'TIS Pity she's a Whore  
Acted by the queen's Majesty's Servants, at The Phoenix in Drury-Lane.  
LONDON, Printed by Nicholas Okes for Richard Collins, and are to be sold at his shop in Paul's Churchyard, at the sign of the three Kings. 1633.   

The Scene  
PARMA.  

The Actors Names.  Bonaventura, 
A Friar.  A Cardinal, 
Nuntio to the Pope.  Soranzo, 
A Nobleman.  Florio, 
A Citizen of Parma.  Donado, 
Another Citizen.  Grimaldi, 
A Roman Gentleman.  Giovanni, 
Son to Florio.  Bergetto, 
Nephew to Donado.  Richardetto, 
A supposed Physician.  Vasques, 
Servant to Soranzo.  Poggio, 
Servant to Bergetto.  Bandetti, 
  

Women.  Annabella, 
Daughter to Florio.  Hippolita, 
Wife to Richardetto  Philotis, 
His Niece.  Putana, 
tutoress to Annabella.    

To the truly Noble, john, Earl of Peterborough, Lord Mordant, Baron of Turuey.  
My LORD,  
WHere a Truth of merit hath a general warrant, There Love is but a Debt, Acknowledgement a justice. Greatness cannot often claim Virtue by Inheritance; Yet in this, YOURS appears most Eminent, for that you are not more rightly Heir to your Fortunes, than Glory shallbe to your Memory. Sweetness of disposition ennobles a freedom of Birth; in BOTH, your lawful Interest adds Honour to your own Name, and mercy to my presumption. Your Noble allowance of These First Fruits of my leisure in the Action, emboldens my confidence, of your as noble construction in this Presentment: especially since my Service must ever owe particular duty to your Favours, by a particular Engagement. The Gravity of the Subject may easily excuse the lightness of the Title: otherwise, I had been a severe judge against mine own guilt. Princes have vouchsafed Grace to trifles, offered from a purity of Devotion, your Lordship may like wise please, to admit into your good opinion, with these weak endeavours, the constancy of Affection from the sincere Lover of your Deserts in Honour  JOHN FORD.  

To my Friend the Author.  
WIth admiration I beheld This Whore  
Adorned with Beauty, such as might restore  
(If ever being as Thy Muse hath famed)  
Her Giovanni, in his love unblamed:  
The ready Graces lent their willing aid,  
Pallas herself now played the Chambermaid  
And helped to put her Dressings on: secure  
Rest Thou, that Thy Name herein shall endure  
To th'end of Age; and Annabella be  
Gloriously Fair, even in her Infamy.  THOMAS ELLICE.  

'tis Pity she's a whore.  
Enter friar and Giovanni. friar. 
DIspute no more in this, for know (young man)  
These are no School-points; nice Philosophy  
May tolerate unlikely arguments,  
But Heaven admits no jest; wits that presumed  
On wit too much, by striving how to prove  
There was no God; with foolish grounds of Art,  
Discovered first the nearest way to Hell;  
And filled the world with devilish Atheism:  
Such questions youth are fond; For better 'tis,  
To bless the Sun, than reason why it shines;  
Yet he thou talk'st of, is above the Sun,  
No more; I may not hear it.  Gio. 
Gentle Father,  
To you I have unclasped my burdened soul,  
Emptied the store-house of my thoughts and heart,  
Made myself poor of secrets; have not left  
Another word untold, which hath not spoke  
All what I ever durst, or think, or know;  
And yet is here the comfort I shall have,  
Must I not do, what all men else may, love?  Fry. 
Yes. you may love fair son.  Gio. 
Must I not praise  
That beauty, which if framed a new, the gods  
Would make a god of, if they had it there;  
And kneel to it, as I do kneel to them?  Fry. 
Why foolish madman?  Gio. 
Shall a peevish sound,  
A customary form, from man to man,  
Of brother and of sister, be a bar  
Twixt my perpetual happiness and me?  
Say that we had one father, say one womb,  
(Curse to my joys) gave both us life, and birth;  
Are we not therefore each to other bound  
So much the more by Nature; by the the links  
Of blood, of reason; Nay if you will have't,  
Even of Religion, to be ever one,  
One soul, one flesh, one love, one heart, one All?  Fry. 
Have done unhappy youth, for thou art lost.  Gio. 
Shall then, (for that I am her brother borne)  
My joys be ever banished from her bed?  
No Father; in your eyes I see the change.  
Of pity and compassion: from your age  
As from a sacred Oracle. distils  
The life of Counsel: tell me holy man,  
What Cure shall give me ease in these extremes.  Fry. 
Repentance (son) and sorrow for this sin:  
For thou hast moved a Majesty above  
With thy un-ranged (almost) Blasphemy.  Gio. 
O do not speak of that (dear Confessor)  Fry, 
Art thou (my son) that miracle of Wit,  
Who once within these three months wert esteemed  
A wonder of thine age, throughout Bononia?  
How did the University applaud  
Thy Government, Behaviour, Learning, Speech,  
Sweetness, and all that could make up a man?  
I was proud of my tutelage, and chose  
Rather to leave my Books, then part with thee,  
I did so: but the fruits of all my hopes  
Are lost in thee, as thou art in thyself.  
O Giovanni: hast thou left the Schools  
Of Knowledge, to converse with Lust and Death?  
(For Death waits on thy Lust) look through the World,  
And thou shalt see a thousand faces shine  
More glorious, than this Idol thou adorest:  
Leave her, and take thy choice, 'tis much less sin,  
Though in such games as those, they lose that win.  Gio. 
It were more ease to stop the Ocean  
From floats and ebbs, than to dissuade my vows.  Fry. 
Then I have done, and in thy wilful flame:  
Already see thy ruin; Heaven is just,  
Yet hear my counsel.  Gio. 
As a voice of life.  Fry. 
Hie to thy Father's house, there lock thee fast  
Alone within thy Chamber, then fall down  
On both thy knees, and grovel on the ground:  
Cry to thy heart, wash every word thou utterest  
In tears, (and if't be possible) of blood:  
Beg Heaven to cleanse the leprosy of Lust  
That rots thy Soul, acknowledge what thou art,  
A wretch, a worm, a nothing: weep, sigh, pray  
Three times a day, and three times every night:  
For seven days' space do this, then if thou find'st  
No change in thy desires, return to me:  
I'll think on remedy, pray for thyself  
At home, whilst I pray for thee here— away,  
My blessing with thee, we have need to pray.  Gio. 
All this I'll do, to free me from the rod  
Of vengeance, else I'll swear, my Fate's my God,  Exeunt. Enter Grimaldi and Vasques ready to fight. Vas. 
Come sir, stand to your tackling, if you prove Craven,  
I'll make you run quickly.  Gri. 
Thou art no equal match for me.  Vas. 
Indeed I never went to the wars to bring home news, nor cannot play the mountebank for a meal's meat, and swear I got my wounds in the field: see you these grey hairs, they'll not flinch for a bloody nose, wilt thou to this gear?  Gri. 
Why slave, think'st thou I'll balance my reputation With a cast-suit; Call thy Master, he shall know that I dare—  Vas. 
Scold like a Cotquean (that's your Profession) thou poor shadow of a Soldier, I will make thee know, my Master keeps Servants, thy betters in quality and performance: Com'st thou to fight or prate?  Gri. 
Neither with thee,  
I am a Roman. and a Gentleman, one that have got  
Mine honour with expense of blood,  Vas. 
You are a lying Coward, and a fool, fight, or by these Hilts  
I'll kill thee— brave my Lord,— you'll fight.  Gri. 
Provoke me not, for if thou dost—  They fight, Grimal. hath the worst Vas. 
Have you.  Enter Florio, Donado, Soranzo. Flo. 
What meaned these sudden broils so near my doors?  
Have you not other places, but my house  
To vent the spleen of your disordered bloods?  
Must I be haunted still with such unrest,  
As not to eat, or sleep in peace at home?  
Is this your love Grimaldi? Fie, 'tis nought.  Do. 
And Vasques. I may tell thee 'tis not well  
To broach these quarrels, you are ever forward  
In seconding contentions.  Enter above Annabella and Putana. Flo. 
What's the ground?  Sor. 
That with your patience Signiore, I'll resolve  
This Gentleman, whom fame reports a soldier,  
(For else I know not) rivals me in love  
To Signior Florio's Daughter; to whose ears  
He still prefers his suit to my disgrace,  
Thinking the way to recommend himself,  
Is to disparage me in his report:  
But know Grimaldi, though (may be) thou art  
My equal in thy blood, yet this betrays  
A lowness in thy mind; which were't thou Noble  
Thou would it as much disdain, as I do thee  
For this unworthiness; and on this ground  
I willed my Servant to correct this tongue,  
Holding a man, so base, no match for me.  Vas. 
And had your sudden coming prevented us, I had let my Gentleman blood under the gills; I should have wormed you Sir, for running mad.  Gri. 
I'll be revenged Soranzo.  Vas 
On a dish of warm-broth to stay your stomach, do honest Innocence, do; spoon-meat is a wholesomer diet than a Spanish blade.  Gri. 
remember this.  Sor. 
I fear thee not Grimaldi.  Ex. Gri: Flo. 
My Lord Soranzo, this is strange to me,  
Why you should storm, having my word engaged:  
Owing her heart, what need you doubt her ear?  
Losers' may talk by law of any game.  Vas. 
Yet the villain of words, signior Florio may be such,  
As would make any unspleened Dove, Choleric,  
Blame not my Lord in this.  Flo. 
Be you more silent,  
I would not for my wealth, my daughter's love  
Should cause the spilling of one drop of blood.  
Vasques put up, let's end this fray in wine.  Exeunt. Putana 
How like you this child? here's threatning challenging, quarrelling, and fighting, on every side, and all is for your sake; you had need look to yourself (Charge) you'll be stolen away sleeping else shortly.  Annabella: 
But (tutoress) such a life, gives no content  
To me, my thoughts are fixed on other ends;  
Would you would leave me.  Put. 
Leave you? no marvel else; leave me, no leaving (Charge)  
This is love outright, Indeed I blame you not, you have  
Choice fit for the best Lady in Italy.  Anna. 
Pray do not talk so much.  Put. 
Take the worst with the best, there's Grimaldi the soldier a very well-timbered fellow: they say he is a Roman, Nephew to the Duke Mount Ferratto, they say he did good service in the wars against the Millanoys, but faith (Charge) I do not like him, and be for nothing, but for being a soldier; one amongst twenty of your skirmishing Captains, but have some privy may me or other, that mars their standing upright, I like him the worse, he crinkles so much in the hams; though he might serve, if their were no more men, yet he's not the man I would choose.  Anna. 
Fie how thou prat'st.  Put. 
As I am a very woman, I like signior Soranzo, well; he is wise, and what is more, rich; and what is more than that, kind, and what is more than all this, a Nobleman; such a one were I the fair Annabella, myself, I would wish and pray for: than he is bountiful; beside he is handsome, and, by my troth, I think wholesome: (and that's news in a gallant of three and twenty.) liberal that I know: loving, that you know; and a man sure, else he could never ha' purchased such a good name, with Hippolita the lusty Widow in her husband's life time: And 'twere but for that report (sweet heart) would'ee were thine: Commend a man for his qualities, but take a husband as he is a plain-sufficient, naked man: such a one is for your bed, and such a one is Signior Soranzo my life for't.  Anna. 
Sure the woman took her morning's Draught to soon.  Enter Begetto and Poggio. Put. 
But look (sweet heart,) look what thing comes now:  
Here's another of your ciphers to fill up the number:  
Oh brave old Ape in a silken Coat, observe.  Ber. 
Didst thou think Poggio, that I would spoil my  
New clothes, and leave my dinner to fight.  Pog. 
No Sir, I did not take you for so arrant a baby.  Ber. 
I am wiser than so: for I hope Poggio. thou  
Never heard'st of an elder brother, that was a Coxcomb,  
Didst Poggio?  Pog. 
Never indeed Sir, as long as they had either land or money left them to inherit.  Ber. 
Is it possible Poggio? oh monstruous! why I'll undertake, with a handful of silver, to buy a headful of wit at any time, but sirrah, I have another purchase in hand, I shall have the wench mine uncle says, I will but wash my face, and shift socks, and then have at her i'faith— Mark my pace Poggio.  Pog. 
Sir I have seen an. Ass, and a Mule trot the Spanish pavin with a better grace, I know not how often.  Exeunt Anna. 
This Idiot haunts me too.  Put. 
ay, ay, he needs no description, the rich Magnifico, that is below with your Father (Charge) Signior Donado his Uncle; for that he means to make this his cousin a golden calf, thinks that you will be a right Israelite, and fall down to him presently: but I hope I have tutored you better: they say a fool's babble is a lady's play fellow: yet you having wealth enough, you need not cast upon the dearth of flesh at any rate: hang him Innocent.  Enter Giovanni. Anna. 
But see Putana, see: what blessed shape  
Of some celestial Creature now appears?  
What man is he, that with such sad aspect  
Walks careless of himself?  Put. 
Where  Anna. 
Look below.  Put, 
Oh, 'tis your brother sweet—  Anna. 
Ha!  Put. 
'Tis your brother.  Anna, 
Sure 'tis not he, this is some woeful thing  
Wrapped up in grief, some shadow of a man.  
Alas he beats his breast, and wipes his eyes  
Drowned all in tears: methinks I hear him sigh.  
Lets down Putana? and partake the cause,  
I know my Brother in the Love he bears me,  
Will not deny me partage in his sadness,  
My soul is full of heaviness and fear.  Exit. Gio. 
Lost, I am lost: my fates have doomed my death:  
The more I strive, I love, the more I love,  
The less I hope: I see my ruin, certain.  
What judgement, or endeavours could apply  
To my incurable and restless wounds,  
I throughly have examined, but in vain:  
O that it were not in Religion sin,  
To make our love a God, and worship it.  
I have even wearied heaven with prayers, dried up  
The spring of my continual tears, even starved  
My veins with daily fasts: what wit or Art  
Could Counsel, I have practised; but alas  
I find all these but dreams, and old men's tales  
To fright unsteady youth; I'm still the same,  
Or I must speak, or burst; 'tis not I know,  
My lust; but 'tis my fare that leads me on.  
Keep fear and low faint hearted shame with slaves,  
I'll tell her, that I love her, though my heart  
Were rated at the price of that attempt.  
Oh me! she comes.  Enter Anna and Putana. Anna. 
Brother.  Gio. 
If such a thing  
As Courage dwell in men, (ye heavenly powers)  
Now double all that virtue in my tongue.  Anna. 
Why Brother, will you not speak to me?  Gio. 
Yes; how d''ee Sister?  Anna. 
Howsoever I am, methinks you are not well.  Put. 
Bless us why are you so sad Sir.  Gio. 
Let me entreat you leave us a while, Putana,  
Sister, I would be private with you.  Anna. 
Withdraw Putana.  Put. 
I will, If this were any other Company for her, I should think my absence an office of some credit; but I will leave them together.  Exit Putana: Gio. 
Come Sister lend your hand, let's walk together.  
I hope you need not blush to walk with me,  
Here's none but you and I.  Anna. 
How's this?  Gio. 
Faith I mean no harm.  Anna. 
Harm?  Gio. 
No good faith; how is't wi'thee'ee?  Anna. 
I trust he be not frantic  
I am very well brother.  Gio. 
Trust me but I am sick, I fear so sick,  
'Twill cost my life.  Anna. 
Mercy forbid it: 'tis not so I hope.  Gio. 
I think you love me Sister.  Anna. 
Yes you know, I do.  Gio. 
I know't indeed— y'are very fair.  Anna. 
Nay then I see you have a merry sickness,  Gio. 
That's as it proves: they Poets feign (I read)  
That juno for her forehead did exceed  
All other goddesses: but I durst swear,  
Your forehead exceeds hers, as hers did theirs.  Anna. 
Troth this is pretty.  Gio. 
Such a pair of stars.  
As are thine eyes, would (like Promethean fire.)  
(If gently glanced) give life to senseless stones.  Anna. 
Fie upon'ee,  Gio. 
The Lily and the Rose most sweetly straying  
Upon your dimpled Cheeks do strive for change.  
Such lips would tempt a Saint; such hands as those  
Would make an Anchoret Lascivious.  Anna. 
D''ee mock me', or flatter me,  Gio. 
If you would see a beauty more exact  
Than Art can counter fit, or nature frame,  
Look in your glass, and there behold your own.  Anna. 
O you are a trim youth.  Gio. 
Here.  Offers his Dagger to her. Anna. 
What to do.  Gio. 
And here's my breast, strike home.  
Rip up my bosom, there thou shalt behold  
A heart, in which is writ the truth I speak.  
Why stand 'eere?  Anna. 
Are you earnest?  Gio. 
Yes most earnest.  
You cannot love?  Anna. 
Whom.  Gio. 
Me, my tortured soul  
Hath felt affliction in the heat of Death.  
O Annabella I am quite undone,  
The love of thee (my sister) and the view  
Of thy immortal beauty hath untuned  
All harmony both of my rest and life,  
Why d''ee not strike?  Anna. 
Forbid it my just fears,  
If this be true, 'twere fitter I were dead.  Gio. 
True Annabella; 'tis no time to jest,  
I have too long suppressed the hidden flames  
That almost have consumed me; I have spent  
Many a silent night in sighs and groans,  
Ran over all my thoughts, despised my Fate,  
Reasoned against the reasons of my love,  
Done all that smooth-cheeked Virtue could advise,  
But found all bootless; 'tis my destiny,  
That you must either love, or I must die.  Anna. 
Comes this in sadness from you?  Gio, 
Let some mischief  
Befall me soon, if I dissemble aught.  Anna. 
You are my brother Giovanni.  Gio. 
You,  
My Sister Annabella; I know this:  
And could afford you instance why to love  
So much the more for this; to which intent  
Wise Nature first in your Creation meant  
To make you mine: else't had been sin and foul,  
To share one beauty to a double soul.  
Nearness in birth or blood, doth but persuade  
A nearer nearness in affection.  
I have asked Counsel of the holy Church,  
Who tells me I may love you, and 'tis just,  
That since I may, I should; and will, yes will:  
Must I now live, or die?  Anna. 
Live, thou hast won  
The field, and never fought; what thou hast urged,  
My captive heart had long ago resolved.  
I blush to tell thee, (but I'll tell thee now)  
For every sigh that thou hast spent for me,  
I have sighed ten; for every tear shed twenty:  
And not so much for that I loved, as that  
I durst not say I loved; nor scarcely think it.  Gio. 
Let not this Music be a dream (ye gods)  
For pity-sake I beg 'ee'ee.  Anna. 
On my knees,  She kneels. 
Brother, even by our Mother's dust, I charge you,  
Do not betray me to your mirth or hate,  
Love me, or kill me Brother.  Gio. 
On my knees,  He kneels. 
Sister, even by my Mother's dust I charge you,  
Do not betray me to your mirth or hate,  
Love me, or kill me Sister.  Anna. 
You mean good sooth then?  Gio. 
In good troth I do,  
And so do you I hope: say, I'm in earnest:  Anna. 
I'll swear't and I.  Gio. 
And I, and by this kiss,  Kisses her. 
(Once more, yet once more, now let's rise, by this)  
I would not change this minute for Elysium,  
What must we now do?  Anna. 
What you will.  Gio. 
Come then,  
After so many tears as we have wept,  
Let's learn to court in smiles, to kiss and sleep.  Exeunt. Enter Florio and Donado. Elo. 
Signior Donado, you have said enough,  
I understand you, but would have you know,  
I will not force my Daughter 'gainst her will.  
You see I have but two, a Son and Her;  
And he is so devoted to his Book,  
As I must tell you true, I doubt his health:  
Should he miscarry, all my hopes rely  
Upon my Girl; as for worldly Fortune,  
I am I thank my Stars, blessed with enough:  
My Care is how to match her to her liking,  
I would not have her marry Wealth, but Love,  
And if she like your Nephew, let him have her,  
Here's all that I can say.  Do. 
Sir you say well,  
Like a true father, and for my part, I  
If the young folks can like, ('twixt you and me)  
Will promise to assure my Nephew presently,  
Three thousand florins yearly during life,  
And after I am dead, my whole estate.  Flo. 
'Tis a fair proffer sir, mean time your Nephew  
Shall have free passage to commence his suit;  
If he can thrive, he shall have my consent,  
So for this time I'll leave you Signior.  Exit. Do. 
Well,  
Here's hope yet, if my Nephew would have wit,  
But he is such another Dunce, I fear  
he'll never win the Wench; when I was young  
I could have done't i'faith, and so shall he  
If he will learn of me; and in good time  
He comes himself.  Enter Bergetto and Poggio. Pog. 
How now Bergetto, whether away so fast?  Ber. 
Oh Uncle, I have heard the strangest news that ever came out of the Mint, have I not Poggio.  Pog. 
Yes indeed Sir.  Do. 
What news Bergetto?  Ber. 
Why look ye Uncle? my Barber told me just now that there is a fellow come to Town, who undertakes to make a Mill go without the mortal help of any water or wind, only with Sandbags: and this fellow hath a strange Horse, a most excellent beast, I'll assure you Uncle, (my Barber says) whose head to the wonder of all Christian people, stands just behind where his tail is, is't nor true Poggio?  Pog. 
So the Barber swore for sooth.  Do. 
And you are running hither?  Ber. 
I forsooth Uncle.  Do. 
Wilt thou be a Fool still? come sir, you shall not go, you have more mind of a Puppet-play, then on the business I told ye: why thou great Baby, wilt never have wit, wilt make thyself a May-game to all the world?  Pog. 
Answer for yourself Master.  Ber. 
Why Uncle, should I sit at home still, and not go abroad to see fashions like other gallants?  Do. 
To see hobby-horses: what wise talk I pray had you with Annabella, when you were at Signior Florio's house?  Ber. 
Oh the wench: uds sa'me, Uncle; I tickled her with a rare speech, that I made her almost burst her belly with laughing.  Do. 
Nay I think so, and what speech was't?  Ber. 
What did I say Poggio?  Pog. 
For sooth my Master said, that he loved her almost as well as he loved Parmasent, and swore (I'll be sworn for him). that she wanted but such a Nose as his was, to be as pretty a young woman, as any was in Parma.  Do. 
Oh gross!  Ber. 
Nay Uncle, then she asked me, whether my Father had any more children than myself: and I said no, 'twere better he should have had his brains knocked out first.  Do. 
This is intolerable.  Ber. 
Then said she, will Signior Donado your Uncle leave you all his wealth?  Do. 
Ha! that was good, did she harp upon that string?  Ber. 
Did she harp upon that string, I that she did: I answered, leave me all his wealth? why woman, he hath no other wit, if he had, he should hear on't to his ever lasting glory and confusion: I know (quoth I) I am his white boy, and will not be gulled: and with that she fell into a great smile, and went away. Nay I did fit her.  Do. 
Ah sirrah, then I see there is no changing of nature,  
Well Bergetto, I fear thou wilt be a very Ass still.  Ber. 
I should be sorry for that Uncle.  Do. 
Come, come you home with me, since you are no better a speaker, I'll have you write to her after some courtly manner, and enclose some rich Jewel in the Letter.  Ber. 
I marry, that will be excellent.  Do. 
Peace innocent,  
Once in my time I'll set my wits to school,  
If all fail, 'tis but the fortune of a fool.  Ber. 
Poggio, 'twill do Poggio.  Exeunt.  

Actus Secundus.  Enter Giovanni and Annabella, as from their Chamber. Gio. 
Come Annabella, no more Sister now,  
But Love; a name more Gracious, do not blush,  
(Beauties sweet wonder) but be proud, to know  
That yielding thou hast conquered, and inflamed  
A heart whose tribute is thy brother's life.  Anna. 
And mine is his, oh how these stolen contents  
Would print a modest Crimson on my cheeks,  
Had any but my heart's delight prevailed.  Gio. 
I marvel why the chaster of your sex  
Should think this pretty toy called Maidenhead,  
So strange a loss, when being lost, 'tis nothing,  
And you are still the same.  Anna. 
'Tis well for you,  
Now you can talk.  Gio. 
Music as well consists  
In th'ear, as in the playing.  Anna. 
Oh y'are wanton,  
Tell on't, y'are best, do.  Gio. 
Thou wilt chide me then,  
Kiss me, so; thus hung jove on Laeda's neck,  
And sucked divine Ambrosia from her lips:  
I envy not the mightiest man alive,  
But hold myself in being King of thee,  
More great, then were I King of all the world:  
But I shall lose you Sweetheart.  Anna. 
But you shall not.  Gio. 
You must be married Mistress.  Anna. 
Yes, to whom?  Gio. 
Some one must have you.  Anna. 
You must.  Gio. 
Nay some other.  Anna. 
Now prithee do not speak so, without jesting  
You'll make me weep in earnest.  Gio. 
What you will not.  
But tell me sweet, canst thou be dared to swear  
That thou wilt live to me, and to no other?  Anna. 
By both our loves I dare, for didst thou know  
My Giovanni, how all suitors seem  
To my eyes hateful, thou wouldst trust me then.  Gio. 
Enough, I take thy word; Sweet we must part,  
Remember what thou vow'st, keep well my heart.  Anna. 
Will you begone?  Gio. 
I must.  Anna. 
When to return?  Gio. 
Soon.  Anna. 
Look you do.  Gio. 
Farewell.  Exit. Anna. 
Go where thou wilt, in mind I'll keep thee here,  
And where thou art, I know I shall be there  
Guardian.  Enter Putana. Put. 
Child, how is't child? well, thank Heaven, hall  Anna. 
O Guardian, what a Paradise of joy  
Have I passed over!  Put. 
Nay what a Paradise of joy have you passed under? why now I commend thee (Charge) fear nothing, (sweetheart) what though he be your Brother; your Brother's a man I hope, and I say still, if a young Wench feel the fit upon her, let her take anybody, Father or Brother, all is one.  Anna. 
I would not have it known for all the world.  Put. 
Nor I indeed, for the speech of the people; else 'twere nothing.  Florio within— 
Daughter Annabella.  Anna. 
O me! my Father,— here Sir,— reach my work.  Flo. within. 
What are you doing?  An. 
So, let him come now,  Enter Florio, Richardetto, like a Doctor of Physic, and Philotis with a Lute in her hand. Flo. 
So hard at work, that's well; you lose no time, look, I have brought you company, here's one, a learned Doctor, lately come from Padua, much skilled in Physic, and for that I see you have of late been sickly, I entreated this reverent man to visit you some time.  Anna. 
Y'are very welcome Sir.  Richard. 
I thank you Mistress,  
Loud Fame in large report hath spoke your praise,  
as well for Virtue as perfection:  
For which I have been bold to bring with me  
A Kinswoman of mine, a maid, for song,  
And music, one perhaps will give content,  
Please you to know her.  Anna. 
They are parts I love,  
And she for them most welcome.  Phi. 
Thank you Lady.  Flo. 
Sir now you know my house, pray make not strange,  
And if you find my Daughter need your Art,  
I'll be your paymaster.  Rich. 
Sir, what I am she shall command.  Flo. 
You shall bind me to you,  
Daughter, I must have conference with you,  
About some matters that concerns us both.  
Good Master Doctor, please you but walk in,  
we'll crave a little of your cousins cunning:  
I think my Girl hath not quite forgot  
To touch an Instrument, she could have done't,  
we'll hear them both.  Rich. 
I'll wait upon you sir.  Exeunt. Enter Soranzo in his study reading a Book. 
love's measure is extreme, the comfort, pain:  
The life unrest, and the reward disdain  
What's here? look o'er again, 'tis so, so writes  
This smooth licentious Poet in his rhymes.  
But Sanazar thou liest, for had thy bosom  
Felt such oppression as is laid on mine,  
Thou wouldst have kissed the rod that made the smart.  
To work then happy Muse, and contradict  
What Sanazer hath in his envy writ.  
love's measure is the mean, sweet his annoys,  
His pleasure's life, and his reward all joys.  
Had Annabella lived when Sanazar  
Did in his brief Encomium celebrate  
Venice that Queen of Cities, he had left  
That Verse which gained him such a sum of Gold,  
And for one only look from Annabell  
Had writ of her, and her diviner cheeks,  
O how my thoughts are—  Vasques within— 
Pray forbear, in rules of Civility, lot me give notice on't: I shall be taxed of my neglect of duty and service.  Soran. 
What rude intrusion interrupts my peace,  
Can I be nowhere private?  Vas. within. 
Troth you wrong your modesty.  Soran. 
What's the matter Vasques, who is't?  Enter Hipplita and Vasques. Hip. 
'Tis I:  
Do you know me now? look perjured man on her  
Whom thou and thy distracted lust have wronged,  
Thy sensual rage of blood hath made my youth  
ascorn to men and Angels, and shall I  
Be now a foil to thy unsated change?  
Thou know'st (false wanton) when my modest fame  
Stood free from stain, or scandal, all the charms  
Of Hell or sorcery could not prevail  
Against the honour of my chaster bosom:  
Thine eyes did plead in tears, thy tongue in oaths  
Such and so many, that a heart of steel  
Would have been wrought to pity, as was mine:  
And shall the Conquest of my lawful bed,  
My husband's death urged on by his disgrace,  
My loss of womanhood be ill rewarded  
With hatred and contempt? No, know Soranzo,  
I have a spirit doth as much distaste  
The slavery of fearing thee, as thou  
Dost loathe the memory of what hath passed.  Soran. 
Nay dear Hippolita.  Hip. 
Call me not dear,  
Nor think with supple words to smooth the grossness  
Of my abuses; 'tis not your new Mistress,  
Your goodly Madam Merchant shall triumph  
On my dejection; tell her thus from me,  
My birth was Nobler, and by much more Free.  Soran. 
You are too violent.  Hip. 
You are too double  
In your dissimulation, seest thou this,  
This habit, these black mourning weeds of Care,  
'Tis thou art cause of this, and hast divorced  
My husband from his life and me from him,  
And made me Widow in my widowhood.  Soran. 
Will you yet hear?  Hip. 
More of the perjuries?  
Thy soul is drowned too deeply in those sins,  
Thou needest not add toth' number.  Soran. 
Then I'll leave you,  
You are past all rules of sense.  Hip. 
And thou of grace.  Vas. 
Fie Mistress, you, are not near the limits of reason, if my Lord had a resolution as noble as Virtue itself, you take the course to unedge it all. Sir I beseech you do not perplex her, griefs (alas) will have a vent, I dare undertake Madam Hippolita will now freely hear you.  Soran. 
Talk to a woman frantic, are these the fruits of your love?  Hip. 
They are the fruits of thy untruth, false man,  
Didst thou not swear, whilst no happiness on earth  
More than to call me wife? didst thou not vow  
When he should die to marry me? for which  
The Devil in my blood, and thy protests  
Caused me to Counsel him to undertake  
A voyage to Leghorn, for that we heard,  
His Brother there was dead, and left a Daughter  
Young and unfriended, who with much ado  
I wished him to bring hither; he did so,  
And went; and as thou know'st died on the way.  
Unhappy man to buy his death so dear  
With my advice; yet thou for whom I did it,  
Forgettest thy vows, and leav'st me to my shame.  Soran. 
Who could help this?  Hip. 
Who? perjured man thou couldst,  
If thou hadst faith or love.  Soran. 
You are deceived,  
The vows I made, (if you remember well)  
Were wicked and unlawful, 'twere more sin  
To keep them, than to break them; as for me  
I cannot mask my penitence, think thou  
How much thou hast digressed from honest shame,  
In bringing of a gentleman to death  
Who was thy husband, such a one as he,  
So noble in his quality, condition,  
Learning, behaviour, entertainment, love,  
As Parma could not show a braver man.  Vas, 
You do not well, this was not your promise.  Soran. 
I care not, let her know her monstrous life,  
Ere I'll be servile to so black a sin,  
I'll be a Curse; woman, come here no more,  
Learn to repent and die; for by my honour  
I hate thee and thy lust; you have been too foul.  Vas. 
This part has been scurvily played.  Hip. 
How foolishly this beast contemns his Fate,  
And shuns the use of that, which I more scorn  
Than I once loved his love; but let him go,  She offers to go away. 
My vengeance shall give comfort to his woe.  Vas. 
Mistress, Mistress Madam Hippolita,  
Pray a word or two.  Hip. 
With me Sir?  Vas. 
With you if you please.  Hip. 
What is't?  Vas. 
I know you are infinitely moved now, and you think you have cause, some I confess you have, but sure not so much as you imagine.  Hip. 
Indeed.  Vas. 
O you were miserably bitter, which you followed even to the last syllable: Faith you were somewhat too shrewd, by my life you could not have took my Lord in a worse time, since I first knew him: tomorrow you shall find him a new man.  Hip. 
Well, I shall wait his leisure.  Vas. 
Fie, this is not a hearty patience, it comes sourly from you, troth let me persuade you for once.  Hip. 
I have it and it shall be so; thanks opportunity  
— persuade me to what—  Vas. 
Visit him in some milder temper, O if you could but master a little your female spleen, how might you win him!  Hip. 
He will never love me: Vasques, thou hast been a too trusty servant to such a master, & I believe thy reward in the end will fall out like mine.  Vas. 
So perhaps too.  Hip. 
Resolve thyself it will; had I one so true, so truly honest, so secret to my Counsels, as thou hast been to him and his, I should think it a flight acquittance, not only to make him Master of all I have, but even of myself.  Vas. 
O you are a noble Gentlewoman.  Hip. 
wilt thou feed always upon hopes? well, I know thou art wise, and seest the reward of an old servant dally what it is  Vas. 
Beggary and neglect.  Hip. 
True, but Vasques, were't thou mine, and wouldst be private to me and my designs; I here protest myself, and all what I can else call mine, should be at thy dispose.  Vas. 
Work you that way old mole? than I have the wind of you— I were not worthy of it, by any desert that could lie— within my compass; if I could—  Hip. 
What then?  Vas. 
I should then hope to live in these my old years with rest and security.  Hip. 
Give me thy hand, now promise but thy silence,  
And help to bring to pass a plot I have;  
And here in sight of Heaven, (that being done)  
I make thee Lord of me and mine estate.  Vas. 
Come you are merry,  
This is such a happiness that I can  
Neither think or believe.  Hip. 
Promise thy secrecy, and 'tis confirmed.  Vas. 
Then here I call our good Genij foe-witnesses, whatsoever your designs are, or against whomsoever, I will not only be a special actor therein, but never disclose it till it be effected.  Hip. 
I take thy word, and with that, thee for mine:  
Come then, let's more confer of this anon.  
On this delicious bane my thoughts shall banquet,  
Revenge shall sweeten what my griefs have tasted.  Exeunt. Enter Richardetto and Philotis. Richar. 
Thou seest (my lovely Niece) these strange mishaps,  
How all my fortunes turn to my disgrace,  
Wherein I am but as a looker on,  
Whiles others act my shame, and I am silent.  Phi. 
But Uncle, wherein can this borrowed shape  
Give you content?  Richard. 
I'll tell thee gentle Niece,  
Thy wanton Aunt in her lascivious riots  
Lives now secure, thinks I am surely dead  
In my late journey to Leghorn for you;  
(As I have caused it to be rumoured out)  
Now would I see with what an impudence  
She gives scope to her loose adultery,  
And how the Common voice allows hereof:  
Thus far I have prevailed.  Phi. 
Alas, I fear  
You mean some strange revenge.  Richard. 
O be not troubled,  
Your ignorance shall plead for you in all,  
But to our business, what, you learned for certain  
How Signior Florio means to give his Daughter  
In marriage to Soranzo?  Phi. 
Yes for certain.  Richard. 
But how find you young Annabella's love,  
Inclined to him?  Phi. 
For aught I could perceive,  
She neither fancies him or any else.  Richard. 
There's Mystery in that which time must show,  
She used you kindly.  Phi. 
Yes.  Richard. 
And craved your company?  Phi. 
Often.  Richard. 
'Tis well, it goes as I could wish,  
I am the Doctor now, and as for you,  
None knows you; if all fail not we shall thrive.  
But who comes here?  Enter Grimaldi. 
I know him, 'tis Grimaldi,  
A Roman and a soldier, near allied  
Unto the Duke of Montferrato, one  
Attending on the Nuntio of the Pope  
That now resides in Parma, by which means  
He hopes to get the love of Annabella,  Gri. 
Save you Sir.  Richard. 
And you Sir.  Gri. 
I have heard  
Of your approved skill, which through the City  
Is freely talked of, and would crave your aid.  Richard. 
For what Sir?  Gri. 
Marry sir for this—  
But I would speak in Private.  Richard. 
Leave us cousin.  Exit Phi. Gri. 
I love fair Annabella, and would know  
Whether in Arts there may not be receipts  
To move affection.  Richard. 
Sir perhaps there may,  
But these will nothing profit you.  Gri. 
Not me?  Richard. 
Unless I be mistaken, you are a man  
Greatly in favour with the Cardinal.  Gri. 
What of that?  Richard. 
In duty to his Grace,  
I will be bold to tell you, if you seek  
To marry Florio's daughter, you must first  
Remove a bar 'twixt you and her.  Gri. 
whose's that?  Richard: 
Soranzo is the man that hath her heart,  
And while he lives, be sure you cannot speed.  Gri. 
Soranzo, what mine Enemy, is't he?  Richard. 
Is he your Enemy?  Gri. 
The man I hate,  
Worse than Confusion:  
I'll tell him straight.  Richard. 
Nay, then take mine advice,  
(Even for his grace's sake the Cardinal)  
I'll find a time when he and she do meet,  
Of which I'll give you notice, and to be sure  
He shall not scape you, I'll provide a poison  
To dip your rapier's point in, if he had  
As many heads as (Hydra had, he dies.  Gri. 
But shall I trust thee Doctor?  Richard. 
As yourself,  
Doubt not in aught; thus shall the Fates decree,  
By me Soranzo falls, that mined me.  Exeunt. Enter Donado, Bergetto and Peggio. Do. 
Well Sir, I must be content to be both your Secretary and your Messenger myself; I cannot tell what this Letter may work, but as sure as I am alive, if thou come over to talk with her, I fear thou wilt mar whatsoever I make.  Ber. 
You make Uncle? why am not I big enough to carry mine own Letter I pray?  Do. 
ay, I carry a fool's head o'thy own; why thou Dunce, wouldst thou write a letter, and carry it thyself  Ber. 
Yes that I would, and read it to her with my own mouth, for you must think, if she will not believe me myself when she hears me speak; she will not believe another's hand-writing. O you think I am a blockhead Uncle, no sir, Poggio knows I have indited a letter myself, so I have.  Pog. 
Yes truly sir, I have it in my pocket.  Do. 
A sweat one no doubt, pray let's see't.  Ber. 
I cannot read my own hand very well Poggio, Read it Poggio.  Do. 
Begin.  Poggio reads Pog. 
MOst dainty and honey-sweet Mistress,  
I could call you fair, and lie as fast as any that loves you, but my Uncle being the older man, I leave it to him, as more fit for his age, and the colour of his beard: I am wise enough to tell you I can board where I see occasion, or if you like my uncle's wit better than mine, you shall marry me; if you like mine better than his, I will marry you in spite of your teeth; So commending my best parts to you, I rest.  
Yours upwards and downwards, or you may chose, Bergetto.  Ber. 
Ah ha, here's stuff Uncle.  Do. 
Here's stuff indeed to shame us all,  
Pray whose advice did you take in this learned Letter?  Pog. 
None upon my word, but mine own.  Ber. 
And mine Uncle, believe it, nobody's else; 'twas mine own brain, I thank a good wit for't.  Do. 
Get you home sir, and look yond keep within doors till I return.  Ber. 
How? that were a jest indeed; I scorn it i'faith.  Do. 
What you do not?  Ber. 
Judge me, but I do now.  Pog. 
Indeed sir 'tis very unhealthy.  Do. 
Well sir, if I hear any of your apish running to motions, and fopperies till I come back, you were as good no; look to't.  Exit Do. Ber. 
Poggio, shall's steal to see this Horse with the head in's tail?  Pog. 
ay but you must take heeds of whipping.  Ber. 
Dost take me for a Child Poggio,  
Come honest Poggio,  Exeunt: Enter friar and Giovanni. Fry. 
Peace, thou hast told a tale, whose every word  
Threatens eternal slaughter to the soul:  
I'm sorry I have heard it; would mine ears  
Had been one minute deaf, before the hour  
That thou cam'st to me: o young man castaway,  
By the religious number of mine order,  
I day and might have waked my aged eyes,  
Above thy strength, to weep on thy behalf:  
But Heaven is angry, and be thou resolved,  
Thou art a man remarked to taste a mischief,  
Look for't; though it come late, it will come sure.  Gio. 
Father, in this you are uncharitable;  
What I have done, I'll prove both fit and good.  
It is a principal (which you have taught  
When I was yet your Scholar) that the Fame  
And Composition of the Mind doth follow  
The Frame and Composition of Body:  
So where the Body's furniture is Beauty,  
The Minds must needs be Virtue: which allowed.  
Virtue itself is Reason but refined,  
And Love the Quintessence of that, this proves  
My sister's Beauty being rarely Fair,  
Is rarely Virtuous; chiefly in her love,  
And chiefly in that Love, her love to me.  
If hers to me, then so is mine to her;  
Since in like Causes are effects alike.  Fry. 
O ignorance in knowledge, long ago,  
How often have I warned thee this before?  
Indeed if we were sure there were no Deity,  
Nor Heaven nor Hell, than to be led alone,  
By Nature's light (as were Philosophers  
Of elder times) might instance some defence.  
But 'tis not so; then Madman, thou wilt find,  
That Nature is in heavens' positions blind.  Gio. 
Your age o'er rules you, had you youth like mine,  
You'd make her love your heaven, and her divine.  Fry. 
Nay then I see thouart too far sold to hell,  
It lies not in the Compass of my prayers  
To call thee back; yet let me Counsel thee:  
Persuade thy sister to some marriage.  Gio. 
Marriage? why that's to damn her; that's to prove  
Her greedy of variety of lust.  Fry. 
O fearful! if thou wilt not, give me leave  
To shrive her; lest she should die unabsolved.  Gio. 
At your best leisure Father, then she'll tell you,  
How dearly she doth prize my Matchless love,  
Than you will know what pity 'twere we two  
Should have been sundered from each others arms.  
View well her face, and in that little round,  
You may observe a world of variety;  
For Colour, lips, for sweet perfumes, her breath;  
For jewels, eyes; for threads of purest gold,  
Hair; for delicious choice of Flowers, cheeks;  
Wonder in every portion of that Throne:  
Hear her but speak, and you will swear the Spheres  
Make Music to the Citizens in Heaven:  
But Father, what is else for pleasure framed,  
lest I offend your ears shall go unnamed.  Fry. 
The more I hear, I pity thee the more,  
That one so excellent should give those parts:  
All to a second Death; what I can do  
Is but to pray; and yet I could advise thee,  
Wouldst thou be ruled.  Gio. 
In what?  Fry. 
Why leave her yet,  
The Throne of Mercy is above your trespass,  
Yet time is left you both—  Gio. 
To embrace each other,  
Else let all time be struck quite out of number;  
She is like me, and I like her resolved.  Fry. 
No more, I'll visit her; this grieves me most,  
Things being thus, a pair of souls are lost.  Exeunt. Enter Florio, Donado, Annabella, Putana. Flo. 
Where's Giovanni?  Anna. 
Newly walked abroad,  
And (as I heard him say) gone to the Friar  
His reverent Tutor.  Flo. 
That's a blessed man,  
A man made up of holiness, I hope  
he'll teach him how to gain another world.  Do. 
Fair Gentlewoman, here's a letter sent:  
To you from my young cousin, I dare swear  
He loves you in his soul, would you could hear  
Sometimes, what I see daily, sighs and tears,  
As if his breast were prison to his heart.  Flo. 
Receive it Annabella.  Anna. 
Alas good man.  Do. 
What's that she said?  Pu. 
And please you sir, she said, alas good man, truly I do Commend him to her every night before her first sleep, because I would have her dream of him, and she harkens to that most religiously.  Do. 
sayst so, godamercy Putana there's something for thee, and prithee do what thou canst on his behalf; sha'not be lost labour, take my word for't.  Pu. 
Thank you most heartily sir, now I have a Feeling of your mind, let me alone to work.  Anna. 
Guardian!  Pu. 
Did you call?  Anna. 
Keep this letter,  Do. 
Signior Florio, in any case bid her read it instantly.  Flo. 
Keep it for what? pray read it me here right.  Anna. 
I shall sir,  She reads, Do. 
How d''ee find her inclined Signior  Flo. 
Troth sir I know not how; not all so well  
As I could wish.  Anna. 
Sir I am bound to rest your cousin's debtor,  
The jewel I'll return, for if he love,  
I'll count that love a jewel.  Do. 
Mark you that?  
Nay keep them both sweet Maid.  Anna. 
You must excuse me,  
Indeed I will not keep it.  Flo. 
Where's the Ring,  
That which your Mother in her will bequeathed,  
And charged you on her blessing not to give't  
To any but your Husband? send back that.  Anna. 
I have it not,  Flo. 
Ha I have it not, where is't?  Anna. 
My brother in the morning took it from me,  
Said he would wear't toDay.  Flo. 
Well, what do you say  
To young Bergetto's love? are you content  
To match with him? speak.  Do. 
There's the point indeed.  Anna. 
What shall I do, I must say something now.  Flo. 
What say, why d''ee not speak?  Anna. 
Sir with your leave  
Please you to give me freedom.  Flo. 
Yes you have.  Anna. 
Signior Donado, if your Nephew mean  
To raise his better Fortunes in his match,  
The hope of me will hinder such a hope;  
Sir if you love him, as I know you do;  
Find one more worthy of his choice then me,  
In short, I'm sure, I sha'not be his wife.  Do. 
Why here's plain dealing, I commend thee for't,  
And all the worst I wish thee, is heaven bless thee,  
Your Father yet and I will still be friends,  
Shall we not Signior Florio?  Flo. 
Yes, why not?  
Look here your cousin comes.  Enter Bergetto and Poggio. Do. 
Oh Coxcomb, what doth he make here?  Ber. 
Where's my Uncle sirs.  Do. 
What's the news now?  Ber. 
Save you Uncle save you, you must not think I come for nothing masters, and how and how is't? what you have read my letter, ah, there I— tickled you i'faith.  Pog. 
But 'twere better you had tickled her in another place.  Ber. 
Sirrah Sweetheart, I'll tell thee a good jest, and riddle what 'tis.  Anna. 
You say you'd tell me.  Ber. 
As I was walking just now in the Street, I met a swaggering fellow would needs take the wall of me, and because he did thrust me, I very valiantly called him Rogue, he hereupon bade me draw, I told him I had more wit than so, but when he saw that I would not, he did so maul me with the hilts of his Rapier, that my head sung whilst my fear capered in the kennel.  Do. 
Was ever the like ass seen?  Anna. 
And what did you all this while?  Ber. 
Laugh at him for a gull, till I see the blood run about mine ears, and then I could not choose but find in my heart to cry; till a fellow with a broad beard; (they say he is a new-come Doctor) called me into this house, and gave me a plaster, look you here 'tis; and sir there was a young wench washed my face and hands most excellently, i'faith I shall love her as long as I live for't, did she not Poggio?  Pog. 
Yes and kissed him too.  Ber. 
Why la now, you think I tell a lie Uncle I warrant.  Do. 
Would he that beat thy blood out of thy head, had beaten some wit into it; For I fear thou never wilt have any.  Ber. 
Oh Uncle, but there was a wench, would have done a man's heart good to have looked on her, by this light she had a face methinks worth twenty of you Mistress Annabella.  Do, 
Was ever such a fool borne?  Anna. 
I am glad she liked you sir.  Ber. 
Are you so, by my troth I thank you forsooth.  Flo. 
Sure 'twas the doctor's niece, that was last day with us here:  Ber. 
'Twas she, 'twas she.  Do. 
How do you know that simplicity?  Ber. 
Why does not he say so? if I should have said no, I should have given him the lie Uncle, and so have deserved a dry beating again; I'll none of that.  Flo. 
A very modest well-behaved young Maid as I have seen.  Do. 
Is she indeed?  Flo. 
Indeed She is, if I have any judgement.  Do. 
Well sir, now you are free, you need not care for sending letters, now you are dismissed, your Mistress here will none of you.  Ber. 
No; why what care I for that, I can have Wenches enough in Parma for half a Crown a piece, cannot I Poggio?  Pog. 
I'll warrant you sir.  Do. 
Signior Florio, I thank you for your free recourse you gave for my admittance; and to you fair Maid that jewel I will give you 'gainst your marriage, come will you go sir?  Ber. 
I marry will I Mistress, farewell Mistress, I'll come again tomorrow— farewell Mistress.  Exit Do. Ber. & Pog. Enter Gio. Flo. 
Son, where have you been? what alone, alone, still, still? I would not have it so, you must forsake this over bookish humour. Well, your Sister hath shaken the Fool off.  Gio. 
'Twas no match for her.  Flo. 
'Twas not indeed I meant it nothing less,  
Soranzo is the man I only like;  
Look on him Annabella, come, 'tis suppertime,  
And it grows late.  Exit Florio. Gio. 
Whose jewel's that?  Anna. 
Some Sweethearts.  Gio. 
So I think.  Anna. 
A lusty youth, Signior Donado gave it me  
To wear against my Marriage.  Gio. 
But you shall not wear it, send it him back again.  Anna. 
What, you are jealous?  Gio. 
That you shall know anon, at better leisure:  
Welcome sweet night, the Evening crown the Day.  Exeunt.  

Actus Tertius.  Enter Bergetto and Poggio. Ber. 
Does my Uncle think to make me a Baby still? no,  
Poggio, he shall know, I have a sconce now.  Pog. 
I let him not bob you off like an Ape with an apple.  Ber. 
'sfoot, I will have the wench, if he were ten Uncles, in despite of his nose Poggio.  Pog. 
Hold him to the Grindstone, and give not a jot of ground, She hath in a manner promised you already.  Pog. 
True Poggio, and her Uncle the Doctor  
Swore I should marry her.  Pog. 
He swore I remember.  Ber. 
And I will have her that's more; didst see the codpiece-point she gave me, and the box of marmalade?  Pog. 
Very well, and kissed you, that my chops watered at the sight on't; there's no way but to clap up a marriage in hugger-mugger.  Ber. 
I will do't for I tell thee Poggio, I begin to grow valiant methinks, and my courage begins to rise.  Pog. 
Should you be afraid of your Uncle?  Ber. 
Hang him old doting Rascal, no, I say I will have her.  Pog. 
Lose no time then.  Ber. 
I will beget a race of Wise men and Constables, that shall cart whores at their own charges, and break the Duke's peace ere I have done myself.— come away.  Exeunt. Enter Florio, Giovanni, Soranzo, Annabella, Putana and Vasques. Flo. 
My Lord Soranzo, though I must confess,  
The proffers that are made me, have been great  
In marriage of my daughter; yet the hope  
Of your still rising honours, have prevailed  
Above all other Jointures; here she is,  
She knows my mind, speak for yourself to her,  
And hear you daughter, see you use him nobly,  
For any private speech, I'll give you time:  
Come son and you, the rest let them alone,  
Agree as they may.  Soran. 
I thank you sir.  Gio. 
Sister be not all woman, think on me.  Soran. 
Vasques?  Vas. 
My Lord.  Soran. 
Attend me without—  Exeunt omnes, manet Soran. & Anna. Anna. 
Sir what's your will with me?  Soran. 
Do you not know what I should tell you?  Anna. 
Yes, you'll say you love me.  Soran. 
And I'll swear it too; will you believe it?  Anna. 
'Tis not point of faith.  Enter Giovanni above. Soran. 
Have you not will to love?  Anna. 
Not you.  Soran. 
Whom then?  Anna. 
That's as the Fates infer.  Gio. 
Of those I'm regent now.  Soran. 
What mean you sweet?  Anna. 
To live and die a Maid.  Soran. 
Oh that's unfit.  Gio. 
Here's one can say that's but a woman's note.  Soran. 
Did you but see my heart, then would you swear—  Anna. 
That you were dead.  Gio. 
That's true, or somewhat near it.  Soran. 
See you these true love's tears?  Anna. 
No.  Gio. 
Now she winks.  Soran. 
They plead to you for grace.  Anna. 
Yet nothing speak.  Soran. 
Oh grant my suit.  Anna. 
What is't  Soran. 
To let me live.  Anna. 
Take it—.  Soran. 
Still yours.—  Anna. 
That is not mine to give.  Gio. 
One such another word would kill his hopes.  Soran. 
Mistress, to leave those fruitless strifes of wit, I know I have loved you long, and loved you truly; Not hope of what you have, but what you are Have drawn me on, then let me not in vain Still feel the rigour of your chaste disdain. I'm sick, and sick to th'heart.  Anna. 
Help, Aquavitae  Soran. 
What mean you?  Anna. 
Why I thought you had been sick.  Soran. 
Do you mock my love?  Gio. 
There sir she was too nimble.  Soran. 
'Tis plain; she laughs at me, these scornful taunts neither become your modesty, or years.  Anna. 
You are no lookingglass, or if you were, I'd dress my language by you.  Gio. 
I'm confirmed—  Anna. 
To put you out of doubt, my Lord, methinks your Common sense should make you understand, that if I loved you, or desired your love, some way I should have given you better taste: but since you are a Noble man, and one I would not wish should spend his youth in hopes, let me advise you here, to forbear your suit, and think I wish you well, I tell you this.  Soran. 
Is't you speak this?  Anna. 
Yes, I myself; yet know  
Thus far I give you comfort, if mine eyes  
Could have picked out a man (amongst all those  
That sued to me) to make a husband of,  
You should have been that man; let this suffice,  
Be noble in your secrecy and wise.  Gio. 
Why now I see she loves me.  Anna. 
One word more:  
As ever Virtue lived within your mind,  
As ever noble courses were your guide.  
As ever you would have me know you loved me,  
Let not my Father know hereof by you:  
If I hereafter find that I must marry,  
It shall be you or none.  Soran. 
I take that promise.  Anna. 
Oh, oh my head.  Soran. 
What's the matter, not well?  Anna. 
Oh I begin to sicken.  Gio. 
Heaven forbid.  Exit from above. Soran. 
Help, help, within there ho.  Gio. 
Look to your daughter Signior Florio.  Enter Florio, Giovanni, Putana. Flo. 
Hold her up, she swoons.  Gio. 
Sister how d''ee?  Anna. 
Sick, brother, are you there?  Flo. 
Convey her to her bed instantly, whilst I send for a Physician, quickly I say.  Put. 
Alas poor Child.  Exeunt, manet Soranzo. Enter Vasques. Vas. 
My Lord.  Soran. 
Oh Vasques, now I doubly am undone.  
Both in my present and my future hopes:  
She plainly told me, that she could not love,  
And thereupon soon sickened, and I fear  
Her life's in danger.  Vas. 
By'r lady Sir, and so is yours, if you knew all.— 'las sir, I am sorry for that, may be 'tis but the maids' sickness, an overflux of youth, and then sir, there is no such present remedy, as present Marriage. But hath she given you an absolute denial?  Soran. 
She hath, and she hath not; I'm full of grief,  
But what she said, I'll tell thee as we go.  Exeunt. Enter Giovanni and Putana. Put. 
Oh sir, we are all undone, quite undone, utterly undone,  
And shamed forever; your sister, oh your sister.  Gio. 
What of her? for heaven's sake speak, how does she?  Put. 
Oh that ever I was borne to see this day.  Gio. 
She is not dead, ha, is she?  Put. 
Dead? no, she is quick, 'tis worse, she is with child,  
You know what you have done; Heaven forgive 'ee'em,  
'Tis too late to repent, now Heaven help us.  Gio. 
With child? how dost thou know't?  Put. 
How do I know't? am I at these years ignorant, what the meaning's of Quames, and Waterpangs be? of changing of Colours, queasiness of stomachs, Pukings, and another thing that I could name; do not (for her and your credit's sake) spend the time in asking how, and which way, 'tis so; she is quick upon my word, if you let a Physician see her water y'are undone.  Gio. 
But in what case is she?  Put. 
Prettily amended, 'twas but a fit which I soon espied, and she must look for often henceforward.  Gio. 
Commend me to her, bid her take no care,  
Let not the Doctor visit her I charge you,  
Make some excuse, till I return; oh me,  
I have a world of business in my head,  
Do not discomfort her; how do this news perplex me!  
If my Father come to her, tell him she's recovered well,  
Say 'twas but some ill diet; d''ee hear Woman,  
Look you to't.  Exeunt. Put. 
I will sir.  Enter Florio and Richardetto Flo. 
And how d''ee find her sir.  Richard. 
Indifferent well,  
I see no danger, scarce perceive she's sick,  
But that she told me, she had lately eaten  
mellowness, and as she thought, those disagreed  
With her young stomach.  Flo. 
Did you give her aught?  Richard. 
An easy surfeit water, nothing else,  
You need not doubt her health; I rather think  
Her sickness is a fullness of her blood,  
You understand me?  Flo. 
I do; you counsel well,  
And once within these few days, will so order't  
She shall be married, ere she know the time.  Richard. 
Yet let not haste (sir) make unworthy choice,  
That were dishonour.  Flo. 
Master Doctor no,  
I will not do so neither, in plain words  
My Lord Soranzo is the man I mean.  Richard. 
A noble and a virtuous Gentleman.  Flo. 
As any is in Parma; not far hence,  
Dwells Father Bonaventure, a grave friar,  
Once Tutor to my Son; now at his Cell  
I'll have'em married.  Richard. 
You have plotted wisely.  Flo. 
I'll send one straight  
To speak with him tonight.  Richard. 
Soranzo's wise, he will delay no time.  Flo. 
It shall be so.  Enter friar and Giovanni. Fry. 
Good peace be here and love.  Flo. 
Welcome religious friar, you are one,  
That still bring blessing to the place you come to.  Gio. 
Sir, with what speed I could, I did my best,  
To draw this holy man from forth his Cell,  
To visit my sick sister, that with words  
Of ghostly comfort in this time of need,  
He might absolve her, whether she live or die.  Flo. 
'Twas well done Giovanni, thou herein  
Hast showed a Christians' care, a Brother's love  
Come Father, I'll conduct you to her chamber,  
And one thing would entreat you.  Fry. 
Say on sir.  Flo. 
I have a Father's dear impression,  
And wish before I fall into my grave,  
That I might see her married, as 'tis fit;  
A word from you Grave man, will win her more,  
Than all our best persuasions.  Fry. 
Gentle Sir,  
All this I'll say, that Heaven may prosper her.  Exeunt. Enter Grimaldi. Gri. 
Now if the Doctor keep his word, Soranzo,  
Twenty to one you miss your Bride; I know  
'Tis an unnoble act, and not becomes  
A soldier's valour; but in terms of love,  
Where Merit cannot sway, Policy must.  
I am resolved, if this Physician  
Play not on both hands, then Soranzo falls.  Enter Richardetto. Richard. 
You are come as I could wish, this very night Soranzo,  
'tis ordained must be affied to Annabella; and for aught  
I know, married.  Gri. How! Richard. 
Yet your patience,  
The place, 'tis friar's bonaventure's Cell.  
Now I would wish you to bestow this night,  
In watching thereabouts, 'tis but a night,  
If you miss now, tomorrow I'll know all.  Gri. 
Have you the poison?  Richard. 
Here 'tis in this Box,  
Doubt nothing, this will do't; in any case  
As you respect your life, be quick and sure.  Gri. 
I'll speed him.  Richard. 
Do; away, for 'tis not safe  
You should be seen much here— ever my love.  Gri. 
And mine to you.  Exit Gri. Richard. 
So, if this be't, I'll laugh and hug revenge;  
And they that now dream of a wedding-feast,  
May chance to mourn the lusty Bridegroom's ruin.  
But to my other business; Niece Philotis.  Enter Philotis. Phi. 
Uncle.  Richard. 
My lovely Niece, you have bethought'ee.  Phi. 
Yes, and as you counselled,  
Fashioned my heart to love him, but he swears  
He will tonight be married; for he fears  
His Uncle else, if he should know the drift,  
Will hinder all, and call his coz to shrift.  Richard. 
tonight? why best of all; but let me see,  
I— ha— yes,— so it shall be; in disguise  
we'll early to the Friars, I have thought on't.  Enter Bergetto and Poggio Phi. 
Uncle, he comes.  Richard. 
Welcome my worthy coz.  Ber. 
I ass pretty Lass, come buss Lassae, a ha Poggio.  Phi. 
There's hope of this yet.  Richard. 
You shall have time enough, withdraw a little,  
we must confer at large.  Ber. 
Have you not sweetmeats, or dainty devices for me?  Phi. 
You shall enough Sweetheart.  Ber. 
Sweetheart, mark that Poggio; by my troth I cannot choose but kiss thee once more for that word Sweetheart; Poggio, I have a monstrous swelling about my stomach, whatsoever the matter be.  Pog. 
You shall have Physic for't sir.  Richard. 
Time runs apace.  Ber. 
Time's a blockhead.  Richard. 
Be ruled, when we have done what's fit to do,  
Than you may kiss your fill, and bed her too.  Exeunt. Enter the Friar in his study, sitting in a chair, Annabella kneeling and whispering to him, a Table before them and wax-lights, she weeps, and wrings her hands. Fry. 
I am glad to see this penance; for believe me,  
You have unripped a soul, so foul and guilty.  
As I must tell you true, I marvel how  
The earth hath borne you up, but weep, weep on,  
These tears may do you good; weep faster yet,  
Whiles I do read a Lecture.  Anna. 
Wretched creature.  Fry. 
ay, you are wretched, miserably wretched.  
Almost condemned alive; there is a place  
(List daughter) in a black and hollow Vault,  
Where day is never seen; there shines no Sun,  
But flaming horror of consuming Fires;  
A sightless sulphur, choked with smoky fogs  
Of an infected darkness; in this place  
Dwell many thousand, thousand sundry sorts  
Of never dying deaths; there damned fowls  
Roar without pity, there are Gluttons fed  
With Toads and Adders; there is burning Oil  
Poured down the Drunkard's throat, the Usurer  
Is forced to sup whole draughts of molten Gold;  
There is the Murderer forever stabbed,  
Yet can he never die; there lies the wanton  
On Racks of burning steel, whiles in his soul  
He feels the torment of his raging lust.  Anna. 
Mercy, oh mercy.  Fry. 
There stands these wretched things.  
Who have dreamt out whole years in lawless sheets  
And secret incests, cursing one another;  
Than you will wish, each kiss your brother gave,  
Had been a dagger's point; than you shall hear  
How he will cry, oh would my wicked sister  
Had first been damned, when she did yield to lust.  
But soft, methinks I see repentance work  
New motions in your heart, say? how is't with you?  Anna. 
Is there no way left to redeem my miseries?  Fry. 
There is, despair not; Heaven is merciful,  
And offers grace even now; 'tis thus agreed,  
First, for your honour's safety that you marry  
The Lord Soranzo, next, to save your soul,  
Leave off this life, and henceforth live to him.  Anna. 
Ay me.  Fry. 
Sigh not, I know the baits of sin  
Are hard to leave, oh 'tis a death to do't.  
Remember what must come, are you content?  Anna. 
I am.  Fry. 
I like it well, we'll take the time,  
Who's near us there?  Enter Florio, Giovanni. Flo. 
Did you call Father?  Fry. 
Is Lord Soranzo come?  Flo. 
he plays below.  Fry. 
Have you acquainted him at full?  Flo. 
I have and he is overjoyed.  Fry. 
And so are we: bid him come near.  Gio. 
My Sister weeping, ha? I fear this friar's falsehood,  
I will call him.  Exit. Flo. 
Daughter, are you resolved?  Anna. 
Father, I am.  Enter Giovanni, Soranzo, and Vasques. Flo. 
My Lord Soranzo, here  
Give me your hand, for that I give you this.  Soran. 
Lady, say you so too?  Anna. 
I do, and vow, to live with you and yours.  Fry. 
Timely resolved:  
My blessing rest on both, more to be done,  
You may perform it on the Morning-sun.  Exeunt. Enter Grimaldi with his Rapier drawn, and a Dark-lantern. Gri. 
'Tis early night as yet, and yet too soon  
To finish such a work; here I will lie  
To listen who comes next.  He lies down. Enter Bergetto and Philotis disguised, and after Richardetto and Poggio. Ber. 
we are almost at the place, I hope Sweetheart.  Gri. 
I hear them near, and heard one say Sweetheart,  
'Tis he; now guide my hand some angry justice  
Home to his bosom, now have at you sir.  strikes Ber. & Exit. Ber. 
Oh help, help, here's a stitch fallen in my guts,  
Oh for a Flesh-tailor quickly— Poggio.  Phi. 
What ails my love?  Ber. 
I am sure I cannot piss forward and backward and yet  
I am wet before and behind, lights, lights, ho lights.  Phi. 
Alas, some Villain here has slain my love.  Richard. 
Oh Heaven forbid it; raise up the next neighbours  
Instantly Poggio, and bring lights,  Exit Poggio. 
How is't Bergetto? slain?  
It cannot be; are you sure y'are hurt?  Ber. 
O my belly seethes like a Porridge-pot, some cold water I shall boil over else; my whole body is in a sweat, that you may wring my shirt; feel here— why Poggio.  Enter Poggio with Officers, and lights and halberds. Pog. 
Here; alas, how do you?  Richard. 
Give me a light, what's here? all blood! O sirs,  
Signior Donado's Nephew now is slain,  
Follow the murderer with all the haste  
Up to the City, he cannot be far hence,  
Follow I beseech you.  Officers. 
Follow, follow, follow.  Exeunt Officers. Richard. 
Tear off thy linen Couz, to stop his wounds,  
Be of good comfort man.  Ber. 
Is all this mine own blood? nay then goodnight with me, Poggio. commend me to my Uncle, dost hear? bid him for my sake make much of this wench, oh— I am going the wrong way sure, my belly aches so— oh farewell, Poggio— oh— oh—  dies. Phi. 
O he is dead.  Pog. 
How! dead!  Richard. 
he's dead indeed,  
'Tis now too late to weep, let's have him home,  
And with what speed we may, find out the Murderer.  Pog. 
Oh my Master, my Master, my Master.  Exeunt. Enter Vasques and Hippolita. Hip. 
Betrothed?  Vas. 
I saw it.  Hip. 
And when's the marriage-day?  Vas. 
Some two days hence.  Hip. 
Two days? Why man I would but wish two hours  
To send him to his last, and lasting sleep.  
And Vasques thou shalt see, I'll do it bravely.  Vas. 
I do not doubt your wisdom, nor (I trust) you my secrecy,  
I am infinitely yours.  Hip. 
I willbe thine in spite of my disgrace,  
So soon? o wicked man, I durst be sworn,  
he'd laugh to see me weep.  Vas. 
And that's a Villainous fault in him.  Hip. 
No, let him laugh, I'm armed in my resolves  
Be thou still true.  Vas. 
I should get little by treachery against so hopeful a preferment,  
as I am like to climb to.  Hip. 
even to my bosom Vasques, let My youth  
Revel in these new pleasures, if we thrive,  
He now hath but a pair of days to live.  Exeunt. Enter Florio, Donado, Richardetto, Poggio and Officers. Flo. 
'Tis bootless now to show yourself a child  
Signior Donado, what is done, is done;  
Spend not the time in tears, but seek for justice.  Richard. 
I must confess, somewhat I was in fault,  
That had not first acquainted you what love  
passed 'twixt him and my Niece, but as I live,  
His Fortune grieves me as it were mine own.  Do. 
Alas poor Creature, he meant no man harm,  
That I am sure of.  Flo. 
I believe that too;  
But stay my Masters, are you sure you saw  
The Murderer pass here?  Offic. 
And it please you sir, we are sure we saw a Ruffian  
with a naked weapon in his hand all bloody, get into my Lord  
cardinal's Graces gate, that we are sure of; but for fear of his  
Grace (bless us) we durst go no further.  Do. 
Know you what manner of man he was?  Offic. 
Yes sure I know the man, they say 'a is a soldier, he  
that loved your daughter Sir an't please ye, 'twas he for certain.  Flo. 
Grimaldi on my life.  Offic. 
ay, ay, the same.  Richard. 
The Cardinal is Noble, he no doubt  
Will give true justice.  Do. 
Knock some one at the gate,  Pog. 
I'll knock sir.  Poggio knocks. 
Servant within. What would'ee?  Flo. 
we require speech with the Lord Cardinal  
About some present business, pray inform  
His Grace, that we are here.  Enter Cardinal and Grimaldi. Car. 
Why how now friends? what saucy mates are you  
That know nor duty nor Civility?  
Are we a person fit to be your host?  
Or is our house become your common Inn  
To beat our doors at pleasure? what such haste  
Is yours as that it cannot wait fit times?  
Are you the Masters of this Commonwealth  
And know no more discretion? oh your news  
Is here before you, you have lost a Nephew  
Donado, last night by Grimaldi slain:  
Is that your business? well sir, we have knowledge on't.  
Let that suffice.  Gri. 
In presence of your Grace,  
In thought I never meant Bergetto harm,  
But Florio you can tell, with how much scorn  
Soranzo backed with his Confederates,  
Hath often wronged me; I to be revenged,  
(For that I could not win him else to fight)  
Had thought by way of Ambush to have killed him,  
But was unluckily, therein mistook;  
Else he had felt what late Bergetto did:  
And though my fault to him were merely chance,  
Yet humbly I submit me to your Grace,  
To do with me as you please.  Car. 
Rise up Grimaldi,  
You Citizens of Parma, if you seek  
For justice; Know as Nuntio from the Pope,  
For this offence I here receive Grimaldi  
Into his holiness' protection.  
He is no Common man, but nobly borne;  
Of PRINCE's blood, though you Sir Florio,  
Thought him to mean a husband for your daughter  
If more you seek for, you must go to Rome,  
For he shall thither; learn more wit for shame.  
Bury your dead— away Grimaldi— leave'em.  Ex. Car. & Gri. Do. 
Is this a churchman's voice? dwells justice here?  
Flo. justice is fled to Heaven and comes no nearer  
Soranzo, was't for him? O Impudence!  
Had he the face to speak it, and not blush?  
Come, come Donado, there's no help in this,  
When Cardinals think murder's not amiss,  
Great men may do there wills, we must obey,  
But Heaven will judge them for't another day.  Exeunt.  

Actus Quartus.  A Banquet. oboes. Enter the Friar, Giovanni, Annabella, Philotis, Soranz, Donado, Florio, Richardetto, Putana and Vasques. Fry. 
THese holy rights performed, now take your times,  
To spend the remnant of the day in Feast;  
Such fit repasts are pleasing to the Saints  
Who are your guests, though not with mortal eyes  
To be beheld; long prosper in this day  
You happy Couple, to each other's joy:  Soran. 
Father, your prayer is heard, the hand of goodness  
Hath been a shield for me against my death;  
And more to bless me, hath enriched my life  
With this most precious jewel; such a prize  
As Earth hath not another like to this.  
Cheer up my Love, and Gentlemen, my Friends,  
Rejoice with me in mirth, this day we'll crown  
With lusty Cups to Annabella's health.  Gio. 
Oh Torture, were the marriage yet undone,  Aside. 
Ere I'd endure this sight, to see my Love  
Clipped by another, I would dare Confusion,  
And stand the horror of ten thousand deaths.  Vas. 
Are you not well Sir?  Gio. 
Prithee fellow wait,  
I need not thy officious diligence.  Flo. 
Signior Donado, come you must forget  
Your late mishaps, and drown your cares in wine.  
So an. Vasques?  Vas. 
My Lord.  Soran. 
Reach me that weighty bowl,  
Here brother Giovanni, here's to you,  
Your turn comes next, though now a Bachelor,  
Here's to your sister's happiness and mine.  Gio. 
I cannot drink.  Soran. 
What?  Gio. 
'Twill indeed offend me  Anna. 
Pray, do not urge him if he be not willing.  Flo. 
How now, what noise is this?  Vas. 
O sir, I had forgot to tell you; certain young Maidens of Parma in honour to Madam Annabella's marriage, have sent their loves to her in a Masque, for which they humbly crave your patience and silence.  Soran. 
we are much bound to them, so much the more as it comes unexpected; guide them in.  oboes. Enter Hippolita and Ladies in white Robes with Garlands of Willows. Music and a Dance. Dance. Soran. 
Thanks lovely Virgins, now might we but know  
To whom we have been beholding for this love,  
we shall acknowledge it.  Hip. 
Yes, you shall know,  
What think you now?  
Omnes Hippolita?  Hip. 
'Tis she,  
be not amazed; nor blush young lovely Bride,  
I come not to defraud you of your man,  
'Tis now no time to reckon up the talk  
What Parma long hath rumoured of us both,  
Let rash report run on; the breath that vents it  
Will (like a bubble) break itself at last.  
But now to you Sweet Creature, lend's your hand,  
Perhaps it hath been said, that I would claim  
Some interest in Soranzo, now your Lord,  
What I have right to do, his soul knows best:  
But in my duty to your Noble worth,  
Sweet Annabella, and my care of you,  
Here take Soranzo, take this hand from me,  
I'll once more join, what by the holy Church  
Is finished and allowed; have I done well?  Soran. 
You have too much engaged us.  Hip. 
One thing more  
That you may know my single charity,  
Freely I here remit all interest  
I ere could claim; and give you back your vows,  
And to confirm't, reach me a Cup of wine  
My Lord Soranzo, in this draught I drink,  
Long res t'ee—  look to it Vasques. Vas. 
Fear nothing—  He gives her a poisoned Cup, She drinks. Soran. 
Hippolita, I thank you, and will pledge  
This happy Union as another life,  
Wine there.  Vas. 
You shall have none, neither shall you pledge her.  Hip. 
How!  Vas. 
Know now Mistress she devil, your own mischievous treachery  
Hath killed you, I must not marry you.  Hip. 
Villain.  Omnes. 
What's the matter?  Vas. 
Foolish woman, thou art now like a Firebrand, that hath kindled others and burned thyself; Troppo sperar niganna, thy vain hope hath deceived thee, thou art but dead, if thou hast any grace, pray.  Hip. 
Monster.  Vas. 
Die in charity for shame,  
This thing of malice, this woman had privately corrupted me with promise of malice, under this politic reconciliation to to poison my Lord, whiles she might laugh at his Confusion oh his marriage-day; I promised her fair, but I knew what my reward should have been, and would willingly have spared her life, but that I was acquainted with the danger of her disposition, and now have fitted her a just payment in her own coin, there she is, she hath yet— and end thy days in peace vild woman, as for life there's no hope, think not on't.  Omnes. 
Wonderful justice!  Richard. 
Heaven thou art righteous.  Hip. 
O 'tis true,  
I feel my minute coming, had that slave  
Kept promise, (o my torment) thou this hour  
Hadst died Soranzo— heat above hell fire—  
Yet ere I pass away— Cruel, cruel flames—  
Take here my curse amongst you; may thy bed  
Of marriage be a rack unto thy heart,  
Burn blood and boil in Vengeance— o my heart,  
My Flame's intolerable— mayst thou live  
To father Bastards, may her womb bring forth  
Monsters, and die together in your sins  
Hated, scorned and unpitied— oh— oh—  dies. Flo. 
Was e'er so vild a Creature?  Richard. 
Here's the end  
Of lust and pride.  Anna. It is a fearful sight. Soran. 
Vasques, I know thee now a trusty servant,  
And never will forget thee— come My Love,  
we'll home, and thank the Heavens for this escape,  
Father and Friends, we must break up this mirth,  
It is too sad a Feast.  Do. 
Bear hence the body.  Fry. 
Here's an ominous change,  
Mark this my Giovani, and take heed,  
I fear the event; that marriage seldom's good,  
Where the bride-banquet so begins in blood.  Exeunt. Enter Richardetto and Philotis. Richard. 
My wretched wife more wretched in her shame  
Then in her wrongs to me, hath paid too soon  
The forfeit of her modesty and life.  
And I am sure (my Niece) though vengeance hover,  
Keeping aloof yet from Soranzo's fall,  
Yet he will fall, and sink with his own weight.  
I need not (now my heart persuades me so)  
To further his confusion; there is one  
Above begins to work, for as I hear,  
Debate's already 'twixt his wife and him,  
Thicken and run to head; she (as 'tis said)  
Sleightens his love, and he abandons hers  
Much talk I hear, since things go thus (my Niece)  
In tender love and pity of your youth,  
My counsel is, that you should free your years  
From hazard of these woes; by flying hence  
To fair Cremona, there to vow your soul  
In holiness a holy Votaress,  
Leave me to see the end of these extremes  
All humane worldly courses are uneven,  
No life is blessed but the way to Heaven.  Phi. 
Uncle, shall I resolve to be a Nun?  Richard. 
I gentle Niece; and in your hourly prayers  
Remember me your poor unhappy Uncle;  
Hie to Cremona now, as Fortune leads,  
Your home, your cloister, your best Friends, your beads,  
Your chaste and single life shall crown your Birth,  
Who dies a Virgin, live a Saint on earth.  Phi. 
Then farewell world, and worldly thoughts adieu,  
Welcome chaste vows, myself I yield to you.  Exeunt. Enter Soranzo unbraced, and Annabella dragged in. Soran. 
Come strumpet, famous whore, were every drop  
Of blood that runs in thy adulterous veins  
A life, this Sword, (dost see't) should in one blow  
Confound them all, Harlot, rare, notable Harlot,  
That with thy brazen face maintainst thy sin  
Was there no man in Parma to be bawd  
To your loose cunning whoredom else but I?  
Must your hot itch and pleurisy of lust,  
The hey day of your luxury be fed  
Up to a surfeit, and could none but I  
Be picked out to be cloak to your close tricks,  
Your belly-sports? Now I must be the Dad  
To all that gallimaufry that's stuffed  
In thy Corrupted bastard-bearing womb,  
Shey, must I?  Anna. 
Beastly man, why 'tis thy fate:  
I sued not to thee, for, but that I thought  
Your Ever-loving Lordship would have run  
Mad on denial, had ye lent me time,  
I would have told 'ee in what case I was,  
But you would needs be doing.  Soran. 
Whore of whores!  
Dar'st thou tell me this?  Anna. 
O yes, why not?  
You were deceived in me; 'twas not for love  
I chose you, but for honour; yet know this,  
Would you be patient yet, and hide your shame,  
I'd see whether I could love you.  Soran. 
Excellent Quean!  
Why art thou not with Child?  Anna. 
What needs all this,  
When 'tis superfluous? I confess I am.  Soran. 
Tell me by whom.  Anna. 
Soft sir, 'twas not in my bargain.  
Yet somewhat sir to stay your longing stomach  
I'm content t'acquaint you with; The man,  
The more than Man that got this sprightly Boy,  
(For 'tis a Boy that for glory sir,  
Your heir shallbe a Son,)  Soran. 
Damnable Monster.  Anna. 
Nay and you will not hear, I'll speak no more.  Soran. 
Yes speak, and speak thy last.  Anna. 
A match, a match;  
This Noble Creature was in every part  
So angel-like, so glorious, that a woman,  
Who had not been but human as was I,  
Would have kneeled to him, and have begged for love.  
You, why you are not worthy once to name  
His name without true worship, or indeed,  
Unless you kneeled, to hear another name him.  Soran. 
What was he called?  Anna. 
we are not come to that,  
Let it suffice, that you shall have the glory,  
To Father what so Brave a Father got.  
In brief, had not this chance, fall'n out as't doth,  
I never had been troubled with a thought  
That you had been a Creature; but for marriage,  
I scarce dream yet of that.  Soran. 
Tell me his name.  Anna. 
Alas, alas, there's all  
Will you believe?  Soran. 
What?  Anna. 
You shall never know.  Soran. 
How!  Anna. 
Never,  
If you do, let me be cursed.  Soran. 
Not know it, Strumpet, I'll rip up thy heart,  
And find it there.  Anna. 
Do, do.  Soran. 
And with my teeth,  
Tear the prodigious lecher joint by joint.  Anna. 
Ha, ha, ha, the man's merry.  Soran. 
Dost thou laugh?  
Come Whore, tell me your lover, or by Truth  
I'll how thy flesh to shreds; who is't  Anna. 
Che morte pluis dolce che morire per amore.  sings. Soran. 
Thus will I pull thy hair, and thus I'll drag  
Thy lust beleaguered body through the dust.  
Yet tell his name.  Anna. 
Morendoin gratia Lei morirere senzadolore.  sings Soran. 
Dost thou Triumph? the Treasure of the Earth  
Shall not redeem thee, were there kneeling Kings,  
Did beg thy life, or Angels did come down  
To plead in tears, yet should not all prevail  
Against my rage; dost thou not tremble yet?  Anna. 
At what? to die; No, be a Gallant hangman  
I dare thee to the worst, strike, and strike home,  
I leave revenge behind, and thou shalt feel't.  Soran. 
Yet tell me ere thou diest, and tell me truly,  
Knows thy old Father this?  Anna. 
No by my life.  Soran. 
Wilt thou confess, and I will spare thy life?  Anna. 
My life? I will not buy my life so dear.  Soran. 
I will not slack my Vengeance.  Enter Vasques. Vas. 
What d''ee mean Sir?  Soran. 
Forbear Vasques, such a damned Whore  
Deserves no pity.  Vas. 
Now the gods forefend!  
And would you be her executioner, and kill her in your rage too? O 'twere most unmanlike; she is your wife, what faults hath been done by her before she married you, were not against you; alas Poor Lady, what hath she committed, which any Lady in Italy in the like case would not? Sir, you must be ruled by your reason, and not by your fury, that were unhuman and beastly.  Soran. 
She shall not live.  Vas. 
Come she must; you would have her confess the Authors of her present misfortunes I warrant'ee, 'tis an unconscionable demand, and she should lose the estimation that I (for my part) hold of her worth, if she had done it; why sir you ought not of all men living to know it: good sir be reconciled, alas good gentlewoman.  Anna. 
Pish, do not beg for me, I prize my life  
As nothing; if The man will needs be mad.  
Why let him take it.  Soran. 
Vasques, hear'st thou this?  Vas. 
Yes, and commend her for it; in this she shows the nobleness of a gallant spirit, and beshrew my heart, but it becomes her rarely— Sir, in any case smother your revenge; leave the scenting out your wrongs to me, be ruled as you respect your honour, or you mar all— Sir, if ever my service were of any Credit with you, be not so violent in your distractions: you are married now; what a triumph might the report of this give to other neglected Suitors, 'tis as manlike to bear extremities, as godlike to forgive.  Soran. 
O Vasques, Vasques, in this piece of flesh,  
This faithless face of hers, had I laid up  
The treasure of my heart; hadst thou been virtuous  
(Fair wicked woman) not the matchless joys  
Of Life itself had made me wish to live  
With any Saint but thee; Deceitful Creature,  
How hast thou mocked my hopes, and in the shame  
Of thy lewd womb, even buried me alive?  
I did too dearly love thee.  Vas. 
This is well;  
Follow this temper with some passion,  Aside. 
be brief and moving, 'tis for the purpose.  Soran. 
Be witness to my words thy soul and thoughts,  
And tell me didst not think that in my heart,  
I did too superstitiously adore thee.  Anna. 
I must confess, I know you loved me well.  Soran. 
And wouldst thou use me thus? O Annabella,  
be thus assured, whatsoe'er the Villain was,  
That thus hath tempted thee to This disgrace,  
Well he might lust, but never loved like me:  
He doted on the picture that hung out  
Upon thy cheeks, to please his humourous eye;  
Not on the part I loved, which was thy heart,  
And as I thought, thy Virtues.  Anna. 
O my Lord!  
These words wound deeper than your Sword could do.  Vas. 
Let me not ever take comfort, but I begin to weep myself, so much I pity him; why Madam I knew when his rage was overpast, what it would come to.  Soran. 
Forgive me Annabella, though thy youth  
Hath tempted thee above thy strength to folly,  
Yet will not I forget what I should be,  
And what I am, a husband; in that name  
Is hid Divinity; if I do find  
That thou wilt yet be true, here I remit all former faults, and take thee to my bosom.  Vas. 
By my troth, and that's a point of noble charity.  Anna. 
Sir on my knees—  Soran. 
Rise up, you shall not kneel,  
Get you to your chamber, see you make no show  
Of alteration, I'll be with you straight;  
My reason tells me now, that 'Tis as common  
To err in frailty as to be a woman,  
Go to your chamber.  Exit Anna. Vas. 
So, this was somewhat to the matter; what do you think of your heaven of happiness now sir?  Soran. 
I carry hell about me, all my blood  
Is fired in swift revenge.  Vas. 
That may be, but know you how, or on whom? alas, to marry a great woman, being made great in the stock to your hand, is a usual sport in these days; but to know what Secret it was that haunted your Cunny-berry, there's the cunning.  Soran. 
I'll make her tell herself, or—  Vas. 
Or what? you must not do so, let me yet persuade your sufferance a little while, go to her, use her mildly, win her if it be possible to a Voluntary, to a weeping tune; for the rest, if all hit, I will not miss my mark; pray sir go in, the next news I tell you shall be wonders.  Soran. 
Delay in vengeance gives a heavier blow.  Exit. Vas, 
Ah sirrah, here's work for the nonce; I had a suspicion of a bad matter in my head a pretty whiles ago; but after My madam's scurvy looks here at home, her waspish perverseness, and loud faultfinding, then I remembered the Proverb, that Where Hens crow, and Cocks hold their peace, there are sorry houses; 'sfoot, if the lower parts of a she-tailor's Cunning, can cover such a swelling in the stomach, I'll never blame a false stitch in a shoe whiles I live again; up and up so quick? and so quickly too? 'twere a fine policy to learn by whom this must be known: and I have thought on't— here's the way or none— what crying old Mistress! alas, alas, I cannot blame 'ee, we have a Lord, Heaven help us, is so mad as the devil himself, the more shame for him.  Enter Putana. Put. 
O Vasques, that ever I was borne to see this day,  
Doth he use thee so too, sometimes Vasques?  Vas. 
Me? why he makes a dog of me; but if some were of my mind, I know what we would do; as sure as I am an honest man, he will go near to kill my Lady with unkindness; say she be with-child, is that such a matter for a young woman of her years, to be blamed for?  Put. 
Alas good heart, it is against her will full sore.  Vas. 
I durst be sworn, all his madness is, for that she will not confess whose 'tis, which he will know, and when he doth know it, I am so well acquainted with his humour, that he will forget all straight; well I could wish, she would in plain terms tell all, for that's the way indeed.  Put. 
Do you think so?  Vas. 
Foe, I know't; provided that he did not win her to't by force, he was once in a mind, that you could tell, and meant to have wrung it out of you, but I somewhat pacified him for that; yet sure you know a great, deal.  Put. 
Heaven forgive us all, I know a little Vasques.  Vas. 
Why should you not? who else should? upon my Conscience she loves you dearly, and you would not betray her to any affliction for the world.  Put. 
Not for all the world by my Faith and troth Vasques.  Vas. 
'Twere pity of your life if you should, but In this you should both relieve her present discomforts, pacify my Lord, and gain yourself ever lasting love and preferment.  Put. 
Dost think so Vasques?  Vas. 
Nay I know't; sure 'twas some near and entire friend.  Put. 
'T was a dear friend indeed; but—  Vas. 
But what? fear not to name him: my life between you and danger; faith I think 'twas no base Fellow.  Put. 
Thou wilt stand between me and harm?  Vas. 
Uds pity, what else; you shallbe rewarded too; trust me.  Put. 
'Twas even no worse than her own brother.  Vas. 
Her brother Giovanni I warrant'ee?  Put. 
even he Vasques; as brave a Gentleman as ever kissed fair Lady; O they love most perpetually.  Vas. 
A brave Gentleman indeed, why therein I Commend her choice— better and better— you are sure 'twas he?  Put. 
Sure; and you shall'see he will not be long from her too.  Vas. 
He were to blame if he would: but may I believe thee?  Put. 
Believe me! why dost think I am a Turk or a jew? no Vasques, I have known their dealings too long to belie them now.  Vas. 
Where are you? there within sirs?  Enter Bandetti. Put. 
How now, what are these?  Vas. 
You shall know presently,  
Come sirs, take me This old Damnable hag,  
Gag her instantly, and put out her eyes, quickly, quickly.  Put. 
Vasques, Vasques.  Vas. 
Gag her I say 'sfoot d''ee suffer her to prate? what d''ee fumble about? let me come to her, I'll help your old gums, you Toad-bellied bitch; sirs, carry her closely into the Coal-house, and put out her eyes instantly, if she roars, slit her nose; d''ee hear, be speedy and sure. Why this is excellent and above expectation. Exit with Putana .Her own brother? O horrible! to what a height of liberty in damnation hath the Devil trained our age, her Brother, well; there's yet but a beginning, I must to my Lord, and tutor him better in his points of vengeance; now I see how a smooth tale goes beyond a smooth tail, but soft,— what thing comes next?  Enter Giovanni. 
Giovanni! as I would wish; my belief is strengthened,  
'Tis as firm as Winter and Summer.  Gio. 
Where's my Sister?  Vas. 
Troubled with a new sickness my Lord she's somewhat ill.  Gio. 
Took too much of the flesh I believe.  Vas. 
Troth sir and you I think have e'en hit it,  
But My virtuous Lady.  Gio. 
Where's she?  Vas. 
In her chamber; please you visit her; she is alone, your liberality hath doubly made me your servant, and ever shall ever— Exit Gio. Sir, I am made a man, I have plied my Cue with cunning Enter Soranzo. and success, I beseech you let's be private.  Soran, 
My Lady's brother's come, now he'll know all.  Vas. 
Let him know't, I have made some of them fast enough,  
How have you dealt with my Lady?  Soran 
Gently, as thou hast counselled; O my soul  
Runs circular in sorrow for revenge,  
But Vasques, thou shalt know—  Vas. 
Nay, I will know no more; for now comes your turn to know; I would not talk so openly with you: Let my young Master take time enough, and go at pleasure; he is sold to death, and the Devil shall not ransom him, Sir I beseech you, your privacy.  Soran. 
No Conquest can gain glory of my fear.  Exit.  

Actus Quintus.  Enter Annabella above. Anna. 
pleasure's farewell, and all ye thriftless minutes,  
Wherein False joys have spun a weary life,  
To these my Fortunes now I take my leave.  
Thou Precious Time, that swiftly rid'st in post  
Over the world, to finish up the race  
Of my last fate; here stay thy restless course,  
And bear to Ages that are yet unborn,  
A wretched woeful woman's Tragedy,  
My Conscience now stands up against my lust  
With dispositions charactered in guilt,  Enter friar. 
And tells me I am lost: Now I confess,  
Beauty that clothes the outside of the face,  
Is cursed if it be not clothed with grace:  
Here like a Turtle (mewed up in a Cage)  
Unmated, I converse with Air and walls,  
And descant on my vild unhappiness.  
O Giovanni, that hast had the spoil  
Of thine own virtues and my modest fame,  
Would thou hadst been less subject to those Stars  
That luckless reigned at my Nativity:  
O would the scourge due to my black offence  
Might pass from thee, that I alone might feel  
The torment of an uncontrolled flame.  Fry. 
What's this I hear?  Anna. 
That man, that Blessed Friar,  
Who joined in Ceremonial knot my hand  
To him whose wife I now am; told me oft,  
I trod the path to death, and showed me how.  
But they who sleep in Lethargies of Lust  
Hug their confusion, making Heaven unjust,  
And so did I.  Fry. 
Here's Music to the soul.  Anna. 
Forgive me my Good Genius, and this once  
Be helpful to my ends; Let some good man  
Pass this way, to whose trust I may commit  
This paper double lined with tears and blood:  
Which being granted; here I sadly vow  
Repentance, and a leaving of that life  
I long have died in.  Fry. 
Lady, Heaven hath heard you,  
And hath by providence ordained, that I  
should be his Minister for your behoof.  Anna. 
Ha, what are you?  Fry. 
Your brother's friend the Friar;  
Glad in my soul that I have lived to hear  
This free confession 'twixt your peace and you,  
What would you or to whom? fear not to speak.  Anna. 
Is Heaven so bountiful? than I have found  
More favour than I hoped; here Holy man— Throws a letter,  
Commend me to my Brother give him that,  
That Letter; bid him read it and repent,  
Tell him that I (imprisoned in my chamber,  
Bard of all company, even of My Guardian,  
Who gives me cause of much suspect) have time  
To blush at what hath passed: bid him be wise,  
And not believe the Friendship of my Lord,  
I fear much more than I can speak: Good father,  
The place is dangerous, and spies are busy,  
I must break off— you'll do't?  Fry. 
Be sure I will;  
And fly with speed— my blessing ever rest  
With thee my daughter, live to die more blessed.  Exit Fry. Anna. 
Thanks to the heavens, who have prolonged my breath  
To this good use: Now I can welcome Death.  Exit. Enter Soranzo and Vasques. Vas. 
Am I to be believed now?  
First, marry a strumpet that cast herself away upon you but to laugh at your horns? to feast on your disgrace, riot in your vexations, cuckold you in your bridebed, waste your estate upon Panders and Bawds?  Soran. 
No more, I say no more.  Vas. 
A Cuckold is a goodly tame beast my Lord.  Soran. 
I am resolved; urge not another word,  
My thoughts are great, and all as resolute  
As thunder; in mean time I'll cause our Lady  
To deck herself in all her bridal Robes,  
Kiss her, and fold her gently in my arms.  
Begone; yet hear you, are the Bandetti ready  
To wait in Ambush?  Vas. 
Good Sir, trouble not yourself about other business, than your own resolution; remember that time lost cannot be recalled.  Soran. 
With all the cunning words thou canst, invite  
The States of Parma to my birthday's feast,  
Haste to my Brother rival and his Father,  
Entreat them gently, bid them not to fail,  
be speedy and return.  Vas. 
Let not your pity betray you, till my coming back,  
Think upon Incest and Cuckoldry.  Soran. 
Revenge is all the Ambition I aspire,  
To that I'll climb or fall; my blood's on fire.  Exeunt. Enter Giovanni. Gio. 
Busy opinion is an idle Fool,  
That as a school-rod keeps a child in awe,  
Frights the unexperienced temper of the mind:  
So did it me; who ere My precious Sister  
Was married, thought all taste of love would die  
In such a Contract; but I find no change  
Of pleasure in this formal law of sports.  
she is still one to me, and every kiss  
As sweet, and as delicious as the first  
I reaped; when yet the privilege of youth  
Entitled her a Virgin. O the glory  
Of two united hearts like hers and mine!  
Let Poring bookmen dream of other worlds,  
My world, and all of happiness is here,  
And I'd not change it for the best to come,  
A life of pleasure is Elyzeum.  Enter friar. 
Father, you enter on the jubilee  
Of my retired delights; Now I can tell you,  
The hell you oft have prompted, is nought else  
But slavish and fond superstitious fear;  
And I could prove it too—  Fry. 
Thy blindness slays thee,  
Look there, 'tis written to thee.  Gives the Letter. Gio. 
From whom?.  Fry. 
Unrip the seals and see:  
The blood's yet seething hot, that will anon  
Be frozen harder than congealed Coral.  
Why d''ee change colour son?  Gio. 
Fore Heaven you make  
Some petty Devil factor twixt my love  
And your religion-masked sorceries.  
Where had you this?  Fry. 
Thy Conscience youth is seared,  
Else thou wouldst stoop to warning.  Gio. 
'Tis her hand,  
I know't; and 'tis all written in her blood.  
She writes I know not what; Death? I'll not fear  
An armed thunderbolt aimed at my heart.  
she writes we are discovered, pox on dreams  
Of low faint-hearted Cowardice: discovered?  
The Devil we are; which way is't possible?  
Are we grown Traitors to our own delights?  
Confusion take such dotage, 'tis but forged,  
This is your peevish chattering weak old man,  
Now sir, what news bring you?  Enter Vasques. Vas. 
My Lord, according to his yearly custom keeping this day a Feast in honour of his Birthday, by me invites you thither; your worthy Father with the pope's reverend Nuntio, and other Magnificoes of Parma, have promised their presence, wilt please you to be of the number?  Gio. 
Yes, tell them I dare come.  Vas. 
Dare come?  Gio. 
So I said; and tell him more I will come.  Vas. 
These words are strange to me.  Gio. 
Say I will come.  Vas. 
You will not miss?  Gio. 
Yet more, I'll come; sir, are you answered?  Vas. 
So I'll say— my service to you.  Exit Vas. Fry. 
You will not go I trust.  Gio. 
Not go? for what?  Fry. 
O do not go, this feast (I'll gauge my life)  
Is but a plot to train you to your ruin,  
Be ruled, you sha'not go.  Gio. 
Not go? stood Death  
Threatening his armies of confounding plagues,  
With hosts of dangers hot as blazing Stars,  
I would be there; not go? yes and resolve  
To strike as deep in slaughter as they all.  
For I will go.  Fry. 
Go where thou wilt, I see  
The wildness of thy Fare draws to an end,  
To a bad fearful end; I must not stay  
To know thy fall, back to Bononia I  
With speed will haste, and shun this coming blow.  
Parma farewell, would I had never known thee,  
Or aught of thine; well young man, since no prayer  
Can make thee safe, I leave thee to despair.  Exit Fry. 
Despair or tortures of a thousand hell's  
All's one to me; I have set up my rest.  
Now, now, work serious thoughts on baneful plots  
Be all a man my soul; let not the Curse  
Of old prescription rent from me the gall  
Of Courage, which enrolls a glorious death.  
If I must totter like a well-grown Oak,  
Some under shrubs shall in my weighty fall  
Be crushed to splits: with me they all shall perish.  Exit. Enter Soranzo, Vasques, and Bandetti. Soran. 
You will not sail, or shrink in the attempt?  Vas. 
I will undertake for their parts; be sure my Masters to be bloody enough, and as unmerciful, as if you were praying upon a rich booty on the very Mountains of Liguria; for your pardons trust to my Lord; but for reward you shall trust none but your own pockets.  Ban. omnes. 
we'll make a murder.  Soran. 
Here's gold, here's more; want nothing, what you do is noble, and an act of brave revenge.  
I'll make ye rich Bandetti and all Free.  Omnes. 
Liberty, liberty.  Vas. 
Hold, take every man a Vizard; when ye are with drawn, keep as much silence as you can possibly: you know the watchword, till which be spoken move not, but when you hear that, rush in like a stormy-flood; I need not instruct ye in your own profession.  Omnes. 
No, no, no.  Vas. 
In then, your ends are profit and preferment— away.  Exit Bandetti. Soran. 
The guests will all come Vasques?  Vas. 
Yes sir, and now let me a little edge your resolution; you see nothing is unready to this Great work, but a great mind in you: Call to your remembrance your disgraces, your loss of Honour, Hippolita's blood; and arm your courage in your own wrongs, so shall you best right those wrongs in vengeance which you may truly call Your own.  Soran. 
'Tis well; the less I speak, the more I burn, and blood shall quench that flame.  Vas. 
Now you begin to turn Italian, this beside, when my young Incest-monger comes, he willbe sharp set on his old bit: give him time enough, let him have your Chamber and bed at liberty; let my Hot Hare have law ere he be hunted to his death, that if it be possible, he may post to Hell in the very Act of his damnation.  Enter Giovanni. Soran. 
It shall be so; and see as we would wish,  
He comes himself first; welcome my Much-loved brother,  
Now I perceive you honour me; y'are welcome,  
But where's my father?  Gio. 
With the other States,  
Attending on the Nuntio of the Pope  
To wait upon him hither; how's my sister?  Soran. 
Like a good housewife scarcely ready yet,  
Y'are best walk to her chamber.  Gio. 
If you will.  Soran. 
I must expect my honourable Friends,  
Good brother get her forth.  Gio. 
You are busy Sir.  Exit Giovanni. Vas. 
even as the great Devil himself would have it, let him go and glut himself in his own destruction; hark, the Nuncio is at hand; good sir be ready to receive him.  flourish. Enter Cardinal, Florio, Donado, Richardetto and Attendants. Soran. 
Most reverend Lord, this grace hath made me proud,  
That you vouchsafe my house; I ever rest  
Your humble servant for this Noble Favour.  Car. 
You are our Friend my Lord, his holiness  
Shall understand, how zealously you honour  
Saint Peter's Vicar in his substitute  
Our special love to you.  Soran. 
Signiors to you  
My welcome, and my ever best of thanks  
For this so memorable courtesy,  
Pleaseth your Grace to walk near?  Car. 
My Lord, we come  
To celebrate your Feast with Civil mirth,  
As ancient custom teacheth: we will go.  Soran. 
Attend his grace there, Signiors keep your way.  Exeunt Enter Giovanni and Annabella lying on a bed. Gio. 
What changed so soon? hath your new sprightly Lord  
Found out a trick in night-games more than we  
Could know in our simplicity? ha! is't so?  
Or does the fit come on you, to prove treacherous  
To your past vows and oaths?  Anna. 
Why should you jest  
At my Calamity, without all sense  
Of the approaching dangers you are in?  Gio. 
What danger's half so great as thy revolt?  
Thou art a faithless sister, else thou know'st,  
Malice, or any treachery beside  
Would stoop to my bent-brows; why I hold Fate  
Clasped in my fist, and could Command the Course  
Of times eternal motion; hadst thou been,  
One thought more steady than an ebbing Sea.  
And what? you'll now be honest, that's resolved?  Anna. 
Brother, dear brother, know what I have been;  
And know that now there's but a dying time  
Twixt us and our Confusion: let's not waste  
These precious hours in vain and useless speech.  
Alas, these gay attires were not put on  
But to some end; this sudden solemn Feast  
Was not ordained to riot in expense:  
That have now been chambered here alone,  
Bard of my Guardian, or of any else,  
Am not for nothing at an instant freed  
To fresh access; be not deceived My Brother,  
This Banquet is an harbinger of Death  
To you and me, resolve yourself it is,  
And be prepared to welcome it.  Gio. 
Well then,  
The Schoolmen teach that all this Globe of earth  
shallbe consumed to ashes in a minute.  Anna. 
So I have read too.  Gio. 
But 'twere somewhat strange  
To see the Waters burn, could I believe  
This might be true, I could believe as well  
There might be hell or Heaven.  Anna. 
That's most certain.  Gio 
A dream, a dream; else in this other world  
we should know one another.  Anna. 
So we shall.  Gio. 
Have you heard so?  Anna. 
For certain.  Gio. 
But d''ee think,  
That I shall see you there,  
You look on me,  
May we kiss one another,  
Prate or laugh,  
Or do as we do here?  Anna. 
I know not that,  
But good for the present, what d''ee mean  
To free yourself from danger? some way, think  
How to escape; I'm sure the guests are come.  Gio. 
Look up, look here; what see you in my face?  Anna. 
Distraction and a troubled Countenance.  Gio. 
Death and a swift repining wrath— yet look,  
What see you in mine eyes?  Anna. 
Methinks you weep.  Gio. 
I do indeed; these are the funeral tears  
Shed on your grave, these furrowed up my cheeks  
When first I loved and knew not how to woe.  
Fair Annabella, should I here repeat  
The Story of my life, we might lose time.  
Be record all the spirits of the Air,  
And all things else that are; that Day and Night,  
Early and late, the tribute which my heart  
Hath paid to Annabella's sacred love,  
Hath been these tears, which are her mourners now:  
Never till now did Nature do her best,  
To show a matchless beauty to the world,  
Which in an instant, ere it scarce was seen,  
The jealous Destinies require again.  
Pray Annabella, pray; since we must part,  
Go thou white in thy soul, to fill a Throne  
Of Innocence and Sanctity in Heaven.  
Pray, pray my Sister.  Anna. 
Then I see your drift,  
Ye blessed Angels, guard me.  Gio. 
So say I,  
Kiss me; if ever after times should hear  
Of our fast-knit affections, though perhaps  
The Laws of Conscience and of Civil use  
May justly blame us, yet when they but know  
Our loves, That love will wipe away that rigour,  
Which would in other Incests be abhorred.  
Give me your hand; how sweetly Life doth run  
In these well coloured veins! how constantly  
These Palms do promise health! but I could chide  
With Nature for this Cunning flattery,  
Kiss me again— forgive me.  Anna. 
With my heart.  Gio. 
Farewell.  Anna. 
Will you begone?  Gio. 
Be dark bright Sun,  
And make this midday night, that thy guilt rays  
May not behold a deed, will turn their splendour  
More sooty, than the Poets feign their Styx.  
One other kiss my Sister.  Anna. 
What means this?  Gio. 
To save thy fame and kill thee in a kiss.  stabs her. 
Thus die, and die by me, and by my hand,  
Revenge is mine; Honour doth love Command.  Anna. 
Oh brother by your hand?  Gio. 
When thou art dead:  
I'll give my reasons for't; for to dispute  
With thy (even in thy death) most lovely beauty,  
Would make me stagger to perform this act  
Which I most glory in.  Anna. 
Forgive him Heaven— and me my sins, farewell.  
Brother unkind, unkind— mercy great Heaven— oh— oh.  dies. Gio. 
she's dead, alas good soul; The hapless Fruit  
That in her womb received its life from me,  
Hath had from me a Cradle and a Grave.  
I must not dally, this sad Marriage-bed  
In all her best, bore her alive and dead.  
Soranzo thou hast missed thy aim in this,  
I have prevented now thy reaching plots,  
And killed a Love, for whose each drop of blood  
I would have pawned my heart; Fair Annabella,  
How over-glorious art thou in thy wounds,  
Triumphing over infamy and hate!  
Shrink not Courageous hand, stand up my heart,  
And boldly act my last, and greater part.  Exit with the Body. A Banquet. Enter Cardinal, Florio, Donado, Soranzo, Richardetto, Vasques and attendants; They take their places. Vas. 
Remember Sir what you have to do, be wise and resolute.  Soran. 
Enough— my heart is fixed, pleaseth Your Grace  
To taste these Course Confections; though the use  
Of such set entertainments more consists  
In Custom, then in Cause; yet Reverend Sir,  
I am still made your servant by your presence.  Car. 
And we your Friend.  Soran. 
But where's my Brother Giovanni?  Enter Giovanni with at heart upon his Dagger. Gio. 
Here, here Soranzo; trimmed in reeking blood,  
That triumphs over death; proud in the spoil  
Of Love and Vengeance, Fate or all the Powers  
That guide the motions of immortal Souls  
Could not prevent me.  Car. 
What means this?  Flo. 
Son Giovanni?  Soran. 
Shall I be forestalled?  Gio. 
Be not amazed: If your misgiving hearts  
Shrink at an idle sight; what bloodless Fear  
Of Coward passion would have ceased your senses,  
Had you beheld the Rape of Life and Beauty  
Which I have acted? my sister, oh my sister,  Flo. 
Ha! What of her?  Gio. 
The Glory of my Deed  
Darkened the midday Sun, made Noon as Night.  
You came to feast My Lords with dainty fare,  
I came to feast too, but I digged for food  
In a much richer Mine then Gold or Stone  
Of any value balanced; 'tis a Heart,  
A Heart my Lords, in which is mine entombed,  
Look well upon't; d''ee know't?  Vas. 
What strange riddle's this?  Gio. 
'Tis Annabella's Heart, 'tis; why d''ee startle?  
I vow 'tis hers, this dagger's point ploughed up  
Her fruitful womb, and left to me the fame  
Of a most glorious executioner.  Flo. 
Why madman, art thyself?  Gio. 
Yes Father, and that times to come may know,  
How as my Fate I honoured my revenge:  
Lift Father, to your ears I will yield up  
How much I have deserved to be your son.  Flo. 
What is't thou sayst?  Gio. 
Nine Moons have had their changes,  
Since I first throughly viewed and truly loved  
Your Daughter and my Sister.  Flo. 
How! alas my Lords, he's a frantic madman!  Gio. 
Father no;  
For nine months' space, in secret I enjoyed  
Sweet Annabella's sheets; Nine Months I lived  
A happy Monarch of her heart and her,  
Soranzo, thou know'st this; thy paler cheek  
Bears the Confounding print of thy disgrace,  
For her too fruitful womb too soon bewrayed  
The happy passage of our stolen delights,  
And made her Mother to a Child unborn.  Car. 
Incestuous Villain.  Flo. 
Oh his rage belies him.  Gio. 
It does not, 'tis the Oracle of truth,  
I vow it is so.  Soran. 
I shall burst with fury,  
Bring the strumpet forth.  Vas. 
I shall Sir.  Exit Vas. Gio. 
Do sir, have you all no faith  
To credit yet my Triumphs? here I swear  
By all that you call sacred, by the love  
I bore my Annabella whilst she lived,  
These hands have from her bosom ripped this heart.  
Is't true or no sir?  Enter Vas. Vas. 
'Tis most strangely true.  Flo. 
Cursed man— have I lived to—  dies. Car. 
Hold up Florio,  
Monster of Children, see what thou hast done,  
Broke thy old Father's heart; is none of you  
Dares venture on him?  Gio. 
Let 'em; oh my Father,  
How well his death becomes him in his griefs!  
Why this was done with Courage; now survives  
None of our house but I, guilt in the blood  
Of a Fair sister and a Hapless Father.  Soran. 
inhuman scorn of men, hast thou a thought  
T'outlive thy murders?  Gio. 
Yes, I tell thee yes;  
For in my fists I bear the twists of life,  
Soranzo, see this heart which was thy wives,  
Thus I exchange it royally for thine,  
And thus and thus, now brave revenge is mine.  Vas. 
I cannot hold any longer; you sir, are you grown insolent in your butcheries? have at you.  Fight. Gio. 
Come, I am armed to meet thee.  Vas. 
No, will it not be yet? if this will not, another shall,  
Not yet; I shall fit you anon—  Vengeance. Enter Bandetti. Gio. 
Welcome, come more of you whate'er you be,  
I dare your worst—  
Oh I can stand no longer, Feeble arms  
Have you so soon lost strength.  Vas. 
Now, you are welcome Sir,  
Away my Masters, all is done,  
Shift for yourselves, your reward is your own,  
Shift for yourselves.  Ban. 
Away, away.  Exeunt Bandetti. Vas. 
How d''ee my Lord, see you this? how is't?  Soran. 
Dead; but in death well pleased, that I have lived  
To see my wrongs revenged on that Black Devil.  
O Vasques, to thy bosom let me give  
My last of breath, let not that Lecher live— oh  dies. Vas. 
The Reward of peace and rest be with him,  
My ever dearest Lord and Master.  Gio. 
Whose hand gave me this wound?  Vas. 
Mine Sir, I was your first man, have you enough?  Gio. 
I thank thee, thou hast done for me but what I would have else done on myself, art sure thy Lord is dead?  Vas. 
Oh Impudent slave, as sure as I am sure to see the die,  Car. 
Think on thy life and end, and call for mercy.  Gio. 
Mercy? why I have found it in this justice.  Car. 
Strive yet to cry to Heaven.  Gio. 
Oh I bleed fast,  
Death, thou art a guest long looked for, I embrace  
Thee and thy wounds; oh my last minute comes.  
where'er I go, let me enjoy this grace,  
Freely to view My Annabella's face.  dies. Do. 
Strange Miracle of justice!  Car. 
Raise up the City, we shall be murdered all.  Vas. 
You need not fear, you shall not; this strange task being ended, I have paid the Duty to the Son, which I have vowed to the Father.  Car. 
Speak wretched Villain, what incarnate Fiend  
Hath led thee on to this?  Vas. 
Honesty, and pity of my master's wrongs; for know My Lord. I am by birth a Spaniard, brought forth my Country in my youth by Lord Soranzo's Father; whom whilst he lived, I served faithfully; since whose death I have been to this man, as I was to him; what I have done was duty, and I repent nothing, but that the loss of my life had not ransomed his.  Car. 
Say Fellow, know'st thou any yet unnamed  
Of Counsel in this Incest?  Vas. 
Yes, an old woman, sometimes Guardian to this murthered Lady.  Car. 
And what's become of her?  Vas. 
Within this Room she is, whose eyes after her confession I caused to be put out, but kept alive, to confirm what from Giovanni's own mouth you have heard: now My Lord, what I have done, you may judge of, and let your own wisdom be a judge in your own reason.  Car. 
Peace; First this woman chief in these effects,  
My sentence is, that forthwith she be ta'en  
Out of the City, for example's sake,  
There to be burnt to ashes.  Do. 
'Tis most just.  Car. 
Be it your charge Donado, see it done.  Do. 
I shall.  Vas. 
What for me? if death, 'tis welcome, I have been honest to the Son, as I was to the Father.  Car. 
Fellow, for thee; since what thou didst, was dove  
Not for thyself, being no Italian,  
we banish thee for ever, to depart  
Within three days, in this we do dispense  
With grounds of reason not of thine offence.  Vas. 
'Tis well; this Conquest is mine, and I rejoice that a  
Spaniard outwent an Italian in revenge.  Exit Vas. Car. 
Take up these slaughtered bodies, see them buried,  
And all the Gold and jewels, or whatsoever,  
Confiscate by the Canons of the Church,  
we cease upon to the pope's proper use.  Richar. 
Your grace's pardon, thus long I lived disguised  
To see the effect of Pride and Lust at once  
Brought both to shameful ends.  Car. 
What Richardetto whom we thought for dead?  Do. 
Sir was it you—  Richar. 
Your friend.  Car. 
we shall have time  
To talk at large of all, but never yet  
Incest and Murder have so strangely met.  
Of one so young, so rich in Nature's store,  
Who could not say, 'Tis pity she's a Whore?  Exeunt. 
FINIS.    

The general Commendation deserved by the Actors, in their Presentment of this Tragedy, may easily excuse such few faults, as are escaped in the Printing: A common charity may allow him the ability of spelling, whom a secure confidence assures that he cannot ignorantly err in the Application of Sense.