NICOMEDE.  
A Tragicomedy, Translated out of the French OF MONSIEUR CORNEILLE, By JOHN DANCER.  
As it was Acted at the Theatre-Royal DUBLIN.  
Together with an Exact Catalogue of all the English stageplays printed, till this present Year 1671.  

Licenced  
Dec. 16. 1670. Roger L'estrange.   
LONDON: Printed for Francis Kirkman, and are to be sold at his Shop in Thames-street over against the Customhouse. 1671.   

TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE THOMAS, Earl of Ossory.  
My Lord,  
THis PIECE being made English in your Honour's Service, and by your Command, having already passed the Suffrage of the Stage, and now made more public by passing the Press, I thought it my Duty (in the Author's absence) to present it to your Honour: I shall not say any thing of the PLAY, because I had no hand in it; but I have made bold to that, to add a Catalogue of all the English Plays hitherto printed. I have done it as perfectly as I can, in respect that nothing which is imperfect aught to be presented to your Honor. If you accept and peruse it, it is the utmost ambition of  
Your Honours humble Servant, Fra: Kirkman.   

The Actors.  

PRUISAS', King of Bithynia.  
FLAMINIUS', The Roman Ambassador.  
ARSINOE, Second Wife to King Prusias.  
LAODICE, Queen of Armenia.  
NICOMEDE, Eldest Son of King Prusias, by a former venture.  
ATTALUS, Son of Prusias and Arsinoe.  
ARASPES, Captain of the Guards to Prusias.  
CLEONE, Confident to Arsinoe.   
The Scene at Nicomedia.   

NICHOMEDE. A Tragicomedy.  


ACT I. SCENE I.  Nichomede and Laodice. Laod. 
MY Joys Sir, must exceed, to find that you,  
To whom so many glorious Wreaths are due,  
My Chains, to all these Laurels can prefer,  
And be my Captive, though a Conqueror,  
That all those Actions which the World dismay,  
To such low Merits should their Homage pay;  
And yet amidst this height of Joy, I find  
A secret Passion which afflicts my mind.  
With fear I see you fear that springs from Love,  
Doubtful this Court to you may fatal prove.  
You have a subtle Stepdame, Sir, whose wit  
Has made your Father to her Charms submit,  
And she does manage him with so much Skill,  
He's but the Property to act her Will;  
What She enjoins more force than Law does bear,  
And then what Safety can you hope for here?  
Besides her Hate, which was enough before,  
Is from our mutual Love, increased to more,  
And now her Son, your Brother's returned too,  Nicho. 
I know it, Madam, and that he courts you.  
The Romans did him home from Hostage send,  
Not out of kindness, but a weightier end.  
I too well find what 'twas did him recall,  
He was Flaminia's price for Hannibal.  
That mighty Man was for his Ransom paid,  
And by the King had been to Rome betrayed,  
Had not his Courage taught him how to free  
Himself by Poison, from that Slavery,  
Which gazing Romans exercise on those  
Who were their Terror, whilst they stood their Foes.  
'Twas not till after my last happy Fight  
Which Cappadocia's Kingdom did unite  
To our Bithynia, I this News did hear  
Which made me weep for him, and for you fear:  
That Fear begat an Anger would break forth,  
So to Theagenes, whose steady worth  
I knew, I of the Army gave command,  
And hither flew, these Troubles to withstand,  
Hoping my presence would my Queen oblige,  
For still Flaminius does the King besiege,  
And if that Hannibal his Errand were,  
He, being dead, why stays he longer here?  
Unless it be, which I believe too true,  
To aid my Brothers weak pretence to you.  Laodice. 
I doubt not, but this Roman virtue may  
Strive to oblige the Queen in her own way;  
That bloody Sacrifice she paid to him,  
Must have engaged him to the utmost crime:  
But, be it so, yet why should you complain,  
Why should you fear the worst he can obtain?  
My love o'er you a weak Ascendant hath,  
If 'tis your Presence, must secure its faith.  
That Spirit must be mean, which does prefer  
Poor Attalus, to Asia's Conqueror.  
Att'lus, of whom the most that can be said,  
Is that he was a Roman Hostage bred,  
And at full height of Courage will appear  
To shake at Eagles, and an Adile fear.  Nicho. 
Death, Madam, Death, shall here an Empire gain,  
ere I such jealous thoughts do entertain:  
I Force from them, not weakness fear in you,  
For what if Rome appear against us too—  Laodice. 
Sir, I'm a Queen, and bear that Noble Soul,  
Which Rome, nor your Kings Thund'ring can't control.  
Though he my Guardian be, he cannot have  
More power o'er me than what my Father gave.  
Whose Will having designed me yours, there's none  
Can choose elsewhere for me, but I alone.  
By my own choice, and by my Father's care  
I'm destined Spouse to the Bithinian Heir.  
And this great Heart of mine will never bend  
To let a Subjects Right o'er it pretend.  
Banish your doubts.  Nicho. 
Ah Madam, let me fear  
Whilst I behold you thus exposed are  
Unto a Fury, who both hath the Will,  
And Power to act, all she conceives of ill.  
Who, but to place a Crown on her Son's Brow,  
Would Justice, Law, and Nature overthrow,  
And greedily the sacredst Rights invade:  
She may force you, who Hannibal betrayed.  
Nor can there Faith from those expected be  
Who break the Laws of Hospitality.  Laod. 
As little Nature's Laws will you protect  
From those who to such Rights show no respect.  
Your being here advances her Design,  
And does expose both your own Life and mine.  
Coming without leave, some suspicion wears,  
And she will buzz it in your Father's Ears.  
Who by her Charms too soon will be inclined  
To sacrifice you to his jealous Mind.  
Then I, who stood so firm before, become  
A Victim to the Mother and the Son.  Nich. 
'Twas fear of you that made me take this course  Laodice 
Whilst you were in the Camp I feared no force:  
This, this Sir, you for my support should do,  
Order things so that they may still fear you.  
Back to your Army, then protect me there,  
They are secure to act whilst you are here.  
But Armies Rules to Politicians teach,  
And you may boldly do it out of reach.  
Valour, though high, to numbers still must yield,  
You're but one here, they none, when you're i'th' Field.  
And though the noise of Victory sound high,  
'Tis seldom Fame has quelled an Enemy.  
Sir, were you both the World's Delight and Dread,  
Entering the Court, you tamely yield your Head.  
Once more I say return, by that Renown  
You there have gained, you here will best be known:  
Return, and with your own, secure my Fate,  
You banish mine, when you their Fears create.  Nicho. 
Ah! To the Camp persuade me not to go,  
There the Queen's Hate, her Murderers do sow  
Secret and thick: Two I have brought along,  
By their Confessions to make known my Wrong,  
And disabuse the King, who though he be  
Husband to her, is Father still to me.  
And though she Nature should to silence charm,  
Yet three great Kingdoms added by this Arm  
Unto his Crown, will loudly let him know,  
That he does something to my Valour ow.  
Or if that by the Rigour of my Fate,  
I must become the Victim of her Hate.  
If both the Camp and Court my Life pursue;  
Will you deny me then to die by you?  Laodice 
My past Advice I trembling now recall,  
If we must die, let us together fall.  
Courage, brave Prince, they may perhaps ensnare  
Themselves, in those Traps they for us prepare.  
The People love you, and abhor their Arts,  
And he Reigns safest who does Reign o'er Hearts.  
But here's your Brother—  Nicho. 
Since he does not know  
Who I am, keep me undiscovered now.   

SCENE II.  Laodice, Nichomode and Attalus. Attalus. 
Must then the Charms dwell in those Eyes appear  
Only to me, of all the World, severe?  
Shall I ne'er gain one of those blessed regards,  
With which you, Madam, use to conquer Hearts?  Laod. 
To conquer yours, if these Sir, don't suffice,  
When I designed, I'll speak it by my Eyes.  Atta. 
Of what's all yours, you can no Conquest make.  Laod. 
Then a more pleasing Mein, I need not take.  Atta. 
But yet to keep that heart, I must implore.  Laod. 
I rather had such ill got Goods restore.  Atta. 
It's Value is too poor, your Soul to touch.  Laod. 
To juggle Sir, I value you too much,  
Our distance of Degree admits it not,  
Then for the heart you tell me I have got,  
Where should't be kept?  Atta. 
Ah Madam, in your Breast,  Laod. 
That Place is by another, Sir, possessed.  
And you so oft hath this great Truth been told,  
That your Address as senseless is as bold.  Atta. 
Happy the Man, whom Fortune so does grace,  
To give admission to so blessed a Place.  
But I should think him happier far who might,  
Fairly dispute, and gain from him this Right.  Nicho. 
ere that be done Rivers with Blood must swell,  
This Conqueror Sir, preserves his Conquest well.  
Go ask his Foes, 'mongst them 'twill best be known,  
What 'tis to gain that Fort he once has won.  Atta. 
But there is one who will assault it so,  
That he must yield it where he will or no.  Laod. 
You may mistake,  Atta. 
If the King be the Man.  Laod. 
He's just and wise, and wills but what he can.  Atta. 
And what cannot his Sovereign Greatness do?  Laod. 
Talk not so high, he knows what is my Due.  
Though King, he acts as to a Queen with me,  
That's not by Force, but by Civility.  Atta. 
There's much included in the civil prayer  
Of Kings, unto whose power we subject are.  
But if a King's request can take no place,  
Yet Rome with hers will my Addresses grace.  Nico. 
Rome Sir?  Atta. 
Yes Rome, do you her kindness fear?  Nico. 
No Sir, but lest some Roman overhear,  
For if Rome knew th' Addresses by you made,  
you'd gain her Anger, whilst you hope her Aid.  
Scorning to see her Nursling own a Flame  
Injurous to the lustre of her Name.  
That Title which does so much glory wear,  
Of Roman Citizen, sheeled from you tear,  
For she too mighty thinks it to bestow  
On that poor soul, can to a Queen's love bow.  
Have you forgot that neither King, nor Queen,  
Rome equal to a Burgess do esteem.  
If she have formed in you that generous Mind,  
Let her th' impressions of her Maxims find.  
Resume a pride then worthy her and you,  
And studying something to your glory due,  
Pursue this Ignominious Flame no more,  
But ceasing the Armenian Queen to adore.  
Seek out a Love more worthy your high place,  
That's of some Tribunes or a Praetor's Race.  
For such a high-born Match Rome thinks you fit,  
And lest your Royal Birth exclude you it.  
By her Adoption you have put on,  
Authority for such Ambition.  
Break loose then, Sir, from this reproachful Chain,  
And leaving Queens to Kings they so disdain.  
For things more vast and high, your thoughts reserve,  
And so your greatness, and Rome's pride preserve.  Attalus. 
If this man, Madam, do to you belong,  
Forbid his boldness, or restrain his Tongue,  
That I his utmost insolence might hear,  
I yet have forced my Anger to forbear,  
But if he shall continue in this strain,  
To smother 't longer, I shall strive in vain.  Nicho. 
No matter, Sir, to whom I do belong  
Can Reason lose its value on my tongue?  
Set Love apart, and I'll be judged by you,  
What Glories to this Roman Name are due,  
The King and Queen, so high the Title prized,  
They'll not be pleased to see it now despised.  
Their value of the mighty thing appears  
In giving up to it your Infant years.  
From four years old 't has robbed them of your sight,  
Can you think now, they will that Glory slight.  
Or suffer for the Marriage of a Queen,  
You forfeit Honours they so much esteem;  
No rather jealous of so rare a Treasure.  Attalus. 
Madam, once more I ask, Is it your pleasure,  
That insolent man of me, this scorn should make?  
Or is 't from you he does his freedom take?  Laod. 
Since talking to you as a Roman, he  
Offends you Sir, give me the liberty,  
To treat you in a way which you may own  
With no less Honour, that's a Monarchs Son.  
But Sir, in this degree you must allow  
You to a Prince your Elder, aught to bow.  
That though so near allied in blood you be,  
It takes not from his difference of degree,  
But to his Birth there ought respect be paid,  
Yet you, he absent, does his Rights invade.  Atta. 
If that Right be the Honour to be yours,  
One word from you, that Right for me procures.  
And if my Birth does lessen my degree,  
'Tis by you, Nature's fault repaired may be;  
But if as a King's Son, I so much owe,  
Permit that I speak like a Roman now.  
And know there's none born so, but are designed  
To command Monarchs, and be unconfined;  
Know that my Love's the Project of a Soul,  
Contemns Subjection, and disdains Control;  
Know that—  Laod. 
I know that in my Crown you find  
More Charms, than in my Person, or my Mind;  
But such as I am, both my Crown and Me,  
Are vowed that Brothers, who your King must be;  
And were He here, his Presence might give end  
To all this mighty Passion you pretend.  Attalus. 
Might I but see him, he should know from me—  Nicho. 
Beware, such Wishes, Sir, may dangerous be;  
For if he hear them, you may chance to prove  
The Vengeance due on those attempts his Love.  Atta. 
Sir, you shall pay me that Respect is due.  Nicho. 
I know not who omits it of us two.  Atta. 
Whilst thou know'st me, dar'st thou thus boldly prate?  Nicho. 
By knowing you Prince, I can set my Rate,  
But you being ignorant of my Degree,  
Cannot tell what you ought to pay to me.  Atta. 
Ah Madam, suffer my just Anger may  Laod. 
Yes, yes; but now your Mother comes this way.   

SCENE III.  Nichomede, Arsinoe, Laodice, Attalus, and Cleone. Nicho. 
Pray Madam, let the Prince your Son here, know  
What's the Respect he unto me does owe;  
For want of it he is outrageous grown,  
A fault which surely does but ill become  
Such rare bred Minds.  Arsinoe. 
Sir, do I then see you!  Nicho. 
Yes, and you shall see Mithrobates too.  Arsinoe. 
Oh that's a Traitor!  Nicho. 
He talks something true,  
You best know if it ought to trouble you.  Arsinoe. 
This swift Return I cannot understand,  
Where is your Army?  Nicho. 
Under good command.  
Of my return you soon the Cause shall hear,  
I left a Master and a Mistress here.  
One Rome and you have taken frommy Cares,  
Tother I'll save both from your Hands and theirs.  Arsin. 
Is this the Cause that does you hither bring?  Nicho. 
Yes, and I hope you'll serve me with the King.  Arsin. 
Yes Sir, I'll serve you, just as you hope so:  Nicho. 
Of your good will I the assurance know.  Arsin. 
I'll go and to the King this Business move.  Nicho. 
And I'll go think how I may grateful prove.  Arsin. 
Do so, you may depend upon my Care,  Nicho. 
Whilst I know yours, you guess what my thoughts are  Atta. 
Madam, is this Prince Nichomede?  Nicho. 
Yes Sir,  
Who comes to see if Rome can you prefer,  
To him.  Attalus. 
Excuse me if I did not know.  Nicho. 
Yourself Prince, a deserving Rival show.  
And if you dare design t'assault me here,  
Still in your looks a noble boldness wear.  
But as I to her Aid, am singly come,  
Threaten me not with the King's Power, or Rome;  
As I defend, do you attempt alone,  
I'll set by all pretences to the Crown.  
Try it thus Prince, and we shall soon see then  
If Rome, or Hannibal breeds braver Men.   

SCENE IU.  Arsinoe, Attalus, and Cleone. Arsin. 
Go, that Excuse of thine to him was base,  
When thou beheldst him brave me to my Face.  Atta. 
Madam, what could I do in this Surprise?  
This quick return destroys your Enterprise.  Arsin. 
No Attalus, it gives it Life, and Heart,  
Go thou and find Flaminius on my part.  
Let him in private here conducted be,  
And of thy Fortunes leave the Cure to me.  Atta. 
But Madam, if—  Arsin. 
Go, no more if, nor and,  
When done, thou these Intrigues shalt understand.   

SCENE V.  Arsinoe, Cleone. Cleo. 
Madam, do you hide from him his own Concern?  Arsin. 
Yes, and have Reasons thou dost not discern.  
I fear his heart would my Designs oppose,  
I fear that virtue which to Rome he owes  
Has taught him, there's no Glory so sublime,  
Can recompense the hazard of a Crime.  Cleon. 
Those should guests Rome less scrupulous, who knew  
How Hannibal she did to death pursue.  Arsinoe. 
Be not in charging Rome with Guilt deceived,  
'Twas I, and but one Roman, who contrived  
The whole Intrigue of that great Heroes Fall;  
Rome still had granted Life to Hannibal,  
And would not for a more inviting Cause,  
Have made a Breach of hospitable Laws;  
For though whilst she did his great Conduct know,  
Prudence forbade his Sojourn with a Foe,  
And therefore to make good his Peace with them,  
Antiochus was forced to banish him.  
Yet freed both from Rome's Envy, or her Fear,  
We being Allies, he might have still lived here.  
Had not Revenge prompted Flaminius too,  
Things which the Senate would have blushed to do.  Cleone. 
What desperate Cause could raise his Hate so high,  
That to allay it, Hannibal must die?  Arsin. 
A Father's Loss of Honour, and of Life,  
Hast thou not heard, how in that fatal strife  
'Twixt Rome, and Galilee, in one bloody Scene,  
Acted nigh to the Lake of Thrasimene,  
Flaminius Father, then Rome's General,  
Fell by the mighty Hand of Hannibal?  
The Son since burning to revenge that shame,  
A close Conspirator with me became,  
And for to have the object of his Hate  
Delivered up, procured the Roman State  
To send my Attalus from Hostage home,  
And farther whispered Jealousies in Rome  
Of Nichomede's Conquests here, which might  
(Should he to them the Armenian Realm unite  
By Marriage with Laodice) one day  
To Rome's increasing Greatness put a stay;  
On which the Senate, who now jealous grew  
Of such an Empire, and such Valour too,  
Did him as their Ambassador propound,  
To break the Marriage, and the Empire bound:  
And this is what Rome undertook to do.  Cleone. 
And this makes Attalus, his Mistress woo,  
But yet, why did not Rome herself concern,  
ere his Return had made her Love too firm?  Arsin. 
No, for whilst he a conquering Army led,  
'T had been too much to affront him at their Head.  
Here we dare do't, and 'twas my Plot at length,  
By cunning slights to draw him from his Strength;  
To Mithrobates, I did teach the way,  
Who seeming false to me, did him betray,  
Whispering a thousand pannique Fears, that he  
Had been to murder him, suborned by me,  
That fiery Spirit by degrees he won,  
And gently leads him to destruction.  
I know he'll to the King for Justice call,  
But from that Justice he shall find his Fall.  
His Accusations as my Engines move,  
Will fortify me in his Fathers Love.  
At his first sight I did appear dismayed,  
And by my change of colour seemed afraid;  
But he mistakes much that Surprise of mine,  
Since his Return, was wholly my Design.  Cleone. 
But what e'er Rome or Attalus pretend,  
That Queen will never to his wishes bend.  Arsin. 
The Love he shows to her I have designed  
Only the King, the Court, and Rome to blind,  
Not that I would the Armenian Crown procure,  
But our Bithinian, for my Son secure.  
That done, I care not where the Queen espouse,  
But freely leave her whom she please to choose.  
This Passion of my Sons if only pressed,  
To raise fresh Tempests in the Prince's Breast;  
Who when he sees the King set on by Rome,  
An Advocate for Attalus become,  
Will grow outrageous, and induced be,  
To brave that Father is as fierce as he.  
Whose's Heat by cunning ways to Flames I'll blow,  
And work this daring Lovers overthrow,  
Before he blinded by his Love, shall see,  
The least intrigue of this great Mystery.  
By this thou seest all that I do pretend,  
But sure Flaminius dos me now attend.  
I'll go— the Secrets of thy Queen preserve,  Cleone. 
My Faith long tried does not a Doubt deserve.    


ACT II. SCENE I.  Prusias, and Araspes. Prusia. 
WIthout my Orders, durst he then come here?  Arasp. 
Pardon, Great Sir, you wrong him if you fear;  
Prince Nichomede's Thoughts are all so just,  
'Twere injury to virtue to mistrust.  
'Tis true you any other might suspect,  
This quick return does seem to want respect.  
And might give place to doubtful Thoughts, to know,  
The Springs from whence does such impatience flow.  Prusi. 
I see 'em well, this Act appears to me,  
A pure Attempt on my Authority;  
His happy Victories have raised his Soul  
So high, that now he does abhor Control  
Scorns to depend, and thinks he has a Right  
To Rule, since he has purchased it by Fight.  
Heroes, like him, believe when they obey,  
Their Glories and their Greatness they betray.  
And cast a shadow o'er their mighty Deeds:  Arasp. 
Sir, heat of blood in youth that Humour feeds.  
Their to wring Spirits are by success blown high,  
And whilst Camps do their Fortunes deify.  
They of Command gain such a habitude,  
Obedience after seems severe and rude.  Prusias. 
Speak all Araspes, say a Subjects name  
Sullies their Acts, and does eclipse their Fame.  
That though Fate does design 'em Crowns, they grow  
Impatient, if her motions be too slow.  
That they conceive that Father does them wrong,  
Who makes them tarry for their Right too long.  
That hence 'tis first they Factions seek to raise,  
Gaining our Subjects hearts, by secret ways.  
And then if still to us a life they spare,  
Granting us a few days perplexed with Care,  
Yet insolent and disobedient grown,  
They leave us but the shadow of a Crown.  Atta. 
This might of others Sir, be the Intent,  
And what would ask sit Counsel to prevent;  
But here Advice like that would ill become,  
You're a kind Father, he a virtuous Son.  Prusi 
Were I not kind, how faulty must he prove?  
His innocence depends upon my Love.  
'Tis only that makes his offence be none,  
Or only that will rob me of my Crown.  
For my experience tells me youth in vain,  
Opposes Virtue to desire of Reign.  
Ambition, is a thriving Plant, and finds  
Its proper Soil in such heroic Minds.  
How oft is't writ in Characters of blood,  
Man's Itch of Rule, could never be withstood.  
For if that Passion once our hearts surprise,  
Religion's dumb, and Nature has no Eyes.  Arasp. 
Sir, these reflections cannot sure be due  
To that high Service, he has done for you.  Pru. 
Araspes, this I from his Service own,  
Increasing of my Power heleaves me none.  
He's not my Subject now, unless he please,  
Who makes me Reign, may Reign himself with ease:  
In short, his Merit's grown so bright, and high,  
Its dazzling Lustre does offend my Eye.  
For naturally we abhor the sight  
Of those, whose benefits we can't requite.  
All his great Acts speak here at his approach,  
And so his presence is a close reproach;  
Which tells me, thrice he has these Temples crowned,  
That all I can give him's a Spot of Ground  
To these Dominions, which his conquering Hand,  
And prosperous Valour adds to my Command.  
Thus I must blush, though I prorogue my Fear,  
And shames a Burden Monarchs cannot bear.  
Shame, in whose boiling Jealousies I find  
Those pestilent disturbers of my mind,  
Which tells me, that he may do what he will,  
And Crowns are Sovereign Prompters to do ill.  Arasp. 
In any other whom you might mistrust,  
I know what Policies were safe and just;  
That Subject must be false, who's grown too high,  
Although he never thought a Treachery.  
Power Sir, in Subjects is a Crime of State,  
Which prudent Princes, ere it be too late,  
By wisely clipping of their Wings, prevent  
From meriting severer Punishment.  
But for the Prince, his thoughts from crimes are free  
And all so just—  Prusias. 
Wilt thou his Surety be?  
Thinkst thou but he his utmost power will prove,  
To revenge Hannibal, or save his Love?  
Can he behold, and yet no force pretend,  
A Rival Brother, and a Slaughtered Friend?  
No, no, he does his Vengeance now pursue,  
He has a fair Pretext, and Power too.  
He, like a Sun, amidst my States do shine,  
Whom Soldiers, and People think divine;  
Sure of the first, he now the last will gain,  
And fix his Powers on my small remain.  
Which yet is not so low, and abject grown,  
But he shall find it hard to make it none.  
Yet I'll my passion with such cunning wear,  
It jealous of his Honour shall appear,  
And whilst I make his Glory my pretence,  
I'll by obliging kindness, drive him hence.  
But if he thus refuses to obey,  
I shall be forced to try another way;  
For what e'er he has done, or I can fear,  
I must preserve my State.  Arasp. 
Sir, he comes here.   

SCENE II.  Prusias, Nichomede, and Araspes. Pru. 
Prince, what affairs could bring you from the Field?  Nicho. 
My duty did to just Ambition yield.  
First, for the Honour Sir, to tell you here,  
That you have yet another Crown to wear,  
Then to receive your kind Embrace, and be  
A Witness, you approve my Victory.  
Sir Cappadocia's yours, Arsaces' Throne,  
Your Orders by my Arm, has made your own.  
And I Sir, thought it was but just to bring  
Thanks due unto my Father, and my King,  
For the great Glory you vouchsafed this Hand,  
To make it Minister of your Command.  Prusi. 
You might have stayed Sir, till I sent for you,  
And by your Letters, paid me the thanks due;  
Nor ought you to have sullied with a Crime,  
That which your Victory adds to your Esteem.  
To leave a Camp in any's Cappital,  
But above all Sir, in a General,  
Be sure, who e'er but you, had thus come home,  
Had changed his Laurel, for a Cypress Crown.  Nicho. 
Sir, I confess my easy thoughts gave way,  
To those desires which my heart do sway.  
I've erred, but Love to you caused the Offence,  
That Passion with my duty did dispense.  
My guilt alone from my affection grew,  
Else I had faultless been, but not seen you,  
A Happiness to me Sir, so sublime,  
That if for it, I'm fallen into a crime.  
I hope 'twill find not strict severity,  
If Love judge in you what it did in me.  Prusi. 
With a Sons Name a slight excuse will serve,  
Him in his Father's kindness to preserve.  
I look upon you, as my sole Support,  
Receive this day the Honour of my Court.  
The Roman Legate who does audience crave,  
Shall see what confidence in you I have:  
You Prince, this great Ambassador shall hear,  
And answer him, for you're indeed King here,  
I'm but the shadow; my age craves no more  
But Titles, for the Toils I took before.  
Which I e'er long must likewise yield to Fate,  
But yours is now the Interest of State.  
Upon yourself, than a true value set,  
But midst your Greatness don't your Fault forget.  
Which having made a Breach on Sovereign Power,  
I to repair't, confine you to an hour.  
After to morrow dare not to stay here,  
Your Love by your obedience will appear;  
And by example you will best maintain  
Your power inviolate, when you shall Reign.  
Go then, and by it to the people show,  
Our greatest Subjects best know what they owe.  Nicho. 
Sir, I'll obey, though the Command be hard,  
Yet give me leave to ask this small Reward;  
Since my late Arms have opened a fair way,  
That now with safety we may her convey,  
And all Armenia for their Queen does wait,  
Please to let me conduct her to that State.  Prusi. 
The Conduct of a Queen so great and fair,  
Becomes your Due, as you are Bithinia's Heir;  
But ere that I can send her to her Right,  
You know some Ceremonies requisite.  
Whilst for her Voyage I things fit prepare,  
Go to the Frontiers, and attend her there.  Nicho. 
She without greater Equipage would go.  Prusi. 
That Wrong to Majesty I'll never do;  
But see, th' Ambassador of Rome comes here,  
Answer him first, and then we'll think of her.   

SCENE III.  Prusias, Nichomede, Flaminius, and Araspes, Guard, Attendants. Flaminius. 
Sir, ere I take my leave, Rome does command,  
That I on her behalf make one Demand.  
For Twenty years you to that Senate owe  
For a Son's Tutorage, and you may know  
By Virtues which his Education grace,  
He in their Cares had not the meanest place.  
'Bove all, he is instructed how to Reign,  
Rome saised and asks this Credence to obtain  
From you, That as a Witness you esteem  
Her Cares, you order now a Crown for him,  
And you'll offend her Sir, if you appear  
To slight, what she thought worthy of her Care.  
Let me then to the Senate Tidings bring,  
Where 'tis that you design he shall be King.  Prusias. 
The Senate's Cares for him shall never find  
Me either, Sir, ungrateful, or unkind.  
That he deserves a Crown I must believe,  
Since Rome and you do that assurance give;  
But Sir, you see a Prince his elder there,  
By whose victorious Arms three Crowns I wear,  
Who now a Laurel at my Feet does throw,  
Some Glory to such worthy Acts I owe.  
To speak for me, let him the Grace obtain.  Nicho. 
'Tis none but you Sir, can make Att'lus Reign.  Prusi. 
Your Interest is most touched in this affair.  Nicho. 
But to preserve yours, it shall be my Care.  
What's Rome's Concern? whence does the Senate take  
Power, whilst you Live, and Reign o'er your Estate?  
Live Sir, and Reign, whilst Nature grants you breath,  
And leave me then to deal with Rome, or Death.  Prusi. 
We ought to have Respect for such good Friends.  Micho. 
Who shares in Life your States, your Death intends.  
And of such Friends in Policy—  Prusias. 
Forbear!  
I'll nothing against that Republic hear,  
To such Allies you should more Reverence pay.  Nicho. 
Must I see Monarchs stoop to what they say?  
Since Rome does for this Prince so much pretend,  
Back Sir, to her, the mighty Present send;  
If he to Govern does so well deserve,  
He is a Treasure which they should preserve,  
That he in time might that Republic grace,  
Either i'th' Consuls, or Dictator's place.  Flam. 
Sir, this Discourse so much in scorn of Rome,  
Not from your Son, but Hannibal does come;  
That proud Abhorrer of the Roman Name,  
Has filled his heart with Hatred and Disdain.  Nicho. 
No, but he fixed it as a Maxim there,  
To value Rome, and not her Greatness fear.  
He was my Master, which with pride I boast,  
And when Flaminius does revile his Ghost,  
He must know, he may do me Reason yet  
For that dear Life, nor ought he to forget,  
That by his Father's Blood; that mighty Man  
His Triumphs o'er the Roman State began.  Flam. 
This is Reproach!  Nicho. 
Do not the Dead revile!  Prusi. 
Nor you by Contests me with Rome embroil.  
Speak plainly to the King as 'tis proposed.  Nicho. 
Well Sir, since than it cannot be opposed,  
Attalus must Reign, Rome has resolved it so,  
And since what she will, must for Mandates go;  
If this dull World will stoop to such a Sway,  
'Tis fit when she commands, Kings should obey:  
But Sir, though Attalus a mind possessed,  
Brave as the Greatest, virtuous as the best;  
Though he with all the Merit were endowed,  
Might grace a Throne, and make a Monarch proud;  
Yet 'tis too much for you, Sir, to afford  
Credit to it upon a Romans word:  
If he such Virtue, and such Valour own,  
They by their great Effects will best be known;  
Give him your Army, let him try to do  
That for himself, which I have done for you.  
I'll lend him, Sir, if he think fit, my hand,  
And gladly will march under his Command:  
Let famous Scipio my Example be,  
To justify such a Lieutenancy;  
Who when Antiochus was by Rome dethroned,  
The Orders of his younger Brother owned.  
The rest of Asia will to him afford,  
Sufficient Employment for his Sword,  
Where he may surfeit his ambitious Breast.  Flam. 
Rome into her protection takes the rest;  
Nor must you, Sir, your Conquests there extend,  
Unless you will her mighty Powers offend.  Nicho. 
I know not what to this the King would say,  
But I myself perhaps may Reign one day,  
Then the Effects we of these Threats shall see,  
Mean time, go, and those places fortify.  
Prepare my now resolved Designs to oppose,  
And in good time your Roman Aids dispose;  
And if Flaminius shall their Leading take,  
I'll find for him a Thrasimenes Lake.  Prusi. 
Prince, you my Kindness by these Taunts abuse,  
You should a Legate with more Honour use;  
The Sovereign Power which does to me belong—  Nicho. 
Command me either speak, or hold my Tongue.  
I cannot say less for a King to those,  
Who whilst he Reigns, would Laws on him impose.  Prusi. 
You offend me Sir,  Nicho. 
Just as Rome Honours you.  Prusi. 
Dare you with boldness your Offence pursue?  Nicho. 
Why? should I, Sir, behold your States confined,  
And Stops to my victorious Course designed.  
Should I stand still, and hear Rome threaten you,  
And be so tame as not to threaten too?  
But kindly thank the imperious Tongues, that dare  
Restrain my Glories, and my Conquests bare.  Prusi. 
Excuse those Heats from youthful Blood do rise,  
Reason and Time will render him more wise.  Nicho. 
Reason and Time opened my Eyes before,  
And Age, Sir, will but open them the more,  
If I had lived as Attalus has done,  
And but imaginary Virtue known,  
For what's without effects I must term so,  
And that which does from admiration grow  
Of mighty men, and Deeds does lamely teach,  
'Tis Imitation must Perfection reach;  
If then my thoughts like his, had ne'er soared higher,  
Than only Rome's great Heroes to admire,  
They still would leave me the Bithinian Crown,  
As from all times due to the elder Son.  
Nor would have so much pressed my Brother's Reign,  
Had not I taught your Armies how to gain:  
But since by three Crowns joined to yours by me,  
Too great a Power they do united see.  
' 'tmust be divided, and a Blot so gay,  
Makes this Prince too well bred Sir, to obey.  
To weaken me that he their Turn may serve,  
He more than Alexander does deserve.  
And I must quit to make his Title good,  
My Birthright or the purchase of my Blood.  
Thank Heaven my Fortune's past, and those to come  
Have cast a Cloud of Doubrs, and Fears on Rome.  
You, if you please, those Mists away may drive,  
But never think I my consent will give.  
The Master to whose Rules I all things owe,  
Did not, Sir, teach me how to stoop so low.  Flam. 
By what you say Prince, it may well be guest,  
You han't for Glory fought, but Interest.  
And all those great Exploits which you have done,  
Make but the Father Tenant to the Son.  
The King's at best but Steward of your Right,  
You for yourself, and not for him did fight;  
If those Dominions gained him by your Hand,  
Are not to be disposed at his Command;  
Those Romans Sir, whom you so much despise,  
When they fight, fight for Glory, not for Prize.  
Scipio, whose Courage you extolled so high,  
Having overcome Rome's stubbornest Enemy;  
Claimed not for all the Kingdoms he had won,  
More than the mighty Name of African;  
But Glory so sublime's not elsewhere known,  
And such pure Virtue Rome can boast alone.  
But Sir, as to those fond conceits of State,  
Your Power, might Jealousies in Rome create.  
Consult some graver heads, you'll quickly learn,  
Your Greatness is too mean for her concern.  
Respect unto the King does now restrain  
My saying more, but think of this again.  
Let less smoke from your Martial Fires arise,  
And you perhaps may see with clearer Eyes.  Nicho. 
When time this difference shall 'twixt us decide,  
Perhaps you may not what I said deride.  Flam. 
Mean time, if you in fighting find such charms,  
Press forward Sir, the Glory of your Arms.  
For unto them no Progress Rome denies,  
But Sir, she always succours her Allies;  
If you don't know it, I give you this Advice,  
Lest at first sight her Eagles should surprise?  
But to the point— all your ambitious Breast  
Claims as your Right, shall be by you possessed,  
Enjoy Bithynia, as it is your due,  
Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia too.  
That Birthright, nor that purchase of your Blood,  
Shall not make Attalus his Title good.  
But since you think they all to you belong,  
Rome has not a Design to do you wrong.  
A Crown is none of yours that Prince shall wear:  
The Armenian Queen is still unmarried Sir,  [To Prusias. 
Th' Occasion does the thing itself propose,  
You are her Guardian, and of her dispose.  Nicho. 
To make him King is this then the Design,  
Without infringing any Rights of mine?  
The Piece with very curious Art is wrought,  
And long Intrigues have worthy Issues brought;  
But since no Right to me you here afford,  
As unconcerned I'll answer but a word:  
Only take Care that Princess treated be  
Like to a Queen, press not on that degree,  
Nor do in her the Rights of Crowns invade,  
Or if you do, I'll perish in her Aid;  
Know that no place can Laws to Sovereigns give,  
But they're at freedom wheresoever they live;  
And in these Courts she's at her own dispose.  Prusi. 
Is this all you to that Request oppose?  Nicho. 
Yes Sir, that's all, save only that the Queen  
Knowing what I can do, too sharp has been.  Prusi. 
'Gainst her, Sir, in my Courts, what dare you do?  Nicho. 
Sir, I could speak, but can be silent too.  
Only once more advise you, if you please  
To Treat Laodice like what she is:  
'Tis I that beg it.   

SCENE IU.  Prusias, Flaminius, Araspes, Guards, Attendants. Flam. 
What! opposed too here?  Prusi. 
This from a Lover is no Wonder, Sir:  
That fiery spirit heightened by Success,  
Hopes to her heart to hinder our Access.  
We'll therefore seek that Passion to remove,  
King's Marriages are seldom made for love,  
And I have Plots of Greatness, and of Fame,  
Will quench Love's Fires, and blow out all its Flame.  Flam. 
But loving him, she'll be capricious too.  Prusi. 
If it should prove so, I know what to do.  
But she's in fine a Queen, and that Degree,  
Seems to require some Formality;  
And though my Power o'er her be absolute,  
And might constrain, yet Prayers will better do't:  
You first as an Ambassador shall move  
The Match, I'll second Rome; and if this prove  
But to our Wish, 'tis better than Commands,  
If not, she will be still Sir, in our Hands.  
Come then let's go, and as this does succeed,  
Take our Advantage further to proceed.    


ACT III. SCENE I.  Prusias, Flaminius, and Laodice. Prusi. 
QUeen, since that Title carries so much Charms,  
It's Loss, methinks should give you some Alarms;  
Power if abused is seldom long preserved;  Laod. 
This great Advice shall by me be observed,  
And if I ever Reign, Sir, you shall see  
The Practice of such Noble Policy.  Prusi. 
Madam, to Reign you take but an ill way.  Laod. 
You may direct me if I go astray.  Prusi. 
You slight Rome, and too small respects you give  
Unto a King, under whose Command you live.  Laod. 
If you your Regal Power would better know,  
You'll find I pay to both, Sir, what I owe;  
If I as Queen receive Ambassies here,  
I must as Sovereign before you appear.  
Assume a Power which I cannot own,  
And in your own Estates affront your Throne.  
ay them refuse out of Respect to you,  
Honours, that in Armenia were my due.  
There I might Rome's ambassador receive,  
And with fit splendour him an Audience give,  
Their Answer, as a Queen to his Desires,  
Or as the merit of the Cause requires.  
Here Sir, I can't the Mystery understand,  
Out of Armenia having no Command;  
For all that Heaven does me else where allow,  
Is that I live and no subjection know;  
Reign o'er myself, and have in all aboades  
No Sovereign, but my Reason, and the Gods.  Prusi. 
Those Gods your Sovereigns by your Father gave  
To me the Power which over you they have,  
And you perhaps my one day understand,  
What 's a King's Reason where he does command.  
For proof of it, let's to Armenia go,  
I'll bring you thither, but attended so,  
That since you stand so much upon your State,  
You must prepare to see it desolate.  
Wars utmost fury through your Land shall Reign,  
Dead bodies shall make Mountains of a Plain.  
And Rivers flow with Blood that I will spill.  Laod. 
Losing my States, I'll keep my Glory still,  
All those vast mischiefs wherewith you me brave,  
Shan't make me subject, though they make me Slave:  
My Life is yours, but not my Dignity.  Prusi. 
This mighty Courage will reduced be,  
When all these Miseries to a Head are grown,  
And Attalus sits on your Father's Throne;  
Then, then perhaps, that Heart may stoop in vain,  
To ask his Hand to seat you there again.  Laod. 
If of your War such base Effects you find,  
There must be a strange Change wrought in my Mind.  
But Sir, perhaps you cannot get so far,  
The Gods will of my Fortunes have a care.  
And raise a man who may my Cause defend,  
‛ against all these Powers which Rome to you can lend.  Prusi. 
You build your hopes on my presumptuous Son,  
But know that both of you to Ruin run;  
Think of that, Madam, and resolve to be,  
Either a Queen, or else Laodice.  
For 'tis the last Advice I'll give to you;  
Make Attalus King if you would Reign. Adieu.   

SCENE II.  Flaminius, and Laodice. Flam. 
Madam, in short, Virtue's perfection.  Laod. 
Follow the King, Sir, your Embassy's done,  
Once more I tell you, that whilst here I live,  
I cannot an Ambassador receive.  Flam. 
Madam, what I would say does proceed more  
From one's your Friend, than an Ambassador:  
From one that of your Safety has a Care,  
Touched with the Ills you for yourself prepare;  
And whilst I do make this my sole Pretence,  
You may admit me say with confidence;  
Perfection of Virtue does require,  
Prudence should be the Checque of your desire,  
That of our Interest we should take a Care,  
Consider in what times we live, and where,  
Else height of Courage in a Royal Breast,  
Is but a brutish Virtue at the best.  
Which, (by false light of Honour guided) blinds  
With its own Merits, the sublimest minds:  
Leads Heroes to such a violent Course,  
That they from Happiness themselves divorce;  
Grasping those Ills, which they should have prevented,  
They grow admired, only to be lamented;  
Only hereafter with vain sighs to say,  
I had Right to Reign, but Passions crossed my way.  Laod. 
Honour to me appears so fair and bright,  
It cannot sure admit of a false Light;  
Yet since 'tis out of kindness, that you do  
Instruct me thus, as Friend I'll answer you;  
And without asking by what jealous Fate,  
You height of Honour prize at that low Rate;  
I dare affirm you'll by experience find,  
Not brutish Virtue Mistress of my mind;  
But such as will my Dignity defend,  
And repulse those shall on its Rights pretend.  Flam. 
Consider Madam, whom you do oppose,  
The Wise, and Valiant, make not them your Foes  
Which are too strong, but you a King incense,  
Who makes increase of Rule his whole pretence;  
Whose Army now upon your Frontiers lies,  
Numerous, Strong, and skilled in Victories.  Laod. 
'Tis true, he has a Potent Army there,  
But such a one, Sir, as I need not fear;  
'Tis true, 't has with Success and Glory fought,  
But when the King shall think by whom 'twas taught,  
He'll either checque those Threats of using force,  
Or find perhaps that he mistakes his Course;  
And e'er with it he does attempt my Throne,  
Levy another to secure his own.  Flam. 
Though this were true, whilst in his Courts you live,  
He'll force that Reason which you will not give;  
He may do what he will, whilst you are here.  Laod. 
ay, now you have said all that I could fear,  
But out of my own Realms and in his Court,  
Virtue 'gainst Tyranny may find support.  
Sir, these Encroachments on the public good,  
Are by the very people understood:  
They know Prince Nichomede, and know the Queen,  
Her obstinate Hate to him is plainly seen;  
They see the King to all her Humours bends,  
And can as well discern his dangerous Friends.  
But for myself, whose Fall you think so nigh,  
No humour makes me Attalus deny;  
But will to spare these Scorns he must receive,  
Though I to him the Style of King should give:  
I should regard him as a common thing,  
One born to be my Subject, not my King;  
My Vassals too, like me, would think him so,  
And such Scorns generous hearts can't undergo;  
'Tis out of Favour than I don't expose  
Him, to such ignominious Slights as tho  Flam. 
Madam, if this be so, 'tis you that Reign,  
And o'er both Camp, and Court are Sovereign.  
The King's but an Idea, and does bear  
No Sway, but what you him in pity spare.  
To receive Embassies is now your due,  
Then as Rome's Legate let me speak to you;  
Or if that Name disgust you here, you may  
Still as a private Roman, let me say,  
That in these days the only way to Reign,  
Is Rome's Alliance, and her Aid to gain;  
By it to Neighbouring States, Kings can give Law,  
Quiet their own, and keep their Foes in Awe.  
No Monarch better does his Crown defend,  
Than whom she graces with the Name of Friend:  
By it is Attalus more King, uncrowned,  
Than those whose Temples Diadems surround.  Laod. 
I knew to what, Sir, this discourse would come,  
Kings are not Kings longer than pleases Rome:  
But if she have their Crowns at her dispose,  
To Attalus she little kindness shows:  
She with her Greatness does herself deceive,  
Else she'll not beg for him what she might give.  
Or if that Prince so much her Favourite be,  
Why sends she him without a Crown to me?  
Why for a Subject strives she thus in vain,  
To move that heart, which would a King disdain;  
Stooped he to Rome, or suffered her Commands,  
Sully the Supreme Power in his hands,  
My Heart cannot my Glory, Sir, betray,  
I scorn these Kings have learned how to obey.  
And since at large you see what my Thoughts are,  
Spare for the future both your Threats and Prayer.  Flam. 
But let me pity, Madam, your Mistake,  
And beg you yet would from these slumbers wake;  
Think but on Rome, think what her Power can do,  
Let your own safety change those thoughts in you,  
Carthage destroyed, Antiochus o'erthrown,  
To be opposed she is too mighty grown.  
Both Sea, and Land, unto her Mandates bow,  
And of the World Rome is the Mistress now.  Laod. 
Mistress o'th' World! how would that Name affright,  
Did I not know Armenia is my Right.  
Did none to mighty Hannibal succeed,  
Or he revived not in Prince Nichomede;  
Or had he not to him the Secret shown,  
How your redoubled Powers may be o'erthrown.  
That valiant Scholar of a Man so great,  
May put his Lessons, Sir, in practice yet;  
Asia by three Crowns gained, six Battles fought,  
Has proved the Conduct which that Master taught;  
But these were Strokes he did for trial show,  
The Capital may fear his Master-blow.  
And he one day—  Flam. 
That day is yet far off,  
The Gods of Rome do at such threatenings scoff;  
That God whose shade at Cannae did appear,  
And filled your conquering Hannibal with fear,  
But see the Mighty Arm that must become,  
One day so fatal to the Stars of Rome.   

SCENE III.  Nichomede, Laodice, and Flaminius, Nicho. 
The Power Rome to her Agents gives is large,  
Or in my judgement you exceed your Charge.  Flam. 
Sir, if I act more than I ought to do,  
The Senate may exact the Account, not you.  Nicho. 
Go then, and let my Flame the freedom gain,  
After your State Intrigues to entertain  
The Queen, whose thoughts perhaps suffer such force,  
Under the mighty weights of your discourse,  
That I the Expense of Time and Art must use,  
T'expel those Maxims you would introduce.  Flam. 
The miseries ill placed Love might bring on her,  
Made me for pity be her Counsellor.  Nicho. 
Whilst you to pity her such Causes find,  
You're an Ambassador extremely kind  
But I must doubt those Counsels which you teach.  
Madam, what Treacheries did this Roman preach?  Flam. 
You grow outrageous.  Nicho. 
Sir, I should do so.  Flam. 
Yet to Ambassadors Respect you owe.  
All Countries to so sacred a Degree.  Nicho. 
Boast not so much your Rank and Quality;  
Who Counsels, is Ambassador no more,  
He has renounced the Charge he had before—  
Did he his Answer, Madam, yet receive?  Laod. 
Yes, Sir, and such as became me to give.  Nicho. 
Then know, I prize you for no more than thus,  
Attalus Agent, and Flaminius;  
Or if you force me, I shall add to all,  
The Poisoner of my Master Hannibal.  
Behold what Honours you from me obtain,  
If you'd have more, go to the King complain.  Flam. 
he'll do me Justice, when I make't my Suit,  
Or if he fail, yet Rome knows how to do't.  Nicho. 
You may of both go ask it if you please.  Flam. 
Prince, think what may ensue such wrongs as these.   

SCENE IU.  Nichomede, and Laodice. Nicho. 
That Counsel for the Queen had been more fit,  
My generous Thoughts now to her hate submit;  
These thoughts to which my Justice did appeal,  
And made me long her murderous Plots conceal.  
Till forced by new designs, I now did bring,  
Zenon and Mithrobates to the King;  
Who knowing something will surprise his Ear,  
He does himself their informations hear.  Laod. 
I know not what, Sir, the event may be,  
But this proceeding's not approved by me;  
Nor what should force you to 't I cannot guests,  
The more the Queen should fear, she fears the less;  
And still the more she is disgraced by you,  
She with more fierceness will her Hate pursue.  Nicho. 
Fain would she make my just Complaints appear,  
The effects of my Resentments against her,  
But that false Mask of Courage which she wears,  
Shrouds but her Doubts, and does disguise her Fears.  Laod. 
Court mysteries are oft so close and fine,  
We but at Random of their Aims divine;  
Whilst to defend me, Sir, you were not here,  
Rome never did for Aitalus appear;  
Nor to our Loves the least disturbance gave,  
But now, whilst you but one days' freedom have,  
That day, and in your sight the Roman State,  
Presses for an Alliance, which I hate;  
So that there's nothing which I can perceive,  
But urges you with speed to take your leave;  
For whilst you still within their Power remain,  
Strange Throngs of Fears over my Spirits reign.  
The King dotes on his Wife, Fears, Rome, and you,  
By your Renown have made him jealous too.  
I scarce dare think what I am forced to say,  
There's too much Reason to expect foul play.  
And you— but I see Attalus appear,  
What Projects, what Designs can bring him here?  
Perhaps the search of me is his Intent,  
If so, retiring I'll that Game prevent.   

SCENE V.  Nichomede, Attalus, and Laodice. Atta. 
Madam, that converse was so sweet before,  
Now mine is interposed, is so no more.  Laod. 
Your importunity that's so extreme,  
Me in my second self may entertain;  
Knowing my heart my Spokesman he'll become,  
And answer you as he has answered Rome.   

SCENE VI.  Nichomede, and Attalus. I Atta. 
If, Sir, my presence drives the Queen away  
will retire—  Nicho. 
No, no, Prince you may stay,  
For I have something still to say to you,  
I laid by all these Rights that were my due;  
The Thoughts of being destined to a Throne,  
Resolving to maintain my Love alone;  
And did request you would attempt her so,  
And nothing to the Kings, or Rome's Aid owe;  
But I must either think your memory's bad,  
Or you make no account of what I said.  Atta. 
You force me ill, Sir to remember this,  
Whilst yet between us nothing equal is.  
'Tis true, you with some Rights of Birthright part,  
But will you, Sir, give up the Princess Heart.  
Those Virtues did create his Love, decline  
And quit those Glories make you seem divine,  
Six Battles gained, three mighty Kingdoms won,  
The glorious Assault of many a Town.  
Sir, with such Seconds, what can equal you?  
Make then the Queen indifferent 'twixt us two,  
Let her no more that Mass of Glory see,  
Heaped on you by Success and Victory.  
At once, Sir, let her from heart remove  
Your mighty Deeds, your Virtues and her Love,  
Or else 'gainst all that odds, let me prevail  
To place the King, and Rome in t'other Scale;  
You may by what already is obtained,  
Judge there will little by their aid be gained.  Nicho. 
Prince, this Excuse is very bravely framed  
I see you han't lost all your time at Rome,  
And if not Courage, have brought Cunning home.   

SCENE VII.  Arsinoe, Nichomede, Araspes, Attalus. Arasp. 
'Tis the King's pleasure, Sir, you him attend.  Nicho. 
What I?  Arasp. 
Yes, Sir, he sent me to that end.  Arsin. 
Prince, calumnies are easily o'erthrown.  Nicho. 
Madam, that Truth by me is so well known,  
I wonder you instruct me in a thing  
I never doubted—  Arsin. 
Why then did you bring,  
Swelled with vain hopes which will yourself ensnare  
Zenon, and Methrobates from so far,  Nicho. 
I was resolved the whole should be concealed,  
And you have forced it, if it be revealed.  Arsin. 
Truth forced it; and did o'er your Gifts prevail,  
Such Undertakings, Sir, do often fail.  
They both said somewhat more than what you taught.  Nicho. 
If you're displeased you that displeasure sought.  Arsin. 
I cannot be displeased at what I find,  
Save that it blemishes so brave a mind,  
That to those mighty Titles which you had,  
We must the base one of Suborner add;  Nicho. 
Then to accuse you, they are suborned by me  Arsin. 
Prince, mine's the trouble, yours the shame will be?  Nicho. 
And thus their Credit you would take away.  Arsin. 
No Prince, I rather stand to what they say.  Nicho. 
What have they said which your belief can gain?  Arsin. 
Two mighty Words which will augment your Fame.  Nicho. 
May not I know these words of so much weight?  Arasp. 
The King expects, Sir, your Attendance straight.  Arsin. 
From him you'll hear them, go know his command.  Nicho. 
Madam, I now begin to understand  
His love to you, chasing his love to me,  
Will make you faultless, and me guilty be.  
But—  Arsin. 
What? continue what that But does mean?  Nico. 
Two weighty words which I'll think of again.  Arsin. 
Those words of so much weight may not we know?  Nico. 
You'll hear them from the King, to whom I go.   

SCENE VIII.  Arsinoe and Attalus. Arsin. 
My son, we Triumph; this great Nicomede  
Begins to see how his Deceits succeed,  
Those two Accusers by himself produced,  
Which should to kill him, be by me seduced;  
But to defame me were suborned by him,  
Being startled at so foul and black a sin.  
Both accused me, but did declare as soon  
They to it by the Prince's Gifts were won:  
How mighty's Truth before the face of Kings,  
It from the Souls dark parts, a secret brings.  
That Presence does all Falsehood soon confound.  
They've lost their own, who sought my Fame to wound.  Att. 
Madam, I joy to see such a Deceit  
Has left your Glories yet more pure and great.  
But put this Business to a closer Test,  
And lay aside a while your Interest,  
You'll less indulgence to a Humour give,  
Makes you those Villains with such ease believe,  
Their story twice this day has altered been,  
Subor'nd by you, and then suborned by him.  
Against a man in whom such Virtue's reign,  
Such treacherous Souls should no belief obtain:  
A confessed Traitor does not faith deserve.  Arsin. 
You're generous, Attalus, and I observe,  
That even a Rivals Glory's dear to you.  Att. 
If I'm his Rival, he's my Brother too,  
We're of one blood, and that blood in my veins,  
Forbids me think him guilty of such stains.  Arsin. 
And does that blood of yours forbid you less,  
To think your Mother is a Murtheress?  
Your Mother, whose Destruction must be sure,  
Unless his Loss her Safety does procure.  Atta. 
If I 'gainst him such witness scarce believe,  
To them 'gainst you I can no credence give;  
But yet your Virtue that's above all Crime,  
May let me keep for him a just Esteem.  
His Glory has those jealous Spirits raised,  
Which are best pleased when Virtue is disgraced,  
Who with base acts (spurred on by Envy) strive  
To dark the Lustre of so fair a Life  
For me, if other minds by ours be known,  
Or we can guests of their thoughts by our own,  
I must presume that I in him shall find  
The self same Maxims, and the self same mind.  
With that great Rival I have fair play used,  
Not sought his Ruin, nor his Fame traduced.  
Those Aids I have, I did demand aloud,  
And I think him with such brave thoughts endowed,  
That Glory only his Designs inspires,  
And but with Merit counters my Desires.  Arsin. 
Intrigues of Court you never yet did prove.  Atta. 
Should Princes not like Princes treat of Love?  Arsin. 
You treat and talk like one did little know.  Atta. 
Madam, I speak those Virtues Rome did show.  Arsin. 
From time perhaps you will the knowledge gain,  
What Virtues should compose a Monarch's Train.  
Mean time, although that he your Brother be,  
Think that you have a Mother still of me,  
And to defeat what you of this conceive,  
Come see how far the King does it believe.    


ACT IV. SCENE I.  Prusias, Arsione, Araspes. Prus. 
ARaspes, bring the Prince—  [Exit Araspes. 
And pray forbear,  
Madam, those sighs which do my Bowels tear,  
What need you thus with grief my Soul oppress?  
Those Tears will nothing add to your Redress;  
Nor is there need of them for your Defence,  
Do I his Crimes doubt, or your Innocence?  
Or in all I have said, what do you find,  
Should make you think that I can change my mind?  Arsi. 
Ah Sir, what can repair those wrongs that be  
Thrown on the Justest by base Calumny?  
Virtue once charged with falsehood, can no more  
Be made so pure, so bright as 'twas before.  
Still some reproachful memory does remain,  
Which to the brightest Glory brings a stain.  
Whilst, Sir, Detraction harbours in your Court,  
And People blindly would the Prince support;  
Truth is too weak that Scandal to remove,  
They'll think me freed from only by your love;  
And if the least Spot rest upon my Fame,  
If your worst Subjects but suppose the same,  
Can I deserve your love? or do these Fears  
Concern too little then to merit Tears?  Prus. 
You're scrupulous, and do too much mistrust  
A Husband's love, that knows his love is just:  
Glory by Calumny becomes more bright,  
And from its darkness gains a greater light:  
But here's the Prince, and you shall see to day—   

SCENE II.  Prusias, Arsinoe, Nicomede, Araspes, Guards. Arsin. 
Pardon Sir, Pardon for our only stay:  
Pardon for Laurels are so fertile grown;  
Pardon for the Supporter of your Throne,  
Pardon—  Nico. 
For what Madam? Three Kingdoms won,  
Which my death must devolve upon your Son?  
For having so far pressed your conquering Arms,  
That even Rome has taken the Alarms:  
For having too much Regal Power sustained,  
For that Renown I through the world have gained,  
For having with Success and Glory fought,  
Following the Maxims my great Master taught,  
If I want Pardon choose 'mongst these my Crimes;  
I know no more, Madam, unless you'll join,  
That Villains (by some others gained) betrayed  
My easy Faith to credit what they said.  
That having a clear Soul free from deceit,  
I wanted light to see into their cheat.  
'Tis glory this, and not a crime for one  
Who lives in Camps, where no Court Tricks are known;  
Who scorning baseness, does not Thunder fear,  
And knows no Stratagems, but those of War.  Arsin. 
Sir, I recant: he cannot guilty be,  
Loading me with eternal Infamy,  
He only does that common Hate obey,  
Men to the odious Name of Step dame pay,  
That Humour having in his heart took Root,  
He does to me the strokes of Fate impute.  
Does Hannibal his Master (having here  
The Public Faith) give up himself to fear,  
And rather trust his Life and Liberty  
To black Despair, than Hospitality?  
Those Terrors which his doting Soul invade,  
Are only Plots by me beforehand laid.  
Though he such Charms in Laodice espies,  
'Tis I make Attalus see with the same eyes,  
'Tis I the Aids of Rome against him gained,  
And all that wounds him issues from this hand.  
But though to blemish h'attempted have,  
That Master to revenge, that Mistress save,  
All might be pardoned in a Jealous Lover,  
But I do something more in this discover;  
'Twas not his Love that fostered this Design,  
That I'm your Wife, Sir, is my greatest Crime.  
From that Name only springs this Calumny,  
For else, in short, what can he charge on me?  
Have I since first your Armies he did command,  
Denied th'assistance both of Voice and Hand?  
Have I refused him that Renown was due?  
And when he stood in need of Aids from you,  
And might have perished had they been delayed,  
Who better pressed that necessary Aid?  
Sent him quick Succours, both of Men and Treasure,  
And to supply his Wants, made it my pleasure;  
You know this, Sir, but see he does return  
For all that I have done, Reproach and Scorn.  
To rob me of your love, has scandal used,  
But still in Jealous Lovers all's excused:  
I say't again—  Prus. 
What answer canst thou make?  Nico. 
That the Queen's goodness I must wonder at.  
I will not say that with those Aids she gave,  
By which she did my Life and Honour save,  
And which with so much Pomp she does repeat,  
She sought by my hand to make Attalus great,  
And by this Arm of mine those Glories heaped,  
Which this day tells us should by him be reaped;  
By what she was to so much kindness wrought,  
I leave to Heaven to judge, that knows her thought.  
Those gods who heard the Vows she made for me,  
Will of our Cause the best Deciders be.  
Mean time, since the appearance is so fair,  
She spoke for me, I ought to speak for her.  
And for her interest, I must let you know,  
In punishing two Villains, you're too slow.  
Zenon and Methrobates ought to be  
A Sacrifice to her wronged Dignity.  
They both accused her first, and that scarce done,  
They made her faultless, to accuse your Son;  
But no way cleared themselves, their death is made  
Too just, for having thus with Greatness played.  
Offences done to those of our Degree,  
Can no way but by blood, repaired be.  
For things unsaid, you cannot pardon give,  
The Blot remains whilst the Impostors live,  
And sparing them, you Royal Blood expose  
Unto the malice of such Tongues as those.  
Th' examples ill your Life in hazard lies,  
If you let scape such spreading Calumnies.  Arsin. 
How Sir, would you destroy 'em for that truth,  
Which Heaven did suddenly put in their mouth,  
That truth which does restore to you your Wife,  
Cancels her Scandals, and secures her Life?  
That truth which did your Sentence, Sir, suspend,  
Whilst for my Interest he does this pretend?  
You have no Cunning, Prince, no Court tricks know.  Prus. 
Leave 'em, and of your own Defence think now,  
Purge yourself of a Crime so base and low.  Nico. 
I purge myself, you cannot Sir, think so,  
You know too well those of my Dignity  
When they grow guilty, aim at things more high;  
Their Failings like their Glories are sublime,  
And with their Power they do protect their Crime.  
T' have raised your People, brought your Army here,  
In an oppressed Queens In'trests to appear,  
Snatched her from hence in spite of Rome, or you,  
Or all that Attalus Rivalship could do,  
And of their Tyrannies have stopped the course,  
With all your own, and all Armenia's Force,  
Had been fit Crimes for such a Soul as mine,  
If I a breach of Duty could design.  
Mean Spirits for Revenge use to defame,  
And 'tis most properly the Woman's Game.  
'Gainst those Impostors than your Sentence give,  
For my sake, or the Queens they ought not live.  
At the last moment, men with Heaven make peace,  
Truth best appears when Worldly interests cease,  
And those base spirits when about to die,  
Perhaps may once more what they said, deny.  Arsin. 
Ah Sir!  Nico. 
Pray Madam, the true Cause declare,  
Why you should press so hard these Lives to spare;  
Or let us think you fear, lest dying they  
Might out of conscience some close Plots convey.  Arsi. 
What hate than this Sir, can more cruel be?  
Whilst I'd acquit him, he accuses me.  
But Sir, perhaps my presence whets his Rage,  
I by my absence may these Heats assuage,  
And quieting a Spirit soared so high,  
Prevent those Crimes at which he yet may fly.  
I will not ask that Pity should procure  
For my protection, you a Crown secure.  
Nor do I seek my Attalus to save,  
That he should half of your Dominions have.  
If that your Roman Friends request it so,  
I never did of their Intentions know.  
They with their Powers may favour still my Son,  
But I shall need no Aids when you are gone,  
I love too well Sir, not to follow you,  
When in these arms you pay to Fates their due,  
Upon your Tomb my Love's last Duty, Grief,  
At once shall sacrifice my Tears and Life.  Prus. 
Ah Madam!  Arsin. 
Yes Sir, when that time shall come,  
Your Destiny and mine shall be but one.  
Then since he never shall my Sovereign be,  
What should I fear? what can he do to me?  
All that I ask in favour of that Gage,  
That Son, who does so much his hate engage,  
Is that he may return to Rome, and there  
Finish his days under that Senate's care;  
To whom you did commit his Youth, and be  
A weak Remembrance of your love to me;  
This Prince will serve you better than before,  
When Jealousies shall wound his Thoughts no more.  
And fear not Sir, though thus you Rome defy,  
For all her Power his Valour is too high.  
The Secrets of great Hannibal he knows,  
From whom Rome did receive such mighty blows,  
afric and Asia yet admiring stand,  
At those renowned Advantages he gained  
For Carthage and Antiochus. But now  
I go Sir, and the liberty allow  
To your Paternal Goodness, to improve  
The tenderness of Nature, and of Love:  
I must not longer in your Presence see  
Myself unworthily reproached be.  
Nor would I move your anger against one  
Who is your Valiant, and your Conquering Son.   

SCENE III.  Prusias, Nicomede, Araspes, Guards. Prus. 
This in my breast does strange disorders raise,  
Yet Nicomede, I cannot think thee base,  
But let's yield somewhat to the Senate's Prayers,  
And strive to reassure the Queen who fears;  
Passion for her, Affection pleads for thee,  
I would not have this Hate eternal be.  
Yet though I prize them, cannot in my breast  
Cherish these thoughts only to break my rest.  
I would make Love, and Nature, of accord,  
Father, and Husband be; and in a word—  Nico. 
If I may with you any credit win,  
Be neither one, nor t'other.  Prus. 
What then?  Nico. 
King.  
Bravely that Noble Character resume,  
Passions in Monarchs hearts should find no room,  
Father and Husband are respects not known  
To a true King, who should regard his Throne,  
And nothing more. Reign as you ought then, Sir,  
And Rome will fear you more, than you fear her.  
See but how she who dares to threaten you,  
With apprehensions does my Loss pursue,  
Hoping by losing me, strange things to gain,  
'cause she foresees I shall know how to reign  Prusi. 
Thus then ungrateful I'll thy counsel use,  
Laodice, or my four Kingdoms choose.  
'Twixt thee and Attalus thy King does make  
This dividend, thou one of them must take  
No longer Father now, but King i 'le be.  Nico. 
Were you as well King of Laodice;  
And could with Justice such a choice propose,  
I should ask time ere I my thoughts disclose.  
But now to show my will to pleasure you,  
Yet with respect not to offend her too,  
I answer without frivolous delay,  
To your intentions not to what you say.  
To that dear Brother all those rights transpose  
And let Laodice be free to choose.  
By that see which is mine.  Prusi. 
Poor abject mind,  
What fury makes thee for a woman blind,  
Preferrest thou her to all thy glorious fights?  
To all thy valour to my Realm unites?  
After such baseness, dost deserve to live?  Nico. 
I follow that example which you give,  
Prefer not you a woman to that son,  
By whom those Victories those crowns were won?  Prusi. 
Do you see me renounce a crown for mine,  Nico. 
Do you imagine that is my design?  
If to my brother what is yours I quit,  
I nothing yield having no right to it,  
For what can I unto your Crowns pretend?  
Till death shall to your Right and Reign give end.  
Pardon me Sir the Harshness of the Phrase,  
Yet Fate in fine does limit Monarch's days  
Your people then, wanting a King, will see  
And choose perhaps betwixt that Prince and me.  
Sir, our resemblance is not yet so nigh,  
But dullest eyes a difference may espy.  
And the old rights of birth have oft been known  
To call an Exile back to fill the throne.  
Or if your Subjects thoughts with yours agree,  
Their's others brought under your yoke by me.  
And though Rome still her jealousy pursue,  
I can do for myself what's done for you:  Prusi. 
I'll take a course for that!  Nico. 
It may be done.  
If to their Fears you sacrifice your son:  
Else your Estates resigned unto that Prince,  
Shall not be his, when you are gone from hence  
'Tis not in secret, that I this declare,  
But speak it, that he may himself prepare.  
He hears me now.  Pru. 
Ingrateful without blood.  
I shall know how to make his titles good.  
And you—   

SCENE IU.  Prusias, Nicomedes, Attalus, Flaminius, Arrases, Guards. Flam. 
If my affront this anger draws,  
Sir you might spare it to so light a cause  
Rome may receive it with resentments due  
But I have Friends that shall appease her too.  Pru. 
I'll do her right, to morrow from this hand,  
Attalus shall receive supreme command:  
I'll make him King of Pontus and my heir,  
And for this Rebel who does so much dare,  
Rome shall be Judge what his affronts deserve,  
In Attalus stead, he shall for Hostage serve.  
And to conduct him fit means shall be found,  
So soon as he has seen his Brother crowned,  Nico. 
And will you send me then to Rome?  Pru. 
Yes Sir:  
Go, ask your dear Laodice from her.  Nico. 
I'll go, I'll go Sir, and shall there appear,  
A greater Monarch than you dare be here.  Flam. 
Rome on your actions will true value set.  Nico. 
Gently Flaminius we are not there yet  
The Journey's long, and you may be deceived,  
Things well begun are often ill atcheived.  Pru. 
Away Araspes, double now his Guard.  Atta. 
Sir.  Pru. 
Thank Rome, and still have this regard.  
That as her powers are the springs of yours,  
'Tis her support alone your power secures.  
But Sir I now must your excuse desire,  (to Flaminius. 
The Queen's disgusts some comfort do require.  
I'll therefore go but leave him still with you,  
Attalus once more give Rome those thanks are due.   

SCENE V.  Attalus and Flaminius. Atta. 
What value shall I on these favours set  
Which for the highest Merit are too great?  
Your kindness does so far all bounds surpass  
It has for my ambition left no place,  
Yet Sir I needs must say my Father's throne,  
Would not complete my happiness alone,  
That which most charms my spirit is that now,  
The Armenian Queen may to my wishes bow.  
The sceptre which does make me worthy her—  Flam. 
Will not your passiion in her heart prefer?  Atta. 
Sir resolutions are not always one,  
Our thoughts are oft changed by occasion,  
Besides it was her dying Father's care,  
She should be spouse to the Bithinian heir.  Flam. 
She being Queen, that will's no order now,  
Further than 'tis her pleasure to allow,  
Besides what can she in a Crown respect,  
Given in that Princes wrong she does affect,  
In you who rob her of a Friend so dear,  
And of his fall the only Author are.  Atta. 
That Prince sent hence, to whom shall she complain  
Who can 'gainst Rome, and us; her cause sustain,  
For still I promise to myself your aid,  Flam. 
Counsel's are different by occasions made  
And to be plain, Prince I'll not promise it,  Atta. 
At this Rate Sir you do confound me quite  
By Sovereign power I am out wretched grown  
If I must lose your Friendship with my crown.  
But I Rome's justice wrong in doubting thus  
Han't you her orders?  Flam. 
Yes for Attalus.  
For that Prince whom she from his Cradle knew  
But for the King of Pontus must have new,  Atta. 
New orders Sir I cannot understand,  
Why Rome should crush the work of her own hand  
Unless she jealous of my power become.  Flam. 
What is't you say Prince, what is't you presume?  Atta. 
Only from you Sir I would comprehend  
To what this unequallity would tend.  Flam. 
I would explained and would recover you  
From these destructive errors you pursue,  
Rome courting for you the Armenian Queen,  
Dispensed with Justice out of that esteem  
She had for you, but since she does obtain,  
You by more just and equal ways may Reign,  
Glory does with her love to you dispense  
And stops her acting further violence.  
Then leaving that Queen to her own thoughts free  
Your wishes must elsewhere directed be.  
Rome will a sitting match for you provide.  Atta. 
But if that Queen consent to be my bride?  Flam. 
the wil hazard yet Rome's Glory, and appear  
As if some artifice of hers it were.  
Prince if my words can any credit gain,  
You must endeavour to suppress this flame.  
Or if of my advice you take no heed,  
Stay for the Senates ere you do proceed.  Atta. 
Finding such coldness to such love succeed,  
Rome loved not me, but hated Nicomede  
And whilst to feed my Wishes she does Feign  
Contrives my loss then when she makes me Reign.  Flam. 
Sir that my answers may not be too rude,  
To these essays of your ingratitude,  
Follow your humour, and your Friends offend:  
Your Sovereign now, and all things may pretend.  
Yet since it is so fresh you can't disown  
'Tis Rome which this day seats you in a throne,  
Remember what the King but now did say,  
You will be nothing when you lose her stay.   

SCENE VI.  Atta. 
Was it thus Attalus thy Grandsires reigned?  
Wilt thou be King to have thy power restrained  
By such a World of Masters? Ah I find,  
Titles thus bought are irksome to my mind.  
If for such Masters I must gain a Crown  
'Twere better to be subject still to one,  
And heaven has given him so great and brave  
'Twere base to slight him and become Rome's slave,  
Then to the Romans let us boldly show  
Living amongst them we their Maxims know,  
That all they do they to some ends apply  
And all their Friendships yields to policy  
Then in our turn let us be jealous too,  
And act for us what for themselves they do.  
The end of the Fourth Act.    


ACT V. SCENE I.  Arsinoe, Attalus. Arsi. 
TO fear this Rout, I see no reason why  
What's in a moment born, as soon will die  
If darkness does increase its noise, the light  
Will dissipate the vapours of the Night.  
Less does the people's tumult me disturb  
Then to see, thou canst not thy passion curb.  
But led, by love so fruitless and so vain  
Contemnest not her, did thee so much disdain  
Let that ungrateful from thy thoughts be chased,  
Now thou above her art by Fortune placed;  
It was her throne, not eyes, thou shouldst adore;  
Reigning without her: love her then no more.  
Offer that heart to more obliging chains,  
Now thouart a King, Asia has other Queens,  
Who would not scornful of thy sighs appear,  
But pay those vows to thee, thou payest to her.  Attal. 
But Madam, if—  Arsin. 
Why if she should prove kind,  
Theirs danger in't not seen by love that's blind:  
as soon as of her Crown possessed thou be  
She will engage thee in her hate to me.  
But Oh Gods! can her rage those limits keep.  
Canst thou in safety in her bosom sleep?  
Thinkest thou that her resentments will not prove  
The sword or poison to revenge her love.  
What is't a woman won't in fury do?  Atta. 
You with false arguments conceal the true.  
The Senate who no powerful King would see,  
Feared that in Nicomede they fear in me.  
To a queen's bed I cannot now pretend,  
Unless I will our sovereign Rome offend,  
And since by it my Interests I betray,  
To keep her favour still I must obey,  
Those profound policies I understand,  
By which she hastens to the world's command.  
If any Monarch grows too great and high,  
His ruin must remove her jealousy.  
Who makes a Conquest gives a wound to Rome,  
Which can't endure too great a power in one.  
But always thinks just cause of war appears  
'Gainst those whose greatness may o'er shadow hers.  
They who of Empire best the rules do know,  
Will make us all things to their orders owe,  
Their power o'er Kings to that vast height is grown  
All stoop to them, while they depend on none,  
Madam, too well I am instructed thus,  
By th' fall of Carthage and Antiochus,  
Lest I be crushed like one of them, I'll bow,  
And reasons which I can't oppose allow,  
Fate this compliance from me now commands,  
Since you give Nicomede into their hands,  
That Hostage will secure my Faith or be,  
A Lion ready to let loose on me:  Arsi. 
This is what I intended to advise  
But with this prudence you my soul surprise  
These things may change, but let it be your care  
To wink at Jealousies which useful are.   

SCENE II.  Arsinoe, Flaminius, Attalus, Arsi. 
Sir is it not a conquest worth the pain  
That from a Lover I belief can gain,  
Make him with duty that fierce flame control  
And seat again his reason in his soul,  Fla. 
Madam, 'twere well such conquests to pursue  
And make this people reasonable too  
'Tis time their growing tumults to restrain  
Or if you strive too late you'll strive in vain,  
On a weak Basis you those Fancies found  
Make you believe they will themselves confound  
Rome uses not commotions to oppose  
With such tame Resolutions as those  
But when to popular rage they'll sound retreats  
That senate spares hot either prayers or threats  
With resolution her affairs she steers  
And from her seven hills drives her Mutineers.  
Who would a horrible descent have made  
If they had longer there regardless stayed.  
Left to the freedom to act what they please,  
As you in this occasion give to these,  Arsi. 
Since Rome does so, we'll to her rules submit  
Her great example doth authorise it?  
And the King shall— but now himself is here.   

SCENE III.  Prusias, Arsinoe, Flaminius, Attalus. Pru. 
The whole design does now to me appear:  
These Mutineers are by Armenians led,  
And have declared that Queen to be their head.  Flam. 
I did at first that 'twas her plot suspect,  Atta. 
For all your cares she pays you this respect.  Flam. 
Sir now the times necessity obey,  
Think what to do, talk does but breed delay.   

SCENE IU.  Prusias, Arsinoe, Flaminius, Attalus, Cleone. Cleo. 
Nothing can now the people's rage withstand  
Madam they with loud cries the Prince demand,  
And have to such a height their Furies born  
His two accusers are in pieces torn.  Arsi. 
Those victims paid unto the people's hate  
We with their Fury may our fears abate,  
In those two Wretches blood, their hands being died  
They'll think the Prince is amply satisfied.  Flam. 
Madam if this disorder had no chief,  
I should incline to be of your belief.  
The people's rage no further might pretend  
But formed designs have seldom such an end,  
They press at what they have contrived before  
The first bloodshed opens the way to more,  
Flesh's, and hardens, does all horror chase  
And unto fear or pity leaves no place.   

SCENE V.  Prusias, Flaminius, Arsinoe, Attalus Cleone; Araspes. Aras. 
The tumult towards the Court sir makes such haste,  
And your false Guards do quit their Posts so fast,  
I dying may my Loyalty assure,  
But cannot longer sir the Prince secure.  Prus. 
Let's go, le's go then to these rebels give  
That head they seek to crown whilst we 'r alive  
From off the battlements we'll to them throw  
That precious object which they covet so.  Atta. 
Ah Sir.  Pru, 
Yes yes; 'tis thus we ought to give,  
And they who so demand, should so receive,  Atta. 
But sir you'll thus, these mutineers engage  
To execute the utmost of their rage:  
The Queen, Flaminius' nor your Majesty  
Cannot in any hopes of safety be.  Pru. 
What shall I to these Rebels than go down  
And with their darling, yield them up my Crown,  
There's but that choice: their power outmatching mine  
I must my Sceptre or my Life resign.  Flam. 
Though there were justice in what you propose.  
Can you sit of that Prince's life dispose?  
The power you could pretend o'er him is gone:  
He's now Rome's hostage and no more your Son.  
And though a Father have forgot him quite,  
I must remember what's the Senate's right:  
Which taking of his life you must invade,  
Of which I will be no abettor made,  
My Galley's now lie ready in the port  
And theirs a private passage from the Court:  
If then my counsels can't this fall prevent,  
To my departure first give your consent,  
That thereby to the word it may appear,  
Rome is more just than you, and less severe,  
Expose not her to that contempt and shame,  
To see her hostage in her own sight slain.  Arsin. 
Sir, may i speak what I thinks 's fit to do?  Pru. 
Yes for there can come nothing ill from you  Arsin. 
Heaven then to me, a sure device has shown,  
To purchase Rome's contentment and your own  
Since sir his Galleys ready are to go,  
He may with ease take home his hostage too.  
The designs favoured by the private gate,  
But all things better to facillitate.  
Show yourself to the people appear kind,  
And seem to their desires to be inclined.  
And t'has amuzing them give time till he  
With all their hopes have gained the open Sea,  
When if they force the Court, and miss the Prince,  
Appear confused, say Rome has stolen him hence,  
Promise your just Revenge shall pursue her,  
And all that in it her assistants were.  
Send after him with the approaching morn,  
Flatter them with the hopes of his return,  
And with a thousand Arts you may devise,  
Still give advantage to the enterprise  
How high so ere their transports now appear,  
They'll attempt nothing whilst for him they Fear.  
Or whilst they shall perceive all force is vain  
Thus you assured safety may obtain:  
But if they find him we must fly this state,  
For at first sight they'll him their King create.  
You think so I believe sir?  Pru. 
Yes, I do?  
And think the Gods sent this advice to you.  
Then this what better could contrived be?  Flam. 
It gives you glory, life and liberty,  
Besides Laodice's still Hostage here,  
So that we nothing but delays can fear.  Pru. 
Then talk no more let's follow the advice.  Arsi. 
Araspes and three soldiers will suffice,  
To guard him, numbers faithless oft appear  
I'll to Laodice, and secure her.  
Attalus where run you.  Atta. 
I go to try, one project to appease their mutiny  
'Twill add another to your stratagem,  Arsi. 
Think your concerns and mine are still the same  
'Tis for your sake if I in danger be.  Atta. 
Madam, I'll perish or I'll set you free.  Ar. 
Go then the Armenian Queen I yonder see.   

SCENE VI.  Arsinoe, Laodice, Cleone. Arsi. 
Must she who caused these harms unpunished be  Laod. 
No Madam, a fit punishment I'll find,  
For the small Faults of her ambitious mind.  Arsi. 
Speak you that punishment who know her crime  Laod. 
A small abasement will serve for a Queen,  
To see her plots prevented may suffice.  Arsi. 
Say rather that her rashness to chastise,  
Sceptres and Crown she does deserve to lose:  Laod. 
Great spirits seldom such revenges use,  
When they have once o'ercome they soon forget  
And temperate bounds unto their anger set,  Arsi. 
Those that believe you would be soon content  Laod. 
Heaven gave not me a soul more violent,  Arsi. 
To raise up subjects 'gainst their Sovereign  
To hazard Kingdoms to the sword and flame,  
Into the Court to press their insolence,  
Call you this Madam, little violence:  Laod. 
We're both mistaken, Madam, and I see,  
What I speak for you, you explain for me:  
But for what touches me all cares are past  
'Twas to serve you that made me hither hast,  
Lest Majesty might suffer something rude  
From the enraged fury of a multitude,  
Send for the King and Attalus that I  
In them preserve the Royal Dignity.  
Which else an angry people may assail.  Arsi. 
Did ever pride o'er woman thus prevail  
You that the cause of these disorders were,  
You that in my own courts my Captive are  
You whose blood shall atone these crimes and be  
A victim to affronted Majesty.  
With confidence dare thus your crime pursue,  
And talk as if I should ask grace of you.  Laod. 
Madam, whilst you thus obstinate appear,  
You don't believe 'tis I that command here:  
That when I please you shall my victim be  
Nor can this Tumult be a fault in me,  
Your people are all guilty, and in them,  
Justly these acts you may as crimes condemn.  
But I'm a Queen and cannot be accused,  
If for my safety I these Rebels used:  
Since right of War did never yet deny  
Raising revolts against an Enemy  
Who robs me of my spouse, I mine may call  Arsin. 
I am so Madam, and what ere befall,  
Be sure when ere these Rebels force the Court  
That moment with your head you answer for't  Laod. 
You'll falsify your threats, or on my tomb  
Soon see a great and royal hecatomb  
But Madam, could you do 't although there were  
Zenon and Mithrobates harboured here,  
Think you my plots have been so lamely framed  
But I have likewise your domestics gained.  
Find out a man that would his life betray,  
That's fond of dying, and he'll you obey,  
Yet o'er Bythinia I pretend no sway,  
Give me free passage to Armenia,  
And that you may your own just power regain  
Restore my spouse, whom you with hold in vain  Arsin. 
That spouse of yours, you may towards Rome pursue  
Flaminius has him, he'll restore him you.  
But pray make haste, you'll miss him else, for he  
Is by this time at least a league at sea.  Laod. 
Could I believe't—  Arsin. 
You may do't if you please.  Laod. 
Fly then those furies which my spirits seize,  
After the knowledge of an act so foul,  
All generous thoughts are banised from my soul  
But rather as my hostage here remain,  
Till with this hand, his freedom I regain,  
I'll go and pluck him from the midst of Rome,  
With all your subjects, and with all my own  
At her own gates I'll give her my Alarms,  
Supported with ten hundred thousand arms,  
My rage shall their her tyrannies subdue.  Arsin. 
Then you'll in fine reign o'er Bethinia too?  
And in that frenzy does possess you now  
The King must of your Regency allow.  Laod. 
Madam I'll reign, and yet not injure him,  
Since he is but the picture of a King.  
What need he care, who laws does here ordain  
Or whether Rome or I for him does reign.  
But see I have an other hostage yet.   

SCENE VII.  Attalus Arsinoe, Laodice, Cleone. Arsi. 
Saucy thou them Attalus make their retreat?  Attalus 
Ah Madam!  Arsi. 
Speak!  Atta. 
Ah Madam! what is done  
Sums up all our preceding fears in one.  
The Prince is scaped.  Laod. 
Then Madam fear no more,  
I'm now as generous as I was before.  Arsin. 
Does Attalus delight to affright me too?  Atta. 
Hope not so well, as to presume it so,  
Wretched Araspes led by his ill fate,  
With his weak guard no sooner reached the Gate  
Through which Flaminius had passed to his fleet  
But he fell wounded at the Prince's feet,  
And his few followers daunted at that sight  
Fearing the like fate took a speedy flight.  Arsin. 
But who, alas! could wound him in that gate?  Atta. 
Ten or twelve soldiers who as guards did wait  
The Prince.—  Arsin. 
Ah son there Traitors every where,  
Few subjects to their Master's faithful are,  
But whence of this could you informed be  Atta. 
Araspes self did dying tell it me.  
But hear what only causes my despair,  
To join me with my Father I took care.  
But all in vain for coming to the shore.  
I saw that Monarch to his fears gi'en o'er.  
In a small skiff after the Roman flee,  
gi was perhaps no less afraid than he.   

SCENE VIII.  Prusias, Flaminius, Arsinoe, Laodice, Attalus, Cleone. Pru. 
No, no, believe us yet too brave to fly,  
Here we'll defend your glories or we'll die.  Arsi. 
Let's die, le's die sir, and not victims be  
Unto the fury of an enemy.  
'Tis better we of our own fate dispose  
Then leave it to the Pleasure of our foe's:  Laod. 
By this despair you that great man offend  
Much more than when you him to Rome would send.  
Since in my breast he such an Empire hath  
You should believe him worthy of my Faith,  
I should disown him, had he not a mind  
Revenge can't animate nor passion blind.  
Did not in him all that is generous dwell,  
But here he comes see if I know him well.   

SCENE LAST.  Prusias, Nicomedes, Arsinoe, Laodice, Flaminius, Attalus, Cleone: Nico. 
All's quiet sir, my sight did soon assuage  
The people's fury and has balmed their rage,  Pru. 
Rebel in my own Palace dost me brave  Nico. 
Rebels a title I shall never have:  
I come not here sir to reproach your hate,  
Like Captives grown proud with their charge of state  
Like a good Subject I bring that repose,  
Which some ill interests sought to discompose:  
Not that I would a crime to Rome impute,  
She greatness follows with a close pursuit:  
And her Ambassador did what he ought,  
When to divide our growing powers he sought  
But yet sir don't admit him to constrain,  
To make her fear, let me your favour gain  
Pardon your people, too much heat and rage  
In which their love to me did them engage.  
Pardon those faults they necessary thought,  
Faults which to you have peace and safety brought  
Forgive them you too Madam, and let me  
A vowed admirer of your goodness be.  
I know what 'twas made you my foe become,  
A mother's love would fain have crowned her son.  
I will myself assist in the design,  
If you can yield he take his power from mine,  Asia. 
more conquests Madam does afford,  
And to crown him you may command this sword  
Choose but o'er what place you would have him King  
And to his hands I will that Sceptre bring.  Arsin. 
Ah sir! why do you farther press this strife,  
Y'ave in your power my glory and my life,  
Can't your ambition their receive an end,  
But you'll your conquest o'er my heart extend.  
Against such virtue there is no defence,  
My breast to yield bleeds with impatience.  
Join then this victory to three Kingdoms won  
And I in you shall gain another son  Pru. 
Madam, than I yield too, and must believe,  
My glories do in such a son revive,  
But for this happiness which we receive  
Maned we Prince know to whom our thanks to give  Nico. 
The Author of it would not sir be known  
But took a pledge from me, which I must own  
'Twas here he said it should restored be.  Atta. 
Sir if you please accept that pledge from me  Nico. 
By this brave action you best let me know  
That in your veins, true royal blood does flow  
You are no more th' ambitious slave of Rome  
But the Redeemer of a Crown become  
Brother with my chains others off are throne,  
The Kings, the Queens, Bythinias and your own,  
But why conceal yourself and save the state?  
To see your virtue at the highest rate,  
I thought against our injustice 'twould act best,  
When not by this weak service prepossessed,  
And I on one of us revenged might be,  
If I had judged ill of what now I see.  
But Madam  (to Arsinoe. Arsin. 
'tis enough I now divine.  
What was the stratagem you'd add to mine,  
And sir my spirits pleased to see my Son  (to Nicomede 
Has stopped that course of ill, I would have run.  Nico. to Fla. 
Sir to be plain I think each generous mind,  
Might happiness in your alliance find.  
But with those Laws which Rome to Kings would give  
We can't from her the stile of Friend receive,  
Let us then have it free from servitude  
Or Enemy will be a name less rude.  Fla:: 
This I must leave sir to the Senate's care  
But thus much can with confidence declare,  
That at the least Prince you'll find that respect  
Such an Heroic spirit can expect,  
And if the name of friend they can't allow,  
They'll think to have found in you a worthy Foe.  Pru. 
Since thus our civil Jars composed are  
To render thanks to heaven let us prepare  
And that our happiness may firm become  
Pray to the Gods to grant us peace with Rome.  
The End of the Fifth and Last Act.    
FINIS.   

A True, perfect, and exact Catalogue of all the Comedies, Tragedies, Tragicomedies, Pastorals, Masques and Interludes, that were ever yet Printed and Published, till this present year 1671. all which you may either buy or sell, at the Shop of Francis Kirkman, in Thames-street, over-against the Custom House, London.  

A  Names of the Authors. Names of the Plays.  Will. Shakespeare AS You like it. C Will. Shakespeare All's well that ends well. C Will. Shakespeare Anthony & Cleopatra. T Will. Shakespeare Arraignment of Paris. P Ben. Johnson Alchemist. C James Shirley Arcadia. P Will. Rowley All's lost by last. T Geo. Chapman All Fools. C Rich. Broome Antipodes. C Sir W. D' Avenant Albovine. T George Peele Alphonuus Emp. of Germany. T Lord Sterling Alexandrian Tragedy. T Lord Brooks Alaham. T John Webster Appius and Virginia. T Hen. Glapthorne Albertus Wallenstein. T Hen. Glapthorne Argalus & Parthenia. P Shak. Marmion Antiquary. C Tho. Randall Aristippus. I Tho. Randall Amyntas. C  Arden of Feversham. T Cyryl Turneur Atheists Tragedy. T John Jones Adrasta. C Nat. Field Amends for Ladies. C Dr. Maine. Amorous War. C Rob. Cox. Actaeon & Diana. I Torquato Tasso Aminta. P John Studley Agamemnon. T Sr. John Suckling Aglaura. TC Leonard Willan Astrea. P Lod. Carlisle Arviragus & Philicia, 1st. part. TC Lod. Carlisle Arviragus & Philicia, 2d. part. TC John Marston Antonio & Melida. T John Marston Antonio & Melida. T Tho. May Agrippina. T Tho. May Antigone. T E. W. Apollo Shroving. C John Lily Alexander and Campaspe. C  Albumazar. C Henry Porter Angry women of Abington. C T. Lupton All for money. T Nich. Trot Arthur. T Lady Pembroke Antonius. T  Albion's Triumph M R. C. Alphonsus' King of Arragon. H  Alarum for London. H R. B. Appius & Virginia. T  Andromana. T  Andrea in Terence. C  Adelphus in Terence. C  Abraham's Sacrifice.   Albion. I Tho. Middleton Any thing for a quiet life. C John Wilson Andronicus Comnenius. T John Dancer Aminta. P S. Tuke Adventures of five hours. C Jo. Weston. Amazon Queen. TC  Amorons Orontus. C  Amorous Widow & wanton Wife. C     

B  John Fletcher Beggars Bush. C John Fletcher Bonduca. T John Fletcher Bloody Brother. T Ben. Johnson Bartholomew Fair. C James Shirley Bird in a Cage. C James Shirley Ball. C James Shirley Brothers. C Tho. Heywood Brazen Age. C Tho. Midleton Blurt Mr. Constable. C Phil. Massinger Bondman. C Phil. Massinger Bashful Lover. C George Chapman Blind Beggar of Alexandria. C Geo. Chapman Bussy D'Amboys. T Geo. Chapman Bussy D'Amboys Revenge. T Geo. Chapman Byron's Conspiracy. H Geo. Chapman Byron's Tragedy. T Sir W. D'Avenant Britannia Triumphans. M John Ford Broken Heart. T Tho. Nabs Bride. C T. D. Bloody Banquet. T Sr. John Suckling Brenoralt. T  Battle of Alcazar. T John Day Blind Beggar of Bednal Green. C Sir Rob. Howard Blind Lady. C  Bastard. T  Bottom the Weaver. I Shakespeare and Rowley Band, Ruff & cuff. I  Birth of Merlin. TC Dut. of Newcastle Bridals. C Dut. of Newcastle Blazing World. C Killigrew Bellamira her Dream.  Earl of Orrery Black Prince. T  

C  Will. Shakespeare COmedy of Errors. C Will. Shakespeare Coriolanus. T Will. Shakespeare Cymbeline. T Will. Shakespeare Cromwel's History. H John Fletcher Custom of the Country. C John Fletcher Captain. C John Fletcher Coxcomb. C John Fletcher Chances.  John Fletcher Cupid's Revenge. C Ben. Johnson Christmas his Masque. M Ben. Johnson Cloridia, rites to Cloris. M Ben. Johnson Cynthia's Revels. C Ben. Johnson Catiline's Conspiracy. T Ben. Johnson Case is altered. C Ben. Johnson Challenge at Tilt M James Shirley Changes, or Love in a Maze. C James Shirley Chabot Admiral of France. T James Shirley Constant Maid. C James Shirley Coronation. C James Shirley Cardinal. T James Shirley Court Secret. C James Shirley Contention of Honour & riches. M James Shirley Cupid & Death. M Tho. Heywood Challenge for Beauty. C Midleton & Rowly Changeling. C Tho. Midleton Chaste Maid in Cheapside. C Phil. Massinger City Madam. C Geo. Chapman Caesar & Pompey T Alex. Brome Cunning Lover. C Rich. Brome Court Beggar. C Rich. Brome City Wit.. C Sir W. D'Avenant Cruel Brother. T Sir W. D'Avenant Cruelty of the Spaniards in Peru. M Lord Sterling Croesus. T Dr. maine City Match. C Tho. Goffe. Courageous Turk. T Ant. Brewer Country Girl. C Dawbourne Christian turned Turk. T Tho. Nabs Covent Garden. C  Charles the 1st. T Tho. Goffe. Careless Shepherdess. TC  Cupid's Whirligig. C John Kirke Champions of Christendom. H  Combat of Caps. M Sheppard Committe-man curried. C Rob. Mead Combat of Love & Friendship. C  Costly Whore. C Tho. Killigrew Claracilla. TC Tho. May Cleopatra. T Sam. Daniel Cleopatra. T Tho. Carew Coelum Britannicum. M Jos. Rutter Cid 1st. part. TC Jos. Rutter Cid 2d. part. TC Duke of Newcastle Country Captain. C Geo. Sands Christ's Passion. T John Swallow Cynthia's Revenge. T Tho. Preston Cambyses King of Persia. TC Tho. kid Cornelia. T  Caesar's Revenge T  Cyrus King of Persia. T Rob. Wilson Cobbler's Prophecy. C Nat. Woods Conflict of Conscience. P Rob. France Countess of Pembrook's Ivy Church. P  Cromwel's Conspiracy. TC  Cruel Debtor.   Commons Conditions. C Webster & Rowly Cure for a Cuckold. C Abr. Cowley Cutter of Coleman-street. C Rob. Davenport City Nightcap. TC E. M. St. Cecily, or the converted Twins. T Dut. of Newcastle Covent of Pleasure. C Sir Rob. Howard Committee. C Tho. Porter Carnival. C  Cheats. C  

D  John Fletcher DOuble Marriage. C Ben. Johnson Devil is an Ass. C James Shirley Duke's Mistress. TC James Shirley Doubtful Heir. TC Tho. Heywood Duchess of Suff. H Phil. Massinger Duke of Milan. T Rich. Brome Damoiselle. C Sir W. D'Avenant Drakes History, 1st. part. M Lord Sterling Darius. T John Webster Devils Law-case. TC John Webster Duchess of Malfi. T Chr. Marlow Doctor Faustus. T Tho. Ingeland Disobedient Child. I Geo. Peel. David & Bathsabe. TC Lewis Machin Dumb Knight. C John Tateham Distracted States T John Marston Dutch Courtesan C  Darius' story. I Barnaby Barnes Devils Charter. T  Doctor Dodipol. C Marlow & Nash Dido Queen of Carthage. T  Damon and Pythias. H Lod. Carlisle Deserving Favourite. TC Rob. Baron Deorum Dona. M  Dick Scorner.   Destruction of Jerusalem.    

E  John Fletcher ELder Brother. C Ben. Johnson Every Man in his humour. C Ben. Johnson Every man out of his humour. C James Shirley Example.  Tho. Heywood English Traveller C Tho. Heywood Edward the 4th. 1st part. C Tho. Heywood Edward the 4th. 2d. part. C Tho. Heywood Elizabeth's troubles, 1st. part.  Tho. Heywood Elizabeth's troubles, 2d. part.  Phil. Massinger Emperor of the East. C Chapman Johnson Eastward hoe. C Richard Brome English Moor, or the Mock-marriage. C Geo. Peele Edward the 1st. H Chr. Marlow Edward the 2d. T  Edward the 3d. H Tho. Nals' Entertainment on the Prince's birth day. I T. R. Extravagant Shepherd. C John Lily Endymion. C C. W. Electra of Sophocles. T  Every Woman in her humour. C  Interlude of Youth. I Sir Will. Lower Enchanted Lovers. P  Enough's as good as a Feast.  Bernard Eunuchus in Terence. C Rich. Flecknoe Erminia. TC Lord Digby Elvira. C  English Princess. T Tho. Thompson English Rogue. C John Dreyden Evening Love, or the Mock-Astrologer. C Ben. Johnson Entertainments at King James' coronation. E Ben. Johnson. Entertainments of the Queen & Prince at Althrope. E Ben. Johnson Entertainments of the King of England and King of Denmark at theobald's. E Ben. Johnson Entertainments of King James & Queen Ann, at theobald's. E  

F  John Fletcher FAlse one. T John Fletcher Four Plays in One. C John Fletcher Faithful Shepherdess. P John Fletcher. Fair Maid of the Inn. C Ben. Johnson Fortunate Isles. M Ben. Johnson Fox. C Tho. Heywood Fair Maid of the West, 1st. part. C Tho Heywood Fair Maid of the West, 2d. part. C Tho. Heywood Fortune by Land and Sea. C Tho. Heywood Four London Prentices. H Tho. Heywood Fair Maid of the Exchange. C Midleton & Rowly Fair Quarrel. TC Tho. Midleton Family of Love. C Phil. Massinger Fatal Dowry. T John Ford Fancies. C Shak. Marmion Fine companion. C  Fleire. C Will. Strode Floating Island. C Robert Green Friar Bacon. C  Fair Em. C John Marston Fawn. C  Faithful Shepherd. P  Fatal Union. T  Flowers. M Tho. Jordain Fancies Festivals. M Lod. Carlisle Fool would be a Favourite, or the discreet Lover. TC Geo. Gerbier False Favourite disgraced. TC D'ouvilly   Will. Hemings Fatal contract. T Tho. Norton Ferex and Porex. T Tho. Decker Fortunatus. C  freewill. T Gibb. Swinhoe Fair Irene. T Rich. Fanshaw Faithful Shepherd. P  Fair Maid of Bristol.   Fidele and Fortunatus.   Fulgius & Lucrel  John Heywood Four PP. I Rhodes Flora's Vagaries. C  Feigned ginger. C Astrea Bien Forced Marriage, or the jealous Bridegroom. TC  

G  Will. Shakespeare GEntleman of Verona. C Ben. Johnson Golden Age restored. M James Shirley Gamester. C James Shirley Gentleman of Venice. TC James Shirley Grateful Servant. C Tho. Heywood Golden Age. H Tho. Midleton Game at Chess. C Phil. Massinger Great Duke of Florence. C Phil. Massinger Guardian. C George Chapman Gentleman Usher C John Cook. Green's tu quoque. C  Ghost. C  Gentle craft. C  Gyles Goose cap. C Abr. Cowley Guardian. C Sir John Suckling Goblins. C John Lily Galathea. C Mr. S. Mr. of Art Gammer Gurton's Needle. C Geo. Gascoign Glass of Government. TC Rob. Baron Gripus & Hegio. P  Guise T B. J. Guy of Warwick. T J. T. Grim the Collier of Croyden. C  

H  Will. Shakespeare HEntry the 4th 1st. part.. H Will. Shakespeare Henry the 4th. 2d. part. H Will. Shakespeare Henry the 5th. H Will. Shakespeare Henry the 6th. 1st. part. H William. Shakespeare Henry the 6th. 2d. part. H William. Shakespeare Henry the 6th. 3d. part. H William. Shakespeare Henry the 8th. H William. Shakespeare Hamlet. T John Fletcher Honest man's fortune. C John Fletcher Humorous Lieutenant. C Ben. Johnson Honour of Wales M Ben. Johnson Hymenae. M James Shirley Hide Park. C James Shirley Humorous Courtier. C James Shirley Honoria and Mammon.  Geo. Chapman Humorous day's mirth. C Tho. Decker Honest Whore, 1st. part. C Tho. Decker Honest Whore, 2d. part. C Henry Glapthorn Hollander. C Shak. Marmion Holland's Leaguer. C Tho. Nabs. Hannibal & Scipio. T  Hieronimo 2 part T  Hoffman. T  Histriomastix. C Markham and Herod and Antipater. T Samson    How to choose a good wife from a bad. TC Sir W. Lower Horatius. T Tho. Randal hay for honesty, down with knavery. C Tho. May Heir. TC Jasper Heywood Hercules furiens. T John Stndley Hippolytus. T John Studley Hercules Oetus. T Edm. Prestwith Hippolytus. T  Hector's, or false challenge. C  Henry the 5th. with the Battle of Agincourt. H S. S. Honest Lawyer. C John Day Humour out of breath. C W. S. Hector of Germany. H  Hieronymo 1st. part. T Rob. Taylor Hog hath lost his Pearl. C Sam. Daniel Hymen's Triumph. P Bearnard Heauton. in Ter. C J. D. Hell's higher court of Justice. I R. Head Hic & Ubique. C Earl of Orrery Henry the 5th. H Sir Rob. Stapleton Hero & Leander. T Lod. Carlisle Heraclius Emperor of the East. T Mr. Rat. Phillips Horace. T  

I  William. Shakespeare JOhn King of England. H Will. Shakespeare Julius Caesar. T William. Shakespeare John K. of England, 1st. part. H William. Shakespeare John K. of England, 2d. part. H John Fletcher Island Princess. C Ben. Johnson Irish Masque. M James Shirley Imposture. TC Tho. Heywood Iron Age, First part. H Tho. Heywood Iron Age, Second part. H Tho. Midleton Inner Temple Masque. M Rich. Brome Jovial crew. C Sir W. D'Avenant Just Italian. TC Lord Sterling Julius Caesar. T Cosmo Manuch Just General. T Chr. Marlow Jew of Malta. TC Tho. Randal Jealous Lovers. C Sr. Ralph Freeman Imperiale. T John Marston Insatiate Countess. T  Jack Drums Entertainment. C John Day Isle of Guls. C Geo. Gascoign Jocasta. T Rob. Davenport John & Matilda. T Fra. Goldsmith Joseph. T  Jacob and Esau. C Tho. Decker If this be'nt a good Play, the Devil's in't. C  Jack Straw's life and death. H  James the 4th. H  joseph's afflictions Jack Juggler.  Impatient poverty.  William. Hemings John Evangelist.  R. C. Jews Tragedy. T  Ignoramus. C  Jovial crew, or the Devil turned Ranter. I John Dreyden Indian Emperor. T Sir Rob. Howard Indian Queen. T  Imperiale, in Folio. T  

K  John Fletcher KIng and no King. C John Fletcher Knight of the buring pestle. C John Fletcher Knight of Malta. C Ben. Johnson King's Entertainment at Welbeck. M J. D. Knave in grain. C  King and Queen's entertainment at Richmond. M  Knight of the Golden Shield. H  Knack to know an honest man. C  Knack to know a Knave. C  Knavery in all trades. C  

L  William. Shakespeare LOcrine Eldest Son of K. Brutus. T William. Shakespeare Loves labour lost. C William. Shakespeare Leir and his three Daughters. T William. Shakespeare London Prodigal. C John Fletcher Little French Lawyer. C John Fletcher Loyal Subject. C John Fletcher Laws of Candy. C John Fletcher Lovers Progress. C John Fletcher Loves cure, or the martial Maid. C John Fletcher Loves Pilgrimage C Ben. Johnson Loves Triumph. M Ben. Johnson Loves Welcome. M Ben. Johnson Love freed from Ignorance. M Ben. Johnson Love restored. M James Shirley Loves Cruelty. T James Shirley Lady of Pleasure. C Tho. Heywood Loves Mistress. M Heywood & Brome Lancaster Witches. C Rich. Brome Love-sick Court, or the ambitious Politic.  Sir W. D'Avenant Love & Honour. C  Lost Lady. TC Peaps Love in its Ecstasy. P Cosmo Manuch Loyal Lovers. TC John Ford Lovers Melancholy. T John Ford Lady's Trial. C John Ford Loves Sacrifice. T Hen. Glapthorn Lady's Privilege C Ant. Brewer Love-sick King. TC  Landagartha. TC  Loves Loadstone. C  Lingua. C  Loves Dominion. P Abra. Cowley Loves Riddle. P Rob. Gomersal Lod. Sforza. T W. Cartwright W. R. Lady Errand. TC  Three Lords and Ladies of London. C Chr. Marlow Lusts Dominion, or the Lascivious Queen. T Ulpian Fulwel Like will to like, quoth the Devil.  R. Wever Lusty Juventus. I R. W. Three Ladies of London. C John Tatham Love crowns the end. TC John Day Law tricks, or who would have thought it. C W. Chamberlain Loves Victory. C Tho. Meriton Love and War. T John Lilly Loves Metamorphosis. C  London Chanticlers. C  Look about you, or, run Red Caps. C  Leir and his three Daughters. H Tho. Lodge and Robert Green Looking-glass for London. H  Liberality & Prodigality. C  Lady Almony. C  Luminalia. M  Laws of Nature. C T. B. Love will find out the way. C  Love Alamode. C T. Ford. Love's Labyrinth. TC  Levellers leveled I Geo. Etherege Love in a Tub. C Rich. Flecknoe Loves Kingdom. TC  

M  Will. Shakespeare MErry wives of Windsor. C Will. Shakespeare Measure for measure. C Will. Shakespeare Much ado about Nothing. C Will. Shakespeare Midsummer night's Dream. C William. Shakespeare Merchant of Venice. C William. Shakespeare Macbeth. T William. Shakespeare Merry Devil of Edmonton. C William. Shakespeare Mucedorus. C John Fletcher Mad Lover. C John Fletcher Maid in the Mill. C John Fletcher Masque of Gray's Inn Gent. M John Fletcher Monsieur Thomas C John Fletcher Maids Tragedy. T Ben. Johnson Magnetic Lady. C Ben. Johnson Masque at my Lord Hayes House. M Ben. Johnson Metamorphosed Gypsies. M Ben. Johnson Masque of Augurs M Ben. Johnson Masque of Owls. M Ben. Johnson Mortimer's fall. T Ben. Johnson Masque of Queens. M Ben. Johnson Mercury Vindicated. M James Shirley Maids Revenge. T Hen. Shirley Martyred Soldier T Tho. Heywood Maiden head well lost. C Tho. Midleton Mad World my Masters. C Tho. Midleton Mayor of Quinborough. C Tho. Midleton Michaelmas term C Tho. Midleton More dissemblers than Women. C William. Rowley Match at Midnight. T Phil. Massinger Maid of Honour. C Geo. Chapman May Day. C George Chapman Monsieur D'Olive C  Masque of the middle Temple, & Lincoln's Inn George Chapman  M Rich. Brome Mad Couple well matched. C Lord Brooks Mustapha. T  Marcus Tullius Cicero. T Barten Holliday Marriage of the Arts. C Tho. Decker Match me in London. J. C. Tho. Nabs Microcosmus. M Tho. Randal Muse's Looking-glass. C John Mason Muleasses the Turk. T  Mercurius Britannicus. C Geo. Wilkins Miseries of enforced Marriage. TC John Studley Medea. T Nat. Richards Messalina. T John Lily Midas. C John Lilly Mother Boniby. C Sir W. Lower Martyr. T  Massanello. T John Marston Malcontent. TC Rob. Baron Mirza. T  Marriage of Wit & Science. ● Chr. Marlow Massacre at Paris. T Edw. Sherbouru Medea. T W. W. Menechmus. C Lad. Eliz. Carew Marian. T Tho. Lodge Marius & Scylla. T John Lilly Maids Metamorphosis. C J. C. Merry Milkmaids C Rob. Armin Maids of Moorclack. H J. S. Masquarde du C'el. M Rich. Flecknoe Marriage of Oceanus & Britannia Manhood & Wisdom. M  Marry Magdalen's Repentance.   Milton's Masque. M M. W. Marriage Broker. C Earl of Orrery Mustapha. T Tho. Jordain Money is an Ass. C Sir W. D'Avenant Man is the Master C Tho. Thompson Mother Shipton's Life & Death. C L. Vis. Faukland Marriage night. T John Dreyden Maiden Queen. C Mrs. Boothly Marcelia.  Sr. Ch. Sidley Malberry garden. C  

N  John Fletcher NOble Gentleman. C John Fletcher Nice Valour, or the Passionate madman. C John Fletcher Night Walker, or the little Thief. C Ben. Johnson News from the New World in the moon. M Ben. Johnson Neptune's Triumph. M Ben. Johnson New Inn. C Sam. Rowley Noble Spanish Soldier. T Phil. Massinger New way to pay Old Debts. C Rich. Brome Northern Lass. C Rich. Brome Novella. C Rich. Brome New Academy, or the New Exchange. C  Nero newly written. T Decker & Webster Northward hoe. C  Noble Stranger. C  New trick to cheat the Devil. C  Nero's Life and Death. T  New Custom. I  No body & some body. H  Nice wanton.  Sr. W. Lower Noble ingratitude TC John Dancer Nichomede. TC  

O  Will. Shakespeare OThello, the moor of Venice. T Will. Shakespeare Old-Castle's Life and Death. H Ben. Johnson Oberon the Fairy Prince. M James Shirley Opportunity. C Midleton & Rowly Old Law. C Tho. Goffe. Orestes. T Alex. Nevile Oedipus. T T. Nuce Octavia. T W. Cartwright Ordinary. C Sr. Asten Cockain Obstinate Lady. C Lod. Carlisle Osmond the great Turk, or the Noble Servant T L. W. Orgula, or the fatal Error. T Tho. May Old Couple. C  Orlando Furioso. H  Old Wives Tale.  Sr. Asten Cockain Ovid. T Sr. W. Killigrew Ormazdes. TC  

P  William. Shakespeare Pericles' Prince of Tyre. H William. Shakespeare Puritan Widow. C John Fletcher Prophetess. C John Fletcher Pilgrim. C John Fletcher Philaster. C Ben. Johnson Pleasure reconciled to Virtue. M Ben. Johnson Pan's Anniversary M Ben. Johnson Poetaster. C James Shirley Politician. C James Shirley Patrick for Ireland. H Tho. Midleton Phoenix. C Phil. Massinger Picture. C Sr. W. D'Avenant Platonic Lovers. C Hen. Killigrew Pallantus & Eudora. T John Ford Perkin Warbeck. H John Ford. Pity she's a whore T Rob. Dawbourne Poor man's Comfort. C Lod. Carlisle Passionate Lovers, 1st. part. TC Lod. Carlisle Passionate Lovers, 2d. part. TC W. Lower Phoenix in her Flames. T Geo. Gascoign Pleasure at Kenelworth Castle. M Tho. Killigrew Prisoners. TC Sam. Daniel Philotas. T James Howel Peleus & Thetis. M J. S. Phillis of Scyros. P Jo. Day Parliament of Bees. M  Pedlars Prophecy. C John Heywood Play of Love. I John Heywood Play of the weather. I  Play between Johan Johan the husband, Tib his Wife, etc. I John Heywood    Play between the Pardoner & the Friar, the Curate & Neighbour Prat. I John Heywood   John Heywood Play of Gentleness & Nobility 1st. part. I John Heywood Play of Gentleness & Nobility etc. 2d. part. I  Pinner of Wukefield. C  Philotas Scotch. C H. H. B. Plutus. C  Patient Griselda. C  Patient Griselda Old. C  Promises of God manifested.   Promus & Cassandra, 1st. part.   Promus & Cassandra, 2d. part.   Phormio in Terence. C  Presbyterian lash. TC Robert Nevile Poor Scholar. C Alex. Green. Politician cheated C Waler and others Pompey. T Sr. W. Killigrew Pandora. C John Wilson Projectors. C Rich. Carpenter Pragmatical Jesuit. C Dut. of Newcastle Presence. C Sr. W. Killigrew Princess, or Love at first sight. TC Tho. Killigrew Parson's wedding. C Tho. Killigrew Pilgrim. T Mrs. Kat. Philip's Pompey. T  

Q  John Fletcher QUeen of Corinth. C Ben. Johnson Queen's Masque of Blackness. M Ben. Johnson Queen's Masque of Beauty. M Rich. Brome Queen's Exchange C Rich. Brome Queen & Concubine. C William. Habington Queen of Arragon. TC  Queen, or Excellency of her Sex. C Sam. Daniel Queens Arcadia. P  

R  William. Shakespeare RIchard the Second. H William. Shakespeare Richard the 3d. H Will Shakespeare Romeo & Juliet. T John Fletcher Rule a Wife and have a Wife. C James Shirley Royal Master. C Tho. Heywood Royal King and Loyal Subject. C Tho. Heywood Rape of Lucrece. T Tho. Heywood Robert E. of Huntindon's downfall H Tho. Heywood Robert E. of Hunting don's death H Tho. Midleton Roaring Girl. C Phil. Massinger Roman Actor. T Phil. Messenger Renegado. C Geo. Chapman Revenge for Honour. T Tho. Goffe. Raging Turk. T Tho. Rawlins Rebellion. T Cyril Tourneur Revengers Tragedy. T Lord Barrey Ram Alley, or merry Tricks. C  Return from Parnassus. C Pet. Haustead. Rival Friends. C Ralph Knevet Rhodon & Iris. P W. Cartwright Royal Slave. TC John Tatcham Rump, or a Mirror, etc. C  Reward for Virtue. C  Robin Hoods Pastoral May-games.   Robin Conscience   Robin Hood and his crew of Soldiers. C John Dover Roman Generals.   Rivals. C William. joiner Roman Empress. T Tho. Shadwel Royal Shepherdess. TC John Dreyden Rival Ladies. TC  

S  John Fletcher SPanish Curate C John Fletcher Sea Voyage. C John Fletcher Scornful Lady. C Ben. Johnson Staple of News. C Ben. Johnson Sad Shepherd. C Ben. Johnson Sejanus. T Ben. Johnson Silent Woman. C James Shirley School of Compliments. C James Shirley Sisters. C Tho. Heywood Silver Age. H William. Rowley Shoemaker a Gentleman. C Midleton & Rowly Spanish Gypsies. C Rich. Brome Asparagus Garden. C Sr. W. D'Avenant Siege of Rhodes, 1st. part. M Sr. W. D'Avenant Siege of Rhodes, 2d. part. M Tho. Denham Sophy. T Tho. Goffe. Selimus. T Tho. Nabs. Spring's glory. M  Swetnam the woman-hater Arraigned. C  Sophister. C Rob. Chamberlain Swaggering Damsel. C  Sicelides. P I. G. Strange Discovery. TC  Suns Darling. P John Tateham Scots Fegaries. C Geo. Gascoign Supposes. C Jos. Rutter Shepherd's holiday. P John Marston Sophonisba. T John Lily Sappho & Phao. C W. Cartwright Siege, or Love's Convert. TC  Soliman & Perseda. C      Stukeley's Life & Death. H Tho. Nash. Summer's last will & Testament. C  See me and see me not. C Wal. Montague Shepherd's Paradise. C Sr. John Suckling Sad one. T  Spanish Bawd. TC  Susanna's Tears.   Salmacida spolia. I Sr. Rob. Stapylton Slighted Maid. C  Stepmother. TC Sr. W. Killigrew Selindra. TC Sr. W. Killigrew Siege of Urbino. TC Abr. Bayly Spiteful Sister. TC  Sociable Compapanions, or the Female wits.  Duchess of Newcastle.  C Sr. Rob. Howard Surprisal. C  Sr. Martin-marall. C Geo. Etheridge She would if she could. C  Sullen Lovers, or the Impertinents.  Tho. Shadwell  C  

T  Will. Shakespeare TEmpest. C Will. Shakespeare eight night, or what you will. C Will. Shakespeare Taming of the Shrew. C Will. Shakespeare Troilus and Cressida. T Will. Shakespeare Titus Andronicus. T Will. Shakespeare Timon of Athens. T John Fletcher Thierry and Theodoret. T John Fletcher Two Noble Kinsmen. TC Ben. Johnson Tale of a Tub. C Ben. Johnson Time Vindicated to himself & to his Honours. M James Shirley Traitor. T James Shirley Triumph of Peace. M James Shirley Triumph of beauty. M Tho. Midleton Trick to catch the old one. C Geo. Chapman Temple. M Geo. Chapman Two wise men, & all the rest fools. C Sir W. D'Avenant Temple of Love. M Tho. Nabs Tottenham Court. C W. Rider Twins. TC  True Trojans. H Jasper Heywood Thyestes. T Jasper Heywood Troas. T Tho. Newton Thebais. T Chr. Marlow Tamburlaine, 1st. part. T Chr. Marlow Tamburlaine, 2d. part. T Geo. Wapul Tide tarrieth for no man. C  The longer thou livest the more fool thou art.  W. Wayer  C  Tom Tyler, and his Wife. I  Trial of Chivalry. C Day W. Rowley & Wilkins. Travails of the three English Brothers.    H Rob. Wilmet Tancred & Gismond. T Rob. Yarington Two Tragedies in one. T Sr. Asten Cockain Trapolin supposed a Prince. TC  Tyrannical Government.   Thersytes. I S. Pardidge Troades. T  Trial of treasure  Webster & Rowly Thracian wonder. H T. W. Thornby Abbey. T Tho. St. Serfe▪ Tarugoes Wiles, or the Coffe-House. C  Tyrannic Love, or the Royal Martyr.  John Dryden  T Earl of Orrery Tryphon. T M. Medburu Tartuff, or the French Puritan. C Tho. Killigrew Thomaso, or the Wanderer. C  

V  John Fletcher VAlentinian. T Ben. Johnson Vision of delight. M Phil. Massinger Unnatural combat T Phil. Massinger Very Woman. C Phil. Massinger Virgin Martyr. T Sir W. D'Avenant Unfortunate Lovers. T Tho. Nabs Unfortunate Mother. T R. A. Valiant Welshman. T Fra. Quarles Virgin Widow. C Will. Samson Vow-breaker. T  Valiant Scot T W. Duk. of Newca. Varieties. C  Untrussing the humourous Poet C Sam. Brandon Virtuous Octavia. TC Sam. Daniel Vision of the 12. goddesses. M  Unfortunate Usurper. T Edw. Howard Usurper. T  Ungrateful Favourite. T T. Porter Villain. T Sir. Rob. Howard Vestal Virgin. T  

W  William. Shakespeare Winter's tale C John Fletcher. Woman's Prize, or the tamer tamed C John Fletcher Women pleased C John Fletcher Wife for a month C John Fletcher Wit at several Weapons. C John Fletcher Wild-goose chase C John Fletcher Woman-hater. C John Fletcher Wit without money. C James Shirley Witty fair one. C James Shirley Wedding. C Tho. Heywood Woman killed with kindness C Tho. Heywood Wise woman of Hogsdon. C Sam. Rowley When you see me you know me. H Will. Rowley Wonder a woman never vexed. C Midleton & Rowly Widow. C Tho. Midleton World tossed at Tennis. M Tho. Midleton Women beware Women. T Tho. Midleton No Wit Help like a women T Geo. Chapman Widow's tears. C  Wedding of Covent-Garden, or the Middlesex Justice of Peace  Rich. Brome  C Sr. W. D'Avenant Wits. C John Webster White Devil. T Tho. Decker Whore of Babylon. C Tho. Decker Wonder of a Kingdom. C Hen. Glapthorne Wit in a Constable. C Decker & Webster Westward hoe. C  Weakest goes to the wall. C  Woman will have her will. C  Wilie beguiled. C  Wine, Beer, Ale, and tobacco. C John Marston What you will. C Tho. Jordain Walks of Islington & Hogsdon C Nat. Field Woman's a weathercock. C  Wit of a woman C Tho. Meriton Wand'ring lover TC Decker & Webster Wiat's History. H Rowley, Decker, & Ford. Witch of Edmonton. TC John Lily Woman in the Moon. C  Warning for fair women. T  Wealth & health.  T. P. Witty Combat. TC John Dryden Wild Gallant.  Edw. Howard Woman's Conquest. TC 
Y  William. Shakespeare YOrkshire Tragedy. T James Shirley Young Admiral. C Tho. Midleton Your five Gallants. C  

An Advertisement to the Reader.  
IT is now just ten years since I Collected, Printed, and Published, a Catalogue of all the English Stageplays that were ever till then Printed; I than took so great care about it, that now, after a ten years diligent search and enquiry I find no great mistake; I only omitted the Masques and Entertainments in Ben. Jonson's first Volume. There was then in all, 690. several Plays; and there hath been, since that time, just an hundred more Printed; so, in all, the Catalogue now amounts to (those formerly omitted now added) 806. I really believe there are no more, for I have been these twenty years a Collector of them, and have conversed with, and inquired of those that have been Collecting these fifty years. These, I can assure you, are all in Print, for I have seen them all within ten, and now have them all by me within thirty. Although I took care and pains in my last Catalogue to place the Names in some methodical manner, yet I have now proceeded further in a better method, having thus placed them. First, I begin with Shakespeare, who hath in all written forty eight. Then Beaumond and Fletcher fifty two, Johnson fifty, Shirley thirty eight, Heywood twenty five, Middleton and Rowley twenty seven, Massinger sixteen, Chapman seventeen, Brome seventeen, and D'Avenant fourteen; so that these ten have written in all, 304. The rest have every one written under ten in number, and therefore I pass them as they were in the old Catalogue, and I place all the new ones last. I have not only seen, but also read all these Plays, and can give some account of every one; but I shall not be so presumptuous, as to give my Opinion, much less, to determine or judge of every, or any man's Writing, and who writ best; but I will acquaint you with some of my Observations, and so conclude. He that was the first Play-writer, I find to be one Heywood, not Thomas, but John Heywood, who writ seven several Plays, which he calls Interludes; and they are very old, being Printed with the first of our English Printing; and he makes notable work with the then Clergy. And indeed, by only reading of Plays, I find that you may be acquainted with the humours of that present Age wherein they were written. Also by Plays alone you may well know the Chronicle History of England, and many other Histories. I could enlarge much on this account, having for my own fancy written down all the Historical Plays in a succinct orderly method, as you may do the like; I observe that Plays were not only written by professed Poets, but, also by the best Scholars, and Persons of Honour and Eminency; especially, in these last hundred Plays, and not only Male, but Female Writers; there being seven of them in all, four whereof in these last hundred. Although there are but 806. Plays in all Printed, yet I know that many more have been written and Acted, I myself have some quantity in Manuscript; and although I can find but twenty five of Tho. heywood's in all Printed, yet (as you may read in an Epistle to a Play of his, called The English Traveller) he hath had an entire hand, or, at least, a main finger in the writing of 220. and, as I have been informed, he was very laborious; for he not only Acted almost every day, but also obliged himself to write a sheet every day, for several years together; but many of his Plays being composed and written loosely in Taverns, occasions them to be so mean; that except his Love's Mistress, and, next to that, his Ages, I have but small esteem for any others. I could say somewhat more of him, and of all the old Poets, having taken pleasure to converse with those that were acquainted with them, but will conclude thus; that as John Heywood was the first English Play-writer, so in my Opinion, one Thomas Meriton, who writ two Pamphlets, which he calls Plays, viz. Love and War, and the wandering Lover, was the worst. And although I dare not be absolute in my Opinion, who is the best of this Age, yet I should be very disingenuous, if I should not conclude, that the English Stage is much improved and adorned with the several Writings of several persons of Honours; but, in my Opinion chiefly with those of the most accomplished Mr. John Dreyden.  
Yours, Fra. Kirkman.  
Be pleased to excuse the misplacing of 4 of Ben. Jonson's Entertainments in F. & the omission of this one Play.  
Sr. Rob. Howard— The Great Favourite, or, the Duke of Lerma.— T  
FINIS.