The Effigies of the Lord Digby Son and Heir to the Right honble john Earl of Bristol    

ELVIRA.: OR, The worst not always true.  
A COMEDY.  
Written by a Person of Quality.  
Licenced May 15. 1667.  
Roger L'Estrange.  
LONDON, Printed by E. Cotes for Henry Brome in Little-Brittain. 1667.   


PERSONS.  
Don Julio Rocca.  
Don Pedro de Mendoca.  
Don Fernando Solis: In love with Donna Elvira.  
Don Zancho de Menezes: In love with Donna Blanca.  
Fabio: Servant to Don Fernando.  
Fulvio: Servant to Don Pedro  
Chichon: Servant to Don Zancho.  
A Page.   

WOMEN.  
Donna Elvira: A beautiful Lady, Don Pedro's Daughter.  
Donna Blanca: A Lady of a high Spirit Don Julio's Sister.  
Silvia: Elvira's disguised Name, when she was put to wait upon Donna Blanca.  
Francisca: Donna Blanca's Woman.   
SCENE VALENCIA.   

ELVIRA., OR, The Worst not always True.  

ACT. I. SCENE. I. The Room in the Inn.  Enter Don Fernando, and at another door his servant Fabio, both in Riding clothes, Booted. Don Fer. 
HAve you been with him Fabio, and given him  
The Note?  Fabio. 
I found him newly got out of his bed, (pris '  
He seemed much satisfied, though much sur-  
With your arrival, and as soon as possibly  
He can get ready, he'll be with you here.  
He says, he hopes some good occasion brings you  
To Valencia, and that he shall not be  
At quiet, till he know it. 'Twas not fit  
For me, without your Orders, to give him  
Any more light, than what your Ticket did.  Don Fer. 
'Tis well, go now and see if Donna Elvira  
Be stirring yet, for I would gladly have her  
A witness, even at first, to what shall pass  
Betwixt my friend and me, in her concernments:  
If she be still a sleep Fabio, make bold  
To knock, and wake her, we've no time to lose.  
O here she comes, wait you Don Julio.  Enter Donna Elvira. Exit Fabio. Don. Elu. 
Ah, can you think my cares and sleep consistent?  
Slumber and tears, have sometimes met in dreams,  
But hearts with such a weight as mine oppressed,  
Find still the heaviest sleep too light a Guest.  Don Fer. 
Madam, though such, least pity do deserve,  
Who by their own unsteadiness, have drawn  
Misfortune on themselves; Yet truly Elvira  
Such is my sense of Yours, and my compassion,  
To see a Lady of your Quality,  
Brought to such sad extremes, in what is dearest,  
As makes me even forgit my own resentments,  
Granting to Pity, the whole place of Love,  
And at that rate I'll serve you. Yet thus far  
You must allow th' eruption of a heart  
So highly injured, as to tell you frankly,  
'Tis to comply with my own Principles  
Of Honour, now, without the least relation  
To former passion, or to former favours.  Don. Elu. 
Those you have found a ready way to cancel;  
Your sullen silence, during all our journey,  
Might well have spared you these superfluous words,  
That had sufficiently instructed me  
What power, mere appearances, have had  
Without examination to destroy  
With an umbragious nature, all that Love  
Was ever able on the solid'st grounds  
To found and to establish. Yet me thinks,  
A man that boast such principles of Honour,  
And of such force to sway him in his Actions  
In spite of all resentments, should reflect,  
That Honour does oblige to a suspense  
At least, of judgement, when surprising chances  
Yet unenquired into, tempt gallant men  
To prejudicial thoughts of those, with whom  
They had settled friendship, upon virtuous grounds.  
But 'tis from heaven I see, and not from you,  
Elvira must expect her vindication;  
And until then submit to th' hardest fate,  
That ever can befall a generous spirit,  
Of being obliged by him that injures her.  Fer. 
Nay, speak Elvira, speak, You have me attentive,  With a kind of scornful accent. 
It were a wonder worthy of your wit,  
To make me trust my Ears, before my Eyes.  Don. Elu. 
Those are the witnesses indeed, Fernando,  
To whose true testimonies false Inference,  
You owe my moderation, and my silence,  
And that I leave it to the gods and time,  
To make appear both to the world and you,  
The Maxim false, That still the worst proves true.  Enter Fabio. Fabio. 
Don Julio is without.  Fer. 
Wait on him in,  Exit Fabio. 
And now Elvira  
If you'll be pleased to rest yourself a while  
Within that Closet, you may hear what passes  
Betwixt my friend and me, until such time  
As I by some discourse having prevented  
Too great surprise, you shall think fit t'appear;  
He is the man, (as I have often told you  
During my happy days) for whom alone  
I have no reserves, and 'tis to his assistance,  
That I must owe the means of serving you,  
In the concernments of your safety and honour;  
And therefore, Madam, 'twill be no offence  
I hope, to trust him with the true occasion  
That brings me hither, to employ his friendship,  
Observing that respect in the relation, (Colset.  
Which I shall always pay you.  Elvira retiring as into the Don. Elu. 
There needs no management in the Relation,  
I am indifferent what others think,  
Since those who ought, t'have thought the best, have failed me:  
Sir, I obey, resigned up to your conduct,  
Till Mistress of my own.  Exit. Enter Don Julio, and Fernando, and he Embrace. Don. Jul. 
My joy to have my dear Fernando here  
So unexpectedly, as great as 'tis  
Cannot make Jullo unsensible  
Of th' injury you have done him, t'have alighted  
And passed a night-within Valencia,  
At any other place than at his house,  
Donna Blanca herself, will scarce forgive it  
When she shall know it.  Don. Fer. 
I hope she's well.  Jul. 
She is so, thanks to heaven,  
But I must bid you expect a chiding from her.  Fer. 
You both, might well accuse me of a failure,  
Did not th' occasion of my coming hither  
Bring with it an excuse, alas too just,  
As you will quickly find.  Don Jul. 
Nay, than you raise disquiet, ease me quickly,  
By telling me what 'tis; of this be sure  
Heart, hand, and fortune, are entirely yours  
At all Essays.  Fer. 
It is not new t'ee, that I was a Lover  After pausing a while. 
Engaged in all the passion, that e'er Beauty,  
In height of its perfection, could produce,  
And that confirmed by reason, from her wit,  
Her Quality, and most unblemished conduct;  
Nor was there more, to justify my love,  
Then to persuade my happiness, in her  
Just correspondance to it, by all the ways  
Of honourable admission, that might serve  
To make esteem transcend the pitch of Love.  Don Jul. 
Of all this I have not only had knowledge  
But great participation in your joys;  
Than which, I thought nothing more permanent,  
Since founded on such virtue as Elvira's.  Don Fer. 
Ah, Julio, how fond a creature is the man,  
That found'st his bliss, upon a woman's firmness,  
Even that Elvira, when I thought myself  
Securest in my happiness, nothing wanting  
To make her mine, but those exterior forms,  
Without which, men of honour that pretend  
In way of Marriage, would be loath to find  
Greater concession, where the love is greatest.  
As I was sitting with her, late at night,  
By usual admittance to her Chamber,  
As two whose hearts in Wedlock Bands were joined,  
And seemed above all other care but how  
Best to disguise things, to a wayward Father,  
Till time, and art, might compass his consent;  
A sudden noise was heard in th' inner Room  
Belonging to her Chamber, she starts up  
In manifest disorder, and runs in,  
Desiring me to stay, till she had seen  
What caused it; I impatient, follow,  
As fearing for her, had it been her Father:  
My head no sooner was within the Room,  
But straight I spied behind a Curtain shrinking  
A goodly Gallant, but not known to me.  Don. Jul. 
Heavens what can this be?  Fer. 
You will not think that there, and at that hour,  
I stayed to ask his Name, he, ready as I,  
To make his Sword th'expresser of his mind,  
We soon determined what we sought; I hurt  
But slightly in the arm, he fell as slain  
Run through the body: What Elvira did,  
My rage allowed me not to mark; But straight  
I got away, more wounded to the heart,  
Then he I left for dead.  Jul. 
Prodigious accident! Where can it end?  Fer. 
I got safe home, where carefully concealed,  
I sought by Fabio's diligence to learn  
Who my slain Rival was, and what became  
Of my unhappy Mistress, and what course  
Don Pedro de Mendoza took to right  
The honour of his house.  Don Jul. 
You longed not more to know it then, than I  
Do now.  Don. Fer. 
All could be learned was this. That my Rival  
Whom I thought dead, was likely to recover,  
And that he was a stranger lately come  
Up to the Court, to follow some pretensions.  
His name he either learned not perfectly,  
Or did not well retain; As for Elvira,  
That none knew where she was, and that Don Pedro  
Had set a stop to prosecution  
In any public way, with what reserves  
Was not yet known.  Don Jul. 
More and more Intricate.  Don Fer. 
I must now come to that, you lest would look for.  
I had but few days past, in my Concealment  
(Resentment and Revenge still boiling in me)  
When late one evening, as I buried was  
In deepest thought, I suddenly was roused  
By a surprising Apparition, Julio,  
Elvira in my Chamber, speaking to me  
With rare assurance, Thus— Don Fernando  
I come not here to justify myself,  
That were below Elvira, towards one  
Whose action in deserting me hath shown  
So disobligingly, his rash judgement of me.  
I come to mind you of Honour, not of Love:  
Mine, can protection seek, from none but yours,  
I've hitherto been sheltered from the Fury  
Of my enraged Father, by my Cousin Camilla,  
But that's no place you easily may judge  
For longer stay, I do expect from you  
To be conveyed, where free from violence  
And from new hazards of my wounded Fame,  
I may attend my righting from the gods.  Don Jul. 
Can guilt maintain such confidence in a Maid?  
Yet how to think her Innocent, I know not.  Don. Fer. 
'Twere loss of time to dwell on circumstances,  
Either of my wonder, or reply; In short,  
What I found honour dictated, I did,  
Within two hours I put her in a Coach,  
And favoured by the night, conveyed her safe  
Out of Madrid to Ocana, and thence  
In three days, hither to Valencia,  
The only place where by your generous aid,  
I could have hopes to settle and secure  
Her Person and her honour: That once done  
Farewell to Spain; I'll to the Wars of Milan  
And there soon put a Noble end to cares.  Don Jul. 
Let us first think how to dispose of Her,  
Since here you say she is; That done which presses,  
You will have time to weigh all other things.  Don Fer. 
My thoughts can pitch upon no other way  
Decent or safe for her, but in a Convent,  
If you have any Abbess here to friend.  Don Jul. 
I have an Aunt, ruling the Ursulins,  
With whom I have full power, and she is wise,  
In case that course were to be fixed upon;  
But that's not my opinion.  Don Fer. 
What can your reason be?  Don Jul. 
Last remedios, in my judgement  
Are not to be used, till easier have been tried;  
Had this strange accident, been thoroughly  
Examined, in all its Circumstances,  
And that from thence, she were convicted guilty,  
Nought else were to be thought on, but a Cloister,  
But as things stand, imperfectly discovered  
Although appearances, condemn her strongly,  
I cannot yet conclude a person guilty  
Of what throughout so contradictory seems  
To the whole tenor of her former life,  
As well as to her Quality, and Wit,  
And therefore le's avoid precipitation.  
Let my house be her shelter for a while,  
You know my sister Blanca is discreet,  
And may be trusted, she shall there be served  
By her and me, with care and secrecy.  Don Fer. 
The offer's kind but no-wise practicable,  
And might prove Hazardous to Blanca's honour,  
When it should once break out, (as needs it must)  
From servants seeing such a Guest so treated.  Don Jul. 
That I confess I know not how to answer,  
But could Elvira's mind, submit unto it,  
I could propose a course without objection.  Don Fer. 
That she can soon resolve, What is it Julio?  Don Jul. 
A Gentlewoman who waited on my sister,  
Hath newly left her servise for a husband,  
And it is known, she means to take another,  
I have a ready way to recommend one,  
By Violante of whose love and mine  
You are not ignorant, since that e'er this  
We had been Married, had not kindred forced us  
To wait a Dispensation for't from Rome;  
Blanca I'm sure will readily embrace,  
Any occasion of obliging her.  Don Fer. 
That were a right expedient indeed,  
Could but Elvira's spirit brook it.  Enter Elvira as from the Closet. Elu. 
You have ill measures of Elvira's spirit,  
Mistaken Don Fernando: Till heaven's justice  
Shall her entirely to herself restore,  
The lowlyer shape, her fate shall hide her under  
The more 'twill fit her humour.  Julio starts back as it were amazed Don Julio, aside. 
O heavens can guilt with such perfection  
And put on such assurance! It cannot be. (dwell!  Don Julio addressing himself to her, and beginning. Don Jul. 
Madam!  She holding out her hand and interrupting him. Elu. 
Spare compliments, and let your actions speak,  
Those may oblige both him, and me, your words  
Cannot comply with both.  Julio aside, 
—— Did ever yet  
Such Majesty with misery combine!  
But in this Woman.  To her, 
——— Madam, I obey,  
And since you are pleased t'approve what I proposed,  
No moment shall be lost in th'execution.  Exit Julio. Fernando accompanying him and Fabio. Elvira Sola. 
O how unkindly have the heavens dealt  
With Woman kind, above all other creatures!  
Our pleasure, and our glory! to have placed  
All on the brink of Precipices, such,  
As every breath, can blow the least light of us  
Headlong into, past all hopes of Redemption:  
Nor can our wit, or virtue, give exemption.  
'Tis true I loved; But justified therein  
By spotless thoughts, and by the objects merit,  
I deemed myself above the reach of malice,  
When in an instant by another's folly,  
I am more lost than any by her own.  
Accurst Don Zancho, what occasion  
e'er gave Elvira to thy mad Intrusion?  
Unless disdain, and scorn, Incentives are,  
To make mens' passions more irregular.  
Ah, matchless Rigour, of the Powers above;  
Not only to submit our honour's fate,  
Unto the vanity of those we love,  
But to the rashness even of those we hate.  Exit. Enter Donna Blanca at one door reading a paper with great marks of Passion and Dissturbance, and her Waiting-woman Francisca at another, observing her. Blan. 
Ah, the Traitor!  Francis. Aside, 
— What can this mean?  Blan. continuing, 
Was this thy sweet Pretention at Madrid,  
Drawn out in length, and hindering thy return?  
Thy fair pretence, thou shouldst have said false man.  Fran. 
For love's sake Madam, what can move you thus?  Blan. 
For hates sake say, and for revenge Francisca,  
And so thou may'st persuade me to discover  
My shame unto thee; Read, read, that Letter:  
'Tis from your favourite Chichon.  Francisca takes the Letter and reads it. 
The Letter.  
MAdam, To make good my engagements of concealing nothing from you, during this absence of my Master; I am bound to tell you, that some ten days since, late at night, he was left for dead, run through the body by another unknown Gallant, in the Chamber of a famed Beauty of the Court. Whilst the danger continued, I thought it not fit to let you know either the accident, or the occasion; which now he is recovered and thinking of his return to Valencia I must no longer forbear, I hope you will have a care not to undo me for being more faithful to you, then to the Master you gave me,  
Your Creature Chichon.  Blan. 
Have I not a worthy Gallant think you!  Fran. 
Madam, this comes of being over curious,  
And gaining servants to betray their Masters;  
How quiet might you have slept, and never felt  
What past with your Don Zancho at Madrid!  
His pale and dismal looks, at his return  
Though caused by loss of blood, in the hot service  
Of other Dames, might fairly have been thought  
Effects of care, and want of sleep for you;  
And taken so, have past for new Indeerments.  
Who ever pried into another's Letter?  
Or slyly harkened to another's whisper?  
But saw, or heard, somewhat that did not please him;  
'Twas Eves curiosity, undid us all.  Blan. 
Away with thy moralities dull Creature,  
I'll make thee see, and false Don Zancho feel,  
That Blanca's not a Dame, to be so treated.  
But who are those I hear without, who e'er  
They be, they come at an unwelcome hour.  Fran. looks out. Fran. 
Madam, it is a Page of Violantes  
Ushering a handsome Maid.  Enter a Page with a Letter and Elvira, the Page presents the letter to Blanca, she addresses herself to Elvira, and she throws up her Veil. Blan. 
This Letter is in your behalf fair Maid,  Having read the Letter. 
There's no denying such a Recomender,  
But such a face as yours is, needed none.  
Page, tell your Lady as much; And you Silvia  Turning 
(For so she says you are called) be confident  
You're fallen into the hands of one, that knows  
How to be kind, more as your friend then Mistress,  
If your demeanour, and good nature, answer  
But what your looks do promise.  Elu. 
Madam, it is the Noble charity  By the name of Silvia 
Of those you cast upon me, not mine own,  
To which I must acknowledge any advantage  
I ever can pretend to, more than what  
Fair Violantes mediation gives me.  to Francisca Blan. 
she's strangely handsome, and how well she speaks.  Aside Fran. 
So, so, Methinks, you know new comers, Madam,  
Set still the best foot forward.  Blan. 
And know as well that you decaying Stagers  
Are always jealous of new comers, Young,  
And handsome.  Fran. 
You may be as sharp upon me, as you please,  
I know to what t'attribute your ill humour.  Blan. 
Francisca entertain her, I'll go write  
To Violante, and then rest a while  
In hopes to ease the headache that hath seized me;  
That done, sweet Silvia we shall talk at leisure.  Exit Blanca. Fran. 
Sweet Silvia, kind Epithets are for new faces.  Aside. Silu. 
Now comes the hard part of my task indeed,  Aside. 
To act the fellow Waiting-woman right.  
But since the Gods already have conformed  
My mind to my Condition, I do hope  
They'll teach me words, and gestures suitable.  Fran. embraces Silu. Fran. 
Let me embrace thee my sweet Sister, and beg you  
To be no Niggard of a little kindness:  
A very little serves with such a face,  
To gain what heart you please.  Silu. 
If it can help to gain me yours, I'll take it  
For the best office, that it ever did me,  
And love it much the better.  Fran. 
Make much on't then, for that 't has done already.  Silu. 
If you will have me vain enough to think it,  
You must confirm it, by the proof of being  
My kind Instructor how to please my Lady,  
For I am very raw in service.  Fran. 
—— O that  
I were so too, and had thy Youth t'excuse it;  
But my experience, sister, shall be yours,  
By free communication. Come, let's in  
And rest us in my Chamber, there I'll give you  
First handsel of the frankness of my Nature.  Exeunt Sil. & Fran. Enter Don Zancho and Chichon his man, in riding habit. Don Zan. 
I must confess Chichon the very smell  
Of sweet Valencia, has even revived my spirits.  
There is no such pleasure, as to suck and breathe  
One's Native air.  Chich. 
Chiefly after being in so fair a way  
As you, of never breathing any more.  Don. Zanc. 
Prithee no more of that, since I have forgot it,  
Methinks thou easily may'st.  Chich. 
Faith hardly Sir, whilst still your ghastly face  
Doth bear, such dismal Memorandums of it,  
Apter to raise inquisitiveness in those  
Know nothing of the matter, then t'allay  
Remembrance in Partakers.  Don Zanc. 
Heaven shield us from Donna Blanca's queries,  
No matter for the rest.  Chich. 
You would not wish to find her so unconcerned,  
I'm sure you would not; Faith, I long to hear  
Th'ingenious defeats, I make account  
You are prepared to give to her suspicions.  Don Zanch. 
Let me alone for that: but on thy life  
Be sure that nothing be screwed out of thee,  
Neither by her, nor by her sly Francisca.  Chich. 
Be you Sir, sure, that from your true Chichon,  
They'll know no more to day, than yesterday,  
They did, nor thence, more to the world's end,  
Than what they did, before we left Madrid.  Don Zanc. 
Truly Chichon, we needs must find the means  
To get a sight of her this very night;  
I die if I should miss it.  Chich. 
Last week left gasping for Elvira's love,  
And scarce revived, when presently expiring  
For Blanca's again; I did not think Don Cupid  
Had been a Merchant, of such quick returns.  Don Zanch. 
Thou art an Ass, and want'st distinctiveness  
Twixt love and love; that was a love of sport,  
To keep the serious one in breath.  Chich. 
Faith Sir, I must confess my ignorance,  
That when I saw you grovelling in your blood,  
I thought your Love had been in sober sadness.  Don Zanch. 
Prithee leave fooling, and let's carefully  
Gain the back way into my house unseen,  
That none may know of my return, till Blanca  
Find me at her feet: and be you industrious  
T'observe Julio's going forth this evening,  
Doubtless he'll keep his usual hours abroad  
At Violantes, since not married yet.  Chich. 
I shall observe your orders punctually.  Exeunt. Enter Don Julio and knocks as at Blanca's door. Don Jul. 
What Sister! at your Siesta already? if so  
You must have patience to be waked out of it,  
For I have news to tell you.  Enter Blanca. Blan. 
No Brother, I was much more pleasingly  
Employed, in serving you; that is, making  
My Court to Violante; by receiving  
To wait upon me in Lucilla's place,  
A Gentlewoman of her recomending.  Don. Jul. 
Where is she? let me see her.  Blan. 
——, 'Twere not safe,  
She is too handsome; You think now I jest;  
But without Raillery, she is so lovely,  
That were not Violante very assured  
Of her own Beauty, and the strong Ideas  
That still upholds within you, one might question  
Her wit, to have set her in her Gallant's way.  
But what's the news you mean!  Jul. 
That our dear friend and kinsman Don Fernando  
Is come to Town, and going for Italy:  
The secret of it, doth so much import him,  
It forced him to forbear alighting here,  
And lodging with us as he used to do;  
But yet he says, nothing shall hinder him  
From waiting on you in the dusk of th' evening:  
I hope you'll find wherewith to Regalar him.  Blan. 
As well as you have drained my Cabinets,  
Of late in presents to your Mistress, some  
Perfumes will yet be found, such as at Rome  
Itself, shall not disgrace Valencia.  Don Jul. 
I know your humour, and that the best present  
Can be given you, is to give you the occasion  
Of presenting; But I am come in now  
Only to advertise you, and must be gone;  
Yet not I hope without a sight of One  
So recommend, and commended so.  Blan. 
I should have thought you strangely changed in humour  
Should you have gone away so uncuriously.  Fran. 
Ho.  She knocks. Enter Francisca. Fran. 
— What please you Madam.  Blan. (to Jul.) 
Prithee tell Silvia I would speak with her.  Exit Fran. 
Well, clear your Eyes, and say I have no skill  
If she appears not t'ye exceeding handsome.  Enter Francisco with Silvia, Julio salutes her. D. Jul. 
Welcome fair Maid into this Family,  
Where whilst you take a servants name upon you  
To do my Sister honour, you must allow  
Its Master to be yours, and that by strongest Ties  
Knowing who placed you here, and having Eyes.  Silu. 
I wish my service Sir, to her and you,  
May merit such a happy Introduction.  D. Jul. 
Farewell Sister, till anon, Accompanied  
As now you are, I think you'll miss me little.  Exit Julio. Blan. 
I must confess I ne'er could better spare you  Aside. 
Then at this time, but not for any reason  
That you I hope can guests at.  
Francisca, you and Silvia may retire (To them.  Exeunt Silvia and Francisca. 
And entertain yourselves; I'll to my Closet  
And try to rest.  
— Or rather to vent freely  
My restless thoughts. O the self-torturing part!  Aside. 
To force complaisance from a jealous heart.  Exeunt.  

ACT. II.  SCENE changes to the Room in the Inn. Enter Don Julio, and Don Fernando. Don Jul. 
ALbricias friend, for the good news I bring you,  
All has fallen out as well as we could wish.  
As to Elvira's settling with my Sister,  
So lucky a success, in our first aims  
Concerning her, I trust does bode good fortune  
Beyond our hopes; yet, in the further progress  
Of this Affair.  Don Fer. 
There's no such thing in Nature left as better,  
Julio, The worst proves always always true with me,  
Yet prithee tell, how does that Noble beauty  
(Wherein high Quality is so richly stamped)  
Comport her servile Metamorphosis.  D. Jul. 
As one, whose body, as Divine as 'tis,  
Seems bound to obey exactly such a mind,  
And gently take, what ere shape that imposes.  D. Fer. 
Ah, let us mention her no more, my Julio  
Ideas flow upon me too abstracted  
From her unfaithfulness, and may corrupt  
The firmest reason; Above all be sure  
I do not see her so transformed, lest that  
Transform me too, I'll rather pass with Blanca,  
Both for unkind and rude, And leave Valencia  
Without seeing her.  D. Jul. 
— Leave that to me Fernando,  
But if you intent the honour to my Sister  
It will be time, the night draws on a pace.  Fer. 
Come let's be gone then,  As they are going out, Enter Fabio hastily. Fab. 
Stay Sir, for heaven's sake stay  D. Fer. 
— Why what's the matter?  Fab. 
That will surprise you both, as much me  
Don Pedro de Mendoca is below  
Newly alighted.  D. Fer. 
— Ha, what sayst thou Sirrah?  
Elvira's father?  Fab. 
— Sir, the very same,  
And he had scarcely set one foot to ground  
When he inquired, where lives Don Julio Rocca?  D. Jul. 
For my house Fabio? It cannot be,  
I never knew the man.  D. Fer. 
The thing does speak itself, and my hard fate  
What else can bring him hither, but pursuit  
Of me, and of his Daughter, having learned  
The way we took; And what so easy Julio  
Here at Valencia, as to know our friendship  
And then of consequence, your house to be  
My likeliest retreat.  D. Jul. 
— 'Tis surely so,  
Let us apply our thoughts to best preventives.  D. Fer. 
Whilst we retire into the inner Room  
T'advise together, Fabio be you sure  
(Since unknown to him) to observe his motions.  Exeunt omnes. Scene changes to the Prospects of Valencia. Enter Don Zancho and Chichon as in the street near Don Julio's house. D. Zanc. 
— Newly gone out say you?  
That is as luckey as we could have wished,  
And see but how invitingly the door  
Stands open still.  Chich. 
An open door may lead to a face of wood,  Aside To Don Zancho. 
But mean you Sir, to go abruptly in  
Without more ceremony  D. Zanc. 
Surprise redoubles (sool) the joys of Lovers;  
But stay Chichon let's walk aside a while  
Till yonder Coach be past.  Exeunt. Scene changes to the Room in the Inn. Enter Don Julio and Don Fernando. D. Jul. 
There is no safety in any other way,  
You must not stir from hence, until we've got  
Some further light, what course he means to steer,  
Let Fabio be vigllant, I'll get home,  
Down that back stairs, and take such order there  
Not to be found, in case he come to inquire,  
As for this Night at least, shall break his measures,  
And in the morning w'eel resolve together  
Whether you ought, to quit Valencia or no.  D. Fer. 
Farewell then for to night, I'll be alerte,  
But see y'excuse me fairly to my Cozen.  Exeunt. Scene changes to Blanca's Antechamber. Enter Donna Blanca and Francisca. D. Blan. 
As well as Silvia pleases me Francisca,  
I'm glad at present that she is not well,  
She would constrain me else, she has wit enough  
To descant on my humour, and from thence  
To make perhaps discoveries, not fit  
For such new Comers.  Fran. 
If she has wit she keeps it to herself,  
At least from me, of pride, and Melancholy  
I see good store.  D. Blan. 
— Still envious and detracting?  Enter Don Zancho and Chichon. 
See who comes there Madam, to stop your mouth.  Donna Blanca casting an Eye that way, and Chichon clinging up close behind his Master and making a mouth. Chic. 
S'has' spied us, and it thickens in the clear,  
I fear a storm, 
* To his Master.  Goes not your heart pit a pat?  D. Blan. 
Ah, the bold Traitor! But I must dissemble,  Aside. 
And give his impudence a little Line,  
The better to confound him.  Donna Blanca advancing to him, and as it were embracing him with an affected cheerfulness. D. Blan. 
Welcome, as unexpected, my D. Zancho.  D. Zanc. 
Nay, than we are safe Chichon.  Aside to Chichon. 
Incomparable Maid, heaven bless those Eyes,  to Her. 
From which I find a new life springing in me;  
Having so long been banished, from their Rays,  
How dark the Court appeared to me without them?  
Could it have kept me from their Influence,  
As from their light, I had expired long since.  D. Blan. 
Y'express your love now, in so courtly a Style  
I Fear you have acted it in earnest there,  
And but rehearse, to me, your Country Mistress.  Don Zanc. 
Ah, let Chichon but tell you, how he hath seen me  
During my absence from you.  Chic. 
I vow I have seen him even dead for Love,  
You might have found it in his very looks,  
Before you brought the blood into his Cheeks.  D. Blan. 
E'en dead you say for Love, but say of whom?  Don Zanc. 
Can Blanca ask a question so Injurious?  
As well to her own perfections, as my Faith.  Don. Blan. 
I can hold no longer.  Aside to Francisca. 
My faithful Lover, than it is not you.  To him scornfully. Chic. 
She changes tone I like not faith the Key,  Aside to his Master. 
The music will be jarring.  Blan. [continues.] 
'Tis not then you, Don Zancho, who having changed  
His suit at Court, into a love Pretention,  
And his Concurrents, into a Gallant Rival,  
Fell by his hand, a bloody Sacrifice  
At his fair Mistress feet, Who was it then?  Don Zancho stands a while as amazed with folded Arms. Chichon behind his Master holding up his hands and making a pitiful face, Francisca steals to him, and holding up her hand threateningly. Fran. 
A Blab Chichon, a Pickthank, Peaching Varlet  Aside 
ne'er think to look me in the face again.  To Chichon. Chic. 
In what part shall I look thee, hast thou a worse?  Aside 
It is the Devil has discovered it,  To Fran. 
Some Witch dwells here, I've long suspected thee.  Fran. 
I never more shall think thee worth my Charms.  D. Blan. 
What, struck dumb with guilt? Perfidious Man  
That, happens most, to the most impudent  
When once detected; Well, get thee hence,  
And see thou ne'er presum'st to come again  
Within these Walls, or I shall let thee see  
'Tis not at Court alone, where hands are found,  
To let such mad men blood.  She turns as going away, and Don Zancho holds her gently by the Gown. Don Zancho. 
Give me but hearing, Madam, and then if—  Don Jul. 
What ho, no lights below stairs?  Aloud as below. Fran. 
O heavens, Madam, here you not your Brother,  
Into the Chamber quickly, and let them  
Retire behind that hanging, there's a place  
Where usually we throw neglected things.  
I'll take the lights, and meet him certainly  
His stay will not be long from Violante  
At this time of the Night; besides you know,  
He never was suspicious.  Don Zancho and Chichon go behind the hanging, and Donna Blanca retiring to her Chamber says. D. Blan. 
Capricious fate, must I who whilst I loved him  
ne'er met with checking Accident, fall now  
Into extremest hazards, for a man  
Whom I begin to hate.  Exit. And Francisca at another door with the lights. Francisca reenters with Don Julio. D. Jul. 
Where's my Sister?  Fran. 
— In her Chamber, Sir,  
Not very well, she's taken with a Megrim.  D. Jul. 
Light me In to her.  Exit Don Julio, Francisca lighting him with one of the lights. Chichon peeping out from behind the hanging. Chic. 
If this be Cupid's Prison, 'tis no sweet one,  
Here are no chains of Roses, Yet I think  
Y' had rather b'ined, then in Elvira's chamber  
As gay, and as perfumed as 'twas.  D. Zan. 
Hold your peace Puppy, is this a time for fooling?  Enter Francisca and Chichon start's back. Francisca coming to the hanging. 
Chichon look out, you may, the Coast is clear.  Chichon looks out. 
Could I my Lady's near concerns but fever,  
From yours in this occasion, both of you  
Should dearly pay your falsehood.  Cich. 
You are jealous too, I see, but help us out  
This once, and if you catch me here again,  
Let Chichon pay for all, faithful Chichon.  Fran. 
You're both too lucky, in the likelihood  
Of getting off so soon, stay but a moment  
Whilst I go down to set the Wicket open,  
And see that there be no body in the way.  Exit Francisca. Chich. 
It is a cunning Drab, and knows her trade.  Re-enter Francisca and comes to the hanging. Fran. 
There's now some Witch a wing indeed Chichon,  
Julio, that never till this night, forbore  
To go to Violantes ere he slept,  
And pass some hours there, Julio who never  
Inquired after the shutting of a door,  
Hath locked the Gate himself, at's coming In,  
And bid a servant wait below till midnight,  
With charge to say, to any that should knock  
And ask for him, that he's gone sick to bed;  
What it can mean I know not.  Chic. 
I would I did not, but, I have too true  
An Almanac in my bones, foretells a beating  
Farneze surer than fowl weather, he has us faith  
Fast in Lobb's Pound; Heaven send him a light hand,  
To whom my fustigation shall belong,  
As for my Master, he may have the Honour  
To be rebuked at sharp.  Fran. 
May terror rack this Varlit; But for you Sir,  
Be not dismayed, the hazard's not so great,  
Yonder Balcon at further end o'the ' Room  
Opens into the Street, and the descent, is  
Little beyond your height, hung by the Arms:  
When Julio is asleep, I shall not fail  
To come and let you out, I keep the Key,  
In the mean while you must have patience.  Chic. 
It were a nasty hole to stay in long,  Aside. 
Did not my fear correct it's evil savour.  
Dame, you say well for him, with whom I think  To her. 
You've measured length, you speak so punctually  
Of his dimensions; But I see no care  
For me, your pretty, not your proper man,  
Who does abhor feats of activity.  Fran. 
I'll help, you, with a halter.  Exit Francisca and (Chichon retires. Scene changes to Blanca's Bedchamber. Enter Blanca, Silvia, and soon after Francisca as in Blanca's Chamber she sitting at her Toylet undressing. Blan. 
My Brother told me I should see him again,  
Before he went to rest.  Fran. 
I think, I hear him coming.  Blanca to Francisca. 
he'll not stay long I hope, for I am on thorns  
Till I know they are out, I'th' mean while  
We must persuade Silvia to go to bed,  
Lest some odd chance should raise suspicion in her  
Before I know her fitness for such trusts.  Enter Don Julio. Silvia offers to unpin her Gorget. D Blan. 
I prithee Silvia, leave, and get thee gone  
To Bed, you han't been well, nor are not yet;  
Your heavy Eyes betray indisposition:  D. Sil. 
Good Madam, suffer me, 'twill make me well  
To do you service.  Blan. [to D. Julio.] 
— Brother, I ask your help,  
Take Silvia hence, and see her in her Chamber,  
This night she must be treated as a stranger,  
And you must do the honour of your house.  Julio goes to Silvia, and taking her by the hand leads her away. Sil. [making a low curtsy.] 
Since you'll not yet let me begin to serve,  
I will begin to obey.  Fran. [bridling.] 
Acquaint in good faith.  D. Jul. [to Silvia as he leads her.] 
My Sister's kinder than she thinks, to give me  
This opportunity of telling Silvia.  
How absolutely Mistress in this place  
Elvira is.  Francisca whispers all this while with Blanca. Silu. 
Good Sir, forget that Name.  Exeunt Julio and Silvia. D. Blan. 
If that be so, what shall we do Francisca?  
What way to get them out?  Fran. 
It is a thing so unusual with him,  
It raises ominous thoughts, Else I make sure  
To get them off, as well as you can wish,  
But if already awakened by suspicion,  
Nothing can then be sure.  D. Blan. 
O fear not that what you have seen him do  
Of unaccustomed, I dare say relates  
To quite another business.  Fran. 
Then set your heart at rest, from all disturbance  
Arising from this accident.  D. Blan. 
— If you are certain,  
To get them off so clear, from observation,  
'Twill out of doubt be best, I tell my Brother  
Don Zancho is returned, and had called here  
This evening to have seen him, For my fears  
Sprang only from the hour, and the surprise,  
Warmed as he then had found me, since you know  
How little apt he is to jealousy.  Fran. 
Madam, You've reason, that will make all sure,  
In case he should be told of's being here  
The time of's stay, can hardly have been noted.  Enter Don Julio. D. Jul. 
As an obedient Brother I have performed  
What you commanded me.  D. Blan. 
A hard Injunction from a cruel Sister,  
To wait upon a handsome Maid to her Chamber.  D. Jul. 
You see I've not abused your Indulgence  
By staying long, nor can I stay indeed  
With you, I must be abroad so early  
To morrow morning, therefore Dear good night.  Donna Blanca [as he is going.] 
Stay Brother, stay, I had forgot to tell you  
Don Zancho de Menezes is returned  
And called this evening here, t'have kiss'st your hands,  
Francisca spoke with him.  D. Jul. 
I hope he's come successful in his suit,  
To morrow I'll go see him,  Exit D. Julio. D. Blan. 
You see he's free from Ombrage on that Subject.  Fran. 
I see all's well, and may he sleep profoundly,  
The sooner Madam, you are a bed, the better.  D. Blan. 
Would once my fears were over, that my Rage  
Might have its course.  Fran. 
— I shall not stop it,  
But after it has had its full Career,  
'Twill pause I hope, and reason find an Ear.  Exeunt. Scene changes to the Room in the Inn. Enter Don Fernando and Fabio. D. Fer. 
Is he gone out?  Fab. 
— No Sir, not as yet,  
But seeing the servant he had sent abroad  
Newly returned, I listened at his door,  
And heard him plainly give him this account.  
That he had found Don Julio Rocca's house,  
And having knocked a good while at the door,  
Answer was made him without opening it,  
Don Julio's not at home, where at Don Pedro  
Impatient rose, and calling for his Cloak  
And Sword, he swore he'd rather wait himself  
Till midnight at his door, then loose a night  
In such a pressing business; This I thought  
Fit to acquaint you with, and that he spoke  
Doubtfully of his returning to lodge here.  D. Fer. 
You have done well, but must do better yet  
In following him, and being sure to lose  
No circumstance of what he does.  Fab. 
To dog him, possibly might be observed  
This Moon light, by his servant, but since Sir,  
We're certain whether he goes, my best course  
I think will be to go out the back way,  
And place myself before hand in some Porch,  
Near Julio's house, where I may see and hear  
What passes, and then do as I shall see cause.  D. Fer. 
'Tis not ill thought on, but how late soever  
Your return be, I shall expect to see you  
Before we go to bed.  Fab. 
— I shall not fail.  Exeunt. Scene changes to Donna Blanca's Ante-Chamber. Enter Francisca and goes to the hanging where Don Zancho and Chichon are hid. Fran. 
Ho, trusty servant with his faithful Master,  
Come out, the Balcone's open, lose no time,  
Julio's a bed, and fast a sleep ere this,  
There's no body in'the street, it is so light  
One may discover a mile, therefore be quick.  Scene changes to the Prospect of Valencia. Don Zancho and Chichon come out from behind the hanging and follow her as leading them to the Balcone. Exeunt. Enter Fabio as in the street, and settling himself in a Porch. And soon after Don Zancho and Chichon appear as in the Balcone, and Francisca's head as peeping out of the door into it. Fab. 
Here is a Porch as if 'twere built on purpose.  Fabio looking up perceives them in the Balcone. 
Ha, here's a vision that I little dreamt of,  
Stand close Fabio, and Mumm.  Don Zancho gets over the Balcone, and letting himself down at Arms and, leaps gently into the Street, Chichon offers at the like, but takes a fall as he lights, and rising counterfeits lameness. Francisca retires and locks the Balcone. Chic. 
Curse on the Drab, I think I've broke my leg.  Fab. 
The Moon has turned my brains, or I've seen  
That person some where, and that very lately.  He pawses scratching his head. 
But sure I'm mad, tothink it can be he.  Enter Don Pedro and Fulvio. Exeunt Don Zancho and Chichon as turning down the next Street. Fabio [retiring into the Porch.] 
O now I see my men.  D. Ped. 
This is the Street you say; which is the house?  Fulu. 
That fair one over against the Monastery;  
Shall I go knock?  D. Ped. 
— What else?  Fulvio knocks as at Don Julio's door, and no body answers. D. P. 
Knock harder.  He knocks again, and one asks as from within who's there. D. Ped. 
A stranger, who must needs speak with Don Julio.  
Although unknown to him, my business presses.  

* [From  Who e'er you be, and what so ere your business,  
You must have patience till to morrow Sir,  within. 
Don Julio went sick to bed, and I dare not  
Wake him.  D. Ped. 
Fortune takes pleasure sure, in disappointing,  
When men are pressed with most impatience,  
But since there is no remedy, guide Fulvio,  
Unto the lodging you've provided for me,  
I hope 'tis ne'er at hand.  Fulu. 
Not above three doors from Don Julio's  

* [Pointing.  There where it makes the corner of the Street.  Fabio [stealing after them] 
Here I must follow till I've harboured them.  Exeunt. Scene changes to the Room in the Inn. Enter Don Fernando alone as in his Chamber. D. Fer. 
It cannot now be long, ere Fabio come,  
And 'twere in vain to go to bed before,  
For rest I'm sure I should nor.  He walks about the Room pensively. 
Ah, my Elvira, [Mine?] thou dost infect  
My very words with falsehood when I name thee:  
Did ever Mistress make a Lover pay  
So dear as I, for the short bliss she gave?  
What now I suffer in exchange of that,  
May make mankind, a feared of joys excessive  
But here he comes.  Enter Fabio. 
— 
* (To Fabio.  Have you learned any thing,  
That's worth the knowing?  Fab. 
Two things, I think considerable Sir;  
The one, that Julio hath found means to gain  
This night to cast your business in, without  
Admitting of Don Pedro, whose pressures  
Might have been troublesome, And urged you  
To hasty resolutions, whereas now  
You've time to take your measures. The other Sir,  
Is, that Don Pedro lodges here no more,  
And consequently hath eased you of constraint  
Whilst you rest here, and left the way more free,  
For intercourse betwixt Don Julio and you,  
This more I must observe t'ee, that Don Pedro  
Took special care to have his lodging near  
Don Julio's house, whereby 'tis evident,  
That there he makes account his business lies.  D. Fer. 
The news you bring me, hath been worth your pains  
And thanks t'ee fort, I suppose that is all.  Fer. 
Say Fabio, what is't?  Fab. 
— Pray, Sir, allow me  
This night to think, whether it be fit or no  
To tell it you, since 'tis a thing relates not  
As I conceive to you, nor to your business,  
And yet in the concernments of another  
May trouble you.  Fer. 
Be not overwise, I prithee, I will know  
What 'tis, since you have raised curiosity  
By such Grimastos.  Fab. 
You must be obeyed, but pray remember Sir,  
If afterwards I'm called fool, for my pains,  
Who made me so, but since I do not only  
Expect the fool, but ready to be thought  
A madman too, ere I have done my story  
In this I will be wilful, not to tell it  
T'ill you're a bed, that I may run away  
So if you long to here it hasten thither.  Exit Fabio as to the Chamber within. D. Fer. 
Content i'faith, you ask no great compliance.  Exeunt. Scene changes to the Room in Don Zancho's house. Enter Don Zancho, And Chichon as at home halting. D. Zan. 
We're well come off from danger, would we were it  
But half as well, from Blanca's jealousy.  Chic. 
Speak for yourself, I never came off worse,  
Apox upon your Venery, it has made me  
Another Vulcan.  He halts about grumbling. D. Zanc. 
Go rest, to night, or grumble, as you please,  
But do not think, limping shall serve your turn  
To morrow, faith I'll make you stir your stumps,  
Think you a Lover of my temper likely  
To sit down by it so?  Chic. 
I'm sure I am only sit to sit down by it,  
Since I can hardly stand.  He makes as if he would sit down, and Don Zancho giving him a kick in the britch. D. Zanc. 
Coxcomb come away.  Chic. 
To nights, to night, to morrow's a new day.  Exeunt.  

ACT. III.  Enter Don Fernando and Fabio. As in the Room in the Inn. D. Fer. 
ARe all things ready Tabio? in case  
Don Julio when he comes conclude with me  
That I should begone presently.  Tab. 
Horses stand ready for you at the Posthouse.  Fer. 
'Tis well, attend without.  Exit Tabio Enter Don Julio. To Jul. 
I see you sleep not in your friends concerns,  
You are so early, and since so, the sooner  
We fix a Resolution, certainly,  
'Twill be the better, 'Twas no small Point gained,  
To frustrate for a night Don Pedro's aims,  
As Fabio tells me you have done, for he  
ne'er quitted him an inch last night, until  
He had harboured him.  Jul. 
What, has he left his lodging?  Fer. 
— That he has,  
And which is more considerable taken one  
Close by your house, which evidences clearly  
Where his suspicions lie; That being so,  
I'm confident, you'll be of my opinion  
For my dislodging from Valencia  
Immediately, For Elvira being  
Already so well settled, nothing can  
So much endanger her discovery,  
As my remaining longer in these parts.  Jul. 
W'ere I but free as yesterday Fernando,  
To think of nothing but Elvira and your  
Concernments, I must confess your absence  
From hence were to be wished, but Cousin  
there's fallen out this very night, a thing,  
Which shows how little I beholding am  
To fortune, That having so newly lent me  
The means of serving handsomely my friend,  
Calls back the debt already, and makes me  
As needing of your aid, as you of mine.  Fer. 
Ho, Fabio forbid the horses presently.  Fabio looks in. To Jul. 
The least appearance Julio of my being  
Useful to you, by staying, puts an end  
To all deliberation, for myself,  
Say, what's the accident? You have me ready.  Jul. 
Such, and of such a nature, my Fernando,  
That as to be communicated to none  
But you, another self, so I am sure  
It will astonish you with the Surprisal.  
Ah! could you think it possible? that Blanca,  
Should raise disturbance in the heart of Julio,  
As to the honour of his Family.  Fer. 
Heavens forbid.  Jul. 
Never was Brother so secure as'I,  
Or so unalterable in his persuasion  
Of having a Sister, of unmatched discretion,  
Nor e'er, could less, than evidence itself,  
Have shaken such a confidence.  Fer. 
— For God's sake Julio,  
Hold me no longer in such pain of mind;  
But sure we shall be better there within,  
Free from the noise of the Street.  Jul. 
You say well.  Exit Julio. Fernando [as he follows him Aside.] 
This is what Fabio told me he saw last night,  
Discovered by some accident to Julio,  
It can be nothing else, O Women! Women!  Exit Fernando. Enter Don Pedro and Fulvio, As in their new lodgings. Don Ped. 
I am glad you have lighted on so fit a place,  
For all intent, as this is, Fulvio,  
I shall repair the last night's disappointment  
By early care this morning, In the mean while,  
Fail not of your part in the discovery  
Where my Enemy dwells, and i'th' observation,  
Of all his motion's, That's th' important part.  Ful. 
Rely, Sir, on my care and Vigilance.  Exeunt Don Pedro and Fulvio. Enter Don Julio and Don Fernando, As in the outward Room of the Inn. Jul. 
— It is a Quarter,  
Always reserved to my own privacy,  
There lying unsuspected, if whilst I  
Continue late abroad under pretence  
Of being at Violantes, You keep watch  
Carefully within, he cannot scape us  
So you be sure t'observe punctually  
The sign agreed, and bolting of the doors,  
When he is once within.  Fer. 
Since you have so resolved and laid your business,  
Dispose of me, and lead the way, whilst I  
Give Fabio his instructions what to do  
During my absence.  Exeunt Fernando and Julio. Enter Dona Blanca and Francisca As in Blanca's Ant Chamber. Fran. 
Since the black Cloud, that threatened you last night  
With such a storm, is luckily blown over,  
Without a sprinkling; I hope Madam, you  
Will imitate the fates, and grow Serene,  
From all those Clouds which so much threatened others.  Blan. 
Ah! Francisca canst thou—  She stops seeing Silvia coming. Enter Silvia with a fine Basin of Flowers. Aside 
—— But here's Silvia,  
O the sharp thorns, she brings me at this time  
With Flowers in her hand, by the Constraint  
Her presence gives me.  Sil. 
Madam, I wish the ranging of these Flowers  
May be to your mind; but alas I fear  
I am too dull for works of Fancy.  Blan. 
'Tis me you find too dull to relish them,  Dryly. 
Anon they may be wellcomer.  Sil. 
I'll wait that happy hour,  
—— She's in ill humour.  Aside. Exit Silvia. Blan. 
But tell me now, didst ever see Francisca,  
So false and bold a Creature? The Impudence  
He had to clothe his Treachery with new Courtships,  
Provokes me most of all.  Fran. 
Last night indeed, incensed as you were, Madam,  
I fain would know what air so soft and Gentle  
He could have breathed, would not have blown the flame  
Higher and Higher! but me thinks your Pillow  
Should in so many hours have had some power  
T'allay and mollify; I then complied  
(He present) with your anger, but now, Madam,  
You must allow me to speak reason t'ee,  
In his behalf, before you go too far,  
And put things, in your passion, past Recall,  
Which that once over, you would give your life,  
To have again.  Blan. 
— Pray think me not so tame.  Fran. 
So tame say you? I think you willed I swear.  
To take so much to heart, what at the most  
Deserves but some such sparkling brisk resentment,  
As once flashed out, in a few Choleric words,  
Ought to expire, in a next Visits Coyness.  Blan. 
Make you so slight of Infidelity?  Fran. 
Cupid forbid; I'd have men true to Love.  
But, I'd have women too, true to themselves,  
And not rebuke their Gallants, by requiring  
More than the nature of frail flesh will bear.  
I'd have men true as steel; but steel you know  
(The purest and best polished steel) will ply,  
Urged from its Rectitude, (forsooth) But then  
With a smart spring, come to its place again.  Blan. 
Come leave your fooling, and speak soberly.  Fran. 
Why then in sober sadness, you're in the wrong,  
I do not say, in being angry with him,  
And nettled at the thing, That's Natural,  
We love no Partners, even in what we know  
We cannot keep all to ourselves; But, Madam,  
To think the worse of him for it, or resolve  
A breach of friendship for a slight excursion,  
That were a greater fault than his, who has  
For one excuse, long absence; And in truth  
Another, you'd be sorry he wanted, youth.  Blan. 
You talk as if—  (Francisca interrupting her. Fran. 
— Stay Madam I beseech you.  
And let me make an end, I have not yet  
Touched the main point in his excuse, A Sure  
At Court, enough I trow for any dog trick.  Blan. 
How like a Goose you talk, A Court protension,  
What has that to do one way or other  
With his faith to me?  Fran. 
So, one displeased to find his Crasishes,  
Shrivelled within, and empty, said to his Cook,  
(Who laid the fault upon the Wane o'th' Moon,)  
What has the Moon, to do with Crasishes?  
Marry she has, 'tis she that governs shell Fish,  
And 'tis as true, in Courts, that love rules business  
By as Preposterous an Influence.  Blan. 
I prithee make an end, or come to the Point.  Fran. 
Why then I'll tell you, and you may believe me,  
(Having been trained up in my youth you know,  
In the best School, to learn Court Mysteries;  
An Aunt of mine being Mother of the Maids.)  
Love holds the Rudder, and Steers all in Courts;  
How oft, when great Affairs perplexed the Brains  
Of mighty Politicians, to conjecture,  
From whence sprung such designs, such revolutions,  
Such Exaltations, Madam, such depressions,  
Against the Rules of their Mysterious Art,  
And when, as in suprising works of Nature  
Reason confounded, Men cry those are secrets  
Of the high Powers above, that govern all,  
Grave lookers on, stroking their beards would say,  
What a transcendent fetch of State is this;  
These are the things, that wisdom hides and hatches,  
Under black Cap of weighty jobbernole  
I mean Count Olivarez, All the while  
We female Macchiavels, would smile to think,  
How closely lurking lay the Nick of all,  
Under our Daughter Doll's white Petticoat.  Blan. 
All this I grant you, may be true; And yet  
Ne'er make a jot, for his excuse; Francisca  
His suit, had no Relation to such matters.  Fran. 
What e'er the thing be, 'tis all one, D''ee think,  
Suits be they what they will, can be obtained  
By such as pass for Fops, as all young men  
Without a Mistress or a Confidence  
Are sure to do there; A sharp pointed Hat,  
(Now that you see the Gallants all Flat headed,)  
Appears not so ridiculous, as Younker,  
Without a love Intreegue, to Introduce,  
And sparkefy him there; Madam, in short,  
Allow me once to be Sententious;  
It is a thing, that always was, and is,  
And ever will be, true, to the world's end;  
That, as in Courts of Justice, none can Carry  
On business well, without a Procurator,  
So none in Princes Courts, their Suits make surer,  
Than those that work them, by the best Procurer.  Blanca 
Well, haste, adone Francisca?  [Smiling a little.] Fran. 
— Madam, I have.  D. Blan. 
— Then letting pass,  
Thy fine reflections Politic now vented,  
To show thy skill in Courts, I'll tell thee freely,  
I'm not transported in my jealousy  
So far, beyond the bounds of Reason, as  
Not to know well, the difference, betwixt  
Such Escapades of youth, as only spring  
From warmth of blood, or Gales of Vanity,  
And such engagements, as do carry with them  
Dishonour unto those, whose quality,  
And love have little to the serious Part,  
Once Embarked by them, in a Gallentry.  Fran. 
I see the Clouds disperse, there's no such Art,  Aside. 
Of compassing one's ends, with those above us,  
As that of working them into good humour,  
By things brought in by the by,  
Why surely, Madam, unless anger lend you  To her. 
It's spectacles, to see things, I cannot think  
You judge Don Zancho's fault to be any other,  
Then of the first kind; so well stated by you.  Blan. 
Francisca, were I otherwise persuaded,  
I am not of an humour that could suffer  
Such Parleys for him, much less Intercession;  
But since upon reflection, I find cause  
To think what he has done A sally only,  
Of Youth and Vanity, when I shall find him  
Sufficiently mortified, I may pardon him.  Fran. 
Heavens bless so sweet a temper, But Madam,  
Have a care I beseech you of one thing.  Blan. 
What's that?  Fran. 
— That whilst your pride of heart  
Prolongs his readmission, his despair  
Urge him not to some precipitate attempt,  
That may expose your honour, safe as yet;  
You see what danger the last night's distemper  
Had like t'have brought you into; Transported Lovers,  
Like Angels fallen from their bliss grow Devils.  D. Blan. 
What would you have me appear so flexible?  
—— ist not enough  
I tell you I may pardon him in due time?  Fran. 
Good Madam, be advised I do not press you  
For his sake, but your own, Trust my experience,  
To women nought's so fatal as suspense;  
Whose smartest actions, ne'er did cast such Blot,  
On honour, as this, shall I? shall I not?  D. Blan. 
I'd rather die, then have him think me Easie.  Fran. 
Your spirit, never can be liable  
To that suspicion, Madam leave to me  
The conduct of this matter, I beseech you,  
If e'er you sleep, you do not see the Gallant  
Sufficiently humbled at your feet,  
ne'er trust Francisca more.  D. Blan. 
You are so troublesome, do what you will.  Blanca turns away and Exit as into her Closet. Fran. 
— What gone away?  
I'll do what she would have, but dares not say.  Enter Don Julio and Silvia as in Blanca's Chamber. Don Julio [looking about him.] 
Where is my Sister Silvia?  Silu. 
—— In her Closet, Sir,  
As yet not ready.  Jul. 
—— And where's Francisca?  Silu. 
She's with her, dressing her.  D. Jul. 
— Why then Elvira,  
Let me not Lose this opportunity,  
Of telling you, how sad a man I am.  
To see you in this posture, and to assure you  
How gladly I would lay down life, and fortune,  
To serve you in Don Fernando's absence.  Silu. 
Your generosity I make no doubt of:  
But is Fernando gone?  D. Jul. 
— I cannot say,  
That he is gone, for he was not himself,  
With the thought of leaving you, And yet less  
Himself, when e'er he thought of staying near you,  
Tortured by two such contrary passions,  
As love, and sharp resentment.  Silu. [Putting her Handkerchief to her Eyes.] 
He is gone then?  She pawses. 
—— Ah! generous Don Julio?  
You needs must be Indulgent, to a weakness  
Which whilst that he was present Indignation,  
And a just Sense of what I am, had power  
To keep within myself, but now I find  
That check removed, Nature will have its tribute,  
And you must pardon my withdrawing, where  She weeps. 
Such grief, may pay it, with unwitnessed tears.  Exit Silvia. Jul. 
Can a demeanour, so composed, so Noble,  
And yet so tender, want true Innocence?  
It cannot be, It grieves my heart I swear,  
T'have given her new affliction, but the Secret  
Of Don Fernando's close concealment here  
Is so important, it necessitated  
My saying what I did, since secrets are  
E'ver kept best, by those that know them least.  Enter Blanca and Francisca. Jul. [To her] 
Now high dissimulation, play thy Part.  
Good Morrow Sister have you rested well?  
And do you rise Serene, as does the Sun,  
Free from distemper, as the day from Clouds,  
Your looks persuade it me, they are so clear,  
And fresh this morning.  Blan. 
The pleasure of seeing you, putteth life into them,  
Else they'd be dull enough, this ugly Headache  
Having tormented me all night, you might  
Have heard me call Francisca up at midnight,  Fran. 
That was well thought on, for 'tis possible  Aside. 
He may have heard some Noise.  Jul. 
— How cunning she's!  Aside. 
Faith now you put me in mind of it I think  
Twixt sleep and waking, I once heard some stirring.  Blan. 
The worst of my indispotion is,  
That 'twill I fear hinder me again, to day,  
From visiting Violante, to thank her  
For Silvia.  Jul. 
I charge myself with all your Compliments,  
For this whole afternoon till late at night  
I needs must pass with her, to make amends  
For yesterday failings, caused as you know  
By Don Fernando's being in Town.  Blan. 
I must not hope to see you then again  
To day, when once gone out.  Jul. 
Hardly, unless to wait on Violante  
In case she come to see you, as 'tis likely,  
When I shall tell her, you are indisposed;  
And so farewell.  Exit Julio Blan. 
All's well I see Francisca as to him,  
I wish my heart, were but as much at rest  
In what concerns Don Zancho.  Fran. 
— It shall be  
Your own fault, if it be not quickly so,  
As I'll order the matter.  Blan. 
Take heed, you make him not grow insolent  
By discovering to him my facility.  Fran. 
I'm too well versed, to need instructions.  Blan. 
I leave all t'ee, But how does Silvia  
This morning?  Fran. 
— I think she has been crying  
She looks so dull and moped.  Blan. 
I'll in and see her.  Exeunt. Scene Changes to Don Zancho's house. Enter Don Zancho and Chichon limping. Don Zan. 
What not yet gone, thou lazy trifling Rascal?  Chic. 
What juster excuse Sir, for not going  
Then is a broken Leg?  D. Zanc. 
If you find not your own Leg quickly Sirrah,  
I shall find you a wooden one.  Chic. 
Be as angry as you will Sir, I'll not go  
Till I have maid my conditions; The true time  
For servants to stand upon points, is when  
Their Masters stand upon Thorns.  D. Zanc. 
What are they, Owls face?  Chic. 
Assurance Sir, but of free air within,  
With fair retreat, upon an even Floor,  
And that it shall not be in a sluts power,  
After having kept me in a nasty place,  
To empt' me out at window.  Don Zan. 
— Prithee Chichon  
Adone and miss not th'opportunity  
By fooling, unless you take Francisca  
Just as she comes from Mass, this day is lost,  
And I lost with it.  Chic. 
— Come, I'll hobble to her,  
Expect a sorry account, but yet a true one;  
Truth always comes, by the lame Messenger.  Exeunt. Scene changes to a fine pleasant Apartment. Enter D. Julio and knocks as at the Door of his private Apartment; Fernando opens the door and lets him in. Fer. 
You've given me here a very pleasant Prison:  
But what news my Julio? Are things disposed  
For clearing of your doubts? My own concerns  
I cannot think on, during your disquiet.  Jul. 
And I come now so strangely moved with yours,  
I scarce have sense or memory of my own,  
A heart of Adamant could not be hindered  
I think, from liquifaction into tears:  
I'have seen, and heard Elvira as I have done,  
Upon th'occasion of my telling her  
That you were gone,  
A sense so gallant, and so tender both,  
I never saw in Woman.  Fer. 
Can that high heart, descend to tenderness?  Jul. 
Not, (whilst you present) Noble pride upheld it;  
But Nature once set free from that constraint,  
O how pathetic was her very silence!  
And the restraint of tears, in her swollen Eyes,  
More eloquent in grief, than others torrents:  
If she be guilty, all her Sex are Devils.  Fer. 
O say no more, For were there Room but left  
For self deceit, I might be happy yet;  
Ah Evidence, too cruel, to deny me that.  A noise without. Jul. 
But what can be the noise, I hear without  
In the next Room.  Fernando peeps through the Keyhole. Fer. 
— 'Slife I see Don Pedro  
Elvira's father, there's no avoding him,  
H'eed not a come up so, without being sure  
You are within.  Jul. 
Further put oft, would be of little use,  
Since first or last, he must be satisfied,  
Being come hither upon such an Arrant,  
The sooner now we see what 'tis, he drives at,  
The sooner we shall take from thence our measures;  
I'll therefore go out to him, and be sure  
To entertain him still, so near the door  
That you may hear what passes.  Fer. 
I shall be attentive, and expect the Issue  
With much impatience.  Exit Julio. And the Scene changes to Don Julio's Ante-Chamber. Enter Don Pedro and his servant, and Don Julio and a Page. Don Ped. 
My business, Sir, is to Don Julio Rocca,  [Adressing himself to D. Julio] 
If you be he I shall desire the favour  
Of some few words with you in Private.  Don Jul. 
Sir, I am he to serve you, Page set Chairs.  He points to the Page, and makes him set the chairs by the door where Don Fernando is, and then the Page and Don Pedro's man retire. [They sit down.] D. Ped. 
Having not the honour to be known t'ee Sir,  
'Tis fit this Letter make my Introduction;  
'Tis from the Duke of Medina.  He gives Don Julio the letter, which he receives with great respect; And going a little aside reads it. 
THE LETTER.  
Done Pedro de Mendoca my Kinsman, and most particular Friend goes to Valencia, in pursuit of one who hath highly Injured his family, whose righting I am so much concerned in, as could it have been done without too much publication of the thing, I would have accompanied him myself, but my presence will be needless in a place where you have power; I do therefore conjure you, and expect from your regard and kindness to me, that you employ it throughly in his behalf, and what service you shall do him, put it upon my account, whom you shall always find,  
Your most affectionate Cousin to serve you The Duke of Medina.  Don Julio giving the Letter to Don Pedro and he taking it. Don Jul. 
Sir, it is sit you see how heartily  
The Duke hath recommended your concernments,  
Whose will's a Law to me.  Don Pedro having read it, and restoring it. Don Ped. 
He told me indeed how very sure he was  
Of your Friendship and dependence.  
— I am proud to find he makes,  
So obliging use of it to my advantage.  D. Jul. 
I do avow myself his Creature Sir;  
Therefore the sooner you shall let me know  
In what I may be useful t'ee, the sooner  
You'll see my readiness to serve you.  Don Pedro. 
Your personal reputation Sir, as well  
As your relation to the Duke, assured me  
Before hand, of what I find, and therefore  
As hard a part as it is for a Gentleman  
Of my blood and temper, to become  
Relator of his own shame, unrevenged  
On the Author of it, I shall tell you in short;  
I live under an affront of th' highest Nature  
To the Honour of my Family; And the Person  
Who did it, makes Valencia his retreat,  
'Tis against him, Don Julio,  
That your assistance must support me here,  
I have already got some notice of him,  
And when I shall be acertained, I'll repair  
Again unto you for your friendly aid,  
And for the present trouble you no farther.  Don Pedro offers to rise as going away. Don Jul. 
A little patience I beseech you Sir,  
I have expressed my readiness, and be sure  
I am a man never to fail, where once  
I have engaged my word; but Sir, withal,  
You must must consider with a fair reflection  
That in this place are all my chief Relations,  
Of blood and friendship; and though neither shall  
Have power t'exempt me from the serving you  
In any just pretention; yet you know,  
That men of Honour, ever aught to seek,  
How to comply with one duty, without  
Violating another.  Don Ped. 
I understand you Sir, and as 'tis that  
Which well becomes a person of your worth,  
To have reflected on; so it becomes me,  
To satisfy before I engage you further,  
Then give me leave to ask you, whither or no  
Don Zancho de Menezes be of the number  
Of those, towards whom you're under obligation,  
Either of blood, or friendship?  Don Julio showing some little surprise but presently recovering. Don Jul. 
Don Zancho de Meneses say you?  Don Ped. 
— Sir, the same,  
He startled at his Name.  Aside. D. Jul. 
He is a person I have always lived  
In friendly correspondance with, without  
Any such tie upon me towards him,  
As aught to hinder my frank serving you.  Don Ped. 
You have revived me; and since I have now named  
My Enemy, I can conceal no longer  
The Grounds on which he is so; That Don Zancho  
About a fortnight since, was late at night  
Found in my house, run newly through the body,  
And weltering in his blood, ready to expire;  
I by the outcry brought upon the place,  
Surprised as you may imagine, and enraged,  
Was yet so far Master of my passion,  
As to disdain the owing my revenge  
To an unknown hand, perhaps as guilty  
Towards me, as was the sufferer; I made  
Him straight be carried to a Surgeon, where,  
I thought it generous to give him life  
Then dead, that living I might give him death;  
Recovered sooner than I thought, he Fled,  
And with him, as I have reason to believe,  
My only Daughter, who the very night  
Of the accident was missing; O the Curse  
Of men to have their Honours Subjected,  
To the extravagance of such vile Creatures!  Jul. [sighing.] 
'Tis our hard fate indeed.  D. Ped. 
I presently employed all diligence  
To know what way he took, and having Learned  
'Twas towards this place, hither I have pursued him;  
Confirmed in my pursuit, by information  
A long the Road, that an unknown Gallant  
Had with his Servant, guarded all the way  
A concealed Lady in a Coach: And thus Sir,  
You have the story of my injury,  
Whereof I doubt not but your generous heart,  
Will wed the just revenge.  Jul. 
You may rely on't Sir, without reserves,  
To th'utmost of my power.  Don Ped. 
— May the gods reward you,  
The life that you Renew to these gray heirs;  
I'll take my leave at present, and return t'ee  
As soon as from the diligences used  
I shall have Clearer lights.  Don Jul. 
Here you shall find me waiting your Commands.  Exit Don Pedro, and Don Julio waiting on him out. Scene changes, and Enter Don Julio, and Don Fernando as in the private Apartment. Don Jul. 
I hope you over heard us.  Fer. 
— All distinctly,  
And with surprising joy at his mistake;  
Did ever bloodhound, in a hot pursuit,  
Run on so readily upon the change?  Jul. 
I hope it bodes good fortune in the Rest.  Fer. 
Were e'er two friends engaged in an adventure  
So intricate as we, and so Capricious?  Jul. 
Sure never in this world, me thinks it merits  
A special recapitulation.  
You at the height of all your happiness  
Supplanted with your Mistress by a Rival,  
You neither knew nor dreamt of; Evidence  
Anticipating jealousy.  Fer. 
And when that Rival, fallen by my Sword  
In her own presance, is by miracle  
Revived, and fitter to serve her then I,  
That faithless Mistress, with the same assurance  
She could have done, had she been true, as fair,  
And for my sake exposed to fatal hazards,  
Flies to my Arms for her Protection.  Jul. 
And whilst that you, refining point of Honour,  
In spite of Rage expose yourself to serve her,  
She asks, and takes, with a vowed indignation,  
To be beholding t'ee, new obligations,  Fer. 
I have recourse unto my only Friend,  
To help me in protecting my false Mistress,  
And he, at the same time, by highest Powers  
Imposed upon, to be her persecutor.  Jul. 
Whilst the same friend, and by the selfsame Powers,  
Is urged to Act, in their revenge, against  
The man, on whom you most desire to take it;  
And then, to heighten all beyond invention,  
That very friend, is forced, even in that instant,  
To a dependence on your only Aid,  
In his Honour's nearest and most nice concerns.  Fer. 
Heaven sure delights t'involve us in a kind  
Of Labyrinth, will pose itself to unwind.  Exeunt.  

ACT. IU.  Scene changes to the Room at Don Zancho's. Enter D. Zancho, and Chichon at another door, halting still with a staff. D. Zan. 
What here again already? have you speed?  Chichon 
Lame as I am, you see I have made good speed  
In my return, what e'er I have had in my Arrant.  D. Zan. 
Leave fool your quibbling, and deliver me  
From the disquiet of uncertainly.  Chich. 
That's quickly done, set Sir your heart at rest  
From the vain hopes of ever seeing Blanca:  
Now you are at ease I trow.  Don Zanc. 
You'll be at little, unless you leave your jesting  
With such edged tools; Is banishment from her  
Matter of Raillery? say Sirrah, and say  
Quickly, what hopes?  
— Prithee if thou lov'st me  kindly, 
Hold me no longer in suspense Chichon.  Chich. 
Why, then for fear, the Devil a bit for love,  
I'll tell you Sir, That luckily I met  
The Drab Francisca at the Capuchins  
Lodging, behind her Lady, I think on purpose,  
For I perceived, her eager Sparrowhawks eye  
With her veil down (near stirs a twinkling while  
From its fly peeping hole) had found me straight,  
I took my time in th' nick, but she out nicked me;  
For trudging on, her face an other way,  
With such a voice, as some you have seen, have had  
The trick to draw, from Caverns of their Belly,  
And make one think it came from a mile off;  
She made me hear these words about twilight,  
Fail not to pass by our door, and ask no more  
At this time Varlet. And thus Sir, you see,  
That neither she nor I, have been prolix,  
For this is all; You have leave to make your Comment  
On a brief text.  Don Zanc. 
As sweet methinks as short, such words imply  
Little less than a demi Assignation.  D. Zanc. 
All puddings have two ends, and most short sayings  
Two handles to their meaning.  Don Zan. 
I'm sure I'll still lay hold upon the pleasing'st  
Till it be wrested from me; i'th' mean while  
If any visitants come this afternoon,  
Be sure to tell them I am gone abroad,  
That nothing else embark us at the time;  
You shall not go alone.  Chic. 
— I thank you for it  Holding up his staff. 
I cannot go alone.  Exeunt Chichon halting. Scene changes to Don Julio's private Apartment. Enter Don Fernando and Julio as in the private Apartment. Don Jul. 
All things are rightly laid, for Violante  
Will pass the afternoon with Blanca, and then  
I waiting on her home in th' evening, Blanca  
Will be secure from me, till late at night,  
I shall be where I told you, in full view  
Of those two windows: If the Gallant come  
Up the great Stairs, he must pass through that Room  
And cannot scape your knowledge: If up the back one,  
You needs must hear him passing through the Entry  
Close by that door. If this latter way,  
Be sure to set the Candle in that window:  Pointing. 
If up the other, in that; and in either case  
As soon as he's within, fail not to bolt  
On th' inside th' Entry door, that so he may  
Find no retreat that way, I coming up  
The other.  Don Fern. 
— Be assured I shall be punctual  
As you direct.  Exeunt. Scene changes to Don Pedro's Lodging. Enter Don Pedro, and his servant Fulvio. Don Ped. 
Are you sure of what you say?  Ful. 
— As sure, Sir,  
As my own Eyes can make me of what I saw,  
You cannot doubt my knowing him, since 'twas I  
(You may remember) fetched the Surgeon to him,  
And saw his wounds dressed more than once, or twice;  
The Tavern where I was, looks into his Garden,  
And there I left him walking, to come tell you.  D. Ped. 
We are well advanced then, towards my just Revenge  
I found Don Julio as ready to comply  
With all the Duke's desires, as I could wish,  
And my great fear is over, That Don Zancho  
Might possibly have been some near Relation  
Of his own; so that now Fulvio, if you  
Keep but a careful Eye upon his motions,  
And give me notice, he can hardly scape us.  Ful. 
Doubt not my diligence.  Exeunt. Scene changes to the Garden. Enter Blanca and Francisca as in a fine Garden with Orange-trees and Fountains. Don. Blan. 
You must have your will, but know Francisca  
If you expose me to his vanity,  
I never shall forgive you.  Fran. 
I tell you, Madam, I will bring him t'ee  
So mortified, he shall an object be  
For pity, not for anger, you'll need employ  
Kindness to erect the poor dejected Knight.  Don. Blan. 
It fell out luckily that Violante  
Came hither, for my Brother now engaged  
With her, we're safe till ten a Clock at least.  Fran. 
But how shall we dispose of Silvia?  
It will be hard to scape her observation,  
For she has wit, and of the dangerous kind,  
A melancholy wit: O the unlucky Star  
That leads a Lady, engaged in love intrigues  
To take a new Attendant near her Person!  Don. Blan. 
'Twas an unluckiness, but Violante  
Could not be denied, I having told her  
So often that I wanted one; besides  
Who could have thought, sh'had one ready at hand,  
But we must make the best on't for this night:  
'Twill not be hard to bustle her, till 't be late  
In the perfuming Room. This near occasion  
Well o'er, I think it will not be amiss  
Against another, to say some what to her  
That may in case she have perceived any thing  
Persuade her she is not disinherited.  Fran. 
Madam take heed of that, when e'er you find  
It necessary to say any thing,  
Be sure to say that, that she may think all;  
Take one Rule more from my experience,  
Nothing so fatal as a Confidence  
By halves in amorous transactions;  
But here she comes.  D. Blan. 
Come Silvia, and take your part of this sweet Place;  
This is a day indeed, to taste its freshness.  Sil. 
Madam I needs must say, within a Town  
I never saw so fine a one.  Don. Blan. 
— In truth  
I think not many sweeter. Those Fountains  
Playing among those Orange trees and Myrtles,  
Have a fine mixed effect on all the senses;  
But think not Silvia to enjoy the pleasure  
Without contributing to make it more.  Sil. 
How can I be so happy?  D. Blan. 
Francisca tells me she has overheard you  
Warbling alone such Notes unto yourself,  
As have not only a good voice betrayed,  
But skill to manage it.  Sil. 
— It is Francisca  
That has betrayed, a very ill one Madam.  Don. Blan. 
Under you Palmtree's shade, there is a seat  
That yields to none in the advantages  
It lends to Music, let's go sit down there,  
For this first time, one Song shall satisfy.  Silu. 
When you have heard that one, I shall not fear  
Your asking me another.  They go and set down under the Palmtree and Silvia sings. 

THE SONG.  

See, O see!  
How every Tree,  
Every Bower,  
Every Flower,  
A new life gives to others joys,  
Whilst that I,  
Grief strucken lie,  
Nor can meet  
With any sweet,  
But what faster mine destroys.  
What are all the senses pleasures,  
When the mind has lost all measures?   

Hear, O hear!  
How sweet, and clear  
The Nightingale,  
And waters fall,  
In consort join for others Ears,  
Whilst to me  
For harmony,  
Every Air  
Echoes despair,  
And every drop provokes a tear.  
What are all the senses pleasures,  
When the mind has lost all measures?    Don. Blan. 
I thank you Silvia, but I'll not allow  
One of your youth, to nourish melancholy  
By tunes and words so flattering to that passion.  Silu. 
The happiness of serving you may fit me  
In time, for gayer things.  Don. Blan. 
I will not ask another for the present,  
Not for your reason, but because I'll be  
More moderate in my pleasures; Now Silvia  
I have a task to give you.  Silu. 
What e'er it be, 'twill be a pleasing one  
Of your imposing.  Don. Blan. 
— 'Tis to gather store of  
Fresh Orange Flowers, and then carefully  
To shift the Oils in the perfuming Room,  
As in the several ranges you shall see  
The old begin to wither; To do it well  
Will take you up some hours; But 'tis a work  
I oft perform myself; And that you may  
Be sure not to mistake, I'll go thither  
With you, and show you the manner of it.  Sil. 
I hope I shall not fail so well instructed.  Exeunt. Scene changes to the Room at Don Zancho's. Enter Don Zancho and Chichon. Chic. 
You're so impatient Sir, you will mar all,  
I tell you that 'tis yet too light by half,  
The Sun is hardly set; pray fetch a turn  
Or two more in the Garden, ear you go.  D. Zan. 
You must be Governor, I see, to night,  
You are so proud o'th'service you have done;  
Come away.  Exeunt. Scene changes to the Garden again. Silvia appears in the Garden as gathering flowers from the Orange Trees, and then with her Apron full going away says, Silu. 
The task enjoined me is a sweet one truly,  
But I smell somewhat more in the imposall;  
So far I am happy yet in my misfortune  
That I am lighted into a Lady's service  
Of an obliging humour; But most of all  
One that as kind as she is, I see's as glad,  
To leave me alone as I to be it, somewhat  
There is, mysterious in her looks, and conduct:  
Such motions just, such inequalities,  
Such flatteries to those I trusted least,  
Such pretty employments found, to busy those  
I would be rid of; And such arts as these  
To single out her Confident unnoted,  
I well remember would Elvira use,  
Whilst the unquiet joys of Love, possessed her,  
How innocent soever; And besides,  
Francisca's sitting up so late last night,  
And going up and down so warily,  
Whilst others slept, is evidence enough  
What God reigns here, as well as at the Court.  
But I forget myself: Let descants cease,  
Who serves though she observes, must hold her peace.  Exit Silvia. Scene changes to the Prospect of Valencia. Enter Don Zancho with his Cloak o'er his face, and Chichon. Don Zanc. 
Advance Chichon, I'll follow at a distance:  
'Tis the right time, just light enough, you see,  
For warned Expectors to know one another;  
I hope she will not fail you.  Chic. 
— She fail us?  
No sentinel perdu is half so alerte  
As she in these occasions.  Enter Francisca veil peeping, as out of the portal of Don Julio's house. Fran. 
There comes the Varlet, and I'm much deceived,  
Or that's his Master lagging at a distance,  
I'll give them a go by, covered with my veil.  She passes by them heedlessly. Chic. 
By that light as little as 'tis, 'Tis she,  
I'll to her.  Don Zanc. 
— And I'll stand close the while,  
When you have broken the Ice, I'll take my time.  Chichon going to Francisca lays hold of her veil, and she turns about. Chic. 
What signifies a Veil to hide my Doxye?  
When every motion of a leg or wing  
Darts round perfuming, and informing Airs,  
Thou art the very Colly-flower of Women,  Fran. 
And thou the very Cabbidge-stalk of Men,  
That never stunk to me, as does a Blab.  Chic. 
Curse on thee, hold thy tongue; Dost thou not see  
Who stands against that wall.  Fran. 
Away, saucebox.  She thrusting him off goes on. Don Zancho sets himself just in her way, and makes as if he would lie down in it. D. Zanc. 
Pass, trample on me, do, trample; But here me.  Fran. 
These shoe's have been my Ladies, and she'd ne'er  Showing her foot. 
Forgive it, should they do you so much Honour.  

* [Aside turning to Chichon.  'Tis thou hast caused all this.  Chic. 
— Fire on thy tongue.  Don Zanc. 
Ah! my Francisca, if their be no hopes  
Of pardon, nor of pity; Yet at least  
Let Blanca for her own sake, be so just  
As not to give me cruel death unheard:  
Do you your part at least, and do but give her  
This letter from me.  He offers her a Letter, and she starting back. Fran. 
— Guarda. That's a thing  
She has forbidden, with such Menaces,  
I dare as well become another Porcia,  
And eat red burning coals. I had much rather  
Consent, that now she's all alone at home,  
You should transportedly rush in upon her  
As following me so possibly you might  
Attain your end, without exposing me;  
Who in that case, know how to Act my Part  
So smartly against you, as shall keep her clear  
From all suspicion; But I am to blame  
Thus to forget my duty, I'll stay no longer.  He stops her and pulling out a Purse of money, put's it unto her hand. Don Zanc. 
Spoke like an Angel.  Francisca offers to restore the Purse but yet holding it fast. Fran. 
This is you know superfluous with me,  
And shock's my humour; But any thing from you:  
Be sure you follow boisterously.  She trudges away, and goes in hastily as to Julio's house and Don Zancho follows her in. Chichon stops at the door. Chic. 
I'll bring you no ill luck a second time;  
If for sport's sake, you have projected me  
Another Somerset, from the Balcone,  
Make your account, that 'tis already done,  
Here you will find me halting in the street,  Exit Chichon. Scene changes to Donna Blanca's Ant Chamber. Enter Donna Blanca as in her Ante Chamber. Don Blan. 
How true it is, that Nature cheats mankind,  
And makes us think ourselves the only Tasters  
Of pure delight, and bliss; when as indeed,  
Oppressing us with pains, and griefs, she makes  
Deliverance from them, pass for solid pleasure:  
Witness in me those Images of joy  
Wherewith she flatters now my expectation:  
What will its highest satisfaction be,  
At most, but ease from what tormented me?  Enter Francisca hastily. Fran. 
It now imports, you have affected Rage,  
As ready at hand as usually you have  
Anger, in earnest; But above all, be sure  
You discharge it smartly upon me, for here  
He presses at my heels.  Enter Don Zancho, and goes to cast himself at Donna Blanca's feet, and she starting back from him. Don. Blan. 
What in'olence is this?  
— Think not Francisca  
That I am to be fooled; This is your work,  
You shall not stay an hour within these walls;  
By all that's good you shall not.  Fran. 
For heaven's sake Madam, be not so unjust  Whining. 
To an old servant, always full of duty;  
But can I govern mad men, would y' have had me  
Make all the Street take notice? There he attacked me  
With such transportment, the whole Town had rung on't  
Had I not run away; Could I imagine  
A man so wild as to pursue me hither  
Into your presence?  Don. Blan. 
— 
* [Severely and scornfully.]  It is well Don Zancho  
Blanca may be thus used; But he that does it  
Shall find—  She turns away as going out he holds her by the sleeve. Don Zanc. 
Pardon this rudeness Madam; But a man  
Made desperate, hath nothing more to menage.  
Hither I come, to give you satisfaction,  
And if my reasons can't, my heart blood shall;  
But you must hear me, or here see me dead.  D. Blan. 
Since to be rid of him Francisca, I see  Turning to Francisca.] 
I must the penance undergo of hearing him,  
Keep careful watch, to prevent accidents.  Fran. 
Madam, your Closit will be much more proper  
For such a Conference; For in case your Brother  
Should come, Don Zancho has a safe retreat  
From thence, down the back Stairs. I shall be sure  
To give you timely notice.  Don Zanc. 
And I know perfectly the passage through  
Th' Entry, I've come up more than once that way,  
During my happy days.  D. Blan. 
I think you've reason, since I must have patience  
Light us in thither.  [Francisca takes the lights, and going before them, Exeunt omnes.] Scene changes to the Prospect of Valencia. Enter Don Julio as in the Portal of his own house. D. Jul. 
The light was in the further window, therefore  
He went up this way: Now if Fernando  
Have not forgot to bolt the Entry Door,  
He cannot scape us sure, who ear he be.  
— 'Tis the only Comfort,  
In such misfortunes, when a man hath means  
To right his Honour, without other help  
Then such a friend, as is another self,  
And that the shame's even from Domestics hid  
Until it be revenged.  Exit Don Julio as going into his own house. Enter Chichon as coming out of the Porch before Julio's house. Chic. 
'Slight 'tis Don Julio, that I saw go in,  
My Master's like to pass his time but ill,  
I'll steal in after, and observe, although  
My courage cannot steed him, thy wit may,  
As things may possibly fall out  Exit Chichon as stealing after Don Julio into his house. Scene changes to Donna Blanca's Closet. Enter Don Zancho and Donna Blanca as in her Closet. D. Blan. 
As fine a story as may be; No Don Zancho,  
I Blanca Rocca, am not Carta Blanca,  
Fit to receive what e'er impression  
Your Art—  Enter Francisca hastily. Fran. 
— Your Brother's in the Hall already,  
Quick, Quick, and let him find you in your Chamber  
Before your Glass, I have set it ready there  

* [Pointing (to Don Zancho.  Whilst he retires the way that was resolved.  Scene changes to Donna Blanca's Bed chamber. Francisca takes the Candle, and Exeunt she, and Donna Blanca and D. Zancho another way. Re-enter Donna Blanca and Francisca as in Blanca's chamber, and she newly seated at her Toilet, and beginning to unpin. Enters Don Julio. Don Jul. 
Blanca I thought you had been a bed ear this,  
Have you had company to entertain you,  
And keep you up beyond your usual hour?  D. Blan. 
What Company can I have, you abroad,  
As this time of the night?  D. Jul. [Ironically] 
I fain would find out some such as might please you:  
Francisca take a Candle and light me in  
To Blanca's Closet.  D. Blan. 
— Good Brother what's the matter?  
You were not wont to be so curious  
As thus to pry into my Privacies.  D. Jul. 
That you shall know anon: Do as I bid you  
Francisca.  Francisca takes one of the Candles, and going before him stumbles and falling puts out the light. Don Julio taking it up, lights it again at the other on the Table, and going with it himself towards Donna Blanca's Closet. D. Jul. 
These Tropes are lost on me.  Exit. Fran. 
Let him go, now we have gained time enough.  D. Blan. 
Thanks to thy timely fall.  Fran. 
— Persons employed  
In such trusts, must have their wits about them;  
'Tis clear that he suspects, but know he cannot,  
When once you see all safe, 'twill then import you  
To play the Tyrant over him, with reproaches  
For this his jealousy.  D. Blan. 
— Let me alone for that,  
But let us follow him in, that we may mark  
His whole demeanour.  Exeunt. Enter Don Zancho in disorder. D. Zanc. 
Curse on't, the Entry door's bolted within,  
What shall I do?  He pawses. 
— I must seek a way  
Through the Perfuming Room, into the Garden.  Exit. Enter Don Julio with a Candle in his hand, and passing hastily over the Stage. D. Jul. 
He must be gone this way, there is no other,  
The Entry door was bolted.  Enter Donna Blanca and Francisca, and passes over the Stage as stealing after Don Julio. Fran. 
All's safe, he takes that way, let him a God's name  
Follow his Nose, to the Perfuming Room.  D. Blan. 
he'll fright poor Silvia out of her wits,  
But I'll come to her succour, with a peal  
I'll ring him.  Exeunt Donna Blanca and Francisca. Scene changes to the Laberatory. Here is to open a curious Scene of a Laberatory in perspective, with a Fountain in it, some Stills, many Shelves with Pots of Porcelain, and Glasses, with Pictures above them, the Room paved with black and white Marble with a Prospect through Pillars, at the end discovering the full Moon, and by its light a perspective of Orange Trees, and towards that further end Silvia appears at a Table shifting Flowers, her back turned. Enter Don Zancho hastily, and Silvia, that is, Elvira turning about they both startle, and stand a while as it were amazed. D. Zan. 
O heavens! what is't I see? 'Tis mere Illusion,  
Or 'tis the Devil in that Angel's form,  
Come here to finish, by another hand  
The fatal work that she begun upon me  
By Don Fernando's.  Silvia [〈◊〉 Elvira] 
Good gods Don Zancho here! it cannot be,  
Or 'tis his Ghost come to revenge his death  
On its occasioner; For were he alive;  
He could not but have more humanity  
Then (having been my ruin at Madrid,  
And robbed me of my home, and honour there)  
To envy me an obscure shelter here.  Whilst they amazed step back from one another. Enter Don Julio who seeing Don Zancho with his back towards him drawing his Sword says. D. Jul. 
Think not (who ear thou art), by flying thus,  
From Room to Room, to scape my just Revenge;  
Shouldst thou retire to th'center of the Earth,  
This Sword should find thee there, and pierce thy heart.  Throwing down the Candle he makes towards Don Zancho, but upon his turning about towards him, he makes a little stop and says. D. Jul. 
Nay, then if it be you, I'm happy yet  
In my my misfortune; since the gods thus give me  
The means at once, and by the self same stroke,  
To right my honour, and revenge my friend;  
And by that action, fully to comply  
With what the Duke requires in the behalf  
Of wronged Don Pedro  Don Julio makes at Don Zancho, he draws and they begin to fight, Silvia, that is, Elvira crying out help, help, runs to part them, and they stop upon her interposing. Entor Don Fernando hastily over the Stage, as coming from the private Apartment. Don Fer. 
I hear an outcry, and clattering of Swords;  
My friend engaged, must find me by his side.  Exit and reenters at another door. As Fernando comes as to the door of the Perfuming Room, seeing them at a stand, he stops and stands close. Don Fer. 
They are Parlying, let's hear.  Aside. Donna Blanca and Francisca passing over the Stage. D. Blan. 
'Twas Silvia's voice, my heart misgives me somewhat.  Fran. 
'Tis some new accident, or some mistake,  
Don Zancho cannot but be safe long since.  Don Blan. 
However let us in and see.  Exeunt Donna Blanca and Francisca, and re-enter as at another door of the Perfuming Room, and make a stand as surprised with what they see. Don Blan. 
We are all undone I fear.  Fran. 
A little patience.  Chichon stealing over the Stage. Chic. 
The noise is towards the Perfuming Room,  
I know the back way to it through the Garden.  Exit Chichon, and reenters at the further end of the Laberatory and stands close. Don Zan. 
Wit must repair the disadvantages  Aside. 
I'm under here, and save my Blanca's honour,  
That once secured, there will be time enough  
To salve Elvira's.  Whilst this passes Elvira holds Julio by the arm, he striving to get from her. Zancho to Julio 
Since by this Ladies interposing thus,  
You have thought fit, our Swords should pause a while,  
It may I think consist enough with Honour,  
So far to seek your satisfaction Sir,  
As to remove mistakes; Know then Don Julio,  
That though I have presumed upon your house,  
I have not wronged your honour; It is she  
With whom you find me, that hath brought me hither,  
Her I have long adored, and having gour  
Intelligence, that she was here concealed,  
My Passion I confess transported me  
Beyond that circumspection and regard,  
Which men of quality use and ought t'observe,  
Towards one another's dwellings.  D. Jul. 
Good gods what an adventure's here? Yet all  Aside. 
Is well, so Blanca's honour be but safe.  
Sir, you surprise me much, can this be true?  To D. Zancho Blan. 
Francisca heard'st thou that, Had everman  Aside. 
So ready a wit, in such an Exigent?  Don Julio to Elvira. 
What say you Madam?  Fran. 
We're surer lost than ever, unless she  Aside. 
Have wit, and heart, to take the thing upon her.  
Madam, make signs to her, and earnestly.  To Blan. Blanca makes earnest signs. Silvia. To Elvira. Francisca [Aside to Blanca.] 
She looks this way, as if she comprehended  
Your meaning.  Elu. 
I understand her, and I know as well  Aside. 
What mischief I may draw upon myself,  
But let Elvira still do generously  
And leave the rest to fate.  
— Sir, since you press me,  To Julio 
My humour ne'er could disavow a truth,  
Don Zancho's passion, and transportments for me  
Beyond all Rules of temper, and discression,  
Have been the cause of all my sad misfortunes,  
And still I see must be the cause of more.  Jul. 
Unhappy Creature, how thou hast deceived  
My prone persuasion of thy Innocence.  Don Zancho [holding out his Sword.] 
If that suffice not Sir, you have this ready  
To give you satisfaction.  D. Fer. 
Hell and Furies, but I will yet contain  Aside. 
Myself, and see how far my friend will drive it.  Don Jul. 
Stay Don Zancho,  
And answer me one question, Is this Night  
The first of your presuming thus to enter  
My house by stealth?  Zan. [Blanca aside to Francisca.] 
— The quere is malicious,  Aside. 
But I must thorough, as I have begun  
There was a question, makes me tremble still.  D. Zancho [to Julio.] 
No Sir, it is not I'll keep nothing from you;  
Last Night upon the same occasion.  Jul. 
— Hold it suffices.  Francisca [aside hastily to Blanca.] 
All's safe, you see, for Godsake lets away  
ere Julio perceive us,  
Your presence here, can serve for nothing Madam,  
But to beget new chances, and suspicions.  Exeunt Blanca and Francisca. Fernando rushes out drawing his Sword. Fer. 
Yes, it suffices Julio to make  
This hand strike surer than it did before.  Elu. 
Nothing was wanting to my misery,  Aside. 
But his being here to overhear; But yet  
I must not suffer the same hand to kill him  
A second time, upon a greater error  
Than was the first.  Don Fernando making at Don Zancho, Elvira steps between, and Julio also offers to stay him. Fer. striving to come at Zancho.] 
Strive to protect your Gallant from me, do,  
Strive, but in vain; The gods themselves cannot:  
What you Don Julio too?  Chichon running out from the place where he lurcked, strikes out both the lights with his hat. Chic. 
I have loved to see fighting, but at present,  
I love to hinder seeing how to fight.  
Knights brandish now your blades, 'twill make fine work  Aloud. 
Among the Gallipots.  
You have me by your side Sir, Let them come  As to his Master. 
They are but two to two.  
Sir follow me, I'll bring you to the Door.  [Aside to his Master and pulling him.] Don Zanc. 
There's no dishonour in a wise Retreat  
From disadvantages to meet again  
Ones Enemy upon a fairer score.  Chichon pushing his Master before him out of the Door. Chichon [aside to his master.] 
There 'tis, advance Sir, I'll make good the Rear.  Exeunt Don Zancho and Chichon. Don Jul. 
Ho, who's without? bring lights.  He stamps. 
— They cannot hear us,  
The Room is so remote from all the rest,  
What a confusion's this? Recall Fernando,  To Fernando. 
Your usual temper, and let's leave this place,  
And that unhappy Maid, unto its darkness,  
To hide her blushes, since her shame it cannot.  
Elvira sola.  Exit Don Julio groping, and drawing Fernando with him. 
Darkness and horror welcome, since the gods  
Live in the dark themselves; For had they light  
Of what's done here below; They would afford  
Some Ray to shine on injured Innocence,  
And not instead thereof, thus multiply,  
Obscuring Clouds upon it, such as the Sun,  
Should he with all his Beams illuminate  
men's understandings scarce could dissipate;  
I now begin to pardon thee Fernando,  
Since what thou hast heard, in this enchanted Place,  
Carries conviction in't against my firmness,  
Above the power of Nature to suspend  
My condemnation: Unless wronged virtue might  
Expect in thee, a justice so refined  
As ne'er was found in man to woman kind.  
'Tis now I must confess, the lost Elvira,  
Fit only for a Cloister, where secure  
In her own spotless mind, she may defy  
All censures; And without Impiety  
Reproach her Fate, even to the Deity.  Exit groping her way.  

ACT. V.  Enter Don Julio talking to himself, and at another door Fernando, who perceiving it, stands close. Don. Jul. 
Blessed be the gods, that yet my Honour's safe,  
Amidst such strange perplexities, from which  
Fortune, and wit, I think, together joined  
With all their strength, could hardly an issue find.  
To temper, comfort, or to serve my friend;  
What argument? What means? how to assist  
Don Pedro in his aims, and to comply  
With what I owe the Duke, I see as little,  
And less conceive, how to behave myself  
As aught a Gentleman towards a Lady,  
With whose Protection he hath charged himself,  
And brought her to his house on that assurance,  
Whom to expose, cannot consist with honour,  
However she may have exposed her own,  
And least of all, how to repair to Blanca  
The injury I have done her, whose high spirit  
I fear will be implacable. O Heavens!  
What a condition's mine?  He stands pausing, and startles seeing Fernando. Enter Fernando. D. Fer. 
Pardon dear Cousin, if to avoid one rudenss  
I have another unawares committed.  
Whilst fearing to interrupt, I have overheard,  
Yet nothing Cousin, but the self same things,  
My thoughts have been revolving all this night,  
Concerned for you, much more than for myself,  
For I upon reflection, find I am  
Much easier than I was; By certainty  
Freed from the forest weight, Perplexity.  
In the first place, You must forgive your friend,  
The high distemper of last Night's transportments,  
I hope you'll find me well recovered from them,  
And that my morning resolutions are  
Such, as will make amends.  D. Jul. 
Make no excuse dear friend, such provocations  
Surprising, are above Philosophy,  
And 'tis no small experiment of yours,  
If after them, you can have brought yourself  
So soon, to fix a judgement what to do.  Don Fer. 
I have fixed on that, which I am sure will serve  
All Interests but my own, as heretofore  
I understood my happiness, but now  
I shall no longer place it in any thing  
dependent on the wild Capricho of others.  
— No Julio.  
I will be happy even in spite of fate,  
By carrying generosity up to the height.  
Elvira shall her dear bliss, owe to me,  
Not only by desisting, but by making  
Her loved Don Zancho marry her, his refusal  
Alone, can make me kill him o'er again.  Don Jul. 
Since that unhappy Maid, withal her beauty  
And that high Quality, hath made herself  
Unworthy of your Marriage, certainly  
None but Fernando, ever could have pitched  
Upon so Noble a thought, but think withal  
What difficulties are likely to obstruct it.  D. Fer. 
Say what occur's to you.  D. Jul. 
Don Zancho is a man of wit, and courage,  
And though his passion out of doubt be great,  
Since it hath made him do so wild an action,  
As that of coming twice into my house  
After so strange a manner; Yet Fernando  
You cannot but imagine, such a One,  
Likely to have quite different reflections,  
Upon Elvira's conduct for a wife,  
From what he has, upon it for a Mistress,  
They are two notions very differing:  
Besides should the proposal but appear  
In the least kind, to spring from your desire,  
Whose former commerce with hers not unknown,  
It were the only way to drive him off,  
Past all recall, I think few have accepted  
Wives recommended to them by their Rival.  D. Fer. 
In that you've reason I confess; But Julio  
Think of the way, for marry her he must  
Or die, and by no other hand but mine.  
I am thinking of it, and I hope to purpose,  Don Julio pausing. 
What Interposer can be found so fit  
As Blanca in this business? since Don Zancho  
Has long been her particular acquaintance,  
And what can be more Natural, then for her  
To take to heart, Elvira's chief concernment?  
Whom he finds here retired in her misfortune  
As to her surest friends.  D. Fer. 
You've lighted Cousin on the only way,  
And lose no time I beg you.  D. Jul. 
The least that may be; but you must consider  
In what a predicament I am likely  
To be with Blanca, at present.  D. Fer. 
I understand you (since the jealousy  
You expressed of her.) But 'tis to be hoped  
The peace will not be long a making.  D. Jul. 
You little know her spirit, once inflamed,  
But as I'll lose no time, so I'll omit  
No Art to bring her to a temper, fit  
To hear and to advance the Proposition.  D. Fer. 
Heaven give you good success.  D. Jul. 

* (Julio turning back to Fernando.  I had forgot to tell you, that I think  
It will be necessary, that as soon  
As I have weathered Blanca's storm, I make  
A visit to Don Pedro, to prevent  
His coming hither, to disorder us,  
Before we have set things Right.  D. Fer. 
'Twas not ill thought on; And till your return  
I shall keep close in your Apartment;  
For Blanca has not seen me, and Elvira  
Has too great cares upon her to be curious.  Exeunt. Enter Blanca and Francisca, Blanca with a gay air. As in her Ante-Chamber. D. Blan. 
Say my Francisca, can Romances equal  
Our last night's adventure? was there ever  
Such a come off? Our Sex has used to boast  
Presence of mind in Exigents of Love,  
But I believe none of us ever matched  
Don Zancho's readiness in an occasion  
So sudden and so Critical.  Fran. 
Ever give me the man of ready Parts.  D. Blan. 
But prithee, whilst we give Don Zancho his dues,  
Let us be just too, to poor Silvia's merit;  
Was ever any thing so generous?  
Or so obliging to a Mistress?  Fran. 
So it appears Madam, I must confess,  
But the excess of it makes it suspicious.  Don. Blan. 
Fie, leave this humour of detracting still,  
And call her to me, that I may embrace  
And thank her; That done consider how  
To bring her off, who has brought us off so well.  Offers to go out. Enter Don Julio. Fran. 
Stay I beseech you, and compose yourself  
To act a part quite of another Nature;  
Here comes Don Julio, towards whom I hope  
You'll tune yourself, to a far differing Key  
From that of thanks and kindness.  Don Blan. 
Let me alone for that, I'll play the Dragon.  As Julio advances, Blanca turns from him with a furious countenance, and flies out of the Room, Julio following her. D. Jul. 
Dear Sister stay, and hear me.  D. Blan. 
Detested Brother leave me.  She makes as if she were going, and he holds her. D. Jul. 
Hear me but Blanca, and then vent your passion  
Against a Brother, that condemns himself  
As much as you can do; But hear me speak.  D. Blan. 
Your actions Julio, have spoke loud enough  
To Echo through the world, your shame and mine;  
Has all the tenor of my life been such,  
With such exactness, of unblemished conduct,  
That malice might have stained the noon day Sun  
More easily, then tarnished Blanca's honour,  
And must that Honour, now be prostitute,  
By the Capricho of an unworthy Brother,  
Should any other have invaded it,  
Had not you righted her, She has a heart  
Would have sound ways to right herself; But you  
th'agressor, What remedy but Rage?  She flings from him, and Exit. Fran. 
She acts it rarely.  Aside. D. Jul. 
Was ever man so unfortunate as I?  To Francisca. 
I must confess she has reason, and the sense  
She thus expresses of my fault, becomes her,  
But it must be your work, my dear Francisca,  
To pacify; When once you shall but know  
All that has past these Nights, I am certain  
You'll say, no humane confidence could ear  
Be proof against such circumstances.  Fran. 
Alas, my offices can signify  As if she were crying. 
But little, But I'm sure the occasion  
Gives me a sad heart, O my dear Lady.  D. Jul. 
I love good Nature, but I prithee leave  
And come in with me, that I may tell thee all.  Exeunt. Enter Don Pedro, and Fulvio as in his lodging. Don Ped. 
A God's name Fulvio, what has been thy meaning,  
To make me sit up almost all last night  
Expecting thee, when such impatience held me?  
Thou wert not wont to be so negligent  
In things of so great weight.  Fulu. 
Nor have I been it now, 'Tis over care  
Of your commands, hath held me so long from you;  
You know the orders that you gave me Sir,  
To watch Don Zancho's motions; Accordingly,  
I sat all day in my observing place  
Till about twilight; I saw him and's man  
Steal as it were abroad; I as warily,  
Dogged them from Street to Street, till Sir, at length  
He made a stand up close against a Wall,  
Whilst that his Servant entertained a Woman  
Close Veiled, who was come out I think on purpose  
From an adjacent house; soon after he  
Accosted her himself, their Conference  
Lasted but little, she made haste away  
To th'house from whence she came, and he as much  
To follow her in.  Don Ped. 
Where waste? and why cam'st thou not presently?  
To give me notice as you were directed.  Fulu. 
At that you will not wonder, when you know  
Whose house he entered; But at this you'll wonder,  
It was Don Julio's  D. Pedro startling.] 
Ha! Don Julio's sayst thou?  He pawses. 
But now I think on't 'tis no marvel Fulvio,  
Since newly come to Town, For I remember  
Don Julio told me, that Don Zancho and he  
Had always lived in friendly correspondence.  Fulu. 
Visits Sir, only of fair civility  
After long absence, are not usually  
Begun by twilight, in such cautious manner;  
Nor ushered in, by Female veiled conductors:  
But pray Sir, hear the rest.  D. Ped. 
What can this be? 
* To Fulvio.  say on then quickly,  Aside. Ful. 
I presently concluded with myself,  
That since Don Julio was the friend on whose  
Assistance you relied against Don Zancho,  
You near would think Sir, attacking him  
As he came out from thence, I judged it therefore  
My wisest course to stay, and mark the issue.  
And stay I did, till it was after midnight,  
About which time, walking from side to side,  
That I might see both Issus of the house,  
It being as light almost as day, I saw  
The Gallant and his man leap from the wall  
Of Julio's Garden, and from thence in haste  
Make home. (Julio's  D. Ped. 
'Sdeath man thou dreamest! Don Zancho from Don  
In that manner; Awake fool and speak sense.  Fulu. 
I say but what I saw, as I see you.  D. Ped. 
O the Devil, What the same Villain  
Found the affronter of my friend too, here  
In the same kind? Give me my Cloak and Sword,  
I must know the bottom of this.  Exeunt. Enter Blanca and Francisca, as in her Ante-Chamber. D. Blan. 
I come from seeing and caressing Silvia,  
But with most strange surprise, at her Comportment  
Towards me.  Fran. 
How! Madam.  D. Blan. 
My words, and Actions both, expressing to her  
Not only highest gratitude and kindness,  
But a solicitude in the concerns  
Of her honour, equal to what she had shown  
In mine; They were received with such a coldness,  
With such an air of Melancholy pride,  
With half replies, and those not half to th'purpose,  
As make me with amazement to conclude,  
That either she has lost her understanding,  
Or that there's somewhat in't we understand not.  Fran. 
She's a Maid of an odd composition;  
And besides that, I needs must tell you Madam,  
That having had my observation freer,  
Than you perhaps during last night's adventure,  
I remarked some what both in her demeanour,  
And in Don Zancho's, makes me confident  
They met not there strangers to one another,  
As you imagine; But there's time enough  
To think and talk of that: What presses now  
Is your right ordering of Don Julio:  
You have begun, as well as can be wished.  D. Blan. 
Say did I not do my part?  Jollily. Fran. 
— Beyond imagination,  
But take heed now, of over doing it,  
'Tis time to tack about, to reconcilement.  
And thought of drawing those advantages  
From the Embroilment, as may for the future  
Secure you from like accidents.  D. Blan. 
— You say well, but how?  Fran. 
The first step must atonement be between you,  
Of which he hath so earnestly conjured me  
To be an Instrument, that you consenting  
To give him a hearing, through my mediation,  
I am made for ever, an settled in the power  
Of serving you, by better cozenning him:  
Besides he tell's me, he hath that to say,  
And to propose unt'ee, as shall not only  
Excuse him with you, but prevent all danger  
Of prejudicial rumours, which might rise  
From last night's accident.  D. Blan. 
— Agreed, let's in  
And play the second part.  Exeunt. Enter Don Zancho and Chichon as in his own house. D. Zan. 
Were we not born with Cauls' upon our heads  Jollily. 
Think'st thou Chichon? to come off twice a row  
Thus rarely, from such dangerous Adventures.  Chich. 
Rather I think with Combs, so of't to venture.  D. Zan. 
Thou Coxcomb say, had I not my wits about me?  Chich. 
'Twere too uncomplaizant to deny that,  
You know I love not to talk seriously;  
But tell me now in earnest, are you satisfied  
To have come off so, is there no qualm remaining  
Upon your gentle heart, for leaving i'th' suds  
A poor distressed Virgin, who she is  
I neither know nor care, but I am sure  
Had generous Chichon, to save his life  
Played a sweet Innocent Lady such a trick,  
He would have passed but for a Recreant Knight,  
And much the more, she having shown herself  
So gallant, as to save her Lady's honour  
T'expose her own: Say true Don Galor, say,  
Were your part found in a Romance or Play,  
Whose Character would it not disluster?  D. Zanc. 
How soon a fool's bolt's shot, without distinction  
Of what's the mark. Thou censurest without knowing  
Who th'exposed Lady is. Know then Chichon  
And wonder, 'tis Elvira, that Elvira  
For whom I sighed, like to have sighed my last  
On her score at Madrid: Don Fedro's Daughter.  Chich. 
You raise enchanted Castles in the Air,  
But were it as you say, that makes the thing  
More inexcusable; You had been too blame  
To have used a stranger so; But so t'have served  
A Lady whom you had once professed to love,  
Raises the fault above all heightening.  D. Zanc. 
Nay, than I see I must once play the fool,  
In answering a fool seriously,  
The things thou sayst are heightenings indeed,  
Not of my fault, but merit in the Action  
Towards my Blanca, since to save her honour,  
I did not only sacrifice Elvira's,  
But thus expose mine own: Time may recover  
Elvira's fame, and mine this quickly shall.  Clapping his hand on his Sword. 
Here take this letter, and employ your wit  
In finding out the means with secrecy  
To give it Don Fernando unobserved,  
I shall not stir from home, till I have his answer.  Chic. 
You found him Sir, a man of quick dispatch  
In your last business with him at Madrid.  Exit Don Zancho. 
How honourable 'tis to serve a Don.  
What Petit Basque on t'other side the Mountains,  
Durst have aspired to the high dignity  
Of carrying a Cartal? A Monsieur  
Would sooner have put up a twinge by the Nose,  
Then sent a challenge by a serving man.  Exit. Enter Blanca furiously, and running to a Cabinet, takes out thence a Stiletto, and Francisca earnestly after her as in Blanca's Closet. Don. Blan. 
Villains shall find, I am not unprovided  
Wrongs to revenge, that cannot be forgiven.  Fran. 
I thought the strange constraint upon herself  Aside. 
Wherewith she heard her Brother, would serve in the end  
But to make rage, break out with greater fury;  
Yet it is well she kept it in so long,  
As to get rid of him.  
Good Madam, moderate yourself a little.  To Blanca. D. Blan. 
Preach temper to the damned souls in hell,  
‛ That they may teach the Traitor moderation,  
When I have sent him thither with his Devil.  Fran. 
I do confess the provation such,  
As more than justifies all these transportments;  
And therefore I beseech you think not, Madam,  
In what I say, I can the least aim have  
Of saving him; from the extremest fury  
Of your resentment; or preserving her,  
Who has had the impudence to abuse you so  
Under pretence of serving: May they perish,  
But let it be in such away, as may not  
Draw a more dismal ruin on yourself;  
Let swift destruction seize them; Yet let not  
Madam your hand, but head dispense their fate,  
What can the Issue be, of such an action  
As that of which I see that shining steel  
And flaming Eyes of yours? The threatning Comets,  
I beg but the reflection of a moment.  Blanca walking upon the Stage with enraged jestures pawses, at length sheathing, and putting her Stiletto in her sleeve with a sober composed tone. 
* Francisca I thank you, for recalling me  Don. Blan. 
Thus to myself, I will be temperate:  Aside. 
But it shall be to make revenge the surer.  Fran. 
Her tone, nor jestures cannot cozen me,  Aside. 
They both seem to disguise a black design,  
But I shall watch you, 'tis a half gained cause  
In fury's course, to have begot a pause.  D. Blan. 
Do what I bid you presently Francisca,  
Send to Don Zancho, and let him know from me,  
I earnestly desire to speak with him.  Fran. 
Lord Madam, what d''ee mean?  D. Blan. 
To make the pleasing proposition to him,  
As I told my Brother I would.  
— Say, am I not moderate?  
But do without reply, what I command.  Fran. 
Madam, I shall obey.  
— But observe you so withal,  Aside. 
As to prevent the mischief if I can.  Exit Francisca. D. Blan. 
Ye Gods assist me in my just revenge,  
Or you will make an Atheist; My first work  
Must be before Don Zanĉho come to speak  
With his sweet Mistress, and with words and looks  
As false as hers have been, so to delude her  
With hopes of what she wishes, that they both  
May jointly fall my Honour's sacrifice.  Exit. Enter Don Fernando as in Don Julio's private Apartment. D. Fer. 
Since generosity hath so far got  
The mastery, as to have made me fix  
Upon a resolution so unheard of,  
I long to see it executed.  
— But stay,  
I think, I hear Elvira's voice without,  
And Blanca's too, here curiosity  He makes as if he hearkened, and then 
To over here, is pardonable.  Exit as to go where he may better hear. Silvia Enter Elvira and Blanca as in the Ante-Chamber, and Fernando peeping as from behind a door. D. Fer. 
Here not a word can scape me.  Silvia Elvira 
Madam you wrong my zeal, in serving you,  
Whilst you attribute to any other motive  
My yesterday behaviour.  D. Blan. 

* In a tone that may show what she says to b'forced.  Such niceties Elvira are out of season,  
I seek your satisfaction in a Love,  
Wherein it seems you have been long engaged.  Donna Elvira looking round, and Fernando starting back. D. Fer. 
I hope she did not see me.  Aside. D. Elu. 
My satisfaction say you, in my Love,  
Of whom for heaven's sake? If you mean Don Zancho,  
You're very far from guessing at my thoughts.  D. Fer. 
By heaven S'has seen me, and plays the Devil still.  Aside. D. Elu. 
By all that's good, I am far from loving him,  

* Aside.  I say not worse because I know she loves him.  D. Fer. 
Ah Elvira! this is too much, yet not enough  
To change in me, a Noble resolution.  A noise is heard as of people coming up stairs. D. Blan. 
I hear some coming up stairs, should it be  Aside. 
Don Zancho, I am not yet ready for him,  

* [To Elvira.  I see we are likely to be interrupted here  
Elvira, we shall be better in my Closet.  Exit Blanca. D. Elu. 
Madam, I'll follow you.  
What can she mean? since that she needs must think,  
I know the passion she herself has for him.  Elvira having stayed a while behind, as she is going to follow Blanca. Enter her Father Don Pedro, and Fulvio, she starts and stands confounded; He seeing her draws out his Dagger and makes at her. D. Ped. 
Vile stainer of my blood, have I here found thee?  Elvira perceiving the door a little open where Don Fernando is, flies thither and gets in. D. Fer. 
This makes it clear she saw me.  Aside as Elvira thrusts in. Don Pedro seizes the door before it be quite shut, and they struggle, he to pull it open, and Don Fernando to shut it, who after some contest, Don Fernando gets it close, and bolts it within: Don Pedro as an enraged person pulls and bounces at the door. D. Ped. 
In vain should Mountains interpose, between  
Her and her punishment.  He bounces still as to break down the door. Enter Donna Blanca. D. Blan. 
What Bedlam have we here? and where's Elvira?  D. Ped. 
You have one here, will know how to revenge  
Conspiracies to affront him; And you Lady  
Who ere you are, that seem to take upon you,  
you'd best produce the wicked thing you have named,  
Or by this Steel—  Donna Blanca cries out. Don. Blan. 
Ho! brother, brother, help against a madman.  Enter Don Julio. D. Jul. 
Peace, Blanca, peace, you know not what you say,  
Don Pedro is Master here.  D. Blan. 
I know not your Don Pedro, but I'm sure  
One to be tied in Chains, could do no more  
Than he has done.  D. Jul. 
Have patience Sister; 'Tis Elvira's Father,  
With cares enough upon him to justify  
Any distemper.  Blan. 
—— Precious Elvira's Father;  
Nay, than I leave you.  Blanca flings out of the Room. Jul. 
O the unluckiness of his coming  Aside. 
So unseasonably; 'Twas to prevent that,  
I went abroad to seek him.  D. Ped. 
What's this Don Julio? can a Gentleman  
Of Blood, and Honour, use another thus?  
What after such engagements to the Duke,  
And to myself, to be my friend and helper,  
To prove the shelterer of my shame's chief Author;  
I do not wonder now, Don Zancho himself,  
Should have been here at midnight.  D. Jul. 
I am hard put to't, help wit to bring us off.  Aside. 

* [To him.  Be as distempered as you please Don Pedro,  
It shall not alter me. But yet methinks  
It would not ill become your gravity,  
To think a while, before you make a judgement,  
And rashly frame injurious conclusions,  
From things wherein a friend has merited from you:  
Do but consider, and then say, what Julio  
Could do of more advance to what you wish,  
Then having found your Daughter, to have brought her  
To his own house, where she might be with honour  
Accompanied, and served as such, by Blanca,  
Until such time, as things maturely weighed,  
You should a final resolution take.  
And since Don Zancho's being here last night,  
I see's no secrett'ee, methinks you ought  
T' have been so just to me, as to believe  
That since I admitted him within these walls,  
It was in order to the serving you.  D. Ped. 
Noble Don Julio, you must pity have  
Of an old man's distemper in affliction,  
I see I was in the wrong, pray pardon it.  D. Jul. 
O this is more than needs, and now good Sir,  
If you'll be pleased to walk a turn or two  
I'th' Garden, I'll there give you a full account,  
How I have laid things for your satisfaction.  D. Ped. 
I'll wait on you.  D. Jul. 
— Go Sir, there lies your way:  

* (Turning (to the Page.  And you boy fail not when Don Zancho comes  
To give me notice of it in the Garden.  Exeunt. Enter Don Zancho and passes over the Stage with Chichon after him, and Enter Francisca, and pulling Chichon stays him. Fran. 
Stay, stay, Chichon, a word w'e, it imports.  She whispers (with him. Chic. 
I hope you are not in earnest.  Fran. 
— By my soul I am;  
There is no other way, but for us both  
To get up the back way, and there to watch  
The time to interpose.  Chic. 
Can she be such a Fury? her looks are  
All milk and honey.  Fran. 
You cannot fancy any thing so Tragic,  
But she is capable of executing,  
When once provoked in point of Love and Honour,  
Beyond her bounds of temper.  Chic. 
— Lead the way.  

* [Aside  I'll have the pleasure to hold up the fright  
She's in, since I am sure there is no danger,  
Knowing as I do my Master's mind towards Blanca;  
Besides 'tis to be hoped, that these disorders  
May produce somewhat that may put an end  
To my Master's Quarrel, or afford me means  
To give Fernando his Letter.  Exeunt. Enter D. Fer. Elvira lying upon the Couch in the private A. D. Fer. 
This last dissimulation moves me more  partment. 
Then all the rest, but yet it must not alter  
What honour hath inspired, see how she lies  
And how scarce brought to life from her dismay,  
She resumes scorn, to have been saved by me;  
But multiply what injuries thou wilt,  
Perfidious Maid, thou shall't not disappoint  
Fernando of the glory that he aims at,  
Of making thy proud heart Elvira, owe  
Its happiness to him.  
— But I hear again  
A noise without  He peeps. 
— 'Tis Don Zancho,  
And I see Blanca coming towards him;  
This falls out luckily, that I may hear  
What passes, for certainly their meeting  
Avowedly thus, can be no other Subject,  
But what Don Julio has proposed to Blanca.  Exit as to go hearken. Enter Don Julio and Don Pedro as in the Garden. D. Jul. 
That's all the remedy, that in these cases  
The wisest can propose unto themselves,  
His fortune's straight 'tis true.  D. Ped. 
That's what I least regard, in this occasion,  
So honour be but safe, the less they have,  
The more will be her penance for her folly;  
But should Don Zancho upon any Umbrage,  
From what has passed between them, prove so Insolent  
As to reject the marriage, Then I trust—  Jul. 
O say no more of that, Rely upon't,  
Should he be guilty of that horrid Outrage,  
This Sword should pierce his heart, tho' th' only friend  
I have i' th' world, should interpose his own;  
And Sir, to let you see my frank proceeding,  
Come along with me, I'll bring you to a place  
Where jointly over hearing all that passes  
'Twixt him and Blanca, should he play the Villain,  
His life may pay for't, ear he stir from thence.  D. Ped. 
May heaven repay such generous acts of friendship.  Exeunt Enter Don Zancho, and Fernando appears as behind the door. D. Zanc. 
For her so suddenly, and so avow'dly  
To send for me hither, is very strange,  
What can it mean?  Enter Blanca. D. Blan. 
Now lend me temper heaven, but for a moment,  Aside 
Till calmly I have drawn him to pronounce  
The sentence of his own too noble death  
For such a Traitor.  

* To him with an affected cheerfulness.  I think you come not without some surprise  
Don Zancho, at my sending for you so,  
But let's sit down for I have much to say t'ee.  She takes him by the hand, and seats him in one Chair, and she sets herself in the other close to him on his right hand, and fumbles in her sleeve. D. Blan. 
I'm so well placed I cannot miss the mark.  Aside. D. Zanc. 
Good Madam, what's the matter for I see  
Disorder in you, put me out of pain.  D. Blan. 
That I shall quickly do.  
— Know then Don Zancho,  
In the first place, you must not interrupt me,  
What ever you shall hear; I'll take it ill else  
When I have done, then speak your mind at leisure,  
I come not to argue, but conclude.  D. Zanc. 
Your will's a Law to me,  
— 
* [Aside.  But whither tends all this?  D. Blan. 
I do for once, allow you to remember,  
All that has passed between us,  
The folly of my Love, The falsehood of yours;  
That done, And never to be thought on more.  D. Zanc. 
For heaven's sake Madam—  D. Blan. 
— Break not the Rule was set.  
Know I instructed am in all your story,  
And am so far grown Mistress of myself,  
That I who th'other day, could scarce o'er come  
The sense of a slight failour at Madrid,  
Can here at home suffer Indignities:  
And tell you calmly, and with unconcernedness,  
Be you Elvira's, and Elvira yours,  
I come to do a part you little looked for  
From Blanca's spirit, I must make the marriage,  
All things are ready, and her Father here,  
Now you may speak Don Zancho, but the thing  
Admit's of no delay.  D. Zanc. 

* Pausing a while.  But can this be in earnest? sure it cannot;  
What need these trials of so firm a faith?  D. Blan. 
Leave triflng, 'tis no longer time for tricks,  
It is not in the power of fare to alter  
The resolutions taken.  Don Zancho pawses. D. Fer. 
— She has put it home.  Aside. D. Zan. 
Madam, you use me hardly, this demeanour  
Passes my skill, to judge from whence it springs;  
You say it is not in the power of fate,  
To change your resolutions; but I'm sure  
If they be such, 'twill less be in its power  
To alter mine; but yet before I die  
You must be left without excuse, by knowing  
The truth of all.  D. Fer. 
Here it imports indeed to be attentive.  Aside. D. Zanc. 
Madam, 'tis true, that absent at Madrid,  
The custom of the Court, and Vanity,  
Embarked me lightly in a Gallantry,  
With the most famed of beauties there Elvira;  
Those, and no other, the true Motives were,  
To all my first addresses, till her scorns  
Which should have stopped them, had engaged me more  
And made a Love in jest, a point of honour:  
I bo●● all her disdains, without transportment,  
Till having gained her waiting Woman's kindness,  
I learned from her, that all Elvira's slight  
She would have thought, had sprung from severe Maxims,  
And preciousness of humour, were the effects  
Of deep engagement in another Love,  
With a young Gallant Don Fernando Solis,  
With whom the cruel Dame, was so far gone;  
As to admit him almost every night  
Into her Chamber.  D. Fer. 
— Blessed gods what do I hear?  Aside. D. Zancho [Continuing.] 
I scarce believing the thing possible,  
Urged my Intelligencer, to do for me  
That which her Lady for another did,  
And to admit me to her Chamber, where  
By being Eye witness of her Lady's actions,  
I might transfer my entire love to herself.  
She granted my request, and late one Night  
Somewhat before the Gallant's usual hour,  
She brought me a back way up into her Chamber,  
Within Elvira's; my stay had not been long,  
When having found the truth of what she had told me,  
Converting rage into appearing kindness  
To my informer, and expressing it  
Uncautiously, we made a sudden noise,  
With which Elvira alarmed, and coming in,  
Followed by Don Fernando; That fell out,  
Which you have heard before.  Don Julio beckoning Don Pedro after him, passing over a corner of the Stage. D. Jul. 
By this time, I suppose, she will have made  
The proposition to the full, and we  
Shall come at the just time to hear his answer.  Exeunt Don Pedro and Don Julio. Don Zancho [Continuing.] 
If since that hour, I have ever seen  
Or thought upon her, till last night's surprise,  
May I for ever perish; And methinks  
The use I made of that, to your advantage,  
Might challenge from you, a more just construction.  Don. Blan. 
I told you at first, I came not here to argue  
But to conclude; say, will you marry her?  Don Julio and Don Pedro peep out as from behind the hanging. Don Jul. 
We're come you see, just as we could have wished.  Don Ped. 
His fate hangs on his Lips.  To Blanca. Don Zanc. 
You are Mistress of your words, and actions Madam,  
And may use me as you please; But this hand  
Shall sooner pierce this heart, then ere be given  
In marriage to Elvira.  Don Pedro and Don Julio rush in with their swords and daggers drawn, and Don Zancho draws too. D. Ped. 
Then Villain die, heaven is too weak to save thee  
By any other means.  Fernando draws and rushing out. Don Fer. 
— But here is one that shall,  
Or fall by his side.  D. Ped. 
— O heaven! what's this?  
Don Fernando Solis protecting him,  
Nay, than the whole world conspires against my Honour.  Don. Blan. 
For heaven's sake Gentlemen!  Donna Blanca runs in between. Chic. 
Now by my Grandam's Pantable 'tis pretty,  From behind. 
I'll brush their Coats if once it come to fighting,  
Fernondo's of our side.  Francisca and Chichon with a long Broom run out also from behind the hanging. Don Jul. 
What frensie's this Fernando? was't not you  
Engaged me to effect the Marriage? sure we're all  
Bewitched.  D. Fer. 
— Stay my Don Julio, stay,  
And let Don Pedro have patience but to hear me;  
'Tis true, but you know well upon what grounds  
Those are quite changed, by my having over heard  
All that hath past; For my Elvira, Julio,  
Proves spotless in her faith, as in her Beauty,  
And I the only guilty, to have doubted:  
What have I then to do, but here to prostrate  
Myself at her offended Father's feet,  
And beg his pardon? That obtained, t'implore  
His help, to gain me hers, as to a person  
In whom respect for him, hath always held  
Proportion with my passion for his Daughter.  D. Ped. 
You know Don Julio, when I spoke with you,  
The terms of estimation, and respect  
Wherewith I mentioned t'ee this Gentleman,  
And therefore since in his address t'Elvira  
There was no other fault, but making it  
Unknown to me; And that I see his thoughts  
Are truly Noble; Honour thus engaged,  
That aught to be forgot, and I to think  
Myself most happy, in such a Son-in-law:  
But where's Elvira?  D. Fer. 
She's there within, where I dare not appear  
Before her, knowing now such guilt upon me,  
If Blanca would employ her Interest  
And eloquence, perhaps she might prevail  
To get her hither, when she shall have told her  
What changes a few minute's time hath wrought.  D. Blan. 
I never went on a more pleasing Arrant.  Exit Don Blanca and Francisca. Fran. 

* As she goes out.  I am struck dumb with wonder.  D. Fer. 
Now Blanca is away, I'll take this time  
To spare her blushes Julio, and tell you  
Though I have broke one marriage for Don Zancho,  
You needs must give me leave to make another,  
To which unless I'm very much deceived,  
You'll find on neither part repugnancy.  D. Jul. 
I understand you, and I thank the gods  
They did not make me understand the wrong,  
Till they have made it none, since I observe  
Don Zancho's looks joining in your desires.  D. Zanc. 
A heart so full of love as mine for Blanca,  
Does best express itself, when it speaks least.  Enter Donna Blanca, Donna Elvira and Francisca. Elvira casts herself at her Father's feet. D. Elu. 
Now that the justice of the gods, at length  
Hath cleared me from suspicions, derogatory  
To th'honour of your blood, I hope a Cloister  
May expiate my fault as to a Father.  Raising her. D. Ped. 
Rise Child, The Enclosure I condemn you to  
Is Don Fernando's Arms, give him your hand.  D. Elu. 
'Tis yours Sir, to dispose of I confess,  
And if it be your will, I must submit;  
But let him know, who could suspect Elvira,  
She never could be his, but by obedience.  D. Fer. 
I am Thunder struck.  Elvira giving him her hand. D. Elu. 
— Be not dismayed Fernando.  
Since I profess this a mere act of duty,  
Another duty may Elvira move,  
To re-inflame on better grounds her Love.  D. Jul. [Ironically.] 
Blanca I fear you'll hardly be persuaded  
To give yours to Don Zancho; But a Brother.  
For once may play the Tyrant; Give it him,  
It must be so.  They join hands. D. Fer. 
I now renounce old Maxims, having you  
Elvira, I am sure, The very best proves true.  Chic. 
Hold there, I beg you Sir, That will appear  
By that time you have Married been a Year.   
FINIS.