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diff --git a/35303.txt b/35303.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..45609ba --- /dev/null +++ b/35303.txt @@ -0,0 +1,21260 @@ +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Beaumont & Fletcher's Works (8 of 10), by +Francis Beaumont and John Fletcher + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Beaumont & Fletcher's Works (8 of 10) + The Womans Prize; The Island Princess; The Noble Gentleman; + The Coronation; The Coxcomb + +Author: Francis Beaumont + John Fletcher + +Release Date: February 17, 2011 [EBook #35303] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BEAUMONT & FLETCHER'S WORKS *** + + + + +Produced by Jonathan Ingram and the Online Distributed +Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net + + + + + + + + + + FRANCIS BEAUMONT + Born 1584 + Died 1616 + + JOHN FLETCHER + Born 1579 + Died 1625 + + + + + _BEAUMONT AND FLETCHER_ + + THE WOMANS PRIZE + THE ISLAND PRINCESS + THE NOBLE GENTLEMAN + THE CORONATION + THE COXCOMB + + + THE TEXT EDITED BY + A. R. WALLER, M.A. + + + Cambridge: + at the University Press + 1910 + + + CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY PRESS + London: FETTER LANE, E.C. + C. F. CLAY, MANAGER + + Edinburgh: 100, PRINCES STREET + Berlin: A. ASHER AND CO. + Leipzig: F. A. BROCKHAUS + New York: G. P. PUTNAM'S SONS + Bombay and Calcutta: MACMILLAN AND CO., LTD. + + _All rights reserved_ + + + + + CONTENTS + + + PAGE + The Womans Prize 1 + The Island Princess 91 + The Noble Gentleman 171 + The Coronation 240 + The Coxcomb 308 + + + + + THE + WOMANS PRIZE, + OR + THE TAMER TAM'D. + A Comedy. + + + The Persons represented in the Play. + + Moroso, _an old rich doting Citizen, suitor to_ Livia. + Sophocles, } _Two Gentlemen, friends_ + Tranio, } _to_ Petruchio. + Petruchio, _An_ Italian _Gent. Husband to_ Maria. + Rowland, _A young Gent. in love with_ Livia. + Petronius, _Father to_ Maria _and_ Livia. + Jaques, } _Two witty servants to_ + Pedro, } Petruchio. + Doctor. + Apothecarie. + Watchmen. + Porters. + + + WOMEN. + + Maria, _A chaste witty Lady,_ } _The two masculine daughters_ + Livia, _Mistriss to_ Rowland. } _of_ Petronius. + Biancha, _Their Cosin, and Commander in chief._ + City Wives, } _To the relief of the Ladies, of which,_ + Countrey Wives, } _two were drunk._ + Maids. + + + The Scene London. + + + + + PROLOGUE. + + + _Ladies to you, in whose defence and right,_ + Fletchers _brave Muse prepar'd her self to fight + A battel without blood, 'twas well fought too, + (The victory's yours, though got with much ado.) + We do present this_ Comedy, _in which + A rivulet of pure wit flows, strong and rich + In Fancy, Language, and all parts that may + Add Grace and Ornament to a merry Play. + Which this may prove. Yet not to go too far + In promises from this our Female War. + We do intreat the angry men would not + Expect the mazes of a subtle plot, + Set Speeches, high Expressions, and what's worse, + In a true_ Comedy, _politick discourse. + The end we aim at, is to make you sport; + Yet neither gall the City, nor the Court. + Hear, and observe his Comique strain, and when + Y' are sick-of melancholy, see't agen. + 'Tis no dear Physick since 'twill quit the cost: + Or his intentions with our pains, are lost._ + + + + + _Actus Primus. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter_ Moroso, Sophocles, _and_ Tranio, _with Rosemary, as from + a wedding._ + + _Mo._ God give 'em joy. + + _Tra._ Amen. + + _Soph._ Amen, say I too: + The pudding's now i'th' proof, alas poor wench. + Through what a mine of patience must thou work, + E'r thou know'st good hour more! + + _Tra._ 'Tis too true: Certain, + Methinks her father has dealt harshly with her, + Exceeding harshly, and not like a Father, + To match her to this Dragon; I protest + I pity the poor Gentlewoman. + + _Mor._ Methinks now, + He's not so terrible as people think him. + + _Soph._ This old thief flatters, out of meer devotion, + To please the Father for his second daughter. + + _Tra._ But shall he have her? + + _Soph._ Yes, when I have _Rome_. + And yet the father's for him. + + _Mor._ I'll assure ye, + I hold him a good man. + + _Soph._ Yes sure a wealthy, + But whether a good womans man, is doubtful. + + _Tra._ Would 'twere no worse. + + _M[o]r._ What though his other wife, + Out of her most abundant soberness, + Out of her daily hue and cries upon him, + (For sure she was a rebel) turn'd his temper, + And forc'd him blow as high as she? dos't follow + He must retain that long since buried Tempest, + To this soft Maid? + + _Soph._ I fear it. + + _Tra._ So do I too: + And so far, that if God had made me woman, + And his wife that must be-- + + _Mor._ What would you do, Sir? + + _Tra._ I would learn to eat coals with an angry Cat, + And spit fire at him: I would (to prevent him) + Do all the ramping, roaring tricks, a whore + Being drunk, and tumbling ripe, would tremble at: + There is no safety else, nor moral wisdom. + To be a wife, and his. + + _Soph._ So I should think too. + + _Tra._ For yet the bare remembrance of his first wife + (I tell ye on my knowledge, and a truth too) + Will make him start in's sleep, and very often + Cry out for Cudgels, Colestaves, any thing; + Hiding his breeches, out of fear her Ghost + Should walk, and wear 'em yet. Since his first marriage, + He is no more the still _Petruchio_, + Than I am _Babylon_. + + _Soph._ He's a good fellow, + And on my word I love him: but to think + A fit match for this tender soul-- + + _Tra._ His very frown, if she but say her prayers + Louder than men talk treason, makes him tinder; + The motion of a Dial, when he's testy, + Is the same trouble to him as a Water-work; + She must do nothing of her self; not eat, + Drink, say Sir, how do ye? make her ready, unready, + Unless he bid her. + + _Soph._ He will bury her, + Ten pound to twenty shillings, within these three weeks. + + _Tra._ I'll be your half. + + _Enter_ Jaques _with a pot of Wine._ + + _Mor._ He loves her most extreamly, + And so long 'twill be Honey-moon. Now _Jaques_. + You are a busie man I am sure. + + _Jaq._ Yes certain, + This old sport must have eggs. + + _Sop._ Not yet this ten daies. + + _Jaq._ Sweet Gentlemen with Muskadel. + + _Tra._ That's right, Sir. + + _Mor._ This fellow broods his Master: speed ye _Jaques_. + + _Soph._ We shall be for you presently. + + _Jaq._ Your worships + Shall have it rich and neat: and o' my conscience + As welcome as our _Lady-day_: Oh my old Sir, + When shall we see your worship run at Ring? + That hour, a standing were worth money. + + _Mor._ So Sir. + + _Jaq._ Upon my little honesty, your Mistriss, + If I have any speculation, must think + This single thrumming of a Fiddle, + Without a Bow, but even poor sport. + + _Mor._ Y'are merry. + + _Ja._ Would I were wise too: so God bless your worship. + + _Tra._ The fellow tells you true. [_Exit_ Jaq. + + _Soph._ When is the day man? + Come, come, you'll steal a marriage. + + _Mor._ Nay, believe me: + But when her Father pleases, I am ready, + And all my friends shall know it. + + _Tra._ Why not now? + One charge had serv'd for both. + + _Mor._ There's reason in't. + + _Soph._ Call'd _Rowland_-- + + _Mor._ Will ye walk? + They'll think we are lost: Come Gentlemen. + + _Tra._ You have wip'd him now. + + _Soph._ So will he never the wench, I hope. + + _Tra._ I wish it. [_Exeunt._ + + + _Scaena Secunda._ + + _Enter_ Rowland _and_ Livia. + + _Row._ Now _Livia_, if you'll go away to night, + If your affections be not made of words. + + _Liv._ I love you, and you know how dearly _Rowland_, + Is there none near us? my affections ever + Have been your servants; with what superstition + I have ever Sainted you-- + + _Row._ Why then take this way. + + _Liv._ 'Twill be a childish, and a less prosperous course, + Than his that knows not care: why should we do, + Our honest and our hearty love such wrong, + To over-run our fortunes? + + _Row._ Then you flatter. + + _Liv._ Alas, you know I cannot. + + _Ro[w]._ What hope's left else + But flying to enjoy ye? + + _Liv._ None so far, + For let it be admitted, we have time, + And all things now in other expectation, + My father's bent against us; what but ruine, + Can such a by-way bring us? if your fears + Would let you look with my eyes, I would shew you, + And certain, how our staying here would win us + A course, though somewhat longer, yet far surer. + + _Row._ And then _Moroso_ h'as ye. + + _Liv._ No such matter + For hold this certain, begging, stealing, whoring, + Selling (which is a sin unpardonable) + Of counterfeit Cods, or musty English _Croacus_; + Switches, or Stones for th' tooth-ache sooner finds me, + Than that drawn Fox _Moroso_. + + _Row._ But his money, + If wealth may win you-- + + _Liv._ If a Hog may be + High Priest among the _Jews_? his money _Rowland_? + Oh Love forgive me, what faith hast thou? + Why, can his money kiss me? + + _Row._ Yes. + + _Liv._ Behind, + Laid out upon a Petticoat: or graspe me + While I cry, Oh good thank you? o'my troth + Thou mak'st me merry with thy fear: or lie with me. + As you may do? alas, what fools you men are? + His mouldy money? half a dozen Riders, + That cannot sit, but stampt fast to their Saddles? + No _Rowland_, no man shall make use of me; + My beauty was born free, and free I'll give it + To him that loves, not buys me. You yet doubt me. + + _Row._ I cannot say I doubt ye. + + _Liv._ Goe thy ways, + Thou art the prettiest puling piece of passion: + Y'faith I will not fail thee. + + _Row._ I had rather-- + + _Liv._ Prethee believe me, if I do not carry it, + For both our goods-- + + _Row._ But-- + + _Liv._ What but? + + _Row._ I would tell you. + + _Liv._ I know all you can tell me; all's but this, + You would have me, and lie with me; is't not so? + + _Row._ Yes. + + _Liv._ Why you shall; will that content you? Goe. + + _Row._ I am very loth to goe. + + _Enter_ Byancha _and_ Maria. + + _Liv._ Now o' my conscience + Thou art an honest fellow: here's my Sister; + Go, prethee go; this kiss, and credit me, + E'r I am three nights older, I am for thee: + You shall hear what I do. + Farewel. + + _Row._ Farewel. [_Exit_ Rowland. + + _Liv._ Alas poor fool, how it looks! + It would ev'n hang it self, should I but cross it. + For pure love to the matter I must hatch it. + + _Bya._ Nay, never look for merry hour, _Maria_, + If now you make it not; let not your blushes, + Your modesty, and tenderness of spirit, + Make you continual Anvile to his anger: + Believe me, since his first wife set him going, + Nothing can bind his rage: Take your own council, + You shall not say that I perswaded you. + But if you suffer him-- + + _Mar._ Stay, shall I do it? + + _Bya._ Have you a stomach to't? + + _Mar._ I never shew'd it. + + _Bya._ 'Twill shew the rarer and the stronger in you. + But do not say I urg'd you. + + _Mar._ I am perfect, + Like _Curtius_, to redeem my Countrey, I have + Leap'd into this gulph of marriage, and I'll do it. + Farewel all poorer thoughts, but spight and anger, + Till I have wrought a miracle. Now cosin, + I am no more the gentle, tame _Maria_; + Mistake me not; I have a new soul in me + Made of a North wind, nothing but tempest; + And like a tempest shall it make all ruin, + Till I have run my Will out. + + _Bya._ This is brave now, + If you continue it; but your own Will lead you. + + _Mar._ Adieu all tenderness, I dare continue; + Maids that are made of fears, and modest blushes, + View me, and love example. + + _Bya._ Here is your Sister. + + _Mar._ Here is the brave old mans love. + + _Bya._ That loves the young man. + + _Mar._ I and hold thee there wench: what a grief of heart is't? + When _Paphos_ Revels should rowze up old night, + To sweat against a Cork; to lie and tell + The clock o'th lungs, to rise sport starv'd? + + _Liv._ Dear Sister, + Where have you been, you talk thus? + + _Mar._ Why at Church, wench; + Where I am ti'd to talke thus: I am a wife now. + + _Liv._ It seems so, and a modest. + + _Mar._ You are an ass; + When thou art married once, thy modesty + Will never buy thee pins. + + _Liv._ 'Bless me. + + _Mar._ From what? + + _Bya._ From such a tame fool as our cosin _Livia_? + + _Liv._ You are not mad. + + _Mar._ Yes wench, and so must you be, + Or none of our acquaintance: mark me _Livia_; + Or indeed fit for our sex: 'Tis bed time. + Pardon me yellow _Hymen_, that I mean + Thine offerings to protract, or to keep fasting + My valiant Bridegroom. + + _Liv._ Whither will this woman? + + _Bya._ You may perceive her end. + + _Liv._ Or rather fear it. + + _Mar._ Dare you be partner in't? + + _Liv._ Leave it _Maria_, + I fear I have mark'd too much, for goodness leave it; + Divest you with obedient hands, to bed. + + _Mar._ To bed? no _Livia_, there are Comets hang + Prodigious over that yet; there's a fellow + Must yet before I know that heat (ne'r start wench) + Be made a man, for yet he is a monster; + Here must his head be _Livia_. + + _Liv._ Never hope it. + 'Tis as easie with a Sive to scoop the Ocean, as + To tame _Petruchio_. + + _Mar._ Stay: _Lucina_ hear me, + Never unlock the treasure of my womb + For humane fruit, to make it capable; + Nor never with thy secret hand make brief + A mothers labor to me; if I do + Give way unto my married Husband's Will, + Or be a Wife in any thing but hopes, + Till I have made him easie as a child, + And tame as fear, he shall not win a smile, + Or a pleas'd look, from this austerity, + Though it would pull another Joynture from him, + And make him ev'ry day another man; + And when I kiss him, till I have my Will, + May I be barren of delights, and know + Only what pleasures are in dreams, and guesses. + + _Liv._ A strange _Exordium_. + + _Bya._ All the several wrongs + Done by Imperious Husbands to their Wives + These thousand years and upwards, strengthen thee: + Thou hast a brave cause. + + _Mar._ And I'll do it bravely, + Or may I knit my life out ever after. + + _Liv._ In what part of the world got she this spirit? + Yet pray _Maria_, look before you truly, + Besides the obedience of a wife; + Which you will find a heavy imputation, + Which yet I cannot think your own, it shews + So distant from your sweetness. + + _Mar._ 'Tis I swear. + + _Liv._ Weigh but the person, and the hopes you have, + To work this desperate cure. + + _Mar._ A weaker subject + Would shame the end I aim at, disobedience. + You talk too tamely: By the faith I have + In mine own noble Will, that childish woman + That lives a prisoner to her Husbands pleasure, + Has lost her making, and becomes a beast, + Created for his use, not fellowship. + + _Liv._ His first wife said as much. + + _Mar._ She was a fool, + And took a scurvy course; let her be nam'd + 'Mongst those that wish for things, but dare not do'em: + I have a new dance for him. + + _Liv._ Are you of this faith? + + _Bya._ Yes truly, and will die in't. + + _Liv._ Why then let's all wear breeches. + + _Mar._ Now thou com'st near the nature of a woman; + Hang these tame hearted Eyasses, that no sooner + See the Lure out, and hear their Husbands hollow, + But cry like Kites upon 'em: The free Haggard + (Which is that woman, that hath wing, and knows it, + Spirit and plume) will make an hundred checks, + To shew her freedom, sail in ev'ry air, + And look out ev'ry pleasure; not regarding + Lure, nor quarry, till her pitch command + What she desires, making her foundred keeper + Be glad to fling out trains, and golden ones, + To take her down again. + + _Liv._ You are learned, Sister; + Yet I say still take heed. + + _Mar._ A witty saying; + I'll tell thee _Livia_, had this fellow tired + As many wives as horses under him, + With spurring of their patience; had he got + A Patent, with an Office to reclaim us, + Confirm'd by Parliament; had he all the malice + And subtilty of Devils, or of us, + Or any thing that's worse than both. + + _Liv._ Hey, hey boys, this is excellent. + + _Mar._ Or could he + Cast his wives new again, like Bels, to make 'em + Sound to his Will; or had the fearful name + Of the first breaker of wild women: yet, + Yet would I undertake this man, thus single, + And, spight of all the freedom he has reach'd to, + Turn him and bend him as I list, and mold him + Into a babe again; that aged women, + W[a]nting both teeth and spleen, may Master him. + + _Bya._ Thou wilt be chronicl'd. + + _Mar._ That's all I aim at. + + _Liv._ I must confess, I do with all my heart + Hate an imperious Husband, and in time + Might be so wrought upon. + + _Bya._ To make him cuckold? + + _Mar._ If he deserve it. + + _Liv._ Then I'll leave ye Ladies. + + _Bya._ Thou hast not so much noble anger in thee. + + _Mar._ Go sleep, go sleep, what we intend to do, + Lies not for such starv'd souls, as thou hast _Livia_. + + _Liv._ Good night: the Bridegroom will be with you presently. + + _Mar._ That's more than you know. + + _Liv._ If ye work upon him, + As you have promised, ye may give example, + Which no doubt will be followed. + + _Mar._ So. + + _Bya._ Good night: we'll trouble you no further. + + _Mar._ If you intend no good, pray do no harm. + + _Liv._ None, but pray for you. [_Exit_ Livia. + + _Bya._ Cheer wench. + + _Mar._ Now _Byancha_, + Those wits we have, let's wind 'em to the height. + My rest is up wench, and I pull for that + Will make me ever famous. They that lay + Foundations, are half-builders, all men say. + + _Enter_ Jaques. + + _Jaq._ My Master forsooth. + + _Mar._ Oh how does thy Master? prethee commend me to him. + + _Jaq._ How's this? my Master stays forsooth. + + _Mar._ Why let him stay, who hinders him forsooth? + + _Jaq._ The Revel's ended now, + To visit you. + + _Mar._ I am not sick. + + _Jaq._ I mean to see his chamber forsooth. + + _Mar._ Am I his Groom? where lay he last night forsooth? + + _Ja[q]._ In the low matted Parlour. + + _Mar._ There lies his way by the long Gallery. + + _Jaq._ I mean your chamber: y'are very merry Mistriss. + + _Mar._ 'Tis a good sign I am sound hearted _Jaques_: + But if you'll know where I lie, follow me; + And what thou seest, deliver to thy Master. + + _Bya._ Do gentle _Jaques_. [_Exeunt._ + + _Ja._ Ha, is the wind in that door? + By'r Lady we shall have foul weather then: + I do not like the shuffling of these women, + They are mad beasts, when they knock their heads together: + I have observ'd them all this day; their whispers, + One in anothers ear, their signs and pinches, + And breaking often into violent laughters: + As if the end they purpos'd were their own. + Call you this weddings? Sure this is a knavery, + A very trick, and dainty knavery, + Marvellous finely carried, that's the comfort: + What would these women do in ways of honor? + That are such Masters this way? Well, my Sir + Has been as good at finding out these toys, + As any living; if he lose it now, + At his own peril be it. I must follow. [_Exit._ + + + _Scaena Tertia._ + + _Enter Servants with Lights_, Petruchio, Petronius, Moroso, + Tranio, _and_ Sophocles. + + _Pet._ You that are married, Gentlemen; have at ye + For a round wager now. + + _Soph._ Of this nights Stage? + + _Petru._ Yes. + + _Soph._ I am your first man, a pair of Gloves of twenty shillings. + + _Petru._ Done: who takes me up next? I am for all bets. + + _Mor._ Well lusty _Lawrence_, were but my night now, + Old as I am, I would make you clap on Spurs, + But I would reach you, and bring you to your trot too: + I would Gallants. + + _Petru._ Well said good Will; but where's the staff boy, ha? + Old father Time, your hour-glass is empty. + + _Tra._ A good tough train would break thee all to pieces; + Thou hast not breath enough to say thy prayers. + + _Petron._ See how these boys despise us. Will you to bed son? + This pride will have a fall. + + _Petru._ Upon your daughter; + But I shall rise again, if there be truth + In Eggs, and butter'd Parsnips. + + _Petro._ Will you to bed son, and leave talking? + To morrow morning we shall have you look, + For all your great words, like _St. George_ at _Kingston_, + Running a foot-back from the furious Dragon, + That with her angry tail belabours him + For being lazie. + + _Tra._ His courage quench'd, and so far quench'd-- + + _Petru._ 'Tis well Sir. + What then? + + _Soph._ Fly, fly, quoth then the fearful dwarfe; + Here is no place for living man. + + _Petru._ Well my masters, if I do sink under my business, as I find + 'tis very possible, I am not the first that has miscarried; So that's + my comfort, what may be done without impeach or waste, I can and will + do. + + _Enter_ Jaques. + + How now, is my fair Bride a bed? + + _Jaq._ No truly, Sir. + + _Petron._ Not a bed yet? body o' me: we'll up and rifle her: here's a + coil with a Maiden-head, 'tis not intail'd, is it? + + _Petru._ If it be, I'll try all the Law i'th' Land, but I'll cut it + off: let's up, let's up, come. + + _Jaq._ That you cannot neither. + + _Petru._ Why? + + _Jaq._ Unless you'll drop through the Chimney like a Daw, or force a + breach i'th' windows: you may untile the house, 'tis possible. + + _Petru._ What dost thou mean? + + _Jaq._ A moral, Sir, the Ballad will express it: + _The wind and the rain, has turned you back again, + And you cannot be lodged there._ The truth is, all the doors + Are baracadoed; not a Cathole, but holds a murd'rer in't. + She's victuall'd for this month. + + _Petru._ Art not thou drunk? + + _Soph._ He's drunk, he's drunk; come, come, let's up. + + _Jaq._ Yes, yes, I am drunk: ye may go up, ye may + Gentlemen, but take heed to your heads: I say no more. + + _Soph._ I'll try that. [_Exit_ Soph. + + _Petron._ How dost thou say? the door fast lock'd fellow? + + _Jaq._ Yes truly Sir, 'tis lock'd, and guarded too; and two as + desperate tongues planted behind it, as e'er yet batter'd: they stand + upon their honors, and will not give up without strange composition, + I'll assure you; marching away with their Pieces cockt, and Bullets + in their mouths, will not satisfie them. + + _Petru._ How's this? how's this? they are-- + Is there another with her? + + _Jaq._ Yes marry is there, and an Enginier. + + _Mor._ Who's that for Heavens sake? + + _Jaq._ Colonel _Byancha_, she commands the works: _Spinola_'s but a + Ditcher to her, there's a half-moon: I am but a poor man, but if + you'll give me leave, I'll venture a years wages, draw all your force + before it, and mount your ablest Piece of battery, you shall not enter + it these three nights yet. + + _Enter_ Sophocles. + + _Petru._ I should laugh at that good _Jaques_. + + _Soph._ Beat back again, she's fortified for ever. + + _Jaq._ Am I drunk now, Sir? + + _Soph._ He that dares most, go up now, and be cool'd. + I have scap'd a pretty scowring. + + _Petru._ What are they mad? have we another _Bedlam_? + They do not talke I hope? + + _Soph._ Oh terribly, extreamly fearful, the noise at _London-bridge_ + is nothing near her. + + _Petru._ How got she tongue? + + _Soph._ As you got tail, she was born to't. + + _Petru._ Lock'd out a doors, and on my wedding-night? + Nay, and I suffer this, I may goe graze: + Come Gentlemen, I'll batter; are these virtues? + + _Soph._ Do, and be beaten off with shame, as I was: I went up, came + to th' door, knock'd, no body answer'd; knock'd louder, yet heard + nothing: would have broke in by force; when suddainly a Water-work + flew from the window with such violence, that had I not duck'd quickly + like a Fryer, _caetera quis nescit_? The chamber's nothing but a mere + _Ostend_, in every window Pewter Cannons mounted, you'll quickly find + with what they are charg'd, Sir. + + _Petru._ Why then _tantara_ for us. + + _Soph._ And all the lower Works lin'd sure with small shot, long + tongues with Fire-locks, that at twelve score blank hit to the heart: + now and ye dare go up. + + _Enter_ Maria _and_ Byanca _above._ + + _Mar._ The window opens, beat a parley first; + I am so much amaz'd, my very hair stands. + + _Petron._ Why how now Daughter: what intrench'd? + + _Mar._ A little guarded for my safety, Sir. + + _Petru._ For your safety Sweet-heart? why who offends you? + I come not to use violence. + + _Mar._ I think you cannot, Sir, I am better fortified. + + _Petru._ I know your end, + You would fain reprieve your Maiden-head + A night, or two. + + _Mar._ Yes, or ten, or twenty, or say an hundred; + Or indeed, till I list lie with you. + + _Soph._ That's a shrewd saying; from this present hour, + I never will believe a silent woman. + When they break out they are bonfires. + + _Petro._ Till you list lie with him? why who are you Madam? + + _Bya._That trim Gentlemans wife, Sir. + + _Petru._ Cry you mercy, do you command too? + + _Mar._ Yes marry does she, and in chief. + + _Bya._ I do command, and you shall go without: + (I mean your wife, for this night) + + _Mar._ And for the next too wench, and so as'[t follows] + + _Petro._ Thou wilt not, wilt'a? + + _Mar._ Yes indeed dear father, + And till he seal to what I shall set down, + For any thing I know for ever. + + _Soph._ Indeed these are Bug[s]-words. + + _Tra._ You hear Sir, she can talk, God be thanked. + + _Petru._ I would I heard it not, Sir. + + _Soph._ I find that all the pity bestow'd upon this woman, + Makes but an Anagram of an ill wife, + For she was never virtuous. + + _Petru._ You'll let me in I hope, for all this jesting. + + _Mar._ Hope still, Sir. + + _Petron._ You will come down I am sure. + + _Mar._ I am sure I will not. + + _Petron._ I'll fetch you then. + + _Bya._ The power of the whole County cannot, Sir, + Unless we please to yield, which yet I think + We shall not; charge when you please, you shall + Hear quickly from us. + + _Mor._ Bless me from a chicken of thy hatching, + Is this wiving? + + _Petru._ Prethee _Maria_ tell me what's the reason, + And doe it freely, you deal thus strangely with me? + You were not forc'd to marry, your consent + Went equally with mine, if not before it: + I hope you do not doubt I want that mettle + A man should have to keep a woman waking; + I would be sorry to be such a Saint yet: + My person, as it is not excellent, + So 'tis not old, nor lame, nor weak with Physick, + But well enough to please an honest woman, + That keeps her house, and loves her Husband. + + _Mar._ 'Tis so. + + _Petru._ My means and my conditions are no shamers + Of him that owes 'em, all the world knows that, + And my friends no reliers on my fortunes. + + _Mar._ All this I believe, and none of all these parcels + I dare [ex]cept against; nay more, so far + I am from making these the ends I aim at, + These idle outward things, these womens fears, + That were I yet unmarried, free to choose + Through all the Tribes of man, I'll take _Petruchio_ + In's shirt, with one ten Groats to pay the Priest, + Before the best man living, or the ablest + That e'er leap'd out of _Lancashire_, and they are right ones. + + _Petron._ Why do you play the fool then, and stand prating + Out of the window like a broken Miller! + + _Petru._ If you will have me credit you _Maria_, + Come down, and let your love confirm it. + + _Mar._ Stay there, Sir, that bargain's yet to make. + + _Bya._ Play sure wench, the Packs in thine own hand. + + _Soph._ Let me die lowsie, if these two wenches + Be not brewing knavery to stock a Kingdom. + + _Petru._ Why this is a Riddle: + I love you, and I love you not. + + _Mar._ It is so: + And till your own experience do untie it, + This distance I must keep. + + _Petru._ If you talk more, + I am angry, very angry. + + _Mar._ I am glad on't, and I will talk. + + _Petru._ Prethee peace, + Let me not think thou art mad. I tell thee woman, + If thou goest forward, I am still _Petruchio_. + + _Mar._ And I am worse, a woman that can fear + Neither _Petruchio Furius_, nor his fame, + Nor any thing that tends to our allegeance; + There's a short method for you, now you know me. + + _Petru._ If you can carry't so, 'tis very well. + + _Bya._ No, you shall carry it, Sir. + + _Petru._ Peace gentle Low-bel. + + _Petron._ Use no more words, but come down instantly, + I charge thee by the duty of a child. + + _Petru._ Prethee come _Maria_, I forgive all. + + _Mar._ Stay there; That duty, that you charge me by + (If you consider truly what you say) + Is now another man's, you gave't away + I' th' Church, if you remember, to my Husband: + So all you can exact now, is no more + But only a due reverence to your person, + Which thus I pay: Your blessing, and I am gone + To bed for this night. + + _Petron._ This is monstrous: + That blessing that _St. Dunstan_ gave the Devil, + If I were neer thee, I would give thee-- + Pull thee down by th' nose. + + _By._ Saints should not rave, Sir; + A little Rubarb now were excellent. + + _Petru._ Then by that duty you owe to me _Maria_, + Open the door, and be obedient: I am quiet yet. + + _Mar._ I do confess that duty, make your best on't. + + _Petru._ Why give me leave, I will. + + _Bya._ Sir, there's no learning + An old stiff Jade to trot, you know the moral. + + _Mar._ Yet as I take it, Sir, I owe no more + Than you owe back again. + + _Petru._ You will not Article? + All I owe, presently, let me but up, I'll pay. + + _Mar._ Y'are too hot, and such prove Jades at length; + You do confess a duty, or respect to me from you again: + That's very near, or full the same with mine? + + _Petru._ Yes. + + _Mar._ Then by that duty, or respect, or what + You please to have it, go to bed and leave me, + And trouble me no longer with your fooling; + For know, I am not for you. + + _Petru._ Well, what remedy? + + _Petron._ A fine smart Cudgel. Oh that I were near thee. + + _Bya._ If you had teeth now, what a case were we in! + + _M[o]r._ These are the most authentique Rebels, next + _Tyrone_, I ever read of. + + _Mar._ A week hence, or a fortnight, as you bear you, + And as I find my will observ'd, I may, + With intercession of some friends, be brought + May be to kiss you; and so quarterly + To pay a little Rent by composition, + You understand me? + + _Soph._ Thou Boy thou. + + _Petru._ Well there are more Maids than _Maudlin_, that's my comfort. + + _Mar._ Yes, and more men than _Michael_. + + _Petru._ I must not to bed with this stomach, and no meat Lady. + + _Mar._ Feed where you will, so it be sound and wholsome, + Else live at Livery, for I'll none with you. + + _By._ You had best back one of the Dairy Maids, they'll carry. + But take heed to your girths, you'll get a bruise else. + + _Petru._ Now if thou wouldst come down and tender me: + All the delights due to a marriage-bed, + Study such kisses as would melt a man, + And turn thy self into a thousand Figures, + To add new flames unto me, I would stand + Thus heavy, thus regardless, thus despising + Thee, and thy best allurings: all the beauty + That's laid upon your bodies, mark me well, + For without doubt your mind's are miserable, + You have no Masques for them: all this rare beauty, + Lay but the Painter and the Silk-worm by, + The Doctor with his Dyets, and the Tailor, + And you appear like flea'd Cats, not so handsome. + + _Mar._ And we appear like her that sent us hither, + That only excellent and beauteous nature; + Truly our selves for men to wonder at, + But too divine to handle; we are Gold, + In our own natures pure; but when we suffer + The husbands stamp upon us, then allays, + And base ones of you men are mingled with us, + And make us blush like Copper. + + _Petru._ Then, and never + Till then are women to be spoken of, + For till that time you have no souls I take it: + Good night: come Gentlemen; I'll fast for this night, + But by this hand, well; I shall come up yet. + + _Mar._ No. + + _Petru._ There will I watch thee like a wither'd Jury, + Thou shalt neither have meat, Fire, nor Candle, + Nor any thing that's easie: do you rebel so soon? + Yet take mercy. + + _By._ Put up your Pipes: to bed Sir, I'll assure you + A months siege will not shake us. + + _Moro._ Well said Colonel. + + _Mar._ To bed, to bed _Petruchio_: good night Gentlemen, + You'll make my Father sick with sitting up: + Here you shall find us any time these ten days, + Unless we may march off with our contentment. + + _Petru._ I'll hang first. + + _Mar._ And I'll quarter if I do not, + I'll make you know, and fear a wife _Petruchio_, + There my cause lies. + You have been famous for a woman-tamer, + And bear the fear'd-name of a brave Wife-breaker: + A woman now shall take those honors off, + And tame you; nay, never look so bigg, she shall, believe me, + And I am she: what think ye; good night to all, + Ye shall find Centinels. + + _By._ If ye dare sally. [_Exeunt above._ + + _Petro._ The devil's in 'em, ev'n the very devil, the downright devil. + + _Petru._ I'll devil 'em: by these ten bones I will: I'll bring it to + the old Proverb, no sport no pie:----taken down i'th' top of all my + speed; this is fine dancing: Gentlemen, stick to me. You see our + Freehold's touch'd, and by this light, we will beleagure 'em, and + either starve 'em out, or make 'em recreant. + + _Petro._ I'll see all passages stopt, but those about 'em: + If the good women of the Town dare succor 'em, + We shall have wars indeed. + + _Soph._ I'll stand perdue upon 'em. + + _Mor._ My Regiment shall lie before. + + _Jaq._ I think so, 'tis grown too old to stand. + + _Petru._ Let's in, and each provide his tackle, + We'll fire 'em out, or make 'em take their pardons: + Hear what I say on their bare knees-- + Am I _Petruchio_, fear'd, and spoken of, + And on my wedding night am I thus jaded? [_Exeunt omn._ + + + _Scaena Quarta._ + + _Enter_ Rowland _and_ Pedro _at several doors._ + + _Row._ Now _Pedro_? + + _Ped._ Very busie Master _Rowland_. + + _Row._ What haste man? + + _Ped._ I beseech you pardon me, + I am not mine own man. + + _Row._ Thou art not mad? + + _Ped._ No; but believe me, as hasty-- + + _Row._ The cause good _Pedro_? + + _Ped._ There be a thousand Sir; you are not married? + + _Row._ Not yet. + + _Ped._ Keep your self quiet then. + + _Row._ Why? + + _Ped._ You'll find a Fiddle + That never will be tun'd else: from all women-- [_Exit._ + + _Row._ What ails the fellow tro? _Jaques_? + + _Enter_ Jaques. + + _Jaq._ Your friend Sir. + But very full of business. + + _Row._ Nothing but business? + Prethee the reason, is there any dying? + + _Jaq._ I would there were Sir. + + _Row._ But thy business? + + _Jaq._ I'll tell you in a word, I am sent to lay + An Imposition upon Souse and Puddings, + Pasties, and penny Custards, that the women + May not relieve yo[n] Rebels: Fare ye well, Sir. + + _Row._ How does my Mistriss? + + _Jaq._ Like a resty jade. + She's spoil'd for riding. [_Exit_ Jaques. + + _Row._ What a devil ail they? + + _Enter_ Sophocles. + + Custards, and penny Pasties, Fools and Fiddles, + What's this to th' purpose? Oh well met. + + _Soph._ Now _Rowland_. + I cannot stay to talk long. + + _Row._ What's the matter? + Here's stirring, but to what end? whither goe you? + + _Soph._ To view the Works. + + _Row._ What Works? + + _Soph._ The womens Trenches. + + _Row._ Trenches? are such to see? + + _Soph._ I do not jest, Sir. + + _Row._ I cannot understand you. + + _Soph._ Do not you hear + In what a state of quarrel the new Bride + Stands with her Husband? + + _Row._ Let him stand with her, and there's an end. + + _Soph._ It should be, but by'r Lady + She holds him out at Pikes end, and defies him, + And now is fortifi'd, such a Regiment of Rutters + Never defied men braver: I am sent + To view their preparation. + + _Row._ This is news + Stranger than Arms in the air: you saw not + My gentle Mistriss? + + _Soph._ Yes, and meditating + Upon some secret business, when she had found it + She leap'd for joy, and laugh'd, and straight retir'd + To shun _Moroso_. + + _Row._ This may be for me. + + _Soph._ Will you along? + + _Row._ No. + + _Soph._ Farewel. [_Exit_ Sophocles. + + _Row._ Farewel, Sir. + What should her musing mean, and what her joy in't, + If not for my advantage? stay ye; may not + + _Enter_ Livia _at one door, and_ Moroso _at another, hearkning._ + + That bob-tail jade _Moroso_, with his Gold, + His gew-gaudes, and the hope she has to send him + Quickly to dust, excite this? here she comes, + And yonder walks the Stallion to discover: + Yet I'll salute her: save you beauteous Mistriss. + + _Liv._ The Fox is kennell'd for me: save you Sir. + + _Row._ Why do you look so strange? + + _Liv._ I use to look Sir + Without examination. + + _Mar._ Twenty Spur-Royals for that word. + + _Row._ Belike then + The object discontents you? + + _Liv._ Yes it does. + + _Row._ Is't come to this? you know me, do you not? + + _Liv._ Yes, as I may know many by repentance. + + _Row._ Why do you break your faith? + + _Liv._ I'll tell you that too, + You are under age, and no band holds upon you. + + _Mor._ Excellent wench. + + _Liv._ Sue out your understanding, + And get more hair to cover your bare knuckle; + (For boys were made for nothing, but dry kisses) + And if you can, more manners. + + _Mor._ Better still. + + _Liv._ And then if I want _Spanish_ Gloves, or Stockings, + A ten pound Wastecoat, or a Nag to hunt on, + It may be I shall grace you to accept 'em. + + _Row._ Farewel, and when I credit women more, + May I to _Smithfield_, and there buy a Jade, + (And know him to be so) that breaks my neck. + + _Liv._ Because I have known you, I'll be thus kind to you; + Farewel, and be a man, and I'll provide you, + Because I see y'are desperate, some staid Chamber-maid + That may relieve your youth with wholsome doctrine. + + _Mor._ She's mine from all the world: ha wench? + + _Liv._ Ha Chicken?-- [_gives him a box o' th' ear, and Ex._ + + _Mor._ How's this? I do not love these favors: save you. + + _Row._ The devil take thee-- [_wrings him by th' nose._ + + _Mor._ Oh! + + _Row._ There's a Love-token for you: thank me now. + + _Mor._ I'll think on some of ye, and if I live, + My nose alone shall not be plaid withal. [_Exit._ + + + + + _Actus Secundus. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter_ Petronius, _and_ Moroso. + + _Petro._ A Box o'th' ear do you say? + + _Mor._ Yes sure, a sound one, + Beside my nose blown to my hand; if _Cupid_ + Shoot Arrows of that weight, I'll swear devoutly, + H'as sued his Livery, and is no more a boy. + + _Petro._ You gave her some ill language? + + _Mor._ Not a word. + + _Petro._ Or might be you were fumbling? + + _Mor._ Would I had Sir. + I had been a forehand then; but to be baffl'd, + And have no feeling of the cause-- + + _Petro._ Be patient, + I have a medicine clapt to her back will cure her. + + _Mor._ No sure it must be afore, Sir. + + _Petro._ O' my conscience, + When I got these two wenches (who till now + Ne'r shew'd their riding) I was drunk with Bastard, + Whose nature is to form things like it self + Heady, and monstrous: did she slight him too? + + _Mor._ That's all my comfort: a meer Hobby-horse + She made child _Rowland_: s'foot she would not know him, + Not give him a free look, not reckon him + Among her thoughts, which I held more than wonder, + I having seen her within's three days kiss him + With such an appetite as though she would eat him. + + _Petro._ There is some trick in this: how did he take it? + + _Mor._ Ready to cry; he ran away. + + _Petro._ I fear her. + And yet I tell you, ever to my anger, + She is as tame as innocency; it may be + This blow was but a favour. + + _Mor._ I'll be sworn 'twas well tied on then. + + _Petro._ Goe too, pray forget it, + I have bespoke a Priest: and within's two hours + I'll have ye married; will that please you? + + _Mor._ Yes. + + _Petro._ I'll see it done my self, and give the Lady + Such a sound exhortation for this knavery + I'll warrant you, shall make her smell this month on't. + + _Mor._ Nay good Sir be not violent. + + _Petro._ Neither-- + + _Mor._ It may be + Out of her earnest love there grew a longing + (As you know women have such toys) in kindness, + To give me a box o'th' ear, or so. + + _Petro._ It may be. + + _Mor._ I reckon for the best still: this night then + I shall enjoy her. + + _Petro._ You shall handsel her. + + _Mor._ Old as I am, I'll give her one blow for't + Shall make her groan this twelve-month. + + _Petro._ Where's your Joynture? + + _Mor._ I have a Joynture for her. + + _Petro._ Have your Council perus'd it yet? + + _Mor._ No Council but the night, and your sweet daughter, + Shall e'r peruse that joynture. + + _Petro._ Very well, Sir. + + _Moro._ I'll no demurrers on't, nor no rejoynders. + The other's ready seal'd. + + _Petro._ Come then let's comfort + My Son _Petruchio_, he's like little Children + That loose their baubles, crying ripe. + + _Mor._ Pray tell me, + Is this stern woman still upon the flaunt + Of bold defiance? + + _Petro._ Still, and still she shall be, + Till she be starv'd out, you shall see such justice, + That women shall be glad after this tempest, + To tie their husbands shooes, and walk their horses. + + _Mor._ That were a merry world: do you hear the rumor? + They say the women are in insurrection, + And mean to make a-- + + _Petro._ They'll sooner + Draw upon walls as we do: Let 'em, let 'em, + We'll ship 'em out in Cuck-stools, there they'll sail + As brave _Columbus_ did, till they discover + The happy Islands of obedience. + We stay too long, Come. + + _Mor._ Now _St. George_ be with us. [_Exeunt._ + + + _Scaena Secunda._ + + _Enter_ Livia _alone._ + + _Liv._ Now if I can but get in handsomely, + Father I shall deceive you; and this night + For all your private plotting, I'll no wedlock; + I have shifted sail, and find my Sisters safety + A sure retirement; pray to heaven that _Rowland_ + Do not believe too far, what I said to him, + For yon old Foxcase forc'd me, that's my fear. + Stay, let me see, this quarter fierce _Petruchio_ + Keeps with his Myrmidons, I must be suddain, + If he seize on me, I can look for nothing + But Marshal-Law; to this place have I scap'd him; + Above there. + + _Enter_ Maria _and_ Byancha _above._ + + _Mar._ _Cheval' a._ + + _Liv._ A friend. + + _By._ Who are you? + + _Liv._ Look out and know. + + _Mar._ Alas poor wench, who sent thee? + What weak fool made thy tongue his Orator? + I know you come to parly. + + _Liv._ Y'are deceiv'd, + Urg'd by the goodness of your cause, I come + To do as you do. + + _Mar._ Y'are too weak, too foolish, + To cheat us with your smoothness: do not we know + Thou hast been kept up tame? + + _Liv._ Believe me. + + _Mar._ No, prethee good _Livia_ + Utter thy Eloquence somewhere else. + + _By._ Good Cosin + Put up your Pipes; we are not for your palate + Alas we know who sent you. + + _Liv._ O' my word-- + + _By._ Stay there; you must not think your word, + Or by your Maidenhead, or such Sunday oaths, + Sworn after Even-Song, can inveigle us + To lose our hand-fast: did their wisdoms think + That sent you hither, we would be so foolish, + To entertain our gentle Sister _Sinon_, + And give her credit, while the wooden Jade + _Petruchio_ stole upon us: no good Sister, + Go home, and tell the merry _Greeks_ that sent you, + _Ilium_ shall burn, and I, as did _AEneas_, + Will on my back, spite of the _Myrmidons_, + Carry this warlike Lady, and through Seas + Unknown, and unbeliev'd, seek out a Land, + Where like a race of noble _Amazons_ + We'll root our se[l]ves, and to our endless glory + Live, and despise base men. + + _Liv._ I'll second ye. + + _By._ How long have you been thus? + + _Liv._ That's all one, Cosin, + I stand for freedom now. + + _By._ Take heed of lying; + For by this light, if we do credit you, + And find you tripping, his infliction + That kill'd the Prince of _Orange_, will be sport + To what we purpose. + + _Liv._ Let me feel the heaviest. + + _Mar._ Swear by thy Sweet-heart _Rowland_ (for by your maiden-head, + I fear 'twill be too late to swear) you mean + Nothing but fair and safe, and honourable + To us, and to your self. + + _Liv._ I swear. + + _By._ Stay yet, + Swear as you hate _Moroso_, that's the surest, + And as you have a certain fear to find him + Worse than a poor dry'd _Jack_, full of more aches + Than _Autumn_ has; more knavery, and usury, + And foolery, and brokery, than dogs-ditch: + As you do constantly believe he's nothing + But an old empty bag with a grey beard, + And that Beard such a bob-tail, that it looks + Worse than a Mares tail eaten off with Fillies: + As you acknowledge that young handsome wench + That lies by such a _Bilboa_ blade that bends + With ev'ry pass he makes, to th' hilts, [most] miserable, + A dry Nurse to his Coughs, a fewterer + To such a nasty fellow, a robb'd thing + Of all delights youth looks for: and to end, + One cast away on course beef, born to brush + That everlasting Cassock that has worn + As many servants out, as the Northeast passage + Has consum'd Sailors: if you swear this, and truly + Without the reservation of a gown + Or any meritorious Petticoat, + 'Tis like we shall believe you. + + _Liv._ I do swear it. + + _Mar._ Stay yet a little; came this wholsome motion + (Deal truly Sister) from your own opinion, + Or some suggestion of the Foe? + + _Liv._ Nev'r fear me, + For by that little faith I have in Husbands, + And the great zeal I bear your cause, I come + Full of that liberty you stand for, Sister. + + _Mar._ If we believe, and you prove recreant, _Livia_, + Think what a maim you give the noble Cause + We now stand up for: Think what women shall, + An hundred years hence, speak thee, when examples + Are look'd for, and so great ones, whose relations, + Spoke as we do 'em wench, shall make new customs. + + _By._ If you be false, repent, go home, and pray, + And to the serious women of the City + Confess your self; bring not a sin so hainous + To load thy soul to this place: mark me _Livia_, + If thou be'st double, and betray'st our honors, + And we fail in our purpose: get thee where + There is no women living, nor no hope + There ever shall be. + + _Mar._ If a Mothers daughter, + That ever heard the name of stubborn husband + Find thee, and know thy sin. + + _By._ Nay, if old age, + One that has worn away the name of woman, + And no more left to know her by, but railing, + No teeth, nor eyes, nor legs, but wooden ones + Come but i'th' wind-ward of thee, for sure she'll smell thee; + Thou'lt be so rank, she'll ride thee like a night-Mare, + And say her Prayers back-ward to undo thee: + She'll curse thy meat and drink, and when thou marriest, + Clap a sound spell for ever on thy pleasures. + + _Mar._ Children of five year old, like little Fairies, + Will pinch thee into motley: all that ever + Shall live, and hear of thee, I mean all women, + Will (like so many furies) shake their keys; + And toss their flaming distaffs o'r their heads, + Crying revenge: take heed, 'tis hideous: + Oh 'tis a fearful office, if thou hadst + (Though thou be'st perfect now) when thou cam'st hither, + A false imagination, get thee gone, + And as my learned Cosin said, repent, + This place is sought by soundness. + + _Liv._ So I seek it, + Or let me be a most despis'd example. + + _Mar._ I do believe thee, be thou worthy of it. + You come not empty? + + _Liv._ No, here's Cakes, and cold meat, + And Tripe of proof: behold, here's Wine and Beer, + Be suddain, I shall be surpriz'd else. + + _Mar._ Meet at the low parlour door, there lies a close way: + What fond obedience you have living in you, + Or duty to a man before you enter, + Fling it away, 'twill but defile our Off'rings. + + _By._ Be wary as you come. + + _Liv._ I warrant ye. [_Exeunt._ + + + _Scaena Tertia._ + + _Enter three Maids._ + + _1 Mai._ How goes your business Girls? + + _2._ A foot, and fair. + + _3._ If fortune favour us: away to your strength, + The Countrey Forces are arriv'd, be gone, + We are discover'd else. + + _1._ Arm, and be valiant. + + _2._ Think of our cause. + + _3._ Our Justice. + + _1._ 'Tis sufficient. [_Exeunt._ + + + _Scaena Quarta._ + + _Enter_ Rowland _and_ Tranio _at several doors._ + + _Tra._ Now _Rowland_? + + _Row._ How doe you? + + _Tra._ How dost thou man? + Thou look'st ill: + + _[R]ow._ Yes, pray can you tell me _Tranio_, + Who knew the devil first? + + _Tra._ A woman. + + _Row._ So. Were they not well acquainted? + + _Tra._ May be so, + For they had certain Dialogues together. + + _Row._ He sold her fruit, I take it? + + _Tra._ Yes, and Cheese + That choak'd all mankind after. + + _Row._ Canst thou tell me + Whether that woman ever had a faith + After she had eaten? + + _Tra._ That's a School-question + + _Row._ No, + 'Tis no question, for believe me _Tranio_, + That cold fruit after eating bread naught in her + But windy promises, and chollick vows + That broke out both ways. + [Thou] hast heard I am sure + Of _Esculapius_, a far famed Surgeon, + One that could set together quarter'd Traitors + And make 'em honest men. + + _Tra._ How dost thou _Rowland_? + + _Row._ Let him but take, (if [h]e dare do a cure + Shall get him fame indeed) a faithless woman, + There will be credit for him, that will speak him, + A broken woman _Tranio_, a base woman, + And if he can cure such a rack of honor + Let him come here, and practice. + + _Tra._ Now for honors sake, + Why what ail'st thou _Rowland_? + + _Row._ I am ridden _Tranio_. + And spur-gall'd to the life of patience + (Heaven keep my wits together) by a thing + Our worst thoughts are too noble for, a woman. + + _Tra._ Your Mistriss has a little frown'd it may be? + + _Row._ She was my Mistriss. + + _Tra._ Is she not? + + _R[o]w._ No _Tranio_. + She has done me such disgrace, so spitefully + So like a woman bent to my undoing, + That henceforth a good horse shall be my Mistriss, + A good Sword, or a Book: and if you see her, + Tell her I [doe] beseech you, even for love sake.-- + + _Tra._ I will _Rowland_. + + _Row._ She may sooner + Count the good I have thought her, + Our old love and our friendship, + Shed one true tear, mean one hour constantly, + Be old and honest, married, and a maid, + Than make me see her more, or more believe her: + And now I have met a messenger, farewel Sir. [_Exit._ + + _Tra._ Alas poor _Rowland_, I will do it for thee: + This is that dog _Moroso_, but I hope + To see him cold i'th' mouth first, e'r he enjoy her: + I'll watch this young man, desperate thoughts may seize him, + And if my purse or council can, I'll ease him. [_Exit._ + + + _Scaena Quinta._ + + _Enter_ Petruchio, Petronius, Moroso, _and_ Sophocles. + + _Petru._ For look you Gentlemen, say that I grant her, + Out of my free and liberal love, a pardon, + Which you, and all men else know, she deserves not, + _(Teneatis amici)_ can all the world leave laughing? + + _Petro._ I think not. + + _Petru._ No by ---- they cannot; + For pray consider, have you ever read, + Or heard of, or can any man imagine. + So stiff a _Tom-boy_, of so set a malice, + And such a brazen resolution, + As this young Crab-tree? and then answer me, + And mark but this too friends, without a cause, + Not a foul word come cross her, not a fear, + She justly can take hold on, and do you think + I must sleep out my anger, and endure it, + Sow pillows to her ease, and lull her mischief? + Give me a Spindle first: no, no my Masters, + Were she as fair as _Nell-a-Greece_, and housewife, + As good as the wise Sailors wife, and young still, + Never above fifteen, and these tricks to it, + She should ride the wild Mare once a week, she should, + (Believe me friends she should) I would tabor her, + Till all the Legions that are crept into her, + Flew out with fire i'th' tails. + + _Soph._ Methinks you err now, + For to me seems, a little sufferance + Were a far surer cure. + + _Petru._ Yes, I can suffer, + Where I see promises of peace and amendment. + + _Mor._ Give her a few conditions. + + _Petru._ I'll be hanged first. + + _Petron._ Give her a Crab-tree Cudgel. + + _Petru._ So I will; + And after it a flock-bed for her bones. + And hard eggs, till they brace her like a Drum, + She shall be pamper'd with ---- + She shall not know a stool in ten months, Gentlemen. + + _Soph._ This must not be. + + _Enter_ Jaques. + + _Jaq._ Arm, arm, out with your weapons, + For all the women in the Kingdom's on ye; + + _Enter_ Pedro. + + They swarm like wasps, and nothing can destroy 'em, + But stopping of their hive, and smothering of 'em, + + _Ped._ Stand to your guard, Sir, all the devils extant + Are broke upon us like a cloud of thunder; + There are more women marching hitherward, + In rescue of my Mistriss, than e'er turn'd tail + At _Sturbridge_ Fair, and I believe, as fiery. + + _Jaq._ The forlorn hope's led by a Tanner's wife, + I know her by her Hide, a desperate woman: + She flead her Husband in her youth, and made + Raynes of his Hide to ride the parish. Take 'em all together, + They are a genealogy of Jennets, gotten + And born thus by the boisterous breath of Husbands; + They serve sure, a[n]d are swift to catch occasion, + (I mean their foes or Husbands) by the forelocks, + And there they hang like favours; cry they can + But more for Noble spight, than fear: and crying + Like the old Giants that were foes to heaven, + They heave ye stool on stool, and fling main Pot-lids + Like massie Rocks, dart Ladles, tossing Irons, + And Tongs like Thunderbolts, till overlaid, + They fall beneath the weight; yet still aspiring + At those Emperious [Codsheads] that would tame 'em. + There's ne'r a one of these, the worst and weakest, + (Chuse where you will,) but dare attempt the raising, + Against the soveraign peace of Puritans, + A _May_-pole and a Morris, maugre mainly + Their zeal, and Dudgeon-daggers: and yet more, + Dares plant a stand of batt'ring Ale against 'em, + And drink 'em out o'th' parish. + + _Soph._ Lo you fierce _Petruchio_, this comes of your impatience. + + _Ped._ There's one brought in the Bears against the Canons + Of the Town, made it good, and fought 'em. + + _Jaq._ Another to her everlasting fame, erected + Two Ale-houses of ease: the Quarter-Sessions + Running against her roundly; in which business + Two of the disanullers lost their night-caps: + A third stood excommunicate by the cudgel; + The Constable, to her eternal glory, + Drunk hard, and was converted, and she victor. + + _Ped._ Then are they victualed with Pies and Puddings, + (The trappings of good Stomachs) noble Ale + The true defender, Sausages, and smoak'd ones, + If need be, such as serve for Pikes; and Pork, + (Better the Jews ne'r hated:) here and there + A bottle of _Metheglin_, a stout _Britain_ + That will stand to 'em; what else they want, they war for. + + _Petru._ Come to council. + + _Soph._ Now you must grant conditions, or the Kingdom + Will have no other talke but this. + + _Petron._ Away then, and let's advise the best. + + _Soph._ Why do you tremble? + + _Mor._ Have I liv'd thus long to be knockt o'th' head, + With half a Washing-beetle: pray be wise, Sir. + + _Petru._ Come, something I'll do, but what it is, I know not. + + _Soph._ To Council then, and let's avoid their follies. + Guard all the doors, or we shall not have a Cloak left. [_Exeunt._ + + + _Scaena_ [_Sexta._] + + _Enter_ Petronius, Petruchio, Moroso, Sophocles, _and_ Tranio. + + _Petro._ I am indifferent, though I must confess, + I had rather see her carted. + + _Tra._ No more of that, Sir. + + _Soph._ Are ye resolv'd to give her fair conditions? + 'Twill be the safest way. + + _Petru._ I am distracted, + Would I had run my head into a halter + When I first woo'd her: if I offer peace, + She'll urge her own conditions, that's the devil. + + _Soph._ Why, say she do? + + _Petru._ Say, I am made an Ass, then; + I know her aim: may I, with reputation + (Answer me this) with safety of mine honor, + (After the mighty manage of my first wife, + Which was indeed a fury to this Filly, + After my twelve strong labours to reclaim her, + Which would have made Don _Hercules_ horn mad, + And hid him in his Hide) suffer this _Cicely_? + E're she have warm'd my sheets, e're grappell'd with me, + This Pinck, this painted Foist, this Cockle-boat, + To hang her Fights out, and defie me friends, + A well known man of war? if this be equal, + And I may suffer, say, and I have done? + + _Petron._ I do not think you may. + + _Tra._ You'll make it worse, Sir. + + _Soph._ Pray hear me good _Petruchio_: but ev'n now, + You were contented to give all conditions, + To try how far she would carry: 'Tis a folly, + (And you will find it so) to clap the curb on, + E're you be sure it proves a natural wildness, + And not a forc'd. Give her conditions, + For on my life this trick is put into her. + + _Petron._ I should believe so too. + + _Soph._ And not her own. + + _Tra._ You'll find it so. + + _Soph._ Then if she flownder with you, + Clap spurs on, and in this you'll deal with temperance, + Avoid the hurry of the world. + + _Tra._ And loose. [_Musick above._ + + _Mor._ No honor on my life, Sir. + + _Petru._ I will do it. + + _Petron._ It seems they are very merry. + + _Enter_ Jaques. + + _Petru._ Why [God] hold it. + + _Mor._ Now _Jaques_? + + _Jaq._ They are i'th' flaunt, Sir. + + _Soph._ Yes we hear 'em. + + _Jaq._ They have got a stick of Fiddles, and they firk it, + In wondrous ways, the two grand _Capitano's_, + (They brought the Auxiliary Regiments) + Dance with their coats tuckt up to their bare breeches, + And bid [them] kiss 'em, that's the burden; + They have got _Metheglin_, and audacious Ale; + And talk like Tyrants. + + _Petron._ How knowest thou? + + _Jaq._ I peept in + At a loose Lansket. + + SONG. + + _A Health for all this day + To the woman that bears the sway + And wears the breeches; + Let it come, let it come._ + + _Let this health be a Seal, + For the good of the Common-weal + the woman shall wear the breeches._ + + _Lets drink then and laugh it + And merrily merrily quaff it + And tipple, and tipple a round + here's to thy fool, + and to my fool. + Come, to all fools + though it cost us wench, many a pound._ + + _Tra._ Hark. + + _Petro._ A Song, pray silence. [_All the Women above. + Citizens and Countrey + _Mor._ They look out. women._ + + _Petru._ Good ev'n Ladies. + + _Mar._ Good you good ev'n Sir. + + _Petru._ How have you slept to night? + + _Mar._ Exceeding well Sir. + + _Petru._ Did you not wish me with you? + + _Mar._ No, believe me, + I never thought upon you. + + _Cun._ Is that he? + + _Bya._ Yes. + + _Cun._ Sir? + + _Soph._ She has drank hard, mark her Hood. + + _Cun._ You are-- + + _Soph._ Learnedly drunk, I'll hang else: let her utter. + + _Cun._ And I must tell you, _viva voce_ friend, + A very foolish fellow. + + _Tra._ There's an Ale figure. + + _Petru._ I thank you _Susan Brotes_. + + _Cit._ Forward Sister. + + _Cun._ You have espoused here a hearty woman, + A comly, and courageous. + + _Petru._ Well, I have so. + + _Cun._ And to the comfort of distressed damsels, + Women out-worn in wedlock; and such vessels, + This woman has defied you. + + _Petru._ It should seem so. + + _Cun._ And why? + + _Petru._ Yes, can you tell? + + _Cun._ For thirteen causes. + + _Petru._ Pray by your patience Mistriss. + + _Cit._ Forward Sister. + + _Petru._ Do you mean to treat of all these? + + _Cit._ Who shall let her? + + _Petro._ Do you hear, Velvet hood, we come not now + To hear your doctrine. + + _Cun._ For the first, I take it, + It doth divide it self into seven branches. + + _Petru._ Hark you good _Maria_, + Have you got a Catechiser here? + + _Tra._ Good zeal. + + _Soph._ Good three pil'd predication, will you peace, + And hear the cause we come for? + + _Cun._ Yes bob-tails + We know the cause you come for, here's the cause, + But never hope to carry her, never dream + Or flatter your opinions with a thought + Of base repentance in her. + + _Cit._ Give me Sack, + By this, and next strong Ale. + + _Cun._ Swear forward Sister. + + _Cit._ By all that's cordial, in this place we'll bury + Our bones, fames, tongues, our triumphs and [then] all + That ever yet was chronicl'd of woman; + But this brave wench, this excellent despiser, + This bane of dull obedience, shall inherit + His liberal Will, and march off with conditions + Noble, and worth her self. + + _Cun._ She shall _Tom Tilers_, + And brave ones too, my Hood shall make a Hearse-cloth, + And I'll lie under it like _Jone o' Gaunt_, + E'r I go less, my Distaff stuck up by me, + For the eternal Trophy of my conquests; + And loud fame at my head with two main bottles, + Shall fill to all the world the glorious fall + Of old _Don Gillian_. + + _Cit._ Yet a little further, + We have taken Arms in rescue of this Lady; + Most just and Noble: if ye beat us off + Without conditions, and we recant, + Use us as we deserve; and first degrade us + Of all our antient chambring: next that + The Symbols of our secresie, silk Stockings, + Hew of our heels; our petticoats of Arms + Tear off our bodies, and our Bodkins break + Over our coward heads. + + _Cun._ And ever after + To make the tainture most notorious, + At all our Crests, _videlicet_ our Plackets, + Let Laces hang, and we return again + Into our former titles, Da[y]ry-maids. + + _Petru._ No more wars: puissant Ladies, shew conditions + And freely I accept 'em. + + _Mar._ Call in _Livia;_ + She's in the Treaty too. + + _Enter_ Livia _above._ + + _Mor._ How, _Livia_? + + _Mar._ Hear you that Sir? + There's the conditions for ye, pray peruse 'em. + + _Petron._ Yes, there she is: 't had been no right rebellion, + Had she held off; what think you man? + + _Mor._ Nay nothing. + I have enough o' th' prospect: o' my conscience, + The worlds end, and the goodness of a woman + Will come together. + + _Petron._ Are you there sweet Lady? + + _Liv._ Cry you mercy Sir, I saw you not: your blessing. + + _Petron._ Yes, when I bless a jade, that stumbles with me. + How are the Articles? + + _Liv._ This is for you Sir; + And I shall think upon't. + + _Mor._ You have us'd me finely. + + _Liv._ There's no other use of thee now extant, + But to be hung up, Cassock, Cap, and all, + For some strange monster at Apothecaries. + + _Petron._ I hear you whore. + + _Liv._ It must be his then Sir, + For need will then compel me. + + _Cit._ Blessing on thee. + + [_Liv._ He wil undoe me in meere pans of Coles + To make him lustie.] + + _Petron._ There's no talking to 'em; + How are they Sir? + + _Petru._ As I expected: Liberty and clothes, [_Reads._ + When, and in what way she will: continual moneys, + Company, and all the house at her dispose; + No tongue to say, why is this? or whether will it; + New Coaches, and some buildings, she appoints here; + Hangings, and Hunting-horses: and for Plate + And Jewels for her private use, I take it, + Two thousand pound in present: then for Musick, + And women to read _French_; + + _Petron._ This must not be. + + _Petru._ And at the latter end a clause put in, + That _Livia_ shall by no man be importun'd, + This whole month yet, to marry. + + _Petron._ This is monstrous. + + _Petru._ This shall be done, I'll humor her awhile: + If nothing but repentance and undoing + Can win her love, I'll make a shift for one. + + _Soph._ When ye are once a bed, all these conditions + Lie under your own seal. + + _Mar._ Do you like 'em? + + _Petru._ Yes. + And by that faith I gave you 'fore the Priest + I'll ratifie 'em. + + _Cun._ Stay, what pledges? + + _Mar._ No, I'll take that oath; + But have a care you keep it. + + _Cit._ 'Tis not now + As when _Andrea_ liv'd. + + _Cun._ If you do juggle, + Or alter but a Letter of these Articles + We have set down, the self-same persecution. + + _Mar._ Mistrust him not. + + _Petru._ By all my honesty---- + + _Mar._ Enough, I yield. + + _Petron._ What's this Inserted here? + + _Soph._ That the two valiant women that [command] here + Shall have a Supper made 'em, and a large one, + And liberal entertainment without grudging, + And pay for all their soldiers. + + _Petru._ That shall be too; + And if a Tun of Wine will serve to pay 'em, + They shall have justice: I ordain ye all + Pay-masters, Gentlemen. + + _Tra._ Then we shall have sport boys. + + _Mar._ We'll meet you in the Parlor. + + _Petru._ Ne'r look sad, Sir, for I will do it. + + _Soph._ There's no danger in't. + + _Petr[u]._ For _Livia_'s Article you shall observe it, + I have ti'd my self. + + _Petron._ I will. + + _Petru._ Along then: now + Either I break, or this stiff plant must bow. [_Exeunt._ + + + + + _Actus Tertius. Scaena Prima._ + + _Enter_ Tranio _and_ Rowland. + + _Tra._ Come you shall take my counsel. + + _Row._ I shall hang first. + I'll no more love, that's certain, 'tis a bane, + (Next that they poison Rats with) the most mortal: + No, I thank Heaven, I have got my sleep again, + And now begin to write sence; I can walk ye + A long hour in my chamber like a man, + And think of some thing that may better me; + Some serious point of Learning, or my state; + No more ay-mees, and [miseries] _Tranio_, + Come near my brain. I'll tell thee, had the devil + But any essence in him of a man, + And could be brought to love, and love a woman, + 'Twould make his head ake worser than his horns do; + And firk him with a fire he never felt yet, + Would make him dance. I tell thee there is nothing + (It may be thy case _Tranio_, therefore hear me:) + Under the Sun (reckon the mass of follies + Crept into th' world with man) so desperate, + So mad, so senceless, poor and base, so wretched, + Roguy, and scurvy. + + _Tra._ Whether wilt thou _Rowland_? + + _Row._ As 'tis to be in love. + + _Tra._ And why for virtue sake? + + _Row._ And why for virtue's sake? dost thou not conceive me? + + _Tra._ No by my troth. + + _Row._ Pray then and heartily, + For fear thou fall into't: I'll tell thee why too, + (For I have hope to save thee) when thou lovest, + And first beginst to worship the gilt calf: + _Imprimis_, thou hast lost thy gentry, + And like a Prentice, flung away thy Freedom, + Forthwith thou art a slave. + + _Tr[a]._ That's a new Doctrine. + + _Row._ Next thou art no more man. + + _Tra._ What then? + + _Row._ A Fryppery; + Nothing but braided hair and penny ribbond, + Glove, Garter, Ring, Rose, or at best a Swabber, + If thou canst love so near to keep thy making, + Yet thou wilt lose thy language. + + _Tra._ Why? + + _Row._ Oh _Tranio_, + Those things in love, ne'r talk as we do. + + _Tra._ No? + + _Row._ No, without doubt, they sigh, and shake the head, + And sometimes whistle dolefully. + + _Tra._ No tongue? + + _Row._ Yes _Tranio_, but no truth in't, nor no reason, + And when they cant (for 'tis a kind of canting) + Ye shall hear, if you reach to understand 'em + (Which you must be a fool first, or you cannot) + Such gibb'rish; such believe me, I protest Sweet, + And oh dear Heavens, in which such constellations + Reign at the births of Lovers, this is too well, + And daigne me Lady, daigne me I beseech ye + You poor unworthy lump, and then she licks him. + + _Tra._ A ---- on't, this is nothing. + + _Row._ Thou hast hit it: + Then talks she ten times worse, and wryes, and wriggles, + As though she had the Itch (and so it may be.) + + _Tra._ Why thou art grown a strange discoverer. + + _Row._ Of mine own follies _Tranio_. + + _Tra._ Wilt thou _Rowland_, + Certain ne'er love again? + + _Row._ I think so, certain, + And if I be not dead drunk I shall keep it. + + _Tra._ Tell me but this; what dost thou think of women? + + _Row._ Why, as I think of Fiddles, they delight me, + Till their strings break. + + _Tra._ What strings? + + _Row._ Their modesties, + Faiths, Vows, and Maidenheads, for they are like Kits + They have but four strings to 'em. + + _Tra._ What wilt thou + Give me for ten pound now, when thou next lovest, + And the same woman still? + + _Row._ Give me the money; + A hundred, and my Bond for't. + + _Tra._ But pray hear me, + I'll work all means I can to reconcile ye: + + _Row._ Do, do, Give me the money; + + _Tra._ There. + + _Row._ Work _Tranio_. + + _Tra._ You shall go sometimes where she is. + + _Row._ Yes straight. + This is the first good I e'er got by woman. + + _Tra._ You would think it strange now, if another beauty + As good as hers, say better. + + _Row._ Well. + + _Tra._ Conceive me, + This is no point o' th' wager. + + _Row._ That's all one. + + _Tra._ Love you as much, or more, than now she hates you. + + _Row._ 'Tis a good hearing, let 'em love: ten pound more, + I never love that woman. + + _Tra._ There it is; + And so an hundred, if you lose. + + _Row._ 'Tis done; + Have you another to put in? + + _Tra._ No, no Sir. + + _Row._ I am very sorry: now will I erect + A new game, and go hate for th' bell; I am sure + I am in excellent case to win. + + _Tra._ I must have leave + To tell you, and tell truth too, what she is, + And how she suffers for you. + + _Row._ Ten pound more, + I never believe you. + + _Tra._ No Sir, I am stinted. + + _Row._ Well, take your best way then. + + _Tra._ Let's walk, I am glad + Your sullen Feavor's off. + + _Row._ Shalt see me _Tranio_ + A monstrous merry man now: let's to the Wedding, + And as we go, tell me the general hurry + Of these mad wenches and their works. + + _Tra._ I will. + + _Row._ And do thy worst. + + _Tra._ Something I'll do. + + _Row._ Do _Tranio_. [_Exeunt._ + + + _Scaena Secunda._ + + _Enter_ Pedro, _and_ Jaques. + + _Ped._ A pair of Stocks bestride 'em, Are they gone? + + _Ja[q]._ Yes they are gone; and all the pans i'th Town + Beating before 'em: What strange admonitions + They gave my Master, and how fearfully + They threaten'd, if he broke 'em? + + _Ped._ O' my Conscience + H'as found his full match now. + + _Jaq._ That I believe too. + + _Ped._ How did she entertain him? + + _Jaq._ She lookt on him. + + _Ped._ But scurvely. + + _Jaq._ With no great affection + That I saw: and I heard some say he kiss'd her, + But 'twas upon a treaty, and some copies + Say, but her Cheek. + + _Ped._ _Jaques_, What wouldst thou give + For such a Wife now? + + _Jaq._ Full as many P[r]ayers + As the most zealous Puritane conceives + Out of the meditation of fat Veal, + Or Birds of prey, cram'd Capons, against Players, + And to as good a tune too, but against her: + That heaven would bless me from her: mark it _Pedro_, + If this house be not turn'd within this fortnight + With the foundation upward, I'll be carted. + My comfort is yet, that those _Amorites_, + That came to back her cause, those Heathen Whores, + Had their Hoods hallowed with Sack. + + _Ped._ How Div'lish drunk they were! + + _Ja[q]._ And how they tumbled, _Pedro_, Didst thou marke + The Countrey _Cavaliero_? + + _Ped._ Out upon her, + How she turn'd down the Bragget! + + _Jaq._ I that sunk her. + + _Ped._ That Drink was well put to her; What a Somer salt + When the chair fel, she fetch'd, with her heels upward! + + _Jaq._ And what a piece of Landskip she discover'd! + + _Ped._ Didst mark her, when her hood fell in the Posset? + + _Jaq._ Yes, and there rid, like a _Dutch_-Hoy; the Tumbrel, + When she had got her ballasse. + + _Ped._ That I saw too. + + _Jaq._ How fain she would have drawn on _Sophocles_ + To come aboard, and how she simper'd it-- + + _Ped._ I warrant her, she has been a worthy striker. + + _Jaq._ I'th heat of Summer there had been some hope on't. + + _Ped._ Hang her. + + _Jaq._ She offer'd him a Harry-groat, and belcht out, + Her stomach being blown with Ale, such Courtship, + Upon my life has giv'n him twenty stools since: + Believe my Calculation, these old Women, + When they are tippled, and a little heated, + Are like new wheels, they'l roare you all the Town ore + Till they be greas'd. + + _Ped._ The City _Cinque-a-pace_ + Dame Tost and Butter, had the Bob too? + + _Jaq._ Yes, + But she was sullen drunk, and given to filching, + I see her offer at a Spoon; my Master-- + I do not like his look, I fear h'as fasted + For all this preparation; lets steal by him. [_Exeunt._ + + + _Scaena Tertia._ + + _Enter_ Petruchio, _and_ Sophocles. + + _Soph._ Not let you touch her all this night? + + _Petru._ Not touch her. + + _Soph._ Where was your courage? + + _Petru._ Where was her obedience? + Never poor Man was sham'd so; never Rascal + That keeps a stud of Whores was us'd so basely. + + _Soph._ Pray you tell me one thing truly; + Do you love her? + + _Petru._ I would I did not, upon that condition + I past thee half my Land. + + _Soph._ It may be then, + Her modesty requir'd a little violence? + Some Women love to struggle. + + _Petru._ She had it, + And so much that I sweat for't, so I did, + But to no end: I washt an _Ethiope_; + She swore my force might weary her, but win her + I never could, nor should, till she consented; + And I might take her body prisoner, + But for her mind or appetite-- + + _Soph._ 'Tis strange; + This woman is the first I ever read of, + Refus'd a warranted occasion, + And standing on so fair termes. + + _Petru._ I shall quit her. + + _Soph._ Us'd you no more art? + + _Petru._ Yes, I swore to her, + And by no little ones, if presently + Without more disputation on the matter, + She grew not nearer to me, and dispatcht me + Out of the [pain] I was, for I was nettl'd, + And willingly, and eagerly, and sweetly, + I would to her Chamber-maid, and in her hearing + Begin her such a huntes-up. + + _Soph._ Then she started? + + _Petru._ No more than I do now; marry she answered + If I were so dispos'd, she could not help it; + But there was one call'd _Jaques_, a poor Butler + One that might well content a single woman. + + _Soph._ And he should tilt her. + + _Petru._ To that sence, and last + She bad me yet these six nights look for nothing + Nor strive to purchase it, but fair good night + And so good morrow, and a kiss or two + To close my stomach, for her vow had seal'd it, + And she would keep it constant. + + _Soph._ Stay ye, stay ye, + Was she thus when you woo'd her? + + _Petru._ Nothing _Sophocles_, + More keenely eager, I was oft afraid + She had been light, and easie, she would showre + Her kisses so upon me. + + _Soph._ Then I fear + An other spoke's i'th wheele. + + _Petru._ Now thou hast found me, + There gnawes my Devil, _Sophocles_, O patience + Preserve me; that I make her not example + By some unworthy way; as fleaing her, + Boyling, or making verjuice, drying her. + + _Soph._ I hear her. + + _Petru._ Mark her then, and see the heir + Of spight and prodigality, she has studied + A way to begger's both, and by this hand + [Maria _at the dore, and Servant and Woman._ + She shall be, if I live, a Doxy. + + _Soph._ Fy Sir. + + _Mar._ I do not like that dressing, tis too poor, + Let me have six gold laces, broad and massy, + And betwixt ev'ry lace a rich Embroydry, + Line the Gown through with Plush perfum'd, and purffle + All the sleeves down with Pearl. + + _Petru._ What think you _Sophocles_. + In what point stands my state now? + + _Mar._ For those hangings + Let'em be carried where I gave appointment, + They are too base for my use, and bespeak + New Pieces of the Civil Wars of _France_, + Let 'em be large and lively, and all silk work, + The borders Gold. + + _Soph._ I marry sir, this cuts it. + + _Mar._ That fourteen yards of Satten give my Woman, + I do not like the colour, 'tis too civil: + Ther's too much Silk i'th lace too; tell the _Dutchman_ + That brought the Mares, he must with all speed send me + An other suit of Horses, and by all means + Ten cast of Hawkes for th' River, I much care not + What price they bear, so they be sound, and flying, + For the next Winter, I am for the Country; + And mean to take my pleasure; where's the Horseman? + + _Petru._ She means to ride a great Horse. + + _Soph._ With a side sadle? + + _Petru._ Yes, and shee'l run a tilt within this twelvemonth. + + _Mar._ To morrow I'll begin to learn, but pray sir + Have a great care he be an easie doer, + 'Twill spoil a Scholar else. + + _Soph._ An easie doer, + Did you hear that? + + _Petru._ Yes, I shall meet her morals + Ere it be long I fear not. + + _Mar._ O good morrow. + + _Soph._ Good morrow Lady, how is't now. + + _Mar._ Faith sickly, + This house stands in an ill ayr. + + _Petru._ Yet more charges? + + _Mar._ Subject to rots, and rheums; out on't, 'tis nothing + But a tild fog. + + _Petru._ What think you of the Lodge then? + + _Mar._ I like the seat, but 'tis too little, _Sophocles_ + Let me have thy opinion, thou hast judgment. + + _Petru._ 'Tis very well. + + _Mar._ What if I pluck it down, + And build a square upon it, with two courts + Still rising from the entrance? + + _Petru._ And i'th midst + A Colledge for young Scolds. + + _Mar._ And to the Southward + Take in a Garden of some twenty Acres, + And cast it of the _Italian_ fashion, hanging. + + _Petru._ And you could cast your self so too; pray Lady + Will not this cost much Money? + + _Mar._ Some five thousand, + Say six: I'll have it Battel'd too. + + _Petru._ And gilt; _Maria_, + This is a fearful course you take, pray think on't, + You are a Woman now, a Wife, and his + That must in honesty, and justice look for + Some due obedience from you. + + _Mar._ That bare word + Shall cost you many a pound more, build upon't; + Tell me of due obedience? What's a Husband? + What are we married for, to carry Sumpters? + Are we not one peece with you, and as worthy + Our own intentions, as you yours? + + _Petru._ Pray hear me. + + _Mar._ Take two small drops of water, equal weigh'd, + Tell me which is the heaviest, and which ought + First to descend in duty? + + _Petru._ You mistake me; + I urge not service from you, nor obedience + In way of duty, but of love, and Credit; + All I expect is but a noble care + Of what I have brought you, and of what I am, + And what our name may be. + + _Mar._ That's in my making. + + _Petru._ 'Tis true it is so. + + _Mar._ Yes, it is _Petruchio_, + For there was never Man without our molding, + Without our stamp upon him, and our justice, + Left any thing three ages after him + Good, and his own. + + _Soph._ Good Lady understand him. + + _Mar._ I do too much, sweet _Sophocles_, he's one + Of a most spightful self condition, + Never at peace with any thing but Age, + That has no teeth left to return his anger: + A Bravery dwells in his blood yet, of abusing + His first good wife; he's sooner fire than powder, + And sooner mischief. + + _Petru._ If I be so sodain + Do not you fear me? + + _Mar._ No nor yet care for you, + And if it may be lawful, I defie you: + + _Petru._ Do's this become you now? + + _Mar._ It shall become me. + + _Petru._ Thou disobedient, weak, vain-glorious woman, + Were I but half so wilful, as thou spightful, + I should now drag thee to thy duty. + + _Mar._ Drag me? + + _Petru._ But I am friends again: take all your pleasure. + + _Mar._ Now you perceive him _Sophocles_. + + _Petru._ I love thee + Above thy vanity, thou faithless creature. + + _Mar._ Would I had been so happy when I Married, + But to have met an honest Man like thee, + For I am sure thou art good, I know thou art honest, + A hansome hurtless man, a loving man, + Though never a penny with him; and those eyes, + That face, and that true heart; weare this for my sake, + And when thou think'st upon me pity me: + I am cast away. [_Exit_ Mar. + + _Soph._ Why how now man? + + _Petru._ Pray leave me, + And follow your advices. + + _Soph._ The Man's jealous: + + _Petru._ I shall find a time ere it be long, to ask you + One or two foolish questions. + + _Soph._ I shall answer + As well as I am able, when you call me: + If she mean true, 'tis but a little killing, + And if I do not venture it's-- + Farewel sir. [_Exit_ Soph. + + _Petru._ Pray farewel. Is there no keeping + A Wife to one mans use? no wintering + These cattel without straying? 'Tis hard dealing, + Very hard dealing, Gentlemen, strange dealing: + Now in the name of madness, what Star raign'd, + What dog-star, bull, or bear-star, when I married + This second wife, this whirlwind, that takes all + Within her compass? was I not well warn'd, + (I thought I had, and I believe I know it,) + And beaten to repentance in the dayes + Of my first doting? had I not wife enough + To turn my love to? did I want vexation, + Or any special care to kill my heart? + Had I not ev'ry morning a rare breakfast, + Mixt with a learned Lecture of ill language, + Louder than _Tom o'Lincoln_; and at dinner, + A dyet of the same dish? was there evening + That ere past over us, without thou Knave, + Or thou Whore for digestion? had I ever + A pull at this same poor sport men run mad for + But like a Cur I was fain to shew my teeth first, + And almost worry her? and did Heaven forgive me, + And take this Serpent from me? and am I + Keeping tame Devils now again? my heart akes; + Something I must do speedily: I'll die, + If I can hansomely, for that's the way + To make a Rascal of her; I am sick, + And I'll go very near it, but I'll perish. [_Exit._ + + + _Scaena Quarta._ + + _Enter_ Livia, Byancha, Tranio, _and_ Rowland. + + _Liv._ Then I must be content, Sir, with my fortune. + + _Row._ And I with mine. + + _Liv._ I did not think, a look, + Or a poor word or two, could have displanted + Such a fix'd constancy, and for your end too. + + _Row._ Come, come, I know your courses: there's your gew-gaws, + Your Rings, and Bracelets, and the Purse you gave me, + The Money's spent in entertaining you + At Plays, and Cherry-gardens. + + _Liv._ There's your Chain too. + But if you'll give me leave, I'll wear the hair still; + I would yet remember you. + + _Bya._ Give him his love wench; + The young Man has imployment for't: + + _Tra._ Fie _Rowland_. + + _Row._ You cannot fie me out a hundred pound + With this poor plot: yet, let me ne'r see day more, + If something do not struggle strangely in me. + + _Bya._ Young Man, let me talk with you. + + _Row._ Well, young Woman. + + _Bya._ This was your Mistriss once. + + _Row._ Yes. + + _Bya._ Are ye honest? + I see you are young, and hansome. + + _Row._ I am honest. + + _Bya._ Why that's well said: and there's no doubt your judgement + Is good enough, and strong enough to tell you + Who are your foes, and friends: Why did you leave her? + + _Row._ She made a puppy of me. + + _Bya._ Be that granted: + She must do so sometimes, and oftentimes; + Love were too serious else. + + _Row._ A witty Woman. + + _Bya._ Had you lov'd me-- + + _Row._ I would I had. + + _Bya._ And dearly; + And I had lov'd you so: you may love worse Sir, + But that is not material. + + _Row._ I shall loose. + + _Bya._ Some time or other for variety + I should have call'd you Fool, or Boy, or bid you + Play with the Pages: but have lov'd you still, + Out of all question, and extreamly too; + You are a Man made to be loved. + + _Row._ This Woman + Either abuses me, or loves me deadly. + + _Bya._ I'll tell you one thing, if I were to choose + A Husband to mine own mind, I should think + One of your Mothers making would content me, + For o' my Conscience she makes good ones. + + _Row._ Lady, + I'll leave you to your commendations: + I am in again, The Divel take their tongues. + + _Bya._ You shall not goe. + + _Row._ I will: yet thus far _Livia_, + Your Sorrow may induce me to forgive you, + But never love again; if I stay longer, + I have lost two hundred pound. + + _Liv._ Good Sir, but thus much-- + + _Tra._ Turn if thou beest a Man. + + _Liv._ But one kiss of you; + One parting kiss, and I am gone too. + + _Row._ Come, + I shall kiss fifty pound away at this clap: + We'll have one more, and then farewel. + + _Liv._ Farewel. + + _Bya._ Well, go thy wayes, thou bear'st a kind heart with thee. + + _Tra._ H'as made a stand. + + _Bya._ A noble, brave young fellow + Worthy a Wench indeed. + + _Row._ I will: I will not. [_Exit_ Rowland. + + _Tra._ He's gone: but shot agen; play you but your part, + And I will keep my promise: forty Angels + In fair gold, Lady: wipe your eyes: he's yours + If I have any wit. + + _Liv._ I'll pay the forfeit. + + _Bya._ Come then, let's see your sister, how she fares now, + After her skirmish: and be sure, _Moroso_ + Be kept in good hand; then all's perfect, _Livia_. [_Exeunt._ + + + _Scaena Quinta._ + + _Enter_ Jaques _and_ Pedro. + + _Ped._ O _Jaques_, _Jaques_, What becomes of us? + Oh my sweet Master. + + _Jaq._ Run for a Physitian, + And a whole peck of Pothecaries, _Pedro_. + He will die, didle, didle die: if they come not quickly, + And bring all People that are skilful + In Lungs and Livers: raise the neighbours, + And all the _Aquavite_-bottles extant; + And, O the Parson, _Pedro_; O the Parson, + A little of his comfort, never so little; + Twenty to one you find him at the Bush, + There's the best Ale. + + _Ped._ I fly. [_Exit_ Pedro. + + _Enter_ Maria, _and_ Servants. + + _Mar._ Out with the Trunks, ho: + Why are you idle? Sirha, up to th' Chamber, + And take the Hangings down, and see the Linnen + Packt up, and sent away within this half hour. + What, Are the Carts come yet? some honest body + Help down the Chests of Plate, and some the Wardrobe, + Alass, we are undone else. + + _Jaq._ Pray forsooth; + And I beseech ye, tell me, is he dead yet? + + _Mar._ No, but is drawing on: out with the Armour. + + _Jaq._ Then I'll go see him. + + _Mar._ Thou art undone then Fellow: no Man that has + Been neer him come near me. + + _Enter_ Sophocles, _and_ Petronius. + + _Soph._ Why how now Lady, What means this? + + _Petron._ Now daughter, How does my Son? + + _Mar._ Save all you can for Heavens sake. + + _Enter_ Livia, Byancha, _and_ Tranio. + + _Liv._ Be of good comfort, Sister. + + _Mar._ O my Casket. + + _Petron._ How do's thy Husband Woman? + + _Mar._ Get you gon, if you mean to save your lives: the Sickness. + + _Petron._ Stand further off, I prethee. + + _Mar._ Is i'th house Sir, + My Husband has it now; + Alas he is infected, and raves extreamly: + Give me some Counsel friends. + + _Bya._ Why lock the doors up, + And send him in a Woman to attend him. + + _Mar._ I have bespoke two Women; and the City + Hath sent a Watch by this time: Meat nor Money + He shall not want, nor Prayers. + + _Petron._ How long is't + Since it first took him? + + _Mar._ But within this three hours. + + _Enter Watch._ + + I am frighted from my wits:--O here's the Watch; + Pray doe your Office, lock the doors up Friends, + And patience be his Angel. + + _Tra._ This comes unlook'd for: + + _Mar._ I'll to the lodge; some that are kind and love me, + I know will visit me. [Petruchio _within._ + + _Petru._ Doe you hear my Masters: ho, you that lock the doors up. + + _Petron._ 'Tis his voice. + + _Tra._ Hold, and let's hear him. + + _Petru._ Will ye starve me here: am I a Traytor, or an Heretick. + Or am I grown infectious? + + _Petron._ Pray sir, pray. + + _Petru._ I am as well as you are, goodman puppy. + + _Mar._ Pray have patience. + You shall want nothing Sir. + + _Petru._ I want a cudgel, + And thee, thou wickedness. + + _Petron._ He speaks well enough. + + _Mar._ 'Had ever a strong heart Sir. + + _Petru._ Will ye hear me? + First be pleas'd + To think I know ye all, and can distinguish + Ev'ry Mans several voice: you that spoke first, + I know my father in law; the other _Tranio_, + And I heard _Sophocles_; the last, pray mark me, + Is my dam'd Wife _Maria_: + If any Man misdoubt me for infected, + There is mine Arme, let any Man look on't. + + _Enter Doctor and Pothecary._ + + _Doct._ Save ye Gentlemen. + + _Petron._ O welcome Doctor, + Ye come in happy time; pray your opinion, + What think you of his pulse? + + _Doct._ It beats with busiest, + And shews a general inflammation, + Which is the symptome of a pestilent Feaver, + Take twenty ounces from him. + + _Petru._ Take a Fool; + Take an ounce from mine arme, and Doctor _Deuz-ace_, + I'll make a close-stoole of your Velvet Costard. + ---- Gentlemen, doe ye make a may-game on me? + I tell ye once again, I am as sound, + As well, as wholsome, and as sensible, + As any of ye all: Let me out quickly, + Or as I am a Man, I'll beat the walls down, + And the first thing I light upon shall pay for't. + [_Exit Doctor and Pothecary._ + + _Petro._ Nay, we'll go with you Doctor. + + _Mar._ 'Tis the safest; + I saw the Tokens Sir. + + _Petro._ Then there is but one way. + + _Petru._ Will it please you open? + + _Tra._ His fit grows stronger still. + + _Mar._ Let's save our selves Sir, + He's past all worldly cure. + + _Petro._ Friends do your office. + And what he wants, if Money, Love, or Labor, + Or any way may win it, let him have it. + Farewell, and pray my honest Friends-- [_Exeunt._ + + _Petru._ Why Rascals, + Friends, Gentlemen, thou beastly Wife, _Jaques_; + None hear me? Who at the door there? + + _1 Watch._ Think I pray Sir, + Whether you are going, and prepare your self. + + _2 Watch._ These idle thoughts disturb you, the good Gentlewoman + Your Wife has taken care you shall want nothing. + + _Petru._ Shall I come out in quiet? answer me, + Or shall I charge a Fowling-Piece, and make + Mine own way; two of ye I cannot miss, + If I miss three; ye come here to assault me. + I am as excellent well, I thank Heaven for't, + And have as good a stomach at this instant-- + + _2 Watch._ That's an ill sign. + + _1 Watch._ He draws on; he's a dead Man. + + _Petru._ And sleep as soundly; Will ye look upon me? + + _1 Watch._ Do you want Pen and Ink? while you have sense sir, + Settle your state. + + _Petru._ Sirs, I am well, as you are; + Or any Rascal living. + + _2 Watch._ Would you were Sir. + + _Petru._ Look to your selves, and if you love your lives, + Open the door, and fly me, for I shoot else; + --I'll shoot, and presently, chain-bullets; + And under four I will not kill. + + _1 Watch._ Let's quit him, + It may be it is a trick: he's dangerous. + + _2 Watch._ The Devil take the hinmost, I cry. [_Exit Watch running._ + + _Enter_ Petruchio _with a Piece._ + + _Petru._ Have among ye; + The door shall open too, I'll have a fair shoot; + Are ye all gone? tricks in my old dayes, crackers + Put now upon me? and, by Lady _Green-sleeves_? + Am I grown so tame after all my triumphs? + But that I should be thought mad, if I rail'd, + As much as they deserve, against these Women, + I would now rip up, from the primitive Cuckold, + All their arch-villanies, and all their doubles, + Which are more than a hunted Hare ere thought on: + When a Man has the fairest, and the sweetest + Of all their Sex, and as he thinks the noblest, + What has he then? and I'll speak modestly, + He has a Quartern-ague, that shall shake + All his estate to nothing; never cur'd, + Nor never dying; He'as a ship to venture + His fame, and credit in, which if he Man not + With more continual labour than a Gally + To make her tith, either she grows a Tumbrel, + Not worth the Cloth she wears; or springs more leakes + Than all the fame of his posterity + Can ever stop again: I could raile twenty dayes; + Out on 'em, Hedge-hogs, + He that shall touch 'em, has a thousand thorns + Runs through his fingers: If I were unmarried, + I would do any thing below repentance, + Any base dunghill slavery; be a Hang-man, + Ere I would be a Husband: O the thousand, + Thousand, ten thousand wayes they have to kill us! + Some fall with t[o]o much stringing of the Fiddles, + And those are fools; some, that they are not suffer'd, + And those are Maudlin-lovers: some, like Scorpions, + They poyson with their tails, and those are Martyrs; + Some dye with doing good, those Benefactors, + And leave 'em land to leap away: some few, + For those are rarest, they are said to kill + With kindness, and fair usage; but what they are + My Catalogue discovers not: only 'tis thought + They are buried in old Walls, with their heels upward. + I could raile twenty dayes together now. + I'll seek 'em out, and if I have not reason, + And very sensible, why this was done, + I'll go a birding yet, and some shall smart for't. [_Exit._ + + + + + _Actus Quartus. Scaena Prima._ + + _Enter_ Moroso _and_ Petronius. + + _Mor._ That I do love her, is without all question, + And most extremely, dearly, most exactly; + And that I would ev'n now, this present Monday, + Before all others, Maids, Wives, Women, Widows, + Of what degree or calling, Marry her, + As certain too; but to be made a Whim-wham, + A Jib-crack, and a Gentleman o'th first house + For all my kindness to her. + + _Petron._ How you take it? + Thou get a Wench, thou get a dozen night-caps? + Wouldst have her come, and lick thee like a Calfe, + And blow thy nose, and buss thee? + + _Mor._ Not so neither. + + _Petron._ What wouldst thou have her do? + + _Mor._ Do as she [sh]ould do; + Put on a clean Smock, and to Church, and Marry, + And then to Bed a Gods name, this is fair play, + And keeps the Kings peace, let her leave her bobs, + I have had too many of them, and her quillets, + She is as nimble that way as an Ee[le]; + But in the way she ought to me especially, + A sow of Lead is swifter. + + _Petron._ Quoat your griefs down. + + _Mor._ Give fair quarter, I am old and crasie, + And subject to much fumbling, I confess it; + Yet something I would have that's warme, to hatch me: + But understand me I would have it so, + I buy not more repentance in the bargain + Than the ware's worth I have; if you allow me + Worthy your Son-in-Law, and your allowance, + Do it a way of credit; let me show so, + And not be troubled in my visitations, + With blows, and bitterness, and down-right railings, + As if we were to couple like two Cats, + With clawing, and loud clamour: + + _Petron._ Thou fond Man. + Hast thou forgot the Ballad, crabbed age, + Can _May_ and _January_ match together, + And nev'r a storm between 'em? say she abuse thee, + Put case she doe. + + _Mor._ Well. + + _Petron._ Nay, believe she do's. + + _Mor._ I do believe she do's. + + _Petron._ And div'lishly: + Art thou a whit the worse? + + _Mor._ That's not the matter, + I know, being old, tis fit I am abus'd; + I know 'tis hansome, and I know moreover + I am to love her for't. + + _Petron._ Now you come to me. + + _Mor._ Nay more than this; I find too, and find certain, + What Gold I have, Pearle, Bracelets, Rings, or Owches, + Or what she can desire, Gowns, Petticotes, + Wastcotes, Embroydered-stockings, Scarffs, Cals, Feathers, + Hats, five pound Garters, Muffs, Masks, Ruffs, and Ribands, + I am to give her for't. + + _Petron._ 'Tis right, you are so. + + _Mor._ But when I have done all this, and think it duty, + Is't requisit an other bore my nostrils? + Riddle me that. + + _Petron._ Go get you gone, and dreame + She's thine within these two dayes, for she is so; + The Boy's beside the saddle: get warm broths, + And feed a pace; think not of worldly business, + It cools the blood; leave off your tricks, they are hateful, + And meere fore-runners of the ancient measures; + Contrive your beard o'th top cut like _Verdugoes_; + It shows you would be wise, and burn your night-cap, + It looks like half a winding-sheet, and urges + From a young Wench nothing but cold repentance: + You may eate Onyons, so you'l not be lavish. + + _Mor._ I am glad of that. + + _Petron._ They purge the blood, and quicken, + But after 'em, conceive me, sweep your mouth, + And where there wants a tooth, stick in a clove. + + _Mor._ Shall I hope once again, say't. + + _Petra._ You shall Sir: + And you shall have your hope. + + _Moro._ Why there's a match then. + + _Enter_ Byancha _and_ Tranio. + + _Byan._ You shall not find me wanting, get you gone. + Here's the old Man, he'l think you are plotting else + Something against his new Son. [_Exit_ Tranio. + + _Moro._ Fare ye well Sir. [_Exit_ Moroso. + + Byan. _And ev'ry Buck had his Doe, + And ev'ry Cuckold a Bell at his Toe: + Oh what sport should we have then, then Boyes then, + Oh what sport should we have then?_ + + _Petro._ This is the spirit, that inspires 'em all. + + _By._ Give you good ev'n. + + _Petro._ A word with you Sweet Lady. + + _By._ I am very hasty, Sir. + + _Petro._ So you were ever. + + _By._ Well, What's your will? + + _Petro._ Was not your skilful hand + In this last stratagem? Were not your mischiefs + Eeking the matter on? + + _By._ In's shutting up? + Is that it? + + _Petro._ Yes. + + _By._ I'll tell you. + + _Petro._ Doe. + + _By._ And truly. + Good old Man, I do grieve exceeding much, + I fear too much. + + _Petro._ I am sorry for your heaviness. + Belike you can repent then? + + _By._ There you are wide too. + Not that the thing was done (conceive me rightly) + Do's any way molest me. + + _Petro._ What then Lady? + + _By._ But that I was not in't, there's my sorrow, there + Now you understand me, for I'll tell you, + It was so sound a piece, and so well carried, + And if you mark the way, so hansomely, + Of such a heighth, and excellence, and art + I have not known a braver; for conceive me, + When the gross fool her Husband would be sick-- + + _Petro._ Pray stay. + + _By._ Nay, good, your patience: and no sence for't, + Then stept your daughter in. + + _Petro._ By your appointment. + + _By._ I would it had, on that condition + I had but one half smock, I like it so well; + And like an excellent cunning Woman, cur'd me + One madness with another, which was rare, + And to our weak beliefs, a wonder. + + _Petro._ Hang ye, + For surely, if your husband look not to ye, + I know what will. + + _By._ I humbly thank your worship. + And so I take my leave. + + _Petro._ You have a hand I hear too. + + _By._ I have two Sir. + + _Petro._ In my young daughters business. + + _By._ You will find there + A fitter hand than mine, to reach her frets, + And play down diddle to her. + + _Petro._ I shall watch ye. + + _By._ Do. + + _Petro._ And I shall have Justice. + + _By._ Where? + + _Petro._ That's all one; + I shall be with you at a turne hence forward. + + _By._ Get you a Posset too; and so good ev'n Sir. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Petruchio, Jaques, _and_ Pedro. + + _Jaq._ And as I told your worship, all the hangings, + Brass, Pewter, Plate, ev'n to the very looking-glasses. + + _Ped._ And that that hung for our defence, the Armor, + And the March Beere was going too: Oh _Jaques_ + What a sad sight was that! + + _Jaq._ Even the two Rundlets, + The two that was our hope, of Muskadel, + (Better nev'r tongue tript over) those two Cannons, + To batter brawn withal at _Christmass_, Sir, + Ev'n those two lovely Twyns, the Enemy + Had almost cut off clean. + + _Petru._ Goe trim the House up. + And put the things in order as they were. [_Ex._ Ped. _and_ Jaq. + I shall find time for all this: could I find her + But constant any way, I had done my business; + Were she a Whore directly, or a Scold, + An unthrift, or a Woman made to hate me, + I had my wish, and knew which way to rayne her: + But while she shews all these, and all their losses, + A kind of linsey woolsey, mingled mischief + Not to be ghest at, and whether true, or borrowed, + + _Enter_ Maria. + + Not certain neither, What a hap had I, + And what a tydie fortune, when my fate + Flung me upon this Bear-whelp! here she comes, + Now, if she have a colour, for the fault is + A cleanly one, upon my Conscience + I shall forgive her yet, and find a something + Certain, I Married for: her wit: I'll marke her. + + _Mar._ Not let his Wife come near him in his sickness? + Not come to comfort him? she that all Laws + Of heaven, and Nations have ordain'd his second, + Is she refus'd? and two old Paradoxes, + Pieces of five and fifty, without faith + Clapt in upon him? h'as a little pet, + That all young Wives must follow necessary, + Having their Maiden-heads-- + + _Petru._ This is an Axiome + I never heard before. + + _Mar._ Or say Rebellion, + If we durst be so foul, which two fair words + Alas win us from, in an hour, an instant, + We are so easie, make him so forgetful + Both of his reason, honesty, and credit, + As to deny his Wife a visitation? + His Wife, that (though she was a little foolish,) + Lov'd him, Oh Heaven forgive her for't! nay doted, + Nay had run mad, had she not married him. + + _Petru._ Though I do know this falser than the Devil, + I cannot choose but love it. + + _Mar._ What do I know + But those that came to keep him, might have kill'd him, + In what a case had I been then? I dare not + Believe him such a base, debosh'd companion, + That one refusal of a tender Maid + Would make him faign this Sickness out of need, + And take a Keeper to him of Fourscore + To play at _Billiards_; one that mew'd content + And all her teeth together; not come near him? + + _Petru._ This Woman would have made a most rare Jesuite, + She can prevaricate on any thing: + There was not to be thought a way to save her + In all imagination, beside this. + + _Mar._ His unkind dealing, which was worst of all, + In sending, who knowes whether, all the plate, + And all the houshold-stuffe, had I not crost it, + By a great providence, and my friends assistance + Which he will thank me one day for: alas, + I could have watch'd as well as they, have serv'd him + In any use, better, and willinger. + The Law commands me to do it, love commands me, + And my own duty charges me. + + _Petru._ Heav'n bless me. + And now I have said my Prayers, I'll go to her: + Are you a Wife for any Man? + + _Mar._ For you Sir. + If I were worse, I were better; That you are well, + At least, that you appear so, I thank Heaven, + Long may it hold, and that you are here, I am glad too; + But that you have abus'd me wretchedly, + And such a way that shames the name of Husband, + Such a malicious mangy way, so mingled, + (Never look strangely on me, I dare tell you) + With breach of honesty, care, kindness, manners. + + _Petru._ Holla, you kick too fast. + + _Mar._ Was I a stranger? + Or had I vow'd perdition to your person? + Am I not Married to you, tell me that? + + _Petru._ I would I could not tell you. + + _Mar._ Is my presence, + The stock I come of, which is worshipful, + If I should say Right worshipful, I ly'd not, + My Grandsire was a Knight. + + _Petru._ O'the Shire? + + _Mar._ A Soldier, + Which none of all thy Family e're heard of, + But one conductor of thy name, a Grasier + That ran away with pay: or am I grown + (Because I have been a little peevish to you, + Onely to try your temper) such a dogge-leech + I could not be admitted to your presence? + + _Petru._ If I endure this, hang me. + + _Mar._ And two deaths heads, + Two _Harry_ Groats, that had their faces worn, + Almost their names away too. + + _Petru._ Now hear me. + For I will stay no longer. + + _Mar._ This you shall: + How ever you shall think to flatter me, + For this offence, which no submission + Can ever mediate for, you'l find it so, + What ever you shall do by intercession, + What you can offer, what your Land can purchase, + What all your friends, or families can win, + Shall be but this, not to forswear your knowledge, + But ever to forbear it: now your will Sir. + + _Petru._ Thou art the subtlest Woman I think living, + I am sure the lewdest; now be still, and mark me; + Were I but any way addicted to the Devil, + I should now think I had met a play-fellow + To profit by, and that way the most learned + That ever taught to murmur. Tell me thou, + Thou most poor, paltry spiteful Whore: Do you cry? + I'll make you roare, before I leave. + + _Mar._ Your pleasure. + + _Petru._ Was it not sin enough, thou Fruiterer, + Full of the fall thou eat'st: thou Devils Broker, + Thou Seminary of all sedition, + Thou Sword of veng'ance, with a thred hung o're us, + Was it not sin enough, and wickedness + In full abundance? Was it not vexation + At all points, _cap a pe_? nay, I shall pinch you, + Thus like a rotten Rascal to abuse + The name of Heaven, the tye of Marriage, + The honour of thy Friends; the expectation + Of all that thought thee virtuous, with Rebellion, + Childish and base Rebellion, but continuing + After forgiveness too, and worse, your mischief, + And against him, setting the hope of Heaven by, + And the dear reservation of his honor + Nothing above ground could have won to hate thee: + Well, goe thy wayes. + + _Mar._ Yes. + + _Petru._ You shall hear me out first: + What punishment may'st thou deserve, thou thing, + Thou Idle thing of nothing, thou pull'd Primrose, + That two hours after, art a Weed, and wither'd, + For this last flourish on me? am I one + Selected out of all the Husbands living, + To be so ridden by a Tit of ten pence, + Am I so blind and Bed-rid? I was mad, + And had the Plague, and no Man must come near me, + I must be shut up, and my substance bezel'd, + And an old Woman watch me. + + _Mar._ Well Sir, well, + You may well glory in't. + + _Petru._ And when it comes to opening, 'tis my plot, + I must undoe my self forsooth: do'st hear me? + If I should beat thee now, as much may be, + Do'st thou not well deserve it, o' thy Conscience, + Do'st thou not cry, come beat me? + + _Mar._ I defie you. + And my last loving tears farewell: the first stroke, + The very first you give me, if you dare strike, + Try me, and you shall find it so, for ever, + Never to be recall'd: I know you love me, + Mad till you have enjoy'd me; I do turne + Utterly from you, and what Man I meet first + That has but spirit to deserve a favour, + Let him bear any shape, the worse the better. + Shall kill you, and enjoy me; what I have said + About your foolish sickness, e're you have me + As you would have me, you shall swear, is certain, + And challenge any Man, that dares deny it; + And in all companies approve my actions, + And so farewell for this time. [_Ex._ Mar. + + _Petru._ Grief goe with thee, + If there be any witchcrafts, herbes, or potions, + Saying my Prayers backward, Fiends, or Fayries + That can again unlove me, I am made. [_Exit._ + + + _Scaena Secunda._ + + _Enter_ Byancha, _and_ Tranio. + + _Tra._ Mistress, you must do it. + + _By._ Are the Writings ready I told you of? + + _Tra._ Yes they are ready, but to what use I know not. + + _By._ Y'are an Ass, you must have all things constru'd. + + _Tra._ Yes, and pierc'd too, + Or I find little pleasure. + + _By._ Now you are knavish, + Goe too, fetch _Rowland_ hither presently, + Your Twenty [pound] lies bleeding else: she is married + Within these twelve hours, if we cross it not, + And see the Papers of one size. + + _Tra._ I have ye. + + _By._ And for disposing of 'em. + + _Tra._ If I fail you + Now I have found the way, use Marshal Law + And cut my head off with a hand Saw: + + _By._ Well Sir. + _Petronius_ and _Moroso_ I'll see sent for, + About your business; goe. + + _Tra._ I am gone. [_Ex._ Tra. + + _Enter_ Livia. + + _By._ Ho _Livia_. + + _Liv._ Who's that? + + _By._ A friend of yours, Lord how you look now, + As if you had lost a Carrack. + + _Liv._ O _Byancha_. + I am the most undone, unhappy Woman. + + _By._ Be quiet Wench, thou shalt be done, and done, + And done, and double done, or all shall split for't, + No more of these minc'd passions, they are mangy, + And ease thee of nothing, but a little Wind, + An Apple will do more: thou fear'st _Moroso_. + + _Liv._ Even as I fear the Gallowes. + + _By._ Keep thee there still. + And you love _Rowland_? say. + + _Liv._ If I say not, + I am sure I lye. + + _By._ What wouldst thou give that Woman, + In spight of all his anger, and thy fear, + And all thy Fathers policy, that could + Clap ye within these two nights quietly + Into a Bed together? + + _Liv._ How? + + _By._ Why fairly, + At half sword man and wife: now the red blood comes, + I marry now the matters chang'd. + + _Liv._ _Byancha_, + Methinks you should not mock me. + + _By._ Mock a pudding. + I speak good honest _English_, and good meaning. + + _Liv._ I should not be ungrateful to that Woman. + + _By._ I know thou would'st not, follow but my Councel, + And if thou hast him not, despite of fortune + Let me nev'r know a good night more; you must + Be very sick o'th instant. + + _Liv._ Well, what follows? + + _By._ And in that sickness send for all your friends, + Your Father, and your feaver old _Moroso_, + And _Rowland_ shall be there too. + + _Liv._ What of these? + + _By._ Do you not twitter yet? of this shall follow + That which shall make thy heart leap, and thy lips + Venture as many kisses, as the Merchants + Doe Dollars to the _East-Indies_: you shall know all, + But first walke in, and practise, pray be sick. + + _Liv._ I do believe you: and I am sick. + + _By._ Doe, + To bed then, come, I'll send away your Servants + Post for your Fool, and Father; and good fortune, + As we meane honesty, now strike an up-shot. [_Ex[e]unt._ + + + _Scaena Tertia._ + + _Enter_ Tranio, _and_ Rowland. + + _Tra._ Nay, on my conscience, I have lost my Money, + But that's all one: I'll never more perswade you, + I see you are resolute, and I commend you. + + _Row._ But did she send for me? + + _Tra._ You dare believe me. + + _Row._ I cannot tell, you have your wayes for profit + Allow'd you _Tranio_, as well as I + Have to avoid 'em [feare]. + + _Tra._ No, on my word, Sir, + I deale directly with you. + + _Enter Servant._ + + _Row._ How now fellow, + Whither Post you so fast? + + _Ser._ O sir my Master, + Pray did you see my Master? + + _Row._ Why your Master? + + _Ser._ Sir his Jewel. + + _Row._ With the gilded Button? + + _Serv._ My pretty Mistress _Livia_. + + _Row._ What of her? + + _Serv._ Is falen sick o'th suddain. + + _Row._ How o'th sullens? + + _Ser._ O'th suddain Sir, I say, very sick: + + _Row._ It seems she hath got the toothach with raw Apples. + + _Ser._ It seemes you have got the headach, fare you well Sir. + You did not see my Master? + + _Row._ Who told you so? + + _Tra._ No, no, he did not see him. + + _Row._ Farewell Blew-bottle. [_Ex. Servant._ + What should her sickness be? + + _Tra._ For you it may be. + + _Row._ Yes, when my braines are out, I may believe it, + Never before I am sure: Yet I may see her; + 'Twill be a point of honesty: + + _Tra._ It will so. + + _Row._ It may be not too: you would fain be fing'ring + This old sin-offring of two hundred, _Tranio_, + How daintily, and cunningly you drive me + Up like a Deer to'th toyle, yet I may leap it, + And what's the Woodman then? + + _Tra._ A loser by you. + Speak, Will you go or not? to me 'tis equal. + + _Row._ Come, What goes less? + + _Tra._ Nay, not a penny _Rowland_. + + _Row._ Shall I have liberty of conscience, + Which, by interpretation, is ten kisses? + Hang me if I affect: her: yet it may be, + This whorson manners will require a strugling, + Of two and twenty, or by'r-Lady thirty. + + _Tra._ By'r-Lady I'll require my wager then, + For if you kiss so often, and no kindness, + I have lost my speculation, I'll allow you-- + + _Row._ Speak like a Gamster now. + + _Tra._ It may be two. + + _Row._ Under a dozen _Tranio_, there's no setting, + You shall have forty shillings, winck at small faults. + Say I take twenty, come, by all that's honest + I do it but to vex her. + + _Tra._ I'll no by-blowes. + If you can love her, doe, if you can, hate her, + Or any else that loves you-- + + _Row._ Prethee _Tranio_. + + _Tra._ Why farewell twenty pound, 'twill not undoe me; + You have my resolution. + + _Row._ And your Money, + Which since you are so stubborn, if I forfeit, + Make me a _Jack o' Lent_, and break my shins + For untag'd Points and Compters: I'll goe with you, + But if thou gett'st a penny by the bargain; + A parting kiss is lawful? + + _Tra._ I allow it. + + _Row._ Knock out my brains with Apples; yet a bargain: + + _Tra._ I tell you, I'll no bargains; win, and wear it. + + _Row._ Thou art the strangest fellow. + + _Tra._ That's all one. + + _Row._ Along then, twenty pound more if thou dar'st, + I give her not a good word. + + _Tra._ Not a Penny. [_Exeunt._ + + + _Scaena Quarta._ + + _Enter_ Petruchio, Jaques, _and_ Pedro. + + _Petru._ Prethee, entreat her come, I will not trouble her + Above a word or two; ere I endure [_Exit_ Pedro. + This life and with a Woman, and a vow'd one + To all the mischiefs she can lay upon me, + I'll go to Plough [again], and eate Leeke Porridge; + Begging's a pleasure to't, not to be number'd: + No there be other Countries _Jaques_ for me and other people, yea, + and other women. + If I have need here's Money, there's your ware, + Which is faire dealing, and the Sun, they say, + Shines as warme there, as here, and till I have lost + Either my self, or her, I care not whether + Nor which first. + + _Jaq._ Will your worship hear me? + + _Petru._ And utterly outworne the memory + Of such a curse as this, none of my Nation + Shall ever know me more. + + _Jaq._ Out alas Sir. + What a strange way doe you run! + + _Petru._ Any way, + So I out-run this Rascal. + + _Jaq._ Me thinks now, + If your good worship could but have the patience. + + _Petru._ The patience, why the patience? + + _Jaq._ Why I'll tell you, + Could you but have the patience. + + _Petru._ Well the patience. + + _Jaq._ To laugh at all she do's, or when she railes, + To have a Drum beaten o'th top o'th house, + To give the neighbors warning of her Larme, + As I do when my Wife rebels. + + _Petru._ Thy Wife? + Thy Wife's a Pigeon to her, a meere slumber, + The dead of night's not stiller. + + _Jaq._ Nor an Iron Mill. + + _Petru._ But thy Wife is certain. + + _Jaq._ That's false Doctrine, + You never read of a certain Woman. + + _Petru._ Thou know'st her way. + + _Jaq._ I should doe, I am sure. + I have ridden it night, and day, this twenty year. + + _Petru._ But mine is such a drench of Balderdash, + Such a strange carded cunningness, the Rayne-bow + When she hangs bent in Heaven, sheds not her colours + Quicker, and more, than this deceitful Woman + + _Enter_ Ped. + + Weaves in her dye's of wickedness: what sayes she? + + _Ped._ Nay not a word sir, but she pointed to me, + As though she meant to follow; pray sir bear it + Ev'n as you may, I need not teach your worship, + The best men have their crosses, we are all mortal. + + _Petru._ What ailes the fellow? + + _Ped._ And no doubt she may Sir. + + _Petru._ What may she, or what do's she, or what is she? + Speak and be hang'd. + + _Ped._ She's mad Sir. + + _Petru._ Heaven continue it. + + _Ped._ Amen if't be his pleasure. + + _Petru._ How mad is she? + + _Ped._ As mad as heart can wish Sir: she has drest her self + (Saving your worships reverence) just i'th' cut + Of one of those that multiply i'th Suburbs + For single Money, and as durtily: + If any speak to her, first she whistles, + And then begins her compass with her fingers, + And points to what she would have. + + _Petru._ What new way's this? + + _Ped._ There came in Master _Sophocles_. + + _Petru._ And what + Did Master _Sophocles_ when he came in? + Get my Truncks ready, sirha, I'll be gone straight. + + _Ped._ He's here to tell you + She's horne mad _Jaques_. + + _Enter_ Sophocles. + + _Soph._ Call ye this a Woman? + + _Petru._ Yes sir, she is a Woman. + + _Soph._ Sir, I doubt it. + + _Petru._ I had thought you had made experience. + + _Soph._ Yes, I did so. + And almost with my life. + + _Petru._ You rid too fast, Sir. + + _Soph._ Pray be not mistaken: by this hand + Your wife's as chaste, and honest as a Virgin, + For any thing I know: 'tis true she gave me + A Ring. + + _Petru._ For rutting. + + _Soph._ You are much deceiv'd still, + Believe me, I never kist her since, and now + Coming in visitation, like a friend, + I think she is mad, Sir, suddainly she started, + And snatch'd the Ring away, and drew her knife out, + To what intent I know not. + + _Petru._ Is this certain? + + _Soph._ As I am here, Sir. + + _Petru._ I believe you honest. + And pray continue so. + + _Enter_ Maria. + + _Soph._ She comes. + + _Petru._ Now Damsel, + What will your beauty do if I forsake you? + Do you deal by signs, and tokens? as I ghess then, + You'll walk abroad, this Summer, and catch Captains, + Or hire a piece of holy ground i' th' Suburbs, + And keep a Nest of Nuns? + + _Soph._ Oh do not stir her! + You see in what a case she is? + + _Petru._ She is dogged, + And in a beastly case I am sure: I'll make her, + If she have any tongue, yet tattle. _Sophocles_, + Prethee observe this woman seriously, + And eye her well, and when thou hast done, but tell me + (For thou hast understanding) in what case + My sense was, when I chose this thing. + + _Soph._ I'll tell you + I have seen a sweeter-- + + _Petru._ An hundred times cry Oisters. + There's a poor Begger-wench about _Black-Fryers_ + Runs on her breech, may be an Empress to her. + + _Soph._ Nay, now you are too bitter. + + _Petr[u]._ Nev'r a whit Sir: + I'll tell thee woman; for now I have day to see thee, + And all my wits about me, and I speak + Not out of passion neither (leave your mumping) + I know you're well enough: Now would I give + A million but to vex her: when I chose thee + To make a Bedfellow, I took more trouble, + Than twenty Terms can come to, such a cause, + Of such a title, and so everlasting + That _Adams_ Genealogie may be ended + E'r any Law find thee: I took a Leprosie, + Nay worse, the plague, nay worse yet, a possession + And had the devil with thee, if not more: + And yet worse, was a beast, and like a beast + Had my reward, a Jade to fling my fortunes; + For who that had but reason to distinguish + The light from darkness, wine from water, hunger + From full satiety, and Fox from Fern-bush + That would have married thee? + + _Soph._ She is not so ill. + + _Petru._ She's worse than I dare think of: she's so lewd; + No Court is strong enough to bear her cause, + She hath neither manners, honesty, behaviour, + Wife-hood, nor woman-hood, nor any mortal + Can force me think she had a mother: no + I do believe her stedfastly, and know her + To be a Woman-wolfe by transmigration, + Her first forme was a Ferrets under-ground, + She kils the memories of men: not yet? + + _Soph._ Do you think she's sensible of this? + + _Petru._ I care not, + Be what she will: the pleasure I take in her, + Thus I blow off; the care I took to love her, + Like this point, I untie, and thus I loose it; + The husband I am to her, thus I sever; + My vanity farewel: yet, for you have been + So near me, as to bear the name of wife, + My unquench'd charity shall tell you thus much, + (Though you deserve it well) you shall not beg, + What I ordain'd your Joynture, honestly + You shall have setled on you: and half my house, + The other half shall be imploy'd in prayers, + (That meritorious charge I'll be at also + Yet to confirm you _Christian_) your apparel, + And what belongs to build up such a folly, + Keep I beseech you, it infects our uses, + And now I am for travel. + + _Mar._ Now I love you, + And now I see you are a man, I'll talke to you, + And I forget your bitterness. + + _Soph._ How now man? + + _Petru._ Oh _Pliny_, if thou wilt be ever famous + Make but this woman all thy wonders. + + _Mar._ Sure Sir + You have hit upon a happy course, a blessed, + And what will make you virtuous? + + _Petru._ She'll ship me. + + _Mar._ A way of understanding I long wish'd for, + And now 'tis come, take heed you fly not back Sir, + Methinks you look a new man to me now, + A man of excellence, and now I see + Some great design set in you: you may think now + (And so may most that know me) 'twere my part + Weakly to weep your loss, and to resist you, + Nay, hang about your neck, and like a dotard + Urge my strong tie upon you: but I love you, + And all the world shall know it, beyond woman; + And more prefer the honor of your Countrey, + Which chiefly you are born for, and may perfect, + The uses you may make of other Nations, + The ripening of your knowledge, conversation, + The full ability, and strength of judgement. + Than any private love, or wanton kisses. + Go worthy man, and bring home understanding. + + _Soph._ This were an excellent woman to breed School-men. + + _Mar._ For if the Merchant through unknown Seas plough + To get his wealth, then dear Sir, what must you + To gather wisdom? go, and go alone, + Only your noble mind for your companion, + And if a woman may win credit with you, + Go far, too far you cannot: still the farther + The more experience finds you: and go sparing, + One meal a week will serve you, and one sute, + Through all your travels: for you'll find it certain, + The poorer and the baser you appear, + The more you look through still. + + _Petru._ Dost hear her? + + _Soph._ Yes. + + _Petru._ What would this woman do if she were suffer'd, + Upon a new Religion? + + _Soph._ Make us Pagans, + I wonder that she writes not. + + _Mar._ Then when time, + And fulness of occasion have new made you, + And squar'd you from a Sot into a Signior, + Or nearer, from a Jade into a Courser; + Come home an aged man, as did _Ulysses_, + And I your glad _Penelope_. + + _Petru._ That must have + As many Lovers as I Languages. + And what she does with one i'th' day, i'th' night + Undoe it with another. + + _Mar._ Much that way, Sir; + For in your absence it must be my honor, + That, that must make me spoken of hereafter, + To have temptations, and not little ones + Daily and hourly offered me, and strongly, + Almost believed against me, to set off + The faith, and loyalty of her that loves you. + + _Petru._ What should I do? + + _Soph._ Why by my ---- I would travel, + Did not you mean so? + + _Petr._ Alas no, nothing less man: + I did it but to try, Sir, she's the Devil, + And now I find it, for she drives me; I must go: + Are my trunks down there, and my horses ready? + + _Mar._ Sir, for your house, and if you please to trust me + With that you leave behind. + + _Petru._ Bring down the money. + + _Mar._ As I am able, and to my poor fortunes, + I'll govern as a widow: I shall long + To hear of your well-doing, and your profit: + And when I hear not from you once a quarter, + I'll wish you in the _Indies,_ or _Cata[ya]_, + Those are the climes must make you. + + _Petru._ How's the wind? + She'll wish me out o'th' world anon. + + _Mar._ For _France_. + 'Tis very fair; get you aboard to night, Sir, + And loose no time, you know the tide staies no man, + I have cold meats ready for you. + + _Petru._ Fare thee well, + Thou hast fool'd me out o' th' Kingdom with a vengeance, + And thou canst fool me in again. + + _Mar._ Not I Sir, + I love you better, take your time, and pleasure. + I'll see you hors'd. + + _Petru._ I think thou wouldst see me hanged too, + Were I but half as willing. + + _Mar._ Any thing + That you think well of, I dare look upon. + + _Petru._ You'll bear me to the Lands end, _Sophocles_, + And other of my friends I hope. + + _Mar._ Nev'r doubt, Sir, + You cannot want companions for your good: + I am sure you'll kiss me e'r I go; I have business, + And stay long here I must not. + + _Petru._ Get thee going. + For if thou tarriest but another Dialogue + I'll kick thee to thy Chamber. + + _Mar._ Fare you well, Sir, + And bear your self, I do beseech you, once more, + Since you have undertaken doing wisely, + Manly, and worthily, 'tis for my credit, + And for those flying fames here of your follies, + Your gambols, and ill breeding of your youth, + For which I understand you take this travel, + Nothing should make me leave you else, I'll deal + So like a wife that loves your reputation, + And the most large addition of your credit, + That those shall die: if you want Limon-waters, + Or any thing to take the edge o' th' Sea off, + Pray speak, and be provided. + + _Petru._ Now the Devil, + That was your first good Master, showre his blessing + Upon ye all: Into whose custody-- + + _Mar._ I do commit your Reformation, + And so I leave you to your _Stilo novo_. [_Exit_ Maria. + + _Petru._ I will go: yet I will not: once more _Sophocles_ + I'll put her to the test. + + _Soph._ You had better go. + + _Petru._ I will go then: let's seek my Father out, + And all my friends, to see me fair aboard: + Then women, if there be a storm at Sea, + Worse than your tongues can make, and waves more broken, + Than your dissembling faiths are, let me feel + Nothing but tempests, till they crack my Keel. [_Exeunt._ + + + + + _Actus Quintus. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter_ Petronius, _and_ Byancha, _with four papers_. + + _By._ Now whether I deserve that blame you gave me, + Let all the world discern, Sir. + + _Petro._ If this motion, + (I mean this fair repentance of my Daughter) + Spring from your good perswasion, as it seems so, + I must confess I have spoke too boldly of you, + And I repent. + + _By._ The first touch was her own, + Taken no doubt from disobeying you, + The second I put to her, when I told her + How good, and gentle yet, with free contrition + Again you might be purchas'd: loving woman, + She heard me, and I thank her, thought me worthy + Observing in this point: yet all my counsel, + And comfort in this case, could not so heal her + But that grief got his share too, and she sick'ned. + + _Petro._ I am sorry she's so ill, yet glad her sickness + Has got so good a ground. + + _Enter_ Moroso. + + _By._ Here comes _Moroso_. + + _Petro._ Oh, you are very welcome, + Now you shall know your happiness. + + _Mor._ I am glad on't. + What makes this Lady here? + + _By._ A dish for you, Sir + You'll thank me for hereafter. + + _Petro._ True _Moroso_, + Go get you in, and see your Mistriss. + + _By._ She is sick, Sir, + But you may kiss her whole. + + _Mor._ How. + + _By._ Comfort her. + + _Mor._ Why am I sent for, Sir? + + _Petro._ Will you in, and see? + + _By._ May be she needs confession. + + _Mor._ By _St. Mary_, + She shall have absolution then, and pennance, + But not above her carriage. + + _Petro._ Get you in fool. [_Exit_ Mor. + + _Bya._ Here comes the other too. + + _Enter_ Rowland _and_ Tranio. + + _Petro._ Now _Tranio_. + Good ev'n to you too, and you are welcome. + + _Row._ Thank you. + + _Petro._ I have a certain Daughter. + + _Row._ Would you had, Sir. + + _Petro._ No doubt you know her well. + + _Row._ Nor never shall, Sir. + She is a woman, and the waies unto her + Are like the finding of a certain path + After a deep fall'n Snow. + + _Petro._ Well, that's by th' by still. + This Daughter that I tell you of, is fall'n + A little crop sick, with the dangerous surfeit + She took of your affection. + + _Row._ Mine Sir? + + _Petro._ Yes Sir. + Or rather, as it seems, repenting. + And there she lies within, debating on't. + + _Row._ Well Sir. + + _Petro._ I think 'twere well you would see her. + + _Row._ If you please, Sir; + I am not squeamish of my visitation. + + _Petron._ But, this I'll tell you, she is alter'd much, + You'll find her now another _Livia_. + + _Row._ I have enough o' th' old, Sir. + + _Petro._ No more fool, + To look gay babies in your eyes young _Rowland_, + And hang about your pretty neck. + + _Row._ I am glad on't, + And thank my Fates I have scap'd such execution. + + _Petron._ And buss you till you blush again. + + _Row._ That's hard, Sir; + She must kiss shamefully e're I blush at it, + I never was so boyish; well, what follows? + + _Petro._ She's mine now, as I please to settle her + At my command, and where I please to plant her: + Only she would take a kind of farewel of you, + And give you back a wandring vow or two, + You left in pawn; and two or three slight oaths + She lent you too, she looks for. + + _Row._ She shall have 'em + With all my heart, Sir, and if you like it better, + A free release in writing. + + _Petro._ That's the matter, + And you from her, [you] shall have another _Rowland_, + And then turn tail to tail, and peace be with you. + + _Row._ So be it: Your twenty pound sweats _Tranio_. + + _Tra._ 'Twill not undoe me _Rowland_, do your worst. + + _Row._ Come, shall we see her, Sir? + + _Bya._ What e'er she saies + You must bear manly _Rowland_, for her sickness + Has made her somewhat [teatish.] + + _Row._ Let her talk + Till her tongue ake, I care not: by this hand + Thou hast a handsome face wench, and a body + Daintily mounted; now do I feel an hundred + Running directly from me, as I pist it. + + _Enter_ Livia _discovered abed_, _and_ Moroso _by her_. + + _Bya._ Pray draw 'em softly, the least hurry, Sir, + Puts her to much impatience. + + _Petro._ How is't daughter? + + _Liv._ Oh very sick, very sick, yet somewhat + Better I hope; a little lightsomer, + Because this good man has forgiven me; + Pray set me higher; oh my head: + + _Bya._ Well done wench. + + _Liv._ Father, and all good people that shall hear me, + I have abus'd this man perniciously; was never old man humbled so; + I have scorn'd him, and call'd him nasty names, + I have spit at him, + Flung Candles ends in's beard, and call'd him harrow, + That must be drawn to all he does: contemn'd him, + For methought then, he was a beastly fellow. + (Oh [God] my side) a very beastly fellow: + And gave it out, his Cassock was a Barge-cloth, + Pawn'd to his predecessor by a Sculler, + The man yet living: I gave him purging comfits + At a great Christning once, + That spoil'd his Chamblet breeches; and one night + I strew'd the stairs with pease, as he past down; + And the good Gentleman (woe worth me for't) + Ev'n with this reverend head, this head of wisdom, + Told two and twenty stairs, good and true; + Mist not a step, and as we say, _verbatim_ + Fell to the bottom, broke his casting Bottle, + Lost a fair Toad-stone, of some eighteen shillings, + Jumbled his Joynts together, had two stools, + And was translated. All this villany + Did I: I _Livia_, I alone, untaught. + + _Mor._ And I unask'd, forgive it. + + _Liv._ Where's _Byancha_? + + _Bya._ Here Cosin. + + _Liv._ Give me drink. + + _Bya._ There. + + _Liv._ Who's that? + + _Mor._ _Rowland._ + + _Liv._ Oh my dissembler, you and I must part. + Come nearer, Sir. + + _Row._ I am sorry for your sickness. + + _Liv._ Be sorry for your self, Sir, you have wrong'd me, + But I forgive you; are the Papers ready? + + _Bya._ I have 'em here: wilt please you view 'em? + + _Petro._ Yes. + + _Liv._ Shew 'em the young man too, I know he's willing + To shift his sails too: 'tis for his more advancement; + Alas, we might have begger'd one another; + We are young both, and a world of children + Might have been left behind to curse our follies: + We had been undone _Byancha_, had we married, + Undone for ever, I confess I lov'd him, + I care not who shall know it, most intirely; + And once, upon my conscience, he lov'd me; + But farewel that, we must be wiser, cosin, + Love must not leave us to the world: have you done? + + _Row._ Yes, and am ready to subscribe. + + _Liv._ Pray stay then: + Give me the papers, and let me peruse 'em, + And so much time, as may afford a tear + At our last parting. + + _Bya._ Pray retire, and leave her, + I'll call ye presently. + + _Petro._ Come Gentlemen, the showre must fall. + + _Row._ Would I had never seen her. [_Exeunt._ + + _Bya._ Thou hast done bravely wench. + + _Liv._ Pray Heaven it prove so. + + _Bya._ There are the other papers: when they come + Begin you first, and let the rest subscribe + Hard by your side; give 'em as little light + As Drapers do their Wares. + + _Liv._ Didst mark _Moroso_, + In what an agony he was, and how he cry'd most + When I abus'd him most? + + _Bya._ That was but reason. + + _Liv._ Oh what a stinking thief is this? + Though I was but to counterfeit, he made me + Directly sick indeed. _Thames-street_ to him + Is a meer Pomander. + + _Bya._ Let him be hang'd. + + _Liv._ _Amen._ + + _Bya._ And lie you still; + And once more to your business. + + _Liv._ Call 'em in. + Now if there be a power that pities Lovers, + Help now, and hear my prayers. + + _Enter_ Petronius, Rowland, Tranio, Moroso. + + _Petro._ Is she ready? + + _Bya._ She has done her lamentations: pray go to her. + + _Liv._ _Rowland_, come near me, and before you seal, + Give me your hand: take it again; now kiss me. + This is the last acquaintance we must have; + I wish you ever happy: there's the paper. + + _Row._ Pray stay a little. + + _Petro._ Let me never live more + But I do begin to pity this young fellow; + How heartily he weeps! + + _Bya._ There's Pen and Ink, Sir. + + _Liv._ Ev'n here I pray you. 'Tis a little _Emblem_ + How near you have been to me. + + _Row._ There. + + _Bya._ Your hands too, + As witnesses. + + _Petro._ By any means + To th' Book son. + + _Mor._ With all my heart. + + _Bya._ You must deliver it. + + _Row._ There _Livia_, and a better love light on thee, + I can no more. + + _Bya._ To this you must be witness too. + + _Petro._ We will. + + _Bya._ Do you deliver it now. + + _Liv._ Pray set me up; + There _Rowland_, all thy old love back: and may + A new to come exceed mine, and be happy. + I must no more. + + _Row._ Farewel: + + _Liv._ A long farewel. [_Exit_ Row. + + _Bya._ Leave her by any means, till this wild passion + Be off her head: draw all the Curtains close, + A day hence you may see her, 'twill be better, + She is now for little company. + + _Petro._ Pray tend her. + I must to horse straight, you must needs along too, + To see my son aboard: were but his wife + As fit for pity, as this wench, I were happy. + + _Bya._ Time must do that too: fare ye well: to morrow + You shall receive a wife to quit your sorrow. [_Exeunt._ + + + _Scaena Secunda._ + + _Enter_ Jaques, Pedro, _and Porters, with Chest and Hampers_. + + _Jaq._ Bring 'em away Sirs. + + _Ped._ Must the great Trunks go too? + + _Jaq._ Yes, and the Hampers; nay, be speedy Masters; + He'll be at Sea before us else. + + _Ped._ Oh _Jaques_, + What a most blessed turn hast thou! + + _Jaq._ I hope so. + + _Ped._ To have the Sea between thee and this woman, + Nothing can drown her tongue but a storm. + + _Jaq._ By your leave, + We'll get us up to _Paris_ with all speed; + For on my soul, as far as _Amiens_ + She'll carry blank, away to _Lyon-key_ + And ship 'em presently, we'll follow ye. + + _Ped._ Now could I wish her in that Trunk: + + _Jaq._ God shield man, + I had rather have a Bear in't. + + _Ped._Yes, I'll tell ye: + For in the passage, if a Tempest take ye, + As many doe, and you lie beating for it, + Then, if it pleas'd the fates, I would have the Master, + Out of a powerful providence, to cry, + Lighten the ship of all hands, or we perish; + Then this for one, as best spar'd, should by all means, + Over-board presently. + + _Jaq._ O' that condition, + So we were certain to be rid of her, + I would wish her with us, but believe me _Pedro_, + She would spoil the fishing on this coast for ever. + For none would keep her company but Dog-fish, + As currish as her self; or Porpisces, + Made to all fatal uses: The two Fish-streets + Were she but once arriv'd amongst the Whitings, + Would sing a woful _misereri Pedro_, + And mourn in Poor _John_, till her memory + Were cast o' shore agen, with a strong Sea-breach: + She would make god _Neptune_, and his Fire-fork, + And all his demi-gods, and goddesses, + As weary of the _Flemmish Channel_, _Pedro_, + As ever boy was of the School, 'tis certain, + If she but meet him fair, and were well angred, + She would break his god-head. + + _Ped._ Oh her tongue, her tongue. + + _Jaq._ Rather her many tongues. + + _Ped._ Or rather strange tongues. + + _Jaq._ Her lying tongue. + + _Ped._ Her lisping tongue. + + _Jaq._ Her long tongue. + + _Ped._ Her lawless tongue. + + _Jaq._ Her loud tongue. + + _Ped._ And her liquorish-- + + _Jaq._ Many other tongues, and many stranger tongues + Than ever _Babel_ had to tell his ruines, + Were Women rais'd withal; but never a true one. + + _Enter_ Sophocles. + + _Soph._ Home with your stuff agen, the journey's ended. + + _Jaq._ What does your worship mean? + + _Soph._ Your Master, Oh _Petruchio_, oh poor fellows. + + _Ped._ Oh _Jaques, Jaques_. + + _Soph._ Oh your Master's dead, + His body coming back, his wife, his devil; + The grief of ---- her. + + _Jaq._ Has kill'd him? + + _Soph._ Kill'd him, kill'd him. + + _Ped._ Is there no Law to hang her. + + _Soph._ Get ye in, + And let her know her misery, I dare not + For fear impatience seize me, see her more, + I must away agen: Bid her for wife-hood, + For honesty, if she have any in her, + Even to avoid the shame that follows her. + Cry if she can, your weeping cannot mend it. + The body will be here within this hour, so tell her; + And all his friends to curse her. Farewel fellows. [_Exit_ Soph. + + _Ped._ Oh _Jaques, Jaques_. + + _Jaq._ Oh my worthy Master. + + _Ped._ Oh my most beastly Mistriss, hang her. + + _Jaq._ Split her. + + _Ped._ Drown her directly. + + _Jaq._ Starve her. + + _Ped._ Stink upon her. + + _Jaq._ Stone her to death: may all she eat be Eggs. + Till she run kicking mad for men. + + _Ped._ And he, + That man, that gives her remedy, pray Heav'n + He may ev'n _ipso facto_, lose his [longings.] + + _Jaq._ Let's go discharge our selves, and he that serves her, + Or speaks a good word of her from this hour, + A Sedgly curse light on him, which is, _Pedro_; + The Fiend ride through him booted, and spurr'd, with a Sythe at's + back. [_Exeunt._ + + + _Scaena Tertia._ + + _Enter_ Rowland, _and_ Tranio _stealing behind him_. + + _Row._ What a dull ass was I to let her go thus! + Upon my life she loves me still: well Paper, + Thou only monument of what I have had, + Thou all the love now left me, and now lost, + Let me yet kiss her hand, yet take my leave + Of what I must leave ever: Farewel _Livia_. + Oh bitter words, I'll read ye once again, + And then for ever study to forget ye. + How's this? let me look better on't: A Contract? + --A Contract, seal'd, and ratified, + Her Fathers hand set to it, and _Moroso_'s: + I do not dream sure, let me read again, + The same still, 'tis a Contract. + + _Tra._ 'Tis so _Rowland_; + And by the virtue of the same, you pay me + An hundred pound to morrow. + + _Row._ Art sure _Tranio_, + We are both alive now? + + _Tra._ Wonder not, ye have lost. + + _Row._ If this be true, I grant it. + + _Tra._ 'Tis most certain, + There's a Ring for you too, you know it. + + _Row._ Yes. + + _Tra._ When shall I have my money? + + _Row._ Stay ye, stay ye, + When shall I marry her? + + _Tra._ To night. + + _Row._ Take heed now + You do not trifle me; if you do, + You'll find more payment, than your money comes to: + Come swear; I know I am a man, and find + I may deceive my self: swear faithfully, + Swear me directly, am I _Rowland_? + + _Tra._ Yes. + + _Row._ Am I awake? + + _Tra._ Ye are. + + _Row._ Am I in health? + + _Tra._ As far as I conceive. + + _Row._ Was I with _Livia_? + + _Tra._ You were, and had this Contract. + + _Row._ And shall I enjoy her? + + _Tra._ Yes, if ye dare. + + _Row._ Swear to all these. + + _Tra._ I will. + + _Row._ As thou art honest, as them hast a conscience, + As that may wring thee if thou liest; all these + To be no vision, but a truth, and serious. + + _Tra._ Then by my honesty, and faith, and conscience; + All this is certain. + + _Row._ Let's remove our places. + Swear it again. + + _Tra._ By ---- 'tis true. + + _Row._ I have lost then, and Heaven knows I am glad on't. + Let's goe, and tell me all, and tell me how, + For yet I am a Pagan in it. + + _Tra._ I have a Priest too, + And all shall come as even as two Testers. [_Exeunt._ + + + _Scaena Quarta._ + + _Enter_ Petronius, Sophocles, Moroso, _and_ Petruchio _born + in a Coffin_. + + _Petro._ Set down the body, and one call her out. + + _Enter_ Maria _in black, and_ Jaques. + + You are welcome to the last cast of your fortunes; + There lies your Husband; there, your loving Husband, + There he that was _Petruchio_, too good for ye; + Your stubborn and unworthy way has kill'd him + E'er he could reach the Sea; if ye can weep, + Now ye have cause begin, and after death + Doe something yet to th' world, to think ye honest. + So many tears had say'd him, shed in time; + And as they are (so a good mind go with 'em) + Yet they may move compassion. + + _Mar._ Pray ye all hear me, + And judge me as I am, not as you covet, + For that would make me yet more miserable: + 'Tis true, I have cause to grieve, and mighty cause; + And truly and unfeinedly I weep it. + + _Soph._ I see there's some good nature yet left in her. + + _Mar._ But what's the cause? mistake me not, not this man, + As he is dead, I weep for; Heaven defend it, + I never was so childish: but his life, + His poor unmanly, wretched, foolish life, + Is that my full eyes pity, there's my mourning. + + _Petro._ Dost thou not shame? + + _Mar._ I doe, and even to water, + To think what this man was, to think how simple, + How far below a man, how far from reason, + From common understanding, and all Gentry, + While he was living here he walk'd amongst us. + He had a happy turn he dyed; I'll tell ye, + These are the wants I weep for, not his person: + The memory of this man, had he liv'd + But two years longer, had begot more follies, + Than wealthy Autumn Flies. But let him rest, + He was a fool, and farewel he; not pitied, + I mean in way of life, or action + By any understanding man that's honest; + But only in's posterity, which I, + Out of the fear his ruines might out-live him, + In some bad issue, like a careful woman, + Like one indeed, born only to preserve him, + Deny'd him means to raise. + + _Petru._ Unbutton me, + --I die indeed else! Oh _Maria_, + Oh my unhappiness, my misery. + + _Petro._ Goe to him whore; ---- if he perish, + I'll see thee hang'd my self. + + _Petru._ Why, why _Maria_? + + _Mar._ I have done my worst, and have my end, forgive me; + From this hour make me what you please: I have tam'd ye, + And now am vow'd your servant: Look not strangely, + Nor fear what I say to you. Dare you kiss me? + Thus I begin my new love. + + _Petru._ Once again? + + _Mar._ With all my heart. + + _Petru._ Once again _Maria_, + Oh Gentlemen, I know not where I am. + + _Soph._ Get ye to bed then: there you'll quickly know Sir. + + _Petru._ Never no more your old tricks? + + _Mar._ Never Sir. + + _Petru._ You shall not need, for as I have a faith + No cause shall give occasion. + + _Mar._ As I am honest, + And as I am a maid yet, all my life + From this hour, since ye make so free profession, + I dedicate in service to your pleasure. + + _Soph._ I marry, this goes roundly off. + + _Petru._ Goe _Jaques_, + Get all the best meat may be bought for money, + And let the hogsheads blood, I am born again: + Well little _England_, when I see a Husband + Of any other Nation, stern or jealous, + I'll wish him but a woman of thy breeding; + And if he have not butter to his bread, + Till his teeth bleed, I'll never trust my travel. + + _Enter_ Rowland, Livia, Byancha, _and_ Tranio. + + _Petro._ What have we here? + + _Row._ Another Morris, Sir. + That you must pipe too. + + _Tra._ A poor married couple + Desire an offering, Sir. + + _Bya._ Never frown at it, + You cannot mend it now: there's your own hand; + And yours _Moroso_, to confirm the bargain. + + _Petron._ My hand? + + _Mor._ Or mine? + + _Bya._ You'll find it so. + + _Petro._ A trick, + By ---- a trick. + + _Bya._ Yes Sir, we trickt ye. + + _Liv._ Father. + + _P[e]tro._ Hast thou lain with him? speak! + + _Liv._ Yes truly Sir. + + _Petro._ And hast thou done the deed, boy? + + _Row._ I have [done], Sir, + That, that will serve the turn, I think. + + _Petru._ A match then, + I'll be the maker up of this: _Moroso_, + There's now no remedy you see, be willing; + [F]or be, or be not, he must have the wench. + + _Mor._ Since I am over-reach'd, let's in to dinner, + And if I can, I'll drink't away. + + _Tra._ That's well said. + + _Petro._ Well sirrah, you have plaid a trick, look to't, + And let me be a Grandsire within's twelve-month, + Or by this hand, I'll curtail half your fortunes. + + _Row._ There shall not want my labour, Sir: your money; + Here's one has undertaken. + + _Tra._ Well, I'll trust her, + And glad I have so good a pawn. + + _Row._ I'll watch ye. + + _Petru._ Let's in, and drink of all hands, and be jovial: + I have my Colt again, and now she carries; + And Gentlemen, whoever marries next, + Let him be sure he keep him to his Text. [_Exeunt._ + + + + + EPILOGUE. + + + _The_ Tamer_'s_ tam'd, _but so, as nor the men + Can find one just cause to complain of, when + They fitly do consider in their lives, + They should not reign as Tyrants o'er their wives. + Nor can the Women from this president + Insult, or triumph; it being aptly meant, + To teach both Sexes due equality; + And as they stand bound, to love mutually. + If this effect arising from a cause + Well laid, and grounded, may deserve applause, + We something more than hope, our honest ends + Will keep the Men, and Women too, our friends._ + + + + + THE + ISLAND PRINCESS: + A Tragi-Comedy. + + + The Persons represented in the Play. + + King of _Sidore, an Island_. + King of _Bakam_, } _Suitors to the Princess Quisara_. + King of _Siana_, } + Governor of _Terna, an Island_. _An ill man._ + Ruy Dias, _a Captain of_ Portugal, _also suitor to the Prin_. + Piniero, _Nephew to_ Ruy Dias, _a merry Captain_. + Christophero, } _Soldiers and Friends to_ Piniero. + Pedro, } + Armusia, _a noble daring_ Portugueze, _in love with the Princess_. + Soza, } _companions to_ Armusia, _and his valiant followers_. + Emanuel, } + Keeper. + Moors. + Guard. + Captain. + Citizens. + Townsmen. + + + WOMEN. + + Quisara, _the Island Princess, Sister to the King of_ Sidore. + Quisa[n]a, _Aunt to the Princess_. + Panura, _Waiting-woman to the Princess_ Quisara. + Citizens _wives_. + + + The Scene India. + + + The Principal Actors were + + _John Lowin_, + _John Underwood_, + _William Eglestone_, + _Rich. Sharpe_, + _Joseph Tailor_, + _Robert Benfield_, + _George Birch_, + _Tho. Polard_. + + + + + _Actus Primus. Scaena Prima._ + + + _A Bell Rings._ + + _Enter_ Pymero, Christophero, _and_ Pedro. + + _Pymero._ Open the Ports, and see the Watch reliev'd, + And let the guards be careful of their business, + Their vigilant eyes fixt on these Islanders, + They are false and desperate people, when they find + The least occasion open to encouragement, + Cruel, and crafty souls, believe me Gentlemen, + Their late attempt, which is too fresh amongst us, + In which, against all arms and honesty, + The Governor of _Ternata_ made surprize + Of our Confederate, the King of _Tidore_, + As for his recreation he was rowing + Between both Lands, bids us be wise and circumspect. + + _Chr._ It was a mischief suddenly imagin'd, + And as soon done; that Governor's a fierce knave, + Unfaithful as he is fierce too, there's no trusting; + But I wonder much, how such poor and base pleasures, + As tugging at an Oar, or skill in Steerage, + Should become Princes. + + _Py._ Base breedings, love base pleasure; + They take as much delight in a _Baratto_, + A little scurvy boat to row her ti[th]ly, + And have the Art to turn and wind her nimbly, + Think it as noble too, though it be slavish, + And a dull labour that declines a Gentleman: + As we _Portugals_, or the _Spaniards_ do in riding, + In managing a great horse, which is princely: + The _French_ in Courtship, or the dancing _English_, + In carrying a fair presence. + + _Ped._ He was strangely taken; + But where no faith is, there's no trust: he has paid for't + His Sister yet the fair and great _Quisara_, + Has shew'd a noble mind, and much love in't + To her afflicted brother, and the nobler still it appears, + And seasons of more tenderness, because his ruin stiles her absolute + And his imprisonment adds to her profit. + Feeling all this, which makes all men admire her, + The warm beams of this fortune that fall on her, + Yet has she made divers and noble Treaties, + And propositions for her brothers freedom, + If wealth or honor-- + + _Py._ Peace, peace, you are fool'd, Sir; + Things of these natures have strange outsides _Pedro_, + And cunning shadows, set 'em far from us, + Draw 'em but near, they are gross, and they abuse us; + They that observe her close, shall find her nature, + Which I doubt mainly will not prove so excellent; + She is a Princess, and she must be fair, + That's the prerogative of being Royal: + Let her want eyes and nose, she must be beauteous, + And she must know it too, and the use of it, + And people must believe it, they are damn'd else: + Why, all our neighbor Princes are mad for her. + + _Chr._ Is she not fair then? + + _Py._ But her hopes are fairer, + And there's a haughty Master, the King of _Bakan_, + That lofty Sir, that speaks far more, and louder + In his own commendations, than a Cannon: + He is strucken dumb with her. + + _Ped._ Beshrew me she is a sweet one. + + _Py._ And there's that hopeful man of _Syana_, + That sprightly fellow, he that's wise and temperate, + He is a Lover too. + + _Chr._ Wou'd I were worth her looking + For; by my life I hold her a compleat one, + The very Sun, I think affects her sweetness, + And dares not, as he does to all else, dye it + Into his tauny Livery. + + _Py._ She dares not see him, + But keeps her self at distance from his kisses, + And [weares] her complexion in a Case; let him but like it + A week, or two, or three, she would look like a Lion; + But the main sport on't is, or rather wonder + The Governor of _Ternata_, her mortal enemy, + He that has catcht her brother King, is struck too, + And is arriv'd under safe conduct also, + And hostages of worth delivered for him; + And he brought a Letter from his prisoner, + Whether compell'd, or willingly delivered + From the poor King, or what else dare be in't. + + _Chr._ So it be honourable, any thing, 'tis all one + For I dare think she'll do the best. + + _Py._ 'Tis certain + He has admittance, and sollicites hourly, + Now if he have the trick-- + + _Ped._ What trick? + + _Py._ The true one, + To take her too, if he be but skill'd in Bat-fowling, + And lime his bush right. + + _Chr._ I'll be hang'd when that hits, + For 'tis not a compell'd, or forc'd affection + That must take her, I guess her stout and virtuous, + But where's your Uncle, Sir, our valiant Captain, + The brave _Ruy Dias_ all this while? + + _Py._ I marry. + He is amongst 'em too. + + _Ped._ A Lover. + + _Py._ Nay, + I know not that, but [sure] he stands in favour, + Or would stand stifly, he is no _Portugal_ else. + + _Chr._ The voice says in good favour, in the list too + Of the privy wooers, how cunningly of late + I have observ'd him, and how privately + He has stolen at all hours from us, and how readily + He has feign'd a business to bid the Fort farewel + For five or six days, or a month together, + Sure there is something-- + + _Py._ Yes, yes, there is a thing in't, + A thing would make the best on's all dance after it; + A dainty thing; Lord how this Uncle of mine + Has read to me, and rated me for wenching. + And told me in what desperate case 'twould leave me, + And how 'twould stew my bones. + + _Ped._ You car'd not for it. + + _Py._ I'faith not much, I ventur'd on still easily, + And took my chance, danger is a Soldiers honor; + But that this man, this herb of Grace, _Ruy Dias_, + This father of our faculties should slip thus, + For sure he is a ferriting, that he + That would drink nothing, to depress the spirit, + But milk and water, eat nothing but thin air + To make his bloud obedient, that his youth, + In spight of all his temperance, should tickle, + And have a love mange on him. + + _Chr._ 'Tis in him, Sir, + But honourable courtship, and becomes his rank too. + + _Py._ In me 'twere abominable Leachery, or would be, + For when our thoughts are on't, and miss their level, + We must hit something. + + _Ped._ Well, he's a noble Gentleman, + And if he be a suitor, may he speed in't. + + _Py._ Let him alone, our family ne'r fail'd yet. + + _Chr._ Our mad Lieutenant still, merry _Pyniero_, + Thus wou'd he do, if the Surgeon were searching of him. + + _Ped._ Especially if a warm wench had shot him. + + _Py._ But hark _Christophero_; come hither _Pedro_; + When saw you our brave Countrey-man _Armusia_? + He that's arriv'd here lately, and his gallants? + A goodly fellow, and a brave companion + Methinks he is, and no doubt, truly valiant, + For he that dares come hither, dares fight any where. + + _Chr._ I saw him not of late, a sober Gentleman + I am sure he is, and no doubt bravely sprung, + And promises much nobleness. + + _Py._ I love him, + And by my troth wou'd fain be inward with him; + Pray let's go seek him. + + _Ped._ We'll attend you Sir. + + _Py._ By that time we shall hear the burst of business. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Ruy Dias, Quisara, Quisana; _and_ Panura. + + _Quisar._ Aunt, I much thank you for your courtesie, + And the fair liberty you still allow me, + Both of your house and service, though I be + A Princess, and by that Prerogative stand free + From the poor malice of opinion, + And no ways bound to render up my actions, + Because no power above me can examine me; + Yet my dear brother being still a prisoner, + And many wandring eyes upon my ways, + Being left alone a Sea-mark, it behoves me + To use a little caution, and be circumspect. + + _Quisan._ You're wise and noble Lady. + + _Quisar._ Often Aunt + I resort hither, and privately to see you, + It may be to converse with some I favour; + I wou'd not have it known as oft, nor constru'd, + It stands not with my care. + + _Quisan._ You speak most fairly, + For even our pure devotions are examin'd. + + _Quisar._ So mad are mens minds now. + + _Ruy._ Or rather monstrous; + They are thick dreams, bred in fogs that know no fairness. + + _Quisan._ Madam, the House is yours, I am yours, pray use me, + And at your service all I have lies prostrate; + My care shall ever be to yield ye honor, + And when your fame falls here, 'tis my fault Lady; + A poor and simple banquet I have provided, + Which if you please to honor with your presence-- + + _Quisar._ I thank ye Aunt, I shall be with you instantly, + A few words with this Gentleman. + + _Quisan._ I'll leave ye, + And when you please retire, I'll wait upon you. [_Exeunt Quis. & Pan._ + + _Quisar._ Why, how now Captain, what afraid to speak to me? + A man of Armes, and danted with a Lady? + Commanders have the power to parle with Princes. + + _Ruy._ Madam, the favors you have still showr'd on me, + Which are so high above my means of merit, + So infinite, that nought can value 'em + But their own goodness, no eyes look up to 'em + But those that are of equal light, and lustre, + Strike me thus mute, you are my royal Mistriss, + And all my services that aime at honor, + Take life from you, the Saint of my devotions; + Pardon my wish, it is a fair ambition, + And well becomes the Man that honors you; + I wou'd I were of worth, of something near you, + Of such a royal piece, a King I wou'd be, + A mighty King that might command affection, + And bring a youth upon me might bewitch ye, + And you a sweet sould Christian. + + _Quisar._ Now you talk Sir; + You _Portugals_, though you be rugged Soldiers, + Yet when you list to flatter, you are plain Courtiers; + And could you wish me _Christian_, brave _Ruy Dias_? + + _Ruy._ At all the danger of my life great Lady, + At all my hopes, at all-- + + _Quisar._ Pray ye stay a little, + To what end runs your wish? + + _Ruy._ O glorious Lady, + That I might--but I dare not speak. + + _Quisar._ I dare then, + That you might hope to marry me; nay blush not, + An honorable end needs no excuse; + And would you love me then? + + _Ruy._ My soul not dearer. + + _Quisar._ Do some brave thing that may entice me that way, + Some thing of such a meritorious goodness, + Of such an unmatcht nobleness, that I may know + You have a power beyond ours that preserves you: + 'Tis not the person, nor the royal title, + Nor wealth, nor glory, that I look upon, + That inward man I love that's lin'd with virtue, + That well deserving soul works out a favor; + I have many Princes suiters, many great ones, + Yet above these I love you, you are valiant, + An active man, able to build a fortune; + I do not say I dote, nor meane to marry, + Only the hope is, something may be done, + That may compel my faith, and ask my freedome, + And leave opinion fair. + + _Ruy._ Command dear Lady, + And let the danger be as deep as Hell, + As direful to attempt-- + + _Quisar._ Y'are too sudden, + I must be rul'd by you, find out a fortune + Wisely, and hansomely, examine time, + And court occasion that she may be ready; + A thousand uses for your forward spirit + Ye may find daily, be sure ye take a good one, + A brave and worthy one that may advance ye, + Forc'd smiles reward poor dangers; you are a Soldier, + I wou'd not talke so else, and I love a Soldier, + And that that speaks him true, and great, his valor; + Yet for all these which are but Womens follies, + You may do what you please, I shall still know ye, + And though ye weare no Sword. + + _Ru._ Excellent Lady, + When I grow so cold, and disgrace my Nation, + That from their hardy nurses suck adventures, + 'Twere fit I wore a Tombstone; you have read to me + The story of your favor, if I mistake it, + Or grow a truant in the study of it, + A great correction Lady-- + + _Quisar._ Let's toth' banquet, + And have some merrier talk, and then to Court, + Where I give audience to my general Suiters; + Pray heaven my womans wit hold; there brave Captain, + You may perchance meet something that may startle ye; + I'll say no more, come be not sad-- + I love ye. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Pyniero, Armusia, Soza, Christophero, _and_ Emanuel. + + _Py._ You are wellcome Gentlemen, most worthy welcom, + And know there's nothing in our power may serve ye, + But you may freely challenge. + + _Arm._ Sir we thank ye, + And rest your servants too. + + _Py._ Ye are worthy _Portugals_, + You shew the bravery of your minds and spirits; + The nature of our Country too, that brings forth + Stirring, unwearied soules to seek adventures; + Minds never satisfied with search of honor + Where time is, and the Sun gives light, brave Countrymen, + Our names are known, new worlds disclose their riches, + Their beauties, and their prides to our embraces; + And we the first of Nations find these wonders. + + _Arm._ These noble thoughts, Sir, have intic'd us forward, + And minds unapt for ease to see these miracles, + In which we find report a poor relater; + We are arriv'd among the blessed Islands, + Where every wind that rises blows perfumes, + And every breath of air is like an Incence: + The treasure of the Sun dwells here, each Tree + As if it envied the old _Paradice_, + Strives to bring forth immortal fruit; the Spices + Renewing nature, though not deifying, + And when that falls by time, scorning the earth, + The sullen earth should taint or suck their beauties, + But as we dreamt, for ever so preserve us: + Nothing we see, but breeds an admiration; + The very rivers as we float along, + Throw up their pearls, and curle their heads to court us; + The bowels of the earth swell with the births + Of thousand unknown gemms, and thousand riches; + Nothing that bears a life, but brings a treasure; + The people they shew brave too, civil manner'd, + Proportioned like the Masters of great minds, + The Women which I wonder at-- + + _Py._ Ye speak well. + + _Ar._ Of delicate aspects, fair, clearly beauteous, + And to that admiration, sweet and courteous. + + _Py._ And is not that a good thing? brave _Armusia_ + You never saw the Court before? + + _Ar._ No certain, + But that I see a wonder too, all excellent, + The Government exact. + + _Chr._ Ye shall see anon, + That that will make ye start indeed, such beauties, + Such riches, and such form. + + _Enter_ Bakam, Syana, Governor. + + _Soz._ We are fire already; + The wealthy Magazine of nature sure + Inhabits here. + + _Arm._ These sure are all _Ilanders_. + + _Py._ Yes, and great Princes too, and lusty lovers. + + _Ar._ They are goodly persons; What might he be Signior + That bears so proud a state? + + _Py._ King of _Bakam_, + A fellow that farts terror. + + _Em._ He looks highly, + Sure he was begot o'th' top of a Steeple. + + _Chr._ It may well be, + For you shall hear him ring anon. + + _Py._ That is _Syana_, + And a brave temper'd fellow, and more valiant. + + _Soz._ What rugged face is that? + + _Py._ That's the great Governor, + The man surpriz'd our Friend, I told ye of him. + + _Ar._ 'Has dangerous eyes. + + _Py._ A perilous Thief, and subtile. + + _Chr._ And to that subtilty a heart of Iron. + + _Py._ Yet the young Lady makes it melt. + + _Ar._ They start all, + And thunder in the eyes. + + _Ba._ Away ye poor ones, + A[m] I in competition with such bubbles? + My virtue, and my name rank'd with such trifles? + + _Sy._ Ye speak loud. + + _Ba._ Young-man, I will speak louder; + Can any man but I deserve her favor, [_Princes flie at one another._] + You petty Princes. + + _Py._ He will put 'em all in's pocket. + + _Sy._ Thou proud mad thing be not so full of glory, + So full of vanity. + + _Ba._ How? I contemn thee, + And that fort-keeping fellow. + + _Py._ How the Dog looks, + The bandog Governor! + + _Gov._ Ha, Why? + + _Ba._ Away thing, + And keep your rank with those that fit your royalty; + Call out the Princess. + + _Gov._ Dost thou know me bladder, + Thou insolent impostume? + + _Ba._ I despise thee; + + _Gov._ Art thou acquainted with my nature baby? + With my revenge for Injuries? darst thou hold me + So far behind thy file, I cannot reach thee? + What canst thou merit? + + _Ba._ Merit? I am above it; + I am equal with all honors, all atchievements, + And what is great and worthy; the best doer + I keep at my command, fortune's my servant, + 'Tis in my power now to despise such wretches, + To look upon ye slightly, and neglect ye, + And but she daines at some hours to remember ye, + And people have bestowed some Titles on ye, + I should forget your names-- + + _Sy._ Mercy of me; + What a blown fool has self affection + Made of this fellow! did not the Queen your Mother + Long for bellows, and bagpipes, when she was great with ye, + She brought forth such a windy birth? + + _Gov._ 'Tis ten to one + She eat a Drum, and was deliver'd of alarum, + Or else he was swadled in an old saile when he was young. + + _Sy._ He swells too mainly with his meditations; + Faith, talk a little handsomer, ride softly + That we may be able to hold way with ye, we are Princes, + But those are but poor things to you; talk wiser, + 'Twill well become your mightiness; talk less, + That men may think ye can do more. + + _Gov._ Talk truth, + That men may think ye are honest, and believe ye, + Or talk your self asleep, for I am weary of you. + + _Ba._ Why? I can talk and do. + + _Gov._ That wou'd do excellent. + + _Ba._ And tell you, only I deserve the Princess, + And make good only I, if you dare, you sir, + Or you _Syanas_ Prince. + + _Py._ Heres a storm toward, + Methinks it sings already, to him Governor. + + _Gov._ Here lies my proof. [_Draw._ + + _Sy._ And mine. + + _Gov._ I'll be short with ye, + For these long arguments I was never good at. + + _Py._ How white the boaster looks! + + _Enter_ Ruy Dias, Quisara, Quisana, Panura. + + _Ar._ I see he lacks faith. + + _Ru._ For shame forbear great Princes, rule your angers, + You violate the freedom of this place, + The state and Royalty-- + + _Gov._ He's well contented + It seems, and so I have done. + + _Ar._ Is this she Signior? + + _Py._ This is the Princess Sir. + + _Ar._ She is sweet and goodly, + An admirable form, they have cause to justle. + + _Quisar._ Ye wrong me and my court, ye forward Princes; + Comes your Love wrapt in Violence to seek us? + Is't fit though you be great, my presence should be + Stain'd, and polluted with your bloody rages? + My privacies affrighted with your Swords? + He that loves me, loves my command; be temper'd, + Or be no more what ye profess, my Servants. + + _Omnes._ We are calme as peace. + + _Ar._ What command she carries! + And what a sparkling Majesty flies from her! + + _Quisar._ Is it ye love to do? ye shall find danger, + And danger that shall start your resolutions, + But not this way; 'tis not contention, + Who loves me to my face best, or who can flatter most + Can carry me, he that deserves my favor, + And will enjoy what I bring, love and Majesty, + Must win me with his worth; must travel for me; + Must put his hasty rage off, and put on + A well confirmed, a temperate, and true valor. + + _Omnes._ But shew the way. + + _Quisar._ And will, and then shew you + A will to tread the way, I'll say ye are worthy. + + _Py._ What task now + Will she turn 'em to? these hot youths, + I fear will find a cooling card, I read in her eyes + Something that has some swinge must flye amongst 'em; + By this hand I love her a little now. + + _Quisar._ 'Tis not unknown to you + I had a royal Brother, now miserable, + And Prisoner to that Man; if I were ambitious, + Gap'd for that glory was n're born with me, + There he should lie his miseries upon him: + If I were covetous, and my heart set + On riches, and those base effects that follow + On pleasures uncontrol'd, or safe revenges, + There he should die, his death [would] give me all these; + For then stood I up absolute to do all; + Yet all these flattering shews of dignity, + These golden dreams of greatness cannot force + To forget nature and my fair affection. + Therefore that Man that would be known my lover, + Must be known his redeemer, and must bring him + Either alive or dead to my embraces. + For even his bones I scorn shall feel such slavery, + Or seek another Mistriss, 'twill be hard + To do this, wondrous hard, a great adventure, + Fit for a spirit of an equal greatness; + But being done, the reward is worthy of it. + + _Chr._ How they stand gaping all! + + _Quisar._ _Ruy Dias_ cold? + Not flye like fire into it? may be you doubt me, + He that shall do this is my husband Prince; + By the bright heavens he is, by whose justice + I openly proclaim it; if I lye, + Or seek to set you on with subtilty, + Let that meet with me, and reward my falshood. + No stirring yet, no start into a bravery? + + _Ruy._ Madam, it may be, but being a main danger, + Your Grace must give me leave to look about me, + And take a little time, the cause will ask it. + Great Acts require great counsels. + + _Quisar._ Take your pleasure, + I fear the Portugal. + + _Ba._ I'll raise an Army + That shall bring back [h]is Island, Fort and all, + And fix it here. + + _Gov._ How long will this be doing? + You should have begun in your Grandfather's days. + + _Sy._ What may be, + And what my power can promise noblest Lady, + My will I am sure stands fair. + + _Quisar._ Faire be your fortune, + Few promises are best, and fair performance. + + _Gov._ These cannot doe, + Their power and arts are weak ones. + 'Tis in my will, I have this King your brother, + He is my prisoner, I accept your proffer, + And bless the fair occasion that atchiev'd him: + I love ye, and I honor ye, but speak; + Whether alive or dead he shall be rendred, + And see how readily, how in an instant, + Quick as your wishes Lady-- + + _Quisar._ No, I scorn ye, + You and your courtesie; I hate your love Sir; + And ere I would so basely win his liberty, + I would study to forget he was my brother; + By force he was taken; he that shall enjoy me, + Shall fetch him back by force, or never know me. + + _Py._ As I live, a rare Wench. + + _Ar._ She has a noble spirit. + + _Gov._ By force? + + _Quisar._ Yes Sir, by force, and make you glad too + To let him goe. + + _Gov._ How? you may look nobler on me, + And think me no such Boy; by force he must not, + For your love much may be. + + _Quisar._ Put up your passion, + And pack ye home, I say, by force, and suddenly. + He lies there till he rots else, although I love him + Most tenderly and dearly, as a brother, + And out of these respects would joy to see him; + Yet to receive him as thy courtesie, + With all the honor thou couldst add unto him + From his hands that most hate him, I had rather, + Though no condition were propounded for him, + See him far sunke i'th earth, and there forget him. + + _Py._ Your hopes are gelt good Governor. + + _Arm._ A rare Woman. + + _Gov._ Lady, + I'll pull this pride, I'll quench this bravery, + And turne your glorious scorn to tears and howlings; + I will proud Princess; this neglect of me + Shall make thy brother King most miserable; + Shall turn him into curses 'gainst thy cruelty: + For where before I us'd him like a King, + And did those Royal Offices unto him: + Now he shall lie a sad lump in a dungeon, + Loden with chains and fetters, colds and hunger, + Darkness, and lingring death for his companions; + And let me see who dare attempt his rescue, + What desperate fool? look toward it; farewel, + And when thou know'st him thus, lament thy follies, + Nay I will make thee kneel to take my offer: + Once more farewel, and put thy trust in puppits. [_Exit._ + + _Quisar._ If none dare undertake it, I'll live a mourner. + + _Ba._ You cannot want. + + _Sy._ You must not. + + _Ru._ 'Tis most dangerous, + And wise men wou'd proceed with care and counsel, + Yet some way would I knew-- + Walke with me Gentlemen-- [_Exeunt. Manent, Arm. and his Comp._ + + _Ar._ How do you like her spirit? + + _Soz._ 'Tis a clear one, + Clog'd with no dirty stuff, she is all pure honor. + + _Em._ The bravest Wench I ever look'd upon, + And of the strongest parts, she is most fair, + Yet her mind such a mirrour-- + + _Arm._ What an action + Wou'd this be to put forward on, what a glory, + And what an everlasting wealth to end it! + Methinks my soul is strangely rais'd. + + _Soz._ To step into it, + Just while they think, and ere they have determin'd + To bring the King off. + + _Ar._ Things have been done as dangerous. + + _Em._ And prosper'd best when they were least consider'd. + + _Ar._ Bless me my hopes, + And you my friends assist me. + None but our companions. + + _Soz._ You deale wisely, + And if we shrink the name of slaves dye with us. + + _Em._ Stay not for second thoughts. + + _Ar._ I am determin'd; + And though I lose, it shall be sung, I was valiant, + And my brave offer shall be turn'd to story, + Worthy the Princess tongue. A Boat, that's all + That's unprovided, and habits like to Merchants, + The rest wee'l councel as we goe. + + _Soz._ Away then, + Fortune looks fair on those, make haste to win her. [_Exeunt._ + + + + + _Actus Secundus. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter Keeper, and 2 or 3 Moores._ + + _Kee._ I Have kept many a Man, and many a great one, + Yet I confess, I nere saw before + A Man of such a sufferance; he lies now + Where I would not lay my dog, for sure 'twould kill him. + Where neither light or comfort can come near him; + Nor air, nor earth that's wholsome; it grieves me + To see a mighty King with all his glory, + Sunk o'th' sudden to the bottome of a dungeon. + Whether should we descend that are poor Rascals + If we had our deserts? + + _1. Mo._ 'Tis a strange wonder, + Load him with Irons, oppress him with contempts, + Which are the Governors commands, give him nothing, + Or so little, to sustain life, 'tis next nothing; + They stir not him, he smiles upon his miseries, + And beares 'em with such strength, as if his nature + Had been nurs'd up, and foster'd with calamities. + + _2._ He gives no ill words, curses, nor repines not, + Blames nothing, hopes in nothing, we can hear of; + And in the midst of all these frights, fears nothing. + + _Kee._ I'll be sworne + He fears not, for even when I shake for him, + As many times my pitty will compell me, + When other souls, that bear not half his burthen, + Shrink in their powers, and burst with their oppressions; + Then will he Sing, wooe his afflictions, + And court 'em in sad airs, as if he wou'd wed 'em. + + _1._ That's more than we have heard yet, we are only + Appointed for his Guard, but not so near him, + If we could hear that wonder-- + + _Kee._ Many times + I fear the Governor should come to know it; + For his voice so affects me, so delights me, + That when I find his hour, I have Musick ready, + And it stirs me infinitely, be but still and private, + And you may chance to hear. + [_King appears loden with chains, his head, and armes only above._ + + _2._ We will not stir, Sir; + This is a sudden change, but who dares blame it. + + _Kee._ Now hark and melt, for I am sure I shall; + Stand silent, what stubborn weight of chains-- + + _1._ Yet he looks temperately. + + _2._ His eyes not sunk, and his complexion firm still, + No wildness, no distemper'd touch upon him, + How constantly he smiles, and how undanted! + With what a Majesty he heaves his head up! [_Musick._ + + _Kee._ Now marke, I know he will sing; do not disturb him. + Your allowance from the Governor, wou'd it were more sir, + Or in my power to make it hansomer. + + _Kin._ Do not transgress thy charge, I take his bounty, + And fortune, whilst I bear a mind contented + Not leaven'd with the glory I am falen from, + Nor hang upon vain hopes, that may corrupt me. + + _Enter Governor._ + + _Gov._ Thou art my slave, and I appear above thee. + + _Kee._ The Governor himself. + + _Gov._ What, at your banquet? + And in such state, and with such change of service? + + _Kin._ Nature's no glutton, Sir, a little serves her. + + _Gov._ This diet's holsome then. + + _Kin._ I beg no better. + + _Gov._ A calm contented mind, give him less next; + These full meals will oppress his health, his Grace + Is of a tender, and pure constitution, + And such repletions-- + + _Kin._ Mock, mock, it moves not me sir, + Thy mirths, as do thy mischiefs, flie behind me. + + _Gov._ Ye carry it handsomely, but tell me patience, + Do not you curse the brave and royal Lady + Your gracious sister? do not you damn her pitty, + Damn twenty times a day, and damn it seriously? + Do not you swear aloud too, cry and kick? + The very soul sweat in thee with the agony + Of her contempt of me? Couldst not thou eat her + For being so injurious to thy fortune, + Thy fair and happy fortune? Couldst not thou wish her + A Bastard, or a Whore, fame might proclame her; + Black ugly fame, or that thou hadst had no sister? + Spitting the general name out, and the nature; + Blaspheming heaven for making such a mischief; + For giving power to pride, and will to Woman? + + _Kin._ No Tyrant, no, I bless and love her for it; + And though her scorn of thee, had laid up for me + As many plagues as the corrupted air breeds, + As many mischiefs as the hours have minutes, + As many formes of Death, as doubt can figure; + Yet I should love [her] more still, and more honor her; + All thou canst lay upon me, cannot bend me, + No not the stroke of death, that I despise too: + For if fear could possess me, thou hadst won me; + As little from this hour I prize thy flatteries, + And less than those thy prayers, though thou wouldst kneel to me; + And if she be not Mistriss of this nature, + She is none of mine, no kin, and I contemne her. + + _Gov._ Are you so valiant sir? + + _Kin._ Yes, and so fortunate; + For he that holds his constancy still conquers; + Hadst thou preserv'd me as a noble enemy, + And as at first, made my restraint seem to me + But only as the shadow of captivity, + I had still spoke thee noble, still declar'd thee + A valiant, great, and worthy man, still lov'd thee, + And still prefer'd thy fair love to my sister; + But to compell this from me with a misery, + A most inhumane, and unhandsome slavery-- + + _Gov._ You will relent for all this talk I fear not, + And put your wits a work agen. + + _Kin._ You are cozen'd; + Or if I were so weak to be wrought to it, + So fearful to give way to so much poverty, + How I should curse her heart if she consented! + + _Gov._ You shall write, and entreat, or-- + + _Kin._ Do thy utmost, + And e'en in all thy tortures I'll laugh at thee, + I'll think thee no more valiant, but a villain; + Nothing thou hast done brave, but like a thief, + Atchiev'd by craft, and kept by cruelty; + Nothing thou canst deserve, thou art unhonest; + Nor no way live to build a Name, thou art barbarous. + + _Gov._ Down with him low enough, there let him murmur, + And see his diet be so light and little, + He grow not thus high hearted on't, I will coole ye, + And make ye cry for mercy, and be ready + To work my ends, and willingly; and your sister taken down, + Your scornful, cruel sister shall repent too, + And sue to me for grace. + Give him no liberty, + But let his bands be doubled, his ease lessened; + Nothing his heart desires, but vex and torture him: + Let him not sleep, nothing that's dear to nature + Let him enjoy; yet take heed that he dye not; + Keep him as near death, and as willing to embrace it, + But see he arrive not at it; I will humble him. + And her stout heart that stands on such defiance; + And let me see her champions that dare venture + Her high and mighty wooers, keep your guards close, + And as you love your lives be diligent. + And what I charge, observe. + + _Omnes._ We shall be dutiful. + + _Gov._ I'll pull your courage King, and all your bravery. [_Exit Gov._ + + _1._ Most certain he is resolved nothing can stir him; + For if he had but any part about him + Gave way to fear or hope, he durst not talk thus, + And do thus stoutly too, as willingly, + And quietly he sunk down to his sorrows, + As some men [to] their sleeps. + + _Keep._ Yes, and sleeps with e'm; + So little he regards them, there's the wonder, + And often soundly sleeps, wou'd I durst pity him, + Or wou'd it were in my will, but we are servants, + And tied unto command. + + _2._ I wish him better, + But much I fear h'as found his tombe already, + We must observe our guards. + + _1._ He cannot last long, + And when he is dead, he is free. + + _Kee._ That's the most cruelty, + That we must keep him living. + + _2._ That's as he please; + For that Man that resolves, needs no Phisitian. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Armusia, Soza, Emanuel _like Merchants, arm'd + underneath_. + + _Arm._ Our prosperous passage was an omen to us, + A lucky and a fair omen. + + _Omnes._ We believe it. + + _Ar._ The Sea and Wind strove who should most befriend us, + And as they favour'd our design, and lov'd us, + So lead us forth--Where lies the Boat that brought us? + + _Soz._ Safe lodg'd within the Reeds, close by the Castle, + That no eye can suspect, nor thought come near it. + + _Em._ But where have you been, brave sir? + + _Ar._ I have broke the Ice Boyes: + I have begun the game, fair fortune guide it, + Suspectless have I travell'd all the Town through, + And in this Merchants shape won much acquaintance, + Survey'd each strength and place that may befriend us, + View'd all his Magazines, got perfect knowledge + Of where the Prison is, and what power guards it. + + _Soz._ These will be strong attempts. + + _Ar._ Courage is strong: + What we beg[a]n with policy, my dear friends, + Let's end with manly force; there's no retiring, + Unless it be with shame. + + _Em._ Shame his that hopes it. + + _Ar._ Better a few, and clearer fame will follow us, + However, lose or win, and speak our memories, + Than if we led our Armies; things done thus, + And of this noble weight, will stile us worthies. + + _Soz._ Direct, and we have done, bring us to execute, + And if we flinch, or fail-- + + _Ar._ I am sure ye dare not. + Then farther know, and let no ear be near us, + That may be false. + + _Em._ Speak boldly on, we are honest; + Our lives and fortunes yours. + + _Ar._ Hard by the place then + Where all his Treasure lies, his Armes, his Women, + Close by the Prison too where he keeps the King, + I have hir'd a lodging, as a Trading Merchant, + A Celler to that too, to stow my Wares in, + The very Wall of which, joynes to his store-house. + + _Soz._ What of all this? + + _Ar._ Ye are dull, if ye apprehend not: + Into that Cellar, elected friends, I have convey'd, + And unsuspected too, that that will do it; + That that will make all shake, and smoak too. + + _Em._ Ha? + + _Ar._ My thoughts have not been idle, nor my practice: + The fire I brought here with me shall do something, + Shall burst into material flames, and bright ones, + That all the Island shall stand wondring at it, + As if they had been stricken with a Comet: + Powder is ready, and enough to work it, + The Match is left a-fire, all, all husht, and lockt close, + No man suspecting what I am but Merchant: + An hour hence, my brave friends, look for the fury, + The fire to light us to our honour'd purpose, + For by that time 'twill take. + + _Soz._ What are our duties? + + _Ar._ When all are full of fear and fright, the Governor + Out of his wits, to see the flames so imperious, + Ready to turn to ashes all he worships, + And all the people there to stop these ruins, + No man regarding any private office; + Then flie we to the prison suddenly, + Here's one has found the way, and dares direct us. + + _Em._ Then to our swords and good hearts, + I long for it. + + _Ar._ Certain we shall not find much opposition, + But what is must be forced. + + _Soz._ 'Tis bravely cast Sir, + And surely too I hope. + + _Ar._ If the fire fail not, + And powder hold his nature, some must presently + Upon the first cry of th' amazed people, + (For nothing will be markt then, but the misery) + Be ready with the boat upon an instant, + And then all's right and fair. + + _Em._ Bless us dear fortune. + + _Ar._ Let us be worthy of it in our courage, + And fortune must befriend us, come all sever, + But keep still within sight, when the flame rises + Let's meet, or either doe, or dye. + + _Soz._ So be it. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter Governor, and Captain._ + + _Gov._ No Captain, for those Troops we need 'em not, + The Town is strong enough to stand their furies; + I wou'd see 'em come, and offer to do something. + They are high in words. + + _Cap._ 'Tis safer Sir then doing. + + _Gov._ Dost think they dare attempt? + + _Cap._ May be by Treaty, + But sure by force they will not prove so froward. + + _Gov._ No faith, I warrant thee, they know me well enough + And know they have no Child in hand to play with: + They know my nature too, I have bit some of 'em, + And to the bones, they have reason to remember me, + It makes me laugh to think how glorious + The fools are in their promises, and how pregnant + Their wits and powers are to bring things to pass; + Am I not grown lean with loss of sleep and care + To prevent these threatnings, Captain? + + _Cap._ You look well Sir: + Upon my conscience you are not like to sicken + Upon any such conceit. + + _Gov._ I hope I shall not: + Well, wou'd I had this Wench, for I must have her, + She must be mine; and there's another charge Captain; + What betwixt love and brawling I got nothing, + All goes in maintenance-- + Heark, What was that, [_The Train takes._ + That noise there? it went with a violence. + + _Cap._ Some old wall belike Sir, + That had no neighbor help to hold it up, + Is fallen suddenly. + + _Gov._ I must discard these Rascals, + That are not able to maintain their buildings, + They blur the beauty of the Town. + + _Within._ Fire, Fire. + + _Gov._ I hear another tune, good Captain, + It comes on fresher still, 'tis loud and fearful, + Look up into the Town, how bright the ayr shewes; + Upon my life some sudden fire. [_Ex. Cap._ + The bell too? [_Bell Rings._ + I hear the noise more clear. + + _Enter Citizen._ + + _Cit._ Fire, fire. + + _Gov._ Where? where? + + _Cit._ Suddenly taken in a Merchan[t]s house sir, + Fearful and high it blazes; help good people. + + _Gov._ Pox o'their paper-houses, how they smother, + They light like Candles, how the rore still rises! + + _Enter Captain._ + + _Cap._ Your Magazine's a fire Sir, help, help suddenly, + The Castle too is in danger, in much danger, + All will be lost, get the people presently, + And all that are your Guard, and all help, all hands Sir, + Your wealth, your strength, is burnt else, the Town perisht; + The Castle now begins to flame. + + _Gov._ My soul shakes. + + _Cap._ A Merchants house next joyning? shame light on him, + That ever such a neighbour, such a villain-- + + _Gov._ Raise all the Garrison, and bring 'em up. + + _Enter other Citizens._ + + And beat the people forward--Oh I have lost all + In one house, all my hopes: good worthy Citizens + Follow me all, and all your powers give to me, + I will reward you all. Oh cursed fortune-- + The flame's more violent: arise still, help, help, Citizens, + Freedom and wealth to him that helps: follow, oh follow. + Fling wine, or any thing, I'll see't recompenc'd. + Buckets, more Buckets; fire, fire, fire. [_Ex. omnes._ + + _Enter_ Armusia, _and his company_. + + _Arm._ Let it flame on, a comely light it gives up + To our discovery. + + _Soz._ Heark, what a merry cry + These hounds make! forward fairly, + We are not seen in the mist, we are not noted. Away, + Away. Now if we lose our fortune-- [_Exit._ + + _Enter Captain and Citizens._ + + _Cap._ Up Soldiers, up, and deal like men. + + _Cit._ More water, more water, all is consum'd else. + + _Cap._ All's gone, unless you undertake it straight, your + Wealth too, that must preserve, and pay your labor bravely. + Up, up, away. [_Ex. Cap. and Cit. Then,_ + + _Enter_ Armusia _and his company breaking open a Doore_. + + _Ar._ So, thou art open, keep the way clear + Behind still. Now for the place. + + _Sold._ 'Tis here Sir. + + _Ar._ Sure this is it. + Force ope the doore--A miserable creature! + Yet by his manly face-- [_The King discovered._ + + _Kin._ Why stare ye on me? + You cannot put on faces to afright me: + In death I am a King still, and contemne ye: + Where is that Governor? Methinks his Man-hood + Should be well pleas'd to see my Tragedy, + And come to bath his stern eyes in my sorrows; + I dare him to the sight, bring his scorns with him, + And all his rugged threats: here's a throat, soldiers; + Come, see who can strike deepest. + + _Em._ Break the Chain there. + + _Kin._ What does this mean? + + _Ar._ Come, talke of no more Governors, + He has other business, Sir, put your Legs forward, + And gather up your courage like a Man, + Wee'll carry off your head else: we are friends, + And come to give your sorrows ease. + + _Soz._ On bravely; + Delayes may lose agen. + + _Enter Guard._ + + _Ar._ The Guard. + + _Soz._ Upon 'em. + + _Ar._ Make speedy, and sure work. + + _Em._ They flie. + + _Ar._ Up with him, and to the Boat; stand fast, now be speedy; + When this heat's past, wee'll sing our History. + Away, like thoughts, sudden as desires, friends; + Now sacred chance be ours. + + _Soz._ Pray when we have done, Sir. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter 3 or 4 Citizens severally._ + + _1._ What is the fire allaid? + + _2._ 'Tis out, 'tis out, + Or past the worst, I never did so stoutly + I'll assure you neighbours since I was a Man: + I have been burnt at both ends like a squib: + I liv'd two hours in the' fire, 'twas a hideous matter; + But when men of understanding come about it, + Men that judge of things, my Wife gave me over, + And took her leave a hundred times, I bore up still, + And tost the Buckets Boys. + + _3._ We are all meere Martins. + + _1._ I heard a voice at latter end o'th hurry, + Or else I dreamt I heard it, that said Treason. + + _2._ 'Tis like enough, it might cry Murder too, for there was + Many without a joint, but what's that to us: Let's home + And fright our Wives, for we look like Devils. + + _Enter 3 Women._ + + _3._ Here come some of 'em to fright us. + + _1 W._ Mine's alive neighbor--oh sweet hony husband. + + _2._ Thou liest, I think abominably, and thou hadst been + In my place, thou wouldst have stunk at both ends. + Get me some drink, give me whole Tuns of drink, + Whole cisterns; for I have four dozen of fine firebrands + In my belly, I have more smoke in my mouth, than would + Blote a hundred Herrings. + + _2 Wo._ Art thou come safe agen? + + _3 Wo._ I pray you what became of my man, is he in a Well? + + _2._ At hearts ease in a Well, is very well neighbor; + We left him drinking of a new dozen of Buckets; + Thy husbands happy, he was through roasted, + And now he's basting of himself at all points: + The Clark and he are cooling their pericraniums; + Body [O] me neighbors there's fire in my Codpiece. + + _1 Wo._ Bless my Husband. + + _2._ Blow it out Wife--blow, blow, the gable end a'th' store-house. + + _Women._ Some water, water, water. + + _3._ Peace, 'tis but a sparkle; + + Raise not the Town again, 'twill be a great hindrance, + I'm glad 'tis out, and't had ta'en in my Hay-loft? + What frights are [t]hese, marry heaven bless thy modicum. + + _3 Wo._ But is a drown'd outright, pray put me out of + Fear neighbor. + + _2._ Thou wouldst have it so, but after a hundred fires + More, he'll live to see thee burnt for brewing musty + Liquor. + + _1._ Come, let's go neighbor. + + _2._ For I would very fain turn down this liquor; + Come, come, I fry like a burnt mary-bone: + Women get you afore, and draw upon us; + Run wenches, run, and let your Taps run with ye; + Run as the fire were in your tails, cry Ale, Ale. + + _Wom._ Away, let's nourish the poor wretches. + + _2._ We'll rallie up the rest of the burnt Regiment. + + _Enter Governor, Captain, Soldier, and Guard._ + + _Gov._ The fire's quencht Captain, but the mischief hangs still; + The King's redeem'd, and gone too; a trick, a dam'd one: + Oh I am overtaken poorly, tamely. + + _Cap._ Where were the guard that waited upon the prison? + + _Sol._ Most of'em slain, yet some scap'd, Sir, and they deliver, + They saw a little boat ready to receive him, + And those redeem'd him, making such haste and fighting; + Fighting beyond the force of men. + + _Gov._ I am lost Captain, + And all the world will laugh at this, and scorn me: + Count me a heavy sleepy fool, a coward, + A coward past recovery, a confirm'd coward, + One without carriage, or common sense. + + _Sol._ Hee's gon Sir, + And put to Sea amaine, past our recovery, + Not a Boat ready to pursue; if there were any, + The people stand amazed so at their valor, + And the sudden fright of fire, none knows to execute. + + _Gov._ Oh, I could tear my limbs, and knock my boys brains + 'Gainst every post I meet; fool'd with a fire? + + _Cap._ It was a crafty trick. + + _Gov._ No, I was lazy, + Confident sluggish lazie, had I but met 'em + And chang'd a dozen blowes, I had forgiv'n 'em, + By both these hands held up, and by that brightness + That gildes the world with light, by all our worships, + The hidden ebbes and flowes of the blew Ocean, + I will not rest; no mirth shall dwell upon me, + Wine touch my mouth, nor any thing refresh me, + Till I be wholly quit of this dishonor: + Make ready my _Barrato's_ instantly, + And what I shall intend-- + + _Cap._ We are your servants. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Quisara, Ruy Dyas. + + _Quisar._ Never tell me, you never car'd to win me, + Never for my sake to attempt a deed, + Might draw me to a thought, you sought my favor: + If not for love of me, for love of armes Sir, + For that cause you profess, for love of honor, + Of which you stile your self the mighty Master, + You might have stept out nobly, and made an offer, + As if you had intended something excellent, + Put on a forward face. + + _Ru._ Dear Lady hold me-- + + _Quisar._ I hold ye, as I find ye, a faint servant. + + _Ru._ By ---- I dare doe-- + + _Quisar._ In a Ladies chamber + I dare believe ye, there's no mortal danger: + Give me the man that dares do, to deserve that: + I thought you _Portugals_ had been rare wonders, + Men of those haughty courages and credits, + That all things were confin'd within your promises, + The Lords of fate and fortune I believ'd ye, + But well I see I am deceiv'd _Ruy Dias_, + And blame, too late, my much beliefe. + + _Ru. I_ am asham'd, Lady, + I was so dull, so stupid to your offer: + Now you have once more school'd me, I am right, + And something shall be thought on suddenly, + And put in Act as soon, some preparation-- + + _Quisar._ And give it out? + + _Ru._ Yes, Lady, and so great too; + In which, the noise of all my Countrey-men-- + + _Quisar._ Those will do well, for they are all approv'd ones, + And though he be restor'd alive. + + _Ru._ I have ye. + + _Quisar._ For then we are both servants. + + _Ru._ I conceive ye, + Good Madam give me leave to turn my fancies. + + _Quis._ Do, and make all things fit, and then I'll visit you. [_Ex._ + + _Ru._ My self, the Cozen, and the Garrison, + The neighbors of the out-Isles of our Nation, + _Syana's_ strength, for I can humor him: + And proud _Bekamus_, I shall deceive his glory. [_A shout._ + What ringing sound of joy is this? whence comes it? + May be the Princes are in sport. + + _Enter_ Pyniero, Christoph. + + _Py._ Where are ye? + + _Ru._ Now _Pyniero_, What's the haste you seek me? + + _Py._ Doe you know this sign Sir? + + _Ru._ Ha! + + _Py._ Do you know this embleme: + Your nose is boar'd. + + _Ru._ Boar'd? What's that? + + _Py._ Y'are topt Sir: + The King's come home again, the King. + + _Ru._ The Devil! + + _Py._ Nay sure he came a Gods name home: + He's return'd Sir. + + _Christ._ And all this joy ye hear-- + + _Ru._ Who durst attempt him? + The Princes are all here. + + _Chry._ They are worthy Princes, + They are special Princes, all they love by ounces. + Believe it Sir, 'tis done, and done most bravely and easily. + What fortune have ye lost Sir? + What justice have ye now unto this Lady? + + _Py._ How stands your claim? + That ever Man should be fool'd so, + When he should do and prosper; stand protesting, + Kissing the hand, and farting for a favor, + When he should be about his business sweating; + She bid you go, and pickt you out a purpose, + To make your self a fortune by, a Lady, a Lady, and a lusty one, + A lovely, that now you may go look, she pointed ye, + Knowing you were a man of worth and merit, + And bid you fly, you have made a fair flight on't, + You have caught a Goose. + + _Ru._ How dare you thus molest me? [_A shout._ + It cannot be. + + _Chr._ Heark how the general joy rings! + + _Py._ Have you your hearing left? Is not that drunk too? + For if you had been sober, you had been wise sure. + + _Ru._ Done? Who dares do? + + _Py._ It seems an honest fellow, + That has ended his Market before you be up. + + _Chr._ The shame on't 's a stranger too. + + _Py._ 'Tis no shame, + He took her at her word, and tied the bargain, + Dealt like a man indeed, stood not demurring, + But clapt close to the cause, as he will do to the Lady: + 'Is a fellow of that speed and handsomness, + He will get her with child too, ere you shall come to know him, + Is it not brave, a gentleman scarce landed, + Scarce eating of the air here, not acquainted, + No circumstance of love depending on him, + Nor no command to shew him, must start forth, + At the first sight to-- + + _Ru._ I am undone. + + _Py._ Like an Oyster: + She neither taking view, nor value of him, + Unto such deeds as these--Pox o' these, + These wise delayings-- + They make men cowards. + You are undone as a man would undoe an egge, + A hundred shames about ye. + + _Enter_ Quisara, Panura, _and Traine_. + + _Quisar._ Can it be possible, + A stranger that I have not known, not seen yet, + A man I never grac'd; O Captain, Captain, + What shall I do? I am betray'd by fortune, + It cannot be, it must not be. + + _Py._ It is Lady, + And by my faith a hansome Gentleman; + 'Tis his poor Schollers prize. + + _Quisar._ Must I be given + Unto a Man I never saw, ne're spoke with, + I know not of what Nation? + + _Py._ Is a Portugal, + And of as good a pitch he will be giv'n to you Lady, + For he's given much to hansome flesh. + + _Quisar._ Oh _Ruy Dias_, + This was your sloth, your sloth, your sloth _Ruy Dias_. + + _Py._ Your love sloth; Unckle do you find it now? + You should have done at first, and faithfully: [_A shout._ + And then th'other had lyed ready for ye; + Madam, the general joy comes. + + _Quisar._ We must meet it--but with what comfort? + + _Enter Citizens carrying boughs_, _boyes singing after 'em_; + _Then_ King, Armusia, Soza, Emanuel; _The Princes and train + following_. + + _Quisar._ Oh my dear brother, what a joy runs through me, + To see you safe again, your self, and mighty, + What a blest day is this! + + _Kin._ Rise up fair Sister, + I am not welcome till you have embraced me. + + _Ru._ A general gladness sir flies through the City, + And mirth possesses all to see your Grace arrive, + Thus happily arriv'd again, and fairly; + 'Twas a brave venture who so e'er put for it, + A high and noble one, worthy much honor; + And had it fail'd, we had not fail'd great Sir, + And in short time too, to have forc'd the Governor, + In spight of all his threats. + + _Kin._ I thank ye Gentleman. + + _Ru._ And all his subtilties to set you free, + With all his heart and will too. + + _Kin._ I know ye love me. + + _Py._ This had been good with something done before it, + Something set off to beautifie it, now it sounds empty, like + A Barbers bason, pox there's no metall in't, no noble marrow. + + _Ba._ I have an Army Sir, but that the Governor, + The foolish fellow was a little provident, + And wise in letting slip no time, became him too, + That would have scour'd him else, and all his confines; + That would have rung him such a peal-- + + _Py._ Yes backward, + To make dogs houl, I know thee to a farthing, + Thy Army's good for Hawks, there's + Nothing but sheeps hearts in it. + + _Sy._ I have done nothing Sir, therefore + I think it convenient I say little what I purposed, + And what my love intended. + + _Kin._ I like your modesty, + And thank ye royal friends, I know it griev'd ye + To know my misery; but this man, Prince[s], + I must thank heartily, indeed, and treuly, + For this Man saw me in't, and redeemed me: + He lookt upon me sinking, and then caught me. + This Sister this, this all Man, this all valor, + This pious Man. + + _Ru._ My countenance, it shames me, + One scarce arriv'd, not harden'd yet, not + Read in dangers and great deeds, sea-sick, not season'd-- + Oh I have boy'd my self. + + _Kin._ This noble bulwark, + This launce and honor of our age and Kingdome; + This that I never can reward, nor hope + To be once worthy of the name of friend to, + This, this Man from the bowels of my sorrows + Has new begot my name, and once more made me: + Oh sister, if there may be thanks for this, + Or any thing near recompence invented. + + _Ar._ You are too noble Sir, there is reward + Above my action too by millions: + A recompence so rich and glorious, + I durst not dreame it mine, but that 'twas promised; + But that it was propounded, sworn and sealed + Before the face of Heaven, I durst not hope it, + For nothing in the life of man, or merit, + It is so truly great, can else embrace it. + + _Kin._ O speak it, speak it, bless mine ears to hear it, + Make me a happy man, to know it may be, + For still methinks I am a prisoner, + And feel no liberty before I find it. + + _Ar._ Then know it is your sister, she is mine Sir, + I claime her by her own word, and her honor; + It was her open promise to that Man + That durst redeeme ye; Beauty set me on, + And fortune crowns me fair, if she receive me. + + _Kin._ Receive ye, Sir--why Sister--ha--so backward, + Stand as you knew me not? nor what he has ventured? + My dearest Sister. + + _Ar._ Good Sir pardon me, + There is a blushing modesty becomes her, + That holds her back; Women are nice to wooe Sir; + I would not have her forc'd; give her fair liberty; + For things compell'd and frighted, of soft natures, + Turn into fears, and flie from their own wishes. + + _Kin._ Look on him my _Quisara_, such another, + Oh all ye powers, so excellent in nature! + In honor so abundant!-- + + _Quisar._ I confess Sir, + Confess my word is past too, he has purchased; + Yet good Sir give me leave to think; but time + To be acquainted with his worth and person; + To make me fit to know it; we are both strangers, + And how we should believe so suddenly, + Or come to fasten our affections-- + Alas, love has his complements. + + _Kin._ Be sudden + And certain in your way, no woman[s] doubles, + Nor coy delayes, you are his, and so assure it, + Or cast from me and my remembrance ever; + Respect your word, I know you will, come Sister, + Lets see what welcome you can give a prisoner, + And what fair looks a friend--Oh my most noble + Princes, no discontents, but all be lusty, + He that frowns this day is an open enemy: + Thus in my armes my dear. + + _Ar._ You make me blush Sir. + + _Kin._ And now lead on-- + Our whole Court crown'd with pleasure. + + _Ru._ Madam, despair not, something shall be done yet, + And suddenly, and wisely. + + _Quisar._ O _Ruy Dias_. [_Ex._ + + _Py._ Well, he's a brave fellow, and he has deserv'd her richly; + And you have had your hands full I dare swear Gentlemen. + + _Soz._ We have done something, Sir, if it hit right. + + _Ch._ The woman has no eyes else, nor no honesty, + So much I think. + + _Py._ Come, let's goe bounce amongst 'em, + To the Kings health, and my brave Country-mans. + My Unckle looks as though he were sick oth' + Worms friends. [_Exeunt._ + + + + + _Actus Tertius. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter_ Pyniero. + + Mine Unckle haunts me up and down, looks melancholy, + Wondrous proof melancholy, sometimes swears + Then whistles, starts, cries, and groans, as if he had the Bots, + As to say truth, I think h'as little better, + A[n]d we'd fain speak; bids me good morrow at midnight, + And good night when 'tis noon, has something hovers + About his brains, that would fain find an issue, + But cannot out, or dares not: still he follows. + + _Enter_ Ruy Dyas. + + How he looks still, and how he beats about, + Like an old dog at a dead scent! I marry, + There was a sigh wou'd a set a ship a sailing: + These winds of love and honor, blow at all ends. + Now speak and't be thy Will: good morrow Uncle. + + _Ru._ Good morrow Sir. + + _Py._ This is a new salute: + Sure h'as forgot me: this is pur-blind _Cupid_. + + _Ru._ My Nephew? + + _Py._ Yes Sir, if I be not chang'd. + + _Ru._ I wou'd fain speak with you. + + _Py._ I wou'd fain have ye, Sir, + For to that end I stay. + + _Ru._ You know I love ye, + And I have lov'd ye long, my dear _Pyniero_, + Bred and supply'd you. + + _Py._ Whither walks this Preamble? + + _Ru._ You may remember, though I am but your Uncle, + I sure had a father's care, a father's tenderness. + + _Py._ Sure he would wrap me into something now suddenly, + He doubts my nature in, for mine is honest, + He winds about me so. + + _Ru._ A fathers diligence. + My private benefits I have forgot, Sir, + But those you might lay claim to as my follower; + Yet some men wou'd remember-- + + _Py._ I do daily. + + _Ru._ The place which I have put ye in, which is no weak one, + Next to my self you stand in all employments, + Your counsels, cares, assignments with me equal, + So is my study still to plant your person; + These are small testimonies I have not forgot ye, + Nor wou'd not be forgotten. + + _Pyn._ Sure you cannot. + + _Ru._ Oh _Pyniero_-- + + _Pyn._ Sir, what hangs upon you, + What heavy weight oppresses ye, ye have lost, + (I must confess, in those that understand ye) + Some little of your credit, but time will cure that; + The best may slip sometimes. + + _Ru._ Oh my best Nephew-- + + _Pyn._ It may be ye fear her too, that disturbs ye, + That she may fall her self, or be forc'd from ye. + + _Ru._ She is ever true, but I undone for ever. + Oh that _Armusia_, that new thing, that stranger, + That flag stuck up to rob me of mine honor; + That murd'ring chain shot at me from my Countrey: + That goodly plague that I must court to kill me. + + _Pyn._ Now it comes flowing from him, I fear'd this, + Knew, he that durst be idle, durst be ill too, + Has he not done a brave thing? + + _Ru._ I must confess it Nephew, must allow it, + But that brave thing has undone me, has sunk me, + Has trod me like a name in sand, to nothing, + Hangs betwixt hope and me, and threatens my ruin; + And if he rise and blaze, farewel my fortune; + And when that's set, where's thy advancement, Cosin? + That were a friend, that were a noble kinsman, + That would consider these; that man were grateful; + And he that durst do something here, durst love me. + + _Pyn._ You say true, 'tis worth consideration, + Your reasons are of weight, and mark me Uncle, + For I'll be sudden, and to th' purpose with you. + Say this _Armusia_, then were taken off, + As it may be easily done, + How stands the woman? + + _Ru._ She is mine for ever; + For she contemns his deed and him. + + _Pyn._ Pox on him. + Or if the single pox be not sufficient, + The hogs, the dogs, the devils pox possess him: + 'Faith this _Armusia_ stumbles me, 'tis a brave fellow; + And if he could be spared Uncle-- + + _Ru._ I must perish: + Had he set up at any rest but this, + Done any thing but what concern'd my credit, + The everlasting losing of my worth-- + + _Pyn._ I understand you now, who set you on too. + I had a reasonable good opinion of the devil + Till this hour; and I see he is a knave indeed, + An arrant, stinking knave, for now I smell him; + I'll see what may be done then, you shall know + You have a kinsman, but no villain Uncle, + Nor no betrayer of fair fame, I scorn it; + I love and honor virtue; I must have + Access unto the Lady to know her mind too, + A good word from her mouth you know may stir me; + A Ladies look at setting on-- + + _Ru._ You say well, + Here Cosin, here's a Letter ready for you, + And you shall see how nobly she'll receive you, + And with what [c]are direct. + + _Pyn._ Farewel then Uncle, + After I have talk'd with her, I am your servant, + To make you honest if I can--else hate you. + Pray ye no more compliments, my head is busie, heaven bless me; + What a malicious soul does this man carry! + And to what scurvy things this love converts us! + What stinking things, and how sweetly they become us! + Murther's a moral virtue with these Lovers, + A special piece of Divinity, I take it: + I may be mad, or violently drunk. + Which is a whelp of that litter; or I may be covetous, + And learn to murther mens estates, that's base too; + Or proud, but that's a Paradise to this; + Or envious, and sit eating of my self + At others fortunes; I may lye, and damnably, + Beyond the patience of an honest hearer; + Cosin, Cutpurses, sit i'th' Stocks for apples. + But when I am a Lover, Lord have mercy, + These are poor pelting sins, or rather plagues, + Love and Ambition draw the devils Coach. + + _Enter_ Quisana, _and_ Panura. + + How now! who are these? Oh my great Ladies followers, + Her Riddle-founders, and her Fortune-tellers. + Her readers of her Love-Lectures, her Inflamers: + These doors I must pass through, I hope they are wide. + Good day to your beauties, how they take it to 'em! + As if they were fair indeed. + + _Quisan._ Good morrow to you, Sir. + + _Pyn._ That's the old Hen, the brood-bird! how she busles! + How like an Inventory of Lechery she looks! + Many a good piece of iniquity + Has past her hands, I warrant her--I beseech you, + Is the fair Princess stirring? + + _Pan._ Yes marry is she, Sir. + But somewhat private: you have a business with her? + + _Py._ Yes forsooth have I, and a serious business. + + _Pan._ May not we know? + + _Py._ Yes, when you can keep counsel. + + _Pan._ How prettily he looks! he's a soldier sure, + His rudeness sits so handsomly upon him. + + _Quisan._ A good blunt Gentleman. + + _Py._ Yes marry am I: + Yet for a push or two at sharp, and't please you-- + + _Pan._ My honest friend, you know not who you speak to: + This is the Princesses Aunt, + + _Py._ I like her the better + And she were her Mother (Lady) or her Grandmother, + I am not so bashful, but I can buckle with her. + + _Pan._ Of what size is your business? + + _Py[n]._ Of the long sixteens, + And will make way I warrant ye. + + _Pan._ How fine he talks! + + _Pyn._ Nay in troth I talk but coursely, Lady, + But I hold it comfortable for the understanding: + How fain they wou'd draw me into ribaldry! + These wenches that live easily, live high, + [And l]ove these broad discourses, as they love possets; + These dry delights serve for preparatives. + + _Pan._ Why do you look so on me? + + _Pyn._ I am guessing + By the cast of your face, what the property of your place, should be, + For I presume you turn a key, sweet beauty, + And you another, gravity, under the Princess, + And by my ---- I warrant ye good places, + Comly commodious Seats. + + _Quisan._ Prethee let him talk still. + For me thinks he talks handsomely. + + _Py._ And truly + As near as my understanding shall enable me + You look as if you kept my Ladies secrets: + Nay, do not laugh, for I mean honestly, + How these young things tattle, when they get a toy by th' end! + And how their hearts go pit-a-pat, and look for it! + Wou'd it not dance too, if it had a Fiddle? + Your gravity I guess, to take the Petitions, + And hear the lingring suits in love dispos'd, + Their sighs and sorrows in their proper place, + You keep the Ay-me Office. + + _Quisan._ Prethee suffer him, + For as I live he's a pretty fellow; + I love to hear sometimes what men think of us: + And thus deliver'd freely, 'tis no malice: + Proceed good honest man. + + _Pin._ I will, good Madam. + According to mens states and dignities, + Moneys and moveables, you rate their dreams, + And cast the Nativity of their desires, + If he reward well, all he thinks is prosperous: + And if he promise place, his dreams are Oracles; + Your antient practique Art too in these discoveries, + Who loves at such a length, who a span farther, + And who draws home, yield you no little profit, + For these ye milk by circumstance. + + _Qui._ Ye are cunning. + + _Pin._ And as they oil ye, and advance your Spindle, + So you draw out the lines of love, your doors too, + The doors of destiny, that men must pass through; + These are fair places. + + _Pan._ He knows all. + + _Pin._ Your trap-doors, + To pop fools in it, that have no providence, + Your little wickets, to work wise men, like wires, through at, + And draw their states and bodies into Cobwebs, + Your Postern doors, to catch those that are cautelous, + And would not have the worlds eye find their knaveries: + Your doors of danger, some men hate a pleasure, + Unless that may be full of fears; your hope doors, + And those are fine commodities, where fools pay + For every new enco[u]ragement, a new custom; + You have your doors of honor, and of pleasure; + But those are for great Princes, glorious vanities, + That travel to be famous through diseases; + There be the doors of poverty and death too: + But these you do the best you can to damm up, + For then your gain goes out. + + _Qui._ This is a rare Lecture. + + _Pin._ Read to them that understand. + + _Pan._ Beshrew me, + I dare not venture on ye, ye cut too keen, Sir. + + _Enter_ Quisara. + + _Quisan._ We thank you Sir for your good mirth, + You are a good companion. + Here comes the Princess now, attend your business. + + _Quisar._ Is there no remedy, no hopes can help me? + No wit to set me free? whose there hoe? + + _Quisan._ Troubled? her looks are almost wild: + What ails the Princess? + I know nothing she wants. + + _Quisar._ Who's that there with you? + Oh Signior _Pyniero_? you are most welcome: + How does your noble Uncle? + + _Pin._ Sad as you are Madam: + But he commends his service, and this Letter. + + _Quisar._ Go off, attend within--Fair Sir, I thank ye, + Pray be no stranger, for indeed you are welcome; + For your own virtues welcome. + + _Quisan._ We are mistaken, + This is some brave fellow sure. + + _Pan._ I'm sure he's a bold fellow: + But if she hold him so, we must believe it. [_Exit._ + + _Quisar._ Do you know of this, fair Sir? + + _P[i]n._ I ghess it Madam, + And whether it intends: I had not brought it else. + + _Quis._ It is a business of no common reckoning. + + _Pin._ The handsomer for him that goes about it; + Slight actions are rewarded with slight thanks: + Give me a matter of some weight to wade in. + + _Quisar._ And can you love your Uncle so directly, + So seriously, and so full, to undertake this? + Can there be such a faith? + + _Pin._ Dare you say I to it, + And set me on? 'tis no matter for my Uncle, + Or what I owe to him, dare you but wish it. + + _Quisar._ I wou'd fain-- + + _Pyn._ Have it done; say but so Lady. + + _Quisan._ Conceive it so. + + _Pyn._ I will, 'tis that I am bound to: + Your Will that must command me, and your Pleasure, + The fair aspects of those eyes that must direct me: + I am no Uncles Agent, I am mine own, Lady; + I scorn my able youth should plough for others, + Or my ambition serve for pay; I aim, + Although I never hit, as high as any man, + And the reward I reach at, shall be equal, + And what love spurs me on to, this desire, + Makes me forget an honest man, a brave man, + A valiant, and a virtuous man, my countrey-man, _Armusia_, + The delight of all the _Minions_, + This love of you, doting upon your beauty, the admiration of your + excellence; + Make me but servant to the poorest smile, + Or the least grace you have bestow'd on others, + And see how suddenly I'll work your safety, + And set your thoughts at peace; I am no flatterer, + To promise infinitely, and out-dream dangers; + To lye a bed, and swear men into Feavers, + Like some of your trim suiters; when I promise, + The light is not more constant to the world, + Than I am to my word--She turns for millions. + + _Quisar._ I have not seen a braver confirm'd courage. + + _Pyn._ For a Tun of Crowns she turns: she is a woman, + And much I fear, a worse than I expected. + You are the object, Lady, you are the eye + In which all excellence appears, all wonder, + From which all hearts take fire, all hands their valour: + And when he stands disputing, when you bid him, + Or but thinks of his Estate, Father, Mother, + Friends, Wife, and Children, + H'is a fool, and I scorn him, + And 't be but to make clean his sword, a coward; + Men have forgot their fealty to beauty. + Had I the place in your affections, + My most unworthy Uncle is fit to fall from, + Liv'd in those blessed eyes, and read the stories + Of everlasting pleasures figur'd there, + I wou'd find out your commands before you thought 'em, + And bring 'em to you done, e'r you dream't of 'em. + + _Quis._ I admire his boldness. + + _Pyn._ This, or any thing; + Your brothers death, mine Uncles, any mans, + No state that stands secure, if you frown on it. + Look on my youth, I bring no blastings to you, + The first flower of my strength, my faith. + + _Quis._ No more Sir; + I am too willing to believe, rest satisfi'd; + If you dare do for me, I shall be thankful: + You are a handsome Gentleman, a fair one, + My servant if you please; I seal it thus, Sir. + No more, till you deserve more. [_Exit._ + + _Pyn._ I am rewarded: + This woman's cunning, but she's bloody too; + Although she pulls her Tallons in, she's mischievous; + Form'd like the face of Heaven, clear and transparent; + I must pretend still, bear 'em both in hopes, + For fear some bloudy slave thrust in indeed, + Fashion'd and flesh'd, to what they wish: well Uncle, + What will become of this, and what dishonor + Follow this fatal shaft, if shot, let time tell, + I can but only fear, and strive to cross it. [_Exit._ + + _Enter_ Armusia, Emanuel, _and_ Soza. + + _Em._ Why are you thus sad? what can grieve or vex you + That have the pleasures of the world, the profits, + The honor, and the loves at your disposes? + Why should a man that wants nothing, want his quiet? + + _Ar._ I want what beggars are above me in, content; + I want the grace I have merited, + The favor, the due respect. + + _Soz._ Does not the King allow it? + + _Ar._ Yes, and all honors else, all I can ask, + That he has power to give; but from his Sister, + The scornful cruelty, forgive me beauty, + That I transgress from her that should look on me, + That should a little smile upon my service, + And foster my deserts for her own faiths sake; + That should at least acknowledge me, speak to me. + + _Soz._ And you goe whining up and down for this, Sir? + Lamenting and disputing of your grievances? + Sighing and sobbing like a sullen School-boy, + And cursing good-wife fortune for this favour? + + _Ar._ What would you have me doe? + + _Soz._ Doe what you should do, + What a man would doe in this case, a wise man, + An understanding man that knows a woman; + Knows her and all her tricks, her scorns, and all her trifles: + Goe to her, and take her in your arms, and shake her, + Take her and toss her like a barr. + + _Em._ But be sure you pitch her upon a Feather-bed, + Shake her between a pair of Sheets, Sir, + There shake these sullen fits out of her, spare her not there; + There you may break her Will, and bruise no bone, Sir. + + _Soz._ Goe to her. + + _Em._ That's the way. + + _Soz._ And tell her, and boldly, + And do not mince the matter, nor mock your self, + With being too indulgent to her pride: + Let her hear roundly from ye, what ye are, + And what ye have deserved, and what she must be. + + _Em._ And be not put off like a common fellow, + With the Princess would be private, + Or that she has taken physick, and admits none; + I would talk to her any where. + + _Ar._ It makes me smile. + + _Em._ Now you look handsomly: + Had I a wench to win, I would so flutter her: + They love a man that crushes 'em to verjuce; + A woman held at hard meat, is your Spaniel. + + _Soz._ Pray take our council, Sir. + + _Ar._ I shall do something, + But not your way, it shews too boisterous, + For my affections are as fair and gentle, + As her they serve. + + _Enter King._ + + _Soz._ The King. + + _King._ Why how now friend? + Why do you rob me of the company + I love so dearly, Sir, I have been seeking you; + For when I want you, I want all my pleasure: + Why sad? thus sad still man? I will not have it; + I must not see the face I love thus shadowed. + + _Em._ And't please your Grace, methinks it ill becomes him: + A soldier should be jovial, high and lusty. + + _King._ He shall be so, come, come, I know your reason, + It shall be none to cross you, ye shall have her, + Take my word, ('tis a Kings word) ye shall have her, + She shall be yours or nothing, pray be merry. + + _Arm._ Your Grace has given me cause, I shall be Sir, + And ever your poor servant. + + _King._ Me my self, Sir, + My better self, I shall find time, and suddainly, + To gratifie your loves too, Gentlemen, + And make you know how much I stand bound to you: + Nay, 'tis not worth your thanks, no further complement; + Will you go with me friend? + + _Arm._ I beseech your Grace, + Spare me an hour or two, I shall wait on you, + Some little private business with my self, Sir, + For such a time. + + _King._ I'll hinder no devotion, + For I know you are regular, I'll take you Gentlemen, + Because he shall have nothing to disturb him, + I shall look for your friend. [_Exeunt. manet_ Armusia. + + _Enter_ Panura. + + _Arm._ I dare not fail, Sir: + What shall I do to make her know my misery, + To make her sensible? This is her woman, + I have a toy come to me suddenly, + It may work for the best, she can but scorn me, + And lower than I am, I cannot tumble, + I'll try, what e'er my fate be--Good even fair one. + + _Pan._ 'Tis the brave stranger--A good night to you, Sir. + Now by my Ladies hand, a goodly Gentleman! + How happy shall she be in such a Husband! + Wou'd I were so provided too. + + _Arm._ Good pretty one, + Shall I keep you company for an hour or two? + I want employment for this evening. + I am an honest man. + + _Pan._ I dare believe ye: + Or if ye were not, Sir, that's no great matter, + We take mens promises, wou'd ye stay with me, Sir? + + _Arm._ So it please you, pray let's be better acquainted, + I know you are the Princesses Gentlewoman, + And wait upon her near. + + _Pan._ 'Tis like I do so. + + _Arm._ And may befriend a man, do him fair courtesies, + If he have business your way. + + _Pan._ I understand ye. + + _Arm._ So kind an office, that you may bind a gentleman, + Hereafter to be yours; and your way too, + And ye may bless the hour you did this benefit: + Sweet handsome faces should have courteous minds, + And ready faculties. + + _Pan._ Tell me your business, + Yet if I think it be to her, your self, Sir, + For I know what you are, and what we hold ye, + And in what grace ye stand, without a second, + For that but darkens, you wou'd do it better, + The Princess must be pleas'd with your accesses; + I'm sure I should. + + _Arm._ I want a Courtiers boldness, + And am yet but a stranger, I wou'd fain speak with her: + + _Pan._ 'Tis very late, and upon her hour of sleep, Sir. + + _Ar._ Pray ye wear this, and believe my meaning civil, + My business of that fair respect and carriage: + This for our more acquaintance. [_Jewel._ + + _Pan._ How close he kisses! + And how sensible the passings of his lips are! + I must do it, and I were to be hang'd now, and I will do it: + He may do as much for me, that's all I aim at; + And come what will on't, life or death, I'll do it, + For ten such kisses more, and 'twere high treason. + + _Arm._ I wou'd be private with her. + + _Pan._ So you shall, + 'Tis not worth thanks else, you must dispatch quick. + + _Arm._ Suddenly. + + _Pan._ And I must leave you in my chamber, Sir; + Where you must lock your self that none may see you; + 'Tis close to her, you cannot miss the entrance, + When she comes down to bed. + + _Arm._ I understand ye, and once more thank ye Lady. + + _Pan._ Thank me but thus. + + _Arm._ If I fail thee-- + Come close then. [_Ex._ + + _Enter_ Quisara, _and_ Quisana. + + _Quisar._ 'Tis late good Aunt, to bed, I am ev'n unready, + My woman will not be long away. + + _Quisan._ I wou'd have you a little merrier first, + Let me sit by ye, and read or discourse + Something that ye fancy, or take my instrument. + + _Quisar._ No, no I thank you, + I shall sleep without these, I wrong your age Aunt + To make ye wait thus, pray let me intreat ye, + To morrow I'll see ye, I know y'are sleepy, + And rest will be a welcome guest, you shall not, + Indeed you shall not stay; oh here's my woman, + + _Enter_ Panura. + + Good night, good night, and good rest Aunt attend you. + + _Quisan._ Sleep dwell upon your eyes, and fair dreams court ye. + + _Quisar._ Come, where have you been wench? make me unready; + I slept but ill last night. + + _Pan._ You'll sleep the better + I hope [too] night, Madam. + + _Quisar._ A little rest contents me; + Thou lovest thy bed _Panura_. + + _Pan._ I am not in love Lady, + Nor seldom dream of devils, I sleep soundly. + + _Quisar._ I'll swear thou dost, thy Husband wou'd not take it so well + If thou wert married wench. + + _Pan._ Let him take, Madam, + The way to waken me, I am no Dormouse, + Husbands have larum bels, if they but + Ring once. + + _Quisar._ Thou art a merry wench. + + _Pan._ I shall live the longer. + + _Quisar._ Prethee fetch my Book. + + _Pan._ I am glad of that. + + _Quisar._ I'll read awhile before I sleep. + + _Pan._ I will Madam. + + _Quisar._ And if _Ruy Dias_ meet you, and be importunate, + He may come in. + + _Pan._ I have a better fare for you, + Now least in sight play I. [_Exit._ + + _Enter_ Armusia, _locks the door_. + + _Quisar._ Why should I love him? + Why should I doat upon a man deserves not, + Nor has no will to work it? who's there wench? + What are you? or whence come you? + + _Arm._ Ye may know me, + I bring not such amazement, noble Lady. + + _Quisar._ Who let you in? + + _Arm._ My restless love that serves ye. + + _Quisar._ This is an impudence I have not heard of, + A rudeness that becomes a thief or ruffian; + Nor shall my brothers love protect this boldness, + You build so strongly on, my rooms are sanctuaries, + And with that reverence, they that seek my favours, + And humble fears, shall render their approaches. + + _Arm._ Mine are no less. + + _Quisar._ I am Mistriss of my self, Sir, + And will be so, I will not be thus visited: + These fears and dangers thrust into my privacy. + Stand further off, I'll cry out else. + + _Arm._ Oh dear Lady! + + _Quisar._ I see dishonor in your eyes. + + _Arm._ There is none: + By all that beauty they are innocent; + Pray ye tremble not, you have no cause. + + _Quisar._ I'll dye first; + Before you have your Will, be torn in pieces; + The little strength I have left me to resist you, + The gods will give me more, before I am forc'd + To that I hate, or suffer-- + + _Arm._ You wrong my duty. + + _Quisar._ So base a violation of my liberty? + I know you are bent unnobly; I'll take to me + The spirit of a man; borrow his boldness, + And force my womans fears into a madness, + And e'er you arrive at what you aim at-- + + _Arm._ Lady, + If there be in you any womans pity; + And if your fears have not proclaim'd me monstrous; + Look on me, and believe me; is this violence? + Is it to fall thus prostrate to your beauty + A ruffians boldness? is humility a rudeness? + The griefs and sorrows that grow here an impudence? + These forcings, and these fears I bring along with me; + These impudent abuses offered ye; + And thus high has your brothers favour blown me: + Alas dear Lady of my life, I came not + With any purpose, rough or desperate, + With any thought that was not smooth and gentle, + As your fair hand, with any doubt or danger + Far be it from my heart to fright your quiet; + A heavy curse light on it, when I intend it. + + _Quisar._ Now I dare hear you. + + _Arm._ If I had been mischievous, + As then I must be mad; or were a monster, + If any such base thought had harbour'd here, + Or violence that became not man, + You have a thousand bulwarks to assure you, + The holy powers bear shields to defend chastity; + Your honor, and your virtues are such armours; + Your clear thoughts such defences; if you mis-doubt still + And yet retain a fear, I am not honest, + Come with impure thoughts to this place; + Take this, and sheath it here; be your own safety; + Be wise, and rid your fears, and let me perish; + How willing shall I sleep to satisfie you. + + _Quisar._ No, I believe now, you speak worthily; + What came you then for? + + _Arm._ To complain me, beauty, + But modestly. + + _Quisar._ Of what? + + _Arm._ Of your fierce cruelty, + For though I dye, I will not blame the doer: + Humbly to tell your grace, ye had forgot me: + A little to have touch'd at, not accused, + For that I dare not do, your scorns, pray pardon me + And be not angry that I use the liberty + To urge that word, a little to have shew'd you + What I have been, and what done to deserve ye, + If any thing that love commands may reach ye: + To have remembred ye, but I am unworthy, + And to that misery falls all my fortunes, + To have told ye, and by my life ye may believe me, + That I am honest, and will only marry + You, or your memory; pray be not angry. + + _Quisar._ I thank you Sir, and let me tell you seriously, + Ye have taken now the right way to befriend ye, + And to beget a fair and clear opinion, + Yet to try your obedience-- + + _Arm._ I stand ready Lady. + Without presuming to ask any thing. + + _Quisar._ Or at this time to hope for further favour; + Or to remember services or smiles; + Dangers you have past through, and rewards due to 'em; + Loves or despairs, but leaving all to me: + Quit this place presently. + + _Arm._ I shall obey ye. + + _Enter_ Ruy Dias. + + _Ru._ Ha? + + _Arm._ Who's this? + What art thou? + + _Ru._ A Gentleman. + + _Arm._ Thou art no more I'm sure: oh 'tis _Ruy Dias_; + How high he looks, and harsh! + + _Ru._ Is there not door enough, + You take such elbow room? + + _Arm._ If I take it, I'll carry it. + + _Ru._ Does this become you Princess? + + _Arm._ The Captain's jealous. + Jealous of that he never durst deserve yet; + Goe freely, goe, I'll give thee leave. + + _Ru._ Your leave, Sir? + + _Arm._ Yes my leave Sir, I'll not be troubled neither, + Nor shall my heart ake, or my head be jealous, + Nor strange suspitious thoughts reign in my memory; + Go on, and do thy worst, I'll smile at thee; + I kiss your fair hand first, then farewel Captain. [_Exit._ + + _Quisar._ What a pure soul inherits here! what innocence! + Sure I was blind when I first lov'd this fellow, + And long to live in that fogg still: how he blusters! + + _Ru._ Am I your property? or those your flatteries, + The banquets that ye bid me to, the trust + I build my goodly hopes on? + + _Quisar._ Be more temperate. + + _Ru._ Are these the shews of your respect and favour? + What did he here, what language had he with ye? + Did ye invite? could ye stay no longer? + Is he so gracious in your eye? + + _Quisar._ You are too forward. + + _Ru._ Why at these private hours? + + _Quisar._ You are too saucy, + Too impudent to task me with those errors. + Do ye know what I am Sir, and my prerogative? + Though you be a thing I have call'd by th' name of friend, + I never taught you to dispose my liberty; + How durst you touch mine honor? blot my meanings? + And name an action, and of mine but noble? + Thou poor unworthy thing, how have I grac'd thee! + How have I nourisht thee, and raised thee hourly! + Are these the gratitudes you bring _Ruy Dias_? + The thanks? the services? I am fairly paid; + Was't not enough I saw thou wert a Coward, + And shaddowed thee? no noble sparkle in thee? + Daily provok'd thee, and still found thee coward? + Rais'd noble causes for thee, strangers started at; + Yet still, still, still a Coward, ever Coward; + And with those taints, dost thou upbraid my virtues? + + _Ruy._ I was too blame + Lady. + + _Quisar._ So blindly bold to touch at my behaviour? + Durst thou but look amiss at my allowance? + If thou hadst been a brave fellow, thou hadst had some licence + Some liberty I might have then allowed thee + For thy good face, some scope to have argued with me; + But being nothing but a sound, a shape, + The meer sign of a Soldier--of a Lover. + The dregs and draffy part, disgrace and jealousie, + I scorn thee; and contemn thee. + + _Ru._ Dearest Lady, + If I have been too free-- + + _Quisar._ Thou hast been too foolish, + And go on still, I'll study to forget thee, + I would I could, and yet I pity thee. [_Exit._ + + _Ru._ I am not worth it, if I were, that's misery, + The next door is but death, I must aim at it. [_Exit._ + + + + + _Actus Quartus. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter King and Governor, like a Moor-Priest._ + + _Kin._ So far and truly you have discovered to me + The former currents of my life and fortune, + That I am bound to acknowledge ye most holy, + And certainly to credit your predictions, + Of what are yet to come. + + _Gov._ I am no lyer, + 'Tis strange I should, and live so near a neighbor; + But these are not my ends. + + _Kin._ Pray ye sit good father, + Certain a reverend man, and most religious. + + _Gov._ I, that belief's well now, and let me work then, + I'll make ye curse Religion e'er I leave ye: + I have liv'd a long time Son, a mew'd up man, + Sequester'd by the special hand of Heaven + From the worlds vanities, bid farewel to follies, + And shook hands with all heats of youth and pleasures, + As in a dream these twenty years I have slumber'd, + Many a cold Moon have I, in meditation + And searching out the hidden Wils of heaven, + Lain shaking under; many a burning Sun + Has sear'd my body, and boil'd up my blood, + Feebl'd my knees, and stampt a Meagerness + Upon my figure, all to find out knowledge, + Which I have now attained to, thanks to heaven, + All for my countreys good too: and many a vision, + Many a mistick vision have I seen Son. + And many a sight from heaven which has been terrible, + Wherein the Goods and Evils of these Islands + Were lively shadowed; many a charge I have had too, + Still as the time grew ripe to reveal these, + To travel and discover, now I am come Son, + The hour is now appointed, + My tongue is touch'd, and now I speak. + + _Kin._ Do Holy man, I'll hear ye. + + _Gov._ Beware these _Portugals_; I say beware 'em, + These smooth-fac'd strangers; have an eye upon 'em. + The cause is now the God's, hear, and believe King. + + _King._ I do hear, but before I give rash credit, + Or hang too light on belief, which is a sin, father; + Know I have found 'em gentle, faithful, valiant, + And am in my particular, bound to 'em, + I mean to some for my most strange deliverance. + + _Gov._ Oh Son, the future aims of men, observe me, + Above their present actions, and their glory, + Are to be look'd at, the Stars shew many turnings, + If you could see, mark but with my eyes, pupil; + These men came hither, as my vision tells me, + Poor weather-beaten, almost lost, starv'd, feebled, + Their vessels like themselves, most miserable; + Made a long sute for traffique, and for comfort, + To vent their childrens toys, cure their diseases: + They had their sute, they landed, and to th' rate + Grew rich and powerful, suckt the fat, and freedom + Of this most blessed Isle, taught her to tremble, + Witness the Castle here, the Citadel, + They have clapt upon the neck of your _Tidore_, + This happy Town, till that she knew these strangers, + To check her when she's jolly. + + _King._ They have so indeed Father. + + _Gov._ Take heed, take heed, I find your fair delivery, + Though you be pleas'd to glorifie that fortune, + And think these strangers gods, take heed I say, + I find it but a handsome preparation, + A fair-fac'd Prologue to a further mischief: + Mark but the end good King, the pin he shoots at + That was the man deliver'd ye; the mirror, + Your Sister is his due; what's she, your heir, Sir? + And what's he a kin then to the kingdom? + But heirs are not ambitious, who then suffers? + What reverence shall the gods have? and what justice + The miserable people? what shall they do? + + _King._ He points at truth directly. + + _Gov._ Think of these Son: + The person, nor the manner I mislike not + Of your preserver, nor the whole man together, + Were he but season'd in the Faith we are, + In our Devotions learn'd. + + _King._ You say right Father. + + _Gov._ To change our Worships now, and our Religion? + To be traytor to our God? + + _King._ You have well advised me, + And I will seriously consider Father, + In the mean time you shall have your fair access + Unto my Sister, advise her to your purpose, + And let me still know how the gods determine. + + _Gov._ I will, but my main end is to advise + The destruction of you all, a general ruine, + And when I am reveng'd, let the gods whistle. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Ruy Dias, _and_ Pyniero. + + _Ruy._ Indeed, I am right glad ye were not greedy, + And sudden in performing what I will'd you, + Upon the person of _Armusia_, + I was afraid, for I well knew your valour, + And love to me. + + _Py._ 'Twas not a fair thing, Uncle, + It shew'd not handsome, carried no man in it. + + _Ruy._ I must confess 'twas ill; and I abhor it, + Only this good has risen from this evil; + I have tried your honesty, and find proof, + A constancy that will not be corrupted, + And I much honor it. + + _Py._ This Bell sounds better. + + _Ruy._ My anger now, and that disgrace I have suffer'd, + Shall be more manly vented, and wip'd off, + And my sick honor cur'd the right and straight way; + My Sword's in my hand now Nephew, my cause upon it, + And man to man, one valour to another, + My hope to his. + + _Py._ Why? this is like _Ruy Dias_? + This carries something of some substance in it; + Some mettle and some man, this sounds a Gentleman; + And now methinks ye utter what becomes ye; + To kill men scurvily, 'tis such a dog-trick, + Such a Rat-catchers occupation-- + + _Ru._ It is no better, + But _Pyniero_, now-- + + _Py._ Now you do bravely. + + _Ru._ The difference of our States flung by, forgotten, + The full opinion I have won in service, + And such respects that may not shew us equal, + Laid handsomly aside, only our fortunes, + And single manhoods-- + + _Py._ In a service, Sir, + Of this most noble nature, all I am, + If I had ten lives more, those and my fortunes + Are ready for ye, I had thought ye had forsworn fighting, + Or banish'd those brave thoughts were wont to wait upon you; + I am glad to see 'em call'd home agen. + + _Ruy._ They are Nephew, + And thou shalt see what fire they carry in them, + Here, you guess what this means. [_Shews a challenge._ + + _Py._ Yes very well, Sir, + A portion of Scripture that puzles many an interpreter. + + _Ruy._ As soon as you can find him-- + + _Py._ That will not be long Uncle, + And o' my conscience he'll be ready as quickly. + + _Ruy._ I make no doubt good Nephew, carry it so + If you can possible, that we may fight. + + _Py._ Nay you shall fight, assure your self. + + _Ru._ Pray ye hear me + In some such place where it may be possible + The Princess may behold us. + + _Py._ I conceive ye, + Upon the sand behind the Castle, Sir, + A place remote enough, and there be windows + Out of her Lodgings too, or I am mistaken. + + _Ruy._ Y'are i'th' right, if ye can work that handsomly-- + + _Py._ Let me alone, and pray be you prepar'd + Some three hours hence. + + _Ruy._ I will not fail. + + _Py._ Get you home, + And if you have any things to dispose of, + Or a few light prayers + That may befriend you, run 'em over quickly, + I warrant I'll bring him on. + + _Ruy._ Farewel Nephew, + And when we meet again-- + + _Py._ I, I, fight handsomly; + Take a good draught or two of Wine to settle ye, + Tis an excellent armour for an ill conscience, Uncle; + I am glad to see this mans conversion, + I was afraid fair honor had been bed-rid, + Or beaten out o' th' Island, soldiers, and good ones, + Intended such base courses? he will fight now; + And I believe too bravely; I have seen him + Curry a fellows carkasse handsomely: + And in the head of a troop, stand as if he had been rooted there, + Dealing large doles of death; what a rascal was I + I did not see his Will drawn! + What does she here? + + _Enter_ Quisara. + + If there be any mischief towards, a woman makes one still; + Now what new business is for me? + + _Quisar._ I was sending for ye, + But since we have met so fair, + You have say'd that labour; I must intreat you, Sir-- + + _Py._ Any thing Madam, + Your Wils are my Commands. + + _Quisar._ Y'are nobly courteous; + Upon my better thoughts Signior _Pyniero_, + And my more peaceable considerations, + Which now I find the richer ornaments; + I wou'd desire you to attempt no farther + Against the person of the noble stranger, + In truth I am asham'd of my share in't; + Nor be incited farther by your Uncle, + I see it will sit ill upon your person; + I have considered, and it will shew ugly, + Carried at best, a most unheard of cruelty; + Good Sir desist-- + + _Py._ You speak now like a woman, + And wondrous well this tenderness becomes ye; + But this you must remember--your command + Was laid on with a kiss, and seriously + It must be taken off the same way, Madam, + Or I stand bound still. + + _Quisar._ That shall not endanger ye, + Look ye fair Sir, thus I take off that duty. + + _Py._ By th' mass 'twas soft and sweet, + Some bloods would bound now, + And run a tilt; do not you think bright beauty; + You have done me in this kiss, a mighty favour, + And that [I stand] bound by virtue of this honor, + To do what ever you command me? + + _Quisar._ I think Sir, + From me these are unusual courtesies, + And ought to be respected so; there are some, + And men of no mean rank, would hold themselves + Not poorly blest to taste of such a bounty. + + _Py._ I know there are, that wou'd do many unjust things + For such a kiss, and yet I hold this modest; + All villanies, body and soul dispense with, + For such a provocation, kill their kindred, + Demolish the fair credits of their Parents; + Those kisses I am not acquainted with, most certain Madam, + The appurtenance of this kiss wou'd not provoke me + To do a mischief, 'tis the devils own dance, + To be kiss'd into cruelty. + + _Quisar._ I am glad you make that use Sir. + + _Py._ I am gladder + That you made me believe you were cruel, + For by this hand, I know I am so honest, + However I deceiv'd ye, 'twas high time too, + Some common slave might have been set upon it else; + That willingly I wou'd not kill a dog + That could but fetch and carry for a woman, + She must be a good woman made me kick him, + And that will be hard to find, to kill a man, + If you will give me leave to get another, + Or any she that plaid the best game at it, + And 'fore a womans anger, prefer her fancy. + + _Quisar._ I take it in you well. + + _Py._ I thank ye Lady, + And I shall study to confirm it. + + _Quisar._ Do Sir, + For this time, and this present cause, I allow it, + Most holy Sir. + + _Enter Governor_, Quisana, _and_ Panura. + + _Gov._ Bless ye my Royal Daughter, + And in you, bless this Island Heaven. + + _Quisar._ Good Aunt, + What think ye of this man? + + _Quisan._ Sure h' is a wise man, + And a Religious, he tells us things have hapened + So many years ago, almost forgotten, + As readily as if they were done this hour. + + _Quisar._ Does he not meet with your sharp tongue? + + _Pan._ He tells me Madam, + Marriage, and mouldy Cheese will make me tamer. + + _Gov._ A stubborn keeper, and worse fare, + An open stable, and cold care, + Will tame a Jade, may be your share. + + _Pan._ Bir Lady, a sharp prophet, when this proves good, + I'll bequeath you a skin to make ye a Hood. + + _Gov._ Lady, I would talk with you. + + _Quisar._ Do reverend Sir. + + _Gov._ And for your good, for that that must concern ye, + And give ear wisely to me. + + _Quisar._ I shall father. + + _Gov._ You are a Princess of that excellence, + Sweetness, and grace, that Angel-like fair feature, + Nay, do not blush, I do not flatter you, + Nor do I dote in telling this, I am amazed Lady, + And as I think the gods bestow'd these on ye, + The gods that love ye. + + _Quisar._ I confess their bounty. + + _Gov._ Apply it then to their use, to their honor, + To them, and to their service give this sweetness; + They have an instant great use of your goodness; + You are a Saint esteem'd here for your beauty, + And many a longing heart-- + + _Quisar._ I seek no fealty, + Nor will I blemish that, heaven has seal'd on me, + I know my worth, indeed the _Portugals_ + I have at those commands, and their last services, + Nay, even their lives, so much I think my handsomness, + That what I shall enjoyn-- + + _Gov._ Use it discreetly. + For I perceive ye understand me rightly, + For here the gods regard your help, and suddainly; + The _Portugals_, like sharp thorns (mark me Lady) + Stick in our sides, like Razors, wound Religion, + Draw deep, they wound, till the Life-bloud follows, + Our gods they spurn at, and their worships scorn, + A mighty hand they bear upon our government, + These are the men your miracle must work on, + Your heavenly form, either to root them out, + Which as you may endeavour will be easie, + Remember whose great cause you have to execute, + To nip their memory, that may not spring more, + Or fairly bring 'em home to our devotions, + Which will be blessed, and for which you sainted, + But cannot be, and they go; let me buzle. + + _Quisar._ Go up with me, + Where we'll converse more privately; + I'll shew ye shortly how I hold their temper; + And in what chain thir souls. + + _Gov._ Keep fast that hold still, + And either bring that chain, and those bound in it, + And link it to our gods, and their fair worships. + Or Daughter, pinch their hearts apieces with it, + I'll wait upon your grace. + + _Quisar._ Come reverend father. + Wait you below. [_Ex._ Quisar. _and Gov._ + + _Pan._ If this Prophet were a young thing, + I should suspect him now, he cleaves so close to her; + These holy Coats are long, and hide iniquities. + + _Quisan._ Away, away fool, a poor wretch. + + _Pan._ These poor ones + Warm but their stomachs once-- + + _Quisan._ Come in, thou art foolish. [_Ex._ Quisania _and_ Panura. + + _Enter_ Armusia, Emanuel, _and_ Pyniero. + + _Arm._ I am sorry, Sir, my fortune is so stubborn, + To court my sword against my Countreyman; + I love my Nation well, and where I find + A _Portugal_ of noble Name and Virtue, + I am his humble servant, Signior _Pyniero_, + Your person, nor your Uncles am I angry with, + You are both fair Gentlemen in my opinion, + And I protest, I had rather use my sword + In your defences, than against your safeties; + 'Tis methinks a strange dearth of enemies, + When we seek foes among our selves. + + _Em._ You are injured, + And you must make the best on't now, and readiest-- + + _Arm._ You see I am ready in the place, and arm'd + To his desire that call'd me. + + _Py._ Ye speak honestly, + And I could wish ye had met on terms more friendly, + But it cannot now be so. + + _Enter_ Ruy Dias. + + _Em._ Turn Sir, and see. + + _Py._ I have kept my word with ye Uncle, + The Gentleman is ready. + + _Enter Governor, and_ Quisara _above_. + + _Arm._ Ye are welcome. + + _Ru._ Bid those fools welcome, that affect your courtesie, + I come not to use compliment, ye have wrong'd me, + And ye shall feel, proud man, e'r I part from ye, + The effects of that, if fortune do not fool me; + Thy life is mine, and no hope shall redeem thee. + + _Arm._ That's a proud word, + More than your faith can justifie. + + _Quisar._ Sure they will fight. + + _Ruy._ She's there, I am happy. + + _Gov._ Let 'em alone, let 'em kill one another, + These are the main posts, if they fall, the buildings + Will tumble quickly. + + _Quisar._ How temperate _Armusia_! + No more, be quiet yet. + + _Arm._ I am not bloody, + Nor do not feel such mortal malice in me, + But since we cannot both enjoy the Princess, + I am resolv'd to fight. + + _Ruy._ Fight home _Armusia_, + For if thou faint'st, or fall'st-- + + _Arm._ Do ye make all vantages? + + _Ruy._ Always; unto thy life I will not spare thee, + Nor look not for thy mercy. + + _Arm._ I am arm'd then. + + _Ruy._ Stand still I charge ye Nephew, as ye honor me. + + _Arm._ And good _Emanuel_ stir not-- + + _Py._ Ye speak fitly, + For we had not stood idle else. + + _Gov._ I am sorry for't. + + _Em._ But since you will have it so-- + + _Ruy._ Come Sir. + + _Arm._ I wait ye. + + _Py._ I marry, this looks handsomely, + This is warm work. + + _Gov._ Both fall and't be thy Will. [Ruy _falls_. + + _Py._ My Uncle dead? + + _Em._ Stand still, or my swords in-- + + _Arm._ Now brave _Ruy Dias_, + Now where's your confidence, your prayers? quickly + Your own spite has condemn'd ye. + + _Quisar._ Hold _Armusia_. + + _Ar._ Most happy Lady. + + _Quisar._ Hold, and let him rise, + Spare him for me. + + _Ar._ A long life may he enjoy, Lady. + + _Gov._ What ha you done? 'tis better they had all perisht. + + _Quisar._ Peace father, I work for the best; _Armusia_, + Be in the Garden an hour hence. [_Ex._ Qu. _and Gov._ + + _Ar._ I shall Madam. + + _Py._ Now as I live, a Gentleman at all inches, + So brave a mingled temper saw I never. + + _Ar._ Why are ye sad Sir? how would this have griev'd you, + If ye had fall'n under a profest enemy? + Under one had taken vantage of your shame too? + Pray ye be at peace, I am so far from wronging ye, + Or glorying in the pride of such a victory, + That I desire to serve ye, pray look chearfully. + + _Py._ Do you hear this Sir? this love Sir? do you see this Gentleman + How he courts ye? why do you hold your head down? + 'Tis no high Treason, I take it, to be equall'd; + To have a slip i' th field, no sin, that's mortal; + Come, come, thank fortune and your friend. + + _Ar._ It may be + You think my tongue may prove your enemy; + And though restrain'd sometimes, out of a bravery, + May take a License to disable ye: + Believe me Sir, so much I hate that liberty, + That in a strangers tongue, 'twill prove an injury, + And I shall right you in't. + + _Py._ Can you have more, Uncle? + + _Ru._ Sir, you have beat me both ways, yet so nobly, + That I shall ever love the hand that did it: + Fortune may make me worthy of some title + That may be near your friend, + + _Ar._ Sir, I must leave ye, + But with so hearty love; and pray be confident, + I carry nothing from this place shall wrong ye. [_Exit_ Arm. _and_ Em. + + _Py._ Come, come, you are right agen, Sir, love your honor, + And love your friend, take heed of bloody purposes, + And unjust ends, good heaven is angry with ye; + Make your fair virtues, and your fame your Mistriss, + And let these trinkets go. + + _Ru._ You teach well Nephew, + Now to be honourabl[e] even with this Gentleman, + Shall be my business, and my ends his. + + _Enter Governor and King._ + + _Gov._ Sir, Sir, you must do something suddainly, + To stop his pride so great and high, he is shot up, + Upon his person too, your state is sunk else: + You must not stand now upon terms of gratitude, + And let a simple tenderness besot ye: + I'll bring ye suddenly where you shall see him, + Attempting your brave Sister, privately, + Mark but his high behaviour then. + + _King._ I will Father. + + _Gov._ And with scorn, I fear contempt too. + + _King._ I hope not. + + _Gov._ I will not name a lust; + It may be that also; + A little force must be applyed upon him, + Now, now applyed, a little force to humble him. + These sweet intreaties do but make him wanton. + + _King._ Take heed ye wrong him not. + + _Gov._ Take heed to your safety, + I but forewarn ye King; if you mistrust me, + Or think I come un-sent-- + + _King._ No, I'll go with you. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Armusia, Quisara. + + _Arm._ Madam, you see there's nothing I can reach at, + Either in my obedience, or my service, + That may deserve your love, or win a liking, + But a poor thought, but I pursue it seriously, + Take pleasure in your Will, even in your anger, + Which other men would grudge at, and grow stormy; + I study new humility to please ye, + And take a kind of joy in my afflictions, + Because they come from ye, I love my sorrows: + Pray Madam but consider-- + + _Quisar._ Yes, I do Sir, + And to that honest end I drew thee hither; + I know ye have deserv'd as much as man can, + And know it is a justice to requite you: + I know ye love. + + _Arm._ If ever love was mortal, + And dwelt in man, and for that love command me, + So strong I find it, and so true, here Lady, + Something of such a greatness to allow me, + Those things I have done already, may seem foyls too: + 'Tis equity that man aspires to heaven, + Should win it by his worth, and not sleep to it. + + _Enter Governor, and King._ + + _Gov._ Now stand close King and hear, and as you find him, + Believe me right, or let Religion suffer. + + _Quisar._ I dare believe your worth without additions; + But since you are so liberal of your love Sir, + And wou'd be farther tried, I do intend it, + Because you shall not, or you wou'd not win me + At such an easie rate. + + _Arm._ I am prepared still, + And if I shrink-- + + _Quisar._ I know ye are no coward, + This is the utmost trial of your constancy, + And if you stand fast now, I am yours, your wife Sir; + You hold there's nothing dear that may atchieve me, + Doubted or dangerous. + + _Arm._ There's nothing, nothing: + Let me but know, that I may straight flie to it. + + _Quisar._ I'll tell you then, change your Religion. + And be of one belief with me. + + _Arm._ How? + + _Quisar._ Mark, + Worship our Gods, renounce that faith ye are bred in; + 'Tis easily done, I'll teach ye suddenly; + And humbly on your knees-- + + _Arm._ Ha? I'll be hang'd first. + + _Quisar._ Offer as we do. + + _Arm._ To the devil Lady? + Offer to him I hate? I know the devil. + To dogs and cats? you make offer to them; + To every bird that flies, and every worm. + How terribly I shake! Is this the venture? + The trial that you talk'd of? where have I been? + And how forgot my self? how lost my memory? + When did I pray, or look up stedfastly? + Had any goodness in my heart to guide me? + That I should give this vantage to mine enemy; + The enemy to my peace, forsake my faith? + + _Quisar._ Come, come, I know ye love me. + + _Arm._ Love ye this way? + This most destroying way? sure you but jest, Lady. + + _Quisar._ My Love and Life are one way. + + _Arm._ Love alone then, and mine another way, + I'll love diseases first, + Doat on a villain that would cut my throat, + Wooe all afflictions of all sorts, kiss cruelty. + Have mercy heaven, how have I been wand'ring! + Wand'ring the way of Lust, and left my Maker! + How have I slept like Cork upon a water, + And had no feeling of the storm that tost me! + Trode the blind paths of death! forsook assurance, + Eternity of blessedness for a woman! + For a young handsome face, hazard my Being! + + _Quisar._ Are not our powers eternal, so their comforts? + As great and full of hopes as yours? + + _Arm._ They are puppets. + + _Gov._ Now mark him Sir, and but observe him nearly. + + _Ar._ Their comforts like themselves, cold, sensless outsides; + You make 'em sick, as we are, peevish, mad, + Subject to age; and how can they cure us, + That are not able to refine themselves? + + _Quis._ The Sun and Moon we worship, those are heavenly, + And their bright influences we believe. + + _Arm._ Away fool, + I adore the Maker of that Sun and Moon, + That gives those bodies light and influence; + That pointed out their paths, and taught their motions; + They are not so great as we, they are our servants, + Plac'd there to teach us time, to give us knowledge + Of when and how the swellings of the main are, + And their returns agen; they are but our Stewards + To make the earth fat, with their influence, + That she may bring forth her increase, and feed us. + Shall I fall from this faith to please a woman? + For her embraces bring my soul to ruin? + I look'd you should have said, make me a _Christian_, + Work that great cure, for 'tis a great one woman; + That labor truly to perform, that venture, + The crown of all great trial, and the fairest: + I look'd ye should have wept and kneel'd to beg it, + Washt off your mist of ignorance, with waters + Pure and repentant, from those eyes; I look'd + You should have brought me your chief god ye worship, + He that you offer humane bloud and life to, + And make a sacrifice of him to memory, + Beat down his Altars, ruin'd his false Temples. + + _Gov._ Now you may see. + + _Quisar._ Take heed, you goe too far, Sir, + And yet I love to hear him, I must have ye, + And to that end I let you storm a little; + I know there must be some strife in your bosom + To cool and quiet ye, e'r you can come back: + I know old friends cannot part suddainly, + There will be some left still, yet I must have ye, + Have ye of my faith too, and so enjoy ye. + + _Arm._ Now I contemn ye, and I hate my self + For looking on that face lasciviously, + And it looks ugly now me thinks. + + _Quisar._ How _Portugal_? + + _Arm._ It looks like death it self, to which 'twou'd lead me; + Your eyes resemble pale dispair, they fright me, + And in their rounds, a thousand horrid ruins, + Methinks I see; and in your tongue hear fearfully + The hideous murmurs of weak souls have suffer'd; + Get from me, I despise ye; and know woman, + That for all this trap you have laid to catch my life in, + To catch my immortal life, I hate and curse ye, + Contemn your Deities, spurn at their powers, + And where I meet your _Mahumet_ gods, I'll swing 'em + Thus o'r my head, and kick 'em into puddles, + Nay, I will out of vengeance search your Temples. + And with those hearts that serve my God, demolish + Your shambles of wild worships. + + _Gov._ Now, now you hear Sir. + + _Arm._ I will have my faith, since you are so crafty, + The glorious cross, although I love your brother; + Let him frown too, I will have my devotion, + And let your whole State storm. + + _King._ Enter and take him; + I am sorry friend that I am forc'd to do this. + + _Gov._ Be sure you bind him fast. + + _Quisar._ But use him nobly. + + _King._ Had it to me been done, I had forgiven it, + And still preserv'd you fair, but to our gods Sir-- + + _Quisar._ Methinks I hate 'em now. + + _King._ To our Religion, + To these to be thus stubborn, thus rebellious + To threaten them. + + _Arm._ Use all your violence, + I ask no mercy, nor repent my words: + I spit at your best powers; I serve one, + Will give me strength to scourge your gods. + + _Gov._ Away with him. + + _Arm._ To grind 'em into base dust, and disperse 'em, + That never more their bloudy memories-- + + _Gov._ Clap him close up. + + _King._ Good friend be cooler. + + _Arm._ Never; + Your painted Sister I despise too. + + _King._ Softly. + + _Arm._ And all her devilish Arts laugh and scorn at, + Mock her blind purposes. + + _King._ You must be temperate; + Offer him no violence, I command you strictly. + + _Gov._ Now thou art up, I shall have time to speak too. + + _Quisar._ Oh how I love this man, how truly honor him. [_Exeunt._ + + + + + _Actus Quintus. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter_ Christophero, _and_ Pedro (_at one door_) Emanuel, _and_ + Soza, (_at another_). + + _Chr._ Do you know the news Gentlemen? + + _Em._ Wou'd we knew as well, Sir, + How to prevent it. + + _Soz._ Is this the love they bear us, + For our late benefit? taken so maliciously, + And clapt up close? is that the thanks they render? + + _Ch._ It must not be put up thus, smother'd slightly, + 'Tis such a base unnatural wrong. + + _Ped._ I know, + They may think to doe wonders, aim at all, + And to blow us with a vengeance, out o'th' Islands: + But if we be our selves, honest and resolute, + And continue but Masters of our antient courages, + Stick close, and give no vantage to their villanies-- + + _Soz._ Nay, if we faint or fall apieces now, + We are fools, and worthy to be markt for misery; + Begin to strike at him, they are all bound too? + To cancel his deserts? what must we look for + If they can carry this? + + _Em._ I'll carry coals then; + I have but one life, and one fortune, Gentlemen, + But I'll so husband it to vex these rascals, + These barbarous slaves. + + _Ch._ Shall we go charge 'em presently? + + _Soz._ No, that will be too weak, and too fool-hardy, + We must have grounds, that promise safety, friends, + And sure offence, we lose our angers else, + And worse than that, venture our lives too lightly. + + _Enter_ Pyniero. + + _Py._ Did you see mine Uncle? plague o' these _Barbarians_, + How the rogues stick in my teeth, I know ye are angry, + So I am too, monstrous angry, Gentlemen, + I am angry, that I choak agen. + You hear _Armusia's_ up, honest _Arm_: + Clapt up in prison, friends, the brave _Arm_: + Here are fine boys. + + _Em._ We hope he shall not stay there. + + _Py._ Stay, no, he must not stay, no talk of staying, + These are no times to stay; are not these rascals? + Speak, I beseech ye speak, are they not Rogues? + Think some abominable names--are they not devils? + But the devil's a great deal too good for 'em--fusty villains. + + _Ch._ They are a kind of hounds. + + _Py._ Hounds were their fathers; + Old blear-ey'd bob-tail'd hounds--Lord, where's my Uncle? + + _Soz._ But what shall be done, Sir? + + _Py._ Done? + + _Soz._ Yes, to relieve him; + If it be not sudden they may take his life too. + + _Py._ They dare as soon take fire and swallow it, + Take stakes and thrust into their tails for glisters: + His life, why 'tis a thing worth all the Islands, + And they know will be rated at that value; + His very imprisonment will make the Town stink, + And shake and stink, I have physick in my hand for 'em + Shall give the goblins such a purge-- + + _Enter_ Ruy Dias. + + _Ped._ Your Uncle. + + _Ru._ I hear strange news, and have been seeking ye; + They say _Armusia_'s prisoner. + + _Py._ 'Tis most certain. + + _Ru._ Upon what cause? + + _Py._ He has deserv'd too much, Sir; + The old heathen policie has light upon him. + And paid him home. + + _Ru._ A most unnoble dealing. + + _Py._ You are the next, if you can carry it tamely, + He has deserved of all. + + _Ru._ I must confess it, + Of me so nobly too. + + _Py._ I am glad to hear it, + You have a time now to make good your confession, + Your faith will shew but cold else, and for fashion, + Now to redeem all, now to thank his courtesie, + Now to make those believe that held you backward, + And an ill instrument, you are a Gentleman, + An honest man, and you dare love your Natio[n], + Dare stick to virtue, though she be opprest, + And for her own fair sake, step to her rescue: + If you live ages, Sir, and lose this hour, + Not now redeem, and vindicate your honor + Your life will be a murmure, and no man in't. + + _Ru._ I thank ye nephew, come along with me Gentlemen, + We'll make 'em dancing sport immediately: + We are Masters of the Fort yet, we shall see + What that can do. + + _Py._ Let it but spit fire finely, + And play their turrets, and their painted Palaces, + A frisking round or two, that they may trip it; + And caper in the air. + + _Ru._ Come, we'll do something + Shall make 'em look about, we'll send 'em plums, + If they be not too hard for their teeth. + + _Py._ And fine Potatoes + Rosted in Gunpowder, such a Banquet, Sir + Will prepare their unmannerly stomachs. + + _Ru._ They shall see + There is no safe retreat in villany; + Come, be high-hearted all. + + _Omnes._ We are all on fire, Sir. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter King and Governor._ + + _King._ I am ungrateful, and a wretch, perswade me not, + Forgetful of the mercy he shew'd me, + The timely noble pity--why should I + See him fast bound and fetter'd, whose true courtesie, + Whose manhood, and whose mighty hand set me free? + Why should it come from me? why I command this? + Shall not all tongues and truths call me unthankful? + + _Gov._ Had the offence been thrown on you, 'tis certain + It had been in your power, and your discretion + To have turn'd it into mercy, and forgiven it, + And then it had shew'd a virtuous point of gratitude, + Timely, and nobly taken; but since the cause + Concerns the honor of our gods, and their Title, + And so transcends your power, and your compassion, + A little your own safety, if you saw it too, + If your too fond indulgence did not dazle you, + It cannot now admit a private pitty; + 'Tis in their Wills, their Mercies, or Revenges, + And these revolts in you, shew mere rebellions. + + _King._ They are mild and pittiful. + + _Gov._ To those repent. + + _King._ Their nature's soft and tender. + + _Gov._ To true hearts. + That feel compunction for their trespasses: + This man defies 'em still, threatens destruction + And demolition of their Arms and Worship, + Spits at their powers; take heed ye be not found, Sir, + And mark'd a favourer of their dishonor; + They use no common justice. + + _King._ What shall I do + To deserve of this man-- + + _Gov._ If ye more bemoan him, + Or mitigate your power to preserve him, + I'll curse ye from the gods, call up their vengeance. + + _Enter_ Quisara _with her hands bound_, Quisana, Panura. + + And fling it on your Land and you, I have charge [for't;] + I hope to wrack you all. + + _King._ What ails my Sister? + Why, is she bound? why looks she so distractedly? + Who does do this? + + _Quisan._ We did it, pardon Sir, + And for her preservation--She is grown wild, + And raving on the strangers love and honor, + Sometimes crying out help, help, they will torture him, + They will take his life, they will murder him presently, + If we had not prevented violently + Have laid hands on her own life. + + _Gov._ These are tokens, + The gods displeasure is gone out, be quick, + And e'r it fall, doe something to appease 'em. + You know the sacrifice--I am glad it works thus. + + _Quisa._ How low and base thou lookst now, that wert noble! + No figure of a King, methinks shews on you. + No face of Majesty, foul, swarth ingratitude + Has taken off thy sweetness, base forgetfulness + Of mighty benefits, has turned thee Devil: + Thou hast persecuted goodness, innocence; + And laid a hard and violent hand on virtue, + On that fair virtue that should teach and guide us; + Thou hast wrong'd thine own preserver, whose least merit, + Pois'd with thy main Estate, thou canst not satisfie, + Nay, put thy life in too, 'twill be too light still: + What hast thou done? + + _Gov._ Goe for him presently, + And once more we'll try if we can win him fairly: + If not, let nothing she says hinder ye, or stir ye; + She speaks distractedly--Do that the gods command ye, + Do you know what ye say Lady? + + _Quisar._ I could curse thee too, + Religion and severity has steel'd thee, + Has turn'd thy heart to stone; thou hast made the gods hard too, + Against their sweet and patient natures, cruel: + None of ye feel what bravery ye tread on? + What innocence? what beauty? + + _King._ Pray be patient. + + _Quisar._ What honourable things ye cast behind [ye]? + What monuments of man? + + _Enter_ Armusia _and Guard_. + + _King._ Once more _Armusia_, + Because I love ye tenderly and dearly, + And would be glad to win ye mine, I wish ye, + Even from my heart I wish and wooe ye-- + + _Ar._ What Sir, + Take heed how ye perswade me falsly, then ye hate me: + Take heed how ye intrap me. + + _King._ I advise ye, + And tenderly and truly I advise ye, + Both for your souls health, and your safety. + + _Ar._ Stay, + And name my soul no more, she is too precious, + Too glorious for you[r] flatteries, too secure too. + + _Gov._ Consider the reward, Sir, and the honor + That is prepared, the glory you shall grow to. + + _Arm._ They are not to be consider'd in these cases, + Not to be nam'd when souls are question'd; + They are vain and flying vapors--touch my life, + 'Tis ready for ye, put it to what test + It shall please ye, I am patient; but for the rest + You may remove Rocks with your little fingers, + Or blow a Mountain out o' th' way, with bellows, + As soon as stir my faith; use no more arguments. + + _Gov._ We must use tortures then. + + _Arm._ Your worst and painfull'st + I am joyful to accept. + + _Gov._ You must the sharpest, + For such has been your hate against our Deities + Delivered openly, your threats and scornings, + And either your repentance must be mighty, + Which is your free conversion to our customs, + Or equal punishment which is your life, Sir. + + _Arm._ I am glad I have it for ye, take it Priest, + And all the miseries that shall attend it: + Let the gods glut themselves with Christian bloud, + It will be ask'd again, and so far followed, + So far reveng'd, and with such holy justice, + Your gods of gold shall melt and sink before it; + Your Altars and your Temples shake to nothing; + And you false worshipers, blind fools of ceremony, + Shall seek for holes to hide your heads, and fears in, + For seas to swallow you from this destruction, + Darkness to dwell about ye, and conceal ye; + Your mothers womb agen-- + + _Gov._ Make the fires ready, + And bring the several tortures out. + + _Quisar._ Stand fast, Sir, + And fear 'em not, you that have stept so nobly + Into this pious Trial, start not now, + Keep on your way, a Virgin will assist ye, + A Virgin won by your fair constancy, + And glorying that she is won so, will dye by ye: + I have touch'd ye every way, tried ye most honest, + Perfect, and good, chaste, blushing chaste, and temperate, + Valiant, without vain-glory, modest, stayed, + No rage, or light affection ruling in you: + Indeed, the perfect school of worth I find ye, + The temple of true honor. + + _Arm._ Whether will she? + What do you infer by this fair argument, Lady? + + _Quisar._ Your Faith, and your Religion must be like ye, + They that can shew you these, must be pure mirrors, + When the streams flow clear and fair, what are the fountains? + I do embrace your faith, Sir, and your fortune; + Go on, I will assist ye, I feel a sparkle here, + A lively spark that kindles my affection, + And tells me it will rise to flames of glory: + Let 'em put on their angers, suffer nobly, + Shew me the way, and when I faint, instruct me; + And if I follow not-- + + _Arm._ Oh blessed Lady, + Since thou art won, let me begin my triumph, + Come clap your terrors on. + + _Quisar._ All your fell tortures. + For there is nothing he shall suffer, brother, + I swear by a new faith, which is most sacred, + And I will keep it so, but I will follow in, + And follow to a scruple of affliction, + In spight of all your gods without prevention. + + _Gov._ Death! she amazes me. + + _King._ What shall be done now? + + _Gov._ They must dye both, + And suddenly, they will corrupt all else; + This woman makes me weary of my mischief, + She shakes me, and she staggers me, go in Sir, + I'll see the execution. + + _Kin._ Not so suddain: + If they go, all my Friends and Sisters perish. + + _Gov._ Wou'd I were safe at home agen. + + _Enter Messenger._ + + _Mes._ Arm, arm, Sir, + Seek for defence, the Castle plays and thunders, + The Town Rocks, and the houses fly i' th' air, + The people dye for fear--Captain _Ruy Dias_, + Has made an oath he will not leave a stone here; + No, not the memory, here has stood a City, + Unless _Armusia_ be deliver'd fairly. + + _King._ I have my fears: what can our gods do now for us? + + _Gov._ Be patient, but keep him still: he is a cure, Sir, + Against both Rage and Cannon: goe and fortifie, + Call in the Princess, make the Palace sure, + And let 'em know you are a King: look nobly; + And take you[r] courage to ye; keep close the prisoner, + And under command, we are betraid else. + + _Ar._ How joyfully I goe! + + _Quisar._ Take my heart with thee. + + _Gov._ I hold a Wolf by the ear now: + Fortune free me. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter four Towns-men._ + + _1._ Heaven bless us, + What a thund'ring's here! what fire-spitting! + We cannot drink, but our Cans are mauld amongst us. + + _2._ I wou'd they would mall our scores too: + Shame o' their Guns, I thought they had been bird-pots, + Or great Candle-cases, how devilishly they bounce, + And how the Bullets borrow a piece of a house here, + There another, and mend those up agen + With another Parish; here flies a poudring-tub, + The meat ready rosted, and there a barrel pissing vinegar, + And they two over-taking the top of a high Steeple, + Newly slic'd off for a Sallet. + + _3._ A vengeance fire 'em. + + _2._ Nay, they fire fast enough; + You need not help 'em. + + _4._ Are these the _Portugal_ Bulls-- + How loud they bellow! + + _2._ Their horns are plaguy strong, they push down Palaces + They toss our little habitations like whelps, + Like grindle-tails, with their heels upward; + All the windows i'th Town dance a new Trenchmore, + 'Tis like to prove a blessed age for Glasiers, + I met a hand, and a Letter in't, in great haste, + And by and by, a single leg running after it, + As if the arm had forgot part of his errand, + Heads flie like Foot-balls every where. + + _1._ What shall we do? + + _2._ I care not, my shop's cancell'd, + And all the Pots, and earthen Pans in't vanish't: + There was a single Bullet, and they together by the ears; + You would have thought _Tom Tumbler_ had been there, + And all his troop of devils. + + _3._ Let's to the King, + And get this Gentleman deliver'd handsomly: + By this hand, there's no walking above ground else. + + _2._ By this leg--let me swear nimbly by it, + For I know not how long I shall owe it, + If I were out o'th' Town once, if I came in agen to + Fetch my breakfast, I will give 'em leave to cramm me + With a _Portugal_ Pudding: Come; let's doe any thing + To appease this thunder. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Pyniero _and_ Panura. + + _Py._ Art sure it was that blind Priest? + + _Pan._ Yes most certain, + He has provok'd all this; the King is merciful, + And wond'rous loving; but he fires him on still, + And when he cools, enrages him, I know it: + Threatens new vengeance, and the gods fierce justice + When he but looks with fair eyes on _Armusia_, + Will lend him no time to relent; my royal Mistriss, + She has entertain'd a _Christian_ hope. + + _Py._ Speak truly. + + _Pan._ Nay, 'tis most true, but Lord! how he lies at her, + And threatens her, and flatters her, and damns her, + And I fear, if not speedily prevented, + If she continue stout, both shall be executed, + + _Py._ I'll kiss thee for this news, nay more _Panura_, + If thou wilt give me leave I'll get thee with _Christian_, + The best way to convert thee. + + _Pan._ Make me believe so? + + _Py._ I will y'faith. But which way cam'st thou hither? + The Pallace is close guarded, and barricado'd. + + _Pan._ I came through a private vault, which few there know of; + It rises in a Temple not far hence, + Close by the Castle here. + + _Py._ How--To what end? + + _Pan._ A good one: + To give ye knowledge of my new-born Mistriss; + And in what doubt _Armusia_ stands, + Think any present means, or hope to stop 'em + From their fell ends: the Princes are come in too, + And they are harden'd also. + + _Py._ The damn'd Priest-- + + _Pan._ Sure he's a cruel man, methinks Religion + Should teach more temperate Lessons. + + _Py._ He the fire-brand? + He dare to touch at such fair lives as theirs are? + Well Prophet, I shall prophesie, I shall catch ye, + When all your Prophecies will not redeem ye? + Wilt thou do one thing bravely? + + _Pa._ Any good I am able. + + _Py._ And by thine own white hand, I'll swear thou art virtuous, + And a brave wench, durst thou but guide me presently, + Through the same vault thou cam'st, into the Pallace + And those I shall appoint, such as I think fit. + + _Pa._ Yes I will do it, and suddainly, and truly. + + _Py._ I wou'd fain behold this Prophet. + + _Pa._ Now I have ye: + And shall bring ye where ye shall behold him, + Alone too, and unfurnish'd of defences: + That shall be my care; but you must not betray me. + + _Py._ Dost thou think we are so base, such slaves, rogues? + + _Pa._ I do not: + And you shall see how fairly I'll work for ye. + + _Py._ I must needs steal that Priest, + Steal him, and hang him. + + _Pa._ Do any thing to remove his mischief, strangle him-- + + _Py._ Come prethee love. + + _Pa._ You'll offer me no foul play? + The Vault is dark. + + _Py._ 'Twas well remember'd. + + _Pa._ And ye may-- + But I hold ye honest. + + _Py._ Honest enough I warrant thee. + + _Pa._ I am but a poor weak wench; and what with the place, + And your perswasions Sir--but I hope you will not; + You know we are often cozen'd. + + _Py._ If thou dost fear me, + Why dost thou put me in mind? + + _Pa._ To let you know Sir, + Though it be in your power, and things fitting to it, + Yet a true Gent-- + + _Py._ I know what he'll do: + Come and remember me, and I'll answer thee, + I'll answer thee to the full; we'll call at th' Castle, + And then my good guide, do thy Will; sha't find me + A very tractable man! + + _Pa._ I hope I shall Sir. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Bakam, Syana, _and Soldiers_. + + _Bak._ Let my men guard the Gates. + + _Syan._ And mine the Temple, + For fear the honor of our gods should suffer, + And on your lives be watchful. + + _Ba._ And be valiant; + And let's see, if these _Portugals_ dare enter; + What their high hearts dare do: Let's see how readily, + The great _Ruy Dias_ will redeem his Countrey-men; + He speaks proud words, and threatens. + + _Sy._ He is approv'd, Sir, + And will put fair for what he promises; + I could wish friendlier terms, + Yet for our liberties and for our gods, + We are bound in our best service + Even in the hazard of our lives. + + _Enter the King above._ + + _King._ Come up Princes, + And give your counsels, and your helps: the Fort still + Plays fearfully upon us, beats our buildings, + And turns our people wild with fears. + + _Ba._ Send for the prisoner, + And give us leave to argue. [_Exit_ Ba. _and_ Sy. _then_, + + _Enter_ Ruy Dias, Emanuel, Christoph. Pedro, _with Sold_. + + _Ru._ Come on nobly, + And let the Fort play still, we are + Strong enough to look upon 'em, + And return at pleasure; it may + Be on our view they will return him. + + _Chr._ We will return 'em such thanks else, + Shall make 'em scratch where it itches not. + + _Em._ How the people stare, + And some cry, some pray, and some curse heartily: + But it is the King-- + + _Enter_ Syana, Bakam, Quisara, Armusia, _with Soldiers above_. + + _Ruy._ I cannot blame their wisdoms. + They are all above, _Armusia_ chain'd and bound too? + Oh, these are tha[n]kful Squires. + + _Ba._ Hear us _Ruy Di[a]s_, + Be wise and hear us, and give speedy answer, + Command thy Cannon presently to cease, + No more to trouble the afflicted people, + Or suddainly _Armusia's_ head goes off; + As suddainly as said. + + _Em._ Stay Sir, be moderate. + + _Arm._ Do nothing that's dishonourable _Ruy Dyas_ + Let not the fear of me, master thy valour; + Pursue 'em still, they are base malicious people. + + _King._ Friend, be not desperate. + + _Ar._ I scorn your courtesies; + Strike when you dare, a fair arm guide the Gunner + And may he let flie still with fortune: friend, + Do me the honor of a Soldiers funerals, + The last fair _Christian_ right, see me i'th' ground, + And let the Palace burn first, then the Temples, + And on their scorn'd gods, erect my monument: + Touch not the Princess, as you are a Soldier. + + _Quisar._ Which way you goe, Sir, + I must follow necessary. + One life, and one death. + + _King._ Will you take a truce yet? + + _Enter_ Pyniero, Soza, _and Soldiers_, _with the Governor_. + + _Py._ No, no, go on: + Look here, your god, your prophet. + + _King._ How came he taken? + + _Py._ I conjur'd for him, King. + I am a sure Curr at an old blind Prophet. + I'll haunt ye such a false knave admirably, + A terrier I; I eartht him, and then snapt him. + + _Soz._ Saving the reverence of your grace, we stole him, + E'en out of the next chamber to ye. + + _Py._ Come, come, begin King, + Begin this bloudy matter when you dare; + And yet I scorn my sword should touch the rascal, + I'll tear him thus before ye. Ha? + What art thou? {_Pulls his Beard and hair off._ + + _King._ How's this! + Art thou a Prophet? + + _Ru._ Come down Princes. + + _King._ We are abus'd-- + Oh my most dear _Armusia_-- + Off with his chains. And now my noble Sister, + Rejoyce with me, I know ye are pleas'd as I am. + + _Py._ This is a precious Prophet. Why Don Governor, + What make you here, how long have you taken Orders? + + _Ruy._ Why what a wretch + Art thou to work this mischief? + To assume this holy shape to ruine honor, + Honor and chastity? + + _Enter King, and all from above._ + + _Gov._ I had paid you all, + But fortune plaid the slut. Come, + Give me my doom. + + _King._ I cannot speak for wonder. + + _Gov._ Nay, 'tis I Sir, + And here I stay your sentence. + + _King._ Take her friend, + You have half perswaded me to be a _Christian_, + And with her all the joyes, and all the blessings. + Why what dream have we dwelt in? + + _Ru._ All peace to ye, + And all the happiness of heart dwell with ye, + Children as sweet and noble as their Parents. + + _Py._ And Kings at least. + + _Ar._ Good Sir, forget my rashness. + And noble Princess[e], for I was once angry, + And out of that, might utter some distemper, + Think not 'tis my nature. + + _Sya._ Your joy is ours, Sir. + And nothing we find in ye, but most noble. + + _King._ To prison with this dog, there let him houl, + And if he can repent, sigh out his villanies: + His Island we shall seize into our hands, + His Father and himself have both usurp'd it, + And kept it by oppression; the Town and Castle, + In which I lay my self most miserable, + Till my most honourable friend redeem'd me, + Signior _Pyniero_, I bestow on you, + The rest of next command upon these Gentlemen, + Upon ye, all my love. + + _Arm._ Oh brave _Ruy Dias_, + You have started now beyond me. I must thank ye, + And thank ye for my life, my wife and honor. + + _Ruy._ I am glad I had her for you, Sir. + + _King._ Come Princes, + Come Friends and Lovers all, come noble Gentlemen, + No more Guns now, nor hates, but joyes and triumphs, + An universal gladness fly about us: + And know however subtle men dare cast, + And promise wrack, the gods give peace at last. [_Exeunt._ + + + + + THE + NOBLE GENTLEMAN. + A Comedy. + + + The Persons represented in the Play. + + Monsieur Marine, _the Noble Gent. but none of the wisest_. + Jaques, _an old servant to_ Marine's _family_. + Clerimont, _a Gull_, _Cosin to Monsieur_ Marine. + A Gentleman, _Servant to_ Marine's _wife_. + Lo[n]gueville, } _two Courtiers that plot + Beaufort, } to abuse_ Marine. + Shattillion, _a Lord_, _mad for Love_. + Doctor. + Page. + Gentlemen. + Servants. + Duke. + + + WOMEN. + + Marine's _Wife_, _a witty wanton_. + Clerimont's _Wife_, _a simple countrey Gentlewoman_. + Shattillion's _Mistriss_, _a virtuous Virgin_. + Maria, _Servant to_ Marine's _wife_. + + + The Scene France. + + + + + PROLOGUE. + + + _Wit is become an Antick, and puts on + As many shapes of variation, + To court the times applause, as the times dare, + Change several fashions, nothing is thought rare + Which is not new, and follow'd, yet we know + That what was worn some twenty years agoe, + Comes into grace again, and we pursue + That custom, by presenting to your view + A Play in fashion then, not doubting now + But 'twill appear the same, if you allow + Worth to their noble memory, whose name, + Beyond all power of death, live in their fame._ + + + + + _Actus Primus. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter Gentleman a[n]d_ Jaques. + + _Gent._ What happiness waits on the life at Court, + What dear content, greatness, delight and ease! + What ever-springing hopes, what tides of honor! + That raise their fortunes to the height of wishes! + What can be more in man, what more in nature, + Than to be great and fear'd? A Courtier, + A noble Courtier, 'Tis a name that draws + Wonder and duty from all eyes and knees. + + _Jaq._ And so your Worships Land within the Walls, + Where you shall have it all inclos'd, and sure. + + _Gent._ Peace knave; dull creature, bred of sweat and smoke, + These mysteries are far above thy faith: + But thou shalt see-- + + _Jaq._ And then I shall believe; + Your fair revenues, turn'd into fair suits; + I shall believe your Tenant's bruis'd and rent + Under the weight of Coaches, all your state + Drawn through the streets in triumph, suits for places + Plied with a Mine of Gold, and being got + Fed with a great stream. I shall believe all this. + + _Gent._ You shall believe, and know me glorious. + Cosin, good day and health. + + _Enter Cosin._ + + _Cosin._ The same to you, Sir, + And more, without my wishes, could you know + What calm content dwels in a private house: + Yet look into your self, retire: this place + Of promises, and protestations, fits + Minds only bent [t]o ruin, you should know this, + You have their language perfect, you have tutors + I do not doubt, sufficient: but beware. + + _Gent._ You are merry Cosin: + + _Cosin._ Yet your patience, + You shall learn that too, but not like it self, + Where it is held a virtue; tell me Sir, + Have you cast up your State, rated your Land, + And find it able to endure the change + Of time and fashion? is it always harvest? + Always vintage? have you Ships at Sea, + To bring you Gold and Stone from rich _Peru_, + Monthly returning Treasure? doth the King + Open his large Exchequer to your hands + And bid ye be a great man? can your wife + Coin off her beauty? or the week allow + Suits to each day? and know no ebb in honor? + If these be possible, and can hold out, + Then be a Courtier still, and still be wasting. + + _Gent._ Cosin, pray give me leave: + + _Cos._ I have done. + + _Gent._ I could requite your gall, and in a strain + As bitter, and as full of Rubarb, preach + Against your Countrey life, but 'tis below me + And only subject to my pitty, know + The eminent Court, to them that can be wise, + And fasten on her blessings, is a Sun + That draws men up from course and earthly Being, + I mean these men of merit that have power + And reason to make good her benefits, + Learns them a manly boldness, gives their tongues + Sweetness of Language, makes them apt to please; + Files of all rudeness, and uncivil haviour, + Shews them as neat in carriage, as in cloaths; + Cosin, have you ever seen the Court? + + _Cos._ No Sir, + Nor am I yet in travel with that longing. + + _Gent._ Oh the state and greatness of that place + Where men are found + Only to give the first creation glory! + Those are the models of the antient world + Left like the _Roman_ Statues to stir up + Our following hopes, the place it self puts on + The brow of Majesty, and flings her lustre + Like the air newly light'ned; Form, and Order, + Are only there themselves, unforc'd, and sound, + As they were first created to this place. + + _Cos._ You nobly came, but will goe from thence base. + + _Gent._ 'Twas very pretty, and a good conceit; + You have a wit good Cosin, I do joy in't, + Keep it for Court: but to my self again, + When I have view'd these pieces, turn'd these eyes, + And with some taste of superstition, + Look'd on the wealth of Nature, the fair dames, + Beauties, that light the Court, and make it shew + Like a fair heaven, in a frosty night: + And 'mongst these mine, not poorest, 'tis for tongues + Of blessed Poets, such as _Orpheus_ was, + To give their worth and praises; Oh dear Cosin: + You have a wife, and fair, bring her hither, + Let her not live to be the Mistriss of a Farmers heir + And be confin'd ever to a searge, + Far courser than my horse-cloth. + Let her have Velvets, Tiffinies, Jewels, Pearls, + A Coach, an Usher, and her two Lacquies, + And I will send my wife to give her rules, + And read the rudiments of Court to her. + + _Cos._ Sir, I had rather send her to _Virginia_ + To help to propagate the _English_ Nation. + + _Enter Servant._ + + _Gent._ Sirrah, how slept your Mistriss, and what visitants + Are to pay service? + + _Serv._ As I came out, + Two Counts were newly ent'red. + + _Gent._ This is greatness, + But few such servants wait a Countrey beauty. + + _Cos._ They are the more to thank their modesty, + God keep my Wife, and all my Issue Female + From such uprisings. + + _Enter a Doctor._ + + _Gent._ What? my learned Doctor? + You will be welcome, give her health and youth + And I will give you gold. [_Exit Doctor._ + Cosin, how savors this? is it not sweet + And very great, tasts it not of Nobleness? + + _Cos._ Faith Sir, my pallat is too dull and lazie + I cannot taste it, 'tis not for my relish, + But be so still. + Since your own misery must first reclaim ye, + To which I leave you, Sir, + If you will, yet be happy, leave the humor + And base subjection to your Wife, be wise, + And let her know with speed, you are her Husband, + I shall be glad to hear it. + My horse is sent for. [_Exit._ + + _Gent._ Even such another countrey thing as this + Was I, such a piece of dirt, so heavy, + So provident to heap up ignorance, + And be an ass: such musty cloaths wore I, + So old and thred-bare, I do yet remember + Divers young Gallants lighting at my Gate, + To see my honoured Wife, have offered pence, + And bid me walk their horses, such a slave + Was I in shew then: but my eyes are open'd. + + _Enter Gent. Wife._ + + Many sweet morrows to my worthy Wife. + + _Wife._ 'Tis well, and aptly given, as much for you, + But to my present business, which is money-- + + _Gent._ Lady, I have none left. + + _Wife._ I hope you dare not say so, nor imagine so base and low, + A thought: I have none left? + Are these words fitting for a man of worth, + And one of your full credit? Do you know + The place you live in? me? and what I labour + For, you? and your advancement? + + _Gent._ Yes my dearest. + + _Wife._ And do you pop me off with this slight answer, + In troth I have none left? in troth you must have; + Nay stare not, 'tis most true, send speedily + To all that love you, let your people flye + Like thunder, through the City, + And not return under five thousand Crowns. + Try all, take all, let not a [wealthy] Merchant be untempted + Or any one that hath the name of Money, + Take up at any Use, give Band, or Land, + Or mighty Statutes, able by their strength, + To tye up _Sampson_, were he now alive, + There must be money gotten; for be perswaded, + If we fall now, or be but seen to shrink, + Under our fair beginnings, 'tis our ruin, + And then good night to all, (but our disgrace) + Farewel the hope of coming happiness, + And all the aims we levied at so long. + Are ye not mov'd at this? no sense of want, + Towards your self yet breeding? be old, + And common; jaded to the eyes + Of Grooms, and Pages, Chamber-maids, and Guarders, + And when you have done, put your poor house in order + And hang your self, for such must be the end + Of him that willingly forsakes his hopes + And hath a joy to tumble to his ruin. + All that I say is certain, if ye fail + Do not [impute] me with it, I am clear. + + _Gent._ Now heaven forbid I should do wrong to you + My dearest Wife, and Madam; yet give leave + To your poor creature to unfold himself. + You know my debts are many more than means, + My bands not taken in, my friends at home + Drawn dry with these expences, my poor Tenants + More full of want than we, then what new course + Can I beget, to raise those crowns by? speak, + And I shall execute. + + _Wife._ Pray tell me true, + Have you not Land in the Countrey? + + _Gent._ Pardon me, I had forgot it. + + _Wife._ Sir, you must remember it, + There is no remedy, this Land must be, + In _Paris_ e'r to morrow night. + + _Gent._ It shall, let me consider, some 300 acres + Will serve the turn. + + _Wife._ 'Twill furnish at all points, + Now you speak like your self, and know like him, + That means to be a man, suspect no less + For the return will give ye five for one, + You shall be great to morrow, I have said it. + Farewel, and see this business be a-foot, + With expedition. [_Exit Wife._ + + _Gent._ Health, all joy, and honor + Wait on my lovely Wife. What? _Jaques_, _Jaques_. + + _Enter_ Jaques. + + _Jaq._ Sir, did you call? + + _Gent._ I did so, hie thee _Jaques_. + Down to the Bank, and there to some good Merchant + (Conceive me well, good _Jaques_, and be private) + Offer 300 acres of my Land: + Say it is choice and fertile, ask upon it + Five thousand Crowns, this is the business + I must employ thee in, be wise and speedy. + + _Jaq._ Sir, do not do this. + + _Gent._ Knave, I must have money. + + _Jaq._ If you have money thus, your knave must tell ye + You will not have a foot of Land left, be more wary, + And more friend to your self, this honest Land + Your Worship has discarded, has been true, + And done you loyal service. + + _Gent._ Gentle _Jaques_, + You have a merry wit, employ it well + About the business you have now in hand. + When ye come back, enquire me in the Presence, + If not in the Tennis-Court, or at my house. [_Exit._ + + _Jaq._ If this vain hold, I know where to enquire ye. + Five thousand Crowns! this, with good husbandry, + May hold a month out, then 5000 more, + And more Land a bleeding for't, as many more, + And more Land laid aside. God and _St. Dennis_ + Keep honest minded young men batchelors. + 'Tis strange, my Master should be yet so young + A puppy, that he cannot see his fall + And got so near the Sun. I'll to his Cosin. + And once more tell him on't, if he fail, + Then to my Mortgage, next unto my sale. [_Exit._ + + _Enter_ Longovile, Bewford, _and the Servant_. + + _Serv._ Gentlemen, hold on discourse a while, + I shall return with knowledge how and where + We shall have best access unto my Mistriss + To tender your devotions. [_Exit._ + + _Long._ Be it so: + Now to our first discourse. + + _Bew._ I prethee peace; + Thou canst not be so bad, or make me know + Such things are living, do not give thy self + So common and so idle, so open vile, + So great a wronger of thy worth, so low, + I cannot, nor I must not credit thee. + + _Lon._ Now by this light I am a whoremaster, + An open, and an excellent whormaster, + And take a special glory that I am so: + I thank my Stars I am a whoremaster, + And such a one as dare be known and seen, + And pointed at to be a noble wencher. + + _Bew._ Do not let all ears hear this, hark [y]e Sir, + I am my self a whoremaster, I am + Believe it Sir (in private be it spoken) + I love a whore directly, most men are wenchers, + And have profest the Science, few men + That look upon ye now, but whoremasters, + Or have a full desire to be so. + + _Lon._ This is noble. + + _Bew._ It is without all question, being private, + And held as needful as intelligence, + But being once discover'd, blown abroad, + And known to common senses, 'tis no more + Than geometrical rules in Carpenters, + That only know some measure of an Art, + But are not grounded: be no more deceived, + I have a conscience to reclaim you, Sir. + Mistake me not: I do not bid you leave your whore + Or less to love her; forbid it, + I should be such a villain to my friend, + Or so unnatural: 'twas never harbor'd here, + Learn to be secret first, then strike your Deer. + + _Lon._ Your fair instructions, _Mo[n]sieur_, I shall learn. + + _Bew._ And you shall have them; I desire your care. + + _Lon._ They are your servants. + + _Bew._ You must not love. + + _Lon._ How Sir? + + _Bew._ I mean a Lady, there's danger. + She hath an Usher and a Waiting Gentlewoman, + A Page, a Coach-man, these are fee'd and fee'd + And yet for all that will be prating. + + _Lon._ So. + + _Bew._ You understand me Sir, they will discover't, + And there is a loss of credit, Table-talk + Will be the end of this, or worse, than that; + Will this be worthy of a Gentleman? + + _Long._ Proceed good Sir. + + _Bew._ Next leave your City Dame; + The best of that Tribe, are most meerly coy, + Or most extreamly foolish, both which vices + Are no great stirrers up, unless in Husbands + That owe this Cattle, fearing her that's coy + To be but seeming, her that's fool too forward. + + _Lon._ This is the rarest fellow, and the soundest, + I mean in knowledge, that e'r wore a Codpiece, + H'as found out that will pass all _Italy_, + All _France_ and _England_; to their shames I speak, + And to the griefs of all their Gentlemen, + The noble Theory of Luxury. + + _Bew._ Your patience, + And I will lay before your eyes a course + That I my self found out, 'tis excellent, + Easie, and full of freedome. + + _Long._ O good Sir, + You rack me till I know it. + + _Bew._ This it is, + When your desire is up, your blood well heated + And apt for sweet encounter, chuse the night, + And with the night your Wench, the streets have store, + There seize upon her, get her to your chamber, + Give her a cardecew, 'tis royal payment; + When ye are dull, dismiss her, no man knows, + Nor she her self, who hath encountred her. + + _Lon._ O but their faces. + + _Bew._ Nere talke of faces: + The night allows her equal with a Dutchess, + Imagination doth all think her fair, + And great, clapt in Velvet, she is so, + Sir, I have tryed those, and do find it certain + It never failes me, 'tis but twelve nights since + My last experience. + + _Lon._ O my meiching Varlet, I'll fit ye as I live. + 'Tis excellent, I'll be your Scholar Sir. + + _Enter_ Lady _and_ Servant. + + _Wife._ You are fairly welcome both: troth Gentlemen + You have been strangers, I could chide you for't, + And taxe ye with unkindness, What's the news? + The Town was never empty of some novelty; + Servant, What's your intelligence? + + _Ser._ Faith nothing. + I have not heard of any worth relating. + + _Bew._ Nor I sweet Lady. + + _Lon._ Then give me attention, + _Monsieur Shattillion's_ mad. + + _Wife._ Mad? + + _Lon._ Mad as May-butter, + And which is more, mad for a Wench. + + _Lady._ 'Tis strange, and full of pity. + + _Lon._ All that comes near him + He thinks are come of purpose to betray him, + Being full of strange conceit: the wench he loved + Stood very near the Crown. + + _Lady._ Alass good _Monsieur_; + A' was a proper man, and fair demean'd, + A Person worthy of a better temper. + + _Lon._ He is strong opinion'd that the Wench he lov'd + Remains close prisoner by the Kings command: + Fearing her title, when the poor grieved Gentlewoman + Follows him much lamenting, and much loving + In hope to make him well, he knows her not, + Nor any else that comes to visit him. + + _Lady._ Let's walk in Gentlemen, and there discourse + His further miseries, you shall stay dinner, + In truth you must obey. + + _Om._ We are your servants. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter Couzen._ + + _Cous._ There's no good to be done, no cure to be wrought + Upon my desperate Kinsman: I'll to horse + And leave him to the fools whip, misery. + I shall recover twenty miles this night, + My horse stands ready, I'll away with speed. + + _Enter_ Shattillion. + + _Shat._ Sir, may I crave your name? + + _Cous._ Yes Sir you may: + My name is _Cleremont_. + + _Shat._ 'Tis well, your faction? + What party knit you with? + + _Cous._ I know no parties, + Nor no Factions, Sir. + + _Shat._ Then weare this Cross of white: + And where you see the like they are my friends, + Observe them well, the time is dangerous. + + _Cous._ Sir keep your cross, I'll weare none, sure this fellow + Is much beside himself, grown mad. + + _Shat._ A word Sir; + You can pick nothing out of this, this cross + Is nothing but a cross, a very cross, + Plain, without spell, or witchcraft, search it, + You may suspect, and well, there's poyson in't, + Powder, or wild-fire, but 'tis nothing so. + + _Cous._ I do believe you, Sir, 'tis a plain cross. + + _Shat._ Then do your worst, I care not, tell the King, + Let him know all this, as I am sure he shall; + When you have spit your venome, then will I + Stand up a faithful, and a loyal Subject, + And so God save His Grace, this is no Treason. + + _Cous._ He is March mad, farewell _Monsieur_. [_Exit Couzen._ + + _Shat._ Farewel; + I shall be here attending, 'tis my life + They aime at, there's no way to save it, well + Let 'em spread all their nets: they shall not draw me + Into any open Treason, I can see, + And can beware, I have my wits about me, + I thank heaven for't. + + _Enter_ Love. + + _Love._ There he goes, + That was the fairest hope the _French_ Court bred, + The worthiest and the sweetest temper'd spirit, + The truest, and the valiantest, the best of judgment, + Till most unhappy I: sever'd those virtues, + And turn'd his wit wild with a coy denial, + Which heaven forgive me, and be pleas'd, O heaven + To give again his senses: that my love + May strike off all my follies. + + _Shat._ Lady. + + _Love._ I Sir. + + _Shat._ Your will with me sweet Lady. + + _Love._ Sir, I come. + + _Shat._ From the dread sovereign King, I know it Lady, + He is a gracious Prince, long may he live, + Pertain you to his chamber? + + _Lov._ No indeed Sir, + That place is not for women, Do you know me? + + _Shat._ Yes, I do know you. + + _Lov._ What's my name? pray you speak. + + _Shat._ That's all one, I do know you and your business, + You are discover'd Lady, I am wary, + It stands upon my life; pray excuse me, + The best man of this Kingdom sent you hither, + To dive into me, have I toucht you? ha? + + _Lov._ You are deceiv'd Sir, I come from your love, + That sends you fair commends, and many kisses. + + _Shat._ Alass, poor soul, How does she? Is she living? + Keeps she her bed still? + + _Lov._ Still Sir, She is living, + And well, and shall do so. + + _Shat._ Are ye in counsel? + + _Lov._ No Sir, nor any of my sex. + + _Shat._ Why so, + If you had been in counsel, you would know, + Her time to be but slender; she must die. + + _Lov._ I do believe it, Sir. + + _Shat._ And suddenly, + She stands too near a fortune. + + _Lov._ Sir? + + _Shat._ 'Tis so, + There is no jesting with a Princes Title, + Would we had both been born of common parents, + And liv'd a private and retir'd life, + In homely cottage, we had then enjoyed, + Our loves, and our embraces, these are things, + That cannot tend to Treason-- + + _Lov._ I am wretched. + + _Shat._ O I pray as often for the King as any, + And with as true a heart, for's continuance, + And do moreover pray his heirs may live; + And their fair issues, then as I am bound + For all the states and commons: if these prayers + Be any wayes ambitious, I submit, + And lay my head down, let 'em take it off; + You may informe against me, but withall + Remember my obedience to the Crown, + And service to the State. + + _Lov._ Good Sir, I love ye. + + _Shat._ Then love the gracious King, and say with me. + + _Lov._ Heaven save his Grace. + + _Shat._ This is strange-- + A woman should be sent to undermine me, + And buz love into me to try my spirit; + Offer me kisses, and enticing follies, + To make me open, and betray my self; + It was a subtile and a dangerous plot, + And very soundly followed, farewel Lady, + Let me have equal hearing, and relate + I am an honest Man. Heaven save the King. [_Exit._ + + _Love._ I'll never leave him, till, by art or prayer, + I have restor'd his senses, If I make + Him perfect Man again, he's mine, till when, + I here abjure all loves of other men. [_Exit._ + + _Enter_ Cozen, _and_ Jaques. + + _Jaques._ Nay, good Sir be perswaded, go but back, + And tell him hee's undone, say nothing else; + And you shall see how things will work upon't. + + _Cozen._ Not so good _Jaques_, I am held an asse, + A Countrey Fool, good to converse with dirt, + And eate course bread, weare the worst Wooll, + Know nothing but the high-way to _Paris_, + And wouldst thou have me bring these stains, + And imperfections to the rising view + Of the right worshipful thy worthy Master? + They must be bright, and shine, their cloaths + Soft Velvet, and the _Tyrian_ Purple + Like the _Arabian_ gums, hung like the Sun, + Their golden beames on all sides; + Such as these may come and know + Thy Master, I am base, and dare not speak unto him, + Hee's above me. + + _Ja._ If ever you did love him, or his state, + His name, his issue, or your self, go back: + 'Twill be an honest and a noble part + Worthy a Kinsman; save 300 Acres + From present execution; they have had sentence, + And cannot be repriev'd, be merciful. + + _Co._ Have I not urg'd already all the reasons, + I had to draw him from his will? his ruin? + But all in vain, no counsel will prevail; + H'as fixt himself, there's no removing, _Jaques_, + 'Twill prove but breath and labor spent in vain, + I'll to my horse, farewell. + + _Ja._ For Gods sake, Sir, + As ever you have hope of joy, turn back; + I'll be your slave for ever, do but go, + And I will lay such fair directions to you + That if he be not doting on his fall, + He shall recover sight, and see his danger, + And ye shall tell him of his Wives abuses, + I fear, too foul against him; how she plots, + With our young Mounsiers, to milk-dry her husband, + And lay it on their backs; the next her pride; + Then what his debts are, and how infinite + The curses of his Tenants, this will work + I'll pawn my life and head, he cries away, + I'll to my house in the Countrey. + + _Co._ Come, I'll go, and once more try him, + If he yield not, so, + The next that tryes him shall be want and woe. [_Exeunt._ + + + + + _Actus Secundus. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter Gentleman, Solus._ + + _Gent._ _Jaques._ + + _Jaq._ Sir. [_Within._ + + _Gent._ Rise _Jaques_ 'tis grown day, + The Country life is best, where quietly, + Free from the clamor of the troubled Court, + We may enjoy our own green shadowed walks, + And keep a moderate diet without art. + Why did I leave my house, and bring my Wife, + To know the manner of this subtile place? + I would, when first the lust to fame and honor, + Possest me, I had met with any evil, + But that; had I been tied to stay at home, + And earn the bread for the whole family, + With my own hand, happy had I been. + + _Enter_ Jaques. + + _Jaq._ Sir, this is from your wonted course at home, + When did ye there keep such inordinate hours? + Goe to bed late? start thrice? and call on me? + Would you were from this place; our Countrey sleeps, + Although they were but of that moderate length + That might maintain us in our daily work, + Yet were they sound and sweet. + + _Gent._ I _Jaques_, there we dreamt not of our Wives, we lay together; + And needed not; now at length my Cozens words, + So truly meant, mixt with thy timely prayers + So often urged, to keep me at my home, + Condemn me quite. + + _Ja._ 'Twas not your fathers course: + He liv'd and dy'd in _Orleance_, where he had + His Vines as fruitful as experience + (Which is the art of Husbandry) could make; + He had his presses for 'em, and his wines + Were held the best, and out-sold other Mens, + His corn and cattel serv'd the neighbor Towns + With plentiful provision, yet his thrift + Could miss one Beast amongst the heard; + He rul'd more where he liv'd, than ever you will here. + + _Gent._ 'Tis true, why should my Wife then, 'gainst my good, + Perswade me to continue in this course? + + _Ja._ Why did you bring her hither at the first, + Before you warm'd her blood with new delights? + Our Countrey sports could have contented her; + When you first married her a puppet-play + Pleas'd her as well as now the tilting doth. + She thought her self brave in a bugle chain, + Where Orient pearl will scarce content her now. + + _Gent._ Sure _Jaques_, she sees something for my good + More than I do; she oft will talk to me + Of Offices, and that she shortly hopes, + By her acquaintance with the friends she hath, + To get a place shall many times outweigh + Our great expences, and if this be so-- + + _Ja._ Think better of her words, she doth deceive you, + And only for her vain and sensual ends + Perswade ye thus. Let me be set to dwell + For ever naked in the barest soil, + So you will dwell from hence. + + _Gent._ I see my folly, + Pack up my stuffe, I will away this morne. + Haste--haste. + + _Ja._ I, now I see your Father's honors + Trebling upon you, and the many prayers + The Countrey spent for him, which almost now + Begun to turn to curses, turning back, + And falling like a [timely] shower + Upon ye. + + _Gent._ Goe, call [up] my Wife. + + _Ja._ But shall she not prevail, + And sway you, as she oft hath done before? + + _Gent._ I will not hear her, but raile on her, + Till I be ten miles off. + + _Ja._ If you be forty, + 'Twill not be worse Sir: + + _Gent._ Call her up. + + _Ja._ I will Sir. [_Exit._ + + _Gent._ Why what an Ass was I that such a thing + As a Wife is could rule me! + Know not I that woman was created for the man, + That her desires, nay all her thoughts should be + As his are? is my sense restor'd at length? + Now she shall know, that which she should desire, + She hath a husband that can govern her, + + _Enter Wife._ + + If her desires leads me against my will; + Are you come? + + _Wife._ What sad unwonted course + Makes you raise me so soon, that went to bed + So late last-night. + + _Gent._ O you shall goe to bed sooner hereafter, + And be rais'd again at thrifty hours: + In Summer time wee'l walk + An hour after our Supper, and to bed, + In Winter you shall have a set at Cards, + And set your Maids to work. + + _Wife._ What do you mean? + + _Gent._ I will no more of your new tricks, your honors, + Your Offices, and all your large preferments, + Which still you beat into my ears, hang o'er me, + I'll leave behind for others, the great sway + Which I shall bear at Court: my living here + With countenance of your honoured friends, + I'll be content to lose: for you speak this + Only that you may still continue here + In wanton ease: and draw me to consume, + In cloaths and other things idle for shew, + That which my Father got with honest thrift. + + _Wife._ Why, who hath been with you Sir, + That you talk thus out of Frame. + + _Gent._ You make a fool of me: + You provide one to bid me forth to supper, + And make me promise; then must some one or other + Invite you forth, if you have born your self + Loosely to any Gentleman in my sight + At home, you ask me how I like the carriage, + Whether it were not rarely for my good, + And open'd not a way to my preferment? + Come, I perceive all: talk not, we'll away. + + _Wife._ Why Sir, you'll stay till the next triumph + Day be past? + + _Gent._ I, you have kept me here triumphing + This seven years, and I have ridden through the streets, + And bought embroyder'd hose and foot-cloths too, + To shew a subjects zeal, I rode before + In this most gorgeous habit, and saluted + All the acquaintance I could espie + From any window, these are wayes ye told me + To raise me; I see all: make you ready straight, + And in that Gown which you came first to Town in, + Your safe-guard, cloak, and your hood sutable: + Thus on a double gelding shall you amble, + And my man _Jaques_ shall be set before you. + + _Wife._ But will you goe? + + _Gent._ I will. + + _Wife._ And shall I too? + + _Gent._ And you shall too. + + _Wife._ But shall I by this light? + + _Gent._ Why by this light you shall. + + _Wife._ Then by this light + You have no care of your Estate, and mine. + Have we been seven years venturing in a Ship, + And now upon return, with a fair wind, + And a calm Sea, full fraught with our own wishes, + Laden with wealth and honor to the brim, + And shall we flye away and not receive it? + Have we been tilling, sowing, labouring, + With pain and charge a long and tedious winter, + And when we see the corn above the ground, + Youthful as is the Morn and the full eare, + That promises to stuffe our spacious garners, + Shall we then let it rot, and never reap it? + + _Gent._ Wife talke no more, your Rhetorick comes too late, + I am inflixible; and how dare you + Adventure to direct my course of life? + Was not the husband made to rule the Wife? + + _Wife._ 'Tis true: but where the man doth miss his way, + It is the Womans part to set him right; + So Fathers have a power to guide their Sons + In all their courses, yet you oft have seen + Poor little children, that have both their eyes, + Lead their blind Fathers. + + _Gen._ She has a plaguy wit, + I say you'r but a little piece of man. + + _Wife._ But such a piece, as being tane away, + Man cannot last: the fairest and tallest ship, + That ever sail'd, is by a little piece of the same + Wood, steer'd right, and turn'd about. + + _Gen._ 'Tis true she sayes, her answers stand with reason. + + _Wife._ But Sir, your Cozin put this in your head, + Who is an enemy to your preferment, + Because I should not take place of his wife; + Come, by this kiss, thou shalt not go sweet heart. + + _Gen._ Come, by this kiss I will go Sweet-heart, + On with your riding stuffe: I know your tricks, + And if preferment fall ere you be ready, + 'Tis welcome, else adieu the City life. + + _Wife._ Well, Sir, I will obey. + + _Gent._ About it then. + + _Wife._ To please your humor I would dress my self, + In the most loathsome habit you could name, + Or travel any whether o're the World, + If you command me, it shall ne'r be said, + The frailty of a woman, whose weak mind, + Is often set on loose delights, and shews, + Hath drawn her husband to consume his state, + In the vain hope of that which never fell. + + _Gen._ About it then, women are pleasant creatures, + When once a man begins to know himself. + + _Wife._ But hark you Sir, because I will be sure, + You shall have no excuse, no word to say + In your defence hereafter; when you see + What honors were prepar'd for you and me, + Which you thus willingly have thrown away, + I tell you I did look for present honor, + This morning for you, which I know had come: + But if they do not come ere I am ready + (Which I will be the sooner least they should) + When I am once set in a countrey life, + Not all the power of earth shall alter me, + Not all your prayers or threats shall make me speak + The least words to my honorable friends, + To do you any grace. + + _Gent._ I will not wish it. + + _Wife._ And never more hope to be honorable. + + _Gent._ My hopes are lower. + + _Wife._ As I live you shall not, + You shall be so far from the name of noble + That you shall never see a Lord again; + You shall not see a Maske, or Barriers, + Or Tilting, or a solemn Christning, + Or a great Marriage, or new Fire-works, + Or any bravery; but you shall live + At home, bespotted with your own lov'd durt, + In scurvy cloaths, as you were wont to doe, + And to content you, I will live so too. + + _Gen._ Tis all I wish, make haste, the day draws on, + It shall be my care to see your Stuffe packt up. + + _Wife._ It shall be my care to gull you: you shall stay. [_Ex. Gen._ + And more than so, intreat me humbly too, + You shall have honors presently; _Maria_. + + _Enter_ Maria. + + _Mar._ Madam. + + _Wife._ Bring hither, pen, ink, and paper. + + _Ma._ 'Tis here. + + _Wife._ Your Master will not stay, + Unless preferment come within an hour. + + _Mar._ Let him command one of the City gates, + In time of mutiny, or you may provide him, + To be one of the counsel for invading, + Some savage Countrey to plant Christian faith. + + _Wife._ No, no, I have it for him, call my page; + Now, my dear husband, there it is will fit you. [_Ex._ Maria. + And when the world shall see what I have done, + Let it not move the spleen of any Wife, + To make an Ass of her beloved husband, + Without good ground, but if they will be drawn + To any reason by you, do not gull them; + But if they grow conceited of themselves, + And be fine Gentlemen, have no mercy, + Publish them to the World, 'twill do them good + When they shall see their follies understood, + Go bear these Letters to my servant, + And bid him make haste, I will dress my self, + In all the Journey-Cloaths I us'd before, + Not to ride, but to make the Laughter more. [_Exit._ + + _Enter_ Gentleman, _and_ Jaques. + + _Gent._ Is all packt up? + + _Ja._ All, all Sir, there is no tumbler + Runs through his hoop with more dexterity, + Then I about this business: 'Tis a day, + That I have long long'd to see. + + _Gent._ Come, Where's my Spurs? + + _Ja._ Here, Sir, and now 'tis come. + + _Gent._ I, _Jaques_, now, + I thank my fates, I can command my Wife. + + _Ja._ I am glad to see it, Sir. + + _Gent._ I do not love alwayes, + To be made a puppie, _Jaques_. + + _Ja._ But, yet me thinks your Worship does not look, + Right like a Countrey Gentleman. + + _Gent._ I will, give me my t'other hat. + + _Ja._ Here. + + _Gent._ So, my Jerkin. + + _Ja._ Yes, Sir. + + _Gent._ On with it _Jaques_, thou and I + Will live so finely in the Countrey, _Jaques_, + And have such pleasant walks into the Woods + A mornings, and then bring home riding-rods, + And walking staves-- + + _Ja._ And I will bear them, Sir, + And Skurdge-sticks for the children. + + _Gent._ So thou shalt, + And thou shalt do all, over-see my Work-folkes, + And at the weeks end pay them all their wages. + + _Ja._ I will, Sir, so your Worship give me Money. + + _Gent._ Thou shalt receive all too: give me my Drawers. + + _Ja._ They are ready, Sir. + + _Gent._ And I will make thy Mistriss, + My wife, look to her landrie, and her dairy, + That we may have our linnen clean on Sundayes. + + _Ja._ And Holy-dayes. + + _Gent._ I, and ere we walk about the Grounds + Provide our break-fast, + Or she shall smoke, I'll have her a good huswife; + She shall not make a voyage to her Sisters, + But she shall live at home, + And feed her pullen fat, and see her Maides + In bed before her, and lock all the doors. + + _Ja._ Why that will be a life for Kings and Queens. + + _Gen._ Give me my Scarfe with the great Button quickly. + + _Ja._ 'Tis done, Sir. + + _Gen._ Now my Mittens. + + _Ja._ Here they are, Sir. + + _Gen._ 'Tis well: now my great dagger. + + _Ja._ There. + + _Gen._ Why so; thus it should be, now my riding rod. + + _Ja._ There's nothing wanting, Sir. + + _Gen._ Another, man, to stick under my girdle. + + _Ja._ There it is. + + _Gent._ All is well. + + _Ja._ Why now methinks your Worship looks + Like to your self, a Man of means and credit, + So did your grave and famous Ancestors, + Ride up and down to Fairs, and cheapen cattel. + + _Gent._ Goe, hasten your Mistriss, Sirra. + + _Ja._ It shall be done. [_Ex._ Jaques. + + _Enter_ Servant _and_ Page. + + _Ser._ Who's that? who's that Boy? + + _Page._ I think it be my Master. + + _Ser._ Who, he that walkes in gray, whisking his riding rod? + + _Pag._ Yes, Sir, 'tis he. + + _Ser._ 'Tis he indeed; he is prepar'd + For his new journey; when I wink upon you, + Run out and tell the Gentleman 'tis time-- + _Monsieur_ good day. + + _Gen._ _Monsieur_, your Mistriss is within, but yet not ready. + + _Ser._ My business is with you, Sir; 'tis reported, + I know not whether by some enemy + Maliciously, that envies your great hopes, + And would be ready to sow discontents + Betwixt his Majesty, and you, or truely, + Which on my faith I would be sorry for, + That you intend to leave the Court in haste. + + _Gen._ Faith, Sir, within this half hour. _Jaques_? + + _Jaques within:_ Sir? + + _Gent._ Is my Wife ready? + + _Ja._ Presently. + + _Ser._ But Sir, + I needs must tell you, as I am your friend, + You should have ta'en your journey privater, + For 'tis already blaz'd about the Court. + + _Gen._ Why Sir, I hope it is no Treason, is it? + + _Ser._ 'Tis true, Sir, but 'tis grown the common talk, + There's no discovery else held, and in the presence + All the Nobility and Gentry, + Have nothing in their mouths but only this, + _Monsieur Marine_, that noble Gentleman, + Is now departing hence: every Mans face + Looks ghastly on his fellows; such a sadness + (Before this day) I ne'er beheld in Court, + Mens hearts begin to fail them when they hear it, + In expectation of the great event + That needs must follow it, pray Heaven it be good! + + _Gen._ Why, I had rather all their hearts should fail, + Than I stay here until my purse fail me. + + _Ser._ But yet you are a Subject, and beware, + I charge you by the love I bear to you, + How you do venture rashly on a course, + To make your Sovereign jealous of your deeds, + For Princes jealousies, where they love most, + Are easily found, but they be hardly lost. + + _Gen._ Come, these are tricks, I smell 'em, I will goe. + + _Ser._ Have I not still profest my self your friend? + + _Gen._ Yes, but you never shewd it to me yet. + + _Ser._ But now I will, because I see you wise, + And give ye thus much light into a business, + That came to me but now, be resolute, + Stand stifly to it that you will depart, + And presently. + + _Gen._ Why so I mean to doe. + + _Ser._ And by this light you may be what you will; + Will you be secret, Sir? + + _Gen._ Why? What's the matter? + + _Ser._ The King does fear you. + + _Gent._ How? + + _Ser._ And is now in Counsel; + + _Gent._ About me? + + _Ser._ About you, and you be wise, + You'll find he's in Counsel about you: + His Counsellors have told him all the truth. + + _Gent._ What truth? + + _Ser._ Why, that which now he knows too well. + + _Gent._ What is't? + + _Ser._ That you have followed him seven years, + With a great train: and though he have not grac't you, + Yet you have div'd into the hearts of thousands, + With liberality and noble carriage; + And if you should depart home unprefer'd, + All discontented, and seditious spirits + Would flock to you, and thrust you into action: + With whose help, and your Tenants, who doth not know + (If you were so dispos'd:) + How great a part of this yet fertile peaceful Realm of _France_ + You might make desolate? but when the King + Heard this-- + + _Gent._ What said he? + + _Ser._ Nothing, but shook, + As never Christian Prince did shake before. + And to be short, you may be what you will + But be not ambitious Sir, sit down + With moderate honors, least you make your self + More fear'd. + + _Gent._ I know, Sir, what I have to doe + In mine own business. + + _Enter_ Longavile. + + _Long._ Where's _Monsieur Mount Marine_? + + _Ser._ Why there he stands, will you ought with him? + + _Long._ Yes: Good day _Monsieur Marine_. + + _Gent._ Good day to you. + + _Long._ His Majesty doth commend himself, + Most kindly to you Sir, and hath, by me, + Sent you this favor: kneel down, rise a Knight. + + _Gent._ I thank his Majesty. + + _Long._ And he doth further request you, + Not to leave the Court so soon, + For though your former merits have been slighted, + After this time there shall no Office fall; + Worthy your spirit, as he doth confess + There's none so great, but you shall surely have it. + + _Ser._ Do you hear? if you yield yet you are an ass. + + _Gent._ I'll shew my service to his Majesty + In greater things than these, but for this small one + I must intreat his Highness to excuse me. + + _Long._ I'll bear your Knightly words unto the King, + And bring his Princely answer back again. [_Exit_ Long. + + _Ser._ Well said, be resolute a while, I know + There is a tide of honors coming on. + I warrant you. + + _Enter_ Bewford. + + _Bew._ Where is this new made Knight? + + _Gent._ Here, Sir. + + _Bew._ Let me enfold you in my arms, + Then call you Lord, the King will have it so, + Who doth entreat your Lordship to remember + His Message sent to you by _Longavile_. + + _Ser._ If ye be durty, and dare not mount aloft; + You may yield now, I know what I would do. + + _Gent._ Peace, I will fit him; tell his Majesty + I am a Subject, and I do confess + I serve a gracious Prince, that thus hath heapt + Honors on me without desert, but yet + As for the Message, business urgeth me, + I must be gone, and he must pardon me, + Were he ten thousand Kings and Emperors. + + _Bew._ I'll tell him so. + + _Ser._ Why, this was like your self. + + _Bew._ As he hath wrought him, 'tis the finest fellow + That e're was Christmas Lord, he carries it + So truely to the life, as though he were + One of the plot to gull himself. [_Exit_ Bewf. + + _Ser._ Why so, you sent the wisest and the shrewdest answer + Unto the King, I swear, my honored friend, + That ever any Subject sent his Liege. + + _Gent._ Nay now I know I have him on the hip, + I'll follow it. + + _Enter_ Longavile. + + _Long._ My honorable Lord, + Give me your noble hand right courteous Peer, + And from henceforth be a courtly Earl; + The King so wills, and Subjects must obey: + Only he doth desire you to consider + Of his request. + + _Ser._ Why faith you'r well my Lord, yield to him. + + _Gent._ Yield? why 'twas my plot. + + _Ser._ Nay, 'twas your Wives plot. + + _Gent._ To get preferment by it, + And thinks he now to pop me i'th' mouth + But with an Earldome? I'll be one step higher. + + _Ser._ 'Tis the finest Lord, I am afraid anon + He will stand upon't to share the Kingdom with him. + + _Enter_ Bewford. + + _Bew._ Where's this Courtly Earl? + His Majesty commends his love unto you; + And will you but now grant to his request, + He bids you be a Duke, and chuse of whence. + + _Ser._ Why if you yield not now, you are undone, + What can you wish to have more, but the Kingdom? + + _Gent._ So please his Majesty, I would be D. of _Burgundy_, + Because I like the place. + + _Bew._ I know the King is pleas'd. + + _Gent._ Then will I stay and kiss his Highness hand. + + _Bew._ His Majesty will be a glad man when he hears it. + + _Lon._ But how shall we keep this from the world's ear, + That some one tell him not, he is no Duke? + + _Ser._ Wee'l think of that anon. + Why Gentlemen, Is this a gracious habit for a Duke? + Each gentle body set a finger to + To pluck the clouds of this his riding weeds + From off the orient Sun of his best cloaths; + I'll pluck one Boot and spur off. + + _Long._ I another. + + _Bew._ I'll pluck his Jerkin off. + + _Ser._ Sit down my Lord; + Both his spurs off at once good _Longavile_, + And _Bewford_, take that Scarfe off, and that Hat, + Doth not become his largely sprouting fore-head. + Now set your gracious foot to this of mine, + One pluck will do it, so, off with the other. + + _Lon._ Loe, thus your servant _Longavile_ doth pluck + The trophy of your former gentry off. + Off with his Jerkin _Bewford._ + + _Ser._ Didst thou never see + A nimble footed Taylor stand so in his stockings, + Whilst some friend help'd to pluck his Jerkin off, + To dance a Jigg? + + _Enter_ Jaques. + + _Lon._ Here's his man _Jaques_ come, + Booted and ready still. + + _Jaq._ My Mistriss stayes; + Why how now Sir? What do's your Worship mean, + To pluck your grave and thrifty habit off. + + _Gent._ My slippers, _Jaques_. + + _Lon._ O thou mighty Duke, + Pardon this Man, + That thus hath trespassed in ignorance. + + _Gent._ I pardon him. + + _Lon._ His Graces slippers, _Jaques_. + + _Ja._ Why what's the matter? + + _Lon._ Foot-man, he's a Duke: + The King hath rais'd him above all his Land. + + _Ja._ I'll to his Cozen presently, and tell him so; + O what a dung-hill Countrey rogue was I. [_Exit_ Jaques. + + _Enter_ Wife. + + _Ser._ See, see, my Mistriss. + + _Lon._ Let's observe their greeting. + + _Wife._ Unto your will, as every good Wife ought, + I have turn'd all my thoughts, and now am ready. + + _Gent._ O Wife, I am not worthy to kiss the least + Of all thy toes, much less thy Thumb, + Which yet I would be bold with; all thy counsel + Hath been to me Angelical, but mine to thee + Hath been most dirty, like my mind: + Dear Duchess I must stay. + + _Wife._ What are you mad, to make me + Dress, and undress, turn and wind me, + Because you find me plyant? said I not + The whole world should not alter me, if once + I were resolv'd? and now you call me Duchess: + Why what's the matter? + + _Gent._ Loe a Knight doth kneel. + + _Wife._ A Knight? + + _Gent._ A Lord. + + _Wife._ A Fool. + + _Gent._ I say doth kneel an Earl, a Duke. + + _Long._ In Drawers. + + _Bew._ Without shoes. + + _Wife._ Sure you [are] lunatick. + + _Ser._ No, honoured Duchess, + If you dare but believe your servants truth, + I know he is a Duke. + + _Long._ God save his Grace. + + _Wife._ I ask your Graces pardon. + + _Gent._ Then I rise, + And here, in token that all strife shall end, + 'Twixt thee and me, I let my drawers fall, + And to thy hands I do deliver them: + Which signifies, that in all acts and speeches, + From this time forth, my Wife shall wear the breeches. + + _Ser._ An honorable composition. [_Exeunt omnes._ + + + + + _Actus Tertius. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter_ Cozen, _and_ Jaques. + + _Coz._ Shall I believe thee, _Jaques_? + + _Ja._ Sir you may. + + _Coz._ Didst thou not dreame? + + _Ja._ I did not. + + _Coz._ Nor imagine? + + _Ja._ Neither of both: I saw him great and mighty, + I saw the _Monsieurs_ bow, and heard them cry, + Good health and fortune to my Lord the Duke. + + _Coz._ A Duke art sure? a Duke? + + _Ja._ I am sure a Duke, + And so sure, as I know my self for _Jaques_. + + _Coz._ Yet the Sun may dazel; _Jaques_, Was it not + Some leane Commander of an angry Block-house + To keep the Fleemish Eele-boats from invasion, + Or some bold Baron able to dispend + His fifty pounds a year, and meet the foe + Upon the Kings command, in gilded canvas, + And do his deeds of worth? or was it not + Some place of gain, as Clerk to the great Band + Of maribones, that people call the _Switzers_? + Men made of Beufe, and Sarcenet? + + _Ja._ Is a Duke his chamber hung with Nobles like a presence? + + _Coz._ I am something wavering in my faith; + Would you would settle me, and swear 'tis so, + Is he a Duke indeed? + + _Ja._ I swear he is. + + _Coz._ I am satisfied, he is my Kinsman. _Jaques_, + And I his poor unworthy Cozen. + + _Ja._ True, Sir. + + _Coz._ I might have been a Duke too, I had means, + A wife as fair as his, and as wise as his; + And could have brookt the Court as well as his, + And laid about her for her husbands honor: + O _Jaques_, had I ever dreamt of this, + I had prevented him. + + _Ja._ Faith Sir it came + Above our expectation, we were wise + Only in seeking to undoe this honor, + Which shewed our dung-hill breeding and our durt. + + _Coz._ But tell me _Jaques_, + Why could we not perceive? what dull Divel + Wrought us to cross this noble course, perswading + 'Twould be his overthrow? 'fore me a Courtier + Is he that knows all, _Jaques_, and does all, + 'Tis as his noble Grace hath often said, + And very wisely, _Jaques_, we are fools, + And understand just nothing. + + _Ja._ I, as we were, I confess it. + But rising with our great Master, + We shall be call'd to knowledge with our places, + 'Tis nothing to be wise, not thus much there, + There's not the least of the billet dealers, + Nor any of the Pastry, or the Kitchin, + But have it in measure delicate. + + _Coz._ Methinks this greatness of the Dukes my Cozens, + (I ask you mercy, _Jaques_, that near name + Is too familiar for me) should give promise + Of some great benefits to his attendants. + + _Ja._ I have a suit my self, and it is sure, + Or I mistake my ends much. + + _Coz._ What is't _Jaques_, + May I not crave the place? + + _Ja._ Yes, Sir, you shall, + 'Tis to be but his Graces Secretary, + Which is my little all, and my ambition, + Till my known worth shall take me by the hand, + And set me higher; how the fates may do + In this poor thread of life, is yet uncertain; + I was not born I take it for a Trencher, + Nor to espouse my Mistriss Dairy-maid. + + _Couz._ I am resolv'd my Wife shall up to Court; + I'll furnish her, that is a speeding course, + And cannot chuse but breed a mighty fortune; + What a fine youth was I, to let him start, + And get the rise before me! I'll dispatch, + And put my self in Moneys. + + _Ja._ Mass 'tis true, + And now you talke of Money; Sir, my business + For taking those Crowns must be dispatcht: + This little plot in the Countrey lies most fit + To do his Grace such serviceable uses, + I must about it. + + _Couz._ Yet, before you goe, + Give me your hand, and bear my humble service + To the great Duke your Master, and his Duchess, + And live your self in favor: say my Wife + Shall there attend them shortly, so farewell. + + _Ja._ I'll see you mounted, Sir. + + _Couz._ It may not be, + Your place is far above it, spare your self, + And know I am your servant, fare ye well. [_Exit Couzen._ + + _Ja._ Sir I shall rest to be commanded by you, + This place of Secretary will not content me, + I must be more and greater: let me see; + To be a Baron is no such great matter + As people take it: for say I were a Count, + I am still an under-person to this Duke, + Which methinks sounds but harshly: but a Duke? + O I am strangely taken, 'tis a Duke + Or nothing, I'll advise upon't, and see + What may be done by wit and industry. [_Exit._ + + _Enter_ Wife, Longoveil, Bewford, Servants. + + _Wife._ It must be carried closely with a care + That no man speak unto him, or come near him, + Without our private knowledge, or be made + Afore-hand to our practice: + My good husband, + I shall entreat you now to stay a while, + And prove a noble coxcomb. + Gentlemen, + Your counsel and advice about this carriage. + + _Ser._ Alas good man, I do begin to mourn + His dire Massacre: what a persecution + Is pouring down upon him! sure he is sinful. + + _Long._ Let him be kept in's chamber under shew + Of state and dignity, and no man suffer'd + To see his noble face, or have access, + But we that are Conspirators. + + _Bew._ Or else down with him into the Countrey amongst his Tenants, + There he may live far longer in his greatness, + And play the fool in pomp amongst his fellows. + + _Wife._ No, he shall play the fool in the City, and stay, + I will not lose the greatness of this jest, + That shall be given to my wit, for the whole Revenues. + + _Ser._ Then thus wee'll have a guard about his person, + That no man come too near him, and our selves + Alwayes in company; have him into the City + To see his face swell; whilst, in divers corners, + Some of our own appointing shall be ready + To cry heaven bless your Grace, long live your Grace. + + _Wife._ Servant, your counsel's excellent good, + And shall be follow'd, 'twill be rarely strange + To see him stated thus, as though he went + A shroving through the City, or intended + To set up some new [stake]: + I shall not hold + From open laughter, when I hear him cry, + Come hither my sweet Duchess: let me kiss + Thy gracious lips: for this will be his phrases? + I fear me nothing but his legs will break + Under his mighty weight of such a greatness. + + _Bew._ Now me thinks dearest Lady you are too cruel; + His very heart will freeze in knowing this. + + _Wife._ No, no, the man was never of such deepness, + To make conceit his Master: Sir, I'll assure ye + He will out-live twenty such pageants. + Were he but my Cozen, or my Brother, + And such a desperate killer of his fortune, + In this belief he should dye, though it cost me + A thousand Crowns a day to hold it up; + Or were I not known his wife, and so to have + An equal feeling of this ill he suffers, + He should be thus till all the Boyes i'th' Town + Made sute to weare his badges in their hats, + And walk before his Grace with sticks and nose-gayes, + We Married Women hold-- + + _Ser._ 'Tis well, no more. + The Duke is entring, set you[r] faces right, + And bow like Countrey Prologues: here he comes. + Make room afore, the Duke is entring. + + _Enter Duke._ + + _Long._ The choisest fortunes wait upon our Duke. + + _Ser._ And give him all content and happiness. + + _Bew._ Let his great name live to the end of time. + + _Duke._ We thank you, and are pleas'd to give you notice + We shall at fitter times wait on your Loves, + Till when, be near Us. + + _Longv._ 'Tis a valiant purge, and works extreamly; + 'Thas delivered him + Of all Right worshipful and gentle humors, + And left his belly full of nobleness. + + _Du._ It pleased the King my Master, + For sundry vertues not unknown to him, + And the all-seeing state, to lend his hand, + And raise me to this Eminence, how this + May seem to other Men, or stir the minds + Of such as are my fellow Peers, I know not, + I would desire their loves in just designs. + + _Wife._ Now by my faith he does well, very well: + Beshrew my heart I have not seen a better, + Of a raw fellow, that before this day + Never rehearst his state: 'tis marvellous well. + + _Ser._ Is he not Duke indeed, see how he looks + As if his spirit were a last, or two + Above his veins, and stretcht his noble hide. + + _Long._ Hee's high-brac't like a Drum, pray God he break not. + + _Bew._ Why let him break, there's but a Calves-skin lost. + + _Long._ May it please your Grace to see the City, + 'Twill be to the minds and much contentment + Of the doubtful people. + + _Du._ I am determin'd so, till my return + I leave my honour'd Dutchess to her chamber. + Be careful of your health, I pray you be so. + + _Ser._ Your Grace shall suffer us your humble servants + To give attendance, fit so great a person + Upon your body. + + _Du._ I am pleased so. + + _Long._ Away good _Bewford_, raise a guard sufficient + To keep him from the reach of Tongues, be quick; + And do you hear, remember how the streets + Must be dispos'd with, for cries, and salutations. + Your Grace determines not to see the King-- + + _Du._ Not yet, I shall be ready ten dayes hence + To kiss his Highness hand, and give him thanks, + As it is fit I should for his great bounty. + Set forward Gentlemen. + + _Groom._ Room for the Duke there. [_Exeunt Duke and Train._ + + _Wife._ 'Tis fit he should have room to shew his mightiness, + He swells so with his poyson, + 'Tis better to reclaim ye thus, than make + A sheeps-head of you, It had been but your due; + But I have mercy Sir, and mean to reclaim you + By a directer course. + That Woman is not worthy of a Soul + That has the sovereign power to rule her husband, + And gives her title up, so long provided + As there be fair play, and his state not wrong'd. + + _Enter_ Shattillion. + + _Shat._ I would be glad to know whence this new Duke springs, + The people buz abroad; or by what title + He receiv'd his dignity, 'tis very strange + There should be such close jugling in the State, + But I am ty'd to silence, yet a day + May come, and soon to perfect all these doubts. + + _Wife._ It is the mad _Shattillion_ by my Soul, + I suffer much for this poor Gentleman; + I'll speak to him, may be he yet knows me. + _Monsieur Shattilion._ + + _Shat._ Can you give me reason from whence + This great Duke sprang that walks abroad? + + _Wife._ Even from the King himself. + + _Shot._ As you are a Woman, I think you may be cover'd? + Yet your prayer would do no harm good Woman. + + _Wife._ God preserve him. + + _Enter_ Shattillions _Love_. + + _Shat._ I say Amen, and so say all good Subjects. + + _Love._ Lady, as ever you have lov'd, or shall, + As you have hope of heaven lend your hand, + And wit, to draw this poor distracted man + Under your roofe, from the broad eyes of people, + And wonder of the streets. + + _Wife._ With all my heart; + My feeling of his grief and loss is much. + + _Love._ Sir, now you are come so near the prison, will ye + Goe in, and visit your fair Love: poor soul + She would be glad to see you. + + _Shat._ This same Duke is but + Apocryphal, there's no creation + That can stand where titles are not right. + + _Lov._ 'Tis true, Sir. + + _Shat._ That is another draught upon my life; + Let me examine well the words I spake. + The words I spake were, that this novel Duke + Is not o'th' true making, 'tis to me most certain. + + _Wife._ You are as right, Sir, as you went by line. + + _Shat._ And to the grief of many thousands more. + + _Wife._ If there be any such, God comfort them. + + _Shat._ Whose mouths may open when the time shall please; + I'm betray'd, commend me to the King, + And tell him I am sound, and crave but justice; + You shall not need to have your guard upon me, + Which I am sure are plac'd for my attachment; + Lead on; I'm obedient to my bonds. + + _Lov._ Good Sir be not displeased with us; + We are but servants to his Highness will, + To make that good. + + _Shat._ I do forgive you even with my heart; + Shall I entreat a favor? + + _Wife._ Any thing. + + _Shat._ To see my love before that fatal stroak, + And publish to the world my christian death, + And true obedience to the Crown of _France_. + + _Lov._ I hope it shall not need Sir, for there is mercy + As well as Justice in his Royal heart. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter three Gentlemen._ + + _1 Gent._ Every man take his corner, here am I, + You there, and you in that place, so be perfect, + Have a great care your cries be loud; and faces + Full of dejected fear and humbleness. + He comes. + + _Enter_ Jaques. + + _Ja._ Fye, how these streets are charg'd and swell'd + With these same rascally people! give more room, + Or I shall have occasion to distribute + A martial almes amongst you; as I am a Gentleman + I have not seen such rude disorder, + They follow him like a prize, there's no true gaper + Like to your Citizen, he will be sure + The Beares shall not pass by his door in peace, + But he and all his family will follow. + Room there afore: Sound: + + _Enter Duke and his company._ + + _Ja._ Give room, and keep your places, + you may see enough; keep your places. + + _Long._ These people are too far unmanner'd, thus + To stop your Graces way with multitudes. + + _Du._ Rebuke them not, good _Monsieur_, 'tis their loves + Which I will answer, if it please my stars + To spare me life and health. + + _2 Gen._ Bless your Grace. + + _Du._ And you with all my heart. + + _1 Gen._ Now heaven preserve your happy dayes: + + _Du._ I thank you too. + + _3. Gen._ Now Heaven save your Grace; + + _Du._ I thank you all. + + _Bew._ On there before. + + _Du._ Stand Gentlemen, stay yet a while. + For I am minded to impart my love + To these good people, and my friends, + Whose love and prayers for my greatness, + Are equal in abundance, note me well, + And with my words; my heart? for as the Tree-- + + _Long._ Your Grace had best beware, 'twill be inform'd + Your greatness with the people. + + _Duke._ I had more, + My honest, and ingenious people.--But + The weight of business hath prevented me. + I am call'd from you: but this tree I spake of + Shall bring forth fruit, I hope, to your content, + And so I share my bowels amongst you all. + + _Omnes._ A noble Duke, a very noble Duke. + + _Enter a Gentleman._ + + _Ser._ Afore there Gentlemen. + + _Gen._ You'r faithfully met good _Monsieur Mount Marine_. + + _Ser._ Be advis'd, the time is alter'd. + + _Gen._ Is he not the same man he was afore? + + _Duke._ Still the same man to you, Sir. + + _Long._ You have received mighty Grace, be thankful. + + _Gen._ Let me not dye in ignorance; + + _Long._ You shall not. + Then know, the King out of his love, hath pleas'd + To stile him Duke of _Burgundy_. + + _Gen._ O great Duke, + Thus low, I plead for pardon, and desire + To be enrol'd amongst your poorest slaves. + + _Du._ Sir, you have mercy, and withal my hand, + From henceforth let me call you one of mine. + + _Ser._ Make room afore there, and dismiss the people. + + _Du._ Every Man to his house in peace and quiet. + + _Peop._ Now heaven preserve the Duke, heaven bless the Duke. + [_Exeunt Omnes._ + + _Enter Wife._ + + _Wife._ This Letter came this morn from my Cosin + To the great Lady, high and mighty Duchess + Of _Burgundy_, be these delivered. Oh, + For a stronger lace to keep my breath + That I may laugh the nine days till the wonder + Fall to an ebb: the high and mighty Duchess? + The high and mighty God? what a stile is this! + Methinks it goes like a Duchy lope-man, + A ladder of 100 rounds will fail + To reach the top on't: well my gentle Cosin + I know by these contents, your itch of honor; + You must to the Court you say, and very shortly: + You shall be welcome; and if your wife have wit + I'll put her in a thriving course, if not + Her own sin on her own head, not a blot + Shall stain my reputation, only this + I must for healths sake sometimes make an ass + Of the tame moil my Husband; 'twill do him good, + And give him fresher brains, Me fresher bloud. + Now for the noble Duke, I hear him coming. + + _Enter Duke, his train._ + + Your Grace is well return'd. + + _Duke._ As well as may be: + Never in younger health, never more able: + I mean to be your bed-fellow this night, + Let me have good encounter. + + _Bew._ Bless me heaven + What a hot meat this greatness is! + + _Long._ It may be so, + For I'll be sworn he hath not got a snap + This two months on my knowledge, or her woman + Is damn'd for swearing it. + + _Duke._ I thank you Gentlemen for your attendance + And also your great pains, pray know my Lodgings + Better and oftner, do so Gentlemen. + Now by my honor, as I am a Prince, + I speak sincerely, know my lodgings better, + And be not strangers, I shall see your service + And your deservings, when you least expect. + + _Om._ We humbly thank your grace for this great favor. + + _Du._ _Jaques?_ + + _Jaq._ Your Grace. + + _Du._ Be ready for the Countrey, + And let my Tenants know the Kings great love: + Say I would see them, but the weight at Court + Lies heavy on my shoulders: let them know + I do expect their duties in attendance + Against the next feast, wait for my coming + To take up Post-horse, and be full of speed. [_Exit_ Jaq. + + _Wife._ I would desire your Grace-- + + _Du._ You shall desire, and have your + Full desire: sweet Duchess speak. + + _Wife._ To have some conference with a Gentleman + That seems not altogether void of reason. + He talks of Titles, and things near the Crown, + And knowing none so fit as your [good] Grace, + To give the difference in such points of State-- + + _Du._ What is he? if he be noble, or have any part + That's worthy our converse, we do accept him. + + _Wife._ I can assure your Grace, his strain is noble, + But he's very subtle. + + _Duke._ Let him be so. + Let him have all the brains, I shall demonstrate + How this most Christian Crown of _France_ can bear + No other shew of Title than the Kings. + I will go in and meditate for half an hour, + And then be ready for him presently, + I will convert him quickly, or confound him. + + _Serv._ Is mad _Shattillion_ here? + + _Wife._ Is here, and's Lady, + I prethee servant fetch him hither. + + _Serv._ Why, what do you mean to put him to? + + _Wife._ To chat with the mad lad my Husband; + 'Twill be brave to hear them speak, babble, + Stare, and prate. + + _Bew._ But what shall be the end of all this, Lady? + + _Enter_ Shattillion _and Lady_. + + _Wife._ Leave that to me, now for the grand dispute, + For see, here comes _Shattillion_: as I live, methinks + All _France_ should bear part of his griefs. + + _Long._ I'll fetch my Lord the Duke. + + _Shat._ Where am I now, or whether will you lead me? + To my death? I crave my priviledge, + I must not dye, but by just course of Law. + + _Serv._ His Majesty hath sent by me your pardon, + He meant not you should dye; but would intreat you + To lay the full state of your Title open, + Unto a grave and Noble Gentleman. + + _Enter_ Duke _and_ Longovile. + + The Duke of _Burgundy_ who here doth come, + Who, either by his wisdom will confute you, + Or else inform and satisfie the King. + + _Bew._ May't please your grace, this is the Gentleman. + + _Duke._ Is this he that chops Logick with my Liege? + + _Shat._ D'ye mock me? you are great, the time will come, + When you shall be as much contemn'd as I, + Where are the antient compliments of _France_, + The upstarts brave the Princes of the bloud? + + _Duke._ Your Title Sir, in short. + + _Shat._ He must Sir, + Be a better States-man than your self, that can + Trip me in any thing, I will not speak + Before these witnesses. + + _Duke._ Depart the room, for none shall stay, + No, not my dearest Duchess. + + _Wife._ We'll stand behind the Arras and hear all. [_Exeunt._ + + _Duke._ In that chair take your place, I in this, + Discourse your Title now. + + _Shat._ Sir, you shall know, + My Loves true Title, mine by Marriage, + Setting aside the first race of _French_ Kings, + Which will not here concern us, as _Pharamond_, + With _Clodian_, _Meroveus_, and _Chilperick_, + And to come down unto the second Race, + Which we will likewise slip-- + + _Duke._ But take me with you. + + _Shat._ I pray you give me leave, of _Martel Charles_, + The Father of King _Pippin_, who was, Sire + To _Charles_ the Great, and famous _Charlemain_. + And to come to the third Race of _French_ Kings, + Which will not be greatly pertinent in this cause, + Betwixt the King and me, of which you know + _HUGH CAPET_ was the first, + Next his Son _Robert_, _Henry_ then, and _Philip_ + With _Lewis_, and his Son a _Lewis_ too, + And of that name the Seventh, but all this + Springs from a Female, as it shall appear. + + _Duke._ Now give me leave, I grant you this your Title + At the first sight, carries some shew of truth; + But if ye weigh it well, ye shall find light. + Is not his Majesty possest in peace, + And justice executed in his name, + And can you think the most Christian King + Would do this if he saw not reason for it? + + _Shat._ But had not the Tenth _Lewis_ a sole Daughter? + + _Duke._ I cannot tell. + + _Shat._ But answer me directly. + + _Duke._ It is a most seditious question. + + _Shat._ Is this your justice? + + _Duke._ I stand for my King. + + _Shat._ Was ever Heir-apparant thus abus'd? + I'll have your head for this. + + _Duke._ Why, do your worst. + + _Shat._ Will no one stir to apprehend this Traitor? + A guard about my person, will none come? + Must my own royal hands perform the deed? + Then thus I do arrest you. + + _Duke._ Treason, help. + + _Enter Wife_, Long. Bew. _and Serv._ + + _Wife._ Help, help, my Lord and Husband. + + _Duke._ Help the Duke. + + _Long._ Forbear his grace's person. + + _Shat._ Forbear you to touch him that + Your Heir-apparent weds, + But by this hand, I will have all your heads. [_Exit._ + + _Serv._ How doth your Grace? + + _Duke._ Why? well. + + _Serv._ How do you find his Title? + + _Duke._ 'Tis a dangerous one, + As can come by a female. + + _Serv._ I, 'tis true, + But the Law _Salique_ cuts him off from all. + + _Long._ I do beseech your Grace, how stands his Title? + + _Duke._ Pew, nothing; the Law _Salique_ cuts him off from all. + + _Wife._ My gracious Husband, you must now prepare, + In all your Graces pomp to entertain + Your Cosin, who is now a convertite, + And follows here, this night he will be here. + + _Duke._ Be ready all in haste, I do intend, + To shew before my Cosin's wondring face, + The greatness of my pomp, and of my place. [_Exeunt omnes._ + + + + + _Actus Quartus. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter Cosin and his Wife._ + + _Cos._ Sirrah, is all things carried to the Tailor? + The measure, and the fashion of the Gown, + With the best trim? + + _Man._ Yes Sir, and 'twill be ready within this two days. + + _Cos._ For my self I care not, + I have a suit or two of antient Velvet; + Which with some small correcting and addition, + May steal into the presence. + + _Wife._ Would my Gown were ready; Husband, I'll lay my life, + To make you something e'r to morrow night. + + _Cos._ It must not be + Before we see the Duke, and have advice, + How to behave our selves: lets in the while, + And keep our selves from knowledge, till time shall call us. + + _Enter_ Long. _and_ Bew. + + _Long._ I much admire the fierce _masculine_ spirit, + Of this dread _Amazon_. + + _Bew._ This following night I'll have a wench in solace. + + _Long._ Sir, I hear you, + And will be with you if I live, no more. + + _Enter_ Maria. + + _Ma._ My Lady would intreat your presence, Gentlemen. + + _Bew._ We will obey your Lady, she is worthy. + + _Long._ You, light alone, a word, or two. + + _Ma._ Your Will, Sir. + + _Long._ Hark in your ear; wilt thou be married? speak, wilt thou + marry? + + _Ma._ Married? to whom Sir? + + _Long._ To a proper fellow, landed, and able bodied. + + _Ma._ Why do you flout me, Sir? + + _Long._ I swear I do not; I love thee for thy Ladies sake, be free? + + _Ma._ If I could meet such matches as you speak of, + I were a very child to lose my time, Sir. + + _Long._ What saist thou to Monsieur _Bewford_? + + _Ma._ Sir, I say he's a proper Gentleman, and far + Above my means to look at. + + _Long._ Dost thou like him? + + _Ma._ Yes Sir, and ever did. + + _Long._ He is thine own. + + _Ma._ You are too great in promises. + + _Long._ Be rul'd, and follow my advice, he shall be thine. + + _Ma._ Would you would make it good, Sir. + + _Long._ Do but thus, + Get thee a cushion underneath thy cloaths, + And leave the rest to me. + + _Ma._ I'll be your scholar, + I cannot lose much by the venture sure. + + _Long._ Thou wilt lose a pretty maidenhead, my rogue, + Or I am much o'th' bow hand, you'll remember + If all this take effect, who did it for you, + And what I may deserve for such a kindness. + + _Ma._ Yours Sir. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Jaques _and_ Shattillion _severally_. + + _Jaq._ Save ye Sir. + + _Shat._ Save the King. + + _Jaq._ I pray you Sir, which is the nearest way. + + _Shat._ Save the King, this is the nearest way. + + _Jaq._ Which is the nearest way to the Post-house? + + _Shat._ God save the King and his Post-house. + + _Jaq._ I pray Sir direct me to the house. + + _Shat._ Heaven save the King, you cannot catch me, Sir. + + _Jaq._ I do not understand you, Sir. + + _Shat._ You do not, I say you cannot catch me, Sir. + + _Jaq._ Not catch you, Sir? + + _Shat._ No Sir, nor can the King, + With all his stratagems, and his forced tricks, + Although he put his Nobles in disguise; + Never so oft to sift into my words, + By course of Law, lay hold upon my life. + + _Jaq._ It is business that my Lord the Duke + Is by the King imployed in, and he thinks + I am acquainted with it. + + _Shat._ I shall not need to rip the cause up, + From the first, to you, + But if his Majesty had suffer'd me + To marry her, though she be after him, + The right heir general to the Crown of _France_. + I would not have convey'd her into _Spain_, + As it was thought, nor would I e'er have joyn'd, + With the reformed Churches, to make them, + Stand for my cause. + + _Jaq._ I do not think you would. + + _Shat._ I thank you Sir, + And since I see you are a favourer + Of virtues, kept in bondage; + Tell directly to my soveraign King, + For so I will acknowledge him for ever, + How you have found my staid affections + Setled for peace, and for the present state. + + _Jaq._ Why Sir? + + _Shat._ And good Sir, tell him further this, + That notwithstanding all suggestions + Brought to him against me, and all his suspitions, + Which are innumerable to my treasons, + If he will warrant me but publique trial, + I'll freely yeild my self into his hands; + Can he have more than this? + + _Jaq._ No by my troth. + + _Shat._ I would his Majesty would hear but reason, + As well as you. + + _Jaq._ But Sir, you do mistake me, + For I never saw the King. + In all my life but once, therefore good Sir, + May it please you to shew me which is the Post-house. + + _Sha._ I cry you mercy, Sir, then you are my friend. + + _Jaq._ Yes Sir. + + _Sha._ And such men are very rare with me, + The Post-house is hard by, farewel; + + _Jaq._ I thank you, Sir, I must ride hard to night, + And it is dark already. + + _Sha._ I am cruel, to send this man directly to his death + That is my friend, and I might easily save him, + He shall not dye, come back, my friend, come back. + + _Jaq._ What is your Will? + + _Sha._ Do you not know? + + _Jaq._ Not I. + + _Sha._ And do you gather nothing by my face? + + _Jaq._ No Sir. + + _Sha._ Virtue is ever innocent, + Lay not the fault on me, I grieve for you, + And wish that all my tears might win your safety. + + _Jaq._ Why Sir? + + _Sha._ Alas good friend you are undone, + The more ill fortune, mine to be the means + Of your sad overthrow, you know not me. + + _Jaq._ No truly Sir. + + _Sha._ Would you had never seen me, + I am a man pursu'd by the whole state + And sure some one hath seen me talk with you. + + _Jaq._ Yes, divers Sir. + + _Sha._ Why then your head is gone. + + _Jaq._ I'll out of town. + + _Sha._ Would it were soon enough, + Stay if you love your life, or else you are taken. + + _Jaq._ What shall I do? + + _Sha._ I'll venture deeply for him, + Rather than to cast away an innocent, + Take courage friend, I will preserve thy life, + With hazard of mine own. + + _Jaq._ I thank you, Sir. + + _Sha._ This night thou shalt be lodg'd within my doors, + Which shall be all lock'd fast, and in the morn + I'll so provide, you shall have free access, + To the Sea-side, and so be shipt away, + E'r any know it. + + _Jaq._ Good Sir, suddainly, I am afraid to dye. + + _Sha._ Then follow me. [_Exeunt_. + + _Enter_ Shatillion's _Love._ + + _Love._ This way he went, and there's the house, I hope, + His better Angel hath directed him, + To leave the wandring streets, poor Gentleman. + Would I were able with as free a heart, + To set his soul right, as I am to grieve, + The ruine of his fame, which God forgive me; + Sir, if you be within, I pray Sir speak to me. + + _Sha._ I am within, and will be; what are you? + + _Love._ A friend. + + _Sha._ No Sir, you must pardon me, + I am acquainted with none such: be speedy, + Friend, there is no other remedy. + + _Love._ A word Sir, I say, I am your friend. + + _Sha._ You cannot scape by any other means, + Be not fearful, God save the King, + What's your business, Sir? + + _Lov._ To speak with you. + + _Sha._ Speak out then. + + _Lov._ Shall I not come up? + + _Sha._ Thou shalt not: flie if thou be'st thine own friend, + There lies the suit and all the furniture + Belonging to the head, on with it friend. + + _Lov._ Sir do you hear? + + _Sha._ I do, God bless the King, + It was a habit I had laid aside, + For my own person, if the state had forced me. + + _Love._ Good Sir, unlock your door. + + _Sha._ Be full of speed, I see some 20 Musquetiers in ambush + Whate'r thou art, know I am here and will be, + Seest thou this bloody sword that cries revenge? + Shake not my friend, through millions of these foes + I'll be thy guard, and set thee safe aboard. + + _Lov._ Dare you not trust me, Sir? + + _Sha._ My good sword before me, + And my allegeance to the King I tell thee + Captain (for so I ghess thee by thy Arms) + And the loose flanks of Halberdiers about thee, + Thou art too weak, and foolish to attempt me. + If you be ready, follow me, and hark you + Upon your life speak to no living wight, + Except my self. + + _Love._ Monsieur _Shattillion_? + + _Sha._ Thou shalt not call agen; thus with my sword, + And the strong faith I bear unto the King; + Whom God preserve, I will de[sc]end my chamber, + And cut thy throat, I swear I'll cut thy throat, + Steal after me and live. + + _Love._ I will not stay. + The fury of a man so far distracted. [_Exit_ Love. + + _Enter_ Shattillion. + + Where's the Officer that dares not enter, + To intrap the life of my distressed friend? + I, have you hid your self? you must be found, + What do you fear? is not authority on your side + Nay, I know the Kings command + Will be your warrant, why then fear you? speak + What strange designs are these? _Shattillion_, + Be resolute and bear thy self upright, + Though the whole world despise thee: soft, methinks. + I heard a rushing which was like the shake + Of a discovered Officer, I'll search + The whole street over, but I'll find thee out. [_Exit._ + + _Enter_ Jaques _in womans apparel_. + + _Jaq._ How my joynts do shake, where had I been + But for this worthy Gentleman, that + Hath some touch of my infortunes; would I were + Safe under hatches once, for _Callicut_, + Farewel the pomp of Court, I never more + Can hope to be a Duke or any thing, + I never more shall see the glorious face + Of my fair spreading Lord that lov'd me well. + + _Enter_ Shattillion. + + _Shat._ Fly you so fast? I had a sight of you, + But would not follow you; I was too wise, + You shall not lead me with a cunning trick; + Where you may catch me; poor _Shattillion_; + Hath the Kings anger left thee never a friend? + No, all mens loves move by the breath of Kings. + + _Jaq._ It is the Gentleman that sav'd my life, Sir. + + _Shat._ Bless _Shattillion_, another plot. + + _Jaq._ No Sir, 'tis I. + + _Shat._ Why, who are you? + + _Jaq._ Your friend whom you preserv'd. + + _Shat._ Whom I preserv'd? + My friend? I have no woman friend but one, + Who is too close in prison to be here; + Come near, let me look on you. + + _Jaq._ 'Tis I. + + _Shat._ You should not be a woman by your stature. + + _Jaq._ I am none, Sir. + + _Shat._ I know it, then keep off, + Strange men and times! how I am still preserv'd! + Here they have sent a yeoman of the guard, + Disguis'd in womans clothes, to work on me, + To make love to me; and to trap my words, + And so insnare my life, I know you, Sir, + Stand back, upon your peril, can this be + In _Christian_ Common-weals, from this time forth + I'll cut off all the means to work on me, + I'll ne'er stir from my house: and keep my doors + Lockt day and night, and cheapen meat and drink + At the next shops by Signs, out of my window, + And having bought it, draw it up in my garters. + + _Jaq._ Sir, will you help me? + + _Shat._ Do not follow me, + I'll take a course to live, despight of men. [_Exit_ Shat. + + _Jaq._ He dares not venture for me, wretched _Jaques_! + Thou art undone for ever and for ever, + Never to rise again? what shall I do? + + _Enter_ Bewfort. + + Where shall I hide me? here's one to take me, + I must stand close, and not speak for my life. + + _Bew._ This is the time of night, and this the haunt, + In which I use to catch my Wastcoatiers, + It is not very dark, no, I shall spie 'em, + I have walk't out in such a pitchy night. + I could not see my fingers this far off, + And yet have brought home venison by the smell, + I hope they have not left their old walk, ah? + Have I spied you sitting by this light? + To me there's no such fine sight in the world, + As a white apron 'twixt twelve and one; + See how it glisters! do you think to scape? + See now I have you fast; come, and do not strive, + It takes away the edge of appetite; + Come, I'll be liberal every way. + Take heed you make no noise, for waking of the Watch. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter Cosin and his Wife._ + + _Cos._ Now the blessing of some happy guide, + To bring us to the Duke, and we are ready. + + _Enter_ Long. _and Servant_. + + Come forward, see the door is open'd, + And two of his Gent. I'll speak to them, + And mark how I behave my self, God save ye; + For less I cannot wish to men of sort, and of your seeming: + Are you of the Dukes? + + _Long._ We are, Sir, and your servants, your salutes, + We give you back again with many thanks. + + _Cos._ When did you hear such words before Wife? peace, + Do you not dare to answer yet; is't fit + So mean a Gentleman as my self should crave, + The presence of the great Duke your Master? + + _Serv._ Sir you may. + + _Long._ Shall we desire your name, and business, Sir? + And we will presently inform him of you. + + _Cos._ My name is _Cleremont_. + + _Serv._ You are his Graces kinsman, + Or I am much mistaken? + + _Cos._ You are right, + Some of his noble bloud runs through these veins, + Though far unworthy of his graces knowledge. + + _Long._ Sir, we must all be yours; his graces kinsman, + And we so much forgetful? 'twas a rudeness, + And must attend your pardon, thus I crave it: + First to this beauteous Lady, whom I take + To be your Wife, Sir, next your mercy. + + _Cos._ You have it, Sir, I do not like this kissing, + It lies so open to a world of wishes. + + _Serv._ This is the merry fellow; this is he + That must be noble too. + + _Long._ And so he shall. + If all the Art I have can make him noble, + I'll dub him with a Knight-hood; if his wife + Will be but forward, and joyn issue, + I like her above excellent. + + _Serv._ Wil't please you + To walk a turn or two, whilst to the Duke + We make your comming known? [_Exit Serv. and_ Long. + + _Cos._ I shall attend, Sir. + + _Wife._ These Gentlemen are very proper men, + And kiss the best that e'er I tasted. + For goodness-sake husband, let us never more + Come near the Countrey, whatsoe'er betide us; + I am in malice with the memory + Of that same stinking dung-hil. + + _Cos._ Why now you are my chicken and my dear, + Love where I love, hate where I hate: now + You shall have twenty Gowns, and twenty Chains, + See, the door is opening. + + _Groom._ Room afore there, the Duke is entring. + + _Enter Duke_, _Wife_, Long. _Servant_, Maria. + + _Cos._ 'Tis the Duke, even he himself, be merry, + This is the golden age the Poet speaks on. + + _Wife._ I pray it be not brazen'd by their faces, + And yet methinks they are the neatest Pieces + For shape, and cutting that e'er I beheld. + + _Cos._ Most gracious Duke, my poor Spouse and my self, + Do kiss your mighty foot, and next to that + The great hand of your Dutchess, ever wishing + Your honors ever springing, and your years. + + _Duke._ Cosin? + + _Cos._ Your Graces vassal, far unworthy + The nearness of your blood. + + _Duke._ Correct me not, I know the word I speak, + And know the person. + Though I be something higher than the place + Where common men have motion, and descending + Down with my eye, their forms are lessened to me; + Yet from this pitch can I behold my own, + From millions of those men that have no mark, + And in my fearful stoop, can make them stand, + When others feel my feet, and perish: Cosin, + Be comforted, you are very welcome, so + Is your fair Wife: the charge of whom I give + To my own dearest, and best beloved. + Tell me, you have resolv'd your self for Court, + And utterly renounc'd the slavish Countrey, + With all the cares thereof? + + _Cos._ I have, Sir. + + _Duke._ Have you dismist your eating houshold, + Sold your hangings of _Nebuchadnezar_, for such they were, + As I remember, with the Furnitures + Belonging to your Beds and Chambers? + + _Cos._ I Sir. + + _Duke._ Have you most carefully ta'en off the Lead, + From you[r] roof, weak with age, and so prevented + The ruin of your house, and clapt him + In a summer suit of thatch to keep him cool? + + _Cos._ All this I have perform'd. + + _Duke._ Then lend me all your hands, I will embrace my Cosin + Who is an understanding Gentleman, + And with a zeal mighty, as is my name, + Once more I bid you welcome to the Court; + My state again. + + _Duch._ As I was telling you, your Husband + Must be no more Commander, look to that, + Be several at meat, and lodging, let him have + Board-wages, and Diet, 'mongst his men i'th' Town + For pleasure, if he be given to't, let him have it, + Else as your own fancy shall direct you. + Cosin, you see this mighty man here: he was an ass + When he came first to Town: indeed he was + Just such another coxcomb as your Husband, + God bless the mark, and every good mans child! + This must not stir you Cosin. + + _Wif._ Heaven forbid! + + _Long._ Sweet _Maria_; provide the cushion ready for it. + + _Mar._ It shall be done. + + _Duke._ Receive all your advices from our self, + Be once a day with us, and so farewel + For this time, my fair Cosin, Gentlemen + Conduct him to his Lodging. + + _Duch._ Farewel, and think upon my words. + + _Wife._ I shall observe them. [_Exit Duke and Duchess._ + + _Cos._ Health, and the Kings continual love, attend you. + + _Serv._ Oh for a private place to ease my Lungs! + Heaven give me patience, such a pair of jades + Were never better ridden to this hour, + Pray heaven they hold out to the journeys end. + + _Long._ Twitch him aside good _Monsieur_, whilst I break + Upon the body of his strength, his wife, + I have a constant promise: she is my own. + + _Serv._ Ply her to wind-ward _Monsieur_, you have taken + The most compendious way to raise your self, + That could have been delivered by a Counsel. + + _Cos._ I have some certain aims, Sir: but my wife-- + + _Serv._ Your wife, you must not let that trouble you. + + _Cos._ It will Sir, to see her in a strangers arms. + + _Serv._ What mean you? let her alone, be wise, stir not a foot + For if you do, all your hopes are buried: + I swear you are a lost man if you stir. + + _Cos._ I thank you Sir, I will be more advis'd. + + _Serv._ But what great Office do you level at? + + _Cos._ Sir, they are kissing. + + _Serv._ Let them kiss, + And much may do their good hearts; they must kiss + And kiss, and double kiss, and kiss again, + Or you may kiss the post for any rising: + Had your noble kinsman ever mounted + To these high Spheres of honor, now he moves in, + But for the kisses of his wife? + + _Cos._ I know not. + + _Serv._ Then I do; credit me, he had been lost, + A fellow of no mark, and no repute. + Had not his wife kist soon, and very sweetly: + She was an excellent woman, and dispatcht him + To his full being, in a moment, Sir-- [_Exit_ Long. _and Wife_. + + _Cos._ But yet methinks he [sh]ould not take her, Sir, + Into a private room. + + _Serv._ Now stand and flourish, + You are a mad[e] man for ever. + I do envy you if you stand your fortunes up, + You are the happiest man, but your great Cosin, + This day in Court: well, I will marry surely, + And not let every man out-run me thus. + 'Tis time to be mine own friend, I live + In town here, and direct the readiest way, + To other men, and be a slave my self. + + _Cos._ Nay, good Sir be not mov'd, I am your servant, + And will not be ungrateful for this knowledge. + + _Serv._ Will you be walking home? + + _Cos._ I would desire to have my wife along. + + _Serv._ You are too raw, + Begone, and take no notice where you left her, + Let her return at leasure, if she stay + A month, 'twill be the better, understand me + This Gentleman can do't. [_Exit Cosin._ + + _Cos._ I will Sir, and wife remember me, a Duke, a Duke wife. + + _Serv._ Aboard her _Longaveile,_ she's thine own, + To me the fooling of this fool is venery. [_Exit Servant._ + + _Enter_ Bewford _and_ Jaques. + + _Bew._ Come, prethee come, have I not crowns? behold + And follow me, here; not a word, go in + Grope by the walls, and you shall find a bed, + Lie down there, see, see, a turn or two, to give + My blood some heats, and I am presently + For action: darkness, by thy leave, I come. [_Exit_ Bew. + + _Enter_ Maria. + + _Ma._ I am perfect in my lesson, be my speed, + Thou god of marriage, this is the door, I'll knock. + + Bew. _within_. Whose there, I cannot come yet. + + _Ma._ Monsieur _Bewford_? + + _Bew._ Stay till I light a candle, who are ye? + + _Ma._ Sir? a poor Gentlewoman. + + _Enter_ Bewford. + + _Bew._ Oh come in, I'll find a time for you too, be not loud. + + _Ma._ Sir, you have found that time already, shame + On my soul therefore. + + _Bew._ Why? what's the matter? + + _Ma._ Do you not see, Sir, is your light so dim? + + _Bew._ Do you not wait on the Lady Mount _Marine_? + + _Ma._ I do Sir, but my love on you. + + _Bew._ Poor soul! how cam'st thou by this big belly? + + _Ma._ By your self. + + _Bew._ By heaven I ne'er touch'd your body. + + _Ma._ Yes, unswear that oath again, I'll tell you all; + These two years I have lov'd you, but the means + How to enjoy you, I did never know + Till Twelf-night last, when hearing of your game + To take up wenches private in the night, + I apprehended straight this course to make + My self as one of them, and wait your coming; + I did so, and enjoyed you, and now this child + That now is quick within me, hide my shame, + And marry me, or else I must be forc'd-- + + _Long. within._ Monsieur _Bewford_, Monsieur _Bewford_. + + _Bew._ Whose that calls? + + _Long._ Are you a bed? + + _Bew._ No Sir, the hangings. + + _Enter_ Longaveil. + + _Long._ Nay _Monsieur_, I'll forbid that, we'll have fair play, + Lend me your candle, are you taken _Bewford_? + A lecher of your practice, and close carriage + To be discovered thus? I am asham'd + So great a master in his art should fail, + And stagger in his grounds. + + _Bew._ You're wide, + This woman and my self are man and wife, + And have been so this half year, + Where are you now? have I been discover'd? + You cannot break so easily on me, Sir, + I am too wary to be open'd by you. + + _Long._ But these are but illusions, to give colour + To your most mystick leachery, but Sir, + The belly hath betraid you all, it must out. + + _Bew._ Good _Longaveil_ believe me on my faith, + I am her husband. + + _Long._ On my faith I cannot, unless I saw + Your hands fast, and your hearts. + + _Bew._ Why _Longavile_, when did I give that to your ears, + That was not truth? by all the world she's mine, + She is my wife, and to confirm you better + I give my self again, here take my hand + And I yours, we are once more married, + Will this content you? + + _Long._ Yes I am believing, and God give you joy. + + _Bew._ My loving wife, I will not wrong thee, + Since I am thine and only loved of thee + From this hour I vow my self a new man, + Be not jealous: for though I had a purpose, + To have spent an hour or two in solace otherwise, + And was provided for it, yet my love + Shall put a better temper to my blood, + Come out thou woman of unwholsome life, + Be sorry for thy sins, and learn to mend, + Nay, never hide your face, you shall be seen. + + _Long._ _Jaques_, why _Jaques_, art thou that _Jaques_, + The very staffe, and right hand of our Duke? + Speak, thou bearded _Venus_. + + _Jaq._ I am he, by miracle preserv'd to be that _Jaques_, + Within this two hours Gentlemen, poor _Jaques_ + Was but as coarse in grave: a man of wisdom, + That of my conscience, if he had his right + Should have a pretty State, but that's all one + That Noble Gentleman did save this life, + I keep it for him, 'tis his own. + + _Long._ Oh _Bacchus_! is all the world drunk? come we'll to the Duke + And give thanks for this delivery. + + + + + _Actus Quintus. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter Duke and_ Jaques. + + _Duke._ Not gone unto my Tenants to relate + My Grace and Honor; [and] the mightiness + Of my new name, which would have struck a terror + Through their course doublets, to their very hearts? + + _Jaq._ Alas, great Lord and Master, I could scarce + With safety of my life return again + Unto your graces house, and but for one + That had some mercy, I had sure been hang'd. + + _Duke._ My house? + + _J[a]q._ Yes Sir, this house, your house i' th' Town. + + _Duke._ _Jaques_ we are displeas'd, hath it no name? + + _Jaq._ What name? + + _Duke._ Dull rogue; what hath the King bestow'd + So many honors, open'd all his springs, + And show'red his graces down upon my head, + And has my house no name? no title yet? + _Burgundy_ house you ass. + + _Jaq._ Your graces mercy, + when I was come off, and had recover'd + _Burgundy_ house, I durst not yet be seen, + But lay all night for fear of pursevants + In _Burgundy_ privie house. + + _Duke._ Oh Sir, 'tis well, + Can you remember now? but _Jaques_ know + Since thy intended journey is so crost, + I will go down my self this morning. + + _Jaq._ Sir? + + _Duke._ Have I not said this morning? + + _Jaq._ But consider, + That nothing is prepared yet for your journey, + Your graces teams not here to draw your cloaths; + And not a Carrier yet in town to send by. + + _Duke._ I say once more go about it, + You're a wise man, you'd have me linger time, + Till I have worn these cloaths out: will ye go? [_Ex._ Jaq. + Make ye ready Wife. + + _Enter Wife._ + + _Duc._ I am so, mighty Duke. + + _Duke._ Nay, for the Countrey. + + _Duc._ How? for the Countrey? + + _Duke._ Yes I am resolv'd to see my Tenants in this bravery, + Make them a sumptuous feast, with a slight shew, + Of _Dives_ and _Lazarus_, and a squib or two, + And so return. + + _Duc._ Why Sir? you are not mad? + + _Duke._ How many Dukes have ye known mad? I pray speak. + + _Duc._ You are the first, Sir, and I hope the last, + But you are stark horn-mad. + + _Duke._ Forbear good wife. + + _Duc._ As I have faith you're mad: your horns + Have been too heavy for you, and have broke + Your skull in pieces: If you be in earnest. + + _Duke._ Well, you shall know my skull and wits are whole + E'r I have done, and yet I am in earnest. + + _Duc._ Why, do you think I'll go? + + _Duke._ I know you shall. + + _Duc._ I shall? by what authority shall I? + + _Duke._ I am your Husband. + + _Duc._ True, I confess it, + And by that name, the world hath given you + A power to sway me; but Sir, you shall know + There is a greater bond that ties me here, + Allegeance to the King, has he not heapt + Those honors on you to no other end, + But to stay you here, and shall I have a hand + In the offending such a gracious Prince? + Besides, our own undoings lies upon't, + Were there no other cause, I do not see, + Why you should go: If I should say you should not. + + _Duke._ Do you think so? + + _Duc._ Yes faith. + + _Duke._ Now good wife make me understand that point. + + _Duc._ Why that you shall, did I not bring you hither? + + _Duke._ Yes. + + _Duc._ And were not all these honors wrought out of the fire by me? + + _Duke._ By you? + + _Duc._ By me? how strange you make it! + When you came first, did you not walk the Town, + In a long Cloak half compass? an old Hat, + Lin'd with Vellure, and on it for a band, + A skein of crimson Cruil? + + _Duke._ I confess it. + + _Duc._ And took base courses? + + _Duke._ Base? + + _Duc._ Base, by this light, extream base, and scurvie, monstrous base. + + _Du[k]e._ What were these courses, wife? + + _Duc._ Why, you shall know, + Did you not thus attir'd, trot up and down, + Plotting for vild and lowsie Offices, + And agreed with the Sergeant of the Bears, + To buy his place? deny this, if you can. + + _Duke._ Why it is true. + + _Duc._ And was not that monstrous base? + + _Duke._ Be advis'd wife, a Bear's a Princely beast. + + _Duc._ A Bear? + + _Duke._ Yes wife, and one side venison. + + _Duc._ You're more than one side fool, [I'm] sure of that. + + _Duke._ But since you have vext me wife, know you shall go; + Or you shall never have penny from me. + + _Duc._ Nay, I have done, and though I know 'twill be + Your overthrow, I'll not forsake you now. + + _Duke._ Be ready then. [_Exit Duke._ + + _Duc._ I will. + + _Enter_ Bewf. Long. _Serv._ Maria. + + _Long._ What are you married _Bewford_? + + _Bew._ I, as fast as words, and hearts, and hands, and Priest can + make us. + + _Duc._ Oh Gentlemen, we are undone. + + _Long._ For what? + + _Duc._ This Gentleman, the Lord of _Lor[n]e_, my Husband, + Will be gone down to shew his play-fellows + Where he is gay. + + _Bew._ What, down into [the] Countrey? + + _Duc._ Yes faith, was ever fool but he so cross? + I would as fain be gracious to him, + As he could wish me, but he will not let me; + Speak faithfully, will he deserve my mercy? + + _Long._ According to his merits he should wear, + A guarded coat, and a great wooden dagger. + + _Duc._ If there be any woman that doth know, + The duties 'twixt a Husband and his wife, + Will speak but one word for him, he shall scape; + Is not that reasonable? but there's none, + Be ready therefore, to pursue the plot + We had against a pinch, for he must stay. + + _Long._ Wait you here for him, whilst I goe + And make the King acquainted with your sport, + For fear he be incens'd for our attempting + Places of so great honor. [_Exit_ Long. + + _Duc._ Go, be speedy. + + _Enter Duke_, _Cosin_, _Wife_, Jaques, _Man_. + + _Duke._ Come let me see how all things are dispos'd of. + + _Jaq._ One Cart will serve for all your furniture, + With room enough behind to ease the Footman, + A capcase for you[r] linnen, and your plate, + With a strange lock that opens with _Amen_, + For my young Lord, because of easie portage, + A quiver of your graces lin'd with Cunney, + Made to be hang'd about the Nurses neck, + Thus, with a Scarfe or Towel. + + _Duke._ Very good. + + _Jaq._ Nay, 'tis well, but had you staid another week, + I would have had you furnisht, in such pomp, + As never Duke of _Burgundy_ was furnisht, + You should have had a Sumpter, though 't had cost me + The laying on my self, where now you are fain, + To hire a Rippers mare, and buy new dossers, + But I have got them painted with your Arms, + With a fair darnex Carpet of my own + Laid cross for the more state. + + _Duke._ _Jaques_ I thank you: your Carpet shall be brusht + And sent you home; what, are you ready wife? + + _Duc._ An hour ago. + + _Duke._ I cannot chuse but kiss thy royal Lips, + Dear _Duchess_ mine, thou art so good a woman. + + _Bew._ Youl'd say so if you knew all, goodman Duckling. + + _Cos._ This was the happiest fortune could befal me + Now in his absence will I follow close + Mine own preferment, and I hope e'r long, + To make my mean and humble name so strong, + As my great Cosins, when the world shall know, + I bear too hot a spirit to live low. + The next Spring will I down, my wife and houshold, + I'll have my Ushers, and my four Lacquies, + Six spare Caroches too, but mum, no more, + What I intend to do, I'll keep in store. + + _Duke._ Mountey, mountey, _Jaques_, be our Querry. + + _Groom._ To horse there Gentlemen, and fall in couples. + + _Duke._ Come honoured Duchess. + + _Enter_ Longavile. + + _Long._ Stand thou proud man. + + _Duke._ Thieves, _Jaques_, raise the people. + + _Long._ No, raise no people, 'tis the Kings command, + Which bids thee once more stand, thou haughty man, + Thou art a monster, for thou art ungrateful, + And like a fellow of a rebel nature, + Hast flung from his embraces: and for + His honors given thee, hast not return'd + So much as thanks, and to oppose his Will, + Resolv'd to leave the Court, and set the Realm + A fire, in discontent, and open action: + Therefore he bids thee stand, thou proud man, + Whilst with the whisking of my sword about, + I take thy honors off: this first sad whisk + Takes off thy Dukedom, thou art but an Earl. + + _Duke._ You are mistaken, _Longavile_. + + _Long._ Oh would I were: this second whisk divides + Thy Earldom from thee, thou art yet a Baron. + + _Duke._ No more whisks if you love me _Longavile_. + + _Long._ Two whisks are past, and two are yet behind, + Yet all must come, but not to linger time. + With these two whisks I end, now mount _Marine_, + For thou art now no more, so says the King, + And I have done his Highness Will with grief. + + _Duke._ Degraded from my honors? + + _Long._ 'Tis too certain. + + _Duke._ I am no Traitor sure, that I know of; + Speak _Jaques_, hast thou ever heard me utter word + Tending to Treason, or to bring in the enemy? + + _Jaq._ Alas Sir, I know nothing, + Why should your Worship bring me in to hang me? + [God's my judge Gentlemen] I never medled + But with the brushing of his cloaths, or fetching + In water in a morning for his hands. + + _Cos._ Are these the honors of this place? _Anthony_ + Help me to take her Gown off quickly, + Or I'll so swinge ye for't-- + + _Wife._ Why Husband? Sir? + + _Cos._ I'll not loose a penny by this town. + + _Long._ Why what do you mean, Sir, have her to her lodging, + And there undress her, I will wait upon her. + + _Cos._ Indeed you shall not, your month is out I take it, + Get you out before me wife: + Cosin farewel, I told you long agoe, + That pride begins with pleasure, ends with woe. [_Exit with's Wife._ + + _Bew._ Goe thy way sentences, 'twill be thy fortune, + To live and dye a Cuckold, and Churchwarden. + + _Duc._ Oh my poor Husband! what a heavy fortune + Is fallen upon him! + + _Bew._ Methinks 'tis strange, + That heaven fore-warning great men of their falls, + With such plain tokens, they should not avoid 'em: + For the last night betwixt eleven and twelve, + Two great and hideous blazing stars were seen + To fight a long hour by the clock, the one + Drest like a Duke, the other like a King; + Till at the last the crowned Star o'er-came. + + _Serv._ Why do ye stand so dead, Monsieur _Marine_? + + _Duke._ So _Caesar_ fell, when in the Capitol + They gave his body two and thirty wounds. + Be warned all ye Peers, and by my fall, + Hereafter learn to let your wives rule all. + + _Serv._ Monsieur _Marine_, pray let me speak with you; + Sir, I must wave you to conceal this party, + It stands upon my utter overthrow; + Seem not discontented, nor do not stir afoot, + For if you do, you and your hope-- + I swear you are a lost man if you stir. + And have an eye to _Bewford_, he'll tempt you. + + _Bew._ Come, come, for shame go down; + Were I _Marine_, [by heaven] I would go down: + And being there, I would rattle him such an answer + Should make him smoke. + + _Duke._ Good Monsieur _Bewford_, peace + Leave these rebellious words, + Or by the honors which I once enjoyed, + And yet may swear by, + I'll tell the King of your proceedings; + I am satisfied. + + _Wife._ You talkt of going down when 'twas not fit, + But now let's see your spirit, + A thousand and a thousand will expect it. + + _Duke._ Why wife, are ye mad? + + _Wife._ No, nor drunk, but I'd have you know your own strength. + + _Duke._ You talke like a most foolish woman, wife; + I tell you I will stay, yet I have a + Crotchet troubles me. + + _Long._ More crotchets yet? + + _Duke._ Follow me _Jaques_, I must have thy counsel, + I will return again, stay you there wife. + + _Long._ I fear this loss of honor will give him some few stools. + + _Wif._ No, no, he is resolv'd, he will not + Stir a foot, I'll lay my life. + + _Bew._ I, but he's discontented, how shall we resolve that, + And make him stay with comfort? + + _Wife._ Faith _Bewford_ we must even let nature work, + For he's the sweetest temper'd man for that + As one can wish, for let men but go about to fool him, + And he'll have his finger as deep in't as the best; + But see where he comes frowning, bless us all! + + _Enter Duke._ + + _Duke._ Off with your hats, for here doth come + The high and mighty Duke of _Burgundy_. + What ever you may think, I have thought + And thought, and thought upon't, and I find it plain, + The King cannot take back what he has given, + Unless I forfeit it by course of Law. + Not all the water in the River _Seine_, + Can wash the blood out of these Princely veins. + + _Wife._ God-a-mercy Husband, thou art the best + To work out a thing at a pinch in _France_. + + _Duke._ I will ascend my State again, + Duchess, take your place, + And let our Champion enter. + + _Long._ Has he his Champion? that's excellent. + + _Duke._ And let loud Musick sound before his entrance. + Sound Trumpet. + + _Enter_ Jaques _in Armor_, _one carrying a Scutcheon before + him_, _and a two-handed Sword_. + + _Wife._ How well our Champion doth demean himself, + As if he had been made for such an action? + Methinks his sturdy truncheon he doth weild, + Like _Mars_ approaching to a bloody field. + + _Duke._ I think there's no man so desperate + To dare encounter with our Champion, + But trust me, _Jaques_, thou hast pleas'd us well; + Once more our warlike Musick, then proceed. + + _Enter_ Shattillion. + + _Shat._ What wondrous age is this! what close proceedings! + I hear the clang of Trumpets in this house, + To what intent do not our States-men search? + Oh no, they look not into simple truth; + For I am true, and they regard not me, + A man in Armor too: God save the King, + The world will end, there's nought but treachery. + + _Jaq._ I _Jaques_, servant to the high and mighty _Godfrey_, + Duke of _Burgundy_, do come hither to prove by natural + strength, and activity of my body, without the help of sorcery, + inchantment, or negromancy, that the said _Godfrey_, + late of _Mount Marine_, and now of _Burgundy_, hath perfect + right thereto, notwithstanding the Kings command to the + contrary, and no other person whatsoever: and in token + that I will be ready to make good the same: I throw down + my gage, which is my honor, pronounced the 37 of _Feb. + Stilo novo_, _God save the_ Duke. + + _Shat._ Of all the plots the King hath laid for me + This was the shrewdest, 'tis my life they seek + And they shall have it: if I should refuse + To accept the challenge in the Kings behalf, + They have some cause to take away my life, + And if I do accept it, who can tell, + But I may fall by doubtful chance of War? + 'Twas shrew'd, but I must take the least of evils, + I take thy gauntlet up, thou treacherous man, + That stands in armed Coat against the King. + Whom God preserve, and with my single sword, + Will justifie whatever he commands; + I'll watch him for catching of my words. + + _Duke._ _Jaques_ go on, defend our Princely Title. + + _Shat._ Why shrink'st thou back? thou hast an evil cause; + Come forward man, I have a rock about me, + I fight for my true Liege. + + _Duke._ Go forward _Jaques_. + + _Jaq._ I do beseech your Grace to pardon me, + I will not fight with him, with any else + I'll shew my resolution speedily. + + _Shat._ Come, do thy worst, for the King shall see + All is not true, that is reported of me. + + _Jaq._ I may not fight with him by Law of Arms. + + _Duke._ What? shall my Title fall? wilt thou not fight? + + _Jaq._ Never with him that once hath sav'd my life. + + _Shat._ Dar'st thou not fight? behold then, I do go + Strong with the zeal I bear my Sovereign, + And seize upon that haughty man himself. + Descend the steps (that thou hast thus usurp'd + Against the King and State,) down to the ground, + And if thou do utter but a syllable + To cross the Kings intent, thou art but dead; + There, lye upon the earth, and pine, and dye. + Did ever any man wade through such storms + To save his life, as poor _Shattillion_? + + _Long._ I fear this challenge hath spoil'd all. + + _Duc._ Ne'er fear it, he'll work it out again, servant. + See where _Shattillion's_ Love, poor Lady, comes. + + _Enter Love._ + + _Duke. Jaques._ + + _Jaq._ Lie still, Sir, if you love your life, I'll whistle when he's + gone, + + _Love._ Oh Gentlemen, I charge you by the Love + Which you bear to women, take some pitty + On this distressed man, help to restore + That precious Jewel to him he hath lost. + + _Bew._ Lady, what ever power doth lie in us + By Art, or Prayer, or danger, we are yours. + + _Love._ A strange conceit hath wrought this malady, + Conceits again must bring him to himself, + My strict denial to his Will wrought this: + And if you could but draw his wilder thoughts + To know me, he would sure recover sense. + + _Long._ That charge I'll undertake. + + _Duke._ Look _Jaques_, look, for Gods sake let me rise, + This greatness is a jade, I cannot sit it. + + _Jaq._ His sword is up, and yet he watcheth you. + + _Du._ I'll down again, pray for thy Master, _Jaques_. + + _Shat._ Now the King may see all the suggestions are not true, + He hath receiv'd against my loyalty; + When all men else refuse, I fight his battels, + And thrust my body into dangers mouth; + I am become his Champion, and this sword + Has taught his enemies to know themselves; + Oh that he would no more be jealous of me! + + _Long._ Monsieur _Shattillion_, the King ass[ign]s you, + That for this valiant loyal act of yours, + He hath forgot all jealousies and fears, + And never more will tempt you into danger. + + _Shat._ But how shall I believe this, what new token + Of reconcilement will he shew me? + Let him release my poor Love from her torment, + From her hard fare, and strict imprisonment. + + _Long._ He hath done this to win your after-love, + And see your Lady sent you from the King + By these two Gentlemen: be thankful for her. + + _Shat._ She lives, she lives, I know her by the power + Shoots from her eyes. + + _Love._ Rise dear _Shattillion_. + + _Shat._ I know my duty, + Next unto my King, I am to kneel to you. + + _Love._ I'll have you rise, fetch me a chair, sit down _Shat_. + + _Shat._ I am commanded, and faith tell me Mistriss, + What usage have you had? pray be plain! + + _Love._ Oh my most lov'd _Shattillion_, pain enough, + But now I am free, thanks to my God and King. + + _Long._ His eyes grow very heavy, not a word, + That his weak senses may come sweetly home. + + _Shat._ The King is honourable. + + _Duke._ When do you whistle _Jaques_? + + _Jaq._ By and by. + + _Long._ Come hither Monsieur, canst thou laugh a little? + + _Serv._ Yes Sir. + + _Long._ So thou shalt then. _Bewford_, how dost thou? + + _Bew._ Why well. + + _Long._ I'm glad on't, and how does thy wife? + + _Bew._ Why, you may see her, Sir, she stands behind you. + + _Long._ By the mass she's there indeed, but where's her belly? + + _Bew._ Belly? + + _Long._ Her great belly, man; what hast thou sent thee? + + _Serv._ A Boy, I'll lay my life, it tumbled so. + + _Bew._ Catcht by this light. + + _Long._ I'll be a Gossip _Bewford_. + + _Serv._ And I. + + _Long._ I have an odd Apostle spoon. + + _Bew._ S'foot, catcht. + + _Duc._ Why, what's the matter, Gentlemen? + + _Long._ He's married to your woman. + + _Duc._ And I not know it? + + _Serv._ 'Twas a venial sin. + + _Bew._ Gall, gall, gall. + + _Duc._ Forgive her, Monsieur _Bewford_, 'twas her love. + + _Bew._ You may rise if you please, I must endure it. + + _Long._ See how my great Lord lies upon the ground + And dare not stir yet! + _Jaques_ whistles? + + _Duke._ _Jaques_, _Jaques_, is the Kings Champion gon yet? + + _Jaq._ No, but he's asleep. + + _Duke._ Is he asleep art sure? + + _Jaq._ I am sure he is, I hear him snore. + + _Duke._ Then by your favours Gentlemen I rise, + And know I am a Duke still. + + _Jaq._ And I am his Champion. + + _Duc._ Hold thee there, and all _France_ cannot mend thee. + + _Duke._ I am a Prince as great within my thoughts + As when the whole state did adorn my person; + What trial can be made to try a Prince? + I will [o]ppose this noble corps of mine + To any danger that may end the doubt. + + _Duc._ Great Duke, and Husband, there is but one way + To satisfie the world of our true right, + And it is dangerous. + + _Duke._ What may it be? + Were it to bring the great Turk bound in chains + Through _France_ in triumph: or to couple up + The _Sophie_, and great _Prestor John_ together, + I would attempt it Duchess, tell the course. + + _Duc._ There is a strong opinion through the world, + And no doubt, grounded on experience, + That Lions will not touch a lawful Prince, + If you be confident then of your right, + Amongst the Lions bear your naked body, + And if you come off clear, and never winch, + The world will say you are a perfect Prince. + + _Duke._ I thank you Duchess, for your kind advice, + But now we do not affect those ravenous beasts. + + _Long._ A Lion is a beast to try a King; + But for the trial of such a state like this + _Pliny_ reports a mastive dog will serve. + + _Duke._ We will not deal with dogs at all, but men. + + _Serv._ You shall not need to deal with them at all, + Hark you Sir, the King doth know you are a Duke: + + _Duke._ No, does he? + + _Serv._ Yes, and is content you shall be, but with this caution, + That none know it but your self: + For if ye do, he'll take it away by Act of Parliament. + + _Duke._ Here's my hand, and whilst I live or breath, + No living wight shall know I am a Duke. + + _Serv._ Mark me directly, Sir, your wife may know it. + + _Duke._ May not _Jaques_. + + _Serv._ Yes, he may. + + _Duke._ May not my Countrey Cosin? + + _Serv._ By no means, Sir, if you love your life and state. + + _Duke._ Well then, know all, I am no Duke. + + _Serv._ No, I'll swear it. + + _Long._ See, he wakes. + + _Shat._ Where am I, or where have I been all this while? + Sleep hath not sate so sound upon mine eyes + But I remember well that face; + Oh thou too cruel, leave at length to scorn + Him that but looking on thy beauty, dies, + Either receive me, or put out my eyes. + + _Love._ Dearest _Shattillion_, see upon my knees, + I offer up my love, forget my wrongs. + + _Shat._ Art thou mine own? + + _Love._ By heaven I am. + + _Shat._ Then all the world is mine. + + _Love._ I have stranger things to tell thee, my dearest love. + + _Shat._ Tell nothing, but that thou art mine own: + I do not care to know where I have been, + Or how I have liv'd, or any thing, + But that thou art my own. + + _Bew._ Well wife, though 'twere a trick that made us wed, + We'll make our selves merry soon in bed. + + _Duke._ Know all, I am no Duke. + + _Wife._ What [saye]? + + _Duke._ _Jaques?_ + + _Jaq._ Sir. + + _Duke._ I am a Duke. + + _Both._ Are ye? + + _Duke._ Yes faith, yes faith. + But it must only run among our selves, + And _Jaques_, thou shalt be my Secretary still. + + _Wife._ Kind Gentlemen, lead in _Shattillion_, + For he must needs be weak and sickly yet. + Now all my labours have a perfect end, as I could wish, + Let all young sprightly wives that have + Dull foolish coxcombs to their Husbands, + Learn by me their duties, what to do, + Which is, to make 'em fools, and please 'em too. [_Exeunt._ + + + + + EPILOGUE. + + + _The Monuments of virtue, and desert, + Appear more goodly, when the gloss of Art + Is eaten off by time, than when at first + They were set up, not censur'd at the worst. + We'ave done our best, for your contents to fit, + With new pains, this old monument of wit._ + + + + + THE + CORONATION. + A Comedy. + + + The Persons represented in the Play. + + _Philocles._ + _Lisander._ + _Cassander._ + _Lisimachus._ + _Antigonu._ + _Arcadius._ + _Macarius._ + _Seleucus._ + _Queen._ + _Charilla._ + _Polidora._ + _Nestorius._ + _Eubulus._ + _A Bishop._ + _Polianus._ + _Sophia._ + _Demetrius._ + _Gentlemen and Gentlewomen._ + _Servants and Attendants._ + + + + + PROLOGUE. + + + _Since 'tis become the Title of our Play, + A woman once in a [Coronation may] + With pardon, speak the_ Prologue, _give as free + A welcome to the Theatre, as he + That with a little Beard, a long black Cloak, + With a starch'd face, and supple leg hath spoke + Before the Plays the twelvemonth, let me then + Present a welcome to these Gentlemen, + If you be kind, and noble, you will not + Think the worse of me for my Petticote: + But to the Play, the Poet bad me tell + His fears first in the Title, lest i[t] swell + Some thoughts with expectation of a strain, + That but once could be seen in a Kings Reign, + This Coronation, he hopes you may + See often, while the genius of his Play, + Doth prophesie, the Conduits may run Wine, + When the days triumph's ended, and divine + Brisk Nectar swell his Temple[s] to a rage, + With something of more price t' invest the Stage. + There rests but to prepare you, that although + It be a Coronation, there doth flow + No undermirth, such as doth lard the Scene + For course delight the language here is clean. + And confident, our Poet bade me say, + He'll bate you but the folly of a Play. + For which, although dull souls his Pen despise, + Who thinks it yet too early to be wise. + The nobler will thank his Muse, at least + Excuse him, cause his thought aim'd at the best, + But we conclude not, it does rest in you. + To censure Poet, Play, and Prologue too. + But what have I omitted? is there not + A blush upon my cheeks that I forgot + The Ladies, and a Femal Prologue too? + Your pardon noble Gentlewomen, you + Were first within my thoughts, I know you sit + As free, and high Commissioners of wit, + Have clear, and active souls, nay, though the men + Were lost in your eyes, they'll be found agen, + You are the bright intelligences move, + And make a harmony this sphere of Love, + Be you propitious then, our Poet says, + Our wreath from you, is worth their grove of Bayes:_ + + + + + _Actus Primus. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter_ Philocles _and_ Lisander. + + _Phi._ Make way for my Lord Protector. + + _Lisan._ Your graces servants. + + _Enter_ Cassander, _and_ Lisimachus. + + _Cas._ I like your diligent waiting, where's _Lisimachus_? + + _Lisi._ I wait upon you, Sir. + + _Cas._ The Queen looks pleasant + This morning, does she not? + + _Lis._ I ever found + Her gracious smiles on me. + + _Cas._ She does consult + Her safety in't, for I must tell thee boy, + But in the assurance of her love to thee, + I should advance thy hopes another way, + And use the power I have in _Epire_, to + Settle our own, and uncontrouled greatness; + But since she carries her self so fairly, + I am content to expect, and by her marriage + Secure thy fortune, that's all my ambition + Now, be still careful in thy applications + To her, I must attend other affairs, + Return, and use what Art thou canst to lay + More charms of love upon her. + + _Lis._ I presume + She always speaks the language of her heart, + And I can be ambitious for no more + Happiness on earth, than she encourages + Me to expect. + + _Cas._ It was an act becoming + The wisdom of her Father to engage + A tye between our Families, and she + Hath play'd her best discretion to allow it; + But we lose time in conference, wait on her, + And be what thou wert born for, King of _Epire_, + I must away. [_Exit._ + + _Lis._ Success ever attend you. + Is not the Queen yet coming forth? + + _Lisa._ Your servant, + You may command our duties, + This is the Court Star, _Philocles_. + + _Phi._ The Star that we must sail by. + + _Lisa._ All must borrow + A light from him, the young Queen directs all + Her favours that way. + + _Phi._ He's a noble Gentleman, + And worthy of his expectations: + Too good to be the son of such a Father. + + _Lisa._ Peace, remember he is Lord Protector. + + _Phil._ We have more need of Heavens Protection + I' th' mean time, I wonder the old King + Did in his life, design him for the office. + + _Lisa._ He might expect his faith, I have heard when + The King, who was no _Epirote_, advanc'd + His claim, _Cassander_, our Protector now, + Young then, oppos'd him toughly with his faction, + But forc'd to yield, had fair conditions, + And was declar'd by the whole State, next heir; + If the King wanted issue, our hopes only + Thriv'd in this daughter. + + _Phi._ Whom but for her smiles + And hope of marriage with _Lisimachus_, + His Father, by some cunning, had remov'd + E'r this. + + _Lisa._ Take heed, the Arras may have ears + I should not weep much if his grace would hence + Remove to Heaven. + + _Phi._ I prethee what should he do there? + + _Lisa._ Some Offices will fall. + + _Phi._ And the Skie too, e'r I get one stair higher + While he's in place. + + _Enter_ Antigonus. + + _Ant._ _Lisander_, _Philocles_, + How looks the day upon us? where's the Queen? + + _Phi._ In her bed-chamber. + + _Ant._ Who was with her? + + _Lisa._ None but the young Lord _Lisimachus_. + + _Ant._ 'Tis no treason + If a man wish himself a Courtier + Of such a possibility: he has + The mounting fate. + + _Phi._ I would his Father were + Mounted to th' gallows. + + _Ant._ He has a path fair enough, + If he survive by title of his Father. + + _Lisa._ The Queen will hasten his ascent. + + _Phi._ Would I were Queen. + + _Ant._ Thou wou'dst become rarely the petticoat, + What wou'dst thou do? + + _Phi._ Why, I wou'd marry + My Gentleman usher, and trust all the strength + And burden of my State upon his legs, + Rather than be call'd wife by any son + Of such a Father. + + _Lisa._ Come, let's leave this subject, + We may find more secure discourse; when saw + You young _Arcadius_, Lord _Macarius's_ Nephew? + + _Ant._ There's a spark, a youth moulded for a Favourite, + The Queen might do him honor. + + _Phi._ Favourite, 'tis too cheap a name, there were a match + Now for her Virgin blood. + + _Lisa._ Must every man + That has a handsome face or leg, feed such + Ambition: I confess I honor him, + He has a nimble soul, and gives great hope + To be no woman-hater, dances handsomly, + Can court a Lady powerfully, but more goes + To th' making of a Prince. He's here + And's Uncle. + + _Enter_ Arcadius, Macarius, Seleucus. + + _Sel._ Save you Gentlemen, who can direct me + To find my Lord Protector? + + _Lisa._ He was here + Within this half hour, young _Lisimachus_ + His Son is with the Queen. + + _Sel._ There let him compliment, + I have other business, ha, _Arcadius_! [_Exit._ + + _Phi._ Observ'd you, with what eyes _Arcadius_ + And he saluted, their two families + Will hardly reconcile. + + _Ant._ _Seleucus_ carries + Himself too roughly; with what pride and scorn + He past by 'em. + + _Lisa._ Th'other with less shew + Of anger, carries pride enough in's soul, + I wish 'em all at peace, _Macarius_ looks + Are without civil war, a good old man, + The old King lov'd him well, _Seleucus_ Father + Was as dear to him, and maintain'd the character + Of an honest Lord through _Epire_: that two men + So lov'd of others, should be so unwelcome + To one another. + + _Arc._ The Queen was not wont to send for me. + + _Mac._ The reason's to her self, + It will become your duty to attend her. + + _Arc._ Save you Gentlemen, what novelty + Does the Court breathe to day? + + _Lisa._ None Sir, the news + That took the last impression is, that you + Purpose to leave the Kingdom, and those men, + That honor you, take no delight to hear it. + + _Arc._ I have ambition to see the difference + Of Courts, and this may spare; the delights + At home do surfet, and the Mistriss, whom + We all do serve, is fixt upon one object, + Her beams are too much pointed, but no Countrey + Shall make me lose your memories. + + _Enter Queen_, Lisimachus, Macarius, Charilla. + + _Qu._ _Arcadius._ + + _Mac._ Your Lordship honor'd me, + I have no blessing in his absence. + + _Lis._ 'Tis done like a pious Uncle. + + _Qu._ We must not + Give any licence. + + _Arc._ If your Majesty + Would please. + + _Qu._ We are not pleas'd, it had become your duty, + To have first acquainted us, e'r you declar'd + Your resolution publick, is our Court + Not worth your stay? + + _Arc._ I humbly beg your pardon. + + _Qu._ Where's _Lysimachus_? + + _Lis._ Your humble servant, Madam. + + _Qu._ We shall find + Employment at home for you, do not lose us. + + _Arc._ Madam, I then write my self blest on earth + When I may do you service. + + _Qu._ We would be private, _Macarius_. + + _Mac._ Madam, you have blest me, + Nothing but your command could interpose to + Stay him. + + _Qu._ _Lisimachus_, + You must not leave us. + + _Lisa._ Nothing but _Lisimachus_? has she not + Ta'en a philter? + + _Qu._ Nay, pray be cover'd, Ceremony from you, + Must be excus'd. + + _Lisi._ It will become my duty. + + _Qu._ Not your love? + I know you would not have me look upon + Your person as a Courtier, not as Favorite; + That Title were too narrow to express + How we esteem you. + + _Lis._ The least of all + These names from you, Madam, is grace enough. + + _Qu._ Yet here you wou'd not rest? + + _Lis._ Not if you please: + To say there is a happiness beyond, + And teach my ambition how to make it mine, + Although the honors you already have + Let fall upon your servant, exceed all + My merit; I have a heart is studious + To reach it with desert, and make i[f] possible + Your favor's mine by justice, with your pardon. + + _Qu._ We are confident this needs no pardon, Sir, + But a reward to cherish your opinion, + And that you may keep warm your passion, + Know we resolve for marriage, and if + I had another gift, beside my self, + Greater, in that you should discern, how much + My heart is fixt. + + _Lis._ Let me digest my blessing. + + _Qu._ But I cannot resolve when this shall be. + + _Lis._ How Madam? do not make me dream of Heaven, + And wake me into misery, if your purpose + Be, to immortalize your humble servant, + Your power on earth's divine, Princes are here + The copies of Eternity, and create, + When they but will our happiness. + + _Qu._ I shall + Believe you mock me in this argument, + I have no power. + + _Lis._ How, no power? + + _Qu._ Not as a Queen. + + _Lis._ I understand you not. + + _Qu._ I must obey, your Father's my Protector. + + _Lis._ How? + + _Qu._ When I am absolute, _Lisimachus_, + Our power and Titles meet, before, we are but + A shadow, and to give you that were nothing. + + _Lis._ Excellent Queen, + My love took no original from State, + Or the desire of other greatness, + Above what my birth may challenge modestly, + I love your virtues; mercenary souls + Are taken with advancement, you've an Empire + Within you, better than the worlds, to that + Looks my ambition. + + _Qu._ T'other is not, Sir, + To be despis'd, Cosmography allows + _Epire_, a place i' th' Map, and know till I + Possess what I was born to, and alone + Do grasp the Kingdoms Scepter, I account + My self divided, he that marries me + Shall take an [a]bsolute Queen to his warm bosom, + My temples yet are naked, until then + Our Loves can be but compliments, and wishes, + Yet very hearty ones. + + _Lis._ I apprehend. + + _Qu._ Your Father. + + _Enter_ Cassander _and_ Seleucus. + + _Cas._ Madam, a Gentleman has an humble suit. + + _Qu._ 'Tis in your power to grant, you are Protector, + I am not yet a Queen. + + _Cas._ How's this? + + _Lis._ I shall expound her meaning. + + _Qu._ Why kneel you, Sir? + + _Sel._ Madam, to reconcile two families + That may unite, both Counsels and their blood + To serve your Crown. + + _Qu._ _Macarius_, and _Eubulus_ + That beare inveterate malice to each other. + It grew, as I have heard, upon the question + Which some of either family had made + Which of their Fathers was the best Commander: + If we believe our stories, they have both + Deserved well of our state, and yet this quarrel + Has cost too many lives, a severe faction. + + _Sel._ But I'll propound a way to plant a quiet + And peace in both our houses, which are torn + With their dissentions, and lose the glory + Of their great names, my blood speaks my relation + To _Eubulus_, and I wish my veins were emptied + To appease their war. + + _Qu._ Thou hast a noble soul, + This is a charity above thy youth, + And it flows bravely from thee, name the way. + + _Sel._ In such a desperate cause, a little stream + Of blood might purge the foulness of their hearts + If you'll prevent a deluge. + + _Qu._ Be particular. + + _Sel._ Let but your Majesty consent that two + May with their personal valour, undertake + The honor of their family, and determine + Their difference. + + _Qu._ This rather will inlarge + Their hate, and be a means to call more blood + Into the stream. + + _Sel._ Not if both families + Agree, and swear-- + + _Qu._ And who shall be the Champions? + + _Sel._ I beg the honor, for _Eubulus_ cause + To be ingag'd, if any for _Macarius_, + Worthy to wager heart with mine, accept it, + I am confident, _Arcadius_, + For honor would direct me to his sword, + Will not deny, to stake against my life + His own, if you vouchsafe us priviledge. + + _Qu._ You are the expectation, and top boughs + Of both your houses, it would seem injustice, + To allow a civil war to cut you off, + And your selves the instruments, besides + You appear a soldier; _Arcadius_ + Hath no acquaintance yet with rugged war, + More fit to drill a Lady, than expose + His body to such dangers: a small wound + I'th' head, may spoil the method of his hair, + Whose curiosity exacts more time, + Than his devotion, and who knows but he + May lose his ribond by it in his lock, + Dear as his Saint, with whom he would exchange + His head, for her gay colours; then his band + May [b]e disorder'd, and transform'd from Lace + To Cutwork, his rich cloaths be discomplexioned + With bloud, beside the infashionable slashes: + And at the next Festival take Physick, + Or put on black, and mourn for his slain breeches: + His hands cas'd up in gloves all night, and sweet + _Pomatum_: the next day may be endanger'd + To blisters with a sword, how can he stand + Upon his guard, who hath Fidlers in his head, + To which, his feet must ever be a dancing? + Beside a falsify may spoil his cringe, + Or making of a leg, in which consists + Much of his Court-perfection. + + _Sel._ Is this Character + Bestow'd on him? + + _Qu._ It something may concern the Gentleman, + Whom if you please to challenge + To Dance, play on the Lute, or Sing. + + _Sel._ Some [catch]? + + _Qu._ He shall not want those will maintain him + For any sum. + + _Sel._ You are my Sovereign, + I dare not think, yet I must speak somewhat, + I shall burst else, I have no skill in Jiggs, + Nor Tumbling. + + _Qu._ How Sir? + + _Sel._ Nor was I born a Minstrel, and in this you have + So infinitely disgrac'd _Arcadius_. + But that I have heard another Character, + And with your royal Licence do believe it, + I should not think him worth my killing. + + _Qu._ Your killing? + + _Sel._ Does she not jeer me; + I shall talk treason presently, I find it + At my tongues end already, this is an + Affront, I'll leave her. + + _Qu._ Come back, do you know _Arcadius_? + + _Sel._ I ha' chang'd but little breath with him; our persons + Admit no familiarity; we were + Born to live both at distance, yet I ha' seen him + Fight, and fight bravely. + + _Qu._ When the spirit of Wine + Made his brain valiant, he fought bravely. + + _Sel._ Although he be my enemy, should any + Of the gay flies that buzze about the Court, + Sit to catch trouts i'th' summer, tell me so, + I durst in any presence but your own. + + _Qu._ What? + + _Sel._ Tell him he were not honest. + + _Qu._ I see _Sele[u]cus_, thou art resolute, + And I but wrong'd _Arcadius_, your first + Request is granted, you shall fight, and he + That conquers be rewarded, to confirm + First place and honor to his Family: + Is it not this you plead for? + + _Sel._ You are gracious. + + _Qu._ _Lisimachus._ + + _Lis._ Madam. + + _Cas._ She has granted then? + + _Sel._ With much ado. + + _Cas._ I wish thy sword may open + His wanton veins, _Macarius_ is too popular, + And has taught him to insinuate. + + _Qu._ It shall + But haste the confirmation of our loves, + And ripen the delights of marriage, _Seleucus_. [_Exit cum_ Sel. + + _Lis._ As I guest, + It cannot be too soon. + + _Cas._ To morrow then we crown her, and invest + My Son with Majesty, 'tis to my wishes, + Beget a race of Princes, my _Lisimachus_. + + _Lis._ First, let us marry, Sir. + + _Cas._ Thy brow was made + To wear a golden circle, I'm transported, + Thou shalt rule her, and I will govern thee. + + _Lis._ Although you be my Father, that will not + Concern my obedience, as I take it. + + _Enter_ Philocles, Lisander, _and_ Antigonus. + + Gentlemen, + Prepare your selves for a solemnity + Will turn the Kingdom into triumph, _Epire_ + Look fresh to morrow, 'twill become your duties + In all your glory, to attend the Queen + At her Coronation, she is pleased to make + The next day happy in our Calendar, + My office doth expire, and my old blood + Renews with thought on't. + + _Phi._ How's this? + + _Ant._ Crown'd to morrow. + + _Lisa._ And he so joyful to resign his Regency, + There's some trick in't, I do not like these hasty + Proceedings, and whirls of state, they have commonl[y] + As strange and violent effects; well, heaven save the Queen. + + _Phi._ Heaven save the Queen, say I, and send her a sprightly + Bed-fellow, for the Protector, let him pray for + Himself, he is like to have no benefit of my devotion. + + _Cas._ But this doth quicken my old heart, _Lisimachus_, + There is not any step into her throne, + But is the same degree of thy own state; + Come Gentlemen. + + _Lisa._ We attend your grace. + + _Cas._ _Lisimachus._ + + _Lisi._ What heretofore could happen to mankind + Was with much pain to climb to heaven, but in + _Sophias_ marriage of all Queens the best, + Heaven will come down to earth, to make me blest. [_Exe._ + + + + + _Actus Secundus. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter_ Arcadius _and_ Polydora. + + _Pol._ Indeed you shall not go. + + _Arc._ Whither? + + _Pol._ To travel, + I know you see me, but to take your leave, + But I must never yield to such an absence. + + _Arc._ I prethee leave thy fears, I am commanded + To th' contrary, I wonot leave thee now. + + _Pol._ Commanded? by whom? + + _Arc._ The Queen. + + _Pol._ I am very glad, for trust me, I could think + Of thy departure with no comfort, thou + Art all the joy I have, half of my soul, + But I must thank the Queen now for thy company, + I prethee, what could make thee so desirous + To be abroad? + + _Arc._ Only to get an appetite + To thee _Polidora_. + + _Pol._ Then you must provoke it. + + _Arc._ Nay, prethee do not so mistake thy servant. + + _Pol._ Perhaps you surfeit with my Love. + + _Arc._ Thy love? + + _Pol._ Although I have no beauty to compare + With the best faces, I have a heart above + All competition. + + _Arc._ Thou art jealous now, + Come let me take the kiss I gave thee last, + I am so confident of thee, no Lip + Has ravisht it from thine; I prethee come + To Court. + + _Pol._ For what? + + _Arc._ There is the throne for beauty. + + _Pol._ 'Tis safer dwelling here. + + _Arc._ There's none will hurt, + Or dare but think an ill to _Polydora_, + The greatest will be proud to honor thee. + Thy luster wants the admiration here: + There thou wot shine indeed, and strike a reverence + Into the gazer. + + _Pol._ You can flatter too. + + _Arc._ No praise of thee can be thought so, thy virtue + Will deserve all, I must confess, we Courtiers + Do oftentimes commend to shew our Art, + There is necessity sometimes to say, + This Madam breaths _Arabian_ Gumms, + Amber and Cassia; though while we are praising, + We wish we had no nostrils to take in + Th' offensive steam of her corrupted Lungs. + Nay, some will swear they love their Mistriss, + Would hazard lives and fortunes, to preserve + One of her hairs brighter than _Berinices_; + Or young _Apollo's_, and yet after this, + A favour from another toy would tempt him + To laugh, while the officious hangman whips + Her head off. + + _Pol._ Fine men. + + _Arc._ I am none of these, + Nay, there are women _Polidora_, too + That can do pretty well at flatteries; + Make men believe they dote, will languish for 'em, + Can kiss a Jewel out of one, and dally + A carcanet of Diamonds from another, + Weep into th' bosome, of a third, and make + Him drop as many Pearls; they count it nothing + To talk a reasonable heir within ten days + Out of his whole Estate, and make him mad + He has no more wealth to consume. + + _Pol._ You'll teach me + To think I may be flattered in your promises, + Since you live where this Art is most profest. + + _Arc._ I dare not be so wicked _Polidora_, + The Infant errors of the Court I may + Be guilty of, but never to abuse + So rare a goodness, nor indeed did ever + Converse with any of those shames of Court, + To practise for base ends; be confident + My heart is full of thine, and I so deeply + Carry the figure of my _Polydora_, + It is not in the power of time or distance + To cancel it, by all that's blest I love thee: + Love thee above all women, dare invoke + A curse when I forsake thee. + + _Pol._ Let it be some + Gentle one. + + _Arc._ Teach me an oath I prethee, + One strong enough to bind, if thou dost find + Any suspition of my faith, or else + Direct me in some horrid imprecation: + When I forsake thee for the love of other + Women, may heaven reward my apostacy + To blast my greatest happiness on earth, + And make all joys abortive. + + _Pol._ Revoke these hasty syllables, they carry + Too great a penalty for breach of Love + To me, I am not worth thy suffering, + You do not know, what beauty may invite + Your change, what happiness may tempt your eye + And heart together. + + _Arc._ Should all the graces of your sex conspire + In one, and she should court [me], with a Dowry, + Able to buy a Kingdom, when I give + My heart from _Polidora_. + + _Pol._ I suspect not, + And to requite thy constancy, I swear. + + _Arc._ 'Twere sin to let thee waste thy breath + I have assurance of thy noble thoughts. + + _Enter a Servant._ + + _Serv._ My Lord, your Uncle hath been every where + I' th' Court inquiring for you, his looks speak + Some earnest cause. + + _Arc._ I am more acquainted with + Thy virtue, than to imagine thou wilt not + Excuse me now, one kiss dismisses him + Whose heart shall wait on _Polidora_ prethee + Let me not wish for thy return too often, + My Father. + + _Enter_ Nestorius, _and a servant_. + + _Nes._ I met _Arcadius_ in strange haste, he told me + He had been with thee. + + _Pol._ Some affair too soon + Ravish'd him hence, his Uncle sent for him + You came now from Court: how looks the Queen + This golden morning? + + _Nes._ Like a Bride, her soul + Is all on mirth, her eyes have quick'ning fires, + Able to strike a spring into the earth, + In winter. + + _Pol._ Then _Lisimachus_ can have + No frost in's blood, that lives so near her beams. + + _Nes._ His politick Father the Protector smiles too, + Resolve to see the ceremony of the Queen + 'Twill be a day of state. + + _Pol._ I am not well. + + _Nes._ How! not well? retire then, I must return + My attendance is expected, _Polidora_, + Be careful of thy health. + + _Pol._ It will concern me. [_Exit._ + + _Enter_ Arcadius, _and_ Macarius. + + _Arc._ You amaze me, Sir. + + _Mac._ Dear Nephew, if thou respect thy safety + My honor, or my age, remove thy self, + Thy life's in danger. + + _Arc._ Mine? who's my enemy? + + _Mac._ Take horse, and instantly forsake the City, + Or else within some unsuspected dwelling, + Obscure thy self, stay not to know the reason. + + _Arc._ Sir, I beseech your pardon, which i' th' number + Of my offences unto any, should + Provoke this dishonourable flight? + + _Mac._ I would, when I petition'd for thy stay, + I had pleaded for thy banishment, thou knowst not + What threatens thee. + + _Arc._ I would desire to know it, + I am in no conspiracy of treason, + Have ravish'd no mans Mistriss, not so much + As given the lye to any, what should mean + Your strange and violent fears, I will [n]ot stir + Until you make me sensible I have lost + My innocence. + + _Mac._ I must not live to see + Thy body full of wounds, it were less sin + To rip thy Fathers Marble, and fetch from + The reverend vault, his ashes, and disperse them + By some rude winds, where none should ever find + The sacred dust: it was his Legacy, + The breath he mingled with his prayers to Heaven + I [sh]ould preserve _Arcadius_, whose fate + He prophesied in death, would need protection, + Thou wot disturb his ghost, and call it to + Affright my dreams, if thou refuse to obey me. + + _Arc._ You more inflame me, to enquire the cause + Of your distraction, and you'll arm me better + Than any coward flight by acquainting me + Whose malice aims to kill me, good Sir tell me. + + _Mac._ Then prayers and tears assist me. + + _Arc._ Sir. + + _Mac._ _Arcadius_, + Thou art a rash young man, witness the spirit + Of him that trusted me so much, I bleed, + Till I prevent this mischief. [_Exit._ + + _Enter_ Philocles, Lisander. + + _Arc._ Ha, keep off. + + _Phi._ What mean you, Sir? + + _Lis._ We are your friends. + + _Arc._ I know your faces, but + Am not secure, I would not be betraid. + + _Lis._ You wrong our hearts, who truly honor you. + + _Arc._ They say I must be kill'd. + + _Phi._ By whom? + + _Arc._ I know not, nor wou'd I part with life so tamely. + + _Phi._ We dare engage ours in your quarrel, hide + Your sword, it may beget suspition, + It's enough to question you. + + _Arc._ I am confident; + Pray pardon me, come, I despise all danger: + Yet a dear friend of mine, my Uncle told me + He would not see my body full of wounds. + + _Lis._ Your Uncle, this is strange. + + _Arc._ Yes, my honest Uncle, + If my unlucky Stars have pointed me + So dire a fate. + + _Phi._ There is some strange mistake in't. + + _Enter_ Antigonus. + + _Ant._ _Arcadius_, the Queen would speak with you, + You must make haste. + + _Ar[c]._ Though to my death, I flie + Upon her summons I give up my breath + Then willingly, if she command it from me. + + _Phi._ This does a little trouble me. + + _Lis._ I know not + What to imagine, something is the ground + Of this perplexity, but I hope there is not + Any such danger as he apprehends. + + _Enter_ Queen, Lisimachus, Macarius, Eubulus, Seleucus, + Arcadius, _Ladies, Attendants and Gent._ + + _Qu._ We have already granted to _Seleucus_ + And they shall try their valour, if _Arcadius_ + Have spirit in him to accept the challenge, + Our Royal word is past. + + _Phi._ This is strange. + + _Eub._ Madam, my son knew not what he ask'd, + And you were cruel to consent so soon. + + _Mac._ Wherein have I offended, to be rob'd + At once, of all the wealth I have, _Arcadius_ + Is part of me. + + _Eub._ _Seleucus's_ life and mine + Are twisted on one thred, both stand or fall + Together, hath the service for my Countrey + Deserved but this reward, to be sent weeping + To my eternal home? Was't not enough + When I was young, to lose my bloud in wars, + But the poor remnant that is scarcely warm + And faintly creeping through my wither'd veins + Must be let out to make you sport. + + _Mac._ How can + We, that shall this morn see the sacred oyl, + Fall on your Virgin tresses, hope for any + Protection hereafter, when this day + You sacrifice the blood of them that pray for you. + _Arcadius_, I prethee speak thy self, + It is for thee I plead. + + _Eub._ _Seleucus_, kneel + And say thou hast repented thy rash suit; + If e'er I see thee fight, I be thus wounded, + How will the least drop forc'd from thy veins, + Afflict my heart. + + _Mac._ Why, that's good; + _Arcadius_, speak to her; hear him Madam. + + _Arc._ If you call back this honor you have done me + I shall repent I live, doe not perswade me: + _Seleucus_, thou art a noble enemy, + And I will love thy soul, though I despair + Our bodies friendly conversation: + I would we were to tugg upon some cliffe, + Or like two prodigies i'th' air, our conflict + Might generally be gaz'd at, and our bloud + Appease our grandsires ashes. + + _Mac._ I am undone. + + _Sel._ Madam, my father says I have offended, + If so, I beg your pardon, but beseech you + For your own glory, call not back your word. + + _Eub._ They are both mad. + + _Qu._ No more, we have resolv'd, + And since their courage is so nobly flam'd, + This morning we'll behold the Champions + Within the List, be not afraid, their strife + Will stretch so far as death, so soon as we + Are Crown'd, prepare your selves, _Seleucus_. [_Kisses her hand._ + + _Sel._ I have receiv'd another life in this high favour, + And may lose what nature gave me. + + _Qu._ _Arcadius_, to encourage thy young valour, + We give thee our Fathers sword. + Command it from our Armory; _Lisimachus_, + To our Coronation. [_Exeunt._ + + _Sel._ I'll forfeit + My head for a rebellion, than suffer it. [_Exit._ + + _Arc._ I am circled with confusions, I'll do somewhat + My brains and friends assist me. [_Exit._ + + _Phi._ But do you think they'll fight indeed? + + _Lis._ Perhaps + Her Majesty will see a bout or two. + And yet 'tis wondrous strange, such spectacles + Are rare i'th' Court, and they were to skirmish naked + Before her, then there might be some excuse. + There is gimcracks in't, the Queen is wise + Above her years. + + _Phi._ _Macarius_ is perplex'd. + + _Enter_ Eubulus. + + _Lis._ I cannot blame him, but my Lord _Eubulus_ + Returns, they are both troubled, 'las good men, + But our duties are expected, we forget. [_Ex._ Phil. Lis. + + _Eub._ I must resolve, and yet things are not ripe, + My brains upon the torture. + + _Mac._ This may quit + The hazard of his person, whose least drop + Of blood, is worth more than our families. + My Lord _Eubulus_, I have thought a way + To stay the young mens desperate proceedings, + It is our cause they fight, let us beseech + The Queen, to grant us two the priviledge + Of Duel, rather than expose their lives + To eithers fury; it were pity they + Should run upon so black a destiny, + We are both old, and may be spar'd, a pair + Of fruitless trees, mossie, and wither'd trunks, + That fill up too much room. + + _Eub._ Most willingly, + And I will praise her charity to allow it; + I have not yet forg[o]t to use a sword, + Let's lose no time, by this act, she will licence + Our souls to leave our bodies but a day, + Perhaps an hour the sooner; they may live + To do her better service, and be friends + When we are dead, and yet I have no hope + This will be granted, curse upon our faction. + + _Mac._ If she deny us-- + + _Eub._ What? + + _Mac._ I wou'd do somewhat-- + + _Eub._ There's something o' th' suddain struck upon + My imagination that may secure us. + + _Mac._ Name it, if no dishonor wait upon't + To preserve them, I'll accept any danger. + + _Eub._ There is no other way, and yet my heart + Would be excus'd, but 'tis to save his life. + + _Mac._ Speak it _Eubulus_. + + _Eub._ In your ear I shall, + It sha'not make a noise if you refuse it. + + _Mac._ Hum? though it stir my bloud, I'll meet _Arcadius_, + If this preserve thee not, I must unseal + Another mistery. [_Exit._ + + _Enter Queen_, Lisimachus, Cassander, Charilla, Lisander, + Philocles, Antigonus. + + _Qu._ We owe to all your loves, and will deserve + At least by our endeavours, that none may + This day repent their prayers, my Lord Protector. + + _Cas._ Madam, I have no + Such Title now, and am blest to lose + That name so happily: I was but trusted + With a glorious burden. + + _Qu._ You have prov'd + Your self our faithful Counsellor, and must still + Protect our growing state: a Kingdoms Scepter + Weighs down a womans arm, this Crown sits heavy + Upon my brow already, and we know + There's something more than mettal in this wreath, + Of shining glory, but your faith, and counsel, + That are familiar with mysteries, + And depths of state, have power to make us fit + For such a bearing, in which both you shall + Doe loyal service, and reward your Duties. + + _Cas._ Heaven preserve your Highness. + + _Qu._ But yet my Lords and Gentlemen, let none + Mistake me, that because I urge your wisdoms, + I shall grow careless, and impose on you + The managing of this great Province, no, + We will be active too, and as we are + In dignity above your persons, so, + The greatest portion of the difficulties + We call to us, you in your several places + Relieving us with your experience, + Observing in your best directions + All modesty, and distance; for although + We are but young, no action shall forfeit + Our royal priviledge, or encourage any + Too unreverent boldness; as it will become + Our honor to consult, e'r we determine + Of the most necessary things of state, + So we are sensible of a check, + But in a brow, that saucily controuls + Our action, presuming on our years + As few, or frailty of our sex; that head + Is not secure, that dares our power or justice. + + _Phi._ She has a brave spirit, look how the Protector + Grows pale already. + + _Qu._ But I speak to you + Are perfect in obedience, and may spare + This Theme, yet 'twas no immat[eriall] + Part of our character, since I desire + All should take notice, I have studied + The knowledge of my self, by which I shall + Better distinguish of your worth and persons + In your relations to us. + + _Lis._ This language + Is but a threatening to some body. + + _Qu._ But we miss some, that use not to absent + Their duties from us, where's _Macarius_? + + _Cas._ Retir'd to grieve, your Majesty hath given + Consent, _Arcadius_ should enter the List + To day with young _Seleucus._ + + _Qu._ We purpose + + _Enter Gentleman._ + + They shall proceed, what's he? + + _Phil._ A Gentleman belonging to _Seleucus_ that gives notice + He is prepar'd, and waits your royal pleasure. + + _Qu._ He was compos'd for action, give notice + To _Arcadius_, and admit the challenger: + Let other Princes boast their gaudy tilting, + And mockery of battles, but our triumph + Is celebrated with true noble valour. + + _Enter_ Seleucus, Arcadius, _at several doors, their Pages + before them, bearing their Targets_. + + Two young men spirited enough to have + Two kingdoms staked upon their swords, _Lisimachus_ + Do not they excellently become their arms? + 'Twere pity but they should do something more + Then wave their plumes. [_A shout within._ + What noise is that? + + _Enter_ Macarius, _and_ Eubulus. + + _Mac._ The peoples joy to know us reconcil'd, + Is added to the jubile of the day, + We have no more a faction but one heart, + Peace flow in every bosom. + + _Eub._ Throw away + These instruments of death, and like two friends + Embrace by our example. + + _Qu._ This unfein'd? + + _Mac._ By our duties to your self, dear Madam + Command them not advance, our houses from + This minute are incorporated; happy day + Our eyes at which before revenge look'd forth, + May clear suspition, oh my _Arcadius_! + + _Eub._ We have found a nearer way to friendship, Madam, + Than by exposing them to fight for us. + + _Qu._ If this be faithful, our desires are blest. + We had no thought to waste, but reconcile + Your bloud this way, and we did prophesie + This happy chance, spring into eithers bosom, + _Arcadius_ and _Seleucus_, what can now + Be added to this days felicity? + Yes, there is something, is there not my Lord? + While we are Virgin Queen. + + _Cas._ Ha, that string + Doth promise Musick. + + _Qu._ I am yet my Lords + Your single joy, and when I look upon, + What I have took, to manage the great care + Of this most flourishing kingdom, I incline + To think I shall do justice to my self, + If I choose one, whose strength and virtue may + Assist my undertaking, think you Lords, + A Husband would not help? + + _Lis._ No question, Madam, + And he that [you purpose to make] so blest + Must needs be worthy of our humblest duty, + It is the general vote. + + _Qu._ We will not then + Trouble Ambassadors to treat with any + Princes abroad, within our own dominion, + Fruitful in honor, we shall make our choice; + And that we may not keep you over long + In th[e] imagination, from this circle, we + Have purpose to elect; one, whom I shall + Salute a King and Husband. + + _Lisa._ Now my Lord _Lisimachus_. + + _Que._ Nor shall we in this action be accus'd + Of rashness, since the man we shall declare + Deserving our affection, hath been early + In our opinion, which had reason first + To guide it, and his known nobility + Long marry'd to our thoughts, will justifie + Our fair election. + + _Phi._ _Lisimachus_ blushes. + + _Cas._ Direct our duties, Madam, to pray for him. + + _Que._ _Arcadius_, you see from whence we come, + Pray lead us back, you may ascend. [_She comes from the State._ + + _Cas._ How's this? o're-reach'd? + + _Arc._ Madam, be charitable to your humblest creature, + Doe not reward the heart, that falls in duty + Beneath your feet, with making me the burden + Of the Court-mirth, a mockery for Pages, + 'Twere Treason in me but to think you meane thus. + + _Que._ _Arcadius_, you must refuse my love, + Or shame this Kingdom. + + _Phi._ Is the wind in that corner? + + _Cas._ I shall run mad _Lisimachus_. + + _Lisi._ Sir, contain your self. + + _Sel._ Is this to be believ'd? + + _Mac._ What dream is this? + + _Phi._ He kisses her, now by this day I am glad on't. + + _Lisa._ Mark the Protector. + + _Ant._ Let him fret his heart-strings. + + _Que._ Is the day cloudy on the sudden? + + _Arc._ Gentlemen, + It was not my ambition, I durst never + Aspire so high in thought, but since her Majesty + Hath pleas'd to call me to this honor, I + Will study to be worthy of her grace, + By whom I live. + + _Que._ The Church to morrow shall + Confirme our marriage, noble _Lisimachus_; + We'll find out other wayes to recompence + Your love to us, set forward, come _Arcadius_. + + _Mac._ It must be so, and yet let me consider. + + _Cas._ He insults already, policy assist me, + To break his neck. + + _Lisi._ Who would trust Woman? + Lost in a pair of minutes, lost, how bright + A morning rose, but now, [and now] 'tis night? [_Exeunt._ + + + + + _Actus Tertius. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter_ Polidora, _and a Servant_. + + _Pol._ Oh where shall Virgins look for faith hereafter? + If he prove false, after so many vowes? + And yet if I consider, he was tempted + Above the strength of a young Lover, two + Such glorious courting his acceptance, were + Able to make disloyalty no sin, + At least not seem a fault, a Lady first, + Whose very looks would thaw a man more frozen + Than the _Alps_, quicken a soul more dead than Winter, + Add to her beauty and perfection, + That she's a Queen, and brings with her a Kingdom + Able to make a great mind forfeit Heaven. + What could the frailty of _Arcadius_ + Suggest, to unspirit him so much, as not + To fly to her embraces, you were present + When she declar'd her self. + + _Ser._ Yes Madam. + + _Pol._ Tell me, + Did not he make a pause, when the fair Queen + A full temptation stood him? + + _Ser._ Very little + My judgment could distinguish, she did no sooner + Propound, but he accepted. + + _Pol._ That was ill, + He might with honor stand one or two minutes, + Me thinks it should have startled him a little, + To have rememberd me, I have deserv'd + At least a cold thought, well, pray give it him. + + _Ser._ I shall. + + _Pol._ When? + + _Ser._ Instantly. + + _Pol._ Not so, + But take a time when his joy swels him most, + When his delights are high and ravishing, + When you perceive his Soul dance in his eyes, + When she that must be his hath drest her beauty, + With all her pride, and sends a thousand _Cupids_ + To call him to the tasting of her lip; + Then give him this, and tell him, while I live, + I'll pray for him. + + _Ser._ I shall. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Cassander, _and_ Lisimachus. + + _Cas._ There is no way but death. + + _Lisi._ That's black, and horrid, + Consider, Sir, it was her sin, not his; + I cannot accuse him, what man could carry + A heart so frozen, not to melt at such + A glorious flame? Who could not fly to such + A happiness? + + _Cas._ Have you ambition + To be a tame fool? see so vast an injury + And not revenge it? make me not suspect + Thy Mother for this sufferance, my Son. + + _Lis._ Pray hear me, Sir. + + _Cas._ Hear a patient gull, + A property, thou hast no blood of mine, + If this affront provoke thee not, how canst + Be charitable to thy self, and let him live + To glory in thy shame? Nor is he innocent; + He had before crept slily into her bosome, + And practised thy dishonor. + + _Lisi._ You begin to stir me, Sir. + + _Cas._ How else could she be guilty + Of such contempt of thee? and in the eye + Of all the Kingdom, they conspir'd this stain, + When they had cunning meetings, shall thy love + And blooming hopes be scatter'd thus, and _Lisimachus_ + Stand idle gazer? + + _Lisi._ What, Sir, will his death + Advantage us, if she be false to me? + So irreligious, and to touch her person-- + Pause, we may be observed. + + _Enter_ Philocles, _and_ Lisander. + + _Lisa._ 'Tis the Protector + And his son. + + _Phi._ Alas, poor Gentleman, I pitty + His neglect, but am not sorry for his Father. + ['Tis] a strange turne. + + _Lisa._ The whirligigs of Women. + + _Phi._ Your Graces servant. + + _Cas._ I am yours Gentlemen, + And should be happy to deserve your loves. + + _Phi._ Now he can flatter. + + _Lisa._ In't Sir, to inlarge your sufferings, I have + A heart doth wish + The Q[u]een had known better to reward + Your love and merit. + + [_Lisi._] If you would express + Your love to me, pray do not mention it, + I must obey my fate. + + _Phi._ She will be married + To t'other Gentleman for certain then? + + _Cas._ I hope you'll wish 'em joy. + + _Phi._ Indeed I will, Sir. + + _Lisa._ Your Graces servant. [_Exit._ + + _Cas._ We are grown + Ridiculous, the pastime of the Court: + Here comes another. + + _Enter_ Seleucus. + + _Sel._ Where's your Son, my Lord? + + _Cas._ Like a neglected servant of his Mistress. + + _Sel._ I would ask him a question. + + _Cas._ What? + + _Sel._ Whether the Queen, + As 'tis reported, lov'd him, he can tell + Whether she promis'd what they talke of, marriage. + + _Cas._ I can resolve you that, Sir. + + _Sel._ She did promise? + + _Cas._ Yes. + + _Sel._ Then shee's a Woman, and your Son; + + _Cas._ What? + + _Sel._ Not worthy his blood, and expectation, + If he be calme. + + _Cas._ There's no opposing destiny. + + _Sel._ I would cut the Throat. + + _Cas._ Whose throat? + + _Sel._ The destinies, that's all, your pardon, Sir, + I am _Seleucus_ still, a poor shadow + Oth' World, a walking picture, it concerns + Not me, I am forgotten by my stars. + + _Cas._ The Queen, with more discretion, might ha chosen Thee. + + _Sel._ Whom? + + _Cas._ Thee, _Seleucus_. + + _Sel._ Me? I cannot dance, and frisk with due activity, + My body is lead, I have too much phlegme, what should + I do with a Kingdome? no, _Arcadius_ + Becomes the cushion, and can please, yet setting + Aside the trick that Ladies of Blood look at, + Another Man might make a shift to weare + Rich Clothes, sit in the chair of state, and nod, + Dare venture on discourse, that does not trench + On compliment, and think the study of Armes + And Arts, more commendable in a Gentleman, + Than any Galliard. + + _Cas._ _Arcadius_, + And you, were reconcil'd. + + _Sel._ We? yes, oh yes, + But 'tis not manners now to say we are friends, + At our equality there had been reason, + But now subjection is the word. + + _Cas._ They are not + Yet married. + + _Sel._ I'll make no Oath upon't, + My Lord _Lisimachus_, + A word, you'll not be angry if I love you, + May not a Batchellor be made a Cuckold? + + _Lisi._ How, Sir? + + _Cas._ _Lisimachus_, this Gentleman + Is worth our embrace, hee's spirited, + And may be useful. + + _Sel._ Hark you, can you tell + Where's the best Dancing-master? and you mean + To rise at Court, practise to caper, farewel + The noble science, that makes work for cutlers, + It will be out of fashion to weare swords, + Masques, and devices welcome, I salute you, + Is it not pitty any division + Should be heard out of Musick? Oh 'twill be + An excellent age of crotchets; and of Canters. + Buy Captains, that like fools will spend your blood + Out of your Country, you will be of less + Use than your feathers, if you return unman'd + You shall be beaten soon to a new march, + When you shall think it a discretion + To sell your glorious buffes to buy fine pumps, + And pantables, this is I hope no treason. + + _Enter_ Arcadius _leading the_ Queen, Charia, Eubulus, Lisander, + Philocles, Polidora, _servant_. + + _Cas._ Wot stay _Lisimachus_? + + _Lisi._ Yes, Sir, + And shew a patience above her injury. + + _Arc._ This honor is too much, Madam, assume + Your place, and let _Arcadius_ waite still: + 'Tis happiness enough to be your servant. + + _Cas._ Now he dissembles. + + _Que._ Sir, you must sit. + + _Arc._ I am obedient. + + _Que._ This is not Musick + Sprightly enough, it feeds the soul with melancholy. + How sayes _Arcadius_? + + _Arc._ Give me leave to think + There is no harmony but in your voice, + And not an accent of your heavenly tongue, + But strikes me into rapture, I incline + To think, the tale of _Orpheus_ no fable, + 'Tis possible he might inchant the Rocks, + And charme the Forrest, soften hell, hell it self, + With his commanding Lute, it is no miracle + To what you work, whose very breath conveyes + The hearer into Heaven, how at your lips, + Day-winds gather Perfumes, proudly glide away, + To disperse sweetness round about the world. + + _Sel._ Fine stuff. + + _Que._ You cannot flatter. + + _Arc._ Not, if I should say, + Nature had plac'd you here the creatures wonder, + And her own spring, from which all excellence + On Earth's deriv'd, and copyed forth, and when + The character of fair, and good in others + Is quite worne out, and lost, looking on you + It is supply'd, and you alone made mortal + To feed, and keep alive all beauty. + + _Sel._ Ha, ha, Can you indure it Gentlemen? + + _Lisa._ What do you meane? + + _Sel._ Nay, ask him what he meanes, mine is a down + Right laugh. + + _Que._ Well, Sir, proceed. + + _Arc._ At such bright eyes the stars do light themselves, + At such a forehead Swans renew their white, + From such a lip the morning gathers blushes. + + _Sel._ The morning is more modest than thy praises, + What a thing does he make her? + + _Arc._ And when you flie to Heaven and leave this world + No longer maintenance of goodness from you: + Then Poetry shall lose all use with us, + And be no more, since nothing in your absence + Is left, that can be worthy of a Verse. + + _Sel._ Ha, ha. + + _Que._ Whose that? + + _Sel._ 'Twas I, Madam. + + _Arc._ _Seleucus?_ + + _Cas._ Ha? + + _Sel._ Yes, Sir, 'twas I that laugh'd. + + _Arc._ At what? + + _Sel._ At nothing. + + _Lisa._ Contain your self, _Seleucus_. + + _Eub._ Are you mad? + + _Que._ Have you ambition to be punish'd, Sir? + + _Sel._ I need not, 'twas punishment + Enough to hear him make an Idol of you, he left + Out the commendation of your patience, I was a little + Mov'd in my nature, to hear his Rodomontados, and + Make a monster of his Mistress, which I pitty'd first, + But seeing him proceed, I guest he brought you + Mirth with his inventions, and so made bold to laugh at it. + + _Que._ You are sawcy, + We'll place you where you sha'not be so merry, + Take him away. + + _Lisa._ Submit your self. + + _Arc._ Let me plead for his pardon. + + _Sel._ I wo'd not owe my life so poorly, beg thy own, + When you are King you cannot bribe your destiny. + + _Eub._ Good Madam hear me, I fear he is distracted, + Brave boy, thou should'st be Master of a soul + Like his: thy honors more concern'd. + + _Sel._ 'Tis charity, + A way wo' mee, 'boy Madam? + + _Cas._ He has a daring spirit. [_Ex._ Sel. Eub. Cas. + + _Arc._ These, and a thousand more affronts I must + Expect: your favors draw them all upon me; + In my first state I had no enemies, + I was secure, while I did grow beneath + This expectation, humble valleys thrive with + Their bosomes full of flowers, when the Hills melt + With lightning, and rough anger of the clouds, + Let me retire. + + _Que._ And can _Arcadius_ + At such a breath be mov'd, I had opinion + Your courage durst have stood a tempest for + Our love, can you for this incline to leave + What other Princes should in vain have sued for? + How many Lovers are in _Epire_ now + Would throw themselves on danger, not expect + One enemy, but empty their own veins, + And think the loss of all their blood rewarded, + To have one smile of us when they are dying? + And shall this murmur shake you? + + _Arc._ Not dear Madam, + My life is such a poor despised thing, + In value your least graces, that + To lose it were to make my self a victory, + It is not for my self, I fear: the envy + Of others cannot fasten wound in me + Greater, than that your goodness should be check'd + So daringly. + + _Que._ Let not those thoughts afflict thee, + While we have power to correct the offences, + _Arcadius_ be mine, this shall confirm it. + + _Arc._ I shall forget, + And lose my way to heaven, that touch had been + Enough to have restor'd me, and infus'd + A spirit of a more celestial nature, + After the tedious absence of my soul, + Oh bless me not too much, one smile a day + Would stretch my life to mortality; + Poets that wrap divinity in tales, + Look here, and give your coppies forth of angels, + What blessing can remain? + + _Que._ Our Marriage. + + _Arc._ Place then some horrors in the way + For me, not you, to pass, the journeys end + Holds out such glories to me, I should think + Hell but a poor degree of suffering for it, + What's that, some petition? a Letter to me. + _You had a Polidora, ha, that's all._ + Ith' minu[t]e when my vessels new lanch'd forth, + With all my pride, and silken wings about me + I strike upon a Rock: What power can save me? + You had a _Polidora_; there's a name + Kill'd with grief, I can so soon forget her. + + _Ser._ She did impose on me this service, Sir, + And while she lives she sayes, shee'll pray for you. + + _Arc._ She lives, + That's well, and yet 'twere better, for my fame, + And honor, she were dead; What fate hath plac'd me + Upon this fearful precipice? + + _Ser._ He's troubled. + + _Arc._ I must resolve, my faith is violated + Already, yet poor loving _Polidora_ + Will pray for me, she sayes, to think she can + Render me hated to my self, and every + Thought's a tormentor, let me then be just. + + _Que._ _Arcadius._ + + _Arc._ That voice prevailes agen, oh _Polidora_, + Thou must forgive _Arcadius_, I dare not + Turn rebel to a Princess, I shall love + Thy vertue, but a Kingdom has a charme + To excuse our f[r]ailty, dearest Madam. + + _Que._ Now set forward. + + _Arc._ To perfect all our joyes. + + _Enter_ Macarius, _and a_ Bishop, Casander. + + _Mac._ I'll fright their glories. + + _Cas._ By what means? + + _Mac._ Observe. + + _Arc._ Our good Unckle, welcome. + + _Que._ My Lord _Macarius_, we did want your person, + There's something in our joyes wherein you share. + + _Mac._ This you intend your highness wedding day. + + _Que._ We are going. + + _Mac._ Save you labor + I have brought a Priest to meet you. + + _Arc._ Reverend Father. + + _Que._ Meet us, Why? + + _Mac._ To tell you, that you must not Marry. + + _Cas._ Didst thou hear that, _Lisimachus_? + + _Lisi._ And wonder what will follow. + + _Que._ We must not marry. + + _Bish._ Madam, 'tis a rule + First made in heaven, and I must needs declare + You and _Arcadius_ must tie no knot + Of Man and Wife. + + _Arc._ Is my Unckle mad? + + _Que._ Joy has transported him, + Or age has made him dote, _Macarius_ + Provoke us not too much, you will presume + Above our mercy. + + _Mac._ I'll discharge my duty, + Could your frown strike me dead, my Lord, you know + Whose character this is. + + _Cas._ It is _Theodosius_, + Your graces Father. + + _Bis._ I am subscribed a witness. + + _Phi._ Upon my life 'tis his. + + _Mac._ Fear not, I'll cross this Match. + + _Cas._ I'll bless thee for't. + + _Arc._ Unckle, d'ee know what you do, or what we are + Going to finish? you will not break the neck of my glorious + Fortune, now my foots ith' stirrup, and mounting, + Throw me over the saddle? I hope you'll let one + Be a King, Madam, 'tis as you say, + My Unckle is something craz'd, there's a worm + In's brain, but I beseech you pardon him, he is + Not the first of your counsel, that has talk'd + Idly, d'ee hear my Lord Bishop, I hope + You have more Religion than to joyn with him + To undoe me. + + _Bis._ Not I Sir, but I am commanded by oath, + And conscience to speak truth. + + _Arc._ If your truth should do me any harm, I shall never + Be in charity with a Croziers staffe, look too't. + + _Que._ My youngest Brother. + + _Cas._ Worse and worse, my brains. [_Exit._ + + _Mac._ Deliver['d] to me an Infant with this writing, + To which this reverend Father is a witness. + + _Lisa._ This he whom we so long thought dead, a childe? + + _Que._ But what should make my Father to trust him + To your concealment? give abroad his death, and bury + An empty coffin? + + _Mac._ A jealousie he had + Upon _Cassander_, whose ambitious brain + He fear'd would make no conscience to depose + His son, to make _Lisimachus_ King of _Epire_. + + _Que._ He made no scruple to expose me then + To any danger? + + _Mac._ He secur'd you, Madam, + By an early Engagement of your affection + To _Lisimachus_, exempt this testimony, + Had he been _Arcadius_, and my Nephew, + I needed not obtrude him on the state, + Your love and marriage had made him King + Without my trouble, and sav'd that ambition, + There was necessity to open now + His birth, and title. + + _Phi._ _Demetrius_ alive. + + _Arc._ What riddles are these, Whom do they talk of? + + _Omn._ Congratulate your return to life, and honor, + And as becomes us, with one voice salute you, + _Demetrius_ King of _Epire_. + + _Mac._ I am no Uncle, Sir, this is your Sister, + I should have suffer'd incest to have kept you + Longer ith' dark: love, and be happy both, + My trust is now discharg'd. + + _Lisa._ And we rejoyce. + + _Arc._ But do not mock me, Gentlemen, + May I be bold upon your words to say + I am Prince _Theodosius_ Son? + + _Mac._ The King. + + _Arc._ You'll justifie it? + Sister, I am very glad to see you. + + _Sop._ I am to find a brother, and resign my glory, + My triumph is my shame. [_Exit._ + + _Enter_ Cassander. + + _Cas._ Thine ear _Lisimachus_. + + _Arc._ Gentlemen I owe + Unto your loves, as large acknowledgment + As to my birth, for this great honor, and + My study shall be equal to be thought + Worthy of both. + + _Cas._ Thou art turn'd Marble. + + _Lisi._ There will be the less charge for my Monument. + + _Cas._ This must not be, sit fast young King. [_Exit._ + + _Lisi._ Your sister, Sir, is gone. + + _Arc._ My sister should have been my Bride, that name + Puts me in mind of _Polidora_, ha? + _Lisander, Philocles_, Gentlemen, + If you will have me think your hearts allow me + _Theodosius_ son, oh quickly snatch some wings, + Express it in your haste to _Polidora_, + Tell her what title is new dropt from heaven + To make her rich; onely created for me: + Give her the ceremony of my Queen, + With all the state that may become our Bride, + Attend her to this throne; Are you not there? + Yet stay, 'tis too much pride to send for her, + Wee'll go our self, no honor is enough + For _Polidora_, to redeem our fault, + Salute her gently from me, and, upon + Your knee, present her with this Diadem, + 'Tis our first gift, tell her _Demetrius_ follows + To be her guest, and give himself a servant + To her chast bosome, bid her stretch her heart + To meet me, I am lost in joy and wonder. [_Exeunt Omnes._ + + + + + _Actus Quartus. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter_ Cassander, Eubulus, Soldier. + + _Cas._ Where's the Captain of the Castle? + + _Sol._ Hee'll attend your honors presently. + + _Cas._ Give him knowledge we expect him. + + _Sol._ I shall, my Lord. [_Exit._ + + _Cas._ He is my creature, fear not, + And shall run any course that we propound. + + _Eub._ My Lord, I like the substance of your plot, + 'Tis promising, but matters of this consequence + Are not so easily perfect, and it does + Concern our heads to build upon secure + Principles, though _Seleucus_, I confess, + Carry a high, and daring spirit in him, + 'Tis hard to thrust upon the state new setled + Any impostor, and we know not yet + Whether hee'll undertake to play the Prince; + Or if he should accept it, with what cunning + He can behave himself. + + _Cas._ My Lord, affairs + Of such a glorious nature, are half finish'd, + When they begin with confidence. + + _Eub._ Admit + He want no art, [n]or courage, it must rest + Upon the people to receive his title, + And with what danger their uncertain breath + May flatter ours, _Demetrius_ scarcely warm + In the Kings seat, I may suspect. + + _Cas._ That reason + Makes for our part, for if it be so probable, + That young _Demetrius_ should be living, Why + May not we work them to believe, _Leonatus_, + The eldest son was, by some trick, preserv'd, + And now would claim his own: there were two sons, + Who in their Fathers life we supposed dead, + May not we find a circumstance to make + This seem as clear as t'other, let the vulgar + Be once possest, wee'll carry _Epire_ from + _Demetrius_, and the World. + + _Eub._ I could be pleas'd + To see my Son a King. + + _Enter_ Poleanus. + + The Captain's here. + + _Pol._ I waite your Lordships pleasure. + + _Cas._ We come to visit your late prisoner: + I will not doubt, but you intreat him fairly, + He will deserve it for himself, and you + Be fortunate in any occasion, + To have exprest your service. + + _Pol._ Sir, the knowledge + Of my honorable Lord his Father, will + Instruct me to behave my self with all + Respects becoming me, to such a son. + + _Cas._ These things will least + Oblige you, but how bears he his restraint? + + _Pol._ As one whose soul's above it. + + _Eub._ Patiently? + + _Pol._ With contempt rather of the great command + Which made him prisoner, he will talke sometimes + So strangely to himself. + + _Eub._ Hee's here. + + _Enter_ Seleucus. + + _Sel._ Why was I born to be a subject? 'tis + Soon answer'd, sure my Father was no Prince, + That's all: the same ingredients use to make + A Man, as active, though not royal blood + Went to my composition, and I + Was gotten with as good a will perhaps, + And my birth cost my Mother as much sorrow, + As I had been born an Emperor. + + _Cas._ While I look + Upon him, something in his face presents + A King indeed. + + _Eub._ He does resemble much + _Theodosius_ too. + + _Cas._ Whose son we would pretend him, + This will advance our plot. + + _Sel._ 'Tis but a name, + And mere opinion, that prefers one man + Above another, I'll imagine then + I am a Prince, or some brave thing on Earth, + And see what follows: but it must not be, + My single voice will carry it, the name + Of King must be attended with a troop + Of acclamations, on whose ayrie wings + He mounts, and once exalted, threatens Heaven, + And all the stars: how to acquire this noise, + And be the thing I talke of, men have rise[n] + From a more cheap nobility to Empires, + From dark originals, and sordid blood, + Nay some that had no fathers, sons of the earth, + And flying people, have aspir'd to Kingdoms, + Made nations tremble, and have practis'd frowns + To awe the world, their memory is glorious, + And I would hug them in their shades, but what's + All this to me, that am I know not what, + And less in expectation? + + _Pol._ Are you serious? + + _Cas._ Will you assist, and run a fate with us. + + _Pol._ Command my life, I owe it to your favor. + + _Sel._ _Arcadius_ was once as far from being + As I, and had we not so cunningly + Been reconcil'd, or one, or both had gone + To seek our fortunes in another world; + What's the device now? If my death be next, + The summons shall not make me once look pale. + + _Cas._ Chide your too vain suspitions, we bring + A life, and liberty, with what else can make + Thy ambition happy, th'ast a glorious flame, + We come to advance it. + + _Sel._ How? + + _Cas._ Have but a will, + And be what thy own thoughts dare prompt thee to, + A King. + + _Sel._ You do not mock me Gentlemen? + You are my Father, Sir. + + _Eub._ This minute shall + Declare it, my _Seleucus_, our hearts swell'd + With joy, with duty rather, oh my boy! + + _Sel._ What's the mistery? + + _Pol._ You must be a King. + + _Cas._ _Seleucus_, stay, thou art too incredulous, + Let not our faith, and study to exalt thee, + Be so rewarded. + + _Eub._ I pronounce thee King, + Unless thy spirit be turn'd coward, and + Thou faint to accept it. + + _Sel._ King of what? + + _Cas._ Of _Epire_. + + _Sel._ Although the Queen, since she sent me hither, + Were gone to Heaven I know not how, + That title could devolve to me. + + _Cas._ We have + No Queen, since he that should have married her, + Is prov'd her youngest brother, and now King + In his own title. + + _Sel._ Thank you Gentlemen, + There's hope for me. + + _Cas._ Why, you dare fight with him + And need be, for the Kingdom. + + _Sel._ With _Arcadius_? + If you'll make stakes, my life against his crown, + I'll fight with him, and you, and your fine Son, + And all the Courtiers one after another. + + _Cas._ 'Two'not come to that. + + _Sel._ I am of your Lordships mind, so fare you well. + + _Cas._ Yet stay and hear-- + + _Sel._ What? that you have betray'd me: + Do, tell your King, my life is grown a burden, + And I'll confess, and make your souls look pale, + To see how nimble mine shall leap this battlement + Of flesh, and dying, laugh at your poor malice. + + _Omnes._ No more, long live _Leonatus_ King of _Epire_. + + _Sel._ _Leonatus_, Who's that? + + _Cas._ Be bold, and be a King, our brains have been + Working to raise you to this height, here are + None but friends, dare you but call your self + _Leonatus_, and but justifie with confidence + What we'll proclaime you, if we do not bring + The Crown to your head, we [w]ill forfeit ours. + + _Eub._ The state is in distraction, _Arcadius_ + Is prov'd a King, there was an elder brother, + If you dare but pronounce, you are the same, + Forget you are my son. + + _Pol._ These are no trifles, Sir, all is plotted, + To assure your greatness; if you will be wise, + And take the faire occasion that's presented. + + _Sel._ _Arcadius_, you say, is lawful King, + And now to depose him, you would make me + An elder brother, is't not so? + + _Cas._ Most right. + + _Sel._ Nay, right or wrong, if this be your true meaning. + + _Omnes._ Upon our lives. + + _Sel._ I'll venture mine, but with your pardon, + Whose brain was this? from whom took this plot life? + + _Eub._ My Lord _Cassander_. + + _Sel._ And you are of his mind? and you? and think + This may be done? + + _Eub._ The destinies shall not cross us, if you have + Spirit to undertake it. + + _Sel._ Undertake it? + I am not us'd to compliment, I'll owe + My life to you, my fortunes to your Lordship, + Compose me as you please, and when y'ave made + Me what you promise, you shall both divide + Me equally: one word, my Lord, I had rather + Live in the prison still, than be a propency + To advance his politick ends. + + _Eub._ Have no suspition. + + _Cas._ So, so, I see _Demetrius_ heels already + Trip'd up, and I'll dispatch him out oth' way, + Which gone, I can depose this at my leasure, + Being an Impostor, then my Son stands fair, + And may piece with the Princess, we lose time, + What think you, if we first surprize the Court? + While you command the Castle, we shall curbe + All opposition. + + _Eub._ Let's proclaim him first, + I have some faction, the people love me, + They gain'd to us, wee'll fall upon the Court. + + _Cas._ Unless _Demetrius_ yield himself, he bleeds. + + _Sel._ Who dares call treason sin, when it succeeds? [_Exeunt Omnes._ + + _Enter_ Sophia, _and_ Charilla. + + _Cha._ Madam, you are too passionate, and lose + The greatness of your soul, with the expence + Of too much grief, for that which providence + Hath eas'd you of, the burden of a state + Above your tender bearing. + + _Sop._ Thour't a fool, + And canst not reach the spirit of a Lady, + Born great as I was, and made onely less + By a too cruel destiny, above + Our tender bearing: What goes richer to + The composition of Man, than ours? + Our soul as free, and spatious; our heart's + As great, our will as large, each thought as active, + And in this onely Man more proud than we, + That would have us less capable of Empire, + But search the stories, and the name of Queen + Shines bright with glory, and some precedents + Above Mans imitation. + + _Cha._ I grant it + For the honor of our sex, nor have you, Madam, + By any weakness, forfeited command, + He that succeeds, in justice, was before you, + And you have gain'd more, in a royal brother, + Than you could lose by your resign of _Epire_. + + _Sop._ This I allow _Charilla,_ I ha done; + 'Tis not the thought I am depos'd afflicts me, + At the same time I feel a joy to know + My Brother living: no, there is another + Wound in me above cure. + + _Cha_. Virtue forbid. + + _Sop_. Canst find me out a Surgeon for that? + + _Cha_. For what? + + _Sop_. My bleeding fame. + + _Cha_. Oh do not injure + Your own clear innocence. + + _Sop_. Do not flatter me, + I have been guilty of an act, will make + All love in women question'd, is not that + A blot upon a Virgins name? my birth + Cannot extenuate my shame, I am + Become the stain of _Epire_. + + _Cha._ 'Tis but + Your own opinion, Madam, which presents + Something to fright your self, which cannot + Be in the same shape so horrid to our sense. + + _Sop_. Thou wod'st, but canst not appear ignorant: + Did not the Court, nay, the whole Kingdom, take + Notice, I lov'd _Lisimachus?_ + + _Cha._ True, Madam. + + _Sop._ No, I was false, + Though counsel'd by my Father to affect him, + I had my politick ends upon _Cassander_, + To be absolute Queen, flattering his son with hopes + Of love and marriage, when that very day + I blush to think I wrong'd _Lisimachus_, + That noble Gentleman, but heaven punish'd me; + For though to know _Demetrius_ was a blessing, + Yet who will not impute it my dishonor. + + _Cha._ Madam, you yet may recompence _Lisimachus_, + If you affect him now, you were not false + To him, whom then you lov'd not, if you can + Find any gentle passion in your soul + To entertain his thought, no doubt his heart, + Though sad retains a noble will to meet it, + His love was firm to you, and cannot be + Unrooted with one storme. + + _Sop._ He will not sure + Trust any language from her tongue that mock'd him, + Although my soul doth weep for't, and is punish'd + To love him above the world. + + _Enter_ Lisimachus. + + _Cha._ Hee's here + As fate would have him reconcil'd, be free, + And speak your thoughts. + + _Lisi._ If, Madam, I appear + Too bold, your charity will sign my pardon: + I heard you were not well, which made me haste + To pay the duty of an humble visit. + + _Sop._ You do not mock me, Sir. + + _Lisi._ I am confident + You think me not so lost to manners, in + The knowledge of your person, to bring with me + Such rudeness, I have nothing to present, + But a heart full of wishes for your health, + And what else may be added to your happiness. + + _Sop._ I thought you had been sensible. + + _Lisi._ How Madam? + + _Sop._ A man of understanding, can you spend + One prayer for me, remembring the dishonor + I have done _Lisimachus_? + + _Lisi._ Nothing can deface that part of my + Religion in me, not to pray for you. + + _Sop._ It is not then impossible you may + Forgive me too, indeed I have a soul + Is full of penitence, and something else, + If blushing would allow to give't a name. + + _Lisi._ What Madam? + + _Sop._ Love, a love that should redeem + My past offence, and make me white again. + + _Lisi_. I hope no sadness can possess your thoughts + For me, I am not worthy of this sorrow, + But if you mean it any satisfaction + For what your will hath made me suffer, 'tis + But a strange overflow of Charity, + To keep me still alive, be your self Madam, + And let no cause of mine, be guilty of + This rape upon your eyes, my name's not worth + The least of all your tears. + + _Sop._ You think 'em counterfeit. + + _Lisi._ Although I may + Suspect a Womans smile hereafter, yet + I would believe their wet eyes, and if this + Be what you promise, for my sake, I have + But one reply. + + _Sop._ I waite it. + + _Lisi._ I have now + Another Mistress. + + _Sop._ Stay. + + _Lisi._ To whom I have made + Since your revolt from me, a new chaste vow, + Which not the second malice of my fate + Shall violate, and she deserves it, Madam, + Even for that wherein you are excellent, + Beauty, in which she shines equal to you + Her vertue, if she but maintain what now + She is Mistress of, beyond all competition, + So rich it cannot know to be improv'd, + At least in my esteem, I may offend, + But truth shall justifie, I have not flatter'd her, + I beg your pardon, and to leave, my duty + Upon your hand, all that is good flow in you. [_Exit._ + + _Sop._ Did he not say, _Charilla_, that he had + Another Mistress? + + _Cha._ Such a sound, methought, + Came from him. + + _Sop._ Let's remove, here's too much ayre, + The sad note multiplies. + + _Cha._ Take courage, Madam, + And my advice, he has another Mistress, + If he have twenty, be you wise, and cross him + With entertaining twice as many servants, + And when he sees your humor he'll return. + And sue for any Livery, grieve for this. + + _Sop._ It must be she, 'tis _Polidora_ has + Taken his heart, she live my rival, + How does the thought inflame me! + + _Cha. Polidora?_ + + _Sop._ And yet she does but justly, and he too; + I would have rob'd her of _Arcadius_ heart, + And they will both have this revenge on me, + But something will rebel. [_Exit._ + + _Enter_ Demetrius, Philocles, Lisander. + + _De._ The house is desolate, none comes forth to meet us, + Shee's slow to entertain us: _Philocles,_ + I prethee tell me, did she weare no cloud + Upon her brow, was't freely that she said + We should be welcome. + + _Phi._ To my apprehension, + Yet 'tis my wonder she appears not. + + _Lisa._ She, nor any other, + Sure there's some conceit + To excuse it. + + _Dem._ Stay, Who's this? observe what follows? + + _Phi._ Fortune? some maske to entertain you, Sir. + + _Enter Fortune crown'd, attended with Youth, Health, and + Pleasure._ + + _For._ Not yet? What silence doth inhabit here? + No preparation to bid Fortune welcome! + Fortune, the genious of the World, have we + Descended from our pride, and state to come, + So far attended with our darlings, Youth, + Pleasure, and Health, to be neglected thus? + Sure this is not the place? call hither Fame. + + _Enter_ Fame. + + _Fa._ What would great Fortune? + + _For._ Know, + Who dwells here. + + _Fa._ Once more I report great Queen, + This is the house of Love. + + _For._ It cannot be, + This place has too much shade, and looks as if + It had been quite forgotten of the Spring, + And Sun-beames Love, affect society, + And heat, here all is cold as the hairs of Winter, + No harmony, to catch the busie eare + Of passengers, no object of delight, + To take the wandring eyes, no song, no grone + Of Lovers, no complaint of Wil[l]ow garlands, + Love has a Beacon upon his palace top, + Of flaming hearts, to call the weary pilgrime + To rest, and dwell with him, I see no fire + To threaten, or to warme: Can Love dwell here? + + _Fa._ If there be noble love upon the World, + Trust Fame, and find it here. + + _For._ Make good your boast, + And bring him to us. + + _De._ What does mean all this? + + _Lisa._ I told you, Sir, we should have some device. + + _Enter Love._ + + There's _Cupid_ now, that little Gentleman, + Has troubled every Masque at Court this seven year. + + _Dem._ No more. + + _Love._ Welcome to Love, how much you honor me! + It had become me, that, upon your summons, + I should have waited upon mighty Fortune, + But since you have vouchsafed to visit me; + All the delights Love can invent, shall flow + To entertain you, Musick through the ayre + Shoot your inticing harmony. + + _For._ We came to dance and revel with you. + + _Lov._ I am poor + In my ambition, and want thought to reach + How much you honor Love. [_Dance._ + + _Enter_ Honor. + + _Hon._ What intrusion's this? + Whom do you seek here. + + _Lov._ 'Tis honor. + + _For._ He my servant. + + _Lov._ Fortune is come to visit us. + + _Hon._ And has + Corrupted Love: Is this thy faith to her, + On whom we both waite, to betray her thus + To Fortunes triumph? take her giddy wheel, + And be no more companion to honor; + I blush to know thee, Who'll believe there can + Be truth in Love hereafter? + + _Lov._ I have found + My eyes, and see my shame, and with it, this + Proud sorceress, from whom, and all her charmes, + I flye agen to Honor, be my guard, + Without thee I am lost, and cannot boast, + The merit of a name. + + _For._ Despis'd? I shall + Remember this affront. + + _Dem._ What Moral's this? [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Honor _with the Crown upon a mourning Cushion_. + + What melancholly object strikes a sudden + Chillness through all my veines; and turns me Ice? + It is the same I sent, the very same, + As the first pledge of her insuing greatness: + Why in this mourning livery, if she live + To whom I sent it? ha, What shape of sorrow? + + _Enter_ Polidora _in mourning_. + + It is not _Polidora_, she was faire + Enough, and wanted not the setting off + With such a black: if thou beest _Polidora_, + Why mournes my love? it neither does become + Thy fortune, nor my joyes. + + _Pol._ But it becomes + My griefs, this habit fits a funeral, + And it were sin, my Lord, not to lament + A friend new dead. + + _Dem._ And I yet living? can + A sorrow enter but upon thy Garment, + Or discomplexion thy attire, whilst I + Enjoy a life for thee? Who can deserve, + Weigh'd with thy living comforts, but a piece + Of all this Ceremony? give him a name. + + _Pol._ He was _Arcadius_. + + _Dem._ _Arcadius?_ + + _Pol._ A Gentleman that lov'd me dearly once, + And does compel these poor, and fruitless drops, + Which willingly would fall upon his hearse, + To imbalme him twice. + + _Dem._ And are you sure hee's dead? + + _Pol._ As sure as you'r living, Sir, and yet + I did not close his eyes, but he is dead, + And I shall never see the same _Arcadius_: + He was a Man so rich in all that's good, + At least I thought him so, so perfect in + The rules of honor, whom alone to imitate + Were glory in a Prince, Nature her self, + Till his creation, wrought imperfectly, + As she had made but tryal of the rest, + To mould him excellent. + + _Dem._ And is he dead? + Come, shame him not with praises, recollect + Thy scatter'd hopes, and let me tell my best, + And dearest _Polidora_, that he lives, + Still lives to honor thee. + + _Pol._ Lives, Where? + + _Dem._ Look here. + Am not I worth your knowledge? + + _Pol._ And my duty, + You are _Demetrius_, King of _Epire_, Sir. + I could not easily mistake him so, + To whom I gave my heart. + + _Dem._ Mine is not chang'd, + But still hath fed upon thy memory, + These honors, and additions of state + Are lent me for thy sake, be not so strange, + Let me not lose my entertainment, now + I am improv'd, and rais'd unto the height, + Beneath which, I did blush to ask thy love. + + _Pol._ Give me your pardon, Sir, _Arcadius_, + At our last meeting, without argument, + To move him more than his affection to me, + Vow'd he did love me; love me above all Women, + And to confirm his heart, was truely mine, + He wish'd, I tremble to remember it, + When he forsook his _Polidora's_ love, + That Heaven might kill his happiness on Earth: + Was not this nobly said? did not this promise + A truth to shame the Turtles? + + _Dem._ And his heart + Is still the same, and I thy constant Lover. + + _Pol._ Give me your leave, I pray, I would not say, + _Arcadius_ was perjur'd, but the same day + Forgetting all his promises, and oathes, + While yet they hung upon his lips, forsook me, + D'ee not remember this too, gave his faith + From me, transported with the noise of greatness, + And would be married to a Kingdom. + + _Dem._ But Heaven permitted not I should dispose + What was ordain'd for thee. + + _Pol._ It was not virtue + In him, for sure he found no check, no sting + In his own bosome, but gave freely all + The reines to blind ambition. + + _Dem._ I am wounded, + The thought of thee ith' throng of all my joyes, + Like poyson powr'd in Nectar, turnes me frantick: + Dear, if _Arcadius_ have made a fault, + Let not _Demetrius_ be punish'd for't, + He pleads that ever will be constant to thee. + + _Pol._ Shall I believe Mans flatteries agen, + Lose my sweet rest, and peace of thought agen, + Be drawn by you, from the streight paths of virtue, + Into the maze of Love. + + _Dem._ I see compassion in thy eye, that chides me, + If I have either soul, but what's contain'd + Within these words, or if one syllable + Of their full force, be not made good by me, + May all relenting thoughts in you take end, + And thy disdain be doubled, from thy pardon, + I'll count my Coronation; and that hour + Fix with a rubrick in my Calendar, + As an auspicious time, to entertain + Affairs of weight with Princes; think who now + Intreats thy mercy, come, thou sha't be kind, + And divide Titles with me. + + _Pol._ Hear me, Sir, + I lov'd you once for virtue, and have not + A thought so much unguarded, as to be won + From my truth, and innocence with any + Motives of state to affect you, + Your bright temptation mourns while it stayes here; + Nor can the triumph of glory, which made you + Forget me, so court my opinion back, + Were you no King, I should be sooner drawn + Again to love you, but 'tis now too late, + A low obedience shall become me best: + May all the joyes I want + Still wait on you, if time hereafter tell you, + That sorrow for your fault hath struck me dead, + May one soft tear drop from your eye, in pitty + Bedew my hearse, and I shall sleep securely: + I have but one word more for goodness sake, + For your own honor, Sir, correct your passion, + To her you shall love next, and I forgive you. [_Exit._ + + _Dem._ Her heart is frozen up, nor can warm prayers + Thaw it to any softness. + + _Phi._ I'll fetch her, Sir, again. + + _Dem._ Perswade her not. + + _Phi._ You give your passion too much leave to triumph. + Seek in another what she denies. + + _Enter_ Macarius. + + _Mac._ Where's the King? oh, Sir, you are undone, + A dangerous treason is a foot. + + _Dem._ What Treason? + + _Mac._ _Cassander_, and _Eubulus_ have proclaim'd + Another King, whom they pretend to be + _Leonatus_ your elder Brother, he that was, + But this morning prisoner in the Castle. + + _Dem._ Ha? + + _Mac._ The easie _Epirotes_ + Gather in multitudes to advance his Title, + They have seised upon the Court, secure your person, + Whilst we raise power to curbe this Insurrection. + + _Ant._ Lose no time then. + + _Dem._ We will not Arme one Man, + Speak it agen, have I a brother living? + And must be no King. + + _Mac._ What means your Grace? + + _Dem._ This newes doth speak me happy, it exalts + My heart, and makes me capable of more + Than twenty Kingdoms. + + _Phi._ Will you not, Sir, stand + Upon your guard? + + _Dem._ I'll stand upon my honor, + Mercy relieves me. + + _Lisa._ Will you lose the Kingdom? + + _Dem._ The World's too poor to bribe me: leave + Me all, lest you extenuate my fame, and I + Be thought to have redeem'd it by your counsel, + You shall not share one scruple in the honor; + Titles may set a gloss upon our Name, + But Virtue onely is the soul of Fame. + + _Mac._ He's strangely possest Gentlemen. [_Exeunt Omnes._ + + + + + _Actus Quintus. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter_ Philocles, _and_ Lisander. + + _Phi._ Heres a strange turne, _Lisander_. + + _Lisa._ 'Tis a Kingdom + Easily purchas'd, who will trust the faith + Of multitudes? + + _Phi._ It was his fault, that would + So tamely give his Title to their Mercy, + The new King has possession. + + _Lisa._ And is like + To keep't, we are alone, what dost think of + This innovation? Is't not a fine Jigge? + A precious cunning in the late Protector + To shuffle a new Prince into the state. + + _Phi._ I know not how they have shuffled, but my head on't, + A false card is turn'd up trump, but fates look to't. + + _Enter_ Cassander _and_ Eubulus. + + _Eub._ Does he not carry it bravely? + + _Cos._ Excellently. + _Philocles_, _Lisander_. + + _Phi. Lis._ Your Lordships servants, + Are we not bound to heaven, for multiplying + These blessings on the Kingdom. + + _Phi._ Heaven alone + Works miracles, my Lord. + + _Lisa._ I think your Lordship + Had as little hope once to see these Princes + Revive. + + _Phi._ Here we must place our thanks, + Next providence, for preserving + So dear a pledge. + + _Enter_ Leonatus _attended_. + + _Eub._ The King. + + _Leo._ It is our pleasure + The number of our guard be doubled, give + A Largess to the Soldiers; but dismiss not + The Troops till we command. + + _Cas._ May it please. + + _Leo._ It will not please us otherwise, my Lord, + We have try'd your faith. + + _Eub._ Does he not speak with confidence? + + _Leo._ My Lords and Gentlemen, to whose faith we must + Owe next to Heaven our fortune, and our safety, + After a tedious eclipse, the day + Is bright, and we invested in those honors, + Our bloud, and birth did challenge. + + _Cas._ May no time + Be registred in our annals, that shall mention + One that had life to oppose your sacred person. + + _Leo._ Let them, whose Titles forg'd and flaw'd, suspect + Their states security, our right to _Epire_, + Heaven is oblig'd to prosper, treason has + No face so black to fright it, all my cares + Level to this, that I may worthily + Manage the province, and advance the honor + Of our dear Countrey, and be confident, + If an expence of bloud, may give addition + Of any happiness to you, I shall + Offer my heart the sacrifice, and rejoyce + To make my self a ghost, to have inscrib'd + Upon my marble, but whose cause I died for. + + _Eub._ May Heaven avert such danger. + + _Cas._ Excellent Prince, + In whom we see the Copy of his Father, + None but the Son of _Theodosius_, + Could have spoke thus. + + _Leo._ [You] are pleas'd to interpret well, + Yet give me leave to say in my own justice, + I have but exprest the promptness of my soul + To serve you all, but 'tis not empty wishes + Can satisfie our mighty charge, a weight + Would make an _Atlas_ double, a Kings name + Doth sound harmoniously to men at distance; + And those who cannot penetrate beyond + The bark, and out-skin of a Common-wealth, + Or state, have eyes, but ravish'd with the Ceremony + That must attend a Prince, and understand not + What cares allay the glories of a Crown, + But good Kings find and feel the contrary, + You have try'd, my Lord, the burden, and can tell + It would require a Pilot of more years + To steer this Kingdom, now impos'd on me, + By justice of my birth. + + _Cas._ I wish not life, + But to partake those happy days, which must + Succeed these fair proceedings, we are blest, + But Sir, be sparing to your self, we shall + Hazard our joyes in you too soon, the burden + Of state affairs, impose upon your counsel. + 'Tis fitter that we waste our lives than you, + Call age too soon upon you with the trouble, + And cares that threaten such an undertaking, + Preserve your youth. + + _Leo._ And choose you our Prote[c]tor, + Is't that you would conclude my Lord? We will + Deserve our subjects faith for our own sake, + Not sit an idle gazer at the helm. + + _Enter Messenger._ + + _Phi._ How observ'd you that, + Mark how _Cassander's_ Planet struck. + + _Eu._ He might have look'd more calmly for all that, + I begin to fear; but do not yet seem troubled. + + _Leo._ With what news travels his haste? I must secure + My self betimes, not be a King in jest, + And wear my Crown a Tenant to their breath. + + _Cas. Demetrius,_ Sir, your brother, + With other Traitors that oppose your claims, + Are fled to the Castle of _Nestorius_, + And fortifie. + + _Mes._ I said not so my Lord. + + _Cas._ I'll have it thought so, hence. [_Exit Messen._ + + _Leo._ Plant forces to batter + The walls, and in their ruin bring us wor[d] + They live not. + + _Eub._ Good Sir hear me. + + _Cas._ Let it work, + Were _Demetrius_ dead, we easily might uncrown + This swoln Impostor, and my Son be fair + To piece with young _Sophia_, who I hear + Repents her late affront. + + _Eub._ Their lives may do + You service, let not blood stain your beginnings + The people not yet warm in their allegeance, + May think it worth their tumult to revenge it + With hazard of your self. + + _Leo._ Who dares but think it? + Yet offer first our mercy, if they yield, + _Demetrius_ must not live, my Lord your counsel, + What if he were in heaven? + + _Cas._ You have my consent, + You sha'not stay long after him. + + _Leo._ _Sophia_ is + Not my Sister, + To prevent all that may indanger us, we'll marry her; + That done, no matter though we stand discover'd, + For in her Title then we are King of _Epire,_ + Without dispute. + + _Cas._ Hum; in my judgement, Sir, + That wonot do so well. + + _Leo._ What's your opinion? + + _Cas._ He countermines my plot: are you so cunning. + + _Leo._ What's that you mutter; Sir? + + _Cas._ I mutter, Sir? + + _Leo._ Best say I am no King, but some impostor + Rais'd up to gull the state. + + _Cas._ Very fine to have said within + Few hours you'd been no King, nor like to be, + Was not in the compass of High Treason + I take it. + + _Eub._ Restrein your anger, the Kings mov'd, speak not. + + _Cas._ I will speak louder, do I not know him? + That self-same hand that rais'd him to the throne + Shall pluck him from it, is this my reward? + + _Leo._ Our guard, to prison with him. + + _Cas._ Me to prison? + + _Leo._ Off with his head. + + _Cas._ My head? + + _Eub._ Vouchsafe to hear me, great Sir. + + _Cas._ How dares he be so insolent? + I ha' wrought my self into a fine condition, + Do'e know me Gentlemen? + + _Phi._ Very well my Lord; + How are we bound to heaven for multiplying + These blessings on the Kingdom. + + _Leo._ We allow it. + + _Eub._ Counsel did never blast a Princes ear. + + _Leo._ Convey him to the sanctuary of Rebels, + _Nestorius_ house, where our proud brother has + Enscons'd himself, they'll entertain him lovingly, + He will be a good addition to the Traitors, + Obey me, or you dye for't, what are Kings + When subjects dare affront 'em? + + _Cas._ I shall vex + Thy soul for this. + + _Leo._ Away with him: when Kings + Frown, let offenders tremble, this flows not + From any cruelty in my nature, but + The fate of an Usurper: he that will + Be confirm'd great without just title to't, + Must lose compassion, know what's good, not do't. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Polidora _and her servant_. + + _Serv._ Madam, the Princess _Sophia_. + + _Pol._ I attend her Highness. + + _Enter_ Sophia. + + How much your grace honors your humble servant. + + _Sop._ I hope my brother's well. + + _Pol._ I hope so too, Madam. + + _Sop._ Do you but hope? he came to be your guest. + + _Pol._ We are all his, whilst he is pleas'd to honor + This poor roof with his royal presence, Madam. + + _Sop._ I came to ask your pardon _Polidora_. + + _Pol._ You never, Madam, trespass'd upon me, + Wrong not your goodness. + + _Sop._ I can be but penitent, + Unless you point me out some other way + To satisfie. + + _Pol._ Dear Madam, do not mock me. + + _Sop._ There [is] no injury like that to love, + I find it now in my own sufferings: + But though I would have rob'd thee of _Arcadius_ + Heaven knew a way to reconcile your hearts, + And punish[d] me in those joys you have found: + I read the story of my loss of honor, + Yet can rejoyce, and heartily, that you + Have met your own agen. + + _Pol._ Whom do you mean? + + _Sop._ My brother. + + _Pol._ He is found to himself and honor, + He is my King, and though I must acknowledge + He was the glory of my thoughts, and I + Lov'd him, as you did, Madam, with desire + To be made his, reason, and duty since, + Form'd me to other knowledge, and I now + Look on him without any wish of more + Than to be call'd his subject. + + _Sop._ Has he made + Himself less capable by being King? + + _Pol._ Of what? + + _Sop._ Of your affection. + + _Pol._ With your pardon, Madam. + Love in that sense you mean, left _Polidora_ + When he forsook _Arcadius_, I disclaim + All ties between us, more than what a name + Of King must challenge from my obedience. + + _Sop._ This does confirm my jealousie, my heart, + For my sake, Madam, has he lost his value? + + _Pol._ Let me beseech your grace, I may have leave + To answer in some other cause, or person: + This argument but opens a sad wound + To make it bleed afresh; we may change this + Discourse: I would elect some subject, whose + Praises may more delight your ear than this + Can mine; let's talk of young _Lisimachus_. + + _Sop._ Ha? my presaging fears. + + _Pol._ How does your grace? + + _Sop._ Well, you were talking of _Lisimachus_, + Pray give me your opinion of him. + + _Pol._ Mine? + It will be much short of his worth: I think him + A gentleman so perfect in all goodness, + That if there be one in the world deserves + The best of women, heaven created him, + To make her happy. + + _Sop._ You have, in a little, Madam, + Exprest a volume of mankind, a miracle; + But all have not the same degree of faith, + He is but young. + + _Pol._ What Mistriss would desire + Her servant old? he has both Spring to please + Her eye and Summer to return a harvest. + + _Sop._ He is black. + + _P[o]l._ He sets a beauty off more rich, + And she that's fair will love him; faint complexions + Betray effeminate minds, and love of change: + Two beauties in a bed, compound few men; + He's not so fair to counterfeit a woman, + Nor yet so black, but blushes may betray + His modesty. + + _Sop._ His proportion exceeds not. + + _Pol._ That praises him, and a well compacted frame + Speaks temper, and sweet flow of elements: + Vast buildings are more oft for shew than use: + I would not have my eyes put to the travel + Of many acres, e'r I could examine + A man from head to foot; he has no great, + But he may boast, an elegant composition. + + _Sop._ I'll hear no more, you have so far out-done + My injuries to you, that I call back + My penitence, and must tell _Polidora_, + This revenge ill becomes her. Am I thought + So lost in soul to hear, and forgive this? + In what shade do I live? or shall I think + I have not, at the lowest, enough merit, + Setting aside my birth, to poize with yours: + Forgive my modest thoughts, if I rise up + In my own defence, and tell this unjust Lady + So great a winter hath not frozen yet + My cheek, but there [is] something nature planted, + That carries as much bloom, and spring upon't, + As yours. What flame is in your eye, but may + Find competition here? (forgive agen + My Virgin honor,) what is in your lip + To tice the enamour'd soul, to dwell with more + Ambition, than the yet unwither'd blush + That speaks the innocence of mine? + + _Enter_ Demetrius. + + Oh brother? + + _Dem._ I'll talk with you anon, my _Polidora_, + Allow thy patience till my breath recover, + Which now comes laden with the richest news + Thy ear was ever blest with. + + _Sop._ Both your looks, + And voice express some welcome accident. + + _Dem._ Guess what in wish could make me fortunate + And heaven hath dropt that on _Demetrius_. + + _Sop._ What means this extasie? + + _Dem._ 'Twere sin to busie + Thy thoughts upon't, I'll tell thee that I could + Retein some part; 'tis too wide a joy + To be exprest so soon, and yet it falls + In a few syllables, thou wot scarce believe me, + I am no King. + + _Sop._ How's that! + + _Pol._ Good Heaven forbid. + + _Dem._ Forbid? Heaven has reliev'd me with a mercy + I knew not how to ask, I have, they say, + An elder brother living, crown'd already, + I only keep my name _Demetrius_, + Without desire of more addition, + Than to return thy servant. + + _Pol._ You amaze me, + Can you rejoyce to be deposed: + + _Dem._ It but + Translates me to a fairer and better Kingdom + In _Polidora_. + + _Pol._ Me? + + _Dem._ Did you not say, + Were I no King, you could be drawn to love + Me agen, that was consented to in Heaven: + A Kingdom first betraid my ambitious soul + To forget thee, that, and the flattering glories, + How willingly _Demetrius_ does resign, + The Angels know: thus naked without Titles + I throw me on thy charity, and shall + Boast greater Empire to be thine agen, than + To wear the triumphs of the world upon me. + + _Enter_ Macarius. + + _Mac._ Be not so careless of your self, the people + Gather in multitudes to your protection + Offering their lives and fortunes, if they may + But see you Sir, and hear you speak to 'em, + Accept their duties, and in time prevent + Your ruin. + + _Sop._ Be not desperate, 'tis counsel. + + _Dem._ You trouble me with noise, speak _Polidora_. + + _Pol._ For your own sake preserve your self, + My fears distract my reason. + + _Enter_ Antigonus. + + _Ant._ Lord _Lisimachus_, + With something that concerns your safety, is + Fled hither, and desires a present hearing. + + _Mac._ His soul is honest, be not, Sir, a mad man, + And for a Lady, give up all our freedoms. [_Exit._ + + _Pol._ I'll say any thing here, _Lisimachus_. + + _Sop._ Dear brother hear him. + + _Enter_ Lisimachus. + + _Lis._ Sir, I come to yield + My self your prisoner, if my father have + Rais'd an Impostor to supplant your Title + Which I suspect, and inwardly do bleed for, + I shall not only, by the tender of + My self, declare my innocence, but either, + By my unworthy life, secure your person, + Or by what death you shall impose, reward + The unexpected Treason. + + _Sop._ Brave young man, + Did you not hear him Brother? + + _Lis._ I am not minded. + + _Pol._ Be witness Madam, I resign my heart + It never was anothers, you declare + Too great a satisfaction, I hope + This will destroy your jealousie, + Remember now your danger. + + _Dem._ I despise it, + What fate dares injure me? + + _Lis._ Yet hear me Sir. + + _Sop._ Forgive me _Polidora_, you are happy, + My hopes are remov'd farther, I had thought + _Lisimachus_ had meant you for his Mistriss, + 'Tis misery to feed, and not know where + To place my jealousie. + + _Enter_ Macarius. + + _Mac._ Now 'tis too late, + You may be deafe, until the Cannon make, + You find your sense, we are shut up now by + A troop of Horse, thank your self. + + _Pol._ They will + Admit conditions. + + _Sop._ And allow us quarter. [_A shout within._ + + _Pol._ We are all lost. + + _Dem._ Be comforted. + + _Enter_ Antigonus. + + _Ant._ News my Lord _Cassander_ sent by the new King. + To bear us company. + + _Dem._ Not as prisoner? + + _Ant._ It does appear no otherwise, the soldiers + Declare how much they love him, by their noise + Of scorn, and joy to see him so rewarded. + + _Dem._ It cannot be. + + _Ant._ You'll find it presently, + He curses the new King, talks treason 'gainst him + As nimble as he were in's shirt, he's here. + + _Enter_ Cassander. + + _Cas._ Oh let me beg untill my knees take root + I' th' earth, Sir, can you pardon me? + + _Dem._ For what? + + _Cas._ For Treason, desperate, most malicious Treason: + I have undone you Sir. + + _Dem._ It does appear + You had a Will. + + _Cas._ I'll make you all the recompence I can, + But e'r you kill me, hear me, know the man, + Whom I to serve my unjust ends, advanc'd + To your throne, is an impostor, a mere counterfeit, + _Eubulus'_ Son. [_E[xit]_ Anti. + + _Dem._ It is not then our brother? + + _Cas._ An insolent usurper, proud, and bloudy; + _Seleucus_, is no leprosie upon me? + There is not punishment enough in nature + To quit my horrid act, I have not in + My stock of blood, to satisfie with weeping, + Nor could my soul, though melted to a flood + Within me, gush out tears to wash my stain off. + + _Dem._ How? an Impostor, what will become on's now? + We are at his mercy. + + _Cas._ Sir, the peoples hearts + Will come to their own dwelling, when they see + I dare accuse my self, and suffer for it, + Have courage then young King, thy fate cannot + Be long compell'd. + + _Dem._ Rise, our misfortune + Carries this good, although it lose our hopes, + It makes you friend with virtue, we'll expect + What providence will do. + + _Cas._ You are too merciful. + + _Lis._ Our duties shall beg heaven still to preserve you. + + _Enter_ Antigonus. + + _Ant._ Our enemy desires some parley, Sir. + + _Lis._ 'Tis not amiss to hear their proposition. + + _Pol._ I'll wait upon you. + + _Dem._ Thou art my Angel, and canst best instruct me, + Boldly present our selves, you'll with _Cassander._ + + _Cas._ And in death be blest + To find our charity. [_Exit._ + + _Sop._ _Lisimachus._ + + _Lis._ Madam. + + _Sop._ They will not miss your presence, the small time + Is spent in asking of a question. + + _Lis._ I wait your pleasure. + + _Sop._ Sir, I have a suit to you. + + _Lis._ To me? it must be granted. + + _Sop._ If you have + Cancell'd your kind opinion of me, + Deny me not to know, who hath succeeded + _Sophia_ in your heart, I beg the name + Of your new Mistriss. + + _Lis._ You shall know her, Madam, + If but these tumults cease, and fate allow us + To see the Court agen, I hope you'll bring + No mutiny against her, but this is + No time to talk of Love, let me attend you. + + _Sop._ I must expect, till you are pleas'd to satisfie + My poor request, conduct me at your pleasure. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Leonatus, Eubulus, Bishop, Lisander, _and_ Philocles. + + _Leo._ They are too slow, dispatch new messengers, + To intreat 'em fairly hither, I am extasi'd, + Were you witness for me too? is it possible + I am what this affirms, true _Leonatus_, + And were you not my Father, was I given + In trust to you an Infant? + + _Eub._ 'Tis a truth, + Our soul's bound to acknowledge, you supply'd + The absence and opinion of my Son. + Who died, but to make you my greater care + I know not of _Demetrius_, but suppos'd + Him dead indeed, as _Epire_ thought you were, + Your Fathers character doth want no testimony, + Which but compar'd with what concerns _Demetrius_ + Will prove it self King _Theodosius_ act, + Your Royal Father. + + _Bish._ I am subscrib'd to both his Legacies + By oath oblig'd to secresie, until + Thus fairly summon'd to reveal the trust. + + _Eub._ _Cassander_ had no thought you would prove thus, + To whose policie I gave this aim, although + He wrought you up to serve but as his Engine + To batter young _Demetrius_, for it was + Your Fathers prudent jealousie, that made him + Give out your early deaths, as if his soul + Prophecy'd his own first, and fear'd to leave + Either of you, to the unsafe protection, + Of one, whose study would be to supplant + Your right, and make himself the King of _Epire._ + + _Bish._ Your Sister, fair _Sophia_, in your Fathers + Life, was design'd to marry with _Lisimachus_ + That guarded her; although she us'd some Art + To quit her pupillage, and being absolute, + Declar'd love to _Demetrius_, which enforc'd + _Macarius_ to discover first your brother. + + _Leo._ No more, lest you destroy agen _Leonatus_ + With wonder of his fate, are they not come yet? + Something it was, I felt within my envy + Of young _Demetrius's_ fortune, there were seeds + Scattered upon my heart, that made it swell + With thought of Empire, Princes I see cannot + Be totally eclips'd, but wherefore stays + _Demetrius_ and _Sophia_, at whose names + A gentle spirit walk'd upon my blood. + + _Enter_ Demetrius, Polidora, Sophia, Macarius, _Cassander_, + _Lisima_. + + _Eub._ They are here. + + _Leo._ Then thus I flie into their bosoms, + Nature has rectifi'd in me, _Demetrius_, + The wandrings of ambition, our dear Sister + You are amaz'd, I did expect it, read + Assurance there, the day is big with wonder. + + _Mac._ What means all this? + + _Leo._ _Lisimachus_, be dear to us, + _Cassander_, you are welcome too. + + _Cas._ Not I, + I do not look for't, all this sha'not bribe + My conscience to your faction, and make + Me false agen, _Seleucus_ is no son + Of _Theodosius_, my dear Countrey-men + Correct your erring duties, and to that, + Your lawful King, prostrate your selves, _Demetrius_ + Doth challenge all your knees. + + _Dem._ All Love and Duty, + Flow from me to my Royal King, and Brother + I am confirm'd. + + _Cas._ You are t[o]o credulous, + What can betray your faith so much? + + _Leo._ _Sophia_, you appear sad, as if your Will + Gave no consent to this days happiness. + + _Sop._ No joy exceeds _Sophia's_ for your self. + + _Lis._ With your pardon, Sir, I apprehend + A cause that makes her troubled, she desires + To know, what other Mistriss, since her late + Unkindness I have chosen to direct + My faith and service. + + _Leo._ Another Mistriss? + + _Lis._ Yes, Sir. + + _Leo._ And does our Sister love _Lisimachus_? + + _Sop._ Here's something would confess. + + _Leo._ He must not dare + To affront _Sophia_. + + _Cas._ How my shame confounds me, + I beg your justice, without pity on + My age. + + _Leo._ Your pennance shall be, to be faithful + To our state hereafter, + + _Omnes._ May you live long and happy, + _Leonatus_, King of _Epire_. + + _Leo._ But where's your other Mistriss? + + _Lis._ Even here, Sir. + + _Leo._ Our Sister? is this another Mistriss, Sir? + + _[L]is._ It holds + To prove my thoughts were so when she began + Her sorrow for neglecting me, that sweetness + Deserv'd, I should esteem her another Mistriss, + Then when she cruelly forsook _Lisimachus_, + Your pardon Madam, and receive a heart + Proud with my first devotions to serve you. + + _Sop._ In this I am crown'd agen, now mine for ever. + + _Leo._ You have deceiv'd her happily, + Joy to you both. + + _Dem._ We are ripe for the same wishes, + _Polidora's_ part of me. + + _Pol._ He all my blessing. + + _Leo._ Heaven pour full joys upon you. + + _Mac._ We are all blest, + There wants but one to fill your arms. + + _Leo._ My Mistriss, + And Wife shall be my Countrey, to which I + Was in my birth contracted, your love since + Hath plaid the Priest to perfect what was ceremony + Though Kingdoms by just Titles prove our own, + The subjects hearts do best secure a Crown. [_Exeunt Omnes._ + + + + + EPILOGUE. + + + _There is no Coronation to day, + Unless your gentle votes do crown our Play, + If smiles appear within each Ladies eye, + Which are the leading Stars in this fair skie, + Our solemn day sets glorious, for then + We hope by their s[oft] influence, the men + Will grace what they first shin'd on, make't appear, + (Both) how we please, and bless our covetous ear + With your applause, more welcome than the Bells + Upon a triumph, Bonfires, or what else + Can speak a Coronation. And though I + Were late depos'd, and spoil'd of Majesty, + By the kind aid of your hands, Gentlemen, + I quickly may be Crown'd a Queen agen._ + + + + + THE + COXCOMB. + A Comedy. + + + The Persons represented in the Play. + + Ricardo, _a young Gentleman, in love with_ Viola. + Antonio, _the Coxcomb Gentleman_. + Mercurie, _fellow-traveller with_ Antonio. + Uberto, } + Pedro, } _three merry Gentlemen, friends to_ Ricardo. + Silvio, } + Valerio, _a Countrey Gentleman_. + Curio, _Kinsman to_ Antonio. + Justice, _a shallow one_. + Andrugio, _Father to_ Viola. + Alexander, _servant to_ Mercurie's _Mother_. + Marke, _the Justice's Clerk_. + Rowland, _servant to_ Andrugio. + Tinker. + Constable. + Watch. + Drawer. + Musicians. + + + WOMEN. + + Viola, _Daughter to_ Andrugio. + Maria, _Wife to_ Antonio. + A Countrey-woman, _Mother to_ Mercurie. + Nan _and_ } _Milk-maids._ + Madge. } + Dorothie, _the Tinkers Trull_. + + + The Scene England, France. + + + The Principal Actors were + + _Nathan Field_, + _Giles Gary_, + _Rich. Allen_, + _Robert Benfeild._ + _Joseph Taylor_, + _Emanuel Read_, + _Hugh Atawell_, + _Will. Barcksted._ + + + + + PROLOGUE. + + + _This Comedy long forgot, by some thought dead, + By us preserv'd, once more doth raise her head. + And to your noble censures does present, + Her outward form, and inward ornament. + Nor let this smell of arrogance, since 'tis known, + The makers that confest it for their own + Were this way skilful, and without the crime + Of flatteries I may say did please the time; + The work it self too, when it first came forth, + In the opinion of men of worth, + Was well receiv'd and favour'd, though some rude + And harsh among th' ignorant multitude, + (That relish gross food, better than a dish, + That's cook'd with care, and serv'd into the wish, + Of curious pallats) wanting wit and strength, + Truly to judge, condemn'd it for the length, + That fault's reform'd, and now 'tis to be try'd + Before such Judges 'twill not be deny'd + A free and noble hearing: nor fear I, + But 'twill deserve to have free liberty, + And give you cause (and with content) to say, + Their care was good, that did revive this Play._ + + + + + _Actus Primus. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter_ Richardo _and_ Viola. + + _Rich._ Let us make use of this stolen privacy, + And not loose time in protestation, Mistriss, + For 'twere in me a kind of breach of faith, + To say again I love you. + + _Vio._ Sweet, speak softly + For though the venture of your love to me, + Meets with a willing, and a full return: + Should it arrive unto my Fathers knowledge; + This were our last discourse. + + _Rich._ How shall he know it? + + _Vio._ His watching cares are such, for my advancement, + That every where his eye is fix'd upon me: + This night that does afford us some small freedom, + At the request and much intreaty of + The Mistriss of the House, was hardly given me: + For I am never suffer'd to stir out, + But he hath spies upon me: yet I know not + You have so won upon me, that could I think + You would love faithfully (though to entertain + Another thought of you, would be my death) + I should adventure on his utmost anger. + + _Rich._ Why do you think I can be false? + + _Vio._ No faith, + You [h]ave an honest face, but if you should-- + + _Rich._ Let all the stor'd vengeance of heaven's justice-- + + _Vio._ No more, I do believe you, the dance ended, + Which this free womans ghests have vow'd to have + E'r they depart, I will make home, and store me + With all the Jewels, Chains, and Gold are trusted + Unto my custody, and at the next corner, + To my Fathers house, before one at the farthest, + Be ready to receive me. + + _Rich._ I desire + No bond beyond your promise, let's go in, + To talk thus much, before the door, may breed + Suspition. + + _Enter_ Mercury _and_ Antonio _talking_. + + _Vio._ Here are company too. + + _Rich._ Away, + Those powers that prosper true and honest loves + Will bless our undertakings. + + _Vio._ 'Tis my wish, Sir. [_Exit_ Rich. _and_ Vio. + + _Mer._ Nay, Sir, excuse me, I have drawn you to + Too much expence already in my travel: + And you have been too forward in your love; + To make my wants your own, allow me manners + Which you must grant I want, should I increase, + The bond in which your courtesies have ti'd me: + By still consuming you, give me leave + To take mine own ways now, and I shall often, + With willingness, come to visit you, and then thank you. + + _Ant._ By this hand I could be angry, what do you think me? + Must we that have so long time been as one + Seen Cities, Countreys, Kingdoms, and their wonders; + Been bedfellows, and in our various journey + Mixt all our observations, part (as if + We were two Carriers at two several ways, + And as the fore-horse guides, cry God be with you) + Without or compliment, or ceremony? + In Travellers, that know transalpine garbs, + Though our designs are nee'r so serious, friend, + It were a capital crime, it must not be: + Nay, what is more, you shall not; you e'r long, + Shall see my house, and find what I call mine + Is wholly at your service. + + _Mer._ 'Tis this tires me, + Sir, I were easily woo'd, if nothing else + But my Will lay in the choice: but 'tis not so, + My friends and kindred that have part of me, + And such on whom my chiefest hopes depend, + Justly expect the tender of my love + After my travel: then mine own honesty + Tells me 'tis poor, having indifferent means + To keep me in my quality and rank, + At my return, to tire anothers bounty, + And let mine own grow lusty, pardon me. + + _Ant._ I will not, cannot, to conclude, I dare not: + Can any thing conferr'd upon my friend + Be burthensome to me? for this excuse + Had I no reason else, you should not leave me, + By a travellers faith you should not, I have said, + And then you know my humor, there's no contending. + + _Mer._ Is there no way to 'scape this Inundation? + I shall be drown'd with folly if I go: + And after nine days, men may take me up, + With my gall broken. + + _Ant._ Are you yet resolv'd? + + _Mer._ Wou'd you would spare me. + + _Ant._ By this light I cannot + By all that may be sworn by. + + _Mer._ Patience help me, + And heaven grant his folly be not catching: + If it be, the Town's undone, I now would give + A reasonable sum of gold to any Sheriff, + That would but lay an execution on me, + And free me from his company; while he was abroad, + His want of wit and language kept him dumb? + But _Balaam's_ Asse will speak now, without spurring. + + _Ant._ Speak, have I won you?-- + + _Enter Servant and Musician._ + + _Mer._ You are not to be resisted. + + _Ser._ Be ready I intreat you, the dance done, + Besides a liberal reward I have, + A bottle of Sherry in my power shall beget + New crotchets in your heads. + + _Musi._ Tush, fear not us, we'll do our parts. + + _Serv._ Go in. + + _Ant._ I know this fellow. + Belong you to the house? + + _Serv._ I serve the Mistriss. + + _Ant._ Pretty, and short, pray you Sir then inform her, + Two Gentlemen are covetous to be honor'd, + With her fair presence. + + _Serv._ She shall know so much, + This is a merry night with us, and forbid not + Welcome to any that looks like a man: + I'll guide you the way. + + _Ant._ Nay, follow, I have a trick in't. [_Exit._ + + _Enter_ Uberto, Silvio, Richardo, Maria, Pedro, Portia, Viola, + _with others_. + + _Uber._ Come, where's this Masque? fairest, for our chear, + Our thanks and service, may you long survive, + To joy in many of these nights. + + _Mar._ I thank you. + + _Uber._ We must have Musick too, or else you give us, + But half a welcome. + + _Mar._ Pray you Sir, excuse me. + + _Silv._ By no means, Lady. + + _Uber._ We'll crown our liberal feast, + With some delightful strain fitting your love: + And this good company. + + _Mar._ Since you enforce it, + I will not plead the excuse of want of skill + Or be, or nice, or curious, every year + I celebrate my marriage night; and will + Till I see my absent Husband. + + _Uber._ 'Tis fit freedom. + + _Silv._ _Richardo_ thou art dull-- + + _Enter Servant._ + + _Rich._ I shall be lighter, + When I have had a heat. + + _Mar._ Now Sir, the news? + + _Serv._ Mistriss, there are two Gentlemen. + + _Mar._ Where? + + _Serv._ Complimenting who should first enter. + + _Mar._ What are they? + + _Serv._ Heaven knows, but for their strangeness, have you never seen + a Cat wash her face? + + _Uber._ Yes. + + _Serv._ Just such a stir they keep, if you make but haste, + You may see 'em yet before they enter. + + _Enter_ Antonia _and_ Mercurie. + + _Mer._ Let 'em be what they [will,] we'll [give] them fair + Entertain, and gentle welcome. + + _Ant._ It shall be so. + + _Mer._ Then let it be your pleasure. + + _Ant._ Lets stand aside, and you shall see us have + Fine sport anon. + + _Mer._ A fair society, do you know these Gentlewomen? + + _Ant._ Yes. + + _Mer._ What are they? + + _Ant._ The second is a neighbors Daughter, her name is _Viola_. + There is my kinsmans wife, _Portia_ her name, and a + Friend too. + + _Mer._ Let her--what's she that leads the dance? + + _1 Serv._ A Gentlewoman. + + _Mer._ I see that. + + _1 Serv._ Indeed? + + _Mer._ What? + + _1 Serv._ A Gentlewoman. + + _Mer._ Udsfoot, good Sir, what's she that leads the dance? + + _2 Serv._ My Mistriss. + + _Mer._ What else? + + _2 Serv._ My Mistriss, Sir. + + _Mer._ Your Mistriss? a pox on you, + What a fry of fools are here? I see 'tis treason to understand in + this house: if nature were not better to them, than they can be to + themselves, they would scant hit their mouths; my Mistriss? is there + any one with so much wit in's head, that can tell me at the first + fight, what Gentlewoman that is that leads the dance? + + [_Ant._] 'Tis my wife. + + _Mer._ Hum. + + _Ant._ How dost thou like her? + + _Mer._ Well, a pretty Gentlewoman. + + _Ant._ Prethee be quiet. + + _Mer._ I would I could + Let never any hereafter that's a man, + That has affections in him, and free passions, + Receive the least tye from such a fool as this is, + That holds so sweet a wife, 'tis lamentable to consider truly + What right he robs himself of, and what wrong + He doth the youth of such a Gentlewoman, + That knows her beauty, is no longer hers, + Than men will please to make it so, and use it + Neither of which lies freely in a Husband, + Oh what have I done, what have I done, Coxcomb? + If I had never seen, or never tasted + The goodness of this kix, I had been a made man, + But now to make a Cuckold is a sin + Against all forgiveness, worse than a murther; + I have a Wolf by the ears, and am bitten both ways. + + _Ant._ How now friend, what are you thinking of? + + _Mer._ Nothing concerning you, I must be gone. + + _Ant._ Pardon me, I'll have no going, Sir. + + _Mer._ Then good Sir, give me leave to go to bed, + I am very weary, and ill-temper'd. + + _Ant._ You shall presently, the dance is done. + + _1 Serv._ Mistriss, these are the Gentlemen. + + _Mar._ My Husband's welcome home, dear Sir. + + _Mer._ She's fair still, oh that I were a knave, or durst be one, + For thy sake coxcomb; he that invented honesty, undid me. + + _Ant._ I thought you had not known me, y'are merry 'tis well; thought, + And how ist with these worthy Gentlemen? + + _Ub & Sil._ We are glad to see you here again. + + _Ant._ Oh Gent, what ha' you lost? but get you into travels, + There you may learn, I cannot say what hidden virtues. + + _Mer._ Hidden from you I am sure, + My blood boils like a furnace, + She's a fare one. + + _Ant._ Pray entertain this Gent. with all the courtesie, + Fitting my most especial friend. + + _Mar._ What this poor house may yield, + To make you welcome, dear Sir, command + Without more compliment. + + _Mer._ I thank you: + She's wise, and speaks well too, oh what a blessing + Is gone by me, ne'er to be recovered! + Well, 'twas an old shame the Devil laid up for me, and now has hit me + home; if there be any ways to be dishonest, and save myself yet,---- + No, it must not be, why should I be a fool too----Yet those eyes would + tempt another _Adam_, how they call to me, and tell me----S'foot, they + shall not tell me any thing, Sir, will you walk in? + + _Ant._ How is't, Signior? + + _Mer._ Crazie a little. + + _Mar._ What ail you, Sir? + What's in my power, pray make use of, Sir. + + _Mer._ 'Tis that must do me good, she does not mock me sure? + And't please you nothing, my disease is only weariness. + + _Ub._ Come Gentlemen, we'll not keep you from your beds too long. + + _Rich._ I ha' some business, and 'tis late, and you far from your + lodging. + + _Sil._ Well. [_Exit manent_, Ant. Mar. _and_ Mer. + + _Ant._ Come my dear _Mercury_, I'll bring you to your chamber, and + then I am for you _Maria_, thou art a new wife to me now, and thou + shalt find it e'r I sleep. + + _Mer._ And I, an old ass to my self, mine own rod whips me,--good Sir, + no more of this, 'tis tedious, you are the best guide in your own + house--go Sir-- [_Exit_ Ant. _and_ Mer. + This fool and his fair Wife have made me frantick + From two such Physicks for the soul, deliver me. [_Exit._ + + _Enter_ Richardo, Uberto, Pedro, _and_ Silvio. + + _Ub._ Well you must have this wench then. + + _Ric._ I hope so, I am much o'th' bow-hand else. + + _Ped._ Wou'd I were hang'd, 'tis a good loving little fool, that dares + venture her self upon a coast she never knew yet, but these women, + when they are once thirteen, god speed the plough. + + _Sil._ Faith they'll venture further for their lading, than a + Merchant, and through as many storms, but they'll be fraughted, they + are mad[e] like _Carrecks_, only strength and storage. + + _Ric._ Come, come, you talk, you talk. + + _Sil._ We do so, but tell me _Richardo_, wot thou marry her? + + _Ric._ Marry her? why, what should I do with her? + + _Ped._ Pox, I thought we should have [had] all shares in her, like + lawful prize. + + _Ric._ No by my faith, Sir, you shall pardon me, I lanch'd her at my + own charge, without partners and so I'll keep her. + + _Ub._ What's the hour? + + _Rich._ Twelve. + + _Ub._ What shall we do the while? 'tis yet scarce eleven. + + _Sil._ There's no standing here, is not this the place? + + _Ric._ Yes. + + _Ped._ And to go back unto her fathers house, may breed suspition, + Let's slip into a Tavern, for an hour, 'tis very cold. + + _Ub._ Content, there is one hard by, a quart of burnt sack will + recover us, I am as cold as Christmas, this stealing flesh in the + frosty weather, may be sweet i'th' eating, but sure the Woodmen have + no great catch on't; Shall's go? + + _Rich._ Thou art the strangest lover of a Tavern, What shall we do + there now? lose the hour and our selves too. + + _Ub._ Lose a pudding; What do'st thou talk of the hour; Will one quart + muzle us? have we not ears to hear, and tongues to ask the Drawers, + but we must stand here like bawds to watch the minutes? + + _Sil._ Prethee content thy self, we shall scout here, as though we + went a haying, and have some mangey prentice, that cannot sleep for + scratching, over-hear us; Come, Will you go Sirs? when your love fury + is a little frozen, you'll come to us. + + _Ric._ Will you drink but one quart then? + + _Ped._ No more i'faith. + + _Sil._ Content. + + _Ric._ Why then, have with you, but lets be very watchful. + + _Ub._ As watchful as the Belman, come, I'll lead, because I hate good + manners, they are too tedious. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Viola _with a Key, and a little Casket_. + + The night is terrible, and I enclos'd + With that my vertue and my self hate most, + Darkness; yet must I fear that which I wish, + Some company, and every step I take + Sounds louder in my fearful ears to night + Than ever did, the shrill and sacred bell + That rang me to my prayers; the house will rise + When I unlock the dore, were it by day + I am bold enough, but then a thousand eyes + Warne me from going, might not [God] have made + A time for envious prying folk to sleep, + Whilst lovers met, and yet the Sun have shone? + Yet I was bold enough, to steal this key + Out of my fathers Chamber, and dare yet + Venture upon mine enemy, the night, + Arm'd only with my love, to meet my friend + Alas how valiant, and how fraid at once + Love makes a Virgin! I will throw this key + Back through a window, I had wealth enough + In Jewels with me, if I hold his love + I steal e'm for; farewell my place of birth, + I never make account to look on thee again; + And if there be, as I have heard men say, + These houshold gods, I do beseech them look + To this my charge, bless it from theeves and fire, + And keep, till happily my love I win, + Me from thy door, and hold my Father in. [_Exit._ + + _Enter_ Richardo, Pedro, Uberto, Silvio, _and_ Drawer _with + a Candle_. + + _Ric._ No more for Gods sake, how is the night boy? + + _Draw._ Faith Sir, 'tis very late. + + _Ub._ Faith, Sir, you lie, is this your jack i'th' clock-house? + will you strike, Sir? gi's some more sack, you varlet. + + _Ric._ Nay, if you love me, good _Uberto_ goe, + I am monstrous hot with Wine. + + _Ub._ Quench it again with love, Gentlemen, I will drink one health + more, and then if my legs say me not shamefully nay, I will go with + you, give me a singular quart. + + _Draw._ Of what Wine Sir? + + _Uber._ Of Sack, you that speak confusion at the bar, of Sack, I say, + and every one his quart, what a Devil lets be merry. + + _Draw._ You shall, Sir. [_Exit._ + + _Ped._ We will, Sir, and a dryed tongue. + + _Sil._ And an Olive, boy, and a whole bunch of fidlers, my head swims + plaguely, 'uds pretious I shall be clawd. + + _Enter_ Drawer _with four quarts of wine_. + + _Ric._ Pray go, I can drink no more, think on your promise, 'tis + midnight Gentlemen. + + _Ub._ O that it were dum midnight now, not a word more, every man on's + knees, and betake himself to his saint, here's to your wench, + seignior, all this, and then away. + + _Rich._ I cannot drink it. + + _Ped._ 'Tis a toy, a toy, away wo't. + + _Uber._ Now dare I speak any thing, to any body living, come, Where's + the fault? off with it. + + _Ric._ I have broke my wind, Call you this Sack?--I wonder who made + it? he was a sure workman, for 'tis plaguy strong work, Is it gone + round? + + _Ub._ 'Tis at the last, out of my way, good boy, Is the Moon up yet? + + _Draw._ Yes, Sir. + + _Ub._ Where is she boy? + + _Draw._ There, Sir. + + _Ub._ We shall have rain and thunder, boy. + + _Draw._ When Sir? + + _Ub._ I cannot tell, but sure we shall boy. + + _Draw._ The Gentleman is Wine-wise. + + _Uber._ Drawer? + + _Draw._ Here, Sir. + + _Ub._ Can you procure? + + _Draw._ What Sir? + + _Uber._ A Whore, or two or three, as need shall serve, boy? + + _Sil._ I, a good Whore were worth money, boy. + + _Draw._ I protest Sir, we are all together unprovided. + + _Ric._ The mor's the pitty, boy, Can you not 'vize us where my Child? + + [_Draw._ Neither, in troth sir.] + + _Ped._ Why where were you brought up, boy? no inckling of a Whore? no + aym my boy? + + _Uber._ It cannot sink in my head now, that thou shouldst marry, Why + shouldst thou marry, tell me? + + _Rich._ I marry? I'll be hang'd first: some more wine boy. + + _Sil._ Is she not a Whore translated? and she be, lets repair to her. + + _Ric._ I cannot tell, she may be an offender; but signior _Silvio_, I + shall scratch your head, indeed I shall. + + _Sil._ Judge me, I do but jest with thee, what an she were inverted + with her heeles upward, like a traitor's Coat? what care I. + + _Ub._ I, hang her, Shall we fall out for her? + + _Rich._ I am a little angry, but these wenches, Did you not talke of + wenches? + + _Sil._ Boy, lend me your Candle. + + _Draw._ Why Sir? + + _Sil._ To set fire to your rotten seeling, you'll keep no Whores, + Rogue, no good members. + + _Draw._ Whores, Sir. + + _Sih._ I, Whores Sir, Do you think we come to lye with your hogsheads? + + _Rich._ I must beat the watch, I have long'd for't any time this three + weeks. + + _Silv._ Wee'll beat the Town too, and thou wilt, we are proof boy; + Shall [wee] kill any body? + + _Rich._ No, but wee'll hurt 'em dangerously. + + _Uber._ _Silv._ Now must I kill one, I cannot avoid it, boy, easily + afore there with your candle; Where's your Mistriss? + + _Draw._ A bed, Sir. + + _Sil._ With whom? + + _Draw._ With my Master. + + _Uber._ You lye Boy, shee's better brought up than to lye with her + husband, Has he not cast his head yet? next year he will be a + velvet-headed Cuckold. [_Exeunt._ + + _Draw._ You are a merry Gentleman, there Sir, take hold. + + _Enter_ Viola. + + _Viola._ This is the place, I have out-told the Clock, + For haste, he is not here. _Richardo_? no; + Now every power that loves and is belov'd: + Keep me from shame to night, for all you know + Each thought of mine is innocent, and pure, + As flesh and blood can hold: I cannot back; + I threw the Key within, and ere I raise + My Father up, to see his daughters shame, + I'll set me down, and tell the Northern Wind, + That it is gentler than the curling West; + If it will blow me dead, but he will come; + I'faith 'tis cold; if he deceive me thus, + A woman will not easily trust a Man. Hark, What's that? + + _Sil. within._ Th'art over long at thy pot, tom, tom, thou art over + long at the pot tom. + + _Viol._ Bless me! Whose that? + + _Pedro within._ Whoo! + + _Uber. within._ There Boyes. + + _Viol._ Darkness be thou my cover, I must fly, + To thee I haste for help-- + + _Enter_ Richardo, Pedro, Uberto, Drawer _with a Torch_. + + _Viol._ They have a light, + Wind, if thou lov'st a Virgin, blow it out, + And I will never shut a window more, + To keep thee from me. + + _Rich._ Boy? + + _Draw._ Sir. + + _Rich._ Why Boy? + + _Draw._ What say you, Sir? + + _Rich._ Why Boy? Art thou drunk Boy? + + _Draw._ What would you, Sir? + + _Rich._ Why very good, Where are we? + + _Uber._ I, that's the point. + + _Draw._ Why Sir, you will be at your Lodging presently. + + _Rich._ I'll go to no lodging Boy. + + _Draw._ Whither will you go then, Sir? + + _Rich._ I'll go no farther. + + _Draw._ For Gods sake, Sir, do not stay here all night. + + _Rich._ No more I will not, Boy, lay me down, and rowle me to a Whore. + + _Uber._ And me. + + _Ped._ There spoke an-- + + _Silvio._ Then set your foot to my foot, and up tailes all. + + _Viola._ That is _Richardo_, what a noise they make! + 'Tis ill done on 'em: here, Sirs, _Richardo_? + + _Rich._ What's that Boy? + + _Draw._ 'Tis a Wench, Sir, pray Gentlemen come away. + + _Viol._ O my dear love! How doest thou? + + _Rich._ [My] sweet heart? even as thou seest. + + _Ped._ Where's thy Wench? + + _Uber._ Where's this bed worme? + + _Viol._ Speak softly for the love of heaven. + + _Draw._ Mistriss, get you gone, and do not entice the Gentlemen, now + you see they'r drunk, or I'll call the Watch, and lay you fast enough. + + _Vio._ Alas, What are you? or, What do you mean? + Sweet love, Where's the place? + + _Ric._ Marry sweet love, e'en here, lye down, I'll feese [you]. + + _Vio._ Good God! What mean you? + + _Ped._ I'll have the Wench. + + _Uber._ If you can get her. + + _Sil._ No, I'll lye with the Wench to night, and she shall be yours + to morrow. + + _Ped._ Let go the Wench. + + _Sil._ Let you go the Wench. + + _Viol._ O Gentlemen, as you had mothers! + + _Uber._ They had no mothers; they are the Sons of bitches. + + _Ric._ Let that be maintain'd. + + _Sil._ Marry then. + + _Viol._ Oh bless me heaven! + + _Uber._ How many is there on's? + + _Ric._ About five. + + _Uber._ Why then lets fight three to three. + + _Sil._ Content. [_Draw and fall down._ + + _Draw._ The Watch! the watch! the watch! Where are you? [_Exit._ + + _Ric._ Where are these Cowards? + + _Ped._ There's the W[h]ore. + + _Viol._ I never saw a drunken man before, + But these I think are so. + + _Sil._ Oh! + + _Ped._ I mist you narrowly there. + + _Viol._ My state is such, I know not how to think, + A prayer fit for me, only I could move, + That never Maiden more might be in love. [_Exit._ + + _Enter_ Drawer, Constable _and_ Watch. + + _Watch._ Where are they, Boy? + + _Draw._ Make no such haste, Sir, they are no runners. + + _Ub._ I am hurt, but that's all one, I shall light upon some of ye. + _Pedro_, thou art a tall Gentleman, let me kiss thee. + + _Watch._ My friend. + + _Uber._ Your friend? you lie. + + _Ric._ Stand further off, the watch, you are full of fleas. + + _Con._ Gentlemen, either be quiet, or we must make you quiet. + + _Rich._ Nay, good Mr. Constable, be not so Rigorous. + + _Uber._ Mr. Constable, lend me thy hand of Justice. + + _Const._ That I will Sir. + + _Uber._ Fy Mr. Constable, What golls you have! is Justice so blind + [She] cannot see to wash your hands? I cry you Mercy, Sir; + Your gloves are on. + + _Draw._ Now you are up, Sir, Will you go to bed? + + _Ped._ I'll truckle here, Boy, give me another pillow. + + _Draw._ Will you stand up, and let me lay it on then? + + _Ped._ Yes. + + _Draw._ There hold him two of ye, now they are up, be going Mr. + Constable. + + _Rich._ And this way, and that way, tom. + + _Uber._ And here away, and there away, tom. + + _Silv._ This is the right way, the others the wrong. + + _Ped._ Th' others the wrong. + + _All._ Thou art over-long at the pot, tom, tom. + + _Rich._ Lead valiantly, sweet Constable, whoop! ha Boyes. + + _Const._ This Wine hunts in their heads. + + _Rich._ Give me the bill, for I'll be the Sergeant. + + _Const._ Look to him, Sirs. + + _Rich._ Keep your Ranks, you Rascalls, keep your Ranks. [_Exeunt._ + + + + + _Actus Secundus. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter_ Mercury. + + _Mer._ I cannot sleep for thinking of this Asses Wife, I'll be gon + presently, there's no staying here, with this Devil about me; hoe, + this is the house of sleep, hoe! again there, 'sfoot, the darkness, + and this love together, will make me lunatick; ho! + + _Enter a Servingman above unready._ + + _Ser._ Who calls there? + + _Mer._ Pray take the pains to rise and light a candle. + + _Ser._ Presently. + + _Mer._ Was ever man but I in such a stocks? well, this shall be a + warning to me, and a fair one too, how I betray my self to such a + Dunce, by way of benefit. + + _Enter_ Servingman. + + _Ser._ Did you call? + + _Mer._ Yes, pray do me the kindness, Sir, to let me out, and not [to] + enquire why, for I must needs be gone. + + _Ser._ Not to night, I hope, Sir, + + _Mer._ Good Sir to night, I would not have troubled you else, pray let + it be so. + + _Ser._ Alas, Sir, my Master will be offended. + + _Mer._ That I have business? no I warrant ye. + + _Ser._ Good Sir take your rest. + + _Mer._ Pray my good friend let me appoint my own rest. + + _Ser._ Yes, Sir. + + _Mer._ Then shew me the way out, I'll consider you. + + _Ser._ Good Lord, Sir. + + _Mer._ If I had not an excellent temper'd patience, now should I break + this fellows head, and make him understand 'twere necessary; the onely + plague of this house is the unhandsome love of servants, that ne'er do + their duty in the right place, but when they muster before dinner, and + sweep the Table with a wodden dagger, and then they are troublesome + too, to all mens shoulders, the Woodcocks flesht agen, now I shall + have a new stir. + + _Enter_ Antonio. + + _Ant._ Why how now friend? What do you up so late? are you well? Do + you want any thing? pray speak. + + _Mer._ Onely the cause I rise for. + + _Ant._ What knaves are these? What do you want? why Sirrah? + + _Mer._ Nothing i'th' World, but the keyes to let me out of dores; I + must be gon, be not against it, for you cannot stay me. + + _Ant._ Be gon at this time? that were a merry jest. + + _Mer._ If there be any mirth in't, make you use on't, but I must go. + + _Ant._ Why for loves sake? + + _Mer._ 'Twill benefit your understanding nothing to know the cause, + pray go to bed, I'll trouble your Man only. + + _Ant._ Nay, Sir, you have rais'd more, that has reason to curse you, + and you knew all, my Wifes up, and coming down too. + + _Mer._ Alas, it will be a trouble, pray go up to her, and let me + disturbe no more, 'tis unmannerly. + + _Enter_ Wife _as out of her [b]ed_. + + _Ant._ Shee's here already; sweet heart: How say you by this + Gentleman? he would away at midnight. + + _Wife._ That I am sure he will not. + + _Mer._ Indeed I must. + + _Mar._ Good Sir let not your homely entertainment press you to leave + your bed at midnight; if you want, what my house or our town may + afford you, make it your own fault if you call not for it; pray go to + bed again; let me compel you, I am sure you have no power to deny a + Woman; the ayr is piercing, and to a body beaten with long travel, + 'twill prove an ill Physitian. + + _Mer._ If she speak longer I shall be a knave, as rank as ever sweat + for't; Sir, if you will send your Wife up presently, I will either + stay with you, d'ye mark me, or deliver you, so just a cause, that you + your self, shall thrust me out of dores, both suddenly, and willingly. + + _Ant._ I would fain hear that 'faith, pray thee go up sweet heart, I + have half perswaded him, besides, he hath some private business with + me. + + _Mar._ Good night, Sir, and what content you would have, I wish with + you. [_Exit._ + + _Mer._ Could any man that had a back ask more! O me! O me! + + _Ant._ Now deal directly with me: Why should you go? + + _Mer._ If you be wise do not enquire the cause, 'twill trouble you: + + _Ant._ Why? prithee why? + + _Mer._ 'Faith I would not have you know it, let me go, 'twill be far + better for you. + + _Ant._ Who's that, that knocks there? i'st not at the street door? + + _Ser._ Yes, Sir. + + _Ant._ Who's there, cannot you speak? + + _Within Vio._ A poor distressed Maid, for gods sake let me in. + + _Mer._ Let her in and me out together, 'tis but one labor, 'tis pity + she should stand i'th' street, it seems she knows you. + + _Ant._ There she shall stand for me, you are ignorant; this is a + common custome of the Rogues that lie about the loose parts of the + City. + + _Mer._ As how? + + _Ant._ To knock at doors in dead time of night, and use some feigned + voice to raise compassion, and when the doors are open, in they rush, + and cut the throats of all, and take the booty, we cannot be too + careful. + + _Within Vi._ As ever you had pity let me in, I am undone else. + + _Ant._ Who are you? + + _Vio._ My name is _Viola_, a Gentlewoman, that ill chance hath + distressed, you know my Father. + + _Mer._ Alas of god we'll let her in, 'tis one of the Gentlewomen were + here i'th' evening, I know her by her name, (poor soul) shee's cold I + warrant her, let her have my warme Bed, and I'll take her fortune; + come, pray come. + + _Ant._ It is not _Viola_, that's certain, she went home to her + Fathers, I am sure. + + _Via._ Will not you be so good to let me in? + + _Ant._ I'll be so good to have you whipt away if you stay a little + longer: Shee's gone I warrant her, now let me know your cause, for I + will hear it, and not repent the knowing. + + _Mer._ Since you are so importunate, I'll tell you, I love your Wife + extreamly. + + _Ant._ Very well. + + _Mer._ And so well that I dare not stay. + + _Ant._ Why? + + _Mer._ For wronging you, I know I am flesh and blood, and you have + done me friendships infinite and often, that must require me honest, + and a true Man, and I will be so, or I'll break my heart. + + _Ant._ Why, you may stay for all this, methinks. + + _Mer._ No, though I wood be good, I am no saint, nor is it safe to try + me, I deal plainly. + + _Ant._ Come, I dare try you, do the best you can. + + _Mer._ You shall not, when I am right agen, I'll come and see you, + till when, I'll use all Countryes, and all means, but I will lose this + folly, 'tis a Divel. + + _Ant._ Is there no way to stay you? + + _Mer._ No, unless you will have me such a villain to you, as all men + shall spit at me. + + _Ant._ Do's she know you love her? + + _Mer._ No, I hope not, that were recompence fit for a Rogue to render + her. + + _Ant._ If ever any had a faithful friend, I am that Man, and I may + glory in't, this is he, that _ipse_, he that passes all Christendome + for goodness, he shall not over goe me in his friendship, 'twere + recreant and base, and I'll be hang'd first, I am resolv'd, go thy + wayes, a Wife [shall] never part us: I have consider'd, and I find her + nothing to such a friend as thou art; I'll speak a bold world, take + your time and woe her, you have overcome me clearly, and do what's + fitting with her, you conceive me, I am glad at heart you love her: by + this light, ne're stare upon me, for I will not flye from it, if you + had spoken sooner, sure you had been serv'd; Sir, you are not every + Man, now to your taske, I give you free leave, and the sin is mine if + there be any in it. + + _Mer._ He will be hang'd before he makes this good, he cannot be so + innocent a Coxcombe, he can tell ten sure, if I had never known you as + I have done, I might be one, as others perhaps sooner, but now 'tis + impossible, there's too much good between us. + + _Ant._ Well, thou art e'en the best man--I can say no more, I am, so + over-joy'd, you must stay this night, and in the morning go as early + as you please, I have a toy for you. + + _Mer._ I thought this pill would make you sick. + + _Ant._ But where you mean to be I must have notice, + And it must be hard by too, do you mark me? + + _Mer._ Why, What's the matter? + + _Ant._ There is a thing in hand. + + _Mer._ Why? What thing? + + _Ant._ A sound one, if it take right, and you be not peevish. We two + will be--you would little think it; as famous for our friendship-- + + _Mer._ How? + + _Ant._ If [God] please, as ever _Damon_ was, and _Pytheas_; or + _Pylades_ and _Orestes_, or any two that ever were: do you conceive me + yet? + + _Mer._ No, by my troth, Sir; he will not help me up sure. + + _Ant._ You shall anon, and for our names, I think they shall live + after us, and be remember'd while there is a story; or [I] lose my + aime. + + _Mer._ What a vengeance ailes he? How do you? + + _Ant._ Yes faith, we two will be such friends, as the world shall ring + of. + + _Mer._ And why is all this? + + _Ant._ You shall enjoy my wife. + + _Mer._ Away, away. + + _Ant._ The wonder must begin, so I have cast it, 'twill be scurvy + else, you shall not stir a foot in't, pray be quiet till I have made + it perfect. + + _Mer._ What shall a Man do with this wretched fellow? there is no + mercy to be used towards him, he is not capable of any pitty, he will + in spight of course be a Cuckold, And who can help it? must it begin + so needs Sir?--think agen. + + _Ant._ Yes marry must it, and I my self will woe this woman for you, + Do you perceive it now? ha? + + _Mer._ Yes, now I have a little sight ith' matter; O that thy head + should be so monstrous, that all thy Servants hats may hang upon't! + but do you meane to do this? + + _Ant._ Yes certain, I will woe her, and for you, strive not against + it, 'tis the overthrow of the best plot that ever was then. + + _Mer._ Nay, I'll assure you, Sir, I'll do no harm, you have too much + about you of your own. + + _Ant._ Have you thought of a place yet? + + _Mer._ A place? + + _Ant._ I a place where you will bide, prethee no more of this modesty, + 'tis foolish, and we were not determin'd to be absolute friends + indeed, 'twere tolerable. + + _Mer._ I have thought, and you shall hear from me. + + _Ant._ Why, this will gain me everlasting glory; I have the better of + him, that's my comfort, good night. [_Exit._ + + _Mer._ Good night, well go thy wayes, thou art the tydiest wittall + this day I think above ground, and yet thy end for all this must be + mottly. [_Exit._ + + _Enter a_ Tinker _with a Cord, and_ Dorothy. + + _Tink._ 'Tis b[i]tter cold; a plague upon these Rogues, how wary they + are grown! not a door open now, but double barr'd; not a Window, but + up with a case of wood like a spice box, and their locks unpickable, + the very Smiths that were half venture[r]s, drink penitent, single + Ale, this is the Iron age, the Ballad sings of; well, I shall meet + with some of our loose Linnen yet, good fellows must not starve; + here's he shall shew God a mighties dog bolts, if this hold. + + _Dorothy._ Faith thou art but too merciful, that's thy fault, thou art + as sweet a Thief, that sin excepted, as ever suffer'd, that's a proud + word, and I'll maintain it. + + _Tinck._ Come, prethee let's shogg off, and browze an hour or two, + there's Ale will make a Cat speak, at the harrow, we shall get nothing + now, without we batter, 'tis grown too near morning, the Rogues sleep + sober, and are watchful. + + _Dorit._ We want a Boy extreamly for this function, kept under for a + year, with milk, and knot-grass; in my time I have seen a boy do + wonders; _Robbin_ the red Tinker had a Boy, Rest his Soul, he suffer'd + this time 4 years, for two Spoons, and a Pewter Candlestick, that + sweet Man had a Boy, as I am Curstend Whore, would have run through a + Cat hole, he would have boulted such a piece of Linen in an evening-- + + _Tinck._ Well, we will have a Boy, prethee lets go, I am vengeance + cold I tell thee. + + _Dorothy._ I'll be hang'd before I stir without some purchase, by + these ten bones, I'll turn she-ape, and untile a house, but I'll have + it, it may be I have a humor to be hang'd, I cannot tell. + + _Enter_ Viola. + + _Tinck._ Peace, you flead Whore, thou hast a mouth like a Bloodhound, + here comes a night-shade. + + _Dorit._ A Gentlewoman Whore, by this darkness I'll case her to the + skin. + + _Tinck._ Peace, I say. + + _Viola._ What fear have I endur'd this dismal night! + And what disgrace, if I were seen and known! + In which this darkness onely is my friend, + That onely has undone me; a thousand curses + Light on my easie, foolish, childish love, + That durst so lightly lay a confidence + Upon a Man, so many being false; + My weariness, and weeping, makes me sleepy, I must lie down. + + _Tinck._ What's this? a Prayer, or a Homily, or a Ballad of good + councel? she has a Gown, I am sure. + + _Dor._ Knock out her brains, and then shee'll nee'r bite. + + _Tinck._ Yes, I will knock her, but not yet, you? woman? + + _Viol._ For Gods sake what are you? + + _Tinck._ One of the groomes of your wardrobe, come, uncase, uncase; + byr Lady a good Kersey. + + _Vio._ Pray do not hurt me, Sir. + + _Dor._ Let's have no pitty, for if you do, here's that shall cut your + whistle. + + _Viol._ Alas, what would you have? I am as miserable as you can make + me any way. + + _Dor._ That shall be try'd. + + _Vio._ Here, take my Gown, if that will do you pleasure. + + _Tink._ Yes marry will it, look in the Pockets _Doll_, there may be + birds. + + _Dor._ They are flown, a pox go with them, I'll have this Hat, and + this Ruffe too, I like it, now will I flourish like a Lady, brave, + I faith boy. + + _Vio._ Y'are so gentle people to my seeming, + That by my truth I could live with you. + + _Tin._ Could you so? a pretty young round wench, well bloudded, I am + for her, Theeves. + + _Dor._ But by this I am not, coole your Codpiece, Rogue, or I'll clap + a spell upon't, shall take your edge off with a very vengeance. + + _Tin._ Peace, horse-flesh, peace, I'll cast off my Amazon, she has + walk'd too long, and is indeed notorious, shee'll fight and scould, + and drink like one of the worthies. + + _Dort._ Uds, pretious you young contagious Whore, must you be ticing? + and, Is your flesh so wranck, Sir, that two may live upon't? I am glad + to hear your Cortalls grown so lusty; he was dry founder'd t'other + day, wehee my pamper'd Jade of _Asia_. + + _Vio._ Good Woman do not hurt me, I am sorry that I have given any + cause of anger. + + _Dor._ Either bind her quickly, and come away, or by this steel I'll + [tell], though I truss for company; now could I eate her broyl'd, or + any way, without Vinegar, I must have her Nose. + + _Vio._ By any thing you love best, good Sir, good Woman. + + _Tin._ Why her Nose, _Dorothy_? + + _Dor._ If I have it not, and presently [and] warm, I lose that I go + withal. + + _Tin._ Wood the Devil had that thou goest withall, and thee together, + for sure he got thy whelps if thou hast any, shees thy deere dad, + Whore! put up your cutpurse; an I take my switch up, 'twill be a black + time with you else, sheth your bung Whore. + + _Dor._ Will you bind her? we shall stand here prating, and be hang'd + both. + + _Tin._ Come, I must bind you, not a word, no crying. + + _Vio._ Do what you will, indeed I will not cry. + + _Tin._ Hurt her not, if thou dost, by Ale and Beer, I'll clout thy old + bald brain pan, with a piece of Brass, you Bitch incarnate. + [_Exeunt_ Tinker _and_ Dorothy. + + _Viola._ O [God], to what am I reserv'd, that knew not + Through all my childish hours and actions, + More sin, than poor imagination, + And too much loving of a faithless Man? + For which I'm paid, and so, that not the day + That now is rising to protect the harmless, + And give the innocent a sanctuary + From theeves and spoilers, can deliver me + From shame, at least suspition-- + + _Enter_ Valerio. + + _Val._ Sirrah, lead down the horses easily, I'll walke a foot till I + be down the hill, 'tis very early, I shall reach home betimes. How + now, whose there? + + _Vio._ Night, that was ever friend to Lovers, yet + Has rais'd some weary Soul, that hates his bed, + To come and see me blush, and then laugh at me. + + _Val._ H'ad a rude heart that did this. + + _Vio._ Gentle Sir, + If you have that which honest men call pitty, + And be as far from evil as you shew; + Help a poor Maid, that this night by bad fortune + Has been thus us'd by Robbers. + + _Val._ A pox upon his heart that would not help thee, this Thief was + half a Lawyer by his bands, How long have you been tyed here? + + _Viol._ Alas, this hour, and with cold and fear am almost perisht. + + _Val._ Where were the watch the while? good sober Gent. they were like + careful members of the City, drawing in diligent Ale, and singing + catches, while Mr. Constable contriv'd the Tosts: these fellows would + be more severely punisht than wandring Gipsies, that every statute + whips; for if they had every one two eyes a piece more, three pots + would put them out. + + _Viol._ I cannot tell, I found no Christian to give me succor. + + _Val._ When they take a Thief, I'll take _Ostend_ agen; the whorsons + drink Opium in their Ale, and then they sleep like tops; as for their + bills, they only serve to reach down Bacon to make Rashers on; now let + me know whom I have done this courtesie too, that I may thank my early + rising for it. + + _Viol._ Sir, All I am, you see. + + _Val._ You have a name I'm sure, and a kindred, a Father, friend, or + something that must own you; shee's a handsome young Wench; What + Rogues were these to Rob her? + + _Vio._ Sir, you see all I dare reveale, + And as you are a Gentleman press me no further; + For there begins a grief, whose bitterness + Will break a stronger heart than I have in me, + And 'twill but make you heavy with the hearing, + For your own goodness sake desire it not. + + _Val._ If you would not have me enquire that, How do you live then? + + _Viol._ How I have liv'd, is still one question, + Which must not be resolv'd-- + How I desire to live, is in your liking, + So worthy an opinion I have of you. + + _Val._ Is in my liking? How I pray thee? tell me, i'faith I'll do you + any good lies in my power; she has an eye would raise a bedrid man; + come, leave your fear, and tell me, that's a good Wench. + + _Viol._ Sir, I would serve-- + + _Val._ Who would'st thou serve? do not weep and tell me. + + _Viol._ Faith, Sir, even some good woman, and such a wife if you be + married, I do imagine yours. + + _Val._ Alas! thou art young and tender, let me see thy hand, this was + ne'er made to wash, or wind up water, beat cloaths, or rub a floor, by + this light, for one use that shall be nameless, 'tis the best wanton + hand that e're I lookt on. + + _Vio._ Dare you accept me, Sir, my heart is honest, + Among your vertuous charitable deeds, + This will not be the least. + + _Val._ Thou canst in a Chamber? + + _Vio._ In a Chamber, Sir? + + _Val._ I mean wait there upon a Gentlewoman, + How quick she is, I like that mainly too; + I'll have her, though I keep her with main strength like a besieged + Town, for I know I shall have the Enemy afore me within a week. + + _Viol._ Sir, I can sow too, and make pretty laces, + Dress a head handsome, teach young Gentlewomen, + For in all these I have a little knowledge. + + _Val._ 'Tis well, no doubt I shall encrease that knowledge; I like her + better still, how she provokes me; pritty young Maid, you shall serve + a good Gentlewoman, though I say't, that will not be unwilling you + should please me, nor I forgetful if you do. + + _Viol._ I am the happier. + + _Val._ My man shall make some shift to carry you behind him, Can you + ride well? + + _Viola._ But I'll hold fast for catching of a fall. + + _Val._ That's the next way to pull another on you, I'll work her as I + go, I know shee's wax, now, now, at this time could I beget a Worthy + on this Wench. + + _Viol._ Sir, for this Gentleness, may Heaven requite you tenfold. + + _Val._ 'Tis a good Wench, however others use thee, be sure I'll be a + loving Master to thee, come. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Antonio _like an Irish Footman, with a Letter_. + + _Ant._ I hope I am wild enough, for being known, I have writ a Letter + here, and in it have abus'd my self most bitterly, yet all my fear is + not enough, for that must do it, that must lay it on, I'll win her out + i'th' flint, 'twill be more famous, now for my language. + + _Enter_ Servingman. + + _Ser._ Now, Sir, Who would you speak with? + + _Ant._ Where be thy Mastres Man? I would speak with her, + I have a Letter. + + _Ser._ Cannot I deliver it? + + _Ant._ No, by my trot, and fait, can'st thou not Man. + + _Ser._ Well, Sir, I'll call her to you, pray shake your ears without a + little. [_Exit_ Servingman. + + _Ant._ Cran a Cree do it quickly; this rebbel tonge sticks in my teeth + worse than a tough Hen, sure it was ne'er known at Babel, for they + sould no Apples, and this was made for certain at the first planting + of Orchards,'tis so crabbed. + + _Enter_ Wife, _and_ Servingman. + + _Mar._ What's he wood speak with me? + + _Ser._ A kill kenny ring, there he stands Madam. + + _Mar._ What would you have with me, friend? + + _Ant._ He has a Letter for other Women, Wilt thou read it. + + _Mar._ From whence? + + _Ant._ De Crosse creest from my Master. + + _Mar._ Who is your Master? + + _Ant._ I pray do you look. + + _Mar._ Do you know this fellow? + + _Ser._ No Maddam, not I; more than an _Irish_ Footman, stand further + friend, I do not like your roperunners, What stallion Rogues are + these, to weare such dowsetts, the very Cotton may commit adultery. + + _Mar._ I cannot find whose hand this should be, I'll read, To the + beauteous wife of _Don Antonio_, sure this is some blind scribe--well + now, What follows? + + _Ant._ Pray God it take, I have given her that, will stir her + conscience, how it works with her; hope, if it be thy will, let the + flesh have it. + + _Mar._ This is the most abhor'd, intollerable knavery, that ever slave + entertain'd, sure there is more than thine own head in this villany, + it goes like practic'd mischiefe; disabled in his body? O good God, as + I live he lies fearfully, and basely, ha? I should know that Jewel, + 'tis my husband, come hither shat, Are you an Irish Man? + + _Ant._ Sweete Woman a Cree I am an Irish man. + + _Mar._ Now I know it perfectly; is this your trick, Sir? I'll trick + you for it; How long have you serv'd this Gentleman. + + _Ant._ Please thee a little day, O my _Mac dermond_ put me to my + Mastree, 'tis don I know. + + _Mar._ By my faith he speaks as well as if he had been lousy for the + language a year or two; well, Sir, you had been better have kept your + own shape as I will use you, What have I done that should deserve this + tryal? I never made him Cuckold, to my knowledge, Sirrah come hither. + + _Ant._ Now will she send some Jewel, or some Letter, I know her mind + as well; I shall be famous. + + _Mar._ Take this Irish bawde here. + + _Ant._ How? + + _Mar._ And kick him till his breeches and breech be of one colour, a + bright blew both. + + _Ant._ I may be well swing'd thus, for I dare not reveale my self, I + hope she does not mean it, O hone, O hone, O St. _Patricke_, O a Cree, + O sweet Woman. + + _Mar._ No, turn him, and kick him o't'other side, that's well. + + _Ant._ O good waiting Man, I beseech thee good waiting man, a pox fyre + your Legs. + + _Mar._ You Rogue, you enemy to all, but little breeches, + How dar'st thou come to me with such a Letter? + + _Ant._ Prethee pitty the poor Irishman, all this makes for me, if I + win her yet, I am still more glorious. + + _Mar._ Now could I weep at what I have done, but I'll harden my heart + agen, go shut him up, 'till my husband comes home, yet thus much ere + ye go, sirrah thach'd head, Would'st not thou be whipt, and think it + Justice? well _Aquavitae_ Barrel, I will bounce you. + + _Ant._ I pray do, I beseech you be not angry. + + _Mar._ O you hobby headed Rascal, I'll have you flead, and trossers + made of thy skin to tumble in, go a way with him, let him see no sun, + till my husband come home, Sir, I shall meet with you for your + knavery, I fear it not. + + _Ant._ Wilt thou not let me go? I do not like this. + + _Mar._ Away with him. + + _Servingman._ Come, I'll lead you in by your Jack a lent hair, go + quietly, or I'll make your crupper crack. + + _Mar._ And do you hear me, Sirrah? and when you have done, make my + Coach ready. + + _Serving._ Yes forsooth. [_Exit_ Servingman _with_ Antonio. + + _Mar._ Lock him up safe enough, I'll to this Gentleman, I know the + reason of all this business, for I do suspect it, If he have this + plot, I'll ring him such a peal, shall make his eares deaf for a month + at least. [_Exit._ + + _Enter_ Richardo. + + _Ric._ Am I not mad? Can this weak temper'd head, + That will be mad with drink, endure the wrong + That I have done a Virgin, and my Love? + Be mad, for so thou ought'st, or I will beate + The walls and trees, down with thee, and will let + Either thy memory out, or madness in; + But sure I never lov'd fair _Viola_, + I never lov'd my Father, nor my Mother, + Or any thing but drink; had I had love; + Nay, had I known so much charity, + As would have sav'd an Infant from the fire, + I had been naked, raving in the street; + With halfe a face, gashing my self with knives, + Two houres ere this time. + + _Enter_ Pedro, Silvio, Uberto. + + _Ped._ Good morrow Sir. + + _Rich._ Good morrow Gentlemen, shall we go drink agen? + I have my wits. + + _Ped._ So have I, but they are unsetled ones, would I had some + porrige. + + _Rich._ The Tavern boy was here this morning with me + And told me, that there was a Gentlewoman, + Which he took for a Whore, that hung on me: + For whom we quarrel'd, and I know not what. + + _Ped._ I faith nor I. + + _Ube._ I have a glimmering of some such thing. + + _Rich._ Was it you, _Silvio_, + That made me drink so much? 'twas you or _Pedro_. + + _Ped._ I know not who. + + _Sil._ We [were] all apt enough. + + _Rich._ But I will lay the fault on none but me, + That I would be so entreated, come _Silvio_, + Shall we go drink agen, come Gentlemen, + Why do you stay, let's never leave off now, + Whil'st we have Wine, and Throats, I'll practise it, + Till I have made it my best quality; + For what is best for me to do but that? + For [Gods] sake come and drink; when I am nam'd, + Men shall make answer, Which _Richardo_ mean you? + The excellent drinker? I will have it so, + Will you go drink? + + _Silv._ We drunk too much too lately. + + _Rich._ Why there is then the less behind to drink, + Let's end it all, dispatch that, wee'l send abroad, + And purchase all the Wine the world can yield, + And then drink it off, then take the fruits o'th' earth, + Distil the Juice from them, and drink that off; + Wee'l catch the rain before it fall to ground, + And drink off that that never more may grow; + Wee'l set our mouths to Springs, and drink them off, + And all this while wee'l never think of those + That love us best, more than we did last night. + We will not give unto the poor a drop + Of all this drink, but when we see them weep, + Wee'l run to them, and drink their tears off too, + Wee'l never leave whilst there is heat or moisture, + In this large globe, but suck it cold and dry, + Till we have made it Elemental earth, + Merely by drinking. + + _Ped._ Is't flattery to tell you, you are mad? + + _Rich._ If it be false, + There's no such way to bind me to a Man; + He that will have me, lay my goods and lands, + My life down for him, need no more, but say, + _Richardo_ thou art mad, and then all these + Are at his service, then he pleases me, + And makes me think that I had vertue in me, + That I had love, and tenderness of heart, + That though I have committed such a fault, + As never creature did, yet running mad, + As honest men should do for such a crime, + I have exprest some worth, though it be late: + But I alas have none of these in me, + But keep my wits still like a frozen Man, + That had no fire within him. + + _Sil._ Nay, good _Richardo_ leave this wild talk, and send a letter to + her, I'll deliver it. + + _Rich._ 'Tis to no purpose; perhaps she's lost last night, + Or she got home agen, she's now so strictly + Look'd to, the wind can scarce come to her, or admit + She were her self; if she would hear from me, + From me unworthy, that have us'd her thus, + She were so foolish, that she were no more + To be belov'd. + + _Enter_ Andrugio _and_ Servant _with a Night-gown._ + + _Ser._ Sir, we have found this night-gown she took with her. + + [_An._ Where?] + + _Rich._ Where? where? speak quickly. + + _Ser._ Searching in the Suburbs, we found a Tinker and his Whore that + had it in a Tap-house, whom we apprehended, and they confest they + stole it from her. + + _Rich._ And murthered her? + + _Sil._ What aile you man? + + _Rich._ Why all this doth not make me mad. + + _Sil._. It does, you would not offer this else, good _Pedro_ look to + his sword. + + _Ser._ They do deny the killing of her, but swore they left her tyed + to a Tree, in the fields, next those Suburbs that are without our + Ladies gate, near day, and by the Rode, so that some passinger must + needs unty her quickly. + + _And._ The will of Heaven be done! Sir, I will only entreat you this, + that as you were the greatest occasion of her loss, that you will be + pleased to urge your friends, and be your self earnest in the search + of her; if she be found, she is yours, if she please, I my self only, + see these people better examin'd, and after follow some way in search, + God keep you Gentlemen. [_Exit._ + + _Sil._ Alas good man! + + _Ric._ What think you now of me, I think this lump + Is nothing but a piece of fleagme congeal'd + Without a soul, for where there's so much spirit + As would but warm a flea, those faults of mine + Would make it glow, and flame in this dull heart, + And run like molten gold through every sin, + Till it could burst these walls, and fly away. + Shall I intreat you all to take your horses, + And search this innocent? + + _Ped._ With all our hearts. + + _Ric._ Do not divide your selves till you come there, + Where they say she was ty'd, I'll follow too, + But never to return till she be found. + Give me my sword good _Pedro_, I will do + No harm, believe me, with it, I am now + Farr better temper'd; if I were not so, + I have enow besides, God keep you all, + And send us good success. [_Exeunt._ + + + + + _Actus Tertius. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter_ Mercury, _and_ Servant. + + _Mer._ Who is it? can you tell? + + _Ser._ By my troth, Sir, I know not, but 'tis a Gentlewoman. + + _Mer._ A Gentleman, I'll lay my life, you puppy, h'as sent his Wife to + me: if he have, fling up the bed. + + _Ser._ Here she is, Sir. + + _Enter_ Wife _with a Letter_. + + _Wife._ I am glad I found you Sir, there, take your Letter, and keep + it till you have another friend to wrong, 'tis too malicious false to + make me sin, you have provoked me to be that I love not, a talker, + and you shall hear me. + Why should you dare to imagine me + So light a huswife, that from four hours knowledge + You might presume to offer to my credit + This rude and ruffian tryal, I am sure + I never courted you, nor gave you tokens, + That might concern assurance, you are a fool. + + _Mer._ I cannot blame you now, I see this letter, + Though you be angry, yet with me you must not, + Unless you'l make me guilty of a wrong, + My worst affections hate---- + + _Wife._ Did not you send it? + + _Mer._ No, upon my faith, which is more, I understand it not; the hand + is as far from my knowledge, as the malice. + + _Wife._ This is strange. + + _Mer._ It is so, and had been stranger, and indeed more hateful, + Had I, that have receiv'd such courtesies, and owe so many + Thanks, done this base office. + + _Wife._ Your name is at it. + + _Mer._ Yes, but not my nature, and I shall hate my name worse than the + manner, for this base broking; you are wise and vertuous, remove this + fault from me; for on the love I bear to truth and goodness, this + Letter dare not name me for the author. + + _Wife._ Now I perceive my husbands knavery, if [my] man can but find + where he has been, I will goe with this Gentleman whatsoever comes + on't: and as I mean to carry it, both he and all the World shall think + it fit, and thank me for it. + + _Mer._ I must confess I loved you, at first, however this made me + leave your house unmannerly, that might provoke me to do something + ill, both to your honor and my faith, and not to write this Letter, + which I hold so truly wicked, that I will not think on't. + + _Wife._ I do believe you, and since I see you are free, my words were + not meant to you, but this is not the half of my affliction. + + _Mer._ 'Tis pitty you should know more vexation; may I enquire? + + _Wife._ Faith, Sir, I fear I have lost my husband. + + _Mer._ Your husband? it cannot be: I pitty her, how she's vext! + + _Enter_ Servant. + + _Wife._ How now? What news? nay speak, for we must know. + + _Ser._ Faith I have found at length, by chance, where he has been. + + _Wife._ Where? + + _Ser._ In a blind out-house in the Suburbs, pray God all be well with + him. + + _Wife._ Why? + + _Serv._ There are his cloaths, but, What's become of him, + I cannot yet enquire. + + _Wife._ I am glad of this; sure they have murther'd him, + What shall I do? + + _Mer._ Be not so grieved, before you know the truth, you have time + enough to weep, this is the sodain'st mischief; Did you not bring an + Officer to search there, where you say you found his cloaths. + + _Ser._ Yes, and we searcht it, and charg'd the fellow with him: but + he, like a Rogue, stubborn Rogue, made answer, he knew not where he + was; he had been there, but where he was now, he could not tell: I + tell you true, I fear him. + + _Wife._ Are all my hopes and longings to enjoy him, After this 3 years + travel, come to this? + + _Ser._ It is the rankest house in all the City, the most cursed roguy + Bawdy-house. Hell fire it. + + _Mer._ This is the worst I heard yet; Will you go home? I'll bear you + company, and give you the best help I may: this being here will wrong + you. + + _Wife._ As you are a Gentleman, and as you lov'd your dead friend, + let me not go home, that will but heap one sorrow on another. + + _Mer._ Why propose any thing and I'll perform't; I am at my wits end + too. + + _Ser._ So am I, O my dear Master! + + _Mer._ Peace you great fool. + + _Wife._ Then good Sir carry me to some retir'd place, far from the + sight of this unhappy City, whether you will indeed, so it be far + enough. + + _Mer._ If I might Councel you, I think 'twere better to go home, + And try what may be done yet, he may be at home afore you, Who + can tell? + + _Wife._ O no, I know he's dead, I know he's murder'd; tell me not of + going home, you murder me too. + + _Mer._ Well, since it pleases you to have it so, I will no more + perswade you to go home, I'll be your guide in the Countrey, as your + grief doth command me, I have a Mother dwelling from this place some + 20 miles: the house though homely, yet able to shew something like a + welcome; thither I'll see you safe with all your sorrows. + + _Wife._ With all the speed that may be thought upon; I have a Coach + here ready, good Sir quickly; I'll fit you my fine husband. + + _Mer._ It shall be so; if this fellow be dead, I see no band of any + other Man, to tye me from my will, and I will follow her with such + careful service, that she shall either be my Love, or Wife; Will you + walk in? + + _Wife._ I thank you, Sir, but one word with my Man, and I am ready; + keep the _Irish_ fellow safe, as you love your life, for he I fear has + a deep hand in this, then search agen, and get out warrants for that + naughty man, that keeps the bad house, that he may answer it, if you + find the body, give it due burial; farewel. You shall hear from me, + keep all safe. [_Exeunt._ + + _Ser._ O my sweet Master! + + Antonio _knocking within_. + + _Ant. within._ Man-a-cree, the Devil take thee, Wilt thou kill me + here? I prethee now let me goe seek my Master, I shall be very cheel + else. + + _Enter Servant._ + + _Ser._ Do you hear man-a-cree, I'll cree your coxcombe, and you keep + not still, down you rogue. + + _Ant._ Good sweet fact serving-man, let me out I beseech de, and by my + trot I will give dye Worship 2 shillings in good argott, to buy dy + Worship pippines. + + _Ser._ This rogue thinks all the worth of man consists in Peepins; by + this light I'll beat rebellion out of you for ever. + + _Ant._ Wilt thou not hear me Man? is fet; I'll give thee all I have + about me. + + _Ser._ I thank you, Sir, so I may have picking work. + + _Ant._ Here is five shillings Man. + + _Serv._ Here is a cudgel, a very good one. + + _Enter two Serving-men._ + + _2. Ser._ How now, What's the matter? Where's the _Irishman_. + + _1. Ser._ There, a wyth take him, he makes more noise alone there, + than ten Lawyers can do with double, and a scurvy Case. + + _2. Ser._ Let him out, I must talk with him. + + _Enter_ Antonio. + + _Ant._ Wilt thou give me some drink, O hone? I am very dry Man. + + _2 Ser._ You shall have that shall quench your thirst, my friend. + + _Ant._ Fate dost thou mean man. + + _2 Ser._ Even a good tough halter. + + _Ant._ A halter? O hone! + + _2 Ser._ Sirrah, you are a mischievous Rogue, that's the truth. + + _Ant._ No, fet I am not. + + _1 Ser._ Shall I knock out his brains? I have kill'd dogs have been + worth three of him for all uses. + + _2 Ser._ Sirrah, the truth on't is, you must with me to a Justice. + O _Roger, Roger_. + + _1 Ser._ Why, what's the matter _William_? + + _2 Ser._ Heavy news _Roger_, heavy newes; god comfort us. + + _1 Ser._ What is't Man? + + _Ant._ What's the matter now? I am e'en weary of this way, would I + were out on't. + + _1 Ser._ My Master sure is murder'd, _Roger_, and this cursed rogue + I fear, has had a hand in't. + + _Ant._ No fet not. + + _1 Ser._ Stand away, I'll kickt out of him: come, sirrha, mount, I'll + make you dance, you Rascal, kill my Master? If thy breech were cannon + proof, having this good cause on my side, I would encounter it; hold + fair, _Shamrocke_. + + _Ant._ Why how now Sirs? you will not murder me indeed. + + _2 Ser._ Bless us _Roger_! + + _Ant._ Nay, I am no spirit. + + _2 Ser._ How do you Sir, this is my very Master. + + _Ant._ Why well enough yet, but you have a heavy foot of your own; + Where's my Wife. + + _1 Ser._ Alas poor sorrowful Gentlewoman, she thinks you are dead, and + has given o're house-keeping. + + _Ant._ Whether is she gone then? + + _1 Ser._ Into the Countrey with the Gentleman your Friend Sir, to see + if she can wear her sorrows out there; she weeps and takes on too + too-- + + _Ant._ This falls out pat; I shall be everlasting for a name: Doe you + hear? upon your lives and faiths to me, not one word I am living, but + let the same report pass along, that I am murther'd still; I am made + for ever. + + _1 Ser._ Why Sir? + + _Ant._ I have a Cause Sir, that's enough for you; well, if I be not + famous, I am wrong'd much; for any thing I know I will not trouble + him this week at least, no, let them take their way one of another. + + _1 Ser._ Sir, Will you be still an _Irish-man_? + + _Ant._ Yes a while. + + _2 Ser._ But your Worship will be beaten no more? + + _Ant._ No, I thank you _William_. + + _1 Ser._ In truth, Sir, if it must be so, I'll do it better than a + stranger. + + _Ant._ Goe, you are Knaves both, but I forgive you, I am almost mad + with the apprehension of what I shall be, not a word I charge you. + [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Valerio, _and_ Viola. + + _Val._ Come, pretty soul, we now are near our home, + And whilst our horses are walkt down the hill, + Let thou and I walke here over this Close: + The foot-way is more pleasant, 'tis a time + My pretty one, not to be wept away, + For every living thing is full of love; + Art not thou so too? ha? + + _Vio._ Nay, there are living things empty of love, + Or I had not been here, but for my self, + Alas, I have too much. + + _Val._ It cannot be, that so much beauty, so much youth and grace + should have too much of love. + + _Vio._ Pray what is love? for I am full of that I do not know. + + _Val._ Why, love fair Maid is an extream desire, + That's not to be examin'd, but fulfill'd, + To ask the reason why thou art in love, + Or what might be the noblest end in love, + Would overthrow that kindly rising warmth, + That many times slides gently o'r the heart, + 'Twould make thee grave and staid, thy thoughts would be, + Like a thrice married Widow, full of ends, + And void of all compassion, and to fright thee + From such enquiry, whereas thou art now + Living in ignorance, mild, fresh, and sweet, + And but sixteen; the knowing what love is, + Would make thee six and forty. + + _Vio._ Would it would make me nothing, I have heard + Scholars affirm, the world's upheld by Love, + But I believe, women maintain all this, + For there's no love in men. + + _Val._ Yes, in some men. + + _Vio._ I know them not. + + _Val._ Why, there is love in me. + + _Vio._ There's charity I am sure towards me. + + _Val._ And love; which I will now express, my pretty maid, + I dare not bring thee home, my wife is foul, + And therefore envious, she is very old, + And therefore jealous: thou art fair and young. + A subject fit for her unlucky vices + No work upon, she never will endure thee. + + _Via._ She may endure + If she be ought, but Devil, all the friendship + That I will hold with you; can she endure + I should be thankful to you? may I pray + For you and her, will she be brought to think. + That all the honest industry I have, + Deserves brown bread? if this may be endur'd + She'll pick a quarrel with a sleeping child, + E'r she fall out with me. + + _Val._ But trust me, she does hate all handsomness. + + _Vio._ How fell you in love with such a creature? + + _Val._ I never lov'd her. + + _Vio._ And yet married her? + + _Val._ She was a rich one. + + _Vio._ And you swore I warrant you, she was a fair one then too. + + _Val._ Or believe me, I think I had not had her. + + _Vio._ Are you men all such? wou'd you wou'd wall us in a place + Where all we women that are innocent, + Might live together. + + _Val._ Do not weep at this, + Although I dare not for some weighty reason + Displease my Wife, yet I forget not thee. + + _Vio._ What will you do with me? + + _Val._ Thou shalt be plac'd + At my mans house, and have such food and raiment + As can be bought with money: these white hands + Shall never learn to work, but they shall play + As thou say'st they were wont, teaching the strings + To move in order, or what else thou wilt. + + _Vio._ I thank you, Sir, but pray you cloath me poorly, + And let my labor get me means to live. + + _Val._ But fair one, you, I know do so much hate + A foul ingratitude, you will not look + I should do this for nothing. + + _Vio._ I will work as much out as I can, and take as little, + That you shall have as duely paid to you + As ever servant did. + + _Vol._ But give me now a trial on't, I may believe + We are alone, shew me how thou wilt kiss + And hug me hard, when I have stolen away + From my too clamorous wife that watches me, + To spend a blessed hour or t[w]o with thee. + + _Vio._ Is this the love you mean? you would have that + Is not in me to give, you would have lust. + + _Val._ Not to dissemble, or to mince the word, + 'Tis Lust I wish indeed. + + _Vio._ And by my troth I have it not: for heavens sake use + me kindly. + Though I be good, and shew perhaps a monster, + As this world goes. + + _Val._ I do + But speak to thee, thy answers are thy own, + I compel none, but if [thou] refuse this motion, + Thou art not then for me, alas good soul; + What profit can thy work bring me? + + _Vio._ But I fear, I pray goe, for lust they say, will grow + Outragious, being deni'd, I give you thanks + For all your courtesies, and there's a Jewel + That's worth the taking, that I did preserve + Safe from the robbers, pray you leave me here + Just as you found me, a poor innocent, + And Heaven will bless you for it. + + _Val._ Pretty maid, I am no Robber, nor no Ravisher, + I pray thee keep thy Jewel, I have done + No wrong to thee, though thou beest virtuous + And in extremity, I do not know, + That I am bound to keep thee. + + _Vio._ No Sir, for gods sake, if you know an honest man in all these + Countreys, give me some directions to find him out. + + _Val._ More honest than my self, good sooth I do not know; I would + have lain with thee, with thy consent, and who would not in all these + parts, is past my memory, I am sorry for thee, farewel gentle maid, + God keep thee safe. [_Exit._ + + _Vio._ I thank you Sir, and you; + Woman they say, was only made of man, + Methinks 'tis strange they should be so unlike, + It may be all the best was cut away + To make the woman, and the naught was left + Behind with him, I'll sit me down and weep, + All things have cast me from 'em but the earth; + The evening comes, and every little flower + Droops now, as well as I. + + _Enter two Milk-maids with pails._ + + _Nan._ Good _Madge_ lets rest a little, by my troth I am weary, this + new pail is a plaguy heavy one, would _Tom_ were hang'd for choosing + it, 'tis the untoward'st fool in a Countrey. + + _Madg._ With all my heart, and I thank you too, _Nan_. + + _Vio._ What true contented happiness dwels here, + More than in Cities! wou'd to God my Father + Had liv'd like one of these, and bred me up + To milk: and do as they do: methinks + 'Tis a life that I wou'd choose, if I were now + To tell my time agen, above a Princes; maids, for charity + Give a poor wench one draught of Milk, + That weariness and hunger have nigh famish'd. + + _Nan._ If I had but one Cows Milk in all the world, you should have + some on't; there, drink more, the Cheese shall pay for it, alas poor + heart, she's drie. + + _Madge._ Do you dwell here abouts? + + _Vio._ No, would I did. + + _Nan._ _Madge_, if she does not looke like my cosin _Sue_ o'th' _Moor + lane_, as one thing can look like another-- + + _Madge._ Nay, _Sue_ has a hazle eye, I know _Sue_ well, and by your + leave, not so trim a body neither, this is a feat bodied thing I tell + you. + + _Nan._ She laces close by the mass I warrant you, and so does _Sue_ + too. + + _Vio._ I thank you for your gentleness, fair maids. + + _Nan._ Drink agen pray thee. + + _Vio._ I am satisfied, and heaven reward thee for't, yet thus far I + will compell you to accept these trifles, toys only that express my + thanks, for greater worth, I'm sure they have not in them; indeed you + shall, I found 'em as I came. + + _Nan._ _Madge_, look you here _Madge_. + + _Madg._ Nay, I have as fine a one as you, mine's all gold, and + painted, and a precious stone in't; I warrant it cost a crown wench. + + _Nan._ But mine is the most sumptuous one, that e'r I saw. + + _Vio._ One favour you must do me more, for you are well acquainted + here. + + _Nan._ Uds me, our _Dorothy_ went away but last week, and I know my + mistriss want's a maid, and why may she not be plac'd there? this is a + likely wench, I tell you truly, and a good wench I warrant her. + + _Madg._ And 'tis a hard case if we that have serv'd four years apiece, + cannot bring in one servant, we will prefer her; hark you sister, pray + what's your name. + + _Vio._ _Melvia._ + + _Nan._ A feat name i'faith; and can you milk a cow? and make a + merry-bush? that's nothing. + + _Vio._ I shall learn quickly. + + _Nan._ But be sure to keep the men out, they will mar all that you + make else, I know that by my self; for I have been So touz'd among 'em + in my days, come you shall e'en home with us, and be our fellow, our + house is so honest, and we serve a very good woman, and a Gentlewoman, + and we live as merrily, and dance a good daies after even-song: our + Wake shall be on Sunday; do you know what a Wake is? we have mighty + cheer then, and such a coil, 'twould bless ye; you must not be so + bashful, you'll spoil all. + + _Madg._ Let's home for Gods sake, my Mistriss thinks by this time we + are lost, come, we'll have a care of you, I warrant you; but you must + tell my Mistress where you were born, and every thing that belongs to + you, and the strangest things you can devise, for she loves those + extreamly, 'tis no matter whether they be true or no, she's not so + scrupulous; you must be our Sister, and love us best, and tell us + every thing, and when cold weather comes, we'll lye together, will + you do this? + + _Vio._ Yes. + + _Nan._ Then home again o' gods name, can you go apace. + + _Vio._ I warrant you. [_Exeunt._ + + + + + _Actus Quartus. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter_ Pedro _and_ Uberto, _severally_. + + _Ped._ How now, any good news yet? + + _Silvio._ Faith not any yet. + + _Ped._ This comes o' tipling; would 'twere treason and't pleas['d] + God, to drink more than three draughts at a meal. + + _Sil._ When did you see _Richardo_? + + _Ped._ I crost him twice to day. + + _Sil._ You have heard of a young wench that was seen last [night]. + + _Ped._ Yes. + + _Sil._ Has _Richard_ heard of this? + + _Ped._ Yes, and I think he's ridden after, farewel, I'll have another + round. + + _Sil._ If you hear any thing, pray spare no horse-flesh, + I'll do the like. + + _Ped._ Do. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Richardo _and_ Valerio. + + _Rich._ Sir, I did think 'twas you by all descriptions. + + _Val._ 'Tis so, + I took her up indeed, the manner how + You have heard already, and what she had about her, + As Jewels, Gold, and other trifling things: + And what my end was, which because she slighted, + I left her there i'th' fields. + + _Rich._ Left i'th' fields? could any but a Rogue + That had despis'd humanity and goodness, + [God,] law and credit; and had set himself + To lose his noblest part, and be a beast, + Have left so innocent unmatch'd a virtue, + To the rude mercy of a wilderness? + + _Val._ Sir, if you come to rail, pray quit my house, + I do not use to have such language given + Within my doors to me; for your wench, + You may go seek her with more patience, + She's tame enough, I warrant you. + + _Rich._ Pray forgive me. + I do confess my much forgetfulness; + And weigh my words no farther, I beseech you, + Then a mere madness, for such a grief has seiz'd me + So strong and deadly, as a punishment, + And a just one too, + That 'tis a greater wonder I am living, + Than any thing I utter; yet let me tell you thus much, + 'Twas a fault for leaving her + So in the fields. + + _Val._ Sir, I will think so now, and credit me, + You have so wrought me with your grief, that I + Do both forgive and pity you: + And if you'll please to take a bed this night here; + To morrow I'll bring you where I left her. + + _Rich._ I thank you, [no,] shall I be so unworthy: + To think upon a bed, or ease, or comfort, + And have my heart stray from me, God knows where, + Cold and forsaken, destitute of friends, + And all good comforts else, unless some tree + Whose speechless charity must better ours, + With which the bitter east winds made their sport + And sung through hourly, hath invited her + To keep off half a day? shall she be thus, + And I draw in soft slumbers? _God_ forbid. + No, night and bitter coldness, I provoke thee, + And all the dews that hang upon thy locks, + Showrs, Hails, Snows, Frosts, and two edged Winds that prime + The maiden blossoms, I provoke you all, + And dare expose this body to your sharpness, + Till I be made a Land-mark. + + _Val._ Will you then stay and eat with me? + + _Rich._ Y'are angry with me, I know y'are angry, + You would not bid me eat else; my poor Mistriss, + For ought I know thou'rt famish'd, for what else + Can the fields yield thee, and the stubborn season, + That yet holds in the fruit? good gentle Sir, + Think not ill manners in me for denying + Your offer'd meat, for sure I cannot eat + While I do think she wants; well I'm a rascal; + A villain, slave, that only was begotten, + To murder women, and of them the best. + + _Val._ This is a strange affliction. + If you'll accept no greater courtesie, yet drink Sir. + + _Ric._ Now I am sure you hate me, and you knew + What kind of man I am, as indeed 'tis fit, + That every man should know me to avoid me. + If you have peace within you, Sir, or goodness + Name that abhord word - Drink, no more unto me, + You had safer strike me. + I pray you do not, if you love me do not. + + _Val._ Sir, I mean no ill by it. + + _Ric._ It may be so, + Nor let me see + None Sir, if you love heaven; + You know not what offence it is unto me, + Nor good now do not ask me why: + And I warn you once again, let no man else speak of't, + I fear your servants will be prating to me. + + _Val._ Why Sir, what ail you? + + _Rich._ I hate drink, there's the end on't, + And that man that drinks with meat is damn'd + Without an age of prayers and repentance, + And there's a hazard too; good Sir, no more + If you will do me a free courtesie; + That I shall know for one: go take your horse, + And bring me to the place where you left her: + + _Val._ Since you are so impo[r]tunate, I will; + But I will wish Sir, you had staid to night + Upon my credit you shall see no drink. + + _Rich._ Be gone, the hearing of it makes me giddy, + Sir, will you be intreated to forbear it, + I shall be mad else. + + _Val._ I pray no more of that, I am quiet, + I'll but walk in, and away straight. + + _Rich._ Now I thank you, + But what you do, do in a twinkling, Sir. + + _Val._ As soon as may be. [_Exit._ + + _Enter Mother_, Viola, _and two Milk-maids_. + + _Moth._ Is this the wench you have brought me? some catch I warrant. + How daringly she looks upon the matter! + + _Madge._ Yes forsooth, this is the maiden. + + _Moth._ Come hither, wou'd you serve? + + _Vio._ If it shall please you to accept my service, I hope I shall do + something that shall like you, though it be but truth, and often + praying for you. + + _Moth._ You are very curious of your hand methinks, + You preserve it so with gloves, let me see it; + I marry, here's a hand of march-pane, wenches, + This pretty palme never knew sorrow yet; + How soft it is I warrant you, and supple: + O' my word, this is fitter for a pocket to filch withal + Than to [work], I fear me little one, + You are no better than you should be; goe to. + + _Vio._ My Conscience yet is but one witness to me, + And that heaven knows, is of mine innocence, + 'Tis true, I must confess with shame enough, + The time that I have led, yet never taught me + What 'twas to break a sleep, or to be weary. + + _Moth._ You can say well: if you be mine, wench, you must doe well + too, for words are but slow workers, yet so much hope I have of you, + that I'll take you, so you'll be diligent, and do your duty: how now? + + _Enter_ Alexander. + + _Alex._ There is a messenger come from your son, + That brings you word he is return'd from travel, + And will be here this night. + + _Moth._ Now joy upon thee for it, thou art ever + A bringer of good tidings, there, drink that: + In troth thou hast much contented me, my Son! + Lord how thou hast pleas'd me, shall I see my Son + Yet e'r I dye? take care my house be handsome, + And the new stools set out, and boughs and rushes, + And flowers for the window, and the _Turky_ Carpet, + And the great parcel Salt, _Nan_, with the Cruets, + And prethee _Alexander_ goe to the Cook, + And bid him spare for nothing, my son's come home, + Who's come with him? + + _Alex._ I hear of none yet, but a Gentlewoman. + + _Moth._ A Gentlewoman? what Gentlewoman? + + _Alex._ I know not, but such a one there is, he says. + + _Moth._ Pray God he have not cast away himself + Upon some snout-fair piece, I do not like it. + + _Alex._ No sure, my Master has more discretion. + + _Moth._ [Well,] be it how it will, he shall be welcome. + Sirs to your tasks, and shew this little novice + How to bestir her self, I'll sort out things. [_Exit._ + + _Madge._ We will forsooth, I can tell you, my Mistriss is a stirring + woman. + + _Nan._ Lord how she'll talk sometimes! 'tis the maddest cricket-- + + _Vio._ Methinks she talks well, and shews a great deal of good + huswivery, pray let me deck the chambers, shall I? + + _Nan._ Yes, you shall, but do not scorn to be advis'd, Sister, for + there belongs more to that, than you are aware on; why [w]ould you + venture so fondly upon the strowings? there's mighty matters in them + I'll assure you, and in the spreading of a bough-pot, you may miss, if + you were ten years elder, if you take not a special care before you. + + _Vio._ I will learn willingly, if that be all. + + _Nan._ Sirrah where is't they say my young Master hath been? + + _Madg._ Faith I know not, beyond the Sea, where they are born without + noses. + + _Nan._ [Jesse blesse] us! without noses? how do they do for + handkerchiefs? + + _Madg._ So _Richard_ says, and sirrah, their feet stand in their + foreheads. + + _Nan._ That's fine by my troth, these men have pestilent running heads + then; do they speak as we do? + + _Mag._ No, they never speak. + + _Nan._ Are they cursend? + + _Mag._ No, they call them Infidels, I know not what they are. + + _Nan._ Sirrah, we shall have fine courting now my young master is come + home, were you never courted Sister? + + _Vio._ Alas, I know it not. + + _Mag._ What is that courting, sirrah? + + _Nan._ I can tell, for I was once courted in the matted chamber, you + know the party _Madge_, faith he courted finely. + + _Madg._ Pray thee what is't? + + _Na[n]._ Faith, nothing but he was somewhat figent with me, faith 'tis + fine sport, this courting. + + _Alex. within._ Where be the Maids there? + + _Madg._ We shall be hang'd anon, away good wenches, and have a care + you dight things handsomly, I will look over you. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Mercury _and_ Maria. + + _Mer._ If your sorrow will give you so far leave, pray think your self + most welcome to this place, for so upon my life you are, and for your + own fair sake, take truce awhile with these immoderate mournings. + + _Wife._ I thank you Sir, I shall doe what I may; + Pray lead me to a chamber. + + _Enter Mother and_ Alexander. + + _Mer._ Presently, + Before your blessing Mother, I intreat ye + To know this Gentlewoman, and bid her welcome, + The virtuous wife of him that was my self + In all my travels. + + _Moth._ Indeed she is most welcome, so are you son [_kneel._ + Now all my blessing on thee; thou hast made me + Younger by 20 years, than I was yesterday, + Will you walk in? what ails this Gentlewoman? + Alas, I fear she is not well, good Gen[t]lewoman. + + _Mer._ You fear right. + + _Moth._ She has fasted over long, + You shall have supper presently o'th' board. + + _Mer._ She will not eat; I can assure you Mother, + For Gods sake let your Maid conduct her up + Into some fair becoming Chamber + Fit for a woman of her Being, and + As soon as may be, + I know she's very ill, and wou'd have rest. + + _Moth._ There is one ready for her, the blew chamber. + + _Mer._ 'Tis well, I'll lead you to your chamber door + And there I'll leave you to your quiet, Mistriss. + + _Wife._ I thank you, Sir, good rest to every one, + You'll see me once again to night, I hope. [_Exit._ + + _Mer._ When you shall please, I'll wait upon you, Lady. + + _Moth._ Where are these maids, attend upon the Gentlewoman, and see + she want no good thing in the house? goodnight with all my heart + forsooth, good Lord how you are grown, is he not _Alexander_? + + _Alex._ Yes truly, he's shot up finely, God be thanked. + + _Mer._ An ill weed, Mother, will do so. + + _Alex._ You say true, Sir, an ill weed grows apace. + + _Mer._ _Alexander_ the sharp, you take [me] very quickly. + + _Moth._ Nay, I can tell you, _Alexander_ will do it, do you read + madcap still? + + _Alex._ Sometimes forsooth. + + _Moth._ But faith Son, what Countreys have you travell'd? + + _Mer._ Why many, Mother, as they lay before me, _France_, _Spain_, + _Italy_ and _Germany_, and other Provinces that I am sure, you are not + better'd by, when you hear of them. + + _Moth._ And can you these tongues perfectly? + + _Mer._ Of some a little, Mother. + + _Moth._ Pray spout some _French_ Son. + + _Mer._ You understand it not, and to your ears 'twill goe like an + unshod cart upon the stones, only a rough unhandsome sound. + + _Moth._ [Faith] I would fain hear some _French_. + + _Alex._ Good Sir, speak some _French_ to my Mistriss. + + _Mer._ At your intreaty _Alexander_, I will, who shall I speak to? + + _Alex._ If your worship will do me the favour Sir, to me. + + _Mer._ _Mounseir_, _Poultron_, _Coukew_, _Cullione_, _Besay_, _Man + cur_. + + _Alex._ _Awe Mounseir._ + + _Moth._ Ha, ha, ha, this fine indeed, gods blessing 'on thy heart Son, + by my troth thou art grown a proper Gentleman, cullen and pullen, + good god what [saucey] words they use beyond the seas, ha, ha, ha! + + _Alex._ Did not [you sweare] right. + + _Mer._ Yes good _Alexander_, if you had done so too, + But good Mother, I am very hungry, and have rid far to day, and am + fasting. + + _Moth._ You shall have your supper presently, my sweet Son. + + _Mer._ As soon as you please, which once ended, + I'll go and visit yo[n] sick Gentlewoman. + + _Moth._ Come then. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter_ Antonio _like a Post, with a Letter_. + + _Ant._ I have ridden like a fury, to make up this work, and I will do + it bravely, e'r I leave it; this is the house I am sure. + + _Enter_ Alexander. + + _Alex._ Who wou'd you speak with, Sir? + + _Ant._ Marry Sir, I would speak with a Gentlewoman, came this night + late here from the City, I have some Letters of importance to her, + I am a Post Sir, and would be dispa[t]ch'd in haste. + + _Alex._ Sir, cannot I deliver 'em? for the truth is, she's ill, and + in her chamber. + + _Ant._ Pray pardon me, I must needs speak with her, my business is so + weighty. + + _Alex._ I'll tell her so, and bring you present word. + + _Ant._ Pray do so, and I'll attend her, pray god the grief of my + imagined death, spoil not what I intend, I hope it will not. + + _Alex._ Though she be very ill, and desires no trouble, + Yet if your business be so urgent, you may come up and speak with her. + + _Ant._ I thank you Sir, I follow you. [_Exit_ Alex. + + _Enter Wife._ + + _Wife._ What should this fellow be i'th' name of Heaven, that comes + with such post business? sure my Husband hath reveal'd himself, and in + this haste sent after me, are you the Post my friend? + + _Enter_ Anto[n]io. + + _Ant._ Yes forsooth Mistriss. + + _Wife._ What good news hast thou brought me gentle Post? + For I have woe and grief too much already. + + _Ant._ I would you had less, Mistriss, I could wish it, beshrew my + heart she moves me cruelly. + + _Wife._ Have I found you once more Jugler? well Jewel, thou hast only + virtue in thee, of all I read of yet; what ears has this ass to betray + him with? well, what's your business then? + + _Ant._ I have brought a Letter from your servant, Mistriss, in haste. + + _Wife._ Pray give it me, I hope the best still. + + _Ant._ This is the upshot, and I know I have hit it, + Well, if the spirits of the dead do walk, I shall + Hear more of this one hundred years hence. + + _Wife._ By any means you must have special care, for now the City is + possest for certain, my Master is made away, which for ought I know is + [a] truth indeed; good Mistriss leave your grief, and see your danger, + and let that wise and noble Gentleman with whom you are, be your right + hand in all things. + + _Ant._ Now do I know I have the better on't, by the languishing of her + eye at this near instant, 'tis still simming in her blood, in coyning + somewhat to turn _Mercury_, I know it. + + _Wife._ He is my Husband, and 'tis reasonable he should command in all + things, since he will be an ass against the hair, at his own peril be + it, in the morn you shall have a pacquet, till when, I must intreat + you stay, you shall not lose by it. + + _Ant._ I do not doubt it, Mistriss; I'll leave you to your rest, and + wait your pleasure. + + _Wife._ Do, and seek out the Gentleman of the house, bid him come to + me presently. + + _Ant._ Who, Mr. _Mercury_? + + _Wife._ Do you know him, Post? + + _Ant._ Only by sight forsooth, now I remember your servant will'd me + to let you know he is the only man, you [and] your fortunes, are now + to rest upon. + + _Wife._ Prethee no more, I know all this already. + + _Ant._ I'll take my leave now, I am made for ever. [_Exit._ + + _Wife._ Good night, I am provided for you, my fine youth. [_Exit._ + + _Enter Mother, beating_ Viola, Alexander _with a broken Glass_. + + _Mother._ I'll make thee have more care. + + _Viola._ Good Mistriss pardon me. + + _Moth._ Thou'lt ne'r be good I warrant thee, can your fine fingers + hold no faster? + + _Viola._ Indeed it was against my will. + + _Moth._ _Alexander_, let's see the glass, as I am true kirsome woman, + it is one of the chrystal glasses my Cosin sent me, and the baggage + hath broke it where it cannot be mended, _Alexander_, can _Humphrey_ + mend this think you? + + _Alex._ No truly, this will ne'er be mended. + + _Vio._ Truly I meant but to wash it for the Gentlewoman that is sick + above, and shaking out the water, knockt it against the pail side. + + _Moth._ Did you so? be sure I'll stop it, 'twill make a good gap in + your quarters wages, I can tell you. + + _Viola._ I pray forgive me, and let me have no wages this first + quarter. + + _Moth._ Go whimling, and fetch two or three grating loaves out of the + Kitching, to make Ginger-bread of, 'tis such an untoward thing. + [_Exit_ Viola. + + _Alex._ She's somewhat simple indeed, she knew not what a kimnel was, + she wants good nurture mightily. + + _Moth._ My Son tells me, _Alexander_, that this young widow means to + sojourn here, she offers largely for her board, I may offer her good + cheer, prethee make a step i'th' morning down to the Parsonage for + some Pigeons; what are you mad there? what noise is that? are you at + bowls within? why do you whine? + + _Enter_ Viola _weeping_. + + _Vio._ I have done another fault, I beseech you sweet Mistriss forgive + me. + + _Moth._ What's the matter? + + _Vio._ As I was reaching for the bread that lay upon the shelf, I have + thrown down the minc'd meat, that should have made the pies to morrow. + + _Moth._ Get thee out of my house, thou filthy destroying Harlot, thou, + I'll not keep thee an hour longer. + + _Vio._ Good Mistriss, beat me rather for my fault, as much as it + deserves, I do not know whither to go. + + _Moth._ No I warrant thee, out of my doors. + + _Vio._ Indeed I'll mend, I pray speak you for me. + + _Alex._ If thou hadst hurl'd down any thing but the Pie-meat, I would + have spoke for thee, but I cannot find in my heart now. + + _Moth._ Art thou here yet? I think I must have an Officer to thrust + thee out of my doors, must I? + + _Vio._ Why, you may stop this in my wages too, + For God's sake do, I'll find my self this year; + And let me stay. + + _Mer._ Thou't spoil ten times as much, I'll cudgel thee out of my + doors. + + _Vio._ I am assur'd you are more merciful, + Than thus to beat me and discharge me too. + + _Moth._ Dost thou dispute with me, _Alexander_ carry the prating + hilding forth. + + _Vio._ Good Mistriss hear me, I have here a Jewel, + My Mother left me, and 'tis something worth: + Receive it, and when all my faults together + Come to the worth of that, then turn me forth, + Till then I pray you keep me. + + _Moth._ What giggombob have we here? pray god you have not pilfred + this somewhere, th'art such a puling thing, wipe your eyes, and rise, + go your ways, _Alexander_, bid the Cook mince some more meat, come, + and get you to bed quickly, that you may up betime i'th' morning a + milking, or you and I shall fall out worse yet. + [_Exit Moth, and_ Alex. + + _Vio._ She has hurt my arm; I am afraid she is a very angry woman, but + bless him heaven that did me the most wrong, I am afraid _Antonio's_ + wife should see me, she will know me. + + _Mother within._ _Melvia._ + + _Vio._ I am coming, she's not angry agen I hope. [_Exit._ + + _Enter_ Mercury. + + _Mer._ Now what am I the better for enjoying + This woman that I lov'd so? all I find, + That I before imagined to be happy: + Now I have done, it turns to nothing else + But a poor pitied, and a base repentance, + Udsfoot, I am monstrous angry with my self: + Why should a man that has discourse and reason, + And knows how near he loses all in these things, + Covet to have his wishes satisfied; + Which when they are, are nothing but the shame + I do begin to loath this woman strangely, + And I think justly too, that durst adventure, + Flinging away her modesty to take + A stranger to her bed, her Husbands body + Being scarce cold in the earth for her content, + It was no more to take my senses with + Than if I had an idle dream in sleep + Yet I have made her promises: which grieves me, + And I must keep 'em too, I think she hunts me: + The devil cannot keep these women off, + When they are fletched once. + + _Enter Wife in night attire._ + + _Wife._ To bed for gods sake Sir, why do you stay here? + Some are up i'th' house, I heard the wife, + Good dear sweet-heart to bed. + + _Mer._ Why, I am going! why do you follow me? + You would not have it known I hope, pray get you + Back to your chamber, the doors hard by for me, + Let me alone, I warrant you this it is + To thresh well, I have got a customer, + Will you go to bed? + + _Wife._ Will you? + + _Mer._ Yes, I am going. + + _Wife._ Then remember your promise you made to marry me. + + _Mer._ I will, but it was your fault, that it came + To this pinch now, that it must need remembrance: + For out of honesty I offer'd you + To marry you first, why did you slack that offer? + + _Wife._ Alas I told you the inconvenience of it, + And what wrong it would appear to the world + If I had married [you] in such post-haste + After his death: beside, the foolish people + Would have been bold to have thought we had lain together + in his time, and like enough imagin'd + We two had murther'd him. + + _Mer._ I love her tongue yet, + If I were a Saint + A gilded Saint, and such a thing as this + Should prate thus wittily and feelingly + Unto my Holiness, I cannot tell, + But I fear shrewdly I should do something + That would quite scratch me out o'th' Kalender, + And if I stay longer talking with her, + Though I am mad at what I have done already, + Yet I shall forget my self again; + I feel the Devil + Ready to hold my stirrop; pray to bed, good night. + + _Wife._ This kiss, good night sweet Love, + And peace goe with thee: thou hast prov'd thy self + The honestest man that ever was entic'd + To that sweet sin as people please to call it, + Of lying with anothers wife, and I, + I think the honestest woman without blushing, + That ever lay with another man, I sent my Husband + Into a Cellar, post, fearing, and justly + He should have known him, which I did not purpose + Till I had had my end. + Well, now this plot is perfect, let him brag on't. [_Exit._ + + + + + _Actus Quintus. Scaena Prima._ + + + _Enter Justice and_ Curio _with a Paper_. + + _Just._ Birlady Sir, you have rid hard that you have. + + _Cur._ They that have business, must do so, I take it. + + _Just._ You say true, when set you out my friend? + + _Cur._ About ten a clock, and I have rid all night. + + _Just._ By the mass you are tough indeed, I have seen the day, I would + have rid too with the proudest of them, and fling dirt in their faces, + and I have don't with this foolish boy, Sir, many a time; but what can + last always? 'tis done, 'tis done now, Sir, age, care, and office, + brings us to our footcloaths, the more the pity. + + _Curio._ I believe that, Sir, but will it please you to read the + business? + + _Just._ My friend, I can read, and I can tell you when. + + _Cur._ Would I could too Sir, for my haste requires it. + + _Just._ Whence comes it do you say? + + _Cur._ Sir from the City. + + _Just._ Oh from the City, 'tis a reverent place. + + _Curio._ And his justice be as short as his memory, + A Dudgion Dagger will serve him to mow down sin withal, + What clod-pole Commissioner is this? + + _Just._ And by my faith, govern'd by worthy members, + Discreet and upright. + + _Cur._ Sir, they are beholding to you, you have given some of them a + commendations, they were not worthy of this twenty years. + + _Just._ Go to, go to, you have a merry meaning, I have found you Sir, + i' faith, you are a wag, away, fie now I'll read Your Letter. + + _Cur._ Pray do Sir; what a misery 'tis + To have an urgent business wait the Justice + Of such an old Tuff-taffata that knows not, + Nor can be brought to understand more sence, + Than how to restore supprest Alehouses, + And have his man compound small trespasses, + For ten groats. + + _Just._ Sir, it seems here your business is of a deeper circumstance + than I conceiv'd it for; what do you mean, Sir? + + _Cur._ 'Tis for mine own ease I'll assure your Worship. + + _Just._ It shall not be i' faith friend, here I have it, + That one _Antonio_ a Gentleman, I take it so, + Yes, it is so, a Gentleman is lately thought to + Have been made away, and by my faith, upon a + Pearls ground too, if you consider; well, there's + Knavery in't, I see that without spectacles. + + _Cur._ Sure this fellow deals in revelation, he's so hidden, + Goe thy ways, thou wilt stick a bench spit as formally, + And shew thy Agot, and hatch'd chain + As well as the best of them. + + _Just._ And now I have consider'd, I believe it. + + _Cur._ What Sir? + + _Just._ That he was murdered. + + _Cur._ Did you know him? + + _Just._ No. + + _Cur._ Nor how it is suppos'd. + + _Just._ No, nor I care not two-pence, those are toys and yet I verily + believe he was murdered, as sure as I believe thou art a man, I never + fail'd in these things yet, w'are a man that's beaten to these + matters, experience is a certain conceal'd thing that fails not: pray + let me ask you one thing, why do you come to me? + + _Cur._ Because the Letter is addrest to you, being the nearest + Justice. + + _Just._ The nearest? is that all? + + _Cur._ I think it be Sir, I would be loth you should be the wisest. + + _Just._ Well Sir, as it is, I will endeavour in it; yet if it had come + to me by name, I know not, but I think it had been as soon dispatcht + as by another, and with as round a wisdom, I, and as happily, but + that's all one: I have born this place this thirty years, and upwards, + and with sufficient credit, and they may when they please, know me + better; to the nearest? well. + + _Cur._ Sir, it is not my fault, for had I known you sooner-- + + _Just._ I thank you Sir, I know it. + + _Cur._ I'll be sworn you should have plaid for [any] business now. + + _Just._ And further, they have specified unto me, his Wife is sorely + suspected in this matter, as a main cause. + + _Cur._ I think she be Sir, for no other cause can be yet found. + + _Just._ And one _Mercury_ a traveller, with whom they say directly she + is run away, and as they think this way. + + _Cur._ I knew all this before. + + _Just._ Well Sir, this _Mercury_ I know, and his breeding, a neighbors + child hard by, you have been happy, Sir, in coming hither. + + _Cur._ Then you know where to have him, Sir? + + _Just._ I do Sir, he dwells near me. + + _Cur._ I doubt your Worship dwels near a knave then. + + _Just._ I think so; pray put on: but 'tis a wonder + To see how graceless people are now given, + And how base virtue is accounted with them + That should be all in all, as says a wise man. + + I tell you Sir, and it is true, that there have been such murthers, + and of late days, as 'twould make your very heart bleed in you, and + some of them as I shall be enabled, I will tell you, it fell out of + late days. + + _Cur._ It may be so, but will it please you to proceed in this? + + _Just._ An honest Weaver, and as good a workman, as e'er shot shuttle, + and as close: but every man must dye; this honest Weaver being a + little mellow in his Ale, that was the evidence _verbatim_, Sir, God + bless the mark, sprung his neck just in this place: well _Jarvis_, + thou hadst wrongs, and if I live some of the best shall sweat for't, + then a wench-- + + _Cur._ But Sir, you have forgot my business. + + _Just._ A sober pretty maid about 17, they say, certainly, howsoever + 'tis shuffled, she burst her self, and fondly, if it be so, with + Furmety at a Churching, but I think the Devil had another agent in't: + either of which, if I can catch, shall stretch for't. + + _Cur._ This is a mad Justice that will hang the Devil; but I would you + would be short in this, before that other notice can be given. + + _Just._ Sir, I will doe discreetly what is fitting; what, _Antonio_? + + _Ant. within._ Your Worship. + + _Just._ Put on your best coat, and let your fellow _Mark_ goe to the + Constable, and bid him aid me with all the speed he can, and all the + power, and provide Pen and Ink to take their confessions, and my long + sword: I cannot tell what danger we may meet with; you'll go with us? + + _Cur._ Yes, what else? I came to that end to accuse both parties. + + _Just._ May I crave what you are? + + _Cur._ Faith Sir, one that to be known would not profit you, more than + a near kinsman of the dead _Antonio's_. + + _Just._ 'Tis well, I am sorry for my neighbor, truly, that he had no + more grace, 'twill kill his Mother; she's a good old woman, will you + walk in? I'll but put my cloak on, and my chain off, and a clean band, + and have my shooes blackt over, and shift my Jerkin, and we'll to our + business, and you shall see how I can bolt these matters. + + _Cur._ As soon as't please you, Sir. [_Exit._ + + _Enter_ Valerio, _and_ Richardo. + + _Val._ This is the place; here did I leave the Maid + Alone last night, drying her tender eyes, + Uncertain what to do, and yet desirous + To have me gone. + + _Rich._ How rude are all we men, + That take the name of _Civil_ to our selves! + If she had set her foot upon an earth + Where people live that we call barbarous; + Though they had had no house to bring her to, + They would have spoil'd the glory, that the spring + Has deckt the trees in, and with willing hands + Have torn their branches down, and every man + Would have become a builder for her sake. + What time left you her there? + + _Val._ I left her, when the Sun had so much to sett, + As he is now got from his place of rise. + + _Rich._ So near the night she could not wander far; + Fair _Viola_! + + _Val._ It is in vain to call, she sought a house + Without all question. + + _Rich._ Peace, fair _Viola_? + Fair _Viola_? who should have left her here + On such a ground? if you had meant to lose her, + You might have found there were no ecchos here + To take her name, and carry it about, + When her true Lover came to mourn for her, + Till all the neighboring valleys and the hills, + Resounded _Viola_,-- + And such a place, + You should have chose-- + You pity us because + The dew a little wets our feet, + Unworthy far to seek her in the wet; + And what becomes of her? where wandred she, + With two showers raining on her, from her eyes + Continually, abundantly, from which + There's neither tree nor house to shelter her; + Will you go with me to travel? + + _Val._ Whither? + + _Rich._ Over all the world. + + _Val._ No by my faith, I'll make a shorter journey + When I do travel. + + _Rich._ But there's no hope + To gain my end in any shorter way. + + _Val._ Why, what's your end? + + _Rich._ It is to search the earth, + Till we have found two in the shapes of men, + As wicked as our selves. + + _Val._ 'Twere not so hard to find out those. + + _Rich._ Why, if we find them out, + It were the better, for what brave villany, + Might we four do? we wou'd not keep together: + For every one has treachery enough + For twenty countreys, one should trouble _Asia_, + Another should sow strife in _Africa_; + But you should play the knave, in at home in _Europe_, + And for _America_ let me alone. + + _Val._ Sir, I am honester, + Than you know how to be, and can no more + Be wrong'd, but I shall find my self aright. + + _Rich._ If you had any spark of honesty, + You would not think that honester than I, + Were a praise high enough to serve your turn: + If men were commonly so bad as I, + Thieves would be put in Calendars for Saints; + And bones of murderers would work miracles. + I am a kind of knave, of knave so much + There is betwixt me, and the vilest else-- + But the next place of all to mine is yours. + + _Enter two Milk-maids and_ Viola _with pails_. + + _Val._ That last is she, 'tis she. + + _Rich._ Let us away, we shall infect her, let her have the wind, + And we will kneel down here. + + _Vio._ Wenches away, for here are men. + + _Val._ Fair maid, I pray you stay. + + _Vio._ Alas, agen? + + _Rich._ Why do you lay hold on her? I pray heartily let her go. + + _Val._ With all my heart, I do not mean to hurt her. + + _Rich._ But stand away then for the purest bodies + Will soonest take infection, stand away, + But for infecting her my self, by heaven, + I would come there, and beat thee further off. + + _Vio._ I know that voice and face. + + _Val._ You are finely mad, g[o]dbwy Sir, now you are here together, + I'll leave [y]ou so, god send you good luck, both; when you are + soberer, you'll give me thanks. [_Exit._ + + _Madg._ Wilt thou go milk? come. + + _Nan._ Why dost not come? + + _Madge._ She nods, she's asleep. + + _Nan._ What wert up so early? + + _Madge._ I think yon man's mad to kneel there, nay [come] away, uds + body, _Nan_, help, she looks black i'th face, She's in a sound. + + _Nan._ And you be a man, come hither, and help a woman. + + _Rich._ Come thither? you are a fool. + + _Nan._ And you a knave and a beast that you are. + + _Rich._ Come hither, 'twas my being now so near, + That made [her] swound, and you are wicked people, + Or you wou'd do so too; my venom eyes + Strike innocency dead at such a distance, + Here I'll kneel, for this is out of distance. + + _Nan._ Th'art a prating ass, there's no goodness in thee, + I warrant, how dost thou? + + _Vio._ Why? well. + + _Madge._ Art thou able to go? + + _Vio._ No, pray go you and milk, if I be able to come + I'll follow you, if not, Til sit here, + Till you come back. + + _Nan._ I am loth to leave thee here with yon wild fool. + + _Vio._ I know him well, I warrant thee he will not hurt me. + + _Madge._ Come then _Nan_. [_Exeunt Maids._ + + _Rich._ How do you? be not fearfull, for I hold my hands + Before my mouth, and speak, and so + My breath can never blast you. + + _Vio._ 'Twas enough to use me ill, though you had never sought me to + mock me, why kneel you so far off, were not that gesture better us'd + in prayer, had I dealt so with you, I should not sleep, till [God] and + you had both forgiven me. + + _Rich._ I do not mock, nor lives there such a villain + That can do any thing contemptible + To you, but I do kneel, because it is + An action very fit and reverent, + In presence of so pure a creature, + And so far off, as fearful to offend, + One too much wrong'd already. + + _Vio._ You confess you did the fault, yet scorn to come, + So far as hither, to ask pardon for't; + Which I could willingly afford to come, + To you to grant, good Sir if you have + A better love, may you be blest together. + She shall not wish you better than I will, + I but offend you, there are all the Jewels + I stole, and all the love I ever had, + I leave behind with you, I'll carry none + To give another may the next maid you try + Love you no worse, nor be no worse than I. + + _Rich._ Do not leave me yet for all my fault, + Search out the next things to impossible, + And put me on them when they are effected, + I may with better modesty receive + Forgiveness from you. + + _Vio._ I will set no pennance, + To gain the great forgiveness you desire: + But to come hither and take me and it, + Or else I'll come and beg, so you will grant, + That you will be content to be forgiven. + + _Rich._ Nay, I will come since you [will] have it so, + And since you please to pardon me I hope + Free from infection, here I am by you; + A careless man, a breaker of my faith, + A lothsome drunkard; and in that wild fury: + A hunter after whores: I do beseech you, + To pardon all these faults, and take me up + An honest, sober, and a faithful man. + + _Vio._ For [gods] sake, urge your faults no more, but mend, + All the forgiveness I can make you, is, + To love you, which I will do, and desire + Nothing but love again, which if I have not + Yet I will love you still. + + _Rich._ Oh Women, that some one of you will take, + An everlasting pen into your hands: + And grave in paper which the writ shall make, + More lasting than the marble Monuments, + Your matchless virtues to posterities: + Which the defective race of envious man, + Strive to conceal. + + _Vio._ Methinks I would not now for any thing, + But you had mist me, I have made a story, + Will serve to waste many a winters fire + When we are old, I'll [tell] my daughters then, + The miseries their Mother had in love: + And say, my girls be wiser, yet I would not + Have had more wit my self, take up those Jewels, + For I think I hear my fellows coming. + + _Enter the Milk-maids with their pails._ + + _Madge._ How dost thou now? + + _Vio._ Why, very well I thank you, 'tis late, shall I haste home? + + _Nan._ I prethee we shall be shent soundly. + + _Madge._ Why does that railing man goe with us? + + _Vio._ I prethee speak well of him, on my word, + He's an honest man. + + _Nan._ There was never any so one's complexion, a Gentleman? + I'de be asham'd to have such a foul mouth. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter Mother_, Alexander, Andrugio, _and his man_ Rowland. + + _Moth._ How now _Alexander_, what Gentleman is this? + + _Alex._ Indeed forsooth I know not, I found him at the market full of + woe, crying a lost daughter, and telling all her tokens to the people; + and what you wot? by all subscription in the world, it should be our + new Maid _Melvia_, one would little think it, therefore I was bold to + tell him of her Mistriss. + + _Moth._ _Melvia?_ It cannot be, fool, alas you know she is a poor + wench, and I took her in upon mere charity. + + _And._ So seem'd my daughter when she went away, as she had made her + self. + + _Moth._ What stature was your child of, Sir? + + _And._ Not high, and of a brown complexion, + Her Hair aborn, a round face, which some friends that flattered me, + would say 'twould be a good one. + + _Alex._ This is still _Melvia_, Mistriss, that's the truth on't. + + _Moth._ It may be so, I'll promise you. + + _Alex._ Well, goe thy ways, the flower of our Town, for a hand and a + foot, I shall never see thy fellow. + + _Moth._ But had she not such toyes, as Bracelets, Rings, and Jewels? + + _And._ She was something bold indeed, to take such things that night + she left me. + + _Moth._ Then belike she run away? + + _And._ Though she be one I love, I dare not lye, she did indeed. + + _Moth._ What think you of this Jewel? + + _And._ Yes, this was one of them, and this was mine, you have made me + a new man, I thank you for it. + + _Moth._ Nay, and she be given to filching, there is your Jewel, I am + clear on't: but by your leave, Sir, you shall answer me for what is + lost since she came hither, I can tell you, there lye things + scattering in every place about the house. + + _Alex._ As I am virtuous, I have the lyingst old Gentlewoman to my + Mistriss, and the most malicious, the devil a good word will she give + a servant, that's her old rule; and God be thanked, they'll give her + as few, there is perfect love on both sides, it yearns my heart to + [heare] the wench misconstrued, a careful soul she is, I'll be sworn + for her, and when she's gone, let them say what they will, they may + cast their caps at such another. + + _And._ What you have lost by her, with all my heart + I'll see you double paid for, you have say'd + With your kind pity, two that must not live + Unless it be to thank you; take this Jewel, + This strikes off none of her offences, Mistriss, + Would I might see her. + + _Moth._ _Alexander_, run, and bid her make haste home, she's at the + milking Close; but tell her not by any means who's here, I know she'll + be too fearful. + + _Alex._ Well, we'll have a posset yet at parting, that's my comfort, + and one round, or else I'll lose my Will. [_Exit._ + + _And._ You shall find _Silvio_, _Uberto_, and _Pedro_ enquiring for + the Wench at the next Town, tell them she is found, and where I am, + and with the favor of this Gentlewoman, desire them to come hither. + + _Moth._ I pray do, they shall be all welcome. [_Exit Serv._ + + _Enter Justice,_ Curio, _and_ Mark. + + _Just._ By your leave forsooth, you shall see me find the parties by a + slight. + + _Moth._ Who's that, Mr. Justice? how do you, Sir? + + _Just._ Why, very well, and busie, where's your Son? + + _Moth._ He's within, Sir. + + _Just._ Hum, and how does the young woman my Cosin, that came down + with him. + + _Moth._ She's above, as a woman in her case may be. + + _Just._ You have confest it? then sirrah call in the Officers: she's + no Cosin of mine; a mere trick to discover all. + + _Moth._ To discover? what? + + _Enter_ Mark _and Officers_. + + _Just._ You shall know that anon: I think [you] have overreached you; + oh welcome, enter the house, and by virtue of my warrant which you + have there, seize upon the bodily persons of those whose names are + there written, to wit, one _Mercury_, and the wife of one _Antonio_. + + _Moth._ For what. + + _Just._ Away I say, + This Gentleman shall certifie you for what. [_Ex. Officer._ + + _Moth._ He can accuse my Son of nothing, he came from travel but + within these two days. + + _Just._ There hangs a tale. + + _Moth._ I should be sorry this should fall out at any time: but + especially now Sir; will you favour me so much, as to let me know of + what you accuse him? + + _Cur._ Upon suspition of murther. + + _Moth._ Murther? I defie thee. + + _Cur._ I pray God he may prove himself innocent. + + _Just._ Fie, say not so, you shew your self to be no good + Common-wealths man: for the more are hang'd the better 'tis for the + Common-wealth. + + _Moth._ By this rule you were best hang your self. + + _Just._ I forgive your honest mirth ever: Oh welcome, welcome _Mark_. + + _Enter_ Mark _and Officers, with_ Mercury _and the Wife_. + + Your Pen, Ink, and Paper, to take their examinations. + + _Mer._ Why do you pull me so? I'll go alone. + + _Just._ Let them stand, let them stand quietly, whilst they are + examin'd? + + _Wife._ What will you examine us of? + + _Just._ Of _Antonio's_ murther. + + _Mer._ Why, he was my friend. + + _Wife._ He was my Husband. + + _Just._ The more shame for you both; _Mark_, your Pen and Ink. + + _Moth._ Pray God all be well, I never knew any of these travellers + come to good; I beseech you, Sir, be favourable to my Son. + + _Just._ Gentlewoman, hold you content, I would it were come to that! + + _Mer._ For gods sake mother, why kneel you to such a pig-brib'd + fellow? he has surfeited of Geese, and they have put him into a fit of + Justice; let him do his worst. + + _Just._ Is your paper ready? + + _Mark._ I am ready, Sir. + + _Enter_ Antonio. + + _Just._ Accuse them, Sir, I command thee to lay down accusations + against these persons, in behalf of the State, and first look upon the + parties to be accus'd, and deliver your name. + + _Cur._ My name is _Curio_, my murthered kinsman + If he were living now, I should not know him, + 'Tis so long since we saw one another. + + _Ant._ My Cosin _Curio_? + + _Cur._ But thus much from the mouths of his servants, and others, + whose examinations I have in writing about me, I can accuse them of; + this _Mercury_, the last night, but this last, lay in _Antonio's_ + house, and in the night he rose, raising _Antonio_, where privately + they were in talk an hour, to what end I know not: but of likelyhood, + finding _Antonio's_ house not a fit place to murder him in, he + suffered him to go to bed again, but in the morning early, he train'd + him I think forth, after which time he never saw his home; his cloaths + were found near the place where _Mercury_ was, and the people at first + denyed they saw him: but at last he made a friv[o]lous tale, that + there he shifted himself into a Footmans habit: but in short, the next + hour this woman went to _Mercury_, and in her Coach they posted + hither; true accusations, I have no more, and I will make none. + + _Just._ No more? we need no more, sirrah, be drawing their Mittimus + before we hear their answer. What say you Sir? are you guilty of this + murther? + + _Mer._ No Sir. + + _Just._ Whether you are or no, confess, it will be the better for you. + + _Mer._ If I were guilty, your Rhetorick could not fetch it forth: but + though I am innocent, I confess, that if I were a stander by, these + circ[u]mstances urg'd, which are true, would make me doubtless believe + the accused parties, to be guilty. + + _Just._ Write down, that he being a stander by; for so you see he is, + doth doubtlesly believe the accused parties, which is himself to be + guilty. + + _Mer._ I say no such thing. + + _Just._ Write it down I say, we'll try that. + + _Mer._ I care not what you write, pray God you did not kill him for my + love, though I am free from this, we both deserve-- + + _Wife._ Govern your tongue I pray you, all is well, my Husband lives, + I know it, and I see him. + + _Just._ They whisper, sever them quickly I say, Officers, why do you + let them prompt one another, Gentlewoman, what say you to this, are + not you guilty? + + _Wife._ No, as I hope for mercy. + + _Just._ But are not those circumstances true, that this Gentleman hath + so shortly and methodically deliver'd? + + _Wife._ They are, and what you do with me, I care not, + Since he is dead, in whom was all my care: + You knew him not. + + _Just._ No, an't been better for you too, and you had never known him. + + _Wife._ Why then you did not know the worlds chief joy, + His face so manly as it had been made, + To fright the world, yet he so sweetly temper'd; + That he would make himself a natural fool, + To do a noble kind[n]ess for a friend. + He was a man whose name I'll not out-live, + Longer than heaven, whose Will must be obey'd; + Will have me do. + + _Ant._ And I will quit thy kindness. + + _Just._ Before me, she has made the tears stand in mine eyes, but I + must be austere, Gentlewoman; you must confess this murder. + + _Wife._ I cannot, Sir, I did it not, but I desire to see those + examinations which this Gentleman acknowledges to have about him, for + but late last night I receiv'd Letters from the City, yet I heard of + no confession, then. + + _Just._ You shall see them time enough I warrant you, but Letters you + say you had, where are those Letters? + + _Wife._ Sir, they are gone. + + _Just._ Gone? whither are they gone? + How have you dispos'd of 'em? + + _Wife._ Why Sir, they are for womens matters, and so I use 'em. + + _Just._ Who writ 'em? + + _Wife._ A man of mine. + + _Just._ Who brought 'em? + + _Wife._ A Post. + + _Just._ A Post? there is some great haste sure, aha, where is that + Post? + + _Wife._ Sir, there he stands.. + + _Just._ Does he so? bring hither that Post, I am afraid that Post will + prove a knave; come hither Post, what? what can you say concerning the + murder of _Antonio_? + + _Ant._ What's that to you? + + _Just._ Oh Post, you have no answer ready, have you? I'll have one + from you. + + _Ant._ You shall have no more from me than you have; you examine an + honest Gentleman and Gentlewoman here, 'tis pitty such fools as you + should be i'th Commission. + + _Just._ Say you so Post, take away that Post, whip him and bring him + again quickly, I'll hamper you Post. + + _Mer._ 'Tis _Antonio_, I know him now as well; what an irregular fool + is this! + + _Ant._ Whip me? hold off. + + _Wife._ Oh good Sir whip him, by his murmuring he should know + something of my Husbands death; that may quit me, for gods sake + fetch't out. + + _Just._ Whip him I say. + + _Ant._ Who is't dares whip me now? + + _Wife._ Oh my lov'd Husband. + + _Mer._ My most worthy friend? where have you been so long? + + _Ant._ I cannot speak for joy. + + _Just._ Why, what's the matter now, and shall not Law then have her + course? + + _Andra._ It shall h[a]ve no other course than it has I think. + + _Just._ It shall have other course before I go, or I'll beat my + brains, and I say it was not honestly done of him to discover himself + before the parties accus'd were executed, that Law might have had her + course, for then the kingdom flourishes. + + _Ant._ But such a wife as thou, had never any man, and such a friend + as he, believe me wife, shall never be [a] good wife, love my friend, + friend love my wife, hark friend. + + _Just._ _Mark_, if we can have nothing to do, you shall swear the + peace of some body. + + _Mark._ Yes Sir. + + _Ant._ By my troth I am sorry my wife is so obstinate, sooth, if I + could yet do thee any good, I wou'd, faith I wou'd. + + _Mer._ I thank you Sir, I have lost that passion. + + _Ant._ Cosin _Curio_, you and I must be better acquainted. + + _Cur._ It is my wish, Sir. + + _Ant._ I should not have known you neither, 'tis so long since we saw, + we were but children then: but you have shew'd your self an honest man + to me. + + _Cur._ I would be ever so. + + _Enter_ Richardo _and_ Viola. + + _Moth._ Look you, who's there. + + _And._ Say nothing to me, for thy peace is made. + + _Rich._ Sir, I can nothing say, + But that you are her Father, you can both + Not only pardon, when you have a wrong, + But love where you have most injury. + + _Just._ I think I shall hear of no hanging this year, there's A Tinker + and a Whore yet, the Cryer said, that rob'd her, and are in prison, I + hope they shall be hang'd. + + _And._ No truly Sir, they have broke prison. + + _Just._ 'Tis no matter, then [t]he Jaylor shall be hang'd. + + _And._ You are deceiv'd in that too, Sir, 'twas known to be against + his will, and he hath got his pardon, I think for nothing, but if it + doth cost him any thing, I'll pay it. + + _Just._ _Mark_, up with your papers, away. + + _Mer._ Oh you shall stay dinner, I have a couple of brawling + neighbors, that I'll assure you will not agree, and you shall have + the hearing of their matter. + + _Just._ With all my heart. + + _Mer._ Go, Gentlemen, go in. + + _Rich._ Oh _Viola_, that no succeeding age, + Might loose the memory of what thou wert, + But such an overswayed Sex is yours, + That all the virtuous actions you can do, + Are but as men will call them; and I swear, + 'Tis my belief, that women want but ways; + To praise their deeds, but men want deeds to praise. [_Exeunt omnes._ + + + + + EPILOGUE. + + + _'Tis ended, but my hopes and fears begin, + Nor can it be imputed as a sin + In me to wish it favour, if this night, + To the Judicious it hath giv'n delight. + I have my ends, and may such for their grace, + Vouchsaf'd to this, find theirs in every place._ + + + + + APPENDIX. + + + _In the following references to the text the lines are + numbered from the top of the page, including titles, acts, + stage directions, &c., but not, of course, the headline or + mere 'rules.' Where, as in the lists of Persons Represented, + there are double columns, the right-hand column is numbered + after the left._ + + It has not been thought necessary to record the correction of every + turned letter nor the substitution of marks of interrogation for marks + of exclamation and _vice versa_. Full-stops have been silently + inserted at the ends of speeches and each fresh speaker has been given + the dignity of a fresh line: in the double-columned folio the speeches + are frequently run on. Misprints in the Quartos and the First Folio + are recorded when they appear to be interesting. A word or two from + the printed text is attached to the variants recorded below in cases + where the variant, by itself, would not be sufficiently clear. Altered + punctuation is shown, usually, by printing the old punctuation between + the preceding and following words. + + + + #A#=First folio. #B#=Second folio. + + + + THE WOMANS PRIZE. + + + p. #1#, ll. 5-29. _Not in_ A + + p. #3#, l. 13. B] _Mar._ + l. 36. B] breeches out of fear, + + p. #5#, l. 27. B] _Rom_. + + p. #6#, l. 6. A] Fox and _Moroso_ + + p. #7#, l. 26. A] have I + + p. #8#, l. 5. A] up rowse + l. 7. A] o' th longs + + p. #10#, l. 38. B] Wonting + + p. #11#, l. 19. A] 'Cheere + l. 35. B] _Jap._ + + p. #12#, l. 22. A] home at + + p. #14#, l. 13. A] Spinala's + + p. #15#, l. 20. B] saying from + l. 23. B] list, lie + l. 29. B] as' tfol wols + l. 34. B] Bug-words + + p. #16#, l. 28. B] accept + l. 32. A] i'ld + + p. #18#, l. 20. B] _Mar._ + + p. #19#, l. 2. A] all thy + l. 23. a] Jewry + + p. #20#, l. 1. A _and_ B] shall believe + l. 9. B] speed? + l. 18. B] so. + + p. #21#, l. 13. B] you + + p. #22#, l. 3. B] Stranger, than + + p. #23#, l. 26. A _omits_] is + + p. #24#, l. 8. B] him. + l. 10. B] it; + + p. #25#, l. 14. A _omits_] _Mor._ + + p. #26#, l. 36. B] selves + + p. #27#, l. 26. B _omits_] most + l. 27. B] Coughs. + + p. #28#, l. 10. A] doe th'em + l. 21. A] Found + + p. #29#, l. 32. B] _Bow._ + l. 35. A] _Row_. Thou hast heard I am sure of Esculapius. + So were etc. + + p. #30#, l. 14. B] _Row._ Thou + l. 19. B] be + l. 34. B] _Raw._ + l. 39. B _omits_] doe + + p. #32#, l. 33. B] aad + + p. #33#, l. 5. B] Godheads + l. 40. A _repeats here_ + ll. 16-25 _on_ p. 29, _with the following alterations_] + + _Enter three mayds, at severall doors._ + goes the businesse + + p. #34#, l. 1. B] _Tertia._ + + p. #35#, l. 8. B] Heaven + l. 16. B] the Kingdom + ll. 22-36. _Not in_ A + + p. #36#, ll. 3, 4. A _omits_] _Citizens and Countrey women._ + + p. #37#, l. 14. B _omits_] then + l. 22. A] I lie + l. 40. A _and_ B] Plackets. + + p. #38#, l. 1. B] Dary + ll. 30, 31. _Not in_ B + + p. #39#, l. 5. A _and_ B] importun'd. + l. 24. B] down the + l. 29. B] commanded + + p. #40#, l. 1. B] _Petro._ + l. 17. B] Mistresses + + p. #41#, l. 4. B] _Tro._ + + p. #42#, l. 35. A _and_ B] leave. + + p. #43#, l. 15. B] _Jac._ + l. 31. B] Payers + + p. #44#, l. 7. B] _Jac._ + l. 10. A] Bagget + l. 12. A] a sober + l. 31. A] _Cinque-pace_ + Dame tosse and Butter, had he Bob too? + + p. #45#, l. 33. B] pains + + p. #46#, l. 34. A] plush, perfum'd, and purffle B] purffle, + l. 38. B] hangings. + + p. #47#, l. 31. A _omits_] you + l. 36. A] built + + p. #50#, l. 7. A] love too + l. 31. A] there's no gewgaws + + p. #51#, l. 33. B] Woman. + + p. #53#, l. 23. A] Heaven + + p. #56#, l. 14. A _omits_] a + + p. #57#, l. 5. A] dunhill + l. 8. B] two + l. 33. A] get dozen + + p. #58#, l. 1. B] would + l. 6. B] Eeel + + p. #61#, l. 24. A] these + + p. #62#, l. 34. B] Maid + l. 39. B _omits bracket_ + l. 40. A] dogge-latch + + p. #66#, l. 11. B] pounds + + p. #67#, l. 34. B] _Exunt_ + + p. #68#, l. 6. B _omits_] feare + + p. #69#, l. 18. A] by-lowes + l. 19. A] can hate + l. 26. A _omits_] my + + p. #70#, l. 7. B _omits_] again + + p. #71#, l. 8. B] Woman. + l. 24. B] 'cut + + p. #72#, l. 26. B] signs. + + p. #73#, l. 6. B] _Petrn_. + l. 29. A] morall + + p. #75#, l. 15. A] new adventure + l. 16. A] us nothing + + p. #76#, l. 9. B] _Catayana_ + + p. #78#, l. 4. A] Ha's + + p. #79#, l. 34. B _omits_], you + + p. #80#, l. 1. B] pettish + l. 23. B. _omits_] God + + p. #81#, l. 33. A _omits_] _Exeunt_ + + p. #83#, l. 4. B] come, exceed + + p. #85#, l. 28. B] Fadding + l. 31. A] seagly + + p. #86#, l. 12. B] same. + l. 37. A] had his + + p. #89#, l. 6. A] home since, since ye + l. 15. A] thy bread + l. 16. A] thy teeth + l. 33. B] _Petro_ + l. 36. B _omits_] done + + p. #90#, l. 2. B] _M_or + + + + THE ISLAND PRINCESS. + + + p. #91#, ll. 3-42. _Omitted in_ A + + p. #92#, l. 7. B] find. + l. 12. B] surprize. + l. 24. B] tightly + + p. #93#, l. 35. B _omits_] weares + + p. #94#, l. 23. B] since + + p. #95#, l. 14. A] 'is a + + p. #98#, l. 18. A] a tenant + + p. #100#, l. 24. B] And + ll. 28, 29. B _omits stage direction_ + + p. #101#, l. 5. A] Let my + + p. #103#, l. 9. A] There they should lye as miseries + l. 13. B] will + + p. #104#, l. 2. B] this + l. 14. A] accept your prisoner + + p. #105#, l. 31. A] Clod with + + p. #107#, l. 20. A _omits_] and + + p. #108#, l. 31. B _omits_] her + + p. #109#, l. 1. A] holds my + + p. #110#, l. 10. B] men do to + + p. #111#, l. 6. B] begun + l. 30. A _omits one_] that + + p. #113#, l. 35. B] Merchans + + p. #114#, l. 33. B] _Then._ + + p. #116#, l. 34. B] Body, oh me + + p. #117#, l. 2. B] rhese + + p. #118#, l. 37. B] preparation? + + p. #122#, l. 17. B] Princess + + p. #123#, l. A _omits_] him + l. 33. B] woman + + p. #124#, l. 23. B] Aud + + p. #125#, l. 5. A] you + + p. #126#, l. 8. B] kinsman. + l. 14. A] wert + + p. #127#, l. 2. B] dare + l. 24. B] followers. + l. 37. A] have you + + p. #128#, l. 8. A] Princesse + l. 13. B] _Pyu._ + l. 20. B] Love these + l. 28. A] feates + + p. #129#, l. 32. B] enconragement + + p. #130#, l. 25. B] _Pen._ + + p. #131#, l. 13. A] Is love + l. 33. A] And be but to make cleane his sword: coward + + p. #132#, l. 23. A _omits_] _and_ + + p. #135#, l. 8. A] Princesse + + p. #136#, l. 28. B] hope no night + + p. #138#, l. 40. A] complaine, me + + p. #143#, l. 30. A] And then + + p. #144#, l. 12. A _omits_] is + l. 20. A] Now I + + p. #145#, l. 35. A] toward + + p. #146#, l. 27. B] Island + + p. #147#, l. 1. B] dance. + l. 20. A] Plow + + p. #148#, l. 16. A] And may + l. 33. B] endeavour; + + p. #149#, l. 12. A] hide in iniquities + l. 18. A _omits_] _and_ + + p. #150#, l. 30. A] _Emanuel_--not-- + + p. #151#, l. 12. B] Armusia. + + p. #152#, l. 6. A] with'm + l. 10. B] honourably + l. 27. B] him [_full point supplied_] + + p. #153#, l. 1. A] wils + + p. #154#, l. 1. A] you + + p. #155#, l. 7. B] knowledge; + l. 8. B] swellings, A] maine aire + l. 16. A] doe performe + + p. #157#, l. 25. A] bound to? + + p. #158#, l. 2. A] plague 'a + l. 26. A] stinch + + p. #159#, l. 10. B] Nations + + p. #160#, l. 31. B _omits_] for 't; + + p. #161#, l. 32. B _omits the second_] ye + + p. #162#, l. 8. B] you + + p. #163#, l. 31. A _omits_] a + + p. #164#, l. 18. B] you + + p. #165#, l. 11. A] his arrant + + p. #168#, l. 25. B] thakful + l. 26. B] Dios + + p. #170#, l. 17. B] Princesses + + There is an edition of _The Island Princess_ in the British Museum + (161. c. 70) dated 1669, 'As it is Acted at the Theatre Royal by His + Majesties Servants. With the Alterations and New Additional Scenes. + Licensed May 31. 1669. Roger L'Estrange.' It does not appear to be + desirable to record here more than the following readings from a + collation kindly made by Mrs Arnold Glover: + + p. #92#, l. 22. pleasures + + p. #96#, l. 6. alone as a mask + + p. #103#, l. 27. _Dias_ could + + p. #104#, l. 21. your countrey + + p. #105#, l. 31. Clad + + p. #106#, l. 34. next to nothing + + p. #108#, l. 18. thou wish her + + p. #116#, to p. #117#, l. 15. _Re-written_ + + p. #117#, l. 29. without courage + l. 35. boyish brains out + + p. #140#, l. 24. to tax + + pp. #164, 165#. _Re-written_ _A prologue and an epilogue are added_ + + + + THE NOBLE GENTLEMAN. + + + p. #171#, ll. 3-28. _Not in_ A + _The Prologue is printed at the end of the play_ + l. 13. B] Lougueville + + p. #172#, l. 2. B] aud + l. 31. B] ro + + p. #173#, l. 8. A] you be + l. 16. A] preacht + l. 30. A] travaile + + p. #174#, l. 8. A] lights ... makes + + p. #175#, l. 38. B] worthy + + p. #176#, l. 19. B] upbraid + l. 39. A _omits_] a + + p. #177#, l. 26. A] not, in + + p. #178#, l. 20. B] he + l. 25. A] looks + + p. #179#, l. 2. B] _Mousieur_ + + p. #184#, l. 1. A] mine still, when + l. 15. A] trojan purple + + p. #185#, l. 11. A _omits_] _Scaena Prima._ + + p. #186#, ll. 18, 19. A] contented her, + When you first married her; a + + p. #187#, l. 1. B] mighty + l. 3. B _omits_] up + + p. #189#, l. 5. A _omits the second_] the + + p. #196#, l. 23. A _omits_] answer + + p. #198#, l. 5. A] do your + + p. #199#, l. 4. B _omits_] are + l. 17. A _omits_] _Scaena Prima._ + + p. #200#, l. 24. A] for me + + p. #202#, l. 36. B] Wake + + p. #203#, l. 20. B] you + + p. #209#, l. 31. B _omits_] good + + p. #211#, l. 10. A] Meron + + p. #212#, l. 8. A] thy Duke + l. 29. A _omits_] _Scaena Prima._ A _omits_] _and_ + + p. #213#, l. 3. A] ready husband + + p. #214#, l. 5. B] you? + l. 14. A] post horse + l. 16. B] _Shyt._ + + p. #215#, l. 10. A] innumerall + l. 21. A] you'r + + p. #217#, l. 19. A _omits_] sword + l. 30. B] defend + + p. #218#, l. 16. A] see thy + + p. #221#, l. 33. A] my soule + + p. #222#, l. 8. B] you + + p. #223#, l. 29. A] full, being in + l. 30. B] would + l. 33. B] mads + + p. #224#, l. 7. B] leasure. + + p. #226#, l. 25. A _omits_] _Scaena Prima._ + l. 28. B _omits_] and + l. 36. B] _srq._ + + p. #228#, l. 25. A] those + l. 36. B] _Duste._ + + p. #229#, l. 7. B] I am + l. 9. A] Nor shall you + l. 19. B] Lorgue + l. 22. B _omits_] the + + p. #230#, l. 5. B] you + l. 13. A] you, furnisht in + + p. #231#, l. 26. A] Disgraced + l. 33. B _omits_] God's ... Gentlemen + + p. #232#, l. 15. A] them? B] 'em? + l. 34. B _omits_] by heaven + + p. #236#, l. 19. B] assures + + p. #237#, l. 29. _So, both in_ A _and_ B + l. 41. B] appose + + p. #239#, l. 17. A] say'e? + + + + THE CORONATION. + + + #A#=the quarto of 1640. #B#=the 2nd folio. + + Mrs Arnold Glover has kindly collated a copy of the quarto in the Dyce + collection; Mr R.F. Towndrow has kindly collated a copy of the quarto + in the Bodleian. + + The title page of the quarto is as follows: + + The | Coronation | A Comedy. | As it was presented by her | Majesties + Servants at the private | House in _Drury_ Lane. | Written by _John + Fletcher_. Gent. | _LONDON_, | Printed by _Tho. Cotes_, for _Andrew + Crooke_, and | _William Cooke_. and are to be sold at the signe | of + the _Greene Dragon_, in _Pauls_ | _Church-yard_. 1640. + + p. #240#, l. 4. A] The Actors Names. + l. 24. A] The Prologue + l. 26. B] a Corporation day + l. 36. B] in + + p. #241#, l. 3. B] Temple + l. 16. B] Prologue too? + l. 29. A. _omits_] _Scaena Prima._ + + p. #244#, l. 10. A] _Macarius_ + l. 21. B] Prince? + + p. #246#, l. 28. B] it + + p. #247#, l. 30. B] obsolute + + p. #249#, l. 19. B] he + l. 37. B] Ketch + + p. #250#, l. 28. B] _Selecus_ + + p. #251#, l. 30. B] commonl + + p. #252#, l. 6. A _omits_] _Scaena Prima._ + + p. #254#, l. 29. B] court, with A] dower + + p. #256#, l. 8. A] gives + l. 9. B] hot + l. 19. A] should + + p. #257#, l. 19. B] _Are._ + l. 28. A] _Ladies and attendants, Gent._ + + p. #258#, l. 1. A] _Seleucus_ + + p. #260#, l. 5. B] forget + + p. #261#, l. 34. B] immatrial + + p. #262#, l. 5. A _omits_] the + l. 7. B] purpose. + + p. #263#, l. 23. B] that purpose to make you so + l. 31. B] tho + + p. #264#, l. 34. B] me. + l. 38. B _omits_] and now + + p. #267#, l. 4. A _and_ B _read_] _Phi._ [_before_ 'Tis] + l. 5. A _gives this line to_] _Phi._ + l. 6. A _gives this line to_] _Lisa._ + l. 12. B] Qeeen + l. 14. A _and_ B _read_] _Lisa._ + + p. #272#, l. 25. B] minure + + p. #273#, l. 7. B] failty + + p. #274#, l. 11. A] there is + l. 23. A _and_ B _read_] Deliver + + p. #276#, l. 14. A _omits_] _Scaena Prima._ + l. 37. B] or + + p. #278#, l. 27. A _and_ B _read_] rise + + p. #280#, l. 20. B] 'ill + + p. #285#, l. 10. A _omits_] _Sop._ + + p. #286#, l. 17. B] Wiliow + + p. #287#, l. 9. A] He'e my + + p. #289#, l. 13. A] bove all + + p. #292#, l. 1. A _omits_] _Scaena Prima._ + + p. #293#, l. 31. B] We + + p. #294#, l. 18. B] Protestor + l. 37. B] work + + p. #296#, l. 24. A] to it + l. 25. A] doe it + + p. #297#, l. 5. B] There's + l. 9. B] punish + + p. #298#, l. 19. B] _Pil._ + + p. #299#, l. 3. A _omits_] In + l. 5. B] there's + l. 9. B] honor, what + + p. #300#, l. 10. A] doe + + p. #302#, l. 18. A] _Eubulus_ B] _Etxi_ + l. 20. A _omits semicolon_ + + p. #303#, l. 29. A _omits_] and + + p. #304#, l. 30. A] _Demetrius_ + + p. #305#, l. 19. B] two + + p. #306#, l. 5. B] _Sis._ + l. 28. A] The Epilogue + l. 34. B] sad + + + + THE COXCOMB. + + + #A#=1st folio. #B#=2nd folio. + + p. #308#, ll. 3-43. _Not in_ A + + p. #309#, l. 1. A] The Prologue + l. 13. A] the + + p. #310#, l. 15. B] You'ave + + p. #311#, l. 1. A] Be + + p. #313#, l. 27. B] they we'll, Ill keep them + + p. #314#, l. 14. B] mouths my + l. 18. A _and_ B _omit_] _Ant._ + l. 29. A _and_ B] Gentlewoman? + + p. #315#, l. 6. A] Husband will come + l. 9. A] I had you had + l. 28. A] foole to-- + + p. #316#, l. 10. A _omits_] _Exit._ + l. 18. A] so their + l. 20. B] mad + l. 23. B] her? her? + l. 25. B _omits_] had + + p. #317#, l. 1. A] be sure + l. 30. B] heaven + + p. #319#, l. 21. _Omitted in_ B + l. 22. A] no jugling + l. 31. A] do most jest + + p. #320#, l. 6. B] she + + p. #321#, l. 29. B] Faith sweet + l. 38. B] thee + + p. #322#, l. 18. B _adds_] _Exit._ + l. 19. B] Wore + + p. #323#, l. 3. B] Y'cannot + l. 25. A _and_ B] me? + + p. #324#, l. 2. B _omits_] to + + p. #325#, l. 3. B] _hed_ + l. 10. A] your towne + + p. #327#, l. 11. B] will + l. 38. B] Heaven + + p. #328#, l. 3. B] I'll + + p. #329#, l. 2. B] better + l. 6. B] ventures + l. 12. A] excepted, ever + l. 31. A] an humour + + p. #331#, l. 7. B] tell thee + l. 12. B _omits_] and + l. 20. A] hang + l. 26. B] Heaven + l. 30. A] I am + + p. #337#, l. 14. B] are + l. 22. B] Heaven + + p. #338#, l. 29. A _omits_] Andrugio _and_ + l. 31. B _omits this line_ + l. 34. A] had in it a sap-house + + p. #340#, l. 30. B] if any + + p. #342#, l. 3. A] purpose + + p. #343#, l. 13. A _omits_] _Serv._ + + p. #344#, l. 5. A _omits_] I + + p. #345#, l. 29. A] world is + + p. #347#, l. 4. B] too + l. 15. B _omits_] thou + + p. #348#, l. 10. A] antowardst + l. 26. A] do + + p. #349#, l. 2. A] and pretious + + p. #350#, l. 5. A] a gods + l. 11. A] a tipling ... an' + l. 12. B] please + l. 15. B _omits_] night? + l. 33. B] Heavens + + p. #351#, l. 21. B] now + l. 40. A] thou art + + p. #352#, l. 33. B] impotunate + + p. #353#, l. 3. A] _Exeunt._ + l. 7. A] How injuringly + l. 10. A] shalt + l. 19. B] work withal + l. 20. A] goe too + + p. #354#, l. 13. B] We'll + l. 24. B] should + l. 33. B _omits_] Jesse + + p. #355#, l. 10. B] _Nay._ + l. 14. A _omits_] have + l. 33. B] Genlewoman + + p. #356#, l. 18. B _omits_] me + l. 32. B _omits_] Faith + l. 39. B] blessing on + + p. #357#, l. 1. B] awkeward + l. 3. B] I answer + l. 10. ? visit yon + l. 21. B] dispach'd + + p. #358#, l. 1. B] _Antouio_ + l. 6. A] beshrow + l. 19. B _omits_] a + l. 38. B] and and + + p. #359#, l. 21. A _omits_] I + l. 32. A _and_ B] Pigeons? + + p. #361#, l. 3. A] lov'd? so all + + p. #362#, l. 4. B _omits_] you + + p. #363#, l. 9. A] read an I + l. 32. A _omits_] a + + p. #364#, l. 32. B] for my + + p. #365#, l. 21. A _omits_] I + + p. #366#, l. 3. A] a meere + l. 35. A] no Inches + + p. #368#, l. 18. B] goodbwy + l. 19. B] oou + l. 25. B] come come + l. 26. A] yes body + l. 32. B] her her + + p. #369#, l. 4. A] with you + l. 12. A] too mocke me to, + l. 14. B] heaven + l. 31. A] carry now + + p. #370#, l. 4. B] you'll + l. 12. B] heavens + l. 27. B _omits_] tell + + p. #371#, l. 9. A] wot you what? + + p. #372#, l. 4. B] see + l. 9. A] paid, for you + l. 37. B] I + + p. #374#, l. 24. B] frivilous + l. 37. B] circmstances + + p. #375#, l. 26. B] kindess + + p. #376#, l. 37. B] heve + + p. #377#, l. 4. B _omits_] a + l. 30. B] rhe + + p. #378#, l. 9. A] The Epilogue + + + + END OF VOL. VIII. + + + + CAMBRIDGE: PRINTED BY JOHN CLAY, M.A. AT THE UNIVERSITY PRESS. + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Beaumont & Fletcher's Works (8 of 10), by +Francis Beaumont and John Fletcher + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BEAUMONT & FLETCHER'S WORKS *** + +***** This file should be named 35303.txt or 35303.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/3/5/3/0/35303/ + +Produced by Jonathan Ingram and the Online Distributed +Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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