THE JUST GENERAL A Traguses: Comedy, Written by Major COSMO MANUCHE  
LONDON, Printed for M. M. T. C. and G. Bedell, and are to be sold at their Shop at the Middle Temple gate in Fleetstreet, 1652.   

TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE JAMES Earl of Northampton, and ISABELLA. his Most virtuous Lady, all increase of health and Prosperity.  
Right Honourable,  
THis Critical Age, visibly discovers, to what disadvantage I must thrust this poor Play into the world; so that I am forced to lay hold on discetion (the greatest part of valour) for my defence. For although I well know they may find fault with my wit, I am sure they can not condemn my judgement in (humbly) choosing your Honour's Patrons to these poor (friendless) Sicilians, which when sheltered under your wings, will (though not from malice) yet be free (in mercy to themselves) from their venting it. Right Honourable, it is only your pardons I beg, which (out of that propensity to goodness, which is natural in you) I doubt not of; as of your encouragement to enable me more serviceable in a larger manner, to confirm, that I must live, and die your honours most humble and most faithful servant.  
COS. MANUCHE.   

The Prologue intended for the Stage.  Enter Prologue and Critic severally. Prolo. 
Critic forbear the Stage, what do you here?  Crit. 
I come to judge your Play, not for to jeer.  Prolo. 
Although you know to judge, yet fancy rules  
Which makes the best of Critics knowing fools.  Crit. 
Prologue you censure boldly, and condemn  
The able Critic 'mongst the Wou'dbe men.  
Who to describe from us, asks no more skill  
Then to observe, how 'twixt each Act they will  
Twirl on the toe, picking their teeth, and dance  
Then, sometimes whistle Ala mode de France.  
The Play being done, they on each other look  
To read in one another's faces how it took.  
None daring (though supposed valiant) for to say  
It was well Acted, or 'tis a good Play.  
When one non Guilty of ability  
To judge, a●k●th his Friends advise, when he  
anticly answers (faith) with little pains  
He could write better, yet ne'er break his brains▪  
To which, his Lady with an easy Faith  
And little judgement, answereth, and saith,  
Such foolish fellows as have writ before  
Should you but write (dear friend) would ne'er write more▪  
At which he smiles, and cries fie, fie, there be  
No question some can write as well as he.  
Which she must doubt, whilst he denies it so  
As if he knew 'twere truth, but would not know  
These art your Critic Wou'dbes rail at the Poet  
For writing sense (poor souls) and they not know it.  
When we, where there's a fault proclaim't 'tis true,  
But never do't till judgement finds it due.  
Distinguish then 'twixt Wo'udbe wits, and us  
That dare do Justice, though miraculous.  
Prologue farewel, if you deserve applause,  
The knowing Critic shall maintain your cause.  Exit Crit. Prolo. To the audience. 
Now unto you that dare be just, and judge  
Without partiality, we shall not grudge  
To be chid gently, and shall study mend  
Such faults as you shall say our Author penned.  
If ' has writ nonsense, thus he bid me say,  
He writ by'ch spirit, just as the (Brethren pray   

Prologue. To the READER.  
REader, lest you mistake, and like my play,  
Know 'tis the first I wrote, and how that may  
Your wits disparage (faith) I'll leave to you  
That best know (in such cases) what to do.  
In spite of Malice venture I dare thus far,  
Pack not a Jury, and I'll stand the Barr.   

The Names of the Persons presented.  

Amasius— A young King in love with Aurelia.  
Bellicosus— General of his Army.  
Delirus— Son to the General, in love with Artesia.  
Sebastian— An old decayed Lord, father to Aurelia  
Antonio. Noble Persons attending the King.  
Cornelius. Noble Persons attending the King.  
Eugenio. Noble Persons attending the King.  
Fabius— Servant to the General.  
Ferdinando— Servant to Sebastian.  
Dul. Goldcalf— Heir to a rich Usurer.  
Snap. all. Sunkloe— A decayed Gentleman, servant to Goldcalfe.  
Captain Thunder. Pretenders to be cashiered Officers.  
Lieut. Cannon. Pretenders to be cashiered Officers.  
Ensign Drake. Pretenders to be cashiered Officers.  
Strephon— An inconstant Shepherd.  
Amintor— A constant Shepherd.  
Aurelia— The King's Mistress, Daughter to Sebastian.  
Artesia— A proud rich Lady, daughter to a deceased Lord called Endymion  
Bellira— Woman to Aurelia, and Sister to Snap.  
Dorothy Dreswel. Woman to Artesia.  
Executioner.   
The SCENE Sicily.   

THE JUST GENERAL.  

ACT. I.  

SCENE I.  Enter Antonio, Cornelius, Eugenio. Antonio. 
ti's certain truth, the Letters, this day, from our  
Valiant General (to our young King) affirm  
A Cessation Of Arms, on both fides,  
For these three months.  Cornel. 
Can you guests the reason,  
Our General having (as is supposed) much the  
Advantage, should he give them battle.  Eugen. 
Believe it, our General  
Hath to much honesty, mixed with knowledge, to  
Condescend, to any thing can prejudice  
Our King and Country.  Anton. 
He's a man, no one loves virtue can suspect,  
I hear his Letter hath struck a drooping melancholy  
In the King.  Cornel. 
ti's truth, but the cause was not our General's actions  
But his Council, who (as ti's talked) dissuades him from  
Loving the fair Aurelia: as a match too far beneath him.  Eugen. 
ti's probable, for questionless he loves her much,  
And pity ti's the virtuous fair one hath not dowry  
Equal her birth, and merit.  Anton. 
Which if she had, I know no reason, but she might  
Make a wife, for any he that's mortal—  The King Flourish: Enter King, Sebastian Ferdinando; and guard King. Sebastin: 
me thinks, thou droop'st as if thy spirits  
Were with thy fortunes lost: both might be raised  
Again, would but the subject please to let  
His King command.  Sebast. 
He ill deserves the name of subject that should  
Refuse to obey your just commands.  King. 
O Sebastian, What appears just to us, not seasoned  
To the  of the giddy headed multitude,  
To 's unjust.  
'Tis not what we, but what they will that must.  
where's Aurelia thy fair daughter?  Ferdinand. 
So please your Majesty, the Lady Artesia and she,  
Wait in the presence.  King. 
Go call them in: Gallants, you hear our Army is—  Exit Ferd. 
Like to have a ●●ea●●ing ●●me, the General hath my  
Consent, for a three month's Cessation.  Anton. 
Sir. the General (we know)  
Can nothing act but what must visibly appear  
(To men of reason) much advantageous, to your  
Self, and Country.  Enter Aurelia, Artesia, Ferdinando. King. 
We doubt it not. How doth the fair Artesia—  Kisses her 
What not yet in love? me thinks our Courtiers  
Are grown dull, but 'tis Delirus (son to our  
Noble General) is the man: Have I  
Not gue'st unhappily?  Artesi. 
That's as it proves Sir.  King. 
May it prove well as I wish it.  Artesi. 
And may your Majesty in your love prove happy.  King. 
So wishes my Aurelia: if I mistake not—  Kissesher Artesi. 
My Aurelia: See, see, he kisses too close, as  
Contracted lovers, when forced to part.—  aside King. 
Aurelia: harbour not within thy Ivory breast, that  
Traitor to thy beauty, Melancholy; he's an ill guest,  
Not to be rooted out (if settled) but with a certain  
Ruin of that fair fabriek. there's not (within  
The compass of my power) that thing, thy virtue  
Can command, I will not carefully see performed,  
By my chaste love I will.  Aurel. 
Royal Sir, low as the earth, I thank you, you,—  She Knelt 
That can pity in distress, a thing not worth  
Your noble thoughts.  King. 
Arise, Aurelia: Reach me a chair there—  Takes Aurelia by the hand. Aurel. 
Artesia, stay.  Artesi. 
When you are Queen perhaps I may obey—  Artesia offers to be gone. King. 
Call back Artesia. Artesia, what desert  
Your friends? come we must have your opinion too,—  Ferdinando goes off Artesia returns. 
Reach another chair here.  Aurelia, sit. Aurel. 
Pardon great Sir, the humblest of your handmaids.  King. 
Come sit I say, when you are Queen; Artesia  
Will obey, and as I am your King I do expect  
No less from you.  Aurel. 
Great Sir, the practice of my obedience,  
Shall be my joyful study.  King. 
Show it in this, sit down.  Aurel. 
Your will, shall be my law.  King. 
Gentlemen, pray tell me (you that are Landlords  
To the Commonwealth) what creature living  
(Dares own me for his King) can justly envy  
At the favours, I bestow on this fair Virgin—  
What all silent? Antonio,  
What say you?  Anton. 
Sir, I should be loath to stand engaged, for that many  
Headed beast (the commonwealth) yet confidently  
Dare say, there's not, a Noble breast, would not  
(With me) rejoice to see, such virtue matched.  Artesi. 
This is gross flattery—  aside King. 
Artesia, what say you?  Artesi. 
Sir, I am so far from diveing into the thoughts of  
Others, I hardly know my own.  King. 
But I can shrewdly guests them, and ne'er cast a figure.—  Exit all but King. 
All leave us, but wait in the next room.  
What are we Princes, 'bove other men, more than in,  
Our care? I do remember (blessed be his memory)  
My Royal Father, would lay his hand upon my head  
And say, boy, wed not thyself to pleasure, 'tis  
An insinuating evil; which once embraced, and of  
Thy heart possession got will ulcerate the body,  
And if not timely cured, may infect the soul.  
'Tis care, not pleasure, must preserve thy crown  
Which if thou'dst have, upon thy head, sit fast  
Study to know thy subjects, and so rule  
Not to be thought too wise, not yet their fool.  
It was good council, which to my best of power, I'll labour  
To find out, and follow; here Bellicosus (our General)  
Writes, my love to fair Aurelia is generally known  
What if it be? and that considering her birth, and  
Beauty, she may deserve my pity not my bed,  
And that the event may prove dangerous to act,  
What the subject may make his pretence of quarrel:  
(I had best have the banes of matrimony, ask in  
Every Parish Church in my dominion, with the hands  
Of the Parson, and Churchwardens, for the approbation,  
Of the lawfulness of my choice) but Bellicosus,  
Is honest, and carefully instructs us for the best, as  
One whose grey hairs, pleads an insight, in those  
State affairs, my unexperiened youth, ne'er understood.  
Besides, it was my Father's charge, on his sick  
Bed, I should 'bove all, take his advice,  
As one, near us in blood  
Whom he hath found, entirely faithful to his Crown.  
'Tis ill to lose a subject, hardly to be found.  
You ' pours above instruct my tender youth  
Love her (by all the Gods above) I do more than  
My life; Nor can I find a posibility, to spend  
The remnant of my days, on this frail earth,  
In peace, without I do enjoy the fair  
Aurelia for my wife, what though she be poor  
In what our earthly fools adore, more than  
There Gods, she hath, in her  breast  
Virtue enough, for to redeem, forth from  
Captivity, 'bove half the world.  
Court dross, that love it Aurelia I am thine  
As much from thee, entales thy virtue mine.—  Exit. Enter Mr. Dull Goldcalfe in an Antique dress. and Snap his man. Gold. 
But Snap dost thou still continue thy dissolution  
That there is, things mortal, and in Coats, like  
Women, that can deserve my embraces.  Snap. 
Pardon me, Sir, I spoke not in the plural number.  Gold. 
Plural, Snap; what's that  Snap. 
Why plural signifies; more than one,  
Plural, may be many  Gold. 
Plural, many, I shall remember plural, an excellent  
Word, what is that one, thou wouldst make happy  
In my acquaintance.  Snap. 
She is a Lady, Nobly born; of a high Spirit,  
And heir to great Estate  Gold. 
Let her be as Nobly born as she will, I care not a pin  
And for her high spirit, her's that shall take it down—  Points to his sword. 
What may her state be, say you.  Snap. 
Some five thousand pounds, per annum.  Gold. 
Snap, I understand you well, per annum  
Is by some kinswoman of hers, is't not so  Snap. 
Sir, you mistake per annum is meant  
Five thousand pound a year  Gold. 
A very trifle Snap, but because she is thy friend  
And I fear thou hast acquainted her with my good  
Parts, I may be merciful, and pity her.  Snap. 
I thank you Sir, I hope, she will deserve it  Gold. 
It may be so Snap; what may her name be  Snap. 
The Lady's name is Artesia Daughter, and heir to the  
Late deceased Lord Endymion  Gold. 
Heir me no heirs, when will her father die  Snap. 
He hath been Coffined under ground this twelvemonth  Gold. 
Nay then he may be dead, but Snap, you might have  
Told me so.  
You know her lodging.  Snap. 
I do Sir,  Gold. 
Some time to day Il'try her wit.  Snap. 
You will find her, well worded, and discreet.  Gold. 
For that Snap; I shall word with her, I believe, and  
For discretion, those that know me, know I have  
My share, Snap; hath not my Tailor done his part  
How do I look.  Snap. 
Singular well Sir, for ill' be sworn their's none looks  
Like you.  Gold. 
Snap; I do believe thee hark in thine ear—  They whisper. Enter Antonio, Cornelius, Eugenio. Corneli. 
'Tis without question, he intends to make the fair  Aurelica, 
his Queen.  Anto. 
'Tis doubtless so, And though the General's letter  
Some what displeased him, I find his resolution fixed  
Which hath strangely wrought, an unaccustomed  
Mirth in him.  Euge. 
By all the Gods, I joy in it  Corneli. 
He loves not virtue, doth not. In the name of—  Spies Goldcalfe. 
Jupiter, what may yon monster be  
If a Baboon, he's of the largest size I ever saw  Eugenio. 
We know the beast, his name is Dul. Goldcalfe—  Goldcalfe struts by 
One (however ill bestowed) The fates have pleased  
To shower down wealth in abundance, I wonder much  
Sebastian's fortunes, being sunk, he begs not  
This same fool o'th' King, He hath an Estate  
Few Noble men in our Land, can purchase  
With their own  Anto. 
Now by the gods, it were but Justice, let's move it to  
The King, Sebastian's Noble mind will never  
Condescend to do it  Corneli. 
By Jupiter, I'll ' join it'h motion, Engenio, thou  
Knowest the Guilded calf  
Prithee accost him, I long to see  
How his inside doth, with his out agree  Gold. 
Snap; They have spied me,  
And come to do me reverence.  Eugenio. 
Mr. Dull Goldcalfe; your most undoubted friend  
I shall desire you take acquaintance, of this my  
Noble friend, I am confident he will deserve  
Your love.  Gold. 
It may be so  Corneli. 
Noble Sir, Although a stranger to your worth,  
Yet the Noble Character fame gives of you, hath  
Encouraged me, to become, an humble suitor, you  
Would vouchsafe, to list me amongst, those hap  
Mortals, you deign to style your servants.  Gold. 
Snap; This is a large Compliment,  
Not suddenly to be answered  Snap. 
'Tis stolen and out of fashion.  Gold. 
Say you so? Sir though I understand by my man  
Snap; your compliment be stolen and out of  
Fashion, yet for this Gentleman's sake (I honour  
With the name of friend) your suit is granted  Corneli. 
Right Noble Sir, I thank you  Eugenio. 
And I in his behalf.  Anto. 
Mr. Dull Goldcaulse, the confirmation of your  
Health, is joy to me.  Gold. 
Noble Antonio, I give you plural thanks,  
And gentlemen, I am glad I met you, I must  
Trouble you on friday next to my wedding,  
Snap; where shall it be?  Snap. 
For that we shall contrive  Eugenio. 
Please you to make us happy, in your brids name  
And place of being, we shall be proud to wait on you.  Gold. 
Tell my friends her name, I have forgot it, I never  
Saw her yet gentleman  Anto. 
How never saw your bride, and yet your match so near  Gold. 
No faith not I, but Snap; will show me where  
She is, anon.  Eugenio. 
Snap; pray what may this creature be, that can  
Deserve so high, and rich a match, as this my  
Nob'e friend.  Snap 
It is the Lady Artesia, daughter, and heir to the  
Late deceased Lord Endymion.  Gold 
And yet Snap; you told me he was dead  Eugenio. 
Noble friend he is  Gold. 
Say you so, 'twas more than I understood  Eugenio. 
And Snap; hath done you justice, she is the only  
Match, for wealth, and beauty, our country doth afford  Gold. 
You will not fail to come then  Anto. 
Name but the place, and we'll attend you  Gold. 
Snap; we'll have it at the Cake-house  
Behind the Hospital  Snap. 
Not for the world Sir, a Lady of her birth and breeding  
Keep her weedding at a Cake house, 'twould be avile  
Disparagement to you both  Gold. 
Why Snap; my father (I have heard him say)  
Kept his wedding there, and he thought himself  
As good a man, as she.  Snap, 
'tis true Sir, but now the fashions altered  Gold. 
Where lies the fashion now  Snap. 
Her house will be the only place  Gold. 
Gentlemen, at her house a friday. I will about  
It strait, Snap show me the way—  Exit Gould, and Snap. Snap. 
I wait your worship.  Anto. 
He escapes well, with tossing in a blanket, if he  
Dare attempt this, her high spirit, will have no mercy on him.  Eugenio. 
'Tis but the prologue to the misery, he is like to endure  
His ignorance will be his daily punishment.  Corneli. 
By Jupiter, I neither hear, nor in my travels  
Ever saw his fellow, in other shape then in  
Long coats, and bells, what is his man, he seems  
To be a cunning knave.  Eugen. 
The man hath better blood runs in his veins, than  
His ridiculous master, and questionless, aims at his  
Private ends, in this same borrowed shape  
Of servingman.  Cornel. 
May he prosper in it, more than a bare subsistence,  
For the fool's to much, come Gentlemen 'tis time  
We did attend the King.  Anton. 
Then lead the way.—  Ex. Antonio, Cornelius, Eugenius. Enter Artesia, sol. looking in her glass. Artesi. 
This is no flattering glass: if true, my judgement  
Cannot find, Aurelia's face, five thousand pounds  
A year, more beautiful than mine. I have been  
Much flattered, if this face speak, not itself the  
Best it'h Court; And at that rate, I have sufficently  
Tyraniz'd over my poor Idolaters, 'mongst whom  
I must find out one, that must gladly act, what  
Ever I prescribe,  
Artesia must not, cannot see  
Aurelia in the Throne of Majesty  
And I a poor neglected looker on,  
My fortune, and my beauty  
Speak me (aloud) I do deserve the best.  
And shall a beggar's brat, skip o'er my head, and  
I, when 'tis to late, whine out my griefs, and  
Say I might have done. Aurelia, you may be  
Queen of Faries, or of some petty Island in the  
Other world,  
This is to hot for thee, thy eyes strike fire  
When throughly quenched, mine then, will blaze the higher.  
What monster have we here—  Enter Gould, and Snap. Gold. Snap. 
I perceive the Lady is at leasute, by being alone  
Prithee remember my service to her, and tell her I  
Will find some other time to wait on her.  Snap. 
By no means Sir, you shame yourself for ever if  
You speak not to her; could you have found a  
Better time than when she is at leisure.  Gold. 
Sa●st thou me so Snap; Him, him, Lady:  
Would it were out.  Artesi. 
Would what were out?  Gold. 
Nay there's it; I cannot tell that;  
Snap; tell her my name, and riches and that  
I love her, for my good parts they'll speak for themselves.  Snap. 
This you must do yourself;  
Or be for ever shamed.  Artesi. 
Sir, have you any thing to say to me?  Snap. 
Now, now, now.—  to Gold. Gold. 
Lady my name is Mr. Dull Goldcalfe, of an  
Ancient family; my father, was above fourscore  
When he died; his arms is a sleeping calf,  
You may see them Lady in every Tavern window,  
I have heard my father say they cost him  
Forty shillings, my Estate is infinite; for my parts  
Judge you, if you have any wit.  Artesi. 
So much, I have, I think I know your business,  
You come to proffer yourself to be my jester.  Snap. 
She pays him home—  Aside Gold. 
No i'll be sworn Lady, Snap; can tell  
I am in earnest,  Artesi. 
Sirrah I am indisposed, to entertain a fool,  
But if you dare be troublesome, i'll have you  
cudgeled out of doors.  Gold. 
Why Lady, take you me for a fool  
And a coward.  Snap. 
Else she mistakes abominably—  aside Gold. 
If you do Lady, I can dispense wirh my conscience  
Choose my side, and with my money buy a Colonel's  
Place, entertain half a score cashiered,  
Officers that shall be at my command,  
Can I not Snap,  Snap. 
But when their monies done, (you feed  
Them with) they will command you.  Gold. 
To give them more money, is't not so snap?  Snap. 
Very right.  Gould. 
But Snap, because they shall command but seldom  
I'll give them swinging sums at a time, there's divers  
Of my kinsmen have done't before me  
Lady, how do you like my way?  Artesi. 
So well, that if you do not find it out quickly  
I'll make my foot man show it you by the head  
And shoulders.  Gold, 
Thanks Noble Lady, Snap and I know  
The way very well, no ceremony Lady to your servant;  
But you mistake me Lady, I mean the  
Way of being (for your preferment) a Colonel,  
For no disparagement to you Lady, I have  
Herd that Colonels are no Cobblers, nor  
Tinkers, but companions for Princes,  
Be they not Snap?  Artesi. 
This Ass is troublesome. Well Sir  
I have considered of it, and when  
You are a Cobbler or a Tinker, (I mean a  
Colonel) you shall expect a  
Further answer from me—  Exit Artesia. Gold. 
Hay Snap, was it not well done to make  
Myself a Colonel? I had ne'er carried  
The peevish ape else.  Snap. 
Most excellent well contrived. Now  
Sir, that she may understand that you are a  
Very Colonel, for so you suddenly must be;  
I speedily will endeavour to find out some of  
These Officers you speak of, on whom  
I must spend freely, and after you have  
Furnished them well with money (which you  
Must do) there's not a vintner, nor Alehouse keeper  
In the City, but within three days  
After receipt, will with cap in hand salute  
Your Officers, as thus. Save you Noble Captain;  
Save you Noble Lieutenant, how fares it with  
Your Noble and truly valiant Colonel  
Goldcalfe. Ten days will ripen your  
Fame to that perfection, that not a  
Parrot, nor starling in the City, but will prattle  
Colonel Goldcalf. This to your Lady known,  
(As soon 'twill be) you need not  
Doubt her favour.  Gold. 
O rare Snap; about it strait,  
Thou shalt have money store. And Snap;  
Because she shall not understand I am a  
Usurer, as was my scraping father,  
I'll summon in all my principal money,  
Hang use, we'll find use for't  
Shall we not Snap?  Snap. 
Admirable use (Noble Colonel.)  Gold. 
Sa'st thou me so boy? her's half a piece  
For that, how rarely it sounds, (Noble Colonel)  
Come away Snap; I long to be confirmed a Colonel  Exit Goldcalf and Snap. Enter Aurelia sol. Aurel. 
The king, is sure, too full of Noble thoughts, to  
Play upon my present misery, and to believe those  
Favours he bestowed (so publicly) on me, as real, as  
Spoken they appeared; would amaze one that deserves  
No better than myself. You gods give me, a worthy  
Patience to undergo, what ere ' you lay  
Upon me. Noble Antonio,—  Enter Antonio 
Welcome, what news from Court?  Anton. 
Most Excellent Lady, by (me unworthy)  
The King commends his best of love to your fair self,  
Who sadly knowing, fortune hath blindly dealt  
With you, and doubting your present supplies,  
Hath sent you a thousand pounds, which he  
Commands you to dispose of, as what he hath  
Pronounced, your own.  Aureli. 
I humbly thank his Majesty. Ferdinando—  Enter Ferdinand. Ferdinand. 
Madam.  Aureli. 
Lay by that bag.  Ferdinan. 
Madam I shall—  Exit. Ferdina. Aureli. 
Your burden (Antonio) hath heat you,  
I hope it is not in respect of me,  
You use this Ceremony.—  Meaning, being uncovered. Antoni. 
Madam, it is a reverence, my loyalty commands,  
To her, my King, intends his Queen.  Aureli. 
Fie Antonio, This speaks you aright Courtier  
But to me, the poorest of your friends,  
It was too much.  Anto. 
Madam, I ever shall acknowledge the Court  
The place hath brought me up,  
Yet never looked on flattery with other eyes,  
Then those that saw it monstrous,  
It is my judgement, not my will that ers, if I mistake  
The King.  Aureli. 
Which sure you do Antonio, and easy may  
Confess it, as what's your Prince's daily exercise,  
(His charity) your judgements known too sound,  
To entertain a thought,  
The King whose state and virtue, can  
Command the worthiest she,  
His own and neighbouring Princes Country  
Doth afford: can cast his eyes upon a  
Wretched thing fortune is pleased to frown on,  
My poor deserts, examnined by myself;  
And known, can swell my humble thoughts,  
Up to no higher pitch then to be known his  
Grateful creature, and when my prayers, for  
Him and duty to his Majesty I neglect,  
May I be blasted, as one not worthy day light.  Anton. 
And may his envy burst him, that looks with  
Grudging eyes, on your preferred deserts.  Aurel. 
Thanks good  Antonio. 
And to the King,  
My duty; and my thanks▪ as hearty as I pay  
The gods in my devotion.  Anton. 
And may you be,  
No more nor less than what I wish to see;  
So blessings attend your goodness.—  Exit. Aurel. 
How rare doth honesty at Court appear,  
Yet is not strange, when virtuous Princes stee'r.—  Exit. Enter Sunklow, alias Snap, and Bellira his sister. Sunk. 
Come, you are too fond peevish, and  
Must be ruled, you know our fortune's sunk  
Beyond recovery, (but by this means)  
Have I with early care and pains,  
Made it my study to contrive (most for your good) in  
This neglected shape of slavery, a way to raise  
Our low sunk house, And must you out of a  
Self wiled nicety, refuse that which your betters  
Gladly would embrace (and joy to compass)  
What freely I have offered, to throw into your arms.  
Consider, and be wise, for rather than I'll act the fool,  
To my own ruin, and others mirth,  
I'll leave my Country, never to return, where  
You may live to say, you had a friend—  Offers to go, 
And brother.  Belli. 
O Gentle Brother; stay, hear me but speak,  
You would not tie me to a thing, I shall be shamed  
To own, a gilded monster, one that the people never call  
A man, but when he buys the title. Come, you do  
But this to try me. I know you are too full of Nobleness  
To engage me to a misery, I cannot hope for end of,  
But with the loss of life; be merciful in your  
Commands, and i'll obey.  Sunk: 
How have you spent your time, hath not your  
Court experience, nor education in the Common wealth,  
Taught you to understand, he wants for no good parts,  
That hath enough to purchase tongues at his command?  
Besides, when valour (although not in himself)  
But once is known, to curb the daring Talker,  
He may as freely pass the muster-role of Gentry  
As he, that yesterday Commenced at Paris.  
Come, you must and shall be ruled, or lose a friend,  
More precious, than most Brothers  
You know Goldcalf young, and easy wrought upon,  
Apt (yet enough) to take any impression your more solid  
Judgement shall find fit to mould him in. No whining,  
But consent, the rest shall be my care to see performed.  
Come, come, your speedy answer; 'Tis the last I'll urge.  Belli. 
Things of this high concernment, require some time  
Of study, which I shall urge you grant.  Sunk. 
Be speedy, as what much concerns our business  
And think, what women would refuse so rich a fool;  
The world goes well with woman, when they rule.—  Exit. Belli. 
To such as do desire it. All I can think, or say,  
Study, or not, I find I must obey.—  Exit.   

ACT. II.  

SCENE I.  Enter Dorothy Dreswel solemnising. as from sleep. Dorothy, 
hay, ho, I have had the most sweetest, pleasantest  
Comfortabl'st dream, That ever woman waked from.  
Beshrew their noise, that put me out on't,  
Me thought I could have spent— all this morning in't;  
Venus assist us we may dream,  
For we have but little comfort waking;  
Waiting call you it? yes we are waiting women,  
We may wait long enough, ere these  
Courtiers will do a poor soul a good turn.  
Yet, Why do I rail at them?  
They are but men, flesh and blood,  
And can do no more than they can do.  
It is our unmerciful Ladies, that give the poor souls  
No breath, nor time to recrute.  
What hopes can we have then?  
Yes, Ferdinando, the Lord Sebastian's man,  
Gins to promise something;  
Yet he comes on too, just like a posse Captain  
With his forlone,  
Upon a breach he hath been beaten from;  
But time and experience may increase his valour.  
And see to my wish, he is here.—  Enter Ferdinando. Ferdin. 
Fair Mistress Dorothy, I kiss your hand.  Dorot. 
You may make more bold, and be more welcome  
Sweet Ferdinando.  Ferdin. 
Fair one, you have invited me to a bliss,  
Exceeds what men call joys on earth.  Dorot. 
'Tis all you Courtiers can do, to dissemble  
With our sex.  Ferdin. 
Number not me, amongst the prophaners  
Of such beauty, I must for mercy sue to: if I may  
Hope to enjoy, what you fair self, hath only to dispose of.  Dorot. 
You will not find me proudly Coy,  
'Tis love in love (they say) makes all the joy.  Ferdin. 
This kiss,  
The happy prologue to our ensuing bliss.  
The business (I gladly snatched to wait on your  
Fair self) was to commend my Lady's service  
To the fair Artesia: please you to let her  
Understand so much.  Dorot. 
Sweet Ferdinando, I shall, as one your  
Employment hath made proud.—  Exit. Dorot. Ferdin. 
If you be proud, the devil shall  
Lime you for me; was there ever such a piece of  
(Second-hand formality) wrapped up in silk?  
The Goat, and sparrow's chaste to her,  
I'll ' have her married to a Regiment of Swiss,  
The Eldest company will but awake her lust;  
Nor shall the youngest find reason to despair  
She'll not hold out, she's returned quick.—!—  Enter Dorot. Dorot. 
My Lady (seemingly) thanks the fair  
Aurelia, and doth return her service, but so  
Coldly, as if she intended not to deserve  
Wages for it.  Ferdin. 
'Tis strange my only joy, (for so I now  
Shall make bold to call you) can you guests the cause?  Dorat. 
Why truly yes, (I shall not doubt your secrecy)  Ferdin. 
Not if you think I love; Racks cannot  
Force reveal, when you command a silence.  Dorot. 
Then know, my Lady hates Aurelia,  
More than she loves to be admired.  Ferdin. 
And that's enough. By what strange means  
Hath she deserved it?  Dorot. 
Her envy for the favours, the King  
(Is pleased) bestow on her, while she  
(As she conceives) is slighted.  Ferdin. 
'Tis probable, And what you have pleased  
To impart, is with my love locked here.—  Points to his heart. 
This kiss. Time calls away,—  Kisses her. 
When Cupid knows 'tis here, my heart bids stay,—  Exit Ferdin: Dorot. 
Blessings go with thee; despair not wench.  
My dream some pleasure brought  
A real wake's beyond a sleeping thought.—  Exit. Dorot. Enter Delirus Sol. From the camp. 
Artesia not at Court? with her my business lies,  
What ever to my father I pretend.  
'Tis well the King picked out Aurelia for his  
Choice, my jealous heart first at the sound  
He loved, began to faint.  Enter Anto. Eugenio. Anto. 
Delirus, welcome to Court  
We hope the valiant General (your Noble father)  
Enjoys his health.  Deli. 
He does; and by me salutes you both  
As his best of friends.  Anto. 
We thank him, and wish victory may  
Crown his actions.  Deli. 
You make him happy in such noble friendship.  
Pray Gentlemen how fares it with our virtuous King?  
The camp generally speaks him in love,  
In which they wish him prosper.  Eugenio. 
So we do all, as you in your fair Choice, Artesia  Deli. 
Truly Eugenio, I should be proud for  
To be known her servant, (would she accept the  
Service.) And do confess it were a happiness,  
I know none greater could I deserve her favour, which  
She well knows I am too unworthy of.  Eugenio. 
A soldier Delirus, and doubt the Conquest.  
Men that would seem to know,  
Reports she loves you.  Deli. 
Eugenio report's their own.  
I shall believe it too, when (truth 'tis known  Enter Artesia. Anto. 
See where she comes, a confirmation  
To your wished success, Crown your desires—  Exit. Anto. Eugenio. Deli. 
Content wait on Artesia, fairest of thy sex—  Kisses her. Artesi. 
Delirus welcome, how fair  
Our friends i'th' camp.  Deli. 
As men, whose swords your beauty  
Sharpens; resolvedly well.  Artesi. 
Sure you mistake Delirus, you mean  
The King's Mistress, the fair Aurelia.  Deli. 
Madam; The King looks not with  
My eyes, he is young, and possible may err in's  
Tender judgement. would he be tried by votes,  
His double voice would hardly carry it.  Artesi. 
You have a smack o'th' Court yet;  
Delirus this savours not o'th' Camp;  
Do they dissemble there too?  Deli. 
My faithful love speak for me,  
I understand it not.  Artesi. 
Do you love me then?  Deli. 
So well, I must not live, if you  
Refuse to accept it.  Artesi. 
But.  Deli. 
But, what Madam? If a piece of duty,  
Within the compass of my poor power, hath  
Been by me neglected, let me but know  
Wherein I have offended, and I'll redeem it,  
Though with the loss of life.  Artesia, 
I take you at your word. And know, I can  
Return so much of love again, I equally will engage it'h  
Hazard, dare you (with me) join, to revenge  
My wrongs? till righted, I have vowed  
A single life  Deli. 
Else may my blood turn cold as Iberian Ice;  
And may my name be (through all after Ages)  
Blasted with coward.  Artesi. 
Enough, I dare not doubt the non performance,  
Of what's so firmly bound, yet lest you startle,  
I Must enjoin your secrecy,  Deli. 
Which I (by all the Gods) vow to perform.  Artesi. 
Then know, it is the King hath wronged me,  
Dare you now right me.  Deli. 
Protect me all you powers; the King; pray speak—  He starts. 
That I may understand you.  Artesi. 
Then thus, the love he bears Aurelia, too loudly is  
Proclaimed not to be known by you, who not content  
(In public to acknowledge) must in the face of all the Court,  
Make me, his scornful mirth, whilst every saucy flattering groom,  
Derides my sufferings, as one, that not deserved  
Common commiseration: you now have understood my  
Grief, and if your love burn with that fervent  
Flame, you have with protestation here professed,  
I shall expect you Act, what I prescribe, and you  
Engaged (by oath) stand bound for to perform  Deli. 
Why do I shake? you have an Angel's shape,  
Proclaims you virtue's storehouse; there cannot then proceed,  
Forth from a Mine of virtue, a bastard issue.  
I know you are as good as fair, and in that  
Confidence, stand prepared, to put in execution,  
What you vouchsafe command.  Artesi. 
The King then must not live.  Deli. 
The gods forbidden it, my blood gins to i'll,  
The very name of King, hath struck an icy coldness  
Through my veins, my sinews shrink, and strength  
(Like an ungrateful servant) deserts me in  
My misery. O yet be merciful; and let this piece  
Of life I hold, appease your anger, and  
Redeem my King  Artesi. 
You have shown your love, valour, and strength  
Of protestations in your fear. I did but this to try  
You, suppose t'had been a subject wronged me.  Deli. 
O that again, and but the knowledge of a name,  
You'd have destroyed, and by our loves 'tis done.  Artesi. 
'Tis Aurelia.  Deli. 
A simple woman, poor maid, I am thy murderer.  Artesi. 
A soldier Delirus, and so tender conscienc'd,  
Think what 'tis you enjoy (my love) no beggars fortune  
With it; besides I'll take you off from being  
Executioner, which if enjoined you were bound  
For to perform by Oath. Ferdinando servant  
To old Sebastian, is poor, and vehemently  
Courts my woman, who with the promise  
Of her love and gold to boot, you easily may  
Tempt, for to perform the deed, either  
By poison, or as you both shall else contrive.  
What hopes can you expect, I can enjoy a peace  
Within myself, when she is Queen, that at the  
Hopes of rising, dares publicly affront me?  
You cannot love, and yet refuse to right me.  
I must acknowledge. I have not boasted much of  
Love to you, yet dare confess,  
Had you been wronged like me, my tears bear—  Pretends to weep. 
Witness for me; I should have righted you  
Though life had been engaged.  Deli. 
As I will thee, urge it no more, 'tis done;  
Dry those fair eyes.  
This kiss confirms she sleeps, Aurelia dead  
Our joys at full, leap to our marriage bed.—  Ex Ambo Enter Snap, Captain Thunder, Lieutenant Cannon, and Ensign Drake. Snap. 
You understand your charge.  Thund. 
At full.  Snap. 
Then see you do performed with care,  
As you expect to eate again.  Thund. 
Thou man of Mars we shall, recrutes  
Must then accrue the trifling summs exhausted we  
Received Not a denier, our linings can produce.  Snap. 
Already gone, all on the gut or have you victualled  
For this week, fearing a siege of Bailiffs; pray let  
Me understand what you must spend a day, I  
May prepare to furnish you, my Ignorance  
May make me err.  Cannon. 
Nobly spoken, and to the purpose,  
Thou man of metal. Captain our usual rates declare.  Capt. 
Lieutenant, I understand you, you mean  
When loaden with the spoil, we did return victors  
From Poland.  Ensig. 
Or when that powerful arm (with  
Our assistance) fell on the rear of th' Swiss;  
In which great slaughter we seized ten thousand  
Pounds, then but a trifle.  Lieu. 
Or,  Snap. 
Or when you spoke truth, which no man  
Can remember. Come, come, no noise, nor blustering—  Snap stopps the Lieutenant's mouth. 
Here, I understand you well, and shall (if you dare  
Talk such words;) but when I licence you, return  
You with your leaguer pipes to the chimney-corner,  
Where when your doxies nim the pocket small,  
You then perhaps may drink again, and then  
Betwixt each draught, recount your valorous acts  
To oyster wives, who can admire them, and  
Weep at every arm or leg, you philip from the  
Foe, sighing parentheses at your sad Catastrophe,  
Why you worms, poor as Carthusian munks,  
That borrow titles, to fright Tapsters from their reckon,  
And dare usurp titles of honour you never understood,  
Can you hope with your conned speeches ever to possess, me  
With belief, that you were valiant; or ever fought,  
But when engaged for reckon with your Host,  
Or with the boys for to redeem your Ladies  
From the pump, which you protect not out of love,  
But livelihood; and though the sin of theft  
You love, as what you live by, yet dare you not  
Attempt yourselves, more for fear of beating then  
The law. But thrust your females into danger,  
Who once a month do penance under last for  
Your maintenance. What, all silent? Lieutenant, faith  
What might your last great victory in Poland  
Be worth to you? Ensign; speak, what brave a  
Acheivements lately.  Cap. 
Thou man of knowledge, we do recant,  
Nor will we more the History of war repeat.  Lieu. 
Victorious Sir, we are your captives,  
Command and we'll obey.  Snap. 
Then to your holes again; all is forgot,  
Your bodies Il' see vampt; which if you dare  
But pawn, I'll ' find a bailiff shall Command  
In chief, mean time her's to subsist,—  Gives them money. 
Till further order you receive; and as you do  
Expect supplies from me, be careful in the  
Husbanding of this, adieu—  Exit. Snap. Capt. 
Heroic Sir, Your bounty hath chained us to  
Your commands, we are your moving creatures.—  Ex. Om. Enter Sebastian Ferdin. Sebast. 
Breathe there in Christian shape,  
Such monsters? Ferdinando, be careful in your relation,  
They're things you utter of a high concernment;  
Suppose Artesia monstrous as you make her,  
Delirus hath a noble soul, and surely would not  
Aid her in a fact, but to repeat is horrid;  
Besides Aurelia (poor Girl) ne'er understood  
What 'twas to injure any thing had life.  Ferdin. 
O Sir, your noble soul (too innocent to  
Understand the guilt in their foul breasts) will  
Not give leave to think; what pride and envy harbour.  
My service (though far unworthy your  
Acceptance) after this ten years' trial (I hope)  
Cannot beget suspicion of a truth; I sound can  
Maintain. Behold this—  Pulls out a purse. 
Purse full of Delirus gold, by him put in this  
Hand to murder your Aurelia.  Sebast. 
Protect her you just powers,  
Why didst thou take it?  Ferdin. 
To save her life, which else had been  
In hazard. Had I refused to undertake the  
Murder, my single testimony would have appeared  
My shame, as not believed, when he should  
Please deny it; and some distressed wretch tempted  
With gold, have been her executioner.  Schast. 
Thy bare testimony, is yet all can be  
Alleged against them.  Ferdin. 
Her woman with me is bribed, who as they  
Vainly think I fond dote upon, who I must  
Have in marriage (for sooth) into boot;  
Who should I urge to witness against the  
Murderers, she might be bribed 'gainst me.  Sebast. 
Thou faithfullest of servants, preserver  
Of our lives, my wretched state unable to  
Requite thee, produceth tears of sorrow.—  He weeps, 
The gods reward thy trust, and may they bountifully  
Shower their blessings on thy head.  Ferdin. 
My Honoured Lord, dry those aged  
Eyes, for my reward his great, in your  
Acknowledging me your creature; it was but mercy  
To myself, to keep myself from sin. Honoured  
Sir, Think what's to be done, in what so  
Much concerns you.  Sebast. 
The thought of so much wickedness,  
Captives my reason, I know not what to think, or  
Do; what dost thou think most fit?  Ferdin. 
Since you are pleased command my  
Poor advice, my duty binds me thus. The  
Favour our virtuous King hath deigned to shower  
On your fair daughter, hath been great,  
And what may swell to yet stands doubtful.  
Can you (with the consent of her) unknown  
To the Court, for a small time convey her to so me place  
Of safety; the King would then (as needs you  
Must pretend no knowledge of her being) express  
That love as yet is but suspected; the which  
When known, as your grave wisdom shall direct, our  
Course we'll steer, besides my attendance on her  
In disguise makes for my safety. And if so  
Great and honourable a charge may be committed  
To me unworthy, I shall with care and duty  
Express my joy to embrace it.  Sebast. 
Ferdinando, I should ungrateful be,  
For to suspect neglect of care of her, thou hast preserved  
From death; take her into thy charge, she is  
Still Aurelia; who knows not how to disobey,  
Whatever I command.  
Blessings light on you both, you prosper must,  
Where there's so good a child, a man so just—  Ex. Ambo. Enter Delirus Sol. Deli. 
How black and ugly to myself do I  
Myself appear? methinks my hands look  
Bloody; and my friends stare on my face with that  
Unaccustomed earnestness, as if they saw my  
Gild. 'Tis but my foolish fancy, a factious spirit  
Within me that rebels, which I'll suppress.  
How many thousand in our kingdom quaff  
Up this cup, that never start in sleep. And yet  
Methinks sometimes I hear the innocent fair on,  
With milky hands held up for mercy  
Pleading. Artesia too (the price of blood)  
Who I must love if live; she yet as fair  
Appears as Sainted innocence, sure 'twas but  
Justice in her, and no fault at all. Then am I  
Quit, when we too are but one.  Enter Artesia. 
See where she comes, no Angel but of light,  
Durst ere assume that shape. Justice itself,  
Must quit me for a fact, the gods would have  
Committed, to have enjoyed that Saint.  
What man that is but mortal would refuse my guilt,  
But for to touch that lip? My Artesia, I bring  
You joy; Aurelia's not long lived  Artesi. 
My dear Delirus, is it done?  Deli. 
Few hours will confirm it, the slave  
Bitten greedily at the golden bait, and cunningly  
Contrived her death, as thus. He as his custom is,  
trusted to guard Aurelia in her private walks,  
Drills her to the sea side; where drowned, he  
strait way ships for flight.  Artesi. 
'Tis to my wish; but from my woman,  
This must be kept close, she dotes on him,  
And must not know his flight.  Deli. 
Aptly considered, her death once known  
Our longed for joys draw near. Sweetest fair one,  
I must a little leave thee, and to Court; from whence  
I hope to bring thee news, she's lost;  
This kiss, farewell.—  kisses her. Artesi. 
Pray make no stay.  Deli. 
When thou command'st 'twere sin, not to obey—  Ex. Deli. Artesi. 
How vainly hope, fond fools deludes:  
Delirus, thou art contracted my instrument, not yet  
My husband; where there's a Prince, I cannot love  
A subject; Aurelia dead? Delirus stands too deep engaged  
(Although his passion boil) to dare an injury to me.  
And then, (who knows,) but that the King may cast his eyes  
On me; my wealth and beauty, (if I mistake not) will put  
Him to his travels to outmatch them.  
That spirit's poor, and weak that judgement's seen,  
Who lives a subject that may be a Queen.—  Exit Enter Snap, Gold. Gold. Snap. 
'Tis strange; I do nothing but dream  
Of that Lady, I would I were a Colonel we might be  
Married: When shall I see my Officers?  Snap. 
I have appointed some of them to wait upon you  
Here, I wonder at their stay, I hope they're not  
Engaged in fight; which should they be in  
Some unlucky quarrel,  
The streets would bleed.  Gold. 
Will they fight so Snap; they'll not be angry with  
Me, that give them money I hope.  
What are their names? how must I call them?  Snap. 
You must observe their Titles, as I present them  
To you; the Captain (however, through the fortune  
Of the wars, brought low) is Nobly born and  
Must your kinsman be, as one that's near allied unto  
The fair Artesia, your beauteous Mistress; whom you (with  
Great respect must use) as the only man, should  
She prove coy, can make you happy in her marriage;  
For know, she fortifies herself upon his judgement,  
And must approve her choice.  Gold. 
Honest Snap; how I love thee; then he says I shall  
Have her? If he do, he shall want nothing.  Snap. 
Sir, I have procured you his consent; and know  
He could not want, would his great spirit give him  
Leave to spend some of his Cousins thousands;  
Which as she's a woman, he scorns to do. And to the  
Furtherance of your business, know you are much in's  
Favour, he will accept your money.  Gold. 
Which Snap, he shall not want while  
I have any; and so I'll tell him.  Snap. 
'Twere an affront, your life would hardly satisfy;  
For know, what ere (by me) you let him have,  
Should he perceive that you but notice took on't; his fury  
would be great, and he in scorn return your money, besides  
The certain loss, of your fair Mistress.  Gold. 
Sayst thou me so Snap; why then I'll not say  
A word on't.  Snap. 
By no means Sir; I think I hear them coming.  Enter Lieutenant Cannon, Ensign Drake. holding Captain Thunder, with their swords drawn Lieutenant. 
Renowned Captain, the slaughter (you have  
Made is great, and fury may be slacked.  Captain. 
Now by my father's Ghost (who when alive)  
The Tamer of the Eastern world, let go your hold,  
Or mercy I forget. And shall the son of Mars be barked at,  
By the whelps of Lily, and not destroy the fry?  Snap. 
Sir, speak to the Noble Captain,  
You may appease his fury.  Gold. 
Pray Sir, let me entreat you put up your Sword.  Capt. 
Sir you have prevailed,—  Puts up his sword. 
Your breath hath from the jaws of death,  
Redeemed the caitiffs, which else had slept.  Gold. 
Sir I thank you, pray how  
fell you out?  Capt. 
Lieutenant, my breath is hot, declare  
To this (my Noble friend) the matter.  Lieu. 
Then mark, for thus it chanced:  
My ever to be renowned Captain, from  
Visiting his Cousin, (a virtuous Lady your  
Worthy self is pleased to honour with the name of  
Mistress) her coach being—  Gold. Hum, Hum. 
Otherwise employed, on foot made hither;  
When in the street (and not far hence) some scattered  
Troops, of Curiassiers chanced to pass by, a  
Officer it'h Rear, (whether by chance) or at  
My Captain is unknown, held up his finger to his  
Nose; which soon my Captain seeing, (not  
Used to such affronts) strait drew his sword,  
And with a blow glanced from his  
Armour, killed his horse.  Snap. 
The Officers horse you mean,  
That held his finger up.  Lieu. 
The very same; when on the ground,  
My Captain scorning to take advantage on  
His foe, gave him fair leave to rise,  
Who being up presumed to draw, (which dear  
He paid for); for with the loss of his sword  
Hand, he was forced retreat; my Captain being  
Merciful, was pacified with this. His bloody  
Sword, not being fully sheathed, when back,  
A Troop returned threatening (aloud revenge)  
But had you seen, (how then) like lightning, my Captain  
Flew about him, you would have thought, the god  
Of war, had then descended from his throne.  
For to destroy the world; my Captain by the multitude  
Engaged, we to his rescue drew; who we,  
Through lanes of scatterred limbs redeemed, and as you saw  
Brought off, impatient we withheld him  
From further pursuit of the foe.  Snap. 
With what a confidence the impudent rogue  
Delivers his invention.—  aside Capt. 
Lieutenant, no more, the skirmish is not worthy mention,  
Sir your attention hath been great to what deserves but  
Little, I shall be honoured in your acquaintance as  
One, my fair Cousin Artesia, is proud to call her Servant:  
Pray take some notice of these Gentlemen,  
However fortune plays the whore with them,  
You'll find them men of metal.  Snap. 
If of any, 'twill be of his own—  aside Gold. 
Gentlemen, I am proud to be your friend.  Lieu. 
As we to acknowledge ourselves to be your  
Vassals, Noble Colonel.  Capt. 
Noble Cousin, for shortly I must call you so.  Gold. 
Good Captain no more of fight  
If you love me, I shall ne'er hold out another Conquest.  Capt. 
The Drums shall beat no more, nor Trumpets  
Sound of war, what think you of the Spanish  
Grape? Shall we to the Tavern go my valiant Colonel?  
Where we will toss your mistress in good Canary.  Gold. 
Valiant Colonel, he has it right. Captain I'll wait on  
You, but Gentlemen there will be no fight?  Capt. 
Who draws his steels; my foe.  Gold. 
Nay Gentlemen; if there should, you see I am  
Not unprovided; but Noble Captain let not your Cousin,—  Points to his sword. 
Know I am given to quarrelling.  Capt. 
He sleeps, that dares pronounce it.  
Colonel pray lead the way.  
A feast my stomach, better fits, than fray.  Snap. 
Miraculous! he has uttered truth—  Aside. Gold. 
Come Snap. Ensign command your  
Lieutenant to follow—  Ex. Om. Enter Antonio, Cornelius, Eugenio. Eugen. 
'Tis above wonder, where she should be,  
If dead she would be found; and if alive,  
I know no cause of discontent, she had  
To quit the Court.  Anto. 
It is a thing, there's not two heads in all the Court,  
Greenshield in one thought. Some that that the King is  
Privy to her retirement; others that she's made away,  
But on what grounds, they know not, and every one their  
Verdict spends, while none knows where she is.  Cornel. 
That which, to me most strange appears, is  
That her father, the lord Sebastian; (enraged  
With sorrow) utterly disclaims the knowledge of  
Her being; but that which much suspicion breeds, is  
That Ferdinando is missing too, who questionless (if  
Alive) must know how she's disposed of; the  
Fellow too, ever accounted entirely  
Faithful to his master.  Eugen. 
What course is taken in the  
Search of her.  Anton. 
To all parts messengers dispatched;  
Noble Delirus, Welcome, Is fair  Enter Delirus. 
Aurelia heard of?  Deli. 
Nor will be I think. Gentlemen good day to you.  
The King is close retired into his closet, nor will  
Admit to speak with any.  Cornel. 
If so, 'tis then without dispute, he knows not  
Of her being.  Deli. 
'Tis bu'zd (but upon what intelligence I know not)  
That she was seen near the sea side, some that  
She's fled with Ferdinando; others that Pirates seized  
Her, but both improbable; the harbour being  
So near, and yet none know it.  Enter King. King. 
Gentlemen, a nobler employment (at such a time  
As this) would more become you all. All leave us—  Ex. All but King, 
The fair Aurelia gone, and none knows whether?  
Yes, there is some that knows— it must be so.  
I am confirmed in't, This is our General's plot.  
'Tis he is King, and he shall rule; he had no way but  
This, to gain it with his credit; sure he would  
Not murder her, he lives not that can do't, and  
Look her in the face. The Courtiers cannot all be  
Ignorant of this, (but I may find a time to pay  
Them for their Loyalty) Poor harmless maid, thy  
Virtue all good men should protect, hath been  
Thy ruin. You gods above (the just protectors  
Of my childhood) give me a manly patience to  
Undergo what you are pleased to inflict upon me  
I must dissemble grief, how ere unfit to act  
Another part. Aurelia, Thy King must now  
Turn wanderer; for by those gods whose aid I crave,  
I'll ' leave no ground unsearched, while life supports  
My fainting limbs, till I'm confirmed thou art alive  
Or dead.  
If living ' In rewarded, but if dead  
That grave enjoys thy body, is my bed.    

ACT. III.  

SCENE I.  Enter Anto. Euge. Cornel. Anto. 
THese storms presage no good. The  
General now arrived at Court,  
Whose business with the King requires haste; Delirus  
With confidence conveys him to the King his  
Closet; where when arrived, instead of King  
They found a letter with his own hand writ, directed  
To the General. what the contents are, is unknown  
To any but himself, but his distracted looks  
Speak them not pleasing. The Gods prevent  
What I much fear.  Cornel. 
'Tis to be feared indeed; this strange conveyance of  
Aurelia we sadly may lament; for questionless he  
Loved her much, but where he should abscond  
Himself, or go without assistance of some i'th' Court,  
Is more than ordinary strange. The gods instruct  
His youth, and bring to light the authors of these troubles.  Euge. 
Amen; Nor is there missed (a man) it'h  
Court, we can conceive the King would make  
Privy to any secret design of his; it is impossible  
He should be far or long unheard of; But see,  
Here comes the General.  Enter General Delirus Fabius. The General reading to himself the King his letter. Gener. 
The gods assist me, what ridl's this?  
Gentlemen. Antonio your ear, The rest I  
Shall entreat forbear the room.  
Antonio; The King I ever—  Ex. All but the General, and Anto! 
Have observed, hath loved you much, nor  
Hath it been without your just desert. Pray peruse  
That letter, it must be he (if any) the King—  Anto. Reads to himself. 
Imparts his secrets to—  Aside. Anto. 
My Lord. I understand it not, more  
Than that Aurelia being strangely shuffled out  
O'th' way o'th' sudden, where none will seem to know,  
Hath caused his discontent.  Gen. 
Aurelia; (the gods protect her innocence)  
I hope she is not murdered.  Anto. 
My Lord, I hope so too, for sure  
there's not (on earth) a soul so black,  
Can act the murderer.  Gen. 
Forbidden it all you powers, knows not the  
Lord Sebastian of her being?  Anto. 
His grief and close retirement,  
Confirms him ignorant.  Gen. 
I am amazed with horror; Antonio prithee  
Read out, for sure my aged eyes mistake,  
Or else I fain would think so.—  Anto. Reads to him the King's letter. Amasius. Anto. 
My Lord, we received yours, dated  
The fifteenth of this instant; but were to weak in  
Judgement to understand your plot. Which the  
obscureness of our travel confirms, takes well;  
Some small pretence of sorrow for my departure,  
May make good your title. I am in health,  
And shall return ere long: In the mean time,  
Remember I had a father loved his subjects well.  
If you have spared the life of poor Aurelia, use  
Her as one, on whose well doing my life depends.  Gen. 
Rash and uncharitable young man,  
My tears in pity—  Weeps. 
For thy folly shall Plead me guiltless. Have I  
With sweat and blood (proud of the toil) this  
Thirty years and upward; when this unhappy  
Kingdom with fear and conquest almost spent,  
Redeemed thy totering state from swift approaching  
Slavery, when every eye proclaimed their fear,  
And every down cast look despair.  
Raised thy low sunk fortunes to such a height,  
Thy (than victorious foe) now trembles to behold?  
And must I now have treason and murder  
Laid to my charge for my reward.  
Antonio thou art honest, one that the flattering  
Court could ne'er bring (yet) i'th' fashion;  
Prithee tell me, have I deserved this black,  
Ungrateful charge?  Anto. 
My Honoured Lord, may I become a scorn  
To virtue, if ought of these sad accidents  
I know; nor can I guests from whence the  
Rise should come, more than the discontent  
Your letter brought with it.  Gen. 
Protect me innocence; my letter were  
Your partaker, made of the contents.  Anto. 
Only my Lord, your mild dissuasion  
From Aurelia's love.  Gen. 
Curse on the time I moved him in't;  
But 'tis no time to talk. Antonio, by the  
Dear and tender love thou bearest the King,  
Labour his search in what thou may'st.  
Patience assist me, thy need I ne'er more wanted,  
Our speedy course must be to lay the ports.  
The gods direct us for the best, and may he be  
Accursed for ever sought this miser:  Anto. 
My Lord, in what you please  
Command, I ever shall obey—  Exit. Enter Aurelia Ferdin. Disguised as shepherds. Aureli. 
Ferdinando, what place is this?  Ferdin. 
Madam, The village near is called Felix.  
The country (we are in) the fair valley, the  
Only seat for shepherds, and pastoral delights our  
Country yields.  Aureli. 
That little of the world my youth hath  
Travelled through, never yet discovered to my  
Sense a place of so much beauty. The  
Guiltless here (perhaps) may walk, protected  
With their innocence, free from Artesia's  
Envy. My doubtful thoughts will  
Hardly give me leave to credit, Artesia  
Meant me so much harm. Truly I ever loved  
Her well, and can forgive her, would she yet be good.  Ferdin. 
O Madam, your clear virtue,  
Unspotted with the thought of sins of that  
High nature, pleads ignorance in the trade the  
Vicious husband.—  Enter Amint. Sol. 
Here comes a shepherd with a sad aspect  Lies on the ground. 
So please you Madam step aside unseen,  
We will observe—  They step aside. Amint. 
And must Amintor, poor Amintor,  
Only be the object of Cleora's scorn. My harmless  
Sheep bleating bewail my moan.  
And every Shepherdess but she,  
In pity can bewail my misery.  
But 'tis Amintor's fault, whose slow paced Courtship  
seldom conquers love.  
He must be bold, and active in embraces, that gains desire,  
While I with bashful dulness quench the fire.  
Why do I blame the fair Cleora? when bashful  
Fear in me, may possibly in her beget the like  
Suspect. Forgive me fair Cleora, that uncharitably  
Condemn my Judge, before there's sentence given:  
But I'll ' repent, and let the fair one know,  
How much of love (though dare not speak) I owe.—  Enter Streph. 
Cupid, assist me as I thee obey,  
If that offend, what then must be the way.  Streph. 
hay day, what stuff's here: This should be  
The pitiful Amintor by his sad complaints.  
'Tis he; Amintor, what not yet contracted to  
Cleora? 'Tis much she should continue coy,  
And you Court her at this distance.  
In the name of Cupid how long hast thou lost  
Thy wits, thou worshipper of weathercocks.  
Come, come, listen to my good counsel, that shall  
Convert thy Pagan Idolatry.—  Strephon sits down by Amintor Streph. 
Cease Amintor, cease for shame,  
Let not dotage blast thy name.  
Love but as I do, dote on none,  
A woman's worthless when she's known.  
Love this fair face to day, to morrow t'other;  
When that's enjoyed, think where to find another.  Amin. 
Tell me master of your Art,  
You that can command your heart.  
So to love; (if love it be)  
You profess to every she.  
How Courtlike you can swear each face you see  
Though forty in one day, still Captives thee.  Streph. 
I had rather swear for to enjoy,  
Then Captived be, by one that's coy.  
Man naturally freedom loves,  
Leave chastity to Turtle Doves;  
For he's as blind as love, that fettered lies;  
Beauty when men are fond will tyrannise.  Amint. 
Couldst thou but unswear an oath,  
As freely as thou breakest thy troth;  
Or couldst thou but as constant be,  
In aught else, as in inconstancy:  
You than might painfully confess with me,  
You love too much, for min's Idolatry.  Streph. 
When fading beauty shall disguise  
My free born heart to Idolise;  
I then perhaps, may pity thee,  
As partner in thy misery.  
Variety of dishes is my fare,  
That face I ne'er yet saw, when seen is rare.  Amint. 
Thinkest thou I'll pity crave of thee  
Or ruin love, variety▪  
No Strephon; no, thy change of fare,  
Diseases breed; sad looks, despair:  
Whilst I triumphantly despise thy charms,  
And laugh at thee, in my Cleora's arms.  Streph. 
Amintor thou art lost, good counsel is  
Cast away upon thee: did ever man complain  
Of cruelty on her, that hardly knows  
Thou lov'st? or if she do, 'tis but at second  
Hand. Rise and repent, and I'll be merciful and  
Court her for thee; or if of late you are so valiant grown,  
You dare alone venture the thing (you call a virtue)  
Your chastity, with Cleora: go and whine  
Out in some sad madrigal your dotage;  
Which she'll in scorn deride,  
Hadst thou my Confidence, she were thy Bride.  Amin. 
Away thou lewd profaner of  
Those rites; the god of holy marriages must  
Punish for thy perjuries.  
'Tis sin gainest Cupit, to hear  
Such profanation.  Streph. 
Amintor thou art past recovery, I'll  
To my wanton Nymphs,  
Who love like me,  Ex. sever. 
Not so to dote, yet fancy any Herald—  Amintor passeth by Aurelia. Ferdinand. 
Honest shepherd stay.  Aureli. 
Virtuous shepherd, may Hymen to your  
Blessed content crown all your chaste desires.  Amin. 
Fair Nymph, if yet not wed,  
The self same wish attend thy marriage bed.  Ferdinand. 
Courteous shepherd, can you entertain  
This Nymph and I; who much desirous, to imitate that  
Harmless life, we hear you prosper in, hither invited  
Us? Our stock is not so great to boast, nor yet so poor  
To fear a want; your looks speaks you a  
Friend to strangers, who can forget to live,  
Sooner than be ungrateful.  Amin. 
Truly I pity you as strangers, and  
Should be proudly glad to entertain you, were I  
But master of where withal; for know  
I am but a servant to my father,  
An ancient shepherd age gives not leave  
To go abroad, his house is not far distant  
Hence, a poor small cottage; such as it is  
Please you to go with me, my poor endeavours  
Shall not be wanting, for what  
It can afford.  Ferd. 
Brother, we thank you, and shall to  
Th' utmost you shall please demand, prove your  
Faithful paymasters. My sister here unused  
To travel, would gladly be at rest,  
Please you to lead the way?  Amin. 
Most willingly, this is your path,—  Ex. Om. Enter Delirus, Artesia, severally. Deli. 
Fairest of creatures, I can (aloud) proclaim tyidings  
Of joy, Aurelia's death, Ferdinando's flight; and what  
Beyond our wishes, most happily falls out; the  
King in discontent hath left the Court,  
I hope ne'er to return.  Artesi. 
Delirus, it is a Traitor's wish.  Deli. 
How Artesia?  Artesi. 
You understand me sure, if I  
Mistake not; he is your King, or aught to be.  
Fie Delirus, so long a Courtier, and not  
Know your duty.  Deli. 
I am confounded, sure 'tis not Artesia.  Artesi. 
For that I shall resolve you strait.  
'Tis the very same.—  Looks in her glass. 
Where are your eyes?  Deli. 
My reason's at a loss, this cannot be;  
Come, come, no more of this, beshrew me,  
But you almost staggered me, I know now  
'Twas but in jest to try my temper,  
And I forgive it.  Artes. 
Ha, hah! forgive it? you are not my Ghostly—  Laughs. 
Father, 'Twas language might have become your  
King, but sounds to saucy for a subject.  Deli. 
Nay now Artesia, you over act your part, this  
Kiss concludes the Scene.—  Offers to kiss her, she thrusts him by. Artesi. 
You are abominably out Delirus, you  
Should have acted at more distance, you must go con your  
Part anew, and learn to know, to whom you are to speak.  
The Poet ma● instruct you.  Deli. 
May I believe this real, and from Artesia?  Artesi. 
‛ That's as you please; I gladly would find  
Out a way would more confirm you, which  
I shall study, since plain dealing will not do.  Deli. 
By what neglect of mine, have I deserved this scorn;  
Let me but know, if but to lessen my admiration?  Artesi. 
Neglect of duty to your King (if well  
Examined) you'll find deserves no less.  Deli. 
Why Artesia, can neglect of duty be a  
Fault in me, to him you would have murdered?  
Pray recollect, and but consider what you'd  
Have courted me to do, which I refused in duty.  Artesi. 
This but confirms thy ignorance, which  
Would not let thee see I did it but to try  
You, in which assurance know, there's not on earth  
A thing can acceptable be, from you to me,  
But your diligent search o'th' King,  
Who when you have found, and that  
You tidings bring of his dear safety; I  
May forget your faults, tell when  
I take my leave.—  Exit. Artesi. Deli. 
The gods above are just, nor am I  
Punished yet to my desert.  
Here but gins your justice, which must so heavy fall,  
That but to think of, wracks my Eclipsed soul.  
Aurelia now afresh gins t' appear, her hair  
Disheve'ld 'bout her Ivory skin, threatening (aloud)  
Revenge. Thou shall have justice fair innocent,  
And thy appeased ghost, no more be put to wander  
Through the deep in ghastly horror. Artesia, 'tis time  
To think of death; for rather (then to my shame)  
I'll ' live to see thee lodged within another's arms;  
I will in death enjoy, what (scornfully) thou hast  
Alive refused; from this accursed hour, let no man  
Ere believe a woman can be true; And where  
There wants invention to contrive a just man's fall,  
Think of Artesia. O women, women! The sun whose  
Glorious beams survey the frantic world,  
Would stay his motion and stand still, as proud  
For to behold a constant fair one.  
Why should their inside be so foul, there out so fair,  
But to entrap mortality? but I too late (with  
Death must purchase knowledge.  
Bad consciences are household clocks that tells,  
On earth one minutes joy, ten thousand hells.—  Exit. Enter Bellira sol. Deli. 
Angels protect my Lady, what ground so ere  
She treads, it was unkindly done, not to acquaint  
Me with her flight, for sure it must be so, for when my lord  
(In tears) saw me bewail (as by my fear, I did conceive)  
Her loss, he did with cheerful looks (such as  
Would seem) confirm the knowledge of her safety;  
Put me in lively hopes she lived.  
His language too, who would not say she lived;  
Would not confess, he thought her dead:  
But what of all I least can understand, is that when any  
But myself, (of those same few he will admit) name  
But daughter, or Aurelia, he throws him on his bed;  
And for the while they stay, ne'er answers to them more;  
Some thing there is, I fain would understand,  
But dare not urge to know, the gods above assist her,  
What ere her undertake be.—  Enter Snap. Snap. 
Health to Bellira. what no news  
Yet of Aurelia's being?  Belli. 
Not any; only bare hopes she's well.  Snap. 
From whence spring they?  Belli. 
From little else more than that I fain would hope  
The best; yet Ferdinando's being with her  
Doth half assure me she can have no harm,  
As one, whose actions were ever known virtuous,  
And Noble.  Snap. 
I understand you well, the Character you give  
Him▪ plainly speaks you love him; which is the  
Cause you embrace so coldly, what I have laboured for;  
But know Goldcalf will be delayed no longer,  
Therefore you must prepare, to morrow to be his bride.  
What more whining? I had thought your  
Resolution had been fixed, or after all my  
Pains; must I yet travel for it?—  Bellira knelt. 
What may this mean?  Belli. 
O worthy brother! If ever tears and prayers  
Unfeigned, from a distressed maid did move  
Compassion, behold (with pity) your miserable  
Sister, who cruel fortune hath so unkindly dealt  
With, that I must choose to lose my brother,  
Or my life. And with the loss of that, I am  
Resolved to purchase peace hereafter. Heaven  
Knows I mean no other force to do't, more  
Than the confirmation of the match you speak of:  
'Twill soon dispatch me, yet in obedience to  
Your will, that little time I have to live  
I'll call him husband.—  Sheriseth. Snap. 
Never, never Bellira; Thou hast a noble  
soul, not fit to match in dunghill breed.  
And know I practised but a trial of thy love to me,  
Be happy in thy choice who e'er it be.  
Thy love confirms my liking. For know, I  
Have fit instruments to compass my honest  
Ends on Goldcalfe, (how e'er the busy world  
May judge my actions) for well thou knowest, his  
Griping father, with base cozenage.  
Ruined my uncle, so consequently me.  
This the world knows is meet,  
To cheat the cozener, can be no deceit.  Belli. 
Worthy Brother, you have revived  
My blood that 'gan (apace) to i'll  
Within my veins; for which, the life I hold, shall  
Ever be employed, as you shall please dispose  
Of it. May all your undertake prosper  
To your hearts desire. You have no present business  
To command me? if not, my  
Occasions call.  Snap. 
Bellira, first know, I have prepared a habit for you  
You must put on to further my designs;  
A man you must appear Bellira for a few hours,  
Which shall be undiscovered to any but myself,  
I shall instruct you in the part you have to  
Act, at our next meeting: it is a trust Bellira,  
I dare impose in none but you;  
Till when farewell.  Belli. 
Which I shall gladly execute,  
As you shall please command—  Ex. Ambo. Enter Corneli. Eugenio. Corneli. 
Antonio's gone in search o'th' King.  Eugenio. 
May his endeavours prosper; what a  
Hum this accident hath raised i'th' Court: In  
What strange shape▪ and by whose assistance,  
He could contrive (so suddenly) his this,  
So secret being, begets in me a wonder. The gods  
Divert his mind from quitting (long) the  
Court; the event may prove much dangerous  
To us all, that wish him well.  Corneli. 
The common people ignorant of their  
Own safety (wedded to change) unanimously begin  
To call Bellicosus King; some crying up his  
Valour, and experience in the wars, some his  
Justice, all his honesty; whose loyal heart appears  
So far from coveting a crown, he seems much  
Troubled at the clamour. And should the King  
His discontent detain him long from Court, 'tis  
Thought the General must accept it, to appease  
The frantic multitude, who rashly may (should he  
Refuse) elect more undeservedly.  Euge. 
His wisdom will foresee, and carefully  
Prevent such dangerous consequences, as one  
Whose approved Loyalty 'twere great injustice to  
Suspect. Saw you Delirus lately? The Court  
Speaks of strange alterations in his looks and carriage.  Corneli. 
I did, and know it speaks no more but  
Truth; for never (to my knowledge) did I  
Behold a more dejected creature. The cause must  
From Artesia spring▪ or none.  Euge. 
'Tis without question so, there's an ambitious  
Spirit lodged within that seeming modesty of hers,  
Hath almost cracked Delirus. How fond doth  
That man enslave his reason, that dotes on pride  
And envy. She strangely hath forborn the Court  
Of late, and may be hatching mischief, were but  
Her envy backed with politic assistance.  
Her pride and scorn apparently was seen, (as  
Wanting government to hid it;) when as the  
King was pleased to throw his favours so  
Liberally on Aurelia.  Corneli. 
On which I much observed, the King  
Great notice took: here comes the General.  Enter Bellicosus. Bellico. 
Gentlemen, for love of virtue, your  
King and countries good, disperse yourselves  
Into the City, where confidently you must give out,  
The King (by letters I received from him) confirms  
His health and safety, and that his strange deserting of  
The Court, was only to perform a penance he  
On himself enjoined (by vow) for some unruly  
Thought his blood provoked him too; which once  
Performed, he will return with speed. This  
The distracted people may (for a time)  
Appease, in which we possible may hear some  
Tidings of the King. And as I well know  
You're honest, I doubt not but with care you  
Will perform this trust, as what (at present)  
Much concerns the common good.  cornel. 
Sir, You honour us in a trust, wherein  
We can express that love, and loyalty, our duty,  
And allegiance binds us to—  Ex. Ambo. Gene. 
How unconsiderably violent doth untamed  
Youth, hurry to its own destruction? The gods  
Can witness bear how innocent I stand (in but a  
Thought to act what other ways (might  
More than to my reason) just appear. My counsel  
In that letter I wrote the King, hath bred  
In him a jealousy Aurelia is by me removed.  
This by the flattery of some fawning slave  
I'th' Court, must be confirmed a truth; and all  
My services in balance put with some base  
Wretch, not worthy name of man; ('tis  
But a small reward, for what the world  
Well knows I justly have deserved.) But  
Bellicosus, now is the time to right thyself, and  
Crown thy actions with the height of honour; when  
As the changeling rout with uncontrolled fury  
Proclaim the King. And must I (when thrown  
Into my arms) refuse to accept what with the  
Slaughter of a seven years' war, could not be purchased.  
It speaks a weakness in myself, I know unfit to  
Govern. But I'll resolve— ne'er to deceive a trust.  
Amasius, live to enjoy what's thine, I will usurp  
In nothing, but thy care.  
'Tis a known truth.  
He's more than man, offends not in his youth—  Exit Enter Ferdinando Sol. 
I must in some disguise venture to Court, where  
Since we parted, the Country speaks of a sad change  
Of things; the King (in every shepherd's mouth)  
Is spoken privately gone from Court, none  
Knows, or will do whither, but questionless in  
Discontent at fair Aurelia's retirement.  
And what we but suspected of his love to her,  
By this we may confirm is real. Some quick  
Prevention must be studied, or it speaks  
Danger to them both. My absence too from  
Hence (till my return from Court) will offer to  
Aurelia the knowledge of the Kings deserting of the  
Court, which fain I would keep her from  
Knowledge of; for how so e'er her virtuous soul,  
Not willing to be thought ambitious of the  
King his love (more than a Loyal subjects duty  
Can deserve) she strangely loves his person,  
Which she in modesty (to her weak power) makes  
It her labour to conceal.  
My labouring fancy is at a stand how to contrive,  
What I would gladly act, the poor Bellira too,  
Left alone unsatisfied laments her Mistress  
Loss, though I deserve not pity, or forgiveness;  
Once more, must undiscovered see her,  
And part unknown. Bellira, I love thee well,  
Yet would be loath to have it found in after  
Story, I broke my faith to satisfy thy love;  
It shall suffice I'm true,  
When known to all, I needs must be to you—  Exit. Enter Goldcalf, Captain, Lieutenant, Ensign, and Snap. As in a Tavern. Gold. 
Drawer.—  Enter Drawer Draw. 
Here Sir,  Gold. 
Draw a pottle of the best sack; Mr.  
Captain (Cousin that must be) What say  
You, is't not so?  Capt. 
It is a grape of power, which were I to  
Encounter Priam's fifty sons, all at one time  
(The quarrel being just) would make the  
Victory doubtful.  Gold. 
O strange! Drawer, let it be sack then,  
But Mr. Captain it will not make you angry  
With your friends, will it?  Capt. 
It operates the contrary effect on friends,  
And doth increase affection, never  
To be divided.  Gold. 
Directly it is wonderful; we'll taste it  
Most horribly then; Mr. Lieutenant,  
Shall we not?  Lieu. 
Noble Colonel we will. Till your  
Fair Mistress at (but relation) of her healths  
We drink; shall stagger and turn round.  Gold. 
Excellent good I protest. Mr. Ensign,  
You are for Sack too?  Ensig. 
Renowned Colonel, since from our  
Mother's wombs, we streched our warlike limbs,  
We scarce have tasted other, Behold  
Our Nectar comes.—  Enter Drawer with wine. Capt. 
Colonel uncase. Cloaks are superfluous weeds,  
The blood shall boil with Sack, and scorn the Robes  
Of shelter. Drawer fill to the brim.  
Here noble Mr. Snap.—  Drawer fills and gives him; Captain drinks. Snap. 
Sir, you shall behold a miracle, I'll do you Justice.  Capt. 
By the life of Bacchus, bring me a more inspiring  
Glass, or Rogue you bleed; must  
We in thimble drink?  Snap. 
Captain, 'Tis well.  Capt. 
Must it be so then, thou man of  
Temperance? we then will sip in little.—  Drawer fills Snap wine. Snap. 
Lieuttenant, your Noble Colonel's Lady,  Lieu. 
My murrion then lies low, while I—  Throws his hat on the ground. 
The goddess pledge.  Gold. 
O admirable rare!  Lieut. 
Thou standard-bearer to the son of Mars.—  Drinks to the Ensign. 
Prepare to pledge his Venus. Sirrah, let measure due be  
Given, fill to the brim.  Ensig. 
Come to me.  Gold. 
But Gentlemen, is it the fashion for all to have  
My Mistress, but myself,  Capt. 
Colonel you are the last must have her.  Gold. 
Why then we shall ne'er be married I think—  Drawer fills to the Ensign Capt. 
Sir, you mistake, I mean the last must have her  
Health in drink. 'Tis a la mode de France.  Gold. 
Say you so? nay I shall learn quickly.  Ensign. 
Lieutenant I thank you, Colonel, to your fair  
Mistress, the incomparable Artesia.  Gold. 
Thank you hearty good Mr. Ensign. Snap.  
These are all brave men?  Snap. 
Sir, you speak them just, they're men will do you  
Credit, (though I confess they're costly) but Artesia's  
Wealth shall pay for it in the end.—  Draw. gives Goldcalf some wine Ensig. 
Sir, 'Tis your Lady's health.  Gold. 
And her money too shall pay for it shortly;  
Shall it not Snap.—  To Snap aside. Snap. 
Marry shall it sir, please you to drink.—  Goldcalfe drinks. Gold. 
Gentlemen, her's to you to all, I'll be sworn  
It is a cup of right, excellent right wine; boy give me—  Drawer fills to Gold. 
T' other cup. Cousin Captain and the rest, her's  
To you all.  Capt. 
Heroic Coz, I thank you. Drawer, some  
Of your Spanish smoke?  Draw. 
You shall sir.—  Exit Drawer. Capt. 
Lieutenant; come, shall the foes bones be twirled.  
Colonel, you'll not stand out for half a dozen glasses?  Gold. 
How mean you Captain?  Capt. 
Art thou a stranger to the twirl of die,  
Behold a brace, made of a Germans bones—  Captain pulls out dice. 
I slew in duel.—  Enter drawer with Tobacco and candle. Gold. 
What is your game?  Capt. 
He that throws lest must drink.  Gold. 
Say you so? a match, come Snap.  
You shall make one.  Capt. 
By any means, come Gentlemen, stand round,  
'Tis all in fashion. Drawer, see you that stakes be made.  
So, so, 'tis well, set down. Come her's for me—  Drawer fills. Lieut. 
A five, a special throw. Colonel, please you  
The die to hurl.  Gold. 
Come hey for me; hay day an ass.—  Goldcalf throws Capt. 
By the bright splendour of Artesia's eyes, 'tis true—  Lieut. throws. 
A four that, come the next Mr. Snap. a six—  Snap. throws. 
Colonel, he out throws you much. A deux—  Ensign throws. 
Colonel you then must chirp, come off with it  
To the next mu'st pledge.  Gold. 
Come, come, give me it, an ass do you say at first? that  
Was ill luck i'faith; her's to the next shall drink.—  Gold. drinks. 
Drawer fill full; come begin I'll be the last this time.  Lieu. 
A trey? throw Mr. Snap. Come, come,  
'Tis half the die.—  Lieu. throws, 
Well done Mr. Snap. A five? he throws exceeding well—  Snap. throws. Capt. 
Ensign, throw you the next.  
Drawer light me a pipe.—  Drawer lights a pipe for the Captain. 
He drinks, he drinks; by Jove a deux—  Ensign throws. 
Come this for me. A six, pox o'th' bone—  Captain throws. 
I shall not drink to day: Here Colonel above—  Goldcalfe throws. 
A deux you scape. Now by the whore of fate an ass again.—  all laugh. Sap. 
The dye runs true, an ass he will remain—  aside. Gold. 
An ass always? besworn a pretty jest—  Snap whispers to the draw. drawer goes out. 
Captain, I feel myself grow valiant  
Another ass will make me draw.  Capt. 
By no means on your friends.  Snap. 
Captain for all your blustering, the other cup—  Lieutenant and Ensign drink to one another in private. 
May make him valiant. And now I do remember  
Some twelve month since, when but a puny lad,  
In such a humour just as this, he shrewdly  
Hurt two fencers,  Capt. 
Which to prevent again, I'll drink  
For him, for know I hate to draw  
Upon my friends.  Snap. 
Or foes if you can help it, if I mistake  
Not much.  Gold. 
Come, come; who throws?—  Enter Drawer. Draw. 
Noble Colonel. there's a young Gentleman  
In the next room, hath stayed this hour for  
Company; who not coming humbly desires  
Admittance into your acquaintance as  
One fame loudly speaks of.  Gold. Snap. 
Shall he come in?  Snap. 
By any means. 'Twere uncivil to deny him,  
Drawer, tell him he shall be welcome.  Draw, 
I shall sir.—  Ex. Draw. Gold. 
Has he a sword Snap? we should  
Have asked him that.  Capt. 
Colonel, what afraid? Were he as  
Stout as Ajax armed with his sevenfold buckler; this  
Steel should (on his knees) force him confess—  Points to his sword. 
Himself your slave,  
By Jove a pretty stripling. Colonel—  Enter Bellira in the habit of a Gentleman. 
Pronounce him welcome.  Gold. 
Sir, you are kindly welcome.  Belli. 
Noble Colonel, (if I mistake not)  
Fame gives you out the man, I humbly thank you.  
And must acknowledge some boldness in my  
Request; which if a fault, pray blame report,—  Lieutenant and Ensign drink to one another. 
The only spur, invited my ambition; you  
Would be pleased to call me your servant.  Gold. 
Sir, I understand you, and can tell  
You, here are Gentlemen (besides myself) have  
Swords which when they please to draw,  
The frighted people tremble.  Belli. 
Gentlemen, I shall be proud to serve you, as  
One would gladly be your valours scholar.  Capt. 
Then know young man, from this time  
Forth thy foes must fear. Drawer, fill  
Me a brimmer of rich Canary.—  Drawer fills. Belli. 
Gentlemen, I hope my rude intrusion, breaks  
Not up the sport (I understood by the Drawer  
You were at) I gladly shall make one, I have some  
Trifling crowns, I'd sport to pass away the time.  Capt. 
To him (i'faith) Colonel.  Gold. 
What sayest thou Snap. Shall I play with him?  Snap. 
By any means, should you refuse, it might  
Breed suspicion, you either wanted money, or that you were  
Exceeding miserable, which might endanger coming  
To Artesia's ear; which must not be.  Gold. 
Excellent well thought on, honest Snap.  
Cousin Captain, pray drink to the Gentleman.  Capt. 
Sir, have at you, to all that honour our Noble Colonel.  Belli. 
Sir, you make me proud to pledge a health, I so  
Much honour. Sir, to the Noble Colonel.—  Drinks to the Lieutenant. Lieu. 
Which to refuse were death, let come.  Gold. 
Noble Colonel. How exceeding perfect, Snap,  
This stranger has it?  Snap. 
'Tis perfect through the City, thank my care.  Gold. 
Honest Snap. right honest Snap. Come sir,  
Shall we to this sport?—  To Bellira. Belli. 
With all my heart sir, her's that will hold  
Some minute's play.—  Pulls out a bag of money. Capt. Lieutenant. 
Would Bess, and Doll. were here,  
To nime the sum, they should have garments fine,  
And strut the streets by day.—  Aside. Lieu. 
The chimney corner then should smoke,  
Without our helps, and double pots stand still; while we the  
Tavern fortify, against the potent Constable.  Gold. 
Come, come; the dice.  Snap. 
Gentlemen, I can furnish you rarely,  
Behold her's choice.—  Snap. pulls out some dice. Gold. 
Sir, what's your game? I am good at nothing but  
At Passage. Drawer make clean the Table.  Belli. 
Sir, I set you this?  Gold. 
Sir, That's too much.  Snap. 
Refuse to throw at none.  Gold. 
Sayest thou me so, honest Snap? Then here's at all—  Throws. Belli. 
You than must pay me this.  Capt. 
Courage Colonel, 'twill come again.  Gold. 
Hang it dirt, I care not a pin,  Belli. 
Come Sir, set me deep.—  Throws. 
That's mine, come again.  Gold. 
Snap; You must fetch me more money—  Aside. Snap. 
Sir, You must not want here, one good  
Hand brings all again; if there be not money enough,  
What think you of two or three Manors,  
I'll bring the deeds.  Gold. 
Do Snap, make haste honest Snap.  Snap. 
I shall return with speed.—  Exit. Snap. Gold. 
Come, I set you this.  Capt. 
Courage Noble Colonel, the next pull's ours.  Belli. 
'Tis all my own.  Gold. 
I'll swear he has the best fortune I ever saw,  Capt. 
Come cheer up, give him a brimmer;  
Colonel you are a cup to low to win: Sir, you  
Have admirable throwing.  Belli. 
Sir, 'tis by chance, I seldom part a winner—  Drawer giveth Gold wine, he drinks Gold. 
Here Cousin,— 'Tis excellent wine I feel it  
In my head. Here drawer, fill my valiant Cozen.  
Sir, Snap my man will come with more money Presently.  Capt. 
Cousin if this shit-breech wins, this steel—  Points to his sword. 
Redeems it all again, what e'er it be.  Gold. 
That will be rare i'faith—  Enter Snap. 
Come Snap, here Sir, this bag I set you—  Gold takes a bag. Belli. 
At all, were it a million—  Throws. 
'Tis all mine  Snap. 
Sir, this is the last bag; but here are Deeds.  Gold. 
Come Sir, her's t' other bag.—  Sets t' other bag. Belli. 
This for it all.—  Throws. 
'Tis mine.  Gold. 
Snap, did you ever see the like?  Snap. 
After so often winning he needs must lose;  
Set him five hundred pounds a year.  Gold. 
A match. Come Sir, you have all the money;  
Here are deeds of five hundred a year;  
Will you pay as much if you lose?  Belli. 
Come Sir, I'll not be outbraved.  
Set them, and and if they prove so much, or more,  
Or less, accordingly, I'll pay, it.  Gold. 
A match.  Belli. 
Then lusty dice at all—  Throws. 
They're mine.—  Takes up the Deeds. Capt. 
Mushroom, deliver all you have put up, back to  
The Colonel, or you eternally shall sleep.—  Captain draws. Belli. 
How's that? return again what I have won,  
Deliver that again so saucily, and slave you die.  
You slaves.—  Captain comes fierce up to Belli, Belli draws, they all run off the stage, he following. 
I'll try your manhood, my coin is easily made  
Good, without my brother's help: what things  
In shape of men did here appear.  
It will be wondered at, but more when known;  
By what a handsome shift we got our own—  Exit.   

ACT. IU.  

SCENE I.  Enter King Sol. Disguised in the habit of an Aged Pilgrim. King, 
AS yet my pilgrim weed, hath been my safe protection.  
Surely the Court is mercifully, sparing in their  
Search of me; I hear no hue and cry sent after me.  
(Though I have read t'has been a course, some  
Saucy subjects have presumed to take in search of  
Their lost King.) My tender feet have faithfully  
Performed their promised penance, in hope  
To appease the angry gods, for the by paths they  
Have trod, and must have present ease.—  Lies down 
For heaven knows, they are unable to support me  
Longer. Poor Aurelia, were't thou but living now  
(The sad remainder of all the comfort left me)  
Thy tender heart would (pitifully) say I loved,  
But that poor little hope I have, waits on despair.  
Death would be welcome now, but deaths a  
Tyrant to those that covet him, and only  
Loves to pray upon the world's idolaters.  
Who vainly clambering in't to catch at all,  
By death receive an everlasting fall.  
Content is sure the Landlord of this happy place,  
Who lets out parcels to his Nymphs and swains,  
As harmless as the flocks they tend.  
Here on a hillock sits a shepherd swain (free in  
His choice to love) only with nature's help,  
Composing what his unenvied wit brings forth  
To court his mistress with, while she seemingly  
Bashful smiles, to hear herself so courted.  
Near whom a merry swain, with his oaten  
Reed, defies the bagpipe, and proclaims a  
Challenge to all the valley, which when received, the  
Pretty discord in variety, begets a joy in (the then)  
Feeding flocks, who skip to hear the melody,  
Their safe protectors make. A universal silence  
Crowns this happy place; and I must sleep in jest,  
That fain would do't in earnest. Bad world, I  
Can forgive you all, O my poor unfortunate Aurelia.—  Steeped. Aurelia undiscovered, sings hard by him. 

A Song.  

YOu God of love, whose aid I crave,  
Look down and pity me;  
A harmless maid, from ruin save  
Lies wounded here by thee.  
Heaven knows my unaspiring heart,  
Ambitiously ne'er aimed  
'Twas you great god) chose out the dart,  
So Nobly me inflamed.   

Then since (loves god) the power is yours,  
'Twere just to let him know;  
How much a simple maid endures  
That dares no love to show.  
'Twere then but just, to ease my pain,  
And grant me my desire;  
That he as I, may burn again  
Or quite put out my fire.    Enter Aurelia. Aureli. 
Thus to the unpitying air, I vent my  
Sad complaints, who more a tyrant then a  
Comforter, in my own tone of woe, returns  
My words of sorrow; (poor satisfaction to a maid—  Meaning the Echo. 
In love.) Aurelia, how hast thou lost thy Loyalty,  
Who most unworthily hast disobeyed the  
King his last commands? Did he not charge thee  
Not to harbour within thy breast that traitor  
To thy quiet melancholy, as one (he by experience  
Knew) if not with care prevented, would seek thy  
Ruin; yet thou like an ungrateful wretch,  
Hast entertained the Traitor. I want a confidence  
To see his face, that could refuse his counsel, (I  
Undertaken to follow in my silence.) Would  
Ferdinando but return from Court, my doubtful  
Thoughts would find more settled reft, Pray  
Heavens all be well, for my disquiet sleep●  
(I fear) presage no good O you preservers of  
The innocent, protect the virtuous King; who  
Had he been a subject. (I blush to speak the rest)  
I might perhaps have lived to have enjoyed,  
What now were a presumptuous sin but for to hope;  
Yet heaven can quit me, 'tis not to enjoy his  
Honour as he is King, but as he is man  
His virtue. Defend me, you just powers; how  
Have I betrayed—  She starts at spying him. 
My innocent thoughts? I hope he sleeps; his age  
And habit speaks no danger in him. 'Tis surely  
Some religious man, wearied by long travel,  
In the performance of some holy Rites, hath laid  
Him here to rest.  
He does begin to stir; did not my modesty  
Forbidden, I would observe him further, her's none so  
Near to see me, if I should venture?  
Which I'll for once attempt.—  Steps aside. King wakes and stretches. King. 
Where am I? such joys I have received in sleep;  
I am afraid to know I am awake: for I am from a  
Short sleeping height of happiness, thrown headlong to  
A lingering sorrow. Sure 'tis some heavenly place?  
Me thought I heard the music of the sphear's charming  
My troubled senses into happiness, I dare not think of waking.  
I should (to the just gods) appear unthankful,  
Should I repay this blessing I enjoyed (although but  
In a dream) with base despair; heaven knows (what  
Ever I deserve) what's yet in store laid up. I am unjust to  
Nature and myself, by want of food to punish that  
Life I should preserve. I'll to some honest Cottage near  
To find relief; Heaven knows I cannot  
Travel far.—  The King wearily riseth, Aurelia goes towards him. Aureli. 
there's something in this holy man, speaks  
Much of sorrow, Me thinks we might be partners  
In our griefs, durst we but make them known:  
I was but late myself a stranger here,  
And should uncharitable be, not to acquaint  
Him, where there is relief.  King. 
Sure I am in Paradise, and this  
Some goddess is—  The King spies Aurelia. 
For since my eyes left to behold the  
Fairest of that sex, I ne'er behold so excellent  
A form. There must be pity in that Angel shape.  
Fair Nymph, assist a wearied wand'ring Pilgrim  
In your directions to some place of succour.  
But if thou art the goddess of this heavenly place,  
Forgive the doting error my age pleads pardon  
For, and I shall pay (when known) the due  
Performance of your holy Rites.  Aureli. 
Thou holy man, (such you appear to me)  
And truly I believe, I am no goddess I, but an  
Unfortunate poor shepherdess; too much acquainted with  
The afflictions, of this too bad world, who glad  
To show, (in what I may) respect to reverend age; will  
Carefully conduct you to a house near hand, myself  
Is but a stranger to, yet dare presume what it affords,  
You shall be kindly welcome to.  King. 
Sure I still dream, and did but think I waked  
That voice, that face; and all doth so agree,  
My easy faith would fain believe 'twere she.  
Or else her Ghost assumes this shape; to let me know  
Her murderers; 'Tis so 'tis so, fair innocent  
Thou shalt have justice, let me but know the authors of  
Our woe. But whether doth my passion lead me?  
Fair Nymph, let me but know thy name,  
And whence thou art?  Aureli. 
Father I am ashamed I have  
Presumptuously disturbed your quiet; which was  
A fault of ignorance, I hearty can be sorry  
For. Can you forgive it?  King. 
Pardon thou excellent creature; that I  
Have called thy blood out of thy cheeks, with my unruly  
Passion; the sad remembrance (your fair form presented  
To my aged eyes) put me in mind of a lost child  
I had, so like yourself; I durst almost have challenged  
You for her. But my Aurelia's dead.—  Aurelia starts. 
Why starts she at that name? 'Tis she. 'tis she.  
You gods let me not surfeit with excess, but by degrees  
Receive my thankful joy.—  Throws down his staff and runs to her; takes her by the hand. 
This fair white hand is flesh and blood?  
And this Aurelia, Living Aurelia? I am made for ever;  
This happy hour will gain me more than all my  
Labouring life could ever purchase.  Aureli. 
You cannot blame me sir, to start at such  
Unusual passions in an aged man, which would they give  
You leave, I gladly should embrace the knowledge of  
What (as yet) I am a stranger to.  King. 
Madam, Then know, I am a man (how e'er with  
Age I do appear unable) hath been employed  
In search of your fair self.  
For though my low condition in the Court, deserve  
No knowledge from your honoured self; know it  
Hath been my place of bode, before your honoured  
Father (the lord Sebastian) e'er could call you  
Daughter. Dear Madam? let—  She starts 
Not my honest meaning truths affright you more, but  
Understand I am employed in search of you,  
By none but by your King.  Aureli. 
Away, you're an Impostor, or some unhappy  
Man, (with too much care) bereft of Reason.  
It was my charity to your assistance, and not  
My custom, made me thus fond inquisitive  
Of your condition, which I have found myself  
As much mistaken in, as you appear in mine;  
For know I am a poor shepherd's daughter, not  
Far from hence, that daily tends my flock  
Which I have so long neglected, I fear I shall  
Be shent: So heaven preserve you.—  Offers to be gone, he pulls her back. King. 
Lady, pray know I cannot so mistake, but  
Since it is your will to have it so, I have no  
Commission to force you to confession, yet I  
Would gladly know whether the letters to your  
Fair self (I have with many a weary careful step)  
Brought you from the King will be accepted,  
If not, it is my duty to return them, and only greet  
Him with the glad tidings of our health and safety—  Offers to be gone. Aureli. 
Pray stay; but have you letters from  
The King? and are you secretly (by him) employed?  
Pray let me see them.  King. 
If you be that Aurelia they are directed.  
To, I have.  Aureli. 
Come, you will be secret. I am the  
Same, pray let me see them; I hope the King  
Enjoys his health.  King 
Never better Madam—  The King puts one hand in his pocket as for letters, & with the other takes off his false beard 
Know you this superscription?  Aureli. 
My Lord the King.—  Falls on her knees, and swoons away. King 
Her colour's gone; she faints, Angels  
Above, assist me; Aurelia look up, speak, or thy  
King ne'er more shall utter word. She breathes;  
How doth my joy, my bliss, my all delight on earth!  
One word of comfort, speak.  Aureli. 
How fares it with the King? I am pretty  
Well thanks heaven, and your assistance,  King 
Why that's well said; rise my Aurelia,  
And let this kiss confirm our never to be divided loves,  
I now could surfeit here with joy, did reason not  
Command forbear. O let this happy day be to all  
After ages kept as a day of joy, which I (while  
The just gods shall lend me breath on earth)  
With care will see performed, in memory of that  
Happiness, this hour confirmed Thee living.  
But my Aurelia, it was unkindly done (unknown  
To any) to desert the Court, and take this borrowed  
Shape, leaving me desperately unsatisfied of thy life  
Or death; it was a punishment (Aurelia) I could  
Not well collect, I had deserved from thee.  Aureli. 
My much loved Lord, that virtue shines  
Within your noble breast, will hardly give  
You leave to credit; the plot was laid to take  
Away this harmless life: which to preserve (only  
With the assistance of faithful Ferdinando)  
We privately got hither as to a place of refuge,  
Where with the change of habit we meant to spend  
Some days, in the contrivance of our future safety.  King. 
Aurelia Thou dost amaze me with a story,  
Of that unheard of cruelty, had any tongue but  
Thine related, I could (as soon) with the same faith  
Have credited, what man's invention could proclaim  
Impossible. Sure the● have no Christian names,  
Or if they have, let me but know the fiends, and as  
I am thy King I'll see thee righted.  Aureli. 
My Lord, I freely can forgive them,  
They may repent, and in their after life deserve your  
Pardon. Please you my Lord to put on your  
Disguise, we else may be (by some unwelcome guest)  
Discovered; And (as to my poor present home)  
We walk, I shall in duty to your commands discover all.  King 
'Twas carefully remembered; the joy I  
Have received in the blessed encounter of m● fair  
Aurelia, made me forget I was to all the world  
(But thee) a counterfeit.  
This kiss; now lead the way,  
Where virtue is my guide I cannot stray—  Ex. Ambo. Enter Antonio. In a riding habit, a switch in his hand. Anto. 
Where should this King be, I have  
Endeavoured pretty well to find him out, with  
What diligent search my wit, and labour could  
Contrive, yet all in vain I seek. From the city, to  
The small cottage, hills, and dales, woods and  
Plains, yet no ridings; not a stripling of eighteen  
I see, but I from top to toe examine. Had but some  
That I know the large commission I have there's  
Not a handsome gentlewoman in the country  
(Without a protection from the General) should  
Go unsearched, 'Twere well if they scap't too.  
Indeed I am too modest for the employment, which  
Was a fault the General might possibly have  
Thought me not guilty of, considering I was bred  
I'th' Court. But if I persist in't, I shall be able  
To give but a very slender account of my travels.  
It being now in fashion for Princes to make escapes in  
Woman's habit; but I must mend my fault, and  
Stretch my modesty.  
But who comes here—  Enter Amint. Amint. 
Save you Courteous Gentleman, pray saw  
You a fair young she pheardess straggling here  
About, I fear hath lost her way.  Anto. 
You speak as if she were a stranger to the  
Place, dwells she far hence?  Amint. 
But here at hand▪  Anto. 
What danger is there then, that she can  
Straggle here if dwell so near.  Amint. 
Although she dwell so near,  
She is a stranger here.  Anto. 
Prithee courteous shepherd, let me but understand thee  
And I perhaps may tell some tidings of her.  Amint. 
Then know, she's but lately come amongst us,  
For we (as yet) not know her name, nor whence she came;  
But sure she is as courteous a Nymph, and fair,  
As ever sung to pipe.  Anto. 
What years dost think she is of?  Amint. 
She looks some seventeen,  
Or much about.  Anto. 
Shepherd, (may I a stranger to  
This place my Beast being tired request you help  
Me to some refreshment for my horse, and me;  
For which in part of payment, take this  
Gold; with it, my hearty thanks.  Amint. 
Excuse me Sir, the poor entertainment  
Our Cottage will afford, cannot deserve this pay;  
I wish we had it for you.  Anto. 
Shepherd, I ever made content my  
Feast; which I am sure to find,  
In what you have.  Amint. 
Thank you Noble Sir, since you will  
Have it so; please you to stay till I but search the  
Next Copse for a stray Lamb, I will  
Return with speed,—  Ex. Shepherd. Anto. 
Shepherd. I shall attend; I do not  
Know, more than a simple hope, grounded  
On strong desire it should be so:  
But I am on the sudden strangely overjoyed, with  
Confidence of a discovery of something.  
A young shepherdess (did he not say?) of  
Some seventeen years of age, I and a stranger too;  
One that as yet, he neither knows her name, nor  
Whence she is. Well my young King, if I  
Do chance to find you in the smock habit, I  
May hap to make you look re di'th cheeks,  
Without the help of Spanish paper.  
You gods, I'll pray my beads o'er twice a day  
The more, should this stray shepherdess  
But prove my King. And all you powers, bear witness  
With me, 'tis not for honour, or reward, I covet thus to  
Find him, as that I fear, some more unwelcome to  
Him, may do it to his more prejudice. But her's my  
Shepherd come. Shepherd shall we go,  Amint. 
Sir, I now will wait on you; this is  
Your way to your horse.  Anto. 
Thanks honest shepherd, the joy I apprehend,  
Made me forget I had any—  Ex. Am. Enter Cornelius Eugenio. Eugen. 
I hope the rout's now pleased they have a King,  
Yet some cried out for none (the devil stop their wind-pipes)  
The General appeared much backward, in the judgement  
of the standers by, to accept the Government; yet Crowns  
Are things, seldom unwelcome come,  
How e'er with care maintained.  Cornel. 
Eugenio, be confident, the General nothing acted  
Outwardly in show, but what his loyal heart provoked him too,  
Nor could he with the safety of the Kingdom (as things  
Then stood) refuse to accept the Crowa;  
For that besides the present danger might have ensued  
By the domestic rabble, had he refused.  
His known acceptance of it now▪ strikes terror in  
The Foreign Enemy, as under whose victorious  
Arm, they have long groaned.  Eugen. 
Cornelius, I am satisfied, and hope (as you)  
The best, but where the King Amasinus (if alive)  
Should live so long recluse, to my poor sense.  
Appears miraculous; the gods protect him, and prevent,  
What we have just cause to fear.  Cornel. 
He is hardly honest, joins not in that prayer.  Eugen. 
Amasius, Till I here thy death confirmed, (which  
Heavens forbidden) I never shall acknowledge other King but  
Thee, and cursed be he that does.  Cornel. 
Prithee forbear, I think I hear him coming.  Enter Bellicosus, Sebastian, Fabius, and attendance. Bellicos. 
My lord Sebastian, what e'er I'm forced (to my best  
Care for all your goods I hope) to take upon me, This is—  Sebastian stands bare. 
A ceremony, from you, I neither will expect nor suffer,  
Pray my lord put on; it is your grave assistance  
In this great charge I have undertaken; not what in duty  
Doth become a Subject to his King, that I expect from you.  
And I am glad (my lord) to see these overacted passions,  
So well blown o'er, that did so ill become your gravity.  
We men that know the world, if thankfully would  
Receive a blessing; must patiently endure a Cross.  Sebast. 
But mine is great (my lord.)  Bellicos. 
'Tis truth; therefore your patience in't appears  
The more commendable; for know, there's not a Loyal heart  
Amongst us all, but hath received a loss, a great one too.  
Though I must confess yours comes with advantage;  
But let us not despair; The gods are just and merciful,  
And when we least expect, may bring us joy.  
Cornelius, what no news yet from Antonio, in his  
Search o'th' King? he is a man I put much  
Confidence in his Noble care.  Corneli. 
My gracious lord, I dare (with reverence to yourself)  
Presume there's not that thing alive, that owns the name  
Of man, would more rejoice, to bring you happy  
Tidings than himself; nor make a more laborious  
Search in what he hath undertaken.  Bellicos. 
It is believed Cornclius. and you mistake my  
Meaning much, if you but think I spoke as doubting,  
In the performance of that trust he did with joy embrace,  
I know he's honest, as you can think him. Gentlemen,  
I fain would urge a question to you all, which could  
You satisfy, 'twould be a favour I ever should acknowledge.  Corneli. 
My Lord, please you propound, (my honour  
Stand engaged) in what I may, I'll satisfy.  Bellico. 
Thank you Cornelius, the question's then,  
What you conceive may be the cause, my son  
Delirus so dejects himself.  Corneli. 
Then here my Lord, I take off my engagement;  
I think it doth proceed from fair Artesia's scorn,  
Whom he unfortunately, yet entirely loves.  Eugenio. 
My Lord, he speaks my thoughts.  Sebast. 
And mine.  Bellico. 
Gentlemen, I thank you all, and shall as  
Carefully (in what I may) acknowledge this great favour.  
Fond Boy, how hast thou lost thyself? I fear passed all  
Recovery. Proud scornful woman; yet why do I  
Blame her, when she stands bound as she expects  
Her future bliss, to make her free election. Yet how he should  
Deserve her scorn, I understand not: the blood that fills his veins  
Speaks him as nobly born as she, stand was as well deserving. Things of  
This nature must be gently curbed, and by degrees, with  
Moderate persuasion weaned from.  
He that with violence, seeks to restrain loves fire,  
Instead of quenching, makes it flame the higher.  
My Lord, and Gentlemen, your good advice in matters that much  
Concern the common good, requires your present aid.  Corneli. 
We ever shall obey, in what you please command.—  Ex. Om. Enter Artesia. Sol. Artesi. 
The King not to be found? He doted strangely so to leave the  
Court, needs to be heard of more. Upon a beggar too, a thing not worth  
His Royal thought: and whether dead, or living, it matters not,  
The multitude with noise hath made their General King:  
And since 'tis so, Delirus aught to be considered of, as now the  
Best in being— it must be so;  
A few good words will reconcile the man.—  She calls. 
Within there, Dreswell?—  Enter Dreswell. Dres: 
Madam here,  Artesi. 
Haste to the Court, there to Delirus Lodgings, and if by  
Any means thou canst procure admittance to him, pretend you come as  
Of your own accord, in pity of your Lady's sufferings, who ever  
Since she heard of his melancholy retirement, hath kept her chamber,  
And denied access to all comers of what quality soever, nor will  
She eat, or drink, or sleep, (as is conceived) till she hath seen him.  
All this you must do in so melancholy a posture,  
He shall not doubt a syllable you utter,  
(And if thou canst deliver it in tears, it will do better.)  
This done, strictly examine all his gestures, and every word and sigh,  
So exactly, that you may be able to give me a just account how he  
Stands moved with your relation, that thereby I may accordingly  
Prepare myself for his encounter. Is my Coach ready?  Dres. 
Madam it is.  Artesi. 
Then I'll abroad, but will return by that time I  
Conceive thou canst be here again. Be careful in't.  Farewell— Exit Artesia— Dreswel looks back. Dres. 
Well go thy ways, thou woman, indeed thou art the very  
Master piece of all thy sex for cunning. I thought I could have  
Done pretty well; but I am a very puny, and but begin to learn  
The art of dissembling. Delirus, you shall be happy; My Lady  
Does love you, but 'tis because the mad-folks of the Town  
Have made your father King. Who should they but depose, as  
They are like enough, (it being now in fashion) my Lady  
Then must sue out a Divorce, and marry the next heir  
Apparent to the Crown.  
Now shall I have this melancholy Coxcomb (who she hath  
Sufficiently abused) believe me; for I shall do it rarely. I serve  
So exquisite a Lady in the trade; I cannot choose but move  
Compassion. 'Twere rare durst I but laugh, to see him sit cross  
Armed, and sigh out (in some pitiful tone) his folly, which I  
Must charitably call his repentance, which he, (in hope I will be  
Merciful to him) and call it so to my Lady, gives me five pieces,  
Which I must seemingly refuse, yet hold it fast. What necessary  
Commodities to our Ladies are we waiting-women; and faith  
Should not grudge at any thing we do, if they would but in (some  
Reasonable measure) consider us. We must not kiss (forsooth)  
The gentleman-usher, not for a hundred pound that's not to  
Be forgiven; they are very tyrants to us in that particular,  
And covet all. I had but some small hopes of Ferdinando, the  
Lord Sebastian's man, and indeed to say truth, the fellow was of  
A pretty able make, and promised well. And he they have shuffled  
Out of the way; all is too good for us poor souls, but we  
May find a time to fit them for it: But to  
My business now in hand.—  Exit. Enter King, disguised as before, Aurelia, Antonio. King. 
Aurelia, thou hast filled me with amazement, in the  
Relating of such a piece of villainy, the fiends of hell, would surely  
Tremble at to see perfor'md. Put on thy hat Antonio, this is no  Stands bare. 
Time nor place to show respect to persons. O Aurelia, how are we  
Bound to the just gods, for thy miraculous protection, and sure  
Those gods have blessings yet in store for thee, that have so safely kept thee.  
Faithful Ferdinando, I yet may find a time to pay thee for thy  
Loyalty. Antonio, thou lately cam'st from Court, and  
Can advise us for the best; delays do oft prove dangerous,  
What woul'dst thou have us do?  Anto. 
Since you are pleased to think my poor advice  
Worthy the following; I humbly should request you not  
Conclude on any thing, till Ferdinando be returned, who  
Madam (if I mistook not) you hourly here expect.  Aureli. 
I do Antonio, and wonder at his stay.  
Pray heaven all be well.  King. 
Antonio, I like your counsel well, and will be ruled, how took  
The General our strange departure from the Court—  Enter Ferdinando Aureli. 
Ferdinando is returned, Ferdinando welcome.  Ferdinando starts to see Antonio. 
Nay be not frighted, her's none but are your friends.  Ferdi. 
Noble Antonio, I know not whether my joy; or wonder  
To see you in this place, is greater, but both speak much.  Anto. 
Thanks good Ferdin ando, thou living miracle of honesty,  
Pray take acquaintance of this aged man, as one we all stand bound to,  
Which you (at more convenient time) shall understand.  Ferdinand. 
Heaven still increase your age, and happy days.  King. 
Thank thee my good son, and mayest thou live  
Long to be wondered at for thy fidelity.  Aureli. 
What news from Court, I hope my  
Father doth enjoy his health?  Ferdinand. 
Madam, he does.  Anto. 
Ferdinando, thy looks speak no good tidings  
No news yet of our King?  Ferd. 
Madam, I expected that enquiry to have been made by you.  Aureli. 
Indeed 'twas coming out, had not Antonio  
Prevented me, I hope he's well.  Ferd. 
That hope is all we have left; for hitherto their search hath  
Been in vain. Madam, I much mistake (if since my late departure,)  
Your looks speak not much more of cheerfulness, then  
When I left you. And I am sorry I have not news for to deliver,  
Would fetch more of that blood into your cheeks, hath  
Been so long a stranger to its home.  Anto. 
Thou speakest a Prologue to a Tragedy, prithee be brief.  
We stand resolved to hear, the utmost can befall us.  Ferd. 
Then thus it is. The King (as yet not heard of) the factious  
People, (mutable by nature) generally rise; some crying out Bellicosus  
Should be King; others would have no King; but most of all,  
Would have they knew not what. Thus in the streets  
Tumultuously they swarm, who Bellicosus (for some small time to  
Appease) in hopes to hear o'th' King, pretends receiving Letters  
From him; wherein he certifies his health, and that the reason of his  
Stealth from Court, was to perform a penance he on himself enjoined by  
Vow, for some unruly thoughts his blood provoked him to, and  
Would return with speed. This by the eminent'st men it'h Court  
Delivered as a truth amongst the Rout, did for a time appease; but  
Long it lasted not; for being shortly after, throughly whet with wine,  
They all broke out; crying aloud Bellicosus should be King.  
At which the General under pretence of what might have fallen  
Out more prejudicial to the Commonwealth, accepts it for prevention;  
And since makes strong apologies in his own defence.  
But may they all be swallowed up alive, that own him for their  
King, long as Amasius lives, or we confirmed,  
(Which heavens forbidden) he is dead.  King. 
Let this confirm thee, Amasius is alive—  King pulls of his disguise. 
Alive to thank thee for thy Loyalty.  Ferd. 
Which life, long may the gods preserve—  Ferdinando kneles. 
With health and joy.—  Riseth, Anto. 
Ferdinando, leave off to wonder at this happiness, it is  
No time to talk but do. Sir, the long experience of the General's  
Loyalty and faithful service to your crown, may justly arm  
You with a confidence, he dares not act the Traitor.  King. 
But Antonio, what think you of the intended murder of  
This fair Virgin; there was a fault Antonio, a great one too,  
One that the gods command should not be smothered.  Anto. 
So please your Highness. if you but think the General  
Guilty but of a thought, (of what I know his very soul abhors)  
I soon could clear that doubt.  King. 
Till when, I shall conclude him not Aurelia's friend,  
Though he may take my Crown, and yet ne'er injure me.  Anto. 
Then on my knees, I beg this favour (for your satisfaction,—  Antonio knelt▪ 
That you vouchsafe me leave to go to Court, where speedily  
I will contrive a way to clear your doubts, in what  
You can desire to know.  King. 
Rise Antonio, 'Tis granted on those conditions, and how  
In the mean time (for the advantage of your undertake)  
We shall dispose ourselves, consider; and 'tis done.  Anto. 
Virtuous Sir, it is a trust, my life could ne'er deserve, which  
I'll perform or lose it in the attempt. Madam please you to let  
Your faithful servant show me to the road I am a stranger to,  
I shall (to him) impart what's best for you to do, suiting  
With my designs. So heavens shower down his blessings on you both  King. 
And speed thee in thy honest undertake.  Aureli. 
Ferdinando, conduct Antonio, as he shall desire.  King. 
Come my Aurelia, our poor hom's the best,  
Although no Palace, there's more quiet rest—  Ex. Amb.   

ACT. V.  

SCENE I.  Enter Snap, Captain, both Drawn, a fight, the Captain Forcing Snap backward on the Stage. Snap. 
CAptain, hold, hold, I say; thou now deserv'st that Title;  
Come let us put up, you shall have your desire.  
But know it is not out of fear I do it; fear being a thing I never  
Understood. But 'tis thy valour that hath won my love,  
Which shall continue, long as you dare thus valiantly make good  
Your honour, which I (in pity to yourself)  
Much fear is not long lived.  Capt. 
Then welcome death, who in the horrid'st shape he  
Can put on, shall ever make this flesh of mine (but now redeemed  
From the base brand of coward) e'er tremble to behold him.  
Sir, be not too incredulous nor wonder-struck; that I  
Can speak a truth; which to my shame (I must confess)  
I have but seldom uttered. Forknow the baseness  
Of my former actions, hath waked my better judgement  
To a repentance of my sinful folly; nor is there in these veins  
One drop of blood but came from noble springs. And if this  
Small sprinkling of my redemption can nothing gain on your belief,  
But name an undertaking honourable, that may confirm  
Me to the world I am a man, and I'll attempt it, or  
With the loss of life leave ample satisfaction,  
I died no coward.  Snap. 
I do embrace thy friendship, and believe thee—  Embraces him. 
Hearty believe thee, as one that joys in thy recovery,  
And what (before) I could not think thee worthy of; now doth  
Appear unworthy thy acceptance. But for the present  
Here take this bag, with it the assurance, of—  Gives him a bag. 
My assistance in what I shall be able. And what so e'er you  
Have done for me, (how ever to your judgement it appears) yet  
Know, it was but honest, and but a sleight to get my own;  
Long since by Goldcalf's fathers unjust dealing  
Detained from me.  Capt. 
Sir, it is believed, and for your money (my want compels  
Me to accept of) I thank you, as what I not deserve, but  
What your Nobleness (in pity of my present state) is pleased  
Bestow on me. And that you shall see your money well  
Employed, I'll to the army, where my actions shall speak me  
Willing to redeem my misspent youth, or  
Find a Noble death.  Snap. 
May victory and reward, crown all your  
Undertake. So farewell.—  Exit Snap. Capt. 
Succeess attend your wishes to your desires, while I  
Practise to live, that I shall dare to d●e,—  Exit. Enter Bellicosus, Delirus. Bellicos. 
Delirus, however I have passed by the enquiry of  
Your discontent, yet know I have a father's eye, that sees your  
Wound that bleeds, and know it must be searched well, ere it can  
Be cured; therefore I charge you on my blessing (as  
You expect that I should prove your faithful Chirurgeon) prove  
You a dutiful patient, in plainly laying open to me  
The cause of this your present grief.  Delir. 
Sir your Commands are too powerful for me to  
Disobey. And what of Discontent you have lately  
Seen in me, sprung from Artesia's scorn  
On my impatient love.  Bellicos. 
Me thinks thou shouldst consider, whose son thou art  
A Soldier too, and have thy reason captived  
By the imperious pride of a vainglorious woman. For shame  
Collect thy scattered senses; (and if not out of pity to thy  
Self) yet in respect of my commands (which here I lay upon  
Thee) return her scorn again. And then she'll sue to thee.  
Fond Boy, thou dost not know the subtle trains of women,  
Whose wavering minds prove labyrinths to the most ingenious  
Searchers, canst thou yet love, and she yet scorn?  Deli. 
My Royal Father, in all obedience to your Demands  
I thus must answer; and call the gods to witness with me,  
I hate her actions more than I e'er loved her person;  
Which now with scorn, I both disdain.  Belli. 
That's spoken like thyself. What news with thee?—  Enter Fabins. Fabi. 
My gracious Lord; There is; a traveller (a stranger he seems)  
Desires to be admitted to your presence; who (as he  
Doth pretend) hath business of much concernment to deliver.  Belli. 
Admit him in. Welcome friend, wouldst—  Enter Anto. his coat changed, a false beard. 
Thou ought with us?  Anto. 
Yes, my good Lord, I have something to impart that  
Much concerns your knowledge.  Deli. 
I do not like this fellow's looks, what should his  
Business be. Sir, your business may require privacy,  
I'll wait within your call.—  Deli. offers to go off, Anto. stays him, Anto. 
Pray stay sir, my gracious Lord, such is the nature  
Of my business, I shall not only crave this Gentleman may  
Hear the delivery of it, but also such of your Royal  
Council as are near at hand.  Belli. 
Fabius, call those that wait without—  Fabius goes to the hang calls them. Ent. Corneli. Eugenio. 
Now when you please begin.  Anto. 
Then (by your gracious favour) it sadly thus fell out.  
'Twas, when the harbinger of light, had given notice  
To the late darkened world, that the bright Sun was darting  
Forth his radiant beams upon the teeming earth, when near  
To the black Cliff (a place well known to all) and fit  
So black a purpose; upon the top of which, a man (I thought  
I spied, (but proved a monster) near whom, after a  
Stricter view, I could discern something to move, (but  
Knew not what it was. Towards it I gently made, willing  
To see, unseen: when by the help o'th' craggy Cliff I soon  
Had got within the hearing of a voice (in such a Tone of woe  
Sadly lamenting) the neighbouring rocks in tears did seem  
To melt, to hear the moan it made. Pity, and curiosity,  
To know what it might be, joined to contrive, how  
I might make my approach so near, to satisfy my doubts  
Remaining undiscovered, when envious nature conspiring  
The ruin of what she should preserve, by a small creek  
O'th' Sea divided us. Yet at so small a distance, I could  
Discover a maid (for such she seemed to be) upon her knees.  
With hands held up for mercy to her murderer. Who  
Less relenting than the hardened Rocks, proclaimed himself an  
Enemy to pity. And with a voice befitting such a bloody  
Mind, demanded if she were prepared to die.  
(As if he meant, for to preserve in her, what in himself i'th'  
Very act he must destroy.) To which she answered something,  
So faintly dying not to be understood, when straight I could  
Perceive the slave prepare (into the Sea) to cast the innocent  
Fair one, whom he before had drowned in tears.  
This sight, I tremblingly beheld, cursing the water that divided  
Us. Yet hoping to prevent his bloody execution, a loud  
I called, as confident in the consideration of his own present  
Safety, being discovered, I happily might save her life:  
But all in vain; for what with threats, fair promises, and tears  
I could prevail, was only to behold her fall into the sea.  
At which unheard of piece of cruelty, the Sun not daring to  
Behold so foul a murder, withdrew his waterish beams  
(Made pale with fear) behind the burdened clouds, who big  
With Tears, in thousand spouts did trickle to the earth,  
There witnesses of sorrow.  
The Villain, his black deed done, question's the justness  
Of the Gods, in hopes he should escape: which to prevent  
I nimbly down descended, fetching a compass to the place my  
Reason prompt me to believe he must attempt to make his  
Flight, where (by the Justness of those Gods he so mistake)  
We met. I drew and bid him stand; at which the daring  
Slave grinned in my face, and with a confidence, as if his  
Cause were just, draws in defiance of my single opposition.  
To blows, and thrusts we went, when guided by the hand  
Of Justice, my sword soon found a passage to his death.  
When he (afraid to die) when death appeared so near,  
Tremblingly for mercy begged, in hope he might have lived.  
On which I took advantage, and with the promise of  
My assistance in his cure, and silence for the fact he had  
Committed, he to my joy (in his behalf) discovered, not  
Only who it was he had murdered, but also who had hired  
Him to that accursed deed of darkness; which when at  
Full delivered (to my amazed wonder) I fell to earth, as if  
I had received the greater wound. Only I risen again, which  
He did never; for just (as if the Gods had lent him breath  
Enough for his confession,) he left the world.  
My Lord, I have not yet quite finished,—  Deli. offers to go out. 
And shall desire all that are present, may hear my story out.  Bellicos. 
Delirus stay, I do command you stay.  Deli: 
My Lord, I am not well, o'th' sudden.  Bellicos: 
So short a stay as this requires, can no ways  
Prejudice your health. Friend go on to let us know, as well  
The Murderers, as the murdered; heaven knows, I tremble  
But to think, at what I urge to know.  Anto: 
As soon as grief will give me leave  
(My Lord) I shall.—  Anto. pretends to weep. 
The murdered person, was that virtuous innocent, the  
Fair Aurelia, Daughter to the Lord Sebastian.  Deli. 
O Delirus, thou art lost for ever, ever lost.—  aside. Bellico. 
Sure friend thou didst but dream, and this some  
Vision was. It was an act so horrid, the gods in justice  
Never could have beheld. And there must want temptation  
In the fiends of hell, to work on man (though frail)  
To be her murderer.  Anto. 
My Lord, it was no idle dream; yet heaven can  
Witness, I could have gladly slept for ever, rather than lived  
To see this waking truth.  Bellico. 
Then briefly speak her murderers.  Anto. 
First on my knees I beg your gracious  
Pardon, for what—  Knelt. 
I must deliver or burst. And here I stand to accuse—  Riseth. 
Your son Delirus, and the Lady Artesia, daughter to the  
Late Lord Endymion, the innocent Aurelia's murderers.  
And Ferdinando, servant to the Lord Sebastian, (whom with this  
Hand I slew,) by them was hired her executioner.  Bellico. 
My trembling heart will hardly give my tongue  
The utterance to say it is impossible.  Deli. 
My Lord, I am confident your grave wisdom's such,  
there's nothing (this lose fellow) in madness hath delivered,  
Deserves your serious consideration, more than what punishment  
He hath deserved; for give me leave my Lord, had he his wits,  
(Which no man here can think) in what hath fair Aurelia  
Injured me? or if she had, my fair actions in the world  
Speak me no murderer Besides this frantic accusation,  
Delivered by a single man, whom none knows whence,  
Or what he is. My Honoured father, this rightly weighed.  
'Twere fit the slave should know his punishment, which  
Must be great as his offence. For villain know—  Turns to Anto. 
Thy life's to poor a satisfaction for my injury.  Anto. 
Sir, I have heard you, and must take leave to tell  
You, I am no slave nor villain; nor is there in these veins of  
Mine one drop of blood (however I appear) but sprung  
From Noble parents. And here I call the gods to witness  
With me; I wish, and hearty, you could but clear your  
Self of fair Aurelia's murder as thus I clear  
The doubts of what I am—  Pulls off his disguise, pulls out a purse. 
All Antonio!  Anto. 
You knew this purse Delirus, when loaden with  
The price of innocent Aurelia's blood, you gave it Ferdinando  
In part of payment for his black deed.  Deli. 
True Antonio, 'tis all but truth. O cruel Artesia,  
By thee I fall, to my eternal ruin—  Deli. Falls. Bellico. 
Be merciful great powers too a weak aged  
Man, and load me not too much with your afflictions,  
Your burden is to great, yet fain I would support it  
Bravely. Cornelius, I do command you take speedy order,  
That object of my shame be carefully conveyed to the  
Castle. And you Eugenio—  Ex. Corneli. 
Haste to Artesia's lodgings, where seize her with a guard,  
And house them both together. They may forgive each  
Other, and repent before their deaths.—  Ex. Eugen. 
O Antonio, I looked for joy at thy return, but thou hast brought  
Me woe; bitter woe Antonio, but I forgive thee freely,—  They fetch Deli. off the Stage 
And commend thy honest care, thou hast nothing done,  
But what our Laws, and thy religion bound thee to.  
Antonio, I mean to act the Judges part myself, for since  
Corruption crept into the Bench, the Jury finds it death for to be  
Poor, the rich may plead not guilty. Poor Lord Sebastian  
Thou shalt have justice done thee. (Small satisfaction for thy loss)  
Yet all the world shall see,  
If thine be great, mine cannot lesser be—  Exit Bellicosus, Antonio. Enter Sebastian, Ferdinando. Sebast. 
O Ferdinando, thou hast made me young again,  
Thou happy messenger of joy; me thinks thou hast pulled back  
Lest twenty of my years. And will the King be here  
(Dost say) and in disguise, and my Aurelia too?  Ferdinand. 
My Lord they will; be confident they will.  
I do expect them every minute.  Sebast. 
But Ferdinando, I want how to contrive to entertain  
Him, my poor house is quite unstored, and no direction's given  
For any thing, can look like welcome to him.  Ferdinand. 
My Lord, since you so much desire to make him  
Welcome, I shall instruct you how to make him so.  
If you but think his welcome doth consist in feasting (my Lord)  
You so mistake our present business, that know you ruin all  
His honourable designs, he hitherto (with care and pains) hath  
Laboured for to compass. First you must let it be your care,  
Your joy transports you not; but what of joy  
You must express, must be upon good grounds you are securely  
Private; other ways to take no notice of them, more  
Than what they outwardly appear to be.  
This, and no other is the welcome that the King expects.  Sebast. 
Thanks Ferdinando; honest Ferdinando, thou  
Faithfullest of servants, I thank thee for thy advice, which  
I in all things carefully will follow. I can no longer keep my  
Joy within the narrow bounds of my poor breast,  
It must (at these weak aged eyes of mine) have vent,  
It must, it must.—  Weeps for joy. Ferdinana. 
My Lord the King is here.  Enter King, Aurelia. Sebast. 
Long live my gracious King, and may your poor—  Knelt. 
Sebastian live to be truly thankful to the gods  
For this blessed hour of joy.  King. 
Rise Sebastian, no more of this, we know thy  
Love and Loyalty. But must enjoin you (in all your actions  
To express to us, not what we are, but what  
We appear to be.  Sebast. 
My much loved Lord, your poor Sebastian can be  
Acquainted with no other study but what shall teach me to obey.  
O my poor girl, never more welcome to thy father's arms.  Aurelia knelt. 
You gods, let not my joy make me forget my duty.  King. 
Ferdinando with speed find out Antonio, and let him  
Know of our arrival at the Lord Sebastian's, where we shall  
Hourly expect to hear, as he shall find occasions offer.  Ferdinand. 
I shall with care perform it—  Exit. King. 
Come my lord Sebastian, we are now your guests;  
Dispose us as you please, you dare without suspicion, trust  
Your fair daughter with us, her virtue's guard enough.  Sebast. 
Your own, (great Sir) may challenge a far  
Greater trust. So please you, I shall conduct you to  
The best part, of a homely house.  King. 
Sebastian you are happy you have a house that  
You may call your own; 'tis more than I dare do.  
Come my Aurelia, 'tis all my joy, that  
I can call thee mine.  Aureli. 
Sir, were't not a sin I am a stranger to,  
I should begin to fear I should grow proud o'th' honour  
You are pleased to do your creature.  King. 
As I to have such a creature for to honour.  Ex. Ambo. Enter Dorothy. sol. Doroth. 
My Lady hurried (with a guard) to the Castle?  
'Tis so, the scorn she threw upon Delirus hath made him desperate,  
And confess the murder; my jealous heart presaged  
No less, when no entreaties could prevail on him, I might  
But speak my message; which when I but  
Attempted, he seemed in scorn, and hate  
Of her to stop his ears.  
Lady, your plot's are now discovered to the world; at least,  
To Ciciley, which is too hot for me to live in.  
A ship (now weighing anchor) stands bound for Italy.  
I'll take this proffered means for my escape.  
Farewell Artesia, my safety bids not stay,  
She dies a fool, that dies, when live she may—  Exit. Enter. Enter Antonio, Cornelius. Cornel. 
Cruel Ferdinando, how were we all mistaken in  
That murdering villam, whose name (to all posterity in  
Memory of this damned act) shall ne'er be thought on but with  
Horror for fair Aurelia's loss. The gods (in her) have  
Robbed us of our Magazene of virtue  Anto. 
In her we have just cause to fear our Prince's loss,  
Their virtues were as inseparable, as I fear their fortune.  
Cornelius, how took Delirus his conduct to the Castle?  Cornel. 
With much seeming patience, but not a syllable  Enter Eugenio, 
Can be urged from him. How now Eugenio? how have you  
Disposed of your bloody fair one, the everlasting shame  
To all her sex? how doth her pride and envy  
Bear her present fortune?  Eugen. 
Prithee be merciful be merciful in thy opinion of her, for  
Though the thought of her foul deed proclaims her monstrous,  
Beshrew me but she made me weep, and so would thee  
Cornelius, hadst thou but seen her penitence.  Cornel. 
They're Crocodiles tears Eugenio, for know she can  
Put on what shape she please, to act her present part,  
And 'twas thy charity, not her true penitence,  
That so prevailed on thy believing sense.  Eugen. 
Cornelius, I boast (my self) to have no knowing  
Insight in the women's trade, yet dare with confidence affirm,  
Those passions I saw in her of sorrow for her fact could not  
Be counterfeit. For know▪ soon as she saw Delirus, in  
The Castle, her tears in floods gushed forth, as  
Witnesses, she sorrowed more for him, then for herself;  
And humbly on her knees before us all, confessed herself  
His murderer. At first he seemed with loathed eyes to  
Look on her, who still herself, confessed herself to be  
The principal in blood. This penitence in her, compassion  
Wrought in him, who took her up and kissed her  
In witness of forgiveness, she wept the more to see him  
Pity her, for which she knew she did deserve the less  
From him. So like two weeping Niobies they stood and read,  
(As well as tears would give them leave,) their own  
Misfortunes in each others face; and both in pity  
Wept, while they themselves, themselves unpitied,  
Yet for each other pitifully wept. When I (unused I  
Must confess) to wash my face in tears, made up  
A third in mourning. Which she perceiving, humbly  
Thanked me for my compassion, and hoped it was  
Bestowed on him, as what she not deserved. This,  
And such like expressions of repentance, with streams  
Of hearty sorrow flowing, wrought so in him, he asked  
Her if she loved him dying, she so much injured  
Living. Which she (as well as words and tears could witness  
For her) answered, yes, so well, that were she but as  
Sure of his, she should rejoice a faithful penitent in death.  
This, in true signs of love, and sorrow uttered, he  
Sends away (strait) for a holy man o'th' Church,  
Who after some private confession on both sides made,  
Joined both their hands in holy marriage; which  
Done, as grief would give them leave, they both  
Rejoiced, and kissed; then wept again, so that my  
Pity (in my tears) rather increased, then lessened by my  
Stay. When urging necessity for my departure, I sadly  
Took my leave, and left them prodigally bestowing  
Their tears upon each others face.  Anto. 
I blame thee not Eugenio, for being a weeping  
witness of their woes, when I can scarce forbear  
At the relation; heaven knows, I wish them long  
Life on earth to enjoy each others love.  Corneli. 
Eugenio, Thou hast delivered miracles,  
But know, I can believe what comes from thee,  
Which had appeared much doubtful from another's  
Mouth; she hath purchased now my pity and my  
Prayers, which I'll acknowledge justly due, and pay—  Enter Fabi. weeping Antonio 
How now Fabius, weeping for your young master?  Fabi. 
You cannot blame me Sir, when I am  
Made the messenger of death.  Eugenio. 
How? sure 'tis not yet come to that.  Fabi. 
I would it were not; or else some other had  
Been made the messenger.  Corneli. 
Prithee speak out, that we may understand you.  Fabi. 
The King enraged, to understand his son  
Was married to his murderer, commanded me to  
Let them know 'bout four a clock this afternoon,  
They must prepare to die, and keep their  
Wedding in the other world. Which they (poor  
Souls) with joy received, and thanked me for my pains;  
(As willingly) as if I had deserved it:  Anto. 
'Twas but short warning, the gods  
Prepare them for their long journey. Gentlemen,  
I have some present business calls me aside, but  
I shall soon return to share with you in sorrow.  Ex. Anto. Eugenio. 
You'll hardly find us unprepared for that.  
But thinkest thou Fabius the King intends this  
Hasty execution; 'tis surely done to fright them into a  
Preparation for the other world:  Fabi. 
Sir, Pray heaven you not deceive yourself.  
The King is known too constant in his resolves,  
To alter what he with seriousness protests, which to our  
Griefs we too too soon shall find.  Corneli. 
Eugenio; The time's but short, and 'tis  
But labour lost if we not speed. If he will have  
Them die let's move for longer time.  Eugenio. 
With all any heart, I shall plead hard for one.  Corneli. 
Then let's away.—  Exit. Enter Delirus Artesia. In mourning habits, as in prison. Deli. 
Come my Artesia, dry those fair eyes, the gods  
We know are merciful, and can forgive what  
We can act. Thou hast with penitential tears, in  
Streams of sorrow (from thy swollen eyes)  
Washed off that guilt that clouded thy fair soul,  
And dost appear as white as sainted innocence. We  
Are married to another world Artesia, let them  
Enjoy the happiness in this (if there by any in't)  
That are wedded to it, whom we with pity, not  
With envy must behold. And 'tis no little joy, amidst  
Our sea of troubles, to see thee thus prepared for  
Death; which we'll embrace as greedily, as  
Shipwrackt travellers do the longed for shore:  
And O thou injured maid, in what celestial  
Part so e'er (thy now made glorious soul) doth hover;  
Look down with pity and a forgiving eye, on us  
Thy sorrowful murderers, who ready stand to  
Sacrifice two lives, to appease thy angry ghost.  
Give me thy hand Artesia, our time draws on apace,  
And yet methinks I fain would have thee live;  
Would my poor life pay the great debt we own,  
But the devouring law cries all or none. Thy blood  
Artesia, sits with a confidence in thy fair cheeks,  
As if it meant not suddenly to leave its habitation.  
And 'tis great pity, now it hath possession, to turn it  
Out of doors.  Artesi. 
My Lord, I have but ill deserved this  
Noble pity; and here my dying breath shall witness  
For me, I would not live on earth after your  
Death, to be commandress of the world. Yet know  
My Lord, I gladly could both live, and die, to serve you.  
Dye, for to confirm this doubtful world, with  
What a feeling sorrow for my sins, I could endure  
Death, and live with you on earth; to witness to the  
World how I could love, and honour you. Which  
Since denied, I gladly shall embrace my death, and  
Only grieve I have robbed the world of you—  Enter Fabius. Fabi. 
My Lord, your guard waits you, and you to  
Death are summoned.  Deli. 
It shall be welcome Fabius. Thou seest no  
Pannique fear about us.—  Takes her by the chin. 
See how the lilies, and the roses in these  
Fair cheeks undaunted fit. Why dost thou weep for us.  Fabi. 
I weep (my lord) for you, and for myself; for  
You, that you must lose your life; and for myself that none  
But I, must be chose out the messenger of death.  Deli. 
Thou art vainly troubled, at what I thank thee for.  
Come my Artesia, this kiss, now lead us to our deaths.  Kisses her. Exit. Enter Goldcalf sol. Gold. 
here's do indeed, my Mistress going to pot  
I'faith. What a deal of moneyed has cost me to be a Colonel  
To no purpose. A plague of that stripling stranger, he made no  
Stranger of my money I am sure; the Jack napes firked  
Me too, out of my Deeds of almost a thousand pounds a year.  
Pox of those German's bones, my Cousin Captain slew in Duel;  
They were sufficiently revenged on me for the murder, but  
'Tis no matter, I have saved my life yet, by not being  
Too hasty. If I had married Artesia, I had been peppered i'faith,  
(However I scape yet) for there's Delirus, a brave spark  
Must die, but for offering to have her.—  Enter Snap gallaut. 
hay day Snap, what turned Gentleman?  Snap. 
Sirrah, no more such bugs words; which if you dare  
But utter, I'll nail your ears to the wall; a punishment  
Your honourable father (long before his death) wisely  
Prevented, by leaving them behind him on the Pillory,  
For Cozening such honest Gentlemen as myself.  
For know you wretch, you that dare talk saucily, the  
Gentleman that won your Deeds of you at play, when be perused  
Them, and knew them to be the very same your father  
Cozened my uncle of; He, in pity of my present wants  
Bestowed them upon me, and they are mine.  
And should I chance to hear you should but say they e'er were  
Yours. People should soon forget you were alive.  
But as you may behave yourself, I may forget all your  
Past folly, and keep you company.  Gold. 
Thank you good Snap.  Snap. 
You draw no breath if I but hear that word again.  Gold. 
Pray sir, forgive me for this once and I'll remember;  
How may I call you, are you a Colonel too?  Snap. 
No sir, by chance, I am no Colonel; the name I  
Answer too, is Sunck-low.  Gold. 
Sunck-low; Methinks you are risen very high.—  A side 
Well honest Mr. Sunklow, pray let me have your company for  
Old acquaintance sake; you know you can lose nothing by it.  
But by no means, be not known, how I was beloved, for  
Mr. Sunk low, it were as much as my life's worth, were it but  
Known Artesia would have married me, for there's one  
Must die, but for offering to have her.  Snap. 
Well Sir, I shall be careful, so you observe as I  
Instruct. Farewell—  Exit Snap. Gold. 
I am finely gulled i'faith, but I must wiser be,  
Or else resolve, to wear Snaps livery.—  Exit. Enter upon a black Stage. Bellicosus, Sebastian, weeping. Antoni. Corneli. Eugenio. Fabi. Delirus, Artesia, in mourning. Executioner. After them, the King and Ferdinando. Disguised. Belli. 
My Lord Sebastian, the gods (you see) have here  
Miraculously discovered to the world, your daughter's  
Murderers. (And yet, but that we know them to be so,  
They do not look like such) my Lord you shall have  Speaking to Sebastian 
Justice done. Delirus, were't thou a Stranger to my blood as  
It ill becomes a Judg. And all you gods can witness, amidst  
My mass of grief, I have rejoiced to hear your sorrows for  
Your faults expressed, and willingness to die. I must confess  
Your have been cruel, bitterly cruel to yourselves and us; for by your  
Means (Heaven knows I not accuse your wills to do't) we have  
Lost a general loss, unspeakable, a King, a virtuous King, never to be  
Enough lamented. But I shall cease to add unto a grief,  
This world affords no cure for; and will forbear to stop  
You longer in your journey to a better.  
But ere you go, take with you my forgiveness, and with it,  
Both my blessings. And may that comfortable joy good men  
Receive in death, fill both your breasts.  Deli. 
My gracious father (unhappy in so unfortunate a son)  
We come with no set speeches here, for to prolong  
Our wretched lives. Let not those aged eyes distil a tear  
For us, we are prepared for death. Can you (my lord Sebastian)  
And all the rest, show mercy to a dying pair, in your  
Forgiveness; we gladly would departed this life in peace,  
With all the world, if you vouchsafe, it may be so.  All. 
Our prayers, and tears speak for us, we both  
Forgive and pity.  Deli. 
The gods above (with store of blessings  Arte. 
Reward your charity. We are now at peace with  
Heaven, and earth, and fain would be at our expected rest.  Bellico. 
Then Sirrah do your office.—  The executioner prepares to strike. King 
Hold, hold I say.  Bellico. 
Who's? that dares contradict what we command?  King 
If you have not forgot me Bellicosus, 'tis one  
That had power to dare; nor do I know by what  
Strange means I have lost it; know you this face—  King discovers himself. Anto. 
The King? Long may the gods preserve your  
Life, and make us thankful acknowledgers of his  
Blessings in your Highness' safety.  Bellico. 
Pardon me gracious Prince, my sudden joy  
Encountering so much grief, made a confusion in my troubled  
Senses, and did retard my duty. Which thus upon my knees—  He knelt. 
I beg forgiveness for; and what so e'er (forced for the  
Common safety of your distracted kingdom) I have taken  
On me, here on my knees, in duty to your Highness  
I surrender with tears of joy. Long live our gracious  
King Amasius, King of Sicily.  All 
Long live Amasius King of Sicily.—  all kneel King 
My Lords, and Gentlemen, I thank you all  
For the Loyal remembrance of your poor Prince,  
Whose tender care shall be to study all your  
Safeties, and preserve them. Rise Bellicosus, thou  
Ever to be admired pattern of love and Loyalty. Just man,  
I ask thee pardon for every evil thought, I ever  
Harboured 'gainst thy virtue. Justice and mercy still  
Walk hand in hand, I know thou canst forgive it.  Belli. 
O my much honoured Lord, your virtue ever  
Kept too strong a guard on vice, to let you act what  
Can deserve forgiveness, from any but the gods.  
My Lord, I shall become an earnest suitor, that  
You'll vouchsafe to let a piece of justice pass on these  
Prepared Offenders.  King 
Offenders? Delirus, and the fair Artesia,  
(If I mistake not)—  King looks at Deli. Artesi. 
My Lord, what mask is this, for sure they cannot act  
Offenders parts in earnest; pray make me understand you.  Belli. 
Forgive me then my Lord, that must be the sad  
Reporter of my shame, and their unheard of cruelty.  
In them behold the fair, and virtuous innocent  
Aurelia's, murderers.  King 
You have unjustly done, but to suspect them  
Guilty, your witnesses are false, Delirus, and Artesia,  
Murderers? it cannot be, it is impossible; poor soul she ever  
Loved them well, so they did her; it is some villainous  
Train, (by forgery) laid to betray their innocent lives.  
And here I set them free—  King takes them by the hand. Belli: 
My gracious lord they have confessed the fact.  King 
'Twas then because they were ashamed to live  
After so foul a charge maliciously laid on them:  
Delirus, Artesia, speak, was it not so?  Deli. 
My Lord, and King, we are Aurelia's murderers,  
For which foul deed, we have with tears and prayers  
Made peace with heaven and earth, if you'll be  
Merciful and but forgive us too.  King 
With as much willingness, as I'll receive a blessing;  
Rise both, rise I say, so. Bellicosus, I hope (in my—  They rise. 
Late pilgrimage, I have made my peace with heaven,  
For all my youthful sins, and am (at length) returned  
With joy. As for Aurelia (know Bellicosus) I  
Loved her more than life; but since unfortunately  
She is dead, and these her murderers (as they confess)  
Have truly sorrowed for their offence; I here  
Pronounce their pardons, which stands irrevocable,  
If I command in chief.  Belli. 
Why then my Lord, you are to yourself, and  
All the world unjust. In your commanding hands you  
Hold a sword, as well as scales; can it be mercy called  
To act injustice. Princes, as the Ambassadors  
From heaven are bound to right the wronged, and not  
To wrong who should be righted. Behold this  
Aged man whose bitter tears of sorrow cry out—  Turns to Sebast. 
(Aloud) for Justice. And if my gracious Lord) you  
Have made a vow (at the return from your devotions) to act  
A piece of mercy; now show it on yourself, in  
Doing Justice on these prepared offenders.  King 
O Bellicosus, thou art my safe Protector and my  
Guide to virtue, behold this warrant for the justness—  The King brings in Aurelia, in rich attire; Bellira following. 
Of my actions— nay be not wonder-struck,  
She is alive—  
And warm.—  Kisses her Bellicos. 
I am overcome with the apprehension of a joy,  
I fear myself unable for to bear. Welcome to  
Life thou virtuous maid. Cornelius, Eugenio, all see, Aurelia  
Is alive, and our lost Prince returned; safely returned;  
Delirus and Artesia, ask mercy of the King, and  
Fair Aurelia; they are good, exceeding good, and can forgive.  
So, so, my joy must have a larger vent,  
Or I shall burst,—  Turns about and weeps. Deli. 
The gods preserve your Highness,—  Deli. Art. 
And the much wronged  Art▪ knelt Aurelia.— Ferdinando discovers himself to Bellira. Artesi. 
O my most Gracious Prince, and thou  
Much injured maid, if ever tears, from a true sorrowing  
Heart compassion moved; pronounce forgiveness  
To a pair, whose tears in prayers, to the just Gods, we'll  
Daily pay for your Eternal happiness.  King 
Rise, and here receive (from us)  
Forgiveness and our favour.  Aureli. 
May all my actions prosper as I freely do forgive  
You both. Long may you live and love.  Deli. 
The gods crown all your desires, with joy  Arte. 
And length of days.  King. 
My Lord Sebastian, I now must call you father,  
For by to morrow night, I doubt not your consent,  
To bed the fair Aurelia,  Sebast. 
My Lord, we are your poor creatures, can only pay  
Our daily thanks, for what undeserved honours you  
Are pleased to throw upon us.  Aurel. 
So please your Majesty, I see a pair  
Of lovers met (I have long parted) desirous  
To kiss your hand.—  Ferdinando knelt, and Bellira; the King gives him his. hand to kiss King 
Rise Ferdinando, and may'st thou joy in thy  
Fair choice, thy faithful services, shall be  
My Care to see rewarded.  
Come Bellicosus we shall some mysteries unriddle to you,  
And let you understand, Antonio's mistake in his relation  
Our following days, do fairly promise joy.  
He ignorantly fears,  
The sailing of his ship, that Bellicosus steers.     

The Epilogue, intended for the STAGE.  
ALL from our Author that I have to say,  
Is that he hopes (as we) you'll like his play.  
Confirm then what (as yet) but stands in doubt,  
As you came welcome in, you'll go pleased out.   

Epilogue, to the Reader.  
NOw Critic woudbees, (faith) my play's not good  
You'll say, because when read 'tis understood.  
Would I have pleased you, I should have written so,  
Not to understand't myself (nor you) you know  
When you have read it. (pox on't) what's easily said,  
Though ne'er so quick, aught to be buried.  
Which if it be, 'twill rise again by fits,  
To fright you (if you have any) from your wits.  
Which to preserve, be modest, or writ better,  
You'h more than paid me then, I'll rest your debtor.  
As unto all wipes out my faulty score,  
Till by my next, I run indebted more.  
FINIS.