest a dagger,<br /> +I'll make a ruin with the first that falls.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Hæmon,</span> with Guards.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> Seize him, and bear him to the western tower.—<br /> +<span class="pgnm">216</span><a id="page_216" name="page_216"></a> +Pardon me, sacred sir; I am informed<br /> +That Creon has designs upon your life:<br /> +Forgive me, then, if, to preserve you from him,<br /> +I order your confinement.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Slaves, unhand me!—<br /> +I think thou hast a sword;—'twas the wrong side.<br /> +Yet, cruel Hæmon, think not I will live;<br /> +He, that could tear his eyes out, sure can find<br /> +Some desperate way to stifle this cursed breath:<br /> +Or if I starve!—but that's a lingering fate;<br /> +Or if I leave my brains upon the wall!—<br /> +The airy soul can easily o'er-shoot<br /> +Those bounds, with which thou striv'st to pale her in.<br /> +Yes, I will perish in despite of thee;<br /> +And, by the rage that stirs me, if I meet thee<br /> +In the other world, I'll curse thee for this usage.<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> Tiresias, after him, and with your counsel,<br /> +Advise him humbly: charm, if possible,<br /> +These feuds within; while I without extinguish,<br /> +Or perish in the attempt, the furious Creon;<br /> +That brand which sets our city in a flame.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Heaven prosper your intent, and give a period<br /> +To all our plagues. What old Tiresias can,<br /> +Shall straight be done.—Lead, Manto, to the tower. +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Tiresias</span> and <span class="cnm">Manto.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> Follow me all, and help to part this fray, +<span class="sdr">[Trumpets again.</span><br /> +Or fall together in the bloody broil.<span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Creon</span> with <span class="cnm">Eurydice; Pyracmon,</span> and +his party, giving Ground to <span class="cnm">Adrastus.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Hold, hold your arms, Adrastus, prince of Argos!<br /> +Hear, and behold; Eurydice is my prisoner.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> What would'st thou, hell-hound?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> See this brandished dagger;<br /> +Forego the advantage which thy arms have won.<br /> +<span class="pgnm">217</span><a id="page_217" name="page_217"></a> +Or, by the blood which trembles through the heart<br /> +Of her, whom more than life I know thou lovest,<br /> +I'll bury to the haft, in her fair breast,<br /> +This instrument of my revenge.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Stay thee, damned wretch; hold, stop thy bloody hand!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Give order, then, that on this instant, now,<br /> +This moment, all thy soldiers straight disband.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Away, my friends, since fate has so allotted;<br /> +Begone, and leave me to the villain's mercy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Ah, my Adrastus! call them, call them back!<br /> +Stand there; come back! O, cruel barbarous men!<br /> +Could you then leave your lord, your prince, your king,<br /> +After so bravely having fought his cause,<br /> +To perish by the hand of this base villain?<br /> +Why rather rush you not at once together<br /> +All to his ruin? drag him through the streets,<br /> +Hang his contagious quarters on the gates;<br /> +Nor let my death affright you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Die first thyself, then.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> O, I charge thee hold!—<br /> +Hence from my presence, all; he's not my friend<br /> +That disobeys.—See, art thou now appeased?<span class="sdr">[Exeunt Attendants.</span><br /> +Or is there aught else yet remains to do,<br /> +That can atone thee? slake thy thirst of blood<br /> +With mine; but save, O save that innocent wretch!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Forego thy sword, and yield thyself my prisoner.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Yet, while there's any dawn of hope to save<br /> +Thy precious life, my dear Adrastus,<br /> +Whate'er thou dost, deliver not thy sword;<br /> +With that thou may'st get off, tho' odds oppose thee.<br /> +For me, O fear not; no, he dares not touch me;<br /> +His horrid love will spare me. Keep thy sword;<br /> +Lest I be ravished after thou art slain.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Instruct me, gods, what shall Adrastus do?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">218</span><a id="page_218" name="page_218"></a> +<span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Do what thou wilt, when she is dead; my soldiers<br /> +With numbers will o'erpower thee. Is't thy wish<br /> +Eurydice should fall before thee?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Traitor, no;<br /> +Better that thou, and I, and all mankind,<br /> +Should be no more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Then cast thy sword away,<br /> +And yield thee to my mercy, or I strike.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Hold thy raised arm; give me a moment's pause.<br /> +My father, when he blest me, gave me this:<br /> +My son, said he, let this be thy last refuge;<br /> +If thou forego'st it, misery attends thee.—<br /> +Yet love now charms it from me; which in all<br /> +The hazards of my life I never lost.<br /> +'Tis thine, my faithful sword; my only trust;<br /> +Though my heart tells me that the gift is fatal.<span class="sdr">[Gives it.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Fatal! yes, foolish love-sick prince, it shall:<br /> +Thy arrogance, thy scorn, my wound's remembrance.<br /> +Turn all at once the fatal point upon thee.—<br /> +Pyracmon to the palace; dispatch<br /> +The king; hang Hæmon up, for he is loyal,<br /> +And will oppose me.—Come, sir, are you ready?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Yes, villain, for whatever thou canst dare.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Hold, Creon, or through me, through me you wound.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Off, madam, or we perish both; behold<br /> +I'm not unarmed, my poniard's in my hand;<br /> +Therefore, away.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> I'll guard your life with mine.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Die both, then; there is now no time for dallying. +<span class="sdr">[Kills <span class="cnm">Eurydice.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Eur.</span> Ah, prince, farewell! farewell, my dear Adrastus! +<span class="sdr">[Dies.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">219</span><a id="page_219" name="page_219"></a> +<span class="cnm">Adr.</span> Unheard-of monster! eldest-born of hell!<br /> +Down, to thy primitive flame.<span class="sdr">[Stabs <span class="cnm">Creon.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> Help, soldiers, help;<br /> +Revenge me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> More; yet more; a thousand wounds!<br /> +I'll stamp thee still, thus, to the gaping furies. +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Adrastus</span> falls, killed by the soldiers.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Hæmon,</span> Guards, with <span class="cnm">Alcander</span> and <span class="cnm">Pyracmon</span> +bound; the Assassins are driven off.</p> + +<p class="dlg">O Hæmon, I am slain; nor need I name<br /> +The inhuman author of all villainies;<br /> +There he lies gasping.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cre.</span> If I must plunge in flames,<br /> +Burn first my arm; base instrument, unfit<br /> +To act the dictates of my daring mind;<br /> +Burn, burn for ever, O weak substitute<br /> +Of that, the god, ambition.<span class="sdr">[Dies.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Adr.</span> She's gone;—O deadly marksman, in the heart!<br /> +Yet in the pangs of death she grasps my hand;<br /> +Her lips too tremble, as if she would speak<br /> +Her last farewell.—O, Œdipus, thy fall<br /> +Is great; and nobly now thou goest attended!<br /> +They talk of heroes, and celestial beauties,<br /> +And wondrous pleasures in the other world;<br /> +Let me but find her there, I ask no more.<span class="sdr">[Dies.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter a Captain to <span class="cnm">Hæmon;</span> with <span class="cnm">Teresias</span> and +<span class="cnm">Manto.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cap.</span> O, sir, the queen Jocasta, swift and wild,<br /> +As a robbed tygress bounding o'er the woods,<br /> +Has acted murders that amaze mankind;<br /> +In twisted gold I saw her daughters hang<br /> +On the bed-royal, and her little sons<br /> +Stabbed through the breasts upon the bloody pillows.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> Relentless heavens! is then the fate of Laius<br /> +Never to be atoned? How sacred ought<br /> +<span class="pgnm">220</span><a id="page_220" name="page_220"></a> +Kings' lives be held, when but the death of one<br /> +Demands an empire's blood for expiation!<br /> +But see! the furious mad Jocasta's here.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Scene draws, and discovers <span class="cnm">Jocasta</span> held by her women +and stabbed in many places of her Bosom, her +Hair dishevelled, her Children slain upon the Bed.</p> + +<p class="dlg">Was ever yet a sight of so much horror<br /> +And pity brought to view!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> Ah, cruel women!<br /> +Will you not let me take my last farewell<br /> +Of those dear babes? O let me run, and seal<br /> +My melting soul upon their bubbling wounds!<br /> +I'll print upon their coral mouths such kisses,<br /> +As shall recal their wandering spirits home.<br /> +Let me go, let me go, or I will tear you piece-meal.<br /> +Help, Hæmon, help;<br /> +Help, Œdipus; help, Gods; Jocasta dies.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Œdipus</span> above.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> I've found a window, and I thank the gods<br /> +'Tis quite unbarred; sure, by the distant noise,<br /> +The height will fit my fatal purpose well.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Joc.</span> What hoa, my Œdipus! see where he stands!<br /> +His groping ghost is lodged upon a tower,<br /> +Nor can it find the road. Mount, mount, my soul;<br /> +I'll wrap thy shivering spirit in lambent flames; and so we'll sail.—<br /> +But see! we're landed on the happy coast;<br /> +And all the golden strands are covered o'er<br /> +With glorious gods, that come to try our cause.<br /> +Jove, Jove, whose majesty now sinks me down,<br /> +He, who himself burns in unlawful fires,<br /> +Shall judge, and shall acquit us. O, 'tis done;<br /> +'Tis fixt by fate, upon record divine;<br /> +And Œdipus shall now be ever mine.<span class="sdr">[Dies.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">221</span><a id="page_221" name="page_221"></a> +<span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Speak, Hæmon; what has fate been doing there?<br /> +What dreadful deed has mad Jocasta done?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> The queen herself, and all your wretched offspring,<br /> +Are by her fury slain.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> By all my woes,<br /> +She has outdone me in revenge and murder,<br /> +And I should envy her the sad applause:<br /> +But oh, my children! oh, what have they done?<br /> +This was not like the mercy of the heavens,<br /> +To set her madness on such cruelty:<br /> +This stirs me more than all my sufferings,<br /> +And with my last breath I must call you tyrants.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> What mean you, sir?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Œdip.</span> Jocasta! lo, I come.<br /> +O Laius, Labdacus, and all you spirits<br /> +Of the Cadmean race, prepare to meet me,<br /> +All weeping ranged along the gloomy shore;<br /> +Extend your arms to embrace me, for I come.<br /> +May all the gods, too, from their battlements,<br /> +Behold and wonder at a mortal's daring;<br /> +And, when I knock the goal of dreadful death,<br /> +Shout and applaud me with a clap of thunder.<br /> +Once more, thus winged by horrid fate, I come,<br /> +Swift as a falling meteor; lo, I fly,<br /> +And thus go downwards to the darker sky. +<span class="sdr">[Thunder. He flings himself from the Window: +The Thebans gather about his Body.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hæm.</span> O prophet, Œdipus is now no more!<br /> +O cursed effect of the most deep despair!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tir.</span> Cease your complaints, and bear his body hence;<br /> +The dreadful sight will daunt the drooping Thebans,<br /> +Whom heaven decrees to raise with peace and glory.<br /> +Yet, by these terrible examples warned,<br /> +The sacred Fury thus alarms the world:—<br /> +Let none, though ne'er so virtuous, great, and high,<br /> +Be judged entirely blest before they die.<span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span></p> + +<div class="ftnt"> +<p>Footnotes:</p> +<ol> +<li><a id="OEdip_4-1" name="OEdip_4-1"></a>Imitated from the commencement of the plague in the first +book of the <i>Iliad</i>.</li> + +<li><a id="OEdip_4-2" name="OEdip_4-2"></a>The story of the Sphinx is generally known: She was a monster, +who delighted in putting a riddle to the Thebans, and slaying each +poor dull Bœotian, who could not interpret it. Œdipus guessed +the enigma, on which the monster destroyed herself for shame. +Thus he attained the throne of Thebes, and the bed of Jocasta.</li> + +<li><a id="OEdip_4-3" name="OEdip_4-3"></a>To <i>dare a lark</i>, is to fly a hawk, or present some other object +of fear, to engage the bird's attention, and prevent it from taking +wing, while the fowler draws his net:<br /><br /> +<div class="poem"> +<p>Farewell, nobility; let his grace go forward,</p> +<p>And dare us with his cap, like larks.</p> +<p class="citation"><i>Henry VIII.</i> Act III. Scene II.</p> +</div> +</li> + +<li><a id="OEdip_4-4" name="OEdip_4-4"></a>The carelessness of Œdipus about the fate of his predecessor +is very unnatural; but to such expedients dramatists are often +reduced, to communicate to their audience what must have been +known to the persons of the drama.</li> + +<li><a id="OEdip_4-5" name="OEdip_4-5"></a><i>Start</i> is here, and in p. 136, used for <i>started</i>, being borrowed +from <i>sterte</i>, the old perfect of the verb.</li> + +<li><a id="OEdip_4-6" name="OEdip_4-6"></a>It is a common idea, that falling stars, as they are called, are +converted into a sort of jelly. "Among the rest, I had often the +opportunity to see the seeming shooting of the stars from place to +place, and sometimes they appeared as if falling to the ground, +where I once or twice found a white jelly-like matter among the +grass, which I imagined to be distilled from them; and hence +foolishly conjectured, that the stars themselves must certainly +consist of a like substance."</li> + +<li><a id="OEdip_4-7" name="OEdip_4-7"></a>Serpens, serpentem vorans, fit draco. Peccata, peccatis superaddita, +monstra fiunt. <i>Hieroglyphica animalium, per Archibaldum +Simsonum Dalkethensis Ecclesiæ pastorem, p. 95.</i></li> + +<li><a id="OEdip_4-8" name="OEdip_4-8"></a>The idea of this sacred grove seems to be taken from that of +Colonus near Athens, dedicated to the Eumenides, which gives +name to Sophocles's second tragedy. Seneca describes the scene +of the incantation in the following lines:<br /><br /> + +<div class="poem pi"> +<p class="i1">Est procul ab urbe lucus illicibus niger</p> +<p>Dircæa circa vallis irriguæ loca.</p> +<p>Cupressus altis exerens silvis caput</p> +<p>Virente semper alligat trunco nemus;</p> +<p>Curvosque tendit quercus et putres situ</p> +<p>Annosa ramos: hujus abrupit latus</p> +<p>Edax vetustas: illa jam fessa cadens</p> +<p>Radice, fulta pendet aliena trabe.</p> +<p>Amara baccas laurus; et tiliæ leves</p> +<p>Et Paphia myrtus; et per immensum mare</p> +<p>Motura remos alnus; et Phœbo obvia</p> +<p>Enode Zephyris pinus opponens latus.</p> +<p>Medio stat ingens arbor, atque umbra gravi</p> +<p>Silvas minores urget; et magno ambitu</p> +<p>Diffusa ramos, una defendit nemus.</p> +<p>Tristis sub illa, lucis et Phœbi inscius</p> +<p>Restagnat humor, frigore æterno rigens.</p> +<p>Limosa pigrum circuit fontem palus.</p> +<p class="citation"><i>Actus Tertius. Scena prima.</i></p> +</div> + +<p>This diffuse account of the different kinds of forest trees, which +composed the enchanted grove, is very inartificially put into +the mouth of Creon, who, notwithstanding the horrible message +which he has to deliver to Œdipus from the ghost, finds time to +solace the king with this long description of a place, which he +doubtless knew as well as Creon himself. Dryden, on the contrary, +has, with great address, rendered the description necessary, +by the violence committed within the sacred precinct, and +turned it, not upon minute and rhetorical detail, but upon the general +awful properties of this consecrated ground. Lucan's fine description +of the Massyllian forest, and that of the enchanted grove +in Tasso, have been both consulted by our author.</p></li> + +<li><a id="OEdip_4-9" name="OEdip_4-9"></a>The quarrel betwixt Œdipus and the prophet, who announces +his guilt, is imitated from a similar scene in the Œdipus Tyrannus.</li> + +<li><a id="OEdip_4-10" name="OEdip_4-10"></a>Borrowed from Shakespeare;<br /><br /> +<div class="poem"> +<p>And lean-looked prophets whisper fearful change.</p> +<p class="citation"><i>Richard II.</i></p> +</div> +</li> +</ol> +</div> + +<div><span class="pgnm">222</span><a id="page_222" name="page_222"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">EPILOGUE.</h3> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>What Sophocles could undertake alone,</p> +<p>Our poets found a work for more than one;</p> +<p>And therefore two lay tugging at the piece,</p> +<p>With all their force, to draw the ponderous mass from Greece;</p> +<p>A weight that bent even Seneca's strong muse,</p> +<p>And which Corneille's shoulders did refuse.</p> +<p>So hard it is the Athenian harp to string!</p> +<p>So much two consuls yield to one just king.</p> +<p>Terror and pity this whole poem sway;</p> +<p>The mightiest machines that can mount a play.</p> +<p>How heavy will those vulgar souls be found,</p> +<p>Whom two such engines cannot move from ground!</p> +<p>When Greece and Rome have smiled upon this birth,</p> +<p>You can but damn for one poor spot of earth;</p> +<p>And when your children find your judgment such,</p> +<p>They'll scorn their sires, and wish themselves born Dutch;</p> +<p>Each haughty poet will infer with ease,</p> +<p>How much his wit must under-write to please.</p> +<p>As some strong churl would, brandishing, advance</p> +<p>The monumental sword that conquered France;</p> +<p>So you, by judging this, your judgment teach,</p> +<p>Thus far you like, that is, thus far you reach.</p> +<p>Since then the vote of full two thousand years</p> +<p>Has crowned this plot, and all the dead are theirs,</p> +<p>Think it a debt you pay, not alms you give,</p> +<p>And, in your own defence, let this play live.</p> +<p>Think them not vain, when Sophocles is shown,</p> +<p>To praise his worth they humbly doubt their own.</p> +<p>Yet as weak states each other's power assure,</p> +<p>Weak poets by conjunction are secure.</p> +<p>Their treat is what your palates relish most,</p> +<p>Charm! song! and show! a murder and a ghost!</p> +<p>We know not what you can desire or hope,</p> +<p>To please you more, but burning of a Pope.<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_5-1">[1]</a></p> +</div> + +<div class="ftnt"> +<p>Footnote:</p> +<ol> +<li><a id="OEdip_5-1" name="OEdip_5-1"></a><p>The burning a Pope in effigy, was a ceremony performed upon the +anniversary of queen Elizabeth's coronation. When parties ran high betwixt +the courtiers and opposition, in the latter part of Charles the II. reign, +these anti-papal solemnities were conducted by the latter, with great +state and expence, and employed as engines to excite the popular resentment +against the duke of York, and his religion. The following curious +<span class="pgnm">223</span><a id="page_223" name="page_223"></a> +Footnote: description of one of these tumultuary processions, in 1679, was extracted +by Ralph, from a very scarce pamphlet; it is the ceremony referred to in +the epilogue; and it shall be given at length, as the subject is frequently +alluded to by Dryden.<br /><br /></p> + +<table summary="Burning of a pope"> +<caption><i>The Solemn Mock Procession of the</i> <b>POPE,</b> <i>Cardinals, Friars, &c.<br /> +Through the</i> CITY OF LONDON <i>November 17.<sup>th</sup> 1679.</i></caption> +<tr><td><a href="images/pic8lg.jpg" target="_blank" title="Click for larger version"><!-- +--><img src="images/pic8sm.jpg" height="450" width="800" alt="The Solemn Mock Procession of the POPE, Cardinals, Friars, &c." /></a></td></tr> +</table> + +<p>"On the said 17th of November, 1679, the bells, generally, about the +town, began to ring at three o'clock in the morning. At the approach of +the evening, (all things being in readiness) the solemn procession began, +setting forth from Moregate, and so passed, first to Aldgate, and thence +through Leadenhall-street, by the Royal Exchange, through Cheapside, +and so to Temple-bar in the ensuing order, viz.</p> + +<ol> +<li>"Came six whifflers, to clear the way, in pioneer caps, and red +waistcoats.</li> + +<li>"A bellman ringing, and with a loud (but doleful) voice, crying out +all the way, remember Justice Godfrey.</li> + +<li>"A dead body, representing justice Godfrey, in a decent black habit, +carried before a jesuit, in black, on horse-back, in like manner as he +was carried by the assassins to Primrose Hill.</li> + +<li>"Next after Sir Edmonbury, so mounted, came a priest in a surplice, +with a cope embroidered with dead bones, skeletons, skulls, and +the like, giving pardons very plentifully to all those who should murder +protestants; and proclaiming it meritorious.</li> + +<li>"Then a priest in black alone, with a great silver cross.</li> + +<li>"Four carmelites, in white and black habits.</li> + +<li>"Four grey-friars, in the proper habits of their order.</li> + +<li>"Six jesuits, with bloody daggers.</li> + +<li>"A concert of wind music.</li> + +<li>"Four bishops, in purple, and lawn sleeves, with a golden crosier +on their breast, and crosier-staves in their hands.</li> + +<li>"Four other bishops, in <i>Pontificalibus</i>, with surplices, and rich +embroidered copes, and golden mitres on their heads.</li> + +<li>"Six cardinals, in scarlet robes and caps.</li> + +<li>"The Pope's doctor, <i>i.e.</i> Wakeman,<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_5-1a">[a]</a> with jesuits-powder in one +hand, and an urinal in the other.</li> + +<li>"Two priests in surplices, with two golden crosses.</li> +</ol> + +<p>"Lastly, The Pope, in a lofty, glorious pageant, representing a chair of +state, covered with scarlet, richly embroidered and fringed, and bedecked +with golden balls and crosses: At his feet a cushion of state, and two +boys in surplices with white silk banners, and bloody crucifixes and daggers +with an incense pot before them, censing his holiness, who was arrayed +in a splendid scarlet gown, lined through with ermin, and richly +daubed with gold and silver lace; on his head a triple crown of gold, +and a glorious collar of gold and precious stones, St Peter's keys, a number +of beads, agnus deis, and other catholic trumpery. At his back, his +holiness's privy counsellor, the degraded Seraphim, (<i>anglice</i> the devil,) +frequently caressing, hugging, and whispering him, and oft times instructing +him aloud to destroy his majesty, to forge a protestant plot, and to fire +the city again, to which purpose he held an infernal torch in his hand.</p> + +<p><span class="pgnm">224</span><a id="page_224" name="page_224"></a> +"The whole procession was attended with 150 flambeaux and lights, by +order; but so many more came in volunteers, as made up some thousands.</p> + +<p>"Never were the balconies, windows, and houses more numerously +lined, or the streets closer throng'd with multitudes of people, all expressing +their abhorrence of Popery, with continual shouts and exclamations; +so that 'tis modestly computed, that, in the whole progress, there +could not be fewer than two hundred thousand spectators.</p> + +<p>"Thus with a slow, and solemn state, they proceeded to Temple Bar; +where with innumerable swarms, the houses seemed to be converted +into heaps of men, and women, and children, for whose diversion there +were provided great variety of excellent fireworks.</p> + +<p>"Temple Bar being, since its rebuilding, adorned with four stately +statues, viz. those of Queen Elizabeth and King James, on the inward, +or eastern side, fronting the city; and those of King Charles the I. of +blessed memory, and our present gracious sovereign, (whom God, in +mercy to these nations, long preserve!) on the outside, facing towards +Westminster; and the statue of Queen Elizabeth in regard to the day, +having on a crown of gilded laurel, and in her hand a golden shield, +with this motto inscribed: <i>The Protestant Religion, and Magna Charta</i>, +and flambeaux placed before it. The Pope being brought up near thereunto, +the following song, alluding to the posture of those statues, was +sung in parts, between one representing the English Cardinal (<i>Howard</i>)<a class="ftnt" href="#OEdip_5-1b">[b]</a> +and others acting the people:</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<h4>CARDINAL NORFOLK.</h4> + +<div class="stanza"> +<p>From York to London town we come,</p> +<p class="i1">To talk of Popish ire,</p> +<p>To reconcile you all to Rome,</p> +<p class="i1">And prevent Smithfield fire.</p> +</div> + +<h4>PLEBEIANS.</h4> + +<div class="stanza"> +<p>Cease, cease, thou Norfolk Cardinal,</p> +<p class="i1">See yonder stands Queen Bess;</p> +<p>Who sav'd our souls from Popish thrall:</p> +<p class="i1">O Queen Bess, Queen Bess, Queen Bess!</p> +</div> +<div class="stanza"> +<p>Your Popish plot, and Smithfield threat,</p> +<p class="i1">We do not fear at all;</p> +<p>For lo! beneath Queen Bess's feet,</p> +<p class="i1">You fall, you fall, you fall.</p> +</div> +<div class="stanza"> +<p>"'Tis true, our King's on t'other side,</p> +<p class="i1">A looking tow'rds Whitehall:</p> +<p>But could we bring him round about;</p> +<p class="i1">He'd counterplot you all.</p> +</div> +<div class="stanza"> +<span class="pgnm">225</span><a id="page_225" name="page_225"></a> +<p>"Then down with James, and set up Charles,</p> +<p class="i1">On good Queen Bess's side;</p> +<p>That all true Commons, Lords, and Earls,</p> +<p class="i1">May wish him a fruitfull bride."</p> +</div> +<div class="stanza"> +<p>Now God preserve great Charles our King,</p> +<p class="i1">And eke all honest men;</p> +<p>And traitors all to justice bring:</p> +<p class="i1">Amen, Amen, Amen.</p> +</div> +</div> + +<p>"Then having entertained the thronging spectators for some time, +with the ingenious fireworks, a vast bonfire being prepared, just over +against the inner temple gate, his holiness, after some compliments and +reluctancies, was decently toppled from all his grandeur, into the impartial +flames; the crafty devil leaving his infallibilityship in the lurch, +and laughing as heartily at his deserved ignominious end, as subtle jesuits +do at the ruin of bigotted Lay Catholics, whom themselves have +drawn in; or, as credulous Coleman's abettors did, when, with pretences +of a reprieve at last gasp, they had made him vomit up his soul with +a lye, and sealed his dangerous chops with a halter. This justice was attended +with a prodigious shout, that might be heard far beyond Somerset-house; +and 'twas believed the echo, by continued reverberations, before +it ceased, reached <i>Scotland</i>, (the Duke was then there;) France, +and even Rome, itself, damping them all with a dreadfull astonishment."</p> + +<p>From a very rare broadside, in the collection made by Narcissus +Luttrell.</p> + +<div class="ftnt"> +<p>Footnotes:</p> +<ol style="list-style-type: lower-alpha;"> +<li><a id="OEdip_5-1a" name="OEdip_5-1a"></a>Sir George Wakeman was physician to the queen, and a catholic. He +was tried for the memorable Popish plot and acquitted, the credit of the +witnesses being now blasted, by the dying declarations of those who suffered.</li> + +<li><a id="OEdip_5-1b" name="OEdip_5-1b"></a>Philip, the 3d son of Henry Earl of Arundel, and brother to the Duke +of Norfolk, created a Cardinal in 1675. He was a second cousin of Lady +Elizabeth Howard, afterwards the wife of our poet.</li> +</ol></div> +</li> +</ol></div> + +<div><span class="pgnm">226</span><a id="page_226" name="page_226"></a></div> +<div>[Blank Page]</div> + +<hr class="large" /> +<div><span class="pgnm">227</span><a id="page_227" name="page_227"></a></div> + +<h2 class="chap">TROILUS AND CRESSIDA:</h2> +<p class="ctr">OR,</p> +<h3 class="nomarg">TRUTH FOUND TOO LATE.</h3> + +<h3>A<br /> +TRAGEDY.</h3> + +<div class="ctr"> +<table class="ctr" summary="Epigram"> +<tr><td><p><i>Rectius Iliacum carmen deducis in actus,<br /> +Quam si proferres ignota indictaque primus.</i></p> +<p class="citation smcap">Hor.</p> +</td></tr> +</table></div> + +<div><span class="pgnm">228</span><a id="page_228" name="page_228"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">TROILUS AND CRESSIDA.</h3> + +<p>The story of Troilus and Cressida was one of the more modern +fables, engrafted, during the dark ages, on "the tale of Troy divine." +Chaucer, who made it the subject of a long and somewhat dull +poem, professes to have derived his facts from an author of the +middle ages, called Lollius, to whom he often refers, and who he +states to have written in Latin. Tyrwhitt disputes the existence +of this personage, and supposes Chaucer's original to have been the +<i>Philostrato dell' amorose fatiche de Troilo,</i> a work of Boccacio. +But Chaucer was never reluctant in acknowledging obligations to +his contemporaries, when such really existed; and Mr Tyrwhitt's +opinion seems to be successfully combated by Mr Godwin, in his +"Life of Chaucer." The subject, whencesoever derived, was +deemed by Shakespeare worthy of the stage; and his tragedy, +of Troilus and Cressida, contains so many scenes of distinguished +excellence, that it could have been wished our author had mentioned +it with more veneration. In truth, even the partiality of an +editor must admit, that on this occasion, the modern improvements +of Dryden shew to very little advantage beside the venerable structure +to which they have been attached. The arrangement of the +plot is, indeed, more artificially modelled; but the preceding age, +during which the infidelity of Cressida was proverbially current, +could as little have endured a catastrophe turning upon the discovery +of her innocence, as one which should have exhibited Helen +chaste, or Hector a coward. In Dryden's time, the prejudice +against this unfortunate female was probably forgotten, as her +history had become less popular. There appears, however, something +too nice and fastidious in the critical rule, which exacts that +the hero and heroine of the drama shall be models of virtuous perfection. +In the most interesting of the ancient plays we find this +limitation neglected, with great success; and it would have been +more natural to have brought about the catastrophe on the plan +of Shakespeare and Chaucer, than by the forced mistake in which +Dryden's lovers are involved, and the stale expedient of Cressida's +killing herself, to evince her innocence. For the superior order, +and regard to the unity of place, with which Dryden has new-modelled +the scenes and entries, he must be allowed the full praise +which he claims in the preface.</p> + +<p><span class="pgnm">229</span><a id="page_229" name="page_229"></a> +In the dialogue, considered as distinct from the plot, Dryden +appears not to have availed himself fully of the treasures of his +predecessor. He has pitilessly retrenched the whole scene, in +the 3d act, between Ulysses and Achilles, full of the purest and +most admirable moral precept, expressed in the most poetical and +dignified language<a class="ftnt" href="#Troil_1-1">[1]</a>. Probably this omission arose from Dryden's +desire to simplify the plot, by leaving out the intrigues of the Grecian +chiefs, and limiting the interest to the amours of Troilus and +<span class="pgnm">230</span><a id="page_230" name="page_230"></a> +Cressida. But he could not be insensible to the merit of this +scene, though he has supplied it by one far inferior, in which +Ulysses is introduced, using gross flattery to the buffoon Thersites. +In the latter part of the play, Dryden has successfully exerted +his own inventive powers. The quarrelling scene between +Hector and Troilus is very impressive, and no bad imitation +of that betwixt Brutus and Cassius, with which Dryden seems +to have been so much charmed, and which he has repeatedly +striven to emulate. The parting of Hector and Andromache contains +some affecting passages, some of which may be traced back +to Homer; although the pathos, upon the whole, is far inferior to +that of the noted scene in the Iliad, and destitute of the noble simplicity +of the Grecian bard.</p> + +<p>Mr Godwin has justly remarked, that the delicacy of Chaucer's +ancient tale has suffered even in the hands of Shakespeare; but in +those of Dryden it has undergone a far deeper deterioration. +Whatever is coarse and naked in Shakespeare, has been dilated into +ribaldry by the poet laureat of Charles the second; and the character +of Pandarus, in particular, is so grossly heightened, as to +disgrace even the obliging class to whom that unfortunate procurer +has bequeathed his name. So far as this play is to be considered +as an alteration of Shakespeare, I fear it must be allowed, that our +author has suppressed some of his finest poetry, and exaggerated +some of his worst faults.</p> + +<p>Troilus and Cressida was published in 1679.</p> + +<div class="ftnt"> +<p>Footnote:</p> +<ol> +<li><a id="Troil_1-1" name="Troil_1-1"></a>I need only recall to the reader's remembrance the following beautiful +passage, inculcating the unabating energy necessary to maintain, in the race +of life, the ground which has been already gained.<br /><br /> + +<div class="poem"> +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Time hath, my lord, a wallet at his back,<br /> +Wherein he puts alms for oblivion,<br /> +A great-siz'd monster of ingratitudes:<br /> +These scraps are good deeds past; which are devour'd<br /> +As fast as they are made, forgot as soon<br /> +As done: Perséverance, dear my lord,<br /> +Keeps honour bright: To have done, is to hang<br /> +Quite out of fashion, like a rusty mail<br /> +In monumental mockery. Take the instant way;<br /> +For honour travels in a strait so narrow,<br /> +Where one but goes abreast: keep then the path;<br /> +For emulation hath a thousand sons,<br /> +That one by one pursue: If you give way,<br /> +Or hedge aside from the direct forthright,<br /> +Like to an enter'd tide, they all rush by,<br /> +And leave you hindmost.—<br /> +Or, like a gallant horse fallen in first rank,<br /> +Lie there for pavement to the abject rear,<br /> +O'er run and trampled on: Then what they do in present,<br /> +Though less than yours in past, must o'ertop yours:<br /> +For time is like a fashionable host,<br /> +That slightly shakes his parting guest by the hand;<br /> +And with his arms out stretch'd, as he would fly,<br /> +Grasps-in the comer: Welcome ever smiles,<br /> +And Farewel goes out sighing. O, let not virtue seek<br /> +Remuneration for the thing it was;<br /> +For beauty, wit,<br /> +High birth, vigour of bone, desert in service,<br /> +Love, friendship, charity, are subjects all<br /> +To envious and calumniating time.<br /> +One touch of nature makes the whole world kin,—<br /> +That all, with one consent, praise new-born gawds,<br /> +Though they are made and moulded of things past;<br /> +And give to dust, that is a little gilt,<br /> +More laud than gilt o'er-dusted.<br /> +The present eye praises the present object:<br /> +Then marvel not, thou great and complete man,<br /> +That all the Greeks begin to worship Ajax;<br /> +Since things in motion sooner catch the eye,<br /> +Than what not stirs. The cry went once on thee,<br /> +And still it might, and yet it may again,<br /> +If thou would'st not entomb thyself alive,<br /> +And case thy reputation in thy tent;<br /> +Whose glorious deeds, but in these fields of late,<br /> +Made emulous missions 'mongst the gods themselves,<br /> +And drave great Mars to faction.</p> +</div> +</li> +</ol> +</div> + +<div><span class="pgnm">231</span><a id="page_231" name="page_231"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">TO +THE RIGHT HONOURABLE +ROBERT,<br /> +EARL OF SUNDERLAND<a class="ftnt" href="#Troil_2-1">[1]</a>,<br /> +PRINCIPAL SECRETARY OF STATE,<br /> +ONE OF HIS MAJESTY'S +MOST HONOURABLE PRIVY-COUNCIL, &C.</h3> + +<p class="noind smcap">My Lord,</p> + +<p>Since I cannot promise you much of poetry in my +play, it is but reasonable that I should secure you +from any part of it in my dedication. And indeed +I cannot better distinguish the exactness of your +taste from that of other men, than by the plainness +and sincerity of my address. I must keep my +hyperboles in reserve for men of other understandings. +<span class="pgnm">232</span><a id="page_232" name="page_232"></a> +An hungry appetite after praise, and a strong +digestion of it, will bear the grossness of that diet; +but one of so critical a judgment as your lordship, +who can set the bounds of just and proper in every +subject, would give me small encouragement for so +bold an undertaking. I more than suspect, my +lord, that you would not do common justice to +yourself; and, therefore, were I to give that character +of you, which I think you truly merit, I +would make my appeal from your lordship to the +reader, and would justify myself from flattery by +the public voice, whatever protestation you might +enter to the contrary. But I find I am to take +other measures with your lordship; I am to stand +upon my guard with you, and to approach you as +warily as Horace did Augustus:</p> + +<div class="poem pi"> +<p>Cui malè si palpere, recalcitrat undique tutus.</p> +</div> + +<p class="noind">An ill-timed, or an extravagant commendation, +would not pass upon you; but you would keep off +such a dedicator at arms-end, and send him back +with his encomiums to this lord, or that lady, who +stood in need of such trifling merchandise. You +see, my lord, what an awe you have upon me, when +I dare not offer you that incense which would be +acceptable to other patrons; but am forced to +curb myself from ascribing to you those honours, +which even an enemy could not deny you. Yet I +must confess, I never practised that virtue of moderation +(which is properly your character) with so +much reluctancy as now: for it hinders me from +being true to my own knowledge, in not witnessing +your worth, and deprives me of the only means +which I had left, to shew the world that true honour +and uninterested respect which I have always +paid you. I would say somewhat, if it were possible +which might distinguish that veneration I have +<span class="pgnm">233</span><a id="page_233" name="page_233"></a> +for you, from the flatteries of those who adore your +fortune. But the eminence of your condition, in +this particular, is my unhappiness; for it renders +whatever I would say suspected. Professions of +service, submissions, and attendance, are the practice +of all men to the great; and commonly they, +who have the least sincerity, perform them best; as +they, who are least engaged in love, have their +tongues the freest to counterfeit a passion. For my +own part, I never could shake off the rustic bashfulness +which hangs upon my nature; but, valuing +myself at as little as I am worth, have been afraid +to render even the common duties of respect to +those who are in power. The ceremonious visits, +which are generally paid on such occasions, are not +my talent. They may be real even in courtiers, but +they appear with such a face of interest, that a modest +man would think himself in danger of having +his sincerity mistaken for his design. My congratulations +keep their distance, and pass no farther +than my heart. There it is that I have all the joy +imaginable, when I see true worth rewarded, and +virtue uppermost in the world.</p> + +<p>If, therefore, there were one to whom I had the +honour to be known; and to know him so perfectly, +that I could say, without flattery, he had all the +depth of understanding that was requisite in an able +statesman, and all that honesty which commonly is +wanting; that he was brave without vanity, and +knowing without positiveness; that he was loyal +to his prince, and a lover of his country; that his +principles were full of moderation, and all his counsels +such as tended to heal, and not to widen, the +breaches of the nation: that in all his conversation +there appeared a native candour, and a desire of doing +good in all his actions: if such an one, whom I +have described, were at the helm; if he had risen +<span class="pgnm">234</span><a id="page_234" name="page_234"></a> +by his merits, and were chosen out in the necessity +and pressures of affairs, to remedy our confusions +by the seasonableness of his advice, and to put a stop +to our ruin, when we were just rolling downward +to the precipice; I should then congratulate the age +in which I live, for the common safety; I should +not despair of the republic, though Hannibal were +at the gates; I should send up my vows for the +success of such an action, as Virgil did, on the like +occasion, for his patron, when he was raising up his +country from the desolations of a civil war:</p> + +<div class="poem pi"> +<p>Hunc saltem everso juvenem succurrere seclo</p> +<p>Ne, superi, prohibete.</p> +</div> + +<p>I know not whither I am running, in this extacy +which is now upon me: I am almost ready to re-assume +the ancient rights of poetry; to point out, and +prophecy the man, who was born for no less an undertaking, +and whom posterity shall bless for its +accomplishment. Methinks, I am already taking +fire from such a character, and making room for him, +under a borrowed name, amongst the heroes of an +epic poem. Neither could mine, or some more happy +genius, want encouragement under such a patron:</p> + +<div class="poem pi"> +<p>Pollio amat nostram, quamvis sit rustica, musam.</p> +</div> + +<p>But these are considerations afar off, my lord: +the former part of the prophecy must be first accomplished; +the quiet of the nation must be secured; +and a mutual trust, betwixt prince and people, be +renewed; and then this great and good man will +have leisure for the ornaments of peace; and make +our language as much indebted to his care, as the +French is to the memory of their famous Richelieu<a class="ftnt" href="#Troil_2-2">[2]</a>. +<span class="pgnm">235</span><a id="page_235" name="page_235"></a> +You know, my lord, how low he laid the foundations +of so great a work; that he began it with a +grammar and a dictionary; without which all those +remarks and observations, which have since been +made, had been performed to as little purpose, as it +would be to consider the furniture of the rooms, +before the contrivance of the house. Propriety +must first be stated, ere any measures of elegance +can be taken. Neither is one Vaugelas sufficient +for such a work<a class="ftnt" href="#Troil_2-3">[3]</a>. It was the employment of the +whole academy for many years; for the perfect +knowledge of a tongue was never attained by any +single person. The court, the college, and the +town, must be joined in it. And as our English +is a composition of the dead and living tongues, +there is required a perfect knowledge, not only of the +Greek and Latin, but of the old German, the French, +and the Italian; and, to help all these, a conversation +with those authors of our own, who have +written with the fewest faults in prose and verse. +But how barbarously we yet write and speak, your +lordship knows, and I am sufficiently sensible in my +own English. For I am often put to a stand, in +considering whether what I write be the idiom of +the tongue, or false grammar, and nonsense couched +beneath that specious name of Anglicism; and +have no other way to clear my doubts, but by +translating my English into Latin, and thereby +trying what sense the words will bear in a more +stable language. I am desirous, if it were possible, +that we might all write with the same certainty of +words, and purity of phrase, to which the Italians +first arrived, and after them the French; at least +that we might advance so far, as our tongue is capable +of such a standard. It would mortify an +<span class="pgnm">236</span><a id="page_236" name="page_236"></a> +Englishman to consider, that from the time of +Boccace and of Petrarch, the Italian has varied +very little; and that the English of Chaucer, their +contemporary, is not to be understood without the +help of an old dictionary. But their Goth and +Vandal had the fortune to be grafted on a Roman +stock; ours has the disadvantage to be founded on +the Dutch<a class="ftnt" href="#Troil_2-4">[4]</a>. We are full of monosyllables, and those +clogged with consonants, and our pronunciation is +effeminate; all which are enemies to a sounding +language. It is true, that to supply our poverty, +we have trafficked with our neighbour nations; by +which means we abound as much in words, as Amsterdam +does in religions; but to order them, and +make them useful after their admission, is the difficulty. +A greater progress has been made in this, +since his majesty's return, than, perhaps, since the +conquest to his time. But the better part of the +work remains unfinished; and that which has been +done already, since it has only been in the practice +of some few writers, must be digested into rules +and method, before it can be profitable to the general. +Will your lordship give me leave to speak +out at last? and to acquaint the world, that from +your encouragement and patronage, we may one +day expect to speak and write a language, worthy +of the English wit, and which foreigners may not +disdain to learn? Your birth, your education, your +natural endowments, the former employments which +you have had abroad, and that which, to the joy of +good men you now exercise at home, seem all to +conspire to this design: the genius of the nation +seems to call you out as it were by name, to polish +and adorn your native language, and to take from +it the reproach of its barbarity. It is upon this +<span class="pgnm">237</span><a id="page_237" name="page_237"></a> +encouragement that I have adventured on the following +critique, which I humbly present you, together +with the play; in which, though I have +not had the leisure, nor indeed the encouragement, +to proceed to the principal subject of it, which is +the words and thoughts that are suitable to tragedy; +yet the whole discourse has a tendency that way, +and is preliminary to it. In what I have already +done, I doubt not but I have contradicted some of +my former opinions, in my loose essays of the like +nature; but of this, I dare affirm, that it is the +fruit of my riper age and experience, and that self-love, +or envy have no part in it. The application +to English authors is my own, and therein, perhaps, +I may have erred unknowingly; but the foundation +of the rules is reason, and the authority of +those living critics who have had the honour to be +known to you abroad, as well as of the ancients, +who are not less of your acquaintance. Whatsoever +it be, I submit it to your lordship's judgment, +from which I never will appeal, unless it be to your +good nature, and your candour. If you can allow +an hour of leisure to the perusal of it, I shall be +fortunate that I could so long entertain you; if +not, I shall at least have the satisfaction to know, +that your time was more usefully employed upon +the public. I am,</p> + +<p class="sig i1 smcap">My Lord,</p> +<p class="sig i2">Your Lordship's most Obedient,</p> +<p class="sig i3">Humble Servant,</p> +<p class="sig i4 smcap">John Dryden.</p> + +<div class="ftnt"> +<p>Footnotes:</p> +<ol> +<li><a id="Troil_2-1" name="Troil_2-1"></a>This was the famous Earl of Sunderland, who, being a Tory +under the reign of Charles, a Papist in that of his successor, and +a Whig in that of William, was a favourite minister of all these +monarchs. He was a man of eminent abilities; and our author +shews a high opinion of his taste, by abstaining from the gross flattery, +which was then the fashionable stile of dedication.</li> + +<li><a id="Troil_2-2" name="Troil_2-2"></a>Alluding to the institution of an academy for fixing the language, +often proposed about this period.</li> + +<li><a id="Troil_2-3" name="Troil_2-3"></a>Author of a treatise on the French language.</li> + +<li><a id="Troil_2-4" name="Troil_2-4"></a>Dutch is here used generally for the High Dutch or German.</li> +</ol></div> + +<div><span class="pgnm">238</span><a id="page_238" name="page_238"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">THE +PREFACE.</h3> + +<p>The poet Æschylus was held in the same veneration +by the Athenians of after-ages, as Shakespeare +is by us; and Longinus has judged, in favour of +him, that he had a noble boldness of expression, +and that his imaginations were lofty and heroic; +but, on the other side, Quintilian affirms, that he +was daring to extravagance. It is certain, that he +affected pompous words, and that his sense was obscured +by figures; notwithstanding these imperfections, +the value of his writings after his decease was +such, that his countrymen ordained an equal reward +to those poets, who could alter his plays to be +acted on the theatre, with those whose productions +were wholly new, and of their own. The case is +not the same in England; though the difficulties +of altering are greater, and our reverence for Shakespeare +much more just, than that of the Grecians +for Æschylus. In the age of that poet, the Greek +tongue was arrived to its full perfection; they had +<span class="pgnm">239</span><a id="page_239" name="page_239"></a> +then amongst them an exact standard of writing +and of speaking: the English language is not capable +of such a certainty; and we are at present so +far from it, that we are wanting in the very foundation +of it, a perfect grammar. Yet it must be +allowed to the present age, that the tongue in general +is so much refined since Shakespeare's time, +that many of his words, and more of his phrases, +are scarce intelligible. And of those which we understand, +some are ungrammatical, others coarse; +and his whole style is so pestered with figurative +expressions, that it is as affected as it is obscure. +It is true, that in his latter plays he had worn off +somewhat of the rust; but the tragedy, which I +have undertaken to correct, was in all probability +one of his first endeavours on the stage.</p> + +<p>The original story was written by one Lollius a +Lombard, in Latin verse, and translated by Chaucer +into English; intended, I suppose, a satire on +the inconstancy of women: I find nothing of it +among the ancients; not so much as the name +Cressida once mentioned. Shakespeare, (as I hinted) +in the apprenticeship of his writing, modelled +it into that play, which is now called by the name +of "Troilus and Cressida," but so lamely is it left +to us, that it is not divided into acts; which fault +I ascribe to the actors who printed it after Shakespeare's +death; and that too so carelessly, that a +more uncorrected copy I never saw. For the play +itself, the author seems to have begun it with some +fire; the characters of Pandarus and Thersites, are +promising enough; but as if he grew weary of his +task, after an entrance or two, he lets them fall: +and the latter part of the tragedy is nothing but a +confusion of drums and trumpets, excursions and +alarms. The chief persons, who give name to the +tragedy, are left alive; Cressida is false, and is not +<span class="pgnm">240</span><a id="page_240" name="page_240"></a> +punished. Yet, after all, because the play was +Shakespeare's, and that there appeared in some +places of it the admirable genius of the author, I +undertook to remove that heap of rubbish under +which many excellent thoughts lay wholly buried. +Accordingly, I new modelled the plot, threw out +many unnecessary persons, improved those characters +which were begun and left unfinished, as Hector, +Troilus, Pandarus, and Thersites, and added that of +Andromache. After this, I made, with no small +trouble, an order and connection of all the scenes; +removing them from the places where they were inartificially +set; and, though it was impossible to +keep them all unbroken, because the scene must be +sometimes in the city and sometimes in the camp, +yet I have so ordered them, that there is a coherence +of them with one another, and a dependence +on the main design; no leaping from Troy to the +Grecian tents, and thence back again, in the same +act, but a due proportion of time allowed for every +motion. I need not say that I have refined his +language, which before was obsolete; but I am willing +to acknowledge, that as I have often drawn his +English nearer to our times, so I have sometimes +conformed my own to his; and consequently, the +language is not altogether so pure as it is significant. +The scenes of Pandarus and Cressida, of +Troilus and Pandarus, of Andromache with Hector +and the Trojans, in the second act, are wholly new; +together with that of Nestor and Ulysses with +Thersites, and that of Thersites with Ajax and +Achilles. I will not weary my reader with the +scenes which are added of Pandarus and the lovers, +in the third, and those of Thersites, which are +wholly altered; but I cannot omit the last scene in +it, which is almost half the act, betwixt Troilus and +Hector. The occasion of raising it was hinted to +<span class="pgnm">241</span><a id="page_241" name="page_241"></a> +me by Mr Betterton; the contrivance and working +of it was my own. They who think to do me an +injury, by saying, that it is an imitation of the +scene betwixt Brutus and Cassius, do me an honour, +by supposing I could imitate the incomparable +Shakespeare; but let me add, that if Shakespeare's +scene, or that faulty copy of it in "Amintor +and Melantius," had never been, yet Euripides +had furnished me with an excellent example in his +"Iphigenia," between Agamemnon and Menelaus; +and from thence, indeed, the last turn of it is borrowed. +The occasion which Shakespeare, Euripides, and +Fletcher, have all taken, is the same,—grounded upon +friendship; and the quarrel of two virtuous men, +raised by natural degrees to the extremity of passion, +is conducted in all three, to the declination +of the same passion, and concludes with a warm +renewing of their friendship. But the particular +ground-work which Shakespeare has taken, is incomparably +the best; because he has not only chosen +two of the greatest heroes of their age, but has +likewise interested the liberty of Rome, and their +own honours, who were the redeemers of it, in this +debate. And if he has made Brutus, who was naturally +a patient man, to fly into excess at first, let +it be remembered in his defence, that, just before, +he has received the news of Portia's death; whom +the poet, on purpose neglecting a little chronology, +supposes to have died before Brutus, only to give +him an occasion of being more easily exasperated. +Add to this, that the injury he had received from +Cassius, had long been brooding in his mind; and +that a melancholy man, upon consideration of an +affront, especially from a friend, would be more eager +in his passion, than he who had given it, though +naturally more choleric. Euripides, whom I have +followed, has raised the quarrel betwixt two brothers, +<span class="pgnm">242</span><a id="page_242" name="page_242"></a> +who were friends. The foundation of the scene +was this: The Grecians were wind-bound at the port +of Aulis, and the oracle had said, that they could not +sail, unless Agamemnon delivered up his daughter +to be sacrificed: he refuses; his brother Menelaus +urges the public safety; the father defends himself +by arguments of natural affection, and hereupon +they quarrel. Agamemnon is at last convinced, +and promises to deliver up Iphigenia, but so passionately +laments his loss, that Menelaus is grieved +to have been the occasion of it, and, by a return of +kindness, offers to intercede for him with the Grecians, +that his daughter might not be sacrificed. +But my friend Mr Rymer has so largely, and with +so much judgment, described this scene, in comparing +it with that of Melantius and Amintor, that +it is superfluous to say more of it; I only named +the heads of it, that any reasonable man might +judge it was from thence I modelled my scene betwixt +Troilus and Hector. I will conclude my reflections +on it, with a passage of Longinus, concerning +Plato's imitation of Homer: "We ought +not to regard a good imitation as a theft, but as a +beautiful idea of him who undertakes to imitate, +by forming himself on the invention and the work +of another man; for he enters into the lists like a +new wrestler, to dispute the prize with the former +champion. This sort of emulation, says Hesiod, is +honourable, <span class="Greek" title="Agathê d' eris esti Brotoisin"> +Αγαθη +δ’ +ερις +εστι +Βροτοισιν</span>—when we combat +for victory with a hero, and are not without +glory even in our overthrow. Those great men, +whom we propose to ourselves as patterns of our +imitation, serve us as a torch, which is lifted up before +us, to enlighten our passage, and often elevate +our thoughts as high as the conception we have of +our author's genius."</p> + +<p>I have been so tedious in three acts, that I shall +<span class="pgnm">243</span><a id="page_243" name="page_243"></a> +contract myself in the two last. The beginning +scenes of the fourth act are either added or changed +wholly by me; the middle of it is Shakespeare altered, +and mingled with my own; three or four of +the last scenes are altogether new. And the whole +fifth act, both the plot and the writing, are my own +additions.</p> + +<p>But having written so much for imitation of what +is excellent, in that part of the preface which related +only to myself, methinks it would neither be +unprofitable nor unpleasant to inquire how far we +ought to imitate our own poets, Shakespeare and +Fletcher, in their tragedies; and this will occasion +another inquiry, how those two writers differ between +themselves: but since neither of these questions +can be solved, unless some measures be first +taken, by which we may be enabled to judge truly +of their writings, I shall endeavour, as briefly as I +can, to discover the grounds and reason of all criticism, +applying them in this place only to Tragedy. +Aristotle with his interpreters, and Horace, and +Longinus, are the authors to whom I owe my lights; +and what part soever of my own plays, or of this, +which no mending could make regular, shall fall +under the condemnation of such judges, it would +be impudence in me to defend. I think it no shame +to retract my errors, and am well pleased to suffer +in the cause, if the art may be improved at my expence: +I therefore proceed to</p> + +<p class="ctr">THE GROUNDS OF CRITICISM IN TRAGEDY.</p> + +<p>Tragedy is thus defined by Aristotle (omitting +what I thought unnecessary in his definition). It +is an imitation of one entire, great, and probable +action; not told, but represented; which, by moving +<span class="pgnm">244</span><a id="page_244" name="page_244"></a> +in us fear and pity, is conducive to the purging +of those two passions in our minds. More largely +thus: Tragedy describes or paints an action, which +action must have all the properties above named. +First, it must be one or single; that is, it must not +be a history of one man's life, suppose of Alexander +the Great, or Julius Cæsar, but one single action +of theirs. This condemns all Shakespeare's historical +plays, which are rather chronicles represented, +than tragedies; and all double action of plays. As, +to avoid a satire upon others, I will make bold with +my own "Marriage A-la-mode," where there are +manifestly two actions, not depending on one another; +but in "Œdipus" there cannot properly be +said to be two actions, because the love of Adrastus +and Eurydice has a necessary dependence on +the principal design into which it is woven. The +natural reason of this rule is plain; for two different +independent actions distract the attention and +concernment of the audience, and consequently +destroy the intention of the poet; if his business +be to move terror and pity, and one of his actions +he comical, the other tragical, the former will divert +the people, and utterly make void his greater +purpose. Therefore, as in perspective, so in tragedy, +there must be a point of sight in which all +the lines terminate; otherwise the eye wanders, and +the work is false. This was the practice of the Grecian +stage. But Terence made an innovation in +the Roman: all his plays have double actions; for +it was his custom to translate two Greek comedies, +and to weave them into one of his, yet so, that +both their actions were comical, and one was principal, +the other but secondary or subservient. And +this has obtained on the English stage, to give us +the pleasure of variety.</p> + +<p><span class="pgnm">245</span><a id="page_245" name="page_245"></a> +As the action ought to be one, it ought, as such, +to have order in it; that is, to have a natural beginning, +a middle, and an end. A natural beginning, +says Aristotle, is that which could not necessarily +have been placed after another thing; and so of the +rest. This consideration will arraign all plays after +the new model of Spanish plots, where accident is +heaped upon accident, and that which is first might +as reasonably be last; an inconvenience not to be +remedied, but by making one accident naturally +produce another, otherwise it is a farce and not a +play. Of this nature is the "Slighted Maid;" where +there is no scene in the first act, which might not by +as good reason be in the fifth. And if the action +ought to be one, the tragedy ought likewise to +conclude with the action of it. Thus in "Mustapha," +the play should naturally have ended with +the death of Zanger, and not have given us the +grace-cup after dinner, of Solyman's divorce from +Roxolana.</p> + +<p>The following properties of the action are so +easy, that they need not my explaining. It ought +to be great, and to consist of great persons, to distinguish +it from comedy, where the action is trivial, +and the persons of inferior rank. The last quality +of the action is, that it ought to be probable, as +well as admirable and great. It is not necessary +that there should be historical truth in it; but always +necessary that there should be a likeness of +truth, something that is more than barely possible; +<i>probable</i> being that which succeeds, or happens, +oftener than it misses. To invent therefore a probability +and to make it wonderful, is the most difficult +undertaking in the art of poetry; for that, +which is not wonderful, is not great; and that, which +is not probable, will not delight a reasonable audience. +<span class="pgnm">246</span><a id="page_246" name="page_246"></a> +This action, thus described, must be represented +and not told, to distinguish dramatic poetry +from epic: but I hasten to the end or scope of tragedy, +which is, to rectify or purge our passions, +fear and pity.</p> + +<p>To instruct delightfully is the general end of all +poetry. Philosophy instructs, but it performs its +work by precept; which is not delightful, or not +so delightful as example. To purge the passions +by example, is therefore the particular instruction +which belongs to tragedy. Rapin, a judicious critic, +has observed from Aristotle, that pride and +want of commiseration are the most predominant +vices in mankind; therefore, to cure us of these +two, the inventors of tragedy have chosen to work +upon two other passions, which are, fear and pity. +We are wrought to fear, by their setting before our +eyes some terrible example of misfortune, which +happened to persons of the highest quality; for +such an action demonstrates to us, that no condition +is privileged from the turns of fortune; this +must of necessity cause terror in us, and consequently +abate our pride. But when we see that +the most virtuous, as well as the greatest, are not +exempt from such misfortunes, that consideration +moves pity in us, and insensibly works us to be +helpful to, and tender over, the distressed; which +is the noblest and most godlike of moral virtues, +Here it is observable, that it is absolutely necessary +to make a man virtuous, if we desire he should be +pitied: we lament not, but detest, a wicked man; +we are glad when we behold his crimes are punished, +and that poetical justice is done upon him. +Euripides was censured by the critics of his time, +for making his chief characters too wicked; for +example, Phædra, though she loved her son-in-law +with reluctancy, and that it was a curse upon her +<span class="pgnm">247</span><a id="page_247" name="page_247"></a> +family for offending Venus, yet was thought too +ill a pattern for the stage. Shall we therefore banish +all characters of villainy? I confess I am not +of that opinion; but it is necessary that the hero +of the play be not a villain; that is, the characters, +which should move our pity, ought to have virtuous +inclinations, and degrees of moral goodness in +them. As for a perfect character of virtue, it never +was in nature, and therefore there can be no imitation +of it; but there are allays of frailty to be allowed +for the chief persons, yet so that the good +which is in them shall outweigh the bad, and consequently +leave room for punishment on the one +side, and pity on the other.</p> + +<p>After all, if any one will ask me, whether a tragedy +cannot be made upon any other grounds than +those of exciting pity and terror in us;—Bossu, the +best of modern critics, answers thus in general: +That all excellent arts, and particularly that of +poetry, have been invented and brought to perfection +by men of a transcendent genius; and that, +therefore, they, who practise afterwards the same +arts, are obliged to tread in their footsteps, and to +search in their writings the foundation of them; +for it is not just that new rules should destroy the +authority of the old. But Rapin writes more particularly +thus, that no passions in a story are so +proper to move our concernment, as fear and pity; +and that it is from our concernment we receive our +pleasure, is undoubted. When the soul becomes +agitated with fear for one character, or hope for +another; then it is that we are pleased in tragedy, +by the interest which we take in their adventures.</p> + +<p>Here, therefore, the general answer may be given +to the first question, how far we ought to imitate +Shakespeare and Fletcher in their plots; namely, +that we ought to follow them so far only, as they +<span class="pgnm">248</span><a id="page_248" name="page_248"></a> +have copied the excellencies of those who invented +and brought to perfection dramatic poetry; those +things only excepted, which religion, custom of +countries, idioms of languages, &c. have altered in +the superstructures, but not in the foundation of +the design.</p> + +<p>How defective Shakespeare and Fletcher have +been in all their plots, Mr Rymer has discovered +in his criticisms. Neither can we, who follow +them, be excused from the same, or greater errors; +which are the more unpardonable in us, because +we want their beauties to countervail our faults. +The best of their designs, the most approaching to +antiquity, and the most conducing to move pity, is +the "King and no King;" which, if the farce of +Bessus were thrown away, is of that inferior sort +of tragedies, which end with a prosperous event. +It is probably derived from the story of Œdipus, +with the character of Alexander the Great, in his +extravagances, given to Arbaces. The taking of +this play, amongst many others, I cannot wholly +ascribe to the excellency of the action; for I find +it moving when it is read. It is true, the faults of +the plot are so evidently proved, that they can no +longer be denied. The beauties of it must therefore +lie either in the lively touches of the passion; +or we must conclude, as I think we may, that even +in imperfect plots there are less degrees of nature, +by which some faint emotions of pity and terror are +raised in us; as a less engine will raise a less proportion +of weight, though not so much as one of +Archimedes's making; for nothing can move our +nature, but by some natural reason, which works +upon passions. And, since we acknowledge the effect, +there must be something in the cause.</p> + +<p>The difference between Shakespeare and Fletcher, +in their plottings, seems to be this; that Shakespeare +<span class="pgnm">249</span><a id="page_249" name="page_249"></a> +generally moves more terror, and Fletcher +more compassion: for the first had a more masculine, +a bolder, and more fiery genius; the second, +a more soft and womanish. In the mechanic beauties +of the plot, which are the observation of the +three unities, time, place, and action, they are both +deficient; but Shakespeare most. Ben Jonson reformed +those errors in his comedies, yet one of +Shakespeare's was regular before him; which is, +"The Merry Wives of Windsor." For what remains +concerning the design, you are to be referred +to our English critic. That method which he has +prescribed to raise it, from mistake, or ignorance of +the crime, is certainly the best, though it is not the +only; for amongst all the tragedies of Sophocles, +there is but one, Œdipus, which is wholly built after +that model.</p> + +<p>After the plot, which is the foundation of the +play, the next thing to which we ought to apply +our judgment, is the manners; for now the poet +comes to work above ground. The ground-work, +indeed, is that which is most necessary, as that upon +which depends the firmness of the whole fabric; +yet it strikes not the eye so much, as the beauties +or imperfections of the manners, the thoughts, and +the expressions.</p> + +<p>The first rule which Bossu prescribes to the writer +of an heroic poem, and which holds too by the +same reason in all dramatic poetry, is to make the +moral of the work; that is, to lay down to yourself +what that precept of morality shall be, which you +would insinuate into the people; as, namely, Homer's +(which I have copied in my "Conquest of +Granada,") was, that union preserves a commonwealth +and discord destroys it. Sophocles, in his +Œdipus, that no man is to be accounted happy before +his death. It is the moral that directs the +<span class="pgnm">250</span><a id="page_250" name="page_250"></a> +whole action of the play to one centre; and that +action or fable is the example built upon the moral, +which confirms the truth of it to our experience. +When the fable is designed, then, and not +before, the persons are to be introduced, with their +manners, characters, and passions.</p> + +<p>The manners, in a poem, are understood to be +those inclinations, whether natural or acquired, +which move and carry us to actions, good, bad, or +indifferent, in a play; or which incline the persons +to such or such actions. I have anticipated part of +this discourse already, in declaring that a poet +ought not to make the manners perfectly good in +his best persons; but neither are they to be more +wicked in any of his characters, than necessity requires. +To produce a villain, without other reason +than a natural inclination to villainy, is, in poetry, +to produce an effect without a cause; and to make +him more a villain than he has just reason to be, +is to make an effect which is stronger than the +cause.</p> + +<p>The manners arise from many causes; and are +either distinguished by complexion, as choleric and +phlegmatic, or by the differences of age or sex, of +climates, or quality of the persons, or their present +condition. They are likewise to be gathered from +the several virtues, vices, or passions, and many +other common-places, which a poet must be supposed +to have learned from natural philosophy, +ethics, and history; of all which, whosoever is ignorant, +does not deserve the name of poet.</p> + +<p>But as the manners are useful in this art, they +may be all comprised under these general heads: +First, they must be apparent; that is, in every character +of the play, some inclinations of the person +must appear; and these are shown in the actions +and discourse. Secondly, the manners must be +<span class="pgnm">251</span><a id="page_251" name="page_251"></a> +suitable, or agreeing to the persons; that is, to the +age, sex, dignity, and the other general heads of +manners: thus, when a poet has given the dignity +of a king to one of his persons, in all his actions +and speeches, that person must discover majesty, +magnanimity, and jealousy of power, because these +are suitable to the general manners of a king<a class="ftnt" href="#Troil_3-1">[1]</a>. The +third property of manners is resemblance; and this +is founded upon the particular characters of men, +as we have them delivered to us by relation or history; +that is, when a poet has the known character +of this or that man before him, he is bound to +represent him such, at least not contrary to that +which fame has reported him to have been. Thus, +it is not a poet's choice to make Ulysses choleric, +or Achilles patient, because Homer has described +them quite otherwise. Yet this is a rock, on which +ignorant writers daily split; and the absurdity is as +monstrous, as if a painter should draw a coward +running from a battle, and tell us it was the picture +of Alexander the Great.</p> + +<p>The last property of manners is, that they be +constant and equal, that is, maintained the same +through the whole design: thus, when Virgil had +once given the name of <i>pious</i> to Æneas, he was +<span class="pgnm">252</span><a id="page_252" name="page_252"></a> +bound to show him such, in all his words and actions +through the whole poem. All these properties +Horace has hinted to a judicious observer.—1. +<i>Notandi sunt tibi mores;</i> 2. <i>Aut famam sequere,</i> +3. <i>aut sibi concenientia finge;</i> 4. <i>Sercetur ad imum, +qualis ab incepto processerit, et sibi constet.</i></p> + +<p>From the manners, the characters of persons are +derived; for, indeed, the characters are no other +than the inclinations, as they appear in the several +persons of the poem; a character being thus defined,—that +which distinguishes one man from another. +Not to repeat the same things over again, +which have been said of the manners, I will only +add what is necessary here. A character, or that +which distinguishes one man from all others, cannot +be supposed to consist of one particular virtue, or +vice, or passion only; but it is a composition of +qualities which are not contrary to one another in +the same person. Thus, the same man may be liberal +and valiant, but not liberal and covetous; so in +a comical character, or humour, (which is an inclination +to this or that particular folly) Falstaff is a +liar, and a coward, a glutton, and a buffoon, because +all these qualities may agree in the same man; yet +it is still to be observed, that one virtue, vice, and +passion, ought to be shown in every man, as predominant +over all the rest; as covetousness in Crassus, +love of his country in Brutus; and the same in +characters which are feigned.</p> + +<p>The chief character or hero in a tragedy, as I +have already shown, ought in prudence to be such +a man, who has so much more of virtue in him than +of vice, that he may be left amiable to the audience, +which otherwise cannot have any concernment +for his sufferings; and it is on this one character, +that the pity and terror must be principally, +if not wholly, founded: a rule which is extremely +<span class="pgnm">253</span><a id="page_253" name="page_253"></a> +necessary, and which none of the critics, that I know, +have fully enough discovered to us. For terror and +compassion work but weakly when they are divided +into many persons. If Creon had been the chief +character in "Œdipus," there had neither been terror +nor compassion moved; but only detestation of the +man, and joy for his punishment; if Adrastus and +Eurydice had been made more appearing0characters, +then the pity had been divided, and lessened on the +part of Œdipus. But making Œdipus the best and +bravest person, and even Jocasta but an underpart +to him, his virtues, and the punishment of his fatal +crime, drew both the pity, and the terror to himself.</p> + +<p>By what has been said of the manners, it will be +easy for a reasonable man to judge, whether the +characters be truly or falsely drawn in a tragedy; +for if there be no manners appearing in the characters, +no concernment for the persons can be raised; +no pity or horror can be moved, but by vice or +virtue; therefore, without them, no person can have +any business in the play. If the inclinations be obscure, +it is a sign the poet is in the dark, and knows +not what manner of man he presents to you; and +consequently you can have no idea, or very imperfect, +of that man; nor can judge what resolutions +he ought to take; or what words or actions are proper +for him. Most comedies, made up of accidents +or adventures, are liable to fall into this error; and +tragedies with many turns are subject to it; for the +manners can never be evident, where the surprises +of fortune take up all the business of the stage; and +where the poet is more in pain, to tell you what +happened to such a man, than what he was. It is +one of the excellencies of Shakespeare, that the manners +of his persons are generally apparent; and you +see their bent and inclinations. Fletcher comes far +<span class="pgnm">254</span><a id="page_254" name="page_254"></a> +short of him in this, as indeed he does almost in +every thing. There are but glimmerings of manners +in most of his comedies, which run upon +adventures; and in his tragedies, Rollo, Otto, +the King and no King, Melantius, and many +others of his best, are but pictures shown you in the +twilight; you know not whether they resemble vice +or virtue, and they are either good, bad, or indifferent, +as the present scene requires it. But of all +poets, this commendation is to be given to Ben Jonson, +that the manners even of the most inconsiderable +persons in his plays, are every where apparent.</p> + +<p>By considering the second quality of manners, +which is, that they be suitable to the age, quality, +country, dignity, &c. of the character, we may likewise +judge whether a poet has followed nature. In +this kind, Sophocles and Euripides have more excelled +among the Greeks than Æschylus; and Terence +more than Plautus, among the Romans. Thus, +Sophocles gives to Œdipus the true qualities of a +king, in both those plays which bear his name; but +in the latter, which is the "Œdipus Coloneus," he +lets fall on purpose his tragic style; his hero speaks +not in the arbitrary tone; but remembers, in the +softness of his complaints, that he is an unfortunate +blind old man; that he is banished from his country, +and persecuted by his next relations. The present +French poets are generally accused, that wheresoever +they lay the scene, or in whatsoever age, the +manners of their heroes are wholly French. Racine's +Bajazet is bred at Constantinople; but his civilities +are conveyed to him, by some secret passage, +from Versailles into the seraglio. But our Shakespeare, +having ascribed to Henry the Fourth the +character of a king and of a father, gives him the +perfect manners of each relation, when either he +transacts with his son or with his subjects. Fletcher, +<span class="pgnm">255</span><a id="page_255" name="page_255"></a> +on the other side, gives neither to Arbaces, +nor to his king, in "The Maid's Tragedy," the +qualities which are suitable to a monarch; though +he may be excused a little in the latter, for the king +there is not uppermost in the character; it is the lover +of Evadne, who is king only in a second consideration; +and though he be unjust, and has other +faults which shall be nameless, yet he is not the +hero of the play. It is true, we find him a lawful +prince, (though I never heard of any king that was +in Rhodes) and therefore Mr Rymer's criticism +stands good,—that he should not be shown in so +vicious a character. Sophocles has been more judicious +in his "Antigona;" for, though he represents +in Creon a bloody prince, yet he makes him +not a lawful king, but an usurper, and Antigona +herself is the heroine of the tragedy: but when +Philaster wounds Arethusa and the boy; and Perigot +his mistress, in the "Faithful Shepherdess," +both these are contrary to the character of manhood. +Nor is Valentinian managed much better; +for, though Fletcher has taken his picture truly, and +shown him as he was, an effeminate, voluptuous +man, yet he has forgotten that he was an emperor, +and has given him none of those royal marks, which +ought to appear in a lawful successor of the throne. +If it be enquired, what Fletcher should have done +on this occasion; ought he not to have represented +Valentinian as he was;—Bossu shall answer this +question for me, by an instance of the like nature: +Mauritius, the Greek emperor, was a prince far surpassing +Valentinian, for he was endued with many +kingly virtues; he was religious, merciful, and valiant, +but withal he was noted of extreme covetousness, +a vice which is contrary to the character +of a hero, or a prince: therefore, says the critic, +that emperor was no fit person to be represented in +<span class="pgnm">256</span><a id="page_256" name="page_256"></a> +a tragedy, unless his good qualities were only to be +shown, and his covetousness (which sullied them +all) were slurred over by the artifice of the poet. +To return once more to Shakespeare; no man ever +drew so many characters, or generally distinguished +them better from one another, excepting only Jonson. +I will instance but in one, to show the copiousness +of his invention; it is that of Caliban, or +the monster, in "The Tempest." He seems there +to have created a person which was not in nature, +a boldness which, at first sight, would appear intolerable; +for he makes him a species of himself, +begotten by an incubus on a witch; but this, as I +have elsewhere proved, is not wholly beyond the +bounds of credibility, at least the vulgar still believe +it. We have the separated notions of a spirit, +and of a witch; (and spirits, according to Plato, are +vested with a subtle body; according to some of +his followers, have different sexes;) therefore, as +from the distinct apprehensions of a horse, and of +a man, imagination has formed a centaur; so, from +those of an incubus and a sorceress, Shakespeare has +produced his monster. Whether or no his generation +can be defended, I leave to philosophy; but of +this I am certain, that the poet has most judiciously +furnished him with a person, a language, and a +character, which will suit him, both by father's and +mother's side: he has all the discontents, and malice +of a witch, and of a devil, besides a convenient +proportion of the deadly sins; gluttony, sloth, and +lust, are manifest; the dejectedness of a slave is +likewise given him, and the ignorance of one bred +up in a desert island. His person is monstrous, and +he is the product of unnatural lust; and his language +is as hobgoblin as his person; in all things +he is distinguished from other mortals. The characters +of Fletcher are poor and narrow, in comparison +<span class="pgnm">257</span><a id="page_257" name="page_257"></a> +of Shakspeare's; I remember not one which is +not borrowed from him; unless you will except that +strange mixture of a man in the "King and no +King;" so that in this part Shakespeare is generally +worth our imitation; and to imitate Fletcher is but +to copy after him who was a copyer.</p> + +<p>Under this general head of manners, the passions +are naturally included, as belonging to the characters. +I speak not of pity and of terror, which are to +be moved in the audience by the plot; but of anger, +hatred, love, ambition, jealousy, revenge, &c. as they +are shown in this or that person of the play. To +describe these naturally, and to move them artfully, +is one of the greatest commendations which can be +given to a poet: to write pathetically, says Longinus, +cannot proceed but from a lofty genius. A +poet must be born with this quality: yet, unless he +help himself by an acquired knowledge of the passions, +what they are in their own nature, and by +what springs they are to be moved, he will be subject +either to raise them where they ought not to +be raised, or not to raise them by the just degrees +of nature, or to amplify them beyond the natural +bounds, or not to observe the crisis and turns of +them, in their cooling and decay; all which errors +proceed from want of judgment in the poet, and +from being unskilled in the principles of moral philosophy. +Nothing is more frequent in a fanciful +writer, than to foil himself by not managing his +strength; therefore, as, in a wrestler, there is first +required some measure of force, a well-knit body +and active limbs, without which all instruction +would be vain; yet, these being granted, if he want +the skill which is necessary to a wrestler, he shall +make but small advantage of his natural robustuousness: +so, in a poet, his inborn vehemence and force +of spirit will only run him out of breath the sooner, +<span class="pgnm">258</span><a id="page_258" name="page_258"></a> +if it be not supported by the help of art. The +roar of passion, indeed, may please an audience, +three parts of which are ignorant enough to think +all is moving which is noisy, and it may stretch the +lungs of an ambitious actor, who will die upon the +spot for a thundering clap; but it will move no +other passion than indignation and contempt from +judicious men. Longinus, whom I have hitherto +followed, continues thus:—If the passions be artfully +employed, the discourse becomes vehement and +lofty: if otherwise, there is nothing more ridiculous +than a great passion out of season: and to this +purpose he animadverts severely upon Æschylus, +who writ nothing in cold blood, but was always in +a rapture, and in fury with his audience: the inspiration +was still upon him, he was ever tearing +it upon the tripos; or (to run off as madly as he +does, from one similitude to another) he was always +at high-flood of passion, even in the dead ebb, +and lowest water-mark of the scene. He who +would raise the passion of a judicious audience, +says a learned critic, must be sure to take his hearers +along with him; if they be in a calm, 'tis in +vain for him to be in a huff: he must move them +by degrees, and kindle with them; otherwise he +will be in danger of setting his own heap of stubble +on fire, and of burning out by himself, without +warming the company that stand about him. They +who would justify the madness of poetry from the +authority of Aristotle, have mistaken the text, +and consequently the interpretation: I imagine it +to be false read, where he says of poetry, that it is +<span class="Greek" title="Euphuous ê manikou"> +Ευφυους +η +μανικου, +</span> that it had always somewhat in it +either of a genius, or of a madman. 'Tis more probable +that the original ran thus, that poetry was +<span class="Greek" title="Euphuous ou manikou"> +Ευφυους +ου +μανικου, +</span> That it belongs to a witty man, but +not to a madman. Thus then the passions, as they +<span class="pgnm">259</span><a id="page_259" name="page_259"></a> +are considered simply and in themselves, suffer violence +when they are perpetually maintained at the +same height; for what melody can be made on +that instrument, all whose strings are screwed up +at first to their utmost stretch, and to the same +sound? But this is not the worst: for the characters +likewise bear a part in the general calamity, if you +consider the passions as embodied in them; for it +follows of necessity, that no man can be distinguished +from another by his discourse, when every man +is ranting, swaggering, and exclaiming with the +same excess: as if it were the only business of all +the characters to contend with each other for the +prize at Billingsgate; or that the scene of the tragedy +lay in Bethlem. Suppose the poet should intend +this man to be choleric, and that man to be +patient; yet when they are confounded in the +writing, you cannot distinguish them from one +another: for the man who was called patient and +tame, is only so before he speaks; but let his clack +be set a-going, and he shall tongue it as impetuously +and as loudly, as the arrantest hero in the +play. By this means, the characters are only distinct +in name; but, in reality, all the men and women +in the play are the same person. No man +should pretend to write, who cannot temper his +fancy with his judgment: nothing is more dangerous +to a raw horseman, than a hot-mouthed jade +without a curb.</p> + +<p>It is necessary therefore for a poet, who would +concern an audience by describing of a passion, +first to prepare it, and not to rush upon it all at +once. Ovid has judiciously shown the difference +of these two ways, in the speeches of Ajax and +Ulysses: Ajax, from the very beginning, breaks out +into his exclamations, and is swearing by his +Maker,—<i>Agimus, proh Jupiter, inquit.</i> Ulysses, +<span class="pgnm">260</span><a id="page_260" name="page_260"></a> +on the contrary, prepares his audience with all the +submissiveness he can practise, and all the calmness +of a reasonable man; he found his judges in a +tranquillity of spirit, and therefore set out leisurely +and softly with them, till he had warmed them by +degrees; and then he began to mend his pace, and +to draw them along with his own impetuousness: +yet so managing his breath, that it might not fail +him at his need, and reserving his utmost proofs of +ability even to the last. The success, you see, was +answerable; for the crowd only applauded the speech +of Ajax;—</p> + +<div class="poem pi"> +<p>Vulgique secutum ultima murmur erat:—</p> +</div> + +<p class="noind">But the judges awarded the prize, for which they +contended, to Ulysses;</p> + +<div class="poem pi"> +<p>Mota manus procerum est; et quid facundia posset</p> +<p>Tum patuit, fortisque viri tulit arma disertus.</p> +</div> + +<p>The next necessary rule is, to put nothing into +the discourse, which may hinder your moving of +the passions. Too many accidents, as I have said, +incumber the poet, as much as the arms of Saul +did David; for the variety of passions, which they +produce, are ever crossing and justling each other +out of the way. He, who treats of joy and grief +together, is in a fair way of causing neither of +those effects. There is yet another obstacle to be +removed, which is,—pointed wit, and sentences affected +out of season; these are nothing of kin to +the violence of passion: no man is at leisure to +make sentences and similes, when his soul is in +an agony. I the rather name this fault, that it +may serve to mind me of my former errors; neither +will I spare myself, but give an example of this +<span class="pgnm">261</span><a id="page_261" name="page_261"></a> +kind from my "Indian Emperor." Montezuma, pursued +by his enemies, and seeking sanctuary, stands +parleying without the fort, and describing his danger +to Cydaria, in a simile of six lines;</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>As on the sands the frighted traveller</p> +<p>Sees the high seas come rolling from afar, &c.</p> +</div> + +<p>My Indian potentate was well skilled in the sea +for an inland prince, and well improved since the +first act, when he sent his son to discover it. The +image had not been amiss from another man, at +another time: <i>Sed nunc non erat his locus:</i> he destroyed +the concernment which the audience might +otherwise have had for him; for they could not +think the danger near, when he had the leisure to +invent a simile.</p> + +<p>If Shakespeare be allowed, as I think he must, to +have made his characters distinct, it will easily be +inferred, that he understood the nature of the passions: +because it has been proved already, that confused +passions make distinguishable characters: yet +I cannot deny that he has his failings; but they +are not so much in the passions themselves, as in +his manner of expression: he often obscures his +meaning by his words, and sometimes makes it unintelligible. +I will not say of so great a poet, that +he distinguished not the blown puffy stile, from +true sublimity; but I may venture to maintain, +that the fury of his fancy often transported him +beyond the bounds of judgment, either in coining +of new words and phrases, or racking words which +were in use, into the violence of a catachresis. It is +not that I would explode the use of metaphors +from passion, for Longinus thinks them necessary +to raise it: but to use them at every word, to say +nothing without a metaphor, a simile, an image, or +<span class="pgnm">262</span><a id="page_262" name="page_262"></a> +description; is, I doubt, to smell a little too strongly +of the buskin. I must be forced to give an example +of expressing passion figuratively; but that +I may do it with respect to Shakespeare, it shall +not be taken from any thing of his: it is an exclamation +against Fortune, quoted in his Hamlet, but +written by some other poet:</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>Out, out, thou strumpet Fortune! all you gods,</p> +<p>In general synod, take away her power;</p> +<p>Break all the spokes and felleys from her wheel,</p> +<p>And bowl the round nave down the hill of heav'n,</p> +<p>As low as to the fiends.</p> +</div> + +<p class="noind">And immediately after, speaking of Hecuba, when +Priam was killed before her eyes:</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>But who, ah woe! had seen the mobled queen</p> +<p>Run barefoot up and down, threatening the flame</p> +<p>With bisson rheum; a clout about that head,</p> +<p>Where late the diadem stood; and, for a rob</p> +<p>About her lank and all o'er-teemed loins,</p> +<p>A blanket in th' alarm of fear caught up.</p> +<p>Who this had seen, with tongue in venom steep'd</p> +<p>'Gainst fortune's state would treason have pronounc'd;</p> +<p>But if the gods themselves did see her then,</p> +<p>When she saw Pyrrhus make malicious sport</p> +<p>In mincing with his sword her husband's limbs,</p> +<p>The instant burst of clamour that she made</p> +<p>(Unless things mortal move them not at all)</p> +<p>Would have made milch the burning eyes of heaven,</p> +<p>And passion in the gods.</p> +</div> + +<p>What a pudder is here kept in raising the expression +of trifling thoughts! would not a man have +thought that the poet had been bound prentice to +a wheel-wright, for his first rant? and had followed +a rag-man, for the clout and blanket, in the second? +Fortune is painted on a wheel, and therefore the +writer, in a rage, will have poetical justice done +<span class="pgnm">263</span><a id="page_263" name="page_263"></a> +upon every member of that engine: after this execution, +he bowls the nave down-hill, from heaven, +to the fiends: (an unreasonable long mark, a man +would think;) 'tis well there are no solid orbs to +stop it in the way, or no element of fire to consume +it: but when it came to the earth, it must be +monstrous heavy, to break ground as low as the +center. His making milch the burning eyes of +heaven, was a pretty tolerable flight too: and I +think no man ever drew milk out of eyes before +him: yet, to make the wonder greater, these eyes +were burning. Such a sight indeed were enough +to have raised passion in the gods; but to excuse +the effects of it, he tells you, perhaps they did not +see it. Wise men would be glad to find a little +sense couched under all these pompous words; for +bombast is commonly the delight of that audience, +which loves poetry, but understands it not: and as +commonly has been the practice of those writers, +who, not being able to infuse a natural passion into +the mind, have made it their business to ply the +ears, and to stun their judges by the noise. But +Shakespeare does not often thus; for the passions in +his scene between Brutus and Cassius are extremely +natural, the thoughts are such as arise from the +matter, the expression of them not viciously figurative. +I cannot leave this subject, before I do justice +to that divine poet, by giving you one of his +passionate descriptions: 'tis of Richard the Second +when he was deposed, and led in triumph through +the streets of London by Henry of Bolingbroke: the +painting of it is so lively, and the words so moving +that I have scarce read any thing comparable to it, +in any other language. Suppose you have seen already +the fortunate usurper passing through the +crowd, and followed by the shouts and acclamations +of the people; and now behold King Richard +<span class="pgnm">264</span><a id="page_264" name="page_264"></a> +entering upon the scene: consider the wretchedness +of his condition, and his carriage in it; and refrain +from pity, if you can:</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>As in a theatre, the eyes of men,</p> +<p>After a well-grac'd actor leaves the stage,</p> +<p>Are idly bent on him that enters next,</p> +<p>Thinking his prattle to be tedious:</p> +<p>Even so, or with much more contempt, men's eyes</p> +<p>Did scowl on Richard: no man cry'd, God save him:</p> +<p>No joyful tongue gave him his welcome home,</p> +<p>But dust was thrown upon his sacred head,</p> +<p>Which with such gentle sorrow he shook off,</p> +<p>His face still combating with tears and smiles,</p> +<p>(The badges of his grief and patience)</p> +<p>That had not God (for some strong purpose) steel'd</p> +<p>The hearts of men, they must perforce have melted,</p> +<p>And barbarism itself have pitied him.</p> +</div> + +<p>To speak justly of this whole matter: it is neither +height of thought that is discommended, nor pathetic +vehemence, nor any nobleness of expression +in its proper place; but it is a false measure of all +these, something which is like them, and is not +them: it is the Bristol-stone, which appears like a +diamond; it is an extravagant thought, instead of a +sublime one; it is roaring madness, instead of vehemence; +and a sound of words, instead of sense. If +Shakespeare were stripped of all the bombasts in his +passions, and dressed in the most vulgar words, we +should find the beauties of his thoughts remaining; +if his embroideries were burnt down, there would +still be silver at the bottom of the melting-pot: +but I fear (at least let me fear it for myself) that +we, who ape his sounding words, have nothing of +his thought, but are all outside; there is not so +much as a dwarf within our giant's clothes. Therefore, +let not Shakespeare suffer for our sakes; it is our +fault, who succeed him in an age which is more refined, +if we imitate him so ill, that we copy his +<span class="pgnm">265</span><a id="page_265" name="page_265"></a> +failings only, and make a virtue of that in our writings, +which in his was an imperfection.</p> + +<p>For what remains, the excellency of that poet +was, as I have said, in the more manly passions; +Fletcher's in the softer: Shakespeare writ better betwixt +man and man; Fletcher, betwixt man and +woman: consequently, the one described friendship +better; the other love: yet Shakespeare taught +Fletcher to write love: and Juliet and Desdemona +are originals. It is true, the scholar had the softer +soul; but the master had the kinder. Friendship +is both a virtue and a passion essentially; love is a +passion only in its nature, and is not a virtue but +by accident: good nature makes friendship; but +effeminacy love. Shakespeare had an universal +mind, which comprehended all characters and passions; +Fletcher a more confined and limited: for +though he treated love in perfection, yet honour, +ambition, revenge, and generally all the stronger, +passions, he either touched not, or not masterly. +To conclude all, he was a limb of Shakespeare.</p> + +<p>I had intended to have proceeded to the last property +of manners, which is, that they must be constant, +and the characters maintained the same from +the beginning to the end; and from thence to have +proceeded to the thoughts and expressions suitable +to a tragedy: but I will first see how this will relish +with the age. It is, I confess, but cursorily written; +yet the judgment, which is given here, is generally +founded upon experience: but because many +men are shocked at the name of rules, as if they +were a kind of magisterial prescription upon poets, +I will conclude with the words of Rapin, in his Reflections +on Aristotle's Work of Poetry: "If the +rules be well considered, we shall find them to be +made only to reduce nature into method, to trace her +step by step, and not to suffer the least mark of her +<span class="pgnm">266</span><a id="page_266" name="page_266"></a> +to escape us: it is only by these, that probability in +fiction is maintained, which is the soul of poetry. +They are founded upon good sense, and sound reason, +rather than on authority; for though Aristotle +and Horace are produced, yet no man must argue, +that what they write is true, because they writ it; +but 'tis evident, by the ridiculous mistakes and gross +absurdities, which have been made by those poets +who have taken their fancy only for their guide, +that if this fancy be not regulated, it is a mere caprice, +and utterly incapable to produce a reasonable +and judicious poem."</p> + +<div class="ftnt"> +<p>Footnote</p> +<ol> +<li><a id="Troil_3-1" name="Troil_3-1"></a>The <i>dictum</i> of Rymer, concerning the royal prerogative in +poetry, is thus expressed: "We are to presume the highest virtues, +where we find the highest of rewards; and though it is not +necessary that all heroes should be kings, yet, undoubtedly, all +crowned heads, by poetical right, are heroes. This character is +a flower; a prerogative so certain, so inseparably annexed to the +crown, as by no parliament of poets ever to be invaded." <i>The +Tragedies of the last Age considered,</i> p. 61. Dryden has elsewhere +given his assent to this maxim, that a king, in poetry, as in +our constitution, can do no wrong. The only apology for introducing +a tyrant upon the stage, was to make him at the same +time an usurper.</li> +</ol></div> + +<div><span class="pgnm">267</span><a id="page_267" name="page_267"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">PROLOGUE<br /><br /> + +SPOKEN BY MR BETTERTON,<br /> +REPRESENTING THE GHOST OF SHAKESPEARE.</h3> + + +<div class="poem"> +<p>See, my loved Britons, see your Shakespeare rise,</p> +<p>An awful ghost confessed to human eyes!</p> +<p>Unnamed, methinks, distinguished I had been</p> +<p>From other shades, by this eternal green,</p> +<p>About whose wreaths the vulgar poets strive,</p> +<p>And with a touch, their withered bays revive.</p> +<p>Untaught, unpractised, in a barbarous age,</p> +<p>I found not, but created first the stage.</p> +<p>And, if I drained no Greek or Latin store,</p> +<p>'Twas, that my own abundance gave me more.</p> +<p>On foreign trade I needed not rely,</p> +<p>Like fruitful Britain, rich without supply.</p> +<p>In this my rough-drawn play, you shall behold</p> +<p>Some master-strokes, so manly and so bold,</p> +<p>That he who meant to alter, found 'em such,</p> +<p>He shook, and thought it sacrilege to touch.</p> +<p>Now, where are the successors to my name?</p> +<p>What bring they to fill out a poet's fame?</p> +<p>Weak, short-lived issues of a feeble age;</p> +<p>Scarce living to be christened on the stage!</p> +<p>For humour farce, for love they rhyme dispense,</p> +<p>That tolls the knell for their departed sense.</p> +<p>Dulness might thrive in any trade but this:</p> +<p>'Twould recommend to some fat benefice.</p> +<p>Dulness, that in a playhouse meets disgrace,</p> +<p>Might meet with reverence, in its proper place.</p> +<p>The fulsome clench, that nauseates the town,</p> +<p>Would from a judge or alderman go down,</p> +<p>Such virtue is there in a robe and gown!</p> +<p>And that insipid stuff which here you hate,</p> +<p>Might somewhere else be called a grave debate;</p> +<p>Dulness is decent in the church and state.</p> +<p>But I forget that still 'tis understood,</p> +<p>Bad plays are best decried by showing good.</p> +<p>Sit silent then, that my pleased soul may see</p> +<p>A judging audience once, and worthy me;</p> +<span class="pgnm">268</span><a id="page_268" name="page_268"></a> +<p>My faithful scene from true records shall tell,</p> +<p>How Trojan valour did the Greek excell;</p> +<p>Your great forefathers shall their fame regain,</p> +<p>And Homer's angry ghost repine in vain<a class="ftnt" href="#Troil_4-1">[1]</a>.</p> +</div> + +<div class="ftnt"> +<p>Footnote:</p> +<ol> +<li><a id="Troil_4-1" name="Troil_4-1"></a>The conceit, which our ancestors had adopted, of their descent from +Brutus, a fugitive Trojan, induced their poets to load the Grecian chiefs with +every accusation of cowardice and treachery, and to extol the character of +the Trojans in the same proportion. Hector is always represented as having +been treacherously slain.</li> +</ol></div> + +<h3 class="chap">DRAMATIS PERSONÆ.</h3> + +<table class="dpgrp" summary="Hector and Troilus"> +<tr> +<td class="smcap">Hector,<br /> +Troilus,</td> +<td>}<br /> +}</td> +<td><i>Sons of</i> <span class="smcap">Priam.</span></td> +</tr> +</table> +<p class="noind" style="margin-top: 0; margin-bottom: 0;"><span class="smcap">Priam,</span> <i>King of Troy.</i><br /> +<span class="smcap">Æneas,</span> <i>a Trojan Warrior.</i><br /> +<span class="smcap">Pandarus,</span> <i>Uncle to</i> <span class="smcap">Cressida.</span><br /> +<span class="smcap">Calchas,</span> <i>a Trojan Priest, and Father to</i> <span class="smcap">Cressida,</span> +<i>a fugitive to the Grecian camp.</i></p> +<table class="dpgrp" summary="Grecian Warriors"> +<tr> +<td class="smcap">Agamemnon,<br /> +Ulysses,<br /> +Achilles,<br /> +Ajax,<br /> +Nestor,<br /> +Diomedes,<br /> +Patroclus,<br /> +Menelaus,</td> +<td>}<br /> +}<br /> +}<br /> +}<br /> +}<br /> +}<br /> +}<br /> +}</td> +<td><i>Grecian Warriors, engaged in the +siege of Troy.</i> +</td> +</tr> +</table> +<p class="noind" style="margin-top: 0;"><span class="smcap">Thersites,</span> <i>a slanderous Buffoon.</i></p> + +<p class="noind"><span class="smcap">Cressida,</span> <i>Daughter to</i> <span class="smcap">Calchas.</span><br /> +<span class="smcap">Andromache,</span> <i>Wife to</i> <span class="smcap">Hector.</span></p> + +<div><span class="pgnm">269</span><a id="page_269" name="page_269"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">TROILUS AND CRESSIDA</h3> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT I.<br /> +SCENE I.—<i>A Camp.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Agamemnon, Ulysses, Diomedes,</span> and +<span class="cnm">Nestor.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> Princes, it seems not strange to us, nor new,<br /> +That, after nine years siege, Troy makes defence,<br /> +Since every action of recorded fame<br /> +Has with long difficulties been involved,<br /> +Not answering that idea of the thought,<br /> +Which gave it birth; why then, you Grecian chiefs,<br /> +With sickly eyes do you behold our labours,<br /> +And think them our dishonour, which indeed<br /> +Are the protractive trials of the gods,<br /> +To prove heroic constancy in men?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> With due observance of thy sovereign seat,<br /> +Great Agamemnon, Nestor shall apply<br /> +Thy well-weighed words. In struggling with misfortunes<br /> +Lies the true proof of virtue: On smooth seas,<br /> +How many bauble-boats dare set their sails,<br /> +And make an equal way with firmer vessels!<br /> +But let the tempest once enrage that sea,<br /> +And then behold the strong-ribbed argosie,<br /> +Bounding between the ocean and the air,<br /> +Like Perseus mounted on his Pegasus.<br /> +<span class="pgnm">270</span><a id="page_270" name="page_270"></a> +Then where are those weak rivals of the main?<br /> +Or, to avoid the tempest, fled to port,<br /> +Or made a prey to Neptune. Even thus<br /> +Do empty show, and true-prized worth, divide<br /> +In storms of fortune.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Mighty Agamemnon!<br /> +Heart of our body, soul of our designs,<br /> +In whom the tempers, and the minds of all<br /> +Should be inclosed,—hear what Ulysses speaks.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> You have free leave.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Troy had been down ere this, and Hector's sword<br /> +Wanted a master, but for our disorders:<br /> +The observance due to rule has been neglected,<br /> +Observe how many Grecian tents stand void<br /> +Upon this plain, so many hollow factions:<br /> +For, when the general is not like the hive,<br /> +To whom the foragers should all repair,<br /> +What honey can our empty combs expect?<br /> +Or when supremacy of kings is shaken,<br /> +What can succeed? How could communities,<br /> +Or peaceful traffic from divided shores,<br /> +Prerogative of age, crowns, sceptres, laurels,<br /> +But by degree, stand on their solid base?<br /> +Then every thing resolves to brutal force,<br /> +And headlong force is led by hoodwinked will.<br /> +For wild ambition, like a ravenous wolf,<br /> +Spurred on by will, and seconded by power,<br /> +Must make an universal prey of all,<br /> +And last devour itself.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> Most prudently Ulysses has discovered<br /> +The malady, whereof our state is sick.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> 'Tis truth he speaks; the general's disdained<br /> +By him one step beneath, he by the next;<br /> +That next by him below: So each degree<br /> +Spurns upward at superior eminence.<br /> +Thus our distempers are their sole support;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">271</span><a id="page_271" name="page_271"></a> +Troy in our weakness lives, not in her strength.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> The nature of this sickness found, inform us<br /> +From whence it draws its birth?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> The great Achilles, whom opinion crowns<br /> +The chief of all our host,<br /> +Having his ears buzzed with his noisy fame,<br /> +Disdains thy sovereign charge, and in his tent<br /> +Lies, mocking our designs; with him Patroclus,<br /> +Upon a lazy bed, breaks scurril jests,<br /> +And with ridiculous and aukward action,<br /> +Which, slanderer, he imitation calls,<br /> +Mimics the Grecian chiefs.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> As how, Ulysses?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Even thee, the king of men, he does not spare,<br /> +(The monkey author) but thy greatness pageants,<br /> +And makes of it rehearsals: like a player,<br /> +Bellowing his passion till he break the spring,<br /> +And his racked voice jar to his audience;<br /> +So represents he thee, though more unlike<br /> +Than Vulcan is to Venus.<br /> +And at this fulsome stuff,—the wit of apes,—<br /> +The large Achilles, on his prest bed lolling,<br /> +From his deep chest roars out a loud applause,<br /> +Tickling his spleen, and laughing till he wheeze.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> Nor are you spared, Ulysses; but, as you speak in council,<br /> +He hems ere he begins, then strokes his beard,<br /> +Casts down his looks, and winks with half an eye;<br /> +Has every action, cadence, motion, tone,<br /> +All of you but the sense.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> Fortune was merry<br /> +When he was born, and played a trick on nature,<br /> +To make a mimic prince; he ne'er acts ill,<br /> +But when he would seem wise:<br /> +For all he says or does, from serious thought,<br /> +Appears so wretched, that he mocks his title,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">272</span><a id="page_272" name="page_272"></a> +And is his own buffoon.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> In imitation of this scurril fool,<br /> +Ajax is grown self-willed as broad Achilles.<br /> +He keeps a table too, makes factious feasts,<br /> +Rails on our state of war, and sets Thersites<br /> +(A slanderous slave of an o'erflowing gall)<br /> +To level us with low comparisons.<br /> +They tax our policy with cowardice,<br /> +Count wisdom of no moment in the war,<br /> +In brief, esteem no act, but that of hand;<br /> +The still and thoughtful parts, which move those hands,<br /> +With them are but the tasks cut out by fear,<br /> +To be performed by valour.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> Let this be granted, and Achilles' horse<br /> +Is more of use than he; but you, grave pair,<br /> +Like Time and Wisdom marching hand in hand,<br /> +Must put a stop to these encroaching ills:<br /> +To you we leave the care;<br /> +You, who could show whence the distemper springs,<br /> +Must vindicate the dignity of kings.<span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">SCENE II.—<i>Troy.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Pandarus</span> and <span class="cnm">Troilus.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Why should I fight without the Trojan walls,<br /> +Who, without fighting, am o'erthrown within?<br /> +The Trojan who is master of a soul,<br /> +Let him to battle; Troilus has none.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Will this never be at an end with you?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> The Greeks are strong, and skilful to their strength,<br /> +Fierce to their skill, and to their fierceness wary;<br /> +But I am weaker than a woman's tears,<br /> +Tamer than sleep, fonder than ignorance,<br /> +And artless as unpractised infancy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand</span> Well, I have told you enough of this; for +<span class="pgnm">273</span><a id="page_273" name="page_273"></a> +my part I'll not meddle nor make any further in +your love; he, that will eat of the roastmeat, must +stay for the kindling of the fire.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Have I not staid?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Ay, the kindling; but you must stay the +spitting of the meat.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Have I not staid?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Ay, the spitting; but there's two words to +a bargain; you must stay the roasting too.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Still have I staid; and still the farther off.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> That's but the roasting, but there's more +in this word stay; there's the taking off the spit, +the making of the sauce, the dishing, the setting on +the table, and saying grace; nay, you must stay +the cooling too, or you may chance to burn your +chaps.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> At Priam's table pensive do I sit,<br /> +And when fair Cressid comes into my thoughts—<br /> +(Can she be said to come, who ne'er was absent!)</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Well, she's a most ravishing creature; and +she looked yesterday most killingly; she had such +a stroke with her eyes, she cut to the quick with +every glance of them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> I was about to tell thee, when my heart<br /> +Was ready with a sigh to cleave in two,<br /> +Lest Hector or my father should perceive me,<br /> +I have, with mighty anguish of my soul,<br /> +Just at the birth, stifled this still-born sigh,<br /> +And forced my face into a painful smile.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> I measured her with my girdle yesterday; +she's not half a yard about the waist, but so taper a +shape did I never see; but when I had her in my +arms, Lord, thought I,—and by my troth I could not +forbear sighing,—If prince Troilus had her at this advantage +and I were holding of the door!—An she +were a thought taller,—but as she is, she wants not +an inch of Helen neither; but there's no more comparison +<span class="pgnm">274</span><a id="page_274" name="page_274"></a> +between the women—there was wit, there +was a sweet tongue! How her words melted in her +mouth! Mercury would have been glad to have +such a tongue in his mouth, I warrant him. I +would somebody had heard her talk yesterday, as +I did.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Oh Pandarus, when I tell thee I am mad<br /> +In Cressid's love, thou answer'st she is fair;<br /> +Praisest her eyes, her stature, and her wit;<br /> +But praising thus, instead of oil and balm,<br /> +Thou lay'st, in every wound her love has given me,<br /> +The sword that made it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> I give her but her due.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Thou giv'st her not so much.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Faith, I'll speak no more of her, let her be +as she is; if she be a beauty, 'tis the better for her; +an' she be not, she has the mends in her own hands, +for Pandarus.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> In spite of me, thou wilt mistake my meaning.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> I have had but my labour for my pains; ill +thought on of her, and ill thought on of you; gone +between and between, and am ground in the mill-stones +for my labour.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> What, art thou angry, Pandarus, with thy friend?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Because she's my niece, therefore she's not +so fair as Helen; an' she were not my niece, show +me such another piece of woman's flesh: take her +limb by limb: I say no more, but if Paris had seen +her first, Menelaus had been no cuckold: but what +care I if she were a blackamoor? what am I the better +for her face?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Said I she was not beautiful?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> I care not if you did; she's a fool to stay +behind her father Calchas: let her to the Greeks; +and so I'll tell her. For my part, I am resolute, I'll +meddle no more in your affairs.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> But hear me!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">275</span><a id="page_275" name="page_275"></a> +<span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Not I.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Dear Pandarus—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Pray speak no more on't; I'll not burn my +fingers in another body's business; I'll leave it as I +found it, and there's an end.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> O gods, how do you torture me!<br /> +I cannot come to Cressida but by him,<br /> +And he's as peevish to be wooed to woo,<br /> +As she is to be won.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Æneas.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æneas.</span> How now, prince Troilus; why not in the battle?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Because not there. This woman's answer suits me,<br /> +For womanish it is to be from thence.<br /> +What news, Æneas, from the field to-day?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> Paris is hurt.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> By whom?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> By Menelaus. Hark what good sport<span class="sdr">[Alarm within.</span><br /> +Is out of town to-day! When I hear such music,<br /> +I cannot hold from dancing.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> I'll make one,<br /> +And try to lose an anxious thought or two<br /> +In heat of action.<br /> +Thus, coward-like, from love to war I run,<br /> +Seek the less dangers, and the greater shun.<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Troil.</span></span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Cressida.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> My lord Æneas, who were those went by?<br /> +I mean the ladies.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> Queen Hecuba and Helen.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> And whither go they?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> Up to the western tower,<br /> +Whose height commands, as subject, all the vale,<br /> +To see the battle. Hector, whose patience<br /> +Is fixed like that of heaven, to-day was moved;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">276</span><a id="page_276" name="page_276"></a> +He chid Andromache, and struck his armourer,<br /> +And, as there were good husbandry in war.<br /> +Before the sun was up he went to field;<br /> +Your pardon, lady, that's my business too.<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Æneas.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Hector's a gallant warrior.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Pandarus.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> What's that, what's that?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Good-morrow, uncle Pandarus.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Good-morrow, cousin Cressida. When +were you at court?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> This morning, uncle.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> What were you a talking, when I came? +Was Hector armed, and gone ere ye came? Hector +was stirring early.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> That I was talking of, and of his anger.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Was he angry, say you? true, he was so, +and I know the cause. He was struck down yesterday +in the battle, but he'll lay about him; he'll +cry quittance with them to-day. I'll answer for him. +And there's Troilus will not come far behind him: +let them take heed of Troilus, I can tell them that +too.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> What, was he struck down too?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Who, Troilus? Troilus is the better man +of the two.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Oh Jupiter! there's no comparison! Troilus +the better man.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> What, no comparison between Hector and +Troilus? do you know a man if you see him?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> No: for he may look like a man, and not +be one.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Well, I say Troilus is Troilus.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> That's what I say; for I am sure he is not +Hector.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> No, nor Hector is not Troilus: make your +best of that, niece!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">277</span><a id="page_277" name="page_277"></a> +<span class="cnm">Cres.</span> 'Tis true, for each of them is himself.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Himself! alas, poor Troilus! I would he +were himself: well, the gods are all-sufficient, and +time must mend or end. I would he were himself, +and would I were a lady for his sake. I would not +answer for my maidenhead.—No, Hector is not a +better man than Troilus.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Excuse me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Pardon me; Troilus is in the bud, 'tis +early day with him; you shall tell me another tale +when Troilus is come to bearing; and yet he will +not bear neither, in some sense. No, Hector shall +never have his virtues.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> No matter.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Nor his beauty, nor his fashion, nor his +wit; he shall have nothing of him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> They would not become him, his own are +better.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> How, his own better! you have no judgment, +niece; Helen herself swore, the other day, that +Troilus, for a manly brown complexion,—for so it +is, I must confess—not brown neither.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> No, but very brown.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Faith, to say truth, brown and not brown. +Come, I swear to you, I think Helen loves him better +than Paris: nay, I'm sure she does. She comes +me to him the other day, into the bow-window,—and +you know Troilus has not above three or four +hairs on his chin,—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> That's but a bare commendation.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> But to prove to you that Helen loves him, +she comes, and puts me her white hand to his cloven +chin.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Has he been fighting then? how came it +cloven?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Why, you know it is dimpled. I cannot +chuse but laugh, to think how she tickled his cloven +<span class="pgnm">278</span><a id="page_278" name="page_278"></a> +chin. She has a marvellous white hand, I must +needs confess. But let that pass, for I know who +has a whiter. Well, cousin, I told you a thing yesterday; +think on it, think on it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> So I do, uncle.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> I'll be sworn it is true; he will weep ye, +an' it were a man born in April.<span class="sdr">[A retreat sounded.</span><br /> +Hark, they are returning from the field; shall we +stay and see them as they come by, sweet niece? +do, sweet niece Cressida.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> For once you shall command me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Here, here, here is an excellent place; we +may see them here most bravely, and I'll tell you +all their names as they pass by; but mark Troilus +above the rest; mark Troilus, he's worth your marking.</p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="cnm">Æneas</span> passes over the Stage.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Speak not so loud then.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> That's Æneas. Is it not a brave man that? +he's a swinger, many a Grecian he has laid with his +face upward; but mark Troilus: you shall see anon.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Antenor</span> passing.</p> + +<p class="dlg">That's Antenor; he has a notable head-piece I can +tell you, and he's the ablest man for judgment in +all Troy; you may turn him loose, i'faith, and by +my troth a proper person. When comes Troilus? +I'll shew you Troilus anon; if he see me, you shall +see him nod at me.</p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="cnm">Hector</span> passes over.</p> + +<p class="dlg">That's Hector, that, that, look you that; there's +a fellow! go thy way, Hector; there's a brave man, +niece. O brave Hector, look how he looks! there's +a countenance. Is it not a brave man, niece?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">279</span><a id="page_279" name="page_279"></a> +<span class="cnm">Cres.</span> I always told you so.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Is he not? it does a man's heart good to +look on him; look you, look you there, what hacks +are on his helmet! this was no boy's play, i'faith; he +laid it on with a vengeance, take it off who will, as +they say! there are hacks, niece!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Were those with swords?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Swords, or bucklers, faulchions, darts, and +lances! any thing, he cares not! an' the devil come, +it is all one to him: by Jupiter he looks so terribly, +that I am half afraid to praise him.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Paris.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg">Yonder comes Paris, yonder comes Paris! look ye +yonder, niece; is it not a brave young prince too? +He draws the best bow in all Troy; he hits you to +a span twelve-score level:—who said he came home +hurt to-day? why, this will do Helen's heart good +now! ha! that I could see Troilus now!</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Helenus.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Who's that black man, uncle?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> That is Helenus.—I marvel where Troilus +is all this while;—that is Helenus.—I think Troilus +went not forth to-day;—that's Helenus.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Can Helenus fight, uncle?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Helenus! No, yes; he'll fight indifferently +well.—I marvel in my heart what's become of +Troilus:—Hark! do you not hear the people cry, +Troilus?—Helenus is a priest, and keeps a whore; +he'll fight for his whore, or he's no true priest, I +warrant him.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Troilus</span> passing over.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> What sneaking fellow comes yonder?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Where, yonder? that's Deiphobus: No, +I lie. I lie, that's Troilus! there's a man, niece! +<span class="pgnm">280</span><a id="page_280" name="page_280"></a> +hem! O brave Troilus! the prince of chivalry, and +flower of fidelity!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Peace, for shame, peace!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Nay, but mark him then! O brave Troilus! +there's a man of men, niece! look you how his +sword is bloody, and his helmet more hacked than +Hector's, and how he looks, and how he goes! O +admirable youth! he never saw two-and-twenty. +Go thy way, Troilus, go thy way! had I a sister +were a grace, and a daughter a goddess, he should +take his choice of them. O admirable man! Paris, +Paris is dirt to him, and I warrant, Helen, to change, +would give all the shoes in her shop to boot.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter common Soldiers passing over.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Here come more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Asses, fools, dolts, dirt, and dung, stuff, +and lumber, porridge after meat; but I could live +and die with Troilus. Ne'er look, niece, ne'er look, +the lions are gone: apes and monkeys, the fag end +of the creation. I had rather be such a man as +Troilus, than Agamemnon and all Greece.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> There's Achilles among the Greeks, he's a +brave man.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Achilles! a carman, a beast of burden; +a very camel: have you any eyes, niece? do you +know a man? is he to be compared with Troilus?</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter Page.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Page.</span> Sir, my lord Troilus would instantly speak +with you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Where boy, where?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Page.</span> At his own house, if you think convenient.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Good boy, tell him I come instantly: I +doubt he's wounded. Farewell, good niece. But I'll +be with you by and by.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> To bring me, uncle!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">281</span><a id="page_281" name="page_281"></a> +<span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Ay, a token from prince Troilus.<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Pandar.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres</span>. By the same token, you are a procurer, uncle.</p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="cnm">Cressida</span> alone.</p> + +<p class="dlg">A strange dissembling sex we women are:<br /> +Well may we men, when we ourselves deceive.<br /> +Long has my secret soul loved Troilus;<br /> +I drunk his praises from my uncle's mouth,<br /> +As if my ears could ne'er be satisfied:<br /> +Why then, why said I not, I love this prince?<br /> +How could my tongue conspire against my heart,<br /> +To say I loved him not? O childish love!<br /> +'Tis like an infant, froward in his play,<br /> +And what he most desires, he throws away.<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT II.<br /> +SCENE I.—<i>Troy.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Priam, Hector, Troilus,</span> and <span class="cnm">Æneas.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Priam.</span> After the expence of so much time and blood,<br /> +Thus once again the Grecians send to Troy;—<br /> +Deliver Helen, and all other loss<br /> +Shall be forgotten.—Hector, what say you to it?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Though no man less can fear the Greeks than I,<br /> +Yet there's no virgin of more tender heart,<br /> +More ready to cry out,—who knows the consequence?<br /> +Than Hector is; for modest doubt is mixed<br /> +With manly courage best: let Helen go.<br /> +If we have lost so many lives of ours,<br /> +To keep a thing not ours, not worth to us<br /> +The value of a man, what reason is there<br /> +Still to retain the cause of so much ill?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">282</span><a id="page_282" name="page_282"></a> +<span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Fye, fye, my noble brother!<br /> +Weigh you the worth and honour of a king,<br /> +So great as Asia's monarch, in a scale<br /> +Of common ounces thus?<br /> +Are fears and reasons fit to be considered,<br /> +When a king's fame is questioned?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Brother, she's not worth<br /> +What her defence has cost us.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> What's aught, but as 'tis valued?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> But value dwells not in opinion only:<br /> +It holds the dignity and estimation,<br /> +As well, wherein 'tis precious of itself,<br /> +As in the prizer: 'tis idolatry,<br /> +To make the service greater than the god.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> We turn not back the silks upon the merchant,<br /> +When we have worn them; the remaining food<br /> +Throw not away, because we now are full.<br /> +If you confess, 'twas wisdom Paris went;—<br /> +As you must needs, for you all cried, <i>Go, go:</i>—<br /> +If you'll confess, he brought home noble prize;—<br /> +As you must needs, for you all clapped your hands,<br /> +And cried, <i>Inestimable!</i>—Why do you now<br /> +So under-rate the value of your purchase?<br /> +For, let me tell you, 'tis unmanly theft,<br /> +When we have taken what we fear to keep.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æne.</span> There's not the meanest spirit in our party,<br /> +Without a heart to dare, or sword to draw,<br /> +When Helen is defended: None so noble,<br /> +Whose life were ill bestowed, or death unfamed,<br /> +When Helen is the subject.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Priam.</span> So says Paris,<br /> +Like one besotted on effeminate joys;<br /> +He has the honey still, but these the gall.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æne.</span> He not proposes merely to himself<br /> +The pleasures such a beauty brings with it;<br /> +But he would have the stain of Helen's rape<br /> +<span class="pgnm">283</span><a id="page_283" name="page_283"></a> +Wiped off, in honourable keeping her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Troilus and Æneas, you have said;<br /> +If saying superficial things be reason.<br /> +But if this Helen be another's wife,<br /> +The moral laws of nature and of nations<br /> +Speak loud she be restored. Thus to persist<br /> +In doing wrong, extenuates not wrong,<br /> +But makes it much more so. Hector's opinion<br /> +Is this, in way of truth: yet, ne'ertheless,<br /> +My sprightly brother, I incline to you<br /> +In resolution to defend her still:<br /> +For 'tis a cause on which our Trojan honour<br /> +And common reputation will depend.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Why there you touched the life of our design:<br /> +Were it not glory that we covet more<br /> +Than war and vengeance, (beasts' and women's pleasure)<br /> +I would not wish a drop of Trojan blood<br /> +Spent more in her defence; but oh! my brother,<br /> +She is a subject of renown and honour;<br /> +And I presume brave Hector would not lose<br /> +The rich advantage of his future fame<br /> +For the wide world's revenue:—I have business;<br /> +But glad I am to leave you thus resolved.<br /> +When such arms strike, ne'er doubt of the success.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> May we not guess?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> You may, and be deceived.<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Troil.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> A woman, on my life: even so it happens,<br /> +Religion, state-affairs, whate'er's the theme,<br /> +It ends in woman still.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Andromache.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Priam.</span> See, here's your wife,<br /> +To make that maxim good.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Welcome, Andromache: your looks are chearful,<br /> +You bring some pleasing news.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andro.</span> Nothing that's serious.<br /> +<span class="pgnm">284</span><a id="page_284" name="page_284"></a> +Your little son Astyanax has employed me<br /> +As his ambassadress.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Upon what errand?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andro.</span> No less than that his grandfather this day<br /> +Would make him knight: he longs to kill a Grecian:<br /> +For should he stay to be a man, he thinks<br /> +You'll kill them all; and leave no work for him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Priam.</span> Your own blood, Hector.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andro.</span> And therefore he designs to send a challenge<br /> +To Agamemnon, Ajax, or Achilles,<br /> +To prove they do not well to burn our fields,<br /> +And keep us cooped like prisoners in a town,<br /> +To lead this lazy life.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> What sparks of honour<br /> +Fly from this child! the gods speak in him sure:<br /> +—It shall be so—I'll do't.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Priam.</span> What means my son?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> To send a challenge to the boldest Greek.<br /> +Is not that country ours? those fruitful fields<br /> +Washed by yon silver flood, are they not ours?<br /> +Those teeming vines that tempt our longing eyes,<br /> +Shall we behold them? shall we call them ours,<br /> +And dare not make them so? by heavens I'll know<br /> +Which of these haughty Grecians dares to think<br /> +He can keep Hector prisoner here in Troy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Priam.</span> If Hector only were a private man,<br /> +This would be courage; but in him 'tis madness.<br /> +The general safety on your life depends;<br /> +And, should you perish in this rash attempt,<br /> +Troy with a groan would feel her soul go out,<br /> +And breathe her last in you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> The task you undertake is hazardous:<br /> +Suppose you win, what would the profit be?<br /> +If Ajax or Achilles fell beneath<br /> +Your thundering arm, would all the rest depart?<br /> +Would Agamemnon, or his injured brother,<br /> +Set sail for this? then it were worth your danger.<br /> +But, as it is, we throw our utmost stake<br /> +<span class="pgnm">285</span><a id="page_285" name="page_285"></a> +Against whole heaps of theirs.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Priam.</span> He tells you true.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> Suppose one Ajax, or Achilles lost,<br /> +They can repair with more that single loss:<br /> +Troy has but one, one Hector.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> No, Æneas!<br /> +What then art thou; and what is Troilus?<br /> +What will Astyanax be?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Priam.</span> An Hector one day,<br /> +But you must let him live to be a Hector;<br /> +And who shall make him such, when you are gone?<br /> +Who shall instruct his tenderness in arms,<br /> +Or give his childhood lessons of the war?<br /> +Who shall defend the promise of his youth,<br /> +And make it bear in manhood? the young sapling<br /> +Is shrouded long beneath the mother-tree,<br /> +Before it be transplanted from its earth,<br /> +And trust itself for growth.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Alas, my father!<br /> +You have not drawn one reason from yourself,<br /> +But public safety, and my son's green years:<br /> +In this neglecting that main argument,<br /> +Trust me you chide my filial piety;<br /> +As if I could be won from my resolves<br /> +By Troy, or by my son, or any name<br /> +More dear to me than yours.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Priam.</span> I did not name myself, because I know<br /> +When thou art gone, I need no Grecian sword<br /> +To help me die, but only Hector's loss.—<br /> +Daughter, why speak not you? why stand you silent?<br /> +Have you no right in Hector, as a wife?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andro.</span> I would be worthy to be Hector's wife:<br /> +And had I been a man, as my soul's one,<br /> +I had aspired a nobler name,—his friend.<br /> +How I love Hector,—need I say I love him?—<br /> +I am not but in him:<br /> +But when I see him arming for his honour,<br /> +His country and his gods, that martial fire,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">286</span><a id="page_286" name="page_286"></a> +That mounts his courage, kindles even to me:<br /> +And when the Trojan matrons wait him out<br /> +With prayers, and meet with blessings his return,<br /> +The pride of virtue beats within my breast,<br /> +To wipe away the sweat and dust of war,<br /> +And dress my hero glorious in his wounds.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Come to my arms, thou manlier virtue, come!<br /> +Thou better name than wife! would'st thou not blush<br /> +To hug a coward thus?<span class="sdr">[Embrace.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Priam.</span> Yet still I fear!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andro.</span> There spoke a woman; pardon, royal sir;<br /> +Has he not met a thousand lifted swords<br /> +Of thick-ranked Grecians, and shall one affright him?<br /> +There's not a day but he encounters armies;<br /> +And yet as safe, as if the broad-brimmed shield,<br /> +That Pallas wears, were held 'twixt him and death.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Thou know'st me well, and thou shalt praise me more;<br /> +Gods make me worthy of thee!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andro.</span> You shall be<br /> +My knight this day; you shall not wear a cause<br /> +So black as Helen's rape upon your breast.<br /> +Let Paris fight for Helen; guilt for guilt:<br /> +But when you fight for honour and for me,<br /> +Then let our equal gods behold an act,<br /> +They may not blush to crown.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Æneas, go,<br /> +And bear my challenge to the Grecian camp.<br /> +If there be one amongst the best of Greece,<br /> +Who holds his honour higher than his ease,<br /> +Who knows his valour, and knows not his fear;<br /> +Who loves his mistress more than in confession,<br /> +And dares avow her beauty and her worth,<br /> +In other arms than hers,—to him this challenge.<br /> +I have a lady of more truth and beauty,<br /> +Than ever Greek did compass in his arms;<br /> +And will to-morrow, with the trumpet's call,<br /> +Mid-way between their tents and these our walls,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">287</span><a id="page_287" name="page_287"></a> +Maintain what I have said. If any come,<br /> +My sword shall honour him; if none shall dare,<br /> +Then shall I say, at my return to Troy,<br /> +The Grecian dames are sun-burnt, and not worth<br /> +The splinter of a lance.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> It shall be told them,<br /> +As boldly as you gave it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Priam.</span> Heaven protect thee!<span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">SCENE II.</h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Pandarus</span> and <span class="cnm">Cressida.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Yonder he stands, poor wretch! there +stands he with such a look, and such a face, and +such begging eyes! there he stands, poor prisoner!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cress.</span> What a deluge of words do you pour out, +uncle, to say just nothing?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Nothing, do you call it! is that nothing, +do you call that nothing? why he looks, for all the +world, like one of your rascally malefactors, just +thrown off the gibbet, with his cap down, his arms +tied down, his feet sprunting, his body swinging. +Nothing do you call it? this is nothing, with a +vengeance!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cress.</span> Or, what think you of a hurt bird, that +flutters about with a broken wing?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Why go to then, he cannot fly away then; +then, that's certain, that's undoubted: there he lies +to be taken up: but if you had seen him, when I +said to him,—Take a good heart, man, and follow +me; and fear no colours, and speak your mind, man: +she can never stand you; she will fall, an' 'twere +a leaf in autumn,—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cress.</span> Did you tell him all this, without my consent?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Why you did consent, your eyes consented; +they blabbed, they leered, their very corners +<span class="pgnm">288</span><a id="page_288" name="page_288"></a> +blabbed. But you'll say, your tongue said nothing. +No, I warrant it: your tongue was wiser; your +tongue was better bred; your tongue kept its own +counsel: nay, I'll say that for you, your tongue +said nothing.—Well, such a shamefaced couple did +I never see, days o'my life! so 'fraid of one another; +such ado to bring you to the business! Well, if this +job were well over, if ever I lose my pains again +with an aukward couple, let me be painted in the +sign-post for the <i>labour in vain</i>: Fye upon't, fye +upon't! there's no conscience in't: all honest people +will cry shame on't.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cress.</span> Where is this monster to be shown? what's +to be given for a sight of him?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Why, ready money, ready money; you carry +it about you: give and take is square-dealing; +for in my conscience he's as arrant a maid as you +are. I was fain to use violence to him, to pull him +hither: and he pulled, and I pulled: for you must +know he's absolutely the strongest youth in Troy. +T'other day he took Helen in one hand, and Paris +in t'other, and danc'd 'em at one another at arms-end +an' 'twere two moppets:—there was a back! there +were bone and sinews! there was a back for you!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cress.</span> For these good procuring offices you'll be +damned one day, uncle.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Who, I damned? Faith, I doubt I shall; by +my troth I think I shall: nay if a man be damned +for doing good, as thou say'st, it may go hard with +me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cress.</span> Then I'll not see prince Troilus; I'll not be +accessary to your damnation.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> How, not see prince Troilus? why I have +engaged, I have promised, I have past my word. I +care not for damning, let me alone for damning; I +value not damning in comparison with my word. +If I am damned, it shall be a good damning to thee, +<span class="pgnm">289</span><a id="page_289" name="page_289"></a> +girl, thou shalt be my heir; come, 'tis a virtuous girl; +thou shalt help me to keep my word, thou shalt see +prince Troilus.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cress.</span> The venture's great.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> No venture in the world; thy mother ventured +it for thee, and thou shalt venture it for my +little cousin, that must be.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cress.</span> Weigh but my fears: Prince Troilus is +young.—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Marry is he; there's no fear in that, I hope: +the fear were, if he were old and feeble.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cress.</span> And I a woman.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> No fear yet; thou art a woman, and he's +a man; put them together, put them together.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cress.</span> And if I should be frail—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> There's all my fear, that thou art not frail: +thou should'st be frail, all flesh is frail.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cress.</span> Are you my uncle, and can give this counsel +to your own brother's daughter?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> If thou wert my own daughter a thousand +times over, I could do no better for thee; what +wouldst thou have, girl? he's a prince, and a young +prince and a loving young prince! an uncle, dost +thou call me? by Cupid, I am a father to thee; get +thee in, get thee in, girl, I hear him coming. And +do you hear, niece! I give you leave to deny a +little, 'twill be decent; but take heed of obstinacy, +that's a vice; no obstinacy, my dear niece.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Cressida.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Troilus.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Now, Pandarus.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Now, my sweet prince! have you seen my +niece? no, I know you have not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> No, Pandarus; I stalk about your doors.<br /> +Like a strange soul upon the Stygian banks,<br /> +Staying for waftage. O, be thou my Charon,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">290</span><a id="page_290" name="page_290"></a> +And give me swift transportance to Elysium,<br /> +And fly with me to Cressida.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Walk here a moment more: I'll bring her +strait.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> I fear she will not come; most sure she +will not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> How, not come, and I her uncle! why, I +tell you, prince, she twitters at you. Ah poor sweet +rogue! ah, little rogue, now does she think, and +think, and think again of what must be betwixt +you two. Oh sweet,—oh sweet—O—what, not +come, and I her uncle?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Still thou flatter'st me; but pr'ythee flatter +still; for I would hope; I would not wake out +of my pleasing dream. Oh hope, how sweet thou +art! but to hope always, and have no effect of what +we hope!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Oh faint heart, faint heart! well, there's +much good matter in these old proverbs! No, she'll +not come, I warrant her; she has no blood of mine +in her, not so much as will fill a flea. But if she +does not come, and come, and come with a swing +into your arms—I say no more, but she has renounced +all grace, and there's an end.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> I will believe thee: go then, but be sure.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> No, you would not have me go; you are +indifferent—shall I go, say you? speak the word +then:—yet I care not: you may stand in your own +light, and lose a sweet young lady's heart—well, I +shall not go then.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Fly, fly, thou torturest me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Do I so, do I so? do I torture you indeed? +well, I will go.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> But yet thou dost not go.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> I go immediately, directly, in a twinkling, +with a thought: yet you think a man never does +enough for you; I have been labouring in your business +<span class="pgnm">291</span><a id="page_291" name="page_291"></a> +like any moyle. I was with prince Paris this +morning, to make your excuse at night for not supping +at court; and I found him—faith, how do +you think I found him? it does my heart good to +think how I found him: yet you think a man never +does enough for you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Will you go then?—What's this to Cressida?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Why, you will not hear a man! what's this +to Cressida? Why, I found him a-bed, a-bed with +Helena, by my troth: 'Tis a sweet queen, a sweet +queen; a very sweet queen,—but she's nothing to +my cousin Cressida; she's a blowse, a gipsy, a +tawny moor to my cousin Cressida; and she lay +with one white arm underneath the whoreson's +neck: Oh such a white, lilly-white, round, plump +arm as it was—and you must know it was stripped +up to the elbows; and she did so kiss him, and so +huggle him!—as who should say—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> But still thou stayest:—what's this to Cressida?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Why, I made your excuse to your brother +Paris; that I think's to Cressida:—but such an arm, +such a hand, such taper fingers! t'other hand was +under the bed-cloaths; that I saw not, I confess; +that hand I saw not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Again thou torturest me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Nay, I was tortured too; old as I am, I +was tortured too: but for all that, I could make a +shift, to make him, to make your excuse, to make +your father—by Jove, when I think of that hand, +I am so ravished, that I know not what I say: I +was tortured too.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Troilus</span> turns away discontented.</span><br /> +Well, I go, I go; I fetch her, I bring her, I conduct +her; not come quotha, and I her uncle!<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Pandarus.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> I'm giddy; expectation whirls me round:<br /> +The imaginary relish is so sweet,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">292</span><a id="page_292" name="page_292"></a> +That it enchants my sense; what will it be,<br /> +When I shall taste that nectar?<br /> +It must be either death, or joy too fine<br /> +For the capacity of human powers.<br /> +I fear it much: and I do fear beside,<br /> +That I shall lose distinction in my joys;<br /> +As does a battle, when they charge on heaps<br /> +A flying enemy.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Re-enter <span class="cnm">Pandarus.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> She's making her ready; she'll come strait: +you must be witty now!—she does so blush, and +fetches her breath so short, as if she were frighted +with a sprite; 'tis the prettiest villain! she fetches +her breath so short, as 'twere a new-ta'en sparrow.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Just such a passion does heave up my breast!<br /> +My heart beats thicker than a feverish pulse:<br /> +I know not where I am, nor what I do;<br /> +Just like a slave, at unawares encountering<br /> +The eye of majesty.—Lead on, I'll follow.<span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">SCENE III.—<i>The Camp.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Nestor,</span> and <span class="cnm">Ulysses.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> I have conceived an embryo in my brain:<br /> +Be you my time to bring it to some shape.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> What is't, Ulysses?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> The seeded pride,<br /> +That has to this maturity blown up<br /> +In rank Achilles, must or now be cropped,<br /> +Or, shedding, breed a nursery of like ill,<br /> +To overtop us all.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> That's my opinion.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> This challenge which Æneas brings from Hector,<br /> +However it be spread in general terms,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">293</span><a id="page_293" name="page_293"></a> +Relates in purpose only to Achilles.<br /> +And will it wake him to the answer, think you?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> It ought to do: whom can we else oppose,<br /> +Who could from Hector bring his honour off,<br /> +If not Achilles? the success of this,<br /> +Although particular, will give an omen<br /> +Of good or bad, even to the general cause.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Pardon me, Nestor, if I contradict you:<br /> +Therefore 'tis fit Achilles meet not Hector.<br /> +Let us, like merchants, show our coarsest wares,<br /> +And think, perchance they'll sell; but, if they do not,<br /> +The lustre of our better, yet unshown,<br /> +Will show the better: let us not consent,<br /> +Our greatest warrior should be matched with Hector;<br /> +For both our honour and our shame in this<br /> +Shall be attended with strange followers.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> I see them not with my old eyes; what are they?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> What glory our Achilles gains from Hector,<br /> +Were he not proud, we all should share with him:<br /> +But he already is too insolent:<br /> +And we had better parch in Afric sun,<br /> +Than in his pride, should he 'scape Hector fair.<br /> +But grant he should be foiled;<br /> +Why then our common reputation suffers<br /> +In that of our best man. No, make a lottery;<br /> +And, by device, let blockish Ajax draw<br /> +The chance to fight with Hector: among ourselves,<br /> +Give him allowance as the braver man;<br /> +For that will physic the great Myrmidon,<br /> +Who swells with loud applause; and make him fall<br /> +His crest, if brainless Ajax come safe off:<br /> +If not, we yet preserve a fair opinion,<br /> +That we have better men.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> Now I begin to relish thy advice:<br /> +Come, let us go to Agamemnon strait,<br /> +To inform him of our project.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">294</span><a id="page_294" name="page_294"></a> +<span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> 'Tis not ripe.<br /> +The skilful surgeon will not lance a sore,<br /> +Till nature has digested and prepared<br /> +The growing humours to her healing purpose;<br /> +Else must he often grieve the patient's sense,<br /> +When one incision, once well-timed, would serve.<br /> +Are not Achilles and dull Ajax friends?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> As much as fools can be.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> That knot of friendship first must be untied,<br /> +Ere we can reach our ends; for, while they love each other,<br /> +Both hating us, will draw too strong a bias,<br /> +And all the camp will lean that way they draw;<br /> +For brutal courage is the soldier's idol:<br /> +So, if one prove contemptuous, backed by t'other,<br /> +'Twill give the law to cool and sober sense,<br /> +And place the power of war in madmen's hands.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> Now I conceive you; were they once divided,<br /> +And one of them made ours, that one would check<br /> +The other's towering growth, and keep both low,<br /> +As instruments, and not as lords of war.<br /> +And this must be by secret coals of envy<br /> +Blown in their breast; comparisons of worth;<br /> +Great actions weighed of each; and each the best,<br /> +As we shall give him voice.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Here comes Thersites,</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Thersites.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg">Who feeds on Ajax, yet loves him not, because he cannot love;<br /> +But, as a species differing from mankind,<br /> +Hates all he sees, and rails at all he knows;<br /> +But hates them most from whom he most receives,<br /> +Disdaining that his lot should be so low,<br /> +That he should want the kindness which he takes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> There's none so fit an engine:—Save ye, Thersites.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">295</span><a id="page_295" name="page_295"></a> +<span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Hail, noble Grecian! thou relief of toils,<br /> +Soul of our mirth, and joy of sullen war,<br /> +In whose converse our winter nights are short,<br /> +And summer days not tedious.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Hang you both.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> How, hang us both!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> But hang thee first, thou very reverend fool!<br /> +Thou sapless oak, that liv'st by wanting thought,<br /> +And now, in thy three hundredth year, repin'st<br /> +Thou shouldst be felled: hanging's a civil death,<br /> +The death of men; thou canst not hang; thy trunk<br /> +Is only fit for gallows to hang others.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> A fine greeting.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> A fine old dotard, to repine at hanging<br /> +At such an age! what saw the Gods in thee,<br /> +That a cock-sparrow should but live three years,<br /> +And thou shouldst last three ages? he's thy better;<br /> +He uses life; he treads himself to death.<br /> +Thou hast forgot thy use some hundred years.<br /> +Thou stump of man, thou worn-out broom, thou lumber!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> I'll hear no more of him, his poison works;<br /> +What, curse me for my age!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Hold, you mistake him, Nestor; 'tis his custom:<br /> +What malice is there in a mirthful scene?<br /> +'Tis but a keen-edged sword, spread o'er with balm,<br /> +To heal the wound it makes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Thou beg'st a curse?<br /> +May'st thou quit scores then, and be hanged on Nestor,<br /> +Who hangs on thee! thou lead'st him by the nose;<br /> +Thou play'st him like a puppet; speak'st within him;<br /> +And when thou hast contrived some dark design,<br /> +To lose a thousand Greeks, make dogs-meat of us,<br /> +Thou lay'st thy cuckoo's egg within his nest,<br /> +And mak'st him hatch it; teachest his remembrance<br /> +<span class="pgnm">296</span><a id="page_296" name="page_296"></a> +To lie, and say, the like of it was practised<br /> +Two hundred years ago; thou bring'st the brain,<br /> +And he brings only beard to vouch thy plots.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> I'm no man's fool.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Then be thy own, that's worse.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> He'll rail all day.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Then we shall learn all day.<br /> +Who forms the body to a graceful carriage,<br /> +Must imitate our aukward motions first;<br /> +The same prescription does the wise Thersites<br /> +Apply, to mend our minds. The same he uses<br /> +To Ajax, to Achilles, to the rest;<br /> +His satires are the physic of the camp.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Would they were poison to't, ratsbane and hemlock!<br /> +Nothing else can mend you, and those two brawny fools.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> He hits 'em right;<br /> +Are they not such, my Nestor?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Dolt-heads, asses,<br /> +And beasts of burden; Ajax and Achilles!<br /> +The pillars, no, the porters of the war.<br /> +Hard-headed rogues! engines, mere wooden engines<br /> +Pushed on to do your work.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> They are indeed.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> But what a rogue art thou,<br /> +To say they are indeed! Heaven made them horses,<br /> +And thou put'st on their harness, rid'st and spurr'st them;<br /> +Usurp'st upon heaven's fools, and mak'st them thine.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> No; they are headstrong fools, to be corrected<br /> +By none but by Thersites; thou alone<br /> +Canst tame and train them to their proper use;<br /> +And, doing this, may'st claim a just reward<br /> +From Greece and royal Agamemnon's hands.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">297</span><a id="page_297" name="page_297"></a> +<span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Ay, when you need a man, you talk of giving,<br /> +For wit's a dear commodity among you;<br /> +But when you do not want him, then stale porridge,<br /> +A starved dog would not lap, and furrow water,<br /> +Is all the wine we taste: give drabs and pimps;<br /> +I'll have no gifts with hooks at end of them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Is this a man, O Nestor, to be bought?<br /> +Asia's not price enough! bid the world for him.<br /> +And shall this man, this Hermes, this Apollo,<br /> +Sit lag of Ajax' table, almost minstrel,<br /> +And with his presence grace a brainless feast?<br /> +Why they con sense from him, grow wits by rote,<br /> +And yet, by ill repeating, libel him,<br /> +Making his wit their nonsense: nay, they scorn him;<br /> +Call him bought railer, mercenary tongue!<br /> +Play him for sport at meals, and kick him off.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Yes, they can kick; my buttocks feel they can;<br /> +They have their asses tricks; but I'll eat pebbles,<br /> +I'll starve,—'tis brave to starve, 'tis like a soldier,—<br /> +Before I'll feed those wit-starved rogues with sense.<br /> +They shall eat dry, and choak for want of wit,<br /> +Ere they be moistened with one drop of mine.<br /> +Ajax and Achilles! two mud-walls of fool,<br /> +That only differ in degrees of thickness.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> I'd be revenged of both. When wine fumes high,<br /> +Set them to prate, to boast their brutal strength,<br /> +To vie their stupid courage, till they quarrel,<br /> +And play at hard head with their empty skulls.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Yes; they shall butt and kick, and all the while<br /> +I'll think they kick for me; they shall fell timber<br /> +On both sides, and then logwood will be cheap.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> And Agamemnon—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Pox of Agamemnon!<br /> +<span class="pgnm">298</span><a id="page_298" name="page_298"></a> +Cannot I do a mischief for myself,<br /> +But he must thank me for't?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> to <i>Nest.</i> Away; our work is done. +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> and <span class="cnm">Nest.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> This Agamemnon is a king of clouts,<br /> +A chip in porridge,—</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Ajax.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Thersites.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Set up to frighten daws from cherry-trees,—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Dog!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> A standard to march under.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Thou bitch-wolf! can'st thou not hear? feel then. +<span class="sdr">[Strikes him.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> The plague of Greece, and Helen's pox light on thee,<br /> +Thou mongrel mastiff, thou beef-witted lord!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Speak then, thou mouldy leaven of the camp;<br /> +Speak, or I'll beat thee into handsomeness.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> I shall sooner rail thee into wit; thou +canst kick, canst thou? A red murrain on thy jades +tricks!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Tell me the proclamation.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Thou art proclaimed a fool, I think.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> You whorson cur, take that.<span class="sdr">[Strikes him.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Thou scurvy valiant ass!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Thou slave!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Thou lord!—Ay, do, do,—would my buttocks +were iron, for thy sake!</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Achilles</span> and <span class="cnm">Patroclus.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Why, how now, Ajax! wherefore do you this?<br /> +How now, Thersites, what's the matter, man?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> I say this Ajax wears his wit in's belly, +and his guts in's brains.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Peace, fool.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> I would have peace, but the fool will not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">299</span><a id="page_299" name="page_299"></a> +<span class="cnm">Patro.</span> But what's the quarrel?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> I bade him tell me the proclamation, and +he rails upon me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> I serve thee not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> I shall cut out your tongue.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> 'Tis no matter; I shall speak as much +sense as thou afterwards. I'll see you hanged ere I +come any more to your tent; I'll keep where there's +wit stirring, and leave the faction of fools.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Going.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Nay, thou shalt not go, Thersites, till we +have squeezed the venom out of thee: pr'ythee, inform +us of this proclamation.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Why, you empty fuz-balls, your heads are +full of nothing else but proclamations.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Tell us the news, I say.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> You say! why you never said any thing +in all your life. But, since you will know, it is proclaimed +through the army, that Hector is to cudgel +you to-morrow.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> How, cudgel him, Thersites!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Nay, you may take a child's part on't if +you have so much courage, for Hector has challenged +the toughest of the Greeks; and it is in dispute +which of your two heads is the soundest timber. +A knotty piece of work he'll have betwixt +your noddles.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> If Hector be to fight with any Greek,<br /> +He knows his man.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Yes; he may know his man without art +magic.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> So he had need; for, to my certain knowledge, +neither of you two are conjurers to inform +him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> to <i>Ajax.</i> You do not mean yourself, sure?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> I mean nothing.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Thou mean'st so always.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Umh! mean nothing!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">300</span><a id="page_300" name="page_300"></a> +<span class="cnm">Thers.</span> [<i>Aside.</i>] Jove, if it be thy will, let these +two fools quarrel about nothing! 'tis a cause that's +worthy of them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> You said he knew his man; is there but one?<br /> +One man amongst the Greeks?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Since you will have it,<br /> +But one to fight with Hector.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Then I am he.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Weak Ajax!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Weak Achilles.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Weak indeed; God help you both!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> Come, this must be no quarrel.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> There's no cause for't</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> He tells you true, you are both equal.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Fools.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> I can brook no comparisons.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Nor I.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Well, Ajax.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Well, Achilles.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> So, now they quarrel in monosyllables; a +word and a blow, an't be thy will.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> You may hear more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> I would.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Expect.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Farewell.<span class="sdr">[Exeunt severally.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Curse on them, they want wine; your +true fool will never fight without it. Or a drab, a +drab; Oh for a commodious drab betwixt them! +would Helen had been here! then it had come to +something.<br /> +<span class="i1">Dogs, lions, bulls, for females tear and gore;</span><br /> +<span class="i1">And the beast, man, is valiant for his whore.</span> +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Thersites.</span></span></p> + +<div><span class="pgnm">301</span><a id="page_301" name="page_301"></a></div> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT III. SCENE I.</h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Thersites.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Shall the idiot Ajax use me thus? he beats +me, and I rail at him. O worthy satisfaction! would +I could but beat him, and he railed at me! Then +there's Achilles, a rare engineer; if Troy be not taken +till these two undermine it, the walls will stand +till they fall of themselves. Now the plague on the +whole camp, or rather the pox; for that's a curse +dependent on those that fight, as we do, for a cuckold's +quean.—What, ho, my lord Achilles!</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Patroclus.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> Who's there, Thersites? Good Thersites, +come in and rail.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> If I could have remembered an ass with +gilt trappings, thou hadst not slipped out of my +contemplation. But it is no matter: thyself upon +thyself! the common curse of mankind, folly +and ignorance, be thine in great abundance! Heavens +bless thee from a tutor, and discipline come +not near thee!—I have said my prayers; and the +devil, Envy, say Amen. Where's Achilles?</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Achilles.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Who's there, Thersites? Why, my digestion, +why hast thou not served thyself to my table +so many meals? Come, begin; what's Agamemnon?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Thy commander, Achilles.—Then tell me, +Patroclus, what's Achilles?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> Thy benefactor, Thersites. Then tell me, +pr'ythee, what's thyself?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Thy knower, Patroclus. Then tell me, +Patroclus, what art thou?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">302</span><a id="page_302" name="page_302"></a> +<span class="cnm">Patro.</span> Thou mayest tell, that knowest.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> O, tell, tell.—This must be very foolish; +and I die to have my spleen tickled.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> I'll decline the whole question. Agamemnon +commands Achilles; Achilles is my benefactor; +I am Patroclus's knower; and Patroclus is a fool.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> You rascal!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil,</span> He is a privileged man; proceed, Thersites. +Ha, ha, ha! pr'ythee, proceed, while I am in +the vein of laughing.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> And all these foresaid men are fools. Agamemnon's +a fool, to offer to command Achilles; +Achilles is a fool, to be commanded by him; I am +a fool, to serve such a fool; and Patroclus is a fool +positive.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> Why am I a fool?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Make that demand to heaven; it suffices +me, thou art one.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Acini.</span> Ha, ha, ha! O give me ribs of steel, or I +shall split with pleasure.—Now play me Nestor at +a night alarm: mimick him rarely; make him cough +and spit, and fumble with his gorget, and shake the +rivets with his palsy hand, in and out, in and out; +gad, that's exceeding foolish.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> Nestor shall not escape so; he has told us +what we are. Come, what's Nestor?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Why, he is an old wooden top, set up by +father Time three hundred years ago, that hums to +Agamemnon and Ulysses, and sleeps to all the world +besides.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> So let him sleep, for I'll no more of him.—O, +my Patroclus, I but force a smile; Ajax has +drawn the lot, and all the praise of Hector must be +his.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> I hope to see his praise upon his shoulders, +in blows and bruises; his arms, thighs, and body, +all full of fame, such fame as he gave me; and a +<span class="pgnm">303</span><a id="page_303" name="page_303"></a> +wide hole at last full in his bosom, to let in day +upon him, and discover the inside of a fool.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> How he struts in expectation of honour! +he knows not what he does.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Nay, that's no wonder, for he never did.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Pr'ythee, say how he behaves himself?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> O, you would be learning to practise against +such another time?—Why, he tosses up his head as +he had built castles in the air; and he treads upward +to them, stalks into the element; he surveys +himself, as it were to look for Ajax: he would be +cried, for he has lost himself; nay, he knows nobody; +I said, "Good-morrow, Ajax," and he replied, +"Thanks, Agamemnon."</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Thou shalt be my ambassador to him, Thersites.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> No, I'll put on his person; let Patroclus +make his demands to me, and you shall see the +pageant of Ajax.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> To him, Patroclus; tell him I humbly desire +the valiant Ajax to invite the noble Hector to +my tent; and to procure safe conduct for him from +our captain general Agamemnon.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> Jove bless the mighty Ajax!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Humh!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> I come from the great Achilles.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Ha!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> Who most humbly desires you to invite +Hector to his tent.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Humh!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> And to procure him safe conduct from +Agamemnon.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Agamemnon?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> Ay, my lord.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Ha!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> What say you to it?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Farewell, with all my heart.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">304</span><a id="page_304" name="page_304"></a> +<span class="cnm">Patro.</span> Your answer, sir?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> If to-morrow be a fair day, by eleven +o'clock it will go one way or the other; however, +he shall buy me dearly. Fare you well, with all +my heart.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Why, but he is not in this tune, is he?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> No; but he's thus out of tune. What +music will be in him when Hector has knocked +out his brains, I know not, nor I care not; but if +emptiness makes noise, his head will make melody.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> My mind is troubled, like a fountain stirred; +And I myself see not the bottom on't.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Would the fountain of his mind were clear, +that he might see an ass in it! I had rather be a +tick in a sheep, than such a valiant ignorance.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Agamemnon, Ajax, Diomedes,</span> and +<span class="cnm">Menelaus.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> Look, who comes here.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Patroclus, I'll speak with nobody;—come +in after me, Thersites.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Achilles</span> and <span class="cnm">Thersites.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Again.</span> Where's Achilles?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> Within, but ill disposed, my lord.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Men.</span> We saw him at the opening of his tent.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Again.</span> Let it be known to him, that we are here.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> I shall say so to him.<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Patroc.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> I know he is not sick.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Yes, lion-sick, sick of a proud heart: you +may call it melancholy, if you will humour him; +but, on my honour, it is no more than pride; and +why should he be proud?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Men.</span> Here comes Patroclus; but no Achilles +with him.</p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="pgnm">305</span><a id="page_305" name="page_305"></a> +Enter <span class="cnm">Patroclus.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> Achilles bids me tell you, he is sorry<br /> +If any thing more than your sport and pleasure<br /> +Did move you to this visit: He's not well,<br /> +And begs you would excuse him, as unfit<br /> +For present business.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> How! how's this, Patroclus?<br /> +We are too well acquainted with these answers.<br /> +Though he has much desert, yet all his virtues<br /> +Do in our eyes begin to lose their gloss.<br /> +We came to speak with him; you shall not err,<br /> +If you return, we think him over-proud,<br /> +And under-honest. Tell him this; and add,<br /> +That if he overhold his price so much,<br /> +We'll none of him; but let him, like an engine<br /> +Not portable, lie lag of all the camp.<br /> +A stirring dwarf is of more use to us,<br /> +Than is a sleeping giant: tell him so.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> I shall, and bring his answer presently.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> I'll not be satisfied, but by himself:<br /> +So tell him, Menelaus.<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Menelaus</span> and <span class="cnm">Patroclus.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> What's he more than another?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> No more than what he thinks himself.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Is he so much? Do you not think, he +thinks himself a better man than me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> No doubt he does.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Do you think so?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> No, noble Ajax; you are as strong, as valiant +but much more courteous.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Why should a man be proud? I know not +what pride is; I hate a proud man, as I hate the +engendering of toads.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] 'Tis strange he should, and love +himself so well.</p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="pgnm">306</span><a id="page_306" name="page_306"></a> +Re-enter <span class="cnm">Menelaus.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Men.</span> Achilles will not to the field to-morrow.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> What's his excuse?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Men.</span> Why, he relies on none<br /> +But his own will; possessed he is with vanity.<br /> +What should I say? he is so plaguy proud,<br /> +That the death-tokens of it are upon him,<br /> +And bode there's no recovery.</p> + +<p class="sdn"> Enter <span class="cnm">Ulysses</span> and <span class="cnm">Nestor.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> Let Ajax go to him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> O Agamemnon, let it not be so.<br /> +We'll consecrate the steps that Ajax makes,<br /> +When they go from Achilles. Shall that proud man<br /> +Be worshipped by a greater than himself,<br /> +One, whom we hold our idol?<br /> +Shall Ajax go to him? No, Jove forbid,<br /> +And say in thunder, go to him, Achilles.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] O, this is well; he rubs him where +it itches.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> If I go to him, with my gauntlet clenched +I'll pash him o'er the face.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> O no, you shall not go.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> An he be proud with me, I'll cure his pride; +a paultry insolent fellow!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> How he describes himself!<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> The crow chides blackness: [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>]—Here +is a man,—but 'tis before his face, and therefore I am +silent.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> Wherefore are you? He is not envious, as +Achilles is.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Know all the world, he is as valiant.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> A whoreson dog, that shall palter thus with +us! Would a were a Trojan!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Thank heaven, my lord, you're of a gentle nature;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">307</span><a id="page_307" name="page_307"></a> +Praise him that got you, her that brought you forth;<br /> +But he, who taught you first the use of arms,<br /> +Let Mars divide eternity in two,<br /> +And give him half. I will not praise your wisdom,<br /> +Nestor shall do't; but, pardon, father Nestor,—<br /> +Were you as green as Ajax, and your brain<br /> +Tempered like his, you never should excel him,<br /> +But be as Ajax is.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Shall I call you father?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Ay, my good son.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> Be ruled by him, lord Ajax.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> There is no staying here; the hart Achilles<br /> +Keeps thicket;—please it our great general,<br /> +I shall impart a counsel, which, observed,<br /> +May cure the madman's pride.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> In my own tent our talk will be more private.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> But nothing without Ajax;<br /> +He is the soul and substance of my counsels,<br /> +And I am but his shadow.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> You shall see<br /> +I am not like Achilles.<br /> +Let us confer, and I'll give counsel too.<span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">SCENE II.</h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Pandarus, Troilus,</span> and <span class="cnm">Cressida.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Come, come, what need you blush? Shame's +a baby; swear the oaths now to her, that you swore +to me: What, are you gone again? you must be +watched ere you are made tame, must you? Why +don't you speak to her first?—Come, draw this curtain +and let's see your picture; alas-a-day, how loth +you are to offend day-light! [<span class="sdm">They kiss.</span>] That's +well, that's well; nay, you shall fight your hearts +out ere I part you. So so—so so—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">308</span><a id="page_308" name="page_308"></a> +<span class="cnm">Troil.</span> You have bereft me of all words, fair Cressida.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Words pay no debts; give her deeds.—What +billing again! Here's, in witness whereof the +parties interchangeably—come in, come in, you +lose time both.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> O Cressida, how often have I wished me +here!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Wished, my lord!—The gods grant!—O, +my lord—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> What should they grant? what makes this +pretty interruption in thy words?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> I speak I know not what!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Speak ever so; and if I answer you<br /> +I know not what—it shows the more of love.<br /> +Love is a child that talks in broken language,<br /> +Yet then he speaks most plain.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> I find it true, that to be wise, and love,<br /> +Are inconsistent things.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> What, blushing still! have you not done +talking yet?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Well, uncle, what folly I commit, I dedicate +to you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> I thank you for that; if my lord get a +boy of you, you'll give him me. Be true to my +lord; if he flinch, I'll be hanged for him.—Now am +I in my kingdom!<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> You know your pledges now; your uncle's +word, and my firm faith.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Nay, I'll give my word for her too: Our +kindred are constant; they are burs, I can assure +you; they'll stick where they are thrown.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Boldness comes to me now, and I can speak:<br /> +Prince Troilus, I have loved you long.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Why was my Cressida then so hard to win?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Hard to seem won; but I was won, my lord—<br /> +What have I blabbed? who will be true to us,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">309</span><a id="page_309" name="page_309"></a> +When we are so unfaithful to ourselves!<br /> +O bid me hold my tongue; for, in this rapture,<br /> +Sure I shall speak what I should soon repent.<br /> +But stop my mouth.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> A sweet command, and willingly obeyed.<span class="sdr">[Kisses.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Pretty, i'faith!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> My lord, I do beseech you pardon me;<br /> +'Twas not my purpose thus to beg a kiss.<br /> +I am ashamed;—O heavens, what have I done!<br /> +For this time let me take my leave, my lord.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Leave! an you take leave till to-morrow +morning, call me Cut.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Pray, let me go.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Why, what offends you, madam?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> My own company.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> You cannot shun yourself.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Let me go try;<br /> +I have a kind of self resides in you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Oh that I thought truth could be in a woman,<br /> +(As if it can, I will presume in you,)<br /> +That my integrity and faith might meet<br /> +The same return from her, who has my heart,<br /> +How should I be exalted! but, alas,<br /> +I am more plain than dull simplicity,<br /> +And artless as the infancy of truth!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> In that I must not yield to you, my lord.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> All constant lovers shall, in future ages,<br /> +Approve their truth by Troilus. When their verse<br /> +Wants similes,—as turtles to their mates,<br /> +Or true as flowing tides are to the moon,<br /> +Earth to the centre, iron to adamant,—<br /> +At last, when truth is tired with repetition,<br /> +As true as Troilus, shall crown up the verse,<br /> +And sanctify the numbers.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Prophet may you be!<br /> +<span class="pgnm">310</span><a id="page_310" name="page_310"></a> +If I am false, or swerve from truth of love,<br /> +When Time is old, and has forgot itself<br /> +In all things else, let it remember me;<br /> +And, after all comparisons of falsehood,<br /> +To stab the heart of perjury in maids,<br /> +Let it be said—as false as Cressida.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Go to, little ones; a bargain made. Here +I hold your hand, and here my cousin's: if ever you +prove false to one another, after I have taken such +pains to bring you together, let all pitiful goers-between +be called to the world's end after my name, +<i>Pandars.</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> And will you promise, that the holy priest<br /> +Shall make us one for ever?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Priests! marry hang them, they make you +one! Go in, go in, and make yourselves one without +a priest; I'll have no priest's work in my house.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> I'll not consent, unless you swear.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Ay, do, do swear; a pretty woman's worth +an oath at any time. Keep or break, as time shall +try; but it is good to swear, for the saving of her +credit. Hang them, sweet rogues, they never expect +a man should keep it. Let him but swear, and +that's all they care for.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Heavens prosper me, as I devoutly swear,<br /> +Never to be but yours!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Whereupon I will lead you into a chamber; +and suppose there be a bed in it, as, ifack, I know +not, but you'll forgive me if there be—away, +away, you naughty hildings; get you together, get +you together. Ah you wags, do you leer indeed at +one another! do the neyes twinkle at him! get you +together, get you together.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Leads them out.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter at one Door <span class="cnm">Æneas,</span> with a Torch; at another, +<span class="cnm">Hector</span> and <span class="cnm">Diomede,</span> with Torches.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> So ho, who goes there? Æneas!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">311</span><a id="page_311" name="page_311"></a> +<span class="cnm">Æn.</span> Prince Hector!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> Good-morrow, lord Æneas.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> A valiant Greek, Æneas; take his hand;<br /> +Witness the process of your speech within;<br /> +You told how Diomede a whole week by days<br /> +Did haunt you in the field.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> Health to you, valiant sir,<br /> +During all business of the gentle truce;<br /> +But, when I meet you armed, as black defiance,<br /> +As heart can think, or courage execute.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> Both one and t'other Diomede embraces.<br /> +Our bloods are now in calm; and so long, health;<br /> +But when contention and occasion meet,<br /> +By Jove I'll play the hunter for thy life.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> And thou shall hunt a lion, that will fly<br /> +With his face backward. Welcome, Diomede,<br /> +Welcome to Troy. Now, by Anchises' soul,<br /> +No man alive can love in such a sort<br /> +The thing he means to kill more excellently.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> We know each other well.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> We do; and long to know each other worse.—<br /> +My lord, the king has sent for me in haste;<br /> +Know you the reason?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Yes; his purpose meets you.<br /> +It was to bring this Greek to Calchas' house,<br /> +Where Pandarus his brother, and his daughter<br /> +Fair Cressida reside; and there to render<br /> +For our Antenor, now redeemed from prison,<br /> +The lady Cressida.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> What! Has the king resolved to gratify<br /> +That traitor Calchas, who forsook his country,<br /> +And turned to them, by giving up this pledge?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> The bitter disposition of the time<br /> +Is such, though Calchas, as a fugitive,<br /> +Deserve it not, that we must free Antenor,<br /> +On whose wise counsels we can most rely;<br /> +And therefore Cressida must be returned.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">312</span><a id="page_312" name="page_312"></a> +<span class="cnm">Æn.</span> A word, my lord—Your pardon, Diomede—<br /> +Your brother Troilus, to my certain knowledge,<br /> +Does lodge this night in Pandarus's house.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Go you before. Tell him of our approach,<br /> +Which will, I fear, be much unwelcome to him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> I assure you,<br /> +Troilus had rather Troy were borne to Greece,<br /> +Than Cressida from Troy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> I know it well; and how he is, beside,<br /> +Of hasty blood.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> He will not hear me speak;<br /> +But I have noted long betwixt you two<br /> +A more than brother's love; an awful homage<br /> +The fiery youth pays to your elder virtue.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Leave it to me; I'll manage him alone;<br /> +Attend you Diomede.—My lord, good-morrow;<span class="sdr">[To <span class="cnm">Diom.</span></span><br /> +An urgent business takes me from the pleasure<br /> +Your company affords me; but Æneas,<br /> +With joy, will undertake to serve you here,<br /> +And to supply my room.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> [<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Diom.</span></span>] My lord, I wait you. +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt severally; <span class="cnm">Diomede</span> with <span class="cnm">Æneas, +Hector</span> at another Door.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Pandarus,</span> a Servant, Music.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Softly, villain, softly; I would not for half +Troy the lovers should be disturbed under my roof: +listen, rogue, listen; do they breathe?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Serv.</span> Yes, sir; I hear, by some certain signs, they +are both awake.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> That's as it should be; that's well o' both +sides. [<span class="sdm">Listens.</span>]—Yes, 'faith, they are both alive:—There +was a creak! there was a creak! they are +both alive, and alive like;—there was a creak! a +ha, boys!—Is the music ready?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">313</span><a id="page_313" name="page_313"></a> +<span class="cnm">Serv.</span> Shall they strike up, sir?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Art thou sure they do not know the parties?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Serv.</span> They play to the man in the moon, for +aught they know.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> To the man in the moon? ah rogue! do +they so indeed, rogue! I understand thee; thou art +a wag; thou art a wag. Come, towze rowze! in +the name of love, strike up, boys.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Music, and then a Song; during which <span class="cnm">Pandarus</span> +listens.</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<h5>I.</h5> +<div class="stanza pi"> +<p class="i2">Can life be a blessing,</p> +<p class="i2">Or worth the possessing,</p> +<p>Can life be a blessing, if love were away?</p> +<p class="i1">Ah, no! though our love all night keep us waking,</p> +<p>And though he torment us with cares all the day,</p> +<p class="i1">Yet he sweetens, he sweetens our pains in the taking;</p> +<p>There's an hour at the last, there's an hour to repay.</p> +</div> + +<h5>II.</h5> +<div class="stanza pi"> +<p class="i2">In every possessing,</p> +<p class="i2">The ravishing blessing,</p> +<p>In every possessing, the fruit of our pain,</p> +<p class="i1">Poor lovers forget long ages of anguish,</p> +<p>Whate'er they have suffered and done to obtain;</p> +<p class="i1">'Tis a pleasure, a pleasure to sigh and to languish,</p> +<p>When we hope, when we hope to be happy again.</p> +</div> +</div> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Put up, and vanish; they are coming out: +What a ferrup, will you play when the dance is +done? I say, vanish.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit music.</span><br /> +[<span class="sdm">Peeping.</span>] Good, i'faith! good, i'faith! what, hand +in hand—a fair quarrel, well ended! Do, do, walk +<span class="pgnm">314</span><a id="page_314" name="page_314"></a> +him, walk him;—a good girl, a discreet girl: I +see she will make the most of him.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Troilus</span> and <span class="cnm">Cressida.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Farewell, my life! leave me, and back to bed:<br /> +Sleep seal those pretty eyes,<br /> +And tie thy senses in as soft a band,<br /> +As infants void of thought.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> [<span class="sdm">Shewing himself.</span>] How now, how now; +how go matters? Hear you, maid, hear you; where's +my cousin Cressida?</p> + + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Go hang yourself, you naughty mocking uncle:<br /> +You bring me to do ill, and then you jeer me!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> What ill have I brought you to do? Say +what, if you dare now?—My lord, have I brought +her to do ill?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Come, come,—beshrew your heart, you'll +neither be good yourself, nor suffer others.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Alas, poor wench! alas, poor devil! Has +not slept to-night? would a'not, a naughty man, +let it sleep one twinkle? A bugbear take him!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> [<span class="sdm">Knock within.</span>]<br /> +Who's that at door? good uncle, go and see:—<br /> +My lord, come you again into my chamber.—<br /> +You smile and mock, as if I meant naughtily!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Indeed, indeed!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Come, you're deceived; I think of no such thing.— +<span class="sdr">[Knock again.</span><br /> +How earnestly they knock! Pray, come in: I would +not for all Troy you were seen here.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Troil.</span> and <span class="cnm">Cres.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Who's there? What's the matter?<br /> +Will you beat down the house there!</p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="pgnm">315</span><a id="page_315" name="page_315"></a> +Enter <span class="cnm">Hector.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Good morrow, my lord Pandarus; good +morrow!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Who's there? prince Hector! What news +with you so early?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Is not my brother Troilus here?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Here! what should he do here?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Come, he is here, my lord; do not deny him:<br /> +It does import him much to speak with me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Is he here, say you? It is more than I +know, I'll be sworn! For my part, I came in late.—What +should he do here?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Come, come, you do him wrong ere you're +aware; you'll be so true to him, that you'll be false +to him: You shall not know he's here; but yet go +fetch him hither; go.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Pand.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Troilus.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg">I bring you, brother, most unwelcome news;<br /> +But since of force you are to hear it told,<br /> +I thought a friend and brother best might tell it:<br /> +Therefore, before I speak, arm well your mind,<br /> +And think you're to be touched even to the quick;<br /> +That so, prepared for ill, you may be less<br /> +Surprised to hear the worst.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> See, Hector, what it is to be your brother!<br /> +I stand prepared already.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Come, you are hot;<br /> +I know you, Troilus, you are hot and fiery:<br /> +You kindle at a wrong, and catch it quick,<br /> +As stubble does the flame.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> 'Tis heat of blood,<br /> +And rashness of my youth; I'll mend that error:<br /> +Begin, and try my temper.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Can you think<br /> +<span class="pgnm">316</span><a id="page_316" name="page_316"></a> +Of that one thing, which most could urge your anger,<br /> +Drive you to madness, plunge you in despair,<br /> +And make you hate even me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> There can be nothing.<br /> +I love you, brother, with that awful love<br /> +I bear to heaven, and to superior virtue:<br /> +And when I quit this love, you must be that,<br /> +Which Hector ne'er can be.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Remember well<br /> +What you have said; for, when I claim your promise,<br /> +I shall expect performance.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> I am taught:<br /> +I will not rage.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Nor grieve beyond a man?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> I will not be a woman.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Do not, brother:<br /> +And I will tell my news in terms so mild,<br /> +So tender, and so fearful to offend,<br /> +As mothers use to sooth their froward babes;<br /> +Nay, I will swear, as you have sworn to me,<br /> +That, if some gust of passion swell your soul<br /> +To words intemperate, I will bear with you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> What would this pomp of preparation mean?<br /> +Come you to bring me news of Priam's death,<br /> +Or Hecuba's?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> The gods forbid I should!<br /> +But what I bring is nearer you, more close,<br /> +An ill more yours.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> There is but one that can be.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Perhaps, 'tis that.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> I'll not suspect my fate<br /> +So far; I know I stand possessed of that.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> 'Tis well: consider at whose house I find you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Ha!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Does it start you? I must wake you more;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">317</span><a id="page_317" name="page_317"></a> +Antenor is exchanged.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> For whom?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Imagine.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> It comes, like thunder grumbling in a cloud,<br /> +Before the dreadful break: If here it fall,<br /> +The subtle flame will lick up all my blood,<br /> +And, in a moment, turn my heart to ashes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> That Cressida for Antenor is exchanged,<br /> +Because I knew 'twas harsh, I would not tell;<br /> +Not all at once; but by degrees and glimpses<br /> +I let it in, lest it might rush upon you,<br /> +And quite o'erpower your soul: In this, I think,<br /> +I showed a friend: your part must follow next;<br /> +Which is, to curb your choler, tame your grief,<br /> +And bear it like a man.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> I think I do,<br /> +That I yet live to hear you. But no more;<br /> +Hope for no more; for, should some goddess offer<br /> +To give herself and all her heaven in change,<br /> +I would not part with Cressida: So return<br /> +This answer as my last.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> 'Twill not be taken:<br /> +Nor will I bear such news.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> You bore me worse.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Worse for yourself; not for the general state,<br /> +And all our common safety, which depends<br /> +On freed Antenor's wisdom.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> You would say,<br /> +That I'm the man marked out to be unhappy,<br /> +And made the public sacrifice for Troy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> I would say so indeed; for, can you find<br /> +A fate more glorious than to be that victim?<br /> +If parting from a mistress can procure<br /> +A nation's happiness, show me that prince<br /> +Who dares to trust his future fame so far,<br /> +To stand the shock of annals, blotted thus,—<br /> +<span class="pgnm">318</span><a id="page_318" name="page_318"></a> +He sold his country for a woman's love!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> O, she's my life, my being, and my soul!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Suppose she were,—which yet I will not grant,—<br /> +You ought to give her up.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> For whom?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> The public.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> And what are they, that I should give up her,<br /> +To make them happy? Let me tell you, brother,<br /> +The public is the lees of vulgar slaves;<br /> +Slaves, with the minds of slaves; so born, so bred.<br /> +Yet such as these, united in a herd,<br /> +Are called, the public! Millions of such cyphers<br /> +Make up the public sum. An eagle's life<br /> +Is worth a world of crows. Are princes made<br /> +For such as these; who, were one soul extracted<br /> +From all their beings, could not raise a man?—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> And what are we, but for such men as these?<br /> +'Tis adoration, some say, makes a god:<br /> +And who should pay it, where would be their altars,<br /> +Were no inferior creatures here on earth?<br /> +Even those, who serve, have their expectancies,<br /> +Degrees of happiness, which they must share,<br /> +Or they'll refuse to serve us.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Let them have it;<br /> +Let them eat, drink, and sleep; the only use<br /> +They have of life.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> You take all these away,<br /> +Unless you give up Cressida.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Forbear:<br /> +Let Paris give up Helen; she's the cause,<br /> +And root, of all this mischief.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Your own suffrage<br /> +Condemns you there: you voted for her stay.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> If one must stay, the other shall not go.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> She shall not?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Once again I say, she shall not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">319</span><a id="page_319" name="page_319"></a> +<span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Our father has decreed it otherwise.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> No matter.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> How! no matter, Troilus?<br /> +A king, a father's will!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> When 'tis unjust.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Come, she shall go.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> She shall? then I am dared.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> If nothing else will do.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Answer me first,<br /> +And then I'll answer that,—be sure I will,—<br /> +Whose hand sealed this exchange?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> My father's first;<br /> +Then all the council's after.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Was yours there?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Mine was there too.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Then you're no more my friend:<br /> +And for your sake,—now mark me what I say,—<br /> +She shall not go.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Go to; you are a boy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> A boy! I'm glad I am not such a man,<br /> +Not such as thou, a traitor to thy brother;<br /> +Nay, more, thy friend: But friend's a sacred name,<br /> +Which none but brave and honest men should wear:<br /> +In thee 'tis vile; 'tis prostitute; 'tis air;<br /> +And thus, I puff it from me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Well, young man,<br /> +Since I'm no friend, (and, oh, that e'er I was,<br /> +To one so far unworthy!) bring her out;<br /> +Or, by our father's soul, of which no part<br /> +Did e'er descend to thee, I'll force her hence.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> I laugh at thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Thou dar'st not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> I dare more,<br /> +If urged beyond my temper: Prove my daring,<br /> +And see which of us has the larger share<br /> +Of our great father's soul.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> No more!—thou know'st me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">320</span><a id="page_320" name="page_320"></a> +<span class="cnm">Troil.</span> I do; and know myself.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> All this, ye gods!<br /> +And for the daughter of a fugitive,<br /> +A traitor to his country!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> 'Tis too much.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> By heaven, too little; for I think her common.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> How, common!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Common as the tainted shambles,<br /> +Or as the dust we tread.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> By heaven, as chaste as thy Andromache. +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Hector</span> lays his hand on <span class="cnm">Troilus's</span> arm, +<span class="cnm">Troilus</span> does the same to him.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> What, namest thou them together!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> No, I do not:<br /> +Fair Cressida is first; as chaste as she,<br /> +But much more fair.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> O, patience, patience, heaven!<br /> +Thou tempt'st me strangely: should I kill thee now,<br /> +I know not if the gods can he offended,<br /> +Or think I slew a brother: But, begone!<br /> +Begone, or I shall shake thee into atoms;<br /> +Thou know'st I can.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> I care not if you could.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> [<span class="sdm">walking off.</span>]<br /> +I thank the gods, for calling to my mind<br /> +My promise, that no words of thine should urge me<br /> +Beyond the bounds of reason: But in thee<br /> +'Twas brutal baseness, so forewarned, to fall<br /> +Beneath the name of man; to spurn my kindness;<br /> +And when I offered thee (thou know'st how loth!)<br /> +The wholesome bitter cup of friendly counsel,<br /> +To dash it in my face. Farewell, farewell,<br /> +Ungrateful as thou art: hereafter use<br /> +The name of brother; but of friend no more.<span class="sdr">[Going out.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">321</span><a id="page_321" name="page_321"></a> +<span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Wilt thou not break yet, heart?—stay, brother, stay;<br /> +I promised too, but I have broke my vow,<br /> +And you keep yours too well.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> What would'st thou more?<br /> +Take heed, young man, how you too far provoke me!<br /> +For heaven can witness, 'tis with much constraint<br /> +That I preserve my faith.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Else you would kill me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> By all the gods I would.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> I'm satisfied.<br /> +You have condemned me, and I'll do't myself.<br /> +What's life to him, who has no use of life?<br /> +A barren purchase, held upon hard terms!<br /> +For I have lost (oh, what have I not lost!)<br /> +The fairest, dearest, kindest, of her sex;<br /> +And lost her even by him, by him, ye gods!<br /> +Who only could, and only should protect me!<br /> +And if I had a joy beyond that love,<br /> +A friend, have lost him too!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Speak that again,—<br /> +For I could hear it ever,—saidst thou not,<br /> +That if thou hadst a joy beyond that love,<br /> +It was a friend? O, saidst thou not, a friend!<br /> +That doubting <i>if</i> was kind: then thou'rt divided;<br /> +And I have still some part.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> If still you have,<br /> +You do not care to have it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> How, not care!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> No, brother, care not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Am I but thy brother?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> You told me, I must call you friend no more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> How far my words were distant from my heart!<br /> +Know, when I told thee so, I loved thee most.<br /> +Alas! it is the use of human frailty,<br /> +To fly to worst extremities with those,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">322</span><a id="page_322" name="page_322"></a> +To whom we are most kind.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Is't possible!<br /> +Then you are still my friend.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Heaven knows I am!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> And can forgive the sallies of my passion?<br /> +For I have been to blame, oh! much to blame;<br /> +Have said such words, nay, done such actions too,<br /> +(Base as I am!) that my awed conscious soul<br /> +Sinks in my breast, nor dare I lift an eye<br /> +On him I have offended.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Peace be to thee,<br /> +And calmness ever there. I blame thee not:<br /> +I know thou lov'st; and what can love not do!<br /> +I cast the wild disorderly account,<br /> +Of all thy words and deeds, on that mad passion:<br /> +I pity thee, indeed I pity thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Do, for I need it: Let me lean my head<br /> +Upon thy bosom, all my peace dwells there;<br /> +Thou art some god, or much, much more than man!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Alas, to lose the joys of all thy youth,<br /> +One who deserved thy love!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Did she deserve?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> She did.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Then sure she was no common creature?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> I said it in my rage; I thought not so.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> That thought has blessed me! But to lose this love,<br /> +After long pains, and after short possession!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> I feel it for thee: Let me go to Priam,<br /> +I'll break this treaty off; or let me fight:<br /> +I'll be thy champion, and secure both her,<br /> +And thee, and Troy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> It must not be, my brother;<br /> +For then your error would be more than mine:<br /> +I'll bring her forth, and you shall bear her hence;<br /> +That you have pitied me is my reward.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Go, then; and the good gods restore her to thee,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">323</span><a id="page_323" name="page_323"></a> +And, with her, all the quiet of thy mind!<br /> +The triumph of this kindness be thy own;<br /> +<span class="i1"> And heaven and earth this testimony yield,</span><br /> +<span class="i1"> That friendship never gained a nobler field.</span> +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt severally.</span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT IV. SCENE I.</h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Pandarus</span> and <span class="cnm">Cressida</span> meeting.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Is't possible? no sooner got but lost?<br /> +The devil take Antenor! the young prince will go mad:<br /> +A plague upon Antenor! would they had broke his neck!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> How now? what's the matter? Who was here?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Oh, oh!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Why sigh you so? O, where's my Troilus?<br /> +Tell me, sweet uncle, what's the matter?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Would I were as deep under the earth, as<br /> +I am above it!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> O, the gods! What's the matter?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Pr'ythee get thee in; would thou hadst never been born!<br /> +I knew thou wouldst be his death; oh, poor gentleman!<br /> +A plague upon Antenor!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Good uncle, I beseech you on my knees, +tell me what's the matter?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Thou must be gone, girl; thou must be +gone, to the fugitive rogue-priest, thy father: (and +he's my brother too; but that's all one at this time:) +A pox upon Antenor!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> O, ye immortal gods! I will not go.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Thou must, thou must.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> I will not: I have quite forgot my father.<br /> +<span class="pgnm">324</span><a id="page_324" name="page_324"></a> +I have no touch of birth, no spark of nature,<br /> +No kin, no blood, no life; nothing so near me,<br /> +As my dear Troilus!</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Troilus.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Here, here, here he comes, sweet duck!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> O, Troilus, Troilus! +<span class="sdr">[They both weep over each other; she running +into his arms.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> What a pair of spectacles is here! let me +embrace too. <i>Oh, heart,</i>—as the saying is,—<br /> +<span class="i2"><i>—o heart, o heavy heart,</i></span><br /> +<span class="i2"><i>Why sigh'st thou without breaking!</i></span><br /> +Where he answers again,<br /> +<span class="i1"><i>Because thou can'st not ease thy smart,</i></span><br /> +<span class="i2"><i>By friendship nor by speaking.</i></span><br /> +There was never a truer rhyme: let us cast away +nothing, for we may live to have need of such a +verse; we see it, we see it.—How now, lambs?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Cressid, I love thee with so strange a purity,<br /> +That the blest gods, angry with my devotions,<br /> +More bright in zeal than that I pay their altars,<br /> +Will take thee from my sight.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Have the gods envy?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Ay, ay, ay; 'tis too plain a case!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> And is it true, that I must go from Troy?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> A hateful truth.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> What, and from Troilus too?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> From Troy and Troilus,—and suddenly;<br /> +So suddenly, 'tis counted out by minutes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> What, not an hour allowed for taking leave?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Even that's bereft us too: Our envious fates<br /> +Jostle betwixt, and part the dear adieus<br /> +Of meeting lips, clasped hands, and locked embraces.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æneas.</span> [<span class="sdm">Within.</span>] My lord, is the lady ready yet?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Hark, you are called!—Some say, the genius so<br /> +<span class="pgnm">325</span><a id="page_325" name="page_325"></a> +Cries,—Come, to him who instantly must die.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Where are my tears? some rain to lay this wind,<br /> +Or my heart will be blown up by the roots!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Hear me, my love! be thou but true, like me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> I true! how now, what wicked thought is this?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Nay, we must use expostulation kindly,<br /> +For it is parting from us.<br /> +I spoke not, be thou true, as fearing thee;<br /> +But be thou true, I said, to introduce<br /> +My following protestation,—be thou true,<br /> +And I will see thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> You'll be exposed to dangers.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> I care not; but be true.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Be true, again?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Hear why I speak it, love.<br /> +The Grecian youths are full of Grecian arts:<br /> +Alas! a kind of holy jealousy,<br /> +Which, I beseech you, call a virtuous sin,<br /> +Makes me afraid how far you may be tempted.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> O heavens, you love me not!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Die I a villain then!<br /> +In this I do not call your faith in question,<br /> +But my own merit.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Fear not; I'll be true.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Then, fate, thy worst! for I will see thee, love;<br /> +Not all the Grecian host shall keep me out,<br /> +Nor Troy, though walled with fire, should hold me in.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æneas.</span> [<i>Within.</i>] My lord, my lord Troilus! I +must call you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> A mischief call him! nothing but screech-owls? +do, do, call again; you had best part them now +in the sweetness of their love!—I'll be hanged if this +Æneas be the son of Venus, for all his bragging. +Honest Venus was a punk; would she have parted +<span class="pgnm">326</span><a id="page_326" name="page_326"></a> +lovers? no, he has not a drop of Venus' blood in +him—honest Venus was a punk.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> [<span class="sdm">To Pand.</span>] Pr'ythee, go out, and gain one<br /> +minute more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Marry and I will: follow you your business; +lose no time, 'tis very precious; go, bill again: +I'll tell the rogue his own, I warrant him.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Pandarus.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> What have we gained by this one minute more?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Only to wish another, and another,<br /> +A longer struggling with the pangs of death.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> O, those, who do not know what parting is,<br /> +Can never learn to die!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> When I but think this sight may be our last,<br /> +If Jove could set me in the place of Atlas,<br /> +And lay the weight of heaven and gods upon me,<br /> +He could not press me more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Oh let me go, that I may know my grief;<br /> +Grief is but guessed, while thou art standing by:<br /> +But I too soon shall know what absence is.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Why, 'tis to be no more; another name for death:<br /> +'Tis the sun parting from the frozen north;<br /> +And I, methinks, stand on some icy cliff,<br /> +To watch the last low circles that he makes,<br /> +'Till he sink down from heaven! O only Cressida,<br /> +If thou depart from me, I cannot live:<br /> +I have not soul enough to last for grief,<br /> +But thou shalt hear what grief has done with me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> If I could live to hear it, I were false.<br /> +But, as a careful traveller, who, fearing<br /> +Assaults of robbers, leaves his wealth behind,<br /> +I trust my heart with thee; and to the Greeks<br /> +Bear but an empty casket.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Then I will live, that I may keep that treasure;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">327</span><a id="page_327" name="page_327"></a> +And, armed with this assurance, let thee go,<br /> +Loose, yet secure as is the gentle hawk,<br /> +When, whistled off, she mounts into the wind.<br /> +Our love's like mountains high above the clouds;<br /> +Though winds and tempests beat their aged feet,<br /> +Their peaceful heads nor storm nor thunder know,<br /> +But scorn the threatening rack that rolls below.<span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span></p> + + +<h4 class="scn">SCENE II.</h4> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="cnm">Achilles</span> and <span class="cnm">Patroclus</span> standing in their tent.—<span class="cnm">Ulysses +Agamemnon, Menelaus, Nestor,</span> +and <span class="cnm">Ajax,</span> passing over the stage.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Achilles stands i' the entrance of his tent:<br /> +Please it our general to pass strangely by him,<br /> +As if he were forgot; and, princes all,<br /> +Look on him with neglectful eyes and scorn:<br /> +Pride must be cured by pride.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> We'll execute your purpose, and put on<br /> +A form of strangeness as we pass along;<br /> +So do each prince; either salute him not,<br /> +Or else disdainfully, which will shake him more<br /> +Than if not looked on. I will lead the way.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> What, comes the general to speak with me?<br /> +You know my mind; I'll fight no more with Troy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> What says Achilles? would he aught with us?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> Would you, my lord, aught with the general?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> No.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> Nothing, my lord.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> The better.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Menel.</span> How do you, how do you?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> What, does the cuckold scorn me!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> How now, Patroclus?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Good morrow, Ajax.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Ha!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">328</span><a id="page_328" name="page_328"></a> +<span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Good morrow.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Ay; and good next day too. +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt all but <span class="cnm">Achilles</span> and <span class="cnm">Patroclus.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> What mean these fellows? know they not Achilles?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> They pass by strangely; they were used to bow,<br /> +And send their smiles before them to Achilles;<br /> +To come as humbly as they used to creep<br /> +To holy altars.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Am I poor of late?<br /> +'Tis certain, greatness, once fallen out with fortune,<br /> +Must fall out with men too: what the declined is,<br /> +He shall as soon read in the eyes of others,<br /> +As feel in his own fall; for men, like butterflies,<br /> +Show not their mealy wings but to the summer.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> 'Tis known you are in love with Hector's sister,<br /> +And therefore will not fight; and your not fighting<br /> +Draws on you this contempt. I oft have told you,<br /> +A woman, impudent and mannish grown,<br /> +Is not more loathed than an effeminate man,<br /> +In time of action: I am condemned for this:<br /> +They think my little appetite to war<br /> +Deads all the fire in you; but rouse yourself,<br /> +And love shall from your neck unloose his folds;<br /> +Or, like a dew-drop from a lion's mane,<br /> +Be shaken into air.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Shall Ajax fight with Hector?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> Yes, and perhaps shall gain much honour by him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> I see my reputation is at stake.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> O then beware; those wounds heal ill, that men<br /> +Have given themselves, because they give them deepest.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> I'll do something;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">329</span><a id="page_329" name="page_329"></a> +But what I know not yet.—No more; our champion.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Re-enter <span class="cnm">Ajax, Agamemnon, Menelaus, Ulysses, +Nestor, Diomede,</span> Trumpet.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> Here art thou, daring combat, valiant Ajax.<br /> +Give, with thy trumpet, a loud note to Troy,<br /> +Thou noble champion, that the sounding air<br /> +May pierce the ears of the great challenger,<br /> +And call him hither.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Trumpet, take that purse:<br /> +Now crack thy lungs, and split the sounding brass;<br /> +Thou blow'st for Hector. +<span class="sdr">[Trumpet sounds, and is answered from within.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Hector, Æneas,</span> and other Trojans.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> Yonder comes the troop.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> [<span class="sdm">Coming to the Greeks.</span>]<br /> +Health to the Grecian lords:—What shall be done<br /> +To him that shall be vanquished? or do you purpose<br /> +A victor should be known? will you, the knights<br /> +Shall to the edge of all extremity<br /> +Pursue each other, or shall be divided<br /> +By any voice or order of the field?<br /> +Hector bade ask.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> Which way would Hector have it?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> He cares not, he'll obey conditions.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> 'Tis done like Hector, but securely done;<br /> +A little proudly, and too much despising<br /> +The knight opposed; he might have found his match.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> If not Achilles, sir, what is your name?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> If not Achilles, nothing.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> Therefore Achilles; but whoe'er, know this;<br /> +Great Hector knows no pride: weigh him but well,<br /> +And that, which looks like pride, is courtesy.<br /> +This Ajax is half made of Hector's blood,<br /> +In love whereof half Hector stays at home.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> A maiden battle? I perceive you then.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">330</span><a id="page_330" name="page_330"></a> +<span class="cnm">Agam.</span> Go, Diomede, and stand by valiant Ajax;<br /> +As you and lord Æneas shall consent,<br /> +So let the fight proceed, or terminate. +<span class="sdr">[The trumpets sound on both sides, while <span class="cnm">Æneas</span> +and <span class="cnm">Diomede</span> take their places, as Judges of +the field. The Trojans and Grecians rank +themselves on either side.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> They are opposed already. +<span class="sdr">[Fight equal at first, then <span class="cnm">Ajax</span> has <span class="cnm">Hector</span> +at disadvantage; at last <span class="cnm">Hector</span> closes, <span class="cnm">Ajax</span> +falls on one knee, <span class="cnm">Hector</span> stands over him, but +strikes not, and <span class="cnm">Ajax</span> rises.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> [<span class="sdm">Throwing his gauntlet betwixt them.</span>]<br /> +Princes, enough; you have both shown much valour.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> And we, as judges of the field, declare,<br /> +The combat here shall cease.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax,</span> I am not warm yet, let us fight again.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> Then let it be as Hector shall determine.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> If it be left to me, I will no more.—<br /> +Ajax, thou art my aunt Hesione's son;<br /> +The obligation of our blood forbids us.<br /> +But, were thy mixture Greek and Trojan so,<br /> +That thou couldst say, this part is Grecian all,<br /> +And this is Trojan,—hence thou shouldst not bear<br /> +One Grecian limb, wherein my pointed sword<br /> +Had not impression made. But heaven forbid<br /> +That any drop, thou borrowest from my mother,<br /> +Should e'er be drained by me: let me embrace thee, cousin.<br /> +By him who thunders, thou hast sinewy arms:<br /> +Hector would have them fall upon him thus:—<span class="sdr">[Embrace.</span><br /> +Thine be the honour, Ajax.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> I thank thee, Hector;<br /> +Thou art too gentle, and too free a man.<br /> +I came to kill thee, cousin, and to gain<br /> +A great addition from that glorious act:<br /> +<span class="pgnm">331</span><a id="page_331" name="page_331"></a> +But thou hast quite disarmed me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> I am glad;<br /> +For 'tis the only way I could disarm thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> If I might in intreaty find success,<br /> +I would desire to see thee at my tent.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> 'Tis Agamemnon's wish, and great Achilles;<br /> +Both long to see the valiant Hector there.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Æneas, call my brother Troilus to me;<br /> +And you two sign this friendly interview. +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Agamemnon,</span> and the chief of both +sides approach.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> [<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Hect.</span></span>] +Worthy of arms, as welcome as to one,<br /> +Who would be rid of such an enemy.—<br /> +[<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Troil.</span></span>] My well-famed lord of Troy, no less to you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> I have, thou gallant Trojan, seen thee often,<br /> +Labouring for destiny, make cruel way<br /> +Through ranks of Grecian youth; and I have seen thee<br /> +As swift as lightning spur thy Phrygian steed,<br /> +And seen thee scorning many forfeit lives,<br /> +When thou hast hung thy advanced sword i' th' air,<br /> +Not letting it decline on prostrate foes;<br /> +That I have said to all the standers-by,<br /> +Lo, Jove is yonder, distributing life.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Let me embrace thee, good old chronicle,<br /> +Who hast so long walked hand in hand with time:<br /> +Most reverend Nestor, I am glad to clasp thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> I wonder now, how yonder city stands,<br /> +When we have here her base and pillar by us.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> I know your count'nance, lord Ulysses, well.<br /> +Ah, sir, there's many a Greek and Trojan dead,<br /> +Since first I saw yourself and Diomede<br /> +In Ilion, on your Greekish embassy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Now, Hector, I have fed mine eyes on thee;<br /> +I have with exact view perused thee, Hector,<br /> +And quoted joint by joint.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Is this Achilles?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">332</span><a id="page_332" name="page_332"></a> +<span class="cnm">Achil.</span> I am Achilles.<br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Stand fair, I pr'ythee, let me look on thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Behold thy fill.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Nay, I have done already.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Thou art too brief. I will, the second time,<br /> +As I would buy thee, view thee limb by limb.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> O, like a book of sport, thou read'st me o'er;<br /> +But there's more in me than thou understand'st.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Tell me, ye heavens, in which part of his body<br /> +Shall I destroy him? there, or there, or there?<br /> +That I may give the imagined wound a name,<br /> +And make distinct the very breach, whereout<br /> +Hector's great spirit flew! answer me, heavens!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Wert thou an oracle to tell me this,<br /> +I'd not believe thee; henceforth guard thee well,<br /> +I'll kill thee every where.<br /> +Ye noble Grecians, pardon me this boast;<br /> +His insolence draws folly from my lips;<br /> +But I'll endeavour deeds to match these words,<br /> +Else may I never—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Do not chafe thee, cousin;—<br /> +And you, Achilles, let these threats alone;<br /> +You may have every day enough of Hector,<br /> +If you have stomach; the general state, I fear,<br /> +Can scarce intreat you to perform your boast.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> I pray you, let us see you in the field;<br /> +We have had pelting wars, since you refused<br /> +The Grecian cause.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Do'st thou entreat me, Hector?<br /> +To-morrow will I meet thee, fierce as death;<br /> +To-night, all peace.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Thy hand upon that match.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> First, all you Grecian princes, go with me,<br /> +And entertain great Hector; afterwards,<br /> +As his own leisure shall concur with yours,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">333</span><a id="page_333" name="page_333"></a> +You may invite him to your several tents. +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Agam. Hect. Menel. Nest. Diom.</span> +together.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> My lord Ulysses, tell me, I beseech you,<br /> +In what part of the field does Calchas lodge?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> At Menelaus' tent:<br /> +There Diomede does feast with him to-night;<br /> +Who neither looks on heaven or on earth,<br /> +But gives all gaze and bent of amorous view<br /> +On Cressida alone.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Shall I, brave lord, be bound to you so much,<br /> +After we part from Agamemnon's tent,<br /> +To bring me thither?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> I shall wait on you.<br /> +As freely tell me, of what honour was<br /> +This Cressida in Troy? had she no lovers there,<br /> +Who mourn her absence?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> O sir, to such as boasting show their scars,<br /> +Reproof is due: she loved and was beloved;<br /> +That's all I must impart. Lead on, my lord. +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Ulysses</span> and <span class="cnm">Troilus.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil</span> [<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Patro.</span></span>] +I'll heat his blood with Greekish wine to-night,<br /> +Which with my sword I mean to cool to-morrow.<br /> +Patroclus, let us feast him to the height.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Thersites.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> Here comes Thersites.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> How now, thou core of envy,<br /> +Thou crusty batch of nature, what's the news?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Why, thou picture of what thou seemest, +thou idol of ideot worshippers, there's a letter for +thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> From whence, fragment?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Why, thou full dish of fool, from Troy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> Well said, adversity! what makes thee so +keen to-day?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">334</span><a id="page_334" name="page_334"></a> +<span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Because a fool's my whetstone.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Patro.</span> Meaning me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Yes, meaning thy no meaning; pr'ythee, +be silent, boy, I profit not by thy talk. Now the +rotten diseases of the south, gut-gripings, ruptures, +catarrhs, loads of gravel in the back, lethargies, +cold palsies, and the like, take thee, and take thee +again! thou green sarcenet flap for a sore eye, thou +tassel of a prodigal's purse, thou! Ah how the poor +world is pestered with such water-flies, such diminutives +of nature!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> My dear Patroclus, I am quite prevented<br /> +From my great purpose, bent on Hector's life.<br /> +Here is a letter from my love Polyxena,<br /> +Both taxing and engaging me to keep<br /> +An oath that I have sworn; and will not break it<br /> +To save all Greece. Let honour go or stay,<br /> +There's more religion in my love than fame. +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Achilles</span> and <span class="cnm">Patroclus.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> With too much blood, and too little brain, +these two are running mad before the dog-days. +There's Agamemnon, too, an honest fellow enough, +and loves a brimmer heartily; but he has not so +much brains as an old gander. But his brother +Menelaus, there's a fellow! the goodly transformation +of Jupiter when he loved Europa; the primitive +cuckold; a vile monkey tied eternally to his +brother's tail,—to be a dog, a mule, a cat, a toad, +an owl, a lizard, a herring without a roe, I would +not care; but to be Menelaus, I would conspire +against destiny.—Hey day! Will with a Wisp, and +Jack a Lanthorn!</p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="cnm">Hector, Ajax, Agamemnon, Diomede, Ulysses, +Troilus,</span> going with Torches over the Stage.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> We go wrong, we go wrong.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">335</span><a id="page_335" name="page_335"></a> +<span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> No, yonder 'tis; there, where we see the +light.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> I trouble you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Not at all, cousin; here comes Achilles +himself, to guide us.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Achilles.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Welcome, brave Hector; welcome, princes +all.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> So now, brave prince of Troy, I take my +leave; Ajax commands the guard to wait on you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Men.</span> Good night, my lord.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Good night, sweet lord Menelaus.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Sweet, quotha! Sweet sink, sweet +sewer, sweet jakes!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Nestor will stay; and you, lord Diomede,<br /> +Keep Hector company an hour or two.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> I cannot, sir; I have important business.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Enter, my lords.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> [<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Troil.</span></span>] Follow his torch: he goes to +Calchas's tent.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Achil. Hect. Ajax,</span> one way; <span class="cnm">Diomede</span> +another; and after him <span class="cnm">Ulysses</span> +and <span class="cnm">Troilus.</span></span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> This Diomede's a false-hearted rogue, an +unjust knave; I will no more trust him when he +winks with one eye, than I will a serpent when he +hisses. He will spend his mouth, and promise, like +Brabbler the hound; but when he performs, astronomers +set it down for a prodigy: though I long to +see Hector, I cannot forbear dogging him. They +say he keeps a Trojan drab; and uses Calchas's tent, +that fugitive priest of Troy, that canonical rogue of +our side. I'll after him; nothing but whoring in +this age; all incontinent rascals!<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Thersites.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="pgnm">336</span><a id="page_336" name="page_336"></a> +Enter <span class="cnm">Calchas</span> and <span class="cnm">Cressida.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Calch.</span> O, what a blessing is a virtuous child!<br /> +Thou has reclaimed my mind, and calmed my passions<br /> +Of anger and revenge; my love to Troy<br /> +Revives within me, and my lost tiara<br /> +No more disturbs my mind.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> A virtuous conquest!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Calch.</span> I have a woman's longing to return;<br /> +But yet which way, without your aid, I know not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Time must instruct us how.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Calch.</span> You must dissemble love to Diomede still:<br /> +False Diomede, bred in Ulysses' school,<br /> +Can never be deceived,<br /> +But by strong arts and blandishments of love.<br /> +Put them in practice all; seem lost and won,<br /> +And draw him on, and give him line again.<br /> +This Argus then may close his hundred eyes,<br /> +And leave our flight more easy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> How can I answer this to love and Troilus?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Calch.</span> Why, 'tis for him you do it; promise largely;<br /> +That ring he saw you wear, he much suspects<br /> +Was given you by a lover; let him have it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> [<span class="sdm">Within.</span>] Ho, Calchas, Calchas!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Calch.</span> Hark! I hear his voice.<br /> +Pursue your project; doubt not the success.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Heaven knows, against my will; and yet my hopes,<br /> +This night to meet my Troilus, while 'tis truce,<br /> +Afford my mind some ease.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Calch.</span> No more: retire.<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Cressida.</span></span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Diomede: Troilus</span> and <span class="cnm">Ulysses</span> appear listening +at one Door, and <span class="cnm">Thersites</span> watching at +another.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> I came to see your daughter, worthy Calchas.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">337</span><a id="page_337" name="page_337"></a> +<span class="cnm">Calch.</span> My lord, I'll call her to you.<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Calchas.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> [<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Troil.</span></span>] Stand where the torch may not +discover us.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Cressida.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Cressida comes forth to him!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> How now, my charge?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Now, my sweet guardian; hark, a word +with you.<span class="sdr">[Whisper.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Ay, so familiar!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> Will you remember?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Remember? yes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Heavens, what should she remember! Plague +and madness!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Prince, you are moved: let us depart in time,<br /> +Lest your displeasure should enlarge itself<br /> +To wrathful terms: this place is dangerous;<br /> +The time unlit: beseech you, let us go.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> I pray you stay; by hell, and by hell's torments, +I will not speak a word.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> I'll hear no more: good night.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Nay, but you part in anger!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Does that grieve thee? O withered truth!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> Farewell, cozener.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Indeed I am not: pray, come back again.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> You shake, my lord, at something: will you go?<br /> +You will break out.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> By all the gods I will not.<br /> +There is, between my will and all my actions,<br /> +A guard of patience: stay a little while.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> [<span class="sdm">aside.</span>] How the devil luxury, with his fat +rump, and potato-finger, tickles these together!—Put +him off a little, you foolish harlot! 'twill sharpen +him the more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> But will you then?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">338</span><a id="page_338" name="page_338"></a> +<span class="cnm">Cres.</span> I will, as soon as e'er the war's concluded.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom</span> Give me some token, for the surety of it;<br /> +The ring I saw you wear.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> [<span class="sdm">Giving it.</span>] If you must have it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> The ring? nay, then, 'tis plain! O beauty, +where's thy faith!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> You have sworn patience.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> That's well, that's well, the pledge is +given; hold her to her word, good devil, and her +soul's thine, I warrant thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> Whose was't?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> By all Diana's waiting train of stars,<br /> +And by herself, I will not tell you whose.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> Why then thou lov'st him still: farewell for ever:<br /> +Thou never shalt mock Diomede again.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> You shall not go: one cannot speak a word,<br /> +But straight it starts you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> I do not like this fooling.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Nor I, by Pluto: but that, which likes not +you, pleases me best.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> I shall expect your promise.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> I'll perform it.<br /> +Not a word more, good night—I hope for ever:<br /> +Thus to deceive deceivers is no fraud.<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Diomede</span> and <span class="cnm">Cressida</span> severally.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> All's done, my lord.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil</span> Is it?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Pray let us go.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Was Cressida here?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> I cannot conjure, Trojan.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> She was not, sure! she was not;<br /> +Let it not be believed, for womanhood:<br /> +Think we had mothers, do not give advantage<br /> +To biting satire, apt without a theme<br /> +For defamation, to square all the sex<br /> +By Cressid's rule; rather think this not Cressida.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">339</span><a id="page_339" name="page_339"></a> +<span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Will he swagger himself out on's own eyes?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> This she! no, this was Diomede's Cressida.<br /> +If beauty have a soul, this is not she:—<br /> +I cannot speak for rage;—that ring was mine:—<br /> +By heaven I gave it, in that point of time,<br /> +When both our joys were fullest!—If he keeps it,<br /> +Let dogs eat Troilus.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> He'll tickle it for his concupy: this will +be sport to see! Patroclus will give me any thing +for the intelligence of this whore; a parrot will +not do more for an almond, than he will for a +commodious drab:—I would I could meet with this +rogue Diomede too: I would croak like a raven to +him; I would bode: it shall go hard but I'll find +him out.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Thersites.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Æneas.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> I have been seeking you this hour, my lord:<br /> +Hector by this is arming him in Troy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Commend me, gallant Troilus, to your brother:<br /> +Tell him, I hope he shall not need to arm;<br /> +The fair Polyxena has, by a letter,<br /> +Disarmed our great Achilles of his rage.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> This I shall say to Hector.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> So I hope.<br /> +Pray heaven Thersites have informed me true!—<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Good night, my lord; accept distracted thanks! +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Ulysses.</span></span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Pandarus.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> Hear ye, my lord, hear ye; I have been +seeing yon poor girl. There have been old doings +there, i'faith.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> [<i>Aside.</i>] +Hold yet, my spirits: let him pour it in:<br /> +<span class="pgnm">340</span><a id="page_340" name="page_340"></a> +The poison's kind: the more I drink of it,<br /> +The sooner 'twill dispatch me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> to <i>Pand.</i> Peace, thou babbler!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> She has been mightily made on by the +Greeks: she takes most wonderfully among 'em. +Achilles kissed her, and Patroclus kissed her: nay, +and old Nestor put aside his grey beard, and brushed +her with his whiskers. Then comes me Agamemnon +with his general's staff, diving with a low bow +even to the ground, and rising again, just at her +lips: and after him came Ulysses, and Ajax, and +Menelaus: and they so pelted her, i'faith, pitter +patter, pitter patter, as thick as hail-stones. And +after that, a whole rout of 'em: never was a woman +in Phrygia better kissed.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Hector said true: I find, I find it +now!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> And, last of all, comes me Diomede, so demurely: +that's a notable sly rogue, I warrant him! +mercy upon us, how he laid her on upon the lips! +for, as I told you, she's most mightily made on +among the Greeks. What, cheer up, I say, man! +she has every one's good word. I think, in my +conscience, she was born with a caul upon her +head.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Hell, death, confusion, how he tortures +me!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> And that rogue-priest, my brother, is so +courted and treated for her sake: the young sparks +do so pull him about, and haul him by the cassock: +nothing but invitations to his tent, and his tent, +and his tent. Nay, and one of 'em was so bold, as +to ask him, if she were a virgin; and with that, the +rogue, my brother, takes me up a little god in his +hand, and kisses it, and swears devoutly that she +was; then was I ready to burst my sides with +laughing, to think what had passed betwixt you two.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">341</span><a id="page_341" name="page_341"></a> +<span class="cnm">Troil.</span> O I can bear no more! she's falsehood all:<br /> +False by both kinds; for with her mother's milk<br /> +She sucked the infusion of her father's soul.<br /> +She only wants an opportunity;<br /> +Her soul's a whore already.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> What, would you make a monopoly of a +woman's lips? a little consolation, or so, might be +allowed, one would think, in a lover's absence.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Hence from my sight!<br /> +Let ignominy brand thy hated name;<br /> +Let modest matrons at thy mention start;<br /> +And blushing virgins, when they read our annals,<br /> +Skip o'er the guilty page that holds thy legend,<br /> +And blots the noble work.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pand.</span> O world, world: thou art an ungrateful +patch of earth! Thus the poor agent is despised! +he labours painfully in his calling, and trudges between +parties: but when their turns are served, come +out's too good for him. I am mighty melancholy. +I'll e'en go home, and shut up my doors, and die +o' the sullens, like an old bird in a cage!<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Pandarus.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Diomede</span> and <span class="cnm">Thersites.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] There, there he is; now let it +work: now play thy part, jealousy, and twinge 'em: +put 'em between thy mill-stones, and grind the +rogues together.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> My lord, I am by Ajax sent to inform you,<br /> +This hour must end the truce.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> to <i>Troil.</i> Contain yourself:<br /> +Think where we are.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> Your stay will be unsafe.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> It may, for those I hate.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Well said, Trojan: there's the first +hit.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">342</span><a id="page_342" name="page_342"></a> +<span class="cnm">Diom.</span> Beseech you, sir, make haste; my own affairs +call me another way.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] What affairs? what affairs? demand +that, dolt-head! the rogue will lose a quarrel, +for want of wit to ask that question.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> May I enquire where your affairs conduct you?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Well said again; I beg thy pardon.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> Oh, it concerns you not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Perhaps it does.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> You are too inquisitive: nor am I bound<br /> +To satisfy an enemy's request.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> You have a ring upon your finger, Diomede,<br /> +And given you by a lady.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> If it were,<br /> +'Twas given to one that can defend her gift.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] So, so; the boars begin to gruntle +at one another: set up your bristles now, a'both +sides: whet and foam, rogues.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> You must restore it, Greek, by heaven you must;<br /> +No spoil of mine shall grace a traitor's hand:<br /> +And, with it, give me back the broken vows<br /> +Of my false fair; which, perjured as she is,<br /> +I never will resign, but with my soul.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> Then thou, it seems, art that forsaken fool,<br /> +Who, wanting merit to preserve her heart,<br /> +Repines in vain to see it better placed;<br /> +But know, (for now I take a pride to grieve thee)<br /> +Thou art so lost a thing in her esteem,<br /> +I never heard thee named, but some scorn followed:<br /> +Thou wert our table-talk for laughing meals;<br /> +Thy name our sportful theme for evening-walks,<br /> +And intermissive hours of cooler love,<br /> +When hand in hand we went.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Hell and furies!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] O well stung, scorpion! +<span class="pgnm">343</span><a id="page_343" name="page_343"></a> +Now Menelaus's Greek horns are out o' doors, +there's a new cuckold starts up on the Trojan side.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Yet this was she, ye gods, that very she,<br /> +Who in my arms lay melting all the night;<br /> +Who kissed and sighed, and sighed and kissed again,<br /> +As if her soul flew upward to her lips,<br /> +To meet mine there, and panted at the passage;<br /> +Who, loth to find the breaking day, looked out,<br /> +And shrunk into my bosom, there to make<br /> +A little longer darkness.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> Plagues and tortures!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Good, good, by Pluto! their fool's mad, to +lose his harlot; and our fool's mad, that t'other fool +had her first. If I sought peace now, I could tell +'em there's punk enough to satisfy 'em both: whore +sufficient! but let 'em worry one another, the foolish +curs; they think they never can have enough +of carrion.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> My lords, this fury is not proper here<br /> +In time of truce; if either side be injured,<br /> +To-morrow's sun will rise apace, and then—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> And then! but why should I defer till then?<br /> +My blood calls now, there is no truce for traitors;<br /> +My vengeance rolls within my breast; it must,<br /> +It will have vent,—<span class="sdr">[Draws.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> Hinder us not, Æneas,<br /> +My blood rides high as his; I trust thy honour,<br /> +And know thou art too brave a foe to break it.—<span class="sdr">[Draws.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Now, moon! now shine, sweet moon! let +them have just light enough to make their passes; +and not enough to ward them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Æn.</span> [<i>Drawing too.</i>]<br /> +By heaven, he comes on this, who strikes the first.<br /> +You both are mad; is this like gallant men,<br /> +To fight at midnight; at the murderer's hour;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">344</span><a id="page_344" name="page_344"></a> +When only guilt and rapine draw a sword?<br /> +Let night enjoy her dues of soft repose;<br /> +But let the sun behold the brave man's courage.<br /> +And this I dare engage for Diomede,—<br /> +For though I am,—he shall not hide his head,<br /> +But meet you in the very face of danger.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> [<i>Putting up.</i>]<br /> +Be't so; and were it on some precipice,<br /> +High as Olympus, and a sea beneath,<br /> +Call when thou dar'st, just on the sharpest point<br /> +I'll meet, and tumble with thee to destruction.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> A gnawing conscience haunts not guilty men,<br /> +As I'll haunt thee, to summon thee to this;<br /> +Nay, shouldst thou take the Stygian lake for refuge,<br /> +I'll plunge in after, through the boiling flames,<br /> +To push thee hissing down the vast abyss.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> Where shall we meet?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Before the tent of Calchas.<br /> +Thither, through all your troops, I'll fight my way;<br /> +And in the sight of perjured Cressida,<br /> +Give death to her through thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> 'Tis largely promised;<br /> +But I disdain to answer with a boast.<br /> +Be sure thou shalt be met.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> And thou be found. +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Troilus</span> and <span class="cnm">Æneas</span> one way; <span class="cnm">Diomede</span> +the other.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Now the furies take Æneas, for letting +them sleep upon their quarrel; who knows but rest +may cool their brains, and make them rise maukish +to mischief upon consideration? May each of them +dream he sees his cockatrice in t'other's arms; and +be stabbing one another in their sleep, to remember +them of their business when they wake: let them +be punctual to the point of honour; and, if it were +possible, let both be first at the place of execution; +<span class="pgnm">345</span><a id="page_345" name="page_345"></a> +let neither of them have cogitation enough, to +consider 'tis a whore they fight for; and let them +value their lives at as little as they are worth: and +lastly, let no succeeding fools take warning by them; +but, in imitation of them, when a strumpet is in +question,<br /> +<span class="i1">Let them beneath their feet all reason trample,</span><br /> +<span class="i1">And think it great to perish by example.</span><span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT V. SCENE I.</h4> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="cnm">Hector,</span> Trojans, <span class="cnm">Andromache.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> The blue mists rise from off the nether grounds,<br /> +And the sun mounts apace. To arms, to arms!<br /> +I am resolved to put to the utmost proof<br /> +The fate of Troy this day.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andr.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Oh wretched woman, oh!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Methought I heard you sigh, Andromache.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andr.</span> Did you, my lord?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Did you, my lord? you answer indirectly;<br /> +Just when I said, that I would put our fate<br /> +Upon the extremest proof, you fetched a groan;<br /> +And, as you checked yourself for what you did,<br /> +You stifled it and stopt. Come, you are sad.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andr.</span> The gods forbid!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> What should the gods forbid?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andr.</span> That I should give you cause of just offence.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> You say well; but you look not chearfully.<br /> +I mean this day to waste the stock of war,<br /> +And lay it prodigally out in blows.<br /> +Come, gird my sword, and smile upon me, love;<br /> +Like victory, come flying to my arms,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">346</span><a id="page_346" name="page_346"></a> +And give me earnest of desired success.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andr.</span> The gods protect you, and restore you to me!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> What, grown a coward! Thou wert used, Andromache,<br /> +To give my courage courage; thou would'st cry,—<br /> +Go Hector, day grows old, and part of fame<br /> +Is ravished from thee by thy slothful stay.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andr.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] +What shall I do to seem the same I was?—<br /> +Come, let me gird thy fortune to thy side,<br /> +And conquest sit as close and sure as this. +<span class="sdr">[She goes to gird his sword, and it falls.</span><br /> +Now mercy, heaven! the gods avert this omen!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> A foolish omen! take it up again,<br /> +And mend thy error.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andr.</span> I cannot, for my hand obeys me not;<br /> +But, as in slumbers, when we fain would run<br /> +From our imagined fears, our idle feet<br /> +Grow to the ground, our struggling voice dies inward;<br /> +So now, when I would force myself to chear you,<br /> +My faltering tongue can give no glad presage:<br /> +Alas, I am no more Andromache.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Why then thy former soul is flown to me;<br /> +For I, methinks, am lifted into air,<br /> +As if my mind, mastering my mortal part,<br /> +Would bear my exalted body to the gods.<br /> +Last night I dreamt Jove sat on Ida's top,<br /> +And, beckoning with his hand divine from far,<br /> +He pointed to a choir of demi-gods,<br /> +Bacchus and Hercules, and all the rest,<br /> +Who, free from human toils, had gained the pitch<br /> +Of blest eternity;—Lo there, he said,<br /> +Lo there's a place for Hector.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andr.</span> Be to thy enemies this boding dream!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Why, it portends me honour and renown.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">347</span><a id="page_347" name="page_347"></a> +<span class="cnm">Andr.</span> Such honour as the brave gain after death;<br /> +For I have dreamt all night of horrid slaughters,<br /> +Of trampling horses, and of chariot wheels<br /> +Wading in blood up to their axle-trees;<br /> +Of fiery demons gliding down the skies,<br /> +And Ilium brightened with a midnight blaze:<br /> +O therefore, if thou lovest me, go not forth.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Go to thy bed again, and there dream better.—<br /> +Ho! bid my trumpet sound.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andr.</span> No notes of sally, for the heaven's sweet sake!<br /> +'Tis not for nothing when my spirits droop;<br /> +This is a day when thy ill stars are strong,<br /> +When they have driven thy helpless genius down<br /> +The steep of heaven, to some obscure retreat.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> No more; even as thou lovest my fame, no more;<br /> +My honour stands engaged to meet Achilles.<br /> +What will the Grecians think, or what will he,<br /> +Or what will Troy, or what wilt thou thyself,<br /> +When once this ague fit of fear is o'er,<br /> +If I should lose my honour for a dream?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andr.</span> Your enemies too well your courage know,<br /> +And heaven abhors the forfeit of rash vows,<br /> +Like spotted livers in a sacrifice.<br /> +I cannot, O I dare not let you go;<br /> +For, when you leave me, my presaging mind<br /> +Says, I shall never, never see you more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Thou excellently good, but oh too soft,<br /> +Let me not 'scape the danger of this day;<br /> +But I have struggling in my manly soul,<br /> +To see those modest tears, ashamed to fall,<br /> +And witness any part of woman in thee!<br /> +And now I fear, lest thou shouldst think it fear,<br /> +If, thus dissuaded, I refuse to fight,<br /> +And stay inglorious in thy arms at home.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andr.</span> Oh, could I have that thought, I should not love thee;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">348</span><a id="page_348" name="page_348"></a> +Thy soul is proof to all things but to kindness;<br /> +And therefore 'twas that I forbore to tell thee,<br /> +How mad Cassandra, full of prophecy,<br /> +Ran round the streets, and, like a Bacchanal,<br /> +Cried,—Hold him, Priam, 'tis an ominous day;<br /> +Let him not go, for Hector is no more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Our life is short, but to extend that span<br /> +To vast eternity, is virtue's work;<br /> +Therefore to thee, and not to fear of fate,<br /> +Which once must come to all, give I this day.<br /> +But see thou move no more the like request;<br /> +For rest assured, that, to regain this hour,<br /> +To-morrow will I tempt a double danger.<br /> +Mean time, let destiny attend thy leisure;<br /> +I reckon this one day a blank of life.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Troilus.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Where are you, brother? now, in honour's name,<br /> +What do you mean to be thus long unarmed?<br /> +The embattled soldiers throng about the gates;<br /> +The matrons to the turrets' tops ascend,<br /> +Holding their helpless children in their arms,<br /> +To make you early known to their young eyes,<br /> +And Hector is the universal shout.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Bid all unarm; I will not fight to-day.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Employ some coward to bear back this news,<br /> +And let the children hoot him for his pains.<br /> +By all the gods, and by my just revenge,<br /> +This sun shall shine the last for them or us;<br /> +These noisy streets, or yonder echoing plains,<br /> +Shall be to-morrow silent as the grave.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andr.</span> O brother, do not urge a brother's fate,<br /> +But, let this wreck of heaven and earth roll o'er,<br /> +And, when the storm is past, put out to sea.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> O now I know from whence his change proceeds;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">349</span><a id="page_349" name="page_349"></a> +Some frantic augur has observed the skies;<br /> +Some victim wants a heart, or crow flies wrong.<br /> +By heaven, 'twas never well, since saucy priests<br /> +Grew to be masters of the listening herd,<br /> +And into mitres cleft the regal crown;<br /> +Then, as the earth were scanty for their power,<br /> +They drew the pomp of heaven to wait on them.<br /> +Shall I go publish, Hector dares not fight,<br /> +Because a madman dreamt he talked with Jove?<br /> +What could the god see in a brain-sick priest,<br /> +That he should sooner talk to him than me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> You know my name's not liable to fear.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Yes, to the worst of fear,—to superstition.<br /> +But whether that, or fondness of a wife,<br /> +(The more unpardonable ill) has seized you,<br /> +Know this, the Grecians think you fear Achilles,<br /> +And that Polyxena has begged your life.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> How! that my life is begged, and by my sister?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Ulysses so informed me at our parting,<br /> +With a malicious and disdainful smile:<br /> +'Tis true, he said not, in broad words, you feared;<br /> +But in well-mannered terms 'twas so agreed,<br /> +Achilles should avoid to meet with Hector.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> He thinks my sister's treason my petition;<br /> +That, largely vaunting, in my heat of blood,<br /> +More than I could, it seems, or durst perform,<br /> +I sought evasion.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> And in private prayed—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> O yes, Polyxena to beg my life.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andr.</span> He cannot think so;—do not urge him thus.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Not urge me! then thou think'st I need his urging.<br /> +By all the gods, should Jove himself descend,<br /> +And tell me,—Hector, thou deservest not life,<br /> +But take it as a boon,—I would not live.<br /> +But that a mortal man, and he, of all men,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">350</span><a id="page_350" name="page_350"></a> +Should think my life were in his power to give,<br /> +I will not rest, till, prostrate on the ground,<br /> +I make him, atheist-like, implore his breath<br /> +Of me, and not of heaven.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Then you'll refuse no more to fight?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Refuse! I'll not be hindered, brother.<br /> +I'll through and through them, even their hindmost ranks,<br /> +Till I have found that large-sized boasting fool,<br /> +Who dares presume my life is in his gift.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Andr.</span> Farewell, farewell; 'tis vain to strive with fate!<br /> +Cassandra's raging god inspires my breast<br /> +With truths that must be told, and not believed.<br /> +Look how he dies! look how his eyes turn pale!<br /> +Look how his blood bursts out at many vents!<br /> +Hark how Troy roars, how Hecuba cries out,<br /> +And widowed I fill all the streets with screams!<br /> +Behold distraction, frenzy, and amazement,<br /> +Like antiques meet, and tumble upon heaps!<br /> +And all cry, Hector, Hector's dead! Oh Hector!<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> What sport will be, when we return at evening,<br /> +To laugh her out of countenance for her dreams!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> I have not quenched my eyes with dewy sleep this night;<br /> +But fiery fumes mount upward to my brains,<br /> +And, when I breathe, methinks my nostrils hiss!<br /> +I shall turn basilisk, and with my sight<br /> +Do my hands' work on Diomede this day.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> To arms, to arms! the vanguards are engaged<br /> +Let us not leave one man to guard the walls;<br /> +Both old and young, the coward and the brave,<br /> +Be summoned all, our utmost fate to try,<br /> +And as one body move, whose soul am I.<span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span></p> + +<div><span class="pgnm">351</span><a id="page_351" name="page_351"></a></div> + +<h4 class="scn">SCENE II—<i>The Camp.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Alarm within. Enter <span class="cnm">Agamemnon, Ulysses, Menelaus,</span> +Soldiers.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> Thus far the promise of the day is fair.<br /> +Æneas rather loses ground than gains.<br /> +I saw him over-laboured, taking breath,<br /> +And leaning on his spear, behold our trenches,<br /> +Like a fierce lion looking up to toils,<br /> +Which yet he durst not leap.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> And therefore distant death does all the work;<br /> +The flights of whistling darts make brown the sky,<br /> +Whose clashing points strike fire, and gild the dusk;<br /> +Those, that reach home, from neither host are vain,<br /> +So thick the prease; so lusty are their arms,<br /> +That death seemed never sent with better will.<br /> +Nor was with less concernment entertained.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Nestor.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> Now, Nestor, what's the news?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> I have descried<br /> +A cloud of dust, that mounts in pillars upwards,<br /> +Expanding as it travels to our camp;<br /> +And from the midst I heard a bursting shout,<br /> +That rent the heaven; as if all Troy were swarmed.<br /> +And on the wing this way.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Menel.</span> Let them come, let them come.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> Where's great Achilles?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Think not on Achilles,<br /> +Till Hector drag him from his tent to fight;<br /> +Which sure he will, for I have laid the train.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Nest.</span> But young Patroclus leads his Myrmidons,<br /> +And in their front, even in the face of Hector,<br /> +Resolves to dare the Trojans.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">352</span><a id="page_352" name="page_352"></a> +<span class="cnm">Agam.</span> Haste, Ulysses, bid Ajax issue forth and second him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Oh noble general, let it not be so.<br /> +Oppose not rage, while rage is in its force,<br /> +But give it way awhile, and let it waste.<br /> +The rising deluge is not stopt with dams;<br /> +Those it o'erbears, and drowns the hopes of harvest;<br /> +But, wisely managed, its divided strength<br /> +Is sluiced in channels, and securely drained.<br /> +First, let small parties dally with their fury;<br /> +But when their force is spent and unsupplied,<br /> +The residue with mounds may be restrained,<br /> +And dry-shod we may pass the naked ford.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Thersites.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Ho, ho, ho!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Menel.</span> Why dost thou laugh, unseasonable fool?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Why, thou fool in season, cannot a man +laugh, but thou thinkest he makes horns at thee? +Thou prince of the herd, what hast thou to do with +laughing? 'Tis the prerogative of a man, to laugh. +Thou risibility without reason, thou subject of laughter, +thou fool royal!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> But tell us the occasion of thy mirth?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Now a man asks me, I care not if I answer +to my own kind.—Why, the enemies are broken +into our trenches; fools like Menelaus fall by thousands +yet not a human soul departs on either side. +Troilus and Ajax have almost beaten one another's +heads off, but are both immortal for want of brains. +Patroclus has killed Sarpedon, and Hector Patroclus, +so there is a towardly springing fop gone off; +he might have made a prince one day, but now he's +nipt in the very bud and promise of a most prodigious +coxcomb.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> Bear off Patroclus' body to Achilles;<br /> +Revenge will arm him now, and bring us aid.<br /> +<span class="pgnm">353</span><a id="page_353" name="page_353"></a> +The alarm sounds near, and shouts are driven upon us,<br /> +As of a crowd confused in their retreat.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Open your ranks, and make these madmen way,<br /> +Then close again to charge upon their backs,<br /> +And quite consume the relics of the war. +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt all but <span class="cnm">Thersites.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> What shoals of fools one battle sweeps +away! How it purges families of younger brothers, +highways of robbers, and cities of cuckold-makers! +There is nothing like a pitched battle for these brisk +addle-heads! Your physician is a pretty fellow, but +his fees make him tedious, he rides not fast enough; +the fools grow upon him, and their horse bodies are +poison proof. Your pestilence is a quicker remedy, +but it has not the grace to make distinction; it huddles +up honest men and rogues together. But your +battle has discretion; it picks out all the forward +fools, and sowses them together into immortality. +[<i>Shouts and alarms within</i>] Plague upon these drums +and trumpets! these sharp sauces of the war, to get +fools an appetite to fighting! What do I among +them? I shall be mistaken for some valiant ass, +and die a martyr in a wrong religion.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Here Grecians fly over the stage pursued by +Trojans; one Trojan turns back upon <span class="cnm">Thersites</span> +who is flying too.</span><br /><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troj.</span> Turn, slave, and fight.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> [<span class="sdm">turning.</span>] What art thou?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troj.</span> A bastard son of Priam's.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> I am a bastard too, I love bastards, I am +bastard in body, bastard in mind, bastard in valour, +in every thing illegitimate. A bear will not fasten +upon a bear; why should one bastard offend another! +Let us part fair, like true sons of whores, and +have the fear of our mothers before our eyes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">354</span><a id="page_354" name="page_354"></a> +<span class="cnm">Troj.</span> The devil take thee, coward.<span class="sdr">[Exit Troj.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Now, would I were either invisible or invulnerable! +These gods have a fine time on it; +they can see and make mischief, and never feel it.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Clattering of swords at both doors; he runs each +way, and meets the noise.</span><br /><br /> +A pox clatter you! I am compassed in. Now +would I were that blockhead Ajax for a minute. +Some sturdy Trojan will poach me up with a long +pole! and then the rogues may kill one another +at free cost, and have nobody left to laugh at +them. Now destruction! now destruction!</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Hector</span> and <span class="cnm">Troilus</span> driving in the Greeks.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> to <i>Thers.</i> Speak what part thou fightest on!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> I fight not at all; I am for neither side.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Thou art a Greek; art thou a match for Hector?<br /> +Art thou of blood and honour?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> No, I am a rascal, a scurvy railing knave, +a very filthy rogue.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> I do believe thee; live.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> God-a-mercy, that thou wilt believe me; +but the devil break thy neck for frighting me. +<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> (<span class="sdm">returning.</span>) What prisoner have you there?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> A gleaning of the war; a rogue, he says.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Dispatch him, and away.<span class="sdr">[Going to kill him.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Hold, hold!—what, is it no more but dispatch +a man and away! I am in no such haste: I +will not die for Greece; I hate Greece, and by my +good will would never have been born there; I was +mistaken into that country, and betrayed by my +parents to be born there. And besides, I have a +mortal enemy among the Grecians, one Diomede, a +<span class="pgnm">355</span><a id="page_355" name="page_355"></a> +damned villain, and cannot die with a safe conscience +till I have first murdered him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Shew me that Diomede, and thou shalt live.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Come along with me, and I will conduct +thee to Calchas's tent, where I believe he is now, +making war with the priest's daughter.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> Here we must part, our destinies divide us;<br /> +Brother and friend, farewell.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> When shall we meet?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> When the gods please; if not, we once must part.<br /> +Look; on yon hill their squandered troops unite.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> If I mistake not, 'tis their last reserve:<br /> +The storm's blown o'er, and those but after-drops.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> I wish our men be not too far engaged;<br /> +For few we are and spent, as having born<br /> +The burthen of the day: But, hap what can,<br /> +They shall be charged; Achilles must be there,<br /> +And him I seek, or death.<br /> +Divide our troops, and take the fresher half.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> O brother!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Hect.</span> No dispute of ceremony:<br /> +These are enow for me, in faith enow.<br /> +Their bodies shall not flag while I can lead;<br /> +Nor wearied limbs confess mortality,<br /> +Before those ants, that blacken all yon hill,<br /> +Are crept into the earth. Farewell.<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Hect.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Farewell.—Come, Greek.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Now these rival rogues will clapperclaw +one another, and I shall have the sport of it.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Troil.</span> with <span class="cnm">Thers.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Achilles</span> and Myrmidons.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achill.</span> Which way went Hector?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Myrmid.</span> Up yon sandy hill;<br /> +You may discern them by their smoking track:<br /> +A wavering body working with bent hams<br /> +<span class="pgnm">356</span><a id="page_356" name="page_356"></a> +Against the rising, spent with painful march,<br /> +And by loose footing cast on heaps together.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> O thou art gone, thou sweetest, best of friends!<br /> +Why did I let thee tempt the shock of war,<br /> +Ere yet the tender nerves had strung thy limbs,<br /> +And knotted into strength! Yet, though too late,<br /> +I will, I will revenge thee, my Patroclus!<br /> +Nor shall thy ghost thy murderers long attend,<br /> +But thou shalt hear him calling Charon back,<br /> +Ere thou art wafted to the farther shore.—<br /> +Make haste, my soldiers; give me this day's pains<br /> +For my dead friend: strike every hand with mine,<br /> +Till Hector breathless on the ground we lay!<br /> +Revenge is honour, the securest way.<span class="sdr">[Exit with Myrm.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Thersites, Troilus,</span> Trojans.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> That's Calchas's tent.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Then, that one spot of earth contains more falsehood,<br /> +Than all the sun sees in his race beside.<br /> +That I should trust the daughter of a priest!<br /> +Priesthood, that makes a merchandise of heaven!<br /> +Priesthood, that sells even to their prayers and blessings<br /> +And forces us to pay for our own cozenage!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> Nay, cheats heaven too with entrails and with offals;<br /> +Gives it the garbage of a sacrifice,<br /> +And keeps the best for private luxury.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Thou hast deserved thy life for cursing priests.<br /> +Let me embrace thee; thou art beautiful:<br />. +That back, that nose, those eyes are beautiful:<br /> +Live; thou art honest, for thou hat'st a priest.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Thers.</span> [<i>Aside.</i>] Farewell, Trojan; if I escape with +life, as I hope, and thou art knocked on the head, +as I hope too, I shall be the first that ever escaped +<span class="pgnm">357</span><a id="page_357" name="page_357"></a> +the revenge of a priest after cursing him; and thou +wilt not be the last, I prophesy, that a priest will +bring to ruin.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Ther.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Methinks, my soul is roused to her last work;<br /> +Has much to do, and little time to spare.<br /> +She starts within me, like a traveller,<br /> +Who sluggishly outslept his morning hour,<br /> +And mends his pace to reach his inn betimes. +<span class="sdr">[Noise within, <span style="font-style: normal">Follow, follow!</span></span><br /> +A noise of arms! the traitor may be there;<br /> +Or else, perhaps, that conscious scene of love,<br /> +The tent, may hold him; yet I dare not search,<br /> +For oh, I fear to find him in that place.<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Troilus.</span></span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Calchas</span> and <span class="cnm">Cressida.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Where is he? I'll be justified, or die.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Calch.</span> So quickly vanished! he was here but now.<br /> +He must be gone to search for Diomede;<br /> +For Diomede told me, here they were to fight.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Alas!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Calch.</span> You must prevent, and not complain.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> If Troilus die, I have no share in life.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Calch.</span> If Diomede sink beneath the sword of Troilus<br /> +We lose not only a protector here,<br /> +But are debarred all future means of flight.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> What then remains?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Calch.</span> To interpose betimes<br /> +Betwixt their swords; or, if that cannot be,<br /> +To intercede for him, who shall be vanquished.<br /> +Fate leaves no middle course.<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Calchas.</span></span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Clashing within.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Ah me! I hear them,<br /> +And fear 'tis past prevention.</p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="pgnm">358</span><a id="page_358" name="page_358"></a> +Enter <span class="cnm">Diomede,</span> retiring before <span class="cnm">Troilus,</span> and falling +as he enters.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Now beg thy life, or die.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> No; use thy fortune:<br /> +I loath the life, which thou canst give, or take.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Scorn'st thou my mercy, villain!—Take thy wish.—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Hold, hold your hand, my lord, and hear me speak.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Troilus</span> turns back; in which time <span class="cnm">Diomede</span> +rises, Trojans and Greeks enter, and rank themselves +on both sides of their Captains.</span><br /><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Did I not hear the voice of perjured Cressida?<br /> +Com'st thou to give the last stab to my heart?<br /> +As if the proofs of all thy former falsehood<br /> +Were not enough convincing, com'st thou now<br /> +To beg my rival's life?<br /> +Whom, oh, if any spark of truth remained,<br /> +Thou couldst not thus, even to my face, prefer.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> What shall I say!—that you suspect me false,<br /> +Has struck me dumb! but let him live, my Troilus;<br /> +By all our loves, by all our past endearments,<br /> +I do adjure thee, spare him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Hell and death!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> If ever I had power to bend your mind,<br /> +Believe me still your faithful Cressida;<br /> +And though my innocence appear like guilt,<br /> +Because I make his forfeit life my suit,<br /> +'Tis but for this, that my return to you<br /> +Would be cut off for ever by his death;<br /> +My father, treated like a slave, and scorned;<br /> +Myself in hated bonds a captive held.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Could I believe thee, could I think thee true,<br /> +In triumph would I bear thee back to Troy,<br /> +Though Greece could rally all her shattered troops,<br /> +And stand embattled to oppose my way.<br /> +<span class="pgnm">359</span><a id="page_359" name="page_359"></a> +But, oh, thou syren, I will stop my ears<br /> +To thy enchanting notes; the winds shall bear<br /> +Upon their wings thy words, more light than they.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Alas! I but dissembled love to him.<br /> +If ever he had any proof, beyond<br /> +What modesty might give—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> No! witness this.—<span class="sdr">[The Ring shewn.</span><br /> +There, take her, Trojan, thou deserv'st her best;<br /> +You good, kind-natured, well-believing fools,<br /> +Are treasures to a woman.<br /> +I was a jealous, hard, vexatious lover,<br /> +And doubted even this pledge,—till full possession;<br /> +But she was honourable to her word,<br /> +And I have no just reason to complain.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> O unexampled, frontless impudence!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Hell, show me such another tortured wretch as Troilus!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> Nay, grieve not; I resign her freely up;<br /> +I'm satisfied; and dare engage for Cressida,<br /> +That, if you have a promise of her person,<br /> +She shall be willing to come out of debt.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> [<span class="sdm">Kneeling.</span>] +My only lord, by all those holy vows,<br /> +Which, if there be a Power above, are binding,<br /> +Or, if there be a hell below, are fearful,<br /> +May every imprecation, which your rage<br /> +Can wish on me, take place, if I am false!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> Nay, since you're so concerned to be believed,<br /> +I'm sorry I have pressed my charge so far:<br /> +Be what you would be thought; I can be grateful.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> Grateful! Oh torment! now hell's bluest flames<br /> +Receive her quick, with all her crimes upon her!<br /> +Let her sink spotted down! let the dark host<br /> +Make room, and point, and hiss her as she goes!<br /> +Let the most branded ghosts of all her sex<br /> +Rejoice, and cry,—"Here comes a blacker fiend!"<br /> +Let her—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">360</span><a id="page_360" name="page_360"></a> +<span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Enough, my lord; you've said enough.<br /><br /> +This faithless, perjured, hated Cressida,<br /> +Shall be no more the subject of your curses:<br /> +Some few hours hence, and grief had done your work;<br /> +But then your eyes had missed the satisfaction,<br /> +Which thus I give you,—thus— +<span class="sdr">[She stabs herself; they both run to her.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> Help! save her, help!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Stand off, and touch me not, thou traitor Diomede;—<br /> +But you, my only Troilus, come near:<br /> +Trust me, the wound, which I have given this breast,<br /> +Is far less painful than the wound you gave it.<br /> +Oh, can you yet believe, that I am true?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> This were too much, even if thou hadst been false!<br /> +But oh, thou purest, whitest innocence,—<br /> +For such I know thee now, too late I know it!—<br /> +May all my curses, and ten thousand more,<br /> +Heavier than they, fall back upon my head;<br /> +Pelion and Ossa, from the giants' graves<br /> +Be torn by some avenging deity,<br /> +And hurled at me, a bolder wretch than they,<br /> +Who durst invade the skies!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Cres.</span> Hear him not, heavens;<br /> +But hear me bless him with my latest breath!<br /> +And, since I question not your hard decree,<br /> +That doomed my days unfortunate and few,<br /> +Add all to him you take away from me;<br /> +And I die happy, that he thinks me true.<span class="sdr">[Dies.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> She's gone for ever, and she blest me dying!<br /> +Could she have cursed me worse! she died for me,<br /> +And, like a woman, I lament for her.<br /> +Distraction pulls me several ways at once:<br /> +Here pity calls me to weep out my eyes,<br /> +Despair then turns me back upon myself,<br /> +And bids me seek no more, but finish here. +<span class="sdr">[Points his Sword to his Breast.</span><br /> +<span class="pgnm">361</span><a id="page_361" name="page_361"></a> +Ha, smilest thou, traitor! thou instruct'st me best,<br /> +And turn'st my just revenge to punish thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Diom.</span> Thy worst, for mine has been beforehand with thee;<br /> +I triumph in thy vain credulity,<br /> +Which levels thy despairing state to mine;<br /> +But yet thy folly, to believe a foe,<br /> +Makes thine the sharper and more shameful loss.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Troil.</span> By my few moments of remaining life,<br /> +I did not hope for any future joy;<br /> +But thou hast given me pleasure ere I die,<br /> +To punish such a villain.—Fight apart;<span class="sdr">[To his Soldiers.</span><br /> +For heaven and hell have marked him out for me,<br /> +And I should grudge even his least drop of blood<br /> +To any other hand. +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Troilus</span> and <span class="cnm">Diomede</span> fight, and both Parties +engage at the same time. The Trojans make +the Greeks retire, and <span class="cnm">Troilus</span> makes <span class="cnm">Diomede</span> +give ground, and hurts him. Trumpets +sound. <span class="cnm">Achilles</span> enters with his Myrmidons, +on the backs of the Trojans, who fight in a +ring, encompassed round. <span class="cnm">Troilus,</span> singling +<span class="cnm">Diomede,</span> gets him down, and kills him; and +<span class="cnm">Achilles</span> kills <span class="cnm">Troilus</span> upon him. All the +Trojans die upon the place, <span class="cnm">Troilus</span> last.</span> +<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Agamemnon, Menelaus, Ulysses, Nestor, +Ajax,</span> and Attendants.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Our toils are done, and those aspiring walls,<br /> +The work of gods, and almost mating heaven,<br /> +Must crumble into rubbish on the plain.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Agam.</span> When mighty Hector fell beneath thy sword,<br /> +Their old foundations shook; their nodding towers<br /> +Threatened from high the amazed inhabitants;<br /> +And guardian-gods, for fear, forsook their fanes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Achil.</span> Patroclus, now be quiet; Hector's dead;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">362</span><a id="page_362" name="page_362"></a> +And, as a second offering to thy ghost,<br /> +Lies Troilus high upon a heap of slain;<br /> +And noble Diomede beneath, whose death<br /> +This hand of mine revenged.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ajax.</span> Revenged it basely:<br /> +For Troilus fell by multitudes opprest,<br /> +And so fell Hector; but 'tis vain to talk.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ulys.</span> Hail, Agamemnon! truly victor now!<br /> +While secret envy, and while open pride,<br /> +Among thy factious nobles discord threw;<br /> +While public good was urged for private ends,<br /> +And those thought patriots, who disturbed it most;<br /> +Then, like the headstrong horses of the sun,<br /> +That light, which should have cheered the world, consumed it:<br /> +Now peaceful order has resumed the reins,<br /> +Old Time looks young, and Nature seems renewed.<br /> +<span class="i1">Then, since from home-bred factions ruin springs,</span><br /> +<span class="i1">Let subjects learn obedience to their kings.</span><span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span></p> + +<div><span class="pgnm">363</span><a id="page_363" name="page_363"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">EPILOGUE,<br /> +SPOKEN BY THERSITES.</h3> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>These cruel critics put me into passion;</p> +<p>For, in their lowering looks I read damnation:</p> +<p>You expect a satire, and I seldom fail;</p> +<p>When I'm first beaten, 'tis my part to rail.</p> +<p>You British fools, of the old Trojan stock,</p> +<p>That stand so thick, one cannot miss the flock,</p> +<p>Poets have cause to dread a keeping pit,</p> +<p>When women's cullies come to judge of wit.</p> +<p>As we strew rat's-bane when we vermin fear,</p> +<p>'Twere worth our cost to scatter fool-bane here;</p> +<p>And, after all our judging fops were served,</p> +<p>Dull poets, too, should have a dose reserved;</p> +<p>Such reprobates, as, past all sense of shaming,</p> +<p>Write on, and ne'er are satisfied with damning:</p> +<p>Next, those, to whom the stage does not belong,</p> +<p>Such whose vocation only is—to song;</p> +<p>At most to prologue, when, for want of time,</p> +<p>Poets take in for journey-work in rhime.</p> +<p>But I want curses for those mighty shoals</p> +<p>Of scribbling Chloris's, and Phyllis' fools:</p> +<p>Those oafs should be restrained, during their lives,</p> +<p>From pen and ink, as madmen are from knives.</p> +<p>I could rail on, but 'twere a task as vain,</p> +<p>As preaching truth at Rome, or wit in Spain:</p> +<p>Yet, to huff out our play was worth my trying;</p> +<p>John Lilburn 'scaped his judges by defying:<a class="ftnt" href="#Troil_6-1">[1]</a></p> +<p>If guilty, yet I'm sure o' the church's blessing,</p> +<p>By suffering for the plot, without confessing.</p> +</div> + +<div class="ftnt"> +<p>Footnote:</p> +<ol> +<li><a id="Troil_6-1" name="Troil_6-1"></a>Lilburn, the most turbulent, but the boldest and most upright of men, had +the merit of defying and resisting the tyranny of the king, of the parliament, +and of the protector. He was convicted in the star-chamber, but liberated by +the parliament; he was tried on the parliamentary statute for treasons in +1651, and before Cromwell's high court of justice in 1654; and notwithstanding +an audacious defence,—which to some has been more perilous than a feeble +cause,—he was, in both cases, triumphantly acquitted.</li> +</ol></div> + +<div><span class="pgnm">364</span><a id="page_364" name="page_364"></a></div> +<div>[Blank Page]</div> + +<hr class="large" /> +<div><span class="pgnm">365</span><a id="page_365" name="page_365"></a></div> + +<p class="ctr" style="margin-top: 4em">THE</p> +<h2 class="nomarg">SPANISH FRIAR;</h2> +<p class="ctr">OR,</p> +<h3 class="nomarg">THE DOUBLE DISCOVERY.</h3> + + +<div class="ctr"> +<table class="ctr" summary="Epigram"> +<tr><td> +<p class="epigram"><i>Ut melius possis fallere, sume togam.</i></p> +<p class="smcap citation">—Mart.</p> +</td></tr> +</table> + +<table class="ctr" summary="Epigram"> +<tr><td> +<p class="epigram">—<i>Alterna revisens<br /> +Lasit, et in solido rursus fortuna locavit.</i></p> +<p class="smcap citation">—Virg.</p> +</td></tr> +</table> +</div> + + +<div><span class="pgnm">366</span><a id="page_366" name="page_366"></a></div> +<div>[Blank Page]</div> +<div><span class="pgnm">367</span><a id="page_367" name="page_367"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">THE SPANISH FRIAR.</h3> + +<p>The Spanish Friar, or the Double Discovery, is one of the best +and most popular of our poet's dramatic efforts. The plot is, +as Johnson remarks, particularly happy, for the coincidence +and coalition of the tragic and comic plots. The grounds for this +eminent critic's encomium will be found to lie more deep than +appears at first sight. It was, indeed, a sufficiently obvious connection, +to make the gay Lorenzo an officer of the conquering +army, and attached to the person of Torrismond. This expedient +could hardly have escaped the invention of the most vulgar playwright, +that ever dovetailed tragedy and comedy together. The +felicity of Dryden's plot, therefore, does not consist in the ingenuity +of his original conception, but in the minutely artificial strokes, +by which the reader is perpetually reminded of the dependence of +the one part of the play on the other. These are so frequent, and +appear so very natural, that the comic plot, instead of diverting our +attention from the tragic business, recals it to our mind by constant +and unaffected allusion. No great event happens in the higher region +of the camp or court, that has not some indirect influence +upon the intrigues of Lorenzo and Elvira; and the part which +the gallant is called upon to act in the revolution that winds +up the tragic interest, while it is highly in character, serves +to bring the catastrophe of both parts of the play under the eye +of the spectator, at one and the same time. Thus much seemed +necessary to explain the felicity of combination, upon which +Dryden justly valued himself, and which Johnson sanctioned by +his high commendation. But, although artfully conjoined, the +different departments of this tragi-comedy are separate subjects +of critical remark.</p> + +<p>The comic part of the Spanish Friar, as it gives the first title +to the play, seems to claim our first attention. Indeed, some precedence +is due to it in another point of view; for, though the +tragic scenes may be matched in All for Love, Don Sebastian, +and else where, the Spanish Friar contains by far the most happy +of Dryden's comic effusions. It has, comparatively speaking, this +high claim to commendation, that, although the intrigue is licentious, +according to the invariable licence of the age, the language is, +in general, free from the extreme and disgusting coarseness, which +our author too frequently mistook for wit, or was contented to +substitute in its stead. The liveliness and even brilliancy of the +<span class="pgnm">368</span><a id="page_368" name="page_368"></a> +dialogue, shows that Dryden, from the stores of his imagination, +could, when he pleased, command that essential requisite +of comedy; and that, if he has seldom succeeded, it was only +because he mistook the road, or felt difficulty in travelling +it. The character of Dominic is of that broadly ludicrous nature, +which was proper to the old comedy. It would be difficult +to show an ordinary conception more fully brought out. He is, +like Falstaff, a compound of sensuality and talent, finely varied +by the professional traits with which it suited the author's purpose +to adorn his character. Such an addition was, it is true, +more comic than liberal; but Dryden, whose constant dislike to +the clerical order glances out in many of his performances, was +not likely to be scrupulous, when called upon to pourtray one +of their members in his very worst colours. To counterbalance +the Friar's scandalous propensities of every sort, and to render +him an object of laughter, rather than abhorrence, the author has +gifted this reprobate churchman with a large portion of wit; by +means of which, and by a ready presence of mind, always indicative +of energy, he preserves an ascendence over the other characters, +and escapes detection and disgrace, until poetical justice, +and the conclusion of the play, called for his punishment. We +have a natural indulgence for an amusing libertine; and, I believe, +that, as most readers commiserate the disgrace of Falstaff, +a few may be found to wish that Dominic's penance had been of +a nature more decent and more theatrical than the poet has assigned +him<a class="ftnt" href="#Spani_1-1">[1]</a>. From the dedication, as well as the prologue, it +appears that Dryden, however contrary to his sentiments at a +future period, was, at present, among those who held up to contempt +and execration the character of the Roman catholic priesthood. +By one anonymous lampoon, this is ascribed to a temporary +desertion of the court party, in resentment for the loss, +or discontinuance of his pension. This allowance, during the +pressure upon the Exchequer, was, at least, irregularly paid, of +which Dryden repeatedly complains, and particularly in a letter +to the Earl of Rochester. But the hardship was owing entirely +to the poverty of the public purse; and, when the anonymous +libeller affirms, that Dryden's pension was withdrawn, on account +of his share in the Essay on Satire, he only shows that his veracity +<span class="pgnm">369</span><a id="page_369" name="page_369"></a> +is on a level with his poverty<a class="ftnt" href="#Spani_1-2">[2]</a>. The truth seems to be, that +Dryden partook in some degree of the general ferment which the +discovery of the Popish Plot had excited; and we may easily suppose +him to have done so without any impeachment to his monarchial +tenets, since North himself admits, that at the first +opening of the plot, the chiefs of the loyal party joined in the +cry. Indeed, that mysterious transaction had been investigated +by none more warmly than by Danby, the king's favourite +minister, and a high favourer of the prerogative. Even when +writing Absalom and Achitophel, our author by no means avows +an absolute disbelief of the whole plot, while condemning the extraordinary +exaggerations, by which it had been rendered the +means of much bloodshed and persecution<a class="ftnt" href="#Spani_1-3">[3]</a>. It seems, therefore, +fair to believe, that, without either betraying or disguising his own +principles, he chose, as a popular subject for the drama, an attack +<span class="pgnm">370</span><a id="page_370" name="page_370"></a> +upon an obnoxious priesthood, whom he, in common with all the +nation, believed to have been engaged in the darkest intrigues +against the king and government. I am afraid that this task was +the more pleasing, from that prejudice against the clergy, of all countries +and religions, which, as already noticed, our author displays, in +common with other wits of that licentious age<a class="ftnt" href="#Spani_1-4">[4]</a>. The character of +the Spanish Friar was not, however, forgotten, when Dryden became +a convert to the Roman Catholic persuasion; and, in many +instances, as well as in that just quoted, it was assumed as the +means of fixing upon him a charge of inconsistency in politics, +and versatility in religion<a class="ftnt" href="#Spani_1-5">[5]</a>.</p> + +<p>The tragic part of the "Spanish Friar" has uncommon merit. +The opening of the Drama, and the picture of a besieged town in +the last extremity, is deeply impressive, while the description of +the noise of the night attack, and the gradual manner in which +the intelligence of its success is communicated, arrests the attention, +and prepares expectation for the appearance of the hero, +with all the splendour which ought to attend the principal character +in tragedy. The subsequent progress of the plot is liable +to a capital objection, from the facility with which the queen, +amiable and virtuous, as we are bound to suppose her, consents +to the murder of the old dethroned monarch. We question if the +operation of any motive, however powerful, could have been pleaded +<span class="pgnm">371</span><a id="page_371" name="page_371"></a> +with propriety, in apology for a breach of theatrical decorum, +so gross, and so unnatural. But, in fact, the queen is only actuated +by a sort of reflected ambition, a desire to secure to her lover +a crown, which she thought in danger; but which, according to +her own statement, she only valued on his account. This is surely +too remote and indirect a motive, to urge a female to so horrid +a crime. There is also something vilely cold-hearted, in her attempt +to turn the guilt and consequences of her own crime upon +Bertran, who, whatever faults he might have to others, was to +the queen no otherwise obnoxious, than because the victim of +her own inconstancy. The gallant, virtuous, and enthusiastic character +of Torrismond, must be allowed, in some measure, to counterbalance +that of his mistress, however unhappily he has placed +his affections. But the real excellence of these scenes consists +less in peculiarity of character, than in the vivacity and power of +the language, which, seldom sinking into vulgarity, or rising into +bombast, maintains the mixture of force and dignity, best adapted +to the expression of tragic passion. Upon the whole, as the +comic part of this play is our author's master-piece in comedy, +the tragic plot may be ranked with his very best efforts of that +kind, whether in "Don Sebastian," or "All for Love."</p> + +<p>The "Spanish Friar" appears to have been brought out shortly +after Mr Thynne's murder, which is alluded to in the Prologue, +probably early in 1681-2. The whimsical caricature, which it +presented to the public, in Father Dominic, was received with rapture +by the prejudiced spectators, who thought nothing could be +exaggerated in the character of a Roman Catholic priest. Yet, +the satire was still more severe in the first edition, and afterwards +considerably softened<a class="ftnt" href="#Spani_1-6">[6]</a>. It was, as Dryden himself calls it, +a Protestant play; and certainly, as Jeremy Collier somewhere +says, was rare Protestant diversion, and much for the credit +of the Reformation. Accordingly, the "Spanish Friar" was +the only play prohibited by James II. after his accession; an interdict, +which may be easily believed no way disagreeable to +the author, now a convert to the Roman church. It is very +remarkable, that, after the Revolution, it was the first play represented +by order of queen Mary, and honoured with her presence; +a choice, of which she had abundant reason to repent, as +the serious part of the piece gave as much scope for malicious application +against herself, as the comic against the religion of her +father<a class="ftnt" href="#Spani_1-7">[7]</a>.</p> + +<div class="ftnt"> +<p>Footnotes:</p> +<ol> +<li><a id="Spani_1-1" name="Spani_1-1"></a>Collier remarks the injustice of punishing the agent of Lorenzo's vice, +while he was himself brought off with flying colours. He observes, "'Tis +not the fault which is corrected, but the priest. The author's discipline is +seldom without a bias. He commonly gives the laity the pleasure of an ill +action, and the clergy the punishment." <i>View of the Immorality and Profaneness +of the Stage</i>, p. 100.</li> + +<li><a id="Spani_1-2" name="Spani_1-2"></a> +<div class="poem"> +<p>To satire next thy talent was addressed,</p> +<p>Fell foul on all thy friends among the rest;</p> +<p>Nay, even thy royal patron was not spared,</p> +<p>But an obscene, a sauntering wretch declared.</p> +<p>Thy loyal libel we can still produce,</p> +<p>Beyond example, and beyond excuse.</p> +<p>O strange return, to a forgiving king,</p> +<p>(But the warmed viper wears the greatest sting,)</p> +<p>For pension lost, and justly without doubt;</p> +<p>When servants snarl we ought to kick them out.</p> +<p>They that disdain their benefactor's bread.</p> +<p>No longer ought by bounty to be fed.</p> +<p>That lost, the visor changed, you turn about,</p> +<p>And straight a true-blue protestant crept out.</p> +<p>The Friar now was writ, and some will say,</p> +<p>They smell a malcontent through all the play.</p> +<p>The papist too was damned, unfit for trust,</p> +<p>Called treacherous, shameless, profligate, unjust,</p> +<p>And kingly power thought arbitrary lust.</p> +<p>This lasted till thou didst thy pension gain,</p> +<p>And that changed both thy morals and thy strain.</p> +<p class="citation"><i>The Laureat, 24th October, 1678.</i></p> +</div> +</li> + +<li><a id="Spani_1-3" name="Spani_1-3"></a> +<div class="poem"> +<p>From hence began that plot, the nation's curse,</p> +<p>Bad in itself, but represented worse.</p> +<p>Raised in extremes, and in extremes decryed,</p> +<p>With oaths affirmed, with dying vows denied;</p> +<p>Nor weighed nor winnowed by the multitude,</p> +<p>But swallowed in the mass unchewed and crude.</p> +<p>Some truth there was, but dashed and bruised with lies,</p> +<p>To please the fools, and puzzle all the wise.</p> +<p>Succeeding times did equal folly call.</p> +<p>Believing nothing, or believing all.</p> +</div> +</li> + +<li><a id="Spani_1-4" name="Spani_1-4"></a>"Thus we see," says Collier, "how hearty these people are in their ill-will; +how they attack religion under every form, and pursue the priesthood +through all the subdivisions of opinion. Neither Jews nor Heathens, Turk +nor Christians, Rome nor Geneva, church nor conventicle, can escape them. +They are afraid lest virtue should have any quarters, undisturbed conscience any +corner to retire to, or God worshipped in any place." <i>Short View, &c.</i> p. 110.</li> + +<li><a id="Spani_1-5" name="Spani_1-5"></a>"I have read somewhere in Mons. Rapin's <i>Reflections sur la Poetique</i>, +that a certain Venetian nobleman, Andrea Naugeria by name, was wont +every year to sacrifice a Martial to the manes of Catullus: In imitation of +this, a celebrated poet, in the preface before the Spanish Friar, is pleased to +acquaint the world, that he has indignation enough to burn a Bussy D'Amboys, +annually, to the memory of Ben Jonson. Since the modern ceremony, +of offering up one author at the altar of another, is likely to advance into a +fashion; and having already the authority of two such great men to recommend +it, the courteous reader may be pleased to take notice, that the author +of the following dialogue is resolved, (God willing) on the festival of the +Seven Sleepers, as long as he lives, to sacrifice the Hind and Panther to the +memory of Mr Quarels and John Bunyan: Or, if a writer that has notoriously +contradicted himself, and espoused the quarrel of two different parties, +may be considered under two distinct characters, he designs to deliver up the +author of the Hind and Panther, to be lashed severely by, and to beg pardon +of, the worthy gentleman that wrote the Spanish Friar, and the Religion +Laici." <i>The reason of Mr Bayes' changing his religion.</i> Preface.</li> + +<li><a id="Spani_1-6" name="Spani_1-6"></a>"The Revolter," a tragi-comedy, 1687, p. 29.</li> + +<li><a id="Spani_1-7" name="Spani_1-7"></a>It is impossible to avoid transcribing the whole account of this representation, +with some other curious particulars, contained in a letter from the +<span class="pgnm">372</span><a id="page_372" name="page_372"></a> +earl of Nottingham, published by Sir John Dalrymple, from a copy given +him by the bishop of Dromore; and also inserted by Mr Malone in his third +volume of Dryden's prose works. + +<p>"I am loth to send blank paper by a carrier, but am rather willing to send +some of the tattle of the town, than nothing at all; which will at least serve +for an hour's chat,—and then convert the scrawl to its proper use.</p> + +<p>"The only day her Majesty gave herself the diversion of a play, and that +on which she designed to see another, has furnished the town with discourse +for near a month. The choice of the play was THE SPANISH FRIAR, the +only play forbid by the late K[ing], Some unhappy expressions, among +which those that follow, put her in some disorder, and forced her to hold up +her fan, and often look behind her, and call for her palatine and hood, and +any thing she could next think of; while those who were in the pit before +her, turned their heads over their shoulders, and all in general directed their +looks towards her, whenever their fancy led them to make any application of +what was said. In one place, where the queen of Arragon is going to church +in procession, 'tis said by a spectator, 'Very good; she usurps the throne, +keeps the old king in prison, and, at the same time, is praying for a blessing +on her army;'—And when said, 'That 'tis observed at Court, who weeps, +and who wears black for good king Sancho's death,' 'tis said, 'Who is that, +that can flatter a Court like this? Can I sooth tyranny? seem pleas'd to see +my Royal Master murthered; his crown usurped; a distaff in the throne?'—And +'What title has this queen, but lawless force; and force must pull her +down'—Twenty more things are said, which may be wrested to what they +were never designed: but however, the observations then made furnished +the town with talk, till something else happened, which gave it much occasion +for discourse; for another play being ordered to be acted, the queen +came not, being taken up with other diversion. She dined with Mrs Gradens, +the famous woman in the hall, that sells fine laces and head-dresses; +from thence she went to the Jew's, that sells Indian things; to Mrs Ferguson's, +De Vett's, Mrs Harrison's, and other Indian houses; but not to Mrs +Potter's, though in her way; which caused Mrs Potter to say, that she might +as well have hoped for that honour as others, considering that the whole design +of bringing the queen and king was managed at her house, and the consultations +held there; so that she might as well have thrown away a little +money in raffling there, as well as at the other houses: but it seems that my +lord Devonshire has got Mrs Potter to be laundress: she has not much countenance +of the queen, her daughter still keeping the Indian house her mother +had. The same day the queen went to one Mrs Wise's, a famous woman +for telling fortunes, but could not prevail with her to tell anything; +though to others she has been very true, and has foretold that king James +shall came in again, and the duke of Norfolk shall lose his head: the last, I +suppose, will naturally be the consequence of the first. These things, however +innocent, have passed the censure of the town: and, besides a private +reprimand given, the king gave one in <i>public</i>; saying to the queen, that he +heard she dined at a bawdy-house, and desired the next time she went, he +might go. She said, she had done nothing but what the late queen had done. +He asked her, if she meant to make her, her example. More was said on +this occasion than ever was known before; but it was borne with all the submission +of a good wife, who leaves all to the direction of the k——, and diverts +herself with walking six or seven miles a-day, and looking after her buildings, +making of fringes, and such like innocent things; and does not meddle +in government, though she has better title to do it than the late queen had."</p></li> +</ol></div> + +<div><span class="pgnm">373</span><a id="page_373" name="page_373"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">TO +THE RIGHT HONOURABLE +JOHN, +LORD HAUGHTON<a class="ftnt" href="#Spani_2-1">[1]</a>.</h3> + +<p class="smcap">My Lord,</p> + +<p>When I first designed this play, I found, or +thought I found, somewhat so moving in the serious +part of it, and so pleasant in the comic, as +might deserve a more than ordinary care in both; +accordingly, I used the best of my endeavour, +in the management of two plots, so very different +from each other, that it was not perhaps the +talent of every writer to have made them of a +piece. Neither have I attempted other plays of the +<span class="pgnm">374</span><a id="page_374" name="page_374"></a> +same nature, in my opinion, with the same judgment, +though with like success. And though many +poets may suspect themselves for the fondness and +partiality of parents to their youngest children, yet +I hope I may stand exempted from this rule, because +I know myself too well to be ever satisfied +with my own conceptions, which have seldom reached +to those ideas that I had within me; and consequently, +I may presume to have liberty to judge +when I write more or less pardonably, as an ordinary +marksman may know certainly when he shoots +less wide at what he aims. Besides, the care and +pains I have bestowed on this, beyond my other +tragi-comedies, may reasonably make the world conclude, +that either I can do nothing tolerably, or +that this poem is not much amiss. Few good pictures +have been finished at one sitting; neither can +a true just play, which is to bear the test of ages, +be produced at a heat, or by the force of fancy, +without the maturity of judgment. For my own +part, I have both so just a diffidence of myself, and +so great a reverence for my audience, that I dare +venture nothing without a strict examination; and +am as much ashamed to put a loose indigested play +upon the public, as I should be to offer brass money +in a payment; for though it should be taken, (as it +is too often on the stage) yet it would be found in +the second telling; and a judicious reader will discover, +in his closet, that trashy stuff, whose glittering +deceived him in the action. I have often heard +the stationer sighing in his shop, and wishing for +those hands to take off his melancholy bargain, +which clapped its performance on the stage. In a +playhouse, every thing contributes to impose upon +the judgment; the lights, the scenes, the habits, +and, above all, the grace of action, which is commonly +the best where there is the most need of it, +<span class="pgnm">375</span><a id="page_375" name="page_375"></a> +surprise the audience, and cast a mist upon their +understandings; not unlike the cunning of a juggler, +who is always staring us in the face, and over-whelming +us with gibberish, only that he may gain +the opportunity of making the cleaner conveyance +of his trick. But these false beauties of the stage +are no more lasting than a rainbow; when the actor +ceases to shine upon them, when he gilds them +no longer with his reflection, they vanish in a +twinkling. I have sometimes wondered, in the +reading, what was become of those glaring colours +which amazed me in "Bussy D'Amboys" upon the +theatre; but when I had taken up what I supposed +a fallen star, I found I had been cozened with a +jelly<a class="ftnt" href="#Spani_2-2">[2]</a>; nothing but a cold, dull mass, which glittered +no longer than it was shooting; a dwarfish +thought, dressed up in gigantic words, repetition +in abundance, looseness of expression, and gross +hyperboles; the sense of one line expanded prodigiously +into ten; and, to sum up all, uncorrect +English, and a hideous mingle of false poetry, and +true nonsense; or, at best, a scantling of wit, which +lay gasping for life, and groaning beneath a heap of +rubbish. A famous modern poet used to sacrifice every +year a Statius to Virgil's manes<a class="ftnt" href="#Spani_2-3">[3]</a>; and I have indignation +<span class="pgnm">376</span><a id="page_376" name="page_376"></a> +enough to burn a D'AMBOIS annually, to +the memory of Jonson<a class="ftnt" href="#Spani_2-4">[4]</a>. But now, my lord, I am +sensible, perhaps too late, that I have gone too far: +for, I remember some verses of my own Maximin +and Almanzor, which cry vengeance upon me for +their extravagance, and which I wish heartily in +the same fire with Statius and Chapman. All I +can say for those passages, which are, I hope, not +many, is, that I knew they were bad enough to +please, even when I wrote them; but I repent of +them amongst my sins; and, if any of their fellows +intrude by chance into my present writings, I draw +<span class="pgnm">377</span><a id="page_377" name="page_377"></a> +a stroke over all those Dalilah's of the theatre; and +am resolved I will settle myself no reputation by +the applause of fools. It is not that I am mortified +to all ambition, but I scorn as much to take it from +half-witted judges, as I should to raise an estate by +cheating of bubbles. Neither do I discommend the +lofty style in tragedy, which is naturally pompous +and magnificent; but nothing is truly sublime, that +is not just and proper. If the antients had judged +by the same measure, which a common reader +takes, they had concluded Statius to have written +higher than Virgil, for,</p> + +<div class="poem pi"> +<p>Quæ super-imposito moles geminata Colosso</p> +</div> + +<p class="noind"><span class="pgnm">378</span><a id="page_378" name="page_378"></a> +carries a more thundering kind of sound, than</p> + +<div class="poem pi"> +<p>Tityre, tu patulæ recubans sub tegmine fagi:</p> +</div> + +<p class="noind">yet Virgil had all the majesty of a lawful prince, +and Statius only the blustering of a tyrant. But +when men affect a virtue which they cannot easily +reach, they fall into a vice, which bears the nearest +resemblance to it. Thus, an injudicious poet, +who aims at loftiness, runs easily into the swelling +puffy style, because it looks like greatness. I remember, +when I was a boy, I thought inimitable +Spencer a mean poet, in comparison of Sylvester's +"Dubartas," and was wrapt into an ecstasy when I +read these lines:</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>Now, when the winter's keener breath began</p> +<p>To crystalize the Baltic ocean;</p> +<p>To glaze the lakes, to bridle up the floods,</p> +<p>And periwig with snow the bald-pate woods:—<a class="ftnt" href="#Spani_2-5">[5]</a></p> +</div> + +<p><span class="pgnm">379</span><a id="page_379" name="page_379"></a> +I am much deceived if this be not abominable +fustian, that is, thoughts and words ill-sorted, and +without the least relation to each other; yet I dare +not answer for an audience, that they would not +clap it on the stage: so little value there is to be +given to the common cry, that nothing but madness +can please madmen, and the poet must be of a +piece with the spectators, to gain a reputation with +them. But, as in a room, contrived for state, the +height of the roof should bear a proportion to the +area; so, in the heightenings of poetry, the strength +and vehemence of figures should be suited to the +occasion, the subject, and the persons. All beyond +this is monstrous: it is out of nature, it is an excrescence, +and not a living part of poetry. I had +not said thus much, if some young gallants, who +pretend to criticism, had not told me, that this tragi-comedy +wanted the dignity of style; but, as a +man, who is charged with a crime of which he +thinks himself innocent, is apt to be too eager in +his own defence; so, perhaps, I have vindicated +my play with more partiality than I ought, or than +such a trifle can deserve. Yet, whatever beauties +it may want, it is free at least from the grossness +of those faults I mentioned: what credit it has +gained upon the stage, I value no farther than in +reference to my profit, and the satisfaction I had, in +seeing it represented with all the justness and gracefulness +of action. But, as it is my interest to please +my audience, so it is my ambition to be read: that +I am sure is the more lasting and the nobler design: +for the propriety of thoughts and words, which are +the hidden beauties of a play, are but confusedly +judged in the vehemence of action: all things are +there beheld, as in a hasty motion, where the objects +only glide before the eye, and disappear. The +most discerning critic can judge no more of these +<span class="pgnm">380</span><a id="page_380" name="page_380"></a> +silent graces in the action, than he who rides post +through an unknown country can distinguish the +situation of places, and the nature of the soil. The +purity of phrase, the clearness of conception and +expression, the boldness maintained to majesty, the +significancy and sound of words, not strained into +bombast, but justly elevated; in short, those very +words and thoughts, which cannot be changed, but +for the worse, must of necessity escape our transient +view upon the theatre; and yet, without all +these, a play may take. For, if either the story +move us, or the actor help the lameness of it with +his performance, or now and then a glittering beam +of wit or passion strike through the obscurity of +the poem, any of these are sufficient to effect a present +liking, but not to fix a lasting admiration; for +nothing but truth can long continue; and time is +the surest judge of truth. I am not vain enough +to think that I have left no faults in this, which that +touchstone will not discover; neither, indeed, is it +possible to avoid them in a play of this nature. +There are evidently two actions in it; but it will +be clear to any judicious man, that with half the +pains I could have raised a play from either of +them; for this time I satisfied my humour, which +was to tack two plays together; and to break a rule +for the pleasure of variety. The truth is, the audience +are grown weary of continued melancholy +scenes; and I dare venture to prophecy, that few +tragedies, except those in verse, shall succeed in +this age, if they are not lightened with a course of +mirth; for the feast is too dull and solemn without +the fiddles. But how difficult a task this is, +will soon be tried; for a several genius is required +to either way; and, without both of them, a man, +in my opinion, is but half a poet for the stage. +Neither is it so trivial an undertaking, to make a +<span class="pgnm">381</span><a id="page_381" name="page_381"></a> +tragedy end happily; for it is more difficult to save, +than it is to kill. The dagger and the cup of poison +are always in a readiness; but to bring the action +to the last extremity, and then by probable +means to recover all, will require the art and judgement +of a writer; and cost him many a pang in +the performance.</p> + +<p>And now, my lord, I must confess, that what I +have written, looks more like a Preface, than a Dedication; +and, truly, it was thus far my design, +that I might entertain you with somewhat in my +own art, which might be more worthy of a noble +mind, than the stale exploded trick of fulsome +panegyrics. It is difficult to write justly on any +thing, but almost impossible in praise. I shall +therefore wave so nice a subject; and only tell +you, that, in recommending a protestant play to a +protestant patron, as I do myself an honour, so I +do your noble family a right, who have been always +eminent in the support and favour of our religion +and liberties. And if the promises of your youth, +your education at home, and your experience abroad, +deceive me not, the principles you have embraced +are such, as will no way degenerate from your ancestors, +but refresh their memory in the minds of +all true Englishmen, and renew their lustre in your +person; which, my lord, is not more the wish, than +it is the constant expectation, of</p> + +<p class="sig i1">Your lordship's</p> +<p class="sig i2">Most obedient, faithful servant,</p> +<p class="sig i3 smcap">John Dryden.</p> + +<div class="ftnt"> +<p>Footnotes:</p> +<ol> +<li><a id="Spani_2-1" name="Spani_2-1"></a>John, Lord Haughton, eldest son of the Earl of Clare. +succeeded to his father, was created Marquis of Clare, and died +1711, leaving an only daughter, who married the eldest son of the +famous Robert Harley, Earl of Oxford.</li> + +<li><a id="Spani_2-2" name="Spani_2-2"></a>See <a href="#OEdip_4-6">note on Œdipus, p. 151.</a></li> + +<li><a id="Spani_2-3" name="Spani_2-3"></a>Dryden appears to have alluded to the following passage in +Strada, though without a very accurate recollection of its contents: +<i>"Sane Andreas Naugerius Valerio Martiali acriter infensus, +solemne jam habebat in illum aliquanto petulantius jocari. +Etenim natali suo, accitis ad geniale epulum amicis, postquam +prolixe de poeticæ laudibus super mensam disputaverat; ostensurum +se aiebat a cæna, quo tandem modo laudari poesim deceret: Mox +aferri jubebat Martialis volumen, (hæc erat mensæ appendix) atque +igni proprior factus, illustri conflagratione absumendum flammis +imponebat: addebatque eo incendio litare se Musis, Manibusque +Virgilij, cujus imitatorem cultoremque prestare se melius +haud posset, quam si vilia poetarum capita per undas insecutus ac +flammas perpetuo perdidisset. Nec se eo loco tenuit, sed cum +Silvas aliquot ab se conscriptas legisset, audissetque Statianu characteri +similes videri, iratus sibi, quod a Martiale fugiens alio declinasset +a Virgilio, cum primum se recessit domum, in Silvas +conjecit ignem."</i> <i>Stradæ Prolusiones</i>, Lib. II. Pro. 5. From +this passage, it is obvious, that it was Martial, not Statius, whom +Andreas Navagero sacrificed to Virgil, although he burned his +own verses when they were accused of a resemblance to the style +of the author of the Thebaid. In the same prolusion, Strada +quotes the "blustering" line, afterwards censured by Dryden; +but erroneously reads,<br /><br /> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>Super imposito moles <i>gemmata</i> colosso.</p> +</div> +</li> + +<li><a id="Spani_2-4" name="Spani_2-4"></a>"Bussy D'Ambois," a tragedy, once much applauded, was +the favourite production of George Chapman. If Dryden could +have exhausted every copy of this bombast performance in one +holocaust, the public would have been no great losers, as may be +apparent from the following quotations:<br /><br /> + +<div class="poem"> +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bussy.</span> I'll sooth his plots, and strew my hate with smiles,<br /> +Till, all at once, the close mines of my heart<br /> +Rise at full state, and rush into his blood.<br /> +I'll bind his arm in silk, and rub his flesh,<br /> +To make the veine swell, that his soule may gush<br /> +Into some kennel, where it loves to lie;<br /> +And policy be flanked with policy.<br /> +Yet shall the feeling centre, where we meet.<br /> +Groan with the weight of my approaching feet.<br /> +I'll make the inspired threshold of his court<br /> +Sweat with the weather of my horrid steps,<br /> +Before I enter; yet, I will appear<br /> +Like calm securitie, befor a ruin.<br /> +A politician must, like lightning, melt<br /> +The very marrow, and not taint the skin;<br /> +His wayes must not be seen through, the superficies<br /> +Of the green centre must not taste his feet,<br /> +When hell is plowed up with the wounding tracts,<br /> +And all his harvest reap't by hellish facts.</p> +</div> + +<p>Montsurry, when he discovers that the Friar had acted as confident +in the intrigue betwixt his lady and d'Ambois, thus elegantly +expresses the common idea of the world being turned <i>upside +down.</i><br /><br /></p> + +<div class="poem"> +<p class="i1">Now, is it true, earth moves, and heaven stands still;</p> +<p>Even heaven itself must see and suffer ill.</p> +<p>The too huge bias of the world hath swayed</p> +<p>Her back-part upwards, and with <i>that</i> she braves</p> +<p>This hemisphere, that long her month hath mocked.</p> +<p>The gravity of her religious face,</p> +<p>Now grown too weighty with her sacrilege,</p> +<p>And here discerned sophisticate enough,</p> +<p>Turns to the antipodes, and all the forms</p> +<p>That here allusions have impressed in her,</p> +<p>Have eaten through her back, and now all see</p> +<p>How she is riveted with hypocrisie.</p> +</div> + +<p>Yet, I observe, from the prologue to the edition of 1641, that +the part of D'Ambois was considered as a high test of a players' +talents:<br /><br /></p> + +<div class="poem"> +<p class="i1">—Field is gone,</p> +<p>Whose action first did give it name; and one</p> +<p>Who came the neatest to him, is denied,</p> +<p>By his grey beard, to shew the height and pride</p> +<p>Of d'Ambois' youth and braverie. Yet to hold</p> +<p>Our title still a-foot, and not grow cold,</p> +<p>By giving't o'er, a third man with his best</p> +<p>Of care and paines defends our interest.</p> +<p>As Richard he was liked, nor do we fear,</p> +<p>In personating d'Ambois, heile appear</p> +<p>To faint, or goe lesse, so your free consent,</p> +<p>As heretofore, give him encouragement.</p> +</div> + +<p>I believe the successor of Field, in this once favourite character, +was Hart. The piece was revived after the Restoration with +great success.</p></li> + +<li><a id="Spani_2-5" name="Spani_2-5"></a>Dryden has elsewhere ridiculed this absurd passage. The +original has "periwig with <i>wool</i>."</li> +</ol></div> + +<div><span class="pgnm">382</span><a id="page_382" name="page_382"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">PROLOGUE.</h3> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>Now, luck for us, and a kind hearty pit;</p> +<p>For he, who pleases, never fails of wit:</p> +<p>Honour is yours;</p> +<p>And you, like kings at city-treats, bestow it;</p> +<p>The writer kneels, and is bid rise a poet;</p> +<p>But you are fickle sovereigns, to our sorrow;</p> +<p>You dub to-day, and hang a man to-morrow:</p> +<p>You cry the same sense up, and down again,</p> +<p>Just like brass-money once a year in Spain:</p> +<p>Take you in the mood, whate'er base metal come,</p> +<p>You coin as fast as groats at Birmingham:</p> +<p>Though 'tis no more like sense, in antient plays,</p> +<p>Than Rome's religion like St Peter's days.</p> +<p>In short, so swift your judgments turn and wind,</p> +<p>You cast our fleetest wits a mile behind.</p> +<p>'Twere well your judgments but in plays did range,</p> +<p>But e'en your follies and debauches change</p> +<p>With such a whirl, the poets of our age</p> +<p>Are tired, and cannot score them on the stage;</p> +<p>Unless each vice in short-hand they indict,</p> +<p>Even as notch'd prentices whole sermons write<a class="ftnt" href="#Spani_3-1">[1]</a>.</p> +<p>The heavy Hollanders no vices know,</p> +<p>But what they used a hundred years ago;</p> +<p>Like honest plants, where they were stuck, they grow.</p> +<p>They cheat, but still from cheating sires they come;</p> +<p>They drink, but they were christened first in mum.</p> +<p>Their patrimonial sloth the Spaniards keep,</p> +<p>And Philip first taught Philip how to sleep.</p> +<p>The French and we still change; but here's the curse,</p> +<p>They change for better, and we change for worse;</p> +<p>They take up our old trade of conquering,</p> +<p>And we are taking theirs, to dance and sing:</p> +<p>Our fathers did, for change, to France repair,</p> +<p>And they, for change, will try our English air;</p> +<p><span class="pgnm">383</span><a id="page_383" name="page_383"></a> +As children, when they throw one toy away,</p> +<p>Strait a more foolish gewgaw comes in play:</p> +<p>So we, grown penitent, on serious thinking,</p> +<p>Leave whoring, and devoutly fall to drinking.</p> +<p>Scowering the watch grows out-of-fashion wit:</p> +<p>Now we set up for tilting in the pit,</p> +<p>Where 'tis agreed by bullies chicken-hearted,</p> +<p>To fright the ladies first, and then be parted.</p> +<p>A fair attempt has twice or thrice been made,</p> +<p>To hire night murderers, and make death a trade<a class="ftnt" href="#Spani_3-2">[2]</a>.</p> +<p>When murder's out, what vice can we advance?</p> +<p>Unless the new-found poisoning trick of France:</p> +<p>And, when their art of rats-bane we have got,</p> +<p>By way of thanks, we'll send them o'er our plot.</p> +</div> + +<div class="ftnt"> +<p>Footnotes:</p> +<ol> +<li><a id="Spani_3-1" name="Spani_3-1"></a>It was anciently a part of the apprentice's duty, not only to carry the family +bible to church, but to take notes of the sermon for the edification of +his master or mistress.</li> + +<li><a id="Spani_3-2" name="Spani_3-2"></a>Alluding apparently to the assassination of Thomas Thynne, esq. in +Pall-Mall, by the hired bravoes of count Coningsmark.</li> +</ol></div> +<div><span class="pgnm">384</span><a id="page_384" name="page_384"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">DRAMATIS PERSONÆ.</h3> + +<p class="noind"><span class="smcap">Torrismond,</span> <i>Son of</i> <span class="smcap">Sancho,</span> <i>the deposed King, believing +himself Son of</i> <span class="smcap">Raymond.</span><br /> +<span class="smcap">Bertran,</span> <i>a Prince of the blood.</i><br /> +<span class="smcap">Alphonso,</span> <i>a general Officer, Brother to</i> <span class="smcap">Raymond.</span><br /> +<span class="smcap">Lorenzo,</span> <i>his Son.</i><br /> +<span class="smcap">Raymond,</span> <i>a Nobleman, supposed Father of</i> <span class="smcap">Torrismond.</span><br /> +<span class="smcap">Pedro,</span> <i>an Officer.</i><br /> +<span class="smcap">Gomez,</span> <i>an old Usurer.</i><br /> +<span class="smcap">Dominick,</span> <i>the Spanish Friar.</i></p> + +<p class="noind"><span class="smcap">Leonora,</span> <i>Queen of Arragon.</i><br /> +<span class="smcap">Teresa,</span> <i>Woman to</i> <span class="smcap">Leonora.</span><br /> +<span class="smcap">Elvira,</span> <i>Wife to</i> <span class="smcap">Gomez.</span></p> + +<div><span class="pgnm">385</span><a id="page_385" name="page_385"></a></div> + +<p class="ctr" style="margin-top: 4em;">THE</p> +<h3 class="nomarg">SPANISH FRIAR:</h3> +<p class="ctr">OR THE</p> +<h3 class="nomarg">DOUBLE DISCOVERY.</h3> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT I.—SCENE I.</h4> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="cnm">Alphonso</span> and <span class="cnm">Pedro</span> meet, with Soldiers on each +Side, Drums, &c.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Stand: give the word.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> The queen of Arragon.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Pedro?—how goes the night?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> She wears apace.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Then welcome day-light; we shall have +warm work on't.<br /> +The Moor will 'gage<br /> +His utmost forces on this next assault,<br /> +To win a queen and kingdom.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> Pox on this lion-way of wooing, though.<br /> +Is the queen stirring yet?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">386</span><a id="page_386" name="page_386"></a> +<span class="cnm">Alph.</span> She has not been abed, but in her chapel<br /> +All night devoutly watched, and bribed the saints<br /> +With vows for her deliverance.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> O, Alphonso!<br /> +I fear they come too late. Her father's crimes<br /> +Sit heavy on her, and weigh down her prayers.<br /> +A crown usurped; a lawful king deposed,<br /> +In bondage held, debarred the common light;<br /> +His children murdered, and his friends destroyed,—<br /> +What can we less expect than what we feel,<br /> +And what we fear will follow?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Heaven avert it!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> Then heaven must not be heaven. Judge the event<br /> +By what has passed. The usurper joyed not long<br /> +His ill-got crown:—'tis true, he died in peace,—<br /> +Unriddle that, ye powers!—but left his daughter,<br /> +Our present queen, engaged upon his death-bed,<br /> +To marry with young Bertran, whose cursed father<br /> +Had helped to make him great.<br /> +Hence, you well know, this fatal war arose;<br /> +Because the Moor Abdalla, with whose troops<br /> +The usurper gained the kingdom, was refused;<br /> +And, as an infidel, his love despised.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Well, we are soldiers, Pedro; and, like lawyers,<br /> +Plead for our pay.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> A good cause would do well though:<br /> +It gives my sword an edge. You see this Bertran<br /> +Has now three times been beaten by the Moors:<br /> +What hope we have, is in young Torrismond,<br /> +Your brother's son.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> He's a successful warrior,<br /> +And has the soldiers' hearts: upon the skirts<br /> +Of Arragon our squandered troops he rallies.<br /> +Our watchmen from the towers with longing eyes<br /> +Expect his swift arrival.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">387</span><a id="page_387" name="page_387"></a> +<span class="cnm">Ped.</span> It must be swift, or it will come too late.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> No more.—Duke Bertran.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Bertran</span> attended.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Relieve the sentries that have watched all night.<br /> +[<span class="sdm">To Ped.</span>] Now, colonel, have you disposed your men,<br /> +That you stand idle here?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> Mine are drawn off<br /> +To take a short repose.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Short let it be:<br /> +For, from the Moorish camp, this hour and more,<br /> +There has been heard a distant humming noise,<br /> +Like bees disturbed, and arming in their hives.<br /> +What courage in our soldiers? Speak! What hope?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> As much as when physicians shake their heads,<br /> +And bid their dying patient think of heaven.<br /> +Our walls are thinly manned; our best men slain;<br /> +The rest, an heartless number, spent with watching,<br /> +And harassed out with duty.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Good-night all, then.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> Nay, for my part, 'tis but a single life<br /> +I have to lose. I'll plant my colours down<br /> +In the mid-breach, and by them fix my foot;<br /> +Say a short soldier's prayer, to spare the trouble<br /> +Of my new friends above; and then expect<br /> +The next fair bullet.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Never was known a night of such distraction;<br /> +Noise so confused and dreadful; jostling crowds.<br /> +That run, and know not whither; torches gliding,<br /> +Like meteors, by each other in the streets.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> I met a reverend, fat, old gouty friar,—<br /> +With a paunch swoll'n so high, his double chin<br /> +Might rest upon it; a true son of the church;<br /> +Fresh-coloured, well thriven on his trade,—<br /> +<span class="pgnm">388</span><a id="page_388" name="page_388"></a> +Come puffing with his greasy bald-pate choir,<br /> +And fumbling o'er his beads in such an agony,<br /> +He told them false, for fear. About his neck<br /> +There hung a wench, the label of his function,<br /> +Whom he shook off, i'faith, methought, unkindly.<br /> +It seems the holy stallion durst not score<br /> +Another sin, before he left the world.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter a Captain.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Capt.</span> To arms, my lord, to arms!<br /> +From the Moors' camp the noise grows louder still:<br /> +Rattling of armour, trumpets, drums, and ataballes;<br /> +And sometimes peals of shouts that rend the heavens,<br /> +Like victory: then groans again, and howlings,<br /> +Like those of vanquished men; but every echo<br /> +Goes fainter off, and dies in distant sounds.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Some false attack: expect on t'other side.<br /> +One to the gunners on St Jago's tower; bid them, for shame,<br /> +Level their cannon lower: On my soul<br /> +They are all corrupted with the gold of Barbary,<br /> +To carry over, and not hurt the Moor.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter a second Captain.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">2 Capt.</span> My lord, here's fresh intelligence arrived.<br /> +Our army, led by valiant Torrismond,<br /> +Is now in hot engagement with the Moors;<br /> +'Tis said, within their trenches.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> I think all fortune is reserved for him!—<br /> +He might have sent us word though;<br /> +And then we could have favoured his attempt<br /> +With sallies from the town.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> It could not be:<br /> +We were so close blocked up, that none could peep<br /> +Upon the walls and live. But yet 'tis time.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> No, 'tis too late; I will not hazard it:<br /> +On pain of death, let no man dare to sally.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">389</span><a id="page_389" name="page_389"></a> +<span class="cnm">Ped.</span> Oh envy, envy, how it works within him!<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /> +How now? what means this show?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> 'Tis a procession.<br /> +The queen is going to the great cathedral,<br /> +To pray for our success against the Moors.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> Very good: she usurps the throne, keeps +the old king in prison, and, at the same time, is +praying for a blessing. Oh religion and roguery, +how they go together!<br /> +<span class="sdr">[A Procession of Priests and Choristers in White, +with Tapers, followed by the Queen and Ladies, +goes over the Stage: the Choristers singing,</span><br /><br /><br /></p> + +<div class="poem"> +<div class="stanza pi"> +<p>Look down, ye blessed above, look down,</p> +<p class="i1">Behold our weeping matrons' tears,</p> +<p class="i1">Behold our tender virgins' fears,</p> +<p>And with success our armies crown.</p> +</div> +<div class="stanza pi"> +<p>Look down, ye blessed above, look down:</p> +<p class="i1">Oh! save us, save as, and our state restore;</p> +<p class="i1">For pity, pity, pity, we implore:</p> +<p class="dlg">For pity, pity, pity, we implore. +<span class="sdr">[The Procession goes off; and shout within. Then</span><br /><br /></p> +</div></div> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Lorenzo,</span> who kneels to <span class="cnm">Alphonso.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> [<span class="sdm">To Alph.</span>] A joyful cry; and see your son +Lorenzo. Good news, kind heaven!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> [<span class="sdm">To Lor.</span>]<br /> +O welcome, welcome! is the general safe?<br /> +How near our army? when shall we be succoured?<br /> +Or, are we succoured? are the Moors removed?<br /> +Answer these questions first, and then a thousand more;<br /> +Answer them all together.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Yes, when I have a thousand tongues, I will.<br /> +<span class="pgnm">390</span><a id="page_390" name="page_390"></a> +The general's well; his army too is safe,<br /> +As victory can make them. The Moors' king<br /> +Is safe enough, I warrant him, for one.<br /> +At dawn of day our general cleft his pate,<br /> +Spite of his woollen night-cap: a slight wound;<br /> +Perhaps he may recover.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Thou reviv'st me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> By my computation now, the victory was +gained before the procession was made for it; and +yet it will go hard but the priests will make a miracle +of it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Yes, faith; we came like bold intruding guests,<br /> +And took them unprepared to give us welcome.<br /> +Their scouts we killed, then found their body sleeping;<br /> +And as they lay confused, we stumbled o'er them,<br /> +And took what joint came next, arms, heads, or legs,<br /> +Somewhat indecently. But when men want light,<br /> +They make but bungling work.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> I'll to the queen,<br /> +And bear the news.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> That's young Lorenzo's duty.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> I'll spare his trouble.—<br /> +This Torrismond begins to grow too fast;<br /> +He must be mine, or ruined.<span class="sdr">[Aside, and Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Pedro a word:—[<span class="sdm">whisper.</span>]</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> How swift he shot away! I find it stung him,<br /> +In spite of his dissembling.<br /> +[<span class="sdm">To Lorenzo.</span>] How many of the enemy are slain?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Troth, sir, we were in haste, and could not stay<br /> +To score the men we killed; but there they lie:<br /> +Best send our women out to take the tale;<br /> +There's circumcision in abundance for them. +<span class="sdr">[Turns to <span class="cnm">Pedro</span> again.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">391</span><a id="page_391" name="page_391"></a> +<span class="cnm">Alph.</span> How far did you pursue them?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Some few miles.—<br /> +[<span class="sdm">To Pedro</span>] Good store of harlots, say you, and dog-cheap?<br /> +Pedro, they must be had, and speedily;<br /> +I've kept a tedious fast.<span class="sdr">[Whisper again.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> When will he make his entry? he deserves<br /> +Such triumphs as were given by ancient Rome:<br /> +Ha, boy, what say'st thou?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> As you say, sir, that Rome was very ancient.<br /> +[<span class="sdm">To Pedro.</span>] I leave the choice to you; fair, black, tall, low,<br /> +Let her but have a nose; and you may tell her,<br /> +I am rich in jewels, rings, and bobbing pearls,<br /> +Plucked from Moors' ears.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Lorenzo.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Somewhat busy<br /> +About affairs relating to the public.—<br /> +A seasonable girl, just in the nick now—<span class="sdr">[To Pedro.</span><br /> +<span class="sdr">[Trumpets within.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> I hear the general's trumpet. Stand and mark<br /> +How he will be received; I fear, but coldly.<br /> +There hung a cloud, methought, on Bertran's brow.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Then look to see a storm on Torrismond's;<br /> +Looks fright not men. The general has seen Moors<br /> +With as bad faces; no dispraise to Bertran's.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> 'Twas rumoured in the camp, he loves the queen.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> He drinks her health devoutly.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> That may breed bad blood betwixt him and Bertran.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> Yes, in private.<br /> +But Bertran has been taught the arts of court,<br /> +To gild a face with smiles, and leer a man to ruin,<br /> +O here they come.—</p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="pgnm">392</span><a id="page_392" name="page_392"></a> +Enter <span class="cnm">Torrismond</span> and Officers on one Side, <span class="cnm">Bertran</span> +attended on the other; they embrace, <span class="cnm">Bertran</span> +bowing low.</p> + +<p class="dlg">Just as I prophesied.—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Death and hell, he laughs at him!—in his face too.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> O you mistake him; 'twas an humble grin,<br /> +The fawning joy of courtiers and of dogs.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Here are nothing but lies to be expected: +I'll even go lose myself in some blind alley, and try +if any courteous damsel will think me worth the +finding.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Aside, and Exit.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Now he begins to open.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Your country rescued, and your queen relieved,—<br /> +A glorious conquest, noble Torrismond!<br /> +The people rend the skies with loud applause,<br /> +And heaven can hear no other name but yours.<br /> +The thronging crowds press on you as you pass,<br /> +And with their eager joy make triumph slow.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Torr.</span> My lord, I have no taste<br /> +Of popular applause; the noisy praise<br /> +Of giddy crowds, as changeable as winds;<br /> +Still vehement, and still without a cause;<br /> +Servant to chance, and blowing in the tide<br /> +Of swoln success; but veering with its ebb,<br /> +It leaves the channel dry.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> So young a stoick!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Torr.</span> You wrong me, if you think I'll sell one drop<br /> +Within these veins for pageants; but, let honour<br /> +Call for my blood, and sluice it into streams:<br /> +Turn fortune loose again to my pursuit,<br /> +And let me hunt her through embattled foes,<br /> +In dusty plains, amidst the cannons' roar,<br /> +There will I be the first.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> I'll try him farther.—<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /> +<span class="pgnm">393</span><a id="page_393" name="page_393"></a> +Suppose the assembled states of Arragon<br /> +Decree a statue to you, thus inscribed:<br /> +"To Torrismond, who freed his native land."</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> [<span class="sdm">To Ped.</span>]<br /> +Mark how he sounds and fathoms him,<br /> +To find the shallows of his soul!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> The just applause<br /> +Of god-like senates, is the stamp of virtue,<br /> +Which makes it pass unquestioned through the world.<br /> +These honours you deserve; nor shall my suffrage<br /> +Be last to fix them on you. If refused,<br /> +You brand us all with black ingratitude:<br /> +For times to come shall say,—Our Spain, like Rome,<br /> +Neglects her champions after noble acts,<br /> +And lets their laurels wither on their heads.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Torr.</span> A statue, for a battle blindly fought,<br /> +Where darkness and surprise made conquest cheap!<br /> +Where virtue borrowed but the arms of chance,<br /> +And struck a random blow!—'Twas fortune's work,<br /> +And fortune take the praise.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Yet happiness<br /> +Is the first fame. Virtue without success<br /> +Is a fair picture shewn by an ill light;<br /> +But lucky men are favourites of heaven:<br /> +And whom should kings esteem above heaven's darlings?<br /> +The praises of a young and beauteous queen<br /> +Shall crown your glorious acts.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> [<span class="sdm">To Alph.</span>] There sprung the mine.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Torr.</span> The queen! that were a happiness too great!<br /> +Named you the queen, my lord?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Yes: you have seen her, and you must confess,<br /> +A praise, a smile, a look from her is worth<br /> +The shouts of thousand amphitheatres.<br /> +She, she shall praise you, for I can oblige her:<br /> +To-morrow will deliver all her charms<br /> +<span class="pgnm">394</span><a id="page_394" name="page_394"></a> +Into my arms, and make her mine for ever.—<br /> +Why stand you mute?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Torr.</span> Alas! I cannot speak.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Not speak, my lord! How were your thoughts employed?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Torr.</span> Nor can I think, or I am lost in thought.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Thought of the queen, perhaps?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Torr.</span> Why, if it were,<br /> +Heaven may be thought on, though too high to climb.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> O, now I find where your ambition drives!<br /> +You ought not to think of her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Torr.</span> So I say too,<br /> +I ought not; madmen ought not to be mad;<br /> +But who can help his frenzy?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Fond young man!<br /> +The wings of your ambition must be clipt:<br /> +Your shame-faced virtue shunned the people's praise,<br /> +And senate's honours: But 'tis well we know<br /> +What price you hold yourself at. You have fought<br /> +With some success, and that has sealed your pardon.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Torr.</span> Pardon from thee!—O, give me patience, heaven!—<br /> +Thrice vanquished Bertran, if thou dar'st, look out<br /> +Upon yon slaughtered host, that field of blood;<br /> +There seal my pardon, where thy fame was lost.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> He's ruined, past redemption!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> [<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Torr.</span></span>] Learn respect<br /> +To the first prince of the blood.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> O, let him rave!<br /> +I'll not contend with madmen.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Torr.</span> I have done:<br /> +I know, 'twas madness to declare this truth:<br /> +And yet, 'twere baseness to deny my love.<br /> +'Tis true, my hopes are vanishing as clouds;<br /> +Lighter than children's bubbles blown by winds:<br /> +My merit's but the rash result of chance;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">395</span><a id="page_395" name="page_395"></a> +My birth unequal; all the stars against me:<br /> +Power, promise, choice, the living and the dead;<br /> +Mankind my foes; and only love to friend:<br /> +But such a love, kept at such awful distance,<br /> +As, what it loudly dares to tell a rival,<br /> +Shall fear to whisper there. Queens may be loved,<br /> +And so may gods; else why are altars raised?<br /> +Why shines the sun, but that he may be viewed?<br /> +But, oh! when he's too bright, if then we gaze,<br /> +'Tis but to weep, and close our eyes in darkness.<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> 'Tis well; the goddess shall be told, she shall,<br /> +Of her new worshipper.<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> So, here's fine work!<br /> +He has supplied his only foe with arms<br /> +For his destruction. Old Penelope's tale<br /> +Inverted; he has unravelled all by day,<br /> +That he has done by night. What, planet struck!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> I wish I were; to be past sense of this!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> Would I had but a lease of life so long,<br /> +As 'till my flesh and blood rebelled this way,<br /> +Against our sovereign lady;—mad for a queen?<br /> +With a globe in one hand, and a sceptre in t'other?<br /> +A very pretty moppet!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Then to declare his madness to his rival!<br /> +His father absent on an embassy;<br /> +Himself a stranger almost; wholly friendless!<br /> +A torrent, rolling down a precipice,<br /> +Is easier to be stopt, than is his ruin.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> 'Tis fruitless to complain; haste to the court;<br /> +Improve your interest there for pardon from the queen.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Weak remedies;<br /> +But all must be attempted.<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<div><span class="pgnm">396</span><a id="page_396" name="page_396"></a></div> + +<h4 class="scn">SCENE II.</h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Lorenzo.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Well, I am the most unlucky rogue! I have +been ranging over half the town; but have sprung +no game. Our women are worse infidels than the +Moors: I told them I was one of the knight-errants, +that delivered them from ravishment; and +I think in my conscience, that is their quarrel to +me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> Is this a time for fooling? Your cousin is +run honourably mad in love with her majesty; he +is split upon a rock, and you, who are in chase of +harlots, are sinking in the main ocean. I think, +the devil's in the family.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> [<span class="sdm">Solus.</span>] My cousin ruined, says he! hum, +not that I wish my kinsman's ruin; that were unchristian: +but, if the general is ruined, I am heir; +there's comfort for a Christian! Money I have; I +thank the honest Moors for it; but I want a mistress. +I am willing to be lewd; but the tempter is +wanting on his part.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Elvira,</span> veiled.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Stranger! Cavalier!—will you not hear +me? you Moor-killer, you Matador!—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Meaning me, madam?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Face about, man! you a soldier, and afraid +of the enemy!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> I must confess, I did not expect to have been +charged first: I see souls will not be lost for want +of diligence in this devil's reign. [<i>Aside.</i>] Now, +Madam Cynthia, behind a cloud, your will and +pleasure with me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> You have the appearance of a cavalier; and +if you are as deserving as you seem, perhaps you +may not repent of your adventure. If a lady like +<span class="pgnm">397</span><a id="page_397" name="page_397"></a> +you well enough to hold discourse with you at first +sight; you are gentleman enough, I hope, to help +her out with an apology, and to lay the blame on +stars, or destiny, or what you please, to excuse the +frailty of a woman?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> O, I love an easy woman! there's such ado, +to crack a thick-shelled mistress; we break our +teeth, and find no kernel. 'Tis generous in you, to +take pity on a stranger, and not to suffer him to +fall into ill hands at his first arrival.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> You may have a better opinion of me than I +deserve; you have not seen me yet; and, therefore, I +am confident you are heart-whole.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Not absolutely slain, I must confess; but I +am drawing on apace: you have a dangerous tongue +in your head, I can tell you that; and if your eyes +prove of as killing metal, there is but one way with +me. Let me see you, for the safeguard of my honour; +'tis but decent the cannon should be drawn +down upon me before I yield.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> What a terrible similitude have you made, +colonel, to shew that you are inclining to the wars? +I could answer you with another in my profession: +Suppose you were in want of money, would +you not be glad to take a sum upon content in a +sealed bag, without peeping?—but, however, I will +not stand with you for a sample.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Lifts up her veil.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> What eyes were there! how keen their +glances! you do well to keep them veiled; they +are too sharp to be trusted out of the scabbard.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Perhaps now, you may accuse my forwardness; +but this day of jubilee is the only time +of freedom I have had; and there is nothing so extravagant +as a prisoner, when he gets loose a little, +and is immediately to return into his fetters.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> To confess freely to you, madam, I was never +in love with less than your whole sex before; +but now I have seen you, I am in the direct road +<span class="pgnm">398</span><a id="page_398" name="page_398"></a> +of languishing and sighing; and, if love goes on as +it begins, for aught I know, by to-morrow morning +you may hear of me in rhyme and sonnet. I +tell you truly, I do not like these symptoms in myself. +Perhaps I may go shufflingly at first; for I +was never before walked in trammels; yet, I shall +drudge and moil at constancy, till I have worn off +the hitching in my pace.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Oh, sir, there are arts to reclaim the wildest +men, as there are to make spaniels fetch and carry: +chide them often, and feed them seldom. Now I +know your temper, you may thank yourself, if you +are kept to hard meat. You are in for years, if you +make love to me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> I hate a formal obligation with an <i>Anno +Domini</i> at end on't; there may be an evil meaning +in the word years, called matrimony.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> I can easily rid you of that fear: I wish +I could rid myself as easily of the bondage.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Then you are married?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> If a covetous, and a jealous, and an old man +be a husband.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Three as good qualities for my purpose as I +could wish: now love be praised!</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Elvira's</span> Duenna, and whispers to her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] If I get not home before my husband, +I shall be ruined. [<span class="sdm">To him.</span>] I dare not stay +to tell you where. Farewell!—Could I once more—<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> This is unconscionable dealing; to be made +a slave, and know not whose livery I wear. Who +have we yonder?</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Gomez.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg">By that shambling in his walk, it should be my rich +<span class="pgnm">399</span><a id="page_399" name="page_399"></a> +old banker, Gomez, whom I knew at Barcelona: As +I live 'tis he!—What, old Mammon here!<br /> +<span class="sdr">[To <span class="cnm">Gomez.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> How! young Beelzebub?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> What devil has set his claws in thy haunches, +and brought thee hither to Saragossa? Sure +he meant a farther journey with thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> I always remove before the enemy: When +the Moors are ready to besiege one town, I shift +quarters to the next; I keep as far from the infidels +as I can.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> That's but a hair's breadth at farthest.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Well, you have got a famous victory; all +true subjects are overjoyed at it: There are bonfires +decreed; an the times had not been hard, my +billet should have burnt too.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> I dare say for thee, thou hast such a respect +for a single billet, thou wouldst almost have thrown +on thyself to save it; thou art for saving every +thing but thy soul.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Well, well, you'll not believe me generous, +'till I carry you to the tavern, and crack half a pint +with you at my own charges.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> No; I'll keep thee from hanging thyself +for such an extravagance; and, instead of it, thou +shalt do me a mere verbal courtesy. I have just +now seen a most incomparable young lady.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Whereabouts did you see this most incomparable +young lady?—My mind misgives me plaguily.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Here, man, just before this corner-house: +Pray heaven, it prove no bawdy-house.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Pray heaven, he does not make it +one!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> What dost thou mutter to thyself? Hast +thou any thing to say against the honesty of that +house?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">400</span><a id="page_400" name="page_400"></a> +<span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Not I, colonel; the walls are very honest +stone, and the timber very honest wood, for aught +I know; but for the woman, I cannot say, till I +know her better: Describe her person, and, if she +live in this quarter, I may give you tidings of her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> She is of a middle stature, dark-coloured hair, +the most bewitching leer with her eyes, the most +roguish cast! her cheeks are dimpled when she +smiles, and her smiles would tempt an hermit.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] I am dead, I am buried, I am +damned.—Go on, colonel; have you no other marks +of her?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Thou hast all her marks; but she has a +husband, a jealous, covetous, old hunks: Speak! +canst thou tell me news of her?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Yes; this news, colonel, that you have +seen your last of her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> If thou help'st me not to the knowledge of +her, thou art a circumcised Jew.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Circumcise me no more than I circumcise +you, colonel Hernando: Once more, you have seen +your last of her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] I am glad he knows me only by +that name of Hernando, by which I went at Barcelona; +now he can tell no tales of me to my father.—[<span class="sdm">To +him.</span>] Come, thou wer't ever good-natured, +when thou couldst get by it—Look here, rogue; +'tis of the right damning colour: Thou art not +proof against gold, sure!—Do not I know thee for +a covetous—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Jealous old hunks? those were the marks +of your mistress's husband, as I remember, colonel.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Oh the devil! What a rogue in understanding +was I, not to find him out sooner!<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Do, do, look sillily, good colonel; 'tis a +decent melancholy after an absolute defeat.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Faith, not for that, clear Gomez; but—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">401</span><a id="page_401" name="page_401"></a> +<span class="cnm">Gom.</span> But—no pumping, my dear colonel.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Hang pumping! I was thinking a little upon +a point of gratitude. We two have been long +acquaintance; I know thy merits, and can make +some interest;—Go to; thou wert born to authority; +I'll make thee Alcaide, Mayor of Saragossa.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Satisfy yourself; you shall not make me +what you think, colonel.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Faith, but I will; thou hast the face of a +magistrate already.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> And you would provide me with a magistrate's +head to my magistrate's face; I thank you, +colonel.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Come, thou art so suspicious upon an idle +story! That woman I saw, I mean that little, +crooked, ugly woman,—for t'other was a lie,—is +no more thy wife,—As I'll go home with thee, and +satisfy thee immediately, my dear friend.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> I shall not put you to that trouble; no, not +so much as a single visit; not so much as an embassy +by a civil old woman, nor a serenade of <i>twinkledum +twinkledum</i> under my windows; nay, I will +advise you, out of my tenderness to your person, +that you walk not near yon corner-house by night; +for, to my certain knowledge, there are blunderbusses +planted in every loop-hole, that go off constantly +of their own accord, at the squeaking of a fiddle, +and the thrumming of a guitar.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Art thou so obstinate? Then I denounce +open war against thee; I'll demolish thy citadel by +force; or, at least, I'll bring my whole regiment +upon thee; my thousand red locusts, that shall devour +thee in free quarters. Farewell, wrought night-cap.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Lorenzo.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Farewell, Buff. Free quarters for a regiment +of red-coat locusts? I hope to see them all in the +Red-Sea first! But oh, this Jezabel of mine! I'll +<span class="pgnm">402</span><a id="page_402" name="page_402"></a> +get a physician that shall prescribe her an ounce of +camphire every morning, for her breakfast, to abate +incontinency. She shall never peep abroad, no, not +to church for confession; and, for never going, she +shall be condemned for a heretic. She shall have +stripes by Troy weight, and sustenance by drachms +and scruples: Nay, I'll have a fasting almanack, +printed on purpose for her use, in which<br /> +<span class="i1">No Carnival nor Christmas shall appear,</span><br /> +<span class="i1">But lents and ember-weeks shall fill the year.</span><span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT II.<br /> +SCENE I.—<i>The Queen's Antechamber.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Alphonso</span> and <span class="cnm">Pedro.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> When saw you my Lorenzo?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> I had a glimpse of him; but he shot by me,<br /> +Like a young hound upon a burning scent;<br /> +He's gone a harlot-hunting.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> His foreign breeding might have taught him better.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> 'Tis that has taught him this.<br /> +What learn our youth abroad, but to refine<br /> +The homely vices of their native land?<br /> +Give me an honest home-spun country clown<br /> +Of our own growth; his dulness is but plain,<br /> +But theirs embroidered; they are sent out fools,<br /> +But come back fops.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> You know what reasons urged me;<br /> +But now, I have accomplished my designs,<br /> +I should be glad he knew them. His wild riots<br /> +Disturb my soul; but they would sit more close,<br /> +Did not the threatened downfal of our house,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">403</span><a id="page_403" name="page_403"></a> +In Torrismond, o'erwhelm my private ills.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Bertran,</span> attended, and whispering +with a Courtier, aside.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> I would not have her think, he dared to love her;<br /> +If he presume to own it, she's so proud,<br /> +He tempts his certain ruin.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> [<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Ped.</span></span>] +Mark how disdainfully he throws his eyes on us.<br /> +Our old imprisoned king wore no such looks.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> O! would the general shake off his dotage to the usurping queen,<br /> +And re-enthrone good venerable Sancho,<br /> +I'll undertake, should Bertran sound his trumpets,<br /> +And Torrismond but whistle through his fingers,<br /> +He draws his army off.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> I told him so;<br /> +But had an answer louder than a storm.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> Now, plague and pox on his smock-loyalty!<br /> +I hate to see a brave bold fellow sotted,<br /> +Made sour and senseless, turned to whey by love;<br /> +A drivelling hero, fit for a romance.—<br /> +O, here he comes! what will their greetings be?</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Torrismond,</span> attended; <span class="cnm">Bertran</span> and he +meet and jostle.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Make way, my lords, and let the pageant pass.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> I make my way, where'er I see my foe;<br /> +But you, my lord, are good at a retreat.<br /> +I have no Moors behind me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Death and hell!<br /> +Dare to speak thus when you come out again.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Dare to provoke me thus, insulting man!</p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="pgnm">404</span><a id="page_404" name="page_404"></a> +Enter <span class="cnm">Teresa.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ter.</span> My lords, you are too loud so near the queen;<br /> +You, Torrismond, have much offended her.<br /> +'Tis her command you instantly appear,<br /> +To answer your demeanour to the prince. +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Teresa; Bertran,</span> with his company, +follow her.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> O, Pedro, O, Alphonso, pity me!<br /> +A grove of pikes,<br /> +Whose polished steel from far severely shines,<br /> +Are not so dreadful as this beauteous queen.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Call up your courage timely to your aid,<br /> +And, like a lion, pressed upon the toils,<br /> +Leap on your hunters. Speak your actions boldly;<br /> +There is a time when modest virtue is<br /> +Allowed to praise itself.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> Heart! you were hot enough, too hot, but now;<br /> +Your fury then boiled upward to a foam;<br /> +But since this message came, you sink and settle,<br /> +As if cold water had been poured upon you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Alas! thou know'st not what it is to love!<br /> +When we behold an angel, not to fear,<br /> +Is to be impudent: No, I am resolved,<br /> +Like a led victim, to my death I'll go,<br /> +And, dying, bless the hand, that gave the blow.<span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn">The <span class="cnm">Scene</span> draws, and shews the Queen sitting in +state; <span class="cnm">Bertran</span> standing next to her; then <span class="cnm">Teresa,</span> +&c. She rises, and comes to the front.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leonora.</span> [<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Bert.</span></span>]<br /> +I blame not you, my lord; my father's will,<br /> +Your own deserts, and all my people's voice,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">405</span><a id="page_405" name="page_405"></a> +Have placed you in the view of sovereign power.<br /> +But I would learn the cause, why Torrismond,<br /> +Within my palace-walls, within my hearing,<br /> +Almost within my sight,—affronts a prince,<br /> +Who shortly shall command him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> He thinks you owe him more than you can pay;<br /> +And looks as he were lord of human kind.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Torrismond, Alphonso, Pedro. Torrismond</span> +bows low, then looks earnestly on the Queen, +and keeps at Distance.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Teresa.</span> Madam, the general.—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Let me view him well.<br /> +My father sent him early to the frontiers;<br /> +I have not often seen him; if I did,<br /> +He passed unmarked by my unheeding eyes:—<br /> +But where's the fierceness, the disdainful pride,<br /> +The haughty port, the fiery arrogance?—<br /> +By all these marks, this is not, sure, the man.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Yet this is he, who filled your court with tumult,<br /> +Whose fierce demeanour, and whose insolence,<br /> +The patience of a god could not support.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Name his offence, my lord, and he shall have<br /> +Immediate punishment.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> 'Tis of so high a nature, should I speak it,<br /> +That my presumption then would equal his.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Some one among you speak.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> Now my tongue itches.<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> All dumb! On your allegiance, Torrismond,<br /> +By all your hopes, I do command you, speak.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> [<span class="sdm">Kneeling.</span>]<br /> +O seek not to convince me of a crime,<br /> +Which I can ne'er repent, nor can you pardon;<br /> +Or, if you needs will know it, think, oh think,<br /> +That he who, thus commanded, dares to speak,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">406</span><a id="page_406" name="page_406"></a> +Unless commanded, would have died in silence.<br /> +But you adjured me, madam, by my hopes!<br /> +Hopes I have none, for I am all despair;<br /> +Friends I have none, for friendship follows favour;<br /> +Desert I've none, for what I did was duty:—<br /> +Oh that it were!—that it were duty all!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Why do you pause? proceed.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> As one, condemned to leap a precipice,<br /> +Who sees before his eyes the depth below,<br /> +Stops short, and looks about for some kind shrub<br /> +To break his dreadful fall.—so I—<br /> +But whither am I going? If to death,<br /> +He looks so lovely sweet in beauty's pomp,<br /> +He draws me to his dart.—I dare no more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> He's mad, beyond the cure of hellebore.<br /> +Whips, darkness, dungeons, for this insolence.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Mad as I am, yet I know when to bear.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> You're both too bold.—You, Torrismond, withdraw,<br /> +I'll teach you all what's owing to your queen.—<br /> +For you, my lord,—<br /> +The priest to-morrow was to join our hands;<br /> +I'll try if I can live a day without you.—<br /> +So both of you depart, and live in peace.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Who knows which way she points?<br /> +Doubling and turning like an hunted hare;—<br /> +Find out the meaning of her mind who can.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Pedr.</span> Who ever found a woman's? backward and forward,<br /> +The whole sex in every word. In my conscience, +when she was getting, her mother was thinking of +a riddle.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt all but the Queen and <span class="cnm">Teresa.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Haste, my Teresa, haste, and call him back.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ter.</span> Whom, madam?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ter.</span> Prince Bertran?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">407</span><a id="page_407" name="page_407"></a> +<span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Torrismond;<br /> +There is no other he.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ter.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] A rising sun,<br /> +Or I am much deceived.<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Teresa.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> A change so swift what heart did ever feel!<br /> +It rushed upon me like a mighty stream,<br /> +And bore me, in a moment, far from shore.<br /> +I loved away myself; in one short hour<br /> +Already am I gone an age of passion.<br /> +Was it his youth, his valour, or success?<br /> +These might, perhaps, be found in other men:<br /> +'Twas that respect, that awful homage, paid me;<br /> +That fearful love, which trembled in his eyes,<br /> +And with a silent earthquake shook his soul.<br /> +But, when he spoke, what tender words he said!<br /> +So softly, that, like flakes of feathered snow,<br /> +They melted as they fell.—</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Teresa</span> with <span class="cnm">Torrismond.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ter.</span> He waits your pleasure.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> 'Tis well; retire.—Oh heavens, that I must speak<br /> +So distant from my heart!—<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /> +[<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Tor.</span></span>] How now! What boldness brings you back again?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> I heard 'twas your command.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> A fond mistake,<br /> +To credit so unlikely a command;<br /> +And you return, full of the same presumption,<br /> +To affront me with your love!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> If 'tis presumption, for a wretch condemned,<br /> +To throw himself beneath his judge's feet:<br /> +A boldness more than this I never knew;<br /> +Or, if I did, 'twas only to your foes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> You would insinuate your past services,<br /> +And those, I grant, were great; but you confess<br /> +A fault committed since, that cancels all.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">408</span><a id="page_408" name="page_408"></a> +<span class="cnm">Tor.</span> And who could dare to disavow his crime,<br /> +When that, for which he is accused and seized,<br /> +He bears about him still! My eyes confess it;<br /> +My every action speaks my heart aloud:<br /> +But, oh, the madness of my high attempt<br /> +Speaks louder yet! and all together cry,—<br /> +I love and I despair.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Have you not heard,<br /> +My father, with his dying voice, bequeathed<br /> +My crown and me to Bertran? And dare you,<br /> +A private man, presume to love a queen?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> That, that's the wound! I see you set so high,<br /> +As no desert or services can reach.—<br /> +Good heavens, why gave you me a monarch's soul,<br /> +And crusted it with base plebeian clay?<br /> +Why gave you me desires of such extent,<br /> +And such a span to grasp them? Sure, my lot<br /> +By some o'er-hasty angel was misplaced<br /> +In fate's eternal volume!—But I rave,<br /> +And, like a giddy bird in dead of night,<br /> +Fly round the fire that scorches me to death.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Yet, Torrismond, you've not so ill deserved,<br /> +But I may give you counsel for your cure.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> I cannot, nay, I wish not to be cured.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Nor I, heaven knows!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> There is a pleasure, sure,<br /> +In being mad, which none but madmen know!<br /> +Let me indulge it; let me gaze for ever!<br /> +And, since you are too great to be beloved,<br /> +Be greater, greater yet, and be adored.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> These are the words which I must only hear<br /> +From Bertran's mouth; they should displease from you:<br /> +I say they should; but women are so vain,<br /> +To like the love, though they despise the lover.<br /> +Yet, that I may not send you from my sight<br /> +In absolute despair,—I pity you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">409</span><a id="page_409" name="page_409"></a> +<span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Am I then pitied! I have lived enough!—<br /> +Death, take me in this moment of my joy;<br /> +But, when my soul is plunged in long oblivion,<br /> +Spare this one thought! let me remember pity,<br /> +And, so deceived, think all my life was blessed.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> What if I add a little to my alms?<br /> +If that would help, I could cast in a tear<br /> +To your misfortunes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> A tear! You have o'erbid all my past sufferings,<br /> +And all my future too!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Were I no queen—<br /> +Or you of royal blood—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> What have I lost by my forefathers' fault!<br /> +Why was not I the twentieth by descent<br /> +From a long restive race of droning kings?<br /> +Love! what a poor omnipotence hast thou,<br /> +When gold and titles buy thee?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> [<span class="sdm">Sighs.</span>] Oh, my torture!—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Might I presume,—but, oh, I dare not hope<br /> +That sigh was added to your alms for me!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> I give you leave to guess, and not forbid you<br /> +To make the best construction for your love:<br /> +Be secret and discreet; these fairy favours<br /> +Are lost, when not concealed<a class="ftnt" href="#Spani_4-1">[1]</a>.—provoke not Bertran.—<br /> +Retire: I must no more but this,—Hope, Torrismond.<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> She bids me hope; oh heavens, she pities me!<br /> +And pity still foreruns approaching love,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">410</span><a id="page_410" name="page_410"></a> +As lightning does the thunder! Tune your harps,<br /> +Ye angels, to that sound; and thou, my heart,<br /> +Make room to entertain thy flowing joy.<br /> +Hence, all my griefs and every anxious care;<br /> +One word, and one kind glance, can cure despair.<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">SCENE II.—<i>A Chamber. A Table and Wine set out.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Lorenzo.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> This may hit; 'tis more than barely possible; +for friars have free admittance into every +house. This jacobin, whom I have sent to, is her +confessor; and who can suspect a man of such reverence +for a pimp? I'll try for once; I'll bribe him +high; for commonly none love money better than +they, who have made a vow of poverty.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter Servant.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Serv.</span> There's a huge, fat, religious gentleman +coming up, sir. He says he's but a friar, but he's big +enough to be a pope; his gills are as rosy as a turkey +cock's; his great belly walks in state before +him, like an harbinger; and his gouty legs come +limping after it: Never was such a ton of devotion +seen.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Bring him in, and vanish.<span class="sdr">[Exit Servant.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter Father <span class="cnm">Dominick.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Welcome, father.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Peace be here: I thought I had been sent +for to a dying man; to have fitted him for another +world.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> No, faith, father, I was never for taking +such long journeys. Repose yourself, I beseech you, +<span class="pgnm">411</span><a id="page_411" name="page_411"></a> +sir, if those spindle legs of yours will carry you to +the next chair.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> I am old, I am infirm, I must confess, with +fasting.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> 'Tis a sign by your wan complexion, and +your thin jowls, father. Come, to our better acquaintance:—here's +a sovereign remedy for old age +and sorrow.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Drinks.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> The looks of it are indeed alluring: I'll do +you reason.<span class="sdr">[Drinks.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Is it to your palate, father?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Second thoughts, they say, are best: I'll +consider of it once again. [<span class="sdm">Drinks.</span>] It has a most +delicious flavour with it. Gad forgive me, I have +forgotten to drink your health, Son, I am not used +to be so unmannerly.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Drinks again.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> No, I'll be sworn, by what I see of you, you +are not:—To the bottom;—I warrant him a true +church-man.—Now, father, to our business: 'tis +agreeable to your calling; I do intend to do an act +of charity.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> And I love to hear of charity; 'tis a comfortable +subject.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Being in the late battle, in great hazard of +my life, I recommended my person to good Saint +Dominick.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> You could not have pitched upon a better; +he's a sure card; I never knew him fail his votaries.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Troth, I also made bold to strike up a bargain +with him, that, if I escaped with life and plunder, +I would present some brother of his order with +part of the booty taken from the infidels, to be employed +in charitable uses.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> There you hit him; Saint Dominick loves +<span class="pgnm">412</span><a id="page_412" name="page_412"></a> +charity exceedingly; that argument never fails with +him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> The spoils were mighty; and I scorn to +wrong him of a farthing. To make short my story; +I inquired among the jacobins for an almoner, +and the general fame has pointed out your reverence +as the worthiest man:—here are fifty good +pieces in this purse.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> How, fifty pieces? 'tis too much, too much +in conscience.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Here, take them, father.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> No, in troth, I dare not; do not tempt me +to break my vow of poverty.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> If you are modest, I must force you; for I +am strongest.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Nay, if you compel me, there's no contending; +but, will you set your strength against a decrepit, +poor, old man? [<span class="sdm">Takes the Purse.</span>] As I said, +'tis too great a bounty; but Saint Dominick shall +owe you another scape: I'll put him in mind of you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> If you please, father, we will not trouble +him 'till the next battle. But you may do me a +greater kindness, by conveying my prayers to a female +saint.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> A female saint! good now, good now, how +your devotions jump with mine! I always loved the +female saints.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> I mean, a female, mortal, married-woman-saint: +Look upon the superscription of this note; +you know Don Gomez's wife.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Gives him a Letter.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Who? Donna Elvira? I think I have some +reason; I am her ghostly father.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> I have some business of importance with her, +which I have communicated in this paper; but her +husband is so horribly given to be jealous,—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Ho, jealous? he's the very quintessence of +<span class="pgnm">413</span><a id="page_413" name="page_413"></a> +jealousy; he keeps no male creature in his house; +and from abroad he lets no man come near her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Excepting you, father.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Me, I grant you; I am her director and +her guide in spiritual affairs: But he has his humours +with me too; for t'other day he called me +false apostle.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Did he so? that reflects upon you all; on +my word, father, that touches your copy-hold. If +you would do a meritorious action, you might revenge +the church's quarrel.—My letter, father,—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Well, so far as a letter, I will take upon +me; for what can I refuse to a man so charitably +given?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> If you bring an answer back, that purse in +your hand has a twin-brother, as like him as ever +he can look; there are fifty pieces lie dormant in it, +for more charities.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> That must not be; not a farthing more, +upon my priesthood.—But what may be the purport +and meaning of this letter? that, I confess, a +little troubles me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> No harm, I warrant you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Well, you are a charitable man; and I'll +take your word: my comfort is, I know not the +contents; and so far I am blameless. But an answer +you shall have; though not for the sake of +your fifty pieces more: I have sworn not to take +them; they shall not be altogether fifty. Your +mistress—forgive me, that I should call her your +mistress, I meant Elvira,—lives but at next door: +I'll visit her immediately; but not a word more of +the nine-and-forty pieces.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Nay, I'll wait on you down stairs.—Fifty +pounds for the postage of a letter! to send by the +church is certainly the dearest road in Christendom.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span><br /></p> + +<div><span class="pgnm">414</span><a id="page_414" name="page_414"></a></div> + +<h4 class="scn">SCENE III.—<i>A Chamber.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Gomez</span> and <span class="cnm">Elvira.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Henceforth I banish flesh and wine: I'll +have none stirring within these walls these twelve +months.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> I care not; the sooner I am starved, the +sooner I am rid of wedlock. I shall learn the knack +to fast o' days; you have used me to fasting nights +already.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> How the gipsey answers me! Oh, 'tis a +most notorious hilding.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> [<span class="sdm">Crying.</span>] But was ever poor innocent creature +so hardly dealt with, for a little harmless chat?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Oh, the impudence of this wicked sex! +Lascivious dialogues are innocent with you!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Was it such a crime to inquire how the +battle passed?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> But that was not the business, gentlewoman: +you were not asking news of a battle passed; +you were engaging for a skirmish that was to come.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> An honest woman would be glad to hear, +that her honour was safe, and her enemies were +slain.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> [<span class="sdm">In her tone.</span>] And to ask, if he were wounded +in your defence; and, in case he were, to offer +yourself to be his chirurgeon;—then, you did not +describe your husband to him, for a covetous, jealous, +rich, old hunks.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> No, I need not; he describes himself sufficiently: +but, in what dream did I do this?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> You walked in your sleep, with your eyes +broad open, at noon-day; and dreamt you were +talking to the foresaid purpose with one Colonel +Hernando—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">415</span><a id="page_415" name="page_415"></a> +<span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Who, dear husband, who?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> What the devil have I said?—You would +have farther information, would you?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> No; but my dear, little, old man, tell me +now, that I may avoid him for your sake.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Get you up into your chamber, cockatrice; +and there immure yourself; be confined, I say, during +our royal pleasure. But, first, down on your +marrowbones, upon your allegiance, and make an +acknowledgement of your offences; for I will have +ample satisfaction.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Pulls her down.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> I have done you no injury, and therefore +I'll make you no submission: but I'll complain to +my ghostly father.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Ay, there's your remedy; when you receive +condign punishment, you run with open mouth to +your confessor; that parcel of holy guts and garbadge: +he must chuckle you and moan you; but +I'll rid my hands of his ghostly authority one day, +[<span class="sdm">Enter <span class="cnm">Dominick.</span></span>] and make him know he's the +son of a—[<span class="sdm">Sees him.</span>] So;—no sooner conjure, +but the devil's in the circle.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Son of a what, Don Gomez?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Why, a son of a church; I hope there's no +harm in that, father?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> I will lay up your words for you, till time +shall serve; and to-morrow I enjoin you to fast, for +penance.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> There's no harm in that; she shall fast too: +fasting saves money.<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> [<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Elvira.</span></span>] What was the reason that I +found you upon your knees, in that unseemly posture?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> O horrible! to find a woman upon her +knees, he says, is an unseemly posture; there's a +priest for you!<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">416</span><a id="page_416" name="page_416"></a> +<span class="cnm">Elv.</span> [<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Dom.</span></span>] I wish, father, you would give +me an opportunity of entertaining you in private: +I have somewhat upon my spirits that presses me +exceedingly.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> This goes well: [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Gomez, stand you +at a distance,—farther yet,—stand out of ear shot;—I +have somewhat to say to your wife in private.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Was ever man thus priest-ridden? would +the steeple of his church were in his belly: I am +sure there's room for it.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> I am ashamed to acknowledge my infirmities; +but you have been always an indulgent father, +and therefore I will venture to—and yet I dare +not!—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Nay, if you are bashful;—if you keep your +wound from the knowledge of your surgeon,—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> You know my husband is a man in years; +but he's my husband, and therefore I shall be silent; +but his humours are more intolerable than his +age: he's grown so froward, so covetous, and so jealous, +that he has turned my heart quite from him; +and, if I durst confess it, has forced me to cast my +affections on another man.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Good:—hold, hold; I meant abominable.—Pray +heaven this may be my colonel!<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> I have seen this man, father, and have encouraged +his addresses; he's a young gentleman, a +soldier, of a most winning carriage: and what his +courtship may produce at last, I know not; but I +am afraid of my own frailty.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> 'Tis he, for certain;—she has saved the credit +of my function, by speaking first; now must I +take gravity upon me.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> This whispering bodes me no good, for certain; +but he has me so plaguily under the lash, that +I dare not interrupt him.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">417</span><a id="page_417" name="page_417"></a> +<span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Daughter, daughter, do you remember your +matrimonial vow?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Yes, to my sorrow, father, I do remember +it; a miserable woman it has made me: but you +know, father, a marriage-vow is but a thing of +course, which all women take when they would get +a husband.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> A vow is a very solemn thing; and 'tis +good to keep it: but, notwithstanding, it may be +broken upon some occasions. Have you striven +with all your might against this frailty?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Yes, I have striven; but I found it was +against the stream. Love, you know, father, is a +great vow-maker; but he's a greater vow-breaker.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> 'Tis your duty to strive always; but, notwithstanding, +when we have done our utmost, it +extenuates the sin.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> I can hold no longer.—Now, gentlewoman, +you are confessing your enormities; I know +it, by that hypocritical downcast look:—enjoin her +to sit bare upon a bed of nettles, father; you can +do no less, in conscience.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Hold your peace; are you growing malapert? +will you force me to make use of my authority? +your wife's a well disposed and a virtuous lady; +I say it, <i>In verbo sacerdotis.</i></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> I know not what to do, father; I find myself +in a most desperate condition; and so is the +colonel, for love of me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> The colonel, say you! I wish it be not the +same young gentleman I know. 'Tis a gallant +young man, I must confess, worthy of any lady's +love in Christendom,—in a lawful way, I mean: of +such a charming behaviour, so bewitching to a woman's +eye, and, furthermore, so charitably given; +by all good tokens, this must be my colonel Hernando.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">418</span><a id="page_418" name="page_418"></a> +<span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Ay, and my colonel too, father:—I am overjoyed!—and +are you then acquainted with him?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Acquainted with him! why, he haunts me +up and down; and, I am afraid, it is for love of +you; for he pressed a letter upon me, within this +hour, to deliver to you. I confess I received it, +lest he should send it by some other; but with full +resolution never to put it into your hands.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Oh, dear father, let me have it, or I shall +die!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Whispering still! A pox of your close committee! +I'll listen, I'm resolved.<span class="sdr">[Steals nearer.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Nay, if you are obstinately bent to see it, +use your discretion; but, for my part, I wash my +hands of it.—What makes you listening there? +get farther off; I preach not to thee, thou wicked +eaves dropper.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> I'll kneel down, father, as if I were taking +absolution, if you'll but please to stand before me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> At your peril be it then. I have told you +the ill consequences; <i>et liberavi animam meam.</i> +Your reputation is in danger, to say nothing of your +soul. Notwithstanding, when the spiritual means +have been applied, and fail, in that case the carnal +may be used. You are a tender child, you are, and +must not be put into despair; your heart is as soft +and melting as your hand.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[He strokes her face, takes her by the hand, and +gives the letter.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Hold, hold, father, you go beyond your commission; +palming is always held foul play amongst +gamesters.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Thus good intentions are misconstrued by +wicked men; you will never be warned till you are +excommunicated.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Ah, devil on him; there's his hold! If +there were no more in excommunication than the +<span class="pgnm">419</span><a id="page_419" name="page_419"></a> +church's censure, a wise man would lick his conscience +whole with a wet finger; but, if I am excommunicated, +I am outlawed, and then there is +no calling in my money.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> [<span class="sdm">Rising.</span>] I have read the note, father, and +will send him an answer immediately; for I know +his lodgings by his letter.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> I understand it not, for my part; but I +wish your intentions be honest. Remember, that +adultery, though it be a silent sin, yet it is a crying +sin also. Nevertheless, if you believe absolutely he +will die, unless you pity him; to save a man's life +is a point of charity; and actions of charity do alleviate, +as I may say, and take off from the mortality +of the sin. Farewell, daughter.—Gomez, cherish +your virtuous wife; and thereupon I give you +my benediction.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Going.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Stay; I'll conduct you to the door,—that +I may be sure you steal nothing by the way. +Friars wear not their long sleeves for nothing.—Oh, +'tis a Judas Iscariot.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit after the Friar.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> This friar is a comfortable man! He will understand +nothing of the business, and yet does it +all.<br /> +<span class="i1">Pray, wives and virgins, at your time of need,</span><br /> +<span class="i1">For a true guide, of my good father's breed.</span><span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT III.<br /> +SCENE I.—<i>The Street.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Lorenzo</span> in a Friars Habit, meeting <span class="cnm">Dominick.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Father Dominick, father Dominick; why in +such haste, man?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">420</span><a id="page_420" name="page_420"></a> +<span class="cnm">Dom.</span> It should seem, a brother of our order.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> No, faith, I am only your brother in iniquity; +my holiness, like yours, is mere outside.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> What! my noble colonel in metamorphosis! +On what occasion are you transformed?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Love, almighty love; that, which turned Jupiter +into a town-bull, has transformed me into a +friar. I have had a letter from Elvira, in answer to +that I sent by you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> You see I have delivered my message faithfully; +I am a friar of honour, where I am engaged.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> O, I understand your hint; the other fifty +pieces are ready to be condemned to charity.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> But this habit, son! this habit!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> It is a habit, that, in all ages, has been +friendly to fornication: you have begun the design +in this clothing, and I'll try to accomplish it. +The husband is absent, that evil counsellor is removed +and the sovereign is graciously disposed to hear +my grievances.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Go to, go to; I find good counsel is but +thrown away upon you. Fare you well, fare you +well, son! Ah—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> How! will you turn recreant at the last +cast? You must along to countenance my undertaking: +we are at the door, man.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Well, I have thought on't, and I will not +go.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> You may stay, father, but no fifty pounds +without it; that was only promised in the bond: +"But the condition of this obligation is such, that +if the above-named father, father Dominick, do +not well and faithfully perform—"</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Now I better think on't, I will bear you +company; for the reverence of my presence may be +a curb to your exorbitancies.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Lead up your myrmidons, and enter.<span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span></p> + +<div><span class="pgnm">421</span><a id="page_421" name="page_421"></a></div> + +<h4 class="scn">SCENE II.—<span class="cnm">Elvira's</span> <i>Chamber.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Elvira.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> He'll come, that's certain; young appetites +are sharp, and seldom need twice bidding to such a +banquet. Well, if I prove frail,—as I hope I shall +not till I have compassed my design,—never woman +had such a husband to provoke her, such a lover to +allure her, or such a confessor to absolve her. Of +what am I afraid, then? not my conscience, that's +safe enough; my ghostly father has given it a dose +of church-opium, to lull it. Well, for soothing sin, +I'll say that for him, he's a chaplain for any court +in Christendom.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Lorenzo</span> and <span class="cnm">Dominick.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg">O, father Dominick, what news?—How, a companion +with you! What game have you in hand, that +you hunt in couples?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> [<span class="sdm">Lifting up his Hood.</span>] I'll shew you that +immediately.</p> +<p class="dlg"> +<span class="cnm">Elv.</span> O, my love!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> My life!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> My soul!<span class="sdr">[They embrace.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> I am taken on the sudden with a grievous +swimming in my head, and such a mist before my +eyes, that I can neither hear nor see.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Stay, and I'll fetch you some comfortable +water.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> No, no; nothing but the open air will do +me good. I'll take a turn in your garden; but remember +that I trust you both, and do not wrong +my good opinion of you.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Dominick.</span></span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> This is certainly the dust of gold which you +have thrown in the good man's eyes, that on the +<span class="pgnm">422</span><a id="page_422" name="page_422"></a> +sudden he cannot see; for my mind misgives me, +this sickness of his is but apocryphal.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> 'Tis no qualm of conscience, I'll be sworn. +You see, madam, it is interest governs all the +world. He preaches against sin; why? because he +gets by it: He holds his tongue; why? because so +much more is bidden for his silence.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> And so much for the friar.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Oh, those eyes of yours reproach me justly, +that I neglect the subject which brought me hither.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Do you consider the hazard I have run to +see you here? if you do, methinks it should inform +you, that I love not at a common rate.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Nay, if you talk of considering, let us consider +why we are alone. Do you think the friar +left us together to tell beads? Love is a kind of penurious +god, very niggardly of his opportunities: +he must be watched like a hard-hearted treasurer; +for he bolts out on the sudden, and, if you take him +not in the nick, he vanishes in a twinkling.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Why do you make such haste to have done +loving me? You men are all like watches, wound +up for striking twelve immediately; but after you +are satisfied, the very next that follows, is the solitary +sound of a single—one!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> How, madam! do you invite me to a feast, +and then preach abstinence?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> No, I invite you to a feast where the dishes +are served up in order: you are for making a hasty +meal, and for chopping up your entertainment, like +a hungry clown. Trust my management, good colonel, +and call not for your desert too soon: believe +me, that which comes last, as it is the sweetest, +so it cloys the soonest.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> I perceive, madam, by your holding me at +this distance, that there is somewhat you expect +<span class="pgnm">423</span><a id="page_423" name="page_423"></a> +from me: what am I to undertake, or suffer, ere I +can be happy?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> I must first be satisfied, that you love me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> By all that's holy! by these dear eyes!—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Spare your oaths and protestations; I know +you gallants of the time have a mint at your tongue's +end to coin them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> You know you cannot marry me; but, by +heavens, if you were in a condition—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Then you would not be so prodigal of your +promises, but have the fear of matrimony before +your eyes. In few words, if you love me, as you +profess, deliver me from this bondage, take me out +of Egypt, and I'll wander with you as far as earth, +and seas, and love, can carry us.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> I never was out at a mad frolic, though this +is the maddest I ever undertook. Have with you, +lady mine; I take you at your word; and if you +are for a merry jaunt, I'll try for once who can foot +it farthest. There are hedges in summer, and barns +in winter, to be found; I with my knapsack, and +you with your bottle at your back: we will leave +honour to madmen, and riches to knaves; and travel +till we come to' the ridge of the world, and then +drop together into the next.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Give me your hand, and strike a bargain. +<span class="sdr">[He takes her hand, and kisses it.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> In sign and token whereof, the parties interchangeably, +and so forth.—When should I be +weary of sealing upon this soft wax?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> O heavens! I hear my husband's voice.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Gomez.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Where are you, gentlewoman? there's something +in the wind, I'm sure, because your woman +would have run up stairs before me; but I have secured +her below, with a gag in her chaps.—Now, +<span class="pgnm">424</span><a id="page_424" name="page_424"></a> +in the devil's name, what makes this friar here +again? I do not like these frequent conjunctions of +the flesh and spirit; they are boding.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Go hence, good father; my husband, you +see, is in an ill humour, and I would not have you +witness of his folly.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Lorenzo</span> going.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> [<span class="sdm">Running to the door.</span>] By your reverence's +favour, hold a little; I must examine you something +better, before you go.—Heyday! who have +we here? Father Dominick is shrunk in the wetting +two yards and a half about the belly. What +are become of those two timber logs, that he used +to wear for legs, that stood strutting like the two +black posts before a door? I am afraid some bad +body has been setting him over a fire in a great +cauldron, and boiled him down half the quantity, +for a recipe. This is no father Dominick, no huge +overgrown abbey-lubber; this is but a diminutive +sucking friar. As sure as a gun, now, father Dominick +has been spawning this young slender anti-christ.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> He will be found, there's no prevention.<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Why does he not speak? What! is the +friar possessed with a dumb devil? if he be, I shall +make bold to conjure him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> He is but a novice in his order, and is enjoined +silence for a penance.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> A novice, quotha! you would make a novice +of me, too, if you could. But what was his business +here? answer me that, gentlewoman, answer +me that.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> What should it be, but to give me some spiritual +instructions.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Very good; and you are like to edify much +from a dumb preacher. This will not pass, I must +examine the contents of him a little closer.—O thou +<span class="pgnm">425</span><a id="page_425" name="page_425"></a> +confessor, confess who thou art, or thou art no friar +of this world!—[<span class="sdm">He comes to <span class="cnm">Lorenzo,</span> who struggles +with him; his Habit flies open, and discovers a +Sword; <span class="cnm">Gomez</span> starts back.</span>]—As I live, this is a +manifest member of the church militant.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] I am discovered; now, impudence +be my refuge.—Yes, faith, 'tis I, honest Gomez; +thou seest I use thee like a friend; this is a familiar +visit.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> What! colonel Hernando turned a friar! +who could have suspected you of so much godliness?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Even as thou seest, I make bold here.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> A very frank manner of proceeding; but I +do not wonder at your visit, after so friendly an invitation +as I made you. Marry, I hope you will +excuse the blunderbusses for not being in readiness +to salute you; but let me know your hour, and all +shall be mended another time.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Hang it, I hate such ripping up of old unkindness: +I was upon the frolic this evening, and +came to visit thee in masquerade.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Very likely; and not finding me at home, +you were forced to toy away an hour with my wife, +or so.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Right; thou speak'st my very soul.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Why, am not I a friend, then, to help thee +out? you would have been fumbling half an hour +for this excuse. But, as I remember, you promised +to storm my citadel, and bring your regiment of red +locusts upon me for free quarters: I find, colonel, by +your habit, there are black locusts in the world, as +well as red.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> When comes my share of the reckoning to +be called for?<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Give me thy hand; thou art the honestest, +<span class="pgnm">426</span><a id="page_426" name="page_426"></a> +kind man!—I was resolved I would not out of thy +house till I had seen thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> No, in my conscience, if I had staid abroad +till midnight. But, colonel, you and I shall talk in +another tone hereafter; I mean, in cold friendship, +at a bar before a judge, by the way of plaintiff and +defendant. Your excuses want some grains to make +them current: Hum, and ha, will not do the business.—There's +a modest lady of your acquaintance, +she has so much grace to make none at all, but silently +to confess the power of dame Nature working +in her body to youthful appetite.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> How he got in I know not, unless it were +by virtue of his habit.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Ay, ay, the virtues of that habit are known +abundantly.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> I could not hinder his entrance, for he took +me unprovided.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> To resist him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> I'm sure he has not been here above a quarter +of an hour.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> And a quarter of that time would have +served the turn. O thou epitome of thy virtuous +sex! Madam Messalina the second, retire to thy +apartment: I have an assignation there to make +with thee.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> I am all obedience.<span class="sdr">[Exit <span class="cnm">Elvira.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> I find, Gomez, you are not the man I thought +you. We may meet before we come to the bar, we +may; and our differences may be decided by other +weapons than by lawyers' tongues. In the mean +time, no ill treatment of your wife, as you hope to +die a natural death, and go to hell in your bed. +Bilbo is the word, remember that and tremble.—<br /> +<span class="sdr">[He's going out.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="pgnm">427</span><a id="page_427" name="page_427"></a> +Enter <span class="cnm">Dominick.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Where is this naughty couple? where are +you, in the name of goodness? My mind misgave +me, and I durst trust you no longer with yourselves: +Here will be fine work, I'm afraid, at your +next confession.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] The devil is punctual, I see; he +has paid me the shame he owed me; and now the +friar is coming in for his part too.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> [<span class="sdm">Seeing <span class="cnm">Gom.</span></span>] Bless my eyes! what do I +see?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Why, you see a cuckold of this honest +gentleman's making; I thank him for his pains.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> I confess, I am astonished!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> What, at a cuckoldom of your own contrivance! +your head-piece, and his limbs, have done my +business. Nay, do not look so strangely; remember +your own words,—Here will be fine work at your +next confession. What naughty couple were they +whom you durst not trust together any longer?—when +the hypocritical rogue had trusted them a +full quarter of an hour;—and, by the way, horns +will sprout in less time than mushrooms.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Beware how you accuse one of my order +upon light suspicions. The naughty couple, that +I meant, were your wife and you, whom I left together +with great animosities on both sides. Now, +that was the occasion,—mark me, Gomez,—that I +thought it convenient to return again, and not to +trust your enraged spirits too long together. You +might have broken out into revilings and matrimonial +warfare, which are sins; and new sins make +work for new confessions.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Well said, i'faith, friar; thou art come off +thyself, but poor I am left in limbo.<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">428</span><a id="page_428" name="page_428"></a> +<span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Angle in some other ford, good father, you +shall catch no gudgeons here. Look upon the prisoner +at the bar, friar, and inform the court what +you know concerning him; he is arraigned here by +the name of colonel Hernando.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> What colonel do you mean, Gomez? I see +no man but a reverend brother of our order, whose +profession I honour, but whose person I know not, +as I hope for paradise.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> No, you are not acquainted with him, the +more's the pity; you do not know him, under this +disguise, for the greatest cuckold-maker in all Spain.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> O impudence! O rogue! O villain! Nay, +if he be such a man, my righteous spirit rises at +him! Does he put on holy garments, for a cover-shame +of lewdness?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Yes, and he's in the right on't, father: +when a swinging sin is to be committed, nothing +will cover it so close as a friar's hood; for there the +devil plays at bo-peep,—puts out his horns to do a +mischief, and then shrinks them back for safety, +like a snail into her shell.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> It's best marching off, while I can retreat +with honour. There's no trusting this friar's conscience; +he has renounced me already more heartily +than e'er he did the devil, and is in a fair way +to prosecute me for putting on these holy robes. +This is the old church-trick; the clergy is ever at +the bottom of the plot, but they are wise enough +to slip their own necks out of the collar, and leave +the laity to be fairly hanged for it.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Aside and exit.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Follow your leader, friar; your colonel is +trooped off, but he had not gone so easily, if I durst +have trusted you in the house behind me. Gather +up your gouty legs, I say, and rid my house of that +huge body of divinity.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">429</span><a id="page_429" name="page_429"></a> +<span class="cnm">Dom.</span> I expect some judgment should fall upon +you, for your want of reverence to your spiritual director: +Slander, covetousness, and jealousy, will +weigh thee down.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Put pride, hypocrisy, and gluttony into your +scale, father, and you shall weigh against me: Nay, +an sins come to be divided once, the clergy puts in +for nine parts, and scarce leaves the laity a tithe.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> How dar'st thou reproach the tribe of Levi?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Marry, because you make us laymen of the +tribe of Issachar. You make asses of us, to bear +your burthens. When we are young, you put panniers +upon us with your church-discipline; and when +we are grown up, you load us with a wife: after +that, you procure for other men, and then you load +our wives too. A fine phrase you have amongst +you to draw us into marriage, you call it—<i>settling of +a man;</i> just as when a fellow has got a sound knock +upon the head, they say—<i>he's settled:</i> Marriage is a +settling-blow indeed. They say every thing in the +world is good for something; as a toad, to suck up +the venom of the earth; but I never knew what a +friar was good for, till your pimping shewed me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Thou shalt answer for this, thou slanderer; +thy offences be upon thy head.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> I believe there are some offences there of +your planting. [<span class="sdm">Exit <span class="cnm">Dom.</span></span>] Lord, Lord, that men +should have sense enough to set snares in their +warrens to catch polecats and foxes, and yet—<br /> +<span class="i1">Want wit a priest-trap at their door to lay,</span><br /> +<span class="i1">For holy vermin that in houses prey.</span><span class="sdr">[<i>Exit</i> <span class="cnm">Gom.</span></span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">SCENE III.—<i>A Bed Chamber.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="cnm">Leonora,</span> and <span class="cnm">Teresa.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ter.</span> You are not what you were, since yesterday;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">430</span><a id="page_430" name="page_430"></a> +Your food forsakes you, and your needful rest;<br /> +You pine, you languish, love to be alone;<br /> +Think much, speak little, and, in speaking, sigh:<br /> +When you see Torrismond, you are unquiet;<br /> +But, when you see him not, you are in pain.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> O let them never love, who never tried!<br /> +They brought a paper to me to be signed;<br /> +Thinking on him, I quite forgot my name,<br /> +And writ, for Leonora, Torrismond.<br /> +I went to bed, and to myself I thought<br /> +That I would think on Torrismond no more;<br /> +Then shut my eyes, but could not shut out him.<br /> +I turned, and tried each corner of my bed,<br /> +To find if sleep were there, but sleep was lost.<br /> +Fev'rish, for want of rest, I rose, and walked,<br /> +And, by the moon-shine, to the windows went;<br /> +There, thinking to exclude him from my thoughts,<br /> +I cast my eyes upon the neighbouring fields,<br /> +And, ere I was aware, sighed to myself,—<br /> +There fought my Torrismond.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ter.</span> What hinders you to take the man you love?<br /> +The people will be glad, the soldiers shout,<br /> +And Bertran, though repining, will be awed.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> I fear to try new love,<br /> +As boys to venture on the unknown ice,<br /> +That crackles underneath them while they slide.<br /> +Oh, how shall I describe this growing ill!<br /> +Betwixt my doubt and love, methinks I stand<br /> +Altering, like one that waits an ague fit;<br /> +And yet, would this were all!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ter.</span> What fear you more?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> I am ashamed to say, 'tis but a fancy.<br /> +At break of day, when dreams, they say, are true,<br /> +A drowzy slumber, rather than a sleep,<br /> +Seized on my senses, with long watching worn:<br /> +Methought I stood on a wide river's bank,<br /> +Which I must needs o'erpass, but knew not how;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">431</span><a id="page_431" name="page_431"></a> +When, on a sudden, Torrismond appeared,<br /> +Gave me his hand, and led me lightly o'er,<br /> +Leaping and bounding on the billows' heads,<br /> +'Till safely we had reached the farther shore.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ter.</span> This dream portends some ill which you shall 'scape.<br /> +Would you see fairer visions, take this night<br /> +Your Torrismond within your arms to sleep;<br /> +And, to that end, invent some apt pretence<br /> +To break with Bertran: 'twould be better yet,<br /> +Could you provoke him to give you the occasion,<br /> +And then, to throw him off.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Bertran</span> at a distance.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> My stars have sent him;<br /> +For, see, he comes. How gloomily he looks!<br /> +If he, as I suspect, have found my love,<br /> +His jealousy will furnish him with fury,<br /> +And me with means, to part.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] +Shall I upbraid her? Shall I call her false?<br /> +If she be false, 'tis what she most desires.<br /> +My genius whispers me,—Be cautious, Bertran!<br /> +Thou walkest as on a narrow mountain's neck,<br /> +A dreadful height, with scanty room to tread.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> What business have you at the court, my lord?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> What business, madam?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Yes, my lord, what business?<br /> +'Tis somewhat, sure, of weighty consequence,<br /> +That brings you here so often, and unsent for.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> 'Tis what I feared; her words are cold enough,<br /> +To freeze a man to death. [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>]—May I presume<br /> +To speak, and to complain?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> They, who complain to princes, think them tame:<br /> +<span class="pgnm">432</span><a id="page_432" name="page_432"></a> +What bull dares bellow, or what sheep dares bleat,<br /> +Within the lion's den?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Yet men are suffered to put heaven in mind<br /> +Of promised blessings; for they then are debts.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> My lord, heaven knows its own time when to give;<br /> +But you, it seems, charge me with breach of faith!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> I hope I need not, madam;<br /> +But as, when men in sickness lingering lie,<br /> +They count the tedious hours by months and years,—<br /> +So, every day deferred, to dying lovers,<br /> +Is a whole age of pain!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> What if I ne'er consent to make you mine?<br /> +My father's promise ties me not to time;<br /> +And bonds, without a date, they say, are void.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Far be it from me to believe you bound;<br /> +Love is the freest motion of our minds:<br /> +O could you see into my secret soul,<br /> +There might you read your own dominion doubled,<br /> +Both as a queen and mistress. If you leave me,<br /> +Know I can die, but dare not be displeased.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Sure you affect stupidity, my lord;<br /> +Or give me cause to think, that, when you lost<br /> +Three battles to the Moors, you coldly stood<br /> +As unconcerned as now.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> I did my best;<br /> +Fate was not in my power.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> And, with the like tame gravity, you saw<br /> +A raw young warrior take your baffled work,<br /> +And end it at a blow.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> I humbly take my leave; but they, who blast<br /> +Your good opinion of me, may have cause<br /> +To know, I am no coward.<span class="sdr">[He is going.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Bertran, stay.<br /> +[<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] This may produce some dismal consequence<br /> +To him, whom dearer than my life I love.<br /> +<span class="pgnm">433</span><a id="page_433" name="page_433"></a> +[<span class="sdm">To him.</span>] Have I not managed my contrivance well,<br /> +To try your love, and make you doubt of mine?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Then, was it but a trial?<br /> +Methinks I start as from some dreadful dream,<br /> +And often ask myself if yet I wake.—<br /> +This turn's too quick to be without design;<br /> +I'll sound the bottom of't, ere I believe.<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> I find your love, and would reward it too,<br /> +But anxious fears solicit my weak breast.<br /> +I fear my people's faith;<br /> +That hot-mouthed beast, that bears against the curb,<br /> +Hard to be broken even by lawful kings,<br /> +But harder by usurpers.<br /> +Judge then, my lord, with all these cares opprest,<br /> +If I can think of love.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Believe me, madam,<br /> +These jealousies, however large they spread,<br /> +Have but one root, the old imprisoned king;<br /> +Whose lenity first pleased the gaping crowd;<br /> +But when long tried, and found supinely good,<br /> +Like Æsop's Log, they leapt upon his back.<br /> +Your father knew them well; and, when he mounted,<br /> +He reined them strongly, and he spurred them hard:<br /> +And, but he durst not do it all at once,<br /> +He had not left alive this patient saint,<br /> +This anvil of affronts, but sent him hence<br /> +To hold a peaceful branch of palm above,<br /> +And hymn it in the quire.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> You've hit upon the very string, which, touched.<br /> +Echoes the sound, and jars within my soul;—<br /> +There lies my grief.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> So long as there's a head,<br /> +Thither will all the mounting spirits fly;<br /> +Lop that but off, and then—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> My virtue shrinks from such an horrid act.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> This 'tis to have a virtue out of season.<br /> +<span class="pgnm">434</span><a id="page_434" name="page_434"></a> +Mercy is good, a very good dull virtue;<br /> +But kings mistake its timing, and are mild,<br /> +When manly courage bids them be severe:<br /> +Better be cruel once, than anxious ever.<br /> +Remove this threatening danger from your crown,<br /> +And then securely take the man you love.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> [<span class="sdm">Walking aside.</span>]<br /> +Ha! let me think of that:—The man I love?<br /> +'Tis true, this murder is the only means,<br /> +That can secure my throne to Torrismond:<br /> +Nay, more, this execution, done by Bertran,<br /> +Makes him the object of the people's hate.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> The more she thinks, 'twill work the stronger in her. +<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> How eloquent is mischief to persuade!<br /> +Few are so wicked, as to take delight<br /> +In crimes unprofitable, nor do I:<br /> +If then I break divine and human laws,<br /> +No bribe but love could gain so bad a cause.<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> You answer nothing.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> 'Tis of deep concernment,<br /> +And I a woman, ignorant and weak:<br /> +I leave it all to you; think, what you do,<br /> +You do for him I love.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> For him she loves?<br /> +She named not me; that may be Torrismond,<br /> +Whom she has thrice in private seen this day;<br /> +Then I am fairly caught in my own snare.<br /> +I'll think again. [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>]—Madam, it shall be done;<br /> +And mine be all the blame.<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> O, that it were! I would not do this crime,<br /> +And yet, like heaven, permit it to be done.<br /> +The priesthood grossly cheat us with free-will:<br /> +Will to do what—but what heaven first decreed?<br /> +Our actions then are neither good nor ill,<br /> +Since from eternal causes they proceed;<br /> +Our passions,—fear and anger, love and hate,—<br /> +<span class="pgnm">435</span><a id="page_435" name="page_435"></a> +Mere senseless engines that are moved by fate;<br /> +Like ships on stormy seas, without a guide,<br /> +Tost by the winds, and driven by the tide.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Torrismond.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Am I not rudely bold, and press too often<br /> +Into your presence, madam? If I am—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> No more, lest I should chide you for your stay:<br /> +Where have you been? and how could you suppose,<br /> +That I could live these two long hours without you?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> O words, to charm an angel from his orb!<br /> +Welcome, as kindly showers to long-parched earth!<br /> +But I have been in such a dismal place,<br /> +Where joy ne'er enters, which the sun ne'er cheers,<br /> +Bound in with darkness, overspread with damps;<br /> +Where I have seen (if I could say I saw)<br /> +The good old king, majestic in his bonds,<br /> +And, 'midst his griefs, most venerably great:<br /> +By a dim winking lamp, which feebly broke<br /> +The gloomy vapours, he lay stretched along<br /> +Upon the unwholesome earth, his eyes fixed upward;<br /> +And ever and anon a silent tear<br /> +Stole down, and trickled from his hoary beard.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> O heaven, what have I done!—my gentle love,<br /> +Here end thy sad discourse, and, for my sake,<br /> +Cast off these fearful melancholy thoughts.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> My heart is withered at that piteous sight,<br /> +As early blossoms are with eastern blasts:<br /> +He sent for me, and, while I raised his head,<br /> +He threw his aged arms about my neck;<br /> +And, seeing that I wept, he pressed me close:<br /> +So, leaning cheek to cheek, and eyes to eyes,<br /> +We mingled tears in a dumb scene of sorrow.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Forbear; you know not how you wound my soul.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Can you have grief, and not have pity too?<br /> +<span class="pgnm">436</span><a id="page_436" name="page_436"></a> +He told me,—when my father did return,<br /> +He had a wond'rous secret to disclose:<br /> +He kissed me, blessed me, nay—he called me son;<br /> +He praised my courage; prayed for my success:<br /> +He was so true a father of his country,<br /> +To thank me, for defending even his foes,<br /> +Because they were his subjects.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> If they be,—then what am I?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> The sovereign of my soul, my earthly heaven.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> And not your queen?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> You are so beautiful,<br /> +So wond'rous fair, you justify rebellion;<br /> +As if that faultless face could make no sin,<br /> +But heaven, with looking on it, must forgive.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> The king must die,—he must, my Torrismond,<br /> +Though pity softly plead within my soul;<br /> +Yet he must die, that I may make you great,<br /> +And give a crown in dowry with my love.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Perish that crown—on any head but yours!<br /> +O, recollect your thoughts!<br /> +Shake not his hour-glass, when his hasty sand<br /> +Is ebbing to the last:<br /> +A little longer, yet a little longer,<br /> +And nature drops him down, without your sin;<br /> +Like mellow fruit, without a winter storm.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Let me but do this one injustice more.<br /> +His doom is past, and, for your sake, he dies.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Would you, for me, have done so ill an act,<br /> +And will not do a good one!<br /> +Now, by your joys on earth, your hopes in heaven,<br /> +O spare this great, this good, this aged king;<br /> +And spare your soul the crime!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> The crime's not mine;<br /> +'Twas first proposed, and must be done, by Bertran,<br /> +Fed with false hopes to gain my crown and me;<br /> +I, to enhance his ruin, gave no leave,<br /> +But barely bade him think, and then resolve.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">437</span><a id="page_437" name="page_437"></a> +<span class="cnm">Tor.</span> In not forbidding, you command the crime:<br /> +Think, timely think, on the last dreadful day;<br /> +How will you tremble, there to stand exposed,<br /> +And foremost, in the rank of guilty ghosts,<br /> +That must be doomed for murder! think on murder:<br /> +That troop is placed apart from common crimes;<br /> +The damned themselves start wide, and shun that band,<br /> +As far more black, and more forlorn than they.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> 'Tis terrible! it shakes, it staggers me;<br /> +I knew this truth, but I repelled that thought.<br /> +Sure there is none, but fears a future state;<br /> +And, when the most obdurate swear they do not,<br /> +Their trembling hearts belie their boasting tongues.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Teresa.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg">Send speedily to Bertran; charge him strictly<br /> +Not to proceed, but wait my farther pleasure.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ter.</span> Madam, he sends to tell you, 'tis performed.<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Ten thousand plagues consume him! furies drag him,<br /> +Fiends tear him! blasted be the arm that struck,<br /> +The tongue that ordered!—only she be spared,<br /> +That hindered not the deed! O, where was then<br /> +The power, that guards the sacred lives of kings?<br /> +Why slept the lightning and the thunder-bolts,<br /> +Or bent their idle rage on fields and trees,<br /> +When vengeance called them here?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Sleep that thought too;<br /> +'Tis done, and, since 'tis done, 'tis past recal;<br /> +And, since 'tis past recal, must be forgotten.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> O, never, never, shall it be forgotten!<br /> +High heaven will not forget it; after-ages<br /> +Shall with a fearful curse remember ours;<br /> +And blood shall never leave the nation more!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> His body shall be royally interred,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">438</span><a id="page_438" name="page_438"></a> +And the last funeral-pomps adorn his hearse;<br /> +I will myself (as I have cause too just,)<br /> +Be the chief mourner at his obsequies;<br /> +And yearly fix on the revolving day<br /> +The solemn marks of mourning, to atone,<br /> +And expiate my offence.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Nothing can,<br /> +But bloody vengeance on that traitor's head,—<br /> +Which, dear departed spirit, here I vow.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Here end our sorrows, and begin our joys:<br /> +Love calls, my Torrismond; though hate has raged,<br /> +And ruled the day, yet love will rule the night.<br /> +The spiteful stars have shed their venom down,<br /> +And now the peaceful planets take their turn.<br /> +This deed of Bertran's has removed all fears,<br /> +And given me just occasion to refuse him.<br /> +What hinders now, but that the holy priest<br /> +In secret join our mutual vows? and then<br /> +This night, this happy night, is yours and mine.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Be still my sorrows, and be loud my joys.<br /> +Fly to the utmost circles of the sea,<br /> +Thou furious tempest, that hast tossed my mind,<br /> +And leave no thought, but Leonora there.—<br /> +What's this I feel, a boding in my soul,<br /> +As if this day were fatal? be it so;<br /> +Fate shall but have the leavings of my love:<br /> +My joys are gloomy, but withal are great.<br /> +The lion, though he sees the toils are set,<br /> +Yet, pinched with raging hunger, scowers away,<br /> +Hunts in the face of danger all the day;<br /> +At night, with sullen pleasure, grumbles o'er his prey. +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span></p> + +<div><span class="pgnm">439</span><a id="page_439" name="page_439"></a></div> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT IV.<br /> +SCENE I.—<i>Before Gomez's Door.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Lorenzo, Dominick,</span> and two Soldiers at a +distance.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> I'll not wag an ace farther: the whole +world shall not bribe me to it; for my conscience +will digest these gross enormities no longer.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> How, thy conscience not digest them! There +is ne'er a friar in Spain can shew a conscience, that +comes near it for digestion. It digested pimping, +when I sent thee with my letter; and it digested +perjury, when thou swor'st thou didst not know me: +I am sure it has digested me fifty pounds, of as hard +gold as is in all Barbary. Pr'ythee, why shouldest +thou discourage fornication, when thou knowest +thou lovest a sweet young girl?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Away, away; I do not love them;—pah; +no,—[<span class="sdm">spits.</span>] I do not love a pretty girl—you are +so waggish!—<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Spits again.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Why thy mouth waters at the very mention +of them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> You take a mighty pleasure in defamation, +colonel; but I wonder what you find in running +restless up and down, breaking your brains, emptying +your purse, and wearing out your body, with +hunting after unlawful game.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Why there's the satisfaction on't.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> This incontinency may proceed to adultery, +and adultery to murder, and murder to hanging; +and there's the satisfaction on't.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">440</span><a id="page_440" name="page_440"></a> +<span class="cnm">Lor.</span> I'll not hang alone, friar; I'm resolved to +peach thee before thy superiors, for what thou hast +done already.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> I'm resolved to forswear it, if you do. Let +me advise you better, colonel, than to accuse a +church-man to a church-man; in the common cause +we are all of a piece; we hang together.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> If you don't, it were no matter if you did.<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Nay, if you talk of peaching, I'll peach +first, and see whose oath will be believed; I'll trounce +you for offering to corrupt my honesty, and bribe +my conscience: you shall be summoned by an host +of parators; you shall be sentenced in the spiritual +court; you shall be excommunicated; you shall be +outlawed;—and—<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Here <span class="cnm">Lorenzo</span> takes a purse, and plays with it, +and at last lets the purse fall chinking on the +ground, which the Friar eyes.</span><br /><br /><br /> +[<span class="sdm">In another tone.</span>] I say, a man might do this now, +if he were maliciously disposed, and had a mind to +bring matters to extremity: but, considering that +you are my friend, a person of honour, and a worthy +good charitable man, I would rather die a thousand +deaths than disoblige you.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Lorenzo</span> takes up the purse, and pours it into +the Friar's sleeve.</span><br /><br /> +Nay, good sir;—nay, dear colonel;—O lord, sir, what +are you doing now! I profess this must not be: +without this I would have served you to the utter-most; +pray command me.—A jealous, foul-mouthed +rogue this Gomez is; I saw how he used you, and +you marked how he used me too. O he's a bitter +man; but we'll join our forces; ah, shall we, colonel? +we'll be revenged on him with a witness.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> But how shall I send her word to be ready +at the door? for I must reveal it in confession to +<span class="pgnm">441</span><a id="page_441" name="page_441"></a> +you, that I mean to carry her away this evening, +by the help of these two soldiers. I know Gomez +suspects you, and you will hardly gain admittance.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Let me alone; I fear him not. I am armed +with the authority of my clothing: yonder I see +him keeping sentry at his door:—have you never +seen a citizen, in a cold morning, clapping his sides, +and walking forward and backward, a mighty pace +before his shop? but I'll gain the pass, in spite of +his suspicion; stand you aside, and do but mark +how I accost him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> If he meet with a repulse, we must throw +off the fox's skin, and put on the lion's.—Come, +gentlemen, you'll stand by me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Sol.</span> Do not doubt us, colonel. +<span class="sdr">[They retire all three to a corner of the stage; +<span class="cnm">Dominick</span> goes to the door where <span class="cnm">Gomez</span> +stands.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Good even, Gomez; how does your wife?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Just as you'd have her; thinking on nothing +but her dear colonel, and conspiring cuckoldom +against me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> I dare say, you wrong her; she is employing +her thoughts how to cure you of your jealousy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Yes, by certainty.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> By your leave, Gomez; I have some spiritual +advice to impart to her on that subject.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> You may spare your instructions, if you +please, father; she has no farther need of them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> How, no need of them! do you speak in +riddles?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Since you will have me speak plainer,—she +has profited so well already by your counsel, that +she can say her lesson without your teaching: Do +you understand me now?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> I must not neglect my duty, for all that; +once again, Gomez, by your leave.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">442</span><a id="page_442" name="page_442"></a> +<span class="cnm">Gom.</span> She's a little indisposed at present, and it +will not be convenient to disturb her.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Dominick</span> offers to go by him, but t'other stands +before him.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Indisposed, say you? O, it is upon those +occasions that a confessor is most necessary; I +think, it was my good angel that sent me hither so +opportunely.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Ay, whose good angels sent you hither, that +you best know, father.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> A word or two of devotion will do her no +harm, I'm sure.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> A little sleep will do her more good, I'm +sure: You know, she disburthened her conscience +but this morning to you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> But, if she be ill this afternoon, she may +have new occasion to confess.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Indeed, as you order matters with the colonel, +she may have occasion of confessing herself +every hour.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Pray, how long has she been sick?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Lord, you will force a man to speak;—why, +ever since your last defeat.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> This can be but some slight indisposition; +it will not last, and I may see her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> How, not last! I say, it will last, and it +shall last; she shall be sick these seven or eight +days, and perhaps longer, as I see occasion. What? +I know the mind of her sickness a little better than +you do.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> I find, then, I must bring a doctor.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> And he'll bring an apothecary, with a chargeable +long bill of <i>ana's</i>: those of my family have the +grace to die cheaper. In a word, Sir Dominick, we +understand one another's business here: I am resolved +to stand like the Swiss of my own family, to +defend the entrance; you may mumble over your +<span class="pgnm">443</span><a id="page_443" name="page_443"></a> +<i>pater nosters</i>, if you please, and try if you can make +my doors fly open, and batter down my walls with +bell, book, and candle; but I am not of opinion, +that you are holy enough to commit miracles.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Men of my order are not to be treated after +this manner.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> I would treat the pope and all his cardinals +in the same manner, if they offered to see my wife, +without my leave.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> I excommunicate thee from the church, if +thou dost not open; there's promulgation coming +out.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> And I excommunicate you from my wife, +if you go to that: there's promulgation for promulgation, +and bull for bull; and so I leave you to recreate +yourself with the end of an old song—<br /> +<i>And sorrow came to the old friar.</i><span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="cnm">Lorenzo</span> comes to him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> I will not ask you your success; for I overheard +part of it, and saw the conclusion. I find we +are now put upon our last trump; the fox is earthed, +but I shall send my two terriers in after him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Sold.</span> I warrant you, colonel, we'll unkennel him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> And make what haste you can, to bring out +the lady.—What say you, father? Burglary is but a +venial sin among soldiers.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> I shall absolve them, because he is an enemy +of the church.—There is a proverb, I confess, +which says, that dead men tell no tales; but let +your soldiers apply it at their own perils.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> What, take away a man's wife, and kill him +too! The wickedness of this old villain startles me, +and gives me a twinge for my own sin, though it +comes far short of his.—Hark you, soldiers, be sure +you use as little violence to him as is possible.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">444</span><a id="page_444" name="page_444"></a> +<span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Hold a little; I have thought better how +to secure him, with less danger to us.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> O miracle, the friar is grown conscientious!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> The old king, you know, is just murdered, +and the persons that did it are unknown; let the +soldiers seize him for one of the assassinates, and let +me alone to accuse him afterwards.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> I cry thee mercy with all my heart, for +suspecting a friar of the least good nature; what, +would you accuse him wrongfully?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> I must confess, 'tis wrongful, <i>quoad hoc</i>, as +to the fact itself; but 'tis rightful, <i>quoad hunc</i>, as to +this heretical rogue, whom we must dispatch. He +has railed against the church, which is a fouler crime +than the murder of a thousand kings. <i>Omne majus +continet in se minus:</i> He, that is an enemy to the +church, is an enemy unto heaven; and he, that is an +enemy to heaven, would have killed the king if he +had been in the circumstances of doing it; so it is +not wrongful to accuse him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> I never knew a churchman, if he were personally +offended, but he would bring in heaven by +hook or crook into his quarrel.—Soldiers, do as you +were first ordered.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt Soldiers.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> What was't you ordered them? Are you +sure it's safe, and not scandalous?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Somewhat near your own design, but not +altogether so mischievous. The people are infinitely +discontented, as they have reason; and mutinies +there are, or will be, against the queen: now I am +content to put him thus far into the plot, that he +should be secured as a traitor; but he shall only be +prisoner at the soldiers' quarters; and when I am out +of reach, he shall be released.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> And what will become of me then? for +when he is free, he will infallibly accuse me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">445</span><a id="page_445" name="page_445"></a> +<span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Why then, father, you must have recourse +to your infallible church-remedies; lie impudently, +and swear devoutly, and, as you told me but now, +let him try whose oath will be first believed. Retire, +I hear them coming.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[They withdraw.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter the Soldiers with <span class="cnm">Gomez</span> struggling on their +backs.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Help, good Christians! help, neighbours! +my house is broken open by force, and I am ravished, +and like to be assassinated!—What do you mean, +villains? will you carry me away, like a pedlar's +pack, upon your backs? will you murder a man in +plain day-light?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">1 Soldier.</span> No; but we'll secure you for a traitor, +and for being in a plot against the state.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom,</span> Who, I in a plot! O Lord! O Lord! I +never durst be in a plot: Why, how can you in +conscience suspect a rich citizen of so much wit as +to make a plotter? There are none but poor rogues, +and those that can't live without it, that are in +plots.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">2 Soldier.</span> Away with him, away with him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> O my gold! my wife! my wife! my gold! +As I hope to be saved now, I know no more of the +plot than they that made it.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[They carry him off, and exeunt.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Thus far we have sailed with a merry gale, +and now we have the Cape of Good Hope in sight; +the trade-wind is our own, if we can but double it.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[He looks out.</span><br /> +[<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Ah, my father and Pedro stand at the corner +of the street with company; there's no stirring +till they are past.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Elvira</span> with a casket.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Am I come at last into your arms?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">446</span><a id="page_446" name="page_446"></a> +<span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Fear nothing; the adventure's ended, and the +knight may carry off the lady safely.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> I'm so overjoyed, I can scarce believe I am +at liberty; but stand panting, like a bird that has +often beaten her wings in vain against her cage, and +at last dares hardly venture out, though she sees it +open.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Lose no time, but make haste while the +way is free for you; and thereupon I give you my +benediction.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> 'Tis not so free as you suppose; for there's +an old gentleman of my acquaintance, that blocks +up the passage at the corner of the street.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> What have you gotten there under your +arm, daughter? somewhat, I hope, that will bear +your charges in your pilgrimage.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> The friar has an hawk's eye to gold and +jewels.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Here's that will make you dance without a +fiddle, and provide better entertainment for us, than +hedges in summer, and barns in winter. Here's +the very heart, and soul, and life-blood of Gomez; +pawns in abundance, old gold of widows, and new +gold of prodigals, and pearls and diamonds of court +ladies, till the next bribe helps their husbands to +redeem them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> They are the spoils of the wicked, and the +church endows you with them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> And, faith, we'll drink the church's health +out of them. But all this while I stand on thorns. +Pr'ythee, dear, look out, and see if the coast be free +for our escape; for I dare not peep, for fear of being +known.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Elvira</span> goes to look, and <span class="cnm">Gomez</span> comes +running in upon her: She shrieks out.</span><br /><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Thanks to my stars, I have recovered my +own territories.—What do I see? I'm ruined! I'm +undone! I'm betrayed!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">447</span><a id="page_447" name="page_447"></a> +<span class="cnm">Dom.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] What a hopeful enterprise is here +spoiled!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> O, colonel are you there?—and you, friar? +nay, then I find how the world goes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Cheer up, man, thou art out of jeopardy; I +heard thee crying out just now, and came running +in full speed, with the wings of an eagle, and the +feet of a tiger, to thy rescue.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Ay, you are always at hand to do me a +courtesy, with your eagle's feet, and your tiger's +wings.—And what were you here for, friar?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> To interpose my spiritual authority in your +behalf.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> And why did you shriek out, gentlewoman?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> 'Twas for joy at your return.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> And that casket under your arm, for what +end and purpose?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Only to preserve it from the thieves.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> And you came running out of doors—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Only to meet you, sweet husband.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> A fine evidence summed up among you; +thank you heartily, you are all my friends. The +colonel was walking by accidentally, and hearing +my voice, came in to save me; the friar, who was +hobbling the same way too, accidentally again, and +not knowing of the colonel, I warrant you, he comes +in to pray for me; and my faithful wife runs out of +doors to meet me, with all my jewels under her arm, +and shrieks out for joy at my return. But if my +father-in-law had not met your soldiers, colonel, and +delivered me in the nick, I should neither have +found a friend nor a friar here, and might have +shrieked out for joy myself, for the loss of my jewels +and my wife.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Art thou an infidel? Wilt thou not believe +us?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Such churchmen as you would make any +<span class="pgnm">448</span><a id="page_448" name="page_448"></a> +man an infidel.—Get you into your kennel, gentlewoman; +I shall thank you within doors for your +safe custody of my jewels and your own.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[He thrusts his wife off the stage.</span><br /> +As for you, colonel Huffcap, we shall try before a +civil magistrate, who's the greater plotter of us two, +I against the state, or you against the petticoat.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Nay, if you will complain, you shall for +something.<span class="sdr">[Beats him.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Murder, murder! I give up the ghost! +I am destroyed! help, murder, murder!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Away, colonel; let us fly for our lives: the +neighbours are coming out with forks, and fire-shovels, +and spits, and other domestic weapons; the +militia of a whole alley is raised against us.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> This is but the interest of my debt, master +usurer; the principal shall be paid you at our next +meeting.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Ah, if your soldiers had but dispatched +him, his tongue had been laid asleep, colonel; but +this comes of not following good counsel; ah—<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Lor.</span> and Friar severally.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> I'll be revenged of him, if I dare; but he's +such a terrible fellow, that my mind misgives me; +I shall tremble when I have him before the judge. +All my misfortunes come together. I have been +robbed, and cuckolded, and ravished, and beaten, in +one quarter of an hour; my poor limbs smart, and +my poor head aches: ay, do, do, smart limb, ache +head, and sprout horns; but I'll be hanged before +I'll pity you:—you must needs be married, must ye? +there's for that; [<i>Beats his own head.</i>] and to a fine, +young, modish lady, must ye? there's for that too; +and, at threescore, you old, doting cuckold! take +that remembrance;—a fine time of day for a man +to be bound prentice, when he is past using of his +trade; to set up an equipage of noise, when he has +<span class="pgnm">449</span><a id="page_449" name="page_449"></a> +most need of quiet; instead of her being under covert-baron, +to be under covert-femme myself; to +have my body disabled, and my head fortified; and, +lastly, to be crowded into a narrow box with a shrill +treble,<br /> +<span class="i1">That with one blast through the whole house does bound,</span><br /> +<span class="i1">And first taught speaking-trumpets how to sound.</span><span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">SCENE II.—<i>The Court.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Raymond, Alphonso,</span> and <span class="cnm">Pedro.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Are these, are these, ye powers, the promised joys,<br /> +With which I flattered my long, tedious absence,<br /> +To find, at my return, my master murdered?<br /> +O, that I could but weep, to vent my passion!<br /> +But this dry sorrow burns up all my tears.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Mourn inward, brother; 'tis observed at court,<br /> +Who weeps, and who wears black; and your return<br /> +Will fix all eyes on every act of yours,<br /> +To see how you resent King Sancho's death.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> What generous man can live with that constraint<br /> +Upon his soul, to bear, much less to flatter,<br /> +A court like this! Can I sooth tyranny?<br /> +Seem pleased to see my royal master murdered,<br /> +His crown usurped, a distaff in the throne,<br /> +A council made of such as dare not speak,<br /> +And could not, if they durst; whence honest men<br /> +Banish themselves, for shame of being there:<br /> +A government, that, knowing not true wisdom,<br /> +Is scorned abroad, and lives on tricks at home?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Virtue must be thrown off; 'tis a coarse garment,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">450</span><a id="page_450" name="page_450"></a> +Too heavy for the sun-shine of a court.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Well then, I will dissemble, for an end<br /> +So great, so pious, as a just revenge:<br /> +You'll join with me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> No honest man but must.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> What title has this queen, but lawless force?<br /> +And force must pull her down.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Truth is, I pity Leonora's case;<br /> +Forced, for her safety, to commit a crime,<br /> +Which most her soul abhors.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> All she has done, or e'er can do, of good,<br /> +This one black deed has damned.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped,</span> You'll hardly gain your son to our design.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Your reason for't?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> I want time to unriddle it:<br /> +Put on your t'other face, the queen approaches.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Leonora, Bertran,</span> and Attendants.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> And that accursed Bertran<br /> +Stalks close behind her, like a witch's fiend,<br /> +Pressing to be employed; stand, and observe them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> to <i>Bert.</i> Buried in private, and so suddenly!<br /> +It crosses my design, which was to allow<br /> +The rites of funeral fitting his degree,<br /> +With all the pomp of mourning.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> It was not safe:<br /> +Objects of pity, when the cause is new,<br /> +Would work too fiercely on the giddy crowd:<br /> +Had Cæsar's body never been exposed,<br /> +Brutus had gained his cause.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Then, was he loved?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> O, never man so much, for saint-like goodness.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> Had bad men feared him, but as good men loved him,<br /> +He had not yet been sainted.<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> I wonder how the people bear his death.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">451</span><a id="page_451" name="page_451"></a> +<span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Some discontents there are; some idle murmurs.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> How, idle murmurs! Let me plainly speak:<br /> +The doors are all shut up; the wealthier sort,<br /> +With arms across, and hats upon their eyes,<br /> +Walk to and fro before their silent shops;<br /> +Whole droves of lenders crowd the bankers' doors,<br /> +To call in money; those, who have none, mark<br /> +Where money goes; for when they rise, 'tis plunder:<br /> +The rabble gather round the man of news,<br /> +And listen with their mouths;<br /> +Some tell, some hear, some judge of news, some make it;<br /> +And he, who lies most loud, is most believed.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> This may be dangerous.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Pray heaven it may!<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> If one of you must fall,<br /> +Self-preservation is the first of laws;<br /> +And if, when subjects are oppressed by kings,<br /> +They justify rebellion by that law,<br /> +As well may monarchs turn the edge of right<br /> +To cut for them, when self-defence requires it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> You place such arbitrary power in kings,<br /> +That I much fear, if I should make you one,<br /> +You'll make yourself a tyrant; let these know<br /> +By what authority you did this act.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> You much surprise me, to demand that question:<br /> +But, since truth must be told, 'twas by your own.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Produce it; or, by heaven, your head shall answer<br /> +The forfeit of your tongue.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Brave mischief towards.<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> You bade me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> When, and where?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> No, I confess, you bade me not in words;<br /> +The dial spoke not, but it made shrewd signs,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">452</span><a id="page_452" name="page_452"></a> +And pointed full upon the stroke of murder:<br /> +Yet this you said,<br /> +You were a woman, ignorant and weak,<br /> +So left it to my care.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> What, if I said,<br /> +I was a woman, ignorant and weak,<br /> +Were you to take the advantage of my sex,<br /> +And play the devil to tempt me? You contrived,<br /> +You urged, you drove me headlong to your toils;<br /> +And if, much tired, and frighted more, I paused,<br /> +Were you to make my doubts your own commission?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> This 'tis, to serve a prince too faithfully;<br /> +Who, free from laws himself, will have that done,<br /> +Which, not performed, brings us to sure disgrace;<br /> +And, if performed, to ruin.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> This 'tis, to counsel things that are unjust;<br /> +First, to debauch a king to break his laws,<br /> +Which are his safety, and then seek protection<br /> +From him you have endangered; but, just heaven,<br /> +When sins are judged, will damn the tempting devil,<br /> +More deep than those he tempted.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> If princes not protect their ministers,<br /> +What man will dare to serve them?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> None will dare<br /> +To serve them ill, when they are left to laws;<br /> +But, when a counsellor, to save himself,<br /> +Would lay miscarriages upon his prince,<br /> +Exposing him to public rage and hate;<br /> +O, 'tis an act as infamously base,<br /> +As, should a common soldier sculk behind,<br /> +And thrust his general in the front of war:<br /> +It shews, he only served himself before,<br /> +And had no sense of honour, country, king,<br /> +But centered on himself, and used his master,<br /> +As guardians do their wards, with shews of care,<br /> +But with intent to sell the public safety,<br /> +And pocket up his prince.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">453</span><a id="page_453" name="page_453"></a> +<span class="cnm">Ped.</span> Well said, i'faith;<br /> +This speech is e'en too good for an usurper.<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> I see for whom I must be sacrificed;<br /> +And, had I not been sotted with my zeal,<br /> +I might have found it sooner.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> From my sight!<br /> +The prince, who bears an insolence like this,<br /> +Is such an image of the powers above,<br /> +As is the statue of the thundering god,<br /> +Whose bolts the boys may play with.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Unrevenged<br /> +I will not fall, nor single.<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Welcome, welcome! +<span class="sdr">[To RAYM. who kisses her hand.</span><br /> +I saw you not before: One honest lord<br /> +Is hid with ease among a crowd of courtiers.<br /> +How can I be too grateful to the father<br /> +Of such a son as Torrismond?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> His actions were but duty.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Yet, my lord,<br /> +All have not paid that debt, like noble Torrismond.<br /> +You hear, how Bertran brands me with a crime,<br /> +Of which, your son can witness, I am free.<br /> +I sent to stop the murder, but too late;<br /> +For crimes are swift, but penitence is slow:<br /> +The bloody Bertran, diligent in ill,<br /> +Flew to prevent the soft returns of pity.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> O cursed haste, of making sure of sin!—<br /> +Can you forgive the traitor?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Never, never:<br /> +'Tis written here in characters so deep,<br /> +That seven years hence, ('till then should I not meet him,)<br /> +And in the temple then, I'll drag him thence,<br /> +Even from the holy altar to the block.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> She's fired, as I would wish her; aid me, justice, +<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /> +<span class="pgnm">454</span><a id="page_454" name="page_454"></a> +As all my ends are thine, to gain this point,<br /> +And ruin both at once.—It wounds, indeed,<span class="sdr">[To her.</span><br /> +To bear affronts, too great to be forgiven,<br /> +And not have power to punish; yet one way<br /> +There is to ruin Bertran.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> O, there's none;<br /> +Except an host from heaven can make such haste<br /> +To save my crown, as he will do to seize it.<br /> +You saw, he came surrounded with his friends,<br /> +And knew, besides, our army was removed<br /> +To quarters too remote for sudden use.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Yet you may give commission<br /> +To some bold man, whose loyalty you trust,<br /> +And let him raise the train-bands of the city.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Gross feeders, lion talkers, lamb-like fighters.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> You do not know the virtues of your city,<br /> +What pushing force they have; some popular chief,<br /> +More noisy than the rest, but cries halloo,<br /> +And, in a trice, the bellowing herd come out;<br /> +The gates are barred, the ways are barricadoed,<br /> +And <i>One and all's</i> the word; true cocks o'the game,<br /> +That never ask, for what, or whom, they fight;<br /> +But turn them out, and shew them but a foe,<br /> +Cry—<i>Liberty!</i> and that's a cause of quarrel.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> There may be danger in that boisterous rout:<br /> +Who knows, when fires are kindled for my foes,<br /> +But some new blast of wind may turn those flames<br /> +Against my palace-walls?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> But still their chief<br /> +Must be some one, whose loyalty you trust.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> And who more proper for that trust than you,<br /> +Whose interests, though unknown to you, are mine?<br /> +Alphonso, Pedro, haste to raise the rabble;<br /> +He shall appear to head them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside to <span class="cnm">Alph.</span> and <span class="cnm">Ped.</span></span>]<br /> +First sieze Bertran,<br /> +And then insinuate to them, that I bring<br /> +<span class="pgnm">455</span><a id="page_455" name="page_455"></a> +Their lawful prince to place upon the throne.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Our lawful prince!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Fear not; I can produce him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> [<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Alph.</span></span>]<br /> +Now we want your son Lorenzo: what a mighty faction<br /> +Would he make for us of the city-wives,<br /> +With,—Oh, dear husband, my sweet honey husband,<br /> +Wont you be for the colonel? if you love me,<br /> +Be for the colonel; Oh, he's the finest man! +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Alph.</span> and <span class="cnm">Ped.</span></span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> So, now we have a plot behind the plot.<br /> +She thinks, she's in the depth of my design,<br /> +And that 'tis all for her; but time shall show,<br /> +She only lives to help me ruin others,<br /> +And last, to fall herself.<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Now, to you, Raymond: can you guess no reason<br /> +Why I repose such confidence in you?<br /> +You needs must think,<br /> +There's some more powerful cause than loyalty:<br /> +Will you not speak, to save a lady's blush?<br /> +Need I inform you, 'tis for Torrismond,<br /> +That all this grace is shown?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> By all the powers, worse, worse than what I feared! +<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> And yet, what need I blush at such a choice?<br /> +I love a man whom I am proud to love,<br /> +And am well pleased my inclination gives<br /> +What gratitude would force. O pardon me;<br /> +I ne'er was covetous of wealth before;<br /> +Yet think so vast a treasure as your son,<br /> +Too great for any private man's possession;<br /> +And him too rich a jewel, to be set<br /> +In vulgar metal, or for vulgar use.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Arm me with patience, heaven!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> How, patience, Raymond?<br /> +What exercise of patience have you here?<br /> +<span class="pgnm">456</span><a id="page_456" name="page_456"></a> +What find you in my crown to be contemned;<br /> +Or in my person loathed? Have I, a queen,<br /> +Past by my fellow-rulers of the world,<br /> +Whose vying crowns lay glittering in my way,<br /> +As if the world were paved with diadems?<br /> +Have I refused their blood, to mix with yours,<br /> +And raise new kings from so obscure a race,<br /> +Fate scarce knew where to find them, when I called?<br /> +Have I heaped on my person, crown, and state,<br /> +To load the scale, and weighed myself with earth,<br /> +For you to spurn the balance?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Bate the last, and 'tis what I would say:<br /> +Can I, can any loyal subject, see<br /> +With patience, such a stoop from sovereignty,<br /> +An ocean poured upon a narrow brook?<br /> +My zeal for you must lay the father by,<br /> +And plead my country's cause against my son.<br /> +What though his heart be great, his actions gallant,<br /> +He wants a crown to poise against a crown,<br /> +Birth to match birth, and power to balance power.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> All these I have, and these I can bestow;<br /> +But he brings worth and virtue to my bed;<br /> +And virtue is the wealth which tyrants want:<br /> +I stand in need of one, whose glories may<br /> +Redeem my crimes, ally me to his fame,<br /> +Dispel the factions of my foes on earth,<br /> +Disarm the justice of the powers above.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> The people never will endure this choice.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> If I endure it, what imports it you?<br /> +Go, raise the ministers of my revenge,<br /> +Guide with your breath this whirling tempest round,<br /> +And see its fury fall where I design.<br /> +At last a time for just revenge is given;<br /> +Revenge, the darling attribute of heaven:<br /> +But man, unlike his Maker, bears too long;<br /> +Still more exposed, the more he pardons wrong;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">457</span><a id="page_457" name="page_457"></a> +Great in forgiving, and in suffering brave;<br /> +To be a saint, he makes himself a slave.<span class="sdr">[Exit Queen.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> [<span class="sdm">Solus.</span>]<br /> +Marriage with Torrismond! it must not be,<br /> +By heaven, it must not be! or, if it be,<br /> +Law, justice, honour, bid farewell to earth,<br /> +For heaven leaves all to tyrants.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Torrismond,</span> who kneels to him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> O, very welcome, sir!<br /> +But doubly now! You come in such a time,<br /> +As if propitious fortune took a care,<br /> +To swell my tide of joys to their full height,<br /> +And leave me nothing farther to desire.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> I hope, I come in time, if not to make,<br /> +At least to save your fortune and your honour.<br /> +Take heed you steer your vessel right, my son;<br /> +This calm of heaven, this mermaid's melody,<br /> +Into an unseen whirlpool draws you fast,<br /> +And, in a moment, sinks you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Fortune cannot,<br /> +And fate can scarce; I've made the port already,<br /> +And laugh securely at the lazy storm,<br /> +That wanted wings to reach me in the deep.<br /> +Your pardon, sir; my duty calls me hence;<br /> +I go to find my queen, my earthly goddess,<br /> +To whom I owe my hopes, my life, my love.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> You owe her more, perhaps, than you imagine;<br /> +Stay, I command you stay, and hear me first.<br /> +This hour's the very crisis of your fate,<br /> +Your good or ill, your infamy or fame,<br /> +And all the colour of your life, depends<br /> +On this important now.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> I see no danger;<br /> +The city, army, court, espouse my cause,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">458</span><a id="page_458" name="page_458"></a> +And, more than all, the queen, with public favour,<br /> +Indulges my pretensions to her love.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Nay, if possessing her can make you happy,<br /> +'Tis granted, nothing hinders your design.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> If she can make me blest? she only can;<br /> +Empire, and wealth, and all she brings beside,<br /> +Are but the train and trappings of her love:<br /> +The sweetest, kindest, truest of her sex,<br /> +In whose possession years roll round on years,<br /> +And joys, in circles, meet new joys again;<br /> +Kisses, embraces, languishing, and death,<br /> +Still from each other to each other move,<br /> +To crown the various seasons of our love;<br /> +And doubt you if such love can make me happy?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Yes; for, I think, you love your honour more.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> And what can shock my honour in a queen?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> A tyrant, an usurper?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Grant she be;<br /> +When from the conqueror we hold our lives,<br /> +We yield ourselves his subjects from that hour;<br /> +For mutual benefits make mutual ties.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Why, can you think I owe a thief my life,<br /> +Because he took it not by lawless force?<br /> +What, if he did not all the ill he could?<br /> +Am I obliged by that to assist his rapines,<br /> +And to maintain his murders?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Not to maintain, but bear them unrevenged.<br /> +Kings' titles commonly begin by force,<br /> +Which time wears off, and mellows into right;<br /> +So power, which, in one age, is tyranny,<br /> +Is ripened, in the next, to true succession:<br /> +She's in possession.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> So diseases are:<br /> +Should not a lingering fever be removed,<br /> +Because it long has raged within my blood?<br /> +Do I rebel, when I would thrust it out?<br /> +<span class="pgnm">459</span><a id="page_459" name="page_459"></a> +What, shall I think the world was made for one,<br /> +And men are born for kings, as beasts for men,<br /> +Not for protection, but to be devoured?<br /> +Mark those, who dote on arbitrary power,<br /> +And you shall find them either hot-brained youth,<br /> +Or needy bankrupts, servile in their greatness,<br /> +And slaves to some, to lord it o'er the rest.<br /> +O baseness, to support a tyrant throne,<br /> +And crush your freeborn brethren of the world!<br /> +Nay, to become a part of usurpation;<br /> +To espouse the tyrant's person and her crimes,<br /> +And, on a tyrant, get a race of tyrants,<br /> +To be your country's curse in after ages.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> I see no crime in her whom I adore,<br /> +Or, if I do, her beauty makes it none:<br /> +Look on me as a man abandoned o'er<br /> +To an eternal lethargy of love;<br /> +To pull, and pinch, and wound me, cannot cure,<br /> +And but disturb the quiet of my death.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> O virtue, virtue! what art thou become,<br /> +That man should leave thee for that toy, a woman,<br /> +Made from the dross and refuse of a man!<br /> +Heaven took him, sleeping, when he made her too;<br /> +Had man been waking, he had ne'er consented.<br /> +Now, son, suppose<br /> +Some brave conspiracy were ready formed,<br /> +To punish tyrants, and redeem the land,<br /> +Could you so far belie your country's hope,<br /> +As not to head the party?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> How could my hand rebel against my heart?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> How could your heart rebel against your reason?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> No honour bids me fight against myself;<br /> +The royal family is all extinct,<br /> +And she, who reigns, bestows her crown on me:<br /> +So must I be ungrateful to the living,<br /> +To be but vainly pious to the dead,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">460</span><a id="page_460" name="page_460"></a> +While you defraud your offspring of their fate.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Mark who defraud their offspring, you or I?<br /> +For know, there yet survives the lawful heir<br /> +Of Sancho's blood, whom when I shall produce,<br /> +I rest assured to see you pale with fear,<br /> +And trembling at his name.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> He must be more than man, who makes me tremble.<br /> +I dare him to the field, with all the odds<br /> +Of justice on his side, against my tyrant:<br /> +Produce your lawful prince, and you shall see<br /> +How brave a rebel love has made your son.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Read that; 'tis with the royal signet signed,<br /> +And given me, by the king, when time should serve,<br /> +To be perused by you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> [<span class="sdm">Reads.</span>] <i>I, the king.<br /> +My youngest and alone surviving son,<br /> +Reported dead, to escape rebellious rage,<br /> +Till happier times shall call his courage forth,<br /> +To break my fetters, or revenge my fate,<br /> +I will that Raymond educate as his,<br /> +And call him Torrismond—</i><br /> +If I am he, that son, that Torrismond,<br /> +The world contains not so forlorn a wretch!<br /> +Let never man believe he can be happy!<br /> +For, when I thought my fortune most secure,<br /> +One fatal moment tears me from my joys;<br /> +And when two hearts were joined by mutual love,<br /> +The sword of justice cuts upon the knot,<br /> +And severs them for ever.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> True, it must.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> O, cruel man, to tell me that it must!<br /> +If you have any pity in your breast,<br /> +Redeem me from this labyrinth of fate,<br /> +And plunge me in my first obscurity.<br /> +The secret is alone between us two;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">461</span><a id="page_461" name="page_461"></a> +And, though you would not hide me from myself,<br /> +O, yet be kind, conceal me from the world,<br /> +And be my father still!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Your lot's too glorious, and the proof's too plain.<br /> +Now, in the name of honour, sir, I beg you,—<br /> +Since I must use authority no more,—<br /> +On these old knees, I beg you, ere I die,<br /> +That I may see your father's death revenged.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Why, 'tis the only business of my life;<br /> +My order's issued to recall the army,<br /> +And Bertran's death's resolved.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> And not the queen's? O, she's the chief offender!<br /> +Shall justice turn her edge within your hand?<br /> +No, if she 'scape, you are yourself the tyrant,<br /> +And murderer of your father.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Cruel fates!<br /> +To what have you reserved me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Why that sigh?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Since you must know,—but break, O break, my heart,<br /> +Before I tell my fatal story out!—<br /> +The usurper of my throne, my house's ruin!<br /> +The murderer of my father,—is my wife!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> O horror, horror!—After this alliance,<br /> +Let tigers match with hinds, and wolves with sheep,<br /> +And every creature couple with his foe.<br /> +How vainly man designs, when heaven opposes!<br /> +I bred you up to arms, raised you to power,<br /> +Permitted you to fight for this usurper,<br /> +Indeed to save a crown, not hers, but yours,<br /> +All to make sure the vengeance of this day,<br /> +Which even this day has ruined. One more question<br /> +Let me but ask, and I have done for ever;—<br /> +Do you yet love the cause of all your woes,<br /> +Or is she grown, as sure she ought to be,<br /> +More odious to your sight than toads and adders?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">462</span><a id="page_462" name="page_462"></a> +<span class="cnm">Tor.</span> O there's the utmost malice of my fate,<br /> +That I am bound to hate, and born to love!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> No more!—Farewell, my much lamented king!—<br /> +I dare not trust him with himself so far,<br /> +To own him to the people as their king,<br /> +Before their rage has finished my designs<br /> +On Bertran and the queen; but in despite,<br /> +Even of himself, I'll save him.<span class="sdr">[Aside and exit.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> 'Tis but a moment since I have been king,<br /> +And weary on't already; I'm a lover,<br /> +And loved, possess,—yet all these make me wretched;<br /> +And heaven has given me blessings for a curse.<br /> +With what a load of vengeance am I prest,<br /> +Yet, never, never, can I hope for rest;<br /> +For when my heavy burden I remove,<br /> +The weight falls down, and crushes her I love.<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">ACT V.<br /> +SCENE I.—<i>A Bed-Chamber.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Torrismond.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Love, justice, nature, pity, and revenge,<br /> +Have kindled up a wildfire in my breast,<br /> +And I am all a civil war within!</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter Queen and <span class="cnm">Teresa,</span> at a distance.</p> + +<p class="dlg">My Leonora there!—<br /> +Mine! is she mine? my father's murderer mine?<br /> +O! that I could, with honour, love her more,<br /> +Or hate her less, with reason!—See, she weeps!<br /> +Thinks me unkind, or false, and knows not why<br /> +I thus estrange my person from her bed!<br /> +<span class="pgnm">463</span><a id="page_463" name="page_463"></a> +Shall I not tell her?—no; 'twill break her heart;<br /> +She'll know too soon her own and my misfortunes.<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> He's gone, and I am lost; did'st thou not see<br /> +His sullen eyes? how gloomily they glanced?<br /> +He looked not like the Torrismond I loved.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ter.</span> Can you not guess from whence this change proceeds?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> No: there's the grief, Teresa: Oh, Teresa!<br /> +Fain would I tell thee what I feel within,<br /> +But shame and modesty have tied my tongue!<br /> +Yet, I will tell, that thou may'st weep with me.—<br /> +How dear, how sweet his first embraces were!<br /> +With what a zeal he joined his lips to mine!<br /> +And sucked my breath at every word I spoke,<br /> +As if he drew his inspiration hence:<br /> +While both our souls came upward to our mouths,<br /> +As neighbouring monarchs at their borders meet;<br /> +I thought—Oh, no; 'tis false! I could not think;<br /> +'Twas neither life nor death, but both in one.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ter.</span> Then, sure his transports were not less than yours.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> More, more! for, by the high-hung tapers' light,<br /> +I could discern his cheeks were glowing red,<br /> +His very eyeballs trembled with his love,<br /> +And sparkled through their casements humid fires;<br /> +He sighed, and kissed; breathed short, and would have spoke,<br /> +But was too fierce to throw away the time;<br /> +All he could say was—love and Leonora.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ter.</span> How then can you suspect him lost so soon?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Last night he flew not with a bridegroom's haste,<br /> +Which eagerly prevents the appointed hour:<br /> +I told the clocks, and watched the wasting light,<br /> +And listened to each softly-treading step,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">464</span><a id="page_464" name="page_464"></a> +In hope 'twas he; but still it was not he.<br /> +At last he came, but with such altered looks,<br /> +So wild, so ghastly, as if some ghost had met him:<br /> +All pale, and speechless, he surveyed me round;<br /> +Then, with a groan, he threw himself a-bed,<br /> +But, far from me, as far as he could move,<br /> +And sighed and tossed, and turned, but still from me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ter.</span> What, all the night?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Even all the livelong night.<br /> +At last, (for, blushing, I must tell thee all,)<br /> +I pressed his hand, and laid me by his side;<br /> +He pulled it back, as if he touched a serpent.<br /> +With that I burst into a flood of tears,<br /> +And asked him how I had offended him?<br /> +He answered nothing, but with sighs and groans;<br /> +So, restless, past the night; and, at the dawn,<br /> +Leapt from the bed, and vanished.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ter.</span> Sighs and groans,<br /> +Paleness and trembling, all are signs of love;<br /> +He only fears to make you share his sorrows.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> I wish 'twere so; but love still doubts the worst;<br /> +My heavy heart, the prophetess of woes,<br /> +Forebodes some ill at hand: to sooth my sadness,<br /> +Sing me the song, which poor Olympia made,<br /> +When false Bireno left her.</p> + +<div class="poem"> +<h4>SONG.</h4> +<div class="stanza pi"> +<p>Farewell, ungrateful traitor!</p> +<p class="i1">Farewell, my perjured swain!</p> +<p>Let never injured creature</p> +<p class="i1">Believe a man again.</p> +<p>The pleasure of possessing</p> +<p>Surpasses all expressing,</p> +<p>But 'tis too short a blessing,</p> +<p class="i1">And love too long a pain.</p> +</div> +<div class="stanza pi"> +<span class="pgnm">465</span><a id="page_465" name="page_465"></a> +<p>'Tis easy to deceive us,</p> +<p class="i1">In pity of your pain;</p> +<p>But when we love, you leave us,</p> +<p class="i1">To rail at you in vain.</p> +<p>Before we have descried it,</p> +<p>There is no bliss beside it;</p> +<p>But she, that once has tried it,</p> +<p class="i1">Will never love again.</p> +</div> +<div class="stanza pi"> +<p>The passion you pretended,</p> +<p class="i1">Was only to obtain;</p> +<p>But when the charm is ended,</p> +<p class="i1">The charmer you disdain.</p> +<p>Your love by ours we measure,</p> +<p>Till we have lost our treasure;</p> +<p>But dying is a pleasure,</p> +<p class="i1">When living is a pain.</p> +</div></div> + +<p class="sdn">Re-enter <span class="cnm">Torrismond.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Still she is here, and still I cannot speak;<br /> +But wander, like some discontented ghost,<br /> +That oft appears, but is forbid to talk.<span class="sdr">[Going again.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> O, Torrismond, if you resolve my death,<br /> +You need no more, but to go hence again;<br /> +Will you not speak?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> I cannot.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Speak! oh, speak!<br /> +Your anger would be kinder than your silence.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Oh!—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Do not sigh, or tell me why you sigh.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Why do I live, ye powers!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Why do I live to hear you speak that word?<br /> +Some black-mouthed villain has defamed my virtue.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> No, no! Pray, let me go.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> [<span class="sdm">Kneeling.</span>] You shall not go!<br /> +<span class="pgnm">466</span><a id="page_466" name="page_466"></a> +By all the pleasures of our nuptial bed,<br /> +If ever I was loved, though now I'm not,<br /> +By these true tears, which, from my wounded heart,<br /> +Bleed at my eyes—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Rise.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> I will never rise;<br /> +I cannot chuse a better place to die.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Oh! I would speak, but cannot.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> [<span class="sdm">Rising.</span>]<br /> +Guilt keeps you silent then; you love me not:<br /> +What have I done, ye powers, what have I done,<br /> +To see my youth, my beauty, and my love,<br /> +No sooner gained, but slighted and betrayed;<br /> +And, like a rose, just gathered from the stalk,<br /> +But only smelt, and cheaply thrown aside,<br /> +To wither on the ground.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ter.</span> For heaven's sake, madam, moderate your passion!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Why namest thou heaven? there is no heaven for me.<br /> +Despair, death, hell, have seized my tortured soul!<br /> +When I had raised his grovelling fate from ground,<br /> +To power and love, to empire, and to me;<br /> +When each embrace was dearer than the first;<br /> +Then, then to be contemned; then, then thrown off!<br /> +It calls me old, and withered, and deformed,<br /> +And loathsome! Oh! what woman can bear loathsome?<br /> +The turtle flies not from his billing mate,<br /> +He bills the closer; but, ungrateful man,<br /> +Base, barbarous man! the more we raise our love,<br /> +The more we pall, and kill, and cool his ardour.<br /> +Racks, poison, daggers, rid me of my life;<br /> +And any death is welcome.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Be witness all ye powers, that know my heart,<br /> +I would have kept the fatal secret hid;<br /> +But she has conquered, to her ruin conquered:<br /> +<span class="pgnm">467</span><a id="page_467" name="page_467"></a> +Here, take this paper, read our destinies;—<br /> +Yet do not; but, in kindness to yourself,<br /> +Be ignorantly safe.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> No! give it me,<br /> +Even though it be the sentence of my death.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Then see how much unhappy love has made us.<br /> +O Leonora! Oh!<br /> +We two were born when sullen planets reigned;<br /> +When each the other's influence opposed,<br /> +And drew the stars to factions at our birth.<br /> +Oh! better, better had it been for us,<br /> +That we had never seen, or never loved.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> There is no faith in heaven, if heaven says so;<br /> +You dare not give it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> As unwillingly,<br /> +As I would reach out opium to a friend,<br /> +Who lay in torture, and desired to die.<span class="sdr">[Gives the Paper.</span><br /> +But now you have it, spare my sight the pain<br /> +Of seeing what a world of tears it costs you.<br /> +Go, silently, enjoy your part of grief,<br /> +And share the sad inheritance with me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> I have a thirsty fever in my soul;<br /> +Give me but present ease, and let me die. +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt Queen and <span class="cnm">Teresa.</span></span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Lorenzo.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Arm, arm, my lord! the city bands are up;<br /> +Drums beating, colours flying, shouts confused;<br /> +All clustering in a heap, like swarming hives,<br /> +And rising in a moment.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> With design to punish Bertran, and revenge the king;<br /> +'Twas ordered so.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Then you're betrayed, my lord.<br /> +'Tis true, they block the castle kept by Bertran,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">468</span><a id="page_468" name="page_468"></a> +But now they cry, "Down with the palace, fire it,<br /> +Pull out the usurping queen!"</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> The queen, Lorenzo! durst they name the queen?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> If railing and reproaching be to name her.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> O sacrilege! say quickly, who commands<br /> +This vile blaspheming rout?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> I'm loth to tell you;<br /> +But both our fathers thrust them headlong on,<br /> +And bear down all before them.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Death and hell!<br /> +Somewhat must be resolved, and speedily.<br /> +How say'st thou, my Lorenzo? dar'st thou be<br /> +A friend, and once forget thou art a son,<br /> +To help me save the queen?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Let me consider:—<br /> +Bear arms against my father? he begat me;—<br /> +That's true; but for whose sake did he beget me?<br /> +For his own, sure enough: for me he knew not.<br /> +Oh! but says conscience,—Fly in nature's face?—<br /> +But how, if nature fly in my face first?<br /> +Then nature's the aggressor; let her look to't.—<br /> +He gave me life, and he may take it back:<br /> +No, that's boys' play, say I.<br /> +'Tis policy for a son and father to take different sides:<br /> +For then, lands and tenements commit no treason.<br /> +[<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Tor.</span></span>] Sir, upon mature consideration, I have +found my father to be little better than a rebel, and +therefore, I'll do my best to secure him, for your +sake; in hope, you may secure him hereafter for my +sake.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Put on thy utmost speed to head the troops,<br /> +Which every moment I expect to arrive;<br /> +Proclaim me, as I am, the lawful king:<br /> +I need not caution thee for Raymond's life,<br /> +Though I no more must call him father now.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> [<i>Aside.</i>] How! not call him father? I see +<span class="pgnm">469</span><a id="page_469" name="page_469"></a> +preferment alters a man strangely; this may serve +me for a use of instruction, to cast off my father +when I am great. Methought too, he called himself +the lawful king; intimating sweetly, that he +knows what's what with our sovereign lady:—Well +if I rout my father, as I hope in heaven I +shall, I am in a fair way to be the prince of the +blood.—Farewell, general; I will bring up those that +shall try what mettle there is in orange tawny.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> [<span class="sdm">At the Door.</span>]<br /> +Haste there; command the guards be all drawn up<br /> +Before the palace-gate.—By heaven, I'll face<br /> +This tempest, and deserve the name of king!<br /> +O Leonora, beauteous in thy crimes,<br /> +Never were hell and heaven so matched before!<br /> +Look upward, fair, but as thou look'st on me;<br /> +<span class="i1">Then all the blest will beg, that thou may'st live,</span><br /> +<span class="i1">And even my father's ghost his death forgive.</span><span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<h4 class="scn">SCENE II.—<i>The Palace-Yard. Drums and Trumpets +within.</i></h4> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Raymond, Alphonso, Pedro,</span> and their +Party.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Now, valiant citizens, the time is come,<br /> +To show your courage, and your loyalty.<br /> +You have a prince of Sancho's royal blood,<br /> +The darling of the heavens, and joy of earth;<br /> +When he's produced, as soon he shall, among you,<br /> +Speak, what will you adventure to reseat him<br /> +Upon his father's throne?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Omn.</span> Our lives and fortunes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> What then remains to perfect our success;<br /> +But o'er the tyrant's guards to force our way?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">470</span><a id="page_470" name="page_470"></a> +<span class="cnm">Omn.</span> Lead on, lead on. +<span class="sdr">[Drums and Trumpets on the other side.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Torrismond</span> and his Party: As they are going +to fight, he speaks.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> [<span class="sdm">To his.</span>] Hold, hold your arms.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> [<span class="sdm">To his.</span>] Retire.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> What means this pause?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> Peace; nature works within them. +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Alph.</span> and <span class="cnm">Ped.</span> go apart.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> How comes it, good old man, that we two meet<br /> +On these harsh terms? thou very reverend rebel;<br /> +Thou venerable traitor, in whose face<br /> +And hoary hairs treason is sanctified,<br /> +And sin's black dye seems blanched by age to virtue.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> What treason is it to redeem my king,<br /> +And to reform the state?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> That's a stale cheat;<br /> +The primitive rebel, Lucifer, first used it,<br /> +And was the first reformer of the skies.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> What, if I see my prince mistake a poison,<br /> +Call it a cordial,—am I then a traitor,<br /> +Because I hold his hand, or break the glass?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> How darest thou serve thy king against his will?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Because 'tis then the only time to serve him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> I take the blame of all upon myself;<br /> +Discharge thy weight on me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> O never, never!<br /> +Why, 'tis to leave a ship, tossed in a tempest,<br /> +Without the pilot's care.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> I'll punish thee;<br /> +By heaven, I will, as I would punish rebels,<br /> +Thou stubborn loyal man!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> First let me see<br /> +<span class="pgnm">471</span><a id="page_471" name="page_471"></a> +Her punished, who misleads you from your fame;<br /> +Then burn me, hack me, hew me into pieces,<br /> +And I shall die well pleased.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Proclaim my title,<br /> +To save the effusion of my subjects' blood; and thou shalt still<br /> +Be as my foster-father near my breast,<br /> +And next my Leonora.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> That word stabs me.<br /> +You shall be still plain Torrismond with me;<br /> +The abettor, partner, (if you like that name,)<br /> +The husband of a tyrant; but no king,<br /> +Till you deserve that title by your justice.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Then farewell, pity; I will be obeyed.—<br /> +[<i>To the People.</i>] Hear, you mistaken men, whose loyalty<br /> +Runs headlong into treason: See your prince!<br /> +In me behold your murdered Sancho's son;<br /> +Dismiss your arms, and I forgive your crimes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Believe him not; he raves; his words are loose<br /> +As heaps of sand, and scattering wide from sense.<br /> +You see he knows not me, his natural father;<br /> +But, aiming to possess the usurping queen,<br /> +So high he's mounted in his airy hopes,<br /> +That now the wind is got into his head,<br /> +And turns his brains to frenzy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Hear me yet; I am—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Fall on, fall on, and hear him not;<br /> +But spare his person, for his father's sake.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> Let me come; if he be mad, I have that +shall cure him. There's no surgeon in all Arragon +has so much dexterity as I have at breathing +of the temple-vein.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> My right for me!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Our liberty for us!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Omn.</span> Liberty, liberty!</p> + +<p class="sdn"><span class="pgnm">472</span><a id="page_472" name="page_472"></a> +As they are ready to Fight, enter <span class="cnm">Lorenzo</span> and his +Party.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> On forfeit of your lives, lay down your arms.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> How, rebel, art thou there?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> Take your rebel back again, father mine: +The beaten party are rebels to the conquerors. I +have been at hard-head with your butting citizens; +I have routed your herd; I have dispersed them; +and now they are retreated quietly, from their extraordinary +vocation of fighting in the streets, to +their ordinary vocation of cozening in their shops.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> [<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Raym.</span></span>]<br /> +You see 'tis vain contending with the truth;<br /> +Acknowledge what I am.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> You are my king;—would you would be your own!<br /> +But, by a fatal fondness, you betray<br /> +Your fame and glory to the usurper's bed.<br /> +Enjoy the fruits of blood and parricide,<br /> +Take your own crown from Leonora's gift,<br /> +And hug your father's murderer in your arms!</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter Queen, <span class="cnm">Teresa,</span> and Women.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> No more; behold the queen.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Behold the basilisk of Torrismond,<br /> +That kills him with her eyes—I will speak on;<br /> +My life is of no farther use to me:<br /> +I would have chaffered it before for vengeance;<br /> +Now let it go for failing.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> My heart sinks in me while I hear him speak,<br /> +And every slackened fibre drops its hold,<br /> +Like nature letting down the springs of life;<br /> +So much the name of father awes me still—<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /> +Send off the crowd; for you, now I have conquered,<br /> +I can hear with honour your demands.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">473</span><a id="page_473" name="page_473"></a> +<span class="cnm">Lor.</span> [<span class="sdm">To <span class="cnm">Alph.</span></span>] Now, sir, who proves the traitor? +My conscience is true to me; it always whispers +right, when I have my regiment to back it.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Lor. Alph. Ped.</span> &c.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> O Leonora, what can love do more?<br /> +I have opposed your ill fate to the utmost;<br /> +Combated heaven and earth to keep you mine;<br /> +And yet at last that tyrant justice! Oh—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> 'Tis past, 'tis past, and love is ours no more;<br /> +Yet I complain not of the powers above;<br /> +They made me a miser's feast of happiness,<br /> +And could not furnish out another meal.<br /> +Now, by yon stars, by heaven, and earth, and men,<br /> +By all my foes at once, I swear, my Torrismond,<br /> +That to have had you mine for one short day,<br /> +Has cancelled half my mighty sum of woes!<br /> +Say but you hate me not.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> I cannot hate you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Can you not? say that once more,<br /> +That all the saints may witness it against you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Cruel Raymond!<br /> +Can he not punish me, but he must hate?<br /> +O, 'tis not justice, but a brutal rage,<br /> +Which hates the offender's person with his crimes!<br /> +I have enough to overwhelm one woman,<br /> +To lose a crown and lover in a day:<br /> +Let pity lend a tear, when rigour strikes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Then, then you should have thought of tears and pity,<br /> +When virtue, majesty, and hoary age,<br /> +Pleaded for Sancho's life.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> My future days shall be one whole contrition:<br /> +A chapel will I build, with large endowment,<br /> +Where every day an hundred aged men<br /> +Shall all hold up their withered hands to heaven,<br /> +To pardon Sancho's death.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> See, Raymond, see; she makes a large amends:<br /> +<span class="pgnm">474</span><a id="page_474" name="page_474"></a> +Sancho is dead; no punishment of her<br /> +Can raise his cold stiff limbs from the dark grave;<br /> +Nor can his blessed soul look down from heaven,<br /> +Or break the eternal sabbath of his rest,<br /> +To see, with joy, her miseries on earth.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Heaven may forgive a crime to penitence,<br /> +For heaven can judge if penitence be true;<br /> +But man, who knows not hearts, should make examples<br /> +Which, like a warning piece, must be shot off,<br /> +To fright the rest from crimes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Had I but known that Sancho was his father,<br /> +I would have poured a deluge of my blood,<br /> +To save one drop of his.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Mark that, inexorable Raymond, mark!<br /> +'Twas fatal ignorance, that caused his death.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> What! if she did not know he was your father,<br /> +She knew he was a man, the best of men;<br /> +Heaven's image double-stamped, as man and king.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> He was, he was, even more than you can say;<br /> +But yet—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> But yet you barbarously murdered him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> He will not hear me out!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Was ever criminal forbid to plead?<br /> +Curb your ill-mannered zeal.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Sing to him, syren;<br /> +For I shall stop my ears: Now mince the sin,<br /> +And mollify damnation with a phrase;<br /> +Say, you consented not to Sancho's death,<br /> +But barely not forbade it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Hard-hearted man, I yield my guilty cause;<br /> +But all my guilt was caused by too much love.<br /> +Had I, for jealousy of empire, sought<br /> +Good Sancho's death, Sancho had died before.<br /> +'Twas always in my power to take his life;<br /> +But interest never could my conscience blind,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">475</span><a id="page_475" name="page_475"></a> +Till love had cast a mist before my eyes,<br /> +And made me think his death the only means<br /> +Which could secure my throne to Torrismond.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Never was fatal mischief meant so kind,<br /> +For all she gave has taken all away.<br /> +Malicious powers! is this to be restored?<br /> +'Tis to be worse deposed than Sancho was.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Heaven has restored you, you depose yourself.<br /> +Oh, when young kings begin with scorn of justice,<br /> +They make an omen to their after reign,<br /> +And blot their annals in the foremost page.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> No more; lest you be made the first example,<br /> +To show how I can punish.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Once again:<br /> +Let her be made your father's sacrifice,<br /> +And after make me hers.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Condemn a wife!<br /> +That were to atone for parricide with murder.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Then let her be divorced: we'll be content<br /> +With that poor scanty justice; let her part.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Divorce! that's worse than death, 'tis death of love.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> The soul and body part not with such pain,<br /> +As I from you; but yet 'tis just, my lord:<br /> +I am the accurst of heaven, the hate of earth,<br /> +Your subjects' detestation, and your ruin;<br /> +And therefore fix this doom upon myself.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Heaven! Can you wish it, to be mine no more?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Yes, I can wish it, as the dearest proof,<br /> +And last, that I can make you of my love.<br /> +To leave you blest, I would be more accurst<br /> +Than death can make me; for death ends our woes,<br /> +And the kind grave shuts up the mournful scene:<br /> +But I would live without you, to be wretched long;<br /> +And hoard up every moment of my life,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">476</span><a id="page_476" name="page_476"></a> +To lengthen out the payment of my tears,<br /> +Till even fierce Raymond, at the last, shall say,—<br /> +Now let her die, for she has grieved enough.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Hear this, hear this, thou tribune of the people!<br /> +Thou zealous, public blood-hound, hear, and melt!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>]<br /> +I could cry now; my eyes grow womanish,<br /> +But yet my heart holds out.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> Some solitary cloister will I chuse,<br /> +And there with holy virgins live immured:<br /> +Coarse my attire, and short shall be my sleep,<br /> +Broke by the melancholy midnight bell.<br /> +Now, Raymond, now be satisfied at last:<br /> +Fasting and tears, and penitence and prayer,<br /> +Shall do dead Sancho justice every hour.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> [<i>Aside.</i>] By your leave, manhood! +<span class="sdr">[Wipes his eyes.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> He weeps! now he is vanquished.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> No: 'tis a salt rheum, that scalds my eyes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> If he were vanquished, I am still unconquered.<br /> +I'll leave you in the height of all my love,<br /> +Even when my heart is beating out its way,<br /> +And struggles to you most.<br /> +Farewell, a last farewell, my dear, dear lord!<br /> +Remember me!—speak, Raymond, will you let him?<br /> +Shall he remember Leonora's love,<br /> +And shed a parting tear to her misfortunes?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> [<span class="sdm">Almost crying.</span>] Yes, yes, he shall; pray go.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Now, by my soul, she shall not go: why, Raymond,<br /> +Her every tear is worth a father's life.<br /> +Come to my arms, come, my fair penitent!<br /> +Let us not think what future ills may fall.<br /> +But drink deep draughts of love, and lose them all. +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt <span class="cnm">Tor.</span> with the Queen.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> No matter yet, he has my hook within him.<br /> +Now let him frisk and flounce, and run and roll,<br /> +<span class="pgnm">477</span><a id="page_477" name="page_477"></a> +And think to break his hold; he toils in vain.<br /> +This love, the bait he gorged so greedily,<br /> +Will make him sick, and then I have him sure.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Alphonso</span> and <span class="cnm">Pedro.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Brother, there's news from Bertran; he desires<br /> +Admittance to the king, and cries aloud,—<br /> +This day shall end our fears of civil war!—<br /> +For his safe conduct he entreats your presence,<br /> +And begs you would be speedy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Though I loath<br /> +The traitor's sight, I'll go. Attend us here.<span class="sdr">[Exit.</span></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Gomez, Elvira, Dominick,</span> with Officers, +to make the Stage as full as possible.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> Why, how now, Gomez? what mak'st thou +here, with a whole brotherhood of city-bailiffs? Why, +thou look'st like Adam in Paradise, with his guard +of beasts about him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Ay, and a man had need of them, Don Pedro; +for here are the two old seducers, a wife and +priest,—that's Eve and the serpent,—at my elbow.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Take notice how uncharitably he talks of +churchmen.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Indeed, you are a charitable belswagger! +My wife cried out,—"Fire, fire!" and you brought +out your church-buckets, and called for engines to +play against it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> I am sorry you are come hither to accuse +your wife; her education has been virtuous, her +nature mild and easy.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Yes! she's easy, with a vengeance; there's +a certain colonel has found her so.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> She came a spotless virgin to your bed.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> And she's a spotless virgin still for me—she's +<span class="pgnm">478</span><a id="page_478" name="page_478"></a> +never the worse for my wearing, I'll take my +oath on't. I have lived with her with all the innocence +of a man of threescore, like a peaceable bed-fellow +as I am.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> Indeed, sir, I have no reason to complain +of him for disturbing of my sleep.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> A fine commendation you have given yourself; +the church did not marry you for that.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> Come, come, your grievances, your grievances.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Why, noble sir, I'll tell you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Peace, friar! and let me speak first. I +am the plaintiff. Sure you think you are in the +pulpit, where you preach by hours.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> And you edify by minutes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Where you make doctrines for the people, +and uses and applications for yourselves.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> Gomez, give way to the old gentleman in +black.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> No! the t'other old gentleman in black +shall take me if I do; I will speak first!—Nay, I will, +friar, for all your <i>verbum sacerdotis</i>. I'll speak +truth in few words, and then you may come afterwards +and lie by the clock as you use to do.—For, +let me tell you, gentlemen, he shall lie and forswear +himself with any friar in all Spain; that's a bold +word now.—</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Let him alone; let him alone; I shall fetch +him back with a <i>circum-bendibus</i>, I warrant him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Well, what have you to say against your +wife, Gomez?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Why, I say, in the first place, that I and +all men are married for our sins, and that our wives +are a judgment; that a batchelor-cobler is a happier +man than a prince in wedlock; that we are all visited +<span class="pgnm">479</span><a id="page_479" name="page_479"></a> +with a household plague, and, <i>Lord have mercy +upon us</i> should be written on all our doors<a class="ftnt" href="#Spani_4-2">[2]</a>.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Now he reviles marriage, which is one of +the seven blessed sacraments.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> 'Tis liker one of the seven deadly sins: but +make your best on't, I care not; 'tis but binding a +man neck and heels, for all that. But, as for my +wife, that crocodile of Nilus, she has wickedly and +traitorously conspired the cuckoldom of me, her anointed +sovereign lord; and, with the help of the +aforesaid friar, whom heaven confound, and with +the limbs of one colonel Hernando, cuckold-maker +of this city, devilishly contrived to steal herself +away, and under her arm feloniously to bear one +casket of diamonds, pearls, and other jewels, to the +value of 30,000 pistoles.—Guilty, or not guilty? +how sayest thou, culprit?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> False and scandalous! Give me the book. +I'll take my corporal oath point-blank against every +particular of this charge.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> And so will I.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> As I was walking in the streets, telling +my beads, and praying to myself, according to my +usual custom, I heard a foul out-cry before Gomez' +portal; and his wife, my penitent, making doleful +lamentations: thereupon, making what haste my +limbs would suffer me, that are crippled with often +kneeling, I saw him spurning and listing her most +unmercifully; whereupon, using Christian arguments +with him to desist, he fell violently upon +me, without respect to my sacerdotal orders, pushed +me from him, and turned me about with a finger +<span class="pgnm">480</span><a id="page_480" name="page_480"></a> +and a thumb, just as a man would set up a top. +Mercy! quoth I.—Damme! quoth he;—and still +continued labouring me, until a good-minded colonel +came by, whom, as heaven shall save me, I had +never seen before.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> O Lord! O Lord!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Ay, and O lady! O lady too!—I redouble +my oath, I had never seen him. Well, this noble +colonel, like a true gentleman, was for taking the +weaker part, you may be sure; whereupon this Gomez +flew upon him like a dragon, got him down, +the devil being strong in him, and gave him bastinado +upon bastinado, and buffet upon buffet, which +the poor meek colonel, being prostrate, suffered +with a most Christian patience.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Who? he meek? I'm sure I quake at the +very thought of him; why, he's as fierce as Rhodomont; +he made assault and battery upon my person, +beat me into all the colours of the rainbow; +and every word this abominable priest has uttered +is as false as the Alcoran. But if you want a thorough-paced +liar, that will swear through thick and thin, +commend me to a friar.</p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Lorenzo,</span> who comes behind the Company, and +stands at his Fathers back unseen, over-against +<span class="cnm">Gomez.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> How now! What's here to do? my cause +a trying, as I live, and that before my own father.—Now +fourscore take him for an old bawdy magistrate, +that stands like the picture of madam Justice, +with a pair of scales in his hand, to weigh lechery +by ounces!<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Aside.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Well—but all this while, who is this colonel +Hernando?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">481</span><a id="page_481" name="page_481"></a> +<span class="cnm">Gom.</span> He's the first begotten of Beelzebub, with +a face as terrible as Demogorgon.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Lorenzo</span> peeps over <span class="cnm">Alphonso's</span> Head, +and stares at <span class="cnm">Gomez.</span></span><br /><br /> +No! I lie, I lie. He's a very proper handsome fellow! +well proportioned, and clean shaped, with a face +like a cherubin.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> What, backward and forward, Gomez! +dost thou hunt counter?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Had this colonel any former design upon +your wife? for, if that be proved, you shall have +justice.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> [<span class="sdm">Aside.</span>] Now I dare speak,—let him look +as dreadfully as he will.—I say, sir, and I will prove +it, that he had a lewd design upon her body, and +attempted to corrupt her honesty.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Lorenzo</span> lifts up his fist clenched at him.</span><br /> +I confess my wife was as willing—as himself; +and, I believe, 'twas she corrupted him; for I have +known him formerly a very civil and modest person.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> You see, sir, he contradicts himself at every +word; he's plainly mad.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> Speak boldly, man! and say what thou +wilt stand by: did he strike thee?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> I will speak boldly; he struck me on the +face before my own threshold, that the very walls +cried shame to him.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Lorenzo</span> holds up again.</span><br /> +'Tis true, I gave him provocation, for the man's +as peaceable a gentleman as any is in all Spain.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Now the truth comes out, in spite of him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Ped.</span> I believe the friar has bewitched him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> For my part, I see no wrong that has been +offered him.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> How? no wrong? why, he ravished me, +with the help of two soldiers, carried me away <i>vi et +<span class="pgnm">482</span><a id="page_482" name="page_482"></a> +armis,</i> and would put me into a plot against government.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[<span class="cnm">Lorenzo</span> holds up again.</span><br /> +I confess, I never could endure the government, +because it was tyrannical; but my sides and shoulders +are black and blue, as I can strip and show the marks +of them.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[LORENZO again.</span><br /> +But that might happen, too, by a fall that I got +yesterday upon the pebbles.<span class="sdr">[All laugh.</span></p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Fresh straw, and a dark chamber; a most +manifest judgment! there never comes better of railing +against the church.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Why, what will you have me say? I think +you'll make me mad: truth has been at my tongue's +end this half hour, and I have not power to bring it +out, for fear of this bloody-minded colonel.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> What colonel?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Why, my colonel—I mean my wife's colonel, +that appears there to me like my <i>malus genius</i>, +terrifies me.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> [<span class="sdm">Turning.</span>] Now you are mad indeed, Gomez; +this is my son Lorenzo.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> How? your son Lorenzo! it is impossible.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> As true as your wife Elvira is my daughter.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> What, have I taken all this pains about a +sister?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> No, you have taken some about me; I am +sure, if you are her brother, my sides can show the +tokens of our alliance.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> to <i>Lor.</i> You know I put your sister into +a nunnery, with a strict command not to see you, +for fear you should have wrought upon her to have +taken the habit, which was never my intention; +and consequently, I married her without your knowledge, +that it might not be in your power to prevent +it.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> You see, brother, I had a natural affection +to you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="pgnm">483</span><a id="page_483" name="page_483"></a> +<span class="cnm">Lor.</span> What a delicious harlot have I lost! Now, +pox upon me, for being so near a-kin to thee!</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Elv.</span> However, we are both beholden to friar Dominick; +the church is an indulgent mother, she +never fails to do her part.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Heavens! what will become of me?</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Why, you are not like to trouble heaven; +those fat guts were never made for mounting.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Lor.</span> I shall make bold to disburden him of my +hundred pistoles, to make him the lighter for his +journey: indeed, 'tis partly out of conscience, that +I may not be accessory to his breaking his vow of +poverty.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Alph.</span> I have no secular power to reward the pains +you have taken with my daughter; but I shall do +it by proxy, friar: your bishop's my friend, and is +too honest to let such as you infect a cloister.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Gom.</span> Ay, do, father-in-law, let him be stript of +his habit, and disordered.—I would fain see him +walk in querpo, like a cased rabbit, without his holy +fur upon his back, that the world may once behold +the inside of a friar.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Dom.</span> Farewell, kind gentlemen; I give you all +my blessing before I go.—May your sisters, wives, +and daughters, be so naturally lewd, that they +may have no occasion for a devil to tempt, or a +friar to pimp for them.<br /> +<span class="sdr">[Exeunt, with a rabble pushing him.</span><br /></p> + +<p class="sdn">Enter <span class="cnm">Torrismond, Leonora, Bertran, Raymond, +Teresa,</span> &c.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> He lives! he lives! my royal father lives!<br /> +Let every one partake the general joy.<br /> +Some angel with a golden trumpet sound,<br /> +King Sancho lives! and let the echoing skies<br /> +From pole to pole resound, king Sancho lives!—<br /> +Bertran, oh! no more my foe, but brother;<br /> +<span class="pgnm">484</span><a id="page_484" name="page_484"></a> +One act like this blots out a thousand crimes.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> Bad men, when 'tis their interest, may do good.<br /> +I must confess, I counselled Sancho's murder;<br /> +And urged the queen by specious arguments:<br /> +But, still suspecting that her love was changed,<br /> +I spread abroad the rumour of his death,<br /> +To sound the very soul of her designs.<br /> +The event, you know, was answering to my fears;<br /> +She threw the odium of the fact on me,<br /> +And publicly avowed her love to you.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Raym.</span> Heaven guided all, to save the innocent.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Bert.</span> I plead no merit, but a bare forgiveness.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Not only that, but favour. Sancho's life,<br /> +Whether by virtue or design preserved,<br /> +Claims all within my power.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Leo.</span> My prayers are heard;<br /> +And I have nothing farther to desire,<br /> +But Sancho's leave to authorise our marriage.</p> + +<p class="dlg"><span class="cnm">Tor.</span> Oh! fear not him! pity and he are one;<br /> +So merciful a king did never live;<br /> +Loth to revenge, and easy to forgive.<br /> +<span class="i1">But let the bold conspirator beware,</span><br /> +<span class="i1">For heaven makes princes its peculiar care.</span><span class="sdr">[Exeunt.</span></p> + +<div class="ftnt"> +<p>Footnotes:</p> +<ol> +<li><a id="Spani_4-1" name="Spani_4-1"></a>Alluding to the common superstition, that the continuance +of the favours of fairies depends upon the receiver's secrecy:—"This +is fairy gold, boy, and 'twill prove so: up with it, keep it +close; home, home, the nearest way. We are lucky, boy, and, to +be so still, requires nothing but secrecy;" <i>Winter's Tale.</i></li> + +<li><a id="Spani_4-2" name="Spani_4-2"></a>A red cross, with the words, "Lord have mercy upon us," +was placed, during the great plague, upon the houses visited by the +disease.</li> +</ol></div> + +<div><span class="pgnm">485</span><a id="page_485" name="page_485"></a></div> + +<h3 class="chap">EPILOGUE.<br /> +BY A FRIEND OF THE AUTHOR'S.</h3> + +<div class="poem"> +<p>There's none, I'm sure, who is a friend to love,</p> +<p>But will our Friar's character approve:</p> +<p>The ablest spark among you sometimes needs</p> +<p>Such pious help, for charitable deeds.</p> +<p>Our church, alas! (as Rome objects) does want</p> +<p>These ghostly comforts for the falling saint:</p> +<p>This gains them their whore-converts, and may be</p> +<p>One reason of the growth of popery.</p> +<p>So Mahomet's religion came in fashion,</p> +<p>By the large leave it gave to fornication.</p> +<p>Fear not the guilt, if you can pay for't well;</p> +<p>There is no Dives in the Roman Hell:</p> +<p>Gold opens the strait gate, and lets him in;</p> +<p>But want of money is a mortal sin.</p> +<p>For all besides you may discount to heaven,</p> +<p>And drop a bead to keep the tallies even.</p> +<p>How are men cozened still with shows of good!</p> +<p>The bawd's best mask is the grave friar's hood;</p> +<p>Though vice no more a clergyman displeases,</p> +<p>Than doctors can be thought to hate diseases.</p> +<p>'Tis by your living ill, that they live well,</p> +<p>By your debauches, their fat paunches swell.</p> +<p>'Tis a mock-war between the priest and devil;</p> +<p>When they think fit, they can be very civil.</p> +<p>As some, who did French counsels most advance,</p> +<p>To blind the world, have railed in print at France,</p> +<p>Thus do the clergy at your vices bawl,</p> +<p>That with more ease they may engross them all.</p> +<p>By damning yours, they do their own maintain;</p> +<p>A churchman's godliness is always gain:</p> +<p>Hence to their prince they will superior be;</p> +<p>And civil treason grows church loyalty.</p> +<p>They boast the gift of heaven is in their power;</p> +<p>Well may they give the god, they can devour!</p> +<p><span class="pgnm">486</span><a id="page_486" name="page_486"></a> +Still to the sick and dead their claims they lay;</p> +<p>For 'tis on carrion that the vermin prey.</p> +<p>Nor have they less dominion on our life,</p> +<p>They trot the husband, and they pace the wife.</p> +<p>Rouse up, you cuckolds of the northern climes,</p> +<p>And learn from Sweden to prevent such crimes.</p> +<p>Unman the Friar, and leave the holy drone</p> +<p>To hum in his forsaken hive alone;</p> +<p>He'll work no honey, when his sting is gone.</p> +<p>Your wives and daughters soon will leave the cells,</p> +<p>When they have lost the sound of Aaron's bells.</p> +</div> + +<h3>END OF THE SIXTH VOLUME.</h3> + + +<p>Edinburgh,<br /> +Printed by J. 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