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You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Perjur'd Husband + +Author: Susanna Centlivre + +Release Date: February 19, 2012 [EBook #38931] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE PERJUR'D HUSBAND *** + + + + +Produced by Delphine Lettau and the Online Distributed +Proofreading Canada Team at http://www.pgdpcanada.net (This +book was produced from scanned images of public domain +material from the Google Book Search project.) + + + + + + +</pre> + +<hr class="full" /> +<p> </p> + +<h5>THE</h5> +<h1>Perjur'd Husband:</h1> +<p> </p> + +<h5><span class="wide">OR, THE</span></h5> +<h3>Adventures of <span class="smallcaps">Venice</span>.</h3> +<p> </p> + +<h5>A</h5> +<h2>TRAGEDY.</h2> +<p> </p> +<p> </p> +<hr class="minimal" /> + +<h4>Drawn from</h4> + +<h5><span class="wide">THE</span></h5> +<h2><span class="wide">WORKS</span></h2> +<h4>OF THE CELEBRATED</h4> +<h3>Mrs. CENTLIVRE.</h3> +<p> </p> +<h4>VOLUME ONE</h4> +<p> </p> + +<h3><span class="wide">LONDON:</span></h3> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent">Printed for <span class="smallcaps">J. Knapton, C. Hitch</span> and <span class="smallcaps">L. Hawes</span>,<br /> +<span class="smallcaps">J.</span> and <span class="smallcaps">R. Tonson, S. Crowder</span> and Co. <span class="smallcaps">W. Bathoe</span>,<br /> +<span class="smallcaps">T. Lownds, T. Caslon</span>, and <span class="smallcaps">G. Kearsly</span>.</p></div> +<hr class="tiny" /> + +<h5>M.DCC.LXI.</h5> + +<p> </p> + +<div class="center"> +<table style="margin: 0 auto" cellpadding="4" summary="decoration"> + <tr> + <td align="center"> + <a href="images/decor0016sm.png"> + <img src="images/decor0016sm.png" height="110" + alt="PRINTER'S DECORATION" /></a> + </td> + </tr> + </table> +</div> + +<h5><span class="wide">THE</span></h5> +<h2><span class="wide">PROLOGUE.</span></h2> + +<h3>By a <span class="wide">GENTLEMAN</span>.</h3> + +<h4>Spoken by Mrs. <span class="wide">OLDFIELD</span>.</h4> + +<div class="center"> + <table style="margin: 0 auto" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" summary="prologue"> +<tr><td align="left"><i>Such dreadful Laws of late 'gainst Wit are made,</i><br /> +<i>It dares not in the City show its Head.</i><br /> +<i>No Place is safe; each Cuckold turns Informer,</i><br /> +<i>If we make merry—it must be in a Corner.</i><br /> +<i>And here's To-night, what doubly makes it sweet,</i><br /> +<i>A private Table, and a Lady's Treat:</i><br /> +<i>At her Reflections none can be uneasy,</i><br /> +<i>When the kind Creature does her best to please ye.</i><br /> +<i>Humbly she sues, and 'tis not for your Glory</i><br /> +<i>T'insult a Lady—when she falls before ye.</i><br /> +<i>But since no human Wit can stand the Test,</i><br /> +<i>With</i> Gorman! <i>and the</i> Champion of the West!<br /> +<i>She'll fill the Lists, and then you cannot slight her,</i><br /> +(<i>With Honour safe</i>) <i>for she's</i> a fair Inviter.<br /> +<i>Expects no Favour, but at Honour's Call,</i><br /> +<i>Defies the boldest</i> Briton <i>of you all;</i><br /> +<i>Whate'er's her Fate, she's sure to gain the Field,</i><br /> +<i>For Women always conquer, when they yield.</i></td></tr> +</table> +</div> + +<p> </p> +<div class="center"> +<table style="margin: 0 auto" cellpadding="4" summary="decoration"> + <tr> + <td align="center"> + <a href="images/decor0017sm.png"> + <img src="images/decor0017sm.png" height="60" + alt="PRINTER'S DECORATION" /></a> + </td> + </tr> + </table> +</div> +<h3>Dramatis Personæ.</h3> +<p> </p> +<div class="center"> + <table style="margin: 0 auto" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" summary="cast"> +<tr><td align="center" colspan="3"><span class="big">M E N</span></td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><i>Count</i> Bassino, <i>a</i> Savoyard, <i>married to</i> <br /> +<span class="ind1"> </span>Placentia, <i>and in Love with</i> Aurelia,</td><td align="left"><span class="bmouch2">}</span></td><td align="left" valign="middle"><i>Mr.</i> Mills.</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">Armando, Bassino's <i>Friend</i>,</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left"><i>Mr.</i> Simpson.</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">Alonzo, <i>a</i> Venetian <i>Gentleman</i>,<br /> +<span class="ind1"> </span><i>betrothed to</i> Aurelia,</td><td align="left"><span class="bmouch2">}</span></td><td align="left" valign="middle"><i>Mr.</i> Thomas.</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">Pizalto, <i>a Noble</i> Venetian,</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left"><i>Mr.</i> Norris.</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">Ludovico, <i>a</i> Frenchman, </td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left"><i>Mr.</i> Fairbank.<br /></td></tr> +<tr><td colspan="3"> </td></tr> +<tr><td class="center" colspan="3"><span class="big">W O M E N.</span></td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">Placentia, Bassino's <i>Wife</i>,</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left"><i>Mrs.</i> Kent.</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">Aurelia, <i>a young</i> Venetian <i>Lady,<br /> +<span class="ind1"> </span>betrothed to</i> Alonzo, <i>but in Love<br /> +<span class="ind1"> </span>with Bassino,</i></td><td align="left"><span class="bmouch2">}</span></td><td align="left" valign="middle"><i>Mrs.</i> Oldfield.</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">Forella, <i>her Woman</i>,</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left"><i>Mrs.</i> Baker.</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><i>Lady</i> Pizalta, Pizalto's <i>Wife</i>, </td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left"><i>Mrs.</i> Moore.</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">Lucy, <i>her Woman</i>,</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left"><i>Mrs.</i> Lucas.</td></tr> +<tr><td colspan="3"> </td></tr> +<tr><td align="center" colspan="3"><i>Maskers, Dancers, Singers, and Attendants.</i></td></tr> +<tr><td colspan="3"> </td></tr> +<tr><td align="center" colspan="3">SCENE, <span class="smallcaps">Venice</span>, in Carnival-Time.</td></tr> +</table> +</div> + +<p> </p> +<div class="center"> +<table style="margin: 0 auto" cellpadding="4" summary="decoration"> + <tr> + <td align="center"> + <a href="images/decor0018sm.png"> + <img src="images/decor0018sm.png" height="110" + alt="PRINTER'S DECORATION" /></a> + </td> + </tr> + </table> +</div> +<h4>THE</h4> + +<h2><span class="smallcaps">Perjur'd Husband</span>.</h2> +<p> </p> +<hr class="narrow" /> +<p> </p> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><span class="wide"><b>ACT I. SCENE I.</b></span></p></div> +<blockquote> +<p class="revind"><i>The Curtains fly up, and discover a Mask in</i> Pizalto's +<i>House</i>. Pizalto, <i>Lady</i> Pizalta, Lucy; Ludovico <i>talking +to Lady</i> Pizalta; Bassino <i>and</i> Aurelia <i>talking together</i>; +Florella <i>and other Maskers</i>.</p> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>A</i> Spanish <i>Entry</i>.<br /> +<br /> +<i>While the Dance is performing</i>, <i>enter</i> Armando, <i>and gives</i><br /> +Bassino <i>two Letters, which he opens and reads</i>.<br /> +<br /> +<i>Lady</i> Pizalta <i>and</i> Lucy <i>advance to the Front of the Stage</i>.</p> +</div> +<p> </p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> Oh! <i>Lucy</i>, I'm undone<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +That Stranger there has charm'd my Heart: I feel<br /> +The Pow'r of conquering Love; quick, quickly tell me,<br /> +What shall I do to ease this racking Passion?</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Nay, Madam, I fancy your Passion has little +Occasion for Lenitives; it blazes so violently at first, 'tis +like to be soon extinguish'd.</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> Dear <i>Lucy</i>, don't trifle with me; but contrive, +imagine, do any thing, to bless thy Love-sick Mistress +with the Sight of that dear Man: And as an Earnest of +further Rewards, here, take this<span class="nowrap">——</span><span class="ex">[<i>Gives her a Ring.</i></span></p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Madam, I receive your Commands with much +Joy, but your Present with more<span class="nowrap">——</span>[<i>Aside.</i>] I'll try +what this projecting Brain can do, and if you step into +the next Room, I'll soon give you an Account of my +Proceedings. <span class="ex">[<i>Exit L.</i> Pizalta.</span></p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Ye Gods!<br /> +What have I done, that you pursue me thus?<br /> +Why did you e'er decree that I should wed<br /> +A Wife I now must hate? Why did I see<br /> +The bright <i>Aurelia</i>? Why am I thus torn<br /> +'Twixt Love and Duty? Oh! what Pangs, what Torments<br /> +My Soul endures! Oh! my <i>Aurelia</i>!<br /> +</p> +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt omnes, but</i> Lucy & Ludov.</p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent">Lucy <i>pulling</i> Ludovico <i>by the Sleeve</i>.</p> +</div> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Sir, Sir, one Word with you.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Your Business<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> May one ask you a civil Question, and be resolv'd?</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Hum—A civil Question, sayst thou? What's it, +prithee, a Night's Lodging? If so, pull off thy Mask, and +I'll resolve thee instantly<span class="nowrap">——</span>But I never strike Bargains +in the Dark.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> I don't know, Sir, but it may tend to that, by +way of Proxy, at the long-run: But at present my Commission +reaches no further than to know your Lodgings; if +any Thing comes on't, I fancy 'twill not displease you.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> (<i>Aside.</i>) Hum<span class="nowrap">——</span>This is but a Pettifogger in +Intrigues, I find<span class="nowrap">——</span>Egad, I'm like to be pretty well +employ'd during the Carnival<span class="nowrap">——</span>Well, considering I am +a Stranger here, this Hit may be a lucky one, and the +Lady handsome<span class="nowrap">——</span>Egad, I'll fancy her so at least, wer't +but for the Pleasure of Expectation.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> What are you studying, Sir? Are you so long +resolving whether you shall accept a Lady's Favour, or no?</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> No, faith, Child: I am not over-scrupulous in +those Matters<span class="nowrap">——</span>Let her be but Woman, and we +shan't disagree<span class="nowrap">——</span>And so thou mayst tell her<span class="nowrap">——</span>There's +a Direction for thee. [<i>Tears the Superscription +of a Letter and gives it her.</i></p> +<p class="right">[<i>Exit</i> Ludovico.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Frank and easy, <i>a la mode de Paris</i><span class="nowrap">——</span>Well, +these indifferent Sparks charm more than all your cringing +Fops<span class="nowrap">——</span>Now for my Business—Let me see—I'll +to my Lady, she'll write; I'll carry the Letter, and the +Devil will turn Saint, if I don't bring 'em together, and +merit a further Recompence.</p> + +<div class="center"> +<table class="i" style="margin: 0 auto" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" summary="poetry"> +<tr><td align="left">By Coupling many have their Fortunes made;</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">I only want Preferment, not my Trade.</td></tr> +</table> +</div> +<p class="right">[<i>Exit</i> Lucy.</p> +<p> </p> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><span class="wide">SCENE II.</span></p> +</div> +<p class="revind"><i>The Scene changes to</i> Bassino's <i>Lodgings, and discovers the +Count in his Night-gown, a Table with Lights, and Letters +lying on the Table</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> All Things lie hush'd in peaceful Silence here:<br /> +All but <i>Bassino</i>'s Mind<span class="nowrap">——</span>Oh! happy he<br /> +Who lives secure and free from Love's Alarms.<br /> +But happier far, who, Master of himself,<br /> +Ranges abroad without that Clog, a Wife.<br /> +Oh! rigorous Laws impos'd on Free-born Man!<br /> +On Man, by bounteous Nature first design'd<br /> +The Sovereign Lord of all the Universe!<br /> +Why must his generous Passion thus be starv'd,<br /> +And be confined to one alone?<br /> +The Woman, whom Heaven sent as a Relief,<br /> +To ease the Burden of a tedious Life,<br /> +And be enjoy'd when summon'd by Desire,<br /> +Is now become the Tyrant of our Fates. [<i>Takes up a Letter.</i><br /> +But hold, <i>Bassino</i>! whither does thy Passion<br /> +Hurry thy wandering Reason: Let this Letter<br /> +Re-call the Fugitive, and fix thy Senses<br /> +On duteous Love<span class="nowrap">——</span>A Wife, so young, so fair,<br /> +So excellent, whose Charms not three Months since<br /> +Did fire thy Soul; a Wife, who dotes on thee;<br /> +A Wife to whom thou sworest eternal Love<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +By Heaven, I swear again I will be true.<br /> +This Thought again restores my Peace of Mind<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +No, charming Wife; no dear <i>Placentia</i>, no,<br /> +Thou shalt not beg in vain: I will return [<i>Kisses the Letter.</i><br /> +But who comes here—My Friend <i>Armando</i>?<br /> +</p> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Armando.</p> +</div> + +<p> +<i>Arm.</i> Dear Friend, I heard<br /> +The Conflict of your Passion, and my Joys<br /> +Are now compleat, since Virtue gains the Day.</p> + +<p> +<i>Bass.</i> Yes, dear <i>Armando</i>, the Conflict is o'er,<br /> +And I'm resolv'd to fly to my <i>Placentia</i>. +</p> + +<p> +<i>Arm.</i> Cherish that Thought: By Heaven your Resolution<br /> +Transports my Soul with Joy!<br /> +A kind, a virtuous Wife waits your Embraces;<br /> +A Wife, who like a Turtle mourns the Absence<br /> +Of her dear Mate. Haste then, my Friend, to drive<br /> +That Cloud of Sorrow which o'ercasts her Mind,<br /> +And, like the Sun, dispel her gloomy Thoughts. +</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Thanks for your Counsel<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +You like a God support my feeble Virtue.<br /> +This very Morning I'll prepare for <i>Turin</i>,<br /> +Where Time and Absence will deface the Image<br /> +Of that bewitching Beauty, which now haunts<br /> +My tortur'd Mind—Yet, first I'll take my Leave<br /> +Of this fair Charmer<span class="nowrap">——</span>And Heaven grant<br /> +That I may see her unconcern'd<span class="nowrap">——</span> +</p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> My Lord, what d'you mean?<br /> +Have you well weigh'd the Danger of this Visit? +</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> What danger can there be?</p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> Danger! my Lord—Consider well how feeble<br /> +Our Reason is against the Pow'r of Beauty<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> My Resolution's firm; no Charm can shake it.<br /></p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> If not her Beauty, fear her Syren Tongue;<br /> +fear her endearing Prayers, her fond Reproaches,<br /> +Her tender Sighs, her Vows, her trickling Tears.<br /> +Nay—if all these prove vain, fear her Despair,<br /> +A Woman, an abandon'd Woman's Rage.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Were there more Dangers, yet I'll stand 'em all;<br /> +My Honour bids me pay this parting Visit:<br /> +My Heart shall have no Share in what I'll speak.<br /> +Trust me this once, and be yourself a Witness,<br /> +<i>Bassino</i> can controul unlawful Love.<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> My Lord, 'tis with Regret I see you go,<br /> +May Heaven assist you in this dangerous Strife.</p> +<p> </p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><span class="wide">SCENE III.</span><br /> +<br /> +Aurelia's <i>Chamber</i>; <i>she in an Undress with</i> Florella.</p> +</div> + +<p> +<i>Aur.</i> No more of that—Cease thy ungrateful Suit,<br /> +<i>Alonzo</i> is a Man I cannot love;<br /> +I own he's witty, generous, and brave;<br /> +Has all the Charms that Nature can bestow<br /> +To fire a Woman's Heart<span class="nowrap">——</span>Yet I'm insensible,<br /> +His very Sight chills all my trembling Spirits;<br /> +Therefore, name him no more—I charge thee do not.</p> + +<p><i>Flor.</i> Madam, I've done—Yet shall I be permitted<br /> +To ask a Question? Are you then resolved<br /> +Ne'er to admit a Passion in your Breast?</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Oh! Dear <i>Florella</i>, press not a Confession,<br /> +Which but too well my Eyes themselves disclose.<br /> +Alas! I love—I love to such Excess,<br /> +That tho' I know I'm lov'd again, my Mind<br /> +Is still perplex'd with Doubts and jealous Fears.</p> + +<p><i>Flor.</i> You love and are belov'd! Then sure you reach<br /> +The Height of human Bliss, and bounteous Heaven<br /> +Can scarce give more<span class="nowrap">——</span>But who's the happy Man;<br /> +Is it not Count <i>Bassino</i>?</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Oh! charming Name; there's Musick in that Sound!<br /> +Yes, Count <i>Bassino</i> is the Man I love.<br /> +Canst thou now blame my Coldness to <i>Alonzo</i>?</p> + +<p><i>Flor.</i> Forgive me, Madam, if I dare presume<br /> +To speak my Sentiments: I must confess<br /> +<i>Bassino</i> is a Man of excellent Virtue;<br /> +His Education at the Court of <i>Savoy</i><br /> +Has still refin'd what he receiv'd from Nature;<br /> +His Person too is charming<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +And, what most Women court, he has a Title<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +But then consider, you are unacquainted<br /> +With his Estate, and tho' his Equipage<br /> +Denotes an ample Fortune, yet we see<br /> +Many a Stranger here during the Carnival,<br /> +Who makes a Figure here by industrious Gaming.<br /> +As for <i>Alonzo</i>, he was born at <i>Venice</i>,<br /> +Of noble Parents; his Estate, a large one<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +Even from his Youth you had his amorous Wishes,<br /> +And as he grew in Years his Love increas'd:<br /> +You lov'd him too<span class="nowrap">——</span>Nay, which is more, your Father<br /> +Approv'd your mutual Loves, and at his Death<br /> +Bequeath'd you to <i>Alonzo</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Oh! my <i>Florella</i>, thou hast rouz'd a Thought,<br /> +Which will for ever break <i>Aurelia</i>'s Rest.<br /> +I know my Father's Tenderness to me<br /> +Made him confirm <i>Alonzo</i>'s Suit, for then<br /> +I lov'd <i>Alonzo</i><span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +But were my gentle Father still alive,<br /> +I'm sure he would not cross my Inclinations,<br /> +But, Oh! name not my Father; I cannot bear<br /> +The sad Remembrance of so great a Loss. <span class="ex">[<i>Weeps.</i></span></p> + +<p><i>Flor.</i> But fear you not t'offend his peaceful Ghost,<br /> +By breaking with the Man he destin'd yours?</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> 'Tis not my Fault: and just Heaven must forgive<br /> +What Heaven decrees<span class="nowrap">——</span>Yes, 'tis my cruel Stars<br /> +That made my Heart inconstant to <i>Alonzo</i>,<br /> +'Tis with Regret I break my plighted Faith;<br /> +In vain I strive to check my new-born Love,<br /> +<ins title="omitted in original">I</ins> cannot, cannot live without <i>Bassino</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Flor.</i> Madam, I wish your Passion ne'er prove fatal,<br /> +But much I fear this inauspicious Match. +</p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Bassino, Armando.</p> +</div> + +<p> +<i>Aur.</i> May Heaven avert th' unlucky Combination<br /> +Of our presaging Thoughts: For, know, I tremble too—<br /> +But here's the man that will dispel my Fears.</p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> to <i>Bass.</i> My Lord, remember<br /> +To keep your Resolution.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> to <i>Arm.</i> Yes—I will keep it—[To <i>Aur.</i>] Madam,<br /> +<span class="ind2">you will pardon</span><br /> +A Morning Visit, when you know what Reasons<br /> +Press'd me to fix it on this early Hour.<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +By Letters from the Court I was last Night<br /> +Commanded to return with Speed to <i>Turin</i>,<br /> +And thence let out for <i>France</i>, to represent<br /> +My Sovereign Liege in solemn Embassy.<br /> +This Day I must prepare to take my Journey,<br /> +Tho' 'tis with killing Grief I leave my dear,<br /> +My fair <i>Aurelia</i><span class="nowrap">——</span>[To <i>Arm.</i>] Now, my <i>Armando</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> My Lord, 'tis well: But still be on your Guard,<br /> +The dreadful Shock comes on<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> This Day be gone! What means my Lord! Oh! Heaven,<br /> +My boding Fears are come to pass: I see<br /> +A Cloud of Woes just ready to o'erwhelm me.<br /> +Is't possible! how can that Form divine<br /> +Harbour such Treachery! Is then <i>Bassino</i> false?<br /> +Say, perjur'd Man, how often did you swear<br /> +This happy Day should make you mine for ever!<br /> +How can you now forget your solemn Vows?<br /> +Why have I met with this inhuman Usage?</p> + +<p> +<i>Bass.</i> Madam, my Prince's Orders<br /> +Are absolute: My Honour is concern'd.</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Must a vain Title be preferr'd to Love?<br /> +But no—You never lov'd<span class="nowrap">——</span>'twas base Deceit.<br /> +Curs'd, curs'd dissembling Men! Their flattering Tongues<br /> +Can feign a Passion that will look like Love,<br /> +Till by Degrees they get us in their Power;<br /> +Then with bold Impudence they draw the Vizor,<br /> +And shew the Cheat that mock'd our credulous Hopes.<br /> +Faithless <i>Bassino</i>,<br /> +How oft you swore your Love could ne'er expire:<br /> +How oft you swore one Smile of mine had Charms,<br /> +Even above the Glories of a Crown.<br /> +Those were the Oaths I fondly did believe;<br /> +Those Words convey'd a Poison to my Heart,<br /> +And even now I feel its mighty Force:<br /> +My Head turns giddy, and my trembling Knees<br /> +Betray their sinking Burden<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +Alas! I faint, I die<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p class="right">[<i>She faints</i>, Bassino <i>runs and embraces her</i>.</p> + +<p> +<i>Bass.</i> Oh! stay, my Love, my Life, my Soul, my all:<br /> +The Conflict's past, and I am thine again,<br /> +But she is breathless! Oh! ye rigorous Gods,<br /> +Give back her Soul, or let my own be plung'd<br /> +To dark <i>Elysium</i><span class="nowrap">——</span>Oh! my dear <i>Aurelia</i>! <span class="ex">[<i>Hugs her.</i></span></p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> Is this your Resolution? By Heaven, I blush<br /> +To call you Friend. Your Wife, my Lord, remember<br /> +Your Wife<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Curse on that Name<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +Urge me no more to follow your Chimeras,<br /> +Lest you oblige me to break off that Friendship<br /> +You blush to own<span class="nowrap">——</span>Oh! my <i>Aurelia</i>!</p> + +<p><i>Arm. aside.</i> How sweet is treacherous Vice! how eagerly<br /> +Fond Man pursues his Ruin!<br /> +All Arguments were vain<span class="nowrap">——</span>yet still one Way remains,<br /> +Which cannot fail, to stop the Progress of this impious Love.<br /> +His Wife, by my Direction, comes to <i>Venice</i>:<br /> +Her Sight will soon awake his slumbering Virtue,<br /> +At least it will retrieve <i>Aurelia</i>'s Senses. <span class="ex">[<i>Exit</i> Armando.</span></p> + +<p><i>Aur. recovering.</i> Where am I? Where's my Lord, my +false <i>Bassino</i>?</p> + +<p> +<i>Bass.</i> Here, here, my Soul, my charming Dear.</p> + +<p><i>Aur. thrusts him off.</i> Hold off—Approach me not—<br /> +<span class="ind2">urge not my Rage,</span><br /> +Or with this Dagger I'll revenge my Wrongs<br /> +On thy perfidious Heart<span class="nowrap">——</span>But, oh! his<br /> +Heart's too hard,<br /> +Even for temper'd Steel—Therefore I'll sheath it here.<br /> +</p> + +<p class="revind">[<i>Offers at her Breast</i>: Bassino <i>snatches the Dagger, +and throws himself at her Feet in a distracted Manner</i>.</p> + +<p> +<i>Bass.</i> Oh! hold<span class="nowrap">——</span>forbid it Gods!<br /> +I am the Cursed Cause, and I must die.<br /> +Oh! who could bear my Load of mortal Woe!<br /> +Ye heavenly Powers bestow the Stroke of Grace,<br /> +And rack <i>Bassino</i>: Let your vengeful Thunder<br /> +Now crush my guilty Head<span class="nowrap">——</span>Or thou, Oh! Parent Earth,<br /> +Open thy Bosom, and conceal my Crime. <span class="ex">[<i>Tears the Ground.</i></span></p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Is he then mine again! <span class="ex">[<i>Falls down.</i></span><br /> +Look up, my Lord, my Love, my Life!<br /> +My dear <i>Bassino</i>! 'Tis <i>Aurelia</i> calls.<br /> +Let me for ever fold thee in my Arms,<br /> +And beg thoul't never speak of parting more.</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Embraces him.</i></p> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>Both rise and embrace in an Extasy.</i></p> +</div> + +<p> +<i>Bass.</i> Oh! never, never<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +The Poles shall meet, the Sun and Moon invert<br /> +Their wonted Motion e're I part from thee.<br /> +I fondly try'd how much I was belov'd,<br /> +And since you're true, my Bliss is now compleat.</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Was't but a Trial? then my Griefs are vanish'd,<br /> +And I am lost in Joy<span class="nowrap">——</span><i>Bassino's</i> mine.<br /> +</p> +<p class="right">[<i>They embrace again.</i></p> + +<p> +<i>Bass.</i> Thine, thine for ever: And this happy Day,<br /> +Shall end <i>Aurelia</i>'s Fears<span class="nowrap">——</span>Ha<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +This Day, said I, but where's <i>Placentia</i> then?<br /> +My Wife <i>Placentia</i>! Little does she think<br /> +What Baseness I intend—Oh! racking Thought!<br /> +But 'tis resolv'd, I'll change nor think no more:<br /> +I'll try to plunge, and reach the blissful Shore;<br /> +And if I sink, yet still this Hope's my Friend,<br /> +I'll snatch my Treasure e're my Course I end. <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span></p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> My Lord, what makes you pause?</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> The ravishing Thoughts of mighty Joys to come<br /> +Kept me in Extasy and made me dumb;<br /> +When on thy snowy Breast dissolv'd I lie,<br /> +What Monarch can there be more blest than I?</p> + +<p class="right">[Bassino <i>leads her off with a languishing Air</i>.</p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Alonzo.</p> +</div> +<p> +<i>Alon.</i> Sure, if my Eyes deceive me not, I saw<br /> +<i>Aurelia</i> with the Count just parting hence:<br /> +Dissolv'd in Love, and languishing they seem'd.<br /> +Damnation<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +I cannot bear the Thought—I'll after 'em.<br /> +</p> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent">Alonzo <i>going</i>. <i>Enter</i> Florella.</p> +</div> + +<p><i>Flor. aside.</i> Ha<span class="nowrap">——</span><i>Alonzo</i> here! I must prevent a +Discovery.</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> <i>Florella</i> here! she comes opportunely<span class="nowrap">——</span>she +may inform me of what I yet but fear<span class="nowrap">——</span>Good-morrow, +<i>Florella</i>: How fares my Love, my dear <i>Aurelia</i>?</p> + +<p><i>Flor.</i> Signior, Good-morrow; you are an early Visitant.</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Not for a Man in Love; but answer me, How +does <i>Aurelia</i>?</p> + +<p><i>Flor.</i> Well in Health<span class="nowrap">——</span>Only she's now and then +in a little Fit of Melancholy, such as usually proceeds +from timorous Doubts about that dreadful State of Matrimony. +You know the Time draws nigh that gives her +to your Arms.</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> By Heaven! 'Tis an Age, there's six Days yet +to come.</p> + +<p><i>Flor.</i> An Age, indeed, if he knew all. <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span></p> + +<p> +<i>Alon.</i> But haste, <i>Florella</i>; lead me to my Dear,<br /> +She only can contract that tedious Age<br /> +Of lingring Pain, and sooth it with her Smiles.<br /> +Say, is she alone?</p> + +<p><i>Flor.</i> Yes<span class="nowrap">——</span>No<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +Oh! Heaven! What shall I say? <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span><br /> +She, she's a<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Ha<span class="nowrap">——</span>What means this faultering Answer?<br /> +All's not right, and my Suspicion's true.</p> + +<p><i>Flor.</i> Signior, my Lady is not drest, and I shall displease +her, in admitting even you, without her Leave.</p> + +<p> +<i>Alon.</i> Ha<span class="nowrap">——</span>not drest<span class="nowrap">——</span>Take heed you mock me not;<br /> +Nor think to blind me with your feign'd Excuse:<br /> +For in your guilty Face I read the Truth.<br /> +Come, tell me who's with her? is't not <i>Bassino</i>?</p> + +<p><i>Flor. aside.</i> Oh! Heaven! What shall I say?</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Nay, nay, no Study: Lying will not do:<br /> +I saw 'em part from hence, just now I saw 'em.<br /> +Harkee, sweet Mistress, how long have you practis'd<br /> +This subtle Trade? I find you're much improv'd.<br /> +Hell and Damnation<span class="nowrap">——</span>quickly, tell me<br /> +What did <i>Bassino</i> give for his Admittance?<br /> +I'll double the Reward—but she's not drest for me<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +Oh! damn'd, damn'd Sex!</p> + +<p><i>Flor.</i> Signior, what do you mean?</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> To see <i>Aurelia</i><span class="nowrap">——</span>see her instantly<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +Nay by Heaven! I will: All Opposition's vain:<br /> +For by th' avenging Power of Love I swear,<br /> +Tho' in <i>Bassino</i>'s Arms, I'll drag her thence,<br /> +Only to cast her from my Sight for ever:<br /> +Nor shall he live to triumph in my Shame.<br /> +What tho' the Marriage Rites be not perform'd,<br /> +Yet I may call her Wife. Her Father gave her to me:<br /> +And her own Vows have fix'd my Heart in her's.<br /> +Must then <i>Alonzo</i> be deny'd Admittance,<br /> +Under that poor Pretence that she's not drest?<br /> +Whilst base <i>Bassino</i> lies dissolv'd in Pleasures<br /> +On her perfidious Breast<span class="nowrap">——</span>Oh! killing Thought!<br /> +She makes my Name of Husband infamous,<br /> +Even before the Priest has join'd our Hands.<br /> +I'll in, and if th' Affront I tamely bear,<br /> +May Heaven deny me at my latest Prayer.</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt.</i></p> +<p> </p> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><span class="wide">SCENE IV.</span> Ludovico's <i>Lodgings</i>.<br /> +<br />Ludovico <i>solus</i>. +</p> +</div> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Who waits?</p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Mountaine.</p> +</div> + +<p><i>Mount.</i> Did you call, Sir?</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> <i>Mountaine</i>, run to Signiora <i>Ronquilla</i>, and tell her +I have done with her for ever, if she does not send this +Evening the hundred Ducats she promised to lend +me<span class="nowrap">——</span>And harkee, as you come back, acquaint +Signiora <i>Cornara</i> I shall be busy To-morrow, and desire +she will put off her Visit till another Day.</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Knocking at the Door.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mount.</i> Sir, there's somebody at the Door.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> See who 'tis.</p> + +<p><i>Mount.</i> Sir, a Gentlewoman desires to speak with you.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> A Gentlewoman! admit her<span class="nowrap">——</span>Well,<br /> +'Tis a great Fatigue to oblige the whole Sex.</p> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Lucy.</p> +</div> +<p>Oh! what News from your Lady?</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> This will inform you, Sir. <span class="ex">[<i>Gives him a Letter.</i></span></p> + +<p><i>Lud. reads.</i> Hum, hum, a Letter<span class="nowrap">——</span><i>Tho' it may +seem improper for one of my Sex to make the first Step in +an Amour, yet you ought to consider, that the rigorous +Confinement we are under all the Year round, may, in some +Measure, excuse the Liberties we take during the Carnival. +If you have the Courage to meet me, I shall be at four in the +Afternoon in the</i> Piazza d'Espagna, <i>invisible to all but +yourself</i>.<span class="nowrap">——</span>Well, I believe all Women in <i>Venice</i> are +wild for Gallants.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Sir, what Answer shall I return to my Lady?</p> + +<p><i>Lud. aside.</i> Egad<span class="nowrap">——</span>I am in Doubt whether I shall +throw my Time away on this Intrigue or no<span class="nowrap">——</span>Harkee +Child, step into the next Chamber, and I'll +answer your Message instantly<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> +<p class="right">[<i>Exit</i> Lucy.</p> + +<p class="noindent">Let me see<span class="nowrap">——</span>[<i>Reads in his Table-Book</i>] <i>Monday</i>, at +Two in the Afternoon, I am to meet Signiora <i>Belleza</i> +at her Nurse's<span class="nowrap">——</span>She's a pretty Rogue, and so I'll go—At +Three of the Clock, Signiora <i>Dorinda</i>, the Senator's +Wife, at the <i>Indian</i> House<span class="nowrap">——</span>Pshaw, she's an old Acquaintance,<span class="nowrap">——</span>I +shan't go<span class="nowrap">——</span>At half an Hour past +Three, the Countess <i>Wrinkle</i>, who presented me with a +Gold-hilted Sword<span class="nowrap">——</span>Silly Fool! does she think I'll +bestow one of my Visits on an old shrivelled Piece of +Antiquity, for a trifling Present, not worth above three-score +Pistoles<span class="nowrap">——</span>At a Quarter past Four, my Semstress +<i>Dorothy Steenkirk</i>, who supplies me with Linen,—Oh! +this Visit may be put off for a new Intrigue—And +so I'll acquaint the Messenger.</p> +<p class="right">[<i>Exit</i> Ludovico.</p> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>The End of the First Act.</i></p> +</div> +</blockquote> +<p> </p> +<hr class="narrow" /> +<p> </p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><span class="wide"><b>ACT II. SCENE I.</b></span></p></div> + +<blockquote> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><span class="big"><i>A Chamber in Signior</i> Pizalto's <i>House</i></span>.<br /> +<br /> +<i>Enter Lady</i> Pizalta, Lucy.</p> +</div> + +<p>Lady <i>Piz.</i> Did you deliver my Letter to <i>Ludovico</i>, +<i>Lucy</i>?</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Madam, I did; I found him in his Study, reading +the Lover's Watch, which he swears does not at all +agree with his Constitution. He hates Injunctions of +Love, like those of Penance: For the one, says he, is +no more pleasurable to the Body, than the other beneficial +to the Soul.</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> What a fine Gallant I'm like to have with +these Principles! Well<span class="nowrap">——</span>what did he say to a Summons +from a Woman of my Quality? Did it not make +him wish the Time of Assignation were sooner than the +Appointment in the Letter?</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> He first hum'd over your Billet; and pausing a +while, he desired me to stay for an Answer in a next +Room; then coming to me, he ask'd me what Countrywoman +you were? For, said he, if she should prove +an old Acquaintance, I would use her damnably—But +when I had assured him you never saw the Outside of +these Walls, he began to have that Desire which all Men +have to a new Face.</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> Very well; and what then?</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> He strait enquir'd whether you were black, +brown, fair, old, young, Maid, Wife, or Widow? I +told him you was a wretched Wife to an old, impotent, +rich, covetous, noble <i>Venetian</i>; beautiful, young, generous, +and of a fair Complexion. He hugg'd me at +these Words, seem'd transported with the News, and +swore that in Intrigues a Wife was most suitable to +his Temper; for, said he, there's neither Children to +father, nor Honour to repair: And where his Pocket +and Liberty are safe, he is contented to venture his +Body and Soul.</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> Excellent Maxims!</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> In short, Madam, he says he has had several +Bills of this Nature drawn upon him of late, and how +much his Stock may be exhausted, he knows not; but +however he'll meet you, and if he cannot answer your +Expectation, he'll give you Earnest.</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> You talk merrily, Girl; I hope you did +not tell my Name. I should be loath to trust a Man of +his Character with my Reputation at first Dash.</p> + +<p><i>Luc.</i> No, Madam, I only told your Quality.</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> That's well: Oh! Reputation, what several +Sorts of Slavery do we undergo to preserve thee! for to +be thought virtuous, we are forced to be constantly railing +against Vice, tho' our Tongues and Maxims seldom +agree.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Alas! Madam, that Pretence is grown too common: +For the Men now take it for granted, that a Lady +is very near surrendering, when once she holds out that +Flag of Defiance.</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> Well—Men use us very barbarously: They +will neither suffer us to be honest, nor allow us to be +thought so<span class="nowrap">——</span>Here, take this Key, and secure every +thing that concerns my Reputation: And if my Husband +wakes ere I come back, you may easily find some Excuse +to prevent his Enquiries: for the Carnival allows us more +Liberty, than at other times we dare pretend to<span class="nowrap">——</span>I +know thy Honesty, and will rely upon't.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Yes, indeed, Madam, I am honest at the Bottom.</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> Well, I'll be gone: 'Tis about the Hour.</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Ex.</i> L. <i>Piz.</i></p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Pizalto.</p> +</div> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Good Luck attend you, Madam<span class="nowrap">——</span>Oh! +Heavens! here's my Lord<span class="nowrap">——</span>Madam, Madam, +Madam<span class="nowrap">——</span>Oh! Lord, what shall I say, now she's +gone?</p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> Hist, hist, <i>Lucy</i>: Don't, don't, don't call your +Lady, for I have a Word or two to say to thee in private, +and have waited for this lucky Opportunity a +great while<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Lucy, aside.</i> Now <i>Venus</i> be prais'd. I hope he has +found some Business of his own, that may give my Lady +an Opportunity to mind her's.</p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> Well, <i>Lucy</i>, well,—canst thou guess my Business +now?</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> No, indeed, Sir—But I'm certain, an old +Man's Business can't be great. <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span></p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> [<i>Gives her a Looking-glass.</i>] Here, Child, this +will tell thee—Look in't, look in't, I say<span class="nowrap">——</span>Ah! +ah! thou hast a pretty pouting Lip, a delicate roguish +Eye, such an Ogle, such a Cast<span class="nowrap">——</span>Ah! Rogue<span class="nowrap">——</span>Faith, +thou'rt very pretty: And, in short, if any one +rival thy Lady, it will be thee, <i>Lucy</i><span class="nowrap">——</span>Egad, I +have Fire in me, yet.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy, aside.</i> O' my Conscience, and little too. I believe: +Yet I wish he has enough to serve my Ends. I'll +make my Fortune<span class="nowrap">——</span>Lord, Sir, what do you +mean? I rival my Lady! Heaven forbid; I would not +injure so good a Woman for the World<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> Pshaw, pshaw—Where's the Injury done to her, +Child? Adod, I'll give thee a hundred Crowns.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> No Injury, say you, my Lord? Why, I wonder +you should be so jealous of my Lady, and preach such religious +Maxims to her, when your own Principles are +quite opposite.</p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> Look ye, Child, a Man may do that, which +would look abominable in a Wife<span class="nowrap">——</span>A Woman's +Reputation is a nice Thing<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> 'Tis so<span class="nowrap">——</span>and therefore 'tis but Reason I +should take Care of mine.</p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> Prithee, no more of that: Thy Reputation shall +be safe; I'll marry thee to my Gentleman.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Gentleman—Valet! Faugh—And what Good +will a hundred Crowns do me, when my Virginity is +gone? Indeed, if you lov'd me as much as you say, +and would make my Fortune, (for I should love extreamly +to be a Lady) I cannot tell how far you might +persuade me<span class="nowrap">——</span>I know my Reputation would be safe +in your Hands.</p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> Make thy Fortune! Why, I've known some of +our Nobles marry a Wife with less than a hundred +Crowns<span class="nowrap">——</span>But adod, thou'rt a charming Girl, and +therefore I'll make it a hundred Pistoles—What say'st +thou now, <i>Lucy</i>? Ah! adod, I must buss thee; [<i>Kisses her.</i>] +Ah! Rogue, methinks I'm a young, lusty, vigorous +Fellow again<span class="nowrap">——</span>Thou shalt find I am, Girl.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy, aside.</i> I believe I shall fail you, old Gentleman. +Well, my Lord, make it up a thousand Pistoles, and +I am your's else I'll die a Maid, I'm resolv'd.</p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> A thousand Pistoles, why thou art the most unconscionable +Wench in <i>Italy</i>: Why, 'tis a Price for a Duchess +in some Countries. Come, come, prithee be reasonable, +<i>Lucy</i>?</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Reasonable! why you don't ask a reasonable +Thing<span class="nowrap">——</span>Look you, you know my Mind, I'll not +bate a Penny<span class="nowrap">——</span>I'll warrant my Lady will give me two +hundred at least for my Discovery. <span class="ex">[<i>Going.</i></span></p> + +<p><i>Piz. aside.</i> Udslife! she won't tell my Wife, sure, +I'm ruin'd if she does; I'd rather give her two thousand<span class="nowrap">——</span>Hold, +hold, <i>Lucy</i>, sweet <i>Lucy</i>, prithee +come back<span class="nowrap">——</span>Faith, thou'rt so charming, I can +deny thee nothing<span class="nowrap">——</span>Come, it shall be what thou +wilt<span class="nowrap">——</span>Come now, Rogue, let's retire to thy Chamber<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Nay, nay, no ent'ring the Premises, till you +have paid the Purchase<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> Adod, thou'rt a Wag<span class="nowrap">——</span>Come in then, +and I'll discharge the Debt: Thou'rt a cunning Gipsy.</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit</i> Pizal.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> You shall have Reason to say so, e're I have done +with you, old Gentleman<span class="nowrap">——</span>For I am resolv'd to +shew you a Trick, and preserve my Virtue. <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span></p> + +<div class="center"> +<table class="i" style="margin: 0 auto" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" summary="poetry"> +<tr><td align="left">For did base Men within my Power fall,</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">T' avenge my injur'd Sex, I'd jilt 'em all.</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">And would but Women follow my Advice,</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">They should be glad at last to pay our Price.</td></tr> +</table> +</div> +<p class="right">[<i>Exit</i> Lucy.</p> +<p> </p> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><span class="wide">SCENE II.</span><br /> +<br /> +<i>The</i> Piazza d'Espagna <i>in</i> Venice.<br /> +<br /> +<i>Enter Lady</i> Pizalta <i>sola</i>.</p> +</div> +<p> +L. <i>Piz.</i> Not come yet! ungrateful Man! must a<br /> +Woman of my Quality wait?<br /> +How have we lost our Pow'r since the Creation?<br /> +When the whole World had but one single Lord,<br /> +Whom every Creature readily obey'd?<br /> +Yet he, that mighty he, caught with a Smile,<br /> +Flew to th'Embraces of the tempting Fair.<br /> +But now each puny Sinner dares to cross<br /> +A Woman's Inclinations<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +</p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Ludovico.</p> +</div> + +<p> +Oh! are you come, Signior? I suppose you have<br /> +Some other Assignation, that made you miss<br /> +My Hour<span class="nowrap">——</span>Pursue it pray<span class="nowrap">——</span>I'll not interrupt you—<br /> +Your Servant<span class="nowrap">——</span><span class="ex">[<i>Going.</i></span><br /> +I hope he'll not take me at my Word. <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span></p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Nay, nay, Signiora, why this Passion?</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Stops her.</i></p> + +<p>You sent me a Challenge, and I, like a Man of Courage, +am come to answer it<span class="nowrap">——</span>Pray don't let a Quarter of +an Hour break Squares<span class="nowrap">——</span>I own it was a fault to make +a Lady wait; but Friends, Madam, Friends and good +Wine are the Devil<span class="nowrap">——</span>Come I'll make you amends.</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> Friends and good Wine! I suppose those +Friends were Female ones<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> No, Faith: You shall judge of that<span class="nowrap">——</span>But +suppose they were<span class="nowrap">——</span>Why should you be angry that I +did not fly with the desired Haste, as long as I am come +time enough to give you Satisfaction<span class="nowrap">——</span>Besides, I han't +seen your Face yet, and for aught I know, it mayn't reward +my Complement in coming now<span class="nowrap">——</span>Prithee, Child, +unmask, and then I'll tell thee more of my Mind.</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> The Devil take this Fellow<span class="nowrap">——</span>and yet methinks +I love him for his Indifferency<span class="nowrap">——</span>[<i>Aside.</i>] You +talk as if you were unskill'd in the Art of Love: Don't +you know that Expectation feeds more than twenty tasted +Pleasures?</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Hum<span class="nowrap">——</span>some Sort of Fops it may: But I'm +none of those<span class="nowrap">——</span>I never give my Opinion of a Dish till +I've tasted; neither do I care to dine often on one Sort of +Meat without changing the Sauce<span class="nowrap">——</span>But when that +Cloud's withdrawn, how long I shall keep my Resolution +I know not.</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> Say you so! Why then the only Way to preserve +your Appetite is to feed you slenderly; or only let +you see the food, but not to taste.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Faith, Madam, I'm no Camelion, but Flesh and +Blood<span class="nowrap">——</span>Therefore these Prescriptions are of no +Use<span class="nowrap">——</span>One Sight of that dear charming Face of your's, +would be more obliging to your humble Servant.</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz. unmasks.</i> Well, Sir, what think you? Is there +any thing in this Face worth your Regard?</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Ah! by Heaven, an Angel<span class="nowrap">——</span>Oh! Madam, +now blame yourself for my Neglect, for had you sent the +Picture of her, in whom all those Beauties center, I had +in this Place waited the Coming of my Goddess, or rather +flown on the Wings of eager Love, to meet my +Fair, tho' in the Arms of ten thousand Dangers<span class="nowrap">——</span>Say, +my charming Angel, do you forgive me? But why +do I ask? your Eyes assure me you do; at least I'll force +a Pardon from these dear, soft, ruby Lips.</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Kisses her in Extasy.</i></p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> Hold, hold! been't so lavish<span class="nowrap">——</span>a sparing +Gamester is the likeliest to keep in Stock<span class="nowrap">——</span>whilst a +profuse Hand at one Cast throws all he has away.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> To fear that, were to doubt your Charms, in +which a Lover is sure to find constant Supplies<span class="nowrap">——</span>But +we lose Time<span class="nowrap">——</span>Let's retire to my Lodgings, where +I'll give thee the best Proofs of my Love I can?</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz. aside.</i> Well! He's a charming Fellow<span class="nowrap">——</span>Oh! +how happy are Wives in <i>France</i> and <i>England</i>, +where such as he swarm!</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Come, Madam, come<span class="nowrap">——</span>Why, what do +you mean by this Delay? Consider I'm a Man, a mortal, +wishing, amorous Man<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> And consider I'm a Woman<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Lud. aside.</i> Ay, ay: That I know: At least I hope +to find you such<span class="nowrap">——</span>or I would not be in such +Haste<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> And have a Reputation to preserve.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Oh! Lord, what a damn'd Turn's here? <ins title="original has Reputatron">Reputation</ins>, +say you? Egad, I find all Women make Pretence +to that mysterious Word. [<i>Aside.</i>] What! Are not +you married, Madam?</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> Yes, what then?</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Why then you have a Reputation to preserve—that's +all.</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> All, Sir, yes, and all in all to me<span class="nowrap">——</span>Do +you consider what Country you're in, Sir?</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Yes, Faith, Madam; and what Constitution I +am of too. I know Murder is as venial a Sin here, as +Adultery is in some Countries; And I am too apprehensive +of my mortal Part not to avoid Danger<span class="nowrap">——</span>Therefore, +Madam, you have an infallible Security<span class="nowrap">——</span>if +I should betray you, I bring myself into Jeopardy, and +of all Pleasures, Self-Preservation is the dearest.</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> A very open Speaker, I vow.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Ay, Madam, that's best<span class="nowrap">——</span>Hang your +creeping, cringing, whining, sighing, dying, lying +Lovers<span class="nowrap">——</span>Pugh! Their Flames are not more durable +than mine, tho' they make more Noise in the Blaze.</p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent">Sings:</p> +<table class="i" style="margin: 0 auto" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" summary="poetry"> +<tr><td align="left">Hang the whining Way of Wooing,</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">Loving was design'd a sport.</td></tr> +</table> +</div> + +<p>L. <i>Piz. aside.</i> The Duce take me if this Fellow has +not charm'd me strangely<span class="nowrap">——</span>Well, the Carnival is +almost over, and then must I be shut up like a Nun +again<span class="nowrap">——</span>Hey! Hoa! This Time will be so +short<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Let's make the better Use on't then, my Dear. +We will consider when we have nothing else to do, but +at present there's a Matter of the greatest Moment, +which I must impart to you<span class="nowrap">——</span>Therefore, come +dear Rogue, come<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> [<i>Looking on her Watch.</i>] Hold<span class="nowrap">——</span>I have +outstaid my Time, and must return Home instantly, to +prevent Discoveries.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Faith, Madam, this is not fair<span class="nowrap">——</span>to raise a +Man's Expectation, and then disappoint him! Would +you be serv'd so yourself now?</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> I'll endeavour to disengage myself from my +jealous Husband, and contrive another Meeting.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> But will you be sure to meet me again?</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> I give you my Hand as a Pledge<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Lud. Kisses it.</i> And I this Kiss in Return<span class="nowrap">——</span>Adieu, +my Charmer.</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> Signior, farewel. <span class="ex">[<i>Exeunt severally.</i></span></p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Bassino, Alonzo.</p> +</div> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Well, Sir, your Business<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> It is to tell you<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +You are a Villain.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Ha<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> And that as such<br /> +I ought to have treated you before the Face<br /> +Of false <i>Aurelia</i><span class="nowrap">——</span>But I scorn to follow<br /> +The barbarous Custom of my native Country.<br /> +I seek with Honour to revenge my Wrongs;<br /> +Therefore, Sir, draw<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> This Action speaks you noble—be likewise just,<br /> +And let me know the Cause that moves your Anger.<br /> +By Heaven I'd rather call you still my Friend,<br /> +Than be your Enemy<span class="nowrap">——</span>Yet, if I wrong'd you,<br /> +I'll give you Satisfaction<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Trifler, away<span class="nowrap">——</span>Too well thou know'st the Cause;<br /> +And now would'st sooth my Wrongs with Flattery,<br /> +But my Resolve is fix'd as Heaven's Decrees:<br /> +And one of us must fall<span class="nowrap">——</span>Let the Survivor<br /> +Dispose of that base, false, perjur'd <i>Aurelia</i>,<br /> +As both his Love and Honour shall direct.<br /> +If my propitious Stars defend my Life,<br /> +You shall not die alone<span class="nowrap">——</span>Th' adulterous Fair<br /> +Shall bear you Company<span class="nowrap">——</span>Now draw.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Oh! hold.<br /> +One Moment hold, I must unfold this Riddle:<br /> +Adulterous Fair, say you?</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Yes: She's my Wife.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Ha<span class="nowrap">——</span>your Wife!<br /> +Sure there's a Curse entail'd upon that Name. <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span><br /> +What! your real Wife?</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> If the Command of an expiring Father,<br /> +And her own Vows can make her mine, she's so:<br /> +Indeed the Marriage Rites are yet to come,<br /> +Which slily she delay'd these two Months past,<br /> +On slight Pretence of finishing the Time<br /> +Of mourning for her Father<span class="nowrap">——</span>But 'tis plain,<br /> +I was a Property to your base Love,<br /> +And only design'd to fill up your Place,<br /> +When surfeited you should return to <i>Turin</i>.<br /> +Hell<span class="nowrap">——</span>Furies! Draw, or in my just Revenge,<br /> +I'll pin you to the Earth<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Oh! Woman! Woman! <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span><br /> +Yes, I will draw<span class="nowrap">——</span>But ere the fatal Stroke<br /> +Is past Recal, I swear <i>Aurelia</i>'s Virtue<br /> +Is clear and spotless, like <i>Diana</i>'s self:<br /> +Nor was I prompted on this early Visit,<br /> +But with Design to take my last Farewel,<br /> +Having last Night receiv'd my Prince's Orders<br /> +To haste to <i>Turin</i><span class="nowrap">——</span>Therefore if I fall,<br /> +I hope she'll meet with Mercy<span class="nowrap">——</span>Now come on.</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Hold, hold, my Lord; Oh! could I credit this,<br /> +I would ask Pardon, and entreat your Friendship.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> 'Tis true, upon my Honour<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +But if you doubt my Words, I'm ready<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +Tho' I have Reason to decline this Combat,<br /> +At least at present<span class="nowrap">——</span>Oh! <i>Placentia</i>! <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span><br /> +Oh! my <i>Placentia</i>! why should I abuse thee?</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> My Lord, you seem disturb'd<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Oh! <i>Alonzo</i>! <i>Alonzo</i>!<br /> +Should I acquaint you with my wretched Fate,<br /> +You'd find that Life itself is grown a Burden,<br /> +I cannot bear, since I can ne'er be happy.<br /> +But 'tis a Story that must ne'er be told,<br /> +Let it suffice, to settle your Repose,<br /> +That <i>Turin</i> holds the Cause of my Misfortunes.</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Then I am happy: <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span><br /> +My Lord, I wish 'twere in my Power to serve you,<br /> +I'd do it as a Friend<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Generous Sir, I thank you;<br /> +As far as I am capable, I am <i>Alonzo</i>'s. <span class="ex">[<i>Exit</i> Alonzo.</span><br /> +Oh! Force of treacherous Love! to gain my End,<br /> +I wrong a Wife, a Mistress, and a Friend.</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit</i> Bassino.</p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>The End of the</i> <span class="smallcaps">Second Act</span>.</p> +</div> +</blockquote> +<p> </p> +<hr class="narrow" /> +<p> </p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><span class="wide"><b>ACT III. SCENE I.</b></span></p> +</div> + +<blockquote> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><span class="big">Aurelia's <i>Lodgings</i>.</span><br /> +<br /> +<i>Enter</i> Aurelia, Florella.</p> +</div> + +<p> +<i>Aur.</i> Oh! how I tremble for my dear <i>Bassino</i>!<br /> +Haste, fly, <i>Florella</i>, bring me News he lives,<br /> +Or else expect to see thy Mistress die.</p> + +<p><i>Flor.</i> Madam, be patient<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +Consult your Reputation, and consider<br /> +That the least Noise you make on this Occasion,<br /> +Reflects upon your Virtue<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Away, away<span class="nowrap">——</span>Talk not of Reputation,<br /> +When Love's in t'other Scale—But what can shock my<br /> +<span class="ind2">Reputation;</span><br /> +Heaven's my Witness, I ne'er lodg'd a Thought,<br /> +For Count <i>Bassino</i> that could wrong my Virtue.<br /> +Perhaps the Gods pursue me with their Hatred,<br /> +Because I break my Promise to <i>Alonzo</i>.<br /> +But then, why did they not secure me his?<br /> +Why must weak Mortals be expos'd to Passions,<br /> +Which are not in our Power to subdue,<br /> +And yet account for what they prompt us to?<br /> +But I will think no more<span class="nowrap">——</span>Almighty Love,<br /> +Now hear my last Resolve<span class="nowrap">——</span>if angry Heaven<br /> +Refused to guard my dear <i>Bassino</i>'s Life,<br /> +<i>Aurelia</i> too shall fall, and leave his Murderer<br /> +Accurst for ever<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<div class="center"><p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Alonzo.</p> +</div> + +<p><i>Flor.</i> Oh! Heaven! where will this end?</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Ha<span class="nowrap">——</span> <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span><br /> +The Gods have sent him to decide my Fate,<br /> +How now! how dare you meet my angry View?<br /> +Or think I'll e'er forgive the base Affront<br /> +This very Day you offer'd to my Fame?</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Just Heaven refuses not a Penitent,<br /> +Therefore I cannot think that fair <i>Aurelia</i>,<br /> +Whose Charms are all divine, should fail in Goodness.<br /> +Oh! let my Love atone for my rash Deed:<br /> +The Count and I are Friends, why should <i>Aurelia</i> be<br /> +<span class="ind2">more severe?</span></p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> He lives, blest News!<br /> +Do then rash Actions speak your Love to me?<br /> +Must I in publick bear with your Insults<br /> +Before I'm yours? what must I then expect<br /> +When the strict Ties of Marriage shall confirm<br /> +Your jealous Passions?<br /> +No, you have taught me to avoid the Shelf<br /> +I was just running on<span class="nowrap">——</span>know, base <i>Alonzo</i>,<br /> +That from this Moment I resume my Freedom,<br /> +I disengage you from your former Vows,<br /> +And will henceforth be Mistress of myself.</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Ha<span class="nowrap">——</span> <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span><br /> +This sudden Coldness has another Spring<br /> +Than my rash Carriage<span class="nowrap">——</span>Oh! my jealous Fears;<br /> +But I'm resolv'd to trace her winding Thoughts,<br /> +And fetch the Secret forth<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +Madam, I hope you do but try my Love:<br /> +I cannot think <i>Aurelia</i> would be false.<br /> +Besides, you can't recal what's register'd in Heaven.</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Then stay till we come there<span class="nowrap">——</span>There you'll<br /> +<span class="ind2">have Witness.</span></p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Witness!<br /> +Oh! faithless, perjur'd Woman, can'st thou think<br /> +Upon thyself, and bid me call my Witness?<br /> +Yes, you are mine<span class="nowrap">——</span>By all the Gods you are.<br /> +And shall there be a Power on this Side Heaven,<br /> +To stop my Bliss? No<span class="nowrap">——</span>by my Love I swear.<br /> +I now can guess at your perfidious Meaning,<br /> +And tho' that cowardly Villain slily thought<br /> +To blind me with a Tale his Guilt had fram'd,<br /> +'Tis plain he is your Minion<span class="nowrap">——</span>yet wants Courage<br /> +To own his Treachery.</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Detracting, slanderous Villain!<br /> +How dare you treat me thus?<br /> +Oh! for the Look of a fierce Basilisk,<br /> +To punish this audacious Insolence!</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Marry thee! No<span class="nowrap">——</span>by Heavens, I'd rather<br /> +Be rack'd to Death<span class="nowrap">——</span>And for thy vile Injustice,<br /> +None shall enjoy thee, while this Sword is mine.<br /> +<span class="ex">[<i>Lays hold on his Sword.</i></span><br /> +Nor shall your Lover 'scape, to serve your Lust,<br /> +Till he has forc'd a Passage thro' this Breast.<br /> +<span class="ex">[<i>Points to his Breast.</i></span></p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Oh! my <i>Bassino</i>. <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span><br /> +Oh! cruel Man! Are not you then contented<br /> +To wreak your Spite on poor <i>Aurelia</i>?<br /> +Why must your Rage involve the Innocent?<br /> +Oh! let me fall your Passion's Sacrifice;<br /> +Let my Blood wash the Stain you fix on me,<br /> +But do not blast your Name with base Revenge.<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> By Heaven! she doats on him! Oh! cunning Woman!<br /> +But this Pretence won't serve to save his Life;<br /> +I'll not be caught again<span class="nowrap">——</span>No, <i>Syren</i>, no.<br /> +<i>Bassino</i> dies<span class="nowrap">——</span>Nor will I leave to Fortune<br /> +The vengeful Stroke, but take a safer Way.</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Oh! Heaven! <span class="ex">[<i>Kneels.</i></span><br /> +What Words shall I invent to soothe his Rage, <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span><br /> +And save my dear <i>Bassino</i>? Oh! <i>Alonzo</i>.<br /> +My once-lov'd Dear, will you not hear me speak?<br /> +Oh! I conjure you by our plighted Loves,<br /> +Whose Purity outshone the Stars above,<br /> +Hear me this Time, then use me as you please.</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Oh! Woman, Woman!</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> If e'er <i>Aurelia</i><br /> +So much as in her Thoughts did wrong <i>Alonzo</i>,<br /> +May sudden Death pursue her perjur'd Steps:<br /> +Heaven forgive <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span><br /> +The Perjury, since I've no other way<br /> +To save <i>Bassino's</i> Life.<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> <i>Aurelia</i>, rise<span class="nowrap">——</span> <span class="ex">[<i>Raising her.</i></span><br /> +Oh! could I credit this, how happy were <i>Alonzo</i>!<br /> +But something tells me that thou art forsworn;<br /> +And yet thou seem'st as fair as Truth itself;<br /> +How is it possible that Guilt can look<br /> +With so divine a Face?</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Oh! kill me instantly: kill me, I beg you, kill me;<br /> +Let me not linger out an Age in Pain,<br /> +For such is every Moment of your Anger;<br /> +I cannot bear to live in your Displeasure.</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> By Heaven she's true<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +Hence frivolous Fears be gone<span class="nowrap">——</span>she's only mine.<br /> +Come to my Breast, my bright <i>Aurelia</i>, come.<br /> +<span class="ex">[<i>Embraces her.</i></span><br /> +To that soft Shrine that holds that Sacred Image,<br /> +Which triumphs o'er my Soul, and grasps it all,<br /> +I knew my boundless Treasure, and the Thought<br /> +Of losing thee had rais'd my Love to Madness.<br /> +But now I'm calm—No more shall that fierce Passion,<br /> +Rude Jealousy, disturb my peaceful Mind.<br /> +Do but forgive the Faults my Rage committed,<br /> +And you will find our Loves will grow the purer;<br /> +Just as the Sky looks brighter when the Storm<br /> +Is chas'd away, and <i>Phœbus</i> smiles again.</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Since both have been to blame, let it suffice,<br /> +We both repent, and will offend no more.</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Oh! never, never,<br /> +I'll ne'er suspect you more—Only resolve me this—</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> What is it?</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Why was <i>Bassino</i><br /> +Admitted to your View, and I denied?</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> He came to take his Leave, and 't had been rude<br /> +Not to admit a Man of his high Birth<br /> +On this Occasion; nor was you denied,<br /> +But thro' Woman's Fears of your Suspicions.<br /> +She thought you would misconstrue the Count's Visit,<br /> +As you have really done<span class="nowrap">——</span>I blam'd her for it,<br /> +Indeed, this is the Truth—I hope <i>Alonzo</i><br /> +Believes me now<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Believe Thee! Yes<span class="nowrap">——</span>As willingly as Martyrs<br /> +A State of endless Joy.<br /> +I will so love, my Dear, that all Mankind<br /> +Shall look with Envy on our mutual Bliss.<br /> +I'm like a Merchant tost at Sea by Storms,<br /> +Who his last Course with Pray'rs and Toil performs;<br /> +And the rich Cargo safely brought on Shore,<br /> +He hugs it thus, and vows to part no more.</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Embraces her.</i></p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> So in a flow'ry Mead a Serpent lurks,<br /> +And the unwary Traveller surprizes,<br /> +Where he suspects least Danger! Cursed Cheat. <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span><br /> +Oh! that I could disclose the fatal Story!<br /> +But it must never out<span class="nowrap">——</span>I beg, <i>Alonzo</i>,<br /> +You'd leave me for a while, and rest secure,<br /> +You have my Love<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Then the bright Sun in all his circling Turn,<br /> +Cannot behold a Man more truly happy,<br /> +What you command, I readily obey.<br /> +Farewel, my Dear. <span class="ex">[<i>Exit</i> Alonzo.</span></p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Where art thou now, <i>Aurelia</i>?<br /> +How wilt thou 'scape that dreadful Precipice,<br /> +On which thou art hurried on by thy fatal Passion?<br /> +With conscious Horror I deceiv'd <i>Alonzo</i>;<br /> +I hate this base Treachery, but 'twas unavoidable:<br /> +The Truth had been more fatal<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +More fatal!<span class="nowrap">——</span>No<span class="nowrap">——</span>For I must never wed<br /> +My dear <i>Bassino</i>, whilst <i>Alonzo</i> lives.<br /> +Oh! the distracting Thought! what shall I do?<br /> +Why! die <i>Aurelia</i>: That's the only Way,<br /> +To keep thy Vows to both—Ha<span class="nowrap">——</span>die, said I?<br /> +But whether then? who knows what Punishment,<br /> +Just Heav'n prepares for guilty Souls like mine.<br /> +But I must think no more, lest I grow mad with Thought,<br /> +If there's a Power that guards us here below,<br /> +Oh! look with pitying Eyes on poor <i>Aurelia</i>:<br /> +Appease the Tumults of my anxious Fear,<br /> +And load me with no more than I can bear.</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt</i> Aurelia, Florella.</p> +<p> </p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><span class="wide">SCENE II.</span> <i>Lady</i> Pizalta's <i>Lodgings</i>.<br /> +<br /> +<i>Enter Lady</i> Pizalta, Lucy.</p> +</div> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> Well, thou'rt an admirable Girl! What would +half the Ladies in <i>Venice</i> give for such a Servant?</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> (<i>Aside.</i>) Truly you have Reason to say so, for +'tis not the first Intrigue I have manag'd for you<span class="nowrap">——</span>Oh! +dear Madam, your Ladyship does me too much +Honour<span class="nowrap">——</span>But how do you like your new Servant, +Madam?</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> Oh! above all Men living, <i>Lucy</i>: He has the +most bewitching Conversation I ever met with<span class="nowrap">——</span>Say, +is there no way to contrive a second Meeting? For I'm +impatient till I see the dear Man again<span class="nowrap">——</span>The End +of the Carnival draws near, which is indeed the End of +Life to me: For then must I be coop'd up with Age: +Condemned to an eternal Coughing, Spitting, Snoring +and Ill-nature<span class="nowrap">——</span>Then let me make the best of Life<span class="nowrap">——</span>since +Hell cannot have a worse Plague in Store +than I have felt already.</p> + +<p><i>Luc.</i> Indeed, Madam, I pity you: And wish 'twere +in my Power to free you from this old wither'd Log, but +tho' that's impossible, yet I may do you some little Services +to make Life's tedious Journey pleasant<span class="nowrap">——</span>Let +me see, I have it<span class="nowrap">——</span>What would you say now, +Madam, if I should contrive a Way to have your Lover +in your <ins title="original has own own">own</ins> Chamber?</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> That were worth a King's Revenue<span class="nowrap">——</span>Speak, +quickly, how, how, good <i>Lucy</i>?</p> + +<p><i>Luc.</i> Why, thus: He shall put on my Cloaths, and in +my Place attend you.</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> Rare Contrivance! but my Husband, <i>Lucy</i>?</p> + +<p><i>Luc.</i> Oh! let me alone, Madam, to manage him: He +is defective in Sight, you know; and not mistrusting any +thing, will not be over curious: But if he should, I have +a way to bring you off<span class="nowrap">——</span>My Life on't<span class="nowrap">——</span>This Plot +may be of Use to my design, I'll manage it with care. <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span></p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> Oh! the Pleasure of hearing my Husband lie +coughing and calling me to Bed: And my answering +him, I'm coming, Dear; and while he imagines me in +the next Room undressing, I'm happy in the Arms of my +<i>Ludovico</i>. Certainly there's as much Satisfaction in deceiving +a dull jealous Husband, as in getting a new Gallant; +were it not grown so common—each Tradesman's +Wife must have her Gallant too<span class="nowrap">——</span>and sometimes +makes a Journeyman of the Apprentice e'er his Indentures +be half out<span class="nowrap">——</span>'Tis an insufferable Fault, that +Quality can have no Pleasure above the Vulgar, except +it be in not paying their Debts. Well, dear <i>Lucy</i>, I admire +thy Contrivance<span class="nowrap">——</span>About it instantly<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> (<i>Aside.</i>) About it instantly! is that all? I must +have my t'other Fee first.<span class="nowrap">——</span>I will, Madam; and +you may expect your Lover instantly. But, Madam, +what's to be done with your brocade Night-Gown you +tore last Night? it can ne'er be mended handsomely.</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> Nothing to be done without a Bribe I find, +in Love as well as Law<span class="nowrap">——</span>Well, <i>Lucy</i>, if you manage +this Intrigue with Care and Secrecy, the Gown is yours.</p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Page.</p> +</div> + +<p><i>Page.</i> Madam, my Lord desires to speak with you.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Madam, I'll go about your Business: Your +Ladyship's very humble Servant. <span class="ex">[<i>Exit</i> Lucy.</span></p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> Tell him I'm coming<span class="nowrap">——</span>[<i>Exit</i> Page.] Now +by way of Mortification, must I go entertain my old +jealous Husband. <span class="ex">[<i>Exit Lady</i> Pizalta.</span></p> +<p> </p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><span class="wide">SCENE III.</span> <i>The Piazza.</i><br /> +<br /> +<i>Enter</i> Ludovico <i>singing</i>.</p> +</div> + +<div class="center"> +<table class="i" style="margin: 0 auto" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" summary="poetry"> +<tr><td align="left"><span class="ind1">Give me but Wine, that Liquor of Life,</span></td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">And a Girl that is wholesome and clean,</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><span class="ind1">Two or three Friends, but the Devil a Wife,</span></td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">And I'd not change State with a King.</td></tr> +</table> + +<p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Lucy.</p> +</div> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> What singing, Signior! Well you're a pleasant +Gentleman<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Ah! my little female <i>Mercury</i>, what Message +bring'st thou? Ha<span class="nowrap">——</span>will thy Lady bless me with another +Sight<span class="nowrap">——</span>Ha<span class="nowrap">——</span>How<span class="nowrap">——</span>When? where? I +am all in a Flame.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Come along with me, Sir, I'll help you to an +Extinguisher presently.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> If thou meanest thy Lady, with all my Heart—But +I can tell thee, she'll rather prove Oil, than what +you speak of<span class="nowrap">——</span>But, say, where am I to see my +lovely Charmer?</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> In her Chamber<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Good! But how the Devil can that be done?</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Nay, without the Help of a Conjuror, I assure +you; if you dare take me for your Pilot, I'll warrant +you Success in your Voyage<span class="nowrap">——</span>I'll set you safe in the +Island of Love; 'tis your Business to improve the Soil.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> I warrant thee, Girl; do you but bring me there +once, and if I play not my Part, may I never more know +the Pleasure of an Intrigue.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Which, if I mistake not, is the streatest Curse +can fall on you<span class="nowrap">——</span>Well, you must suffer a small Metamorphosis: +What think you of personating me a little? +That is, dressing in my Cloaths, and waiting on your +Mistress in her Bed-chamber—Ha<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Egad, I'm afraid I shall make but an aukward +Chamber-maid, I'm undisciplin'd in dressing a Lady's +Head<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Oh! Sir, your Commission won't reach so high +as the Head: I believe my Lady will excuse little Matters: +You can undress, I suppose.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Oh! the best and the quickest of any Man in +<i>Venice</i>. But a Pox on't—Can'st find no other way?<span class="nowrap">——</span>I, +I, I,<span class="nowrap">——</span>I like Petticoats in their proper Places, but I +don't care to have my Legs in 'em.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> And so you resolve against it? Ha<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> No, not absolutely resolve, Child: But—a<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> But what, Sir!</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Nothing—I will follow thy Directions, whatever +comes on't. Now lead the way, for nothing suits better +with my Humour than a Friend, a Bottle, a new Mistress +and a convenient Place.<br /> +<span class="ex">[<i>Exit</i> Lucy, Ludovico.</span></p> +<p> </p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><span class="wide">SCENE IV.</span> Pizalto's <i>Lodgings</i>.<br /> +<br /> +<i>Enter</i> Pizalto <i>with a Bond in his Hand</i>.</p> +</div> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> Well—My Wife's a fine Woman! a very fine +Woman! But a Pox she's a Wife still, and this young +Jade runs in my Head plaguily: Well<span class="nowrap">——</span>here 'tis +under my Hand; a Thousand Pistoles<span class="nowrap">——</span>A great Sum +for a Maidenhead, as Maidenheads go now-a-days<span class="nowrap">——</span>Ah, +had I been young now.</p> + +<div class="center"> +<table class="i" style="margin: 0 auto" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" summary="poetry"> +<tr><td align="left">A Fiddle and a Treat had bore the Prize away,</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">But when we old Fools doat, they make us pay.</td></tr> +</table> +<p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Lucy.</p> +</div> + +<p>Oh! are you come! Here, here, <i>Lucy</i>: Here's a Fortune +for thee, worth twenty Maidenheads, adod! I have +not so much Money by me at present, but there's Security.</p> +<p class="right">[<i>Gives her the Bond.</i></p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Your Lordship's Bond's sufficient<span class="nowrap">——</span>Well, +but that I am satisfied my Reputation is safe with your +Lordship, or twice the Sum should not have prevail'd—Go +to my Chamber, my Lord, I'll but step and see if +my Lady wants any thing, and I'll be with you instantly.</p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> You won't stay, <i>Lucy</i>? Ah, Girl, buss thy Lady's +Chucky; now, do now<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Oh! Lord! not here, we shall be discovered.</p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> Well, thou art a cunning Sinner: make haste, +<i>Lucy</i>, dost hear?</p> +<p class="right">[<i>Exit</i> Pizalto.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> You're in mighty Haste, old Gentleman! but I +shall deceive you,</p> + +<div class="center"> +<table class="i" style="margin: 0 auto" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" summary="poetry"> +<tr><td align="left">My End is gain'd; I have my Fortune made,</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">Man has not me, but I have Man betray'd.</td></tr> +</table> +</div> +<p> </p> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>The End of the</i> <span class="smallcaps">Third Act</span>.</p> +</div> +</blockquote> +<p> </p> +<hr class="narrow" /> +<p> </p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><span class="wide"><b>ACT IV. SCENE I.</b></span></p></div> + +<blockquote> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><span class="big">Armando's <i>Lodgings</i>.</span><br /> +<br /> +<i>Enter</i> Armando, Placentia.</p> +</div> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Oh! <i>Armando</i>!<br /> +Thou more than Friend to the distress'd <i>Placentia</i>!<br /> +Say, how shall I regain my lost <i>Bassino</i>,<br /> +My false, perfidious Husband? <span class="ex">[<i>Weeps.</i></span></p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> Dear Madam, moderate your Sorrow:<br /> +Reserve those Tears to move <i>Bassino</i>'s Heart,<br /> +Mine is all Pity: You may rest secure<br /> +Of all the Arguments a Friend can use<br /> +To bring him back to your endearing Arms.<br /> +Virtue's not quite extinguish'd in his Breast,<br /> +Therefore I hope the sight of bright <i>Placentia</i><br /> +Will rouze his slumb'ring Reason<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Oh! <i>Bassino! Bassino!</i><br /> +Oh! wretched Woman! Oh! that I had dy'd<br /> +E'er I had known him false: Then I were happy:<br /> +And tho' contented with his second Choice,<br /> +He with a pitying Sigh, perhaps, had grac'd<br /> +My Memory<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +Oh! all ye Powers that virtuous Love inspire,<br /> +Assist me now: Inform my vocal Organs<br /> +With angel Eloquence, such as can melt<br /> +His Heart of Flint, and move his former Kindness.<br /> +(<i>Aside.</i>) But if that fail, I will remove the Cause<br /> +Of both our Woes<span class="nowrap">——</span>Yes, that happy Charmer,<br /> +That Rival of my Love shall surely die.</p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> Doubt not of the Success; What Heart of Steel<br /> +Could e'er resist such Beauty dress'd in Tears?</p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>Enter a Servant.</i></p> +</div> + +<p><i>Serv.</i> Sir, Count <i>Bassino</i> enquires if you are within.</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Oh! Heavens! how I tremble!</p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> Lucky Opportunity<span class="nowrap">——</span>shew him up.<br /> +Madam, be pleas'd to step into that Closet.<br /> +Till I can sound the utmost of his Thoughts,<br /> +And shew him naked to your secret View,<br /> +Then when he's in the height of impious Passion,<br /> +You like a Bolt from Heav'n shall rush on him,<br /> +And strike his Folly dumb.</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Almighty Powers, whose providential Care<br /> +Is ever kind to virtuous Innocence,<br /> +Oh! help me now in this Extremity. <span class="ex">[<i>Exit</i> Placentia.</span></p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Bassino.</p> +</div> + +<p> +<i>Bass.</i> How does my Friend <i>Armando</i>?</p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> My Lord, <i>Armando</i>'s well,<br /> +And wishes you were so.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Dost thou discover aught that gives thee Cause +To doubt I am not well? Indeed I think +I am in perfect Health<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> My Lord, I should be glad +To find that Fever of your Mind abated +In which I left you last<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> (<i>Aside.</i>) I must dissemble now,<br /> +Else I'll ne'er gain my Ends—my dear <i>Armando</i>,<br /> +That Fever thou speak'st of, is now succeeded<br /> +By a cold Ague-Fit: The bare Remembrance<br /> +Of my unlawful Passion shakes my Soul.</p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> Such sudden Cures have often prov'd pernicious, +And we have Reason to suspect a Wound +Too quickly heal'd<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Not when thou know'st what Balsam I applied.</p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> There's scarce a Balm for the deep Wounds of Love, +Besides Possession, and I cannot think +You have enjoy'd <i>Aurelia</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> I swear I have not<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +But I enjoy my Reason, my free Reason:<br /> +And who possesses that, can never cherish<br /> +A Thought against himself: For such I call<br /> +Whatsoever keeps me from my lawful Wife,<br /> +My dear <i>Placentia</i>, to whose Arms I'll fly<br /> +With all the eager Haste of a fond Bridegroom.<br /> +There I shall revel in the virtuous Pleasures<br /> +Of a chaste Bed—Oh! my Friend <i>Armando</i>!<br /> +My dear <i>Placentia</i>'s Friend! can'st thou forgive?<br /> +Indeed I'm penitent, and will offend no more.</p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> My Lord, these are the Words you spoke before:<br /> +What greater Reason have I now to think<br /> +You'll keep your Promise?</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Pride, Honour, Justice are come to my Aid,<br /> +And Love too feeble to withstand 'em all,<br /> +Has left the Field to my victorious Reason.<br /> +Pride, with the Prospect of my future Greatness,<br /> +Allures me to return with Speed to <i>Turin</i>,<br /> +T'obey my Prince's Orders.<br /> +Honour and Justice tell me I'm <i>Placentia</i>'s,<br /> +And that <i>Aurelia</i> is <i>Alonzo</i>'s Bride.<br /> +To him she gave her Virgin Vows: Nay, more,<br /> +To him her dying Father did bequeath her;<br /> +He loves her too, and shall not be depriv'd:<br /> +My Passion is subdu'd, and I'm resolv'd<br /> +Myself to give <i>Aurelia</i> to <i>Alonzo</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> If this be true, then you are my Friend again:<br /> +But how came you to learn <i>Aurelia</i>'s<br /> +Engagement to <i>Alonzo</i>?</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> I have it from himself, who an Hour since,<br /> +With eager Fury sought to 'venge on me<br /> +His injur'd Love, and challeng'd me to fight:<br /> +I chose with Justice to defend my Life,<br /> +And quit <i>Aurelia</i>, rather than to vanquish<br /> +In such a Cause—<i>Alonzo</i> strait embrac'd me,<br /> +Call'd me his Friend, and vow'd I should not go,<br /> +Till I had seen him join'd in solemn Marriage<br /> +With bright <i>Aurelia</i><span class="nowrap">——</span>This I readily granted.<br /> +Canst thou believe me true?</p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> My Lord, I do believe you<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +And am o'erjoy'd to hear your Resolution:<br /> +By Heaven! there's more Glory in subduing<br /> +Our wild Desires, than an embattl'd Foe.<br /> +Now do I wish his Wife had never come. <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span></p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> <i>Armando</i>, thou'rt my Friend, and on that Score<br /> +I must desire you to repair to <i>Turin</i>,<br /> +With all the Speed you can, to bear these Letters<br /> +To our great Prince, and beg he will excuse<br /> +My stay for three Days more<span class="nowrap">——</span>And here this Letter<br /> +Bear to <i>Placentia</i><span class="nowrap">——</span>speak to her the kindest<br /> +The softest Things thy Fancy can suggest.<br /> +I shall make good thy Promise<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +My dear <i>Placentia</i>! Oh! that she were here,<br /> +Panting and warm within these longing Arms!<br /> +'Tis a long Age since I did see her last!<br /> +But come, my Friend, you must this Hour set forward.</p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> With all my Heart: But 'twill not be amiss,<br /> +Before I go, to fix the Victory,<br /> +Which conquering Virtue in your Breast has gain'd;<br /> +And if what you pretend be real Truth,<br /> +I have a welcome Present for <i>Bassino</i>.<br /> +Madam, come forth<span class="nowrap">——</span> +</p> + +<div class="center"> + <p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Placentia. + </p> +</div> + +<p> +<i>Bass.</i> What do I see! my Wife! This was a lucky Plot: <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span><br /> +Hypocrisy did ne'er befriend me more.<br /> +This was not like a Friend—why should <i>Armando</i><br /> +Disturb her soft Tranquility of Mind,<br /> +And give her ocular Proofs of my Disloyalty?<br /> +Oh! my <i>Placentia</i>! my beloved Wife! <span class="ex">[<i>Embraces her.</i></span><br /> +Oh! that I should e'er think to wrong my Dear!<br /></p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> My Lord, waste not a Sigh on my Account:<br /> +My Joys are infinite, since you are mine,<br /> +And what is past I easily forget.<br /> +Nay, let me beg for Pardon: For I know<br /> +I have offended you in coming hither.<br /> +I should have waited this Return of Virtue:<br /> +Or, if abandon'd, silently have mourn'd<br /> +My Loss, without upbraiding my lov'd Lord,<br /> +All this I should have done, but mighty Love,<br /> +Too powerful for Duty to withstand,<br /> +Guided my Steps to <i>Venice</i><span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +In hopes my Presence would retrieve your Heart.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Gods! that this Woman were <i>Aurelia</i>! <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span><br /> +Thou Wonder of thy Sex! thou best of Women!<br /> +I blush to think that thou hast heard my Folly:<br /> +Yet since your Love cancels your just Complaints,<br /> +You make me doubly blest: And I'll reward<br /> +This excellent Goodness with eternal Fondness.<br /> +Oh! that thou hadst been here! Not all the Beauties<br /> +That <i>Venice</i> holds could have diverted me;<br /> +No, not one Moment from my dear <i>Placentia</i>.<br /> +Long Absence is the Bane of new-born Love,<br /> +But Fate shall ne'er have Power to part us more.</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Oh! my dear Lord, your Goodness is too great:<br /> +And I'm o'er paid for all my Sorrows past.<br /> +<i>Armando</i>, say, is not he wondrous kind?</p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> Madam, I told you Virtue<br /> +Was struggling in his Breast; and that it might<br /> +O'ercome his vicious Love, I thought your Presence<br /> +Was requisite<span class="nowrap">——</span>And now, my Lord, I hope<br /> +You will forgive me, since all the Endeavours<br /> +I us'd before had been in vain. I once<br /> +Design'd to let <i>Aurelia</i> know your Marriage;<br /> +But then perhaps she would not have believ'd me:<br /> +Let this plead my Excuse in sending for <i>Placentia</i><br /> +Without your Knowledge.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> I must not let him see I am concern'd. <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span><br /> +I know 'twas Friendship all, well-meaning Friendship:<br /> +I only am to blame: But I'll retrieve<br /> +My Credit in your Heart, and still deserve<br /> +The Name of Friend—And thou, the best of Wives,<br /> +Shalt ne'er have Cause to doubt my constant Love.</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Oh! my <i>Bassino</i>! this Excess of Kindness<br /> +Exalts me o'er all Mortals, if you're true,<br /> +There's not a Blast within the Power of Fortune<br /> +Can shock my Happiness.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Thou shalt ne'er find me false, I swear thou shalt not.<br /> +Oh! that I could engage<br /> +She would return to <i>Turin</i> with <i>Armando</i>; <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span><br /> +For if she stays, I never can enjoy<br /> +My bright <i>Aurelia</i>, and by Heaven I will,<br /> +Altho' ten thousand Lives should pay the Purchase.</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> My Lord, you seem disturb'd.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> It troubles me<br /> +You can't appear in <i>Venice</i> with a Train<br /> +That may bespeak the Rank you hold in <i>Savoy</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> to <i>Arm.</i> Oh! <i>Armando</i>!<br /> +He is so kind, I with I ne'er had come!<br /> +What if I offer to return with you?<br /> +<br /> +<i>Arm.</i> Madam, you will do well;<br /> +For I myself cannot suspect him now.</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> My Lord, let not my Presence here disturb you,<br /> +I doubt your Love no more, and to convince you,<br /> +I will go back before 'tis known I'm here.<br /> +Besides, 'tis fit I should prepare all things<br /> +To welcome you at home.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> (<i>aside.</i>) Blest Opportunity!<br /> +Fortune I thank thee: Would my Dear then leave me<br /> +So very soon? Alas! 'twill be an Age<br /> +E'er I return to <i>Turin</i>: Three long Days!<br /> +No, my Dear, no; I will not part from thee,<br /> +At least this Night, my Love<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Will then <i>Armando</i> stay?</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> No, my best Hopes, he instantly departs<br /> +With Letters to my Prince.</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Then suffer me to go this very Moment.<br /> +Three Days will soon be o'er, and your Return,<br /> +Shall make me fully blest<span class="nowrap">——</span>If I should stay<br /> +'Twould look like base Distrust, and I can't think<br /> +<i>Bassino</i> would be false<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> (<i>aside.</i>) Oh! Heaven that I were not!</p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> Indeed, my Lord, I think you're truly happy.<br /> +Scarce does any Age produce so good a Wife.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Oh! that I could reward this wondrous Goodness!</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> My Lord, what makes you sigh?</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> To part from thee: But since 'tis your Desire,<br /> +It shall be so. <i>Armando</i>, to thy Charge<br /> +I here commit the Treasure of my Soul,<br /> +Take Care of her, and think that on her Safety<br /> +My Life depends.</p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> My Lord, I hope you do not doubt my Care.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Dear Friend, I do not<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +May Heaven's Blessings still attend my Love,<br /> +My dear <i>Placentia</i>.</p> +<p class="right">[<i>Embraces, and goes to lead her off.</i></p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> As many more guard my <i>Bassino</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> (<i>aside.</i>) A sudden Horror seizes all my Limbs:<br /> +I tremble at the Thought of this base Deed<span class="nowrap">——</span> +</p> + +<blockquote><p class="revind">[<i>Pulls out his Handkerchief and drops a Letter, which</i> +Armando <i>takes up</i>.</p></blockquote> + +<p> +Ha<span class="nowrap">——</span>Tears uncall'd for bathe my guilty Eyes<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +Gods! either give me Virtue to withstand<br /> +This impious Love, or Courage to pursue it<br /> +Without Remorse; for I'm but half a Villain.</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt</i> Bassino, Placent. +</p> + +<p><i>Arm. opens the Letter.</i> A Letter! and to <i>Aurelia</i>! now +Curiosity prompts me to know the Subject<span class="nowrap">——</span>What's +here?</p> + +<blockquote><p>Reads. <i>I have dispatch'd</i> Armando <i>to the Court of</i> Savoy, +<i>and found Pretence to stay behind</i><span class="nowrap">——</span></p></blockquote> + +<p class="noindent">False treacherous Man!</p> + +<blockquote><p class="noindent"><i>This Night I give a Mask at my Lodgings, which, +I hope, will divert</i> Alonzo, <i>till the Priest has +joined our Hands; and while all the Company are +engaged in Mirth, I'll steal to the dear Arms of my +divine</i> Aurelia.</p></blockquote> + +<p class="noindent">Oh! Villain, Villain! Monstrous Villain!<br /> +Oh! poor <i>Placentia</i>! But I will prevent<br /> +His Policy, and break his wicked Measures.</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exit</i> Armando.</p> + +<p> </p> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><span class="wide">SCENE II</span>. Pizalto's <i>Lodgings</i>.<br /> +<br /> +<i>Enter</i> Pizalto <i>solus</i>.</p> +</div> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> Why, what makes this young Jade stay so long? +Adod, this is to pay before hand<span class="nowrap">——</span>Ha<span class="nowrap">——</span>methinks +I hear a Laughing and Giggling in my Wife's Apartment; +I must know whence their Mirth proceeds. +Ho! here's <i>Lucy</i> coming<span class="nowrap">——</span>Harkee you, pray, why +did you make me wait so long? Nay, I'm resolved you +shan't escape me now<span class="nowrap">——</span>[<i>Goes to the Door, and pulls +in</i> Ludovico <i>in</i> Lucy'<i>s Cloaths, whose Commode falls off in +the Struggle, and discovers his bald Head</i>.] Oh! Benedicite! +What have we here? A Man disguis'd in my +Wife's Chamber! and I unarm'd! Oh! Curst Minute!<span class="nowrap">——</span>Speak, +thou wicked Prophet, thou Son of Iniquity, +what camest thou here for? Ha<span class="nowrap">——</span>Thou Priest +of <i>Baal</i>, to offer Sacrifices on the Altar of my Wife? +Oh! my Head! my Horns weigh it down to the Ground +already<span class="nowrap">——</span>Within there, bring me my Sword and +Pistols.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> A Pox on all Petticoats<span class="nowrap">——</span>What a Devil shall +I say now? Oh! for a Sword! that would be of more +Use to me now than my Tongue.</p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>Enter Lady</i> Pizalto.</p> +</div> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> Oh! thou wicked fallacious Woman!</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> What ails my dear Chucky? Why dost thou +call for Arms, Deary?</p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> To cut down that vile Creeper which over-runs +thy Garden of Virtue<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> [<i>aside.</i>] Now Impudence assist me.<br /> +Ah! Heavens! What's here? A Man in Disguise? A +Thief it must be<span class="nowrap">——</span>Raise the Servants<span class="nowrap">——</span>Oh! Heaven! +we might have had all our Throats cut in our +Beds<span class="nowrap">——</span>—Now for <i>Lucy</i>, for I am at a Loss to come off. +<span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span></p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> No, no, I warrant, you know he is more gentle +in Bed.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> [<i>aside.</i>] Oh! the Devil, what does she mean? +Death, Hell and Furies! if I come off now, catch me +at this Sport again, and hang me<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Lucy.</p> +</div> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> Oh! are you there. Mistress? How came +this Man here in your Cloaths? Ha! Gentlewoman—</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> [<i>aside.</i>] How confidently she asks the Question, +poor Lady? as if she knew nothing of it! Now must I +bring her off—For Reasons you must not know, Madam.</p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> Ah! Thou wicked Pair of Bellows to blow the +Fire of Iniquity! Why, thou art the very Casement +thro' which thy Mistress sucks the Air of Abomination—Tell +me, I say, how he came here, and for what<span class="nowrap">——</span>and +be sure it be a substantial Lie, or 'twill not pass.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> [<i>aside</i>] All my Hopes are in her Impudence.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy</i> to <i>Pizal</i>. Harkee, Sir, one Word with you<span class="nowrap">——</span>Do +you remember our Agreement To-night?</p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> Why, what of that? ha<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Then imagine what I design'd that Gentleman +for; I'm honest, Sir, that's all<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> I'm honest, Sir, that's all—[<i>Mimicking her Tone.</i>] +Honest! with a Pox<span class="nowrap">——</span>What! and so you honestly +provided a Companion for my Wife in my Absence—ha<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> No, Sir, I design'd him for your Companion in +my Absence<span class="nowrap">——</span>This is the Business he was drest for: +Therefore no more Words, but believe my Lady honest, +or all shall out.</p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> Oh! the Devil! this shan't pass, Hussy<span class="nowrap">——</span>Do +you think I'll be cuckolded, jilted, bubbled, and let it pass +for a <i>Christmas</i> Gambol. Adod, give me my Bond +again, or<span class="nowrap">——</span>or<span class="nowrap">——</span> </p> +<p class="right">[<i>Holds up his Cane.</i></p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> No<span class="nowrap">——</span>hold there, Sir: Women and Lawyers +ne'er refund a fee: But 'tis your best Way to be patient +now, I'll not take Blows.</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> Why all this Whispering? Why mayn't I +know the Business?</p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> I am mistaken if you have not known too much +Business already: But I am right enough serv'd<span class="nowrap">——</span>I +had more Ground before than I could manage; I had +no Need of my Neighbour's.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Right, my Lord; Ground that lies fallow will +breed Weeds in Time; but you'rs is clear yet.</p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> Damn your Jests; I shall expect a better Account, +do you hear? I'll find a Servant to see you out of +Doors. [<i>To</i> Ludovico.</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt</i> Pizalto <i>and Lady</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Well, this was an admirable Lift at a Pinch—She +has brought me off now<span class="nowrap">——</span>And if e'er they catch +me at this Music again, I'll give 'em Leave to make +an <i>Italian</i> Singer of me<span class="nowrap">——</span>No more Intrigues in +Disguise<span class="nowrap">——</span>if it had not been for the Waiting-Woman +now, I might have been hang'd for a +Thief.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> What all amort, Signior, no Courage left?</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Faith, not much<span class="nowrap">——</span>I think I have lost +my Manhood with my Breeches<span class="nowrap">——</span>This Transformation +may suit with Gods, but not with Mortals of +my Humour<span class="nowrap">——</span>Come, prithee, good Mistress +<i>Lucy</i>, help me to my proper Shape again; for tho' +I have a natural Inclination to Petticoats, I hate 'em +upon my own back.</p> +<p class="right">[<i>A Flourish of Music Within.</i></p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Hark! I hear Count <i>Bassino</i>'s Music: He gives +a Mask To-night; you are already drest for Masquerade, +won't you stay and take a Dance?</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Egad, I'd rather dance a Jig with thee elsewhere: +Faith thou'rt a pretty Girl—and hast a good +deal of Wit too<span class="nowrap">——</span>But then, Pox on't, thour't honest, +thou sayeth, thou cannot swallow a Pill, except 'tis +gilded over with Matrimony.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> And that turns your Stomach, I warrant.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Why, Ay: Faith my Stomach is damn'd squeemish +in these matters: Yet, egad, if I could find one with +half as much Money as thou hast Wit and Beauty, I'd +marry, and live honest.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> That is, you'd marry her Money<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> One with the other, Child: There's no living +upon Love thou knowest<span class="nowrap">——</span>Tho' Faith I could +live well enough too.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Well, suppose I help you to a Lady with a round +Sum; you'd keep your Word, and marry her?</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> I am a Gentleman, I scorn to break my Word.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Well, Sir, come to the Mask, and I'll engage +you a Mistress, if you are not over-curious.</p> + +<p> +<i>Lud.</i> With all my Heart:<br /> +<span class="ind1">I'm now resolv'd to leave this Wenching-Trade;</span><br /> +For no man's safe upon a Hackney Jade;<br /> +Th' Allay of Danger makes the Pleasure Pain,<br /> +A Virtuous Wife will always be same.<br /> +</p> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>The End of the Fourth Act.</i></p> +</div> +</blockquote> +<p> </p> +<hr class="narrow" /> +<p> </p> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><span class="wide"><b>ACT V. SCENE I.</b></span></p></div> + +<blockquote> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><span class="big"><i>A Mask in</i> Bassino<i>'s Lodgings</i>.</span><br /> +<br /> +Bassino, Alonzo, Armando, <i>in a Disguise</i>; Placentia <i>in<br /> +Man's Cloaths, Signior</i> Pizalto, <i>Lady</i> Pizalta, Lucy, &c.<br /> +<br /> +<i>An Entry of three Men and three Women of several Nations.</i></p> +</div> + +<p> +<i>Bass.</i> I can't imagine where I dropt my Letter:<br /> +Pray Heaven it be where none can ever find it.<br /> +Gods! Let me once enjoy her, then call on me<br /> +Your Store of Plagues, and I will meet 'em all.<br /> +</p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Ludovico, <i>singing</i>.</p> +</div> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Ah! Mistress <i>Lucy</i>! I'm come thou see'st<span class="nowrap">——</span>I +expect thou shalt be as good as thy Word, Child<span class="nowrap">——</span>is +the Lady here?</p> + +<p><i><ins title="original has Lud">Lucy.</ins></i> The Lady is forth-coming, if you are still in +the same Mind?</p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> My Lover here! Harkee, <i>Lucy</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> By and by, Madam, I am catering for myself +now<span class="nowrap">——</span>Well, Sir, will two thousand Pistoles do?</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> I must humour her<span class="nowrap">——</span>[<i>Aside.</i>] Ay Child.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Why then I take you at your Word, Sir, and +can produce the aforesaid Sum<span class="nowrap">——</span>[<i>To</i> Piz.] With a little +of your Assistance, My Lord.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> (<i>aside.</i>) Hum<span class="nowrap">——</span>A pretty Wife I am like to +have<span class="nowrap">——</span>Catch me there if you can<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> Ha<span class="nowrap">——</span>How's that?</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> How! Mistress <i>Lucy</i>, worth two thousand Pistoles?</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Ay: And I have a very good Pay-master for one +Half of it too—Do you know this Hand, my Lord? +[<i>To</i> Pizalto.] (<i>Shews the Bond.</i>)</p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> (<i>aside.</i>) Confound your jilting Sneer.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> Ha, ha, ha<span class="nowrap">——</span>What, a thousand Pistoles a +Dish, my Lord? I hope you don't change often, ha<span class="nowrap">——</span>ha<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> Hussy, I'll be reveng'd<span class="nowrap">——</span>'Tis all false, 'tis +counterfeit.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Ha—ha—But it had been current Coin, if I had +suffer'd you to put your Stamp upon't<span class="nowrap">——</span>in my Bed-chamber, +my Lord<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> How, Mistress, have you trick'd my Husband +out of a thousand Pistoles, and never told me of it?</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Nay, Madam, don't frown<span class="nowrap">——</span>Remember +you have trick'd him out of something too, which I +never told him of—Don't urge me to more Discoveries.</p> + +<p><i>Lud.</i> (<i>aside.</i>) So<span class="nowrap">——</span>Here's Trick upon Trick: +But, Faith, you shall never trick me out of my Liberty. +I'm not so fond of a Wife to marry a Chamber-maid, +tho' with ten Times as much Money: And so, sweet +Mistress <i>Abigail</i>, your humble Servant. <span class="ex">[<i>Exit</i> Ludovico.</span></p> + +<p>L. <i>Piz.</i> (<i>aside.]</i>) The Jade has me upon the Hip—I +must be silent.</p> + +<div class="center"> +<table class="i" style="margin: 0 auto" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" summary="poetry"> +<tr><td align="left">She who has her Husband's Bed abus'd,</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">Can ne'er expect she should be better us'd.</td></tr> +</table> +</div> + +<p class="right">[Exit.</p> + +<p><i>Lucy.</i> Ha<span class="nowrap">——</span>What! my Lover gone! With all my +Heart: Better now than after; for whilst I have my +Fortune in my own Hands, I must have no Need to +sue for a separate Maintenance, and get nothing for it +neither.</p> + +<p> +<i>Arm.</i> to <i>Pla.</i> Now, Madam, go: May Heaven be propitious<br /> +To your Designs: I'll stay and watch <i>Bassino</i>:<br /> +And when he goes, will follow with <i>Alonzo</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Oh! my sick Fancy frames a thousand Forms,<br /> +Which tell me that our Meeting will prove fatal.<br /> +And warn me not to go, what shall I do?<br /> +Must I bear calmly my <i>Bassino</i>'s Loss?<br /> +Why do I tremble thus?<br /> +Sure it can't be the Fear of Death<span class="nowrap">——</span>No, for if<br /> +I go not I must lose him, and that's more<br /> +Than Death to me<span class="nowrap">——</span>and if I go, I can but fall,<br /> +And Life without him is the greater Woe,<br /> +Therefore I'll on, I'll use the softest Words<br /> +That Tongue can frame to sooth her into Pity,<br /> +And dissuade her from this impious Marriage.<br /> +If I succeed I am compleatly happy,<br /> +If not, I'd rather die than live with Hate,<br /> +But first, curst Rival, thou shalt share my Fate.<br /> + <span class="ex">[<i>Exit</i> Placentia.</span></p> + +<div class="center"><p><i>A Flourish of Musick.</i></p></div> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> 'Tis now the Time<span class="nowrap">——</span>but whither do I go?<br /> +Shall I a Maid, a Wife, a Friend betray?<br /> +No matter<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +All Arguments are vain, where Love bears Sway.<br /> + <span class="ex">[<i>Exit</i> Bassino.</span></p> +<p> </p> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent">A SONG.</p> +<table class="i" style="margin: 0 auto" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" summary="poetry"> +<tr><td align="left">When the Winds rage, and the Seas grow high,</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><span class="ind1">They bid Mankind beware,</span></td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">But when they smooth and calm the Sky,</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><span class="ind1">'Tis then they would ensnare.</span></td></tr> +<tr><td> </td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">So the bright <span class="norm">Thais</span> Kindness shows,</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><span class="ind1">By frowning on her Lovers,</span></td></tr> +<tr><td align="left">For Ruin only from her flows,</td></tr> +<tr><td align="left"><span class="ind1">When she her Charms discovers.</span></td></tr> +</table> +</div> + +<p><i>Piz.</i> Come now, Gentlemen and Ladies, be pleas'd +to walk into the next Room, and take a small Collation—But +where's my Lord <i>Bassino</i>? Come, Gentlemen, +he's gone before us.</p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> Where we will quickly follow. (<i>Aside.</i>) <i>Alonzo</i>, +a Word with you— <br /> + <span class="ex">[<i>Exit Omnes</i>.</span></p> + +<p> </p> +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent">SCENE II.<br /> +<br /> +<i>A Chamber in</i> Aurelia's <i>House</i>.<br /> +<br /> +<i>Two Arm-Chairs.</i> Aurelia <i>sola</i>.</p> +</div> +<p> +<i>Aur.</i> I wonder much at my <i>Bassino</i>'s Stay:<br /> +Oh! Love! how swiftly fly thy Hours away<br /> +When we are blest! How tedious are thy Minutes<br /> +When cruel Absence parts two longing Lovers!<br /> +</p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Florella.</p> +</div> + +<p class="noindent">Is my <i>Bassino</i> come? speak<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +</p> + +<p><i>Flor.</i> No, Madam, a young Stranger desires to speak +with you: He says, you are not acquainted with his +Name, but will soon with his Business, which is something +of great Import, that can be told to none but +yourself.</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> A Stranger Business with me! I know of none<br /> +I have with Strangers—Heaven! what's this?<br /> +I feel a sudden Throbbing in my Heart,<br /> +As if 'twas conscious of some fatal News— <span class="ex">[<i>Aside.</i></span><br /> +Womanish Fears<span class="nowrap">——</span>Admit him—(<i>Exit</i> Florella) it must be<br /> +One of <i>Bassino</i>'s Friends, whom he intrusts<br /> +To be a Witness of our Marriage Vows.<br /> +</p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Placentia, <i>in Man's Cloaths</i>.</p> +</div> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Madam, I was inform'd that Count <i>Bassino</i><br /> +Was to be here—and having Things t'impart<br /> +That much concern him, I made bold to come<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Sir, I expect him straight—if you're his Friend<br /> +I will account you mine—Be pleas'd to sit. <span class="ex">[<i>Both sit.</i></span></p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> My Brother, Madam, is extremely happy<br /> +In being favour'd by so fair a Lady<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Your Brother, Sir! is then my Lord your brother?</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Madam, he is.</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Then I may call you Brother too;<br /> +For all the solemn Vows of Love have pass'd<br /> +'Twixt him and me—And blissful <i>Hymen</i> waits<br /> +With lighted Torch to tie the sacred Knot,<br /> +Which shall be done this Hour<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> This Hour! say you? Oh! Madam, have a Care:<br /> +You tread inchanted Ground, and e'er you know<br /> +What Path you take, you're hurried to Destruction.</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Where lies the Danger?</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Oh! 'Tis a fatal Tale, yet you must hear it;<br /> +Therefore summon your Courage to your Aid,<br /> +For you will need it all, whilst I relate<br /> +The fatal Story<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Ah! how I tremble!<br /> +Say, is he dead? has any murderous Villain<br /> +Kill'd my <i>Bassino</i>?</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> No—he is well in Health: but his distemper'd Mind<br /> +Is of a wild and feverish Disposition,<br /> +Longing to taste, what tasted will undo him.</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Your Speech is all a Riddle: Pray speak plainer:<br /> +But yet, e'er you proceed, if Count <i>Bassino</i> lives,<br /> +I care not what must follow, since he's mine.</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> No, he's not yours—Nor ever must.</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> 'Tis false<span class="nowrap">——</span>There's not a Pow'r on Earth<br /> +<span class="ind2"> </span> can part us:<br /> +Perhaps,<br /> +You think my Blood too base to mix with yours<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +But, Sir, your Brother loves me, and in Love<br /> +All Ranks are equal<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> No<span class="nowrap">——</span>I wish that were all:<br /> +But there's a greater Obstacle<span class="nowrap">——</span>He—is—married—<br /> +Oh! Gods! unfortunately married!</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Married!</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Yes,<span class="nowrap">——</span>Married<span class="nowrap">——</span>to my Sister,<br /> +To my unfortunate, abandon'd Sister.<br /> +Oh! do not you conspire t'undo her quite;<br /> +It is enough, she's false <i>Bassino</i>'s Wife.</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Gods! Married!<br /> +And is it possible! Oh! faithless Men!<br /> +Oh! Truth! Oh! Justice! Whither are you fled?<br /> +Now all my Fears and Horrors are explain'd.</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> I'm glad I reach'd this Place in Time, to hinder<br /> +Those Ills that must have waited on your Marriage,<br /> +Now it is in your Power, both to be happy,<br /> +And, in some Measure, make my Sister so. <span class="ex">[<i>Both rise.</i></span></p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> A Paradox in Nature<span class="nowrap">——</span>Bid <i>Aurelia</i><br /> +Be happy, when you rob her of her Heaven!<br /> +Her dear <i>Bassino</i>!<br /> +Indeed your Sister may be counted happy,<br /> +If she's his Wife—Ha—Wife—by Heaven! 'tis false—<br /> +No, no—He has no other Wife but me<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +He is not married, you bely him basely<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +He cannot be so treacherous<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Madam, I swear, whate'er I said is Truth—<br /> +Do but defer this Marriage for a Day,<br /> +And if I don't produce convincing Proofs,<br /> +May all the Plagues a Woman can invent<br /> +Fall on my perjur'd Head<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Defer our Marriage—No, by Heaven I will not.<br /> +I can't suspect him—Neither do I think<br /> +You durst maintain this Story to his Face.</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Madam, I dare; nay, which is more, I'll die,<br /> +Or vindicate my injur'd Sister's Honour<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Bold Arrogance!<br /> +Oh! That he were but here to answer the Affront!<br /> +Perhaps he may have wrong'd your Family:<br /> +Debauch'd your Sister; for which you would force him<br /> +To marry her?<span class="nowrap">——</span>But, I must tell thee, Boy,<br /> +He's mine already: nor would he forsake me<br /> +To hold Command o'er all the Universe.</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Oh! Heaven! must I bear this!</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Nay, expect more, if he should find you here,<br /> +'Tis not your being Brother to his Mistress,<br /> +That will secure you from his just Revenge.</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Revenge! Nay, then away with all Disguise,<br /> +Pity be gone<span class="nowrap">——</span>And in its Room fell Rage<br /> +Take place, that I may dash that haughty Insolence<br /> +That dares to treat me thus—Know, Madam,<br /> +I am his Wife—his lawful wedded Wife.<br /> +With borrow'd Shape I came to try your Virtue,<br /> +Which I have found so light that the least Puff<br /> +Of wanton Love will blast it<span class="nowrap">——</span>Else my Visit<br /> +Had met a better Welcome—Here with Sword in Hand<br /> +I'll wait his coming, <span class="ex">[<i>Draws.</i></span><br /> +And as he enters, pierce thy haughty Breast.<br /> +I know he loves thee, and therefore 'tis brave<br /> +Revenge to let him see thy dying Pangs:<br /> +Thy parting Sighs will rack him worse than Hell.</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> His Wife! Oh! Insolence!<br /> +In vain you waste your Breath, it moves not me:<br /> +So much I love him, so much I'm belov'd,<br /> +That should an Angel from yon Heaven descend,<br /> +To tell me he's marry'd, I'd not credit him,<br /> +Kill me if you dare—He will revenge my Death:<br /> +That pleasing Thought gives Courage to my Soul:<br /> +To live without him would be Death indeed!<br /> +No—he'll ne'er leave me for a common Thing,<br /> +For such I'm sure thou art<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Common! Proud Wretch<span class="nowrap">——</span>by Heaven that<br /> +<span class="ind2"> </span>Word gives Wings<br /> +To my Revenge—Vile Creature, die— <span class="ex">[<i>Stabs her.</i></span></p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Help,—Murder, murder<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<div class="center"><p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Bassino.</p></div> + +<p> +<i>Bass.</i> Ha—That to thy Heart<span class="nowrap">——</span>[<i>Kills</i> Plac.] Wer't<br /> +<span class="ind2"> </span>thou a Demi-god<br /> +And durst attempt this Shrine, thus should'st thou fall—</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> (<i>Falling.</i>) Oh! <i>Bassino</i>! Oh!</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Oh! hold, my Lord, what has your Rashness done?<br /> +I only should have dy'd<span class="nowrap">——</span>I'll not upbraid<br /> +Your Treachery—No, 'tis the Hand of Heaven<br /> +That guides the Stroke that takes my guilty Life,<br /> +For being faithless to <i>Alonzo</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Talk not of Death, my fair, my dear <i>Aurelia</i>;<br /> +That very Sound does harrow up my Soul.<br /> +But who art thou, whose sacrilegious Hand<br /> +Durst to profane the Temple of my Love?</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> I am your Wife—Your loving Wife <i>Placentia</i>.<br /> +Oh! pardon this rash Deed; blame jealous Love—<br /> +And grace me with a Sigh, that I may die contented.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> My Wife! and kill'd by me!<br /> +Under what Load of Miseries I stand!<br /> +Oh! Horror! Horror! Infinity of Guilt!<br /> +Hurl now your vengeful Bolts, Almighty Powers,<br /> +On my devoted Head!<br /> +Oh! I have wrong'd you both: Deceiv'd you basely:<br /> +Thus prostrate on the Ground, let me beg Pardon:<br /> + <span class="ex">[<i>Throws himself on the Ground.</i></span><br /> +I do not ask it with Design to live.</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Oh! dear <i>Bassino</i> live:<br /> +And try to save her, for she's innocent:<br /> +We only are in Fault<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +I urg'd my wretched Fate with impious Language,<br /> +For which I beg Forgiveness: Generous Lady,<br /> +Let not my Soul depart with Guilt opprest.</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> As I forgive you, so may Heaven me.</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Oh! <i>Placentia</i>! Oh! my Wife!</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> One thing more, and I'm happy<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +Were but <i>Alonzo</i> here, that I might ask<br /> +Forgiveness for my Falshood! But, alas!<br /> +My Spirits faint within my frozen Veins,<br /> +And every Thing seems double to my Sight:<br /> +Oh! How I dread the uncertain future State!</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Unhappy Maid! Oh! my once dear <i>Aurelia</i>!<br /> +Curst, Curst <i>Bassino</i>! Oh! my Wife! How dare<br /> +I stand the View of both these injured Women!<br /> +Oh! Heaven! Why name I Heaven! Heaven will not hear<br /> +A Wretch like me<span class="nowrap">——</span>No, even Hell wants Torment<br /> +Proportion'd to my Guilt—Oh! my <i>Placentia</i>! Oh!</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Oh! my dear Lord, I <ins title="original has connot">cannot</ins> see you thus:<br /> +Live, live, my Lord; be happy when I'm dead.<br /> +Nay, for your Sake, I with <i>Aurelia</i> too<br /> +May live to make you happy<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Oh! Hold!<br /> +Heap not more Curses on me by your Kindness;<br /> +I wish that she might live, but not for me.<br /> +Only to clear me from her guilty Blood<span class="nowrap">——</span>Oh! <i>Placentia</i>!</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> Rise, my Lord, rise: Do not indulge your Woe,<br /> +Your Sighs atone for all, and make e'en Death a pleasure<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +I see him coming, he will soon be here<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> No, I will never rise: ne'er see the Day.<br /> +The Sun would blush to shine on such an impious Wretch.<br /> +Here let me lie, and tear with these curst Hands<br /> + <span class="ex">[<i>Tears the Ground in a distracted Manner.</i></span><br /> +A Passage thro' the Earth, and hide my Face for ever.</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> (<i>Within.</i>) Where where's this Villain? Where's <i>Bassino</i>?</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> 'Tis <i>Alonzo</i>'s Voice.<br /> +Oh! fly, my Lord, fly from his just Revenge.</p> + +<div class="center"><p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Alonzo <i>hastily</i>.</p></div> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Fly<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +Where shall I fly from Justice? No, Heaven is kind<br /> +In sending him to help my Journey forward.</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Where's <i>Bassino</i>?</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> (<i>Rising.</i>) Here Sir, I stand.</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Then there stands a Villain<span class="nowrap">——</span>Ha—what<br /> +Do I see!<span class="nowrap">——</span><i>Aurelia</i> murder'd!<br /> +Oh! treacherous Maid, thy Love has cost thee dear,<br /> +Think on thy broken Vows, and call to Heaven for Mercy.<br /> +Thy Death I will revenge, because I lov'd thee once.</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Oh! <i>Alonzo</i>, pardon me.</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> to <i>Bass.</i> Now Villain, now what Story, what Pretence<br /> +Canst thou invent to avoid my just Revenge?<br /> +Oh! that I ne'er had list'ned to thy Tongue!<br /> +Thy base perfidious Tongue! Then all these Murders<br /> +Had been prevented, and thou curst in Hell<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +Thou monstrous Fiend<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> You talk too much—Let's see what you can do:<br /> +Thus I return your Villain<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Take thy Reward.</p> +<p class="right">[<i>They fight</i>, Bassino <i>falls</i>.</p> + +<div class="center"> +<p class="noindent"><i>Enter</i> Armando.</p></div> + +<p> +<i>Arm.</i> Hold! hold: Oh Gods! I'm come too late,<br /> +What has my fatal Friendship done!<br /> +Ha<span class="nowrap">——</span><i>Placentia</i> too—curst Letter!</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> My Friend <i>Armando</i>! Oh! I blush to see thee:<br /> +But let me have your Pardon<span class="nowrap">——</span>now I need it.</p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> Oh! first pardon me<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +For I have been the Cause of all this Mischief.<br /> +Whilst my officious Friendship strives to save you,<br /> +I bring you all to this unhappy End.<br /> +Say, can you pardon me?</p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> I do<span class="nowrap">——</span><br /> +And Oh! my Friend! had Virtue been my Guide,<br /> +As it was thine, I still were truly happy.</p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Where am I?<br /> +Why do I hover thus 'twixt Rest and Misery?<br /> +Oh! good <i>Alonzo</i>, say you pardon me,<br /> +And let me die in Peace, else full of Horror<br /> +My guilty Soul must wander in the Shades<br /> +Of gloomy Night, and never, never rest.</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Thou hast my Pardon, and with it this Promise<br /> +Never to love again<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Aur.</i> Oh! you're<span class="nowrap">——</span>too<span class="nowrap">——</span>kind—and I want—<br /> +Breath to thank<span class="nowrap">——</span>you<span class="nowrap">——</span>Farewel, <span class="ex">[<i>Dies.</i></span></p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Oh! <i>Placentia</i>!<span class="ex">[<i>Embraces her.</i></span><br /> +Thus in thy Arms my Thread of Life shall break.</p> + +<p><i>Pla.</i> My Lord, my Husband, Oh! come nearer yet,<br /> +That I may take a parting Kiss, to smooth<br /> +My Passage to the Realms of endless Night. <span class="ex">[<i>Kissing him.</i></span><br /> +So—Now—I die<span class="nowrap">——</span>much happier than I lived.<br /> +Farewel<span class="nowrap">——</span> <span class="ex">[<i>Dies.</i></span></p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> Farewel, fair Excellence! Thou best of Wives!<br /> +But I shall quickly follow—Yet before I go,<br /> +I beg, <i>Alonzo</i>, let my Death atone<br /> +For all the Injuries my Life has done you.<br /> +Oh! spare my Memory, when I'm no more.</p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> By Heaven!<br /> +I see such Virtue struggling in thy Breast,<br /> +As makes me wish I could prevent the Flight<br /> +Of thy departing Soul<span class="nowrap">——</span></p> + +<p><i>Bass.</i> No, No<span class="nowrap">——</span>I would not live:<br /> +Hadst thou not come, my Hand had set me free,<br /> +But now I fell more nobly, and less guilty.<br /> +My Friend, my dear <i>Armando</i>,<br /> +Haste to inform my Prince, <i>Bassino</i> rests;<br /> +But hide, if possible, my Shame: And let<br /> +One Grave hold both this wretched Corps and mine,<br /> +Oh! my <i>Placentia</i><span class="nowrap">——</span> <span class="ex">[<i>Dies.</i></span></p> + +<p><i>Alon.</i> Unhappy Pair! But far more wretched me!<br /> +For I must live, and live without <i>Aurelia</i>!<br /> +Tho' I'm convinc'd she lov'd me not, I can't<br /> +Banish her Image from my Love-sick Mind.<br /> +Oh! that I ne'er had seen the charming Fair!</p> + +<p><i>Arm.</i> The Gods are just in all their Punishments:<br /> +And by this single Act, we plainly see<br /> +That Vengeance always treads on Perjury;<br /> +And tho' sometimes no Bolts be at us hurl'd,<br /> +Whilst we enjoy the Pleasures of this World;<br /> +Yet a Day awaits, a Day of general Doom,<br /> +When guilty Souls must to an Audit come;<br /> +Then that we may not tremble, blush, or fear,<br /> +Let our Desires be just; our Lives unsullied here.</p> + +<p class="right">[<i>Exeunt omnes.</i></p> + +</blockquote> + +<div class="center"> +<table style="margin: 0 auto" cellpadding="4" summary="Illustration"> + <tr> + <td align="center"> + <a href="images/taila.jpg"> + <img src="images/taila.jpg" width="180" + alt="DECORATION" /></a> + </td> + </tr> +</table> +</div> +<p> </p> +<table class="sm" border="0" style="background-color: #E6F6FA; margin: 0 auto" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="4" summary="NOTES"> +<tr> +<td colspan="2"> + <div class="center">TRANSCRIBER'S NOTE</div> + +<p class="noindent" style="background-color: #E6F6FA"> +Contemporary spellings and hyphenation have been retained, even where +inconsistent; so the text contains both, e.g. thou'rt and thour't, +you'rs and your's.<br /> +<br /> +At the very beginning of Act 5, Scene 1, a speech wrongly given to Ludovic +has been assigned to Lucy in keeping with the logic of the dialogue.<br /> +<br /> +Two obvious typographical errors were corrected: "Reputatron" became +"Reputation" in Act 2, Scene 2 (Ludovic); "connot" was changed to +"cannot" in Act 4, Scene 1 (Placentia).<br /> +<br /> +Along with the two additional changes listed below, these corrections can be identified +in the body of the text by a grey dotted underline:</p> +</td> +</tr> +<tr> + <td class="w50" align="left" valign="top">In vain I strive to check my new-born Love, cannot, cannot +live without <i>Bassino</i></td> +<td align="left" valign="top">In vain I strive to check my new-born Love, <b>I</b> cannot, cannot + live without <i>Bassino</i></td> +</tr> + +<tr> + <td align="left" valign="top">What would you say now, Madam, if I should contrive a Way to + have your Lover in your own own Chamber?</td> + <td align="left" valign="top">What would you say now, Madam, if I should contrive a Way to + have your Lover in your <b>own</b> Chamber?</td> +</tr> +</table> + + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of Project Gutenberg's The Perjur'd Husband, by Susanna Centlivre + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE PERJUR'D HUSBAND *** + +***** This file should be named 38931-h.htm or 38931-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + https://www.gutenberg.org/3/8/9/3/38931/ + +Produced by Delphine Lettau and the Online Distributed +Proofreading Canada Team at http://www.pgdpcanada.net (This +book was produced from scanned images of public domain +material from the Google Book Search project.) + + +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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