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3333302171  1037 


822  Beaumont 
Beaumont,  Francis 
The  works  of  Francis 
Beaumont  and  John 
171618 


ie  New^brk 
t  ublic  Library 

Astor,  Lenox  and  Tilden  Foundations 


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CAMBRIDGE  ENGLISH  CLASSICS 


The  .Works 
of 

Francis    Beaumont 

\  *  i 

and 
John   Fletcher 


In  ten  volumes 
Vol.  VIII 


FRANCIS   BEAUMONT 

Born   1584 
Died    1616 


JOHN   FLETCHER 

Born   1579 
Died   1625 


BEAU  MO  Nr  AND  FLETCHER 


THE   WOMANS    PRIZE 

THE    ISLAND    PRINCESS 

THE    NOBLE    GENTLEMAN 

THE   CORONATION 

THE   COXCOMB 


THE    TEXT    EDITED     BY 

A.    R.   WALLER,   M.A. 


1969 
OCTAGON    BOOKS 

New  York 


First  published  in  1910 


Reprinted  1969 
by  permission  of  the  Cambridge  University  Press 

OCTAGON  BOOKS 

A  DIVISION  OF  FARRAR,  STRAUS  &  GIROUX,  INC. 

19  Union  Square  West 
New  York,  N.  Y.  10003 


LIBRARY  OF  CONGRESS  CATALOG  CARD  NUMBER:  76-83295 


CONTENTS 

PAGE 

The  Womans  Prize            ....  I 

The  Island  Princess            .          .          .          .  91 

The  Noble  Gentleman      .          .          .          .  171 

The  Coronation         .....  240 

The  Coxcomb  ......  308 


THE 

WOMANS   PRIZE, 

OR 

THE   TAMER    TAM'D. 

A   Comedy. 


The  Persons  represented  in  the  Play. 


Moroso,  an  old  rich  doting  Citizen, 

suitor  to  Livia. 

Sophocles,  )  "Two  Gentlemen,  friends 
Tranio,       )      to  Petruchio. 
Petruchio,  An  Italian  Gent.  Husband 

to  Maria. 
Rowland,    A  young   Gent,    in    lo<ve 

with  Livia. 


Petronius,  Father  to  Maria  and  Livia. 
Jaques,  )  Two  witty  servants  to  Pe- 
Pedro,  )  truchio. 


Apothecaries 

Watchmen. 

Porters. 


WOMEN. 

Maria,  A  chaste  witty  Lady,  \  The  two  masculine  daughters 

Livia,  Mistriss  to  Rowland.     /       of  Petronius. 

Biancha,  Their  Cosin,  and  Commander  in  chief. 

City  Wives,  \  To  the  relief  of  the  Ladies,  of  which, 

Countrey  Wives,  /       two  were  drunk. 

Maids. 


The  Scene  London. 


B.-F.  VIII. 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR    ACT  i 

PROLOGUE. 

T  ddies   to  you,   in   whose  defence   and  right, 

J y      Fletchers  brave  Muse  prepared  her  self  to  fight 

A  battel  without  blood,   'twas  well  fought   too, 

(The  victory's  yours,   though  got  with  much   ado.} 
do  present  this  Comedy,   in   which 

A  rivulet  of  pure  wit  flows,  strong  and  rich 
In   Fancy,   Language,   and  all  parts  that   may 

Add  Grace  and  Ornament  to  a   merry  Play. 
Which   this  may  prove.      Yet  not  to  go  too  far 

In  promises  from   this  our  Female   IVar. 
do  intreat  the  angry  men  would  not 

Expeft  the  mazes  of  a  subtle  plot, 
Set  Speeches,  high  Expressions,  and  what's  worse, 

In  a  true  Comedy,  politick  discourse. 
The  end  we  aim  at,  is  to   make  you  sport  ; 

Tet  neither  gall  the  City,  nor  the  Court. 
Hear,  and  observe  his  Comique  strain,  and  when 

Y'   are  sick  of  melancholy,  see't  agen. 
9eTis  no  dear  Physick  since  'twill  quit  the  cost : 

Or  his  intentions  with  our  pains,  are  lost. 


Aftus  Primus.     Sccena  Prima. 

Enter  Moroso,  Sophocles,  and  Tranio,  with  Rosemary, 

as  from  a  wedding. 

Mo.    /^"^  Od  give  'em  joy. 
VJT    Tra.     Amen. 

Soph.     Amen,  say  I  too  : 

The  pudding's  now  i'th'  proof,  alas  poor  wench. 
Through  what  a  mine  of  patience  must  thou  work, 
E'r  thou  know'st  good  hour  more  ! 

Tra.     'Tis  too  true  :    Certain, 
Methinks  her  father  has  dealt  harshly  with  her, 
Exceeding  harshly,  and  not  like  a  Father, 
To  match  her  to  this  Dragon  ;    I  protest 
I  pity  the  poor  Gentlewoman. 


Sc.  i  THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Mor.     Methinks  now, 
He's  not  so  terrible  as  people  think  him. 

Soph.     This  old  thief  flatters,  out  of  meer  devotion, 
To  please  the  Father  for  his  second  daughter. 

Tra.      But  shall  he  have  her  ? 

Soph.     Yes,  when  I  have  Rome. 
And  yet  the  father's  for  him. 

Mor.     I'll  assure  ye, 
I  hold  him  a  good  man. 

Soph.     Yes  sure  a  wealthy, 
But  whether  a  good  womans  man,  is  doubtful. 

Tra.     Would  'twere  no  worse. 

M[i\r.     What  though  his  other  wife, 
Out  of  her  most  abundant  soberness, 
Out  of  her  daily  hue  and  cries  upon  him, 
(For  sure  she  was  a  rebel)  turn'd  his  temper, 
And  forc'd  him  blow  as  high  as  she  ?    dos't  follow 
He  must  retain  that  long  since  buried  Tempest, 
To  this  soft  Maid  ? 

Soph.     I  fear  it. 

Tra.     So  do  I  too  : 

And  so  far,  that  if  God  had  made  me  woman, 
And  his  wife  that  must  be — 

Mor.     What  would  you  do,  Sir  ? 

Tra.     I  would  learn  to  eat  coals  with  an  angry  Cat, 
And  spit  fire  at  him  :    I  would  (to  prevent  him) 
Do  all  the  ramping,  roaring  tricks,  a  whore 
Being  drunk,  and  tumbling  ripe,  would  tremble  at  : 
There  is  no  safety  else,  nor  moral  wisdom. 
To  be  a  wife,  and  his. 

Soph.     So  I  should  think  too. 

Tra.     For  yet  the  bare  remembrance  of  his  first  wife 
(I  tell  ye  on  my  knowledge,  and  a  truth  too) 
Will  make  him  start  in's  sleep,  and  very  often 
Cry  out  for  Cudgels,  Colestaves,  any  thing  ; 
Hiding  his  breeches,  out  of  fear  her  Ghost 
Should  walk,  and  wear  'em  yet.     Since  his  first  marriage, 
He  is  no  more  the  still  Petruchio, 
Than  I  am  Babylon. 

Soph.     He's  a  good  fellow, 

A2 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR    ACT  i 

And  on   my  word  I  love  him  :    but  to  think 
A   fit   match    for   this   tender  soul- 

Tra.      His  very   frown,   if  she  but  say   her  prayers 
Louder  than   men   talk   treason,   makes   him   tinder  ; 
The  motion  of  a   Dial,   when   he's  testy, 
Is  the  same  trouble   to  him  as  a  Water-work  ; 
She  must  do   nothing  of  her  self;    not  eat, 
Drink,  say  Sir,  how  do  ye  ?    make  her  ready,  unready, 
Unless  he  bid  her. 

Soph.      He  will   bury   her, 
Ten  pound   to  twenty  shillings,  within   these  three  weeks. 

Tra.     I'll   be  your  half. 

Enter  Jaques  with  a  pot  of  Wine. 

Mor.     He  loves  her  most  extreamly, 
And  so  long  'twill   be   Honey-moon.      Now  Jaques. 
You  are  a  busie  man  I  am  sure. 

Jaq.      Yes  certain, 
This  old  sport  must  have  eggs. 

Sop.     Not  yet  this  ten  daies. 

Jaq.     Sweet  Gentlemen  with   Muskadel. 

Tra.     That's  right,  Sir. 

Mor.     This  fellow   broods  his  Master  :    speed  ye  Jaques. 

Soph.     We  shall  be   for  you  presently. 

Jaq.      Your  worships 

Shall  have  it  rich  and  neat  :    and  o'  my  conscience 
As  welcome  as  our  Lady-day  :    Oh  my  old  Sir, 
When  shall   we  see  your  worship  run  at  Ring  ? 
That  hour,  a  standing  were  worth  money. 

Mor.     So  Sir. 

Jaq.     Upon   my  little  honesty,  your  Mistriss, 
If  I  have  any  speculation,  must  think 
This  single  thrumming  of  a  Fiddle, 
Without  a  Bow,  but  even  poor  sport. 

Mor.     Y'are  merry. 

Ja.     Would  I  were  wise  too  :  so  God  bless  your  worship. 

Tra.     The  fellow  tells  you  true.  [Exit  Jaq. 

Soph.     When  is  the  day  man  ? 
Come,  come,  you'll  steal  a  marriage. 

Mor.     Nay,  believe  me  : 


Sc.  ii      .     THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

But  when  her  Father  pleases,  I  am  ready, 
And  all  my  friends  shall  know  it. 

Tra.      Why  not  now  ? 
One  charge  had  serv'd  for  both. 

Mor.     There's  reason  in't. 

Soph.     CalPd  Rowland — 

Mor.     Will  ye  walk  ? 
They'll  think  we  are  lost :    Come  Gentlemen. 

Tra.     You  have  wip'd  him  now. 

Soph.     So  will  he  never  the  wench,  I  hope. 

Tra.     I  wish  it.  [Exeunt. 

Sctena  Secunda. 

Enter  Rowland  and  Livia. 

Row.     Now  Livia ,  if  you'll  go  away  to  night, 
If  your  affections  be  not  made  of  words. 

Liv.     I  love  you,  and  you  know  how  dearly  Rowland^ 
Is  there  none  near  us  ?    my  affections  ever 
Have  been  your  servants ;    with  what  superstition 
I  have  ever  Sainted  you — 

Row.     Why  then  take  this  way. 

Liv.     'Twill  be  a  childish,  and  a  less  prosperous  course, 
Than  his  that  knows  not  care  :    why  should  we  do 
Our  honest  and  our  hearty  love  such   wrong, 
To  over-run  our  fortunes  ? 

Row.     Then  you  flatter. 

Liv.     Alas,  you  know  I  cannot. 

Ro[w~\.     What  hope's  left  else 
But  flying  to  enjoy  ye  ? 

Liv.     None  so  far, 

For  let  it  be  admitted,  we  have  time, 
And  all  things  now  in  other  expectation, 
My  father's  bent  against  us  ;    what  but  ruine, 
Can  such  a  by-way  bring  us  ?    if  your  fears 
Would  let  you  look  with  my  eyes,  I  would  shew  you, 
And  certain,  how  our  staying  here  would  win  us 
A  course,  though  somewhat  longer,  yet  far  surer. 

Row.     And  then  Moroso  h'as  ye. 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR     ACT  i 

Liv.     No  such   matter 

For  hold   this  certain,   begging,  stealing,   whoring, 
Selling  (which   is  a  sin   unpardonable) 
Of  counterfeit  Cods,  or   musty   English   Croacus  ; 
Switches,  or  Stones  for  th'   tooth-ache  sooner  finds  me, 
Than   that  drawn   Fox   Moroso. 

Row.     But  his  money, 
If  wealth   may  win  you — 

Liv.     If  a  Hog  may  be 

High   Priest  among  the  yews  ?    his  money   Rowland  ? 
Oh   Love  forgive  me,  what  faith  hast  thou  ? 
Why,  can  his  money  kiss  me  ? 

Row.     Yes. 

Liv.     Behind, 

Laid  out  upon  a  Petticoat :    or  graspe  me 
While  I  cry,  Oh  good  thank  you  ?    o'my  troth 
Thou  mak'st  me  merry  with  thy  fear  :    or  lie  with  me. 
As  you  may  do  ?    alas,  what  fools  you  men  are  ? 
His  mouldy  money  ?    half  a  dozen  Riders, 
That  cannot  sit,  but  stampt  fast  to  their  Saddles  ? 
No  Rowland,  no  man  shall  make  use  of  me  ; 
My  beauty  was  born  free,  and  free  I'll  give  it 
To  him  that  loves,  not  buys  me.     You  yet  doubt  me. 

Row.     I  cannot  say  I  doubt  ye. 

Liv.     Goe  thy  ways, 

Thou  art  the  prettiest  puling  piece  of  passion  : 
Y'faith  I  will  not  fail  thee. 

Row.     I  had  rather — 

Liv.     Prethee  believe  me,  if  I  do  not  carry  it, 
For  both  our  goods — 

Row.     But — 

Liv.     What  but  ? 

Row.     I  would  tell  you. 

Liv.     I  know  all  you  can  tell  me  ;    all's  but  this, 
You  would  have  me,  and  lie  with  me  ;    is't  not  so  ? 

Row.     Yes. 

Liv.     Why  you  shall  ;    will  that  content  you  ?    Goe. 

Row.     I  am  very  loth  to  goe. 


Sc.  ii  THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Enter  Byancha  and  Maria. 

Liv.     Now  o'  my  conscience 
Thou  art  an  honest  fellow  :    here's  my  Sister  ; 
Go,  prethee  go  ;    this  kiss,  and  credit  me, 
E'r  I  am  three  nights  older,  I  am  for  thee  : 
You  shall  hear  what  I  do. 
Farewel. 

Row.     Farewel.  [Exit  Rowland. 

Liv.     Alas  poor  fool,  how  it  looks  ! 
It  would  ev'n  hang  it  self,  should  I  but  cross  it. 
For  pure  love  to  the  matter  I  must  hatch  it. 

By  a.     Nay,  never  look  for  merry  hour,  Maria, 
If  now  you  make  it  not ;    let  not  your  blushes, 
Your  modesty,  and  tenderness  of  spirit, 
Make  you  continual  Anvile  to  his  anger  : 
Believe  me,  since  his  first  wife  set  him  going, 
Nothing  can  bind  his  rage  :    Take  your  own  council, 
You  shall  not  say  that  I  perswaded  you. 
But  if  you  suffer  him — 

Mar.     Stay,  shall  I  do  it  ? 

Bya.     Have  you  a  stomach  to't  ? 

Mar.     I  never  shew'd  it. 

Bya.     'Twill  shew  the  rarer  and  the  stronger  in  you. 
But  do  not  say  I  urg'd  you. 

Mar.     I  am  perfe6l, 

Like  Curtius,  to  redeem  my  Countrey,  I  have 
Leap'd  into  this  gulph  of  marriage,  and  I'll  do  it. 
Farewel  all  poorer  thoughts,  but  spight  and  anger, 
Till  I  have  wrought  a  miracle.     Now  cosin, 
I  am  no  more  the  gentle,  tame  Maria  ; 
Mistake  me  not ;    I  have  a  new  soul  in  me 
Made  of  a  North  wind,  nothing  but  tempest ; 
And  like  a  tempest  shall  it  make  all  ruin, 
Till  I  have  run  my  Will  out. 

Bya.     This  is  brave  now, 
If  you  continue  it ;    but  your  own  Will  lead  you. 

Mar.     Adieu  all  tenderness,  I  dare  continue  ; 
Maids  that  are  made  of  fears,  and  modest  blushes, 
View  me,  and  love  example. 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR     ACT  i 

Bya.      Here  is  your  Sister. 

Mar.      Here  is  the   brave  old   mans  love. 

Bya.     That  loves  the  young  man.  (is't  ? 

Afar.     I  and  hold  thee  there  wench  :   what  a  grief  of  heart 
When   Paphos  Revels  should   rowze  up  old   night, 
To  sweat  against  a  Cork  ;    to  lie  and   tell 
The  clock  o'th  lungs,  to  rise  sport  starv'd  ? 

Liv.      Dear  Sister, 
Where  have  you   been,  you  talk  thus  ? 

Mar.     Why  at  Church,  wench  ; 
Where  I   am  ti'd  to  talke  thus  :    I  am  a  wife  now. 

Liv.     It  seems  so,  and  a  modest. 

Mar.     You  are  an  ass ; 
When  thou  art  married  once,  thy   modesty 
Will  never  buy  thee  pins. 

Liv.     'Bless  me. 

Mar.     From  what  ? 

Bya.     From  such  a  tame  fool  as  our  cosin  Livia  ? 

Liv.     You  are  not  mad. 

Mar.     Yes  wench,  and  so  must  you  be, 
Or  none  of  our  acquaintance  :    mark  me  Livia  ; 
Or  indeed  fit  for  our  sex  :    'Tis  bed  time. 
Pardon  me  yellow  Hymen,  that  I  mean 
Thine  offerings  to  protract,  or  to  keep  fasting 
My  valiant  Bridegroom. 

Liv.     Whither  will  this  woman  ? 

• 

Bya.     You  may  perceive  her  end. 

Liv.      Or  rather  fear  it. 

Mar.     Dare  you  be  partner  in't  ? 

Liv.     Leave  it  Maria, 

I  fear  I  have  mark'd  too  much,  for  goodness  leave  it ; 
Divest  you  with  obedient  hands,  to  bed. 

Mar.     To  bed  ?    no  Livia,  there  are  Comets  hang 
Prodigious  over  that  yet  ;    there's  a  fellow 
Must  yet  before  I  know  that  heat  (ne'r  start  wench) 
Be  made  a  man,   for  yet  he  is  a  monster  ; 
Here  must  his  head  be  Livia. 

Liv.     Never  hope  it. 

'Tis  as  easie  with  a  Sive  to  scoop  the  Ocean,  as 
To  tame  Petruchio. 

8 


Sc.  ri          THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Mar.     Stay  :    Luctna  hear  me, 
Never  unlock  the  treasure  of  my  womb 
For  humane  fruit,   to  make  it  capable  ; 
Nor  never  with  thy  secret  hand  make  brief 
A  mothers  labor  to  me  ;    if  I  do 
Give  way  unto  my  married  Husband's  Will, 
Or  be  a  Wife  in  any  thing  but  hopes, 
Till  I   have  made  him  easie  as  a  child, 
And  tame  as  fear,  he  shall  not  win  a  smile, 
Or  a  pleas'd  look,  from  this  austerity, 
Though   it  would  pull  another  Joynture  from  him, 
And  make  him  ev'ry  day  another  man  ; 
And  when  I  kiss  him,  till  I  have  my  Will, 
May  I  be  barren  of  delights,  and  know 
Only  what  pleasures  are  in  dreams,  and  guesses. 

Liv.     A  strange  Exordium. 

Bya.     All  the  several  wrongs 
Done  by  Imperious  Husbands  to  their  Wives 
These  thousand  years  and  upwards,  strengthen  thee  : 
Thou  hast  a  brave  cause. 

Mar.     And  I'll  do  it  bravely, 
Or  may  I  knit  my  life  out  ever  after. 

Liv.     In  what  part  of  the  world  got  she  this  spirit  ? 
Yet  pray  Maria,  look  before  you  truly, 
Besides  the  obedience  of  a  wife  ; 
Which  you  will  find  a  heavy  imputation, 
Which  yet  I  cannot  think  your  own,  it  shews 
So  distant  from  your  sweetness. 

Mar.     'Tis  I  swear. 

Liv.     Weigh  but  the  person,  and  the  hopes  you  have, 
To  work  this  desperate  cure. 

Mar.     A  weaker  subject 

Would  shame  the  end  I  aim  at,  disobedience. 
You  talk  too  tamely  :    By  the  faith  I  have 
In  mine  own  noble  Will,  that  childish  woman 
That  lives  a  prisoner  to  her  Husbands  pleasure, 
Has  lost  her  making,  and  becomes  a  beast, 
Created  for  his  use,  not  fellowship. 

Liv.     His  first  wife  said  as  much. 

Mar.     She  was  a  fool, 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR     ACT  i 

And   took  a  scurvy  course  ;    let   her  be   nam'cl 

'Mongst  those  that   wish   for  things,   hut   dare   not   do'em  : 

I   have  a   new  dance   for  him. 

Liv.     Are  you  of  this   faith  ? 

Bya.      Yes  truly,  and   will    die  in't. 

Liv.     Why  then   let's  all   wear   breeches. 

Mar.     Now  thou  com'st  near  the  nature  of  a  woman  ; 
Hang  these  tame  hearted   Eyasses,  that  no  sooner 
See  the  Lure  out,  and   hear  their   Husbands  hollow, 
But  cry  like  Kites  upon  'em  :    The  free   Haggard 
(Which   is  that  woman,  that  hath   wing,  and  knows  it, 
Spirit  and  plume)  will   make  an   hundred  checks, 
To  shew  her  freedom,  sail  in  ev'ry  air, 
And  look  out  ev'ry  pleasure  ;    not  regarding 
Lure,  nor  quarry,  till   her  pitch  command 
What  she  desires,  making  her  foundred  keeper 
Be  glad  to  fling  out  trains,  and  golden  ones, 
To  take  her  down  again. 

Liv.     You  are  learned,  Sister ; 
Yet  I  say  still  take  heed. 

Mar.     A  witty  saying  ; 
I'll  tell  thee  Livia,  had  this  fellow  tired 
As  many  wives  as  horses  under  him, 
With  spurring  of  their  patience  ;    had  he  got 
A  Patent,  with  an  Office  to  reclaim  us, 
Confirm'd  by  Parliament ; .  had  he  all  the  malice 
And  subtilty  of  Devils,  or  of  us, 
Or  any  thing  that's  worse  than  both. 

Liv.     Hey,  hey  boys,  this  is  excellent. 

Mar.     Or  could  he 

Cast  his  wives  new  again,  like  Bels,  to  make  'em 
Sound  to  his  Will  ;    or  had  the  fearful  name 
Of  the  first  breaker  of  wild  women  :    yet, 
Yet  would  I  undertake  this  man,  thus  single, 
And,  spight  of  all  the  freedom  he  has  reach'd  to, 
Turn  him  and  bend  him  as  I  list,  and  mold  him 
Into  a  babe  again  ;    that  aged  women, 
W[a]nting  both  teeth  and  spleen,  may  Master  him. 

Bya.     Thou  wilt  be  chronicl'd. 

Mar.     That's  all  I  aim  at. 

10 


Sc.  ii         THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Liv.     I  must  confess,  I  do  with  all  my  heart 
Hate  an  imperious  Husband,  and  in  time 
Might  be  so  wrought  upon. 

Bya.     To  make  him  cuckold  ? 

Mar.     If  he  deserve  it. 

Liv.     Then  I'll  leave  ye  Ladies. 

Bya-     Thou  hast  not  so  much  noble  anger  in  thee. 

Mar.     Go  sleep,  go  sleep,  what  we  intend  to  do, 
Lies  not  for  such  starv'd  souls,  as  thou  hast  Livia. 

Liv.     Good    night :     the    Bridegroom    will    be    with    you 

Mar.     That's  more  than  you  know.  (presently. 

Liv.     If  ye  work  upon  him, 
As  you  have  promised,  ye  may  give  example, 
Which  no  doubt  will  be  followed. 

Mar.     So. 

Bya.     Good  night :    we'll  trouble  you  no  further. 

Mar.     If  you  intend  no  good,  pray  do  no  harm. 

Liv.     None,  but  pray  for  you.  [Exit  Livia. 

Bya.     Cheer  wench. 

Mar.     Now  Byancha, 

Those  wits  we  have,  let's  wind  'em  to  the  height. 
My  rest  is  up  wench,  and  I  pull  for  that 
Will  make  me  ever  famous.     They  that  lay 
Foundations,  are  half-builders,  all  men  say. 

Enter  Jaques. 

Jaq.     My  Master  forsooth. 

Mar.     Oh  how  does  thy  Master  ?    prethee  commend  me 

Jaq.     How's  this  ?    my  Master  stays  forsooth.       (to  him. 

Mar.     Why  let  him  stay,  who  hinders  him  forsooth  ? 

Jaq.     The  Revel's  ended  now, 
To  visit  you. 

Mar.     I  am  not  sick. 

Jaq.     I  mean  to  see  his  chamber  forsooth. 

Mar.    Am  I  his  Groom  ?  where  lay  he  last  night  forsooth  ? 

Ja[q~\.     In  the  low  matted  Parlour. 

Mar.     There  lies  his  way  by  the  long  Gallery. 

Jaq.     I  mean  your  chamber  :    y'are  very  merry  Mistriss. 

Mar.     'Tis  a  good  sign  I  am  sound  hearted  Jaques : 
But  if  you'll  know  where  I  lie,  follow  me  j 

II 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR     ACT  i 

And   what   thou  seest,  deliver  to  thy   Master. 

Bya.      I  )o   gentle   Jdyues.  [Exeunt. 

"Jd.      Ha,   is  the  wind   in   that   door  ? 
By'r   Lady    we   shall    have   foul   weather  then  : 
I   do  not   like  the  shuffling  of  these  women, 
They  are  mad  beasts,  when  they  knock  their  heads  together  : 
I   have  observ'd   them  all   this  day  ;    their  whispers, 
One   in   anothers  ear,   their  signs  and  pinches, 
And  breaking;  often   into  violent  laughters  : 

D  O 

As  if  the  end   they   purpos'd  were  their  own. 

Call  you  this  weddings  ?    Sure  this  is  a  knavery, 

A  very  trick,  and  dainty  knavery, 

Marvellous  finely  carried,  that's  the  comfort  : 

What  would  these  women  do  in  ways  of  honor  ? 

That  are  such   Masters  this  way  ?    Well,  my  Sir 

Has  been  as  good  at  finding  out  these  toys, 

As  any  living;    if  he   lose  it  now, 

At  his  own  peril  be  it.     I  must  follow.  [Exit. 

Sctena   T'ertia. 

Enter  Servants  with  Lights,  Petruchio,  Petronius,  Moroso, 

Tranio,  and  Sophocles. 

Pet.     You  that  are  married,  Gentlemen  ;    have  at  ye 
For  a  round  wager  now. 

Soph.     Of  this  nights  Stage  ? 

Petru.     Yes.  (shillings. 

Soph.     I  am  your  first  man,  a  pair  of  Gloves  of  twenty 

Petru.     Done  :    who  takes  me  up  next  ?   I  am  for  all  bets. 

Mor.     Well  lusty  Lawrence,  were  but  my  night   now, 
Old  as  I  am,  I  would  make  you  clap  on  Spurs, 
But  I  would  reach  you,  and  bring  you  to  your  trot  too  : 
I   would  Gallants.  (ha  ? 

Petru.     Well  said  good  Will  ;   but  where's  the  staff  boy, 
Old  father  Time,  your  hour-glass  is  empty. 

Tra.     A  good  tough  train  would  break  thee  all  to  pieces ; 
Thou  hast  not  breath  enough   to  say  thy  prayers. 

Petron.     See  how  these  boys  despise  us.     Will  you  to  bed 
This  pride  will   have  a  fall.  (son  ? 

Petru.     Upon  your  daughter  ; 

12 


Sc.  in          THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

But  I  shall  rise  again,  if  there  be  truth 
In  Eggs,  and  butter'd  Parsnips. 

Petro.     Will  you  to  bed  son,  and  leave  talking  ? 
To  morrow  morning  we  shall  have  you  look, 
For  all  your  great  words,  like  St.   George  at  Kingston, 
Running  a  foot-back  from  the  furious  Dragon, 
That  with  her  angry  tail  belabours  him 
For  being  lazie. 

Tra.     His  courage  quenchM,  and  so  far  quench'd — 

Petru.     'Tis  well  Sir. 
What  then  ? 

Soph.     Fly,  fly,  quoth  then  the  fearful  dwarfe  ; 
Here  is  no  place  for  living  man. 

Petru.  Well  my  masters,  if  I  do  sink  under  my  business, 
as  I  find  'tis  very  possible,  I  am  not  the  first  that  has  mis- 
carried ;  So  that's  my  comfort,  what  may  be  done  without 
impeach  or  waste,  I  can  and  will  do. 

Enter  Jaques. 

How  now,  is  my  fair  Bride  a  bed  ? 

Jaq.     No  truly,  Sir. 

Petron.  Not  a  bed  yet  ?  body  o'  me  :  we'll  up  and  rifle 
her  :  here's  a  coil  with  a  Maiden-head,  'tis  not  intail'd,  is  it  ? 

Petru.  If  it  be,  I'll  try  all  the  Law  i'th'  Land,  but  I'll 
cut  it  off:  let's  up,  let's  up,  come. 

Jaq.     That  you  cannot  neither. 

Petru.     Why  ? 

yaq.  Unless  you'll  drop  through  the  Chimney  like  a  Daw, 
or  force  a  breach  i'th'  windows  :  you  may  untile  the  house, 
'tis  possible. 

Petru.     What  dost  thou  mean  ? 

Jaq.     A  moral,  Sir,  the  Ballad  will  express  it : 
The  wind  and  the  rain,  has  turned  you  back  again, 
And  you  cannot  be  lodged  there.     The  truth  is,  all  the  doors 
Are  baracadoed  ;    not  a  Cathole,  but  holds  a  murd'rer  in't. 
She's  viftuall'd  for  this  month. 

Petru.     Art  not  thou  drunk  ? 

Soph.     He's  drunk,  he's  drunk  ;    come,  come,  let's  up. 

Jaq.  Yes,  yes,  I  am  drunk :  ye  may  go  up,  ye  may 
Gentlemen,  but  take  heed  to  your  heads :  I  say  no  more. 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR     ACT  i 

Soph.     I'll   try   that.  [Exit  Soph. 

Petron.     How  dost  thou  say  ?   the  door  fast  lock'd  fellow  ? 

Jaq.  Yes  truly  Sir,  'tis  lock'd,  and  guarded  too  ;  and 
two  as  desperate  tongues  planted  behind  it,  as  e'er  yet  bat- 
ter'd :  they  stand  upon  their  honors,  and  will  not  give  up 
without  strange  composition,  I'll  assure  you;  marching  away 
with  their  Pieces  cockt,  and  Bullets  in  their  mouths,  will  not 
satisfie  them. 

Petru.     How's  this  ?    how's  this  ?    they  are — 
Is  there  another  with   her  ? 

Jaq.     Yes  marry   is  there,  and  an  Enginier. 

Mor.     Who's  that  for   Heavens  sake  ? 

Jay-  Colonel  Byancha^  she  commands  the  works:  Spinola's 
but  a  Ditcher  to  her,  there's  a  half-moon  :  I  am  but  a  poor  man, 
but  if  you'll  give  me  leave,  I'll  venture  a  years  wages,  draw  all 
your  force  before  it,  and  mount  your  ablest  Piece  of  battery, 
you  shall  not  enter  it  these  three  nights  yet. 

Enter  Sophocles. 

Petru.     I  should  laugh  at  that  good  yaques. 

Soph.     Beat  back  again,  she's  fortified  for  ever. 

Jag.     Am  I  drunk  now,  Sir  ? 

Soph.     He  that  dares  most,  go  up  now,  and  be  cool'd. 
I  have  scap'd  a  pretty  scowring. 

Petru.  What  are  they  mad  ?  have  we  another  Bedlam  ? 
They  do  not  talke  I  hope  ? 

Soph.  Oh  terribly,  extreamly  fearful,  the  noise  at  London- 
bridge  is  nothing  near  her. 

Petru.     How  got  she  tongue  ? 

Soph.     As  you  got  tail,  she  was  born  to't. 

Petru.     Lock'd   out  a  doors,  and  on   my  wedding-night  ? 
Nay,  and  I  suffer  this,  I  may  goe  graze  : 
Come  Gentlemen,  I'll  batter  ;    are  these  virtues  ? 

Soph.  Do,  and  be  beaten  off  with  shame,  as  I  was :  I  went 
up,  came  to  th'  door,  knock'd,  no  body  answer'd ;  knock'd 
louder,  yet  heard  nothing :  would  have  broke  in  by  force ; 
when  suddainly  a  Water-work  flew  from  the  window  with 
such  violence,  that  had  I  not  duck'd  quickly  like  a  Fryer, 
ctetera  quis  nescit  ?  The  chamber's  nothing  but  a  mere  Ostend, 

H 


Sc.  m         THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

in  every  window  Pewter  Cannons  mounted,  you'll  quickly 
find  with  what  they  are  charg'd,  Sir. 

Petru.     Why  then  tantara  for  us. 

Soph.  And  all  the  lower  Works  lin'd  sure  with  small  shot, 
long  tongues  with  Fire-locks,  that  at  twelve  score  blank  hit  to 
the  heart:  now  and  ye  dare  go  up. 

Enter  Maria  and  Byanca  above. 

Mor.     The  window  opens,  beat  a  parley  first ; 
I  am  so  much  amaz'd,  my  very  hair  stands. 

Petron.     Why  how  now  Daughter  :    what  intrench'd  ? 

Mar.     A  little  guarded  for  my  safety,  Sir. 

Petru.  For  your  safety  Sweet-heart  ?  why  who  offends  you  ? 
I  come  not  to  use  violence. 

Mar.     I  think  you  cannot,  Sir,  I  am  better  fortified. 

Petru.     I  know  your  end, 
You  would  fain  reprieve  your  Maiden-head 
A  night,  or  two. 

Mar.     Yes,  or  ten,  or  twenty,  or  say  an  hundred; 
Or  indeed,  till  I  list  lie  with  you. 

Soph.     That's  a  shrewd  saying;   from  this  present  hour, 
I  never  will  believe  a  silent  woman. 
When  they  break  out  they  are  bonfires.  (Madam  ? 

Petro.     Till   you   list   lie   with   him  ?    why   who    are    you 

Bya.     That  trim  Gentlemans   wife,  Sir. 

Petru.     Cry  you  mercy,  do  you  command  too  ? 

Mar.     Yes  marry  does  she,  and  in  chief. 

Bya.     I  do  command,  and  you  shall  go  without : 
(I  mean  your  wife,  for  this  night) 

Mar.     And  for  the  next  too  wench,  and  so  as'[t  follows] 

Petro.     Thou  wilt  not,  wilt  'a  ? 

Mar.     Yes  indeed  dear  father, 
And  till  he  seal  to  what  I  shall  set  down, 
For  any  thing  I  know  for  ever. 

Soph.     Indeed  these  are  Bug[s]-words. 

Tra.     You  hear  Sir,  she  can  talk,  God  be  thanked. 

Petru.     I  would  I  heard  it  not,  Sir. 

Soph.     I  find  that  all  the  pity  bestow'd  upon  this  woman, 
Makes  but  an  Anagram  of  an  ill  wife, 
For  she  was  never  virtuous. 

15 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR     ACT  i 

Petru.      You'll   let   me   in   I   hope,   for  all  this  jesting. 

Mar.      Hope  still,   Sir. 

Petron.     You  will  come  down   I  am  sure. 

Mar.     I  am  sure   I   will   not. 

Petron.     I'll  fetch  you  then. 

Bya.     The  power  of  the  whole  County  cannot,  Sir, 
Unless  we  please  to  yield,  which   yet   I   think 
We  shall  not  ;    charge  when  you  please,  you  shall 
Hear  quickly  from  us. 

Mor.     Bless  me  from  a  chicken  of  thy   hatching, 
Is  this  wiving  ? 

Petru.     Prethee  Maria  tell  me  what's  the  reason, 
And  doe  it  freely,  you  deal  thus  strangely  with   me  ? 
You  were  not  forc'd  to  marry,  your  consent 
Went  equally  with  mine,  if  not  before  it : 
I  hope  you  do  not  doubt  I  want  that  mettle 
A  man  should   have  to  keep  a  woman  waking  ; 
I  would  be  sorry  to  be  such  a  Saint  yet  : 
My  person,  as  it  is  not  excellent, 
So  'tis  not  old,  nor  lame,  nor  weak  with  Physick, 
But  well  enough  to  please  an  honest  woman, 
That  keeps  her  house,  and  loves  her  Husband. 

Mar.     'Tis  so. 

Petru.     My  means  and  my  conditions  are  no  shamers 
Of  him  that  owes  'em,  all  the  world  knows  that, 
And  my  friends  no  reliers  on  my  fortunes. 

Mar.     All  this  I  believe,  and  none  of  all  these  parcels 
I   dare   [ex]cept  against  j    nay  more,  so  far 
I  am  from  making  these  the  ends  I  aim  at, 
These  idle  outward  things,  these  womens  fears, 
That  were  I  yet  unmarried,  free  to  choose 
Through  all  the  Tribes  of  man,  I'll  take  Petruchio 
In's  shirt,  with  one  ten  Groats  to  pay  the  Priest, 
Before  the  best  man  living,  or  the  ablest 
That  e'er  leap'd  out   of  Lancashire,  and   they  are  right  ones. 

Petron.     Why  do  you  play  the  fool  then,  and  stand  prating 
Out  of  the  window  like  a  broken   Miller  ! 

Petru.     If  you  will  have  me  credit  you  Maria, 
Come  down,  and  let  your  love  confirm   it. 

Mar.     Stay  there,  Sir,  that  bargain's  yet  to  make. 


Sc.  m         THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

By  a.     Play  sure  wench,  the  Packs  in  thine  own   hand. 

Soph.     Let  me  die  lowsie,  if  these  two  wenches 
Be  not  brewing  knavery  to  stock  a  Kingdom. 

Petru.     Why  this  is  a  Riddle  : 
I  love  you,  and  I  love  you  not. 

Mar.     It  is  so  : 

And  till  your  own  experience  do  untie  it, 
This  distance  I  must  keep. 

Petru.     If  you  talk  more, 
I  am  angry,  very  angry. 

Mar.     I  am  glad  on't,  and  I  will  talk. 

Petru.     Prethee  peace, 

Let  me  not  think  thou  art  mad.     I  tell  thee  woman, 
If  thou  goest  forward,  I  am  still  Petruchio. 

Mar.     And  I  am  worse,  a  woman  that  can  fear 
Neither  Petruchio  Furius,  nor  his  fame, 
Nor  any  thing  that  tends  to  our  allegeance  ; 
There's  a  short  method  for  you,  now  you  know  me. 

Petru.     If  you  can  carry't  so,  'tis  very  well. 

Bya.     No,  you  shall  carry  it,  Sir. 

Petru.     Peace  gentle  Low-bel. 

Petron.     Use  no  more  words,  but  come  down  instantly, 
I  charge  thee  by  the  duty  of  a  child. 

Petru.     Prethee  come  Maria,  I  forgive  all. 

Mar.     Stay  there  ;   That  duty,  that  you  charge  me  by 
(If  you  consider  truly  what  you  say) 
Is  now  another  man's,  you  gave't  away 
F  th'  Church,  if  you  remember,  to  my  Husband  : 
So  all  you  can  exa6l  now,  is  no  more 
But  only  a  due  reverence  to  your  person, 
Which  thus  I  pay  :    Your  blessing,  and  I  am  gone 
To  bed  for  this  night. 

Petron.     This  is  monstrous  : 
That  blessing  that  St.  Dumtan  gave  the  Devil, 
If  I  were  neer  thee,  I  would  give  thee — 
Pull  thee  down  by  th'  nose. 

By.     Saints  should  not  rave,  Sir ; 
A  little  Rubarb  now  were  excellent. 

Petru.     Then   by  that  duty  you  owe  to  me  Mariay 
Open  the  door,  and  be  obedient :    I  am  quiet  yet. 

B.-F.  vin.  B  17 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR     ACT  i 

Mar.     I  do  confess  that  duty,   make  your  best  on't. 

Pctru.      Why  give  me  leave,   I   will. 

B\a.     Sir,  there's  no   learning 
An  old  stift  Jade  to  trot,  you  know  the  moral. 

Mar.     Yet  as  I   take   it,   Sir,   I  owe  no  more 
Than  you  owe  back  again. 

Pctru.     You  will   not  Article  ? 
All  I  owe,  presently,   let  me  but  up,  I'll  pay. 

Mar.     Y'  are  too  hot,  and  such   prove  Jades  at  length  ; 
You  do  confess  a  duty,  or  respect  to  me  from  you  again  : 
That's  very  near,  or  full  the  same  with   mine  ? 

Petru.      Yes. 

Mar.     Then   by  that  duty,  or  respecl:,  or  what 
You  please  to  have  it,  go  to  bed  and  leave  me, 
And  trouble  me  no  longer  with  your  fooling  ; 
For  know,  I  am  not  for  you. 

Petru.     Well,  what  remedy  ? 

Petron.     A  fine  smart  Cudgel.     Oh  that  I  were  near  thee. 

Bya.     If  you  had  teeth   now,  what  a  case  were  we  in  ! 

M[o]r.     These  are  the  most  authentique  Rebels,  next 
Tyrone,  I  ever  read  of. 

Mar.     A  week  hence,  or  a  fortnight,  as  you  bear  you, 
And  as  I  find  my  will  observ'd,  I  may, 
With   intercession  of  some  friends,   be  brought 
May  be  to  kiss  you  ;    and  so  quarterly 
To  pay  a  little  Rent  by  composition, 
You  understand   me  ? 

Soph.     Thou  Boy  thou.  (my  comfort. 

Petru.     Well  there  are  more  Maids  than  Maudlin,  that's 

Mar.     Yes,  and   more  men  than  Michael.  (Lady. 

Petru.     I  must  not  to  bed  with  this  stomach,  and  no  meat 

Mar.     Feed  where  you  will,  so  it  be  sound  and  wholsome, 
Else  live  at  Livery,  for  I'll  none  with  you.  (carry. 

By.     You  had  best  back  one  of  the  Dairy  Maids,  they'll 
But  take  heed  to  your  girths,  you'll  get  a  bruise  else. 

Petru.     Now  if  thou  wouldst  come  down  and  tender  me : 
All  the  delights  due  to  a  marriage-bed, 
Study  such  kisses  as  would  melt  a  man, 
And  turn  thy  self  into  a  thousand  Figures, 
To  add  new  flames  unto  me,  I  would  stand 

1 8 


Sc.  in         THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Thus  heavy,  thus  regardless,  thus  despising 

Thee,  and  thy  best  allurings  :    all  the  beauty 

That's  laid  upon  your  bodies,  mark  me  well, 

For  without  doubt  your  mind's  are  miserable, 

You  have  no  Masques  for  them  :    all  this  rare  beauty, 

Lay  but  the  Painter  and  the  Silk-worm  by, 

The  Doclor  with  his  Dyets,  and  the  Tailor, 

And  you  appear  like  flea'd  Cats,  not  so  handsome. 

Mar.     And  we  appear  like  her  that  sent  us  hither, 
That  only  excellent  and  beauteous  nature  ; 
Truly  our  selves  for  men  to  wonder  at, 
But  too  divine  to  handle  ;   we  are  Gold, 
In  our  own  natures  pure  ;    but  when  we  suffer 
The  husbands  stamp  upon  us,  then  allays, 
And  base  ones  of  you  men  are  mingled  with  us, 
And  make  us  blush  like  Copper. 

Petru.     Then,  and  never 
Till  then  are  women  to  be  spoken  of, 
For  till  that  time  you  have  no  souls  I  take  it : 
Good  night :    come  Gentlemen  ;    I'll  fast  for  this  night, 
But  by  this  hand,  well ;    I  shall  come  up  yet. 

Mar.     No. 

Petru.     There  will  I  watch  thee  like  a  wither'd  Jury, 
Thou  shalt  neither  have  meat,  Fire,  nor  Candle, 
Nor  any  thing  that's  easie  :    do  you  rebel  so  soon  ? 
Yet  take  mercy. 

By.     Put  up  your  Pipes  :    to  bed  Sir,  I'll  assure  you 
A  months  siege  will  not  shake  us. 

Moro.     Well  said  Colonel. 

Mar.     To  bed,  to  bed  Petrucblo:  good  night  Gentlemen. 
You'll  make  my  Father  sick  with  sitting  up : 
Here  you  shall  find  us  any  time  these  ten  days, 
Unless  we  may  march  off  with  our  contentment. 

Petru.     I'll  hang  first. 

Mar.     And  I'll  quarter  if  I  do  not, 
I'll  make  you  know,  and  fear  a  wife  Petruchio^ 
There  my  cause  lies. 

You  have  been  famous  for  a  woman-tamer, 
And  bear  the  fear'd-name  of  a  brave  Wife-breaker : 
A  woman  now  shall  take  those  honors  off, 

B2  19 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR     ACT  i 

And  tame  you ;   nay,  never  look  so  bigg,  she  shall,  believe  me, 
And  I  am  she  :    what  think  ye  i    good  night  to  all, 
Ye  shall  find  Centinels. 

By.     If  ye  dare  sally.  [Exeunt  above. 

Petro.     The  devil's  in  'em,  ev'n  the  very  devil,  the  down- 
right devil. 

Petru.     I'll  devil  'em:   by  these  ten  bones  I  will:   I'll  bring 

it  to  the   old  Proverb,  no  sport  no  pie  : taken  down   i'th' 

top  of  all  my  speed ;  this  is  fine  dancing :  Gentlemen,  stick 
to  me.  You  see  our  Freehold's  touch'd,  and  by  this  light, 
we  will  beleagure  'em,  and  either  starve  'em  out,  or  make 
'em  recreant. 

Petro.     I'll  see  all  passages  stopt,  but  those  about  'em  : 
If  the  good  women  of  the  Town  dare  succor  'em, 
We  shall   have  wars  indeed. 

Soph.     I'll  stand  perdue  upon  'em. 

Mor.     My  Regiment  shall  lie  before. 

Jaq.     I  think  so,  'tis  grown  too  old  to  stand. 

Petru.     Let's  in,  and  each  provide  his  tackle, 
We'll  fire  'em  out,  or  make  'em  take  their  pardons  : 
Hear  what  I  say  on  their  bare  knees — 
Am  I  Petruchio^  fear'd,  and  spoken  of, 
And  on  my  wedding  night  am  I  thus  jaded  ?         [Exeunt  omn. 

Sccena  Quarta. 

Enter  Rowland  and  Pedro  at  several  doors. 

Row.     Now  Pedro  ? 

Ped.  Very  busie  Master  Rowland. 
Row.     What  haste  man  ? 

Ped.  I  beseech  you  pardon  me, 

I  am  not  mine  own  man. 

Row.     Thou  art  not  mad  ? 

Ped.  No  ;    but  believe  me,  as  hasty — 

Row.     The  cause  good  Pedro  ? 

Ped.  There  be  a  thousand  Sir  ;    you  are  not  married  ? 

Row.     Not  yet. 

Ped.  Keep  your  self  quiet  then. 

Row.     Why  ? 

Ped.  You'll  find  a  Fiddle 

20 


Sc.  iv         THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

That  never  will  be  tun'd  else  :    from  all  women —        [Exit. 
Row.     What  ails  the  fellow  tro  ?     Jaques  ? 

Enter  Jaques. 

Jaq.     Your  friend  Sir. 
But  very  full  of  business. 

Row.     Nothing  but  business  ? 
Prethee  the  reason,  is  there  any  dying  ? 

Jaq.     I  would  there  were  Sir. 

Row.     But  thy  business  ? 

Jaq.     I'll  tell  you  in  a  word,  I  am  sent  to  lay 
An  Imposition  upon  Souse  and  Puddings, 
Pasties,  and  penny  Custards,  that  the  women 
May  not  relieve  yo[n]   Rebels  :    Fare  ye  well,  Sir. 

Row.     How  does  my  Mistriss  ? 

Jaq.     Like  a  resty  jade. 
She's  spoil'd  for  riding.  [Exit  Jaques. 

Row.     What  a  devil  ail  they? 

Enter  Sophocles. 

Custards,  and  penny  Pasties,  Fools  and  Fiddles, 
What's  this  to  th'  purpose  ?     Oh  well  met. 

Soph.     Now  Rowland. 
I  cannot  stay  to  talk  long. 

Row.     What's  the  matter  ? 
Here's  stirring,  but  to  what  end  ?   whither  goe  you  ? 

Soph.     To  view  the  Works. 

Row.     What  Works  ? 

Soph.     The  womens  Trenches. 

Row .     Trenches  ?    are  such  to  see  ? 

Soph.     I  do  not  jest,  Sir. 

Row.     I  cannot  understand  you. 

Soph.     Do  not  you  hear 
In  what  a  state  of  quarrel  the  new  Bride 
Stands  with  her  Husband  ? 

Row.     Let  him  stand  with  her,  and  there's  an  end. 

Soph.     It  should  be,  but  by'r  Lady 
She  holds  him  out  at  Pikes  end,  and  defies  him, 
And  now  is  fortifi'd,  such  a  Regiment  of  Rutters 
Never  defied  men  braver  :    I  am  sent 

21 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR     ACT  i 

To  view  their  preparation. 

Row.     This  is  news 

Stranger  than  Arms  in   the  air  :    you  saw  not 
My  gentle   Mistriss  ? 

Soph.     Yes,  and   meditating 

Upon  some  secret  business,  when  she  had  found  it 
She  leap'd  for  joy,  and  laugh'd,  and  straight  retir'd 
To  shun  Moroso. 

Row.     This  may  be  for  me. 

Soph.      Will  you  along  ? 

Row.     No. 

Soph.     Farewel.  [Exit  Sophocles. 

Row.     Farewel,  Sir. 

What  should   her  musing  mean,  and  what  her  joy  in't, 
If  not  for  my  advantage  ?    stay  ye  ;    may  not 

Enter  Livia  at  one  door,  and  Moroso  at  another,  hearkning. 

That  bob-tail  jade  Moroso,  with  his  Gold, 

His  gew-gaudes,  and  the  hope  she  has  to  send  him 

Quickly  to  dust,  excite  this  ?    here  she  comes, 

And  yonder  walks  the  Stallion  to  discover  : 

Yet  I'll  salute  her  :    save  you  beauteous  Mistriss. 

Liv.     The  Fox  is  kennell'd  for  me  :    save  you  Sir. 

Row.     Why  do  you  look  so  strange  ? 

Liv.     I  use  to  look  Sir 
Without  examination. 

Mor.     Twenty  Spur-Royals  for  that  word. 

Row.     Belike  then 
The  obje6l  discontents  you  ? 

Liv.     Yes  it  does. 

Row.     Is't  come  to  this  ?    you  know  me,  do  you  not  ? 

Liv.     Yes,  as  I   may  know  many  by   repentance. 

Row.     Why  do  you  break  your  faith  ? 

Liv.     I'll  tell  you  that  too, 
You  are  under  age,  and  no  band  holds  upon  you. 

Mor.      Excellent  wench. 

Liv.     Sue  out  your  understanding, 
And  get  more  hair  to  cover  your  bare  knuckle ; 
(For  boys  were  made  for  nothing,  but  dry  kisses) 
And  if  you  can,  more  manners. 

22 


ACT  ii         THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Mor.     Better  still. 

Liv.     And  then  if  I  want  Spanish  Gloves,  or  Stockings, 
A  ten  pound  Wastecoat,  or  a  Nag  to  hunt  on, 
It  may  be  I  shall  grace  you  to  accept  Jem. 

Row.     Farewel,  and  when  I  credit  women  more, 
May  I  to  Smithfield)  and  there  buy  a  Jade, 
(And  know  him  to  be  so)  that  breaks  my  neck. 

Liv.     Because  I  have  known  you,  I'll  be  thus  kind  to  you ; 
Farewel,  and  be  a  man,  and  I'll  provide  you, 
Because  I  see  y'  are  desperate,  some  staid  Chamber-maid 
That  may  relieve  your  youth  with  wholsome  do6lrine. 

Mor.     She's  mine  from  all  the  world  :    ha  wench  ? 

Liv.     Ha  Chicken  ? —          [gives  him  a  box  (?  th*  ear,  and  Ex. 

Mor.     How's  this?  I  do  not  love  these  favors:  save  you. 

Row.     The  devil  take  thee- —  [wrings  him  by  th'  nose. 

Mor.     Oh  ! 

Row.     There's  a  Love-token  for  you  :    thank  me  now. 

Mor.     I'll  think  on  some  of  ye,  and  if  I  live, 
My  nose  alone  shall  not  be  plaid  withal.  [Exit. 

A5lus  Secundus.     Scczna  Prima. 

Enter  Petronius,  and  Moroso. 

Petro.      A      Box  o'th'  ear  do  you  say? 

j[~\_       Mor.     Yes  sure,  a  sound  one, 
Beside  my  nose  blown  to  my  hand  ;    if  Cupid 
Shoot  Arrows  of  that  weight,  I'll  swear  devoutly, 
H'as  sued  his  Livery,  and  is  no  more  a  boy. 

Petro.     You  gave  her  some  ill  language  ? 

Mor.     Not  a  word. 

Petro.     Or  might  be  you  were  fumbling  ? 

Mor.     Would  I  had  Sir. 

I  had  been  a  forehand  then  ;    but  to  be  baifl'd, 
And  have  no  feeling  of  the  cause — 

Petro.     Be  patient, 
I  have  a  medicine  clapt  to  her  back  will  cure  her. 

Mor.     No  sure  it  must  be  afore,  Sir. 

Petro.     O'  my  conscience, 
When  I  got  these  two  wenches  (who  till  now 

23 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR    ACT  n 

Ne'r  shew'd   their  riding)  I  was  drunk  with   Bastard, 
Whose  nature  is  to  form   things  like  it  self 
Heady,  and   monstrous  :    did  she  slight   him   too  ? 

Mor.     That's  all   my  comfort :    a  meer   Hobby-horse 
She  made  child  Rowland:   s'foot  she  would  not  know  him, 
Not  give  him  a  free  look,  not  reckon  him 
Among  her  thoughts,  which   I  held  more  than  wonder, 
I  having  seen  her  within's  three  days  kiss  him 
With  such  an  appetite  as  though  she  would  eat  him. 

Petro.     There  is  some  trick  in  this:   how  did  he  take  it? 

Mor.     Ready  to  cry;    he  ran  away. 

Petro.     I  fear  her. 

And  yet  I  tell  you,  ever  to  my  anger, 
She  is  as  tame  as  innocency;    it  may  be 
This  blow  was  but  a  favour. 

Mor.     I'll  be  sworn  'twas  well  tied  on  then. 

Petro.     Goe  too,  pray  forget  it, 
I  have  bespoke  a  Priest  :    and  within's  two  hours 
I'll  have  ye  married  ;    will  that  please  you  ? 

Mor.     Yes. 

Petro.     I'll  see  it  done  my  self,  and  give  the  Lady 
Such  a  sound  exhortation  for  this  knavery 
I'll  warrant  you,  shall  make  her  smell  this  month  on't. 

Mor.     Nay  good  Sir  be  not  violent. 

Petro.      Neither — 

Mor.     It  may  be 

Out  of  her  earnest  love  there  grew  a  longing 
(As  you  know  women  have  such  toys)  in  kindness, 
To  give  me  a  box  o'th'  ear,  or  so. 

Petro.     It  may  be. 

Mor.     I  reckon  for  the  best  still  :    this  night  then 
I  shall  enjoy  her. 

Petro.     You  shall  handsel  her. 

Mor.     Old  as  I  am,  I'll  give  her  one  blow  for't 
Shall  make  her  groan  this  twelve-month. 

Petro.     Where's  your  Joynture  ? 

Mor.     I  have  a  Joynture  for  her. 

Petro.     Have  your  Council  perus'd  it  yet  ? 

Mor.     No  Council  but  the  night,  and  your  sweet  daughter, 
Shall  e'r  peruse  that  Joynture. 

24 


Sc.  ii  THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Petro.     Very  well,  Sir. 

Moro.     I'll  no  demurrers  on't,  nor  no  rejoynders. 
The  other's  ready  seal'd. 

Petro.     Come  then  let's  comfort 
My  Son  Petruchio^  he's  like  little  Children 
That  loose  their  baubles,  crying  ripe. 

Mor.     Pray  tell  me, 

Is  this  stern  woman  still  upon  the  flaunt 
Of  bold  defiance  ? 

Petro.     Still,  and  still  she  shall  be, 
Till  she  be  starv'd  out,  you  shall  see  such  justice, 
That  women  shall  be  glad  after  this  tempest, 
To  tie  their  husbands  shooes,  and  walk  their  horses. 

Mor.     That  were  a  merry  world:  do  you  hear  the  rumor? 
They  say  the  women  are  in  insurrection, 
And  mean  to  make  a — 

Petro.     They'll  sooner 

Draw  upon  walls  as  we  do  :    Let  'em,  let  'em, 
We'll  ship  'em  out  in  Cuck-stools,  there  they'll  sail 
As  brave  Columbus  did,  till  they  discover 
The  happy  Islands  of  obedience. 
We  stay  too  long,  Come. 

Mor.     Now  St.  George  be  with  us.  [Exeunt. 

Sccena  Secunda. 

Enter  Livia  alone. 

Llv.     Now  if  I  can  but  get  in  handsomely, 
Father  I  shall  deceive  you  ;    and  this  night 
For  all  your  private  plotting,     I'll  no  wedlock  ; 
I  have  shifted  sail,  and  find  my  Sisters  safety 
A  sure  retirement ;    pray  to  heaven  that  Rowland 
Do  not  believe  too  far,  what  I  said  to  him, 
For  yon  old  Foxcase  forc'd  me,  that's  my  fear. 
Stay,  let  me  see,  this  quarter  fierce  Petruchio 
Keeps  with  his  Myrmidons,  I  must  be  suddain, 
If  he  seize  on  me,  I  can  look  for  nothing 
But  Marshal-Law  ;    to  this  place  have  I  scap'd  him  ; 
Above  there. 

25 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR   ACT  n 

Enter  Maria  and  Byancha  above. 

Mar.      ChevaT  a. 

Liv.     A  friend. 

By.     Who  are  you  ? 

Liv.      Look  out  and   know. 

Mar.      Alas   poor  wench,   who  sent   thee  ? 
What  weak  fool  made  thy  tongue  his  Orator  ? 
I  know  you  come   to   parly. 

Liv.     Y'are  deceiv'd, 

Urg'd  by  the  goodness  of  your  cause,  I  come 
To  do  as  you  do. 

Mar.     Y'are  too  weak,   too   foolish, 
To  cheat  us  with  your  smoothness  :    do  not  we  know 
Thou  hast   been  kept  up  tame  ? 

Liv.     Believe  me. 

Mar.     No,  prethee  good   Livia 
Utter  thy  Eloquence  somewhere  else. 

By.     Good  Cosin 

Put  up  your  Pipes  ;    we  are  not  for  your  palate 
Alas  we  know  who  sent  you. 

Liv.     O'  my  word — 

By.     Stay  there  ;    you  must  not  think  your  word, 
Or  by  your  Maidenhead,  or  such  Sunday  oaths, 
Sworn  after  Even-Song,  can  inveigle  us 
To  lose  our  hand-fast :    did  their  wisdoms  think 
That  sent  you  hither,  we  would  be  so  foolish, 
To  entertain  our  gentle  Sister  Sinon, 
And  give  her  credit,  while  the  wooden  Jade 
Petruchio  stole  upon  us  :    no  good  Sister, 
Go  home,  and  tell  the  merry  Greeks  that  sent  you, 
Ilium  shall  burn,  and  I,  as  did  /Eneasy 
Will  on  my  back,  spite  of  the  Myrmidons, 
Carry  this  warlike  Lady,  and  through   Seas 
Unknown,  and  unbeliev'd,  seek  out  a  Land, 
Where  like  a  race  of  noble  Amazons 
We'll  root  our  se[l]ves,  and  to  our  endless  glory 
Live,  and  despise  base  men. 
Liv.     I'll  second  ye. 
By.     How  long  have  you  been  thus  ? 

26 


Sc.  ii  THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Liv.     That's  all  one,  Cosin, 
I  stand  for  freedom  now. 

By.     Take  heed  of  lying  ; 
For  by  this  light,  if  we  do  credit  you, 
And  find  you  tripping,  his  infliclion 
That  kill'd  the  Prince  of  Orange^  will  be  sport 
To  what  we  purpose. 

Liv.     Let  me  feel  the  heaviest.  (maiden-head, 

Mar.     Swear   by  thy  Sweet-heart  Rowland  (for   by  your 
I   fear  'twill  be  too  late  to  swear)  you  mean 
Nothing  but  fair  and  safe,  and  honourable 
To  us,  and  to  your  self. 

Liv.     I  swear. 

By.     Stay  yet, 

Swear  as  you  hate  Moroso^  that's  the  surest, 
And  as  you  have  a  certain  fear  to  find  him 
Worse  than  a  poor  dry'd    "Jack^  full  of  more  aches 
Than  Autumn  has  ;    more  knavery,  and  usury, 
And  foolery,  and  brokery,  than  dogs-ditch  : 
As  you  do  constantly  believe  he's  nothing 
But  an  old  empty   bag  with  a  grey  beard, 
And  that  Beard  such  a  bob-tail,  that  it  looks 
Worse  than  a  Mares  tail  eaten  off  with  Fillies  : 
As  you  acknowledge  that  young  handsome  wench 
That  lies  by  such  a  Bilboa  blade  that  bends 
With  ev'ry  pass  he  makes,  to  th'  hilts,  [most]   miserable, 
A  dry  Nurse  to  his  Coughs,  a  fewterer 
To  such  a  nasty  fellow,  a  robb'd  thing 
Of  all  delights  youth  looks  for  :    and  to  end, 
One  cast  away  on  course  beef,  born  to  brush 
That  everlasting  Cassock  that  has  worn 
As  many  servants  out,  as  the  Northeast  passage 
Has  consum'd  Sailors  :    if  you  swear  this,  and  truly 
Without  the  reservation  of  a  gown 
Or  any  meritorious  Petticoat, 
'Tis  like  we  shall  believe  you. 

Liv.     I  do  swear  it. 

Mar.     Stay  yet  a  little  ;   came  this  wholsome  motion 
(Deal  truly  Sister)  from  your  own  opinion, 
Or  some  suggestion  of  the  Foe  ? 

27 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR   ACT  n 

Liv.     Nev'r  fear  me, 

For  by  that   little  faith  I  have  in   Husbands, 
And  the  great  zeal   I   bear  your  cause,  I  come 
Full  of  that  liberty  you  stand   for,  Sister. 

Mar.      If  we  believe,  and  you  prove  recreant,  Livia, 
Think  what  a  maim  you  give  the  noble  Cause 
We  now  stand  up  for :    Think  what  women  shall, 
An  hundred  years  hence,  speak  thee,  when  examples 
Are  look'd  for,  and  so  great  ones,  whose  relations, 
Spoke  as  we  do  'em  wench,  shall  make  new  customs. 

By.     If  you  be  false,  repent,  go  home,  and  pray, 
And  to  the  serious  women  of  the  City 
Confess  your  self;    bring  not  a  sin  so  hainous 
To  load  thy  soul  to  this  place  :    mark  me  Livia, 
If  thou  be'st  double,  and  betray'st  our  honors, 
And  we  fail  in  our  purpose  :    get  thee  where 
There  is  no  women  living,  nor  no  hope 
There  ever  shall  be. 

Mar.     If  a  Mothers  daughter, 
That  ever  heard  the  name  of  stubborn  husband 
Find  thee,  and  know  thy  sin. 

By.     Nay,  if  old  age, 

One  that  has  worn  away  the  name  of  woman, 
And  no  more  left  to  know  her  by,  but  railing, 
No  teeth,  nor  eyes,  nor  legs,  but  wooden  ones 
Come  but  i'th'  wind-ward  of  thee,  for  sure  she'll  smell  thee ; 
Thou'lt  be  so  rank,  she'll  n'de  thee  like  a  night-Mare, 
And  say  her  Prayers  back-ward  to  undo  thee  : 
She'll  curse  thy  meat  and  drink,  and  when  thou  marriest, 
Clap  a  sound  spell  for  ever  on  thy  pleasures. 

Mar.     Children  of  five  year  old,  like  little  Fairies, 
Will  pinch  thee  into  motley  :    all  that  ever 
Shall  live,  and  hear  of  thee,  I  mean  all  women, 
Will  (like  so  many  furies)  shake  their  keys ; 
And  toss  their  flaming  distaffs  o'r  their  heads, 
Crying  revenge  :    take  heed,  'tis  hideous  : 
Oh  'tis  a  fearful  office,  if  thou  hadst 

(Though  thou  be'st  perfect  now)  when  thou  cam'st  hither, 
A  false  imagination,  get  thee  gone, 
And  as  my  learned  Cosin  said,  repent, 

28 


Sc.  in  iv      THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

This  place  is  sought  by  soundness. 

Liv.     So  I  seek  it, 
Or  let  me  be  a  most  despis'd  example. 

Mar.     I  do  believe  thee,  be  thou  worthy  of  it. 
You  come  not  empty? 

Liv.     No,  here's  Cakes,  and  cold  meat, 
And  Tripe  of  proof :    behold,  here's  Wine  and  Beer, 
Be  suddain,  I  shall  be  surpriz'd  else. 

Mar.    Meet  at  the  low  parlour  door,  there  lies  a  close  way : 
What  fond  obedience  you  have  living  in  you, 
Or  duty  to  a  man   before  you  enter, 
Fling  it  away,  'twill  but  defile  our  OfPrings. 

By.     Be  wary  as  you  come. 

Liv.     I  warrant  ye.  [Exeunt. 

Sccena   Tertia. 

Enter  three  Maids. 

I  Mai.     How  goes  your  business  Girls  ? 

2.  A  foot,  and  fair. 

3.  If  fortune  favour  us  :    away  to  your  strength, 
The  Countrey  Forces  are  arriv'd,  be  gone, 

We  are  discover'd  else. 

1.  Arm,  and  be  valiant. 

2.  Think  of  our  cause. 

3.  Our  Justice. 

I.     JTis  sufficient.  \Exeunt. 

Scczna   Quart  a. 

Enter  Rowland  and  Tranio  at  sei  ^al  doors. 

Tra.     Now  Rowland  ? 

Row.     How  doe  you  ? 

Tra.     How  dost  thou  man  ? 
Thou  look'st  ill : 

\_R~\ow .     Yes,  pray  can  you  tell  me  Tranio, 
Who  knew  the  devil  first  ? 

Tra.     A  woman. 

Row.     So.     Were  they  not  well  acquainted  ? 

Tra.     May  be  so, 

29 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR   ACT  n 

For  they  had  certain   Dialogues  together. 

Row .      He  sold  her  fruit,  I   take  it  ? 

Tra.     Yes,  and  Cheese 
That  choak'd  all  mankind  after. 

Row.     Canst  thou  tell  me 
Whether  that  woman  ever  had  a  faith 
After  she  had  eaten  ? 

Tra.     That's  a  School-question 

Row.     No, 

'Tis  no  question,  for  believe  me  Tranio, 
That  cold  fruit  after  eating  bread  naught  in   her 
But  windy  promises,  and  chollick  vows 
That  broke  out  both  ways. 
[Thou]  hast  heard  I  am  sure 
Of  Escufapius,  a  far  famed  Surgeon, 
One  that  could  set  together  quartered  Traitors 
And  make  'em  honest  men. 

Tra.     How  dost  thou  Rowland  ? 

Row.     Let  him  but  take,  (if  [h]e  dare  do  a  cure 
Shall  get  him  fame  indeed)  a  faithless  woman, 
There  will  be  credit  for  him,  that  will  speak  him, 
A  broken  woman  Tranio^  a  base  woman, 
And  if  he  can  cure  such  a  rack  of  honor 
Let  him  come  here,  and  practice. 

Tra.     Now  for  honors  sake, 
Why  what  ail'st  thou  Rowland  ? 

Row .     I  am  ridden  Tranio. 
And  spur-galPd  to  the  life  of  patience 
(Heaven  keep  my  wits  together)  by  a  thing 
Our  worst  thoughts  are  too  noble  for,  a  woman. 

Tra.     Your  Mistriss  has  a  little  frown'd  it  may  be  ? 

Row.     She  was  my  Mistriss, 

Tra.     Is  she  not  ? 

R[o\w.     No  Tranio. 

She  has  done  me  such  disgrace,  so  spitefully 
So  like  a  woman  bent  to  my  undoing, 
That  henceforth  a  good  horse  shall  be  my  Mistriss, 
A  good  Sword,  or  a  Book  :    and  if  you  see  her, 
Tell  her  I  [doe]  beseech  you,  even  for  love  sake. — 

Tra.     I  will  Rowland. 

30 


Sc.  v  THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Row.     She  may  sooner 
Count  the  good  I  have  thought  her, 
Our  old  love  and  our  friendship, 
Shed  one  true  tear,  mean  one  hour  constantly, 
Be  old  and  honest,  married,  and  a  maid, 
Than   make  me  see  her   more,  or  more  believe  her  : 
And  now  I  have  met  a  messenger,  farewel  Sir.  [Exit. 

Tra.     Alas  poor  Rowland,  I  will  do  it  for  thee  : 
This  is  that  dog  Morose,  but  I  hope 
To  see  him  cold  i'th'  mouth  first,  e'r  he  enjoy  her : 
I'll  watch  this  young  man,  desperate  thoughts  may  seize  him, 
And  if  my  purse  or  council  can,  I'll  ease  him.  [Exit. 

Sccena    Qulnta. 

Enter  Petruchio,  Petronius,  Moroso,  and  Sophocles. 

Petru.     For  look  you  Gentlemen,  say  that  I  grant  her, 
Out  of  my  free  and  liberal  love,  a  pardon, 
Which  you,  and  all  men  else  know,  she  deserves  not, 
(Teneatis  amid)  can  all  the  world  leave  laughing  ? 

Petro.     I  think  not. 

Petru.     No  by  they  cannot ; 

For  pray  consider,  have  you  ever  read, 

Or  heard  of,  or  can  any  man  imagine. 

So  stiff  a   Tom-boy,  of  so  set  a  malice, 

And  such  a  brazen  resolution, 

As  this  young  Crab-tree  ?    and  then  answer  me, 

And  mark  but  this  too  friends,  without  a  cause, 

Not  a  foul  word  come  cross  her,  not  a  fear, 

She  justly  can  take  hold  on,  and  do  you  think 

I   must  sleep  out  my  anger,  and  endure  it, 

Sow  pillows  to  her  ease,  and  lull  her  mischief? 

Give  me  a  Spindle  first  :    no,  no  my  Masters, 

Were  she  as  fair  as  Nell-a-Greece,  and  housewife, 

As  good  as  the  wise  Sailors  wife,  and  young  still, 

Never  above  fifteen,  and  these  tricks  to  it, 

She  should  ride  the  wild  Mare  once  a  week,  she  should, 

(Believe  me  friends  she  should)  I  would  tabor  her, 

Till  all  the  Legions  that  are  crept  into  her, 

31 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR    ACT  n 

Flew  out  with   fire   i'th'  tails. 

Soph.      Methinks  you   err   now, 
For   to   me   seems,   a   little  sufferance 
Were  a   far  surer  cure. 

Pt'tru.      Yes,   I    can   suffer, 
Where  I   see  promises  of  peace  and  amendment. 

Mor.      Give   her  a  few  conditions. 

Petru.      I'll   be   hanged   first. 

Petron.      Give  her  a  Crab-tree  Cudgel. 

Petru.      So   I    will  ; 

And  after  it  a  flock-bed  for  her  bones. 
And   hard  eggs,  till  they  brace  her  like  a  Drum, 

She  shall   be  pamper'd  with  

She  shall  not  know  a  stool   in  ten  months,   Gentlemen. 

Soph.     This  must  not  be. 

Enter  Jaques. 

*Jaq.     Arm,  arm,  out  with  your  weapons, 
For  all  the  women  in  the  Kingdom's  on  ye ; 

Enter  Pedro. 

They  swarm  like  wasps,  and  nothing  can  destroy  'em, 
But  stopping  of  their  hive,  and  smothering  of  'em. 

Ped.     Stand  to  your  guard,  Sir,  all  the  devils  extant 
Are  broke  upon  us  like  a  cloud  of  thunder  ; 
There  are  more  women  marching  hitherward, 
In  rescue  of  my  Mistriss,  than  e'er  turn'd  tail 
At  Stur bridge  Fair,  and  I   believe,  as  fiery. 

Jaq.     The  forlorn  hope's  led  by  a  Tanner's  wife, 
I  know  her  by  her  Hide,  a  desperate  woman  : 
She  flead  her  Husband  in  her  youth,  and  made 
Raynes  of  his  Hide  to  ride  the  parish.    Take  'em  all  together, 
They  are  a  genealogy  of  Jennets,  gotten 
And  born  thus  by  the  boisterous  breath  of  Husbands  ; 
They  serve  sure,  a[n]d  are  swift  to  catch  occasion,; 
(I  mean  their  foes  or  Husbands)  by  the  forelocks, 
And  there  they  hang  like  favours ;    cry  they  can 
But  more  for  Noble  spight,  than  fear  :    and  crying 
Like  the  old  Giants  that  were  foes  to  heaven, 

32 


Sc.  v  THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

They  heave  ye  stool  on  stool,  and  fling  main  Pot-lids 

Like  massie  Rocks,  dart  Ladles,  tossing  Irons, 

And  Tongs  like  Thunderbolts,  till  overlaid, 

They  fall  beneath  the  weight  ;    yet  still  aspiring 

At  those  Emperious  [Codsheads]  that  would  tame  'em. 

There's  ne'r  a  one  of  these,  the  worst  and  weakest, 

(Chuse  where  you  will,)  but  dare  attempt  the  raising, 

Against  the  soveraign  peace  of  Puritans, 

A  Aftfy-pole  and  a  Morris,  maugre  mainly 

Their  zeal,  and  Dudgeon-daggers  :    and  yet  more, 

Dares  plant  a  stand  of  batt'ring  Ale  against  'em, 

And  drink  'em  out  o'th'  parish.  (patience. 

Soph.     Lo  you   fierce  Petruchioy  this  comes    of  your    im- 

Ped.     There's  one  brought  in  the  Bears  against  the  Canons 
Of  the  Town,  made  it  good,  and  fought  'em. 

Jaq.     Another  to  her  everlasting  fame,  creeled 
Two  Ale-houses  of  ease  :    the  Quarter-Sessions 
Running  against  her  roundly  ;    in  which  business 
Two  of  the  disanullers  lost  their  night-caps  : 
A  third  stood  excommunicate  by  the  cudgel  ; 
The  Constable,  to  her  eternal  glory, 
Drunk  hard,  and  was  converted,  and  she  vi6lor. 

Ped.     Then  are  they  victualed  with  Pies  and  Puddings, 
(The  trappings  of  good  Stomachs)  noble  Ale 
The  true  defender,  Sausages,  and  smoak'd  ones, 
If  need  be,  such  as  serve  for  Pikes  ;    and  Pork, 
(Better  the  Jews  ne'r  hated  :)    here  and  there 
A  bottle  of  Metheglln^  a  stout  Britain 
That  will  stand  to  'em ;   what  else  they  want,  they  war  for. 

Petru.     Come  to  council. 

Soph.     Now  you  must  grant  conditions,  or  the  Kingdom 
Will  have  no  other  talke  but  this. 

Petron.     Away  then,  and  let's  advise  the  best. 

Soph.     Why  do  you  tremble  ? 

Mor.     Have  I  liv'd  thus  long  to  be  knockt  o'th'  head, 
With  half  a  Washing-beetle  :    pray  be  wise,  Sir. 

Petru.    Come,  something  I'll  do,  but  what  it  is,  I  know  not. 

Soph.     To  Council  then,  and  let's  avoid  their  follies. 
Guard  all  the  doors,  or  we  shall  not  have  a  Cloak  left. 

[Exeunt. 

B.-F.  VIII.  C  33 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR   ACT  n 


[Sexta.] 

Enter  Pctronius,  Pctruchio,  iVloroso,  Sophocles,  and  Tranio. 

Petro.     I  am   indifferent,   though   I   must  confess, 
I   had   rather  see   her  carted. 

Tra.      No  more  of  that,  Sir. 

Soph.     Are  ye  resolv'd  to  give  her   fair  conditions  ? 
'Twill   be  the  safest   way. 

Petru.     I  am  distracted, 
Would  I   had   run   my  head   into  a  halter 
When   I  first  woo'd  her  :    if  I  offer  peace, 
She'll  urge   her  own  conditions,  that's  the  devil. 

Soph.     Why,  say  she  do  ? 

Petru.     Say,  I  am   made  an  Ass,  then  ; 
I  know  her  aim  :    may  I,  with   reputation 
(Answer  me  this)  with  safety  of  mine  honor, 
(After  the  mighty  manage  of  my  first  wife, 
Which  was  indeed  a  fury  to  this  Filly, 
After  my  twelve  strong  labours  to  reclaim   her, 
Which   would   have   made  Don   Hercules  horn   mad, 
And  hid   him   in   his  Hide)  suffer  this   Cicely  ? 
E're  she  have  warm'd  my  sheets,  e're  grappelFd  with  me, 
This  Pinclc,  this  painted  Foist,  this  Cockle-boat, 
To  hang  her  Fights  out,  and  defie  me  friends, 
A  well  known   man  of  war  ?    if  this   be  equal, 
And   I  may  suffer,  say,  and  I  have  done  ? 

Petron.     I   do  not  think  you  may. 

Tra.      You'll  make  it  worse,   Sir. 

Soph.     Pray  hear  me  good  Petruchio  :    but  ev'n   now, 
You  were  contented  to  give  all  conditions, 
To  try  how  far  she  would  carry  :    'Tis  a  folly, 
(And  you  will  find   it  so)  to  clap  the  curb  on, 
E're  you  be  sure  it  proves  a  natural  wildness, 
And  not  a  forc'd.     Give  her  conditions, 
For  on  my  life  this  trick  is  put  into  her. 

Petron.      I  should   believe  so  too. 

Soph.     And  not  her  own. 

Tra.      You'll  find   it  so. 

Soph.     Then  if  she  flownder  with  you, 

34 


Sc.  [vi]       THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Clap  spurs  on,  and  in  this  you'll  deal  with  temperance, 
Avoid  the  hurry  of  the  world. 

Tra.     And  loose.  [Mustek  above. 

Mor.     No  honor  on  my  life,  Sir. 

Petru.     I  will  do  it. 

Petron.     It  seems  they  are  very  merry. 

Enter  Jaques. 

Petru.     Why   [God]   hold   it. 

Mor.     Now  Jaques  ? 

Jaq.     They  are  i'th'  flaunt,  Sir. 

Soph.     Yes  we  hear  'em. 

Jaq.     They  have  got  a  stick  of  Fiddles,  and  they  firk  it, 
In  wondrous  ways,  the  two  grand   Capitano's, 
(They  brought  the   Auxiliary  Regiments) 
Dance  with   their  coats  tuckt  up  to  their  bare  breeches, 
And  bid   [them]   kiss  'em,   that's  the  burden  ; 
They  have  got  Metbeglin^  and  audacious  Ale  ; 
And  talk  like  Tyrants. 

Petron.      How  knowest  thou  ? 

Jaq.      I   peept  in 
At  a  loose  Lansket. 


A 


SONG. 

Health  for  all  this  day 

To  the  woman  that  bears  the  sway 

And  wears   the  breeches  ; 

Let  it  come,   let  it  come. 


Let  this  health  be  a  Seal, 

For  the  good  of  the  Common-weal 

the  woman  shall  wear  the  breeches. 

Lefs  drink  then  and  laugh  it 
And  merrily  merrily  quaff  it 
And  tipple,  and  tipple  a  round 

heres   to  thy  fool, 

and  to  my  fool. 

Come,  to  all  fools 
though  it  cost  us  wench,  many  a  pound. 

C2  35 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR    ACT  n 

Tra.      Hark. 

Petro.      A   Song,   pray   silence.  [////  the  JVomen  above. 

Mor.      They   look   out.  Citizens  and  Countrey 

Petru.      Good   ev'n    Ladies.  women. 

Mar.      Good   you  good   ev'n   Sir. 

Petru.      How   have  you  slept  to   night  ? 

Mar.     Exceeding  well   Sir. 

Petru.      Did   you   not   wish   me  with  you  ? 

Mar.     No,   believe  me, 
I   never  thought  upon  you. 

Cun.     Is  that  he  ? 

Bya.     Yes. 

Cun.     Sir  ? 

Soph.     She  has  drank  hard,  mark  her   Hood. 

Cun.     You  are — 

Soph.     Learnedly  drunk,  I'll  hang  else  :    let  her  utter. 

Cun.     And  I  must  tell  you,  viva  voce  friend, 
A  very  foolish   fellow. 

Tra.     There's  an  Ale  figure. 

Petru.     I  thank  you  Susan  Brotes. 

Cit.     Forward  Sister. 

Cun.     You  have  espoused  here  a  hearty  woman, 
A  comly,  and  courageous. 

Petru.     Well,  I  have  so. 

Cun.     And  to  the  comfort  of  distressed  damsels, 
Women  out-worn  in  wedlock  ;    and  such  vessels, 
This  woman  has  defied  you. 

Petru.     It  should  seem  so. 

Cun.     And  why  ? 

Petru.     Yes,  can  you  tell  ? 

Cun.     For  thirteen  causes. 

Petru.     Pray  by  your  patience  Mistriss. 

Cit.     Forward  Sister. 

Petru.     Do  you  mean  to  treat  of  all  these  ? 

Cit.     Who  shall  let  her  ? 

Petro.     Do  you  hear,  Velvet  hood,  we  come  not  now 
To  hear  your  doftrine. 

Cun.     For  the  first,  I  take  it, 
It  doth  divide  it  self  into  seven  branches. 

Petru.      Hark  you  good  Maria, 

36 


Sc.  [vi]        THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Have  you  got  a  Catechiser  here  ? 

Tra.     Good  zeal. 

Soph.     Good  three  pil'd  predication,  will  you  peace, 
And  hear  the  cause  we  come  for  ? 

Cun.     Yes  bob-tails 

We  know  the  cause  you  come  for,  here's  the  cause, 
But  never  hope  to  carry  her,  never  dream 
Or  flatter  your  opinions  with  a  thought 
Of  base  repentance  in  her. 

Cit.     Give  me  Sack, 
By  this,  and  next  strong  Ale. 

Cun.     Swear  forward  Sister. 

Cit.      By  all  that's  cordial,   in  this  place  we'll  bury 
Our  bones,   fames,  tongues,  our  triumphs  and   [then]  all 
That  ever  yet  was  chronicl'd  of  woman  ; 
But  this  brave  wench,  this  excellent  despiser, 
This  bane  of  dull  obedience,  shall  inherit 
His  liberal  Will,  and  march  off  with  conditions 
Noble,  and  worth  her  self. 

Cun.     She  shall   Tom   Tilers^ 

And  brave,  ones  too,  my  Hood  shall  make  a  Hearse-cloth, 
And  I'll  lie  under  it  like  yone  o*  Gaunt, 
E'r  I  go  less,  my  Distaff  stuck  up  by  me, 
For  the  eternal  Trophy  of  my  conquests  ; 
And  loud  fame  at  my  head  with   two  main  bottles, 
Shall  fill  to  all  the  world  the  glorious  fall 
Of  old   Don   Gillian. 

Cit.     Yet  a  little  further, 

We  have  taken  Arms  in  rescue  of  this  Lady  ; 
Most  just  and  Noble  :    if  ye  beat  us  off 
Without  conditions,  and  we  recant, 
Use   us  as  we  deserve  ;    and  first  degrade  us 
Of  all  our  antient  chambring  :    next  that 
The  Symbols  of  our  secresie,  silk  Stockings, 
Hew  of  our  heels  ;    our  petticoats  of  Arms 
Tear  off  our  bodies,  and  our  Bodkins  break 
Over  our  coward   heads. 

Cun.     And  ever  after 
To  make  the  tainture  most  notorious, 
At  all  our  Crests,  videlicet  our  Plackets, 
Let  Laces  hang,  and  we  return  again 

37 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR    ACT  n 

Into  our  former  titles,    Da[y]ry-maids. 

Pctru.      No  more   wars:    puissant   Ladies,  shew  conditions 
And   freely   I  accept  'cm. 

Mar.      Call    in    Livia  ; 
She's  in   the  Treaty  too. 

Enter  Livia  above. 

Mor.      How,   Livia  ? 

Mar.      Hear  you   that  Sir  ? 
There's  the  conditions  for  ye,  pray  peruse  'em. 

Petron.     Yes,  there  she  is:   't  had  been  no  right  rebellion, 
Had  she  held  oft  ;    what  think  you  man  ? 

Mor.     Nay   nothing. 

I  have  enough  o'  th'  prospect  :    o'  my  conscience, 
The  worlds  end,  and  the  goodness  of  a  woman 
Will  come  together. 

Petron.     Are  you  there  sweet   Lady? 

Liv.     Cry  you  mercy  Sir,  I  saw  you  not:   your  blessing. 

Petron.     Yes,  when  I  bless  a  jade,  that  stumbles  with  me. 
How  are  the  Articles  ? 

Liv.     This  is  for  you  Sir  ; 
And   I  shall  think  upon't. 

Mor.     You  have  us'd  me  finely. 

Liv.     There's  no  other  use  of  thee   now  extant, 
But  to  be  hung  up,  Cassock,  Cap,  and  all, 
For  some  strange  monster  at   Apothecaries. 

Petron.     I   hear  you  whore. 

Liv.     It  must  be   his  then  Sir, 
For  need  will  then  compel  me. 

Cit.     Blessing  on  thee. 

[Liv.      He  wil  undoe  me  in  meere  pans  of  Coles 
To  make  him  lustie.] 

Petron.     There's  no  talking  to  'em  ; 
How  are  they  Sir  ? 

Petru.     As  I  expected  :    Liberty  and  clothes,  [Reads. 

When,  and  in  what  way  she  will  :    continual  moneys, 
Company,  and  all  the  house  at  her  dispose  ; 
No  tongue  to  say,  why  is  this  ?    or  whether  will  it ; 
New  Coaches,  and  some  buildings,  she  appoints  here  ; 
Hangings,  and  Hunting-horses  :    and  for  Plate 
And  Jewels  for  her  private  use,  I  take  it, 

38 


Sc.  [vi]        THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Two  thousand  pound  in  present  :    then  for  Musick, 
And  women  to  read  French  ; 

Petron.     This  must  not  be. 

Petru.     And  at  the  latter  end  a  clause  put  in, 
That  Lima  shall  by  no  man   be  importun'd, 
This  whole  month  yet,  to  marry. 

Petron.     This  is  monstrous. 

Petru.     This  shall  be  done,  I'll  humor  her  awhile  : 
If  nothing  but  repentance  and  undoing 
Can  win  her  love,  I'll  make  a  shift  for  one. 

Soph.     When  ye  are  once  a  bed,  all  these  conditions 
Lie  under  your  own  seal. 

Mar.     Do  you  like  'em  ? 

Petru.      Yes. 

And  by  that  faith  I  gave  you  'fore  the  Priest 
I'll  ratifie  'em. 

Cun.     Stay,  what  pledges  ? 

Mar.     No,  I'll  take  that  oath ; 
But  have  a  care  you  keep  it. 

Cit.     'Tis  not  now 
As  when  Andrea  liv'd. 

Cun.     If  you  do  juggle, 
Or  alter  but  a  Letter  of  these  Articles 
We  have  set  down,  the  self-same  persecution. 

Mar.     Mistrust  him  not. 

Petru.     By  all    my  honesty 

Mar.     Enough,  I  yield. 

Petron.     What's  this  Inserted  here  ? 

Soph.     That  the  two  valiant  women  that  [command]  here 
Shall  have  a  Supper  made  'em,  and  a  large  one, 
And  liberal  entertainment  without  grudging, 
And  pay  for  all  their  soldiers. 

Petru.     That  shall  be  too ; 

And  if  a  Tun  of  Wine  will  serve  to  pay  'em, 
They  shall  have  justice  :    I  ordain  ye  all 
Pay-masters,  Gentlemen. 

Tra.     Then  we  shall  have  sport  boys. 

Mar.     We'll  meet  you  in  the  Parlor. 

Petru.     Ne'r  look  sad,  Sir,  for  I  will  do  it. 

Soph.     There's  no  danger  in't. 

39 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR    ACT  in 

/;  /;•[«].      For  Livia%  Article   you  shall   observe   it, 
I    ha\r    tfd    my    self. 
Pctron.      I    will. 
\\tru.      AloiiL:  then  :    now 

O 

Either   I   break,   or   this  stiff  plant   must   bow.  [Exeunt. 

Aftus   Tertius.      Sccena   Prima. 

Enter  Tranio  and  Rowland. 

Tra.    /"AOme  you  shall  take  my  counsel. 

V x      Row.     I   shall  hang  first. 

I'll   no   more  love,  that's  certain,  'tis  a  bane, 

(Next  that  they  poison   Rats  with)  the  most  mortal  : 

No,  I  thank   Heaven,  I  have  got  my  sleep  again, 

And  now  begin  to  write  sence  ;    I   can  walk  ye 

A   long  hour  in   my  chamber  like  a  man, 

And  think  of  some  thing  that  may   better  me  ; 

Some  serious  point  of  Learning,  or  my  state  ; 

No  more  ay-mees,  and   [miseries]    Tranio^ 

Come  near  my  brain.      I'll  tell  thee,  had  the  devil 

But  any  essence  in   him  of  a  man, 

And  could  be  brought  to  love,  and  love  a  woman, 

'Twould   make  his  head  ake  worser  than   his  horns  do ; 

And  firk  him  with  a  fire  he  never  felt  yet, 

Would   make  him  dance.     I  tell  thee  there  is  nothing 

(It  may   be  thy  case   Tranio^  therefore   hear  me  :) 

Under  the  Sun   (reckon   the  mass  of  follies 

Crept  into  th'  world  with   man)  so  desperate, 

So  mad,  so  senceless,  poor  and  base,  so  wretched, 

Roguy,  and  scurvy. 

Tra.     Whether  wilt  thou  Row/and? 

Row.     As  'tis  to  be  in  love. 

Tra.     And  why   for  virtue  sake  ?  (me  ? 

Row .     And  why  for  virtue's  sake  ?   dost  thou  not  conceive 

Tra.     No  by  my  troth. 

Row.     Pray  then  and  heartily, 
For  fear  thou   fall   into't :    I'll  tell  thee  why  too, 
(For  I   have  hope  to  save  thee)  when  thou  lovest, 
And  first  beginst  to  worship  the  gilt  calf: 

40 


Sc.  i  THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Imprimis,  thou  hast  lost  thy  gentry, 

And  like  a  Prentice,  flung  away  thy  Freedom, 

Forthwith  thou  art  a  slave. 

Tr[a~\.     That's  a  new  Doctrine. 

Row.     Next  thou  art  no  more  man. 

Tra.     What  then  ? 

Row.     A  Fryppery; 

Nothing  but  braided  hair  and  penny  ribbond, 
Glove,  Garter,  Ring,  Rose,  or  at  best  a  Swabber, 
If  thou  canst  love  so  near  to  keep  thy  making, 
Yet  thou  wilt  lose  thy  language. 

Tra.     Why  ? 

Row.     Oh   Tranio, 
Those  things  in  love,  ne'r  talk  as  we  do. 

Tra.     No  ? 

Row.     No,  without  doubt,  they  sigh,  and  shake  the  head, 
And  sometimes  whistle  dolefully. 

Tra.     No  tongue  ? 

Row.     Yes  Tranio,  but  no  truth   in't,  nor  no  reason, 
And  when  they  cant  (for  'tis  a  kind  of  canting) 
Ye  shall  hear,  if  you  reach  to  understand  'em 
(Which  you  must  be  a  fool  first,  or  you  cannot) 
Such  gibb'rish  ;    such  believe  me,  I  protest  Sweet, 
And  oh  dear  Heavens,  in  which  such  constellations 
Reign  at  the  births  of  Lovers,  this  is  too  well, 
And  daigne  me  Lady,  daigne  me  I  beseech  ye 
You  poor  unworthy  lump,  and  then  she  licks  him. 

Tra.     A on't,  this  is  nothing. 

Row.     Thou  hast  hit  it  : 

Then  talks  she  ten  times  worse,  and  wryes,  and  wriggles, 
As  though  she  had  the  Itch  (and  so  it  may  be.) 

Tra.     Why  thou  art  grown  a  strange  discoverer. 

Row.     Of  mine  own  follies   Tranio. 

Tra.     Wilt  thou  Rowland, 
Certain  ne'er  love  again  ? 

Row.     I  think  so,  certain, 
And   if  I  be  not  dead  drunk  I  shall  keep  it. 

Tra.     Tell  me  but  this ;  what  dost  thou  think  of  women  ? 

Row.     Why,  as  I  think  of  Fiddles,  they  delight  me, 
Till  their  strings  break. 

41 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR    ACT  in 

Tra.      What  strings  ? 

Row.      Their   modesties, 

Faiths,   Vows,  and   Maidenheads,   for  they  are   like   Kits 
They   have   but   four  strings  to  'em. 

Tra.      What   wilt   thou 

Give   me   for  ten   pound   now,   when   thou  next  lovest, 
And   the  same  woman   still  ? 

Row.     Give  me   the  money; 
A   hundred,  and   my   Bond   for't. 

Tra.      But   pray  hear  me, 
I'll  work  all   means  I  can  to  reconcile  ye  : 

Row.     Do,  do,  Give  me  the  money ; 

Tra.     There. 

Row.     Work   Tranio. 

Tra.     You  shall  go  sometimes  where  she  is. 

Row.     Yes  straight. 
This  is  the  first  good  I  e'er  got  by  woman. 

Tra.      You  would  think  it  strange  now,  if  another  beauty 
As  good  as  hers,  say  better. 

Row.     Well. 

Tra.     Conceive  me, 
This  is  no  point  o'  th'  wager. 

Row.     That's  all  one. 

Tra.     Love  you  as  much,  or  more,  than  now  she  hates  you. 

Row.     'Tis  a  good  hearing,  let  'em  love :   ten  pound  more, 
I  never  love  that  woman. 

Tra.     There  it  is  ; 
And  so  an   hundred,  if  you  lose. 

Row.     'Tis  done  ; 
Have  you  another  to  put  in  ? 

Tra.      No,  no  Sir. 

Row.     I  am  very  sorry  :    now  will  I  erecl 
A  new  game,  and  go  hate  for  th'  bell  ;    I  am  sure 
I  am   in   excellent  case  to  win. 

Tra.      I  must  have  leave 

To  tell  you,  and  tell  truth  too,  what  she  is, 
And  how  she  suffers  for  you. 

Row.     Ten  pound  more, 
I  never  believe  you. 

Tra.     No  Sir,  I  am  stinted. 

42 


Sc.  ii          THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Row.     Well,  take  your  best  way  then. 

Tra.     Let's  walk,  I  am  glad 
Your  sullen   Feavor's  off. 

Row.      Shalt  see  me   Tranio 

A  monstrous  merry  man  now  :    let's  to  the  Wedding, 
And  as  we  go,  tell  me  the  general   hurry 
Of  these  mad  wenches  and  their  works. 

Tra.     I  will. 

Row.     And  do  thy  worst. 

Tra.     Something  I'll  do. 

Row.      Do   Tranio.  [Exeunt. 


Sctena  Secunda. 

Enter  Pedro,  and  Jaques. 

Fed.     A  pair  of  Stocks  bestride  'em,  Are  they  gone  ? 

Ja[q\»     Yes  they  are  gone  ;    and  all  the  pans  i'th  Town 
Beating  before  'em  :    What  strange  admonitions 
They  gave  my  Master,  and  how  fearfully 
They  threaten'd,  if  he   broke   'em  ? 

Ped.     O'   my  Conscience 
H'as  found  his  full  match  now. 

Jaq.     That  I   believe  too. 

Ped.     How  did  she  entertain  him  ? 

'Jaq.     She  lookt  on  him. 

Ped.      But  scurvely. 

Jaq.     With  no  great  affeclion 

That  I  saw  :    and   I  heard  some  say  he  kiss'd  her, 
But  'twas  upon   a  treaty,  and  some  copies 
Say,  but  her  Cheek. 

Ped.     Jaques,  What  wouldst  thou  give 
For  such  a  Wife  now  ? 

Jaq.     Full  as  many  P[r]ayers 
As  the  most  zealous  Puritane  conceives 
Out  of  the  meditation  of  fat  Veal, 
Or  Birds  of  prey,  cram'd  Capons,  against  Players, 
And  to  as  good  a  tune  too,  but  against  her  : 
That  heaven  would   bless  me  from  her  :    mark  it  Pedro, 

43 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR    ACT  in 

If  this  house  be  not  tum'd   within   this  fortnight 

With   the   foundation   upward,   I'll   be  carted. 

My  comfort  is  yet,  that  those  A  monies^ 

That  came  to  back  her  cause,  those   Heathen   Whores, 

Had   their   Hoods  hallowed  with   Sack. 

Fed.     How   Div'lish  drunk  they  were  ! 

Ja[q].     And  how  they  tumbled,  Pedro,  Didst  thou   marke 
The  Countrey   Cavaliero  ? 

Fed.      Out  upon   her, 
How  she  turn'd  down  the  Bragget  ! 

Jaq.      I  that  sunk  her. 

Fed.     That  Drink  was  well  put  to  her  ;   What  a  Somer  salt 
When  the  chair  fel,  she  fetch'd,  with   her  heels  upward  ! 

Jaq.     And   what  a  piece  of  Landskip  she  discover'd  ! 

Fed.      Didst  mark  her,  when  her  hood  fell  in  the  Posset? 

Jaq.     Yes,  and  there  rid,  like  a  Dutch-Hoy ;  the  Tumbrel, 
When  she  had  got  her  ballasse. 

Fed.     That  I  saw  too. 

Jaq.      How  fain  she  would  have  drawn  on   Sophocles 
To  come  aboard,  and  how  she  simper'd  it — 

Fed.     I  warrant  her,  she  has  been  a  worthy  striker. 

Jaq.     I'th  heat  of  Summer  there  had  been  some  hope  on't. 

Fed.     Hang  her. 

Jaq.     She  ofFer'd  him  a  Harry-groat,  and  belcht  out, 
Her  stomach  being  blown  with  Ale,  such  Courtship, 
Upon  my  life  has  giv'n  him*  twenty  stools  since  : 
Believe  my  Calculation,  these  old  Women, 
When  they  are  tippled,  and  a  little  heated, 
Are  like  new  wheels,  they'l  roare  you  all  the  Town  ore 
Till  they  be  greas'd. 

Fed.     The  City   Cinque-a-pace 
Dame  Tost  and  Butter,  had  the  Bob  too  ? 

Jaq.     Yes, 

But  she  was  sullen  drunk,  and  given  to  filching, 
I  see  her  offer  at  a  Spoon  ;    my  Master — 
I  do  not  like  his  look,  I   fear  h'as  fasted 
For  all  this  preparation  ;    lets  steal  by  him.  [Exeunt. 


44 


Sc.  in          THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Sccena   'Tertia. 

Enter  Petruchio,  and  Sophocles. 

Soph.     Not  let  you  touch  her  all  this  night  ? 

Petru.     Not  touch  her. 

Soph.      Where  was  your  courage  ? 

Petru.     Where  was  her  obedience  ? 
Never  poor  Man  was  sham'd  so  ;    never  Rascal 
That  keeps  a  stud  of  Whores  was  us'd  so  basely. 

Soph.      Pray  you  tell  me  one  thing  truly  ; 
Do  you  love  her  ? 

Petru.     I  would  I   did  not,  upon  that  condition 
I  past  thee  half  my  Land. 

Soph.     It  may  be  then, 
Her  modesty  required  a  little  violence  ? 
Some  Women  love  to  struggle. 

Petru.      She  had   it, 

And  so  much  that  I  sweat  for't,  so  I  did, 
But  to  no  end  :    I   washt  an  Ethiope ; 
She  swore  my  force  might  weary  her,   but  win  her 
I  never  could,  nor  should,  till  she  consented  ; 
And   I   might  take  her  body  prisoner, 
But  for  her  mind  or  appetite — 

Soph.      'Tis  strange  ; 
This  woman  is  the  first  I  ever  read  of, 
Refus'd  a  warranted  occasion, 
And  standing  on  so  fair  termes. 

Petru.     I  shall  quit  her. 

Soph.     Us'd  you  no  more  art  ? 

Petru.     Yes,  I  swore  to  her, 
And  by  no  little  ones,  if  presently 
Without  more  disputation  on  the  matter, 
She  grew  not  nearer  to  me,  and  dispatcht  me 
Out  of  the   [pain]   I  was,  for  I  was  nettl'd, 
And  willingly,  and  eagerly,  and  sweetly, 
I  would  to  her  Chamber-maid,  and  in  her  hearing 
Begin  her  such  a  huntes-up. 

Soph.     Then  she  started  ? 

Petrh.     No  more  than  I  do  now  ;    marry  she  answered 

45 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR    ACT  in 

If  I   were  so  dispos'd,  she  could   not   help   it  ; 
But   there   was  one  call'd  J  agues,  a   poor   Butler 
One  that   might   well  content  a  single  woman. 

Soph.      And   he  should   tilt   her. 

Petru.     To  that  sence,  and   last 
She  bad   me  yet  these  six   nights  look  for  nothing, 
Nor  strive  to  purchase  it,  but  fair  good  night, 
And  so  good  morrow,  and  a  kiss  or  two 
To  close  my  stomach,  for  her  vow  had  seal'd   it, 
And  she  would  keep  it  constant. 

Soph.      Stay  ye,  stay  ye, 
Was  she  thus  when  you  woo'd  her  ? 

Petru.      Nothing  Sophocles, 
More  keenely  eager,  I  was  oft  afraid 
She  had   been  light,  and  easie,  she  would  showre 
Her  kisses  so  upon  me. 

Soph.     Then  I  fear 
An  other  spoke's  i'th   wheele. 

Petru.     Now  thou  hast  found  me, 
There  gnawes  my  Devil,  Sophocles,  O   patience 
Preserve  me  ;    that  I  make  her  not  example 
By  some  unworthy  way  ;    as  fleaing  her, 
Boyling,  or  making  verjuice,  drying  her. 

Soph.     I  hear  her. 

Petru.      Mark  her  then,  and  see  the  heir 
Of  spight  and  prodigality,  she  has  studied 
A  way  to  begger's  both,  and  by  this  hand 

[Maria  at  the  dore,  and  Servant  and  Woman. 
She  shall  be,  if  I  live,  a  Doxy. 

Soph.     Fy  Sir. 

Mar.     I  do  not  like  that  dressing,  tis  too  poor, 
Let  me  have  six  gold  laces,   broad  and  massy, 
And  betwixt  ev'ry  lace  a   rich  Embroydry, 
Line  the  Gown  through  with   Plush  perfum'd,  and   purffle 
All  the  sleeves  down  with  Pearl. 

Petru.     What  think  you  Sophocles. 
In  what  point  stands  my  state  now  ? 

Mar.     For  those  hangings 
Let'em  be  carried  where  I  gave  appointment, 
They  are  too  base  for  my  use,  and  bespeak 


Sc.  in          THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

New  Pieces  of  the  Civil  Wars  of  France^ 

Let  'em  be  large  and  lively,  and  all  silk  work, 

The  borders  Gold. 

Soph.     I   marry  sir,  this  cuts  it. 

Mar.     That  fourteen  yards  of  Satten  give  my  Woman, 
I  do  not  like  the  colour,  'tis  too  civil  : 
Trier's  too  much  Silk  i'th  lace  too  ;    tell  the  Dutchman 
That  brought  the   Mares,  he  must  with  all  speed  send  me 
An  other  suit  of  Horses,  and   by  all  means 
Ten  cast  of  Hawkes  for  th'  River,  I  much  care  not 
What  price  they   bear,  so  they  be  sound,  and  flying, 
For  the  next  Winter,  I  am  for  the  Country  ; 
And  mean  to  take  my  pleasure  ;    where's  the  Horseman  ? 

Petru.     She  means  to  ride  a  great  Horse. 

Soph.     With  a  side  sadle  ? 

Petru.     Yes,  and  shee'l  run  a  tilt  within  this  twelvemonth. 

Mar.      To  morrow  I'll  begin  to  learn,  but  pray  sir 
Have  a  great  care  he  be  an  easie  doer, 
'Twill  spoil  a  Scholar  else. 

Soph.     An  easie  doer, 
Did  you  hear  that  ? 

Petru.     Yes,  I  shall  meet  her  morals 
Ere  it  be  long  I  fear  not. 

Mar.     O  good  morrow. 

Soph.     Good  morrow  Lady,  how  is't  now. 

Mar.     Faith  sickly, 
This  house  stands  in  an  ill  ayr. 

Petru.     Yet  more  charges  ? 

Mar.    Subject  to  rots,  and  rheums;  out  on't,  'tis  nothing 
But  a  tild  fog. 

Petru.     What  think  you  of  the  Lodge  then  ? 

Mar.     I  like  the  seat,  but  'tis  too  little,  Sophocles 
Let  me  have  thy  opinion,  thou  hast  judgment. 

Petru.     'Tis  very  well. 

Mar.     What  if  I  pluck  it  down, 
And   build  a  square  upon   it,  with   two  courts 
Still  rising  from  the  entrance  ? 

Petru.     And  i'th   midst 
A  Colledge  for  young  Scolds. 

Mar.     And  to  the  Southward 

47 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR    ACT  in 

Take  in   a  Garden   of  some  twenty   Acres, 
And   cast   it   of  the   Italian   fashion,    hanging. 

Petru.      And  you  could  cast  your  self  so  too  ;    pray  Lady 
Will  not  this  cost   much   Money  ? 

Mar.      Some   five   thousand, 
Say  six  :    I'll   have  it   Battel'd   too. 

Petru.      And   gilt  ;    Maria, 

This  is  a   fearful   course  you  take,   pray   think  on't, 
Yc  j  are  a  Woman   now,  a  Wife,  and   his 
That   must   in   honesty,  and  justice  look  for 
Some  due  obedience  from   you. 

Afar.     That  bare  word 

Shall  cost  you   many  a  pound   more,   build   upon't  ; 
Tell   me  of  due  obedience  ?     What's  a  Husband  ? 
What  are  we  married  for,   to  carry  Sumpters  ? 
Are  we  not  one  peece  with  you,  and  as  worthy 
Our  own  intentions,  as  you  yours  ? 

Petru.     Pray  hear  me. 

Mar.     Take  two  small  drops  of  water,  equal   weigh'd, 
Tell  me  which   is  the  heaviest,  and  which  ought 
First  to  descend   in   duty  ? 

Petru.     You  mistake  me  ; 
I  urge  not  service  from  you,  nor  obedience 
In  way  of  duty,  but  of  love,  and  Credit  ; 
All  I  expect   is  but  a  noble  care 
Of  what  I  have  brought  you,  and  of  what  I  am, 
And  what  our  name  may  be. 

Mar.     That's  in  my  making. 

Petru.      'Tis  true  it  is  so. 

Mar.     Yes,  it  is  Petruchio, 

For  there  was  never  Man  without  our  molding, 
Without  our  stamp  upon   him,  and  our  justice, 
Left  any  thing  three  ages  after  him 
Good,  and  his  own. 

Soph.     Good  Lady  understand   him. 
Mar.     I  do  too  much,  sweet  Sophocles,  he's  one 
Of  a  most  spightful  self  condition, 
Never  at  peace  with  any  thing  but  Age, 
That  has  no  teeth  left  to  return  his  anger  : 
A  Bravery  dwells  in  his  blood  yet,  of  abusing 


Sc.  m          THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

His  first  good  wife  ;    he's  sooner  fire  than  powder, 
And  sooner  mischief. 

Petru.     If  I   be  so  sodain 
Do  not  you  fear  me  ? 

Mar.     No  nor  yet  care  for  you, 
And   if  it  may   be  lawful,  I  defie  you  : 

Petru.     Do's  this  become  you  now  ? 

Mar.     It  shall  become  me. 

Petru.     Thou  disobedient,  weak,  vain-glorious  woman, 
Were  I  but  half  so  wilful,  as  thou  spightful, 
I  should  now  drag  thee  to  thy  duty. 

Mar.     Drag  me  ? 

Petru.     But  I  am  friends  again  :    take  all  your  pleasure. 

Mar.     Now  you  perceive  him  Sophocles. 

Petru.     I  love  thee 
Above  thy  vanity,  thou  faithless  creature. 

Mar.     Would  I   had  been  so  happy  when   I   Married, 
But  to  have  met  an  honest  Man  like  thee, 
For  I  am  sure  thou  art  good,   I   know  thou  art  honest, 
A   hansome  hurtless  man,  a  loving  man, 
Though   never  a  penny  with  him  ;    and  those  eyes, 
That  face,  and  that  true  heart  ;    weare  this  for  my  sake, 
And  when  thou  think'st  upon  me  pity  me  : 
I  am  cast  away.  [Exit  Mar. 

Soph.     Why  how  now  man  ? 

Petru.     Pray  leave  me, 
And  follow  your  advices. 

Soph.     The  Man's  jealous  : 

Petru.     I  shall  find  a  time  ere  it  be  long,  to  ask  you 
One  or  two  foolish  questions. 

Soph.     I  shall  answer 

As  well  as  I  am  able,   when  you  call  me  : 
If  she  mean  true,   'tis  but  a  little  killing, 
And  if  I  do  not  venture  it's — 
Farewel  sir.  [Exit  Soph. 

Petru.     Pray  farewel.     Is  there  no  keeping 
A  Wife  to  one  mans  use  ?    no  wintering 
These  cattel  without  straying  ?    'Tis  hard   dealing, 
Very  hard  dealing,  Gentlemen,  strange  dealing  : 
Now  in  the  name  of  madness,  what  Star  raign'd, 

B.-F.  VIII.  D  49 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR    ACT  in 

What  dog-star,   bull,  or   bear-star,   when   I    married 

This  second   wife,   this  whirlwind,   that   takes  all 

Within   her  compass  ?    was  I   not  well   warn'd, 

(I  thought   I   had,  and   I   believe  I   know   it,) 

And   beaten  to   repentance  in   the   dayes 

Of  my  first  doting?    had   I   not   wife  enough 

To  turn   my  love  to  ?    did   I   want   vexation, 

Or  any  special  care  to  kill   my  heart  ? 

Had  I  not  ev'ry  morning  a  rare  breakfast, 

Mixt  with  a  learned  Lecture  of  ill   language, 

Louder  than    Tom  o'  Lincoln  ;    and  at  dinner, 

A  dyet  of  the  same  dish  ?    was  there  evening 

That  ere  past  over  us,  without  thou   Knave, 

Or  thou  Whore  for  digestion  ?    had  I  ever 

A  pull  at  this  same  poor  sport  men   run  mad  for 

But  like  a  Cur  I  was  fain  to  shew  my  teeth  first, 

And  almost  worry  her  ?    and  did  Heaven  forgive  me, 

And  take  this  Serpent  from  me  ?    and  am  I 

Keeping  tame  Devils  now  again  ?    my  heart  akes  ; 

Something  I  must  do  speedily  :    I'll  die, 

If  I   can  hansomely,  for  that's  the  way 

To  make  a  Rascal  of  her ;    I  am  sick, 

And  I'll  go  very  near  it,  but  I'll  perish.  [Exit. 

Sctena   Quarta. 

Enter  Livia,  Byancha,  Tranio,  and  Rowland. 

Liv.     Then  I  must  be  content,  Sir,  with  my  fortune. 

Row.     And   I  with   mine. 

Liv.     I  did  not  think,  a  look, 
Or  a  poor  word  or  two,  could  have  displanted 
Such  a  fix'd  constancy,  and  for  your  end  too.  (gaws> 

Row.     Come,  come,  I  know  your  courses  :  there's  your  gew- 
Your   Rings,  and   Bracelets,  and  the  Purse  you  gave  me, 
The  Money's  spent  in  entertaining  you 
At  Plays,  and  Cherry-gardens. 

Liv.     There's  your  Chain  too. 

But  if  you'll  give  me  leave,  I'll  wear  the  hair  still ; 
I  would  yet  remember  you. 

50 


Sc.  iv          THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Bya.      Give  him  his  love  wench  ; 
The  young  Man   has  imployment  for't  : 

Tra.     Fie  Rowland. 

Row.     You  cannot  fie  me  out  a  hundred  pound 
With  this  poor  plot  :    yet,  let  me  ne'r  see  day  more, 
If  something  do  not  struggle  strangely  in  me. 

Bya.     Young  Man,  let  me  talk  with  you. 

Row.     Well,  young  Woman. 

Bya.     This  was  your  Mistriss  once. 

Row.     Yes. 

Bya.     Are  ye  honest  ? 
I  see  you  are  young,  and  hansome. 

Row.     I  am  honest.  (judgement 

Bya.     Why  that's  well  said  :    and  there's  no  doubt  your 
Is  good  enough,  and  strong  enough   to  tell  you 
Who  are  your  foes,  and  friends  :    Why  did  you  leave  her  ? 

Row.     She  made  a  puppy  of  me. 

Bya.     Be  that  granted  : 
She  must  do  so  sometimes,  and  oftentimes ; 
Love  were  too  serious  else. 

Row.     A  witty  Woman. 

Bya.      Had  you  lov'd  me — 

Row.     I  would  I   had. 

Bya.     And  dearly  ; 

And  I  had  lov'd  you  so  :    you  may  love  worse  Sir, 
But  that  is  not  material. 

Row.     I  shall  loose. 

Bya.     Some  time  or  other  for  variety 
I  should  have  call'd  you  Fool,  or  Boy,  or  bid  you 
Play  with  the  Pages  :    but  have  lov'd  you  still, 
Out  of  all  question,  and  extreamly  too ; 
You  are  a  Man  made  to  be   loved  : 

Row.     This  Woman 
Either  abuses  me,  or  loves  me  deadly. 

Bya.     I'll  tell  you  one  thing,  if  I  were  to  choose 
A   Husband  to  mine  own  mind,   I   should  think 
One  of  your  Mothers  making  would  content  me, 
For  o'  my  Conscience  she  makes  good  ones. 

Row.     Lady, 
I'll  leave  you  to  your  commendations  : 

D  2  51 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR    ACT  in 

I  am   in  again,  The   Divel   take   their  tongues. 

Bya.     You  shall   not  goe. 

Row.      I   will  :    yet  thus  far   Livia, 
Your  Sorrow  may   induce  me  to  forgive  you, 
But  never  love  again  ;    if  I  stay  longer, 
I  have  lost  two  hundred  pound. 

Liv.     Good  Sir,   but  thus  much — 

Tra.     Turn   if  thou  beest  a  Man. 

Liv.     But  -one  kiss  of  you  ; 
One  parting  kiss,  and  I  am  gone  too. 

Row.     Come, 

I  shall  kiss  fifty  pound  away  at  this  clap  : 
We'll  have  one  more,  and  then  farewel. 

Liv.     Farewel. 

Bya.     Well,  go  thy  wayes,  thou  bear'st  a  kind  heart  with 

Tra.     H'as  made  a  stand.  (thee. 

Bya.     A  noble,  brave  young  fellow 
Worthy  a   Wench  indeed. 

Row.     I  will  :    I  will  not.  [Exit  Rowland. 

Tra.     He's  gone  :   but  shot  agen  ;   play  you  but  your  part, 
And  I  will  keep  my  promise  :    forty  Angels 
In  fair  gold,  Lady  :    wipe  your  eyes  :    he's  yours 
If  I  have  any  wit. 

Liv.     I'll  pay  the  forfeit. 

Bya.     Come  then,  let's  see  your  sister,  how  she  fares  now, 
After  her  skirmish  :    and  be  sure,  Moroso 
Be  kept  in  good  hand  ;    then  all's  perfect,  Livia.        [Exeunt. 

Sctzna   Quint  a. 

Enter  Jaques  and  Pedro. 

Ped.      O  Jaques,  J 'agues.  What  becomes  of  us  ? 
Oh   my  sweet  Master. 

yaq.      Run  for  a  Physitian, 
And  a  whole  peck  of  Pothecaries,   Pedro. 
He  will  die,  didle,  didle  die  :    if  they  come  not  quickly, 
And  bring  all  People  that  are  skilful 
In  Lungs  and  Livers :    raise  the  neighbours, 
And  all  the  dquavite-bottles  extant ; 

52 


Sc.  v  THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

And,  O  the  Parson,  Pedro  ;    O   the  Parson, 
A  little  of  his  comfort,  never  so  little  ; 
Twenty  to  one  you  find  him  at  the  Bush, 
There's  the  best  Ale. 

Ped.     I  fly.  [Exit  Pedro. 

Enter  Maria,  and  Servants. 

Mar.     Out  with  the  Trunks,  ho  : 
Why  are  you  idle  ?    Sirha,  up  to  th'  Chamber, 
And  take  the  Hangings  down,  and  see  the  Linnen 
Packt  up,  and  sent  away  within  this  half  hour. 
What,  Are  the  Carts  come  yet  ?    some  honest  body 
Help  down  the  Chests  of  Plate,  and  some  the  Wardrobe, 
Alass,  we  are  undone  else. 

yaq.     Pray  forsooth  ; 
And  I   beseech  ye,  tell  me,  is  he  dead  yet  ? 

Mar.     No,  but  is  drawing  on  :    out  with  the  Armour. 

yaq.     Then  I'll  go  see  him. 

Mar.     Thou  art  undone  then  Fellow  :   no  Man  that  has 
Been  neer  him  come  near  me. 

Enter  Sophocles,  and  Petronius. 

Soph.     Why  how  now  Lady,  What  means  this  ? 
Petron.     Now  daughter,   How  does  my  Son  ? 
Mar.     Save  all  you  can  for  Heavens  sake. 

Enter  Livia,   Byancha,  and  Tranio. 

Liv.     Be  of  good  comfort,  Sister. 

Mar.     O  my  Casket. 

Petron.     How  do's  thy  Husband  Woman  ? 

Mar.     Get  you  gon,  if  you  mean  to  save  your  lives  :   the 

Petron.     Stand  further  off,  I  prethee.  (Sickness. 

Mar.     Is  i'th  house  Sir, 
My  Husband  has  it  now  ; 
Alas  he  is  infecled,  and  raves  extreamly  : 
Give  me  some  Counsel  friends. 

Bya.     Why  lock  the  doors  up, 
And  send  him  in  a  Woman  to  attend  him. 

Mar.     I  have  bespoke  two  Women  ;    and  the  City 
Hath  sent  a  Watch  by  this  time  :    Meat  nor  Money 

53 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR    ACT  in 

He  shall   not   want,   nor   Prayers. 

Petron.      How   long   is't 
Since   it   first   took   him  ? 

Alar.      But   within   this  three   hours. 

Enter   Watch. 

I  am   frighted   from  my  wits  : — O   here's  the  Watch  ; 
Pray  doe  your  Office,   lock  the  doors  up  Friends, 
And   patience   be  his  Angel. 

Tra.     This  comes  unlook'd  for  : 

Mar.     I'll  to  the  lodge  ;  some  that  are  kind  and  love  me, 
I  know  will   visit  me.  [Petruchio  within. 

Petru.     Doe  you  hear  my  Masters  :   ho,  you  that  lock  the 

Petron.     'Tis  his  voice.  (doors  up. 

Tra.     Hold,  and  let's  hear  him. 

Petru.     Will  ye  starve   me  here  :    am  I  a  Traytor,  or  an 
Or  am  I  grown  infectious  ?  (Heretick. 

Petron.      Pray  sir,  pray. 

Petru.     I  am  as  well  as  you  are,  goodman  puppy. 

Mar.      Pray  have  patience. 
You  shall  want  nothing  Sir. 

Petru.     I  want  a  cudgel, 
And  thee,  thou  wickedness. 

Petron.     He  speaks  well  enough. 

Mar.     'Had  ever  a  strong  heart  Sir. 

Pttru.     Will  ye  hear  me  ? 
First  be  pleas'd 

To  think  I  know  ye  all,  and  can   distinguish 
Ev'ry  Mans  several  voice :    you  that  spoke  first, 
I  know  my  father  in  law ;    the  other   Tranioy 
And  I  heard   Sophocles  j    the  last,   pray  mark  me, 
Is  my  dam'd  Wife  Maria  : 
If 'any  Man  misdoubt  me  for  infected, 
There  is  mine  Arme,  let  any  Man  look  on't. 

Enter  Doftor  and  Pothecary. 

Doft.     Save  ye  Gentlemen. 

Petron.     O  welcome  Doctor, 
Ye  come  in  happy  time  ;    pray  your  opinion, 
What  think  you  of  his  pulse  ? 

54 


Sc.  v  THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Doff.     It  beats  with  busiest, 
And  shews  a  general  inflammation, 
Which  is  the  symptome  of  a  pestilent  Feaver, 
Take  twenty  ounces  from  him. 

Petru.     Take  a  Fool  ; 

Take  an  ounce  from  mine  arme,  and  Do6lor  Deuz-ace, 
I'll  make  a  close-stoole  of  your  Velvet  Costard. 

Gentlemen,  doe  ye  make  a  may-game  on  me  ? 

I  tell  ye  once  again,  I  am  as  sound, 

As  well,  as  wholsome,  and  as  sensible, 

As  any  of  ye  all :    Let  me  out  quickly, 

Or  as  I  am  a  Man,  I'll  beat  the  walls  down, 

And  the  first  thing  I  light  upon  shall  pay  for't. 

[Exit  Doff  or  and  Pothecary. 
Petro.     Nay,  we'll  go  with  you  Doftor. 
Mar.     'Tis  the  safest ; 
I  saw  the  Tokens  Sir. 

Petro.     Then  there  is  but  one  way. 
Petru.     Will  it  please  you  open  ? 
Tra.     His  fit  grows  stronger  still. 
Mar.     Let's  save  our  selves  Sir, 
He's  past  all  worldly  cure. 

Petro.     Friends  do  your  office. 
And  what  he  wants,  if  Money,  Love,  or  Labor, 
Or  any  way  may  win  it,  let  him  have  it. 
Farewell,  and  pray  my  honest  Friends —  [Exeunt. 

Petru.     Why  Rascals, 

Friends,  Gentlemen,  thou  beastly  Wife,  Jaques ; 
None  hear  me  ?    Who  at  the  door  there  ? 

1  Watch.     Think  I  pray  Sir, 

Whether  you  are  going,  and  prepare  your  self. 

2  Watch.     These    i^le    thoughts    disturb    you,    the    good 

Gentlewoman 

Your  Wife  has  taken  care  you  shall  want  nothing. 
Petru.     Shall  I  come  out  in  quiet  ?    answer  me, 
Or  shall  I  charge  a  Fowling-Piece,  and  make 
Mine  own  way  ;    two  of  ye  I  cannot  miss, 
If  I  miss  three  ;    ye  come  here  to  assault  me. 
I  am  as  excellent  well,  I  thank  Heaven  for't, 
And  have  as  good  a  stomach  at  this  instant — 

55 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE.   OR    ACT  in 

2  Jr<itcb.     That's  an   ill   sign. 

I    Jf'atch.      He   draws  on  ;    he's  a   dead   Man. 

Pftru.      And   sleep  as  soundly  ;    Will   ye  look  upon   me  ? 

1  Jfatch.      Do  you   want   Pen   and   Ink  ?    while  you  have 
Settle  your  state.  (sense  sir, 

Petru.      Sirs,   I  am   well,  as  you  are  ; 
Or  any  Rascal   living. 

2  Watch.     Would  you  were  Sir. 

Petru.      Look  to  your  selves,  and   if  you  love  your  lives, 
Open  the  door,  and  fly  me,  for  I  shoot  else  ; 

-I'll  shoot,  and  presently,  chain-bullets  ; 
And  under  four  I  will  not  kill. 

1  Watch.      Let's  quit   him, 

It  may   be  it  is  a  trick  :    he's  dangerous. 

2  Watch.     The  Devil   take  the  hinmost,   I   cry. 

\_Exit  Watch  running. 

Enter  Petruchio  with  a  Piece. 

Petru.      Have  among  ye  ; 

The  door  shall  open  too,  I'll  have  a  fair  shoot ; 
Are  ye  all  gone  ?    tricks  in   my  old  dayes,  crackers 
Put  now  upon   me  ?    and,   by  Lady   Green-sleeves  ? 
Am  I  grown  so  tame  after  all  my  triumphs  ? 
But  that  I  should  be  thought  mad,  if  I   rail'd, 
As  much   as  they  deserve,  against  these  Women, 
I  would  now  rip  up,  from  the  primitive  Cuckold, 
All  their  arch-villanies,  and  all   their  doubles, 
Which  are  more  than  a  hunted   Hare  ere  thought  on  : 
When  a  Man  has  the  fairest,  and  the  sweetest 
Of  all  their  Sex,  and  as  he  thinks  the  noblest, 
What  has  he  then  ?    and  I'll  speak  modestly, 
He  has  a  Quartern-ague,  that  shall  shake 
All  his  estate  to  nothing ;    never  cur'd, 
Nor  never  dying  ;    He'as  a  ship  to  venture 
His  fame,  and  credit  in,  which   if  he  Man  not 
With  more  continual  labour  than  a  Gaily 
To  make  her  tith,  either  she  grows  a  Tumbrel, 
Not  worth   the  Cloth  she  wears  ;    or  springs  more  leakes 
Than  all  the  fame  of  his  posterity 
Can  ever  stop  again  :    I  could  raile  twenty  dayes  ; 

56 


ACT  iv        THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Out  on  'em,  Hedge-hogs, 

He  that  shall  touch  'em,  has  a  thousand  thorns 

Runs  through   his  fingers  :    If  I  were  unmarried, 

I  would  do  any  thing  below  repentance, 

Any  base  dunghill  slavery ;    be  a  Hang-man, 

Ere  I  would  be  a  Husband  :    O  the  thousand, 

Thousand,  ten  thousand  wayes  they  have  to  kill  us  ! 

Some  fall  with  t[o]o  much  stringing  of  the  Fiddles, 

And  those  are  fools  ;    some,  that  they  are  not  suffer'd, 

And  those  are  Maudlin-lovers  :    some,  like  Scorpions, 

They  poyson  with  their  tails,  and  those  are  Martyrs ; 

Some  dye  with  doing  good,  those  Benefactors, 

And  leave  'em  land  to  leap  away  :    some  few, 

For  those  are  rarest,  they  are  said  to  kill 

With  kindness,  and  fair  usage  ;    but  what  they  are 

My  Catalogue  discovers  not  :    only  'tis  thought 

They  are  buried  in  old  Walls,  with  their  heels  upward. 

I  could  raile  twenty  dayes  together  now. 

I'll  seek  'em  out,  and  if  I  have  not  reason, 

And  very  sensible,  why  this  was  done, 

I'll  go  a  birding  yet,  and  some  shall  smart  for't.  [Exit. 

Attus   Quartus.     Scczna  Prima. 

Enter  Moroso  and  Petronius. 

Mor.     That  I  do  love  her,  is  without  all  question, 
And  most  extremely,  dearly,  most  exaclly  ; 
And  that  I  would  ev'n  now,  this  present  Monday, 
Before  all  others,  Maids,  Wives,  Women,  Widows, 
Of  what  degree  or  calling,   Marry  her, 
As  certain  too  ;    but  to  be  made  a  Whim-wham, 
A  Jib-crack,  and  a  Gentleman  o'th  first  house 
For  all  my  kindness  to  her. 

Petron.     How  you  take  it  ? 

Thou  get  a  Wench,  thou  get  a  dozen  night-caps  ? 
Wouldst  have  her  come,  and  lick  thee  like  a  Calfe, 
And  blow  thy  nose,  and  buss  thee  ? 

Mor.     Not  so  neither. 

Petron.     What  wouldst  thou  have  her  do  ? 

57 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR    ACT  iv 

Mor.      Do   as   she    [shjould   do  ; 

Put  on   a  clean   Smock,  ami   to  Church,  and   Marry, 
And   then   to   Bed   a   Gods   name,   thi^   is   fair   play, 
And   keeps   the    Kings   peace,   let   her   leave   her   bobs, 
I   have   had   too  many  of  them,   and   her  quillets, 
She  is  as  nimble  that   way  as  an   P'e[le]  ; 
But   in   the  way  she  ought  to   me  especially, 
A  sow  of  Lead   is  swifter. 

Petron.     Quoat   your   griefs  down. 

Mor.     Give  fair  quarter,   I  am   old  and  crasie, 
And  subject  to  much   fumbling,   I   confess  it  ; 
Yet  something  I  would   have  that's  warme,  to  hatch   me  : 
But  understand   me  I   would   have   it  so, 
I   buy  not   more  repentance   in   the  bargain 
Than  the  ware's  worth   I  have  ;    if  you  allow  me 
Worthy  your  Son-in-Law,  and  your  allowance, 
Do  it  a  way  of  credit  ;    let  me  show  so, 
And  not   be  troubled   in   my  visitations, 
With   blows,  and  bitterness,  and  down-right  railings, 
As  if  we  were  to  couple  like  two  Cats, 
With   clawing,  and  loud  clamour  : 

Petron.     Thou  fond   Man. 
Hast  thou  forgot  the  Ballad,  crabbed  age, 
Can   May  and   ^January  match   together, 
And  nev'r  a  storm   between  'em  ?    say  she  abuse  thee, 
Put  case  she  doe. 

Mor.     Well. 

Petron.     Nay,  believe  she  do's. 

Mor.     I  do  believe  she  do's. 

Petron.      And  div'lishly  : 
Art  thou  a  whit  the  worse  ? 

Mor.     That's  not  the  matter, 
I   know,   being  old,  tis  fit  I  am  abus'd  ; 
I  know   'tis  hansome,  and  I  know  moreover 
I  am  to  love  her  for't. 

Petron.     Now  you  come  to  me. 

Mor.      Nay  more  than  this  ;    I  find  too,  and  find  certain, 
What  Gold   I  have,   Pearle,   Bracelets,   Rings,   or  Owches, 
Or  what  she  can  desire,  Gowns,  Petticotes, 
Wastcotes,  Embroydered-stockings,  ScarfFs,  Cals,  Feathers, 

58 


Sc.  i  THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Hats,  five  pound  Garters,  Muffs,  Masks,  Ruffs,  and  Ribands, 
I  am  to  give  her  for't. 

Petron.     'Tis  right,  you  are  so. 

Mor.     But  when  I  have  done  all  this,  and  think  it  duty, 
Is't  requisit  an  other  bore  my  nostrils  ? 
Riddle  me  that. 

Petron.     Go  get  you  gone,  and  dreame 
She's  thine  within  these  two  dayes,  for  she  is  so  ; 
The  Boy's  beside  the  saddle  :    get  warm  broths, 
And  feed  a  pace ;    think  not  of  worldly  business, 
It  cools  the  blood  ;    leave  off  your  tricks,  they  are  hateful, 
And  meere  fore-runners  of  the  ancient  measures  ; 
Contrive  your  beard  o'th  top  cut  like  Verdugoes ; 
It  shows  you  would  be  wise,  and  burn  your  night-cap, 
It  looks  like  half  a  winding-sheet,  and  urges 
From  a  young  Wench  nothing  but  cold  repentance  : 
You  may  eate  Onyons,  so  you'l  not  be  lavish. 

Mor.     I  am  glad  of  that. 

Petron.     They  purge  the  blood,  and  quicken, 
But  after  'em,  conceive  me,  sweep  your  mouth, 
And  where  there  wants  a  tooth,  stick  in  a  clove. 

Mor.     Shall  I  hope  once  again,  say't. 

Petro.     You  shall  Sir  : 
And  you  shall  have  your  hope. 

Moro.     Why  there's  a  match  then. 

Enter  Byancha  and  Tranio. 

Byan.  You  shall  not  find  me  wanting,  get  you  gone. 

Here's  the  old  Man,  he'l  think  you  are  plotting  else 

Something  against  his  new  Son.  [Exit  Tranio. 

Moro.  Fare  ye  well  Sir.  [Exit  Moroso. 

Byan.     And  evry  Buck  had  his  Doe, 
And  ev*ry   Cuckold  a  Bell  at  his   Toe  : 
Oh  what  sport  should  we  have  then,  then   Boyes  then, 

Oh  what  sport  should  we  have  then  ? 

Petro.     This  is  the  spirit,  that  inspires  'em  all. 

By.     Give  you  good  ev'n. 

Petro.     A  word  with  you  Sweet  Lady. 

59 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR    ACT  iv 

By.     I  am  very   hasty,  Sir. 

Petro.      So  you   were   ever. 

B\.      Well,   What's  your  will  ? 

Pftro.      Was   not  your  skilful   hand 
In   this   last  stratagem  ?     Were   not   your   mischiefs 
Eeking  the  matter  on  ? 

By.      In's  shutting   up  ? 
Is  that   it  ? 

Petro.      Yes. 

By.     I'll  tell  you. 

Petro.      Doe. 

By.     And  truly. 

Good  old  Man,  I   do  grieve  exceeding  much, 
I  fear  too  much. 

Petro.     I  am  sorry  for  your  heaviness. 
Belike   you  can  repent  then  ? 

By.     There  you  are   wide  too. 

Not  that  the  thing  was  done  (conceive  me  rightly) 
Do's  any  way  molest  me. 

Petro.     What  then   Lady  ? 

By.     But  that  I  was  not  in't,  there's  my  sorrow,  there 
Now  you  understand  me,   for  I'll  tell  you, 
It  was  so  sound  a  piece,  and  so  well  carried, 
And  if  you  mark  the  way,  so  hansomely, 
Of  such  a  heighth,  and  excellence,  and  art 
I  have  not  known  a  braver  ;    for  conceive  me, 
When  the  gross  fool  her  'Husband   would  be  sick — 

Petro.     Pray  stay. 

By.     Nay,  good,  your  patience  :    and  no  sence  for't, 
Then  stept  your  daughter  in. 

Petro.     By  your  appointment. 

By.      I   would   it   had,  on   that  condition 
I  had  but  one  half  smock,  I  like  it  so  well  ; 
And  like  an  excellent  cunning  Woman,  cur'd   me 
One  madness  with  another,   which   was  rare, 
And  to  our  weak  beliefs,  a  wonder. 

Petro.     Hang  ye, 

For  surely,  if  your  husband  look  not  to  ye, 
I  know  what  will. 

By.     I  humbly  thank  your  worship. 

60 


Sc.  i  THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

And  so  I  take  my  leave. 

Petro.     You  have  a  hand  I  hear  too. 

By.     I  have  two  Sir. 

Petro.     In  my  young  daughters  business. 

By.     You  will  find  there 
A  fitter  hand  than  mine,  to  reach  her  frets, 
And  play  down  diddle  to  her. 

Petro.     I  shall  watch  ye. 

By.     Do. 

Petro.      And  I  shall  have  Justice. 

By.     Where  ? 

Petro.     That's  all  one  ; 
I  shall  be  with  you  at  a  turne  hence  forward. 

By.     Get  you  a  Posset  too ;    and  so  good  ev'n  Sir. 

[Exeunt. 

Enter  Petruchio,  Jaques,  and  Pedro. 

Jag*      And  as  I  told  your  worship,  all  the  hangings, 
Brass,  Pewter,  Plate,  ev'n  to  the  very  looking-glasses. 

Ped.     And  that  that  hung  for  our  defence,  the  Armor, 
And  the  March   Beere  was  going  too  :    Oh  yaques 
What  a  sad  sight  was  that ! 

Jag.      Even  the  two  Rundlets, 
The  two  that  was  our  hope,  of  Muskadel, 
(Better  nev'r  tongue  tript  over)  those  two  Cannons, 
To  batter  brawn  withal  at  Christmass,  Sir, 
Ev'n  those  two  lovely  Twyns,  the  Enemy 
Had  almost  cut  off  clean. 

Petru.     Goe  trim  the  House  up. 
And  put  the  things  in  order  as  they  were. 

\_Ex.  Ped.  and  Jaq. 

I  shall  find  time  for  all  this  :    could  I  find  her 
But  constant  any  way,  I   had  done  my  business  ; 
Were  she  a  Whore  direftly,  or  a  Scold, 
An  unthrift,  or  a  Woman   made  to  hate  me, 
I  had  my  wish,  and  knew  which  way  to  rayne  her  : 
But  while  she  shews  all  these,  and  all  their  losses, 
A  kind  of  linsey  woolsey,  mingled  mischief 
Not  to  be  ghest  at,  and  whether  true,  or  borrowed, 

61 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR    ACT  iv 

Enter   Maria. 

Not  certain   neither,  What  a  hap   had   I, 

And   what  a  tydie  fortune,   when   my   fate 

Flung  me  upon   this  Bear-whelp  !    here  she  comes, 

Now,   if  she  have  a  colour,   for  the  fault   is 

A  cleanly  one,  upon   my  Conscience 

I  shall   forgive  her  yet,  and   find  a  something 

Certain,   I   Married   for  :    her  wit  :    I'll   marke  her. 

Afar.     Not  let  his  Wife  come   near  him  in  his  sickness  ? 
Not  come  to  comfort  him  ?    she  that  all   Laws 
Of  heaven,  and   Nations  have  ordain'd  his  second, 
Is  she  refus'd  ?    and  two  old   Paradoxes, 
Pieces  of  five  and   fifty,  without  faith 
Clapt  in   upon   him  ?    h'as  a  little  pet, 
That  all  young  Wives  must  follow  necessary, 
Having  their  Maiden-heads — 

Petru.     This  is  an  Axiome 
I  never  heard  before. 

Mar.     Or  say  Rebellion, 

If  we  durst  be  so  foul,  which  two  fair  words 
Alas  win  us  from,  in  an  hour,  an  instant, 
We  are  so  easie,  make  him  so  forgetful 
Both  of  his  reason,  honesty,  and  credit, 
As  to  deny  his  Wife  a  visitation  ? 
His  Wife,  that  (though  she  was  a  little   foolish,) 
Lov'd  him,   Oh   Heaven   forgive  her  for't  !    nay  doted, 
Nay  had  run   mad,  had  she  not  married  him. 

Petru.     Though  I  do  know  this  falser  than   the  Devil, 
I  cannot  choose  but  love  it. 

Mar.     What  do  I  know 

But  those  that  came  to  keep  him,  might  have  kill'd  him, 
In  what  a  case  had  I  been  then  ?    I  dare  not 
Believe  him  such  a  base,  debosh'd  companion, 
That  one   refusal  of  a  tender  Maid 
Would  make  him  faign  this  Sickness  out  of  need, 
And  take  a  Keeper  to  him  of  Fourscore 
To  play  at  Billiards ;    one  that  mew'd  content 
And  all  her  teeth  together  ;    not  come  near  him  ? 

Petru.    This  Woman  would  have  made  a  most  rare  Jesuite, 

62 


Sc.  i  THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

She  can  prevaricate  on  any  thing : 

There  was  not  to  be  thought  a  way  to  save  her 

In  all  imagination,  beside  this. 

Mar.     His  unkind  dealing,  which  was  worst  of  all, 
In  sending,  who  knowes  whether,  all  the  plate, 
And  all  the  houshold-stuffe,  had  I  not  crost  it, 
By  a  great  providence,  and  my  friends  assistance 
Which  he  will  thank  me  one  day  for  :    alas, 
I  could  have  watch'd  as  well  as  they,  have  serv'd  him 
In  any  use,   better,  and  willinger. 

The  Law  commands  me  to  do  it,  love  commands  me, 
And   my  own  duty  charges  me. 

Petru.     Heav'n   bless  me. 

And  now  I   have  said  my  Prayers,  I'll  go  to  her  : 
Are  you  a   Wife  for  any  Man  ? 

Mar.      For  you  Sir. 

If  I  were  worse,  I  were  better  ;    That  you  are  well, 
At  least,  that  you  appear  so,  I  thank  Heaven, 
Long  may  it  hold,  and  that  you  are  here,  I  am  glad  too  ; 
But  that  you  have  abus'd  me  wretchedly, 
And  such  a  way  that  shames  the  name  of  Husband, 
Such  a  malicious  mangy  way,  so  mingled, 
(Never  look  strangely  on  me,  I  dare  tell  you) 
With  breach  of  honesty,  care,  kindness,  manners. 

Petru.     Holla,  you  kick  too  fast. 

Mar.     Was  I  a  stranger  ? 
Or  had  I  vow'd   perdition  to  your  person  ? 
Am  I  not  Married  to  you,  tell  me  that  ? 

Petru.     I  would  I  could  not  tell  you. 

Mar.     Is  my  presence, 

The  stock  I  come  of,  which  is  worshipful, 
If  I  should  say  Right  worshipful,  I  ly'd  not, 
My  Grandsire  was  a   Knight. 

Petru.     O'the  Shire  ? 

Mar.     A   Soldier, 

Which  none  of  all  thy  Family  e're  heard  of, 
But  one  conductor  of  thy  name,  a  Grasier 
That  ran  away  with  pay  :    or  am  I  grown 
(Because  I  have  been  a  little  peevish  to  you, 
Onely  to  try  your  temper)  such  a  dogge-leech 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR    ACT  iv 

I   could   not   he  admitted   to  your  presence  ? 

Pt'tru.      If  I   endure   this,   hang   me. 

Mar.      And   two  deaths   heads, 
Two   Hurry  Groats,   that   had   their  faces  worn, 
Almost   their   names   away   too. 

Pt'tru.     Now   hear   me. 
For   I   will  stay   no   longer. 

Mar.     This  you  shall  : 
How  ever  you  shall  think   to  flatter  me, 
For  this  offence,  which   no  submission 
Can   ever  mediate   for,  you'l   find   it  so, 
What  ever  you  shall   do  by   intercession, 
What  you  can  offer,   what  your  Land  can   purchase, 
What  all  your  friends,  or  families  can  win, 
Shall   be  but  this,   not  to  forswear  your  knowledge, 
But  ever   to  forbear  it  :    now  your   will  Sir. 

Petru.     Thou  art  the  subtlest  Woman   I  think  living, 
I  am  sure  the  lewdest ;    now  be  still,  and   mark  me  ; 
Were  I   but  any  way  addicled  to  the  Devil, 
I  should   now  think   I   had   met  a   play-fellow 
To  profit  by,  and  that  way  the  most  learned 
That  ever  taught  to  murmur.      Tell   me  thou, 
Thou  most  poor,  paltry  spiteful  Whore  :    Do  you  cry  ? 
I'll  make  you  roare,   before  I  leave. 

Mar.     Your  pleasure. 

Petru.     Was  it  not  sin  enough,  thou  Fruiterer, 
Full  of  the  fall  thou  eat'st  :    thou  Devils  Broker, 
Thou  Seminary  of  all  sedition, 

Thou  Sword  of  veng'ance,  with  a  thred  hung  o're  us, 
Was  it  not  sin   enough,  and  wickedness 
In  full  abundance  ?    Was  it  not  vexation 
At  all  points,  cap  a  pe  ?    nay,  I  shall  pinch   you, 
Thus  like  a  rotten   Rascal  to  abuse 
The  name  of  Heaven,  the  tye  of  Marriage, 
The  honour  of  thy  Friends  ;    the  expectation 
Of  all  that  thought  thee  virtuous,  with   Rebellion, 
Childish  and   base  Rebellion,   but  continuing 
After  forgiveness  too,  and  worse,  your  mischief, 
And  against  him,  setting  the  hope  of  Heaven   by, 
And  the  dear  reservation  of  his  honor 


Sc.  i  THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Nothing  above  ground  could  have  won  to  hate  thee  : 
Well,  goe  thy  wayes. 

Mar.     Yes. 

Petru.     You  shall  hear  me  out  first  : 
What  punishment  may'st  thou  deserve,  thou  thing, 
Thou  Idle  thing  of  nothing,  thou  pulPd  Primrose, 
That  two  hours  after,  art  a  Weed,  and  wither'd, 
For  this  last  flourish  on  me  ?    am  I  one 
Selected  out  of  all  the   Husbands  living, 
To  be  so  ridden  by  a  Tit  of  ten  pence, 
Am  I  so  blind  and  Bed-rid  ?    I  was  mad, 
And  had  the  Plague,  and  no  Man  must  come  near  me, 
I  must  be  shut  up,  and  my  substance  bezePd, 
And  an  old  Woman  watch  me. 

Mar.     Well  Sir,  well, 
You  may  well  glory  in't. 

Petru.     And  when   it  comes  to  opening,  'tis  my  plot, 
I  must  undoe  my  self  forsooth  :    do'st  hear  me  ? 
If  I  should  beat  thee  now,  as  much  may  be, 
Do'st  thou  not  well  deserve  it,  o'  thy  Conscience, 
Do'st  thou  not  cry,  come  beat  me  ? 

Mar.     I  defie  you. 

And  my  last  loving  tears  farewell  :    the  first  stroke, 
The  very  first  you  give  me,  if  you  dare  strike, 
Try  me,  and  you  shall  find  it  so,  for  ever, 
Never  to  be  recall'd  :    I  know  you  love  me, 
Mad  till  you  have  enjoy'd  me  ;    I  do  turne 
Utterly  from  you,  and  what  Man  I  meet  first 
That  has  but  spirit  to  deserve  a  favour, 
Let  him  bear  any  shape,  the  worse  the  better. 
Shall  kill  you,  and  enjoy  me  ;    what  I  have  said 
About  your  foolish  sickness,  e're  you  have  me 
As  you  would  have  me,  you  shall  swear,  is  certain, 
And  challenge  any  Man,  that  dares  deny  it  ; 
And  in  all  companies  approve  my  actions, 
And  so  farewell  for  this  time.  [Ex.  Mar. 

Petru.     Grief  goe  with  thee, 
If  there  be  any  witchcrafts,  herbes,  or  potions, 
Saying  my  Prayers  backward,  Fiends,  or  Fayries 
That  can  again  unlove  me,  I  am  made.  [Exit. 

B.-F.  VIII.  E  65 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR    ACT  iv 
Sccena  Secunda. 

Enter  Byancha,  and  Tranio. 

Tra.      Mistress,  you   must   do   it. 

By.     Are  the  Writings  ready   I   told   you  of? 

Tra.      Yes  they  are   ready,  but   to  what  use  I  know  not. 

B\.      Y'are  an   Ass,  you  must   have  all   things  constru'd. 

Tra.     Yes,  and   pierc'd   too, 
Or  I  find  little  pleasure. 

By.     Now  you  are  knavish, 
Goe  too,   fetch   Rowland  hither  presently, 
Your  Twenty   [pound]   lies  bleeding  else  :    she  is  married 
Within   these  twelve  hours,   if  we  cross  it  not, 
And  see  the  Papers  of  one  size. 

Tra.     I   have  ye. 

By.     And  for  disposing  of  'em. 

Tra.     If  I  fail  you 

Now  I  have  found  the  way,  use  Marshal  Law 
And  cut  my  head  off  with  a  hand  Saw  : 

By.     Well  Sir. 

Petronius  and  Moroso  I'll  see  sent  for, 
About  your  business  ;    goe. 

Tra.     I  am  gone.  [Ex.  Tra. 

Enter  Livia. 

By.     Ho  Livia. 

Liv.     Who's  that  ? 

By.     A  friend  of  yours,   Lord  how  you  look  now, 
As  if  you  had  lost  a  Carrack. 

Liv.      O   Byancha. 
I  am  the  most  undone,  unhappy  Woman. 

By.     Be  quiet  Wench,  thou  shalt  be  done,  and  done, 
And   done,  and  double  done,  or  all  shall  split  for't, 
No  more  of  these  minc'd  passions,  they  are  mangy, 
And  ease  thee  of  nothing,  but  a  little  Wind, 
An  Apple  will  do  more  :    thou  fear'st  Moroso. 

Liv.     Even  as  I  fear  the  Gallowes. 

By.     Keep  thee  there  still. 
And  you  love  Rowland  ?    say. 

Liv.     If  I  say  not, 

66 


Sc.  in         THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

I  am  sure  I  lye. 

By.     What  wouldst  thou  give  that  Woman, 
In  spight  of  all  his  anger,  and  thy  fear, 
And  all  thy  Fathers  policy,  that  could 
Clap  ye  within  these  two  nights  quietly 
Into  a  Bed  together  ? 

Liv.     How  ? 

By.     Why  fairly, 

At  half  sword  man  and  wife  :    now  the  red  blood  comes, 
I  marry  now  the  matters  chang'd. 

Liv.     Byanckd) 
Methinks  you  should  not  mock  me. 

By.     Mock  a  pudding. 
I  speak  good  honest  English,  and  good  meaning. 

Liv.     I  should  not  be  ungrateful  to  that  Woman. 

By.     I  know  thou  would'st  not,  follow  but  my  Councel, 
And  if  thou  hast  him  not,  despite  of  fortune 
Let  me  nev'r  know  a  good  night  more  ;    you  must 
Be  very  sick  o'th  instant. 

Liv.     Well,  what  follows  ? 

By.     And  in  that  sickness  send  for  all  your  friends, 
Your  Father,  and  your  feaver  old  Morosoy 
And  Rowland  shall  be  there  too. 

Liv.     What  of  these  ? 

By.      Do  you  not  twitter  yet  ?    of  this  shall   follow 
That  which  shall   make  thy  heart  leap,  and  thy  lips 
Venture  as  many  kisses,  as  the  Merchants 
Doe  Dollars  to  the  East-Indies :    you  shall  know  all, 
But  first  walke  in,  and  practise,  pray  be  sick. 

Liv.     I  do  believe  you  :    and  I  am  sick. 

By.     Doe, 

To  bed  then,  come,  I'll  send  away  your  Servants 
Post  for  your  Fool,  and  Father  ;    and  good  fortune, 
As  we  meane  honesty,  now  strike  an  up-shot.         [Ex[e]unt. 

Sc&na  T'ertia. 

Enter  Tranio,  and  Rowland. 

Tra.     Nay,  on  my  conscience,  I  have  lost  my  Money, 
But  that's  all  one  :    I'll  never  more  perswade  you, 

E  2  67 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR    ACT  iv 

I  see  you  are  resolute,  and   I  commend  you. 

Row.      But   did   she  send   for   me  ? 

Tra.      You   dare   believe   me. 

Row.     I  cannot  tell,  you   have  your  wayes  for  profit 
Allow'd   you   Tranioy  as  well  as  I 
Have  to  avoid  'em   [feare]. 

Tra.     No,  on   my  word,  Sir, 
I  deale  direclly  with  you. 

Enter  Servant. 

Row.     How  now  fellow, 
Whither  Post  you  so  fast  ? 

Ser.     O  sir  my  Master, 
Pray  did  you  see  my   Master  ? 

Row.     Why  your  Master  ? 

Ser.     Sir  his  Jewel. 

Row.     With   the  gilded   Button  ? 

Serv.     My  pretty   Mistress  Livia. 

Row.     What  of  her  ? 

Serv.     Is  falen  sick  o'th  suddain. 

Row.     How  o'th  sullens  ? 

Ser.     O'th  suddain  Sir,  I  say,  very  sick  : 

Row.     It  seems  she  hath  got  the  toothach  with  raw  Apples. 

Ser.    It  seemes  you  have  got  the  headach,  fare  you  well  Sir. 
You  did  not  see  my  Master  ? 

Row .     Who  told  you  so  ? 

Tra.     No,  no,  he  did  not  see  him. 

Row.     Farewell  Blew-bottle.  [Ex.  Servant. 

What  should  her  sickness  be  ? 

Tra.     For  you  it  may  be. 

Row.     Yes,  when  my  braines  are  out,  I  may  believe  it, 
Never  before  I  am  sure  :    Yet  I  may  see  her ; 
'Twill  be  a  point  of  honesty  : 

Tra.     It  will  so. 

Row.     It  may  be  not  too  :    you  would    fain  be  fing'ring 
This  old  sin-offring  of  two  hundred,   Tranio, 
How  daintily,  and  cunningly  you  drive  me 
Up  like  a  Deer  to'th   toyle,  yet  I  may  leap   it, 
And  what's  the  Woodman  then  ? 

Tra.     A  loser  by  you. 

68 


Sc.  in         THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Speak,  Will  you  go  or  not  ?    to  me  'tis  equal. 

Row.     Come,  What  goes  less  ? 

Tra.     Nay,  not  a  penny  Rowland. 

Row.     Shall  I  have  liberty  of  conscience, 
Which,  by  interpretation,  is  ten  kisses  ? 
Hang  me  if  I  affe6t  her  :    yet  it  may  be, 
This  whorson  manners  will  require  a  strugling, 
Of  two  and  twenty,  or  by'r-Lady  thirty. 

Tra.     By'r-Lady  I'll  require  my  wager  then, 
For  if  you  kiss  so  often,  and  no  kindness, 
I   have  lost  my  speculation,  I'll  allow  you — 

Row .     Speak  like  a  Gamster  now. 

Tra.     It  may   be  two. 

Row.     Under  a  dozen   Tranio,  there's  no  setting, 
You  shall  have  forty  shillings,  winck  at  small  faults. 
Say  I  take  twenty,  come,  by  all  that's  honest 
I  do  it  but  to  vex  her. 

Tra.     I'll  no  by-blowes. 

If  you  can  love  her,  doe,  if  you  can,  hate  her, 
Or  any  else  that  loves  you — 

Row.     Prethee  Tranio. 

Tra.     Why  farewell  twenty  pound,  'twill  not  undoe  me  ; 
You  have  my  resolution. 

Row.     And  your  Money, 

Which  since  you  are  so  stubborn,  if  I  forfeit, 
Make  me  a  Jack  o'  Lent,  and   break  my  shins 
For  untag'd  Points  and  Compters  :    I'll  goe  with  you, 
But  if  thou  gett'st  a  penny  by  the  bargain  ; 
A  parting  kiss  is  lawful  ? 

Tra.     I  allow  it. 

Row.     Knock  out  my  brains  with  Apples  ;  yet  a  bargain : 

Tra.     I   tell  you,  I'll  no  bargains  ;    win,  and  wear  it. 

Row.     Thou  art  the  strangest  fellow. 

Tra.     That's  all  one. 

Row.     Along  then,  twenty  pound  more  if  thou  dar'st, 
I  give  her  not  a  good  word. 

Tra.     Not  a  Penny.  [Exeunt. 


69 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR    ACT  iv 

Quarta. 


Enter  Pctruchio,   Jaques,  and  Pedro. 

Petru.      Prethee,  entreat   her  come,  I  will  not  trouble  her 
Above  a  word   or  two  ;    ere   I  endure  [Exit  Pedro. 

This  life,  and  with   a  Woman,  and  a  vow'd   one 
To  all  the  mischiefs  she  can   lay  upon   me, 
I'll   go  to  Plough    [again],  and  eate   Leeke   Porridge  ; 
Begging's  a  pleasure  to't,  not  to  be  number'd  : 
No  there  be  other  Countries  Jaques  for  me,  and  other  people, 

yea,  and  other  women. 

If  I   have  need,  here's  Money,  there's  your  ware, 
Which   is  faire  dealing,  and  the  Sun,  they  say, 
Shines  as   warme  there,  as  here,  and  till   I   have  lost 
Either  my  self,  or  her,  I  care  not  whether 
Nor  which  first. 

Jaq.     Will  your  worship  hear  me  ? 

Petru.     And  utterly  outworne  the  memory 
Of  such  a  curse  as  this,  none  of  my  Nation 
Shall  ever  know  me   more. 

Jaq.      Out  alas  Sir. 
What  a  strange  way  doe  you  run  ! 

Petru.     Any  way, 
So  I  out-run  this  Rascal. 

Jaq.     Me  thinks  now, 
If  your  good  worship  could  but  have  the  patience. 

Petru.     The  patience,  why  the  patience  ? 

Jaq.      Why  I'll  tell  you, 
Could  you  but   have  the  patience. 

Petru.      Well  the  patience. 

Jaq.     To  laugh  at  all  she  do's,  or  when  she   railes, 
To  have  a  Drum   beaten  o'th   top  o'th   house, 
To  give  the  neighbors  warning  of  her  Larme, 
As  I  do  when  my  Wife  rebels. 

Petru.     Thy  Wife  ? 

Thy  Wife's  a  Pigeon  to  her,  a  meere  slumber, 
The  dead  of  night's  not  stiller, 

Jaq.     Nor  an  Iron   Mill. 

Petru.     But  thy  Wife  is  certain. 

Jaq.     That's  false  Do6trine, 

70 


Sc.  iv          THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

You  never  read  of  a  certain  Woman. 

Petru.     Thou  know'st  her  way. 

y<iq.      I  should  doe,  I  am  sure. 
I  have  ridden  it  night,  and  day,  this  twenty  year. 

Petru.     But  mine  is  such  a  drench  of  Balderdash, 
Such  a  strange  carded  cunningness,  the  Rayne-bow 
When  she  hangs  bent  in   Heaven,  sheds  not  her  colours 
Quicker,  and  more,  than  this  deceitful  Woman 

Enter  Fed. 

Weaves  in   her  dye's  of  wickedness  :    what  sayes  she  ? 

Ped.     Nay  not  a  word  sir,  but  she  pointed  to  me, 
As  though  she  meant  to  follow  ;    pray  sir  bear  it 
Ev'n  as  you  may,  I  need   not  teach  your  worship, 
The  best  men  have  their  crosses,  we  are  all  mortal. 

Petru.      What  ailes  the  fellow  ? 

Ped.     And  no  doubt  she  may  Sir. 

Petru.     What  may  she,  or  what  do's  she,  or  what  is  she  ? 
Speak  and  be  hang'd. 

Ped.     She's  mad  Sir. 

Petru.     Heaven  continue  it. 

Ped.     Amen  if't  be  his  pleasure. 

Petru.      How  mad  is  she  ? 

Ped.      As  mad  as  heart  can  wish  Sir  :  she  has  drest  her  self 
(Saving  your  worships  reverence)  just  i'th'  cut 
Of  one  of  those  that  multiply  i'th  Suburbs 
For  single  Money,  and  as  durtily  : 
If  any  speak  to  her,  first  she  whistles, 
And  then  begins  her  compass  with  her  fingers, 
And  points  to  what  she  would  have. 

Petru.     What  new  way's  this  ? 

Ped.     There  came  in  Master  Sophocles. 

Petru.     And  what 

Did  Master  Sophocles  when  he  came  in  ? 
Get  my  Truncks  ready,  sirha,  I'll  be  gone  straight. 

Ped.     He's  here  to  tell  you 
She's  home  mad 


Enter  Sophocles. 
Soph.     Call  ye  this  a  Woman  ? 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR    ACT  iv 

Petru.      Yes  sir,  she  is  a   Woman. 

Soph.      Sir,   I   doubt   it. 

Petru.      I   had   thought  you   had   made  experience. 

Soph.      Yes,   I   did   so. 
And  almost   with   my   life. 

Petru.      You  rid  too  fast,  Sir. 

Soph.     Pray  be  not  mistaken  :    by  this  hand 
Your  wife's  as  chaste,  and   honest  as  a  Virgin, 
For  any  thing  I   know  :    'tis  true  she  gave  me 
A   Ring. 

Petru.      For  rutting. 

Soph.     You  are  much  deceiv'd  still, 
Believe   me,  I  never  kist   her  since,  and   now 
Coming  in  visitation,  like  a  friend, 
I  think  she  is  mad,  Sir,  suddainly  she  started, 
And  snatch'd  the   Ring  away,  and  drew  her  knife  out, 
To  what  intent  I  know  not. 

Petru.     Is   this  certain  ? 

Soph.     As  I  am  here,  Sir. 

Petru.     I  believe  you  honest. 
And  pray  continue  so. 

Enter  Maria. 

Soph.     She  comes. 

Petru.     Now  Damsel, 

What  will  your  beauty  do  if  I  forsake  you  ? 
Do  you  deal  by  signs,  and  tokens  ?    as  I  ghess  then, 
You'll  walk  abroad,  this  Summer,  and  catch  Captains, 
Or  hire  a  piece  of  holy  ground  i'  th'  Suburbs, 
And  keep  a  Nest  of  Nuns  ? 

Soph.     Oh   do  not  stir  her  ! 
You  see  in  what  a  case  she  is  ? 

Petru.     She  is  dogged, 

And  in  a  beastly  case  I  am  sure  :    I'll  make  her, 
If  she  have  any  tongue,  yet  tattle.     Sophocles, 
Prethee  observe  this  woman  seriously, 

And  eye  her  well,  and  when  thou  hast  done,  but  tell  me 
(For  thou  hast  understanding)   in   what  case 
My  sense  was,  when  I  chose  this  thing. 

Soph.     I'll  tell  you 

72 


Sc.  iv          THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

I  have  seen  a  sweeter — 

Petru.     An  hundred  times  cry  Oisters. 
There's  a  poor  Begger-wench  about  Black-Fryers 
Runs  on  her  breech,  may  be  an  Empress  to  her. 

Soph.     Nay,  now  you  are  too  bitter. 

Petr[u].     Nev'r  a  whit  Sir: 

I'll  tell  thee  woman  ;    for  now  I  have  day  to  see  thee, 
And  all  my  wits  about  me,  and  I  speak 
Not  out  of  passion  neither  (leave  your  mumping) 
I  know  you're  well  enough  :    Now  would  I  give 
A  million  but  to  vex  her  :    when  I  chose  thee 
To  make  a  Bedfellow,  I  took  more  trouble, 
Than  twenty  Terms  can  come  to,  such  a  cause, 
Of  such  a  title,  and  so  everlasting 
That  Adams  Genealogie  may  be  ended 
E'r  any  Law  find  thee  :    I  took  a  Leprosie, 
Nay  worse,  the  plague,  nay  worse  yet,  a  possession 
And  had  the  devil  with  thee,  if  not  more  : 
And  yet  worse,  was  a  beast,  and  like  a  beast 
Had  my  reward,  a  Jade  to  fling  my  fortunes ; 
For  who  that  had  but  reason  to  distinguish 
The  light  from  darkness,  wine  from  water,  hunger 
From  full  satiety,  and  Fox  from  Fern-bush 
That  would  have  married  thee  ? 

Soph.     She  is  not  so  ill. 

Petru.     She's  worse  than  I  dare  think  of:   she's  so  lewd; 
No  Court  is  strong  enough  to  bear  her  cause, 
She  hath  neither  manners,  honesty,  behaviour, 
Wife-hood,  nor  woman-hood,  nor  any  mortal 
Can  force  me  think  she  had  a  mother  :    no 
I  do  believe  her  stedfastly,  and  know  her 
To  be  a  Woman-wolfe  by  transmigration, 
Her  first  forme  was  a  Ferrets  under-ground, 
She  kils  the  memories  of  men  :    not  yet  ? 

Soph.     Do  you  think  she's  sensible  of  this  ? 

Petru.     I  care  not, 

Be  what  she  will  :    the  pleasure  I  take  in  her, 
Thus  I  blow  off;    the  care  I  took  to  love  her, 
Like  this  point,  I  untie,  and  thus  I  loose  it ; 
The  husband  I  am  to  her,  thus  I  sever  ; 

73 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR    ACT  iv 

My   vanity   farewel  :    yet,   for  you   have   been 

So    near    me,   as   to    hear   the    name   of  wife-, 

My   unquench'd   charity   shall   tell   you   thus   much, 

(Though   you   deserve   it   well)   you   shall    not   beg, 

What    I    ordain'd   your  Joynture,   honestly 

You  shall   have  setled  on   you  :    and   half  my   house, 

The  other   half  shall   he   imploy'd   in   prayers, 

(That  meritorious  charge  I'll   be  at  also 

Yet   to  confirm  you   Christian]  your  apparel, 

And   what   belongs  to   build   up  such  a  folly, 

Keep   I   beseech   you,   it   infects  our  uses, 

And  now  I  am  for  travel. 

Ma?-.      Now   I   love  you, 

And  now  I  see  you  are  a  man,  I'll   talke   to  you, 
And   I   forget  your  bitterness. 

Soph.      How  now  man  ? 

Petru.      Oh   Pliny^  if  thou  wilt   be  ever  famous 
Make  but  this  woman  all  thy  wonders. 

Mar.     Sure  Sir 

You   have  hit  upon  a  happy  course,  a  blessed, 
And  what  will   make  you  virtuous  ? 

Petru.     She'll  ship  me. 

Mar.     A   way  of  understanding  I  long  wish'd  for, 
And  now  'tis  come,  take   heed  you  fly  not  back  Sir, 
Methinks  you   look  a  new   man  to  me  now, 
A  man  of  excellence,  and  now  I  see 
Some  great  design  set  in  you  :    you  may  think  now 
(And  so  may  most  that  know  me)  'twere  my  part 
Weakly  to  weep  your  loss,  and  to  resist  you, 
Nay,  hang  about  your  neck,  and  like  a  dotard 
Urge  my  strong  tie  upon  you  :    but  I  love  you, 
And  all  the  world  shall  know  it,   beyond  woman  ; 
And  more  prefer  the  honor  of  your  Countrey, 
Which  chiefly  you  are  born  for,  and  may  perfect, 
The  uses  you  may  make  of  other  Nations, 
The  ripening  of  your  knowledge,  conversation, 
The  full  ability,  and  strength  of  judgement. 
Than  any  private  love,  or  wanton  kisses. 
Go  worthy  man,  and  bring  home  understanding. 

Soph.    This  were  an  excellent  woman  to  breed  School-men. 

74 


Sc.  iv          THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Afar.     For  if  the  Merchant  through  unknown  Seas  plough 
To  get  his  wealth,  then   dear  Sir,  what  must  you 
To  gather  wisdom  ?    go,  and  go  alone, 
Only  your  noble  mind  for  your  companion, 
And  if  a  woman  may  win  credit  with  you, 
Go  far,  too  far  you  cannot  :    still  the  farther 
The  more  experience  finds  you  :    and  go  sparing, 
One  meal  a  week  will  serve  you,  and  one  sute, 
Through  all  your  travels :    for  you'll  find  it  certain, 
The  poorer  and  the  baser  you  appear, 
The  more  you  look  through  still. 

Petru.     Dost  hear  her  ? 

Soph.      Yes. 

Petru.     What  would  this  woman  do  if  she  were  suffered, 
Upon  a  new  Religion  ? 

Soph.     Make  us  Pagans, 
I  wonder  that  she  writes  not. 

Mar.     Then  when  time, 

And  fulness  of  occasion  have  new  made  you, 
And  squar'd  you  from  a  Sot  into  a  Signior, 
Or  nearer,  from  a  Jade  into  a  Courser  ; 
Come  home  an  aged  man,  as  did    Ulysses, 
And  I  your  glad  Penelope. 

Petru.     That  must  have 
As  many  Lovers  as  I   Languages. 
And  what  she  does  with  one  i'th'  day,  i'th'  night 
Undoe  it  with  another. 

Mar.     Much  that  way,  Sir  ; 
For  in  your  absence  it  must  be  my  honor, 
That,  that  must  make  me  spoken  of  hereafter, 
To  have  temptations,  and  not  little  ones 
Daily  and  hourly  offered  me,  and  strongly, 
Almost  believed  against  me,  to  set  off 
The  faith,  and  loyalty  of  her  that  loves  you. 

Petru.     What  should  I  do  ? 

Soph.     Why  by  my  I  would  travel, 

Did  not  you  mean  so  ? 

Petr.      Alas  no,  nothing  less  man  : 
I  did  it  but  to  try,  Sir,  she's  the  Devil, 
And  now  I  find  it,  for  she  drives  me  ;    I  must  go  : 

75 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR    ACT  iv 

Are  my  trunks  down  there,  and   my   horses  ready? 

Mar.     Sir,  for  your  house,  and   if  you  please  to  trust   me 
With   that  you   leave  behind. 

Petru.      Bring  down   the  money. 

Mar.     As  I  am  able,  and  to  my   poor  fortunes, 
I'll  govern   as  a  widow  :    I   shall   long 
To  hear  of  your  well-doing,  and  your  profit  : 
And   when   I  hear  not   from  you  once  a  quarter, 
I'll   wish   you   in   the  Indies,  or   Cata[ya], 
Those  are  the  climes  must  make  you. 

Petru.     How's  the  wind  ? 
She'll  wish  me  out  o'th'  world  anon. 

Mar.      For  France. 

'Tis  very  fair  ;    get  you  aboard  to  night,  Sir, 
And  loose  no  time,  you  know  the  tide  staies  no  man, 
I  have  cold  meats  ready  for  you. 

Petru.     Fare  thee  well, 

Thou  hast  fool'd  me  out  o'  th'  Kingdom  with  a  vengeance, 
And  thou  canst  fool  me  in  again. 

Mar.     Not  I  Sir, 

I  love  you  better,  take  your  time,  and  pleasure. 
I'll  see  you  hors'd. 

Petru.     I  think  thou  wouldst  see  me.  hanged  too, 
Were  I  but  half  as  willing. 

Mar.     Any  thing 
That  you  think  well  of,  I  .dare  look  upon. 

Petru.     You'll  bear  me  to  the  Lands  end,   Sophocles, 
And  other  of  my  friends  I  hope. 

Mar.     Nev'r  doubt,  Sir, 

You  cannot  want  companions  for  your  good  : 
I  am  sure  you'll  kiss  me  e'r  I  go  ;    I  have  business, 
And  stay  long  here  I  must  not. 

Petru.     Get  thee  going. 
For  if  thou  tarriest  but  another  Dialogue 
I'll  kick  thee  to  thy  Chamber. 

Mar.     Fare  you  well,  Sir, 

And  bear  your  self,  I  do  beseech  you,  once  more, 
Since  you  have  undertaken  doing  wisely, 
Manly,  and  worthily,  'tis  for  my  credit, 
And  for  those  flying  fames  here  of  your  follies, 

76 


ACT  v         THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Your  gambols,  and  ill  breeding  of  your  youth, 
For  which  I  understand  you  take  this  travel, 
Nothing  should  make  me  leave  you  else,  I'll  deal 
So  like  a  wife  that  loves  your  reputation, 
And  the  most  large  addition  of  your  credit, 
That  those  shall  die  :    if  you  want  Limon-waters, 
Or  any  thing  to  take  the  edge  o'  th'  Sea  off, 
Pray  speak,  and  be  provided. 

Petru.      Now  the  Devil, 

That  was  your  first  good  Master,  showre  his  blessing 
Upon  ye  all  :    Into  whose  custody — 

Mar.     I  do  commit  your  Reformation, 
And  so  I  leave  you  to  your  Stilo  novo.  [Exit  Maria. 

Petru.     I  will  go  :   yet  I  will  not  :   once  more  Sophocles 
I'll  put  her  to  the  test. 

Soph.     You  had  better  go. 

Petru.     I  will  go  then  :    let's  seek  my  Father  out, 
And  all  my  friends,  to  see  me  fair  aboard  : 
Then  women,  if  there  be  a  storm  at  Sea, 
Worse  than  your  tongues  can  make,  and  waves  more  broken, 
Than  your  dissembling  faiths  are,  let  me  feel 
Nothing  but  tempests,  till  they  crack  my  Keel.          [Exeunt. 

Aftus   Quintus.     Scczna  Prima. 

Enter  Petronius,  and  Byancha,  with  four  papers, 

By.    "\  "  Ow  whether  I  deserve  that  blame  you  gave  me, 
^     Let  all  the  world  discern,  Sir. 

Petro.     If  this  motion, 

(I  mean  this  fair  repentance  of  my  Daughter) 
Spring  from  your  good  perswasion,  as  it  seems  so, 
I  must  confess  I  have  spoke  too  boldly  of  you, 
And  I  repent. 

By.     The  first  touch  was  her  own, 
Taken  no  doubt  from  disobeying  you, 
The  second  I  put  to  her,  when  I  told  her 
How  good,  and  gentle  yet,  with  free  contrition 
Again  you  might  be  purchas'd  :    loving  woman, 
She  heard  me,  and  I  thank  her,  thought  me  worthy 
Observing  in  this  point  :    yet  all  my  counsel, 

77 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR    ACT  v 

And  comfort   in   this  case,  could   not  so   heal   her 
But  that  grief  got   his  share  too,  and  she  sick'ned. 

Petro.      I  am  sorry  she's  so   ill,   yet  glad  her  sickness 
Has  got  so  good  a  ground. 

Enter  Moroso. 

By.     Here  comes  Moroso. 

Petro.     Oh,  you  are  very  welcome, 
Now  you  shall  know  your  happiness. 

Mor.     I  am  glad  on't. 
What  makes  this  Lady  here  ? 

By.     A  dish  for  you,  Sir 
You'll  thank  me  for  hereafter. 

Petro.     True  Morose, 
Go  get  you  in,  and  see  your  Mistriss. 

By.     She  is  sick,  Sir, 
But  you  may  kiss  her  whole. 

Mor.     How. 

By.     Comfort  her. 

Mor.     Why  am  I  sent  for,  Sir  ? 

Petro.     Will  you  in,  and  see  ? 

By.     May  be  she  needs  confession. 

Mor.      By  St.  Mary, 

She  shall  have  absolution  then,  and  pennance, 
But  not  above  her  carriage. 

Petro.      Get  you  in  fool.  [Exit  Mor. 

Bya.     Here  comes  the  other  too. 

Enter  Rowland  and  Tranio. 

Petro.      Now   Tranio. 
Good  ev'n  to  you  too,  and  you  are  welcome. 

Row.     Thank  you. 

Petro.     I   have  a  certain   Daughter. 

Row.     Would  you  had,  Sir. 

Petro.     No  doubt  you  know  her  well. 

Row.     Nor  never  shall,  Sir. 
She  is  a  woman,  and  the  waies  unto  her 
Are  like  the  finding  of  a  certain  path 
After  a  deep  fall'n  Snow. 

Petro.     Well,  that's   by   th'  by  still. 

78 


Sc.  i  THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

This  Daughter  that  I  tell  you  of,  is  fall'n 
A  little  crop  sick,  with  the  dangerous  surfeit 
She  took  of  your  affection. 

Row.     Mine  Sir  ? 

Petro.      Yes  Sir. 

Or  rather,  as  it  seems,  repenting. 
And  there  she  lies  within,  debating  on't. 

Row.     Well  Sir. 

Petro.     I  think  'twere  well  you  would  see  her. 

Row.     If  you  please,  Sir  ; 
I  am  not  squeamish  of  my  visitation. 

Petron.      But,  this  I'll  tell  you,  she  is  alter'd  much, 
You'll  find  her  now  another  Livia. 

Row.     I  have  enough  o'  th'  old,  Sir. 

Petro.     No  more  fool, 

To  look  gay  babies  in  your  eyes  young  Rowland, 
And  hang  about  your  pretty  neck. 

Row.     I  am  glad  on't, 
And  thank  my  Fates  I  have  scap'd  such  execution. 

Petron.     And  buss  you  till  you  blush  again. 

Row.     That's  hard,  Sir  ; 
She  must  kiss  shamefully  e're  I  blush  at  it, 
I  never  was  so  boyish  ;    well,  what  follows  ? 

Petro.     She's  mine  now,  as  I  please  to  settle  her 
At  my  command,  and  where  I  please  to  plant  her  : 
Only  she  would  take  a  kind  of  farewel  of  you, 
And  give  you  back  a  wandring  vow  or  two, 
You  left  in  pawn;    and 'two  or  three  slight  oaths 
She  lent  you  too,  she  looks  for. 

Row.     She  shall  have   'em 

With  all  my  heart,  Sir,  and  if  you  like  it  better, 
A  free  release  in  writing. 

Petro.     That's  the  matter, 

And  you  from  her,   [you]   shall  have  another  Rowland, 
And  then  turn  tail  to  tail,  and  peace  be  with  you. 

Row .     So  be  it :    Your  twenty  pound  sweats   Tranio. 

Tra.     'Twill  not  undoe  me  Rowland,  do  your  worst. 

Row.     Come,  shall  we  see  her,  Sir? 

Bya.     What  e'er  she  saies 
You  must  bear  manly  Rowland,  for  her  sickness 

79 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR    ACT  v 

Has  made  her  somewhat   [teatish.] 

Row.     Let  her  talk 

Till   her  tongue  ake,   I   care  not  :    by   this  hand 
Thou   hast  a   handsome   face   wench,  and  a   body 
Daintily  mounted  ;    now  do  I   feel   an   hundred 
Running  directly   from   me,   as  I   pist  it. 

Enter  Livia  discovered  abedy  and  Moroso  by  her. 

Bya.     Pray  draw  'em  softly,  the  least   hurry,  Sir, 
Puts  her  to  much   impatience. 

Petro.      How   is't  daughter  ? 

Liv.     Oh   very  sick,  very  sick,  yet  somewhat 
Better  I   hope  ;    a  little  lightsomer, 
Because  this  good   man  has  forgiven   me  ; 
Pray  set  me  higher;    oh   my  head: 

Bya.      Well  done  wench. 

Liv.     Father,  and  all  good  people  that  shall  hear  me, 
I  have  abus'd  this  man  perniciously;  was  never  old  man  humbled 
I  have  scorn'd  him,  and  call'd  him  nasty  names,  (so  ; 

I   have  spit  at  him, 

Flung  Candles  ends  in's  beard,  and  call'd  him  harrow, 
That  must  be  drawn   to  all  he  does  :    contemn'd  him, 
For  methought  then,  he   was  a  beastly  fellow. 
(Oh  [God]   my  side)  a  very  beastly   fellow  : 
And  gave  it  out,  his  Cassock  was  a  Barge-cloth, 
Pawn'd  to  his  predecessor  by  a  Sculler, 
The  man  yet  living  :    I  gave  him  purging  comfits 
At  a  great  Christning  once, 

That  spoil'd  his  Chamblet  breeches  ;    and  one  night 
I  strew'd  the  stairs  with   pease,  as  he  past  down  ; 
And  the  good  Gentleman   (woe  worth   me  for't) 
Ev'n  with  this  reverend  head,   this  head  of  wisdom, 
Told  two  and  twenty  stairs,  good  and  true  ; 
Mist  not  a  step,  and  as  we  say,  verbatim 
Fell  to  the  bottom,  broke  his  casting  Bottle, 
Lost  a  fair  Toad-stone,  of  some  eighteen  shillings, 
Jumbled  his  Joynts  together,  had  two  stools, 
And  was  translated.      All  this  villany 
Did  I  :    I  Livia,  I  alone,  untaught. 

Mor.     And  I  unask'd,  forgive  it. 

80 


Sc.  i  THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Liv.     Where's  Byancha  ? 

Bya.     Here  Cosin. 

Liv.     Give  me  drink. 

Bya.     There. 

Liv.     Who's  that  ? 

Mor.     Rowland. 

Liv.     Oh  my  dissembler,  you  and  I  must  part. 
Come  nearer,  Sir. 

Row.     I  am  sorry  for  your  sickness. 

Liv.     Be  sorry  for  your  self,  Sir,  you  have  wrong'd  me, 
But  I  forgive  you  ;    are  the  Papers  ready  ? 

Bya.     I  have  'em  here  :    wilt  please  you  view  'em  ? 

Petro.     Yes. 

Liv.     Shew  'em  the  young  man  too,  I  know  he's  willing 
To  shift  his  sails  too  :    'tis  for  his  more  advancement ; 
Alas,  we  might  have  begger'd  one  another  ; 
We  are  young  both,  and  a  world  of  children 
Might  have  been  left  behind  to  curse  our  follies  : 
We  had  been  undone  Byancha^  had  we  married, 
Undone  for  ever,  I   confess  I  lov'd  him, 
I  care  not  who  shall  know  it,  most  intirely; 
And  once,  upon  my  conscience,   he  lov'd  me ; 
But  farewel  that,  we  must  be  wiser,  cosin, 
Love  must  not  leave  us  to  the  world  :    have  you  done  ? 

Row.     Yes,  and  am  ready  to  subscribe. 

Liv.     Pray  stay  then  : 

Give  me  the  papers,  and  let  me  peruse  'em, 
And  so  much  time,  as  may  afford  a  tear 
At  our  last  parting. 

Bya.     Pray  retire,  and  leave  her, 
I'll  call  ye  presently. 

Petro.     Come  Gentlemen,  the  showre  must  fall. 

Row .     Would  I  had  never  seen  her.  [Exeunt. 

Bya.     Thou  hast  done  bravely  wench. 

Liv.     Pray  Heaven  it  prove  so. 

Bya.     There  are  the  other  papers  :    when  they  come 
Begin  you  first,  and  let  the  rest  subscribe 
Hard  by  your  side  ;    give  'em  as  little  light 
As  Drapers  do  their  Wares. 

Liv.     Didst  mark  Moroso, 

B.-F.  VIII.  F  8 1 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR     ACT  v 

In   what  an  agony   he  was,  and   how   he  cry'd   most 
When   I  abus'd   him   most  r 

Byu.     That   was  hut   reason. 

Liv.     Oh   what  a  stinking  thief  is  this? 
Though   I   was  but  to  counterfeit,   he  made   me 
Diredtly  sick  indeed.      Thames-street  to  him 
Is  a  meer  Pomander. 

B\a.     Let   him   be  hang'd. 

Liv.      Amen. 

Bya.     And   lie  you  still  ; 
And  once  more  to  your  business. 

Liv.     Call   'em  in. 

Now  if  there  be  a  power  that  pities  Lovers, 
Help  now,  and  hear  my  prayers. 

Enter  Petronius,   Rowland,  Tranio,  Moroso. 

Petro.     Is  she  ready  ? 

Bya.     She  has  done  her  lamentations  :    pray  go  to  her. 

Liv.     Rowland^  come  near  me,  and  before  you  seal, 
Give  me  your  hand  :    take  it  again  ;    now  kiss  me. 
This  is  the  last  acquaintance  we  must  have  ; 
I  wish  you  ever  happy:    there's  the  paper. 

Row.     Pray  stay  a  little. 

Petro.     Let  me  never  live  more 
But  I  do  begin  to  pity  this  young  fellow  ; 
How  heartily  he  weeps  ! 

Bya.     There's  Pen  and  Ink,  Sir. 

Liv.     Ev'n   here  I   pray  you.     'Tis  a  little  Emblem 
How  near  you  have  been  to  me. 

Row.     There. 

Bya.     Your  hands  too, 
As  witnesses. 

Petro.      By  any  means 
To  th'  Book  son. 

Mor.     With  all   my  heart. 

Bya.     You  must  deliver  it. 

Row.     There  Livia,  and  a  better  love  light  on  thee, 
I  can  no  more. 

Bya.     To  this  you  must  be  witness  too. 

Petro.     We  will. 

82 


Sc.  ii  THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Bya.     Do  you  deliver  it  now. 

Liv.     Pray  set  me  up  ; 

There  Rowland,  all  thy  old  love  back :    and  may 
A  new  to  come  exceed  mine,  and  be  happy. 
I  must  no  more. 

Row .     Farewel  : 

Liv.     A  long  farewel.  [Exit  Row. 

Bya.     Leave  her  by  any '  means,  till  this  wild  passion 
Be  off  her  head  :    draw  all  the  Curtains  close, 
A  day  hence  you  may  see  her,  'twill  be  better, 
She  is  now  for  little  company. 

Petro.      Pray  tend  her. 

I  must  to  horse  straight,  you  must  needs  along  too, 
To  see  my  son  aboard  :    were   but  his  wife 
As  fit  for  pity,  as  this  wench,  I  were  happy. 

Bya.     Time  must  do  that  too :   fare  ye  well :  to  morrow 
You  shall  receive  a  wife  to  quit  your  sorrow.  [Exeunt. 

Sccena  Secunda. 

Enter  Jaques,  Pedro,  and  Porters^  with  Chest  and  Hampers. 

Jag.     Bring  'em  away  Sirs. 

Ped.     Must  the  great  Trunks  go  too  ? 

Jaq.     Yes,  and  the   Hampers ;    nay,  be  speedy  Masters ; 
He'll  be  at  Sea  before  us  else. 

Ped.      Oh  y agues , 
What  a  most  blessed  turn  hast  thou  ! 

Jaq.     I  hope  so. 

Ped.     To  have  the  Sea  between  thee  and  this  woman, 
Nothing  can  drown  her  tongue  but  a  storm. 

Jaq.     By  your  leave, 

We'll  get  us  up  to  Paris  with  all  speed  ; 
For  on  my  soul,  as  far  as  Amiens 
She'll  carry  blank,  away  to  Lyon-key 
And  ship  'em  presently,  we'll  follow  ye. 

Ped.     Now  could  I  wish  her  in  that  Trunk  : 

Jaq.     God  shield  man, 
I  had  rather  have  a  Bear  in't. 

Ped.     Yes,  I'll  tell  ye  : 
For  in  the  passage,  if  a  Tempest  take  ye, 

F2  83 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR    ACT  v 

As  many  doe,  and   you   lie  beating  for   it, 

Then,   it  it  pleas'd  the  fates,   I   would   have  the  Master, 

Out  of  a  powerful   providence,  to  cry, 

Lighten   the  ship  of  all   hands,   or  we  perish  ; 

Then  this  for  one,  as  best  spar'd,  should  by  all  means, 

Over-board  presently. 

Jag.      O'  that  condition, 
So  we  were  certain   to  be  rid  of  her, 
I   would  wish   her  with  us,  but  believe  me  Pedro, 
She  would  spoil  the  fishing  on   this  coast  for  ever. 
For  none  would  keep  her  company  but  Dog-fish, 
As  currish  as  her  self;    or  Porpisces, 
Made  to  all  fatal  uses  :    The  two  Fish-streets 
Were  she   but  once  arriv'd  amongst  the  Whitings, 
Would  sing  a  woful  misereri  Pedro, 
And  mourn   in   Poor  John,  till   her  memory 
Were  cast  o'  shore  agen,  with  a  strong  Sea-breach  : 
She  would  make  god  Neptune,  and  his  Fire-fork, 
And  all  his  demi-gods,  and  goddesses, 
As  weary  of  the  Flemmish  Channel,  Pedro, 
As  ever  boy  was  of  the  School,  'tis  certain, 
If  she  but  meet  him  fair,  and  were  well  angred, 
She  would  break  his  god-head. 

Ped.     Oh  her  tongue,  her  tongue. 

Jag.     Rather  her  many  tongues. 

Ped.     Or  rather  strange  tongues. 

Jaq.     Her  lying  tongue. 

Ped.      Her  lisping  tongue. 

Jaq.      Her  long  tongue. 

Ped.     Her  lawless  tongue. 

Jaq.     Her  loud  tongue. 

Ped.     And  her  liquorish — 

Jaq.     Many  other  tongues,  and  many  stranger  tongues 
Than  ever  Babel  had  to  tell  his  ruines, 
Were  Women  rais'd  withal  ;    but  never  a  true  one. 

Enter  Sophocles. 

Soph.     Home  with   your  stuff  agen,  the  journey's  ended. 

Jaq.      vVhat  does  your  worship  mean  ? 

Soph.     Your  Master,  Oh  Petruchio,  oh  poor  fellows. 


Sc.  in          THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Ped.     Oh  y agues )  J  agues. 

Soph.     Oh  your   Master's  dead, 
His  body  coming  back,  his  wife,  his  devil ; 
The  grief  of her. 

Jaq.     Has  kill'd  him  ? 

Soph.     Kill'd  him,  kill'd  him. 

Ped.     Is  there  no  Law  to  hang  her. 

Soph.     Get  ye  in, 

And  let  her  know  her  misery,  I  dare  not 
For  fear  impatience  seize  me,  see  her  more, 
I  must  away  agen  :    Bid  her  for  wife-hood, 
For  honesty,  if  she  have  any  in  her, 
Even  to  avoid  the  shame  that  follows  her. 
Cry  if  she  can,  your  weeping  cannot  mend  it. 
The  body  will  be  here  within  this  hour,  so  tell  her  ; 
And  all  his  friends  to  curse  her.    Farewel  fellows.      [Exit  Soph. 

Ped.     Oh  J 'agues,  J agues. 

Jaq.     Oh  my  worthy  Master. 

Ped.     Oh  my  most  beastly  Mistriss,  hang  her. 

Jaq.      Split  her. 

Ped.     Drown  her  directly. 

Jaq.     Starve  her. 
ed.     Stink  upon  her. 

Jaq.     Stone  her  to  death  :    may  all  she  eat  be  Eggs. 
Till  she  run  kicking  mad  for  men. 

Ped.     And  he, 

That  man,  that  gives  her  remedy,  pray  Heav'n 
He  may  ev'n  ipso  fafto,  lose  his  [longings.] 

Jaq.     Let's  go  discharge  our  selves,  and  he  that  serves  her, 
Or  speaks  a  good  word  of  her  from  this  hour, 
A  Sedgly  curse  light  on  him,  which  is,  Pedro  ; 
The    Fiend    ride    through    him    booted,   and    spurr'd,   with   a 
Sythe  at's  back.  [Exeunt. 

Sccena  'Tertia. 

Enter  Rowland,  and  Tranio  stealing  behind  him. 

Row.     What  a  dull  ass  was  I  to  let  her  go  thus  ! 
Upon  my  life  she  loves  me  still :    well  Paper, 
Thou  only  monument  of  what  I  have  had, 

85 


THE  WOMANS   PRIZE,  OR     ACT  v 

Thou  all   the  love   now   left   me,  and   now   lost, 
Let  me  yet  kiss   her  hand,  yet   take  my  leave 
Of  what   I   must   leave  ever :    Farewel   Livid. 
Oh   hitter  words,   I'll   read   ye  once  again, 
And   then   for  ever  study   to   forget  ye. 
How's  this  ?    let  me  look  better  on't :    A  Contract  ? 
-A  Contract,  seal'd,  and   ratified, 
Her  Fathers  hand  set  to  it,  and  Morosos  : 
I  do  not  dream  sure,   let  me  read  again, 
The  same  still,  'tis  a  Contract. 

Tra.      'Tis  so   Rowland  ; 

And  by  the  virtue  of  the  same,  you  pay  me 
An   hundred   pound  to  morrow. 

Row.     Art  sure   Tranio, 
We  are  both   alive  now  ? 

Tra.      Wonder  not,  ye  have  lost. 

Row.     If  this  be  true,   I  grant  it. 

Tra.     'Tis  most  certain, 
There's  a  Ring  for  you  too,  you  know   it. 

Row.     Yes. 

Tra.     When  shall  I  have  my  money? 

Row.     Stay  ye,  stay  ye, 
When  shall  I  marry  her  ? 

Tra.     To  night. 

Row.     Take  heed  now 
You  do  not  trifle  me  ;    if  you  do, 

You'll  find  more  payment,  than  your  money  comes  to  : 
Come  swear ;    I  know  I  am  a  man,  and  find 
I  may  deceive  my  self:    swear  faithfully, 
Swear  me  direclly,  am  I   Rowland  ? 

Tra.     Yes. 

Row.     Am  I  awake  ? 

Tra.     Ye  are. 

Row.     Am  I  in  health  ? 

Tra.     As  far  as  I  conceive. 

Row.      Was  I  with  Livia  ? 

Tra.     You  were,  and   had  this  Contract. 

Row.     And  shall  I   enjoy  her  ? 

Tra.     Yes,  if  ye  dare. 

Row.     Swear  to  all  these. 

86 


Sc.  iv          THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Tra.     I  will.  I 

Row.     As  thou  art  honest,  as  thou  hast  a  conscience, 
As  that  may  wring  thee  if  thou  liest ;    all  these 
To  be  no  vision,  but  a  truth,  and  serious. 

Tra.     Then   by  my  honesty,  and   faith,  and  conscience  ; 
All  this  is  certain. 

Row.     Let's  remove  our  places. 
Swear  it  again. 

Tra.     By 'tis  true. 

Row.     I  have  lost  then,  and  Heaven  knows  I  am  glad  on't. 
Let's  goe,  and  tell  me  all,  and  tell  me  how, 
For  yet  I  am  a  Pagan  in  it. 

Tra.     I  have  a  Priest  too, 
And  all  shall  come  as  even  as  two  Testers.  [Exeunt. 

Scan  a  Quarta. 

Enter  Petronius,  Sophocles,  Moroso,  and  Petruchio  born 

in  a  Coffin. 

Petro.     Set  down  the  body,  and  one  call  her  out. 

Enter  Maria  in  black,  and  Jaques. 

You  are  welcome  to  the  last  cast  of  your  fortunes  ; 
There  lies  your  Husband  ;    there,  your  loving  Husband, 
There  he  that  was  Petruchio,  too  good  for  ye  ;' 
Your  stubborn  and  unworthy  way  has  kill'd  him 
E'er  he  could  reach  the  Sea ;    if  ye  can  weep, 
Now  ye  have  cause  begin,  and  after  death 
Doe  something  yet  to  th'  world,  to  think  ye  honest. 
So  many  tears  had  sav'd  him,  shed  in  time  ; 
And  as  they  are  (so  a  good  mind  go  with  'em) 
Yet  they  may  move  compassion. 

Mar.     Pray  ye  all  hear  me, 
And  judge  me  as  I  am,  not  as  you  covet, 
For  that  would  make  me  yet  more  miserable  : 
'Tis  true,  I  have  cause  to  grieve,  and  mighty  cause  ; 
And  truly  and  unfeinedly  I  weep  it. 

Soph.     I  see  there's  some  good  nature  yet  left  in  her. 

Mar.    But  what's  the  cause  ?  mistake  me  not,  not  this  man, 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE,  OR    ACT  v 

As  he  is  dead,   I   weep  for  ;    Heaven   defend   it, 

I   never   was  so   childish  :    but   his   life, 

His  poor  unmanly,   wretched,   foolish   life, 

Is  that   my   full   eyes  pity,   there's  my  mourning. 

Petro.      Dost  thou   not  shame  ? 

Mar.      I  doe,  and  even   to  water, 
To  think   what   this  man   was,  to  think  how  simple, 
How   far   below  a  man,   how  far  from   reason, 
From  common  understanding,  and  all   Gentry, 
While  he  was  living  here  he  walk'd  amongst  us. 
He  had  a  happy  turn  he  dyed  ;    I'll  tell  ye, 
These  are  the  wants  I   weep  for,  not  his  person  : 
The  memory  of  this  man,  had   he  liv'd 
But  two  years  longer,   had   begot  more  follies, 
Than  wealthy  Autumn  Flies.     But  let  him   rest, 
He  was  a  fool,  and  farewel  he  ;    not  pitied, 
I  mean  in  way  of  life,  or  action 
By  any  understanding  man  that's  honest ; 
But  only  in's  posterity,  which  I, 
Out  of  the  fear  his  ruines  might  out-live  him, 
In  some  bad  issue,  like  a  careful  woman, 
Like  one  indeed,  born  only  to  preserve  him, 
Deny'd  him  means  to  raise. 

Petru.      Unbutton   me, 
-I  die  indeed  else  !      Oh  Maria, 
Oh  my  unhappiness,   my  misery. 

Petro.     Goe  to  him  whore  ;  if  he  perish, 

I'll  see  thee  hang'd  my  self. 

Petru.      Why,  why  Maria  ? 

Mar.     I  have  done  my  worst,  and  have  my  end,  forgive  me  ; 
From  this  hour  make  me  what  you  please:   I   have  tam'd  ye, 
And  now  am  vow'd  your  servant  :    Look  not  strangely, 
Nor  fear  what  I  say  to  you.      Dare  you  kiss  me  ? 
Thus  I  begin  my  new  love. 

Petru.      Once  again  ? 

Mar.      With   all   my   heart. 

Petru.      Once  again   Maria, 
Oh   Gentlemen,   I  know  not  where  I  am. 

Soph.     Get  ye  to  bed  then :   there  you'll  quickly  know  Sir. 

Petru.     Never  no  more  your  old  tricks  ? 


Sc.  iv          THE  TAMER  TAM'D 

Mar.     Never  Sir. 

Petru.     You  shall  not  need,  for  as  I   have  a  faith 
No  cause  shall  give  occasion. 

Mar.     As  I  am  honest, 
And  as  I  am  a  maid  yet,  all  my  life 
From  this  hour,  since  ye  make  so  free  profession, 
I  dedicate  in  service  to  your  pleasure. 

Soph.     I  marry,  this  goes  roundly  off. 

Petru.     Goe  jaques^ 

Get  all  the  best  meat  may  be  bought  for  money, 
And  let  the  hogsheads  blood,  I  am  born  again  : 
Well  little  England,  when  I  see  a  Husband 
Of  any  other  Nation,  stern  or  jealous, 
I'll  wish  him  but  a  woman  of  thy  breeding  ; 
And  if  he  have  not  butter  to  his  bread, 
Till  his  teeth  bleed,  I'll  never  trust  my  travel. 

Enter  Rowland,  Livia,  Byancha,  and  Tranio. 

Petro.     What  have  we  here  ? 

Row.     Another  Morris,  Sir. 
That  you  must  pipe  too. 

Tra.     A  poor  married  couple 
Desire  an  offering,  Sir. 

Bya.     Never  frown  at  it, 

You  cannot  mend  it  now  :    there's  your  own  hand  ; 
And  yours  Moroso,  to  confirm  the  bargain. 

Petron.      My  hand  ? 

Mor.     Or  mine? 

You'll  find  it  so. 

A  trick, 
a  trick. 

Bya.     Yes  Sir,  we  trickt  ye. 

Liv.     Father. 

P[e]tro.     Hast  thou  lain  with  him  ?    speak  ! 

Liv.     Yes  truly  Sir. 

Petro.     And  hast  thou  done  the  deed,  boy  ? 

Row.     I  have   [done],  Sir, 
That,  that  will  serve  the  turn,  I  think. 

Petru.     A   match  then, 
I'll  be  the  maker  up  of  this  :    Moroso, 


THE  WOMANS  PRIZE        ACT  v 

There's  now  no  remedy  you  see,  be  willing  ; 
[F]or  be,  or  be  not,   he  must  have  the  wench. 

Mor.     Since  I  am  over-reach'd,   let's  in  to  dinner, 
And   if  I   can,   I'll   drink't  away. 

Tra.     That's  well  said. 

Petro.     Well  sirrah,  you  have  plaid  a  trick,   look  to't, 
And   let  me  be  a  Grandsire  within's  twelve-month, 
Or  by  this  hand,  I'll  curtail  half  your  fortunes. 

Row.      There  shall  not  want  my  labour,  Sir:   your  money; 
Here's  one  has  undertaken. 

Tra.     Well,   I'll  trust  her, 
And   glad  I  have  so  good  a  pawn. 

Row.     I'll  watch  ye. 

Petru.     Let's  in,  and  drink  of  all  hands,  and  be  jovial : 
I   have  my  Colt  again,  and  now  she  carries  ; 
And  Gentlemen,  whoever  marries  next, 
Let  him  be  sure  he  keep  him  to  his  Text.  [Exeunt. 


EPILOGUE. 


men 


THe  Tamer'j  tam'd,  but  so,  as  nor  the 
Can  find  one  just  cause  to  complain  of,  when 
They  fitly  do  consider  in  their  lives. 

They  should  not  reign  as   Tyrants  o^er  their  wives. 
Nor  can  the  IV omen  from  this  president 

Insult,  or  triumph  ;    it  being  aptly  meant, 
To  teach  both  Sexes  due  equality ; 

And  as  they  stand  bound,   to  love  mutually. 
If  this  effect  arising  from  a  cause 

Well  laid,  and  grounded,  may  deserve  applause, 
We  something  more  than  hope,  our  honest  ends 

Will  keep  the  Men,  and  Women  too,  our  friends. 


90 


THE 


ISLAND  PRINCESS 

A    Tragi-Comedy. 


The  Persons  represented  in  the  Play. 


King  of  Sidore,  an  Island. 
King  of  Bakam,\Suitors  to  the  Prin- 
King  of  Siana,  j      cess  Quisara. 
Governor  of  'Terna,  an  Island.      An 

ill  man. 
Ruy  Dias,  a  Captain  of  Portugal, 

also  suitor  to  the  Prin. 
Piniero,    Nephew   to    Ruy    Dias,    a 

merry  Captain. 

Christophero,  \Soldiers  and  Friends 
Pedro,  j      to  Piniero. 


Armusia,  a  noble  daring  Portugueze, 

in  love  with  the  Princess. 
Soza,          )  companions   to    Armusia, 
Emanuel,  j  and  his  valiant  followers. 
Keeper. 
Moors. 
Guard. 
Captain. 
Citizens. 
Townsmen. 


WOMEN. 


Quisara,  the  Island  Princess,  Sister  to 

the  King  o/' Sidore. 
Quisa[n]a,  Aunt  to  the  Princess. 


Panura,  Waiting-woman  to  the  Prin- 
cess Quisara. 
Citizens  wives. 


The  Scene  India. 


The  Principal  Actors  were 

John  Lowin,  Joseph  Tailor^ 

John   Underwood^  Robert  Benfield, 

William  Eglestone^  George  Eirch^ 

Rich.  Sbarpe,  ¥ho.  Polar d. 


91 


THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS       ACT  i 

A tfu s   Primus.     Sctrna   Prima. 

A  Bell  Rings. 
Enter  Pymero,   Christophcro,  and  Pedro. 

Pymero.    S~^\Pen  the   Ports,  and  see  the   Watch   reliev'd, 

\_S    And  let  the  guards  be  careful  of  their  business, 
Their  vigilant  eyes  fixt  on   these  Islanders, 
They  are   false  and  desperate  people,  when  they  find 
The  least  occasion  open   to  encouragement, 
Cruel,  and  crafty  souls,   believe  me  Gentlemen, 
Their  late  attempt,   which   is  too  fresh  amongst  us, 
In  which,  against  all  arms  and  honesty, 
The  Governor  of  Ternata  made  surprize 
Of  our  Confederate,  the   King  of  Tidore, 
As  for  his  recreation   he  was  rowing 
Between  both   Lands,   bids  us  be  wise  and  circumspect. 

Chr.     It  was  a  mischief  suddenly  imagin'd, 
And  as  soon  done  j    that  Governor's  a  fierce  knave, 
Unfaithful  as  he  is  fierce  too,  there's  no  trusting  ; 
But  I  wonder  much,  how  such  poor  and  base  pleasures, 
As  tugging  at  an  Oar,  or  skill  in  Steerage, 
Should  become  Princes. 

Py.     Base  breedings,  love  base  pleasure  ; 
They  take  as  much  delight  in  a  Baratto, 
A  little  scurvy  boat  to  row  her  ti[th]ly, 
And  have  the  Art  to  turn  and  wind  her  nimbly, 
Think  it  as  noble  too,  though  it  be  slavish, 
And  a  dull  labour  that  declines  a  Gentleman  : 
As  we  Portugal*,  or  the  Spaniards  do  in   riding, 
In  managing  a  great  horse,  which   is  princely : 
The  French  in  Courtship,  or  the  dancing  English, 
In  carrying  a  fair  presence. 

Ped.     He  was  strangely  taken  ; 

But  where  no  faith  is,  there's  no  trust  :    he  has  paid  for't 
His  Sister  yet  the  fair  and  great   Quisara, 
Has  shew'd  a  noble  mind,  and   much  love  in't 
To  her  afflicted   brother,  and  the  nobler  still   it  appears, 
And   seasons  of  more    tenderness,  because   his   ruin   stiles   her 
And  his  imprisonment  adds  to  her  profit.  (absolute 

92 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

Feeling  all  this,  which  makes  all  men  admire  her, 
The  warm  beams  of  this  fortune  that  fall  on  her, 
Yet  has  she  made  divers  and  noble  Treaties, 
And  propositions  for  her  brothers  freedom, 
If  wealth  or  honor — 

Py.     Peace,  peace,  you  are  fool'd,  Sir ; 
Things  of  these  natures  have  strange  outsides  Pedro, 
And  cunning  shadows,  set  'em  far  from  us, 
Draw  'em  but  near,  they  are  gross,  and  they  abuse  us ; 
They  that  observe  her  close,  shall  find  her  nature, 
Which  I  doubt  mainly  will  not  prove  so  excellent ; 
She  is  a  Princess,  and  she  must  be  fair, 
That's  the  prerogative  of  being  Royal  : 
Let  her  want  eyes  and  nose,  she  must  be  beauteous, 
And  she  must  know  it  too,  and  the  use  of  it, 
And  people  must  believe  it,  they  are  damn'd  else  : 
Why,  all  our  neighbor  Princes  are  mad  for  her. 

Chr.     Is  she  not   fair  then  ? 

Py.     But  her  hopes  are  fairer, 

And  there's  a  haughty  Master,  the   King  of  Bakan, 
That  lofty  Sir,  that  speaks  far  more,  and  louder 
In   his  own  commendations,  than  a  Cannon  : 
He  is  strucken  dumb  with  her. 

Ped.     Beshrew  me  she  is  a  sweet  one. 

Py.     And  there's  that  hopeful  man  of  Syana, 
That  sprightly  fellow,  he  that's  wise  and  temperate, 
He  is  a  Lover  too. 

Chr.     Wou'd  I  were  worth  her  looking 
For  ;    by  my  life  I  hold  her  a  compleat  one, 
The  very  Sun,  I  think  affecls  her  sweetness, 
And  dares  not,  as  he  does  to  all  else,  dye  it 
Into  his  tauny  Livery. 

Py.     She  dares  not  see  him, 
But  keeps  her  self  at  distance  from  his  kisses, 
And  [weares]    her  complexion  in  a  Case  ;  let  him  but  like  it 
A  week,  or  two,  or  three,  she  would  look  like  a  Lion  j 
But  the  main  sport  on't  is,  or  rather  wonder 
The  Governor  of  Ternata,  her  mortal  enemy, 
He  that  has  catcht  her  brother  King,   is  struck  too, 
And  is  arriv'd  under  safe  conduct  also, 

93 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS       ACT  i 

And  hostages  of  worth  delivered  for  him  ; 
And   he   brought  a  Letter  from  his  prisoner, 
Whether  compell'd,  or  willingly  delivered 
From   the  poor  King,  or  what  else  dare  be  in't. 

Chr.     So  it  be   honourable,  any  thing,  'tis  all  one 
For  I  dare  think  she'll  do  the  best. 

Py.     'Tis  certain 

He  has  admittance,  and  sollicites  hourly, 
Now  if  he  have  the  trick — 

Fed.     What  trick? 

Py.     The  true  one, 

To  take  her  too,  if  he  be  but  skill'd  in  Bat-fowling, 
And  lime  his  bush  right. 

Chr.      I'll  be  hang'd  when  that  hits, 
For  'tis  not  a  compell'd,  or  forc'd  affection 
That  must  take  her,  I  guess  her  stout  and  virtuous, 
But  where's  your  Uncle,  Sir,  our  valiant  Captain, 
The  brave  Ruy  Dias  all  this  while  ? 

Py.     I  marry. 
He  is  amongst  'em  too. 

Ped.     A  Lover. 

Py.     Nay, 

I  know  not  that,  but  [sure]  he  stands  in  favour, 
Or  would  stand  stifly,  he  is  no  Portugal  else. 

Chr.     The  voice  says  in  good  favour,  in  the  list  too 
Of  the  privy  wooers,  how  cunningly  of  late 
I  have  observ'd  him,  and  how  privately 
He  has  stolen  at  all  hours  from  us,  and  how  readily 
He  has  feign'd  a  business  to  bid  the  Fort  farewel 
For  five  or  six  days,  or  a  month  together, 
Sure  there  is  something — 

Py.     Yes,  yes,  there  is  a  thing  in't, 
A  thing  would  make  the  best  on's  all  dance  after  it ; 
A  dainty  thing  ;    Lord  how  this  Uncle  of  mine 
Has  read  to  me,  and  rated  me  for  wenching. 
And  told  me  in  what  desperate  case  'twould  leave  me, 
And  how  'twould  stew  my  bones. 

Ped.     You  car'd  not  for  it. 

Py.     I'faith  not  much,  I  ventur'd  on  still  easily, 
And  took  my  chance,  danger  is  a  Soldiers  honor  ; 

94 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

But  that  this  man,  this  herb  of  Grace,  Ruy  Dias, 
This  father  of  our  faculties  should  slip  thus, 
For  sure  he  is  a  ferriting,  that  he 
That  would  drink  nothing,  to  depress  the  spirit, 
But  milk  and  water,  eat  nothing  but  thin  air 
To  make  his  bloud  obedient,  that  his  youth, 
In  spight  of  all  his  temperance,  should  tickle, 
And  have  a  love  mange  on  him. 

Chr.     'Tis  in   him,  Sir, 
But  honourable  courtship,  and  becomes  his  rank  too. 

Py.      In  me  'twere  abominable  Leachery,  or  would  be, 
For  when  our  thoughts  are  on't,  and  miss  their  level, 
We  must  hit  something. 

Ped.     Well,  he's  a  noble  Gentleman, 
And  if  he   be  a  suitor,  may  he  speed  in't. 

Py.     Let  him  alone,  our  family  ne'r  fail'd  yet. 

Chr.     Our  mad  Lieutenant  still,  merry  Pyniero^ 
Thus  wou'd  he  do,  if  the  Surgeon  were  searching  of  him. 

Ped.      Especially  if  a  warm  wench  had  shot  him. 

Py.     But  hark  Christophero  ;    come  hither  Pedro  ; 
When  saw  you  our  brave  Countrey-man  Armusia  ? 
He  that's  arriv'd  here  lately,  and  his  gallants  ? 
A  goodly  fellow,  and  a  brave  companion 
Methinks  he  is,  and  no  doubt,  truly  valiant, 
For  he  that  dares  come  hither,  dares  fight  any  where. 

Chr.     I  saw  him  not  of  late,  a  sober  Gentleman 
I  am  sure  he  is,  and  no  doubt  bravely  sprung, 
And  promises  much  nobleness. 

Py.     I  love  him, 

And  by  my  troth  wou'd  fain  be  inward  with  him ; 
Pray  let's  go  seek  him. 

Ped.     We'll  attend  you  Sir. 

Py.     By   that   time   we   shall    hear   the   burst   of  business. 

[Exeunt. 

Enter  Ruy  Dias,  Quisara,  Quisana  ;    and  Panura. 

Quisar.     Aunt,  I  much  thank  you  for  your  courtesie, 
And  the  fair  liberty  you  still  allow  me, 
Both  of  your  house  and  service,   though  I  be 
A  Princess,  and   by  that  Prerogative  stand  free 

95 


THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS       ACT  i 

From  the  poor  malice  of  opinion, 
And  no  ways  bound   to  render  up  my  aclions, 
Because  no  power  above  me  can  examine  me  ; 
Yet  my  dear  brother  being  still  a  prisoner, 
And   many  wandring  eyes  upon   my   ways, 
Being  left  alone  a  Sea-mark,  it  behoves  me 
To  use  a  little  caution,  and  be  circumspect. 

Quisan.     You're  wise  and  noble  Lady. 

Quisar.     Often   Aunt 

I  resort  hither,  and  privately  to  see  you, 
It  may   be  to  converse  with  some  I   favour ; 
I   wou'd  not  have  it  known  as  oft,  nor  constru'd, 
It  stands  not  with   my  care. 

Quisan.     You  speak  most  fairly, 
For  even  our  pure  devotions  are  examin'd. 

Quisar.     So  mad  are  mens  minds  now. 

Ruy.     Or  rather  monstrous  ; 
They  are   thick  dreams,   bred   in   fogs  that  know  no  fairness. 

Quisan.     Madam,  the   House    is   yours,  I   am   yours,  pray 
And  at  your  service  all  I  have  lies  prostrate  ;  (use  me, 

My  care  shall  ever  be  to  yield  ye  honor, 
And  when  your  fame  falls  here,  'tis  my  fault  Lady  ; 
A  poor  and  simple  banquet  I  have  provided, 
Which  if  you  please  to  honor  with  your  presence — 

Quisar.     I  thank  ye  Aunt,  I  shall  be  with  you  instantly, 
A  few  words  with  this  Gentleman. 

Quisan.     I'll  leave  ye,  [Exeunt  Quis. 

And  when  you  please  retire,  I'll  wait  upon  you.        (&  Pan. 

Quisar.     Why,  how  now  Captain,  what  afraid  to  speak  to 
A  man  of  Armes,  and  danted  with  a  Lady  ?  (me  ? 

Commanders  have  the  power  to  parle  with  Princes. 

Ruy.     Madam,  the  favors  you  have  still  showr'd  on  me, 
Which  are  so  high  above  my  means  of  merit, 
So  infinite,  that  nought  can  value  'em 
But  their  own  goodness,  no  eyes  look  up  to  'em 
But  those  that  are  of  equal  light,  and  lustre, 
Strike  me  thus  mute,  you  are  my  royal  Mistriss, 
And  all  my  services  that  aime  at  honor, 
Take  life  from  you,  the  Saint  of  my  devotions  ; 
Pardon  my  wish,  it  is  a  fair  ambition, 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

And  well  becomes  the  Man  that  honors  you  ; 
I  wou'd  I  were  of  worth,  of  something  near  you, 
Of  such  a  royal  piece,  a  King  I  wou'd  be, 
A  mighty  King  that  might  command  affection, 
And  bring  a  youth  upon  me  might  bewitch  ye, 
And  you  a  sweet  sould   Christian. 

Quisar.      Now  you  talk  Sir  ; 
You  Portugal*)  though  you  be  rugged  Soldiers, 
Yet  when  you  list  to  flatter,  you  are  plain  Courtiers ; 
And  could  you  wish   me   Christian^  brave  Ruy  Dlas  ? 

Ruy.     At  all  the  danger  of  my  life  great  Lady, 
At  all  my  hopes,  at  all — 

Quisar.     Pray  ye  stay  a  little, 
To  what  end  runs  your  wish  ? 

Ruy.     O  glorious  Lady, 
That  I  might — but  I  dare  not  speak. 

Quisar.     I  dare  then, 

That  you  might  hope  to  marry  me  ;    nay  blush  not, 
An  honorable  end  needs  no  excuse  ; 
And  would  you  love  me  then  ? 

Ruy.     My  soul  not  dearer. 

Quisar.     Do  some  brave  thing  that  may  entice  me  that  way, 
Some  thing  of  such  a  meritorious  goodness, 
Of  such  an  unmatcht  nobleness,  that  I  may  know 
You  have  a  power  beyond  ours  that  preserves  you  : 
'Tis  not  the  person,  nor  the  royal  title, 
Nor  wealth,  nor  glory,  that  I  look  upon, 
That  inward  man  I  love  that's  lin'd  with  virtue, 
That  well  deserving  soul  works  out  a  favor ; 
I  have  many  Princes  suiters,  many  great  ones, 
Yet  above  these  I   love  you,  you  are  valiant, 
An  a6live  man,  able  to  build  a  fortune  ; 
I  do  not  say  I   dote,  nor  meane  to  marry, 
Only  the  hope  is,  something  may  be  done, 
That  may  compel  my  faith,  and  ask  my  freedome, 
And  leave  opinion  fair. 

Ruy.     Command  dear  Lady, 
And  let  the  danger  be  as  deep  as  Hell, 
As  direful  to  attempt — 

Quisar.     Y'are  too  sudden, 

B.-F.  viu.  G  97 


THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS       ACT  i 

I   must  be   rul'd   by   you,  find  out  a  fortune 
Wisely,  and   hansomely,  examine  time, 
And  court  occasion  that  she   may   be   ready  ; 
A  thousand   uses  for  your  forward  spirit 
Ye  may  find  daily,  be  sure  ye  take  a  good  one, 
A  brave  and  worthy  one  that  may  advance  ye, 
Forc'd  smiles  reward  poor  dangers  ;    you  are  a  Soldier, 
I  wou'd  not  tallce  so  else,  and  I  love  a  Soldier, 
And  that  that  speaks  him  true,  and  great,   his  valor  ; 
Yet  for  all  these  which  are  but  Womens   follies, 
You  may  do  what  you  please,  I  shall  still  know  ye, 
And   though  ye  weare  no  Sword. 

Ru.     Excellent  Lady, 

When  I  grow  so  cold,  and  disgrace  my  Nation, 
That  from  their  hardy  nurses  suck  adventures, 
'Twere  fit  I  wore  a  Tombstone  ;    you  have  read  to  me 
The  story  of  your  favor,  if  I  mistake  it, 
Or  grow  a  truant  in  the  study  of  it, 
A  great  correction  Lady — 

Quisar.     Let's  toth'  banquet, 

And  have  some  merrier  talk,  and  then  to  Court, 
Where  I   give  audience  to  my  general  Suiters  ; 
Pray  heaven  my  womans  wit  hold  ;    there  brave  Captain, 
You  may  perchance  meet  something  that  may  startle  ye  ; 
I'll  say  no  more,  come  be  not  sad  — 
I  love  ye.  [Exeunt. 

Enter  Pyniero,  Armusia,  Soza,  Christophero, 

and  Emanuel. 

Py.     You  are  wellcome  Gentlemen,  most  worthy  welcom, 
And  know  there's  nothing  in  our  power  may  serve  ye, 
But  you  may  freely  challenge. 

Arm.     Sir  we  thank  ye, 
And  rest  your  servants  too. 

Py.     Ye  are  worthy  Portugal:, 
You  shew  the  bravery  of  your  minds  and  spirits  ; 
The  nature  of  our  Country  too,  that  brings  forth 
Stirring,  unwearied  soules  to  seek  adventures  ; 
Minds  never  satisfied  with  search  of  honor 
Where  time  is,  and  the  Sun  gives  light,  brave  Countrymen, 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

Our  names  are  known,  new  worlds  disclose  their  riches, 
Their  beauties,  and  their  prides  to  our  embraces  ; 
And  we  the  first  of  Nations  find  these  wonders. 

Arm.     These  noble  thoughts,  Sir,  have  inticM  us  forward, 
And  minds  unapt  for  ease  to  see  these  miracles, 
In  which   we  find  report  a  poor  relater  ; 
We  are  arriv'd  among  the  blessed  Islands, 
Where  every  wind  that  rises  blows  perfumes, 
And  every  breath  of  air  is  like  an  Incence  : 
The  treasure  of  the  Sun  dwells  here,  each  Tree 
As  if  it  envied  the  old  Paradice, 
Strives  to  bring  forth  immortal  fruit ;    the  Spices 
Renewing  nature,  though  not  deifying, 
And  when   that  falls  by  time,  scorning  the  earth, 
The  sullen  earth  should  taint  or  suck  their  beauties, 
But  as  we  dreamt,  for  ever  so  preserve  us  : 
Nothing  we  see,  but  breeds  an  admiration  ; 
The  very  rivers  as  we  float  along, 

Throw  up  their  pearls,  and  curie  their  heads  to  court  us ; 
The  bowels  of  the  earth  swell  with  the  births 
Of  thousand  unknown  gemms,  and  thousand  riches  ; 
Nothing  that  bears  a  life,   but  brings  a  treasure  ; 
The  people  they  shew  brave  too,  civil  manner'd, 
Proportioned  like  the  Masters  of  great  minds, 
The  Women  which  I  wonder  at — 

Py.     Ye  speak  well. 

Ar.     Of  delicate  aspecls,  fair,  clearly  beauteous, 
And   to  that  admiration,  sweet  and  courteous. 

Py.     And   is  not  that  a  good  thing  ?    brave  Armusia 
You  never  saw  the  Court  before  ? 

Ar.     No  certain, 

But  that  I  see  a  wonder  too,  all  excellent, 
The  Government  exacl. 

Cbr.     Ye  shall  see  anon, 

That  that  will  make  ye  start  indeed,  such  beauties, 
Such  riches,  and  such  form. 

Enter  Bakam,  Syana,  Governor. 

Soz.     We  are  fire  already  ; 
The  wealthy  Magazine  of  nature  sure 

G  2  99 


THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS       ACT  i 

Inhabits  here. 

Arm.     These  sure  are  all   Ilanders. 

Py.     Yes,  and  great   Princes  too,  and  lusty  lovers. 

Ar.     They  are  goodly  persons  ;   What  might  he  be  Signior 
That  bears  so  proud  a  state  ? 

Py.      King  of  Bakam, 
A  fellow  that  farts  terror. 

Em.     He  looks  highly, 
Sure  he  was  begot  o'th'  top  of  a  Steeple. 

Chr.     It  may  well  be, 
For  you  shall  hear  him  ring  anon. 

Py.     That  is  Syana, 
And  a  brave  temper'd  fellow,  and  more  valiant. 

Soz.     What  rugged  face  is  that  ? 

Py.     That's  the  great  Governor, 
The  man  surpriz'd  our  Friend,  I  told  ye  of  him. 

Ar.     'Has  dangerous  eyes. 

Py.     A  perilous  Thief,  and  subtile. 

Cbr.     And  to  that  subtilty  a  heart  of  Iron. 

Py.     Yet  the  young  Lady  makes  it  melt. 

Ar.     They  start  all, 
And  thunder  in  the  eyes. 

Ba.     Away  ye  poor  ones, 
A[m]  I  in  competition  with  such  bubbles? 
My  virtue,  and  my  name  rank'd  with  such  trifles  ? 

Sy.     Ye  speak  loud. 

Ba.     Young-man,  I  will  speak  louder  ; 

Can  any  man  but  I  deserve  her  favor,  [Princes  flie  at 

You  petty  Princes.  one  another^ 

Py.     He  will  put  'em  all  in's  pocket. 

Sy.     Thou  proud  mad  thing  be  not  so  full  of  glory, 
So  full  of  vanity. 

Ba.     How  ?    I  contemn  thee, 
And  that  fort-keeping  fellow. 

Py.     How  the  Dog  looks, 
The  bandog  Governor  ! 

Gov.     Ha,  Why  ? 

Ba.     Away  thing, 

And  keep  your  rank  with  those  that  fit  your  royalty  j 
Call  out  the  Princess. 

100 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

Gov.      Dost  thou  know  me  bladder, 
Thou  insolent  impostume  ? 

Ba.     I  despise  thee  ; 

Gov.     Art  thou  acquainted  with  my  nature  baby  ? 
With  my  revenge  for  Injuries  ?    darst  thou  hold  me 
So  far  behind  thy  file,  I  cannot  reach  thee? 
What  canst  thou  merit  ? 

Ba.     Merit  ?     I  am  above  it ; 
I  am  equal  with  all  honors,  all  atchievements, 
And  what  is  great  and  worthy  ;    the  best  doer 
I  keep  at  my  command,  fortune's  my  servant, 
'Tis  in  my  power  now  to  despise  such  wretches, 
To  look  upon  ye  slightly,  and  neglecl  ye, 
And   but  she  daines  at  some  hours  to  remember  ye, 
And  people  have  bestowed  some  Titles  on  ye, 
I  should  forget  your  names — 

Sy.     Mercy  of  me  ; 
What  a  blown  fool  has  self  affeftion 
Made  of  this  fellow  !    did  not  the  Queen  your  Mother 
Long  for  bellows,  and  bagpipes,  when  she  was  great  with  ye, 
She  brought  forth  such  a  windy  birth  ? 

Gov.     'Tis  ten  to  one 

She  eat  a  Drum,  and  was  deliver'd  of  alarum, 
Or  else  he  was  swadled  in  an  old  saile  when  he  was  young. 

Sy.     He  swells  too  mainly  with   his  meditations  ; 
Faith,  talk  a  little  handsomer,  ride  softly 
That  we  may  be  able  to  hold  way  with  ye,  we  are  Princes, 
But  those  are  but  poor  things  to  you  ;    talk  wiser, 
'Twill  well  become  your  mightiness  ;    talk  less, 
That  men  may  think  ye  can  do  more. 

Gov.     Talk  truth, 

That  men  may  think  ye  are  honest,  and  believe  ye, 
Or  talk  your  self  asleep,  for  I  am  weary  of  you. 

Ba.     Why  ?     I  can   talk  and  do. 

Gov.     That  wou'd  do  excellent. 

Ba.      And  tell  you,  only  I  deserve  the  Princess, 
And  make  good  only  I,  if  you  dare,  you  sir, 
Or  you  Syanas  Prince. 

Py.     Heres  a  storm  toward, 
Methinks  it  sings  already,  to  him  Governor. 

101 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS       ACT  i 

Gov.      Here  lies  my  proof.  [Draw. 

S\.     And   mine. 
Gov.      I'll   be  short   with   ye, 

For  these   long  arguments   I   was  never  good  at. 
Py.      How   white  the   boaster  looks  ! 

Enter  Ruy  Dias,   Quisara,   Quisana,  Panura. 

Ar.     I  see  he  lacks  faith. 

Ru.      For  shame  forbear  great   Princes,   rule  your  angers, 
You  violate  the  freedom  of  this  place, 
The  state  and   Royalty — 

Gov.      He's  well  contented 
It  seems,  and  so  I  have  done. 

Ar.     Is  this  she  Signior  ? 

Py.     This  is  the  Princess  Sir. 

Ar.     She  is  sweet  and  goodly, 
An  admirable  form,  they  have  cause  to  justle. 

Quisar.     Ye  wrong  me  and  my  court,  ye  forward  Princes  ; 
Comes  your  Love  wrapt  in   Violence  to  seek  us  ? 
Is't  fit  though  you  be  great,  my  presence  should  be 
Stain'd,  and  polluted  with  your  bloody  rages  ? 
My  privacies  affrighted  with   your  Swords  ? 
He  that  loves  me,  loves  my  command;  -be  temper'd, 
Or  be  no  more  what  ye  profess,  my  Servants. 

Omnes.     We  are  calme  as  peace. 

Ar.      What  command  she  carries  ! 
And  what  a  sparkling  Majesty  flies  from  her  ! 

Quisar.     Is  it  ye  love  to  do  ?    ye  shall  find  danger, 
And  danger  that  shall  start  your  resolutions, 
But  not  this  way  ;    'tis  not  contention, 
Who  loves  me  to  my  face  best,  or  who  can  flatter  most 
Can  carry  me,  he  that  deserves  my  favor, 
And  will  enjoy  what  I  bring,   love  and  Majesty, 
Must  win  me  with   his  worth  ;    must  travel  for  me  ; 
Must  put  his  hasty  rage  off,  and  put  on 
A  well  confirmed,  a  temperate,  and  true  valor. 

Omnes.     But  shew  the  way. 

Quisar.      And  will,  and  then  shew  you 
A  will  to  tread  the  way,  I'll  say  ye  are  worthy. 

Py.     What  task  now 

IO2 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

Will  she  turn  'em  to  ?    these  hot  youths, 
I  fear  will  find  a  cooling  card,  I  read  in  her  eyes 
Something  that  has  some  swinge  must  flye  amongst  'em  ; 
By  this  hand  I  love  her  a  little  now. 

Quisar.     'Tis  not  unknown  to  you 
I  had  a  royal  Brother,  now  miserable, 
And  Prisoner  to  that  Man  ;    if  I  were  ambitious, 
Gap'd  for  that  glory  was  n're  born  with  me, 
There  he  should  lie  his  miseries  upon  him  : 
If  I  were  covetous,  and  my  heart  set 
On  riches,  and  those  base  effects  that  follow 
On  pleasures  uncontrol'd,  or  safe  revenges, 
There  he  should  die,  his  death   [would]  give  me  all  these ; 
For  then  stood  I  up  absolute  to  do  all ; 
Yet  all  these  flattering  shews  of  dignity, 
These  golden  dreams  of  greatness  cannot  force 
To  forget  nature  and  my  fair  affeclion. 
Therefore  that  Man  that  would  be  known  my  lover, 
Must  be  known  his  redeemer,  and  must  bring  him 
Either  alive  or  dead  to  my  embraces. 
For  even  his  bones  I  scorn  shall  feel  such  slavery, 
Or  seek  another  Mistriss,  'twill  be  hard 
To  do  this,  wondrous  hard,  a  great  adventure, 
Fit  for  a  spirit  of  an  equal  greatness ; 
But  being  done,  the  reward  is  worthy  of  it. 

Chr.     How  they  stand  gaping  all  ! 

Quisar.     Ruy  Dias  cold  ? 

Not  flye  like  fire  into  it  ?    may  be  you  doubt  me, 
He  that  shall  do  this  is  my  husband  Prince  ; 
By  the  bright  heavens  he  is,  by  whose  justice 
I  openly  proclaim  it  ;    if  I  lye, 
Or  seek  to  set  you  on  with  subtilty, 
Let  that  meet  with  me,  and  reward  my  falshood. 
No  stirring  yet,  no  start  into  a  bravery  ? 

Ruy.     Madam,   it  may  be,   but  being  a  main  danger, 
Your  Grace  must  give  me  leave  to  look  about  me, 
And  take  a  little  time,   the  cause  will  ask  it. 
Great  A&s  require  great  counsels. 

Quisar.     Take  your  pleasure, 
I  fear  the  Portugal. 


103 


THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS       ACT  i 

En.     I'll   raise  an   Army 

That   shall   bring  back   [h]is  Island,   Fort  and  all, 
And  fix   it   here. 

Gov.     How  long  will  this  be  doing  ? 
You  should  have  begun   in  your  Grandfather's  days. 

Sy.      What   may   be, 

And  what  my  power  can   promise  noblest  Lady, 
My  will   I  am  sure  stands  fair. 

Quisar.      Faire  be  your  fortune, 
Few  promises  are  best,  and  fair  performance. 

Gov.     These  cannot  doe, 
Their  power  and  arts  are  weak  ones. 
'Tis  in   my   will,  I   have  this   King  your  brother, 
He   is  my  prisoner,  I  accept  your  proffer, 
And   bless  the  fair  occasion   that  atchiev'd  him  : 
I  love  ye,  and  I  honor  ye,  but  speak  ; 
Whether  alive  or  dead  he  shall  be  rendred, 
And  see  how  readily,  how  in  an  instant, 
Quick  as  your  wishes  Lady — 

Quisar.      No,  I  scorn  ye, 

You  and  your  courtesie  ;    I  hate  your  love  Sir  ; 
And  ere  I   would  so  basely  win  his  liberty, 
I   would  study  to  forget  he  was  my  brother  ; 
By  force  he  was  taken  ;    he  that  shall  enjoy  me, 
Shall  fetch  him  back  by  force,  or  never  know  me. 

Py.     As  I  live,  a  rare  Wench. 

Ar.     She  has  a  noble  spirit. 

Gov.     By  force  ? 

Quisar.     Yes  Sir,  by  force,  and  make  you  glad   too 
To  let  him   goe. 

Gov.     How  ?    you  may  look  nobler  on  me, 
And  think  me  no  such  Boy  ;    by  force  he  must  not, 
For  your  love  much   may  be. 

Quisar.     Put  up  your  passion, 

And  pack  ye  home,  I  say,  by  force,  and  suddenly. 
He   lies  there  till  he  rots  else,  although  I  love  him 
Most  tenderly   and  dearly,  as  a  brother, 
And  out  of  these  respects  would  joy  to  see  him  ; 
Yet  to  receive  him  as  thy  courtesie, 
With  all  the  honor  thou  couldst  add  unto  him 

104 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

From  his  hands  that  most  hate  him,  I  had  rather, 
Though  no  condition  were  propounded  for  him, 
See  him  far  sunke  i'th  earth,  and  there  forget  him. 

Py.     Your  hopes  are  gelt  good  Governor. 

Arm.     A  rare  Woman. 

Gov.     Lady, 

I'll  pull  this  pride,  I'll  quench  this  bravery, 
And  turne  your  glorious  scorn  to  tears  and  howlings  ; 
I  will  proud  Princess  ;    this  neglect  of  me 
Shall  make  thy   brother  King  most  miserable  ; 
Shall  turn   him  into  curses  'gainst  thy  cruelty  : 
For  where  before  I  us'd  him  like  a  King, 
And  did  those  Royal  Offices  unto  him  : 
Now  he  shall  lie  a  sad  lump  in  a  dungeon, 
Loden  with  chains  and  fetters,  colds  and  hunger, 
Darkness,  and  lingring  death  for  his  companions  ; 
And  let  me  see  who  dare  attempt  his  rescue, 
What  desperate  fool  ?    look  toward  it ;    farewel, 
And  when  thou  know'st  him  thus,  lament  thy  follies, 
Nay  I  will  make  thee  kneel  to  take  my  offer  : 
Once  more  farewel,  and  put  thy  trust  in  puppits.          [Exit. 

Quisar.     If  none  dare  undertake  it,  I'll  live  a  mourner. 

Ea.     You  cannot  want. 

Sy.     You  must  not. 

Ru.     'Tis  most  dangerous, 

And  wise  men  wou'd  proceed  with  care  and  counsel, 
Yet  some  way  would  I  knew — 
Walke  with  me  Gentlemen —  [Exeunt. 

Ar.      How  do  you  like  her  spirit  ?  Manent,  Arm. 

Soz.     'Tis  a  clear  one,  and  his  Comp. 

Clog'd  with  no  dirty  stuff,  she  is  all  pure  honor. 

Em.     The  bravest  Wench  I  ever  look'd  upon, 
And  of  the  strongest  parts,  she  is  most  fair, 
Yet  her  mind  such  a  mirrour — 

Arm.     What  an  a6lion 

Wou'd  this  be  to  put  forward  on,  what  a  glory, 
And  what  an  everlasting  wealth  to  end  it  ! 
Methinks  my  soul  is  strangely  rais'd. 

Soz.     To  step  into  it, 
Just  while  they  think,'  and  ere  they  have  determined 

105 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS      ACT  n 

To   bring   the   King  off. 

Ar.      Things   have   been   done  as  dangerous. 

Em.      And  prospered  best  when  they  were  least  consider'd. 

Ar.      Bless  me   my   hopes, 
And   you   my   friends  assist   me. 
None   but  our  companions. 

Soz.      You  deale   wisely, 
And   if  we  shrink  the  name  of  slaves  dye  with  us. 

Em.     Stay   not   for  second   thoughts. 

Ar.     I  am  determin'd  ; 

And  though   I  lose,  it  shall   be  sung,  I   was  valiant, 
And   my   brave  offer  shall   be  turn'd  to  story, 
Worthy  the  Princess  tongue.     A  Boat,  that's  all 
That's  unprovided,  and  habits  like  to   Merchants, 
The  rest  wee'l  councel  as  we  goe. 

Soz.     Away  then, 
Fortune  looks  fair  on  those,  make  haste  to  win   her. 

[Exeunt. 

Affius  Secundus.     Sccena  Prima. 

Enter  Keeper,   and  2   or  3   Moores. 

Kee.  Have  kept  many  a  Man,  and  many  a  great  one, 

Yet  I   confess,  I  nere  saw   before 
A   Man  of  such  a  sufferance  ;    he  lies  now 
Where   I   would   not  lay  my  dog,  for  sure  'twould  kill  him. 
Where  neither  light  or  comfort  can  come  near  him  ; 
Nor  air,  nor  earth   that's  wholsome  ;    it  grieves  me 
To  see  a  mighty   King  with  all  his  glory, 
Sunk  o'th'  sudden  to  the  bottome  of  a  dungeon. 
Whether  should  we  descend  that  are  poor  Rascals 
If  we  had  our  deserts? 

i.  Mo.      'Tis  a  strange  wonder, 

Load  him  with   Irons,  oppress  him   with  contempts, 
Which  are  the  Governors  commands,  give  him   nothing, 
Or  so  little,  to  sustain   life,  'tis  next  nothing  ; 
They  stir  not  him,  he  smiles  upon  his  miseries, 
And   beares  'em  with  such  strength,  as  if  his  nature 
Had  been  nurs'd  up,  and  foster'd  with   calamities. 

1 06 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

2.     He  gives  no  ill  words,  curses,  nor  repines  not, 
Blames  nothing,  hopes  in  nothing,  we  can  hear  of; 
And  in  the  midst  of  all  these  frights,   fears  nothing. 

Kee.     I'll  be  sworne 

He  fears  not,  for  even  when  I  shake  for  him, 
As  many  times  my  pitty  will  compell  me, 
When  other  souls,  that  bear  not  half  his  burthen, 
Shrink  in  their  powers,  and  burst  with  their  oppressions  ; 
Then   will  he  Sing,  wooe  his  afflictions, 
And  court  'em  in  sad  airs,  as  if  he  wou'd  wed  'em. 

1.  That's  more  than  we  have  heard  yet,  we  are  only 
Appointed  for  his  Guard,   but  not  so  near  him, 

If  we  could   hear  that  wonder — 

Kee.     Many  times 

I   fear  the  Governor  should  come  to  know  it ; 
For  his  voice  so  affefts  me,  so  delights  me, 
That  when   I  find   his  hour,  I  have  Musick  ready, 
And  it  stirs  me  infinitely,  be  but  still  and  private, 
And  you  may  chance  to  hear. 
[King  appears  loden  with  chains,  his  head,  and  armes  only  above. 

2.  We  will  not  stir,   Sir  ; 

This  is  a  sudden  change,   but  who  dares  blame  it. 

Kee.     Now  hark  and  melt,  for  I  am  sure  I  shall  ; 
Stand  silent,  what  stubborn  weight  of  chains — 

1.  Yet  he  looks  temperately. 

2.  His  eyes  not  sunk,  and  his  complexion  firm  still, 
No  wildness,   no  distemper'd  touch  upon  him, 

How  constantly  he  smiles,  and  how  undanted  ! 

With  what  a  Majesty  he  heaves  his  head  up  !  [Musick. 

Kee.  Now  marke,  I  know  he  will  sing;  do  not  disturb  him. 
Your  allowance  from  the  Governor,  wou'd  it  were  more  sir, 
Or  in  my  power  to  make  it  hansomer. 

Kin.     Do  not  transgress  thy  charge,  I  take  his  bounty, 
And  fortune,  whilst  I   bear  a  mind  contented 
Not  leaven'd   with  the  glory  I  am  falen  from, 
Nor  hang  upon  vain  hopes,  that  may  corrupt  me. 

Enter  Governor. 


Gov.     Thou  art  my  slave,  and  I  appear  above  thee. 
Kee.     The  Governor  himself. 


107 


THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS      ACT  n 

Gov.     What,  at  your  banquet  ? 
And   in   such   state,  and   with  such   change  of  service  ? 

Kin.     Nature's  no  glutton,   Sir,  a  little  serves  her. 

Gov.      This  diet's  holsome  then. 

Kin.      I   beg  no  better. 

Gov.     A  calm   contented  mind,  give  him   less  next  ; 
These  full  meals  will  oppress  his  health,  his  Grace 
Is  of  a  tender,  and  pure  constitution, 
And  such   repletions — 

Kin.     Mock,  mock,   it  moves  not  me  sir, 
Thy  mirths,  as  do  thy  mischiefs,  flie   behind   me. 

Gov.     Ye  carry   it  handsomely,  but  tell  me  patience, 
Do  not  you  curse  the  brave  and  royal  Lady 
Your  gracious  sister  ?    do  not  you  damn  her  pitty, 
Damn  twenty  times  a  day,  and  damn   it  seriously  ? 
Do  not  you  swear  aloud   too,  cry  and  kick  ? 
The  very  soul  sweat   in  thee  with  the  agony 
Of  her  contempt  of  me  ?     Couldst  not  thou  eat  her 
For  being  so  injurious  to  thy  fortune, 

Thy  fair  and  happy  fortune  ?     Couldst  not  thou  wish   her 
A   Bastard,  or  a  Whore,  fame  might  proclame  her  ; 
Black  ugly  fame,  or  that  thou  hadst  .had  no  sister  ? 
Spitting  the  general  name  out,  and  the  nature  ; 
Blaspheming  heaven   for  making  such  a  mischief; 
For  giving  power  to  pride,  and  will  to  Woman  ? 

Kin.     No  Tyrant,  no,  i  bless  and  love  her  for  it  ; 
And  though  her  scorn  of  thee,  had  laid  up  for  me 
As  many  plagues  as  the  corrupted  air  breeds, 
As  many  mischiefs  as  the  hours  have  minutes, 
As  many  formes  of  Death,  as  doubt  can  figure  ; 
Yet  I  should  love   [her]   more  still,  and  more  honor  her ; 
All  thou  canst  lay  upon  me,  cannot  bend  me, 
No  not  the  stroke  of  death,  that  I  despise  too  : 
For  if  fear  could  possess  me,  thou  hadst  won  me  ; 
As  little  from  this  hour  I  prize  thy  flatteries, 
And  less  than  those  thy  prayers,  though   thou  wouldst  kneel 
And   if  she  be  not  Mistriss  of  this  nature,  (to  me  ; 

She  is  none  of  mine,  no  kin,  and  I   contemne  her. 

Gov.     Are  you  so  valiant  sir  ? 

Kin.     Yes,  and  so  fortunate  ; 

108 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 


r  he  that  holds  his  constancy  still  conquers  ; 
Hadst  thou  preserved  me  as  a  noble  enemy, 
And  as  at  first,  made  my  restraint  seem  to  me 
But  only  as  the  shadow  of  captivity, 
I  had  still  spoke  thee  noble,  still  declar'd  thee 
A  valiant,  great,  and  worthy  man,  still  lov'd  thee, 
And  still  prefer'd  thy  fair  love  to  my  sister  ; 
But  to  compell  this  from  me  with  a  misery, 
A   most  inhumane,  and  unhandsome  slavery  — 

Gov.     You  will  relent  for  all  this  talk  I   fear  not, 
And  put  your  wits  a  work  agen. 

Kin.     You  are  cozen'd  ; 

Or  if  I  were  so  weak  to  be  wrought  to  it, 
So  fearful  to  give  way  to  so  much  poverty, 
How  I  should  curse  her  heart  if  she  consented  ! 

Gov.     You  shall  write,  and  entreat,  or  — 

Kin.     Do  thy  utmost, 

And  e'en   in  all  thy  tortures  I'll  laugh  at  thee, 
I'll  think  thee  no  more  valiant,   but  a  villain  ; 
Nothing  thou  hast  done  brave,   but  like  a  thief, 
AtchievM  by  craft,  and  kept  by  cruelty  ; 
Nothing  thou  canst  deserve,  thou  art  unhonest  ; 
Nor  no  way  live  to  build  a  Name,  thou  art  barbarous. 

Gov.     Down  with  him  low  enough,  there  let  him  murmur, 
And  see  his  diet  be  so  light  and  little, 
He  grow  not  thuc.  high  hearted  on't,  I  will  coole  ye, 
And  make  ye  cry  for  mercy,  and  be  ready 
To  work  my  ends,  and  willingly  ;  and  your  sister  taken  down, 
Your  scornful,  cruel  sister  shall  repent  too, 
And  sue  to  me  for  grace. 
Give  him  no  liberty, 

But  let  his  bands  be  doubled,  his  ease  lessened  ; 
Nothing  his  heart  desires,  but  vex  and  torture  him  : 
Let  him  not  sleep,  nothing  that's  dear  to  nature 
Let  him  enjoy  ;    yet  take  heed  that  he  dye  not  ; 
Keep  him   as  near  death,  and  as  willing  to  embrace  it, 
But  see  he  arrive  not  at  it  ;    I  will  humble  him. 
And  her  stout  heart  that  stands  on  such  defiance  ; 
And  let  me  see  her  champions  that  dare  venture 
Her  high  and  mighty  wooers,  keep  your  guards  close, 

109 


THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS      ACT  n 

And  as  you  love  your  lives  be  diligent. 
And  what   I  charge,  observe. 

Omnes.     We  shall   be  dutiful.  [Exit  Gov. 

Gov.     I'll  pull  your  courage   King,  and  all  your  bravery. 

1.  Most  certain  he  is  resolved  nothing  can  stir  him  ; 
For  if  he  had  but  any  part  about  him 

Gave   way    to  fear  or  hope,   he  durst  not  talk  thus, 
And  do  thus  stoutly  too,  as  willingly, 
And  quietly  he  sunk  down   to  his  sorrows, 
As  some  men   [to]   their  sleeps. 

Keep.      Yes,  and  sleeps  with   e'm  ; 
So  little  he  regards  them,  there's  the  wonder, 
And  often  soundly  sleeps,  wou'd   I  durst  pity   him, 
Or  wou'd   it  were   in  my  will,   but  we  are  servants, 
And  tied  unto  command. 

2.  I  wish  him  better, 

But  much  I  fear  h'as  found  his  tombe  already, 
We  must  observe  our  guards. 

1.  He  cannot  last  long, 
And  when  he  is  dead,  he  is  free. 

Kee.     That's  the  most  cruelty, 
That  we  must  keep  him  living. 

2.  That's  as  he  please  ; 

For  that  Man  that  resolves,  needs  no  Phisitian.          [Exeunt. 

Enter  Armusia,  Soza,  Emanuel  like  Merchants, 
arnCd  underneath. 

Arm.     Our  prosperous  passage  was  an  omen  to  us, 
A  lucky  and  a  fair  omen. 

Omnes.     We  believe  it. 

Ar.     The  Sea  and  Wind  strove  who  should  most  befriend 
And  as  they  favour'd  our  design,  and  lov'd  us,  (us, 

So  lead  us  forth — Where  lies  the  Boat  that  brought  us  ? 

Soz.     Safe  lodg'd  within  the  Reeds,  close   by  the    Castle, 
That  no  eye  can  suspect,  nor  thought  come  near  it. 

Em.     But  where  have  you  been,  brave  sir  ? 

Ar.     I  have  broke  the  Ice  Boyes  : 
I  have  begun  the  game,  fair  fortune  guide  it, 
Suspeftless  have  I  travell'd  all  the  Town  through, 
And  in  this  Merchants  shape  won  much  acquaintance, 

no 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

Survey'd  each  strength  and  place  that  may  befriend  us, 
View'd  all  his  Magazines,  got  perfect  knowledge 
Of  where  the  Prison   is,  and  what  power  guards  it. 

Soz.     These  will  be  strong  attempts. 

Ar.     Courage  is  strong  : 

What  we  beg[a]n  with  policy,  my  dear  friends, 
Let's  end  with  manly  force  ;    there's  no  retiring, 
Unless  it  be  with  shame. 

Em.     Shame  his  that  hopes  it. 

Ar.     Better  a  few,  and  clearer  fame  will  follow  us, 
However,  lose  or  win,  and  speak  our  memories, 
Than  if  we  led  our  Armies  ;    things  done  thus, 
And  of  this  noble  weight,  will  stile  us  worthies. 

Soz.     Dire6l,  and  we  have  done,  bring  us  to  execute, 
And  if  we  flinch,  or  fail — 

Ar.     I  am  sure  ye  dare  not. 
Then  farther  know,  and  let  no  ear  be  near  us, 
That  may  be  false. 

Em.     Speak  boldly  on,  we  are  honest ; 
Our  lives  and  fortunes  yours. 

Ar.     Hard  by  the  place  then 

Where  all  his  Treasure  lies,  his  Armes,  his  Women, 
Close  by  the  Prison  too  where  he  keeps  the  King, 
I  have  hir'd  a  lodging,  as  a  Trading  Merchant, 
A  Celler  to  that  too,  to  stow  my  Wares  in, 
The  very  Wall  of  which,  joynes  to  his  store-house. 

Soz.     What  of  all  this  ? 

Ar.     Ye  are  dull,  if  ye  apprehend  not : 
Into  that  Cellar,  elected  friends,  I  have  convey'd, 
And  unsuspected  too,  that  that  will  do  it ; 
That  that  will  make  all  shake,  and  smoak  too. 

Em.     Ha  ? 

Ar.     My  thoughts  have  not  been  idle,  nor  my  pradlice  : 
The  fire  I  brought  here  with  me  shall  do  something, 
Shall  burst  into  material  flames,  and  bright  ones, 
That  all  the  Island  shall  stand  wondring  at  it, 
As  if  they  had  been  stricken  with  a  Comet  : 
Powder  is  ready,  and  enough  to  work  it, 
The  Match  is  left  a-fire,  all,  all  husht,  and  lockt  close, 
No  man  suspecling  what  I  am  but  Merchant : 

III 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS      ACT  n 

An   hour  hence,   my   brave  friends,   look  for  the  fury, 
The   fire  to   light   us  to  our   honour'd   purpose, 
For  by  that  tune  'twill   take. 

Soz.      What   are  our  duties  ? 

Ar.     When  all  are  full  of  fear  and  fright,  the  Governor 
Out  of  his  wits,   to  see   the  flames  so  imperious, 
Ready  to  turn  to  ashes  all  he  worships, 
And  all  the  people  there  to  stop  these  ruins, 
No  man   regarding  any  private  office  ; 
Then  flie  we  to  the   prison  suddenly, 
Here's  one  has  found  the  way,  and  dares  direcl  us. 

Em.     Then  to  our  swords  and  good  hearts, 
I  long  for   it. 

Ar.     Certain  we  shall  not   find  much   opposition, 
But  what  is  must  be  forced. 

Soz.     'Tis  bravely  cast  Sir, 
And  surely  too  I  hope. 

Ar.     If  the  fire  fail  not, 

And  powder  hold  his  nature,  some  must  presently 
Upon  the  first  cry  of  th'  amazed  people, 
(For  nothing  will  be  markt  then,  but  the  misery) 
Be   ready  with  the  boat  upon  an   instant, 
And  then  all's  right  and  fair. 

Em.     Bless  us  dear  fortune. 

Ar.     Let  us  be  worthy  of  it  in  our  courage, 
And  fortune  must  befriend  us,  come  all  sever, 
But  keep  still  within  sight,  when  the  flame  rises 
Let's  meet,  or  either  doe,  or  dye. 

Soz.     So  be   it.  [Exeunt. 

Enter  Governor,  and  Captain. 

Gov.     No  Captain,  for  those  Troops  we  need  'em  not, 
The  Town  is  strong  enough  to  stand  their  furies ; 
I  wou'd  see  'em  come,  and  offer  to  do  something. 
They  arc  high  in  words. 

Cap.     'Tis  safer  Sir  then  doing. 

Gov.     Dost  think  they  dare  attempt  ? 

Cap.     May  be  by  Treaty, 
But  sure  by  force  they  will  not  prove  so  froward. 

Gov.    No  faith,  I  warrant  thee,  they  know  me  well  enough 

112 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

And  know  they  have  no  Child  in  hand  to  play  with  : 
They  know  my  nature  too,  I  have  bit  some  of  'em, 
And  to  the  bones,  they  have  reason  to  remember  me, 
It  makes  me  laugh  to  think  how  glorious 
The  fools  are  in  their  promises,  and  how  pregnant 
Their  wits  and.  powers  are  to  bring  things  to  pass  ; 
Am  I  not  grown  lean  with  loss  of  sleep  and  care 
To  prevent  these  threatnings,  Captain  ? 

Cap.     You  look  well  Sir  : 

Upon  my  conscience  you  are  not  like  to  sicken 
Upon  any  such  conceit. 

Gov.     I  hope  I  shall  not : 

Well,  wou'd  I  had  this  Wench,  for  I  must  have  her, 
She  must  be  mine  ;    and  there's  another  charge  Captain  ; 
What  betwixt  love  and  brawling  I  got  nothing, 
All  goes  in  maintenance — 

Heark,  What  was  that,  [The  Train  takes. 

That  noise  there  ?    it  went  with  a  violence. 

Cap.     Some  old  wall  belike  Sir, 
That  had  no  neighbor  help  to  hold  it  up, 
Is  fallen  suddenly. 

Gov.     I  must  discard  these  Rascals, 
That  are  not  able  to  maintain  their  buildings, 
They  blur  the  beauty  of  the  Town. 

Within.     Fire,  Fire. 

Gov.     I  hear  another  .tune,  good  Captain, 
It  comes  on  fresher  still,  'tis  loud  and  fearful, 
Look  up  into  the  Town,  how  bright  the  ayr  shewes  ; 
Upon  my  life  some  sudden  fire.  [Ex.  Cap. 

The  bell  too?  [Bell  Rings. 

I  hear  the  noise  more  clear. 

Enter  Citizen. 

Cit.     Fire,  fire. 

Gov.     Where  ?    where  ? 

Cit.     Suddenly  taken  in  a  Merchan[t]s  house  sir, 
Fearful  and  high  it  blazes  ;    help  good  people. 

Gov.     Pox  o'their  paper-houses,  how  they  smother, 
They  light  like  Candles,  how  the  rore  still  rises  ! 

B.-F.  VIII.  H  113 


THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS      ACT  n 

Enter   Captain. 

Cap.      Your  Magazine's  a  fire  Sir,   help,   help  suddenly, 
The  Castle  too  is  in   danger,   in   much   danger, 
All   will   be  lost,  get  the  people  presently, 
And  all  that  are  your   Guard,  and  all   help,  all   hands  Sir, 
Your  wealth,  your  strength,  is  burnt  else,  the  Town  perisht ; 
The  Castle  now  begins  to  flame. 

Gov.     My  soul  shakes. 

Cap.    A  Merchants  house  next  joyning  ?  shame  light  on  him, 
That  ever  such  a  neighbour,  such  a  villain — 

Gov.     Raise  all  the  Garrison,  and  bring  'em  up. 

Enter  other  Citizens. 

And  beat  the  people  forward — Oh  I  have  lost  all 

In  one  house,  all  my  hopes  :    good  worthy  Citizens 

Follow  me  all,  and  all  your  powers  give  to  me, 

I  will  reward  you  all.      Oh  cursed  fortune — 

The  flame's  more  violent  :    arise  still,  help,  help,  Citizens, 

Freedom  and  wealth  to  him  that  helps  :    follow,  oh  follow. 

Fling  wine,  or  any  thing,  I'll  see't  reconpenc'd. 

Buckets,   more  Buckets  ;    fire,  fire,  fire.  [Ex.  omnes. 

Enter  Armusia,  and  his  company. 

Arm.     Let  it  flame  on,  a  comely  light  it  gives  up 
To  our  discovery. 

Soz.      Heark,  what  a  merry  cry 
These  hounds  make  !    forward  fairly, 

We  are  not  seen  in  the  mist,  we  are  not  noted.     Away, 
Away.     Now  if  we  lose  our  fortune —  [Exit. 

Enter  Captain  and  Citizens. 

Cap.     Up  Soldiers,  up,  and  deal  like  men. 

Cit.     More  water,  more  water,  all  is  consum'd  else. 

Cap.  All's  gone,  unless  you  undertake  it  straight,  your 
Wealth  too,  that  must  preserve,  and  pay  your  labor  bravely. 
Up,  up,  away.  [Ex.  Cap.  and  Cit.  Then, 

114 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

Enter  Armusia  and  his  company  breaking  open 

a  Doore. 

Ar.     So,  thou  art  open,  keep  the  way  clear 
Behind  still.     Now  for  the  place. 

Sold.     'Tis  here  Sir. 

Ar.     Sure  this  is   it. 

Force  ope  the  doore — A  miserable  crea'  ure  ! 
Yet  by  his  manly  face —  [The  King  discovered. 

Kin.     Why  stare  ye  on  me  ? 
You  cannot  put  on   faces  to  afright   me  : 
In  death  I  am  a  King  still,  and  contemne  ye  : 
Where  is  that  Governor  ?     Methinks  his  Man-hood 
Should   be  well  pleas'd  to  see  my  Tragedy, 
And  come  to  bath  his  stern   eyes  in   my  sorrows  ; 
I   dare  him  to  the  sight,  bring  his  scorns  with   him, 
And  all  his  rugged  threats  :    here's  a  throat,  soldiers  ; 
Come,  see  who  can  strike  deepest. 

Em.     Break  the  Chain  there. 

Kin.     What  does  this  mean  ? 

Ar.     Come,  talke  of  no  more  Governors, 
He  has  other  business,  Sir,  put  your  Legs  forward, 
And  gather  up  your  courage  like  a  Man, 
Wee'll  carry  off  your  head  else  :    we  are  friends, 
And  come  to  give  your  sorrows  ease. 

Soz.     On   bravely  ; 
Delayes  may  lose  agen. 

Enter  Guard. 

Ar.     The  Guard. 

Soz.     Upon  'em. 

Ar.     Make  speedy,  and  sure  work. 

Em.     They   flie. 

Ar.     Up  with  him,  and  to  the  Boat  ;   stand  fast,  now  be 
When  this  heat's  past,  wee'll  sing  our  History.  (speedy  ; 

Away,  like  thoughts,  sudden  as  desires,  friends  ; 
Now  sacred  chance  be  ours. 

Soz.     Pray  when  we  have  done,  Sir.  [Exeunt. 

H  2  115 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS      ACT  n 

Enter   3   or  4    Citizens   severally* 

1.  What  is  the  fire  allaid  ? 

2.  'Tis  out,   'tis  out, 

Or  past  the  worst,   I  never  did  so  stoutly 

I'll  assure  you   neighbours  since  I   was  a   Man  : 

I   have  been   burnt  at   both  ends  like  a  squib  : 

I  liv'd  two  hours  in  the  fire,  'twas  a  hideous  matter  ; 

But   when   men  of  understanding  come  about   it, 

Men  that  judge  of  things,   my   Wife  gave  me  over, 

And  took  her  leave  a  hundred  times,  I  bore  up  still, 

And  tost  the  Buckets  Boys. 

3.  We  are  all   meere  Martins. 

1.  I  heard   a  voice  at  latter  end  o'th   hurry, 
Or  else  I  dreamt  I   heard   it,  that  said  Treason. 

2.  'Tis  like  enough,  it  might  cry  Murder  too,  for  there  was 
Many  without  a  joint,   but  what's  that  to  us  :    Let's   home 
And  fright  our  Wives,  for  we  look  like  Devils. 

Enter  3    IVomen. 

3.  Here  come  some  of  'em  to  fright  us. 

1  IV.     Mine's  alive  neighbor — oh  sweet  hony  husband. 
2.     Thou  liest,  I  think  abominably,  and  thou  hadst  been 

In   my  place,  thou  wouldst  have  stunk  at  both  ends. 
Get   me  some  drink,  give  me  whole  Tuns  of  drink, 
Whole  cisterns  ;    for  I  have  four  dozen  of  fine  firebrands 
In   my  belly,  I  have  more  smoke  in   my  mouth,  than  would 
Blote  a  hundred   Herrings. 

2  JVo.     Art  thou  come  safe  agen  ? 

3  IVo.     I  pray  you  what  became  of  my  man,  is  he  in  a  Well? 
2.      At  hearts  ease  in  a  Well,   is  very  well  neighbor  ; 

We  left  him  drinking  of  a  new  dozen  of  Buckets  ; 
Thy  husbands  happy,  he  was  through   roasted, 
And  now  he's  basting  of  himself  at  all  points  : 
The  Clark  and  he  are  cooling  their  pericraniums  ; 
Body   [O]   me  neighbors  there's  fire  in  my   Codpiece. 
I  Wo.     Bless  my   Husband. 

2.  Blow  it  out  Wife — blow,   blow,    the  gable  end  a'th' 
IVomen.     Some  water,  water,  water.  (store-house. 

3.  Peace,  'tis  but  a  sparkle ; 

Raise  not  the  Town  again,  'twill  be.  a  great  hindrance, 

116 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

I'm  glad  'tis  out,  and't  had  ta'en  in   my   Hay-loft  ? 

What  frights  are   [tjhese,   marry  heaven  bless  thy  modicum. 

3  Wo.     But  is  a  drown'd  outright,  pray  put  me  out  of 
Fear  neighbor. 

2.     Thou  wouldst   have  it  so,   but  after  a  hundred  fires 
More,  he'll  live  to  see  thee  burnt  for  brewing  musty 
Liquor. 

1.  Come,  let's  go  neighbor. 

2.  For  I  would  very  fain  turn  down  this  liquor ; 
Come,  come,  I  fry  like  a  burnt  mary-bone  : 
Women  get  you  afore,  and  draw  upon  us  ; 

Run  wenches,  run,  and  let  your  Taps  run  with  ye  ; 
Run  as  the  fire  were  in  your  tails,  cry  Ale,  Ale. 

Worn.     Away,  let's  nourish  the  poor  wretches. 

2.     We'll  rallie  up  the  rest  of  the  burnt   Regiment. 

Enter  Governor,   Captain,  So Idler ,  and  Guard. 

Gov.  The  fire's  quencht  Captain,  but  the  mischief  hangs  still ; 
The  King's  redeem'd,  and  gone  too;  a  trick,  a  dam'd  one: 
Oh  I  am  overtaken  poorly,  tamely. 

Cap.     Where  were  the  guard  that  waited  upon  the  prison  ? 

Sol.     Most  of'em  slain,  yet  some  scap'd,  Sir,  and  they  deliver, 
They  saw  a  little  boat  ready  to  receive  him, 
And  those  redeem'd  him,  making  such  haste  and  fighting; 
Fighting  beyond  the  force  of  men. 

Gov.     I  am   lost  Captain, 

And  all  the  world  will  laugh  at  this,  and  scorn  me: 
Count  me  a  heavy  sleepy   fool,  a  coward, 
A  coward  past  recovery,  a  confirm'd  coward, 
One  without  carriage,  or  common  sense. 

Sol.     Hee's  gon  Sir, 

And  put  to  Sea  amaine,  past  our  recovery, 
Not  a  Boat  ready  to  pursue  ;    if  there  were  any, 
The  people  stand  amazed  so  at  their  valor, 
And  the  sudden   fright  of  fire,   none  knows  to  execute. 

Gov.  Oh,  I  could  tear  my  limbs,  and  knock  my  boys 
'Gainst  every  post  I  meet ;  fool'd  with  a  fire  ?  (brains 

Cap.     It  was  a  crafty  trick. 

Gov.     No,  I  was  lazy, 
Confident  sluggish  lazie,  had   I   but  met  'em 

117 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS      ACT  n 

And   chang'd   a  dozen   blowes,   I   had   forgiv'n   'em, 
By   both   these  hands   held   up,   and   by   that   brightness 
That  glides  the  world   with   light,   by  all   our  worships, 
The  hidden   ebbes  and  flowes  of  the   blew   Ocean, 
I  will   not   rest  ;    no   mirth   shall   dwell   upon   me, 
Wine  touch   my   mouth,   nor  any   thing   refresh   me, 
Till   I   be  wholly  quit  of  this  dishonor  : 
Make  ready   my   Barrators  instantly, 
And   what  I  shall   intend — 

Cap.     We  are  your  servants.  [Exeunt. 

Enter  Quisara,   Ruy   Dyas. 

Quhar.      Never  tell   me,  you   never  car'd   to  win   me, 
Never  for  my  sake  to  attempt  a  deed, 
Might  draw  me  to  a  thought,  you  sought  my  favor  : 
If  not  for  love  of  me,   for  love  of  armes  Sir, 
For  that  cause  you  profess,  for  love  of  honor, 
Of  which  you  stile  your  self  the  mighty  Master, 
You  might  have  stept  out  nobly,  and   made  an  offer, 
As  if  you  had  intended  something  excellent, 
Put  on  a  forward  face. 

Ru.     Dear  Lady  hold  me — 

Quhar.     I   hold  ye,  as  I  find  ye,  a  faint  servant. 

Ru.     By   I  dare  doe — 

Quisar.     In  a  Ladies  chamber 
I   dare  believe  ye,  there's  no  mortal  danger  : 
Give  me  the  man  that  dares  do,  to  deserve  that  : 
I  thought  you  Portugal*  had  been   rare  wonders, 
Men  of  those  haughty  courages  and  credits, 
That  all  things  were  confin'd  within  your  promises, 
The  Lords  of  fate  and  fortune  I   believ'd  ye, 
But  well  I  see  I  am  deceiv'd  Ruy  Dias, 
And   blame,  too  late,  my  much   beliefe. 

Ru.     I  am  asham'd,  Lady, 
I  was  so  dull,  so  stupid  to  your  offer  : 
Now  you  have  once  more  school'd  me,  I  am  right, 
And  something  shall  be  thought  on  suddenly, 
And  put  in  Aft  as  soon,  some  preparation — 

Quisar.     And  give  it  out  ? 

Ru.     Yes,  Lady,  and  so  great  too  ; 

118 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

In  which,  the  noise  of  all  my  Countrey-men — 

Quisar.     Those  will  do  well,  for  they  are  all  approved  ones, 
And  though  he  be  restor'd  alive. 

Ru.     I  have  ye. 

Quisar.     For  then  we  are  both  servants. 

Ru.     I  conceive  ye, 
Good  Madam  give  me  leave  to  turn  my  fancies. 

Quis.    Do,  and  make  all  things  fit,  and  then  I'll  visit  you.  [Ex. 

Ru.     My  self,  the  Cozen,  and  the  Garrison, 
The  neighbors  of  the  out-Isles  of  our  Nation, 
Syana's  strength,  for  I  can   humor  him  : 

And  proud  Bekamus,  I  shall  deceive  his  glory.  \_A  shout. 

What  ringing  sound  of  joy  is  this  ?    whence  comes  it  ? 
May  be  the  Princes  are  in  sport. 

Enter  Pyniero,  Christoph. 

Py.     Where  are  ye  ? 

Ru.     Now  Pyniero,  What's  the  haste  you  seek  me  ? 

Py.     Doe  you  know  this  sign  Sir  ? 

Ru.     Ha ! 

Py.     Do  you  know  this  embleme  : 
Your  nose  is  boar'd. 

Ru.     Boar'd?     What's  that? 

Py.     Y'are  topt  Sir  : 
The  King's  come  home  again,  the  King. 

Ru.     The  Devil  ! 

Py.     Nay  sure  he  came  a  Gods  name  home  : 
He's  return'd  Sir. 

Christ.     And  all  this  joy  ye  hear — 

Ru.     Who  durst  attempt  him  ? 
The  Princes  are  all  here. 

Chry.     They  are  worthy  Princes, 
They  are  special  Princes,  all  they  love  by  ounces. 
Believe  it  Sir,  'tis  done,  and  done  most  bravely  and  easily. 
What  fortune  have  ye  lost  Sir  ? 
What  justice  have  ye  now  unto  this  Lady  ? 

Py.     How  stands  your  claim  ? 
That  ever  Man  should  be  fool'd  so, 
When   he  should  do  and  prosper  ;    stand  protesting, 
Kissing  the  hand,  and  farting  for  a  favor, 

119 


THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS      ACT  n 

\Vhen   he  should   be  about   his  business   sweating  ; 

She  bid   you   go,  and   piclct   you   out   a   purpose,  (one, 

To  make  your  self  a  fortune  by,  a  Lady,  a  Lady,  and  a  lusty 

A   lovely,   that   now   you   may  go  look,  she  pointed  ye, 

Knowing  you   were  a  man   of  worth   and   merit, 

And   bid  you  fly,  you   have   made  a  fair   flight  on't, 

You  have  caught  a  Goose. 

Ru.      How  dare  you  thus  molest  me  ?  \_A  shout. 

It  cannot  be. 

Chr.      Heark  how   the  general  joy   rings  ! 

Py.      Have  you  your  hearing  left  ?    Is  not  that  drunk  too  ? 
For  if  you   had   been  sober,  you  had   been  wise  sure. 

Ru.     Done  ?     Who  dares  do  ? 

Py.     It  seems  an   honest  fellow, 
That  has  ended  his  Market  before  you  be  up. 

Chr.     The  shame  on't   's  a  stranger  too. 

Py.     'Tis  no  shame, 

He  took  her  at  her  word,  and  tied  the  bargain, 
Dealt  like  a  man   indeed,  stood  not  demurring, 
But  clapt  close  to  the  cause,  as  he  will  do  to  the  Lady  : 
'Is  a  fellow  of  that  speed  and  handsomness, 
He  will  get  her  with  child  too,  ere  you  shall  come  to  know 
Is  it  not  brave,  a  gentleman  scarce  landed,  (him, 

Scarce  eating  of  the  air  here,  not  acquainted, 
No  circumstance  of  love  depending  on  him, 
Nor  no  command  to  shew  him,  must  start  forth, 
At  the  first  sight  to — 

Ru.     I  am  undone. 

Py.     Like  an   Oyster  : 

She  neither  taking  view,   nor  value  of  him, 
Unto  such   deeds  as  these — Pox  o'  these, 
These  wise  delayings — 
They  make  men  cowards. 

You  are   undone  as  a  man  would  undoe  an  egge, 
A  hundred  shames  about  ye. 

Enter  Quisara,   Panura,   and  Tra'ine. 

Quisar.     Can   it  be  possible, 

A  stranger  that  I   have  not  known,  not  seen   yet, 
A  man  I  never  grac'd  ,    O   Captain,  Captain, 

1 2O 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

What  shall  I  do  ?      I  am  betray'd  by  fortune, 
It  cannot  be,  it  must  not  be. 

Py.     It  is  Lady, 

And  by  my  faith  a  hansome  Gentleman  ; 
'Tis  his  poor  Schollers  prize. 

Quisar.     Must  I  be  given 
Unto  a  Man  I  never  saw,  ne're  spoke  with, 
I  know  not  of  what  Nation  ? 

Py.     Is  a  Portugal, 

And  of  as  good  a  pitch  he  will  be  giv'n  to  you  Lady, 
For  he's  given  much  to  hansome  flesh. 

Quisar.      Oh   Ruy  Dias, 
This  was  your  sloth,  your  sloth,  your  sloth   Ruy  Dias. 

Py.     Your  love  sloth  ;    Unckle  do  you  find  it  now  ? 
You  should  have  done  at  first,  and  faithfully  :  \_A  shout. 

And  then  th'other  had  lyed  ready  for  ye  ; 
Madam,  the  general  joy  comes. 

Quisar.     We  must  meet  it — but  with  what  comfort  ? 

Enter  Citizens  carrying  boughs,  boyes  singing  after  'em  ; 

Then  King,  Armusia,  Soza,   Emanuel  ;    The 

Princes  and  train  following. 

Quisar.     Oh  my  dear  brother,  what  a  joy  runs  through  me, 
To  see  you  safe  again,  your  self,  and  mighty, 
What  a  blest  day  is  this  ! 

Kin.     Rise  up  fair  Sister, 
I  am  not  welcome  till  you  have  embraced  me. 

Ru.     A  general  gladness  sir  flies  through  the  City, 
And  mirth  possesses  all  to  see  your  Grace  arrive, 
Thus  happily  arriv'd  again,  and  fairly  ; 
'Twas  a  brave  venture  who  so  e'er  put  for  it, 
A  high  and  noble  one,  worthy  much  honor  ; 
And  had  it  fail'd,  we  had  not  fail'd  great  Sir, 
And  in  short  time  too,  to  have  forc'd  the  Governor, 
In  spight  of  all  his  threats. 

Kin.     I  thank  ye  Gentleman. 

Ru.     And  all  his  subtilties  to  set  you  free, 
With  all  his  heart  and  will  too. 

Kin.     I  know  ye  love  me. 

Py.     This  had  been  good  with  something  done  before  it, 

121 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS      ACT  n 

Something  set  off  to    bcautifie   it,   now   it   sounds  empty,   like 
A  Barbers  b;i>on,  pox   there's  no  metall  in't,  no  noble  marrow. 

Ba.      I   have  an   Army   Sir,   but   that   the   Governor, 
The   foolish    fellow   was   a   little   provident, 
And    wise   in    letting   slip    no   time,   became   him   too, 
That   would   have  scour'd   him   else,  and  all   his  confines  ; 
That   would   have   rung  him  such   a  peal — 

Py.      Yes   backward, 

To  make  dogs  houl,  I   know  thee  to  a  farthing, 
Thy  Army's  good   for   Hawks,  there's 
Nothing  but  sheeps  hearts  in   it. 

S\.      I   have   done  nothing  Sir,   therefore 
I   think  it  convenient   I  say   little  what  I   purposed, 
And   what  my  love   intended. 

Kin.      I   like  your  modesty, 

And   thank  ye  royal  friends,  I  know  it  griev'd  ye 
To  know  my  misery  ;    but   this  man,   Prince[s], 
I   must  thank  heartily,   indeed,  and  treuly, 
For  this  Man  saw  me  in't,  and  redeemed  me  : 
He  lookt  upon   me  sinking,  and  then  caught  me. 
This  Sister  this,  this  all   Man,  this  all  valor, 
This  pious  Man. 

Ru.     My  countenance,   it  shames  me, 
One  scarce  arriv'd,   not  harden'd  yet,   not 
Read  in  dangers  and  great  deeds,  sea-sick,  not  season'd — 
Oh  I   have   boy'd   my  self. 

Kin.      This  noble   bulwark, 

This  launce  and  honor  of  our  age  and  Kingdome  ; 
This  that  I  never  can   reward,  nor  hope 
To  be  once  worthy  of  the  name  of  friend  to, 
This,  this  Man  from  the  bowels  of  my  sorrows 
Has  new  begot  my  name,  and  once  more  made  me  : 
Oh  sister,   if  there  may   be  thanks  for  this, 
Or  any   thing  near  recompence   invented. 

Ar.      You  are  too  noble  Sir,  there  is  reward 
Above  my  aftion   too   by  millions  : 
A  recompence  so   rich  and  glorious, 
I  durst  not  dreame  it   mine,   but  that  'twas  promised  ; 
But  that   it  was  propounded,  sworn  and  sealed 
Before  the  face  of  Heaven,  I  durst  not  hope   it, 

122 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

For  nothing  in  the  life  of  man,  or  merit, 
It  is  so  truly  great,  can  else  embrace  it. 

Kin.      O  speak  it,  speak  it,   bless  mine  ears  to  hear  it, 
Make  me  a  happy  man,  to  know  it  may  be, 
For  still  methinks  I  am  a  prisoner, 
And  feel  no  liberty  before  I   find  it. 

Ar.     Then  know  it  is  your  sister,  she  is  mine  Sir, 
I  claime  her  by  her  own  word,  and  her  honor  ; 
It  was  her  open  promise  to  that  Man 
That  durst  redeeme  ye  ;    Beauty  set  me  on, 
And  fortune  crowns  me  fair,  if  she  receive  me. 

Kin.  Receive  ye,  Sir — why  Sister — ha — so  backward, 
Stand  as  you  knew  me  not  ?  nor  what  he  has  ventured  ? 
My  dearest  Sister. 

Ar.     Good  Sir  pardon  me, 
There  is  a  blushing  modesty  becomes  her, 
That  holds  her  back  ;    Women  are  nice  to  wooe  Sir  ; 
I  would  not  have  her   forc'd  ;    give  her  fair  liberty  ; 
For  things  compell'd  and  frighted,  of  soft  natures, 
Turn  into  fears,  and  flie  from  their  own  wishes. 

Kin.     Look  on   him  my   Quisara,  such  another, 
Oh  all  ye  powers,  so  excellent  in  nature  ! 
In  honor  so  abundant ! — 

Quisar.     I  confess  Sir, 

Confess  my  word  is  past  too,  he  has  purchased  ; 
Yet  good  Sir  give  me  leave  to  think  ;    but  time 
To  be  acquainted  with   his  worth  and   person  ; 
To  make  me  fit  to  know  it  ;    we  are  both  strangers, 
And  how  we  should  believe  so  suddenly, 
Or  come  to  fasten  our  affeclions — 
Alas,  love  has  his  complements. 

Kin.     Be  sudden 

And  certain  in  your  way,  no  woman[s]   doubles, 
Nor  coy  delayes,  you  are  his,  and  so  assure  it, 
Or  cast  from  me  and  my  remembrance  ever  ; 
Respecl  your  word,  I  know  you  will,  come  Sister, 
Lets  see  what  welcome  you  can  give  a  prisoner, 
And  what  fair  looks  a  friend — Oh  my  most  noble 
Princes,  no  discontents,   but  all  be  lusty, 
He  that  frowns  this  day  is  an  open  enemy  : 

123 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS     ACT  in 

Thus   in   my   armes  my   dear. 

Ar.      You   make   me   blush   Sir. 

Kin.      And   now   lead   on- 
Our   whole  Court   crown'd   with   pleasure. 

Ru.      Madam,   despair   not,   something  shall   he  done  yet, 
And   suddenly,  and   wisely. 

Quisar.      O   Ruy  Dias.  [Ex. 

Py.    Well,  he's  a  brave  fellow,  and  he  has  deserv'd  her  richly  ; 
And  you   have  had   your  hands  full  I  dare  swear  Gentlemen. 

Soz.      We  have  done  something,   Sir,   if  it   hit   right. 

Ch.     The  woman   has  no  eyes  else,   nor  no  honesty, 
So  much   I  think. 

Py.     Come,  let's  goe  bounce  amongst  'em, 
To  the   Kings  health,  and  my  brave  Country-mans. 
My  Unckle  looks  as  though  he  were  sick  oth' 
Worms  friends.  [Exeunt. 


M 


Aftus   Tertius.     Selena  Prima. 

Enter  Pyniero. 

Ine  Unckle  haunts  me  up  and  down,  looks  melancholy, 

Wondrous  proof  melancholy,  sometimes  swears 
Then  whistles,  starts,  cries,  and  groans,  as  if  he  had  the  Bots, 
As  to  say  truth,   I  think  h'as  little  better, 
A[n]d  wo'd   fain  speak  ;   bids  me  good   morrow  at  midnight, 
And  good  night   when   'tis  noon,   has  something  hovers 
About  his  brains,  that  would  fain  find  an   issue, 
But  cannot  out,  or  dares  not  :    still   he   follows. 

Enter  Ruy   Dyas. 

How  he  looks  still,  and  how  he  beats  about, 
Like  an  old  dog  at  a  dead  scent  !      I   marry, 
There  was  a  sigh  wou'd  a  set  a  ship  a  sailing  : 
These  winds  of  love  and  honor,   blow  at  all  ends. 
Now  speak  and't   be  thy  Will  :    good  morrow  Uncle. 

Ru.     Good   morrow  Sir. 

Py.     This  is  a  new  salute  : 
Sure  h'as  forgot  me  :    this  is  pur-blind   Cupid. 

Ru.     My  Nephew  ? 

Py.     Yes  Sir,   if  I   be  not  chang'd. 

124 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

Ru.     I  wou'd  fain  speak  with  you. 

Py.      I   wou'd  fain  have  ye,  Sir, 
For  to  that  end  I  stay. 

Ru.     You  know  I  love  ye, 
And  I  have  lov'd  ye  long,  my  dear  Pyntero, 
Bred  and  supply'd  you. 

Py.     Whither  walks  this  Preamble  ? 

Ru.     You  may  remember,  though  I  am  but  your  Uncle, 
I  sure  had  a  father's  care,  a  father's  tenderness. 

Py.    Sure  he  would  wrap  me  into  something  now  suddenly, 
He  doubts  my  nature  in,  for  mine  is  honest, 
He  winds  about  me  so. 

Ru.     A  fathers  diligence. 
My  private  benefits  I   have  forgot,  Sir, 
But  those  you  might  lay  claim  to  as  my  follower  ; 
Yet  some  men  wou'd  remember — 

Py.     I  do  daily.  (one, 

Ru.     The  place  which  I  have  put  ye  in,  which  is  no  weak 
Next  to  my  self  you  stand  in  all  employments, 
Your  counsels,   cares,  assignments  with   me  equal, 
So  is  my  study  still  to  plant  your  person  ; 
These  are  small  testimonies  I  have  not  forgot  ye, 
Nor  wou'd  not  be  forgotten. 

Pyn.     Sure  you  cannot. 

Ru.      Oh   Pymero — 

Pyn.     Sir,  what  hangs  upon  you, 
What  heavy  weight  oppresses  ye,  ye  have  lost, 
(I  must  confess,  in   those  that  understand  ye) 
Some  little  of  your  credit,  but  time  will  cure  that ; 
The  best  may  slip  sometimes. 

Ru.     Oh  my  best  Nephew — 

Pyn.     It  may  be  ye  fear  her  too,  that     isturbs  ye, 
That  she  may  fall  her  self,  or  be  forc'd  from  ye. 

Ru.     She  is  ever  true,  but  I   undone  for  ever. 
Oh   that  Armusia,  that  new  thing,  that  stranger, 
That  flag  stuck  up  to  rob  me  of  mine  honor ; 
That  murd'ring  chain  shot  at  me  from  my  Countrey  : 
That  goodly   plague  that  I  must  court  to  kill  me. 

Pyn.     Now  it  comes  flowing  from  him,  I  fear'd  this, 
Knew,  he  that  durst  be  idle,  durst  be  ill  too, 

125 


THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS     ACT  in 

Has  he  not  done  a  brave  thing  ? 

Ru.      I   must  confess  it   Nephew,   must  allow   it, 
But   that   brave  thing  has  undone   me,   has  sunk   me, 
Has  trod   me   like  a   name  in   sand,   to  nothing, 
Hangs   betwixt   hope  and   me,  and   threatens  my   ruin  ; 
And   if  he   rise  and   blaze,   farewel   my   fortune  ; 
And  when   that's  set,  where's  thy  advancement,   Cosin  ? 
That  were  a  friend,  that  were  a  noble  kinsman, 
That  would  consider  these  ;    that  man  were  grateful  ; 
And   he  that  durst  do  something  here,  durst  love  me. 

Pyn.      You  say  true,   'tis  worth   consideration, 
Your  reasons  are  of  weight,  and  mark  me   Uncle, 
For  I'll   be  sudden,  and  to  th'  purpose  with  you. 
Say   this  Armusia,  then   were  taken  off, 
As  it  may  be  easily  done, 
How  stands  the  woman  ? 

Ru.     She  is  mine  for  ever  ; 
For  she  contemns  his  deed  and  him. 

Pyn.     Pox  on  him.  * 

Or  if  the  single  pox  be  not  sufficient, 
The  hogs,  the  dogs,  the  devils  pox  possess  him  : 
'Faith  this  Armusia  stumbles  me,  'tis  a  brave  fellow  ; 
And   if  he  could  be  spared  Uncle — 

Ru.     I  must  perish  : 
Had  he  set  up  at  any  rest  but  this, 
Done  any  thing  but  what  concern'd  my  credit, 
The  everlasting  losing  of  my  worth — 

Pyn.     I  understand  you  now,  who  set  you  on  too. 
I  had  a  reasonable  good  opinion  of  the  devil 
Till  this  hour  ;    and  I  see  he  is  a  knave  indeed, 
An  arrant,  stinking  knave,  for  now  I  smell  him  ; 
I'll  see  what  may  be  done  then,  you  shall  know 
You  have  a  kinsman,  but  no  villain  Uncle, 
Nor  no  betrayer  of  fair  fame,  I  scorn  it  ; 
I  love  and  honor  virtue  ;    I  must  have 
Access  unto  the  Lady  to  know  her  mind  too, 
A  good  word  from  her  mouth  you  know  may  stir  me  ; 
A  Ladies  look  at  setting  on — 

Ru.     You  say  well, 
Here  Cosin,   here's  a  Letter  ready  for  you, 

126 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

And  you  shall  see  how  nobly  she'll  receive  you, 
And  with  what  [c]are  direct. 

Pyn.     Farewel  then  Uncle, 

After  I  have  talk'd  with  her,  I  am  your  servant, 
To  make  you  honest  if  I  can — else  hate  you. 
Pray  ye  no  more  compliments,  my  head  is  busie,  heaven  bless 
What  a  malicious  soul  does  this  man  carry  !  (me  ; 

And  to  what  scurvy  things  this  love  converts  us  ! 
What  stinking  things,  and  how  sweetly  they  become  us  ! 
Murther's  a  moral  virtue  with  these  Lovers, 
A  special  piece  of  Divinity,  I  take  it  : 
I  may  be  mad,  or  violently  drunk. 

Which  is  a  whelp  of  that  litter ;    or  I  may  be  covetous, 
And  learn  to  murther  mens  estates,  that's  base  too  j 
Or  proud,  but  that's  a  Paradise  to  this  ; 
Or  envious,  and  sit  eating  of  my  self 
At  others  fortunes  ;    I  may  lye,  and  damnably, 
Beyond  the  patience  of  an  honest  hearer  ; 
Cosin,  Cutpurses,  sit  i'th'  Stocks  for  apples. 
But  when  I  am  a  Lover,  Lord  have  mercy, 
These  are  poor  pelting  sins,  or  rather  plagues, 
Love  and  Ambition  draw  the  devils  Coach. 

Enter  Quisana,  and  Panura. 

How  now  !    who  are  these  ?     Oh  my  great  Ladies  followers, 
Her  Riddle-founders,  and  her  Fortune-tellers. 
Her  readers  of  her  Love-Le6tures,  her  Inflamers  : 
These  doors  I  must  pass  through,  I  hope  they  are  wide. 
Good  day  to  your  beauties,  how  they  take  it  to  'em  ! 
As  if  they  were  fair  indeed. 

Quisan.     Good  morrow  to  you,  Sir. 

Pyn.    That's  the  old  Hen,  the  brood-bird  !  how  she  busies ! 
How  like  an  Inventory  of  Lechery  she  looks  ! 
Many  a  good  piece  of  iniquity 

Has  past  her  hands,  I  warrant  her— I  beseech  you, 
Is  the  fair  Princess  stirring  ? 

Pan.     Yes  marry  is  she,  Sir. 
But  somewhat  private  :    you  have  a  business  with  her  ? 

Py.     Yes  forsooth  have  I,  and  a  serious  business. 

Pan.     May  not  we  know  ? 

127 


TlIK  ISLAND   PRINCESS     ACT  in 

P\.      Yes,   when   you   can   keep   counsel. 

Ptin.      How   prettily   he  looks  !    lie's  a  soldier  sure, 
His  rudeness  sits  so  handsomly   upon   him. 

Quisan.     A   good   blunt   Gentleman. 

P\.      Yes   marry   am    I  : 
Yet   for  a  push   or  two  at  sharp,  and't  please  you — 

Pan.     My  honest  friend,  you  know  not  who  you  speak  to: 
This   is  the   Princesses   Aunt, 

Py.      I   like   her   the   better 

And  she  were  her  Mother  (Lady)  or  her  Grandmother, 
I  am   not  so   bashful,   but  I  can   buckle  with   her. 

Pan.     Of  what  size  is  your  business  ? 

Py[n].      Of  the  long  sixteens, 
And  will   make  way  I  warrant  ye. 

Pan.      How  fine   he  talks  ! 

Pyn.      Nay   in   troth  I  talk  but  coursely,   Lady, 
But  I  hold   it  comfortable  for  the  understanding  : 
How   fain  they  wou'd  draw   me  into  ribaldry  ! 
These  wenches  that  live  easily,  live  high, 
[And  l]ove  these  broad  discourses,  as  they  love  possets  ; 
These  dry  delights  serve  for  preparatives. 

Pan.      Why   do  you  look  so  on  me  ? 

Pyn.      I  am  guessing  (should  be, 

By  the  cast    of  your  face,  what  the  property  of  your   place, 
For  I  presume  you  turn  a  key,  sweet  beauty, 
And  you  another,  gravity,  under  the  Princess, 

And  by  my  I   warrant  ye  good  places, 

Comly  commodious  Seats. 

Quisan.      Prethee  let  him  talk  still. 
For  me  thinks  he  talks  handsomely. 

Py.     And  truly 

As  near  as  my  understanding  shall  enable  me 
You  look  as  if  you  kept  my  Ladies  secrets  : 
Nay,  do  not  laugh,  for  I   mean   honestly,  (end  ! 

How  these  young  things  tattle,  when  they  get  a  toy  by  th' 
And   how  their  hearts  go  pit-a-pat,  and  look  for  it  ! 
Wou'd  it  not  dance  too,   if  it  had  a  Fiddle  ? 
Your  gravity  I   guess,  to  take  the  Petitions, 
And   hear  the  lingring  suits  in   love  disposed, 
Their  sighs  and  sorrows  in  their  proper  place, 
128 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

You  keep  the  Ay-me  Office. 

Quisan.     Prethee  suffer  him, 
For  as  I  live  he's  a  pretty  fellow  ; 
I  love  to  hear  sometimes  what  men  think  of  us : 
And  thus  deliver'd  freely,  'tis  no  malice  : 
Proceed  good  honest  man. 

Pin.     I  will,  good  Madam. 
According  to  mens  states  and  dignities, 
Moneys  and  moveables,  you  rate  their  dreams, 
And  cast  the  Nativity  of  their  desires, 
If  he  reward  well,  all  he  thinks  is  prosperous  : 
And  if  he  promise  place,  his  dreams  are  Oracles  ; 
Your  antient  praclique  Art  too  in  these  discoveries, 
Who  loves  at  such  a  length,  who  a  span  farther, 
And  who  draws  home,  yield  you  no  little  profit, 
For  these  ye  milk  by  circumstance.  • 

Qui.     Ye  are  cunning. 

Pin.     And  as  they  oil  ye,  and  advance  your  Spindle, 
So  you  draw  out  the  lines  of  love,  your  doors  too, 
The  doors  of  destiny,  that  men  must  pass  through  ; 
These  are  fair  places. 

Pan.     He  knows  all. 

Pin.     Your  trap-doors, 

To  pop  fools  in  it,  that  have  no  providence, 
Your  little  wickets,  to  work  wise  men,  like  wires,  through  at, 
And  draw  their  states  and   bodies  into  Cobwebs, 
Your  Postern  doors,  to  catch  those  that  are  cautelous, 
And  would  not  have  the  worlds  eye  find  their  knaveries : 
Your  doors  of  danger,  some  men  hate  a  pleasure, 
Unless  that  may  be  full  of  fears  ;    your  hope  doors, 
And  those  are  fine  commodities,  where  fools  pay 
For  every  new  enco[u]ragement,  a  new  custom ; 
You  have  your  doors  of  honor,  and  of  pleasure ; 
But  those  are  for  great  Princes,  glorious  vanities, 
That  travel  to  be  famous  through   diseases  ; 
There  be  the  doors  of  poverty  and  death  too : 
But  these  you  do  the  best  you  can  to  damm  up, 
For  then  your  gain  goes  out. 

Qui.     This  is  a  rare  Leclure. 

Pin.     Read  to  them  that  understand. 

B.-F.  vin.  I  129 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS    ACT  in 

Pan.      Beshrew  me, 
I  dare  not  venture  on  ye,  ye  cut  too  keen,  Sir. 

Enter  Quisara. 

Quisan.     We  thank  you  Sir  for  your  good  mirth, 
You  are  a  good  companion. 
Here  comes  the  Princess  now,  attend  your  business. 

Quisar.     Is  there  no  remedy,  no  hopes  can  help  me  ? 
No  wit  to  set  me  free  ?    whose  there  hoe  ? 

Quisan.     Troubled  ?    her  looks  are  almost  wild  : 
What  ails  the  Princess  ? 
I  know  nothing  she  wants. 

Quisar.     Who's  that  there  with  you  ? 
Oh  Signior  Pyniero  ?    you  are  most  welcome  : 
How  does  your  noble  Uncle  ? 

Pin.     Sad  as  you  are  Madam  : 
But  he  commends   his  service,  and  this  Letter. 

Quisar.     Go  off,  attend  within — Fair  Sir,  I  thank  ye, 
Pray  be  no  stranger,  for  indeed  you  are  welcome  ; 
For  your  own  virtues  welcome. 

Quisan.     We  are  mistaken, 
This  is  some  brave  fellow  sure. 

Pan.     I'm  sure  he's  a  bold  fellow  : 
But  if  she  hold  him  so,  we   must  believe  it.  [Exit. 

Quisar.     Do  you  know  of  this,  fair  Sir  ? 

P[t\n.     I  ghess  it  Madam, 
And  whether  it  intends  :    I  had  not  brought  it  else. 

Quis.     It  is  a  business  of  no  common  reckoning. 

Pin.     The  handsomer  for  him  that  goes  about  it ; 
Slight  actions  are  rewarded  with  slight  thanks : 
Give  me  a  matter  of  some  weight  to  wade  in. 

Quisar.     And  can  you  love  your  Uncle  so  directly, 
So  seriously,  and  so  full,  to  undertake  this  ? 
Can  there  be  such  a  faith  ? 

Pin.     Dare  you  say  I  to  it, 
And  set  me  on  ?    'tis  no  matter  for  my  Uncle, 
Or  what  I  owe  to  him,  dare  you  but  wish  it. 

Quisar.     I  wou'd  fain — 

Pyn.      Have  it  done  ;    say  but  so  Lady. 

Quisan.      Conceive  it  so. 

130 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

Pyn.     I  will,  'tis  that  I  am  bound  to  : 
Your  Will  that  must  command  me,  and  your  Pleasure, 
The  fair  aspects  of  those  eyes  that  must  direcl  me  : 
I  am  no  Uncles  Agent,  I  am  mine  own,  Lady  ; 
I  scorn  my  able  youth  should  plough  for  others, 
Or  my  ambition  serve  for  pay  ;    I  aim, 
Although  I  never  hit,  as  high  as  any  man, 
And  the  reward  I  reach  at,  shall  be  equal, 
And  what  love  spurs  me  on  to,  this  desire, 
Makes  me  forget  an  honest  man,  a  brave  man, 
A  valiant,  and  a  virtuous  man,  my  countrey-man,  Armusia, 
The  delight  of  all  the  Minions^  (your  excellence  ; 

This  love  of  you,  doting  upon  your  beauty,  the  admiration  of 
Make  me  but  servant  to  the  poorest  smile, 
Or  the  least  grace  you  have  bestow'd   on  others, 
And  see  how  suddenly  I'll  work  your  safety, 
And  set  your  thoughts  at  peace  ;    I  am  no  flatterer, 
To  promise  infinitely,  and  out-dream  dangers  ; 
To  lye  a  bed,  and  swear  men  into  Feavers, 
Like  some  of  your  trim  suiters ;    when  I  promise, 
The  light  is  not  more  constant  to  the  world, 
Than  I  am  to  my  word — She  turns  for  millions. 

Quisar.     I  have  not  seen  a  braver  confirm'd  courage. 

Pyn.     For  a  Tun  of  Crowns  she  turns  :   she  is  a  woman, 
And  much  I  fear,  a  worse  than  I  expelled. 
You  are  the  objeft,  Lady,  you  are  the  eye 
In  which  all  excellence  appears,  all  wonder, 
From  which  all  hearts  take  fire,  all  hands  their  valour  : 
And  when  he  stands  disputing,  when  you  bid  him, 
Or  but  thinks  of  his  Estate,  Father,  Mother, 
Friends,  Wife,  and  Children, 
H'is  a  fool,  and  I  scorn  him, 

And  't  be  but  to  make  clean  his  sword,  a  coward  ; 
Men  have  forgot  their  fealty  to  beauty. 
Had  I  the  place  in  your  affeclions, 
My  most  unworthy  Uncle  is  fit  to  fall  from, 
Liv'd  in  those  blessed  eyes,  and  read  the  stories 
Of  everlasting  pleasures  figur'd  there, 

I  wou'd  find  out  your  commands  before  you  thought  'em, 
And  bring  'em  to  you  done,  e'r  you  dream't  of  'em. 

12  131 


THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS     ACT  in 

Quis.     I   admire  his  boldness. 

Pyn.     This,  or  any  thing  ; 
Your  brothers  death,  mine   Uncles,  any   mans, 
No  state  that  stands  secure,   if  you   frown   on   it. 
Look  on   my  youth,  I   bring  no  blastings  to  you, 
The   first  flower  of  my  strength,   my  faith. 

Quis.      No  more  Sir  ; 

I  am  too  willing  to  believe,  rest  satisfied  ; 
If  you  dare  do  for  me,  I  shall  be  thankful  : 
You  are  a  handsome  Gentleman,  a  fair  one, 
My  servant  if  you  please  ;    I  seal  it  thus,  Sir. 
No  more,  till  you  deserve  more.  [Exit. 

Pyn.     I  am  rewarded  : 

This  woman's  cunning,  but  she's  bloody  too  ; 
Although  she  pulls  her  Tallons  in,  she's  mischievous  ; 
Form'd  like  the  face  of  Heaven,  clear  and  transparent  ; 
I   must  pretend  still,  bear  'em   both  in  hopes, 
For  fear  some  bloudy  slave  thrust  in  indeed, 
Fashion'd  and  flesh'd,  to  what  they  wish  :    well  Uncle, 
What  will  become  of  this,  and  what  dishonor 
Follow  this  fatal  shaft,  if  shot,  let  time  tell, 
I  can  but  only  fear,  and  strive  to  cross  it.  [Exit. 

Enter  Armusia,  Emanuel,  and  Soza. 

Em.     Why  are  you  thus  sad  ?  what  can  grieve  or  vex  you 
That  have  the  pleasures  of  the  world,  the  profits, 
The  honor,  and  the  loves  at  your  disposes  ? 
Why  should  a  man  that  wants  nothing,  want  his  quiet  ? 

Ar.     I  want  what  beggars  are  above  me  in,  content  ; 
I   want  the  grace  I  have  merited, 
The  favor,  the  due  respect. 

Soz.     Does  not  the  King  allow  it  ? 

Ar.     Yes,  and  all  honors  else,  all  I  can  ask, 
That  he  has  power  to  give  ;    but  from  his  Sister, 
The  scornful  cruelty,  forgive  me  beauty, 
That  I  transgress  from  her  that  should  look  on  me, 
That  should  a  little  smile  upon  my  service, 
And  foster  my  deserts  for  her  own   faiths  sake  ; 
That  should  at  least  acknowledge  me,  speak  to  me. 

Soz.     And  you  goe  whining  up  and  down  for   this,  Sir  ? 

132 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

Lamenting  and  disputing  of  your  grievances  ? 
Sighing  and  sobbing  like  a  sullen  School-boy, 
And  cursing  good-wife  fortune  for  this  favour  ? 

Ar.     What  would  you  have  me  doe  ? 

Soz.     Doe  what  you  should  do, 
What  a  man  would  doe  in  this  case,  a  wise  man, 
An  understanding  man  that  knows  a  woman  ; 
Knows  her  and  all  her  tricks,  her  scorns,  and  all  her  trifles : 
Goe  to  her,  and  take  her  in  your  arms,  and  shake  her, 
Take  her  and  toss  her  like  a  barr. 

Em.     But  be  sure  you  pitch  her  upon  a  Feather-bed, 
Shake  her  between  a  pair  of  Sheets,  Sir, 

There  shake  these  sullen  fits  out  of  her,  spare  her  not  there; 
There  you  may  break  her  Will,  and  bruise  no  bone,  Sir. 

Soz.     Goe  to  her. 

Em.     That's  the  way. 

Soz.     And  tell  her,  and  boldly, 

And  do  not  mince  the   matter,  nor  mock  your  self, 
With   being  too  indulgent  to  her  pride  : 
Let  her  hear  roundly  from  ye,  what  ye  are, 
And  what  ye  have  deserved,  and  what  she  must  be. 

Em.     And  be  not  put  off  like  a  common  fellow, 
With  the  Princess  would  be  private, 
Or  that  she  has  taken  physick,  and  admits  none  ; 
I  would  talk  to  her  any  where. 

Ar.     It  makes  me  smile. 

Em.     Now  you  look  handsomly  : 
Had  I  a  wench  to  win,  I  would  so  flutter  her  : 
They  love  a  man  that  crushes  'em  to  verjuce  ; 
A  woman  held  at  hard  meat,  is  your  Spaniel. 

Soz.     Pray  take  our  council,  Sir. 

Ar.     I  shall  do  something, 
But  not  your  way,  it  shews  too  boisterous, 
For  my  affections  are  as  fair  and  gentle, 
As  her  they  serve. 

Enter  King. 

Soz.     The  King. 
King.     Why  how  now  friend  ? 
Why  do  you  rob  me  of  the  company 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS     ACT  in 

I  love  so  dearly,   Sir,  I   have  been  seeking  you  ; 

For  when  I  want  you,   I   want  all   my  pleasure  : 

Why  sad  ?    thus  sad  still   man  ?    I   will   not   have   it  ; 

I  must  not  see  the  face  I  love  thus  shadowed.  (him  : 

Em.     And't    please    your   Grace,   methinks    it   ill    becomes 
A  soldier  should   be  jovial,   high   and   lusty. 

King.      He  shall   be  so,  come,  come,  I  know  your  reason, 
It  shall   be  none  to  cross  you,  ye  shall  have  her, 
Take  my  word,  ('tis  a   Kings  word)  ye  shall  have  her, 
She  shall  be  yours  or  nothing,  pray  be  merry. 

Arm.     Your  Grace   has  given  me  cause,  I  shall  be  Sir, 
And  ever  your  poor  servant. 

King.      Me  my  self,  Sir, 

My  better  self,  I  shall  find  time,  and  suddainly, 
To  gratifie  your  loves  too,   Gentlemen, 
And  make  you  know  how  much  I  stand  bound  to  you  : 
Nay,  'tis  not  worth  your  thanks,  no  further  complement  ; 
Will  you  go  with  me  friend  ? 

Arm.     I  beseech  your  Grace, 
Spare  me  an  hour  or  two,  I  shall  wait  on  you, 
Some  little  private  business  with  my  self,  Sir, 
For  such  a  time. 

King.     I'll  hinder  no  devotion, 

For  I  know  you  are  regular,  I'll  take  you  Gentlemen, 
Because  he  shall  have  nothing  to  disturb  him, 
I  shall  look  for  your  friend.  [Exeunt,  manet  Armusia. 

Enter  Panura. 

Arm.     I  dare  not  fail,  Sir : 

What  shall  I  do  to  make  her  know  my  misery, 
To  make  her  sensible  ?     This  is  her  woman, 
I  have  a  toy  come  to  me  suddenly, 
It  may  work  for  the  best,  she  can  but  scorn  me, 
And  lower  than  I  am,  I  cannot  tumble, 
I'll  try,  what  e'er  my  fate  be — Good  even  fair  one. 

Pan.     'Tis  the  brave  stranger — A  good  night  to  you,  Sir. 
Now  by  my  Ladies  hand,  a  goodly  Gentleman  ! 
How  happy  shall  she  be  in  such  a  Husband  ! 
Wou'd  I  were  so  provided  too. 

Arm.     Good  pretty  one, 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

Shall  I  keep  you  company  for  an  hour  or  two  ? 
I  want  employment  for  this  evening. 
I  am  an  honest  man. 

Pan.     I  dare  believe  ye : 

Or  if  ye  were  not,  Sir,  that's  no  great  matter, 
We  take  mens  promises,  wou'd  ye  stay  with  me,  Sir  ? 

Arm.     So  it  please  you,  pray  let's  be  better  acquainted, 
I  know  you  are  the  Princesses  Gentlewoman, 
And  wait  upon  her  near. 

Pan.     'Tis  like  I  do  so. 

Arm.     And  may  befriend  a  man,  do  him  fair  courtesies, 
If  he  have  business  your  way. 

Pan.     I  understand  ye. 

Arm.     So  kind  an  office,  that  you  may  bind  a  gentleman, 
Hereafter  to  be  yours  ;    and  your  way  too, 
And  ye  may  bless  the  hour  you  did  this  benefit : 
Sweet  handsome  faces  should  have  courteous  minds, 
And  ready  faculties. 

Pan.     Tell  me  your  business, 
Yet  if  I  think  it  be  to  her,  your  self,  Sir, 
For  I  know  what  you  are,  and  what  we  hold  ye, 
And  in  what  grace  ye  stand,  without  a  second, 
For  that  but  darkens,  you  wou'd  do  it  better, 
The  Princess  must  be  pleas'd  with  your  accesses  ; 
I'm  sure  I  should. 

Arm.     I  want  a  Courtiers  boldness, 
And  am  yet  but  a  stranger,  I  wou'd  fain  speak  with  her  : 

Pan.     'Tis  very  late,  and  upon  her  hour  of  sleep,  Sir. 

Ar.     Pray  ye  wear  this,  and  believe  my  meaning  civil, 
My  business  of  that  fair  respecl  and  carriage  : 
This  for  our  more  acquaintance.  [Jewe/. 

Pan.     How  close  he  kisses  ! 
And  how  sensible  the  passings  of  his  lips  are  ! 
I  must  do  it,  and  I  were  to  be  hang'd  now,  and  I  will  do  it : 
He  may  do  as  much  for  me,  that's  all  I  aim  at  ; 
And  come  what  will  on't,  life  or  death,  I'll  do  it, 
For  ten  such  kisses  more,  and  'twere  high  treason. 

Arm.     I  wou'd  be  private  with  her. 

Pan.     So  you  shall, 
'Tis  not  worth  thanks  else,  you  must  dispatch  quick. 

'35 


THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS     ACT  in 

Arm.      Suddenly. 

Pan.     And   I   must  leave  you   in   my  chamber,  Sir  ; 
Where  you   must   lock  your  self  that   none  may  see  you  ; 
'Tis  close  to  her,  you  cannot   miss  the  entrance, 
When   she  comes  down   to  bed. 

Arm.      I   understand  ye,  and  once  more  thank   ye    Lady. 

Pan.     Thank  me   but  thus. 

Arm.     If  I   fail   thee — 
Come  close  then.  [Ex. 

Enter  Quisara,  and  Quisana. 

Quisar.     'Tis  late  good  Aunt,  to  bed,  I  am  ev'n  unready, 
My  woman   will  not   be  long  away. 

Quisan.     I  wou'd   have  you  a  little  merrier  first, 
Let  me  sit  by  ye,  and  read  or  discourse 
Something  that  ye  fancy,  or  take  my  instrument. 

Quisar.     No,   no  I  thank  you, 

I  shall  sleep  without  these,  I   wrong  your  age  Aunt 
To  make  ye  wait  thus,  pray  let  me  intreat  ye, 
To  morrow  I'll  see  ye,  I   know  y'are  sleepy, 
And  rest  will   be  a  welcome  guest,  you  shall  not, 
Indeed  you  shall  not  stay  ;    oh  here's  my  woman, 

Enter  Panura. 

Good  night,  good  night,  and  good  rest  Aunt  attend  you. 

Quisan.    Sleep  dwell  upon  your  eyes,  and  fair  dreams  court  ye. 

Quisar.    Come,  where  have  you  been  wench  ?  make  me  un- 
I  slept  but  ill  last  night.  (ready; 

Pan.     You'll  sleep  the  better 
I  hope   [too]   night,  Madam. 

Quisar.     A  little  rest  contents  me  ; 
Thou  lovest  thy  bed  Panura. 

Pan.     I  am  not  in  love  Lady, 
Nor  seldom  dream  of  devils,  I  sleep  soundly. 

Quisar.     I'll  swear  thou  dost,  thy  Husband  wou'd  not  take 
If  thou  wert  married  wench.  (it  so  well 

Pan.     Let  him  take,   Madam, 
The  way  to  waken  me,  I  am  no  Dormouse, 
Husbands  have  larum  bels,  if  they  but 
Ring  once. 

136 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

Quisar.     Thou  art  a  merry  wench. 

Pan.     I  shall  live  the  longer. 

Quisar.     Prethee  fetch  my  Book. 

Pan.     I  am  glad  of  that. 

Quisar.     I'll  read  awhile  before  I  sleep. 

Pan.     I  will  Madam. 

Quisar.     And  if  Ruy  Dias  meet  you,  and  be  importunate, 
He  may  come  in. 

Pan.     I  have  a  better  fare  for  you, 
Now  least  in  sight  play  I.  [Exit. 

Enter  Armusia,  locks  the  door. 

Quisar.     Why  should  I   love  him  ? 
Why  should  I  doat  upon  a  man  deserves  not, 
Nor  has  no  will  to  work  it  ?    who's  there  wench  ? 
What  are  you  ?    or  whence  come  you  ? 

Arm.     Ye  may  know  me, 
I  bring  not  such  amazement,  noble  Lady. 

Quisar.     Who  let  you  in  ? 

Arm.     My  restless  love  that  serves  ye. 

Quisar.     This  is  an  impudence  I  have  not  heard  of, 
A  rudeness  that  becomes  a  thief  or  ruffian  ; 
Nor  shall  my  brothers  love  protedt  this  boldness, 
You  build  so  strongly  on,  my  rooms  are  sanctuaries, 
And  with  that  reverence,  they  that  seek  my  favours, 
And  humble  fears,  shall  render  their  approaches. 

Arm.     Mine  are  no  less. 

Quisar.     I  am  Mistriss  of  my  self,  Sir, 
And  will  be  so,  I  will  not  be  thus  visited  : 
These  fears  and  dangers  thrust  into  my  privacy. 
Stand  further  off,  I'll  cry  out  else. 

Arm.     Oh  dear  Lady  ! 

Quisar.     I  see  dishonor  in  your  eyes. 

Arm.     There  is  none  : 
By  all  that  beauty  they  are  innocent  ; 
Pray  ye  tremble  not,  you  have  no  cause. 

Quisar.     I'll  dye  first ; 

Before  you  have  your  Will,  be  torn  in  pieces  ; 
The  little  strength  I  have  left  me  to  resist  you, 
The  gods  will  give  me  more,  before  I  am  forc'd 

'37 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS     ACT  in 

To  that  I   hate,  or  suffer — 

Arm.      You  wrong  my  duty. 

Quisar.      So  base  a  violation   of  my   liberty  ? 
I   know  you  are   bent  unnobly  ;    I'll   take   to  me 
The  spirit  of  a   man  ;    borrow   his   boldness, 
And   force   my   womans  fears  into  a  madness, 
And  e'er  you  arrive  at  what  you  aim  at- 

Arm.      Lady, 

If  there  be  in  you  any  womans  pity; 
And  if  your  fears  have  not  proclaim'd  me  monstrous  ; 
Look  on   me,  and  believe  me  ;    is  this  violence  ? 
Is  it  to  fall  thus  prostrate  to  your  beauty 
A  ruffians  boldness  ?    is  humility  a  rudeness  ? 
The  griefs  and  sorrows  that  grow  here  an   impudence  ? 
These  forcings,  and  these  fears  I   bring  along  with  me  ; 
These  impudent  abuses  offered  ye  ; 
And  thus  high   has  your  brothers  favour  blown  me  : 
Alas  dear  Lady  of  my  life,  I  came  not 
With  any  purpose,  rough  or  desperate, 
With  any  thought  that  was  not  smooth  and  gentle, 
As  your  fair  hand,  with  any   doubt  or  danger 
Far  be  it  from   my  heart  to  fright  yowr  quiet  ; 
A  heavy  curse  light  on  it,  when  I   intend   it. 

Quisar.     Now  I  dare  hear  you. 

Arm.     If  I   had  been  mischievous, 
As  then  I  must  be  mad  ;    or  were  a  monster, 
If  any  such   base  thought  had  harbour'd  here, 
Or  violence  that  became  not  man, 
You  have  a  thousand  bulwarks  to  assure  you, 
The  holy  powers  bear  shields  to  defend  chastity  ; 
Your  honor,  and  your  virtues  are  such  armours ; 
Your  clear  thoughts  such  defences  ;     if  you  mis-doubt  still 
And  yet  retain  a  fear,  I  am   not  honest, 
Come  with   impure  thoughts  to  this  place  ; 
Take  this,  and  sheath   it  here  ;    be  your  own  safety  ; 
Be  wise,  and  rid  your  fears,  and  let  me  perish  ; 
How  willing  shall  I  sleep  to  satisfie  you. 

Quisar.     No,  I   believe  now,  you  speak  worthily ; 
What  came  you  then  for  ? 

Arm.     To  complain  me,  beauty, 

138 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

But  modestly. 

Quisar.     Of  what  ? 

Arm.     Of  your  fierce  cruelty, 
For  though  I  dye,  I  will  not  blame  the  doer  : 
Humbly  to  tell  your  grace,  ye  had  forgot  me  : 
A  little  to  have  touch'd  at,  not  accused, 
For  that  I  dare  not  do,  your  scorns,  pray  pardon  me 
And  be  not  angry  that  I  use  the  liberty 
To  urge  that  word,  a  little  to  have  shew'd  you 
What  I  have  been,  and  what  done  to  deserve  ye, 
If  any  thing  that  love  commands  may  reach  ye  : 
To  have  remembred  ye,  but  I  am  unworthy, 
And  to  that  misery  falls  all  my  fortunes, 
To  have  told  ye,  and  by  my  life  ye  may  believe  me, 
That  I  am  honest,  and  will  only  marry 
You,  or  your  memory;    pray  be  not  angry. 

Qulsar.     I  thank  you  Sir,  and   let  me  tell  you  seriously, 
Ye  have  taken  now  the  right  way  to  befriend  ye, 
And  to  beget  a  fair  and  clear  opinion, 
Yet  to  try  your  obedience — 

Arm.     I  stand  ready  Lady. 
Without  presuming  to  ask  any  thing. 

Quisar.     Or  at  this  time  to  hope  for  further  favour ; 
Or  to  remember  services  or  smiles  ; 

Dangers  you  have  past  through,  and  rewards  due  to  'em  ; 
Loves  or  despairs,  but  leaving  all  to  me  : 
Quit  this  place  presently. 

Arm.     I  shall  obey  ye. 

Enter  Ruy  Dias. 

Ru.    Ha? 

Arm.     Who's  this  ? 
What  art  thou  ? 

Ru.     A  Gentleman. 

Arm.     Thou  art  no  more  I'm  sure :   oh  'tis  Ruy  Dias ; 
How  high  he  looks,  and  harsh  ! 

Ru.     Is  there  not  door  enough, 
You  take  such  elbow  room  ? 

Arm.     If  I  take  it,  I'll  carry  it. 

Ru.     Does  this  become  you  Princess  ? 

'39 


THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS     ACT  in 

Arm.     The  Captain's  jealous. 
Jealous  of  that  he  never  durst  deserve  yet  ; 
Goe   freely,  goe,  I'll  give  thce   leave. 
Ru.     Your  leave,  Sir  ? 

Arm.      Yes  my   leave  Sir,   I'll   not  be  troubled   neither, 
Nor  shall   my   heart  alee,  or   my   head   be  jealous, 
Nor  strange  suspitious  thoughts  reign  in   my   memory ; 
Go  on,  and  do  thy   worst,  I'll  smile  at  thee  ; 
I  kiss  your  fair  hand  first,  then   farewel  Captain.  [Exit. 

Quisar.      What  a  pure  soul  inherits  here!   what  innocence! 
Sure  I  was  blind  when  I  first  lov'd  this  fellow, 
And  long  to  live  in   that  fogg  still  :    how  he  blusters  ! 
Ru.     Am  I   your  property?    or  those  your  flatteries, 
The  banquets  that  ye  bid  me  to,  the  trust 
I  build  my  goodly   hopes  on  ? 
Quisar.      Be  more  temperate. 

Ru.     Are  these  the  shews  of  your  respecl  and  favour  ? 
What  did  he  here,  what  language  had  he  with  ye  ? 
Did  ye  invite  ?    could  ye  stay  no  longer  ? 
Is  he  so  gracious  in  your  eye  ? 
Quisar.     You  are  too  forward. 
Ru.     Why  at  these  private  hours  ? 
Quisar.     You  are  too  saucy, 
Too  impudent  to  task  me  with  those  errors. 
Do  ye  know  what  I  am  Sir,  and  my  prerogative  ? 
Though  you  be  a  thing  I'  have  call'd  by  th'  name  of  friend, 
I  never  taught  you  to  dispose  my  liberty; 
How  durst  you  touch  mine  honor  ?    blot  my  meanings  ? 
And  name  an  action,  and  of  mine  but  noble  ? 
Thou  poor  unworthy  thing,  how  have  I   grac'd  thee  ! 
How  have  I  nourisht  thee,  and  raised  thee  hourly  ! 
Are  these  the  gratitudes  you  bring  Ruy  Dias  ? 
The  thanks  ?    the  services  ?     I  am   fairly  paid  ; 
Was't  not  enough  I  saw  thou  wert  a  Coward, 
And  shaddowed  thee  ?    no  noble  sparkle  in  thee  ? 
Daily  provok'd   thee,  and  still  found  thee  coward  ? 
Rais'd  noble  causes  for  thee,  strangers  started  at  ; 
Yet  still,  still,  still  a  Coward,  ever  Coward  ; 
And  with  those  taints,  dost  thou  upbraid  my  virtues  ? 
Ruy.     I  was  too  blame 

140 


ACT  iv     THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

Lady. 

Quisar.     So  blindly  bold  to  touch  at  my  behaviour  ? 
Durst  thou  but  look  amiss  at  my  allowance  ? 
If  thou  hadst  been  a  brave  fellow,  thou  hadst  had  some  licence 
Some  liberty  I  might  have  then  allowed  thee 
For  thy  good  face,  some  scope  to  have  argued  with  me  ; 
But  being  nothing  but  a  sound,  a  shape, 
The  meer  sign  of  a  Soldier — of  a  Lover. 
The  dregs  and  draffy  part,  disgrace  and  jealousie, 
I  scorn  thee  ;    and  contemn  thee. 

Ru.     Dearest  Lady, 
If  I  have  been  too  free — 

Quisar.     Thou  hast  been  too  foolish, 
And  go  on  still,  I'll  study  to  forget  thee, 
I  would  I  could,  and  yet  I  pity  thee.  [Exit. 

Ru.     I  am  not  worth  it,  if  I  were,  that's  misery, 
The  next  door  is  but  death,  I  must  aim  at  it.  [Exit. 

Aftus  Quartus.     Sctena  Prima. 

Enter  King  and  Governor,  like  a  Moor-Priest. 

Kin.   ^*  O  far  and  truly  you  have  discovered  to  me 

v^   The  former  currents  of  my  life  and  fortune, 
That  I  am  bound  to  acknowledge  ye  most  holy, 
And  certainly  to  credit  your  predictions, 
Of  what  are  yet  to  come. 

Gov.     I  am  no  Iyer, 

'Tis  strange  I  should,  and  live  so  near  a  neighbor  ; 
But  these  are  not  my  ends. 

Kin.     Pray  ye  sit  good  father, 
Certain  a  reverend  man,  and  most  religious. 

Gov.     I,  that  belief's  well  now,  and  let  me  work  then, 
I'll  make  ye  curse  Religion  e'er  I  leave  ye  : 
I  have  liv'd  a  long  time  Son,  a  mew'd  up  man, 
Sequester'd  by  the  special  hand  of  Heaven 
From  the  worlds  vanities,  bid  farewel  to  follies, 
And  shook  hands  with  all  heats  of  youth  and  pleasures, 
As  in  a  dream  these  twenty  years  I  have  slumber'd, 
Many  a  cold  Moon  have  I,  in  meditation 

141 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS     ACT  iv 

And  searching  out  the  hidden   Wils  of  heaven, 

Lain  shaking  under  ;    many  a  burning  Sun 

Has  sear'd   my   body,  and   boil'd   up   my   blood, 

Feebl'd  my  knees,  and  stampt  a  Meagerness 

Upon  my  figure,  all  to  find  out  knowledge, 

Which   I  have  now  attained   to,  thanks  to  heaven, 

All   for  my  countreys  good  too  :    and  many  a  vision, 

Many  a  mistick  vision  have  I  seen  Son. 

And  many  a  sight   from  heaven   which   has  been  terrible, 

Wherein  the  Goods  and  Evils  of  these  Islands 

Were  lively  shadowed  ;    many  a  charge  I  have  had  too, 

Still  as  the  time  grew  ripe  to  reveal  these, 

To  travel  and  discover,  now  I  am  come  Son, 

The  hour  is  now  appointed, 

My  tongue  is  touch'd,  and  now  I  speak. 

Kin.     Do  Holy  man,  I'll  hear  ye. 

Gov.     Beware  these  Portugal* ;    I  say  beware  'em, 
These  smooth-fac'd  strangers  ;    have  an  eye  upon  'em. 
The  cause  is  now  the  God's,  hear,  and  believe  King. 

King.     I  do  hear,  but  before  I  give  rash  credit, 
Or  hang  too  light  on  belief,  which  is  a  sin,  father  ; 
Know  I  have  found  'em  gentle,  faithful,  valiant, 
And  am  in  my  particular,  bound  to  'em, 
I  mean  to  some  for  my  most  strange  deliverance. 

Gov.     Oh  Son,  the  future  aims  of  men,  observe  me, 
Above  their  present  adtions,  and  their  glory, 
Are  to  be  look'd  at,  the  Stars  shew  many  turnings, 
If  you  could  see,  mark  but  with  my  eyes,  pupil  ; 
These  men  came  hither,  as  my  vision  tells  me, 
Poor  weather-beaten,  almost  lost,  starv'd,  feebled, 
Their  vessels  like  themselves,  most  miserable  ; 
Made  a  long  sute  for  traffique,  and  for  comfort, 
To  vent  their  childrens  toys,  cure  their  diseases  : 
They  had  their  sute,  they  landed,  and  to  th'  rate 
Grew  rich  and  powerful,  suckt  the  fat,  and  freedom 
Of  this  most  blessed  Isle,  taught  her  to  tremble, 
Witness  the  Castle  here,  the  Citadel, 
They  have  clapt  upon  the  neck  of  your   Tidore, 
This  happy  Town,  till  that  she  knew  these  strangers, 
To  check  her  when  she's  jolly. 

142 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

King.     They  have  so  indeed  Father. 

Gov.     Take  heed,  take  heed,  I  find  your  fair  delivery, 
Though  you  be  pleas'd  to  glorifie  that  fortune, 
And  think  these  strangers  gods,  take  heed  I  say, 
I  find  it  but  a  handsome  preparation, 
A  fair-fac'd  Prologue  to  a  further  mischief: 
Mark  but  the  end  good  King,  the  pin  he  shoots  at 
That  was  the  man  deliver'd  ye  ;    the  mirror, 
Your  Sister  is  his  due  ;    what's  she,  your  heir,  Sir  ? 
And  what's  he  a  kin  then  to  the  kingdom  ? 
But  heirs  are  not  ambitious,  who  then  suffers  ? 
What  reverence  shall  the  gods  have  ?    and  what  justice 
The  miserable  people  ?    what  shall  they  do  ? 

King.     He  points  at  truth  direclly. 

Gov.     Think  of  these  Son  : 
The  person,  nor  the  manner  I  mislike  not 
Of  your  preserver,  nor  the  whole  man  together, 
Were  he  but  season'd  in  the  Faith  we  are, 
In  our  Devotions  learn'd. 

King.     You  say  right  Father. 

Gov.     To  change  our  Worships  now,  and  our  Religion  ? 
To  be  traytor  to  our  God  ? 

King.     You  have  well  advised  me, 
And  I  will  seriously  consider  Father, 
In  the  mean  time  you  shall  have  your  fair  access 
Unto  my  Sister,  advise  her  to  your  purpose, 
And  let  me  still  know  how  the  gods  determine. 

Gov.     I  will,  but  my  main  end  is  to  advise 
The  destruction  of  you  all,  a  general  ruine, 
And  when  I  am  reveng'd,  let  the  gods  whistle.          [Exeunt. 

Enter  Ruy  Dias,  and  Pyniero. 

Ruy.     Indeed,  I  am  right  glad  ye  were  not  greedy, 
And  sudden  in  performing  what  I  will'd  you, 
Upon  the  person  of  Armusia, 
I  was  afraid,  for  I  well  knew  your  valour, 
And  love  to  me. 

Py.     'Twas  not  a  fair  thing,  Uncle, 
It  shew'd  not  handsome,  carried  no  man  in  it. 

Ruy.     I  must  confess  'twas  ill ;    and  I  abhor  it, 

H3 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS     ACT  iv 

Only  this  good   has  risen   from   this  evil  ; 
I    have   tried   your   honesty,   and   find   proof, 
A  constancy   that  will   not   be  corrupted, 
And   I  much   honor   it. 

Py.     This  Bell  sounds  better. 

Rn\.      My  anger   now,  and    that   disgrace  I   have  suffer'd, 
Snail   be  more  manly  vented,  and  wip'd  off, 
And   my  sick  honor  cur'd  the  right  and  straight  way ; 
My  Sword's  in   my  hand  now   Nephew,  my  cause  upon   it, 
And  man  to  man,  one  valour  to  another, 
My   hope  to  his. 

Py.     Why?    this  is  like  Ruy  Dias  ? 
This  carries  something  of  some  substance  in   it ; 
Some  mettle  and  some  man,   this  sounds  a  Gentleman  ; 
And  now  methinks  ye  utter  what  becomes  ye  ; 
To  kill  men  scurvily,  'tis  such  a  dog-trick, 
Such  a  Rat-catchers  occupation — 

Ru.     It  is  no  better, 
But  Pyniero,  now — 

Py.     Now  you  do  bravely. 

Ru.     The  difference  of  our  States  flung  by,  forgotten, 
The  full  opinion  I  have  won   in  service, 
And  such   respefts  that  may  not  shew  us  equal, 
Laid  handsomly  aside,  only  our  fortunes, 
And  single  manhoods — 

Py.     In  a  service,  Sir, 
Of  this  most  noble  nature,  all  I  am, 
If  I  had  ten  lives  more,  those  and  my  fortunes 
Are  ready  for  ye,  I  had  thought  ye  had   forsworn    fighting, 
Or  banish'd  those  brave  thoughts  were  wont  to  wait  upon  you; 
I  am  glad  to  see  'em  call'd  home  agen. 

Ruy.     They  are  Nephew, 

And  thou  shalt  see  what  fire  they  carry  in  them, 
Here,  you  guess  what  this  means.  [Shews  a  challenge. 

Py.     Yes  very  well,  Sir, 
A  portion  of  Scripture  that  puzles  many  an   interpreter. 

Ruy.     As  soon  as  you  can  find  him — 

Py.     That  will  not  be  long  Uncle, 
And  o'  my  conscience  he'll  be  ready  as  quickly. 

Ruy.     I  make  no  doubt  good  Nephew,  carry  it  so 

144 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

If  you  can  possible,  that  we  may  fight. 

Py.     Nay  you  shall  fight,  assure  your  self. 

Ru.     Pray  ye  hear  me 

In  some  such  place  where  it  may  be  possible 
The  Princess  may  behold  us. 

Py.     I  conceive  ye, 
Upon  the  sand  behind  the  Castle,  Sir, 
A  place  remote  enough,  and  there  be  windows 
Out  of  her  Lodgings  too,  or  I  am  mistaken. 

Ruy.     Y'are  fth'  right,  if  ye  can  work  that  handsomly — 

Py.     Let  me  alone,  and  pray  be  you  prepared 
Some  three  hours  hence. 

Ruy.     I  will  not  fail. 

Py.     Get  you  home, 

And  if  you  have  any  things  to  dispose  of, 
Or  a  few  light  prayers 

That  may  befriend  you,  run  'em  over  quickly, 
I  warrant  I'll  bring  him  on. 

Ruy.     Farewel  Nephew, 
And  when  we  meet  again — 

Py.     I,  I,  fight  handsomly; 

Take  a  good  draught  or  two  of  Wine  to  settle  ye, 
'Tis  an  excellent  armour  for  an  ill  conscience,  Uncle  ; 
I  am  glad  to  see  this  mans  conversion, 
I  was  afraid  fair  honor  had  been  bed-rid, 
Or  beaten  out  o'  th'  Island,  soldiers,  and  good  ones, 
Intended  such  base  courses  ?    he  will  fight  now ; 
And  I  believe  too  bravely;    I  have  seen  him 
Curry  a  fellows  carkasse  handsomely: 

And  in  the  head  of  a  troop,  stand  as  if  he  had  been  rooted  there, 
Dealing  large  doles  of  death  ;    what  a  rascal  was  I 
I  did  not  see  his  Will  drawn  ! 
What  does  she  here  ? 

Enter  Quisara. 

If  there  be  any  mischief  towards,  a  woman  makes  one  still ; 
Now  what  new  business  is  for  me  ? 

Qulsar.     I  was  sending  for  ye, 
But  since  we  have  met  so  fair, 
You  have  sav'd  that  labour ;    I   must  intreat  you,  Sir — 

B.-F.  VIII.  K  145 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS     ACT  iv 

P\.     Any  thing   Madam, 
Your  Wils  are   my  Commands. 

Quisar.     Y'are   nobly  courteous  ; 
Upon   my   better  thoughts  Signior  Pyniero^ 
And   my   more  peaceable  considerations, 
Which   now  I  find  the  richer  ornaments  ; 
I   wou'd  desire  you  to  attempt  no  farther 
Against  the  person  of  the  noble  stranger, 
In   truth   I  am  asham'd  of  my  share  in't  ; 
Nor  be  incited   farther  by  your  Uncle, 
I  see  it  will  sit  ill  upon  your  person  ; 
I  have  considered,  and  it  will  shew  ugly, 
Carried  at  best,  a  most  unheard  of  cruelty ; 
Good  Sir  desist — 

Py.     You  speak  now  like  a  woman, 
And  wondrous  well  this  tenderness  becomes  ye  ; 
But   this  you  must  remember — your  command 
Was  laid  on  with  a  kiss,  and  seriously 
It  must  be  taken  off  the  same  way,  Madam, 
Or  I  stand  bound  still. 

Quisar.     That  shall   not  endanger  ye, 
Look  ye  fair  Sir,  thus  I  take  off  that  duty. 
Py.     By  th'  mass  'twas  soft  and  sweet, 
Some  bloods  would  bound  now, 
And  run  a  tilt;    do  not  you  think  bright  beauty; 
You  have  done  me  in  this  kiss,  a  mighty  favour, 
And  that  [I  stand]  bound  by  virtue  of  this  honor, 
To  do  what  ever  you  command  me  ? 

Quisar.     I  think  Sir, 
From  me  these  are  unusual  courtesies, 
And  ought  to  be  respecled  so  ;    there  are  some, 
And  men  of  no  mean  rank,  would  hold  themselves 
Not  poorly  blest  to  taste  of  such  a  bounty. 

Py.     I  know  there  are,  that  wou'd  do  many  unjust  things 
For  such  a  kiss,  and  yet  I  hold  this  modest ; 
All  villanies,  body  and  soul  dispense  with, 
For  such  a  provocation,  kill  their  kindred, 
Demolish  the  fair  credits  of  their  Parents  ; 
Those  kisses  I  am  not  acquainted  with,  most  certain  Madam, 
The  appurtenance  of  this  kiss  wou'd  not  provoke  me 

146 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

To  do  a  mischief,  'tis  the  devils  own  dance, 
To  be  kiss'd  into  cruelty. 

Quisar.     I  am  glad  you  make  that  use  Sir. 

Py.     I  am  gladder 

That  you  made  me  believe  you  were  cruel, 
For  by  this  hand,  I  know  I  am  so  honest, 
However  I  deceived  ye,  'twas  high  time  too, 
Some  common  slave  might  have  been  set  upon  it  else  ; 
That  willingly  I  wou'd  not  kill  a  dog 
That  could  but  fetch  and  carry  for  a  woman, 
She  must  be  a  good  woman  made  me  kick  him, 
And  that  will  be  hard  to  find,  to  kill  a  man, 
If  you  will  give  me  leave  to  get  another, 
Or  any  she  that  plaid  the  best  game  at  it, 
And  'fore  a  womans  anger,  prefer  her  fancy. 

Quisar.     I  take  it  in  you  well. 

Py.     I  thank  ye  Lady, 
And  I  shall  study  to  confirm  it. 

Quisar.     Do  Sir, 

For  this  time,  and  this  present  cause,  I  allow  it, 
Most  holy  Sir. 

Enter  Governor,  Quisana,  and  Panura. 

Gov.     Bless  ye  my  Royal  Daughter, 
And  in  you,  bless  this  Island  Heaven. 

Quisar.     Good  Aunt, 
What  think  ye  of  this  man  ? 

Quisan.     Sure  h'  is  a  wise  man, 
And  a  Religious,  he  tells  us  things  have  hapened 
So  many  years  ago,  almost  forgotten, 
As  readily  as  if  they  were  done  this  hour. 

Quisar.     Does  he  not  meet  with  your  sharp  tongue  ? 

Pan.     He  tells  me  Madam, 
Marriage,  and  mouldy  Cheese  will  make  me  tamer. 

Gov.     A  stubborn  keeper,  and  worse  fare, 
An  open  stable,  and  cold  care, 
Will  tame  a  Jade,  may  be  your  share. 

Pan.     Bir  Lady,  a  sharp  prophet,  when  this  proves  good, 
I'll  bequeath  you  a  skin  to  make  ye  a  Hood. 

Gov.     Lady,  I  would  talk  with  you. 

K2  147 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS     ACT  iv 

Quisar.      Do   reverend   Sir. 

Gov.     And  for  your  good,  for  that  that   must  concern  ye, 
And  give  ear  wisely  to   me. 

Quisar.     I   shall   father. 

Gov.     You  are  a  Princess  of  that  excellence, 
Sweetness,  and  grace,  that  Angel-like  fair   feature, 
Nay,  do  not   blush,  I  do  not  flatter  you, 
Nor  do  I  dote  in  telling  this,  I  am  amazed   Lady, 
And  as  I  think  the  gods  bestow'd  these  on  ye, 
The  gods  that  love  ye. 

Quisar.     I   confess  their  bounty. 

Gov.     Apply  it  then  to  their  use,  to  their  honor, 
To  them,  and   to  their  service  give  this  sweetness; 
They  have  an   instant  great  use  of  your  goodness  ; 
You  are  a  Saint  esteem'd  here  for  your  beauty, 
And  many  a  longing  heart — 

Quisar.     I  seek  no  fealty, 

Nor  will  I  blemish  that,  heaven  has  seal'd  on   me, 
I  know  my  worth,   indeed  the  Portugals 
I  have  at  those  commands,  and  their  last  services, 
Nay,  even  their  lives,  so  much  I  think  my  handsomness, 
That  what  I  shall  enjoyn — 

Gov.     Use  it  discreetly. 
For  I   perceive  ye  understand  me  rightly, 
For  here  the  gods  regard  your  help,  and  suddainly; 
The  Portugal^  like  sharp  thorns  (mark  me  Lady) 
Stick  in  our  sides,  like  Razors,  wound  Religion, 
Draw  deep,  they  wound,  till  the  Life-bloud  follows, 
Our  gods  they  spurn  at,  and  their  worships  scorn, 
A  mighty  hand  they  bear  upon  our  government, 
These  are  the  men  your  miracle  must  work  on, 
Your  heavenly  form,  either  to  root  them  out, 
Which  as  you  may  endeavour  will  be  easie, 
Remember  whose  great  cause  you  have  to  execute, 
To  nip  their  memory,  that  may  not  spring  more, 
Or  fairly  bring  'em  home  to  our  devotions, 
Which  will  be  blessed,  and   for  which  you  sainted, 
But  cannot  be,  and  they  go  ;    let  me  buzle. 

Quisar.     Go  up  with  me, 
Where  we'll  converse  more  privately; 

148 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

I'll  shew  ye  shortly  how  I  hold  their  temper  ; 
And   in  what  chain  thir  souls. 

Gov.     Keep  fast  that  hold  still, 

And  either  bring  that  chain,  and  those  bound  in  it, 
And  link  it  to  our  gods,  and  their  fair  worships. 
Or  Daughter,  pinch  their  hearts  apieces  with   it, 
I'll  wait  upon  your  grace. 

Quisar.     Come  reverend  father. 
Wait  you  below.  [Ex.  Quisar.  and  Gov. 

Pan.     If  this  Prophet  were  a  young  thing, 
I  should  suspecl:  him  now,  he  cleaves  so  close  to  her ; 
These  holy  Coats  are  long,  and  hide  iniquities. 

Quisan.     Away,  away  fool,  a  poor  wretch. 

Pan.     These  poor  ones 
Warm  but  their  stomachs  once — 

Quisan.     Come  in,  thou  art  foolish. 

[Ex.  Quisania  and  Panura. 

Enter  Armusia,  Emanuel,  and  Pyniero. 

Arm.     I  am  sorry,  Sir,  my  fortune  is  so  stubborn, 
To  court  my  sword  against  my  Countreyman  ; 
I  love  my  Nation  well,  and  where  I  find 
A  Portugal  of  noble  Name  and  Virtue, 
I  am  his  humble  servant,  Signior  Pyniero, 
Your  person,  nor  your  Uncles  am  I  angry  with, 
You  are  both  fair  Gentlemen  in  my  opinion, 
And  I  protest,  I  had  rather  use  my  sword 
In  your  defences,  than  against  your  safeties  ; 
'Tis  methinks  a  strange  dearth  of  enemies, 
When  we  seek  foes  among  our  selves. 

Em.     You  are  injured, 
And  you  must  make  the  best  on't  now,  and  readiest — 

Arm.     You  see  I  am  ready  in  the  place,  and  arm'd 
To  his  desire  that  call'd  me. 

Py.     Ye  speak  honestly, 

And  I  could  wish  ye  had  met  on  terms  more  friendly, 
But  it  cannot  now  be  so. 

Enter  Ruy  Dias. 
Em.     Turn  Sir,  and  see. 

149 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS     ACT  iv 

Py.     I   have  kept   my  word   with   ye  Uncle, 
The  Gentleman   is  ready. 

Enter  Governor,  and  Quisara  above. 

Arm.     Ye  are  welcome. 

Ru.     Bid   those  fools  welcome,  that  affecl  your  courtesie, 
I  come  not  to  use  compliment,  ye   have  wrong'd   me, 
And  ye  shall   feel,  proud   man,   e'r   I   part   from  ye, 
The  effects  of  that,   if  fortune  do  not   fool   me  ; 
Thy  life  is  mine,  and  no  hope  shall   redeem  thee. 

Arm.     That's  a  proud   word, 
More  than  your  faith  can  justifie. 

Quisar.     Sure  they  will  fight. 

Ruy.     She's  there,  I  am  happy. 

Gov.     Let  'em  alone,  let  'em  kill  one  another, 
These  are  the  main  posts,  if  they  fall,  the   buildings 
Will  tumble  quickly. 

Quisar.     How  temperate  Armusia  \ 
No  more,  be  quiet  yet. 

Arm.     I  am  not  bloody, 
Nor  do  not  feel  such  mortal  malice  in   me, 
But  since  we  cannot  both  enjoy  the  Princess, 
I  am  resolv'd  to  fight. 

Ruy.     Fight  home  Armusia^ 
For  if  thou  faint'st,  or  fall'st — 

Arm.     Do  ye  make  all  'vantages  ? 

Ruy.     Always  ;    unto  thy  life  I  will  not  spare  thee, 
Nor  look  not  for  thy  mercy. 

Arm.     I  am  arm'd  then. 

Ruy.     Stand  still  I  charge  ye  Nephew,  as   ye  honor   me. 

Arm.     And  good  Emanuel  stir  not — 

Py.      Ye  speak  fitly, 
For  we  had  not  stood  idle  else. 

Gov.     I  am  sorry  for't. 

Em.     But  since  you  will  have  it  so — 

Ruy.     Come  Sir. 

Arm.     I  wait  ye. 

Py.     I  marry,  this  looks  handsomely, 
This  is  warm  work. 

Gov.     Both  fall  and't  be  thy  Will.  [Ruy  falls. 

150 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

Py.     My  Uncle  dead  ? 

Em.     Stand  still,  or  my  swords  in — 

Arm.     Now  brave  Ruy  Diasy 

Now  where's  your  confidence,  your  prayers  ?    quickly 
Your  own  spite  has  condemn'd  ye. 

Quisar.     Hold  Armusla. 

Ar.     Most  happy  Lady. 

Quisar.     Hold,  and  let  him  rise, 
Spare  him  for  me. 

Ar.     A  long  life  may  he  enjoy,  Lady. 

Gov.     What  ha  you  done?  'tis  better  they  had  all  perisht. 

Quisar.     Peace  father,  I  work  for  the  best ;    Armusia, 
Be  in  the  Garden  an  hour  hence.  [Ex.  Qu.  and  Gov. 

Ar.     I  shall  Madam. 

Py.     Now  as  I  live,  a  Gentleman  at  all  inches, 
So  brave  a  mingled  temper  saw  I  never. 

Ar.     Why  are  ye  sad  Sir?  how  would  this  have  griev'd  you, 
If  ye  had  fall'n  under  a  profest  enemy? 
Under  one  had  taken  vantage  of  your  shame  too  ? 
Pray  ye  be  at  peace,  I  am  so  far  from  wronging  ye, 
Or  glorying  in  the  pride  of  such  a  victory, 
That  I  desire  to  serve  ye,  pray  look  chearfully.         (Gentleman 

Py.     Do  you  hear  this  Sir?  this  love  Sir?  do  you  see  this 
How  he  courts  ye  ?    why  do  you  hold  your  head  down  ? 
'Tis  no  high  Treason,  I  take  it,  to  be  equalPd  ; 
To  have  a  slip  i'  th  field,  no  sin,  that's  mortal  ; 
Come,  come,  thank  fortune  and  your  friend. 

Ar.     It  may  be 

You  think  my  tongue  may  prove  your  enemy; 
And  though  restrain'd  sometimes,  out  of  a  bravery, 
May  take  a  License  to  disable  ye  : 
Believe  me  Sir,  so  much  I  hate  that  liberty, 
That  in  a  strangers  tongue,  'twill  prove  an  injury, 
And  I  shall  right  you  in't. 

Py.     Can  you  have  more,  Uncle  ? 

Ru.     Sir,  you  have  beat  me  both  ways,  yet  so  nobly, 
That  I  shall  ever  love  the  hand  that  did  it  : 
Fortune  may  make  me  worthy  of  some  title 
That  may  be  near  your  friend. 

Ar.     Sir,  I  must  leave  ye, 


THK  ISLAND   PRINCESS     ACT  iv 

Hut   with   so   hearty   love  ;    and   pray   he  confident, 
I   carry   nothing   from   this   place  shall   wrong  ye. 

[Exit  Arm.  and  Em. 

P\.      Come,  come,  you  are  right  agen,  Sir,  love  your  honor, 
And   love  your   friend,   take   heed  of  bloody  purposes, 
And   unjust   ends,  good   heaven   is  angry   with   ye; 
Make  your  fair  virtues,  and  your  fame  your  Mistriss, 
And   let  these  trinkets  go. 

Rn.      You  teach   well   Nephew, 

Now   to  be  honourable]   even  with  this  Gentleman, 
Shall   be  my   business,  and  my  ends  his. 

Enter  Governor  and  King. 

Gov.     Sir,  Sir,  you  must  do  something  suddainly, 
To  stop  his  pride  so  great  and  high,  he  is  shot  up, 
Upon   his  person  too,  your  state  is  sunk  else : 
You  must  not  stand  now  upon  terms  of  gratitude, 
And  let  a  simple  tenderness  besot  ye  : 
I'll  bring  ye  suddenly  where  you  shall  see  him, 
Attempting  your  brave  Sister,  privately, 
Mark  but  his  high  behaviour  then. 

King.     I  will  Father. 

Gov.     And  with  scorn,  I  fear  contempt  too. 

King.     I  hope  not. 

Gov.     I  will  not  name  a  lust  ; 
It  may  be  that  also  ; 

A  little  force  must  be  applyed  upon  him, 
Now,  now  applyed,  a  little  force  to  humble  him. 
These  sweet  intreaties  do  but  make  him  wanton. 

King.     Take  heed  ye  wrong  him  not. 

Gov.     Take  heed  to  your  safety, 
I  but  forewarn  ye  King  ;    if  you  mistrust  me, 
Or  think  I  come  un-sent — 

King.     No,   I'll  go  with  you.  [Exeunt. 

Enter  Armusia,  Quisara. 

Arm.     Madam,  you  see  there's  nothing  I  can   reach   at, 
Either  in   my  obedience,  or  my  service, 
That  may  deserve  your  love,  or  win  a  liking, 
But  a  poor  thought,  but  I  pursue  it  seriously, 

152 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

Take  pleasure  in  your  Will,  even  in  your  anger, 

Which  other  men  would  grudge  at,  and  grow  stormy; 

I  study  new  humility  to  please  ye, 

And  take  a  kind  of  joy  in  my  afflictions, 

Because  they  come  from  ye,  I  love  my  sorrows  : 

Pray  Madam  but  consider — 

Quisar.     Yes,  I  do  Sir, 

And  to  that  honest  end  I  drew  thee  hither ; 
I  know  ye  have  deserv'd  as  much  as  man  can, 
And  know  it  is  a  justice  to  requite  you  : 
I  know  ye  love. 

Arm.     If  ever  love  was  mortal, 

And  dwelt  in  man,  and  for  that  love  command  me, 
So  strong  I  find  it,  and  so  true,  here  Lady, 
Something  of  such  a  greatness  to  allow  me, 
Those  things  I  have  done  already,  may  seem  foyls  too  : 
'Tis  equity  that  man  aspires  to  heaven, 
Should  win  it  by  his  worth,  and  not  sleep  to  it. 

Enter  Governor^  and  King. 

Gov.     Now  stand  close  King  and  hear,  and  as  you  find  him, 
Believe  me  right,  or  let  Religion  suffer. 

Quisar.     I  dare  believe  your  worth  without  additions  ; 
But  since  you  are  so  liberal  of  your  love  Sir, 
And  wou'd  be  farther  tried,  I  do  intend  it, 
Because  you  shall  not,  or  you  wou'd  not  win  me 
At  such  an  easie  rate. 

Arm.     I  am  prepared  still, 
And  if  I  shrink — 

Quisar.     I  know  ye  are  no  coward, 
This  is  the  utmost  trial  of  your  constancy, 
And  if  you  stand  fast  now,  I  am  yours,  your  wife  Sir ; 
You  hold  there's  nothing  dear  that  may  atchieve  me, 
Doubted  or  dangerous. 

Arm.     There's  nothing,  nothing : 
Let  me  but  know,  that  I  may  straight  flie  to  it. 

Quisar.     I'll  tell  you  then,  change  your  Religion. 
And  be  of  one  belief  with  me. 

Arm.     How  ? 

Quisar.     Mark, 

'53 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS     ACT  iv 

Worship  our  Gods,   renounce  that  faith  ye  are  bred  in  ; 
'Tis  easily  done,  I'll   teach   ye  suddenly  ; 
And   humbly   on   your  knees — 

Arm.      Ha  ?    I'll   be  hang'd  first. 

Quisar.      Offer  as  we  do. 

Arm.     To  the  devil   Lady  ? 
Offer  to  him   I   hate  ?     I  know  the  devil. 
To  dogs  and  cats  ?    you  make  offer  to  them  ; 
To  every   bird   that  flies,  and  every  worm. 
How  terribly   I  shake  !     Is  this  the  venture  ? 
The  trial   that  you   talk'd  of?    where  have  I   been  ? 
And   how  forgot  my  self?    how  lost  my  memory? 
When  did   I  pray,  or  look  up  stedfastly  ? 
Had  any  goodness  in  my  heart  to  guide  me  ? 
That  I   should  give  this  vantage  to  mine  enemy  ; 
The  enemy   to  my  peace,   forsake  my  faith  ? 

Quisar.     Come,  come,   I   know  ye  love  me. 

Arm.     Love  ye  this  way  ? 
This  most  destroying  way  ?    sure  you  but  jest,  Lady. 

Quisar.      My  Love  and   Life  are  one  way. 

Arm.     Love  alone  then,  and  mine  another  way, 
I'll  love  diseases  first, 

Doat  on  a  villain  that  would  cut  my  throat, 
Wooe  all  afflictions  of  all  sorts,  kiss  cruelty. 
Have  mercy  heaven,  how  have  I  been  wand'ring  ! 
Wand'ring  the  way  of  Lust,  and  left  my  Maker  ! 
How  have  I  slept  like  Cork  upon  a  water, 
And  had  no  feeling  of  the  storm  that  tost  me  ! 
Trode  the  blind  paths  of  death  !    forsook  assurance, 
Eternity  of  blessedness  for  a  woman  ! 
For  a  young  handsome  face,  hazard  my   Being  ! 

Quisar.     Are  not  our  powers  eternal,  so  their  comforts  ? 
As  great  and  full  of  hopes  as  yours  ? 

Arm.     They  are  puppets. 

Gov.      Now   mark  him  Sir,  and  but  observe  him  nearly. 

Ar.     Their  comforts  like  themselves,  cold,  sensless  outsides; 
You  make  'em  sick,  as  we  are,  peevish,  mad, 
Subjecl  to  age  ;    and  how  can  they  cure  us, 
That  are  not  able  to   refine  themselves  ? 

Quis.     The  Sun  and  Moon  we  worship,  those  are  heavenly, 

154 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

And  their  bright  influences  we  believe. 

Arm.     Away  fool, 

I  adore  the  Maker  of  that  Sun  and  Moon, 
That  gives  those  bodies  light  and  influence ; 
That  pointed  out  their  paths,  and  taught  their  motions  ; 
They  are  not  so  great  as  we,  they  are  our  servants, 
Plac'd  there  to  teach  us  time,  to  give  us  knowledge 
Of  when  and  how  the  swellings  of  the  main  are, 
And  their  returns  agen  ;    they  are  but  our  Stewards 
To  make  the  earth  fat,  with  their  influence, 
That  she  may  bring  forth  her  increase,  and  feed  us. 
Shall  I  fall  from   this  faith   to  please  a  woman  ? 
For  her  embraces  bring  my  soul  to  ruin  ? 
I  look'd  you  should  have  said,  make  me  a  Christian^ 
Work  that  great  cure,  for  'tis  a  great  one  woman  ; 
That  labor  truly  to  perform,  that  venture, 
The  crown  of  all  great  trial,  and  the  fairest : 
I  look'd  ye  should  have  wept  and  kneel'd  to  beg  it, 
Washt  off  your  mist  of  ignorance,  with  waters 
Pure  and  repentant,  from  those  eyes  ;    I  look'd 
You  should  have  brought  me  your  chief  god  ye  worship, 
He  that  you  offer  humane  bloud  and  life  to, 
And  make  a  sacrifice  of  him  to  memory, 
Beat  down  his  Altars,  ruin'd  his  false  Temples. 

Gov.     Now  you  may  see. 

Quhar.     Take  heed,  you  goe  too  far,  Sir, 
And  yet  I  love  to  hear  him,  I   must  have  ye, 
And  to  that  end  I  let  you  storm  a  little  ; 
I  know  there  must  be  some  strife  in  your  bosom 
To  cool  and  quiet  ye,  e'r  you  can  come  back  : 
I  know  old  friends  cannot  part  suddainly, 
There  will  be  some  lett  still,  yet  I  must  have  ye, 
Have  ye  of  my  faith  too,  and  so  enjoy  ye. 

Arm.     Now  I  contemn  ye,  and  I  hate  my  self 
For  looking  on  that  face  lasciviously, 
And  it  looks  ugly  now  me  thinks. 

Quhar.      How  Portugal^. 

Arm.     It  looks  like  death  it  self,  to  which  'twou'd  lead  me; 
Your  eyes  resemble  pale  dispair,  they  fright  me, 
And  in  their  rounds,  a  thousand  horrid   ruins, 

155 


THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS     ACT  iv 

Methinks  I  see  ;    and   in  your  tongue  hear  fearfully 

The  hideous  murmurs  of  weak  souls  have  suffer'd  ; 

Get   from   me,  I   despise  ye  ;    and  know  woman, 

That  for  all   this  trap  you   have   laid   to  catch   my  life  in, 

To  catch   my   immortal   life,   I   hate   and  curse  ye, 

Contemn  your  Deities,  spurn  at   their  powers, 

And   where  I   meet  your  Mahumet  gods,  I'll  swing  'em 

Thus  o'r  my  head,  and  kick  'em  into  puddles, 

Nay,   I   will  out  of  vengeance  search  your  Temples. 

And  with   those  hearts  that  serve  my  God,  demolish 

Your  shambles  of  wild  worships. 

Gov.     Now,  now  you  hear  Sir. 

Arm.     I  will  have  my  faith,  since  you  are  so  crafty, 
The  glorious  cross,  although  I  love  your  brother  ; 
Let  him  frown  too,  I  will  have  my  devotion, 
And  let  your  whole  State  storm. 

King.     Enter  and  take  him  ; 
I  am  sorry  friend  that  I  am  forc'd  to  do  this. 

Gov.     Be  sure  you  bind  him  fast. 

Quisar.     But  use  him  nobly. 

King.      Had  it  to   me  been  done,  I   had  forgiven   it, 
And  still  preserved  you  fair,  but  to  our  gods  Sir — 

Quisar.     Methinks  I  hate  'em   now. 

King.     To  our  Religion, 

To  these  to  be  thus  stubborn,  thus  rebellious 
To  threaten  them. 

Arm.     Use  all  your  violence, 
I  ask  no  mercy,  nor  repent  my  words  : 
I  spit  at  your  best  powers  ;    I  serve  one, 
Will  give  me  strength  to  scourge  your  gods. 

Gov.     Away  with  him. 

Arm.     To  grind  'em  into  base  dust,  and  disperse  'em, 
That  never  more  their  bloudy  memories — 

Gov.     Clap  him  close  up. 

King.     Good  friend   be  cooler. 

Arm.     Never ; 
Your  painted  Sister  I  despise  too. 

King.     Softly. 

Arm.     And  all  her  devilish  Arts  laugh  and  scorn  at, 
Mock  her  blind  purposes. 


ACT  v      THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

King.     You  must  be  temperate  ; 
Offer  him  no  violence,  I  command  you  strictly. 

Gov.     Now  thou  art  up,  I  shall  have  time  to  speak  too. 
Qulsar.     Oh  how  I  love  this  man,  how  truly  honor  him. 

[Exeunt. 


Aftus  Quintus.     Sctena    Prima. 

Enter  Christophero,  and  Pedro  (at  one  door)  Emanuel, 

and  Soza,  (at  another). 

Cbr.    TTA  O  you  know  the  news  Gentlemen  ? 
Em.    _L/Wou'd  we  knew  as  well,  Sir, 
How  to  prevent  it. 

Soz.     Is  this  the  love  they  bear  us, 
For  our  late  benefit  ?    taken  so  maliciously, 
And  clapt  up  close  ?    is  that  the  thanks  they  render  ? 

Ch.     It  must  not  be  put  up  thus,  smother'd  slightly, 
'Tis  such  a  base  unnatural  wrong. 

Fed.     I   know, 

They  may  think  to  doe  wonders,  aim  at  all, 
And  to  blow  us  with  a  vengeance,  out  o'th*  Islands  : 
But  if  we  be  our  selves,   honest  and  resolute, 
And  continue  but  Masters  of  our  antient  courages, 
Stick  close,  and  give  no  vantage  to  their  villanies — 

Soz.     Nay,  if  we  faint  or  fall  apieces  now, 
We  are  fools,  and  worthy  to  be  markt  for  misery  ; 
Begin  to  strike  at  him,  they  are  all  bound  too  ? 
To  cancel  his  deserts  ?    what  must  we  look  for 
If  they  can  carry  this  ? 

Em.     I'll  carry  coals  then  ; 

I  have  but  one  life,  and  one  fortune,  Gentlemen, 
But  I'll  so  husband  it  to  vex  these  rascals, 
These  barbarous  slaves. 

Ch.     Shall  we  go  charge  'em  presently  ? 

Soz.     No,  that  will  be  too  weak,  and  too  fool-hardy, 
We  must  have  grounds,  that  promise  safety,  friends, 
And  sure  offence,  we  lose  our  angers  else, 
And  worse  than  that,  venture  our  lives  too  lightly. 

'57 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS      ACT  v 

Enter  Pynicro. 

Py.     Did  you  see  mine  Uncle  ?   plague  o'  these  Barbarians, 
How   the  rogues  stick  in   my  teeth,  I   know  ye  are  angry, 
So  I  am  too,   monstrous  angry,  Gentlemen, 
I  am  angry,  that  I  choak  agen. 
You   hear  Armusia's  up,  honest  Arm  : 
Clapt  up  in  prison,   friends,  the  brave  Arm  : 
Here  are  fine  boys. 

Em.     We  hope  he  shall   not  stay  there. 

Py.     Stay,  no,  he  must  not  stay,   no  talk  of  staying, 
These  are  no  times  to  stay  ;    are  not  these  rascals  ? 
Speak,  I  beseech  ye  speak,  are  they  not  Rogues  ? 
Think  some  abominable  names — are  they  not  devils  ? 
But  the  devil's  a  great  deal  too  good   for  'em — fusty  villains. 

Ch.     They  are  a  kind  of  hounds. 

Py.     Hounds  were  their  fathers ; 
Old  blear-ey'd  bob-tail'd  hounds — Lord,  where's  my  Uncle  ? 

Soz.     But  what  shall  be  done,  Sir  ? 

Py.     Done  ? 

Soz.     Yes,  to  relieve  him  ; 
If  it  be  not  sudden  they  may  take  his  life  too. 

Py.     They  dare  as  soon  take  fire  and  swallow  it, 
Take  stakes  and  thrust  into  their  tails  for  glisters  : 
His  life,  why  'tis  a  thing  worth  all  the  Islands, 
And  they  know  will  be  rated  at  that  value  ; 
His  very  imprisonment  will  make  the  Town  stink, 
And  shake  and  stink,  I  have  physick  in  my  hand  for  'em 
Shall  give  the  goblins  such  a  purge — 

Enter  Ruy  Dias. 

Ped.     Your  Uncle. 

Ru.     I  hear  strange  news,  and  have  been  seeking  ye  j 
They  say  Armusia's  prisoner. 

Py.     'Tis  most  certain. 

Ru.     Upon  what  cause  ? 

Py.     He  has  deserv'd  too  much,  Sir ; 
The  old  heathen  policie  has  light  upon  him. 
And  paid  him  home. 

Ru.     A  most  unnoble  dealing. 

Py.     You  are  the  next,  if  you  can  carry  it  tamely, 

158 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

He  has  deserved  of  all. 

Ru.     I  must  confess  it, 
Of  me  so  nobly  too. 

Py.     I  am  glad  to  hear  it, 

You  have  a  time  now  to  make  good  your  confession, 
Your  faith  will  shew  but  cold  else,  and  for  fashion, 
Now  to  redeem  all,  now  to  thank  his  courtesie, 
Now  to  make  those  believe  that  held  you  backward, 
And  an  ill  instrument,  you  are  a  Gentleman, 
An  honest  man,  and  you  dare  love  your  Natio[n], 
Dare  stick  to  virtue,  though  she  be  opprest, 
And  for  her  own  fair  sake,  step  to  her  rescue  : 
If  you  live  ages,  Sir,  and  lose  this  hour, 
Not  now  redeem,  and  vindicate  your  honor 
Your  life  will  be  a  murmure,  and  no  man  in't. 

Ru.     I  thank  ye  nephew,  come  along  with  me  Gentlemen, 
We'll  make  'em  dancing  sport  immediately  : 
We  are  Masters  of  the  Fort  yet,  we  shall  see 
What  that  can  do. 

Py.     Let  it  but  spit  fire  finely, 
And  play  their  turrets,  and  their  painted  Palaces, 
A  frisking  round  or  two,  that  they  may  trip  it ; 
And  caper  in  the  air. 

Ru.     Come,  we'll  do  something 
Shall  make  'em  look  about,  we'll  send  'em  plums, 
If  they  be  not  too  hard  for  their  teeth. 

Py.     And  fine  Potatoes 

Rested  in  Gunpowder,  such  a  Banquet,  Sir 
Will  prepare  their  unmannerly  stomachs. 

Ru.     They  shall  see 
There  is  no  safe  retreat  in  villany  ; 
Come,  be  high-hearted  all. 

Omnes.      We  are  all  on  fire,  Sir.  [Exeunt. 

Enter  King  and  Governor. 

King.     I  am  ungrateful,  and  a  wretch,  perswade  me  not, 
Forgetful  of  the  mercy  he  shew'd  me, 
The  timely  noble  pity — why  should  I 
See  him  fast  bound  and  fetter'd,  whose  true  courtesie, 
Whose  manhood,  and  whose  mighty  hand  set  me  free  ? 

159 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS       ACT  v 

\Vhy  should   it  come   from   me  r    why   I  command   this  ? 
Shall   not  all   tongues  and   truths  call   me  unthankful  ? 

Gov.      Had    the  offence  been   thrown   on   you,   'tis  certain 
It   had   been   in   your  power,  and  your  discretion 
To  have  turnM   it   into  mercy,  and  forgiven   it, 
And  then   it  had  shew'd  a  virtuous  point  of  gratitude, 
Timely,  and  nobly  taken  ;    but  since  the  cause 
Concerns  the  honor  of  our  gods,  and   their  Title, 
And  so  transcends  your  power,  and  your  compassion, 
A   little  your  own  safety,   if  you  saw   it   too, 
If  your  too  fond   indulgence  did  not  dazle  you, 
It  cannot  now  admit  a  private  pitty  ; 
'Tis  in   their  Wills,  their  Mercies,  or  Revenges, 
And  these  revolts  in  you,  shew  mere  rebellions. 

King.     They  are  mild  and  pittiful. 

Gov.     To  those  repent. 

King.     Their  nature's  soft  and  tender. 

Gov.     To  true  hearts. 

That  feel  compunction  for  their  trespasses  : 
This  man  defies  'em  still,  threatens  destruction 
And  demolition  of  their  Arms  and  Worship, 
Spits  at  their  powers  ;    take  heed  ye  be  not  found,  Sir, 
And  mark'd  a  favourer  of  their  dishonor  ; 
They  use  no  common  justice. 

King.     What  shall  I  do 
To  deserve  of  this  man — 

Gov.     If  ye  more  bemoan  him, 
Or  mitigate  your  power  to  preserve  him, 
I'll  curse  ye  from  the  gods,  call  up  their  vengeance. 

Enter  Quisara  with  her  hands  bound,  Quisana,  Panura. 

And  fling  it  on  your  Land  and  you,  I  have  charge  [for't ;] 
I  hope  to  wrack  you  all. 

King.     What  ails  my  Sister  ? 

Why,  is  she  bound  ?   why  looks  she  so  distractedly  ? 
Who  does  do  this  ? 

Quisan.     We  did   it,   pardon   Sir, 
And  for  her  preservation — She  is  grown  wild, 
And  raving  on  the  strangers  love  and  honor, 
Sometimes  crying  out  help,  help,  they  will  torture  him, 

160 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

They  will  take  his  life,  they  will  murder  him  presently, 
If  we  had  not  prevented  violently 
Have  laid  hands  on  her  own  life. 

Gov.     These  are  tokens, 

The  gods  displeasure  is  gone  out,  be  quick, 
And  e'r  it  fall,  doe  something  to  appease  'em. 
You  know  the  sacrifice — I  am  glad  it  works  thus. 

Quisa.    How  low  and  base  thou  lookst  now,  that  wert  noble  ! 
No  figure  of  a  King,  methinks  shews  on  you. 
No  face  of  Majesty,  foul,  swarth   ingratitude 
Has  taken  off  thy  sweetness,  base  forgetfulness 
Of  mighty  benefits,  has  turned  thee  Devil : 
Thou  hast  persecuted  goodness,   innocence ; 
And  laid  a  hard  and  violent  hand  on  virtue, 
On  that  fair  virtue  that  should  teach  and  guide  us  ; 
Thou  hast  wrong'd  thine  own  preserver,  whose  least  merit, 
Pois'd  with  thy  main  Estate,  thou  canst  not  satisfie, 
Nay,  put  thy  life  in  too,  'twill  be  too  light  still  : 
What  hast  thou  done  ? 

Gov.     Goe  for  him  presently, 

And  once  more  we'll  try  if  we  can  win  him  fairly  : 
If  not,  let  nothing  she  says  hinder  ye,  or  stir  ye  ; 
She  speaks  distractedly — Do  that  the  gods  command  ye, 
Do  you  know  what  ye  say  Lady  ? 

Quisar.     I  could  curse  thee  too, 
Religion  and  severity  has  steel'd  thee, 

Has  turn'd  thy  heart  to  stone ;  thou  hast  made  the  gods  hard 
Against  their  sweet  and  patient  natures,  cruel  :  (too> 

None  of  ye  feel  what  bravery  ye  tread  on  ? 
What  innocence  ?    what  beauty  ? 

King.     Pray  be  patient. 

Quisar.     What  honourable  things  ye  cast  behind  [ye]  ? 
What  monuments  of  man  ? 

Enter  Armusia  and  Guard. 

King.     Once  more  Armusia^ 
Because  I  love  ye  tenderly  and  dearly, 
And  would  be  glad  to  win  ye  mine,  I  wish  ye, 
Even  from  my  heart  I  wish  and  wooe  ye — 

Ar.     What  Sir, 

B.-F.  VIII.  L  l6l 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS      ACT  v 

Take  heed  how  ye  perswade  me  falsly,  then  ye  hate  me  : 
Take   heed   how  ye   intrap   me. 

King.      I   advise   ye, 
And   tenderly  and   truly   I  advise  ye, 
Both   for  your  souls  health,  and  your  safety. 

Ar.      Stay, 

And   name  my  soul   no  more,  she  is  too  precious, 
Too  glorious  for  you[r]   flatteries,   too  secure  too. 

Gov.     Consider  the  reward,  Sir,  and  the  honor 
That  is  prepared,  the  glory  you  shall  grow  to. 

Arm.     They  are  not  to  be  consider'd   in   these  cases, 
Not  to  be  nam'd  when  souls  are  question'd  ; 
They  are  vain  and  flying  vapors — touch   my  life, 
'Tis  ready   for  ye,   put  it  to  what  test 
It  shall   please  ye,  I  am  patient ;    but  for  the  rest 
You  may  remove   Rocks  with  your  little  fingers, 
Or  blow  a  Mountain  out  o*  th'  way,  with   bellows, 
As  soon  as  stir  my  faith  ;    use  no  more  arguments. 

Gov.     We  must  use  tortures  then. 

Arm.     Your  worst  and  painfull'st 
I  am  joyful  to  accept. 

Gov.     You  must  the  sharpest, 
For  such  has  been  your  hate  against  our  Deities 
Delivered  openly,  your  threats  and  scornings, 
And  either  your  repentance  must  be  mighty, 
Which   is  your  free  conversion  to  our  customs, 
Or  equal  punishment  which  is  your  life,  Sir. 

Arm.      I  am  glad  I  have  it  for  ye,  take  it  Priest, 
And  all  the  miseries  that  shall  attend  it  : 
Let  the  gods  glut  themselves  with  Christian  bloud, 
It  will   be  ask'd  again,  and  so  far  followed, 
So  far  reveng'd,  and  with  such  holy  justice, 
Your  godi  of  gold  shall  melt  and  sink  before  it  ; 
Your  Altars  and  your  Temples  shake  to  nothing  ; 
And  you  false  worshipers,  blind  fools  of  ceremony, 
Shall  seek  for  holes  to  hide  your  heads,  and  fears  in, 
For  seas  to  swallow  you  from  this  destruction, 
Darkness  to  dwell  about  ye,  and  conceal  ye  ; 
Your  mothers  womb  agen — 

Gov.     Make  the  fires  ready, 

162 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

And  bring  the  several  tortures  out. 

Quisar.      Stand  fast,  Sir, 

And  fear  'em  not,  you  that  have  stept  so  nobly 
Into  this  pious  Trial,  start  not  now, 
Keep  on  your  way,  a  Virgin  will  assist  ye, 
A  Virgin  won  by  your  fair  constancy, 
And  glorying  that  she  is  won  so,  will  dye  by  ye  : 
I   have  touch'd  ye  every  way,  tried  ye  most  honest, 
Perfecl,  and  good,  chaste,  blushing  chaste,  and  temperate, 
Valiant,  without  vain-glory,  modest,  stayed, 
No  rage,  or  light  affeclion  ruling  in  you  : 
Indeed,  the  perfect  school  of  worth  I  find  ye, 
The  temple  of  true  honor. 

Arm.     Whether  will  she  ? 
What  do  you  infer  by  this  fair  argument,  Lady  ? 

Quisar.     Your  Faith,  and  your  Religion  must  be  like  ye, 
They  that  can  shew  you  these,  must  be  pure  mirrors, 
When  the  streams  flow  clear  and  fair,  what  are  the  fountains? 
I  do  embrace  your  faith,  Sir,  and  your  fortune  ; 
Go  on,  I  will  assist  ye,  I  feel  a  sparkle  here, 
A  lively  spark  that  kindles  my  affeclion, 
And  tells  me  it  will  rise  to  flames  of  glory  : 
Let  'em  put  on  their  angers,  suffer  nobly, 
Shew  me  the  way,  and  when  I  faint,  instruct  me  ; 
And  if  I  follow  not — 

Arm.     Oh   blessed  Lady, 

Since  thou  art  won,  let  me  begin  my  triumph, 
Come  clap  your  terrors  on. 

Quisar.     All  your  fell  tortures. 
For  there  is  nothing  he  shall  suffer,  brother, 
I  swear  by  a  new  faith,  which  is  most  sacred, 
And   I   will  keep  it  so,  but  I  will  follow  in, 
And  follow  to  a  scruple  of  affliction, 
In  spight  of  all  your  gods  without  prevention. 

Gov.     Death  !    she  amazes  me. 

King.     What  shall   be  done  now  ? 

Gov.     They  must  dye  both, 
And  suddenly,  they  will  corrupt  all  else  ; 
This  woman  makes  me  weary  of  my  mischief, 
She  shakes  me,  and  she  staggers  me,  go  in  Sir, 

L2  163 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS      ACT  v 

I'll  see  the  execution. 

Kin.     Not  so  suddain  : 
If  they  go,  all   my  Friends  and  Sisters  perish. 

Gov.      Wou'd  I  were  safe  at  home  agen. 

Enter  Messenger. 

Mes.     Arm,  arm,  Sir, 

Seek  for  defence,  the  Castle  plays  and  thunders, 
The  Town   Rocks,  and  the  houses  fly  i'  th'  air, 
The  people  dye  for  fear — Captain   Ruy  Dias, 
Has  made  an  oath   he  will   not  leave  a  stone  here  ; 
No,  not  the  memory,   here  has  stood  a  City, 
Unless  Armusia  be  deliver'd  fairly. 

King.    I  have  my  fears  :   what  can  our  gods  do  now  for  us  ? 

Gov.     Be   patient,  but  keep  him  still :    he   is  a  cure,  Sir, 
Against  both   Rage  and  Cannon  :    goe  and  fortifie, 
Call  in  the  Princess,  make  the  Palace  sure, 
And  let  'em  know  you  are  a  King  :    look  nobly  ; 
And  take  you[r]  courage  to  ye  ;    keep  close  the  prisoner, 
And  under  command,  we  are  betraid  else. 

Ar.     How  joyfully  I  goe  ! 

Quisar.     Take  my  heart  with  thee. 

Gov.     I  hold  a  Wolf  by  the  ear  now  : 
Fortune  free  me.  [Exeunt. 

Enter  four   Towns-men. 

1.  Heaven  bless  us, 

What  a  thund'ring's  here  !    what  fire-spitting  ! 

We  cannot  drink,  but  our  Cans  are  mauld  amongst  us. 

2.  I   wou'd  they  would  mall  our  scores  too  : 
Shame  o'  their  Guns,  I   thought  they  had  been   bird-pots, 
Or  great  Candle-cases,  how  devilishly  they  bounce, 
And  how  the  Bullets  borrow  a  piece  of  a  house  here, 
There  another,  and  mend  those  up  agen 

With  another  Parish  ;    here  flies  a  poudring-tub, 
The  meat  ready  rested,  and  there  a  barrel  pissing  vinegar, 
And  they  two  over-taking  the  top  of  a  high  Steeple, 
Newly  slic'd  off  for  a  Sallet. 

3.  A  vengeance  fire  'em. 

2.     Nay,  they  fire  fast  enough  ; 

164 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

You  need  not  help  'em. 

4.     Are  these  the  Portugal  Bulls — 
How  loud  they  bellow  ! 

2.     Their  horns  are  plaguy  strong,  they  push  down  Palaces 
They  toss  our  little  habitations  like  whelps, 
Like  grindle-tails,  with  their  heels  upward  ; 
All  the  windows  i'th  Town  dance  a  new  Trenchmore, 
'Tis  like  to  prove  a  blessed  age  for  Glasiers, 
I  met  a  hand,  and  a  Letter  in't,  in  great  haste, 
And  by  and  by,  a  single  leg  running  after  it, 
As  if  the  arm  had  forgot  part  of  his  errand, 
Heads  flie  like  Foot-balls  every  where. 

1.  What  shall  we  do? 

2.  I  care  not,  my  shop's  cancelPd, 

And  all  the  Pots,  and  earthen  Pans  in't  vanish't  : 
There  was  a  single  Bullet,  and  they  together  by  the  ears  ; 
You  would   have  thought   Tom   Tumbler  had  been  there, 
And  all  his  troop  of  devils. 

3.  Let's  to  the  King, 

And  get  this  Gentleman  deliver'd  handsomly : 

By  this  hand,  there's  no  walking  above  ground  else. 

2.     By  this  leg — let  me  swear  nimbly  by  it, 
For  I  know  not  how  long  I  shall  owe  it, 
If  I  were  out  o'th'  Town  once,  if  I  came  in  agen  to 
Fetch  my  breakfast,  I  will  give  'em  leave  to  cramm  me 
With  a  Portugal  Pudding  :    Come  ;    let's  doe  any  thing 
To  appease  this  thunder.  [Exeunt. 

Enter  Pyniero  and  Panura. 

Py.     Art  sure  it  was  that  blind  Priest  ? 

Pan.     Yes  most  certain, 

He  has  provok'd  all  this  ;    the  King  is  merciful, 
And  wond'rous  loving  ;    but  he  fires  him  on  still, 
And  when  he  cools,  enrages  him,  I  know  it  : 
Threatens  new  vengeance,  and  the  gods  fierce  justice 
When  he  but  looks  with  fair  eyes  on  Armusia, 
Will  lend  him  no  time  to  relent ;    my  royal  Mistriss, 
She  has  entertain'd  a  Christian  hope. 

Py.     Speak  truly. 

Pan.     Nay,  'tis  most  true,  but  Lord  !    how  he  lies  at  her, 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS      ACT  v 

And  threatens  her,  and  flatters  her,  and  damns  her, 

And   I   fear,   if  not  speedily   prevented, 

If  she  continue  stout,   both  shall   be  executed, 

Py.  I'll  kiss  thee  for  this  news,  nay  more  Panura, 
If  thou  wilt  give  me  leave  I'll  get  thee  with  Christian, 
The  best  way  to  convert  thee. 

Pan.     Make  me  believe  so  ? 

Py.     I  will  y'faith.     But  which  way  cam'st  thou  hither? 
The  Pallace  is  close  guarded,  and   barricado'd. 

Pan.     I    came   through  a  private  vault,  which  few  there 
It  rises  in  a  Temple  not  far  hence,  (know  of; 

Close  by  the  Castle  here. 

Py.     How — To  what  end  ? 

Pan.     A  good  one  : 

To  give  ye  knowledge  of  my  new-born  Mistriss  ; 
And   in  what  doubt  Armusia  stands, 
Think  any  present  means,  or  hope  to  stop  'em 
From  their  fell  ends :    the  Princes  are  come  in  too, 
And  they  are  harden'd  also. 

Py.     The  damn'd  Priest — 

Pan.     Sure  he's  a  cruel  man,  methinks  Religion 
Should  teach  more  temperate  Lessons. 

Py.     He  the  fire-brand  ? 

He  dare  to  touch  at  such  fair  lives  as  theirs  are  ? 
Well  Prophet,  I  shall  prophesie,  I  shall  catch  ye, 
When  all  your  Prophecies  will  not  redeem  ye  r 
Wilt  thou  do  one  thing  bravely  ? 

Pa.     Any  good  I  am  able.  (virtuous, 

Py.     And  by  thine  own  white  hand,  I'll  swear  thou  art 
And  a  brave  wench,  durst  thou  but  guide  me  presently, 
Through  the  same  vault  thou  cam'st,  into  the  Pallace 
And  those  I  shall  appoint,  such  as  I  think  fit. 

Pa.     Yes  I  will  do  it,  and  suddainly,  and  truly. 

Py.     I   wou'd  fain  behold  this  Prophet. 

Pa.     Now  I  have  ye  : 

And  shall  bring  ye  where  ye  shall  behold  him, 
Alone  too,  and  unfurnish'd  of  defences  : 
That  shall  be  my  care  ;    but  you  must  not  betray  me. 

Py.     Dost  thou  think  we  are  so  base,  such  slaves,  rogues  ? 

Pa.     I  do  not  : 

1 66 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

And  you  shall  see  how  fairly  I'll  work  for  ye. 

Py.     I  must  needs  steal  that  Priest, 
Steal  him,  and  hang  him. 

Pa.     Do  any  thing  to  remove  his  mischief,  strangle  him — 

Py.      Come  prethee  love. 

Pa.     You'll  offer  me  no  foul  play  ? 
The  Vault  is  dark. 

Py.     'Twas  well  remember'd. 

Pa.     And  ye  may — 
But  I  hold  ye  honest. 

Py.     Honest  enough  I  warrant  thee.  (place, 

Pa.     I  am  but  a  poor  weak  wench  ;   and  what  with  the 
And  your  perswasions  Sir — but  I  hope  you  will  not ; 
You  know  we  are  often  cozen'd. 

Py.     If  thou  dost  fear  me, 
Why  dost  thou  put  me  in   mind  ? 

Pa.     To  let  you  know  Sir, 

Though  it  be  in  your  power,  and  things  fitting  to  it, 
Yet  a  true  Gent — 

Py.     I  know  what  he'll  do  : 
Come  and  remember  me,  and  I'll  answer  thee, 
I'll  answer  thee  to  the  full ;    we'll  call  at  th'  Castle, 
And  then  my  good  guide,  do  thy  Will ;    sha't  find  me 
A  very  traclable  man.! 

Pa.     I  hope  I  shall  Sir.  [Exeunt. 

Enter  Bakam,  Syana,  and  Soldiers. 

Bak.     Let  my  men  guard  the  Gates. 

Syan.     And  mine  the  Temple, 
For  fear  the  honor  of  our  gods  should  suffer, 
And  on  your  lives  be  watchful. 

Ba.     And  be  valiant ; 

And  let's  see,  if  these  Portugal*  dare  enter ; 
What  their  high  hearts  dare  do  :    Let's  see  how  readily, 
The  great  Ruy  Dias  will  redeem  his  Countrey-men  ; 
He  speaks  proud  words,  and  threatens. 

Sy.     He  is  approv'd,  Sir, 
And  will  put  fair  for  what  he  promises  ; 
I  could  wish  friendlier  terms, 
Yet  for  our  liberties  and  for  our  gods, 

167 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS       ACT  v 

We  are   bound   in   our  best  service 
Even   in   the   hazard   of  our   lives. 

Enter   the  King  above. 

A7>/;r.      Come  up   Princes, 

And   give  your  counsels,  and  your   helps  :    the   Fort  still 
Plays  fearfully   upon   us,   beats  our  buildings, 
And   turns  our  people  wild   with   fears. 

Ba.     Send   for  the  prisoner, 
And  give  us  leave  to  argue.  [Exit  Ba.  and  Sy.  then, 

Enter  Ruy  Dias,  Emanuel,   Christoph.   Pedro,  with  Sold. 

Ru.     Come  on  nobly, 
And  let  the  Fort  play  still,   we  are 
Strong  enough   to  look  upon  'em, 
And   return  at  pleasure  ;    it   may 
Be  on  our  view  they  will   return   him. 

Chr.     We  will   return   'em  such  thanks  else, 
Shall  make  'em  scratch  where  it  itches  not. 

Em.     How  the  people  stare, 

And  some  cry,  some  pray,  and  some  curse  heartily  : 
But  it  is  the  King — 

Enter  Syana,  Bakam,   Quisara,  Armusia,  with 

Soldiers  above. 

Ruy.     I  cannot  blame  their  wisdoms. 
They  are  all  above,  Armusia  chained  and  bound  too  ? 
Oh,  these  are  tha[n]kful  Squires. 

Ba.      Hear  us  Ruy  Di\_a\s, 

Be  wise  and   hear  us,  and  give  speedy  answer, 
Command  thy  Cannon   presently  to  cease, 
No  more  to  trouble  the  afflicted  people, 
Or  suddainly  Armusia's  head  goes  off; 
As  suddainly  as  said. 

Em.     Stay  Sir,  be  moderate. 

Arm.      Do  nothing  that's  dishonourable  Ruy  Dyas 
Let  not  the  fear  of  me,  master  thy  valour  ; 
Pursue  'em  still,  they  are  base  malicious  people. 

King.     Friend,  be  not  desperate. 

Ar.     I  scorn  your  courtesies  ; 

168 


Sc.  i         THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 

Strike  when  you  dare,  a  fair  arm  guide  the  Gunner, 
And  may  he  let  flie  still  with  fortune  :    friend, 
Do  me  the  honor  of  a  Soldiers  funerals, 
The  last  fair  Christian  right,  see  me  i'th'  ground, 
And  let  the  Palace  burn   first,  then  the  Temples, 
And  on  their  scorn'd  gods,  creel  my  monument : 
Touch  not  the   Princess,  as  you  are  a  Soldier. 

Quisar.      Which  way  you  goe,  Sir, 
I   must  follow  necessary. 
One  life,  and  one  death. 

King.     Will  you  take  a  truce  yet  ? 

Enter  Pyniero,  Soza,  and  Soldiers,  with  the  Governor. 

Py.     No,  no,  go  on  : 
Look  here,  your  god,  your  prophet. 

King.      How  came  he  taken  ? 

Py.     I  conjur'd  for  him,   King. 
I  am  a  sure  Curr  at  an  old  blind  Prophet. 
I'll  haunt  ye  such  a  false  knave  admirably, 
A  terrier  I  ;    I  eartht  him,  and  then  snapt  him. 

Soz.     Saving  the  reverence  of  your  grace,  we  stole  him, 
E'en  out  of  the  next  chamber  to  ye. 

Py.     Come,  come,   begin   King, 
Begin  this  bloudy  matter  when  you  dare  ; 
And  yet  I  scorn  my  sword  should  touch  the  rascal, 
I'll  tear  him  thus  before  ye.     Ha  ? 
What  art  thou  ?  (Pulls  his  Beard  and 

King.      How's  this  !  \       hair  off. 

Art  thou  a  Prophet  ? 

Ru.     Come  down  Princes. 

King.     We  are  abus'd — 
Oh   rny  most  dear  Armusia — 
Off  with  his  chains.     And  now  my  noble  Sister, 
Rejoyce  with  me,  I  know  ye  are  pleas'd  as  I  am. 

Py.     This  is  a  precious  Prophet.     Why  Don   Governor, 
What  make  you  here,  how  long  have  you  taken  Orders  ? 

Ruy.     Why  what  a  wretch 
Art  thou  to  work  this  mischief? 
To  assume  this  holy  shape  to  ruine  honor, 
Honor  and  chastity  ? 

169 


THE  ISLAND   PRINCESS      ACT  v 


King,   and  all  Jrom   above. 

Gov.      I   had    paid   you   all, 
But   fortune   plaid   the  slut.      Come, 
Give  me   my   doom. 

King.      I   cannot   speak   for   wonder. 

Gov.      Nay,  'tis  I  Sir, 
And   here  I  stay  your  sentence. 

King.     Take   her  friend, 

You   have   half  pcrswaded  me  to   be  a   Christian, 
And   with   her  all   the  joyes,  and  all  the   blessings. 
Why  what  dream  have  we  dwelt  in  ? 

Ru.     All  peace  to  ye, 

And  all  the  happiness  of  heart  dwell  with  ye, 
Children  as  sweet  and  noble  as  their  Parents. 

Py.     And   Kings  at  least. 

Ar.     Good  Sir,  forget  my  rashness. 
And  noble  Princessfe],  for  I  was  once  angry, 
And   out  of  that,  might  utter  some  distemper, 
Think  not  'tis  my  nature. 

Sya.      Your  joy  is  ours,  Sir. 
And  nothing  we  find  in  ye,  but  most  noble. 

King.     To  prison  with  this  dog,  there  let  him  houl, 
And   if  he  can   repent,  sigh  out  his  villanies  : 
His  Island  we  shall  seize  into  our  hands, 
His  Father  and  himself  have  both  usurp'd  it, 
And  kept  it  by  oppression  ;    the  Town  and  Castle, 
In  which  I  lay  my  self  most  miserable, 
Till  my  most  honourable  friend  redeem'd  me, 
Signior  Pyniero^  I  bestow  on  you, 
The  rest  of  next  command   upon   these   Gentlemen, 
Upon  ye,  all   my  love. 

Arm.     Oh   brave  Ruy  Dias, 

You  have  started  now  beyond  me.     I   must  thank  ye, 
And  thank  ye  for  my  life,  my  wife  and  honor. 

Ruy.      I   am  glad  I  had  her  for  you,  Sir. 

King.     Come  Princes, 

Come  Friends  and  Lovers  all,  come  noble  Gentlemen, 
No  more  Guns  now,  nor  hates,  but  joyes  and  triumphs, 
An  universal  gladness  fly  about   us  : 
And  know  however  subtle  men  dare  cast, 
And  promise  wrack,  the  gods  give  peace  at  last.        [Exeunt. 

170 


THE 

NOBLE   GENTLEMAN 

A    Comedy. 


The  Persons  represented  in  the  Play. 


Monsieur  Marine,  the  Noble  Gent. 

but  none  of  the  ivisest. 
Jaques,  an  old  servant  to  Marine'* 

family. 
Clerimont,  a  Gull,  Cosin  to  Monsieur 

Marine. 
A  Gentleman,  Servant  to  Marine'* 


wife. 


Lo[n]gueville,l  t<wo  Courtiers  that  plot 

Beaufort,         J      to  abuse  Marine. 

Shattillion,  a  Lord,  mad  for  Love. 

Doftor. 

Page. 

Gentlemen. 

Servants. 

Duke. 


WOMEN. 


Marine'*  Wife,  a  nvitty  wanton. 
Clerimont's  Wife,  a  simple  countrey 
Gentlewoman. 


Shattillion'*     Mistriss,     a     virtuous 

Virgin. 
Maria,  Servant  to  Marine'*  wife. 


The  Scene  France. 


PROLOGUE. 

WIT  is  become  an  Antick,  and  puts  on 
As  many  shapes  of  variation, 
To  court  the  times  applause,  as  the  times  dare, 
Change  several  fashions,  nothing  is  thought  rare 
Which  is  not  new,  and  followed,  yet  we  know 
That  what  was  worn  some  twenty  years  agoe, 
Comes  into  grace  again,  and  we  pursue 
That  custom,  by  presenting  to  your  view 
A  Play  in  fashion  then,  not  doubting  now 
But  'twill  appear  the  same,  if  you  allow 
Worth  to  their  noble  memory,  whose  name, 
Beyond  all  power  of  death,  live  in  their  fame. 


171 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  i 
Aftus   Primus.      Sctena   Prima. 

Enter   Gentleman   a\n\d  Jaques. 

Gent.    "\  T  7  Hat   happiness  waits  on   the  life  at   Court, 

VV      What  dear  content,  greatness,  delight  and  ease! 
What  ever-springing  hopes,  what  tides  of  honor  ! 
That   raise   their   fortunes  to   the  height  of"  wishes  ! 
What  can   be  more  in   man,  what   more  in   nature, 
Than   to  be  great  and   fear'd  ?    A  Courtier, 
A  noble  Courtier,  'Tis  a  name  that  draws 
Wonder  and  duty  from  all  eyes  and  knees. 

yaq.     And  so  your   Worships  Land  within  the  Walls, 
Where  you  shall   have  it  all  inclos'd,  and  sure. 

Gent.     Peace  knave  ;  dull  creature,  bred  of  sweat  and  smoke, 
These  mysteries  are  far  above  thy  faith  : 
But  thou  shalt  see — 

Jag.     And  then  I  shall  believe  ; 
Your  fair  revenues,  turn'd  into  fair  suits  ; 
I  shall  believe  your  Tenant's   bruis'd  and  rent 
Under  the  weight  of  Coaches,  all  your  state 
Drawn  through  the  streets  in  triumph,  suits  for  places 
Plied  with  a  Mine  of  Gold,  and   being  got 
Fed  with  a  great  stream.     I  shall  believe  all  this. 

Gent.     You  shall  believe,  and  know  me  glorious. 
Cosin,  good  day  and  health. 

Enter  Cosin. 

Cosin.     The  same  to  you,  Sir, 
And  more,  without  my  wishes,  could  you  know 
What  calm  content  dwels  in  a  private  house  : 
Yet  look  into  your  self,   retire  :    this  place 
Of  promises,  and  protestations,  fits 
Minds  only  bent   [t]o  ruin,  you  should  know  this, 
You  have  their  language  perfecl,  you  have  tutors 
I  do  not  doubt,  sufficient  :    but  beware. 

Gent.     You  are  merry  Cosin  : 

Cosin.     Yet  your  patience, 
You  shall  learn  that  too,  but  not  like  it  self, 
Where  it  is  held  a  virtue  ;    tell  me  Sir, 

172 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Have  you  cast  up  your  State,  rated  your  Land, 

And  find   it  able  to  endure  the  change 

Of  time  and  fashion  ?    is  it  always  harvest  ? 

Always  vintage  ?    have  you  Ships  at  Sea, 

To  bring  you  Gold  and  Stone  from  rich  Peru, 

Monthly  returning  Treasure  ?    doth  the  King 

Open  his  large  Exchequer  to  your  hands 

And  bid  ye  be  a  great  man  ?    can  your  wife 

Coin  off  her  beauty  ?    or  the  week  allow 

Suits  to  each  day  ?    and  know  no  ebb  in  honor  ? 

If  these  be  possible,  and  can  hold  out, 

Then  be  a  Courtier  still,  and  still  be  wasting. 

Gent.     Cosin,  pray  give  me  leave  : 

Cos.     I   have  done. 

Gent.     I  could  requite  your  gall,  and  in  a  strain 
As  bitter,  and  as  full  of  Rubarb,  preach 
Against  your  Countrey  life,  but  'tis  below  me 
And  only  subject  to  my  pitty,  know 
The  eminent  Court,  to  them  that  can  be  wise, 
And  fasten  on  her  blessings,  is  a  Sun 
That  draws  men  up  from  course  and  earthly  Being, 
I  mean  these  men  of  merit  that  have  power 
And  reason  to  make  good  her  benefits, 
Learns  them  a  manly  boldness,  gives  their  tongues 
Sweetness  of  Language,  makes  them  apt  to  please  ; 
Files  of  all  rudeness,  and  uncivil  haviour, 
Shews  them  as  neat  in  carriage,  as  in  cloaths  ; 
Cosin,  have  you  ever  seen  the  Court  ? 

Cos.     No  Sir, 
Nor  am  I  yet  in  travel  with  that  longing. 

Gent.     Oh  the  state  and  greatness  of  that  place 
Where  men  are  found 
Only  to  give  the  first  creation  glory  ! 
Those  are  the  models  of  the  antient  world 
Left  like  the  Roman  Statues  to  stir  up 
Our  following  hopes,  the  place  it  self  puts  on 
The  brow  of  Majesty,  and  flings  her  lustre 
Like  the  air  newly  light'ned  ;    Form,  and   Order, 
Are  only  there  themselves,  unforc'd,  and  sound, 
As  they  were  first  created  to  this  place. 

173 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  i 

Cos.     You  nobly  came,   but  will  goe  from  thence  base. 

Gent.      'Twas  very  pretty,  and  a  good   conceit  ; 
You  have  a  wit  good   Cosin,  I  do  joy   in't, 
Keep  it  for  Court  :    but  to  my  self  again, 
When   I   have  view'd   these  pieces,   turn'd  these  eyes, 
And   with  some  taste  of  superstition, 
Look'd  on   the  wealth   of  Nature,  the  fair  dames, 
Beauties,  that  light  the  Court,  and   make  it  shew 
Like  a  fair  heaven,  in  a  frosty  night  : 
And   'mongst  these  mine,  not  poorest,   'tis  for  tongues 
Of  blessed  Poets,  such  as  Orpheus  was, 
To  -give  their  worth  and  praises  ;    Oh  dear  Cosin  : 
You  have  a  wife,  and  fair,   bring  her  hither, 
Let  her  not  live  to  be  the  Mistriss  of  a  Farmers  heir 
And   be  confin'd  ever  to  a  searge, 
Far  courser  than  my  horse-cloth. 
Let  her  have  Velvets,  Tiffinies,  Jewels,  Pearls, 
A  Coach,  an  Usher,  and  her  two  Lacquies, 
And  I  will  send  my  wife  to  give  her  rules, 
And  read  the  rudiments  of  Court  to  her. 

Cos.     Sir,  I  had  rather  send  her  to  Virginia 
To  help  to  propagate  the  English  Nation. 

Enter  Servant. 

Gent.     Sirrah,  how  slept  your  Mistriss,  and  what  visitants 
Are  to  pay  service  ? 

Serv.     As  I  came  out, 
Two  Counts  were  newly  ent'red. 

Gent.      This  is  greatness, 
But  few  such  servants  wait  a  Countrey  beauty. 

Cos.     They  are  the  more  to  thank  their  modesty, 
God  keep  my  Wife,  and  all  my  Issue  Female 
From  such  uprisings. 

Enter  a  Doftor. 

Gent.     What  ?    my  learned  Doclor  ? 
You  will  be  welcome,  give  her  health  and  youth 
And  I  will  give  you  gold.  [Exit  Doftor. 

Cosin,  how  savors  this  ?    is  it  not  sweet 
And  very  great,  tasts  it  not  of  Nobleness  ? 

'74 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Cos.     Faith  Sir,  my  pallat  is  too  dull  and  lazie 
I  cannot  taste  it,  'tis  not  for  my  relish, 
But  be  so  still. 

Since  your  own  misery  must  first  reclaim  ye, 
To  which  I  leave  you,  Sir, 
If  you  will,  yet  be  happy,  leave  the  humor 
And  base  subjeclion  to  your  Wife,  be  wise, 
And  let  her  know  with  speed,  you  are  her  Husband, 
I  shall  be  glad  to  hear  it. 
My  horse  is  sent  for.  [Exit. 

Gent.     Even  such  another  countrey  thing  as  this 
Was  I,  such  a  piece  of  dirt,  so  heavy, 
So  provident  to  heap  up  ignorance, 
And  be  an  ass  :    such  musty  cloaths  wore  I, 
So  old  and  thred-bare,  I  do  yet  remember 
Divers  young  Gallants  lighting  at  my  Gate, 
To  see  my  honoured   Wife,  have  offered  pence, 
And  bid  me  walk  their  horses,  such  a  slave 
Was  I  in  shew  then  :    but  my  eyes  are  open'd. 

Enter  Gent.   Wife. 

Many  sweet  morrows  to  my  worthy  Wife. 

Wife.     'Tis  well,  and  aptly  given,  as  much  for  you, 
But  to  my  present  business,  which  is  money — 

Gent.     Lady,  I   have  none  left.  (low, 

Wife.     I  hope  you  dare  not  say  so,  nor  imagine  so  base  and 
A  thought  :    I  have  none  left  ? 
Are  these  words  fitting  for  a  man  of  worth, 
And  one  of  your  full  credit  ?    Do  you  know 
The  place  you  live  in  ?    me  ?    and  what  I  labour 
For,  you  ?    and  your  advancement  ? 

Gent.     Yes  my  dearest. 

Wife.     And  do  you  pop  me  off  with  this  slight  answer, 
In  troth  I  have  none  left  ?    in  troth  you  must  have ; 
Nay  stare  not,  'tis  most  true,  send  speedily 
To  all  that  love  you,  let  your  people  flye 
Like  thunder,  through  the  City, 
And  not  return  under  five  thousand  Crowns. 
Try  all,  take  all,  let  not  a  [wealthy]  Merchant  be  untempted 
Or  any  one  that  hath  the  name  of  Money, 

175 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  i 

Take  up  at  any   Use,  give  Band,  or  Land, 

Or  mighty  Statutes,  able   by   their  strength, 

To  tye  up  Sampson^  were  he  now   alive, 

There  must   be  money  gotten  ;    for   be  perswaded, 

If  we  fall  now,  or  be  but  seen   to  shrink, 

Under  our  fair   beginnings,   'tis  our  ruin, 

And  then  good  night  to  all,  (but  our  disgrace) 

Farewel  the  hope  of  coming  happiness, 

And  all  the  aims  we  levied  at  so  long. 

Are  ye  not  mov'd  at  this  ?    no  sense  of  want, 

Towards  your  self  yet  breeding  ?    be  old, 

And  common  ;    jaded  to  the  eyes 

Of  Grooms,  and   Pages,  Chamber-maids,  and  Guarders, 

And   when  you  have  done,  put  your  poor  house  in  order 

And  hang  your  self,  for  such  must  be  the  end 

Of  him  that  willingly  forsakes  his  hopes 

And  hath  a  joy  to  tumble  to  his  ruin. 

All  that  I  say  is  certain,   if  ye  fail 

Do  not   [impute]   me  with  it,   I  am  clear. 

Gent.     Now   heaven  forbid  I  should   do  wrong  to  you 
My  dearest  Wife,  and   Madam  ;    yet  give  leave 
To  your  poor  creature  to  unfold  himself. 
You  know  my  debts  are  many  more  than  means, 
My  bands  not  taken  in,  my  friends  at  home 
Drawn  dry  with  these  expences,  my  poor  Tenants 
More  full  of  want  than  we,  then  what  new  course 
Can  I   beget,  to  raise  those  crowns  by  ?    speak, 
And  I  shall  execute. 

Wife,      Pray  tell  me  true, 
Have  you  not  Land  in  the  Countrey  ? 

Gent.     Pardon  me,   I   had  forgot  it. 

Wife.      Sir,  you  must  remember  it, 
There  is  no  remedy,  this  Land  must  be, 
In  Paris  e'r  to  morrow  night. 

Gent.     It  shall,  let  me  consider,  some  300  acres 
Will  serve  the  turn. 

Wife.     'Twill  furnish  at  all  points, 
Now  you  speak  like  your  self,  and  know  like  him, 
That  means  to  be  a  man,  suspect  no  less 
For  the  return  will  give  ye  five  for  one, 

176 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

You  shall  be  great  to  morrow,  I  have  said  it. 

Farewel,  and  see  this  business  be  a-foot, 

With  expedition.  [Exit  Wife. 

Gent.     Health,  all  joy,  and  honor 
Wait  on  my  lovely  Wife.    What  ?    Jaquesy  Jaques. 

Enter  Jaques. 

Jaq.     Sir,  did  you  call  ? 

Gent.     I  did  so,  hie  thee  Jaques. 

Down  to  the  Bank,  and  there  to  some  good  Merchant 
(Conceive  me  well,  good  Jaques^  and  be  private) 
Offer  300  acres  of  my  Land  : 
Say  it  is  choice  and  fertile,  ask  upon  it 
Five  thousand  Crowns,  this  is  the  business 
I  must  employ  thee  in,  be  wise  and  speedy. 

Jaq.     Sir,  do  not  do  this. 

Gent.     Knave,  I  must  have  money. 

Jaq.     If  you  have  money  thus,  your  knave  must  tell  ye 
You  will  not  have  a  foot  of  Land  left,  be  more  wary, 
And  more  friend  to  your  self,  this  honest  Land 
Your  Worship  has  discarded,  has  been  true, 
And  done  you  loyal  service. 

Gent.     Gentle  Jaques^ 
You  have  a  merry  wit,  employ  it  well 
About  the  business  you  have  now  in  hand. 
When  ye  come  back,  enquire  me  in  the  Presence, 
If  not  in  the  Tennis-Court,  or  at  my  house.  [Exit. 

Jaq.     If  this  vain  hold,  I  know  where  to  enquire  ye. 
Five  thousand  Crowns  !    this,  with  good  husbandry, 
May  hold  a  month  out,  then  5000  more, 
And  more  Land  a  bleeding  for't,  as  many  more, 
And  more  Land  laid  aside.     God  and  St.  Dennis 
Keep  honest  minded  young  men  batchelors. 
'Tis  strange,  my  Master  should  be  yet  so  young 
A  puppy,  that  he  cannot  see  his  fall 
And  got  so  near  the  Sun.     I'll  to  his  Cosin. 
And  once  more  tell  him  on't,  if  he  fail, 
Then  to  my  Mortgage,  next  unto  my  sale.  [Exit. 

B.-F.  vin.  M  177 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  i 

Enter  Longovile,   Bcwford,   and  the   Servant. 

Serv.      Gentlemen,    hold   on   discourse  a   while, 

I  shall   return   with   knowledge   how  and   where 

We  shall   have   best  access  unto  my   Mistriss 

To   tender  your  devotions.  [Exit. 

Long.     Be  it  so  : 

Now   to  our   first  discourse. 
Ecw .     I   prethee  peace  ; 

Thou  canst  not   be  so  bad,  or  make  me  know 

Such   things  are  living,  do  not  give  thy  self 

So  common  and  so  idle,  so  open  vile, 

So  great  a  wronger  of  thy  worth,  so  low, 

I  cannot,  nor  I  must  not  credit  thee. 

Lon.      Now  by  this  light  I  am  a  whoremaster, 

An  open,  and  an  excellent  whormaster, 

And  take  a  special  glory  that  I  am  so  : 

I   thank   my  Stars  I  am  a  whoremaster, 

And  such  a  one  as  dare  be  known  and  seen, 

And  pointed  at  to  be  a  noble  wencher. 

Bew.     Do  not  let  all  ears  hear  this,   hark  [y]e  Sir, 

I  am  my  self  a  whoremaster,   I  am 

Believe  it  Sir  (in  private   be  it  spoken) 

I  love  a  whore  directly,  most  men  are  wenchers, 

And  have  profest  the  Science,   few  men 
That  look  upon  ye  now,  but  whoremasters, 

Or  have  a  full  desire  to  be  so. 
Lon.     This  is  noble. 

Bew.     It  is  without  all  question,  being  private, 
And  held  as  needful  as  intelligence, 
But  being  once  discovered,  blown  abroad, 
And  known  to  common  senses,  'tis  no  more 
Than  geometrical  rules  in  Carpenters, 
That  only  know  some  measure  of  an   Art, 
But  are  not  grounded  :    be  no  more  deceived, 
I  have  a  conscience  to  reclaim  you,  Sir. 
Mistake  me  not  :    I  do  not  bid  you  leave  your  whore 
Or  less  to  love  her  ;    forbid  it, 
I  should  be  such  a  villain   to  my  friend, 
Or  so  unnatural  :    'twas  never  harbor'd   here, 

178 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Learn  to  be  secret  first,  then  strike  your  Deer. 

Lon.     Your  fair  instructions,  Mo\ji\sieur,  I  shall  learn. 

Bew.     And  you  shall  have  them  ;    I  desire  your  care. 

Lon.     They  are  your  servants. 

Bew .     You  must  not  love. 

Lon.     How  Sir  ? 

Bew .     I  mean  a  Lady,  there's  danger. 
She  hath  an  Usher  and  a  Waiting  Gentlewoman, 
A  Page,  a  Coach-man,  these  are  fee'd  and  fee'd 
And  yet  for  all  that  will  be  prating. 

Lon.     So. 

Bew.     You  understand  me  Sir,  they  will  discover't, 
And  there  is  a  loss  of  credit,  Table-talk 
Will  be  the  end  of  this,  or  worse,  than  that  ; 
Will  this  be  worthy  of  a  Gentleman  ? 

Long.      Proceed  good  Sir. 

Bew.     Next  leave  your  City  Dame  ; 
The  best  of  that  Tribe,  are  most  meerly  coy, 
Or  most  extreamly  foolish,  both  which  vices 
Are  no  great  stirrers  up,  unless  in   Husbands 
That  owe  this  Cattle,  fearing  her  that's  coy 
To  be  but  seeming,  her  that's  fool  too  forward. 

Lon.      This  is  the  rarest  fellow,  and  the  soundest, 
I  mean  in  knowledge,  that  e'r  wore  a  Codpiece, 
H'as  found  oul  that  will  pass  all  Italy, 
All  France  and  England ;    to  their  shames  I  speak, 
And  to  the  griefs  of  all  their  Gentlemen, 
The  noble  Theory  of  Luxury. 

Bew.     Your  patience, 
And  I  will  lay  before  your  eyes  a  course 
That  I  my  self  found  out,  'tis  excellent, 
Easie,  and  full  of  freedome. 

Long.     O  good  Sir, 
You  rack  me  till  I  know  it. 

Bew.     This  it  is, 

When  your  desire  is  up,  your  blood  well  heated 
And  apt  for  sweet  encounter,  chuse  the  night, 
And  with  the  night  your  Wench,  the  streets  have  store, 
There  seize  upon  her,  get  her  to  your  chamber, 
Give  her  a  cardecew,  'tis  royal  payment ; 

M  2  179 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  i 

When  ye  are  dull,  dismiss  her,   no  man   knows, 
Nor  she  her  self,  who  hath  encountred   her. 

Lon.     O   but  their  faces. 

Bew.     Nere  talke  of  faces  : 
The  night  allows  her  equal  with  a  Dutchess, 
Imagination  doth  all  think  her  fair, 

O  ' 

And  great,  clapt  in   Velvet,  she  is  so, 
Sir,  I  have  tryed  those,  and  do  find   it  certain 
It  never  failes  me,  'tis  but   twelve  nights  since 
My  last  experience. 

Lon.     O  my  meiching  Varlet,  I'll  fit  ye  as  I  live. 
'Tis  excellent,  I'll  be  your  Scholar  Sir. 

Enter  Lady  and  Servant. 

Wife.     You  are  fairly  welcome  both  :    troth  Gentlemen 
You  have  been  strangers,  I  could  chide  you  for't, 
And  taxe  ye  with  unkindness,  What's  the  news  ? 
The  Town  was  never  empty  of  some  novelty  ; 
Servant,  What's  your  intelligence  ? 

Ser.     Faith  nothing. 
I   have  not  heard  of  any  worth  relating. 

Bew.     Nor  I  sweet  Lady. 

Lon.     Then  give  me  attention, 
Monsieur  Shattillions  mad. 

Wife.     Mad  ? 

Lon.     Mad  as  May-butter, 
And  which  is  more,  mad  for  a  Wench. 

Lady.     'Tis  strange,  and  full  of  pity. 

Lon.     All  that  comes  near  him 
He  thinks  are  come  of  purpose  to  betray  him, 
Being  full  of  strange  conceit  :    the  wench  he  loved 
Stood  very  near  the  Crown. 

Lady.     Alass  good  Monsieur  ; 
A'  was  a  proper  man,  and  fair  demean'd, 
A  Person  worthy  of  a  better  temper. 

Lon.     He  is  strong  opinion'd  that  the  Wench  he  lov'd 
Remains  close  prisoner  by  the  Kings  command  : 
Fearing  her  title,  when  the  poor  grieved  Gentlewoman 
Follows  him  much  lamenting,  and  much  loving 
In  hope  to  make  him  well,  he  knows  her  not, 

1 80 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Nor  any  else  that  comes  to  visit  him. 

Lady.     Let's  walk  in  Gentlemen,  and  there  discourse 
His  further  miseries,  you  shall  stay  dinner, 
In  truth  you  must  obey. 

Om.     We  are  your  servants.  [Exeunt. 

Enter  Couzen. 

Cous.     There's  no  good  to  be  done,  no  cure  to  be  wrought 
Upon  my  desperate  Kinsman  :    I'll  to  horse 
And  leave  him  to  the  fools  whip,  misery. 
I  shall  recover  twenty  miles  this  night, 
My  horse  stands  ready,  I'll  away  with  speed. 

Enter  Shattillion. 

Shat.     Sir,  may  I  crave  your  name  ? 

Cous.     Yes  Sir  you  may  : 
My  name  is   Cleremont. 

Shat.     'Tis  well,  your  fadlion  ? 
What  party  knit  you  with  ? 

Cous.     I  know  no  parties, 
Nor  no  Faclions,  Sir. 

Shat.     Then  weare  this  Cross  of  white  : 
And  where  you  see  the  like  they  are  my  friends, 
Observe  them  well,  the  time  is  dangerous. 

Cous.     Sir  keep  your  cross,  I'll  weare  none,  sure  this  fellow 
Is  much  beside  himself,  grown  mad. 

Shat.     A  word  Sir  ; 

You  can  pick  nothing  out  of  this,  this  cross 
Is  nothing  but  a  cross,  a  very  cross, 
Plain,  without  spell,  or  witchcraft,  search  it, 
You  may  suspect,  and  well,  there's  poyson  in't, 
Powder,  or  wild-fire,  but  'tis  nothing  so. 

Cous.     I  do  believe  you,  Sir,  'tis  a  plain  cross. 

Shat.     Then  do  your  worst,  I  care  not,  tell  the  King, 
Let  him  know  all  this,  as  I  am  sure  he  shall  ; 
When  you  have  spit  your  venome,  then  will  I 
Stand  up  a  faithful,  and  a  loyal  Subject, 
And  so  God  save  His  Grace,  this  is  no  Treason. 

Cous.     He  is  March  mad,  farewell  Monsieur.      [Exit  Couzen. 

Shat.     Farewel ; 

181 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  i 

I  shall   be  here  attending,  'tis  my   life 

They  aime  at,  there's   no   way  to  save   it,   well 

Let  'em  spread  all   their   nets  :    they  shall   not  draw   me 

Into  any  open   Treason,   I   can   see, 

And  can   beware,  I   have  my  wits  about   me, 

I   thank  heaven   for't. 

Enter  Love. 

Love.     There  he  goes, 

That  was  the  fairest   hope  the  French  Court  bred, 
The  worthiest  and  the  sweetest  ternper'd  spirit, 
The  truest,  and  the  valiantest,  the   best  of  judgment, 
Till  most  unhappy  I  :    sever'd  those  virtues, 
And  turn'd  his  wit   wild   with  a  coy   denial, 
Which  heaven   forgive  me,  and   be  pleas'd,   O  heaven 
To  give  again  his  senses  :    that  my  love 
May  strike  off  all  my   follies. 

Shat.     Lady. 

Love.     I  Sir. 

Shat.     Your  will  with  me  sweet  Lady. 

Love.     Sir,  I  come. 

Shat.     From  the  dread  sovereign   King,  I  know  it  Lady, 
He  is  a  gracious  Prince,  long  may  he  live, 
Pertain  you  to  his  chamber? 

Lov.     No  indeed  Sir, 
That  place  is  not  for  wornen,  Do  you  know  me  ? 

Shat.      Yes,  I  do  know  you. 

Lov.     What's  my  name  ?    pray  you  speak. 

Shat.     That's  all  one,  I  do  know  you  and  your  business, 
You  are  discover'd  Lady,  I  am  wary, 
It  stands  upon  my  life  ;    pray  excuse  me, 
The  best  man  of  this  Kingdom  sent  you  hither, 
To  dive  into  me,  have  I  toucht  you  ?    ha  ? 

Lov.     You  are  deceiv'd  Sir,  I  come  from  your  love, 
That  sends  you  fair  commends,  and  many  kisses. 

Shat.     Alass,  poor  soul,  How  does  she  ?    Is  she  living  ? 
Keeps  she  her  bed   still  ? 

Lov.     Still  Sir,  She  is  living, 
And  well,  and  shall  do  so. 

Shat.     Are  ye  in  counsel  ? 

182 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Lov.     No  Sir,  nor  any  of  my  sex. 

Skat.     Why  so, 

If  you  had  been  in  counsel,  you  would  know, 
Her  time  to  be  but  slender  ;    she  must  die. 

Lov.     I  do  believe  it,  Sir. 

Shat.     And  suddenly, 
She  stands  too  near  a  fortune. 

Lov.     Sir  ? 

Shat.     'Tis  so, 

There  is  no  jesting  with  a  Princes  Title, 
Would  we  had  both  been  born  of  common  parents, 
And  liv'd  a  private  and  retir'd  life, 
In  homely  cottage,  we  had  then  enjoyed, 
Our  loves,  and  our  embraces,  these  are  things, 
That  cannot  tend  to  Treason — 

Lov.     I  am  wretched. 

Skat.      O  I  pray  as.  often  for  the  King  as  any, 
And  with  as  true  a  heart,  for's  continuance, 
And  do  moreover  pray  his  heirs  may  live  ; 
And  their  fair  issues,  then  as  I  am  bound 
For  all  the  states  and  commons  :    if  these  prayers 
Be  any  wayes  ambitious,  I  submit, 
And  lay  my  head   down,  let  'em  take  it  off; 
You  may  informe  against  me,  but  withall 
Remember  my  obedience  to  the  Crown, 
And  service  to  the  State. 

Lov.     Good  Sir,  I  love  ye. 

Shat.     Then  love  the  gracious  King,  and  say  with  me. 

Lov.     Heaven  save  his  Grace. 

Shat.     This  is  strange — 
A  woman  should  be  sent  to  undermine  me, 
And  buz  love  into  me  to  try  my  spirit ; 
Offer  me  kisses,  and  enticing  follies, 
To  make  me  open,  and  betray  my  self; 
It  was  a  subtile  and  a  dangerous  plot, 
And  very  soundly  followed,  farewel  Lady, 
Let  me  have  equal  hearing,  and  relate 
I  am  an  honest   Man.      Heaven  save  the  King.  [Exit. 

Love.     I'll  never  leave  him,  till,  by  art  or  prayer, 
I  have  restored  his  senses,  If  I  make 

183 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  i 

Him  perfect   Man  again,   he's  mine,  till   when, 

I  here  abjure  all   loves  of  other  men.  [Exit. 

Enter  Cozen,   and  Jaques. 

yaques*     Nay,  good  Sir  be  perswaded,  go   but  back, 
And  tell  him  hee's  undone,  say  nothing  else  ; 
And  you  shall  see   how  tilings  will  work  upon't. 

Cozen.      Not  so  good   jfagues,  I  am   held  an   asse, 
A  Countrey  Fool,  good  to  converse  with  dirt, 
And  eate  course  bread,   weare  the  worst  Wooll, 
Know  nothing  but  the  high-way  to  Paris, 
And  wouldst  thou  have  me  bring  these  stains, 
And  imperfections  to  the  rising  view 
Of  the  right  worshipful  thy  worthy  Master  ? 
They  must  be  bright,  and  shine,  their  cloaths 
Soft  Velvet,  and  the   Tynan  Purple 
Like  the  Arabian  gums,  hung  like  the  Sun, 
Their  golden  beames  on  all  sides  ; 
Such  as  these  may  come  and  know 
Thy  Master,  I  am  base,  and  dare  not  speak  unto  him, 
Hee's  above  me. 

Ja.     If  ever  you  did  love  him,  or  his  state, 
His  name,  his  issue,  or  your  self,  go  back  : 
'Twill  be  an  honest  and  a  noble  part 
Worthy  a  Kinsman  ;    save  300  Acres 
From  present  execution  ;    they  have  had  sentence, 
And  cannot  be  repriev'd,   be  merciful. 

Co.     Have  I  not  urg'd  already  all  the  reasons, 
I  had  to  draw  him  from  his  will  ?    his  ruin  ? 
But  all  in  vain,  no  counsel  will  prevail  ; 
H'as  fixt  himself,  there's  no  removing,  Jaques, 
'Twill  prove  but  breath  and  labor  spent  in  vain, 
I'll  to  my  horse,  farewell. 

*Ja.     For  Gods  sake,  Sir, 
As  ever  you  have  hope  of  joy,  turn  back  ; 
I'll  be  your  slave  for  ever,  do  but  go, 
And  I  will  lay  such  fair  directions  to  you 
That  if  he   be  not  doting  on  his  fall, 
He  shall  recover  sight,  and  see  his  danger, 
And  ye  shall  tell  him  of  his  Wives  abuses, 

184 


ACT  ii    THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

I  fear,  too  foul  against  him  ;    how  she  plots, 

With  our  young  Mounsiers,  to  milk-dry  her  husband, 

And  lay  it  on  their  backs ;    the  next  her  pride  ; 

Then  what  his  debts  are,  and  how  infinite 

The  curses  of  his  Tenants,  this  will  work 

I'll  pawn  my  life  and  head,  he  cries  away, 

I'll  to  my  house  in  the  Countrey. 

Co.     Come,  I'll  go,  and  once  more  try  him, 
If  he  yield  not,  so, 
The  next  that  tryes  him  shall  be  want  and  woe.      [Exeunt. 

Aftus  Secundus.      Sctena  Prima. 

Enter  Gentleman,  Solus. 

Gent.     Jaques. 

Jaq.     Sir.  \_Withln. 

Gent.     Rise  yaques  'tis  grown  day, 
The  Country  life  is  best,  where  quietly, 
Free  from  the  clamor  of  the  troubled  Court, 
We  may  enjoy  our  own  green  shadowed  walks, 
And  keep  a  moderate  diet  without  art. 
Why  did  I  leave  my  house,  and  bring  my  Wife, 
To  know  the  manner  of  this  subtile  place  ? 
I  would,  when  first  the  lust  to  fame  and  honor, 
Possest  me,  I  had  met  with  any  evil, 
But  that ;    had  I  been  tied  to  stay  at  home, 
And  earn  the  bread  for  the  whole  family, 
With  my  own  hand,  happy  had  I  been. 

Enter  Jaques. 

Jaq.     Sir,  this  is  from  your  wonted  course  at  home, 
When  did  ye  there  keep  such  inordinate  hours  ? 
Goe  to  bed  late  ?    start  thrice  ?   and  call  on  me  ? 
Would  you  were  from  this  place  ;    our  Countrey  sleeps, 
Although  they  were  but  of  that  moderate  length 
That  might  maintain  us  in  our  daily  work, 
Yet  were  they  sound  and  sweet.  (together  ; 

Gent.     I  Jaques,  there  we  dreamt  not  of  our  Wives,  we  lay 
And  needed  not  ;    now  at  length  my  Cozens  words, 

185 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  n 

So  truly   meant,   mixt   with   thy   timely  prayers 
So  often   urged,   to  keep   me  at   my   home, 
Condemn   me  quite. 

Jii.      'Twas   not  your  fathers  course  : 
He   liv'd   and   dy'd   in    Orleancc,   where   he   had 
His   Vines  as  fruitful   as  experience 
(Which   is  the  art  of  Husbandry)  could   make  ; 
He  had  his  presses  for  'em,  and   his  wines 
Were  held   the.  best,  and  out-sold  other  Mens, 
His  corn  and   cattel  serv'd   the  neighbor  Towm 
With   plentiful   provision,  yet  his  thrift 
Could   miss  one  Beast  amongst  the   heard  ; 
He  rul'd   more   where   he  liv'd,   than   ever  you  will   here. 

Gent.      'Tis  true,  why  should  my  Wife  then,  'gainst  my 
Perswade   me   to  continue   in  this  course  ?  (g°°d> 

Ja.     Why  did  you  bring  her  hither  at  the  first, 
Before  you  warm'd  her  blood  with  new  delights  ? 
Our  Countrey  sports  could  have  contented  her  ; 
When  you  first  married  her  a  puppet-play 
Pleas'd   her  as  well  as  now  the  tilting  doth. 
She  thought  her  self  brave  in  a  bugle  chain, 
Where   Orient  pearl  will  scarce  content  her  now. 

Gent.     Sure  Jaques,  she  sees  something  for  my  good 
More  than  I  do  ;    she  oft  will  talk  to  me 
Of  Offices,  and  that  she  shortly  hopes, 
By  her  acquaintance  with  the  friends  she  hath, 
To  get  a  place  shall  many  times  outweigh 
Our  great  expences,  and  if  this  be  so — 

Ja.     Think  better  of  her  words,  she  doth  deceive  you, 
And  only  for  her  vain  and  sensual  ends 
Perswade  ye  thus.     Let  me  be  set  to  dwell 
For  ever  naked  in  the  barest  soil, 
So  you  will  dwell  from   hence. 

Gent.     I  see  my  folly, 

Pack  up  my  stufFe,  I  will  away  this  morne. 
Haste — haste. 

Ja.     I,  now   I  see  your  Father's  honors 
Trebling  upon  you,  and  the  many   prayers 
The  Countrey  spent  for  him,  which  almost  now 
Begun  to  turn  to  curses,  turning  back, 

186 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

And  falling  like  a  [timely]  shower 
Upon  ye. 

Gent.     Goe,  call   [up]   my   Wife. 

Ja.     But  shall  she  not  prevail, 
And  sway  you,  as  she  oft  hath  done  before  ? 

Gent.     I   will  not  hear  her,  but  raile  on  her, 
Till  I  be  ten  miles  off. 

Ja.     If  you  be  forty, 
'Twill  not  be  worse  Sir  : 

Gent.     Call  her  up. 

ya.     I  will  Sir.  [Exit. 

Gent.     Why  what  an  Ass  was  I  that  such  a  thing 
As  a  Wife  is  could  rule  me  ! 

Know  not  I  that  woman  was  created  for  the  man, 
That  her  desires,  nay  all   her  thoughts  should  be 
As  his  are  ?    is  my  sense  restor'd  at  length  ? 
Now  she  shall  know,  that  which  she  should  desire, 
She  hath  a  husband  that  can  govern  her, 

Enter   Wife. 

If  her  desires  leads  me  against  my  will ; 
Are  you  come  ? 

Wife.     What  sad  unwonted   course 
Makes  you  raise  me  so  soon,  that  went  to  bed 
So  late  last-night. 

Gent.     O  you  shall  goe  to  bed  sooner  hereafter, 
And  be  rais'd  again  at  thrifty  hours  : 
In  Summer  time  wee'l  walk 
An  hour  after  our  Supper,  and  to  bed, 
In  Winter  you  shall  have  a  set  at  Cards, 
And  set  your  Maids  to  work. 

Wife.     What  do  you  mean  ? 

Gent.     I  will  no  more  of  your  new  tricks,  your  honors, 
Your  Offices,  and  all  your  large  preferments, 
Which  still  you  beat  into  my  ears,  hang  o'er  me, 
I'll  leave  behind  for  others,  the  great  sway 
Which  I  shall   bear  at   Court :    my  living  here 
With  countenance  of  your  honoured  friends, 
I'll  be  content  to  lose  :    for  you  speak  this 
Only  that  you  may  still  continue  here 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  n 

In   wanton  ease  :    and  draw  me  to  consume, 
In  cloaths  and  other  things  idle  for  shew, 
That  which   my   Father  got  with   honest  thrift. 

Wife.      Why,  who  hath   been   with  you  Sir, 
That  you   talk  thus  out  of  Frame. 

Gent.      You  make  a  fool  of  me  : 
You  provide  one  to  bid  me  forth  to  supper, 
And  make  me  promise  ;    then   must  some  one  or  other 
Invite  you  forth,   if  you  have  born  your  self 
Loosely  to  any  Gentleman   in  my  sight 
At  home,  you  ask  me  how  I   like  the  carriage, 
Whether  it  were  not  rarely  for  my  good, 
And  open'd  not  a  way  to  my  preferment  ? 
Come,  I  perceive  all  :    talk  not,  we'll  away. 

Wife.     Why  Sir,  you'll  stay  till  the  next  triumph 
Day  be  past  ? 

Gent.     I,  you  have  kept  me  here  triumphing 
This  seven  years,  and  I  have  ridden  through  the  streets, 
And  bought  embroyder'd  hose  and  foot-cloths  too, 
To  shew  a  subjects  zeal,  I  rode  before 
In  this  most  gorgeous  habit,  and  saluted 
All  the  acquaintance  I  could  espie 
From  any  window,  these  are  wayes  ye  told  me 
To  raise  me  ;    I  see  all  :    make  you  ready  straight, 
And  in  that  Gown  which  you  came  first  to  Town  in, 
Your  safe-guard,  cloak,  and  your  hood  sutable  : 
Thus  on  a  double  gelding  shall  you  amble, 
And  my  man  Jaques  shall  be  set  before  you. 

Wife.     But  will  you  goe  ? 

Gent.     I  will. 

Wife.     And  shall  I  too  ? 

Gent.     And  you  shall  too. 

Wife.     But  shall  I  by  this  light  ? 

Gent.     Why  by  this  light  you  shall. 

Wife.     Then   by  this  light 
You  have  no  care  of  your  Estate,  and  mine. 
Have  we  been  seven  years  venturing  in  a  Ship, 
And  now  upon  return,  with  a  fair  wind, 
And  a  calm  Sea,  full  fraught  with  our  own  wishes, 
Laden  with  wealth  and  honor  to  the  brim, 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

And  shall  we  flye  away  and  not  receive  it  ? 
Have  we  been  tilling,  sowing,  labouring, 
With  pain  and  charge  a  long  and  tedious  winter, 
And  when  we  see  the  corn  above  the  ground, 
Youthful  as  is  the  Morn  and  the  full  eare, 
That  promises  to  stuffe  our  spacious  garners, 
Shall  we  then  let  it  rot,  and  never  reap  it  ? 

Gent.    Wife  talke  no  more,  your  Rhetorick  comes  too  late, 
I  am  inflixible  ;    and  how  dare  you 
Adventure  to  dire6t  my  course  of  life  ? 
Was  not  the  husband  made  to  rule  the  Wife  ? 

Wife.    'Tis  true  :    but  where  the  man  doth  miss  his  way, 
It  is  the  Womans  part  to  set  him  right ; 
So  Fathers  have  a  power  to  guide  their  Sons 
In  all  their  courses,  yet  you  oft  have  seen 
Poor  little  children,  that  have  both  their  eyes, 
Lead  their  blind  Fathers. 

Gen.     She  has  a  plaguy  wit, 
I  say  you'r  but  a  little  piece  of  man. 

Wife.     But  such  a  piece,  as  being  tane  away, 
Man  cannot  last  :    the  fairest  and  tallest  ship, 
That  ever  sail'd,  is  by  a  little  piece  of  the  same 
Wood,  steer'd  right,  and  turn'd  about. 

Gen.     'Tis  true  she  sayes,  her  answers  stand  with  reason. 

Wife.     But  Sir,  your  Cozin  put  this  in  your  head, 
Who  is  an  enemy  to  your  preferment, 
Because  I  should  not  take  place  of  his  wife  ; 
Come,  by  this  kiss,  thou  shalt  not  go  sweet  heart. 

Gen.      Come,  by  this  kiss  I  will  go  Sweet-heart, 
On  with  your  riding  stuffe  :    I  know  your  tricks, 
And  if  preferment  fall  ere  you  be  ready, 
'Tis  welcome,  else  adieu  the  City  life. 

Wife.     Well,  Sir,  I  will  obey. 

Gent.     About  it  then. 

Wife.     To  please  your  humor  I  would  dress  my  self, 
In  the  most  loathsome  habit  you  could  name, 
Or  travel  any  whether  o're  the  World, 
If  you  command  me,  it  shall  ne'r  be  said, 
The  frailty  of  a  woman,  whose  weak  mind, 
Is  often  set  on  loose  delights,  and  shews, 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  n 

Hath  drawn   her  husband   to  consume   his  state, 
In   the   vain   hope  of  that   which   never  fell. 

Gen.      About   it   then,   women  are   pleasant  creatures, 
When  once  a  man   begins  to  know   himself. 

Wife.      But   hark  you  Sir,   because  I  will   be  sure, 
You  shall  have  no  excuse,  no  word   to  say 
In  your  defence  hereafter  ;    when  you  see 
What  honors  were  prepar'd   for  you  and  me, 
Which  you  thus  willingly  have  thrown  away, 
I  tell  you  I  did  look  for  present  honor, 
This  morning  for  you,  which   I  know  had  come  : 
But   if  they  do  not  come  ere  I  am   ready 
(Which  I  will   be  the  sooner  least  they  should) 
When   I  am  once  set  in  a  countrey  life, 
Not  all  the  power  of  earth  shall  alter  me, 
Not  all  your  prayers  or  threats  shall   make  me  speak 
The  least  words  to  my  honorable  friends, 
To  do  you  any  grace. 

Gent.     I  will  not  wish  it. 

Wife.     And  never  more  hope  to  be  honorable. 

Gent.     My  hopes  are  lower. 

Wife.     As  I  live  you  shall  not, 
You  shall  be  so  far  from  the  name  of  noble 
That  you  shall  never  see  a  Lord  again  ; 
You  shall  not  see  a  Maske,  or  Barriers, 
Or  Tilting,  or  a  solemn  Christning, 
Or  a  great  Marriage,  or  new  Fire-works, 
Or  any  bravery  \    but  you  shall  live 
At  home,  bespotted  with  your  own  lov'd  durt, 
In  scurvy  cloaths,  as  you  were  wont  to  doe, 
And  to  content  you,  I  will  live  so  too. 

Gen.     Tis  all  I  wish,  make  haste,  the  day  draws  on, 
It  shall  be  my  care  to  see  your  Stufte  packt  up. 

Wife.  It  shall  be  my  care  to  gull  you :  you  shall  stay.  [Ex.  Gen. 
And  more  than  so,  intreat  me  humbly  too, 
You  shall  have  honors  presently  ;    Maria. 

Enter  Maria. 

Mar.     Madam. 

Wife.     Bring  hither,  pen,  ink,  and  paper. 

190 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Ma.     'Tis  here. 

Wife.     Your  Master  will  not  stay, 
Unless  preferment  come  within  an  hour. 

Mar.     Let  him  command  one  of  the  City  gates, 
In  time  of  mutiny,  or  you  may  provide  him, 
To  be  one  of  the  counsel  for  invading, 
Some  savage  Countrey  to  plant  Christian   faith. 

Wife.     No,  no,  I  have   it  for  him,  call  my  page  ; 
Now,  my  dear  husband,  there  it  is  will  fit  you.         \Ex.  Maria. 
And  when  the  world  shall  see  what  I  have  done, 
Let  it  not  move  the  spleen  of  any  Wife, 
To  make  an  Ass  of  her  beloved  husband, 
Without  good  ground,  but  if  they  will  be  drawn 
To  any  reason   by  you,  do  not  gull  them  ; 
But  if  they  grow  conceited  of  themselves, 
And  be  fine  Gentlemen,  have  no  mercy, 
Publish  them  to  the  World,  'twill  do  them  good 
When  they  shall  see  their  follies  understood, 
Go  bear  these  Letters  to  my  servant, 
And   bid  him  make  haste,  I  will  dress  my  self, 
In  all  the  Journey-Cloaths  I  us'd  before, 
Not  to  ride,  but  to  make  the  Laughter  more.  [Exit. 

Enter  Gentleman,  and  Jaques. 

Gent.     Is  all  packt  up  ? 

Ja.     All,  all  Sir,  there  is  no  tumbler 
Runs  through  his  hoop  with  more  dexterity, 
Then  I  about  this  business  :    'Tis  a  day, 
That  I  have  long  long'd  to  see. 

Gent.     Come,  Where's  my  Spurs  ? 

Ja.     Here,  Sir,  and  now  'tis  come. 

Gent.     I,  Jaques^  now, 
I  thank  my  fates,  I  can  command  my  Wife. 

Ja.     I  am  glad  to  see  it,  Sir. 

Gent.     I  do  not  love  alwayes, 
To  be  made  a  puppie,  Jaques. 

Ja.     But,  yet  me  thinks  your  Worship  does  not  look, 
Right  like  a  Countrey  Gentleman. 

Gent.     I  will,  give  me  my  t'other  hat. 

Ja.     Here, 

191 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  n 

Gent.      So,  my  Jerkin. 

ya.      Yes,  Sir. 

Gent.     On  with   it  Jaques,  thou  and   I 
Will  live  so  finely   in   the  Countrey,  yaques, 
And  have  such   pleasant  walks  into  the  Woods 
A  mornings,  and  then   bring  home  riding-rods, 
And  walking  staves — 

"Ja.     And  I  will   bear  them,  Sir, 
And  Skurds;e-sticks  for  the  children. 

O 

Gent.     So  thou  shalt, 

And  thou  shalt  do  all,  over-see  my  Work-folkes, 
And  at  the  weeks  end  pay  them  all  their  wages. 

Ja.     I  will,  Sir,  so  your   Worship  give  me  Money. 
Gent.     Thou  shalt  receive  all  too :   give  me  my  Drawers. 
Ja.     They  are  ready,  Sir. 
Gent.     And  I  will  make  thy  Mistriss, 
My  wife,  look  to  her  landrie,  and  her  dairy, 
That  we  may  have  our  linnen  clean  on  Sundayes. 
ya.     And  Holy-dayes. 

Gent.     I,  and  ere  we  walk  about  the  Grounds 
Provide  our  break-fast, 

Or  she  shall  smoke,  I'll  have  her  a  good  huswife  ; 
She  shall  not  make  a  voyage  to  her  Sisters, 
But  she  shall  live  at  home, 
And  feed  her  pullen  fat,  and  see  her  Maides 
In  bed  before  her,  and  lock  all  the  doors. 

ya.     Why  that  will  be  a  life  for  Kings  and   Queens. 
Gen.     Give  me  my  Scarfe  with  the  great  Button  quickly. 

.     'Tis  done,  Sir. 
en.     Now  my  Mittens. 
.     Here  they  are,  Sir. 
Gen.     'Tis  well  :    now  my  great  dagger. 

.     There. 
Gen.     Why  so  ;    thus  it  should  be,  now  my  riding  rod. 

.     There's  nothing  wanting,  Sir. 
en.     Another,  man,  to  stick  under  my  girdle. 

.     There  it  is. 
Gent.     All   is  well. 
ya.     Why  now  methinks  your  Worship  looks 
Like  to  your  self,  a  Man  of  means  and  credit, 

192 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

So  did  your  grave  and  famous  Ancestors, 

Ride  up  and  down  to  Fairs,  and  cheapen  cattel. 

Gent.     Goe,  hasten  your  Mistriss,  Sirra. 

Ja.     It  shall   be  done.  [Ex.  Jaques. 

Enter  Servant  and  Page. 

Ser.     Who's  that  ?    who's  that  Boy  ? 

Page.      I  think  it  be  my  Master.  (rod  ? 

Ser.     Who,  he  that  walkes   in   gray,  whisking   his   riding 

Pag.     Yes,  Sir,   'tis  he. 

Ser.     'Tis  he  indeed  ;    he  is  prepar'd 
For  his  new  journey  ;    when  I  wink  upon  you, 
Run  out  and  tell  the  Gentleman  'tis  time — 
Monsieur  good  day. 

Gen.     Monsieur,  your  Mistriss  is  within,  but  yet  not  ready. 

Ser.     My  business  is  with  you,  Sir  ;    'tis  reported, 
I  know  not  whether  by  some  enemy 
Maliciously,  that  envies  your  great  hopes, 
And  would  be  ready  to  sow  discontents 
Betwixt  his  Majesty,  and  you,  or  truely, 
Which  on  my  faith  I  would  be  sorry  for, 
That  you  intend  to  leave  the  Court  in  haste. 

Gen.     Faith,  Sir,  within  this  half  hour, 

Jaques  within  :    Sir  ? 

Gent.     Is  my  Wife  ready  ? 

Ja.     Presently. 

Ser.     But  Sir, 

I  needs  must  tell  you,  as  I  am  your  friend, 
You  should  have  ta'en  your  journey  privater, 
For  'tis  already  blaz'd  about  the  Court. 

Gen.     Why  Sir,  I  hope  it  is  no  Treason,  is  it  ? 

Ser.     'Tis  true,  Sir,  but  'tis  grown  the  common  talk, 
There's  no  discovery  else  held,  and  in  the  presence 
All  the  Nobility  and  Gentry, 
Have  nothing  in  their  mouths  but  only  this, 
Monsieur  Marine,  that  noble  Gentleman, 
Is  now  departing  hence  :    every  Mans  face 
Looks  ghastly  on  his  fellows  ;    such  a  sadness 
(Before  this  day)  I  ne'er  beheld  in  Court, 
Mens  hearts  begin  to  fail  them  when  they  hear  it, 

B.-F.  VIII,  N  193 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  n 

In   expectation  of  the  great  event 

That  needs  must  follow   it,  pray   Heaven   it  be  good  ! 

Gen.     Why,   I   had   rather  all   their  hearts  should  fail, 
Than   I  stay  here  until   my   purse   fail   me. 

Ser.      But  yet  you  are  a  Subject,  and  beware, 
I  charge  you  by  the  love  I   bear  to  you, 
How  you  do  venture  rashly  on  a  course, 
To  make  your  Sovereign  jealous  of  your  deeds, 
For  Princes  jealousies,  where  they  love  most, 
Are  easily  found,   but  they  be  hardly  lost. 

Gen.     Come,  these  are  tricks,  I  smell  'em,  I  will  goe. 

Ser.     Have  I   not  still  profest  my  self  your  friend  ? 

Gen.     Yes,  but  you  never  shewd  it  to  me  yet. 

Ser.     But  now  I  will,   because  I  see  you  wise, 
And  give  ye  thus  much  light  into  a  business, 
That  came  to  me  but  now,  be  resolute, 
Stand  stifly  to  it  that  you  will  depart, 
And  presently. 

Gen.     Why  so  I  mean   to  doe. 

Ser.      And  by  this  light  you  may  be  what  you  will  ; 
Will  you  be  secret,  Sir  ? 

Gen.     Why  ?     What's  the  matter  ? 

Ser.     The   King  does  fear  you. 

Gent.     How  ? 

Ser.     And  is  now  in   Counsel  j 

Gent.     About  me  ? 

Ser.  About  you,  and  you  be  wise, 
You'll  find  he's  in  Counsel  about  you : 
His  Counsellors  have  told  him  all  the  truth. 

Gent.     What  truth  ? 

Ser.     Why,  that  which  now  he  knows  too  well. 

Gent.     What  is't  ? 

Ser.     That  you  have  followed  him  seven  years, 
With  a  great  train  :    and  though  he  have  not  grac't  you, 
Yet  you  have  div'd  into  the  hearts  of  thousands, 
With  liberality  and  noble  carriage ; 
And  if  you  should  depart  home  unprefer'd, 
All  discontented,  and  seditious  spirits 
Would  flock  to  you,  and  thrust  you  into  action  : 
With  whose  help,  and  your  Tenants,  who  doth  not  know 

194 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

(If  you  were  so  dispos'd  :) 

How  great  a  part  of  this  yet  fertile  peaceful  Realm  of  France 

You  might  make  desolate  ?    but  when  the  King 

Heard  this — 

Gent.     What  said  he? 

Ser.     Nothing,  but  shook, 
As  never  Christian  Prince  did  shake  before. 
And  to  be  short,  you  may  be  what  you  will 
But  be  not  ambitious  Sir,  sit  down 
With  moderate  honors,  least  you  make  your  self 
More  fear'd. 

Gent.     I  know,  Sir,  what  I  have  to  doe 
In  mine  own  business. 


Enter  Longavile. 

Long.     Where's  Monsieur  Mount  Marine  ? 

Ser.     Why  there  he  stands,  will  you  ought  with  him  ? 

Long.     Yes  :    Good  day  Monsieur  Marine. 

Gent.     Good  day  to  you. 

Long.     His  Majesty  doth  commend  himself, 
Most  kindly  to  you  Sir,  and  hath,  by  me, 
Sent  you  this  favor  :    kneel  down,  rise  a  Knight. 

Gent.     I  thank  his  Majesty. 

Long.     And   he  doth  further  request  you, 
Not  to  leave  the  Court  so  soon, 
For  though  your  former  merits  have  been  slighted, 
After  this  time  there  shall  no  Office  fall ; 
Worthy  your  spirit,  as  he  doth  confess 
There's  none  so  great,  but  you  shall  surely  have  it. 

Ser.     Do  you  hear  ?    if  you  yield  yet  you  are  an  ass. 

Gent.     I'll  shew  my  service  to  his  Majesty 
In  greater  things  than  these,  but  for  this  small  one 
I  must  intreat   his  Highness  to  excuse  me. 

Long.     I'll  bear  your  Knightly  words  unto  the  King, 
And  bring  his  Princely  answer  back  again.  [Exit  Long. 

Ser.     Well  said,  be  resolute  a  while,  I  know 
There  is  a  tide  of  honors  coming  on. 
I  warrant  you. 

N  2  195 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  n 

Enter  Bewford. 

Bew.     Where   is  this  new  made   Knight  ? 

Gent.     Here,  Sir. 

Bew.     Let  me  enfold  you  in   my  arms, 
Then  call  you  Lord,  the   King  will   have  it  so, 
Who  doth   entreat  your  Lordship  to  remember 
His  Message  sent  to  you  by  Longavile. 

Ser.     If  ye   be  durty,  and  dare  not  mount  aloft ; 
You  may  yield   now,  I  know  what  I  would  do. 

Gent.     Peace,  I  will  fit  him  ;    tell  his  Majesty 
I  am  a  Subjecl,  and  I  do  confess 
I  serve  a  gracious  Prince,  that  thus  hath   heapt 
Honors  on  me  without  desert,  but  yet 
As  for  the  Message,  business  urgeth  me, 
I  must  be  gone,  and  he  must  pardon  me, 
Were  he  ten  thousand  Kings  and  Emperors. 

Bew.     I'll  tell  him  so. 

Ser.     Why,  this  was  like  your  self. 

Bew.     As  he  hath  wrought  him,  'tis  the  finest  fellow 
That  e're  was  Christmas  Lord,  he  carries  it 
So  truely  to  the  life,  as  though  he  were 
One  of  the  plot  to  gull  himself.  [Exit  Bewf. 

Ser.     Why  so,  you  sent  the  wisest  and  the  shrewdest  answer 
Unto  the  King,  I  swear,  my  honored  friend, 
That  ever  any  Subject  sent  his  Liege. 

Gent.     Nay  now  I  know  I  have  him  on  the  hip, 
I'll  follow  it.  ' 

Enter  Longavile. 

Long.     My  honorable  Lord, 

Give  me  your  noble  hand  right  courteous  Peer, 
And  from  henceforth  be  a  courtly  Earl ; 
The  King  so  wills,  and  Subjects  must  obey: 
Only  he  doth  desire  you  to  consider 
Of  his  request. 

Ser.     Why  faith  you'r  well  my  Lord,  yield  to  him. 

Gent.     Yield  ?    why  'twas  my  plot. 

Ser.     Nay,  'twas  your  Wives  plot. 

Gent.     To  get  preferment  by  it, 

196 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

And  thinks  he  now  to  pop  me  i'th'  mouth 
But  with  an  Earldome  ?    I'll  be  one  step  higher. 
Ser.     'Tis  the  finest  Lord,  I  am  afraid  anon 
He  will  stand  upon't  to  share  the  Kingdom  with  him. 

Enter  Bewford. 

Bew.     Where's  this  Courtly  Earl  ? 
His  Majesty  commends  his  love  unto  you  ; 
And  will  you  but  now  grant  to  his  request, 
He  bids  you  be  a  Duke,  and  chuse  of  whence. 

Ser.     Why  if  you  yield  not  now,  you  are  undone, 
What  can  you  wish  to  have  more,  but  the  Kingdom  ? 

Gent.     So  please  his  Majesty,  I  would  be  D.  of  Burgundy, 
Because  I  like  the  place. 

Bew.     I  know  the  King  is  pleas'd. 

Gent.     Then  will  I  stay  and  kiss  his  Highness  hand. 

Bew.     His  Majesty  will  be  a  glad  man  when  he  hears  it. 

Lon.     But   how  shall  we  keep  this  from   the  world's  ear, 
That  some  one  tell  him  not,  he  is  no  Duke  ? 

Ser.     Wee'l  think  of  that  anon. 

Why  Gentlemen,  Is  this  a  gracious  habit  for  a  Duke  ? 
Each  gentle  body  set  a  finger  to 
To  pluck  the  clouds  of  this  his  riding  weeds 
From  off  the  orient  Sun  of  his  best  cloaths  ; 
I'll  pluck  one  Boot  and  spur  off. 

Long.     I  another. 

Bew.     I'll  pluck  his  Jerkin  off. 

Ser.     Sit  down  my  Lord  ; 
Both  his  spurs  off  at  once  good  Longavile, 
And  Bewford)  take  that  Scarfe  off,  and  that  Hat, 
Doth  not  become  his  largely  sprouting  fore-head. 
Now  set  your  gracious  foot  to  this  of  mine, 
One  pluck  will  do  it,  so,  off  with   the  other. 

Lon.     Loe,  thus  your  servant  Longavile  doth  pluck 
The  trophy  of  your  former  gentry  off. 
Off  with  his  Jerkin   Bewford. 
Ser.     Didst  thou  never  see 

A  nimble  footed  Taylor  stand  so  in  his  stockings, 
Whilst  some  friend  help'd  to  pluck  his  Jerkin  off, 
To  dance  a  Jigg  ? 

197 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  n 

Enter  Jaques. 

Lon.      Here's   his   man   Jaques  come, 
Booted  and   ready  still. 

Jay-     My   Mistriss  stayes  ; 

Why  how  now  Sir  ?     What  do's  your  Worship  mean, 
To  pluck  your  grave  and   thrifty  habit  off. 

Gent.      My  slippers,  Jaques. 

Lon.      O   thou   mighty   Duke, 
Pardon   this  Man, 
That  thus  hath  trespassed   in  ignorance. 

Gent.     I  pardon   him. 

Lon.      His  Graces  slippers,  Jaques. 

Ja.     Why  what's  the  matter  ? 

Lon.     Foot-man,  he's  a  Duke  : 
The  King  hath  rais'd  him  above  all   his  Land. 

Ja.     I'll   to  his  Cozen  presently,  and  tell  him  so  ; 

0  what  a  dung-hill  Countrey  rogue  was  I.          [Exit  Jaques. 

Enter  Wife. 

Ser.     See,  see,  my  Mistriss. 

Lon.     Let's  observe  their  greeting. 

Wife.     Unto  your  will,  as  every  good  Wife  ought, 

1  have  turn'd  all  my  thoughts,  and  now  am  ready. 

Gent.     O  Wife,  I  am  not  worthy  to  kiss  the  least 
Of  all  thy  toes,  much  less  thy  Thumb, 
Which  yet  I  would   be  bold  with  ;    all  thy  counsel 
Hath  been  to  me  Angelical,  but  mine  to  thee 
Hath  been  most  dirty,  like  my  mind  : 
Dear  Duchess  I  must  stay. 

Wife.     What  are  you  mad,  to  make  me 
Dress,  and  undress,  turn  and  wind  me, 
Because  you  find   me  plyant  ?    said  I   not 
The  whole  world  should  not  alter  me,  if  once 
I  were  resolv'd  ?    and  now  you  call  me  Duchess  : 
Why  what's  the  matter  ? 

Gent.     Loe  a  Knight  doth  kneel. 

Wife.     A  Knight? 

Gent.     A   Lord. 

Wife.     A  Fool. 


ACT  in    THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Gent.     I  say  doth  kneel  an  Earl,  a  Duke. 

Long.     In  Drawers. 

Bew.     Without  shoes. 

Wife.     Sure  you  [are]  lunatick. 

Ser.     No,  honoured  Duchess, 
If  you  dare  but  believe  your  servants  truth, 
I  know  he  is  a  Duke. 

Long.     God  save  his  Grace. 

Wife.     I  ask  your  Graces  pardon. 

Gent.     Then  I  rise, 

And  here,  in  token  that  all  strife  shall  end, 
'Twixt  thee  and  me,  I  let  my  drawers  fall, 
And  to  thy  hands  I  do  deliver  them  : 
Which  signifies,  that  in  all  adts  and  speeches, 
From  this  time  forth,  my  Wife  shall  wear  the  breeches. 

Ser.     An  honorable  composition.  [Exeunt  omnes. 

Attus  T'ertius.     Sccena  Prima. 

Enter  Cozen,  and  Jaques. 

Coz.    O  Hall  I   believe  thee,  Jaques  ? 

Ja.     >^    Sir  you  may. 

Coz.     Didst  thou  not  dreame  ? 

Ja.     I  did  not. 

Coz.     Nor  imagine  ? 

Ja.     Neither  of  both  :    I  saw  him  great  and  mighty, 
I  saw  the  Monsieurs  bow,  and  heard  them  cry, 
Good  health  and  fortune  to  my  Lord  the  Duke. 

Coz.     A  Duke  art  sure  ?    a  Duke  ? 

Ja.     I  am  sure  a  Duke, 
And  so  sure,  as  I  know  my  self  for  Jaques. 

Coz.     Yet  the  Sun  may  dazel  ;    Jaques^  Was  it  not 
Some  leane  Commander  of  an  angry  Block-house 
To  keep  the  Fleemish  Eele-boats  from  invasion, 
Or  some  bold  Baron  able  to  dispend 
His  fifty  pounds  a  year,  and  meet  the  foe 
Upon  the  Kings  command,  in  gilded  canvas, 
And  do  his  deeds  of  worth  ?    or  was  it  not 
Some  place  of  gain,  as  Clerk  to  the  great  Band 

199 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN     ACT  in 

Of  maribones,   that   people  call   the  Switzers  ? 

Men    made   of  Beufe,   ami   Sarcenet  ?  (presence  ? 

Ja.     Is   a    Duke    his    chamber    hung    with    Nobles    like   a 

Coz.     1   dm  something  wavering  in   my   faith  ; 
Would  you  would  settle   me,  and  swear  'tis  so, 
Is  he  a  Duke  indeed  ? 

"Jo.      I  swear  he  is. 

Coz.     I  am  satisfied,   he  is  my  Kinsman.      Jaques, 
And  I   his  poor  unworthy  Cozen. 

Ja.     True,  Sir. 

Coz.     I   might  have  been  a  Duke  too,  I  had  means, 
A  wife  as  fair  as  his,  and  as  wise  as  his  ; 
And  could  have  brookt  the  Court  as  well  as  his, 
And  laid  about  her  for  her  husbands  honor  : 

0  Jaques,  had  I  ever  dreamt  of  this, 

1  had  prevented  him. 

Ja.     Faith  Sir  it  came 
Above  our  expectation,  we  were  wise 
Only  in  seeking  to  undoe  this  honor, 
Which  shewed  our  dung-hill  breeding  and  our  durt. 

Coz.      But  tell  me  Jaques, 

Why  could  we  not  perceive  ?    what  dull  Divel 
Wrought  us  to  cross  this  noble  course,  perswading 
'Twould  be  his  overthrow  ?    'fore  me  a  Courtier 
Is  he  that  knows  all,  Jaques,  and  does  all, 
'Tis  as  his  noble  Grace  hath  often  said, 
And  very  wisely,  Jaques^  we  are  fools, 
And  understand  just  nothing. 

Ja.     I,  as  we  were,  I  confess  it. 
But  rising  with  our  great  Master, 
We  shall  be  call'd  to  knowledge  with  our  places, 
'Tis  nothing  to  be  wise,  not  thus  much  there, 
There's  not  the  least  of  the  billet  dealers, 
Nor  any  of  the  Pastry,  or  the  Kitchin, 
But  have  it  in  measure  delicate. 

Coz.      Methinks  this  greatness  of  the  Dukes  my  Cozens, 
(I  ask  you  mercy,  Jaques,  that  near  name 
Is  too  familiar  for  me)  should  give  promise 
Of  some  great  benefits  to  his  attendants. 

Ja.     I  have  a  suit  my  self,  and  it  is  sure, 

200 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Or  I  mistake  my  ends  much. 

Coz.     What  is't  Jaques, 
May  I  not  crave  the  place  ? 

Ja.     Yes,  Sir,  you  shall, 
'Tis  to  be  but  his  Graces  Secretary, 
Which  is  my  little  all,  and  my  ambition, 
Till  my  known  worth  shall  take  me  by  the  hand, 
And  set  me  higher  ;    how  the  fates  may  do 
In  this  poor  thread  of  life,  is  yet  uncertain  ; 
I  was  not  born  I  take  it  for  a  Trencher, 
Nor  to  espouse  my  Mistriss  Dairy-maid. 

Couz.     I  am  resolv'd  my  Wife  shall  up  to  Court ; 
I'll  furnish  her,  that  is  a  speeding  course, 
And  cannot  chuse  but  breed  a  mighty  fortune  ; 
What  a  fine  youth  was  I,  to  let  him  start, 
And  get  the  rise  before  me  !    I'll  dispatch, 
And  put  my  self  in  Moneys. 

Ja.     Mass  'tis  true, 

And  now  you  talke  of  Money;    Sir,  my  business 
For  taking  those  Crowns  must  be  dispatcht : 
This  little  plot  in  the  Countrey  lies  most  fit 
To  do  his  Grace  such  serviceable  uses, 
I  must  about  it. 

Couz.     Yet,  before  you  goe, 

Give  me  your  hand,  and  bear  my  humble  service 
To  the  great  Duke  your  Master,  and  his  Duchess, 
And  live  your  self  in  favor  :    say  my  Wife 
Shall  there  attend  them  shortly,  so  farewell. 

Ja.     I'll  see  you  mounted,  Sir. 

Couz.     It  may  not  be, 

Your  place  is  far  above  it,  spare  your  self, 
And  know  I  am  your  servant,  fare  ye  well.       [Exit  Couzen. 

Ja.     Sir  I  shall  rest  to  be  commanded  by  you, 
This  place  of  Secretary  will  not  content  me, 
I  must  be  more  and  greater  :    let  me  see  ; 
To  be  a  Baron  is  no  such  great  matter 
As  people  take  it  :    for  say  I  were  a  Count, 
I  am  still  an  under-person  to  this  Duke, 
Which  methinks  sounds  but  harshly :    but  a  Duke  ? 
O  I  am  strangely  taken,  'tis  a  Duke 

2OI 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  in 

Or  nothing,  I'll  advise  upon't,  and   see 

What   may   be  done  by  wit  and   industry.  [Exit. 

Enter  Wife,  Longoveil,   Bewford,  Servants. 

Wife.      It   must   be  carried  closely  with  a  care 
That  no  man  speak  unto  him,  or  come  near  him, 
Without  our  private  knowledge,  or  be  made 
Afore-hand  to  our  practice  : 
My  good   husband, 

I  shall  entreat  you  now  to  stay  a  while, 
And  prove  a  noble  coxcomb. 
Gentlemen, 
Your  counsel  and  advice  about  this  carriage. 

Ser.     Alas  good  man,   I   do  begin  to  mourn 
His  dire  Massacre  :    what  a  persecution 
Is  pouring  down  upon  him  !    sure  he  is  sinful. 

Long.     Let  him  be  kept  in's  chamber  under  shew 
Of  state  and  dignity,  and  no  man  sufFer'd 
To  see  his  noble  face,  or  have  access, 
But  we  that  are  Conspirators.  (his  Tenants, 

Bew.     Or  else  down  with  him  into  the  Countrey  amongst 
There  he  may  live  far  longer  in  his  greatness, 
And  play  the  fool  in  pomp  amongst  his  fellows. 

Wife.     No,  he  shall  play  the  fool   in  the  City,  and  stay, 
I  will  not  lose  the  greatness  of  this  jest, 
That  shall  be  given  to  my  wit,  for  the  whole  Revenues. 

Ser.     Then   thus  wee'll  have  a  guard  about  his  person, 
That  no  man  come  too  near  him,  and  our  selves 
Alwayes  in  company;    have  him   into  the  City 
To  see  his  face  swell ;    whilst,  in  divers  corners, 
Some  of  our  own  appointing  shall   be  ready 
To  cry  heaven  bless  your  Grace,  long  live  your  Grace. 

Wife.     Servant,  your  counsel's  excellent  good, 
And  shall  be  follow'd,  'twill   be  rarely  strange 
To  see  him  stated  thus,  as  though  he  went 
A  shroving  through  the  City,  or  intended 
To  set  up  some  new  [stake]  : 
I  shall  not  hold 

From  open  laughter,  when  I  hear  him  cry, 
Come  hither  my  sweet  Duchess  :   let  me  kiss 

202 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Thy  gracious  lips  :    for  this  will  be  his  phrases  ? 
I  fear  me  nothing  but  his  legs  will  break 
Under  his  mighty  weight  of  such  a  greatness. 

Bew.     Now  me  thinks  dearest   Lady  you  are  too  cruel  ; 
His  very  heart  will  freeze  in  knowing  this. 

Wife.     No,  no,  the  man  was  never  of  such  deepness, 
To  make  conceit  his  Master  :    Sir,  I'll  assure  ye 
He  will  out-live  twenty  such  pageants. 
Were  he  but  my  Cozen,  or  my  Brother, 
And  such  a  desperate  killer  of  his  fortune, 
In  this  belief  he  should  dye,  though  it  cost  me 
A  thousand  Crowns  a  day  to  hold  it  up  ; 
Or  were  I  not  known  his  wife,  and  so  to  have 
An  equal  feeling  of  this  ill  he  suffers, 
He  should  be  thus  till  all  the  Boyes  i'th'  Town 
Made  sute  to  weare  his  badges  in  their  hats, 
And  walk  before  his  Grace  with  sticks  and  nose-gayes, 
We  Married  Women  hold — 

Ser.     'Tis  well,  no  more. 
The  Duke  is  entring,  set  you[r]   faces  right, 
And  bow  like  Countrey  Prologues  :    here  he  comes. 
Make  room  afore,  the  Duke  is  entring. 

Enter  Duke. 

Long.     The  choisest  fortunes  wait  upon  our  Duke. 

Ser.     And  give  him  all  content  and  happiness. 

Bew.     Let  his  great  name  live  to  the  end  of  time. 

Duke.     We  thank  you,  and  are  pleas'd  to  give  you  notice 
We  shall  at  fitter  times  wait  on  your  Loves, 
Till  when,  be  near  Us. 

Longv.     'Tis  a  valiant  purge,  and  works  extreamly; 
'Thas  delivered  him 

Of  all   Right  worshipful  and  gentle  humors, 
And  left  his  belly  full  of  nobleness. 

Du.     It  pleased  the  King  my  Master, 
For  sundry  vertues  not  unknown  to  him, 
And  the  all-seeing  state,  to  lend  his  hand, 
And  raise  me  to  this  Eminence,  how  this 
May  seem  to  other  Men,  or  stir  the  minds 
Of  such  as  are  my  fellow  Peers,  I  know  not, 

203 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  in 

I   would   desire  their  loves   in  just  designs. 

Wife.      Now   by  my  faith   he  does  well,   very   well  : 
Beshrew  my   heart  I   have  not  seen   a  better, 
Of  a  raw   fellow,  that   before  this  day 
Never  rehearst   his  state  :   'tis  marvellous  well. 

Ser.     Is  he  not   Duke  indeed,  see  how  he  looks 
As  if  his  spirit  were  a  last,  or  two 
Above  his  veins,  and  stretcht  his  noble  hide.  (not. 

Long.      Hee's  high-brac't  like  a  Drum,  pray  God  he  break 

Bew.     Why  let  him  break,  there's  but  a  Calves-skin  lost. 

Long.      May  it  please  your  Grace  to  see  the  City, 
'Twill   be  to  the  minds  and  much  contentment 
Of  the  doubtful  people. 

Du.     I  am  determin'd  so,  till  my  return 
I   leave  my  honour'd  Dutchess  to  her  chamber. 
Be  careful  of  your  health,  I  pray  you   be  so. 

Ser.     Your  Grace  shall  suffer  us  your  humble  servants 
To  give  attendance,  fit  so  great  a  person 
Upon  your  body. 

Du.     I  am  pleased  so. 

Long.     Away  good  Bewford^  raise  a  guard  sufficient 
To  keep  him  from  the  reach  of  Tongues,  be  quick  ; 
And  do  you  hear,  remember  how  the  streets 
Must  be  dispos'd  with,  for  cries,  and  salutations. 
Your  Grace  determines  not  to  see  the  King — 

Du.     Not  yet,  I  shall  be  ready  ten  dayes  hence 
To  kiss  his  Highness  hand,  and  give  him  thanks, 
As  it  is  fit  I   should  for  his  great  bounty. 
Set  forward  Gentlemen. 

Groom.    Room  for  the  Duke  there.    [Exeunt  Duke  and  Train. 

Wife.    'Tis  fit  he  should  have  room  to  shew  his  mightiness, 
He  swells  so  with  his  poyson, 
'Tis  better  to  reclaim  ye  thus,  than  make 
A  sheeps-head  of  you,  It  had  been  but  your  due  ; 
But  I  have  mercy  Sir,  and   mean   to  reclaim  you 
By  a  dire£ter  course. 
That  Woman  is  not  worthy  of  a  Soul 
That  has  the  sovereign  power  to  rule  her  husband, 
And  gives  her  title  up,  so  long  provided 
As  there  be  fair  play,  and  his  state  not  wrong'd. 

204 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Enter  Shattillion. 

Shat.     I  would  be  glad  to  know  whence  this  new  Duke 
The  people  buz  abroad  ;    or  by  what  title  (springs, 

He  receiv'd  his  dignity,  'tis  very  strange 
There  should  be  such  close  jugling  in  the  State, 
But  I  am  ty'd  to  silence,  yet  a  day 
May  come,  and  soon  to  perfect  all  these  doubts. 

Wife.     It  is  the  mad  Shattillion  by  my  Soul, 
I  suffer  much  for  this  poor  Gentleman  ; 
I'll  speak  to  him,  may  be  he  yet  knows  me. 
Monsieur  Shattilion. 

Shat.     Can  you  give  me  reason  from  whence 
This  great  Duke  sprang  that  walks  abroad  ? 

Wife.     Even  from  the  King  himself. 

Shat.     As  you  are  a  Woman,  I  think  you  may  be  cover' d  ? 
Yet  your  prayer  would  do  no  harm  good  Woman. 

Wife.     God  preserve  him. 

Enter  Shattillions  Love. 

Shat.     I  say  Amen,  and  so  say  all  good  Subjects. 

Love.     Lady,  as  ever  you  have  lov'd,  or  shall, 
As  you  have  hope  of  heaven  lend  your  hand, 
And  wit,  to  draw  this  poor  distracted  man 
Under  your  roufe,  from  the  broad  eyes  of  people, 
And  wonder  of  the  streets. 

Wife.     With  all  my  heart ; 
My  feeling  of  his  grief  and  loss  is  much. 

Love.     Sir,  now  you  are  come  so  near  the  prison,  will  ye 
Goe  in,  and  visit  your  fair  Love  :    poor  soul 
She  would  be  glad  to  see  you. 

Shat.     This  same  Duke  is  but 
Apocryphal,   there's  no  creation 
That  can  stand  where  titles  are  not  right. 

Lov.     'Tis  true,  Sir, 

Shat.     That  is  another  draught  upon  my  life  ; 
Let  me  examine  well  the  words  I  spake. 
The  words  I  spake  were,  that  this  novel  Duke 
Is  not  o'th'  true  making,  'tis  to  me  most  certain. 

Wife.     You  are  as  right,  Sir,  as  you  went  by  line. 

205 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  m 

Sbat.     And  to  the  grief  of  many  thousands  more. 

Wife.     If  there  be  any  such,  God  comfort  them. 

Shat.     Whose    mouths    may    open    when    the    time    shall 
I'm   betray'd,  commend  me  to  the  King,  (please ; 

And  tell  him  I  am  sound,  and  crave  but  justice  ; 
You  shall   not  need  to  have  your  guard  upon   me, 
Which  I  am  sure  are  plac'd  for  my  attachment ; 
Lead  on  ;    I'm  obedient  to  my   bonds. 

Lov.     Good  Sir  be  not  displeased   with   us  ; 
We  are  but  servants  to  his  Highness  will, 
To  make  that  good. 

Shat.     I  do  forgive  you  even  with  my  heart ; 
Shall  I  entreat  a  favor  ? 

Wife.     Any  thing. 

Shat.     To  see  my  love  before  that  fatal  stroak, 
And  publish  to  the  world  my  Christian  death, 
And  true  obedience  to  the  Crown  of  France. 

Lov.     I  hope  it  shall  not  need  Sir,  for  there  is  mercy 
As  well  as  Justice  in  his  Royal  heart.  [Exeunt. 

Enter  three  Gentlemen. 

I  Gent.      Every  man  take  his  corner,  here  am  I, 
You  there,  and  you  in  that  place,  so  be  perfect, 
Have  a  great  care  your  cries  be  loud  ;    and  faces 
Full  of  dejected  fear  and  humbleness. 
He  comes. 

Enter  Jaques. 

Ja.     Fye,  how  these  streets  are  charg'd  and  swell'd 
With  these  same  rascally  people  !    give  more  room, 
Or  I  shall  have  occasion  to  distribute 
A  martial  almes  amongst  you  ;    as  I  am  a  Gentleman 
I  have  not  seen  such   rude  disorder, 
They  follow  him  like  a  prize,  there's  no  true  gaper 
Like  to  your  Citizen,  he  will  be  sure 
The  Beares  shall  not  pass  by  his  door  in  peace, 
But  he  and  all  his  family  will  follow. 
Room  there  afore  :    Sound  : 

206 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Enter  Duke  and  his  company. 

Ja.     Give  room,  and  keep  your  places, 
And  you  may  see  enough  ;    keep  your  places. 

Long.     These  people  are  too  far  unmanner'd,  thus 
To  stop  your  Graces  way  with  multitudes. 

Du.     Rebuke  them  not,  good  Monsieur,  'tis  their  loves 
Which  I  will  answer,  if  it  please  my  stars 
To  spare  me  life  and  health. 

2  Gen.     Bless  your  Grace. 

Du.     And  you  with  all  my  heart. 

I  Gen.     Now  heaven  preserve  your  happy  dayes  : 

Du.     I  thank  you  too. 

3.  Gen.     Now  Heaven  save  your  Grace  i 

Du.     I  thank  you  all. 

Bew.     On  there  before. 

Du.     Stand  Gentlemen,  stay  yet  a  while. 
For  I  am  minded  to  impart  my  love 
To  these  good  people,  and  my  friends, 
Whose  love  and  prayers  for  my  greatness, 
Are  equal  in  abundance,  note  me  well, 
And  with  my  words  ;    my  heart  ?    for  as  the  Tree — 

Long.     Your  Grace  had  best  beware,  'twill  be  informed 
Your  greatness  with  the  people. 

Duke.     I  had  more, 

My  honest,  and  ingenious  people. — But 
The  weight  of  business  hath  prevented  me. 
I  am  call'd  from  you  :    but  this  tree  I  spake  of 
Shall  bring  forth  fruit,  I  hope,  to  your  content, 
And  so  I  share  my  bowels  amongst  you  all. 

Ornnes.     A  noble  Duke,  a  very  noble  Duke. 

Enter  a  Gentleman. 

Ser.     Afore  there  Gentlemen. 

Gen.     You'r  faithfully  met  good  Monsieur  Mount  Marine. 

Ser.     Be  advis'd,  the  time  is  alter'd. 

Gen.     Is  he  not  the  same  man  he  was  afore  ? 

Duke.     Still  the  same  man  to  you,  Sir. 

Long.     You  have  received  mighty  Grace,  be  thankful. 

Gen.     Let  me  not  dye  in  ignorance  ; 

207 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  in 

Long.     You  shall   not. 

Then  know,   the   King  out  of  his  love,   hath   pleas'd 
To  stile   him   Duke  of  Burgundy. 

Gen.      O   great   Duke, 

Thus  low,   I   plead   for  pardon,  and   desire 
To  be  enroPd  amongst  your  poorest  slaves. 

Du.     Sir,  you  have  mercy,  and   withal   my   hand, 
From  henceforth   let  me  call  you  one  of  mine. 

Ser.     Make  room  afore  there,  and  dismiss  the  people. 

Du.     Every  Man  to  his  house  in  peace  and  quiet.      (Duke. 

Peop.     Now  heaven   preserve  the  Duke,  heaven   bless  the 

[Exeunt  Omnes. 

Enter   Wife. 

Wife.     This  Letter  came  this  morn  from  my   Cosin 
To  the  great  Lady,   high  and  mighty  Duchess 
Of  Burgundy,   be  these  delivered.      Oh, 
For  a  stronger  lace  to  keep  my   breath 
That  I  may  laugh  the  nine  days  till  the  wonder 
Fall  to  an  ebb  :    the  high  and  mighty  Duchess  ? 
The  high  and  mighty  God  ?    what  a  stile  is  this  ! 
Methinks  it  goes  like  a  Duchy  lope-man, 
A  ladder  of  100  rounds  will  fail 
To  reach  the  top  on't  :    well  my  gentle  Cosin 
I  know  by  these  contents,  your  itch  of  honor  ; 
You  must  to  the  Court  you  say,  and  very  shortly : 
You  shall  be  welcome  ;    and  if  your  wife  have  wit 
I'll  put  her  in  a  thriving  course,  if  not 
Her  own  sin  on  her  own  head,  not  a  blot 
Shall  stain  my  reputation,  only  this 
I  must  for  healths  sake  sometimes  make  an  ass 
Of  the  tame  moil  my  Husband  ;   'twill  do  him  good, 
And  give  him  fresher  brains,   Me  fresher  bloud. 
Now  for  the  noble  Duke,  I  hear  him  coming. 

Enter  Duke^  his  train. 

Your  Grace  is  well  returned. 

Duke.     As  well  as  may  be  : 
Never  in  younger  health,  never  more  able  : 
I  mean  to  be  your  bed-fellow  this  night, 

208 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Let  me  have  good  encounter. 

Bew.     Bless  me  heaven 
What  a  hot  meat  this  greatness  is  ! 

Long.     It  may  be  so, 

For  I'll  be  sworn  he  hath  not  got  a  snap 
This  two  months  on  my  knowledge,  or  her  woman 
Is  damn'd  for  swearing  it. 

Duke.     I  thank  you  Gentlemen  for  your  attendance 
And  also  your  great  pains,  pray  know  my  Lodgings 
Better  and  oftner,  do  so  Gentlemen. 
Now  by  my  honor,  as  I  am  a  Prince, 
I  speak  sincerely,  know  my  lodgings  better, 
And  be  not  strangers,  I  shall  see  your  service 
And  your  deservings,  when  you  least  expe6t. 

Om.     We  humbly  thank  your  grace  for  this  great  favor. 

Du.     y  agues  ? 

Jaq.     Your  Grace. 

Du.     Be  ready  for  the  Countrey, 
And  let  my  Tenants  know  the  Kings  great  love  : 
Say  I  would  see  them,  but  the  weight  at  Court 
Lies  heavy  on  my  shoulders  :    let  them  know 
I  do  expe6l  their  duties  in  attendance 
Against  the  next  feast,  wait  for  my  coming 
To  take  up  Post-horse,  and  be  full  of  speed.  [Exit  Jaq. 

Wife.     I  would  desire  your  Grace — 

Du.     You  shall  desire,  and  have  your 
Full  desire  :    sweet  Duchess  speak. 

Wife.     To  have  some  conference  with  a  Gentleman 
That  seems  not  altogether  void  of  reason. 
He  talks  of  Titles,  and  things  near  the  Crown, 
And  knowing  none  so  fit  as  your  [good]  Grace, 
To  give  the  difference  in  such  points  of  State — 

Du.     What  is  he  ?    if  he  be  noble,  or  have  any  part 
That's  worthy  our  converse,  we  do  accept  him. 

Wife.     I  can  assure  your  Grace,  his  strain  is  noble, 
But  he's  very  subtle. 

Duke.    Let  him  be  so. 

Let  him  have  all  the  brains,  I  shall  demonstrate 
How  this  most  Christian  Crown  of  France  can  bear 
No  other  shew  of  Title  than  the  Kings. 

B.-F.  vin.  o  209 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  HI 

I   will   go  in   and   meditate   for   half  an   hour, 

And   then   be  ready   for  him   presently, 

I   will   convert   him  quickly,  or  confound   him. 

Serv.     Is  mad   Shattillion   here  ? 

U'"ifc.      Is  here,  and's   Lady, 
I   prethee  servant  fetch   him   hither. 

St-rv.     Why,   what  do  you  mean   to  put   him   to  ? 

U'ife.     To  chat  with   the  mad  lad  my   Husband; 
'Twill   be  brave  to  hear  them  speak,  babble, 
Stare,  and  prate. 

Bew.     But  what  shall  be  the  end  of  all  this,   Lady? 

Enter  Shattillion  and  Lady. 

Wife.     Leave  that  to  me,  now  for  the  grand  dispute, 
For  see,  here  comes  Shattillion  :   as  I  live,  methinks 
All  France  should  bear  part  of  his  griefs. 

Long.      I'll   fetch  my   Lord  the  Duke. 

Shot.     Where  am  I  now,  or  whether  will  you  lead  me  ? 
To  my  death  ?     I  crave  my  priviledge, 
I  must  not  dye,  but  by  just  course  of  Law. 

Serv.     His  Majesty  hath  sent  by  me  your  pardon, 
He  meant  not  you  should  dye  ;    but  would  intreat  you 
To  lay  the  full  state  of  your  Title  open, 
Unto  a  grave  and  Noble  Gentleman. 

Enter  Duke  and  Longovile. 

The  Duke  of  Burgundy  who  here  doth  come, 
Who,  either  by  his  wisdom  will  confute  you, 
Or  else  inform  and  satisfie  the  King. 

Bew.     May't  please  your  grace,  this  is  the  Gentleman. 

Duke.     Is  this  he  that  chops  Logick  with   my  Liege  ? 

Shat.     D'ye  mock  me?  you  are  great,  the  time  will  come, 
When  you  shall  be  as  much  contemn'd  as  I, 
Where  are  the  antient  compliments  of  France, 
The  upstarts  brave  the  Princes  of  the  bloud  ? 

Duke.     Your  Title  Sir,  in  short. 

Shat.     He  must  Sir, 

Be  a  better  States-man  than  your  self,  that  can 
Trip  me  in  any  thing,  I  will  not  speak 
Before  these  witnesses. 

2IO 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Duke.     Depart  the  room,  for  none  shall  stay, 
No,  not  my  dearest  Duchess. 

Wife.    We'll  stand  behind  the  Arras  and  hear  all.      [Exeunt. 

Duke.     In  that  chair  take  your  place,  I  in  this, 
Discourse  your  Title  now. 

Shat.     Sir,  you  shall  know, 
My  Loves  true  Title,  mine  by  Marriage, 
Setting  aside  the  first  race  of  French  Kings, 
Which  will  not  here  concern  us,  as  Pharamond, 
With  Clodian,  Meroveus,  and  Cbilperick, 
And  to  come  down  unto  the  second  Race, 
Which  we  will  likewise  slip — 

Duke.     But  take  me  with  you. 

Shat.     I  pray  you  give  me  leave,  of  Martel  Charles, 
The  Father  of  King  Pippin,  who  was,  Sire 
To  Charles  the  Great,  and  famous  Charlemain. 
And  to  come  to  the  third  Race  of  French  Kings, 
Which  will  not  be  greatly  pertinent  in  this  cause, 
Betwixt  the  King  and  me,  of  which  you  know 
HUGH  CAPET  was  the  first, 
Next  his  Son  Robert,  Henry  then,  and  Philip 
With  Lewis,  and  his  Son  a  Lewis  too, 
And  of  that  name  the  Seventh,  but  all  this 
Springs  from  a  Female,  as  it  shall  appear. 

Duke.     Now  give  me  leave,  I  grant   you  this   your  Title 
At  the  first  sight,  carries  some  shew  of  truth  ; 
But  if  ye  weigh  it  well,  ye  shall  find  light. 
Is  not  his  Majesty  possest  in  peace, 
And  justice  executed  in  his  name, 
And  can  you  think  the  most  Christian  King 
Would  do  this  if  he  saw  not  reason  for  it  ? 

Shat.     But   had  not  the  Tenth  Lewis  a  sole  Daughter  ? 

Duke.     I  cannot  tell. 

Shat.     But  answer  me  direftly. 

Duke.     It  is  a  most  seditious  question. 

Shat.     Is  this  your  justice  ? 

Duke.     I  stand  for  my  King. 

Shat.     Was  ever  Heir-apparant  thus  abus'd  ? 
I'll  have  your  head  for  this. 

Duke.     Why,  do  your  worst. 

02  2ii 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  iv 

Sbat.     Will  no  one  stir  to  apprehend  this  Traitor  ? 
A  guard  about  my  person,  will   none  come  ? 
Must  my  own   royal  hands  perform  the  deed  ? 
Then   thus  I  do  arrest  you. 

Duke.     Treason,   help. 

Enter   Wife,  Long.   Bew.  and  Serv. 

Wife.      Help,  help,  my  Lord  and   Husband. 

Duke.      Help  the  Duke. 

Long.     Forbear  his  grace's  person. 

Sbat.     Forbear  you  to  touch  him  that 
Your  Heir-apparent  weds, 
But  by  this  hand,  I  will  have  all  your  heads.  [Exit. 

Serv.      How  doth  your  Grace  ? 

Duke.     Why?  well. 

Serv.     How  do  you  find  his  Title  ? 

Duke.     'Tis  a  dangerous  one, 
As  can  come  by  a  female. 

Serv.     I,  'tis  true, 
But  the  Law  Salique  cuts  him  off  from  all. 

Long.     I  do  beseech  your  Grace,  how  stands  his  Title? 

Duke.     Pew,  nothing ;  the  Law  Salique  cuts  him  off  from  all. 

Wife.     My  gracious  Husband,  you  must  now  prepare, 
In  all  your  Graces  pomp  to  entertain 
Your  Cosin,  who  is  now  a  convertite, 
And  follows  here,  this  night  he  will  be  here. 

Duke.     Be  ready  all  in  haste,  I  do  intend, 
To  shew  before  my  Cosin's  wondring  face, 
The  greatness  of  my  pomp,  and  of  my  place.        [Exeunt  omnes. 

Affius   Quartus.     Sccena    Prlma. 

Enter  Cosin  and  his   Wife. 

Cos.    O  Irrah,  is  all  things  carried  to  the  Tailor  ? 

vj    The  measure,  and  the  fashion  of  the  Gown, 
With  the  best  trim  ? 

Man.     Yes  Sir,  and  'twill  be  ready  within  this  two  days. 

Cos.     For  my  self  I  care  not, 
I  have  a  suit  or  two  of  antient  Velvet ; 

212 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Which  with  some  small  correcting  and  addition, 

May  steal  into  the  presence.  (my  life, 

Wife.     Would  my  Gown  were  ready ;   Husband,  I'll  lay 
To  make  you  something  e'r  to  morrow  night. 

Cos.     It  must  not  be 

Before  we  see  the  Duke,  and  have  advice, 
How  to  behave  our  selves  :    lets  in  the  while, 
And  keep  our  selves  from  knowledge,  till  time  shall  call  us. 

Enter  Long,  and  Bew. 

Long.     I  much  admire  the  fierce  masculine  spirit, 
Of  this  dread  Amazon. 

Bew.     This  following  night  I'll  have  a  wench  in  solace. 

Long.     Sir,  I  hear  you, 
And  will  be  with  you  if  I  live,  no  more. 

Enter  Maria. 

Ma.     My  Lady  would  intreat  your  presence,  Gentlemen. 

Bew.     We  will  obey  your  Lady,  she  is  worthy. 

Long.     You,  light  alone,  a  word,  or  two. 

Ma.     Your  Will,  Sir.  (wilt  thou  marry? 

Long.     Hark  in  your  ear ;    wilt  thou  be  married  ?    speak, 

Ma.     Married  ?    to  whom  Sir  ? 

Long.     To  a  proper  fellow,  landed,  and  able  bodied. 

Ma.     Why  do  you  flout  me,  Sir  ?  (be  free  ? 

Long.     I  swear  I  do  not;  I  love  thee  for  thy  Ladies  sake, 

Ma.     If  I  could  meet  such  matches  as  you  speak  of, 
I  were  a  very  child  to  lose  my  time,  Sir. 

Long.     What  saist  thou  to  Monsieur  Bewfordl 

Ma.     Sir,  I  say  he's  a  proper  Gentleman,  and  far 
Above  my  means  to  look  at. 

Long.     Dost  thou  like  him  ? 

Ma.     Yes  Sir,  and  ever  did. 

Long.     He  is  thine  own. 

Ma.     You  are  too  great  in  promises. 

Long.     Be  rul'd,  and  follow  my  advice,  he  shall  be  thine. 

A4a.     Would  you  would  make  it  good,  Sir. 

Long.     Do  but  thus, 

Get  thee  a  cushion  underneath  thy  cloaths, 
And  leave  the  rest  to  me. 

213 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  iv 

Ma.     I'll   be  your  scholar, 
I   cannot  lose  much   by  the  venture  sure. 

Long.     Thou  wilt   lose  a   pretty   maidenhead,   my   ro°;ue, 
Or  I  am   much  o'th'  bow   hand,  you'll   remember 
If  all  this  take  erred,  who  did   it  for  you, 
And  what  I  may  deserve   for  such  a  kindness. 

Ma.      Yours  Sir.  [Exeunt. 

Enter  Jaques  and  Shattillion  severally. 

yaq.  Save  ye  Sir. 

Shat.  Save  the   King. 

Jaq.  I   pray  you  Sir,  which   is  the  nearest  way. 

Shat.  Save  the  King,   this  is  the  nearest  way. 

^Jaq.  Which   is  the  nearest  way  to  the   Post-house  r 

Shat.  God  save  the  King  and  his  Post-house. 

Jaq.  I  pray  Sir  direct  me  to  the  house. 

S/}[a]t.      Heaven  save  the  King,  you  cannot  catch   me,  Sir. 

Jaq.  I  do   not  understand  you,  Sir. 

Shat.  You  do  not,  I  say  you  cannot  catch   me,  Sir. 

Jaq.  Not  catch  you,  Sir  ? 

Shat.  No  Sir,  nor  can  the  Kina;, 

O" 

With  all  his  stratagems,  and  his  forced  tricks, 
Although  he  put  his  Nobles  in  disguise  5 
Never  so  oft  to  sift  into  my  words, 
By  course  of  Law,   lay  hold  upon   my  life. 

Jaq.     It  is  business  that  my  Lord  the  Duke 
Is  by  the  King  imployed  in,  and  he  thinks 
I  am  acquainted  with   it. 

Shat.     I  shall  not  need  to  rip  the  cause  up, 
From  the  first,  to  you, 
But  if  his  Majesty  had  suffer'd   me 
To  marry  her,  though  she  be  after  him, 
The  right  heir  general  to  the  Crown  of  France. 
I  would  not  have  convey'd  her  into  Spain, 
As  it  was  thought,   nor  would  I  e'er  have  joyn'd, 
With  the  reformed  Churches,  to  make  them, 
Stand  for  my  cause. 

Jaq>     I  do  not  think  you  would. 

Shat.     I  thank  you  Sir, 
And  since  I  see  you  are  a  favourer 

214 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Of  virtues,  kept  in  bondage  ; 
Tell  direftly  to  my  soveraign   King, 
For  so  I  will  acknowledge  him  for  ever, 
How  you  have  found  my  staid  affections 
Setled  for  peace,  and  for  the  present  state. 
Jaq.     Why  Sir  ? 

Shat.     And  good  Sir,  tell  him  further  this. 
That  notwithstanding  all  suggestions 
Brought  to  him  against  me,  and  all  his  suspitions, 
Which  are  innumerable  to  my  treasons, 
If  he  will  warrant  me  but  publique  trial, 
I'll  freely  yeild   my  self  into  his  hands  ; 
Can  he  have  more  than  this  ? 

Jaq.     No  by  my  troth. 

Shat.     I  would  his  Majesty  would  hear  but  reason, 
As  well  as  you. 

Jaq.     But  Sir,  you  do  mistake  me, 
For  I  never  saw  the  King. 
In  all  my  life  but  once,  therefore  good  Sir, 
May  it  please  you  to  shew  me  which   is  the  Post-house. 

Sha.     I  cry  you  mercy,  Sir,  then  you  are  my  friend. 

Jaq.     Yes  Sir. 

Sha.     And  such  men  are  very  rare  with  me, 
The  Post-house  is  hard  by,   farewel  ; 

Jaq.     I  thank  you,  Sir,  I  must  ride  hard  to  night, 
And  it  is  dark  already. 

Sha.     I  am  cruel,  to  send  this  man  dire6tly  to  his  death 
That  is  my  friend,  and  I  might  easily  save  him, 
He  shall  not  dye,  come  back,  my  friend,  come  back. 

Jaq.     What  is  your  Will  ? 

Sha.     Do  you  not  know  ? 

Jaq.      Not   I. 

Sha.     And  do  you  gather  nothing  by  my  face  ? 

Jaq.     No  Sir. 

Sha.     Virtue  is  ever  innocent, 
Lay  not  the  fault  on  me,  I  grieve  for  you, 
And  wish  that  all  my  tears  might  win  your  safety. 

Jaq.     Why  Sir  ?  ' 

Sha.     Alas  good  friend  you  are  undone, 
The  more  ill  fortune,  mine  to  be  the  means 

215 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  iv 

Of  your  sad  overthrow,  you  know  not  me. 

Jaq.      No  truly  Sir. 

Sha.     Would  you  had   never  seen   me, 
I  am  a  man   pursu'd   by  the  whole  state 
And  sure  some  one  hath  seen  me  talk  with  you. 

Jaq.     Yes,  divers  Sir. 

Sha.     Why  then  your  head   is  gone. 

Jaq.     I'll  out  of  town. 

Sha.     Would   it  were  soon   enough, 
Stay  if  you  love  your  life,  or  else  you  are  taken. 

Jaq.     What  shall  I   do  ? 

Sha.     I'll  venture  deeply  for  him, 
Rather  than  to  cast  away  an  innocent, 
Take  courage  friend,  I  will  preserve  thy  life, 
With  hazard  of  mine  own. 

Jag.     I  thank  you,  Sir. 

Sha.     This  night   thou  shalt   be  lodg'd  within  my  doors, 
Which  shall  be  all  lock'd  fast,  and  in  the  morn 
I'll  so  provide,  you  shall  have  free  access, 
To  the  Sea-side,  and  so  be  shipt  away, 
E'r  any  know  it. 

Jaq.     Good  Sir,  suddainly,  I  am  afraid  to  dye. 

Sha.     Then  follow  me.  [Exeunt. 

Enter  ShatillionV  Love. 

Love.     This  way  he  went,  and  there's  the  house,  I  hope, 
His  better  Angel  hath  directed  him, 
To  leave  the  wandring  streets,  poor  Gentleman. 
Would  I  were  able  with  as  free  a  heart, 
To  set  his  soul  right,  as  I  am  to  grieve, 
The  ruine  of  his  fame,  which  God  forgive  me  ; 
Sir,  if  you  be  within,  I  pray  Sir  speak  to  me. 

Sha.     I  am  within,  and  will  be  ;    what  are  you  ? 

Love.     A  friend. 

Sha.      No  Sir,  you  must  pardon  me, 
I  am  acquainted  with  none  such  :    be  speedy, 
Friend,  there  is  no  other  remedy. 

Love.     A  word  Sir,  I  say,  I  am  your  friend. 

Sha.     You  cannot  scape  by  any  other  means, 
Be  not  fearful,  God  save  the   King, 

216 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

What's  your  business,  Sir  ? 

Lov.     To  speak  with  you. 

Sha.     Speak  out  then. 

Lov.     Shall  I  not  come  up  ? 

Sha.     Thou  shalt  not :  flie  if  thou  be'st  thine  own  friend, 
There  lies  the  suit  and  all  the  furniture 
Belonging  to  the  head,  on  with  it  friend. 

Lov.     Sir  do  you  hear  ? 

Sha.    I  do,  God  bless  the  King, 
It  was  a  habit  I  had  laid  aside, 
For  my  own  person,  if  the  state  had  forced  me. 

Love.     Good  Sir,  unlock  your  door.  (ambush 

Sha.     Be   full   of  speed,   I    see   some    20    Musquetiers    in 
Whate'r  thou  art,  know  I  am  here  and  will  be, 
Seest  thou  this  bloody  sword  that  cries  revenge  ? 
Shake  not  my  friend,  through  millions  of  these  foes 
I'll  be  thy  guard,  and  set  thee  safe  aboard. 

Lov.     Dare  you  not  trust  me,  Sir  ? 

Sha.     My  good  sword  before  me, 
And  my  allegeance  to  the  King  I  tell  thee 
Captain  (for  so  I  ghess  thee  by  thy  Arms) 
And  the  loose  flanks  of  Halberdiers  about  thee, 
Thou  art  too  weak,  and  foolish  to  attempt  me. 
If  you  be  ready,  follow  me,  and  hark  you 
Upon  your  life  speak  to  no  living  wight, 
Except  my  self. 

Love.     Monsieur  Shattillion  ? 

Sha.     Thou  shalt  not  call  agen  ;   thus  with  my  sword, 
And  the  strong  faith  I  bear  unto  the  King  ; 
Whom  God  preserve,  I  will  de[sc]end  my  chamber, 
And  cut  thy  throat,  I  swear  I'll  cut  thy  throat, 
Steal  after  me  and  live. 

Love.     I   will  not  stay. 
The  fury  of  a  man  so  far  distradled.  [Exit  Love. 

Enter  Shattillion. 

Where's  the  Officer  that  dares  not  enter, 

To  intrap  the  life  of  my  distressed  friend  ? 

I,  have  you  hid  your  self?    you  must  be  found, 

What  do  you  fear  ?    is  not  authority  on  your  side 

217 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  iv 

Nay,  I   know  the  Kings  command 

Will   be  your  warrant,  why  then   fear  you  ?    speak 

What  strange  designs  are   these  ?      Shattillion^ 

Be  resolute  and   bear  thy  self  upright, 

Though   the  whole  world  despise  thee  :    soft,  methinks. 

I  heard  a  rushing  which  was  like  the  shake 

Of  a  discovered  Officer,  I'll  search 

The  whole  street  over,  but  I'll  find  thee  out.  [Exit. 

Enter  Jaques  in  womans  apparel. 

yaq.     How  my  joynts  do  shake,  where  had  I  been 
But  for  this  worthy   Gentleman,  that 
Hath  some  touch  of  my  infortunes  ;    would  I  were 
Safe  under  hatches  once,   for  Callicut^ 
Farewel  the  pomp  of  Court,  I  never  more 
Can  hope  to  be  a  Duke  or  any  thing, 
I   never  more  shall  see  the  glorious  face 
Of  my  fair  spreading  Lord  that  lov'd  me  well. 

Enter  Shattillion. 

Shat.      Fly  you  so  fast  ?    I  had  a  sight  of  you, 
But  would  not  follow  you  ;    I  was  too  wise, 
You  shall  not  lead  me  with  a  cunning  trick  ; 
Where  you  may  catch  me  ;    poor   Shattillion  ; 
Hath  the  Kings  anger  left  thee  never  a  friend  ? 
No,  all  mens  loves  move  by  the  breath  of  Kings. 

yaq.     It  is  the  Gentleman  that  sav'd  my  life,  Sir. 

Shat.     Bless  Shattillion^  another  plot. 

yaq.     No  Sir,  'tis  I. 

Shat.     Why,  who  are  you  ? 

yaq.     Your  friend  whom  you  preserv'd. 

Shat.     Whom  I   preserv'd  ? 

My  friend  ?     I  have  no  woman   friend  but  one, 
Who  is  too  close  in  prison  to  be  here  ; 
Come  near,  let  me  look  on  you. 

<~Y  »T»'         T 

Jaq.        1  is  1. 

Shat.     You  should  not  be  a  woman  by  your  stature. 
yaq.     I  am  none,  Sir. 
Shat.     I  know  it,  then  keep  off, 
Strange  men  and  times  !    how  I  am  still  preserv'd  ! 

218 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Here  they  have  sent  a  yeoman  of  the  guard, 

Disguis'd  in   womans  clothes,  to  work  on  me, 

To  make  love  to  me  ;    and   to  trap  my  words, 

And  so  insnare  my  life,  I  know  you,  Sir, 

Stand  back,  upon  your  peril,  can  this  be 

In   Christian   Common-weals,  from  this  time  forth 

I'll  cut  off  all  the  means  to  work  on  me, 

I'll  ne'er  stir  from  my  house  :    and  keep  my  doors 

Lockt  day  and  night,  and  cheapen  meat  and  drink 

At  the  next  shops  by  Signs,  out  of  my  window, 

And  having  bought  it,  draw  it  up  in  my  garters. 

yaq.     Sir,  will  you  help  me  ? 

Shat.     Do  not  follow  me, 
I'll  take  a  course  to  live,  despight  of  men.  [Exit  Shat. 

Jaq.     He  dares  not  venture  for  me,  wretched  Jaques  \ 
Thou  art  undone  for  ever  and  for  ever, 
Never  to  rise  again  ?    what  shall  I  do  ? 

Enter  Bewfort. 

Where  shall  I  hide  me  ?    here's  one  to  take  me, 
I  must  stand  close,  and  not  speak  for  my  life. 

Bew.     This  is  the  time  of  night,  and  this  the  haunt, 
In  which  I  use  to  catch  my  Wastcoatiers, 
It  is  not  very  dark,  no,  I  shall  spie  'em, 
I  have  walk't  out  in  such  a  pitchy  night. 
I  could  not  see  my  fingers  this  far  off, 
And  yet  have  brought  home  venison  by  the  smell, 
I  hope  they  have  not  left  their  old  walk,  ah  ? 
Have  I  spied  you  sitting  by  this  light  ? 
To  me  there's  no  such  fine  sight  in  the  world, 
As  a  white  apron  'twixt  twelve  and  one ; 
See  how   it  glisters  !    do  you  think  to  scape  ? 
See  now  I  have  you  fast ;    come,  and  do  not  strive, 
It  takes  away  the  edge  of  appetite  ; 

Come,  I'll   be  liberal  every  way.  [Exeunt. 

Take  heed  you  make  no  noise,   for  waking  of  the  Watch. 

Enter  Co  sin  and  his   Wife. 

Cos.     Now  the  blessing  of  some  happy  guide, 
To  bring  us  to  the  Duke,  and  we  are  ready. 

219 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  iv 

Enter  Long,  and  Servant. 

Come  forward,  see  the  door  is  open'd, 

And  two  of  his  Gent.   I'll  speak  to  them, 

And  mark  how  I   behave  my  self,  God  save  ye  ; 

For  less  I  cannot  wish  to  men  of  sort,  and  of  your  seeming: 

Are  you  of  the  Dukes  ? 

Long.     We  are,  Sir,  and  your  servants,  your  salutes, 
We  give  you  back  again  with  many  thanks. 

Cos.     When  did  you  hear  such  words  before  Wife  ?  peace, 
Do  you  not  dare  to  answer  yet ;    is't  fit 
So  mean  a  Gentleman  as  my  self  should  crave, 
The  presence  of  the  great  Duke  your  Master  ? 

Serv.     Sir  you  may. 

Long.     Shall  we  desire  your  name,  and  business,  Sir  ? 
And  we  will  presently  inform  him  of  you. 

Cos.     My  name  is  Cleremont. 

Serv.     You  are  his  Graces  kinsman, 
Or  I  am  much  mistaken  ? 

Cos.     You  are  right, 

Some  of  his  noble  bloud  runs  through  these  veins, 
Though  far  unworthy  of  his  graces  knowledge. 

Long.     Sir,  we  must  all  be  yours  ;    his  graces  kinsman, 
And  we  so  much  forgetful  ?    'twas  a  rudeness, 
And  must  attend  your  pardon,  thus  I  crave  it  : 
First  to  this  beauteous  Lady,  whom  I  take 
To  be  your  Wife,  Sir,  next  your  mercy. 

Cos.     You  have  it,  Sir,  I  do  not  like  this  kissing, 
It  lies  so  open  to  a  world  of  wishes. 

Serv.     This  is  the  merry  fellow  ;    this  is  he 
That  must  be  noble  too. 

Long.     And  so  he  shall. 
If  all  the  Art  I  have  can  make  him  noble, 
I'll  dub  him  with  a  Knight-hood  ;    if  his  wife 
Will  be  but  forward,  and  joyn  issue, 
I  like  her  above  excellent. 

Serv.     Wil't  please  you 

To  walk  a  turn  or  two,  whilst  to  the  Duke 
We  make  your  comming  known  ?  [Exit  Serv.  and  Long. 

Cos.     I  shall  attend,  Sir. 

22O 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Wife.     These  Gentlemen  are  very  proper  men, 
And  kiss  the  best  that  e'er  I  tasted. 
For  goodness-sake  husband,  let  us  never  more 
Come  near  the  Countrey,  whatsoe'er  betide  us  ; 
I  am  in  malice  with  the  memory 
Of  that  same  stinking  dung-hil. 

Cos.     Why  now  you  are  my  chicken  and  my  dear, 
Love  where  I  love,  hate  where  I  hate  :    now 
You  shall  have  twenty  Gowns,  and  twenty  Chains, 
See,  the  door  is  opening. 

Groom.     Room  afore  there,  the  Duke  is  entring. 

Enter  Duke,   Wife,  Long.   Servant^  Maria. 

Cos.     'Tis  the  Duke,  even  he  himself,  be  merry, 
This  is  the  golden  age  the  Poet  speaks  on. 

Wife.     I  pray  it  be  not  brazen'd  by  their  faces, 
And  yet  methinks  they  are  the  neatest  Pieces 
For  shape,  and  cutting  that  e'er  I  beheld. 

Cos.     Most  gracious  Duke,  my  poor  Spouse  and  my  self, 
Do  kiss  your  mighty  foot,  and  next  to  that 
The  great  hand  of  your  Dutchess,  ever  wishing 
Your  honors  ever  springing,  and  your  years. 

Duke.      Cosin  ? 

Cos.     Your  Graces  vassal,  far  unworthy 
The  nearness  of  your  blood. 

Duke.     Correct  me  not,  I  know  the  word  I  speak, 
And  know  the  person. 

Though  I  be  something  higher  than  the  place 
Where  common  men  have  motion,  and  descending 
Down  with  my  eye,  their  forms  are  lessened  to  me  ; 
Yet  from  this  pitch  can  I   behold  my  own, 
From  millions  of  those  men  that  have  no  mark, 
And  in  my  fearful  stoop,  can  make  them  stand, 
When  others  feel  my  feet,  and  perish  :    Cosin, 
Be  comforted,  you  are  very  welcome,  so 
Is  your  fair  Wife  :    the  charge  of  whom  I  give 
To  my  own  dearest,  and  best  beloved. 
Tell  me,  you  have  resolv'd  your  self  for  Court, 
And  utterly  renounc'd  the  slavish  Countrey, 
With  all  the  cares  thereof? 

221 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  iv 

Cos.     I  have,  Sir. 

Duke.     Have  you  dismist  your  eating  houshold, 
Sold  your  hangings  of  Nebuchadnezar^  for  such  they  were, 
As  I  remember,  with  the  Furnitures 
Belonging  to  your  Beds  and  Chambers  ? 

Cos.     I  Sir. 

Duke.     Have  you  most  carefully  ta'en  off  the  Lead, 
From  you[r]   roof,  weak  with  age,  and  so  prevented 
The  ruin  of  your  house,  and  clapt  him 
In  a  summer  suit  of  thatch  to  keep  him  cool  ? 

Cos.     All  this  I  have  perform'd.  (Cosin 

Duke.     Then  lend  me  all  your  hands,  I  will  embrace  my 
Who  is  an  understanding  Gentleman, 
And  with  a  zeal  mighty,  as  is  my  name, 
Once  more  I  bid  you  welcome  to  the  Court ; 
My  state  again. 

Duch.     As  I  was  telling  you,  your  Husband 
Must  be  no  more  Commander,  look  to  that, 
Be  several  at  meat,  and  lodging,  let  him  have 
Board-wages,  and  Diet,  'mongst  his  men  i'th'  Town 
For  pleasure,  if  he  be  given  to't,  let  him  have  it, 
Else  as  your  own  fancy  shall  dire6t  you. 
Cosin,  you  see  this  mighty  man  here  :    he  was  an  ass 
When  he  came  first  to  Town  :    indeed  he  was 
Just  such  another  coxcomb  as  your  Husband, 
God  bless  the  mark,  and  every  good  mans  child  ! 
This  must  not  stir  you  Cosin. 

Wif.     Heaven  forbid  ! 

Long.     Sweet  Maria  ;    provide  the  cushion  ready  for  it. 

Mar.     It  shall  be  done. 

Duke.     Receive  all  your  advices  from  our  self, 
Be  once  a  day  with  us,  and  so  farewel 
For  this  time,  my  fair  Cosin,  Gentlemen 
Conduct  him  to  his  Lodging. 

Duch.     Farewel,  and  think  upon  my  words. 

Wife.     I  shall  observe  them.  [Exit  Duke  and  Duchess. 

Cos.     Health,  and  the  Kings  continual  love,  attend   you. 

Serv.     Oh  for  a  private  place  to  ease  my  Lungs  ! 
Heaven  give  me  patience,  such  a  pair  of  jades 
Were  never  better  ridden  to  this  hour, 

222 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Pray  heaven  they  hold  out  to  the  journeys  end. 

Long.     Twitch  him  aside  good  Monsieur,  whilst  I  break 
Upon  the  body  of  his  strength,  his  wife, 
I  have  a  constant  promise  :    she  is  my  own. 

Serv.     Ply  her  to  wind-ward  Monsieur,  you  have  taken 
The  most  compendious  way  to  raise  your  self, 
That  could  have  been  delivered  by  a  Counsel. 

Cos.     I  have  some  certain  aims,  Sir  :    but  my  wife — 

Serv.     Your  wife,  you  must  not  let  that  trouble  you. 

Cos.     It  will  Sir,  to  see  her  in  a  strangers  arms. 

Serv.  What  mean  you?  let  her  alone,  be  wise,  stir  not  a  foot 
For  if  you  do,  all  your  hopes  are  buried  : 
I  swear  you  are  a  lost  man  if  you  stir. 

Cos.     I  thank  you  Sir,  I  will  be  more  advis'd. 

Serv.     But  what  great  Office  do  you  level  at  ? 

Cos.     Sir,  they  are  kissing. 

Serv.     Let  them  kiss, 

And  much  may  do  their  good  hearts  ;    they  must  kiss 
And  kiss,  and  double  kiss,  and  kiss  again, 
Or  you  may  kiss  the  post  for  any  rising  : 
Had  your  noble  kinsman  ever  mounted 
To  these  high  Spheres  of  honor,  now  he  moves  in, 
But  for  the  kisses  of  his  wife  ? 

Cos.     I  know  not. 

Serv.     Then  I  do  ;    credit  me,  he  had  been  lost, 
A  fellow  of  no  mark,  and  no  repute. 
Had  not  his  wife  kist  soon,  and  very  sweetly  : 
She  was  an  excellent  woman,  and  dispatcht  him 
To  his  full  being,  in  a  moment,  Sir —     [Exit  Long,  and  Wife. 

Cos.     But  yet  methinks  he  [shjould  not  take  her,  Sir, 
Into  a  private  room. 

Serv.     Now  stand  and  flourish, 
You  are  a  mad[e]  man  for  ever. 
I  do  envy  you  if  you  stand  your  fortunes  up, 
You  are  the  happiest  man,  but  your  great  Cosin, 
This  day  in  Court  :    well,  I  will  marry  surely, 
And  not  let  every  man  out-run  me  thus. 
JTis  time  to  be  mine  own  friend,  I  live 
In  town  here,  and  direct  the  readiest  way, 
To  other  men,  and  be  a  slave  my  self. 

223 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  iv 

Cos.      Nay,  good   Sir  be  not  mov'd,   I   am  your  servant, 
And   will   not  be  ungrateful   for  this  knowledge. 

Serv.     Will  you   be  walking  home  ? 

Cos.     I  would  desire  to  have  my  wife  along. 

Serv.      You  are  too  raw, 

Begone,  and  take  no  notice  where  you  left   her, 
Let  her  return  at  leasure,  if  she  stay 
A  month,  'twill  be  the  better,  understand  me 
This  Gentleman  can  do't.  [Exit  Cosin. 

Cos.     I  will  Sir,  and  wife  remember  me,  a  Duke,  a  Duke  wife. 

Serv.     Aboard  her  Longaveile,  she's  thine  own, 
To  me  the  fooling  of  this  fool  is  venery.          [Exit  Servant. 

Enter  Bewford  and  Jaques. 

Bew .     Come,  prethee  come,  have  I  not  crowns  ?    behold 
And  follow  me,  here  ;    not  a  word,  go  in 
Grope  by  the  walls,  and  you  shall  find  a  bed, 
Lie  down  there,  see,  see,  a  turn  or  two,  to  give 
My  blood  some  heats,  and  I  am  presently 
For  action  :    darkness,  by  thy  leave,  I  come.          [Exit  Bew. 

Enter  Maria. 

Ma.     I  am  perfect  in  my  lesson,  be  my  speed, 
Thou  god  of  marriage,  this  is  the  door,  I'll  knock. 
Bew.  within.     Whose  there,  I  cannot  come  yet. 
Ma.     Monsieur  Bewford  ? 

Bew.     Stay  till  I  light  a  candle,  who  are  ye  ? 
Ma.     Sir  ?    a  poor  Gentlewoman. 

Enter  Bewford. 

Bew.  Oh  come  in,  I'll  find  a  time  for  you  too,  be  not  loud. 

Ma.  Sir,  you  have  found  that  time  already,  shame 
On  my  soul  therefore. 

Bew.  Why  ?    what's  the  matter  ? 

Ma.  Do  you  not  see,  Sir,  is  your  light  so  dim  ? 

Bew .  Do  you  not  wait  on  the  Lady  Mount  Marine  ? 

Ma.  I  do  Sir,  but  my  love  on  you. 

Bew.  Poor  soul  !    how  cam'st  thou  by  this  big  belly  ? 

Ma.  By  your  self. 

Bew.  By  heaven  I  ne'er  touch'd  your  body. 

224 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Ma.     Yes,  unswear  that  oath  again,  I'll  tell  you  all ; 
These  two  years  I  have  lov'd  you,  but  the  means 
How  to  enjoy  you,  I  did  never  know 
Till  Twelf-night  last,  when  hearing  of  your  game 
To  take  up  wenches  private  in  the  night, 
I  apprehended  straight  this  course  to  make 
My  self  as  one  of  them,  and  wait  your  coming  ; 
I  did  so,  and  enjoyed  you,  and  now  this  child 
That  now  is  quick  within  me,  hide  my  shame, 
And  marry  me,  or  else  I  must  be  forc'd — 
Long,  within.     Monsieur  Bewford,  Monsieur  Bewford. 

Bew.     Whose  that  calls  ? 

Long.     Are  you  a  bed  ? 

Bew.     No  Sir,  the  hangings. 

Enter  Longaveil. 

Long.     Nay  Monsieur,  I'll  forbid  that,  we'll  have  fair  play, 
Lend  me  your  candle,  are  you  taken  Bewford  ? 
A  lecher  of  your  practice,  and  close  carriage 
To  be  discovered  thus  ?     I  am  asham'd 
So  great  a  master  in  his  art  should  fail, 
And  stagger  in  his  grounds. 

Bew.     You're  wide, 

This  woman  and  my  self  are  man  and  wife, 
And  have  been  so  this  half  year, 
Where  are  you  now  ?    have  I  been  discover'd  ? 
You  cannot  break  so  easily  on  me,  Sir, 
I  am  too  wary  to  be  open'd  by  you. 

Long.     But  these  are  but  illusions,  to  give  colour 
To  your  most  mystick  leachery,  but  Sir, 
The  belly  hath  betraid  you  all,  it  must  out. 

Bew.     Good  Longaveil  believe  me  on  my  faith, 
I  am  her  husband. 

Long.     On  my  faith  I  cannot,  unless  I  saw 
Your  hands  fast,  and  your  hearts. 

Bew.     Why  Longavile,  when  did  I  give  that  to  your  ears, 
That  was  not  truth  ?    by  all  the  world  she's  mine, 
She  is  my  wife,  and  to  confirm  you  better 
I  give  my  self  again,  here  take  my  hand 
And  I  yours,  we  are  once  more  married, 

B.-F.  vin.  p  225 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  v 

Will  this  content  you  ? 

Long.     Yes  I  am  believing,  and  God  give  you  joy. 

Bew.     My  loving  wife,  I  will  not  wrong  thee, 
Since  I  am  thine  and  only  loved  of  thee 
From  this  hour  I  vow  my  self  a  new  man, 
Be  not  jealous  :    for  though  I  had  a  purpose, 
To  have  spent  an  hour  or  two  in  solace  otherwise, 
And  was  provided  for  it,  yet  my  love 
Shall  put  a  better  temper  to  my  blood, 
Come  out  thou  woman  of  unwholsome  life, 
Be  sorry  for  thy  sins,  and  learn  to  mend, 
Nay,  never  hide  your  face,  you  shall  be  seen. 

Long.     Jaques,  why  Jaques^  art  thou  that  jfaques, 
The  very  stafFe,  and  right  hand  of  our  Duke  ? 
Speak,  thou  bearded   Venus. 

Jaq.     I  am  he,  by  miracle  preserv'd  to  be  that  Jaques^ 
Within  this  two  hours  Gentlemen,  poor  Jaques 
Was  but  as  coarse  in  grave  :    a  man  of  wisdom, 
That  of  my  conscience,  if  he  had  his  right 
Should  have  a  pretty  State,  but  that's  all  one 
That  Noble  Gentleman  did  save  this  life, 
I  keep  it  for  him,  'tis  his  own.  (the  Duke 

Long.     Oh  Bacchus  \  is  all  the  world  drunk  ?  come  we'll  to 
And  give  thanks  for  this  delivery. 

Aftus  Quintus.     Sctena  Prima. 

Enter  Duke  and  Jaques. 

Duke.    "V  '"  Ot  gone  unto  my  Tenants  to  relate 

\     My  Grace  and  Honor ;    [and]   the  mightiness 
Of  my  new  name,  which  would  have  struck  a  terror 
Through  their  course  doublets,  to  their  very  hearts  ? 

Jag.     Alas,  great  Lord  and  Master,  I  could  scarce 
With  safety  of  my  life  return  again 
Unto  your  graces  house,  and  but  for  one 
That  had  some  mercy,  I  had  sure  been  hang'd. 

Duke.     My  house  ? 

J[a\q.     Yes  Sir,  this  house,  your  house  i'  th'  Town. 

Duke.     Jaques  we  are  displeas'd,  hath  it  no  name  ? 

226 


Sc.  i      THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Jaq.     What  name  ? 

Duke.     Dull  rogue  ;    what  hath  the  King  bestow'd 
So  many  honors,  open'd  all  his  springs, 
And  show'red  his  graces  down  upon  my  head, 
And  has  my  house  no  name  ?    no  title  yet  ? 
Burgundy  house  you  ass. 

Jaq.     Your  graces  mercy, 
And  when  I  was  come  off,  and  had  recovered 
Burgundy  house,  I  durst  not  yet  be  seen, 
But  lay  all  night  for  fear  of  pursevants 
In  Burgundy  privie  house. 

Duke.     Oh  Sir,  'tis  well, 
Can  you  remember  now  ?    but  Jaques  know 
Since  thy  intended  journey  is  so  crost, 
I  will  go  down  my  self  this  morning. 

yaq.     Sir  ? 

Duke.     Have  I  not  said  this  morning  ? 

Jaq.     But   consider, 

That  nothing  is  prepared  yet  for  your  journey, 
Your  graces  teams  not  here  to  draw  your  cloaths ; 
And  not  a  Carrier  yet  in  town  to  send  by. 

Duke.     I  say  once  more  go  about  it, 
You're  a  wise  man,  you'd  have  me  linger  time, 
Till  I  have  worn  these  cloaths  out:    will  ye  go?     [Ex.  Jaq 
Make  ye  ready  Wife. 

Enter   Wife. 

Due.     I  am  so,  mighty  Duke. 

Duke.     Nay,  for  the  Countrey. 

Due.     How  ?    for  the  Countrey  ? 

Duke.    Yes  I  am  resolv'd  to  see  my  Tenants  in  this  bravery, 
Make  them  a  sumptuous  feast,  with  a  slight  shew, 
Of  Dives  and  Lazarus,  and  a  squib  or  two, 
And  so  return. 

Due.     Why  Sir  ?    you  are  not  mad  ? 

Duke.    How  many  Dukes  have  ye  known  mad?  I  pray  speak. 

Due.     You  are  the  first,  Sir,  and  I  hope  the  last, 
But  you  are  stark  horn-mad. 

Duke.     Forbear  good  wife. 

Due.     As  I  have  faith  you're  mad :    your  horns 

p  2  227 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  v 

Have  been  too  heavy  for  you,  and  have  broke 
Your  skull   in   pieces  :    If  you   be   in  earnest. 

Duke.     Well,  you  shall  know  my  skull  and  wits  are  whole 
E'r  I  have  done,  and  yet  I  am  in  earnest. 

Due.      Why,   do  you  think  I'll  go  ? 

Duke.     I  know   you  shall. 

Due.     I  shall  ?    by  what  authority  shall  I  ? 

Duke.     I  am  your  Husband. 

Due.     True,  I  confess  it, 

And  by  that  name,  the  world  hath  given  you 
A  power  to  sway  me  ;    but  Sir,  you  shall  know 
There  is  a  greater  bond  that  ties  me  here, 
Allegeance  to  the  King,  has  he  not  heapt 
Those  honors  on  you  to  no  other  end, 
But  to  stay  you  here,  and  shall  I  have  a  hand 
In  the  offending  such  a  gracious  Prince  ? 
Besides,  our  own  undoings  lies  upon't, 
Were  there  no  other  cause,  I  do  not  see, 
Why  you  should  go  :    If  I  should  say  you  should  not. 

Duke.     Do  you  think  so  ? 

Due.     Yes  faith. 

Duke.     Now  good  wife  make  me  understand   that  point. 

Due.     Why  that  you  shall,  did  I  not  bring  you  hither? 

Duke.     Yes.  (fire  by  me  ? 

Due.     And  were  not  all  these  honors  wrought  out  of  the 

Duke.     By  you  ? 

Due.     By  me  ?    how  strange  you  make  it ! 
When  you  came  first,  did  you  not  walk  the  Town, 
In  a  long  Cloak  half  compass  ?    an  old  Hat, 
Lin'd  with  Vellure,  and  on  it  for  a  band, 
A  skein  of  crimson  Cruil  ? 

Duke.     I  confess  it. 

Due.     And  took  base  courses  ? 

Duke.     Base  ?  (strous  base. 

Due.     Base,  by  this  light,  extream  base,  and  scurvie,  mon- 

Du[k~\e.     What  were  these  courses,  wife  ? 

Due.     Why,  you  shall  know, 
Did  you  not  thus  attir'd,  trot  up  and  down, 
Plotting  for  vild  and  lowsie  Offices, 
And  agreed  with  the  Sergeant  of  the  Bears, 

228 


Sc.  i     THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

To  buy  his  place  ?    deny  this,  if  you  can. 

Duke.      Why  it  is  true. 

Due.     And  was  not  that  monstrous  base  ? 

Duke.     Be  advis'd  wife,  a  Bear's  a  Princely  beast. 

Due.     A  Bear? 

Duke.     Yes  wife,  and  one  side  venison. 

Due.     You're  more  than  one  side  fool,  [I'm]  sure  of  that. 

Duke.     But  since  you  have  vext  me  wife,  know  you  shall  go; 
Or  you  shall  never  have  penny  from  me. 

Due.     Nay,  I  have  done,  and  though  I  know  'twill  be 
Your  overthrow,  I'll  not  forsake  you  now. 

Duke.     Be  ready  then.  [Exit  Duke. 

Due.     I  will. 

Enter  Bewf.  Long.  Serv.  Maria. 

Long.     What  are  you  married  Bewford  ?        (can  make  us. 

Bew.     I,  as  fast  as  words,  and  hearts,  and  hands,  and  Priest 

Due.     Oh   Gentlemen,  we  are  undone. 

Long.     For  what  ? 

Due.     This  Gentleman,  the  Lord  of  Lor\n\e,  my  Husband, 
Will  be  gone  down  to  shew  his  play-fellows 
Where  he  is  gay. 

Bew.     What,  down  into  [the]   Countrey  ? 

Due.     Yes  faith,  was  ever  fool  but  he  so  cross  ? 
I  would  as  fain  be  gracious  to  him, 
As  he  could  wish  me,  but  he  will  not  let  me  ; 
Speak  faithfully,  will  he  deserve  my  mercy  ? 

Long.     According  to  his  merits  he  should  wear, 
A  guarded  coat,  and  a  great  wooden   dagger. 

Due.     If  there  be  any  woman  that  doth  know, 
The  duties  'twixt  a  Husband  and  his  wife, 
Will  speak  but  one  word  for  him,  he  shall  scape  ; 
Is  not  that  reasonable  ?    but  there's  none, 
Be  ready  therefore,  to  pursue  the  plot 
We  had  against  a  pinch,  for  he  must  stay. 

Long.     Wait  you  here  for  him,  whilst  I  goe 
And  make  the  King  acquainted  with  your  sport, 
For  fear  he  be  incens'd  for  our  attempting 
Places  of  so  great  honor.  [Exit  Long. 

Due.     Go,  be  speedy. 

229 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  v 


Enter  Duke,   Cosin,   IVife^  Jaques,   Man. 

Duke.     Come  let  me  see  how  all  things  are  dispos'd  of. 

Jaq.      One  Cart  will  serve  for  all  your  furniture, 
With   room  enough   behind  to  ease  the  Footman, 
A  capcase  for  you[r]  linnen,  and  your  plate, 
With  a  strange  lock  that  opens  with  Amen, 
For  my  young  Lord,  because  of  easie  portage, 
A  quiver  of  your  graces  lin'd  with  Cunney, 
Made  to  be  hang'd  about  the  Nurses  neck, 
Thus,  with  a  Scarfe  or  Towel. 

Duke.      Very  good. 

Jaq.     Nay,  'tis  well,  but  had  you  staid  another  week, 
I  would  have  had  you  furnisht,  in  such  pomp, 
As  never  Duke  of  Burgundy  was  furnisht, 
You  should  have  had  a  Sumpter,  though  't  had  cost  me 
The  laying  on  my  self,  where  now  you  are  fain, 
To  hire  a  Rippers  mare,  and  buy  new  dossers, 
But  I  have  got  them  painted  with  your  Arms, 
With  a  fair  darnex  Carpet  of  my  own 
Laid  cross  for  the  more  state. 

Duke.     Jaques  I  thank  you  :    your  Carpet  shall  be  brusht 
And  sent  you  home  ;    what,  are  you  ready  wife  ? 

Due.     An  hour  ago. 

Duke.     I  cannot  chuse  but  kiss  thy  royal  Lips, 
Dear  Duchess  mine,  thou  art  so  good  a  woman. 

Bew.     Youl'd  say  so  if  you  knew  all,  goodman  Duckling. 

Cos.     This  was  the  happiest  fortune  could  befal  me 
Now  in  his  absence  will  I  follow  close 
Mine  own  preferment,  and  I  hope  e'r  long, 
To  make  my  mean  and  humble  name  so  strong, 
As  my  great  Cosins,  when  the  world  shall  know, 
I  bear  too  hot  a  spirit  to  live  low. 
The  next  Spring  will  I  down,  my  wife  and  houshold, 
I'll  have  my  Ushers,  and  my  four  Lacquies, 
Six  spare  Caroches  too,  but  mum,  no  more, 
What  I  intend  to  do,  I'll  keep  in  store. 

Duke.     Mountey,  mountey,  Jaques,  be  our  Querry. 

Groom.     To  horse  there  Gentlemen,  and  fall  in  couples. 

Duke.     Come  honoured  Duchess. 

230 


Sc.  i     THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Enter  Longavile. 

Long.     Stand  thou  proud  man. 

Duke.     Thieves,  Jaquesy  raise  the  people. 

Long.     No,  raise  no  people,  'tis  the  Kings  command, 
Which  bids  thee  once  more  stand,  thou  haughty  man, 
Thou  art  a  monster,  for  thou  art  ungrateful, 
And  like  a  fellow  of  a  rebel  nature, 
Hast  flung  from  his  embraces  :    and  for 
His  honors  given  thee,  hast  not  returned 
So  much  as  thanks,  and  to  oppose  his  Will, 
Resolv'd  to  leave  the  Court,  and  set  the  Realm 
A  fire,  in  discontent,  and  open  action  : 
Therefore  he  bids  thee  stand,  thou  proud  man, 
Whilst  with  the  whisking  of  my  sword  about, 
I  take  thy  honors  off:    this  first  sad  whisk 
Takes  off  thy  Dukedom,  thou  art  but  an  Earl. 

Duke.      You  are  mistaken,  Longavile. 

Long.     Oh  would  I  were  :    this  second  whisk  divides 
Thy  Earldom  from  thee,  thou  art  yet  a  Baron. 

Duke.     No  more  whisks  if  you  love  me  Longavile. 

Long.     Two  whisks  are  past,  and  two  are  yet  behind, 
Yet  all  must  come,  but  not  to  linger  time. 
With  these  two  whisks  I  end,  now  mount  Marine, 
For  thou  art  now  no  more,  so  says  the  King, 
And  I  have  done  his  Highness  Will  with  grief. 

Duke.     Degraded  from  my  honors  ? 

Long.     'Tis  too  certain. 

Duke.     I  am  no  Traitor  sure,  that  I  know  of; 
Speak  Jaques,  hast  thou  ever  heard  me  utter  word 
Tending  to  Treason,  or  to  bring  in  the  enemy? 

Jaq.     Alas  Sir,  I   know  nothing, 

Why  should  your  Worship  bring  me  in  to  hang  me  ? 
[God's  my  judge  Gentlemen]  I  never  medled 
But  with  the  brushing  of  his  cloaths,  or  fetching 
In  water  in  a  morning  for  his  hands. 

Cos.     Are  these  the  honors  of  this  place  ?     Anthony 
Help  me  to  take  her  Gown  off  quickly, 
Or  I'll  so  swinge  ye  for't — 

Wife.     Why  Husband?    Sir? 

231 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  v 

Cos.     I'll  not  loose  a  penny  by  this  town. 

Long.    Why  what  do  you  mean,  Sir,  have  her  to  her  lodging, 
And  there  undress  her,  I  will  wait  upon  her. 

Cos.      Indeed  you  shall   not,  your  month   is  out  I  take  it, 
Get  you  out  before  me  wife  : 
Cosin  farewel,  I  told  you  long  agoe, 
That  pride  begins  with  pleasure,  ends  with  woe. 

[Exit  witb's  Wife. 

Bew.     Goe  thy  way  sentences,  'twill  be  thy  fortune, 
To  live  and  dye  a  Cuckold,  and  Churchwarden. 

Due.     Oh  my  poor  Husband  !    what  a  heavy  fortune 
Is  fallen  upon  him  ! 

Bew.     Methinks  'tis  strange, 

That  heaven  fore-warning  great  men  of  their  falls, 
With  such  plain  tokens,  they  should  not  avoid  'em  : 
For  the  last  night  betwixt  eleven  and  twelve, 
Two  great  and  hideous  blazing  stars  were  seen 
To  fight  a  long  hour  by  the  clock,  the  one 
Drest  like  a  Duke,  the  other  like  a  King; 
Till  at  the  last  the  crowned  Star  o'er-came. 

Serv.     Why  do  ye  stand  so  dead,  Monsieur  Marine  ? 

Duke.     So  Ctesar  fell,  when   in  the  Capitol 
They  gave  his  body  two  and  thirty  wounds. 
Be  warned  all  ye  Peers,  and  by  my  fall, 
Hereafter  learn  to  let  your  wives  rule  all. 

Serv.     Monsieur  Marine,  pray  let  me  speak  with  you  ; 
Sir,  I  must  wave  you  to  conceal  this  party, 
It  stands  upon  my  utter  overthrow  ; 
Seem  not  discontented,  nor  do  not  stir  afoot, 
For  if  you  do,  you  and  your  hope — 
I  swear  you  are  a  lost  man  if  you  stir. 
And  have  an  eye  to  Bewford,  he'll  tempt  you. 

Bew.     Come,  come,  for  shame  go  down  ; 
Were  I  Marine,  [by  heaven]   I  would  go  down  : 
And  being  there,  I  would  rattle  him  such  an  answer 
Should  make  him  smoke. 

Duke.     Good  Monsieur  Bewford,  peace 
Leave  these  rebellious  words, 
Or  by  the  honors  which  I  once  enjoyed, 
And  yet  may  swear  by, 

232 


Sc.  i     THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

I'll  tell  the  King  of  your  proceedings  ; 
I  am  satisfied. 

Wife.     You  talkt  of  going  down  when  'twas  not  fit, 
But  now  let's  see  your  spirit, 
A  thousand  and  a  thousand  will  expect  it. 

Duke.     Why  wife,  are  ye  mad  ?  (strength. 

Wife.     No,  nor  drunk,  but  I'd  have  you  know  your  own 

Duke.     You  talke  like  a  most  foolish  woman,  wife  ; 
I  tell  you  I  will  stay,  yet  I  have  a 
Crotchet  troubles  me. 

Long.     More  crotchets  yet  ? 

Duke.     Follow  me  Jaques,  I  must  have  thy  counsel, 
I  will  return  again,  stay  you  there  wife.  (stools. 

Long.     I  fear  this  loss  of  honor  will  give  him  some  few 

Wif.     No,  no,  he  is  resolv'd,  he  will  not 
Stir  a  foot,  I'll  lay  my  life. 

Bew.     I,  but  he's  discontented,  how  shall  we  resolve  that, 
And  make  him  stay  with  comfort  ? 

Wife.     Faith  Bewford  we  must  even  let  nature  work, 
For  he's  the  sweetest  temper'd  man  for  that 
As  one  can  wish,  for  let  men  but  go  about  to  fool  him, 
And  he'll  have  his  finger  as  deep  in't  as  the  best ; 
But  see  where  he  comes  frowning,  bless  us  all  ! 

Enter  Duke. 

Duke.     Off  with  your  hats,  for  here  doth  come 
The  high  and  mighty  Duke  of  Burgundy. 
What  ever  you  may  think,  I  have  thought 
And  thought,  and  thought  upon't,  and  I  find  it  plain, 
The  King  cannot  take  back  what  he  has  given, 
Unless  I  forfeit  it  by  course  of  Law. 
Not  all  the  water  in  the  River  Seine, 
Can  wash  the  blood  out  of  these  Princely  veins. 

Wife.     God-a-mercy  Husband,  thou  art  the  best 
To  work  out  a  thing  at  a  pinch  in  France. 

Duke.     I  will  ascend  my  State  again, 
Duchess,  take  your  place, 
And  let  our  Champion  enter. 

Long.     Has  he  his  Champion  ?    that's  excellent. 

233 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN   ACT  v 

Duke.     And  let  loud  Musick  sound  before  his  entrance. 
Sound  Trumpet. 

Enter  Jaques  in  Armor,  one  carrying  a  Scutcheon  before 
him,  and  a  two-handed  Sword. 

Wife.      How  well  our  Champion  doth  demean   himself, 
As  if  he  had  been  made  for  such  an  action  ? 
Methinks  his  sturdy  truncheon   he  doth  weild, 
Like  Mars  approaching  to  a  bloody  field. 

Duke.     I   think  there's  no  man  so  desperate 
To  dare  encounter  with  our  Champion, 
But  trust  me,   'Jaques,  thou  hast  pleas'd  us  well  ; 
Once  more  our  warlike  Musick,  then  proceed. 

Enter  Shattillion. 

Skat.     What  wondrous  age  is  this  !  what  close  proceedings  ! 
I  hear  the  clang  of  Trumpets  in  this  house, 
To  what  intent  do  not  our  States-men  search  ? 
Oh  no,  they  look  not  into  simple  truth  ; 
For  I  am  true,  and  they  regard  not  me, 
A  man  in  Armor  too  :    God  save  the  King, 
The  world  will  end,  there's  nought  but  treachery. 

Jaq.  I  yaques,  servant  to  the  high  and  mighty  Godfrey, 
Duke  of  Burgundy,  do  come  hither  to  prove  by  natural 
strength,  and  activity  of  my  body,  without  the  help  of  sor- 
cery, inchantment,  or  negromancy,  that  the  said  Godfrey, 
late  of  Mount  Marine,  and  now  of  Burgundy,  hath  perfect 
right  thereto,  notwithstanding  the  Kings  command  to  the 
contrary,  and  no  other  person  whatsoever  :  and  in  token 
that  I  will  be  ready  to  make  good  the  same  :  I  throw  down 
my  gage,  which  is  my  honor,  pronounced  the  37  of  Feb. 
Stilo  novo,  God  save  the  Duke. 

Shat.      Of  all  the  plots  the   King  hath  laid  for  me 
This  was  the  shrewdest,  'tis  my  life  they  seek 
And  they  shall  have  it  :    if  I  should  refuse 
To  accept  the  challenge  in  the  Kings  behalf, 
They  have  some  cause  to  take  away  my  life, 
And  if  I  do  accept  it,  who  can  tell, 
But  I  may  fall  by  doubtful  chance  of  War  ? 
'Twas  shrew'd,  but  I  must  take  the  least  of  evils, 

234 


Sc.  i     THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

I  take  thy  gauntlet  up,  thou  treacherous  man, 
That  stands  in  armed  Coat  against  the  King. 
Whom  God  preserve,  and  with  my  single  sword, 
Will  justifie  whatever  he  commands ; 
I'll  watch  him  for  catching  of  my  words. 

Duke.     Jaques  go  on,  defend  our  Princely  Title. 

Shat.     Why  shrink'st  thou  back?  thou  hast  an  evil  cause; 
Come  forward  man,  I  have  a  rock  about  me, 
I  fight  for  my  true  Liege. 

Duke.      Go  forward  Jaques. 

Jaq.     I  do  beseech  your  Grace  to  pardon  me, 
I  will  not  fight  with  him,  with  any  else 
I'll  shew  my  resolution  speedily. 

Shat.     Come,  do  thy  worst,  for  the  King  shall  see 
All  is  not  true,  that  is  reported  of  me. 

Jaq.     I  may  not  fight  with  him  by  Law  of  Arms. 

Duke.     What  ?   shall  my  Title  fall  ?  wilt  thou  not  fight  ? 

Jaq.     Never  with  him  that  once  hath  sav'd  my  life. 

Shat.     Dar'st  thou  not  fight?    behold  then,  I  do  go 
Strong  with  the  zeal  I  bear  my  Sovereign, 
And  seize  upon  that  haughty  man  himself. 
Descend  the  steps  (that  thou  hast  thus  usurp'd 
Against  the  King  and  State,)  down  to  the  ground, 
And  if  thou  do  utter  but  a  syllable 
To  cross  the  Kings  intent,  thou  art  but  dead  ; 
There,  lye  upon  the  earth,  and  pine,  and  dye. 
Did  ever  any  man  wade  through  such  storms 
To  save  his  life,  as  poor  Shattillion  ? 

Long.     I   fear  this  challenge  hath  spoil'd  all. 

Due.     Ne'er  fear  it,  he'll  work  it  out  again,  servant. 
See  where  Shattillions  Love,  poor  Lady,  comes. 

Enter  Love. 

Duke.     Jaques.  (he's  gone, 

Jaq.     Lie  still,  Sir,  if  you  love  your  life,  I'll  whistle  when 
Love.    Oh  Gentlemen,  I   charge  you  by  the  Love 

Which  you  bear  to  women,  take  some  pitty 

On  this  distressed  man,  help  to  restore 

That  precious  Jewel  to  him  he  hath  lost. 

Bew.     Lady,  what  ever  power  doth  lie  in  us 

235 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  v 

By  Art,  or  Prayer,  or  danger,  we  are  yours. 

Love.     A  strange  conceit  hath   wrought  this  malady, 
Conceits  again   must  bring  him  to  himself, 
My  strict  denial  to  his  Will  wrought  this  : 
And  if  you  could  but  draw  his  wilder  thoughts 
To  know  me,  he  would  sure  recover  sense. 

Long.     That  charge  I'll  undertake. 

Duke.     Look  yaquesy  look,  for  Gods  sake  let  me  rise, 
This  greatness  is  a  jade,  I  cannot  sit  it. 

yaq.     His  sword  is  up,  and  yet  he  watcheth  you. 

Du.     I'll  down  again,  pray  for  thy  Master,  Jaques.      (true, 

Shat.     Now  the  King  may  see  all  the  suggestions  are  not 
He  hath  receiv'd  against  my  loyalty  ; 
When  all  men  else  refuse,  I  fight  his  battels, 
And  thrust  my  body  into  dangers  mouth  ; 
I  am  become  his  Champion,  and  this  sword 
Has  taught  his  enemies  to  know  themselves  ; 
Oh  that  he  would  no  more  be  jealous  of  me  ! 

Long.     Monsieur  Shattillion^  the  King  ass[ign]s  you, 
That  for  this  valiant  loyal  acl:  of  yours, 
He  hath  forgot  all  jealousies  and  fears, 
And  never  more  will  tempt  you  into  danger. 

Shat.     But  how  shall  I  believe  this?  what  new  token 
Of  reconcilement  will  he  shew  me  ? 
Let  him  release  my  poor  Love  from  her  torment, 
From  her  hard  fare,  and  strict  imprisonment. 

Long.     He  hath  done  this  to  win  your  after-love, 
And  see  your  Lady  sent  you  from  the  King 
By  these  two  Gentlemen  :    be  thankful  for  her. 

Shat.     She  lives,  she  lives,  I  know  her  by  the  power 
Shoots  from  her  eyes. 

Love.     Rise  dear  Shattilllon. 

Shat.     I  know  my  duty, 
Next  unto  my  King,  I  am  to  kneel  to  you. 

Love.     I'll  have  you  rise,  fetch  me  a  chair,  sit  down  Shat. 

Shat.     I  am  commanded,  and  faith  tell  me  Mistriss, 
What  usage  have  you  had  ?    pray  be  plain  ! 

Love.     Oh  my  most  lov'd  Shattillion,  pain  enough, 
But  now  I  am  free,  thanks  to  my  God  and  King. 

Long.     His  eyes  grow  very  heavy,  not  a  word, 

236 


Sc.  i     THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

That  his  weak  senses  may  come  sweetly  home. 

Shat.     The  King  is  honourable. 

Duke.     When  do  you  whistle  yaques  ? 

Jaq.     By  and  by. 

Long.     Come  hither  Monsieur,  canst  thou  laugh  a  little  ? 

Serv.     Yes  Sir. 

Long.     So  thou  shalt  then.     Bewford,  how  dost  thou  ? 

Bew.     Why  well. 

Long.     I'm  glad  on't,  and  how  does  thy  wife  ? 

Bew .     Why,  you  may  see  her,  Sir,  she  stands  behind  you. 

Long.    By  the  mass  she's  there  indeed,  but  where's  her  belly  ? 

Bew.     Belly  ? 

Long.     Her  great  belly,  man  ;    what  hast  thou  sent  thee  ? 

Serv.     A  Boy,  I'll  lay  my  life,  it  tumbled  so. 

Bew.     Catcht  by  this  light. 

Long.     I'll  be  a  Gossip  Bewford. 

Serv.     And  I. 

Long.     I  have  an  odd  Apostle  spoon. 

Bew.     S'foot,  catcht. 

Due.     Why,  what's  the  matter,  Gentlemen  ? 

Long.     He's  married  to  your  woman. 

Due.     And  I  not  know  it  ? 

Serv.      'Twas  a  venial  sin. 

Bew.     Gall,  gall,  gall. 

Due.     Forgive  her,  Monsieur  Bewford,  'twas  her  love. 

Bew.     You  may  rise  if  you  please,  I  must  endure  it. 

Long.     See  how  my  great  Lord  lies  upon  the  ground 
And  dare  not  stir  yet  ! 
whistles  ? 

Duke.     Jaques,  yaques^  is  the  Kings  Champion  gon  yet  ? 

yaq.     No,  but  he's  asleep. 

Duke.     Is  he  asleep  art  sure  ? 

yaq.     I  am  sure  he  is,  I  hear  him  snore. 

Duke.     Then  by  your  favours  Gentlemen  I  rise, 
And  know  I  am  a  Duke  still. 

yaq.     And  I  am  his  Champion. 

Due.     Hold  thee  there,  and  all  France  cannot  mend  thee. 

Duke.     I  am  a  Prince  as  great  within  my  thoughts 
As  when  the  whole  state  did  adorn  my  person  ; 
What  trial  can  be  made  to  try  a  Prince  ? 
I  will  [ojppose  this  noble  corps  of  mine 

237 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN    ACT  v 

To  any  danger  that  may  end  the  doubt. 

Due.     Great  Duke,  and  Husband,  there  is  but   one   way 
To  satisfie  the  world  of  our  true  right, 
And  it  is  dangerous. 

Duke.     What  may  it  be  ? 

Were  it  to  bring  the  great  Turk  bound  in  chains 
Through  France  in  triumph  :    or  to  couple  up 
The  Sophie,  and  great  Prestor  John  together, 
I  would  attempt  it  Duchess,  tell  the  course. 

Due.     There  is  a  strong  opinion  through  the  world, 
And  no  doubt,  grounded  on  experience, 
That  Lions  will  not  touch  a  lawful  Prince, 
If  you  be  confident  then  of  your  right, 
Amongst  the  Lions  bear  your  naked  body, 
And  if  you  come  off  clear,  and  never  winch, 
The  world  will  say  you  are  a  perfect  Prince. 

Duke.     I  thank  you  Duchess,  for  your  kind  advice, 
But  now  we  do  not  affecl:  those  ravenous  beasts. 

Long.     A  Lion  is  a  beast  to  try  a  King ; 
But  for  the  trial  of  such  a  state  like  this 
Pliny  reports  a  mastive  dog  will  serve. 

Duke.     We  will  not  deal  with  dogs  at  all,  but  men. 

Serv.     You  shall  not  need  to  deal  with  them  at  all, 
Hark  you  Sir,  the  King  doth  know  you  are  a  Duke  : 

Duke.     No,  does  he  ? 

Serv.    Yes,  and  is  content  you  shall  be,  but  with  this  caution, 
That  none  know  it  but  your  self: 
For  if  ye  do,  he'll  take  it  away  by  A61  of  Parliament. 

Duke.     Here's  my  hand,  and  whilst  I  live  or  breath, 
No  living  wight  shall  know  I  am  a  Duke. 

Serv.     Mark  me  direftly,  Sir,  your  wife  may  know  it. 

Duke.     May  not   Jaques. 

Serv.     Yes,  he  may. 

Duke.     May  not  my  Countrey  Cosin  ? 

Serv.     By  no  means,  Sir,  if  you  love  your  life  and  state. 

Duke.     Well  then,  know  all,  I  am  no  Duke. 

Serv.      No,  I'll  swear  it. 

Long.     See,  he  wakes. 

Skat.     Where  am  I,  or  where  have  I  been  all  this  while? 
Sleep  hath  not  sate  so  sound  upon  mine  eyes 
But  I  remember  well  that  face  ; 

238 


Sc.  i     THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

Oh  thou  too  cruel,  leave  at  length  to  scorn 
Him  that  but  looking  on  thy  beauty,  dies, 
Either  receive  me,  or  put  out  my  eyes. 

Love.     Dearest  Shattillion,  see  upon  my  knees, 
I  offer  up  my  love,  forget  my  wrongs. 

Shat.     Art  thou  mine  own  ? 

Love.     By  heaven  I  am. 

Shat.     Then  all  the  world  is  mine. 

Love.     I  have  stranger  things  to  tell  thee,  my  dearest  love. 

Shat.     Tell  nothing,  but  that  thou  art  mine  own  : 
I  do  not  care  to  know  where  I  have  been, 
Or  how  I  have  liv'd,  or  any  thing, 
But  that  thou  art  my  own. 

Bew.     Well  wife,  though  'twere  a  trick  that  made  us  wed, 
We'll  make  our  selves  merry  soon  in  bed. 

Duke.     Know  all,  I  am  no  Duke. 

Wife.     What  [saye]  ? 

Duke,     yaques  ? 

yaq.     Sir. 

Duke.     I  am  a  Duke. 

Both.     Are  ye? 

Duke.     Yes  faith,  yes  faith. 
But  it  must  only  run  among  our  selves, 
And  Jaques,  thou  shalt  be  my  Secretary  still. 

Wife.     Kind  Gentlemen,  lead  in  Shattillion, 
For  he  must  needs  be  weak  and  sickly  yet. 
Now  all  my  labours  have  a  perfedl  end,  as  I  could  wish, 
Let  all  young  sprightly  wives  that  have 
Dull  foolish  coxcombs  to  their  Husbands, 
Learn  by  me  their  duties,  what  to  do, 
Which  is,  to  make  'em  fools,  and  please  'em  too.     [Exeunt. 


EPILOGUE. 

'  I  ^  He  Monuments  of  virtue,  and  desert. 

Appear  more  goodly,  when  the  gloss  of  Art 
Is  eaten  off  by  time,  than  when  at  first 
They  were  set  up,  not  censured  at  the  worst. 
We^ave  done  our  best,  for  your  contents  to  fit, 
With  new  pains,  this  old  monument  of  wit. 

239 


THE 


CORONATION. 
A   Comedy. 


The  Persons  represented  in  the   Play. 


Philochs. 

Lisander. 

Cassander. 

Lisimachus. 

Antigonu. 

Arcadius. 

Macariw. 

Seleucus. 

Queen. 

Charilla. 


Poli  dor  a. 

Nestorius. 

Eubulus. 

A  Bishop. 

Pottanus. 

Sophia. 

Demetrius. 

Gentlemen  and  Gentlewomen. 

Servants  and  Attendants. 


PROLOGUE. 

Since  'tis  become  the   Title  of  our  Play, 
A  woman  once  in  a   \_Coronation  may\ 
With  pardon,  speak  the  Prologue,  give  as  free 
A  welcome  to  the   Theatre,  as  he 
That  with  a  little  Beard,  a  long  black  Cloak, 
With  a  starched  face,  and  supple  leg  hath  spoke 
Before  the  Plays  the  twelvemonth,  let  me  then 
Present  a  welcome  to  these  Gentlemen, 
If  you  be  kind,  and  noble,  you  will  not 
Think  the  worse  of  me  for  my  Petticote : 
But  to  the  Play,  the  Poet  bad  me  tell 
His  fears  first  in  the   Title,  lest  i\i\  swell 
Some  thoughts  with  expectation  of  a  strain, 
That  but  once  could  be  seen  in  a   Kings  Reign, 
This  Coronation,  he  hopes  you  may 
See  often,  while  the  genius  of  his 

240 


ACT  i  THE  CORONATION 

Doth  prophesie,  the  Conduits  may  run   Wine, 

When   the  days  triumph's  ended,  and  divine 

Brisk  Neflar  swell  his   Temple\_s~\  to  a  rage, 

With  something  of  more  price  t'  invest  the  Stage. 

There  rests  but  to  prepare  you,  that  although 

It  be  a   Coronation,  there  doth  flow 

No  undermirth,  such  as  doth  lard  the  Scene 

For  course  delight  the  language  here  is  clean. 

And  confident^  our  Poet  bade  me  say, 

He'll  bate  you  but  the  folly  of  a  Play. 

For  which)  although  dull  souls  his  Pen  despise, 

Who  thinks  it  yet  too  early  to  be  wise. 

The  nobler  will  thank  his  Muse,  at  least 

Excuse  him,  cause  his  thought  aimd  at  the  best, 

But  we  conclude  not,  it  does  rest  in  you. 

To  censure  Poet,  Play,  and  Prologue  too. 

But  'what  have  I  omitted  ?    is  there  not 

A  blush  upon  my  cheeks  that  I  forgot 

The  Ladies,  and  a  Femal  Prologue  too  ? 

Tour  pardon  noble  Gentlewomen,  you 

Were  first  within   my  thoughts,  I  know  you  sit 

As  free,  and  high  Commissioners  of  wit, 

Have  clear,  and  aftive  souls,  nay,  though  the  men 

Were  lost  in  your  eyes,  they  II  be  found  agen, 

You  are  the  bright  intelligences  move, 

And  make  a  harmony  this  sphere  of  Love, 

Be  you  propitious  then,  our  Poet  says, 

Our  wreath  from  you,  is  worth  their  grove  of  Bayes 


Attus    Primus.      Sccena    Prima. 

Enter  Philocles  and  Lisander. 

Phi.    TV   /T  Ake  way  for  my  Lord  Proteclor. 
jLVJL      Lisan.     Your  graces  servants. 

Enter  Cassander,  and  Lisimachus. 

Cas.     I  like  your  diligent  waiting,  where's  Lisimachus  ? 
Lisi.     I  wait  upon  you,  Sir. 
Cas.     The  Queen  looks  pleasant 

B.-F.  vin.  Q  241 


THE  CORONATION  ACT  i 

This  morning,  does  she   not  ? 

Lis.     I   ever   found 
Her  gracious  smiles  on   me. 

Cat.     She  does  consult 
Her  safety   in't,  for  I   must  tell  thee  boy, 
But  in   the  assurance  of  her  love  to  thee, 
I  should  advance  thy  hopes  another  way, 
And  use  the  power  I   have  in  Epire,  to 
Settle  our  own,  and  uncontrouled  greatness  ; 
But  since  she  carries  her  self  so  fairly, 
I  am  content  to  expert,  and  by   her  marriage 
Secure  thy   fortune,  that's  all  my  ambition 
Now,  be  still  careful   in   thy  applications 
To  her,  I  must  attend  other  affairs, 
Return,  and  use  what  Art  thou  canst  to  lay 
More  charms  of  love  upon  her. 

Lis.     I  presume 

She  always  speaks  the  language  of  her  heart, 
And  I  can  be  ambitious  for  no  more 
Happiness  on  earth,  than  she  encourages 
Me  to  expect. 

Cas.     It  was  an  a6l  becoming 
The  wisdom  of  her  Father  to  engage 
A  tye  between  our  Families,  and  she 
Hath  play'd  her  best  discretion  to  allow  it ; 
But  we  lose  time  in  conference,  wait  on  her, 
And  be  what  thou  wert  born  for,  King  of  Epirey 
I  must  away.  [Exit. 

Lis.     Success  ever  attend  you. 
Is  not  the  Queen  yet  coming  forth  ? 

Lisa.     Your  servant, 
You  may  command  our  duties, 
This  is  the  Court  Star,  Phi  lodes. 

Phi.     The  Star  that  we  must  sail  by. 
Lisa.     All  must  borrow 

A  light  from  him,  the  young  Queen  directs  all 
Her  favours  that  way. 

Phi.     He's  a  noble  Gentleman, 
And  worthy  of  his  expectations  : 
Too  good  to  be  the  son  of  such  a  Father. 

242 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Lisa.     Peace,  remember  he  is  Lord  Prote6tor. 

Phil.     We  have  more  need  of  Heavens  Protection 
I'  th'  mean  time,  I  wonder  the  old  King 
Did  in  his  life,  design  him  for  the  office. 

Lisa.     He  might  expecl:  his  faith,  I  have  heard  when 
The  King,  who  was  no  Epirote^  advanced 
His  claim,  Cassander^  our   Proteftor  now, 
Young  then,  oppos'd  him  toughly  with  his  faction, 
But  forc'd  to  yield,  had  fair  conditions, 
And  was  declared  by  the  whole  State,  next  heirj 
If  the  King  wanted  issue,  our  hopes  only 
Thriv'd  in  this  daughter. 

Phi.     Whom  but  for  her  smiles 
And  hope  of  marriage  with  Lisimachus, 
His  Father,  by  some  cunning,  had  remov'd 
E'r  this. 

Lisa.     Take  heed,  the  Arras  may  have  ears 
I  should  not  weep  much  if  his  grace  would  hence 
Remove  to  Heaven. 

Phi.     I  prethee  what  should  he  do  there  ? 

Lisa.     Some  Offices  will  fall. 

Phi.     And  the  Skie  too,  e'r  I  get  one  stair  higher 
While  he's  in  place. 

Enter  Antigonus. 

Ant.      Lisander,  Philocles^ 
How  looks  the  day  upon  us  ?   where's  the  Queen  ? 

Phi.     In  her  bed-chamber. 

Ant.     Who  was  with  her  ? 

Lisa.     None  but  the  young  Lord  Lisimachus. 

Ant.     'Tis  no  treason 
If  a  man  wish  himself  a  Courtier 
Of  such  a  possibility  :    he  has 
The  mounting  fate. 

Phi.     I  would  his  Father  were 
Mounted  to  th*  gallows. 

Ant.     He  has  a  path  fair  enough, 
If  he  survive  by  title  of  his  Father. 

Lisa.     The  Queen  will  hasten  his  ascent. 

Phi.     Would  I  were  Queen. 

Q2  243 


THE  CORONATION  ACT  i 

Ant.     Thou  wou'dst  become  rarely  the  petticoat, 
What  wou'dst   thou  do  ? 

Phi.     Why,  I   wou'd   marry 

My  Gentleman  usher,  and   trust  all  the  strength 
And  burden  of  my  State  upon  his  legs, 
Rather  than   be  call'd  wife  by  any  son 
Of  such  a  Father. 

Lisa.      Come,  let's  leave  this  subjecl, 
We  may  find  more  secure  discourse  ;    when  saw 
You  young  Arcadius,   Lord  Macarius's  Nephew  ? 

Ant.     There's  a  spark,  a  youth  moulded  for  a  Favourite, 
The  Queen  might  do  him  honor. 

Phi.     Favourite,  'tis  too  cheap  a  name,  there  were  a  match 
Now  for  her  Virgin  blood. 

Lisa.     Must  every  man 

That  has  a  handsome  face  or  leg,  feed  such 
Ambition  :    I  confess  I  honor  him, 
He  has  a  nimble  soul,  and  gives  great  hope 
To  be  no  woman-hater,  dances  handsomly, 
Can  court  a  Lady  powerfully,  but  more  goes 
To  th'  making  of  a  Prince.     He's  here 
And's  Uncle.  " 

Enter  Arcadius,  Macarius,  Seleucus. 

Sel.     Save  you  Gentlemen,  who  can  direcl:  me 
To  find  my  Lord  Proteclor  ? 

Lisa.     He  was  here 

Within  this  half  hour,  young  Lisimachus 
His  Son  is  with  the  Queen. 

Sel.     There  let  him  compliment, 
I  have  other  business,  ha,  Arcadius  \  [Exit. 

Phi.     Observ'd  you,  with  what  eyes  Arcadius 
And  he  saluted,  their  two  families 
Will  hardly  reconcile. 

Ant.     Seleucus  carries 

Himself  too  roughly  ;    with  what  pride  and  scorn 
He  past  by  'em. 

Lisa.     Th'other  with  less  shew 
Of  anger,  carries  pride  enough  in's  soul, 
I  wish  'em  all  at  peace,  Macarius  looks 

244 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Are  without  civil  war,  a  good  old  man, 
The  old  King  lov'd  him  well,  Seleucus  Father 
Was  as  dear  to  him,  and  maintain'd  the  character 
Of  an  honest  Lord  through  Epire  :    that  two  men 
So  lov'd  of  others,  should  be  so  unwelcome 
To  one  another. 

Arc.     The  Queen  was  not  wont  to  send  for  me. 

Mac.     The  reason's  to  her  self, 
It  will  become  your  duty  to  attend  her. 

Arc.     Save  you  Gentlemen,  what  novelty 
Does  the  Court  breathe  to  day  ? 

Lisa.     None  Sir,  the  news 
That  took  the  last  impression  is,  that  you 
Purpose  to  leave  the  Kingdom,  and  those  men, 
That  honor  you,  take  no  delight  to  hear  it. 

Arc.     I  have  ambition  to  see  the  difference 
Of  Courts,  and  this  may  spare  ;    the  delights 
At  home  do  surfet,  and  the  Mistriss,  whom 
We  all  do  serve,  is  fixt  upon  one  objecl, 
Her  beams  are  too  much  pointed,  but  no  Countrey 
Shall  make  me  lose  your  memories. 

Enter  Queen,  Lisimachus,  Macarius,  Charilla. 

Qu.     Area  dins. 

Mac.     Your  Lordship  honor'd  me, 
I  have  no  blessing  in  his  absence. 

Lis.     'Tis  done  like  a  pious  Uncle. 

Qu.     We  must  not 
Give  any  licence. 

Arc.     If  your  Majesty 
Would  please. 

Qu.     We  are  not  pleas'd,  it  had  become  your  duty, 
To  have  first  acquainted  us,  e'r  you  declar'd 
Your  resolution  publick,  is  our  Court 
Not  worth  your  stay  ? 

Arc.     I  humbly  beg  your  pardon. 

Qu.     Where's  Lysimachus  ? 

Lis.     Your  humble  servant,  Madam. 

Qu.     We  shall  find 
Employment  at  home  for  you,  do  not  lose  us. 

245 


THE  CORONATION  ACT  i 

Arc.     Madam,  I  then  write   my  self  blest  on  earth 
When  I  may  do  you  service. 

Qu.     We  would   be  private,  Macarius. 

Mac.     Madam,  you   have   blest  me, 
Nothing  but  your  command  could   interpose  to 
Stay   him. 

Qu.      LisimachuS) 
You  must  not  leave  us. 

Lisa.     Nothing  but  Lisimachus  ?    has  she  not 
Ta'en  a  philter  ? 

Qu.     Nay,  pray  be  cover'd,  Ceremony  from  you, 
Must  be  excus'd. 

List.     It  will   become  my  duty. 

Qu.     Not  your  love  ? 

I  know  you  would  not  have  me  look  upon 
Your  person  as  a  Courtier,  not  as  Favorite  ; 
That  Title  were  too  narrow  to  express 
How  we  esteem  you. 

Lis.     The  least  of  all 
These  names  from  you,  Madam,  is  grace  enough. 

Qu.     Yet  here  you  wou'd  not  rest  ? 

Lis.     Not  if  you  please  : 
To  say  there  is  a  happiness  beyond, 
And  teach  my  ambition  how  to  make  it  mine, 
Although  the  honors  you  already  have 
Let  fall  upon  your  servant,  exceed  all 
My  merit ;    I  have  a  heart  is  studious 
To  reach  it  with  desert,  and  make  i[f]  possible 
Your  favor's  mine  by  justice,  with  your  pardon. 

Qu.      We  are  confident  this  needs  no  pardon,  Sir, 
But  a  reward  to  cherish  your  opinion, 
And  that  you  may  keep  warm  your  passion, 
Know  we  resolve  for  marriage,  and  if 
I  had  another  gift,  beside  my  self, 
Greater,  in  that  you  should  discern,  how  much 
My  heart  is  fixt. 

Lis.     Let  me  digest  my  blessing. 

Qu.     But  I  cannot  resolve  when  this  shall  be. 

Lis.     How  Madam  ?    do  not  make  me  dream  of  Heaven, 
And  wake  me  into  misery,  if  your  purpose 

246 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Be,  to  immortalize  your  humble  servant, 
Your  power  on  earth's  divine,  Princes  are  here 
The  copies  of  Eternity,  and  create, 
When  they  but  will  our  happiness. 

Qu.     I  shall 

Believe  you  mock  me  in  this  argument, 
I  have  no  power. 

Lis.     How,  no  power  ? 

Qu.     Not  as  a  Queen. 

Lis.     I  understand  you  not. 

Qu.     I  must  obey,  your  Father's  my  Proteftor. 

Lis.     How  ? 

Qu.     When  I  am  absolute,  Lisimacbus, 
Our  power  and  Titles  meet,  before,  we  are  but 
A  shadow,  and  to  give  you  that  were  nothing. 

Lis.     Excellent  Queen, 
My  love  took  no  original  from  State, 
Or  the  desire  of  other  greatness, 
Above  what  my  birth  may  challenge  modestly, 
I  love  your  virtues  ;    mercenary  souls 
Are  taken  with  advancement,  you've  an  Empire 
Within  you,  better  than  the  worlds,  to  that 
Looks  my  ambition. 

Qu.     T'other  is  not,  Sir, 
To  be  despis'd,  Cosmography  allows 
Epire^  a  place  i'  th'  Map,  and  know  till  I 
Possess  what  I  was  born  to,  and  alone 
Do  grasp  the  Kingdoms  Scepter,  I  account 
My  self  divided,  he  that  marries  me 
Shall  take  an  [ajbsolute  Queen  to  his  warm  bosom, 
My  temples  yet  are  naked,  until  then 
Our  Loves  can  be  but  compliments,  and  wishes, 
Yet  very  hearty  ones. 

Lis.     I  apprehend. 

Qu.     Your  Father. 

Enter  Cassander  and  Seleucus. 

Cas.     Madam,  a  Gentleman  has  an  humble  suit. 
Qu.     'Tis  in  your  power  to  grant,  you  are  Protector, 
I  am  not  yet  a  Queen. 

247 


THE  CORONATION  ACT  i 

Cas.     How's  this  ? 

Lis.     I  shall  expound  her  meaning. 

Qu.     Why   kneel   you,  Sir  ? 

Sel.     Madam,   to   reconcile  two  families 
That  may   unite,   both   Counsels  and   cheir   blood 
To  serve  your  Crown. 

Qu.     AfacariuS)  and  Eubulus 
That  beare  inveterate  malice  to  each  other. 
It  grew,  as  I   have   heard,  upon  the  question 
Which  some  of  either  family   had  made 
Which   of  their  Fathers  was  the  best   Commander  : 
If  we  believe  our  stories,  they  have  both 
Deserved  well  of  our  state,  and  yet  this  quarrel 
Has  cost  too  many   lives,  a  severe  faction. 

Sel.     But  I'll  propound  a  way  to  plant  a  quiet 
And  peace  in   both  our  houses,  which  are  torn 
With  their  dissentions,  and  lose  the  glory 
Of  their  great  names,  my  blood  speaks  my  relation 
To  EubuluS)  and   I   wish   my  veins  were  emptied 
To  appease  their  war. 

Qu.     Thou  hast  a  noble  soul, 
This  is  a  charity  above  thy  youth, 
And   it  flows  bravely   from  thee,   name  the  way. 

Sel.  In  such  a  desperate  cause,  a  little  stream 
Of  blood  might  purge  the  foulness  of  their  hearts 
If  you'll  prevent  a  deluge. 

Qu.     Be  particular. 

Sel.      Let  but  your  Majesty  consent  that  two 
May  with  their  personal  valour,  undertake 
The  honor  of  their  family,  and  determine 
Their  difference. 

Qu.     This  rather  will   inlarge 
Their  hate,  and  be  a  means  to  call  more  blood 
Into  the  stream. 

Sel.     Not  if  both  families 
Agree,  and  swear — 

Qu.     And  who  shall  be  the  Champions  ? 

Sel.     I  beg  the  honor,  for  Eubulus  cause 
To  be   ingag'd,   if  any  for  Macarlus^ 
Worthy  to  wager  heart  with  mine,  accept  it, 

248 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

I  am  confident,  Arcadius, 
For  honor  would  direct  me  to  his  sword, 
Will  not  deny,  to  stake  against  my  life 
His  own,  if  you  vouchsafe  us  priviledge. 

Qu.     You  are  the  expectation,  and  top  boughs 
Of  both  your  houses,  it  would  seem  injustice, 
To  allow  a  civil  war  to  cut  you  off, 
And  your  selves  the  instruments,  besides 
You  appear  a  soldier  ;    Arcadius 
Hath  no  acquaintance  yet  with  rugged  war, 
More  fit  to  drill  a  Lady,  than  expose 
His  body  to  such  dangers  :    a  small  wound 
I'th'  head,  may  spoil  the  method  of  his  hair, 
Whose  curiosity  exacts  more  time, 
Than  his  devotion,  and  who  knows  but  he 
May  lose  his  ribond   by  it  in  his  lock, 
Dear  as  his  Saint,  with  whom  he  would  exchange 
His  head,  for  her  gay  colours  ;    then  his  band 
May  [b]e  disorder'd,  and  transform'd  from  Lace 
To  Cutwork,  his  rich  cloaths  be  discomplexioned 
With  bloud,  beside  the  infashionable  slashes  : 
And  at  the  next  Festival  take  Physick, 
Or  put  on  black,  and  mourn  for  his  slain  breeches  : 
His  hands  cas'd  up  in  gloves  all  night,  and  sweet 
Pomatum  :   the  next  day  may  be  endanger'd 
To  blisters  with  a  sword,  how  can  he  stand 
Upon  his  guard,  who  hath  Fidlers  in  his  head, 
To  which,  his  feet  must  ever  be  a  dancing  ? 
Beside  a  falsify  may  spoil  his  cringe, 
Or  making  of  a  leg,  in  which  consists 
Much  of  his  Court-perfeclion. 

Sel.     Is  this  Character 
Bestow'd  on  him  ? 

Qu.     It  something  may  concern  the  Gentleman, 
Whom  if  you  please  to  challenge 
To  Dance,  play  on  the  Lute,  or  Sing. 

Sel.      Some  [catch]  ? 

Qu.     He  shall  not  want  those  will  maintain  him 
For  any  sum. 

Sel.     You  are  my  Sovereign, 

249 


THE  CORONATION  ACT  i 

I  dare  not  think,  yet   I   must  speak  somewhat, 
I   shall   burst  else,  I   have  no  skill   in  Jiggs, 
Nor  Tumbling. 

o 

Ou.     How  Sir  ? 

Sel.     Nor  was  I  born  a  Minstrel,  and  in  this  you  have 
So  infinitely  disgrac'd  Arcadius. 
But  that  I  have   heard  another  Qharacler, 
And  with  your  royal  Licence  do  believe  it, 
I  should  not  think  him  worth  my  killing. 

Ou.     Your  killing  ? 

Sel.     Does  she  not  jeer  me  ; 
I  shall  talk  treason  presently,   I   find  it 
At  my  tongues  end  already,  this  is  an 
Affront,  I'll  leave  her. 

Qu.     Come  back,  do  you  know  Arcadius  ? 

Sel.     I  ha'  chang'd  but  little  breath  with  him  ;   our  persons 
Admit  no  familiarity  ;    we  were 
Born  to  live  both  at  distance,  yet  I  ha'  seen  him 
Fight,  and  fight   bravely. 

Qu.     When  the  spirit  of  Wine 
Made  his  brain  valiant,  he  fought  bravely. 

Sel.     Although  he  be  my  enemy,  should  any 
Of  the  gay  flies  that  buzze  about  the  Court, 
Sit  to  catch  trouts  i'th'  summer,  tell  me  so, 
I  durst  in  any  presence  but  your  own. 

Qu.     What  ? 

Sel.     Tell  him  he  were  not  honest. 

Qu.     I  see  Sele\u\cuS)  thou  art  resolute, 
And  I  but  wrong'd  Arcadius,  your  first 
Request  is  granted,  you  shall  fight,  and  he 
That  conquers  be  rewarded,  to  confirm 
First  place  and  honor  to  his  Family  : 
Is  it  not  this  you  plead  for  ? 

Sel.     You  are  gracious. 

Qu.      Lisimachus. 

Lis.     Madam. 

Cas.     She  has  granted  then  ? 

Sel.      With   much  ado. 

Cas.     I  wish  thy  sword  may  open 
His  wanton  veins,  Macarlm  is  too  popular, 

250 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

And  has  taught  him  to  insinuate. 

Qu.     It  shall 

But  haste  the  confirmation  of  our  loves, 
And  ripen  the  delights  of  marriage,  Seleucus.      [Exit  cum  Sel, 

Lis.     As  I  guest, 
It  cannot  be  too  soon. 

Cas.     To  morrow  then  we  crown  her,  and  invest 
My  Son  with  Majesty,  'tis  to  my  wishes, 
Beget  a  race  of  Princes,  my  Lisimachus, 

Lis.     First,   let  us  marry,  Sir. 

Cas.     Thy  brow  was  made 
To  wear  a  golden  circle,  I'm  transported, 
Thou  shalt  rule  her,  and  I  will  govern  thee. 

Lis.     Although  you  be  my  Father,  that  will  not 
Concern  my  obedience,  as  I  take  it. 

Enter  Philocles,  Lisander,  and  Antigonus. 

Gentlemen, 

Prepare  your  selves   for  a  solemnity 

Will  turn  the  Kingdom  into  triumph,  Epire 

Look  fresh   to  morrow,   'twill   become  your  duties 

In  all  your  glory,  to  attend  the  Queen 

At  her  Coronation,  she  is  pleased  to  make 

The  next  day  happy  in  our  Calendar, 

My  office  doth  expire,  and  my  old   blood 

Renews  with  thought  on't. 

Phi.     How's  this? 

Ant.     Crown'd   to  morrow. 

Lisa.     And  he  so  joyful  to  resign  his  Regency, 
There's  some  trick  in't,  I  do  not  like  these  hasty 
Proceedings,  and  whirls  of  state,  they  have  commonlfy] 
As  strange  and  violent  effects  ;  well,  heaven  save  the  Queen. 

Phi.     Heaven  save  the  Queen,  say  I,  and  send  her  a  sprightly 
Bed-fellow,  for  the  Protedlor,   let  him  pray  for 
Himself,  he  is  like  to  have  no  benefit  of  my  devotion. 

Cas.      But  this  doth  quicken   my  old  heart,  Lisimachus^ 
There  is  not  any  step  into  her  throne, 
But  is  the  same  degree  of  thy  own  state  ; 
Come  Gentlemen. 

Lisa.     We  attend  your  grace. 

251 


THE  CORONATION          ACT  n 

Cos.      Lisimachus. 

List.     What  heretofore  could  happen  to  mankind 
Was  with   much   pain  to  climb  to  heaven,  but   in 
Sophias  marriage  of  all   Queens  the  best, 
Heaven  will  come  down  to  earth,  to  make  me  blest.    [Exe. 

A 51  us   Secundus.     Sccena   Prlma. 

Enter  Arcadius  and  Polydora. 

Pol.    T  Ndeed  you  shall  not  go. 
1       Arc.  '  Whither  ? 

Pol.     To  travel, 

I  know  you  see  me,  but  to  take  your  leave, 
But  I  must  never  yield  to  such  an  absence. 

Arc.     I  prethee  leave  thy  fears,  I  am  commanded 
To  th'  contrary,  I  wonot  leave  thee  now. 

Pol.     Commanded  ?    by  whom  ? 

Arc.     The  Queen. 

Pol.     I  am  very  glad,  for  trust  me,  I  could  think 
Of  thy  departure  with  no  comfort,  thou 
Art  all  the  joy  I  have,  half  of  my  soul, 
But  I  must  thank  the  Queen  now  for 'thy  company, 
I  prethee,  what  could  make  thee  so  desirous 
To  be  abroad  ? 

Arc.     Only  to  get  an  appetite 
To  thee  Polidora. 

Pol.     Then  you  must  provoke  it. 

Arc.     Nay,  prethee  do  not  so  mistake  thy  servant. 

Pol.     Perhaps  you  surfeit  with  my  Love. 

Arc.     Thy  love  ? 

Pol.     Although  I  have  no  beauty  to  compare 
With  the  best  faces,  I  have  a  heart  above 
All  competition. 

Arc.     Thou  art  jealous  now, 
Come  let  me  take  the  kiss  I  gave  thee  last, 
I  am  so  confident  of  thee,  no  Lip 
Has  ravisht  it  from  thine  ;    I  prethee  come 
To  Court. 

Pol.     For  what  ? 

252 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Arc.     There  is  the  throne  for  beauty. 

Pol.     'Tis  safer  dwelling  here. 

Arc.     There's  none  will  hurt, 
Or  dare  but  think  an  ill  to  Polydora, 
The  greatest  will  be  proud  to  honor  thee. 
Thy  luster  wants  the  admiration  here  : 
There  thou  wot  shine  indeed,  and  strike  a  reverence 
Into  the  gazer. 

Pol.     You  can  flatter  too. 

Arc.     No  praise  of  thee  can  be  thought  so,  thy  virtue 
Will  deserve  all,  I  must  confess,  we  Courtiers 
Do  oftentimes  commend  to  shew  our  Art, 
There  is  necessity  sometimes  to  say, 
This  Madam  breaths  Arabian  Gumms, 
Amber  and  Cassia  ;    though  while  we  are  praising, 
We  wish  we  had  no  nostrils  to  take  in 
Th'  offensive  steam  of  her  corrupted  Lungs. 
Nay,  some  will  swear  they  love  their  Mistriss, 
Would  hazard  lives  and  fortunes,  to  preserve 
One  of  her  hairs  brighter  than  Berenices ; 
Or  young  Apollo  s,  and  yet  after  this, 
A  favour  from  another  toy  would  tempt  him 
To  laugh,  while  the  officious  hangman  whips 
Her  head  off. 

Pol.     Fine  men. 

Arc.     I  am  none  of  these, 
Nay,  there  are  women  Polldora^  too 
That  can   do  pretty  well  at  flatteries  ; 
Make  men  believe  they  dote,  will  languish  for  'em, 
Can  kiss  a  Jewel  out  of  one,  and  dally 
A  carcanet  of  Diamonds  from  another, 
Weep  into  th'  bosome,  of  a  third,  and  make 
Him  drop  as  many  Pearls  \    they  count  it  nothing 
To  talk  a  reasonable  heir  within  ten  days 
Out  of  his  whole  Estate,  and  make  him  mad 
He  has  no  more  wealth  to  consume. 

Pol.     You'll  teach  me 

To  think  I  may  be  flattered  in  your  promises, 
Since  you  live  where  this  Art  is  most  profest. 

Arc.     I  dare  not  be  so  wicked  Polidora^ 

253 


THE  CORONATION          ACT  n 

The  Infant  errors  of  the  Court  I   may 

Be  guilty  of,   but  never  to  abuse 

So  rare  a  goodness,  nor  indeed  did  ever 

Converse  with  any  of  those  shames  of  Court, 

To  practise  for  base  ends  ;    be  confident 

My  heart  is  full  of  thine,  and  I  so  deeply 

Carry  the  figure  of  my  Polydora, 

It  is  not  in  the  power  of  time  or  distance 

To  cancel   it,  by  all  that's  blest  I  love  thee  : 

Love  thee  above  all  women,  dare  invoke 

A  curse  when  I   forsake  thee. 

Pol.     Let  it  be  some 
Gentle  one. 

Arc.     Teach  me  an  oath  I  prethee, 
One  strong  enough  to  bind,  if  thou  dost  find 
Any  suspition  of  my  faith,  or  else 
Dire6l  me  in  some  horrid  imprecation  : 
When  I  forsake  thee  for  the  love  of  other 
Women,  may  heaven  reward  my  apostacy 
To  blast  my  greatest  happiness  on  earth, 
And  make  all  joys  abortive. 

Pol.     Revoke  these  hasty  syllables,  they  carry 
Too  great  a  penalty  for  breach  of  Love 
To  me,  I  am  not  worth  thy  suffering, 
You  do  not  know,  what  beauty  may  invite 
Your  change,  what  happiness  may  tempt  your  eye 
And  heart  together. 

Arc.     Should  all  the  graces  of  your  sex  conspire 
In  one,  and  she  should  court  [me],  with  a  Dowry, 
Able  to  buy  a  Kingdom,  when  I  give 
My  heart  from  Polidora. 

Pol.     I  suspe6l  not, 
And  to  requite  thy  constancy,  I  swear. 

Arc.     'Twere  sin  to  let  thee  waste  thy  breath 
I  have  assurance  of  thy  noble  thoughts. 

Enter  a  Servant. 

Serv.     My  Lord,  your  Uncle  hath  been  every  where 
I*  th'  Court  inquiring  for  you,  his  looks  speak 
Some  earnest  cause. 

254 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Arc.     I  am  more  acquainted  with 
Thy  virtue,  than  to  imagine  thou  wilt  not 
Excuse  me  now,  one  kiss  dismisses  him 
Whose  heart  shall  wait  on  Polidora,  prethee 
Let  me  not  wish  for  thy  return  too  often, 
My  Father. 

Enter  Nestorius,  and  a  servant. 

Nes.     I  met  Arcadius  in  strange  haste,  he  told  me 
He  had  been  with  thee. 

Pol.     Some  affair  too  soon 
Ravish'd  him  hence,  his  Uncle  sent  for  him 
You  came  now  from  Court  :    how  looks  the  Queen 
This  golden  morning  ? 

Nes.     Like  a  Bride,  her  soul 
Is  all  on  mirth,  her  eyes  have  quick'ning  fires, 
Able  to  strike  a  spring  into  the  earth, 
In  winter. 

Pol.     Then  Ltsimachus  can  have 
No  frost  in's  blood,  that  lives  so  near  her  beams. 

Nes.     His  politick  Father  the  Protector  smiles  too, 
Resolve  to  see  the  ceremony  of  the  Queen 
'Twill  be  a  day  of  state. 

Pol.     I  am  not  well. 

Nes.     How  !    not  well  ?    retire  then,  I  must  return 
My  attendance  is  expected,  Polidora, 
Be  careful  of  thy  health. 

Pol.     It  will  concern  me.  [Exit. 

Enter  Arcadius,  and  Macarius. 

Arc.     You  amaze  rr*e,  Sir. 

Mac.     Dear  Nephew,  if  thou  respect  thy  safety 
My  honor,  or  my  age,  remove  thy  self, 
Thy  life's  in   danger. 

Arc.     Mine  ?    who's  my  enemy  ? 

Mac.     Take  horse,  and  instantly  forsake  the  City, 
Or  else  within  some  unsuspected  dwelling, 
Obscure  thy  self,  stay  not  to  know  the  reason. 

Arc.     Sir,  I  beseech  your  pardon,  which  i'  th'  number 
Of  my  offences  unto  any,  should 

255 


THE  CORONATION          ACT  n 

Provoke  this  dishonourable  flight  ? 

Mac.  I  would,  when  I  petition'd  for  thy  stay, 
I  had  pleaded  for  thy  banishment,  thou  knowst  not 
What  threatens  thee. 

Arc.     I  would  desire  to  know   it, 
I  am  in   no  conspiracy  of  treason, 
Have  ravish'd  no  mans  Mistriss,  not  so  much 
As  given  the  lye  to  any,  what  should  mean 
Your  strange  and  violent  fears,  I  will   [n]ot  stir 
Until  you  make  me  sensible  I  have  lost 
My  innocence. 

Mac.     I  must  not  live  to  see 
Thy  body  full  of  wounds,  it  were  less  sin 
To  rip  thy  Fathers  Marble,  and  fetch  from 
The  reverend  vault,  his  ashes,  and  disperse  them 
By  some  rude  winds,  where  none  should  ever  find 
The  sacred  dust :    it  was  his  Legacy, 
The  breath  he  mingled  with  his  prayers  to  Heaven 
I  [sh]ould  preserve  Arcadim,  whose  fate 
He  prophesied  in  death,  would  need  protection, 
Thou  wot  disturb  his  ghost,  and  call  it  to 
Affright  my  dreams,  if  thou  refuse  to  obey  me. 

Arc.     You  more  inflame  me,  to  enquire  the  cause 
Of  your  distraction,  and  you'll  arm  me  better 
Than  any  coward  flight  by  acquainting  me 
Whose  malice  aims  to  kill  me,  good  Sir  tell  me. 

Mac.     Then  prayers  and  tears  assist  me. 

Arc.     Sir. 

Mac.     Arcadius, 

Thou  art  a  rash  young  man,  witness  the  spirit 
Of  him  that  trusted  me  so  much,  I  bleed, 
Till  I  prevent  this  mischief.  [Exit. 

Enter  Philocles,  Lisander. 

Arc.     Ha,  keep  off. 
Phi.     What  mean  you,  Sir  ? 
Lis.      We  are  your  friends. 
Arc.     I  know  your  faces,  but 
Am  not  secure,  I  would  not  be  betraid. 

Lis.     You  wrong  our  hearts,  who  truly  honor  you. 

256 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Arc.     They  say  I  must  be  kill'd. 

Phi.     By  whom  ? 

Arc.     I  know  not,  nor  wou'd  I  part  with  life  so  tamely. 

Phi.     We  dare  engage  ours  in  your  quarrel,  hide 
Your  sword,  it  may  beget  suspition, 
It's  enough  to  question  you. 

Arc.     I  am  confident ; 

Pray  pardon  me,  come,  I  despise  all  danger  : 
Yet  a  dear  friend  of  mine,  my  Uncle  told  me 
He  would  not  see  my  body  full  of  wounds. 

Lis.     Your  Uncle,  this  is  strange. 

Arc.     Yes,  my  honest  Uncle, 
If  my  unlucky  Stars  have  pointed  me 
So  dire  a  fate. 

Phi.     There  is  some  strange  mistake  in't. 

Enter  Antigonus. 

Ant.     Arcadius,  the  Queen  would  speak  with  you, 
You  must  make  haste. 

Ar\c\.     Though  to  my  death,  I  flie 
Upon  her  summons  I  give  up  my  breath 
Then  willingly,  if  she  command  it  from  me. 

Phi.     This  does  a  little  trouble  me. 

Lis.     I  know  not 

What  to  imagine,  something  is  the  ground 
Of  this  perplexity,  but  I  hope  there  is  not 
Any  such  danger  as  he  apprehends. 

Enter  Queen,  Lisimachus,  Macarius,  Eubulus,  Seleucus 
Arcadius,  Ladies^  Attendants  and  Gent. 

Qu.     We  have  already  granted  to  Seleucus 
And  they  shall  try  their  valour,  if  Arcadius 
Have  spirit  in  him  to  accept  the  challenge, 
Our  Royal  word  is  past. 

Phi.     This  is  strange. 

Eub.     Madam,  my  son  knew  not  what  he  ask'd, 
And  you  were  cruel  to  consent  so  soon. 

Mac.     Wherein  have  I  offended,  to  be  rob'd 
At  once,  of  all  the  wealth  I  have,  Arcadius 
Is  part  of  me. 

B.-F.  VIII.  R  257 


THE  CORONATION          ACT  n 

Eub.      St'lnicm\  life  and   mine 
Arc   twisted   on  one  thred,   both   stand   or   fall 
Together,   hath  the  service  for  my  Countrey 
Deserved   but  this  reward,  to  be  sent  weeping 
To  my  eternal  home  ?     Was't  not  enough 
When   I  was  young,  to  lose  my  bloud   in   wars, 
But  the  poor  remnant  that  is  scarcely  warm 
And  faintly  creeping  through   my  wither'd  veins 
Must  be  let  out  to  make  you  sport. 

Mac.      How  can 

We,   that  shall  this  morn  see  the  sacred  oyl, 
Fall  on  your  Virgin  tresses,  hope  for  any 
Prote6tion   hereafter,  when  this  day 
You  sacrifice  the   blood  of  them  that  pray  for  you. 
Arcadius,  I   prethee  speak  thy  self, 
It  is  for  thee  I  plead. 

Eub.     Seleucus,  kneel 

And  say  thou  hast  repented  thy  rash  suit  ; 
If  e'er  I  see  thee  fight,  I  be  thus  wounded, 
How  will  the  least  drop  forc'd  from  thy  veins, 
Afflicl  my  heart. 

Mac.     Why,  that's  good  ; 
Arcadim^  speak  to  her  ;    hear  him  Madam. 

Arc.     If  you  call  back  this  honor  you  have  done  me 
I  shall  repent  I  live,  doe  not  perswade  me  : 
Se/eucuSj  thou  art  a  noble  enemy, 
And  I   will  love  thy  soul,  though  I  despair 
Our  bodies  friendly  conversation  : 
I  would  we  were  to  tugg  upon  some  clifFe, 
Or  like  two  prodigies  i'th'  air,  our  conflict 
Might  generally  be  gaz'd  at,  and  our  bloud 
Appease  our  grandsires  ashes. 

Mac.     I  am  undone. 

Sel.     Madam,  my  father  says  I  have  offended, 
If  so,  I  beg  your  pardon,  but  beseech  you 
For  your  own  glory,  call  not  back  your  word. 

Eub.     They  are  both  mad. 

Qu.     No  more,  we  have  resolv'd, 
And  since  their  courage  is  so  nobly  flam'd, 
This  morning  we'll  behold  the  Champions 

258 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Within  the  List,  be  not  afraid,  their  strife 

Will  stretch  so  far  as  death,  so  soon  as  we 

Are  Crown'd,  prepare  your  selves,  Seleucus.        [Kisses  her  hand. 

Sel.     I  have  receiv'd  another  life  in  this  high   favour, 
And  may  lose  what  nature  gave  me. 

Qu.     Arcadius,  to  encourage  thy  young  valour, 
We  give  thee  our  Fathers  sword. 
Command   it  from  our  Armory  ;    Lisimachus^ 
To  our  Coronation.  [Exeunt. 

Sel.     I'll   forfeit 
My  head  for  a  rebellion,  than  suffer  it.  [Exit. 

Arc.     I  am  circled  with  confusions,  I'll  do  somewhat 
My  brains  and  friends  assist  me.  [Exit. 

Phi.      But  do  you  think  they'll  fight  indeed  ? 

Lis.     Perhaps 

Her  Majesty  will  see  a  bout  or  two. 
And  yet  'tis  wondrous  strange,  such  spectacles 
Are  rare  i'th*  Court,  and  they  were  to  skirmish  naked 
Before  her,  then  there  might  be  some  excuse. 
There  is  gimcracks  in't,  the  Queen  is  wise 
Above  her  years. 

Phi.     Macarius  is  perplex'd. 

Enter  Eubulus. 

Lis.     I  cannot  blame  him,  but  my  Lord  Eubulus 
Returns,  they  are  both  troubled,  'las  good  men, 
But  our  duties  are  expected,  we  forget.  [Ex.  Phil.  Lis. 

Eub.     I  must  resolve,  and   yet  things  are  not  ripe, 
My  brains  upon  the  torture. 

Mac.     This  may  quit 

The  hazard  of  his  person,  whose  least  drop 
Of  blood,  is  worth  more  than  our  families. 
My  Lord  Eubulus^  I  have  thought  a  way 
To  stay  the  young  mens  desperate  proceedings, 
It  is  our  cause  they  fight,  let  us  beseech 
The  Queen,  to  grant  us  two  the  priviledge 
Of  Duel,  rather  than  expose  their  lives 
To  cithers  fury  ;    it  were  pity  they 
Should  run  upon  so  black  a  destiny, 
We  are  both  old,  and  may  be  spar'd,  a  pair 

R2  259 


THE  CORONATION          ACT  n 

Of  fruitless  trees,  mossie,  and   withered  trunks, 
That  fill  up   too  much   room. 

Eub.     Most  willingly, 

And   I  will  praise  her  charity  to  allow   it  ; 
I   have  not  yet   forg[o]t  to  use  a  sword, 
Let's  lose  no  time,   by   this  aft,  she  will  licence 
Our  souls  to  leave  our  bodies  but  a  day, 
Perhaps  an  hour   the  sooner  ;    they   may  live 
To  do  her  better  service,  and  be  friends 
When   we  are  dead,  and  yet  I   have   no  hope 
This  will  be  granted,  curse  upon  our   faction. 

Mac.     If  she  deny  us — 

Eub.     What  ? 

Mac.     I  wou'd  do  somewhat — 

Eub.     There's  something  o'  th'  suddain  struck  upon 
My  imagination  that  may  secure  us. 

Mac.      Name  it,  if  no  dishonor  wait  upon't 
To  preserve  them,  I'll  accept  any  danger. 

Eub.     There  is  no  other  way,  and  yet  my  heart 
Would   be  excus'd,  but  'tis  to  save  his  life. 

Mac.     Speak  it  Eubulus. 

Eub.     In  your  ear  I  shall, 
It  sha'not  make  a  noise  if  you  refuse  it. 

Mac.     Hum  ?  though  it  stir  my  bloud,  I'll  meet  Arcadius, 
If  this  preserve  thee  not,  I  must  unseal 
Another  mistery.  [Exit. 

Enter  Queen,  Lisimachus,  Cassander,  Charilla, 
Lisander,  Philocles,  Antigonus. 

Qu.     We  owe  to  all  your  loves,  and  will  deserve 
At  least  by  our  endeavours,  that  none  may 
This  day  repent  their  prayers,  my  Lord  Protestor. 

Cas.     Madam,  I  have  no 
Such  Title  now,  and  am  blest  to  lose 
That  name  so  happily  :    I  was  but  trusted 
With  a  glorious  burden. 

Qu.     You  have  prov'd 

Your  self  our  faithful  Counsellor,  and  must  still 
Protect  our  growing  state  :  a  Kingdoms  Scepter 
Weighs  down  a  womans  arm,  this  Crown  sits  heavy 

260 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Upon  my  brow  already,  and  we  know 

There's  something  more  than  mettal  in  this  wreath, 

Of  shining  glory,  but  your  faith,  and  counsel, 

That  are  familiar  with  mysteries, 

And  depths  of  state,  have  power  to  make  us  fit 

For  such  a  bearing,   in  which  both  you  shall 

Doe  loyal  service,  and  reward  your  Duties. 

Cas.     Heaven  preserve  your   Highness. 

Qu.     But  yet  my  Lords  and  Gentlemen,  let  none 
Mistake  me,  that  because  I  urge  your  wisdoms, 
I  shall  grow  careless,  and  impose  on  you 
The  managing  of  this  great  Province,  no, 
We  will  be  aclive  too,  and  as  we  are 
In  dignity  above  your  persons,  so, 
The  greatest  portion  of  the  difficulties 
We  call  to  us,  you  in  your  several  places 
Relieving  us  with  your  experience, 
Observing  in  your  best  directions 
All  modesty,  and  distance  ;    for  although 
We  are  but  young,  no  a6lion  shall  forfeit 
Our  royal  priviledge,  or  encourage  any 
Too  unreverent  boldness  ;    as  it  will  become 
Our  honor  to  consult,  e'r  we  determine 
Of  the  most  necessary  things  of  state, 
So  we  are  sensible  of  a  check, 
But  in  a  brow,  that  saucily  controuls 
Our  aftion,  presuming  on  our  years 
As  few,  or  frailty  of  our  sex  ;    that  head 
Is  not  secure,  that  dares  our  power  or  justice. 

Phi.     She  has  a  brave  spirit,  look  how  the  Protestor 
Grows  pale  already. 

Qu.     But  I  speak  to  you 
Are  perfe6l  in  obedience,  and  may  spare 
This  Theme,  yet  'twas  no  immat[eriall] 
Part  of  our  character,  since  I  desire 
All  should  take  notice,  I  have  studied 
The  knowledge  of  my  self,  by  which  I  shall 
Better  distinguish  of  your  worth  and   persons 
In  your  relations  to  us. 

Lis.     This  language 

261 


THE  CORONATION          ACT  n 

Is   but  a  threatening  to  some  body. 

Qu.     But  we  miss  some,  that  use  not  to  absent 
Their  duties  from  us,  where's  Macarius  ? 

Cos.      Retir'd  to  grieve,  your  Majesty  hath   given 
Consent,   Arcadius  should  enter  the  List 
To  day  with  young  Seleucus. 

Qu.     We  purpose 

Enter   Gentleman. 

They  shall  proceed,  what's  he  ? 

Phil.     A  Gentleman  belonging  to  Seleucus,  that  gives  notice 
He  is  prepar'd,  and  waits  your  royal  pleasure. 

Qu.     He  was  compos'd  for  aclion,  give  notice 
To  Arcadius^  and  admit  the  challenger  : 
Let  other  Princes  boast  their  gaudy  tilting, 
And  mockery  of  battles,   but  our  triumph 
Is  celebrated  with  true  noble  valour. 

Enter  Seleucus,  Arcadius,  at  several  doors,  their  Pages 
before  them,  bearing  their   Targets. 

Two  young  men  spirited  enough  to  have 

Two  kingdoms  staked  upon  their  swords,  Lisimachus 

Do  not  they  excellently  become  their   arms  ? 

'Twere  pity  but  they  should  do  something  more 

Then  wave  their  plumes.  [A  shout  within. 

What  noise  is  that  ? 

Enter  Macarius,  and  Eubulus. 

Mac.      The  peoples  joy  to  know  us  reconciled, 
Is  added  to  the  jubile  of  the  day, 
We  have  no  more  a  fadtion  but  one  heart, 
Peace  flow  in  every  bosom. 

Eub.     Throw  away 

These  instruments  of  death,  and  like  two  friends 
Embrace  by  our  example. 

Qu.     This  unfein'd  ? 

Mac.     By  our  duties  to  your  self,  dear  Madam 
Command  them  not  advance,  our  houses  from 
This  minute  are  incorporated  ;    happy  day 
Our  eyes  at  which  before  revenge  look'd  forth, 

262 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

May  clear  suspition,  oh  my  Arcadius  \ 

Eub.    We  have  found  a  nearer  way  to  friendship,  Madam, 
Than  by  exposing  them  to  fight  for  us. 

Qu.     If  this  be  faithful,  our  desires  are  blest. 
We  had   no  thought  to  waste,  but  reconcile 
Your  bloud  this  way,  and  we  did  prophesie 
This  happy  chance,  spring  into  cithers  bosom, 
Arcadius  and  Seleucus^  what  can  now 
Be  added  to  this  days  felicity  ? 
Yes,  there  is  something,  is  there  not  my  Lord  ? 
While  we  are  Virgin  Queen. 

Cas.     Ha,  that  string 
Doth  promise  Musick. 

Qu.     I  am  yet  my  Lords 
Your  single  joy,  and  when  I  look  upon, 
What  I  have  took,  to  manage  the  great  care 
Of  this  most  flourishing  kingdom,  I  incline 
To  think  I  shall  do  justice  to  my  self, 
If  I  choose  one,  whose  strength  and  virtue  may 
Assist  my  undertaking,  think  you  Lords, 
A  Husband  would  not  help  ? 

Lis.      No  question,  Madam, 
And  he  that  [you  purpose  to  make]  so  blest 

Must  needs  be  worthy  of  our  humblest  duty, 

It  is  the  general  vote. 

Qu.     We  will  not  then 

Trouble  Ambassadors  to  treat  with  any 

Princes  abroad,  within  our  own  dominion, 

Fruitful  in  honor,  we  shall  make  our  choice  ; 

And  that  we  may  not  keep  you  over  long 

In  th[e]  imagination,   from  this  circle,  we 

Have  purpose  to  ele6l  one,  whom  I  shall 

Salute  a  King  and  Husband. 

Lisa.      Now  my  Lord  Lisimachus. 

Que.     Nor  shall  we  in  this  aftion  be  accus'd 

Of  rashness,  since  the  man  we  shall  declare 

Deserving  our  affeclion,  hath  been  early 

In  our  opinion,  which   had  reason   first 

To  guide  it,  and  his  known  nobility 

Long  marry'd  to  our  thoughts,  will  justifie 

263 


THE  CORONATION          ACT  n 

Our  fair  election. 

Phi.      Lisimachus  blushes. 

Cas.     Direct  our  duties,   Madam,  to  pray  for  him. 

Out.     Arcadius,  you  see  from   whence  we  come, 
Pray  lead  us  back,  you  may  ascend.          [She  comes  from  the  State. 

Cas.     How's  this  ?    o're-reach'd  ? 

Arc.     Madam,  be  charitable  to  your  humblest  creature, 
Doe  not  reward  the  heart,  that  falls  in  duty 
Beneath  your  feet,  with   making  me  the  burden 
Of  the  Court-mirth,  a  mockery  for  Pages, 
'Twere  Treason   in  me  but  to  think  you  meane  thus. 

Que.     Arcadius,  you  must  refuse  my  love, 
Or  shame  this  Kingdom. 

Phi.     Is  the  wind  in  that  corner  ? 

Cas.     I  shall  run  mad  Lisimachus. 

Lisi.     Sir,  contain  your  self. 

Sel.     Is  this  to  be  believ'd  ? 

Mac.     What  dream   is  this  ? 

Phi.     He  kisses  her,  now  by  this  day  I  am  glad  on't. 

Lisa.     Mark  the  Protector. 

Ant.     Let  him  fret  his  heart-strings. 

Que.     Is  the  day  cloudy  on  the  sudden  ? 

Arc.     Gentlemen, 

It  was  not  my  ambition,  I  durst  never 
Aspire  so  high  in  thought,  but  since  her  Majesty 
Hath  pleas'd  to  call  me  to  this  honor,  I 
Will  study  to  be  worthy  of  her  grace, 
By  whom  I   live. 

Que.     The  Church  to  morrow  shall 
Confirme  our  marriage,  noble  Lisimachus ; 
We'll  find  out  other  wayes  to  recompence 
Your  love  to  us,  set  forward,  come  Arcadius. 

Mac.     It  must  be  so,  and  yet  let  me  consider. 

Cas.      He  insults  already,  policy  assist  me, 
To  break  his  neck. 

Lisi.     Who  would   trust  Woman  ? 
Lost  in  a  pair  of  minutes,  lost,  how  bright 
A  morning  rose,   but  now,   [and  now]   'tis  night  ?      [Exeunt. 


264 


ACT  in         THE  CORONATION 

Aftus  Tertius.     Scana  Prima. 

Enter  Polidora,  and  a  Servant. 
Pol.   i^\R  where  shall  Virgins  look  for  faith  hereafter? 


If  he  prove  false,  after  so  many  vowes  ? 
And  yet  if  I  consider,  he  was  tempted 
Above  the  strength  of  a  young  Lover,  two 
Such  glorious  courting  his  acceptance,  were 
Able  to  make  disloyalty  no  sin, 
At  least  not  seem  a  fault,  a  Lady  first, 
Whose  very  looks  would  thaw  a  man  more  frozen 
Than  the  Alps,  quicken  a  soul  more  dead  than  Winter, 
Add  to  her  beauty  and  perfection, 
That  she's  a  Queen,  and  brings  with  her  a  Kingdom 
Able  to  make  a  great  mind  forfeit  Heaven. 
What  could  the  frailty  of  Arcadius 
Suggest,  to  unspirit  him  so  much,  as  not 
To  fly  to  her  embraces,  you  were  present 
When  she  declar'd  her  self. 

Ser.     Yes  Madam. 

Pol.     Tell  me, 

Did  not  he  make  a  pause,  when  the  fair  Queen 
A  full  temptation  stood  him  ? 

Ser.     Very  little 

My  judgment  could  distinguish,  she  did  no  sooner 
Propound,  but  he  accepted. 

Pol.     That  was  ill, 

He  might  with  honor  stand  one  or  two  minutes, 
Me  thinks  it  should  have  startled  him  a  little, 
To  have  rememberd  me,  I  have  deserv'd 
At  least  a  cold  thought,  well,  pray  give  it  him. 

Ser.     I  shall. 

Pol.     When  ? 

Ser.     Instantly. 

Pol.     Not  so, 

But  take  a  time  when  his  joy  swels  him  most, 
When  his  delights  are  high  and  ravishing, 
When  you  perceive  his  Soul  dance  in  his  eyes, 
When  she  that  must  be  his  hath  drest  her  beauty, 

265 


THE  CORONATION         ACT  in 

With   all   her  pride,  and  sends  a  thousand   Cupids 
To  call   him  to  the  tasting  of  her  lip  ; 
Then  give   him   this,  and  tell   him,   while  I   live, 
I'll   pray   for  him. 

Ser.      I  shall.  [Exeunt. 

Enter  Cassander,  and  Lisimachus. 

Cas.      There   is  no  way  but  death. 

List.     That's  black,  and   horrid, 
Consider,  Sir,   it  was  her  sin,  not  his  ; 
I   cannot  accuse  him,  what  man  could  carry 
A  heart  so  frozen,  not  to  melt  at  such 
A  glorious  flame  ?     Who  could  not  fly  to  such 
A  happiness  ? 

Cas.     Have  you  ambition 
To  be  a  tame  fool  ?    see  so  vast  an  injury 
And  not   revenge   it  ?    make  me  not  suspecl 
Thy  Mother  for  this  sufferance,  my  Son. 

Lis.     Pray  hear  me,  Sir. 

Cas.      Hear  a  patient  gull, 
A  property,  thou  hast  no  blood  of  mine, 
If  this  affront  provoke  thee  not,  how  canst 
Be  charitable  to  thy  self,  and  let  him  live 
To  glory   in  thy  shame  ?    Nor  is   he  innocent  ; 
He  had  before  crept  slily  into  her  bosome, 
And  practised  thy  dishonor. 

List.     You  begin  to  stir  me,  Sir. 

Cas.      How  else  could  she  be  guilty 
Of  such  contempt  of  thee  ?    and  in   the  eye 
Of  all  the  Kingdom,  they  conspir'd  this  stain, 
When  they  had   cunning  meetings,  shall  thy  love 
And   blooming  hopes  be  scatter'd  thus,  and   Lisimachus 
Stand   idle  gazer  ? 

Lisi.     What,  Sir,  will   his  death 
Advantage  us,   if  she  be  false   to  me  ? 
So  irreligious,  and  to  touch  her  person — 
Pause,  we  may  be  observed. 

Enter  Philocles,  and  Lisander. 
Lisa.     'Tis  the   Proteclor 
266 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

And  his  son. 

Phi.      Alas,  poor  Gentleman,  I  pitty 
His  neglecl,  but  am  not  sorry  for  his  Father. 
['Tis]   a  strange   turne. 

Lisa.     The  whirligigs  of  Women. 

Phi.     Your  Graces  servant. 

Cas.     I  am  yours  Gentlemen, 
And  should  be  happy  to  deserve  your  loves. 

Phi.     Now  he  can  flatter. 

Lisa.     In't  Sir,  to  inlarge  your  sufferings,  I  have 
A  heart  doth  wish 

The  Q[u]een  had  known  better  to  reward 
Your  love  and  merit. 

[///«.]     If  you  would  express 
Your  love  to  me,  pray  do  not  mention  it, 
I   must  obey  my  fate. 

Phi.     She  will  be  married 
To  t'other  Gentleman   for  certain  then  ? 

Cas.     I  hope  you'll  wish   'em  joy. 

Phi.     Indeed  I  will,  Sir. 

Lisa.     Your  Graces  servant.  [Exit. 

Cas.     We  are  grown 
Ridiculous,  the  pastime  of  the  Court  : 
Here  comes  another. 

Enter  Seleucus. 

Sel.     Where's  your  Son,   my  Lord  ? 

Cas     Like  a  neglecled  servant  of  his  Mistress. 

Sel.     I  would  ask  him  a  question. 
*  Cas.     What  ? 

Sel.      Whether  the  Queen, 
As  'tis  reported,  lov'd  him,  he  can  tell 
Whether  she  promis'd  what  they  talke  of,  marriage. 

Cas.     I  can  resolve  you  that,  Sir. 

Sel.     She  did  promise  ? 

Cas.     Yes. 

Sel.     Then  shee's  a  Woman,  and  your  Son  ; 

Cas.     What  ? 

Sel.     Not  worthy  his  blood,  and  expectation, 
If  he  be  calme. 

267 


THE  CORONATION         ACT  in 

Cas.     There's  no  opposing  destiny. 

Sfl.     I  would  cut   the  Throat. 

Cas.     Whose  throat  ? 

&7.     The  destinies,  that's  all,  your  pardon,  Sir, 
I  am   Seleucus  still,  a  poor  shadow 
Oth'  World,  a  walking  picture,  it  concerns 
Not  me,  I  am   forgotten   by  my  stars. 

Cas.     The  Queen,  with  more  discretion,  might  ha  chosen 
Thee. 

Sel.      Whom  ? 

Cas.     Thee,   Seleucus. 

Sel.     Me  ?     I  cannot  dance,  and  frisk  with   due  activity, 
My  body  is  lead,  I  have  too  much  phlegme,  what  should 
I   do  with  a  Kingdome  ?    no,  Arcadius 
Becomes  the  cushion,  and  can  please,  yet  setting 
Aside  the  trick  that  Ladies  of  Blood  look  at, 
Another  Man  might  make  a  shift  to  weare 
Rich  Clothes,  sit  in  the  chair  of  state,  and  nod, 
Dare  venture  on  discourse,  that  does  not  trench 
On  compliment,  and  think  the  study  of  Armes 
And  Arts,  more  commendable  in  a  Gentleman, 
Than  any  Galliard. 

Cas.     Arcadius, 
And  you,  were  reconciled. 

Sel.     We  ?    yes,  oh  yes, 

But  'tis  not  manners  now  -to  say  we  are  friends, 
At  our  equality  there  had  been  reason, 
But  now  subjection  is  the  word. 

Cas.     They  are  not 
Yet  married. 

Sel.     I'll  make  no  Oath  upon't, 
My  Lord  Lisimacbusy 

A  word,  you'll  not  be  angry  if  I  love  you, 
May  not  a  Batchellor  be  made  a  Cuckold  ? 

List.     How,  Sir  ? 

Cas.  Lisimachus,  this  Gentleman 
Is  worth  our  embrace,  hee's  spirited, 
And  may  be  useful. 

SeL     Hark  you,  can  you  tell 
Where's  the  best  Dancing-master  ?    and  you  mean 

268 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

To  rise  at  Court,  practise  to  caper,  farewel 

The  noble  science,  that  makes  work  for  cutlers, 

It  will  be  out  of  fashion  to  weare  swords, 

Masques,  and  devices  welcome,  I  salute  you, 

Is  it  not  pitty  any  division 

Should  be  heard  out  of  Musick  ?     Oh  'twill  be 

An  excellent  age  of  crotchets  ;    and  of  Canters. 

Buy  Captains,  that  like  fools  will  spend  your  blood 

Out  of  your  Country,  you  will  be  of  less 

Use  than  your  feathers,  if  you  return  unman'd 

You  shall  be  beaten  soon  to  a  new  march, 

When  you  shall  think  it  a  discretion 

To  sell  your  glorious  buffes  to  buy  fine  pumps, 

And  pantables,  this  is  I  hope  no  treason. 

Enter  Arcadius  leading  the  Queen,  Charia,  Eubulus, 
Lisander,  Philocles,  Polidora,  servant. 

Cas.     Wot  stay  Lisimachus  ? 

List.     Yes,  Sir, 
And  shew  a  patience  above  her  injury. 

Arc.     This  honor  is  too  much,  Madam,  assume 
Your  place,  and  let  Arcadius  waite  still  : 
'Tis  happiness  enough  to  be  your  servant. 

Cas.     Now  he  dissembles. 

Que.     Sir,  you  must  sit. 

Arc.     I  am  obedient. 

Que.     This  is  not  Musick 

Sprightly  enough,  it  feeds  the  soul  with  melancholy. 
How  sayes  Arcadius? 

Arc.     Give  me  leave  to  think 
There  is  no  harmony  but  in  your  voice, 
And  not  an  accent  of  your  heavenly  tongue, 
But  strikes  me  into  rapture,  I  incline 
To  think,  the  tale  of  Orpheus  no  fable, 
'Tis  possible  he  might  inchant  the  Rocks, 
And  charme  the  Forrest,  soften  hell,  hell  it  self, 
With  his  commanding  Lute,  it  is  no  miracle 
To  what  you  work,  whose  very  breath  conveyes 
The  hearer  into  Heaven,  how  at  your  lips, 
Day-winds  gather  Perfumes,  proudly  glide  away, 

269 


THE  CORONATION         ACT  in 

To  disperse  sweetness  round  about  the  world. 

Se/.     Fine  stuff. 
Que.      You  cannot  flatter. 
Arc.      Not,  if  I  should  say, 

Nature  had  plac'd  you  here  the  creatures  wonder, 
And  her  own  spring,  from  which  all  excellence 
On  Earth's  deriv'd,  and  copyed  forth,  and  when 
The  character  of  fair,  and  good  in  others 
Is  quite  worne  out,  and  lost,  looking  on  you 
It  is  supply'd,  and  you  alone  made  mortal 
To  feed,  and  keep  alive  all   beauty. 

Se/.     Ha,  ha,  Can  you   indure   it  Gentlemen  ? 

Lisa.     What  do  you  meane  ? 

Set.     Nay,  ask  him  what  he  meanes,  mine  is  a  down 
Right  laugh. 

Que.     Well,  Sir,  proceed. 

Arc.     At  such  bright  eyes  the  stars  do  light  themselves, 
At  such  a  forehead  Swans  renew  their  white, 
From  such  a  lip  the  morning  gathers  blushes. 

Se/.     The  morning  is  more  modest  than  thy  praises, 
What  a  thing  does  he  make  her  ? 

Arc.     And  when  you  flie  to  Heaven  and  leave  this  world 
No  longer  maintenance  of  goodness  from  you  : 
Then  Poetry  shall  lose  all  use  with  us, 
And  be  no  more,  since  nothing  in  your  absence 
Is  left,  that  can  be  worthy  of  a  Verse. 

Se/.     Ha,  ha. 

Que.     Whose  that  ? 

Se/.     'Twas  I,  Madam. 

Arc.      Se/eucus  ? 

Cas.     Ha  ? 

Se/.     Yes,  Sir,  'twas  I  that  laugh'd. 

Arc.     At  what  ? 

Se/.     At  nothing. 

Lisa.     Contain  your  self,  Se/eucus. 

Eub.     Are  you  mad  ? 

Que.     Have  you  ambition  to  be  punish'd,  Sir  ? 

Se/.     I   need  not,  'twas  punishment 
Enough  to  hear  him  make  an  Idol  of  you,  he  left 
Out  the  commendation  of  your  patience,  I  was  a  little 

270 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Mov'd  in  my  nature,  to  hear  his  Rodomontados,  and 
Make  a  monster  of  his  Mistress,  which  I  pitty'd  first, 
But  seeing  him  proceed,   I  guest  he  brought  you 
Mirth  with  his  inventions,  and  so  made  bold  to  laugh  at  it. 

Que.     You  are  sawcy, 

We'll  place  you  where  you  sha'not  be  so  merry, 
Take  him  away. 

Lisa.     Submit  your  self. 

Arc.     Let  me  plead  for  his  pardon. 

Sel.     I  wo'd  not  owe  my  life  so  poorly,  beg  thy  own, 
When  you  are  King  you  cannot  bribe  your  destiny. 

Eub.     Good  Madam  hear  me,  I  fear  he  is  distracted, 
Brave  boy,  thou  should'st  bfe  Master  of  a  soul 
Like  his :    thy  honors  more  concern'd. 

Sel.     'Tis  charity, 
A  way  wo'  mee,  'boy  Madam  ? 

Cas.     He  has  a  daring  spirit.  \_Ex.  Sel.  Eub.  Cas. 

Arc.     These,  and  a  thousand  more  affronts  I  must 
Expecl :    your  favors  draw  them  all  upon  me ; 
In  my  first  state  I  had  no  enemies, 
I  was  secure,  while  I  did  grow  beneath 
This  expectation,  humble  valleys  thrive  with 
Their  bosomes  full  of  flowers,  when  the  Hills  melt 
With  lightning,  and  rough  anger  of  the  clouds, 
Let  me  retire. 

Que.     And  can  Arcadius 
At  such  a  breath  be  mov'd,  I  had  opinion 
Your  courage  durst  have  stood  a  tempest  for 
Our  love,  can  you  for  this  incline  to  leave 
What  other  Princes  should  in  vain  have  sued  for  ? 
How  many  Lovers  are  in  Epire  now 
Would  throw  themselves  on  danger,  not  expert 
One  enemy,  but  empty  their  own  veins, 
And  think  the  loss  of  all  their  blood  rewarded, 
To  have  one  smile  of  us  when  they  are  dying  ? 
And  shall  this  murmur  shake  you  ? 

Arc.     Not  dear  Madam, 
My  life  is  such  a  poor  despised  thing, 
In  value  your  least  graces,  that 
To  lose  it  were  to  make  my  self  a  victory, 

271 


THE  CORONATION         ACT  in 

It   is  not  for  my  self,  I   fear  :    the  envy 

Of  others  cannot   fasten   wound   in   me 

Greater,  than  that  your  goodness  should  be  check'd 

So  daringly. 

Que.     Let   not  those  thoughts  afflift  thee, 
While  we  have  power  to  correct  the  offences, 
Arcadius  be  mine,  this  shall  confirm  it. 

Arc.     I  shall   forget, 

And  lose  my  way  to  heaven,  that  touch   had   been 
Enough  to  have  restor'd  me,  and  infus'd 
A  spirit  of  a  more  celestial  nature, 
After  the  tedious  absence  of  my  soul, 
Oh  bless  me  not  too  much,  one  smile  a  day 
Would  stretch  my  life  to  mortality  ; 
Poets  that  wrap  divinity  in  tales, 
Look  here,  and  give  your  coppies  forth  of  angels, 
What  blessing  can  remain  ? 

Que.     Our  Marriage. 

Arc.     Place  then  some  horrors  in  the  way 
For  me,  not  you,  to  pass,  the  journeys  end 
Holds  out  such  glories  to  me,  I  should  think 
Hell  but  a  poor  degree  of  suffering  for  it, 
What's  that,  some  petition  ?    a  Letter  to  me. 

You  had  a  Polidora,  ha,  that's  all. 
Ith'  minu[t]e  when   my  vessels  new  lanch'd  forth, 
With  all  my  pride,  and  silken  wings  about  me 
I  strike  upon  a  Rock  :    What  power  can  save  me  ? 
You  had  a  PoKdora  ;    there's  a  name 
KilPd  with  grief,  I  can  so  soon   forget  her. 

Ser.     She  did  impose  on  me  this  service,  Sir, 
And  while  she  lives  she  sayes,  shee'll  pray  for  you. 

Arc.     She  lives, 

That's  well,  and  yet  'twere  better,  for  my  fame, 
And  honor,  she  were  dead  ;    What  fate  hath  plac'd  me 
Upon  this  fearful  precipice  ? 

Ser.     He's  troubled. 

Arc.     I  must  resolve,  my  faith  is  violated 
Already,  yet  poor  loving  Polidora 
Will  pray  for  me,  she  sayes,  to  think  she  can 
Render  me  hated  to  my  self,  and  every 

272 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Thought's  a  tormentor,  let  me  then  be  just. 

Que.     Arcadius. 

Arc.     That  voice  prevailes  agen,  oh  Polidora, 
Thou  must  forgive  Arcadius,  I  dare  not 
Turn  rebel  to  a  Princess,  I  shall  love 
Thy  vertue,  but  a  Kingdom  has  a  charme 
To  excuse  our  f[r]ailty,  dearest  Madam. 

Que.     Now  set  forward. 

Arc.     To  perfecl  all  our  joyes. 

Enter  Macarius,  and  a  Bishop,  Casander. 

Mac.     I'll  fright  their  glories. 

Cas.     By  what  means  ? 

Mac.     Observe. 

Arc.     Our  good  Unckle,  welcome. 

Que.     My  Lord  Macarius,  we  did  want  your  person, 
There's  something  in  our  joyes  wherein  you  share. 

Mac.     This  you  intend  your  highness  wedding  day. 

Que.     We  are  going. 

Mac.     Save  you  labor 
I  have  brought  a  Priest  to  meet  you. 

Arc.     Reverend  Father. 

Que.     Meet  us,  Why? 

Mac.     To  tell  you,  that  you  must  not  Marry. 

Cas.     Didst  thou  hear  that,  Lisimacbus? 

List.     And  wonder  what  will  follow. 

Que.     We  must  not  marry. 

Bish.     Madam,  'tis  a  rule 

First  made  in  heaven,  and  I  must  needs  declare 
You  and  Arcadius  must  tie  no  knot 
Of  Man  and  Wife. 

Arc.     Is  my  Unckle  mad  ? 

Que.     Joy  has  transported  him, 
Or  age  has  made  him  dote,  Macarius 
Provoke  us  not  too  much,  you  will  presume 
Above  our  mercy. 

Mac.     I'll  discharge  my  duty, 

Could  your  frown  strike  me  dead,  my  Lord,  you  know 
Whose  character  this  is. 

Cas.      It  is   Theodosiusy 

B.-F.  VIII.  S  273 


THE  CORONATION         ACT  in 

Your  graces  Father. 

Bis.     I  am  subscrib'd  a  witness. 

Phi.      Upon  my  life  'tis  his. 

Mac.     Fear  not,  I'll  cross  this  Match. 

Cas.     I'll  bless  thee  for't. 

Arc.     Unckle,  d'ee   know  what   you  do,  or  what  we  are 
Going  to  finish  ?  you  will  not  break  the  neck  of  my  glorious 
Fortune,  now  my  foots  ith'  stirrup,  and  mounting, 
Throw  me  over  the  saddle  ?    I  hope  you'll  let  one 
Be  a  King,  Madam,   'tis  as  you  say, 
My  Unckle  is  something  craz'd,  there's  a  worm 
In's  brain,   but  I  beseech  you  pardon   him,  he    is 
Not  the  first  of  your  counsel,  that  has  talk'd 
Idly,  d'ee  hear  my  Lord  Bishop,   I  hope 
You  have  more  Religion  than  to  joyn  with  him 
To  undoe  me. 

Bis.     Not  I  Sir,  but  I  am  commanded  by  oath, 
And  conscience  to  speak  truth. 

Arc.     If  your  truth  should  do  me  any  harm,  I  shall  never 
Be   in   charity  with  a  Croziers  stafFe,  look  too't. 

Que.     My  youngest  Brother. 

Cas.     Worse  and  worse,  my  brains.  [Exit. 

Mac.      Delivered]  to  me  an  Infant  with  this  writing, 
To  which  this  reverend  Father  is  a  witness. 

Lisa.     This  he  whom  we  so  long  thought  dead,  a  childe  ? 

Que.     But  what  should  make  my  Father  to  trust  him 
To  your  concealment  ?    give  abroad  his  death,  and  bury 
An  empty  coffin  ? 

Mac.     A  jealousie  he  had 
Upon  Cassander,  whose  ambitious  brain 
He  fear'd  would  make  no  conscience  to  depose 
His  son,  to  make  Lisimachus  King  of  Epire. 

Que.     He  made  no  scruple  to  expose  me  then 
To  any  danger  ? 

Mac.     He  secur'd  you,  Madam, 
By  an  early  Engagement  of  your  affeclion 
To  Lisimachus^  exempt  this  testimony, 
Had  he  been  Arcadius,  and  my  Nephew, 
I  needed  not  obtrude  him  on  the  state, 
Your  love  and  marriage  had  made  him  King 

274 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Without  my  trouble,  and  sav'd  that  ambition, 
There  was  necessity  to  open  now 
His  birth,  and  title. 

Phi.     Demetrius  alive. 

Arc.     What  riddles  are  these,  Whom  do  they  talk  of? 

Omn.     Congratulate  your  return  to  life,  and  honor, 
And  as  becomes  us,  with  one  voice  salute  you, 
Demetrius  King  of  Epire. 

Mac.     I  am  no   Uncle,  Sir,  this  is  your  Sister, 
I  should  have  suffer'd  incest  to  have  kept  you 
Longer  ith'  dark  :    love,  and  be  happy  both, 
My  trust  is  now  discharged. 

Lisa.     And  we  rejoyce. 

Arc.     But  do  not  mock  me,  Gentlemen, 
May  I  be  bold  upon,  your  words  to  say 
I  am  Prince   Theodosius  Son  ? 

Mac.     The  King. 

Arc.     You'll  justifie  it? 
Sister,  I  am  very  glad  to  see  you. 

Sop.     I  am  to  find  a  brother,  and  resign  my  glory, 
My  triumph  is  my  shame.  [Exit. 

Enter  Cassander. 

Cas.     Thine  ear  Lisimachus. 

Arc.      Gentlemen  I  owe 
Unto  your  loves,  as  large  acknowledgment 
As  to  my  birth,  for  this  great  honor,  and 
My  study  shall  be  equal  to  be  thought 
Worthy  of  both. 

Cas.     Thou  art  turn'd  Marble. 

List.     There  will  be  the  less  charge  for  my  Monument. 

Cas.     This  must  not  be,  sit  fast  young  King.          [Exit. 

Lisa.     Your  sister,  Sir,  is  gone. 

Arc.     My  sister  should  have  been  my  Bride,  that  name 
Puts  me  in  mind  of  Polidora^  ha  ? 
Lisander,  Philocles,  Gentlemen, 
If  you  will  have  me  think  your  hearts  allow  me 
Theodosius  son,  oh  quickly  snatch  some  wings, 
Express  it  in  your  haste  to  Polidoray 
Tell  her  what  title  is  new  dropt  from  heaven 

S2  275 


THE  CORONATION         ACT  iv 

To  make  her  rich  ;    onely  created  for  me  : 

Give  her  the  ceremony  of  my   Queen, 

With  all  the  state  that  may  become  our  Bride, 

Attend  her  to  this  throne  ;    Are  you  not  there  ? 

Yet  stay,  'tis  too  much   pride  to  send   for  her, 

Wee'll  go  our  self,  no  honor  is  enough 

For  Pol'idora,  to  redeem  our  fault, 

Salute  her  gently  from  me,  and,   upon 

Your  knee,  present  her  with  this  Diadem, 

'Tis  our  first  gift,  tell  her  Demetrius  follows 

To  be  her  guest,  and  give  himself  a  servant 

To  her  chast  bosome,  bid  her  stretch  her  heart 

To  meet  me,  I  am  lost  in  joy  and  wonder.    \Exeunt  Omnes. 

A5ius  Quartus.     Scana  Prima. 

Enter  Cassander,  Eubulus,  Soldier. 

Cos.      \\  7  Here's  the  Captain  of  the  Castle? 

VV        Sol.     Hee'll  attend  your  honors  presently. 

Cas.     Give  him  knowledge  we  expecl  him. 

Sol.     I  shall,  my  Lord.  [Exit. 

Cas.     He  is  my  creature,  fear  not, 
And  shall  run  any  course  that  we  propound. 

Eub.     My  Lord,  I  like  the  substance  of  your  plot, 
'Tis  promising,  but  matters  of  this  consequence 
Are  not  so  easily  perfecl,  and  it  does 
Concern  our  heads  to  build  upon  secure 
Principles,  though  Seleucus,  I   confess, 
Carry  a  high,  and  daring  spirit  in  him, 
'Tis  hard  to  thrust  upon  the  state  new  setled 
Any  impostor,  and  we  know  not  yet 
Whether  hee'll  undertake  to  play  the  Prince  ; 
Or  if  he  should  accept  it,  with  what  cunning 
He  can  behave  himself. 

Cas.     My  Lord,  affairs 

Of  such  a  glorious  nature,  are  half  finish'd, 
When  they  begin  with  confidence. 

Eub.     Admit 
He  want  no  art,  [n]or  courage,  it  must  rest 

276 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Upon  the  people  to  receive  his  title, 
And  with  what  danger  their  uncertain  breath 
May  flatter  ours,  Demetrius  scarcely  warm 
In  the  Kings  seat,  I  may  suspect. 

Cas.     That  reason 

Makes  for  our  part,  for  if  it  be  so  probable, 
That  young  Demetrius  should   be  living,  Why 
May  not  we  work  them  to  believe,  Leonatus, 
The  eldest  son  was,  by  some  trick,  preserved, 
And  now  would  claim  his  own  :    there  were  two  sons, 
Who  in  their  Fathers  life  we  supposed  dead, 
May  not  we  find  a  circumstance  to  make 
This  seem  as  clear  as  t'other,  let  the  vulgar 
Be  once  possest,  wee'll  carry  Epire  from 
Demetrius,  and  the  World. 

Eub.     I  could  be  pleas'd 
To  see  my  Son  a  King. 


Enter  Poleanus. 

The  Captain's  here. 

Pol.     I  waite  your  Lordships  pleasure. 

Cas.     We  come  to  visit  your  late  prisoner  : 
I  will  not  doubt,  but  you  intreat  him  fairly, 
He  will  deserve  it  for  himself,  and  you 
Be  fortunate  in  any  occasion, 
To  have  exprest  your  service. 

Pol.     Sir,  the  knowledge 
Of  my  honorable  Lord  his  Father,  will 
Instruct  me  to  behave  my  self  with  all 
Respedls  becoming  me,  to  such  a  son. 

Cas.     These  things  will  least 
Oblige  you,  but  how  bears  he  his  restraint  ? 

Pol.     As  one  whose  soul's  above  it. 

Eub.     Patiently  ? 

Pol.     With  contempt  rather  of  the  great  command 
Which  made  him  prisoner,  he  will  talke  sometimes 
So  strangely  to  himself. 

Eub.     Hee's  here. 


277 


THE  CORONATION         ACT  iv 

Enter  Seleucus. 

Sel.     Why  was  I   born   to  be  a  subjecl  ?    'tis 
Soon  answer'd,  sure  my   Father  was  no  Prince, 
That's  all  :   the  same  ingredients  use  to   make 
A   Man,  as  aclive,  though   not   royal   blood 
Went  to  my  composition,  and   I 
Was  gotten   with  as  good  a  will  perhaps, 
And   my  birth   cost  my  Mother  as  much  sorrow, 
As  I  had   been   born   an  Emperor. 

Cas.     While  I  look 

Upon  him,  something  in   his  face  presents 
A  King  indeed. 

Eub.     He  does  resemble  much 
Theodosius  too. 

Cas.     Whose  son  we  would  pretend  him, 
This  will  advance  our  plot. 

Sel.     'Tis  but  a  name, 
And  mere  opinion,  that  prefers^  one  man 
Above  another,  I'll  imagine  then 
I  am  a  Prince,  or  some  brave  thing  on  Earth, 
And  see  what  follows  :  but  it  must  not  be, 
My  single  voice  will  carry  it,  the  name 
Of  King  must  be  attended  with  a  troop 
Of  acclamations,  on  whose  ayrie  wings 
He  mounts,  and  once  exalted,  threatens  Heaven, 
And  all  the  stars  :    how  to  acquire  this  noise, 
And  be  the  thing  I  talke  of,  men  have  rise[n] 
From  a  more  cheap  nobility  to  Empires, 
From  dark  originals,  and  sordid  blood, 
Nay  some  that  had  no  fathers,  sons  of  the  earth, 
And  flying  people,  have  aspir'd  to  Kingdoms, 
Made  nations  tremble,  and  have  praclis'd  frowns 
To  awe  the  world,  their  memory  is  glorious, 
And  I  would  hug  them   in  their  shades,  but  what's 
All  this  to  me,  that  am  I  know  not  what, 
And  less  in  expectation  ? 

Pol.     Are  you  serious  ? 

Cas.     Will  you  assist,  and  run  a  fate  with   us. 

Pol.     Command  my  life,  I   owe  it  to  your  favor. 

278 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Sel.     Arcadius  was  once  as  far  from  being 
As  I,  and  had  we  not  so  cunningly 
Been  reconciled,  or  one,  or  both  had  gone 
To  seek  our  fortunes  in  another  world  ; 
What's  the  device  now  ?    If  my  death  be  next, 
The  summons  shall  not  make  me  once  look  pale. 

Cas.     Chide  your  too  vain  suspitions,  we  bring 
A  life,  and  liberty,  with  what  else  can  make 
Thy  ambition  happy,  th'ast  a  glorious  flame, 
We  come  to  advance  it. 

Sel.     How  ? 

Cas.     Have  but  a  will, 

And  be  what  thy  own  thoughts  dare  prompt  thee  to, 
A  King. 

*&/.      You  do  not  mock  me  Gentlemen  ? 
You  are  my  Father,  Sir. 

Eub.     This  minute  shall 
Declare  it,  my  Seleucus,  our  hearts  swell'd 
With  joy,  with  duty  rather,  oh  my  boy  ! 

Sel.     What's  the  mistery  ? 

Pol.     You  must  be  a  King. 

Cas.     Seleucus,  stay,  thou  art  too  incredulous, 
Let  not  our  faith,  and  study  to  exalt  thee, 
Be  so  rewarded. 

Eub.     I  pronounce  thee  King, 
Unless  thy  spirit  be  turn'd  coward,  and 
Thou  faint  to  accept  it. 

Sel.     King  of  what  ? 

Cas.     Of  Ep'ire. 

Sel.     Although  the  Queen,  since  she  sent  me  hither, 
Were  gone  to  Heaven  I  know  not  how, 
That  title  could  devolve  to  me. 

Cas.     We  have 

No  Queen,  since  he  that  should  have  married  her, 
Is  prov'd  her  youngest  brother,  and  now  King 
In  his  own  title. 

Sel.     Thank  you  Gentlemen, 
There's  hope  for  me. 

Cas.     Why,  you  dare  fight  with  him 
And  need  be,  for  the  Kingdom. 

279 


THE  CORONATION         ACT  iv 

St/.      With   Arcad'im? 

If  you'll  make  stakes,  my  life  against  his  crown, 
I'll  fight  with  him,  and  you,  and  your  fine  Son, 
And  all  the  Courtiers  one  after  another. 

Cas.     'Two'not  come  to  that. 

AW.     I  am  of  your  Lordships  mind,  so  fare  you  well. 

Cas.     Yet  stay  and   hear- 

Sel.     What  ?    that  you  have  betray'd  me  : 
Do,  tell  your  King,  my  life  is  grown  a  burden, 
And  I'll  confess,  and   make  your  souls  look  pale, 
To  see  how  nimble  mine  shall  leap  this  battlement 
Of  flesh,  and   dying,  laugh  at  your  poor  malice. 

Omnes.      No  more,  long  live  Leonatus  King  of  Epire. 

Sel.      Leonatus,  Who's  that  ? 

Cas.     Be  bold,  and  be  a  King,  our  brains   have  been* 
Working  to  raise  you  to  this  height,  here  are 
None  but  friends,  dare  you  but  call  your  self 
Leonatus,  and   but  justifie  with   confidence 
What  we'll  proclaime  you,   if  we  do  not  bring 
The  Crown  to  your  head,  we  [w]ill  forfeit  ours. 

Eub.  The  state  is  in  distraction,  Arcadius 
Is  prov'd  a  King,  there  was  an  elder  brother, 
If  you  dare  but  pronounce,  you  are  the  same, 
Forget  you  are  my  son. 

Pol.     These  are  no  trifles,  Sir,  all  is  plotted, 
To  assure  your  greatness  ;    if  you  will  be  wise, 
And  take  the  faire  occasion  that's  presented. 

Sel.     Arcadius,  you  say,  is  lawful  King, 
And  now  to  depose  him,  you  would  make  me 
An   elder  brother,   is't  not  so  ? 

Cas.     Most  right. 

Sel.      Nay,  right  or  wrong,  if  this  be  your  true  meaning. 

Omnes.      Upon  our  lives. 

Sel.     I'll  venture  mine,  but  with   your  pardon, 
Whose   brain  was  this  ?    from  whom  took  this  plot  life  ? 

Eub.     My  Lord   Cassander. 

Sel.     And  you  are  of  his  mind  ?    and  you  ?    and  think 
This  may  be  done  ? 

Eub.     The  destinies  shall  not  cross  us,  if  you  have 
Spirit  to  undertake  it. 

280 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Sel.     Undertake  it  ? 

I  am  not  us'd  to  compliment,  I'll  owe 
My  life  to  you,  my  fortunes  to  your  Lordship, 
Compose  me  as  you  please,  and  when  y'ave  made 
Me  what  you  promise,  you  shall  both  divide 
Me  equally  :    one  word,  my  Lord,  I  had  rather 
Live  in  the  prison  still,  than  be  a  propency 
To  advance  his  politick  ends. 

Eub.     Have  no  suspition. 

Cas.     So,  so,  I  see  Demetrius  heels  already 
Trip'd  up,  and  I'll  dispatch   him  out  oth'  way, 
Which  gone,  I  can  depose  this  at  my  leasure, 
Being  an  Impostor,  then  my  Son  stands  fair, 
And  may  piece  with  the  Princess,  we  lose  time, 
What  think  you,   if  we  first  surprize  the  Court  ? 
While  you  command  the  Castle,  we  shall  curbe 
All  opposition. 

Eub.     Let's  proclaim  him  first, 
I  have  some  faction,  the  people  love  me, 
They  gain'd  to  us,  wee'll  fall  upon  the  Court. 

Cas.      Unless  Demetrius  yield  himself,  he   bleeds. 

Sel.     Who  dares  call  treason  sin,  when  it  succeeds  ? 

[Exeunt  Omnes. 

Enter  Sophia,  and  Charilla. 

Cha.     Madam,  you  are  too  passionate,  and  lose 
The  greatness  of  your  soul,  with  the  expence 
Of  too  much  grief,  for  that  which  providence 
Hath  eas'd  you  of,  the  burden  of  a  state 
Above  your  tender  bearing. 

Sop.     Thour't  a  fool, 

And  canst  not  reach  the  spirit  of  a  Lady, 
Born  great  as  I  was,  and   made  onely  less 
By  a  too  cruel  destiny,  above 
Our  tender  bearing  :    What  goes  richer  to 
The  composition  of  Man,  than  ours  ? 
Our  soul  as  free,  and  spatious  ;    our  heart's 
As  great,  our  will  as  large,  each  thought  as  active, 
And   in  this  onely  Man   more  proud  than  we, 
That  would  have  us  less  capable  of  Empire, 

281 


THE  CORONATION         ACT  iv 

But  search   the  stories,  and   the  name  of  Queen 
Shines  bright  with  glory,  and  some  precedents 
Above  Mans  imitation. 

Cba.      I  grant   it 

For  the  honor  of  our  sex,  nor  have  you,   Madam, 
By  any  weakness,   forfeited  command, 
He  that  succeeds,   in  justice,  was  before  you, 
And  you  have  gain'd  more,  in  a  royal   brother, 
Than  you  could   lose   by  your  resign  of  Epire. 

Sop.     This  I  allow   C barilla,  I  ha  done  ; 
'Tis  not  the  thought  I  am  depos'd  afflicls  me, 
At  the  same  time  I  feel  a  joy  to  know 
My  Brother  living  :    no,   there  is  another 
Wound  in   me  above  cure. 

Cba.      Virtue  forbid. 

Sop.     Canst  find  me  out  a  Surgeon  for  that  ? 

Cba.     For  what  ? 

Sop.     My  bleeding  fame. 

Cha.     Oh   do  not  injure 
Your  own  clear  innocence. 

Sop.     Do  not  flatter  me, 
I    have  been  guilty  of  an  a6l,  will  make 
All  love  in  women  question'd,   is  not  that 
A   blot  upon  a  Virgins  name  ?    my  birth 
Cannot  extenuate  my  shame,  I  am 
Become  the  stain  of  Epire. 

Cha.     'Tis  but 

Your  own  opinion,  Madam,  which  presents 
Something  to  fright  your  self,  which  cannot 
Be  in  the  same  shape  so  horrid  to  our  sense. 

Sop.     Thou  wod'st,   but  canst  not  appear  ignorant  : 
Did  not  the  Court,  nay,  the  whole   Kingdom,  take 
Notice,  I  lov'd  Lisimachus  ? 

Cha.     True,  Madam. 

Sop.     No,  I  was  false, 

Though  counsel'd   by  my  Father  to  affect  him, 
I   had  my  politick  ends  upon   Cassander, 
To  be  absolute   Queen,  flattering  his  son   with   hopes 
Of  love  and  marriage,  when  that  very  day 
I   blush  to  think  I   wrong'd  Lisimachus^ 

282 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

That  noble  Gentleman,  but  heaven  punish'd  me  ; 
For  though  to  know  Demetrius  was  a  blessing, 
Yet  who  will  not  impute  it  my  dishonor. 

Cha.     Madam,  you  yet  may  recompence  Lisimachus, 
If  you  affecl:  him  now,  you  were  not  false 
To  him,  whom  then  you  lov'd  not,  if  you  can 
Find  any  gentle  passion  in  your  soul 
To  entertain  his  thought,  no  doubt  his  heart, 
Though  sad  retains  a  noble  will  to  meet  it, 
His  love  was  firm  to  you,  and  cannot  be 
Unrooted  with  one  storme. 

Sop.     He  will  not  sure 

Trust  any  language  from  her  tongue  that  mock'd  him, 
Although  my  soul  doth  weep  for't,  and  is  punish'd 
To  love  him  above  the  world. 

Enter  Lisimachus. 

Cha.     Hee's  here 

As  fate  would  have  him  reconciled,  be  free, 
And  speak  your  thoughts. 

List.     If,  Madam,  I  appear 
Too  bold,  your  charity  will  sign  my  pardon  : 
I  heard  you  were  not  well,  which  made  me  haste 
To  pay  the  duty  of  an   humble  visit. 

Sop.     You  do  not  mock  me,  Sir. 

List.     I  am  confident 

You  think  me  not  so  lost  to  manners,  in 
The  knowledge  of  your  person,  to  bring  with  me 
Such  rudeness,  I   have  nothing  to  present, 
But  a  heart  full  of  wishes  for  your  health, 
And  what  else  may  be  added  to  your  happiness. 

Sop.     I  thought  you  had  been  sensible. 

List.     How  Madam  ? 

Sop.     A  man  of  understanding,  can  you  spend 
One  prayer  for  me,  remembring  the  dishonor 
I  have  done  Lisimachus  ? 

Lisi.     Nothing  can  deface  that  part  of  my 
Religion   in  me,  not  to  pray  for  you. 

Sop.     It  is  not  then  impossible  you  may 
Forgive  me  too,   indeed  I  have  a  soul 

283 


THE  CORONATION         ACT  iv 

Is  full  of  penitence,  and  something  else, 
If  blushing  would  allow  to  give't  a  name. 

List.     What  Madam  ? 

Sop.     Love,  a  love  that  should  redeem 
My   past  offence,  and  make  me  white  again. 

List.      I   hope  no  sadness  can   possess  your  thoughts 
For  me,   I   am  not  worthy  of  this  sorrow, 
But  if  you   mean   it  any  satisfaction 
For  what  your  will  hath  made  me  suffer,  'tis 
But  a  strange  overflow  of  Charity, 
To  keep  me  still  alive,  be  your  self  Madam, 
And  let  no  cause  of  mine,  be  guilty  of 
This  rape  upon  your  eyes,  my  name's  not  worth 
The  least  of  all  your  tears. 

Sop.     You  think  'em  counterfeit. 

Lisi.     Although  I  may 
Suspect  a  Womans  smile  hereafter,  yet 
I  would  believe  their  wet  eyes,  and  if  this 
Be  what  you  promise,  for  my  sake,  I  have 
But  one  reply. 

Sop.     I  waite  it. 

Lisi.     I   have  now 
Another  Mistress. 

Sop.     Stay. 

Lisi.     To  whom  I  have  made 
Since  your  revolt  from  me,  a  new  chaste  vow, 
Which  not  the  second  malice  of  my  fate 
Shall  violate,  and  she  deserves  it,  Madam, 
Even  for  that  wherein  you  are  excellent, 
Beauty,  in  which  she  shines  equal  to  you 
Her  vertue,  if  she  but  maintain  what  now 
She  is  Mistress  of,  beyond  all  competition, 
So  rich  it  cannot  know  to  be  improv'd, 
At  least  in   my  esteem,  I  may  offend, 
But  truth  shall  justifie,  I  have  not  flatter'd  her, 
I  beg  your  pardon,  and  to  leave  my  duty 
Upon  your  hand,  all  that  is  good  flow  in  you.  [Exit. 

Sop.     Did  he  not  say,  Charilla,  that  he  had 
Another  Mistress? 

Cha.     Such  a  sound,  methought, 

284 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Came  from  him. 

Sop.     Let's  remove,  here's  too  much  ayre, 
The  sad  note  multiplies. 

Cha.     Take  courage,  Madam, 
And  my  advice,  he  has  another  Mistress, 
If  he  have  twenty,  be  you  wise,  and  cross  him 
With  entertaining  twice  as  many  servants, 
And  when  he  sees  your  humor  he'll  return. 
And  sue  for  any  Livery,  grieve  for  this. 

Sop.     It  must  be  she,  'tis  Polldora  has 
Taken  his  heart,  she  live  my  rival, 
How  does  the  thought  inflame  me  ! 

Cha.     Polidora  ? 

Sop.     And  yet  she  does  but  justly,  and  he  too  ; 
I  would  have  rob'd  her  of  Arcadius  heart, 
And  they  will  both  have  this  revenge  on  me, 
But  something  will  rebel.  [Exit. 

Enter  Demetrius,  Philocles,  Lisander. 

De.     The  house  is  desolate,  none  comes  forth  to  meet  us, 
Shee's  slow  to  entertain  us  :    Philocles^ 
I   prethee  tell  me,  did  she  weare  no  cloud 
Upon  her  brow,  was't  freely  that  she  said 
We  should  be  welcome. 

Phi.     To  my  apprehension, 
Yet  'tis  my  wonder  she  appears  not. 

Lisa.     She,  nor  any  other, 
Sure  there's  some  conceit 
To  excuse  it. 

Dem.     Stay,  Who's  this  ?    observe  what  follows  ? 

Phi.     Fortune  ?    some  maske  to  entertain  you,  Sir. 

Enter  Fortune  crown  d,  attended  with  Touth,  Health, 

and  Pleasure. 

For.     Not  yet  ?    What  silence  doth  inhabit  here  ? 
No  preparation  to  bid  Fortune  welcome  ! 
Fortune,  the  genious  of  the  World,  have  we 
Descended  from  our  pride,  and  state  to  come, 
So  far  attended  with  our  darlings,  Youth, 

285 


THE  CORONATION         ACT  iv 

Pleasure,  and   Health,  to  be  neglected  thus  ? 
Sure  this  is  not  the  place  ?    call   hither  Fame. 

Enter  Fame. 

Fa.     What  would  great  Fortune  ? 

For.      Know, 
Who  dwells  here. 

Fa.     Once  more  I  report  great  Queen, 
This  is  the  house  of  Love. 

For.     It  cannot  be, 

This  place  has  too  much  shade,  and  looks  as  if 
It  had  been  quite  forgotten  of  the  Spring, 
And  Sun-beames  Love,  affecl:  society, 
And  heat,  here  all  is  cold  as  the  hairs  of  Winter, 
No  harmony,  to  catch  the  busie  eare 
Of  passengers,  no  objedt  of  delight, 
To  take  the  wandring  eyes,  no  song,  no  grone 
Of  Lovers,  no  complaint  of  Wil[l]ow  garlands, 
Love  has  a  Beacon  upon  his  palace  top, 
Of  flaming  hearts,  to  call  the  weary  pilgrime 
To  rest,  and  dwell  with  him,  I  see  no  fire 
To  threaten,  or  to  warme  :    Can  Love  dwell  here  ? 

Fa.    If  there  be  noble  love  upon  the  World, 
Trust  Fame,  and  find  it  here. 

For.     Make  good  your   boast, 
And  bring  him  to  us. 

De.     What  does  mean  all  this  ? 

Lisa.     I  told  you,  Sir,  we  should  have  some  device. 

Enter  Love. 

There's  Cupid  now,  that  little  Gentleman, 

Has  troubled  every  Masque  at  Court  this  seven  year. 

Dem.     No  more. 

Love.     Welcome  to  Love,  how  much  you  honor  me  ! 
It  had  become  me,  that,  upon  your  summons, 
I  should  have  waited  upon  mighty  Fortune, 
But  since  you  have  vouchsafed  to  visit  me ; 
All  the  delights  Love  can  invent,  shall  flow 
To  entertain  you,  Musick  through  the  ayre 
Shoot  your  inticing  harmony. 

286 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

For.     We  came  to  dance  and  revel  with  you. 

Lov.     I  am  poor 

In  my  ambition,  and  want  thought  to  reach 
How  much  you  honor  Love.  [Dance. 

Enter  Honor. 

Hon.     What  intrusion's  this  ? 
Whom  do  you  seek  here. 

Lov.     'Tis  honor. 

For.     He  my  servant. 

Lov.     Fortune  is  come  to  visit  us. 

Hon.     And  has 

Corrupted  Love  :    Is  this  thy  faith  to  her, 
On  whom  we  both  waite,  to  betray  her  thus 
To  Fortunes  triumph  ?    take  her  giddy  wheel, 
And  be  no  more  companion  to  honor  ; 
I  blush  to  know  thee,  Who'll  believe  there  can 
Be  truth  in  Love  hereafter  ? 

Lov.     I  have  found 

My  eyes,  and  see  my  shame,  and  with  it,  this 
Proud  sorceress,  from  whom,  and  all  her  charmes, 
I  flye  agen  to  Honor,  be  my  guard, 
Without  thee  I  am  lost,  and  cannot  boast, 
The  merit  of  a  name. 

For.     Despis'd  ?    I  shall 
Remember  this  affront. 

Dem.     What  Moral's  this  ?  [Exeunt. 

Enter  Honor  with  the  Crown  upon  a  mourning 

Cushion. 

What  melancholly  object  strikes  a  sudden 

Chillness  through  all  my  veines  ;    and  turns  me  Ice  ? 

It  is  the  same  I  sent,  the  very  same, 

As  the  first  pledge  of  her  insuing  greatness  : 

Why  in  this  mourning  livery,  if  she  live 

To  whom  I  sent  it  ?    ha,  What  shape  of  sorrow  ? 

Enter  Polidora  in  mourning. 

It  is  not  Polidora^  she  was  faire 
Enough,  and  wanted  not  the  setting  off 

287 


THE  CORONATION         ACT  iv 

With  such  a  black  :    if  thou   beest  Polidora, 
Why  mournes  my  love  ?    it  neither  does  become 
Thy   fortune,  nor  my  joyes. 

Pol.     But  it   becomes 
My  griefs,  this  habit  fits  a  funeral, 
And  it  were  sin,  my  Lord,  not  to  lament 
A  friend  new  dead. 

Dem.     And  I  yet  living  ?    can 
A  sorrow  enter  but  upon  thy  Garment, 
Or  discomplexion   thy  attire,  whilst  I 
Enjoy  a  life  for  thee  ?    Who  can  deserve, 
Weigh'd  with   thy  living  comforts,  but  a  piece 
Of  all  this  Ceremony  ?    give  him  a  name. 

Pol.     He  was  Arcadius. 

Dem.     Arcadius  ? 

Pol.     A  Gentleman   that  lov'd  me  dearly  once, 
And  does  compel  these  poor,  and  fruitless  drops, 
Which  willingly  would  fall  upon   his  hearse, 
To  imbalme  him  twice. 

Dem.     And  are  you  sure  hee's  dead  ? 

Pol.     As  sure  as  you'r  living,  Sir,  and  yet 
I  did  not  close  his  eyes,  but  he  is  dead, 
And  I  shall  never  see  the  same  Arcadius  : 
He  was  a  Man  so  rich  in  all  that's  good, 
At  least  I  thought  him  so,  so  perfect  in 
The  rules  of  honor,  whom  alone  to  imitate 
Were  glory  in  a  Prince,  Nature  her  self, 
Till  his  creation,  wrought  imperfectly, 
As  she  had  made  but  tryal  of  the  rest, 
To  mould  him  excellent. 

Dem.     And  is  he  dead  ? 

Come,  shame  him  not  with  praises,  recollecl: 
Thy  scatter'd   hopes,  and  let  me  tell  my  best, 
And  dearest  Polidora,  that  he  lives, 
Still  lives  to  honor  thee. 

Pol.    Lives,  Where? 

Dem.     Look  here. 
Am  not  I  worth  your  knowledge  ? 

Pol.     And  my  duty, 
You  are  Demetrius^  King  of  Epire,  Sir. 

288 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

I  could  not  easily  mistake  him  so, 
To  whom  I  gave  my  heart. 

Dem.     Mine  is  not  chang'd, 
But  still  hath  fed  upon  thy  memory, 
These  honors,  and  additions  of  state 
Are  lent  me  for  thy  sake,  be  not  so  strange, 
Let  me  not  lose  my  entertainment,  now 
I  am  improved,  and  rais'd  unto  the  height, 
Beneath  which,  I  did  blush  to  ask  thy  love. 

Pol.     Give  me  your  pardon,  Sir,  Arcadiusy 
At  our  last  meeting,  without  argument, 
To  move  him  more  than  his  affeclion  to  me, 
Vow'd  he  did  love  me  ;    love  me  above  all  Women, 
And  to  confirm  his  heart,  was  truely  mine, 
He  wish'd,  I  tremble  to  remember  it, 
When  he  forsook  his  Polidoras  love, 
That  Heaven  might  kill  his  happiness  on  Earth  : 
Was  not  this  nobly  said  ?    did  not  this  promise 
A  truth  to  shame  the  Turtles  ? 

Dem.     And  his  heart 
Is  still  the  same,  and  I  thy  constant  Lover. 

Pol.     Give  me  your  leave,  I  pray,  I  would  not  say, 
Arcadius  was  perjur'd,  but  the  same  day 
Forgetting  all  his  promises,  and  oathes, 
While  yet  they  hung  upon  his  lips,  forsook  me, 
D'ee  not  remember  this  too,  gave  his  faith 
From  me,  transported  with  the  noise  of  greatness, 
And  would  be  married  to  a  Kingdom. 

Dem.     But  Heaven  permitted  not  I  should  dispose 
What  was  ordain'd  for  thee. 

Pol.     It  was  not  virtue 

In  him,  for  sure  he  found  no  check,  no  sting 
In  his  own  bosome,  but  gave  freely  all 
The  reines  to  blind  ambition. 

Dem.     I  am  wounded, 

The  thought  of  thee  ith'  throng  of  all  my  joyes, 
Like  poyson  powr'd  in  Nectar,  turnes  me  frantick : 
Dear,  if  Arcadius  have  made  a  fault, 
Let  not  Demetrius  be  punish'd  for't, 
He  pleads  that  ever  will  be  constant  to  thee. 

B.-F.  viii.  T  289 


THE  CORONATION         ACT  iv 

Pol.     Shall  I  believe  Mans  flatteries  agen, 
Lose  my  sweet  rest,  and   peace  of  thought  agen, 
Be  drawn   by  you,  from  the  streight  paths  of  virtue, 
Into  the  maze   of  Love. 

Dem.     I  see  compassion  in  thy  eye,  that  chides  me, 
If  I  have  either  soul,  but  what's  contain'd 
Within  these  words,  or   if  one  syllable 
Of  their  full  force,  be  not  made  good  by  me, 
May  all  relenting  thoughts  in  you  take  end, 
And  thy  disdain  be  doubled,  from  thy  pardon, 
I'll  count  my  Coronation  ;    and  that  hour 
Fix  with  a  rubrick  in  my  Calendar, 
As  an  auspicious  time,  to  entertain 
Affairs  of  weight  with   Princes  ;    think  who  now 
Intreats  thy  mercy,  come,  thou  sha't  be  kind, 
And  divide  Titles  with  me. 

Pol.     Hear  me,  Sir, 

I  lov'd  you  once  for  virtue,  and  have  not 
A  thought  so  much  unguarded,  as  to  be  won 
From  my  truth,  and  innocence  with  any 
Motives  of  state  to  afFecl  you, 

Your  bright  temptation   mourns  while  it  stayes  here  ; 
Nor  can  the  triumph  of  glory,  which  made  you 
Forget  me,  so  court  my  opinion  back, 
Were  you  no  King,  I  should  be  sooner  drawn 
Again  to  love  you,  but  'tis  now  too  late, 
A  low  obedience  shall  become  me  best  : 
May  all  the  joyes  I  want 
Still  wait  on  you,  if  time  hereafter  tell  you, 
That  sorrow  for  your  fault  hath  struck  me  dead, 
May  one  soft  tear  drop  from  your  eye,  in  pitty 
Bedew  my  hearse,  and  I  shall  sleep  securely  : 
I  have  but  one  word  more  for  goodness  sake, 
For  your  own  honor,  Sir,  correcl  your  passion, 
To  her  you  shall  love  next,  and  I  forgive  you.  [Exit. 

Dem.     Her  heart  is  frozen  up,  nor  can  warm  prayers 
Thaw  it  to  any  softness. 

Phi.     I'll  fetch  her,  Sir,  again. 

Dem.     Perswade  her  not. 

Phi.     You  give  your  passion  too  much  leave  to  triumph. 

290 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Seek  in  another  what  she  denies. 

Enter  Macarius. 

Mac.     Where's  the  King  ?   oh,  Sir,  you  are  undone, 
A  dangerous  treason  is  a  foot. 

Dem.     What  Treason  ? 

Mac.      Cassander^  and  Eubulus  have  proclaim'd 
Another  King,  whom  they  pretend  to  be 
Leonatus  your  elder  Brother,  he  that  was, 
But  this  morning  prisoner  in  the  Castle. 

Dem.     Ha  ? 

Mac.     The  easie  Epirotes 
Gather  in  multitudes  to  advance  his  Title, 
They  have  seised  upon  the  Court,  secure  your  person, 
Whilst  we  raise  power  to  curbe  this  Insurrection. 

Ant.     Lose  no  time  then. 

Dem.     We  will  not  Arme  one  Man, 
Speak  it  agen,  have  I  a  brother  living  ? 
And  must  be  no  King. 

Mac.     What  means  your  Grace  ? 

Dem.     This  newes  doth  speak   me  happy,  it  exalts 
My  heart,  and  makes  me  capable  of  more 
Than  twenty  Kingdoms. 

Phi.     Will  you  not,  Sir,  stand 
Upon  your  guard  ? 

Dem.     I'll  stand  upon  my  honor, 
Mercy  relieves  me. 

Lisa.     Will  you  lose  the  Kingdom  ? 

Dem.     The  World's  too  poor  to  bribe  me  :    leave 
Me  all,  lest  you  extenuate  my  fame,  and  I 
Be  thought  to  have  redeem'd  it  by  your  counsel, 
You  shall  not  share  one  scruple  in  the  honor  ; 
Titles  may  set  a  gloss  upon  our  Name, 
But  Virtue  onely  is  the  soul  of  Fame. 

Mac.     He's  strangely  possest  Gentlemen.   [Exeunt  Omnes. 


T2  291 


THE  CORONATION  ACT  v 

Aftus   Quintus.     Sccena  Prima. 

Enter  Philocles,  and  Lisander. 

Phi.  r  Eres  a  strange  turne,  Lisander. 

Lisa.     'Tis  a  Kingdom 
Easily  purchas'd,  who  will  trust  the  faith 
Of  multitudes  ? 

Phi.     It  was  his  fault,  that  would 
So  tamely  give  his  Title  to  their  Mercy, 
The  new  King  has  possession. 

Lisa.     And  is  like 

To  keep't,  we  are  alone,  what  dost  think  of 
This  innovation  ?    Is't  not  a  fine  Jigge  ? 
A  precious  cunning  in  the  late  Protector 
To  shuffle  a  new  Prince  into  the  state. 

Phi.     I  know  not  how  they  have  shuffled,  but  my  head  on't, 
A  false  card  is  turn'd  up  trump,  but  fates  look  to't. 

Enter  Cassander  and  Eubulus. 

Eub.     Does  he  not  carry  it  bravely  ? 

Cas.     Excellently. 
Philocles,  Lisander. 

Phi.  Lis.     Your  Lordships  servants, 
Are  we  not  bound  to  heaven,  for  multiplying 
These  blessings  on  the  Kingdom. 

Phi.     Heaven  alone 
Works  miracles,  my  Lord. 

Lisa.     I  think  your  Lordship 
Had  as  little  hope  once  to  see  these  Princes 
Revive. 

Phi.     Here  we  must  place  our  thanks, 
Next  providence,  for  preserving 
So  dear  a  pledge. 

Enter  Leonatus  attended. 

Eub.     The  King. 

Leo.     It  is  our  pleasure 
The  number  of  our  guard  be  doubled,  give 
A  Largess  to  the  Soldiers  ;    but  dismiss  not 

292 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

The  Troops  till  we  command. 

Cas.     May  it  please. 

Leo.     It  will  not  please  us  otherwise,  my  Lord, 
We  have  try'd  your  faith. 

Eub.     Does  he  not  speak  with  confidence  ? 

Leo.     My  Lords  and  Gentlemen,  to  whose  faith  we  must 
Owe  next  to  Heaven  our  fortune,  and  our  safety, 
After  a  tedious  eclipse,  the  day 
Is  bright,  and  we  invested  in  those  honors, 
Our  bloud,  and  birth  did  challenge. 

Cas.     May  no  time 

Be  registred  in  our  annals,  that  shall  mention 
One  that  had  life  to  oppose  your  sacred  person. 

Leo.     Let  them,  whose  Titles  forg'd  and  flaw'd,  suspect 
Their  states  security,  our  right  to  Epirey 
Heaven  is  oblig'd  to  prosper,  treason  has 
No  face  so  black  to  fright  it,  all  my  cares 
Level  to  this,  that  I  may  worthily 
Manage  the  province,  and  advance  the  honor 
Of  our  dear  Countrey,  and  be  confident, 
If  an  expence  of  bloud,  may  give  addition 
Of  any  happiness  to  you,  I  shall 
Offer  my  heart  the  sacrifice,  and  rejoyce 
To  make  my  self  a  ghost,  to  have  inscribed 
Upon  my  marble,  but  whose  cause  I  died  for. 

Eub.     May  Heaven  avert  such  danger. 

Cas.     Excellent  Prince, 
In  whom  we  see  the  Copy  of  his  Father, 
None  but  the  Son  of  Theodosius, 
Could  have  spoke  thus. 

Leo.     [You]  are  pleas'd  to  interpret  well, 
Yet  give  me  leave  to  say  in  my  own  justice, 
I  have  but  exprest  the  promptness  of  my  soul 
To  serve  you  all,  but  'tis  not  empty  wishes 
Can  satisfie  our  mighty  charge,  a  weight 
Would  make  an   Atlas  double,  a  Kings  name 
Doth  sound  harmoniously  to  men  at  distance  ; 
And  those  who  cannot  penetrate  beyond 
The  bark,  and  out-skin  of  a  Common-wealth, 
Or  state,  have  eyes,  but  ravish'd  with  the  Ceremony 

293 


THE  CORONATION          ACT  v 

That  must  attend  a  Prince,  and  understand   not 

What  cares  allay  the  glories  of  a  Crown, 

But  good  Kings  find  and  feel  the  contrary, 

You  have  try'd,  my   Lord,  the  burden,  and  can   tell 

It  would   require  a  Pilot  of  more  years 

To  steer  this  Kingdom,  now  impos'd  on  me, 

By  justice  of  my   birth. 

Cas.     I  wish  not  life, 

But  to  partake  those  happy  days,  which  must 
Succeed  these  fair  proceedings,  we  are  blest, 
But  Sir,  be  sparing  to  your  self,  we- shall 
Hazard  our  joyes  in  you  too  soon,  the   burden 
Of  state  affairs,   impose  upon  your  counsel. 
'Tis  fitter  that  we  waste  our  lives  than  you, 
Call  age  too  soon  upon  you  with   the  trouble, 
And  cares  that  threaten  such  an  undertaking, 
Preserve  your  youth. 

Leo.     And  choose  you  our  Prote[c]tor, 
Is't  that  you  would  conclude  my  Lord  ?     We  will 
Deserve  our  subjects  faith  for  our  own  sake, 
Not  sit  an  idle  gazer  at  the  helm. 

Enter  Messenger. 

Phi.     How  observed  you  that, 
Mark  how   Cassander's  Planet  struck. 

Eu.     He  might  have  look'd  more  calmly  for  all  that, 
I  begin  to  fear  ;    but  do  not  yet  seem  troubled. 

Leo.     With  what  news  travels  his  haste  ?    I  must  secure 
My  self  betimes,  not  be  a  King  in  jest, 
And  wear  my  Crown  a  Tenant  to  their  breath. 

Cas.      Demetrius^  Sir,  your  brother, 
With  other  Traitors  that  oppose  your  claims, 
Are  fled  to  the  Castle  of  Nestorius, 
And  fortifie. 

Mes.     I  said  not  so  my  Lord. 

Cas.      I'll  have  it  thought  so,  hence.  [Exit  Messen. 

Leo.     Plant  forces  to  batter 
The  walls,  and  in  their  ruin  bring  us  wor[d] 
They  live  not. 

Eub.     Good  Sir  hear  me. 

294 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Cas.     Let  it  work, 

Were  Demetrius  dead,  we  easily  might  uncrown 
This  swoln  Impostor,  and  my  Son  be  fair 
To  piece  with  young  Sophia,  who  I  hear 
Repents  her  late  affront. 

Eub.     Their  lives  may  do 

You  service,  let  not  blood  stain  your  beginnings 
The  people  not  yet  warm  in  their  allegeance, 
May  think  it  worth  their  tumult  to  revenge  it 
With  hazard  of  your  self. 

Leo.     Who  dares  but  think  it  ? 
Yet  offer  first  our  mercy,  if  they  yield, 
Demetrius  must  not  live,  my  Lord  your  counsel, 
What  if  he  were  in  heaven  ? 

Cas.     You  have  my  consent, 
You  sha'not  stay  long  after  him. 

Leo.     Sophia  is 
Not  my  Sister, 

To  prevent  all  that  may  indanger  us,  we'll  marry  her  ; 
That  done,  no  matter  though  we  stand  discover'd, 
For  in  her  Title  then  we  are  King  of  Epire, 
Without  dispute. 

Cas.     Hum  ;    in  my  judgement,  Sir, 
That  wonot  do  so  well. 

Leo.     What's  your  opinion  ? 

Cas.     He  countermines  my  plot  :    are  you  so  cunning. 

Leo.     What's  that  you  mutter  ;    Sir  ? 

Cas.     I  mutter,  Sir  ? 

Leo.     Best  say  I  am  no  King,  but  some  impostor 
Rais'd  up  to  gull  the  state. 

Cas.     Very  fine  to  have  said  within 
Few  hours  you'd  been  no  King,  nor  like  to  be, 
Was  not  in  the  compass  of  High  Treason 
I  take  it. 

Eub.     Restrein  your  anger,  the  Kings  mov'd,  speak   not. 

Cas.     I  will  speak  louder,  do  I  not  know  him  ? 
That  self-same  hand  that  rais'd  him  to  the  throne 
Shall  pluck  him  from  it,  is  this  my  reward  ? 

Leo.     Our  guard,  to  prison  with  him. 

Cas.     Me  to  prison  ? 

295 


THE  CORONATION  ACT  v 

Leo.     Off  with   his  head. 

Cas.     My   head? 

Eub.      Vouchsafe  to  hear  me,  great  Sir. 

Cas.      How  dares  he  be  so  insolent  ? 
I   ha'  wrought  my  self  into  a  fine  condition, 
Do'e  know  me  Gentlemen  ? 

Phi.     Very  well  my  Lord  ; 
How  are  we   bound  to  heaven  for  multiplying 
These  blessings  on  the  Kingdom. 

Leo.     We  allow  it. 

Eub.     Counsel  did  never  blast  a  Princes  ear. 

Leo.     Convey  him  to  the  sanctuary  of  Rebels, 
Nestorius  house,  where  our  proud  brother  has 
Enscons'd  himself,  they'll  entertain   him  lovingly, 
He  will   be  a  good  addition   to  the  Traitors, 
Obey  me,  or  you  dye  for't,  what  are  Kings 
When  subjects  dare  affront  'em  ? 

Cas.     I  shall  vex 
Thy  soul   for  this. 

Leo.     Away  with  him  :    when   Kings 
Frown,  let  offenders  tremble,  this  flows  not 
From  any  cruelty  in  my  nature,  but 
The  fate  of  an  Usurper  :    he  that  will 
Be  confirm'd  great  without  just  title  to't, 
Must  lose  compassion,  know  what's  good,  not  do't.    [Exeunt. 

Enter  Polidora  and  her  servant. 

Serv.     Madam,  the  Princess  Sophia. 
Pol.     I  attend  her   Highness. 

Enter  Sophia. 

How  much  your  grace  honors  your  humble  servant. 

Sop.      I  hope  my  brother's  well. 

Pol.     I  hope  so  too,  Madam. 

Sop.      Do  you  but  hope  ?    he  came  to  be  your  guest. 

Pol.     We  are  all  his,  whilst  he  is  pleas'd  to  honor 
This  poor  roof  with  his  royal  presence,   Madam. 

Sop.     I  came  to  ask  your  pardon   Polidora. 

Pol.     You  never,   Madam,  trespass'd  upon   me, 
Wrong  not  your  goodness. 

296 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Sop.     I  can  be  but  penitent, 
Unless  you  point  me  out  some  other  way 
To  satisfie. 

Pol.     Dear  Madam,  do  not  mock  me. 

Sop.     There  [is]  no  injury  like  that  to  love, 
I  find  it  now  in  my  own  sufferings  : 
But  though  I  would   have  rob'd  thee  of  Arcadlus 
Heaven  knew  a  way  to  reconcile  your  hearts, 
And  punish[d]  me  in  those  joys  you  have  found  : 
I   read  the  story  of  my  loss  of  honor, 
Yet  can  rejoyce,  and  heartily,  that  you 
Have  met  your  own  agen. 

Pol.     Whom  do  you  mean  ? 

Sop.     My  brother. 

Pol.     He  is  found  to  himself  and  honor, 
He  is  my  King,  and  though  I  must  acknowledge 
He  was  the  glory  of  my  thoughts,  and  I 
Lov'd  him,  as  you  did,  Madam,  with  desire 
To  be  made  his,  reason,  and  duty  since, 
Form'd  me  to  other  knowledge,  and  I  now 
Look  on  him  without  any  wish  of  more 
Than  to  be  call'd  his  subject. 

Sop.     Has  he  made 
Himself  less  capable  by  being  King? 

Pol.     Of  what  ? 

Sop.     Of  your  affeclion. 

Pol.     With  your  pardon,  Madam. 
Love  in  that  sense  you  mean,  left  Polidora 
When  he  forsook  Arcadius^  I  disclaim 
All  ties  between  us,  more  than  what  a  name 
Of  King  must  challenge  from  my  obedience. 

Sop.     This  does  confirm  my  jealousie,  my  heart, 
For  my  sake,  Madam,  has  he  lost  his  value  ? 

Pol.     Let  me  beseech  your  grace,  I  may  have  leave 
To  answer  in  some  other  cause,  or  person  : 
This  argument  but  opens  a  sad  wound 
To  make  it  bleed  afresh  ;    we  may  change  this 
Discourse  :    I  would  elecl:  some  subject,  whose 
Praises  may  more  delight  your  ear  than  this 
Can  mine  j    let's  talk  of  young  Lisimachus. 

297 


THE  CORONATION          ACT  v 

Sop.      Ha  ?  my  presaging  fears. 

Pol.     How  does  your  grace  ? 

Sop.     Well,  you  were  talking  of  Lisimachusy 
Pray  give  me  your  opinion  of  him. 

Pol.     Mine  ? 

It  will  be  much  short  of  his  worth  :    I  think  him 
A  gentleman  so  perfect  in  all  goodness, 
That  if  there  be  one  in  the  world  deserves 
The  best  of  women,  heaven  created  him, 
To  make  her  happy. 

Sop.      You  have,  in  a  little,  Madam, 
Exprest  a  volume  of  mankind,  a  miracle; 
But  all  have  not  the  same  degree  of  faith, 
He  is  but  young. 

Pol.     What  Mistriss  would  desire 
Her  servant  old  ?    he  has  both  Spring  to  please 
Her  eye  and   Summer  to  return  a  harvest. 

Sop.     He  is  black. 

P[o\l.      He  sets  a  beauty  off  more  rich, 
And  she  that's  fair  will  love  him  ;    faint  complexions 
Betray  effeminate  minds,  and  love  of  change  : 
Two  beauties  in  a  bed,  compound  few  men  ; 
He's  not  so  fair  to  counterfeit  a  woman, 
Nor  yet  so  black,  but  blushes  may  betray 
His  modesty. 

Sop.     His  proportion  exceeds  not. 

Pol.     That  praises  him,  and  a  well  compacted  frame 
Speaks  temper,  and  sweet  flow  of  elements  : 
Vast  buildings  are  more  oft  for  shew  than  use  : 
I  would  not  have  my  eyes  put  to  the  travel 
Of  many  acres,  e'r  I  could  examine 
A  man   from  head  to  foot ;    he  has  no  great, 
But  he  may  boast,  an  elegant  composition. 

Sop.     I'll  hear  no  more,  you  have  so  far  out-done 
My  injuries  to  you,  that  I  call  back 
My  penitence,  and  must  tell  Polidora, 
This  revenge  ill  becomes  her.     Am  I  thought 
So  lost  in  soul  to  hear,  and  forgive  this  ? 
In  what  shade  do  I  live  ?    or  shall  I  think 
I  have  not,  at  the  lowest,  enough  merit, 

298 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Setting  aside  my  birth,  to  poize  with  yours  : 

Forgive  my  modest  thoughts,  if  I  rise  up 

In  my  own  defence,  and  tell  this  unjust  Lady 

So  great  a  winter  hath  not  frozen  yet 

My  cheek,  but  there  [is]  something  nature  planted, 

That  carries  as  much  bloom,  and  spring  upon't, 

As  yours.     What  flame  is  in  your  eye,  but  may 

Find  competition  here  ?    (forgive  agen 

My  Virgin  honor,)  what  is  in  your  lip 

To  tice  the  enamourM  soul,  to  dwell  with  more 

Ambition,  than  the  yet  unwither'd  blush 

That  speaks  the  innocence  of  mine  ? 

Enter  Demetrius. 

Oh  brother  ? 

Dem.     I'll  talk  with  you  anon,  my  Polidora^ 
Allow  thy  patience  till  my  breath  recover, 
Which  now  comes  laden  with  the  richest  news 
Thy  ear  was  ever  blest  with. 

Sop.     Both  your  looks, 
And  voice  express  some  welcome  accident. 

Dem.     Guess  what  in  wish  could  make  me  fortunate 
And  heaven   hath  dropt  that  on  Demetrius. 

Sop.     What  means  this  extasie  ? 

Dem.     'Twere  sin  to  busie 

Thy  thoughts  upon't,  I'll  tell  thee  that  I  could 
Retein  some  part ;    'tis  too  wide  a  joy 
To  be  exprest  so  soon,  and  yet  it  falls 
In  a  few  syllables,  thou  wot  scarce  believe  me, 
I  am  no  King. 

Sop.     How's  that  ! 

Pol.     Good   Heaven  forbid. 

Dem.     Forbid  ?     Heaven  has  reliev'd  me  with  a  mercy 
I  knew  not  how  to  ask,  I  have,  they  say, 
An  elder  brother  living,  crown'd  already, 
I  only  keep  my  name  Demetrius, 
Without  desire  of  more  addition, 
Than  to  return  thy  servant. 

Pol.     You  amaze  me, 
Can  you  rejoyce  to  be  deposed  : 

299 


THE  CORONATION  ACT  v 

Dem.      It   but 

Translates  me  to  a  fairer  and   better  Kingdom 
In   Poli  dor  a. 

Pol.     Me  ? 

Dem.      Did   you  not  say, 

Were  I  no  King,  you  could   be  drawn   to  love 
Me  agen,  that  was  consented  to  in   Heaven  : 
A   Kingdom  first  betraid  my  ambitious  soul 
To  forget  thee,  that,  and  the  flattering  glories, 
How  willingly  Demetrius  does  resign, 
The  Angels  know  :    thus  naked  without  Titles 
I  throw  me  on  thy  charity,  and  shall 
Boast  greater  Empire  to  be  thine  agen,  than 
To  wear  the  triumphs  of  the  world  upon   me. 

Enter  Macarius. 

Mac.     Be  not  so  careless  of  your  self,  the  people 
Gather  in  multitudes  to  your  protection 
Offering  their  lives  and  fortunes,  if  they  may 
But  see  you  Sir,  and  hear  you  speak  to  'em, 
Accept  their  duties,  and  in  time  prevent 
Your  ruin. 

Sop.     Be  not  desperate,  'tis  counsel. 

Dem.     You  trouble  me  with  noise,  speak  Polidora. 

Pol.     For  your  own   sake  preserve  your  self, 
My  fears  distract  my  reason. 

Enter  Antigonus. 

Ant.     Lord  LisimacbuSy 

With  something  that  concerns  your  safety,  is 
Fled  hither,  and  desires  a  present  hearing. 

Mac.     His  soul  is  honest,  be  not,  Sir,  a  mad  man, 
And  for  a  Lady,  give  up  all  our  freedoms.  [Exit. 

Pol.     I'll  say  any  thing  here,  Llsimachus. 

Sop.     Dear  brother  hear  him. 

Enter  Lisimachus. 

Lis.     Sir,  I  come  to  yield 
My  self  your  prisoner,  if  my  father  have 
Rais'd  an  Impostor  to  supplant  your  Title 

300 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Which  I  suspect,  and  inwardly  do  bleed  for, 
I  shall  not  only,  by  the  tender  of 
My  self,  declare  my  innocence,  but  either, 
By  my  unworthy  life,  secure  your  person, 
Or  by  what  death  you  shall  impose,  reward 
The  unexpected  Treason. 

Sop.     Brave  young  man, 
Did  you  not  hear  him  Brother  ? 

Lis.     I  am  not  minded. 

Pol.     Be  witness  Madam,  I  resign  my  heart 
It  never  was  anothers,  you  declare 
Too  great  a  satisfaction,  I  hope 
This  will  destroy  your  jealousie, 
Remember  now  your  danger. 

Dem.     I  despise  it, 
What  fate  dares  injure  me  ? 

Lis.     Yet  hear  me  Sir. 

Sop.     Forgive  me  Polidoray  you  are  happy, 
My  hopes  are  remov'd  farther,  I  had  thought 
Lisimachus  had  meant  you  for  his  Mistriss, 
'Tis  misery  to  feed,  and  not  know  where 
To  place  my  jealousie. 

Enter  Macarius. 

Mac.     Now  'tis  too  late, 
You  may  be  deafe,  until  the  Cannon  make, 
You  find  your  sense,  we  are  shut  up  now  by 
A  troop  of  Horse,  thank  your  self. 

Pol.     They  will 
Admit  conditions. 

Sop.     Anc1  allow  us  quarter.  [A  shout  within. 

Pol.     We  are  all  lost. 

Dem.     Be  comforted. 

Enter  Antigonus. 

Ant.     News  my  Lord  Cassander  sent  by  the  new  King. 
To  bear  us  company. 

Dem.     Not  as  prisoner  ? 

Ant.     It  does  appear  no  otherwise,  the  soldiers 
Declare  how  much  they  love  him,  by  their  noise 

301 


THE  CORONATION  ACT  v 

Of  scorn,  and  joy  to  see  him  so  rewarded. 

Dem.      It  cannot   be. 

Ant.     You'll  find  it  presently, 

He  curses  the  new   King,  talks  treason  'gainst  him 
As  nimble  as  he  were  in's  shirt,   he's  here. 

Enter  Cassander. 

Cas.      Oh   let  me  beg  untill  my  knees  take   root 
I*  th'  earth,  Sir,  can  you  pardon  me  ? 

Dem.     For  what  ? 

Cas.     For  Treason,  desperate,  most  malicious  Treason  : 
I   have  undone  you  Sir. 

Dem.     It  does  appear 
You  had  a  Will. 

Cas.     I'll  make  you  all  the  recompence  I  can, 
But  e'r  you  kill  me,  hear  me,  know  the  man, 
Whom  I  to  serve  my  unjust  ends,  advanc'd 
To  your  throne,  is  an  impostor,  a  mere  counterfeit, 
Eubulus*  Son.  [£[*//]  Anti. 

Dem.     It  is  not  then  our  brother  ? 

Cas.     An  insolent  usurper,  proud,  and  bloudy  ; 
Se/eucus,  is  no  leprosie  upon  me  ? 
There  is  not  punishment  enough  in  nature 
To  quit  my  horrid  aft,  I  have  not  in 
My  stock  of  blood,  to  satisfie  with  weeping, 
Nor  could  my  soul,  though  melted  to  a  flood 
Within  me,  gush  out  tears  to  wash  my  stain  off. 

Dem.     How?    an  Impostor,  what  will  become  on's  now? 
We  are  at  his  mercy. 

Cas.     Sir,  the  peoples  hearts 

Will  come  to  their  own  dwelling,  when  they  see 
I  dare  accuse  my  self,  and  suffer  for  it, 
Have  courage  then  young  King,  thy  fate  cannot 
Be  long  compell'd. 

Dem.     Rise,  our  misfortune 
Carries  this  good,  although  it  lose  our  hopes, 
It  makes  you  friend  with  virtue,  we'll  expe<St 
What  providence  will  do. 

Cas.     You  are  too  merciful. 

Lis.     Our  duties  shall  beg  heaven,  still  to  preserve  you. 

302 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Enter  Antigonus. 

Ant.     Our  enemy  desires  some  parley,  Sir. 

Lis.     'Tis  not  amiss  to  hear  their  proposition. 

Pol.     I'll  wait  upon  you. 

Dem.     Thou  art  my  Angel,  and  canst  best  instruct    me, 
Boldly  present  our  selves,  you'll  with   Cassander. 

Cas.     And  in  death  be  blest 
To  find  our  charity.  [Exit. 

Sop.     Lisimachus. 

Lis.     Madam. 

Sop.     They  will  not  miss  your  presence,  the  small  time 
Is  spent  in  asking  of  a  question. 

Lis.     I  wait  your  pleasure. 

Sop.     Sir,  I  have  a  suit  to  you. 

Lis.     To  me  ?    it  must  be  grante.d. 

Sop.     If  you  have 

Cancell'd  your  kind  opinion  of  me, 
Deny  me  not  to  know,  who  hath  succeeded 
Sophia  in  your  heart,   I  beg  the  name 
Of  your  new  Mistriss. 

Lis.     You  shall  know  her,  Madam, 
If  but  these  tumults  cease,  and  fate  allow  us 
To  see  the  Court  agen,  I  hope  you'll  bring 
No  mutiny  against  her,  but  this  is 
No  time  to  talk  of  Love,  let  me  attend  you. 

Sop.     I  must  expecl,  till  you  are  pleas'd  to  satisfie 
My  poor  request,  con  duel  me  at  your  pleasure.          [Exeunt. 

Enter  Leonatus,  Eubulus,  Bishop,  Lisander, 

and  Philocles. 

Leo.     They  are  too  slow,  dispatch  new  messengers, 
To  intreat  'em  fairly  hither,  I  am  extasi'd, 
Were  you  witness  for  me  too  ?    is  it  possible 
I  am  what  this  affirms,  true  Leonatus^ 
And  were  you  not  my  Father,  was  I  given 
In  trust  to  you  an  Infant  ? 

Eub.     'Tis  a  truth, 

Our  soul's  bound  to  acknowledge,  you  supply'd 
The  absence  and  opinion  of  my  Son. 

3°3 


THE  CORONATION  ACT  v 

Who  died,  but  to  make  you  my  greater  care 

I  know  not  of  Demetrius,   but  suppos'd 

Him  dead  indeed,  as  Ep'ire  thought  you  were, 

Your  Fathers  character  doth   want   no  testimony, 

Which  but  compar'd  with   what  concerns  Demetrius 

Will   prove   it  self  King   Theodosius  aft, 

Your  Royal  Father. 

Bish.     I  am  subscrib'd  to  both  his  Legacies 
By  oath  oblig'd   to  secresie,  until 
Thus  fairly  summon'd  to  reveal  the  trust. 

Eub.     Cassander  had  no  thought  you  would  prove  thus, 
To  whose  policie  I  gave  this  aim,  although 
He  wrought  you  up  to  serve  but  as  his  Engine 
To  batter  young  Demetrius,  for  it  was 
Your  Fathers  prudent  jealousie,  that  made  him 
Give  out  your  early  deaths,  as  if  his  soul 
Prophecy'd  his  own  first,  and  fear'd  to  leave 
Either  of  you,  to  the  unsafe  protection, 
Of  one,  whose  study  would  be  to  supplant 
Your  right,  and  make  himself  the   King  of  Epire. 

Bish.     Your  Sister,  fair  Sophia,  in  your  Fathers 
Life,  was  design'd  to  marry  with  Lisimachus 
That  guarded  her  ;    although  she  us'd  some  Art 
To  quit  her  pupillage,  and  being  absolute, 
Declar'd  love  to  Demetrius,  which  enforc'd 
Macarius  to  discover  first  your  brother. 

Leo.     No  more,  lest  you  destroy  agen  Leonatus 
With  wonder  of  his  fate,  are  they  not  come  yet  ? 
Something  it  was,  I  felt  within  my  envy 
Of  young  Demetrius^  fortune,  there  were  seeds 
Scattered  upon  my  heart,  that  made  it  swell 
With  thought  of  Empire,  Princes  I  see  cannot 
Be  totally  eclips'd,  but  wherefore  stays 
Demetrius  and  Sophia,  at  whose  names 
A  gentle  spirit  walk'd  upon  my  blood. 

Enter  Demetrius,  Polidora,  Sophia,  Macarius, 
Cassander,  Lisima. 


Eub.     They  are  here. 

Leo.     Then  thus  I  flie  into  their  bosoms, 


3°4 


Sc.  i  THE  CORONATION 

Nature  has  re&ifVd  in  me,  Demetrius, 
The  wandrings  of  ambition,  our  dear  Sister 
You  are  amaz'd,  I  did  expect  it,  read 
Assurance  there,  the  day  is  big  with  wonder. 

Mac.     What  means  all  this  ? 

Leo.     Lisimachus,  be  dear  to  us, 
Cassander,  you  are  welcome  too. 

Cas.     Not  I, 

I  do  not  look  for't,  all  this  sha'not  bribe 
My  conscience  to  your  faction,  and  make 
Me  false  agen,  Seleucus  is  no  son 
Of  Tkeodosius,  my  dear  Countrey-men 
Correct  your  erring  duties,  and  to  that, 
Your  lawful  King,  prostrate  your  selves,  Demetrius 
Doth  challenge  all  your  knees. 

Dem.     All  Love  and  Duty, 

Flow  from  me  to  my  Royal  King,  and  Brother 
I  am  confirmed. 

Cas.     You  are  t[o]o  credulous, 
What  can  betray  your  faith  so  much  ? 

Leo.     Sophia,  you  appear  sad,  as  if  your  Will 
Gave  no  consent  to  this  days  happiness. 

Sop.     No  joy  exceeds  Sophia's  for  your  self. 

Lis.     With  your  pardon,  Sir,  I  apprehend 
A  cause  that  makes  her  troubled,  she  desires 
To  know,  what  other  Mistriss,  since  her  late 
Unkindness  I  have  chosen  to  direft 
My  faith  and  service. 

Leo.     Another  Mistriss? 

Lis.     Yes,  Sir. 

Leo.     And  does  our  Sister  love  Lisimachus  ? 

Sop.     Here's  something  would  confess. 

Leo.     He  must  not  dare 
To  affront  Sophia. 

Cas.     How  my  shame  confounds  me, 
I  beg  your  justice,  without  pity  on 
My  age. 

Leo.     Your  pennance  shall  be,  to,  be  faithful 
To  our  state  hereafter, 

Omnes.     May  you  live  long  and  happy, 

B.-F.  vin.  u  305 


THE  CORONATION  ACT  v 

LeonatuS)   King  of  Epire. 

Leo.     But  where's  your  other  Mistriss  ? 

Lis.     Even   here,   Sir. 

Leo.     Our  Sister  ?    is  this  another  Mistriss,  Sir  ? 

[L]is.     It  holds 

To  prove  my  thoughts  were  so  when   she  began 
Her  sorrow   for  neglecting  me,  that  sweetness 
Deserv'd,  I  should   esteem  her  another  Mistriss, 
Then   when  she  cruelly  forsook  Lisimachus, 
Your  pardon   Madam,  and  receive  a  heart 
Proud   with  my  first  devotions  to  serve  you. 

Sop.     In  this  I  am  crown'd  agen,  now  mine  for  ever. 

Leo.     You  have  deceived  her  happily, 
Joy  to  you   both. 

Dem.     We  are  ripe  for  the  same  wishes, 
Po/idora's  part  of  me. 

Pol.     He  all  my  blessing. 

Leo.     Heaven  pour  full  joys  upon  you. 

Mac.     We  are  all  blest, 
There  wants  but  one  to  fill  your  arms. 

Leo.     My  Mistriss, 

And  Wife  shall   be  my  Countrey,  to  which  I 
Was  in  my  birth  contracted,  your  love  since 
Hath   plaid  the  Priest  to  perfect  what  was  ceremony 

Though  Kingdoms  by  just  Titles  prove  our  own, 

The  subjects  hearts  do  best  secure  a  Crown. 

[Exeunt  Omnes. 


EPILOGUE. 

THere  is  no  Coronation  to  day. 
Unless  your  gentle  votes  do  crown  our  Play, 
If  smiles  appear  within  each  Ladies  eye, 
Which  are  the  leading  Stars  in   this  fair 
Our  solemn  day  sets  glorious ,  for  then 
We  hope  by  their  s[oft]   influence^   the  men 

306 


THE  CORONATION 

Will  grace  what  they  first  shin'd  on,  makit  appear, 
(Both]  how  we  please,  and  bless  our  covetous  ear 
With  your  applause,  more  welcome  than  the  Bells 
Upon  a  triumph,  Bonfires,  or  what  else 
Can  speak  a  Coronation.     And  though  I 
Were  late,  deposed,  and  spoiTd  of  Majesty, 
By  the  kind  aid  of  your  hands,  Gentlemen, 
I  quickly  may  be  Crown  d  a    Queen  agen. 


u  2  3°7 


THE 


COXCOMB. 

A    Comedy. 


The   Persons  represented  in  the  Play. 


Ricardo,  a  young  Gentleman,  in  love 
*with  Viola. 

Antonio,  the  Coxcomb  Gentleman. 

Mercuric,  fellow-traveller  with  An- 
tonio. 

Uberto, 

Pedro, 

Silvio, 

Valeric,  a  Countrey  Gentleman. 

Curio,  Kinsman  to  Antonio. 

Justice,  a  shallow  one. 


three    merry    Gentlemen, 
friends  to  Ricardo. 


Andrugio,  Father  to  Viola. 
Alexander,     servant   to    Mercurie's 

Mother. 

Marke,  the  Justice's  Clerk. 
Rowland,  servant  to  Andrugio. 
Tinker. 
Constable. 
Watch. 
Drawer. 
Musicians. 


WOMEN. 


Viola,  Daughter  to  Andrugio. 
Maria,   Wife  to  Antonio. 
A     Countrey-woman,     Mother     to 
Mercuric. 


Nan  and  )  ...„        .  . 
•K/T  j  \Milk-maids. 

Madge.     J 

Dorothie,  the  Tinkers  Trull. 


The  Scene  England,   France. 

The  Principal  Aftors  were 

Nathan  Field,  Joseph  Taylor, 

Giles  Gary,  Emanuel  Read, 

Rich.  Allen,  Hugh  Atawell, 

Robert  Benfeild.  Will.  Barcksted. 


308 


ACT  i  THE   COXCOMB 

PROLOGUE. 

THis  Comedy  long  forgot,  by  some  thought  dead, 
By  us  preserved,  once  more  doth  raise  her  head. 
And  to  your  noble  censures  does  present, 
Her  outward  form,  and  inward  ornament. 
Nor  let  this  smell  of  arrogance,  since  'tis  known, 
The  makers  that  confest  it  for  their  own 
Were  this  way  skilful,  and  without  the  crime 
Of  flatteries  1  may  say  did  please  the  time  ; 
The  work  it  self  too,  when  it  first  came  forth, 
In  the  opinion  of  men  of  worth, 
Was   well  received  and  favoured,  though  some  rude 
And  harsh  among  th*  ignorant  multitude, 
(That  relish  gross  food,  better  than  a  dish, 
That's  cooked  with  care,  and  served  into  the  wish, 
Of  curious  pallats)   wanting  wit  and  strength, 
Truly  to  judge,  condemned  it  for  the  length, 
That  fault's  reformed,  and  now  'tis  to  be  try'd 
Before  such  ^Judges  ''twill  not  be  deny'd 
A  free  and  noble  hearing  :    nor  fear  I, 
But  'twill  deserve  to  have  free  liberty, 
And  give  you  cause  (and  with  content)   to  say, 
Their  care  was  good,  that  did  revive  this  Play. 


Attus  Primus.     Sccena  Prima. 

Enter  Richardo  and  Viola. 

Rich.    T  Et  us  make  use  of  this  stolen  privacy, 

J y    And  not  loose  time  in  protestation,  Mistriss, 

For  'twere  in  me  a  kind  of  breach  of  faith, 
To  say  again  I  love  you. 

Vio.     Sweet,  speak  softly 

For  though  the  venture  of  your  love  to  me, 
Meets  with  a  willing,  and  a  full  return  : 
Should  it  arrive  unto  my  Fathers  knowledge  ; 
This  were  our  last  discourse. 


3°9 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  i 

Rich.      How  shall   he  know  it  ? 

Vio.      His  watching  cares  are  such,   for  my  advancement, 
That  every  where  his  eye  is  fix'd   upon   me  : 
This  night  that  does  afford  us  some  small   freedom, 
At   the  request  and   much   intreaty  of 
The  Mistriss  of  the   House,  was  hardly  given  me  : 
For  I  am  never  suffered  to  stir  out, 
But  he  hath  spies  upon  me  :    yet  I  know  not 
You  have  so  won  upon   me,  that  could  I  think 
You  would  love  faithfully   (though   to  entertain 
Another  thought  of  you,  would   be  my   death) 
I  should  adventure  on  his  utmost  anger. 

Rich.     Why  do  you  think  I  can   be  false  ? 

yio.     No  faith, 
You  [h]ave  an  honest  face,  but  if  you  should — 

Rich.     Let  all  the  stor'd  vengeance  of  heaven's  justice — 

Vio.     No  more,  I  do  believe  you,  the  dance  ended, 
Which  this  free  womans  ghests  have  vow'd  to  have 
E'r  they  depart,  I  will  make  home,  and  store  me 
With  all  the  Jewels,  Chains,  and  Gold  are  trusted 
Unto  my  custody,  and  at  the  next  corner, 
To  my  Fathers  house,  before  one  at  the  farthest, 
Be  ready  to  receive  me. 

Rich.     I  desire 

No  bond  beyond  your  promise,  let's  go  in, 
To  talk  thus  much,  before  the  door,  may  breed 
Suspition. 

Enter  Mercury  and  Antonio  talking. 

Vio.     Here  are  company  too. 

Rich.     Away, 

Those  powers  that  prosper  true  and  honest  loves 
Will  bless  our  undertakings. 

Vio.     'Tis  my  wish,  Sir.  [Exit  Rich,  and  Viol. 

Mer.     Nay,  Sir,  excuse  me,  I  have  drawn  you  to 
Too  much  expence  already   in   my  travel  : 
And  you  have  been  too  forward  in  your  love  ; 
To  make  my  wants  your  own,  allow  me  manners 
Which  you  must  grant  I  want,  should  I  increase, 
The  bond  in  which  your  courtesies  have  ti'd  me  : 

310 


Sc.  i  THE   COXCOMB 

By  still  consuming  you,  give  me  leave 

To  take  mine  own  ways  now,  and  I  shall  often, 

With  willingness,  come  to  visit  you,  and  then  thank  you. 

Ant.     By  this  hand  I  could  be  angry,  what  do  you  think  me  ? 
Must  we  that  have  so  long  time  been  as  one 
Seen  Cities,  Countreys,   Kingdoms,  and  their  wonders  ; 
Been  bedfellows,  and  in  our  various  journey 
Mixt  all  our  observations,  part  (as  if 
We  were  two  Carriers  at  two  several  ways, 
And  as  the  fore-horse  guides,  cry  God  be  with  you) 
Without  or  compliment,  or  ceremony  ? 
In  Travellers,  that  know  transalpine  garbs, 
Though  our  designs  are  nee'r  so  serious,  friend, 
It  were  a  capital  crime,  it  must  not  be  : 
Nay,  what  is  more,  you  shall  not ;    you  e'r  long, 
Shall  see  my  house,  and   find  what  I  call  mine 
Is  wholly  at  your  service. 

Mer.     'Tis  this  tires  me, 
Sir,  I  were  easily  woo'd,  if  nothing  else 
But  my  Will  lay  in  the  choice  :    but  'tis  not  so, 
My  friends  and  kindred  that  have  part  of  me, 
And  such  on  whom  my  chiefest  hopes  depend, 
Justly  expecl  the  tender  of  my  love 
After  my  travel  :    then  mine  own  honesty 
Tells  me  'tis  poor,   having  indifferent  means 
To  keep  me  in  my  quality  and  rank, 
At  my  return,  to  tire  anothers  bounty, 
And  let  mine  own  grow  lusty,  pardon  me. 

Ant.     I  will  not,  cannot,   to  conclude,  I  dare  not  : 
Can  any  thing  conferr'd  upon  my  friend 
Be  burthensome  to  me  ?    for  this  excuse 
Had  I  no  reason  else,  you  should  not  leave  me, 
By  a  travellers  faith  you  should  not,  I  have  said, 
And  then  you  know  my  humor,  there's  no  contending. 

Mer.     Is  there  no  way  to  'scape  this  Inundation  ? 
I  shall  be  drown'd  with   folly  if  I  go  : 
And  after  nine  days,  men  may  take  me  up, 
With  my  gall  broken. 

Ant.     Are  you  yet  resolv'd  ? 

Mer.     Wou'd  you  would  spare   me. 

311 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  i 

Ant.     By  this  light  I  cannot 
By  all   that   may   be  sworn   by. 

Mer.     Patience  help  me, 

And   heaven  grant  his  folly  be   not  catching  : 
If  it  be,  the  Town's  undone,   I  now  would   give 
A   reasonable  sum  of  gold  to  any  Sheriff, 
That  would  but  lay  an   execution  on  me, 
And   free  me  from   his  company  ;    while  he  was  abroad, 
His  want  of  wit  and  language  kept  him  dumb  ? 
But  Balaam's  Asse  will  speak  now,   without  spurring. 

Ant.     Speak,   have  I  won  you  ? — 

Enter  Servant  and  Musician. 

Mer.     You  are  not  to  be  resisted. 

Ser.     Be  ready  I  intreat  you,  the  dance  done, 
Besides  a  liberal  reward   I   have, 
A  bottle  of  Sherry   in  my  power  shall  beget 
New  crotchets  in  your  heads. 

Musi.     Tush,  fear  not  us,  we'll  do  our  parts. 

Serv.     Go   in. 

Ant.     I  know  this  fellow. 
Belong  you  to  the  house  ? 

Serv.     I   serve  the   Mistriss. 

Ant.     Pretty,  and  short,  pray  you  Sir  then   inform   her, 
Two  Gentlemen  are  covetous  to  be  honor'd, 
With   her  fair  presence, 

Serv.     She  shall   know  so  much, 
This  is  a  merry  night  with  us,  and  forbid  not 
Welcome  to  any  that  looks  like  a  man  : 
I'll  guide  you  the  way. 

Ant.     Nay,  follow,  I  have  a  trick  in't.  [Exit. 

Enter  Uberto,  Silvio,   Richardo,  Maria,   Pedro, 
Portia,   Viola,  with  others. 

Uber.    Come,  where's  this  Masque  ?   fairest,  for  our  chear, 
Our  thanks  and  service,  may  you  long  survive, 
To  joy  in   many  of  these  nights. 

Mar.     I   thank  you. 

Uber.     We  must   have  Musick  too,  or  else  you  give  us, 
But  half  a  welcome. 

312 


Sc.  i  THE   COXCOMB 

Mar.     Pray  you  Sir,  excuse  me. 

Silv.      By  no  means,  Lady. 

Uber.     We'll  crown  our  liberal  feast, 
With  some  delightful  strain  fitting  your  love  : 
And  this  good  company. 

Mar.     Since  you  enforce  it, 
I  will  not  plead  the  excuse  of  want  of  skill 
Or  be,  or  nice,  or  curious,  every  year 
I  celebrate  my  marriage  night ;    and  will 
Till  I  see  my  absent  Husband. 

Uber.     'Tis  fit  freedom. 

Silv.     Richardo  thou  art  dull — 

Enter  Servant. 

Rich.     I  shall  be  lighter, 
When  I  have  had  a  heat. 

Mar.     Now  Sir,  the  news  ? 

Serv.     Mistriss,  there  are  two  Gentlemen. 

Mar.     Where  ? 

Serv.     Complimenting  who  should  first  enter. 

Mar.     What  are  they  ? 

Serv.     Heaven  knows,  but  for  their  strangeness,  have 
you  never  seen  a  Cat  wash  her  face  ? 

Uber.      Yes. 

Serv.     Just  such  a  stir  they  keep,  if  you  make  but  haste, 
You  may  see  'em  yet  before  they  enter. 

Enter  Antonia  and  Mercuric. 

Mer.     Let  'em  be  what  they  [will,]  we'll  [give]  them  fair 
Entertain,  and  gentle  welcome. 

Ant.     It  shall  be  so. 

Mer.      Then  let  it  be  your  pleasure. 

Ant.     Lets  stand  aside,  and  you  shall  see  us  have 
Fine  sport  anon. 

Mer.     A  fair  society,  do  you  know  these  Gentlewomen  ? 

Ant.     Yes. 

Mer.     What  are  they  ? 

Ant.    The  second  is  a  neighbors  Daughter,  her  name  is  Viola. 
There  is  my  kinsmans  wife,  Portia  her  name,  and  a 
Friend  too. 

3*3 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  i 

Mer.     Let  her — what's  she   that  leads  the  dance  ? 
i  Serv.     A  Gentlewoman. 
Mer.     I  see  that. 
I  Serv.      Indeed  ? 
Mer.      What  ? 

1  Serv.     A   Gentlewoman. 

Mer.     Udsfoot,  good  Sir,  what's  she  that  leads  the  dance  ? 

2  Serv.      My   Mistriss. 
Mer.     What  else  ? 

2  Serv.      My  Mistriss,  Sir. 

Mer.     Your  Mistriss  ?    a  pox  on  you, 

What  a  fry  of  fools  are  here  ?  I  see  'tis  treason  to  under- 
stand in  this  house:  if  nature  were  not  better  to  them,  than 
they  can  be  to  themselves,  they  would  scant  hit  their  mouths; 
my  Mistriss  ?  is  there  any  one  with  so  much  wit  in's  head, 
that  can  tell  me  at  the  first  fight,  what  Gentlewoman  that 
is  that  leads  the  dance  ? 

\_Ant.~\     'Tis  my  wife. 

Mer.      Hum. 

Ant.     How  dost  thou  like  her  ? 

Mer.     Well,  a  pretty  Gentlewoman. 

Ant.      Prethee  be  quiet. 

Mer.     I  would  I  could 
Let  never  any  hereafter  that's  a  man, 
That  has  affections  in  him,  and  free  passions, 
Receive  the  least  tye  from  such  a  fool  as  this  is, 
That  holds  so  sweet  a  wife,  'tis  lamentable  to  consider  truly 
What  right  he  robs  himself  of,  and  what  wrong 
He  doth  the  youth  of  such  a  Gentlewoman, 
That  knows  her  beauty,  is  no  longer  hers, 
Than  men  will  please  to  make  it  so,  and  use  it 
Neither  of  which  lies  freely   in  a  Husband, 
Oh  what  have  I  done,  what  have  I   done,  Coxcomb  ? 
If  I  had  never  seen,  or  never  tasted 
The  goodness  of  this  kix,  I   had  been  a  made  man, 
But  now  to  make  a  Cuckold  is  a  sin 
Against  all  forgiveness,  worse  than  a  murther  ; 
I   have  a  Wolf  by  the  ears,  and  am  bitten  both  ways. 

Ant.      How  now  friend,   what  are  you  thinking  of? 

Mer.     Nothing  concerning  you,  I  must  be  gone. 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 

Ant.     Pardon  me,  I'll  have  no  going,  Sir. 

Mer.     Then  good  Sir,  give  me  leave  to  go  to  bed, 
I  am  very  weary,  and  ill-temper'd. 

Ant.      You  shall  presently,  the  dance  is  done. 

I  Serv.     Mistriss,  these  are  the  Gentlemen. 

Mar.     My   Husband's  welcome  home,  dear  Sir.         (one, 

Mer.     She's  fair  still,  oh  that  I  were  a  knave,  or  durst  be 
For  thy  sake  coxcomb  ;  he  that  invented   honesty,  undid  me. 

Ant.     I  thought  you  had  not  known  me,  y'are  merry  'tis  well ; 
And   how  ist  with  these  worthy  Gentlemen  ?  (thought, 

Ub.  &  Si/.     We  are  glad  to  see  you  here  again. 

Ant.     Oh  Gent,  what  ha'  you  lost  ?  but  get  you  into  travels, 
There  you  may  learn,  I  cannot  say  what  hidden  virtues. 

Mer.     Hidden  from  you  I  am  sure, 
My  blood  boils  like  a  furnace, 
She's  a  fair  one. 

Ant.     Pray  entertain  this  Gent,  with  all  the  courtesie, 
Fitting  my  most  especial  friend. 

Mar.     What  this  poor  house  may  yield, 
To  make  you  welcome,  dear  Sir,  command 
Without  more  compliment. 

Mer.     I  thank  you  : 

She's  wise,  and  speaks  well  too,  oh  what  a  blessing 
Is  gone  by  me,  ne'er  to  be  recovered  ! 

Well,   'twas   an   old   shame   the   Devil    laid    up    for    me,   and 
now  has  hit  me  home ;  if  there  be  any  ways  to  be  dishonest, 

and  save  my  self  yet,  No,  it  must  not  be,  why  should 

I    be    a    fool    too Yet    those    eyes    would   tempt    another 

Adam,   how   they   call    to    me,    and    tell    me-     -S'foot,    they 
shall  not  tell  me  any  thing,  Sir,  will  you  walk  in  ? 

Ant.      How  is't,  Signior  ? 

Mer.     Crazie  a  little. 

Mar.     What  ail  you,  Sir  ? 
What's  in  my  power,  pray  make  use  of,  Sir.  (sure  ? 

Mer.     'Tis  that  must  do  me  good,  she  does  not  mock  me 
And't  please  you  nothing,  my  disease  is  only  weariness. 

Ub.     Come  Gentlemen,  we'll  not  keep  you  from  your  beds 
too  long. 

Rich.     I  ha'  some  business,  and  'tis  late,  and  you  far  from 
your  lodging. 

3'5 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  i 

Si!.     Well.  [Exit  manent,  Ant.  Mar.  and  Mer. 

Ant.  Come  my  dear  Mercury,  I'll  bring  you  to  your  cham- 
ber, and  then  I  am  for  you  Maria,  thou  art  a  new  wife  to 
me  now,  and  thou  shalt  find  it  e'r  I  sleep. 

Mer.  And  I,  an  old  ass  to  my  self,  mine  own  rod  whips 
me, — good  Sir,  no  more  of  this,  'tis  tedious,  you  are  the 
best  guide  in  your  own  house — go  Sir — 

[Exit  Ant.  and  Mer. 

This  fool  and  his  fair  Wife  have  made  me  frantick 
From  two  such  Physicks  for  the  soul,  deliver  me.         [Exit. 

Enter  Richardo,   Uberto,  Pedro,  and  Silvio. 

Ub.     Well  you  must  have  this  wench  then. 

Ric.     I  hope  so,  I  am  much  o'th'  bow-hand  else. 

Ped.  Wou'd  I  were  hang'd,  'tis  a  good  loving  little  fool, 
that  dares  venture  her  self  upon  a  coast  she  never  knew  yet, 
but  these  women,  when  they  are  once  thirteen,  god  speed 
the  plough. 

Si/.  Faith  they'll  venture  further  for  their  lading,  than 
a  Merchant,  and  through  as  many  storms,  but  they'll  be 
fraughted,  they  are  mad[e]  like  Carrecks,  only  strength  and 
storage. 

Ric.     Come,  come,  you  talk,  you  talk. 

Si/.     We  do  so,  but  tell  me  Richardo,  wot  thou  marry  her  ? 

Ric.     Marry  her  ?    why,  what  should  I   do  with  her  ? 

Ped.  Pox,  I  thought  we  should  have  [had]  all  shares  in 
her,  like  lawful  prize. 

Ric.  No  by  my  faith,  Sir,  you  shall  pardon  me,  I  lanch'd 
her  at  my  own  charge,  without  partners  and  so  I'll  keep  her. 

Ub.     What's  the  hour  ? 

Rich.     Twelve. 

Ub.     What  shall  we  do  the  while  ?   'tis  yet  scarce  eleven. 

Si/.     There's  no  standing  here,  is  not  this  the  place  ? 

Ric.     Yes. 

Ped.     And  to  go  back  unto  her  fathers  house,  may  breed 
suspition, 
Let's  slip  into  a  Tavern,  for  an  hour,  'tis  very  cold. 

Ub.  Content,  there  is  one  hard  by,  a  quart  of  burnt 
sack  will  recover  us,  I  am  as  cold  as  Christmas,  this  stealing 

316 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 

flesh  in  the  frosty  weather,  may  be  sweet  i'th'  eating,  but 
sure  the  Woodmen  have  no  great  catch  on't ;  ShalPs  go  ? 

Rich.  Thou  art  the  strangest  lover  of  a  Tavern,  What 
shall  we  do  there  now  ?  lose  the  hour  and  our  selves  too. 

Ub.  Lose  a  pudding;  What  do'st  thou  talk  of  the  hour; 
Will  one  quart  muzle  us?  have  we  not  ears  to  hear,  and 
tongues  to  ask  the  Drawers,  but  we  must  stand  here  like 
bawds  to  watch  the  minutes  ? 

Si/.  Prethee  content  thy  self,  we  shall  scout  here,  as 
though  we  went  a  haying,  and  have  some  mangey  prentice, 
that  cannot  sleep  for  scratching,  over-hear  us ;  Come,  Will 
you  go  Sirs  ?  when  your  love  fury  is  a  little  frozen,  you'll 
come  to  us. 

Ric.     Will  you  drink  but  one  quart  then  ? 

Fed.     No  more  i'faith. 

5/7.    Content. 

Ric.    Why  then,  have  with  you,  but  lets  be  very  watchful. 

Ub.  As  watchful  as  the  Belman,  come,  I'll  lead,  because 
I  hate  good  manners,  they  are  too  tedious.  [Exeunt. 

Enter  Viola  with  a  Key,  and  a   little  Casket. 

The  night  is  terrible,  and  I  enclos'd 

With  that  my  vertue  and  my  self  hate  most, 

Darkness  ;    yet  must  I  fear  that  which  I  wish, 

Some  company,  and  every  step  I  take 

Sounds  louder  in   my  fearful  ears  to  night 

Than  ever  did,  the  shrill  and  sacred  bell 

That  rang  me  to  my  prayers  ;    the  house  will  rise 

When  I  unlock  the  dore,  were  it  by  day 

I  am  bold  enough,  but  then  a  thousand  eyes 

Warne  me  from  going,  might  not  [God]  have  made 

A  time  for  envious  prying  folk  to  sleep, 

Whilst  lovers  met,  and  yet  the  Sun  have  shone  ? 

Yet  I  was  bold  enough,  to  steal  this  key 

Out  of  my  fathers  Chamber,  and   dare  yet 

Venture  upon  mine  enemy,  the  night, 

Arm'd  only  with  my  love,  to  meet  my  friend 

Alas  how  valiant,  and  how  fraid  at  once 

Love  makes  a  Virgin  !    I  will  throw  this  key 

Back  through  a  window,  I  had  wealth  enough 

3'7 


THE   COXCOMB  ACT  i 

In  Jewels  with   me,  if  I  hold  his  love 

I  steal   e'm   for  ;    farewell   my  place  of  birth, 

I  never  make  account  to  look  on  thee  again  ; 

And  if  there  be,  as   I   have  heard   men  say, 

These  houshold  gods,  I  do  beseech  them  look 

To  this  my  charge,   bless  it  from  theeves  and  fire, 

And  keep,  till   happily  my  love  I  win, 

Me  from  thy  door,  and  hold  my  Father  in.  [Exit. 

Enter  Richardo,   Pedro,  Uberto,  Silvio,  and  Drawer 

with  a   Candle. 

Ric.     No  more  for  Gods  sake,  how  is  the  night  boy  ? 

Draw.     Faith  Sir,  'tis  very  late. 

Ub.  Faith,  Sir,  you  lie,  is  this  your  jack  i'th'  clock-house? 
will  you  strike,  Sir?  gi's  some  more  sack,  you  varlet. 

Ric.     Nay,  if  you  love  me,  good    Uberto  goe, 
I  am  monstrous  hot  with  Wine. 

Ub.  Quench  it  again  with  love,  Gentlemen,  I  will  drink 
one  health  more,  and  then  if  my  legs  say  me  not  shamefully 
nay,  I  will  go  with  you,  give  me  a  singular  quart. 

Draw.     Of  what  Wine  Sir  ? 

Uber.  Of  Sack,  you  that  speak  confusion  at  the  bar,  of 
Sack,  I  say,  and  every  one  his  quart,  what  a  Devil  lets  be 
merry. 

Draw.     You  shall,  Sir.  [Exit. 

Fed.     We  will,  Sir,  and  a  dryed   tongue. 

5/7.  And  an  Olive,  boy,  and  a  whole  bunch  of  fidlers,  my 
head  swims  plaguely,  'uds  pretious  I  shall  be  clawd. 

Enter  Drawer  with  four  quarts  of  wine. 

Ric.  Pray  go,  I  can  drink  no  more,  think  on  your  pro- 
mise, 'tis  midnight  Gentlemen. 

Ub.  O  that  it  were  dum  midnight  now,  not  a  word 
more,  every  man  on's  knees,  and  betake  himself  to  his  saint, 
here's  to  your  wench,  seignior,  all  this,  and  then  away. 

Rich.     I  cannot  drink  it. 

Ped.     'Tis  a  toy,  a  toy,  away  wo't. 

Uber.  Now  dare  I  speak  any  thing,  to  any  body  living, 
come,  Where's  the  fault  ?  off  with  it. 

Ric.     I    have    broke    my   wind,  Call    you   this   Sack  ?  — I 

318 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 

wonder  who  made  it  ?   he  was  a  sure  workman,  for  'tis  plaguy 
strong  work,  Is  it  gone  round  ? 

Ub.  'Tis  at  the  last,  out  of  my  way,  good  boy,  Is  the 
Moon  up  yet  ? 

Draw.     Yes,  Sir. 

Ub.     Where  is  she  boy  ? 

Draw.     There,   Sir. 

Ub.     We  shall  have  rain  and  thunder,  boy. 

Draw.     When  Sir  ? 

Ub.     I  cannot  tell,  but  sure  we  shall  boy. 

Draw.     The  Gentleman  is  Wine-wise. 

Uber.      Drawer  ? 

Draw.      Here,  Sir. 

Ub.     Can  you  procure  ? 

Draw.     What  Sir? 

Uber.    A  Whore,  or  two  or  three,  as  need  shall  serve,  boy? 

Si/.     I,  a  good  Whore  were  worth  money,  boy. 

Draw.     I  protest  Sir,  we  are  all  together  unprovided. 

Ric.  The  mor's  the  pitty,  boy,  Can  you  not  'vize  us  where 
my  Child  ? 

[Draw.     Neither,  in   troth  sir.] 

Fed.  Why  where  were  you  brought  up,  boy  ?  no  inckling 
of  a  Whore  ?  no  aym  my  boy  ? 

Uber.  It  cannot  sink  in  my  head  now,  that  thou  shouldst 
marry,  Why  shouldst  thou  marry,  tell  me  ? 

Rich.     I  marry  ?  I'll  be  hang'd  first :  some  more  wine  boy. 

5/7.  Is  she  not  a  Whore  translated  ?  and  she  be,  lets  re- 
pair to  her. 

Ric.  I  cannot  tell,  she  may  be  an  offender  ;  but  signior 
Silvio,  I  shall  scratch  your  head,  indeed  I  shall. 

5/7.  Judge  me,  I  do  but  jest  with  thee,  what  an  she  were 
inverted  with  her  heeles  upward,  like  a  traitor's  Coat  ?  what 
care  I. 

Ub.     I,  hang  her,  Shall  we  fall  out  for  her  ? 

Rich.  I  am  a  little  angry,  but  these  wenches,  Did  you 
not  talke  of  wenches  ? 

5/7.     Boy,  lend  me  your  Candle. 

Draw.     Why  Sir  ? 

5/7.     To  set  fire  to  your  rotten  seeling,  you'll  keep  no 
Whores,   Rogue,  no  good  members. 

3*9 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  i 

Draw.     Whores,  Sir. 

Silv.  I,  Whores  Sir,  Do  you  think  we  come  to  lye  -with 
your  hogsheads  ? 

Rich.  I  must  beat  the  watch,  I  have  long'd  for't  any 
time  this  three  weeks. 

Silv.  Wee'll  beat  the  Town  too,  and  thou  wilt,  we  are 
proof  boy  ;  Shall  [wee]  kill  any  body  ? 

Rich.     No,  but  wee'll  hurt  'em  dangerously. 

Uber.  Silv.  Now  must  I  kill  one,  I  cannot  avoid  it,  boy, 
easily  afore  there  with  your  candle  ;  Where's  your  Mistriss  ? 

Draw.     A  bed,  Sir. 

5/7.     With  whom? 

Draw.     With  my  Master. 

Uber.  You  lye  Boy,  shee's  better  brought  up  than  to  lye 
with  her  husband,  Has  he  not  cast  his  head  yet  ?  next  year  he 
will  be  a  velvet-headed  Cuckold.  [Exeunt. 

Draw.     You  are  a  merry  Gentleman,  there  Sir,  take  hold. 

Enter  Viola. 

Viola.     This  is  the  place,  I  have  out-told  the  Clock, 
For  haste,  he  is  not  here.     Richardo  ?    no  ; 
Now  every  power  that  loves  and   is  belov'd  : 
Keep  me  from  shame  to  night,  for  all  you  know 
Each  thought  of  mine  is  innocent,  and  pure, 
As  flesh  and  blood  can  hold  :    I  cannot  back  ; 
I  threw  the  Key  within,  and  ere  I  raise 
My  Father  up,  to  see  his  daughters  shame, 
I'll  set  me  down,  and  tell  the  Northern   Wind, 
That  it  is  gentler  than  the  curling  West ; 
If  it  will  blow  me  dead,   but  he  will  come  ; 
I'faith  'tis  cold  ;    if  he  deceive  me  thus, 
A  woman  will  not  easily  trust  a  Man.      Hark,  What's  that  ? 

Sil.  within.  Th'art  over  long  at  thy  pot,  torn,  torn,  thou 
art  over  long  at  the  pot  torn. 

Viol.     Bless  me  !    Whose  that  ? 

Pedro  within.     Whoo  ! 

Uber.  within.     There  Boyes. 

Viol.     Darkness  be  thou  my  cover,  I  must  fly, 
To  thee  I  haste  for  help — 

320 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 

Enter  Richardo,  Pedro,  Uberto,  Drawer  with  a  Torch. 

Viol.     They  have  a  light, 
Wind,  if  thou  lov'st  a  Virgin,  blow  it  out, 
And  I  will  never  shut  a  window  more, 
To  keep  thee  from  me. 
Rich.     Boy  ? 
Draw.     Sir. 
Rich.     Why  Boy? 
Draw.     What  say  you,  Sir  ? 
Rich.     Why  Boy  ?     Art  thou  drunk  Boy  ? 
Draw.     What  would  you,  Sir  ? 
Rich.     Why  very  good,  Where  are  we  ? 
Uber.     I,  that's  the  point. 

Draw.    Why  Sir,  you  will  be  at  your  Lodging  presently. 
Rich.     I'll  go  to  no  lodging  Boy. 
Draw.     Whither  will  you  go  then,  Sir  ? 
Rich.     I'll  go  no  farther. 

Draw.     For  Gods  sake,  Sir,  do  not  stay  here  all  night. 
Rich.    No  more  I  will  not,  Boy,  lay  me  down,  and  rowle 
me  to  a  Whore. 

Uber.     And  me. 
Ped.     There  spoke  an — 

Silvio.     Then  set  your  foot  to  my  foot,  and  up  tailes  all. 
Viola.     That  is  Richardo^  what  a  noise  they  make  ! 
'Tis  ill  done  on  'em  :    here,  Sirs,  Richardo  ? 
Rich.     What's  that  Boy  ? 

Draw.     'Tis  a  Wench,  Sir,  pray  Gentlemen  come  away. 
Viol.     O  my  dear  love  !     How  doest  thou  ? 
Rich.     [My]  sweet  heart?    even  as  thou  seest. 
Ped.     Where's  thy  Wench  ? 
Uber.     Where's  this  bed  worme  ? 
Viol.     Speak  softly  for  the  love  of  heaven. 
Draw.     Mistriss,   get  you   gone,   and   do   not  entice  the 
Gentlemen,  now  you  see  they'r  drunk,  or  I'll  call  the  Watch, 
and  lay  you  fast  enough. 

Vio.     Alas,  What  are  you  ?    or,  What  do  you  mean  ? 
Sweet  love,  Where's  the  place  ? 

Ric.     Marry  sweet  love,  e'en  here,  lye  down,  I'll  feese  [you]. 
Vio.     Good  God  !    What  mean  you  ? 

B.-F.  vm.  x  321 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  i 

Fed.     I'll  have  the  Wench. 

Uber.      If  you  can  get  her. 

5/7.     No,  I'll  lye  with  the  Wench  to  night,  and  she  shall  be 
yours  to  morrow. 

Fed.     Let  go  the  Wench. 

5/7.     Let  you  go  the  Wench. 

Viol.      O   Gentlemen,  as  you  had   mothers  ! 

Uber.     They  had  no  mothers;   they  are  the  Sons  of  bitches. 

Ric.     Let  that  be  maintain'd. 

5/7.     Marry  then. 

Viol.     Oh  bless  me  heaven  ! 

Uber.     How  many  is  there  on's  ? 

Ric.     About  five. 

Uber.     Why  then  lets  fight  three  to  three. 

5/7.      Content.  [Draw  and  fall  down. 

Draw.     The  Watch  !  the  watch  !  the  watch  !  Where  are 
you  ?  [Exit. 

Ric.     Where  are  these  Cowards  ? 

Fed.     There's  the  W[h]ore. 

Viol.     I  never  saw  a  drunken  man  before, 
But  these  I  think  are  so. 

5/7.     Oh  ! 

Fed.     I   mist  you  narrowly  there. 

Viol.     My  state  is  such,  I  know  not  how  to  think, 
A   prayer  fit  for  me,  only  I  could  move, 
That  never  Maiden  more  might  be  in  love.  [Exit. 

Enter  Drawer,  Constable  and  Watch. 

Watch.     Where  are  they,  Boy  ? 

Draw.     Make  no  such  haste,  Sir,  they  are  no  runners. 

Ub.     I  am   hurt,   but   that's  all   one,   I   shall   light    upon 
some  of  ye. 
Pedro,  thou  art  a  tall  Gentleman,  let  me  kiss  thee. 

Watch.     My  friend. 

Uber.     Your  friend  ?    you  lie. 

Ric.     Stand  further  off,  the  watch,  you  are  full  of  fleas. 

Con.     Gentlemen,  either  be  quiet,  or  we  must  make  you 
quiet. 

Rich.     Nay,  good  Mr.  Constable,  be  not  so  Rigorous. 

Uber.     Mr.  Constable,  lend  me  thy  hand  of  Justice. 

322 


ACT  ii  THE    COXCOMB 

Const.     That  I  will  Sir.  (so  blind 

Uber.  Fy  Mr.  Constable,  What  golls  you  have  !  is  Justice 
[She]  cannot  see  to  wash  your  hands  ?  I  cry  you  Mercy,  Sir  ; 
Your  gloves  are  on. 

Draw.     Now  you  are  up,  Sir,  Will  you  go  to  bed  ? 

Fed.     I'll  truckle  here,  Boy,  give  me  another  pillow. 

Draw.     Will  you  stand  up,  and  let  me  lay  it  on  then  ? 

Fed.     Yes.  (be  going  Mr.  Constable. 

Draw.     There    hold   him   two   of  ye,    now  they  are  up, 

Rich.     And  this  way,  and  that  way,  torn. 

Uber.     And  here  away,  and  there  away,  torn. 

Silv.     This  is  the  right  way,  the  others  the  wrong. 

Fed.     Th'  others  the  wrong. 

All.     Thou  art  over-long  at  the  pot,  torn,  torn. 

Rich.     Lead  valiantly,  sweet  Constable,  whoop !  ha  Boyes. 

Const.     This  Wine  hunts  in  their  heads. 

Rich.     Give  me  the  bill,  for  I'll  be  the  Sergeant. 

Const.     Look  to  him,  Sirs. 

Rich.  Keep  your  Ranks,  you  Rascalls,  keep  your  Ranks. 

[Exeunt. 

Aftus  Secundus.     Scan  a   Prima. 

Enter  Mercury. 
Mer.      T    Cannot  sleep  for  thinking  of  this  Asses  Wife, 


C: 

n 


'11  be  gon  presently,  there's  no  staying  here, 
with  this  Devil  about  me ;  hoe,  this  is  the  house  of  sleep, 
hoe  !  again  there,  'sfoot,  the  darkness,  and  this  love  together, 
will  make  me  lunatick  ;  ho  ! 

Enter  a  Servingman  above  unready. 

Ser.     Who  calls  there  ? 

Mer.     Pray  take  the  pains  to  rise  and  light  a  candle. 

Ser.     Presently. 

Mer.  Was  ever  man  but  I  in  such  a  stocks?  well,  this  shall 
be  a  warning  to  me,  and  a  fair  one  too,  how  I  betray  my  self 
to  such  a  Dunce,  by  way  of  benefit. 

Enter  Servingman. 

Ser.     Did  you  call  ? 

X2  323 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  n 

Mer.  Yes,  pray  do  me  the  kindness,  Sir,  to  let  me  out,  and 
not  [to]  enquire  why,  for  I  must  needs  be  gone. 

Ser.     Not  to  night,  I   hope,   Sir. 

Mer.  Good  Sir  to  night,  I  would  not  have  troubled  you 
else,  pray  let  it  be  so. 

Ser.     Alas,  Sir,  my  Master  will  be  offended. 

Mer.     That  I  have  business  ?    no  I  warrant  ye. 

Ser.     Good  Sir  take  your  rest. 

Mer.     Pray  my  good  friend  let  me  appoint  my  own  rest. 

Ser.     Yes,  Sir. 

Mer.     Then  shew  me  the  way  out,  I'll  consider  you. 

Ser.     Good  Lord,  Sir. 

Mer.  If  I  had  not  an  excellent  temper'd  patience,  now 
should  I  break  this  fellows  head,  and  make  him  understand 
'twere  necessary  ;  the  onely  plague  of  this  house  is  the  un- 
handsome love  of  servants,  that  ne'er  do  their  duty  in  the 
right  place,  but  when  they  muster  before  dinner,  and  sweep 
the  Table  with  a  wodden  dagger,  and  then  they  are  trouble- 
some too,  to  all  mens  shoulders,  the  Woodcocks  Hesht  agen, 
now  I  shall  have  a  new  stir. 

Enter  Antonio. 

Ant.  Why  how  now  friend  ?  What  do  you  up  so  late  ? 
are  you  well  ?  Do  you  want  any  thing  ?  pray  speak. 

Mer.     Onely  the  cause  I  rise  for. 

Ant.  What  knaves  are  these  ?  What  do  you  want  ?  why 
Sirrah  ? 

Mer.  Nothing  i'th'  World,  but  the  keyes  to  let  me  out 
of  dores  ;  I  must  be  gon,  be  not  against  it,  for  you  cannot 
stay  me. 

Ant.     Be  gon  at  this  time  ?   that  were  a  merry  jest. 

Mer.  If  there  be  any  mirth  in't,  make  you  use  on't,  but 
I  must  go. 

Ant.     Why  for  loves  sake  ? 

Mer.  'Twill  benefit  your  understanding  nothing  to  know 
the  cause,  pray  go  to  bed,  I'll  trouble  your  Man  only. 

Ant.  Nay,  Sir,  you  have  rais'd  more,  that  has  reason  to 
curse  you,  and  you  knew  all,  my  Wifes  up,  and  coming 
down  too. 


Sc.  i  THE   COXCOMB 

Mer.  Alas,  it  will  be  a  trouble,  pray  go  up  to  her,  and 
let  me  disturbe  no  more,  'tis  unmannerly. 

Enter  Wife  as  out  of  her  \b~\ed. 

Ant.  Shee's  here  already  ;  sweet  heart :  How  say  you  by 
this  Gentleman  ?  he  would  away  at  midnight. 

Wife.     That  I  am  sure  he  will  not. 

Mer.     Indeed  I  must. 

Mar.  Good  Sir  let  not  your  homely  entertainment  press 
you  to  leave  your  bed  at  midnight ;  if  you  want,  what  my 
house  or  our  town  may  afford  you,  make  it  your  own  fault 
if  you  call  not  for  it ;  pray  go  to  bed  again  ;  let  me  com- 
pel you,  I  am  sure  you  have  no  power  to  deny  a  Woman  ; 
the  ayr  is  piercing,  and  to  a  body  beaten  with  long  travel, 
'twill  prove  an  ill  Physitian. 

Mer.  If  she  speak  longer  I  shall  be  a  knave,  as  rank  as 
ever  sweat  for't ;  Sir,  if  you  will  send  your  Wife  up  pre- 
sently, I  will  either  stay  with  you,  d'ye  mark  me,  or  deliver 
you,  so  just  a  cause,  that  you  your  self,  shall  thrust  me  out 
of  dores,  both  suddenly,  and  willingly. 

Ant.  I  would  fain  hear  that  'faith,  pray  thee  go  up  sweet 
heart,  I  have  half  perswaded  him,  besides,  he  hath  some  private 
business  with  me. 

Mar.  Good  night,  Sir,  and  what  content  you  would  have, 
I  wish  with  you.  \Exit* 

Mer.  Could  any  man  that  had  a  back  ask  more  !  O  me  ! 
O  me  ! 

Ant.     Now  deal  direftly  with  me  :  Why  should  you  go  ? 

Mer.  If  you  be  wise  do  not  enquire  the  cause,  'twill  trou- 
ble you  : 

Ant.     Why  ?    prithee  why  ? 

Mer.  'Faith  I  would  not  have  you  know  it,  let  me  go, 
'twill  be  far  better  for  you. 

Ant.     Who's  that,  that  knocks  there  ?  i'st  not  at  the  street 

door  ? 

Ser.     Yes,  Sir. 

Ant.     Who's  there,  cannot  you  speak  ? 

Within  Vio.  A  poor  distressed  Maid,  for  gods  sake  let 
me  in. 

325 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  n 

Mer.  Let  her  in  and  me  out  together,  'tis  but  one  labor, 
'tis  pity  she  should  stand  i'th'  street,  it  seems  she  knows  you. 

Ant.     There  she  shall  stand  for  me,  you  are  ignorant;   this 
is  a  common  custorne  of  the  Rogues  that  lie  about  the  loose 
parts  of  the  City. 
Mer.     As  how  ? 

Ant.  To  knock  at  doors  in  dead  time  of  night,  and  use 
some  feigned  voice  to  raise  compassion,  and  when  the  doors 
are  open,  in  they  rush,  and  cut  the  throats  of  all,  and  take 
the  booty,  we  cannot  be  too  careful. 

Within  Vi.    As  ever  you  had  pity  let  me  in,  I  am  undone  else. 
Ant.      Who  are  you  ? 

Vio.  My  name  is  Viola,  a  Gentlewoman,  that  ill  chance 
hath  distressed,  you  know  my  Father. 

Mer.  Alas  of  god  we'll  let  her  in,  'tis  one  of  the  Gen- 
tlewomen were  here  i'th'  evening,  I  know  her  by  her  name, 
(poor  soul)  shee's  cold  I  warrant  her,  let  her  have  my  warme 
Bed,  and  I'll  take  her  fortune  ;  come,  pray  come. 

Ant.  It  is  not  Viola,  that's  certain,  she  went  home  to  her 
Fathers,  I  am  sure. 

Vio.     Will  not  you  be  so  good  to  let  me  in  ? 
Ant.     I'll  be  so  good  to  have  you  whipt  away  if  you  stay  a 
little  longer  :  Shee's  gone  I  warrant  her,  now  let  me  know  your 
cause,  for  I  will  hear  it,  and  not  repent  the  knowing. 

Mer.     Since  you  are  so  importunate,  I'll  tell  you,  I  love 
your  Wife  extreamly. 
Ant.     Very  well. 

Mer.     And  so  well  that  I  dare  not  stay. 
Ant.     Why  ? 

Mer.  For  wronging  you,  I  know  I  am  flesh  and  blood, 
and  you  have  done  me  friendships  infinite  and  often,  that 
must  require  me  honest,  and  a  true  Man,  and  I  will  be  so, 
or  I'll  break  my  heart. 

Ant.     Why,  you  may  stay  for  all  this,  methinks. 
Mer.     No,  though  I  wood  be  good,  I  am  no  saint,  nor 
is  it  safe  to  try  me,  I  deal  plainly. 

Ant.     Come,  I  dare  try  you,  do  the  best  you  can. 
Mer.    You  shall  not,  when  I  am  right  agen,  I'll  come  and 
see  you,  till  when,  I'll  use  all  Countryes,  and  all  means,  but  I 
will  lose  this  folly,  'tis  a  Divel. 

326 


Sc.  i  THE   COXCOMB 

Ant.     Is  there  no  way  to  stay  you  ? 
Mer.     No,  unless  you  will  have  me  such  a  villain  to  you, 
as  all  men  shall  spit  at  me. 

Ant.      Do's  she  know  you  love  her  ? 

Mer.  No,  I  hope  not,  that  were  recompence  fit  for  a 
Rogue  to  render  her. 

Ant.  If  ever  any  had  a  faithful  friend,  I  am  that  Man, 
and  I  may  glory  in't,  this  is  he,  that  ipse,  he  that  passes  all 
Christendome  for  goodness,  he  shall  not  over  goe  me  in  his 
friendship,  'twere  recreant  and  base,  and  I'll  be  hang'd  first, 
I  am  resolv'd,  go  thy  wayes,  a  Wife  [shall]  never  part  us  :  I 
have  consider'd,  and  I  find  her  nothing  to  such  a  friend  as 
thou  art ;  I'll  speak  a  bold  world,  take  your  time  and  woe 
her,  you  have  overcome  me  clearly,  and  do  what's  fitting 
with  her,  you  conceive  me,  I  am  glad  at  heart  you  love  her  : 
by  this  light,  ne're  stare  upon  me,  for  I  will  not  flye  from 
it,  if  you  had  spoken  sooner,  sure  you  had  been  serv'd  ;  Sir, 
you  are  not  every  Man,  now  to  your  taske,  I  give  you  free 
leave,  and  the  sin  is  mine  if  there  be  any  in  it. 

Mer.  He  will  be  hang'd  before  he  makes  this  good,  he 
cannot  be  so  innocent  a  Coxcombe,  he  can  tell  ten  sure,  if 
I  had  never  known  you  as  I  have  done,  I  might  be  one,  as 
others  perhaps  sooner,  but  now  'tis  impossible,  there's  too 
much  good  between  us. 

Ant.     Well,  thou  art  e'en  the  best  man 1  can  say  no 

more,  I  am,  so  over-joy'd,  you   must  stay  this  night,  and  in 
the  morning  go  as  early  as  you  please,  I  have  a  toy  for  you. 
Mer.     I  thought  this  pill  would  make  you  sick. 
Ant.     But  where  you  mean  to  be  I  must  have  notice, 
And  it  must  be  hard  by  too,  do  you  mark  me  ? 
Mer.     Why,  What's  the  matter  ? 
Ant.     There  is  a  thing  in  hand. 
Mer.     Why  ?    What  thing  ? 

Ant.  A  sound  one,  if  it  take  right,  and  you  be  not  peevish. 
We  two  will  be — you  would  little  think  it ;  as  famous  for  our 
friendship — 

Mer.      How  ? 

Ant.  If  [God]  please,  as  ever  Damon  was,  and  Pytheas-, 
or  Pylades,  and  Orestes,  or  any  two  that  ever  were  :  do  you 
conceive  me  yet  ? 

327 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  n 

Mer.      No,  by  my  troth,  Sir ;   he  will  not  help  me  up  sure. 

Ant.  You  shall  anon,  and  for  our  names,  I  think  they  shall 
live  after  us,  and  be  remember'd  while  there  is  a  story  ;  or  [I] 
lose  my  aime. 

Mer.      What  a  vengeance  ailes  he  ?    How   do  you  ? 

Ant.  Yes  faith,  we  two  will  be  such  friends,  as  the  world 
shall  ring  of. 

Mer.     And  why   is  all  this  ? 

Ant.     You  shall  enjoy  my  wife. 

Mer.     Away,  away. 

Ant.  The  wonder  must  begin,  so  I  have  cast  it,  'twill  be 
scurvy  else,  you  shall  not  stir  a  foot  in't,  pray  be  quiet  till 
I  have  made  it  perfect. 

Mer.  What  shall  a  Man  do  with  this  wretched  fellow  ? 
there  is  no  mercy  to  be  used  towards  him,  he  is  not  capable 
of  any  pitty,  he  will  in  spight  of  course  be  a  Cuckold,  And 
who  can  help  it  ?  must  it  begin  so  needs  Sir  ? — think  agen. 

Ant.  Yes  marry  must  it,  and  I  my  self  will  woe  this 
woman  for  you,  Do  you  perceive  it  now  ?  ha  ? 

Mer.  Yes,  now  I  have  a  little  sight  ith'  matter  ;  O  that 
thy  head  should  be  so  monstrous,  that  all  thy  Servants  hats  may 
hang  upon't  !  but  do  you  meane  to  do  this  ? 

Ant.  Yes  certain,  I  will  woe  her,  and  for  you,  strive  not 
against  it,  'tis  the  overthrow  of  the  best  plot  that  ever  was 
then. 

Mer.  Nay,  I'll  assure  you,  Sir,  I'll  do  no  harm,  you  have 
too  much  about  you  of  your  own. 

Ant.     Have  you  thought  of  a  place  yet  ? 

Mer.     A  place  ? 

Ant.  I  a  place  where  you  will  bide,  prethee  no  more  of 
this  modesty,  'tis  foolish,  and  we  were  not  determin'd  to  be 
absolute  friends  indeed,  'twere  tolerable. 

Mer.     I  have  thought,  and  you  shall  hear  from  me. 

Ant.  Why,  this  will  gain  me  everlasting  glory  ;  I  have 
the  better  of  him,  that's  my  comfort,  good  night.  [Exit. 

Mer.  Good  night,  well  go  thy  wayes,  thou  art  the  tydiest 
wittall  this  day  I  think  above  ground,  and  yet  thy  end  for 
all  this  must  be  mottly.  [Exit. 


328 


Sc.  i  THE   COXCOMB 

Enter  a  Tinker  with  a  Cord,  and  Dorothy. 

Tink.  'Tis  b[i]tter  cold;  a  plague  upon  these  Rogues,  how 
wary  they  are  grown  !  not  a  door  open  now,  but  double 
barr'd  ;  not  a  Window,  but  up  with  a  case  of  wood  like  a 
spice  box,  and  their  locks  unpickable,  the  very  Smiths  that 
were  half  venture[r]s,  drink  penitent, 

single  Ale,  this  is  the  Iron  age,  the  Ballad  sings  of;  well,  I 
shall  meet  with  some  of  our  loose  Linnen  yet,  good  fellows 
must  not  starve  ;  here's  he  shall  shew  God  a  mighties  dog 
bolts,  if  this  hold. 

Dorothy.  Faith  thou  art  but  too  merciful,  that's  thy 
fault,  thou  art  as  sweet  a  Thief,  that  sin  excepted,  as  ever 
suffered,  that's  a  proud  word,  and  I'll  maintain  it. 

Tinck.  Come,  prethee  let's  shogg  off,  and  browze  an 
hour  or  two,  there's  Ale  will  make  a  Cat  speak,  at  the 
harrow,  we  shall  get  nothing  now,  without  we  batter,  'tis 
grown  too  near  morning,  the  Rogues  sleep  sober,  and  are 
watchful. 

Dorit.  We  want  a  Boy  extreamly  for  this  function,  kept 
under  for  a  year,  with  milk,  and  knot-grass ;  in  my  time  I 
have  seen  a  boy  do  wonders ;  Robbin  the  red  Tinker  had  a 
Boy,  Rest  his  Soul,  he  suffer'd  this  time  4  years,  for  two 
Spoons,  and  a  Pewter  Candlestick,  that  sweet  Man  had  a 
Boy,  as  I  am  Curstend  Whore,  would  have  run  through  a 
Cat  hole,  he  would  have  boulted  such  a  piece  of  Linen  in 
an  evening — 

Tinck.  Well,  we  will  have  a  Boy,  prethee  lets  go,  I  am 
vengeance  cold  I  tell  thee. 

Dorothy.  I'll  be  hang'd  before  I  stir  without  some  pur- 
chase, by  these  ten  bones,  I'll  turn  she-ape,  and  untile  a 
house,  but  I'll  have  it,  it  may  be  I  have  a  humor  to  be 
hang'd,  I  cannot  tell. 

Enter  Viola. 

Tinck.  Peace,  you  flead  Whore,  thou  hast  a  mouth  like 
a  Bloodhound,  here  comes  a  night-shade. 

Dorit.  A  Gentlewoman  Whore,  by  this  darkness  I'll  case 
her  to  the  skin. 

Tinck.     Peace,  I  say. 

329 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  n 

I'iola.     What   fear  have  I  endur'd   this  dismal   night  ! 
And   what  disgrace,   if  I   were  seen  and   known  ! 

O  ' 

In   which   this  darkness  onely   is  my   friend, 

That  onely  has  undone  me  ;    a  thousand  curses 

Light  on   my  easie,   foolish,  childish   love, 

That  durst  so  lightly  lay  a  confidence 

Upon  a  Man,  so  many  being  false  ; 

My    weariness,   and   weeping,    makes   me   sleepy,    I    must    lie 

down. 

Tlnck.  What's  this  ?  a  Prayer,  or  a  Homily,  or  a  Ballad 
of  good  councel  ?  she  has  a  Gown,  I  am  sure. 

Dor.     Knock  out  her  brains,  and  then  shee'll  nee'r  bite. 

Tinck.     Yes,  I  will  knock  her,  but  not  yet,  you  ?  woman  ? 

Viol.     For  Gods  sake  what  are  you  ? 

Tinck.  One  of  the  groomes  of  your  wardrobe,  come,  un- 
case, uncase  ;  byr  Lady  a  good  Kersey. 

Vio.      Pray  do  not  hurt  me,  Sir. 

Dor.  Let's  have  no  pitty,  for  if  you  do,  here's  that  shall 
cut  your  whistle. 

VioL  Alas,  what  would  you  have  ?  I  am  as  miserable 
as  you  can  make  me  any  way. 

Dor.     That  shall  be  try'd. 

Vio.      Here,  take  my  Gown,  if  that  will  do  you  pleasure. 

Tink.  Yes  marry  will  it,  look  in  the  Pockets  Do//y  there 
may  be  birds. 

Dor.  They  are  flown,  a  pox  go  with  them,  I'll  have  this 
Hat,  and  this  Ruffe  too,  I  like  it,  now  will  I  flourish  like  a 
Lady,  brave,  I  faith  boy. 

Via.      Y'are  so  gentle  people  to  my  seeming, 
That  by  my  truth  I  could  live  with  you. 

Tin.  Could  you  so  ?  a  pretty  young  round  wench,  well 
bloudded,  I  am  for  her,  Theeves. 

Dor.  But  by  this  I  am  not,  coole  your  Codpiece,  Rogue, 
or  I'll  clap  a  spell  upon't,  shall  take  your  edge  off  with  a 
very  vengeance. 

Tin.  Peace,  horse-flesh,  peace,  I'll  cast  off  my  Amazon, 
she  has  walk'd  too  long,  and  is  indeed  notorious,  shee'll  fight 
and  scould,  and  drink  like  one  of  the  worthies. 

Dort.  Uds,  pretious  you  young  contagious  Whore,  must 
you  be  ticing  ?  and,  Is  your  flesh  so  wranck,  Sir,  that  two  may 

33° 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 

live  upon't  ?  I  am  glad  to  hear  your  Cortalls  grown  so  lusty  ; 
he  was  dry  founder'd  t'other  day,  wehee  my  pamper'd  Jade 
of  Asia. 

Vio.  Good  Woman  do  not  hurt  me,  I  am  sorry  that  I 
have  given  any  cause  of  anger. 

Dor.  Either  bind  her  quickly,  and  come  away,  or  by  this 
steel  I'll  [tell],  though  I  truss  for  company ;  now  could 
I  eate  her  broyl'd,  or  any  way,  without  Vinegar,  I  must 
have  her  Nose. 

Vio.     By  any  thing  you  love  best,  good  Sir,  good  Woman. 

Tin.     Why  her  Nose,   Dorothy  ? 

Dor.  If  I  have  it  not,  and  presently  [and]  warm,  I  lose 
that  I  go  withal. 

Tin.  Wood  the  Devil  had  that  thou  goest  withall,  and 
thee  together,  for  sure  he  got  thy  whelps  if  thou  hast  any, 
shees  thy  deere  dad,  Whore  !  put  up  your  cutpurse ;  an  I 
take  my  switch  up,  'twill  be  a  black  time  with  you  else, 
sheth  your  bung  Whore. 

Dor,  Will  you  bind  her  ?  we  shall  stand  here  prating, 
and  be  hang'd  both. 

Tin.     Come,  I  must  bind  you,  not  a  word,  no  crying. 

Flo.     Do  what  you  will,  indeed  I  will   not  cry. 

Tin.  Hurt  her  not,  if  thou  dost,  by  Ale  and  Beer,  I'll 
clout  thy  old  bald  brain  pan,  with  a  piece  of  Brass,  you 
Bitch  incarnate.  [Exeunt  Tinker  and  Dorothy. 

Viola.     O   [God],  to  what  am  I  reserv'd,  that  knew  not 
Through  all  my  childish  hours  and  a6tions, 
More  sin,  than  poor  imagination, 
And  too  much  loving  of  a  faithless  Man  ? 
For  which  I'm  paid,  and  so,  that  not  the  day 
That  now  is  rising  to  protect  the  harmless, 
And  give  the  innocent  a  sanftuary 
From  theeves  and  spoilers,  can  deliver  me 
From  shame,  at  least  suspition — 

Enter  Valerio. 

Pal  Sirrah,  lead  down  the  horses  easily,  I'll  walke  a 
foot  till  I  be  down  the  hill,  'tis  very  early,  I  shall  reach 
home  betimes.  How  now,  whose  there  ? 

Flo.     Night,  that  was  ever  friend  to  Lovers,  yet 

331 


THE   COXCOMB  ACT  n 

Has  rais'd  some  weary  Soul,  that  hates  his  bed, 
To  come  and  see  me   blush,  and  then   laugh  at   me. 

Vol.      H'ad  a  rude   heart  that  did   this. 

Vio.     Gentle  Sir, 

If  you  have  that  which   honest  men  call  pitty, 
And  be  as  far  from  evil  as  you  shew  ; 
Help  a  poor  Maid,  that  this  night  by  bad  fortune 
Has  been  thus  us'd   by  Robbers. 

VaL  A  pox  upon  his  heart  that  would  not  help  thee,  this 
Thief  was  half  a  Lawyer  by  his  bands,  How  long  have  you 
been  tyed  here  ? 

Viol.  Alas,  this  hour,  and  with  cold  and  fear  am  almost 
perisht. 

VaL  Where  were  the  watch  the  while  ?  good  sober  Gent. 
they  were  like  careful  members  of  the  City,  drawing  in 
diligent  Ale,  and  singing  catches,  while  Mr.  Constable  con- 
triv'd  the  Tosts  :  these  fellows  would  be  more  severely 
punisht  than  wandring  Gipsies,  that  every  statute  whips  ;  for 
if  they  had  every  one  two  eyes  a  piece  more,  three  pots 
would  put  them  out. 

Viol.    I  cannot  tell,  I  found  no  Christian  to  give  me  succor. 

VaL  When  they  take  a  Thief,  I'll  take  Ostend  agen  ;  the 
whorsons  drink  Opium  in  their  Ale,  and  then  they  sleep  like 
tops  ;  as  for  their  bills,  they  only  serve  to  reach  down  Bacon 
to  make  Rashers  on  ;  now  let  me  know  whom  I  have  done 
this  courtesie  too,  that  I  may  thank  my  early  rising  for  it. 

Viol.     Sir,  All  I  am,  you  see. 

VaL  You  have  a  name  I'm  sure,  and  a  kindred,  a  Father, 
friend,  or  something  that  must  own  you  ;  shee's  a  handsome 
young  Wench  ;  What  Rogues  were  these  to  Rob  her  ? 

Vio.     Sir,  you  see  all  I  dare  reveale, 
And  as  you  are  a  Gentleman  press  me  no  further  ; 
For  there  begins  a  grief,  whose  bitterness 
Will  break  a  stronger  heart  than  I  have  in  me, 
And  'twill  but  make  you  heavy  with  the  hearing, 
For  your  own  goodness  sake  desire  it  not. 

VaL  If  you  would  not  have  me  enquire  that,  How  do 
you  live  then  ? 

VioL     How  I  have  liv'd,  is  still  one  question, 
Which  must  not  be  resolv'd — 

332 


Sc.  i  THE   COXCOMB 

How  I  desire  to  live,  is  in  your  liking, 
So  worthy  an  opinion  I  have  of  you. 

Val.  Is  in  my  liking  ?  How  I  pray  thee  ?  tell  me,  i'faith 
I'll  do  you  any  good  lies  in  my  power  ;  she  has  an  eye  would 
raise  a  bedrid  man  ;  come,  leave  your  fear,  and  tell  me,  that's 
a  good  Wench. 

Viol.     Sir,  I  would  serve — 

Val.  Who  would'st  thou  serve  ?  do  not  weep  and  tell 
me. 

Viol.  Faith,  Sir,  even  some  good  woman,  and  such  a  wife 
if  you  be  married,  I  do  imagine  yours. 

Val.  Alas  !  thou  art  young  and  tender,  let  me  see  thy 
hand,  this  was  ne'er  made  to  wash,  or  wind  up  water,  beat 
cloaths,  or  rub  a  floor,  by  this  light,  for  one  use  that  shall 
be  nameless,  'tis  the  best  wanton  hand  that  e're  I  lookt  on. 

Vio.     Dare  you  accept  me,  Sir,  my  heart  is  honest, 
Among  your  vertuous  charitable  deeds, 
This  will  not  be  the  least. 

Val.     Thou  canst  in  a  Chamber  ? 

Vio.     In  a  Chamber,  Sir  ? 

Val.     I  mean  wait  there  upon  a  Gentlewoman, 
How  quick  she  is,  I  like  that  mainly  too  ; 
I'll  have  her,  though  I  keep  her  with  main  strength    like   a 
besieged  Town,  for  I  know  I  shall  have  the  Enemy  afore  me 
within  a  week. 

Viol.     Sir,  I  can  sow  too,  and  make  pretty  laces, 
Dress  a  head  handsome,  teach  young  Gentlewomen, 
For  in  all  these  I  have  a  little  knowledge. 

Val.  'Tis  well,  no  doubt  I  shall  encrease  that  knowledge  ; 
I  like  her  better  still,  how  she  provokes  me  ;  pritty  young 
Maid,  you  shall  serve  a  good  Gentlewoman,  though  I  say't, 
that  will  not  be  unwilling  you  should  please  me,  nor  I  for- 
getful if  you  do. 

Viol.     I  am  the  happier. 

Val.  My  man  shall  make  some  shift  to  carry  you  behind 
him,  Can  you  ride  well  ? 

Viola.     But  I'll  hold  fast  for  catching  of  a  fall. 

Val.  That's  the  next  way  to  pull  another  on  you,  I'll 
work  her  as  I  go,  I  know  shee's  wax,  now,  now,  at  this  time 
could  I  beget  a  Worthy  on  this  Wench. 

333 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  n 

Viol.  Sir,  for  this  Gentleness,  may  Heaven  requite  you 
tenfold. 

VaL  'Tis  a  good  Wench,  however  others  use  thee,  be 

sure  I'll  be  a  loving  Master  to  thee,  come.  [Exeunt. 

Enter  Antonio   like  an   Irish   Footman^   with  a   Letter. 

Ant.  I  hope  I  am  wild  enough,  for  being  known,  I  have 
writ  a  Letter  here,  and  in  it  have  abus'd  my  self  most  bitterly, 
yet  all  my  fear  is  not  enough,  for  that  must  do  it,  that  must 
lay  it  on,  I'll  win  her  out  i'th'  flint,  'twill  be  more  famous, 
now  for  my  language. 

Enter  Servingman. 

Ser.     Now,  Sir,  Who  would  you  speak  with  ? 

Ant.     Where  be  thy  Mastres  Man  ?    I  would  speak  with 
her, 
I  have  a  Letter. 

Ser.      Cannot  I  deliver  it  ? 

Ant.     No,  by  my  trot,  and  fait,  can'st  thou  not  Man. 

Ser.  Well,  Sir,  I'll  call  her  to  you,  pray  shake  your  ears 
without  a  little.  [Exit  Servingman. 

Ant.  Cran  a  Cree  do  it  quickly  ;  this  rebbel  tonge  sticks 
in  my  teeth  worse  than  a  tough  Hen,  sure  it  was  ne'er  known 
at  Babel,  for  they  sould  no  Apples,  and  this  was  made  for 
certain  at  the  first  planting  of  Orchards,  'tis  so  crabbed. 

Enter  Wife,   and  Servingman. 

Mar.     What's  he  wood  speak  with  me  ? 

Ser.     A  kill  kenny  ring,  there  he  stands  Madam. 

Mar.     What  would  you  have  with  me,  friend  ? 

Ant.     He  has  a  Letter  for  other  Women,  Wilt  thou  read  it. 

Mar.     From  whence  ? 

Ant.     De  Crosse  creest  from  my  Master. 

Mar.     Who  is  your  Master  ? 

Ant.     I  pray  do  you  look. 

Mar.     Do  you  know  this  fellow  ? 

Ser.  No  Maddam,  not  I  ;  more  than  an  Irish  Footman, 
stand  further  friend,  I  do  not  like  your  roperunners,  What 
stallion  Rogues  are  these,  to  weare  such  dowsetts,  the  very 
Cotton  may  commit  adultery. 

334 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 

Mar.  I  cannot  find  whose  hand  this  should  be,  I'll  read, 
To  the  beauteous  wife  of  Don  Antonio^  sure  this  is  some  blind 
scribe — well  now,  What  follows? 

Ant.  Pray  God  it  take,  I  have  given  her  that,  will  stir 
her  conscience,  how  it  works  with  her  ;  hope,  if  it  be  thy 
will,  let  the  flesh  have  it. 

Mar.  This  is  the  most  abhor'd,  intollerable  knavery, 
that  ever  slave  entertain'd,  sure  there  is  more  than  thine 
own  head  in  this  villany,  it  goes  like  praclic'd  mischiefe ; 
disabled  in  his  body  ?  O  good  God,  as  I  live  he  lies  fear- 
fully, and  basely,  ha  ?  I  should  know  that  Jewel,  'tis  my 
husband,  come  hither  shat,  Are  you  an  Irish  Man  ? 

Ant.     Sweete  Woman  a  Cree  I  am  an  Irish  man. 

Mar.  Now  I  know  it  perfectly;  is  this  your  trick,  Sir? 
I'll  trick  you  for  it  ;  How  long  have  you  serv'd  this  Gentle- 
man. 

Ant.  Please  thee  a  little  day,  O  my  Mac  dermond  put  me 
to  my  Mastree,  'tis  don  I  know. 

Mar.  By  my  faith  he  speaks  as  well  as  if  he  had  been 
lousy  for  the  language  a  year  or  two  ;  well,  Sir,  you  had  been 
better  have  kept  your  own  shape  as  I  will  use  ycu,  What 
have  I  done  that  should  deserve  this  tryal  ?  I  never  made 
him  Cuckold,  to  my  knowledge,  Sirrah  come  hither. 

Ant.  Now  will  she  send  some  Jewel,  or  some  Letter,  I 
know  her  mind  as  well ;  I  shall  be  famous. 

Mar.     Take  this  Irish  bawde  here. 

Ant.     How  ? 

Mar.  And  kick  him  till  his  breeches  and  breech  be  of 
one  colour,  a  bright  blew  both. 

Ant.  I  may  be  well  swing'd  thus,  for  I  dare  not  reveale 
my  self,  I  hope  she  does  not  mean  it,  O  hone,  O  hone,  O 
St.  Patricke,  O  a  Cree,  O  sweet  Woman. 

Mar.  No,  turn  him,  and  kick  him  o'  t'other  side,  that's 
well. 

Ant.  O  good  waiting  Man,  I  beseech  thee  good  waiting 
man,  a  pox  fyre  your  Legs. 

Mar.  You  Rogue,  you  enemy  to  all,  but  little  breeches, 
How  dar'st  thou  come  to  me  with  such  a  Letter  ? 

Ant.  Prethee  pitty  the  poor  Irishman,  all  this  makes  for 
me,  if  I  win  her  yet,  I  am  still  more  glorious. 

335 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  n 

Mar.  Now  could  I  weep  at  what  I  have  done,  but  I'll 
harden  my  heart  agen,  go  shut  him  up,  'till  my  husband 
comes  home,  yet  thus  much  ere  ye  go,  sirrah  thach'd  head, 
Would'st  not  thou  be  whipt,  and  think  it  Justice  ?  well 
Aquavits  Barrel,  I  will  bounce  you. 

Ant.     I   pray  do,  I  beseech   you  be  not  angry. 

Mar.  O  you  hobby  headed  Rascal,  I'll  have  you  flead, 
and  trossers  made  of  thy  skin  to  tumble  in,  go  a  way  with 
him,  let  him  see  no  sun,  till  my  husband  come  home,  Sir,  I 
shall  meet  with  you  for  your  knavery,  I  fear  it  not. 

Ant.      Wilt  thou  not  let  me  go  ?      I   do  not  like  this. 

Mar.     Away  with   him. 

Servingman.  Come,  I'll  lead  you  in  by  your  Jack  a  lent 
hair,  go  quietly,  or  I'll  make  your  crupper  crack. 

Mar.  And  do  you  hear  me,  Sirrah  ?  and  when  you  have 
done,  make  my  Coach  ready. 

Serving.     Yes  forsooth.        [Exit  Servingman  with  Antonio. 

Mar.  Lock  him  up  safe  enough,  I'll  to  this  Gentleman, 
I  know  the  reason  of  all  this  business,  for  I  do  suspecl  it, 
If  he  have  this  plot,  I'll  ring  him  such  a  peal,  shall  make 
his  eares  deaf  for  a  month  at  least.  [Exit. 

Enter  Richardo. 

Ric.     Am  I  not  mad  ?     Can  this  weak  tempered  head, 
That  will  be  mad  with  drink,  endure  the  wrong 
That  I  have  done  a  Virgin,  and  my  Love  ? 
Be  mad,  for  so  thou  ought'st,  or  I  will  beate 
The  walls  and  trees,  down  with  thee,  and  will  let 
Either  thy  memory  out,  or  madness  in  ; 
But  sure  I  never  lov'd  fair   Viola, 
I  never  lov'd  my  Father,  nor  my  Mother, 
Or  any  thing  but  drink  ;    had  I   had  love  ; 
Nay,  had  I  known  so  much  charity, 
As  would  have  sav'd  an   Infant  from  the  fire, 
I  had  been  naked,  raving  in  the  street  ; 
With  halfe  a  face,  gashing  my  self  with  knives, 
Two  houres  ere  this  time. 

Enter  Pedro,  Silvio,   Uberto. 
Ped.     Good  morrow  Sir. 
336 


Sc.  i  THE   COXCOMB 

Rich.    Good  morrow  Gentlemen,  shall  we  go  drink  agen? 
I  have  my  wits. 

Fed.     So  have  I,  but  they  are  unsetled  ones,  would  I  had 
some  porrige. 

Rich.     The  Tavern  boy  was  here  this  morning  with  me 
And  told  me,  that  there  was  a  Gentlewoman, 
Which  he  took  for  a  Whore,  that  hung  on  me  : 
For  whom  we  quarrel'd,  and  I  know  not  what. 

Ped.     I  faith  nor  I. 

Ube.     I  have  a  glimmering  of  some  such  thing. 

Rich.     Was  it  you,  Silvio, 
That  made  me  drink  so  much  ?    'twas  you  or  Pedro. 

Ped.     I  know  not  who. 

Si/.     We  [were]  all  apt  enough. 

Rich.     But  I   will  lay  the  fault  on  none  but  me, 
That  I  would  be  so  entreated,  come  Silvio, 
Shall  we  go  drink  agen,  come  Gentlemen, 
Why  do  you  stay,  let's  never  leave  off  now, 
Whil'st  we  have  Wine,  and  Throats,  I'll  practise  it, 
Till  I  have  made  it  my   best  quality  ; 
For  what  is  best  for  me  to  do  but  that  ? 
For  [Gods]  sake  come  and  drink  ;    when  I  am  nam'd, 
Men  shall  make  answer,   Which  Richardo  mean  you  ? 
The  excellent  drinker?     I  will  have  it  so, 
Will  you  go  drink  ? 

Silv.     We  drunk  too  much  too  lately. 

Rich.     Why  there  is  then  the  less  behind  to  drink, 
Let's  end  it  all,  dispatch  that,  wee'l  send  abroad, 
And  purchase  all  the  Wine  the  world  can  yield, 
And  then  drink  it  off,  then  take  the  fruits  o'th'  earth, 
Distil  the  Juice  from  them,  and  drink  that  off; 
Wee'l  catch  the  rain  before  it  fall  to  ground, 
And  drink  off  that  that  never  more  may  grow  ; 
Wee'l  set  our  mouths  to  Springs,  and  drink  them  off, 
And  all  this  while  wee'l  never  think  of  those 
That  love  us  best,  more  than  we  did  last  night. 
We  will  not  give  unto  the  poor  a  drop 
Of  all  this  drink,  but  when  we  see  them  weep, 
Wee'l  run  to  them,  and  drink  their  tears  off  too, 
Wee'l  never  leave  whilst  there  is  heat  or  moisture, 

B.-F.  vin.  Y  337 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  n 

In  this  large  globe,  but  suck  it  cold  and   dry, 
Till  we  have  made  it  Elemental  earth, 
Merely  by  drinking. 

Fed.     Is't   flattery  to  tell  you,  you  are  mad  ? 

Rich.     If  it  be  false, 

There's  no  such  way  to  bind  me  to  a  Man  ; 
He  that  will  have  me,  lay  my  goods  and  lands, 
My  life  down  for  him,  need  no  more,  but  say, 
Richardo  thou  art  mad,  and  then  all  these 
Are  at  his  service,  then  he  pleases  me, 
And  makes  me  think  that  I  had  vertue   in  me, 
That  I  had  love,  and  tenderness  of  heart, 
That  though  I  have  committed  such  a  fault, 
As  never  creature  did,  yet  running  mad, 
As  honest  men  should  do  for  such  a  crime, 
I  have  exprest  some  worth,  though  it  be  late  : 
But  I  alas  have  none  of  these  in  me, 
But  keep  my  wits  still  like  a  frozen  Man, 
That  had  no  fire  within  him. 

Sil.  Nay,  good  Richardo  leave  this  wild  talk,  and  send  a 
letter  to  her,  I'll  deliver  it. 

Rich.     'Tis  to  no  purpose  ;    perhaps  she's  lost  last  night, 
Or  she  got  home  agen,  she's  now  so  striclly 
Look'd  to,  the  wind  can  scarce  come  to  her,  or  admit 
She  were  her  self;    if  she  would  hear  from  me, 
From  me  unworthy,  that  have  us'd  her  thus. 
She  were  so  foolish,  that  she  were  no  more 
To  be  belov'd. 

Enter  Andrugio  and  Servant  with  a  Night-gown. 

Ser.    Sir,  we  have  found  this  night-gown  she  took  with  her. 

[An.     Where  ?] 

Rich.     Where  ?    where  ?   speak  quickly. 

Ser.  Searching  in  the  Suburbs,  we  found  a  Tinker  and 
his  Whore  that  had  it  in  a  Tap-house,  whom  we  appre- 
hended, and  they  confest  they  stole  it  from  her. 

Rich.     And  murthered  her  ? 

Sil.     What  aile  you  man  ? 

Rich.     Why  all  this  doth  not  make  me  mad. 

Sil.  It  does,  you  would  not  offer  this  else,  good  Pedro 
look  to  his  sword. 

338 


ACT  m  THE    COXCOMB 

Ser.  They  do  deny  the  killing  of  her,  but  swore  they  left 
her  tyed  to  a  Tree,  in  the  fields,  next  those  Suburbs  that  are 
without  our  Ladies  gate,  near  day,  and  by  the  Rode,  so  that 
some  passinger  must  needs  unty  her  quickly. 

And.  The  will  of  Heaven  be  done  !  Sir,  I  will  only  en- 
treat you  this,  that  as  you  were  the  greatest  occasion  of  her 
loss,  that  you  will  be  pleased  to  urge  your  friends,  and  be 
your  self  earnest  in  the  search  of  her  ;  if  she  be  found,  she 
is  yours,  if  she  please,  I  my  self  only,  see  these  people  better 
examined,  and  after  follow  some  way  in  search,  God  keep  you 
Gentlemen.  [Exit. 

Si/.     Alas  good  man  ! 

Ric.     What  think  you  now  of  me,  I  think  this  lump 
Is  nothing  but  a  piece  of  fleagme  congeal'd 
Without  a  soul,  for  where  there's  so  much  spirit 
As  would  but  warm  a  flea,  those  faults  of  mine 
Would  make  it  glow,  and  flame  in  this  dull  heart, 
And  run  like  molten  gold  through  every  sin, 
Till  it  could  burst  these  walls,  and  fly  away. 
Shall  I  intreat  you  all  to  take  your  horses, 
And  search  this  innocent  ? 

Fed.     With  all  our  hearts. 

Ric.     Do  not  divide  your  selves  till  you  come  there, 
Where  they  say  she  was  ty'd,  I'll  follow  too, 
But  never  to  return  till  she  be  found. 
Give  me  my  sword  good  Pedro^  I  will  do 
No  harm,  believe  me,  with  it,  I  am  now 
Farr  better  tempered  ;    if  I  were  not  so, 
I  have  enow  besides,  God  keep  you  all, 
And  send  us  good  success.  [Exeunt. 

Aftus  T'ertius.     Scana  Prima. 

Enter  Mercury,  and  Servant. 

Mer.      \\J  Ho  is  it  ?    can  you  tell  ? 

V  V        Ser.     By  my  troth,  Sir,  I  know  not,  but 
'tis  a  Gentlewoman. 

Mer.  A  Gentleman,  I'll  lay  my  life,  you  puppy,  h'as  sent 
his  Wife  to  me  :  if  he  have,  fling  up  the  bed. 

Ser.     Here  she  is,  Sir. 

Y2  339 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  in 


Enter  Wife  with  a  Letter. 

Wife.     I  am  glad  I  found  you  Sir,  there,  take  your  Letter, 
and    keep    it    till    you    have  another  friend  to  wrong,  'tis  too 
malicious   false   to   make   me   sin,  you   have   provoked   me  to 
be  that  I  love  not,  a  talker,  and  you  shall  hear  me. 
Why  should  you  dare  to  imagine  me 
So  light  a  huswife,  that  from  four  hours  knowledge 
You  might  presume  to  offer  to  my  credit 
This  rude  and  ruffian  tryal,  I  am  sure 
I  never  courted  you,  nor  gave  you  tokens, 
That  might  concern  assurance,  you  are  a  fool. 

Mer.     I  cannot  blame  you  now,  I  see  this  letter, 
Though  you  be  angry,  yet  with  me  you  must  not, 
Unless  you'l  make  me  guilty  of  a  wrong, 
My  worst  affections  hate — 

Wife.     Did  not  you  send  it  ? 

Mer.  No,  upon  my  faith,  which  is  more,  I  understand 
it  not  \  the  hand  is  as  far  from  my  knowledge,  as  the  malice. 

Wife.     This  is  strange. 

Mer.  It  is  so,  and  had  been  stranger,  and  indeed  more 
hateful, 

Had  I,  that  have  received  such  courtesies,  and  owe  so  many 
Thanks,  done  this  base  office. 

Wife.     Your  name  is  at  it. 

Mer.  Yes,  but  not  my  nature,  and  I  shall  hate  my  name 
worse  than  the  manner,  for  this  base  broking  ;  you  are  wise 
and  vertuous,  remove  this  fault  from  me ;  for  on  the  love 
I  bear  to  truth  and  goodness,  this  Letter  dare  not  name  me 
for  the  author. 

Wife.  Now  I  perceive  my  husbands  knavery,  if  [my]  man 
can  but  find  where  he  has  been,  I  will  goe  with  this  Gentle- 
man whatsoever  comes  on't  :  and  as  I  mean  to  carry  it,  both 
he  and  all  the  World  shall  think  it  fit,  and  thank  me  for  it. 

Mer.  I  must  confess  I  loved  you,  at  first,  however  this 
made  me  leave  your  house  unmannerly,  that  might  provoke 
me  to  do  something  ill,  both  to  your  honor  and  my  faith, 
and  not  to  write  this  Letter,  which  I  hold  so  truly  wicked, 
that  I  will  not  think  on't. 

340 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 

Wife.  I  do  believe  you,  and  since  I  see  you  are  free,  my 
words  were  not  meant  to  you,  but  this  is  not  the  half  of 
my  affliction. 

Mer.  'Tis  pitty  you  should  know  more  vexation  ;  may  I 
enquire  ? 

Wife.     Faith,  Sir,  I   fear  I  have  lost  my  husband. 

Mer.  Your  husband  ?  it  cannot  be  :  I  pitty  her,  how  she's 
vext  ! 


Enter  Servant. 

Wife.  How  now  ?  What  news  ?  nay  speak,  for  we  must 
know. 

Ser.  Faith  I  have  found  at  length,  by  chance,  where  he 
has  been. 

Wife.     Where  ? 

Ser.  In  a  blind  out-house  in  the  Suburbs,  pray  God  all  be 
well  with  him. 

Wife.     Why  ? 

Serv.  There  are  his  cloaths,  but,  What's  become  of  him, 
I  cannot  yet  enquire. 

Wife.  I  am  glad  of  this  ;  sure  they  have  murther'd  him, 
What  shall  I  do  ? 

Mer.  Be  not  so  grieved,  before  you  know  the  truth,  you 
have  time  enough  to  weep,  this  is  the  sodain'st  mischief; 
Did  you  not  bring  an  Officer  to  search  there,  where  you  say 
you  found  his  cloaths. 

Ser.  Yes,  and  we  searcht  it,  and  charg'd  the  fellow  with 
him  :  but  he,  like  a  Rogue,  stubborn  Rogue,  made  answer,  he 
knew  not  where  he  was  ;  he  had  been  there,  but  where  he  was 
now,  he  could  not  tell :  I  tell  you  true,  I  fear  him. 

Wife.     Are  all  my  hopes  and  longings  to  enjoy  him, 
After  this   3  years  travel,  come  to  this  ? 

Ser.  It  is  the  rankest  house  in  all  the  City,  the  most 
cursed  roguy  Bawdy-house.  Hell  fire  it. 

Mer.  This  is  the  worst  I  heard  yet;  Will  you  go  home  ? 
I'll  bear  you  company,  and  give  you  the  best  help  I  may  : 
this  being  here  will  wrong  you. 

Wife.     As  you  are  a  Gentleman,  and  as  you  lov'd   your 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  in 

dead    friend,    let    me    not   go   home,    that    will    but    heap    one 
sorrow  on  another. 

Mer.  Why  propose  any  thing  and  I'll  perform't  ;  I  am 
at  my  wits  end  too. 

Ser.     So  am  I,   O   my  dear  Master  ! 

Mer.     Peace  you  great   fool. 

Wife.  Then  good  Sir  carry  me  to  some  retir'd  place,  far 
from  the  sight  of  this  unhappy  City,  whether  you  will  in- 
deed, so  it  be  far  enough. 

Mer.  If  I  might  Councel  you,  I  think  'twere  better  to 
go  home, 

And  try  what  may  be  done  yet,  he  may  be  at   home   afore 
you,  Who  can  tell  ? 

Wife.  O  no,  I  know  he's  dead,  I  know  he's  murder'd  ; 
tell  me  not  of  going  home,  you  murder  me  too. 

Mer.  Well,  since  it  pleases  you  to  have  it  so,  I  will  no 
more  perswade  you  to  go  home,  I'll  be  your  guide  in  the 
Countrey,  as  your  grief  doth  command  me,  I  have  a  Mother 
dwelling  from  this  place  some  20  miles  :  the  house  though 
homely,  yet  able  to  shew  something  like  a  welcome  ;  thither 
I'll  see  you  safe  with  all  your  sorrows. 

Wife.  With  all  the  speed  that  may  be  thought  upon ;  I 
have  a  Coach  here  ready,  good  Sir  quickly ;  I'll  fit  you  my 
fine  husband. 

Mer.  It  shall  be  so  ;  if  this  fellow  be  dead,  I  see  no 
band  of  any  other  Man,  -to  tye  me  from  my  will,  and  I  will 
follow  her  with  such  careful  service,  that  she  shall  either  be 
my  Love,  or  Wife ;  Will  you  walk  in  ? 

Wife.  I  thank  you,  Sir,  but  one  word  with  my  Man,  and 
I  am  ready  ;  keep  the  Irish  fellow  safe,  as  you  love  your  life, 
for  he  I  fear  has  a  deep  hand  in  this,  then  search  agen,  and  get 
out  warrants  for  that  naughty  man,  that  keeps  the  bad  house, 
that  he  may  answer  it,  if  you  find  the  body,  give  it  due  burial  ; 
farewel.  You  shall  hear  from  me,  keep  all  safe.  [Exeunt. 

Ser.    O  my  sweet  Master  ! 

Antonio  knocking  within. 

Ant.  within.  Man-a-cree,  the  Devil  take  thee,  Wilt  thou 
kill  me  here  ?  I  prethee  now  let  me  goe  seek  my  Master,  I 
shall  be  very  cheel  else. 

342 


Sc.  i  THE   COXCOMB 

Enter  Servant. 

Ser.  Do  you  hear  man-a-cree,  I'll  cree  your  coxcombe, 
and  you  keep  not  still,  down  you  rogue. 

Ant.  Good  sweet  fa6l  serving-man,  let  me  out  I  beseech 
de,  and  by  my  trot  I  will  give  dye  Worship  2  shillings  in 
good  argott,  to  buy  dy  Worship  pippines. 

Ser.  This  rogue  thinks  all  the  worth  of  man  consists  in 
Peepins;  by  this  light  I'll  beat  rebellion  out  of  you  for  ever. 

Ant.  Wilt  thou  not  hear  me  Man?  is  fet;  I'll  give  thee 
all  I  have  about  me. 

Ser.     I  thank  you,  Sir,  so  I  may  have  picking  work. 

Ant.     Here  is  five  shillings  Man. 

Serv.     Here  is  a  cudgel,  a  very  good  one. 

Enter  two  Serving-men. 

2.  Ser.  How  now,  What's  the  matter  ?  Where's  the 
Irishman. 

1.  Ser.     There,  a  wyth   take   him,  he   makes  more  noise 
alone   there,  than   ten    Lawyers   can   do   with   double,    and   a 
scurvy  Case. 

2.  Ser.     Let  him  out,  I  must  talk  with  him. 

Enter  Antonio. 

Ant.  Wilt  thou  give  me  some  drink,  O  hone  ?  I  am  very 
dry  Man. 

2  Ser.  You  shall  have  that  shall  quench  your  thirst,  my 
friend. 

Ant.     Fate  dost  thou  mean  man. 

2  Ser.     Even  a  good  tough  halter. 

Ant.     A  halter  ?     O  hone  ! 

2  Ser.  Sirrah,  you  are  a  mischievous  Rogue,  that's  the 
truth. 

Ant.     No,  fet  I  am  not. 

1  Ser.     Shall  I  knock  out  his  brains  ?     I  have  kill'd  dogs 
have  been  worth  three  of  him  for  all  uses. 

2  Ser.     Sirrah,  the  truth  on't  is,  you  must  with  me  to  a 
Justice.      O   Roger,   Roger. 

1  Ser.     Why,  what's  the  matter   William  ? 

2  Ser.     Heavy  news  Roger,  heavy  newes  ;   god  comfort  us. 
i  Ser.     What  is't  Man  ? 

343 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  HI 

Ant.  What's  the  matter  now  ?  I  am  e'en  weary  of  this 
way,  would  I  were  out  on't. 

I  Ser.     My  Master  sure  is  murder'd,  Roger,  and  this  cursed 
rogue 
I   fear,  has  had  a  hand  in't. 

Ant.      No  fet  not. 

1  Ser.     Stand  away,  I'll  kickt  out  of  him  :    come,  sirrha, 
mount,  I'll  make   you    dance,  you    Rascal,   kill    my    Master  ? 
If  thy  breech  were  cannon  proof,  having  this  good  cause  on 
my  side,  I  would  encounter  it ;    hold  fair,  Shamrocke. 

Ant.    Why  how  now  Sirs?  you  will  not  murder  me  indeed. 

2  Ser.     Bless  us  Roger  \ 
Ant.     Nay,  I  am  no  spirit. 

2  Ser.      How  do  you  Sir,  this  is  my  very  Master. 

Ant.  Why  well  enough  yet,  but  you  have  a  heavy  foot  of 
your  own  ;  Where's  my  Wife. 

i  Ser.  Alas  poor  sorrowful  Gentlewoman,  she  thinks  you 
are  dead,  and  has  given  o're  house-keeping. 

Ant.     Whether  is  she  gone  then  ? 

i  Ser.     Into  the  Countrey  with  the  Gentleman  your 
Friend  Sir,  to  see  if  she  can  wear  her  sorrows  out  there  ;  she 
weeps  and  takes  on  too  too — 

Ant.  This  falls  out  pat  ;  I  shall  be  everlasting  for  a  name  : 
Doe  you  hear  ?  upon  your  lives  and  faiths  to  me,  not  one 
word  I  am  living,  but  let  the  same  report  pass  along,  that 
I  am  murther'd  still ;  I  am  made  for  ever. 

I  Ser.     Why  Sir  ? 

Ant.  I  have  a  Cause  Sir,  that's  enough  for  you  ;  well,  if 
I  be  not  famous,  I  am  wrong'd  much  ;  for  any  thing  I  know 
I  will  not  trouble  him  this  week  at  least,  no,  let  them  take 
their  way  one  of  another. 

1  Ser.     Sir,  Will  you  be  still  an  Irish-man  ? 
Ant.     Yes  a  while. 

2  Ser.     But  your  Worship  will  be  beaten  no  more  ? 
Ant.     No,  I  thank  you   William. 

i  Ser.  In  truth,  Sir,  if  it  must  be  so,  I'll  do  it  better  than  a 
stranger. 

Ant.  Goe,  you  are  Knaves  both,  but  I  forgive  you,  I  am 
almost  mad  with  the  apprehension  of  what  I  shall  be,  not 
a  word  I  charge  you.  [Exeunt. 

344 


Sc.  i  THE   COXCOMB 

Enter  Valeric,  and  Viola. 

Pal.     Come,  pretty  soul,  we  now  are  near  our  home, 
And  whilst  our  horses  are  walkt  down  the  hill, 
Let  thou  and  I  walke  here  over  this  Close  : 
The  foot-way  is  more  pleasant,  'tis  a  time 
My  pretty  one,  not  to  be  wept  away, 
For  every  living  thing  is  full  of  love  ; 
Art  not  thou  so  too  ?    ha  ? 

Vio.     Nay,  there  are  living  things  empty  of  love, 
Or  I  had  not  been  here,  but  for  my  self, 
Alas,  I  have  too  much. 

Val.     It  cannot  be,  that  so  much  beauty,  so  much  youth 
and  grace  should  have  too  much  of  love.  (know. 

Vio.     Pray  what  is  love  ?    for  I  am  full  of  that  I  do  not 

VaL     Why,  love  fair  Maid  is  an  extream  desire, 
That's  not  to  be  examined,  but  fulfill'd, 
To  ask  the  reason  why  thou  art  in  love, 
Or  what  might  be  the  noblest  end  in  love, 
Would  overthrow  that  kindly  rising  warmth, 
That  many  times  slides  gently  o'r  the  heart, 
'Twould  make  thee  grave  and  staid,  thy  thoughts  would  be, 
Like  a  thrice  married  Widow,  full  of  ends, 
And  void  of  all  compassion,  and  to  fright  thee 
From  such  enquiry,  whereas  thou  art  now 
Living  in  ignorance,  mild,  fresh,  and  sweet, 
And  but  sixteen;    the  knowing  what  love  is, 
Would  make  thee  six  and  forty. 

Pio.     Would  it  would  make  me  nothing,  I  have  heard 
Scholars  affirm,  the  world's  upheld  by  Love, 
But  I  believe,  women  maintain  all  this, 
For  there's  no  love  in  men. 

VaL     Yes,  in  some  men. 

Vio.     I  know  them  not. 

Val.     Why,  there  is  love  in  me. 

Vio.     There's  charity  I  am  sure  towards  me.          (maid, 

Val.     And  love;    which  I  will    now    express,    my   pretty 
I  dare  not  bring  thee  home,  my  wife  is  foul, 
And  therefore  envious,  she  is  very  old, 
And  therefore  jealous  :    thou  art  fair  and  young. 

345 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  in 

A  subject  fit  for  her  unlucky  vices 

To  work  upon,  she  never  will  endure  thee. 

Vio.     She  may  endure 

If  she  be  ought,   but   Devil,  all   the   friendship 
That  I   will   hold  with   you  ;    can  she   endure 
I  should   be  thankful   to  you  ?    may   I   pray 
For  you  and   her,  will  she   be  brought   to  think. 
That  all  the  honest  industry  I  have, 
Deserves  brown  bread  ?    if  this  may  be  endur'd 
She'll  pick  a  quarrel  with  a  sleeping  child, 
E'r  she  fall  out  with   me. 

Pal.     But  trust  me,  she  does  hate  all  handsomness. 

Vio.     How  fell  you  in  love  with  such  a  creature  ? 

Pal.     I   never  lov'd  her. 

Vio.     And  yet  married  her  ? 

VaL     She  was  a  rich  one.  (then  too. 

Vio.     And  you  swore  I   warrant  you,  she  was  a  fair  one 

VaL     Or  believe  me,  I  think  I  had  not  had  her.     (place 

Vio.    Are  you  men  all  such  ?  wou'd  you  wou'd  wall  us  in  a 
Where  all  we  women  that  are  innocent, 
Might  live  together. 

Vol.     Do  not  weep  at  this, 
Although  I  dare  not  for  some  weighty  reason 
Displease  my  Wife,  yet  I   forget  not  thee. 

Vio.     What  will  you  do  with  me  ? 

VaL     Thou  shalt  be  plac'd 

At  my  mans  house,  and  have  such   food  and  raiment 
As  can   be  bought  with  money  :    these  white  hands 
Shall  never  learn  to  work,   but  they  shall  play 
As  thou  say'st  they  were  wont,  teaching  the  strings 
To  move  in  order,  or  what  else  thou  wilt. 

Vio.     I  thank  you,  Sir,  but  pray  you  cloath   me  poorly, 
And  let  my  labor  get  me  means  to  live. 

Pal.     But  fair  one,  you,  I  know  do  so  much   hate 
A   foul  ingratitude,  you  will  not  look 
I  should  do  this  for  nothing. 

Vio.     I  will  work  as  much  out  as  I  can,  and  take  as  little, 
That  you  shall  have  as  duely  paid  to  you 
As  ever  servant  did. 

VaL     But  give  me  now  a  trial  on't,  I   may   believe 

34-6 


Sc.  i  THE  COXCOMB 

We  are  alone,  shew  me  how  thou  wilt  kiss 
And  hug  me  hard,  when  I  have  stolen  away 
From  my  too  clamorous  wife  that  watches  me, 
To  spend  a  blessed  hour  or  t[w]o  with  thee. 

Vio.     Is  this  the  love  you  mean  ?    you  would  have  that 
Is  not  in  me  to  give,  you  would  have  lust. 

Val.     Not  to  dissemble,  or  to  mince  the  word, 
'Tis  Lust  I  wish  indeed. 

Vio.  And  by  my  troth  I  have  it  not :  for  heavens  sake  use 
me  kindly. 

Though  I  be  good,  and  shew  perhaps  a  monster, 
As  this  world  goes. 

Pal.     I  do 

But  speak  to  thee,  thy  answers  are  thy  own, 
I  compel  none,  but  if  [thou]   refuse  this  motion, 
Thou  art  not  then  for  me,  alas  good  soul  ; 
What  profit  can  thy  work  bring  me  ? 

Vw.     But  I   fear,  I  pray  goe,  for  lust  they  say,  will  grow 
Outragious,  being  deni'd,  I  give  you  thanks 
For  all  your  courtesies,  and   there's  a  Jewel 
That's  worth  the  taking,  that  I  did  preserve 
Safe  from  the  robbers,  pray  you  leave  me  here 
Just  as  you  found  me,  a  poor  innocent, 
And  Heaven  will  bless  you  for  it. 

Pal.     Pretty  maid,  I  am  no  Robber,  nor  no  Ravisher, 
I  pray  thee  keep  thy  Jewel,  I  have  done 
No  wrong  to  thee,  though  thou  beest  virtuous 
And  in  extremity,  I  do  not  know, 
That  I  am  bound  to  keep  thee. 

Vio.  No  Sir,  for  gods  sake,  if  you  know  an  honest  man 
in  all  these  Countreys,  give  me  some  directions  to  find  him 
out. 

Pal.  More  honest  than  my  self,  good  sooth  I  do  not 
know  ;  I  would  have  lain  with  thee,  with  thy  consent,  and 
who  would  not  in  all  these  parts,  is  past  my  memory,  I 
am  sorry  for  thee,  farewel  gentle  maid,  God  keep  thee 
safe.  [Exit. 

Vw.     I  thank  you  Sir,  and  you  ; 
Woman  they  say,  was  only  made  of  man, 
Methinks  'tis  strange  they  should  be  so  unlike, 

347 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  HI 

It  may  be  all  the  best  was  cut  away 
To  make  the  woman,  and   the  naught  was  left 
Behind  with   him,  I'll  sit  me  down  and   weep, 
All  things  have  cast  me  from  'em   but  the  earth  ; 
The  evening  comes,  and  every   little  flower 
Droops  now,  as  well  as  I. 

Enter  two  Milk-maids  with  pails. 

Nan.  Good  Madge  lets  rest  a  little,  by  my  troth  I  am 
weary,  this  new  pail  is  a  plaguy  heavy  one,  would  Tom 
were  hang'd  for  choosing  it,  'tis  the  untoward'st  fool  in  a 
Countrey. 

Madg.     With  all  my  heart,  and  I  thank  you  too,  Nan. 

Vio.     What  true  contented   happiness  dwels  here, 
More  than  in  Cities  !    wou'd  to  God  my  Father 
Had  liv'd  like  one  of  these,  and  bred  me  up 
To  milk  :    and  do  as  they  do  :    methinks 
'Tis  a  life  that  I  wou'd  choose,  if  I  were  now 
To  tell  my  time  agen,  above  a  Princes  ;    maids,  for    charity 
Give  a  poor  wench  one  draught  of  Milk, 
That  weariness  and  hunger  have  nigh   famish'd. 

Nan.  If  I  had  but  one  Cows  Milk  in  all  the  world,  you 
should  have  some  on't;  there,  drink  more,  the  Cheese  shall 
pay  for  it,  alas  poor  heart,  she's  drie. 

Madge.     Do  you  dwell  here  abouts  ? 

Vio.     No,  would  I  did.- 

Nan.  Madge,  if  she  does  not  looke  like  my  cosin  Sue  o'th' 
Moor  lane,  as  one  thing  can  look  like  another — 

Madge.  Nay,  Sue  has  a  hazle  eye,  I  know  Sue  well,  and 
by  your  leave,  not  so  trim  a  body  neither,  this  is  a  feat 
bodied  thing  I  tell  you. 

Nan.  She  laces  close  by  the  mass  I  warrant  you,  and  so 
does  Sue  too. 

yio.     I  thank  you  for  your  gentleness,  fair  maids. 

Nan.     Drink  agen  pray  thee. 

Via.  I  am  satisfied,  and  heaven  reward  thee  for't,  yet 
thus  far  I  will  compell  you  to  accept  these  trifles,  toys  only 
that  express  my  thanks,  for  greater  worth,  I'm  sure  they 
have  not  in  them  ;  indeed  you  shall,  I  found  'em  as  I  came. 

Nan.     Madge,  look  you  here  Madge. 

348 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 

Madg.  Nay,  I  have  as  fine  a  one  as  you,  mine's  all  gold, 
and  painted,  and  a  precious  stone  in't ;  I  warrant  it  cost  a 
crown  wench. 

Nan.  But  mine  is  the  most  sumptuous  one,  that  e'r  I 
saw. 

Vio.  One  favour  you  must  do  me  more,  for  you  are  well 
acquainted  here. 

Nan.     Indeed  we'll  do  you  any  kindness,  Sister. 

Vio.  Only  to  send  me  to  some  honest  place,  where  I  may 
find  a  service. 

Nan.  Uds  me,  our  Dorothy  went  away  but  last  week,  and 
I  know  my  Mistriss  want's  a  maid,  and  why  may  she  not  be 
plac'd  there  ?  this  is  a  likely  wench,  I  tell  you  truly,  and 
a  good  wench  I  warrant  her. 

Madg.  And  'tis  a  hard  case  if  we  that  have  serv'd  four 
years  apiece,  cannot  bring  in  one  servant,  we  will  prefer  her; 
hark  you  sister,  pray  what's  your  name  ? 

Vio.     Melvla. 

Nan.  A  feat  name  i'faith  ;  and  can  you  milk  a  Cow  ? 
and  make  a  merry-bush  ?  that's  nothing. 

Vio.     I  shall  learn  quickly. 

Nan.  And  dress  a  house  with  flowers  ?  and  serve  a  pig  ? 
this  you  must  do,  for  we  deal  in  the  Dary,  and  make  a  bed 
or  two  ? 

Vio.     I  hope  I  shall. 

Nan.  But  be  sure  to  keep  the  men  out,  they  will  mar  all 
that  you  make  else,  I  know  that  by  my  self;  for  I  have  been 
so  touz'd  among  'em  in  my  days,  come  you  shall  e'en  home 
with  us,  and  be  our  fellow,  our  house  is  so  honest,  and  we 
serve  a  very  good  woman,  and  a  Gentlewoman,  and  we  live  as 
merrily,  and  dance  a  good  daies  after  even-song:  our  Wake 
shall  be  on  Sunday  ;  do  you  know  what  a  Wake  is  ?  we 
have  mighty  cheer  then,  and  such  a  coil,  'twould  bless  ye ; 
you  must  not  be  so  bashful,  you'll  spoil  all. 

Madg.  Let's  home  for  Gods  sake,  my  Mistriss  thinks  by 
this  time  we  are  lost,  come,  we'll  have  a  care  of  you,  I 
warrant  you  ;  but  you  must  tell  my  Mistriss  where  you  were 
born,  and  every  thing  that  belongs  to  you,  and  the  strangest 
things  you  can  devise,  for  she  loves  those  extreamly,  'tis  no 
matter  whether  they  be  true  or  no,  she's  not  so  scrupulous; 

349 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  iv 

you  must  be  our  Sister,  and  love  us  best,  and  tell  us  every 
thing,  and  when  cold  weather  comes,  we'll  lye  together, 
will  you  do  this  ? 

Vio.     Yes. 

Nan.     Then  home  again  o'  gods  name,  can  you  go  apace. 

yio.     I   warrant  you.  {Exeunt. 

AElus   Quartus.     Sccena  Prima. 

Enter  Pedro  and  Uberto,  severally. 

Ped.    T   T  Ow  now,  any  good  news  yet  ? 
Silvio.     Faith  not  any  yet. 

Ped.     This  comes  o'  tipling  ;    would  'twere  treason  and't 
pleas['d]  God,  to  drink  more  than  three  draughts  at  a  meal. 

Si/.     When   did  you  see   Richardo  ? 

Ped.     I  crost  him  twice  to  day. 

5/7.     You  have  heard  of  a  young  wench  that  was  seen  last 
[night]. 

Ped.     Yes. 

Si/.     Has  Richard  heard  of  this  ? 

Ped.     Yes,  and  I  think  he's  ridden  after,  farewel,  I'll  have 
another  round. 

Si/.     If  you  hear  any  thing,  pray  spare  no  horse-flesh, 
I'll  do  the  like. 

Ped.     Do.  [Exeunt. 

Enter  Richardo  and  Valeric. 

Rich.     Sir,  I  did  think  'twas  you  by  all  descriptions. 

VaL     'Tis  so, 

I  took  her  up  indeed,  the  manner  how 
You  have  heard  already,  and  what  she  had  about  her, 
As  Jewels,  Gold,  and  other  trifling  things : 
And  what  my  end  was,  which   because  she  slighted, 
I  left  her  there  i'th'  fields. 

Rich.     Left  i'th'   fields  ?    could  any  but  a  Rogue 
That  had  despis'd  humanity  and  goodness, 
[God,]   law  and  credit ;    and  had  set  himself 
To  lose  his  noblest  part,  and  be  a  beast, 
Have  left  so  innocent  unmatch'd  a  virtue, 
To  the  rude  mercy  of  a  wilderness  ? 

350 


Sc.  i  THE   COXCOMB 

VaL     Sir,  if  you  come  to  rail,  pray  quit  my  house, 
I  do  not  use  to  have  such  language  given 
Within  my  doors  to  me  ;   for  your  wench, 
You  may  go  seek  her  with  more  patience, 
She's  tame  enough,  I  warrant  you. 

Rich.     Pray  forgive  me. 
I  do  confess  my  much  forgetfulness  ; 
And  weigh  my  words  no  farther,  I  beseech  you, 
Then  a  mere  madness,  for  such  a  grief  has  seiz'd  me 
So  strong  and  deadly,  as  a  punishment, 
And  a  just  one  too, 
That  'tis  a  greater  wonder  I  am  living, 
Than  any  thing  I  utter ;    yet  let  me  tell  you  thus  much, 
'Twas  a  fault  for  leaving  her 
So  in  the  fields. 

Val.     Sir,  I  will  think  so  now,  and  credit  me, 
You  have  so  wrought  me  with  your  grief,  that  I 
Do  both  forgive  and  pity  you  : 
And  if  you'll  please  to  take  a  bed  this  night  here  ; 
To  morrow  I'll  bring  you  where  I  left  her. 

Rich.     I  thank  you,  [no,]  shall  I  be  so  unworthy  : 
To  think  upon  a  bed,  or  ease,  or  comfort, 
And  have  my  heart  stray  from  me,  God  knows  where, 
Cold  and  forsaken,  destitute  of  friends, 
And  all  good  comforts  else,  unless  some  tree 
Whose  speechless  charity  must  better  ours, 
With  which  the  bitter  east  winds  made  their  sport 
And  sung  through  hourly,  hath  invited  her 
To  keep  off  half  a  day  ?   shall  she  be  thus, 
And  I  draw  in  soft  slumbers  ?     God  forbid. 
No,  night  and  bitter  coldness,  I  provoke  thee, 
And  all  the  dews  that  hang  upon  thy  locks,  (prime 

Showrs,   Hails,   Snows,    Frosts,   and    two   edged    Winds    that 
The  maiden  blossoms,  I  provoke  you  all, 
And  dare  expose  this  body  to  your  sharpness, 
Till  I  be  made  a  Land-mark. 

Val.     Will  you  then  stay  and  eat  with  me  ? 

Rich.     Y'are  angry  with  me,  I  know  y'are  angry, 
You  would  not  bid  me  eat  else ;    my  poor  Mistriss, 
For  ought  I  know  thou'rt  famish'd,  for  what  else 

351 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  iv 

Can  the  fields  yield  thee,  and  the  stubborn  season, 

That  yet  holds  in  the   fruit  ?    good  gentle  Sir, 

Think  not   ill  manners  in  me   for  denying 

Your  offer'd   meat,   for  sure  I  cannot  eat 

While  I  do  think  she   wants  ;    well   I'm  a   rascal  ; 

A  villain,  slave,  that  only  was  begotten, 

To  murder  women,  and  of  them   the   best. 

Vol.     This  is  a  strange  affliction. 
If  you'll  accept  no  greater  courtesie,  yet  drink  Sir. 

Ric.     Now  I  am  sure  you   hate  me,  and  you  knew 
What  kind  of  man   I  am,  as  indeed   'tis  fit, 
That  every  man  should  know  me  to  avoid  me. 
If  you  have  peace  within  you,  Sir,  or  goodness 
Name  that  abhord  word  Drink,  no  more  unto  me, 
You  had  safer  strike  me. 
I  pray  you  do  not,  if  you  love  me  do  not. 

yah     Sir,   I   mean  no  ill  by  it. 

Ric.     It  may  be  so, 
Nor  let  me  see 

None  Sir,  if  you  love  heaven  ; 
You  know  not  what  offence  it  is  unto  me, 
Nor  good  now  do  not  ask  me  why  : 

And  I  warn  you  once  again,  let  no  man  else  speak  oft, 
I  fear  your  servants  will  be  prating  to  me. 

VaL     Why  Sir,  what  ail  you  ? 

Rich.     I  hate  drink,  there's  the  end  on't, 
And  that  man  that  drinks  with  meat  is  damn'd 
Without  an  age  of  prayers  and  repentance, 
And  there's  a  hazard  too  ;    good  Sir,  no  more 
If  you  will  do  me  a  free  courtesie  ; 
That  I  shall  know  for  one  :    go  take  your  horse, 
And  bring  me  to  the  place  where  you  left  her  : 

Val.     Since  you  are  so  impo[r]tunate,  I  will ; 
But  I  will  wish  Sir,  you  had  staid  to  night 
Upon  my  credit  you  shall  see  no  drink. 

Rich.     Be  gone,  the  hearing  of  it  makes  me  giddy, 
Sir,  will  you  be   intreated  to  forbear  it, 
I  shall  be  mad  else. 

yal.     I  pray  no  more  of  that,  I  am  quiet, 
I'll  but  walk  in,  and  away  straight. 

352 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 

Rich.     Now  I  thank  you, 
But  what  you  do,  do  in  a  twinkling,  Sir. 

Val.     As  soon  as  may  be.  [Exit. 

Enter  Mother,  Viola,  and  two  Milk-maids. 

Moth.    Is  this  the  wench  you  have  brought  me  ?  some  catch 
I  warrant. 
How  daringly  she  looks  upon  the  matter  ! 

Madge.     Yes  forsooth,  this  is  the  maiden. 

Moth.     Come  hither,  wou'd  you  serve  ? 

fio.  If  it  shall  please  you  to  accept  my  service,  I  hope  I 
shall  do  something  that  shall  like  you,  though  it  be  but 
truth,  and  often  praying  for  you. 

Moth.     You  are  very  curious  of  your  hand  methinks, 
You  preserve  it  so  with  gloves,  let  me  see  it ; 
I  marry,  here's  a  hand  of  march-pane,  wenches, 
This  pretty  palme  never  knew  sorrow  yet ; 
How  soft  it  is  I  warrant  you,  and  supple  : 
O'  my  word,  this  is  fitter  for  a  pocket  to  filch  withal 
Than  to  [work],  I  fear  me  little  one, 
You  are  no  better  than  you  should  be  ;    goe  to. 

Vio.     My  Conscience  yet  is  but  one  witness  to  me, 
And  that  heaven  knows,  is  of  mine  innocence, 
'Tis  true,  I  must  confess  with  shame  enough, 
The  time  that  I  have  led,  yet  never  taught  me 
What  'twas  to  break  a  sleep,  or  to  be  weary. 

Moth.  You  can  say  well:  if  you  be  mine,  wench,  you 
must  doe  well  too,  for  words  are  but  slow  workers,  yet  so 
much  hope  I  have  of  you,  that  I'll  take  you,  so  you'll  be 
diligent,  and  do  your  duty  :  how  now  ? 

Enter  Alexander. 

Alex.     There  is  a  messenger  come  from  your  son, 
That  brings  you  word  he  is  return 'd  from  travel, 
And  will  be  here  this  night. 

Moth.     Now  joy  upon  thee  for  it,  thou  art  ever 
A  bringer  of  good  tidings,  there,  drink  that  : 
In  troth  thou  hast  much  contented  me,  my  Son  ! 
Lord  how  thou  hast  pleas'd  me,  shall  I  see  my  Son 
Yet  e'r  I   dye  ?    take  care  my  house  be  handsome, 

B.-F.  vin.  z  353 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  iv 

And   the  new  stools  set  out,  and  boughs  and  rushes, 
And   flowers  for  the  window,  and   the    Turky  Carpet, 
And   the  great  parcel  Salt,   Nan,   with   the  Cruets, 
And   prethee  Alexander  goe  to   the  Cook, 
And   bid   him  spare   for  nothing,   my  son's  come   home, 
Who's  come  with   him  ? 

Alex.     I  hear  of  none  yet,   but  a  Gentlewoman. 

Moth.     A   Gentlewoman  ?    what   Gentlewoman  ? 

Alex.     I  know  not,  but  such  a  one  there  is,  he  says. 

Moth.     Pray  God  he  have  not  cast  away  himself 
Upon  some  snout-fair  piece,  I   do  not  like  it. 

Alex.     No  sure,  my  Master  has  more  discretion. 

Moth.     [Well,]   be  it  how   it  will,   he  shall  be  welcome. 
Sirs  to  your  tasks,  and  shew  this  little  novice 
How  to  bestir  her  self,  I'll  sort  out  things.  [Exit. 

Madge.  We  will  forsooth,  I  can  tell  you,  my  Mistriss  is 
a  stirring  woman. 

Nan.  Lord  how  she'll  talk  sometimes  !  'tis  the  maddest 
cricket — 

Vio.  Methinks  she  talks  well,  and  shews  a  great  deal  of 
good  huswivery,  pray  let  me  deck  the  chambers,  shall  I  ? 

Nan.  Yes,  you  shall,  but  do  not  scorn  to  be  advis'd,  Sister, 
for  there  belongs  more  to  that,  than  you  are  aware  on  ;  why 
[w]ould  you  venture  so  fondly  upon  the  strowings  ?  there's 
mighty  matters  in  them  I'll  assure  you,  and  in  the  spreading 
of  a  bough-pot,  you  may  miss,  if  you  were  ten  years  elder, 
if  you  take  not  a  special  care  before  you. 

Vio.     I  will  learn  willingly,  if  that  be  all. 

Nan.  Sirrah  where  is't  they  say  my  young  Master  hath 
been  ? 

Madg.  Faith  I  know  not,  beyond  the  Sea,  where  they  are 
born  without  noses. 

Nan.  [Jesse  blesse]  us !  without  noses  ?  how  do  they  do 
for  handkerchiefs  ? 

Madg.  So  Richard  says,  and  sirrah,  their  feet  stand  in 
their  foreheads. 

Nan.  That's  fine  by  my  troth,  these  men  have  pestilent 
running  heads  then  ;  do  they  speak  as  we  do  ? 

Mag.     No,  they  never  speak. 

Nan.     Are  they  cursend  ? 

354 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 

Mag.  No,  they  call  them  Infidels,  I  know  not  what  they 
are. 

Nan.  Sirrah,  we  shall  have  fine  courting  now  my  young 
master  is  come  home,  were  you  never  courted  Sister  ? 

Vio.     Alas,  I  know  it  not. 

Mag.     What  is  that  courting,  sirrah  ? 

Nan.  I  can  tell,  for  I  was  once  courted  in  the  matted 
chamber,  you  know  the  party  Madge,  faith  he  courted  finely. 

Madg.     Pray  thee  what  is't  ? 

Na\ri\.  Faith,  nothing  but  he  was  somewhat  figent  with 
me,  faith  'tis  fine  sport,  this  courting. 

Alex,  within.     Where  be  the  Maids  there  ? 

Madg.  We  shall  be  hang'd  anon,  away  good  wenches, 
and  have  a  care  you  dight  things  handsomly,  I  will  look 
over  you.  [Exeunt. 

Enter  Mercury  and  Maria. 

Mer.  If  your  sorrow  will  give  you  so  far  leave,  pray  think 
your  self  most  welcome  to  this  place,  for  so  upon  my  life  you 
are,  and  for  your  own  fair  sake,  take  truce  awhile  with  these 
immoderate  mournings. 

Wife.     I   thank  you  Sir,  I  shall  doe  what  I  may  ; 
Pray  lead  me  to  a  chamber. 

Enter  Mother  and  Alexander. 

Mer.      Presently, 

Before  your  blessing  Mother,  I  intreat  ye 
To  know  this  Gentlewoman,  and  bid  her  welcome, 
The  virtuous  wife  of  him  that  was  my  self 
In  all  my  travels. 

Moth.     Indeed  she  is  most  welcome,  so  are  you  son    \kneel. 
Now  all  my  blessing  on  thee  ;    thou  hast  made  me 
Younger  by  20  years,  than  I  was  yesterday, 
Will  you  walk  in  ?    what  ails  this  Gentlewoman  ? 
Alas,  I  fear  she  is  not  well,  good  Gen[t]lewoman. 

Mer.     You  fear  right. 

Moth.     She  has  fasted  over  long, 
You  shall  have  supper  presently  o'th'  board. 

Mer.     She  will  not  eat  ;    I  can  assure  you  Mother, 
For  Gods  sake  let  your  Maid  conduct  her  up 

22  355 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  iv 

Into  some  fair  becoming  Chamber 

Fit  for  a  woman  of  her  Being,  and 

As  soon  as  may  be, 

I  know  she's  very  ill,  and  wou'd  have  rest. 

Moth.     There  is  one  ready  for  her,  the  blew  chamber. 

Mer.     'Tis  well,  I'll  lead  you  to  your  chamber  door 
And  there  I'll  leave  you  to  your  quiet,   Mistriss. 

Wife.     I  thank  you,  Sir,  good  rest  to  every  one, 
You'll  see  me  once  again  to  night,  I  hope.  [Exit. 

Mer.     When  you  shall  please,  I'll  wait  upon  you,  Lady. 

Moth.  Where  are  these  maids,  attend  upon  the  Gentle- 
woman, and  see  she  want  no  good  thing  in  the  house  ?  good- 
night with  all  my  heart  forsooth,  good  Lord  how  you  are 
grown,  is  he  not  Alexander  ? 

Alex.     Yes  truly,  he's  shot  up  finely,  God  be  thanked. 

Mer.     An  ill  weed,  Mother,  will  do  so. 

Alex.     You  say  true,  Sir,  an  ill  weed  grows  apace. 

Mer.     Alexander  the  sharp,  you  take  [me]  very  quickly. 

Moth.  Nay,  I  can  tell  you,  Alexander  will  do  it,  do  you 
read  madcap  still  ? 

Alex.     Sometimes  forsooth. 

Moth.     But  faith  Son,  what  Countreys  have  you  travell'd  ? 

Mer.  Why  many,  Mother,  as  they  lay  before  me,  France, 
Spain,  Italy  and  Germany,  and  other  Provinces  that  I  am 
sure,  you  are  not  better'd  by,  when  you  hear  of  them. 

Moth.     And  can  you  these  tongues  perfedtly  ? 

Mer.     Of  some  a  little,  Mother. 

Moth.     Pray  spout  some  French  Son. 

Mer.  You  understand  it  not,  and  to  your  ears  'twill  goe 
like  an  unshod  cart  upon  the  stones,  only  a  rough  unhand- 
some sound. 

Moth.     [Faith]  I  would  fain  hear  some  French. 

Alex.     Good  Sir,  speak  some  French  to  my  Mistriss. 

Mer.  At  your  intreaty  Alexander,  I  will,  who  shall  I  speak 
to? 

Alex.     If  your  worship  will  do  me  the  favour  Sir,  to  me. 

Mer.    Mounseir,  Poultron,  Coukew,  Cullione,  Besay,  Man  cur. 

Alex.     Awe  Mounseir. 

Moth.  Ha,  ha,  ha,  this  fine  indeed,  gods  blessing  'on  thy 
heart  Son,  by  my  troth  thou  art  grown  a  proper  Gentleman, 

356 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 

cullen   and   pullen,  good  god  what   [saucey]   words  they   use 
beyond  the  seas,  ha,  ha,  ha  ! 

Alex.     Did  not  [you  sweare]  right. 

Mer.     Yes  good  Alexander,  if  you  had  done  so  too, 
But  good  Mother,  I  am   very   hungry,   and   have   rid   far   to 
day,  and  am  fasting. 

Moth.  You  shall  have  your  supper  presently,  my  sweet 
Son. 

Mer.     As  soon  as  you  please,  which  once  ended, 
I'll  go  and  visit  yo[n]  sick  Gentlewoman. 

Moth.     Come  then.  [Exeunt. 

Enter  Antonio  like  a  Post,  with  a  Letter. 

Ant.  I  have  ridden  like  a  fury,  to  make  up  this  work, 
and  I  will  do  it  bravely,  e'r  I  leave  it  ;  this  is  the  house  I 
am  sure. 

Enter  Alexander. 

Alex.     Who  wou'd  you  speak  with,  Sir  ? 

Ant.  Marry  Sir,  I  would  speak  with  a  Gentlewoman, 
came  this  night  late  here  from  the  City,  I  have  some  Let- 
ters of  importance  to  her,  I  am  a  Post  Sir,  and  would  be 
dispa[t]ch'd  in  haste. 

Alex.  Sir,  cannot  I  deliver  'em  ?  for  the  truth  is,  she's 
ill,  and  in  her  chamber. 

Ant.  Pray  pardon  me,  I  must  needs  speak  with  her,  my 
business  is  so  weighty. 

Alex.     I'll  tell  her  so,  and  bring  you  present  word. 

Ant.  Pray  do  so,  and  I'll  attend  her,  pray  god  the  grief  of 
my  imagined  death,  spoil  not  what  I  intend,  I  hope  it  will 

not. 

Alex.     Though  she  be  very  ill,  and  desi    s  no  trouble, 
Yet  if  your   business   be  so   urgent,  you   may   come  up  and 
speak  with  her. 

Ant.     I  thank  you  Sir,  I  follow  you.  [Exit  Alex. 

Enter  Wife. 

Wife.  What  should  this  fellow  be  i'th'  name  of  Heaven, 
that  comes  with  such  post  business  ?  sure  my  Husband  hath 
reveal'd  himself,  and  in  this  haste  sent  after  me,  are  you  the 
Post  my  friend  ? 

357 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  iv 

Enter  Anto[n]io. 

Ant.     Yes  forsooth   Mistriss. 

Wife.  What  good  news  hast  thou  brought  me  gentle  Post? 
For  I  have  woe  and  grief  too  much  already. 

Ant.  I  would  you  had  less,  Mistriss,  I  could  wish  it, 
beshrew  my  heart  she  moves  me  cruelly. 

Wife.  Have  I  found  you  once  more  Jugler  ?  well  Jewel, 
thou  hast  only  virtue  in  thee,  of  all  I  read  of  yet  ;  what  ears 
has  this  ass  to  betray  him  with  ?  well,  what's  your  business 
then  ? 

Ant.  I  have  brought  a  Letter  from  your  servant,  Mistriss, 
in  haste. 

Wife.     Pray  give  it  me,  I  hope  the  best  still. 

Ant.     This  is  the  upshot,  and  I   know  I  have  hit  it, 
Well,  if  the  spirits  of  the  dead  do  walk,  I  shall 
Hear  more  of  this  one  hundred  years  hence. 

Wife.  By  any  means  you  must  have  special  care,  for  now 
the  City  is  possest  for  certain,  my  Master  is  made  away, 
which  for  ought  I  know  is  [a]  truth  indeed  ;  good  Mistriss 
leave  your  grief,  and  see  your  danger,  and  let  that  wise  and 
noble  Gentleman  with  whom  you  are,  be  your  right  hand 
in  all  things. 

Ant.  Now  do  I  know  I  have  the  better  on't,  by  the  lan- 
guishing of  her  eye  at  this  near  instant,  'tis  still  simming  in 
her  blood,  in  coyning  somewhat  to  turn  Mercury,  I  know  it. 

Wife.  He  is  my  Husband,  and  'tis  reasonable  he  should 
command  in  all  things,  since  he  will  be  an  ass  against  the 
hair,  at  his  own  peril  be  it,  in  the  morn  you  shall  have  a 
pacquet,  till  when,  I  must  intreat  you  stay,  you  shall  not  lose 
by  it. 

Ant.  I  do  not  doubt  it,  Mistriss  ;  I'll  leave  you  to  your 
rest,  and  wait  your  pleasure. 

Wife.  Do,  and  seek  out  the  Gentleman  of  the  house,  bid 
him  come  to  me  presently. 

Ant.     Who,   Mr.  Mercury  ? 

Wife.     Do  you  know  him,  Post  ? 

Ant.  Only  by  sight  forsooth,  now  I  remember  your  ser- 
vant will'd  me  to  let  you  know  he  is  the  only  man,  you  [and] 
your  fortunes,  are  now  to  rest  upon. 

358 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 

Wife.     Prethee  no  more,  I  know  all  this  already. 
Ant.     I'll  take  my  leave  now,  I  am  made  for  ever.      [Exit. 
Wife.     Good  night,  I  am  provided  for  you,  my  fine  youth. 

[Exit. 

Enter  Mother,  beating  Viola,  Alexander  with 

a  broken   Glass. 

Mother.      I'll  make  thee  have  more  care. 

Viola.     Good  Mistriss  pardon  me. 

Moth.  Thou'lt  ne'r  be  good  I  warrant  thee,  can  your  fine 
fingers  hold  no  faster  ? 

Viola.     Indeed  it  was  against  my  will. 

Moth.  Alexander,  let's  see  the  glass,  as  I  am  true  kirsome 
woman,  it  is  one  of  the  chrystal  glasses  my  Cosin  sent  me, 
and  the  baggage  hath  broke  it  where  it  cannot  be  mended, 
Alexander,  can  Humphrey  mend  this  think  you  ? 

Alex.     No  truly,  this  will  ne'er  be  mended. 

Vio.  Truly  I  meant  but  to  wash  it  for  the  Gentlewoman 
that  is  sick  above,  and  shaking  out  the  water,  knockt  it  against 
the  pail  side. 

Moth.  Did  you  so  ?  be  sure  I'll  stop  it,  'twill  make  a  good 
gap  in  your  quarters  wages,  I  can  tell  you. 

Viola.  I  pray  forgive  me,  and  let  me  have  no  wages  this 
first  quarter. 

Moth.  Go  whimling,  and  fetch  two  or  three  grating 
loaves  out  of  the  Kitching,  to  make  Ginger-bread  of,  'tis 
such  an  untoward  thing.  [Exit  Viola. 

Alex.  She's  somewhat  simple  indeed,  she  knew  not  what  a 
kimnel  was,  she  wants  good  nurture  mightily. 

Moth.  My  Son  tells  me,  Alexander,  that  this  young  widow 
means  to  sojourn  here,  she  offers  largely  for  her  board,  I  may 
offer  her  good  cheer,  prethee  make  a  step  i'th'  morning 
down  to  the  Parsonage  for  some  Pigeons ;  what  are  you 
mad  there  ?  what  noise  is  that  ?  are  you  at  bowls  within  ? 
why  do  you  whine  ? 

Enter  Viola  weeping. 

Vio.  I  have  done  another  fault,  I  beseech  you  sweet 
Mistriss  forgive  me. 

Moth.     What's  the  matter  ? 

359 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  iv 

Vio.  As  I  was  reaching  for  the  bread  that  lay  upon  the 
shelf,  I  have  thrown  down  the  minc'd  meat,  that  should  have 
made  the  pies  to  morrow. 

Moth.  Get  thee  out  of  my  house,  thou  filthy  destroying 
Harlot,  thou,  I'll  not  keep  thee  an  hour  longer. 

Vio.  Good  Mistriss,  beat  me  rather  for  my  fault,  as  much 
as  it  deserves,  I  do  not  know  whither  to  go. 

Moth.     No  I  warrant  thee,  out  of  my  doors. 

Vio.     Indeed  I'll  mend,  I   pray  speak  you  for  me. 

Alex.  If  thou  hadst  hurl'd  down  any  thing  but  the  Pie- 
meat,  I  would  have  spoke  for  thee,  but  I  cannot  find  in  my 
heart  now. 

Moth.  Art  thou  here  yet  ?  I  think  I  must  have  an  Officer 
to  thrust  thee  out  of  my  doors,  must  I  ? 

Vio.     Why,  you  may  stop  this  in  my  wages  too, 
For  God's  sake  do,  I'll  find  my  self  this  year  ; 
And  let  me  stay. 

Mer.  Thou't  spoil  ten  times  as  much,  I'll  cudgel  thee 
out  of  my  doors. 

Vio.     I  am  assur'd  you  are  more  merciful, 
Than  thus  to  beat  me  and  discharge  me  too. 

Moth.  Dost  thou  dispute  with  me,  Alexander  carry  the 
prating  hilding  forth. 

Vio.     Good  Mistriss  hear  me,  I  have  here  a  Jewel, 
My  Mother  left  me,  and  'tis  something  worth  : 
Receive  it,  and  when  all  my  faults  together 
Come  to  the  worth  of  that,  then  turn  me  forth, 
Till  then  I  pray  you  keep  me. 

Moth.  What  giggombob  have  we  here  ?  pray  god  you 
have  not  pilfred  this  somewhere,  th'art  such  a  puling  thing, 
wipe  your  eyes,  and  rise,  go  your  ways,  Alexander,  bid  the 
Cook  mince  some  more  meat,  come,  and  get  you  to  bed 
quickly,  that  you  may  up  betime  i'th'  morning  a  milking, 
or  you  and  I  shall  fall  out  worse  yet.  \_Exit  Moth,  and  Alex. 

Vio.  She  has  hurt  my  arm ;  I  am  afraid  she  is  a  very  angry 
woman,  but  bless  him  heaven  that  did  me  the  most  wrong, 
I  am  afraid  Antonio's  wife  should  see  me,  she  will  know  me. 

Mother  within.     Melvia. 

Vio.     I  am  coming,  she's  not  angry  agen  I  hope.    [Exit. 

360 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 

Enter  Mercury. 

Mer.     Now  what  am  I  the  better  for  enjoying 
This  woman  that  I  lovM  so  ?    all  I  find, 
That  I  before  imagined  to  be  happy  : 
Now  I  have  done,  it  turns  to  nothing  else 
But  a  poor  pitied,  and  a  base  repentance, 
Udsfoot,  I  am  monstrous  angry  with  my  self: 
Why  should  a  man  that  has  discourse  and  reason, 
And  knows  how  near  he  loses  all  in  these  things, 
Covet  to  have  his  wishes  satisfied  ; 
Which  when  they  are,  are  nothing  but  the  shame 
I  do  begin  to  loath  this  woman  strangely, 
And  I  think  justly  too,  that  durst  adventure, 
Flinging  away  her  modesty  to  take 
A  stranger  to  her  bed,  her  Husbands  body 
Being  scarce  cold  in  the  earth  for  her  content, 
It  was  no  more  to  take  my  senses  with 
Than  if  I  had  an  idle  dream  in  sleep 
Yet  I  have  made  her  promises  :    which  grieves  me, 
And  I  must  keep  'em  too,  I  think  she  hunts  me  : 
The  devil  cannot  keep  these  women  off, 
When  they  are  fletched  once. 

Enter  Wife  in  night  attire. 

Wife.     To  bed  for  gods  sake  Sir,  why  do  you  stay  here? 
Some  are  up  i'th'  house,  I  heard  the  wife, 
Good  dear  sweet-heart  to  bed. 

Mer.     Why,  I  am  going  !    why  do  you  follow  me  ? 
You  would  not  have  it  known  I  hope,  pray  get  you 
Back  to  your  chamber,  the  doors  hard  by  for  me, 
Let  me  alone,  I  warrant  you  this  it  is 
To  thresh  well,  I  have  got  a  customer, 
Will  you  go  to  bed  ? 

Wife.     Will  you? 

Mer.     Yes,  I  am  going. 

Wife.   Then  remember  your  promise  you  made  to  marry  me. 

Mer.  I  will,  but  it  was  your  fault,  that  it  came 
To  this  pinch  now,  that  it  must  need  remembrance  : 
For  out  of  honesty  I  offer'd  you 

361 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  v 

To  marry  you  first,   why  did  you  slack   that  offer  ? 

Wife.     Alas  I  told  you  the  inconvenience  of  it, 
And  what  wrong  it  would  appear  to  the  world 
If  I   had  married   [you]   in  such  post-haste 
After  his  death  :    beside,  the  foolish  people 
Would  have  been  bold  to  have  thought  we  had  lain  together 
in  his  time,  and  like  enough  imagin'd 
We  two  had  murther'd  him. 

Mer.     I  love  her  tongue  yet, 
If  I  were  a  Saint 

A  gilded  Saint,  and  such  a  thing  as  this 
Should  prate  thus  wittily  and  feelingly 
Unto  my  Holiness,  1  cannot  tell, 
But  I  fear  shrewdly  I  should  do  something 
That  would  quite  scratch  me  out  o'th'  Kalender, 
And  if  I  stay  longer  talking  with  her, 
Though  I  am  mad  at  what  I  have  done  already, 
Yet  I  shall  forget  my  self  again  ; 
I  feel  the  Devil 
Ready  to  hold  my  stirrop  ;    pray  to  bed,  good  night. 

Wife.     This  kiss,  good  night  sweet  Love, 
And  peace  goe  with  thee  :    thou  hast  prov'd  thy  self 
The  honestest  man  that  ever  was  entic'd 
To  that  sweet  sin  as  people  please  to  call  it, 
Of  lying  with  anothers  wife,  and  I, 
I  think  the  honestest  woman  without  blushing, 
That  ever  lay  with  another  man,  I  sent  my  Husband 
Into  a  Cellar,  post,  fearing,  and  justly 
He  should  have  known  him,  which  I  did  not  purpose 
Till  I  had  had  my  end. 
Well,  now  this  plot  is  perfect,  let  him  brag  on't.          [Exit. 

Attus  Quintus.     Sctena  Prima. 

Enter  Justice  and  Curio  with  a  Paper. 

Irlady  Sir,  you  have  rid  hard  that  you  have. 
They  that  have  business,  must  do  so,  I  take  it. 
You  say  true,  when  set  you  out  my  friend  ? 
About  ten  a  clock,  and  I  have  rid  all  night. 

362 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 

Just.  By  the  mass  you  are  tough  indeed,  I  have  seen  the 
day,  I  would  have  rid  too  with  the  proudest  of  them,  and 
fling  dirt  in  their  faces,  and  I  have  don't  with  this  foolish 
boy,  Sir,  many  a  time  ;  but  what  can  last  always  ?  'tis  done, 
'tis  done  now,  Sir,  age,  care,  and  office,  brings  us  to  our 
footcloaths,  the  more  the  pity. 

Curio.  I  believe  that,  Sir,  but  will  it  please  you  to  read 
the  business  ? 

Just.     My  friend,  I  can  read,  and  I  can  tell  you  when. 

Cur.     Would  I  could  too  Sir,  for  my  haste  requires  it. 

Just.     Whence  comes  it  do  you  say  ? 

Cur.      Sir  from  the  City. 

Just.     Oh  from  the  City,  'tis  a  reverent  place. 

Curio.     And  his  justice  be  as  short  as  his  memory, 
A  Dudgion  Dagger  will  serve  him  to  mow  down  sin  withal, 
What  clod-pole  Commissioner  is  this  ? 

Just.     And  by  my  faith,  govern'd  by  worthy  members, 
Discreet  and  upright. 

Cur.  Sir,  they  are  beholding  to  you,  you  have  given  some 
of  them  a  commendations,  they  were  not  worthy  of  this 
twenty  years. 

Just.  Go  to,  go  to,  you  have  a  merry  meaning,  I  have 
found  you  Sir,  i'  faith,  you  are  a  wag,  away,  fie  now  I'll  read 
Your  Letter. 

Cur.     Pray  do  Sir  ;    what  a  misery  'tis 
To  have  an  urgent  business  wait  the  Justice 
Of  such  an  old  Tuff-taffata  that  knows  not, 
Nor  can   be   brought  to  understand  more  sence, 
Than  now  to  restore  supprest  Alehouses, 
And  have  his  man  compound  small  trespasses, 
For  ten  groats. 

Just.  Sir,  it  seems  here  your  business  is  of  a  deeper  circum- 
stance than  I  conceiv'd  it  for  ;  what  do  you  mean,  Sir  ? 

Cur.     'Tis  for  mine  own  ease  I'll  assure   your  Worship. 

Just.     It  shall  not  be  i'  faith  friend,  here  I  have  it, 
That  one  Antonio  a  Gentleman,  I  take  it  so, 
Yes,  it  is  so,  a  Gentleman   is  lately  thought  to 
Have  been  made  away,  and  by  my  faith,  upon  a 
Pearls  ground  too,  if  you  consider  ;    well,  there's 
Knavery  in't,  I  see  that  without  spectacles. 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  v 

Cur.     Sure  this  fellow  deals  in  revelation,  he's  so  hidden, 
Goe  thy  ways,  thou  wilt  stick  a  bench  spit  as  formally, 
And  shew  thy  Agot,  and   hatch'd  chain 
As  well  as  the  best  of  them. 

yust.      And  now  I  have  considered,  I   believe  it. 

Cur.     What  Sir? 

yust.     That  he  was  murdered. 

Cur.     Did  you  know  him  ? 

Just.     No. 

Cur.     Nor  how  it  is  supposed. 

Just.  No,  nor  I  care  not  two-pence,  those  are  toys  and 
yet  I  verily  believe  he  was  murdered,  as  sure  as  I  believe 
thou  art  a  man,  I  never  fail'd  in  these  things  yet,  w'are  a 
man  that's  beaten  to  these  matters,  experience  is  a  certain 
conceal'd  thing  that  fails  not  :  pray  let  me  ask  you  one 
thing,  why  do  you  come  to  me  ? 

Cur.  Because  the  Letter  is  addrest  to  you,  being  the 
nearest  Justice. 

yust.     The  nearest  ?    is  that  all  ? 

Cur.  I  think  it  be  Sir,  I  would  be  loth  you  should  be 
the  wisest. 

yust.  Well  Sir,  as  it  is,  I  will  endeavour  in  it ;  yet  if 
it  had  come  to  me  by  name,  I  know  not,  but  I  think  it  had 
been  as  soon  dispatcht  as  by  another,  and  with  as  round  a 
wisdom,  I,  and  as  happily,  but  that's  all  one  :  I  have  born 
this  place  this  thirty  years,  and  upwards,  and  with  sufficient 
credit,  and  they  may  when  they  please,  know  me  better ; 
to  the  nearest  ?  well. 

Cur.  Sir,  it  is  not  my  fault,  for  had  I  known  you 
sooner — 

yust.     I  thank  you  Sir,  I  know  it. 

Cur.  I'll  be  sworn  you  should  have  plaid  for  [any] 
business  now. 

yust.  And  further,  they  have  specified  unto  me,  his 
Wife  is  sorely  suspecled  in  this  matter,  as  a  main  cause. 

Cur.  I  think  she  be  Sir,  for  no  other  cause  can  be  yet 
found. 

yust.  And  one  Mercury  a  traveller,  with  whom  they  say 
diredtty  she  is  run  away,  and  as  they  think  this  way. 

Cur.     I  knew  all  this  before. 

364 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 

Just.  Well  Sir,  this  Mercury  I  know,  and  his  breeding, 
a  neighbors  child  hard  by,  you  have  been  happy,  Sir,  in 
coming  hither. 

Cur.     Then  you  know  where  to  have  him,  Sir  ? 

Just.     I  do  Sir,  he  dwells  near  me. 

Cur.     I  doubt  your  Worship  dwels  near  a  knave  then. 

Just.     I  think  so  ;    pray  put  on  :    but  'tis  a  wonder 
To  see  how  graceless  people  are  now  given, 
And  how  base  virtue  is  accounted  with  them 
That  should  be  all  in  all,  as  says  a  wise  man. 

I  tell  you  Sir,  and  it  is  true,  that  there  have  been  such 
murthers,  and  of  late  days,  as  'twould  make  your  very  heart 
bleed  in  you,  and  some  of  them  as  I  shall  be  enabled,  I  will 
tell  you,  it  fell  out  of  late  days. 

Cur.     It  may  be  so,  but  will  it  please  you  to  proceed  in  this  ? 

Just.  An  honest  Weaver,  and  as  good  a  workman,  as 
e'er  shot  shuttle,  and  as  close  :  but  every  man  must  dye  ;  this 
honest  Weaver  being  a  little  mellow  in  his  Ale,  that  was 
the  evidence  verbatim^  Sir,  God  bless  the  mark,  sprung  his 
neck  just  in  this  place :  well  Jarvis,  thou  hadst  wrongs,  and 
if  I  live  some  of  the  best  shall  sweat  for't,  then  a  wench — 

Cur.     But  Sir,  you  have  forgot  my  business. 

Just.  A  sober  pretty  maid  about  17.  they  say,  certainly, 
howsoever  'tis  shuffled,  she  burst  her  self,  and  fondly,  if  it 
be  so,  with  Furmety  at  a  Churching,  but  I  think  the  Devil 
had  another  agent  in't :  either  of  which,  if  I  can  catch,  shall 
stretch  for't. 

Cur.  This  is  a  mad  Justice  that  will  hang  the  Devil ; 
but  I  would  you  would  be  short  in  this,  before  that  other 
notice  can  be  given. 

Just.  Sir,  I  will  doe  discreetly  what  is  fitting ;  what, 
Antonio  ? 

Ant.  within.     Your  Worship. 

Just.  Put  on  your  best  coat,  and  let  your  fellow  Mark 
goe  to  the  Constable,  and  bid  him  aid  me  with  all  the  speed 
he  can,  and  all  the  power,  and  provide  Pen  and  Ink  to  take 
their  confessions,  and  my  long  sword  :  I  cannot  tell  what 
danger  we  may  meet  with  ;  you'll  go  with  us  ? 

Cur.  Yes,  what  else  ?  I  came  to  that  end  to  accuse  both 
parties. 

365 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  v 

Just.     May  I  crave  what  you  are  ? 

Cur.  Faith  Sir,  one  that  to  be  known  would  not  profit 
you,  more  than  a  near  kinsman  of  the  dead  Antonio's. 

Just.  'Tis  well,  I  am  sorry  for  my  neighbor,  truly,  that 
he  had  no  more  grace,  'twill  kill  his  Mother  ;  she's  a  good 
old  woman,  will  you  walk  in  ?  I'll  but  put  my  cloak  on,  and 
my  chain  off,  and  a  clean  band,  and  have  my  shooes  blackt 
over,  and  shift  my  Jerkin,  and  we'll  to  our  business,  and  you 
shall  see  how  I  can  bolt  these  matters. 

Cur.     As  soon  as't  please  you,  Sir.  [Exit. 

Enter  Valerio,  and  Richardo. 

Vol.     This  is  the  place  ;    here  did  I  leave  the  Maid 
Alone  last  night,  drying  her  tender  eyes, 
Uncertain  what  to  do,  and  yet  desirous 
To  have  me  gone. 

Rich.  How  rude  are  all  we  men, 
That  take  the  name  of  Civil  to  our  selves  ! 
If  she  had  set  her  foot  upon  an  earth 
Where  people  live  that  we  call  barbarous  ; 
Though  they  had  had  no  house  to  bring  her  to, 
They  would  have  spoil'd  the  glory,  that  the  spring 
Has  deckt  the  trees  in,  and  with  willing  hands 
Have  torn  their  branches  down,  and  every  man 
Would  have  become  a  builder  for  her  sake. 
What  time  left  you  her  there  ? 

VaL     I  left  her,  when  the  Sun  had  so  much  to  sett, 
As  he  is  now  got  from  his  place  of  rise. 

Rich.     So  near  the  night  she  could  not  wander  far  ; 
Fair  Viola  \ 

VaL     It  is  in  vain  to  call,  she  sought  a  house 
Without  all  question. 

Rich.     Peace,  fair  Viola  ? 
Fair  Viola  ?    who  should  have  left  her  here 
On  such  a  ground  ?    if  you  had  meant  to  lose  her, 
You  might  have  found  there  were  no  ecchos  here 
To  take  her  name,  and  carry  it  about, 
When  her  true  Lover  came  to  mourn  for  her, 
Till  all  the  neighboring  valleys  and  .the  hills, 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 


Resounded 

And  such  a  place, 

You  should  have  chose  — 

You  pity  us  because 

The  dew  a  little  wets  our  feet, 

Unworthy  far  to  seek  her  in  the  wet  ; 

And  what  becomes  of  her  ?    where  wandred  she, 

With  two  showers  raining  on  her,  from  her  eyes 

Continually,  abundantly,  from  which 

There's  neither  tree  nor  house  to  shelter  her  j 

Will  you  go  with  me  to  travel  ? 

Val.     Whither  ? 

Rich.     Over  all  the  world. 

Val.     No  by  my  faith,  I'll  make  a  shorter  journey 
When  I  do  travel. 

Rich.     But  there's  no  hope 
To  gain  my  end  in  any  shorter  way. 

Pal.     Why,  what's  your  end  ? 

Rich.     It  is  to  search  the  earth, 
Till  we  have  found  two  in  the  shapes  of  men, 
As  wicked  as  our  selves. 

Pal.     'Twere  not  so  hard  to  find  out  those. 

Rich.     Why,  if  we  find  them  out, 
It  were  the  better,  for  what  brave  villany, 
Might  we  four  do  ?    we  wou'd  not  keep  together  : 
For  every  one  has  treachery  enough 
For  twenty  countreys,  one  should  trouble  Asia, 
Another  should  sow  strife  in  Africa  ; 
But  you  should  play  the  knave,  in  at  home  in  Europe, 
And  for  America  let  me  alone. 

Val.     Sir,  I  am  honester, 

Than  you  know  how  to  be,  and  can  no  more 
Be  wrong'd,  but  I  shall  find   my  self  aright. 

Rich.     If  you  had  any  spark  of  honesty, 
You  would  not  think  that  honester  than  I, 
Were  a  praise  high  enough  to  serve  your  turn  : 
If  men  were  commonly  so  bad  as  I, 
Thieves  would  be  put  in  Calendars  for  Saints  ; 
And  bones  of  murderers  would  work  miracles. 
I  am  a  kind  of  knave,  of  knave  so  much 

367 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  v 

There  is  betwixt  me,  and  the  vilest  else — 
But  the  next  place  of  all  to  mine  is  yours. 

Enter  two  Milk-maids  and  Viola  with  pails. 

Val.     That  last  is  she,  'tis  she. 

Rich.     Let  us  away,  we  shall  infect  her,  let  her  have  the 
wind, 
And  we  will  kneel  down  here. 

Vio.     Wenches  away,  for  here  are  men. 

Val.     Fair  maid,  I  pray  you  stay. 

Vio.     Alas,  agen  ?  (go. 

Rich.     Why  do  you  lay  hold  on  her  ?     I  pray  heartily  let  her 

Pal.     With  all  my  heart,  I  do  not  mean  to  hurt  her. 

Rich.     But  stand  away  then  for  the  purest  bodies 
Will  soonest  take  infection,  stand  away, 
But  for  infecting  her  my  self,  by  heaven, 
I  would  come  there,  and  beat  thee  further  off. 

Vio.     I  know  that  voice  and  face. 

Val.  You  are  finely  mad,  g[o]dbwy  Sir,  now  you  are  here 
together,  I'll  leave  [y]ou  so,  god  send  you  good  luck,  both  ; 
when  you  are  soberer,  you'll  give  me  thanks.  [Exit. 

Madg.     Wilt  thou  go  milk  ?   come. 

Nan.     Why  dost  not  come  ? 

Madge.     She  nods,  she's  asleep. 

Nan.     What  wert  up  so  early  ? 

Madge.  I  think  yon  man's  mad  to  kneel  there,  nay 
[come]  away,  uds  body,  Nan^  help,  she  looks  black  i'th  face, 
She's  in  a  sound. 

Nan.     And  you  be  a  man,  come  hither,  and  help  a  woman. 

Rich.     Come  thither  ?    you  are  a  fool. 

Nan.     And  you  a  knave  and  a  beast  that  you  are. 

Rich.     Come  hither,  'twas  my  being  now  so  near, 
That  made  [her]  swound,  and  you  are  wicked  people, 
Or  you  wou'd  do  so  too  ;    my  venom  eyes 
Strike  innocency  dead  at  such  a  distance, 
Here  I'll  kneel,  for  this  is  out  of  distance. 

Nan.  Th'art  a  prating  ass,  there's  no  goodness  in  thee, 
I  warrant,  how  dost  thou  ? 

Vio.     Why?    well. 

Madge.     Art  thou  able  to  go  ? 

368 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 

Pio.     No,  pray  go  you  and  milk,  if  I  be  able  to  come 
I'll  follow  you,  if  not,  I'll  sit  here, 
Till  you  come  back. 

Nan.     I  am  loth  to  leave  thee  here  with  yon  wild  fool. 

Vio.  I  know  him  well,  I  warrant  thee  he  will  not  hurt 
me. 

Madge.     Come  then  Nan.  [Exeunt  Maids. 

Rich.     How  do  you  ?   be  not  fearfull,  for  I  hold  my  hands 
Before  my  mouth,  and  speak,  and  so 
My  breath  can  never  blast  you. 

Vio.  'Twas  enough  to  use  me  ill,  though  you  had  never 
sought  me  to  mock  me,  why  kneel  you  so  far  off,  were  not 
that  gesture  better  us'd  in  prayer,  had  I  dealt  so  with  you, 
I  should  not  sleep,  till  [God]  and  you  had  both  forgiven 
me. 

Rich.     I  do  not  mock,  nor  lives  there  such  a  villain 
That  can  do  any  thing  contemptible 
To  you,  but  I  do  kneel,  because  it  is 
An  action  very  fit  and  reverent, 
In  presence  of  so  pure  a  creature, 
And  so  far  off,  as  fearful  to  offend, 
One  too  much  wrong'd  already. 

Vio.     You  confess  you  did  the  fault,  yet  scorn  to  come, 
So  far  as  hither,  to  ask  pardon  for't ; 
Which  I  could  willingly  afford  to  come, 
To  you  to  grant,  good  Sir  if  you  have 
A  better  love,  may  you  be  blest  together. 
She  shall  not  wish  you  better  than  I  will, 
I   but  offend  you,  there  are  all  the  Jewels 
I  stole,  and  all  the  love  I  ever  had, 
I  leave  behind  with  you,  I'll  carry  none 
To  give  another  may  the  next  maid  you  try 
Love  you  no  worse,  nor  be  no  worse  than  I. 

Rich.     Do  not  leave  me  yet  for  all  my  fault, 
Search  out  the  next  things  to  impossible, 
And  put  me  on  them  when  they  are  effected, 
I   may  with  better  modesty  receive 
Forgiveness  from  you. 

Vio.      I  will  set  no  pennance, 
To  gain  the  great  forgiveness  you  desire  : 

B.-F.  vin.  A  A  369 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  v 

But  to  come   hither  and   take  me  and   it, 

Or  else  I'll  come  and   beg,  so  you  will  grant, 

That  you  will  be  content  to  be  forgiven. 

Rich.     Nay,  I  will  come  since  you   [will]   have   it  so, 
And  since  you  please  to  pardon   me  I  hope 
Free  from  infection,  here  I  am   by  you  ; 
A  careless  man,  a  breaker  of  my  faith, 
A  lothsome  drunkard  ;    and   in  that  wild  fury  : 
A  hunter  after  whores  :    I  do  beseech  you, 
To  pardon  all  these  faults,  and  take  me   up 
An   honest,  sober,  and  a  faithful  man. 

Vio.    For  [gods]  sake,  urge  your  faults  no  more,  but  mend, 
All  the  forgiveness  I  can  make  you,  is, 
To  love  you,  which  I  will  do,  and  desire 
Nothing  but  love  again,  which  if  I  have  not 
Yet  I  will  love  you  still. 

Rich.     Oh  Women,  that  some  one  of  you  will  take, 
An  everlasting  pen  into  your  hands  : 
And  grave  in  paper  which  the  writ  shall  make, 
More  lasting  than  the  marble  Monuments, 
Your  matchless  virtues  to  posterities : 
Which  the  defective  race  of  envious  man, 
Strive  to  conceal. 

Vio.     Methinks  I  would  not  now  for  any  thing, 
But  you  had  mist  me,  I  have  made  a  story, 
Will  serve  to  waste  many  a  winters  fire 
When  we  are  old,  I'll  [tell]  my  daughters  then, 
The  miseries  their  Mother  had  in  love  : 
And  say,  my  girls  be  wiser,  yet  I  would  not 
Have  had  more  wit  my  self,  take  up  those  Jewels, 
For  I  think  I  hear  my  fellows  coming. 

Enter  the  Milk-maids  with  their  pails. 

Madge.     How  dost  thou  now  ?  (home  ? 

Vio.     Why,  very  well  I  thank  you,  'tis  late,  shall  I  haste 
Nan.     I  prethee  we  shall  be  shent  soundly. 
Madge.     Why  does  that  railing  man  goe  with  us  ? 
Pio.     I  prethee  speak  well  of.  him,  on  my  word, 
He's  an  honest  man. 

370 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 

Nan.     There  was  never  any  so  one's  complexion,  a  Gentle- 
man ? 
Tde  be  asham'd  to  have  such  a  foul  mouth.  [Exeunt. 

Enter  Mother^  Alexander,  Andrugio,  and  his 

man  Rowland. 

Moth.     How  now  Alexander,  what  Gentleman  is  this  ? 

Alex.  Indeed  forsooth  I  know  not,  I  found  him  at  the 
market  full  of  woe,  crying  a  lost  daughter,  and  telling  all  her 
tokens  to  the  people ;  and  what  you  wot  ?  by  all  subscription 
in  the  world,  it  should  be  our  new  Maid  Melvia,  one  would 
little  think  it,  therefore  I  was  bold  to  tell  him  of  her  Mistriss. 

Moth.  Melvia  ?  It  cannot  be,  fool,  alas  you  know  she 
is  a  poor  wench,  and  I  took  her  in  upon  mere  charity. 

And.  So  seem'd  my  daughter  when  she  went  away,  as 
she  had  made  her  self. 

Moth.     What  stature  was  your  child  of,  Sir  ? 

And.     Not  high,  and  of  a  brown  complexion, 
Her    Hair    aborn,    a    round    face,   which    some    friends    that 
flattered  me,  would  say  'twould  be  a  good  one. 

Alex.     This  is  still  Melvia,  Mistriss,  that's  the  truth  on't. 

Moth.     It  may  be  so,  I'll  promise  you. 

Alex.  Well,  goe  thy  ways,  the  flower  of  our  Town,  for 
a  hand  and  a  foot,  I  shall  never  see  thy  fellow. 

Moth.  But  had  she  not  such  toyes,  as  Bracelets,  Rings,  and 
Jewels  ? 

And.  She  was  something  bold  indeed,  to  take  such  things 
that  night  she  left  me. 

Moth.     Then  belike  she  run  away  ? 

And.  Though  she  be  one  I  love,  I  dare  not  lye,  she  did 
indeed. 

Moth.     What  think  you  of  this  Jewel  ? 

And.  Yes,  this  was  one  of  them,  and  this  was  mine, 
you  have  made  me  a  new  man,  I  thank  you  for  it. 

Moth.  Nay,  and  she  be  given  to  filching,  there  is  your 
Jewel,  I  am  clear  on't :  but  by  your  leave,  Sir,  you  shall 
answer  me  for  what  is  lost  since  she  came  hither,  I  can  tell 
you,  there  lye  things  scattering  in  every  place  about  the 
house. 

Alex.     As  I  am  virtuous,  I  have  the  lyingst  old  Gentle- 

AA2  371 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  v 

woman  to  my  Mistriss,  and  the  most  malicious,  the  devil  a 
good  word  will  she  give  a  servant,  that's  her  old  rule  ;  and 
God  be  thanked,  they'll  give  her  as  few,  there  is  perfect 
love  on  both  sides,  it  yearns  my  heart  to  [heare]  the  wench 
misconstrued,  a  careful  soul  she  is,  I'll  be  sworn  for  her,  and 
when  she's  gone,  let  them  say  what  they  will,  they  may  cast 
their  caps  at  such  another. 

And.     What  you  have  lost  by  her,  with  all  my  heart 
I'll  see  you  double  paid  for,  you  have  sav'd 
With  your  kind  pity,  two  that  must  not  live 
Unless  it  be  to  thank  you  ;    take  this  Jewel, 
This  strikes  off  none  of  her  offences,  Mistriss, 
Would  I  might  see  her. 

Moth.  Alexander,  run,  and  bid  her  make  haste  home, 
she's  at  the  milking  Close  ;  but  tell  her  not  by  any  means 
who's  here,  I  know  she'll  be  too  fearful. 

Alex.  Well,  we'll  have  a  posset  yet  at  parting,  that's  my 
comfort,  and  one  round,  or  else  I'll  lose  my  Will.  [Exit. 

And.  You  shall  find  Silvio,  Liberia,  and  Pedro  enquiring 
for  the  Wench  at  the  next  Town,  tell  them  she  is  found, 
and  where  I  am,  and  with  the  favor  of  this  Gentlewoman, 
desire  them  to  come  hither. 

Moth.     I  pray  do,  they  shall  be  all  welcome.       [Exit  Serv. 

Enter  Justice,  Curio,  and  Mark. 

Just.  By  your  leave  forsooth,  you  shall  see  me  find  the 
parties  by  a  slight. 

Moth.     Who's  that,  Mr.  Justice  ?    how  do  you,  Sir  ? 

Just.     Why,  very  well,  and  busie,  where's  your  Son  ? 

Moth.     He's  within,  Sir. 

Just.  Hum,  and  how  does  the  young  woman  my  Cosin, 
that  came  down  with  him. 

Moth.     She's  above,  as  a  woman  in  her  case  may  be. 

Just.  You  have  confest  it?  then  sirrah  call  in  the  Officers: 
she's  no  Cosin  of  mine;  a  mere  trick  to  discover  all. 

Moth.     To  discover  ?    what  ? 

Enter  Mark  and  Officers. 

Just.  You  shall  know  that  anon  :  I  think  [you]  have  over- 
reached you ;  oh  welcome,  enter  the  house,  and  by  virtue 

372 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 

of  my  warrant  which  you  have  there,  seize  upon  the  bodily 
persons  of  those  whose  names  are  there  written,  to  wit,  one 
Mercury,  and  the  wife  of  one  Antonio. 

Moth.     For  what. 

Just.     Away  I  say, 
This  Gentleman  shall  certifie  you  for  what.         [Ex.  Officer. 

Moth.  He  can  accuse  my  Son  of  nothing,  he  came  from 
travel  but  within  these  two  days. 

Just.     There  hangs  a  tale. 

Moth.  I  should  be  sorry  this  should  fall  out  at  any  time  : 
but  especially  now  Sir  ;  will  you  favour  me  so  much,  as  to 
let  me  know  of  what  you  accuse  him  ? 

Cur.     Upon  suspition  of  murther. 

Moth.     Murther  ?    I  defie  thee. 

Cur.     I  pray  God  he  may  prove  himself  innocent. 

Just.  Fie,  say  not  so,  you  shew  your  self  to  be  no  good 
Common-wealths  man  :  for  the  more  are  hang'd  the  better  'tis 
for  the  Common-wealth. 

Moth.     By  this  rule  you  were  best  hang  your  self. 

Just.  I  forgive  your  honest  mirth  ever  :  Oh  welcome, 
welcome  Mark. 

Enter  Mark  and  Officers,  with  Mercury  and  the  Wife. 

Your  Pen,  Ink,  and   Paper,  to  take  their  examinations. 

Mer.     Why  do  you  pull  me  so  ?      I'll  go  alone. 

Just.  Let  them  stand,  let  them  stand  quietly,  whilst  they 
are  examined  ? 

Wife.     What  will  you  examine  us  of  ? 

Just.     Of  Antonio's  murther. 

Mer.     Why,  he  was  my  friend. 

Wife.     He  was  my  Husband. 

Just.  The  more  shame  for  you  both  ;  Mark,  your  Pen 
and  Ink. 

Moth.  Pray  God  all  be  well,  I  never  knew  any  of  these 
travellers  come  to  good  ;  I  beseech  you,  Sir,  be  favourable 
to  my  Son. 

Just.  Gentlewoman,  hold  you  content,  I  would  it  were 
come  to  that  ! 

Mer.     For  gods  sake  mother,  why  kneel  you    to   such  a 

373 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  v 

pig-brib'd   fellow  ?    he  has  surfeited  of  Geese,  and  they  have 
put  him  into  a  fit  of  Justice  ;    let  him  do  his  worst. 

yust.     Is  your  paper  ready  ? 

Mark.     I  am  ready,  Sir. 

Enter  Antonio. 

yust.  Accuse  them,  Sir,  I  command  thee  to  lay  down 
accusations  against  these  persons,  in  behalf  of  the  State,  and 
first  look  upon  the  parties  to  be  accusM,  and  deliver  your 
name. 

Cur.     My  name  is  Curio,  my  murthered  kinsman 
If  he  were  living  now,  I  should  not  know  him, 
'Tis  so  long  since  we  saw  one  another. 

Ant.     My  Cosin  Curio  ? 

Cur.  But  thus  much  from  the  mouths  of  his  servants,  and 
others,  whose  examinations  I  have  in  writing  about  me,  I 
can  accuse  them  of;  this  Mercury,  the  last  night,  but  this 
last,  lay  in  Antonio's  house,  and  in  the  night  he  rose,  raising 
Antonio,  where  privately  they  were  in  talk  an  hour,  to  what 
end  I  know  not :  but  of  likelyhood,  finding  Antonio's  house 
not  a  fit  place  to  murder  him  in,  he  suffered  him  to  go  to 
bed  again,  but  in  the  morning  early,  he  train'd  him  I  think 
forth,  after  which  time  he  never  saw  his  home  ;  his  cloaths 
were  found  near  the  place  where  Mercury  was,  and  the  people 
at  first  denyed  they  saw  him  :  but  at  last  he  made  a  friv[o]l- 
ous  tale,  that  there  he  shifted  himself  into  a  Footmans  habit : 
but  in  short,  the  next  hour  this  woman  went  to  Mercury,  and 
in  her  Coach  they  posted  hither  ;  true  accusations,  I  have  no 
more,  and  I  will  make  none. 

yust.  No  more  ?  we  need  no  more,  sirrah,  be  drawing 
their  Mittimus  before  we  hear  their  answer.  What  say  you 
Sir  ?  are  you  guilty  of  this  murther  ? 

Mer.     No  Sir. 

yust.  Whether  you  are  or  no,  confess,  it  will  be  the 
better  for  you. 

Mer.  If  I  were  guilty,  your  Rhetorick  could  not  fetch 
it  forth  :  but  though  I  am  innocent,  I  confess,  that  if  I 
were  a  stander  by,  these  circ[u]mstances  urg'd,  which  are  true, 
would  make  me  doubtless  believe  the  accused  parties,  to  be 
guilty. 

374 


Sc.  i  THE    COXCOMB 

Just.  Write  down,  that  he  being  a  stander  by  ;  for  so 
you  see  he  is,  doth  doubtlesly  believe  the  accused  parties, 
which  is  himself  to  be  guilty. 

Mer.     I  say  no  such  thing. 

Just.     Write  it  down  I  say,  we'll  try  that. 

Mer.  I  care  not  what  you  write,  pray  God  you  did  not 
kill  him  for  my  love,  though  I  am  free  from  this,  we  both 
deserve — 

Wife.  Govern  your  tongue  I  pray  you,  all  is  well,  my 
Husband  lives,  I  know  it,  and  I  see  him. 

Just.  They  whisper,  sever  them  quickly  I  say,  Officers, 
why  do  you  let  them  prompt  one  another,  Gentlewoman, 
what  say  you  to  this,  are  not  you  guilty  ? 

Wife.     No,  as  I  hope  for  mercy. 

Just.  But  are  not  those  circumstances  true,  that  this 
Gentleman  hath  so  shortly  and  methodically  delivered  ? 

Wife.     They  are,  and  what  you  do  with  me,  I  care  not, 
Since  he  is  dead,  in  whom  was  all  my  care  : 
You  knew  him  not. 

Just.  No,  an't  been  better  for  you  too,  and  you  had 
never  known  him. 

Wife.     Why  then  you  did  not  know  the  worlds  chief  joy, 
His  face  so  manly  as  it  had  been  made, 
To  fright  the  world,  yet  he  so  sweetly  temper'd  ; 
That  he  would  make  himself  a  natural  fool, 
To  do  a  noble  kind[n]ess  for  a  friend. 
He  was  a  man  whose  name  I'll  not  out-live, 
Longer  than  heaven,  whose  Will  must  be  obey'd  ; 
Will  have  me  do. 

Ant.     And  I  will  quit  thy  kindness. 

Just.  Before  me,  she  has  made  the  tears  stand  in  mine 
eyes,  but  I  must  be  austere,  Gentlewoman  ;  you  must  con- 
fess this  murder. 

Wife.  I  cannot,  Sir,  I  did  it  not,  but  I  desire  to  see  those 
examinations  which  this  Gentleman  acknowledges  to  have 
about  him,  for  but  late  last  night  I  receiv'd  Letters  from 
the  City,  yet  I  heard  of  no  confession,  then. 

Just.  You  shall  see  them  time  enough  I  warrant  you,  but 
Letters  you  say  you  had,  where  are  those  Letters  ? 

Wife.     Sir,  they  are  gone. 

375 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  v 

Just.     Gone  ?    whither  are  they  gone  ? 
How  have  you   dispos'd  of  'em  ? 

Wife.  Why  Sir,  they  are  for  womens  matters,  and  so  I 
use  'em. 

Just.     Who  writ  'em  ? 

Wife.     A  man  of  mine. 

Just.     Who  brought  'em  ? 

Wife.     A  Post. 

Just.  A  Post  ?  there  is  some  great  haste  sure,  aha,  where 
is  that  Post  ? 

Wife.     Sir,  there  he  stands. 

Just.  Does  he  so  ?  bring  hither  that  Post,  I  am  afraid  that 
Post  will  prove  a  knave  ;  come  hither  Post,  what  ?  what  can 
you  say  concerning  the  murder  of  Antonio  ? 

Ant.     What's  that  to  you  ? 

Just.  Oh  Post,  you  have  no  answer  ready,  have  you  ?  I'll 
have  one  from  you. 

Ant.  You  shall  have  no  more  from  me  than  you  have; 
you  examine  an  honest  Gentleman  and  Gentlewoman  here, 
'tis  pitty  such  fools  as  you  should  be  i'th  Commission. 

Just.  Say  you  so  Post,  take  away  that  Post,  whip  him 
and  bring  him  again  quickly,  I'll  hamper  you  Post. 

Mer.  'Tis  Antonio,  I  know  him  now  as  well ;  what  an 
irregular  fool  is  this  ! 

Ant.     Whip  me  ?    hold  off. 

Wife.  Oh  good  Sir  whip  him,  by  his  murmuring  he  should 
know  something  of  my  Husbands  death  ;  that  may  quit  me, 
for  gods  sake  fetch't  out. 

Just.     Whip  him  I  say. 

Ant.     Who  is't  dares  whip  me  now  ? 

Wife.     Oh  my  lov'd  Husband. 

Mer.  My  most  worthy  friend  ?  where  have  you  been  so 
long  ? 

Ant.     I  cannot  speak  for  joy. 

Just.  Why,  what's  the  matter  now,  and  shall  not  Law 
then  have  her  course  ? 

Andra.     It  shall  h[a]ve  no  other  course  than  it  has  I  think. 

Just.  It  shall  have  other  course  before  I  go,  or  I'll  beat 
my  brains,  and  I  say  it  was  not  honestly  done  of  him  to 
discover  himself  before  the  parties  accus'd  were  executed, 

376 


Sc.  i  THE  COXCOMB 

that  Law  might  have  had  her  course,  for  then  the  kingdom 
flourishes. 

Ant.  But  such  a  wife  as  thou,  had  never  any  man,  and 
such  a  friend  as  he,  believe  me  wife,  shall  never  be  [a]  good 
wife,  love  my  friend,  friend  love  my  wife,  hark  friend. 

Just.  Mark,  if  we  can  have  nothing  to  do,  you  shall  swear 
the  peace  of  some  body. 

Mark.     Yes  Sir. 

Ant.  By  my  troth  I  am  sorry  my  wife  is  so  obstinate, 
sooth,  if  I  could  yet  do  thee  any  good,  I  wou'd,  faith  I 
wou'd. 

Mer.     I  thank  you  Sir,  I  have  lost  that  passion. 

Ant.     Cosin   Curio,  you  and  I  must  be  better  acquainted. 

Cur.     It  is  my  wish,  Sir. 

Ant.  I  should  not  have  known  you  neither,  'tis  so  long 
since  we  saw,  we  were  but  children  then  :  but  you  have 
shew'd  your  self  an  honest  man  to  me. 

Cur.     I  would  be  ever  so. 

Enter  Richardo  and  Viola. 

Moth.     Look  you,  who's  there. 

And.     Say  nothing  to  me,  for  thy  peace  is  made. 

Rich.     Sir,  I  can  nothing  say, 
But  that  you  are  her  Father,  you  can  both 
Not  only  pardon,  when  you  have  a  wrong, 
But  love  where  you  have  most  injury. 

Just.  I  think  I  shall  hear  of  no  hanging  this  year,  there's 
A  Tinker  and  a  Whore  yet,  the  Cryer  said,  that  rob'd  her, 
and  are  in  prison,  I  hope  they  shall  be  hang'd. 

And.     No  truly  Sir,  they  have  broke  prison. 

Just.     'Tis  no  matter,  then  [t]he  Jaylor  shall  be  hang'd. 

And.  You  are  deceiv'd  in  that  too,  Sir,  'twas  known  to 
be  against  his  will,  and  he  hath  got  his  pardon,  I  think  for 
nothing,  but  if  it  doth  cost  him  any  thing,  I'll  pay  it. 

Just.     Mark,  up  with  your  papers,  away. 

Mer.  Oh  you  shall  stay  dinner,  I  have  a  couple  of  brawl- 
ing neighbors,  that  I'll  assure  you  will  not  agree,  and  you  shall 
have  the  hearing  of  their  matter. 

Just.     With  all  my  heart. 

Mer.     Go,  Gentlemen,  go  in. 

AAS  377 


THE    COXCOMB  ACT  v 

Rich.      Oh   Viola,  that   no  succeeding  age, 
Might  loose  the  memory  of  what  thou  wert, 
But  such  an  overswayed  Sex  is  yours, 
That  all  the  virtuous  actions  you  can  do, 
Are  but  as  men  will  call  them  ;    and  I  swear, 
'Tis  my  belief,  that  women   want  but  ways  ; 
To  praise  their  deeds,  but  men  want  deeds  to  praise. 

[Exeunt  omnes. 

EPILOGUE. 

' r  I  ^  Is  ended,  but  my  hopes  and  fears  begin, 

JL    Nor  can  it  be  imputed  as  a  sin 
In  me  to  wish  it  favour,  if  this  night, 
To  the  judicious  it  hath  giv'n  delight. 
I  have  my  ends,  and  may  such  for  their  grace, 
Vouchsafed  to  this,  find  theirs  in  every  place. 


378 


APPENDIX. 


In  the  following  references  to  the  text  the  lines  are  numbered  from  the  top  of  the 
page,  including  titles,  acts,  stage  directions,  &°c. ,  but  not,  of  course,  the 
headline  or  mere  '•rules.'1  Where,  as  in  the  lists  of  Persons  Represented, 
there  are  double  columns,  the  right-hand  column  is  numbered  after  the  left. 

It  has  not  been  thought  necessary  to  record  the  correction  of  every  turned 
letter  nor  the  substitution  of  marks  of  interrogation  for  marks  of  exclamation 
and  vice  versA.  Full-stops  have  been  silently  inserted  at  the  ends  of  speeches 
and  each  fresh  speaker  has  been  given  the  dignity  of  a  fresh  line :  in  the 
double-columned  folio  the  speeches  are  frequently  run  on.  Misprints  in  the 
Quartos  and  the  First  Folio  are  recorded  when  they  appear  to  be  interesting. 
A  word  or  two  from  the  printed  text  is  attached  to  the  variants  recorded  below 
in  cases  where  the  variant,  by  itself,  would  not  be  sufficiently  clear.  Altered 
punctuation  is  shown,  usually,  by  printing  the  old  punctuation  between  the 
preceding  and  following  words. 


A  =  First  folio.     B  =  Second  folio. 
THE    WOMANS    PRIZE. 

p.  i,  11.  5-29.     Not  in  A 

p.  3,  1.  13.     B]  Mar.         1.  36.     B]  breeches  out  of  fear, 
p.  5,  1.  27.     B]  Rom. 
p.  6,  1.  6.     A]  Fox  and  Moroso 
p.  7,  1.  26.     A]  have  I 

p.  8,  1.  5.     A]  up  rowse        1.  7.     A]  o'  th  longs 
p.  10,  1.  38.     B]  Wonting 
p.  ii,  1.  19.     A]  'Cheere         1.  35.     B]/0/. 
p.  12,  1.  22.     A]  home  at 
p.  14,  1.  13.     A]  Spinala's 

p.  15,  1.  20.     B]  saying  from  1.  23.     B]  list,  lie  1.  29.     B]  as'  tfol 

wols         1.  34.     B]  Bug-words 

p.  16,  1.  28.     B]  accept         1.  32.     A]  i'ld 

379 


APPENDIX 

p.  18,  1.  20.     B]  Mar. 

p.  19,  1.  2.     A]  all  thy         1.  23.     A]  Jewry 

p.  20,  1.  i.     A  and  B]  shall  believe         1.  9.     B]  speed?         1.  18.     B]  so. 

p.  21,  1.  13.     B]  you 

p.  22,  1.  3.     B]  Stranger,  than 

p.  23,  1.  26.     A  omits}  is 

p.  24,  1.  8.     B]  him.         1.  10.     B]  it ; 

p.  25,  1.  14.     A  omits}  Mor. 

p.  26,  1.  36.     B]  selves 

p.  27,  1.  26.     B  omits}  most         1.  27.     B]  Coughs. 

p.  28,  1.  10.     A]  doe  th'em         1.  21.     A]  Found 

p.  29,  1.  32.     B]  Bow.         1.  35.     A] 

Row.     Thou  hast  heard  I  am  sure  of  Esculapius. 
So  were  etc. 

p.  30,  1.  14.     B]  Row.     Thou  1.  19.     B]  be  1.  34.     B]  Raw. 

1.  39.     B  omits}  doe 

p.  32,  1.  33.     B]  aad 

P-  33>  1-  5-     B]  Godheads  1.  40.     A  repeats  here  11.  16-25  on  p.  29, 

with  the  following  alterations'} 

Enter  three  mayds,  at  severall  doors. 
goes  the  businesse 

p.  34,  1.  i.     B]  Tertia. 

p.  35,  1.  8.     B]  Heaven  1.  16.     B]  the  Kingdom  11.  22-36.     Not 

in  A 

p.  36,  11.  3,  4.     A  omits}  Citizens  and  Countrey  women. 

p.  37,  1.  14.     B  omits'}  then  1.  22.     A]  I  lie  1.  40.     A  and  B] 

Plackets. 

p.  38,  1.  i.     B]  Dary         11.  30,  31.     Not  in  B 

p.  39,  1.  5.     A  and  B]  importun'd.          1.  24.     B]  down  the          1.  29.     B] 
commanded 

p.  40,  1.  i.     B]  Petro.         1.  17.     B]  Mistrisses 

p.  41,  1.  4.     B]  Tro. 

p.  42,  1.  35.     A  and  B]  leave. 

p.  43,  1.  15.     B]/<w.         1.  31.     B]  Payers 

p.  44,  1.  7.    R]Jac.        1.  10.    A]  Bagget       1.  12.    A]  a  sober       1.  31.    A] 

Cinque-pace 
Dame  tosse  and  Butter,  had  he  Bob  too? 

P-  45,  I-  33-     BJ  Pains 

p.  46,  1.  34.     A]  plush,  perfum'd,  and  purffle     B]  purffle,  1.  38.     B] 

hangings. 

P'  47  >  !•  31-     A  omits}  you         1.  36.     A]  built 

p.  50,  1.  7.     A]  love  too         1.  31.     A]  there's  no  gewgaws 


P.  5i.  1 

•  33- 

B]  Woman. 

P-  53,  1 

.  23. 

A]  Heaven 

380 

THE  ISLAND  PRINCESS 


1.  8.     B]  two        1.  33. 
1.  6.     B]  Eeel 


A]  get  dozen 


1.  39.    B  omits  bracket        1.  40.    A]  dogge-latch 


1.  19.     A]  can  hate         1.  26.     A  omits}  my 
1.  24.     B]  'cut 


p.  56,  1.  14.  A  omits']  a 

p.  57,  1.  5.  A]  dunhill 

p.  58,  1.  i.  B]  would 

p.  61,  1.  24.  A]  these 

p.  62,  1.  34.  B]  Maid. 

p.  66,  1.  ii.  B]  pounds 

p.  67,  1.  34.  B]  Exunt 

p.  68,  1.  6.  B  omits}  feare 

p.  69,  1.  1 8.  A]  by-lowes 

p.  70,  1.  7.  B  omits}  again 

p.  71,  1.  8.  B]  Woman. 

p.  72,  1.  26.  B]  signs. 

p.  73,  1.  6.  B]  Petrn.         1.  29.     A]  morall 

P-  75>  !•  15-  A]  new  adventure         1.  16.     A]  us  nothing 

p.  76,  1.  9.  B]  Catayna 

p.  78,  1.  4.  A]  Ha's 

p.  79,  1.  34.  B  omits}  ,  you 

p.  80,  l.i.  B]  pettish         1.  23.     B  omits}  God 

p.  8 1,  1.  33.  A  omits}  Exeunt 

p.  83,  1.  4.  B]  come,  exceed 

p.  85,  1.  28.  B]  Fadding         1.  31.     A]  seagly 

p.  86,  1.  12.  B]  same.         1.  37.     A]  had  his 

p.  89,  1.  6.    A]  home  since,  since  ye         1.  15.    A]  thy  bread 
thy  teeth         1.  33.     B]  Pctro        1.  36.     B  omits}  done 

p.  90,  1.  2.     B] 


1.  1 6.     A] 


THE    ISLAND    PRINCESS. 


B]  surprize.         1.  24.     B]  tightly 


p.  91,  11.  3-42.     Omitted  in  A 

p.  92,  1.  7.     B]  find.         1.  12. 

P-  93)  1-  35-     B  omits}  weares 

p.  94,  1.  23.     B]  since 

p.  95,  1.  14.     A]  'is  a 

p.  98,  1.  18.     A]  a  tenant 

p.  100,  1.  24.     B]  And         11.  28,  29.     B  omits  stage  direction 

p.  101,  1.  5.     A]  Let  my 

p.  103,  1.  9.     A]  There  they  should  lye  as  miseries         1.  13.     B]  will 

p.  104,  1.  2.     B]  this         1.  14.     A]  accept  your  prisoner 

p.  105,  1.  31.     A]  Clod  with 

p.  107,  1.  20.     A  omits}  and 

p.  108,  1.  31.     B  omits}  her 


38' 


APPENDIX 


p- 
p- 

p- 
p- 
p- 

p- 
i.  28. 

p- 


p.  log,    .  i.     A]  holds  my 

p.  no,    .  10.     B]  men  do  to 

p.  in,    .6.     B]  begun         1.  30.     A  omits  one]  that 

p.  113,    .  35.     B]  Merchans 

p.  114,    .  33.     B]  Then. 

p.  116,    .  34.     B]  Body,  oh  me 

p.  117,    .2.     B]  rhese 

p.  118,  1.  37.     B]  preparation? 

p.  122,  1.  17.     B]  Princess 

123,  1.  21.     A  omits]  him 

124,  1.  23.     B]  Aud 

125,  1.  5.     A]  you 

B]  kinsman.         1. 
B]  dare         1.  24. 
A]  Princesse 


1.  33.     B]  woman 


14.     A]  wert 
B]  followers. 


37- 
1.  20. 


]  have  you 
B]  Love  these 


B]  enconragement 


1.  33.     A]  And  be  but  to  make  cleane  his 


126,  1.  8. 

127,  1.  2. 

128,  1.  8. 
A]  feates 

129,  1.  32. 

p.  130,  1.  25.  B]  Pen. 

p.  131,  1.  13.  A]  Is  love 
sword  :  coward 

p.  132,  1.  23.  A  omits]  and 

p.  135,  1.  8.  A]  Princesse 

p.  136,  1.  28.  B]  hope  no  night 

p.  138,  1.  40.  A]  complaine,  me 

p.  143,  1-  30.     A]  And  then 

p.  144,  1.  12.     A  omits]  is         1.  20.     A]  Now  I 

P-  J45>  1.  35-     A]  toward 

p.  146,  1.  27.     B]  Island 

p.  147,  1.  i.  B]  dance.         1.  20.     A]  Plow 

p.  148,  1.  16.     A]  And  may         1.  33.     B]  endeavour; 

p.  149,  1.  12.     A]  hide  in  iniquities         1.  18.     A  omits]  and 

p.  150,  1.  30.     A]  Emanuel—not — 

p.  151,  1.  12.     B]  Armusia. 

p.  152,  1.  6.  A]  with'm         1.  10.     B]  honourably         1.  27.     B]  him  {full 
point  supplied} 

p.  153,  1.  i.  A]  wils 

p.  154,  1.  i.  A]  you 


p.  155,  1.  7.     B]  knowledge ; 
1.  16.     A]  doe  performe 

p.  157,  1.  25.     A]  bound  to? 
p.  158,  1.  2.     A]  plague  "a 
p.  159,  1.  10.     B]  Nations 


1.  8.     B]  swellings,     A]  maine  aire 


1.  26.     A]  stinch 


382 


THE  NOBLE  GENTLEMAN 

p.  160,  1.  31.  B  omits]  for  't ; 

p.  161,  1.  32.  B  omits  the  second}  ye 

p.  162,  1.  8.  B]  you 

p.  163,  1.  31.  A  omits}  a 

p.  164,  1.  1 8.  B]  you 

p.  165,  1.  n.  A]  his  arrant 

p.  168,  1.  25.  B]  thakful        1.  26.     B]  Dios 

p.  170,  1.  17.  B]  Princesses 

There  is  an  edition  of  The  Island  Princess  in  the  British  Museum  (161 .  c.  70) 
dated  1669,  'As  it  is  Acted  at  the  Theatre  Royal  by  His  Majesties  Servants. 
With  the  Alterations  and  New  Additional  Scenes.  Licensed  May  31.  1669. 
Roger  L'Estrange.'  It  does  not  appear  to  be  desirable  to  record  here  more 
than  the  following  readings  from  a  collation  kindly  made  by  Mrs  Arnold 
Glover  : 

p.  92,  1.  22.     pleasures 

p.  96,  1.  6.     alone  as  a  mask 

p.  103,  1.  27.     Dias  could 

p.  104,  1.  21.     your  countrey 

p.  105,  1.  31.     Clad 

p.  106,  1.  34.     next  to  nothing 

p.  108,  1.  1 8.     thou  wish  her 

p.  116  to  p.  117,  1.  15.     Re-written 

p.  117,  1.  29.     without  courage         1.  35.     boyish  brains  out 

p.  140,  1.  24.     to  tax 

pp.  164,  165.     Rewritten     A  prologue  and  an  epilogue  are  added 


THE    NOBLE    GENTLEMAN. 

p.  171,  11.  3-28.     Not  in  A     The  Prologue  is  printed  at  the  end  of  the  play 
1.  13.     B]  Lougueville 

p.  172,  1.  2.     B]  aud         1.  31.     B]  ro 

p.  173,  1.  8.     A]  you  be         1.  16.     A]  preacht         1.  30.     A]  travaile 

p.  174,  1.  8.     A]  lights... makes 

p.  175,  I.  38.     B]  worthy 

p.  176,  1.  19.     B]  upbraid         1.  39.     A  omits]  a 

p.  177,  1.  26.     A]  not,  in 

p.  178,  1.  20.     B]  he         1.  25.     A]  looks 

p.  179,  1.  2.     B]  Monsieur 

p.  184,  1.  i.     A]  mine  still,  when         1.  15.     A]  trojan  purple 

p.  185,  1.  11.     A  omits}  Sccena  Prima. 

p.  186,  11.  18,  19.     A]  contented  her, 

When  you  first  married  her  ;    a 

p.  187,  1.  i.     B]  mighty         1.  3.     B  omits}  up 

383 


APPENDIX 


P.  189,  i.  5- 
P.  196,  i.  23. 
P.  198,  i.  5. 
P.  199,  i.  4. 
P.  200,  i.  24. 

p.  202,  1.  36. 
p.  203,  1.  20. 
p.  209,  1.  31. 
p.  211,  1.  IO. 
p.  212,  1.  8. 

P-   213,   I-  3- 
p.   214,  1.  5. 

p.  215,  1.  10. 
p.  217, 1.  19. 
p.  218,  1.  16. 

p.  221,  1.  33. 
p.  222,  1.  8. 
p.  223,  1.  29. 
p.  224,  1.  7. 
p.  226,  1.  25. 
B]  Jrq. 

p.  228, 1.  25. 
p.  229, 1.  7. 

1.  22.  B  omits] 
p.  230,  1.  5. 
p.  231,  1.  26. 
p.  232,1.  15. 
p.  236,  1.  19. 
p.  237,  1.  29. 
p.  239,  1.  17. 


1.  17.     A  omits]  Sc^na  Prirna. 


A  omits  the  second]  the 

A  omits]  answer 
A]  do  your 
B  omits]  are 

A]  for  me 
B]  Wake 

B]  you 

B  omits}  good 
A]  Meron 
A]  thy  Duke         1.  29.    A  omits}  Sccena  Prima.    A  omits}  ana 

A]  ready  husband 

B]  you?         1.  14.     A]  post  horse         1.  16.     B]  Shyt. 
A]  innumerall         1.  21.     A]  you'r 

A  omits}  sword         1.  30.     B]  defend 

A]  see  thy 

A]  my  soule 
B]  you 

A]  full,  being  in 
B]  leasure. 

A  omits}  Sccena  Prima.          1.  28.     B  omits}  and 


1.  30.     B]  would 


1.  33.     B]  mads 

1.36. 


1.  19.      B]  Lorgue 


A]  those         1.  36.     B]  Duste. 

B]  I  am  1.  9.     A]  Nor  shall  you 

the 

B]  you         1.  13.     A]  you,  furnisht  in 
A]  Disgraced         1.  33.     B  omits}  God's  .  .  Gentlemen 

A]  them  ?     B]  'em  ?         1.  34.     B  omits}  by  heaven 

B]  assures 

So,  both  in  A  and  B         1.  41.     B]  appose 
A]  say'e  ? 


THE    CORONATION. 

A  =  the  quarto  of  1640.     B  =  the  2nd  folio. 

Mrs  Arnold  Glover  has  kindly  collated  a  copy  of  the  quarto  in  the  Dyce 
collection;  Mr  R.  F.  Towndrow  has  kindly  collated  a  copy  of  the  quarto  in 
the  Bodleian. 

The  title  page  of  the  quarto  is  as  follows  : 

The  |  Coronation  |  A  Comedy.  |  As  it  was  presented  by  her  |  Majesties 
Servants  at  the  private  |  House  in  Drury  Lane.  |  Written  by  John  Fletcher. 
Gent.  |  LONDON,  \  Printed  by  Tho.  Cotes,  for  Andrew  Crooke,  and  |  William 

384 


THE  CORONATION 

Cooke.  and  are  to  be  sold  at  the  signe  |  of  the  Greene  Dragon,  in  Pauls  \ 
Church-yard.  1640. 

p.  240,  1.  4.     A]  The  Actors  Names.  1.  74.     A]  The  Prologue 

1.  26.     B]  a  Corporation  day         1.  36.     B]  in 

p.  241,  1.  3.     B]  Temple        1.  16.     B]  Prologue  too?         1.  29.     A  omits} 
Scana  Prima. 

p.  244,  1.  10.  A]  Macarius        1.  21.     B]  Prince? 

p.  246,  1.  28.  B]  it 

p.  247,  1.  30.  B]  obsolute 

p.  249,  1.  19.  B]  he        1.  37.     B]  Ketch 

p.  250,  1.  28.  B]  Selecus 

p.  251,  1.  30.  B]  commonl 

p.  252,  1.  6.  A  omits}  Sccena  Prima. 

p.  254,  1.  29.  B]  court,  with   .  A]  dower 

p.  256,  1.  8.  A]  gives        1.  9.     B]  hot        1.  19.     A]  should 

p.  257,  1.  19.  B]  Are.         1.  28.     A]  Ladies  and  attendants,  Gent. 

p.  258,  1.  i.  A]  Seleucus 

p.  260,  1.  5.  B]  forget 

p.  261,  1.  34.  B]  immatrial 

p.  262,  1.  5.  A  omits'}  the        1.  7.     B]  purpose. 

p.  263,  1.  23.  B]  that  purpose  to  make  you  so         1.  31.     B]  tho 

p.  264,  1.  34.  B]  me.         1.  38.     B  omits}  and  now 

p.  267,  1.  4.     A  and  B  read}  Phi.  \before  'Tis]  1.  5.     A  gives  this  line 

to}  Phi.         1.6.    A  gives  this  line  to}  Lisa.        1.  12.     B]  Qeeen        1.14.    A 
and  B  read}  Lisa. 

p.  272,  1.  25.     B]  minure 

p.  273,  1.  7.     B]  failty 

p.  274,  1.  ii.     A]  there  is        1.  23.     A  and!&  read}  Deliver 

p.  276,  1.  14.     A  omits}  Scana  Prima.         1.  37.     B]  or 

p.  278,  1.  27.     A  and  B  read}  rise 

p.  280,  1.  20.     B]  'ill 

p.  285,  1.  10.     A  omits}  Sop. 

p.  286,  1.  17.     B]  Wiliow 

p.  287,  1.  9.     A]  He'e  my 

p.  289,  1.  13.     A]  bove  all 

p.  292,  Li.     A  omits}  Scana  Prima. 

p.  293,  1.  31.     B]We 

p.  294,  1.  18.     B]  Protestor        1.  37.     B]  work 

p.  296,  1.  24.     A]  to  it        1.  25.     A]  doe  it 

p.  297,  1.  5.     B]  There's         1.  9.     B]  punish 

p.  298,  1.  19.     B]  Pil. 

p.  299,  1.  3.     A  omits}  In        1.  5.     B]  there's        1.  9.     B]  honor,  what 

p.  300,  1.  10.     A]  doe 

385 


APPENDIX 


p.  302,  1.  1 8.     A]  Eubulus     B]  Etxi        1.  20.     A  omits  semicolon 

p.  303,  1.  29.     A  omits]  and 

p.  304,  1.  30.     A]  Demetrius 

p.  305,  1.  19.     B]  two 

p.  306,  1.  5.     B]  Sis.         1.  28.     A]  The  Epilogue        1.  34.     B]  sad 


THE    COXCOMB. 

A  =  ist  folio.     B  =  2nd  folio. 

p.  308,  11.  3-43.     Not  in  A 

p.  309,  1.  i.     A]  The  Prologue         1.  13.     A]  the 

p.  310,  1.  15.     B]  You'ave 

p.  311,  1.  i.     A]  Be 

p.  313,  1.  27.     B]  they  we'll,  111  keep  Aem 

p.  314,  1.  14.  B]  mouths  my  1.  18.  A  and  B  omit]  Ant.  1.  29.  A 
and  B]  Gentlewoman  ? 

p.  315.  1.  6.  A]  Husband  will  come  1.  9.  A]  I  had  you  had  1.  28. 
A]  foole  to — 

p.  316,  1.  10.  A  omits']  Exit.  1.  18.  A]  so  their  1.  20.  B]  mad 

1.  23.  B]  her?  her?  1.  25.  B  omits}  had 

p.  317,  1.  i.     A]  be  sure         1.  30.     B]  heaven 

p.  319,  1.  21.  Omitted  in  B  1.  22.     A]  no  jugling  1.  31.     A]  do 

most  jest 

p.  320,  1.  6.  B]  she 

p.  321,  1.  29.  B]  Faith  sweet         1.  38.     B]  thee 

p.  322,  1.  18.  B  adds]  Exit.         1.  19.     B]  Wore 

P-  323>  1-  3-  B]  Y'cannot        1.  25.     A  and  B]  me? 

p.  324,  1.  2.  B  omits}  to 

P-  325>  !•  3-  B]  hed        1.  10.     A]  your  towne 

p.  327,  1.  ii.  B]  will         1.  38.     B]  Heaven 

p.  328,  1.3.  B]I'll 

p.  329,  1.  2.  B]  better  1.  6.  B]  ventures  1.  12.  A]  excepted,  ever 
1.  31.  A]  an  humour 

P-  331)  1-  7-     B]  tell  thee  1.  12.     B  omits}  and  1.  20.     A]  hang 

1.  26.     B]  Heaven         1.  30.     A]  I  am 

P'  337>  !•  14-     B]  are         1.  22.     B]  Heaven 

p.  338, 1.  29.  A  omits}  Andrugio  and  1.31.  B  omits  this  line  1.  34. 
A]  had  in  it  a  sap-house 

p.  340,  I-  30-     B]  if  any 

p.  342,  1.  3.  A]  purpose 
P-  343>  1-I3-     A  omits}  Serv. 

p.  344,  1.  5.  A  omits]  I 

386 


THE  COXCOMB 

p.  345,  1.  29.     A]  world  is 
p.  347,  1.  4.     B]  too         1.  15.     B  omits}  thou 
p.  348,  1.  10.     A]  antowardst         1.  26.     A]  do 
p.  349,  1.  2.     A]  and  pretious 

P-  35°.  1-  5-  A]  a  gods  1.  ii.  A]  a  tipling...an'  1.  12.  B]  please 
1.  15.  B  omits}  night  ?  1.33.  B]  Heavens 

p.  351,  1.  21.     B]  now         1.  40.     A]  thou  art 
P-  352>  !•  33-     B]  impotunate 

P-  353)  1-  3-  A]  Exeunt.  1.  7.  A]  How  injuringly  1.  10.  A]  shalt 
1.  19.  B]  work  withal  1.  20.  A]  goe  too 

P-  354,  I-  13.     B]  We'll         1.  24.     B]  should         1.  33.     B  omits}  Jesse 
P-  355>  !•  10.    B]  Nay.         1.  14.    A  omits']  have       1.  33.    B]  Genlewoman 
p.  356, 1.  18.    B  omits]  me       1.  32.    B  omits]  Faith       1.  39.    B]  blessing  on 

P-  357>  1-  !•     B]  awkeward  1.  3.     B]  I  answer  1.  ro.     ?  visit  yon 

1.  21.     BJ  dispach'd 

p.  358,  1.  i.     B]  Antouio  1.  6.     A]  beshrow  1.  19.     B  omits'}  a 

1.  38.     B]  and  and 

P-  359)  1.  21.     A  omits'}  I         1.  32.     A  and  B]  Pigeons? 

p.  361,  1.  3.     A]  lov'd?  so  all 

p.  362,  1.  4.     B  omits]  you 

p.  363,  1.  9.     A]  read  an  I         1-32.     A  omits'}  a 

p.  364,  1.  32.     B]  for  my 

p.  365,  1.  21.     A  omits'}  I 

p.  366,  1.  3.     A]  a  meere         1.  35.     A]  no  Inches 

p.  368,  1.  1 8.  B]  goodbwy  1.19.  B]  oou  1.25.  B]  come  come 
1.  26.  A]  ves  body  1.  32.  B]  her  her 

p.  369,  1.  4.  A]  with  you  1.  12.  A]  too  mocke  me  to,  1.  14.  B] 
heaven  1.31.  A]  carry  now 

p.  370,  1.  4.     B]  you'll        1.  12.     B]  heavens         1.  27.     B  omits']  tell 

p.  371,  1.  9.     A]  wot  you  what? 

p.  372,  1.  4.     B]  see         1.  9.     A]  paid,  for  you         1.  37.     B]  I 

p.  374,  1.  24.     B]  frivilous         1.  37.     B]  circmstances 

P-  375>  !•  26.     B]  kindess 

p.  376,  I-  37-     B]  heve 

p.  377,  1.  4.     B  omits}  a         1.  30.     B]  rhe 

p.  378,  1.  9.     A]  The  Epilogue 

END  OF  VOL.  VIII.