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THE
POETICAL WORKS
OF
SIR WILLIAM ALEXANDER,
EARL OF STIRLING, d-r.
NOW FIRST COLLECTED AND EDITED,
WITH MEMOIR AND NOTES.
IN THREE VOLUMES.
VOL. II.
4 fi " ^ •■
GLASGOW: MAURICE OGLE & CO.
1872,
GLASGOW:
i'KINTED BY BELL AND BAIN,
41 MITCHELL STREET.
2^3 ^^
CONTENTS OF VOLUME II.
PAGE
The Tragedy of Darivs, i
The Alexandrian Tragedy, 87
The Tragedy of Jvlivs C/Esar, . . . .211
MISCELLANEOUS PIECES.
Some Verses written at the Time of His Maiesties
First Entrie into England, .... 327
Some Verses written by Reason of an Inundation
OF Douen, 329
To M. Michaell Drayton, 331
A Reply to the King, 332
A Sonnet by King James VI., 333
On the Death of Mr. John Murray, . . .335
On the Report of the Death of Drummond of
Hawthornden, 336
To His Worthy Friend, Master Walter Quin, . 338
Sonnet, 339
To Mr. Edward Allane, 340
Attributed Poem, 342
THE TRAGEDY OF
DARIVS.
VOL. II.
THE ARGUMENT.
Darius, tlie fourteenth from Cyi'iis, King of Posin, being,
after the death of Occhus, for his singular valour, from the
government of Armenia, advanced to the Persian Empire,
became so arrogant (a good successe as it were setting him
forward to confusion) as he sent to demand tribute of Philip,
then King of Macedonia, \\\\o, lieing of a hauty nature (and
inferiour to none of that age in courage, or for military dis-
cipline), requited this contumelious message with as disdainefull
an answer; threatning that he would come and deliver it in
Persepolis. But being prevented by death, he left the execution
of his designe to his Sonne Alexander, who for the great victories
whicli thereafter he obtained, was sumamed the great. He,
inheriting the hatred of his father towards Darius, and farre
surmounting him in ambition, past in person to Asia, with an
army of thirty thousand men onely.
After his arrivall, Darius wrote to him in a proud and con-
temptible manner, ascribing to himselfe the title of the King of
Kings, and kinsman of the Gods, and naming Alexander his
servant ; hee also, in vaunting mannei", bragged that he would
have that mad boy, the sonne of Philip (for so in derision he
termed him), bound, and beaten with roddes, and after brought
to his presence apparelled like a prince. For performance
whereof he directed one of his minions, with forty thousand men,
to make impediment to his passage at the river of Granick,
where, by the wonderfull valour of Alexander, they were over-
throwne.
Darius being advertised of this, came himselfe in proper
]5erson, accompanied with infinite (Init evill ordered) numbers,
and encountred Alexander beside Isso, in the strait of Cilicia,
where, having fought a doubtfuU and bloudy battell, in end by
tlie invincible valour and never-failing fortune of Alexander, his
army was defeated, himselfe put to flight, and his mother, wife,
and children made captives. Who were most courteously
entertained by Alexander, who, notwithstanding their exceeding
The Argiuiieut. 3
great beauty, yet would not abuse them, nor suffer them to bee
abused by others, nor visited he them more then once (and that
to comfort them) all the time of their imprisonment.
'Darius, notwithstanding of all his losses (his courage being
in the full, whilst his fortune was in the waine), wrote vevy
proudly to Alexander, taking still the title of a king to himselfe,
but not giving it to him, offering him as much gold as Macedon
could containe, for ransome of the captives. Which being very
disdainfully refused by Alexander, he having re-enforced his
troupes, and comming fonvard to fight with greater force then
before, was informed how his wife had died in prison, whose
death he bewailed with exceeding great sorrow. And under-
standing what courtesie Alexander had used towards her, he
sent to sue for peace, not for any feare of his force, but allured
(as he alledged) by his courtesie. This sute being likewise
rejected, he fought beside Arhella, with no better fortune then
before.
Yet for all these misfortunes, being of an invincible courage,
and despairing of peace, he re-assembled all his forces, which
were augmented by the comming of the Baetrians, and was
comming forward, with intention at last either to dye or prevaile.
But in the meanetime, two traiterous subjects of his owne,
Beshis, whom he had preferred to be governour of Bactria, and
Nabarzanes, one in special credit with him, conspired his death.
Which danger, though it was revealed to him by Patron, captaine
of the Greekes, yet he could not, or rather would not eschew.
At length, those two traitours tooke, and bound him with
golden chaines, and cast him in an old chariot, with purpose to
present him to Alexander. But they hearing how he would not
accept their present, and how he was comming to invade them,
threw their darts at Darhts, and left him for dead. In this
estate he was found by Polystratiis, and after the delivery of
some few words, dyed. Alexander having exceedingly lamented
his miserable and undeserved end, directed his body to his
mother, Sisiganibis, to be honourably buried.
THE PERSONS NAMES THAT SPEAKE.
Darius.
SisiGAMBis, his Mother.
Statira, his Wife.
Stat IRA, his Daughter.
TiRiOTES, their Eunuch.
Nabarzanes, ) , rj. .,
' > t7uo 1 raitors.
Bessus, )
Patron, Captaine of the mer-
cenary Greekes.
NUNTIUS.
Alexander.
Parmenio, his Lieutenant.
Hephestion, his Minion.
Polystratus, a .Souldier.
Artabazus, a N'oblenian of
Persia.
Chorus, all Persia ns.
The Scene supposed in Babylon.
THE TRAGEDY OF
DARIVS.
ACT I.
Darius.
What thund'ring pow'r grown jealous of my state,
Which (having daunted th' earth) perchance heaven
fears,*
Thus arm'd with hghtning, breathing flames of hate.
Big with disdaine, high indignation beares?
Long smooth'd of all, whilst I (pale cares despis'd)
In fortunes lap asleep, of greatnesse dream'd,+
Even in that calme, my state a storme surpris'd,
And ere I wak't, my ruine was proclaim'd ;
Thus I, whose onely name did terrour give
(As Idoll of the world), ador'd over all
(With crosses compass'd), such a wretch doe live,^
" With such hostihtie my troupes o'er-throwes." — 1604.
t " In greatnesse shadow, I securelie slept,
Lo, change-affecting fortune wheels about
And ruines all that me from ruin kept."— 1604.
X " Am so degraded now and sunk in woes,
That who admired my might, admired my fall."— 1604.
6 Stirling's Foe/ns.
That who admir'd my might, admire my fall ;
Ah, then indeed I fell, when gallants stood,
And Phcenix-like renew'd their lives by death;
Who having seal'd their force, and faith, with bloud,
Would rather dye, then draw a borrowed breath;
Yet I, not I, did view, not venge (though neare)
Those monstrous mountaines of my subjects slaine,
Though even my enemies * must my courage cleare.
Which flames of fury lightned forth in vaine;
Through greatest dangers, death I did pursue.
Till heapes of slaughtred bodies barr'd my way,
And chang'd my chariot to a scarlet hue,
Ere wounded honour could be drawne away;
O how I envy yet their happy ghosts!
Who dy'd whilst hope of victory remain'd,
And in the presence of two famous hosts,
To praise their valour, even their foes constrain'd :
Shall I survive that memorable shame,
Which Persia's glory with disgrace confin'd?
No, rather let me dye, and let my name,
As vaine, quite vanish, raz'd from every minde.
Starre-boasting Babylon, all As/as queene,
Blush to behold thy king in such a state,
That by the gazing world he now is seene, t
(A scorned suter) humbly to entreate;
But not turn'd vassall, as by pow'r appall'd;
Though all my empire to a period come.
Yet none shall vaunt that ever I was thrall'd;
* " Although my conscience." — 1604.
t " How may thy tovv'rs but tremble, when 'tis told
Thy prince entreats^ whom princes earst entreated." — 1604.
The Tragedy of Darius. 7
" Hearts holding courage, are not quite o're-come.""
Sliould I whose soveraignty so oft was sworne,*
Be seene submisse to scape a minutes paines,
No, let them bow, who but to bow were borne :
For Darius this indignity disdaines.
Since I was once judg'd wortliy to command.
Shall I descend a subjects state to try :
No, whilst a sword yeelds homage to this hand,
I scorne to grant a greater man then I.
Brave sprites, who now possesse the pleasant bow'rs,
And glorious gardens of th' elysian plaines,
(For, if deserts may move th' infernall pow'rs,
That happy shade your shadowes now containes)
Those fatall fields where I did leade you forth.
Your bodies bury, but enlarge your fames,
Men shall adore the relickes of your worth.
And trophees reare to your immortall names;
rie sacrifice as incense to your soules.
His dying sighes, and sorrowing parents teares.
Who now, whilst none his prospering pride t controules.
Our conquer'd ensignes in his triumph beares :
For, it may ease your ghosts to heare his grones.
Whilst burden'd earth rebounding backe doth send
A wailing eccho (rais'd from woods and stones).
With wounded words to shew that armies end.
Why spend I speeches to disturbe your rest,
As but with words (an idle speaker) pleas'd?
A mighty fury hath enflamed my brest,
* " This tongue inur'd still to command doth scorne
To breathe base words to scape a minutes paines." — 1604.
+ " Insolence." — 1604.
8 Stirlim^ s Poems.
i>
And I will rage, till by revenge appeas'd.
Did I that strong Cadusian first afi-ont,
Who durst advance himselfe to brave our bands,
Then turn'd applauded, and in high account,
Charg'd with his spoiles, the honour of my hands'?
What, could I then (all kinde of doubt remov'd)
Alone adventure to an armies shame?
And should I now (that ancient praise disprov'd)
With squadrons compass' d, lose that glorious name'?
Blinde fortune, O! thy stratagems are strange!
Which spoile my pow'r, and staine my honour
too,
And (having made my state the stage of change)
Hast acted all was in thy power to doe;
Loe, I, who late of swarming troups did boast,
Neere left alone, have fortunes fraud disclos'd ;*
And those made captives whom I fancy most,
To vaunting victors are by fates expos'd :
O torment but to thinke, death to beleeve,
That any may my dearest part annoy,
And I, wretch'd I, not able to releeve
Mine eyes chiefe Jewell, and my hearts chiefe joy,
Deare object of my thoughts, my life, my love,
Sweet spring of my delights, my one, my all,
Bright image of th' excellencies above,
Whaf? do'st thou breath, and com'st not when I
cain
And can I be, and not be where thou art %
Hath heaven the force, me from thy face to barre ?
Or are my hands growne traitours to my heart %
* " Am spoiled of all in wliom I then reposed." — 1604.
The Tragedy of Darius.
That they should shrinke from doing what it dare :
O ! could my minde but distribute a space
Those emulating thoughts which tosse my brest,
To pointlesse ciphers, who but spend a place,
Then I alone might animate the rest ;
Since in this great disgrace, I chanc'd to fall,
Now nothing rests to raise my fame forlorne.
But by some desperate course to hazard all ;
rie live with praise, or by my death flye scorne ;
Some prosp'rous issue afterward may purge
This crime which fortune hath impos'd on me,
This crime that carrys with it selfe a scourge :
No greater torment then the want of thee ;
" But fortunes course, what mortall can restraine,*
" Who diadems through dust for sport doth roule T'
A stranger now o're my delights doth raigne,
And may extort the treasures of my soule ;
Now, not till now, I apprehend my harmes.
When I imagine how my best belov'd
Must entertaine mine enemy in her amies.
And I so farre from offering ayde remov'd ;
A host of furies in my brest I finde,
Which doe my soule with dreadfull horrours fill,
Whilst melancholy musters in my minde
Strange apprehensions that affright me still;
And this surmiz'd disgrace, grown throughly strong,
Reades hourely in mine eares a hatefuU scroule
* " But what hope rests to re-obtaine that treasure
Which auaritious tyrants once possesse ?
Another now disposes at his pleasure
Of all my wealth : how can I looke for lesse." — 1604.
I o Stirlifigs Poems.
Of an imagin'd, yet a helpelesse * wrong,
Such poison'd thoughts hke serpents sting my soule ;
BHnde love beguiles me not, sharpe sighted feares
With reason fed, doe make suspition live :
Would God that I had neither eyes nor eares,
Which to the heart intelligence might give ;
This aggravates the weight of my despaire,
When doubt objects to breake loves last defence,
How he is yong and fierce, she yong and faire,
He to oftend, the subject to offence;
From wronging me, both cannot long abstaine :
Her beauty is sufficient to allure,
His bravery is sufficient to obtaine.
" Captaines will force, and captives must endure. "
O Alexander, tender my renowne.
Though thus thou travell to usurpe my throne,
" I rage to have a rivall in my crowne,
" But in my love I can comport with none ;"
That boundlesse flame which in thy bosome boyles,
If quench' d with ought save bloud (as base) I blame :
My fortunes take, but spare her honours spoiles,
Which not thy glory, yet must breed our shame.
But pardon deare that which griev'd thoughts burst
forth,
More bright thy fame, that darkened is my state,
" By many meanes men may approve their worth :
" A woman onely with a wretched mate :
" Chast mindes still pure, doe then most firmly stand,
" When fortifi'd with wedlockes sacred band."
Yet let me doubt, or let me leave to love,
* " Recurelesse. " — 1604.
The Tragedy of Darius. ii
" To feare the worst it is affections part :"
I doubt not of thy truth ; yet it may prove
Thy face betray thy faith, thy hap thy heart ;
But on thy worth my confidence relyes,
This doth dissolve suspitions power againe ;
I will repel reports as sland'rous lyes,
Which would my judgement, or thy vertue staine.
Though fortune now my ruine doth designe.
Yet, with that traitresse scorne to be conjur'd,
She soone may helpe her fault, thou never thine:
" No helpe for honours wounds, all else are cur'd."
Chorus.
" O more then miserable minde,
" Which of all things it selfe worst knowes !
" And through presumption made quite blinde,
" Is puffed up with every winde,
"Which fortune in derision blowes.
" The man no stable blisse can finde,
" Whose heart is guided by his eye,
" And trusts too much betraying showes,
" Which make a cunning lye ;
" Oft short prosperity
" Breeds long adversity :
" For, who abuse the first, the last o'rethrowes.
" What thing so good which not some harme may
bring?*
" Even to be happy is a dangerous thing.
• " A dead security, all care exiles;
Tis no small danger to be happy whiles."— 1604.
12 Stirling's Poems.
" Who on himselfe too much depends,
" And makes an idoll of his wit :
" For every favour fortune sends,
" Selfe-flatterer still himselfe commends,
" And will no sound advice admit,
" But at himselfe begin nes and ends,
" And never takes a moments leisure
" To try what fault he may commit :
" But, drunke with frothes of pleasure,
" Thirsts for praise above measure,
" Imaginary treasure,
" Which slowly comes, and flyes at every fit ;
"And what is most commended* at this time,
" Succeeding ages may account a crime."
A mighty man who is respected.
And by his subjects thought a god,
Thinkes as his name on high erected,
Hath what he list at home effected.
It may like wonders worke abroad,
O how this folly is detected !
For, though he sit in royall seate,
And as he list his vassals lode,
Yet others who are great,
Live not by his conceit,
Nor weigh what he doth threat,
But plague his pride oft ere he feare the rod;
There are rare qualities requir'd in kings,
" A naked name can never worke great things."
• " Affected."— 1604.
The Tragedy of Darius. ' 1 3
They who themselves too much esteeme,
And vainely vihpend their foe,
Oft finde not fortune as they deeme,
And with their treasure would redeeme
Their errour past; behold even so
Our king of blame doth worthy seeme,
His adversary who did scorne
And thought who in his name did goe,
The laurell should have worne,
His triumphs to adorne,
But he with shame hath shorne
The fruits of folly ever ripe with woe :
" An enemy (if it be well advis'd)
(" Though seeming weake,) should never be despis'd.''
But what ] the minions of our kin2:s
Who speake at large, and are beleev4:l,
Dare brag of many mighty things.
As they could flye, though wanting wings.
And deeds by words might be atchiev'd;
But time at length their lies to light,
Their soveraigne to confusion brings :
Yet so they gaine, they are not griev'd,
But charme their princes sight.
And make what 's wrong seeme right,
Thus ruine they his might :
That when he would, he cannot be reliev'd,
" Moe kings in chambers falls by flatteries charms,
" Then in the field by th' adversaries armes."
Loe, though the successe hath approv'd.
1 4 Stirlifig's Foeffis.
What Charidemus had fore-showne,
Yet with his words no man was mov'd,
" For good men first must be remov'd,
" Before their worth can well be known:"
The king would heare but what he lov'd,
And what him pleas'd not, did despise,
So were the better sort o'rethrowne ;
And sycophants un-\nse,
Who could the truth disguise,
Were suffered high to rise,
That him who rais'd them up, they might cast downe :
" Thus princes will not heare, though some deceive
them,
" Things as they are, but as themselves conceive
them."
^ ACT II.
Alexander, Pannenio.
Alex. Behold, the heavens with a benigne aspect,
To prosper this brave enterprise intend,
And with propitious starres seeme to direct
This great beginning to a glorious end.
" Who would be famous, must of force aspire,"
All those (astonish'd) who my troupes doe view,
Doubt of these two, which most they should admire.
My comming, or my conquering with so few ;
" So mighty mindes whilst for great actions bent,
" Force fortune oft to favour them in all,
" Where brests more base divining bad event,
" Through superstitious feares procure their fall."
O how I wonder, when I call to minde
The Tragedy of Darius. 15
That monstrous campe, which not so much as doubted,
Dimme seem'd the sunne, while as their armour shin'd,
Men had not heard the thunder, whilst they shouted.
Avant-couroures advanced to examine.
When they so meane my numbers had perceiv'd,
Did thinke them small to satisfie the famine
That their huge host of slaughter had conceiv'd :
And yet in end this prov'd a poyson'd food,
Which of their owne to their confusion yeelds.
Huge mounts of murthered corpes, and seas of bloud :
Unburied bodies buried all the fields.
So now, that few whom they contemned so farre,
(See how mortality it selfe deceives)
Have quite o're-match'd their multitudes in warre ;
And made the world neere waste to people graves.
Then, deare Fanneiiio, since the fates afford
So faire an entry to our first designes,
Let us goe follow (lantern'd by the .sword),*
That fortune which the heavens our hopes assignes.
Farm. This high attempt, as we would wish succeeds,
What hosts have we o'rethrown, what cities raz'd?
Loe, populous Asia trembles at our deeds,
And martiall Europe doth remaine amaz'd;
Greece, (which both Ma7-s and Pallas did defend) t
A humble supplicant before thee falles.
Rebellious T/icbes, which durst with thee contend,
Lyes now entomb'd within her broken walles;
That sea-commanding Tyre, reposing much
* " With dint of sword."— 1604.
+ " Proud Greece, whose spirits oft preast to skorne the
skyes. " — 1604.
1 6 StirH}is:^s Poems.
A
In liquid towers that Neptwie rear'd in vaine,
Hath now confirmed thy forces to be such,
That nothing can resist thy just disdaine.
No doubt the ancient Grecians ghosts are glad
To see the fierce barbarians brought so low,
Yet are for envy of thy fortune sad,
And though un-bodied blush at this o'rethrow :
Miltiadcs by all men was admir'd.
Who once in Greece their flying troupes pursu'd,
And he who with a stratagem retir'd,
And Salaminds straits with bloud imbru'd;
But yet for all the captain es of that age,
Tlie easterne monarches empire was enlarg'd.
Who in their country (flaming all with rage).
The sea with shippes, the land with armies charg'd ;
He with moe swarmes of men, then Autumnes clusters,
Dranke rivers dry, and march'd on Neptuiies backe.
By measure, not by number, made his musters,
Did scourge the windes, striv'd mountaines plaines to
make ;
All Europe fear'd then to be forc'd to bow.
Whilst th' earthe did groane to beare so great an host;
But thou hast come, scene, and over-com'd them now,
Even in the bounds wherein their povv'r was most.
That haughty foe, who vilipended oft
Our predecessors force, and scorn'd our owne,
Now laid as low, as he was once aloft.
With his disgrace, must make thy valour knowne;
He doth by this acknowledge his distresse,
In labouring thus to have his friends restor'd,
This message (mighty prince) imports no lesse.
The Tragedy of Darius. 17
By his request thy conquest is decor'd;
For the recovery of his captiv'd queene,
He offred hath innumerable gold;
A masse so great, that such was never seene,
More (as they bragge) then Maccdon can hold :
My counsell is, that you accept his offers,
And with his daughters render her againe,
" Who would make warre, must not have empty
coffers,
" Where one for glory, thousands fight for gaine,"
And if those ladies guarded captives stay,
It cost and trouble breeds to fit their state;
Thus more to charge, or charges to defray,
To vexe or ease, advise, and not too late.
Alex. If come to trafficke in a servile sort.
And like a merchant bent but to embrace
(All else despis'd) that which might gaines import,
Then your opinion purchase might a place :
But soone I surfet of such melting things.
And famish but for fame, and crownes of kings.
Parm. If Alexander, I, so would I doe.
Alex. If I Parmenio were, so would I too.
Parm. So you binde souldiers, let them dames
redeeme.*
Alex. Save thankes, or praise, no treasure I esteeme.
Parm. Even good proves ill when done unto a foe.
Alex. What greater glory then to conquer so %
Parm. Gold is the god that conquers in all parts.
Alex. True magnanimity doth ravish hearts.
* " Parm. Their ran.some would defray your souldiers fee.
Alex. I'le rather without ransome set them free." — 1604.
VOL II. C
1 8 Stirlmg's Poems.
Farm. Warrs sinewes treasures are which most
not faile.
Alex. Stout brests, strong hands (not basely given)
prevaile
Parm. The want of wages makes a mutinous band.
Alex. But who dare disobey when I command %
Parm. Those are thought fooles, who riches do
disdain.
Alex. A gallant minde likes glory more then gaine.
Parm. But who delights in such an aiery store?
Alex. If I be singular, I seeke no more.
Parm. The truth by princes is not understood :
But yet I heare your soukliers oft exclaime,
That your ambition but exhausts their bloud,
Who perish all to purchase you a name ;
Yet carelesse what they lose, so you may winne,
That like your minde, your kingdome may want
' bounds,
One battels end, another doth beginne,
Whilst you the glory gaine, they nought but wounds;
Such rash reports oft blowne in every eare,
Doe breed base grudge, and loftie tumults too,
" When leaving reverence, duty, love, and feare,
" What dare not mutinous troupes attempt to doe ? "
Retire in time while as the heavens are cleare;
You have perform'd, perform'd, and that even soone.
More then your own could hope, your foes could
feare,
Yea (yet more strange) then some can trust, though
done;
Your worth in warre (as bright as glory) showne,
The Tragedy of Darius. 19
Which even by envy never could be stain'd,
Your skill in peace would likewise now be knovvne :
Calm vertue guiding, what sterne valour gain'd :
" A state well rul'd, the fame of kings doth raise,
" No less then foughten fields, or batter'd townes.
" More hard it is, and doth deserve more praise
" To guide, then get, to keep, then conquer crownes."
In Fortunes spheares chiefe height your glory plac'd :
Can now not move unlesse it be more low,
And if it once descend, then quite disgrac'd,
Each artizan your statues will o' re-throw;
For in the warre, as you may well perceive.
There doth no little part depend on fame;
If we but once the least small check receive,
The world will gather to procure our shame ;
Then tempt not fortune further then you need,
Your rashly mounting thoughts let reason raine.
Lest whil'st your hopes with trophees fain'd you feed,
A moment lose what many dayes did gaine.
Let Darius prove all monarchs patterne now
(What wand'ring starre doth sway the course of
crownes)
That prince to whom the Orient once did bow.
Him onely now his misery renownes,
Scarce mov'd to call you king, though twise o're-
throwne;
At last to match with you he doth agree,
And with his daughter hath for dowry showne.
That great Euphrates shall your border be ;
Or otherwise he condescends to give
Great store of gold, or what your selfe desires,
20 S/ir/ins^'s Poems.
■a
If that his mother, wife, and children live,
To have them rendred, as he oft requires:
And let not loftie thoughts cloud reasons eyes,
Remember what strange realmes will him embrace,
Which scarce he knows by name, nor never tryes,
Where if he fled, your troups would tyre to chace.
Alex. Peace, peace, Parmenio, now thou mak'st me
rage,
With those thy words not worthy of our eares;
It seemes the coldnesse of declining age
Hath kill'd thy courage with a frost of feares :
Did I abandon thee my native soyle,
And made my ensignes shadow forraine fields,
As fear'd for danger, or else flying toyle,
That I should turne whil'st yet our foe not yeelds?
Then all my labours are but lost at last,
Which have but bred an appetite of praise.
That I might dye displeas'd, the time once past,
When meanes remain'd, a state like loves, to raise:
No, I will raigne, and I will raigne alone,*
Disdaining to admit of more commanders :
For (as the heavens can hold no sunne but one)
The earth cannot containe two Alexanders;
The spatious circuit of this peopled round,+
Seemes not sufficient to confine my thought,
And, oh, would God there could moe worlds be found.
That many might to grace our deeds be brought:
Oh ! I could wish that th' ocean were firm land.
Where none but hideous gyants had retreat,
* " From this design my fancie never wanders." — 1604.
+ "The ample circuit of this spacious round." — 1604.
The Tragedy of Darius,
21
Such as at Phlegra field in strife did stand
Against the gods for the etheriall seat :
These could encourage martiall mindes to strike,
Who when subdu'd, would yeeld eternall praise.
I conquer men, but many did the like,
And after-ages may my equall raise:
But since none such my triumphs are to grace,
Such as there are, He to subjection bring.
And as a pest, I vow to flie all peace,""
Till all the world adore me for their king:
Let them retyre in time who danger dread,
Yet thinke on this (whilst glory bent to wed)
That ye abandon'd me in time of need.
And that I stay'd to fight when as ye fled ;
Passe home in darknesse, servile rest to finde,
I measure not my courage by my numbers.
Farm. Your majestic doth much mistake my mindc.
You know what I endur'd,+ what cares, what cumbers :
And for my part, I to your eyes appeale,
Which well can vvitnesse what my hands have wrought.
All what I spake, proceeded of cleare zeale,
And not of cowardice, or feare of ought;
Nor match I vile repose with honest paines.
My courage (oft-times try'd) is not grown cold,
Nor yet that vigour hath not left my veines.
Which spurr'd my sprite in youth, though I be old.
Akx. 'Tis not enough, that you your selfe be so.
To be the same you should the rest exhort;
Is he return'd, who was ordain'd to go
* " And here I sweare no kind of ease t' embrace." — 1604.
t "Thold."— 1604.
2 2 Stirling'' s Poems.
<b
And view the captives? what doth he report?
Parm. As we have heard of him who thither went,
While they as yet not of support despair'd,
And courteously were led unto a tent
Which we of purpose caus'd to be prepar'd:
Even in the way one fortun'd there to spie
The diademe which Darius ear'st had borne,
(Though glorious once) which low on th' earth did lye,
As earst for pompe, then wondred at with scorne.
Straight they imagin'd from his royall head,
AVhose dignity it sometime did decore,
None could it cast except himselfe were dead,
And if so were, they wish'd to live no more :
When they had entred in the tent to weep.
Your servant came,* and at the entry knock'd,
Who (finding them so quiet) thought a sleep
Had clos'd their eyes, or else that he was mock'd,
At length by force he made a patent way,
And was advanc'd them lovingly to greet,
When (loe) the ladies prostrated all lay,
And with a floud of teares be-dew'd his feet.
Then said (by death expecting to be free)
Let us entombe great Darius like a king;
Then when we first his funerall honour see,
Death must to us a great contentment bring;
This oft they urg'd, though he attested there
That Darius was not dead (as they suppos'd).
But liv'd with hope, his mines to repaire.
And in the pow'r of other realmes repos'd.
Then did he urge what comfort and reliefe
* " Leonatus came." — 1604.
The Tragedy of Darius. 23
They might attend, depending on your grace;
Thus having toil'd to mitigate their griefe,
It seem'd they long'd to see my soveraignes face.
Alex. I pitie still, and not insult o're such,
(Though once mine enemies) who are humbled so;
And lest weake feare oppresse their mindes too much,
To comfort them, straight to their tent Tie go.
[Exeunt.
Chorus,
" Of all the passions which possesse the soule,
" None so disturbes vaine mortals mindes,
" As vaine ambition which so blindes
" The light of them, that nothing can controll,
" Nor curb their thoughts who will aspire ;
" This raging vehement desire
" Of soveraignty no satisfaction findes,
" But in the breasts of men doth ever roule
" The restlesse stone of Sisyph to torment them,
" And as his heart who stole the heavenly fire,
"The vulture gnaws, so doth that monster rent them:
" Had they the world, the world would not content
them."
This race of Ixion to embrace the clouds,
Contemne the state wherein they stand,
And save themselves, would all command;
" As one desire is quench'd, another buds,"
When they have travell'd all their time,
Heapt bloud on bloud, and crime on crime,
There is an higher power that guides their hand:
2 4 Stirling's Poems.
More happie he whom a poore cottage shrouds
Against the tempest of the threatning heaven ;
He stands in feare of none, none envies him ;
His heart is upright, and his wayes are even,
Where others states are still twixt six and seven.
That damned wretch up with ambition blowne.
Then whil'st he turnes the wheele about,
Throwne high, and low, within, without,
In striving for the top is tumbling downe.
" Those who delight in climbing high,
" Oft by a precipice do dye,"
So do the starres skie-climbing worldlings flout ;
But this disease is fatall to a crowne :
Kings, who have most, would most augment their
bounds,
And if they be not all, they cannot be,
Which to their damage commonly redounds,
"The weight of too great states themselves con-
founds."
" The mighty toyling to enlarge their state,
" Themselves exceedingly deceive,
" In hazarding the thing they have
" For a felicity which they conceive;
" Though their dominions they encrease,
" Yet their desires grow never lesse,
" For though they conquer much, yet more they crave,
" Which fatall fortune doth attend the great,
" And all the outward pompe that they assume,
" Doth but with shows disguise the minds distresse:
The Tragedy of Darius. 25
" And who to conquer all the earth presume,
"A little earth shall them at last consume."
And if it fortune that they dye in peace,
(A wonder wondrous rarely seene)
Who conquer first, heavens finde a meane
To raze their empire, and oft-times their race,
Who comming to the crowne with rest,
And having all in peace possest,
Do straight forget what bloudy broyles have beene,
Ere first their fathers could attaine that place;
" As seas do flow and ebb, states rise and fall,
" And princes when their actions prosper best,
" For feare their greatnesse should oppresse the
small,
" As of some hated, envied are of all."
We know what end the mighty Cyrus made,
Whom whil'st he striv'd to conquer still,
A woman (justly griev'd) did kill,
And in a bloudy vessell roll'd his head.
Then said (whil'st many wondring stood)
Since thou didst famish for such food.
Now quench thy thirst of bloud with bloud at will;
Some who succeeded him, since he was dead,
Have raign'd a space with pompe, and yet with paine,
Whose glory now can do to us no good ;
And what so long they labour' d to obtaine.
All in an instant must be lost againe.
Loe, Darius once so magnified by fame,
26 Stirling's Poems.
By one whom he contemn'd o're-come,
For all his bravery now made dombe,
With down-cast eyes must signifie his shame ;
Who puft up with ostentive pride,
Thinke fortune bound to serve their side,
Can never scape, to be the prey of some;
Such spend their prosp'rous dayes, as in a dreame,
And as it were in fortunes bosome sleeping,
Then in a dull security abide,
And of their doubtfull state neglect the keeping,
Whil'st fearfull ruine comes upon them creeping.
Thus the vicissitude of worldly things
Doth oft to us it selfe detect.
When heavenly pow'rs exalt, deject,
Confirme, confound, erect, and ruine kings.
So Alexander mighty now,
To whom the vanquish'd world doth bow.
With all submission, homage, and respect.
Doth flie a borrow' d flight with fortunes wings;
Nor enters he his dangerous course to ponder;
Yet if once fortune bend her cloudy brow,
All those who at his sudden successe wonder,
May gaze as much to see himselfe brought under.
ACT III. SCENE I.
Sisigambis, Statira Regifia, Statira Virgo.
Sis. O dismall day detested be thy light,
And would the gods (but gods neglect our case)
The Tragedy of Darius. 27
The world were wrapt in a Cymmerian night,
That no proud eye might gaze on our disgrace.
Why did the heavens reserve my feeble age
To make my burden more, when strength grows lesse i
Could nothing but my harmes their wrath asswage,
Thus offred up on th' altar of distressed
Ah ! have I spent my youth in pompe and pleasure,
And had my spring-time grac'd with pleasant flowres,
That th' autumne which should reape the sommers
treasure
Might be distempred with such stormy shoAvresI
And did smooth calmes and sunne-shines for a space,
Make all my voyage through the world a sport,
That I should fall when neere to end my race,
(And toss'd with stormes) even perish at my port ?
Yet for all this, were I expos' d alone,
The wretched object of loves thund'ring armes,
I should not thinke I had just cause to mone,
When I but wail'd mine owne, not others harmes;
Ah me! on those whom more then life I love
The state-disturbing blasts of fortune fall,
Yet each of them some severall losse doth move,
But I in anguish beare a part with all :
I suffred when I saw Oxatres slaine,
My loving sonne, and most entirely lov'd;
I dy'd in Darius., when he try'd in vaine
What fates would do, yet still their hatred prov'd;
The heavens to plague me more, yet make me breath,
O rigour rare! what tortures rack my breast?
Who feel the sowre, but not the sweet of death.
Still cours'd, not kill'd, lest that should breed me rest ;
28 Slirlinifs Poems.
>b
Yet, love, if this may dis-enflame thine ire,
Let all thy Hghtning Hglit upon my head,
To be consura'd with a celestiall fire,
Some comfort were, since that I must be dead.
Stat. Reg. Leave, mother, those complaints, as fit
for me,
Who still must grieve my friends, and grace my foes :
Whose fortune is so wretched still to be,*
That all the world may wonder at my woes.
Loe, that deare lord and treasure of my thought,
Whose presence I my paradise esteem'd,
To such a precipice is headlong brought,
That he from ruine cannot be redeem'd;
Ah ! on what prop can I repose my trust,
When of his state I first the greatnesse ponder^
Next, how his diademe (drencht in the dust)
Was fortunes trophee, and all Asia's wonder]
He whose imperious speech the world respected,
And as an oracle had in regard,
He vanquish' d now, and with contempt neglected,
(Even as a supplicant) can scarce be heard;
And yet I know this more doth grieve his soule
Then all the harme which happen'd to his state,
His pow'r ov'r me that any can controull.
Who (as his idoll) was ador'd of late;
Shall he (pure quintessence of my best part)
Then onely testifie the love he beares'?
No, by mine eyes I will distill my heart.
And for his sake dissolve myselfe in teares;
* " Whose days are burdened with so sad events,
That hell itself may of my torments borrow." — 1604.
The Tragedy of Darius. 29
Would God my breast might still transparant be.
That as through crystall all might marke my minde,
And of my loyall thoughts the secrets see,
Whose great affection cannot be confin'd.
This prisons worst hath bounded but mine eyes,
And banish'd them the object of their joy,
My fiery heart well wing'd with fancies flyes,
And where thou go'st dost still thy steps convoy;
Deare, whil'st thou dost enjoy this common ayre,
Those who me captive thinke, do grosly erre :
For whil'st thou liv'st, how can thy queene despaire,*
Whom thou to soule, and scepter, dost preferre;
Yet flatter I my selfe who am accurst ?
Of those mishaps which make my thoughts to stray,
The memory may serve to make me burst.
Ah, ah, I faint, I feele my spirits decay.
Sis. Help, help, alas, alas the empresse falls.
Stat. Vir. O day of darknesse ! what a world of woes \
Sis. This heavy sight my panting heart appals :
Heaven, earth, and all, are now become our foes.
Stat. Vir. No creature hath more cause -to mone
then I.
Whose fathers fortune oft afflicts mine eares,
Whil'st I my mothers misery must spie,
* " My queene is such, as whilst thou drawst this aire,
In counting captives men may still accept her ;
For whilst thou liv'st, how can my spouse despaire,
Whom thou prefer'st even to thy crowne and scepter?
Yet flatter I myselfe that am accurst,
The apprehension which with grief I cherish
Of my mishap, may serve to make me burst.
Ah! ah, I faint, I feele my spirits perish."— 1604.
30 Stirlhig''s Poems.
So that of both, my breast the burden beares.
Stat. Reg. What inhumane humanity is this,
With such a cruell pitie to oppresse,
To bring pale ghosts back from the fields of blisse,
Yet to be plung'd in th' ocean of distressed
0 unkinde kindnesse that by saving slayes.
And would with lovelesse love, my love controull :
Ah! of this braving sunne the loathsome rayes
Do cleare mine eyes, but to confounde my soule.
Sis. Deare daughter, strive your passions to restraine.
Lest that the torrent of your griefe grow such,
That both it carry you where horrours raigne;
And him o're-whelme for whom you mourn so much ;
No doubt but he, if we rest captives thus
Disdaining those indignities of ours.
To venge himselfe in reobtaining us,
Will hazard all his orientall pow'rs;
But ah, what comfort can a wretch afford,
Whose care-worne breast the worst of woe containes?
Yet though my heart would faine impugne my word,
1 hopelesse speake of hope, to ease her paines.
Stat. Reg. Plagu'd with what is, what may be never
pause.
Since we must hold our griefe our greatest good,
And do not feed false hopes, for we have cause
Even to sigh out our souls, and weep our bloud.
Sis. I waile my sonne.
Stat. Reg. And I my husbands fall.
Stat. Vir. I waile my father, and in him us all.
Sis. No woe like mine, mine cannot be releev'd.
I waile his woe who should my woe asswage,
The Tragedy of Dar lies . 31
Who lives by me, by whom I should have Hv'd,
Sport of my youth, and pillar of mine age.
Stat. Reg. No woe like mine, who for my mate
mourne here,
For love of whom, I had all others left ;
But what a mate? my selfe, or one more deare,
Yet from my selfe, my selfe by force am reft.
Stat. Vir. No woe like mine, who born a monarchs
childe,
Hop'd by my birth of fortunes best to boast.
Yet are my hopes even at the height beguil'd,
And what I hop'd in most, hath harm'd me most.
Sis. I mourne for him who in my wombe was
form'd.
Stat. Reg. I mourn for him in whom love me trans-
form'd.
Stat. Vir. I mourn for him who did give forme to
me.
Sis. Shall I no more in him my image see?
Stat. Reg. Ah! shall I never in his joy rejoice?
Stat. Vir. Ah ! shall I never heare his chearfull voyce?
Sis. Would God my ruine might his ransome be.
Stat. Reg. Would God my life my lifes life might set
free.
Stat. Vir. Would God the life he gave him life
might give. «
Sis. Must those gray haires my sonnes greene youth
survive ?
Stat. Reg. Lest twise made dye, I'le first prevent
his fall.
Stat. Vir. Shall I live last to suffer for you all?
32 Stirling's Poems.
Sis. But whil'st our wretched state we justly mone,
We may lament this infant too a space,
Who in mishap inferiour were to none,
If he could apprehend his tragicke case.
Stat. Reg. O then how can my heart but bursted be,
Whom nature moves most to bemone his harmes?
I thinke the hosts of heaven I thund'ring see
On me. my husband, and him in my amies :
Deare image of my selfe, in whom I live,
Thy shape not shames the greatnesse of thy sire,
But of thy birth cleare evidence doth give,
Thy sowre-sweet sight adds coals to my desire.
Thou who should'st comfort most, torment'stthou me?
Huge hosts of passions now my soule assembles ;
O how I grieve, and yet am glad to see
Thee, though not him, whom thy sweet face resembles!
Go beare this babe from hence, a wound too deep
Hath pierc'd me with compassion of his part.
Yet let him stay, I joy to heare him weep;
This mothers passion melts my bursting heart :
Of many woes this last is not the least,
That unbegun thy glory thus must end :
Thy fortunes sunne (my sonne) set in the east,
Whil'st all the world thy rising did attend;
Ah ! must this innocent taste of mishap,
Whose tender age cannot discerne his state.
And thus be plagu'd, yea, in his nurses lap,
Inherit woe by birth 1 ah, cruell fate!
If thou could'st hope, what great hopes hast thou lost,
Who art defrauded of so high a throne 1
Ah! in thy cradle must I see thee crost
The Tragedy of Darius. 33
Whom I design'd so great when we were gone?
Yet happie haj^lesse childe, who can'st not know
From whence the fountaine of our sorrow flows,
Nor what it is that men call high, or low,
Nor on what thorne the rose of honour grows.
Yet hast thou felt the pricke before the smell;
Is this the benefit thy birth-right brings,
A captive here in misery to dwell?
Then better not be borne, nor come of kings.
O! what a noise is this that thus affrights?
I thinke of teares the torrent to restraine,
(Since soules when sad a just complaint delights)
They still would plague, yet stop me to complaine ;
Or is it one who doth lament our case,
And is (a rare thing) in affliction kinde?
Who would behold how we can death embrace !
Death soveraigne physicke for a troubled minde.
Sis. By many signes we may our selves assure
T'is Alexander whom we long'd not for.
Stat. Reg. What? ah I die, and must mine eyes
endure
That hatefull object which I most abhorre?
Sis. Spare, spare such speeches now, lest all go
wrong,
We are environ'd with outragious hosts;
Those who are weake must yeeld unto the strong:
For, victors rage when as the vanquish'd hosts ;
I will entreat him too, not for my selfe
(Age bows my body to embrace pale death)
But that you yet may shunne this wrackfuU shelfe,
Whose youth and beauty worthy are of breath.
VOL. II. D
34 Stirling's Poems.
ACT III. SCENE II.
Alexander, Sisigambis, Sfatira Regina, Hephestion.
Alex. Rise mother, rise, and calme those needlesse
cares,
I come to cure, not to procure your woe;
The duty which I owe those silver haires.
Doth grieve my minde to see you humbled so.
Sis. Most gracious prince, forgive me if I err'd
In taking him for you, who stands you by.
Alex. I finde no fault to see my friend preferr'd,
Even to my selfe; this is another I.
Sis. My sorrows so confounded have my minde
That scarce I know my selfe, another lesse;
My soule in such an agony I iinde,
As words, not teares, nor grones cannot expresse.
Alex. I pray you, mother, set those plaints apart.
They vex me more than sterne Bellona' s broils.
Sis. This tender name of mother wounds my
heart,
Whil'st nam'd by him, who of that name me spoils:
I was (woe that I was) a mother late
Of two faire sonnes (faire sunnes) lights of my life,
But one is dead, and in a worse estate,
The other lives, involv'd in woe, and strife.
Like to the trunke of some disbranched tree
Which y-Eoliis hath to confusion brought,
Since spoil'd of those brave impes which sprung from
me
Unprofitable stock, I serve for nought.
The Tragedy of Darius. 35
Stat. Reg. I serve for nought, since serving him no
more,
Who onely may my blasted hopes revive,
Loe (quite confounded) farre from what before,
Who him of me, me of my selfe deprive. 'j
I Hve without my halfe, without my whole.
Prodigious monster, whom the world admires,
I want the point, the pilot, and the pole
Which drew, addrest, and bounded my desires.
Toss'd by sad sighs in flouds of bitter teares,
I (save from ruine) look for no reliefe,
By what I feele still plagu'd, but worse with feares,
All comfort loath'd, my glory is my griefe :
My soule seems to presage disastrous chances.
And warring with it selfe hath never peace,
My heart surcharg'd doth faint in deadly trances,
My eyes must grace the ground of my disgrace.
Hell hath assembled all her horrours here ;
Ah ! in the dungeons of this desp'rate brest.
As in the dark Tartarian groves, appeare
A thousand shadows to bereave my rest.
Alex. Faire princesse, spare those passionate com-
plaints.
Which may augment, but not amend your harmes;
This voice which with your woe the world acquaints,
Doth move me more then all the Persians armes.
Take courage (madam) be afraid of none;
That you may hope what help I can afford,
I sweare by loves inviolable throne,
And do protest by my imperiall word;
Though for a while barr'd from your royall seat,
36 Stirling's Poems.
You compass'd here with troups of strangers stand ;
Yet shall you still be us'd as fits your state,
And may (as earst in your owne court) command.
Stat. Reg. Ah! how can I command whil'st I am
thrall?
What can I have, who wanting one, want all?
Alex. Though brave it seeme in some proud victors
sight,
To plague their captives, and triumph in ill :
The larger grow the limits of my might,
The more I labour to restraine my will.
What can be fear'd by them whom I defend?
Foes have not pow'r, and who with me remaine,
They dare not wrong, nor offer to offend
The least in ranke who doth attend your traine;
If any would impugne what I appoint,
Or would in ambush for your honour lye,
Or discontent you but in any point.
As Alexander lives, that wretch shall dye.
Stat. Reg. O what an host of evils where ere I go
Are still encroaching to o're-throw my state?
Ah ! must I be beholding to my foe.
And owe him love, to whom my love owes hate?
Should he help me who still his ruine plyes?
Heavens curse my heart, if stain' d with treason thus,
Let death in darknesse first entombe mine eyes,
Ere such a sight accepted be by us.
I (lord) am thine, and thine I will remaine.
Thy love was planted in a fertile field.
Which gratefull now thee to reward againe
From flourish'd faith chast flames for fruits doth yeeld.
The Tragedy of Darius. 37
Yet doth misfortune this good fortune bring,
My constancy shall now be clearly knowne;
Another might have lov'd an happie king :
But I will love thee, though thou be o're-throwne,
Alex. I labour much to comfort in some measure
This grieved queene, that was a monarch's choice,
Whose woe doth make my victory no pleasure.
For whil'st she mournes, I cannot well rejoyce.
Sis. Most mighty king thou dost deserve indeed.
That (as for Darius) we should pray for thee,
Who do'st so much in clemency exceed,
That thou bewail'st our losse, no lesse then he;
Not onely thou surmount' st all other kings,
In glory rising from thy labours gone ;
And for those benefits which fortune brings,
But in all vertues worthy of a throne ;
Thou do'st vouchsafe on me (more then I crave)
The title of a queene, and mother still,
But I confesse my selfe thy humble slave.
Whose life hath now no limits but thy will :
The dreamed good, that greatnesse gave, forgot,
My count'nance shall be free from clouds of cares,
And rie allow of this my present lot.
As one who for my fate my force prepares ;
Yea, if this wofull woman here were free,
Who hath no heaven except her husbands face ;
I could content my selfe (great prince) to be
The meanest hand-mayd that attends your grace.
Alex. As if your sonnes, command all that is mine,*
And I will seek to second your desire.
* "You may command me, as I were your sonne. " — 1604.
^ b »J^ 1 J
38 Stirling's Poems.
Sis. Heavens recompense this courtesie of thine,
Which in all ages thousands shall admire.
Alex. Those captiv'd princesses have pierc'd my
soul,
Which even amid'st our heaven, have found a hell.
Hep. His passions so what stoick could controull,
Whom now to weep, their teares would not compel!?
What age could earst such stately beauties show,
Which of perfection hold the highest place,
And borne to bring, though now they be brought low,
Do beauty beautifie, give griefe a grace?
Sir, such a victory hath not beene seene
As you have gain'd, since conquering (as appeares)
The largest kingdome, and the fairest queene.
That Asia vaunted of, these many yeares.
Durst Ledds, or Agenors brood compare
With that sweet queene, the honour of her kinde?
But as she is above all others faire,
As farre her daughters make her go behinde ;
It seem'd at first that sorrow had beene sleeping.
Then whil'st those virgins in their grand - dames
bosome,
With weeping beauty, and with beauteous weeping,
Did with a haile of pearle, blast beauties blossome :
So large a pow'r, no prince on earth can have,
As hath loves empire in their face confin'd.
Alex. What, what, Hephestio7i, what doth thee de-
ceive %
Dare folly seeke to bragge so brave a minde?
Dare Cupid enter in an armed camp,
And them who Mars have match'd for sport appall?
The Tragedy of Darhis. 39
Must his soft seale even through hard metall stamp,
And make who conquer men, to women thrall?
Hep. We dare resist (whil'st iriany a thousand dyes)
The steely tempests of a world of men,
But if from yvorie orbes two sunnie eyes
Do charge the soule (I know not how) O then
A secret pow'r (compos'd of hopes and feares)
So charms the minde, that it strange thoughts con-
ceives,
And straight the heart (quaff'd drunke by th' eyes and
th' eares),
Doth staggring reele, and full of fancies raves.
Alex. But yet, in my conceit, I scorne all such,
And do disdaine to yeeld my selfe at all ;
Yea, in that sort to bow I loath so much,
Let rather Mars then Cupid make me fall :
Should I be bound with fraile affections chains,
As one oblivious of my former fame?
No, no, this purpose still my soule retaines.
To ballance nothing with a noble name ;
O ! what a great indignity is thisi
To see a conquerour to his lust a slave !
" Who would the title of true worth were his,
" Must vanquish vice, and no base thoughts conceive :
" The bravest trophee ever man obtain' d
" Is that, which ov'r himselfe, himselfe hath gain'd."
Hep. I'm glad (my soveraigne) that as you excell,
Not onely men, but Mars himselfe in armes,
That from your minde, you likewise may repell
The flatt'ring pow'r of loves alluring charmes,
That vertue rare, whose rayes shine in your words,
40 Stirling's Poems.
With generous ardour doth enflame my soule,
And o're my selfe to me such pow'r affords,
That some brave deeds must straight this course con-
troule.
ACT III. SCENE III.
Bessus, Narbazanes.
Bes. Narbazanes, now ere the time be gone,
Let us accomphsh that which we intend,
And joyne our wit, our force, and all in one,
(Ere known begun) that it may quickly end :
You see th' occasion (if our course we keepe)
To raise rare fortunes, points us out the way,
Yea, blames our sluggishnesse that as a sleepe.
So great a purpose doe so long delay.
Loe, angry love our princes part disproves :
For, fortunes worst whatever he attempt
From following him, the peoples minde removes :
" Distresse still is attended by contempt,"
A ground for so great hopes who ere did see,
As heavens so happily breed in our mind.
For, since our king confounded is to be.
We by his fall, a meanes to rise may finde.
Nar. I will most willingly performe my part,
For, I the same exceedingly allow :
Deare wealth and honour, idols of my heart,
If you I may enjoy, I care not how;
Yet that this course may best be kept obscure.
Our care must seeme all for our country bent ;
" When mask'd with zeale, crimes are reputed pure,
The Tragedy of Darius. 41
" A shew of good doth vulgar mindes content,
" In dangerous plots where courage joynes with art,
" Let slow advice, a quicke dispatch be us'd :
" What can (save successe) justifie our part,
" Who must command, or come to be accus'd ]"
Bes. To Alexander one was sent of late,
To speake of peace, whose speech was spent in vaine,
So that (thus toss'd) most desp'rate is his state,
Who peace cannot obtaine, nor warre maintaine;
To cleare his thoughts which many doubts doe sway,
He now craves each mans minde who squadrons leads ;
This for our purpose must prepare the way :
" Those who would compasse kings, need crafty heads:"
And that to gaine which we so much esteeme,
We can upon no meanes more safe conclude,
Then crooked counsels that doe upright seeme
To maske ourselves, and others to delude;
He must (advis'd by some) renounce a space
The shew of pow'r, and from affaires retire,
That for a fashion one may use his place.
Not as usurp'd, but at his owne desire :
So may he try if others can bring backe
That which his fortunes ebbe hath borne away,
Then he againe his diadem shall take.
And (as before) the regall scepter sway.
Nar. Well, then amongst our selves to flye debate,
Which such great actions oft-times under-mines,
I yeeld that you possesse the highest seat.
And will my faction frame for our designes.
Bes. All that is one, which of us two receive it.
Since every thing doth equally belong us,
42 Stirling^ s Poems.
rie take it for the forme, 'tis one who have it,
For we will part his kingdomes all among us.
But if he condescend to this we crave,
To judgements rash, which would at first seeme good,
Let him not thinke us two such fooles to leave, ^
That which so many else have bought with bloud;
" Who once advanc'd, would willingly goe downe,
" And (prop'd with pow'r,) not love in state to standi
" This not the custome is to quite a crowne,
" When one hath knowne how sweet it's to command ;
" This name of faitli but to get credit fain'd,
" Is (weigh'd with kingdomes) lighter then a crowne,
" And even in them whose thoughts are most restrain'd,
" A scepters weight would presse all goodnesse down."
Nar. Yet of my thoughts some doubt new counsell
claimes,*
And with huge horrour aggravates disgrace :
The staine of treason still attends our names,
And with our errour burdens all our race ;
Our purpose must accomplish'd be with paine,
And we (though pompe a space appease our soules)
Shall finde afflictions to disturbe our raigne,
And be when dead, defam'd by famous scroules,
The sacred title of a soveraigne king
Doth worke a terrour more then can be thought,
And majestic to brave my minde doth bring,
Whose count'nance only strange effects hath wrought.
* " Yet to betray our king we have no reason ;
When I muse on th' attempt it makes me sorrie,
Our name stain'd with this odious stile of treason
Shall leave our successors more shame then glorie." — 1604.
The Tragedy of Darius. 43
Bes. To idle sounds and frivolous reports,
Give straight a passport, for they last not long,
And what thou do'st alledge, not much imports :
" A crowne may cover any kinde of wrong;
" What hainous thing so odious is by nature,
" Which for a kingdome not committed is %
" To be a king, let me be call'd a traitour,
" Faith (if for ought) may broken be for this.
" Those are but feeble braines which fancies loade,
" With timorous dreams which bare surmising brings ;
" Who feare vaine shadowes, must not walke abroad,
" Too warie wits dare never worke great things."
If our brave project happily succeed,
(As now I doubt not but it shall doe soone)
We straight will numbers finde to praise our deed.
And sooth us up in all that we have done.
Nar. Now that the time and manner may be sure,
The Bactrian bands shall all attend in amies,
Yet faine a cause that he may live secure,
And be surpris'd not looking for alarmes.
Then through the carape a rumour must be spread.
That hopelesse Darius hath despair'dly gone.
By violence to dwell amongst the dead,
Which (as much griev'd) we must appeare to mone:
The Persians may with promises be pleas'd,
So to disarme him of his native pow'rs,
Then taking him, our thoughts may all be eas'd,
For whir St he is his owne, we are not ours;
Till strong with titles, we with pow'r command.
His shadow shrouds, while rights are forc'd, or fain'd,
And his to daunt, or strangers to gaine-stand,
44 Stirling's Poems.
To raise our state, his shew must be maintain'd.
To Alexander after we will send,
And offer him his foe to bondage brought,
Then crave that us his favour may defend,
As those who all things for his good have wrought ;
Then if we thus his grace cannot procure,
But that he us with rigour doe pursue,
With Darius death we will our states assure,
Then first our force, and next the warres renue,
Bes. Let us hence-forth for nothing be dismaid,
But strive our selves couragiously to beare.
This dangerous action would not be delay'd,
Least time make him to doubt, and us to feare.
[^Exeunt.
Chorus.
Time, through loves judgement just.
Huge alterations brings :
Those are but fooles who trust
In transitory things.
Whose tailes beare mortall stings.
Which in the end will wound ;
And let none thinke it strange,
Though all things earthly change :
In this inferiour round
What is from ruine free?
The elements which be
At variance (as we see)
Each th' other doth confound :
The earth and ayre make warre,
The fire and water are
The Tragedy of Darius. 45
Still ^vrestling at debate,
All those through cold and heat.
Through drought and moisture jarre.
What wonder though men change and fade,
Who of those changing elements are made \
How dare vaine worldlings vaunt
Of fortunes goods not lasting,
Evils which our wits enchant :
Expos'd to losse and wasting!
Loe, we to death are hasting,
Whil'st we those things discusse :
All things from their beginning,
Still to an end are running,
Heaven hath ordain'd it thus ;
We heare how it doth thunder,
We see th' earth burst asunder.
And yet we never ponder
What this imports to us :
Those fearefuU signes doe prove,
That th' angry pow'rs above
Are mov'd to indignation
Against this wretched nation,
Which they no longer love :
What are we but a puffe of breath
Who live assur'd of nothing but of death \
Who was so happy yet
As never had some crossed
Though on a throne he sit,
And is not us'd with losse.
46 Stirlmg's Poems.
Yet fortune once will tosse
Him, when that least he would;
If one had all at once,
Hydaspes precious stones,
And yellow Tagus gold;
The orientall treasure,
And every earthly pleasure,
Even in the greatest measure,
It should not make him bold :
For while he lives secure.
His state is most unsure ;
When it doth least appeare,
Some heavy plague drawes neare.
Destruction to procure.
Worlds glory is but like a flowre,
Which both is bloom'd, and blasted in a houre.
In what we most repose,
We finde our comfort light.
The thing we soonest lose
That's precious in our sight;
For honour, riches, might,
Our lives in pawne we lay;
Yet all like flying shadowes.
Or flowers enamelling meadowes,
Doe .vanish and decay.
Long time we toile to finde
Those idols of the minde,
Which had, we cannot binde
To bide with us one day :
Then why should we presume
The Tragedy of Darius. 47
I
On treasures that consume,
Difificult to obtaine,
Difificult to retaine,
A dream, a breath, a fume %
Which vexe them most, that them possesse,
Who starve with store, and famish with excesse.
ACT IV. SCENE I.
Darius, Tiriotes.
Tir. Ah ! must I poyson now my princes' eares,
With newes the worst that ever burden' d fame :
Had I as many tongues as I have teares,
All would not serve my sorrowes to proclaime.
Dar. Great signes of griefe I in thy face discerne,
And spare not to report this heavie crosse
To one (I feare) whome it doth most concerne:
Is't death, disgrace, destruction, treason, losse'?
Tell on the summe of horrour at the first :
With no ambiguous words my paine prolong :
" A wretch for comfort craves to know the worst,"
And I have learn' d to be unhappy long;
What least I speake, and yet suspect too much,
Art thou the trumpet to proclaime my scorne,*
Which must wound me % (but ah) no torment such
As this to her who that disgrace hath borne.
Tir. She was not wrong'd, as you have' wrong con-
ceiv'd;
The Gods from harme did study to preserve her;
• " I'st some ludibrious message of my skorne." — 1604.
48 S/ir/if/g's Poems.
She from your foe such favour hath receiv'd,
As from her subjects who were bound to serve her ;
But what a volly doth my voyce prepare
Of woes to charge your eares 1 woes full of dread,
Would God ere I my message can declare,
That I may dye in saying she is dead.
And was it not enough (poore wretch alas)
That I beheld her dye, and would have dy'd?
But that I must (arm'd with sad tidings) passe
To wound all them who heare what I have spy'd :
(See how he stands (mov'd with those words of mine,)
As if by griefe arrested unto death.)
Z>ar. Yet doth the sunne on my affliction shine,
And cleare the ayre though tainted by my breath;
And can I live, and looke them in the face,
Who have my o'rethrow (shamefull o' rethrow) scene?
And how I vanquish'd, vanquish'd with disgrace,
Did lose at once my kingdome and my queenel
Heaven bruise me all to powder with thy thunder.
That I no more may in the world remaine
The object of thy wrath, and fortunes wonder,
Spoil' d of all hope, yet kept for greater paine.
Ah, art thou deadi and doe I live behinde thee'^
Thy faulty husband, think'st thou so to flye?
If it be thus, then know I where to finde thee,
This onely grieves me that too late I dye.
O Alexander, what such hainous ill
Have I done thee, that thou requit'st me thus'^
Whom of thy friends or kindred did I kill?
This cruelty comes undeserv'd of us,
Though justly thou intended had this warre,
The Tragedy of Darius. 49
Mars from his rage made women ahvaies free,
This tyranny shall all thy trophees marre,
And still to thy reproch reported be.
Tir. Thus of that prince, you without cause esteeme.*
I know her death him grievously displeas'd,
A wondrous thing which few or none would deeme,
He wail'd it long, and could not be appeas'd.
Even as my soveraigne now, then did he smart,
And when he came to calme your mothers griefe.
As acting not his owne, but even your part,
He seem'd to need, and not to give reliefe.
Dar. If any sparkes of that respect remaine,
Which much with thee should (duely weigh' d) import,
I pray thee, Tlriotes, now be plaine,
Or else strange torments shall the truth extort ;
I loath to let this question scape my mouth.
Which both I blush to crave, and long to know.
And can it be, that this transported youth
Not urg'd to have that which I onely owe?
Could this fierce prince even in his flaming age.
Have such a beauty purchas'd by his toiles,
And yet not seeke (forc'd by affections rage)
Her honours ruine, and my pleasures spoiles?
Speake frankely now, and tell what fatall shelfe
Hath crush'd my treasures barke, and me defac'd:
The feare of ill is worse then ill it selfe,
" They twise doe dye, who dye, and dye disgrac'd."
Tir. Let not those love-bred feares abuse your
thought ;
By all the world no fable I contrive;
• " Sir without cause you guiltie him esteeme." — 1604.
VOL. II. E
50 Stirling's Poems.
If partially I speake, or lye in ought,
Earth open wide, and swallow me alive :
He whom your grace so wi-ongfully suspects,
Hath not in any sort your queene abus'd,
But as his sister still (in all respects)
As chastly and as honourably us'd ;
When angry love subverted had our state,*
And view'd our thundred troupes disordered flight,
Light fortune then who flattered us of late,
Did make our state a mirrour of her might,
For, having found a crowne soil'd on the ground.
Dar. O endlesse shame which never can be cur'd !
Z/'r. We straight imagin'd that some cruell wound
Had kill'd our Lord, and wail'd it as assur'd.
Dar. Would God I then had dy'd, as I desir'd,
To have prevented those ensuing harmes,
Whil'st ere my honour and my hap expir'd,
A crowne my head, a queene enrich'd my armes.
Tir. But Alexander having heard our cryes.
Sent one to learne the cause that mov'd our woe ;
Who .finding whence our errour did arise,
Gave full assurance that it was not so,
Then he himselfe did to our tent resort,
And with the mildest words he could conceive,
Your mother, wife, and children did exhort
Such terrours vaine (since but surmiz'd) to leave;
And he protested that they should expect
* " When fortune first our warlike troupes had scattered,
And with great slaughter put them all to flight,
We whom she late so louingly had scattered
Were made the pattemes of that changlings might." — 1604.
The Tragedy of Darius. 5 1
No harme of him their courage to appall,
Then all things did with great regard direct,
That no man might endammage them at all.
Thus when they were against all dangers arm'd,
(I thinke, for feare (for who would not have fear'd 0
Lest such rare graces might his minde have charm'd)
He never more before her face appear'd;
Else generous vertue, jealous of each thing,
Which (tempting reason) senses might allure,
(What rare restraint in a victorious king)
He fled what fault, or scandall could procure.
He doth his fame above all things preferre.
And will not be where it may blemish finde.
Nor give his eyes commodity to erre,
Lest thoughts impure might strive to staine his minde,
He whir St that she was sicke, did loath delight,
And (gravely griev'd) all pompe and pleasure left.
Dar. O hatefull heaven ! that with such hellish spight
The worlds chiefe treasure, natures glory reft.
Tir. When he beheld deaths triumph in that face,
Which had triumph'd o're such a monarchs heart,
With witness'd woe, even passionate a space,*
The lookers on did much commend his part ;
And when some time his dolour had o'recome,
His funerall rites solemnly to decore,
He us'd such honour, as might well become
The Persian pompe in prosp'rous times before.
Dar. O pow'r supreame ! that of great states disposest,
And ratifi'st thy will with fearfuU thunder,
* " He mon'd no lesse her miserable cace
Then you that lost in her your better part."— 1604.
52 Stirling s Poems.
Who as thou pleasest, placest, and deposest
Vncertaine worldHngs, now above, now under:
I pray thy Deitie in my soules distresse,
If that th' inhabitants of heaven can heare
The plaints of them who this low point possesse,
Or that th' immortals can give mortals eare,
This favour last I onely doe require,
Establish first the scepter in my hand ;
But if through my desert, or thy desire.
The race of Cyrus must no more command,
Since angry heaven so high a hate contracts,
That I must needs my diadem foregoe,
Let him succeed, who proves in all his acts.
So milde a victor, and so just a foe.
ACT IV. SCENE II.
Darius, Artabazus, Nabarzanes, Patron, Bessus.
Dar. If joyn'd by fates with men of dastard mindes,*
Who to a noble death, base life preferr'd,
* It may be as well to give here a somewhat lengthy extract
from the quarto edition of 1604, as it will give the reader a toler-
ably fair idea of the quality of the alterations which were made
by the author between it and the small i6mo edition (printed
along with the rest of the Plays) of 1616, and from which the
folio copy of 1637 (forming the text of the present edition) was,
with a very few trifling alterations, printed : —
Dar. If fortune had ioyned me with dastard mindes,
Who to a noble death base life prefer'd,
I should not harrengue heere vnto the windes,
But be content to have my fate defer'd.
The Tragedy of Darius. 53
I should not waste my words amongst the windes,
But labour would that time might be deferr'd;
O, I repent I proou'd your worth too much,
Who still have follow'd me in all estates.
I rather should, then doubt that you are such,
Prease to proue worthy of so worthie mates.
Yee onlie rest of all that I conducted,
Of whose great force and faith, which many sing,
I by two fights, and flights have beene instructed.
Yet having you I thinke myselfe a king.
He hath placed traitours in my townes most ample.
Not that he honours them (he hates their humour)
But to seduce you by their example
Then baunish all for eueiy little rumour.
Yee haue not to my fortune had regarde
But freelie-follow'd my euill fortun'd warres :
Which, though that I might not, lone would rewarde
And all the world extoll you to the starres.
How long shall I a vagabond remaine,
And flie a stranger who my right would reaue,
Since by one battell we may re-obtaine
All that we lost, or loose all that we haue?
Like those vile traitours whom I will arraigne
To holde me up, shall I goe cast me downe.
Must Darius onelie by entreatie raigne?
No, none hath pow'r to take or giue my crowne.
I shall not my authoritie sur-viue
Nor will I proffer a submissiue breath :
My hand shall holde a scepter while I Hue :
My head shall beare a diadem till death.
If those franke thoughts that doe possesse my soule
Such flames of vertue kindled haue in you,
A Macedonian neuer shall controule
Our noble actes nor laugh to see vs bow.
My state may testifie fraile fortunes change :
May she not him o're-whelme, as well as me?
54 Si ir ling's Poems.
Though still resolv'd, your course confirmes me much,
Whom no disaster could divorce from me,
What man can doubt whom heavens doe backe by-
such,
When (bragg'd with bondage) fighting to be free?
My courage swels to see you marching forth,
Whose force and faith, which all the world doth sing,
(Oft clear" d by proofe, though fortune envy worth)
Might serve to make, farre more to keepe a king.
He gives our rebels townes, not mov'd by love :
" Each prince (though using them,) all traitours hates."
But that their course to take, this might you move,
His turne once serv'd, so forfeiting your states.
Ye to my fortune have not had regard,
As of my peace, so partners of my warres.
Which, though that I might not, love would reward,
And all the world extoll you to the starres.
How long shall I a vagabond remaine,
And flye a stranger who my right would reave,
Since by one battell we may re-obtaine
All that we lost, or lose all that we have'?
Like some vile traitors, whom I will arraigne.
At least our hands beare death, if not revenge :
For who can stop a stout hart for to die.
Thinke of your auncestors, I you exhort,
Who made the Grecians tributaries euer ;
And of whose wondrous actes men do report
Great things, the fame whereof shall perish neuer.
Shall future ages in your praise be dombe
Whil'st they your fathers memorie adore:
I am resolv'd, my triumphe or my tombe,
A lawrell, or a cipresse shall decore.
The Tragedy of Darius. 55
To hold me up, shall I goe cast me downe'?
Must Darius onely by entreaty raigne 1
No, none hath pow'r to give, or take my crowne,
I shall not my authority survive,
Nor will I proffer a submissive breath,
My hand shall hold a scepter while I live,
My head shall beare a diadem till death;
If those franke thoughts which doe possesse my soule,
Such flames of courage kindled have in you,
A Macedonian shall not us controule.
Nor with disdainefull smiles brag whil'st we bow :
My state may testifie fraile fortunes change.
May she not him o're-whelme, as well as mee?
At least our hands beare death, if not revenge,
" Brave mindes when no more rests may still dye free."
Now call your valorous ancestors to minde.
Who from the Grecians tribute still requir'd,
And of whose deeds rare monuments we finde,
Whose merits make their memories admir'd ;
Shall of your deeds, posterity be dumbe,
Which doth your fathers names (though dead) adore I
I am resolv'd, my triumph, or my tombe,
A laurell, or a cypresse shall decore.
Art. What doubtfull silence thus your thoughts
detaines]
We need advise with nought but with our swords ;
He who the Persians wonted worth retaines.
Will answer now with deeds, and not with words.
Let us accompany our king in armes.
Through bloudy squadrons to this fatall strife :
" No profit can be had without some harmes,"
56 Stirling's Poems.
By slaughter onely we must looke for life ;
And when our host (as I hope) doth prevaile,
Our country shall have peace, we praise of right;
And if our fortune (not our courage) faile,
We dye with honour in our soveraignes sight;
Let us (if vanquished) scorne base breath to buy,
A noble death may greater glory give,
Doe to o're-come, and yet not feare to dye :
'Tis needfull that we fight, not that we live.
Nar. My words will first your majestic displease.
Yet duty makes me speake where silence spilles;
" The best physitian cures a sharpe disease,
"With some sowre potion that corruption killes;
" And skilful! pilots when they feare a storme,
" To save the ship, will cast out pretious things,"
You in some sort may imitate their forme,
For else a tempest totall ruine brings.
Since bent against the gods, how can we speed 1
To all our actions, fortune is oppos'd.
We must of force some other way proceed,
So have the heavens of our affaires dispos'd :
Give (sir,) the state, at least your titles place
On some more happy man, not in effect.
But with your shadow cloath him for a space,
Till he your realraes from ruine may protect.
This storme once calm'd, that now disturbs your state,
And Asia free from any forraigne hoste.
He shall with haste resigne the soveraigne seat.
These kingdoms gain'd againe, which you have lost:
All Bactria yet abides at your command.
The Indians, loe, would dye to doe you good,
The Tragedy of Darius. 57
Yea, many thousand thousands armed stand,
Bent for your state to offer up their bloud;
What? should we rush hke beasts to needlesse strife?
Be well prepar'd, and then your fortune try,
" Brave mindes should death despise, not loathing life :
" For feare of danger cowards crave to die.
" But vertue first all hopes accounts doth cast,
" And of each meane to helpe maturely thinkes,
" Then, when all else is done, death is the last,
" The which to meet true courage never shrinkes."
Now for the time, let Bactria be our seate.
To Bessjis for the forme your crowne resigne.
Who, when he once hath re-advanc'd your state,
Shall with your foes o 'rethrow his charge confine.
Dar. Wretch, travell'st thou thy soveraign to betray ?
Such treason dar'st thou to our eares impart?
Such treason under trust? stay traitour stay,
My sword shall search what lurkes within thy heart.
Art. Sir, reyne your rage : this but new trouble
breeds.
And weigh well what they are, what is the time;
It may be this from ignorance proceeds,
" In thought, and not in word, consists a crime;"
Since that against your enemies you goe,
Be not severe in cens'ring subjects parts.
But tolerate your owne, to grieve your foe,
Now must we strive to gaine, not lose mens hearts.
It by all meanes shall be exactly try'd,
How first his braine such fancies did embrace.
And if but simply, not puft up with pride.
He must be pardon' d, and restor'd to grace.
58 Stirling's Poems.
Dar. And of my subjects I would rather have
Then one to punish, them to guerdon all.
Nar. If I have err'd, no pardon (sir) I crave.
First heare, and if I faile, then let me fall ;
I call the Gods to testifie my part,
Who can (commenting thoughts) cleare truth afford.
If ever treason harbour'd in my heart.
Straight let me dye, not pittied, but abhorr'd;
I counsell gave according to my skill,
It was my upright mind that made me bold,
And though my wit not answer'd to my will,
" Still zeale what it conceives, must needs unfold.
" We should be loth to speake in great affaires,
" Where words are damn'd, or ballanc'd by th'
event :
" For, if things faile, the fault is still thought theirs,
" Who gave advice, though of a good intent,"
Great Prince forget this not well grounded grudge :
Who dare be free if thus for words rejected?
At least examine first before you judge,
I rather dye absolv'd, then live suspected.
Da>'. Your fond opinion justly might be fear'd,
Which seem'd indeed sinistrously inclind ;
For, at the first your speech to me appear'd
The poyson'd birth of some malitious minde.
But your purgation now hath taken place.
And of your faith I will no further doubt,
But hold you in the same degree of grace,
That you enjoy'd, before those words chanc'd out.
I thinke that Patron lookes with speaking eyes,
As if his minde were mightily perplex' d,
The Tragedy of Darius. 59
Come, Patron, tell what in thy bosome lyes,
By which thou seem'st so wonderfully vex'd.
Pa. Sir, I would speake in private if I could.
That which affection fir'd with zeale affords,
" Let silence scale what friends with feare unfold,"
Take you my thoughts, none else shall have my
words :
Though onely bound by voluntary choice,
We follow you (all other hopes quite lost)
Your bodies shadowes, th' ecchoes of your voyce,
As faithfuU now as when you flourish'd most;
For where you are, we must remaine with you,
Since both our lots are in one vessell throwne,
I wish our tent were made your lodging now.
For, we will save your life, or lose our owne.
We have abandon' d Greece our native soile,
And our retreat no Bactria now attends,
But those who us would of your person spoile,
Spoile us of all, whose all on you depends.
Would God all yours were bent to doe their due,
"Fame big by feare doth bring forth rumours rife;"
I grant it grosse, if that his owne were true,
To trust a stranger with a monarches life.
Dar. What sudden danger doth of late dismay you,
Such inconveniences that you fore-cast "?
Pa. Sir, BessHs and Narbazanes betray you,
This day to you or them will be the last:
They faine repentance onely for the forme,
Till every thing be for the fact prepar'd.
The clouds are gathering which do boast a storme.
And they ere night, minde to invade your guard.
6o Stirling's Poems.
Dar. I trust thy words, but yet I cannot wrong
Those who by nature love to me should beare,
Shall I leave them who follow' d me so long?
Then they may thinke, I merit what I feare.
I will await on what the heavens will send,
For, who can stand when fates his fall conspire,
And with mine owne, at least, least griev'd will end,
I live too long if they my death desire.
Bes. Take heed in time (sir) to this subtile Greeke,
The Grecian faith to all the world is knowne,
I am enform'd he by all meanes doth seeke
To gratifie your foe, as borne his owne;*
" And marvell not, though mercenary men,
" Who sell themselves, sell all, this is not strange,
" They have no God but gold, nor house, how then
" Can they be constant, who doe live by change?"
Though this vaine man pre-occupy you thus.
And such as would themselves abuse your grace,
Faith shall be found untainted still in us,
When our accuser dare not show his face.
Da): Of Alexander those who hope for gaine,
By trait'rous meanes do but themselves deceive,
Since none in earth doth traitors more disdaine,
Nor treason can in greater horrour have.
Bes. Well, sir, you shall know shortly what we are,
I will go see your ensignes all displai'd.
Dar. It better is since things are gone so farre,
Then seeme but to mistrust, to be betray'd.
Loe, Artahazus, I have acted here
My part of greatnesse, and my glasse is runne,
* " Do win his grace who hath your state o'rethrown." — 1604.
The Tragedy of Darius. 6i
Now Patrons speech doth evident appeare,
I see my end, yet can their course not shunne.
Art. The Badrians onely have imbark'd in this,
Go to the Greeks, which if with courage done,
When once your danger manifested is,
The Persians all will follow after soon^.
Dar. And what if I were gone to Patrons tent.
And had the Greeks for guard as you desire %
He hath but thousands foure which are well bent,
They thirty thousand who my fall conspire;
And (doing this) I should their deed excuse,
In giving them a cause who have most might;
They may indeed my lenity abuse,
But by my deed they shall pretend no right.
Art. O prince to be bemoan'd, who can but weep
To see thee thus involv'd in such a state'?
Dar. Retyre you all, and seek your selves to keep,
I here attend the issue of my fate.
Ye wonder that a wretch yet breathing stands,
To whom the heavens no comfort can impart:
Feare shall not make me fall by mine owne hands,
No, let another sinne though I must smart;
None of you all have falsifi'd your truth,
But loyall still unto the end abide.
Now I you all disburthen of your oath.
Leave me alone, and for your selves provide.
ACT IV. SCENE III.
Daritis.
Dar. O stormy state of kings, vaine mortalls choice.
62 Stirlin^^s Poems.
<b
The glorious height whence greatnesse grones to fall !
Ah! we (who courting fame, do hunt each voyce)*
To seenie but soveraigne must be slaves to all :
" Yet blowne like bladders, with ambitions winde,
" On envy'd scepters weakly we relye ;
" And (whil'st swoln fancies do betray the minde)
" Not onely th' earth, but heavens themselves defie.
"Whil'st loftie thoughts tumultuous mindes do tosse,
" Which are puft up with popular applause,
" A state extended by our neighbours losse,
" For further trouble but procures a cause ;
"If fortunes dark ecclipse clouds glorious light,
"Then what avails that pomp which pride doth claim \
" A meere illusion made to mock the sight,
" Whose best was but the shadow of a dreame ;
" Of glassie scepters, let fraile greatnesse vaunt,
" Not scepters, no, but reeds, which (rais'd up) break,
" And let eye-flatt'ring shows our wits enchaunt,
" All perish'd are, ere of their pomp men speak ;
" Those golden palaces, those gorgeous halls,
" With furniture superfluously faire,
" Those stately courts, those skie-encountring walls,
" Do vanish all like vapours in the ayre.
" O ! what affliction jealous greatnesse beares,
" Which still must travell to hold others do\vne,
" Whil'st all our guards not guard us from our feares,
"Such toile attends the glory of a crowne'?"
Where are they all who at my feet did bow,
Whil'st I was made the idoll of so many?
What joy had I not then? what have I now?
• " Our pow'r depends upon the peoples voice." — 1604.
The Tragedy of Darius. 63
Of all once honour'd, and now scarce of any.
" Our painted pleasures but apparrell paine :
" We spend our nights in feare, our dayes in dangers,
" Balls toss'd by starres, thrals bound to fortunes raigne,
"Though known to all, yet to ourselves but strangers,
"A golden crowne doth cover leaden cares;
" The scepter cannot lull their thoughts asleep,
" Whose souls are drown'd with flouds of cold despaires,
" Of which base vulgars cannot sound the deep.
" The bramble grows, although it be obscure,
" Whil'st loftie cedars feele the blust'ring windes,
" And niilde Plebeian souls may live secure,
"While mighty tempests tosse imperiall mindes;
" What are our dayes but dreames, our raigne a glance,
" Whil'st fortunes feaver makes us rage and rave,
" Which with strange fits doth to a height advance,
"Till, ere paine us, we first our life must leave?
" For glist'ring greatnesse by ambition lov'd,
" I was the wonder of all gazing eyes,
" But free from shadows (reall essence prov'd)
"States just proportion ruine onely tryes."
Loe, charg'd with chains which (though they be of gold)
My states distresse diminish not the more,
When this prepost'rous honour I behold.
It but upbraids me what I was before,
And what was I before (as now I see)
(Though what afflicted was not clearly knowne)
But still in fetters, whilst appearing free,
And in a labyrinth of labours throwne.
Was I not forc'd to serve a thousand humours,
To scape the censure of a criticke storie,
6 4 Stirling's Poems.
Still clog'd with cares, enrag'd with many rumours;
O glorious bondage, and 6 burd'nous glory!
That dignity which deifi'd me late,
And made the world doe homage to my name,
Doth not oppose that which pursues my state,
But by my fall gives feathers unto fame;
My best was but a momentary blisse.
Which leaves behind this ever-lasting sting,
That of all woes no woe is like to this.
To thinke I was, and am not now a king.
No man with me in all th' accomplish'd joyes
That satisfie the soule, could once compare;
No man may match me now in sad annoyes.
Or any crosse which can provoke despaire.
Thrice fortune did my gallant troups entrap,
And I to fall did desperately stand,
Yet could not be so happy in mishap.
As to have di'd by some renowned hand;
But for my greater griefe, disgrace, and scorne
(The mindes of men so apt are to deceave)
They whom aloft my favours wings had borne.
Even they have made their master thus a slave.
Ah! did not death in prison from me reave.
The sacred soveraigne of my soules desires?
And I (wretch' d I) not present to receave,
The last cold kisse that should have quench'd my
fires?
Yet, O thrice happie thou, who hast not liv'd
To beare a burden of this great disgrace !
More then a thousand deaths this had thee griev'd,
To know I di'd, and di'd in such a case.
The Tragedy of Darius. 65
Ah ! doe the pledges of our mutuall love,
(The onely comfort that the fates have left)
Rest iDrison'd yet? and may I not remove
My mother thence, as of all power quite reft %
My paines are more then with my pleasures even.
Since first my head was burden'd with a crowne;
Was I exhalted once up to the heaven,
That to the center love might throw me downe <
My ample empire, and my princely birth,
My great magnificence, and vaine excesse,
All cannot yeeld my minde one minutes mirth,
To ease me now in this my great distresse.
Loe here reduc'd vnto the worst of ills,
Past helpe, past hope, and onely great in griefe.
Two abject vassals make me waite their willes,
Not looking, no, nor wishing for reliefe.
If that my honour had beene first repair'd,
Then what though death had this fraile fortresse
wonne'?
I waile my life (since for disgrace prepared)
Not that it ends, but that it was begunne :
What fatall conflict can my count'nance marre,
Though me to bragge, death all his horrours bring*?
I never shall wrong majestic so farre,
As ought to doe that not becomes a king.
Chorus.
Some new disaster daylie doth fore-show
Our comming ruine : wee have scene our best :
For, fortune bent us wholy to o'rethrow,
VOL. II. F
66 Stirling's Poems.
'<b
Throwes dovvne our king from herwheeles height so low,
That by no meanes his state can be redrest :
For, since by armies his pow'r hath beene represt,
Both friends and servants leave him all alone;
Few have compassion of his state distrest,
To him themselves a number false doth show ;
So foes and faithlesse friends conspir'd in one,
Fraile fortune and the fates with them agree :
"All runne with hatchets on a falling tree."
This prince in prosp'rous state hath flourish'd long,
And never dream'd of ill, did thinke farre lesse,
But was well follow'd whilst his state was strong;
Him flattering Syrens with a charming song
Striv'd to exalt, then whilst he did possesse
This earthly drosse, that with a vaine excesse
He might reward their mercenarie love;
But now when fortune drives him to distresse,
His favourites whom he remain' d among,
They straight with her (as hers) their faith remove;*
And who for gaine to follow him were wont,
They after gaine by his destruction hunt.
" O more then happie ten times were that king,
"Who were vnhappie but a little space,
" So that it did not utter ruine bring,
" But made him prove (a profitable thing)
"Who of his traine did best deserve his grace;
" Then could, and would of those the best embrace ;
"Such vulturs fled as follow but for prey,
*■ "With foes and fortune straight their faith remoue." — 1604.
The Tragedy of Darius. 67
"That faithful! servants might possesse their place.
"All gallant minds it must with anguish sting,
" Whilst wanting meanes their vertue to display ;
"This is the griefe which bursts a generous heart;
"When favour comes by chance, not by desart."
Those minions oft to whom kings doe extend.
Above their worth, immoderate good-will,
(The buttes of common hate oft bit in end)
In prosp'rous times they onely doe depend,
Not upon them, but on their fortune still.
Which if it change, they change, them though they fill
Their hopes with honour, and their chests with coyne;
Yet if they fall, or their affaires goe ill,
Those whom they rais'd will not with them descend,
But with the side most stronge all straight doe joyne,
And doe forget all what was given before.
When once of them they can expect no more.
The truth hereof in end this strange event,
In Bessiis and Narbazanes hath prov'd,
On whom their prince so prodigally spent
Affection, honour, titles, treasure, rent,
And all that might an honest minde have mov'd.
So bountyfull a prince still to have lov'd,
Who so benignely tendred had their state;
Yet traitours vile (all due respects remov'd)
They him to strike the strength he gave have bent,
Soe as he now may rue, although too late,
That slie camelions changing thus their hue,
To servants were preferr'd, who still were true.
68 Stirlin^^s Poems
<b
But though those traitours for a space doe speed.
No doubt the heavens once vengeance will exact ;
The very horrour of this hainous deed,
Doth make the hearts of honest men to bleed :
Yea, even the wicked hate this barbarous act:
The heavens no higher choler can contract,
Then for the forcing of a sacred king,
Whose state (if rage doe not their mindes distract)
Must feare and reverence in inferiours breed,
To whom from him all what is theirs doth spring;
But though on th' earth men should neglect this
wrong.
Heavens will those traitours plague ere it be long.
ACT V. SCENE I.
Hephesiioii, Alexander, Polystratiis.
Hep. What story or what fable can record
Of such a numb'rous troupe so strangely lost i
I know they quak'd to know it was my lord.
Whose name alone is worth anothers hoste:
It scarse can trusted be in many parts;
" But traitours feare, though all the world them backe,"
They were but bodies destitute of hearts :
Moe prisoners they were then men to take.
Who would believe so few durst strive to meete
So great an army, and the army shrinkes?
" But glories flattery, and fames sounds are SAveet :
" True valour dare attempt all that it thinkes."
Alex. In this encounter to have had the best,
The Tragedy of Darius. 69
It would content more then a common minde;*
But since we want the chiefe, what of the rest?
I must in all a satisfaction finde ;
Those traitours thought to finish thus the warre,
By giving me their lord whom they have bound,
But I who march with confidence so farre
Doe scorne to build upon so base a ground ;
To venge my wrongs dare others then designed
Since Darius was ordain' d my prey to be,
How durst they but have aim'd at ought of mine?
His o'rethrowes glory did belong to mee.
Whilst in himselfe he onely did confide,
I by all nieanes did strive to make him bow,
But since his hard estate abates that pride,
My fury turn'd is to compassion now-
Though he contemn'd me oft, and did me wrong,
Yet am I griev'd that he was thus deceav'd,
If but acknowledg'd once to be more strong,
I not his blood, nor yet his kingdome crav'd ;
And if those traitours have not kill'd him straight,
Yet his delivery shall my name renowne,
I would not lose a subject of such weight,
By which my clemency might be made knowne.
Po. Sir, now your comming cannot doe him good.
Alex. AVhat? all are fled, none have my force with-
stood?
Po. Yet can not Darius be redeem'd againe.
Alex. Why, have they set him free, or is he slaine?
Po. Now he enjoyes a libertie at last;
But ransom'd is by offering up his breath.
Thought."— 1604.
* (f
7o Stirling'' s Poems.
Alex. Then is all Asia''s expectation past?
Tell on at length the manner of his death.
Fo. The boiling ardor of the rising sunne
(All moisture gone) did breede so great a drouth,
That from the way I had a little runne,
To finde some fountaine to refresh my mouth ;
There, by the borders of a rysing brooke,
Which shadow'd was from Titans rysing beames,
From liquid crystalls I a tribute tooke,
Which seem'd to murmure, that I forc'd their streames :
When (loe) I saw (a lamentable sight)
Two wounded horses draw a bloody coach,
Which clad with skinnes, shew horrour at the height ;
And it to spie when as I did approach,
One was within, who could not long time scape,
The fatall* passage of th' infernall gates;
Yet majestic triumphing o're mishap,
Hee seem'd to bragget both fortune and the fates.
And to so base a state as first not borne,
Then whilst his bloode aboundantly did fall.
He bursted forth those words in fortunes scorne,
As one whose courage nothing could appall :
You gaze to see (and have good cause wherefore)
A man no man, a king no king : what change?
Now lesse then nought who once was both, and more ;
This would seeme wond'rous, but no state is strange;
And yet a midst my evils I must rejoyce,
That this last comfort doth forgoe my end.
I speake to one who can conceave my voice,
And not in vaine my dying speeches spend;
* "Doubtfull."— 1604. + "Threaten."— 1604.
The Tragedy of Darius. 7 1
I am, but how? in name, and not in pow'r.
That wretched Darius (which I should suppresse)
Once happie (as was thought) but at this hower,
A lively patterne of extreame distresse.
Then having paus'd (he said) my griefe is great,
Tell Alexander (as the world may spie)
That though of me he never had but hate,
Yet am I forc'd farre in his debt to die :
The favour past extended to my queene :
And that poore remnant my surviving rest,
(When weighing well what I to him have beene)
I wish continu'd, but can scarce request ;
They to his foe belong, and yet he strives
To have them honour'd now, as in times past ;
But those who held of me both states, and lives.
Of state and life have me depriv'd at last.
Entreat him too that unreveng'd below
I wander not as haplesse in all things ;
Let men his justice, and their treason know;
This (as a common cause) doth touch all kings.
Beside the honour which he shall acquire
In plaguing them who have betrai'd my trust.
His magnanimity men shall admire.
And feare to grieve him whom they finde so just.
" As watrie rounds which rise and reele in raine,
" Do swell, and flote, yet when they break (though
bright)
" Last, leave (when fall'n) no token save a stayne,"
Pompe quickly thus both courts and scornes the sight;
And since my glasse is runne, my glory gone,
I dead unto the world, the world to me,
7 2 Stirling's Poons.
I wish (save his) that th' earth adore no throne :
For, from his raigne what subject would be free %
Then droAvping downe, faint, bloodlesse, and halfe dead,
He prai'd me for some water that ranne by,
(A small request by such a monarch made)
Which when that he had got : yet, ere I die
This crosse must come (said he) to kill me quite;
Though nations once to mee as soveraigne sought,
I have not now the pow'r but to requite
This little benefit, that thou hast brought :
But Alexander shall reward thee well,
And him the heavens, still yeelding his desires.
Since that his foes (though envie burst) must tell
That courtesie which all the world admires.
Now none hath pow'r his pleasure to controule.
But if he use them well whom he retaines.
It will procure contentment to my soule.
And make him famous whilst the world remaines.
When breath abandon'd hath this brittle clay,
Then cause some friend defray my funerall cost,
That churlish Charon force me not to stray
Where darkenesse dwells, an unregarded ghost.
Last, give my corpes to her who brought it forth,
Who may it with my ancestours entombe,
And since she lov'd me much, though little worth,
May waile this burden which once grac'd herwombe;
And to that prince whose state I wish to stand,
In signe of love which all my thoughts doe send,
My soule gives him my heart, it thee my hand:
Thus though I liv'd his foe, I die his friend.
I had but held his hand a little space,
TJic Tragedy of Darius. 73
When dying like a torch whose wax is spent,
In spite of payne, even with a princely grace,
His hands still seem'd directing as he went.
Alex. Who could refraine from teares to heare
declar'd
The huge mishapps, which all at once did light ;
Have subiects slaine their prince, whom strangers'
spar'd?
Vs hath he iled, that perish thus he might !
I for his fall am wonderfully sorry,
Whom first I forc'd, but last would have maintained :
I envie death, because it rob'd the glory
Which I (by giving him his life) had gain'd.
Hep. Since death hath put a period to his woes,
That favour which to him you would extend,
Let it with furie flame against his foes.
For your designes can have no fairer end :
So shall you both the peoples love obtaine.
Whilst by your meanes reveng'd their soveraigne rests,
And likewise may the more securely raigne,
The state well purg'd from such contagious pests,
" If but one vertue did adorne a king,
" It would be justice; many great defects
" Are vail'd thereby, whereas each vertuous thing
" In one who is not just, the world suspects."
Alex. Though this your counsell, nor yet his request.
Had not the pow'r to penetrate my eare,
A generous stomach could not well digest,
So great a wrong which courage stormes to beare.
My sprite (impatient of repose) disdaines.
That they so long their infamie survive :
74 Stirlijig^s Poems.
But I will punish with most grievous paines
The monstrous treason that they did contrive.
What? doe they thinke (though back'd with numbrous
bands)
That Badria is a bulwarke for mine ire ?
Flie where they list, they cannot scape my hands,
My wrath shall follow Uke consuming fire.
Such damned soules the heaven cannot receave,
He force hells dungeons, as Alcidcs did,
And they on th' earth no bounds but mine can have,
I'le search them out though in the center hid.
And when as threatning now I once may strike,
Betwixt the bending boughs of some strong tree,
To traitours terrours who intend the like,
They shall by violence dismembred be.
Poll. Sir, may it please you to extend your care,
That some his funerall offices perform e.
Alex. Goe presently, and every thing prepare.
As best becomes the military forme.
ACT V. SCENE II.
Sisigambis, Nuntzus, Chorus.
Sis. This looke alas, hath charg'd my soule with
feares :
Speak, for my life doth on thy lippes depend.
Thy count'nance (ah) a dolefuU copie beares
Of some sad summons to denounce my end.
Starve not my eares, which famish for thy words,
Though they when swallow'd may but make me burst.
The Tragedy of Darius. 75
Nun. The message (madame) which my soule
affords
Must once be knowne, and once knowne still accurst.
Sis. Be not a niggard of ill newes.
Nun. And why?
Sis. Fame will tell all the world.
Nun. But first to you.
Sis. Tell soone.
Nun. Your sonne is dead.
Sis. Then let me die.
Cho. Her joyes and pleasures all are perish'd now.
Sis. Why opens not the earth straight to devoure
A hopelesse caitive who all good hath lost %
The longer that I live, my griefe growes more,
As but to mischiefe borne, kept to be crost ;
Would God this masse where miserie remaines,
A weight of earth from sight of men might keepe ;
Or that the seas all raging through the plaines
Would make my tombe amid'st their tumid deepe.
O Alexander! hast thou rob'd his life,
Yet entertain'd me still in hope to finde him :
Why did'st thou not first kill this poore old wife,
Who was not worthy to have liv'd behind him %
That I should live till thou my sonne had'st slaine.
Was all thy kindnesse for this cause imploi'd?
Nun. You wrong that prince, for he with hast in
vaine
Came him to help whom others had destroi'd.
Sis. What impious thoughts durst dreame so vile
a deed,
A monarchs murther, Asia's glories end ?
'J 6 Stirling^ s Poems.
Nun. Two whom he rais'd did his confusion breed,
He found his friend his foe, his foe a friend.
Sis. Tell on thy message, messenger of death,
And loade my minde with mountaines of distresse,
That tears may drowne my sight, sighs choake my
breath,
Whilst sorrow all my sences doth possesse.
Nun. When Alexander- (who at peace repin'd)
Did (save submission) hold all offers vaine,
Bent of Sterne Mafs to try the doubtfull minde ;
A generall muster Darius did ordaine,
And (in one battell bent to venture all)
He caus'd his will be publikely proclaim'd,
AVhilst two vile traitours did conspire his fall.
Who Bcssus and Narbazanes were nam'd;
Those two in councell did discover first
Some portion of the poison of their heart,
Which caus'd the king suspect, but not the worst,
Yet with a sword he sought to make them smart.
But having scap'd what first was fear'd from rage,*
They seem'd so much their errour to lament,
His indignation that they did asswage,
(False hypocrites) pretending to repent.
Whilst Artabazus as an honest man
Who judg'd of others by his vpright minde,
(No fraud conceav'd) sought more to scape then
scan,
What they with craft to compasse crownes design'd.
Cho. " A mind sincere is ever least suspitious :
" These think all faultie, who themselves are vitious."
" With teares of crocodiles they so lamented." — 1604.
The Tragedy of Darius. 7 7
Nun. They urg'd him with the king to interceed,
That in his favour he would give them place,
And did protest that by some valorous deed,
They labour would to gaine againe his grace ;
Then Artabazus came and told the king,
That in the battell he might try their faith,
And both before his majestic did bring,
Who (when submisse) did quickly calme his wrath.
With hands stretch'd up to heaven, and humbled
knees,
With teares like those which crocodiles doe shed.
Woe in their face and pitie in their eyes,
Did for compassion (though from rigour) pleade.
The king of nature milde did them receave,
And them (who thus but for the forme complain'd)
Not onely all (relenting) quite forgave;
But wept in earnest too whil'st they but fain'd ;
When in his coach from all suspition free.
With count'nance sad long following on behind e
(As still pretending supplicants to be)
They bow'd to him whom they were bent to binde ;
The Grecian captaine curiously neare
(When mark'd a suter) crav'd what he requir'd,
By pregnant proofes did evidently cleare,
What treason was against his state conspir'd:
He told what way their purpose might be tri'd,
And how the Bactrians were for trouble bent,
Then for his safety pray'd him to provide,
By straight with him retyring to his tent;
But in the king who did neglect his state,
No kinde of care this friendly offer bred :
78 Stirling' s Poems.
So that (it seem'd) he by some pow'rfull fate
Was head-long forward to confusion led :
The Greeke past thence despairing him to save,
Who thus all meanes to help himselfe refus 'd ;
With subtle words then Bessiis there did crave
To purge himselfe, and errours past excus'd;
Old Artabazus happ'ning to approach,
The king to him did Patrons speech report,
Who then perceiv'd what danger did encroach,
And wish'd he would where Greeks were strong resort.
But in his breast this purpose firmly plac'd,
That from his subjects he would never flie,
With mutuall teares they tenderly embrac'd.
And parted there, like two who went to dye.
Now silent night in pitchie vapours cled,
Had must'red mysts, and march'd out of the west;
(Dayes beauties darkning, shadowie horrours spread)
The sentinels were set, and all at rest.
When (loe) a terrour did distract the host !
Whose bands to murmure were dispers'd in parts,
With sounds resembling ships in stormes neare lost,
Whilst each to other cause of feare imparts.
Those who their king appointed were to guard.
From what was due by fraud or feare did stray;
And (to his danger having no regard)
His fortunes minions fled with her away.
The desolation then growne wondrous great,
With some few eunuchs Darius left alone,
(No strength remaining, nor no signe of state)
He thus them spake, who for his fall did mone :
Go, part in peace ere further harme be had,
The Tragedy of Darius. 79
Lest that my ruine likewise you surprise.
They hearing those sad words (as men gone mad)
Went howling through the host with dolorous cryes ;
So that all those who heard what plaints they made,
Thought that they had their soveraigns death bewail'd ;
And (forcing trust) some forg'd reports were spread,
That he had kill'd himselfe, all hope quite fail'd.
The Persians griev'd whilst these things did occurre,
Did first encourage all their countrey bands
To help their prince, but yet they durst not stirre
For feare of falling in the Bactrians hands;
Even in the time when this confusion was,
The traitors to deferre the fact no more,
Did to their soveraignes tent with squadrons passe,
And took, and bound, him whom they serv'd before;
AVho in a golden coach once proudly rode,
Was throwne in one for common carriage us'd,
And who of late was honour'd like a god,
Two of his owne (as if their slave) abus'd :
Those royall hands to beare a scepter borne.
Were basely bound, and which the more him griev'd,
" (Thus misery can hardly scape from scorne)
" With bands of gold, which burden'd, not reliev'd."
When Alexander (great with courage) spy'd
Our armies flie, he (who in hope them chac'd)
To follow us with diligence did ride,
" Base seem'd the conquest which no danger grac'd ;"
But when at last at length by some inform'd
How he was made a captive to his owne.
At this indignity he highly storm'd.
As if by it his hopes had beene o're-throwne.
8o Sfir/h/s^'s Poems.
■<b
Out of his host he did select a few
Who were best hors'd, and fit for such a fight,
With whom his foes he did so fast pursue,
That e're they could suspect, he came in sight :
The traitors vex'd when spying him appeare,
Came to the cart whereas the king did stay,
And call'd to horse in haste, since foes were neare,
Lest that they else might finde him for a prey.
He look'd aloft, and cry'd aloud, I see
That Nemesis is frowning from above;
Should I with traitors as a captive be?
And flie from him, who but brave warres doth move ?
Then those in whom impiety abounds,
Throw' d darts at him (vile beasts to be abhorr'd)
And hurt the horses with an hundred wounds.
Then men more trusty, dying for their Lord ;
As false in hearts, so feeble with their hands,
When guilt and danger doubled had despaires.
The traitors first, then all their trait'rous bands
Fled from a number lesse by halfe then theirs.
But to the bounds of deaths pale kingdome brought,
The king retyr'd where least by people spy'd,
More wounded with ingratitude then ought.
Did leave the world, whose folly he had tried ;
The last divorce which lasts, was scarcely made
Twixt soule and body whil'st the eyes grew dim,
When Alexander came and found him dead,
Who labour'd had so long to ruine him.
And (whil'st his teares a generall mourning mov'd)
That stately vesture which himselfe array' d,
(Much fear'd for valour, more for vertue lov'd)
The Tragedy of Darius. 8i
With his owne hand on Darius corps he lay'd ;
Then waihng long as for a brother lost
To have his funerals furnish'd like a kings,
He bids you use his wealth, and spare no cost ;
For, you shall want no necessary things.
He hath his body hither sent by me,
And funerall rites solemnly bent to do,
He thinks that they may best accomplish'd be,
Whil'st who him bred doth see him buried too.
Cho. Behold how griefe hath her of sense bereft,
Whil'st breath for passage strugling is with grones,
No will, nor pow'r to live, just griefe hath left.
Since what she valued vanish'd is at once.
Sis. Ah! shall I see (no, let me first be blinde)
That body breathlesse, which I brought to light?
Where would my soule a force sufficient finde
That could encounter with so sad a sight?
O flinty heart! what hinders thee to breake,
Since (crush'd with cares) a stranger to repose?
Why part'st thou not (poore soule) that whil'st I speake
In opening of my lips, mine eyes may close?
This heritage of death, this wither'd stocke
Is but a place appointed for despaires,
A torture to it selfe, a stumbling block,
Whose aged furrows fertile are in cares.
Once for good fortunes, now for bad design'd,
(To state betray'd) drawne forth from calme repose.
To have beene happie most afflicts my minde,
Who, rais'd to fall, got much, the more to lose.
Ah me ! malitious fates have done me wrong.
Who first come to the world, should first depart,
VOL. II. G
82 Stirling's Poems.
And ah! why should the old o're-live the yong?
This Nature wrongs by a prepost'rous art \
Ah! why should death so indiscreet be found
To spare a caitive, and to spoyle a prince?
My halfe-dead body, bending to the ground,
Through griefe is grown ripe for the grave long since.
Chorus.
What makes vaine worldlings so to swell with pride,
Who come of th' earth, and soone to th' earth returned
" So heUish furies with their fire-brands burne
" Proud and ambitious men, that they divide
" Them from themselves, and so turmoyle their mindes,
'' That all their time they study still
" How to content a boundlesse will,
" Which never yet a full contentment findes;
" Who so this flame within his bosome smothers,
'•' He many fancies doth contrive,
" And even forgets himselfe alive,
" To be remembered after death by others;
" Thus while he is, his paines are never ended,
" That whir St he is not, he may be commended."
What can this help the happinesse of kings
So to subdue their neighbours as they do?
And make strange nations tributaries too ?
" The greater state, the greater trouble brings;"
Their pompes and triumphs stand them in no stead ;
Their arches, tcunbes, pyramides high.
And statues are but vanity :
The Tragedy of Darius. 83
They dye, and yet would live in what is dead ;
And while they live, we see their glorious actions
Oft wrested to the worst, and all their life
Is but a stage of endlesse toyle, and strife,
Of tumults, uproares, mutinies, and factions ;
" They rise with feare, and lye with danger downe,
" Huge are the cares which wait upon a crowne/'
And as ambition princes under-mynes ;
So doth it those who under them rule all :
We see in how short time they rise and fall,
How oft their light ecclips'd but dimmely shines ;
They long time labour by all meanes to move
Their prince to value much their parts,
And when ad vane' d by subtle arts,
O what a danger is 't to be above !
For, straight expos'd to hatred, and despight,
With all their skill they cannot march so even ;
But some opprobrious scandall will be given :
For all men envy them who have most might ;
" And if the king dislike them once, then straight
" The wretched courtiers fall with their owne weight."
Some of a sprite more poore, who would be prais'd,
And yet have nought for which to be esteem' d,
What they are not in deed would faine be deem'd,
And indirectly labour to be rais'd.
This crue each pubUcke place of honour haunts,
And (changing garments every day)
Whil'st they would hide, do but bewray
With outward ornaments their inward wants ;
84 Stirling's Poems.
And men of better judgement justly loath
Those, who in outward shows place all their care,
And decke their bodies, whil'st their mindes are bare,
Like to a shadow, or a painted cloth,
The multitude which but th' apparrell notes,
Doth homage, not to them, but to their cotes.
Yet princes must be served, and with all sorts :
Some both to do, and counsell what is best,
Some serve for cyphers to set out the rest.
Like life-lesse pictures which adorne the ports;
" Faire palaces replenish'd are with feares,
" Those seeming pleasures are but snares,
" The royall robe doth cover cares ;
" Th' Assyrian dye deare buys he who it beares ;
" Those dainty delicates, and farre-fetch'd food,
" Oft (through suspition) savour out of season,
" Embrodred beds, and tapestries hatch treason;
" The golden goblets mingled are with bloud.
" Such shows the shadows are when greatnesse
shines,
" Whose state by them the gazing world divines."
O happie he who farre from fame at home.
Securely sitting by a quiet fire,
(Though having little) doth not more desire.
But first himselfe, then all things doth o'ercome;
His purchase weigh' d, or what his parents left.
He squares his charges to his store,
And takes not what he must restore.
Nor eates the spoyles that from the poore were Jeft:
The Tragedy of Darius. 85
Not proud, nor base, he (scorning creeping art)
From jealous thoughts and envy free,
No poyson feares in cups of tree;
No treason harbours in so poore a part :
No heavy dreame doth vex him when he sleeps,
" A guiltlesse minde the guardlesse cottage keeps."
He doth not studie much what stormes may blow,
Whose poverty can hardly be impair'd;
He fears no forraine force, nor craves no guard ;
None doth desire his spoyle, none looks so low.
Whereas the great are commonly once crost,
As Darius hath beene in his flowre.
Or Sisiga7nbis at this houre,
Who hath scap'd long, and now at length is lost :
But how comes thisj that potentates oft fall,
And must confesse this trouble of their soule?
There is some higher pow'r that can controull,
The monarchs of the earth, and censure all :
Who once will call their actions to account,
And them represse who to oppresse were prompt.
THE
ALEXANDRIAN TRAGEDY.
THE ARGUMENT.
When Alexander the Great, after all his conquests (shining with
the glory of innumerable victories) was returned backe to
Babylon, where the Ambassadours of the whole world did attend
his coming, as one who was expected to command over all : there,
being admired by the Grecians, adored by the Barbarians, and
as it were drank with the delights of an extraordinary prosperity,
he suffered himselfe to be transported with an inundation of
pleasure ; till, sitting at one of his feasts by the meanes of the
Sonne oi Antipater, one of his cup-bearers, in the best both of
his age and fortune, he was suddenly poysoned.
Incontinent after his death, those who were in greatest estima-
tion with himselfe during his life, and then with the Armie,
assembled themselves together, neglecting for a long time his
funerals, whilest busied about the disposing of his empire : at last
(after divers opinions) it was concluded, that if Roxane, the widow
of their Soveraigne, (who was then at the point to be delivered of
her birth) happened to beare a sonue, he should succeed in his
fathers place, and till he were come to some maturity of age,
Ferdiccas, Leonatus, Crater us, and Antipater were appointed to
be his tutors : But the foot-men in a disdaine, that their advice
was not required, proclaimed Arideits, Alexanders bastard brother,
king, and gave him a guard, of which J\Ieleager procured himselfe
to be made captaine. At this sudden alteration, the horse-men
being troubled, following Perdiccas, pitched their camp without
the city, yet in the end, this tumult being by the eloquence of
Perdiccas appeased, all the captains re-assembled themselves, and
having divided the provinces, made an agreement, which lasted
not long.
For, such was the vehement ambition of those great men, that
with all manner of hostility, they studied how to undemiine one
another, and first of all Meleager after a pretended reconciliation
(though having fled to a temple for refuge) was slaine by the
The Argument. 89
appointment of Perdkcas, who (after aspiring to a superiority over
the rest) whilest he went to warre against Ptolomie in u^gypt, by
a sudden mutiny of his owne souldiers, was miserably murdered.
Then the onely captaine of his faction who remained alive,
was Eumenes, a man singularly valorous, who encountring with
Craterns and Neoptolemus, by the death of themselves defeated
their army, whereby being highly advanced, he was greatly
envied: and {Leonatiis having lately before dyed in a conflict
betwixt him and the Athenians). Antig07ius in the name of the
rest, was sent against him with a great army, betwixt whom
there having passed divers skirmishes with a variable successe, and
some private conference without agi-eement : In the end he was
betrayed by his o^vne souldiers, and delivered bound to Antigonus,
who shortly after caused to take his life.
Then Antigomis (his rivals in the authoritie being removed out
of his way) did aspire to that himselfe, from which he was sent to
seclude others, and having murdered divers of the govemours, he
disposed of their Provinces as he pleased : whereof Cassandcr,
Ptolomie, and Lysiniachus, advertised by Seletiats, who fled for
feare of incurring the like danger; did enter together in a league
against Antigonus.
Now at this time Olympias plagued all the faction of Cassandcr
in Maccdonie, having caused Arideus and his Queen Eurydice to
be put to death ; by which, and by some other craelties (having
lost the favour of the people) she was constrained, when Cassander
came against her, to retyre herselfe within a town; which (by
reason of the scarcitie of victuals (not being able to defend) she
rendered, together with herselfe to Cassander, by whom notwith-
standing of his promise to the contrary) she was violently deprived
of life, and so having proceeded so farre in wickednesse, he thought
it no time to retyre till he had extingiiished all his master's race;
whereupon he caused Roxane and her sonne to be murthered, and
soone after, Hercules, Alexanders bastard sonne; which multitude
of murthers, gave to him the crowne of Macedonie, and to me the
subject of Polytragicke Tragedie.
THE PERSONS NAMES WHO SPEAKE.
The Ghost <?/" Alexander.
Olympias, his Mother.
Roxane, his Wife.
Aristotle, his Master-.
Phocion, his old Friend.
Philastrus, a Chaldean.
Chorus.
f Perdiccas.
Meleager.
Ptolomie.
Antigonus.
EUMENES.
Lysimachus.
Seleucus.
(^Cassander.
his greatest
Captaines.
THE
ALEXANDRIAN TRAGEDY.
ACT I.
The Ghost ^/Alexander the Great.
Back from th' umbragious caves (still rob'd of rest)
Must I returne, where Phcebns glides the fields,
A ghost not worthy to be Fluids guest,
Since one to whom the world no buriall yeelds?
O what a great disgrace is this to me,
Whose trophees fame in many a kingdom keeps.
That I (contemn'd) cannot transported be
A passenger for the sulphurean deeps 1
Dare churlish Charon (though not us'd to bow)
The raging torrent of my wrath gain-stand?
Must I succumbe amidst hells dungeons now,
Though all the world accustom'd to command?
But it may be that this hath wrought me harme,
What bloudlesse ghosts do stray on Stygian banks,
Whose falls (made famous by my fatail arme)
Gave terrour oft to many martiall ranks'?
Yet (for a prey expos' d to ravenous beasts)
92 Stirling'' s Poems.
Could never have the honour of a tombe;
But (though for such rude guests too pretious feasts)
Were basely buried in a brutish wombe.
Thus (as it seemes) the horrour of such deeds,
With like indignity attends my sprite;
What stormy breast this thirst of vengeance breeds,
To plague for that which valour did acquite 1
Ah! might Alcmends sonne (as sonne oi love)
Once force the driery forts of endlesse night,
To match sterne Dis in the Tartarian grove,
And draw forth foaming Cerberus to light?
Then leading Theseus through the dungeons darke,
A second rape aym'd for their ravish'd queene.
Durst he (hells terrour) force the fatall barke.
By squadrons pale (an envi'd victor) scene "?
And in my rage may I not tosse this round.
Till roaring earthquakes all the world affright,
Heaven stain'd, hell clear'd, earth torne, all to confound
Enlightning darknesse, or else darkning light?
What, though I from terrestrial regions swerve,
Whom in this state (it may be) some mistake?
May not the voyce of Alexander serve
To make th' earth tremble, and the depths to shake?
Or, straight return'd, shall I my fortune trust,
And th' earth dispeople, slaughtring scatter'd hosts;
Then Pluto plague, all charg'd with bloud and dust,
When men are kill'd to be a king of ghosts?
O how I burst to thinke how some above.
Who for their glory did my steps attend,
My offsprings title proudly do disprove.
And to my chaire by violence ascend :
The Alexandrcean Tragedy. 93
" Ingratitude doth grieve a generous sprite,"
Would God therefore that with a body stor'd,
I might returne these traitours to acquite,
My back with amies, my hand charg'd with a sword :
As when I entred in a populous towne,
To warre alone with thousands in my wrath,
Whil'st (prizing honour dearer then my crowne)
Each of my blows gave wounds, each wound gave
death :
Then thundring vengeance on rebellious bands,
I would make them redeeme my grace with grones,
Where now my ghost (empall'd with horror) stands,
Lesse grac'd then those whom I commanded once ;
And yet the glory by those captaines had,
Whom first my ensignes did acquaint with fame,
Doth make my soule (whil'st hating them) more sad,
Then all the suff'rings that the hells can claime.
O now I see what all my minions blindes,
To grace my funerals that they take no paine !
My state (betraying me) distracts their mindes.
Who have forgot all love, save love to raigne,
But Ptolomie doth yet by time intend
To Alexandria to transport me once,
Not niov'd by love, no, for another end.
In hope my fortune will attend my bones.
And must I then so great a trouble have
(To whom the earth did all belong before)
For some few foots of earth to be a grave,
Which meane men get, and great men get no more?
Though many thousand at my signe did bow.
Is this the end or all my conquests then
94 Stirlmg's Poatis.
To be thus barr'd that Uttle circuit now,
A benefit even common unto men?
But of those kingdomes which were thrall to me,
Lest that a little part my body bound,
Th' earth arch'd with heaven my fatall bed should be,
Still unconfin'd, and even when dead, yet crown'd.
O bhnde ambition ! great mindes viprous brood.
The scourge of raankinde, and the foe to rest,
Thou guilty art of many millions bloud,
And whil'st I raign'd, didst raigne within my brest;
This to my soule but small contentment brings,
That I some cities rear'd, and others raz'd :
And made kings captives ; captives to be kings,
Then whil'st the wond'ring world did stand amaz'd.
All that doth now but torture after death,
Which rais'd my fame on pillars more then rare ;
0 costly conquest of a little breath,
Whose flattring sounds both go and come with th' aire !
Can I be he who thought it a disgrace
To be but weigh' d with other mortals even,
Who would be held of an immortall race.
The off-spring of great love, the heire of heaven 1
By many meanes I all mens mindes did move,
For altars (as a God) with off'rings stor'd,
Till of his glory love did jealous prove :
" All kings should reverenc'd be, but not ador'd."
Ah ! whil'st (transported with a prosp'rous state)
1 toil'd to raise my throne above the starres.
The thund'rer straight (who still doth pride abate)
Did wound my fame with most infamous warres.
Made I not grave Calistenes to smart,
The Alexandrcean Tragedy. 95
Who did disdaine a mortall to adore,
(What knowne unknowing) bent by fooHsh art,
Though but a man to be imagin'd more?
All fear'd the danger of my roaring wrath,
(Like lyons when asleep) which none durst wake ;
My fury was the messenger of death,
Which when enflam'd, made flaming squadrons quake:
Ambition did so farre my thoughts engage.
That I could not abide my fathers praise,
But (though my friend) kill'd Clitus in a rage,
Who Philips fame durst in my presence raise.
Thus though that I mine enemies did abate,
I made my greatest friends become my foes.
Who did my insolence (as barbarous hate)
And for the like afraid wail'd others woes.
Those tyrannies which thousands chanc'd to see
As inhumane a multitude admir'd;
And my familiars strangers growne with me,
As from a tyrant for distrust retyr'd:
Yea, there were many too who did conspire
By base ambushments to have snar'd my life,
Of all my labours, loe, this was the hire !
" Those must have store of toils who toile for strife,"
And I remember that amid'st my joyes,
(Even whir St the chase of armies was my sport)
There wanted not a number of annoyes
To counter-poise my pleasures in some sort.
" Of those on the earth most happy that remaine,
" (As ag'd experience constantly records)
" The pleasures farre exceeded are by paine :
" Life greater griefe then comfort still affords."
g6 Stirling' s Poems.
What griefe, no, rather rage did seize my soule.
Whil'st bigge with hopes a battell bent to prove !
That sudden sicknesse did my course controuU,
Which (cold when kinde) embracing iiouds did move ! *
From the physician then (though deem'd for ill)
I took his potion, gave him scandalous lines;
Then whil'st he red did drinke, yet ey'd him still,
And by accusing looks sought guilty signes;
Not that suspitious feares could make me sad,
This was the ground whence did proceed my paine,
Lest death my victory prevented had :
For, I was sure still where I sought to gaine,
But when that I extended had my state
From learned Athens to the barbarous Indes,
Still my tumultuous troups my pride did hate,
As monstrous mutinies unmask'd their mindes.
I (so my name more wonderfull to make)
Of Hercules, and Bacchus past the bounds.
And (whil'st that Memnons sunne-burnt bands did
quake)
Did write my worth in many a monarchs wounds.
Kings were my subjects, and my servants kings,
Yet my contentment further did require,
For, I imagin'd still more mighty things.
And to a greater greatnesse did aspire.
The spatious carriere of the speedy sunne,
(All quickly thrall'd) like lightning I o're-ran :
Yet wept, and wish'd more worlds t' have been wonne,
As this had wanted roome to ease one man,
No wonder I was thought a god by some,
* " Which Lidnus cold embracings chanc'd to moue." — 1604.
The Akxandrcean Tragedy. 97
Since all my aymes (though high as heaven) prevail'd,
And what man (save my selfe) did still o're-come ?
Of all my fancies, never project fail'd.
This made me thought immortaliz'd to be,
Which in all mindes amazement yet contracts :
I led blinde fortune, and she courted me,
As glad to grace the greatnesse of my acts.
Yet I have found it a more easie thing,
To conquer all whereon the sunne ere shin'd.
Then mine owne selfe, and (of my passions king)
To calme the tumults of a stormy minde.
What comfort justly could my soule receive
Of all my conquests past, if that even then
Whil'st I triumph'd (to wrath and wine a slave)
I scap'd not scandall more then other men ;
Ah ! (seazing without right on every state)
I but my selfe too great a monarch made,
Since all men gap'd to get the golden bait
Which by my death seem'd easie to be had;
Whil'st from humanity too much divorc'd.
My deeds all hearts with feare, and horrour fill'd,
I who by foes could never have beene forc'd.
By friends did fall, yet not over-com'd, but kill'd.
But now I see the troublous time draws neare.
When they shall keep my obsequies with bloud :
No wonder too, though such a warriours beere.
At last doth swimme amidst a scarlet floud :
For, as my life did breed huge broils o're all.
My death must be the cause of monstrous cumbers.
And it doth best become a strong mans fall.
To be renown' d by ruining of numbers.
VOL. II. H
98 Stirling's Poems.
The snake-tress' d sisters now shall never need
Their fatall fire-brands, loathsome Pluto's pests,
Nor inspirations strange whose rage doth breed
A thirst of murther in transported brests.
Ambitions flames may from my ashes shine
To burne my minions mindes with high desires,
Each of their sprits that hath a spark of mine.
To ruine all the world, may furnish fires.
The beauties of the earth shall all look red,
Whil'st my lievtenants through that pride of theirs,
With armes unkinde huge streames of bloud do shed,
By murthering of my heires, to be my heires.
Is this that greatnesse which I did designe,
By being eminent, to be o'rethrowne.
To ruine first my selfe, then root out mine ;
As conquering others, but to lose mine owne?
0 happie I, more happie farre my race !
If pleas'd with that which was our ancient rent,
1 manag'd had th' .■EnKxthian power in peace,
Which was made lawfuU by a long discent :
Then farre sequestred from BelloJids rage,
I had the true delights of nature tri'd,
And ag'd with honour, honour'd in my age,
Had left my sonne secure before I dy'd;
And he inheriting a quiet state
(Which then because lesse great had beene more sure)
Had (free from envy) not beene harm'd by hate,
Which of most states the ruine doth procure;
But since they will en-earth my earthly part,
Which now no badge of majestic retaines,
To roaring Phlegeton I must depart
The Alexandrmaii Tragedy. 99
Farre from the lightsome bounds of th' aiery plaines,
And must I there who did the world surmount
(Arrested by the monarch of the ghosts)
To Rhadamanthus render an account
Of all the deeds done by my ravenous hosts'?
There whil'st with Minos ^Eacus sits downe,
A rigorous judge in hels most horrid court,
With me who passe his nephew in renowne,
(Though of his race) he no way will comport.
O what pale ghosts are here together brought,
Which were of bodies spoil'd by my decree !
And first Parnienio without whom I nought
But who did many great things without me :
At the tribunal of Tartariafi pow'rs,
He aggravates ingratitude too great,
And (whil'st the raging tyrant foaming lowres)
All whom I wrong' d, for vengence do entreat :
Yet guilty thoughts torment me most of all,
No spirit can be by plaguing furies pin'd,
(Though charg'd without with snakes, within with gall)
As by the stings of a remording minde.
If it be true that drowsie Lcthcs streames
In darke oblivion drowne all things at last,
There, let me bury farre from Phoebus beames.
The loath'd remembrance of my labours past. {Exit.
Chorus,
What strange adventures now
Distract distressed mindes
With such most monstrous formes?
I oo Stirling's Poems.
When silence doth allow
The peace that nature findes,
And that tumultuous windes
Do not disturbe with stormes
An universall rest :
When Morpheus hath represt
Th' impetuous waves of cares,
And with a soft sleepe bindes,
Those tyrants of the brest,
Which would spread forth most dangerous snares,
To sink affliction in despaires :
Huge horrours then arise
The elements to marre,
With most disastrous signes :
Arm'd squadrons in the skies,
With lances throwne from farre,
Do make a monstrous warre,
Whil'st furie nought confines :
The dragons vomit fire,
And make the starres retire
Out of their orbes for feare,
To satisfie their ire,
Which heavens high buildings not forbear,
But seem the crystall towres to teare ;
Amidst the ayre, fierce blasts
Doe boast with blustring sounds.
To crush this mighty frame,
Which (whilst the tempest lasts)
Doth rent the stately rounds.
To signifie what wounds
To all her off-springs shame
The Alexandrian Tragedy. loi
Shall burst th' earths veynes with bloud,
And this all-circling floud,
(As it the heavens would drowne)
Doth passe the bounding bounds,
And all the scalie brood,
Reare roaring Neptiines foamie crowne,
Whilst th' earth for feare seems to sinke downe,
Those whom it hid with horrour!
Their ashy lodgings leave,
To re-enjoy the light,
Or else some panicke terrour
Our judgement doth bereave.
Whilst first we misconceive,
And so prejudge the sight;
Or, in the bodies stead.
The genius of the dead
Turnes backe from Styx againe,
Which Dis will not receive,
Till it a time engendring dread,
Plague (whilst it doth on th' earth remaine)
All else with feare, it selfe with paine.
These fearefull signes fore-show
(All nations to appall)
What plagues are to succeed.
Since death hath lay'd him low.
Who first had made us thrall.
We heard that straight his fall
Our hberty would breed;
But this proves no reliefe;
For many (O what griefe !)
The place of one supply;
I02 Stirling's Poems.
And we must sufifer all ;
Thus was our comfort briefe :
O ! rarely doe usurpers dye,
But others will their fortune try.
ACT II. SCENE I.
Ferdiccas, Mekager, Ftolomie, Antigonus, Etimenes.
Per. What eye (not big with teares) can view this
host,
Which hath in one (ah, as the end doth prove)
A king, a captaine, and a brother, lost,
Crown' d, follow'd, try'd, by right, for worth, in love?
I thinke amongst us all, there is not one,
Whom divers favours doe not justly binde
To please that Heroes ghost (though from us gone)
With all the ofif'rings of a thankefull minde.
Ah, had the fates beene subject to my will,
So great a losse should not have crost our life;
But we had kept great Alexander still,
And he those kingdomes which procure this strife.
" Yet heavens decrees can never be recall'd,
" And thoughts of harme past helpe, breed double
paine,
" Though once to griefe a space, by passions thrall'd,
" The living must embrace the world againe."
As one whose intrest in that prince was chiefe,
A sorrow singular my soule affects,
But I will not defraud the generall griefe,
To waile a-part particular respects.
The Alexandrian Tragedy. 103
Though all the ayre still ecchoes plaintive sounds
Of widow'd hopes now wedded to despaires,
Yet time must cicatrize our inward wounds,
And to the publike good draw private cares.
Let us give physicke to the sickned state,
Which at this present in great danger stands,
Whilst grudging subjects that our greatnesse hate,
By bloud would venge their violated lands.
" Those who by force are thrall'd, to be made free,
" Precipitate themselves in dangers still,
" And this of nature seemes a rule to be :
" What realme not scornes to serve a strangers willl
" From forc'd obedience, nought but hate proceeds;
" The more we have subdu'd, the more our foes : "
A soveraigne head this states huge body needs.
That might make us securely to repose:
And who more meet to have that great mans place,
Of those whose states he tooke who gain'd the hearts,
Then one descended from that regall race,
Whose birth both worth and right to raigne imparts?
If heavens enrich Roxane with a sonne,
That long'd-for birth a lawfull soveraigne brings.
And till that course of doubtfull hopes be runne,
Let some be nam'd who manage may all things.
Anti. The Macedonians (swolne with wrath) would
scorne,
That to their king a stranger should succeed :
Can men obey a babe, a babe not borne?
What fancies strange would this confusion breed?
This could not well become our grave foresight,
A doubtfull birth so long t' attend, in vaine.
I04 Stirling's Poems.
Which may abortive be, and brought to lights
(Through natures errour) made not apt to raigne.
But if affection carry us so farre,
That of that race we must be rul'd by some,
Though neither train'd by time in peace, nor warre.
As those who must indeed by kinde o're-come :
Then have we Hercules the eldest sonne,
To our great prince by faire Barsincs borne,
Who fourteene yeares of age, hath now begun
His princely birth by vertue to adorne.
Ptol. To thinke of this, it makes my soule asham'd.
That we should serve a base barbarians brood,
What? should we beare the yoke that we have fram'd?
To buy disgrace, have we bestow' d our bloud?
Our ancestors whose glory we obscur'd,
Would get some vantage of their offspring thus :
That peoples bondage they would have procur'd,
And have we warr'd to make them lords o're us?
Ah, bury this as a most odious thing,
AVhich may bring danger, and must breed our scorne.
Though (in effect) descended from our king.
They (come of captives) are but basely borne.
O ! brave Leouidcs, I like thy strife.
Who with so few perform'd so glorious things,
And death preferr'd before th' infamous life,
Which bondage still from a barbarian brings.
Those (loath to take a stranger for their lord)
Did with their bloud renowne a forraigne field,
And shall we honour them whom they abhorr'd,
And even (though victors) to the vanquish'd yeeld]
To what did tend that eminent attempt,
The Alexmidraan Tragedy. 105
Which makes the Persians yet abase their brow %
But to our countries scorne (in a contempt)
To take by force that which we offer now.
Was this the scope of all our conquests then,
Of abject captives to be made the preyl
No, let us still command like valorous men,
And rule our empire by some other way.
May we not use this policy a space,
Till time afford, or we a course devise?
Least dangerous discord doe disturbe our peace,
Still when we would of serious things advise;
With majestic let us assembled be,
A sacred senate with a chayre of state,
That of the soveraigne pow'r all signes may see.
Then whilst we compasse that respected seate :
There those who were in credit with the king.
Whose merits in mens mindes have reverence bred,
Shall (weigh'd by judgement) ballance every thing:
How kingdomes should be rul'd, how armies led ;
" And what the greatest part hath once approv'd,
" To that the rest will willingly incline;"
By such a harmony the army mov'd,
Will execute whatever we designe.
This concord would prove happy for us all,
Which each mans state free from all danger renders :
And by this meanes our Macedonie shall
In place of one, have many Alexanders.
Ellin. Though silence (I confesse) becomes me best,
Who am a stranger, and the lesse beleev'd.
Yet of your toyles since I a partner rest,
I must unfold my minde, a minde much griev'd :
io6 Stirlins's Poems,
<b
And thinke you that a babe repairs our losse?
How can good wits so grossly be beguil'd?
This in all countries hath been thought a crosse :
" Woe to that soile whose soveraigne is a childe."
Nor would these great men (as is thought) agree,
They be too many bodies for one minde :
Ah (pardon Flolo/nie) it cannot be,
This union would disjoyne us all I finde :
Thus would the army from good order swei"ve,
" If many might forgive, all would offend,
" As thinking well though they did death deserve :
" No man so bad, but some will him befriend."
And when so many kings were in one court.
One court would then have many humours too,
Which fostring factions for each light report,
Would make them jarre as neighbouring princes doe;
No, let this strange designe be quite supprest,
" Whilst equall all, all would unequall be,"
So that their mindes (by jealousie possest)
From pale suspition never could be free.
But ah ! what needs contention at this time.
To cloud a matter that was made so cleare :
And doe you now account it not a crime.
To damne his will, who once was held so deare?
When that great monarch march'd to match with
death,
Whilst all his captaines were assembled there,
And did demand (whilst he dispos'd of breath)
Whom he himselfe adopted for his heire :
Then (that none might such doubtfull questions breed)
As loving valour more then his owne race :
The Alexandrcean Tragedy. 107
He (that a brave man, brave men might succeed)
Said : let the worthiest have the worthiest place.
Nor did he speake this in a secret part,
With double words which might more doubt have mov'd,
As breathing thoughts in each ambitious heart,
To have his worth in Vulcans fornace prov'd :
For, whil'st ye hedg'd the fatall bed about,
(With an unpartiall care distracted long)
Then he amongst you all did chuse one out,
Who for so great a charge did seeme most strong.
He to Perdiccas did present the ring
That us'd to scale the secrets of the state,
By which it seem'd that he design'd him king,
And so would seaze him of the regall seat.
Thus made this worthy man a worthy choice.
That further strife might not the state deforme,
And all the world now justly may rejoyce,
That who rais'd many, did prevent this storme.
For, if he had not thus declar'd his will,
Yee {Mars his minions) should have liv'd at jarres :
Whil'st emulation amongst equals still,
Had made sterne trumpets thunder civill warres ;
What huge disorders threatned to burst forth.
If that our soveraigne had no prince design'd.
Who oft hath beene a witnesse of our worth.
And can weigh vertue in a vertuous minde?
I see consenting signes applaud my speech :
Rise, doe, Perdiccas, that which they decree,
Whil'st modesty doth majesty impeach.
Though thou crav'st not this crowne, this crowne
craves thee.
io8 Stirling's Poems.
Mel. I wonder not though thus Perdiccas shrinke,
To take this place, still brag'd with new alarmes :
The sunne must make nights ugly bird to winke :
This scepter weighs, too much for so weake armes.
The gods will never grant, nor men agree,
That such a one should tyrannize o're us :
Though vulgar mindes might yeeld his thralls to be,
His betters scorne to bow so basely thus.
He would have us Roxanes birth t' attend.
Which though it come to passe as some expect,
He can exchange, or cause be brought to end,
As bent to like all meanes, when one effect.
Thus would he temporize to our great scorne,
Till time might helpe to further his designes :
No kings Perdiccas likes, but babes unborne ;
He labours well in undiscovered mynes.
I need not now insist to tell at large,
What brave men are amid'st this martiall band,
Who better doe deserve so great a charge,
Both for their skill, and courage to command;
Yet are the best not worthy to succeed,
That man admir'd who never can be match'd,
The thought of whom must make our mindes to bleed,
Whose adversaries this advantage watch'd.
But, if that great man did consent so soone,
That our obedience should be thus abus'd.
Of all that ever yet he would have done,
I thinke this onely ought to be refus'd.
That valorous band, whose worth the world oft prov'd.
Then, whil'st their glory shin'd through silver shields:
By all that monarchs deeds when no way mov'd,
The Alexandrian Tragedy. 109
(As conquer'd) would have left the conquer'd fields.
And when despising such a princes throne,
To whom his ancestors their scepter brought,
What reverence would they beare to such a one,
Who all this time was as their equall thought?
" To those who o're their equals raise their state,
" Advancement envy breeds, and envy hate;
" If such with all would rest familiar still,
'' This in contempt the soveraigne title brings :_
"And if they second not their subjects will,
'' Men cannot beare with them, as with borne kings."
Our lofty bands some lofty minde must tame.
Whose princely birth doth procreate regard ;
Whose country may confound each slandrous clayme.
As one with whom none else can be compar'd.
Loe, Alexanders brother, Philips sonne,
Who alwayes was a partner of our paine :
Can there be any else below the sunne,
O're Macedonians who deserves to raigne?
And I must wonder what so strange offence
Hath forfeited his tide, maym'd his right?
That any now with a disguis'd pretence
Dare wrong him thus, even in his peoples sight.
Ptol None needs to wonder much, though we
neglect
One whose election might procure our shame :
His mothers basenesse, justice might object,
Whom bastardy secludes from such a claime.
But yet had nature purg'd the spot she made,
We with his birth the better might comport,
If (like his syre, fierce squadrons fit to leade)
no Stirling's Poe7ns
'<b
His parts were such as might the state import;
He falsifies his race, of wit so weake,
That all his inward wants are soone perceiv'd,
All of his judgement in derision speake,
By which great things can hardly be conceiv'd :
And though his body might from paines be spar'd,
Whose constitution is not very strong ;
But with infirmities so farre impair'd,
That it alive cannot continue long ;
" Yet since in state he never hath been school'd,
" His ignorance would racke him still with feares :
" Whil'st he who rul'd, still needing to be rul'd,
"Spoke but with others tongues, heard with their
eares.
" A king inconstant, great confusion makes,
" Whom all mistrust, and most amid'st a campe :
" Whilst (soft like waxe) he each impression takes
" A little labour changing still the stampe ;
" Ah, should our lives depend upon his breath,
" Who of himselfe cannot discerne a crime :
" But for each rash report damnes men to death,
" Then yeelds a fruitlesse pitty out of time.
" Thus whilst some ahvaies must his judgement sway,
" Which still doth harbour in anothers head,
" Of sycophants this prince may be the prey,
" Who where they list him (as quite blinde) will leade.
" And since but base, that they may be the best,
" Such still will toyle, that we may be o'rethrowne :
" And to the credulous king may meanes suggest,
" To taint our fame, lest it obscure their owne."
What gi-iefe were this to us, whilst such as those
The Alexandrxaji Tragedy. 1 1 1
Might make their vantage of th' all-pow'rfull breath ?
And that our actions balanc'd by our foes,
Were guerdon'd with disdaine, or else with death %
Mel. Since private hopes your judgements doe be-
witch,
rie leave this counsell where no good can please :
Come follow me all those who would be rich :
Few have regard (poore souldiers) to your ease.
Perd. That shall prove best which first I went about,
Though some would wrest my words from what I
thought :
Loe, Alekagcrs spite doth now burst out,
Like flaming fires which burne themselves to nought.
Thus, naughty mindes which never dreame but ill,
Doe construe all things to a crooked sense :
What I propos'd, reposing on your will,
He would interpret for a great offence.
And (thus pufif'd up) this parting hence of his,
To many former faults hath added one :
By his seditious words incens'd ere this,
The souldiers are to sacke the treasure gone.
Aiit. With one consent then let us all conclude.
That Alexanders race (when borne) must raigne :
So shall we stablish still that sacred bloud,
Which rais'd our state, and may it best maintaine.
And let us now (before we part) appoint
Who shall command till that the babe be borne :
And circumspectly ponder every point,
That successe so our councell may adorne.
Eton. I heare a tumult rais'd amongst che tents.
And Arideus is proclaimed king :
1 1 2 Stirling's Poems.
To which the multitude (soone chang'd) consents,
As bent for all whose course a change may bring.
The foot-men are to indignation mov'd,
In this assembly that they want a seat,
Where our proceedings they might have approv'd,
As knowing all that did concerne the state.
They soone forget their prince (exspecting spoiles)
That dare revolt from what we all advis'd :
" Thus too much liberty breeds many broiles,
" And makes the giver still to be despis'd.
" The want of discipline all things confounds."
Their deeds want order, and their pride all bounds.
Perd. And dare they then against that fortresse rise,
Where Alexanders ensignes are displaidi
Or violate the walles where as he lyes'?
May not his shadow make them all afraid?
What 1 how comes this ? and dare they then presume,
To bragge their captaines, and abuse their armes?
Armes armes, just wrath these rebels must consume.
Our count' nance will them curbe, sound, sound th'
alarmes. [Exeunt.
ACT II. SCENE II,
LysimacJms, Seleucus.
Lys. Loe, here a great and more then sudden change !
All men for mirth were like to have gone mad.
So that of late it would have beene thought strange,
In all this citie to have seene one sad.
Each wall resounded some melodious song,
The Alexa7idr(zan Tragedy. 113
To ravish curious eares with rare dehght;
Strange tapestries were stretch'd the streets along,
And stately objects made to charme the sight;
As if our king his conquests so would crowne,
Of all the world a parliament to hold,
He (plac'd with pompe in this imperiall towne)
Did of magnificence the height unfold.
Here glory (in her richest robes array'd)
Should have shewne all that greatnesse could expect :
Yet were our hopes even at the height betraid :
To death those trophees fortune did erect.
A tragicke end this triumph quite confounds,
All our applauses vanish in complaints,
Our musicke marr'd by melancholy sounds,
Loe, by the cypresse press'd, the lawrell faints.
To funerall shrikes, our shouts of joy we turne,
(With gorgeous garments, griefe cannot comport),
We that so much rejoyc'd, farre more must mourne,
" Dayes spent with woe are long, with pleasure short.''
This breeds most anguish, when that one compares
The present time with others that are past,
Whil'st wonted hopes are ballanc'd with despaires.
Which all heroicke mindes with woe doe waste.
Betwixt these two, what difference finde we forth,
The rising sunne, and it that is declin'd?
Where is that zodiacke (lodging of all worth)
Whence valours beames (still lightning courage) shin'dl
Now desolation spreads it selfe o're all :
A solitary silence, griefe allowes,
Ah, (as quite crush' d by that great monarchs fall)
How many male-contents cast downe their browes?
VOL. II. I
114 Stirlmg^s Poems.
A strange suspition hath possess'd the streets,
Whil'st every man his neighbours fall conspires,
Each one who unawares another meets,
(As fearing treason) with distrust retires.
Of rumours strange each eare is greedy growne,
Which (though but doubtfull) move the minde to rue,
And (doting still on that which is their own) ^
What they conjecture, all afifirme for true.
Sel. With eyes that flame for rage, our deeds heaven
viewes,
And (mov'd for us) a high disdaine doth beare;
Loe, all mens heads are heavy for ill newes,
And though we know not what, yet still we feare :
For, since the widow'd world doth want a head,
Each member now doth labour to be chiefe.
Which (whilst they divers wayes the body lead)
May give beginning to some endlesse griefe;
Some (like the foole who thunder fayn'd like love)
Would make their fame like Alexanders sound,
And (all brought low) to be themselves above.
Would order all, or else would all confound;
Then some vaine wits which onely would seeme wise,
(By flatt'ring mirrours of their shape deceiv'd)
Doe every thing that is not theirs despise.
And perish would, ere them another sav'd.
A number too whom all things doe content,
What each one thinkes, are still resolv'd to doe :
They make a choice, then doe the choice repent.
And straight repent of that repentance too.
The publike good is spoil'd by private hope,
Whil'st many thus high dignities doe claime;
The A lexandrcean Tragedy. 115
This discord gives to rash ambition scope :
" For, all would fish within a troubled streame."
See how dissention hath dissolv'd so soone,
All kinde of order, and confusion brought :
Our councell quite this variance hath undone,
" Whil'st one would have done all, all have done
nought : "
Although Perdiccas (as it would have seem'd)
Whil'st for his masters race he onely stood,
Sought (by that meanes more vertuous to be deem'd)
His princes honour, and his countries good ;
Yet his companions having in contempt,
He did by subtile meanes himselfe advance:
And so to shadow his disguis'd attempt,
Aym'd at the royall place as but by chance;
He toyles that the unborne none should beguile,
As by the heavens for th' orphanes good reserv'd :
Yet wanting of a king nought but the stile,
He would not want that when th' occasion serv'd.
And Meleager partially dispos'd.
To hinder others, doth pretend a love
To bastard Philips by effect disclos'd,
Since he but seekes Perdiccas to disprove;
And if that foe, whom he doth feare, but faile,
He cares not much what emperour they proclaime :
And his designe with many may prevaile :
" A cloake of right, apparels any claime;
" They whose descent some title doth disclose
" (As by their birth made capable to raigne) :
" Must be preferr'd by reason unto those,
'* Who of all right without the bounds remaine."
ii6 Stirling'' s Poems.
<b
The furious foot-men (insolently stout)
A title to maintaine, did brave our band,
And (indignation thundring threatnings out)
Would with our bloud have bath'd this barbarous land.
O! what indignity would this have been,
Whil'st those whom he subdu'd with such great toiles,
Had in this sort their victors vanquish'd seen,
So of their spoilers purchasing the spoiles'?
Thus darkening all that we had done before,
(Our swords first stayn'd by ignominious wounds)
We, of our conquests could have kept no more.
But burials base (if those) in th' enemies bounds.
O ! what excellency consists in th' one,
(Though oft not mark'd till miss'd) cleare at this
houre :
" Some with a word, or look, doe more alone,
" Then thousands joyn'd with policy and pow'r."
When squadrons arm'd with ensignes full displaid,
As of their prince all due regard quite lost,
His generous course would (obstinate) have staid,
By them abandon' d, when endanger'd most;
Then of disorder yeelding bitter fruits,
They boldly march'd with bragges before his tent,
And charg'd their soveraigne with unlawfull suits,
To innovations violently bent;
Of duty then, they by no band detain'd.
First grudg'd, grew factious next, last rebels plaine.
Like waters for a time (by art restrain'd)
Their bounds once pass'd, which do all bounds dis-
daine :
But from that patterne of accomplish'd worth,
The Alexandrcean Tragedy. 1 1 7
Whom imitate none may, all must admire,
Through just disdaine when fury sparkl'd forth,
These troupes (astonish'd) trembling did retire;
His stately count'nance calm'd tumultuous sounds,
And lightened majesty through clouds of wrath,
That (even as if his words had given them wounds)
They fell, afraid of him, though not of death :
Those lofty bands which were of late so proud,
That they disdain'd to wait their emperours will :
Then (by his looke all at an instant bow'd)
Did beg but leave that they might serve him still;
And yet what wonder though he gain'd all hearts,
Which to his presence happened to repaire,
With that perfection of all vertuous parts,
As large in him, as in all others rarel
Loe, when we meet to treat, by peace or warres,
How all our conquests may be best secur'd.
The souldiers doe burst out in publike jarres,
Even by their captaines no respect procur'd.
And who can call that valorous prince to minde,
That unto vertue any reverence beares,
But he must be constrain'd, or prove unkinde,
To offer up a tribute of some teares?
Lys. His death doth make my soule faint sorrows
prey.
Though many thought that I for it had long d ;
For, if by any whom he should obey,
One can be wrong'd, then I indeed was wrong'd.
Sel. Though fame abroad by divers tongues did
bring,
To what huge danger you were once expos'd;
1 1 8 Sthiin^^s Poems.
i}
It did not paint out each particular thing,
Which by your selfe I long to heare disclos'd.
Lys. When wise Calistenes for no request,
With superstitious customes could comport,
But with franke words all flattery did detest,
He was abus'd, and in a barbarous sort :
" So plaguing him (no doubt) the king did ill,
" Yet to prosperity we must impute
" Those fatall faults which follow fortune still,
" As of great mindes a kinde of bastard fruit ;
" We should in kings, as loth their state to touch,
" Speake sparingly of vice, praise vertue much."
But I whose soule that wise man dearely lov'd,
Whilst his perfections spying thus injur'd,
(To tender passions by compassion mov'd)
Would his reliefe have willingly procur'd.
But when my credit fail'd, all hope quite past,
That I could purchase grace in any sort :
I desp'rate physicke did afford at last, ^
That if his life was ill, it might be short.
The king enrag'd, that I had thus presum'd
To limit his revenge by giving death,
That by a lyon I should be consum'd.
Did throw my doome out of the depths of wrath ;
But when with rowling eyes the lyon roar'd.
He, by my strength (as strengthlesse) was or'ethrown.
Which to the king whose minde did then remord.
My constancy and courage both made knowne.
So that incontinent I was set free.
By this rare proofe esteem'd amongst the strong.
And with a minde from inward rancour free,
The Alexandraan Tragedy. 119
As he his wrath, so I forgot the wrong :
For, whilst alone he through a forrest rang'd;
A prey expos'd, yet did no danger dreame,
Some at that time had former wrongs reveng'd,
If but for mischiefe bent to gaine a name ;
Yet that which others did attempt in vaine,
And (tyr'd by travell) of a surfet dy'd,
I did performe, and brought him backe againe,
As swiftly running as his horse could ride;
And of that deed my sprite rests well appaid :
For, since that time my soveraigne held me deare,
Which afterwards he to the world bewraid,
Whilst by this meanes his favour did appeare.
When unawares my brow he chanc'd to wound,
To stay my bloud which striv'd to dye his launce.
He with his diadem my temples crown'd,
A happy signe though comming but by chance;
And O ! who knowes but once before I dye,
Some good event may second the presage 1
Sel. What hinders us but we should fortune try,
And for a crowne our travels straight engage %
Those bended mindes which ayme at greatnesse still,
" (Growne popular, of purpose to be prais'd :)
" Doe winde themselves in every mans good will,"
And would seeme humble, that they may be rais'd.
" What counterfeited friends seale truthlesse bands,
" Whilst in the generall cause that wit pretends,
'•' Though never joyning hearts, all joyne their hands,
" And worke one way, yet worke for divers ends'?"
Yea, those whose mindes move in the sphere of state,
Have purchas'd pow'rs, as purpos'd for the fields.
1 20 Stirlhis:'' s Poems,
A
With jealous mindes their rivals to abate,
Whilst (equals all) none to another yeelds;
Yet with suspended thoughts they doubtfull stand,
And their designes to venture doe forbeare,
Least all the rest joyn'd by a generall band,
Doe him o' rethrow, who first gives cause of feare;
But he may speed who for a crowne doth thirst,
And (free from feare) with courage doth advance:
Some to be second, doubting to be first,
Will make their course depend upon his chance ;
And by a battell if that one prevaile,
There will rich hopes at easie rates be sold,
Whil'st those seek help, whose fortune then doth
faile.
As first by hope, last by despaire made bold ;
All this to me great cause of feare affords,
Lest that we two protract the time too long;
And wounded be before we draw our swords :
'* All at such times must do, or suffer wrong."
Ljs. No chance of late hath brought me so to bow.
But I have throwne some thoughts at those high
hopes :
" Yet in my minde that man do most allow
" Who doth with judgement moderate fancies scopes :"
Those provinces which are to us assign'd,
As calme in minde, we manage must a space :
Till all attempt that which they have design' d.
By enterchanging damage and disgrace :
Then living but like those whose force is small,
From which the world no great thing can expect :
We shall professe a favour to them all,
The Alexandrcpan Tragedy. 121
As who nought else, save publicke peace aftect;
Yet then, our thoughts shall not have leave to sleep .
But subtle plots must circumspectly frame,
Those whom we feare at variance still to keep,
So alwayes strengthning us, and weakening them ;
If wrongs provoke, or when occasion claimes,
We may make warre with some ere it be long,
Like cunning wrestlers at th' Olympick games,
Who exercise themselves to be more strong :
And when themselves have thus prepar'd the way,
Whil'st that their pompe doth beare a lower sayle.
(For at the last their force must much decay.
Since all must always lose, though one prevaile)
Then prompt to tempt that which we now contrive,
(By ruining the remnant that remaines)
We may possesse the state for which they strive;
Thus they the toils, and we shall get the gaines.
\Exeunt.
Chorus.
O happy was that guiltlesse age,
When as Astrcea liv'd below:
And that Bellona's barbarous rage
Did not all order quite o'rethrow.
Then whil'st all did themselves content
With that thing which they did possesse,
And gloried in a little rent,
As wanting meanes to make excesse;
Those could no kinde of want bemone,
For, craving nought, they had all things :
12 2 Stirling's Poems.
"a
And since none sought the regall throne,
Whil'st none were subjects, all were kings:
" O ! to true blisse their course was set,
" Who got to live, not liv'd to get."
Then innocency naked liv'd,
And had no need, nor thought of armes,
Whil'st spightfull sprits no meanes contriv'd.
To plague the simple sort with harmes;
Then snaring laws did not extend
The bounds of reason as they do,
Strife oft begun where it should end,
One doubt but clear'd to foster two :
By conscience then all order stood,
By which darke things were soone discern'd,
Whil'st all behov'd there to be good.
Where as no evill was to be learn'd :
And how could any then prove nought,
Whil'st by example vertue taught?
Then mortals mindes all strong and pure,
Free from corruption lasted long,
(By innocency kept secure)
When none did know how to do wrong;
Then sting'd with no suspitious thought,
Men mischiefe did from none expect:
For, what in them could not be wrought,
In others they would not suspect;
And though none did sterne laws impart,
That might to vertue men compell.
Each one by habite in his heart,
The Alexandrian Tragedy. 123
Had grav'd a law of doing well :
And all did wickednesse forbeare
Of their free-will, and not for feare.
The first who spoyl'd the publike rest,
And did disturbe this quiet state,
Was avarice, the greatest pest
Which doth of darknesse fill the seat :
A monster very hard to daunt,
Leane, as dry'd up with inward care,
(Though full of wealth) for feare of want,
Still at the borders of dispaire;
Scarce taking food for Natures ease.
Nor for the cold sufficient clothing,
She whom her owne could never please.
Thinks all have much, and she hath nothing :
This daughter of sterne Pluto, still
Her fathers dungeon strives to fill.
'fa^
That monster-tamer most renown'd,
The great Alcides, Thebes glory.
Who (for twelve severall labours crown'd)
Was famous made by many a story,
As one who all his time had toyl'd
To purge the world of such like pests.
Who robbers rob'd, and spoylers spoyld,
Still humbling haughty tyrants crests,
He by this monster once o'rethrowne.
Did passe in Spaine o're lands and flouds,
And there took more then was his owne,
What right had he to Gerions goods'?
124 Stirling' s Poems.
Thus avarice the world deceives,
And makes the greatest conquerours slaves.
Ah ! when to plague the world with griefe,
This poore-rich monster once was borne:
Then weaknesse could finde no reliefe,
And subtiltie did conscience scorne :
Yet some who labour'd to recall
That blisse which guilded the first age,
Did punishment prepare for all,
Who did their thoughts to vice engage;
And yet the more they laws did bring,
That to be good might men constraine,
The more they sought to do the thing
From which the laws did them restraine :
So that by custome altred quite,
The world in ill doth most delight. \Exeunt.
ACT III. SCENE I.
Perdiccas, Eiimenes.
Per. Now fortune smyles upon my rising state,
And seemes to promise more then I require;
Loe, by degrees my glory doth grow great,
And by their death who did my death conspire.
Proud Meleagcr who disdain'd to bow.
And my advancement alwayes did mislike.
Hath with his bloud seal'd my assurance now,
To fright all those who would attempt the like.
Eiwi. Yet of his fall the forme my minde appalls.
The Akxandnvan Tragedy. 125
Even at loves altar, and without regard ;
AVe were too rash to violate those walls
Which the most impious could not but have spar'd.
Lascivious Ajax by Minervds spight,
Earst for prophaning such a sacred place,
On the Capharian rocks did lose the light,
And all his navie too for ones disgrace.
" We should not irritate celestiall powr's ;
" And, all beginnings are consider'd most:"
Such horrour breeds this odious act of ours,
That we (I feare) opinions pow'r have lost.
Per. Let others seek to keep such points as those,
1 am not scrupulous, for, I protest,
Ov'r all, and by all meanes I'le kill my foes,
And then thereafter argue of the rest.
" They wrong the gods who think their church should
be
" A refuse free for malefactors still :
^' For, with their justice this cannot agree :
" W^ho guard ill doers, guilty are of ill.
Was he not stain'd with many a monstrous crime,
And Salamaiider-\\kt amidst the fire
(Contentiously dispos'd) did spend his time,
And (never pleas'd) did still some change require?
Eutn. " One hum'rous head that doth in brawls
delight,
" May poyson thousands with the gall of spight."
Per. As still seditiously affecting strife.
He but abus'd the credit of his king :
And sent some of his slaves to take my life,
Such bitter envy did his stomack sting.
126 Siir/ing^s Poems.
Eum. I saw, how that advanc'd before our band,
You first did check, then chase them in the end :
And did with courage resolutely stand,
Our soveraignes corps (though dead) bent to defend.
Per. " He but a dastard is who basely yeelds,
" And in no conflict hath his fortune n-y'd,"
We (if in time not ventring to the fields)
Like beasts (all sacrific'd) had poorely dy'd :
But when without we masters did remaine,
(Lest Babylon had straight beene barr'd from food):
I those proud squadrons quickly did constraine
Even as we pleas' d, a treaty to conclude.
Grac'd whil'st my foe (as in some kinde compar'd)
A chiefe in charge, he many mindes did sway.
But (found inferiour) when a friend declar'd,
My credit did increase, and his decay.
Eum. Yet in this course all (who observe) do see,
That of the multitude the minde prevail'd:
He whom they did elect our prince must be,
And our designe hath altogether fail'd :
But how comes this? that every captaine gets
A certaine realme committed to his charge,
And with an army bravely forward sets.
Their bounds allow'd to guard, or to enlarge?
Per. I by my means have every great man crown'd,
That from my greatnesse great things might proceed :
Yet by that meanes to make my pow'r renown'd,
The doing lik't me better then the deed;
I this division chiefly did procure
To have those great-men from the court remov'd.
Where they might be imploy'd, yet I secure.
The Alexandrczan Tragedy. 127
Their favour purchas'd, or at least thus prov'd :
For, him who hath them to such honour brought,
They must be bound to hold in high account,
And their advancement for this end I sought,
That by their meanes I with more ease might mount.
Emu. O ! but your fancies may be much deceiv'd,
" There is no bond can binde unthankful! mindes:"
I feare the favour that they thus receiv'd,
Hath showne them wayes to sayle by other windes.
So long, of late, as they had need of you.
To seemeyour friends they (courting kindnesse) sought :
But since their greatnesse is well grounded now,
They will disdaine what derogates in ought.
" To those all great men friends most frankly prove,
*' Whom (for their pleasure) freely they affect,
" And (loathing bands) cannot be forc'd to love,
" As brav'd by worth, when merits urge respect.
" Few mark from whence they rose, when once aloft,
" None can endure that they should owe their state :
" Desarts grow odious when upbraided oft,
" And are deprav'd, not guerdon' d, when too great.
" Yea, in my judgement you have greatly err'd,
" Them to exalt, whose state you would surprise :
" Their common custome is who are preferr'd,
" That they may stand, not to let others rise."
Per. " To ruine loftie mindes when least afraid,
" Whil'st carelesse carriage jealous censures sift,
'* By spyes abroad to foes at court betray'd,
" Then by preferrement what more subtle drift?"
Their hearts with hate are parted all by pride ;
One is already to confusion gone :
128 Stirling'' s Poems.
i>
I long to learne how Leonatus dy'd,
Not that I minde his funerals to bemone.
Eum. That prince magnanimous whom all admire,
(As was his custome) clemently proclaim'd,
That banish'd Grecians might to Greece reture,
Save onely such whom murder had defam'd;
But who them banish'd, griev'd for their returne,
Did feare what just revenge might have design'd.
As knowing well (whil'st wrongs make wrath to burne)
" How misery doth irritate a minde;"
The indignation which they had conceiv'd,
Did breed rebellion bursting out with rage,
The which our king (deep in his minde ingrav'd)
By Athens spoyles did purpose to asswage :
But since that death afforded them releefe,
Growne bold to prosecute their proud attempt,
Th' Athenians., and th' u-Etoiians were the chiefe
Who brought Antipater first in contempt ;
And by their pow'r constrain'd to quite the field,
He (in a little towne enclos'd) at last,
Was once reduc'd in danger neere to yeeld,
And staine the glory of his actions past ;
But yet by accident as oft it falls,
" (It better is to happy be, then wise)"
An unsuspected shaft throwne from the walls,
Their foes chiefe captaine happened to surprise ;
Then did Antipater his courage reare.
Which had almost his stagg'ring hopes betray'd:
Yet still in doubt, and not quite free from feare,
He Leonatus did in treat for aide;
And he who seem'd his friendship to affect,
The AlexandrcEan Tragedy. 129
To further him desirous did appeare;
But (if he had prevail'd) some do suspect,
Antipater had bought his succours deare.
Yet by the end his purpose bent to show
(How ever in effect) he seem'd a friend ;
But when th' Athenians did his coming know,
They him to fight did all directly tend.
And though their thoughts in depths of doubts did
fleete,
They when alone, to match him thought it best,
And whil'st they march'd th' adventrous troups to
meet,
Did hardly welcome the unwelcome guest :
When both th' armies were to battell brought.
And shew with what bright flames their breasts were
stor'd.
Brave Leonatus like a lyon fought,
So to prove worthy of his wonted lord :
But whil'st he bravely did his charge acquite.
Yet lost himselfe, who others came to save,
And by their captains fall discourag'd quite,
His scatter'd troups great damage did receive;
When old Antipater was surely told
Of their mishap, who came for his reliefe,
He not one signe of sorrow did unfold :
" A little gaine doth mitigate much griefe:"
Well did he know that though his foes prevail'd,
Yet this great fight enfeebled had their host,
And then he took to him (which much avail'd)
Those beaten bands who had their captaine lost;
Yet that in which he did most comfort finde,
VOL. II. K
130 Stirling's Poems.
Was his delivery from a secret foe,
Who did with jealousie torment his minde,
Though outwardly not seeming to be so.
Per. Thus, we who earst below one ensigne warr'd,
Slept in one tent, and all one fortune prov'd,
And (with a friendship then, that never jarr'd)
Like Pylades, and mad Orestes lov'd,
Since that we want a lord, and all are lords,
We (loe) renounce all kinde of kindnesse now,
And (secret rancour budding in discords)
Do others harmes procure, at least allow.
" Such is the sacred famine of a crowne,
" That it to satisfie, before we faile,
" What in our way doth stand, all must go down,
" And bands of bloud, or friendship not availe :
" These glory-ravish'd souls that would be great,
" No meanes omit, although they be unjust,
" None beares with patience partners in the state;
" What jealous lover can his rivals trust ■? "
Puin. Well, I perceive Antipater doth tend
With all his pow'r to gaine that sacred prey,
Whose meanes (of late enlarg'd) to reach his end :
Through every danger may enforce a way;
And Alexander sometimes spake at large.
Then whil'st Antipater with Agis striv'd.
That he (without the limits of his charge)
More like a king, then a lieutenant liv'd.
Antigomts, and Ptolomie in armes
Are joyn'd in one, our ruine bent to breed;
J teare that fnendship procreate our harmes,
Unlesse their spight prevented be with speed.
The Alexandrcean Tragedy. 131
Per. rie lodge you now {Eumenes) in my brest,
And let you see the ground of my intent :
Since that we both aUke must toyle, or rest,
As those whose courses must have one event.
Since at his death, I by our dying lord,
Was in his place appointed to succeed,
And that my fortune doth a meanes afford ;
How I may compasse that which he decreed.
To leave that place I cannot well agree,
As if I wanted courage to command,
rie take that which the fates do force on me :
For, if without a throne, I cannot stand.
" And those who would performe difficult things,
" Must not regard what way, so they prevaile :
" Oft fraud, then force, a greater furtherance brings,
" The foxe must help, if that the lyon faile."
So old Aiitipater to have betray'd,
His daughter I in marriage did require.
That so the time might but have beene delay' d,
Till that I had accomplish'd my desire :
For, with the shadow of pretended love.
And hop'd affinity which seem'd design'd,
I from his bounds some bands aym'd to remove,
By raising me that he might have declin'd ;
" But who can snare a minde all ey'd with fears?"
He quickly did mistrust the purpos'd wrong,
And from my messengers straight barr d his eares,
As did Vlysses from the Syrens song.
Eum. Yet this (if rightly weigh'd) might much
import.
If that you match your selfe with such a mate,
132 Stirling's Poems.
Whose beauty, pleasure, birth, might bring support,
And both concurre in one to blesse your state,
If you to make your high attempts more sure,
By HyjHciis meanes with some your selfe alHe,
Thus of some prince you may the pow'r procure,
On whom for help you boldly may relye.
What griefe were this if you have hap to gaine,
That faire Idea which your fancies frame,
If after you, none of your owne remayne
To keep your conquests, and revive your name?
" Kings live most safe who of their owne have heires,
" Whose sacred persons none dare seek to wound :
" Since, though they dye, yet there rest some of theirs,
" Who are to venge their death, by nature bound."
Per. All shall be try'd which may enlarge my might;
I minde to match my selfe with such a one,
Who (if she have my pow'r to prove her right)
May be thought worthy of her fathers throne.
I with Olympias have devis'd a thing,
Which may secure her state, and make mine strong,
And (if accomplish' d) prove a prosp'rous spring,
From whence may flow great acts ere it be long :
By Cleopatra may a meanes be catch'd,
Which to a glorious end our course may bring.
She whom at first her father Philip match' d
With Alexander of Epirus king,
Who having heard great Alexanders fame,
(In emulation of that monarchs praise)
Went with his troups th' Etrurians bent to tame.
Which enterprise did but abridge his dayes :
In marriage with that widow'd queene combinde,
The Alexaiidr(Ean Tragedy. 133
(If that her mother thus her course assist)
Whil'st I performe that which I have in minde,
Who dare presume my purpose to resist?
For, whil'st this friendship dotli my name renowne,
It may my thoughts from further feare seclude :
Since having thus a title to the crowne,
As one engrafted in the royall bloud.
Euin. I feare that this your purpose to prevent,
A number now take armes all in one forme,
As those whose feares conjecture your intent,
And by the lowring clouds fore-know a storme.
Already many do together runne,
Who for our ruine wonderfully thirst.
Per. Where do you think that we should then begin,
And exercise hostility at first?
Ewn. Though we our selves in strangers thrones
enstall,
And (having Asia to subjection brought)
Make Nilus, Indus, and Euphrates thrall,
Yet all those victories would serve for nought,
Whil'st Maccdonie doth continue free,
(A fertile field to bring brave armies forth)
Which (till first forc'd) can now not subject be.
And ere they love a king, must prove his worth,
" Then unto those who seek a prince in armes,
" His chiefest realme the greatest vantage gives,
" Where warres (held out) are alwayes with his harmes,
" Since that his foe still at his charges lives;
" And warres protracted with a peoples losse,
" Do from their soveraigne alienate their love;
" They lose their hearts, whom fortune once doth crosse.
134 Stirling's Foe?ns.
" And foil'd at home, can no where else remove : "
Who Maccdonic hath, hath still the best,
Which of our state the stately mistrisse is :
As which with courage conquer'd all the rest,
And but depends on Mars, as onely his :
If you were lord of that undaunted soyle,
And by Olympias countenanc'd but a time,
Straight from Antipatcr all would recoyle,
And, bent t' undo him, we would finde a crime;
To you who are a Macedonian borne,
(If match'd with Cleopatra, great in pow'rs)
The Macedotiians gladly would be sworne.
And (if commanding them) then all were yours.
Per. Yet this opinion partly I disprove,
Which would not (as you thinke) our troubles end :
For, if we do from hence our force remove,
And to th' ^niathian bounds directly tend,
There must at first a doubtful! warre be prov'd.
With those brave bands whose valour is well known :
Of whom Craterus dearly is belov'd;
Antipater is borne, and bred their owne.
And though indeed (as kindly to those parts)
My friendship may affected be by some,
Yet those who start in time by many arts.
May under-myne their mindes before we come.
Then whil'st we trouble Alacedonie most,
And leave those realmes unarm'd which now are ours,
Straight Ptolojnie when strengthned is his host.
May (like a tempest) swallow Asia's pow'rs.
I, for the time most willingly would take
The course which seemes to make our state most sure :
The Akxa?idr(Ean Tragedy. 135
" A foe is dangerous, when behinde ones backe,
" (Who whil'st not look'd for) may our harme procure."
My purpose is, though yet to none made knowne,
That Egypt first shall burden'd be with warre :
For, if that Ptolomie were once o'rethrowne,
Then that from Greece all hope of help would barre.
Eum. Hold still with you those of the sacred bloud,
Whom to protect you alvvayes must pretend :
" The count'nance of the great, may do much good,
" Whom still (though weake) all glory to attend."
\_Exeunt.
ACT III. SCENE II.
OlympiaSy Roxane.
Olyinp. Let sorrow prove a tyrant to my soule.
Whose rage with reason now no measure keeps;
What of my teares the torrent can controull,
Since flowing from afflictions deepest deeps?
How can my breast but burst whil'st sobs rebound,
Since once the seat of joyes now not the same?
May not huge horrours presse me to the ground.
In thinking what I was, and what I am?
I was a great mans wife, a greaters mother,
Even she to whom the heavens their best did give;
Yet I, even I, more plagu'd then any other.
In dungeons now of desolation live.
My Sonne who was the glory of his time,
Staine of times past, and light of times to come,
(O fraile mortality! O slippery slyme!)
136 Stirling' s Poems.
Though having all o'recom'd, death did o'recome.
And I (dejected wretch) whose dying eyes
(By natures custome bound) he should have clos'd,
Was not to shut his starres with th' yvory skies,
Which curtain'd once where majesty repos'd :
But ah ! his falling in a forraine part
Hath (if ought can enlarge) enlarg'd my griefe,
Or else on him I melted had my heart,
And spent my selfe to purchase his reliefe.
Yet though I was not present at his death,
He shall not be defrauded of my teares :
But for his funerall fires my flaming breath
Shall smoak, and to his ghost a tribute beares.
Rox. Ah ! to what corner rolls my watrie sight,
Where it not findes some matter to bemone?
0 foolish eyes ! why lose ye not your light.
Since your delight is lost, your object gone?
Once of all queenes I might the fortune scorne,
To whom just love that great man did engage,
Whose match in worth the world hath never borne,
Nor never shall enrich another age.
When those perfections do transport my minde.
Which admiration doth disclose too late ;
1 curse the fates that did his judgement binde.
To make me partner of so high a state.
And I repent that to his sight I past
(Though highly grac'd) once on a festuall day,
A feast which many a time must make me fast.
And with slow woe that flying mirth defray;
Then if my fortune had not blinded me,
But ah! whose judgement had it not bereav'd?
The Alexandrcean Tragedy. 137
Whir St that great monarch daign'd to Uke of me,
Of my high liight I had the fall conceiv'd.
Of Asids prince whose state did then decline,
He both the wife, and daughters had at will,
Whose beauties lustre might have darkned mine,
Yet free from snares restrain'd his fancies still.
And when my father chose out from the rest
Those virgins all whom fame affirm'd for rare;
Though having view'd them all, he lov'd me best.
Then thought most fortunate, if not most faire;
And when this match his nobles all dismai'd,
That he himselfe with captives had alli'd :
That act, he then (as love had dited) said
Took from the vanquish'd shame, from victors pride ;
Yet me (as empresse) all did entertaine.
Though his inferiour farre in all respects,
Till I from him by death divorc'd remaine,
Whom with his sonne now all the world neglects.
Olynip. Although this will but aggravate my woe,
From whom the fates all comfort now seclude.
Yet I do tender his remembrance so,
That of my sonne to heare, it doth me good ;
And (daughter) now to double my distresse,
Make me at length acquainted with his death,
That sorrow may each part of me possesse,
Sad newes mine eares, teares eyes, and sighs my
breath.
Rox. Though griefe to me scarce liberty affords.
To presse forth passions which oppresse my minde,
Yet would affection wrestle out some words
To speake of him who all my thoughts confin'd ;
138 Stirling' s Poems.
When he had conquer'd all that could resist
(A monarchie not equall with his minde)
Still in his haughty course he did insist,
And search'd the ocean other worlds to finde :
But when from it his navy was redeem'd,
He stood in doubt where trophees next to reare :
The world (though large) for ,him too little seem'd :
His minde could more conceive, then nature beare.
Last (ah !) this emp'rour purpos'd was in th' end.
At Babylon his glories hight to show,
Where all the world his coming did attend;
As love above, who onely raign'd below.
When he drew neare that then thrise monarchs seat,
The astrologians by their skill fore-told,
What danger huge was threatned to his state,
The which else-where might better be contrould :
But he who was not capable of feare,
And could not muse of misadventures then,
Would triumph there, and the worlds scepter beare,
Back'd with moe kings then other kings with men.
There (as a god) transporting mortals sights,
(Which mirth with mourning I must still record)
He spent, or lost a time, in all delights,
Which fortune could (when flatt'ring most) afford,
Till Thessaliis, for mischiefe but reserv'd.
Once to his house invited him to dine,
Where false Cassander at the table serv'd,
And as he us'd with water mixt his wine.
Olynip. Alas, alas ! and so it prov'd in th' end,
" But who could feare a benefited friend?"
Rox. There were all creatures valued for their worth,
The Alexandrccan Tragedy. 139
As wholsome, dainty, sumptuous, stately, rare,
Which (forc'd by Pheebiis) th' easterne reahiies bring
forth,*
To Hve by sea, by land, or in the ayre.
Then when that reason drunk with pleasure slept,
Which all the senses with abundance stor'd.
And whil'st (save musicke) nothing measure kept,
With Ceres, Bacchus onely was ador'd.
Even when the king beginning was to drinke,
(As strangely mov'd) he thund'red forth a grone :
And from the table suddenly did shrinke,
His wonted vigour at an instant gone ;
Whil'st he was softly to a chamber led.
That death a title to his body claim'd.
The sorrowing souldiers swarm'd about his bed.
With looks once fierce, then for compassion fram'd :
But he whom victory had still array'd,
With others past this battell bent to even.
Did look like one whom all the world obey'd,
And boasted shortly then to take the heaven :
Whil'st (lightning comfort to afflicted bands)
He stretch' d them forth to kisse in severall parts,
By sword then scepter his more honour'd hands,
On which, it seem'd, they melted all their hearts.
Last, unto them those gen'rous words he told :
Yet to my life my death doth bring no blot :
Thus, to dye yong in yeares, in glory old,
Of all our family is still the lot;
And since no worlds are resting to o'recome,
■* "In Persia, Arabia, or the Ind's brought forth
That walk, that swim, that flie, that grow, were there. " — 1604.
1 40 Stirling's Poems.
Life serves for nought; I did an empire found:
Liv'd, warr'd, and raign'd (all done) for which I come:
Then goe great ghost (not griev'd) below the ground.
No further weighing what belong'd to life,
He with a count'nance constant even in death,
(As too victorious in that fatall strife)
The ayre perfuming, spent th' imperious breath.
But through the campe when that it once was knowne,
That from the world that world of worth was gone.
What anguish was, it cannot well be showne,
I had my part, yet had not all alone.
O ! let that day which makes my dayes all night,
Be registred amongst the dismall dayes.
Whose melancholy, and portentuous light
With some disaster still the world dismayes.
And Babyloji, curst be thy fatall towres,
Once seate of monarchs, mistresse of the earth,
But from hence-forth (a slave to forraine pow'rs)
Still burden'd be thy bounds with bloud and dearth.
Olymp. You need not use those execrations more.
Though Babylon of breath that prince depriv'd,
Yet (as an oracle had told before)
In Alacedonie was his death contriv'd;
Aiitipater had heard, how divers times
The king against him had been mov'd to wrath.
And damn'd (as guilty of opprobrious crimes)
His Sonne in law Liiiccstes unto death.
Then he was told, the king did strictly try
How his lievtenants had their places us'd,
Still making all as traitours straight to dye,
Who had the same in any sort abus'd;
The Alexandraan Tragedy . 141
Thus, he who well did know his owne misdeeds,
Had learn'd by others what he might expect,
As whose ambitious brest in pride exceeds,
And alwayes did a soveraignty affect :
But when Crater us was to have his place,
And he requir'd the army to attend,
He thought that thus time would some means embrace,
To plague his pride with a deserved end ;
Then to prevent that which I thinke was still
More fear'd by him, then purpos'd by the king.
With guilty thoughts oft exercis'd in ill.
He sought what might to death his soveraigne bring;
And this the traitour compass'd at the last,
As I (alas!) have learn'd (although too late)
When to my sonne, his sonne Cassa/ider past
As to congratulate his prosp'rous state;
Then in his company he did retaine
A poyson powerfull where it was employ' d,
Whose violence no metall could restraine.
But in a horses hoofe was still conveigh'd ;
He and his brother fit occasion watch'd.
And for their prince a cup of poyson made ;
Thus he who never could by force be match'd,
By treason, loe (O cruell fate!) lyes dead.
Rox. And could, or durst those traitors be so bold,
The pillar of all worth to undermine?
But (madame) ah, Antipater of old.
Against your greatnesse alwaies did repine.
And (I remember) on a time he sent
A messenger of rainde to make you bow.
Who to your sonne a letter did present
142 Stirling's Poems.
Full of invectives to discredit you ;
The king whilst reading what it did comprise,
Did smile with scorne, then to Hephestion say :
In writing of such things he is not wise,
Which straight one mothers teare will wipe away.
Olymp. I oft inform 'd my sonne (strange waies
devis'd)
How that disloyall man striv'd to be great:
But as a womans wit, mine was despis'd,
And construed still unto the sense of hate.
Yet of my sonne (I thought) the deeds were such,
That all men them admir'd, none envy could;
And that none durst his sacred person touch,
Whom men ador'd, and love as his did hold.
How oft have I those bitter throwes allow'd,
By which I brought that demi-god to light '?
And well I might of such a birth be proud,
Which made me glorious in the peoples sight;
Though divers too (as I have some time knowne)
To draw his love from me did wayes prepare.
Yet were their slights by dutious love o'rethrowne,
And I respected with a reverend care.
His tender love to me was much extold,
Then when he sought to stablish a decree,
That with immortals I might be enrold,
And (as a goddesse) honours have to me.
Ah ! how can I this tragicke time survive,
Who lost a sonne so great, a sonne so kinde"?
And all the meanes which make me now to live,
Is with revenge a hope to ease my minde.
Rox. His love to you it could not but abound.
The Alexandman Tragedy. 143
(By nature, parents of their owne are lov'd)
Since those to whom he by no band was bound,
Of his humanity the fruits have prov'd.
His clemency did make his state more sure.
Then all the terrours rising from his name,
Which whilst he liv'd, did publike love procure,
And after death a never dying fame.
Old Sisigambis lifting up her heart,
(Of her owne sonnes the death who had surviv'd)
To Alexander did that love impart,
Which was to Darius due while as he liv'd ;
But when these tidings wounded had her eares,
That heaven from th' earth had rob'd that praise of
men:
(Whilst all dissolv'd in flouds of bitter teares)
She hated life, as never spoil'd till then.
Her widow'd nephew groning at her feet,
Who of Hephestion did the death bewaile.
In depths of woe she (drown'd with teares) did fleet,
Till that o'rewhelm'd, her strength began to faile ;
Then barr'd from food, she groveling did abide,
Till that hfes course (then hastened fast) was runne :
Thus she surviv'd her sonne, yet with him dy'd,
In whom she found the kindnesse of a sonne.
Olymp. If but when hearing this his tragicke end,
A stranger (once his captive) dy'd for griefe.
Ah, shall his mother yet on hope depend.
As such a losse might looke for some reliefe %
And yet I will, for 'twere a great disgrace
To me the mother of that matchlesse man, '
(Like other women) to give fortune place,
144 Stirlmg's Poems.
And faintly yeeld as vulgar wretches can.
Though griefe at first must moUifie me once,
Or (as unnaturall) I might be admir'd
Yet will I not still burst my brest with grones ;
Then that, of me more courage is requir'd,
I'le not degener from my generous kinde,
" (Faint-hearted hindes brought never lyon forth)
" Nor yet a mother of an abject minde,
" Had never borne a monarch of such worth."
And O ! who knowes, but once the time may come.
That I to venge my selfe a meanes may have?
Whilst those vile traitors ruin'd are by some,
Who with their bloud may bath their soveraigns grave.
Now on Pcrdiccas I repose my trust.
Who with Eitmenes would our wrongs redresse ;
Their valour (ventring in a cause so just)
By all appearance, promise doth no lesse.
Rox. Loe, now of late delivered of a sonne,
I to those captaines scarce dare make it knowne,
His kingdomes all to part who have begunne,
And might (by killing him) make them their owne.
Ah! (madame) this doth move me most to pause,
Who of those great men the ambition feare,
Lest by pretending but a publike cause.
They seeke themselves the diadem to beare.
Thus, they of my yong babe (fraud masking wrath)
Would but be tutors first, and traitors then,
Farre from obedience, duty, love or faith :
" No things more deare then diadems to men."
Olymp. As those whose courage cannot be dismaid,
Let us now strive what way a force to finde ;
The A iexatidraan Tragedy. 145
And whilst that pitty doth procure for ayde,
The peoples passions tune unto our niinde.
If that their love not vanish'd with his life,
Oi Alexander (in a high degree)
I thinke the sonne, the mother, and the wife.
By Macedonians still must reverenc'd be.
And this doth with disdaine my soule consume,
That Aridcus amongst other wrongs.
And proud Euridice his wife presume
To take the honour which to us belongs.
O! they shall finde my fortune not so chang'd.
But I am able yet to curbe their pride :
Whaf? what] Olympias must be reveng'd,
And (save her selfe) no queene she can abide.
\F.xeHnt.
Chorus.
Loe, how all good decayes.
And ills doe now abound ;
" In this sky-compass' d round,
" There is no kinde of trust :
" For, man-kinde whilst it strayes
" In pleasure-paved wayes,
"With flouds of vice is drown'd;"
And doth (farre from refuge)
In endlesse shadowes lodge,
Yet strives to rise no more :
" No doubt (as most unjust)
" The world once perish must."
And worse now to restore,
VOL. II. L
146 St irli fig's Poems.
Then it was of before,
When at the last deluge,
Men by Deucalion once
Were made againe of stones;
And well this wicked race
Bevvrayes a stony kinde,
Which beares a stubborne minde,
Still hardned unto sinne.
Loe, now in every place
All vertuous motions cease,
And sacred faith we finde,
Farre from the earth is fled,
Whose flight huge mischiefe bred,
And filles the world with warres,
Whilst impious brests begin
To let base treason in :
Which common concord marres,
Whilst all men live at jarres,
And nets of fraud doe spreade,
The simple to surprise,
Too witty, but not wise;
Yet those who in deceit
Their confidence repose,
A thing more deare doe lose
Then can by guile be gain'd ;
Which when repented late,
May ruine once their state,
Whilst purer sprites disclose
With what their breasts are stor'd;
For, though they would remord.
They get not trust againe;
The AlexandrcBaii Tragedy. 147
But, having honour stain'd,
And covenants prophan'd,
Are held in high disdaine,
" And doe in end remaine,
" Of all the world abhorr'd ;
" Not trusty when they should,
" Not trusted when they would :"
But ah ! our nobles now,
Loe, like Lysander still.
So that they get their will,
Regard not by what way,
And with a shamelesse brow,
Doe of the end allow.
Even though the meanes were ill;
Which all the world may see,
Disgraceth their degree,
Who (changing every houre)
Doe all base slights assay;
What can brave mindes dismay,
Whose worth is like a tower.
Against all fortunes povv'r,
Still from all fraud whilst free?
" These keepe their course unknowne,
"Whom it would shame if showne:"
Who not from worth digresse.
To slights which feare imparts.
Doe shew heroicke hearts.
The which would rather farre
An open hate professe,
Then basely it suppresse:
" No glory comes from fearefuU arts : "
148 Stirling's Poems.
But those who doe us leade,
As for dissembhng made,
Even though that they intend
Amongst themselves to warre,
Seeme in no sort to jarre,
But friendship doe pretend,
Not Hke their lord now dead,
Who trusting to his worth,
Still what he meant spake forth ;
The great men not for nought,
Doe seeke the peoples love :
Their deeds that to approve,
They may their mindes allure :
But Perdiccas is thought
Too slowly to have sought
Their doubtful! mindes to move,
As one who still conceits
He may command the fates;
His pride so great is growne,
That none can it endure;
Yet stands his state unsure,
Since odious to his owne :
" He must be once o'rethrowne,
" Whose humour each man hates,
" Pride doth her followers all,
" Leade headlongs to a fall."
The Alexandrcean Tragedy. 149
ACT IV. SCENE I.
Antigonus, Eumcncs.
Ant. Though stormy discord, and tumultuous wars,
Doe fire the mindes of men witli flames of rage,
That (hauing haughty thoughts, as heaven hath starres)
Their indignation nothing can asswage :
Yet Ice, amongst the souldiers waving bowres,
The heraulds cryes doe calme the trumpets sounds ;
And peace dare interpose unarmed pow'rs.
To limit for a time Bellond s bounds;
And (whilst of fury they suspend th' effects)
The seeming-friended foes together treat,
And every one shewes what his soule aff"ects,
Of peace a shadow : th' essence must be great.
Thus men magnanimous amidst the field,
Dare of their en'mies to the promise trust.
And (loathing what disloyaltie doth yeeld)
Not violate their vowes, nor prove unjust.
" Though love be past, yet truth should still remaine.
" I vertuous parts even in my foes applaud;
" A gallant minde doth greater glory gaine,
" To dye with honour, then to live by fraud.'"
And why {Eu7nejics) as mistrusting me.
Or standing on your reputation long,
Did you disdaine to seeke (as all men see)
A greater then your selfe, and one more strong?
Euni. Though we come not to plead our birth-right
here.
Let him (for warriours so should take their place)
1 50 Stirling's Poems.
In whom best signes of noblenesse appeare,
Be grac'd, as first who doth adorne a race;
Most noble he who still by vertue strives,
To leave his name in mindes of men engrav'd,
And to his off-spring greater glory gives,
Then from his ancestors he hath receiv'd.
Earst, we by birth in warre not marshal'd stood,
As at the table, upon ivory beds;
" A souldiers worth consists not in his bloud,
" But in their bloud which (as his foes) he sheds,"
What ever others of my linage try,
I am Emnenes, and will not accord,
That there can be a greater man then I,
While as I have a heart, a hand, a sword.
Ant. " Loe, when prosperity too much prevailes,
" Above the judgement thus of vulgar mindes,
" As little barges burden' d with great sayles,
" They move in state, all swolne with fortunes windes :
" And as adversity the sprite refines
" From th' abject drosse of pride, and passions base,
" That in affliction, vertue clearest shines,
" And makes one all the wayes of wit to trace :
" So doth good successe make the judgement dye,
" Then whilst the fortunate their ease doe take,
" And lull'd asleep in pleasures meadowes lye,
" As for the slaughter fat, and ripe to shake;
" Yet this the nature is of gallant men,
" To rest (as in no state too much involv'd)
" When prosp'ring warie, and most humble then,
" If cross'd couragious, when imbark'd, resolv'd."
What though your first attempts renowned are.
The Alexandrian Tragedy. 1 5 1
By which you in two fields victorious stood,
And did o're-throw two thunder-bolts of warre,
Who lost their lives amid'st a crimson flood :
Yet is that course of victory contrould,
And you have try'd what force your force exceeds,
Then, faded lawrels should not make you bold.
As still reposing on your by-past deeds :
For, by the fame to indignation mov'd,
The Macedonians all abhorre your name.
Who at that time so proud a conquerour prov'd,
Their great mens slaughter having wing'd your fame.
Eiuii. No fortune past so puffes up my conceit,
That it contempt of further danger brings :
Nor am I now dejected so of late,
But I intend to doe farre greater things.
" He (by prosperity made never proud)
" Who knowes the frailty of this earthly frame,
" Can hardly by adversity be bow'd :
" The sunne (although eclips'd) remaines the same.
" Worth should by th' events not be thrall'd to wit,
" On th' accidents as th' essence did depend :
" The fault of fortune cannot blemish it,
" On which oft times disasters may attend;
" Though fortune (stumbling right) concurre with worth,
" Or yet, it crosses bragge a gallant minde,
" Both like themselves are alwaies sparkling forth,
" In every state some tokens of their kinde."
Now at this time o're-match'd by num'rous pow'rs,
I kept my courage, though I lost the field :
And vaunt no more of this, for some few hours
May once to me the like advantage yeeld.
152 Stirling's Poems.
Nor is it long since that to fortune deare.
The world had never me but victor spy'd,
Though I protest by all th' immortals here,
Press'd by necessity, not mov'd by pride.
Proud Ncopiokmus that traytour still,
(Not worthy of a Macedonians name)
He to betray the hoste, and me to kill,
Had labour'd long to his eternall shame.
But I of Cratenis lament the fall,
Whom for his vertue I did dearely love,
And was constrain'd (I love to witnesse call)
For my defence that refuge last to prove.
Ajit. How fortun'd you your forces to dispose.
So well to scape that storme of threatned harmes^
For, then you had to deale with mighty foes.
Who were in warre growne hoarie under armes.
Eiim. When Neoptolemiis did clearely spy,
That all his treason to the light was brought,
He, where our foes were camp'd, with haste did flye :
" A foolish traitour who was false for nought."
There he inform'd, or mis-inform'd my foes.
That (by good successe growne secure of late)
I in my tent did carelesly repose.
Though not by force, to be o'recom'd by fate.
And to Antipater he further told,
That Macedonians, if they at that time,
Of Cratenis the count'nance did behold.
All willingly would yeeld themselves to him :
Now they had labour'd earnestly before.
That I abandon would Perdiccas part,
And did protest that they would give me more
The Alexandrian T7'agedy. 153
Then yet I had, or hop'd for in my heart.
" But love (born free) cannot be thrall'd nor bought,
" More then a shameful! peace I like just strife;
" To generous mindes more deare then honour nought;
" And ere I leave my faith, I'le lose my life :"
Thus when despair'd that I would prove their friend,
They sought in time to plague me as a foe,
Where love could not begin, that hate might end.
And came in haste to have surpris'd me so ;
But Neoptolcimis to crosse by slight,
The Macedonians I for him did bend,
And Craterus concealing from their sight.
To match with him, caus'd troupes of strangers tend.
This policy which none could justly blame,
I with my selfe in secret did conspire,
And had my shirt beene privy to the same,
It should have beene an offring to the fire.
When deaths first game (wath danger playd) was past,
I Neoptolcmus did toile to finde,
And he me too, which happ'ned at the last;
" Two will doe much to meet, when of one minde."
Then whilst we met for whom both th' armies warr d,
Whose fortune did depend upon our hands,
All was perform'd that force or fury dar'd,
Whilst both were bent t' abate the others bands.
And yet the heavens would not betray my trust,
(" Foule treason never had a fairer end")
But smil'd upon my cause (as which was just)
And did destruction to the traitour send :
For, forc'd by him whose force he did despise,
(Though fighting fiercely long) he lost his breath,
154 Siirli?ig''s Poems.
As one more strong then true, more stout then wise,
Whose greatest honour was his honest death.
But weakened with huge wounds, ahiiost I div'd
In seas of bloud, even quite from knowledge stray'd ;
Yet by so great a victory reviv'd,
My courage grew more then my strength decay'd.
I (having finish'd thus this fatall strife)
Did come where Cratenis his course had runne,
Even in the confines plac'd 'twixt death and life,
The one neere gone, the other not begun :
He with great valour had resisted long,
As all Bf'iareus hands had mov'd his sword,
And did his masters memory no wrong,
Whilst with his courage, not his fortune stor'd.
" What life refus'd, to gaine by death he thought :
" For, life and death are but indifferent things,
" And of themselves not to be shun'd, nor sought,
" But for the good or ill that either brings."
With endlesse glory bent to change his breath,
Of desp'rate valour all the pow'r was prov'd,
" And for great captaines no more glorious death,
" Then to dy fighting with a minde unmov'd."
When it appear'd where victory did tend.
That armies courage with their captaine fell ;
And whilst I safely might be scene a friend,
I went where death his spirits did expell;
And whilst I told how both to be betrayd.
By Neoptoleniiis were brought about,
My woe with teares I to the world bewray'd :
'' Milde pitty and true kindenesse must burst out."
Ah, if the nevves of this that I expresse
The A lexandrcean Tragedy. 155
Had come in time unto Perdiccas eares,
He might have liv'd their pride now to represse,
Who by his fall were first divorc'd from feares.
Ant. The humour of that man was too well knowne,
Could he have parted other men from pride,
Whose soule was sold a slave unto his owne,
And for the same (forc'd by his followers) dy'd %
Eutn. " The proud must still be plagu'd by prouder
ones,
" There must be had sharp steel to smooth rough
stones."
Ant. " No vice then pride doth greater hate procure,
" Which foes doe scorne, and friends cannot endure."
Eum. " Yet majesty must not it selfe deject;
" A lofty carriage doth procure respect."
Ant. " A haughty gesture shewes a tyrants heart ;
"All love a courteous count'nance, voyd of art."
Eum. " Yet manners too submisse as much con-
demn'd,
" Doe make kings scorn'd,andcaptaines be contemn' d."
Ant. " A humble port, kinde looks, words smooth
and soft,
" Are meanes by which great mindes may mount aloft."
Ewn. " Those are indeed for such as raise their
flight,
" They may doe more whose course is at the height :
" Imperious formes an empire must defend."
Ant. Thus hastned was Perdiccas to his end.
Eum. That worthy man had many faire designes,
" But vertue still by envy is pursu'd,
" Though (as a candle in the night best shines)
156 Stirling'' s Poems.
" It in a vitious age may best be view'd. "
There was a man who scorn'd secure delights,
As still despising paine, attemptive, bold,
A brave observer of the antient rites,
Steele strictly grasping, prodigall of gold ;
He lov'd to have the souldiers of his band,
Chus'd at the musters, not in markets bought,
And would not flatter where he might command,
More meet to have, than seeke that which he sought ;
But souldiers now in this degener'd age,
Are (fawn'd on by. faint mindes) brib'd in such sort.
That all the reynes enlarg'd unto the rage.
They with so straight a course cannot comport.
What was misfortune knowne unto them all,
Their malice as some great neglect did cite :
"All things must helpe th' unhappy men to fall,"
Thus forth they spu'd the poyson of their spite,
For, hating his franke forme, and naked words,
By that occasion whetting their desires.
They in his body boldly sheath'd their swords,
A deed which even barbarity admires.
Those trait'rous troups may spot the purest bands.
If for a fact so vile they be excus'd :
This will set swords in all our souldiers hands,
Against us, and not for us, to be us'd.
Ant. I wish that souldiers never could be brought
To prove so mut'nous as they oft have beene.
And that they durst not violate in ought.
Those who by them (as sacred) should be scene :
Nor like I captaines who (like blustring windes)
Would o're their troupes insult (as tyrants still),
The Alexandrcean Tragedy. 157
Not weighing merits, nor respecting mindes,
As carried head-long with a Winded will.
" Pride by presumption bred (when at a height)
" EncountYing with contempt both match in ire,
" And 'tvvixt them bring base cruelty to light,
" The loath-some off-spring of a hated syre."
Such oi Fcrdiccas was the monstrous pride,
(The vice from which that vice more vile proceeds)
That it strange wayes for his advancement try'd.
And did burst forth in most prodigious deeds;
At first by Mclcagers death when stain'd.
He show'd what tyrants harbour' d in his heart,
To whom faith given, nor yet the church he gain'd,
(Though sacred both) no safety could impart.
The Cappadocians (when all else was try'd)
Choos'd (rather then his insolence to beare)
By massacring themselves to scape from pride :
" Pride, spight and horrour, death breeds onely feare."
Yet what against his foes he did performe,
From martiall mindes might pleade for some excuse,
Since irritated thoughts which (wrong'd) doe storme,
In mindes offended, fury doe infuse :
But yet why sought he in a servile sort
To play the tyrant, braving his best friends,
Who with disdainefull formes could not comport?
" More then an enemies yoke, a friends offends."
And when of late by Ptolomie constrain'd.
He brought his bands with disadvantage backe,
How by the same his governement was stayn'd,
The world can witnesse by his armies wracke :
" But hate made judge, each errour seems a crime,
158 Stirling's Poems.
'• Whilst present ils doe aggravate things gone:"
His souldiers mov'd by fortune and the time,
Did by his death venge all their wrongs in one.
Einn. " As nought smels well to a distemper'd taste,
" So to conceits pre-occupy'd before;
" Even good seemes bad in them whom they detest :
" Men must mislike where they can like no more."
To you who loath'd Perdiccas and his state,
What ever came of him could not seeme good :
And I not wonder though your soule did hate
One who had right and pow'r, to take your bloud :
For, fled from him to whom you once belong'd,
His trumpet still breath'd terrour in your eare :
" Then all men hate those whom they once have
wrong' d,
" And by no meanes can love them whom they feare."
A7it. " That which you speake of hate, in love I spy,
" Love cannot finde an imperfection forth,
" But doth excuse, extenuate, or deny,
" Faults (where it likes) with shadowes of no worth : "
I left Perdiccas, but did him no wrpng,
Who first to take my life, all meanes did prove ;
I told Antipater how he so long
Had been abus'd by a pretended love:
For, as I frankely love, whilst lov'd againe,
If the ingrate, ingrately me acquite,
Straight kindling fury with a just disdaine,
I by love past, proportion then my spite ;
And yet {Eumenes) I commend thy minde,
Who to defend thy friend, hast prov'd so free.
And since in love so constantly incUn'd,
The Alexatidrffati Tragedy. 159
A friendship firme I would contract with thee;
Then where that now thy state hatli been brought low,
(Since spoil'd of him in whom thou did'st repose)
Whilst ayded by our power, thou great maist grow.
And raise thy hopes of kingdomes to dispose.
Eu??i. rie be your friend, whilst friend to right you
rest:
" For, without vertue, friendship is but vaine,
" Which cannot lodge in a polluted brest,
" Whose impious thoughts do sacred things prophane."
While as the oath is kept, which once was sworne
To Alexanders selfe, and to his race,
Still shall this sword for your defence be borne,
But in my heart they hold the highest place ;
And doe not thus, as o're one vanquish'd, vaunt,
Nor thinke me thrall'd, though once by chance o're-
throwne,
" The world must perish ere advent'rers want,
" Who tosse all states to stablish once their owne.
" Whil'st bravely taking or yet giving place,
" How ever feare (objecting danger) comes,
" Misfortune, bondage, torment, death, disgrace.
" And all things else, a minde resolv'd o'recomes.
ACT IV. SCENE II.
Cassander, Lysimachus.
Cass. " And must we buy our pompe at such a rate,
"Who beare th' authority, or whom it beares?
" O, O ! how thorny are the wayes of state,
i6o Stirling's Poems.
" With open dangers pav'd, and secret feares,
" Each of our steps is waited with some snare,
" Whil'st from our selves we all repose repell,
" And (in fraile barks) press'd by tempestuous care,
" Do seek a haven, whose heaven is but a hell."
Lys. " Whil'st Eolus and Neptune joyn'd in all,
" With winds, and waves, beat th' earth, and brag the
skies,
" The tumbling mountains do not rise and fall,
" Though each of them another doth surprise :
" As do th' aspiring pow'rs which are with doubt
" Toss'd through the waving world on stormy thrones,
" And are (as in a circle) hurl'd about,
" Ascending, and descending, both at once.
" Loe, some whose hopes would at their birth have
seem'd,
" By fortunes strictnesse, with contempt confin'd,
" Have from the vulgar yoke themselves redeem'd,
" To do farre more then such durst have design'd ;
" And they who once might life to thousands give,
" When some great period revolutions brings,
" Brought downe even low cannot have leave to live,
" Made lesse then subjects, who were more then kings."
Cass. What once they scarce could dreame, some
thus procure,
Whose pow'r though nought at first, last, scepters
swayes;
And some whose states seem'd once to be secure,
Throwne from their fortunes height lose glorious bayes :
My father, loe, to gaine that soveraigne place,
Through many dangers boldly march'd of late,
The A kxandrcBan Tragedy. 177
And did such monstrous cruelties commit,
In plaguing Philip, and his queene of late,
Loe, now brought low to taste the like estate,
Must take such entertainment as she gave,
And yet good reason that it should be so —
" Such measure as we give, we must receive."
Whil'st on a throne she proudly earst did sit.
And with disdainefuU eyes look'd on her foe.
As onely vanquish'd by her pow'r, and wit,
She did not weigh what doth proceed from fate :
O, O ! th' immortals which command above,
Of every state in hand the rudder have,
And as they like, can make us stay or go;
" The griefe of others should us greatly move,
" As those who sometime may like fortune prove;
" But as experience with rare proofes hath showne,
" To look on others, we have Linx-\i\% eyes,
" Whil'st we would have their imperfections knowne:
" Yet (like blinde moles) can never marke our owne.
" Such clouds of selfe-regard do dimme our sight;
" Why should we be puff'd up when foes do fall?
" Since what to day doth on another light,
" The same to morrow may our state surprise.
" Those that on this inconstant constant ball
" Do live environ'd with th' all-circling skies,
" Have many meanes whereby to be o'rethrowne :
" And why should dying worldlings svvolne with wrath
" So tyrannize o'er an afflicted wight,
" Since miseries are common unto all?
" Let none be proud who draw a doubtfull breath,
" Good hap attends but few, unto their death." {Exeunt.
VOL. II. N
178 Siirling's Poems.
ACT V. SCENE I.
Aristotle, Phocion.
Aris. Long have I us'd that light which cleares my
miiide.
On natures labours curiously to look,
And (of all creatures finding out the kinde)
Have read strange wonders in the worlds great book :
I mark her course by contraries maintain'd,
Whose harmony doth most subsist by strife,
And of all creatures in the same contain'd.
How various is the mystery of life?
But as all things are subject unto change,
Which partners are of th' elementall pow'rs,
So (roll'd about with revolutions strange)
" The state of man rests constant scarce for houres.
" Loe, what doth fame more frequently report,
"Then sudden risings, and more sudden falls?
" I thinke the world is but a tenis-court,
" Where fortune doth play states, tosse men for balls."
Pho. And never any age show'd more then this,
The wavering state of soule-ennobled wights,
Who scare too high to catch an aiery blisse,
Whil'st lowest falls attend the highest flights.
That matchlesse monarch who was borne (it seem'd)
To shew how high mortality attaines.
Hath not from death th' adored flesh redeem'd;
But paine hath made an end of all his paines.
And those brave bands which furnish' d fame with
breath ;
The Alexandrceati Tragedy. 179
Whil'st all the world their valorous deeds did spie,
Rest now (confounded since their soveraignes death)
Like Polyphemus having lost his eye.
And they are like that teeth-ingendred brood,
Which took their life out of a monster dead,
Whilst each of them would drinke the others bloud,
Since that great dragons death who was their head.
Aris. " So change all things which subject are to
sight :
" Disorder order breeds, and order it :
" Next light comes darknesse, and next darknesse
light,
" This never-changing change transcends our wit.
" Thus health and sicknesse, poverty and state,
" Dishonour, honour, life and death, with doubt,
" Still inter-changing (what a true deceit !)
"All link'd together, slide by turnes about;
" To worldly states the heavens a height appoint,
" Where, when they once arrive, they must descend,
" And all perfections have a fatall point,
" At which excellency it selfe must end.
" But as all those who walke on th' earth, are cross'd
" With alterations, happ'ning oft, and strange,
" The greatest states with greatest stormes are toss'd.
" And (sought of many) must make many a change."
Nor speake I this by speculation mov'd,
(As gathering credit out of ancient scroules)
" No, I have liv'd at court, and oft have prov'd
" Nothing below more vex'd, then great mens soules:
" The tyrant honours thralls, while as they mone,
" Their plaints to vulgar eares loath to impart.
i8o Stirling's Poems.
i>
" They all the weight of woes must beare alone,
" Where others of their griefe lend friends apart.
" Their verie rising o're us to the height,
" Which seemes their best is worst, for, being lords,
" They never know the truth that comes to light,
" When franke society speakes naked words.
" Whil'st sadnesse oft seemes majestic, time tels
" How deare they buy their pompe with losse of rest :
" Some but three furies faine in all the hels;
" There are three thousand in one great mans brest."
Pho. I thinke all monarchies are like the moone,
Which now eclips'd, now under cloud, now cleare
Growes by degrees, and is (when full) undone :
Yet ^son-like renew'd doth re-appeare:
For, loe they first, but small beginne to shine,
And when they once their spherick forme obtaine.
Doe coldly languish, and (till chang'd) decline,
Yet (falne) in other realmes doe rise againe.
Assyria once made many nations bow,
Then next, all power was in the Persians hand,
And Macedonians last (grown monarchs now)
Amongst themselves divided cannot stand.
Aris. " A secret fate (alternately) all things
" Doth in this circle circularly leade :
" Still generation from corruption springs,
" That some may live, of force some must be dead ;
" Each element anothers strength devours;
" Th' aire to the fire succumbes, the fire to raine,
" The waters strive to drowne the earth with showers,
" Which it by vapours vomits out againe;
" Thus (with a gordian knot together bound)
The Alexandrian Tragedy. i8i
" All things are made, un-made, and made againe :
" Whil'st ruine founds, perfection doth confound :
" Free from some change no state can long remaine ;
" But what in th' earth more dangerously stands
" Then soveraignty (though rated at such worth)
" Which like the stormy gods tumultuous bands,
" Doth flie from th' east to west, from south to north % "
Pho. A long experience now makes this not strange,
That mighty states whose reines one only leades,
Be oft distracted, and constrain' d to change,
As too great bodies for so little heads,
Since every common-wealth (where all mens wits
Doe joyne in one to breed the publike ease)
Hath many fevers and pestiferous fits,
Which physick ol't, oft poison must appease :
For (ah) the multitude more rash then wise,
A hydra-headed beast which humor blindes;
Doth passionately praise, or else despise,
As some prepost'rous fancies move their mindes ;
"From vice and vertue oft like danger flowes;
" Whil'st th' one breeds envie, and the other hate :
" As jealousie, or emulation growes,
" Those oft are crush' d who doe support a state."
Aris. " Whil'st some their betters, others equals
scorn e,
" The popular authority decayes,
" And when it dies the monarchie is borne,
" Whose violence disorders tury stales ;
" The raines of state it Avith most ease doth swaie,
" Of power (as joyn'd in one) the strongest kind:
" Still whil'st it (humbly high) doth hold a way
i82 Stirling s Poems.
" Twixt tyrannic and too remisse a minde ;
" But though states rul'd by one, may flourish long,
" Whil'st one can well command, and all obey,
" Whil'st guerdon goodnesse, vengeance followes
wrong,
" That (vertue cherish'd) vice is made decay :
"Yet (if nought else) time doth great states orecome:
" And all are bounded by some fatall houre ;
" What mis-adventures many wayes may come
" To dissipate the most united pow'rl
" O ! huge mishaps a monarchic may marre,
" When prosp'rous times doe (forc'd by fates) expire,
'• To further which oft strangers must make warre,
"And mut'nous subjects som-time may conspire?
" As jealous feare (when brav'd by danger) moves,
" All princes would suppresse aspirers still :
" And then a subjects course most dangerous proves,
" When either feare, or hope transports his will.
" But though that first to rise, last to descend,
" Great states are guided by a secret fate :
" Yet, still the cause which doth forgoe their end,
" Springs from contempt, or is enforc'd by hate ;
" The first in kings the lack of courage breeds,
" Encouraging ambition to rebell ;
" I'he other doth attend tyrannicke deeds.
" That violence may violence repell."
P/io. " Yet never did so many monarchs fall
" By forraine battells, nor by civill broiles,
" As by themselves who (seeming free) were thrall,
" Whil'st smooth-tongu'd minions gloried of tlieir
spoils.
The A lexandrcean Tragedy. 183
'■ Those who have raign'd by choice, by birth, or
worth,
" Or did encroach on crownes by chance, or crime,
" Oft suffer vices to burst freely forth,
" Which vertues colours guilded till that time.
" Men clearely show what harbours in their brest,
"Whilst (envies object) free from any feare:
" That which is eminent is marked best,
" And highest fortunes hardest are to beare :
" Low states to censure criticks doe despise,
"Whilst oft grosse faults for vertues fame esteemes,
" The stupid, patient, and the fearefull wise,
" Will, constancie, and softnesse goodnesse seemes.
" But on the stage of state when one must stand
" A publike actor plac'd in all mens sight,
" And (swaying pow'r) with an imperious hand
" Doth hold the ballance both of wrong and right,
" Then, he for every action that is his
" The censure of a thousand tongues must have,
" Not onely damn'd for doing things amisse;
" But for not doing all that all men crave;
" That prince but undermines the soveraigne seate,
" Who cares not who be weak so he be strong,
" More studious for himselfe then for the state,
" Or (if for it) that he may hold it long :
" For, where love him for all mens good ordaines,
" He thinkes both them, and theirs, made him to
please,
" As if a charge of weight, a place of paines,
" Were but a bed of rest, a heaven of ease.
" The worlds great weight which Atlas shoulders beare,
184 Sthiwg's Foe?ns,
" Is not so weighty all to weigh one downe,
" As that which on his head a king doth weare :
" No burdens charge more heavie then a crowne.
" TJi yEgeaJi waves time may more soone appease,
" Then restlesse thoughts whose course for state pre-
pares :
" Can they have rest who toile for all men's ease?
" The purple ever must be lin'd with cares."
Aris. " Good kings are like the fire which (flaming
bright)
" Doth waste it selfe to serve anothers turne :
" And soveraigiity is like fires glancing light,
" Which (if but view'd) delights, if touch'd, doth burne;
" I like for warmenesse to stand Vulcan by,
" But not to burne amid'st the Lemnian flame :
" In cedars shadowes men more safely lie,
" Then on their tops, the roaring deities game :
" All th' eie-attracting pompe and glorious showes,
" Doe merit scorne, though they amazement breed :
" The world them pittie more then envie owes,
" Who to seeme happy wretched are indeed.
" What alterations strange attend a throne,
" As if the spheare of fortune were a crowne?
" The great still toss'd like Sysiphus his stone,
" When rais'd most high, rest ready to fall downe."
Of this what greater proofe can fame afford
Then mighty Philips memorable fall,
Who daunted had the Grecians by. the sword,
Though till that time by strangers not made thrall %
He, he, then whilst he solemniz'd with state.
His daughters marriage, suddenly was lost :
The AlexandrcBan Tragedy. 1 85
It seem'd when heaven that monarchs daies would
date,
That Hymens torch gave light to Fluids post.
When strong regards had grav'd within my heart.
The miseries that proper were to court,
I thought them happie who (retir'd apart)
Could never know such things, but by report.
I might have liv'd with Ahwaiider still.
To vertuous men, whose favours were not scarce :
Yet rather choos'd (though having both at will)
To serve with Pallas, then command with Mars.
And whilst he toil'd of others Lord to be,
I of my selfe did labour to be Lord ;
Yet made as great a conquest too as he ;
My pen shall be as famous as his sword.
Pho. And had I willingly engag'd my rest,
The way to trace which to vaine glory tends,
I might have liv'd (respected with the best)
A speciall one of Alexanders friends.
Though I of him did never merit ought.
He entertain'd my friendship till his death,
And when he once our cities o'erthrow sought,
At my request did pacifie his wrath.
Then once to me a masse of gold he sent.
And offred too a stately Asian towne,
Which I refus'd, more pleas'd with my poore rent,
Then he with all the treasures of a crowne ;
I told, that such a summe but serv'd to make
Him a corrupter, me corrupted thought.
And foule for him to give, for me to take.
If us'd, sham'd both, unus'd, did serve for nought;
1 86 Stirling's Poems
0>
But all those baites I never daign'd to touch,
Least I (who all my life had liv'd so free)
Might be possess'd too much, possessing much,
If taking riches, it had taken me.
No, I would rather learne to live with lesse,
Then for superfluous furniture to strive :
" Who seekes out substance but to nurse excesse,
" To use it lives, not it that he may live.
" My fortune doth afford sufficient meanes,
" That may preserve all natures pow'rs in force;
" And he who on a golden scepter leanes,
" Can not have more, but may well use it worse.
" Then since aboundance, but abuses brings,
" Why seeke men more then how to be well eas'd?
" And (ah!) why toile they for so many things,
" Since with a little nature can be pleas' d?"
Aris. Loe! how the heavens, whose love to man
exceeds,
Have made his body strong, his minde divine,
And have made th' earth to furnish all his needs,
Least curbing cares might make his thoughts decline :
So that he hath a meanes to raise his flight
(If wing'd with vertue) and may (mounting hie)
By time approach to the celestiall light,
And deifie himselfe before he die,
Yet doth he straight forgoe that glorious way,
To toile for things which th' earth not forc'd affords,
The which his wants first fram'd were to defray,
But by himselfe are of his life made lords.
" O ! how unworthie of the worth of man,
" Are many labours which delight him most,
The Alexandraan Tragedy. 187
" Since that corruption boldly first beganne
" To make men nurse vile vice at vertues cost."
And now what hath great Alexander gain'd
By endlesse travell, and excessive cares?
(Of whom (loe) now, they onely say he raign'd)
But death vnto himselfe, worse to his heires.
And for the guiltlesse blood which he hath spill'd,
His conquests partners (loe) doe now beginne
To die even by the swords by which they kill'd,
And all his off- spring expiates his sinne.
Pho. " Strange revolutions sway all worldly things :
" The wheele of fortune still must slipperie prove,
" And chiefly then when charg'd it is with kings,
" Whose states (as weighty) quickly make it move."
Yet Alexander I must say was blest,
Who (still a victor) from distresse estrang'd
The worlds chiefe monarch when his state was best,
Did die in time before his fortune chang'd:
And for his favour which I oft did try,
Whom earnestly he labour'd to advance;
It grieves me that himselfe so soone did die,
And that his off-spring hath so hard a chance.
His successors have set all Greece on fire.
Of which I feare to perish by some sparke;
For, Polypercon doth my death conspire,
" And who can scape when made a great mans marke?"
Yet for my countries cause I'le give my blood,
" Whilst safely prais'd all follow vertue can,
" But (when by danger bragg'd) then, to doe good,
" O! that is worthie of a worthie man."
Nor doe I tender so this pufte of breath.
1 88 Stirli/iz's Poems
iy
But I can yeeld that nature it expell :
" A minde that is resolv'd triumphes o're death,
" He hath Hv'd long enough who hath Hv'd well."
[^Exeinit.
ACT V. SCENE II.
Cassander, Lysiinachus, Fiolomie, Seleucus.
Cass. No doubt (great heroes) Avhom the heavens
have lov'd,
(What ever count'nance duty doth pretend)
Your minds are glad, since those (by me remov'd)
Who might have made you end, have made an end.
Loath not the meanes if pleas'd with the effect,
For though by this I have a realme obtain'd,
It yeelds you more, whose course none can suspect :
I onely guilty am, ye all have gain'd.
Yet to pursue my life they first began,
For my defence this refuge last I prov'd :
"What then himselfe can be more neere to man?
" When bragg'd by danger who would not be mov'd?"
And if Olyvipias had not di'd in time
By offring up her blood to worke my peace,
Then mine had beene the harme, and hers the crime,
I but prevented her a little space;.
And if her off-spring had surviv'd her death,
Whose rising could not but procure our fall,
Yee, now who nought but soveraignty doe breath,
Had breath'd obedience, or not breath'd at all.
Lys. You from a dangerous yaoke have us releev'd,
The Alexandrceati Tragedy. 189
Which (I suspect) we should have tri'd too soone :
" And why then should we labour to seeme griev'd
"At that thing done, which we wish not undone]"
No, no, since all for soveraignty do strive,
And have once tasted what it is to raigne,
Each one of vs would rather die, then live
To beare a subjects servile yoke againe.
And though perchance with Alexanders sonne ;
(If heire to him in worth, as of his state)
We might have most respected places wonne.
As speciall pillars of the princes seate.
" Though greater then the rest, as of before,
" It would have vex'd us, lesse then one to fall ;
" The fall from first to second grieves one more,
" Then from the second to the last of all;"
Our envi'd glory had destruction brought,
And would have made us odious to remaine :
" It dangerous is for subiects to be thought
" Such as desire, or yet deserve to raigne."
When any tempest threat'ned had his throne.
He would have sought for surety at our cost :
" When lealousie (mindes worme) hath seaz'd on one,
" The greatest vertues are suspected most.
" Yea, though we could to quite our state consent,
" Us from suspition nought but death could purge :
" Still greatnesse must turmoile, or then torment,
" If borne a burthen, if lay'd downe a scourge."
Ptol. But when we have within our bosome weigh' d
The ruine of all Alexanders race.
Whom without blushing we might have obey'd,
By right succeeding in our soveraignes place.
1 90 Stirling's Poems.
How can our soules but highly be asham'd,
If one below them farre embold'ned thus,
Doth seeke by wrong that which by right they claim'd,
And by their ©'rethrow would insult o're usi
Nor neede I more as in suspence remaine,
To maske my meaning with ambiguous wordes,
No, no, our words may as his deeds be plaine,
Which fame (and that not whis'pring) now records :
Ye heare how that Antigorms of late,
(Whose thoughts (wing'd with good succes) soare too
high)
Doth strive above the rest to raise his state,
And by all meanes doth fortune frankely ply.
Since to his hands Enmenes was betrai'd,
Loe quite transported by prjepost'rous pride.
(As if in nought adebted to our ayde)
To yeeld our due he cannot now abide.
Lys. " Thus time the truth of all things doth pro-
clamel
" Man is a crafty creature, hard to know,
" Who can a face for every fortune frame :
" No trust in mortalls, no ; nor faith below,
" As our particulars doe sometime move,
" We, what we wish for most, seeme to mislike,
" And oft of others doe the course disprove,
" Whil'st we want only meanes to doe the like."
Then whil'st Perdiccas did attempt before
To make the rest who were his equalls thrall,
Who, then Antigonus detested more
The foolish pride of one that would have all \
But since Perdiccas and his faction fell,
The Alexandrcean Tragedy. \ g i
Whom he (as traitours to the state) pursu'd,
He, in his place succeeding to rebell,
Hath what he seem'd to end, againe renew'd ;
And yet I many times have mus'd of this,
How from the world he did Eumenes send.
Sel. How? but by treason as his custome is,
False at the first, and cruell in the end.
Lys. I know, that after many doubtfull fights,
He hath o'rethrowne Eumenes at the last:
But by what stratagems, or treach'rous slights,
I would be glad to heare how all hath past.
Sel. Antigomcs was at the first afrai'd,
To match Eumenes by plaine force in fight,
And therefore all that feare aftords assai'd.
For valour franke, still using warie slight.
Amongst Eimienes troupes (their mindes to prove)
He scatt'red letters with allurements stor'd,
By promis'd treasures, and protested love.
Some to corrupt who might betray their lord ;
But he (still wise) his troupes in time advis'd
To cleare their vertue by their enemies vice,
And gave them thankes, who would not be entis'd
To sell their faith at such a bloodie price;
Then said, that he himselfe those scroules procur'd.
That when they spy'd such practices againe,
They still might thinke them (by this meanes allur'd)
Their captaines triall, not their enemies traine.
Thus by the course which should have him entrap'd,
His adversarie did deluded stay :
Whil'st both he from that present danger scap'd.
And to prevent the like, prepar'd a way.
192 Stirling's Poems.
Then when he saw this poUcy had fail'd,
And that there had some doubtful! conflicts past,
Antigonus who had at one prevail'd
(x\s having had some vantage at the last)
Did with Eiuneites straight procure to speake,
And (as t' one vanquish'd) ofFred him good-will,
But he (whose minde could not be brought to breake)
Would onely talke as to his equall still :
For, when a band (betweene them made) did beare,
He to Antigonus should helpe impart,
That forme reform'd he first of all would sweare,
With Alexanders off-spring to take part.
Thus where they his submission did attend,
Imperiously conditions he impos'd :
So that thereafter to procure his end,
The other by all meanes his minde dispos'd;
And shortly of his bands a vaine debate,
For his confusion fit occasion brought;
" Still as by concord small things doe grow great,
" By discord great things are reduc'd to nought;"
While as Eumcnes fortunately liv'd,
The Agiraspidcs to him gave place,
Till that for state two of their captaines striv'd,
And his authoritie would not embrace.
Such was that spite of theirs to have him spoil'd,
That though of valour he rare wonders prov'd,
And oft by force Antigonus had foil'd,
Yet from their mind it could not be remov'd,
For (by their meanes allur'd) the other bands,
To get some baggage whicli they lost againe.
Did take their captaine, with outragious hands,
The Alexandrcean Tragedy. t 6 1
And, then the greatest, greater for a space,
Did manage all the JMacedonian state :
But I his Sonne who (as some would suppose)
Might keep with ease, that which he got with paine,
Can by no meanes my rest-lesse thoughts repose.
Such raging tyrants o're my fancies raigne.
Lys. And yet I thinke you have an easie part,
To whom his state your father did resigne,
For, it may make you smile, which made him smart :
" Some presse the grape, and others drinke the wine."
Cass. He not beleeve that ever any ill
Was bred for me within my fathers brest,
Since children must suppose their parents will
(Though seeming bad) still purpos'd for the best.
And yet my fathers ghost must pardon me.
Though when from us he minded to remove,
I thinke the tenor of his last decree
Show'd lack of judgement, or at least of love:
For, what base course had ever beene begun,
To make me seeme not worthy of his place,
That he preferr'd a stranger to his sonne,
As bent to cloud the glory of his race?
Thus since in such a sort he did neglect,
The Sonne who should his name from death exempt,
(As dis-regarded for some great defect)
All other men may have me in contempt.
But ere his age attain'd the fatall date,
He saw my brows with lawrell boughs array'd,
And spy'd my skill in warre, and wit in state.
Which grew as much as his had then decay'd.
Nor can my courage so be brought to bow,
VOL. II. M
1 62 Stirling's Poems.
i>
But Polypercon shall by proofe finde soone,
That in my fathers will, I will allow,
Not what he did, but what he should have done;
And since by him high dignities were wonne,
I minde to prosecute what he began ;
" For (though I would) so great a fathers sonne
" Can not securely live a private man."
Loe, Polypercoji by our povv'r repell'd
From Alacedonie hath rety'rd dismay' d,
And for the feare of us hath beene compell'd
To rest beholding for anothers aid.
Let him not think that shadows (though of kings)
Can match my pow'r with these his borrow'd bands ;
A doubtfuU flight all fram'd with others wings
Will never beare him from Cassanders hands;
And though Olympias count'nanc'd once his cause,
As from Epints come to ruine me :
Now of her owne misfortune she must pause,
Since brought of late unto a low degree.
Lys. And yet Olympias once did prosper well,
When first she touch'd the Macdonian bounds,
Whil'st Polypercon proudly did repell
All those who durst resist with words, or wounds.
Though Philip and Euridice his queene,
(To give them battell bent) in time arriv'd,
The Macedonians when they had her scene,
As their owne queene to do her honour striv'd.
And haplesse Philip whil'st constrain'd to yeeld.
There, for a kings did take a captives state :
And with his mate (though flying from the field)
Was follow'd by their force, and by her fate.
The Alexandrczan Tragedy. i6
J
Then did her husband and her selfe give place,
Whose brows of late a diademe had borne :
But then throwne dovvne in depths of black disgrace,
Were made of pride the prey, the butt of scorne.
Cass. Those were the means which did them first
entrap,
But have you heard how after they were thrall,
To plague the world with horrour, and mishap,
The proud Olynipias tyrraniz'd o'er all'l
Lys. Some doubtful! rumors did frequent each eare,
Such as rash fame confus'dly durst unfold :
But yet by favour hid, or else for feare.
The truth of all (it may be) was not told.
Cass. When thus the tygresse happ'ned to surprise
Those wretched souls (as ravish'd in a dreame)
Her heart at first seem'd scarce to trust her eves,
She surfetted her sight so with their shame;
But when she saw (by reason of her pow'r)
That she might safely let her rage burst out :
She them about caus'd build a lightlesse tower,
Press'd by whose walls, they scarce could turne
about ;
And in that dungeon (as entomb'd) they stood
With high disgrace t' appease more high disdaines,
Farre from all comfort, whil'st a little food
Their life prolong'd, but to prolong their paines.
" But for misfortune pity last doth pleade,
" As envy doth prosperity oppose;"
The Macedonians (then indifferent made)
On murmur'd rumours doubtfully did glose.
The peoples grudge Olympias did perceive,
164 Stiriitig's Poems.
And of just fury fearing the effect,
She straight resolv'd Hfes remnant to bereave,
From weakened pow'rs which did no lesse expect :
And when some Thraciafis basely bent for bloud
(As she had charg'd) with mercenary spight,
Her murd'red Philip, and his queene imbru'd
With these red streames that drown'd her Hfes deHght:
She sent to her whose soule in griefe did sinke,
(As messengers of death to bragge her brest)
A sword, a cord, and an empoyson'd drink,
A tyrants presents, yet a wretches best.
Those scene, the queene unmov'd this speech did
make,
(As one who had imbrac'd some great rehefe)
Fit gifts for her to give, for me to take.
Since she exceeds in hate, and I in griefe.
And tell the tyrant that I gladly dye.
That once the angry gods to venge my death,
May thunder forth that judgement, which I spie
With bloud must choak that bloudy womans breath.
Last, looking on her lord who there lay slaine,
Once partner of his joy, then, of his woe,
Whil'st that his roses did her lillies staine,
She kiss'd his wounds, as taking leave to goe ;
Lest time her resolution had betray'd,
Her snowie necke (not us'd with such a chaine)
Her girdle grasp'd; then dy'd no way dismai'd ;
And if she sigh'd, she sigh'd but for disdaine.
Lys. This barbarous act my breast with griefe doth
sting;
Can spight so much transport the meekest kinde?
The AkxaTidrcEan Tragedy. 165
" And yet on th' earth there's no more cruell thing
" Then maHce raging in a wonians minde!"
Cass. But yet this sacrifice could not asswage
The boyUng thoughts of her unbounded will :
For, ent'ring thus she rioted in rage,
(As dogges that once get bloud, would alwayes kill)
Each light occasion kindling still her wrath,
The soveraignty she shamefully abus'd;
And put my brother Nicanor to death,
Though for no crime condemn'd, no, not accus'd.
To some (when dead) an hate by her was borne,
Whose cruelty no floud of bloud confin'd :
(Of Tolas the tombe prophanely torne)
She (robbing th' earth) with ashes stain'd the winde:
To be Cassanders friend was such a crime,
As none could scape who ever favour'd me ;
Thus huge disorders did abound a time :
" Where laws not valued are, all things are free :
When having heard of this outragious pride,
Which made my native soyle contemn'd to be,
I those indignities could not abide,
Whose shame and danger did ayme most at me.
So that at last (mov'd by my countries care)
(As much as by particular respects)
I with great speed an army did prepare
To punish, or prevent the like effects.
But when I was to Macedonie come,
To fortifie a towne she did resigne.
Which I enclos'd, and quickly did o'recome,
Whil'st famine forc'd the fortresse to resigne.
Then to necessity weake pride gave place,
1 66 Stirling's Poems.
Her lofty courage was constrain'd to bow :
So that she rests depending on our grace,
To be dispos'd, as it shall please us now.
Lys. This chance the world to wonder may invite ;
Loe, there a queene who had (though now distress'd)
The rarest fortune, and the greatest sprite
That ever any of her sex possess'd.
The widow'd empresse who first bragg'd the Indes,
Or proud Thomiris though both prais'd have beene,
Or th' Amazons all borne with martiall mindes,
Have never beene more stout then was this queene ;
Her lifes first progresse did but prove too sweet,
Whom once the world with treasures striv'd to blesse :
But now sad soule (foil'd under fortunes feet)
Her misery no creature can expresse.
Cass. Those were but fortunes gifts which made her
great,
Whil'st treacherous shows by shallow wits were prais'd,
Her imperfections did but staine the state,
Where her not hers, but others merits rais'd:
When first that dame with famous Philip match'd,
Her cunning carriage was not free from blame :
But though she then with Argos eyes was watch'd,
(As was suppos'd) soone forfeited her fame;
At least (shame-fear'd) he did her first disdaine,
" And of that sexe the precious fame is such,
" Their tender honour any breath may staine,
" If tainted, foule; if but suspect'd, too much;"
Yet this at last did his destruction breed,
For which her spightfull thoughts had labour d long:
She by Pausanias privy to his deed,
The Alexojtdrcean Tragedy. 167
Had spurr'd him to performe th' intended wrong;
And by such raeanes long sought, that to her will,
Her husbands murder might enlarge the raynes,
Whil'st back'd by power she boldly did the ill.
Of which, too late, the troubled realme complaines.
Though loath'd of all (long suffred for her sonne)
She play'd the tyrant safely as she pleas'd :
But by the course that I have now begun,
I hope those whom she plagu'd, shall be appeas'd.
Lys. Yet of Olympias (though cast downe by you)
The sight her sonne and husband will revive.
And so may make the Macedonians now,
For her reliefe strange courses to contrive.
" Of those whose greatnesse doth regard extort,
" The miseries entender every minde,
" And still the affections of the vulgar sort,
" Are (head-long led) too cruell, or too kinde."
Cass. O ! but I can precipitate her fall.
Even by the meanes which might support her most :
For, pity shall barre pity, whil'st they all
Waile for their friends, who through her pride were
lost.
Lys. " As those to whom all other things are free,
" Must have their life and raigne both of one date.
" So private men who passe their owne degree,
" Can hardly turne to take their former state.
"Your fortune thus is trusted to the fates;
" None can retyre who enters in such things :
" All those who dare attempt against great states,
" Must dye as traitors, or else live as kings ;
" And though you would but some disorders stay.
1 68 Stirlin^^s Poems.
<b
" You deale with those who (borne not to be thrall)
" As torrents beare away what stops their way,
" And must of force (if not undone) do all.
" Such (though set free) will storme when they are gone,
" Who scorne to take the thing, that they should give ;
" All those must dye who dare but touch a throne :
" Who may endanger kings, they must not live."
Cass. Since in this course I onely once can erre,
I shall be sure ere she herselfe with-draw.
Lys. And yet what surety can you have of her,
" Can laws binde them who are above the law?
" Who can a concord make betwixt the two,
" Whereas the one must hate, the other fearef
Cass. O, but I minde to use the matter so
That both from hence shall further strife forbeare.
Lys. What can her freedome, and your peace pro-
cure 1
Cass. Death both can make her free, and me secure.
Lys. And would you do such ill to shed her bloud?
Cass. Yea, ill to others, so it do me good.
Lys. The Macedonians will abhorre this wrong.
Cass. And yet obey me if I be most strong.
Lys. But who shall have the realme amidst those
broils?
Cass. "Who ever winnes the field, doth owe the
spoils.
Lys. So to possesse the realme you have no right.
Cass. But I have more, so long as I have might.
Lys. This state doth to it selfe an heire aftbrd.
Cass. " All kingdomes rights are pleaded by the
sword."
The AlexaJidraan Tragedy. 169
Lys. The people all will grudge against your state.
Cass. But dare not stirre, whil'st feare exceeds their
hate.
Lys. And in their hearts they will detest you too.
Cass. Think what they will, who have no pow'r to
doe.
Lys. What though Olympias in a little space
May lose her pow'r, together with her breath]
Yet there remaines another of her race,
Who is by nature bound to venge her death.
Cass. " The raging streames of a tempestuous flood,
" Which drowns the old, not yeelds the yong reliefel
" What foole who of his foes victorious stood,
"Would spoyle an army, and yet spare the chiefe:"
No, since I must my selfe with murder staine,
lie by the roots raze all the royall race,
So that no pow'r shall spring from thence againe,
That may my selfe, or yet my plants displace.
The strength hath left great Alexanders arme.
Whose mothers fatall threed is now neere spunne ;
And I have meanes to keep my selfe from harme,
Both of Roxane, and her tender sonne.
But since this course may much our states advance,
By which a ground for great attempts is layd :
I must entreat you now (what ever chance)
To lend us your applause, though not your ayd.
Lys. rie be your friend, yet wish you would refraine,
From doing this ; but, ere you be undone,
Since by your guiltnesse I thus may gaine,
lie sufter that which I would not have done.
\ Exeunt.
lyo Stirling's Poems.
Olynipias alone.
Can I be she whom all the world admir'd,
As the most happie queene that raign'd below,
Whom all the planets have to plague conspir'd,
Of fickle fortunes course the pow'r to show?
No, no, not I, for what could me controuU,
Or force me thus t' attend anothers will,
Since I despise this prison of my soule,
Where it disdaines t' abide in bondage still?
Ah! whil'st vaine pompe transported fancies fed,
The jealous gods my state to grudge did tempt,
My state which envy once, and reverence bred.
Though now it breed but pity, and contempt :
Olympias once high as Olympus stood.
The wife of Philip, Alexatiders mother,
Who match'd Alcides, and Achilles bloud,
To breed a man more worth then both together.
Am I the woman whose majesticke state
Seem'd once so happy to deceiv'd conceits?
I, I am she, and never yet more great
Then at this present, even in spight of fates.
A double bondage long did burden me,
I to my selfe, my selfe to fortune thrall :
But now captivity hath set me free,
Who could not rise till first I had a fall:
" A sprit whil'st it prosperity benummes,
" Scarce like the selfe can to the world appeare :
" But then when vertue every crosse o'recomes,
" True greatnesse shines most bright in glories spheare.
" Our treasure now (1 see) consists no more
The AlexandrcBon Tragedy. 1 7 i
'' Without ourselves in th' eye-betraying shows,
" But in the breasts inestimable store,
'• Which neither time entombes, nor pow'r o'rethrows."
0 never were my thoughts enlarg'd till now
To mark my selfe, and quintessence my minde :
For, long (a prey to pride) I know not how,
A mist of fancies made my judgement blinde.
As those who dreame sweet dreames, whil'st wak'st at
last,
Do finde their errour when their eyes finde light :
Free from the slumb'ring of my fortune past,
1 now arise to judge of all things right.
" That cloud of pomp, whose smoak me shadow'd once,
" Loe, now remov'd, unmasks my life too late :
" And now I see, that scepters, crownes, and thrones,
"Are burd'nous badges of a dangerous state."
O happie woman, of true pleasure sure,
Who in the countrey lead'st a guiltlesse life!
From fortunes reach retyr'd, obscure, secure,
Though not a queene, yet a contented wife.
Thy mate more deare to thee then is the light,
(Though low in state) loves in a high degree.
And with his presence still to blesse thy sight.
Doth scorne great courts whil'st he lives courting thee.
And as thou wound'st him not with hid disgrace,
He with no jealous thought doth rack thy brest:
Thus both lye downe to rest, and rise in peace,
Then (if they strive) they strive who should love best ;
What though thou have not as the mighty ones
Thy neck surcharg'd with chains (ah chains indeed!)
Nor eares weigh'd down with orientall stones,
1 7 2 Stirling' s Poems.
Nor robes, whose worth may admiration breed;
So want' St thou that which we have ever had,
Sad mis-contentments, jealousie, and spite;
And though thy back be not with purple clad,
Thy thoughts are deck't with innocencies white.
As birds (whose cage of gold the sight deceives)
Do seeme to sing, whil'st they but waile their state :
So, with the mighty match'd, (made glorious slaves)
We happy seeme, whil'st we but curse our fate.
That blesse whose shew in us vaine eyes doth please,
Makes thee indeed with pleasures spend thy breath,
Who liv'st while yong in mirth, whil'st ag'd in ease,
And know'st not what it is to dye till death;
Ah! since I liv'd, I alwayes did but dye,
When seeming happy, then most wretched still;
Whil'st dazeling with vaine pompe each vulgar eye,
What strange mishaps did me with anguish fill?
The fates with fortune from my birth conspir'd
To make my life, a patterne of their might :
For both my parents from the world retir'd,
When I had scarcely look'd upon the light :
The world may judge how I was justly griev'd,
Whil'st angry Philip sought for my disgrace,
(A thing which once I scarce could have beleev'd)
And unto Cleopatra gave my place.
Then though I long (as desp'rate of reliefe)
For his offence afflicted had my minde,
Yet did his sudden death augment my griefe :
He was my husband, though he was unkinde ;
And when my sonnes rare deeds which fame doth
sound,
The AlexandrcBan Tragedy. 173
The world with wonder, ravish'd me with joy,
Those (as himselfe) who would all his confound.
To compasse me, did spite and power imploy :
Yet stood my courage when my fortune fell,
And still I toil'd to persecute his foes,
That some might fall downe who too much did swell,
Their bloud in marble registring my woes.
That which I purpos'd, long so prosp'red too,
That some of them did try (by torments strange)
All what a woman's just disdaine could do,
Whil'st spurr'd by jealousie, spite, and revenge:
But this arch-traitour, ruler of the rest,
Who thirsts to drinke the bloud of all our race.
Even then, with us when all succeeded best,
Did compasse me with ruine and disgrace.
Such was the tenor of my fortune past,
Whose least mishap had made another burst :
First, orphan'd, widow'd, and unchilded last,
A daughter, wife, and mother all accurst.
Heavens plague Cassander, let that base wretch try
That love his judgement but a while deferres;
And let his wife bewaile as well as I,
I murdred for my sonne, and she by hers.
Even as th' incestuous Thebans monstrous brood.
So may thy sonnes contend with mutuall wounds,
And never let thy house be free from bloud,
Till banish'd quite from this usurped bounds;
Thus, notwithstanding of my wonted pow'r,
To me (save wishes) nothing doth remaine :
But though condemn' d to dye, yet at this houre
Should I begin to curse, and to complaine
174 Stirling's Poems.
No, no, that custome best becomes poore soules,
Whose resolution cannot cHmbe more high ;
But I whose courage that base course controuls,
Must triumph still what ever state I try.
" Death is the port where all may refuge finde.
" The end of labour, entry unto rest;
" Death hath the bounds of misery confin'd,
" Whose sanctuary shrowds affliction best.
" To suffer (oft) with a couragious heart,
" It doth deserve more praise then deeds most
knowne :
" For, in our actions fortune hath some part,
" But in our suffrings, all things are our owne :"
Loe, now I loath the world, and wordly things.
Of which I both have prov'd the best and worst :
The apprehended death great comfort brings.
And hath no crosse, but that it should be forc'd.
O heare me now (deare sonne) if that thy ghost
May leave th' Elysian fields to look on me :
Of all things else this doth content me most,
That from this time I may remaine with thee.
And blush not now to see thy mothers end.
My death in glory with thy life shall strive :
It (as a captive) fortune shall attend,
That (as thy fellow) foUow'd thee alive. \_Exii.
Chorus.
Ah, ah ! though man the image of great love.
And, th' onely creature that gives reason place,
With reverence due unto the powers above.
The Akxafidrcean T)-agedy. 1 7 5
His heavenly progeny should seeke to prove,
By still resembling the immortall kinde ;
Yet makes the world our better part so blinde,
That we the clouds of vanity imbrace,
And from our first excellency decline;
This doth distinguish that celestiall grace,
Which should make soules to burne with vertues love,
Whose fancies vice luxuriously now feasts ;
" Vice is the Circe that enchants the minde,
" And doth transforme her followers all in swine ;
" Whil'st poyson'd pleasures so corrupt our tastes,
" That of halfe-gods, we make our selves whole-
beasts:"
And yet of ruthlesse Plidd s raging host,
The vice which doth transport presumptuous hearts,
And makes men from the Gods to differ most.
Is cruelty, that to the sufferers cost.
And actors both, is often-times appeas'd :
The gods delight to give, and to forgive.
By pardoning, and not by plagueing pleas' d;
And why should men excogitate strange arts,
To shew their tyranny, as those who strive
To feed on mischiefe though the author smarts,
Oft for the deed of which himselfe did boast,
Whil'st whence the' blow first came, the griefe doth
turne :
" For, that by which the minde at first was eas'd,
" May it in th' end the greatest burden give ;
'•' Oft those whose cruelty makes many mourne,
" Do by the fires which they first kindled burne ;
" Of other tyrants which oppresse the minde.
1 7 6 Stirling's Poems.
" With pleasure some delight it, in such sort
" That first the hony, then the gall we finde;
" And others (though from honours court declin'd)
" Some comfort yield (but base) by hope of gaine ;
" And, though some make us to be loath'd of one,
"We by their meanes anothers love obtaine;
" But cruelty, with which none can comport,
" Makes th' authors hated when the deed is done,
" Oft even by those whom it did most support,
" As that which alienates men from their kinde ;
" And as humanity the minde enchaunts,
" So barbarous soules which from the same refraine,
" More fierce than savage beasts, are lov'd of none :
" Since with such beasts one with lesse danger haunts,
" Then with the man whose minde all mercy wants;"
Yet though the minde of man, as strong, and rude,
Be ravish' d oft with violent desire,
And must, if fir'd with rage, be quench'd with bloud,
How can this tender sexe whose glory stood
In having hearts inclin'd to pity still
It selfe delight in any barbarous deed?
For, nature seemes in this to use her skill,
In making womens mindes (though weake) entire,
That weaknesse might, love, and devotion breed ;
To which their thoughts (if pure) rtiight best aspire
As aptest for th' impressions of all good,
But from the best to worst all things do weare ;
Since cruelties from feeble mindes proceed,
" In breasts where courage failes, spite, shame, and feare
" Make envy, hate, and rigour rule to beare."
Our queene Olympias, who was once so great,
The Alexatidrcean Tragedy. 1 93
Their glory darkning by that odious stayne :
And though Eumenes trusting to new hopes,
By flying labour'd succour to have found,
He was prevented by his trait'rous troupes,
And (like to some base fugitive) was bound.
Scarce could his stormy stomack bent to breake,
Daigne to entreat those who had him betrai'd.
Yet, hauing hardly purchas'd leave to speake,
He stretch'd them forth his fettred hands, and sayd :
Loe, what apparell now your generall weares,
Since with your faith his libertie was lost;
Yet he those bands not given by th' enemie beares ;
No, but by you in whom he trusted most :
And must he thus be led, who should you lead \
Is this the triumph which I should receave
For all my victories, thus to be made
Of captaine, captive; of a conquerour, slave?
How oft (my souldiers) have ye all of late
To me by solemne oaths sworne to be true"?
" But it becomes none in a captives state
" With loftie words his keepers to pursue;"
Nor crave I further favour at this houre,
Then that ye bath your weapons in my brest ;
Let not my life be in mine enemies pow'r,
Loe all that your commander doth request.
I know Antigotnis doth take no care
Who get my bodie, so he get my head ;
And he regards not, neither when, nor where,
Nor in what sort I die, so I be dead.
But if through horrour of so vile a deed
Your eyes looke downe, your haire erected stands,
VOL. II. o
194 Stirling's Poems.
Which in your mindes this much remorse doth breed,
That as your hearts ye will not staine your hands;
Then as your captaine, since not force I may,
I (as your friend) entreate, that now in time
I may but have a sword my selfe to slay,
You to excuse, whilst partner of your crime.
But when he saw that words could not assvvage
Their barb'rous thoughts which nothing could con-
troule.
Then having turn'd his courage all in rage,
He thus flam'd forth the fury of his soule:
O damned rascalls who have lost all faith.
Whom neither duty, nor yet merit bindes !
How oft was Alexander mov'd to wrath
By those your mut'nous and malitious mindes^
And, O ! what could I at those hands attend,
Which yet were smoaking with Perdiccas blood?
Of those who by like treason did intend
With old Antipaters to be imbru'd.
Heaven thunder on you from th' Eetheriall rounds,
And make you live (abominable band)
Base vagabonds, barr'd from your native bounds,
Then die detested in a barb'rous land;
And as ye have the world with murder fill'd.
So may your blood by the same swords be shed.
By which you have moe of your captain es kill'd
Then of your foes, from whom (like beasts) ye fled.
But neither courteous, nor outragious words
Could change his souldiers from their first intent;
Who forward led their captaine chain'd with cords,
(A scorned captive) to his rivals tent,
The Alexafidr(san Tragedy. 1 95
Where to the end that he might quickly end,
He ask'd, what stay'd Antigouus to goe
By setting of him free to gaine a friend,
Or by his death to rid him of a foe;
And soone Antigonus did hast his fall,
By this great magnanimity not mov'd ;
And tJi Agiraspides (dispers'd o're all)
As murderers, murder from the world remov'd.
" Thus oft have traitours beene dispatch'd in time.
" By those whom their upbraiding lookes dismay :
"That loath'd remembrance of the authors crime
" The actors death can onely wipe away."
Now claimes Antigonus when fame doth feast,
Above his soveraignes selfe in ranke to sit;
For Alexander \i\xi subdu'd the East,
And he hath conquer'd them who conquer'd it.
Cass. No doubt, but he will doe the best he can,
And hath within himselfe high things design'd :
" For whilst prosperity transports a man,
" Nought seemes difficult to a loftie minde."
Sel. Of those in whom he did suspect a sprite.
Whose courage serv'd his courses to resist,
He hath himselfe by diverse meanes made quite :
In others wreakes his safety doth consist;
Thus martiall Pithon who no danger spar'd,
(Whom Alexander held in high account)
Did at the last receave a hard reward,
For helping him Eumenes to surmount.
His sprite to tempt, and power fit to performe
Made jealousie Antigonus torment;
And yet he faign'd to love him for the forme,
196 Stirl'mg's Poems.
Till he his court did move him to frequent,
Where whilst he did (mistrusting nought) abide,
He publikely in all the peoples sight
(Though seeming justly) damn'd unjustly di'd :
" No wrong more vile then wrong that lookes like right."
Thus divers governours within short space,
Their government, or then their life have lost,
And others are preferr'd unto their place,
Who did depend upon his favour most;
Oft likewise me he labour'd to surprise.
By policy whom he would have o'rethrowne :
But I, whom Pytho7is danger had made wise,
Learn'd by his ruine to prevent mine owne;
To save my life abandon' d is my state,
And I have fled with danger as you see :
That you may know, how that man doth grow great,
Whose pride may plague you all, as well as me.
Cass. Then let us see what course we should intend,
Least (out of time made wise) we rue too late.
Lys. " I rather first pursue, then last defend."
Ptol. " A fire would still be quench'd ere it grow
great."
Cass. Then let us from Antigonus in haste
Demand our share of what he did attaine;
Since in this warre we did our treasure waste,
We should be likewise partners of the gaine :
But if against our suite his eares he barre.
And doe with scornefull words contemne our claime,
Then may our messenger denounce the warre,
And we shall shortly prosecute the same. .
Ptol. A mutuall band must made amongst us be,
The Alexandraaii Tragedy. 197
To make one fortune common to us all,
And from hence-forth we must all foure agree
To stand together, or together fall.
And since the princely buds for which we car'd,
(How ever dead) are dead, what ere we doe,
So to procure from men the more regard,
We with the state must take the title too.
And we must both be crown'd, and knowne for kings,
" The diadem of greatnesse is the tower :
" All vulgar judgements leane on th' outward things,
" And reverence state, where they obey but pow'r."
[Exeunt.
Ntmtius, Philastnis, Chorus.
Nun. Is there a heaven? and are there heavenly
pow'rs
To whose decree terrestriall things are thrall?
Or would the tyrant that begets the houres,
(Eternity not spar'd) extinguish all?
Loe, nature travels now, as big with change,
Since mortals all humanity have lost,
And in th' old chaos, or some masse more strange
To leave their essence all things earthly boast.
Can reasonable soules (from reason barr'd)
Even strive which most in cruelty exceeds?
What eye hath scene? or yet what eare hath heard
Such monstrous chances, and prodigious deedes?
Th' Arabian robbers, nor the Scythians wild.
With savage beasts, which doe (as barbarous) haunt
With such foule facts have not themselves defil'd,
1 98 Stirling's Poems.
As those who of civility doe vaunt.
Since Greekes (growne barbarous) basely are inclin'd,
All vertue vanish'd is, all good forgot.
O carelesse heavens ! wretch'd earth !
Cho. What loads thy minde?
Nun. A multitude of murders.
Cho. What?
Nun. What notl
Cho. We know that since our soveraigne lost his
breath,
Th' earth hath beene bath'd with many a crimson
flood;
Perdiccas did procure Meleagers death,
And his owne souldiers drown'd his breath with blood,
Th' Athenians prey Leonatus did remaine,
And (by Eumenes subtiltie dismai'd)
Neoptolemus and Cratcrus were slaine,
Then by his owne Eumenes was betrai'd.
Phil. "■ Man with his skill against his knowledge
strives,
" Where death his way attends, that way he tends,
" And t' Aropos the fatall razor gives
" To cut the threed on which his life depends.
" When Asia's victor after all his warres,"
Great Babylon to view had bent his mind;
Both I, and others, studious of the starres,
Did shew that there his ruine was design'd;
And to his successors we oft have showne
The meanes by which their fate might be controul'd,
Yet was our skill contemn' d, and they o'rethrowne,
As we fore-told, and as they now have told.
The Alexandr (Ban Tragedy. 199
Nun. They have told much, and yet I must tell more,
Their nevves were evill, yet were they not the worst.
Cho. And have the heaven reserv'd more plagues
in store?
As if we yet were not enough accurst.
Nu7i. " As th' earth in pride, the heavens in plagues
abounds;"
Our highest hopes have perish'd but of late.
Cho. Then wound our eares by hearing others
wounds,
That pittie now may tread the steps of hate.
Nun. Our queene Olympias (raging with revenge)
All Macedonie did with murders fill,
Which from her part the people did estrange,
Whil'st rigor onely limited her will.
So that when fierce Cassaiider sought her wreake.
She did mistrust the Macedonians mindes,
And for the time the nearest strength did take,
There, till the storme was past, to waite faire winds.
But soone Cassander did the towne enclose.
And as she held him out, did hold her in,
That (like a captive guarded by her foes)
She knew not by what way a way to winne;
And when lives scant provision did decay.
Then did bare walles but small refuge afford :
" '$i\vQ Scylla scap'd to be Charybdis prey,
" Who fell on famine flying from the sword."
Straight like pale ghosts, faint souldiers did remaine,
Whose bowels hunger like a harpie teares.
And with couragious words, the queene in vaine
Did raise their sprite (the belly hath no eares)
200 Stirling's Poems.
"d
All languishing did then begin to fade,
As if too weake to beare themselves about.
Legges fail'd the body, and the necke the head,
Then whil'st the flesh fell in, bones bursted out;
And when that meates which common are were spent.
Then horses, dogs, cats, rats, all serv'd for food.
Of which, no horrour th' eaters did torment.
For what not poyson was, all then seem'd good :
Some mouthes accustom'd once with dainty meates,
Wish'd what they oft had loath'd, vile cruras, foule
flouds.
And ladies which had liv'd in pompous states,
Fed, as brought up with wolves amidst the woods.
Yea, nurst by those whom they themselves had nurst.
Oft by the off- springs death the parent liv'd:
And which was worst, whil'st brests were like to burst,
None could give comfort, all themselves were griev'd. ,
Such was their state, no friend bewail'd his friend.
No wife her husband, no, nor syre his sonne;
For apprehending their approaching end,
All with compassion of themselves were wonne.
The dead mens smell empoyson'd them who liv'd,
Whil'st first made faint by a defrauded wombe;
Heapes were of breath and buriall both depriv'd,
That all the towne in end was but a tombe.
Cho. Life is the subject of distresse and griefe,
" That still affords us matter to bemone;
" And we by death can onely have reliefe :
" To live, and to be wretch'd, are both but one.
" Yet foolish worldlings toss'd with endlesse care,
" (Though at too deare a rate) would still buy breath,
The AlexandrceaJi Tragedy. 201
" And following feathers wavering through the ayre,
" Love life (though wretch'd) more then a happy
death."
Nun. When thus the world Olympias plagu'd did
spy,
All sought Cassander though for severall ends.
Cho. All as a pest them who are wretch'd doe flye :
" Ecclipsed fortune threatens losse of friends."
Nim. And she considering that she could not long
Hold out the siege, since victuals were grown scant,
Did send (as weake) for peace unto the strong.
Cho. " Thus time and travell all things once may
daunt."
Nun. Then did Cassander know that need con-
strain'd
Her so to bow, as every way diseas'd:
And, though he her request not quite disdain'd,
Yet the appointment was such as he pleas'd :
For, all the favour that she could procure,
Was leave to live a private person still ;
And yet of that she could not be made sure,
Which did depend upon the victors will.
Then whil'st Cassander sought his enemies ends,
Huge numbers with him alwaies did abide.
Cho. Yet might have many followers, and few
friends :
" Friends by the touch-stone of distresse are try'd."
Nun. But though the queen was rend'red in this sort,
A promise given that life should be preserv'd.
The tyrant with her sprite could not comport,
But from his faith, for her confusion swerv'd :
202 Stirling's Poems.
The Macedonians were together brought,
There to consult what did concerne their queene:
Of whom when as a number deepely thought,
Both what she was, and what she once had beene ;
Even as Cassa?ider had suborn'd them all,
Their parents came whom she had damn'd to death,
And did her rigour to remembrance call,
By which the multitude was mov'd to wrath.
Whilst from their brests all pitty quite was barr'd.
They did conclude, their queene behov'd to dye.
Cho. Durst subjects damne their soveraignel and
not heard?
So still may clouds obscure the worlds bright eye.
Nun. Yet did Cassandcr put (false every way)
A maske of pitty on a cruell minde,
And ofifred her a ship to flye away,
As if to death against his will asfeign'd;
Nor was this course for her delivery fram'd.
But onely as by chance that she might drowne :
So for her death that he might not be blam'd,
But onely Neptune who had drunke her downe :
Yet she (a princesse of a mighty spright),
Whose lofty courage nothing could o'recome.
Said, ere she scap'd by such a shamefull flight,
That she would heare the Macedonians doome.
But when Cassanders counsell was contemn'd.
Lest that the multitude had chang'd their minde,
When they remembred whom they had condemn'd.
And did the fulnesse of his purpose finde.
To rid her soone from paine, and him from feare,
He sent some bands from pitty most estrang'd :
The Alexandrian Tragedy. 203
Yet she 'gainst fortune did a banner beare,
And not her heart, no, not her count' nance chang'd.
She constant still, though mon'd, would never mone,
Whose stately gesture brav'd their bold attempt,
And did unite her vertues all in one.
To grace disgrace, and glorifie contempt.
She on two ladies shoulders lean'd her armes.
And with a majestic did march to death,
Like Alexander once amid'st th' alarmes,
As if in triumph to abandon breath.
" The height of vertue admiration brings,"
At this great magnanimity amaz'd:
As at the image of their antient kings,
Or then some goddesse all the souldiers gaz'd :
But (ah) some (forced by the tyrant) striv'd
To spoile (unnatural!) natures fairest frame.
And twixt th' alabaster balles, they driv'd
Th' unwilling swords that straight grew red for
shame.
Then, she in worth who did all else excell,
Would neither word, nor teare, nor sigh forth send,
But spread her garments o're her, whilst she fell,
As of her honour jealous to the end.
Cho. O strange barbarity, most monstrous deed !
Could men a woman, subjects kill their queene:
And could her fortune past no pitty breed %
Who ever gave the wound, hath not her scene.
The ugly author of those odious evils,
(Of punisment afraid) must still be sad.
His brest a hell, his thoughts all turn'd to divels,
(Through horrour of himselfe) must make him mad.
204 Stirling's Poems.
Nun. And yet the plague of these detested times,
Doth by more mischiefe aggravate our grones.
Cho. " No end in sinne, crimes are maintain'd by
crimes,
" Who fall in depths, must touch the bottome once :
" The path of honour hath but narrow bounds,
" On which who step, attentive must remaine :
'' Since rais'd so high above the vulgar grounds,
" That who thence fall can never rise againe."
Nun. Thus now Cassander (since he cannot winne
True reputation, but lives tainted still)
Imbark'd in mischiefe, failes the depths of sinne,
So if not lov'd as good, yet fear'd as ill.
Though (by his meanes) his ruthlesse eyes have scene
Fates (as it were from fortunes bosome) take,
His king by poyson, by the sword his queene,
Even yet himselfe more guilty still to make.
He (prosp'ring in impiety) grew proud,
And murdred both his masters sonne and wife ;
Thus he, who all the world by birth-right ow'd,
Could have no part of it, no, not his life.
Yet could Roxanaes death not ease his minde,
Nor her yong sonne, too soone made Plidoes guest :
But to undoe all Alexanders kinde,
That to revenge the rest, there might none rest.
By treason he (as all his deeds are done)
Caus'd Hercules his brothers steppes to trace,
Who was great Alexanders bastard sonne.
And th' onely remnant of that great mans race,
Loe, thus Cassander., enemy to all good.
Whose soule so much for Macedonie longs :
The Alexandrcean Tragedy. 205
Hath to the scepter swim'd through seas of bloud,
Yet, O weake right, since builded but on wrongs !
Cho. O, how ambition doth abuse the great !
Who with enough not pleas'd, still strive for more :
Loe, how our soveraigne seem'd to raise his state,
Yet made it but to fall whilst starv'd with store.
And since his trophees rear'd in severall fields,
Both him and his have to confusion brought,
" Then, what is all the good that greatnesse yeelds,
" Which makes it selfe seem much to be made nought?
" Thus, though the mountaines make a mighty show,
" They are but barren heapes borne up aloft,
" Where plains are pleasant still, though they lye low,
" And are most fertile too, though trod on oft.
" Greatnesse is like a cloud in th' ayrie bounds,
" Which some base vapours have congeal'd above :
" It brawles with Vulca?i, thundring forth huge sounds,
" Yet melts and falles there whence it first did move."
Phil. Since that worlds conqu'ror then whilst farre
from feare,
(By too much power press'd) so soone was dead:
Why doe his captaines strive who now should beare
The diadem that crush'd so strong a head?
O! when my minde is ravish'd through the starres,
To search the secret secrets of the fates?
What treasons, murthers, mutinies and warres,
Are threatning to o' rethrow usurp'd seates?
That false Cassander who betraid his lord,
And spoil'd the princely race, in mischiefe chiefe,
(A traitour both of heaven and earth abhorr'd)
Shall live but with disgrace, and dye with griefe.
2o6 Stirling's Poems.
'6
His sonnes (in wickednesse himselfe t' exceed)
Shall make the woman dye who made them live;
Then both (when drunke with bloud) to death shall
bleed,
And none of theirs their funerals shall survive :
When rash ambition should be cool'd by age,
Lysimachus shall by Sckucus dye ;
Nor shall Seleucus long enjoy the stage,
But by like violence shall breathlesse lye;
And subtle Ptolemies degener'd race,
(Long onely famous for infamous things)
Shall end and to the pride of foes give place,
Whilst a lascivious queene confusion brings;
Antigomis shall be in battell kill'd.
His Sonne a captive perish with disgrace,
And after that it Greece with bloud hath fill'd.
In th' end, destruction doth attend that race ;
The last in pow'r (though of their line not bred)
A niggard, and a dastard, beaten downe,
Shall (through a strangers towne, a captive led)
Of Macedonie bound the old renowne.
Chorus.
" What damned furies thus tosse mortals mindes,
" With such a violent desire to raigne"?
" That neither honour, friendship, duty, bloud,
" Nor yet no band so sacred is as bindes
" Ambitious thoughts which would a kingdome gaine :
" But all is buried in blacke Lethes floud,
" That may the course of soveraignty restraine.
The AlexandrcBan Tragedy. 207
" Which from the brest doth all respects repell,
" And like a torrent cannot be gaine-stood :
" Yea many would, a scepter to obtaine,
'" In spite of all the world, and loves owne wrath,
" March through the lowest dungeons of the hels,
" And from a diademe would breath with pow'r,
" Though all deaths engines brag'd them every houre,"
Yet, though such restlesse mindes attaine in th' end
The height to which their haughty hearts aspir'd,
They never can embrace that dreamed blisse,
Which their deluded thoughts did apprehend ;
Though by the multitude they be admir'd.
That still to pow'r doth shew it selfe submisse;
Yet by the soule still further is requir'd,
Which should scale up th' accomplishment of joy;
" Thus partiall judgements blindely ayme amisse,
" At things which stand without our reach retir'd,
" Which whilst not ours, as treasures we define,
" But not the same whilst we the same enjoy;
" Some things a farre doe like the glow-worme shine,
" Which look't too neere, have of that light no signe.
" No charge on th' earth more weighty to discharge,
" Then that which of a kingdome doth dispose :
" O ! those who manage must the reynes of state,
" Till their pale ghost imbarke in CJiarons barge,
" They never need t' attend a true repose :
" How hard is it to please each mans conceit,
"When gaining one, they must another lose?
" Thus, hardly kings themselves can evenly beare,
"Whom if severe (as cruell) subjects hate;
" Contempt dare to the milde it selfe oppose;
2o8 Stirlinsi's Poems
t,
" Who spare in time, as niggards are despis'd,
" Men from too franke a minde, exactions feare,
" Though in all shapes (as Proteus us'd) disguis'd,
" Kings by some scandal! alwaies are surpris'd."
Yet one might well with every thing comport,
Which on opinion onely doth depend,
If further danger follow'd not by deeds.
But every monarch (loe) in many a sort
Death (laid in ambush) alwaies doth attend;
Of some by mut'nous swords the life forth bleeds;
By unsuspected poyson others end,
Which whilst they alwaies labour to prevent,
A thousand deaths within their breasts life breeds ;
Loe, this is all for which the great contend.
Who, (whilst their pride themselves and others spoiles)
With their dominions doe their cares augment :
" And O vaine man who toyl'st to double toyles,
" Though still the victory the victor foiles : "
Thus Alexander could not be appeas'd,
Whilst he to raise his state did wayes prepare,
Which when made most, diminish'd most remain'd,
Where (with his fathers bounds had he beene pleas'd)
He might have left our crowne sure to his heire,
Who by his conquest nought but death hath gayn'd ;
Yet for no paines a number now doth spare.
To worke for that by which his wreake was wrought,
Which (though from it they rage to be restrain' d)
Would (if possest) their pleasures but impaire ;
Yet they by harme of others seeke the thing
Which by their harme of others will be sought :
" To him and his, each of them death would bring,
The Akxandrccan Tragedy. 209
" That it might once be said he was a king.
" We may securely sitting on the shore,
" Whilst great men doe (as toss'd on th' ocean) grone,
" Taught by their toyles, esteeme much of our rest :
•' For this doth thousands with affliction store,
" Which of the world as most unhappy moane,
" If they but chance to view some few more blest,
" Where if they would but marke, how many a one
" More wretch'd then they in misery doth live,
" It straight would calme the most unquiet brest ;
" The cottage oft is happier then the throne;
" To thinke our owne state good, and others ill :
" It could not but a great contentment give :
" There much consists in the conceit and will :
" To us all things are as we thinke them still."
VOL. 11.
THE TRAGEDY OF
JVLIVS C^SAR.
THE ARGUMENT.
At that time when the Romans travelled with an unsatiable
ambition to subdue all nations, by whose overthrow they could
conceive any expectation, either of glory or profit: Cains IiiUits
C(vsar, a man of a lofty minde, and given to attempt great things,
ascending by severall degrees to the Consulship, procurred a
power to warre against the Gaitlcs: amongst whom, after a
number of admirable liattels and victories (by the approbation of
all the world, having purchased a singular reputation both for
his courage and skill in arms) he being long accustomed to com-
mand, was so drunke with a delight of soveraignty, that disdain-
ing the simplicity of a private life, he was so farre from denuding
himselfe of the authority which he had, that altogether transported
with a desire of more, he sent to the Senate, to have his govern-
ment of the GauL's prorogated for five yeares : which suit being
repugnant to the lawes (as directly tending to tyranny) was by
the people publikely repelled. By which occasion, and some
others rising from an emulation between him and Pompcy the
great, pretending a high indignation, hee incontinent crossed the
Alpes, with such forces (though few) as he had in readinesse, and
with a great celerity came to Rome, which he found abandoned
by Poinpty, in whom the Senate had reposed their trust, whom
shortly after, by a memorable battell in the fields oi Pharsalia he
discomfited : and having by the overthrow of Scipio, death of
Cato, and flight of Pompeyes sonnes, as it were, rooted out all
the contrary faction, he returned to Rome, and indirectly by the
meanes of Antojiius, laboured to be proclaimed King: which
having rendred him altogether odious; Caius Cassius, Marcus
Brutus, Deciiis Brutus, Puhlius Casca, and divers others (noble
men) conspired his death, and appointed a day for the same: at
which time, notwithstanding that Cccsar was disswaded from
214 Stirling's Poems.
going forth, by many monstrous apparitions, and ominous pre-
sages; yet being perswaded hy Decius ByiiUis Albimis, he went
towards the fatall place, where the Senate was assembled.
The conspirators in like manner had many terrors : amongst
others, Portia the wife of Marais Brutus, although she had
insinuated her selfe in her husbands secret by a notable proofe of
extraordinary magnanimity, yet on the day dedicated for the
execution of their designe, through the apprehension of his
danger, she fainted divers times, whereof Brutus was advertised,
yet shrinked not, but went forwards with his confederates to the
appointed place, where they accomplished their purpose, every
one of them giving Cicsar a wound, and me a ground whereupon
to build this present tragedy.
THE PERSONS NAMES WHO SPEAKE.
lUNO.
C^SAR.
Antonius.
Cicero.
Decius Brutus.
Caius Cassius.
Marcus Brutus.
Portia.
Calphurnia.
Nuntius.
The Scene in Rome.
THE TRAGEDY OF
JVLIVS C^SAR.
ACT I.
Jufio.
Though I (a godesse) grace the azure round,
Whilst birds (all bright with eyes) my coach do move.
And am with radient starres, heavens empresse crown'd,
The thunderers sister, wife of mighty love.
And though I banquet in th' etheriall bowres.
Where ambrosie and nectar serves for meate,
And at the meeting of th' immortall powres,
Am still advanc'd unto the highest seat:
Yet by those glorious shewes of boundlesse blesse,
My burden' d minde can no way be reHev'd :
Since immortality affords but this,
That I live ever to be ever griev'd.
In vaine, vaine mortals seeke for helpe at me,
With sacred odours on my altars throwne :
What expectation can they have to see
One venge their wrongs, who cannot venge her own {
May Pallas then drowne thousands if she please,
Who metamorphos'd Diomedes mates'?
2 1 6 Stirling s Poems.
'i>
And must my enemies alwaies live at ease,
As me to spight appointed by the fates?
Of all the dying race which lives below,
With such indignities none could comport,
As wound my brest, whom gods and men doe know,
To be abus'd by love in many a sort,
Though knowne to me, from others if conceal'd.
His faults might breed me griefe, but yet not shame ;
Where, loe,nowboth through heaven and earth reveal'd,
Each slandrous theater doth his scorne proclaime.
If divine soules divinely liv'd aloft,
The world below would imitate them then,
But humaniz'd by haunting mortals oft.
Where men should grow like gods, gods grow like men.
My painted Iris in her beauties pride,
Smiles not on Phoebus with so many hewes.
As love in divers shapes himselfe can hide,
When he poore maydes (by Cupid spurr'd) pursues ;
He Danae (a golden shower) deceiv'd;
And did (a swanne) in Ledaes bosome light;
Then (turn'd a bull) Agenors daughter reav'd ;
And lo made a cow to mocke my sight :
But O ! I wish that with such wanton dames,
He still to sport would as with me remaine;
Not able then to touch celestiall flames.
All (like the drunkards mother) might be slaine.
Then such a troupe as Rheas bosome stores,
Would not hold him and me at endlesse jarres;
The heavens are pestred with my husbands whores,
Whose lights impure doe taint the purest starres.
" Though wTongs, when grosse, are heavy to digest.
The Tragedy of y alius CcBsar. 2 1 7
" An actors greatnesse doth some griefe remove,
" Of whom to suffer wrong it shames one least:
" If I were wrong'd I would be wrong'd by love'''
But (ah) this long, tormented hath my brest,
A man, a boy, a shepheard, yea, and worse,
The Phrygian fire-brand, the adultrous guest.
Who first wrought wrong by fraud, and then by force ;
He, he was he, whose verdict mov'd me most,
Whilst partiall fancies judg'd of beauties right;
Nor was it strange though one all judgement lost,
Who had three naked goddesses in sight;
And yet I know, had not his wandring eyes
The Cyprian brib'd by some lascivious smiles,
My pompous birds (in triumph) through the skyes,
Had borne the gold which oft her nymphs beguiles;
And am I she whose greatnesse is admir'd.
Whom love for wife, whom thousands court for love?
Whom haughty Ixion to embrace desir'd.
Yet with a cloud deluded did remove?
And what made me a matter to submit.
Where my authority might have avail'd?
Whilst though I promis'd wealth, and Pallas wit.
Yet with a yong man, Venus most prevail'd;
" But how durst he of one the glory raise,
" Where two contemn'd would needs the wrong repaire?
" It spites our sexe to heare anothers praise,
" Of which each one would be thought onely faire."
To venge my selfe no kinde of paine I spar'd,
And made his greatest gaine his greatest losse :
As Venus gave him Helen for reward,
I gave him Helen for his greatest crosse ;
2i8 Stirling's Poems.
■i>
Nor did he long with joy her love enjoy,
Whose fatall flames his country did confound,
Whilst armies arm'd for her did Troy destroy,
And Nephmes labours levell'd with the ground ;
Whilst Simois seem'd to be a buriall field,
Whose streams (as streets) were with dead bodies
pav'd,
All Zanthus plaine (as turn'd a sea) did yeeld
A floud of bloud, from Heroes wounds receiv'd;
Whilst braving thousands once, though much esteem'd.
By dust and bloud deform'd, of Hector slaine,
(Not like Patroclus by the sword redeem'd)
The body basely was bought backe againe ;
Then, by the same mans sonne who kill'd his sonne,
Old Friamus surpriz'd, sigh'd forth his breath.
And even most harm'd where he for helpe had runne.
The altar taking, taken was by death.
Though wrestling long to scape the heavens decree,
(Bloud quenching lust) last parted from the light.
He who lov'd Helen., and was loath'd by me,
Did (as a sacrifice) appease my spight.
Then, having liv'd (if wretches have a life)
Till (in all her ere dead, oft buried spi'd)
Though once known both, nor mother then, nor wife.
The fertile Hecuba (made childelesse) dy'd.
Thus, by those meanes it would have seem'd to some
That scorned beauty had beene well reveng'd :
But whilst they were o'recomed, they did o'recome.
Since they their states for better states have chang'd.
I in one part that people did confound,
But did enlarge their powers in every place :
Tlie Tragedy of y^ulius Ccesar. 219
All war-like nations through the world renown'd,
From Phrygian ruines strive to raise their race.
And yet two traitors who betray'd the rest —
O ! that the heaven on treason sometimes smiles !
Though having worst deserv'd, did chance the best,
More happy then at home in their exiles ;
Did not Antenor (stealing through his foes)
Neere to th' Euganian mountaines build a towne,
Of which some nurslings once shall seeke repose,
Amidst the waves, and in the depths sit downe :
Their citie (spousing Neptune) shall arise,
The rarest common-wealth that ever was,
Whose people, if as stout as rich and wise,
Might boast to bring miraculous things to passe.
Then false yEncas, though but borne t' obey,
Did (of a fugitive) become a king :
And some of his neere Tibers streames that stay,
Would all the world to their obedience bring.
Their ravenous eagles soaring o're all lands,
By violence a mighty prey have wonne,
That bastard brood of Mars with martiall bands.
Have conquer'd both the mansions of the sunne;
Their course by mountaines could not be controld.
No ; Neptune could not keep his bosome free :
The parching heate, nor yet the freezing cold,
Their legions limits no way could decree ;
Yet, of that city there can come no good,
Whose rising walles with more then barbarous rage,
The builder first bath'd with his brothers bloud,
Which their prodigious conquests did presage.
Oft hath that towne my soule with anguish filled,
220 Sfir/w^'s Poems.
£>
Whose new-borne state did triumph o're my wrath,
Like my old foe who in his cradle kill'd
The serpents which I sent to give him death.
By Sadins, Albans, Tuscans, oft assail'd,
Even in her infancy I toss'd Roines state,
Yet still Laomcdons false race prevail'd.
And angry luno could doe nought but hate.
Then when the gallant Gaulcs had vanquish'd Rome,
Who basely bought her liberty with gold,
A banish'd man Camillus chanc'd to come,
And her imballanc'd state redeem'd of old;
Great Hanniball our common cause pursu'd.
And made his bands within their bounds remaine,
With consuls and with pretors bloud, imbru'd,
At P/irasimene, and at Cannas slayne;
In Romans mindes, strange thoughts did doubt infuse.
But whilst they fear'd the taking of their towne,
He who could vanquish, victory not use.
Was by their brasen fate (when high) thrown downe ;
0 what a torrent of barbarian bands,
In inundations once their walles did boast,
Whilst Teutons huge, and Cymbers from their lands.
Like gyants march'd, a more then monstrous hoste?
But though from parts unknowne to ruine Rome,
1 led those troupes which all the world admir'd.
Yet did fierce Mariiis me with them o'recome.
And I in vaine to venge old wrongs aspir'd;
By meanes more base I likewise sought her harmes,
Whilst laniis church imported never peace,
I rais'd up abject Spartacus in armes,
Who neere eclips'd Romes glory with disgrace.
The Tragedy of J^idms Ccesar. 221
Though I who all the world for helpe have sought,
From Europe, Africke, and from Asia thus,
Gaules, Carthaginians, and the Cymbers brought,
Yet did the dammage still rebound to us :
Of heaven and earth I all the pow'rs have prov'd,
And for their wracke have each advantage watch'd :
But they by forraine force cannot be mov'd :
By Romans, Romans onely may be match' d.
And I at last have kindled civill warre,
That from their thoughts (which now no reason
bounds)
Not onely laws, but natures laws doth barre ;
The Sonne the syre, the brother brother wounds;
Whil'st th' eagles are oppos'd to th' eagles so,
0 what contentment doth my minde attaine !
No wound is wrong bestow' d, each kills a foe,
What ever side doth lose, I alwayes gaine.
But this my soule exceedingly annoyes,
That all at one time cannot be supprest :
" The warre helps some, as others it destroyes,"
And those who hate me most, still prosper best.
Whil'st with their bloud their glory thousands spend,
Ah ! ones advancement aggravates my woe.
Who vaunts himselfe from Venus to descend;
As if he claim'd by kinde to be my foe.
1 meane the man whose thoughts nought can appease,
Whil'st them too high a blinde ambition bends.
Whom (as her minion) fortune bent to please,
Her rarest treasures prodigally spends;
Not onely hath he daunted by the sword
The Gauls, the Germans, and th' ^Egyptians now,
222 Stirling's Poems.
But of all lords pretends to be made lord,
That who command the world to him may bow
Thus dispossessing princes of their thrones,
Whil'st his ambition nothing can asswage,
That the subjected world in bondage grones,
The prey of pride the sacrifice to rage,
" Men raile on love, and sigh for Satiirnes time,
" And to the present, ages past preferre,
" Then burden would the gods with every crime,
" And damne the heavens, where onely th' earth doth
erre."
Though love (as stupid) still with Cupid sports.
And not the humour of proud Ccesar spies'?
Who may (if forcing thus the worlds chiefe forts)
Then Titans earst, more pow'rfull, scale the skies.
Yet lest he thrall him too, who none free leaves,
We from the bounds above him must repell.
To brawle with Pluto in th' umbragious caves,
There since he will be first, made first in hell.
What? with that tyrant I will straight be even,
And send his soule to the Tartarian grove :
Though love will not be jealous of his heaven.
Yet luno must be jealous of her love;
And though none in the heavens would do him ill,
rie raise up some in th' earth to haste his death :
Yea, though both heaven and earth neglect my will,
Hell can afford me ministers of wrath :
I'le crosse Cocytus, and the smoaking lakes.
To borrow thence my brothers damned bands,
The furies, arm'd with fire-brands and with snakes,
Shall plant their hell where Rome so stately stands ;
The Tragedy of "Julius Ccesar. 223
Whil'st furies furious by my fury made,
Do spare the dead to have the Hving pin'd:
O! with what joy will I that army leade?
" Nought then revenge more calmes a wronged minde,"
I must make this a memorable age,
By this high vengeance which I have conceiv'd :
But what though thousands dye t' appease my rage?
So CcRsar perish, let no soule be sav'd. \_Exit.
Chorus.
" We should be loth to grieve the gods,
"Who hold us in a balance still;
" And as they will
" May weigh us up, or downe ;
'' Those who by folly foster pride,
" And do deride
" The terrour of the thunderers rods,
" In seas of sinne their soules do drowne,
"And others them abhorre as most unjust,
'^ Who want religion do deserve no trust:"
How dare fraile flesh presume to rise
(Whil'st it deserves heavens wrath to prove)
On th' earth to move.
Lest that it opening straight,
Give death and buriall both at once?
How dare such ones
Look up unto the skies,
For feare to feele the thunderers weight?
" All th' elements their makers will attend,
" As prompt to plague, as men are to offend."
2 24 Stirling' s Poems.
All must be plagu'd who God displease,
Then whil'st he Bacchus rites did scorne,
Was Petit hens torne :
The Dclians high disdaine
Made Niobe (though turn'd a stone)
With teares still mone,
And {Pallas to appease)
Arachne weaves loath'd webbes in vaine :
Heaven hath prepar'd ere ever they begin,
A falle for pride, a punishment for sinne.
Loe, luno yet doth still retaine
That indignation once conceiv'd,
For wrong receiv'd
From Paris as we finde ;
And for his cause (bent to disgrace
The Trojan race)
Doth hold a high disdaine,
Long layd up in a loftie minde :
" We should abstaine from irritating those
" Whose thoughts (if wrong'd) not till reveng'd
repose
>>
Thus, thus for Paris fond desire.
Who of his pleasures had no part,
For them must smart :
Such be the fruits of lust ;
Can heavenly breasts so long time lodge
A secret grudge?
Like mortals thrall to yre,
Till justice sometime seemes unjust?
" Of all the furies which afflict the soule,
The Tragedy of y^ulms Ccesar. 2
" Lust and revenge are hardest to controull : "
The gods give them but rarely rest,
Who do against their will contend,
And i^lagues do spend,
That fortunate in nought.
Their sprits (quite parted from repose)
May still expose
The stormy troubled brest
A prey to each tyrannicke thought :
" All selfe-accusing soules no rest can finde ;
" What greater torment then a troubled mindel"
Let us adore th' immortall powers.
On whose decree, of all that ends,
The state depends.
That (farre from barbarous broiles)
We of our life this little space
May spend in peace
Free from afflictions showres ;
Or at the least from guilty toyles ;
" Let us of rest the treasure strive to gaine,
"Without the which nought can be had but paine."
ACT II. SCENE I.
j/^iilms Ccesar, Marcus Antonius.
Cces. Now have my hopes attain'd the long'd for
heaven.
In spight of partiall envies poysnous blasts :
My fortune with my courage hath prov'd even;
No monument of miscontentment lasts.
VOL. II. Q
>6 Sth'lbisr's Poems
ti
Those who corrival'd me, by me o'rethrowne,
Did by their falls give feathers to my flight :
I in some corner rather live unknowne
Then shine in glory, and not shine most bright;
What common is to two, rests no more rare,
In all the world no Phcenix is save one,
That of my deeds none challenge might a shave,
Would God that I had acted all alone :
And yet at last I need to mourne no more
For envy of the Macedonians praise.
Since I have equall'd all that went before ;
My deeds in number do exceed my dayes.
Some earst (whose deeds rest registred by fame)
Did from their conquests glorious titles bring.
But greatnesse to be great, must have my name.
To be a Ccesar is above a king.
Ant. Those warre-like nations, which did nations
spoile.
Are by thy legions to our laws made thrall ;
" What can brave mindes not do by time and toyle?
" True magnanimity triumphs o're all."
C(^s. Th' out-ragious Gaids who in most monstrous
swarmes
Went wasting Asia, thundering downe all things,
And {Macedony quaking at their armes)
Did insolently make, and un-make kings :
Those Gauls who having the worlds conquerours
soil'd,
(As if the world might not have match'd them then)
Would sacrilegiously have Delphos spoil' d,
And warr'd against the gods, contemning men;
The Tragedy of yn/iiis Ccesar. 22
/
Yea, those whose ancestors our city burn'd,
(The onely people whom the Romanes fear'd)
By me (Rcvncs nursling) match'd, and o'rematchM
mourn'd :
So what they first eclips'd, againe they clear'd.
Then, as to subjects having given degrees.
The Gauls no more presuming of their might,
I (wounding Nept lines bosome with wing'd trees)
Did with the Avorld-divided Britains fight;
The Germans from their birth inur'd to warre,
Whose martiall mindes still haughtie thoughts have
bred,
Whil'st neither men, nor walls, my course could barre.
(Mask'd with my banners) saAv their Rhene runne red :
The easterne realmes when conqu'ring now of late,
My comming, and o'recomming was but one;
With little paine ear'st Pompey was call'd great,
Who fought soft bands whose glorious dayes were
gone :
But what though thousands set ones praises forth,
For fields which shadows, and not swords, obtain'd ;
The rate (too easie) vilifies the worth :
" Save by great paines, no glory can be gain'd :
From dangers past, my comfort now proceeds.
Since all who durst gaine-stand I did o'recome :
And, in few words to comprehend my deeds,
Rome conquer'd all the world, and Cmsar, Rome.
Ant Loe those who striv'd your vertue to sup-
presse,
(As whose great actions made them jealous still)
Whil'st labouring but too much to make you lesse,
2 28 Stirling's Poems
<b
Have made you to grow great against your will :
Great Pompeys pompe is past, his glory gone,
And rigorous Cato by himselfe lyes kill'd ;
Then dastard Cicero more your honours none,
Thus all your foes are with confusion fiU'd.
The senatours who could not be asswag'd,
Long to your prejudice their pow'r abus'd,
Till at their great ingratitude enrag'd,
I swore our swords would grant what they refus'd.
When having scap'd, endanger'd, and despis'd.
Brave Curio and I did to your camp resort,
In old bare gownes (like some base slaves) disguis'd.
All sigh'd to see us wrong'd in such a sort.
Cces. The highest in the heaven who knows all
hearts,
Do know my thoughts as pure as are their starres,
And that (constrain'd) I came from forraine parts
To seeme uncivill in the civill warres.
I mov'd that warre which all the world bemoanes,
Whil'st urg'd by force to free my selfe from feares ;
Still when my hand gave wounds, my heart gave
groanes;
No Rommis bloud was shed, but I shed teares :
But how could any elevated spright.
Who had for honour hazarded his blood,
Yeeld willingly (by foes outragious spight)
To be defrauded of th' expected good :
When as a multitude of battels wonne.
Had made Pontes empire, and my glory great ;
And that the Gauls (oft vanquish'd) had begun,
To beare the yoke which they disdain'd of late.
The Tragedy of J^ulius Ccesar. 329
Then glorious Fovipey, my proud sonne-in-law,
And Cato (who still cross'd what I design'd)
From favouring me the people did withdraw,
And had a successour for spight assign'd;
Not that he should succeed in dangerous broils,
But (even through envy) as they had ordain'd.
That he might triumph so of all my toils,
And rob the glory which I dearly gain'd;
With such indignity who could comport,
When prizing honour dearer then the light?
No (whil'st my soule rests soveraigne of this fort)
None shall have pow'r to rob me of my right :
And yet by love who all the world commands.
To use such violence I did mislike :
And would have oft abandon'd all my bands,
If that mine enemies would have done the like ;
But yet the multitude, which floting still
(As waves with windes) are carried with conceits,
With nought but my disgrace would bound their will,
And I committed all unto the fates.
Yet when at Rubicon I stood perplex'd.
And weigh'd the horrour of my high attempt,
My stormy soule a thousand fancies vex'd.
Which resolution buried in contempt.
Ant. " Nought in a captaine more confounds his foes,
" Then of a ventrous course, the swift effects,
" Since (so quite crush'd) ere they their thoughts
dispose,
" All good advice a care confus'd neglects."
Though when you march' d to Rome, your pow'r was
small,
230 Stirling's Poems.
The sudden news so thundred in each eare,
That (as if heaven had fahie upon them all)
It bred amazement, and th' amazement feare.
" Some secret destiny (as then was scene),
" Doth guide mens actions, and their judgement
bounds :
" Those who by hosts could not have frighted beene,
" A shadow, or a rumour oft confounds :
" A\\ hastie dangers so surprise the minde,
" That feare prevents the resolutions power,
" Or else the fates make curious reason blinde,
" When heavens determin'd have a fatall houre."
Great Pompey (loe) who was growne ag'd in armes.
And had triumph'd o're all the worlds three parts,
Whir St (quite discourag'd, by imagin'd harmes)
Fled Rome, though without reach of th' enemies darts.
As to a torrent all gave place to you,
And whom they call'd a rebell made their lord ;
Your successour Domitiiis (forc'd to bow)
Did trust your favour, more then feare your sword.
When in th' Iberian bounds you did arrive,
There, adversaries (who did vainly vaunt)
Had all th' advantage that the ground could give,
Of victuals plenty, which with us were scant.
Yet the celerity that you had us'd,
Did so discourage their disordred band.
That (as love in their breasts had feare infus'd)
They had no strength against our strokes to stand.
And when Romes generall with brave legions stor'd,
Seem'd to possesse all that his soule requir'd,
Whil'st us to daunt, both famine and the sword.
The Tragedy of yuUus Ccesar. 231
The sea, the land, and all in one conspir'd ;
Then, for your offices they did contend,
As those who of the victory were sure,
And (where they might th' affaires of state attend)
In Rome for lodgings fondly did procure.
Yet memorable now that day remaines.
When all the world was in two armies rang'd,
Whil'st Mars went raging through th' .-Emathian
plaines.
And to despaires high expectations chang'd :
When Pompeys partie had the battell lost ;
(As lyons do their prey) you did pursue
The scattred remnant of that ruin'd host.
On which new heads still (like a Hydra) grew.
Though victory in Africke fatall seem'd
To any army that a Scipio led,
Yet, you shew'd there (for worth in warre esteeni'd)
That Rome a better then a Scipio bred ;
And all our enemies were confounded thus,
Who us in number ever did surmount;
But Ciisar and his fortune were with us,
Which we did more then many thousands count.
CcEs. The sweetest comfort which my conquests
gave.
Was that I so might do to many good :
For, every day some Romanes life I save.
Who in the iield to fight against me stood.
Thus, may my minde be judg'd by the event,
Who (even when by my greatest foes assail'd)
To winne the battell never was more bent,
Then prompt to pardon when I had prevail'd.
232 Stirihig^s Poems.
Not covetous of bloud, of spoyls, nor harmes,
I (even when victor) did insult o're none,
But layd aside all hatred with my armes,
A foe in fight, a friend when it was gone :
" Of clemency I like the praise, more then
" Of force, which mortals with affliction lodes;
" Strength oft may prove the worst thing that 's in
men,
" And pity is the best thing in the gods."
Sterne Cato (still affecting to be free)
Who either death or life (if given) disdain'd,
Thy death I envy, who didst envy me,
The glory that I (saving thee) had gain'd.
Yet I to rents and dignities restore.
Even those who long my ruine had design'd :
And O ! it doth delight my minde farre more,
By benefits, then by constraint to binde.
Ant. I would have all my foes brouglit to their
ends,
CcBs. I rather have my foes all made my friends.
Ant. Their bloud whom I suspect'd should quench
all strife.
CcBS. So might one do who lik'd of nought but life.
Ant. Still life would be redeem' d from dangers
forth.
CcBs. Not with a ransome then it selfe more worth.
Ajit. Then life to man, what thing more deare
succeeds?
CcBS. The great contentment that true glory breeds.
Ant. Men by all meanes this blast of breath pro-
long,
The Tragedy of 'y id ins Ccesar. 233
C(Bs. Men should strive to live well, not to live
long,
And I would spend this momentary breath
To live by fame for ever after death :
For, I aspire in spight of fates to live.
Atit. I feare that some too soone your death con-
trive.
Cces. Who dare but lodge such thoughts within
their mindes?
Ant. Those whom the shadow of your greatnesse
blindes.
Cces. The best are bound to me by gifts in store.
Ant. But to their countrey they are bound farre
more.
Cces. Then loath they me as th' enemy of the state?
Ant. Who freedome love, you (as usurper) hate.
C(zs. I by great battells have enlarg'd their bounds.
Ant. By that they thinke your pow'r too much
abounds.
Cces. From doing wrong, yet I refraine my will.
Ant. They feare your pow'r, because it may do ill.
C(zs. The present state still miscontentment brings
To factious mindes affecting matters strange.
Which (burdens to themselves) do loath all things.
And so they change, regard not what they change.
In populous townes where many do repaire,
(Who at their meeting what they please do touch)
They further then their bounds extend their care :
" The idle who do nothing, must thinke much."
Loe, Rome (though wasted all with raging warres)
Whil'st private grudge pretended publike good.
234 Stirling's Poems.
Equality (still rude) engendring jarres,
Did prove too prodigall of Roman bloud.
Though yet now at the last attaining rest,
Whil'st all (obeying one) may banish teares :
It (if constrain'd) even scorns (as bad) the best,
This word necessity so wounds the eares.
The insolent with vile seditious words,
(Who trembled whil'st they heard the trumpets sound)
Stirre now their tongues, as we did then our swords,
And what Mars spar'd, make Mercury confound.
" The people thus in time of peace agree
" To curbe the great men still, even in that forme,
" As in calme dayes they do disbranch the tree,
"Which shrowded them of late against a storme."
But now I look'd (brave deeds appeasing spight)
That bursted envy should for anguish dye,
Darke shadows (as asham'd) do vanish quite,
AVhen at his height bright Phoebus cleares the skie.
And though their hatred deeply they disguise,
Yet can they not so hide enflam'd desires,
But that their spight rests sparkling through their eyes,
And boasts to burst out straight in open fires.
Ant. Since first (great Casar) I discern'd thy worth.
On all thy actions I did still attend ;
And what some whisper must speake freely forth :
" Franke admonitions do become a friend."
The men who do suspect that you aspire
Of government the present forme to change,
All in their soules your ruine do conspire,
And their affections farre from you estrange.
Since chast Lucretia (by proud Tarquin stain' d)
The Tragedy of yuliiis Ccesar. 235
Wash'd with her bloud the violated bed,
Whir St by his pow'r Eoi/ie basely was constrain'd,
All to obey which his curst braine had bred.
This government which some tyrannicke call,
Doth sound so odious in the peoples eares.
That they as tyrants vile, detest them all,
Whose greatnesse gives them any cause of feares.
Cces. I not affect the title of a king
For love of glory or desire of gaine,
Nor for respect of any private thing,
But that the state may by my travels gaine.
You know Sibylla's books which never faile.
In many mindes have an opinion bred,
That o're the Parihians Rome cannot prevaile,
Till by a prince her valorous bands be led :
" For as confusion is the fruit (we finde)
" Of those affaires which divers thoughts dispose,
" So soveraignty match'd with a gallant minde,
" Breeds reverence in ones owne, feare to his foes."
And O ! it grieves me, that these steps of ours
Have trod so oft on many a millions necks,
Whil'st yet the Parthian villipends our pow'rs.
And all our victories (not vanquish'd) checks;
Ah ! should a generall of the Roman race
Be by barbarians kill'dl and not reveng'd?
And should his ensignes, signes of our disgrace,
Rest in the ranke of conquer'd relicts rang'd?
No, no, (wretch' d Crass us) now thy selfe content,
He pacific thy ghost with Parihians spoyles.
My boyling fancies have beene alwayes bent
To match the matchlesse, daunt th' undaunted soiles.
236 Stirlitig's Poems.
Ant. With victories quite cloi'd, will you not then
Your safety once, more then new warres respect?
CcBs. No, though I have surmounted other men,
My fancies yet do greater things affect :
In emulation of my selfe at last,
I even with envy look on my owne deeds;
And (bent to make the new surpasse things past)
Now to my minde stale praise no pleasure breeds.
Ant. The world hath scene thee (great man) for
Romes good.
In danger oft of many a dangerous shelfe,
Whil'st for her glory thou engag'd thy bloud.
Of others carefuU, carelesse of thy selfe.
C(zs. Though whil'st in th' Aprill of my blooming
age,
I from the vulgar rate redeem'd my name.
Some with my deeds did burden youths hot rage,
And an ambitious appetite of fame.
Yet since the coldnesse of declining yeares,
Boasts to congeale the bloud which boil'd of late,
Whil'st loe, my life the sunne of glory cleares,
Who now of all the world am knowne most great ;
I cannot covet that thing which I have,
I have all honour that can be requir'd :
And now (as that which wants) would onely crave
To taste the pleasures of a life retyr'd :
But (save to serve the state) for nought I strive,
For, O! (neglecting th' ecchoes of renowne)
I could content my selfe unknowhe to live
A private man, with 2. plebeian gowne:
Since (Antho7iie) thus for the state I care,
The- Iragedy of y^ulius Cccsar. 237
And all delights which nature loves disdaine.
Go, and in time the peoples mindes prepare,
That as the rest, I may the title gaine;
Yet indirectly at the first assay
To what their doubtful! mindes do most incline,
But as without my knowledge, that they may
All marke your minde, and yet not thinke of mine.
\_Exeuni.
ACT II. SCENE II.
Cicero^ Decius, Brtdus.
Cic. Did I survive th' impetuous Sci/Ms rage,
And in a torrent of destruction stood,
Whil'st tyrants did make Rome a tragicke stage
Through a voluptuous appetite of bloud?
Scap'd I confusion in a time so bad.
Of liberty and honour once to taste,
That bondage now might make my soule more sad
By the remembrance of my fortunes past*?
What though I once (when first by fame made knowne)
From Catilines strange treason did preserve
This towne (when free from foes) thrall'd by her owne,
Since now the world from equity doth swerve?
A sparke of that conspiracy I spie
As yet not quench'd to have our state imbroil'd.
Which Rome to burne makes many flames to flie :
Thus one was spar'd, that we might all be spoil'd.
O worthy Cato, in whose matchlesse minde
Three (rarely match' d) things nature did reveale,
238 Stirling's Poejns.
Wit, honesty, and courage, which design'd
A citizen for Plato's common-weale :
Whir St courteous Pompey did things as a friend,
Thou as a wise-man spoke, and still fore-told
To what all Ccesars deeds would turne in th' end,
If that his pride were not in time controld.
And had we him (as wisely thou advis'd)
Given to the Gennans whom he had injur'd.
We had not now beene thus like slaves despis'd,
To see Rome's glory, and our owne obscur'd:
But yet I may (disbending former cares)
A space comport with that proud tyrants pow'r;
Age gives assurance by my hoarey haires,
Ere he Ponies freedome, death will me devour.
But all whose youth and sprite might have attain'd
Those dignities which Ccesar hath undone:
O ! ye have lost as much as he hath gain'd,
Whose rising hopes must be retrench' d so soone.
Dec. Though innovations at the first seeme strange,
Yet oft experience approbation brings,
And if with upright thoughts we weigh this change.
From thence the safety of our city springs ;
As doth a ship, when toss'd by several windes,
More danger runne whil'st pylots do contest,
So was our city vex'd by differing mindes,
Who did interpret laws as pleas'd them best;
Whil'st for one sicknesse divers drugges are us'd,
Whose pow'rs (repugnant) in digestion jarre;
Th' impatient patients perish, when abus'd,
So did we long whil'st cross'd by civill warre;
But now great Ccesar from tempestuous windes,
The Tragedy of y^ulius Casar. 239
Romes scattered mines recollects of late :
A pilot meet to calm tumultuous mindes,
A fit physitian for an aguish state.
Cic. The state from stormes secure by drowning
proves,
Now whil'st despaire doth doubtfull feares appease,
He (with the life) the sicknesse quite removes :
Thus is the physick worse then the disease.
This common weale (as all the world did spie)
Was by proud spirits in civill warres involv'd,
Yet like black clouds which would obscure the skie.
These tumid humours suddenly dissolv'd ;
And no disgrace unto the state redounds,
But to th' ambitious men that it abus'd,
Who (had their pow'r like Ccesars wanted bounds)
Would (whil'st they rul'd) have greater rigour us'd.
All parts (we see) bred people of all kindes,
And a"s advanc'd some bad men did abide,
In pow'r their equals, and of better mindes,
Some alwayes vertuous were to curb their pride :
But since that sacred liberty was lost,
The publike pow'r to private ends one turnes ;
And (as his lawlesse wayes did alwayes boast)
The common-weale by violence o're-tumes.
Dec. Though what you burden Ciesar with were true,
Necessity hath purg'd his part from crime,
Who was (foes force to shunne) forc'd to pursue,
And urg'd by danger to attempt in time.
To th' enemies envy more oblig'd he rests.
Then to his wit which no such courses scan'd :
For when quite barr'd from using of requests.
240 Stirling's Poems.
Th' occasion then invited to command.
His thoughts when cahiie, to storm fond foes did
tempt :
" True worth disdaines to suffer open wrong:
" A gallant courage kindled by contempt
" Burns with revenge, whil'st fury makes one strong."
Cic. O Dcci7/s, now a wrong account you cast.
The purpose, not th' event, declares the minde :
Tread backe the steps of all his actions past,
And what he compass'd had beene long design'd.
As by some sprite inspir'd, proud Scilla said,
That there in Ccesar many Marians were.
And Rome in time was warn'd to be afraid
Of that evill-girded youth, with smooth-comb'd haire ;
Then when (as still to quietnesse a foe)
The memory of Marius he renew'd.
By re-erecting tyrants statues so,
His thoughts all bent to tyranny were view'd.
That people-pleaser might have beene perceiv'd.
By courteous complements below his rank.
Who (lavishing forth gifts) the world deceiv'd.
And to gaine more then his, of his prov'd franke.
Though nought at all indulgent to his wife,
By prostrated pudicity disgrac'd ;
Yet did he save th' adultrous Clodius life,
To sooth the multitude, whose steps he trac'd.
Dec. " These be the meanes by which ambition
mounts,
" Without most humble, when within most high,
" As if it fled from that thing which it hunts,
" Still wasting most, when it for most doth plie."
The Tragedy of Julius Ccvsar. 241
Cic. Then he (still tyranny bent to embrace)
Was thought conjoin'd with Catiline to be,
And, had wise Catds counsell taken place,
Might with the rest have sufifered death by me.
Yet having deeply div'd in some mens soules,
With factious followers being pined oft,
He got the consulship which nought controuls,
And matching pride with pow'r, did look aloft;
To flatter them who now must flatter him,
His pow'r to make unlawful! laws prevail'd.
And those to crosse who scorn'd he so should clime,
He furnish't was with force, where reason fail'd :
But yet because he could not be assur'd,
To rule alone according to his will,
To governe France, he craftily procur'd,
So to be strengthened with an army still.
As Rome first warr'd at home, till being strong,
She thought her power might forraine realmes o're-
come.
So Ccesar warr'd against strange nations long,
Till that he thought his might might conquer Rome.
Then having all that force or fate assignes,
Of discontentment he did cause pretend.
So to dissemble fore-conceiv'd designes :
" One soone may finde a fault that would offend : "
But when he first in a prodigious dreame.
His mother seem'd incestuously to use,
It might have shown to his eternall shame.
How of his birth the bounds he did abuse.
Dec. And yet I thinke (avoyding threatned harmes)
He by constraint imbark'd in civill broyles :
VOL. II. R
242 Stirling'' s Poems.
Did he not covenant to quite his armes,
As not desirous of his countries spoiles?
Cic. Durst he with those who had his charge con-
fin' d,
Stand to capitulate, as if their mate,
Where (as his soveraigne) to obey their minde,
It was his duty, and their due of late.
What? whaf? durst he whom (bound to keep the law)
The people in authority did put
The sword which they had given, against them draw;
When it was sharpned first their throat to cut?
That had not come which all our anguish breeds.
If he unforc'd when as his charge expir'd;
Till that the senate censur'd had his deeds,
Had from his province peaceably retir'd.
No, he hath but betray'd his native towne,
Those bands, by which she did him first preferre,
T' enlarge her borders, and his owne renowne
Those hath he us'd to tyrannize o're her.
My passions (ah ! transported as you see
With an excessive love to my deare soile)
Of my hearts store have made my tongue too free,
By flaming forth what in my brest doth boile.
Dec. That Ccesars part might justly be excus'd,
Loe, with the cause alledg'd, his course accords.
Of which that mildenesse which he since hath us'd,
A testimony to the world affords.
Though forc'd to fight, he alwaies had great care
To save our citizens as each man knowes,
And will'd his captaines Romanes still to spare;
Barbarians bodies objects were for blowes.
The Tragedy of J^idius Ccesar. 243
Of th' adversaries after bloudy strife,
Wlien oft he might have made some captives smart,
Not onely was he liberall of their Hfe,
But pardon'd them, even to take Pompeys part;
At that infortunate Pharsalian field,
When he securely might have us'd the sword,
He both did spare all th' enemies that would yeeld,
And them to rents and dignities restor'd :
Then when th' Egyptians (so to get reliefe)
Brought to his sight pale Pompeys bloudlesse head,
He testifi'd with teares his inward griefe,
And grac'd his statues after he was dead.
Those his proceedings plainely may approve,
That he against his will did make this warre;
And to his country beares a tender love,
Who could comport to reyne his rage so farre.
Cic. Those favours fain'd, by him bestow'd, or
due,
(As is ones custome whose high heart aspires,)
Were spent on many that who them did view
Might love his course, so kindling their desires :
But where he thus pleas'd some, he spoil'd whole
hosts.
And the barbarians all to Rome not wrousrht
Such harme as he, who, of his goodnesse boasts,
Yet her best men hath to confusion brought ;
That great man, whom earst fortune ne're did fayle,
Who still prevail' d, though warring without right.
Now in a good cause, for the common-weale
With C(2sar did infortunately fight.
Whilst fled from Lesbos with his wretched wife,
244 Stirling's Poems.
Three base-borne groomes (can fortune change so
sooneO
Stood to consult upon great Pompeys life,
And did what thousands durst not once have done;
Then he whose knees had oft been kiss'd by kings,
(Most highly happy, had he dy'd in time)
By one of his owne slaves, with abject things
His funerals had perform'd; what monstrous crime
Romes greatest captaine to entombe alone?
The Roman who arriv'd with reason said:
The fatall glory was too great for one,
And to have part of that last honour staid;
The teares bestow'd by Ccesar on his head,
Forth from a guilty minde, remorse had throwne :
Or else he wept to see his enemie dead
By any others hands then by his owne.
That constant Cato, who even death did scorne,
And for a coward once had Ccrsar brav'd,
(Who liv'd as if to grace all mortals borne)
Would rather perish then by him be sav'd.
He justly whilst more just, himselfe more strong
Then Ccssar thought, who for no justice car'd :
And since discovering what he cloak' d so long,
Said, that the other, and not he was snar'd.
Thus CcBsar conquer' d all but Cafos minde,
Who to a tyrant would not owe his breath :
But in such sort his famous course confin'd,
Then Ciesars life, more glorious was his death :
Those great men thus brought to disastrous ends,
The author of their death make me despise^
Who to usurpe all pow'r while as he tends,
The Tragedy of yiilms Ccesar. 245
By treading good men downe, doth strive to rise.
Now made most great by lessening all the great,
He proudly doth triumph in Rome, o're Rome:
And we must seeme to like the present state,
Whose doubtfull breath depends upon his doome.
Yet had I not enlarg'd my griefes so long.
To you whom Ccesar doth pretend to love ;
Save that (I know) touch'd with the common wrong :
" A just disdaine all generous mindes must move."
Dec. Had Ccesar willingly resign'd his armes,
And rendered Rome her liberty at last,
When as from foes he fear'd no further harmes.
But had repair'd his just displeasures past.
More then for all that could be done for me,
He should have had an altar in my brest,
As worthy (for his vertuous deeds) to be
Fear'd by the bad, and honour'd by the best:
But since (though conqu'ring all the world by might)
He (to himselfe a slave) would make Rome thrall.
His benefits are loathsome in my sight,
And I am griev'd that he deserves to fall;
My fancies move not in so low a sphere,
But I disdaine that one Romes crowne requires;
Yet it is best that with the time we beare.
And with our pow'r proportion our desires.
Though first dissembling, so your minde to try,
I told what fame to Ccesars praise relates;
Yet was I pleas'd, that moe were griev'd then I :
" All miscontented men are glad of mates."
Cic. Since tyranny all liberty exiles.
We must our selves (no more our selves) disguise;
246 Stirling's Poems.
Then, learn to maske a mourning minde with smiles,
And seeme to like that which we most despise.
Yet all our deeds not Ccvsars humour please.
Who (since mistrusting once) esteemes us still,
When dumb disdainefull, flatterers when we praise,
If plaine, presumptuous, and in all things ill :
Yea, we, whose freedome Ccesar now restraines,
As his attenders all his stepes piust trace;
And know, yet not acknowledge his disdaines,
But still pretend an interest in his grace :
Though all my thoughts detest him as a foe.
To honour him, a thousand meanes I move.
Yet but to save my selfe, and plague him so :
" No hate more harmes then it that lookes like love."
His pride is by prepost'rous state growne such,
That by the better sort, he is abhorr'd;
The gods are jealous, and men envy much
To see a mortall man so much ador'd.
Dec. Well, Cicero let all meanes be entertain'd,
That may embarke us in his bosomes deepes,
Till either willingly, or then constrain'd,
He justly quite what he unjustly keepes. \_Excu7it.
CHORUS.
" This life of ours is like a rose,
" Which whilst rare beauties it array,
" Doth then enjoy the. least repose;
" When virgin-like made blush (we see)
" Of every hand it is the prey,
" And by each winde is blowne away;
The Tragedy of 'J^ulius Cccsar. 247
" Yea, though from violence scap'd free,
" (Thus time triumphs, and leades all thrals)
" Yet doth it languish and decay :
" O ! whilst the courage hottest boiles,
" And that our life seemes best to be,
" It is with dangers corapast still ;
" Whilst it each little change appalles,
" The body, force, without oft foiles,
" It th' owne distemp'rature oft spoiles,
"And even, though none it chance to kill,
"As nature failes, the body falles,
" Of which save death, nought bounds the toyles :
" What is this moving tow'r in which we trusts
" A little Avinde clos'd in a cloud of dust."
And yet some sprites though being pent
In this fraile prisons narrow bounds,
(Whilst what might serve, dotli not content,)
Doe alwaies bend their thoughts too high,
And ayme at all the peopled grounds ;
Then whilst their brests ambition wounds,
They feed as fearing straight to dye,
Yet build as if they still might live,
Whilst famish'd for fames empty sounds :
Of such no end the travell ends,
But a beginning gives, whereby
They may be vex'd worse then before ;
For, whilst they still new hopes contrive,
" The hoped good more anguish sends,
"Then the possess'd contentment lends;"
As beasts not taste, but doe devoure.
They swallow much, and for more strive.
!48 Stirling's Poems.
Whilst still their hope some change attends :
" And how can such but still themselves annoy,
" Who can acquire, but know not how t' enjoy?"
Since as a ship amidst the deepes,
Or as an eagle through the ayre.
Of which no waye th' impression keepes,
Most swift when seeming least to move:
This breath of which we take such care,
Doth tosse the body every where,
That it may hence with haste remove :
" Life slips and sleepes alwayes away,
" Then hence, and as it came, goes bare,"
Whose steppes behinde no trace do leave;
Why should heaven-banish'd soules thus love.
The cause, and bounds of their exile,
As restlesse strangers where they stray?
And Avith such paine why should they reave,
That which they have no right to have,
Which with them in a little while.
As summers beauties must decay.
And can give nought except the grave?
"Though all things doe to harme him what they
can,
" No greater enemie then himselfe to man ;
Whilst oft environ'd with his foes,
Which threatned death on every side,
Great Cccsar parted from repose,
(As Atlas holding up the starres)
Did of a world the weight abide ;
But since a prey to foolish pride,
More then by all the former warres.
The Tragedy of yulius Ccesar. 249
He now by it doth harm'd remaine,
And of his fortune doth diffide:
Made rich by many nations wreake,
He (breaking through the hquid barres)
In Neptioies armes his minion forc'd;
Yet still pursu'd new hopes in vaine :
" Would the ambitious looking backe
" Of their inferiors knowledge take,
" They from huge cares might be divorced,
" Whilst viewing few, more pow'r attaine,
" And many more then they to lacke :
" The onely plague from men that rest doth reave,
" Is that they weigh their wants, not what they have."
Since thus the great themselves involve
In such a labyrinth of cares,
Whence none to scape can well resolve,
But by degrees are forward led,
Through waves of hopes, rockes of despaires :
Let us avoyd ambitions snares.
And farre from stormes by envy bred.
Still seeke (though low) a quiet rest,
With mindes where no proud thought repaires,
That in vaine shadowes doth delight;
Thus may our fancies still be fed
With that which nature freely gives;
Let us iniquity detest,
And hold but what we owe of right ;
Th' eyes treasure is th' all-circling light.
Not that vaine pompe for which pride strives.
Whose glory (but a poysnous pest)
To plague the soule, delights the sight :
250 Stirli?ig's Poems.
" Ease comes with ease, where all by paine buy paine,
" Rest we in peace, by warre let others raigne."
ACT III. SCENE I.
Caius Cassius, Marcus Brutus.
Cass. Now [Briitns) now we need no more to doubt.
Nor with blinde hopes our judgement to suspend,
That flatt'rers credit (loe) is quite worne out ;
We must in time attempt, and not attend :
That race of victors which did realmes appall,*
Ah (vanquish'd by their victories at last)
Are by their too much liberty made thrall,
Since all their strength but down themselves doth cast;
And we who by our birth aym'd at great things,
Of the worlds mistresse mighty minions once,
Who might have labour'd to give lawes to kings,
Lawes from a king, must looke for now with grones :
For, such of Ccesar is the monstrous pride,
That though he domineers even at this houre,
And to his cUents kingdomes. doth divide
With an unlimited tyrannicke pow'r;
Yet of dictator he disdaines the name,
And seekes a tyrants title with the place,
Not for his honour, no, but for our shame,
As onely bent to bragge of our disgrace.
Brut. I thought to see that man (as others are)
Walke re-apparell'd with a private gowne,
As one who had unwillingly made warre,
* " Th' imperious people that did th' earth appall.'"— 1604.
The Tragedy of yulius Ccesar. 251
To stand himselfe, not to cast others downe :
So Silla (though more inhumane then he)
Whilst having all to what his heart aspir'd,
The soveraignty resign'd, and set Rome free,
When expectations date was quite expir'd.
By CcBsars worth we must thinke that he too,
Will render freedome to this captiv'd state,
When first the world hath view'd what he might doe.
His thoughts are generous, as his minde is great.
Though insolencies oft from courage flow,
His dying fury sparkles but a space :
"High thoughts which Mars inspires, nought can
bring low,
" Till one have us'd the purity of peace.
" Those who by violence to all things tend,
" Scarce can themselves to quietnesse conforme ;
" Their stately carriage, and franke words, offend,
" Whil'st peace cannot comport with warres rude forme,"
I hope that Casar setling civill broyles,
When worne by custome from intestine rage.
Will strive to mitigate his countries toyles.
And all those flames which burn'd his brest, asswage.
Cass. Thus, of his course you by your owne con-
ceiv'd,
As if like thoughts of both did bound the will :
" Ah, honest mindes are with least paine deceiv'd,
" Those who themselves are good, dreame not of ill.
"To sound of some the still unsound device,
" Their inclination must your judgement sway :
" The square of vertue cannot measure vice,
" Nor yet a line when straight, a crooked way."
2/^2 Stirlhis^^s Poems.
<b
So Ccesar rising may usurpe the state,
He cares not by what force, nor by what sleight :
" O ! one may soone deceive men, and grow great,
" Who leaves religion, honesty and right."
When as the senators (no more tlieir owne)
Came to that tyrant whom ambition bhndes,
And by high honours shew'd how they had showne
To gratifie his greatnesse, gratefull mindes ;
He (in a chayre imperiously plac'd,)
Not daign'd to rise, nor bow in any sort,
As both of them had but their due embrac'd,
When he a haughty, they a humble port.
But if he thus, ere we be thoroughly thrall'd.
Dare so disdainefuUy such great men use,
When in a regall throne by us enstall'd.
Then will he breake that which he now doth bruise.
Was he not first who ever yet began
To violate the sacred tribunes place.
And punish'd them for punishing a man
Who had transgress'd the lawes in time of peace?
The lawes which doe of death all guilty hold.
Whose actions seeme to tyranny inclin'd,
So earnest were our ancestors of old,
To quench a tyrants light before it shin'd :
And shall our Nephewes (heires of bondage) blame
Vs dastard parents who their hopes deceiv'd.
Who saw, who sufif'red, who surviv'd such shame.
Not leaving dead, what we when borne receiv'd?
By Ccesars friends, to an assembly brought,
The senators intend to call him king.
Brut. I'le not be there.
The Tragedy of J^ulius CcEsar. 253
Cass. But what if we be sought
To ayde (as pretors) such a pubhke thing?
Bnii. I will resist that violent decree ;
None oi Romes crowne shall long securely boast:
For, ere that I live thrall'd, i'le first dye free,
" What can be kept when liberty is losti "
Cass, O ! with what joy I swallow up those words,
Words worthy of thy worth, and of thy name :
But {Brufus) doe not feare, this cause affords
In danger many, but few mates in fame ;
When Anthony proud Casars image crown'd,
By silent sorrow all the people told
In what a depth of woes their thoughts were drown'd,
That bondage-bragging comet to behold.
What doe those scroules throwne in thy chaire import:
Which, what thou art, to brave thy courage, brings?
Be those the fancies of the vulgar sort]
No, none but noble mindes dreame of great things?
Of other pretors people looke for showes,
And distributions whose remembrance dyes.
Whilst bloudy fencers fall with mutuall blowes,
And Africkes monsters doe amaze their eyes;
But from thy hands they liberty attend,
(By birthright due) the glory of thy race.
And bent for thee, their bloud will frankely spend,
So thou succeed in thy great parents place.
He {Rome redeeming) Tarquin did o' rethrow,
Though from his birth obey'd, and without strife ;
A rising tyrant then bring boldly low,
To what extinguish'd was, who would give life.
Brut. I weigh thy words with an afflicted heart,
254 Stirling's Poems.
Which for compassion of my country bleeds :
And would to God that I might onely smart,
So that all others scap'd what mischiefe breeds ;
Then, never man himselfe from death did free,
With a more quiet and contented minde,
Then I would perish, if I both could be
To Ccesar thankefull, to my country kinde :
But though that great mans grace to me enlarg'd,
May chalenge right in my affections store.
Yet must the greatest debt be first discharg'd,
I owe him much, but to my country more.
This in my brest hath great dissension bred :
I C(Esar love, but yet Romes enemy hate.
And as love lives, I could be mov'd to shed
My bloud for Ccesar, Ccesars for the state.
I for my fathers death loath'd Pompey long,
Whilst just disdaine did boyle within my brest :
Yet when he warr'd to venge the common wrong,
I joyn'd with him, because his cause was best.
A minde to raigne if Ccesar now reveale,
I will in time precipitate his end :
Thus (never arm'd but for the common-weale)
I help'd a foe, and now must hurt a friend.
Cass. Lest of his favour thou the poyson prove,
From swallowing of such baites in. time now spare,
" No tyrant (trust me) can intirely love,
" Nor none who for himselfe doth onely care : "
He by this course doth cunningly intend
(Thy vertue slack'd) to undermine thy minde:
Thy well-knowne courage purpos'd to disbend,
Thus (though with silken bonds) he would thee binde ;
The Tragedy of J^iiHus Ccesar. 255
This of each tyrant is the common tread,
To wreake all those in whom most worth he findes;
Or (whilst that terrours tosse his jealous head)
By subtilty to snare the greatest mindes :
As, for the pretor-ship when we did strive,
Then both were held in hope, that so deceiv'd,
Each th' others harmes might study to contrive
Through emulation and disdaine conceiv'd.
Thus subtile Ccesar by such sleights hath toild
To sow dissension, that we both might pause
Of private wrongs, and (by such meanes imbroil'd)
Still courting him, neglect the common cause.
But nought must make us th' one t' another strange,
Who should in time the tyrants course restraine :
Let other men lament, we must revenge,
I scorne to beare a sword, and to complaine.
Brut. Though Casar (now) I must conspire thy fall.
My heart to thee yet never harbour'd hate;
But (pardon me) who ever make it thrall,
From bondage Bnitus must redeeme the state.
Of this my course what ever others judge,
Here, I protest it is for good design'd;
My thoughts are guilty of no private grudge,
For, reason and not fury moves my minde;
Nor doth ambition now enflame my brest,
With a prodigious appetite to raigne.
That when I have made Ccesar Fluids guest,
I in his roome a monarch may remaine ;
No, if that glory did my fancies charme,
To which (blind-folded) tyrants doe aspire,
I needed not to doe, nor suffer harme,
256 Stirling's Poems.
But with lesse paine might compasse my desire :
For, if I would but temporize a space,
Till time or death diminish Ccesars might,
He thinkes that I deserve to have his place,
And I could make my day succeed his night ;
Yet doe I not for glory seeke so much
As to attaine it by my countries shame :
But O ! I would (my zeale to it is such)
That it may scape, incurre a kinde of blame.
Yea, so that I may free with honour'd wounds
My soile that's dearer then my soule to me,
I could my selfe live banish'd from that bounds,
Which at so deare a rate I would set free.
Cas. What man doth breath of Mars his martiall
race.
But will with Brutus sacrifize his bloud,
And (charg'd with armes) ere tyranny take place,
Dare venture all things for his countries good,
Can any judgement be deceiv'd so farre,
But it already clearely may behold.
How that this change Routes greatnesse soon will
marre,
And raze the trophees which she rear'd of old.
Of old in Rome, all those who once had worne
The peace-importing gowne, or war-like shield,
(Of dignities as capable all borne,)
Durst ayme at ought that liberty could yeeld ;
Those in affaires to deale, who would set forth,
Were not discourag'd by their birth, though base;
And poverty could not hold backe true worth,
From having honour both by warre and peace :
The Tragedy of y^ulius Ccesar. 257
Then emulation violently driv'd
All gallant mindes to tempt great actions still ;
In vertues love, who friendly rivals liv'd,
Whilst in their bosomes glory balme did still :
Fabricins first was firom the plow advanc'd,
The rudder of the common-weale to hold,
Yet by no meanes his private wealth enhanc'd,
As rich in vertue still, as poore in gold.
Rude Marlus too, to match red Alars in fame,
Forth from the vulgar drosse his race remov'd.
And loe, of Cicero the ridiculous name,
As famous as the Fabians now hath prov'd.
Each abject minde disdain'd to be obscure,
When still preferment follow'd lofty cares.
And that one might by dangers past, procure
Fame for himselfe, and honour to his heires :
But since that state by Casar is o'return'd.
Whilst all our lives upon ones lippes depend,
Of brests which once with love of glory burn'd.
The soaring thoughts this wholly doth disbend ;
Advancement now doth not attend desert.
But flowes from fancies of a flatt'red minde ;
Which to base hirelings, honour doth impart,
Whilst envy'd worth no safe retreat can finde.
" All proud usurpers most addicted prove,
" To them whom without cause they raise too high,
" As thinking those who stand but by their love,
" To entertaine the same, all meanes must try.
" Where they, whose vertue reapes a due reward,
" Not building onely on the givers grace,
" Doe by deserts not gaine so great regard,
VOL. II. s
258 Stirling's Foems.
" Whilst they maintaine, as they obtaine their place.
" And if a worthy man to worke great things,
" Wing'd with a tyrants favour, raise his flight,
" The highest course to him most harme still brings,
" Who till he fall, cannot have leave to light.
" Those who by force would have th' affection mov'd,
" When willingly men hold such gallants deare,
" Doe rage that any should be freely lov'd,
" Whose vertue makes their vice more vile appeare."
The man who now to be preferr'd aspires,
Must by base flattery in a servile forme,
So soothing Ccesar, seale all his desires,
And in some shadow lurke to scape a storme.
A number now of that proud rebels foes,
Who grieve to see the ground whence growes their
griefe,
Would in obscurity entombe their woes,
So waiting, and not working for reliefe.
But we whose lofty mindes disdaine to lowre,
Like them who seeke but their owne safety. thus;
When shall we use high indignations pow'r,
Which (as brave Romans) worthy is of us?
Bnit. Since no indignity you will endure,
I see our mindes doe sympathize in this;
Should we by suff'ring, seek to live secure,
Whose action must amend what is amisse'?
No, no such abject thought must staine our brest,
Whose active thoughts reach further than discourse,
Whilst but like beasts, affecting food and rest,
Where men by reason should direct their course ;
Like those of other parts, not rais'd by strife,
The Tragedy of yulius Ccesar. 259
If Ccesar had been born, or chus'd our prince,
Then those who durst attempt to take his life,
The world of treason justly might convince.
Let still the states which flourish for the time.
By subjects be inviolable thought,
And those (no doubt) commit a monstrous crime,
Who lawfuU soveraignty prophane in ought :
And we must thinke (though now thus brought to
bow)
The senate king; a subject Ccesar is;
The soveraignty whom violating now,
The world must damne, as having done amisse.
We will (deare Cassius) for our countries sake,
(Whatever follow) give, or suffer death.
And let us now advise what course to take,
Whilst nought but th' ayre can beare away our breath.
Cass. I thinke this matter needs not many words,
Since but one deed can bound the common shame ;
In Ccesar' s body we must sheath our swords.
And by his death our liberty reclaime;
But since his fortune did confound them all.
Who in the fields to match him did bearin :
Whilst he by thousands made their bands to fall.
With hoary legions alvvayes us'd to winne :
As Pompeys, Scipids, and Petreius ghosts,
In lightlesse shades can by experience tell,
Who after fatall proofes of num'rous hoasts,
All famous (though in fortunately, fell :)
And since (provided for the Parthian warre)
His armie arm'd attends on his decree.
Where we (sequestred from such forces farre)
26o Stirlim^s Poems
<b
Would (if suspected) soone prevented be :
With some few friends whom all things to assay,
A love to us, or to their country bindes,
We to his wreake must walke another way,
Whilst, ere our tongues, our hands doe tell our mindes:
Now when most high, and therefore hated most,
The gathered senate seeks to make him king.
We must goe give the blow before we boast.
And him to death, Rome out of bondage bring.
Brut. In all this course I onely one thing blame,
That we should steale, what we may justly take,
By cloathing honour with a cloake of shame,
Which may our cause (though good) more odious
make.
O ! I could wish with honourable wounds
To match Ro7nes enemy in the battels dust :
No sweeter musicke then the trumpets sounds,
When right and valour keepe a consort just :
Then, free if quicke, else dead, no harme more fear'd,
I alwayes so contentment might attaine;
What tombe to men more glorious can be rear'd.
Then mountaines made of foes whom they have
slain e 'J
But how are my transported thoughts growne such,
That they disdaine a measure to admit?
Whilst (bent not what to doe, but to doe much)
On glories throne, ambition strives to sit.
No, to the state me from my selfe I give,
Free from particulars, as who expose
Fame, life, and all for it, and whilst I live.
So Rome may gaine, I care not what I lose.
The Tragedy of 'J^ulius Ccesar. 261
rie never rest till he for ever rest,
Who gives my country such a cause of griefe ;
And that to doe no forme I will detest,
Nor for my fame endanger Romes reliefe :
But (worthy Cassius) ere we further doe,
Let our friends mindes first well be understood,
Of which I hope to have assistance too,
Who will not venture for his countries good 1
Cass. Now \yhilst my soule rests ravish'd in a trance,
I thinke I see great Rome her courage raise,
Then beat the ayre with songs, th' earth Avith a dance.
And crowne thy vertues with deserved praise. "
ACT III. SCENE II.
Marcus Brutus, Portia.
Brut. My dearest halfe, my comfort, my delight,
Of whom one smyle may sweeten all my sow'rs :
Thou in my bosome us'd to powre thy spright,
And where I was didst spare afflictions pow'rs.
When broils domesticke did disturbe thy rest,
Then still (till finding) faining some reliefe;
Thou with calme words disguis'd a stormy brest,
loyes frankly sharing, and engrossing griefe;
Still tend'ring me with a respective care.
What might oftend, was by no meanes made knowne :
But (with loves colours all things painted faire)
What might have made me glad, was gladly showne.
How com'st thou then thy courage thus to lose,
That thou canst look so sad, and in my sight?
262 Stirlwg's Poems.
Lend me (deare love) a portion of thy woes ;
"A burden (when divided) doth grow hght;"
I see the roses fading in thy face,
The lilies languish, violets take their place.
Poj: Thou hast (dear lord) prevented my designe,
Which was to aske of thee what makes me pale;
\i Phoebus had no light, could Phxbe shine ^
No, with the cause of force th' effects must faile.
The mirrour but gives backe as it receives,
By just resemblance the objected forme,
And what impression the ingraver leaves,
The waxe retains, still to the stamp conforme.
I am the mirrour which reflects thy minde,
As forc'd from thoughts, or flowing from thine eyes;
I take the state in which thy state I finde;
Such is my colour as thy count'nance dyes.
Then how can I rejoyce, whil'st thou art sad.
Whose breast of all thy crosses is the scroule'?
I am still as thou art, if griev'd, or glad,
Thy bodies shadow, th' essence of thy soule :
On that great planet which divides the yeares.
Of fields inferiour as the fruit depends,
And as it vanish doth, or pleas'd appeares.
In th' earths cold bosome, life begins, or ends ;
Sunne of my soule, so I subsist by thee,
Whose shining vertue leades me as a thrall :
From care-bred clouds if that thy face be free,
I rise in joyes, but if thou faint I fall.
Brut. With all my course this count'nance best
accords,
Who as you know, yet never from my birth.
The Tragedy of yulius Cczsar. 263
Light gestures us'd, nor did delight in words,
Whose pleasant straines were onely tun'd to mirth.
My melancholy nature feeds on cares,
Whil'st smothred sorrow by a habite smokes :
" A thoughtfuU breast (when burden'd with affaires)
" Doth make a silent mouth, and speaking looks;"
As for my palenesse, it imports but good :
" The bodies humbling doth exalt the minde,"
Where fatnesse (come from food) but serves for food :
In fattest bodies, leanest sprits we finde.
Ah! since I saw the abhorr'd ThessalicCs bounds.
All drench'd with bloud of senatours and kings,
(As if my soule yet smarted in their wounds)
A secret sorrow often-times me stings :
But since thy father (braving paine with blows)
In the most hideous forme affronted death,
To him my minde a sad remembrance owes,
Which sorrow shall exact whil'st I have breath ;
Yet grieve I that I gave thee cause of griefe,
Who thoughtst some new mishap did me dismay
To such old sores one worst can give reliefe;
But time in end may vveare my woes away.
For. Why shouldst thou so from me thy thoughts
concealed
From thine own soule between whose breasts thou
sleep'st.
To whom (though showne) thou dost them not reveale,
But in thy selfe more inwardly them keep'st?
And thou canst hardly hide thy selfe from me,
Who soone in thee each alteration spie,
I can comment on all that comes from thee :
264 Stirling's Poems.
" True love still looks with a suspitious eye:"
Within our bosome rests not every thought,
Tun'd by a sympathie of mutuall love?
Thou marr'st the musicke if thou change in ought.
Which (when distemper'd) I do quickly prove.
Soule of my soule, unfold what is amisse,
Some great disaster all my thoughts divine,
Whose curiousnesse may be excus'd in this,
Since it concerns thy state, and therefore mine.
Brut. I wonder that thou dost thy frailtie show \
" By nature women have beene curious still,"
And yet till novi' thou never crav'd to know
More then I pleas'd to speak of my free will.
" Nought save the wife a man within the walls,
" Nor ought save him without she should embrace :
" And it not comely is, but th' one enthralls,
" When any sexe usurpes anothers place."
Deare, to their wonted course thy cares inure,
I may have matters which import the state,
Whose op'ning up might my disgrace procure,
Whose weight for femall thoughts would be too great.
Par. I was not {Brutus) match'd with thee, to be
A partner onely of thy boord, and bed :
Each servile whore in those might equall me,
Who but for pleasure or for wealth did wed.
No, Portia spous'd thee minding to remaine
Thy fortunes partner, whether good or ill :
" By loves strict bonds whil'st mutuall duties chaine,
" Two breasts must hold one heart, two souls one
will;
" Those whom just Hyvwi voluntar'ly bindes,
The Tragedy of jl^ulius Ccesar. 265
" Betwixt them should communicate all things,
"But chiefly that which most doth move the mindes;
" Whence either pleasure, or displeasure springs."
If thus thou seek thy sorrows to conceale
Through a disdaine, or a mistrust of me,
Then to the world what way can I reveale,
How great a matter I would do for thee?
And though our sexe too talkative be deem'd,
As those whose tongues import our greatest pow'rs,
For secrets still bad treasurers esteem'd,
Of others greedy, prodigall of ours ;
" Good education may reforme defects,"
And this may leade me to a vertuous life,
(Whil'st such rare patterns generous worth respects)
I Catds daughter am, and Brutus wife.
Yet would I not repose my trust in ought.
Still thinking that thy crosse was great to beare,
Till I my courage to a tryall brought,
Which suffering for thy cause can nothing feare :
For first to try how that I could comport
With Sterne afflictions sprit-enfeebling blows.
Ere I would seek to vex thee in this sort,
To whom my soule a dutious reverence owes.
Loe, here a wound which makes me not to smart,
No, I rejoyce that thus my strength is knowne:
Since thy distresse strikes deeper in my heart,
Thy griefe (lifes joy) makes me neglect mine owne.
Brut Thou must (deare love) that which thou
sought'st receive,
Thy heart so high a saile in stormes still beares,
That thy great courage doth reserve to have
266 Stirlin^^s Poems.
ii
Our enterprise entrusted to thine eares;
This magnanimitie prevailes so farre,
That it my resolution miist controule,
And of my bosome doth the depths unbarre,
To lodge thee in the centre of my soule.
Thou seest in what estate the state now stands,
Of whose strong pillars Ccesar spoyl'd the best,
Whil'st by his owne, preventing others hands,
Our famous father fell amongst the rest.
That proud usurper fondly doth presume
To re-erect detested Tarquins throne.
Thus the worlds mistresse all-commanding Rome,
Must entertaine no minion now but one.
All those brave mindes who mark where he doth tend.
Swell with disdaine, their countries scorne to see ;
And I am one of those who soone intend
(His death or mine procur'd) to be made free.
Par. And without me, canst thou resolve so soone
To try the danger of a doubtfuU strife 1
As if despair'd, and alwayes but undone,
Of me growne weary, weary of thy life.
Yet since thou thus thy rash designe hast showne,
Leave Portia's portion, venter not her part,
Endanger nought but that which is thine owne.
Go where thou lik'st, I will hold still thy heart.
But lest by holding of thy best part back,
The other perish't, aggravate my grones :
Who would be so thought guilty of thy wrack,
Take all thy treasure to the seas at once.
Like Asids monarchs wife, who with short haires,
(Sad signes of bondage) past still where he past,
The Tragedy of 'Julius Casar. 267
To vveare away, or beare away tliy cares,
I'le follow thee, and of thy fortune taste.
These hands which were with mine own bloud inibru'd,
To strike another, may more strength afford,
At least when thou by th' enemies art pursu'd,
I'le set ray selfe betwixt thee and each sword ;
But if too great a priviledge I claime,
Whose actions all should be dispos'd by thee.
Ah! pardon {Brutus) and but onely blame
This streame of passions that transported me.
Brut. Thou ask'st Avhat thou shouldst give, forgive
deare mate,
This ventrous course of mine, which must have place.
Though it make fortune tyrant of our state,
Whose fickle foot-steps vertue grieves to trace.
And wonder not though thus to thee I prove,
Since private duties now all pow'r have lost;
I weigh not glory, profit, pleasure, love,
Nor what respect may now import me most :
So to the land of which I hold my life,
I may performe that worke which I intend.
Let me be call'd unkinde unto my wife:
Yea, worst of all, ingrate unto my friend.
"As an instinct by nature makes us know,
" There are degrees of duty to be past,
" Of which the first unto the gods we owe,
" The next t' our countrey, to our friends the last."
From Rome of old proud tyrants bent to drive,
Did th' author of my race with ardent zeale,
Make those to dye, whom he had made to live,
And spoil'd himselfe to raise the common-wealel
268 Stirling's Poems.
To settle that which Ccesar now o'rethrows,
(Though vertues nurserie, stately whil'st it stood)
He with the tyrant inter-changing blows,
On glories altar offered fame his bloud.
And did that man to crosse the common foe,
Then damne his sonnes to death? and with dry eyes,
And is his speciall heire degener'd so,
In abject bondage that he basely lyes'?
No, his posterity his name not staines,
But even to tread his steps doth fast draw neare;
Yet, of his sprit in us some spark remaines.
Who more then life, our liberty hold deare.
Por. Then prosecute thy course, for I protest,
Though with some griefe, my soule the same approves;
This resolution doth become thy brest,
In honours spheare where heavenly vertue moves :
And do this enterprise no more deferre.
What thee contents, to me contentment brings,
I to my life thy safety do preferre,
But hold thy honour deare above all things.
It would but let the world my weaknesse see.
If I sought my delights, not thy desires,
Though griefe it give, and threaten death to me.
Go follow forth that which thy fame requires.
Though nature, sexe, and education breed,
No power in me, with such a purpose even,
I must lend help to this intended deed.
If vows and pray'rs may penetrate the heaven :
But difficulties huge my fancie findes.
Nought, save the successe, can defray my feare :
" Ah ! fortune alwayes frownes on worthy mindes,
The Tragedy of Julius Ccesar. 269
'' As hating all who trust in ought save her."
Yet I despaire not but thou may'st prevaile,
And by this course to ease my present grones,
I this advantage have which cannot faile:
I'le be a free-mans wife, or else be nones :
For, if all prosper not as we pretend.
And that the heavens Romes bondage to decree,
Straight with thy liberty my life shall end,
Who have no comfort but what comes from thee ;
My father hath me taught what way to dye,
By which if hindred from encountring death,
Some other meanes, I (though more strange) must
try:
For, after Brutus none shall see me breathe.
Brut. Thou for my cause all others earst didst
leave.
But now forsak'st thy selfe to joyne with me,
" Ore generous love no pow'r weake passions have "
Against thy minde thou dost with mine agree.
I'le (since by thee approv'd) securely
And vilipend the dangers of this life :
Heavens make my enterprise to prosper so,
That I may once prove worthy such a wife :
But ah ! of all thy words those grieve me most.
Which bragge me with the dating of thy dayes ;
What? though I in so good a cause were lost,
" None flies the fate which stablish'd for him stayes."
Do not defraud the world of thy rare worth,
But of thy Brutus the remembrance love;
From this faire prison strive not to breake forth.
Till first the fates have forc'd thee to remove.
270 Stirling's Poems.
For. The heavens (I feare) have our confusion
sworn,
Since this ill age can with no good accord,
Thou and my father (ah !) should have beene borne,
When vertue was advanc'd, and vice abhorr'd.
Then, ere the light of vertue was declin'd,
Your worth had reverenc'd beene, not throwne away,
Where now ye both have but in darknesse shin'd,
As starres by night, that had beene sunnes by day:
£}'ut. My treasure, strive to pacific thy brest,
Lest sorrows but sinistrously presage
That which thou would'st not wish, and hope the best,
Though vertue now must act on fortunes stage.
\Exeuni.
Chorus.
Then liberty, of earthly things
What more delights a generous brest ?
Which doth receive,
And can conceive
The matchlesse treasure that it brings ;
It making men securely rest.
As all perceive,
Doth none deceive,
Whil'st from the same true courage springs,
But fear'd for nought, doth what seemes best:
" Then men are men, when they are all their owne,
" Not, but by others badges when made knowne : "
Yet should we not misiDending houres,
A freedome seeke, as oft it falls,
The Tragedy of yulius C^sar. 271
With an intent
But to content
These vaine delights, and appetites of ours;
For, then but made farre greater thralls,
We might repent
As not still pent
In stricter bounds by others pow'rs,
Whil'st feare licentious thoughts appalls :
" Of all the tyrants that the world afibrds,
" Ones ovvne affections are the fiercest lords : "
As libertines those onely live,
Who (from the bands of vice set free)
Vile thoughts cancell.
And would excell
In all that doth true glory give.
From which when as no tyrants be
Them to repell.
And to compell
Their deeds against their thoughts to strive,
They blest are in a high degree :
" For such of fame the scrouls can hardly fill,
" Whose wit is bounded by anothers will."
Our ancestors of old such prov'd,
(Who Rome from Tarquines yoke redeem'd)
They first obtain'd.
And then maintain'd
Their liberty so dearly lov'd;
They from all things which odious seem'd
(Though not constrain'd)
Themselves restrain'd.
And willingly all good approv'd.
272 Stirling's Poems.
Bent to be much, yet well esteem' d;
" And how could such but ayme at some great end,
''Whom liberty did leade, glory attend?"
They leading valorous legions forth,
(Though wanting kings) triumph'd o're kings,
And still aspir'd,
By Mars inspir'd,
To conquer all from south to north ;
Then lending fame their eagles wings,
They all acquir'd
That was requir'd,
To make them rare for rarest things.
The world made witnesse of their worth :
Thus those great mindes who domineer'd o're all,
Did make themselves first free, then others thrall,
But we who hold nought but their name,
From that to which they in times gone
Did high ascend
Must low descend,
And bound their glory with our shame,
Whil'st on an abject tyrants throne,
We (base) attend,
And do intend
Vs for our fortune still to frame,
Not it for us, and all for one :
" As liberty a courage doth impart,
" So bondage doth disbend, else breake the heart,"
Yet, O ! who knows but Ro^ne to grace
Another Brutus may arise?
Who may effect
What we affect.
The Tragedy of J^tdius Ccesar. 273
And Tarquines steps make CcBsar trace ;
Though seeming dangers to despise
He doth suspect
What we expect
Which from his breast hath banish'd peace,
Though fairely he his feares disguise :
" Of tyrants even the wrong, revenge affords,
"All feare but theirs, and they feare all mens
swords."
ACT IV. SCENE I.
Decius Brutus Albmus, Marcus Brutus,
Caius Cassius.
Dec. Deare cosin, Cassius did acquaint mine eares
With a designe which toss'd my minde a space ;
" For, when strange news, a strangers breath first
beares,
" One should not straight to rash reports give place."
I would not then discover what I thought.
Lest he to trap my tongue, a snare had fram'd,
Till first with thee I to conferre was brought,
Whom he for patron of his purpose nam'd.
" One should look well to whom his minde he leaves,
" In dangerous times when tales by walls are told,
" Men make themselves unnecessar'ly slaves,
" Of those to whom their secrets they unfold."
Brut. As Cassius told thee, griev'd for Ronies
distresse,
Which to our shame in bondage doth remaine,
We straight intend what ever we professe,
VOL. II. T
274 Stirling^ s Poems.
With Ccesars bloud to wash away this staine.
Though for this end a few sulificient are,
To whom their vertue courage doth impart,
Yet were we loth to wrong thy worth so farre,
As of such glory to give thee no part.
Since both this cause, yea, and thy name thee binde,
In this adventrous band to be compris'd.
There needs no rhetoricke to raise thy minde,
To do the thing which thou should'st have devis'd.
Dec. I thought no creature should my purpose
know,
But he whose int'rest promis'd mutuall cares :
" Of those to whom one would his secret show,
" No greater pledge of trust then to know theirs;"
As when two meet whil'st mask'd (though most deare
friends)
With them (as strangers) no respect takes place,
But straight when friend-ship one of them pretends.
The other likewise doth un-cloud the face.
So as thou first. Tie now at last be bold :
My brest with the same birth long bigge hath gone,
But I to others durst it not unfold,
Nor yet attempt to compasse it alone ;
But since this course, at which I long did pause.
On such great pillars now so strongly stands.
Whose count'nance may give credit to a cause,
It hath my heart, and it shall have my hands.
Cass. To our designes propitious signes are sent.
So that the gods would give us courage thus :
For, all who ever heard of our intent,
Would willingly engage themselves with us :
The Tragedy of 'y alius Ccesar.
- 1 a
Let other men discourse of vertuous rites,
Ours but by action onely should be shovvne :
" Bare speculation is but for such sprits
" As want of pow'r, or courage keeps unknowne.
" In those who vertue view, when crown'd with deeds,
" Through glories glasse, whose beauties long have
shin'd,
" To be embrac'd an high desire she breeds,
" As load-stones iron, so ravishing the minde : "
What though a number now in darknesse lyes.
Who are too weak for matters of such weight'?
We who are eminent in all mens eyes.
Let us still hold the height of honour straight.
Brut. Earst (that our faction might be strengthned
thus)
I labour'd much to purchase all their pow'rs,
Whom hate to Ctzsar, love to Rome, or us,
Might make imbarke in those great hopes of ours ;
By sicknesse then imprison'd in his bed,
Whil'st I Ligarius spy'd whom paines did pricke,
When I had said with words that anguish bred :
In what a time Ligarius art thou sick?
He answer'd straight as I had physicke brought,
Or that he had imagin'd my design e,
If worthie of thy selfe thou would'st do ought,
Then Brutus I am whole, and wholly thine :
Since he by Ccesar was accus'd of late
For taking Pompey' s part, yet at this houre
He (though absolv'd) doth still the tyrant hate,
Since once endanger'd by his lawlesse pow'r :
Thus (of great sprits exasperating spites)
276 Stirling s Foenis.
Heaven of our course the progresse doth direct,
One inspiration all our soules incites,
Who have advis'dly sworne for one effect.
Dec. So I with Cicero did conferre at length,
Who (I perceive) the present state detests,
And though old age diminish'd hath his strength,
In him a will to free his countrey rests.
Brut. That man whose love still to his countrey
shin'd.
Would willingly the common-wealth restore :
Then he (I know) though he conceals his minde,
None Ccesar more dislikes, nor likes us more :
Yet to his custody I'le not commit
The secrets of our enterprise so soone :
" Men may themselves be often-times not fit
" To do the things which they would wish were done.''
He still was timorous, and, by age growne worse.
Might chance to lay our honour in the dust;
'' All cowards must inconstant be of force,
" With bold designes none fearfuU breasts should
trust."
Then, some of ours would hold their hands still pure,
Who (ere they be suspected) for a space,
Amid'st the tumult may remaine secure.
And with the people mediate our peace :
But who then Tullius fitter for that turne,
Whose eloquence is us'd to charme their eares?
His banishment they in black gownes did mourne,
Whom all do honour for his worth and yeares.
Cass. Those studious wits which have through
dangers gone,
The Tragedy of yHliiis Ccesar. 277
' Would still be out, ere that they enter in :
" Who muse of many things, resolve of none,
" And (thinking of the end) cannot begin.
" The minde which looks no further then the eye,
"And more to nature trusts, then unto art,
" Such doubtfull fortunes fittest is to try :
" A furious actor for a desp'rat part."
We have enow, and of the best degree,
Whose hands unto their hearts, hearts t' us are true,
And if that we seek moe, I feare we be
To hide, too many, if disclos'd, too few;
Let us advise with an industrious care
(Now ere the tyrant intercept our mindes)
The time, the place, the manner, when, and where
We should en-trust our treasure to the windes ;
And since our states this doth in danger bring.
Let every point be circumspectly weigh'd,
" A circumstance, or an indifferent thing,
" Doth oft marre all, when not with care conveighd."
Brut. As for the time, none could be wish'd more
fit.
Then is the present to performe our vow.
Since all the people must allow of it,
By recent anguish mov'd extreamely now.
When represented in his triumph past,
Great Catds mangled intrails made them weep,
And desp'rat Scipio whil'st he leap't at last
To seek a sanctuary amidst the deep.
Then all those great men whom in severall parts,
Bent for Romes freedome, Ccesar did o'rethrow.
Did by their pictures pierce the peoples hearts,
278 Stirling's Poems.
And made a piteous (though a pompous) show;
How could they but conceive a just disdaine
To be upbraided in so strange a sort,
Whil'st he who onely by their losse did gaine,
Of their calamitie did make a sport 1
But yet his purpose grieves them most of all,
Since that he strives to be proclaim'd a king :
And not contents himselfe to make us thrall,
But would even all our heires to bondage bring.
Thus whil'st the people are with him displeas'd.
We best may do what to our part belongs :
For, after this they may be best appeas'd,
If, whil'st their wrath doth last, we venge their wrongs;
And (since we nought intend but what is right,
Whil'st from our countrey we remove disgrace)
Let all be acted in the senates sight,
A common cause, and in a common place.
Let those whose guilty thoughts do damne their deeds,
In corners like Minerva's birds abide.
That which our countrey good, us glory breeds,
May by the lights of heaven and earth be try'd.
The senatours by our example mov'd,
Pleas'd with this action which imports them too,
To have the yoke of tyranny remov'd,
May at the least confirme that which we do;
So all the senatours were said of old.
King Ro7miliis in peeces to have torne,
Who then to tyrannize was growne too bold,
And, ere turn'd god, humanitie did scorne.
Dec. Yea, what though Ci^xarwere immortall made,
As Romulus, whose deitie him revives?
The Tragedy of y^ulius Ccesar. 279
I rather as a god adore him dead,
Then as a king obey him whil'st he lives.
Cass. That place indeed, most for our glory makes,
A theater worthy of so great an act.
Where in their sight from whom most pow'r he takes,
We of the tyrant vengeance may exact;
But I must recommend unto your minde,
A course (though strict) of which we must allow,
Lest it o'rethrow all that we have design'd,
Since past recovery, if neglected now :
There is Antoniiis, Ccesars greatest friend,
A man whose nature tyranny affects,
Whom all the souldiers daily do attend,
As one who nought but to command respects;
I feare that he when we have Ccesar slaine.
The grieved faction furnish with a head :
So when we end, we must begin againe
With one who lives worse then the other dead ;
And in my judgement I would thinke it best,
When sacrific'd the proud usurper lyes.
That this seditious enemy of rest
Should fall with him, with whom he first did rise :
Thus, of our liberty we now may lay
A solid ground, which can be shak't by none :
" Those of their purpose who a part delay,
" Two labours have, who might have had but one."
Brut. I cannot {Cassius) condescend to kill
(Thus from the path of justice to decline)
One faultlesse yet, lest after he prove ill.
So to prevent his guiltinesse by mine ;
No, no, that neither honest were, nor just,
28o Stirling's Poems.
'^
Which rigorous forme would but the world affright,
Men by this meane, our meaning might mistrust,
And for a little wrong damne all that's right :
If we do onely kill the common foe,
Our countries zeale must then acquire due praise,
But if (like tyrants) fiercely raging so.
We will be thought that which we raze to raise ;
And where we but intend to aide the state,
Though by endangering what we hold most deare.
If slaying him (as arm'd by private hate)
We to the world all partiall will appeare,
Ah, ah ! we must but too much murder see,
Who without doing ill cannot do good :
And, would the gods, that Rome could be made free
Without the shedding of one drop of bloud !
Then, there is hope that AntJionie in end,
Whil'st first our vertue doth direct the way.
Will (leagu'd with us) the liberty defend.
And (when brought back) will blush, as once astray.
Cass. Well Brutus., I protest against my will,
From this black cloud, what ever tempest fall.
That mercy but most cruelly doth kill.
Which thus saves one, who once may plague us all.
Dec. When CcBsar with the senatours sits downe,
In this your judgements generally accord,
That for affecting wrongfully the crowne,
He lawfully may perish by the sword :
No greater harme can for our course be wrought,
Then by protracting the appointed time.
Lest that, which acted would be vertue thought,
Be (if prevented) constru'd as a crime;
The Tragedy of yulius Ccesar. 281
Can one thing long in many mindes be pent"?
" No, purposes would never be delayd,
" Which judg'd by th' issues fortune doth comment,
" If prosp'ring, reason, treason it betrai'd."
There may amongst our selves some man remaine,
Whom (if afraid) his pardon to procure,
Or (if too greedy) for the hope of gaine,
Time to disclose his consorts may allure.
Then for our recompence we ruine reape,
If ought our course thus made abortive marre.
For, if discovered once, we cannot scape :
" As tyrants eares heare much, their hands reach
farre."
Cass. The brest in which so deep a secret dwels,
Would not be long charg'd with so weighty cares :
For, I conjecture, as their countnance tels.
That many know our mindes, though we not theirs :
Even but of late one, Casca came to see
Who curious was to have our purpose knowne,
And said to him, that which thou had'st from me,
To me by Brutus hath at length been shown.
Then Lcena once came to us in like sort.
And wish'd that our designe might prosper well;
But yet to haste did earnestly exhort.
Since others told what we refus'd to tell.
Whilst strangers rest familiar with our minde,
And ere we them, doe all our purpose spy,
Make forward fast, or we will come behinde :
" Fame (wing'd with breath) doth violently flye."
Brut. Their words but burst from tales uncertaine
forth,
282 Stirling's Poems,
i3
For, whilst considering of their bondage thus,
Of CcBsars tyranny and of our worth.
They thinke this should be done, and done by us.
Such conjurations to confirme of old,
Some drinking others blouds, swore on their swords,
And cursing those who did their course unfold,
Vs'd imprecations, execrable words;
And yet, then this, though voluntar'ly vow'd,
Free from all bonds, save that which vertue bindes,
More constantly no course was ere allow'd,
Till that the end must manifest our mindes.
And since so many frankely keep their faith,
What first intended to accomplish bent,
No doubt in spight of fickle fortunes wrath,
A happy successe shall our soules content.
Might some few Thebans from the Spartans pride,
By divers tyrants deaths redeem their towne?
And one Athenian who his vertue try'd,
By thirty tyrants ruine, get renowne"?
And to the Greekes are we inferiours growne,
That where they have so many tyrants spoil'd,
There cannot one be by us all o'rethrowne,
Whose state yet staggering may be soon imbroil'd \
I am resolv'd, and with my thoughts decree.
What ever chance to come, or sweet, or sowre,
I shall my soile from tyranny set free,
Or then my selfe free from the tyrants pow'r.
Dec. By Lepidiis invited this last night,
Whilst Ccesar went to suppe, and I with him,
Of all deaths shapes to talke, we tooke delight,
So at the table to beguile the time :
The Tragedy of Julius Ccesar. 283
And whilst our judgements all about were try'd,
Straight CcBsar, (as transported) to the rest,
With a most sudden exclamation cry'd :
O ! of all deaths, unlook'd for death is best :
It from our selves doth steale our selves so fast,
That even the minde no fearefuU forme can see.
Then is the paine ere apprehended past;
" Sowre things ere tasted, would first swallowed be."
The threatned destiny thus he divin'd :
(It would appeare) divinely then inspir'd;
For, now I hope that he shall shortly finde
That forme of death which he himselfe desir.'d.
Cass. Whilst of our band the fury flames most hot,
And that their will to end this worke is such.
Lest Ccesars absence disappoint the plot,
Which would of some abate the courage much ;
It {Decius) were exceedingly well done,
That to his lodging you addrest your way,
Him by all meanes to further forward soone,
Lest him some sudden chance may move to stay.
Dec. There, where the senate minds this day to sit,
Stand all prepar'd, not fearing danger more.
And for the sacrifice when all is fit,
rie bring an offring hallowed of before. \Exeunt.
ACT IV. SCENE II.
Ccesar, Calphurnia, Decius Brutus.
CcRS. Long-lookt-for time that should the glory yeeld,
Which I through Neptunes trustlesse raign have sought ;
284 Stirling's Poems.
And through the dust of many a bloudy field,
As by all dangers worthy to be bought.
Thy comming now those lowring shadowes cleares.
My hopes horizon which did long o're-cast;
This day defrayes the toyles of many yeares,
And brings the harvest of my labours past.
The senators a messenger have sent
Most earnestly entreating me to come
And heare my selfe discern'd by their consent
To weare a crowne o're all, excepting Rome;
Thus, they devise conditions at this houre
For him, of whom Mars hath made them the prey,
As subjects limit could their soveraignes pow'r.
Who must have minde of nought but to obey;
But having pacifi'd those present things,
I minde to leade my valorous legions forth
To th' orientall realmes (adoring kings)
Who can afford all that is due to worth.
Then swimme my thoughts in th' ocean of delight.
Whilst on the pillow of soft praise repos'd ;
Those eyes to gaze upon my glories light,
AVhich envy open'd, admiration clos'd.
Ca/. Ah, though your fancies great contentment
finde.
Whilst thus the world your vertue doth advance;
Yet a prepos'trous terrour stings my minde,
And braggs me with I know not what mischance;
My wavering hopes o're-ballanc'd are with feares,
Which to my soule sinistrous signes impart;
And om'nous rumours so assault mine eares.
That they almost make breaches in my heart.
The Tragedy of "yiiUus Cicsar. 285
C(Es. What? do foil'd Pojiipeys floting followers
strive
I'o recollect their ruines from the dust?
Dare they who onely by my tollerance live,
More to their strength, then to my favour trust \
Or do'st thou feare his sonnes dejected state,
Who steales infamous flying through those flouds,
Which his great father, Admirall of late,
Did plant with ships, till all their waves seem'd
woods;
Or make his brothers death his hopes grow more,
Since (by them straited in a bloudy strife)
I who in all the battels given before,
Did fight for victory, then, fought for life ;
Or, whilst to march to Parthia I prepare,
Doth a suspition thus afflict thy sprite :
By Crasstis fortune mov'd, who perish'd there,
The scorned prey of the barbarians spight?
To those with Cassius who from thence retir'd,
Amongst my bands a place I will allow.
Whose foes shall finde (bad fate at last expir'd,)
Though the same sheep, another sheep-heard now ;
Doe not imagine matters to bemone.
For, whilst there stands a world, can Ccesar fall?
Though thousand thousands were conjur'd in one,
I, and my fortune might confound them all.
Cat. No, none of those my minde doth miscontent,
Who undisguis'd still like themselves remaine :
Vnlook't-for harmes are hardest to prevent :
There is no guard against concealed disdaine ;
But, in whom furthur can your trust repose,
286 Stirling s Poems.
Whom danger now o're all by all attends?
" Where private men but onely feare their foes.
" Oft kings have greatest cause to feare their friends;
" For, since most trusted, fittest to betray,
" Those unto whom ones favour force affords,
" Most dangerous ambushes with ease may lay,
" Whilst falsest hearts are hid with fairest words. "
And some report (though privately) yet plaine,
That Dolabella and Antoniiis now,
By your destruction doe intend to gaine
That which you keep by making all men bow.
Cczs. No corpulent sanguinians make me feare.
Who with more paine their beards then th' en'mies
strike,
And doe themselves like th' Epicurians beare
To Bacchus, Mars, and Venus borne alike ;
Their hearts doe alwaies in their mouthes remaine,
As streames whose murmuring showes their course
not deep,
Then still they love to sport, though grosse, and
plaine,
And never dream e of ought but when they sleep :
But those high sprites who hold their bodies downe,
Whose visage leane their restlesse thoughts records :
Whilst they their cares depth in their bosomes drown,
I feare their silence more then th' others words.
Thus Cassius now and Brutus seeme to hold
Some great thing in their minde, whose fire oft
smoaks ;
What Brutus would, he vehemently would ;
Thinke what they list, I like not their pale lookes :
The Tragedy of ytdius Ccesar. 287
Yet with their worth this cannot well agree,
In whom bright vertue seemes so much to shine :
Can those who have receiv'd their lives from me,
Prove so ingrate, that they doe thirst for mine?
Dare Cassius (match' d with me) new hopes conceive
At th' Hellespojit, who fortune durst not try,
And (like a dastard) did his gallies leave,
In all (save courage) though more strong than I?
Shall I suspect that Brutus seekes my bloud,
Whose safety still I tendred with such care.
Who when the heavens from mortals me seclude,
Is onely worthy to be Casars heire?
Cal. "The corners of the heart are hard to know;"
Though of those two the world the best doth deeme,
Yet doe not trust too much to th' outward show,
For, men may differ much from what they seeme.
" None oft more fierce then those who look most milde,
" Impiety sometime appeares devout,"
And (that the world the more may be beguil'd)
" Even vice can cloath it selfe with vertues cote."
Though it would seem (all hatred now laid downe)
They on your favour onely should depend.
Yet no respect can counterpoise a crowne :
" Ambition hath no bounds, nor greed no end."
Mov'd by vindictive hate, or emulous pride.
Since some your person, some your place pursue :
All threatned dangers to prevent provide,
And use for safety, what to state is due.
Cces. No armour is that can hold treason out.
Cal. To fright your foes with bands be back'cl
about.
288 Stirling's Poems.
Cc£s. So dastard tyrants strive themselves to beare.
Cal. It better is to give, then to take feare.
CcBS. No guard more strong then is the peoples
love.
Cal. But nought in th' earth doth more inconstant
prove.
CcES. Guards (shewing feare) to charge me men
might tempt.
Cal. Guards would put them from hope, you from
contempt.
C(zs. My brest from terrour hath been alwaies cleare.
Cal. When one least feares, oft danger lurks most
neare.
Cas. I rather dye then feare : at last life goes.
Cal. Yet, death must grieve, when forc'd by vaunting
foes,
Ct^s. I will not crosse my present pleasures so,
By apprehending what may chance to come,
This world affords but too much cause for woe ;
And sorrowes still must harbour'd be by some.
By joyes in time we must embrace reliefe,
That when they end, we in some measure may
By their remembrance mitigate the griefe
Which still attends all those on th' earth that stay.
I thinke the senate is assembled now,
And for my comming doth begin to gaze,
Let me condignely once adorne my brow,
And feast mine eares by drinking in due praise.
Cal. Stay, stay (deare lord) retire thy steps againe,
And spare a space to prorogate whole yeares ;
Let not this ominous day begin thy raigne,
The Tragedy of yulius CcEsar. 289
Which fatall and unfortunate appeares.
An astrologian through the world renown'd,
Thy horoscopes just calculation layes,
And doth affirme (as he by signes hath found)
That Marches Ides doe bragge to bound thy dayes;
Walke not abroad where harmes may be receiv'd
(By great necessity since no way forc'd)
For (though his judgement may be farre deceiv'd)
" In things that touch thy life, suspect the worst."
Cces. Whilst I reform'd the calendar by fits,
Which did confound the order of the yeare;
I waded through the depths of all their wits,
Who of the starres the mysteries would cleare.
Those pregnant sprites who walke betwixt the poles,
And lodge at all the zodiackes severall signes,
Doe reade strange wonders wrapt in th' azure scroules.
Of which our deeds are words, our lives are lines.
By speculation of superiour pow'rs,
Some natures secrets curious are to know,
As how celestiall bodies rule o're ours.
And what their influence doth worke below.
Yea, they sometime may brave conjectures make
Of those whose parts they by their birth doe prove,
Since naturally all inclination take
From planets then predominant above;
And yet no certainty can so be had,
Some vertuously against their starres have striv'd,
As Socrates, who grew (though borne but bad)
The most accomplish'd man that ever liv'd.
But of the houre ordain'd to close our lights,
No earth-clog'd soule can to the knowledge come;
VOL. II. u
290 St iri big's Poems.
For, O ! the destinies farre from our sights,
In clouds of darknesse have involv'd our doome!
And some but onely guesse at great mens falls.
By bearded comets, and prodigious starres,
Whose sight-distracting shape the world appalls,
As still denouncing terrour, death, or warres.
The time uncertaine is of certaine death,
And that fantasticke man farre past his bounds :
" With doubt and reverence they should manage
breath,
" Who will divine upon conjectur'd grounds."
Cal. But this all day hath prey'd upon my heart,
And from the same of cares a tribute claim'd;
Doe not despise that which I must impart,
Though but a dreame, and by a woman dream'd.
I thought (alas) the thought yet wounds my breast.
Then whilst we both (as those whom Morpheus weds)
Lay softly buried (with a pleasant rest)
I in thy bosome, thou within the beds :
Then from my soule strange terrours did with-draw
Th' expected peace by apprehended harmes;
For, I imagin'd, no, no doubt I saw,
And did embrace thee bloudy in mine armes.
Thus whilst my soule by sorrowes was surcharg'd,
Of which huge weight it yet some burden beares,
I big with griefe, two elements enlarg'd,
Th' ayre with my sighes, the water with my teares.
Cces. That which I heard, with thy report accords,
Whilst thou all seem'd dissolved in griefe at once,
A heavy murmuring made with mangled words.
Was interrupted oft by tragicke grones.
The Tragedy of J^ alius Ctesar. 291
The memory, but not the judgement frames
Those raving fancies which disturbe the braine,
Whilst night dissolves all dayes designes in dreames,
" The senses sleeping, soules would stirre in vame."
From superstitious feares this care proceeds,
Which still would watch o're that which thou dost love,
And in thy minde thus melancholy breeds,
Which doth those strange imaginations move.
Cell. Ah, in so light account leave off to hold
Those fatall warnings, which our mindes should leade
To search darke matters, till we may unfold
What dangers huge doe hang above thy head.
With sacred garlands he who things divines,
By th' intrails of the consecrated beast.
Doth in the offring see sinistrous signes.
And I entreat thee doe not hence make haste.
Cces. When I in Spaine against yong Pompey went,
Thus, the diviner threatned me before,
Yet did I prosecute my first intent,
Which with new lawrels did my browes decore.
Cal. And yet you hardly there (as I doe heare)
From danger (farre engag'd) redeem'd your life;
But tokens now more monstrous doe appeare.
And I suspect farre worse then open strife.
C(2s. Lest I too much seeme wedded to my will,
(As others counsels scorning to allow)
With jealous eyes I'le search about me still,
And even mistrust my selfe to trust thee now;
Yet if I stay, the senators deceiv'd.
May my beginning straight begin to hate;
So might I perish, seeking to be sav'd :
292 Stirling's Poevis.
" By flying it, some fall upon their fate."
But here one comes who can resolve me much,
With whom I use to weigh affaires of weight ;
Whence com'st thou Dccius, that thy haste is such?
Is ought occurr'd that craves our knowledge straight?
Dec. I come to tell you how the senate stayes,
Till that your presence blesse their longing sight.
And to conclude what is propos'd, delayes.
Since your applause can onely make it right :
They your contentment to procure intend,
And all their thoughts seeme at one object bent,
Save that amongst themselves they doe contend,
Who you to please, shall rarest wayes invent.
C(ss. Then that, no treasure to my soule more deare.
Which to enjoy from hence I long to part.
But yet I know not what arrests me here,
And makes my feet rebellious to my heart;
From thee (deare friend) I never doe conceale
The weightiest secrets that concerne me most;
And at this time I likewise must reveale,
How heavens by signes me with destruction boast :
To superstition though not earst inclin'd,
My wife by dreames doth now presage my fall.
It a sooth-sayer likewise hath divin'd:
The sacrifice prodigious seemes to all,
So that till this disastrous day be gone,
All company I purpose to disuse.
And to the senators will send some one.
To paint my absence with a faire excuse.
Dec. Doe not repose on superstitious signes.
You to suspect the people thus to bring.
The Tragedy of 'y id ins Ccesar. 293
Whilst soveraigne-like you limit their designes,
Seeme not a tyrant, seeking to be king :
How can we satisfie the worlds conceit,
Whose tongue still in all eares your praise proclaimes '{
Or shall we bid them leave to deale in state,
Till that Calphurnia first have better dreames %
If that this day you private would remaine,
The senate to dissolve your selfe must goe,
And then incontinent come backe againe,
When you have showne to it some reverence so.
Cces. With thy advise (as pow'rfull) I agree,
The senatours shall have no cause to grudge :
A little space, all part a space from me,
And I'le be shortly ready to dislodge.
Ccesar alone.
Whence comes this huge and admirable change,
That in my brest hath uncouth thoughts infus'd,
Doth th' earth then earst yeeld terrors now more
strange,
Or but my minde lesse courage then it us'd 1
What spightfuU fate against my state contends,
That I must now to fancied plagues give place,
By foes not mov'd, afraid amongst my friends,
By warre secure, endanger'd but by peace ?
When strongest troopes to fight with me did come.
Then did my heart the highest hopes conceive,
I warr'd with many, many to o'recome ;
The greatest battels, greatest glory gave.
As th' enemies numbers, still my courage grew ;
2 94 Stirlhig^s Poems.
Through depths of dangers oft times have I past,
Yet never did those boundlesse labours rue,
To have none greater first, none equall last:
When bragging Gauls mov'd by their neighbours fals,
Had from the fields, no, from my fury fled ;
And hid themselves with armes, their armes with
walles,
Whilst I my troupes before Alexia led ;
Then, though there swarm'd forth from the bounds
about,
Huge hosts to compasse me enflam'd with wrath,
That the besiegers (all besieg'd about,)
Seem'd drawne by danger in the nets of death.
No way I who could with the pride comport.
That those barbarians by vaine vaunts bewray'd.
Did re-assault th' assaulters in such sort,
That words by wounds, wounds were by death re-
pay'd.
Of those within the towne (to ease their toyles)
Till quite o'recom'd, their comming was not knowne,
Who straight (upbraided by the barb'rous spoiles)
Did yeeld themselves, as if with them o'rethrowne.
By liquid legions whilst with tumid boasts
The trident-bearer striv'd my spoiles to beare;
Though threatned thrise amid'st his humid hosts,
Still courage scorn'd to thinke of abject feare.
I us'd those pyrats who had me deceiv'd,
Still as my servants (thundring threatnings forth)
And gave them money more then they had crav'd,
Whose ignorance too meanely priz'd my worth :
Yet gathering ships, I stay'd not long a shore,
The Tragedy of Julius Ccesar. 295
But trac'd their steps, though they not pav'd the way,
And taking them (as I had vow'd before)
By nought but death their ransome would defray;
Then when (without th' advice of others mindes)
Through hoary waves I past alone by night,
Whilst in a little barke against great windes,
That even the pilot look't not for the light;
The waves themselves asunder seem'd to teare,
That in their gravell I might chuse a grave,
And crystall arches did above me reare,
That I a tombe fit for my state might have.
Whilst dangers seem'd to merit Ccssars death,
As Neptune rais'd his head, I rais'd my heart;
And shewing what I was with constant breath,
To weake Amiclas courage did impart.
Was I not once amid'st large Nilus flote.
Whilst me to wound, a wood of darts did flye.
Yet swim'd so carelesse of my enemies shot,
That in my hand I held some papers dry"?
With open dangers thus in every place,
I (whilst oft compass'd both by sea and land,)
Did undismay'd looke horrour in the face.
As borne for nought, but onely to command.
But since a world of victories have filled
With trophees temples, theaters with my praise,
That bath'd with balme which glories bayes had
still'd,
With friends in peace, I look'd to spend my dayes;
The chambers musicke now afrights me more,
Then trumpets sounds when marching in the field,
And gowns (though signes of peace) worse then before
296 Stirling'' s Poems.
The pompous splendour of a flaming shield.
Those thoughts of late which had disdain'd to doubt,
Though I alone had march'd amongst my foes,
Loe, whilst amongst my friends well back'd about,
They, then the eyes more danger now disclose.
If any chance, to meet a number brings,
I insurrections feare from common wrath,
Yea, if two talke a part of private things,
Straight I suspect that they conspire my death;
When sudden rumours rise from vulgar smoake ;
(Whilst th' inward motions roule my restlesse eyes,)
I at each corner for an ambush looke.
And start astonish'd, lest some tumult rise.
When light (first lightning) doth encourage toyles,
I still despaire to re-enjoy the night,
And when mine eyes th' umbragious darkenesse spoils,
I never looke to grace them with the light;
For, when the light with shadowes makes a change,
To flatter mortals with a dreame of rest,
What ugly gorgons, what chimera's strange
Doe bragge the little world within my brest 1
The time which should appease impetuous cares,
Doth double mine, who view most when quite blinde;
I apprehend huge horrours and despaires.
Whilst th' outward objects not distract my minde:
Now of my conquests what delight remaines"?
Where is the peace pursu'd by many a strife'?
Have I but taken paine to purchase painesi
And sought by dangers for a dangerous life?
Is this the period of aspiring pow'rs,
In promis'd calmes to be most plagu'd by stormes.'
The Tragedy of yulius Ccesar. 297
Lurke poys'nous serpents under fairest flow'rs,
And hellish furies under heavenly formes]
It will not grieve my ghost below to goe,
If circumvented in the warres I end,
As bold Marcellus by Romes greatest foe,
Who gave his ashes honour as a friend;
Or like t' Epammondas in his death,
O ! would the gods I had amidst alarmes,
When charg'd with recent spoiles, been spoil'd of
breath,
Whilst I to Pluto might have march'd in armes;
Yet, life to end, which nought but toyles affords,
I'le pay to death the tribute that it owes ;
Straight with my bloud, let some come dye their
swords.
Whose naked brest encounter shall their blowes :
But ah ! how have the furies seaz'd my brest,
And poyson'd thus my sprite with desp'rate rage I
By horrid serpents whilst quite barr'd from rest,
No kinde of comfort can my cares asswage ;
No, Atropos, yet spare my threed a space,
That to the stygian streames ere walking downe,
I may of honour have the highest place,
And if I fall, yet fall beneath a crovvne.
Whilst eares are bended to applauding shouts,
My thoughts divided are within my brest.
And my toss'd soule doth flote between two doubts.
Yet knowes not on what ground to build her rest.
The senators, they have this day design'd.
To shew the world how they esteeme my worth;
Yet doe portentuous signes perturbe my minde,
298 Stirling's Poems.
By which the heavens would point my danger forth :
The gods from me with indignation gone,
In every thing charact'red have my death :
And must both heaven and earth conspire in one,
To quench a Httle sparke of smoaking breath?
My safety would that I should stay within
Till this disastrous day gave darkenesse place.
But daring honour would have me begin
To reape the glory of my painefuU race.
And rie advance in spight of threatned broyles,
For, though the fates accomplish what we dreame,
When onely death hath triumph'd of my spoyles,
I then (though breathlesse) still shall breathe with
fame. [Exit.
Chorus.
What fury thus doth fill the brest
With a prodigious rash desire,
Which banishing their soules from rest,
Doth make them live who high aspire,
(Whilst it within their bosome boyles)
As salamanders in the fire;
Or like to serpents changing. spoyles,
Their wither'd beauties to renew?
Like vipers with unnaturall toyles.
Of such the thoughts themselves pursue,
Who for all lines their lives doe square,
Whilst like caraelions changing hue,
They onely feed on empty ayre :
" To passe ambition greatest matters brings.
The Tragedy of J^idius Ccesar. 299
" And (save contentment) can attaine all things."
This active passion doth disdaine
To match with any vulgar minde,
As in base breasts where terrours raigne,
Too great a guest to be confin'd ;
It doth but lofty thoughts frequent,
Where it a spatious field may finde,
It selfe with honour to content,
Where reverenc'd fame doth lowdest sound;
Those for great things by courage bent,
(Farre lifted from this lumpish round)
Would in the sphere of glory move,
Whilst lofty thoughts which nought can binde,
All rivals live in vertues love;
" On abject preyes as th' eagles never light,
" Ambition poysons but the greatest sprite,"
And of this restlesse vultures brood,
(If not become too great a flame)
A little sparke doth sometime good.
Which makes great mindes (affecting fame)
To suffer still all kinde of paine :
Their fortune at the bloudy game,
Who hazard would for hope of gaine,
Vnlesse first burn'd by thirst of praised
The learned to a higher straine,
Their wits by emulation raise,
As those who hold applauses deare;
And what great minde at which men gaze,
It selfe can of ambition cleare.
Which is when valu'd at the highest price,
A generous errour, an heroicke vice 1
300 Stirling's Poems.
But when this frenzie flaming bright,
Doth so the soules of some surprise,
That they can taste of no deHght,
But what from soveraignty doth rise,
Then, huge affliction it affords;
Such must (themselves so to disguise)
Prove prodigall of courteous words,
Give much to some, and promise all,
Then humble seeme to be made lords.
Yea, being thus to many thrall.
Must words impart, if not support;
To those who crush' d by fortune fall;
And grieve themselves to please each sort :
" Are not those wretch'd, who o're a dangerous
snare,
" Do hang by hopes, whilst ballanc'd in the ayre;"
Then when they have the port attain'd.
Which was through seas of dangers fought,
They (loe) at last but losse have gain'd,
And by great trouble, trouble bought :
Their mindes are married still with feares.
To bring forth many a jealous thought;
With searching eyes, and watching eares.
To learne that which it grieves to know,
The brest that such a burden beares,
What huge afflictions doe o'rethrowl
Thus each prince is (as all perceive)
No more exalted then brought low,
" Of many lord, of many, slave ;
" That idoU greatnesse which th' earth doth adore,
" Is gotten with great paine, and kept with more :"
The Tragedy of y^ulius Ccesai-. 30 1
He who to this imagin'd good,
Did through his countries bowels tend,
Neglecting friendship, duty, bloud.
And all on which trust can depend.
Or by which love could be conceiv'd,
Doth finde of what he did attend,
His expectations farre deceiv'd ;
For, since suspecting secret snares.
His soule hath still of rest beene reav'd,
Whilst squadrons of tumultuous cares,
Forth from his brest extort deep grones :
Thus Ccesar now of life despaires,
Whose lot his hope exceeded once;
And who can long well keep an ill wonne state ?
" Those perish must by some whom all men hate."
ACT V. SCENE I.
Marcus Brutus, Chorus, A?ito?iius, Caius Cassius,
Marcus Tullius Cicero.
Brut. Are generous Rotnans so degener'd now,
That they from honour have estrang'd their hands]
And, us'd with burdens, do not blush to bow.
Yea (even though broken) shake not off their bands ;
This glorious worke was worthy of your paine,
Which now ye may by others dangers have ;
But what enchaunts you thus, that ye abstaine
That which ye should have taken, to receive?
Where be those inundations of delight,
302 S^if'/ing's Poems.
Which should burst out from thoughts o'reflow'd with
joy,
Whil'st emulous vertue may your mindes incite,
That which we give you bravely to enjoy;
Or quite conform'd unto your former state,
Do still your mindes of servitude allow,
As broken by adversitie of late,
Not capable of better fortune now^
Loe, we who by the tyrants favour stood.
And griev'd but at the yoke which you outrag'd,
Have our advancement, riches, rest, and bloud,
All liberally for liberty engag'd.
C/ior. Thou like thy great progenitour in this,
Hast glory to thy selfe, t' us freedome brought ;
" Then liberty what greater treasure is"?
" Ought with it much, without it much seemes nought :"
But pardon us (heroicke man) though we
To high perfection hardly can aspire.
Though every man cannot a Brutus be,
" What none can imitate, all must admire."
At this strange course (with too much light made blinde)
We our opinions must suspend a space,
" When sudden chances do dismay the minde,
" The iudgement to the passion first gives place."
Ant. What wonder now though this most barbarous
deed
Have with amazement clos'd your judgement in.
Which O (I feare) shall great confusion breed?
When CcBsars toyls did end, Romes did begin :
The most suspitious mindes had not beleev'd,
That Romans reverenc'd for their worth by us.
The Tragedy of J^ulius Ccesar. 303
Would have presum'd to kill, or to have griev'd
An hallow'd body inhumanely thus;
Who would have once but dream'd of such despighf?
What strange hostilitie ! in time of peace
To kill, though not accus'd, against all right,
A sacred man, and in a sacred place?
Cass. If Ccesar as a citizen had liv'd,
And had by law decided every strife,
Then I would grant those treason had contriv'd,
Who went without a law to take his life;
But to pervert the laws, subvert the state,
If all his travels did directly tend,
Then I must say, we did no wrong of late :
"Why should not tyrants make a tragicke end?"
Cho. Since destinies did Ca:sars soule enlarge,
What course can we for his recovery take?
Ah ! th' unrelenting Charons restlesse barge
Stands to transport all o're, but brings none back :
" Of lifes fraile glasse (when broken) with vaine grones,
" What earthly power the ruines can repaire ;
" Or who can gather up, when scattred once,
" Ones bloud from th' earth, or yet his breath from
th'ayre?"
Let us of those who passe oblivions floud
Oblivious be, since hope of help is gone.
And spend our cares where cares may do most good,
Lest Rome waile many, where she wailes but one.
Aiit. Still concord for the common-weale were best,
To reconcile divided thoughts againe :
" Then discord to great townes, no greater pest,"
Whose violence no reverence can restraine.
304 SUf'/ing's Poems.
Yet often-times those warie wits have err'd,
Who would buy wealth and ease at any cost :
" Let honesty to profit be preferr'd,
" And to vile peace warre when it wounds us most;"
But seeking peace, what surety can we finde?
Can faithlesse men give faith, just feares to stay?
" No sacred band impiety can binde,
"Which sweares for trust, seeks trust but to betray;"
What help'd it Cissar, that we all had sworne
His body still from dangers to redeeme '?
" Those who are once perjur'd, hold oaths in scorne?
" All are most franke of what they least esteeme.
Brut None needs in states which are from tyrants
free,
Loath'd execrations to confirme his will,
Where willingly men would with good agree,
And without danger might despise all ill;
All odious oaths by those are onely crav'd,
Whose suit from reason doth a warrant want,
Whil'st who deceive (afifraid to be deceiv'd)
Seek of men thrall'd, what none whil'st free would
grant.
When Ccesar had prevail'd in France and Spaine,
His fortune building on his countries wracke,
(Of liberty a shadow to retaine)
We gave him all that he was bent to take.
The Senate had reserv'd nought but a show
Whose course to it by Ccesar was impos'd.
Who lifted up, by bringing others low,
Of offices, and provinces dispos'd :
Then that our faded hopes might never spring,
The Tragedy of 'Julius Ccesar. 305
When bent to try the Parthians wooden showre,
He for five yeares dispos'd of every thing,
Even in his absence leaving us no pow'r.
O how some aggravate our deed with hate!
Who durst his body wound, or with bloud staine,
Though consecrated by constraint of late.
Yea, but reputed holy, yet prophaine,
And did forget how he (a wondrous case)
The tribuneship did violate with scorne.
Which our fore-fathers (free) in time of peace
Advis'dly had inviolable sworne.
Did he not once appropriate (swolne with wrath)
The publike treasure to his private use?
And to the tribune boldly threatned death,
Who did resist, griev'd at that great abuse.
Twixt Romans and a tyrant what availes
A covenant whil'st right rests trod on thus?
" Who can build further when the ground once fails?"
Could we save him who sought to ruine us?
Cic. So absolutely good no man remaines,
Whose natural! weaknesse may not him o're-come;
" Even vertues dye from vice may take some staines,
" And worthy minds may of grosse faults have some :
" As in fine fruits, or weeds, fat earth abounds,
" Even as the labourers spend, or spaire their paine,
" The greatest sprits (disdaining vulgar bounds)
" Of what they seek the highest height must gaine ;
" They (that bright glory may be so enjoy'd)
" As onely borne to be in action still,
" Had rather be (then idle) ill imploy'd :
" Great sprits must do great good, or then great ill;"
VOL. II. X
3o6 Stirling's Poems.
The worlds chiefe treasure which bright rayes do
arme,
Huge evill procur'd (though onely fram'd for good)
Till that fond youth whom his owne wish did harme,
Was kill'd by fire, and buried in a floud.
By rules of reason whil'st he rightly liv'd,
When lawfully elected by the state,
What glorious deeds by CcEsar were atchiev'd,
Which all the world as wonders must relate?
But when of right he buried all respects,
(As blinde ambition had bewitch' d his minde)
What harme ensu'd, by pitifuU effects,
We at the first, he at the last did finde;
Whil'st like Narcissus with himselfe in love,
He with our bondage banqueted his sight,
And for a while (uncertaine joyes to prove)
With all our woes would sweeten his delight;
How could brave men (with vertuous mindes) as those
Who of their countries weale are jealous still.
But stoutly to all stormes their states expose,
The states destroyer resolute to kill?
But since our freedome flows from CcEsars bloud,
Let us embrace that which too long we lack :
" Peace gives to justice pow'r, it, to all good,
" Where wane breeds wrong, and wrong all kinde of
wracke."
This citie hath experienc'd with great paine.
What guilty troubles rise from civill strife.
Which by her ruines registred remaine,
Since first the Gracchi gave contention life.
When Scilla once, and Marius (mad through pride) ,
The Tragedy of yulius CcBsar. 307
Did strive who should the most tyrannicke prove,
What memorable miseries were try'd,
From Romans mindes no time can e're remove?
Then last by Cczsar, and his sonne in law,
What thousands ghosts to Pluto were dispatch'd ?
Ah ! that the world those hosts divided saw,
Which, joyn'd in one, no world of worlds had match'd :.
Yet with this wit which we have dearly bought,
Let us abhorre all that may breed such broils,
Lest when we have our selves to ruine brought,
In end Barbarians beare away our spoyls.
Cho. Rome to those great men hardly can afiford
A recompence, according to their worth,
Who (by a tyrants o're-throw) have restor'd
The light of liberty which was put forth;
Yet (by due praises with their merits even)
Let us acknowledge their illustrious mindes ;
And to their charge let provinces be given :
" Still vertue grows, when it preferrement findes."
Ant. Those barbarous realms by whose respective
will,
Of Ccesars conquests monuments are showne :
As if they held them highly honour'd still,
Who warr'd with desar though they were o'erthrown,
Can this disgrace by their proud mindes be borne,
Whil'st we dishonour, whom they honour thus ?
And shall we not (whil'st as a tyrant tome)
Give him a tombe, who gave the world to us?
Must his decrees be all reduc'd againe,
And those degraded whom he grac'd of late,
As worthy men unworthily did gaine
3o8 Stirling's Poems.
Their roomes of reputation in the state ]
As if a tyrant we him damne so soone,
And for his murd'rers do rewards devise,
Then what he did, must Ukewise be undone,
For which I feare, a foule confusion rise.
Cho. Ah ! (brave Antonius) sow not seeds of warre,
And if thou alwayes do'st dehght in armes,
The haughty Parthians yet undaunted are,
Which may give thee great praise, and us no harmes.
Detest in time th' abhominable broils,
For which no conquerour to triumph hath com'd,
Whil'st this wretch'd towne (which still some party
spoils)
Must loath the victor, and lament th' o're-com'd :
And shall we still contend against all good.
To make the yoke where we should bound abide?
Must still the commons sacrifize their bloud,
As onely borne to serve the great mens pride?
Ant. Whil'st I the depths of my affection sound.
And reade but th' obligations which I owe,
I finde my selfe by oaths, and duty bound,
All Ccssars foes, or then my selfe t' ore-throw.
But when I weigh what to the state belongs.
The which to plague no passion shall get place.
Then I with griefe digesting private wrongs,
Warre with my selfe to give my countrey peace.
Yet whil'st my thoughts of this last purpose muse,
I altogether dis-assent from this.
That CcBsars fame, or body we abuse.
To deale with tyrants as the custome is.
Lest guilty of ingratitude we seeme.
The Tragedy of y alius Ccesar. 309
(If guerdoning our benefactors thus)
Great Ccesars body from disgrace redeeme,
And let his acts be ratified by us.
Then for the pubhke-weale which makes us pause,
Towards those that have him kill'd t'extend regard,
Let them be pardon'd for their kinsmens cause :
" Remission given for evill is a reward."
Cass. We stand not vex'd like malefactors here,
With a dejected and remorsefuU minde,
So in your presence supplicants t'appeare,
As who themselves of death do guilty finde ;
But looking boldly with a loftie brow,
Through a delight of our designe conceiv'd,
We come to challenge gratefulnesse of you,
That have of us so great a good receiv'd.
But if you will suspend your thoughts a space,
Though not the givers, entertaine the gift;
Do us reject, yet liberty embrace:
To have you free (loe) that was all our drift.
So Rome her ancient liberties enjoy.
Let Brutus and let Cassius banish' st live ;
Thus banishment would breed us greater joy,
Then what at home a tyrants wealth could give.
Though some misconstrue may this course of ours.
By ignorance, or then by hate deceiv'd;
" The truth depends not on opinions pow'rs,
" But is it selfe, how ever misconceiv'd."
Though to acknowledge us, not one would daigne.
Our merit of it selfe is a reward,
" Of doing good none should repent their paine,
" Though they get no reward, nor yet regard."
3IO Stirling's Poems.
I 'le venture yet my fortune in the field,
With every one that Rome to bondage draws;
And as for me, how ever others yeeld,
I 'le nought obey, but reason, and the laws.
Cic. What fools are those who further travell take,
For that which they even past recovery know I
Who can revive the dead, or bring time backl
That can no creature who doth live below.
Great Pompey (now) for whom the world still weeps,
Lyes low, neglected on a barbarous shore;
Selfe-slaughtered Scipio flotes amidst the deeps,
Whom, it may be, sea-monsters do devoure.
Of Libyan wolves grave Cato feasts the wombes,
Whose death, of worth the world defrauded leaves ;
Thus some that did deserve Maiisokan tombes.
Have not a title grav'd upon their graves.
And yet may Ccesar who procur'd their death.
By brave men slaine be buried with his race;
All civill warre quite banish'd with his breath,
Let him now dead, and us alive have peace.
" We should desist our thoughts on things to set,
" Which may harme some, and can give help to none,
" Learne to forget that which we cannot get,
" And let our cares be gone of all things gone.
" Those who would strive all crosses to o're-come,
" To present times must still conforme their course,
" And making way for that which is to come,
" Not medle with things past, but by discourse.
" Let none seek that which doth no good when found;"
Since Ccesar now is dead, how ever dead ;
Let all our griefe go with him to the ground,
The Tragedy of yidius Ccesar. 3 1 1
For, sorrow best becomes a lightlesse shade;
It were the best, that joyn'd in mutuall love,
We physicke for this wounded state prepare :
" Neglecting those who from the world remove,
"All men on earth for earthly things must care."
Cho. O how those great men friendship can pretend,
By soothing others thus with painted windes ;
And seeme to trust, where treason they attend,
Whilst love their mouth, and malice fills their mindes ;
Those but to them poore simple soules appeare,
Whose count' nance doth discover what they thinke,
Who make their words, as is their meaning, cleare,
And from themselves can never seeme to shrinke.
Loe, how Antonius faines to quench all jarres,
And whom he hates with kindnesse doth embrace.
But as he further'd first the former warres,
Some feare he still will prove a foe to peace.
Now where Calphurnia stayes our steppes addresse.
Since by this sudden chance her losse was chiefe.
" All visite should their neighbours in distresse,
" To give some comfort, or to share in griefe."
ACT V. SCENE II.
Calphurnia^ Nwitius, Chorus.
Cal. When darkenesse last imprisoned had myne
eyes,
Such monstrous visions did my heart affright,
That (quite dejected) it as stupid dies
Through terrours then contracted in the night;
312 Stirling's Poems.
A melancholy cloud so dimmes my brest,
That it my mind fit for misfortune makes,
A lodging well dispos'd for such a guest,
Where nought of sorrow but th' impression lackes;
And I imagine every man I see
(My senses so corrupted are by feares)
A herauld to denounce mishaps to me.
Who should infuse confusion in my eares.
O ! there he comes to violate my peace,
In whom the object of my thoughts I see;
Thy message is charactred in thy face,
And by thy lookes directed is to me :
Thy troubled eyes rest rowling for reliefe,
As lately frighted by some uglie sight ;
Thy breath doth pant as if growne big with griefe,
And straight to bring some monstrous birth to light.
Nun. The man of whom the world in doubt remain'd.
If that his minde or fortune was more great,
Whose valour conquer'd, clemencie retain'd
All nations subject to the Romane State;
Fraud harra'd him more then force, friends more then
foes;
Ah! must this sad discourse by me be made?
Cal. Stay, ere thou further goe defray my woes.
How doth my lovel where is my life!
Nuti. Dead.
Cal. Dead?
Cho. Though apprehending horrours in her minde,
Now since she hath a certaintie receiv'd,
She by experience greater griefe doth finde:
" Till borne, the passions cannot be conceav'd."
The Tragedy of yiilius Cccsar. 313
When as a high disaster force affords,
O how that tyrant whom affliction bears,
Barres th' eares from comfort, and the mouth from
words,
And when obdur'd scornes to dissolve in teares!
CaL Ah ! since the lights of that great light are set,
Why doth not darknesse spread it selfe o're all"?
At least what further comfort can I get.
Whose pleasures had no period but his fall?
O would the gods I always might confine
Flames in my brest, and floods within my eyes,
To entertaine so great a griefe as mine,
That thence there might fit furniture arise ;
Yet I disdaine (though by distresse o'rethrowne)
By such externall meanes to seeke reliefe :
" The greatest sorrowes are by silence showne,
" Whilst all the senses are shut up with griefe :"
But miserie doth so tyrannick grow
That it of sighes and teares a tribute claimes ;
" Ah ! when the cup is full, it must o'reflow,
" And fires which burne must offer up some flames;"
Yet though what thou hast sayd my death shall be,
(Since sunke so deeply in a melted heart)
Of my lives death report each point to mee,
For every circumstance that I may smart.
Nun. What fatall warnings did foregoe his end.
Which by his stay to frustrate some did try?
But he who scorn'd excuses to pretend.
Was by the destinies drawne forth to die.
Whilst by the way he chanc'd to meet with one.
Who had his deaths-day nam'd, he to him said :
314 Stirling s Poems.
The Ides of March be come; but yet not gone
The other answer'd, and still constant stayd :
Another brought a letter with great speed,
Which the conspiracie at length did touch,
And gave it CcEsar in his hand to reade,
Protesting that it did import him much.
Yet did he lay it up Avhere still it rests,
As doe the great whom blest the world reputes,
Who (griev'd to be importun'd by requests)
Of simple supplicants neglect the suites :
Or he of it the reading did deferre.
Still troubled by attendants at the gate.
Whilst some to show their credit would conferre,
To flatter some, some something to entreate.
Not onely did the gods by divers signes
Give Ccesar warning of his threatned harmes ;
But did of foes disturbe the rash designes,
And to their troubled thoughts gave strange alarmes -,
A senator who by some words we find,
To the conspirators (though none of theirs)
Had showne himselfe familiar with their minde,
Then chanc'd to deale with Ccesar in affaires.
That sight their soules did with confusion fill,
For, thinking that he told their purpos'd deeds,
They straight themselves, or Ccesar thought to kill :
" A guiltie conscience no accuser needs;"
But marking that he us'd (when taking leave)
A suters gesture when affording thankes,
They of their course did greater hopes conceave,
And rang'd them seven according to their rankes.
Then Ca;sar march'd forth to the fatall place;
The Tragedy of ytdiiis CcEsar. 315
Neere Pompeys theater where the senate was,
Where (when he had remain'd a Htle space)
All the confederats flock'd about.
CaL Alas.
Nun. First for the forme, Metellus Ciniber crav'd
To have his brother from exile restor'd,
Yet with the rest a rude repulse receiv'd.
Whilst it they all too earnestly implor'd :
Bold Cimbcr who in strife with him did stand,
Did strive to cover with his gowne his head :
Then was the first blow given by Cased s hand,
Which on his necke a litle wound but made.
And Ccesar (starting whilst the stroke he spi'd)
By strength from further striking Casca stai'd,
Whilst both the two burst out at once, and cry'd :
He traitour Casea, and he, brother aide;
Then all the rest against him did arise
Like desp'rat men, whose furie force affords,
That Ccesar on no side could set his eyes,
But every looke encountred with some swords ;
Yet, as a lyon (when by nets surpris'd)
Stands strugling still so long as he hath strength,
So C(Esar (as he had their pow'r despis'd)
Did with great rage resist, till at the length
He thus cri'd out (when spying Brutus come)
And thou my sonne ! then griefe did back rebound :
" Nought but unkindnesse Caesar could o'recome,
" That, of all things, doth give the deepest wound."
Cho. "Ah! when unkindnesse is, where love was
thought,
" A tender passion breakes the strongest heart :
3 1 6 Stirling's Poems.
" For, of all those who give offence in ought,
" Men, others hate, but for unkinde men, smart."
Nufi. Ah ! taking then no more delight in light,
As who disdainfullie the world disclaim' d,
Of if from Brutus blow to hold his sight,
As of so great ingratitude asham'd,
He with his gowne when cover'd first o're all,
As one who neither fought, nor wish'd reliefe.
Not wronging majestic, in state did fall,
No sigh consenting to betray his griefe.
Yet (if by chance or force I cannot tell)
Even at the place, where Fompefs statue stood,
(As if to crave him pardon,) Ccesar fell,
That in revenge it might exhaust his blood;
But when his corpes abandon' d quite by breath,
Did fortunes frailties monument remaine.
That all might have like int'rest in his death,
And by the same, looke for like praise or paine :
Then Cassius, Brutus, and the rest began
With that great emperours blood to die their hands ;
" What beast in th' earth more cruel is then man,
"When o're his reason passion once commands'?"
Cal. Whilst brutish Brutus, and proud Cassius thus
Romes greatest captaine under trust deceiv'd.
Where was Antonius (since a friend to us)
That he not lost himselfe, or Ccesar sav'd?
Nun. The whole conspiratours remain'd in doubt.
Had he and Oxat joyn'd, to be undone.
And so caus'd one to talke with him without.
Who fain'd a conference till the fact was done.
Then knowing well in such tumultuous broiles.
The Tragedy of y^ulius Ccesar. 3 1 7
That the first danger alwayes is the worst,
He fled in hast, disguis'd with borrow'd spoiles,
For rage and for disdaine even Hke to burst.
CaL The senatours which were assembled there,
When they beheld that great man brought to end,
What was their part? to what inclin'd their care?
I fear affliction could not finde a friend.
Nun. Of those who in the senate-house did sit
(So sad an object sorrie to behold.
Or fearing what bould hands might more commit)
Each to his house a severall way did hold ;
This act with horrour did confound their sight,
And unawares their judgement did surprise :
" When any hastie harmes un-lookt-for light,
" The resolution hath not time to rise:"
That man on whom the world did once rely,
By all long reverenc'd, and ador'd by some.
None to attend him had but two and I.
Cho. "To what an ebbe may fortunes flowing come?"
Why should men following on the smoake of pride,
Leave certaine ease to seeke a dream'd delight.
Which when they have by many dangers tri'd,
They neither can with safety keepe nor quite?
" The people who by force subdu'd remaine,
" May pitty those by whom opprest they rest ;
" They but one tyrant have, whereas there raigne "
A thousand tyrants in one tyrants brest;
What though great CcEsar once commanded kings.
Whose onely name whole nations did appall?
Yet now (let no man trust in worldly things)
A little earth holds him who held it all.
3 1 8 Stirling's Poems.
Cal. Ah ! had he but beleev'd my faithful! cares,
His state to stablish who have ahvayes striv'd,
Then (scaping this conspiracie of theirs)
He, honour' d still, and I had happy liv'd.
Did I not spend of supplications store,
That he within his house, this day would waste.
As I by dreames advertis'd was before,
Which shew'd what was to come, and now is past;
Whilst the sooth-sayers sacrific'd did finde
A beast without a heart, their altars staine.
By that presage my soule might have divin'd,
That I without my heart would soone remaine;
But all those terrours could no terrour give
To that great minde, whose thoughts too high still
aym'd;
He by his fortune confident did live,
As, if the heavens, for him had all things fram'd;
Yet though he ended have his fatall race,
To bragge for this, let not his murtherers strive :
For, O ! I hope to see within short space.
Him dead ador'd, and them abhorr'd alive.
Though now his name the multitude respects.
Since murdering one who him had held so deare.
Whir St inward thoughts each outward thing reflects,
Some monstrous shape to Brutus must appeare.
lust Nemesis must plague proud Cassius soone.
And make him kill himselfe, from hopes estrang'd ;
Once all the wrongs by foes to Cczsar done,
May by themselves be on themselves reveng'd.
Cho. " Some, soveraigne of the earth, would fortune
prove,
The Tragedy of J^iiliiis Ccesar. 319
"As if, confus'dly, gods did men advance;
" Nought comes to men below, but from above,
" By Providence, not by a staggering chance :
" Though to the cause that last forgoes the end,
" Some attribute the course of every thing,
" That cause, on other causes doth depend,
"Which chain'd 'twixt heaven and earth due ends
forth bring;
" Of those decrees the heavens for us appoint,
" (Who ever them approves, or doth disprove)
" No mortall man can disappoint a point,
" But as they please here moves, or doth remove ;
" We, when once come the worlds vaine pompe to try,
" (Led by the fates) to end our journey haste :
" For, when first borne, we straight begin to dye,
" Lifes first day is a step unto the last.
" And is there ought more swift then dayes, and years,
" Which weare away this breath of ours so soone,
" Whil'st Lachesis to no request gives eares,
" But spinnes the threeds of life till they be done %
" Yet foolish worldlings following that which flies,
" As if they had assurance of their breath,
" To fraile preferrement fondly strive to rise,
" Which (but a burden) weighs them downe to death."
Nim. There's none of us but must remember still.
How that the gods by many a wondrous signe.
Did show (it seem'd) how that against their will.
The destinies would Casafs dayes confine.
A monstrous starre amidst the heaven hath beene,
Still since they first against him did conspire,
The solitary birds at noone were scene,
320 St b- ling's Poems.
And men to walke environ'd all with fire:
What wonder though the heavens at such a time,
Do brave the earth with apparitions strange,
Then whil'st intending such a monstrous crime,
" Unnaturall men make Natures course to change"?"
Cho. Though all such things seeme wonderful! to
some,
They may by reason comprehended be,
For, what, beyond what usuall is, doth come,
The ignorant with wondring eyes do see.
Those bastard starres, not heritours of th'ayre,
Are first conceiv'd below, then borne above,
And when fore-knowing things, sprits take most care,
And by illusion, superstition move.
Yet this, no doubt, a great regard should breed,
When Nature hath brought forth a monstrous birth,
In secret characters where men may reade
The wrath of heaven, and wickednesse of th' earth.
The naturallists, and th' astrologians skill
May oft, encountring, manifest like care :
Since th' one looks back, the other forward still.
One may tell what, the other why things are.
Nun. Shall sorrow through the waves of woes to
saile,
Have still your teares for seas, your sighs for winds ;
To miserie what do base plaints availe 1
A course more high becomes heroicke mindes.
" None are o're-come, save onely those who yeeld,"
From froward fortune though some blows be borne,
Let vertue serve adversity for shield :
" No greater griefe to griefe then th' enemies scorne ; "
The Tragedy of yuUus Ccesar. 321
This makes your foes but laugh to see you weep,
At least these teares but for your selfe bestow,
And not for that great sprit, whose spoyls heavens
keep ;
For, he no doubt, rests deified ere now.
Cal. I onely waile my life, and not his death;
Who now amongst th' immortals doth repose,
And shall so long as I have bloud or breath,
To furnish forth the elements of woes.
I care not who rejoyce, so I lament,
Who do to darknesse dedicate my dayes.
And since the light of my delight is spent.
Shall have in horrour all ApoIIds rayes.
(I will retyre my selfe to waile alone.
As trustie turtles mourning for their mates)
And (my misfortune alwayes bent to mone)
Will spurne at pleasures as empoyson'd baits;
No second guest shall presse great Ccesars bed,
Warm'd by the flames to which he first gave life ;
I thinke there may be greater honour had,
When Cccsars widow, then anothers wife.
This had afforded comfort for my harmes,
If I (ere chanc'd abandon'd thus to be)
Had had a little Ccesar in mine armes,
The living picture of his syre to me.
Yet doth that idoU which my thoughts adore.
With me of late most strictly match'd remaine.
For, where my armes him sometimes held before.
Now in my heart I shall him still retaine.
That (though I may no pretious things impart)
Thy deitie may by me be honour'd oft,
VOL. II. V
Stirling's Poems.
Still offring up my thoughts upon my heart,
My sacred flame shall alwayes mount aloft. \Exeimi.
Chorus.
What fools are those who do repose their trust
On what this masse of misery affords?
And (bragging but of th' excrements of dust)
Of life-lesse treasures labour to be lords :
Which like the sirens songs, or Circes charmes,
With shadows of delight hide certaine harmes.
Ah ! whir St they sport on pleasures ycie grounds,
Oft poyson'd by prosperitie with pride,
A sudden storme their floting joyes confounds.
Whose course is ordred by the eyelesse guide,
Who so inconstantly her selfe doth beare
Th' unhappie men may hope, the happy feare.
The fortunate who bathe in flouds of joyes,
To perish oft amidst their pleasures chance,
And mirthlesse wretches wallowing in annoyes.
Oft by adversitie themselves advance ;
Whil'st fortune bent to mock vaine worldlings cares,
Doth change despaires in hopes, hopes in despaires.
That gallant Grecian whose great wit so soone.
Whom others could not number, did o're-come.
Had he not beene undone, had beene undone,
And if not banish'd, had not had a home;
To him feare courage gave (what wondrous change!
And many doubts are solution strange.
He who told one who then was fortunes childe.
The Tragedy of J^ulius Ccesar. 323
As if with horrour to congeale his bloud :
That Cains Mar ins farre from Rome exil'd,
Wretch'd on the ruines of great Carthage stood ;
Though long both plagu'd by griefe, and by disgrace,
The consul-ship regain'd, and dy'd in peace.
And that great Pompey (all the worlds delight)
Whom of his theater then th' applauses pleas'd,
Whil'st praise-transported eyes endeer'd his sight.
Who by youths toyles should have his age then eas'd,
He by one blow, of fortune lost farre more
Then many battels gayned had before.
Such sudden changes so disturbe the soule,
That still the judgement ballanc'd is by doubt;
But, on a round, what wonder though things roule .'
And since within a circle, turne about?
Whil'st heaven on earth strange alterations brings,
To scorne our confidence in worldly things.
And chanc'd there ever accidents more strange,
Then in these stormy bounds where we remaine ^
One did a sheep-hooke to a scepter change,
The nurceling of a wolfe o're men did raigne ;
A little village grew a mighty towne,
Which whil'st it had no king, held many a crowne.
Then by how many sundry sorts of men,
Hath this great state beene rul'd? though now by none.
Which first obey'd but one, then two, then ten.
Then by degrees return'd to two, and one;
Of which three states, their ruine did abide,
Two by two's lusts, and one by two mens pride.
What revolutions huge have hapned thus,
By secret fates all violently led,
324 Stirling's Poems.
Though seeming but by accident to us,
Yet in the depths of heavenly breasts first bred,
As arguments demonstrative to prove
That weaknesse dwels below, and pow'r above.
Loe, prosprous Casar charged for a space.
Both with strange nations, and his countreys spoyls,
Even when he seem'd by warre to purchase peace.
And roses of sweet rest, from thornes of toils;
Then whil'st his minde and fortune swell'd most high,
Hath beene constrain'd the last distresse to trie.
What warnings large were in a time so short.
Of that darke course which by his death now shines \
It, speechlesse wonders plainly did report.
It, men reveal'd by words, and gods by signes.
Yet by the chaynes of destinies whil'st bound.
He saw the sword, but could not scape the wound.
What curtaine o're our knowledge errour brings.
Now drawn, now open'd, by the heavenly host.
Which makes us sometimes sharpe to see small things,
And yet quite blinde when as we should see most,
That curious braines may rest amaz'd at it.
Whose ignorance makes them presume of wit ;
Then let us live, since all things change below,
When rais'd most high, as those who once may fall.
And hold when by disasters brought more low,
The minde still free, what ever else be thrall :
" Those (lords of fortune) sweeten every state,
" Who can command themselves, though not their
fate."
MISCELLANEOUS PIECES.
SOME VERSES
WRITTEN TO HIS MAJESTIE BY THE AUTHOUR AT THE TIME OF HIS
MAIESTIES FIRST ENTRIE INTO ENGLAND.*
Stay, tragick muse, with those vntimely verses,
With raging accents and with dreadfull sounds,
To draw dead monarkes out of ruin'd herses,
T' affright th' applauding world with bloudie wounds:
Raze all the monuments of horrours past,
T' aduance the publike mirth our treasures wast.
And pardon (olde heroes) for O I finde,
I had no reason to admire your fates :
And with rare guiftes of body and of minde,
Th' vnbounded greatnesse of euill-conquer'd states.
More glorious actes then were achieu'd by you,
Do make your wonders thought no wonders now.
For yee the potentates of former times.
Making your will a right, your force a law :
Staining your conquest with a thousand crimes,
Still raign'd like tyrants, but obey'd for awe :
* This and the next piece are printed at the end of tlie
Monarchkke Tragedies, 1604. According to a notice in Mr.
Hazlitt's valuable Handbook to the Popular. Poetical, and
Drajnatic Literature of Great Britain, 1867, both poems are
preserved in MS. in the Chetham Library.
328 Sihiing's Poems.
And whilst your yoake none willingly would beare,
Dyed oft the sacrifice of wrath and feare.
But this age great with glorie hath brought forth
A matchlesse monarke whom peace highlie raises,
Who as th' vntainted ocean of all worth
As due to him hath swallow'd all your praises.
Whose cleere excellencies long knowne for such,
All men must praise, and none can praise too much.
For that which others hardly could acquire,
With losse of thousands Hues and endlesse paine,
Is heapt on him euen by their owne desire,
That thrist t' enioy the fruites of his blest raigne :
And neuer conquerour gain'd so great a thing,
As those wise subiects gaining such a king.
But what a mightie state is this I see?
A little world that all true worth inherites.
Strong without art, entrench' d within the sea,
Abounding in braue men full of great spirits :
It seemes this ile would boast, and so she may.
To be the soueraigne of the world some day.
O generous lames, the glorie of their parts,
In large dominions equall with the best :
But the most mightie monarke of men's harts,
That euer yet a diadem possest :
Long maist thou line, well lou'd and free from dangers,
The comfort of thine owne, the terrour of strangers.
SOME VERSES
WRITTEN SHORTLY THEREAFTER BY REASON OF AN INUNDATION OF DOUEN
A WATER NEERE VNTO THE AUTHOUR's HOUSE, WHEREVPON HIS
MAIESTIE WAS SOMETIMES WONT TO HAWKE.
What wonder though my melancholious muse,
Whose generous course some lucklesse starre con-
troules :
Her bold attempts to prosecute refuse,
And would faine burie my abortiue scroules.
To what perfection can my lines be rais'd,
Whilst many a crosse would quench my kindling
fires:
Lo for Parnassus by the poets prais'd,
Some sauage mountaines shadow my retires.
No Helicon her treasure here vnlockes,
Of all the sacred band the chiefe refuge :
But dangerous Douen rumbling through the rockes,
Would scorne the raine-bowe with a new deluge.
As Tiber, mindefull of his olde renowne,
Augments his floodes to waile the faire chang'd
place;
330 Stirling's Poems.
And greeu'd to glide through that degener'd towne,
Toyles with his depthes to couer their disgrace.
So doth my Douen rage, greeu'd in hke sort,
While as his wonted honour comes to minde :
To that great prince whilst he afforded sport,
To whom his trident Neptune hath resign' d.
And as the want of waters and of swaines,
Had but begotten to his bankes neglect :
He striues t' encroch vpon the bordering plaines,
Againe by greatnesse to procure respect.
Thus all the creatures of this orphand boundes,
In their own kindes moou'd with the common crosse
With many a monstrous forme all forme confoundes,
To make vs mourne more feelingly our losse.
We must our breastes to baser thoughts inure,
Since we want all that did aduaunce our name :
For in a corner of the world obscure,
We rest vngrac'd without the boundes of fame.
And since our sunne shines in another part,
Liue like th' antipodes depriu'd of light :
Whilst those to whom his beames he doth impart,
Begin their day whilst we begin our night.
This hath discourag'd my high-bended minde,
And still in doale my drouping muse arrayes :
Which if my Phcebus once vpon me shin'd,
Might raise her flight to build amidst his rayes.
TO M. MICHAELL DRAYTON.
Now I perceiue Pithagoras diuinde,
When he that mocked Maxim did maintaine,
That spirits once spoilde, reuested were againe,
Though changde in shape, remaining one in mind ;
These loue sicke princes passionate estates;
Who feehng reades, he cannot but allow,
That Quids soule reuiues in Drayton now,
Still learned in loue, still rich in rare conceits,
This pregnant spirit afifecting further skill,
Oft altring forme, from vulgar wits retirde,
In diuers ideoms mightily admirde,
Did prosecute that sacred study still;
While to a full perfection now attainde,
He sings so sweetly that himselfe is stainde.
William Alexander, Scotus.
From the Commendatory Verses prefixed to Drayton's Heroicall
Epistles. Folio, London, 1611.
Ri sr>3^(^
P
w
B
M
^M
A REPLY TO THE KING.
The following letter and poem (from the folio edition of
Drammond's works, printed at Edinburgh in 1711, liy the
celebrated James Watson) will sufficiently illustrate this poem : —
TO HIS VERY WORTHY FRIEND,
MR. WILLIAM DRUMMOND OF HAWTHORNDEN.
Sir,
I have sent you here a sonnet, which the king made
the last week, moved by the roughness of the season, as you may
perceive by his allusion to Satiiru and yaiiiis meeting. This
forced the other from me. The last day being private with his
majesty, after other things, we fortuned to discourse of English
poetiy, and I told one rule that he did like of exceedingly, which
was this : — 77iaf, to make a good sound, there must still be first a
short syllable, and then a long, tohieh is not long positively of its
self, but comparatively, zvJien it follozveth a shorter; so that one
syllable may be long in one place and short in. another, according
as it is matched; for a syllable seems short when it is as it were
borne dcnvn with a longer. Though this letter would seem idle
to some, yet I know it will prove serious to you, and I seek in
this but to fit your humour to whom I write. You will find
this, by your own observation, better than a man can express it
with words, though few or none have ever remarked it. I have
presently written a number of serious letters ; and, last of all,
have re-created my mind with this, wherewith I end.
Your Brother,
W. ALEXANDER.
Newmarket,
The 4th of February, 161 6.
A SONNET BY KING JAMES VI.
How cruelly these catives do conspire ;
What loathsome love breeds such a baleful band,
Betwixt the cankred king of Crcta land,
That melancholy, old, and angry sire,
And him \\\\o wont to quench debate and ire.
Amongst the Romans, when his ports wei^e clos'd,
But now his double face is still dispos'd.
With Satiirns help, to freeze us at the fire.
The earth o're-covered with a sheet of snow,
Refuses food to fowl, to bird and beast ;
The chilling cold letts every thing to grow.
And surfeits cattel with a starving feast.
Curs'd be that love, and mought continue short
That kills all creatures and doth spoil our sport.
When Britains monarch, in true greatness great,
His councils counsel, did things past unfold.
He (eminent in knowledge as in state)
What might occur oraculously told;
And when far rais'd from this terrestrial round,
He niunbrous notes with meastired fury frames,
Each accent weigh'd, no jarr in sense, or sotmd,
He Phcebus seems, his lines Castalian streams,
This worth (though much we owe) doth more extort :
All honor should, but it constrains to love,
334 Stirling's Poems.
While ravished still above the vulgar sort
He prince, or poet, more than man doth prove :
But all his due who can afford him then,
A god of poets, and a king of men.
This day, design'd to spoil the world of peace,
And accessory to so foul a crime,
Why should it rest in the records of time,
Since stain'd by treason forfeiting the place.
O ! but those err who would it odious make :
This day from danger Britain's monarch sav'd,
That day when first the mischief was conceiv'd;
Let it accurst still clad with clouds look black.
Then happy day, to which by heavens decree
(A consecrated) festual pomp is due;
Long may thy saint (a living martyr) view,
All hearts for love of him to honour thee.
More length we wish, but what thou wantst of light
Shall be by fire extorted from the night.
ON THE DEATH OF MR. JOHN MURRAY.*
Mourn muses, mourn, your greatest gallant dies.
Who still in state did court your sacred train;
Your minion Murray, Albions sweetest swain,
Who soar'd so high, now low neglected lyes.
If of true worth the world had right esteem' d
His lofty thoughts, what bounds could have confined ]
But fortune, feard to match with such a mind,
Where all his due, and not her gift had seem'd.
Fair nymphs, whose brood doth stand with time at
strife.
Dare death presume, heavens darlings thus to da'unt?
To flattering fancies then in vain you vaunt,
That you for ever will prolong a life.
He grac'd your band, and not your bays his brow;
You happy were in him, he not by you.
* In a letter to Drummond of Hawthornden, dated London,
12 April, 1615, he writes:— " Yesterday, Mr. John Murray
died. Eight days ago I wrote a sonnet divining his death,
which you will receive here. The king commended it much,
but thought that I gave him too much praise — at least it was a
generous error. I envy no man, and shall never be a niggard
to any man's worth in that which I can afford. "
ON THE REPORT OF THE DEATH OF
•DRUMMOND OF HAWTHORNDEN.
If that were true which whispered is by Fame,
That Da moil's light no more on earth doth burn,
His patron Phoebus physick would disclaim,
And cloath'd in clouds as erst for Phcdon mourn.
Yea, Fame by this had got so deep a wound,
That scarce she could have power to tell his death.
Her wings cut short; who could her trumpet sound,
Whose blaze of late was nurs'd but by his breath'?
That sp'rit of his, which most with mine was free,
By mutual traffick enterchanging store ;
If chas'd from him, it would have come to me,
Where it so oft familiar was before.
Some secret grief distemp'ring first my mind,
Had (though not knowing) made me feel this loss;
A smypathy had so our souls combin'd,
That such a parting both at once would toss.
On the Death of Driiniino?id of Hawthoriideu. 337
Though such reports to others terror give,
Thy heavenly virtues who did never spy,
I know thou, that canst make the dead to live,
Immortal art, and needs not fear to dye.
VOL. II.
TO HIS WORTHY FRIEND, MASTER
WALTER QUIN.*
I MUST commend the clearenesse of thy mind,
AVhich (still ingenuous) bent true worth to raise.
Though in the grave an object fit will find,
Not flattring living men with questioned praise.
Brave Bernards valour noble Naples sounds;
Which scarce his country venters to proclaime,
But sith his sword prevail'd in forraine bounds,
Their pennes should pay a tribute to his fame.
Lest natives vaunt, let strangers then deale thus :
For I confesse they proove too oft ingrate.
What deeds have smother'd bin, or rob'd from us
By Frenchmen first, by Flemmings now of late]
Where, had all met with such a muse as thine,
Their lightning glory through each age might shine.
* From ' ' The memoiie of the most worthie and renowned
Bernard Smart, Lord D'Aubignie, renewed, whereunto is added
wishes presented to the Prince (Charles I.) at his creation, by
Walter Quin, servant to his highnesse. London, printed by
George Purslow, 1619, 4to. " Quin was teacher of music in the
household of the prince, from which office he enjoyed a salary
of £yi per annum.
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SONNET.
Of known effects, grounds too precisely sought,
Young naturalists oft atheists old doe prove.
And some who naught, save who first moves, can
move,
Scorn mediate means, as wonders still were wrought :
But tempting both, thou dost this difference even,
Divine physician, physical divine :
Who souls and bodies help'st, dost here design
From earth by reason, and by faith from heaven,
With mysteries, which few can reach aright :
How heaven and earth are match'd, and work in man;
Who wise and holy ends, and causes scan.
Loe true philosophy, perfection's height,
For this is all, which we would wish to gaine :
In bodies sound, that minds may sound remaine.
* From Abernethey's Clwistian and Hc'irjenly Treatise, con-
taining Physickefor the Soul. — 1622.
TO HIS DESERVEDLY HONORED FRIEND,
MR. EDWARD ALLANE,*
THE FIRST FOUNDER AND MASTER OF THE COLLEIGE
OF GODS GIFT.
Some greate by bulk or chance, whom fortune blindes,
Where (if it were) trew virtue wold burst forth.
They sense not haveing, can afford no worth,
And by their meanes doe but condemne their myndes.
To honour such I should disgrace my penne.
Who might prove more, I count them lesse then
men.
But thee to praise I dare be bould indeede,
By fortunes strictnesse whilst at first suppress'd,
* From "Memoirs of Edward Alleyn, Founder of Dulwich
College," edited for the Shakespeare Society by Mr. J. P.
Collier. "At about this period (1624), and earlier, Alleyn
appears to have been upon terms of friendship with Sir William
Alexander, the distinguished poet (afterwards Earl of Stirling),
now high in favour with King James. . . . The lines were
probably written some years anterior to the date to which we
are now adverting ; and they sufficiently intelligibly allude to
the profession to which Alleyn had been bred, and in which ' he
far exceeded both ancients and moderns : ' they also notice the
' better state ' to which Alleyn had risen, but justly speak of his
great work of charity as if he had no worldly purpose in com-
mencing and completing it." — y. P. Collier.
Mr. Edward AUane. 34 1
Who at the height of that which thou profess'd
Both ancients, moderns, all didst 'far exceede :
Thus vertue many ways may use hir pow'r —
The bees draw honnie out of evrie flow'r.
And when thy state was to a better chang'd.
That thou enabled wast for doing goode,
To clothe the naked, give the hungrie foode,
As one that was for avarice estrang'd :
Then what was fill thou scorn'd to seeke for more,
Whilst bent to doe what was design'd before.
'to'
Then prosecute this noble course of thyne,
As prince or priest for state, in charge though none,
For acting this brave part, when thou art gone,
Thy fame more bright then somes' more high shall
shyne,
Since thou turn'd great, who this worlds stage doe
trace,
With whom it seemes thou hast exchang'd thy place.
ATTRIBUTED POEM
TO HIS MOST AFFECTIONATE FRIEND, W. I.ITHGOW.*
No Arabs, Turkes, Moores, Sarazens, nor strangers,
Woods, wildernesse, and darke, vmbrag'ous caues,
No serpents, beasts, nor cruell, fatall dangers,
Nor sad regrates of ghostly growing graues,
Could thee affright, disswade, disturbe, annoy,
To venture life to winne a world of ioy.
This worke, which pompe-expecting eyes may feed,
To vs, and thee, shall perfect pleasure breed.
W. A.
* From Lithgo-dJs Travels: London, i6r6; and reprinted by
Mr. Maidment in his "Poetical Remains of William Lithgow, "
4to., Edinburgh, 1S63. Except from similarity of style and
initials, there is no evidence to attribute the poem to the Earl of
StirlincT.
THE END,
BELL AND liAlN, PRINTERS, GLASGOW.
.^-
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