Cupid's REVENGE.  
As it hath been divers times Acted by the Children of her majesties Revels.  
¶ By john Fletcher.  
LONDON Printed by Thomas Creed for johas Harison, and are to be sold at the Golden Anchor in Pater-Noster-Row. 1615.   

The Printer to the Reader.  
IT is a custom used by some Writers in this Age to Dedicate their Plays to worthy persons, as well as their other works; and there is reason for it, because they are the best Minerva's of their brain, and express more purity of conceit in the ingenious circle of an Actor Scene, then is to be found in the vast circumference of larger Volumes; and therefore worthy an answerable Maecenas, to honour and be honoured by them. But not having any such Epistle from the Author (in regard I am not acquainted with him) I have made belde myself, without his consent to dedicate this Play to the judicious in general, of what degree soever; not insinuating herein with any, he they never so great, that want judgement, for to them it belongs not, though they pay for it, more than in this respect, that like Aesop's Cock, having met with a precious Stone by accident, they knew not the true use thereof, but had rather have a Barleycorn to their humour, than a perfect Diamond. But leaving them to their ignorance, I once again dedicate this Book to the judicious, somewhere of I have heard commend it to be excellent, who, because they saw it Acted, and knew what they spoke, are the better to be believed: and for my part I censure it thus, That I never read a better   

Cupid's revenge.  

¶ Act. pri. Sceana. pri.  Enter Dorialus, Agenor, Nisus. Agenor. 
TRust me my Lord Dorialus, I had missed of this if you had not called me, I thought the princess's birth day had been tomorrow.  Nisus. 
Why, did your Lordship sleep out the day?  Dor. 
I marvel what the Duke meant to make such an idle vow.  Nis. 
Idle, why?  Dor. 
Is't not idle, to swear to grant his Daughter any thing she shall ask on her birth day? she may ask an impossible thing: and I pray heaven she do not ask an unfit thing at one time or other; 'tis dangerous trusting a man's vow upon the discretion on's daughter.  Age. 
I wonder most at the marquis her brother, who is always vehemently forward to have her desires granted.  Dor. 

he's acquainted with 'em before.   Age. 

she's doubtless very chaste and virtuous.   Dor. 

So is Leucippus her Brother.   Nis. 

she's twenty year old, I wonder  
She ask not a Husband.   Dor. 

That were a folly in her, having refused all the  
Great Princes in one part of the world:  
she'll die a Maid.   Age. 

She may ask but one, may she?   Nis. 

A hundred times this day if she will;  
And indeed, every day is such a day, for though  
The Duke has vowed it only on this day,  
He keeps it every day: he can deny  
Her nothing.   Cornets. Enter Hidaspes, Leucippus, Leontius, Timantus, Tellamon. Leon. 

Come fair Hidaspes, thou art  
Duchess today,  
Art thou prepared to ask, thou knowest  
My oath will force performance.  
And Leucippus, if she now ask aught that shall,  
Or would have performance  
After my death, when by the help of heaven,  
This Land is thine, accursed be thy race,  
May every one forget thou art my son,  
And so their own obedience.   Leuci. 

Mighty Sir,  
I do not wish to know that fatal hour,  
That is to make me King, but if I do,  
I shall most hastily (and like a son)  
Perform your grants to all, chiefly to her:  
Remember that you ask what we  
Agreed upon.   Leon. 

Are you prepared? then speak.   Hida. 

Most Royal Sir, I am prepared,  
Nor shall my will exceed a virgin's bounds,  
What I request shall both at once bring  
Me a full content.   Leon. 

So it ever does:  
Thou only comfort of my feeble age,  
Make known thy good desire,  
For I dare swear thou lov'st me.   Hidas. 

This is it I beg,  
And on my knees. The people of your Land,  
The Lycians, are through all the Nations  
That know their name, noted to have in use  
A vain and fruitless Superstition;  
So much more hateful, that it bears the show  
Of true Religion, and is nothing else  
But a self-pleasing bold lasciviousness.   Leon. 

What is it?   Hidas. 

Many Ages before this,  
When every man got to himself a Trade,  
And was laborious in that chosen course,  
Hating an idle life, far worse than death:  
Some one that gave himself to wine and sloth,  
Which breed lascivious thoughts;  
And found himself conjoined  
For that by every painful man,  
To take his stain away, framed to himself  
A god, whom he pretended to obey,  
In being thus dishonest, for a name  
He called him Cupid. This created god,  
Man's nature being ever credulous  
Of any vice that takes part with his blood,  
Had ready followers enough: and since  
In every age they grew, especially  
Amongst your Subjects, who do yet remain  
Adorers of that drowsy Deity:  
Which drink invented: and the winged Boy,  
(For so they call him) has his sacrifices.  
These loose naked statutes through the Land,  
And in every Village, nay the palace  
Is not free from'em. This is my request,  
That these erected obscene Images  
May be plucked down and burnt: and every man  
That offers to'em any sacrifice, may lose his life.   Leon. 

But be advised my fairest daughter, if he be  
A god, he will express it upon thee my child:  
Which heaven avert.   Leucip. 

There is no such power:  
But the opinion of him fills the Land  
With lustful sins: every young man and maid  
That feel the least desire to one another,  
Dare not suppress it, for they think it is  
Blind Cupid's motion: and he is a god.   Leon. 

This makes our youth unchaste. I am resolved:  
Nephew Ismenus, break the Statues down  
Here in the palace, and command the City  
Do the like, let proclamations  
Be drawn, and hastily sent through the Land  
To the same purpose.   Ismen. 

Sir, I will break down none myself,  
But I will deliver your command:  
Hand I will have none in't, for I like it not.   Leon. 

Go and command it. Pleasure of my life,  
Wouldst thou aught else? Make many thousand suits,  
They must and shall be granted.   Hid. 

Nothing else.   Ezit Ismenus. Leon. 

But go and meditate on other suits,  
Some six days hence I'll give thee audience again,  
And by a new oath bind myself to keep it:  
Ask largely for thyself, dearer than life  
In whom I may be bold to call myself,  
More fortunate than any in my age,  
I will deny thee nothing.   Leu. 

'twas well done Sister.   Exeunt all but these three Lords. Nis. 

How like you this request my Lords?   Dor. 

I know not yet I am so full of wonder,  
We shall be gods ourselves shortly,  
And we pull'em out of heaven o''is fashion.   Age. 

We shall have wenches now when we can  
Catch'em, and we transgress thus.   Nis. 

And we abuse the gods once, 'tis a justice  
We should be held at hard meat: for my part,  
I'll e'en make ready for mine own affection,  
I know the god incensed, must send a hardness  
Through all good women's hearts, and then we have  
Brought our eggs and muscadine to a fair market:  
Would I had gi'en an 100. pound for a toleration,  
That I might but use my conscience in mine  
Own house.   Dor. 

The Duke he's old and past it, he would  
Never have brought such a plague upon the land else,  
'tis worse than Sword and Famine:  
Yet to say truth, we have deserved it, we have lived  
So wickedly, every man at his livery, and would that  
Would have sufficed us: we murmured at this  
Blessing, that was nothing; and cried out to the  
God for endless pleasures, he heard us,  
And supplied us, and our women were new still  
As we need'em: yet we like beasts still cried,  
Poor men can number their wooers, give us  
Abundance: we had it, and this curse with all.   Age. 

by’r lady we are like to have a long Lent out,  
Flesh will be flesh: now Gentlemen I had rather  
Have angered all the gods then that blind Gunner.  
I remember once the people did but flight him  
In a sacrifice: and what followed?  
Women kept their houses, grew good housewives,  
Honest forsooth, was not that fine?  
Wore their own faces,  
Though they wear gay clothes without surveying:  
And which was most lamentable,  
They loved their husbands.   Nis. 

I do remember it to my grief,  
Young Maids were as cold as cucumbers,  
And much of that complexion:  
Bawds were abolished: and to which misery  
It must come again.  
There were no Cuckolds.  
Well, we had need pray to keep these  
Devils from us,  
The times grow mischievous.  
There he goes, Lord!   Enter one with an Image. 

This is a sacrilege I have not heard of:  
Would I were gelt, that I might not  
Feel what follows.   Age. 

And I too. You shall see within these  
Few years a fine confusion i'the country, mark it:  
Nay, and we grow for to depose the Powers,  
And set up Chastity again, well I ha' done.  
A fine new Goddess certainly, whose blessings  
Are hunger and hard beds.   Nis. 

This comes of fullness, a sin too frequent with us;  
I believe now we shall find shorter commons.   Dor. 

Would I were married, some what has some savour  
The race of Gentry will quite run out now,  
'tis only left to husbands: if younger sisters  
Take not the greater charity 'tis lawful.   Age. 

Well, let come what will come,  
I am but one, and as the plague falls,  
I'll shape myself: If women will be honest, I'll be  
Sound, if the god be not too unmerciful,  
I'll take a little still where I can get it,  
And thank him, and say nothing.   Nis. 

This ill wind yet may blow the City good,  
And let them (if they can) get their own children,  
They have hung long enough in doubt: but howsoever, the old way was the surer, than they had'em.   Dor. 

Farewell my Lords, I'll e'en take up what  
Rent I can before the day, I fear the year will fall out ill.   Age. 

we'll with you Sir: And Love so favour us,  
As we are still thy servants. Come my Lords,  
Let's to the Duke, and tell him to what folly  
His doting now has brought him.   Exeunt. Priest of Cupid, with four young men and Maids. Priest. 

Come my children, let your feet,  
In an even Measure meet:  
And your cheerful voices rise,  
For to present this Sacrifice  
Lo great Cupid, in whose name,  
I his Priest begin the same.  
Young men take your Loves and kiss,  
Thus our Cupid honoured is.  
Kiss again, and in your kissing,  
Let no promises be missing:  
Nor let any May den here,  
Dare to turn away her ear,  
Unto the whisper of her Love,  
But give Bracelet, Ring, or Glove,  
As a token to her sweeting,  
Of an after secret meeting:  
Now boy sing, to stick our hearts  
Fuller of great Cupid's darts.   

Song.  

lovers rejoice, your pains shall be rewarded,  
The god of love himself grieves at your crying;  
No more shall frozen honour be rewarded,  
Nor the coy faces of a maid denying.  
No more shall Virgins sigh, and say we dare not,  
For men are false, and what they do they care not.  
All shall be well again, then do not grieve,  
Men shall be true, and women shall believe.   

lovers rejoice, what you shall say henceforth,  
When you have caught your Sweethearts in your arms,  
It shall be accounted Oracle, and worth:  
No more fainthearted Girls shall dream of harms,  
And cry they are too young: the god hath said,  
fifteen shall make a Mother of a Maid:  
Then wise men, pull your Roses yet unblown,  
Love hates the too ripe fruit that falls alone.    The Measure. After the Measure Enter Nilo and others. Nilo. 

No more of this: here break your Rights for ever  
The Duke commands it so; Priest do not stare,  
I must deface your temple, though unwilling,  
And your god Cupid here must make a Scarecrow  
For any thing I know, or at the best,  
adorn a Chimney-piece.   Priest. 

O Sacrilege unheard of!   Nilo. 

This will not help it, take down the Images  
And away with'em.  
Priest change your coat you had best, all service now  
Is given to men: prayers above their hearing  
Will prove but babblings; learn to lie, and thrive,  
'twill prove your best profession: for the gods,  
He that lives by'em now, must be a beggar.  
There's better holiness on earth they say,  
Pray God it ask not greater sacrifice. Go home,  
And if your god be not deaf as well as blind,  
He will some smoke for it.   Gent. 

Sir—   Nilo. 

Gentlemen there is no talking,  
This must be done, and speedily;  
I have Commission that I must not break.   Gent. 

We are gone, to wonder what shall follow.   Nilo. 

On to the next Temple.   Exeunt. Cornets. Descendit Cupid. Cupid. 

Am I then scorned? is my all-doing will  
And power, that knows no limit, nor admits none,  
Now looked into by less than gods? and weakened  
Am I, whose Bow struck terror through the earth,  
No less than Thunder, and in this, exceeding  
Even gods themselves; whose knees before my Altars  
Now shook off; and contemned by such, whose lives  
Are but my recreation! anger rise,  
My sufferance and myself are made the subject  
Of sins against us. Go thou out displeasure,  
Displeasure of a great god, flying thyself  
Through all this Kingdom: so we whatever evils  
Proud flesh is taking of, amongst these Rebels;  
And on the first heart that despise my Greatness,  
Lay a strange misery, that all may know  
Cupid's revenge is mighty; with his arrow,  
Hotter than plagues or mine own anger, will I  
Now Nobly right myself: nor shall the prayers  
Nor sweet smokes on my Altars hold my hand,  
Till I have left this a most wretched Land,   Exit. Enter Hidaspes, and Cleophila. Hidas. 

Cleophila, what was he that went hence?   Cleo. 

Means your Grace now?   Hidas. 

I mean that handsome man,  
That something more than man I met at door.   Cleo. 

Here was no handsome man.   Hidas. 

Come, he's some one  
You would preserve in private, but you want  
Cunning to do it, and my eyes are sharper  
Than yours, and can with one neglecting glance,  
See all the graces of a man. Who was't?   Cleo. 

That went hence now?   Hidas. 

That went hence now: I he.   Cl. 

Faith here was no such one as your Grace thinks,  
Zoilus your Brother's Dwarf went out but now.   Hidas. 

I think 'twas he: how bravely he passed by:  
Is he not grown a goodly Gentleman?   Cleo. 

A goodly Gentleman madam?  
He is the most deformed fellow i'the Land.   Hidas. 

O blasphemy! he may perhaps to thee  
Appear deformed, for he is indeed  
Unlike a man: his shape and colours are  
Beyond the Art of Painting; he is like  
Nothing that we have seen, yet doth resemble  
Apollo, as I oft have fancied him,  
When rising from his bed he stirs himself,  
And shakes day from his hair.   Cleo. 

He resembles Apollo's Recorder.   Exit Cleo. Hidas. 

Cleophila, go send a page for him,  
And thou shalt see thy error, and repent.  
Alas what do I feel, my blood rebels,  
And I am one of those I used to scorn,  
My maiden-thoughts are fled against myself,  
I harbour Traitors in my Virginity,  
That from my childhood kept me company,  
Is heavier than I can endure to bear:  
Forgive me Cupid, for thou art a god,  
And I a wretched creature; I have sinned,  
But be thou merciful, and grant that yet  
I may enjoy what thou wilt have me, Love.   Enter Cle. Enter Zoy. Cleo. 

Zoilus is here madam.   Hida. 

he's there indeed.  
Now be thine own judge; see thou worse than mad,  
Is he deformed? look upon those eyes,  
That let all pleasure out into the world,  
Unhappy that they cannot see themselves.  
Look on his hair, that like so many beams,  
Streaking the East, shore light over half the world.  
Look on him all together, who is made  
As if two Natures had contention  
About their skill, and one had brought forth him.   Zoyl. 

Ha, ha, ha: madam, though Nature  
Hath not given me so much  
As others in my outward show;  
I bear a heart as loyal unto you  
In this unsightly body (which you please  
To make your mirth) as many others do  
That are far more be friended in their births:  
Yet I could wish myself much more deformed  
Than yet I am, so I might make your Grace  
More merry than you are, ha, ha, ha.   Hidas. 

Beshrew me then if I be merry;  
But I am content whilst thou art with me:  
Thou that art my Saint,  
By hope of whose mild favour I do live  
To tell thee so: I pray thee scorn me not;  
Alas, what can it add unto thy worth  
To triumph over me, that am a Maid?  
Without deceit, whose heart does guide her tongue,  
Drowned in my passions, yet I will take leave.  
To call it reason that I door on thee.   Cleo. 

The Princess is besides her Grace I think,  
To talk thus with a fellow that will hardly  
Serve i'th' dark when one is drunk.   Hidas. 

What answer wilt thou give me?   Zoy. 

If it please your Grace to jest on, I can abide it.   Hidas. 

If it be jest, not to esteem my life,  
Compared with thee: If it be jest in me,  
To hang a thousand kisses in an hour  
Upon those lips, and take 'em off again:  
If it be jest for me to marry thee,  
And take obedience on me whilst I live:  
Then all I say is jest:  
For every part of this, I swear by those  
That see my thoughts, I am resolved to do.  
And I beseech thee, by thine own white hand,  
(Which pardon me, that I am bold to kiss  
With so unworthy lips) that thou wilt swear  
To marry me, as I do here to thee,  
Before the face of heaven.   Zoy. 

Marry you! ha, ha, ha.   Hida. 

Kill me or grant: wilt thou not speak at all?   Zoy. 

Why I will do your will for ever.   Hidas. 

I ask no more: but let me kiss that mouth  
That is so merciful, that is my will:  
Next, go with me before the King in haste,  
That is my will, where I will make our Peers  
Know, that thou art their better.   Zoy. 

Ha, ha, ha, that is fine, ha, ha, ha.   Cleo. 

Madam, what means your Grace?  
Consider for the love of heaven to what  
You run madly; will you take this Viper  
Into your bed?   Hidas. 

Away, hold off thy hands:  
Strike her sweet Zoylous, for it is my will,  
Which thou hast sworn to do.   Zoy. 

Away for shame  
Know you no manners: ha, ha, ha.   Exit. Cle. 

Thou know'st none I fear,  
This is just Cupid's Anger, Venus look down mildly on us: And command thy Son to spare this Lady once, and let me be in love with all: and none in love with me.   Exit. Enter Ismenus: and Timantus. Tima. 

Is your Lordship for the wars this summer?   Ismen: 

Timantus wilt thou go with me?   Tima: 

If I had a company my Lord   Ism: 

Of Fiddlers: Thou a Company?  
No, no, keep thy company at home, & cause cuckolds,  
The wars will hurt thy face, there's no sempsters,  
Shoemakers, nor Tailors, nor almond milk i'th' morning,  
Nor poached eggs to keep your worship soluble,  
No man to warm your shirt, and blow your roses:  
Nor none to reverence your round lace breeches:  
If thou wilt needs go, and go thus,  
Get a case for thy Captainship, a shower will spoil thee else. Thus much for thee.   Tim. 

Your Lordship's wondrous witty, very pleasant, believe't.   Exit. Enter Telamon, Dorialus, Agenor, Nisus, Leonti. Leon. 

No news yet my Son?   Telam. 

Sir, there be divers out in search:  
No doubt they'll bring the truth where he is,  
Or the occasion that led him hence.   Tim. 

They have good eyes then.   Leon. 

The Gods go with them:  
Who be those that wait there?   Telam. 

The Lord Ismenus, your General, for his dispatch.   Leon. 

Onephen we have no use to employ your  
Virtue in our war: now the province is well settled:  
Hear you aught of the Marquis?   Ism. 

No Sir,   Leon: 

'tis strange he should be gone thus:  
This 5. days he was not seen.   Tim. 

I'll hold my life, I could boult him in an hour:   Leon: 

where's my Daughter?   Dori. 

About the purging of the Temples, Sir.   Leon: 

she's chaste and virtuous; Fetch her to me,  
And tell her I am pleased to grant her now  
Her last request, without repenting me.  
Be it what it will: she is wise Dorialus,  
And will not press me farther than a Father.   Exit Nis. Dori: 

I pray the best may follow: yet if your grace  
Had taken the opinions of your people,  
At least of such, whose wisdoms ever wake  
About your safety, I may say it Sir,  
Under your noble pardon: that this change  
Either had been more honour to the Gods,  
Or I think not at all. Sir the princess.   Enter hidaspis' and Nisus. Leon. 

O my Daughter, my health!  
And did I say my soul, I lied not;  
Thou art so near me, speak, and have whatever  
Thy wise will leads thee too: had I a Heaven,  
It were too poor a place for such a goodness.   Dori: 

What's here?   Agener. 

An ape's skin stuffed I think, 'tis so plump.   Hida. 

Sir, you have passed your word,  
Still be a prince, and hold you to it.  
Wonder not I press you, my life lies in your word,  
If you break that, you have broke my heart, I must ask  
That's my shame, and your will must not deny me:  
Now for Heaven be not for sworn.   Leon: 

By the Gods I will not,  
I cannot, were there no other power,  
Than my love called to a witness of it.   Dori: 

They have much reason to trust,  
You have for sworn one of 'em out o'th' country already.   Hida: 

Then this is my request: This Gent:  
be not ashamed, Sir:  
You are worth a Kingdom.   Leon: 

In what?   Hida: 

In way of marriage.   Leon: 

How?   Hidas. 

In way of Marriage, it must be so.  
Your Oath is tied to heaven: as my love to him,   Leon. 

I know thou dost but try my Age,  
Come ask again.   Hidas: 

If I should ask all my life time, this is all still.  
Sir I am serious, I must have this worthy man without inquiring why; and suddenly, and freely:  
Do not look for reason or obedience in my words:  
My Love admits no wisdom:  
Only haste, and hope hangs on my fury.  
Speak Sir, speak, but not as a Father,  
I am deaf and dull to counsel: my inflamed blood  
Hears nothing but my will,  
For God's sake speak.   Dori: 

Here's a brave alteration.   Nis: 

This comes of Chastity.   Hida: 

Will not you speak Sir?   Age. 

The God begins his vengeance; what a sweet youth he has sent us here, with a pudding in's belly?   Leon. 

O let me never speak,  
Or with my words let me speak out my life;  
Thou power abused great Love, whose vengeance now we feel and fear, have mercy on this Land.   Nis: 

How does your Grace?   Leon. 

Sick, very sick I hope.   Dori: 

God's comfort you.   Hida. 

Will not you speak? Is this your royal word?  
Do not pull perjury upon your soul.  
Sir, you are old, and near your punishment; remember.   Leon. 

Away base woman.   Hida. 

Then be no more my Father, but a plague,  
I am bound to pray against: be any sin  
May force me to despair, and hang myself,  
be thy name never more remembered King  
But in example of a broken Faith,  
And cursed even to forgetfulness:  
May thy Land bring forth such Monsters as thy daughter is?  
I am weary of my rage. I pray forgive me,  
And let me have him, will you Noble Sir?   Leon. 

Mercy, mercy heaven:  
Thou heir of all dishonour, shamest thou not to draw  
This little moisture left for life, thus rudely from me?  
Carry that Slave to death.   Zoilus. 

For heavens sake Sir, it is no fault of mine,  
That she will love me.   Leon. 

To death with him, I say.   Hida: 

Then make haste Tyrant, or I'll be for him;  
This is the way to Hell.   Leon. 

Hold fast, I charge you away with him.   Hida. 

Alas old man, Death hath more doors than one,  
And will meet him.   Exit Hidas. Leon. 

Dorialus, Pray see her in her Chamber,  
And lay a guard about her:  
The greatest curse the Gods lay on our frailties,  
Is will and disobedience in our Issues,  
Which we beget as well as them to plague us,  
With our fond loves; Beasts you are only blessed  
That have that happy dullness to forget  
What you have made, your young ones grieve not you  
They wander where they list, and have their ways  
Without dishonour to you; and their ends,  
Fall on 'em without sorrow of their parents,  
Or after ill remembrance: Oh this Woman  
Would I had made myself a Sepulchre,  
When I made her: Nephew where is the prince?  
Pray God he have not more part of her baseness  
Then of her blood about him,  
Gent: where is he?   Ism. 

I know not Sir.  
Has his ways by himself, is too wise for my company.   Leon. 

I do not like this hiding of himself,  
From such society as his person:  
Some of it ye needs must know.   Ismenus. 

I am sure not I: nor have known twice this ten days, which if I were as proud as some of 'em I should take scurvily, but he is a young man:  
Let him have his swinge, 'twill make him.   Timantus whispers to the Duke. 

There's some good matter now in hand:  
How the slave jeers and grins: the Duke is pleased.  
There's a new pair of Scarlet Hose now, and as much  
Money to spare, as will fetch the old from pawn, a Hat and a Cloak to go out tomorrow:  
Garters and stockings come by nature.   Leon. 

be sure of this.   Tima. 

I durst not speak else Sir.    

Actus secundus. Scoena prima.  cornets. descend Cupid. Cupid. 

Leucippus thou art shot through with a shaft  
That will not rankle long, yet sharp enough  
To sow a world of helpless misery  
In this happy Kingdom, dost thou think  
Because thou art a prince, to make a part  
Against my power, but it is all the fault  
Of thy old Father, who believes his Age  
Is cold enough to quench my burning Darts,  
But he shall know ere long, that my smart lose,  
Can thaw Ice, and inflame the withered heart,  
Of Nestor, thou thyself art lightly stroke,  
But his mad love, shall publish that the rage  
Of Cupid, has the power to conquer Age.   Exit. Enter Bacha, & Leucippus, Bacha, A handkerchief. Leu. 

Why, what's the matter?   Bach. 

Have you got the spoil  
You thirsted for. O tyranny of men! Lenc. I pray thee leave.   Bach. 

Your envy is Heaven knows,  
Beyond the reach of all our feeble Sex:  
What pain alas could it have been to you,  
If I had kept mine honour? you might still  
Have been a prince, and still this countries Heir,  
That innocent Guard, which I till now had kept,  
For my defence, my virtue, did it seem  
So dangerous in a State, that yourself came to suppress it.   Leuc. 

Dry thine eyes again, I'll kiss thy tears away,  
This is but folly, 'tis past all help.   Bac. 

Now you have won the treasure,  
'tis my request that you would leave me thus:  
And never see these empty walls again,  
I know you will do so, and well you may:  
For there is nothing in 'em that's worth  
A glance, I loathe myself, and am become  
Another woman; One methinks with whom  
I want acquaintance.   Leu. 

If I do offend thee; I can be gone,  
And though I love thy sight, so highly do I prize thine own content, that I will leave thee.   Leu. 

Nay, you may stay now;  
You should have gone before: I know not now  
Why I should fear you: All I should have kept.  
Is stolen: Nor is it in the power of man  
To rob me farther: if you can invent  
Spare not; No naked man fears robbing less  
Than you do: now you may for ever stay.   Leuc. 

Why, I could do thee farther wrong.   Bac. 

You have a deeper reach in evil than I:  
'tis past my thought.   Leu. 

And past my will to act: but trust me I could do it.   Bac. 

Good Sir do, that I may know there is a  
Wrong beyond what you have done me.   Leuc. 

I could tell the world what thou hast done.   Bac: 

Yes you may tell the world  
And do you think I am so vain to hope  
You will not: you can tell the world but this,  
That I am a widow, full of tears in show,  
My Husband dead: And one that loved me so  
Hardly, a week forgot my modesty,  
And caught with youth and greatness,  
Gave myself to live in sin with you:  
This you may tell: And this I do deserve.   Leuc. 

Why dost thou think me so base to tell?  
These limbs of mine shall part  
From one another on a wrack,  
Ere I disclose; But thou dost utter words  
That much afflict me: you did seem as ready  
Sweet Bacha as myself.   Bac. 

You are right a man: when they have witched us into misery, poor innocent souls,  
They lay the fault on us:  
But be it so- For prince Leucippus' sake  
I will bear anything.   Leu. 

Come weep no more.  
I wrought thee to it, it was my fault:  
Nay, see if thou wilt leave? Here, take this pearl,  
Kiss me sweet Bacha, and receive this purse.   Bac. 

What should I do with these? they will not deck my mind.   Leu 

Why keep 'em to remember me.  
I must be gone, I have been absent long:  
I know the Duke my Father is in rage,  
But I will see thee suddenly again.  
Farewell my Bacha.   Bach 

Gods keep you: Do you hear Sir: pray give me a point to wear.   Leuc. 

Alas good Bacha, take one, I pray thee where thou wilt.   Bac. 
Coming from you: This point is of as high Esteem with me, as all pearl and gold: nothing but good be ever with or near you.  Leuc. 

Fare thee well mine own good Bacha;  
I will make all haste.   Exit. Bac. 

just as you are a dozen I esteem you:  
No more, does he think I would prostitute  
myself for love: it was the love of these pearls  
And gold that wan me, I confess  
I lust more after him then any other,  
And would at any rate if I had store,  
Purchase his fellowship: but being poor,  
I'll both enjoy his body and his purse,  
And he a Prince, near think myself the worse.   Enter Leontius, Leucippus, Ismenus, Timantus. Leon. 

Nay, you must back and show us what it is,  
That witches you out of your Honour thus.   Bac. 

whose's that?   Tima. 

Look there Sir.   Leon. 

Lady, never fly you are betrayed.   Bach. 

Leave me my tears a while,  
And to my just rage give a little place:  
What saucy man are you, that without leave,  
Enter upon a widows mournful house?  
You hinder a dead man from many tears.  
Who did deserve more than the world can shed,  
Though they should weep themselves to Images:  
If not for of me, yet of yourself  
A way, for you can bring no comfort to me.  
But you may carry hence, you know not what.  
Nay sorrow is infectious.   Leon. 

Thou thyself  
Art grown infectious: wouldst thou know my name?  
I am the Duke, father to this young man  
Whom thou corrupt'st.   Bach. 

Has he then told him all.   Leuc. 

You do her wrong Sir.   Bach. 

O he has not told. Sir I beseech you pardon  
My wild tongue, directed by a weak distempered head, madded with grief: Alas I did not know  
You were my Sovereign; but now you may  
Command my poor unworthy life,  
Which will be none I hope ere long.   Le. 

All thy dissembling will never hide thy shame:  
And wert not more respecting Womanhood in  
General, than any thing in thee, thou shouldst  
Be made such an example, that posterity,  
When they would speak most bitterly, should say,  
Thou art as impudent as Bacha was.   Bach. 

Sir, though you be my King, whom I will  
Serve in all just causes: yet when wrongfully  
You seek to take mine Honour, I will rise  
Thus and defy you; for it is a jewel  
Dearer than you can give, which whilst I keep,  
(Though in this lowly house) I shall esteem  
myself above the Princes of the earth  
That are without it. If the Prince your son,  
Whom you accuse me with, know how to speak  
Dishonour of me, if he do not do it,  
The plagues of hell light on him, may he never  
Govern this Kingdom: here I challenge him  
Before the face of heaven, my Liege, and these,  
To speak the worst he can: if he will lie,  
To lose a woman's fame, I'll say he is  
Like you (I think I cannot call him worse.)  
he's dead, that with his life would have defended  
My reputation, and I forced to play  
(That which I am) the foolish woman,  
And use my liberal tongue.   Leu. 

Is't possible! we men are children in our  
Carriages, compared with women: wake thy self  
For shame, and leave not her whose honour thou  
Shouldst keep safe as thine own, alone to free herself:  
But I am priest I know not how, with guilt,  
And feel my conscience (never used to lie)  
Loath to allow my tongue to add a lie  
To that too much I did: but it is lawful  
To defend her, that only for my love loved evil.   Leon. 

Tell me, why did you   Leuc. 

stay here so long?   Leuc. 

If I can urge aught from me but a truth, hell  
Take me.   Leon. 

What's the matter, why speak you not?   Tima. 

Alas good Sir, forbear  
To urge the Prince, you see his shamefastness.   Bac. 

What does he say Sir? if you be a Prince  
Show it, and tell the truth.   Isme. 

If you have lain with her tell your Father,  
No doubt he has done as ill before now:  
The Gentlewoman will be proud on't.   Bac. 

For God's sake speak.   Leu. 

Have you done prating yet?   Isme. 

Who prates?   Leu 

Thou know'st I do not speak to thee Ismenus:  
But what said you Tima. concerning my shamefastness?   Tima. 

Nothing I hope that might displease your  
Highness.   Leu. 

If any of thy great, Great-grandmothers  
This thousand years, had been as chaste as she,  
It would have made thee honester. I stayed  
To hear what you would say: she is by heaven  
Of the most strict and blameless chastity  
That ever woman was: (good gods forgive me)  
Had Tarquin met with her, she had been killed  
With a Slave by her ere she had agreed:  
I lie with her! would I might perish then.  
Our Mothers, whom we all must reverence,  
Could near exceed her for her chastity,  
Upon my soul: for by this light she's  
A most obstinate modest creature.   Leon. 

What did you with her then so long Leucip?   Leu. 

I'll tell you Sir: You see she's beautiful.   Leon. 

I see it well.   Leu. 

Moved by her face,  
I came with lustful thoughts,  
Which was a fault in me:  
But telling truth, something more pardonable,  
(And for the world I will not lie to you:)  
Proud of myself, I thought a PRINCE's name  
Had power to blow'em down flat of their backs;  
But here I found a Rock not to be shook:  
For as I hope for good Sir, all the battery  
That I could lay to her, or of my person,  
My greatness, or gold, could nothing move her.   Leon. 

'tis very strange, being so young and fair.   Leu. 

she's almost thirty Sir.   Leon. 

How do you know her age so just?   Leu. 

She told it me herself  
Once when she went about to show by reason  
I should leave wooing her.   Leon. 

She stains the ripest Virgins of the age.   Leu. 

If I had sinned with her, I would be loath  
To publish her disgrace: but by my life  
I would have told it you, because I think  
You would have pardoned me the rather:  
And I will tell you father: By this light Sir,  
(But that I never will bestow myself  
But to your liking) it she now would have me,  
I now would marry her.   Leon. 

How's that Leucippus!   Leu. 

Sir, will you pardon me one fault, which yet  
I have not done, but had a will to do, and I will tell it?   Leon. 

Be't what it will, I pardon thee.   Leu. 

I offered marriage to her.   Leon. 

Did she refuse it?   Leu. 

With that earnestness, and almost scorn  
To think of any other after her lost Mate, that she  
Made methink myself unworthy of her.   Leon. 

You have stayed too long Leucippus.   Leu. 

Yes Sir, forgive me heaven, what multitudes  
Of oaths have I bestowed on lies, and yet they were officious lies, there was no malice in 'em.   Leon. 

She is the fairest creature that ever I beheld;  
And then so chaste, 'tis wonderful! the more I look  
On her, the more I am amazed.  
I have long thought of a wife, and one I would have  
Had, but that I was afraid to meet a woman  
That might abuse my age: but here she is  
Whom I may trust too; of a chastity  
Impregnable, and approved so by my son:  
The means of her birth will still preserve her  
In due obedience; and her beauty is  
Of force enough to pull me back to youth.  
My son once sent away, whose rivalship  
I have just cause to fear, if power, or gold,  
Or wit, can win her to me, she is mine.  
Nephew Ismenus, I have new intelligence,  
Your Province is unquiet still.   Ismen. 

I'm glad on't.   Leon. 

And so dangerously, that I must send the  
prince in person with you.   Isme. 

I'm glad of that too: Sir will you dispatch  
Us, we shall wither here for ever.   Leon. 

You shall be dispatched within this hour,  
Leucippus, never wonder nor ask, it must be thus.  
Lady I ask your pardon, whose virtue I have  
slubbered with my tongue, and you shall ever be  
Chaste in my memory hereafter;  
But we old men often dote: to make amends for  
My great fault, receive that Ring:  
I'm sorry for your grief, may it soon leave you.  
Come my Lords let's go.   Exeunt. Bac. 

Heaven bless your Grace.  
One that had but so much modesty left, as to blush,  
Or shrink a little at his first encounter,  
Had been undone; where I come off with honour,  
And gain too: they that never would be tracked  
In any course, by the most subtle sense,  
Must bear it through with frontlet's impudence.   Exit. Enter Dorialus, Agenor, Nisus. Dor. 

Gentlemen, this is a strange piece of justice,  
To put the wretched Dwarf to death because  
She doted on him; Is she not a woman, and  
Subject to those mad fegaries her whole Sex  
Is infected with? Had she loved you, or you, or I,  
Or all on's, (as indeed the more the merrier still  
With them) must we therefore have our heads pared  
With a Hatchet? So she may love all the Nobility  
Out ath dukedom in a month, and let the rascals in.   Nis. 

You will not, or you do not see the need  
That makes this just to the world?   Dor. 

I cannot tell, I would be loath to feel it:  
But the best is, she loves not proper men, we three  
Were in wise cases else: but make me know this need.   Nis. 
Why yes: He being taken away, this base incontinence dies presently, and she must see her shame and sorrow for it.  Dor. 
Pray God she do: but was the Sprat beheaded, or did they swing him about like a chicken, and so break his neck.  Agen. 
Yes, he was beheaded, and a solemn justice made of it.  Dor. 

That might have been deducted.   Agen. 

Why how would you have had him died?   Dor. 
Faith I would have had him roasted like a warden in a brown paper, and no more talk on't: or a feather stuck in's head, like a Quail: or a hanged him in a dog-collar: what should he be beheaded? we shall have it grow so base shortly, Gentlemen will be out of love with it.  Nis. 
I wonder from whence this of the dwarves first sprung?  Dor. 
From an old lecherous pair of breeches that lay upon a wench to keep her warm: for certainly they are no man's work: and I am sure a Monkey would get one of the guard to this fellow, he was no bigger than a small portmanteau, and much about that making, if t'had legs.  Agen. 

But Gentlemen, what say you to the Prince?   N. 

ay, concerning his being sent I know not whither.   Dor. 
Why then he will come home I know not when: you shall pardon me, I'll talk no more of this subject, but say gods be with him where ere he is, and send him well home again: For why, he is gone, or when he will return, let them know that directed him: Only this, there's mad Moriscoes in the state; but what they are, I'll tell you when I know. Come, let's go, hear all, and say nothing.  Agen. 

Content.   Exeunt. Enter Timantus and Telamon. Tela. 

Timantus, is the Duke ready yet?   Tima. 

Almost.   Tela. 

What ails him?   Tela. 
Faith I know not, I think he has dreamt he's but eighteen: has been worse since he sent you forth for the frizzling-iron.  Tel. 
That cannot be, he lay in Gloves all night, and this morning I brought him a new Periwig with a lock at it, and knocked up a swinge in's chamber.  Tim. 
O but since, his tailor came, and they have fallen out about the fashion on's clothes: and yonder's a fellow come, has board a hole in's ear; and he has bespake a vaulting-horse, you shall see him come forth presently: he looks like Winter, stuck here and there with fresh flowers.  Tela. 

Will he not Tilt think you?   Tim. 

I think he will.   Tela. 

What does he mean to do?   Tim. 
I know not: but by this light I think he is in love; he would ha' been shaved but for me.  Tela. 

In love, with whom?   Tim. 
I could guess, but you shall pardon me: he will take me along with him some whither.  Tel. 
I overheard him ask your opinion of somebody's beauty.  Tima. 
Yes, there it goes that makes him so youthful, and has laid by his Crutch, and halts now with a leading staff.  Enter Leontine with a staff and a looking-glass. Leon. 

Timantus.   Tim. 

Sir.   Leon. 

This Feather is not large enough.   Tim. 

Yes faith, 'tis such a one as the rest of the young  
Gallants wear.   Leon. 

Telamon, does it do well?   Tela. 
Sir, it becomes you, or you become it, the rareliest—  Leon. 

Away, dost think so?   Tela. 
Think sir? I know it. Sir, the Princess is past all hope of life since the Dwarf was put to death.  Leo. 
Let her be so, I have other matters in hand: but this same tailor angers me, he has made my doublet so wide: and see, the knave has put no points at my arm.  Tima. 
Those will be put too quickly Sir, upon any occasion.  Leon. 

Telamon, have you bid this Dancer come a mornings?   Tela. 

Yes Sir.   Leon. 
Timantus, let me see the glass again: look you how careless you are grown, is this tooth well put in?  Tima. 

Which Sir?   Leon. 

This Sir.   Tima. 

It shall be.   Tela. 
methinks that tooth should put him in mind on's years: and Timantus stands as if (seeing the Duke in such a youthful habit) he were looking in's mouth how old he were.  Leon. 

So, fo.   Tela. 

Will you have your Gown sir?   Leon. 
My Gown? why, am I sick? bring me my Sword.  Exit Tela. Timantus, 
Let a couple of the great horses be brought out for us.  Tima. 

he'll kill himself. Why, will you ride sir?   Leon. 

Ride? Doffed thou think I cannot ride?   Timan. 
O yes sir, I know it: but as I conceive your journey, you would have it private; and then you were better take a Coach.  Leon. 
These Coaches make me sick: yet 'tis no matter, let it be so.  Enter Telamon with a sword. Tel. 

Sir, here's your sword.   Leon. 
O well said: let me see it, I could methinks. Why Telamon, bring me another: what, thinkst thou I will wear a sword in vain?  Tela. 
He has not strength enough to draw it, a yoke of Fleas tied to a hair would have drawn it. 'tis out sir now, the scabbard is broke.  Leon. 
O put it up again, and on with it; methinks I am not dressed till I feel my sword on.  Leon. 

Telamon, if any of my counsel ask for me,  
Say I am gone to take the air.   Tim. 
He has not been dressed this twenty years then, If this vain hold but a week, he will learn to play o'th' base viol and sing to't: he's poetical already; For I have spied a Sonnet on's making lie by's beds side, I'll be so unmannerly to read it.  Exit. Enter Hidaspes: Cleophila, and Hero, Hidaspes in a Bed. 

he's dead, he's dead, and I am following.   Cleo. 

Ask Cupid mercy madam.   Hida. 

O my heart!   Cleo. 

Help! stir her:   Hero: Hida: 

o, ô.   Cleo. 

she's going, wretched women that we are:  
Look to her, and I'll pray the while.   Hero. 

Why madam?   she kneels. Cleo: 

Cupid pardon what is past,  
And forgive our sins at last,  
Than we will be coy no more,  
But thy Deity Adore,  
Troths at fifteen we will plight,  
And will tread a Dance each night,  
In the Fields, or by the Fire,  
With the youths that have desire.   
How does she yet?  Hero. 

O ill:   Cleo. 

Given ear-rings we will wear,  
Bracelets of our lovers hair,  
Which they on our Arms shall twist,  
With their Names carved on wrist,  
All the Money that we owe,  
we in Tokens will bestow:  
And learn to write, that when 'tis sent,  
Only our Loves know what it meant:  
O then pardon what is past,  
And forgive our sins at last.   
What, Minds she?  Hero. 

Nothing, you do it not want only, you should sing   Hero. 

Leave, leave, 'tis now too late:   Cleo. 

Why She is dead:   Hero. 

Her last is breathed.   Cleo. 

What shall we do.   Hero. 

Go run,  
And tell the Duke; And whilst I'll close her eyes.  
Thus I shut thy faded light,  
And put it in eternal night.  
Where is she can boldly say  
Though she be as fresh as May:  
She shall not by this Corpse be laid,  
Ere to morrows light do fade.  
Let us all now living be,  
Warned by thy strict Chastity.  
And marry all fast as we can,  
Till then we keep a piece of man,  
Wrongfully from them that owe it  
Soon may every Maid bestow it.   Enter Bacha and a Maid. Bac. 

Who is it?   Maid. 

Forsooth there's a gallant Coach at the door,  
And the brave old man in't, that you said was the Duke.   Bac. 

Cupid grant he may be taken.   Away. Maid. 
He is coming up, and looks the swaggeringst, & has such glorious clothes. Bac: Let all the house see me sad, and see all handsome.  Enter Leontius & Timantus, a jewel, & a Ring. Leon. 
Nay widow fly not back, we come not now to chide, stand up and bid me welcome.  Bac. 

To a poor widow's house that knows no end  
Of her ill fortune: your Highness is most welcome.   Leon. 
Come kiss me then, this is but manner's widow: near fling your head aside, I have more cause of grief than you: my Daughter's dead: but what? 'tis nothing, is the rough French horse brought to the door? They say he is a high goer, I shall soon try his metal.  Tim. 
He will be sir, and the grey Barbary, they are fiery both.  Leon. 
They are the better: Before the gods I am lightsome, very lightsome: How dost thou like me Widow?  Bac. 

As a person in whom all graces are,   Leon. 
Come, Come, ye flatter: I'll clap your cheek for that, and you shall not be angry.  
Hast no Music? Now could I cut three times with ease, and do a cross point, should shame all your gallants.  Bach: 
I do believe you, and yourself too: Lord what a fine old Zany my Love has made him? is mine, I am sure: Heaven make me thankful for him.  Leu: 

Tell me how old thou art, my pretty sweet heart?   Timant. 

Your Grace will not buy her, she may trip Sir?   Bac: 

My sorrow shows me Elder than I am by many years?   Leon. 

Thou art so witty I must kiss again.   Tim. 
In deed her Age lies not in her mouth: near look it there Sir she has a better register, if it be not burnt.  Leon. 

I will kiss thee, I am afire Timanthus.   Timanth. 
Can you choose Sir, having such heavenly Fire before you?  Lern. 

Widow, guess why I come, I prithee do.   Bac. 
I cannot Sir, unless you be pleased to make a mirth out of my rudeness: and that I hope your pity will not let ye, the subject is so barren: Bite King Bite, I'll let you play a while.  Leon: 
Now as I am an honest man, I'll tell thee truly, how many foot did I jump yesterday Timanthus?  Tim. 

Fourteen of your own, & some three fingers.   Bach. 

This Fellow lies as lightly, as if he were in cut Taffeta.  
Alas good Almanac get thee to Bed, and tell what weather we shall have tomorrow.   Leon. 

Widow I am come in short to be a Suitor.   Bach: 

For whom?   Leon: 
Why by my troth, I come to woo thee wench: And win thee for myself: Nay, look upon me: I have about me that will do it.  Bac: 
Now Heaven defend me, your whore shall never: I thank the Gods, I have a little left me to keep me warm, and honest: if your grace take not that, I seek no more.  Leon. 

I am so far from taking any thing, I'll add unto thee.   Bach: 
Such Additions may be for your ease Sir, Not my honesty: I am well in being single, good Sir seek another, I am no meat for money.  Leon. 

Shall I fight for thee?  
This Sword shall cut his throat, that dares lay claim  
But to a Finger of thee, but to a look, I would  
See such a fellow.   Bac: 

It would be but a cold sight to you:  
This is the father of S. George a footback,  
Can such dry Mumming talk.   Tim. 

Before the gods, your grace looks like Aeneas.   Bac. 

He looks like his old father upon his back,  
Crying to get Aboard.   Leon. 

How shall I win thy love, I pray thee tell me?  
I'll marry thee if thou desirest that: That is an honest  
Course, I am in good earnest, and presently within this hour, I am mad for thee: prithee deny me not,  
For as I live I'll pine thee, but I'll have thee.   Bac: 

Now he's in the Toil, i'll hold him fast.   Tim. 

You do not know what 'tis to be a Queen,  
Go to your Maid, else what the old man falls short of, there's others can eke out, when you please to call on 'em.   Bac: 

I understand you not, Love I adore thee,  
Sir, on my knees I give you hearty thanks, for so much  
Honouring your humble Handmaid above her birth:  
Far more her weak deservings. I dare not trust the  
Envious: tongues of all that must repine at my unworthy rising.  
Beside, you have many fair ones in your kingdom  
Borne to such worth: o turn yourself about  
And make a Noble choice.   Leon. 

If I do, let me famish: I will have thee,  
Or break up house, and board here.   Bac. 
Sir, you may command an unwilling woman to obey ye: but heaven knows—  Leon. 
No more: these half a dozen kisses, and this jewel, and every thing I have, and away with me, and clap it up; and have a boy by the morning Timantus. Let one be sent post for my son again: and for Ismenus, they are scarce twenty mile on their way yet, by that time we'll be married.  Tima. 

There shall Sir.   Exeunt. 
Finis Act. secundi.   

Actus tertij. Scoen. pri.  Enter Dorialus, Agenor, Nisus. Nisus. 

Is not this a fine marriage?   Age. 

Yes, yes, let it alone.   Dor. 
ay, ay, the King may marry whom's list, let's talk of other matters.  Nis. 

Is the Prince coming home certainly?   Dor. 
Yes, yes, he was sent post for yesterday, let's make haste, we'll see how his new Mother-in-law will entertain him.  Nis. 
Why well I warrant you: did you not mark how humbly she carried herself to us on her marriage day, acknowledging her own unworthiness, and that she would be our servant.  Dor. 

But mark what's done. Nis. regard not show   Age. 
O God! I knew her when I have been offered her to be brought to my bed for five pound: whether it could have been performed or no, I know not.  Nis. 

Her daughters a pretty Lady.   Dor. 
Yes: and having had but mean bringing up, it talks the prettiest and innocentest, the Queen willbe so angry to hear her betray her breeding by her language: but I am persuaded she's well disposed.  Age. 

I think better than her mother.   Nis. 

Come, we stay too long.   Exeunt. Enter Leucippus and Ismenus. Isme. 

How now man, struck dead with a tale?   Leu. 

No, but with a truth.   Isme. 
Stand of yourself: can you endure blows, and shrink at words?  Leu. 

Thou know'st I have told thee all.   Ism. 

But that all's nothing to make you thus: your  
Sister's dead.   Leu. 

That's much, but not the most.   Isme. 
Why, for the other let her marry and hang, 'tis no purposed fault of yours: and if your father will needs have your cast whore, you shall show the duty of a child better in being contented, and bidding much good do his good old heart with her, then in repining thus at it: let her go: what, there are more wenches man, we'll have another.  L. 

O thou art vain, thou know'st I do not love her:  
What shall I do? I would my tongue had led me  
To any other thing, but Blasphemy,  
So I had missed commending of this woman,  
Whom I must reverence now, she is my mother;  
My fin Ismenus has wrought all this ill:  
And I beseech thee, to be warned by me,  
And do not lie, if any man should ask thee  
But How thou dost, or, What o'clock 'tis now,  
Be sure thou do not lie, make no excuse  
For him that is most near thee: never let  
The most officious falsehood scape thy tongue,  
For they above (that are entirely truth)  
Will make that seed, which thou hast sown  
Of lies, yield miseries a thousand sold  
Upon thine head, as they have done of mine.   Enter Timantus. Tim. 
Sir, your Highness is welcome home, the Duke and Queen will presently come forth to you.  Leu. 

I'll weight on them.   Tima. 
Worthy Ismenus, I pray how have you sped in your wars?  Isme. 
This Rogue mocks me. Well Timantus, pray how have you sped here at home at shouelboord?  Tim. 
Faith reasonable. How many Towns have you taken in this Summer?  Isme. 
How many Stags have you been at the death of this grass?  Tim. 

A number. pray how is the province settled?   Isme. 

Prithee how does the dun Nag?   Tim. 

I think you mock me my Lord.   Isme. 
Mock thee? Yes by my troth do I: why what wouldst thou have me do with thee? Art good for any thing else?  Enter Leontius, Bacha, Dorialus, Agenor, Nisus, Telamon. Leu. 

My good Ismenus, hold me by the wrist:  
And if thou seest me fainting, wring me hard,  
For I shall soon again else—   Kneels. Leon. 

Welcome my son; rise, I did send for thee  
Back from the Province, by thy Mother's counsel,  
Thy good Mother here, who loves thee well:  
She would not let me venture all my joy  
Amongst my enemies: I thank thee for her,  
And none but thee, I took her on thy word.   Leuc. 

Pinch harder.   Leon. 

And she shall bid thee welcome: I have now  
Some near affairs, but I will drink a Health  
To thee anon: Come Telamon, I'm grown  
Lustier, I thank thee for't, since I married;  
I can stand now alone, why Telamon,  
And never stagger.   Exit Leontius, Telamon. Bac. 

Welcome most noble sir, whose fame is come  
Hither before you: out alas you scorn me,  
And teach me what to do.   Leu. 

No, you are my Mother.   Bac. 

Far unworthy of that name God knows:  
But trust me, here before these Lords,  
I am no more but Nurse unto the Duke;  
Nor will I breed a faction in the State,  
It is too much for me that I am raised  
Unto his bed, and will remain the servant  
Of you that did it.   Leu. 

madam I will serve you  
As shall become me. O dissembling woman!  
Whom I must reverence though Take from thy  
Quiver, sure-aimed Apollo, one of thy swift darts,  
Headed with thy consuming golden beams,  
And let it melt this body into mist,  
That none may find it.   Bac. 

Shall I beg my Lords  
This Room in private for the Prince and me?   Exeunt all but Leu. and Bach. Leu. 

What will she say now?   Bach. 

I must still enjoy him:  
Yet there is still left in me a spark of woman,  
That wishes he would move it, but he stands,  
As if he grew there with his eyes on earth,  
Sir, you and I when we were last together  
Kept not this distance as we were afraid  
Of blasting by ourselves.   Leu: 

madam 'tis true, Heaven pardon it.   Bac: 

Amen Sir.  
You may think that I have done you wrong in this strange marriage,   Leu: 

'tis past now.   Bac: 

But it was no fault of mine:  
The world had called me mad, had I refused  
The King: nor laid I any train to catch him,  
It was your own Oaths did it.   Leuc: 

'tis a truth: that takes my sleep away, but  
Would to Heaven, if it had so been pleased, you had  
Refused him, though I had gratified that courtesy  
With having you myself: But since 'tis thus,  
I do beseech you that you will be honest  
From henceforth, and not abuse his credulous Age,  
Which you may easily do. As for myself  
What I can say you know alas too well  
Is tied within me, here it will sit like lead,  
But shall offend no other, it will pluck me  
Back from my entrance into any mirth,  
As if a servant came, and whispered with me  
Of some friend's death, but I will bear myself,  
To you, with all the due obedience  
A son owes to a Mother: more than this,  
Is not in me, but I must leave the rest to the  
Just gods: who in their blessed time,  
When they have given me punishment enough,  
For my rash sin, will mercifully find  
As unexpected means to ease my grief  
As they did now to bring it.   Bac: 

Grown so godly: this must not be. And  
I willbe to you, no other than a natural Mother ought:  
And for my honesty, so you will swear  
Never to urge me, I shall keep it safe from any other.   Leu. 

Bless me I should urge you?   Bac. 

Nay but swear then that I may be at peace,  
For I do feel a weakness in myself,  
That can deny you nothing, if you tempt me,  
I shall embrace fin as it were a friend, and run to meet it   Leu. 

If you know how far  
It were from me, you would not urge an Oath,  
But for your satistaction, when I tempt you.   Bac: 

Swear not: I cannot move him, this sad talk  
Of things past help, does not become us well.  
Shall I send one for my Musicians and we'll dance?   Leu. 

Dance madam.   Bac. 

Yes, Alavalta.   Leu. 

I cannot dance Madam.   Bac. 

Then let's be merry   Leu. 

I am as my Fortunes bid me.  
Do not you see me sour?   Leu. 

Yes.  
And why think you I smile?   Leu. 

I am so far from any joy myself,  
I cannot fancy a cause of mirth.   Bac. 

He tell you, we are alone:   Leu. 

Alone. Bac. Yes.   Leu. 

'tis true, what then?   Bac. 

What then? you make my smiling now  
Break into laughter: what think you is to be done then?   Leu. 

We should pray to Heaven for mercy.   Bac. 

Pray, that were a way indeed  
To pass the time, but I will make you blush,  
To see a bashful woman teach a man  
What we should do alone, try again  
If you can find it out.   Leu. 

I dare not think I understand you.   Ba. 

I must teach you then; Come, kiss me.   Leu. 

Kiss you?   Bac. 

Yes, be not ashamed:  
You did it not yourself, I will forgive you.   Leue. 

Keep you displeased gods, the due respect  
I ought to bear unto this wicked woman,  
As she is now my Mother, Hast within me,  
lest I add sins to sins, till no repentance will cure me.   Bac. 

Leave these melancholy moods,  
That I may swear thee welcome on thy lips  
A thousand times.   Leuc. 

Pray leave this wicked talk,  
You do not know to what my Father's wrong  
May urge me.   Bac. 

I me careless, and do weigh  
The world, my life, and all my after hopes  
Nothing without thy Love, mistake me not:  
Thy Love, as I have had it, free and open  
As wedlock is, within itself, what say you?   Leu. 

Nothing.   Bac. 

Pity me, behold a Duchess  
Kneels for thy mercy, and I swear to you,  
Though I should lie with you, it is no Lust,  
For it desires no change, I could with you  
Content myself: what answer will you give?   Leuc. 

They that can answer must be less amazed,  
Then I am now: you see my tears deliver  
My meaning to you.   Bac. 

Shall I be contemned? thou art a beast, worse than a savage beast,  
To let a Lady kneel, to beg that thing  
Which a right man would offer.   Leu. 

'tis your will Heaven: but let me bear me like  
myself, however she does.   Ba. 

Were you made an Eunuch, since you went hence? yet they have more desire than I can find in you:  
How fond was I to beg thy love? He force thee to my will  
Dost thou not know that I can make the King  
Dote as my list? yield quickly, or by Heaven  
I'll have thee kept in prison for my purpose,  
Where I will make thee serve my turn, and have thee fed  
With such meats as best shall sit my ends  
And not thy health, why dost not speak to me?  
And when thou dost displease me, and art grown  
Less able to perform; then I will have thee  
Killed and forgotten: Are you stricken dumb?   Leu. 

All you have named, but making of me sin  
With you, you may command, but never that;  
Say what you will, I'll hear you as becomes me,  
If you speak, I will not follow your counsel,  
Neither will I tell the world to your disgrace,  
But give you the just honour  
That is due from me to my Father's wife.   Bac: 

Lord how full of wise formality you are grown  
Of late: but you were telling me  
You could have wished that I had married you,  
If you will swear so yet, I'll make away the King.   Leuc. 

You are a strumpet.   Bach. 

Nay, I care not  
For all your Railings: They will Batter walls  
And take in Towns, as soon as trouble me  
Tell him, I care not, I shall undo you only, which is no matter.   Leuc: 

I appeal to you still, and for ever, that are  
And cannot be other, madam I see 'tis in your power  
To work your will on him: And I desire you  
To lay what trains you will for my wished death,  
But suffer him to find his quiet grave  
In peace; Alas he never did you wrong,  
And further I beseech you pardon me,  
For the ill word I gave you, for however  
You may deserve, it became not me  
To call you so, but passion urges me  
I know not whether my heart break now, & ease me ever.   Bac. 

Pray you get you hence  
With your goodly humour, I am weary of you extremely.   Leuc. 

Trust me, so am I of myself too:  
madam, I'll take my leave; gods set all right.   Bac. 

Amen, Sir get you gone;  
Am I denied? it does not trouble me  
That I have moved, but that I am refused:  
I have lost my patience: I will make him know  
Lust is not Love, for Lust will find a mate  
While there are men, and so will I: & more   Enter Timantus. 

Then one, or twenty: yonder is Timantus,  
A fellow void of any worth, to raise himself  
And therefore like to catch at any evil  
That will but pluck him up, him will I make  
Mine own: Timantus.   Timantus. 

madam?   Bac: 

Thou knowest well  
Thou wert, by chance a means of this my raising:  
Brought the Duke to me, and though 'twere but chase  
I must reward thee.   Tim. 

I shall bend my service unto your Highness.   Baca. 

But do it then entirely, and in every thing,  
and tell me, Couldst thou now think that thing  
Thou wouldst not do for me?   Timant. 

not by my soul madam.   Baca. 

Then thou art right.  
Go to my Lodging, and I'll follow thee   Exit Timantus. 

With my instruction I do see already,  
This prince that did but now contemn me, dead:  
Yet will I never speak an evil word  
Unto his Father of him till I have won  
A belief I love him, but I'll make  
His virtues his undoing, and my praises  
Shall be so many swords against his breast,  
Which once performed, I'll make Urania  
My Daughter, the king's heir, and plant my Issue,  
In this large Throne: Nor shall it be withstood,  
They that begin in Lust, must end in blood.   Exit. Enter Dorialus, Agenor, Nisus. Doria. 

we live to know a fine time, Gentl.   Nus. 

And a fine Duke, that through his doting age  
Suffers him to be a child again  
Under his wives tuition.   Agen. 
All the Land holds in that tenor too: in woman's service? sure we shall learn to spin.  Dor. 

No, that's too honest: we shall have other  
Liberal Sciences taught us too soon;  
Lying, and Flattering, those are the studies now:  
And Murder shortly I know, will be humanity Gent.  
If we live here we must be knaves, believe it.   Nis. 

I cannot tell my Lord Dorialus, though my  
Own nature hate it, if all determine to be knaves,  
I'll try what I can do upon myself, that's certain,  
I will not have my throat cut for my goodness,  
The virtue will not quit the pain.   Age. 

But pray you tell me,  
Why is the Prince, now ripe and full experient,  
Not made a door in the State?   Nis. 

Because he is honest.   Enter Timantus. Tim. 

Goodness attend your Honours.   Dor. 

You must not be amongst us then.   Tim. 
The Duchess, whose humble Servant I am proved to be, would speak with you.  Age. 

Sir we are pleased to wait: when is it?   Tim. 
An hour hence my good Lords, and so I leave my service.  Dor. 
This is one of her Ferrets that she bolts business out withal: this fellow, if he were well ripped, has all the linings of a knave within him: how sly he looks?  Nis. 
Have we nothing about our clothes that he may catch at?  Agenor. 
O' my conscience there's no treason in my doublet, if there be, my elbows will discover it, they are out.  Dor. 
Faith, and all the harm that I can find in mine is, that they are not paid for, let him make what he can of that, so he discharge that. Come, let's go.  (Exeunt. Enter Bach, Leontius, Tella. Bac. 
And you shall find sir what a blessing heaven gave you in such a son.  L. 

Pray gods I may. Let's walk & change out subject.   B. 
O sir, can any thing come sweeter to you, or strike a deeper joy into your heart than your son's virtue?  L. 
I allow his virtues: but 'tis not handsome thus to feed myself with such moderate praises of mine own.  Bac. 
The subject of our commendations is itself grown so infinite in goodness, that all the glory we can lay upon it, though we should open volumes of his praises, is a mere modesty in his expression, and shows him lame still, like an ill wrought piece wanting proportion.  Leo. 
Yet still he is a man, and subject still to more inordinate vices, than our love can give him blessing.  Bac. 
Else he were a god: yet so near as he is, he comes to heaven, that we may see so far as flesh can point us things only worthy them, and only these in all his actions.  Leon. 

This is too much my Queen.   Bach. 
Had the gods loved me, that my unworthy womb had bred this brave man.  Leon. 

Still you run wrong.   Bac. 
'a would have lived upon the comfort of him, fed on his growing hopes.  Leo. 
This touches me.  Bac. 

I know no friends, nor being, but his virtues.   L. 

You have laid out words enough upon a subject.   Bac. 
But words cannot express him sir: why what a shape Heaven has conceived him in, oh Nature made him up!  Leon. 
I wonder Duchess.  Bac. 
So you must: for less than admiration loses this godlike man.  Leon. 
Have you done with him?  Bach. 
Done with? o good gods what frailties this pass by us without reverence!  Leon. 

I see no such perfection.   Bac: 

O dear Sir: you are a father, and those i oyes  
To you speak in your heart, not in your tongue.   Lco. 

This leaves a taste behind it worse than physic.   Baca. 

Then for all his wisdom, valour,  
Good Fortune, and all those Friends of honour,  
They are in him as free and natural as passions  
In a Woman.   Leon. 

You make me blush at all these years  
To see how blindly you have flung your praises  
Upon a Boy, a very child, and worthless,  
Whilst I live of these Honours.   Bac. 

I would not have my love Sir: Make my tongue  
Show me so much a woman: as to praise  
Or dispraise, where my will is, without reason  
Or general allowance of the people.   Leon. 

Allowance of the people, what allow they   Bac. 

All, I have seed for truth, and they must do it,  
And dote upon him: love him, and admire him.   Leon: 

how's that?   Bac. 

For in this youth and noble frowardness  
All things are bound together that are kingly  
A fitness to bear rule   Leon. 

No more   Bac. 

And sovereignty, not made to know command   Leon. 

I have said no more.   Bac. 

I have done Sir though unwilling, and pardon me.   Leon. 

I do, not a word more   Baca. 

I have given thee poison  
Of more infection than the dragon's tooth  
Or the gross Air over heated.   Leon. 

Timantus when saw you the prince?   Tim, 

I left him now Sir.   Leon. 
Tell me truly, out of your free opinion without courting, How you like him:  Tim, 

How I like him?   Leon. 
Yes, for you in conversation may see more than a Father.  Bac: 

It works.   Timantus. 

Your grace has chosen out an ill observer.   Leon. 

Yes I mean of his Ill: you take rightly.   Tim. 

But you take me wrong: All I know by him  
I dare deliver boldly: He is the storehouse  
And head of virtue: your great self excepted  
That feeds the Kingdom.   Leon. 
These are flatteries: speak me his vices there you do a service worth a Father's thanks.  Tim. 
Sir, I cannot, If there be any, sure they are the times which I could wish less dangerous. But pardon me, I am too bold.  Leon. 

You are not, forward and open what these dangers are.   Tima 

Nay, good Sir.   Leon. 

Nay fall not off again,  
I will have all.   Timan. 

Alas Sir, what am I, you should believe  
My eyes or ears, so subtle to observe  
Faults in a State, all my main business  
Is service to your Grace, and necessaries  
For my poor life.   Leon. 

do not displease me sirrah,  
But that you know tell me, and presently.   Timan. 

Since your Grace will have it  
I'll speak it freely: Always my obedience  
And Love preserved unto the Prince.   Timan. 

Prithee to the matter.   Tim. 

For Sir if you consider  
How like a Sun in all his great employments,  
How full of heat.   Leon. 

Make me understand what I desire.   Tim. 

And then at his return   Leon. 

Do not anger me.   Timan: 

Then thus Sir, All mislike ye,  
As they would do the gods, if they did dwell with 'em.   Loon. 

What?   Tim. 
Talk and prate, as their ignorant rages leads 'em, without Allegiance or Religion. For heavens sake have a care of your own person, I cannot tell, their wickedness may lead Farther than I dare think yet.  Leo. 

O base people.   Tim. 

Yet the prince, for who this is pretended may  
Persuade 'em, etc. no doubt will, virtue is ever watchful  
But be you still secured and comforted.   Leon. 

Heaven you have I offended, that this rod  
So heavy and unnatural, should fall upon me  
When I am old and helpless.   Tim. 
Brave Gentl: that such a madding love should follow thee, to rob thee of a Father: All the Court is full of dangerous whispers.  Leon. 
I perceive it, and spite of all they, strengths will make my safety: I'll cut him shorter.  Leon. 

I'll cut him shorter first, then let him rule.   Bac: 

What a foul Age is this, when Virtue is  
Made a sword to smite the virtuous? Alas, alas!   Leon. 

I'll teach him to fly lower.   Tim. 

By no means Sir, rather make more your love,  
And hold your favour to him: for 'tis now  
Impossible to yoke him, if his thoughts,  
As I must near believe, run with their rages,  
He never was so innocent, but what reason  
His grace has to with draw his love from me  
And other good men that are neert your person  
I cannot yet find out: I know my duty  
Has ever been attending.   Leon. 

'tis too plain: He means to play the villain,  
I'll prevent him, not a word more of this, be private.   Exit Leontus. Tim. 

madam t's done.   Bac. 

He cannot escape me. Have you spoken with the noble men?   Tim. 
Yes madam they are here: I wait a further service.  Bac. 
Till yet be the prince, you need no more instructions.  Tim. 
No I have it.  Exit Timantus. Enter Dorialus, Nisus, Agenor. Bac. 

That fool that willingly provokes a woman,  
Has made himself another evil Angel,  
And a new Hell, to which all other torments  
Are but mere pastime: Now my Noble Lords  
You must excuse me that unmannerly  
we have broke your private business.   Agen. 

Your good grace may command us, & that.   Bac. 

Faith my Lord Agenor: 'tis so good a cause  
I am confident, you cannot lose by it.   Dorialus. 

Which way does she Fish now?  
The Devil is but a Fool to a right woman.   Nisus. 

madam we must needs win in doing  
Service to such a gracious Lady.   Bac. 

I thank you, and will let you know the business: So I may have your helps, never be doubtful,  
For 'tis so just a cause, and will to you  
Upon the knowledge, seem so honourable,  
That I assure myself your willing hearts  
Will straight be for me in it.   Age. 

If she should prove good now, what wert like?   Dorial. 

Thunder in january, or a good woman,  
That's stranger than all Afric.   Baca. 

It shall not need your wonder, this it is;  
The Duke you know is old, and rather subject  
To ease and prayers now, than all those troubles,  
Cares, and continual watchings, that attend  
A kingdoms safety, therefore to prevent  
The fall of such a flourishing Estate  
As this has ever been, and to put off  
The murmur of the people that increase  
Against my government, which the gods knows  
I only feel the trouble of: I present  
The prince unto your loves, a Gent.  
In whom all Excellencies are knit together,  
All pieces of a true man, let your prayers  
Win from the Duke half his Vexation,  
That he may undertake it, whose discretion  
I must confess, though it be from the Father,  
Yet now is stronger, and more apt to govern.  
'tis not my own desire, but all the Lands  
I know the weakness of it.   Nisus. 

Madam, this noble care and love has won us  
For ever to your lives, we'll to the King,  
And since your Grace has put it in our mouths,  
we'll win him with the cunningest words we can.   Dorial: 

I was never cozened in a woman before,  
For commonly they are like Apples: If once they bruise  
They will grow rotten through, and serve for nothing but to assuage swellings.   Bac. 

Good Lords delay no time since 'tis your good  
Pleasures to think my counsel good, & by no means  
Let the prince know it, whose affections  
Will stir mainly against it; besides his Father,  
May hold him dangerous, if it be not carried  
So that his forward will appear not in it,  
Go, and be happy.   Dorial: 

Well, I would not be chronicled as thou  
Wilt be for a good woman, for all the world.   Nisus. 

madam, we kiss your hands, and so inspire  
Nothing but happiness can crown our prayers.   Exeunt.  

Actus quarti. Coena prima.  Enter Leucippus, Ismenus. Leu. 

And thus she has used me, be't not a good mother?   Ismenus. 

Why killed you her not?   Leuc. 

The Gods forbid it.   Ismenus. 

'Slight, if all the women i'th' world were  
Barren, she had died.   Leuc: 

But 'tis not reason directs thee thus.   Ismen. 

Then gave I none at all, for all I have in me  
Directs me: Your Father's in a pretty Rage.   Leucippus. 

Why.   Ismenus. 
Nay, 'tis well, if he know himself, but some of the Nobility have delivered a petition to him: what's in't, I know not, but it has put him to his trumps: he has taken a month's time to answer it and chafes like himself.  Enter Leontius, Bacha, and Tellamon. Leu. 

he's here Ismenus.   Leon. 

Set me down Telamon. Leucippus.   Leu. 

Sir.   Bach. 
Nay good sir be at peace, I dare swear he knew not of it.  Leon. 

You are foolish: peace.   Bach. 
All will go ill, deny it boldly sir, trust me he cannot prove it by you.  Leu. 

What!   Bach. 

You'll make all worse too with your facing it.   Leuc. 

What is the matter!   Leon. 

know'st thou that petition?  
Look on it well: wouldst thou be joined with me  
(Unnatural child to be weary of me)  
Ere Fate esteem me fit for other worlds.   Bac. 

May be he knows not of it.   Leuc. 

O strange carriages!  
Sir, As I have hope that there is any thing  
To reward doing well, my usages  
Which have been (but 'tis no matter what)  
Have put me so far from the thought of Greatness,  
That I should welcome it like a disease  
That grew upon me, and I could not cure.  
They are my enemies that gave you this,  
And yet they call me friend, and are themselves  
I fear abused. I am weary of my life,  
For God's sake take it from me: it creates  
More mischief in the State than it is worth.  
The usage I have had, I know would make  
Wisdom herself run frantic through the streets.  
And Patience quarrel with her shadow.  
Sir, this sword—   Bac. 

Alas: help for the love of heaven,  
Make way through me first, for he is your father,   Leon. 

What, would he kill me?   Bac. 

No sir, no.   Leo. 

Thou always mak'st the best on't: but I fear--   Leu. 

Why do you use me thus? who be't can think  
That I would kill my father, that can yet  
For bear to kill you? Here sir is my sword,  
I dare not touch it, lest she say again  
I would have killed you: let me not have mercy  
When I most need it, if I would not change  
Place with my meanest servant. Let these faults  
Be mended madam: if you saw how ill  
They did become you, you would part with them.   Bac. 

I told the Duke as much before.   Leuc. 

What? what did you tell him?   Bac. 

That it was only an ambition,  
Nursed in you by your youth, provoked you thus,  
Which age would take away.   Leon. 

It was his doing then: come hither Love.   Bac. 

No indeed sir.   Leu. 

How am I made; that I can bear all this?  
If any one had used a friend of mine near this,  
My hand had carried death about it.   Leon. 

Lead me hence Telamon: come my dear   Bacha, 

I shall find time for this.   Ism. 

madam, you know I dare not speak before  
The King; but you know well, if not I le tell it you,  
You are the most wickedest, and most murderous  
Strumpet that ever was called Woman.   Bac. 
My Lord, what I can do for him he shall command me.  Leon. 

I know thou art too kind; away I say.   Exit Leon. Bac. Tima. Tella. Isme. 

Sir, I am sure we dream this cannot be.   Leu. 

O that we did my wickedness has brought  
All this to pass, else I should bear myself.   Enter Urania. Isme. 
Look, do you see whose's there? your virtuous Mother's issue: kill her, yet take some little piddling revenge.  Leuc. 
Away, the whole Court calls her virtuous; for they say, she is unlike her mother and if so she can have no vice.  Is. 

I le trust none of 'em that come of such a breed.   Leu. 

But I have found  
A kind of love in her to me: alas,  
Think of her death; I dare be sworn for her,  
She is as free from any hate to me  
As her bad mother's full. She was brought up  
7th Country, as her tongue will let you know  
If you but talk with her, with a poor Uncle,  
Such as her mother had.   Ent. V. Isme. 

she's come again.   Vra. 
I would fain speak to the good marquis my brother, if I but thought he could abide me.  Leuc. 

Sister, how do you.   Vra. 

Very well I thank you.   Isme. 

How does your good mother?   Leuc. 
Fie, fie, Ismenus for shame, mock such an innocent soul as this.  Vra. 

faith a she be no good, God may her so.   Le. 
I know you wish it with your heart dear sister, but she is good I hope.  Isme. 

Are you so simple, to make so much of this,  
Do you not know,  
That all her wicked mother labours for, is but to raise  
Her to your right, and leave her this Dukedom.   Ura. 

ay, but near sir be afraid;  
For though she take th'ungainst weas she can,  
I'll near hat fro you.   Leuc. 

I should hate myself Ismenus;  
If I should think of her simplicity,  
Ought but extremely well.   Isme. 

Nay as you will.   Ura. 

And though she be my Mother,  
If she take any course to do you wrong,  
If I can see't, youst quickly hear on't sir:  
And so I'll take my leave.   Leu. 

Farewell good Sister, I thank you.   Exit Urania. Ismen. 

You believe all this:   Leu. 

Yes;   Enter Timantus. Ismen. 

A good faith doth well, but methinks  
It were no hard matter now, for her Mother to send  
Her: yonder's one you may trust if you will too.   Leu. 

So I will, if he can show me as apparent signs  
Of truth as she did; Does he weep Ismenus?   Ism. 
Yes, I think so: some goods happened I warrant; Do you hear you? What honest man has scaped misery, that you are crying thus?  Timantus. 

Noble Ismenus, where's the Prince?   Ismen. 

Why there; hast wept thine eyes out?   Timantus. 

Sir, I beseech you hear me.   Leuc. 

Well speak on.   Ismenus. 

Why will you hear him?   Leu. 

Yes Ismenus, why?   Ismenus. 

I would hear blasphemy as willingly.   Leu. 

You are to blame:   Tim. 

No Sir: He is not to blame;  
If I were as I was.   Ismen. 

Nor as thou art, i'faith a whit to blame,   Leuc. 

What's your business?   Tim. 

Faith Sir, I am ashamed to speak before you,  
My conscience tells me I have injured you,  
And by the earnest instigation,  
Of others have not done you to the King  
All ways the best and friendliest offices,  
Which pardon me, or I will never speak.   Ismen. 

Never pardon him and silence a knave.   Leu. 

I pardon thee.   Tim 

Your mother sure is nought   Leuc. 

Why shouldst thou think so?   Tim. 

O noble Sir, your honest eyes perceive not  
The dangers you are led to shame upon her,  
And what fell miseries the gods can think on  
Show down upon her wicked head, she has plotted,  
I know too well your death: would my poor life  
Or thousand such as mine is might be offered  
Like sacrifices up for your presuming,  
What free oblations would she have to glut her,  
But she is merciless, and bent to ruin,  
If Heaven and good men step not to your rescue,  
And timely, very timely, O this dukedom!  
I weep, I weep for the poor Orphans i'th' Country  
Left with but Friends; or parents.   Leuc. 

Now Ismenus, what think you of this fellow?  
This was a lying knave, a flatterer,  
Does not this love still show him so.   Ismen. 

This love, this halter: if he prove not yet  
The cunningest, rankest Rogue that ever Canted,  
I'll never see man again, I know him to bring,  
And can interpret every new face he makes,  
Look how he wrings like a good stool for a tear,  
Take heed, Children and Fools  
First feel the smart: Then weep.   Leac. 

A way, away, such an unkind distrust,  
Is worse than a dissembling, if it be one,  
And sooner leads to mischief I believe it,  
And him an honest man: he could not carry  
Under an evil cause so true a sorrow.   Ismenus. 

Take heed, this is your Mother's scorpion,  
That carries stings even in his tears,  
Whose soul is a rank poison through: Touch  
Not at him, if you do you are gone, if you had twenty  
Lives: I knew him from a Roguish boy, when  
He would poison Dogs, and keep tame Toads,  
He lay with his Mother, and infected her, and now  
She begs i'th' Hospital, with a patch of velvet,  
Where her Nose stood: like the queen of spades.  
And all her Teeth in her purse, the Devil and this  
Fellow are so near, 'tis not yet known which is the eviller Angel.   Leu. 
Nay then I see 'tis spite: Come hither friend. Hast thou not heard the cause yet that incensed my mother to my death, for I protest I feel none in myself?  Timantus. 

Her will Sir, and ambition, as I think  
Are the provokers of it as in women  
Those two are ever powerful to destruction,  
Beside a hate of your still growing virtues,  
She being only wicked.   Leu. 

heavens defend me as I am innocent,  
And ever have been from all immoderate thoughts and  
Actions, that carry such rewards along with 'em.   Tima. 

Sir all I know, my duty must reveal  
My country and my love command it from me,  
For whom I'll lay my life down, this night coming.  
A Counsel is appointed by the Duke,  
To sit about your apprehension:  
If you dare trust my faith: which by all good things  
Shall ever watch about you: Go along,  
And to a place I'll guide you: where no word,  
Shall scape without your hearing, Nor, no plot.  
Without discovering to you, which once known, you have your answers and prevention.   Is. 
You are not so mad to go; shift of this fellow, you shall be ruled once by a wise man: rat's bane get you gone, or—  L. 
Peace, peace for shame, thy love is too suspicious, 'tis away offered to preserve my life, and I will take it: be my Guide Timantus, and do not mind this angry man, thou know'st him: I may live to requite thee.  Ti. 
Sir, this service is done for virtues sake, not for reward, however he may hold me.  Is. 
The great pox on you: but thou hast that curse so much, 'twill grow a blessing in thee shortly. Sir, for wisdoms sake court not your death, I am your friend and subject, and I shall lose in both: if I loved you not, I would laugh at you, and see you run your neck into the noose, and cry a Woodcock.  Leu. 
So much of man, and so much fearful; fie, prithee have peace within thee: I shall live yet many a golden day to hold thee here dearest and nearest to me: Go on Timantus. I charge you by your love no more, no more.  Exeunt Leuc. Tim. Is. 

Go, and let your own rod whip you:  
I pity you, And dog, if he miscarry thou shalt pay for't,  
I'll study for thy punishment, and it shall last  
Longer and sharper than a tedious Winter,  
Till thou blasphem'st, and then thou diest and damn'st.   Exit. Enter Leontius and Tellamon. Leon. 

I wonder the Duchess comes not.   Tet. 

She has hard sir your will to speak with her:  
But there is some thing leaden at her heart  
(Pray God it be not mortal) that even keeps her  
From conversation with herself.   Enter the Duchess. B. 

O whither will ye me cross affections pull me?  
Fortune, Fate, & you whose powers direct our actions,  
And dwell within us: you that are Angels  
Guiding to virtue, wherefore have you given  
So strong a hand to evil? wherefore suffered  
A Temple of your own, you Deities  
Where your fair selves dwelled only, & your goodness  
Thus to be soiled with sin?   Leon. 

Heaven bless us all.  
From whence comes this distemper? speak my fair one.   Bac. 

And have you none, love and obedience,  
You ever faithful Servants to employ  
In this strange story of impiety,  
But me a Mother, Must I be your strumpet?  
To lay black treason upon and in him,  
In whom all sweetness was: in whom my love  
Was proved, to have a being, in whom justice,  
And all the gods for our imaginations  
Can work into a man, were more than virtues,  
Ambition down to Hell, where thou wert fostered  
Thou hast poisoned the best soul, the purest, whitest,  
And merest innocentest itself that ever  
Men's greedy hopes gave life to.   Leon. 

This is still stranger: lay this treason,  
Open to my correction.   Bac. 

O what a combat duty and affection  
Breeds in my blood.   Leon. 

If thou concealest him may  
Beside my death the curses of the Country,  
Troubles of conscience, and a wretched end,  
Bring thee unto a poor forgotten grave.   Bach. 

My being: for another tongue to tell it,  
Cease, a mother! some good man that dares  
Speak for his King and Country: I am full  
Of too much woman's pity: yet o Heaven,  
Since it concerns the safety of my sovereign  
Let it not be a cruelty in me  
Nor draw a Mother's name in question,  
Amongst unborn people, to give up that man:  
To law and justice that unrighteously  
Has sought his father's death: be dease, be dease Sir,  
Your Son is the offender, Now have you all,  
Would I might never speak again.   Leon. 

My Son? Heaven help me.  
No more I thought it: and since  
His life is grown so dangerous: Let them that  
Gave him, take him: He shall die,  
And with him all my fears.   Bac. 

O use your mercy: you have a brave subject  
To bestow it on, I'll forgive him Sir: and for his  
Wrong to me, I'll be before ye.   Leon. 

Durst his villainy extend to thee?   Bac. 

Nothing but heats of youth Sir.   Leon. 

Upon my life he sought my Bed.   Bach. 

I must confess he loved me:  
Somewhat beyond a Son, and still pursued it  
With such a Lust: I will not say Ambition,  
That clean forgetting all obedience,  
And only following his first heat unto me,  
He hotly fought your death, and me in Marriage.   Leon. 

O Villain!   Bac. 

But I forget all: and am half ashamed  
To press a man so far.   Enter Timantus. 

Where is the Duke? for God's sake bring me to him.   Leon. 

Here I am; Each corner of the Dukedom  
Sends new affrights forth: what wouldst thou speak?   Timantus. 

I cannot Sir, my fear ties up my tongue.   Leon. 

Why, what's the matter? Take thy courage  
To thee; and boldly speak, where are the Guard?  
In the God's name, cut with it:   Tim. 

Treason, treason.   Leon. 

In whom?   Bac. 

Double the Guard.   Timantus. 

There is a fellow Sir.   Leon. 

Leave shaking man.   Timant. 

'Tis not for fear, but wonder. Leon. Well.   Timant. 

There is a fellow Sir, close i'th' Lobby:  
You oath Guard, look to the door there.   Leon. 

But let me know the business.   Tima. 

O that the hearts of men should be so hardened  
Against so good a Duke, for God's sake Sir,  
Seek means to save yourself, This wretched slave  
Has his sword in his hand, I know his heart:  
Oh it hath almost killed me with the thought of it.   Leon. 

Where is he?   Enter the Guard, and bring him in. Timant. 

The Lobby Sir, close in a corner:  
Look to yourselves, for heavens sake,  
methinks he is here already.  
fellows of the Guard be valiant.   Leon. 

Go sirs, and apprehend him; Treason shall  
Never dare me in mine own Gates.   Tim. 

'tis done.   There they bring the Prince in. Bac: 

And thou shalt find it to thy best content.   Lesn. 

Are these the comforts of my Age?  
Theyre happy that end their days Contented  
With a little, and live aloof from dangers, to a King  
Every content doth a new; peril bring.  
O let me live no longer, shame of Nature,  
Bastard to Honour: Traitor, Murderer,  
Devil in a human shape, A way with him,  
He shall not breathe his hot infection here.   Leuc. 

Sir hear me.   Leon. 

Am I or he your Duke? away with 'im  
To a close prison: your Highness now shall know,  
Such branches must be cropped before they grow,   Leuc. 

whatever Fortune comes, I bid it welcome,  
My innocency is my Armour: Gods preserve you.   Exit. Bac. 

Fare thee well. I shall never see so brave a gentleman:  
Would I could weep out his offences.   Tim. 

Or I would weep out mine eyes.   Leon. 

Come Gentlemen, we'll determine presently  
About his death: we cannot be too forward in our  
Safety: I am very sick, lead me unto my Bed.   Exeunt. Enter Citizen and his Boy. Citizen. 
sirrah, go fetch my Fox from the Cutlers: There's money for the scouring: Tell him, I stop a Groat since the last great Muster: He had in store Pitch for the bruise. He took with the recoiling of his Gun.  Boy. 

Yes Sir.   Cittiz. 
And do you hear? when thou come, Take down my Buckler, and sweep the cobwebs off: and Grind the pick out, and fetch a Nail or two: and Tack on bracers: your Mistress made a potlid on't, I thank her at her maids wedding, and burned off the Handle.  Boy, 

I will Sir.   Exit. Cittiz. 
who's within here, hoe Neighbour, not stirring yet?  2. Cittiz. 

O God morrow, god morrow: what  
News, what news?   1, Cittiz. 

It holds, he dies this morning.   2. Cittiz: 

Then happy man be his fortune, I am resolved,   1. Cittiz: 

And so am I, and 40. more good fellows  
That will not give their heads for the washing, I take it.   2. Cittiz. 
'sfoot man, who would not hang in such Good company, and such a cause? A Fire a Wife and Children, 'tis such a jest that men should look behind 'em to the world: And let their honours, their honour's Neighbour slip.  1. Cittiz. 

I'll give thee a pint of Bastard and a roll For that bare word,   2. Cittiz. 

They say that we Tailors, are things that  
Say one another, and our Geese hatch us: I'll make some of 'em feel they are Geese ath game then,  
I'fack take down my Bill, 'tis ten to one I use it, Take a  
Good heart man, all the low ward is ours, with a wet  
Finger.  
And lay my cut-fingered Gauntlet ready for me,  
That that I used to work in, when the Gentl: were  
Up against us, a beaten out of town, and almost out a  
Debt to, for a plague on 'em, they never paid well since,  
And take heed sirrah: your mistress hears not of this  
Business, she's near her time: yet if she do,  
I care not, she may long for Rebellion,  
For she has a devilish spirit,   1. Cittiz. 

Come, let's call up the new ironmonger, is as  
Tough as steel, & has a fine wit in these resurrections:  
Are you stirring Neighbour?   3. Within. 

O Good morrow Neighbours,  
I'll come to you presently.   2. 

Go too, this is his Mother's doing: she's a Polecat.   1. 

As any is in the world.   2. 
Then say I have hit it, and a vengeance on her, let her be what she will.  1. 
Amen say I, she has brought things to a fine pass with her wisdom, do you mark it?  2. 
One thing I am sure she has, the good old Duke she gives him pap again they say, and dandles him, and hangs a coral and bells about his neck, and makes him believe his teeth will come again; which if they did, and I he, I would worry her as never cur was worried: I would neighbour till my teeth met I know where, but that's counsel.  Enter third Citizen. 3. 
Good morrow neighbours: hear you the sad news?  1. 

Yes, would we knew as well how to prevent it.   3. 
I cannot tell, methinks 'twere no great matter, if men were men: but—  2. 

You do not twit me with my calling neighbour?   3. 
No surely: for I know your spirit to be tall, pray be not vexed.  1. 
Pray forward with your counsel: I am what I am, and they that prove me, shall find me to their cost: do you mark me neighbour, to their cost I say.  1. 

Nay look how soon you are angry.   2. 

They shall neighbours: yes, I say they shall.   3. 

I do believe they shall.   1. 

I know they shall.   2. 

Whether you do or no I care not twopence,  
I am no beast, I know mine own strength neighbours;  
God bless the King, your companies is fair.   1. 
Nay neighbour now ye err, I must tell you so and ye were twenty neighbours,  3. 

You had best go peach, do, peach.   2. 

Peach, I scorn the motion.   3. 
Do, and see what follows: I'll spend an hundred pound, and be two I care not, but I'll undo thee.  2. 
Peach, o disgrace: peach in thy face, and do the worst thou canst: I am a true man, and a freeman peach!  1. 

Nay look, you will spoil all.   2. 

Peach!   1. 
Whilst you two brawl together, the Prince will lose his life.  3. 
Come, give me your hand, I love you well, are you for the action.  2. 

Yes: but peach provokes me, 'tis a cold fruit,  
I feel it cold in my stomach still.   3. 

No more, I'll give you cake to digest it.   Enter the fourth. 4. 
Shut up my shop, and be ready at a call boys, and one of you run over my old tuck with a few ashes, 'tis grown odious with toasting cheese: and burn a little juniper in my murrain, the maid made it her chamber-pot, an hour hence I'll come again; and as you here from me, send me a clean shirt.  3. 

The Chandler by the wharf, and it be thy will.   2. 

Gossip good morrow.   4. 
O good morrow Gossip: good morrow all, I see we of one mind you cleave so close together: come 'tis time, I have prepared a hundred if they stand.  1. 

'tis well done: shall we sever, and about it?   3. 
First let's to the Tavern, and a pint a piece will make us Dragons.  2. 

I will have no mercy, come what will of it.   4. 
If my tuck hold I'll spit the Guard like Larks with sage between 'em.  2. 
I have a foolish bill to reckon with 'em, will make some of their hearts ache, and I'll lay it on: now shall I fight, 'twill do you good to see me.  3. 
Come I'll do something for the Town to talk of when I am rotten: pray God there be enough to kill, that's all.  Exeunt. Enter Dorialus, Nifus, Agenor. Age. 

How black the day begins!   Dor. 
Can you blame it, and look upon such a deed as shall be done this morning?  Nis. 

Does the Prince suffer today?   Dor. 

Within this hour they say.   Agen. 
Well, they that are most wicked are most safe: 'twill be a strange justice and a lamentable, gods keep us from the too soon feeling of it.  Dor. 
I care not if my throat were next: for to live still, and live here, were but to grow fat for the Shambles.  Nis. 
Yet we must do it, and thank 'em too, that our lives may be accepted.  Age. 
Faith I'll go starve myself, or grow diseased to shame the hangman; for I am sure he shall be my Herald, and quarter me.  Dor. 
I a plague on him, he's too excellent at arms.  Nisus. 
Will you go see this sad sight my Lord Agenor?  Age. 

I'll make a mourner.   Dor. 
If I could do him any good I would go, The bare sight else will but afflict my spirit, my prayers shall be as near him as your eyes: As you find him settled, remember my love and service to his Grace.  Nis. 

We will weep for joy sir, farewell.   Exit. Dor. 

Farewell to all our happiness, a long farewell.  
Thou angry power, whether of heaven or hell,  
That layst this sharp correction on our Kingdom  
For our offences, infinite and mighty,  
O hear me, and at length be pleased, be pleased  
With pity to draw back thy vengeance,  
Too heavy for our weakness; and accept,  
(Since it is your discretion, heavenly Wisdoms,  
To have it so) this sacrifice for all,  
That now is flying to your happiness,  
Only for you most fit: let all our sins suffer in him.   A shute within. 

Gods, what's the matter! I hope 'tis joy.  
How now my Lords?   Enter Agenor and Nisus. Nis. 

I'll tell you with that little breath I have;  
More joy than you dare think, The Prince is safe from  
Danger.   Dor. 

How!   Age. 

'tis true, and thus it was; His hour was come  
To lose his life, he ready for the stroke,  
Nobly, and full of Saintlike patience,  
Went with his Guard: which when the people saw,  
Compassion first went out, mingled with tears,  
That bred desires, and whispers to each other,  
To do some worthy kindness for the Prince.  
And ere they understood well how to do,  
Fury stepped in, and taught them what to do,  
Thrusting on every hand to rescue him,  
As a white innocent: then flew the roar  
Through all the streets, of Save him, save him, save him;  
And as they cried, they did for catching up  
Such sudden weapons as their madness show them.  
In short, they beat the Guard, & took him from 'em,  
And now march with him like a royal Army.   Dor. 

Heaven, heaven I thank thee,  
What a slave was I to have my hand so far from  
This brave rescue, 't'ad been a thing to brag on  
When I was old. Shall we run for a wager to the  
Next Temple and give thanks?   Nis. 

As fast as wishes.   Enter Leucippus and Ismenus: the people within stops. Leu. 
Good friends go home again, there's not a man shall go with me.  Isme. 

Will you not take revenge? I le call them on.   Leuc. 

All that love me depart:  
I thank you, and will serve you for your loves:  
But I will thank you more to suffer me  
To govern 'em once: more, I do beg ye,  
For my sake to your houses.   All within. 

Gods preserve you.   Isme. 

And what house will you go to?   Leu. 
Ismenus I will take the wariest courses that I can think of to defend myself, but not offend.  Isme. 
You may kill your mother, and never offend your father an honest man.  Leu. 
Thou know'st I can scape now, that's all I look for: I'll leave.  Isme. 
Tima. a pox take him, would I had him here, I would kill him at his own weapon single scythes we have built enough on him: plague on't, I'm out of all patience: discharge such an Army as this, that would have followed you without paying, o gods!  Leu. 

To what end should keep 'em? I am free.   Is. 
Yes, free o'th' Traitors, for you are proclaimed one.  Leu. 

Should I therefore make my selse one?   Isme. 

This is one of your moral Philosophy is it?  
Heaven bless me from subtleties to undo myself with;  
But I know if, reason herself were here,  
She would not part with her own safety.   Leu. 

Well, pardon Ismenus, for I know  
My courses are most just; nor will I stain 'em  
With one bad action: for thyself, thou know'st,  
That though I may command thee, I shall be  
A ready servant to thee if thou needst: and so I'll  
Take my leave.   Isme. 

of whom?   Leu. 

Of thee.   Isme. 

Heart, you shall take no leave of me.   Leu. 

Shall I not?   Isme. 
No by the gods shall you not: nay if you have no more wit but to go absolutely alone, I'll be in a little.  Leu. 

Nay prithee good Ismenus part with me.   Isme. 
I wonot i'faith, never move it any more; for by this good light I wonot.  Leu. 

This is an ill time to be thus unruly:  
Ismenus you must leave me.   Isme. 
Yes if you can beat me away: else, the gods refuse me if I will leave you till I see more reason; you shan't undo yourself.  Leu. 

But why wilt not leave me?   Isme. 
Why I'll tell you, Because when you are gone, then— life, if I have not forgot my reason— he'll take me: you put me out of patience so: O! marry when you are gone, then will your Mother: a pox confound her, she never comes in my head but she spoils my memory to: there are a hundred reasons.  Leu. 

But show me one.   Isme. 
Show you, what a stir here is, why I will show you: Do you think; well, well, I know what I know, I pray come, come. 'tis in vain: but I am sure. devils take 'em, what do I meddle with 'em? You know yourself. Soul, I think I am: is there any man i'th' world? as if you knew not this already better than I. Pish, pish, I le give no reason.  Le. 

But I will tell thee one why thou shouldst stay:  
I have not one friend in the Court but thou,  
On whom I may be bold to trust to send me  
Any intelligence: and if thou lov'st me  
Thou wilt do this, thou needst not fear to stay,  
For there are newcome Proclamations out;  
Where all are pardoned but myself.   Isme. 
'tis true, and in the same Proclamation your fine sister Urania, whom you used so kindly, is proclaimed heir apparent to the Crown.  Le. 
What though, thou mayst stay at home without danger.  Isme. 
Danger, hang danger, what tell you me of danger?  Leu. 
Why if thou wilt not do't, I think thou dar'st not.  Isme. 
I dare not: if you speak it in earnest, you are a boy.  Leu. 

Well fir, if you dare, let me see you do't.   Isme. 

Why so you shall, I will stay.   Leu. 

Why God a mercy.   Ism. 

You know I love you but too well.   Leu. 
Now take these few directions: farewell, send to me by the wariest ways thou canst: I have a soul tells me we shall meet often. The gods protect thee.  Isme. 
Pox o'me self for an Ass, I me crying now, God be with you, if I never see you again: why then pray get you gone, for grief and anger wonot let me know what I say. I'll to the Court as fast as I can, and see the new heir apparent.  Exeunt. 
Finis Actus quartus.   

Actus Quintus. Scoeni Primi.  Enter Urania and her woman. Vran. 

What hast thou sound him?   Wo. 

madam he is coming in.   Vran. 

Gods bless my brother wheresoe'er he is:  
And I you keep me fro the bed  
Of any naughty Tyrant whom my mother  
Would ha' me have to wrong him.   Enter Ismenus. Isme. 

What would her new Grace have with me?   Vra. 

Leave us a while. My Lord Ismenus,   Exit M. 

I pray for the love of heaven and God,  
That you would tell me one thing, which I know  
You can do we'll.   Ism. 

Where's her feign Grace?   V. 

You know me we'll enough, but that you mock,  
I am she my sen.   Isme. 
God bless him that shall be thy husband, if thou wear'st breeches thus soon, thou'lt be as impudent as thy mother.  Vra. 

But will you tell me this one thing?   Ism. 
What be't? if it be no great matter whether I do or no, perhaps I will.  Vra. 

Yes faith 'tis matter.   Ism. 

And what be't?   Vra. 

I pray you let we know where the Prince my brother is.   Ism. 
i'faith you shan be hanged first, is your mother so foolish to think your good Grace can sift it out of me?  urania. 
If you have any mercy left i'you to a poor wench tell me.  Isme. 
Why wouldst not thou have thy brains beat out for this, to follow thy mother's steps so young?  Vra. 

But believe me, she knows none of this.   Isme. 
Believe you? why do you think I never had wits? or that I am run out of them? how should it belong to you to know, If I could tell?  Vra. 

Why I will tell you: and if I speak false  
Let the Devil ha' me, Yonder's a bad man,  
Come from a tyrant to my mother, and what name  
They ha' for him, good faith I cannot tell.   Isme. 

An Ambassador.   Vra. 

That's it: but he would carry me away,  
And have me marry his Master; and I'll day  
Ere I will ha' him.   Is. 

But what's this to knowing where the Prince is?   Vra. 

Yes, for you know all my mother does:  
Again the Prince is but to ma me great.   Isme. 

Pray, I know that too well, what ten?   Vra. 

Why I would go to the good marquis my  
Brother, and put myself into his hands, that so  
He may preserve himself.   Isme. 
O that thou hadst no seed of thy Mother in thee, and couldst mean this now.  Vra. 
Why faith I do, would I might near stir more if I do not.  Ism. 
I shall prove a ridiculous fool, I'll be damned else: hang me if I do not half believe thee.  Vra. 

By my troth you may.   Isme. 

By my troth I do: I know I'm an Ass for't,  
But I cannot help it.   Ura. 

And won you tell me then?   Ism. 

Yes faith will I, or any thing else i'th' world, for  
I think thou art as good a creature as ever was borne.   Vra. 

But ail go in'is ladst reparel:  
But you must help me to Silver.   Ismenus. 
Help thee: why the Pox take him that will not help thee to any thing i'th' world; I'll help thee to Money, and I'll do't presently to, and yet soul, If you should play the scurvy Harlotry little pocky baggage now and cozen me, what then?  Ura. 

Why, an I do, would I might near see day again.   Ism. 

Nay by this light I do not think thou wilt:  
I'll presently provide thee money and a letter.   Exit Is. Ura. 

ay but I'll near deliver it.  
When I have found my Brother, I will beg  
To serve him; but he shall never know who I am;  
For he must hate me then for my bad mother:  
I'll say I am a country Lad that want a service,  
And have strayed on him by chance, lest he discover me;  
I know I must not live long, but that taime  
I ha' to spend, shall be in serving him.  
And though my Mother seek to take his life away,  
In ai day my brother shall be taught that I was  
Ever good, though she were nought.   Exit. Enter Bacha and Timantus: Bacha reading a Letter. Bach. 

Run away, the devil be her guide.   Tim. 
Faith she's gone: there's a Letter I found it in her pocket, would I were with her, she's a handsome Lady, a plague upon my bashfulness, I had bobbed her long ago else.  Bac. 

What a base Whore is this, that after all  
My ways for her advancement, should so poorly make virtue her undoer, and choose this time,  
The King being deadly sick: and I intending  
A present marriage with some foreign Prince,  
To strengthen and secure myself. She writes here  
Like a wise Gentle woman; She will not stay:  
And the example of her dear brother, makes her  
Fear herself, to whom she means to fly.   Timan. 

Why, who can help it?   Bac. 
Now poverty and Lechery which is thy end, rot thee, where ere to goest with all thy goodness.  Timan. 
by’r lady they'll bruise her: and she wear a brass. I am sure they'll break stone walls: I have had experience of them both, and they have made me desperate: but there's a Messenger Madam come from the Prince with a Letter to Ismenus, who by him returns an answer.  Bac. 
This comes as pat as wishes: thou shalt presently away Timantus.  Tim. 

Whither madam?   Ba. 

To the Prince, and take the Messenger for guide.   Tim. 
What shall I do there? I have done too much mischief to be believed again, or indeed, to scape with my head on my back if I be once known.  Bac. 
Thou art a weak shallow fool: get thee a disguise, and withal, when thou comest before him, have a Letter feigned to deliver him; and then, as thou hast ever hope of goodness by me, or after me, strike one home stroke that shall not need another: dar'st thou speak, dar'st thou? if thou fall'st off, go be a Rogue a again, and lie and Pander to procure thy meat: darest thou speak to me.  Tim. 
Sure I shall never walk when I am dead. I have no spirit madam, I'll be drunk but I'll do it, that's all my refuge.  Exit. Bac. 
Away, no more, then I'll raise an Army whilst the King yet lives, if all the means and power I have can do it I cannot tell.  Enter Ismenus and 3. Lords. Is. 

Are you inventing still? we'll ease your studies.   Bac. 

Why how now saucy Lords?   Ism. 

Nay I'll shake ye, yes devil, I will shake ye.   Bac. 

Do not you know me Lords?   Nis. 

Yes deadly sin we know ye, would we did not.   Ism. 
Do you hear Whore, a plague a God upon thee, the Duke is dead.  Bash. 

Dead!   Ism. 
ay, wildfire and brimstone take thee: good man he is dead, and past those miseries which thou, salt infection-like, like a disease, flungst upon his head. Doffed thou hear, and 'twere not more respect in Womanhood in general than thee, because I had a Mother, who I will not say she was good, she lived so near thy time, I would have thee in vengeance of this man, whose peace is made in heaven by this time, tied to a post, and dried i'th' sun, and after carried about and shone at fairs for money, with a long story of the devil thy father that taught thee to be whorish, envious, bloody.  Bac. 

Ha, ha, ha.   Isme. 
You fleering harlot, I'll have a horse to leap thee, and thy base issue shall carry Sumpters. Come Lords, bring her along, we'll to the Prince all, where her hell-hood shall wait his censure; and if he spare thee she Goat, may he lie with thee again; and beside, mayst thou upon him some nasty foul disease that hate still follows, and his end, a dry ditch. Lead you corrupted whore, or I'll draw good shall make you skip: away to the Prince.  Bac. 
Ha, ha, ha, I hope yet I shall come too late to find him.  Cornets. Cupid from above. Enter Loucippus, IUrana,: Leu, with a bloody handkercher. Leu. 

Alas poor boy, why dost thou follow me?  
What canst thou hope for? I am poor as thou art.   Vra. 

In good faith I shall be well and rich enough  
If you will love me, and not put me from you.   L. 

Why dost thou choose out me boy to undo thee?  
Alas, for pity take another Master,  
That may be able to deserve thy love  
In breeding thee hereafter: me thou know'st not  
More than my misery: and therefore canst not  
Look for rewards at my hands: would I were able,  
My pretty knave, to do thee any kindness: truly  
Good boy, I would upon my faith thy harmless  
innocence moves me at heart, wilt thou go  
Save thyself, why dost thou weep? Alas I do not chide thee.   Urania. 
I cannot tell if I go from you, Sir I shall near dawn day more: Pray if you can I will be true To you: Let me wait on you: If I were a man, I would fight for you: Sure you have some ill-willers, I would slay 'em.  Leu. 
Such harmless souls are ever Prophets, well I take thy wish, thou shalt be with me still: But prithee eat, than my good Boy: Thou wilt die my child If thou fasts one day more. This four days thou hast tasted nothing: Go into the Cave and eat: Thou shalt find something for thee, to bring thy blood again, and thy fair colour.  Ura. 

I can not eat God thank you,  
But I'll eat tomorrow.   Leuc. 

though't be dead by that time.   Ur. 

I should be well then, for you will not love me.   Leu. 
Indeed I will. This is the prettiest passion that ere I felt yet: why dost you look so earnestly upon me?  Vra. 

You have fair eyes Master.   Leu. 

Sure the Boy dotes: why dost thou sigh my child?   Vra. 
To think that such a fine man should live, and no gay Lady love him.  Leu. 

Thou wilt love me?   Vra. 
Yes sure till I die, and when I am in heaven I'll e'en wish for you.  Leu. 
And I'll come to thee Boy. This is a love I never yet heard tell of: come, thou art sleepy child, go in; and I'll sit with thee: heaven what portends this?  Vra. 
You are sad, but I am not sleepy, would I could do aught to make you merry: shall I sing?  Leu. 

If thou wilt good Boy.   Leu. 
Alas my boy, that thou shouldst comfort me, and art far worse than I:  Enter Timantus with a letter disguised. Vra. 

Law Master, there's one, look to your sen.   Leu. 

What art thou, that in this dismal place,  
Which nothing could find out but misery,  
Thus boldly stepped? Comfort was never here,  
Here is nor food, nor beds, nor any house  
Built by a better Architect than beasts;  
And ere you get dwelling from one of them,  
You must fight for it: if you conquer him,  
He is your meat; if not, you must be his.   Tim. 
I come to you (for if I not mistake, you are the Prince) from that most Noble Lord Ismenus with a Letter.  Ura. 

Alas, I fear I shall be discovered now.   Leu. 

Now I feel myself the poorest of all mortal things.  
Where is he that receives such courtesies,  
But he has means to show his gratefulness  
Some way or other? I have none at all:  
I know not how to speak so much as well  
Of thee but to these trees.   Leucippus opening the Letter, the whilst Timantus runs at him, and urania steps before. Tim. 

His Letters speak him sir—   Vra. 
Gods keep me but fro knowing him till I die: ay me, sure I cannot live a day, o thou foul Traitor: How do you Master?  Leu. 
How dost thou my child? alas, look on his, it may make thee repentant, to behold those innocent drops that thou hast drawn from thence.  Vra. 

'tis nothing sir and you be well.   Tim. 

O pardon me, know you me now sir?   Leu. 

How couldst thou find me out?   Tima. 
We intercepted a Letter from Ismenus, and the bearer directed me.  Leu. 

Stand up Timantus boldly,  
The world conceives that thou art guilty  
Of divers treasons to the State and me:  
But o far be it from the innocence  
Of a just man to give a traitor death  
Without a trial: here thy Country is not  
To purge thee or condemn thee; therefore  
A nobler trial than thou dost deserve,  
Rather than none at all, here I accuse thee  
Before the face of heaven, to be a traitor  
Both to the Duke my father and to me, and the  
Whole Land: speak, is it so or no?   Tim. 

'tis true sir, pardon me.   Leu. 
Take heed Timantus how thou dost cast away thyself, I must proceed to execution hastily if thou confess it: speak once again, be't so or no?  Tim. 

I am not guilty sir.   Fight here: the Prince gets his sword and gives it him. Leu. 

Gods and thy sword acquit thee, here it is.   Timantus. 

I will not use any violence against your Highness.   Leu. 
At thy peril then, for this must be thy trial: and from hence forth look to thyself.  Timantus draws his sword, and runs at him when he turns aside. Tim. 

I do beseech you sir let me not fight.   Leu. 

Up, up again Timantus,  
There is no way but this believe me.  
Now if— Fie, fie Timantus, is there no  
Usage can recover thee from baseness? wert thou  
Longer to converse with men, I would have chid  
Thee for this: be all thy faults for given.   Tim. 

O spare me sir, I am not fit for death.   Leu. 
I think thou art not; yet trust me, fitter than for life: Yet tell me ere my breath be gone, know'st of any other plots against me?  Tim. 

Of none.   Leu. 
What course wouldst thou have taken when thou hadst killed me?  Tim. 

I would have ta'en your Page, and married her.   Leu. 

What Page?   Tim. 

Your boy there.— Dies.   Urania sounds. Leu. 

Is he fallen mad in death, what does he mean?  
Some good God help me at the worst: how dost thou?  
Let not thy misery vex me, thou shalt have  
What thy poor heart can wish: I am a Prince.  
And I will keep thee in the gayest clothes,  
And the finest things, that ever pretty boy had given him.   Vra. 

I know you well enough,  
faith I am dying, and now you know all too.   Le. 

But stir up thyself; look what a jewel here is,  
See how it glisters: what a pretty show  
Will this make in thy little ear? ha, speak,  
Eat but a bit, and take it.   Vra. 

Do you not know me?   Leu. 
I prithee mind thy health: why that's well said my good boy, smile still.  Vra. 

I shall smile till death an I see you.  
I am Urania your sister-in-law.   Leu. 

How!   Vra. 

I am Urania.   Leu. 

dullness did cease me, now I know thee well;  
Alas why camest thou hither?   Vra. 
faith for love, I would not let you know till I was dying; for you could not love me, my Mother was so nought.  Leu. 

I will love thee, or any thing: what? wilt  
Thou leave me as soon as I know thee?  
Speak one word to me: alas she's past it,  
She will near speak more.  
What noise is that? it is no matter who   Enter Ismenus, with the Lords. 

Comes on me now. What worse than mad are you  
That seek out sorrows? if you love delights  
Be gone from hence.   Isme. 
Sir, for you we come, as Soldiers to revenge the wrongs you have suffered under this naughty Creature: what shall be done with her? say, I am ready.  Leu. 
Leave her to heaven brave x, they shall tell her how she has sinned against 'em, my hand shall never be stained with such base blood: live wicked Mother, that reverent title be your pardon, for I will use no extremity against you, but leave you to heaven.  Bac. 

Hell take you all, if there be a place  
Of torment that exceeds that, get you thither:  
And till the devils have you, may your lives  
Be one continued plague, and such a one,  
That knows no friends nor ending.  
May all ages that shall succeed curse you as I do:  
And if it be possible, I ask it heaven,  
That your base issues may be ever Monsters,  
That must for shame of nature and succession,  
Be drowned like dogs  
Would I had breath to please you.   Leu. 

Would you had love within you, and such  
Grief as might become a Mother: look you there,  
Know you that face, that was Urania:  
These are the fruits of those unhappy Mothers,  
That labour with such horrid births as you do:  
If you can weep, there's cause; poor innocent,  
Your wickedness has killed her: I'll weep for you.   Isme. 

Monstrous woman,  
Mars would weep at this, and yet she cannot.   Leu. 

Here lies your Minion too, slain by my hand,  
I will not say you are the cause: yet certain,  
I know you were too blame, the Gods forgive you.   Isme. 

See, she stands as if she were inventing  
Some new destruction for the world.   Leu. 
Ismenus, thou art welcome yet to my sad company.  Isme. 

I come to make you somewhat sadder sir.   Leu. 

You cannot, I am at the height already.   Isme. 

Your Father's dead.   Leu. 
I thought so, heaven be with him: o woman, woman, weep now or never, thou hast made more sorrows than we have eyes to utter.  Bac. 
Now let heaven fall, I am at the worst of evils, a thing so miserable wretched, that every thing, the last of human comforts hath left me: I will not be so base and cold, to live and wait the mercies of these men I hate: no, 'tis just I die, since Fortune hath left me my step descent attends me: hand, strike thou home, I have soul enough to guide; and let all know, as I stood a Queen, the same I'll fall, and one with me.  She stabs the Prince with a knife. Leu. 

Ho.   Isme. 

How do you sir?   Leu. 
nearer my health, than I think any here, my tongue begins to falter: what is man? or who would be one, when he sees a poor weak woman can in an instant make him none.  Dor. 

She is dead already.   Isme. 
Let her be damned already as she is: post all for surgeons.  Leu. 

Let not a man stir, for I am but dead:  
I have some few words which I would have you heart,  
And am afraid I shall want breath to speak 'em:  
First to you my Lords, You know Ismenus is  
Undoubtedly heir of Licia, I do beseech you all,  
When I am dead to show your duties to him.   Lords. 

We vow to do't.   Leu. 

I thank you.  
Next to you Cousin Ismenus, that shall be the Duke,  
I pray you let the broken Image of Cupid  
Be re-edified, I know all this is done by him.   Isme. 

It shall be so.   Leu. 
Last, I beseech you that my Mother-in-Law may have a burial according to— Dies.  Ism. 

To what sir?   Dor. 

There is a full point.   Ism. 
I will interpret for him; she shall have burial according to her own deserts, with dogs.  Dor. 
I would your Majesty would haste for settling of the people.  Ism. 

I am ready.  
Agenor, go and let the Trumpets sound  
Some mournful thing, whilst we convey the body  
Of this unhappy Prince unto the Court,  
And of that virtuous Virgin to a grave:  
But drag her to a ditch, where let her lie  
Accursed, whilst one man has a memory.   Exeunt. 

Cupid's Speech.  
The time now of my Revenge draws near;  
Nor shall it lessen, as I am a god,  
With all the cries and prayers that have been;  
And those that be to come, though they be infinite,  
In need and number.    
FINIS.