THE BASHFUL LOVER.  
A tragicomedy.  
As it hath been often Acted at the Private-House in Blackfriars, by His late Majesty's Servants, with great Applause.  
WRITTEN By PHILIP Massinger, Gent.  
LONDON, Printed for Humphrey Moseley, and are to be sold at his Shop at the Sign of the Prince's Arms in St. Paul's Churchyard. 1655.   

PROLOGUE.  

This from our Author, far from all offence,  
To abler writers, or the Audience  
Met here to judge his Poem. He by me  
Presents his service, with such modesty  
As well becomes his weakness. 'Tis no crime  
He hopes as we do in this curious time,  
To be a little diffident, when we are  
To please so many with one Bill of Fare.  
Let others, building on their merit, say  
You're in the wrong, if you move not that way  
Which they prescribe you, as you were bound to learn  
Their maxims, but uncapable to discern  
'Twixt truth and falsehood Ours had rather be  
Censured by some, for too much obsequy,  
Then taxed of self-opinion: If he hear  
That his endeavours thrived, and did appear  
Worthy your view though made so by your grace,  
With some desert) he in another place  
Will thankfully report, one Leaf of Bays  
Truly conferred upon this work, will raise  
More pleasure in him, you the giver's free,  
Then Garland ravished from the Virgin-Tree.    

Dramatis Personae.  

Gonzaga, Duke of Mantua  
Lorrenzo, Duke of Tuscany  
uberti, Prince of Parma  
Farneze, Cousin to Gonzaga  
Alonso, Cousin to Lorrenzo  
Manfroy, a Lord of Mantua  
Octavio, General once to Gonzaga, now exiled  
Gothrio, his Servant  
Galeazzo, a Nobleman disguised  
Julio, his Man  
Pisano, a Tuscan Lord  
Martinio, a Captain  
Two Captains more  
Ambassadors  
Soldiers   

Matilda, Daughter to Gonzaga  
Beatrice, her waiting Gentlewoman  
Two Women    

THE Bashful Lover.  

Act. I. Scaen. I.  Enter Gateazzo and Julio. Jul. 

I Dare not cross you sir, but I would gladly  
(Provided you allow it) render you  
My personal attendance.   Gal. 

You shall better  
Discharge the duty of an honest servant,  
In following my instructions which you have  
Received already, then in questioning  
What my intents are, or upon what motives  
My stay's resolved in Mantua: Believe me,  
That servant overdoes, that's too officious;  
And in presuming to direct your master,  
You argue him of weakness, and yourself  
Of arrogance and impertinence.   Jul. 

I have done sir; but what my ends are   Gal. 

Honest ones, I know it:  
I have my bills of exchange, and all provisions  
Entrusted to you; you have shown yourself  
Just and discreet, what would you more? and yet  
To satisfy in some part your curious care,  
Hear this, and leave me: I desire to be  
Obscured; and as I have demeaned myself  
These six months passed in Mantua, I'll continue  
Unnoted and unknown, and at the best  
Appear no more than a Gentleman, and a stranger,  
That travels for his pleasure:   Jul. 

With your pardon,  
This hardly will hold weight, though I should swear it,  
With your noble friends and brother.   Gal. 

You may tell'em,  
Since you will be my Tutor, there's a rumor  
(Almost cried up into a certainty)  
Of wars with Florence, and that I am determined  
To see the service: whate'er I went forth,  
(Heaven prospering my intents) I would come home  
A Soldier, and a good one.   Jul. 

Should you get  
A captain's place, nay Colonels, 'twould add little  
To what you are; few of your rank will follow  
That dangerous profession   Gal. 

'Tis the noblest, and Monarchs honoured in it:  
But no more on my displeasure.   Jul. 

Saints and Angels guard you.   Exit. Gal. 

A war indeed is threatened, nay expected  
From Florence; but it is 'gainst me already  
Proclaimed in Mantua: I find it here,  
No foreign, but intestine war: I have  
Defied myself, in giving up my reason  
A slave to passion, and am led captive  
Before the battle's fought; I fainted when  
I only saw mine enemy, and yielded  
Before that I was charged: And though defeated,  
I dare not sue for mercy; like Ixion  
I look on Juno, feel my heart turn cinders  
With an invisible fire: And yet should she  
Deign to appear clothed in a various cloud,  
The majesty of the substance is so sacred,  
I durst not clasp the shadow: I behold her  
With adoration, feast my eye, while all  
My other senses starve; and oft frequenting  
The place which she makes happy with her presence,  
I never yet had power with tongue or pen  
To move her to compassion, or make known  
What 'tis I languish for; yet I must gaze still,  
Though it increase my flame: however I  
Much more than fear I am observed and censured  
For bold intrusion. Walks sadly   Enter Beatrix and Ascanio. Bea. 

Know you, boy, that Gentleman?   Asc. 

Who, Monsieur Melancholy? hath not your  
Honour Marked him before?   Bea. 

I have seen him often wait  
About the Princess lodgings, but ne'er guessed  
What his designs were.   Asc. 

No? what a sigh he breathed now!  
Many such will blow up the roof; on my small credit  
There's gunpowder in 'em.   Bea. 

How Crack! gunpowder?  
hehas flesh and blood, and devils only carry  
Such roaring stuff about 'em: you cannot prove  
He is or Spirit or Conjurer.   Asc. 

That I grant; but he's a Lover, and that's as bad; their sighs  
Are like petards, and blow all up:   Bea. 

A Lover! I have been in love myself, but never found yet  
That it could work such strange effects.   Asc. 

True, Madam,  
In women it cannot; for when they miss th'enjoying  
Of their full wishes, all their sighs and heigh-hoes  
At the worst breed timpanies, and these are cured too  
With a kiss or two of their Saint, when he appears  
Between a pair of sheets: but with us men  
The case is otherwise.   Bea. 

You will be breeched, boy,  
For your physical maxims: But how are you assured  
He is a Lover?   Asc. 

Who, I? I know with whom too,  
But that is to be whispered. Whispers   Bea. 

How? the Princess! th'unparalleled Matilda!  
Some proof of it; I'll pay for my intelligence.   Gives him gold. Asc. 

Let me kiss  
Your honour's hand; 'twas ever fair, but now  
Beyond comparison.   Bea. 

I guess the reason;  
A giving hand is still fair to the receiver.   Asc. 

Your ladyship's in the right: but to the purpose,  
He is my Client, and pays his fees as duly  
As ever Usurer did in a bad cause  
To his man of law; and yet I get, and take 'em  
Both easily and honestly: All the service  
I do him, is to give him notice when  
And where the Princess will appear; and that  
I hope's no treason: If you miss him when  
She goes to the Vesper or the Matins, hang me;  
Or when she takes the air, be sure to find him  
Near her coach; at her going forth, or coming back:  
But if she walk, he's ravished; I have seen him smell out  
Her footing like a Lime-hound, and knows it  
From all the rest of her train.   Bea. 

Yet I ne'er saw him present her a petition,   Asc. 

Nor e'er shall: He only sees her, sighs, and sacrifices  
A tear or two; then vanishes.   Bea. 

'Tis most strange:  
What a sad aspect he wears! but I'll make use of't.  
The Princess is much troubled with the threats  
That come from Florence; I will bring her to him,  
The novelty may afford her sport, and help  
To purge deep melancholy. Boy, can you stay  
Your Client here for the third part of an hour?  
I have some ends in't.   Asc. 

Stay him, Madam; fear not:  
The present receipt of a round sum of crowns,  
And that will draw most Gallants from their prayers,  
Cannot drag him from me.   Bea. 

See you do.   Asc. 

ne'er doubt me,  
I'll put him out of his dream. Good morrow Signior.   Gal. 

My little friend, good morrow: Hath the Princess  
Slept well tonight?   Asc. 

I hear not from her women  
One murmur to the contrary.   Gal. 

Heaven be praised for't:  
Does she go to Church this morning?   Asc. 

Troth I know not; I keep no key of her devotion, Signior.   Gal. 

Goes she abroad? pray tell me.   Asc. 

'Tis thought rather  
She is resolved to keep her chamber.   Gal. 

Ay me!   Asca. 

Why do you sigh? If that you have a business  
To be dispatched in Court, show ready money,  
You shall find those that will prefer it for you.   Gal. 

Business! can any man have business, but  
To see her, then admire her, and pray for her,  
She being composed of goodness? For myself,  
I find it a degree of happiness  
But to be near her; and I think I pay  
A strict religious vow, when I behold her,  
And that's all my ambition.   Asca. 

I believe you:  
Yet she being absent, you may spend some hours  
With profit and delight too. After dinner  
The Duke gives audience to a rough Ambassador,  
Whom yet I never saw, nor heard his title,  
Employed from Florence: I'll help you to a place  
Where you shall see and hear all.   Gal. 

'tis not worth my observation.   Asca. 

What think you of  
An excellent Comedy to be presented  
For his entertainment? He that penned it, is  
The Poet of the time; and all the Ladies  
(I mean the amorous and learned ones)  
Except the Princess, will be there to grace it.   Gal. 

What's that to me? without her all is nothing,  
The light that shines in Court, Cimmerian darkness:  
I will to bed again, and there contemplate  
On her perfections.   Enter Matilda, Beatrix, and two Women. Asca. 

Stay sir! see the Princess,  
Beyond our hopes.   Gal. 

Take that, as Moors salute  
The rising Sun with joyful superstition:  
I could fall down and worship. O my heart! aside  
Like Phoebe breaking through an envious cloud,  
Or something which no simile can express,  
She shows to me; a reverend fear, but blended  
With wonder and amazement, does possess me;  
Now glut thyself, my famished eye.   Bea. 

That's he, an't please your Excellence.   1 Wo. 

Observe his posture,  
But with a quarter-look.   2 Wo. 

Your eye fixed on him, will breed astonishment.   Matil. 

A comely Gentleman! I would not question your relation, Lady,  
Yet faintly can believe it: How he eyes me!  
Will he not speak?   Bea. 

Your Excellence hath deprived him  
Of speech and motion.   Mat. 

'Tis most strange.   Asc. 

These fits are usual with him.   Mat. 

Is it not, Ascanio,  
A personated folly? or he a statue?  
If it be, it is a masterpiece; for man  
I cannot think him.   Bea. 

For your sport vouchsafe him a little conference.   Mat. 

In compassion rather:  
For should he love me as you say (though hopeless)  
It should not be returned with scorn; that were  
An inhumanity, which my birth nor honour  
Could privilege, were they greater. Now I perceive  
He has life and motion in him; to whom, Lady,  
Pays he that duty? Galeaz. bowing, offers to go off.   Bea. 

Sans doubt to yourself.   Mat. 

And whither goes he now?   Asc. 

To his private lodging,  
But to what end I know not; this is all  
I ever noted in him.   Mat. 

Call him back: In pity I stand bound to counsel him,  
howe'er I am denied, though I were willing  
To ease his sufferings.   Asc. 

Signior, the Princess commands you to attend her.   Gal. 

How? the Princess! am I betrayed?   Asc. 

What a lump of flesh is this?  
You are betrayed, sir, to a better fortune  
Than you durst ever hope for: What a Tantalus  
Do you make yourself? the flying fruit stays for you,  
And the water that you longed for, rising up  
Above your lip, do you refuse to taste it?  
Move faster, sluggish Camel, or I will thrust  
This goad in your breech: Had I such a promising beard,  
I should need the reins, not spurs.   Mat. 

You may come nearer;  
Why do you shake, sir? If I flatter not  
myself, there's no deformity about me,  
Nor any part so monstrous to beget  
An ague in you.   Gal. 

It proceeds not, Madam, from guilt, but reverence.   Mat. 

I believe you sir; have you a suit to me?   Gal. 

Your Excellence is wondrous fair.   Mat. 

I thank your good opinion.   Gal. 

And I beseech you that I may have licence To kneel to you.   Mat. 

A suit I cannot cross.   Gal. 

I humbly thank your Excellence.   Mat. 

But what,  
As you are prostrate on your knee before me,  
Is your petition?   Gal. 

I have none, great Princess,   Mat. 

Do you kneel for nothing?   Gal. 

Yes, I have a suit;  
But such a one, as if denied, will kill me.   Mat. 

Take comfort; it must be of some strange nature,  
Unfitting you to ask, or me to grant,  
If I refuse it.   Gal. 

It is, Madam,—   Mat. 

Out with't.   Gal. 

That I may not offend you, this is all,  
When I presume to look on you.   Asc. 

A flat Eunuch! to look on her? I should desire myself.  
To move a little further.   Mat. 

Only that?   Gal. 

And I beseech you, Madam, to believe  
I never did yet with a wanton eye  
Or cherish one lascivious wish beyond it.   Bea. 

You'll never make good Courtier, or be  
In grace with Ladies.   1 Woman. 

Or us Waiting-Women, if that be your  
Nil ultra.   2 Woman. 

He's no Gentleman, on my virginity it is apparent:  
My Tailor has more boldness, nay my shoemaker  
Will fumble a little further, he could not have  
The length of my foot else.   Mat. 

Only to look on me? ends your ambition there?   Gal. 

It does, great Lady,  
And that confined too, and at fitting distance:  
The Fly that plays too near the flame, burns in it.  
As I behold the sun, the stars, the Temples,  
I look upon you, and wish 'twere no sin,  
Should I adore you.   Mat. 

Come, there's something more in't;  
And since that you will make a Goddess of me,  
As such a one, I'll tell you, I desire not  
The meanest Altar raised up to mine honour  
To be pulled down; I can accept from you  
(Be your condition ne'er so far beneath me)  
One grain of incense with devotion offered,  
Beyond all perfumes or Sabean spices  
By one that proudly thinks he merits in it:  
I know you love me.   Gal. 

Next to heaven, Madam,  
And with as pure a zeal. That we behold  
With th'eyes of contemplation, but can  
Arrive no nearer to it in this life;  
But when that is divorced, my soul shall serve yours,  
And witness my affection.   Mat. 

Pray you rise, but wait my further pleasure.   Enter Farneze and Uberti. Far. 

I'll present you,  
And give you proof I am your friend, a true one;  
And in my pleading for you, teach the age  
That calls erroneously Friendship but a name,  
It is a substance. Madam, I am bold  
To trench so far upon your privacy,  
As to desire my friend (Let not that wrong him,  
For he's a worthy one) may have the honour  
To kiss your hand.   Mat. 

His own worth challengeth a greater favour.   Far. 

Your acknowledgement  
Confirms it, Madam: If you look on him  
As he's built up a man, without addition  
Of fortunes liberal favours, wealth or titles,  
He doth deserve no usual entertainment.  
But as he is a Prince, and for your service  
Hath left fair Parma (that acknowledges  
No other Lord) and uncompelled exposes  
His person to the dangers of war,  
Ready to break in storms upon our heads;  
In noble thankfulness you may vouchsafe him  
Nearer respect, and such grace as may nourish,  
Not kill his amorous hopes.   Mat. 

cousin, you know I am not the disposer of myself,  
The Duke my father challengeth that power:  
Yet thus much I dare promise; Prince Uberti  
Shall find the seed of service that he sows  
Falls not on barren ground.   Uber. 

For this high favour  
I am your creature, and profess I owe you  
Whatever I call mine. They walk   Gal. 

This great Lord is  
A Suitor to the Princess.   Asca. 

True, he is so:   Ga. 

Fame gives him out too for a brave commander   Asca. 

And in it does him but deserved right;  
The Duke hath made him General of his horse  
On that assurance.   Gal. 

And the Lord Farneze pleads for him, as it seems.   Asca. 

'Tis too apparent:  
And this considered, give me leave to ask  
What hope have you sir?   Gal. 

I may still look on her,  
howe'er he wear the garland.   Asca. 

A thin diet, and will not feed you fat, sir.   Uber. 

I rejoice, rare Princess, that you are not to be won  
By Carpet-courtship, but the sword: with this  
Steel-pen I'll write on Florence helm, how much  
I can, and dare do for you.   Mat. 

'Tis not questioned,  
Some private business of mine own disposed of,  
I'll meet you in the presence.   Vber. 

Ever your servant.   Ex. Uber. Farne. Mat. 

Now sir to you: You have observed, I doubt not,  
(For Lovers are sharp. sighted) to what purpose  
This Prince solicits me; and yet I am not  
So taken with his worth, but that I can  
Vouchsafe you further parley. The first command  
That I'll impose upon you, is to hear  
And follow my good council: I am not  
Offended that you love me: persist in it,  
But love me virtuously, such love may spur you  
To noble undertakings, which achieved,  
Will raise you into name, preferment, honour:  
For all which, though you ne'er enjoy my person,  
(For that's impossible) you are indebted  
To your high aims; visit me when you please,  
I do allow it, nor will blush to own you,  
(So you confine yourself to what you promise)  
As my virtuous servant.   Bea. 

Farewell sir, you have  
An unexpected Cordial.   Asc. 

May it work well.   Exeunt. manet Gal. Gal. 

Your love, yes, so she said, may spur you to  
Brave undertakings: Adding this, You may  
Visit me when you please. Is this allowed me,  
And any act within the power of man  
Impossible to be effected? no,  
I will break through all oppositions that  
May stop me in my full carrier to honour;  
And borrowing strength to do, from her high favour,  
Add something to Alcides greatest labour.   Exit. Enter Gonzaga, Uberti, Farneze, Manfroy, Attendants. Gon. 

This is your place, and were it in our power,  
You should have greater honour, Prince of Parma:  
The rest know theirs; let some attend with care  
On the Ambassador, and let my Daughter  
Be present at his audience. Reach a chair,  
We'll do all fit respects; and pray you put on  
Your milder looks; you are in a place where frowns  
Are no prevailing agents.   Enter (at one door) Alonzo and Attendants: Matilda, Beatrix, Ascanio, Galeazo, and Waiting-women (at the other.) Asc: 

I have seen  
More than a wolf, a Gorgon: [Swoons]   Gon. 

What's the matter?   Mat. 

A Page of mine is fallen into a swoon,  
Look to him carefully.   Gon. 

Now when you please, the cause that brought you hither?   Alon. 

The protraction  
Of my dispatch forgotten, from Lorenzo  
The Tuscan Duke, thus much to you Gonzaga  
The Duke of Mantua: By me his nephew  
He does salute you fairly, and entreats  
(A word not suitable to his power and greatness)  
You would consent to tender that, which he  
Unwillingly must force, if contradicted.  
Ambition, in a private man a vice,  
Is in a Prince the virtue.   Gonza. 

To the purpose; these ambages are impertinent.   Alon. 

He demands  
The fair Matilda (for I dare not take  
From her perfections) in a noble way;  
And in creating her the comfort of  
His royal bed, to raise her to a height  
Her flattering hopes could not aspire, where she  
With wonder shall be gazed upon, and live  
The envy of her sex.   Gonza. 

Suppose this granted.   Uber. 

Or if denied, what follows?   Alon. 

Present war, with all extremities the Conqueror can  
Inflict upon the vanquished.   Uber. 

Grant me licence  
To answer this defiance: What intelligence  
Holds your proud Master with the will of Heaven,  
That ere th'uncertain die of War be thrown,  
He dares assure himself the victory?  
Are his unjust invading Arms of fire?  
Or those we put on in defence of right,  
Like chaff to be consumed in the encounter?  
I look on your dimensions, and find not  
Mine own of lesser size; the blood that fills  
My veins, as hot as yours; my sword as sharp,  
My nerves of equal strength, my heart as good,  
And confident we have the better cause,  
Why should we fear the trial?   Far. 

You presume you are superior in numbers; we  
Lay hold upon the surest anchor, virtue;  
Which when the tempest of the war roars loudest,  
Must prove a strong protection.   Gonza. 

Two main reasons (seconding those you have already heard)  
Gives us encouragement: The duty that  
I owe my mother Country, and the love  
Descending to my daughter. For the first,  
Should I betray her liberty, I deserved  
To have my name with infamy razed from  
The catalogue of good Princes: And I should  
Unnaturally forget I am a father,  
If like a Tartar, or for fear or profit,  
I should consign her as a bondwoman  
To be disposed of at another's pleasure,  
Her own consent or favour never sued for,  
And mine by force exacted. No, Alonzo,  
She is my only child, my heir; and if  
A father's eyes deceive me not, the hand  
Of prodigal nature hath given so much to her,  
As in the former age's Kings would rise up  
In her defence, and makes her cause their quarrel:  
Nor can she, if that any spark remain  
To kindle a desire to be possessed  
Of such a beauty, in our time want swords  
To guard it safe from violence.   Gal. 

I must speak, or I shall burst; now to be silent, were  
A kind of blasphemy. If such purity,  
Such innocence, an abstract of perfection,  
The soul of beauty, virtue, in a word,  
A Temple of things sacred, should groan under  
The burden of oppression, we might  
Accuse the Saints, and tax the Powers above us  
Of negligence or injustice. Pardon, sir,  
A stranger's boldness, and in your mercy call it  
True zeal, not rudeness: In a cause like this,  
The Husbandman would change his ploughing-irons  
To weapons of defence, and leave the earth  
Untilled, although a general dearth should follow:  
The Student would forswear his book; the Lawyer  
Put off his thriving gown, and without pay  
Conclude this case is to be fought, not pleaded:  
The women will turn Amazon's, as their sex  
In her were wronged; and boys write down their names  
I'th' muster-book for soldiers.   Gonza. 

Take my hand;  
whate'er you are, I thank you: how are you called?   Gal. 

Hortensio, a milanese.   Gonza. 

I wish Mantua had many such. My Lord  
Ambassador,  
Some privacy if you please: Manfroy, you may  
Partake it, and advise us. They go aside.   Uber. 

Do you know, friend,  
What this man is, or of what country?   Far. 

Neither.   Uber. 

I'll question him myself; what are you sir?   Gal. 

A Gentleman.   Uber. 

But if there be gradation  
In Gentry, as the Heralds say, you have  
Been overbold in the presence of your betters.   Gal. 

My betters, sir?   Uber. 

Your betters! as I take it, you are no Prince.   Gal. 

'Tis fortune's gift you were born one:  
I have not heard that glorious title crowns you  
As a reward of virtue; it may be  
The first of your house deserved it, yet his merits  
You can but faintly call your own.   Mat. 

Well answered.   Uber. 

You come up to me.   Gal. 

I would not turn my back  
If you were the Duke of Florence, though you charged me  
I'th' head of our troops.   Uber. 

Tell me in gentler language,  
(Your passionate speech induces me to think so)  
Do you love the Princess?   Gal. 

Were you mine enemy,  
Your foot upon my breast, sword at my throat,  
Even then I would profess it. The ascent  
To th'height of honour, is by arts or arms:  
And if such an unequalled prize might fall  
On him that did deserve best in defence  
Of this rare Princess, in the day of battle  
I should lead you a way would make your Greatness  
Sweat drops of blood to follow.   Uber. 

Can your Excellence  
Hear this without rebuke from one unknown?  
Is he a Rival for a Prince?   Mat. 

My Lord, you take that liberty I never gave you:  
In justice you should give encouragement  
To him or any man that freely offers  
His life to do me service, not deter him;  
I give no suffrage to it: Grant he loves me,  
As he professes, how are you wronged in it?  
Would you have all men hate me but yourself?  
No more of this I pray you: If this Gentleman  
Fight for my freedom, in a fit proportion  
To his desert and quality, I can  
And will reward him, yet give you no cause  
Of jealousy or envy.   Gal. 

Heavenly Lady!   Gonz. 

No peace, but on such poor and base conditions?  
We will not buy it at that rate: Return  
This answer to your Master: Though we wished  
To hold fair quarter with him, on such terms  
As honour would give way to, we are not  
So thunderstruck with the loud voice of war,  
As to acknowledge him our Lord before  
His sword hath made us Vassals: we long since  
Have had intelligence of the unjust gripe  
He purposed to lay on us; neither are we  
So unprovided as you think, my Lord,  
He shall not need to seek us, we will meet him  
And prove the fortune of a day, perhaps  
Sooner than he expects.   Alon. 

And find repentance when 'tis too late.  
Farewell.   [Exit with Farneze.] Gonza. 

No, my Matilda,  
We must not part so: Beasts and birds of prey  
To their last gasp defend their brood; and Florence  
Over thy father's breast shall march up to thee,  
Before he force affection: The arms  
That thou must put on for us and thyself,  
Are prayers and pure devotion, which will  
Be heard, Matilda. Manfroy, to your trust  
We do give up the City, and my daughter;  
On both keep a strong guard: No tears, they are ominous.  
O my Octavio, my tried Octavio  
In all my dangers! now I want thy service,  
In passion recompensed with banishment.  
Error of Princes, who hate virtue when  
She's present with us, and in vain admire her  
When she is absent! 'Tis too late to think on't:  
The wished for time is come, Princely Uberti,  
To show your valour; Friends being to do, not talk.  
All rhetoric is fruitless, only this,  
Fate cannot rob you of deserved applause,  
Whether you win or lose in such a cause.   Exeunt.  

Act. 2. Scaen. 1.  Enter Matilda, Beatrix, and two Women. 

NO matter for the Ring I asked you for:  
The Boy not to be found?   Bea. 

Nor heard of, Madam:   1 Wo. 

He hath been sought and searched for, house by house,  
Nay, every nook of the City, but to no purpose.   2 Wo. 

And how he should escape hence, the Lord Manfroy  
Being so vigilant o'er the guards, appears  
A thing impossible.   Mat. 

I never saw him  
Since he swooned in the presence, when my Father  
Gave audience to the Ambassador: but I feel  
A sad miss of him; on any slight occasion  
He would find out such pretty arguments  
To make me sport, and with such witty sweetness  
Deliver his opinion, that I must  
Ingeniously confess his harmless mirth,  
When I was most oppressed with care, wrought more  
In the removing of it, than music on me.   Bea. 

An't please your Excellence, I have observed him  
Waggishly witty; yet sometimes on the sudden  
He would be very pensive, and then talk  
So feelingly of love, as if he had  
Tasted the bitter sweets of't.   1 Wo. 

He would tell too a pretty tale of a sister that had been  
Deceived by her Sweetheart; and then weeping swear  
He wondered how men could be false   2 Wo. 

And that when he was a Knight, he would be the Lady's Champion,  
And travel o'er the world to kill such Lovers  
As durst play false with their Mistresses:   Mat. 

I am sure I want his company   Enter Manfroy (with a Letter.) 

There are Letters, Madam,  
In post come from the Duke; but I am charged  
By the careful bringer, not to open them  
But in your presence.   Mat. 

Heaven preserve my Father!  
Good news, an't be thy will!   Manf. 

Patience must arm you against what's ill.   Mat. 

I'll hear 'em in my Cabinet:   Exeunt. Enter Galeazo and Ascanio (with a Ring.) Gal 

Why have you left the safety of the City  
And service of the Princess, to partake  
The dangers of the Camp? and at a time too  
When the Armies are in view, and every minute  
The dreadful charge expected.   Asc. 

You appear so far beyond yourself, as you are now  
Armed like a soldier, (though I grant your presence  
Was ever gracious) that I grow enamoured  
Of the profession, in the horror of it  
There is a kind of majesty.   Gal. 

But too heavy to sit on thy soft shoulders, Youth; retire  
To the Duke's tent that's guarded.   Asc. 

Sir, I come  
To serve you: Knights adventurers are allowed  
Their Pages; and I bring a will that shall  
Supply my want of power.   Gal. 

To serve me, boy! I wish (believe it) that 'twere in my nerves  
To do thee any service; and thou shalt  
If I survive the fortune of this day,  
Be satisfied I am serious.   Asc. 

I am not  
To be put off so, sir: since you do neglect  
My offered duty, I must use the power  
I bring along with me, that may command you:  
You have seen this Ring.   Gal. 

Made rich by being worn upon the Princess finger.   Asc. 

'Tis a favour  
To you, by me sent from her: view it better;  
But why coy to receive it?   Gal. 

I am unworthy  
Of such a blessing, I have done nothing yet  
That may deserve it; no commander's blood  
Of th'adverse party hath yet died my sword  
Drawn out in her defence. I must not take it.  
This were a triumph for me when I had  
Made Florence Duke my prisoner, and compelled him  
To kneel for mercy at her feet.   Asc. 

'Twas sent, sir,  
To put you in mind whose cause it is you fight for;  
And as I am her creature, to revenge  
A wrong to me done.   Gal. 

By what man?   Asc. 

Alonzo.   Gal. 

Th'Ambassador?   Asc. 

The same:   Gal. 

Let it suffice, I know him by his armour and his horse;  
And if we meet— I am cut off, the Alarum  
Commands me hence: sweet Youth, fall off.   Asc. 

I must not; you are too noble to receive a wound  
Upon your back; and following close behind you,  
I am secure, though I could wish my bosom  
Were your defence.   Gal. 

Thy kindness will undo thee.   Exeunt Enter Lorenzo, Alonzo, Pisano, Martino. Lor. 

We'll charge the main Battalia, fall you  
Upon the Van, preserve your Troops entire  
To force the Rear: he dies that breaks his ranks,  
Till all be ours and sure.   Pisa. 

'Tis so proclaimed.   Exeunt. Enter Galeazzo, Ascanio, and Alonzo. Gal. 

'Tis he, Ascanio: Stand!   Alon. 

I never shunned  
A single opposition; but tell me  
Why in the battle, of all men, thou hast  
Made choice of me?   Gal. 

Look on this Youth; his cause  
Sits on my sword   Alon. 

I know him not.   Gal. 

I'll help your memory. Fight   Asc. 

What have I done? I am doubtful  
To whom to wish the victory; for still  
My resolution wavering, I so love  
The enemy that wronged me, that I cannot  
Without repentance wish success to him  
That seeks to do me right.— Alas he's fallen.  
Alonzo falls.  
As you are gentle, hold sir! or if I want  
Power to persuade so far, I conjure you  
By her loved name I am sent from.   Gal. 

'Tis a charm  
Too strong to be resisted: He is yours.  
Yet why should you make suit to save that life  
Which you so late desired should be cut off  
For injuries received, begets my wonder.   Asc. 

Alas, we foolish spleenful boys would have  
We know not what: I have some private reasons,  
But now not to be told.   Gal. 

Shall I take him prisoner?   Asc. 

By no means, sir; I will not save his life  
To rob him of his honour: when you give,  
Give not by halves: One short word, and I follow.   Exit Galeazo. 

My Lord Alonzo, if you have received  
A benefit, and would know to whom you owe it,  
Remember what your entertainment was  
At old Octavio's house, one you called friend,  
And how you did return it.   Exit. Alon. 

I remember I did not well; but it is now no time  
To think upon't; my wounded honour calls  
For reparation, I must quench my fury  
For this disgrace in blood, and some shall smart for't.   Exit. Enter Uberti, Farneze (wounded.) Far. 

O Prince Uberti, valour cannot save us;  
The body of our Army's pierced and broken,  
The wings are routed, and our scattered Troops  
Not to be rallied up.   Vber 

'Tis yet some comfort,  
The enemy must say we were not wanting  
In courage or direction; and we may  
Accuse the powers above us partial, when  
A good cause, well defended too, must suffer  
For want of fortune.   Far. 

All is lost; the Duke  
Too far engaged, I fear, to be brought off:  
Three times I did attempt his rescue, but  
With odds was beaten back: Only the stranger  
(I speak it to my shame) still followed him,  
Cutting his way; but 'tis beyond my hopes  
That either should return.   Uber. 

That noble stranger,  
Whom I in my proud vanity of greatness  
As one unknown contemned, when I was thrown  
Out of my saddle by the great Duke's lance,  
Horsed me again in spite of all that made  
Resistance; and then whispered in mine ear,  
Fight bravely Prince Uberti, there's no way else  
To the fair Matilda's favour.   Far. 

'Twas done nobly.   Uber. 

In you, my bosom friend; I had called it noble:  
But such a courtesy from a Rival, merits  
The highest attribute.   Enter Galeazo and Gonzaga. Far. 

Stand on your guard, we are pursued.   Uber. 

Preserved! wonder on wonder.   Far. 

The Duke in safety?   Gon. 

Pay your thanks, Farneze,  
To this brave man, if I may call him so,  
Whose acts were more than humane: if thou art  
My better Angel, from my infancy  
Designed to guard me, like thyself appear,  
For sure thou art more than mortal.   Gal. 

No, great sir,  
A weak and sinful man, though I have done you  
Some prosperous service, that hath found your favour,  
I am lost to myself; but lose not you  
The offered opportunity to delude  
The hot pursuing enemy: these woods  
Nor the dark veil of night cannot conceal you,  
If you dwell long here: You may rise again,  
But I am fallen for ever.   Far. 

Rather borne up  
To the supreme sphere of honour.   Uber. 

I confess my life your gift.   Gon. 

My liberty: You have snatched  
The wreath of conquest from the Victor's head,  
And do alone in scorn of Lorenzo's fortune  
Though we are slaved, by true heroic valour  
Deserve a triumph.   Uber. 

From whence then proceeds this poor dejection?   Gal: 

In one suit I'll tell you,  
Which I beseech you grant:— I loved your daughter,  
But how? as beggars in their wounded fancy  
Hope to be Monarchs:  
I long languished for her,  
But did receive no Cordial, but what  
Despair my rough Physician prescribed me.  
At length her goodness and compassion found it.  
And whereas I expected, and with reason,  
The distance and disparity considered  
Between her birth and mine, she would contemn me,  
The Princess gave me comfort.   Gon. 

In what measure?   Gal. 

She did admit me for her Knight and servant,  
And spurred me to do something in this battle  
Fought for her liberty, that might not blemish  
So fair a favour.   Gonza. 

This you have performed to th'height of admiration.   Uber. 

I subscribe to't, that am your Rival.   Gal. 

You are charitable:  
But how short of my hopes, nay the assurance  
Of those achievements which my love and youth  
Already held accomplished, this days fortune  
Must sadly answer. What I did, she gave me  
The strength to do; her piety preserved  
Her Father; and her gratitude for the dangers  
You threw yourself into for her defence,  
Protected you by me her instrument:  
But when I came to strike in mine own cause,  
And to do something so remarkable,  
That should at my return command her thanks  
And gracious entertainment, then alas  
I fainted like a coward; I made a vow too  
(And it is registered) ne'er to presume  
To come into her presence, if I brought not  
Her fears and dangers bound in fetters to her,  
Which now's impossible.— Hark, the enemy  
Makes his approaches: save yourselves, this only  
Deliver to her Sweetness; I have done  
My poor endeavours, and pray her not repent  
Her goodness to me: May you live to serve her,  
This loss recovered, with a happier fate,  
And make use of this sword: Arms I abjure,  
And conversation of men; I'll seek out  
Some unfrequented cave, and die Loves martyr.   Exit Gonza. 

Follow him.   Uber. 

'Tis in vain; his nimble feet  
Have born him from my sight.   Gonza. 

I suffer for him:   Far. 

We share in it, but must not sir forget  
Your means of safety.   Uber. 

In the war I have served you,  
And to the death will follow you.   Gonz. 

'Tis not fit,  
We must divide ourselves.  
My daughter, if I retain yet  
A sovereign's power o'er thee, or friends with you,  
Do, and dispute not; by my example change  
Your habits: As I thus put off my purple,  
Ambition dies; this garment of a shepherd  
Left here by chance will serve; in lieu of it  
I leave this to the owner. Raise new forces,  
And meet me at S. Leo's Fort; my daughter,  
As I commanded Manfroy, there will meet us.  
The City cannot hold out, we must part,  
Farewell, thy hand—   Far. 

You still shall have my heart.   Exeunt. Enter Lorenzo, Alonzo, Pisano, Martino, Captains, Soldiers. Loren. 

The day is ours, though it cost dear; yet 'tis not  
Enough to get a victory, if we lose  
The true use of it. We have hitherto  
Held back your forward swords, and in our fear  
Of ambushes, deferred the wished reward  
Due to your bloody toil: But now give freedom,  
Nay, licence to your fury and revenge;  
Now glut yourselves with prey, let not the night  
Nor these thick woods give sanctuary to  
The fear-struck Hares our Enemies: fire these trees,  
And force the wretches to forsake their holes,  
And offer their scorched bodies to your swords,  
Or burn'em as a sacrifice to your angers.  
Who brings Gonzaga's head, or takes him prisoner,  
(Which I incline to rather) that he may  
Be sensible of those tortures, which I vow  
T'inflict upon him, for denial of  
His daughter to our bed) shall have a Blank  
With our hand and signet made authentical,  
In which he may write down himself, what wealth  
Or honours he desires   Alon. 

The great Dukes will shall be obeyed   Pisa. 

Put it in execution.   Mar. 

begird the wood, and fire it.   Sold. 

Follow, follow.   Exeunt. Enter Farneze (with a Florentine soldiers coat.) 

Uberti, Prince Uberti! O my friend  
Dearer than life! I have lost thee. Cruel fortune,  
Unsatisfied with our sufferings! We no sooner  
Were parted from the Duke, and even then ready  
To make a mutual farewell, when a troop  
Of the enemy's horse fell on us: we were forced  
To take the woods again, but in our flight  
Their hot pursuit divided us: we had been happy  
If we had died together; to survive him  
To me is worse than death, and therefore should not  
Embrace the means of my escape, though offered.  
When nature gave us life, she gave a burden,  
But at our pleasure not to be cast off,  
Though weary of it; and my reason prompts me,  
This habit of a Florentine which I took  
From a dying soldier, may keep me unknown  
Till opportunity mark me out a way  
For flight, and with security.   Enter Uberti. 

Was there ever such a night of horror?   Far. 

My friend's voice! I now  
In part forgive thee, fortune.   Uber. 

The wood flames,  
The bloody sword devours all that it meets,  
And death in several shapes rides here in triumph.  
I am like a Stag closed in a toil; my life  
As soon as found, the cruel Huntsman's prey:  
Why fliest thou then what is inevitable?  
Better to fall with manly wounds before  
Thy cruel Enemy, then survive thine honour:  
And yet to charge him, and die unrevenged,  
Mere desperation.   Far. 

Heroic spirit!   Uber. 

Mine own life I contemn, and would not save it  
But for the future service of the Duke  
And safety of his daughter; having means,  
If I escape, to raise a second Army,  
And what is nearest to me, to enjoy  
My friend Farneze.   Far. 

I am still his care:   Uber. 

What shall I do? If I call loud, the foe  
That hath begirt the wood, will hear the sound.  
Shall I return by the same path? I cannot,  
The darkness of the night conceals it from me:  
Something I must resolve.   Far. 

Let friendship rouse  
Thy sleeping soul, Farneze: wilt thou suffer  
Thy friend, a Prince, nay one that may set free  
Thy captived Country, perish, when 'tis in  
Thy power with this disguise to save his life?  
Thou hast lived too long, therefore resolve to die;  
Thou hast seen thy Country ruined, and thy Master  
Compelled to shameful flight, the fields and woods  
Strawed o'er with carcases of thy fellow-soldiers:  
The miseries thou art fallen in, and before  
Thy eyes the horror of this place, and thousand  
Calamities to come; and after all these  
Can any hope remain? shake off delays,  
Dost thou doubt yet? To save a Citizen,  
The conquering Roman in a General  
Esteemed the highest honour; can it be then  
Inglorious to preserve a Prince? thy friend?  
Uberti, Prince Uberti, use this means  
Of thy escape; concealed in this thou mayst  
Pass through the enemy's guards: the time denies  
Longer discourse; thou hast a noble end,  
Live therefore mindful of thy ding friend:   Exit. Uber. 

Farneze, stay thy hasty steps: Farneze!  
Thy friend Uberti calls thee: 'tis in vain,  
He's gone to death an Innocent, and makes life  
The benefit he confers on me, my guilt.  
Thou art too covetous of another's safety,  
Too prodigal, and careless of thine own:  
'Tis a deceit in friendship to enjoin me  
To put this garment on, and live, that he  
May have alone the honour to die nobly.  
O cruel piety, in our equal danger  
To rob thyself of that thou givest thy friend!  
It must not be, I will restore his gift  
And die before him. How? where shall I find him?  
Thou art o'ercome in friendship; yield Uberti  
To the extremity of the time, and live:  
A heavy ransom, but it must be paid.  
I will put on this habit: pitying Heaven  
As it loves goodness, may protect my friend,  
And give me means to satisfy the debt  
I stand engaged for; if not, pale despair  
I dare thy worst, thou canst but bid me die,  
And so much I'll force from an enemy.   Exit. Enter Alonzo, Pisano, Farneze (bound) Soldiers (with torches) Farneze's sword in one of the soldier's hands. Alon. 

I know him, he's a man of ransom.   Pisa. 

True, but if he live 'tis to be paid to me:   Alon. 

I forced him to the woods.   Pisa. 

But my art found him,  
Nor will I brook a partner in the prey  
My fortune gave me.   Alon. 

Render him, or expect the point of this.   Pisa. 

Were't lightning, I would meet it  
Rather than be outbraved.   Alon. 

I thus decide the difference.   Pisa. 

My sword shall plead my title. They fight   Enter Lorenzo, Martino, two Captains. Lor. 

Ha! where learned you this discipline? my  
Commanders  
Opposed 'gainst one another? what blind fury  
Brings forth this brawl? Alonzo and Pisano  
At bloody difference! hold, or I tilt  
At both as enemies. Now speak, how grew  
This strange division?   Pisa. 

Against all right;  
By force Alonzo strives to reap the harvest  
Sown by my labour.   Alon. 

Sir, this is my prisoner,  
The purchase of my sword, which proud Pisano  
That hath no interest in him, would take from me.   Pisa. 

Did not the presence of the Duke forbid me,  
I would say—   Alon. 

What?   Pisa. 

'tis false.   Lor. 

Before my face!  
Keep 'em asunder. And was this the cause  
Of such a mortal quarrel? this the base  
To raise your fury on? the ties of blood,  
Of fellowship in arms, respect, obedience  
To me your Prince and General, no more  
Prevailing on you? this a price for which  
You would betray our victory, or wound  
Your reputation with mutinies?  
Forgetful of yourselves, allegiance, honour?  
This is a course to throw us headlong down  
From that proud height of empire, upon which  
We were securely seared: shall division  
o'erturn what concord built? If you desire  
To bathe your swords in blood, the enemy  
Still flies before you: Would you have spoil? the Country  
Lies open to you. O unheard of madness!  
What greater mischief could Gonzaga wish us,  
Than you pluck on our heads? no, my brave Leaders,  
Let unity dwell in our tents, and discord  
Be banished to our enemies   Alon. 

Take the prisoner, I do give up my title.   Pisa. 

I desire your friendship, and will buy it:  
He is yours. [They embrace.]   Alon. 

No man's a faithful Judge in his own cause;  
Let the Duke determine of him, we are friends sir.   Lor. 

Show it in emulation to o'ertake  
The flying foe; this cursed wretch disposed of,  
With our whole strength we'll follow.   Exe. Alonz. and Pisa, embracing. Far. 

Death at length  
Will set a period to calamity.  
I see it in this Tyrants frowns haste to me.   Enter Uberti like a soldier, and shuffles in among 'em. Lor. 

Thou machine of this mischief, look to feel  
whate'er the wrath of an incensed Prince  
Can pour upon thee: With thy blood I'll quench  
(But drawn forth slowly) the invisible flames  
Of discord,— by thy charms first fetched from Hell,  
Then forced into the breasts of my Commanders.  
— Bring forth the tortures.   Vber. 

Hear, victorious Duke,  
The story of my miserable fortune,  
Of which this Villain (by your sacred tongue  
Condemned to die) was the immediate cause:  
And if my humble suit have justice in it,  
Vouchsafe to grant it.   Lor. 

Soldier be brief; our anger can brook no long delay.   Vber. 

I am the last  
Of three sons, by one father got, and trained up  
With his best care for service in your wars:  
My father died under his fatal hand,  
And two of my poor brothers. Now I hear  
Or fancy wounded by my grief, deludes me,  
Their pale and mangled ghosts, crying for vengeance  
On perjury and murder.  
Thus the case stood.—  
My father (on whose face he he durst not look  
In equal mart) by his fraud circumvented,  
Became his Captive: we his sons lamenting  
Our old sire's hard condition, freely offered  
Our utmost for his ransom. That refused,  
The subtle Tyrant for his cruel ends,  
(Conceiving that our piety might ensnare us)  
Proposed my Father's head to be redeemed,  
If two of us would yield ourselves his slaves.  
We upon any terms resolved to save him,  
Though with the loss of life which he gave to us;  
With an undaunted constancy drew lots  
(For each of us contented to be one)  
Who should preserve our Father: I was exempted,  
But to my more affliction; my brothers  
Delivered up; the perjured Homicide  
Laughing in scorn, and by his hoary locks  
Pulling my wretched Father on his knees,  
Said thus, Receive the Father you have ransomed;  
And instantly struck off his head.   Lor. 

Most barbarous!   Far. 

I never saw this man.   Lor. 

One murmur more,  
I'll have thy tongue pulled out. Proceed.   Uber. 

Conceive, sir,  
How thunderstruck we stood, being made spectators  
Of such an unexpected tragedy:  
Yet this was a beginning, not an end  
To his intended cruelty; for pursuing  
Such a revenge, as no Hyrcanian tigress  
robbed of her whelps durst aim at, in a moment  
Treading upon my Father's trunk, he cut off  
My pious Brother's heads, and threw'em at me.  
Oh what a spectacle was this! what mountain  
Of sorrow overwhelmed me! My poor heartstrings  
As tentered by his tyranny, cracked; my knees  
Beating 'gainst one another, groans and tears  
Blended together followed; not one passion  
Calamity ever yet expressed, forgotten.  
Now mighty sir, (bathing your feet with tears)  
Your suppliants suit is, that he may have leave  
With any cruelty revenge can fancy,  
To sacrifice this Monster, to appease  
My Father's ghost and Brothers.   Lor. 

Thou hast obtained it; choose any torture; let the memory  
Of what thy Father and thy Brothers suffered  
Make thee ingenious in it, such a one  
As Phalaris would wish to be called his.  
Martino, guarded with your soldiers, see  
The execution done; but bring his head  
On forfeiture of your own, to us: Our presence  
Long since was elsewhere looked for.   Ex. cum suit. Mar. 

Soldier to work; take any way thou wills for thy revenge,  
Provided that he dies: his body's thine,  
But I must have his head.   Uber. 

I have already  
Concluded of the manner: O just heaven,  
The instrument I wished for offered me!   Mar. 

Why art thou rapped thus?   Uber: 

In this soldier's hand  
I see the murderers own sword, I know it,  
Yes, this is it by which my Father and  
My brothers were beheaded: Noble Captain  
Command it to my hand. Stand forth and tremble;  
This weapon of late drunk with innocent blood  
Shall now carouse thine own. Pray, if thou canst;  
For though the world shall not redeem thy body,  
I would not kill thy soul.   Far. 

Canst thou believe  
There is a heaven, or hell, or soul? thou hast none.  
In death to rob me of my fame, my honour,  
With such a forged lie? tell me thou hangman,  
Where did I ever see thy face? or when  
Murdered thy sire or brothers? look on me  
And make it good: thou dar'st not.   Uber. 

Yes I will [Unbinds his arms]  
In one short whisper, and that told thou art dead.  
I am Uberti; take thy sword, fight bravely,  
We'll live or die together.   Mar. 

We are betrayed.   Far. 

And have I leave once more, brave Prince, to ease Mar. struck down, the soldiers run away.  
My head on thy true bosom?   Uber. 

I glory more  
To be thy friend, then in the name of Prince  
Or any higher title.   Far. 

My preserver!   Uber. 

The life you gave to me, I but return;  
And pardon, dearest friend, the bitter language  
Necessity made me use.   Far. 

O sir, I am  
Outdone in all; but comforted, that none  
But you can wear the laurel,   Uber. 

Here's no place  
Or time to argue this; let us fly hence.   Far. 

I follow.   Exeunt. Mar. 

A thousand Furies keep you company!  
I was at the gate of— but now I feel  
My wounds not mortal; I was but astonished,  
And coming to myself, I find I am  
Reserved for the gallows: there's no looking on  
Th'enraged Duke, excuses will not serve,  
I must do something that may get my pardon:  
If not, I know the worst, a halter ends all.   Exit.  

Act. 3. Scaen. 1.  Enter Octavio, (a Book in's hand.) Oct. 

'TIs true, by proof I find it, humane reason  
Views with such dim eyes what is good or ill,  
That if the great Disposer of our being  
Should offer to our choice all worldly blessings,  
We knew not what to take.—  
When I was young,  
Ambition of Court-preferment fired me;  
And as there were no happiness beyond it,  
I laboured for't and got it; no man stood  
In greater favour with his Prince, I had  
Honours and offices, wealth flowed in to me,  
And for my service both in peace and war  
The general voice gave out I did deserve 'em.  
But oh vain confidence in subordinate greatness!  
When I was most secure, it was not in  
The power of fortune to remove me from  
The flat I firmly stood on: in a moment  
My virtues were made crimes, and popular favour  
(To new-raised men still fatal) bred suspicion  
That I was dangerous: which no sooner entered  
Gonzago's breast, but straight my ruin followed:  
My offices were took from me, my state seized on;  
And had I not prevented it by flight,  
The jealousy of the Duke had been removed  
With the forfeiture of my head.  
[Within Galeaz ]Or show compassion, or I will force it.   Oct. 

Ha! is not poverty safe?  
I thought proud war that aimed at kingdoms ruins,  
The sack of palaces and cities, scorned  
To look on a poor cottage.   Enter Galeazo (with Ascanio in's arms) Gothrio following. Goth. 

What would you have?  
The devil sleeps in my pocket, I have no cross  
To drive him from it. Be you or thief, or soldier,  
Or such a beggar as will not be denied,  
My scrip, my tar-box, hook and coat will prove  
But a thin purchase; if you turn my inside  
Outwards, you'll find it true.  
Searches his scrip.   Gal. 

Not any food?   Goth. 

Alas sir,  
I am no glutton, but an under-shepherd,  
The very picture of famine; judge by my cheeks else:  
I have my pittance by ounces, and starve myself;  
When I pay a pensioner, I have an ancient mouse,  
A crumb a meal. [Takes the bottle.]   Gal. 

No drop left?  
Drunkard, hast thou swilled up all?   Goth. 

How? Drunkard, sir! I am a poor man, you mistake me sir:  
Drunkard's a title for the rich, my betters;  
A calling in repute, some sell their lands for't,  
And roar wines better than money. Our poor beverage  
Of buttermilk or whey allayed with water,  
ne'er raise our thoughts so high. Drunk! I had never  
The credit to be so yet.   Gal. 

Ascanio, look up dear youth: Ascanio, did thy sweetness  
Command the greedy enemy to forbear  
To prey upon it? and I thank my fortune  
For suffering me to live, that in some part  
I might return thy courtesies: And now  
To heighten my afflictions, must I be  
Enforced, no pitying Angel near to help us,  
Heaven deaf to my complaints too, to behold thee  
Die in my arms for hunger? no means left  
To lengthen life a little? I will open  
A vein, and pour my blood, not yet corrupted  
With any sinful act, but pure as he is,  
Into his famished mouth.   Octa. 

Young man forbear  
Thy savage pity; I have better means  
To call back flying life.   Goth. 

You may believe him,  
They apply themselves to Ascanio.  
It is his sucking-bottle, and confirms  
An old man's twice a child; his nurse's milk  
Was ne'er so chargeable: should you put in too  
For soap and candles, though he sell his flock for't,  
The baby must have this dug: he swears 'tis ill  
For my complexion, but wondrous comfortable  
For an old man that would never die   Oct. 

Hope well sir,  
A temperate heat begins to thaw his numbness,  
The blood too by degrees takes fresh possession  
On his pale cheeks, his pulse beats high; stand off,  
Give him more air, he stirs: [Goth. steals the bottle.]   Goth. 

And have I got thee, thou bottle of immortality?   Asca. 

Where am I?  
What cruel hand hath forced back wretched life?  
Is rest in death denied me?   Goth. 

O sweet liquour!  
Were here enough to make me drunk, I might  
Write myself Gentleman, and never buy  
A coat of the Heralds.   Oct. 

How now slave?   Goth. 

I was fainting,  
A clownlike qualm seized on me, but I am  
Recovered, thanks to your bottle, and begin  
To feel new stirrings, gallant thoughts; one draught more  
Will make me a perfect Signior:   Oct. 

A tough cudgel  
Will take this gentle itch off: Home to my cottage,  
See all things handsome.   Goth. 

Good sir, let me have  
The bottle along to smell to: O rare perfume!   Ex: Gal. 

Speak once more, dear Ascanio! How he eyes you,  
Then turns away his face! Look up sweet youth,  
The object cannot hurt you; this good man  
Next heaven is your preserver.   Asc. 

Would I had perished  
Without relief, rather than live to break  
His good old heart with sorrow. O my shame!  
My shame, my never dying shame!   Oct. 

I have been  
Acquainted with this voice, and know the face too:  
'Tis she, 'tis too apparent; O my daughter!  
I mourned long for thy loss; but thus to find thee,  
Is more to be lamented.   Gal. 

How? your daughter!   Oct. 

My only child: I murmured against heaven  
Because I had no more; but now I find  
This one too many. Is Alonzo glutted [Asc weeps]  
With thy embraces?   Gal. 

At his name a shower  
Of tears falls from her eyes: she faints again.  
Grave sir, overrule your passion, and defer  
The story of your fortune: On my life  
She is a worthy one, her innocence  
Might be abused, but mischief's self wants power  
To make her guilty. Show yourself a Father  
In her recovery; then as a Judge,  
When she hath strength to speak in her own cause,  
You may determine of her.   Oct. 

I much thank you  
For your wise counsel: you direct me sir  
As one indebted more to years, and I  
As a pupil will obey you. Not far hence  
I have a homely dwelling; if you please there  
To make some short repose, your entertainment  
Though course, shall relish of a gratitude,  
And that's all I can pay you. Look up Girl,  
Thou art in thy Father's arms.   Gal. 

She's weak and faint still:  
O spare your age! I am young and strong, and this way  
To serve her is a pleasure, not a burden:  
Pray you lead the way.   Oct. 

The Saints reward your goodness.   Exeunt. Enter Manfroy, and Matilda (disguised.) Mat. 

No hope of safety left?   Manf. 

We are descried.   Mat. 

I thought, that covered in this poor disguise  
I might have passed unknown:   Manf. 

A diamond, though set in horn, is still a diamond,  
And sparkles as in purest gold. We are followed:  
Out of the troops that scoured the plains, I saw  
Two gallant horsemen break forth, (who by their  
Brave furniture and habiliments for the war  
Seemed to command the rest) spurring hard towards us;  
See with what winged speed they climb the hill  
Like Falcons on the stretch to seize the prey;  
Now they dismount, and on their hands and knees  
o'ercome the deep ascent that guards us from him.  
Your beauty hath betrayed you; for it can  
No more be night when bright Apollo shines  
In our Meridian, than that be concealed.   Mat. 

It is my curse, not blessing; fatal to  
My Country, Father, and myself: why did you  
Forsake the City?   Manf. 

'Twas the Duke's command,  
No time to argue that; we must descend:  
If undiscovered your soft feet (unused  
To such rough travail) can but carry you  
Half a league hence, I know a cave which will.  
Yield us protection.   Mat. 

I wish I could lend you  
Part of my speed; for me, I can outstrip  
Daphne or Atalanta.   Manf. 

Some good Angel  
Defend us, and strike blind our hot pursuers.   Exeunt. Enter Alonzo and Pisano. Alon. 

She cannot be far off; how gloriously  
She showed to us in the valley!   Pisa. 

In my thought  
Like to a blazing Comet:   Alon. 

Brighter far:  
Her beams of beauty made the hill all fire;  
From whence removed, 'tis covered with thick clouds.  
But we lose time; I'll take that way.   Pisa. 

I this.   Exeunt. Enter Galeazo. 

'Tis a degree of comfort in my sorrow.  
I have done one good work in reconciling  
Maria, long hid in Ascanio's habit,  
To grieved Octavio: what a sympathy  
I found in their affections! she with tears  
Making a free confession of her weakness  
In yielding up her honour to Alonzo,  
Upon his vows to marry her: Octavio  
Prepared to credit her excuses, nay  
T'extenuate her guilt; she the Delinquent,  
And Judge, as 'twere, agreeing. But to me  
The most forlorn of men, no beam of comfort  
Deigns to appear; nor can I in my fancy  
Fashion a means to get it: To my Country  
I am lost for ever, and 'twere impudence  
To think of a return; yet this I could  
Endure with patience: But to be divorced  
From all my joy on earth, the happiness  
To look upon the excellence of nature,  
That is perfection in himself, and needs not  
Addition or epithet, Rare Matilda,  
Would make a Saint blaspheme. Here Galeazo  
In this obscure abode 'tis fit thou shouldst  
Consume thy youth, and grow old in lamenting  
Thy star crossed fortune, in this shepherd's habit;  
This hook thy best defence, since thou couldst use  
(When thou didst fight in such a Princess cause)  
Thy sword no better. [Lies down]   Enter Alonzo, Pisano, Matilda. Mat. 

Are you men, or monsters?  
Whither will you drag me? can the open ear  
Of heaven be deaf, when an unspotted Maid  
Cries out for succour!   Pisa. 

'Tis in vain; cast lots who shall enjoy her first.   Alon. 

Flames rage within me,  
And such a spring of Nectar near to quench 'em!  
My appetite shall be cloyed first: here I stand  
Thy friend, or enemy; let me have precedence,  
I write a friend's name in my heart; deny it,  
As an enemy I defy thee.   Pisa. 

Friend or foe  
In this alike I value, I disdain  
To yield priority; draw thy sword.   Alon. 

To sheath it in thy ambitious heart.   Mat. 

O curb this fury,  
And hear a wretched Maid first speak!   Gal. 

I am marble:   Mat. 

Where shall I seek out words, or how restrain  
My enemy's rage, or Lovers? oh the latter  
Is far more odious: did not your lust  
Provoke you, for that is its proper name,  
My chastity were safe;  
And yet I tremble more  
To think what dire effects lust may bring forth,  
Then what as enemies you can inflict,  
And less I fear it. Be friends to yourselves,  
And enemies to me: Better I fall  
A sacrifice to your atonement, then  
Or one, or both should perish. I am the cause  
Of your division; remove it, Lords,  
And concord will spring up: poison this face  
That hath bewitched you; this grove cannot want  
Aspics or Toads, creatures though justly called  
For their deformity the scorn of nature,  
More happy than myself with this false beauty  
(The seed and fruit of mischief) you admire so.  
I thus embrace your knees, and yours a suppliant,  
If Tigers did not nurse you, or you suck  
The milk of a fierce Lioness, show compassion  
Unto yourselves in being reconciled,  
And pity to poor me, my honour safe,  
In taking loathed life from me.   Pisa. 

What shall we do?  
Or end our difference in killing her,  
Or fight it out?   Alon. 

To the last gasp. I feel  
The moist tears on my cheeks, and blush to find  
A virgin's plaints can move so.   Pisa. 

To prevent  
Her flight while we contend, let's bind her fast  
To this Cypress-tree.   Alon. 

Agreed.   Mat. 

It does presage my funeral rites.   Gal. 

I shall turn Atheist,  
If heaven see and suffer this: why did I  
Abandon my good sword? with unarmed hands  
I cannot rescue her. Some Angel pluck me  
From the apostasy I am falling to,  
And by a miracle lend me a weapon  
To underprop falling honour.   Pisa. 

She is fast, resume your arms.   Alon. 

Honour, revenge, the Maid too  
Lie at the stake.   Pisa. 

Which thus I draw— They fight, Pisano falls.   Alon. 

All's mine,  
But bought with some blood of mine own: Pisano,  
Thou wert a noble Enemy; wear that laurel  
In death to comfort thee; for the reward,  
'Tis mine now without Rival. Galeazo snatches up Pisano's sword.   Gal. 

Thou art deceived;  
Men will grow up like to the dragon's teeth  
From Cadmus' helm sown in the field of Mars,  
To guard pure Chastity from lust and rape.  
Libidinous monster, Satire, Fawn, or what  
Does better speak thee slave to appetite  
And sensual baseness; if thy profane hand  
But touch this virgin-temple, thou art dead.   Mat. 

I see the aid of Heaven, though slow, is sure.   Alon. 

A rustic swain dare to retard my pleasure?   Gal. 

No swain, Alonzo, but her knight and servant  
To whom the world should owe and pay obedience;  
One that thou hast encountered, and shrunk under  
His arm, that spared thy life in the late battle  
At th'intercession of the Princess page; look on me better.   Mat. 

'Tis my virtuous Lover,  
Under his guard 'twere sin to doubt my safety.   Alon. 

I know thee, and with courage will redeem  
What fortune then took from me.   Gal. 

Rather keep [Fight. Alon. falls.]  
Thy Compeer company in death— lie by him  
A prey for Crows and vultures; these fair arms He unbinds Matilda.  
Unfit for bonds, should have been chains to make  
A Bridegroom happy, though a Prince, and proud  
Of such captivity: whatsoe'er you are,  
I glory in the service I have done you;  
But I entreat you pay your vows and prayers  
For preservation of your life and honour,  
To the most virtuous Princess, chaste Matilda:  
I am her creature, and what good I do  
You truly may call hers; what's ill, mine own.   Mat. 

You never did do ill, my virtuous servant,  
Nor is it in the power of poor Matilda  
To cancel such an obligation as  
With humble willingness she must subscribe to.   Gal. 

The Princess? ha!   Mat. 

Give me a fitter name,  
Your manumissed Bondwoman, but even now  
In the possession of lust, from which  
Your more than brave heroic valour bought me;  
And can I then for freedom unexpected  
But kneel to you my Patron?   Gal. 

Kneel to me!  
For heaven's sake rise; I kiss the ground you tread on,  
My eyes fixed on the earth; for I confess  
I am a thing not worthy to look on you,  
Till you have signed my pardon.   Mat. 

Do you interpret  
The much good you have done me, an offence?   Gal. 

The not performing your injunctions to me,  
Is more than capital: Your allowance of  
My love and service to you, with admission  
To each place you made paradise with your presence,  
Should have enabled me to bring home Conquest.  
Then, as a sacrifice to offer it  
At the altar of your favour, had my love  
Answered your bounty or my hopes, an Army  
Had been as dust before me; whereas I  
Like a coward turned my back, and durst not stand  
The fury of the Enemy.   Mat. 

Had you done nothing  
In the battle, this last act deserves more  
Than I, the Duke my father joining with me,  
Can ever recompense. But take your pleasure,  
Suppose you have offended in not grasping  
Your boundless hopes; I thus seal on your lips  
A full remission.   Gal. 

Let mine touch your foot, your hand's too high a favour.   Mat. 

Will you force me to ravish a kiss from you?   Gal. 

I am entranced.   Mat. 

So much Desert, and Bashfulness, should not march  
In the same file: Take comfort, when you have brought me  
To some place of security, you shall find  
You have a seat here, a heart that hath  
Already studied, and vowed to be thankful.   Gal. 

Heaven make me so! oh I am overwhelmed  
With an excess of joy! Be not too prodigal,  
Divinest Lady, of your grace and bounties  
At once, if you are pleased I shall enjoy 'em,  
Not taste 'em and expire.   Mat. 

I'll be more sparing:   Exeunt. Enter Octavio, Gothrio, and Maria. Oct. 

What noise of clashing swords, like armour fashioned  
Upon an anvil, pierced mine ears? the echo  
Redoubling the loud sound through all the valleys,  
This way the wind assures me that it came.   Goth. 

Then with your pardon I'll take this.   Oct. 

Why sirrah?   Goth. 

Because, sir, I will trust my heels before  
All winds that blow in the sky: We are wiser far  
Than our Grandsires were, and in this I'll prove it;  
They said, Haste to the beginning of a Feast,  
(There I am with 'em) but to the end of a Fray,  
That is apocryphal, 'tis more canonical  
Not to come there at all; after a storm  
There are still some drops behind.   Asc. 

Pure fear hath made the Fool a Philosopher.   Oct. 

See Maria, see!  
I did not err; here lie two brave men weltering  
In their own gore.   Asc. 

A pitiful object.   Goth. 

I am in a swoon to look on't.   Oct. 

They are stiff already.   Goth. 

But are you sure they are dead?   Oct. 

Too sure, I fear.   Goth 

But are they stark dead?   Oct. 

Leave prating.   Goth. 

Then I am valiant, and dare come nearer to 'em,  
This fellow without a sword shall be my Patient.   Oct. 

Whatever they are, humanity commands us  
To do our best endeavour: Run Maria  
To the neighbour Spring for water; you will find there  
A wooden dish, the beggar's plate, to bring it.   Exit Maria. 

Why dost not, dull drone, bend his body, and feel  
If any life remain?   Goth. 

By your leave he shall die first, and then  
I'll be his Surgeon.   Oct. 

Tear open his doublet,  
And prove if his wounds be mortal,   Goth. 

Fear not me sir;  
Here's large wound, how it is swollen and impostumed! His pocket  
This must be cunningly drawn out; should it break, pulls out his purse.  
'Twould strangle him: what a deal of foul matter's here! His little pocket.  
This hath been long a gathering: Here's a gash too  
On the reme of his belly, it may have matter in it.  
He was a choleric man sure: what comes from him Gold  
Is yellow as gold: How troubled with the Stone too! A Diamond-Ring  
I'll cut you for this.   Pisa. 

Oh, oh! Starts up and quakes   Goth. 

He roars before I touch him.   Pisa. 

Robbed of my life?   Goth. 

No sir, nor of your money  
Nor jewel, I keep 'em for you; if I had been  
A perfect Mountebank, he had not lived  
To call for his fees again.   Oct. 

Give me leave, there's hope of his recovery.   Goth. 

I had rather bury him quick  
Then part with my purchase; let his ghost walk, I care not.   Enter Maria (with a dish of water.) Oct. 

Well done Maria, lend thy helping hand;  
He hath a deep wound in his head, wash off  
The clotted blood: He comes to himself.   Alon. 

My lust!  
The fruit that grows upon the tree of lust!  
With horror now I taste it.   Oct. 

Do you not know him?   Asc. 

Too soon, Alonzo! oh me! though disloyal,  
Still dear to thy Maria.   Goth. 

So they know not  
My Patient, all's cocksure: I do not like  
The Romanish restitution.   Oct. 

Rise and leave him, applaud heaven's justice.   Asc. 

'Twill become me better  
T'implore its saving mercy.   Oct. 

Hast thou no gall? no feeling of thy wrongs?   Asc. 

Turtles have none; nor can there be such poison in her breast  
That truly loves, and lawfully.   Oct. 

True, if that love  
Be placed on a worthy subject. What he is,  
In thy disgrace is published; Heaven hath marked him  
For punishment, and 'twere rebellious madness  
In thee t'attempt to alter it: Revenge,  
A sovereign balm for injuries, is more proper  
To thy robbed honour. Join with me, and thou  
Shalt be thyself the Goddess of revenge,  
This wretch the vassal of thy wrath: I'll make him  
While yet he lives, partake those torments which  
For perjured Lovers are prepared in hell,  
Before his cursed ghost enter it. This oil  
Extracted and sublimed from all the simples  
The earth when swollen with venom e'er brought forth,  
Poured in his wounds, shall force such anguish as  
The furies' whips but imitate; and when  
Extremity of pain shall hasten death,  
Here is another that shall keep in life,  
And make him feel a perpetuity of lingering tortures.   Goth. 

knock'em both on the head, I say,  
And it be but for their skins; they are embroidered,  
And will sell well i'th' market:   Asc. 

Ill-looked Devil,  
Tie up thy bloody tongue. O sir! I was slow  
In beating down those propositions which  
You urge for my revenge; my reasons being  
So many, and so forcible, that make  
Against yours, that until I had collected  
My scattered powers, I wavered in my choice  
Which I should first deliver. Fate hath brought  
My Enemy (I can faintly call him so)  
Prostrate before my feet: shall I abuse  
The bounty of my fate, by trampling on him?  
He alone ruined me, nor can any hand  
But his rebuild my late demolished honour.  
If you deny me means of reparation  
To satisfy your spleen, you are more cruel  
Than ever yet Alonzo was; you stamp  
The name of Strumpet on my forehead, which  
heaven's mercy would take off; you fan the fire  
e'en ready to go out; forgetting that  
'Tis truly noble, having power to punish,  
Nay Kinglike to forbear it. I would purchase  
My husband by such benefits, as should make him  
Confess himself my equal, and disclaim superiority.   Oct. 

My blessing on thee!  
What I urged, was a trial; and my grant  
To thy desires shall now appear, if art  
Or long experience can do him service,  
Nor shall my charity to this be wanting,  
howe'er unknown: Help me Maria; You sir,  
Do your best to raise him.— So.   Goth. 

He's wondrous heavy;  
But the Porter's paid, there's the comfort.   Oct. 

'Tis but a trance, and 'twill forsake both.   Asc. 

If he live, I fear not  
He will redeem all, and in thankfulness  
Confirm he owes you for a second life,  
And pays the debt in making me his wife.   Exeunt.  

Act. 4. Scaen. 1.  Enter Lorenzo, Captains. Lor. 

MAntua is ours; place a strong garrison in it  
To keep it so; and as a due reward  
To your brave service, be our Governor in it.   1 Capt: 

I humbly thank your Excellence.   Exit. Lor. 

Gonzaga is yet out of our gripe; but his strong Fort  
St. Leo, which he holds impregnable  
By the aids of art, as nature, shall not long  
Retard our absolute conquest. The escape  
Of fair Matilda, my supposed Mistress,  
(For whole desired possession 'twas given out  
I made this war) I value not; alas  
Cupid's too feeble-eyed to hit my heart,  
Or could he see, his arrows are too blunt  
To pierce it; his imagined torch is quenched  
With a more glorious fire of my ambition  
T'enlarge my Empire: soft and silken amours,  
With Carpet-Courtship, which weak PRINCE's style  
The happy issue of a flourishing peace,  
My toughness scorns: Were there an abstract made  
Of all the eminent and canonised Beauties  
By truth recorded, or by Poets feigned,  
I could unmoved behold it, as a Picture  
Commend the workmanship, and think no more on't;  
I have more noble ends. Have you not heard yet  
Of Alonzo, or Pisano?   2 Cap 

My Lord, of neither.   Lor. 

Two turbulent spirits unfit for discipline,  
Much less command in war; if they were lost,  
I shall not pine with mourning.   Enter Martino, Matilda, Galeazo, and Guard. Mart. 

Bring 'em forward;  
This will make my peace, though I had killed his father,  
Besides the reward that follows.   Lor. 

Ha! Martino?  
Where is Farneze's head? dost thou stare? and where  
The soldier that desired the torture of him?   Mart: 

An't please your Excellence—   Lor. 

It doth not please us; are our commands obeyed?   Mart. 

Farneze's head, sir,  
Is a thing not worth your thought, the soldiers less sir:  
I have brought your Highness such a head, a head  
So well set on too, a fine head.   Lor. 

Take that Strikes him  
For thy impertinence: what head, ye Rascal?   Mart. 

My Lord, if they that bring such presents to you  
Are thus rewarded, there are few will strive  
To be near your grace's pleasures: but I know  
You will repent your choler. Here's the head,  
And now I draw the curtain, it hath a face too,  
And such a face.   Lor. 

Ha!   Mart. 

View her all o'er, my Lord;  
My company on't, she's sound of wind and limb,  
And will do her labour tightly, a Bona Roba:  
And for her face, as I said, there are five hundred  
City-dubbed Madams in the Dukedom, that would part with  
Their Jointures to have such another: Hold up your head, Maid.   Lor. 

Of what age is the day?   Mart. 

Sir, since Sunrising about two hours:   Lor. 

Thou liest: the Sun of Beauty  
In modest blushes on her cheeks, but now  
Appeared to me, and in her tears breaks forth  
As through a shower in April, every drop  
An orient pearl, which as it falls, congealed,  
Were Earrings for the Catholic King,  
Worn on his birthday.   Mart. 

Here's a sudden change.   Lor. 

Incensed Cupid, whom even now I scorned,  
Hath took his stand, and by reflection shines  
(As if he had two bodies, or indeed  
A brother-twin, whom sight cannot distinguish)  
In her fair eyes; see how they head their arrows  
With her bright beams, now frown, as if my heart  
Rebellious to their edicts, were unworthy,  
Should I rip up my bosom, to receive  
A wound from such divine artillery.   Mart. 

I am made for ever:   Mat. 

We are lost, dear servant.   Gal. 

virtue's but a word; Fortune rules all.   Mat. 

We are her Tennis-balls.   Lor. 

Allow her fair, her symmetry and features  
So well proportioned, as the heavenly object  
With admiration would strike Ovid dumb,  
Nay force him to forget his faculty  
In verse, and celebrate her praise in prose:  
What's this to me? I that have passed my youth  
Unscorched with wanton fires, my sole delight  
In glittering arms, my conquering sword my mistress;  
Neighing of barbed horse, the cries and groans  
Of vanquished foes suing for life, my music:  
And shall I in the Autumn of my age,  
Now when I wear the livery of time  
Upon my head and beard, suffer myself  
To be transformed, and like a puling Lover  
With arms thus folded up, echo Ay me's!  
And write myself a Bondman to my Vassal?  
It must not, nay it shall not be: Remove  
The object, and the effect dies. Nearer, Martino:   Mart. 

I shall have a Regiment, Colonel Martino,  
I cannot go less.   Lor. 

What thing is this thou hast brought me?   Mart. 

What thing? Heaven bless me, are you a Florentine?  
Nay, the Great Duke of Florentines, and having had her  
So long in your power, do you now ask what she is?  
Take her aside and learn; I have brought you that  
I look to be dearly paid for.   Lor. 

I am a Soldier; and use of women will, Martino, rob  
My nerves of strength.   Mart. 

All armour, and no smock?  
Abominable! A little of the one with the other  
Is excellent: I ne'er knew General yet,  
Nor Prince that did deserve to be a Worthy,  
But he desired to have his sweat washed off  
By a juicy Bedfellow.   Lor. 

But say she be unwilling to do that office?   Mart. 

Wrestle with her, I will wager  
Ten to one on your grace's side.   Lor. 

Slave, hast thou brought me  
Temptation in a Beauty not to be  
With prayers resisted; and in place of council  
To master my affections, and to guard  
My honour now besieged by lust, with the arms  
Of sober temperance, mark me out a way  
To be a ravisher? Would thou hadst shown me  
Some monster, though in a more ugly form  
Then Nile or Afrique ever bred. The Basilisk  
(Whose envious eye yet never brooked a neighbour)  
Kills but the body; Her more potent eye  
Buries alive mine honour: shall I yield thus?  
And all brave thoughts of victory and triumphs,  
The spoils of Nations, the loud applauses  
Of happy subjects made so by my conquests;  
And what's the crown of all, a glorious name  
ensculpt on Pyramids to posterity,  
Be drenched in Lethe, and no object take me  
But a weak Woman, rich in colours only,  
Too delicate a touch, and some rare features  
Which age or sudden sickness will take from her,  
And where's then the reward of all my service?  
Love-soothing passions, nay idolatry  
I must pay to her. Hence, and with thee take  
This second, but more dangerous Pandora,  
Whose fatal box, if opened, will pour on me  
All mischiefs that mankind is subject to.  
To the deserts with this Circe, this Calipso,  
This fair enchantress; let her spells and charms  
Work upon beasts and thee, than whom wise nature  
ne'er made a viler creature.   Mat. 

Happy exile!   Gal. 

Some spark of hope remains yet.   Mart. 

Come, you are mine now;  
I will remove her where your Highness shall not  
Or see or hear more of her: what a sum  
Will she yield for the Turk's Seraglio?   Lor. 

Stay, I feel  
A sudden alteration.   Mart. 

Here are fine whimsies.   Lor. 

Why should I part with her? can any foulness  
Inhabit such a clean and gorgeous palace?  
The fish, the fowl, the beasts may safer leave  
The elements they were nourished in, and live,  
Than I endure her absence; yet her presence  
Is a torment to me: Why do I call it so?  
My sire enjoyed a woman, I had not been else;  
He was a complete Prince, and shall I blush  
To follow his example? Oh but my choice,  
Though she gave suffrage to it, is beneath me:  
But even now in my proud thoughts I scorned  
A Princess, fair Matilda; and is't decreed  
For punishment, I straight must dote on one  
What, or from whence I know not? Grant she be  
Obscure, without a Coat or family,  
Those I can give; and yet if she were noble,  
My fondness were more pardonable. Martino,  
Dost thou know thy prisoner?   Mart. 

Do I know myself?  
I kept that for the l'envoy; 'tis the daughter  
Of your enemy, Duke Gonzaga.   Lor. 

Fair Matilda! I now call to my memory her picture,  
And find this is the substance; but her Painter  
Did her much wrong, I see it:   Mart. 

I am sure  
I tugged hard for her, here are wounds can witness,  
Before I could call her mine.   Lor. 

No matter how:  
Make thine own ransom, I will pay it for her.   Mart. 

I knew it would come at last.   Mat. 

We are lost again.   Gal. 

Variety of afflictions!   Lor. 

That his knee that never yet bowed to mortality, Kneels  
Kisses the earth, happy to bear your weight,  
I know begets your wonder. Hear the reason,  
And cast it off, Your beauty does command it:  
Till now I never saw you; fame hath been  
Too sparing in report of your perfections,  
Which now with admiration I gaze on.  
Be not afraid, fair Virgin; had you been  
Employed to mediate your Father's cause,  
My drum had been unbraced, my trumpet hung up,  
Nor had the terror of the war ere frighted  
His peaceful confines; your demands had been  
As soon as spoke, agreed to. But you'll answer,  
And may with reason; Words make no satisfaction  
For what's in fact committed. Yet take comfort,  
Something my pious love commands me do,  
Which may call down your pardon.   Mat. 

This expression  
Of reverence to your person, better suits  
Takes him up, and kneels.  
With my low fortune. That you deign to love me,  
My weakness would persuade me to believe  
(Though conscious of mine own unworthiness)  
You being as the liberal eye of heaven  
Which may shine where it pleases: Let your beams  
Of favour warm and comfort me, not consume me;  
For should your love grow to excess, I dare not  
Deliver what I fear.   Lor. 

Dry your fair eyes;  
I apprehend your doubts, and could be angry  
If humble love could warrant it, you should  
Nourish such base thoughts of me: Heaven bear witness,  
And if I break my vow, dart thunder at me,  
You are and shall be in my tent as free  
From fear of violence, as a cloistered Nun  
Kneeling before the Altar. What I purpose  
Is yet an embryon; but grown into form,  
I'll give you power to be the sweet disposer  
Of blessings unexpected; that your Father,  
Your Country, people, children yet unborn too,  
In holy hymns on Festivals shall sing  
The triumph of your beauty. On your hand  
Once more I swear it: O imperious Love!  
Look down, and as I truly do repent,  
Prosper the good ends of thy Penitent.   Exeunt. Enter Octavio and Maria. Oct. 

You must not be too sudden, my Maria,  
In being known: I am in this friar's habit  
As yet concealed; though his recovery  
Be almost certain, I must work him to  
Repentance by degrees. When I would have you  
Appear in your true shape of sorrow to  
Move his compassion, I will stamp thus, than  
You know to act your part.   Asc. 

I shall be careful.   Oct. 

If I can cure the ulcers of his mind,  
As I despair not of his Body's wounds,  
Felicity crowns my labour. Gothrio!   Goth. 

Here sir.   [Ent Gothrio] Oct. 

Desire my Patients to leave their chamber,  
And take fresh air here: how have they slept?   Goth. 

Very well sir,  
I would we were so rid of 'em.   Oct. 

Why?   Goth. 

I fear one hath the art of memory, and will  
Remember his gold and jewels: could you not minister  
A potion of forgetfulness? what would Gallants  
That are in debt, give me for such a receipt  
To pour in their Creditors drink?   Oct. 

You shall restore all,  
believe't you shall: will you please to walk?   Goth. 

Will you please to put off  
Your holy habit, and spiced conscience? One  
I think infects the other.   Exit. Oct. 

I have observed  
Compunction in Alonzo: he speaks little,  
But full of retired thoughts: The other is  
Jocund and merry, no doubt, because he hath  
The less account to make here.   Enter Alonzo: Alon. 

Reverend sir,  
I come to wait your pleasure; but my friend  
(Your creature I should say, being so myself)  
Willing to take farther repose, entreats  
Your patience a few minutes.   Oct. 

At his pleasure; pray you sit down, you are faint still.   Alon. 

Growing to strength,  
I thank your goodness: but my mind is troubled,  
Very much troubled, sir; and I desire,  
Your pious habit giving me assurance (please  
Of your skill and power that way, that you would)  
To be my my Minds physician.   Oct. 

Sir, to that  
My order binds me, if you please to unload  
The burden of your conscience, I will minister  
Such heavenly cordials as I can, and set you  
In a path that leads to comfort.   Alon. 

I will open  
My bosom's secrets to you; that I am  
A man of blood, being brought up in the wars,  
And cruel executions, my profession  
Admits not to be questioned: but in that  
Being a subject, and bound to obey  
Whatever my Prince commanded, I have left  
Some shadow of excuse: with other crimes  
As pride, lust, gluttony, it must be told  
I am besmeared all over.   Oct. 

On repentance mercy will wash it off.   Alon. 

O sir, I grant  
These sins are deadly ones; yet their frequency  
With wicked men, make them less dreadful to us.  
But I am conscious of one crime, with which  
All ills I have committed from my youth  
Put in the scale weigh nothing: such a crime,  
So odious to heaven and man, and to  
My seared up conscience so full of horror,  
As penance cannot expiate.   Oct. 

Despair not,  
'Tis impious in man to prescribe limits  
To the divine compassion; out with it.   Alonz. 

Hear then, good man; and when that I have given you  
The character of it, and confessed myself  
The wretch that acted it, you must repent  
The charity you have extended towards me.  
Not long before these wars began, I had  
Acquaintance ('tis not fit I style it Friendship,  
That being a virtue, and not to be blended  
With vicious breach of faith) with the Lord Octavio,  
The Minion of his Prince and Court, set off  
With all the pomp and circumstance of greatness:  
To this then happy man I offered service,  
And with insinuation wrought myself  
Into his knowledge, grew familiar with him,  
Ever a welcome guest. This noble Gentleman  
Was blessed with one fair daughter, (so he thought  
And boldly might believe so, for she was  
In all things excellent without a Rival)  
Till I (her Fathers mass of wealth before  
My greedy eyes, but hoodwinked to mine honour)  
With far more subtle arts then perjured Paris  
Ere practised on poor credulous Oenone,  
Besieged her Virgin-fort, in a word took it,  
No vows or imprecation forgotten  
With speed to marry her.   Oct. 

Perhaps she gave you just cause to break those vows.   Alon. 

She cause! alas  
Her innocence knew no guilt, but too much favour  
To me unworthy of it: 'twas my baseness,  
My foul ingratitude, what shall I say more?  
The good Octavio no sooner fell  
In the displeasure of his Prince, his state  
Confiscated, and he forced to leave the Court,  
And she exposed to want; but all my oaths  
And protestation of service to her,  
Like seeming flames raised by enchantment, vanished;  
This, this sits heavy here.   Oct. 

He speaks as if  
He were acquainted with my plot: You have reason  
To feel compunction, for 'twas most inhuman  
So to betray a Maid.   Alon. 

Most barbarous.   Oct. 

But does your sorrow for the fact beget  
An aptness in you to make satisfaction  
For the wrong you did her?   Alon. 

Gracious heaven! an aptness!  
It is my only study; since I tasted  
Of your compassion, these eyes ne'er were closed,  
But fearful dreams cut off my little sleep,  
And being awake in my imagination,  
Her apparition haunted me.   Oct. 

'Twas mere fancy: He stamps   Alon. 

'Twas more, grave sir, nay 'tis,  
Now it appears.   [Ent. Maria] Oct. 

Where?   Alon. 

Do you not see there the gliding shadow  
Of a fair Virgin? that is she, and wears  
The very garments that adorned her when  
She yielded to my Crocodile tears: A cloud  
Of fears and diffidence then so chased away  
Her purer white and red, as it foretold  
That I should be disloyal. Blessed shadow!  
For 'twere a sin, far, far exceeding all  
I have committed, to hope only that  
Thou art a substance: look on my true sorrow,  
Nay, souls contrition; hear again those vows  
My perjury canceled, stamped in brass, and never  
To be worn out.   [Ent. Gothrio] Asc. 

I can endure no more;  
Action, not oaths must make me reparation:  
I am Maria.   Alon. 

Can this be?   Oct. 

It is, and I Octavio.   Alon. 

Wonder on wonder!  
How shall I look on you? or with what forehead  
Desire your pardon?   Asc. 

You truly shall deserve it  
In being constant:   Oct. 

If you fall not off,  
But look on her in poverty with those eyes  
As when she was my heir in expectation  
You thought her beautiful.   Alon. 

She's in herself both Indies to me.   Goth. 

Stay, she shall not come  
A beggar to you, my sweet young Mistress! no,  
She shall not want a dower: here's white and red  
Will ask a jointure; but how you should make her  
Being a Captain, would beget some doubt,  
If you should deal with a Lawyer.   Alon. 

I have seen this purse:   Goth. 

How the world's given, I dare not say to lying,  
Because you are a Soldier; you may say as well  
This gold is marked too: you being to receive it,  
Should ne'er ask how I got it. I'll run for a Priest  
To dispatch the matter; you shall not want a Ring,  
I have one for the purpose. Now sir, I think I am honest.   Exit. Alon. 

This Ring was Pisano's.   Oct. 

I'll dissolve this riddle at better leisure:  
The wound given to my daughter, which in your honour  
You are bound to cure, exacts our present care.   Alon. 

I am all yours sir.   Exeunt. Enter Gonzaga, Uberti, Manfroy. Gonz. 

Thou hast told too much to give assurance that  
Her honour was too far engaged to be  
By humane help redeemed: If thou hadst given  
Thy sad narration this full period,  
She's dead; I had been happy.   Uber. 

Sir, these tears  
Do well become a father; and my eyes  
Would keep you company as a forlorn Lover,  
But that the burning fire of my revenge  
Dries up those drops of sorrow. We once more,  
Our broken forces rallied up, and with  
Full numbers strengthened, stand prepared to endure  
A second trial; nor let it dismay us  
That we are once again to affront the fury  
Of a victorious Army; their abuse  
Of Conquest hath disarmed themselves, and called down  
The powers above to aid us. I have read  
Some piece of story, yet ne'er found but that  
The General that gave way to cruelty,  
The profanation of things sacred, rapes  
Of virgins, butchery of infants, and  
The massacre in cold blood of reverend age,  
Against the discipline and law of Arms,  
Did feel the hand of heaven lie heavy on him,  
When most secure: We have had a late example,  
And let us not despair but that in Lorenzo  
It will be seconded.   Gonz. 

You argue well,  
And 'twere a sin in me to contradict you:  
Yet we must not neglect the means that's lent us  
To be the Ministers of Justice.   Uber. 

No, sir: One day given to refresh our wearied Troops  
tired with a tedious march, we'll be no longer  
Cooped up, but charge the Enemy in his trenches,  
And force him to a battle: [Shouts within]   Gonz. 

Ha! how's this?  
In such a general time of mourning, shouts  
And acclamations of joy?  
Long live the Princess! long live Matilda! Within they cry   Uber. 

Matilda! the Princess name,  
Matilda, oft re-echoed.   Enter Farneze. Gonz. 

What speaks thy haste?   Far. 

More joy and happiness  
Then weak words can deliver, or strong faith  
Almost give credit to: The Princess lives,  
I saw her, kissed her hand.   Gonz. 

By whom delivered?   Far. 

That is not to be stalled by my report,  
This only must be told: As I rode forth  
With some choice troops to make discovery  
Where the Enemy lay, and how entrenched; a Leader  
Of th'adverse party, but unarmed, and in  
His hand an Olive-branch, encountered me;  
He showed the great Duke's seal that gave him power  
To parley with me: his desires were, that  
Assurance for his safety might be granted  
To his royal Master, who came as a friend  
(And not as an enemy) to offer to you  
Conditions of peace. I yielded to it.  
This being returned, the Duke's Pretorum opened;  
When suddenly in a triumphant Chariot  
Drawn by such soldiers of his own as were  
For insolence after victory condemned  
Unto this slavish office, the fair Princess  
Appeared, a wreath of Laurel on her head,  
Her robes majestical, their richness far  
Above all value, as the present age  
Contended that a woman's pomp should dim  
The glittering triumphs of the Roman Caesars.  
I am cut off; no canon's throat now thunders,  
Nor Fife nor Drum beat up a charge; choice Music  
Ushers the parent of security, long absent Peace.   Manf. 

I know not what to think on't.   Uber. 

May it poise the expectation!   Enter Soldiers (unarmed, with olive-branches) Captains; Lorenzo, Galeazo, Martino, Matilda (a wreath of laurel on her head, in her chariot drawn through them.) Gonz. 

Thus to meet you  
Great Duke of Tuscany, throws amazement on me:  
But to behold my daughter, long since mourned for,  
And lost even to my hopes, thus honoured by you,  
With an excess of comfort overwhelms me:  
And yet I cannot truly call myself  
Happy in this solemnity, till your Highness  
Vouchsafe to make me understand the motives  
That in this peaceful way hath brought you to us.   Lor. 

I must crave licence first; for know, Gonzaga,  
I am subject to another's will, and can  
Nor speak nor do without permission from her:  
My curled forehead, of late terrible  
To those that did acknowledge me their Lord, While Lor. speaks, Uberti and the rest present themselves to Matilda.  
Is now as smooth as rivers when no wind stirs:  
My frowns or smiles, that killed or saved, have lost  
Their potent awe, and sweetness: I am transformed  
(But do not scorn the Metamorphosis)  
From that fierce thing men held me; I am captived,  
And by the unresistable force of beauty  
Led hither as a prisoner. Is't your pleasure that  
I shall deliver those injunctions which  
Your absolute command imposed upon me,  
Or deign yourself to speak 'em?   Mat. 

Sir, I am  
Your property, you may use me as you please;  
But what is in your power and breast to do,  
No Orator can dilate so well.   Lor. 

I obey you. That I came hither as an enemy  
With hostile arms, to the utter ruin of  
Your Country, what I have done, makes apparent:  
That fortune seconded my will, the late  
Defeature will make good: That I resolved  
To force the sceptre from your hand, and make  
Your Dukedom tributary, my surprisal  
Of Mantua your Metropolis can well witness:  
And that I cannot fear the change of fate,  
My Army fleshed in blood, spoil, glory, conquest  
Stand ready to maintain: Yet I must tell you  
By whom I am subdued, and what's the ransom  
I am commanded to lay down.   Gonz. 

My Lord, you humble yourself too much, 'tis fitter  
You should propose, and we consent.   Lor. 

Forbear,  
The articles are here subscribed and signed  
By my obedient hand: All prisoners  
Without a ransom set at liberty,  
Mantua to be delivered up; the Rampires  
Ruined in the assault, to be repaired;  
The loss the husbandman received, his crop  
Burnt up by wanton licence of the soldier  
To be made good; with whatsoever else  
You could impose on me, if you had been  
The Conqueror, I your Captive.   Gonz, 

Such a change wants an example: I must owe this favour  
To the clemency of the old Heroic valour,  
That spared when it had power to kill; a virtue  
Buried long since, but raised out of the grave  
By you to grace this latter age.   Lor. 

Mistake not  
The cause that did produce this good effect,  
If as such you receive it: 'twas her beauty  
Wrought first on my rough nature; but the virtues  
Of her fair soul, dilated in her converse,  
That did confirm it.   Mat. 

Mighty sir, no more:  
You honour her too much, that is not worthy  
To be your servant.   Lor. 

I have done, and now  
Would gladly understand that you allow of  
The art cles propounded.   Gonz. 

Do not wrong  
Your benefits with such a doubt; they are  
So great and high, and with such reverence  
To be received, that if I should profess  
I hold my Dukedom from you as your vassal,  
Or offered up my daughter as you please  
To be disposed of, in the point of honour  
And a becoming gratitude, 'twould not cancel  
The bond I stand engaged for: but accept  
Of that which I can pay, my all is yours sir,  
Nor is there any here (though I must grant  
Some have deserved much from me) for so far  
I dare presume, but will surrender up  
Their interest to that your Highness shall  
Deign to pretend a title.   Uber. 

I subscribe not to this condition   Far. 

The services  
This Prince hath done your Grace in your most danger,  
Are not to be so slighted.   Gal. 

'Tis far from me  
To urge my merits, yet I must maintain  
howe'er my power is less, my love is more;  
Nor will the gracious Princess scorn to acknowledge  
I have been her humble servant.   Lor. 

Smooth your brows,  
I'll not encroach upon your right, for that were  
Once more to force affection (a crime  
With which should I the second time be tainted,  
I did deserve no favour) neither will I  
Make use of what is offered by the Duke,  
howe'er I thank his goodness: I'll lay by  
My power; and though I should not brook a Rival,  
(What we are, well considered) I'll descend  
To be a third Competitor; he that can  
With love and service best deserve the garland,  
With your consent let him wear it; I despair not  
The trial of my fortune.   Gonz. 

Bravely offered, and like yourself, great Prince.   Uber. 

I must profess  
I am so taken with it, that I know not  
Which way to express my service.   Gal. 

Did I not build  
Upon the Princess grace, I could sit down,  
And hold it no dishonour.   Mat. 

How I feel  
My soul divided! all have deserved so well,  
I know not where to fix my choice.   Gon. 

You have  
Time to consider: will you please to take  
Possession of the Fort? than having tasted  
The fruits of peace, you may at leisure prove  
Whose plea will prosper in the Court of Love.   Exeunt.  

Act. 5. Scaen. 1.  Enter Alonzo, Octavio, Pisano, Maria (with a purse) Gothrio. Alon. 

YOu need not doubt sir, were not peace proclaimed  
And celebrated with a general joy,  
The high displeasure of the Mantuan Duke,  
Raised on just grounds, not jealous suppositions.  
The saving of our lives (which next to heaven  
To you alone is proper) would force mercy  
For an offence though capital.   Pisa. 

When the Conqueror  
Uses Entreaties, they are armed Commands  
The vanquished must not check at.   Asc. 

My piety pay the forfeit,  
If danger come but near you. I have heard  
My gracious Mistress often mention you,  
(When I served her as a Page) and feelingly  
Relate how much the Duke her sire repented  
His hasty doom of banishment, in his rage  
Pronounced against you.   Oct. 

In a private difference,  
I grant that Innocence is a wall of brass,  
And scorns the hottest battery: but when  
The cause depends between the Prince and Subject,  
'Tis an unequal competition; Justice  
Must lay her balance by, and use her sword  
For his ends that protects it. I was banished,  
And till revoked from exile, to tread on  
My sovereign's territories with forbidden feet,  
The severe letter of the Law calls death,  
Which I am subject to in coming so near  
His Court and person. But my only Child  
Being provided for, her honour salved too,  
I thank your noble change, I shall endure  
Whatever can fall with patience.   Alonz. 

You have used that medicine too long; prepare yourself  
For honour in your age, and rest secure of't.   Asc. 

Of what is your wisdom musing?   Goth. 

I am gazing on  
This gorgeous House, our Cote's a dishclout to it;  
It has no sign, what do you call't?   Asc. 

The Court; I have lived in't a Page.   Goth. 

Page! very pretty:  
May I not be a Page? I am old enough,  
Well timbered too, and I have a beard to carry it:  
Pray you let me be your Page, I can swear already  
Upon your pantable.   Asc. 

What?   Goth. 

That I'll be true unto your smock.   Asc. 

How, Rascal?   Oct. 

Hence, and pimp  
To your Rams and Ewes; such foul pollution is  
To be whipped from Court: I have now no more use of you,  
Return to your trough.   Goth. 

Must I feed on husks, before I have played the prodigal?   Oct. 

No, I'll reward  
Your service; live in your own element  
Like an honest man; all that is mine in the cottage  
I freely give you.   Goth. 

Your Bottles too, that I carry for your own tooth?   Oct. 

Full as they are.   Asc. 

And gold, that will replenish 'em.   Goth. 

I am made for ever, this was done in the nick.   Oct. 

Why in the nick?   Goth. 

O sir, 'twas well for me that you did reward my service  
Before you entered the Court; for 'tis reported  
There is a drink of Forgetfulness, which once tasted,  
Few masters think of their servants, who grown old,  
Are turned off like lame hounds and hunting-horses,  
To starve on the Commons.   Alonz. 

Bitter Knave! there's craft i'the clouted . Captain!   Enter Martino. Mart. 

I am glad to kiss  
Your valiant hand, and yours: but pray you take notice  
My title's changed, I am a Colonel.   Pisa. 

A Colonel! where's your Regiment?   Mart. 

Not raised yet;  
All the old ones are cashiered, and we are now  
To have a new Militia. All is peace here,  
Yet I hold my title still, as many do  
That never saw an Enemy.   Alonz. 

You are pleasant,  
And it becomes you. Is the Duke stirring?   Mar. 

Long since,  
Four hours at least, but yet not ready.   Pisa. 

How?   Mart. 

Even so; you make a wonder of't, but leave it:  
Alas, he is not now (sir) in the Camp,  
To be up and armed upon the least alarum;  
There's something else to be thought on.  
Here he comes, with his Officers, new rigged.   Enter Lorenzo, Doctor, Gent. Page (employed about him as from his chamber.) Alon. 

A looking-glass!  
Upon my head he saw not his own face  
These seven years past, but by reflection  
From a bright armour.   Mart. 

Be silent, and observe.   Lor. 

So, have you done yet?  
Is your building perfect?   Doct. 

If your Highness please, here is a water.   Lor. 

To what use? my Barber  
Hath washed my face already.   Doct. 

But this water  
Hath a strange virtue in't, beyond his art;  
It is a sacred Relic, part of that  
Most powerful Juice, which with Medea made  
Old AEson young.   Lor. 

A fable; but suppose  
I should give credit to it, will it work  
The same effect on me?   Doct. 

I'll undertake  
This will restore the honoured hair that grows  
Upon your highness' head and chin, a little  
Inclining unto grey.   Lor. 

Inclining! Doctor:   Doct. 

Pardon me, mighty sir, I went too far,  
Not grey at all; I dare not flatter you,  
'Tis something changed, but this applied will help it  
To the first amber-colour, every hair  
As fresh as when, your manhood in the prime,  
Your Grace arrived at thirty.   Lor. 

Very well.   Doct. 

Then here's a precious oil (to which the maker  
Hath not yet given a name) will soon fill up  
These dimples in your face and front. I grant  
They are terrible to your enemies, and set off  
Your frowns with majesty: but you may please  
To know (as sure you do) a smooth aspect,  
Softness and sweetness, in the Court of Love,  
Though dumb, are the prevailing Orators.   Lor. 

Will he new create me?   Doctor 

If you deign to taste too  
Of this Confection.   Lor. 

I am in health, and need no physic.   Doct. 

Physick sir! an Empress  
(If that an Empress lungs, sir, may be tainted  
With putrefaction) would taste of it  
That night on which she were to print a kiss  
Upon the lips of her long absent Lord,  
Returning home with conquest.   Lor. 

It is predominant  
Over a stinking breath, is it not Doctor?   Doct. 

Clothe the infirmity with sweeter language,  
'Tis a preservative that way.   Lor. 

You are then admitted to the Cabinets of great Ladies,  
And have the government of the borrowed beauties,  
Of such as write near forty?   Doct. 

True, my good Lord, and my attempts have prospered.   Lor. 

Did you never minister to the Princess?   Doct. 

Sir, not yet;  
She's in the April of her youth, and needs not  
The aids of art, my gracious Lord: but in  
The Autumn of her age I may be useful,  
And sworn her highness' Doctor, and your Grace partake  
Of the delight.   Lor. 

Slave! Witch! Impostor! [Kicks him]  
Mountebank! Cheater! Traitor to great Nature,  
In thy presumption to repair what she  
In her immutable decrees designed  
For some few years to grow up, and then wither  
Or is't not crime enough thus to betray  
The secrets of the weaker sex, thy patients,  
But thou must make the honour of this age  
And envy of the time to come, Matilda,  
(Whose sacred name I bow to) guilty of  
A future sin in thy ill-boding thoughts,  
Which for a perpetuity of youth  
And pleasure she disdains to act, such is  
Her purity and innocence?  
His foot on the doctor's breast.   Alonz. 

Long since I looked for this l'envoy.   Mart. 

Would I were well off!  
He's dangerous in these humours.   Oct. 

Stand concealed.   Doct. 

O sir, have mercy! in my thought I never  
Offended you.   Lor. 

Me? most of all, thou monster:  
What a Mock-man property in thy intent  
Wouldst thou have made me? a mere Pathic to  
Thy devilish art, had I given suffrage to it.  
Are my grey hairs, the ornament of age,  
And held a blessing by the wisest men,  
And for such warranted by holy Writ,  
To be concealed, as if they were my shame?  
Or plaster up these furrows in my face,  
As if I were a painted Bawd or Whore?  
By such base means if that I could ascend  
To the height of all my hopes, their full fruition  
Would not wipe off the scandal. No, thou wretch,  
Thy cozening Water and adulterate Oil  
I thus pour in thine eyes, and tread to dust  
Thy loathed Confection, with thy trumperies:  
Vanish for ever.   Mart. 

You have your fee, as I take it,  
Dear Domine Doctor! I'll be no sharer with you.   Exit Doctor. Lor. 

I'll court her like myself; these rich adornments  
And Jewels, worn by me an absolute Prince,  
My Order too, of which I am the Sovereign,  
Can meet no ill construction: yet 'tis far  
From my imagination to believe  
She can be taken with sublimed clay,  
The Silkworms spoils, or rich Embroideries;  
Nor must I borrow helps from power or greatness,  
But as a loyal Lover plead my cause,  
If I can feelingly express my ardour,  
And make her sensible of the much I suffer  
In hopes and fears, and she vouchsafe to take  
Compassion on me,— Ha! compassion?  
The word sticks in my throat: what's here that tells me  
I do descend too low? rebellious spirit,  
I conjure thee to leave me: there is now  
No contradiction or declining left,  
I must and will go on.   Mart. 

The tempest's laid; you may present yourselves:   Alon. 

My gracious Lord!   Pisa. 

Your humble Vassal.   Lor. 

Ha! both living?   Alon. 

Sir, we owe our lives to this good Lord, and make it  
Our humble suit—   Lor. 

Plead for yourselves: we stand  
Yet unresolved whether your knees or prayers  
Can save the forfeiture of your own heads:  
Though we have put our armour off, your pardon  
For leaving the Camp without our licence  
Is not yet signed. At some more fit time wait us.   Ex. Lor. and Attendants. Alon. 

How's this?   Mart. 

'Tis well it is no worse; I met with  
A rougher entertainment, yet I had  
Good cards to show: He's parcel mad, you'll find him  
Every hour in a several mood, this foolish Love  
Is such a shuttlecock; but all will be well  
When a better fit comes on him, never doubt it:   Exeunt. Enter Gonzaga, Uberti, Farneze, Manfroy. Gonz. 

How do you find her?   Uber. 

Thankful for my service,  
And yet she gives me little hope; my Rival  
Is too great for me.   Gonz. 

The great Duke you mean.   Uber. 

Who else? the milanese (although he be  
A complete Gentleman) I am sure despairs more than myself.   Far. 

A high estate, with women,  
Takes place of all desert.   Uber. 

I must stand my fortune.   Enter Lorenzo and Attendants. Manf. 

The Duke of Florence! sir.   Gonz. 

Your highness' presence  
Answers my wish. Your private ear:— I have used  
My best persuasion with a Father's power  
To work my daughter to your ends; yet she  
Like a small Bark on a tempestuous sea  
Tossed here and there by opposite winds, resolves not  
At which port to put in, this Prince's merits,  
Your grace and favour; nor is she unmindful  
Of the brave acts (under your pardon sir  
I needs must call them so) Hortensio  
Hath done to gain her good opinion of him:  
All these together tumbling in her fancy,  
Do much distract her; I have spies upon her,  
And am assured this instant hour she gives  
Hortensio private audience; I will bring you  
Where we will see and hear all.   Lor. 

You oblige me.   Uber. 

I do not like this whispering.   Gonz. 

Fear no foul play.   Exeunt. Enter Galeazo, and two Waiting-women. 1 Wo. 

The Princess, sir, long since expected you;  
And would I beg a thanks, I could tell you that  
I have often moved her for you.   Gal. 

I am your servant.   Enter Matilda. Beat. 

She's come; there are others I must place to hear  
The conference.   Exit. 1 Wo. 

Is't your Excellency's pleasure that we attend you?   Mat. 

No, wait me in the gallery.   1 Wo. 

Would each of us, Wench, had a Sweetheart too!  
To pass away the time:   2 Wo. 

There I join with you.   Ex. Waiting-women. Mat. 

I fear this is the last time we shall meet.   Gal. 

Heaven forbid!   Enter (above) Beatrix, Lorenzo, Gonzaga, Uberti, Farneze. Mat. 

O my Hortensio!  
In me behold the misery of Greatness,  
And that which you call Beauty: had I been  
Of a more low condition, I might  
Have called my will and faculties mine own,  
Not seeing that which was to be beloved  
With others' eyes: But now, ay me, most wretched  
And miserable Princess! in my fortune  
To be too much engaged for service done me,  
It being impossible to make satisfaction  
To my so many Creditors, (all deserving)  
I can keep touch with none.   Lor. 

A sad Exordiam.   Mat. 

You loved me long, and without hope, (alas,  
I die to think on't!) Parma's Prince invited  
With a too partial report of what  
I was, and might be to him, left his Country  
To fight in my defence. Your brave achievements  
I'the war, and what you did for me, unspoken,  
(Because I would not force the sweetness of  
Your modesty to a blush) are written here.  
And that there might be nothing wanting to  
Sum up my numerous engagements (never  
In my hopes to be canceled) the great Duke  
Our mortal enemy, when my Father's Country  
Lay open to his fury, and the spoil  
Of the victorious Army, and I brought  
Into his power, hath shown himself so  
Noble, so full of honour, temperance,  
And all virtues that can set off a Prince,  
That though I cannot render him that respect  
I would, I am bound in thankfulness to admire him.   Gal. 

'Tis acknowledged, and on your part to be returned.   Mat. 

How can I,  
Without the brand of foul ingratitude  
To you, and Prince Uberti?   Gal. 

Hear me, Madam,  
And what your servant shall with zeal deliver,  
As a Dedalean clew may guide you out of  
This labyrinth of distraction. He that loves  
His Mistress truly, should prefer her honour  
And peace of mind, above the glutting of  
His ravenous appetite: He should affect from her,  
But with a fit restraint, and not take her  
To give himself: He should make it the height  
Of his ambition, if it lie in  
His stretched out nerves to effect it, though she fly in  
An eminent place, to add strength to her wings,  
And mount her higher, though he fall himself  
Into the bottomless Abyss; or else  
The services he offers are not real,  
But counterfeit.   Mat. 

What can Hortensio infer from this?   Gal. 

That I stand bound in duty  
(Though in the act I take my last farewell  
Of comfort in this life) to sit down willingly,  
And move my suit no further. I confess,  
While you were in danger, and heaven's mercy made me  
Its instrument to preserve you, (which your goodness  
prized far above the merit) I was bold  
To feed my starved affection with false hopes  
I might be worthy of you: For know, Madam,  
How mean soever I appeared in Mantua,  
I had in expectation a fortune,  
Though not possessed of't, that encouraged me  
With confidence to prefer my suit, and not  
To fear the Prince Uberti as my Rival.   Gonz: 

I ever thought him more than what he seemed.   Lor. 

Pray you forbear.   Gal. 

But when the Duke of Florence  
Put in his plea, in my consideration  
Weighing well what he is, as you must grant him,  
'a Mars of men in Arms; and those put off,  
The great example for a Kingly Courtier  
To imitate: Annex to these his wealth,  
Of such a large extent, as other Monarchs  
Call him the King of Coin; and what's above all.  
His lawful love, with all the happiness  
This life can fancy, from him flowing to you;  
The true affection which I have ever borne you,  
Does not alone command me to desist,  
But as a faithful Councillor to advise you  
To meet and welcome that felicity  
Which hastes to crown your virtues.   Mat. 

We must break off this parley.  
Something I have to say.   [Exe: above] Mat. 

In tears I thank  
Your care of my advancement; but I dare not  
Follow your council: Shall such piety  
Pass unrewarded? such a pure affection,  
For any ends of mine, be undervalued?  
Avert it Heaven! I will be thy Matilda,  
Or cease to be; No other heat but what  
Glows from thy purest flames, shall warm this bosom;  
Nor Florence, nor all Monarchs of the earth  
Shall keep thee from me.   Enter Lorenzo, Gonzaga, Uberti, Farneze, Manfroy, two Waiting-women. Gal. 

I fear, gracious Lady,  
Our conference hath been o'erheard.   Mat. 

The better:  
Your part is acted; give me leave at distance  
To zany it, sir, on my knees thus prostrate  
Before your feet.   Lor. 

This must not be, I shall  
Both wrong myself and you in suffering it.   Mat. 

I will grow here, and weeping thus turn marble,  
Unless you hear and grant the first petition  
A virgin, and a Princess ever tendered:  
Nor doth the suit concern poor me alone,  
It hath a strong reference to you  
And to your honour; and if you deny it,  
Both ways you suffer. Remember, sir, you were not  
Born only for yourself; heaven's liberal hand  
Designed you to command a potent Nation,  
Gave you heroic valour, which you have  
Abused in making unjust war upon  
A neighbour Prince, a Christian; while the Turk,  
Whose scourge and terror you should be, securely  
Wastes the Italian Confines: 'tis in you  
To force him to pull in his horned Crescents,  
And 'tis expected from you.   Lor. 

I have been in a dream, and now begin to wake.   Mat. 

And will you forbear to reap the harvest of such glories,  
Now ripe and at full growth, for the embraces  
Of a flight woman? or exchange your triumphs  
For chamber-pleasures? melt your able nerves  
(That should with your victorious sword make way  
Through the Armies of your Enemies) in loose  
And wanton dalliance? Be yourself, great sir,  
The thunderbolt of war, and scorn to sever  
Two hearts long since united: your example  
May teach the Prince Uberti to subscribe  
To that which you allow of.   Lor. 

The same tongue  
That charmed my sword out of my hand, and threw  
A frozen numbness on my active spirit,  
Hath disenchanted me. Rise, fairest Princess!  
And that it may appear I do receive  
Your council as inspired from heaven, I will  
Obey and follow it: I am your debtor,  
And must confess you have lent my weakened reason  
New strengths once more to hold a full command  
Over my passions. Here to the world  
I freely do profess that I disclaim  
All interest in you, and give up my title  
Such as it is, to you sir: and as far  
As I have power, thus join your hands.   Gonz. 

To yours I add my full consent.   Uber. 

I am lost, Farneze.   Far: 

nearer to the port than you suppose:  
In me our laws speak, and forbid this contract.   Mat. 

Ay me! new stops!   Gal. 

Shall we be ever crossed thus?   Far. 

There is an Act upon record, confirmed  
By your wise predecessors, that no Heir  
Of Mantua (as questionless the Princess  
Is the undoubted one) must be joined in marriage,  
But where the match may strengthen the estate  
And safety of the Dukedom. Now this Gentleman,  
However I must style him honourable,  
And of a high desert, having no power  
To make this good in his alliance, stands  
Excluded by our laws: whereas this Prince  
Of equal merit, brings to Mantua  
The power and Principality of Parma:  
And therefore since the great Duke hath let fall  
His plea, there lives no Prince that justlier can  
Challenge the Princess favour.   Lor. 

Is this true, sir?   Gonz. 

I cannot contradict it.   Enter Manfroy. Manf. 

There's an Ambassador  
From Milan, that desires a present audience;  
His business is of highest consequence,  
As he affirms: I know him for a man  
Of the best rank and quality.   Gal. 

From Milan?   Gonz. 

Admit him.— How? so low!   Enter Ambassador, and Julio with a Letter, which he presents on his knee to Galeazo. Amb. 

I am sorry, sir, to be the bringer of this heavy news:  
But since it must be known—   Gal. 

Peace rest with him,  
I shall find fitter time to mourn his loss.  
My faithful servant too, Julio!   Jul. 

I am o'erjoyed to see your Highness safe.   Gal. 

Pray you peruse this,  
And there you'll find that the objection  
The Lord Farneze made, is fully answered.   Gonz. 

The great John Galeas dead?   Lor. 

And this his brother, the absolute Lord of Milan.   Mat. 

I am revived.   Uber. 

There's no contending against destiny,  
I wish both happiness.   Enter Alonzo, Maria, Octavio, Pisano, Martino. Lor: 

Married, Alonzo? I will salute your Lady, she's a fair one,  
And seal your pardon on her lips.   Gonz. 

Octavio, welcome even to my heart! Rise, I should kneel  
To thee for mercy.   Oct: 

The poor remainder of  
My age shall truly serve you.   Mat. 

You resemble a Page I had, Ascanio.   Asc. 

I am your highness' servant still.   Lor. 

All stand amazed  
At this unlooked for meeting: But defer  
Your several stories. Fortune here hath shown  
Her various power; but Virtue in the end  
Is crowned with laurel: Love hath done his parts too;  
And mutual friendship after bloody jars,  
Will cure the wounds received in our wars.   Exeunt omnes.  
FINIS.   

EPILOGUE.  

PRay you Gentlemen keep your seats; something I would  
Deliver to gain favour, if I could,  
To us, and the still doubtful Author. He,  
When I desired an Epilogue, answered me,  
'Twas to no purpose: He must stand his fate,  
Since all entreaties now would come too late;  
You being long since resolved what you would say  
Of him, or us, as ye rise, or of the Play.  
A strange old Fellow! yet this sullen mood  
Would quickly leave him, might it be understood  
You part not hence displeased. I am designed  
To give him certain notice: If you find  
Things worth your liking, show it. Hope and Fear,  
Though different passions, have the selfsame ear.