THE opportunity A COMEDY, As it was presented by her Majesty's Servants, at the private House in Drury Lane. Written by JAMES SHIRLEY. Printed for Andrew crook, and are to be sold at the Castle Gate in Dublin. 1640. TO MY TRULY NOBLE, And my ever honoured Friend, Captain Richard Owen. SIR, THis Poem, at my return with you, from another Kingdom (wherein I enjoyed, as your employments would permit, the happiness of your knowledge, and conversation) emergent from the Press, and prepared to seek entertainment abroad, I took boldness thus far to direct to your name and acceptance; promised by my confidence in your love to Poesy, wherein your clear judgement and excellent abilities would at first have made me less adventurous. Be pleased till time mature a worthy satisfaction to your favours, to smile upon this tender of my gratitude, and while your services call you hence to enlarge your honour, by making your faith and valour more exemplary against a rebellious enemy, let me preserve a peace at home, in the contemplation of your friendship, and be happy to profess myself Your humble Servant and Honoror, IA. SHIRLEY. The Actors Names. Aurelio. Pisauro. Pimponio. Lucio. Pietro. Julio. Mercutio. Duchess and Ladies. Ferrara. Ursini. Cornelia. Melinda. Laura. Borgia. Ascanio a Boy. Asca. Grutty. THE opportunity. Act 1. Scene 1. Enter Aurelio, Pisauro, and Pimponio. Aur. EXpect me an hour hence, my friend and I Will walk and see the City, make it your Care to get Supper ready. Pim. If I do not I know who's like to fare the worse. Au. And be not Drunk Sirrah at our return. Pim. Yes I do use To be drunk before you often. Exit. Au. About your business: And how dost like the town, and situation. Pis. Trouble me not to answer such dull questions, I see ne'er a handsome girl yet, not a piece Of a bonaroba; and the Duchess hold But the complexion of those we ha' seen, I won't be corrupted with the palace To be her bedfellow. Au. You'll change opinion; Perhaps we ha' seen none but the rubbish, yet There may be beauty's signior will tempt Your most fastidious appetite, I fear I shall have much ado to stave thee from 'em, Pis. To quit that fear let's leave the City instantly; The meal won't digest women, I eat in't. Not stave me from 'em? We are for the wars; This town will turn my blood, I won't give A Julio for my courage in twelve hours, Unless they tie their women up. Au. Thou hast, A mind to show thou canst be satire, patience But till tomorrow and we'll hence. Enter Lucio. Luc. Sir, let my heart present your welcome home, Y'ave been too long a stranger, I am happy To embrace you again. Au. Me, meaning me, d'ee know me? Luc. I hope you are not jealous of my friendship, I thought our familiarity before The sad misfortune came that made you banish yourself from Urbin had possessed you throughly, How firm I dare be to you. Pis. Do you know him? Au. Dost thou know him? I ne'er saw his eyes before To my best memory, are you not mistaken. Lu. Perhaps in your affection which no art Hath ever made me guilty to deserve, I never did betray my friend to make you Affect these clouds, but be it so. Au. There is But one half hour added to our ages Since first we saw the City. Lu. In good time. I will be bold to acquaint some bawd else In whom you have more faith. Exit. Au. What Riddle's this. Pis. Is not the Gentleman o'th' to sides on's wits? What did he call you. Au. Nay I know not, he Said we had been familiar, in his dream sure, For waking I ne'er saw him. Pis. You should have asked his name. Au. To what purpose prithee. Enter Pietro. Why does that Gentleman stare upon us so. Pie. Are you returned, this is confidence You may repent. Au. Save you signior. Pie. And you too. Pis. D'ee mean both one? Pie. One has some need, you're welcome Signior to Urbin. Au. Thank you, what's your name I pray. Pie. If you ha' forgot mine, I remember Borgia. A friend of yours, desires but to renew Acquaintance wi'ye. Au. What friend. Pie. You will hear more. Pis. jigs, shall I after him and knock Him o'er the pate. Au. For what. Pis. For looking on's So scurvily. Au. That may be dangerous, Did he not name Borgia. Pis. But whether He meant himself or you I understand not. Au. He might as well ha' called me Bethlem Gabor; Let's walk on still. Enter Julio. Iu. Ha Borgia, 'tis he, my noble friend returned, Welcome, a thousand welcomes in thy bosom; Why do you wear this strangeness in your face, Can a few years render me lost to Borgia. Au. Sure he does call me Borgia. Iu. Thou wert Unkind in thy departure, with what devotion Could I have been a partner in thy travel And have unequal fortune, being absent Why was not I summoned to wait upon thee In any part o'th' world, but again welcome, When arrived ye. Au. I am very likesome body, They all mistake me thus, we ha' seen no friends since. Iu. Is this Gentleman. Au. One dear in my acquaintance. Iu. I am your servant, thy unexpected sight Will glad Mercutio's heart, your noble father Who hath long mourned your absence. Pis. Good old man, He will rejoice to see him here no doubt on't. Au. Remember my father's name. Iu. You have lost an Uncle, but all his estate Your Father is possessed of. Au. Dead! Iu. His age Was fit for heaven, his wealth is added to Your fathers to make yours the greater fortune. Pis. Take it upon you. Au. Pardon noble friend, I was persuaded time and absence had Wrought such a change upon my face, that no man Would know me again, but though I may to some Appear a stranger, I must stand discovered To a friend's penetrating eye, again Possessed your faithful servant, what's my name. Iu. Dear Borgia. Pis. Borgia I must remember you. Iu. Shall I wait on you to your father Sir. Au. What were I best to do. Iu. Your sisters grown a gallant gentlewoman, The only beauty of Urbin, and waits on The Duchess, her soft lips will seal your welcome. Pis. A handsome gentlewoman, go. Au. He does but jest, they are all witches here. Pis. No more jeers. Go or be lame for ever. Au. Is she grown Worthy that hour you express, and has The Duchess taken her to grace. Iu. 'tis more than whispered, The favourite loves her. Au. Who. Iu. He that was cause Of your remove Ursini. Au. Cry you mercy, I know him well enough; but does he love her? Iu. 'tis rumoured so i'th' court. Pis. You will be tripping, Your own heels up. Au. I hope my sister's honest. Iu. Who Cornelia. Au. Remember that name too. Pis. Let me alone To remember her, Cornelia for more Security, I'll put her in my table book. Iu. There is no Lady in the preserves A clearer fame, as modest as she's fair, And so ingenious. Pis. I would excuse Her modesty, but she may be converted In time; though sturdy Oak we know, and so forth Enter Mercutio, Lucio Au. You speak a welcome Character. Iu. Your father It seems his willing ear hath catched the news Of your arrive. Pis. Kneel down. Au. See if he first knows me, 'tis a wise father now knows his own child. Mer. My dearest Borgia, comfort of my age. My joy of soul, a father's prayers and blessing Make thee a happy man, my eyes must speak Part of my joy in tears, welcome from Naples. Au. Your pardon Sir That thus I steal upon you, I would hope My sister— Pi. Cornelia. Au. Cornelia is in health. Mer. And will be a glad soul to embrace her brother Au. Your pardon Sir that I seemed strange to you. Iu. 'Tis recompense now that you please to own me. Mer. julio an honest gentleman, and one That loves us Borgia. Au. I hear my Uncle Has left us— Pi. A good estate, there's the less cause To mourn for him. Au. We must all tread that path, Here is a friend of mine to whose trust and favour I have been much engaged. Mer. Sir what I want In language, I'll supply with other welcome, Please you to honour my poor wife. Pis: The service Of my unworthy life is yours, command it, I would you had another handsome daughter. Mer. I presume you were presented a glad object To Lucio, your affections grew from children. Au. To Lucio we carry but one heart. Pis. Do not forget his name now. Mer. But my son We dwell to long thus public, let us perfect Enter Pietro. Our ceremony at home, Pietro One of the favourites creatures. Pis. 'tis the Duchess, Command Mercutio you wait upon her Presently at Court, and bring young Borgia Along we to expect her grace's pleasure. Exit. Mer. We must obey. Au. What makes your countenance change Sir. Mer. My fears poor Borgia for thee. Au. For me. Pis. how's that? his fears? Mer. While my aged arms are in, A loving contention to embrace thee, I wish thee from hence this ground betrayed thee, Embark again, the Seas have used thee kindly, Trust them again, or any land but this: This will undo us both, the joy of seeing thee Made me forget thy danger. Au. Danger Sir, What have I done, to call these fears upon you? Pis. Take heed, be wise, I know not what to think on't Mer. What hast done sayst, nothing to dishonour thee, Thou killed'st him fairly. Pis. Killed I think; you were best Be Aurelio again, and leave your sister But I'll fish out the circumstance, walk melancholy. Au. Prithee do. Pis. Although your son has pleased To call me friend, I find he has reserved Something he would not credit to my bosom; I have observed his trouble, but unwilling By moving questions to renew his sufferings: If my particular knowledge of his fate May be no prejudice, though it be without My verge to serve him, I can willingly Share in their grief that love him. Mer. You speak nobly, 'twas his misfortune Sir provoked to kill A Gentleman, brother to Ursini, who Was favourite to the Duke deceased, and now Graced by the Duchess, by whose power he may Command him dead, these summons I suspect; But take my counsel Borgia, and deceive His expectation of revenge, once more He bids thee fly; would slay thee in his heart, Let me run their displeasure. Au. Not for me Sir, I am resolved, 'tis better die at home, Then waste my life an exile, I'll to Court w'ye. Pis. You're not mad. Au. Thou art a fool, cannot I cast Borgia's skin off when I please, I must See my fair sister at a minute's warning, Thou art evidence for me; father I wait you, My sisters there you say, do not doubt me; At worst, I'll have a trick to keep my head on: Come friend and Gentlemen. Iu. We attend. Exit. Enter Duchess, Ursini, Cornelia, Melinda, Laura. Du. You have prevailed Ursini: yet we thought Of all men living you would least have been A suitor for his pardon, but 'tis signed He owes you for his life. Vrs. Your mercy rather, I have considered madam I did lose A brother, whose repair I shall not find Now in another's blood, the Gentleman Hath suffered, though not what the Laws determine, Many years' penance, so severe, perhaps That he is come by offering himself now A sacrifice to your justice, to prevent A death more killing, still to live a stranger To his own friends and country. Du. If your charity Extend so far, the rest we have dispensed with, He is returned for certain? he is either Weary of life, or master of a confidence That might have been his ruin. Vrs. This will make Your art of mercy shine the brighter Madam. Du. It will, but let me ask you good my Lord, Does this proceed out of a clear forgiveness: Time I allow may qualify the thought Of our revenge, and something else of pity May so take off the roughness of our soul That we may have a noble charity To our enemy, but has your end no mixture Of something else, that may advance a hope To satisfy desire some other way? No turn to profit or delight? be plain; For I must know your breast. Vrs. You shall see through me, I dare not wear a thought less than transparent, I love his sister Madam, fair Cornelia With those intents become me, in that flame I sacrifice all thoughts that wound her brother And wish no happier satisfaction, And by that charm of her consent to love My brother is redevivd in Borgia. Dut. You're brief, yet plain; how point Cornelia's Affections. Vrs. I have wooed her but in compliment, And though there may be sons to admit My services, I find she is all obedience To her father, whom the apprehension Of his son's fortune may have indisposed To a present reconcilement. Dut. This one act Will make him kind, and form him to your wishes. Vrs. If they might have the happiness to be Propounded by your highness to Mercutio, I prophesy success, pardon great Madam, If after all your princely favours I Beg this with many blushes, love is graced By dwelling on your breath. Dut. Ursini since The Duke died you have found no loss in out Esteem, to his ashes I have paid that duty To grace whom he affected, and be confident We shall not deny this, is he not come yet? Urs. He will attend your grace— who wait. Enter Pietro. Pis. Signior Mercutio Expects your grace's pleasure, with him his son Borgia Cor. My brother. Dut. Though we pardon him We must put on a brow of some displeasure And chide his fault, he may be encouraged else To a second insolence. Urs. Gently I beseech you, There may be a punishment within your eye To kill him, and so make the benefit Is meant him, of no virtue, or to himself, Or my design. Dut. How is the name of gentleman Dishonoured by such desperate undertakings; That more than guilty of humane blood, do kill Even Charity. Enter Mercutio, Borgia, Pisauro. Urs. theyare admitted. Dut. Is that he? We sent for you Mercutio to tell you How much you owe to good Ursini's love, At whose earnest solicit we have signed Young Borgias pardon, if you examine well; You will have cause to place him in the first Rank of your friends. Mer. Shall I believe my eyes, My understanding? how is Mercutio blessed? Look boy the pardon, heaven reward thy charities; My Lord for saving one, command the lives Of all our family, thou soul of honour; Look Borgia. Pis. What d'ye mean Kneel to the Duchess and acknowledge. Bor. What. Pis. A pardon for your life. Bor. I am lost here Pisauro, an excellent creature. Pis. You'll spoil all, she's yet your sister, I do like her too; Kneel for your pardon, and you may choose your gallows In time, wood I were hanged on no worse piece Of timber, how nimbly would I climb the Ladder, ha' you no sense? humble your knees to thank Her highness and that gentleman. Du. Why does That fellow kneel Ursini. Urs. 'Tis Signior Borgia, His heart is full of thanks. Du. I look not for 'em, What do I feel? command him rise. Urs. Dear Madam. Look calm upon him. Pis. she'll reverse the pardon. Cor. Are you my brother Sir? Bo. As sure as you are my sister; do you doubt me? Cor. How now Cornelia, pray excuse me brother, My joy to see you safe doth half transport me. Du. Mercutio. Pis. I am converted now, And do believe there are some handsome women; Young Gentleman, not too much, too much at once, Remember you're her brother, he is taken. Mer. Your grace is pleased to enlarge my happiness; My daughter is much honoured, but I must Beseech your Lordship to allow we may In such a cause as this, inquire her judgement, And since byth' bounty of your highness, I Have a son now, whose joy may be concerned in't; I would not willingly conclude her marriage Without his voice too. Urs. I am confident To incline his favour, since she has declared Herself no enemy. Du. Cornelia. Urs. Sir I have a suit to you. Bo. You have deserved My life, which ought to waste itself in service. Urs. I am an honourer of your fair sister, It rests in you to perfect my ambition. And make her mine. Bo. How do you mean my Lord. Pis. Now he's put too't, she is Ursini's mistress. As he is Borgia, he can have no Pretence to oppose him, if he discover And be Aurelio again, he destroys all Hope for himself, for I perceive he's taken with her, I know by the motion of his nose, which pants Like the Bellows of an Organ. Urs. Sir your father's Voice speaks in yours, you now command my destiny If you will make me happy. Bo. Noble Sir, I am sorry where such infinite merits plead I have no power to serve your noble wishes, And keep the honour of a gentleman. Urs. Your family I take it can receive No stain by my alliance. Bo. 'Twere a blessing. Pis. How will he come off? Bo. Mistake not I beseech you, I have already engaged myself to a Gentleman Of a noble house in Milan, one Aurelio Andreozzi. Pis. That's himself. Bo. Who on the fight of Her picture which I gave him, courted me To woo the substance for him, promising To follow me in person, being one To whom I had many obligations In the Milan Court, I pawned the credit Of a gentleman, to assist his fair desires, If in few days he come to Urbin; but I am confident his young affections Which had no other life but what a dead Representation could infuse, will soon Vanish again, and leave me to be serviceable In what you will command me, and be sure I will not rack your patience too much length; If in few days he appear not, I will think My promise disobliged, and direct all My abilities to make your wishes prosper: It will become my gratitude. Urs. You speak nobly. Bo. The pleasures of the Court will so abate His thoughts this way, that I presume your Lordship Will soon be master of that amorous province You aim at, and much honour your poor servant. Urs. Let this confirm, I am yours. Pis. So so, this was indifferently well carried, I was jealous Of a more lame come off. Urs. Add this one To your other princely favours Madam, and Admit this gentleman to kiss your hand. Dut. Without much suit my heart would have conveyed That to my lip, a very handsome gentleman. Cor. What said the Duchess? do not her eyes fix Upon my brother? how now Cornelia, I am his sister; yet I had No acquaintance with this turbulent passions When I last saw him. Mer. What does her highness mean, She speaks to Ursini, but her eye directs Some language this way, Borgia dost observe? Bo. And wonder, but I see nothing in her eyes To be afraid of. Pis. If the Duchess should be in love with him Here were a purchase, I do verily Believe here will be an end of all our wars, If he have but the grace to march upon This service and charge home: smiles, smiles upon him; Well Aurelio Andreozzi, 'tis very possible You may meet with your match if he mount her, I'll bring a Ladder to his sister's fort And then the town's our own, she calls him to her. Mer. Cornelia, canst thou interpret this? Cor. Her grace is very pleasant, good good heart been patient. Pis. She plays with him, good, better, ay, is your spirit up my nimble Duchess? Would I had the conjuring of it down, Ursini Looks like a whelp had lost his tail already. Urs. I was jealous she would chide and frown upon him, prayed her be gentle, and look calm, Is't come To this? Du. Ursini, I have thought how to supply That place of Secretary that is vacant, see That Borgia be sworn, we apprehend His fitness. Vrs. Madam. Du. I hope this will please you Ursini, we can grace whom you present; He is more gentleman than to forget How for your sake we honour him; I shall Betray too much of women, Borgia Attend us; come Cornelia, Ursini, Mercutio, make the Court not so much stranger. Exeunt. Bo. I'll follow: what dost think of this Pisauro. Pis. I think the duchess loves thee, and make use on't, Lose no applications, that't her Secretary, A degree to more inward endearments, If she do love thee, and— Bo. What prithee? Pis. she knows best What appetite she has, let men counsel thee, Be not modest, we are made. Bor. What? Pis. Thy father a Count, thou a Duke, Ursini A Coxcomb, I a fine gentleman, and one That would be glad of the worst of your New female acquaintances. Bo. There are no faces here. Pis. Be not you a Tyrant, I'll do penance In a white sheet with thy sister for't. Exeunt. Actus Secundus. Enter Pimponio. Pim. NO Signior Aurelio come yet? No master to be heard on, he is a fine Gentleman to use his Squire o' this fashion; where should he be, he commanded me not to be drunk, he is drunk; and drunk and dead drunk, he would have had the grace to reel home to his lodging before this time of night else: let me see, what if the flesh have led him a to side? He is fall'n into some brake, some wench has tied him by the legs, and nothing else can excuse him to me; yet now I think on't, he does forget Pimponio, he was not wont to be his own purveyor, my art for the choice of his pullen, has been allowed if he do get and so forth an excuse for Physic, and come home foundered, the disease was none of my choosing, it came not through my office; stay, what if my Signior be dead? umph? dead? my heart misgives, they may be killed, my master has the spirit of fighting in him, and his companion is the Devil at it, an aglet hole or two in their hearts, and in a strange place, my Signiors, are never missed, 'tis so, if he be dead— bring forth the portmanteau. Enter Ascanio, a Boy. Ase. Sir? Pim. Bring forth my portmanteau my diminutive knave, and tell thy father I would speak with him, he is dead, he would not have trusted me so long with his money else, now will I make myself his heir, defy the world and Aurelio's Ghost; but first of all I must outface mine host, so let me examine; very good linings, bag and baggage, you are mine own, Enter Asca. Thy father call him hither. As. He is coming Sir, 'tis very late. Pim. Never too late to tell money, fetch me a brace of gennets I will mount 'em, a Covey of Courtesans; stay Pimponio, be not mad before thy time, who shall I say I am? a Prince at least, I have it; Enter Grutty. Here comes mine Host. Gr. What would this fellow have, no news of your master? Pim. Speak that word no more on thy allegiance, here go to bed and rise with a clean shirt. Gr. This is gold, what does the fellow mean? Pim. No fellows neither, 'tis time to show myself, where is thy boy? As. Here Signior. Pim. Kneel down and ask me blessing. As. This does look a blessing, shall I ask another? Pim. Ask any thing but what I am. As. You are— Pim. Stay there, 'tis dangerous to pronounce me yet, I will be still disguised, my men are absent. As. Your men. Pim. Thou art wise, thine ear, I am a Prince. Gr. How Signior. Pim. The reason of my shape thou shalt know hereafter, thus jove has been disguised. As. Is not your name Pimponio? Pim. It was my pleasure they should call me so, I have not found 'em trusty; How fares the Duchess? As. What do I hear? Pim. This boy shall wait on me, I'll have ye all. Gr. Whether? Pim. What Country shall I choose? to be a Prince of Italy is too well known, Spain stands convenient, and far enough, where I have been too, I'll have you all to Spain. As. What to do Signior? Pim. For your preferments, when thou hast got a chapman for this tub thou liv'st in, let me know't. Gr. Boy this a Spanish Prince. As. A Prince of Oranges, he a Spanish Prince? Pim. They wonot travel thither to disprove me, to tell the truth, I suspect my two Grooms have betrayed me; I come hither to be a suitor to your Duchess. As. In these clothes? Pim. You do not know my plot, these Gentlemen my servants should cunningly have preferred me to be the Duchess Fool. Gr. Her Fool? 'tis very likely. Pim. But for a time, there's mystery in that By this means I resolved to try her nature And disposition ere I married her, For I can have at this present four Kings daughters, the eldest of 'em is but seven years old, which shows the parents dote upon me, and would make sure of me betimes. Gr. I do believe your grace. Pim. Grace, umph, thou must be advanced, let me see, what office, oh, thou shalt have a place at my return in the Galleys, dost hear, a yerking preferment. As. And what shall I be? Pim. Thou shalt be— a Picaro, in your language a Page, my chief Picaro; by degrees you may send for all your generation, I will see them mounted. Enter Pisauro. Pis. Where's Pimponio. Pim. A pox Pimp you, they are alive again, now am I a dead man. Pis. There is a certain movable eccliped a portmanteau. Pim. Would your tongue had been clipped. Pis. Wherein there are some golden friends of ours. Pim. All your friends are well. Pis. Let me see their complexions, where are they? look for the Signior your master a month hence? As. His master, d'ye observe? Pim. Does he not carry it handsomely, he knows not I have discovered myself to you. As. With your pardon Sir, is not this Signior a Prince disguised? Pis. A Prince of Puppets, who Pimponio? As. And you one of his servants, to whom with Your other fellow called Signior Aurelio, His person stands discovered, he came hither To court our Duchess, he has promised us At his return to Spain to make us Grandees. Pis. Has he betrayed himself, nay then my duty If please your excellence. Pim. Away, away. Pis. A Prince cannot be hid tho under mountains, But my dear Prince, the bags must go with me While you keep state i'th' Inn. Pim. Who shall maintain. Pis. If I did think thou wouldst carry it handsomely— Well, I'll excuse thee to thy master, here When thou hast domineered away this bag Thou mayst hear more; keep thine own counsel, and Thy master sha'not own thee, if thou hast Any fagary, drink, and indulge thy Genius; I'll see thee again before thy reign be out, No words but be a prince, and scorn to know us And so I take leave of your excellence. Pim. I sha'not know myself, am not I a Prince Indeed, that have been long concealed? this is a bag And full of golden friends, umph, however I will Spend it like an Emperor, these are not robes Fit for a Prince I take it, Grutti, boy I entertain you both my Groom and Page, and Say unto you, Snakes go cast your coats, Here's earnest for new skins, when things are ripe We will to Court. Gr. What thinks your grace of going to bed Pim. I am too sober, let the whole house be drunk first, 'twill please us well to see the servants gambol, we purpose To be drunk ourselves in state too: Let me have fifty strumpets. Gr. fifty trumpets. Pim. Strumpets I say, they'll make the greater noise. As. Your grace will be a Hercules. Pim. I will, and thou shalt be Captain of the Pigmies under me, this room's too narrow, beat down the walls on both sides, advance your lights and call the Country in, if there be a tailor amongst 'em he shall first take measure of my highness, for I must not longer walk in Quirpo. Both. We attend your excellence. Exeunt. Enter Julio and Lucio, Lu. I'm lost i'th' wonder julio. Iu. A strange turn From that could temper we imagined In her Highness. Lu. I have heard of charms and philters. Iu. If travel have these glorious effects I'll abroad too. Lu. He has a handsome person. Iu. And discourses grant it. Lu. Is master of a noble soul. Iu. Soul, nay let that alone, Ladies do not look After the soul so much, the body will serve their Turn, so it be nimble, and at their devotion, If you observe, he is graced by all the Ladies As if he were their general minion, I do not like his sister's eyes upon him, They whirl too much and seemed to shoot an envy Upon the Duchess favours. Lu. I am confident Thou hast no murmur in thy thoughts against him. Iu. I but express my wonder, In that I think the whole Court had a share: He knows I love him, 'twill become his fear How to secure Ursini. Lu: He preferred him First to her highness. Iu. Not with expectation To be supplanted, I make question If the humour hold, whether she may not marry him, That's a round higher than her favourite: Had hope to climb. Lu. Although I honour Borgia And wish him heartily advanced, I would not Kneel to him, my voice is for Ferrara He is a Prince, I would not for my state This shod break off his treaty. Iu. Thy Ambassador To his master, he is scarce minded. Lu. Come she cannot, Fall so low, the passion is too violent Enter Ursini, and Ferrara. To last— who are these? Iu. The Ambassador and Ursini, what's the matter? I fear some discontent. Urs. My Lord let me Prevail so far, I hope you imagine I Am firm to you, I have more cause to be Impatient, my whole strength at Court's concerned, But have more noble thoughts then to suspect You can be slighted, think 'tis but a dream In justice to your cause, and royal master Put on no face of discontent, return And see how things will close Fer. 'Tis an affront 'bove satisfaction, but the disgrace Reflects beyond my person. Urs. Had she studied Honours to his ambition, it had Not wronged her prudence, to have shown you more Respect. Fer. But I was not considerable; The young Gentleman had taken up her eyes, Her tongue, her feet, her understanding too, I might have withered in my seat, no beam, No discourse this way, but that once she was pleased To ask me how I liked the gallants dancing, I'll not disturb her revels. Urs. Yet my Lord Have so much fortitude, 'twill be a means If you return, to make her find her error To your person, were she not my Princess I should profess myself ashamed, out come Let me beseech you to go back, leave not The presence so, for your own honour Sir Observe a little more, I hope you sha'not Repent my counsel. Fer. I would ye would excuse me, I shall but vex my eyes. Urs. Expect a change. Fer. You have power with me my Lord. Urs. You honour me. Exit. Ju. What will become oh this, what think you now? They do resent it, and for aught I hear Have little hope to mend it. Lu. Can she be In love so soon, well Borgia, if this Hold, I'll applaud thy fate. Iu. For after this Allowance, he'll be Duke of Urbin tomorrow, Give thee joy bully, let me see if he Turn Prince, 'tis best for us turn beggars. Lu. beggars? Iu. Court beggars, he'll deny us nothing, Now for some witty knave to find out suits, I must keep some in pension for that purpose, They are profitable vermin, Enter Pisauro. His companion. Pis. Save you Gentlemen, what d'ye mean? Why stand ye bare? Lu. In being Borgias friend It will become us. Iu. He knows no title yet, But chief secretary to her highness, what honours Are in her breast laid▪ up for him, we know not He has a mounting fate, and in his we Pronounce you happy. Pis. We shall all be Princes In time; but Gentlemen let's be more familiar We think so well of things, does he preserve The Duchess smile, or does she use to make At some time o' the Moon sport with her subjects. Iu. You are wide all the heaven Sir, had you come A little sooner you had heard discourse. Enter Borgia. To clear your doubt, he's here himself. Bo. Pisauro, What will become on's, 'tis as thou sayst? Pis. What prithee? Bo. The Duchess is mad. Pis. How! Bor. Why she is certainly in love, shalt in and see How I am used, and yet I now come forth To recover breath, I ha' danced myself to a jelly, The Ladies ha' no mercy; but the Duchess Pis. What prithee. Bo. Is as I told thee mad, I prithee counsel me Although her grace be pleased to show me favours 'Twere boldness to believe, and thank her. Pis. How? I hope thou art not mad. Bo. I know not whether The fit will last, I may hold some proportion With Cornelia, my supposed sister, she Poor wretch does cast such speaking eyes upon me As she were jealous of the Duchess too, And wrings me by the hand when I dance with her. Enter Pietro. Pie. The Duchess Sir calls for you. Bo. I attend; What were I best to do? Pis. Dost make a question Lose not the fortune that's presented in The Duchess love, thy stars ordained thee for her; I'll make a shift with Cornelia, look high And prosper, when thouart a Duke, I say no more Bo. What shall's do with Pimponio? that fool May betray all. Pis. He is a Prince before you I ha' made him sure, and swollen him into a pride, He shall not know you, but of that hereafter, Away and please the Duchess. Enter Duchess, Ladies, Ferrara, Ursini. Bo. Your our grace's pardon? Du. 'Tis late, good night my Lord Ambassador. Exit. Fer. 'Tis well I am bid good-night, yet all my hopes Vanish in mists, what think you now x? Urs. I know not what to think, let me wait on you To your lodgings. Fer. They join toth' Court. Urs. 'Tis the less service. Fer. Tomorrow morning if I may be honoured With your presence, I will impart a secret to you, And be happy in your Counsel. Urs. I obey Any commands. Fer. For this time give me pardon, goodnight my Lord. Ex. Urs. A happy night to your Lordship, After so many years spent in the Court, I am to learn the trick on't, these are actions 'gainst my first rules, I am ignorant▪ Of this new Court philosophy, what should The Duchess mean, so prodigal of her graces To one she scarce remembers, with such open Neglect to th' Duke's 'Ambassador? I was careful She would not use him kindly enough, wert not Affection to his sister, lies up my Revenge, I'd drop it on his heart, but I Must work with art, and by a Counter magic Dissolve his spell, or form him to my purpose. Enter Laura and Melanda. You have been waiting on the Duchess Ladies? Lau. She dismissed us. Urs. With what circumstance? Is she still pleasant? Mel. Strangely altered Since young Borgia took his leave and melancholy: Well, I suspect— Vrs. What Madam? Mel. she'll scarce sleep tonight, for dreaming o'th' Gentleman. Vrs. He is gone then? Lau. Yes, we saw his departure my Lord, He kissed us both, but we put forward sirst, He is the handsom'st Gentleman; d'ee think He wears his own hair? Mil. I was about To ask him once, but thought he was modest And would ha' blushed, I would I had his picture. Urs. His substance Madam, but take heed, the duchess Must have no rival, how d'ee affect his talk? Lau. That was not my part to observe, we did divide Our provinces, each Lady took a member To examine, when we have conferred our notes I'll tell ye what the body of Ladies think on him. Mel. Nay we'll take him a pieces ere we ha' done. Urs. And who shall set him together again? my Ladies I wait on you. Lau. Your Lordship will too much honour us. Urs. 'Tis the way to my own lodging. Mel. If it were not the way my Lord, your Lordship Could not be destitute of a lodging at Court. Urs. Your Charity would relieve me, use my service. Exit. Enter Ferrara and Pietro with a light. Fer. There is no such affliction to the soul As that which should preserve it, love, a passion That with consent betrays our understanding, And leaves man but a heap of flame and ruins; I was safe till I had seen her, busy fame Took but possession of my ear, my own Rashness and vanity engaged my person To see what was commended, and I suffer for't, Leave me. Pie. 'tis dark my Lord. Fer. Thou liest, 'tis light And by these fires I see too much, away, I shall soon reach my lodgings, night and I Shall agree well together, if my stay Be long, remember that you left me under The palace windows, leave to be officious And obey me— till this night she gave me fair Exit. Respect, and seemed to allow the loving treaty, I was dull not to uncloud me all this while The knowledge of my person had engaged her Beside my act of love, and so much confidence Past all retreat, and yet she is a woman, Whose nature is unsteady as the waves, Upon which foolish man runs desperate To me a ruin. Enter Borgia. Bor. Fortune thou smil'st too much, I shall suspect Thy giddiness, take eyes to thee and see To what a flattering height thou hast exalted A credulous man. Fer. What voice is that, it had A sound of melancholy, darkness secure me. Bor. But why make I ridiculous application To fortune? love is only active here; The tyrant love, more blind than chance, I am Full of distraction, there's a labyrinth Within, and more I tread, the more I am lost Betwixt the Duchess and Cornelia My soul divides, I must not be a fool, And for the fable of amorous love Leave state that courts me with a glorious title, And yet Cornelia is fury, and looks Withal the charms of love upon her brow, What will she do when she believes I am No brother? Fer. 'tis the new ague Borgia That shakes the court, how confidently he talks To himself, a light strikes from the Duchess window And music; I'll observe, the gallant may Have some appointment. Song. Cornelia above. Bo. Alas poor love-sick Lady, what if I Attempted farther, the excuse will fall More easy on a stranger, Lady, hist. Cor. who's that? Bo. One that does wish the happiness To see your face, you have blessed my ears already. Cor. What are you? Bo. My name's Borgia, if you be A fair one of the court, time is not old Since I was a guest there. Cor. 'Tis he, I'll not lose This opportunity, Sir your boldness Speaks you a stranger, and in part excuses You are alone. Bo. I am. Cor. I expect not Upon so small acquaintance you should know My voice again, I am the Duchess Sir. Bo. Your grace's humble creature, may I hope You'll pardon this attempt. Cor. Upon condition You will forget the freedom of our nature And not grow insolent upon our favours, We were late pleased to show you, 'twas not love But mirth, we meant our court the wantonness Of revelling nights, which we upon retirements Know how to check and punish too in men, That dare licentiously apply to our Dishonour: if your service in that place Of secretary we have named you for Be diligent and faithful, we repent not That choice, but on your life feed no ambition Higher, it will be a degree next treason To us, and the honour of Ferrara's Duke, With whom because you are our secretary We let you know our thoughts are fixed to marry, Fer. What blessing hath my ear took in? she is Resolved to my desires. Cor. Are you gone Sit? Sleep wisely if you can, we shall expect Your attendance in the morning, but no thought On forfeit of your life beyond what's duty. Fer. I have enough tomorrow I resolve To be myself, and with a state becoming Ferrara's Duke, challenge this happiness, Forgive dear Princess I suspected thee. Exit. Enter Duchess above. Cor. The Duchess she'll spoil all. Dut. I heard your voice more loud than usual, Whom spoke you to? Cor. here's nobody and please your grace. Dut. You hold some dialogue at the window then, I'll know. Cor. My brother Borgia Madam. Dut. Borgia, leave us. Cor. I hope he's gone. Bo. I must confess you are my Princess Madam, To whose least command I owe my blood and fortune. Dut. He speaks to me, how does he know I am here? Bo. And do not think I can be lost so much In duty to interpret there was any thing In me, that could deserve more than your pastime; And let me fall and die beneath your anger, When I transgress so far, as to forget My humble fate which only can be blessed With my obedience to you, I had not One saucy application of your favours, My heart shall bleed to death ere it shall find One thought of so much impudence. Dut. how's this? Since Cornelia has usurped my name And frighted him, what should make her officious He is her brother, I must hear no more Of this— you are mistaken all this while, I am Cornelia your sister. Bo. Is the Duchess gone? Dut. You well distinguish voices, yet she's gone. Bo. My joy of soul, dearest Cornelia. 'tis she that I must trust to. Du. is't e'en so? Dear brother, leaving all your studied compliments I do not like your dilatory reasons To Ursini, I may hear you as a brother, But must not trouble you to choose my husband; It is the Duchess pleasure, I should marry Ursini, an advancement more than I Can hope, from your election of a stranger And set your heart at rest, howe'er I seemed Inclining, destiny is not more fixed, Than the affection I owe Ursini, Him I resolve to marry, and before The next day's light is wasted. Bo. I am undone A 'both sides, hear me yet but speak. Dut. What would you say brother? Bo. I am not thy brother. Dut. How, not Borgia. Bo. Not Borgia, the whole town's mistaken My name is Aurelio Andreozzi, I was borne in Milan, with my friend designed To see some service in the German wars; At the first sight I must confess I loved thee: To enjoy thy conversation more freely, I was content to seem what men would call me Dut. You tell me wonders. Bo. I can give thee proof, But to no purpose now, and tell thee too Enough to make thee think I may be worthy, But since 'tis so, I am glad you ha' discovered Your resolution so soon, good night te'e, I'll make no noise tomorrow, when I take My journey. Dut. Stay, he must not be foe lost, This is a strange discovery, if you can Bring testimony that you are not Borgia, You shall not Sir repent your coming hither, Nor yet despair of any noble ways That may reward your good opinion, 'tis late; a lover's dream charm all your senses, And waking find your wishes, if you please Until I ask a further satisfaction, Be still concealed. Exit. Bo. There may be hope, although My first love I confess reflect on this, The Duchess yet, had not been much amiss, Exit. Actus Tertius. Enter Grutti and Ascanio. Gr. WHy, I shall hardly take thee for my own natural child. As. Let me alone with my son, if I do not fit him, let me never find the way into my own breeches again, I would be loath to die in a wrong case and be mistaken in another world; is the music ready, and the wine father? can the fellows do their dance handsomely, in stead of a mask to entertain his highness, I am sorry my legs are out of tune, I have a great mind to be capering. Gr. My own wit, my own natural wit to a hair. As. Not too much hair of your own, and wit together, father, 'tis not the fashion:de' hear, whatsoever I say, be you drunk time enough to justify it, the bills shall be discharged without scrupulous examination, souse in wine and give him Sea room, if his head leak we will pump his breeches, he shall not sink with all his ballast I warrant him. Gr. A witty crack, and my own boy still. As. Your own boy? take heed what you say, lest you be driven to justify it, you have no mind to wake my mother from her grave, 'tis enough I ask you blessing, I do long to be metamorphosed, and pursue his princely humour out of breath— Music, 'tis well, his grace is upon entrance. Gr. Dispatch boy. As. I know my cue to enter. Exit. Enter Pimponio, like a Spanish Don, and Servants. Pim. And how, and how do things become? We were in clouds but now. Gr. Your highness is broken out. Pim. Broken out, where? Gr. Out of the clouds and please you. Pim. There is no infidel among you then, You all believe I am a Prince, d'ye hear, At all adventures let it go no further, There are no traitors I hope amongst ye▪ Gr. traitors, we will cut off any man's neck that dares but think so. Pim. Do and I will justify it, hang necks among friends, although I am pleased to reveal the majesty of my person to you, it is not fit every one should know so much, you are strangers, and therefore I dare trust you, but the Duchess must not hear on't upon your lives; she and I must be better acquainted when I see my time; I'll tell you, the toy may take me i'th' head to look like a fool again, it may, greatness is given to humours, and giddiness will run in a blood, if it do, do not know me. Gr. For what? Pim. For any other than I seem. Gr. Not a fool. Pim. Thou art an ass, a Prince may play the fool within his own dominions, or any other; provided they be of his own allies and confederates: I know where I am, but we are not merry reach me a chair and a bottle of wine, every one take his charge. Gr. Will not your highness have the dance first? Pim. They will dance the better when they are three quarters drunk. 1. Ser. We do not observe men of your nation to be so jovial. Pim. Not subjects I grant you that, but we Sound a health .have privilege music, and give fire at once— so, but methinks it were necessary there were some difference in our drinkings; all are not Princes, reach me a bigger bottle, Sound a health .I will preserve my state, this is a Princely draught— We drink alone .so— Why have we not a Concubine? 2. Ser. Brave Prince, with what a majesty he drinks. Pim. Now let 'em frisk the dance you have prepared, I am ready to accept it. Gr. And it shall please your grace, The dance which ended. There is a high German desires to speak with you. Enter Grut. 1. Ser. The high German that was at Court, he's a man of mighty parts and known to all the Princes in Christendom, what comes he for? Gr. I fear you are betrayed Sir, and that the Duchess has sent for you. Pim. For me, I wonot come yet. 2. Ser. Do not affront him Sir, for your own sake, this high German has beaten all the Fencers in Europe. Pim. Let him beat all the world, what's that to me? shall he make a prize of me? Gr. But if he come Ambassador from the Duchess. Pim. That's another matter, give me the t'other bottle— Now let all the Cantons of Swiss come. Enter Ascanio in Swizzers habit. Which is the high German? let me see him. Gr. That Sir. Pim. he's one of the lowest high Germans that e'er I looked upon. As. I kiss thy highness' hand. Pim. And we embrace this lowness: d'ye hear Sir, are you a high German? As. I was so at the beginning of the wars, what we are beaten to you may discern. Pim. Are you beaten to that? you'll be a very little nation and the wars continue. As. I have a message to deliver you, The fair Duchess of Urbin, whom I wait on, Hearing a person of your blood and quality So meanly lodged, by me desires you would Accept an entertainment in her Court. Pim. We give the Duchess thanks, how knew she I was here? As. It was impossible You should stay undiscovered many hours. Princes have strange intelligence, and you may As soon tie up the Sun beams in a net As keep yourself unknown; for my own part I am honoured in the embassy, and shall Be proud to write myself your pensioner As I am to all the royal blood in Christendom. Pim. O Pensioner, 'tis the least honour we intend thee, I am a natural Prince as sure as I live; here wear this gold, there's more to drink our health, we are pleased no man be sober at our return, as he will answer it, you may be all my subjects: if I marry the Duchess I'll hang you all. Ors. How? Pim. In chains of preferment, drink I say, and drink to purpose, what will become of me now? stay, a word with you high German, what will the Duchess do with me do you think? As. 'Twere sin to say she'll honour you, for you Are above all addition but her love; Your wit, your blood, your person, do not lose The opportunity, yet I prophesy You will be affronted. Pim. No matter, I ha' been affronted a hundred times, but by whom? As. Questionless by some great ones, And perhaps beaten. Pim. I have been beaten too upon good occasion, And will again to save my honour; beaten? I can take the strappado, beside in this part I am insensible, a kick is cast away. As. If you be valiant and endure, it will Engage her love the more, but I know Your breeding will afford you impudence To overcome their envies, and secure This Dukedom to yourself, go on boldly, My counsel shall attend. Pim. I will go on, and fear no beating, well I cannot knight thee, yet prove but a witch I'll make thee one of my privy counsellors. Exit. Enter Mercutio, julio, and Lucio. Mer. No more, my duty will not let me hear it. Lu. How not your duty Sir? Ju. You are not angry? Mer. You are his friends, I should not else be pleased. Lu. We have said nothing to afflict you thus, We did expect this would ha' made you merry. Iu. A son's preferment was not wont to be Such discord to a father, a loving father, For so we took your constitution. Lu. Preferment? 'tis too poor a word. Mer. You were best tell me too he may be Duke. Iu. He is i'th' road, I know not how he'll miss it. Mer. This is three quarters treason, though I love My son, I must not cherish this ambition. Iu. But it will be more than three quarter's treason If you presume to check the Duchess pleasure, And murmur thus if she resolve to marry, And make your son a Duke, you'll not turn rebel. Mer. Defend allegiance, Gentlemen mistake not Although I love my son, I'll not be guilty Of any thought to cross her, but I should Be sorry he should cast away himself. Iu. How d'ye mean? Mer. As men do use when they Do hang or drown themselves. Lu. Have you sense And talk thus wildly. The riddles you have told me. Mer. Yes and understand Lu. Do you count Your son lost by the Duchess loving him? Mer. Go find your wits again, and use 'em better, Can you be so ridiculous to think, So wise, so modest, so religious A Lady can forget her state and honour To place affection on my son. Ju. There have been precedents to make it seem no wonder. Mer. She had better ta'en his head off, there had ended My cares, the boy t'run mad, and what can follow Think ye? go to, I'll to her highness presently. Iu. What to do? Mer. To pray her leave him to a natural death, And choose some other to undo with pride Of her large favours; gentlemen examine But yourselves, could either of you two promise To keep your wits, if such a grace were offered To you? would it not tempt you to be mad, To think of being a Duke? speak honestly, is't fit indeed you should be less than mad? There be some men i'th' world ha' lost their senses When they but chewed the Cud of a bare Lordship, I ha' known a knighthood has turned some men's wits, The very noise o'th' spurs; then do not blame me If I desire my son sober and sensible, And now I think on't I'll first seek him out. Exit. Enter Laura and Melinda. Lu. I think the old man's mad indeed, Dear Madam Laura, Lau. Sweet Sir I cannot stay. Lu. Then I can walk and wait on you. Exit. Iu. You have the same haste too, Thou art a piece of the Duchess Cabinet, I must hear some news. Me. Alas the Court is barren. Iu. I know a trick to make thee fruitful yet, Nay I can mend my pace Lady an you put me too't. Exit. Enter Cornelia, and Pisauro. Cor. Good Sir the reason why you wonder at me Above all other women, what in me Appears so full of prodigy. Pis. I'll tell you, You're young and handsome. Cor. Should I grant I were, This were no miracle. Pis. Withal this youth and handsomeness you're a maid And live at Court too, this I hope's not ordinary. Cor. What wonder will your fancy create next. Pis. You're sound too, or your phisnomy deceives me. Cor. The privilege of my brother's friend must not Engage me to a mockery. Pis. I was About to say you're patient too, I see Something would make you angry, but return To your first temper, and I'll soon acquaint you With all my purpose Lady, to all these Commendations, which meet not in all women, You have birth and fortune, and the favour of The Duchess. Cor. All these carry no such wonder If I have understanding. Pis. No, no, you Are all the wonder Madam that with these Advantages a your side to draw up men's Affections, yet as you despair to have A Husband to the discredit of your sex, Who article at twelve to be dissemblers; You are in love. Cor. In love, is that a sin? Pis. Nay, nay, you court a Gentleman with eyes That are not lawful. Cor. How Sir, be not rude. Pis. I can say more. Cor. Is it your mirth or madness. Pis. No, no, you are mad, worse, I'll prove it, You dote upon your brother, come 'tis impious, Purge, purge betime, your blood is foul, I'm plain There's some on't in your face now that would blush I see through your hearts, a little more Had spoilt him quite, he had forgot all laws Of nature and religion, and been fond To both your shames; a brother, and a sister Tempt one another, good heaven where is conscience And modesty become? preserve yourself You have yet a good name, keep it and drink Julips, You'll find the benefit in your veins. Cor. You have Been very bold upon my constitution. Pis. I know it better than your Doctor, Come Do not deny it, I make no proclamation; What is't to me more than my Christian care You should not hurt your souls, he is my friend Betray him not, 'tis no good sister's part I can assure you, if you be not dull Or blind with giddy passion, you may see Another star shoot influence on him; Be wise and envy not the Duchess favours, Your vessel may be rigged, and trimmed, and launched Into a calmer Sea, and return fraught With lawful prize hereafter, I ha' stirred her, But must not be too hasty. Cor. I shall show myself too full of guilt. Pis. You are troubled at it, A sign of grace; howe'er you think of me Now in the heat of Counsel I'm your friend, You'll find it so, I kiss your hand, farewell. d'ye hear? but two words more, if you do find As being acquainted best with your own body, No disposition to hold out longer, I ha' that will cure you, and I'll justify't Before the college— Take me, d'ye mark, that does it, I kiss your hand, Again farewell, and have a conscience, I'll tell you more next time, this way may work. Exit. Cor. This Gentleman's discourse though somewhat wild And without method shakes me, I am lost If I obey, I know not what within me Too Prompts me to a love so irreligious; He is my brother, holy thoughts possess me, And when a furious passion seeks to invade My will, destroy it heaven— he's here I dare Enter Duchess and Borgia. Not stay to tempt my frailty, let them move With joy, I am not in my sphere of love. Exit. Dut. But tell me signior, nay we are pleased You should be free, upon what confidence Knowing your guilt, and danger to reward it Durst you return to Urbin. Bo. I was more fortunate Than I have reason for, and yet my country And friends were precious madam, nor could life In such a wilderness abroad, where none Durst own me, be a benefit; there was A blessing in my fate to meet your mercy That gave me boldness. Dut. Cunningly dissembled, You met no Lady then in all your travel, I mean none whom you called mistress, with Her loving magic to lay charms upon you And forced your stay. Bo. None Madam, I was not Worth any lady's thought, none were so lost To their own judgements to imagine me More than a walking shadow, or if any Had cherished better thought of me a stranger, They quickly found, they had not placed it right, On so much barrenness which left their charity To pay itself. Dut. You do not promise such A hard and horrid composition, But love may find a shift to enter more Than skin deep in your bosom, but perhaps You left your heart at home, and could not then Dispense with new engagements, it was so, And for her sake you willingly forgot Your danger to return, nay be not troubled, Confession will not injure you, I like You should prefer the beauties of your country. Bo. It Cannot be thought flattery, if I Acknowledge with the narrowest observation My eyes could take, no place hath been more fruitful In beauty than your own, and it doth hold Proportion with your excellence, all should Be fair and imitate your first example. Dut. I see you can be when you lift a Courtier, But this confirms your love is planted here; And since we are fall'n by accident upon This subject, we'll pursue't a little further; Come I must know your Mistress, do not doubt I shall disturb the progress of your loves. Bor. What answer shall I frame, things are not ripe Yet for discovery, so please your highness You would be modest, and excuse, be wiser And apprehend my meaning to advance Your wishes, 'tis within my power to effect As much as your ambition can aim at: Who is it if her heart be stubborn, we Can make it soft; if great above your fortune, We can raise you to her equality, Or bring her down to your level, since we ha' promised In hope not to repent: either declare The mistress of your thoughts, and find them prosper, We are not used to express such bounteous language, But be the proudest, greatest in our Duchy, Without all limitation, she shall carry No birth or state here, to despise the service You fairly mean her: if we fail in this, We will not think our strength worth the preserving Bo. If I have any wit. Enter Cornelio. Cor. Madam the Duke. Dut. What Duke? Cor. The Duke of Ferrara with a glorious train Is come to Court, and as the loud voice is Given out by himself, to claim you for his wife, For which he has your promise. Dut. How our promise? Can Princes be so insolent, beshrew His haste, but we shall lose much of our honour To give no ceremony to his person? howe'er our thoughts point, we will entertain him And dress our face in smiles. Cor. His looks renew My sufferings, I have not power to manage My wild affection, my heart will not Be denied but by a secret destiny. Runs to embrace him— Brother. Dut. Ha, Cornelia I hope you are not courting Borgia, He is your brother, know your place within Our train. Exit. Bo. she's jealous, jealous, stars I thank you, 'tis clear as light she does affect me now: Did she not put me too't, to name my mistress, Yet in a shadow pointed at herself? Be she the proudest, greatest in our Duchy Without all limitation, I marked that And had my sense— if great above your fortune We can raise you to her equality: Fine morals, poor Cornelia loves me too, But I must give her no encouragement: Her grace is much the better woman— ha, Loud Music. A passage over the Stage, Duke, Duchess, Ursini, julio, Lucio, Pietro, Ladies. She appeared discontent when first Cornelia Brought her the news, yet they march lovingly Together, but that ceremony must Be allowed at Court, where shift of face and tongue Are wisely to be practised— my good Lord. Enter Ursini and Pietro. Urs. Your servant Borgia. 'tis her grace's pleasure every gentleman That has relation to the Duke, taste all The bounties of her Court. Bo. How's this? Urs. None dare To affront a Groom on forfeit of his place, Let all the offices of entertainment Be free and open. Pie. I shall signify These her commands. Urs. And they that of her own Court are ambitious to express their duties Let it appear in keeping this day solemn To wine and mirth, that every brow may speak A joy and welcome to the Duke. Pie. I shall. Exit. Bo. Here's like to be a triumph, with your Lordship's Pardon; was that the Duke of Ferrara Urs. Yes of Urbin shortly, when their marriage Is perfect, every subject's heart prays for it, And sent their acclamations to heaven To see her highness lovingly salute him, he's a brave Prince. Bo. A good round gentleman, He did not fly hither; I heard talk of an Ambassador. Urs. A cloud for his own person Till his affairs came to maturity. He stood concealed toth' Duchess, but last night He gained her princely word to marry him, And is this morning bright in his own glories. Bo. Last night. Urs. I'll build more faith upon his honour Fast as a contract. Bo. To what painted Paradise Would she ha' led me? wood I had my sister now. Urs. With this joy I had forgot my own, Borgia; Brother Let not the sound be unwelcome, 'tis the duchess's Pleasure to honour her unworthy creature Ursini, by appointment of our marriage To Wait on hers. Bo. What marriage? Urs. With your sister, I'll not suspect your love, since fair Cornelia Is not displeased to be directed by Her highness, and be confident my love Shall make the memory of it welcome to you; You will excuse me if I take my leave, These hours are full of business, and I have Many commands upon me. Exit. Bo. In good time, I am in a good state again, I was an ass To think the Duchess meant me any thing But mockery, she told me so before To make more sport, I ha' lost my sister too, she's for Ursini's carving, I could curse myself to Milan, but 'tis not impossible I may retrieve Cornelia, by giving her A timely satisfaction, I am not Her brother Borgia: there's all the hope is left, I shall be loath To hunt two hares, and after lose them both. Exit. Actus Quartus. Enter Mercutio and Borgia at several doors. Mer. son you're well met. Bo. Your pleasure Sir. Mer. No great pleasure, I am almost hoarse with Enquiring for you, I must ask you a question, First let me examine your countenance. Bo. Your meaning Sir? Mer. I have no skill in metaposcopy, d'ye know me? Bo. I am not discovered sure, What crotchet's this? Mer. he's proud, he wonot know me: 'Tis so, he's lost, he is undone, nay, nay, It will become me to stand bare to you Sir, And teach my hams the officious cringe; be covered. Bo. I know not how to interpret Sir your language; Yet I would hope you mock me not, although It was the Duchess pleasure to create Mirth from this barren heap, and counterfeit Favours to try my duty, join not you With others to enlarge my scorn, I am not So tame of soul, but I have sense of all Their jeers. Mer. Their jeers? whom do you point upon? Bo. I dare not name the Duchess; I am all Obedience to her person, yet she might Have placed her giddy humour somewhere else It swells not me with expectation, I was not made for state. Mer. Do not you then Think to be Duke. Bo. Should any but yourself Name such a title to me, I should answer His question with a frown, and something else To wait upon't, though I engaged my life To a fresh danger, but I am instructed By nature and religion to be calm At what you say. Mer. On this condition I'll give thee leave to beat me, 'twas my fear Thou hadst an easy faith, and wert transported Indeed out of thy wits, but since I see Thou art not mad, I will commend a wife to thee Bor. To me, I thank you Sir, not yet, I shall be mad indeed then, I will marry None but my sister, take my word. Mer. Thy sister? Bo. I cannot rail upon the Duchess safely; A wife, my mother's dead. Mer. thou'dst not have her? Bo. I think you would not have her out of heaven. 'twere little charity, and the whole sex Were in a dead sleep were't not fin to wake 'em; A wife, I'll seek my sister. Mer. Stay and take My keys, this opens to my gold, go home And take out ten bags. Bo. What to do Sir? Mer. To spend 'em, all's thine own, leave something for Cornelia, because perhaps she'll marry, And I am satisfied, a prudent boy, How am I bound to heaven that he's not proud, Nor taken in the subtle toils of women? he'll never marry, how shall I consume My estate? Dost hear, a little portion Will serve Ursini with thy sister. Bo. Must He marry her? Mer. I let him, we shall please The Duchess too, and when she is disposed The rest is ours to revel with. Bo. I'll think on't. Exit. Enter julio and Lucio. Mer. Did you not meet my son? Iu. Yes somewhat melancholy. Mer. You are deceived, he's choleric, and let Me advise you gentlemen, although I know He loves you, do not mock him, he's no fool; No bladder to be swollen with breath of praise And lady's jigs, he is sensible he is, And will not be the hateful stock of pastime To Grooms and Pages. Lu. What do you mean my Lord? Mer. Call him not Duke, I counsel you. Iu. We do not. Mer. Nor d'ye not think it possible it may be Lu. Have patience, and we do not, we have altered Our opinions, and are clear of your side now. Iu. As the wheels move we do think nothing less, Your son shall not be Duke, there is no fear on't Whilst Ferrara lives. Mer. He shall not. Iu. So we say, sleep quietly. Mer. He shall not, very peremptory, You are no Oracles, would I were Duchess For half an hour, he should be Duke, d'ye hear now; No matter who repented: I thought you Had been his friend, he sha'not be a Duke? howe'er I thought on't, it becomes not you To circumscribe his fortune, he can number Descents of noble blood, and had his breeding; Has none of the worst faces, heads, nor hearts, howe'er you value him and discharge your bolts At random thus, he sha'not. Lu. Hear us Sir. Mer. He shall not be a Duke. Exit. Lu. Did not I say he was mad? Iu. That was dissembled, He has cause now to see a turn i'th' stream, And Ferrara only hopeful with the Duchess, Enter Pisauro and Ascanio. What thing is that? Pis. Is he so confident? As. He will lay about like a Prince, d'ye think We may present him safely? if you say The word I'll wind him up to an Emperor. Pis. Keep thy shape boy, we wonot lose the sport, And happily I will acquaint these gentlemen. As. If I Should be whipped heartily for my conceit, The little high German would not take it kindly, It may be the court largesse; but no matter, I have some gold and dare venture the last At any time for coin of this complexion. Lu. Are you in earnest. In. 'Twill be excellent, And please her highness, she has commanded All liberty of mirth, I'll undertake To prepare her. Pis. About it then, I'll have My part i'th' interlude, lose no time boy, Thou shalt be Prince of Pigmyland for this: The Duchess, I'll withdraw. Enter Duchess, Ferrara, Ursini, Borgia, Cornelia Ladies. Dut. My Lord, you make me wonder, challenge me Of promises? though I acknowledge it, No act that could reflect with a dishonour Upon our person, yet we must not be So jested into marriage, you are a Prince Of an unquestioned merit, take not these Imaginary ways to advance your hopes In us, we are yet free as you my Lord, And shall not in a dream give up ourself, Were we disposed to marry or contract ourself, the day shall witness it without A blush, let guilty souls call night to cover Their promises, we are innocent. Fer. Good Madam Render me not so lost to my own senses, To the honour of a Prince basely to coin A language for my purpose, though you may Repent the last night's freedom, and correct Your judgement of me, make me not so miserable To let the Court think I invented this As destitute of nobler ways to move you, But I presume this is to try my patience And make my joys at last more precious By this delay; I know you are all virtue And cannot stain yourself by a denial Of any syllable you speak. Dut. With pardon Of your grace, I shall laugh if you persist thus: You had a pleasant dream, but lovers Are flattered in their sleep, I speak to you. Fer. Then Madam I take leave, to tell you 'tis not Done like a Princess of that character We have received, and if I had no witness I see what mirth we are prepared for. Dut. Witness There is too much at stake my Lord already, To rack this argument for your own fame, Proceed not to enlarge it, we would rather Confess some guilt against ourself, then let You honour be exposed to such straight censure For loving us, yet if you would be silent In this we shall be proud, in other things To have denied you nothing, and be ashamed You took our Court so unprepared to honour you. Fer. Was ever such a mockery, I see I must produce more testimony, you see Can justify if you please, I have affirmed Nothing but truth, although my willing ear Catched up the voice, she spoke it to you signior. Bo. What my good Lord? Fer. That she resolved to marry us. Bo. Your excellence Must pardon me, I heard her highness speak No language to that purpose. Dut. We honour You Borgia for acquitting us. Cor. 'tis truth her highness never spoke so, but I did Whom supposed the Duchess, and this must Sound hope in him to be so negative. Fer. It seems you have concluded, Madam, I Must be the general mirth. Dut. I find Cornelia's Cunning in this and must apply some compliment For our own honour, good my Lord your privacy. Bo. How ere her grace be a little impudent I had been mad to justify the Duke In such a cause, she has no mind to marry him, And perhaps talked to me last night to try My strength of wit, women are subtle creatures, No matter though Ursini court my sister, My ambitions fair a t'other side again. Enter julio, and Lucio, and whisper with the Duchess. Vrs. 'tis strange the Duchess should so mistake. Cor. Upon My conscience she heard the words. Urs. Yet She denies. Cor. I must believe her too: Urs. You speak a riddle Madam. Du. Will you my Lord Admit of so much mirth. Fer. You shall command me. Dut. Remit 'em then, the rest I'll clear hereafter To your satisfaction. Enter Ascanio, Pimponio, Pisauro Pis. d'ye hear, what Prince d'ye mean to call yourself? Pim. Why any Prince in Spain. Pis No I'll advise you You shall be an Italian Prince in Spanish habit, Now I think better on't, 'tis quaint, and will Be grateful for the witty novelty: Every common Prince goes in his country's fashion Such as you are not ordinary, be bold. Bo. Why didst bring him hither. Pis. Peace I may do you a courtesy, Keep your own counsel and be ignorant Of this strange Creature, say you are— The Duke of— thus disguised for reasons Known to yourself. Pim. Duke of— let me alone. Pis. And be not beaten out of't. Pim. I wonot, let the high German first present me in a speech, Is that the Duchess? so, so. As. I warrant you. Pim. My master or his ghost? Pis. You wonot be a fool and lose yourself, And heaven knows what scorn to take notice on him, Remember who you are. Pim. Umph, umph, stand by fellow. As. Duchess of Urbin never was your Court Graced with the presence of so brave a Prince As this the darling and delight of Christendom. Dut. He seems no less. Urs. What pageants ha' we got. As. And x not yourselves he is no Spaniard. But of Italian sprightly breed, a man Famous in Arts and Arms, as shall appear If any man dares question him, should your grace But see him at some royal exercise You would think him more than mortal, he shall pitch The Bar with any of your Guard, or drink with 'em; Wrestle with both the West and North Olympics, Sings like the Arabian Bird, and can outdance. The nimble Elephant, so rarely skilled In music, that he has a great ambition To go to hell to challenge Orpheus To play with him on any Instrument From the Organ to the Jew's-trump. Dut. Miracles! As. These are the outside of his qualities, But look within him, and your grace shall find Enough to ravish you. Pim. Tell how I love her. As. With all these virtues and advantages Of blood and state he comes to court your highness. Dut. We are infinitely honoured, and would thank him, But that we know not yet this PRINCE's name. As. Duke of Ferrara Madam is his title. Fer. How sirrah? Iu. That is the Duke of Ferrara, what d'ye mean? Pis. Stand too't and say he is a counterfeit A mere impostor, be not beaten out on't. Fer. Are you Duke of Ferrara sirrah, ha. Pim. I am Duke of all the world, what's that to thee? High German stand close to me. As. A true Prince needs no buckler. Exit. Fer. Sirrah dar'st usurp my name? Pim. 'tis mine, thou art a counterfeit, I hope your grace will know me another time. Urs. A base affront my Lord, and suspect A plot of Borgias to dishonour you, He durst not stay to face it. Fer. I'll have's hair, As for this wretch. Pim. Do, do, I looked for this, a true Prince can bear. Fer. Madam you have not used me well. I say no more. Exit. Fer. and Urs. Pim. Let him go madam, I'll call him to account hereafter. Dut. We are displeased, hence with that fool and whip him. Exit. Pim. What's the matter? Iu. You must be whipped and striped my scurvy Don. Pim. Whip a Prince? what d'ye mean? Lu. You must be Duke of Ferrara. Pim. Duke of a Fiddlestick, you do not mean, to let me Catch an Ague Gentlemen? Iu. The lash when the fit comes will keep you warm, do you know one Pimponio, he was a footman, you will be in case to overtake him presently, he has the heels on you, and you cannot give him so much weight, now you are light, stay but a little we'll send you a whip. Exit. Pim. How am I transformed, Duke of Ferrara quotha, would I were any thing, I know not what I am as they have handled me. Enter Duchess and Pietro. Dut. Is the Duke gone? Pie. Yes Madam. Dut. I'll have the fool hanged then. Pim. That's I. Dut. Alas poor fellow, ha, ha, ha, what art thou? Pim. Nothing, I hope she does not know me again, I must deny myself. Dut. Come hither Sirrah, Whose device was it to bid you say you were Duke of Ferrara? Pim. Alas not I Madam, he is gone. Dut. Who is gone? Pim. The insolent fellow that made a fool of your highness. Dut. Whether is he gone? Pim. To obey your grace and be whipped. Dut. Why do you shake so? Pim. I'm very warm and please your grace. Dut. Where be your clothes? Pim. My clothes? I never wore any more in my life, I sweat with these. Dut. He has punishment enough, who waits? Bid Borgia attend us. Pie. I shall Madam. Exit. Enter Borgia. Bor. How now sirrah, what are you? Pim. A Tumbler, do you know me? Bor. I know thee? Pim. What not Pimp. honest Pimponio. Enter Pietro. Pie. Signior Borgia her grace calls for you. Bo. I attend. Exit. Pim. How signior Borgia? than I am not I, and there is no Staying here to find myself, as I remember some friends of mine, did promise me a comfortable whip, I'll rather venture a cold then stay for't, I must be Dukified, be persuaded into kicks— they'll return, I wonot tempt my destiny, she promised to hang me, and I can do that for myself when I have a mind too't. Enter julio, and Lucio. Ju. Kick that fellow out of the Court. Pim. You are mistaken Sir, he means somebody else, I have been kicked already. Exit. Enter Duchess and Borgia▪ Bo. Madam you let fall. Dut. Let it re ward your pains. Iu. Observed you that. Dut. Convey this to Mercutio, it creates him Controller of our household, this I hope Will merit more of his acquaintance with Our Court. Bo. You honour your poor creatures. Dut. Leave us, Exit. You may stay Sir, what suit, what that you named? Bo. Suit Madam? Dut. Did not you say you had a suit to us, I hope your modesty will teach you how To limb it your request, that it may be Such as may both become our grant and your Acceptance, speak what is't Bo. My suit Madam? Dut. But in the confidence of your discretion Name and enjoy what you desire. Bo. This bounty Of language is beyond all my ambition. Dut. Well Sir toth' purpose, I would have you speak To purpose now. Bo. To purpose, would I durst, This exceeds all the rest, shall I be mad And lose this opportunity. Dut. We are prepared Bo. Better? my happiness flows upon me My suit is Madam, you would be pleased to— What shall I say, she looks so keen and tempting, I have a great mind to kiss her. Dut. Not resolved yet? Bo. Long since, my humble suit is to you Madam, that— Dut. What? Dut. I may be numbered still among your creatures And keep a blessing in your gracious smiles Upon my humble service. Dut. A smile and humblest service, is this all? You wonot purchase much by being a Courtier. Bo. The greatest rise by favour, I ha' lost An opportunity. Dut. Is there nothing else? Bo. She Asks again, now I'll put her too't, We are private, I have another suit Madam. Dut. A courtier should have many, what is't made on? Bo. Of love. Dut. A pretty winter wearing, and keeps well In fashion. Bo. May I presume to as ask your grace. Dut. A question? yes Sir. Bo. Do you love me Madam? Dut. How Sir? Bo. Does your grace love me? Dut. Audacious Groom, how dares thy soul imagine So great an impudence, almost treason to us, Are all our favours thought so cheap? and we Considered in the crowd of other women Fit for your mixture, to be stained with loose And desperate proffers of your wanton service? Have we no more distinction in our birth And titles? Or d'ye hope we are disarmed Of strength to punish such an insolence? Had smiles ta'en such possession of our brow Thou couldst expect no killing frown for this? Was our eye grown so tame nothing could quicken it Into a flame, into a consuming lightning, When such an object durst appear to vex it? Thus we could spurn thy saucy head off— but We pardon it, d'ye hear? we freely pardon it, To show mercy is above all fault, And that we are at home Queen of our passions, Nor shall you suffer under the remembrance, 'tis now as it had never been, and you keep The first place in our thoughts. Bo. Ha'? Dut. Wisely preserve'em And rather chide your timorous understanding Then think us angry, had your sin been greater We should have met it charitably, come, You are our Secretary, write as we shall dictate. Bo. Did ever Sunshine break so suddenly From such a black and most prodigious cloud? I would ha' sold my body for a bean stalk Within two minutes, sh'as an excellent wit And cunningly she reins it, what's your pleasure I shall write Madam? Dut. A letter, a love letter, are you ready, Write as I bid upon your life,— I love you. Bo. I am prepared. Dut. Write I love you Sir, d'ye not understand me? Bo. she'll make me mad, I ha'done, I love you. Dut. How Sir? Bo. There wanted Sir, I love you Sir. Dut. And if you be not short of apprehension. Bo. And if, etc. Dut. You'll wisely entertain it. Bo. You'll wisely, etc. Dut. All errors be forgot, meet me this evening Bo. All errors, etc. Dut. I'th' privy Garden, and receive more testimony. Bo. I'th' privy garden, etc. Dut. Mean time here is my hand, that in the morning I'll marry you. Bo. Mean time, etc..— What a devil does she mean? I ha' done, it wants your confirmation— so. To whom shall I direct it? Dut. You will be trusty, there's danger else. Bo. To whom? Dut. To him that loves me best, Deceive me not farewell. Exit. Bo. I love you Sir, etc. 'tis a letter, and I wrote it, To whom, to him that loves her best, if none love her better, 'tis to myself? Why am I so scrupulous? She has made me Chancellor in the cause, There's no particular named, yet she was angry, Yet she was pleased again, and had my crime Been greater, she had met it charitably. Come I perceive the whole device as sure As I have any sense, she does affect me, And tries me at the last weapon of wit How I'll behave myself, are you there Duchess; She is my own, and this invites me to The close of all my happiness, if I Forfeit this opportunity, let Midas Transplant his goodly ears to this dull head, And let all women laugh at me, my stars I bow to you, and kiss your influence, I am exalted to your sphere already, Where, with the Duchess I will sit and shine A constellation. Enter Ferrara. Fer. You're well met Sir, Borgia I take it. Bor. You may change that name And call me servant. Fer. You have prostrate language, But carry treason in your heart, you know me? Bo. Duke of Ferrara. Fer. So, was't your plot to bring That puppet to affront me 'fore the Duchess? Was there no other name to be usurped, Dishonoured, and profaned by hounds and monkeys But mine? Bo. I understand you not, your anger Is not directed right my Lord, I am not Guilty in thought. Fer. Your fears shall not excuse. Bo. You are abused. Fer. I know I am Sir, and Will print revenge upon your heart, 'tshall carry The character of a villain. Bo. I must tell you Duke. Fer. What Sir? Bo. Were you master of the world, Could you shoot death beyond a Basilisk, Or had you mischief in your breath above The Lernaean vapours, or the killing steam Of the hot lake that poisons innocent Birds But daring to fly over, I would rise With as much confidence to scorn this calumny As I would quench my thirst, or chide my Groom The drudges for me, Duke I am no villain, And though my blood runs not so deep a purple There's no corruption in the chapest vein My Liver feeds, 'tis clear and honest sir, In thy own Court I'll meet and tell thee so Maugre thy guards, and gaudy Butterflies, I dare, by innocence, I dare. Fer. You think The place protects you now. Bo. Were it in a Church No drop of mine could stain it, Duke I cannot Fear and be master of a sword, that needs No valour in a cause so just as mine To stir the point, by all my hopes. Fer. Thy hopes, Of what reversion? what Grooms place is vacant? Bo. Come 'tis not done becomingly To insult because you have a privilege Of Duke above you, I am here a servant To a most gracious Princess. Fer. At that name I drew New flame, and should I credit thy soul free From this dishonour, thou hast sin enough In thy ambition to pull ruin on thee, Are we too fit to be in competition Sir? Hast thou a thought so proud, so daring in thee To be my rival? Have I courted her To her own height, a Prince? and shall her vassal Look on her with an eye, less than serves The Altar with, because she is pleased some time To laugh, and seem indulgent to your services For her own sake, can you have brain to think Such treason to her judgement, that she loves you? Or can she be so lost to truth and honour Not to make good her promises to me Religious as a contract, has she not Declared me worthy of her, and my love The best of all the world. Bo. How was that Sir? Fer. The best of all the world, 'tis not that I Can be so poor in my esteem of her Whose mention is sacred, or myself That I have any jealousy thou canst Inherit possibly the hundredth part Of any thought that points upon affection Hast thou no soul to apprehend thy scorn? Nay did she not, fearing thou might'st grow insolent Upon her favours late declare herself, It was not love but mirth and wantonness Of revelling nights, commanding on thy life Thou feed no ambition higher, or feed a thought To her, beyond what waited upon duty You may remember this. Bo. 'tis clear, this none Could tell him but herself, I find too plain Who is the may-game of the Court, this last Convinces me, your pardon mighty Sir You love the Duchess. Fer. Best she will acknowledge Of all mankind. Bo. I have a letter to you, I will not doubt my pardon when you read it, 'tis to you Sir if there can be a joy beyond what's there contained▪ Fer. Ha? I am blessed, Borgia let me embrace thee my best friend Dwell in my heart, divide with me Ferrara Or Urbin, any thing but the Duchess, say I'll meet her in the Garden were it walled With flaming Dragons, I have not a soul Spacious enough to entertain this happiness Beyond my hope, above my life dear Borgia. Exit. Bo. Beyond his hope? it seems this joy was not Expected umph, and I had no commission To give it him, after all this if she Meant it not this way, I ha' made fine work, She might ha' named him, would I had the paper Again, now do I prophesy I have Undone myself, and only her grace meant That I should meet her, curse upon my easiness; I have lost an opportunity, no fate Flattered a mortal with the like, dull brains, There's yet prevention, genius I thank thee, 'tis possible I may secure the Garden And boldly meet her first, if any destiny Owe me this blessing with this art I may Redeem my folly, never man but I Would lose so rich an opportunity. Exit. Ectus Quintus. Enter Duchess, Mercutio, Ladies. Mer. MAdam I know not what to say, my heart Is full of hearty zeal to obey you, but the place You have conferred upon my years, is much Above my strength to satisfy, yet I thank you. Dut. You have deserved we should encourage you For what is past, your son is full of hope And may grow up a statesman. Mer. He owes all To your infinite favours Madam, a young man, And would be active upon your commands. Dut. Leave us, stay my Lord we must employ you. Mer. I have not life enough to serve you Madam, My age is now a burden, that I could Shake off a score of winters. Dut. There's no such Necessity of youth to execute The service you design, you love your son. Mer. Above my own health Madam, and let me Be bold to tell your grace, I love him better For your sake. Dut. For our sake. Mer. That he can carry Himself so handsomely to deserve your good Opinion, every Courtier that's advanced To a warm place, does not behave himself Always to purpose. Dut. To what purpose Signior? Mer. To please his Mistress, and I am, I must Confess proud of his expectations, It makes my blood dance Madam. Dut. You are very merry. Mer. I hope to have more cause. Dut. Well Sir, while we Retire into the Garden, be it your care We be not interrupted, give access To none but Borgia, we have some privacies Only concern his knowledge. Mer. My son Borgia. Dut. Your son, if you do call him Borgia. Mer. Shall I go for him? Dut. he'll be so officious Perhaps to spare that trouble, if he come Be diligent and admit him. Exit. Mer. I shall Madam; she's gone into the Garden, and commands I give access to none but Borgia; If he come, she has given me another office To keep the door, it has been a preferment. I will do't now in spite of my own humour, Ha boy! something will come on't, if he have The grace to nick this opportunity. Enter Ferrara. Fer. The evening wastes apace, I cannot be Too soon at my desires, who's that? Mer. he's come; Already Borgia. Fer. One stands sentinel, Is that the word? who names Borgia. Mer. My son. Fer. The same. Mer. This evening make thee happy, enter, no ceremony I am not now against thy being a Duke, Prove fortunate my boy, and bless thy father. Exit Fer. So, so, if it were noon, and the Sun looked With his broad brightest eye upon's, there are Convenient cozening Arbours, cost bestowed On pretty mazes, labyrinths of love, You might be there secure, and entertain Sweet time, most tall and fashionable hedges In whose enclosures, Ladies that are willing May lose themselves, and the next walk no wiser; Now I think on't, this Cloister with the help Of such an evening might be dark enough For such a turn; many a gentle woman Has been content to embrace upon worse terms Oh the Court lobbies, but I tell no tales, Enter Borgia. Another moving this way, by his favour The Gardens taken up. Bo. 'tis the best way To say I am the Duke, that if he follow He may prevent his own access. Mer. Umph, umph. Bor. That name will make the gates fly open to me And I pass undiscovered. Mer. What are you? Bo. Here do thy office, I am the Duke. Mer. The Duke Your grace must pardon me, I am commanded To admit none, her highness will enjoy The garden privately. Bo. Lord Mercutio. Mer. Your servant, but in this my duty must Aim at another's pleasure, if you be The Duke I cannot help it, I am but Green in my honours, and I would not forfeit 'em With my own head to boot in her first service. Bo. Then I'll discover I am Borgia Your son, your happy Borgia, be not you The enemy, and bar my glorious fortune, The Duchess has commanded me this evening To meet her in the Garden, I can tell Thee wonders old Mercutio, she loves me, More I have an assurance from her hand she'll make me Duke old lad. Mer. Be not transported For if you be my son do you observe You are yet but Borgia, and I your father Old Mercutio, and old lad. Bo. Your pardon Sir, My joy of such a bliss allows no bound, Why are you slow to make your son the happiest Of all mankind, the evenings big with glory The winds do whisper gently whose I am, The birds with Music wait to entertain me Into love's Bower, the Trees bow to my entrance, And she that is the Mistress of all these Will bid me welcome. Mer. Are you Borgia. Bor. There's death in these delays, do not you know me? Or dare you not believe what I affirm Touching the Duchess. Mer. I believe you are Borgia to my grief, and do believe What you have said; her grace did appoint me To wait here, and commanded I should give Access to none but Borgia, d'ye mark? She was pleased to tell me, she had business only Concerned your knowledge I dispute not what, But 'tis some excellent affair I am confident, She was so merry about the lips and eyes And praised you to my face. Bo. If this have faith w'ee Why am not I admitted? Mer. All in good time. Bo. The gates should spread themselves. Mer. They shall not need, I'll reach them with less trouble▪ But first I have a suit to you. Bo. To me, Speak and command it. Mer. 'tis within man's remembrance That you did want a pardon, now beg mine, And make what other conditions with the Duchess You please. Bo. Your pardon? Mer. Yes I am parcel Traitor Against my will, and too much care about My office made me abuse it, I admitted Another gentleman, that deceived me with Your name, and how her grace may punish me Is in my fears, unless you mediate for me. Bo. Did any take my name. Mer. Yes, and at first Sound I discharged my duty the wrong way And let him in. Bo. In? whether? Mer. Into the Duchess. Bo. I am undone, this minute, I am blasted; It was the Duke upon my life. Mer. The Duke, it may be so, although 'twere duskish methought he carried more compass with him; But why should he take your name? Bo. Lost for ever. Mer. You found I had no zeal to his, however Lose no more time; your power with her grace May set all straight, and purchase me a pardon. Bo. Be rather lost as I am in thy dotage, Thou hast deprived me of the wealthiest harvest That ever Sunbeams shined on Mer. Does he thou me? How would he domineer and he were Duke? Bo. My fortune bleeds to death, 'tis now too late That paper ruins all my hope, and were We equal, the would scorn my want of confidence And laugh me out o'th' world. Mer. he's very passionate. Bo. But there's no dwelling in this Wilderness, Things past are past sorrow, there is yet A way to bind my wound up and secure My health, though not a life with so much state As was expected, instantly I'll to Cornelia, I know she loves me still, At worst a little passion bestowed On her, with clearing I am another brother Makes her my own, and keeps me from the Pasquill; I shall be jeered to dust else, there's my rest, He that loves more than one is seldom blessed. Exit. Mer. he's gone and I am like to suffer for't, By your highness' favour I will wait no longer To be chastised, but when your grace is weary, You shall not need to strike me at the door; 'tis open and I vanish in the dark; Stay and I'll send some others to attend you, You will want light, my son shall be no Duke I perceive now, nor will I be a Courtier; Put me to keep the door? Exit. Enter Cornelia, Laura, and Melinda. Cor. Did she dismiss you then? Lau. 'Twas not her pleasure We should attend. Mel. We left my Lord Mercutio Your father with her. Cor. Went she towards the Garden? Lau. Yes, where's your brother Borgia? Cor. I know not. Mel. He is infinitely beholding to her grace, She never mentions him without a flourish: I know not, but if I have any skill In looks or language, there is something more Than common in her highness' breast meant toward him Lau. She may be in love. Cor. In love with whom? Laus Your brother. Cor. I blush to hear your weakness, I hope he Hath more wit than to build vain hopes on that; Eagles stoop not to flies. Mel. But the Wren Couched underneath the aspiring Eagles wings. Quickly advance itself when ones mounted And glories in her hight, 'tis but a step And the small thing is King of birds, the fable Has pretty morals in't. Cor. I am not sure A rebel in my nature to his fortune, But dare not pawn my own discretion To take up your opinions. Enter Pietro: Pie. Signior Pisauro your brother's friend desires To speak with you. Lau. we'll leave you Madam, by this time her grace May want our duties. Enter Pisauro. Pis. Did I fright you Ladies, look better on me. Lau. We have seen you round Sir. Pis. But do not know what's in me. Mel. We desire To die in that precious ignorance. Exit. Pis. This Lady I hope's not of your mind. Cor. Your pleasure My servant says you would speak with me? Pis. If you Remember Lady I was bold to urge A little counsel on you, how it fastens I come to understand. Cor. What counsel Sir. Pis. About your brother Signior Borgia. Cor. Please you assist my memory. Pis. Why it was But this, I had a kind of fear you loud This brother Madam. Cor. Would you have me be So impious not to affect my brother. Pis. But you loved him the wrong way, d'ye hear lustily You understand, with the desire of coupling: There lies no dispensation for that lock, 'tis impious and abominable, you had better I'th' state you are in keep a Pensioner To give you heats, a fellow that will venture His body at all hours; then to offend once With so much sin to nature. Cor. Do you think I am a Monster Signior? Pis. Better marry An honest man and make one a great deal: Your husband may be excused i'th' progress Lady, Besides he may have faults, a negligence In's visits, or mistaking of his times, When you are invited by another Lord To a banquet, or take physic, or the air Appointed by your Doctor, there are reasons To excuse an active Lady that is married But to affect your brother so, inexpiable. Cour You have invention enough to furnish The Court with vice, howe'er you seem to have Care of my soul, pray give me pardon Sir, Do you ever mean to marry? Pis. Marry? oh yes. Cor. Not a Court Lady sure. Pis. One of that tribe to choose. Cor. Without the fear Of being such a monster made by her Whose wantonness you wittily have charactered. Pis. Iha read my destiny, she that I shall marry Will be very honest, exceeding chaste as I Shall be to her, I did but tell you what Whirligigs are i'th' world, and that 'twere better And safer for your conscience to be one Of Venus' order, and keep tame a Groom A stallion Dormant then embrace a brother. Cor. What should incline you To imagine me so lost to modesty? What have you read in me to make you think I love my brother so? Pis. My charity. Cor. There's little charity in those suspicions. Have you no other argument. Pis. Your brother Told me himself you loved him strangely. Cor. So, so. Pis. Nay, nay he was i'th' same pickle. Cor. He told You that himself too. Pis. Yes, yes, till I tampered with him And sacrificed his flesh with ghostly counsel, Read Law and Lectures, I will tell you Madam He was once so overgrown with love, he had Resolved to tell you he was not your brother, And rather then be frustrate of his hopes Vowed to forswear it, and suborn testimony He was no kin to you, borne I know not where, And never saw the town afore, whose people Had all this while cozened themselves, with an Opinion he was Borgia; here's a youth now, Did he ne'er deal with you to such a purpose. Cor. Never, he would not be so wicked sure. Pis. Did you ever hear the like? you know it now, Thank heaven and a good friend that told you this; A friend that would not see this pretty vessel Lost i'th' quicksands, when both goods and it May be his own another day: I love you And none shall do you wrong. Cor. I should be ingrateful Not to acknowledge Sir this noble office Meant to preserve me. Pis. That was my pure meaning, You may requite it if you please. Cor. With love. Pis. 'Tis the reward my ambition first aims at. Cor. I love my brother now in his own place, And being his bosom friend I will not question, But to enlarge my knowledge of your worth And take me nearer to me for his Character, And free consent. Pis. Umph, now you bless me Lady, If his hopes thrive in the Duchess as I doubt not I am made, I'll seek him out, I wish no better Testimony, he shall not gi't you unders hand. Cor. No haste. Pis. He knows me to a thought, nay, nay He shall do't presently, if I can light on him. Cor. Tomorrow Signior, I suspect it not. Pis. It does concern my honour, 'tis done instantly, She may be cold ere morning, I'll not lose This opportunity, I am made for ever. Exit. Cor. He has an odd way of Courtship, sure my brother, Unless he know him better than this wildness Can promise, will be sparing to contract Our hearts too fast, he has but a rough outside, But my strange thoughts within me are corrected, And I possess myself again thank providence, Ursini. Enter Ursini. Urs. Madam I am bold to press On your retirement, but when you remember I bring no mutinous thoughts, but such as are Devoted to your service, you will think it A trespass that may soon invite a pardon. Cor. You must first practise to offend my Lord, This is favour to me. Urs. Still such goodness Flows from your language to me at the first Encounter; but when I take boldness to Have some assurance from you alone, Which I have hoped and served for, with the truth Of your best honourer, you decline the subject, Or fly the sweet conclusion. Cor. My Lord, That you have loved, at least professed so much, May easily be granted, but let me Beseech you Sir, did you upon the first Motion that wrought upon your mind to think Me worthy of your love acquaint me with it. Urs. No Madam, I long cherished the soft fire That tried the pureness of it, and the object That shot so bright a flame into my bosom, And had suppressed it still, but that your virtue Grew up too powerful against it, than I took leave to express how much I wished To be your votary. Cor. Give me equal licence My Lord in the same cause to try myself, I have thoughts too would be composed of something In you to be examined. Urs. I submit, And shall obey your censure, life and death Hang on your lip, I come to be determined Your servant or your sacrifice, for to languish At distance thus. Cor. Then you expect an answer Presently, I much fear my Lord I sha'not, In that particular, satisfy your Lordship. Urs. You want no knowledge of me, there is nothing In my past fate but may appear to you, My nature needs no gloss, my blood, my fortune Clear to your view, my person not much withered; If these together want a charm, I can Deserve you may love, for I know best The extent of my devotions, and the heart That though you should despise it must still serve you. Cor. But good my Lord what answer you to this? Is it becoming the discretion Of a noble servant to pursue his mistress By unruly ways, and interpose commands And power of great ones to enforce the heart Of any Lady: though I must confess Her grace may challenge my obedience To her law and person, it has been yet a rule, And love and religion cannot be compelled Urs. You do not conclude me, if I obtained A favour from the Duchess to propound My wishes, and plead for me, I know well The soul is not her subject, could her power Bestow your body on me, and that I Could boast myself Lord of beauteous frame Without your mind, I were more tyrant to Accept than she to force, and answer for A crime more fatal than the ravishers. Enter Pietro. Pie. Your brother Madam. Cor. If I have any power My Lord you must not leave me, yet I would Entreat your small retreat behind the hangings For a few minutes. Urs. Your command's a favour. Enter Borgia. Bo. Oh Cornelia. Cor. What's the matter brother. Bo. Are you alone. Cor. You see my company. Bo. d'ye love me. Cor. Love you brother, what have I Done to beget your doubt. Bor. But do you love me More than a sister? if I were not Borgia, Remove from us the common tie of blood Which is not love, but forced of nature in us, Could you affect me then, then if I answered This honour with a true and noble flame Upon such brave conditions, Cornelia Could our hearts meet and marry? Cor. This were strange, But not so strange that we should love. Bo. Then pardon Fairest Cornelia, and make him blessed Whose very soul dotes on thee, I have but Usurped the name of Borgia, I can give Thee proof. Cor. 'Tis come about. Enter Pisauro. Bo. Pisauro welcome The man of all mankind, most wished for welcome: Madam this gentleman can witness I am None of your brother, we were bred together, Both borne in Milan, and my name is Aurelio Androzzi son to Paulo Androzzi major domo to the Dukedom, My friend too of a noble family. Pis. Did not I tell you this. Bo. Weary of home We both engaged ourselves to try our fortune Abroad, and for the wars had last designed ourselves, we took but Urbin in the way, Where some good stars detained us, and I taken For Borgia pursued thus far the story. Cour Ha, ha, ha. Bo. d'ye laugh at me, Pisauro she's incredulous. Speak and convince her with thy testimony. Pis. I have told enough already. Bo. She wants faith. Cor. That gentleman prepared me for this history, Do you not blush brother? Sir I thank you. Pis. I am sorry for his impudence. Bo. Cornelia, Pisauro Why art thou silent. Pis. I tell you I did speak to her. Cor. 'Tis time I then dispose myself. Pis. Now my happiness. Cor. My Lord I pray come forth. Enter Ursini .You Gentlemen by your own confessions Are strangers to me, and although I do not Distrust heaven's providence, I shall not sin To give my freedom up where I am known; My Lord if you accept Cornelia she's thus confirmed your own. Urs. With greater joy Than I would take an Empire, this drops peace Upon my brother's ashes, and unites For ever our two families. Pis. Where's the Duchess? Bo. I prithee do not vex me. Pis. Do not vex thyself, come we're at large, our constitution Would ha' been troubled with a wife, we have The world before us, store of game is necessary. The Duchess. Enter Duchess, Ferrara, Pietro, julio, Lucio Laura Melinda. Dut. You now possess us freely, the next morning Shall spread this joy through Urbin. Urs. We are happy And every heart congratulates. Fer. We thank you Signior Ursini, you have been faithful to us. Dut. Is your name Borgia? Bo. No Madam, Dut. Where's our letter? We did not think you'd been so apprehensive, You see it now confirmed, we hope you had No thought we meant it otherwise, be prudent And careful in your province, heaven I see Would have it thus, and rectify our folly. Enter Mercutio. Mer. Your pardon gracious Madam. Dut. Signior, We thank your diligence, possess our favour. And know the Duke. Mer. I am one of the worst keepers of a door, Dut. No more, all's well. Mer. I'm glad on't. Urs. Sir your blessing. Cor. Madam your smiles upon us and we cannot Despair of happiness. Mer. But where's Borgia? Bo. I know not Sir. Fer. Rise ever fortunate. Pimponio within. Oyes, oyes. Dut. What's the matter? Iu. A fool has lost his master, and thus cries him About the Court. Pis. Pimponio a' my conscience. Enter Pimponio. Pim Oyes; If any man there be In town or in country Can tell me of a wight Was lost but yesternight, His name was I know Signior Aurelio, By these marks he is known, He had a bush of his own, Two eyes in their place And a nose on his face, His beard is very thin But no hair on his chin, Bring word to the crier His desolate squire, And for this fine feat Take what you can get; And heaven bless Pimponio, for nobody knows me And I know nobody else to pray for. Cor. he's not my brother indeed then. Mer. Nor my son. Pis. 'Tis too true Madam, here, here's thy master Pim. No, no, that's Signior Borgia, do not deceive yourself Bo. We are both deceived Pimponio shall I hope Of your free pardon Madam for all trespasses? My Lord your breath is powerful. Dut. Rise Aurelio. Fer. And be dear to us. Mer. I hope the pardon's firm. Dut. Irrevocable. Mer. I'll dispatch letters then to Naples, thence He did salute me last, how were we cozened! But Sir I thank you for my Borgias pardon. Cor. Although it be clear now you're not my brother Pray take my poor acknowledgement, I shall Be proud for your sake, to preserve your friendship. Bor. May your hopes prosper in him; now we two With licence of your excellence may Prosecute our design again for the wars. Dut. If nothing else at Court invite your stay We lay commands upon you as our servant That you see all our ceremonies finished, To celebrate this happy union You must be both our guests. Pim. Do let us feast And fortify ourselves, we shall have Our bellies full of fighting time enough. Pis. Thinks your grace so? Dut. Subjects may love as their rude sense imparts, But heaven doth only govern PRINCE's hearts. FINIS.