PANDORA, A Comedy.  
LONDON, Printed by T. Mabb, For john Pleyfere, at the White Bear, in the Upper-Walk of the New-Exchange; And Thomas Hors-man, next Door to the Sign of the Three Kings in the Strand, 1664.   

Imprimatur,  
May the 3d. 1664. Roger L' Strange.   

THE Prologue.  
Lover's to You I come, without a Bribe,  
From one that boosts himself of your own Tribe,  
And therefore hopes, that your good Natures may  
On his behalf, above your judgements sway:  
What you'll see here is natural, all pretence  
He disavows, to Wit, or Eloquence:  
With Friendship he presents you, and with love,  
Such as are wont in his free breast to move,  
Such possions as he feels, our Author writes,  
And humours such, as he observes, indites:  
From Conversation bringing to the Stage,  
What he does think, will please the present Age.  
And if you do not grudge your time here spent,  
He will accept it for a Compliment.   


The Names of the Actors.  
The Prince of Syracuse.  
Theodocia his Daughter.  
Pandora, a great Lady of the Prince his Family.  
Lindamira, a Lady of Quality.  
Lonzartes, Right Heir to the Principality.  
Clearcus, a Lord of the Prince his Kindred.  
Silvander, a Young Lord of the Court.  


Three Counsellors.  
Aristonicus,  
Clothero,  
Ormuseus.    


Ladies Attending the Princess.  
Teretia,  
Philora.    


For Pandora.  
Three more  
Attending  
Ladies.  
And Lindamira.    
Men-Dancers.  
Women-Dancers.  


Lackeys.  
Sanga,  
and  
Geta.    
An Old-Woman.    

PANDORA: THE Scene in Syracutia.  

FIRST ACT.  Enter Lonzartes and Clearchus in long Grey Cloaks over their Rich clothes, with Sanga and Geta, two Lacques carrying Lanterns, the two Lords Enter a private House, the two Servants stay. San. 
COme Geta, our Lords have no more use of us, we may go sleep!  Geta. 
'tis a fair time indeed to sleep, when day begins to break?— this is a lewd life, that our Lords do lead.  San. 
Why man? the Night was made for labourers to rest; and for great Lords to Revel in, come away.  Geta 
My Lord, is not half so ill as thine.  Sanga. 
What's that to thee, or me, come away; we'll go to Beggar's Hall, and be as merry as our Lords.  Geta. 
No, no, I will no more sully my credit, in thy company; I converse with our ●all Dairy-maid, who affords me Honours, thou canst not guests at Sanga! Oh the great Felicities! that do belong to chaste embraces?  San. 
I like embraces well.  Geta 
I mea●●y Wedlock man.  San 
A Coxcomb thou art, and a Cuckold thou 〈◊〉 be; adiew Fool.  Geta. 
Adieu Rogue.  Exeunt severally. A noise within, Re-enter Clearcus, and Lonzartes, in the Dark. Clearcus. 
●otts on thy slippery heels; we are undone!  Lonzartes. 
Let us draw, and stand upon guard, I hear some call within!  Cle. 
What was that strange noise, you made?  Lon. 
At the bottom of the others, I fell, which gave the Alarum to the dogs, and they waked all the Family!  Enter Old Woman Woman 
Oh my Lord! what have you done? all the House are up, pray stand close a while,— are you alone?  Cle. 
Yes, yes.  Exeunt Old Woman. Lonzartes. 
Thou art a very Villain Clearcus, thus to betray a poor Wench, that loves thee; and to force me accept a Favour, ● abhor to think on.  Cle. 
Be the blame mine, I have no joy in any thing, unless my Friend Participate;— if I have any skill in Woman; you will thank me for this favour, and say, you never had the like of Angelica.  Lon. 
Suppose she will not consent? must I ravish her?— you say she knows not of my coming  Cle. 
I swear she does not.  Lon. 
Would I were out again, these Romances please not me;— pray how must I proceed?  Cle. 
Thus, she is in Bed, the Room is dark, I'll entertain her with discourse, while you undress; then I'll retire, and soon return with Light, to let her see my friend and I, must be as one man to her.  Lon. 
I wonder all women do not hate thee, thou dost abuse all them that trust thee.  Cle. 
You are deceived Lonzartes, such silly girls, do take it for a compliment, to recommend them to a Noble Friend!  Lon. 
Well, I must now be subject to thy will, and do submit to do, what I detest!— me thinks this is a kind of Rape I undertake;— thou art too wild for my Converse Clearcus.  Clear. 
Hold your peace.  Enter Old Woman. Woman. 
Hist, hist, my Lord!  Cle. 
Here, here.  Wom. 
Give me your hand, softly, softly, follow me.  Exeunt Woman leading them off, holding hands. Enter the Old Prince of Syracuse, with Silvander, Aristonicus, Clothero, Ormuseus, and ●rain. Prince 
How does Lonzartes bear his Suppression Aristonicus? now he is full-man grown.  Ari. 
Like a wise man sir, that will not seem to see, what he cannot remedy  Pri. 
I have better thoughts for him, than he has for himself; if Clearcus spoil him not!  Ari. 
When more years have overcome some evils, incident to youth, I hope he will be worthy your highest favours Sir.  Pri. 
Some of you should advise him to a little more sobriety, than Clearcus will allow of;— I apprehend Silvander, that the Corinthian will quarrel, for my refusing to treat his Marriage with Theodosia, whom I design another way;—— she has aversion to him.  Silius 
The Princes may be excused for her dislike, unto so sierce a man, the Corinthian Prince, is all fire, and fury, which does fright, not win affection.  Pr. 
If Theodosia will be advised by me, I shall provide better for her;— you know Lonzartes right Silvander! if he were reclaimed, I would wish him to my Daughter.  Sil. 
I have some thoughts Sir, that Lonzartes does Consort with wild Clearcus, and complies in all his Vanities, only to avoid your Jealousy, of his higher thoughts of interest in the State! he is no fool Sir.  Pr. 
I wish it prove not too much his Nature, to be so debauched, for he has not higher thoughts of State interest, than I have for him; he has been wronged Silvander, and I will endeavour to do him right if he'll be worthy of it.  Exeunt Omnes▪ Enter Lonzartes and Clearcus in a Garden. Cle. 
Why, this grave face to me Lonzartes?  Lon. 
Thou are so wild, that I have lost my credit by conver●●ng with thee, which I must redeem, by keeping better company hereafter.  Cle. 
Wisely resolved, and in good time declared;— I have indeed observed, that you of late converse with Ladies, and delight in rich laced Satin, and in silver Petticoats; as if you meant to turn Apostate, from the freedom we have 〈◊〉, and now seek your game in secret, my Lonzartes.  Lon. 
If I should, pray which is most Honourable? And most suitable to my Quality? The daily terror of getting such diseases, as inhabit your dark houses, has frighted me into better purposes.  Cle. 
Your Quality! I with your Prince sh●p had all the Ladies you desire, so I might have like freedom with their Maids.  Lon. 
I shall not spoil your Market, but leave you those cheap ●attel, at your own price.  Cle. 
See the difference now, between your Pride, and my Humility; you have studied, learned discourses to such as must justify your conversion (as you call it) but have never weighed the difference of our crimes;— such thoughts Lonzartes, do move, my tender Conscience, to take what ● can find, for ready money; which I freely enjoy, without those frights you daily feel.  Lon. 
Thou dost mistake me, and exclaimest against crimes, I never understood.  Cle 
You can counterfeit I know, and may cozen all the World but me! I will not give my freedom up, to such follies as you serve, to be Master of all your wishes.  Lon. 
I shall not labour to convert you, but will take leave to despise your mean ways, while you envy mine.  Cle. 
Envy! by Violins eyes, I do despise you, and your ways, and will wager any thing you dare, that I enjoy this night a beauty more exact, than any cloath-of-Gold-Dame you treat with, I envy you! no, I pity you Lonzartes, that after such experience, at your years, you should be fooled so;— confess now seriously, if you have ever met a better shape, a softer, or a whiter skin, or any more sweet, or more bewitching fair, and lovely, than my Angelica.  Lon. 
If I have not! what then?  Cle. 
Why? she shall be Fine, and rich array, when I so please! I can call her Sultaness too! and by my fancy, raise her above those, the World allows of.  Lon. 
I do believe thee, and thy fancy, alike Extravagant.  Cle. 
But why so serious on the sudden? and so dull? you shall have good Cheer, and good Company to night, at the old place.  Lon 
I shall get an ill Conscience by it!  Cle. 
That sauce, agrees not with the Dainties we must feed on, pray lay by your Conscience, until morning.  Lon. 
I wish I were well rid of thee, all thy Rhetoric, shall never engage me, to meet such company again.  Cle. 
Why pray, how can you spend your time better?  Lon. 
I do begin to hate myself, and will love thee no longer  Cle. 
Very good;— Are not you the most debauched man in Syracuse? (except myself!) how come you by this Impudence? to blush for going to a merry meeting? Is not your own Lodging, beyond a Scandal? are not all the Wenches in that Street, your Pensioners?— not love me! I will study to scorn you, and your love for ever; I despise a man that does forsake his Principles.  Lon. 
I begin to hate thy overmuch lewdness, and to see my own Deformities.  Cle. 
Not love me!  Lon. 
Come, I do love thee, too well I love thee, shall we go home, and put off this meeting?  Cle. 
Lonzartes, though I do love your Friendship, I do hate this Humour in you, that thus would lay a blemish on me.  Enter to them Lindamira and Teretia, not at first seen. Ter 
See Lindamira, the two wild Princes are in our way, how shall we get by him?  Lin. 
Put on a confidence beyond theirs, and 〈◊〉 will amaze them!  Ter. 
Can that be?  Lin. 
I'll be your Forlorn Hope, do but second me, and I'll secure your pass this time;— You'll see them start, shoot aside, as from a Baza●iske! the honest woman!  Ter. 
Barbarous!— I have heard indeed, they eat all virtuous women!  Lin. 
They always look over us, as if they saw us not; but where they have an interest, or hope to gain it, they can like subtle Serpents, humbly creep, to flatter and betray.  He now sees the Ladies. Cle. 
A prize, a prize Lonzartes, each of us one; let us reconcile for this booty, and dispute at leisure;— you close walk invites;— which will you assault?  Lon. 
Neither, they are both virtuous?  Cle. 
Who knows that? have they done sucking?  Lin. 
Dost thou think there be none virtuous, beyond their infancy!  Cle. 
Yes, much too many, but I hope better of these; give me the woman, and keep her virtue to yourself:— I'll charge 'em both, there may be a Critical minute for me;— fair Ladies.  Lin. 
Hold my Lord, you are out at first, one of us is very brown I assure you.  Cle. 
You do not think yourself so, or if you do, you think brown the best Madam.  Lin. 
I do indeed, think my beauty such, as may prejudice your Lordship, if you dwell on it; which gave me boldness, to interrupt your set Speech; lest you engage passed retreating;— our 〈◊〉 is to find the Princess.  Cle. 
And ours, to entertain those, who have nothing else to do.  Lin. 
How would you entertain us my Lord?  Cle. 
As young Gallants, use to treat fair Ladies; with love, and our best service.  Lin. 
I have no employment for so great a Servant as your Lordship, and for love, I understand it not.  Cle. 
That you may do is my ambition.  Lin. 
Nay, if you be come to ambition already! I guess your love will grow to such a Monster, in a moment, that I dread the thought on't.  Cle. 
You cut me off so short, you cannot apprehend, what I would say.  Lin. 
Therefore I do it, because I do not care to hear.  Cle. 
What have I done Madam, to merit this neglect from you?  Lin. 
In the behalf of all our sex, I am the chosen Champion, against all men, who do believe, all Women do admire 'um.  Cle. 
When shall I have leave to speak? that I may inform you better.  Lin. 
When I have done.  Cle. 
When will that be?  Lin. 
When I am gone.  Cle. 
How can you be informed in absence?  Lin. 
As much as I desire to know, I know already;— my good wishes shall attend your Lordship;— come Teretia; we may find the Princess in the other walk●.  Exeunt. Lon. 
Now Sir, how do you like this Lady's mettle?  Cle. 
Why well, I like her, and her humour very well.  Lon. 
You thought her a sure prize.  Cle. 
I did but hope so at the first, now I am sure of her, she is my own, if ever we do meet alone;— by this severity, she has cozened Teretia, and you, and confirmed me.  Lon. 
I must laugh, to think how thou art mistaken, in this innocent freedom virtuous women use, and would give a good sum, to see thee but converse a month or two, with persons of Honour, which I believe would reclaim thee, and fix those virtues, now most in a Chaos of wild actions.  Cle. 
I marry, if you could show me a woman, that would not be won; I would fancy 〈◊〉 delight, to pass away an hour or two, at ●●de times, but all that I do meet with, are mine, before I wish it; so that I am always forced to stand upon my guard amongst amongst.  Lon. 
That's no wonder, amongst those women you converse with;— shall I choose you a mistress? and if you get her! let the reproach be mine.  Cle. 
Shall she be worth my pains? if so! I will think on't, when I have time to throw away;— come will you go with me yet?  Lon. 
I'll stay here a while.  Cle. 
I'll go before then, and make ready for you.  Exit. Lon. 
What pity 'tis, such parts should be so drowned!—  
Though I resolve to quit, I'm guilty still  
If longer I do countenance his ill.  Enter to him, as in the Garden, Theodocia, Pandora, Lindamira, Teretia, and Ladies, and Silvander. Theodocia. 
Lonzartes I have been laughing at Lindamiras relation of Clearcus humour; she 〈◊〉 ●he has abused him his own way, in the 〈…〉 all honest women, whom he declares against.  Lon. 
The encounter indeed was pleasant, 〈◊〉 the success is beyond her guests! for the 〈◊〉▪ that her neglects, have dashed his hopes, by which he is grown confident, that her seeming scorns, were only to dazzle our eyes, while he doubts not to gain an interest.  Lin. 
I wish him joy my Lord, of his quick Victory, the next encounter, will decide this difference of Opinions.  Pan. 
But how dare you Lindamira, enter the lists of wit? with young Clearcus, who has the sharpest tongue in Syracuse.  Lin. 
There is no contest so easy, his whole discourse to women, is ever of love, or something like it! and does believe that all our souls, delight in nothing else, which makes me interrupt him still as he begins, and never hear him out.  Sil. 
Is that civil, to a person, of his Quality?  The. 
Is he not angry, when you slight him so?  Lin. 
No Madam, I am his mirth, and he is mine.  Lon. 
If Pandora would permit! I do fancy his conversion might be wrought by her, and his Eclipsed virtues, made to shine brighter than his vices do  Sil. 
'Twill be a noble undertaking Madam.  Lin. 
I wish he were within my cure.  Pan. 
We'll join our forces Lindamira, for I shall easily consent unto so good a work, as may reclaim so great a person as Clearcus; a man so near allied unto the Duke!— but how must this Charitable work be done?  Lon. 
If you Madam, will admit his visits? for a Month or two, the cure of course will follow; for he who never yet conversed with civil woman, will surely be concerned when he shall see the harmless mirth, that virtue does allow, to persons of your Quality!  Pan. 
So, I be obliged no further then to civil visits, his birth does require that for him, which I deny to no man.  Lin. 
Leave the rest to me.  The. 
How happy are you Cousin, that may dispose of yourself as you please! I must speak, and look, and move, as my Father, and the State directs me.  Pan. 
Great Princes indeed, are bound to some strict Rules, most Subjects understand not?  Lin. 
Your Highness complains without a cause, we hear the Duke will leave you to your own choice, only he will recommend.  The. 
When Parents recommend, 'tis so like command, it frights me to think whom it may be.  Pan. 
Now you are safe from the Corinthian, have no fear until you see occasion for it.  The 
I wish my dear Cousin, you would marry too, I should then like it better I now dread to put on that yoke, by all the World so much desired?  Pan. 
Will my being in the pound, get your Highness out off it? why would you have me run the hazard, to lose that happiness! now am sure of? by a single life▪— If mwn did ever appear in their own likeness! we might choose someone, amongst many, worth the having, but in our sights, they are always disguised in such shapes, and humours, as they believe we like best, and so cozen us, and themselves too; for if they make us unhappy, it seldom fails, but we make them so.  Lin. 
No Oracle ever spoke truer; I am of your Sect Madam, (as to matters of Faith!) yet I would gladly have a Husband, though it be dangerous to put my heart into another's keeping (And as my learned Author saves,) to give my freedom up, unto I know not whom! (nor ever can do, 〈◊〉 I have him)— this were a sad condition Madam▪ if we had not the same Arts to cozen them, that think to cozen us.  The. 
Would! could get a merry heart, like yours Lindamira.  Lin 
I'll present your Highness with a piece of mine, I have enough for both.  Enter Messenger. Messenger. 
Madam, The Prince calls for you;  The. 
I attend him, pray Cousin go with me to my Father.  Exeunt Ladies. Lon. 
A few such Excellent women would make this World a Paradise!— how have I walked in the dark, till now? how strangely been misled, by my affection to Clearcus? that have approved, and acted in all his ills; begun upon design, and led on, till custom has almost changed my nature, but will no more.  Enter Clearcus to him. Cle. 
How now Lonzartes? walking alone? take heed the Devil find thee not at leisure.  Lon. 
A greater than thyself can hardly find me.  Cle. 
Very gravely replied, if I mistake not, you are whimpering after some great lady, and now practising to play the fool wisely, to spend your time, adoring you know not who, nor why.  Lon. 
Thou are still i'th' wrong.  Cle. 
Let us meet then, at the old place to night.  Lon. 
That's a freedom, I shall never take more, you have converted me, beyond all the Homilies I ever read, you have made me ashamed of myself for being so long like you.  Cle. 
Oh Hypocrite! what new piece have you got? that I must not be trusted with; come tell me, and I'll cry up your Austere purpose, and rail at your conversion, as if I did believe it.  Lon. 
When you see me next in ill company, I am then that Hypocrite you mention.  Cle. 
Out upon these tender Consciences, they spoil more mirth, than they are worth; let old folks hear Homilies, while we enjoy the time we have, and not whine away our youth, on dreams of virtue, which signify we know not what.  Lon. 
Peace Clearcus, thou art not half so ill as thou appearest; but dost glory in talking worse, than thou canst be.  Cle. 
What should we talk of more than what we most delight in?  Lon. 
Of nothing less, because we often do delight in what we ought not own;— Is't not enough to offend the Gods through frailty, which perverse nature does invite us to; but we must provoke Heaven, beyond sense, and appetite, by our discourse, as if we studied to defy those Powers, we ought to tremble at.  Cle. 
I hate Hypocrisy.  Lon. 
And I abhor to aggravate my crimes, by such unnecessary boastings, as thy wild brain delights in; when I offend I am sorry for it, dost thou all honesty despise, all virtue slight?  Cle. 
How Lonzartes, will you confine honesty, and virtue, to the fruition of one woman only? Fie, what a scandal is this to mankind, as if there were no honesty, nor virtue but in such chaste breasts as yours? what an affront to this good company, pray speak Gentlemen, is any here of his opinion? can you Lonzartes show me one young man, that looks as he were guilty? or any so old, who would be thought so weak?— Is this a fit design, to set up your Title to the Dukedom?  Lon. 
I see this is not the hour for your Conversion.  Cle. 
Nor shall ever live to see that hour, I hope.  Lon. 
Nor you I fear, ever live to taste, and relish the TRUE felicity obtained, by such a conquest on thyself; but I will pray for thee, and thy conversion.  Cle. 
I had rather your Lordship were at jerusalem, then see that day of my conversion; what have I done Lonzartes? to deserve such ill from you, do not provoke me to a revenge.  Lon. 
Revenge, for what?  Cle. 
Can you ask for what? suppose the gods should hear your prayers, and turn my heart, how miserable a man were I, how should I spend my time, for forty years to come; Is it not enough to forsake your cause, but you must seduce me too? Lonzartes, if you pray for me, I shall curse you heartily; I dare stay no longer with him.  Exit Clearcus. Lon. 
If this brave man this humour could expel, His virtues would his vices far excel.  
I have put on this Cloak of wantonness only to avoid being thought a serious man, lest the Duke grow jealous of my pretensions to his Crown;— while the Duke is civil and I am safe;— he shall be so too?— But if I find designs against me; I have Friends, and force enough, to gain my right by this;— Oh but Theodocia does unman me quite;— when I look on her, all these high thoughts do vanish, and I become the humblest creature in the Court:—  
I have no Title, that I ere shall own,  
Unless she deign to raise me to the Throne.   

THE SECOND ACT.  Enter Lonzartes alone, Clearcus harkening at the Door. Lon. 
OH Cloris, Cloris! what strange unwonted pains I feel? what fears? what new disease conceals my blood?— if it be love, 'twill not offend the gods, because my soul does now rejoice to find, Beauty and Virtue so divine, that both may be well worshipped at one Shrine.  Clearcus' chaps him hard on the Shoulder. Cle. 
Are you talking in your sleep Lonzartes? or is it some divine meditation, thus transports you?  Lon. 
You are too rude Clearcus.  Cle. 
I cry you mercy Sir, you can be angry than I see; I thought your conversion, had set you above such passions, as we wicked men are subject too.  Lon. 
I do confess thou didst make me start, and speak hastily, but I am not angry, nor can be with thee.  Embraces him. Cle. 
I'll try your temper presently,— Oh! Beauty and Virtue so Divine, both may be worshipped in one shrine; Ha, ha, ha.  Lon. 
What of this, you heard me repeat an old Song.  Cle. 
An old Song to a new Tune Lonzartes: dost thou pray for my Conversion this way? must I get a Cloris to sigh after?— as thou dost;— I have heard all, and have observed thee too, I and do guests who Cloris is,— come, tell me quickly, that way to oblige me to silence; for if by my own skill, I do discover her, I'll lay thee open to the World, tell me who Cloris is, lest I tell thee; Adieu.  Exit. Lon. 
How can he discovee that I love, when I know it not yet myself?— Yet I may admire her, and by my adoration of her virtues—  
Be by them, from all meaner passions freed,  
When this new virtue, shall my vice exceed.  Exit. Enter Geta. Geta. 
What the Devil ails my Lord? his wont mirth is changed into hey●oes, and twenty times a day, he sends me on sleeveless Errants, that he may be alone; I think Lord Clearcus will prove the wisest man at last;— I have been five times this morning to inquire, if the Princess be in health! if she be stirring, or if near ready! if she go to the Temple!— And after dinner I must inquire, if she have dined! if she comes forth in public! if she ride abroad; and thus twenty times a day, he tires me, with these silly Errants, when I might ask them all at once, and save much labour; I'll try if I can find some way to contract these Embassies;— 'tis well for my Lord, that his man is wiser than himself.  Exit. Enter Silvander with Lindamira, and her Maid. Sil. 
Do not my looks Lindamira enough express what I would say?  Lin. 
Yes, to me, who do discern your passion thus suppressed, more clear, then by those loud noises, which some Lovers most delight in.  Sil. 
But how shall I be assured, this is not Raliery?  Lin. 
Cannot you judge by my looks, as well as I by yours? what kind of security do you require? I have no Citizens that will be bound for my good behaviour!  Sil. 
A serious word or two, with a kind look confirmed, will secure me against the World.  Lin 
Will this look serve? and I am yours, suffice for words? with this hand given from my heart! engage beyond your wish.  Sil. 
It does, may I be—  Lin. 
Nay, no strange lines I beseech you, make me not jealous by professing more than I expect.  Sil. 
I am confirmed.  He Kisses her hand. Lin. 
I shall try your temper, if my merry humour hold!  Sil. 
'Tis that free Innocence, I most adore.  Lin. 
And that I can afford enough off, at an easy rate.  Enter Clearcus to them, Silvander goes off. Lin. 
Your Lordship was going another way, pray let not me divert you, my lodging is far off.  Cle. 
Madam, I have long sought an opportunity to kiss your hands there.  Lin. 
You may do it here, and save the labour of going so far for nothing.  Cle. 
Do you call that honour nothing, which I do prize above the World? and would give all my interest on Earth, to purchase one kiss of your fair hand, by a free consent.  Lin 
The World is little beholding to your Lordship, for so low a value, that will give all your interest on Earth, for a kiss of my hand, and this I must in civility, look, as if I did believe.  Cle. 
I'll swear it Madam.  Lin. 
That's as easily done, as said, but I am hard of Faith.  Cle. 
How shall I obtain more credit?  Lin. 
I'll show you a short way; bring me a conveyance of half your Land, and you shall have two kisses of my hand, three if you please; and as you like your Market, you may have more, for the other half of your Estate! and this is much cheaper than to give all the World for such an honour.  Cle. 
Why do you mock me? who truly love, and honour you above all women! by those 〈◊〉 eyes I do.  Lin. 
How can I believe it? when I know you 〈◊〉 thus to every woman that you meet.  Cle. 
May my hopes ne'er prosper, if you are not the only object of my heart.  Lin. 
No touching good my Lord, my Affairs calls me away, I must be gone.  He proffers to kiss her hand. Cle. 
And I must wait on you home Madam.  Lin. 
'llle rather stay here this Twelvemonth, then give your Lordship that trouble.  Cle. 
Am I such a Monster, in the opinion of all Women, as you make me?  Lin. 
I must take care you make not me one;— Oh happy deliverance!  Enter to them, Theodocia, and Pandora, and Silvander. Cle. 
This is such a piece of nicety, as I ne'er met before;— these are no company for me.  Exit. The. 
Stay (learcus, I would speak with you;— my Cousin Pandora tells me, you Court Lindamira, which herself does not much deny.  Cle. 
I am practising I must confess, how to talk to Ladies, and have learned some Speeches to that purpose, whereof Lindamira has had her share.  The. 
You have mocked her then! and intent her only for your 〈◊〉!  He makes a leg. Lin 
Methinks his silence, and that leg, shows more love to me, than I know what to do with.  Sil. 
Excellent Girl! how she plays with his wanton humour!  Aside. Enter to them Lonzartes. Cle. 
Nay, if Lonzartes fall on me too? I shall be overwhelmed with wisdom.  Lon. 
Now there is some hope of him, his look is Civilised already.  Pan. 
Are you not pleased Clearcus? to see the whole Court concerned for you? to see yourself so valued, methinks it should stir up the Noble Blood of your great Ancestors, to set you on to such actions, as may outshine their stories, and not lose one day more, in your wild ways.  Cle. 
Madam, Your Language, and your Looks, agree with your great soul; I can be proud to be so taught, when the Princess Theodocia, and you direct, 'twere great stupidity to show neglect;— but in my Opinion Madam, one of a Family is enough to be a Saint;— 'twould take from great Lonzartes credit, and render his conversion no rarity; if I should become virtuous too.  The. 
Pandora, and I, are much obliged to you, for your good opinion of us, I wish all our Sex were so too.  Cle. 
My opinion and my practice, differ very much Madam; I do honour virtue in your Sex, as much as any man; but my Talent lies the other way, Lonzartes does enough Illustrate the Platonnick Name, and Eminently maintain, that high Serassick flame, which is above my reach.  Lon. 
Tell me now Clearcus, is there not more relish in this Conversation? then with your Getinas, and your Angelinas'!— that blush shows well, there is some hopes of grace in that blush  Cle. 
Hold your prattling, my conversion does not belong to you.  Lon. 
I hope I may direct you to a Lady, that will work that wonder.  Cle. 
Hold your peace then, till we be alone.  The. 
We'll be gone Pandora, and not hinder so good a work;— you shall neither of you go with us,— but if you please Clearcus, Lindamira may walk with you a little longer.  Cle. 
No Madam, I have enough of her already, she out-wits me; we shall ne'er agree.  Lin. 
I have got credit enough for a young Soldier, by my honourable Retreat, from so hot a charge.  Exeunt Silvander, and Ladies. Lon 
Let us now pursue our Argument, for thy Conversion.  Cle. 
It comes on a pace;— what a fine Gentleman are you grown, since the Spirit of Chastity has possessed you? and I must live chaste, that I may have the Honour, and Felicity to be in love!— to be a fool! to entangle myself in 〈◊〉 that I shall ne'er get out of! I'll none of it.  Lon. 
Let my old Friendship so far prevail, that on my request you will sometimes converse with Pandora, if thy visits do engage her to undertake thy cure! and she do work that Miracle! she 〈◊〉 value what herself has made worthy of her self; for so wilt thou be, if thy wand'ring fancy, were once fixed?  Cle. 
So then all this bustle, is to make me in love; though you know, I have been a thousand times in love already.  Lon. 
I Clearcus, I know thy thousands, but I would have the● once in love.  Cle. 
I never will be mad, as you are; yet to give you, and the World satisfaction in this point; I will condemn myself to one months' penance, and make experiment to look, and talk as idly with Pandora, as you do with your Divinest Cloris!— If I were sure Pandora were not to be won; I could fancy a pretty kind of pastime, by raising my desires to hopes of what I cannot have! but I could never meet a woman yet, that was impregnable; and my nature is not capable of being converted, by any that I can conquer;— Pray Sup at my Chamber this night.  Lon. 
I will not fail, if you will go with me unto Pandora?—  
And visit her, while this good motion's warm,  
Against all your fears, I'll fit you with a charm.  Cle. 
I go.  Exeunt. Enter Pandora with Lindamira and Ladies in her Chamber, and Silvander. Pan. 
Lindamira you must be my second, they will be two, to one else.  Lin. 
Gladly Madam, I cannot wish a gentler Enemy, then him that thinks he has me at his mercy.  Pan. 
But if you be over-sharp upon him, you may hinder the great work, we undertake! and make him hate all honest Women for our sakes.  Lin. 
I shall use him with more Art, and lead him on with hopes, that all our Sex do scramble for him;— if I can fit his Fancy, and his Wit, T'le engage him in a concern for you, and then manage my young Gallant to my will, till I confute his common places, so often urged to the prejudice of Ladies, I cannot fancy better sport, then to see him mad in love with you Madam.  Pan. 
The gods forbid, I would not cure him at that rate, for my own sake, and his; lest that prove a greater evil, than he now has; I shall be very careful, to give him no encouragement, for thoughts of that nature, my undertaking is not beyond a common civility, as to all others of his Rank.  Lin. 
That will do it, if I mistake not;— and catch you both I hope,— here he comes?  Enter Lonzartes, and Clearcus. Lon. 
Madam, I have brought my Friend to kiss your hand.  Cle. 
Thus far Madam, in order to my engagement, I have given you the trouble of the first visit, I ever made against my will.  Pan. 
Your Lordship, does me honour; came you now from Court?  Cle. 
Yes Madam, and left the Princess Theodocia in great compliments with her kind Father, who has now declared against the proud Corinthian, and given Theodocia her free choice where she please.  Pan. 
You tell me News, beyond my hopes, this will raise the Princess drooping Spirits again; I wonder she is not here by this time.  Lon. 
The Duke and she, are not yet parted Madam;— how now Lindamira, are you tongue-tied? no welcome for my Friend, to encourage him to like of civil company;— You look as if you feared to lose your Gallant.  Cle. 
No, no, she knows she has too fast hold of my heart, to part so easily.  Lin. 
●Tis Honour enough for me, to be in the number of your Martyrs Sir.  She Sighs. Pan. 
How long have you two been acquainted?  Lin. 
Ever since last night Madam.  She Sighs. Pan. 
And dost thou sigh already?  Lin. 
'Tis only to give you warning, by my harms.  Pan. 
I thank your care, but I am armed against the World.  Cle. 
That's good News Lonzartes, there is some hope, she has made firm resolves against Wedlock; that I may assault her with security.—  Aside. Lon. 
You may, you may.  Cle 
Madam, You speak, as if you held mankind at a defiance.  Pan. 
By way of Marriage, I do, but I can value all men that I see worthy.  Cle. 
He must be a bold man, who does design beyond the favours you allow, but have you made vows against marriage Madam?  Pan. 
No vows, but such resolves, as are unchangeable.  Lon. 
You are severe to men.  Lin. 
If all Women were of your opinion Madam? how should the World be Peopled?  Cle. 
I marry Madam, that was well urged.  Pan. 
I thought Lindamira you would have been on my side.  Lin. 
So I am, when you are in the right, this is our common cause; Suppose you bring these two Lords, and they bring twenty more, to be of your judgement, and this Heresy should spread; what will become of us, who think of nothing else but Marriage?  Lon. 
She tells you true Madam, when her own concern is at stake, you may excuse her.  Pan. 
I do, and will make good my argument alone.  Cle. 
Never to Marry Madam?  Pan. 
Never my Lord, is my full resolve.  Cle. 
You are the happiest, and the wisest Lady living! and I the joyfullest man, if you'll permit me to adore you at this distance, for I am of your own opinion Madam.  Lin. 
Two fanatics well met.  Pan 
So long as your respects be free from love, my house is open to you.  Cle. 
You are all witnesses, that this Lady does adopt me her avowed Gallant, on the conditions before mentioned:— you give me leave Madam to talk of love, and to carry up this jest, as high, as he who really does love.  Pan 
I do, so it be ever in Public; all private visits, and all whisper are excepted.  Cle. 
'Tis enough Madam;— This is a pretty kind of Entertainment, I never thought of: Lonzartes thou art in the right, this will be sport beyond my hope.  Lon. 
But how does Lindamira like, to see her new Gallant, thus taken from her?  Cle. 
'Tis her own fault, she might have fixed me another way, if she had been wife.  Pan 
Indeed Lindamira, I thought not of your concern, and did conclude too rashly, but I will use my interest on your behalf.  Lin 
'Twill not be needful Madam, I know all his professions to you, are meant to me.  Cle 
Very prettily contrived,— This is a new kind of wit▪ I never heard of; so than you are to love me, in spite of your teeth, and I you, in spite of mine; what will this come to at last?  Lon. 
Mirth man, all the year a constant mirth:— Is not this better than spending your time in a smoky house, with your old Acquaintance?  Silvander, and Lindamira do converse while the others talk. Cle. 
I cannot tell you that, till I have tried this, as long as I have the other.  Lin. 
Pray my Lord, do not persuade your Friend, all this earnest is a jest, I allow you as much mirth as you please, so the conclusion be serious.  Pan. 
We leave the success unto the Fates;— Clearcus may in time have pity on you Lindamira, he does not yet believe, you are in earnest.  Cle. 
Nor ever shall do Madam, till I see her heart break, and then 'twill be too late.  Lin. 
He dissembles well, for so young a Scholar Madam.  Lon. 
We have done all well me thinks, and now 'tis time that we retire.  Cle 
How soon may I make my next visit to you Madam?  Pan. 
As often as you please my Lord, at public hours.  Exeunt Silvander, and two Lords. Lin. 
How did I perform my part Madam?  Pan. 
You fell too soon into your humour, he sees you mock him.  Lin. 
That's all I aim at, he has too much wit to be abused; my only business is to let him see, that he cannot cozen me;— I believe you will see this Scene changed, at his next visit, if I have any skill, you will be troubled with him.  Pan 
I am armed at all points, against all men, and him most.  Enter Theodocia, and Ladies. The. 
Oh Cousin! I am freed from all my fears, and come to rejoice with you.  Pan. 
I have rejoiced already Madam, and have begun a Scene of mirth, will hold us long;— Had your Highness come a little sooner, you had sound the late Convert Lonzartes, and his Friend Clearcus here, who is become my a vowed Gallant, and looks as if he liked our company already.  The. 
Then you have hopes to cure him;— Pray order it so, as I may come to your next meeting, my heart is now so light, that I could play with any thing;— Can I have no part in your Comedy?  Lin 
For two reasons, your Highness can only be a looker on 'tis petty Treason to make love to you, though in jest; and then your beauty is too dangerous to be dallied with; these be edge-tools, too sharp for us to play with.  The. 
Why may not Princes participate in such innocent mirth? we make stricter Rules than need; true virtue will shine through such thin clouds without a prejudice, and be above the reach of vile tongues.  Pan. 
I Madam, if you could show a rule, to distinguish between Innocence and Gild;— But we often see that Angelical virtues are aspersed, by malicious tongues, and no quality exempt, from rude censures.  Lin. 
I differ in opinion, Princes may enjoy harmless mirth, as freely as we; to be too much reserved, does look like disguise.  The. 
I would be so merry Lindamira. as should defy all scandal, and with an open face justify it to the world; to wear always a stiff-state face, is intolerable.  Pan 
Private persons may be bold that way, when few eyes observe,— But Princes are 〈◊〉 on Pirameds', for all to see, an ● imitate.  The. 
You shall not fright me from your mirth, with this grave lecture, are they not, both my near Relations, whom you endeavour to reclaims why may not I share in so worthy a design?— I fear Lindamira she doubts lest I may gain her Gallant from her.  Lin 
She may well be jealous, if your Highness undertake him, I shall have small hopes, if you two quarrel for him.  The. 
Why Lindamira? is Silvander vanished?  Lin. 
No Madam, the more Trophies I can fairly get by Victories on others, will raise his Conquest higher, who gains me from the rest.  The. 
Thou art safe, and mayest say any thing, Silvander is thy security against all scandal, though you carry it thus unconcerned, the secret spread.  Lin. 
'Tis time it should do so, now we do own  
Our love, 'tis fit the secret should be known.  
Your Highness may assist, while you look on,  
Though only we, the active part do own.  The. 
Let us retire to council then.  Exeunt. Enter Teretia, and Geta. Ter. 
What is thy business honest Geta? How does Lonzartes thy brave Lord?  Geta. 
My Lord is in good health of body Madam, his brains are only out of order.  Ter. 
How meanest thou Geta, has he got a blow on his head?  Geta. 
Only some fumes from his heart Madam, makes his head addle, 'tis called the Spleen of late, and much in fashion; his Lordship does desire to know the Princess mind this morning, what she means to do all day?  Ter. 
This will be a hard question to the Princess fasting, why would he know all this now?  Geta. 
Because he has some great affairs for me to manage, and cannot spare me to ask, so often as I use to do  Ter. 
Of what nature, be thy particular queries Geta?  Geta. 
He would know how she slept last night? in what health now? by what hour she will be dressed? when to her devotions? and then, where she walks this morning? and if she dine in public? then how she intends to pass her time till night? else I must come twenty times, for what you may at once dispatch me.  Ter. 
And does Lonzartes send thee, to inquire all this at once?  Geta. 
These women are so silly, they Aside. cannot reach a deep design;— No but he does every day make me trouble myself, and every body that I meet, to ask these questions severally, which I would do at once, to show him I am a man of quick dispatch.  Ter. 
Oh! is that the matter? I can fit thee with one answer to all these;— Tell thy Lord, the Princess did take cold last night, and will keep her bed all day.  Geta 
I like it well, and wish her Highness would do so this month.  Ter. 
Out Traitor, I'll make thy Lord brain thee for that wish.  Geta 
Why Madam? I meant no harm, 'twas but to save you the trouble, and me the same questions to morrow, and so on till Doomsday, I think.  Ter 
Well Sirrah, for this time, ' le not complain of you, this Jest shall excuse your knavery.  Geta. 
This will be a play day for me, I like this lying a Bed well.  Exeunt.  

THE THIRD ACT.  Enter Lonzartes, and Clearcus. Cle. 
TEll me then who Cloris is?  Lon. 
I dare not trust thee yet.  Cle. 
I will know now, or break all Friendship with you.  Lon. 
I swear I must not yet.  Enter to them Theodocia, Pandora, Lindamira, Teretia, and Ladies, and Silvander. Cle. 
Then look to yourself, lest I discover Cloris.  The. 
Where did you leave my Father Lonzartes?  Lon. 
I have not seen the Prince to day Madam.  The. 
I was told, that you were walking with him just now.  Cle. 
That may well be Madam, for his brains do crow of late;— do ye see how he stands;— Lonzartes the Princess speaks to ye.  Lon. 
To me, does your Highness command me anything?  Silvander, and Lindamira entertain themselves in whisper. Cle. 
Did not I tell you Madam, that his brains are turned he neither hears, nor sees of late;— The Idea of his Seraffique love, takes him wholly up, from all converse with us mortals.  Lon. 
Hold your prating, or I shall be angry.  Pan. 
What has made you so grave of late Lonzartes? all your wont mirth is gone.  Lon. 
No man is always in good humour Madam.  Cle. 
He's in love Madam, on my knowledge, o'er head and ears in love.  Pan. 
In love, Lonzartes, I thought you had not been at leisure, to be in love;— 'tis your fault Clearcus, that have not counselled your Friend better.  Cle. 
Thus am ● chid for your folly; who reject all my counsels, and refuse all my approved Antidotes, which do preserve me against that Serpent (you call love) while he conversed with me, he was safe Madam.  Lon. 
Thou hast fooled enough Clearcus, the Princess and all the company are weary of it:— If your Highness allow him this freedom, he will grow troublesome.  The. 
Is it Love Lonzartes? or is Clearcus only merry with you?  Lon. 
Your Highness▪ knows him too well, 〈◊〉 credit all he says this way, he is at this time, very angry that I have chid him for his lewd life, and have with-drawn myself from his ill company▪ which he imputes to my being in love.  Cle 
I say he is in love, most seriously in love● shall I unmask this grave Reformado, and 〈◊〉 you the Lady now?  The. 
If Lonzartes be content, I would gladly see her, whom he thinks worthy of his heart.  Cle. 
No matter for his consent Madam so you like it.— And thus I begin my trial;— By your good leave Lady— 'tis not here;— nor is it this;— nor is it you Lady?  He holds them aed to Lonzartes, one by one. Lin. 
I lament the loss of such an honour.  Lon. 
Thou art become a pretty fool Clearcus, dost thou not observe how all the Court do laugh at thee?  Cle. 
Yes, and shall make them laugh at you, 〈◊〉 have done; if Pandora will make the next trial.  Pan 
I am content to try, what this will come to.  Cle. 
Now Sir, have at you;— 'tis not your good fortune neither Madam.  The. 
How can you make Lonzartes an amends, for all this abuse.  Cle. 
I will give him present satisfaction, if your Highness will permit me to bring him to you?  The. 
To me! think you Lonzartes is in love with me?  Cle. 
'tis a Cloris in the clouds, one much above his reach, which you only are Madam.  The. 
With all my heart, I shall be proud to own his conversion, as a Trophy of my honour.  Cle. 
See if his guide do not make him avoid the trial;— stop him there;— Lonzartes the Princess calls you.  Lonzartes is going out. Lon. 
I'll cut thy throat.  Cle. 
He threatens me,— guilty I'll 〈◊〉;— now Madam, do you see no 〈◊〉 in his face?— no change yet?— speak all,— you are all assistants in this Judgement.  Lonzartes throws him off in anger. Lon. 
It will disturb a Saint, to be thus subject to the fancies of a fool.  The. 
Be not disturbed Lonzartes, you take this in earnest, which we look on as a jest, only to pass the time; Clearcus has more wit, then to be in earnest.  Lon. 
I hope your Highness will not prefer his follies, before my professions, who disclaim such 〈◊〉 presumption.  The. 
If you turn this jest to earnest Lonzartes, I shall believe Clearcus;— I take it now as R●llier●;— I wonder Lindamira you get not hold of some young lover's heart?  Lin 
I have twenty in store Madam, more than I know what to do with.  Pan 
Then you allow as many lovers, as you can get, and mean to choose the best.  Lin 
I think 'tis credit for women to be admired and honoured by worthy men; it shows a value, to move so many to a general Esteem, and must be the woman's 〈◊〉 if she deserve a censure.  The. 
You are in the right Lindamira, men may design, but women may destroy, faster than they can 〈◊〉; my thanks unto Clearcus for our mirth.  Ale. 
Mirth ought to be our business Madam.—  
The angry gods affords cross Fates to give  
Us 〈◊〉 enough, and troubles while we live.  Exeunt Lonzartes and Clearcus●everally severally. Enter the Prince and Lords, who meet the Ladies going off. Prince. 
We were now discoursing of your Gallant Pandora, have you hopes to work this miracle?  Pan. 
This Lady and I, have ventured our credits on this conversion Sir.  Prince. 
To reclaim him, were a good work; but suppose he fall in love with either of you.  Pan. 
At his peril that, let Lindamira look to herself, I am safe.  Lin. 
I have a sure retreat Sir, 'tis but seeming to comply, and 〈◊〉 give o'er; for he can love none that he can conquer, and I am resolved rather to be vanquished, than not to be rid of him when I see my time.  Sil. 
Could all her Beauty with my love expire  
Her flowing Wit, would still create new fire  [Aside. Enter to them Clearcus and Lonzartes. Prince. 
You two I know, come now from exercising of your troops.  Cle. 
No Sir, we went hence just now; I wish my Troop hereto guard me.  Prince. 
Have you an Enemy in view Clearcus?  Cle. 
I have many Sir, that have rob'd me of my peace; I cannot sleep of late, but have a thousand fancies, which do set my brains on fire.  Prince. 
Take heed it prove not love.  Cle. 
That is the danger Sir, for if Pandora do keep her resolve for single life; I may be in love; for I do feel strange alterations that I know not what to make of.  Lin. 
Have you no affection left for me my Lord? can you so soon forget your last night's professions?  Cle. 
Now Sir, you see how I am assaulted, I shall be pulled in pieces presently.  Prince. 
Si'vander and I, will secure you from Lindamira.  Cle. 
If I were assured you could Sir, I should like her wit, and humour well,— but I fear,— if I should be in earnest, she would be so too.  Lin. 
You see his inclination is for me Madam, so that what ever he shall say to you hereafter, is meant to me.  Cle. 
Nor so, nor so, sweet Lady, I do respect Pandora, above all her Sex; you throw out hoocks to catch young Gallants, the neglects those are laid for her, that's my danger.  Prince 
What riddle is this Clearcus? dost thou desire, that thy desires may not be answered?  Cle 
Yes Sir, from some persons, for if my love be returned, all ends in the fruition, (as most Examples show,) But if Pandora keep her resolve for single life, than I can raise my fancy while I live▪ to adoration of her beauty, and that virtue, with a continual delight, which will last while I last.  The. 
You are then my Lord, the happiest lover living, for you will find my Cousin, just as you wish.  Pan. 
Pray Madam, answer not too fast for me, for if I find Clearcus a person of such Noble Nature, beyond what I did ever hope to meet in man; I may change my Opinion of men for his sake; and therefore 'tis best to find some other sport, lest we destroy each other.  He starts. Cle. 
Look you now? I am Treypand.  The. 
Start not Clearcus, she but mocks you, you are both engaged for this month to Entertain us, and yourselves, no going off now.  Pan. 
I shall not break Covenants.  Cle. 
Nor I Madam, though I do sometimes remind you of your resolve against Marriage, whereon depends my bliss, secure me but of that, and I am ever yours.  Pan 
I shall endeavour what I can, to give you that satisfaction  Cle. 
I kiss your fair hand on that word, which has given new life to my doubtful heart, and now I do defy Lonzartes gravity, to put his heart in a more loving dress, than mine shall be hereafter.  Prince. 
If Lonzartes can love too, my wonder ceases.  The. 
He is my servant Sir, and has a chief part in the Comedy.  Prince. 
I like your pastime well, but me thinks Lonzartes looks as if he were compelled unto his part, and will do it scurvily.  Lin. 
That's the sport Sir, and will afford the more variety.  Lon. 
I shall be glad Sir, if I might be excused.  The. 
By no means Servant, what an affornt is this, that I must beg your favour, in the face of the whole Court to own me?  Prince. 
You must not be so grave Lonzartes, all is for our mirth.  Cle. 
Now Sir, have not I done your work for you?  Lon. 
Would thou wert hanged, hold thy peace.  Cle. 
Give me better words, or I'll talk aloud.  Lon. 
Was ever man thus hampered, between jest and earnest?  Lin. 
They are comparing notes in private; there's Treachery in their faces; I'll play no more.  Prince. 
When begins the love Clearcus? this is only talking of it.  Cle. 
It is begun already Sir; if I had not valued this Excellent Lady above the World; I had not gain this care to secure my interest to a perpetuity.  Lin. 
Madam, you are not to believe a word of this, for he has with the same grave face, sworn the same to me but Yesterday.  Cle. 
That was in jest Madam, but now every action of my life, shall justify each syllable I utter unto you.  Pan. 
I shall endeavour to believe it my Lord, and yet allow you the same Christian liberty with Lindamira, and the rest, as you had before.  Cle. 
Madam, you speak, as though you did not value my respects, now my whole soul is set to serve, and honour you alone.  Pan. 
I must confess, I cannot change my faith, so fast as you do your discourse;— And then as I remember my lesson, is to keep my distance, lest I lose my lover.  Cle. 
True Madam, as to comply, but you are to see, and credit my ambitious love, and to admit it with the same Esteem, I serve you.  Pan. 
How can I do that, and not return you love for love? and than you will despise me; pray my Lord, at your next visit, bring my part in writing, that I may not err in it.  Prince. 
She is in the right Clearcus, you now seem to seek such contradictions, as all the Court will laugh at; consult with Lonzartes against your next visit.  Exit Prince and Train. Lon. 
If he will follow my advice, he may do well Sir;— now we are alone, tell me what crotchets next? prithee make me understand what thou wouldst have Pandora do?  Cle. 
I think you were best release me the residue of my month, that I may go seek my wits, where I last left them;— must I see none of my old Friends, until this month be over?  Lon. 
If you consider your promise, not see one of them.  Cle. 
Then shall I be lost, if those preservatives be all forbid me; I do find already love will be Predominant.  Lon. 
The better for you if it be;— let us now talk seriously;— suppose Pandora may be won, can you fancy a happiness on Earth, beyond having her?  Cle. 
Yes, I do fancy that having twenty, is better than any one in Christendom.  Lon. 
Thou dost not love then, else, that one beloved, has more variety than a thousand.  Cle. 
Make but that good, I'll marry her to morrow.  Lon. 
You think then she is already at your dispose.  Cle. 
When she once sees that I am in earnest, she will be, what I will have her; and the truth is Lonzartes, I do like her best of all I ever talked with, and have great fear that I shall be like other men, who never value what they have, which makes me cover what I cannot get.  Lon. 
Suppose some other do obtain her, while you are thus long resolving?  Cle. 
Nay, I am resolved no other shall ever have her.  Lon. 
And you resolve for her too.  Cle. 
Yes, she cannot in Honour engage to any, while I pretend.  Lon. 
Art thou turned fool, to think thus? be more serious, or thou wilt be despised.  Cle. 
Why do you not allow me some relief then? to live a whole month honest, will put my blood into a flame; I have tempted all I meet, and all within these Walls prove honest.  Lon. 
By your own Experience then, you will find that Courts are Nurseries of virtue, and are only scandalised by such vild persons, as would have the clearest innocence aspersed, that their own guilts might be no wonder;— you find few virtuous persons, amongst Centurers.  Cle. 
That's true, but take heed Lonzartes, you do not lead me into snares that will destroy me, for I already find some inclinations towards Pandora, which I am ashamed to own, lest I be laughed at.  Lon. 
You have reason, for there can none of us believe thee.  Cle. 
You have made me a fine Gentleman in a few days;— if Pandora be of your mind, adieu to your Philosophical love.  Lon. 
I hope thou art too fast to free thyself.—  
Thou playest with flames which undiscovered bourn,  
Until they do thy heart to Ashes turn.  Exit Lonzartes. Cle. 
Did ever man betray himself as I have done? by putting setters on in jest, which already are become so fixed, I cannot shake 'em off; but must humbly beg to be allowed to worship that Divine Nature I so much despised in virtuous women, and must now confess:—  
If I do neither Faith, nor Favour find,  
The god of Love is Just, though he be blind.  Exit. Not●, that all the Play through, when Silvander and Lindamira 〈…〉 Enter Theodocia and Lindamira. Lin. 
If your Highness do consider Lonzartes' Worth, and his great Birth, as it deserves; whose Ancestor was not many Age's since, by yours put by this Dukedom, on a nice point. (as I have heard;) so that to me Lonzartes' love, looks like a Divine direction, to his Restauration.  The. 
I am of Pandora's mind for single life, and have as small a value for that idle passion you call love, as she.  Lin. 
Your Highness may as well judge what they do in China, as guests at our Felicities that love?— I can kiss the ground that my Silvander treads on, with more reash, than all other joys can bring me.  The. 
You have high fancies that lead you on to hopes, which you may never find.  Lin. 
These hopes are more delightful than an Age of dull life without them; if your Highness did converse as much with me, as with Pandora, I should convert you.  The 
Why do you not then change her severity against men?  Lin. 
I had not the Honour to be known to her, before her heart was set another way; but yet I'll try what I can do.  The. 
I wish Silvander may answer your expectation Lindamira; but if such honour, and such bliss accompany your loves, why thus long carried on i'th' dark? and why not yet avowed?  Lin. 
'tis now avowed unto the Duke, though I took time to know my Gallant, before I did admit his love, and on long trial found his silent looks, did speak more truth, than such loud noises, as most passions make  The. 
You praise Silvander as if you meant to sell him.  Lin. 
He is no Prince Madam, and is therefore safe from you.  The. 
The less safe, if I so pleased;— do you believe his virtue, and his love so great, that I could not win him from you for a Friend of mine?  Lin. 
I do, and shall not think him a loss, who can be won from me, by the greatest Princess of the World?  The. 
If I could once see such a man, I might change my opinion.  Lin 
Why don't you try Lonzartes?  The. 
He is too much concerned to be played with;— you dare not venture your fine man then?  Lin. 
I dare, and do desire it withal my heart, and do voluntarily engage, not to work against your Highness.  The. 
And I am resolved to try his faith to you, it may cure Lonzartes to see himself neglected, when another's chosen, though but in jest, for I can pity, though I do not love him.  Lin. 
And 'tis my desire to have Silvanders' faithful love, made Eminent by this temptation.  Enter Lonzartes, and Silvander to them. The. 
In what humour left you Clearcus 〈◊〉 Lords?  Lon. 
In such as does become his greatness Madam.  The. 
Most brave men are often puffed up with vain glory, that does Eclipse those virtues, which themselves do over-value.  Lin. 
Your Highness is severe to men, but all are not so vain.  The. 
Most are, when we do value them too much;— yet I confess I am well pleased, when I find men worthy my Esteem.  Lin. 
How does that appear? when your Highness does despise mankind by your resolves against them.  The. 
To show how much you are mistaken; unpin this Jewel;— wear this Silvander for my sake; I'll own it to the World, that I do value men of Worth.  Sil. 
Madam, I understand not what this kind of favour means; I hope your Highness does not choose me for mirth.  The. 
Do you Silvander raise mirth from my Favour?— come with me Lindamira;— I do command you to stand near us within hearing;— I will not run the hazard of any Censure, by this trial to satisfy my curiosity concerning lovers, such high Romantic lovers, who soar above the reach of all temptations.  Lin. 
I shall obey you Madam, though I desire it not.  [Exeunt Ladies. The Men stand amazed. Sil. 
Can you guests Lonzartes, what this tends to?  Lon. 
'Tis a Riddle far beyond my understanding.  [Exit Lonzartes. Lindamira Reenters to Silvander. Lin. 
Wake, wake Silvander, the Sun shines bright upon thee; Theodocia dotes on thy virtues, and will advance thy youth, much faster than thy own wishes can propose.  Sil. 
How Lindamira, have you so mean thoughts of me?  Lin. 
So high thoughts, why may not the Princess neglect the Corinthian for you? such things have been in story.  Sil. 
You speak, as if you wished it.  Lin. 
Can I wish you well, and not applaud it?  Sil. 
You cannot fancy me a greater curse, unless your own heart be turned against me.  Lin. 
The Princess desires your Company in the next Room; I can stay no longer.  [Exit Lindamira. Sil. 
I have so much to think on, that I know not what to say;— the Princess unexpected favours, with Lindamira's no concern, begets such wonder, as does amaze me— I will not go;— and yet I must, or make myself Ridiculous, by judging what I cannot guests at.  Exit. Enter Lonzartes. Lon. 
Have I thus long adored the Princess? and still approached her with the same trembling, I draw near the Altar, for this scorn at last,— before my face, to court a man, she knows engaged unto another, a man of so much lower quality than I; this I confess does make my Faith stagger;— Silvander was as much surprised as I,— Lindamira too was out of Tune;— If Theodocia can go less, this change will be more my admiration, than her virtue was.  Enter Lindamira, passing in as by him. Lon 
Now Madam, whither so fast?  Lin. 
To see which way the wind blows;— pray my Lord, where is your heart now?  Lon. 
In the Princess lodgings, with yours;— or can you tell me better, where your own is?  Lin. 
I change my mind so often, that I know not where I left my heart last.  Lon. 
Are you no more concerned? Suppose Silvander change his opinion? Princess have mighty power to overcome men's hearts.  Lin. 
Why then his opinion will be changed?— I cannot value him, that leaves to value me;— methinks my Lord, the Princess favour to Silvander, should abate your passion for her.  Lon. 
My desires go no higher, then to look, and wonder at her perfections! my Esteem cannot be called love, beyond what Duty, and Obedience does allow;— but how does Silvander receive this great Honour?  Lin. 
They are now in private; you may judge by his exalted looks when you see him next;— I am glad your Lordship is no more concerned.  Lon. 
This is a forced discourse Lindamira, pray do not mock me, who have a true value of your worth.  Lin. 
The truth is, the Princess often angered at my confidence in Silvanders' love; only now tries if she can shake his faith, by higher propositions;— and my hope is, that his virtue may beget in her, some better thoughts for men, which will do your business, and confirm mine, for Silvander is above temptation; and I think Lonzartes does deserve what he desires.  Lon. 
You oblige me to say, your confidence does merit the greatest faith from man; but is Silvander of your Plot?  Lin. 
No, 'twould then be none, nor I no trial have of his sincerity.  Lon. 
These are dangerous sports, and we too late may find them so;— the Princess and you are both too bold, and do too much rely on your own beauties.  Lin. 
If Silvander can be won, I can smile at such a loss.  Lon. 
'Tis cause to say so, when you fear it not; but I have seen stout hearts fall to pieces by such a blow;— you have settled my heart again, and I advise you from these dangerous sports, lead they blow up your joys, when you are mo●● secure; we know our present minds, but cannot foresee what we shall like to morrow:—  
Our Nature with such frailty is endowed,  
'Tis well if present moments be allowed  Exeunt Severally. Enter Theodocia, and Silvander, two Ladies at a distance; Lindamira is seen near observing them. The. 
Is your heart my Lord so fixed on Lindamira, that no Person, nor any Argument, can 〈◊〉 prevail with you to change?  Sil. 
Our Soul's Madam, are so united, that hope death can only make that separation.  The 
Can no Fortune, nor any Quality 〈◊〉 you to Honours, and Happiness, beyond what you can ever hope from Lindamira? Nor a great beauty disengage your heart from her?  Sil. 
None can ever move me to a thought 〈◊〉 change Madam.  The. 
What if she have chosen higher, and given way for your preferment also  Sil. 
I can smile at all this, when your Highness 〈◊〉 mercy;— Lindamira and I Madam, do understand a happiness, can never be dissolved; we are above temptation.  The. 
Suppose my Father be her choice, will you pretend to love, and hinder her advancement, by your claim?— Suppose my Dear Cousin Pandora, have like affection unto you; and puts on this severity to others, in design only to gain you? will you let such a beauty, of so high virtue and extraction die for you?  Sil. 
Your Highness sure does fancy what is impossible?— but if all this were so, I could die in gratitude to serve Pandora, but do prefer Lindamira's love, and virtue, above the brightest beauty, or greatest Empire this World has.  The. 
Can there be such worth in men? how have I been misinformed?— Princes who do not converse, know not the World they Aside. live in, but take all on trust from others;— You believe that I am now in jest Silvander, and do not deal so freely, as I expect.  Sil. 
By all thats— I am fixed, past averring;— if your Highness knew the joys, which do accompany united hearts, you would sooner undertake to pull down Stars from Heaven, then hope a separation, where true love Triumphs.  The. 
I am fully satisfied, that Lindamira has what she deserves, a worthy Lover;— appear now Lindamira, and call in Lonzartes with the rest:— I am converted.  Enter Lindamira with Lonzartes and Ladies The. 
Here Madam, you are coupled by the gods, Silvander does deserve your confidence;— Now wear that Jewel, I before gave you in jest Sir, as a mark of my Favour, for your approved virtue.  Lin. 
Has your Highness any better thoughts for Marriage, than you had?  The. 
I have found an honest worthy man, beyond my Expectation;— Lonzartes you look sad.  Lon. 
My heart is not so full of feathers as it was, but is of late become a lump of lead.  The. 
We have indeed been all too serious of late; come Lindamira, let us find some Entertainment to refresh us on the 〈◊〉 this Evening; Lonzartes, you, and Clearcus may go with us▪ if you please?  [Exeunt all but Lonzartes. Lon. 
Your Highness does honour us;— what these various fancies tend to, is above my understanding;— As Nature has framed Women of a more refined matter, then us men, so she has given to some, Souls so much above ours Excellent, that their Intrincique purity, dazzles our Judgements more than their brightest beauty does our eyes;— Theodocia is cetainly without blemish;— yet may have some notion of my love, which she thinks not fit to cherish, because she likes not me:— And yet may have a virtuous concern for my birth, and sufferings, such as her good Nature is unwilling to destroy;— 'Tis Theodocia's Excellencies makes me thus humbly seek my Right, as her Gift; Else my Sword should make my way to ascend this Throne, which is my own;— but no more of that yet:—  
— For if I can be rightly understood,  
My love may save the expense of so much blood.  [Exit,  

FOURTH ACT.  Pandora with Lindamira are seen sitting on a Couch; Enter Clearcus to them, they rise. Cle. 
MAdam 'tis a felicity to love you, though neglected; by what Name then shall I call my Joy? Now you allow my Love, to what height raise my thoughts?— Shall I dare to enter upon such a state of bliss?— To be thus snatched into so much ●ight, from the long Chaos I have lived in, may prove more ruinous to me, than that Hell I came from.  Pan. 
My Lord, you speak a new Language I understand not.  Cle. 
Alas Madam, I have this night seen Visions, and do find my passion, growing much above my own command;— For when I look on your eyes, I forget that there are gods, and shall do such Idolatry to you, as will provoke them, to make me more miserable, than you can wish me happy;— But when I consider how vast a Chasm. your resolves have made between us; I sink into such an abyss of misery, that I can ne'er get out of.  Pan. 
I understand you less, and less;— The more you say, the more you do confound my Judgement.  Lin. 
All this Madam, is only to let us see how he could talk; if any Women were worthy of his real love;— pray my Lord proceed,— I shall take Notes and Edify.  Pulls out 〈◊〉 Table Book. Cle. 
Your mirth Madam, is now out of season, when every word I utter flows from my wounded heart.  Lin. 
Why do you not speak to me then? who can change my mind as often as yourself? I was made for you; this Lady is impregnable.  Cle. 
I yield Lindamira, let not your wit destroy a man that does submit to mercy; I beg quarter.  Lin. 
Oh! do you so?  Pan. 
'Tis enough Lindamira, that he does confess himself 〈◊〉 come, let it be Registered amongst our Victories;— And now my Lord, what is your next desire?  Ale. 
My next Madam, I have scarce begun with this, you do 〈◊〉 all I say for mirth; Does not my looks and Language show an Alteration?— All 〈…〉, that did possess my idle head are vanished, and I become a serious man:— Your 〈◊〉 is already wrought, and I now see the only way to my 〈◊〉, is to gain what I so much 〈◊〉.  Lin. 
Excellently well Acted, this might cozen twenty that did not know him.  Pan. 
You shall do well my Lord to pursue this new path, until you do obtain a general opinion of your virtue; But I hope you would not have us 〈◊〉 it at 〈◊〉 ●ight.  Cle. 
Though my love cannot yet gain credit in your Esteem, do not deny me the joy to think that you see how much I love, and honour you.  Pan. 
This is too serious for our Comedy my Lord.  Cle. 
Nothing can be too serious Madam, to express my love, by which the gods are pleased to bring me to them; thus by forbidding what might entice me to slight Paradise, by having had you here:— 'Tis fit then that I submit, and raise a joy from what I am now too apt to repine at, for 'tis a blessing to be so fixed, as Antidates my Elysium here on Earth; this Soul's joy will endure like its own nature, unto Eternity.  Pan. 
You are cured then Clearcus, and will unto the Prince confess your conversion, if we call you to it?  Cle. 
Propose away for my acknowledgement, and try.  Lin. 
Let us take time Madam to consider of it, lest we lose half the Entertainment by our haste, and so spoil the jest.  Cle. 
Madam, let not this Lady's mirth prevail with your good nature, to afflict a man, who can live only by your smiles.  Pan. 
I must confess I have some pain to hold in my smiles thus long, for this serious way of fooling I expected not from you my Lord.  Cle. 
Why Madam, do you take all this for jest still?  Pan. 
Yes indeed do I  Cle. 
By all the powers above, I do Adore you, next to them I Worship.  Lin. 
That's no Oath Madam, for he Worship● none.  Pan. 
I have the same thoughts Lindamira, and am safe.  Cle. 
What a Monster am I grown, give me credit Madam, or give me death?— If I do not love you, let jove strike me with sudden Thunder; or I will gladly seal what I have said with my be● blood, if nothing less will satisfy.  Pan. 
Hold Clearcus.  [He Dra●● Lin. 
Oh! let him alone, he'll not hurt himself, he only hopes to fright us.  Pan. 
My Lord you fright me now, and since you think fit to turn our Comic Scene into a Tragedy; I shall quit my part in it; and from this time, admit no farther visits from you:— Let us retire Lindamira, his converse grows dangerous.  Exeunt Ladies. Cle. 
This had been my fate, had I engaged a little farther, and this the fruit of chaste, virtuous love; what a folly 'tis, to give our freedoms up, unto the will of Women, so humbly to obey, those we are Created to command:— But I am safe yet, and will now play with 'em, at their own game; and through a seeming sorrow for my rejection, laugh at them, who think to laugh at me.  Enter Lonzartes. Lon. 
A good day unto my Friend.  Cle. 
You speak too late Lonzartes, this is a fatal day, and I am studying how I may make it more Eminent by death, then by my sufferings.  Lon. 
Why what's the matter man? have you visited the Ladies before they are dressed, and made 'em froward.  Cle. 
Thy love Lonzartes has ruined me;— yet I thank thee for my conversion, I shall now die a sober man.  Lon. 
Thy looks speak some disaster, tell me the worst, that I may join to find a Remedy.  Cle. 
In a word then, I do love Pandora, as she deserves, and did so to the life express my love; that in spite of Lindamiras mirth, she did believe it, and has forbid my farther visits.  Lon. 
'Tis not possible that she can be so fooled, she forbade thee in jest, come let us go to her now.  Cle. 
I'll swear she did forbid me, and in great anger turned from me, I dare not go.  Lon. 
This is pretty, wouldst thou have me believe thou lovest?  Cle. 
Lonzartes, I am not in humour to be played with.  Lon. 
Nor I in humour to be fooled; what wouldst thou have me say, when thou talk'st thus to me? thou in love! Ha, ha.  Cle. 
What shall I say? what do, to beget faith in thee?— Pandora's resolution against Marriage, which I so much rejoyeed at, is fatally become my scourge, and I must die, or have her.  Lon. 
That's the only way to obtain belief; do but hang thyself, and then a Printed Ballad (The Dary Maid's greatest Faith;) will make them swear thou died'st for love.  Cle. 
Do my looks agree with so much jest? does not my face declare, my heart does love?  Lon. 
No, nor ever can do to me, wouldst thou have me belie myself, that thou mayest laugh at me? these shallow Plots are lost on me.  [Exit Lonzartes Cle. 
This is right, had I been fooled into the Platonic pound; I might have knocked my head against the walls, and never been believed;— Thus I blow away those bubbles, those 〈◊〉 Lectures of chaste love, which lead silly morca●● into slavery;— Ha Sanga.  Enter Sanga. Sanga. 
Your pleasure Sir.  Cle. 
Go presently, and summon all that merry Crew, (who danced the other day,) to Sup with me this Night; and bid the Music come.  [Exit Sanga. Sanga. 
I go Sir.  Cle. 
I will retreat while I am safe, and be Armed against my Wife, Virtuous, chaste Friends, with their Cobweb Nets, so subtly laid to catch me;— Thus I throw all their Enchantments off;— And now like the Grand Seignor, after some great Victory atcheived;— I will retire to my Seraglio.  [Exit. Enter the Duke, with Theodocia, Pandora, Lindamira, Teretia, and Irain:— and Silvander. Duke. 
You tell me a story beyond belief Theodocia, Clearcus plays with you all this while; he love?  The. 
If Pandora be mistaken, he will triumph over Women kind for ever.  Pan. 
I wish it were no worse Sir, 'tis I who now am to be pitied, who for the common sport, and for his good, have brought an evil on myself, I cannot bear.  Duke. 
Why Pandora, he is descended of our own blood, and his Estate proportionable to his Birth? so that if you can raise his virtues above his vices, you'll have no cause to murmur at his love.  Pan. 
True Sir, if I were not engaged to a single life, much might be said, to set Clearcus merits above mine.  Lin. 
Is there no dispensation for such resolves Madam? when it may be disputed, whether the gods approve them?— They give us Laws enough, we need none of our own making.  Pan. 
My heart will ne'er consent to alter my resolves.  Lin. 
We shall have enough to do then.  The. 
Let us all agree to laugh him out of it.  Lin. 
You will find little cause for mirth, when you see Clearcus next Madam.  The. 
Can so few hours alter a man of his temper, so much?  Lin. 
He is ashamed of his first Principles, and is angry at that shame; He hates himself for loving, and loves so much, he dares not wish it less; This mixture of passions, does beget such a confusion of thoughts, that makes him look as if he had set on nought but sighs, and tears this twelve Month; and I fear we shall have cause to turn our laughter into sorrow for him.  Duke. 
I'll give him Commands that shall divert him;— come with me Theodocia.  Exeunt Duke and Theodocia. Lin. 
'tis great pity so brave a man should be so lost.  Pan. 
'tis so Lindamira, but how can it be helped? must I become mad, because he is so;— 'Twas not a rash word, by chance let fall, but on debate and mature judgement, because I saw none so happy after Marriage as before;— Why may not I then live and die as free as I was born?  Lin. 
You see why, because the gods do not allow so great felicity on Earth, as might keep us from ever wishing to be with them; pray whoever heard of a pair of true Lovers, that desired to be in Heaven, if they might stay here till Doomsday? 'tis therefore for our good, that such united hearts are so rarely to be found on Earth; take heed Pandora, that you bring not more evils on your head, than you fore see.  Pan. 
I must now bear my Fortune as I may.  Lin. 
Though you have not met with many happy Marriages, I have heard of some, who all their lives have had a constant spring of love; their passions so high, and joys so great, each 〈◊〉 to raise the others happiness above their own; this I believe and hope for;— Methinks till I am married, I am a thing laid by, as if forgotten by the gods.  Pan 
'tis not high passions, nor great joys, I doubt to find, but their continuance;— suppose the Gallant Lovers to the Wars be sent, what 〈◊〉 will possess their frighted Ladies, till their return? and if miscarry, what will their whole lives have to joy at after?  Lin. 
Those who stay at home, may have equal dangers, these are anticipated dreams of evils, that may never happen; than you conceive not the joy those dangers bring when they are over; this world affords us nothing to relish our delights by, but such accidents as love, with some fears and dangers bring; 'tis sharps make sweet the sweeter.  Pan. 
But if I am satisfied with less joys, without those pains you find so useful, why must I try to gain more happiness, than I do with for, when I have joys enough already?  Lin. 
Joys enough Madam; there is no such thing in Nature, as enough of what we love.  Pan. 
I am weary of this idle talk.  Lin. 
And I know no better Entertainment.  Enter to them Lonzartes, and Silvander. Pan. 
How think you Silvander, is Clearcus what he seems?  Sil. 
Lonzartes knows him best Madam.  Lon. 
I do believe he loves, though I seem not to credit him, and am now resolved to play with his passion, as he has done with mine; 〈◊〉 entertain the Princess rarely, to see how I shall anger him.  Sil. 
Is he enough fixed? to be so abused, for 〈◊〉 neither Men, nor Women have any faith in his budding love, he may fly off for ever.  Lon. 
I am now going to see what humour he 〈◊〉 in.  Sil. 
I'll wait on you.  Pan. 
Pray do, and let me know how I must be have myself, that would not hurt him.  Lin. 
I can direct you best, if you'll trust your self to me.  Pan. 
I shall trust you as far as any in this affairs▪ let us consult within.  Exeunt. Enter Clearcus and Sanga, with Men, and Women dancers. Cle. 
Welcome my dear friends, I will be no more seduced by grave Lonzartes fooleries; this night shall reunite us while we live:— Is the Music come.  San. 
Not yet Sir.  Cle. 
I have broke through their Nets, and now the day and night are ours to Revel in; we will be so merry, that our hearts shall seem much lighter than our heels.  Enter Sanga. Sanga. 
Lonzartes, and Silvander are without.  Cle. 
They are come as I could with, I'll entertain 'em as they deserve; they are my kind, chaste, virtuous, well-wishing spies;— pray retire all Exeunt Dancers. into that Gallery, while I dispatch my Court-Friends:— Sanga shut the windows close, then call 'em in, and say, that I am grown sad of late, Exit Sanga. monstrous sad;— Now for a grave face to suit with my disguise; I have some fear my sides will burst, with holding in my laughter.  He sits in a sad posture. Enter Sanga with Lonzartes, and Silvander. Sanga. 
Softly pray;— for a strange Melancholy has seized him on the sudden;— He is now talking to Pandora.  Sil. 
She is not here.  San. 
He entertains her Idea in her absence with the same passion, he would her;— the only sure way for a lover's happiness;— hark.  Cle. 
Blessed Angel, turn not away;— these tears must be my daily incense, offered at your feet; if you refuse this Tribute from my captived heart; you'll turn the Elysium I enjoy, to Hell: Oh stay! and take my Soul with thee;— that gentle look! that:—  Lon. 
Why so sad fond lover? let not one repulse dismay so great a Conqueror; thy next charge may prove more prosperous;— we come to council thee Clearcus, and to raise thy drooping Spirits by new hopes.  Cle 
Or to laugh at my affliction, whose Soul is sunk so low by my despair, that all my Spirits are vanished; I must submit to my Captivity Lonzartes.  [He sighs. Lon. 
That sigh had almost blown me over, yet I am glad to see this, and am now fully satisfied thou art in love, in love Clearcus:— let me Embrace my fellow-Prisoner, we will now shake our shackles, to the same sad tune.  Cle. 
I know you came to mock me;— but I must bear it.  Lon. 
Oh no! who can have so hard a heart? we pity you, and have some fears Pandora's heart will break, when we relate your mighty sufferings;— but if I should sit thus in the dark, would it create the like Angelical Idea in my brain Clearcus?  Cle 
This is barbarous, to catch a Lion in your Toils, and bait him like an Ass;— thus to render my passion Ridiculous, will beget Pandoras scorn, and may prove my destruction.  Lon. 
If she discern not your passion, how can she proportion her favours to your merit?  Cle. 
Do I deserve this mirth from you, thus to heighten my affliction?  Lon. 
Do you not?— all that I can do this Twelve month, will not bring me on equal terms for thy abuses:— remember how you held me to the Ladies, and made me your mirth, by which scandal you destroyed my credit with the Princess, this is my revenge.  Cle. 
'Twas a great scandal indeed to procure you the Princess leave to love her; by my means you have obtained a happiness beyond your hopes, which all your whining Poetry, or your Eternal sighs could ever reach;— for which special service;— prithee good sweet Lonzartes spare 〈◊〉 Hangs on him▪ me;— by our old Friendship I do beg;— by thy own virtue, and unparalleled chaste heart, I do conjure thee not to raise a public mirth out of my souls sorrow, which you have brought me to.  Lon. 
Well then, if I find you do continue thus humbly penitent, and truly thus afflicted, I will show more mercy than I found from you;— come cheer up;— we will sigh, and condole together, Embraces Clearcus. and if possible, so order our sad hearts, that both may the same moment break, and infect the world with such a sorrow, as may fright the female Sex from like rigour unto men; so shall we become a Noble Sacrifice to love, for the good of a whole Nation;— or if you please, we'll send for some of our old Gang to dance, and drink these Melancholy vapours from our hearts, to let the Ladies see, their beauties are not so destructive, as we make them believe.  Clearcus Embraces Lonzartes with great joy. Cle 
I marry Lonzartes, now thou talkest like a Philosopher, now thou prescribest the only remedy for our disease;— Sanga,— bid the Music strike a cheerful Air, and then call in those Friends in the next room;— Nay, if you allow this way of cure, I shall soon expel loves venom from my heart into my heels.  Embraces Lonzartes. Lon. 
What is all this Clearcus, art thou mad still?  Lonzartes starts back Cle. 
I am wise, and do not mean to quit my cool, pleasant, flowery paths, for your consuming flames of restless love, who walk on tops of Steeples, and at that height, plead that your chaste desires are pleasing to the gods;— But I, who know the end of such fair flathes, as at first appear with such folded Arms, and down cast looks, are but steps to approach the Lady's fingers ends;—  
— Then by degrees grown bolder, you aspire,  
Till nought but ruin, quench the subtle fire.  Enter Dancers Lon. 
What dost thou mean by this mysterious language?  Cle. 
I mean to follow thy advice,— to sigh only when I make love to Ladies, (their backs turned) I mean to dance, and sing as often as I can, that their neglects may pieice no deeper than their eyes discern;— here Lonzartes, this Girl will cure the bite of a Tarantula, and drive the poison from thy heart.  Lon. 
Out Hypocrite;— is this thy love unto Pandora? was all thy passion counterfeit the other day?  Cle. 
No, 'twas fairly growing up to equal thine in all sincerity of Noble thoughts; But the nice Lady would not permit it to take so deep root as yours, before she blasted all my hopes, and in a moment let me see, that love is like a bitter potion, which many taste, and flying away, rather choosing their disease, than so ill a relished remedy; This made me return to my old Antidotes Lonzartes;— what think you of a heat or two before you go?— call in the Music.  Sil. 
Pandora was to blame, to throw him off so rashly.  Lon. 
Let us retire Silvander, this Air is infected.  Exeunt Lonzartes and Silvander. Cle. 
Go whine fond lover, go whine, I say, go whine, While we cheer our hearts with Wenches and Wine, I say go whine.  [Exeunt Omnes. Here they Dance. Enter Lonzartes, Lindamira, and Ladies. Lin. 
I do not wonder that he is fallen off, 'twas what I feared, when his passion went so high, I saw Pandora was concerned, but we will bring it on again.  Lon. 
You are mistaken Madam, all he said then was jest, for he is now as mad as ever;— I left him Incirculed with six wild men, and as many wanton Girls, prepared to dance and Revel all the night.  Lin. 
There is no harm in dancing my Lord, unless they do catch cold; you judge Clearcus by what is past; but when I see him with Pandora next, I'll give my opinion of his concern.  Lon. 
By what means may their meeting be procured?  Lin. 
We'll think on't.  Enter Theodocia, and Ladies to them. The. 
I am sorry Lonzartes that Pandora has cast off Clearcus, which has occasioned his relapse, when a little patience would have settled him in the way of virtue.  Lon. 
'tis every way what I expected not; his love was as strange as his rejection, and his relapse in the old humour, beyond all the rest;— I know not what to think of him.  Lin. 
Let us bring them once more together, and I'll undertake to guests at both their hearts;— it may be govern 'um.  Lon. 
I Madam, but how shall they be brought together? when both would rather see a Basaliske, than one another.  Lin. 
You may be mistaken my Lord, who judge by what you see, when 'tis our business, and our virtue, not to show our hearts till a full trial, that men are worthy of them;— then you forget that Clearcus conversion, must be by one he cannot conquer.  The. 
But if he will neither conquer, nor be subdued, how can his conversion follow?  Lin. 
If your Highness can contrive an interview, I have a fancy in my head, that may reconcile them, and effect what we all with.  The. 
I will send presently for Pandora, and entreat my Father to pretend some business to call Clearcus hit her.  Lon. 
He will suspect.  Lin. 
Let him come, no matter what he suspects.  The. 
Do you Lonzartes, once more see what humour he is in.—  
— We must endeavour, and not fear to try,  
But trust the Event, unto their destiny.  [Exeunt severally. Enter Duke with Silvander and Lords. Duke. 
I ever thought Clearcus did but mock, and laugh at their designs; his brains is not yet ripe for serious love:— But how does Theodocia look on Lonzartes?  Sil. 
With much neglect Sir.  Duke. 
That is not well, have you Silvander instructed Lindamira, that she may inform Theodocia of Lonzartes Title to this Dukedom? and how much better than a Foreign Prince, her Marrying him, will be applauded by our people, who are not ignorant of his pretence.  Sil. 
I have Sir, and the Princess gives a serious ear to it, though she yet makes no reply; a little of your Council and Authority, I believe may incline her to a better value of him.  Duke. 
That shall not be wanting; Lonzartes 〈◊〉 all that I can wish in a successor;— and his love looks so without design, that I will cherish it, and try to win my Daughter to comply.  Sil. 
Your Highness will gain a double interest in all your Subjects hearts by this honour to Lonzartes, who has merits proportionable to your favour, and his birth, all which his love gives Lustre to.  Duke. 
I see it Silvander, and will recompense his Faith, and his Humility, with my advice to Theodocia, who yet knows not his story.  Sil. 
The Princess must needs hear what every body talks, and all do with.  Duke. 
I shall now inform her fully of Lonzartes Right, too long held from him: bid him meet me at my Daughter's Chamber; I will no longer hide my purpose for him:—  
— His Birth and Virtue, with his constant love,  
Declares he never can unworthy prove.  [Exeunt.  

THE FIFTH ACT.  Enter Lonzartes and Clearcus. Cle. 
NO, I'll never see her more.  Lon. 
Do you not love at all?  Cle. 
Nor ever will; methinks love is like a smooth water, that Invites men to Bath, and tumble in it with delight, until they be destroyed by Serpents, which in the bottom undiscovered lie.  Lon. 
What means this simile?  Cle. 
This Serpents bite, has Metamorphized you into a whining lover, into the shadow of a man, of late become a shape without a Soul; why must I busy my head with such Chymers, when I can please myself to my hearts wish, my own way?— Prithee sweet suppressed Prince, do not forsake me thus, for specious shows of happiness, or vainer hopes of better days, thes you will ever find in Court;— You are now safe, but when you grow wise, and serious, it will in the Duke's head great jealousies create; and to let him see your virtue, may be dangerous, and your pretence appear worthy of his fear.  Lon. 
That hazard is better, than what I now suffer, in the opinion of my best Friends, who believe this wildness is my Nature, or such as may beget a habit in me, which I can ne'er put off; and thus my security in this disguise, may become my ruin;— I wish I could persuade you Clearcus to show forth that virtue, all the World would wonder at.  Cle. 
To what end I pray? if the good Duke would give me employment fit for his Kins-man, and worthy of my Sword, I could soon be myself: But now I have nothing else to do, and therefore play away my time in folly; and 'tis a hard question which is best, for we know that too much wisdom does undo more men, than it advances, or else begets eternal slavery to State Affairs, where the wisest ever walk on needles points;— I have weighed these things, and do believe 'tis better to maintain the peace, and the security I now live in, unregarded.  Lon. 
But you will lose the Duke's favour, and become contemptible to the whole Court, if you continue thus Extravagant, what design can I have, by my desire to see you great and glorious?  Cle. 
Have I not tried, and been misled? yielded to your wise Maxims, against my own better judgement, and been rejected in the height of my Endeavours, to be (as you call it) great, and glorious, is not this true?  Lon. 
Yes, in part.  Cle. 
I will no more of your advice, till you can cure yourself.  Lon. 
I have an Honourable Argument for my love.  Cle. 
Who has not, until he be despised?  Lon. 
Was it not your own desire to be neglected? did you not declare against all women, 〈◊〉 you could conquer? you left Pandora no way 〈◊〉 victory, but by rejecting you; so that I can conclude a good success from what you raise despair.  Cle. 
Ha! think you Pandora did reject me, 〈◊〉 compliance with my humour only?  Lon. 
What else? can she be angry with you, 〈◊〉 loving her too much?  Cle. 
You do surprise me with a discourse I looks not for;— but I will be no more abused;— will not see her.  Lon. 
How can you be reconciled then? shall 〈◊〉 make love to you?  Cle. 
No, I abhor that thought beyond 〈◊〉 anger, a woman Woo, that were preposterous.  Lon. 
Will you treat by Ambassadors, and 〈◊〉 by Proxy?  Cle. 
Nor so, that's only fit for Princes, who cannot meet to treat.  Lon. 
Will you have her; if she declares 〈◊〉 would have you?  Cle. 
I shall never like her change of mind.  Lon. 
Can you tell whether you would have 〈◊〉 or not?  Cle. 
That's a harder question▪ then the other.  Lon. 
Will you have her by compulsion?  Cle. 
That were a Tyranny, would make her hate me ever.  Lon. 
Shall the Duke by his Prerogative Power, in spite of both your teeth, compel you both to compliance?  Cle. 
Let me think on this a little, at first fight, This looks likely to agree us:— if two impossibilities can make one possible, this might do our business.  Lon. 
Well, what do you resolve?  Cle. 
Nothing, why do you tempt me to farther evils?— I know not what to resolve, nor what to say;— but will no more of love, my heart shakes at the thought of my last trial;— I blush to think how much less than man I was, and how much more than woman I created her in those few hours I loved;—  Enter a Messenger. Messen. 
The Duke calls for Lonzartes.  Lon. 
I'll attend his Highness presently.  Cle. 
I take you for my Friend Lonzartes;— do not discourse me into a Ruin, you will share in.  Lon. 
I have no Rule for friendship above my desire to see you happy.  Cle. 
I believe it Sir, and beg your pardon for my distracted language;— I must attend the Duke to.  Lon. 
And I.  [Exeunt. Enter Pandora, and Lindamira. Pan. 
You tyre me Lindamira, and chide me for a fault I cannot own; I had no other way to free myself.  Lin. 
You might have checked his approaches▪ with somewhat less severity, your rigour may be get despair in him.  Pan. 
Dispair of what? my undertaking 〈◊〉 only on the Duke's command, to afford him 〈◊〉 visits, which I have done in hope of his conversion.  Lin. 
You did give o'er, before the work 〈◊〉 perfected.  Pan. 
You speak as if the design to set him 〈◊〉 were to enslave me to the humour of a 〈◊〉 man.  Lin. 
The wildest young men, do often prove the soberest at the last; and the truth is Madam we do all desire to see you and Clearcus convert one another; so to beget that unity of hearts which the World seeks most.  Pan. 
Do you believe that I who have a prejudice against the best of men, can e'er esteem the worst?  Lin. 
If Clearcus were under that notion, should have other thoughts; but when I consider such men reclaimed, do often make good Husbands; I have hopes of him.  Pan. 
If his wildness were his only fault, time▪ and experience might reclaim him.  Lin. 
If these be your only Exceptions Madam, I wish you would trust me to manage this affair.  Pan. 
You must not talk me into an Intr●●● which ● avoid;— I do not love him.  Lin. 
You will do, when you have him, I know many have done so after Marriage, who did not before.  Pan. 
That is too bold a venture for me, who have no faith in men; and those Examples you mention so rarely to be found, my courage dares not undertake it; pray no more of this.  Lin. 
The Princess desires your company at Court this Evening.  
I did intend to wait on her.  Enter Duke, Theodocia, and Lonzartes. Duke. 
I have given you Arguments enough on his behalf, which his dejected looks you see declare;— Your favours Theodocia should not be restrained, because his adoration is so great, he dares not beg'um; come near Lonzartes.  The. 
Lonzarte's Worth is understood beyond the weak Rhetoric of flattering words; he cannot wish to be more valued, than he is by me.  Lon. 
Nor will I ever Sue for favours beyond these you now afford me Madam;— may I confirm my hopes, by understanding what you say my own way?  The. 
You may, for since my Father does so much advise for Marriage, I may alter my opinion when I find just cause to value men, above my resolves against them.  Lon. 
For Heaven's sake Madam say no more, my breast cannot contain these spreading joys you give me, my hopes increase too fast for my despairing heart, to comprehend these honours you allow, without an Extacy.  Duke. 
Theodocia, I shall ne'er revoke the freedom I have given, to make your own choice, though I direct you to Lonzartes, to whom 〈◊〉 Ancestors have done wrong.  The. 
This your indulgence Sir makes me mo●● cautious how I proceed;— Marriage is a concern so great, I dare not at once resolve it, and the same day choose the man:— I can yet only say that I have altered my opinion in favour of Lonzartes.  Lon. 
My Amazement, and my concern are too great to answer Madam, my felicity is above the reach of a reply.  Duke. 
Theodocia, I have given you my be●● council, and my full consent to please yourself.  The. 
I thank you Sir, and will endeavour to Regulate my heart to your advice; and to Lonzartes wish;— give me but time to examine and approve what I am willing to submit to.  Enter Pandora, and Lindamira to them, with Silvander. Duke. 
How is it Madam, that you quit the field? before your undertaking be performed.  Pan. 
I have done my part Sir, which was on your command to allow him civil visits, and to entertain the Princess, I complied with Lindamira to try how our Raleary would work on him, which did produce so unlooked for an effect, that I was forced to quit my part, to save myself.  Duke. 
Were you in danger to be lost then?— I did not think Clearcus had prevailed so far; but if he be reclaimed, he will be worthy your esteem.  Pan. 
Your Highness did mistake me, I was in no danger to be lost through love, nor at all concerned; for a man who does declare against all worth in women, where he can get an interest: pray Sir, make me understand what you would have me do?  Duke. 
We would have you marry Clearcus.  Pan. 
Whether he will or no;— If I consent, can you prevail with him?  Duke. 
Do you comply, we'll try what we can do?  Pan. 
I would not be Treypand into a Marriage I am so much averse to, in confidence of his old humour, think myself secure, and be so lost.  Lin. 
You may ventute safely Madam, you see he is so great a Coward, that he only dares pursue them that fly him, do but charge and he will run away.  Pan. 
If I were sure of that, I would seem any thing to be freed from farther trouble.  Lon. 
Trust me Madam, he is now worse than ever.  Duke. 
Lonzartes, pray use your interest to bring him to us now.  [Exit Lonzartes. The. 
Do you think Cousin, we have a design to harm you?  Pan. 
No, but your Highness disputes me into a condition yourself does not approve; pray show me the way to this felicity, that I may credit what you say, by what you do.  The. 
Will you then engage to marry Clearcus, the same day I marry?  Pan. 
Shall I choose your man, as you would mine?  The. 
Suppose I have already chosen.  Pan. 
I thought your Highness had been of my opinion; But if provided, I give you joy.  The. 
Now you run too fast the other way, I am only towards marriage.  Can 
That journey seldom proves long Madam, when we look towards it.  Lin. 
That was said like a sage Sibell, the quintessence of truth in few words, 'tis but a willing mind, and then.  Pan 
Prithee Lindamira help me to be rid of this uncertain man.  ●in. 
I know no better council, then to be is love with him, or to seem so; for if he should take you at your word, and marry, that may do your work; for I once knew a Lady, who chose to marry an importunate `utor, that she might be rid● him, and was so; for soon after marriage they parted. and never met more.  Pan. 
You are alwares in jest, I would have serious council now.  Lin. 
You have had my store twice over to 〈◊〉 purpose.  Duke. 
By all my observations, I cannot judge whether Clearcus, or you Pandora, be most extravagant.  Lin. 
Your Highness may do well to put 〈◊〉 into the College of half mad Folks, where 〈◊〉 will either 〈◊〉 one another, or become quite mad together; when their discase is known, fo●● remedy may be found; ●●is now past judgement what either of them ail.  The. 
Lindamira says well, 'tis very strange your will not declare so far, as to let us see how we may serve you.  Pan. 
Do but leave me to myself, and I am well Madam.  The. 
Many sick people are of that opinion, when in most danger, and must therefore by their friends be governed.  Pan. 
As many healthy people, think themselves sick when they are not, and by seeking remedies for nothing, do create evils, they never can find 〈◊〉 for;— such high passions as Lindamira's, do never let us rest in peace, but do create perpetual storms.  Lin. 
You argue well Madam, if a dull calm, were the only happiness appointed us on Earth, than one degree from being asleep, would prove our greatest bliss;— sure no age did ere produce two such Icy-hearted Ladies, as the Princess & you.  Enter to them Lonzartes and Clearcus. Lin. 
Here comes a Homely, and a Jig hand in hand;— now for the second part to the same tune, Of love me, and love me not.  Duke. 
Clearcus, it troubles me to see you delight in a retired darkness, or else to walk in such clouds as we cannot see through; I would persuade you to regain Pandora's good opinion.  Cle. 
Is the mystery of love to be discussed in public Sir?  Duke. 
With us, who are so near allied unto you both; I think it may, because we all know what you both profess in private, and now desire to hear, what you will face to face avow; and we entreat you Pandora, first to show, why you threw off Clearcus.  Pan. 
You do amaze me Sir, to examine me as ● Criminal!  Duke. 
You have no cause for this displeasure Pandora, but mis-judge our love and our respects; we know your worth, and would to the World Illustrate that virtue you design to smother by ●●ingle life; I allow your purpose did become your younger days, and did express an Angelical innocence; but I question whether now, on mature judgement, you may not do better for yourself, and us, to reclaim Clearcus.  Pan. 
You demand impossibilities from me, for 〈◊〉 I should change my mind, he will change his 〈◊〉 Pray show me a rule to reclaim him by, before you do condemn me.  Duke. 
We only desire you will afford him the same civility, as did first induce him to adore that virtue he despised before.  Pan. 
I have done this.  The. 
You did begin, but you gave o'er too soon.  Lin 
And all her kindness but in jest too Madam, which he discerned.  Duke. 
How do you answer this? Lindamira 〈◊〉 of your council.  Pan. 
I 〈◊〉 him but in jest, and was by him enjoined to such seve●●● as I performed, and 'twas then thought the only way to vindicate our Sex, and to work his conversion, which he at first did counterseit so well, as to deceive, and fright me from his farther visits.  Lin. 
Was his love so terrible?  Pan. 
To me it was, who thought him uncapable of ever having Noble thoughts for any of our sex.  Duke. 
But when you found him growing worthy, why did you not cherish that virtue, as your own Creation.  Lin. 
Because she feared her Virgin-vow might be defiled, by owning such a Manchild of her own begetting; for he began to ask her blessing, till she laughed him into so great anger, that one day he proffered to kill himself, which gave end unto our Comedy.  Pan. 
If his cure had lain within the reach of Raleary I had gloried in my part, but never shall consent to enslave myself unto the humours of a man, who cannot be a minute in one mind; his imaginations are beyond the Moon, and would have he knows not what.  Duke. 
Clearcus you have heard your charge;— Guilty or not Guilty?  Lin. 
Guilty Sir.  Cle 
I shall never want your good word Madam;— Lindamira tells you true Sir, I am guilty.  Duke. 
Of what?  Cle. 
Of all the crimes, that offended Lady does object; pray Sir pronounce my doom, and put me out of pain.  Duke. 
Will you submit then, and obey it?  Cle. 
If it can put me out of pain, I will?  Duke. 
I doubt it not;— my Sentence is, that you revive that love you showed unto Pandora lately.  Cle. 
Oh Sir, the very name of love, puts me into a shaking fit; for Heaven sake, give me Halter's, Poisons, Daggers, any means to let out life, rather than renew those torments which I felt that hour I loved.  Lin. 
Pray Sir, give me leave, to put him some Interogatories.  Duke. 
Do so.  Lin. 
Your Lordship has confessed, that you have loved one hour, and must have some reason why you loved no longer; show us that reason, or for ever hold your peace, and submit to judgement.  The. 
How Clearcus, nonplussed by a Judge in Petticoats?  Clearcus stands mute. Lin. 
Why Madam? many of our Sex have pussled the wisest men;— give him leave to think a little;— but if what I have said, has struck your Lordship dumb, hold up your finger,— 'tis He holds it up enough;— He has nothing to say for himself, but submits unto the mercy of the Court;— I understand him Sir;— and have now found a remedy for both their evils;— If you will trust me with your hand my Lord, I will not harm it:— and Clearcus gives his hand. if I have credit enough Madam to be trusted with your hand too, pray lay it without fear on mine, that I may try a charm I have, to conjure out the evil Spirits that possess you both;— you may at your own pleasure, take back your hands;— only let me hold 'em, while I pronounce my charm within.  Pandora turns away. Duke. 
Pandora I entreat you to try Lindamira's charm, give her your hand, she deals not with the Devil.  Pandora gives her hand Lin. 
The Devil I work by Sir, is truth, dressed in her rich robe of Innocence;— if truth do not convince both these Delinquents, my charm will have no power on them;— My Lord you have in this great Assembly, often said, that you could never value any woman you could win;— if now you have found this Lady as impregnable as you can wish, she is your fate;— hold Sir, remember He proffers to speak you are dumb, till I have done;— Now Madam, I must speak serious sense to you, who stand here the expectation, and the wish of all the Court;— yet I know you must not consent to give your hand to him, nor in a look, or word comply, with what I say; for if you yield, Clearcus will for sake the Field;— I shall therefore only put your hands together, no marriage, nor no contract make, only desire that you will thus hand in hand retire a while with me in private, to apply my charm, who now do pray, that all the evils which ever did befall the most unhappy lovers, may light on him, or you, that shall their hand remove, before my charm does wor●●, now come with me.  〈…〉 Duke. 
What the issue of this will be I cannot guests;— Now Theologia, I must remind you 〈◊〉 Lonzartes, who dares not approach you on 〈◊〉 own behalf, who is, what you can wish, to make you happy; and I do again invite you to Crown his unparalleled humility with a bliss, he presumes not once to mention, lest it offend you; I have also a State Argument you understand not Theodocia, your two interests in this Dukedom, thus united, will make it flourish;— Lonzartes has been wronged.  The. 
I know his wrong Sir, and have observed his sufferings, or I had never dallied with his love; I onzarte's clear soul is adorned with more glories then this Crown will bring him.  Duke. 
If then your hearts agree, give me your hands;— here Lonzartes is the best reward I have to encourage modesty and worth, when they do in one heart combine, as now in thine.  Lon. 
Great Sir, I am so much surprised, so overloaden with my joys, that I have nought but blushes to express my gratitude;— nor know how to welcome this unlooked for honour from the Princess, who deigns to raise her humblest Servant from her feet, to set me on a Throne, incirculed with more joys, then that you now restore me to.  [He kisses her hand The. 
Keep still your Character Lonzartes, as I will mine, high transports in love are not long liv'd fear.  Lon. 
I shall be Madam, whatever you direct though this unlooked for happiness, do raise my heart above my own command, for such an excess of joy, is hard to manage.  [Kisses her hand Enter Lindamina. Lin. 
I may now with your Highness' Joy! hope, now your Fannatick love, conforms to the Law of Nations;— Now you may talk your pleasure against high passions Madam;— and me thinks you Sir, do look as if you liked this better than that wise Sect of airy lovers, whose Philosophy doth teach not to desire, what they can never reach.  Lon. 
You are Madam the best Philosopher I ever met and do deserve to have a Golden Statue in Loves-Temple set.  Duke. 
but how have you disposed of your Fantastic couple? 'tis that great work must Crown all your undertake Lindamira.  Lin. 
That goes on excellently well Sir, I have left them sitting on a Couch, with their hands still fixed, eagerly gazing on each other eyes, as if through them they could discern the inside of each others hearts; by their no motion, and their steady looks, I can foresee they will be of one mind suddenly.  The. 
Why could not we see this Experiment?  Lin. 
Oh Madam, my charm will not work in company; lovers will seemingly despise, what they like most, only to deceive observing eyes; I believe they held off thus long, for shame to own what they had so publicly declared against, and to themselves will hardly dare to let their hearts appear these two days;— they must look themselves into an Argument, for no words can ever reconcile their first Principles.  
If their hands, do not their hearts discover,  
I'll no more pretend to charm a lover.  The. 
May we not peep at the hanging, and stand unseen.  Duke. 
Let us not turn this serious work into a jest, unless Lindamira do approve it; none shall stir that way.  Lin. 
I can place you so, as you may see and hear too.  The. 
Pray Sir be pleased to look on them, our Testimony may be of use.  Duke. 
Come then.  ●in. 
Your Highness must stand silent, or you'll hinder my Projection.  The. 
We will, we will.  [〈◊〉 They all Re-enter behind the Couch, and stand on each side of the Stage; then is discovered Pandora, and Clearcus holding hands, and sitting on a Couch, a while silent, looking on each other; then Clearcus pr●ssers to kiss that hand be holds, she puts him back with her other hand, and turns her face from him,— He sighs:— Cle. 
Turn not away those beauteous lights have guided me to Heaven, nor look as if you were in pain to see my heart thus charged from a rude Distraction, to an Ecstasy of bliss; from a desormed satire, with a confused Chaos of dark thoughts, and blacker actions, by your glorious beauties, and brighter virtues, new formed into the Figure of a man, Emulating, those Excellencies I admire in you:— Oh turn this way, and own what is your own Creation, by your perfections raised from what was worse than nothing, to something now, too worthy to be cast away; I should this happy hour believe myself were in in Elysium; didn't this fair, soft hand, and those bright eyes assure me I yet live; from whence some divine instinct teaches my rude nature to adore, what I never understood before.  Pan. 
I do not like to be thus long left alone, to be exposed unto your passion, and the world's censure; Lindamira has deceived my trust;— I now see your plot, and her design descover, but will no longer suffer the abuse.  [Offers to rise. Cle. 
Be not so cruel unto yourself and me, think on the curse hangs over us, if we remove our hands till she return.  Pan. 
'Tis too much foolery, to give faith too.  Cle. 
Remember we complied to what she said; by which her words are Registied in heaven, and have engaged the gods by our consent.  Pan. 
‛ I was rashly done, and I repent;— when will this subtle Sorcerress return? my innocence will justify my blind consent, to which I was misled by my fidelity and trust, and will no longer fear to take away my hand.  [Offers to rise. Cle. 
Oh take nor your hand away until the holy Charm have rectitied your heart, and therein created so much charity, as in a moment may remove your scorns, and reach you love; for I, who so long slighted your neglects, and fied all civil favours from your Sex, do now tremble at the thought of parting hands, until our hearts like them, become united.  Pan. 
Do you believe I indamira 〈◊〉 of such Magic? that her words have power to reconcile dislenting hearts, live ours.  Cle. 
Yes, I find them work on me, and hope same effect on you, else why sit we here obeying those commands she left? why fear we to offend those powers she did invoke?— when you consider this, I hope you dare not stir a finger towards such impiety.  Pan. 
Though Lindamira's virtue be approved, I was surprised by her enticing words, and by the Duke compelled to do, I know not what;— and therefore will no longer now obey.  [Offers to rise; He holds her. Cle. 
Stay, oh stay, and let the fatal curse strike me alone; my guilts have merited what e'er can fall on me;— Do but command me to remove my hand, and I'll obey; that you may see how much your power prevails, above my fear of Lindamira's threats; If so, I may divert your harms; I will against my Nature and my Faith destroy all hopes of future bliss, to pull this ruin on myself, which else may light on you;— Say, must it be?  [Pandora sits silent a while. Pan. 
If I command your hands remove, and her curse should after follow you, my unblemished Innocence may suffer more than all your crimes can merit;— I have no faith in charms, nor cause to apprehend her curses can reach me; and yet;—  
— My doubts and fears, my reason does dismay,  
I know not what to do, nor what to say;  
The Wonder is so great, I am afraid,  [Aside. 
Some 〈◊〉 this Serpent, has an Angel made,  
And now endowed him with 〈◊〉 Art,  
In force of evidence from my stubborn heart.  Cle. 
'Tis worthy your consult, before you do destroy a body and soul; here a ready Sacrifice to set you free, for now I find that Lindamira's charm does higher work.  
And now again, that dazzling light display,  
Which did my heart inflame the other day:  
●o gods, I do implore your power to move,  [Aside. 
The bright Pandora, to allow my love;  
'T will be the same, if now Clearcus dies,  
By Thunder Struck, or by Pandora's eyes.  Pan. 
Lindamira's virtue, and her wit, are much more powerful, than her charms;— (which I contemn,) but you my Lord, have now by chance thrown out such words, I shake to think on;— Your body and your Soul are now at stake you say;— and by your looks I read, you think our Fortunes and our Fates, depend on my reply;— and so do I;— this is then too great a work, for so few minutes to dispatch; we must look up Clearcus, and from above seek aid:—  
'Tis piety, when we our hearts submit,  
To undergo, what ere the gods think fit.  Cle. 
'Tis so, let us hasten to the Temple then, there Celebrate:—  [They rise up. 
This happy issue of so strange contest,  
〈◊〉 wrought by the gods, must by the gods be blessed.  He Kisses her hand, three or four times in Joy. Cle. 
Where is this powerful Sibell gone? whose Sacred Charms do disenchant fantastic hearts.  Lin. 
I am here Sir, with witness enough, to hold Pandora to her word.  Cle 
Let me adore thy Divine virtue Lindamira? who hath showed such skill, to raise dead folks to life; for we were dead in follies, and are now become true converts Sir.  Duke. 
This is great News, you are both well come to your wits again, which does declare Lindamira a great Artist.  The. 
What says Pandora for herself?  Pan. 
I have both ways done too much, eitherto excuse or justify myself; silence becomes me Madam.  Lin. 
Let the clock strike twice, before we credit what they say, or else make all sure, by I Clearcus take thee Pandora, etc.  Duke. 
Lindamira is my Oracle;— give me your hand Pandora, and yours Clearcus  
May they most wretched live, and cursed die,  
Who shall this knot endeavour to untie.  The 
My prayers concur with yours Sir, and now dear Cousin, what I wished is come to pass, that you and I might on the same day be Married.  
Thus for our good, we see the Gods fulfil  
What they design, though much against our will.  Pan. 
Your great Example Madam, is sufficient to lead me from all my own resolves to follow you, and if now Clearcus be reclaimed, we must own all our happiness to Lindamira's wit, who has conquered both, when neither of us could subdue the other; And now Clearcus I hope will seek occasions to show the World by his own actions the Noble Stock he is Descended from.  Cle. 
By your permission Madam, I shall set my heart towards my Prince his, and my Country's Service;— I beg employment Sir, on the next Galleys you send out, least idleness corrupt my busy brain.  Lin. 
Mark that Sir, he is already wavering; Madam take heed how you take the spirit of uncertainty, (in the habit of a man.)  Pan. 
You speak too late, the uncertain man, is now my certain fare.  Cle. 
Some diversions are necessary Madam, to look on the same objects ever, dulls and tires the best eyes; but Lindamira can say nothing, I dare contradict.  Duke. 
You shall command in Chief Clearcus, to show the world the vigour you have too long hid.  Lon. 
Joys on joys, light on Clearcus head.  [They Embrace. Cle. 
May those joys be Multiplied on yours Sir; my Redeemer, and now become my Prince.  Duke. 
We must conclude this happy day Lindamira, by joining Silvanders' hand with yours, if your mirth will give us leave to be so serious?  Lin. 
That is a serious jest Sir, I have long looked for.  Duke. 
Come near Silvander;— which of you two is most pleased now?  Both. 
I Sir.  Duke. 
Who spoke 〈◊〉?  Both. 
I Sir,  Duke. 
This is a good Omen to a joyful like may you be both as happy as ever love made any  Sil. 
We are happy to our wish Sir.  Lin. 
He speaks for himself Sir, on hopes of more than he may find.  Duke. 
We'll Celebrate these weddings suddenly, and see that Lindamira's praise be in loud Hymeneals sung through all the City, to encourage the like Virtuous, and Noble undertake.  Lin. 
I thank your Highness for your good opinion, but shall love you for this gift of my Silvander, above all your other favours; Now Silvander  
Let us dwell Arm in Arm, and daily show  
Our loves increase, that all the World may know  
Our hearts: Now the fair Princess does confess,  
That Wedlock may afford True Happiness.    

EPELOGUE.  
LADIES, our Author has so great Respect  
To Your Fair Sex, he fears some gross Defect  
In his best Characters, may prove so short,  
Of Your perfections, he needs pardon for't.  
If such sad fate, do now attend his Play,  
In's Cloak, thus muffl'd, he will sneak away;  
But you likeed, he will on tiptoe go,  
That all the World, may the proud Author know.  
FINIS.