THE womens' Conquest: A TRAGICOMEDY. As it was Acted by his Highness the Duke of York's Servants.  
Written by the Honourable E. H.  

Me lectori credere mallem,  
Quam spectatoris fastidia ferre superbi.   
LONDON, Printed by J. M. for H. Herringman, at the Sign of the Blue Anchor in the Lower Walk of the New Exchange, 1671.   

PREFACE.  
THE best excuse that can be given for a Preface before a Play, is when the Reader is not troubled with an Apology for the Author's faults, it being too much to abuse his patience with both; since if just, they will soon be perceived by an impartial apprehension, and more, that he bestows on the world a needless Sophism; there being nothing more hard, then to cozen men by an excuse of Wit, for which the generality of judgements have so little kindness, as they will hardly receive any; nor do I find that the Ancient Poets, or any of most repute of our Modern, assumed this kind of vindication to themselves; though perhaps they might have done it, with more assurance of success, than any that now most confidently undertake it; either as they contemned the impotent censures and cavils, that were spread against their performances, or else a judicious confirmation in themselves, that their works were the best defiances that could be given their Enemies.  
Not that I judge our unimitable Johnson, or those wonders of Wit, Beaumond and Fletcher, were without their failings, or that in some things, their Plays were not questionable, as well as ours; though I could wish our Muses were so happily adorned, as their spots and beauties appear together: and I doubt it may be truly affirmed, that in the greatest of their failings, they fell more below themselves, then beneath us; which gives us some caution not to be too busy with their faults.  
It is one thing to be excellent, and another to be absolutely perfect; the Diamond doth require some polishing, though of most commendable figure and brightness: The like may be said of these excellent Poets, their thoughts were always precious, though not alike polished and set off by themselves.  
Wit is one of the best Talents of nature, but like her other productions in Men, must not expect an absolute perfection; it hath been long a growing from the Ancients to the Modern, and from them to us, and yet we do not find its growth completed; like ambition, it seems to have no limit, and yet confined in its aspiring: there are some, perhaps, vain enough to judge it high in themselves, though far enough from the top of Parnassus; and notwithstanding all the haste, such endeavour to make, I doubt whether the swiftness of their Muse may not fail them by the way.  
Most men are naturally inclined to give to Antiquity its due respects, and there is some reason for it (if no more) in that we must be old ourselves; but he were weakly an admirer of times past, that by an over dotage on them, would continue himself in a Childhood of knowledge; since that were to go backward with ingenuity, as we set too forward theirs, they have their fame, and we must expect ours; though at present they challenge so long a prescription, that until ours does number more than the three parts of an age, in equal repute with theirs. I make some doubt whether the best Rhyme, or Reason, that the Stage is now beholding to, will establish us as great in the judgement of those who shall succeed us; which, as I am far from assuming it to myself, in behalf of any undertaking of mine, so I shall as unwillingly allow it to the boldest of Pretenders; besides this, we are obliged in so great a measure to those great Artificers of Invention, and Wit, by which they raised our Stage to its former glory, as also in a high degree for those excellent rules and observations, which (if well heeded) cannot but improve our endeavours in this kind, and from whom (if we do well) it is impossible to differ so far, as to declare them Enemies, and like the example of the Trojan Hero, to erect a Trophy and superscribe on it,  Aeneas haec de Danais victoribus arma. 
Butas I am nothing concerned, or envy the reputation of any man, on what account soever the world is pleased to allow it him; so I conceive that others have as little to do with mine, and I will be as free in delivering my opinion, as I willingly allow them the liberty of theirs; since I do not conceive the Muses have yet established their Dictator in Poetry; though I am not desirous to controvert any thing (except I shall be necessarily moved thereunto) and which signifies little more than to try who can squirt Ink sarthest: to which purpose, I will retire to myself, desiring the Readers excuse, that I have led him so far about, before I have spoken of my Play; in order to which, I have chiefly designed this discourse; having made myself so far a party on the side of our former Poets, that I have composed this Play in some resemblance to theirs of the like nature, which in my judgement I have esteemed best. I have given it the name likewise of Tragicomedy, as I find they have done some of theirs, which I need not particularise to the Reader, because they are well enough known to be at this day no inconsiderable ornament and entertainment of the Stage; not that I will undertake to justify the word (since every Play, if strictly taken, must be either Tragedy or Comedy, excluding Farce, which does not so much as deserve a Dramatis Personae to be set before it, as we shall soon manifest) And it was doubtless created by former Poets, who finding that mixed Plays were very suitable to the English Stage, and that it was somewhat below the denomination of their Heroics to call them simply Comedies (which as they are corruptly understood, imply, little more than scurrility and laughter, though of far greater dignity, if rightly applied) They allowed them the names of Tragicomedies, & I do not find but the highest of our English Tragedies (as Catiline, The Maid's Tragedy, Rollo, The Cardinal and Traitor) considerable enough to be ranked with the best of these, are at all undervalued by their Authors, in being sweetened with mirth; for as all people do not come purposely to sympathize their passions with those of the Plays, so some will expect to be diverted accordingly; nor do I believe that it is less natural (as some have thought) to form a Play, that shall have this variety of Genius, than I do to find of mankind some grave, reserved, fierce, cruel, others of more airy and pleasant converse, to mingle humours and affairs together.  
If we take our observations from the Courts of Princes, before we descend lower, we shall find it familiar enough (and doubtless Plays are most profitable as well as delightful, when they so represent humane things and actions, as even the greatest are as obvious to our remarks, as those of a lower orb of experience) nor do I conceive any kind of Plays more difficult to be truly formed, than such as have this Heroic mixture, because it is not easy to give humour and mirth a natural rise and generous correspondency with the grandeur of the other, which if suitable in point of character, cannot render it less grateful to the Audience, it being as it were two Plays in one.  
Nor do I find that the serious Plays (now in use) wholly rely upon their Heroic foundation, why else are we diverted by Scenes, Machines', Habits, Jigs, and Dances; but to give more variety of entertainment to the Spectators? either as they are not otherwise to be trusted, or lest the Audience should be too soberly tired without them, which I will not presume to imagine: and whether it be not as natural to admit of a course of Comedy that is made essential to the Plot and dignity of the Play; I leave it to my Reader to judge.  
Verse that ends in Rhyme is generally now the Mode of Heroic Plays, but whether so natural and proper, I will not controvert, otherwise then by declaring my opinion, that I like it not so well as I do Verse without it, and I conceive I have reason enough on my side; for who can believe that words must not of necessity lose much of their grace, and emphasis, when delivered in Rhyme, which limits so much of both to itself; or that the thoughts of Seneca in his Tragedies could have been so well, or better expressed in any language whatsoever in Rhyme (though to an ear that is most delighted with the noise) than they are delivered by him; or that our former Poets have been exceeded in height of expression and fancy, because their Muses have mounted without these Bells jingling at their heels; doubtless a judicious spirit may soon observe the difference, nor can lines in Rhyme ever run so smooth, but there will be some unnaturalness in them as to the freedom of dialogue, and converse (which Plays should resemble) because Verse of that kind will of necessity be sententious and restrain it, and consequently be improper to manage the various intrigues of a Play, or else in plain terms be forced to want them: Nor is a grave or wise manner of speaking to be allowed the wittiest, because that which is sober enough as to Wisdom, may be far enough off from being Witty; and he that will not grant the former to be more easy to invent, must conclude that the Wit of Poetry is as familiar with Men as Gravity and Prudence; nay, it is plainly to be observed, that generally Men write better for the Stage this way, (I mean in Rhyme) than they have, or can do, after the manner of our former Poets without it; which is some demonstration that the latter is less difficult, though more unnatural than the former: And for my greater Authority I will add these few excellent Verses of our Famous Johnson on this subject, which he calls a fit Rhyme against Rhyme. 
Rhyme the rack of finest Wits  
That extracteth but by fits  
True conceits,  
Spoiling senses of their treasure,  
Cozening judgement with a measure,  
But fall weights.  
Soon as lazy thou wert known,  
All good Poetry hence was flown, etc.  And as I doubt not well enough to wave any oblique exception that any man can throw on my Opinion (since patronised by his) so I do not detract from the deserts of any who have done well in this kind, otherwise then by declaring, that as I find it not used by our former Poets, I likewise do not approve it, or have made use of it in this Play of mine; 'tis true, according to their example (which I wish I could have better imitated) I have writ a Masque in Rhyme, and closed some Scenes, and all my Acts likewise with it, which places have ever been allowed most proper for it, because they are Period in which the Audience may best expect a weighty and sententious close; and whensoever Verse was used by Ben Johnson, as it is in Sylla's Ghost, or scattered in some places in Sejanus; I cannot but observe his Art and Nature together, in not confining the periods of sense and Rhyme together (as is too much used now) but most commonly by carrying the sense of one verse into part of another, which Elevates the stile of Verse (as is to be seen in Virgil) and without which it will never show so like Prose, and proper for Dialogue, as it ought to do; an example to be worthily imitated by such as will write in Verse, to whose consideration I presume to commend it.  
In the Epic way, I judge that Rhyme is far more allowable, (though the Ancients used it not) because Verse of that kind may be granted to appear more grave and stately, which represents a continued gravity of Style and Matter, (which not withstanding, by reason of the great extent of the Argument, the variety of the Descriptions and Dialogues, will be more varied in this then in any other manner of using Verse, as is well known to the judicious) besides, that our English Language is neither so copious and great, as Greek or Latin, as must needs be perceived in Homer and Virgil Translated; so that though Rhyme in Verse be of little use to sense (and consequently one of the poorest talents of the Muses) yet as it confers on Verse a Solid and sententious manner of expression (a fault in Dramatic Poesy, if two frequently used, as is discoursed before) I conceive it may be decently admitted in the Epic way; but than it ought to be written with a free and unconfined nature, as is before instanced in the measures of Virgil; and as it is my judgement, so I have made it practicable in that small Heroic Poem of mine, called The British Princess, which I will not presume to commend, more than that it is so far at least an imitator of Antiquity.  
Neither do I believe that Sir William D'avenant, who was the first introducer of Rhyme on the Stage, did otherwise intend it then for vocal Representations, and Operas, (in which it may do well) rather than for Plays, as was known in his Peru, and Siege of Rhodes. And I presume that my Lord of Orrery (whose Ingenuity in Verse brought it more in fashion; in those ornaments he bestowed on the Stage in Mustapha, and other of his Heroic Compositions) would not judge it a debasing of their worth, if they were distinguished by the name of Poems, instead of Plays, for reasons that he is better able to give himself, than any which I have here presumed to offer; but enough of this subject, which I thought fit to touch, to justify so far my excuse in not complying in my Play, with that manner of Verse written in others.  
As likewise that I have not been helped by any History or known Tale in forming of my Plot (not but that I conceive it very allowable, if well managed, and that the truth of History be not evidently impaired by it, which were to render the actions of men contradictory and fabulous, where they are otherwise verified by authority) being willing to believe that a reasonable Genius (and such a one I will only presume to) might produce that which should be at least as new and useful, as any thing could be taken from either; nor do I find but the greatest Plays formerly were the Poets own Tales, as well as Plots; and doubtless they found few better than they could devise, as also that it was natural and delightful for them to manage such best.  
There are three things which chiefly the Muses require to complete their perfections; the first is the beauty of Invention or Design, it's two fair seconds, Eloquence and Wit, with an useful improvement of these to our converse and manners, (nor did I ever observe any man so ignorantly confident to affirm, that a Poem, or Play, could be completed with Humours and Characters alone) though above all, the first is to be allowed the greater value, as being the fountain from whence these streams must flow.  
Thus a Poet is said to be a maker or feigner, as the word 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 signifies in Greek, from whence it is derived according to Aristotle; in like manner the Structures of Poesy are not decently to be raised like other buildings, in which the foundation is the design of one man, the model another's, the fitting of the timber, and other materials a thirds; whilst the Poet should not only be the sole Architect, but all other operations contrived and performed by himself; besides it destroys the improvement of Fiction (the exercise of the Muses) pinioning those wings they delight to spread, and doth advantage, though little more, then to be lazily diligent; insomuch that it is very observable, since Translating hath been so much practised, and taking from Romances and Foreign Plays, the compositions arising from them appear not less disproportioned and uneven, then if a Painter undertaking to describe a History, should from the drawings of Masters, and Figures in Print (to a judicious eye very discernible) take a posture from one, a head from another, a body from a third, and having put them on such legs as he shall make for them, confidently aver he hath performed the noble invention and design that belongs to a Story Painter. And I doubt not to affirm, that the great veneration and repute of former Tales amongst the Ancients, lessened not only fiction and contrivance in their works, but in like manner did mightily prejudice most of all their Successors in Poesy, who have endeavoured to lay their designs after the same manner; insomuch, that who judicially examine it, may soon find how thin and deficient their Poems were, in respect of that beauty their sublime expressions gave them, (excepting Virgill's the Prince of Poets to which I attribute all things) And had they equally been happy in the glory of the other, there had been small honour to have been gotten by the Muses at this day.  
And that I may come nearer my Reader, I will presume to say, that I should be unwilling (for the reasons here given) to have been Author of the contrivance of Statius, Tasso, or any I have seen since Virgil in the Epic way, as in the Dramatic I dislike the Tragedian Seneca in the choice of his Argument and Characters, in both of which, he is so far outdone by our English Poets, that he cannot in that kind (notwithstanding the greatness of his thoughts) stand in any comparison with them; which can be attributed to no other cause, than his doting on those pitiful Tales of Medea, Hippolytus, Theseus, Hercules, and the like (that were less worthily then long the esteem of Ancient Poets;) and it is something more a wonder, that the Schools being so frequent amongst them in those days, they should forget to improve this obvious Philosophical Maxim, Omne agens agit propter finem, which as it holds in all humane actions, so its prudence ought to be heightened as far as possible, both in Epic, and Dramatic writing.  
I confess a Poet should not be so negligent, as to be unacquainted with the Tales and Fictions of the Ancients, in which he ought to be well knowing, as far as necessary, or as he ought to be conversant with all other learning of times past, since the Muses seldom vouchsafe their favours, where there is not a preparation suitable to their dignity and greatness; as it were absurd to invite a Queen, and have no ornaments fit for her reception; so on the other side, the advantages of literature should be rather assistant to Fiction, than any way burdened or depressing it; Virgil perhaps of all Poets was most learned, yet shows us in all parts of his works, that his Muse was the Mistress of his Studies, and that their best splendours, were to serve for her greater delight and entertainment. In other Sciences, Learning is a Tutor, but in this of Poetry, Fiction must illustrate, and guide that, leading us unto those pleasant retirements of the Muses, where as from various and beautiful platforms of Gardens, is beheld the particular designments of shades, walks, and flowers.  
Words are the children of thought, and man must be granted to have first imagined speech, before he could express any conception of his by words; so that thought, was both the primitive ground, and glory of Tongues, which successively came to be more improved; and doubtless it was the Wit of Poets that (above all) refined their own languages; so that I wonder to find it affirmed, that Ben. Johnson (who had such a soul of thought) did by Translating beautify our Tongue; as if his ingenuity was not to be allowed the glory of doing far more by its single strength. I should be loath to wish any so ill, as that he were alive to answer the imputation; however, I could be well content, that such as will make him their precedent in Translating from others, could dispose of it so well, and that they had like wise as much Wit, and Learning besides.  
Translating, may I grant, adds some perfection to a language, because it introduces the wit of others into its own words, as the French have of late done well in theirs; and we have pretty well requited their kindness to us, in rendering so much of theirs in ours; but where I can make use of good Originals, I shall be more sparing of my esteem of Copies, and I dare aver, that the Ingenuiries of Johnson, Beaumond, and Fletcher, with some other of our former Poets, left our language more improved, as it expressed their thoughts, then if the best of Italian, Spanish, and French Wit, had been Translated by the greatest of Pens. I wish it be our good fortune (for the benefit of future times) to leave our Tongue as much enlarged and embellished, as they left it to us.  
With as little reason can any man affirm, that Virgil did not elevate the Latin Tongue to that strength and sublimeness of style, from the vivacity of his thoughts, rather than from those few conceptions, and perhaps the meanest of his works, which he copied from Homer, whether in honour of that ancient Tale of Troy, or some other of his Fables which the world had long admired (as it was the manner of the Ancients, as is already mentioned) and I doubt are very imperfect in Homer, if compared with the manner of his delivering them in his second Book, for which his more victorious Laurel might deserve no less than what he expresses of himself, on another occasion in his Georgics, in reference to the Grecian Poets;  
Primus ego in patriam mecum (modo vita supersit)  
Aonio rediens deducam vertice musas.  
Works that are great and singular, will, and aught to be the imitation of men (as is more particularly the case of Epic Poesy) in those few Authors that have writ of it in so many Ages; so that Statius and Tasso had some kind of noble emulation in endeavouring to be the Successors of Virgil, notwithstanding they were beholding to him for much of their Model and Characters, and could not come so near his height, as he exceeded Homer's; like small Structures that must be content to be over-looked by a more stately Palace, though they epitomise its resemblance; whilst in the Dramatic way, the Genius of men hath not been so confined, nor any particular manner and authority in point of writing so much acknowledged for excellent; wherefore the same licence is not reasonably to be admitted, but if we will needs make the first our Precedents, for the liberty that is now taken in the latter, it were well for the Stage, if such things were only imitated of our Ancient Poets, that have had transcendent applause from our former theatres: And doubtless it is a commendable prudence in Writers of what kind soever, if they endeavour to heighten their Works and Styles, from the examples of others, that have been most approved in the same kind, (since example were of small use otherwise) as he that would be master of the Latin Tongue, might be well content to imitate the styles of Cicero and Caesar; the like may be said of some excellent Precedents in our own Language, the defect whereof is no small reason that neither Latin, nor English is so well written, as it might be at this day.  
Having thus far discoursed of Heroic Plays (and such other things as I thought incident to them, and to which this Dramatic composition of mine is in part relating) I shall in the next place (though with less prolixity) give my Reader an account of the other part of it, which is Comedy, and of that kind of Poesy in general.  
Though the Nature of Comedy be not the same with Tragedy, the end of it is; for Instruction is the part of both, as man may be disciplined under several Schoolmasters.  
The word Comedy was derived from the Greek word 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, or more largely understood by the Ancients of a Play representing humane life and manners; whereas the business of Tragedy is in a higher nature to dispose and elevate the intrigues of passions and affections; I mean such as depend on Ambition, Revenge, Love, Honour, and the like, and so detect their vices accordingly. As it is the duty of Comedy to do the same, in those that come nearest our Moralities, though it must be granted that the representation of Tragedy, cannot be so universally practicable (and consequently not of that benefit to mankind) because its concernments, and actions, are more sublime, and separated from the universality of men, rather fit only for the ear of Princes, (who are very often the greatest number of characters in a Tragical Fable) then for a lower degree of Persons; which shows us, that Comedy hath some merit above it, in that it is of a more universal nature. Upon which occasion our famous Johnson well observes, that Lysippus was not able to form with his Graver, or Apelles to Paint with his Pencil, those life strokes and touches, that true Comedy represents, in respect of the various affections of the mind, in beholding the insolence of some in joy, the melancholy freting of others, the raging madness of such as are undone with love, avarice, riot, tortured with expectation, consumed with fear, etc. as he gives the example, and to whom we are obliged for so many excellent Dramatic Characters to this purpose.  
And as Tragedy requires a strong intrigue and Plot (I wish it were more observed now adays) as being the representation of highest passions, and actions; so Comedy in like manner would abound with all delightful variety of both, by which we behold the humours, and inclinations of men, in due elevation, and magnitude; not that it is requisite that all the characters in a Play should be equally great, or manage alike the main drift of the Drama, (as lines drawn from the centre of a circle, have an equal extent within its circumference) but rather receive a becoming proportion, which is indeed the Golden Rule to be observed in Plays, and requires no less the invention, and skill of the Poet to make it practicable; for as in Mathematical Operations, there is nothing more hard then to be cunning in the Symmetry of lines, and figures they express; so the Poet's disposition of his characters, aught in as high a degree to be proportionable to that body of thought he designs for them. This is that which ennobles Language and Wit, giving to both a decorum on the Theatre; for though the Muses prescribe few rules, they abhor irregularity, and licence, 'tis their sublime instinct, where their excellencies meet in any, as is divinely expressed by Ovid.  Sedibus aethereis spiritus ille venit. 
And as Lipsius affirms, Scio Poetam neminem praestantem fuisse, sine parte quadam uberiore divinae mentis.  
Plays that are Historical, or have much of narration in them, are generally ingrateful, because they dull the edge of the hearers, which as it is sharpened by observing what is actually produced, so it is impaired by hearing of relation instead of action, whether it be true or false, an unpardonable error in most of the French Writers, who it seems did not well apprehend that things actually represented, have more of nature, and life in them, than any account of them, that can be given in words; as likewise such Plays may be censured, the body of whose design consists more essentially on the mistakes of persons, than the intrigues of passions, as most of the Spanish do, and some of the French, where the grand design is to keep the spectators in suspense, till it end with discovery of the true person, by reason that it cannot be of so much concern to an Audience, as when Plays sympathise with those passions that are observable in men; which is so obvious, that I need say no more as to these particulars, they being equally defects in Tragedy and Comedy.  
And as Plays in either kind, aught to have the same end, in respect of manners, so there is an Analogy and commendable resemblance of characters in both, though of different natures, according to the rule, contraria juxta se apposita, magis elucescunt. For as in the characters of Tragedy there will be some violent in love, others haughty, rash, and turbulent, above what is ordinary to be observed in men; so Comedy will have its extravagancies (besides many more) in morose, heedless, timorous and foolish persons, which are images of the like contrary effects of nature; in like manner, the designs and adventures depending on these, have their proportions; for as Dramatic characters will have some remoteness from the ordinary actions of men, so must their undertakings be suitable; wherefore I wonder to find it affirmed, that extravagancies of actions should be fixed on Farce, (which is rather an entertainment of Mimikry, than a Play in any kind) since Plays must not be so even, as to represent nothing above nature, which were to make them more reasonable, then Poetical; besides, it is a commendable licence (especially in Poetry) to represent what is rather useful to know, (as it seems actually done) than the possibility of it, so it provide well for our manners; as we see in Comedies, where we are taught from the mouths of Fools, and by such extravagancies as are in some kind impossible to be supposed, how we may become the wiser; why else did our learned Johnson complete that great work of his Alchemist, with such persons that continue a prosecution of extravagancy of humour or impossibility together, (except the making of the Philosopher's Stone be held a known truth) or that his Dol Cômon representing the Queen of Fairies, was not to pass upon the weak capacity of Dapper deceived by it? The same may be affirmed of his Cynthia's Revels, where Cupid, Mercury, and Echo have parts, or somewhat more extraordinary in his Devil's an Ass, where the grand Daemon, and a lesser, are made characters, as Satirical Reflections on Vanity and Vice, to be corrected by them; which shows, that the truth or possibility of the characters, is less to be considered, than the Morality they aim at. Et hercule omnis salsa dicendi ratio in eo est, ut aliter quam est rectum verumque dicatur, as Quintilian observes.  
As the chief end of Comedy is improvement of manners, so the mirth arising thence, is to entertain our passions, and affections with delight proper thereunto; wherefore to make laughter the chiefest end of Comedy, is to impair its more superior esteem, since what is ridiculous, is not therefore Comedy. If a Clown were shown in a Lady's Gown, or a Scaramuchio that provokes laughter, no otherwise then by making a wry face, or gesture, he must strangely participate of vulgar folly, that would call either of these the parts of Comedy, since they work nothing on the affections, no more than a man can be said to laugh properly without mirth, or be sick, and have no disease.  
But I need not trouble my Reader with a farther vindication of comedy, (though it be some misfortune to our theatres in being so little happy in it this Age) other then by taking leave to suppose, that it is undervalued most by such as do not rightly conceive of its worth, or else despair of writing, what shall merit its esteem or name.  
There is another sort of diversion on the Stage, much received of late (I will not question with what prudence) and that is Farce; which, as I have said before, consists of Mimikry and other ridiculous Gestures mingled together, for which it may properly enough bear the denomination, though it is no more of kin to a Play, than a Mule is to a Horse, in having somewhat longer ears; or that a Pedlar who hath some things in his Pack, that Drapers and Silkmen furnish their Shops with, should be said to be of these Trades, though he hath none lawfully of his own.  
No less doth this French Mode of entertainment on our theatres, vilify mirth, and countenance for the most part debauchery, where it is frequent to observe, the waiting woman's intrigue is to Pimp for the Madam, and the Valet de Chambre for the Mounsieur he serves, which performed with some ease in the compass of five Acts, they go to bed likewise for their labour; the rest of the characters have commonly so little to say for themselves, that a man cannot discern a Fantastic Fool, or Clown, otherwise then by their Habits or Gestures.  
And as Farce cannot be allowed to be Comedy, in its meanest signification, because it doth not perform the requisites unto it; so I find no reason to call Comedy low, though consisting of mean characters, if answering the ends already expressed (as is to be seen in not a few of our ancient ones) and cannot deserve a more worthy esteem, if by the skill and wit of the Writer, the characters of vulgar men are made worth the observation of the greatest, according to that of Virgil in his Georgics, speaking on the familiar subjects, he there treats of;  
Nec sum animi dubius, verbis ea vincere magnum,  
Quàm sit, & angustis hunc addere rebus honorem,  
Notwithstanding I would not be thought averse from such a choice of persons in Comedy, as are most fit to character the most generous instruction of manners; wherefore if for the greatest number they represent the same dignities in either Sex, the entertainment is more suitable to the Audience, which most considerably doth consist of these; and here I cannot choose but reflect on our mean imitation of French Plays, by introducing of servants and waiting women to have parts, without being essential characters; an error well avoided by our former writers, who never admitted any, otherwise then as messengers and attendants, except on the account of being characters, as is to be seen by Numphs in Bartholomew Fair, and Face in the Alchemist; the latter of which (notwithstanding what can be objected against him) may deservedly be granted one of the best parts on our English Stage.  
But perhaps we are not now so destitute of characters, as we are of design and wit to manage them, invention being ready to afford many, and observation some; though here I cannot choose but censure the unpoetical, and no less offensive licence in particularly designing the persons of any, an abuse that deserves to be severely resented, since (if permitted) no man can be secured, but that he may give his money to observe his alliance, friend, or himself, made his injurious entertainment on a public Stage; besides, Plays aught more to reflect on manners, than men, as being their moral use, and when they do otherwise, they are Libels rather than Plays, and nauseate the ear of a modest Audience.  
Having made these observations on our past and present Stage, I must be so ingenuous with my Reader, as to fear, that the perfection of our former Dramatic Poesy ought more politicly to have been my dispute with others, then that I should have maintained its praise, since he is prompted by it, to compare the excellency of their Plays with my defects in this, and for which I have an objection to answer, though, I hope, a weak one, concerning the character of Tysamnes, whom I find to be charged with a breach of promise to Statyra; the matter of fact I confess; but as actions have their degrees of evil, as the circumstances relating thereunto shall render them more or less excusable; so I must say in the behalf of this my character, that the temptation of enjoying of a Crown together with the love of the Scythian Queen, did produce his neglect of Statyra; and whosoever shall consider the prevalency of ambition in Princes, (especially in one without a Crown, which was his case) and how often they forfeit the highest obligations to advance it, will grant I suppose without much difficulty, that there needs small excuse for his character; besides, there was such a reparation on his side, both to his Queen, and her, that though he removed the former, partly for her sake, he did not make himself so guilty, as to marry the latter; but by a due sorrow for his ingratitude to both, confirmed an honourable reputation on his character; all which the Reader may observe in the Play: so that it is not merely the doing of ill, but the persisting in it, that fixes an indelible stain on persons; besides, that no man is of necessity to be presented on the Stage with an evenness of passion, as being neither common, or natural in men, in whom defects will have some place with virtue.  
This objection (though feeble enough) hath been endeavoured to be supported by the impertinent cavils of some, who will hardly like any thing, and care as little for what is good; whether this proceeds from their Spleen to the ingenuities of men, or that they hold it a more noble employment for their Criticism, I cannot tell; and yet I do not find any other objection made against my Play, though both the design and characters were new as the hour in which it was first seen, being wholly created without having reference to truth otherwise, then possibly consistent with it in the persons I introduce, according to Horace;  Ficta voluptatis causa, sint proxima veris. 
The misfortune it had in having some of the Parts ill and imperfectly performed, as also the laying down of it, the sixth day of its being presented, when the Audience was very near as considerable, as the first day it was Acted, as also an intermission hitherto occasioned by the long absence of some principal Actresses, could not but prejudice the esteem it gained, and might have been improved in a further time; not that I judge of the validity of Plays, according to the good fortune they have in point of reception, it having been ordinary enough for very mean or ill ones (especially in this Age) to have had the credit of getting money at a small expense of Wit, whilst they have little more reason to glory in the heat of their acceptation, or number of hearers, than the Fly had in the Fable, that sitting upon a Wheel, most ingeniously boasted of the dust that was raised by it.  
I fear I have trespassed too much on my Readers patience (though I have not troubled him with any other extraordinary Dedication) being ready to acknowledge that what I have writ here, seems more a discourse, or Essay on Dramatic Poesy, than a Preface to a Play; and indeed, I had thoughts of compiling the discussing of that subject with some things of that nature, not but I conceived it might be as usefully given him in this place, where he may more readily observe how far I have made practicable the Theory of this kind of writing I most esteem; nor do I undertake to rectify the judgements of others, farther than theirs shall do mine, where I conceive their reasons to be more prevalent; or would willingly employ so frivolously my Pen, as to entertain a Polemic discourse of Plays, that to the prudent can signify little more than to controvert which is the best way of performing a trifle.  
Farewell.   

The First Prologue.  Enter Angel and Underhill. Ang. 
MR. Underhill— As I am a man of mirth, I am so overjoyed to day, that I could caper from one end of our Stage to the other.  Und. 
I fear, Mr. Angel, you are too jocund beforehand; Wit is grown a ticklish thing of late, and how our Play will take, is some question.  Ang. 
Take, why there's no doubt of its taking,— To which purpose be it known to all here present, that we are to act a Farce to day, that hath sixteen Mimics in it, several Jack-Puddings, and Punchinelloes, never presented before, with two and thirty Dances and Jigs alamode besides.  Und. 
A Farce to day, say you?  Ang. 
Yes, & I hope to morrow, and to morrow, and so to the end of our lives.  Und. 
Must we still persist then to fool Wit out of countenance, and so bid farewell to good Plays and Comedy for ever?  Ang. 
We must, as I take it, until there are Poets that can write them.  Und. 
In the mean time, we are like to maintain a despicable Stage.  Ang. 
And why so, Sir, ought not that which gets the most money, be held the best Wit? I suppose our Company are much of that opinion.  Und. 
However, as I am an Actor, and bound to honour true Mirth and Comedy, I am so far concerned, that I could wish the Scaramuchos, and Jack-Puddings were sent to their proper Stages, since Plays are now grown so greasy with French Lard, that an Actor does not know how to handle them.  Ang. 
My right reverend Comedian, you are not wise, and thus I demonstrate it— I will play a Farce ten to one against a Comedy, Tragi-comedy, or any Heroic Play whatsoever.  Und. 
And be sure it will take?  Ang. 
I told you before, that was no question— nay more, I can assure you, that many good Wits of the Town encourage it, who damn all Plays besides.  Und. 
Perhaps in compassion to us Actors, or out of contempt to the Writers of this Age, whose Wit they judge cannot reach the elevation of their Brain.  Ang. 
No matter whether it be from the Poles above, or the Poles below, I am sure they are better than Pole-stars to us, provided they dispense their influence often here.  Und. 
And what shall become of the new Play, intended to have been this day presented?  Ang. 
Why, our Actors have soberly resolved, it shall be deferred to some other time.  Und. 
As I hope to act good part again, I am sorry for it; but is it certain?  Ang. 
There is nothing certain in the world, though 'tis so concluded, unless some unexpected prohibition, or Fate hinder it— but 'tis almost time.  Enter Noakes. 
We withdraw in order to our parts and properties— here comes Mr. Noakes ready dressed.  Und. 
Then I perceive we shall have a Farce to purpose, and 'tis odds, but he personates one beetle-browed Fellow or other.  Ang. 
O Mr. Noaks, you have habited yourself very properly.  Noak. 
According to my best apprehension, Gentlemen.  Und. 
But you should not have entered with your face grimed, 'twill discover too much of our Farces plot beforehand.  Noak. 
There's good design in it, I warrant you.  Und. 
But what shall we do for a Prologue?  Noak. 
Leave that to me, Sirs, I'll give 'em one a new way.  Ang. 
Mark that, Mr. Underhill; and shall we have a novelty in our Prologue, Mr. Noakes?  Noak. 
I have devised it purposely, because a new way is generally taking in what kind soever.  Und. 
I am much of that opinion, since I have observed that new nonsense is valued more than old Wit..  Noak. 
What think you then, if I speak to all the Judges in the Pit by looks and grimasks?  Ang. 
A rare and prodigious thought! I have known a device like this, serve well in a Play.  Und. 
And hath been thought a good Scene too.  Noak. 
And first on you Critics, I'll leer thus, like a satire; for the moderate Wits thus; for ho, ho, ho's, who laugh in such good earnest, when there is no Jest given them, comically thus.  Enter Changeling. Und. 
No more of your grimasks, good Mr. Noakes.  Noak. 
And why so, Sir?  Und. 
Because I have considered better, and since 'tis resolved, we shall have a Prologue to our Farce, here is one shall give it 'em the Farce way exactly.  [To the Changeling.] Ang. 
There's nothing better— the very Pudding of our Farce that must fill the Audience up to the throat with laughter.  Noak. 
Since you will have it so, you shall find me reasonable; I confess 'tis a pretty toyish modish way.  Und. 
And what is most extraordinary, he shall dance out a Prologue.  Ang. 
A Prologue to be danced, aha, aha, Boys.  [Angel leaps.] Noak. 
And I make Still-Musick with my mouth the whilst, shall I, Sirs?  Und. 
'Tis not amiss; come hither, Changeling, and set your feet, and looks in order for the Prologue.  Chang. 
Shall it be with my face, feet, and hands, tredoudling thus?  Omnes. 
'Tis very innocent and well.  Chang. 
I'll warrant you, I'll tredoudle it so, that it shall take to purpose.  Omnes. 
Music there for the Prologue.  The Music plays, he dances a while, then is heard a noise wish Thunder and Lightning, at which time Ben. Johnson personated rises from below. Noak. 
Ha, Thunder and Lightning!— I hope the Madam Muses are not displeased with us.  Ang. 
But what apparition is this moving towards us?  Und. 
As I am an Actor, 'tis the Genius of the old Comic Poet Ben. Johnson, I know it by his Picture that hangs up in the Strand.  Ang. 
Fly, fly, Associates, there's no being on the Stage longer, for us of the Farce party.  [They go off several ways.] 
After which Ben. Johnson personated, goes up to the Audience, and speaks a Prologue.   

The Second Prologue personated like Ben Johnson rising from below.  
BEhold I Ben appear, your Poet once,  
That living durst a vengeance here denounce  
On all the Stages Crimes, and Judges dare  
To make my Wit their sense, or else their fear;  
Thus have I left th' Elysium Shades and Groves,  
The sacred Mansions of the Muse's Loves,  
Where I my Bays till now unwithered saw  
In my immortal Plays, that here gave Law.  
But now provoked, the Muse's quarrel take,  
And from their call thus my appearance make;  
Did I instruct you (well ne'er half an Age)  
To understand the Grandeur of the Stage,  
With the exactest Rules of Comedy,  
Yet now you're pleased with Wits low frippery,  
Admitting Farce, the trifling mode of France,  
T infect you with fantastic ignorance,  
Forgetting 'twas your glory to behold,  
Plays wisely formed, such as I made of old;  
But by my Bays I swear, if you persist,  
And my Judicious Cautions hence resist,  
I'll next rise with the Furies from below,  
That scourge vile Poets there with Scorpions too,  
And with those circled, hiss at you, and them,  
Except the Scenes just Grandeur you redeem;  
Thus for your Crimes, but what this day will be,  
The fate and merit of the Play you'll see;  
I scarce divine, nor did its Author raise  
Me by a Poet's charm to give him praise.  
I never had an Ear was soothed by Rhyme,  
Or flattered to protect a Writers crime.  
And might this Author's modesty offend,  
Should my Encomium here his Play commend;  
Who now prevents it, whilst methinks I hear  
A whisper of his doubtings in my ear;  
His fears are many, there's such Fate in Wit,  
That Plays from fortune more than merit hit,  
Whose Muse would blush for such a guilty chance,  
Since 'twere the bounty of your ignorance.  
But though your crimes in judgement he forbears,  
Take heed, how Ben provoked, once more appears.   

Third Prologue.  

YOU see what little Arts we're fain to try,  
To give a Prologue some variety;  
Wit you have had, perhaps, in many new,  
Though Farce, and Dance, (your much loved mirth) in few.   

But why Great Johnson's Ghost should thus appear,  
As if to hector Wits, and Critics here,  
Who (if the Devil were Poet) would not fear?   

'Twas a bold Fiction, and so let it go,  
Yet thus far 'tis instructive unto you;  
That should you recollect your Judging Crimes,  
The Ribaldry of Plays in Prose, and Rhimes,  
Johnson might rise indeed, and own it true.   

His Plays were Laws to Wit, and Plot well told,  
But such you slight, (though wise) because theyare old;  
And well it is for Writers, since that way  
You might expect from all who write a Play.   

True Comedy, the moral Mirth of Plays,  
Lives now the glory of dead Poets Bays,  
And like the Phoenix (though confessed to be)  
Produces few of her Posterity.   

So rare a piece, our Poet dares not say  
You now shall see, but as weak Pencils may  
From Titian, or Vandike example take,  
And in their figures small resemblance make.   

So 'twas the business of our Author's Pen,  
To paint some life of Comedy again,  
And like to such as would, but cannot Feast,  
Does wish your entertainment were the Best.    

The Persons Names.  

Tysamnes A Persian Prince Married to the Queen of Scythia. 
Mr. Harris.  Bassanes A General, and Prince of the Blood of Scythia. 
Mr. Young.  Foscaris A Gentleman of Quality, who longs for his Wife after he has parted with her. 
Mr. Smith.  Andrages Another Husband, who loves his Wife so well that he cannot part with her, though she seems to provoke him to it. 
Mr. Crosby.  Toxaris Courtier to Parisatis Queen of Scythia. 
Mr. Standford.  Alvanes Courtier to Parisatis Queen of Scythia. 
Mr. Cademan.  Araxis Courtier to Parisatis Queen of Scythia. 
Mr. Norris.  Draxanes Friend to Bassanes. 
Mr. adam's.  Eumenes' Friend to Bassanes. 
Mr. Westwood.  Two Courtiers. 
 Parisatis Queen of Scythia. 
Mrs. Betterton.  Mandana A Queen of the Amazons. 
Mrs. Long.  Statyra A great Persian Lady formerly beloved by Tysamnes. 
Mrs. Johnson.  Clarina Wife to Foscaris. 
Mrs. Shadwell.  Melvissa Wife to Andrages. 
Mrs. Dixon.  Four Court Ladies. 
  Daranthe Chief Commandress of the Amazons. 
Mrs. Lee.  Cydane Embassadress from the Queen Mandana. 
Mrs. Lilborne.  Renone Embassadress from the Queen Mandana. 
Mrs. Wright.  Masquers. 
  Attendants. 
  Guards. 
    
The Scene Scythia.   

THE womens' Conquest. A TRAGICOMEDY.  
ACT I. SCENE I.  Enter Toxaris, Alvanes, and Araxis. Tox. 
WEll Mortals, if any live happy,  
'Tis we Scythians at this day.  Arax. 
And prithee why?  Tox. 
Are not we Men?  Arax. 
Yes, and Courtiers.  Tox. 
And what's more, have our Amours unquestioned  
By those meager sort of Females, Wives, whose entails  
We can cut off at pleasure, sometimes held necessary  
In case of Age, or accidental Ugliness;  
Is this no Felicity?  Alva. 
A sign we had our Predecessors men.  Tox. 
ay, and such Souls of Matrimony, that  
Would be all in all in every Act and  
Concern of Woman; changing Wives at pleasure,  
Sometimes, as oft as Menial Servants▪ how would  
The Wary Spaniard, the more Jealous Italian  
Glory, had they like privilege?  Alu. 
And yet,  
Methinks, this custom of our Nation  
In so absolute a dominion over  
That weaker sex, is not a little rigid.  Tox. 
Prithee marry then, and if thou dost not  
Find it necessary; thou'lt be more easy  
Yoked then most in Scythia.  Alu. 
But our Queen's marriage  
Is my wonder, with this Persian Prince  
Tysamnes.  Arax. 
She is wise in all her Actions.  Alva. 
Yet not by any privilege exempted  
From this our Nations Law, though a Queen;  
'Twere well, she had made it first, some Act of State.  Arax. 
At least to exempt herself: Princes are  
But men, sometimes most various.  Tox. 
It speaks her  
Confidence in her new made Husband.  Arax. 
Or rather the strength of her own virtue,  
That dares trust her merit to embark  
In any storm, should it arise from what  
('Twere sin to think) Ingratitude.  Alu. 
May they live great and prosperous.  Arax. 
Tysamnes is a Prince endued with many Graces,  
Famed equal with the best Captains of our Times,  
In noble deeds of War; and though but younger  
Brother of the Persian Crown, against  
Nature's act, deserves the first place in that Throne.  Enter Foscaris. Alva. 
Here comes Foscaris, a Gentleman, that has  
Newly parted with his Wife, a fair one too.  Arax. 
But that's a change in this part of Scythia,  
Few repent, where Women like to flowers,  
Are often placed in bosoms, but till Love  
Fades their sweetness— what Foscaris!—  Fosc. 
The merry'st man 'twixt this and Babylon, Gentlemen.  Tox. 
You have parted with your Wife.  Fosc. 
And a fair riddance too; though as Women  
Go now, I think she was virtuous.  Alva. 
Dost thou not therefore feel some regret  
For rejecting from thy embrace, so deserving a  
Lady?  Fosc. 
No more than a child for throwing away  
A toy, when weary of the pastime.  
Alas, I have lain by her a whole Moon,  
Enjoyed all her nights, and days varieties:  
Passed the beginning, the middle, and even  
The bottom of all can be called fruition;  
Which I confess was most delicious;  
But the heavy thought that this must prove  
In the end, but dull repetition,  
Did so cloy my appetite.  Tox. 
Perhaps before it had taken a just fill.  Alu. 
I confess, had I espoused such a Lady  
I should have been content to have served Love  
Two Apprenticeships at least— But oh the wonders  
Of Matrimony! how soon has mankind  
Enough of the honey of Wedlock.  Fosc. 
Nay, I dare commend her Graces, besides  
I think she loved me; and for her person  
Pygmalion's Image might have been copied  
From her lineaments. A Face in every feature  
Pleasing: such an Eye! such a Lip! with a Cheek  
Jove ne'er was famed a smother to impress;  
With something yet, then all, more taking.  Arax. 
And hadst thou not better have kept this delicate  
Food of Love, though thou hadst changed sometimes  
A meal; rather than thus utterly to forsake her?  Fosc. 
Alas! I had my Surfeit, Gentlemen, and was  
So Wife-sick; she seemed to me Loves potion.  Tox. 
For my part, were I in thy case, and had  
A Face of Brass, I should go near to blush through't.  
Here comes the Lady—  Enter Clarina. Clar. 
To be thus thrown from him without a cause,  
Or act of ill laid to my charge: on privilege  
Of this our Countries Ignominious usage;  
And by a man I loved so well?  
Vile, and inhuman custom!  Tox. 
I hope her virtues, and thy crime will move thee  
To repentance: thou art else such a  
Tyrant-husband, as has no like, even  
In this hard-hearted Clime of ours.  Fosc. 
Rather indulgent, that gave her means of  
Freedom: I opened but the Cage, and  
Now Love may fly, as it lists.  Clar. 
By my example—  
Let none be henceforth made a Bride in Scythia;  
Where sacred Ties, and chastest Love  
Is no security.  Tox. 
Though I am a true Scythian and partly  
Of thy humour, I could wish thee, (for this act,)  
Some fatal penitence.  Fosc. 
Ha, ha, ha,— Is that  
Possible in a man of my complexion?  Clar. 
He scarce vouchsafes a look on me; when but  
So late, each beam of mine was more  
Considerable than warmth of Sunshine.  Alu. 
We must now leave you to your better thoughts:  
The General Bassanes is arrived the Court.  
Our attendance is expected— pity  
Clarina has no kinder Husband.  [Exeunt Alu. Tox. Araxis. Fosc. 
I'll wait on you Gentlemen: I served  
But lately under his command—  Clar. 
You have no pity left for me?—  [Offers to go out, Clar. stays him. Fosc. 
A little somewhat; but thou seest I am now  
In haste.  Clar. 
I'll be as brief; take me to thy embrace,  
My dear Foscaris: thou know'st I loved thee  
Virtuously and truly well: if I have done  
Amiss in any act unknown; I'll bend  
My knees for pardon.  Fosc. 
Alas! I charge thee  
With no crime; but Marriage is such a mischief,  
It makes Friends sometimes differ, they know not why;  
For which I thank my Country's dispensation:  
Otherwise as a Mistress, I think no Lady  
In our Court deserves before thee.  Clar. 
When e'er you wed (as soon perhaps you may)  
May you espouse one far more beautiful  
And equal to my affection— so farewell—  Fosc. 
Adieu— adieu: I'll not kiss her at parting,  
Lest I lick myself into Love again;  
And yet methinks I could almost be content:  
'Tis a pretty black-eyed rogue, and was so  
Amorous and Airy.— Heaven forbid  
I be not once more smitten, and so proceed  
To a second Wooing; but I hope I am armed—  [Ex. Foscaris. Enter Melvissa. Clar. 
This unkindness grieves me.  Melu. 
What! sad Clarina?  Clar. 
I had ne'er more cause, Madam— my Husband.—  Melu. 
What of him? I dreamt that he courted thee  
With more firé then ever; and my dreams I  
Can tell thee, hit unhappily sometimes.  Clar. 
He is most unkind; a Husband of our cruel mode  
Perfectly, who having gathered but so late  
My Virgin flower, has thrown me from his breast,  
As if already faded— and yet I needs must say,  
I love him still.  Melu. 
Thence came thy mischief;  
The very spring of all thy Tears: we Wives  
Must use more dexterity in managing  
Of Husbands here; and that way, if possible,  
Get some hand on their Affections: nor should They bed with us; but when we please,  
Or when our healths require it: the soft and gentle  
Not seldom most slighted: The truth is, Marriage  
Amongst us is a most dangerous food of Love:  
And therefore we must use more wit for sauce,  
Our men will be else so cloyed, and cast us off  
With no more concern, than we give a dish  
Of meat after having well fed on't, to our Waiters.  Clar. 
But I was so tender,  
In giving cause of separation—  Melu. 
'Thad fixed him surer to thee; nor is it hopeless,  
But the sense of thy Virtues and Beauty  
May work in him some thoughts of reconcilement:  
There have been (though rarely) such examples.  Clar. 
Might I but live to be so happy!—  Melu. 
Besides I have a means, if all fail  
To do thee service— thou dar'st confide in me?—  Clar. 
With all assurance.  Melu. 
You must be secret.  Clar. 
As a thought within your breast.  Melu. 
And mark me; if thou find'st this work him up  
To love again—  Clar. 
I doubt the end will prove impossible.  Melu. 
That's as the means are ordered: Love will find out  
Ways sometimes as extraordinary; which made  
A famous Poet write a Book of Lovers Arts,  
Not much inferior to Medea's Charms:—  
And be sure when you see him next, let it  
Seem against thy will, as if thou'dst stand  
If possible, at like distance from him;  
As the sphere of fixed Stars: adding convenient  
Pride and scorn, no small artifice in our sex.  Clar. 
Your Copies somewhat hard  
To be practised by a Lover.  Melu. 
'Tis but a just revenge in thy Case.  Clar. 
I shall observe your fair instructions.  Enter Andrages. Melu. 
See, here's my man of Venus; an example  
Of my skill and conduct— observe him well,  
And thou shalt see, I have an humble servant  
Instead of Lord and Master— is't not so, Andrages?  Andra. 
Your will's a Law, Madam.  Melu. 
In spite of our Nation's custom, is it not?  Andra. 
The same, Madam.  Clar. 
This is a language, I have  
Not heard before from a Scythian Husband.  Melu. 
And yet, I'll say thus much, for this thing  
Of my embrace: he dares vie with the best  
Of our Gallants; and cope with Mars himself  
If met in field; nor less would be concerned  
For every frown of mine, with any he  
That durst despise 'em: Am I not right, Andrages?  Andra. 
My life's at your command.  Clar. 
You have a power I see indeed, and doubt not but you'll use it nobly.  Melu. 
We must rule thus, or we are lost here:  
What's a Venus that cannot lead her Mars  
In triumph?— Andrages, perhaps I'll sleep  
With thee to night for this—  Andra. 
You'll be most welcome Madam.  Clar. 
This day some considerable of our Sex  
Join in a Petition to our Queen and  
New made King.  Melu. 
'Tis to abrogate their abuse,  
In the arbitrary rule of men.  Clar. 
I hope 'twill prove a seasonable request,  
Since now the Queen has made herself a party;  
In taking of a Princely Husband.  Melu. 
Thou hast eloquence, and shalt be one of  
Our fair Speakers in this Cause.  Clar. 
You compliment me Madam,  
Though I am obliged to serve the interest.  Melu. 
We must appear with the fair number  
Who expect us to confer— Andrages—  
Wait my coming home about the hour of nine.  [Ex. Melu. and Clarina. Andra. 
With all observance, Madam—  
Was ever Gentleman and Soldier thus hen-pecked  
As I am? nay, against the privilege of mankind  
Here, endure it? that can discharge a Wife  
With a breath: sure there's some extraordinary  
Magic in't; and I find by my inclinations,  
I am so unfortunate to love her at that rate,  
As I cannot rid myself of her, though I  
Suffer to death, or what's worse, the miseries  
Of a vexatious wedlock.  Enter Foscaris. Fosc. 
What Andrages? heavy and drooping!  Andr. 
Somewhat out of Tune.  Fosc. 
Nay, then 'tis odds, but thou  
Art smitten, or at least ruminating  
On some new beauty.  Andr. 
Would that were the worst.  Fosc. 
The very best of our Banes, that have proved  
Wedlock— Come I'll sing thee a catch I have  
Made on this subject.  He Sings. 

What though her Eyes are black,  
And kisses with a knack,  
Nature's best skill e'er created?  
In time she may prove  
A surfeit to Love;  
And so deserve to be hated.   

2.  
Love freed from this diet  
Is best kept at quiet,  
The wanton still longs for to range;  
Let's thank then our Laws  
In Wedlock's frail cause,  
Gave Husbands a Licence to change.   Andr. 
This is all discord to my malady.  Fosc. 
I took thee to have been longing after  
New flesh and blood, or rather sick of thy wife,  
Is not that it?  Andr. 
Thou dost not mock me?  Fosc. 
No, o' my life!  Andr. 
Why then I'll tell thee,  
I love her a thousand times better, then  
When I longed for her first enjoyment.  Fosc. 
Is that possible in a man of thy Genius?  Andr. 
Let me be punished else.  Fosc. 
Alas! poor Soldier of Cupid:  
I have parted with a Wise fair enough  
To have figured Venus by, and for that only cause,  
Because a Wife: I'd fain see the power of Man,  
Or Angel, bring me again to the like dotage.  Andr. 
Nay more, should she scratch me once a day,  
Or use me with that Amazonian confidence  
Practised in our neighbouring Scythia, where  
Her Sex has the supremacy, and are  
So many she Tyrants: I think I should  
Endure it, and love her: If this be not Magic,  
There's none betwixt us and the North Pole.  Fosc. 
Visit her bed often; and if that does not do it,  
There's no surfeit in Wedlock.  Andr. 
Alas! I have not leave to come there, but rarely,  
And on such terms of good behaviour,  
That I am almost in an Ague the while.  Fosc. 
The very name of Humourist, methinks  
Should bid thee quit her, there's scarce a worse evil.  
Or if she be modish, and a wit, 'tis odds,  
But she makes it her luxury to abuse thee,  
And bite thee at every turn of thy tongue. If not, make any thing thy quarrel, to bid  
Adieu to her, thou'lt else shame thy Country's privilege.  Andr. 
But I am such a Dotard—  Fosc. 
And yet i'th' Camp  
And Court, well knowing, as most of our  
Time; I pity thee—  Enter Bassanes, Alvanes, Toxaris, Eumenes, and Draxanes. Andr. 
See the General Bassanes.  Fosc. 
A Prince of high renown and virtue;  
Now returned from ending our Tartarian War:  
We'll pay him our respects at time of fitter  
Opportunity—  [Ex. Foscaris and Andrages. Alu. 
The Queen by us, my Lord,  
That have the honour to fore-speak her joys,  
Congratulates your Excellency's return.  Bass. 
She is a gracious Lady; and though but late  
Made my Intelligence, has taken  
The Persian Prince, Tysamnes, for her Husband.  Alu. 
A Prince that Court does loudly fame, surpassing  
All the race of the Arsacides, whence he derives  
His blood.  Bass. 
Her virtue is a mate for his;  
Let it be great as e'er did live upon the name  
Of mortal; but I that have a Soldier's plainness  
A little wonder, although her King I hold  
Of highest merit: since there is no act precedes  
To exempt her Royal Person, from that fate  
Of Marriage, the force of custom here  
May even inflict upon the greatest.  Tox. 
It seemed below her Soul and Love, to make  
That caution, some wise amongst us wish.  Bass. 
Tysamnes! married to the Queen! if I  [Aside. 
Forget not I had Advertisement upon his first  
Arrival at her Court, and from a Persian hand  
Of trust, that he there loved a Lady; nay more,  
Was thought to have assured himself to her.  Eum. 
The General's a little discomposed.  Drax. 
Perhaps some discontent relating to the Queen's marriage.  Bass. 
If this prove true, Heaven too soon may frown  
On all these joys— what are these Ladies?  Enter Melvissa, Clarina, and four other Ladies, each with a Paper in her hands. Tox. 
They are come to wait upon the King and Queen.  
This day of State, on some concern of their Sex.  Bass. 
'tis well.  Enter Araxis. Arax. 
The King and Queen are ready to come forth.  Alu. 
We must attend— your Lordship's pardon.  Bass. 
I have some orders to dispatch unto  
The Camp, and then I'll wait their Majesties—  [Exit Bassanes, etc. Tox. Alu. Arax. another way, manent Mel. Clar. and four Ladies. Melu. 
It behooves us now Ladies, to weigh the force,  
And effect of those Arguments we have prepared  
To assail so formidable an enemy, as Men and Husbands, fortified  
With that so invincible Champion, Custom;  
I hope you are all well provided?  1 Lady. 
Doubt it not Madam, women seldom want wit  
To serve their desires and occasions.  Melu. 
Well said pretty one, young and forward,  
And for Illustrations and Metaphors, of  
This heinous usage and tyranny of our Matrimonial  
Lords and Masters, such were to be wished,  
Are most pathetical and persuasive.—  1 Lady. 
I have taken mine, Madam, from  
The example of Socrates, that most grave  
Philosopher, who not only endured the ill  
Humour, but the supremacy of his Wife,  
As worthy of imitation.  Melu. 
A famous precedent!  2 Lady. 
And I mine, Ladies, from that most dreadful  
Story of Andromeda, chained to a Rock;  
Is it not so, my dear Tysamnes?  Tysam. 
Thou art above my wishes excellent.  Arax. 
The Queen expressed herself most nobly.  Tox. 
If not too confiding in her choice.  Clar. 
We must submit.  1 Lady. 
Since there's no remedy.  Melu. 
I'll serve thee yet Clarina! it shall go hard else.  Enter Bassanes, Eumenes, and Draxanes. Par. 
Welcome, as I can express Bassanes—  
Thy Victories were early here on Rumour's wing,  
Which made the grim-looked Tartars beg a peace  
From us: and next my joys of love, completed here,  [To Tys. 
I must rejoice thy safe return, thou pillar  
Of thy Country, and glory of my Crown,  
To call thee both my Subject, and Alliance.  Bass. 
My duty is best paid in the performance  
Of your services, which I shall ever study.  Tysam. 
Let me embrace thee worthy man;  
The title which I have to thy brave merit,  
In my enjoyment of this beauteous Queen,  
Obliges me to hold thy virtues dear  
That bring'st me Triumph home, before I scarce  
Have warmed this Throne.  Arax. 
Our new King does caress him highly.  Tox. 
His interest is great.  Par. 
I understand  
You saw Mandana's Court, our neighbour  
Queen, on your return?  Bass. 
I did Madam.  Par. 
There Women govern all.  Bass. 
To wonder, Madam—  
Make War, lead Armies, with all transactions  
Of the highest Magnitude in State,  
To whom the men are held subordinate.  Par. 
Their Queen's a Lady, Fame reports Wise,  
Magnanimous, and no less Beautiful.  Bass. 
I think all these may well be said to meet  
In her.  Par. 
But the manner of her rule seems strange  
To me.  Bass. 
If compared with ours here; but they  
Lay claim to that prerogative, from the  
Ancient Amazon's whence they derive descent.  Par. 
'Twas said Mandana did intend an Embassy  
Unto our Court in some short time.  Bass. 
She gave me so to understand.  Tysam. 
A beauteous one no doubt.  Bass. 
They are Women, Sir.  Tysam. 
We'll treat'm then as fairly.  Par. 
But credit me, I should not like my reign  
So well, were my Sex here alike in power;  
Since nature and the world's best Laws  
Have dignifyed the man superior.  Tysam. 
Spoke like my Parisatis— methinks we  
Are not cheerful; I have joys enough to raise  
A man above the world, had he made forfeit  
Of his bliss— You told me of a mask,  
My Soul does want a little clearing up—  [Aside. Par. 
I did appoint one.  Tysam. 
By any means we'll have it.  — Music plays a while, after which the Masque begins; the Scene a Grove, in which Diana is beheld sleeping, having at one of the sides next the Stage a Rock, from which— Enters Arethusa habited like a Water-Nymph. Areth. 
Echo! if thou dost visit this fair Grove,  
Where thou hast often mourned Narcissus love;  
At Arethusa's call appear.  Echo. 
Appear.  Areth. 
Once more 'tis Arethusa calls thee here.  Echo within. 
Here!  Areth. 
That's but thy voice, thy person I would see,  
Once known a Nymph of highest dignity.  Enter Echo as out of t'other side of the Grove. Echo. 
Behold bright Arethusa I resume  
My long lost Figure, since Heavens fatal doom  
Deprived me of my dear Narcissus flames.  Areth. 
I bear as great a grief confined to streams,  
Could never yet with loved Alpheus join;  
Think if thy loss can greater be then mine?  Echo. 
Fair Nymph, with yours I'll not compare my woe,  
Since with thy tears thy crystal fountains flow;  
And by a wondrous constancy do glide  
Through veins of earth unmixed with other tide,  
Which Thetis for thy glory did decree,  
And great Diana Honours Constancy.  Areth. 
I wait to see her bathe in my cool floods,  
Having a long chase followed in these Woods.  Echo. 
She in this Grove with her fair Nymphs does sleep,  
While with my wakeful voice her watch I keep;  
Lest Mortals here (Actaeon like) should pry,  
And ravish blushes from her Deity.—  
Behold she wakes.  [She wakes. 

The Song in the Masque.  1 Nym. 
See, see, our Goddess wakes,  
Whilst we harmonious notes prepare,  
Such as bright Phoebus makes,  
When to salute Aurora 's car,  
The Music of his sphere he takes.  Diana riseth and enters with her Nymphs. 2 Nym. 
Or as before her Curtains drawn  
We welcome in the grey-eyed dawn,  
When for the Chase  
Diana bends her matchless bow,  
And gives herself the first hollow.  1 Nym. 
Then through Plains, Lawns, and Woods  
Over Mountains and Floods  
Nymphs tripit, Nymphs trip it apace.  2 Nym. 
Whilst the Hart, Deer, or Roe  
They swiftly pursue,  
Their Goddess best pleaseth to chase.  1 Nym. 
See she appears  
More bright than Hesperus does rise,  
Whose beams Stars borrow for their eyes.   Dian. 
Beloved of Nymphs whose chaste and constant stream,  
Shall give thy Love an everlasting name;  
More dear to me then Xanthus' floods so bright,  
Or my own Cynthia's beams that gild the night;  
Art thou to tread a Chorus come with me,  
As once a Nymph of my society?  Areth. 
Blessed Goddess know from Thetis I am sent  
To wait thee first with her great Compliment;  
Who, if not too much Neptune's Billows rave,  
Will soon pass hither in a Crystal wave.  Dian. 
She shall be welcome. But first Nymph on thee  
Diana, (to renown thy constancy)  
Does from her hand this precious gift bestow,  
Sprung from the tree, whence grew her sacred bow;  
On which with finest silk my Nymphs have wove,  
The wondrous story of thy streams and love.  [Puts on a Chaplet. Areth. 
This grace loved Goddess, I must ever own,  
While Arethusa by that name is known;  
But if I may thy Deity entreat,  
I'd gladly yet with my Alpheus meet.  Dian. 
Thrice beauteous Nymph, thou su'st I fear in vain,  
But for thy merit if I can obtain,  
Or Cynthia's aid can help, she shall convey  
His gentle current where thy stream has way.  Enter Thetis attended with several Sea-Nymphs. Omnes. 
For which let's all Diana's praises sing.  Dian. 
Stay Nymphs, here comes the Queen to Seas great King.  Thet. 
chaste Goddess, I am come to let thee know,  
What to thy Graces, Neptune's Queen does owe  
; And for this Nymph the honour of all floods,  
As these with thee make sacred groves and woods.  
For which to speak my thanks I'd gladly tread  
The stately Chorus, thy bright self does lead.  Dian. 
Great Thetis know, no footsteps ever joined  
With me a Chorus, but bear souls refined;  
For which I have denied some gods of late,  
Said to have fell from their celestial state.  Thet. 
I once gave ear unto such tales like thee,  
But proved it soon my vain credulity;  
Nor on my waves did then rough Boreas blow,  
But I my Nymphs hid in deep Cells below.  
Since fame had told his strong arms did embrace  
The fair Orithia snatched o'er Seas to Thrace.  Dian. 
Nor was it Thetis truth, Achilles came  
From great Peleus, and thy own soft flame.  Thet. 
Such stories may relate as much of thee,  
Which tell the Moons sublime Divinity;  
Though thy chaste brows her Heavenly figure wear,  
Did for Endymion's love forsake her sphere:  
While such like Tales the guilty Poets sing,  
To feign their Hero's from the Gods did spring.  Dian. 
Queen of the Seas my censure was too free,  
'Twere sin to doubt truth in a Deity:  
Nor will I think that Goddess e'er did burn,  
In such frail humane flames my chaste thoughts mourn:  
But now behold with me this mortal Throne,  
Merits from our immortal powers renown.  Thet. 
I do embrace the motion, since here's seen  
A Throne as bright as each of us sat Queen;  
May Love there find, serenest calms their days,  
Such as my haltions choose that breed on Seas.  Areth. 
Or as my streams no mingled currents own,  
So let their Loves be undivided known.  Echo. 
May Cupid else for ever lose his Bow.  Omn. 
And for Love's Goddess none his Mother know.  Thet. 
To honour whom, thy best known Chorus lead,  
And with the Ocean's race like steps I'll tread.  Dan. 
Then Nymphs express with mine your measures powers,  
As when we dance on tender grass and flowers:  
Leaving no signs our nimble footsteps show,  
Or as on Mountains tops, we tread on snow.  [They Dance. Enter Cupid. Thet. 
Cupid, art thou come hither?  Cup. 
I flew this way  
To meet my Mother, is she amongst ye pray?  Dian. 
Away, thou amorous toy, dar'st thou be here,  
Where I to honour constant Love appear?  Cup. 
I have a shaft here left within a Heart  
I'd fain withdraw.  Dian. 
No more vile Boy, departed,  
Thy Mother's Arts and thine, I too well know.  Cup. 
Then see I fly with an unbended Bow.—  [Ex. Cupid. Dian. 
Thetis farewell! I'll to my Woods resort.  Thet. 
But e'er I hence return to Neptune's Court,  
Let's yet more honour Arethusa's name.  Dian. 
This night I bathe myself in her clear stream.  Thet. 
Where I'll attend thee with my watery race,  
And Nymphs, whose Songs shall there thy Chorus grace.  Areth. 
For which my fountains clearest springs shall flow.  Echo. 
And my best Echoes voice pay duty too.  Dian. 
Till when farewell Seas Queen.  Thet. 
Goddess adieu.  [Exeunt Masques. Tysam. 
It seems a Moral.  Par. 
And meant of constancy, I gave the Argument myself.  Tysam. 
Most fit To entertain thy Virtue. What sight is that?  Enter. Statyra. Tox. 
The King seems troubled.  Bass. 
My heart misgives me this is she.  Par. 
How does my Love?  Tysam. 
Your leave a while— Canst thou forgive me fair Statyra?—  [Goes aside, to Statyra. Stat. 
And wish you happy in your royal choice,  
She is a Princess far above my merit:  
Enough that I have seen your face and die.  Tysam. 
Thou hadst my promise first, Heaven is my witness,  
And give me but thy leave to expiate  
My crime, in due expression of my penitence,  
By some act unthought of; if possible,  
To win thy Love's forgiveness.  Stat. 
'Tis needless—  
Your leave that I return, I'll not ask  
So much as a farewell kiss—  Tysam. 
I must oblige a while thy stay: Bassanes,  
Wait this Lady to my Garden lodgings  
With all observance—  Bass. 
I shall Sir—  [Ex. Bassanes and Statyra. Tysam. 
The ambition to possess a Crown has had too much  
The better of my Conscience—  
Come Parisatis.  [Goes to Paris. Par. 
Your looks seem troubled.  Tysam. 
A trivial thought I'm moving from my heart.  Par. 
From mine, I'm sure, your love shall never part.  [Exeunt Omnes.  

ACT II. SCENE I.  Enter Eumenes and Draxanes. Eumen. 
IT seems the Ladies had but small success  
In their Petition.  Drax. 
And yet they urged things  
Home and unhappily.  Eumen. 
Women ne'er want zeal, feldom wit  
To perfect their desires; but men have here  
So long had the Lee-ward point of love, as  
They must be content with the Wether Gage;  
Which casts not a few on the rocks of Wedlock.  Drax. 
For my part I could wish, that Nature had  
Taken some other way for the procreation  
Of mankind; since both Sexes have so much ado  
To agree of the means— But we are Soldiers.  Eum. 
And therefore have the less reason to blame  
Our Country's freedom, since 'tis odds, but we  
Take as much, if we make a true Muster  
Of our Mistresses.  Drax. 
But the Queen's opposing  
This desire seemed to many unexpected.  Eum. 
'Twas to oblige the King no doubt; and by  
The prerogative of her virtues, live  
Above the Law, or whatsoever could give a fate  
To her enjoyment.  Drax. 
He's now more absolute  
Than e'er was Sovereign that reigned  
But in the right of Queen. His Creatures  
Dignifyed in Court and Camp; that almost  
'Tis within his Will to rule alone, should  
He be guilty of that vile ambition.  Eum. 
She has expressed in every act a kindness  
Most unparallelled.  Drax. 
I wish their Loves a peaceful happiness.  Eum. 
'T was hoped she might have respected our  
General Bassanes in her choice, a Prince  
Of Scythia's Royal blood, and favoured  
In this Nation with an interest equal  
To his birth.  Drax. 
But he it seems, as much in love  
With Mars, or paying duties to her service  
In the field, ne'er raised his thoughts and merit  
To that fair ambition.  Eum. 
We are his Creatures,  
And have served his dangers.  Enter Toxaris, Alvanes, and Araxis. Tox. 
Save ye Gentlemen;  
Your general thanks to his virtues, has given  
Our Crown at once both peace, and victory.  Drax. 
His conduct did deserve no less.  Alu. 
Had his return been sooner, perhaps 'thad  
Given some stay to the Queen's Marriage—  
But that's between ourselves.  Eum. 
The news surprised him,  
We must witness; as one was scarce consulted  
In that action.  Alu. 
She was a little hasty in her choice.  Arax. 
Though in her King, she seems to sum such joys  
As if she'd vie with Angels, as she shines,  
Espoused on earth to his affection.  Tox. 
Nor does the face o'th' Court, sometimes the glass  
Of Princes, discover ought save joys, and smiles,  
A sign to us Courtiers, the Throne's no less serene.  Eum. 
But in the midst of these methought the King  
Appeared disturbed at the presence of a  
Stranger Lady.  Arax. 
But that soon vanished.  Eum. 
Time will discover more.  Alu. 
This day, Mandana's  
Embassy is expected; 'tis said, they are Women.  Arax. 
Perhaps to compliment our Queen's Marriage;  
Or make some league betwixt their Amazonian  
State and us.  Eum. 
But say they should provoke us  
To a War; we must bring strange arms into  
The Field to have the better of this Generation,  
That dare fight with men.  Drax. 
I could methinks e'en wish a War,  
To see how these she Militants would  
Behave themselves; a home-charge with such Troops,  
Were winning of a field indeed Gentlemen.  Enter Bassanes and Statyra. Eum. 
Here comes the General and that Lady I spoke of.  Arax. 
She's wondrous fair.  Alu. 
May her beams give no dazzle  
To our King's affection; methought she moved  
Him strangely.  Tox. 
Our way lies this way to the Court—  [Ex. Tax. Alu. Arax. Drax. 
And ours here—  [Ex. Drax. and Eumen. Bass. 
Madam, you highly honour me  
In this discovery, from which I find  
Your name and birth illustrious, as Persia knows.  Stat. 
The acquaintance, Sir, I was obliged to make you,  
Since here my stay upon the King's command,  
Might else have stained the honour of my blood  
With such a character as curious eyes in Courts  
Are but too apt to give the least of favours  
That a Prince Vouchsafes a Lady.  Bass. 
You are wise  
And noble: and give me your fair leave  
To ask a question, my intelligence  
Assured me most undoubted.  Stat. 
If it be truth  
My Soul dares not deny it.  Bass. 
Then thus most noble Lady;  
Did not the King once love you?  Stat. 
I did not think  
Heaven had revealed what I had thought a secret—  [Aside. 
To his heart and mine— suppose he did, and yet  
I blush to charge him with a guilty truth.  Bass. 
It was my apprehension—  Stat. 
And since 'tis made your knowledge, I must further say  
My wrongs are fit to be conveyed as far  
As the world has bounds, or fame can stretch  
Her wings to bear 'em.  Bàss. 
I fear too sadly—  [Aside. 
But should you own this claim to his affection now.  Stat. 
My love's a truth too dear to smother, nor  
Did I come, but armed with resolutions  
Worthy of my Soul. And 'tis my highest service  
To his Queen (whose virtues I much honour)  
If I reveal to her my claim, and thence  
Mark out her dangers in this man of falsehood  
She enjoys.  Bass. 
I know you would not charge  
Him with this crime, on purpose to create  
Repentance; or if you did, who knows  
What were your dangers (I speak it not to  
Fright you Madam) that here must look like some  
Prodigious Star on a great King, made now  
So fully happy in the bed and glories of a Queen—  
Which how he will resent—  Stat. 
Let it be death, 'tis welcome from him.  Bass. 
Heaven avert it, Madam; yet 'tis not safe  
To tempt a passion past recall, though I  
Want not a pity to your virtue.  Stat. 
I thank your goodness.  Bass. 
Or say you could attract his past affection  
; And in each beam of yours, more deeply wound  
His heart then ever (as you have all things  
Summed at Nature's dearest cost, that can  
Enrich a Beauty) were it not glory  
To recede from such a Conquest.  Stat. 
Your Counsels noble I confess.  Bass. 
Besides we have a custom here that does  
Empower each common man to lose the very  
Gordian knot of love in marriage,  
That other Countries hold inviolate:  
What may then a King do to enjoy  
So bright a Mistress as yourself?  Stat. 
I find the World in this degenerate  
Faithless age of man has yet one  
Worthy left:  [Aside. 
Know then, most noble Prince, your Counsel does  
Conspire with the honour of Statyra's heart;  
And though I had a more superior title  
To the King's affection then the Queen can claim  
Though made his Consort; yet I for her sake now  
Forgive his breach of Faith; nay more, if 'twere  
Required, would freely give my life, to see  
Their Love's most happy.  Bass. 
Give me the honour  
Of your hand, to pay my humble adoration  
Of this virtue.  Stat. 
My stay shall not be longer here  
Then taking leave, becomes me of the King.  Bass. 
'Twill speak your worth.  Enter Tysamnes. 
The King— your pardon Madam—  [Ex. Bassanes. Tysam. 
Statyra! how dost thou like thy welcome  
In our Court?  Stat. 
As more than I intended to receive.  Tysam. 
Thou canst not soon be weary  
Of these shades, and pleasant walks, where  
Nightingales will meet, and sing  
New ravishments to entertain thy beauties:  
More glad to welcome thy appearance, than  
The morning joys, or evenings splendour that  
Invites their rest. I think thou might'st be well  
Content to live here still.  Stat. 
My honour is no child  
To be deluded with such toys, though gay  
As Paradise when first its sweetness bloomed,  
While but a thought of crime does ripen near me.  Tysam. 
Thou shalt be here as innocent as flowers  
That yield their smiles unto the distant Sun.  
You'll grant me sure, so much, Statyra?  Stat. 
I'll rather welcome death then yield to stay  
A minute longer near your person.  Tysam. 
I know thou art not so unkind.  Stat. 
Alas I came without design of love,  
Though once your lover.  Tysam. 
Statyra! hold, go not  
Too far in goodness, lest Heaven (to surprise  
My wonder) take thee hence, and place thee there  
A Star, or make me fall I know not whither.  Stat. 
I have done Sir— nor shall my presence give you  
More concern; or further accent repetition  
Of your sin to Heaven and me; that in despite  
Of all the darts of Love (so late my wound)  
Can with this smiling ease and calm of soul  
Bid you farewell for ever.—  [She offers to go, the King stays her. Tysam. 
You must not,  
Shall not leave me thus—  Stat. 
You will not, Sir, detain me  
Here by force?— what will your Court then whisper,  
Or the bolder world convey to both our infamies?  Enter Parisatis. 
I hope I have made enough expression  
Of my affection—  Par. 
What do I hear?  Tysam. 
'Tis but to give thee more assurance  
Of my love, for which I dare adventure  
Life and Crown.  Par. 
That word! oh my heart!—  [Aside. Stat. 
Then know who 'tis you stay—  
And thus dare frown upon your will.  Tysam. 
How's this?  Stat. 
And what I thought this breast should have concealed,  
I'll utter with a boldness does become my honour—  
And when you know it, you'll perhaps, as soon  
Cherish a Tygress near your bosom—  
Know Sir— I came with full intent to kill you—  
Mark me well: to kill you— for your faithless promise;  
But that the virtues of your Queen withheld me,  
In whom I wish you ever blessed: the whiteness  
Of whose Soul, I thought it sin to cloud  
(From act of mine) with sorrow.  Par. 
Forgive me Heaven;  
This Woman is some Angel sure; I can  
No longer hold but pay my reverence.  [Par. goes towards Stat. Tysam. 
We are interrupted— my Guard there!—  Enter Captain of the Guard. 
Convey that Lady from my sight, and see  
Her safe consigned within her lodgings.  Par. 
Let me beg for her freedom, though I do it  
On my knees—  Tysam. 
I must not grant it; she came  
To ruin my content, perhaps in thee;  
A Treason too she has confessed against my life.  Stat. 
Let me deserve your fair opinion, Madam,  
Though I die.  Tysam. 
Away with her— how does my Parisatis?—  [Ex. Statyra with the Captain of the Guard. Par. 
Never better— this dissipates my fear.  [Aside. Enter Bassanes. Bass. 
Embassadresses from  
The Queen Mandana are arrived.  Tysam. 
See their reception want no state our Court  
Can give; they shall have Audience speedily.  
Some thoughts require me to my Closet first.  [Ex. Tysamnes. Par. 
Bassanes, never so happy, as this minute  
In which I proved the fixed assurance of  
My King's affection. The Persian beauty  
Who but so late gave apprehensions to  
My love, is now no more my fear.  Bass. 
She is a noble Lady,  
And gave me confirmation of her honour.  Par. 
'Tis most unquestioned.  Bass. 
She does intend suddenly  
To return back to Persia.  Par. 
Alas! the King  
(To my great grief) in much displeasure  
Has restrained her.  Bass. 
I hope she'll soon have liberty.  Par. 
It shall not want my intercession.  Bass. 
Pray Heaven this be no Artifice.  Par. 
True love is soon confirmed; but in that Breast  [Aside. 
Suspicion storms, it ne'er can anchored rest.  [Exeunt. Enter Clarina and Melvissa. Clar. 
Our Petition had but small success.  Melu. 
No matter, as to thy case; did not I  
Promise to serve thee?  Clar. 
But where's the faith  
Believes it possible?  Melu. 
If it be next a Miracle,  
And do the feat, thou'lt welcome the effect?  Clar. 
However, my obligement's great to your endeavours.  Melu. 
What if a smile or look of thine, or a toy  
As inconsiderate as the least lock of thy hair,  
Produce his Love's return, as I apply it;  
Hast thou not reason to thank the means?  Clar. 
'Tis granted.  Melu. 
Therefore believe well; rememb'ring that  
We are told, a dram of faith can do  
Far greater wonders.  Clar. 
You shall confirm me,  
But I hope it is no Charm or Magic?  
I am strangely fearful of the Devil.  Melu. 
Rather a means from Heaven! my Mother  
Left it as a Legacy to me.  Clar. 
A Recipe most Wives may wish for here.  Melu. 
I thought to have given it to the Queen,  
But that perhaps 'twere death to own,  
And this our custom unrevoked.  Clar. 
I hope her virtues ne'er will want affection.  Melu. 
As it effects, I'll tell thee more.  Enter Foscaris. 
Here comes thy Husband, and I am prepared  
For him to purpose— thou must withdraw  
Till I give thee notice to appear.  [Ex. Clarina. Fosc. 
Madam! your most humble servant.  Melu. 
And I perhaps ten times more yours.  Fosc. 
This sounds briskly.  Melu. 
Not that I intent to instance,  
You have parted with a deserving Lady,  
And so press a reconciliation from  
The doctrine and uses of Love, as some Matrons  
Amongst us might perhaps ring in your ears  
In the like case.  Fosc. 
Far be it from me to  
Think it, Madam; I know you are well bred,  
And must therefore understand what better  
Belongs to our Mode, and a Gentleman, then so.  Melu. 
Well said Gallant— but I hope you'll not teach  
My Husband to follow your example;  
And like such a Buck as yourself, break  
Through the toil and bonds of Marriage;  
Though some of you allow it no more, than  
A State device to catch fools.  Fosc. 
This is a Witty Rogue; a Wife that understand;  
The intrigues of a Mistress.  Melu. 
Then say, my husband's wife  
Should think you a fine Gentleman—  Fosc. 
I understand you Madam.  Melu. 
And were willing to bestow some affection  
On your worth.—  Fosc. 
Go on Lady, go on; you are  
Coming to a point indeed.  Melu. 
There it is, you have it to a hair—  [Gives him a Bracelet enclosed in a Paper. 
I hope you will keep Counsel—  Fosc. 
O Madam! 'twere sin to doubt it.  Melu. 
And wear it carefully, for the owner's sake  
I mean, and so farewell kind Foscaris;  
If this fail, thou'rt proof above Mortal.  [Aside. 
Now to be near and act further as occasion serves.  [Ex. Melu. Fosc. 
What have I here? I'll open it carefully,  
And first taste it by the smell; it scents  
Most Ladylike, and amorous; methinks  
It moves too, I know not how: Oh these Women  
Are rare contrivers in these Scenes of Love—  
Now for the enclosed—  [Opens it. 
Ha, ha, ha, a Bracelet of a lock of Hair,  
In colour much resembling my Wives: but  
Such a trick on me, were to little purpose,  
I'll tangle no more there— but now I think on't,  
I have found the knack; as sure as I am made  
Of flesh and blood, 'tis Melvissa courts me  
For herself, for which purpose she handles  
Andrages, her husband, at that rate.  
'Tis a witty-gay female, as most within  
Our Kingdom; and it seems the Rascal's  
Willing to graft his forehead, and be beholding  
To his Friend for the Horn. In the mean time  
I'll pleasure her desire, and wear her favour.  [Puts it on his arm. 
The Devil on't, it warms the vein that leads  
To the Heart strangely; and 'tis love I feel  
In abundance— I must vent it somewhere,  
Or I shall burn to ashes; 'tis most certain I am  
Charmed to purpose, and 'tis odds but some evil spirit  
Waits at my elbow.  Melu. within. 
None but thy better Genius—  [Speaks altering of her voice. Fos. 
Ha! a voice too, then there is a Devil in the  
Case 'tis manifest— what art thou, and from whence?  Melu. 
I am a Spirit belonging to the element of fire.  Fosc. 
Thou hast some possession of me already then,  
Who am flame all over— what is thy business?  Melu. 
Love, kindest Love.  Fosc. 
The same is mine, and  
Since thou art a kind Familiar, I dare ask  
Thee a question— Art thou a Genius of Love at large  
According to our Gallantizing Mode? or art thou for  
A more peculiar Courtship?  Melu. 
I incite Honourable, and Matrimonial Love.  Fosc. 
A most Heroic Devil indeed;  
But take a care how thou dost otherwise appear to me,  
Lest my sword make bold with one of thy limbs,  
And it prove afterwards to belong to some  
Sorcerer, or Witch.  Melu. 
You need not fear that.  Fosc. 
Prithee avoid me then, I would not willingly be haunted  
By a Matrimonial Genius of all other.  Melu. 
Your desire is granted—  
While only I'll thy heart incite  
To love thy fair deserted Wife,  
For whose sake, I am obliged thy sense to ply,  
Since on thy wrist thou didst a philter tie.  
And so farewell.  [Ex. Melvissa. Fosc. 
Adieu, adieu! had ever man such a Dialogue  
As this?  [He studies. Enter Clarina and Melvissa. Melu. 
Be confident I have performed to purpose.  Clar. 
I warrant you.  Melu. 
Nay more to his greater  
Terror, I withdrew here, and counterfeited myself  
A Spirit.  Clar. 
Most excellent!  Melu. 
And had  
Such pleasant discourse with him.  Clar. 
You have done above my expectation.  Melu. 
He comes on fiercely I warrant thee.  Fosc. 
And yet I do not find my hair stares, or  
A cold sweat on me, enough to dissolve me to a jelly,  
Like some stories I have heard of this kind.  Melu. 
See, he's here, observe a little— in the mean time  
I'll withdraw.  [Ex. Melu. Fosc. 
Whilst I feel such a heat dispersed through every vein  
Of my body, no man, or longing virgin ever felt  
The like in any burning wish, or actual enjoyment—  
Well Foscaris, thou hast got a tickling spirit in thee.  Clar. 
I perceive it takes.  Fosc. 
And yet methinks  
It should not be in the power of Magic to make  
Me affect my cast-off Wife; if it prove otherwise,  
What a confounded Lover am I then— she's here.  [Observes her. Clar. 
Now I'll approach him.  [Walks towards him. Fosc. 
As I am a man, 'tis she I long for,  
The very element of fire is met  
Within me, and my heart rises to my very lips  
At her appearance.  [Gazes on her. Clar. 
The Physic works; now to handle this patient.  [Aside. Fosc. 
Oh thou art bright indeed Clarina;  
Ariadne's Crown of Stars is Copper  
To thy Eyes, and in each look methinks thou  
Stain'st the evenings glory.  Clar. 
Good kind Sir, keep off, 'tis towards bedtime.  Fosc. 
'Tis thither I would go with thee Love, and twine  
More happily than ever! Alas, I did but this  
To love thee ten times better than before;  
As men restrain themselves from food they like  
To make the next meal better.  Clar. 
Keep your ground good Sir Amorous;  
You and I must not come to the close embrace  
So easily; and lest you should be boisterous,  
I'll be gone.  Fosc. 
Stay but a twilights time longer—  Clar. 
'Tis more than I can well afford you.  Enter Andrages. Fosc. 
Nay prithee let me beg it though I kneel.  Clar. 
You deserve some penance; I'll not entreat you  
To be sparing.  [Ex. Clarina▪ Andr. 
Foscaris kneeling! and to his own Wife?  
The world sure turns round, or Plato's year  
Is come about; if this Diamond he late  
Discarded should again be Trump?—  
What Foscaris! pensive?  Fosc. 
Oh I am undone!  And. 
What's the matter?  Fosc. 
Nay, thou'lt laugh me into shame enough  
When thou know'st it.  Andr. 
By no means.  Fosc. 
Why, I am wounded by Cupid the wrong way?  Andr. 
As how?  Fosc. 
I scarce know how to tell thee.  Andr. 
Nay prithee let me know.  Fosc. 
Understand than I am in love  
With my own cast petticoat; if that be not  
A curse to a Scythian Husband, I'll  
Challenge fate to do worse if possible.  Andr. 
Though I found thee on thy knees, I hope  
Thou dost not pray over love again to thy Wife.  Fosc. 
But I do, and at such an intolerable rate,  
That were every sense of mine a several soul,  
She might command 'em all to express it.  Andr. 
Is't possible?—  Fosc. 
And more, look well to thyself,  
I fear thy Wife's an enchantress.  Andr. 
Ha, ha, ha—  Fosc. 
If thou dost not see her flying steeple high,  
And thyself atop on her shortly, I'll hang  
As high for't.  Andr. 
But you thought there was no such thing  
As Charm or Magic in Love, and that our  
Scythian Wives would have still continued such  
Tame things, as like bobbed Eyesses, they might  
Have been turned off; and took to hand at pleasure.  Fosc. 
I have proved the Experiment dearly:  
Take care and mock not, lest thou art beheld  
Converted to a Cat, and cry Mew  
To keep her company.  Andr. 
Is this the man  
That could defy Cupid and all his Arts?  
Nay shoot your Darts contrary to his, at  
A minute's warning— was it not so?  Fosc. 
I thought I could, till more than mortal powers  
Conspired against me.  Andr. 
And for a Wife, 'twas  
Such a potion, must have no more to do  
With your palate.  Fosc. 
The very name of her  
Inflames me like fire.  Andr. 
A little more to cool you  
And I have done; come I'll put you in mind,  
Of a Julip of your own composition;  [Sings. 
What though her Eyes are black,  
And kisses with a knack, etc.  Fosc. 
No more, no more, though I deserve to be  
Bitten with a satire could sting worse than  
Scorpions.  Andr. 
Well; I have done.  Fosc. 
Let's shake hands then,  
And go thus postured to the Frantic Society here,  
Amongst which I'll die,  
If e'er there were two such Fanatic precedents  
Of Husbands as ourselves: Oh 'twould make such a  
Novelty of distempers!  Andr. 
And there endure a little of the twig,  
Shall we?  Fosc. 
By any means;  
Thou for observing thy Wife with such a  
Fond affection, as I beyond dotage  
Long for mine again.  Andr. 
Good Foscaris,  
Enough of this extravagancy: In the mean time  
I have so far the better of the malady,  
That I have no fear of thy relapse,  
And for a cure, let me advise one more gentle;  
Let's drink some Wine, and give it spirit  
In Clarina's health.  Fosc. 
Oh that I could taste her lips once more—  
And mark me friend, 'tis odds as I am a Gentleman,  
But in spite of all prevention I shall  
Hang or drown myself for love, ere the next Moon.  Andr. 
Come I'll take care of thee.  [Exeunt. Enter Tysamnes, Parisatis, Bassanes, Clarina, Melvissa, Toxaris, Alvanes, and Araxis, etc. Tysam. 
We understand Bassanes, that the Embassadresses  
From the Queen Mandana are arrived.  Bass. 
They are, Sir.  Tysam. 
Attend them to our presence.  [Ex. Bassanes. 
An Embassy few Courts have seen before,  
Where Women bear their Prince's Errands,  
And rule supremely even our Sex.  
What think you Ladies, were your case alike  
With us?  Clar. 
For mine I should not wish it, Sir,  
'Twere too injurious to the right of men.  Melu. 
You are a little of the kindest Lady—  
For my part, Sir, were I born under the like  
Favourable Aspect of Venus, 'tis odds but I  
Should wear a Bow and Quiver, to maintain  
The privilege— you'll pardon, Sir, my freedom.  Tysam. 
A witty sprightly Lady— and yet I dare believe  
There's none of all you Gentlemen, that has  
A Wife predominant, who does not own  
Submission to the custom here.—  Tax. 
This touches home.  Tysam. 
I am confirmed, that were the case my consorts here,  
(So dear unto my soul) she would not claim  
Herself exempted.  Alu. 
That parenthesis was oddly placed.  [Aside. Par. 
You know I am all obedience, Sir,  
And hope you'll now receive such offers, from  
This our neighbour-Queen, as will not give your thoughts  
The least disturbance; nor would I have a War  
Wherein my Sex should fight, were I made a party  
In the cause, or injury.  Tysam. 
Thou art all Excellence.  Enter Bassanes with Renone, and Cydane the Embassadresses. 
Now Ladies, your Queen's pleasure.  Renone. 
Who does by us, most Royal Sir, congratulate  
Your great accession to this Throne, and more, your joys  
In this your fair and virtuous Queen, who scarce  
Has equal in her Sex: to which (if possible)  
Her wishes do yet add more happiness.  Tysam. 
This is but usual form of State: proceed.  Cyd. 
'Tis what our Queen expects you'll welcome,  
Who waves dispute of Territories,  
The usual great concerns of Thrones;  
And has but one demand instead of all,  
To make your Greatness: whence may spring  
A lasting league betwixt her mighty Crown  
And yours.  Tysam. 
Speak it then!  Par. 
I hope 'twill find reception.  Cyd. 
Then know, our Mighty Mistress does demand  
By us an Abrogation of that most  
Rigid usage here, from which the Husbands will  
Is too much Lord of love.  Tysam. 
Sure, you mistake your Embassy?  Ren. 
Nor can she reign without a blush must stain  
Her glories, should she not (if denied)  
Compel by arms her Sexes fair relief.  Clar. 
Nobly urged.  Melu. 
Methinks I could fight in this Cause myself.  Arax. 
The King is moved.  [Aside. Alu. 
Observe the Queen.  Tysam. 
Your Queen's too bold with us in this demand;  
But she's a Woman.  Cyd. 
And soon you'll find, she'll slight  
All dangers in this Cause: nor is the world  
Unknowing, that her arms (though guided  
By the conduct of our Sex) has oft gave  
Wars rough Laws to men.  Par. 
Let me then intercede, my Royal Husband,  
I would not have a quarrel in this Cause,  
(Although I doubt not from your love security)  
The world I know would say you but defend  
A most unkind prerogative; and since 'tis thus,  
Bestow it as a bounty on the Sex for my sake.  Tysam. 
Can this proceed from Parisatis?  Par. 
As truly as I wish your peace and love.  Tysam. 
Thou dost mistake in both—  Par. 
Besides, what honour were't in such a Cause  
To be a Conqueror? or on your Warlike Trophy to  
Inscribe, you did subdue the force of Women,  
Led by a neighbour Queen, whose bravery  
Of soul, deserves esteem and wonder—  
I know you'll condescend.  Tysam. 
Away, thou dost abuse thy Love and me.  Par. 
Is't possible?  Tysam. 
Or else endeavour'st by compliance with  
This Embassy, to betray the honour of  
This Crown, and People; take which you like—  
And know thou hast forfeited thy Being  
In my soul.  Par. 
Heaven defend.  Tysam. 
And tell your Queen I'll reign  [To the Embassadresses. 
A King of men in spite of all her power  
Of Spinsters: whose honour by this grant would be  
The mock of Women. Nor do I doubt their hearts  
And swords will join with mine to assert this  
Nations right.  Tox. 
The King is much incensed.  [Aside. Alu. 
I hope 'twill not reflect upon the Queen.  Tysam. 
And by my Act, to assure the world how much  
I'll own my Subjects privilege, behold my Queen.  Cyd. 
A Lady full of Grace and Virtue—  Par. 
Oh my fears!  Tysam. 
Who with no more concern I'll cast away,  
Then Indians do a Pearl, that ne'er did know  
Its value; and from this hour no more my Wife.  Par. 
Must it be so?  Bass. 
Consider Sir, this Act  
May prove a rash one—  Tysam. 
My resolution's fixed— nor do I fear  
What Law can act, though hence I reign not jointly  
With this Queen, while by the power I possess,  
I can create a right above it.  Par. 
Nor shall I plead a word  
Against your Will, though it severely fall  
Upon my Love; or mention what should be  
Your gratitude to me, that gave you both  
Myself and Crown, and yet will give my life,  
If your concern require it—  
You'll give me time convenient to withdraw.  Tysam. 
Thou shalt to any place retire within  
My Crowns Dominion, where thou shalt live  
In state and greatness of a Queen—  
And so farewell.  Par. 
Adieu, my dearest.  Alu. 
This action of the King was unexpected.  [Aside. Arax. 
Such as must breed some strange distemper here.  Tox. 
I wish our Almanacs were all burnt else.  Tysam. 
To morrow you shall have our Letters to your Queen.  Renone. 
And as becomes her she'll resent this Act.  Tysaem. 
Bassanes—  [Ex. Tysamnes and Bassanes. Cydan. 
Madam, you have our pity.  [Ex. Embassadresses. Clar. 
The Queen deserves a sorrow  
From all Hearts.  Melu. 
She has deeply mine.  Par. 
Though life has many ways to lose its comforts,  
Few hinder the distressed means of death:  
And let my sad example teach my Sex,  
That when they love embark with men, 'tis like  
A vessel, that with guilded streamers sails  
On dangerous Seas, and in each calm must think  
This smooth-faced Ocean may their Barks soon sink.  Exeunt.  

ACT III. SCENE I.  Enter Parisatis in a Mourning Veil led by Bassanes. Bass. 
I Want no sense of your afflictions, Madam.  Par. 
'Tis like your worth.  Bass. 
And dare express it more  
Than entertaining of your griefs by naked Accents,  
That were too low and common for Bassanes heart;  
Each vulgar ear that hears from rumours breath,  
Will do as much, and glory in the hope  
Of making stubborn Heaven bend to hear  
Your sufferings.  Par. 
You are a Prince allied unto my Crown,  
Nor can I doubt, but every vein of yours  
Has many streams of honour—  Bass. 
Know, Madam,  
Since you are pleased to call me worthy of  
Your great Alliance; I want no heart to tell  
The King, your Husband (though sitting on the Throne)  
His ingratitude.  Par. 
I wish I had been truly charged with any crime  
That might have given his Act in my desertion,  
Some vizard to outface the world: I dare believe  
The Law that first here gave this liberty to man,  
Did tacitly imply the Husband should  
Not be a lawless Tyrant to the Wife.  Bass. 
The injustice is too palpable; and  
Fitter 'twere this Law had no more being,  
Or the Sex of women against Natures  
Made supreme, then thus to be imbittered  
'Gainst your virtue,  
Though smoothed and guilded over with pretexts,  
He calls State Policy, and Marriage Interest,  
But simply Artifice to bring another  
To his Throne and Bed.  Par. 
I fear 'tis too much a truth.  Bass. 
Statyra is no doubt designed to shine  
In this Meridian, by your fair remove:  
But think not, Madam, that your Eclipse of  
Glory can pass without your Subjects due  
Remorse, and vindication: he is a King here  
But as you made him so, in giving him  
Yourself a Queen; and from your love has only  
Title to your Subjects hearts.  Par. 
And had the world  
Been mine in Kingdoms, with as many Hearts,  
My affection had disposed 'em all to him.  Bass. 
You have given proof above parallel.  Par. 
But this ingratitude does combat with my soul!  Bass. 
Permit, I serve your Royal Virtue.  Par. 
I know thou dar'st revenge my wrong, and hast  
An interest in thy blood and merits, that  
Can guide this Nations Arms, and raise a stream  
Of vulgar force, enough to sink Tysamnes  
Even to the depth of ruin, though fortified with  
All the power he now enjoys.  Bass. 
I will employ my utmost in your service.  Par. 
I have I see a Subject great, brave, and faithful;  
In spite of all adversity— Bassanes  
Thou wilt obey me strictly?  Bass. 
Be danger what it will;  
Nor need you question, but the arm I shall apply  
Is strong enough to right, or else revenge  
Your injuries: nor want I means prepared  
Even at this minute, that shall soon perform  
The least breath of your commands.  Par. 
Then know, I do enjoin you all obedience  
To the King—  Bass. 
How, Madam?  Par. 
I mean Tysamnes,  
Who has thrown me from his heart, and that far  
More strict, if possible, then had he met  
My Love with equal constancy— I would  
Not live and underact the part of virtue.  Bass. 
You oblige me now to be your enemy—  
Who knows how soon you may be taken from  
The world by him, that thus has cast you from  
His bosom?  Par. 
'Tis not inglorious if I die,  
Or split on any rock,  
This storm shall throw me on,  
If Innocence be my harbour.  Bass. 
The Worm that's trod on, bows in some displeasure  
When it's grieved; what should then do your Greatness?  Par. 
But virtue's yet more gentle, whose value's  
Most refined by suffering— I know  
You will obey me.  Bass. 
Since 'tis your pleasure.  Par. 
And be sure give out 'twas Act of State,  
Or Crime in me, or any thing thou canst devise  
Most plausible, to assure the people  
To Tysamnes. And more, that 'tis my strict  Enter Eumenes and Draxanes. Eum. 
The Queen, Sir, is withdrawn.  Tysam. 
How's that?  Drax. 
Removed Sir, none knows whither.  Tysam. 
I fear she has taken some precipitate resolve.  Bass. 
The joys this news will bring,  
Must soon cause her appearance,  
Where e'er she is retired.  Tysam. 
Make strict and speedy search,  
He wants no wealth brings happy tidings first.  Eum. Drax. 
We'll use all diligence.  [Ex. Eum. Drax. Tysam. 
Bring forth Statyra.  Bass. 
I'll wait her to you, Sir.  [Ex. Bassanes. Tysam. 
'Tis fit she know  
How much I have offended for her sake.  Enter Bassanes and Statyra. 
Statyra, I must beg a pardon of thy virtue.  Stat. 
Sir, you have proved I can forgive.  Tysam. 
Thy goodness I have injured next my Queens,  
And I am making of my peace with Heaven  
And her.  Stat. 
'Tis worthy of your Soul— But you'll consider, Sir—  Tysam. 
I do, that 'twas my sin of love to thee  
Which did induce this Act, to whom I first  
Disposed my heart: and would to Heaven I had  
Two souls, that I might give one to thy virtue,  
And make thee twin in my affection with my Queen;  
Excepting whom, the world and womankind  
Are but trifles to my heart.  Stat. 
Mine is as truly yours;  
And let this blush excuse my boldness,  
If I claim you now my own.  Tysam. 
How's this Statyra?  Stat. 
You are made free by Law,  
(If such a one this Country owns) and can  
That less than plead for my enjoyment now,  
So much your Lover?  Bass. 
I did not look for this.  [Aside. Tysam. 
Tempt me not fair Statyra, lest I fall  
Below the sin of the Apostate Angels;  
And call thy love my second crime.  Stat. 
I did but mention mine to prove your constancy.  
May you for ever live most happy in  
Your Queen; and for your sake I'll beg of Heaven  
That she may late be taken thither.  Tysam. 
Thou art a pattern of perfection—  Stat. 
And since you now have made me free, I'll crave  
Your leave to respite my return, till I  
Congratulate your happy meeting with  
Your Queen, and so to Persia, where I'll  
Spread your joys.  Bass. 
This centres with my wish.  [Aside. Tysam. 
Each syllable of thine does give my soul new wonder.  
Since not alone, thou canst my Crime forgive,  
But yield I may another's Lover live.  Ex. Tysamnes leading Statyra, Bassanes. Enter Melvissa with two Courtiers. Melu. 
You are pleased to like my entertainment  
Gentlemen; and I am apt enough to be  
Proud of your good opinion.  1 Court. 
You are all diversion, Madam, our Court  
Has not such another Lady.  2 Court. 
I hope you'll  
Give me leave to spend some hours with your converse.  Melu. 
You may be welcome as I please  
Jointly, and severally.  Both. 
We understand you, Madam.  Melu. 
But methinks you are a little dull (though  
Courtly bred) since you speak praises of my Wit,  
But have little to say for my Beauty.  1 Court. 
Oh Madam! that's granted, the Court has no such  
Star, bating the Queen.  2 Court. 
Besides, your Ladyship  
Cannot so far mistake our inclinations,  
As to suppose we pay adorations  
To the ugly, though ne'er so witty;  
They are only fit to eat with, provided  
They keep good Tables.  Melu. 
Now I perceive you.  1 Court. 
But for you, Madam, (so perfectly taking)  
The day is too short to admire you, and  
The night to enjoy you.  Melu. 
You aim well, and 'tis odds  
But I guess the mark you'd hit— pray sit a while;  
I can afford you some minutes—  [They sit by her. 2 Court. 
There's no time  
Long enough, we are not in haste.—  1 Court. 
'Tis fit we wait your leisure.  Enter Andrages. Melu. 
I keep my lodgings free enough for entertainment,  
And live without the fear of Prying Watchers, or the  
Jealous Husband's eye.  Andr. 
Oh my torment! she dares me to be jealous too.  [Aside. 2 Court. 
I suppose, Madam, you allow the Gentleman  
His times of hawking and hunting, in order  
To your more private Recreations.  1 Court. 
Let me be so happy I beseech you,  
As to have notice when he is absent.  2 Court. 
Or I, Madam, I should endeavour to serve you.  Andr. 
I'll try whether I have so much courage  
Left, as to mark these things (made up of perfumes  
And Periwigs) in the forehead with a  [Draws his Sword. 
Jealous token of mine, ere I am convicted  
I wear a horn there myself— now Gentlemen—  1 Court. 
Your Husband, Madam— we are in haste—  Melu. 
You need not make so much.  2 Court. 
Your Humble Servant, Sir.—  1 Court. 
The King expects me, Madam.  Melu. 
You shall not part with any apprehension  
Hence— how now Sir Hot Spur? I must curb you  
I faith, if you offer to take such  
Careers as these.  Andr. 
You may command me, Madam— a Lark is not  
So dared as I am by this Hobby of mine.  [Aside. Melu. 
Put up your Tool, and remove; your appearance  
Was more unseasonable than I looked for.  Andr. 
Each word she speaks is a Charm; I have not  
So much valour in me as to oppose her tongue,  
What e'er I have done, or dare do otherwise.  [Ex. Andrages. Melu. 
You may now withdraw,  
Gentlemen, the King expects you.  Both. 
Your Servant Lady.  Melu. 
There is no need of the expression;  
I did but act a little of the most to show my prerogative;  
I hope you'll say there's one Woman amongst us  
Has wit enough to rule her Husband  
In spite of Law.  Both. 
We'll witness it to wonder, Madam.  [Exeunt. Enter Clarina hastily. Clar. 
Oh Madam! your experiment has done  
Wonders; my Husband—  Melu. 
Loves thee now to purpose.—  Clar. 
Beyond expression.  Melu. 
My mother proved  
Such a like Artifice on my father,  
For security's sake, yet loved him dearly.  Clar. 
You have given good proof in your own,  
And for mine, I believe he feels love  
In every fiber of his heart; kneels to  
Adore me, compares me to Stars, and  
Vows that I am more fair than ever.  
Oh what a kissing time shall I have on't, If he and I meet in embrace again?  Melu. 
Tantalise him well first.  Clar. 
But to say truth,  
I long myself, and would willingly be— you guess—  Enter Foscaris. Melu. 
He comes, withdraw a while—  [Ex. Clarina. Fosc. 
Oh Madam! you  
Have given me a present has had such  
Powerful operation on me.  Melu. 
By this time  
You well understand the meaning on't  
I assure myself.  Fosc. 
'Tis love Madam, in extremity.  Melu. 
Did I not tell you so?  Fosc. 
I thought I had hit your sense  
To a hair indeed, while I conceived you  
As Gentlemen should a Lady in the like case.  Meiv. 
It means as good a thing I can assure you.  Fosc. 
But I am doting on my Wife again,  
And must (in spite of flesh and blood) woo her  
‛ Twice over.  Melu. 
There 'tis— Alas good Sir, who could  
Have thought it in a man of your temper?  Fosc. 
That same bewitching Bracelet you gave me,  
Which I am fain to kiss thus reverently  
Most minutes of the day, nay, sometimes pray to't;  
I can't blame your Husband  
For being such a strict Amourist; he  
Has had his philter I suppose.  Melu. 
I never found it needful; if I had,  
Perhaps I should have endeavoured much  
To preserve his love.  Fosc. 
There's not a hair  
On thy head, but I dare say can do more  
Than all the Charms of Medea.  Melu. 
Excuse me, Sir.  Fosc. 
I should be loath to prove you guilty of  
Magic, though 'tis certain.  Melu. 
Proceed, good Sir,  
And accuse me, because Heaven has brought  
Your affection back again to your Lady;  
'Tis odds but I shall answer it.  Fosc. 
Well, since 'tis thus,  
I forgive thee; and as you are a Woman,  
Speak a good word for me.  Enter Clarina. Melu. 
That I assure you,  
And perhaps have taken more care for you  
Then you can imagine— here she comes,  
Apply yourself first.  [Ex. Melvissa. Fosc. 
And are we met thus?  Clar. 
If not happily, you may remove me  
With the least breath of yours.  Fosc. 
Nay, prithee stay,  
I love strangely to look on thee—  
O that Eye of thine!—  Clar. 
And this Cheek, this Lip, (some think not ill)  
So often tasted by you, with other amorous  
Passages of ours: does this remembrance please you?  Fosc. 
To miracle!—  Clar. 
And do you truly repent  
My desertion, as you protested to me you did?  Fosc. 
From the very bottom of my belly, sweetest.  Clar. 
Had you said your heart, perhaps I had  
Took your word, and consented to have met  
Your desires on honourable terms.  Fosc. 
This may be a device to bring my passion  
To some further mockery: (these she Serpents  
Want no wiles) I'll try whether or no  
I can dissemble mine, though against the  
Power of Magic.  Clar. 
You dare trust my Love?  Fosc. 
I could find in my heart—  Clar. 
You seemed of late  
To adore me so strangely, that I am obliged  
To take pity of you now for fear of your wits.  Fosc. 
'Tis certain she mocks me—  [Aside. 
I confess I felt a kind flame, or so;  
But I did not intend to keep a perpetual  
Aetna in my bosom, or such a Fever  
Of Love, that will only admit of one Julip.  Clar. 
Melvissa's Arts do fail I fear.  Fosc. 
Besides, you Women are such nice things  
To handle, and as the world runs now,  
Have such superlative devices.—  Clar. 
I can forgive you truly; by this  [Points to his Picture by her side.] 
Image which ne'er can hang too near my heart.  Fosc. 
My Picture still there? better and better;  [Aside. 
As sure as I live she's charmed too. Melvissa  
I remember told me, that she had done  
Something extraordinary for me; I may  
Dissemble safely, and if need were, make her  
Long as much for me now; what a rare turn  
Of Love would that be?  Clar. 
You than continue cruel still?  Fosc. 
Alas my pretty fondling, I know thou  
Were't ever kind and tender; but to say truth  
I did but counterfeit my passion, a little  
To comply with thine, and gave out I had  
Received I know not what charms of Venus,  
Supposing thou hadst more wit then to believe  
Such wonders.  Clar. 
Is't possible?  Fosc. 
Alas! what  
Couldst thou expect from a man of my complexion?  Clar. 
I'll try my own Art a little then—  [Aside. 
Oh my Foscaris!— behold I die to show  
Thee thy ingratitude  [She makes as if she swooned Enter Melvissa. Fosc. 
Help, help, help, my dearest thing of life,  
I love thee most outrageously.  Clar. 
Are you in earnest?  Fosc. 
Alas! I could even eat thee to express it.  Clar. 
May I confide?  Fosc. 
Besides, I'll tell thee more;  
I am charmed to that purpose—  
Behold this Bracelet, there's ten thousand  
Spirits of Cupid in it.  Clar. 
May I be certain? ha, ha, ha—  Fosc. 
I'll swear it by a thousand Stars.  Clar. 
Ha, ha, ha—  Fosc. 
By this good light she jeers me.  Melu. 
And acts her part unto my wish.  Clar. 
Some other time you and I will dispute terms.  [Ex. Clar. Fosc. 
Oh my folly!  Melu. 
If you want an Advocate,  
Yet command me; in the mean time, I hope  
You'll make much of your favour, and so adieu.  [Ex. Melu. Enter Andrages. Fosc. 
If I am not put in a Ballad, or Lampooned  
By some Scurrilous Poet before to morrow  
This time, there is no mischief in being a  
Subject of ridiculous wonder.  Andr. 
What's the matter?  Fosc. 
Ask me no questions.—  Andr. 
But I could tell thee  
Such a story of my Rencounters.  Fosc. 
But pronounce not the name of Wife.  Andr. 
I'll tell thee news then; 'tis said we shall have  
Wars with our Amazon neighbours.  Fosc. 
Let it come,  
I have quarrel enough to the whole Sex  
For the sake of one.  Andr. 
But if they have many  
Such Pentheselea's amongst 'em as my Wife,  
We are beaten into corners.  Fosc. 
I am for any thing that's desperate,  
And if I do not cut as many of 'em  
Off at the waste, to be revenged of this  
Evil Genius of mine, let me die  
By their Bodkins.  [Exeunt. Enter Tysamnes, Alvanes, Araxis, Draxanes, Eumenes, and others. Tysam. 
Call in the Embassadresses.  [Ex. Eum. Drax. Enter Bassanes with Renone and Cydane. 
Here are our Letters to your  
Queen.— We hear her Army  
Is advanced near upon our Confines.  Renon. 
But first by us denounces War;  
Who scorns to gain a foot of earth, but what  
Her Sword shall fairly win.  Tysam. 
We'll soon prepare to meet her.  Cydan. 
And thus we take our leaves.  [King whispers Alu. & Arax. Bassanes to the Embassadresses aside.] 
I hope your Queen, whose most Illustrious  
Person I admire, will grant me pardon,  [Aside. 
If in my Country's Cause I serve a Soldier.  Renon. 
She honours worth in all, amongst whom Your virtues have no small effects, Acknowledged by the world A worthy Captain.  Bass. 
Your Servant Ladies.  [Ex. Embassadresses. Enter Fosearis and Andrages. Tysam. 
You shall have all Commands become your valours;  
I know as men, you stand obliged to serve this Cause.  Fosc. 
To a man, Sir.  Andr. 
And I (excepting one Woman)  
Dare act as much against the Sex: but she  
I must confess, Sir, has the better on me  
In all Encounters.  Tysam. 
Your Wife I guess;  
I am glad to hear I have a Subject who  
Is so kind a Husband—  
No news yet of our Queen?  Bass. 
Not any, as the best of my Intelligence can learn.  Tysam. 
My soul is on the torture.  Enter Toxaris. Tox. 
I hope Sir, I have brought you happy tidings in this Letter.  Tysam. 
'Tis Parisatis hand.  Tox. 
'Twas given me  
From an unknown person, who would not stay  
To satisfy my further Queries.  Tysam. reads. 
Let this assure you from Parisatis,  
That she is removed from this Life, before  
It meets your hand: The means I have  
Resolved on for my end, I will not give you the  
Grief to hear, or charge you guilty of my death,  
And to confirm you, this preoedes my last being;  
I have sent you this Jewel, you must witness  
I vowed should be kept to the death of Parisatis.  
Oh Heavens! my Parisatis dead! read  
Here Bassanes.  [Bassanes reads. Bass. 
My tears are slow, but credit me,  
The death of Armies, and the groans of War  
When made from gasping Friends, just drowning  
Of their souls in streams of blood, ne'er shook  
My heart like this.  Tysam. 
Thy griefs are truly mine.  Bass. 
But hope that providence, whose paths are  
Labyrinths, may yet—  Enter Statyra. Tysam. 
She's dead, she's dead, too certain—  Stat. 
The King's disturbed.  Tysam. 
Beyond expression; Parisatis my Queen—  Stat. 
I hoped was now returned to your embrace.  Tysam. 
The other world contains her virtues, she's dead.  Stat. 
My eyes can ne'er want streams to pour  
With yours for such a loss.  Tysam. 
Mine are too guilty to partake  
With thine; and had I more than Niobe  
ere shed to drown my soul in; or turned  
To Marble at this news like her, 'twere but  
Too gentle to express my crime or grief.  Stat. 
This passion's glorious.  Tysam. 
What death can I devise, or torments  
Give my soul enough, that have at once  
To answer breach of faith to thee and death of her?  Stat. 
Your stain is deep in both, though far more vile  
As you are a Prince who did unworthily  
Possess the love and glories  
Of so excellent a Queen; that no pretence  
Of Power, or Law, can expiate—  
But since by Heaven's decree she's thus removed  
To Stars, for which did I but know her Urn,  
I'd visit it, and pay my tears as an  
Oblation to her memory—  
Yet now 'tis fit you live for my sake  Tysam. 
Thou hast some justice to my life,  
But wilt not now oblige it?  Stat. 
I do, and  
Claim it as the greatest blessing of my own.  Tysam. 
There's nothing left me, but in thee, that can  
Invite a minute's breath.  Stat. 
You had my first love Sir,  
So far you have an interest still.  Tysam. 
And for thy sake I will admit to live;  
Nay more, I'll talk to thee of Love, and with  
What penitence thou shalt require, acknowledge  
My past vows to thee, besides the guilt of my  
Ingratitude unto my Parisatis.  Stat. 
Heaven must absolve your crime to both,  
For this your noble sorrow.  Tysam. 
Thy words are comforts to my soul;  
But this is such an hour the Stars must mourn,  
Or find new trepidations in their orbs  
To fright the earth with some calamity—  
Besides an Enemy does threaten now to invade  
Our Kingdom— Bassanes, you shall command  
As General.  Bass. 
With my best duty Sir, and 'twas  
Your Queen's command I should continue still your  
Faithful Subject.  Tysam. 
I have no other title here to reign but from her love,—  
Admit I leave thee, fair Statyra, in some place  
Of best security.  Stat. 
I am obliged to be companion in your dangers.  Tysam. 
That were an endless peril, though thy virtue  
Be above what fate can injure.  Stat. 
My heart were else not worth the owning yours.  Tox. 
A brave and gracious Lady.  Alu. 
The King 'tis sure affects her.  [Aside. Tysam. 
I feel a cloud upon my soul, I know not when  
Or how 'twill vanish—  
Come Statyra, my Love and thine must wait  
The calmer hours of time and kinder fate.  Ex. Omnes.  

ACT IV. SCENE I.  Enter Mandana, Daranthe, Cydane, Renone, and other Women. Mand. 
THE King may soon repent he gave our Treaty  
Such neglect.  Cyd. 
We doubt it not, most royal Madam—  Mand. 
And for his Queen, whose fair desertion  
Has the first place in our quarrel, would she  
Were now alive, that we might with our arms  
Impose her on his Love.  Daran. 
'Twere to be wished.  Mand. 
The proof we have now given by taking  
This strong City of Daxata on the River  
Volga, must make 'em know, their force  
Must yield unto our Sex's power,  
We lead— what thinks our chief  
Commandress?  Daran. 
I judge that victory will soon  
Make offerings at your feet.  Mand. 
This Pass we have  
Secured must prove considerable, since it  
Impedes all their recruits that way.  Daran. 
And what's more,  
Hinders provision might else arrive  
Unto their Camp: nor can they forage here  
Much longer, environed on each side with  
Mountains, where by your mighty conduct  
All the passages stand seized by us.  Mand. 
I think  
They dare not hope to force their passage.  Daran. 
Our womens' hearts must fail 'em strangely then,  
And make your greatness wear a blush,  
To see them this day prove degenerate,  
Who from your conduct glory many Victories.  Mand. 
Spoke like the blood of Amazons.  Renon. 
Nor do we doubt the issue of this day  
Will make your Prowess far more famed  
Then brave Thalestris (stories tell) was from  
Great Alexander, (the Prince of Captains)  
Held in highest admiration.  Mand. 
I see You are all resolved, as does become  
This Cause I fight, by which we'll force even Nature  
To confess she was a partial Mother  
To our Sex, when she made man  
First heir of Glory.  Daran. 
Royal Madam—  Mand. 
Enough, they serve  
Our drudgeries, our pleasures, or embraces,  
To create us Soldiers, that scorn their uses  
But for our heroic ends.  Daran. 
Did but the Women  
Of this world besides hear this, they'd be ashamed,  
To think they had not broke the yoke of men,  
And such a fair and great Protectress in yourself.  Mand. 
An entertainment for our Greatness there,  
That this haughty Prince, Tysamnes, (who dares  
Make War against our Sex) may know that we  
In this strong City, forced from his bold powers,  
Keep our triumphant joys.  Ren. 
Some Prisoners of War desire to present  
Your Majesty with a Dance, after the  
Manner of their Country.  Man. 
We admit them.  Music and a Dance. Enter Messenger. Mess. 
A Moorish Lady desires admittance  
To your presence.  Man. 
She has our leave.  Enter Parisatis disguised like a Moor. Man. 
Your business Lady.  Par. 
'Tis such, most Royal Madam, must beg  
A pardon for my craving this access,  
Who have journeyed far, to see the glory  
Of your Arms and Person, famed above all  
The ancient Amazons so much renowned.  Mand. 
The ambition of this visit we can pardon;  
And glad we are our Actions have  
Obliged the world and fame.  Par. 
But more your Sex in this  
Fair Cause your arms embrace.  Mand. 
This language suits  
Our greatness—  Par. 
And though our swarthy clime  
Cannot boast Nature's Beauties in Rose  
And Lily cheeks; that gives us there as Daughters  
Of the night; or that the kisses of the Sun  
Were so unkindly spent, as it alone  
Did darken us, and guild the world besides;  
Yet we have there bright souls of honour.  Mand. 
I find thou hast, above what I in this  
Short view can read— thy Name?  Par. 
Zeriffa, Madam—  Mand. 
Thy extraction  
I need not ask, I know it must be great  
That represents thyself so full of noble grace  
Unto our presence.  Par. 
Your great esteem is  
My ambition to improve, though with the  
Greatest hazard of my life.  Mand. 
And dost thou then love Arms?—  Par. 
So far, most Royal Madam, as I would  
Be glad to die, though not so much as mentioned  
In the lowest place, among the Annals  
Of your fair Achievements.  Mand. 
I even dare  
Already boast I have a Soldier in thee,  
Worthy to lead with us, and these, whose veins  
Are warmed with blood of Amazons, inciting  
Deeds, which but reported to the softer  
Of our Sex, give tremblings to their hearts.  Par. 
I should be loath to lose my share in honour,  
Or miss the end I have designed my life;  
Yet must avow I never yet have fought.  Mand. 
Though thy Complexion above all thy Sex,  
Nature has fitted most to deeds of War,  
In which the scars, and wounds of arms, cannot  
Dig furrows in the fair brow of Beauty,  
So dear unto the vainer of thy kind.  
Yet I must now require, whether no other  
Motive has produced this inclination?  Par. 
I'll soon confess I have not lived so much  
Obliged by man, as that I may not justly  
Be concerned in your great cause and quarrel  
To make an offering of my life.  Mand. 
Thou hast won my confidence.  Par. 
The command I ask from your great Majesty,  
Shall be but mean, such as your prudence best  
Will judge becomes a strangers trust.  Mand. 
And thou shalt have it, worthy Moor.  Par. 
But crave it may be hazardous and daring:  
Heaven knows how willing  
I am to be rid of life.  [Aside. Mand. 
Thou shalt have fit employment for thy valour—  
And take care my valiant Women, that this  
Moor, who promises such wonders of her Faith  
And Virtue, does not in noble emulation  
Match your Prowess.  Daran. 
The Queen's soon taken with this stranger.  Cydan. 
She seems to promise much.  Mand. 
A suit of our best Arms and Quiver  
For this Moor—  
Daranthe, and you Ladies,  
See her according to our warlike mode  
Invested; nor do I doubt thou'lt use 'em  
Nobly.  Enter one with Arms and Quiver. [They put 'em on. Par. 
I should be else not worthy of that Soul  
I would be thought to bear.  Enter Messenger. Mess. 
The Enemy prepares for  
Battle, Mighty Queen.  Mand. 
We will prevent 'em giving the onset first—  
Mean while, let's hear a Martial Ode,  
The Harmony our womens' ears delight;  
While others of their Sex warble amorous  
Notes to entertain their Lovers.  The Queen Mandana leads her Amazon Women in state round the Stage, making several pauses while the Ode is Singing; at the end of which they go off. The Amazons are supposed to sing the Martial Ode. 

To Arms, to Arms, the Warlike fare,  
As our Heroic Charms,  
With Martial Echoes fill the Air,  
Inviting unto Arms.  
Our Women with their Bows and Darts,  
Dare Man's rough powers assail,  
And Conquer such unshaken Hearts  
To give Love laws as we Prevail.   

Advance, advance, lest fortunes hacte  
Our Onsets should delay,  
Obliging time that flies so fast,  
To curb his Steeds this day;  
And hand in hand with mighty fame,  
That wraps in Clouds her head,  
Her glorious daughters us proclaim,  
And first our stately Triumphs lead.   

We challenge Diana and her Host  
Of Nymph - like Archers all,  
Who from their Quivers glory boast,  
Or proud Actaeon's fall;  
If ever their bright eyes beheld,  
A Chorus like to ours;  
Or saw themselves so far excelled  
By womens' more Heroic powers.   [Exeunt. Enter Bassanes, Foscaris, Andrages, Eumenes and Draxanes. Bass. 
Be courageous Gentlemen, the straight we are in,  
I doubt not but my conduct with the Kings  
Will find some brave expedient to relieve.  Omn. 
We'll all die at your command.  Bass. 
And for the Soldier's wants, our valours soon  
Shall feed, ere their pined bellies mutiny  
For bread; my presence is required to see  
What order keeps our other wing.  [Ex. Bassanes. Fosc. 
Well Lads, we must fight it out to purpose,  
I find there's no getting else a crumb of sustenance.  Andr. 
Or be made such drudges to these Amazonia  
Furies, their Camp has not the like.  Drax. 
In our late skirmish methoughts they fought  
Like Dragons, and handled their Bows with more  
Dexterity than Parthians.  Andr. 
There's at least  
A Legion of Women, or more Evil Spirits  
In any one of them.  Eum. 
And should we fall  
Into their hands, what might they expect  
After that rate?  Drax. 
As I am a Soldier,  
I think a Brigade of men would scarce do  
The business of one Woman of this Generation,  
If they have the same vivacity for Venus,  
As for Mars.  Fosc. 
This morning I could have been contented  
To have broke my fast with one of the fair  
Sentinels next me; 'twas such a pretty  
Hard-hearted Rogue.  Drax. 
And if I starve for want  
Of Bread and Women, let me perish unpityed.  Eum. 
Nay, we must venture on their bodies some way  
Or other; there's not a passage left us else  
So wide as man enters the world.  Drax. 
'Tis said they hold  
Intelligence with our Scythian  
Women: and have made such furious resolves  
If we fall into their hands.  Andr. 
And for us Husbands—  
If they Conquer—  Fosc. 
Eunuched to a Man, Gentlemen—  
I look to carry my quill in my hat,  
To show I am wholly castrated; For the rest of our Troops, perhaps they'll give 'em  
Leave to spin in Boots, or serve their other occasions.  Enter Tysamnes with Statyra, Bassanes, Alvanes, Toxaris and Araxis. Eum. 
Here comes the King; we now shall be for  
Action speedily.  Andr. 
His looks seem troubled.  Tysam. 
Our City taken on the Volga, and  
Our Provisions, the Sinews of our Army's strength  
Cut off before our eyes; nay more, enclosed  
By female powers— Can you be men and live  
To this contempt?  Bass. 
Spare your passion Sir.  Tysam. 
I cannot, while I see I govern Soldiers  
Scarce deserve the name of men, more fit,  
By Heaven, to be converted to some other shape,  
Or serve as Chamber Eunuchs to this female kind  
Our Arms oppose.  Bass. 
This stratagem of theirs  
Was unexpected; in all my time of war,  
I ne'er was so surprised.  Tysam. 
Think, dear Bassanes,  
How we may redeem some part of this dishonour.  Bass. 
I judge the way must be to attack  
Their left wing with a brisk assault.  Tysam. 
Be it thy command. Foscaris, Andrages,  
Draxanes and Eumenes, be you assisting  
In this enterprise with such Troops you lead.  Omn. 
To our utmost, Royal Sir.  Bass. 
And hope I shall soon give your Majesty  
A good account of this attempt— Madam,  
I have your happy wish.  Stat. 
And more, my Prayers for your safety.  Tysam. 
The other wing (my worthy Chiefs) I'll lead  
To assist your valours.  Omn. 
We all are ready with our Duties.  Tysam. 
And if our Swords cannot yet subdue these  
Women Warriors; let them triumph,  
And tell Dame Nature  
'T was her fond erroneous act,  
Entitled Man Superior.  Stat. 
Consider, Sir,  
For my sake, as you love Statyra's being,  
That have no small concern in every danger,  
Threatens you.  Tysam. 
'T is for thy sake I'd only live  
To crown this day with victory.  Stat. 
'T were too much hazard for my Love.  Tysam. 
Thou wouldst not have me tamely gaze upon  
These Foes, and see thee pine for food?  
Or yield ourselves to this imperious woman's will,  
That may, perhaps, give Laws unwelcome to  
Our Loves, or take thy Beauty Captive for  
Her slavish Handmaid, whom but to circled thus,  
Is joy to me above the world and conquest.  Stat. 
Admit I intercede for some fair peace,  
She is a Woman famed of Royal worth,  
And cannot be so cruel you express.  Tysam. 
I know thou wouldst not save my life by  
Woman's mercy; besides, 'twould fright thy gentle  
Person, to behold thy Sex in Armour,  
And their breasts (while thine's Love's tender sphere)  
Enclosed in Ribs of Steel, with one cut off,  
More furiously to wield their Martial Bows,  
With other Warlike horrors to afflict thy eyes.  Stat. 
I fear no danger, so I serve but yours.  Tysam. 
Admit I leave thee in my Tent,  
Attended with my best reserves of Force—  Enter an Officer. 
What news?  Officer. 
Your Army, Sir, is in outrageous Mutiny  
For Bread.  Alvan. 
I looked for this.  Tox. 
I fear as much the Consequence.  Tysam. 
A sign they are sons of Cowardice  
That cannot take it from their Women-foes,  
Or make them knead us more.  Officer. 
Your presence, Sir, may possibly allay  
Their fierce disorder.  Tysam. 
We'll see who dares not fight,  
Or starve if we command it— or else  
We'll look 'em dead— your hand my dearest—  
This Mutiny we'll soon compose—  [Exeunt. He leads Statyra to his Tent, & exit with the rest. Enter Foscaris, Andrages, Eumenes and Draxanes, disarmed and led Prisoners by three Amazon Ladies and other Women holding their Spears at 'em. Fosc. 
Nay, good Lady Errants some mercy—  Eum. 
As we are Soldiers—  1 Lady. 
'Tis below our Amazon honour to afford it  
To such Knights of Chivalry as you are.  Andr. 
As we are Gentlemen of good Nature to your Sex.  Drax. 
Or as you have had kindness to man.  Fosc. 
Or for Love's sake, of which I have store at your  
Service.  2 Lady. 
You are Spirits indeed of Cupid.  Fosc. 
I am more than an ordinary man that way,  
And have Venus about me in abundance.  Enter Daranthe. 1 Lady. 
Here comes our General.  2 Lady. 
We must not further act without her.  Daran. 
You have done bravely, valiant Ladies;  
But where's their General Bassanes, who  
Forced your Squadrons? the Queen would have been glad  
To have led in triumph such a famous Chief.  1 Lady. 
He fought his way with many wounds unto the  
Volga; in whose rough streams we judge him drowned.  Daran. 
The Queen will give his loss some pity—  
For you Gentlemen, who have not been  
Injurious to our Sex in practising  
Your Scythian custom; the Queen proclaims  
She'll think of mercy; and for such prisoners  
Who have Wives—  Fosc. 
What will be our Fate?  [Aside. Daran. 
It is her Royal Pleasure  
They be surrendered to their wills—  
I must attend and give her notice  
Of your brave success.  [Ex. Daranthe. Fosc. 
'Twere best to be aforehand with this Act  
Of Grace— I humbly lay hold on your Queen's mercy.  And. 
And I, Madam.  Eum. 
And I.  Drax. 
And I.  Enter Melvissa and Clarina. 2 Lad. 
Have none of you Wives in being, Gentlemen?  
What say you, Sir?  Fosc. 
Who I, Madam? I would not be so unfortunate  
For a world; and would you  
But espouse us to some of your Masculine  
Generation, we'd get your Queen such Heroines.  Melu. 
Dost hear how abominably these Creatures  
Of our Loves dissemble?  [To Clar. aside. Clar. 
They are obliged, it seems, to  
Change the complexion of their hearts.  Melu. 
Let it be for life's sake, or love, I'll have  
My due acknowledgements—  Andr. 
Do not own us, dear Wives,  
We beseech you.  [Aside. Melu. 
How, not own our just proprieties?  Fosc. 
As you are Women, and have mercy,  
We are coming off, and on the fairest terms  
Heart can wish— withdraw awhile,  
And we'll be with you in a trice, and  
Handle things kindly, as men and wives should do.  Melu. 
You shall excuse us, we'll reprieve you Our own way now.  Clar. 
And for you, Sir, whose Conversion,  
I hoped, my better stars had wrought—  Fosc. 
Alas! my sweetest, I love thee with a flame  
As warm as thou canst wish; but was forced to  
Dissemble for some motives of danger,  
Which I know thou'lt pardon.  1 Lad. 
'Tis fit we understand  
Your business, Ladies.  2 Lad. 
You are not Spies.—  Melu. 
By your fair leaves,  
We come to claim a pair of Husbands  
By virtue of your Queen's Proclamation.  Clar. 
Of which, one of them had the good manners  
To part with his Wife, witness myself.—  Omn. 
How's this?  Andr. 
What will become of us?  Fosc. 
Or me, that have provoked  
Fate and Woman together?  Andr. 
I am like to suffer under both, that must again  
Endure the insupportable, and endless  
Civil war of wedlock.  Fosc. 
O, the star of Venus has had a strange influence  
In our Horoscopes; there's no resisting destiny,  
And she the Ascendant.  Andr. 
Might I choose, I had rather once more charge the  
Amazonian Battle, and all the Viragoes  
Of womankind together.  [The Ladies compass them in holding their Spears at them.] Both Lad. 
Shall we kill 'em to revenge your injuries?  Clar. 
By no means, we beg their lives.  Melu. 
And having thus culled out our Cocks,  
I doubt not, but we shall manage the game  
Advantageously enough.  1 Lad. 
You have 'em at your mercy.  Clar. 
Thanks to your Queens.  Melu. 
She has mine likewise in abundance Ladies— But for you Husbands.—  Fosc. 
Nay, prithee we'll compose differences as you  Drax. 
Now for our Capitulations.  [Drax. and E●● Eum. 
If we do not make fair ones for ourselves  
With such Victors as these,  
We may curse our Nativities.  Fosc. 
What terms of composition, good sweet Wife?  
Thou know'st I love thee above imagination.  Clar. 
Perhaps I may give you fair quarter.  Fosc. 
Let it be but in thine, and I will die  
Upon the spot, ere part with thee again;  
I am thine now without a charm.  Clar. 
I promise nothing, though you see I have took  
Some pains for your safety.  Andr. 
What says my Spouse?  Melu. 
'Tis odds she'll proceed as occasion serves.  Andr. 
Be not proud of thy victory, thou know'st  
I have been a most submissive Husband.  Melu. 
You'll soon know my conditions—  Andr. 
And if they prove but gentle,  
I am conquered happily—  1 Lad. 
You will not leave our Camp presently?  Clar. 
Not till the issue of this day be past.  2 Lad. 
If you doubt obedience from your Husbands,  
Command a Guard from us.  Fosc. 
By no means Ladies,  
We acknowledge an absolute Conquest.  Melu. 
Otherwise, you know our Commission.  Clar. 
Your servant, fair noble Warriors.  [Ex. Fosc. Clar. Andr. Melu.] 1 Lad. 
The Queen.  Enter Mandana with Cydane and Renone. Mand. 
You have taken those fierce Militants  
That did attempt to force their safeties  
In despite of our bold powers.  2 Lad. 
We have, most Royal Madam,  
And in obedience to your great commands,  
Have gratified two Ladies of the Enemy's part,  
By surrendering of their Husbands to their wills.  Mand. 
I am glad my victory  
Does give my name a Trophy in the  
Obligation of my Sex; these men we war,  
Have too injurious treated— But where's  
The Prince Bassanes, their General?  1 Lad. 
He forced his bold escape, if not drowned  
In passing of the Volga.  Mand. 
We could have  
Been content to have seen him made our Captive.  Renon. 
And must have added  
Glory to your Victory.  Cyd. 
He much expressed himself your great Admirer.  Enter Messenger. Mess. 
Glad tidings, mighty Queen, the King and all  
His power is now surrendered to your General.  Mand. 
I knew the straight we had reduced 'em to,  
Would soon compel 'em—  
And where's his fair Persian Mistress, Statyra?  Mess. 
She is, besides some Prisoners of note  
Guarded by the valiant Moor.  Mand. 
This Crowns our Conquest.  Enter Daranthe and Parisatis, with Tysamnes and Statyra, Araxis, Toxaris and Alvanes. 
Daranthe, I must praise thy valour—  
And all you my Women Soldiers  
For this glorious day.  Daran. 
We are honoured that our duties  
Served your Greatness.  Mand. 
But thine, my valiant Moor, that gives  
Such noble emulation in thy worthy Deeds  
To all, I know not how enough to magnify,  
But soon will raise thy merit to some higher  
Trust, shall speak our great esteem, both of thy  
Valour and fidelity.  Par. 
You oblige the humblest of your Servants.  Mand. 
The King's a gracious person.  [Looking on Tysam. Par. 
I fear too taking.  Mand. 
Now, Mighty Sir?  Tysam. 
Your pleasure, Madam?  Mand. 
Is it not just, that I, who am the Mighty  
Warrior, in my Sex's Cause,  
Should frown thee dead?  Tysam. 
You cannot look me out of life, nor would  
I turn my head aside, though every beam  
Of yours, were Darts of Basilisks, that dare  
Behold you thus—  Mand. 
You are resolute I find;  
And would to Heaven your Queen were yet in being,  
That she might witness my concern in her  
Fair Cause; or from my power  
Ask thee her Sacrifice,  
Since thou hast been so much her Tyrant Lover.  Tysam. 
My ingratitude to her great virtue  
I acknowledge; though I meet all your rage  
In pouring of revenge for her sake on my head;  
And since she is no more, for which, Heaven knows,  
How true I grieve, I would not live, but for  
This Lady's sake.  [Looking on Statyra. Mand. 
Your new made Mistress—  Tysam. 
And just possessor of my heart.  Mand. 
She has strange fascination in her eyes,  
For which—  [Aside. Stat. 
If you pronounce me guilty, speak my death;  
Nay, I'll entreat it at your hand as royal mercy,  
So you'll spare the King,  
For whose great safety,  
Had I many thousand lives, I'd humbly  
Lay them, as my offering, at your feet.  Daran. 
This Lady has a noble soul.  Par. 
Too much the Kings I fear.  [Aside. Mand. 
I have cause enough to bid thee die,  
But will not cloud the glory of this day  
With Woman's death; and were't not for a sacred  
Resolution of my soul, perhaps would grant  
Thy Love's enjoyment; but I have now decreed—  Tysam. 
If death, I am ready to embrace it.  Stat. 
Oh speak some milder Accent! what can  
Become a Woman's soul, like yours, so much  
As gracious mercy?  Mand. 
My resolution's fixed irrevocable,  
As when by Heaven's overruling will, we guide  
Our Justice: for know Tysamnes, I have vowed  
Thy life a glorious victim of my Conquest;  
Nor has it been unusual in the Wars we make,  
For such a day as this, to grace our Altars  
With the best of Captives, of which I judge  
None worthy, like thyself.  Stat. 
You will not be divinely cruel?  Mand. 
I'll hear no more—  
Zeriffa— take these prisoners to thy custody;  
Thy Complexion is most fit to serve this Trust;  
And be sure you have a watchful eye  
Upon this Lady; the rest, perhaps,  
Shall find our mercy.  Par. 
I joy this trust.  Tysam. 
Grieve not, Statyra, since I die thy Lover.  Stat. 
And might I bleed upon the Altar with you,  
'Twere then my Love's true Sacrifice.  Mand. 
Thus far this day propitious does appear,  
But from the end great Acts their Crowns must wear.  [Ex. Omnes.  

ACT V. SCENE I.  Enter Mandana and Parisatis. Mand. 
HOw bears Tysamnes his restraint, and our  
Declared resolves? I know they needs  
Must bow his lofty heart.  Par. 
As unconcerned as Infant's sleep,  
Or as the Man you'd choose the object of  
Your mercy ought to be— nay more.—  Mand. 
What means that more?  Par. 
You are a Woman.  Mand. 
But a Conqueror.  Par. 
Had I like power.  Mand. 
What then?  Par. 
I'd bid him live at least.  Mand. 
Thou wouldst not have me love him?  Par. 
No by my life—  
Though 'twere a gracious Act to Heaven, if you  
Vouchsafe him mercy; since he's obliged to fair  
Statyra's Love; you else will kill two hearts at once.  Mand. 
Away with this fond pity;  
I have fixed my Justice  Par. 
Your pleasure Madam.  Mand. 
Bring forth the King,  
I'll make him know it.  Par. 
I am all confusion.  [Ex. Parisatis. Mand. 
This Moor is brave and loyal; my Mother once  
Had such a Lady near her person, she  
Would commend above what Faith can reach.  Enter Parisatis with Tysamnes. 
Zeriffa! admit none to our presence.  Par. 
I shall not— but by your leave Queen  
Will here observe—  [Pur. Stands aside. Mand. 
I hear, Tysamnes,  
You contemn the vow I've made,  
Nor does my eye  
Discern other then pleasing calms upon  
The brow you seem to wear.  Tysam. 
Such as become a King,  
And every vulgar man, when made a Sacrifice  
To woman's passion—  Mand. 
Take heed, Sir, how  
You entertain a Summer in your hopes,  
Or slight the Justice I decree.  Tysam. 
What mean you, Madam?  
Alas! I looked to meet the Mitred Priest,  
The Altar fixed, where I should bleed your Victim,  
And if you superscribe it  
With my crimes of Love,  
Which caused at once my Parisatis death,  
And fair Statyra's tears, I'll call it justice,  
And due expiation of my sins to Heaven.  Mand. 
I'll soon myself convey you to the  
Altar I intent—  Par. 
What means the Queen?  [Aside. Mand. 
Or say I bid thee live?  Tysam. 
'Twere then a mercy greater than I crave,  
Or merit.  Mand. 
I'd have thee judge it more.  Par. 
'Tis love most certain.  [Aside. Mand. 
What think you of this look?  [She smiles. Tysam. 
'Tis somewhat gentler than I did expect.  Mand. 
And what of this?  [Smiles again. Tysam. 
It seems more kind than common smile.  Mand. 
Is it not welcome to thy heart?  Tysam. 
'Twere too much to bestow such beams on me,  
And gives me greater wonder, than should Lights Orb  
Contract its glory to the Arctic Pole,  
To quicken there some frozen spot of earth.  Mand. 
He does perceive— thy pardon now is written  
In my heart— Zeriffa—  Enter Parisatis. 
See thou respect Tysamnes  
Above observance of a Prisoner; I have  
Some motives of a near concern require it.  [Ex. Mandana. Par. 
Is this your vow, oh Parisatis?  
Didst thou walk as undiscerned as Ghosts  
That clothe themselves in bodies of the Air;  
This must affright thee more, then timorous hearts  
Scared with such pale horrors—  
Admit, Sir, I congratulate this Grace.  Tysam. 
'Twas unexpected—  
And I with glader eyes could have beheld  
Thee made my deaths black Handmaid.  Par. 
You do not slight the Queen, that with her  
Gracious beams of mercy quickens you to live?  
Nay more, if I discern that have some trust  
From her fair thoughts, is giving of herself  
A conquest to your Love— methinks  
This should awake your apprehension,  Tysam. 
It does! but find myself  
Unshaken to Statyra, and could have wished  
Your Queens more rigid vow were unrepealed,  
That I might bleed her Sacrifice.  Par. 
She is your Crime,  
And therefore does deserve to be your Fate,  
Or else embrace the same with her.  Tysam. 
Though thy dark visage is most fit to be  
The messenger of death and all its horrors,  
I may inquire what cause incites thee  
To appear thus cruel.  Par. 
It breaks like clearest justice  
From my Soul, that am obliged to be  
Your Queen's Revenger—  Tysam. 
Thou art not sent from t'other world  
To be my Executioner, where she's adorned  
With Crowns and smiles of Angels, still interceding  
My forgiveness.  Par. 
I have grieved his Soul too much,  
Pardon me, Sir, I was too bold to urge  
Your penitence.  [Aside. Tysam. 
It proves thee worthy.  Par. 
One word and I have done; were your Queen living?  
Nay more, Sir, were't soon as manifest, she  
Hazarded her life, reprieved on purpose  
For your safety, would you receive her  
To your embrace and love?  Tysam. 
She is too dear to Heaven  
To be given thence; and Stars which frowned upon  
That fatal Act, already have enroled her  
In their first of bright Societies—  
But this is all thy dream.  Par. 
Believe it such—  
Yet so far I dare represent herself,  
As to assure you, for her sake, I'll die  
To purchase your just freedom—  
Let this tear confirm you, as 'twere shed from her.  Enter Statyra. [Ex. Parisatis. 
Statyra Sir.  Tysam. 
The carriage of this Moor  
Is honours riddle to my thoughts—  
Oh my Statyra! I have yet a hope of thy  
Enjoyment.  Stat. 
Does the Queen Incline to mercy?  Tysam. 
She has receded from her vow.  Stat. 
That's happy—  
And more cruel in decree, seeks  
To divide my soul from thine—  
Thou understand'st me?  Stat. 
I do too sadly—  Tysam. 
But this Moor, employed by Heaven  
To be a Guardian of our Loves, or as  
The night, or Hymen gave her this complexion  
To be a sober guide unto his rights,  
Devotees herself to serve our safeties.  Stat. 
This means of happiness was above my hope,  
While through each vein of mine, my blood had ebbings  
From my heart, in apprehension of your dangers;  
Nor did I view her with less horror,  
Conceiving her the Queens most cruel instrument.  Tysam. 
I thought her so, but she has given me such  
Assurance of her Faith and Love, that had  
Thy beauteous figure took a veil like her,  
Or were my Parisatis  
Represented such, I would not have expected  
A more strict concern for me.  Stat. 
It seems too much  
To credit from a stranger, or else 'tis but  
Love's kinder Labyrinth.  Enter Parisatis. Tysam. 
She's here— salute her  
With thy kindest beams, she does deserve  
Our near regards.  Stat. 
Madam, the King has given me such a character  
Of your worth, as I must beg to join  
Acknowledgements with his.  Par. 
I'll venture all that's dear to serve him,  
And your virtue; but this is not a time  
For Words: Things call to action—  
Please you withdraw.  [Ex. Tysam. Stat. Enter Draxanes. 
Draxanes come?  Drax. 
I hope most happily.  Par. 
And hast thou found him?  Drax. 
Yes, Madam, and have brought him.  Par. 
This place is safe from ears— wait him to me.  [Ex. Drax. 
If fortune be not peevish now, the Scene  
I have laid shall Crown my Acts.  Enter Bassanes disguised. 
I am wondrous glad to see thee live.  Bass. 
And I like to some man that's  
Struck with Ecstasies of joy,  
Could even resign my soul, as thus  
I kiss the ground I tread, in adoration Of your being here, when feared beyond a doubt  
You had snatched yourself away, to make its  
Bosom in your grave more sacred.  Par. 
Draxanes told thee all?  Bass. 
He did Madam,  
As I was levying of Recruits to free the King  
From this restraint he suffers here.  Par. 
Then we'll spare further circumstance,  
And only know I have prepared to do him  
Signal service; for which end, I took this Cloud,  
Either to die unknown, or live a means  
Of his loved preservation.  Bass. 
This deed must ravish Men and Angels  
To express; who must admire at once  
Your most heroic constancy and virtue.  Par. 
Enough Bassanes, and pardon me, that I  
Sent my summons to join thee as companion  
In the dangers I embrace.  Bass. 
You shall command  
My utmost peril, though every man I meet  
Could look me into Atoms.  Par. 
And know to my  
More cruel Fate, the King not only has  
A Mistress in Statyra, but the Queen  
Mandana, his fair Conqueror, has vowed  
Him for her own enjoyment.  Bass. 
What can be thought on  
To resist this high injustice?  Par. 
I have resolved upon the means, in which  
I'll use thy Conduct, not more approved to act,  
Then sage in resolution; nor do I doubt  
The instruments we'll use, are less than cordial,  
To embrace the end we shall propose, which must  
Be swift in execution.  Bass. 
I would not waste a minute ere I act to serve it.  Par. 
The Guards are here at my devotion, besides  
A considerable number of our bravest Officers,  
By the Queen Mandana, set at liberty.  Bass. 
They may be serviceable to your design.  Par. 
The honour of their King obliges it—  
Within we'll debate more at large particulars.  [Exeunt. Enter Toxaris, Alvanes, Araxis. Tox. 
Well Gallant, we are all Freemen now.  Alu. 
'Tis a seasonable mercy to us Courtiers,  
Not used to this kind of belly duty;  
We otherwise must have been living Anatomies  
By this time.  Arax. 
And so perhaps Metamorphized  
Into starved Ghosts, to walk with hideous  
Lamentations these Fields of Victory.  Tox. 
I do not think  
All th' Infernal Region can fright these  
Victrices, should they appear in Arms,  
There's not an Image of Mars, but does raise  
Their fury above Miracle.  Alu. 
And yet  
For all their being thus courageous and hardy  
(Which must be acknowledged more than wonder  
In their soft kind) they are refined as our Ladies  
Of the best converse; and as modishly witty  
As any she Platonic living—  Arax. 
If Venus make no Captives in this shape  
Of Mars, may her Son ne'er more wear Quiver.  Enter Eumenes. Eum. 
Never men enfranchised on such terms  
As we are, for which this great and fair  
Warrior deserves a Jubilee.  Tox. 
She's highly gracious.  Eum. 
And like the Sun diffusive in her beams;  
I have been so Caressed by our fair Conquerors,  
Under several Titles and Commands, as if they'd  
Invite us shortly to match by Regiments,  
And so at last join Armies! what a day  
Of Hymen would that be?  Alu. 
Could but our King be freed  
On royal terms, 'twould add yet  
Glory to this Queens great Acts.  Eum. 
Some did interpret  
Favourably, when she late vowed him  
To a sad destiny.  Arax. 
As how?  Eum. 
As men should construe in like case, a Woman's vow.  Tox. 
I am yet to learn, there's nothing but  
Riddle in the whole Sex.  Eum. 
'Tis said that Love's the Oedipus,  
And has resolved it, to whose soft Altars  
She has given the King some beams of invitation.  Alu. 
But that may add unto his greater peril,  
Being so much devoted to Statyra,  
That his heart is Ice to other flame.  Arax. 
Heaven guide things for the best!  Tox. 
Where did you leave Draxanes?  
He shares of this Grace I hope?  Eum. 
Yes, and is advanced to no small favour.—  Tox. 
Not with the Queen?  Eum. 
No, but what's a step to't,  
He is deep in the Moors;  
I left him in close Conference with her.  Alu. 
That Moor carries the stream indeed of Grace:  
Our King committed to her trust with his beauteous Mistress.  Arax. 
But what to judge her.  Eum. 
She bears a Soul of brightest temperament;  
As if that providence had found a place  
Elsewhere for her Nativity; or as she wore  
An Ethiopes Cloudy Veil, from Art, not Nature.  Enter Foscaris leading Clarina, and Andrages Melvissa. Tox. 
Foscaris and Andrages come off thus  
With their Wives! this must conclude  
A strange day of Woman's Victory.  Fosc. 
I have paid my Arrears  
Of Love, I hope to purpose; we are  
Reconciled, and have embraced, and so forth Gentlemen.  Clar. 
You have so.  Fosc. 
And can bill like Doves now.  Clar. 
Not too much, I beseech you, lest you fall  
Into a surfeit of Love again; too much  
Of the honey of Wedlock is not good  
For your palate.  Eum. 
We joy your Loves.  Fosc. 
If any be unkind henceforth to his Spouse,  
May he suffer my penance; there's some  
Mystery behind, which you shall all know  
At leisure: in the Interim, I acknowledge  
My happiness, from you Lady.  Melu. 
I am glad it was in my power to serve  
Your felicity in Clarina's.  Andr. 
And I rejoice a kind Wife too, Gentlemen.  Melu. 
But take heed you don't presume;  
You know my power when I please.  Tox. 
These Women Conquerors are strangely noble  Clar. 
We own our Husbands from their mercy.  Andr. 
And we our freedoms.  Fosc. 
Soldiers in every vein Gentlemen,  
And can drink a smart health or two as they  
Discourse of Arms— and would they yield  
Reasonable obedience to mankind, I'd wish  
You all to match amongst them, they'd spirit  
Flesh and blood indeed.  Alu. 
I long to be doing.  Arax. 
And I as much.  Tox. 
Could but the King come off nobly.  Fosc. 
He must, if the Queen do not once more  
Change her vow.  Alu. 
No news yet of the General Bassanes?  Eum. 
He vanished in a storm of darts! but what  
His fate is Heaven knows.  Enter Draxanes. Drax. 
A word in private.  [Whispers to Eumenes who deliver it to one another. Eum. 
Is't possible?—  Drax. 
Rely your faiths on mine.  Tox. 
We are confirmed.  Melu. 
You may admit us to Council,  
Wives should partake their Husband's secrets.  Andr. 
You shall, you shall.  Fosc. 
And know we have wondrous things in hand.  Clar. 
If honourable, I'll venture all that's dear  
To serve it.  Melu. 
And I as far engage.  Fosc. 
Such as must fill your bosoms full of joy—  
Within more of particulars.  [Ex. Omnes. Enter Mandana, Daranthe, Cydane, Renone, and others attending. Mand. 
We have given our mercy to the King.  Daran. 
'Twas gracious like yourself.—  Mand. 
Nor will I blush to own  
His Grace's merit an esteem from us.  Cyd. 
The Queen is surely smitten with her great Captive?  Renon. 
Beyond a doubt.  Mand. 
Bring forth the King Cydane.  [Ex. Cydane. 
We'll treat him nobler yet, and make him joy  
This day of womens' conquest.  Enter Cydane. Cyd. 
Madam! the King's withdrawn.  Mand. 
How?  Cyd. 
Or else escaped.  Mand. 
Blistered be thy tongue  
That brings such tidings to my heart—  
Where is the Moor?  Cyd. 
Not to be found.  Enter Statyra. Mand. 
Her black Soul shall take a gloomy flight  
To the other world for this.  Stat. 
I answer for her trust.  Mand. 
Thy life shall bear hers company.  Stat. 
I am glad  
To yield it up a Victim to your wrath,  
Since that must raise a Trophy to my Love;  
Where every Virgin of a faith like mine,  
Will drop a tear to give my memory  
A name, shall blast the glory of your Conquest.  Mand. 
Away with this fond woman; it is an Ague  
To my blood to hear her reason thus.  [As they offer to carry her off. Enter Bassanes disguised, with Foscaris, Andrages, Drax. Eum. Tox. Alu. Arax. and others armed. Bass. 
Hold and hear me first.  Mand. 
How! men in Arms before our presence?  
Have we no Guard there?—  Bass. 
None but what I have placed;  
And were your Women changed to Sons of Mars,  
Nay, Cadmus' fiercer issue joined to them,  
When ripened first to horror of mankind,  
As the earth trembling did contain their roots;  
This Sword of mine should mow 'em down  
To smooth the path I lead.  Mand. 
A combination of these humane things  
So late our Arms reduced—  
Methinks they should convert to nothing  
From a look of mine; or I lose Majesty.  Daran. 
This surprisal was beyond the reach of thought.  Renon. 
'Tis most ignoble.  Mand. 
And thou that seem'st an object  
Fit to guide such base ingratitude,  
What shall I call thee? Traitor?  Bass. 
A name that had an honour for your Soul,  
That filled no less the world with wonders;  
And lest your womens' frailty should stain  
The brightness of your noble Deeds,  
I thought it justice to resist your will,  
Though I met Seas of danger in the act.  Mand. 
Bold and Impudent!  Bass. 
I must be plainer,  
Do you not love the King?  Mand. 
Suppose it granted—  Bass. 
Heaven does not—  
And think not, Madam, that my blood,  
Though it bears fire of honour in each vein,  
But 'tis as cold to treachery; nor does the Cause  
That I maintain, less than command, without  
An arm of force—  
This Lady in her own fair right, methinks,  
Should move you.  [To Statyra. Stat. 
May Heaven reward thy virtue!  Mand. 
She is the Kings beloved; but I have won  
Him mine by Arms.  Bass. 
And therefore nobler conquest  
To subdue yourself: The Bays you wear  
In triumph, else must wither on your brow,  
Where Majesty and Beauty's lustre twine  
To make one Excellence.  Stat. 
What providence has Blessed me with this Advocate?  Renon. 
I have seen a face resembles that.  [Pulls off his Beard and Patches. Daran. 
The Queen a little altars.  Mand. 
It must be he.  Bass. 
Behold then, Royal Madam, this face  
Made but my own dark copy by disguise,  
Thus cleared to own it's just original.  Mand. 
Bassanes living?  Bass. 
In which I wear  
A mirror of my heart, that does without  
A flattery express a Soul that highly  
Honours yours, though it has seemed divested  
Of those Charms in making this reflection  
On your justice, which here is one most  
Powerful to incline.  [To Parisatis. Enter Parisatis attended by Clarina and Melvissa. Mand. 
What is this Lady?  Cyd. 
The Queen Parisatis, Madam.  Mand. 
It cannot be;  
A mere imposture to abuse me.  Renon. 
We must avow 'tis she.  Mand. 
I am all wonder.  Stat. 
And I no less rejoice to see you live;  
I hope you'll pardon, that I claimed an interest  
In your King's affection, when 'twas assured  
You had no Being in the world.  Par. 
And I more humbly beg one here;  
Nor shall it ere be told that Parisatis  
Walked in that dark Cloud (though it veiled her  
Actings for preservation of the life and love  
Of her Tysamnes) to live, your trust abused,  
Without a pardon from your lips.  Daran. 
This Woman's brave.  Par. 
Nor shall you lose, besides,  
One fruit of victory.  Mand. 
You were the Moor then?  Par. 
The same, most Royal Madam—  
And if you are my Subjects, prostrate  
Yourselves and swords, with me, at these  
Majestic feet.  [Kneels. Mand. 
This is a Conquest happier than all;  
Nor shall e'er Woman boast she had the better  
Of Mandana's honour— Madam, you have  
Forgiveness— take up your weapons worthy Soldiers.  [To Parisatis. Bass. 
You are highly gracious.  Mand. 
Where is the King?  Par. 
'Twas but given out he had escaped.  Mand. 
Bassanes, you'll attend him to us.  Enter Tysamnes whispering Bassanes, Foscaris, Andr. Tox. Alu. Arax. Drax. Eumenes. Tysam. 
Do I then live to be thus happy in  
Your grace and pardon?  Mand. 
Your Queen has conquered me Tysamnes,  
After the power of your Arms was made  
My valour's glory; nor did the darts of Love,  
Which I confess, made some impression here,  [Pointing to her breast. 
Leave wounds but to be healed more happily—  
I vowed you, Sir, to love.  Par. 
No change I hope.  [Aside. Mand. 
And thus will make your offering here;  
She is a Jewel of a Crown indeed.  [Presents him to the Queen. Tysam. 
I take her on my knees—  
She is too great a blessing, thus restored  [Kneels. 
To my embrace, to be with less devotion owned  
From Heaven, imploring (as I kneel) thy pardon.  Par. 
You have it Sir, though not a gift, where you  
Command a duty; which when most passive  
In a Wife, does but refine the gold of Virtue.  Tysam. 
Why didst thou take this Cloud?  Par. 
To die unknown, or serve your safety.  Daran. 
A most heroic constancy.  Tysam. 
Thy virtue's richer Than the world's vast globe, were it  
Converted to one purest Diamond.  Mand. 
And does as far exceed what story can relate.  Tysam. 
But I have yet a load of mercy here  
To beg, my crime of Love to thee Statyra,  
Which else must cloud this day of comforts,  
And bring eternal night upon my soul.  Stat. 
Though I have lost an expectation of  
My greatest bliss in your enjoyment,  
That in warm sighs might soon dissolve  
A Virgin's heart like mine, yet I can feel  
No want of happiness, since I behold  
Your Souls, that have already mingled joys,  
Meet thus, and kiss each other.  Tysam. 
Heaven must reward thy goodness.  Par. 
And my for ever obligation.  Mand. 
This days example gives to Love  
Such brave repute, that I who both have fought,  
And men commanded, could even yield  
To hold my Sceptre from obedience.  Tysam. 
Here is a Prince within your eye (I hope  
More near your heart) that might deserve  
To rule a Throne like yours.  Mand. 
I know him noble.  Bass. 
And one, most Royal Madam, that owns  
A soul, you have an interest to command  
ere since I first beheld the glory of your charms:  
Pardon me, I now avow it, that rather  
To express my wonder of your virtue,  
Should by an humble distance still admire.  Mand. 
'Tis in my power to bring you nearer:  
Bassanes is a Prince may well become  
An Empress of the world's great choice; and were  
Mandana such, she would not think her Love  
Or Greatness stooped to match with thine.  Bass. 
You make me more than happy.  Mand. 
And I that honour Arms, and thy famed Deeds  
In War, will call it noblest triumph  
To yield thy Love a victory o'er mine.  Bass. 
This bounty streams so powerful on my heart,  
That I may fear its guide, in such a Sea  
Of joys you bring.  Mand. 
I am yours for ever, dear Bassanes.  Drax. 
This day surpasses wonder.  Fosc. 
I knew it must conclude with some  
Extraordinary Love-miracle besides my own.  [Aside. Mand. 
Daranthe! we must now no more make war,  
I have matched a Soldier.  Bass. 
One that will live and die your just admirer.  Mand. 
And Women, here divest  
Yourselves of Arms with me.  [They take off their Arms. Dar. Ren. Cyd. 
We all obey your Majesty.  Mand. 
And let your conquests henceforth be to love,  
And give Men sole supremacy—  
I hope our Kingdoms shall unite in making  [To Tysamnes. 
Laws may fit each Sex's duty.  Tysam. 
I am obliged for Parisatis sake  
To make Decrees, no arbitrary will  
Of man shall henceforth ere reject a Wife.  Mand. 
Our Crowns will have a blessed union then—  
What pattern shall we take?  Tysam. 
Such as the world  
With best consent does practise.  Bass. 
Or what's most  
Laudable, the form of happy England.  Mand. 
It has been most approved.  Par. 
Now Ladies, you are all well pleased to see  
This peace that smiles upon your Loves, and gives  
Both Sexes with our Crowns, such happiness.  Clar. 
A welcome joy.  Melu. 
We now can call our Husbands  
Ours by lawful duty.  Andr. 
I am glad to hear that word.  Fosc. 
And I to be secured thus; I was in no small  
Apprehension, this female victory  
Might have imporwed them to part with us;  
What a mockery of Love's Magic had I been then?  Mand. 
My Warriors, you will all take Husbands now?  
Here are men fit to match your spirits.  Daran. 
Your great example must invite it.  Tysam. 
What shall this day do for thee fair Statyra?  
The bounty of thy soul deserves a recompense  
Above what tongue can speak, that spreads  
A volume of thy goodness, fit only  
For the eye of Heaven to read.  Stat. 
And thither I'll devote my love,  
Though while I live, no day shall pass without  
A contemplation of your happiness.  Mand. 
You will not soon depart?  Par. 
For Parisatis sake you must not.  Stat. 
'Tis my ambition first to fill an humble place  
In your bright train of triumphs.  Tysam. 
For which thou dost deserve a Chariot  
Of Celestial substance,  
Moved by the wings of Seraphims;  
And every Virgin of most noble soul,  
Attending thee with Songs of Raptures;  
The Muses (as fair-Hand-maids to thy virtue)  
Their best of Poets should inspire.  Stat. 
You too much honour my small merits.  Bass. 
This day does claim a glory from your worth,  
And next my just devotion here— my heart  [To Mandana. 
Shall keep an Altar sacred to Parisatis  
Constant love and praise, with yours.  Stat. 
And mine no less  
Shall speak Bassane's fame.  Par. 
I'll be your Rival Madam, there—  
That am obliged unto this noble Prince  [To Bassanes. 
By highest gratitude.  Tysam. 
And I above expression thine.  [To Bassanes. Mand. 
Tysamnes with your Queen must lead  
The way unto our joys—  
And Women hence from us this pattern take,  
Love, and obedience, your best conquests make.  Ex. Omnes.  

Epilogue Spoken by the Queen of Amazon.  

WE Amazon's did here unconquered yield,  
And nobly too, when Love had gained the Field,  
Against whose Darts, what Woman wears ashield?   

This War our Poet taught us by his Pen,  
But 'twas to be such Conqueresses then,  
As you ought, Ladies, when you Captive Men.   

Nor will we doubt if you protect our fear,  
Though 'gainst our Gonquest Critics shall make War,  
Such Foes no Amazon's e'er met with here.   

Besides the stratagems you Gallants know,  
Our Plays defeat and worse our Women too,  
A Miss that's fine we cannot keep for you.   

Then Gentlemen, since Love is much your way,  
Be well advised how you're unkind to day,  
Lest we defy all such who damn our Play.   

Our Poet needs not apprehend what right  
You Wits will do him, or your factions spite,  
That's their concern who do for Money write.   

But with the Actors you may deal far worse,  
For if you damn this Play, 'tis half their Curse,  
Considering how its charge has plagued their Purse.   

Which if you do, I'll tell you what they say,  
They'll venture no more cost upon a Play,  
You shill have Parce good store a cheaper way.   
FINIS.