THE DISCONTENTED colonel. Written by Sir JOHN SUCKLIN. LONDON, Printed by E. G. for Francis Eagles-field, and are to be sold at the marigold in Paul's Churchyard. The Scene Poland. The Actors Names. SIgismond, King of Poland. Miessa. Melidor. A Lord . Counsellors to the King. Brennoralt, a discontent. Doran, His Friend. Villanor. Granivert. Marrinell . Cavaliers and Officers Under Brennoralt. Strathman. Fresolin, Brother to Francelia. Iphigene, young Palatine of Florence. Palatine of Menser, Governor, one of the chief Rebels. Palatine of Trock a Rebel. Almerin, a gallant Rebel. Morat, his Lieutenant Colonel. Francelia, the Governors Daughter. Orillia, a waiting woman to Francelia. Raguelin, a servant in the governor's House, but spy to Brennoralt. jailor. Guard. soldiers. THE DISCONTENTED colonel. Actus primus. Scena prima. Enter Brennoralt, Doran. Bren. I Say the Court is but a narrow circuit, Though something elevate about the common; A kind of aunt's nest in the great wild field, o'ercharged with multitudes of quick inhabitants, Who still are miserably busied, get in, What the loose foot of prodigality, As fast doth throw abroad. Dor. Good. A most eternal place of low affronts, And then as low submissions. Bren. Right. High cowards in Revenges 'mongst themselves, And only valiant, when they mischief others, Dor. Stars, that would have no name, But for the ills they threaten in conjunction: Bren. A race of shallow, and unskilful Pilots, Which do misguide the ship, even in the calm, And in great storms, serve but as weight To sink it, Alarum within. More, prithee more. 'tis music to my melancholy. Enter Soldier. My Lord; a cloud of dust and men The sentinels from the East gate discover, And as they guess, the storm bends this way. Bren. Let it be. Sol. My Lord. Bren. Let it be, I will not fight today, Bid Strathman draw to the Trenches, On, prithee on. Dor. The King employs a company of formal Leards, Men who have no other other proof of their Long life, but that they are old. Bren. Right, and if they're wise, 'tis for themselves, not others, As old men ever are. Alarum. Enter Soldier. Sol. Colonel, Colonel, The enemy's at hand, kills all the sentries, Young Alermin leads them on again. Bren. Let him lead them off again then, Second Sol. Colonel. Bren. Be gone, If thou'rt afraid, go hide thyself, Second Sol. What a devil ails he? Exit. Bren. This Almerin's the ague of the Camp, He shakes it once a day. Dor. It is the ill conscience rather, He never lets it rest, Would I were at home again, 'Sfoot we lie here i'th' trenches, as if it were For a wind to carry us in the other World, every hour we expect, I'll no more on't; Bren. Prithee. Dor. Not I by heaven. Bren. What man, the worst is but fair death. Dor. And what will that amount to? Fair Epitaph, a fine account, I'll home I swear: Enter Strathman. Stra. Arm, arm, my Lord, And show yourself, all's lost else. Dor. Why so? Stra. The Rebels, like an unruly flood, Roll o'er the Trenches, and throw down All before them. Bren. Ha. Stra. we cannot make a stand. Bren. He would outrival us in honour too As well as love, but that he must not do; Help me Stratheman; (puts on Armour, The danger now grows worthy of our swords, And O Doran, would heaven there were No other storm, than this worst Tempest here. Exeunt. Enter Marrinell throwing down one he carries. Mar. There: The Sun's the nearest surgeon I know, And the honestest, if thou recoverest, why so? If not, the cure's paid; they have mauled us. Enter Granivert with another upon his back. Gran. A curse light on this powder, It spoils valour ere 'tis half way its journey, What a disadvantage fight we upon in this age? He that did well heretofore, Had the broad fair day to show it in, Witnesses enough; we must believe one another, 'Tis night when we begin. Smalke, by this hand I can bear with you No longer, how now? dead as I live; Stolen away just as he used to a wench, Well go thy ways for a quiet drinker and dyer, I shall never know thy fellow; (searches his pockets. These trifles too about thee. There was never an honester poor wretch Borne, I thinks, hum Marrinell (she spies Marrinell, Mar. Who's that? Gra. 'tis I, Hem. how goes matters? Mar. Scurvily enough; Yet since our Colonel came, they've got no ground Of us, a weak Sculler against wind and Tide, Would have done as much, hark, This way the Torrent bears. (Exeunt. Enter Fresolin, Almerin, Rebels. Fre. The villains all have left us. Alm. Would they had left their fears, Behind them with the enemy, But come, since we must. (Exeunt. Enter Brennoralt, Soldiers. Bren. Hoe Stratheman, Skirt on the left hand with the horse; And get betwixt these and that body: They're rallied up for rescue. Dor. They're ours. Bren. Charge through. (Exeunt. A shout within. Enter Brennoralt, Stratheman, Doran, Marrinell. Bren, What shout is that? Stra. They've taken Almerin my Lord. Bren. Almerin, the devil thank them for't, When I had hunted hard all day, And now at length unherded the proud dear, The curs have snatched him up, sound a retreat. there's nothing now behind; who saw Doran? Stra. Shall we bring Almerin in my Lord? Bren. No, Gazing is low Triumph, Convey him fairly to the King, He fought it fairly. Doran. What youth was that whom you bestrid my Lord, And saved from all our Swords today, Was he not of the enemy? Bren. It may be so. Stra. The governor's son Fresolin his mistress's brother in Dorancare. Bren. No matter whom. Pity the rough hand of war, should early Courages destroy, before they bud, Or show themselves i'th' heat of action. Mar. I threw my Lord a youth upon a bank Which seeking after the retreat I found Dead, and a Woman the pretty daughter Of the Forester, Lucillia. Bren. See, see, Doran, a sad experiment, Woman's the cowardliest and coldest thing The world brings forth, Yet love as fire works water, Makes it boil over, and do things contrary To its proper nature, I should shed a tear could I tell how: Poor Lucillia, thou didst for me what did As ill become thee, see her gently buried: Boy, send the surgeon to the tent; I bleed: What lousy cottages they'ave given our souls? Each petty storm shakes them into disorder, And costs more pain to patch them up again Then they are worth by much: I'm weary of the tenement. Exeunt. Enter Villanor, Granivert, Marrinell and Stratheman. Gra. Villanor, welcome, welcome, when cam'st thou? Vil. Look, I wear the Kings high way still on my boots Gra. A pretty riding phrase, and how, and how, Ladies cheape. Vil. Faith reasonable. Those toys were never dear thou know'st; A little time and industry they'll cost. But in good faith, not much, some few there are, That set themselves at mighty rates. Gra. Which we o'th' wise pass by, As things are valued in the market; is't not so? Vill. You have said Sir. Your friend the Rival's married, Has obtained the long loved Lady, And is such an ass after. Gran. Hum. 'tis ever so, The motions of married people are as of other natural violent Gentlemen to the place and calm in it. Mar. We know this so, and yet we must be fooling. Gra. Faith, women are the baggage of life, They are troublesome, and hinder us In the great March; and yet we cannot be without 'em: Mar. You speak very well, and Soldierlike. Gra. What thou art a wit too I warrant In our absence. Mar. Hum. No, no, a poor pretender, A Candidate, or so, 'gainst the next Sessions, Wit enough to laugh at you here. Gra. Like enough, valour's a crime, The wise have still approached unto the valiant, And the fools too. Vill. Raillery apart Granivert, What accommodation shall we find here? Gra. Clean straw sweet heart, and meat, When thou canst get it. Vill. Hum-straw. Gra. Yes. That's all will be betwixt Incest, You and your mother Earth must lie together Vill. Prithee let's be serious, will this last? How goes affairs? Gra. Well; Vill. But well: Gra. Faith 'tis now upon the turning of the balance, A most equal business twixt Rebellion and Loyalty. Vill. What dost mean? Gra. Why which shall be the virtue, and which shall be the vice? Vill. How the devil can that be? Gra. O success is a rare point, hides all the ugliness! Vill. Prithee what's the quarrel? Gra. Nay, for that excuse us, Ask the children of peace, They have the leisure to study it: We know nothing of it, Liberty they say: Vill. 'Sfoot Let the King make an act, That any man may be unmarried again; there's liberty for them, a race of Half witted fellows quarrel about freedom, And all that while allow the bonds of matrimony. Gra. You speak very well Sir; Mar. Soft, the King and Council. Enter King, Lords, Brennoralt. Gra. Look, they follow after like tired spaniels, Quest sometimes for company, that is, concur, And that's their business. Mar. They are as weary of this sport, As a young unthrift of his land. Any bargain to be rid on't. Vill. Can you blame them, who's that? Mar: Brennoralt, our brave Colonel, A discontent, but what of that, who is not? Vill. His face speaks him one, Mar. thouart in the right! He looks still as if he were saying to Fortune, housewife, go about your business, Come let's retire to burrutheus' Tent, Taste a bottle, and speak bold truths, That's our way now. (Exeunt. Manent K. Lords. Mies. Think not of pardon Sir, Rigour and mercy used in states Incertainly and in ill times, Look not like the effects of virtue, But necessity, nor will they thank Your goodness, but your fears. Melid. My Lord Revenge in Princes Should be still imperfect, it is the handsomest, The King comes to reduce, not ruin. Bren. Who puts but on the face of punishing, And only gently acts, but prunes Rebellion, He makes that flourish, which he would destroy Who would not be a rebel? when the hopes Are vast, the fears but small. Melid. I would not, nor you my L. nor any here, Fear keeps low spirits in, the brave Do get above it, when they do resolve, Such punishments in infancy of war, Makes men more desperate, not more yielding: The common people are a kind of flies, Are catched with honey, not with wormwood, Severity exasperates the stirred up humour, And state distempers turns into diseases. Brex. The Gods defend great Poland state should be Such, as it dares not to take right Physic, Quarters to rebels Sir. When you give that to them, Give that to me which they deserve, I would not live to see it. Third Lord. Turn o'er your own And other Chronicles, & you shall find (great) That nothing makes a civil war long lived, (Sir But ransom returning back the brands, Which unextinct kindled still fiercer fires. Mies. Mercy bestowed on those dispute with Swords, Does lose the Angel face it has, And is not mercy Sir, but policy, With a weak vizard on. King. You've not my thoughts, My Lords, Nor will it need larger debates tomorrow, In the sight of the besieged, the rebel dies, Miessa, 'tis your care the mercy Of high heaven may be offended so, That it cannot forgive mortals, much more Which is not infinite, My Lords. Exeunt. Enter Iphigene, Almerin, as in prison. Iphi. O Almerin, Would we had never known the ruffle of the world, But were again by golden banks in solitude, Where thou and I, shepherd, and shepherdess, So oft by turns, as often still have wished, That we as easily could have changed our Sex, As Clothes, but all those innocent joys, Like glorious morning are retired into Dark sullen clouds, before we know To value what we had. Alm. Fame, and victory are light huswives. That throw themselves into the arms, Not of the valiant, but the fortunate, To be taken thus: Iph. Almerin. Alm. Nipped in the bud of honour. Iph. My Lord. Alm. Foiled, and by the man, That doth pretend unto Francelia. Iph. What is't you do my Almerin? Sit still and quarrel with the winds Because there is a shipwreck towards, And never think of saving of the Bark. Alm. The Bark, what should we do with that? When the rich freight is lost, my name in arms. Iph. Who knows what prizes are behind, If you attend, and wait a second voyage. Alm. Never, never, There are no second voyages in this, The wounds of honour do admit no cure. Iph. Those slight ones which misfortune gives must needs, Else why should mortals value it at all? For who would toil to treasure up a wealth, Which weak inconstancy did keep, Or might dispose of? (Enter Melidor. O my Lord, what news? Melia. As ill as your own fears could give you, The Counsel has decreed him sudden death, And all the ways to mercy are blocked up. Iphi. weeps, and sighs. Alm. My Iphigen, This was a misbecoming piece of love, Women would manage a disaster better, (he weeps and sighs again. Again thou art unkind; Thy goodness is so great, it makes thee faulty; For whilst thou think'st to take the trouble from me Thou giv'st me more, by giving me thine too. Iph. Alas, I am indeed, a useless trifle, A dull, dull thing, for could I now do any thing But grieve and pity, I might help; My thoughts labour to find a way, But like to birds in cages, Though they never rest, They are but where they did set out at first. Enter jailer. Iai. My Lord your pardon, The prisoner must retire, I have received an order from the King, Denies access to any. Iph. He cannot be so great a Tyrant. Alm. I thank him, nor can he use me ill enough; I only grieve that I must die in debt, A bankrupt, such thy love has made me; My dearest Iphigene, farewell, It is no time for ceremony, Show me which way I must, Exit. Iph. Grief strove with such disorder to get out, It stopped the passage, sent back my words, That were already on the place. Melid. Stay, there is yet a way. Iph. O speak it. Mel. But there is danger in't Iphigene, To thee high danger. Iph. Fright children in the dark with that, And let me know it, there's no such thing in nature if Almerin be lost. Mel. Thus then, You must be taken prisoner too, And by that exchange save Almerin. Iph. How can that be? Mel. Why— studies. Step in and pray him set his hand (To the jailor About this distance, his seal too. Iai. My Lord, I know not what that is. Mel. Settling of money business fool betwixt us. Iai. If't be no more. Mel. Tell him Iphigene and I desire it: (Exit: I'll send by Strathocles his servant A letter to Morat, thus signed, and sealed, That shall inform the sudden execution, Command him as the only means, To save his life, to sally out this night Upon the Quarters. and endeavour prisoners, Name you as most secure, and slightliest guarded, Best pledge of safety; but charge him That he kill not any, if't be avoidable, Lest it should enrage the King yet more And make his death more certain. Enter jailor with the writings. Iai. He understands it not, He says, but he hath sent it. Iph. But should Morat mistrust now, Or this miscarry. Mel. Come leave it to me, I'll take the Pilots part And reach the port, or perish in the art. Actus Secundus. Enter Almerin in prison. Alm. Sleep is as nice as woman, The more I court it, the more it flies me. Thy elder brother will be kinder yet; Unsent for death will come tomorrow. Well, what can tomorrow do? 'Twill cure the sense of honour lost; I and my discontents, shall rest together: What hurt is there in this? But death against the will, Is but a slovingly kind of potion; And though prescribed by Heaven, It goes against men's stomachs, So does it at fourscore too, when the soul's Mewed up in narrow darkness, Neither sees, nor hairs, Pish, 'tis mere fondness in our nature, A certain clownish cowardice, that still Would stay at home, and dares not venture Into foreign Countries, the better than Its own— ha, what Countries? for we receive Description of the world from our Divines, ● As blind men take relations of this from us, My thoughts lead me into the dark, And there they leave me; I'll no more on't. He knocks within there; some papers & a light; I'll write toth' King, Defy him, and provoke a quick dispatch, I would not hold this lingering doubtful state, So long again for all that hope can give. Enter 3. or. 4. of the guard with papers, writing, That Sword doth tempt me strangely Were't in my hands, 'twere worth the other two But then the guard, it sleeps And drinks, may be to contrive, If so, that I could not pass, Why if I fall in't, 'tis better yet then pageantry, A Scaffold or spectators, more Soldier like. one of the guard peeps over his shoulder. uncivil villain. read my letter? 1. Guard. Not I, not I, my Lord. Alm. Deny it too, snatches his sword, strikes him. 1. Guard. Murder, murder, Arm, arm. The Guard runs out. Alm. I'll follow, give the Alarum within, 'tis less suspicious, arm, arm, arm. The enemy, the enemy. Exit. Sol, Let them come, Let them come, let them come. Enter Soldiers running o'er the stage, one throwing away his arms. Enter Almerin. Al. I hear fresh noise, The Camp's in great disorder, where am I now? 'Tis strangely dark, goddess without eyes Be thou my guide, for blindness, and sight, Are equal sense, and equal use this night. Exit. Enter Granivert, Stratheman, Villanor, Marrinell. Gra. Trouble not thyself, child of discontent, 'twill take no hurt I warrant thee, The state is but a little drunk, And when't has spewed up that, that made it so, 'twill be well again, there's my opinion in short. Mar. thouart in the right, The state's a pretty forehanded state, And will do reason hereafter, Let's drink, and talk no more on't. Al. A good motion, a good motion, let's drink. Vil. ay, ay, let's drink. Stra. Come, to a mistress. Gra. Agreed, name, name. Vil. anybody, Vermillia. Gra. Away with it. she's pretty to walk with, And witty to talk with, And pleasant to think on, But the best use of all Is, her health is a stawle And helps us, to make us drink on. Stra. Excellent. Gentlemen, if you say the word, we'll vaunt credit, and affect high pleasure, Shall we? Vil. ay, I, Let's do that. Stra. What think you of the sacrifice now? Mar Come, we'll have it, For trickling tears are vain. Vil. The sacrifice, what's that? Stra. Child of ignorance, 'tis a camp health, An Alamode one, Granivert begin it. Gra. Come give it me. Let me see, (Picks up a Rose: Which of them this Rose will serve, hum, hum, hum, Bright Star o'the lower Orb twinkling inviter Which drawest (as well as eyes) but sets men righter. For who at thee begins, comes to the place Sooner than he, that sets out at the face: Eyes are seducing lights, that the good women know And hang out these a nearer way to show. Mar. Fine, and pathetical, come Villanor. Vil. What's the matter? Mar. Come your liquor, and your stanzons, Lines, lines. Vil. Of what. Mar. Why of any thing your Mistress has given you. Vil. Gentlemen, she never gave me any thing but a box O'th' ear, for offering to kiss her once; Stra. Of that box then. Mar. ay, ay, of that box, of that box. Vil. Since it must be, give me the poison then (Drinks That Box fair Mistress, which thou gav'st me and spits. inhuman guess, is like to cost me three, Three cups of wine, and verses six, The Rhyme will down, but verse for Rhyme still sticks, By which you all will easily, Gentles know I am better drink than a Po— Enter Doran. Mar. La you there now. Doran, Doran. Gra. A Hall, a Hall. To welcome our friend. Some liquor he A newer fresh face, Must not alter our pace, But make us still drink the quicker hoe Wine, Wine O 'tis Divine; Come let us unto our brother. What's at the tongues end It forth doth send And will not a syllable smother. Then, It unlocks the breast, And throws out the rest, And learns us to know each other. Dor. Mad lads, have ye been here ever since? Stra. Yes faith, thou seest the worst of us. We debauch in discipline, four and twenty hours is the time, Burrutheus had the watch tonight, Tomorrow 'twill be at my tent Dor. Good and d'ee know what has fallen out tonight? Stra. Yes, Granivert and my Lieutenant Colonel, But they are friends again. Dor. Pish, pish, the young Palatine of Florence And his grave guardian surprised tonight, Carried by the enemy out of his quarters. Gra. As a Chicken by a Kite out of a backside, Was't not so? Dor. Is that all? Gra. Yes, my colonel did not love him, He eats sweet meats upon a march too. Dor. Well, hark ye, Worse yet, Almerin's gone, Forced the Court of Guard where he was prisoner And has made an escape. Gra. So pale and frightless a wretch, Drew Priam's Curtain in the dead of night, And told him, half Troy was burned, He was of my mind, I would have done so myself. Do. Well, there's high suspicions abroad. Ye shall see strange discovery I'th' counsel of war. Gra. what counsel speaks? Dor. One called this morning, You're all sent to. Gra. I'll put on clean linen and speak wisely. Dor. 'sfoot we'll have a round first. Gra. By all means sir. Sings. Come let the State stay, And drink away, There is no business above it. It warms the cold brain, It makes us speak in high strain, he's a fool that does not approve it. The Macedon youth Left behind him this truth, That nothing is done with much thinking, He drunk and sought Till he had what he sought, The world was his own by good drinking. Exeunt. Enter General of the Rebels, Palatine of Trock, Minse, Francelia, Almerin, Norat. Gen. As your friend my Lord, he has the privilege of ours, And may enjoy a liberty we would deny To enemies. Alm. I thank your Excellence, O Iphigene he does not know That thou the nobler part of friendship hold'st, And dost oblige whilst I can but acknowledge. Mi. Opportunity to states men is as the just degree Of heat to Chemists, it perfects all the work, And in this prisoner 'tis offered. We now are there where men should still begin To treat upon advantages. The Palatine of Trock and Minse, With Almerin shall to the King. Petition shall be drawn. Humble in form, but of that matter As the bold Macedonian youths would send To men they did despise for luxury, The first begets opinion in the world; Which looks not far, but on the outside dwells, tother enforces courage in our own; For bold demands, must boldly be maintained. Pal. Let all go on still in the public name, But keep an ear open to particular offer, Liberty and public good Are like great Oleos, Must have the upper end still of our tables, Though they are but for show. Fra. Would I had never seen that shape 'Thas poison in't Yet where dwells good, if ill inhabit there? Min. Press much Religion, For though we dress the scruples for the multitude, And for ourselves reserve the advantages (It being much pretext) yet it is necessary For things of faith are so abstruse and nice They will admit dispute continually, So howsoever other demands appear, These never can be proved unseasonable The subject being of so fine a nature, If not submits himself to sense, but scapes The trials, which concludes all common doubts. Fran. My Lord, you use me, as ill painters paint, Who while they labour to make faces fair, Neglect to make them like. Iph. Madam, there is no shipwreck of your Virtues near, that you should throw away Any of all your excellencies To save the dearest modesty. Gen. If they proceed with us, we can retreat Unto expositions, and the people's votes, If they refuse us wholly, than we plead The King's besieged, blocked up so straight By some few, that relief can find no way To enter to the King, or yet out to us, Exclaim against it loud, Till the Polonians think it high injustice, And with us better yet: Then easily do we rise unto our ends, And will become their envy through their pity. At worst you may confirm our party there, Increase it too, there is one Brennoralt Men call him gallant, but a discontent, My cousin, the King has used him ill, Him a handsome whisper will draw, The afternoon shall perfect What we have loosely now resolved. Iph. If in discourse of beauty, So large an Empire, I do wander, It will become your goodness Madam To set me right; And in a Country where yourself is Queen, Not suffer foreigners to lose themselves, Gen. What making revenges Palatine, And taking prisoners fair ladies' hearts. Iph. Yes my Lord, And have no better fortune in this war Then in the other, for while I think to take I am surprised myself. Fran. Dissembler, would thou wert. Min. You are a Courtier my Lord, The Palatine of Ptoceus Will grace the Hymeneals And that they may be whilst his stay is here, I'll Court my Lord in absence. Take of you the little strangeness Virgins must wear at first. Iphigenea swoons. Look to the Palatine. Mir. How is't my dearest Iphigene. Iph. Not well, I would retire. Gen. A qualm. Mor. His colour stole away, sunk down, As water in a weatherglass Pressed by a warm hand. Min. A Cordial of kind looks from the King, Let us withdraw and hear him. Exeunt. Enter Brennoralt, Doran, Raguelin. Dor. Yet to be married? What? are you mute now? Bren. Thou cam'st too hastily upon me, Putst too close the colours to my eye, I could not see! it is impossible. Dor. Impossible! It were impossible it should be otherwise; What can you imagine there of constancy? Where 'tis so much their nature to love change, That when they say, but what they are, They excuse themselves for what they do. Bre. she hardly knows him yet in such an instant. Dor. O you know not how fire flies, When it doth catch light matter, woman. Bren. No more of that, she's yet the preciousest thing in all my thoughts, I if it be so, I am a lost thing in the world, Doran. Dor. How. Br. Thou wilt in vain persuade me to be other, Life which to others is a good that they enjoy, To me will be an evil I shall suffer. Do, Look on another face, that's present remedy. Br. How ill thou dost conclude, Cause there are pestilent airs which kill men suddenly In health; must there be sovereign As suddenly to cure in sickness? Exit. Enter Aper hastily. It never was in nature. I was a fool to think Death only kept the doors of ill paid Loan, When or disdain, or spite Could let me out as well. Dor. Right, were I as you It should trouble me no more To free myself of Love, Than to spit out that which made me sick. Bren. I'll tell her so, that she may laugh at me, As at a prisoner threatening his Guard, He will break loose, and so is made the Faster, She has charms Doran, Can fetch in a rebellious heart, Even while it is conspiring liberty, O, she has all the virtues of her sex And not the vices, Chaste and unsullied, As first opening Lilies Or untouched buds. Dor. Chaste, why d''ee honour me Because I throw myself not off a precipice? 'tis her ruin to be otherwise, Though we blame those that kill themselves, We praise not him, that keeps himself alive That deserves nothing. Bren. And 'tis the least, She triumphs when she does not appear: I have as many rivals as beholders. Dor. All that increases but our jealousies, If you have now such qualms for that you have not; What will you have, for that you shall possess? Bren. dull Heretic, know I have these Because I have not her, When I have her, I shall have these no more: Her fancy now; Her virtue then will govern, And as I watch with doubtful eye The wavering needle in the best sundial Till it has settled, than the troubles o'er, Because I know when it is fixed, it's true, So here my doubts are all afore me! Sure Doran, crowned conquerors are But the types of Lovers, which enjoy and really possess What t'other have in dreams. I'll send a challenge to him. Dor. Do and be thought a madman, To what purpose? If she Love him, she will but hate you more, Lovers in favour Brennoralt are gamesters, In good fortune, the more you set them, The more they get. Bren. I'll see her then this night, By heaven I will. Dor. Where! in the citadel. Bren. Know what, and why? Dor. He raves: Brennoralt. Bren. Let me alone, I conjure thee by the discretion Left betwixt us; that's thine, For mine's divorced by injury of fortune: Leave me to myself. Dor. I have done. Bren. Is there such a passage As thou hast told me of into the Castle? Ra. There is my Lord. Bren. And dar'st thou let me in; Ra. If you my Lord dare venture. Bren. There are no sentries near it. Ra. None. Bren. How to the Chamber afterwards? Ra. Her woman. Bren. what's she? Ra. A wicket to my Lady's secrets, One that stands up to marriage with me. Bren. There, upon thy life be secret. flings him a purse, Ra. Else all punishments due to ingratitude. Bren. Enough: I am a storm within, till I am there, O Doran, That that, which is so pleasant to behold, Should be such pain within. Dor. Poor Brennoralt; Thou art still the Martyr of a thousand Tyrants; Love, honour, and ambition, reign by turns, And show their power upon thee. Bren. Why let them; I am still Brennoralt, Even Kings themselves are by their Servants ruled sometimes, Let their own slaves govern at odd hours, Yet not subject their person or their powers. Exeunt. Actus Tertius. Enter Iphigene as in a Garden. Iph: WHat have I got by changing place, But as a wretch which ventures to the wars, Seeking the misery with pain abroad, He found, but wisely thought, And had left at home— weeps, Fortune thou hast no Tyranny, Beyond this usage, Would I had never hoped, Or had betimes despaired, Let never in the gentle thief, Or kept him but a guest, Not made him Lord at all. Thus as my storms of grief, Carry my tears which should relieve my heart, Have hurried to the thankless Ocean clouds, And showers which needed not at all the courtesy When the poor plains have languished, For the want and almost burst asunder, I'll have this statues place, and undertake, At my own charge, to keep the water full. Enter Francelia. Fran. These fond impressions grow too strong upon me; They were at first without design or end Like the first Elements, that knows not what, And why they act, & yet produce strange things, Poor innocent desires, journeying they know Not whither, but now they promise to themselves Strange things, grow insolent, threaten no rest, Till they be satisfied. What difference was between these Lords? The one made love as if he by assault, Would take my heart, so forced it to defence, While tother blew it up with secret mines, And left no place for it, here he is; Tears steal too from his eyes, As if, not daring to be known, To pass that way, make it good cunning grief; Thou knew'st thou couldst not dress thyself, (Iphigene spies Francelia In any other looks, to make thee lovely. Iph. Francelia, If through the ignorance of places, I have intruded on your privacies, Found out forbidden paths, 'Tis fit you pardon Madam. For 'tis my melancholy, not I offends. Fran. So great a melancholy would well become. Mischances, such as time cannot repair, Those of the war, are but the petty Cures, of every coming hour. Iph. Why should I not now tell her all since 'tis in her, To save my life, who knows but she may be Gallant so far, as to undo herself, To make another happy? Madam, the accidents of war, Contribute least to my sad thoughts, If any such I have; Imprisonment can never be Where the place holds what we more love, And yet, Fran. My Lord. Iph. In this imprisonment. Fran. Proceed my Lord. Iph. I dare not Madam. Fran. I see I do disturb you, and enter upon your secrets, Which when I know, I cannot serve you in. Iph. Oh, most of any, You are the cause of all, Fran. I my Lord. Iph. You Madam, you alone, Fran. Alas, that 'tis too, soon to understand, Iph. Must not you marry Almerin? Fran. They tell me, 'tis designed, Iph. If he have you, I am for ever lost. Fran. Lost? the heavens forbid they should design so ill. Or when they shall, that I should be the cause. Iph. Ha, her eyes are strangely kind, She prompts me excellently, Stars be propitious, and I am safer, Away: I'll not expect it. Fran. His passion labours for vent. Iph. Is there a hope you will not give yourself, To Almerin? Fran. My Lord this air is common, The walks within are pleasanter. Iph Invitation. God of desire be kind, And fill me now with languages, Such as thou lendest thy favourites, When thou wouldst give them easy victory, And I forgive thee all thy cruelties. (Exeunt. Enter Palatine of Trock, Mensae. Almerin. Brennoralt, Lords. Min. Consider too. That those who are so necessitated to use violence, Have first been violent by necessity, Pal. But still you judge not right of the prerogative, For oft it stands with power and law, As with our faith and reason; It is not still against, that is above my Lord. Second Lord. You had of all least reason, For would the King be unjust he cannot, Where there's so little to be had. Alm. Where there is least, there's liberty my Lord; And 'tis more injury to pull hairs From the bald, then from the bushy heads. (Exe. talking. Trock pulls Brennoralt. Pal. Brennoralt, a word, My Lord the world has cast its eye upon you, And marked you out one of the foremost men. You've buried Fame the earliest of any, And send her still on errands; Much of the bravery of the Nation, Has taken up its lodging in you, And gallant men but copy from you. Bren. 'tis goodly language this; what would it mean? Pal. The Lithuanians wish you well, and wonder, So much desert should be so ill rewarded. Bren. Good. Pal. While all the gifts the crown is master of Are placed upon the Empire. Bren. Still I take you not. Pal. Then to be plain, Our Army would be proud of you, Pay the neglected scores of merit double, All that you hold here of command, and what, Your fortune in this Sigismond has suffered, Repaired, and make it fairer than it was at first. Bren. How? That nothing Lord trifle below ill language, How came it in thy heart to tempt my honour? Pal. My Lord. Bren. Dost think cause I am angry, With the King and state sometimes, I am fallen out with virtue and myself, Draw, draw or by goodness. Pal. What means your Lordship? Bren. Draw, I say, He that would think me villain is one And I do wear this toy to purge the world Of such, they've saved thee, Enter King Lords, Melid. Miessa, they kiss the king's hand. Were't thou good natured thou wouldst Love a King the better during life, King. If they be just. They call for gracious answers, Speedy howe'er we promise, All. Long live great 〈◊〉, Bren. The 〈◊〉 Sir, are of the wilder sort of creatures, Must be rid with harsh curbs, and since the war Can only make them tried, what can be used but Swords? where men have fall'n, From not respecting Royalty, Unto a liberty of offending it; What though their numbers equals yours Sir? And now forced by necessity, Like cuts in narrow rooms, They fly upon your face: Think you rebellion and loyalty, Are empty names, and that in subjects' hearts, They give not both and take away the courage; Shall we believe there is no difference, In good, and bad? no punishment, Nor no protection? forbid it heaven, If when great Poland's honour, safety too Hangs in dispute, we should not draw our swords, Why were we ever taught to wear them Sir? Mies, This late commotion in your kingdom's Sir, Is like a growing wen upon the face, Which as we cannot look on without trouble So take't away we cannot, without danger, War there has foulest face, and I Must fear it, where the pretext is fairest. Religion, and Liberty, Most specious names, Which like the bills of subtle Mountebanks, Filled with great promises of Curing all; Though by the wise passed by unread, as common cozenage, Yet by th'unknowing multitude, They're still admired and flocked to. King. Is there no way to disabuse them? Mel. A I's now too late, the vulgar in religion are Like unknown lands, And those that first possess them, have them. Then (Sir) consider, justness of cause is nothing, When things is risen to the point they are? 'Tis either not examined or believed Amongst the world. The better cause the Grecians had of old, Yet were the Gods themselves divided in it, And the foul Ravisher found as good protection, As the much injured husband. Nor are you (Sir) assured of all behind you, For though your person in the subjects' hearts, Stands highly honoured and beloved, Yet are there certain Acts of state, Which men call grievances abroad. And though they bore them in the times of peace, Yet will they now perchance think to be free, And throw them off for Sir The Common people are much like the Sea, Which suffers things to fall, And sink unto the bottom in a calm, Which in a storm, Stirred and enraged it lifts, and doth keep up. Then time, Distempers cures, more safely (Sir) then physic, Or instant letting blood; Religion now Is a young mistress there, for which each man will fight And die at least; Let it alone a while, And 'twill become a kind of married wife, People will be content to live with it, In quietness, if that at least may be, My voice is therefore (Sir) for peace. Mies. Were Sir the question simply war or peace, It were no more than shortly to be asked, whether we would be well or ill, Since war, the sickness of a kingdom is, And peace the Health: But here I do conceive, 'Twill rather be, whether we had not better Endure sharp sickness for a time, t'enjoy A perfect strength, then have it languish on us; For peace and war, is an incestuous line, Have still begot each other; Those men that highly now have broke all laws, (The great one only 'tis twixt man and man, What safety can they promise? though they give it; Will they not still suspect, and justly too, That all those bonds should be Broken again to them; so being still in fears, And jealousies themselves, they must infect The people, for in such a case, The private safety is a public trouble, Nor will they ever want pretext, Since he that will Maintain it with his Sword he's injured, May say't at any time: Then (Sir) as terrible as war appears, My vote is for't, nor shall I ever care, How ugly my Physicians shall be, So he can do the cure, Lord. In entering Physic, I think Sir none so much considers The doctor's face, as his own body, To keep on foot the war, with all the wants, Is to let blood, and take strong potions, In dangerous sickness. King. I see a wonder not to find my Lords, This difference in opinion, the subject's large, Nor can we there too much dispute, where, when We err 'tis at a kingdom's charge, Peace and war are in themselves indifferent, And time doth stamp them, either good or bad, But here the place, is much considerable, War in our own. Is like to heat within, it makes the body sick, When in another country 'tis but exercise, Conveys that heat abroad, and gives it health, To that I bend my thoughts, But leave it to our greater counsels, Which we now assemble: Mean time exchange of prisoners only we assent to, Lord. Nothing of Truces Sir. King. No: We will not take up quiet at interest, Perfect peace or nothing, Cessations for short times in war, Are like small fits of health, In dangerous sickness, Which while the instant pain seems to abate, Flatters us in debauch and worse estate. (Exeunt. Enter Iphigene as leading to his chamber, Francelia, Servant with lights. Morat, and another Soldier. Iph. I have not left myself a fair retreat, And must be now either the blessed object, Of your love, or subject of your scorn. Fran. I fear some treachery, And that my eyes have given intelligence; Unless you know there would be weak defence, You durst not think of taking in a heart, As soon as you sit down before it. Iph. Condemn my love, not of such fond ambition, It aims not at a conquest, but Francelia. (whisper. Mor. They're very great in this short time. Sol. 'tis ever so. Young and handsome, Have made acquaintance in nature, So when they meet, they have the less to do, It is for age or ugliness to make approaches, Or keep a distance. Iph. When I shall see, other perfection, Which at the best will be but other vanity, not more, I shall not love it. Fran. 'tis still one step, not to despair my Lord. Exeunt Iphigene, Francelia, Servants. Mor. Dost think he would fight? Sol. Troth it may be not, Nature in those fine pieces doth as painters. Hangs out a pleasant excellence That takes the eye, which is indeed But a course canvas in the naked truth, Or some slight stuff. Mor. I have a great mind to taste him. Sol. Fie a prisoner. Mor. By this hand, if I thought he courted my Colonels Mistress in earnest. Enter Iphigene. Woman after. Wo. My Lord, my Lord, My Lady thinks the jessamine walks Will be finer, the freshness Of the morning takes off the strength O'th' heat she says. Iph. 'tis well. Mor. Mew, does it so? I suspect vildly, we'll follow him, and see it he be So far qualified towards a Soldier As to drink a— in's Chamber. Exeunt. Raguelin pulls woman back. Ra. Where are those Keys? Wom. Hark ye, I dare not do't. Ra. How! Wom. My Lady will find. Ra. Scruples. Are my hopes your fears? There was no other way I should be any thing In this loud world— and now, 'Sfoot I know she longs to see him too. Wo. Does she? Ra. Dost think he would desire it else. Wo. ay but. Ra. Why let me secure it all, I'll say I found the Keys, or stole them, come. Wo. Well if you ruin all now, Here, These enter the garden from the works, That the privy walks, and that the backstairs, Than you know my Chamber. Ra. Yes I know your Chamber. Exeunt. Enter Brennoralt. Bren. He comes not, One wise thought more, and I return, I cannot in this art separate the foolish From the bold so far, but still it tastes O'th' rash. Why let it taste, it tastes of love too, And to all actions't gives a pretty relish that. Enter Raquelin. Ra. My Lord. Bren. Oh here! Ra. 'Sfoot you're upon our sentries More on this hand. Exeunt. Enter again. Bren. Why are there here no guard? Ra. There needs none, You presently must pass a place Whereon's an army in defence, It is so steep and straight. Bren. 'tis well. Ra. These are the steps of danger, Look to your way my Lord. Francelia as in bed, he draws the Curtains. Bren. I do not find such difficulties, Wait me thereabouts. So misers look upon their Gold, Which while they joy to see, they fear to lose The pleasure of the sight scarce equalling The jealousy of being dispossessed by others, Her face is like the milky way i'th' Sky, A meeting of gentle lights without name, Heavens, shall this fresh ornament of the world This precious Loveliness, Pass with other common things Among the wastes of time? What pity 'twere! she wakes. Fan. Bless me, It is a vision, or Brennoralt. Bren. Brennoralt, Lady. Fran. Brennoralt, ignorance guard me What is't you've done my Lord? Bren. Alas, I were but in too good estate, If I knew what I did. But why ask you Madam? Fran. It much amazes me to think, How you came hither And what could bring you too in danger thus, My honour, and your own life Nothing but saving of my brother. Could make me now preserve you. Bren. Reproach me not, the follies you yourself Make me commit, I am reduced to such extremity That love himself, high tyrant as he is, If he could see, would pity me. Fran. I understand you not. Bren. Would Heaven you did, for 'tis a pain to tell you. I come to accuse you of injustice Madam, You first begot my passion, And was content (at least you seem so) That it should live, Yet since never would contribute unto it Nor look upon it: as if you had desired It's being for no other end, But for the pleasure of its ruin. Fran. Why do you labour that to make me guilty of An injury to you, which when it is one, All mankind is alike engaged, And must have quarrel to me. Br. I have done ill, you chide me justly Madam, I'll lay it not on you, but on my wretched self. For I am taught that Heavenly bodies Are not malicious in their influence, But by the disposition of the subject. They tell me you must marry Almerin, Sure such excellency ought to be The recompense of virtue Not the sacrifice of parents wisdom, Should it not Madam? Fran. 'Twould injure me, Were it thought otherwise. Bren. And shall he have you then That knew you yesterday? Is there in martyrdom no juster way But this, that holds a finger in the fire A little time? should the Crown from them That have endured the flame with constancy Fran. If the discovery will ease your thoughts my Lord, Know Almerin is the man I never saw. Bren. You do not marry then, condemned man Thus hear, and thus receive reprieves. One question more, and I am gone. Is there to Latitude of eternity A hope for Brennoralt. Fran. My Lord. Bren. Have I place at all when you do think of men? Fran. My Lord, a high one, I must be singular: did I not value you? The world doth set great rates upon you, And you have first deserved them. Bren. Is this all? Fran. All. Bren. O be less kind or kinder, Give me more pity, or more cruelty Francelia, I cannot live without this, nor die. Fran. I fear my Lord, You must not hope beyond it. Bren. Not hope? This is not sure the body to this soul, It was mistaken shuffled, in through haste: Why else should that have so much love, And this want love lines to make that Love Received— I will raise honour to a point Studies. It never was, Do things of such a victorious greatness: She shall love me, she shall. I will deserve her, though I have her not, there's something yet in that. Madam willit please you pardon my offence, Oh fates that I must call thus my affections. Fra. I will do any thing, so you will think of me And of yourself my Lord, and how your stay Endangers both. Bren. Alas your pardon is more necessary to my selfe Than life's to me, but I am gone Blessing such as my wishes for you in Their ecstasies could never reach, fall on you, May every thing contribute to preserve Your excellence (my destruction) Great as the torments I have in it. Exeunt. Actus Quartus. Enter Brennoralt. Bren. WHy so 'tis well: fortune I think thee still, I dare not call thee villain neither, 'Twas plotted from the first: That's certain, it looks that way: Hum catched in a trap. here's something yet to trust to, (to his Sword This was the entry, these the stairs, But whither afterward? He that is sure to perish on the Land May quit the nicety of card and compass, And safe to his discretion put to Sea, He shall have my hand to't. Exit. Enter Raguelin, Orillia, the waiting Woman. Ra. Look, by this light 'tis day. Oril. Not by this, by tother 'tis indeed. Ra. Thou art such another piece of temptation. My Lord raves by this time. An hundred to one the sentinels will discover Us too, then do I pay for night-watch. Oril. Fie upon thee, thou art as fearful as a Young Colt, boilest at every thing, fool, as If Lovers considered hours, I'll peep in. she peeps. Ra. I am as weary of this wench As if I were married to her, She hangs upon me like an ape upon a Horse, she's as common too, as a barber's Glass, Conscienced like a didapper. Oril. Raguelin, there is nobody within My Lady sleeps this hour at least. Ra. Good, the Devils even with me, Not be an honest man neither, What course now? Exeunt. Enter Brennoralt and a Guard. Sol. Nay sir we shall order you. Bren. Dogs. Enter Fresolin. Fre. What tumult's this? ha Brennoralt, 'tis he in spite of his disguise, What makes he here? he's lost for ever if he discovered: How now companions, why do you use My friend thus Sol. Your friend my Lord, if he be your friend, H'has used us as ill, H'has played the devil among us, Six of our men has Surgeons work this month, We found him climbing of the wall. 2. Sol. He had no word neither, Nor any Language but a blow. Fr. You will be doing these wild things my Lord. Good faith you're too blame, if you'd desired To view the walls or trenches, 'twas but Speaking, we are not nice, I would myself had waited on you. They're the new outworks you would see perchance, My Lord, we'll take the nearer way, and Privater, here through the sally port. Bren. What the devil's this sure I dream? Exeunt. Sol. Nay you're so officious. manent Soldiers. 2. Sol. Death, could I guess he was a friend? Sol. 'Twas ever to be thought so, How could he come there else? 2. Sol. Friend, or no friend he might have Left us something to pay the Surgeon with. Grant me that, or I'll beat you to him. Exeunt. Enter Fresolin, Brennoralt. Fre. Brennoralt, start not, I pay thee back a life I owe thee, And bless my stars they gave me power to do, The debt lay heavy on me, A Horse waits you there, a trumpet too Which you may keep lest he should prate, No ceremony, 'tis dangerous. Bren. Thou hast astonished me. Thy youth has triumphed in one single act O' eal the age can boast, and I will stay To tell thee so, were they now firing All their Cannons on me, Farewell gallant Fresolin And may reward great as thy virtue crown thee. Exe. Enter Iphigene, Francelia. Fran. A peace will come, And than thou must be gone, And whither? when you are once got upon the wing, You will not stoop to what shall rise Before ye, fly to some lure With more temptation garnished. Iph. Can you have doubts, and I have not my fears? By this the readiest, & the sweetest oath I swear, Kisses. I cannot so secure myself of you, But in my absence, I shall be in pain, I have cast up what it will be to stand The governor's anger, and which is more hard, The love of Almerin. I hold thee now, but by thy own free grant, A slight security; alas it may fall out Giving thyself, not knowing thine own worth, Or want of mine, thou may'st like one deceived Resume the gift on better knowledge back. Fran. If I so easily change, I was Not worth your love, And by that loss you'll gain. Iph. But when you're irrecoverably gone, 'Twill be slight comfort to persuade myself You had a fault, when all that fault must be, But want of love to me, and that again, Find in my much defect, so much excuse, That it will have no worse name Than indiscretion, if I inconcerned do Cast it up.— I must have more assurance. Fran. You have too much already, And sure my Lord, you wonder while I blush At such a growth in young perfections. Iph. Why should I wonder Madam? Love that from two breasts sucks, a giant. Must of a child quickly. Dunces in love stay at the Alphabet, The inspired know all before, And do begin still higher. (Enter woman. Wom. Madam, Almerin returned has sent to kiss Your hand; I told him you were busy. Fran. Must I my Lord be busy? I may be civil, though not kind, Tell him I wait him in the gallery. Iph. May I not kiss your hands this night? Fran. The world is full of jealous eyes my Lord, And were they all locked up, you are a spy, Once entered in my chamber at strange hours. Iph. The virtue of Francelia is too safe, To need this little art of preservation, Thus to divide ourselves, is to distract ourselves, A Cherubin dispatches not on earth. The affairs of heaven, with greater innocence, Than I will visit; 'tis but to take a leave I beg. Fran. When you are going my Lord. Exeunt. Enter Almerin. Morat. Alm. Pish, thou liest, thou liest. I know he plays with womankind, Not loves it, thou art impertinent. Mort. 'tis the Camp talk my Lord. (Exeunt. Alm. The camp's an ass; let me hear no more on't. Enter Granivert, Villanor, Marinell. Gran. And shall we have peace? I am no sooner, but the state's so too. If't be, they will a truce for a month only; I long to refresh my eyes by this hand, They have been so tired, with looking upon faces, Of this Country. Vill. And shall not the Donnazella, To whom we do wish well a, Look babies again in our eyes. Gran. Ah, a sprightly girl about fifteen, That melts, when man but takes her by the hand, Eyes full and quick, with breath Sweet as double VIolets, And wholesome as dying strawberries, Thick silken eyebrows high upon the forehead, And cheeks mingled with pale streaks of red, Such as the blushing morning never wore. Vill. O my chops, my chops: Gran. With narrow mouth, small teeth, And lips swelling as if she pouted. Vill. Hold, hold, hold. (Marjoram. Gran. Hair coloured and curling like buds of Part tied in negligence, Part loosely flowing. Vill. Tyrant, tyrant, tyrant. Gran. In pink colour taffeta pettycoat, Laced smock sleeves dangling, This vision stolen from her own bed, And rustling in one's chamber. Vlll. Oh good Granivert, good Granivert. Gra. With a wax Candle in her hand. Looking as if she had lost her way, At twelve at night. Mar. Oh, any hour, any hour. Gran. Now I think on't by this hand, I'll marry, and be long lived. Vill. Long lived, how? Gra. Oh he that has a wife, eats with an appetite, Has a very good stomach to't first, This living at large is destructive, Variety is like rare sauces, Provokes too far, and draws on surfeits, Than the other. Enter Doran. Dor. So, Is this a time to fool in? Gra. what's the matter. Dor. Draw out your choice men, and away to Your Colonel immediately, there's work Towards my boys, there's work. Gra. Art in earnest. Dor. By this light. Gra. There's something in that yet. This Moiety were Twilight. Neither night nor day, Pox upon it. A storm is worth a thousand Of your Balm, There's more variety in it. Exeunt, Enter Almerin, Francelia, as talking earnestly. Alm. Madam, that shows the greatness of my passion. Fran. The Imperfections rather, jealousy's no better sign of love My Lord, than fevers are of life; These show there is a being, Though impaired and perishing, And that affection but sick and in disorder. I like it not? Your Servant. Exit. Alm. So short, and sour. The change is visible. (Enter Iphigene. Iphi. Dear Almerin Welcome, You have been absent long. Alm. Not very long. Iph. To me it has appeared so. What says our camp, am I not blamed there? Alm. They wonder. Iph. Whilst we smile. How have you found the King inclining? Alm. Well; the treaty is not broken, now holds it. Things are where they were, 'thas a kind of face of peace. You my Lord may when you please return. Iph. ay, Almerin. Alm. Yes my Lord, I'll give you an escape. Iph. 'Tis least to my desires. Alm. Hum: Iph. Such prisons are beyond all liberty. Alm. is't possible? Iph. Seems it strange to you? Alm. No, not at all? What, you find the Ladies kind? Iph. Civil— (smiles. Alm. You make love well too, they say my Lord. Iph. Pass my time. Alm. Address unto Francelia. Iph. Visit her. Alm. D''ee know 〈…〉 Iph. Ha. Alm. D'ee know she is my mistress? Iph. I have been told so. Alm. And do you court her then? Iph. Why; If I saw the enemy first, Would you not charge? Alm. He does allow it too, by heaven; Laughs at me too, Thou filcher of a heart, False as thy title to Francelia; Thy friendship with this I do throw by— (draws. Iph. What do you mean? Alm. I see the cunning now of all my love. Alm. Why thou cam'st so tamely kind, Suffering surprise; draw. Iph. I will not draw, kill me, And I shall have no trouble in my death, Knowing 'tis your pleasure, As I shall have no pleasure in my life, Knowing 'tis your pleasure. Alm. Oh poor, I looked 'for this, I knew thou wouldst find 'thas easier to do A wrong, then justify it, but. Iph. I will not, first hear me. If I love you not, more than I love her, If I love her more than for your sake, Heaven strangely punish me. Alm. Take heed how thou dost play with heaven. Iph. By all that's just, and fair, and good, By all that you hold dear, and I hold great, I never had lascivious thought, or e'er Did action that might call in doubt, My love to Almerin. Alm. That tongue can charm me into any thing. I do believe it, prithee be wiser then, Give me no farther cause of jealousies, Hurt not my Honour more, and I am well. Iph. But well: of all our passions, How came it? nature made the worst, Foul jealousy her favourite, And if it be not so, Why took she care that every thing, Should give the monster nourishment, And left us nothing to destroy it with? Alm. Prithee no more; thou pleadest it cunningly I fear I shall be made the guilty, And need my pardon. Iph. If you could read my heart, you would: I will be gone too morrow, if that will satisfy, Indeed I shall not rest until my innocence, Be made as plain as objects to the sense. Alm. Come, you shall nor go, I'll think upon't no more, Distrust ruins not friendship, But builds it fairer than it was before. Exeunt. Enter Brennoralt. captains, Stratheman, Doran. Bren. No more but ten from every company, For hands are thieves, and rob the glory, While they take the share, How goes the night. Stra. Half spent my Lord, We shall have straight, The moon's weaker light. Bren. 'Tis time you call in the Officers; Friends; If ye were men that must be talked Into a courage, I had not chosen you. Danger with its vizard of before this time, You've looked upon, and have out faced it too. We are to do the trick again, that's all, Draws his sword. And yet we will not swear, For he that shrinks in such an action; Is damned without the help of perjury. Doran. if from the virgin tower, Thou spiest a flame, such as the East wind sends, Forth about the time the day shall break, Tell the King I hold the Castle for him, Bid him come on with all his force, And he shall find victory so cheap, 'Twill lose its value, If I fall, the world has lost a thing, It used not well, and a thing that cared not For that world. Stra. Lead on Colonel, If we do not fight like. Bren. No like, we'll be ourselves similitude. And time shall say, when it would tell That men did well they fought like us. Exeunt. Actus Quintus. Enter again. WHat made the stop? One in's falling sickness had a fit, Which choked the passages, but all's well, Softly, we are near the place. Exeunt. Alarum within fight, then Enter Almerin in his night Gowne. Alm. What noise is here tonight? Something on fire, What hoe, Send to the Virgin Tower, there is disorder, Thereabouts. Enter Soldier. Sol. All's lost, all's lost, The enemy's upon the place of Arms, And is by this time Master of that And of the Tower. Alm: Thou liest. (Strikes him.) Enter Morat. Mor. Save yourself my Lord, And haste unto the Camp, Ruin gets in on every side. Exit. Alm. There's something in't when this fellow Flies. villains my Arms. I'll see what devil reigns. Exit. Enter Iphigene, Francelia. Iph. Look, the day breaks. Fran. You think I'll be so kind, as swear, It does not now, indeed I will not. Iph. Will you not send me neither, Your picture when youare gone? That when my eye is famished for a look, It may have where to feed, And to the painted feast invite my heart. Fran. Here, take the Virgin bracelet of my hair, And if like other men thou shalt hereafter, Throw it with negligence, 'Mongst the Records of the weak female conquest, Laugh at the kind words, and mystical contrivement. If such a time shall come, Know I am sighing then thy absence Iphigene, And weeping o'er thy false, but pleasing Image. Enter Almerin. Alm. Francelia, Francelia, Rise, rise and save thyself, the enemy, That doth not know thy worth, may else destroy it. he throws open the door. Ha; mine eyes grow sick. A plague has through them stolen into my heart, And I grow dizzy, feet lead me off again, Without the knowledge of my body, I shall act, I know not what else. Exit. Fran. How came he in? Dear Iphigene, we are betrayed, Let's raise the Castle, lest he should return. Iph. That were to make all public, Fear not, I'll satisfy his anger, I can do it. Fran. Yes with some quarrel, And bring my honour, and my love in danger Enter Almerin. look he returns. And wrecks of fury, Like hurried clouds over the face of heaven, Before a tempest, in his looks appear. Alm. If they would question What our rage doth act, and make it sin, They would not thus provoke men. I am too tame. Here I denounce a war to all the world, And thus begin it. Runs at Iphigene. Iph. What hast thou done? falls. Fran. Ah me, help, help— Wounds her. Iph. Hold. Al. 'Tis too late. Iph. Rather than she shall suffer, My fond deceits involve th'innocent, I will discover all. Alm. Ha, what will he discover? Ip. That which shall make thee curse the blindness Of thy rage, I am a woman. Al, Ha, ha, ha, brave and bold. Because thy perjury deceived me once And saved thy life, thou thinkst to scape again, Imposture thus thou shalt. Runs at him. Iph. Oh hold, I have enough, Had I hope of life, Thou shouldst not have this secret. Alm. What will it be now? Iph. My Father having long desired A son to heir his great possessions, And in six births successively deceived, Made a rash vow, and O rash vows are punished, That if the brethren my mother went with Proved not a male, he ne'er would know her more, Then was unhappy Iphigene brought forth, And by the women's kindness made a boy, And since so bred, A cruel pity as it has fall'n out, If now thou findst that which thou thoughtst A friendship in me, love forget it, It was my joy and death.— Faints. Alm. For curiosity I'll save thee if I can, Know the end, if't be but loss of blood, Breasts; by all that's good, a woman. Iphigene. Iph. I thank thee, For I was fall'n asleep before I had dispatched, Sweetest of all thy Sex, Francelia Forgive me now, my love unto this man And fear to lose him, taught me a fatal cunning, Made me court you, and my own destruction. Fran. I am amazed. Alm. Can it be! O mockery of Heaven, To let me see what my soul often wished, And make't my punishment, A punishment that were I old in sins, Were yet too great. Iph. Would you have loved me then? Pray you say would, For I like tasty sickmen at their death Would know no news but health From the physician. Alm. Canst thou doubt that? That haste so often seen me ecstasied When thou were't dressed like woman, Unwilling ever to believe thee man. Iph. I have enough. Alm. Heavens. What thing shall I appear unto the world? Here my ignorance might have some excuse, But there, I was distract. None but a man enraged with anger To a savageness, would e'er have drawn A sword upon such gentle softness, Be kind, and kill me, one of you: Kill me, if't be but to preserve my wits, Dearest Iphigene take thy revenge. It will not misbecome thy sex at all, 'tis act of pity, not of cruelty, To dispatch a miserable man. Fran. And thou wouldst be more miserable yet, While like a bird made prisoner by itself, Thou beat'st thyself 'gainst every thing, And vexed, pass by that, which should let thee out. Alm. Is it my fault, or Heavens! For time while she would play upon me, Like ill musicians wound me up so high, That I must crack sooner than move in tune. Fran. Still you rave, while we For want of present help may perish. Alm. Right, a Surgeon, I'll find one instantly, The enemies at hand too I had forgot, Oh what fatality governed this night! Exit. Fr. How like an unthrifts case will mine be now? For all the wealth he loses, Shifts but the place, and still the world Enjoys it, so will it you Sweet Iphigene, though I possess you not. Iph. What excellency of nature's this? Have you so perfectly forgiven already, As to consider me a loss; I am in doubt what sex I should Be happier in: climates of friendship Are not less pleasant, 'cause they are Less scorching with those of Love; And under them we'll Live, Such precious links of that shall tie Our souls together, that the chains of tother Shall be gross fetters to it. Fren. I fear I cannot stay the making, Oh, would you had never undeceived me, For I had died with pleasure, Believing I had been your Martyr now: Iph. She looks pale, Francelia. Fran. I cannot stay, A hasty summons hurries me away And gives.— no— (dies) Iph. she's gone, she's gone, life like a dial's hand A noise within) Stole from the fair figure ere it was perceived, What will become of me? she thinks 'tis Almerin Too too late you're come, You may persuade wild birds that wing the air Enter Soldiers Into a cage, as soon as call her wand'ring spirits back, Ha these strange faces! Horror is in them, if I stay I shall be taken for the murderer, Oh in what straits they move, That wander twixt the fears of death, and hopes of Love. (Exit. Bren. Forbear upon your lives the place, There dwells Divinity in it, all else The Castle holds is lawful prize Your valour's wages, this I claim as mine, Guard you the door. Gra. Colonel, shall you use all the women yourself? Bren. Away 'tis unreasonable. Draws the Curtain. Awake fair Saint, and bless thy poor idolator, Ha, pale, and cold, dead! The sweetest guest fled, murdered by Heaven, The purple streams not dry yet. Some villain has broke in before me, robbed all my hopes, but I will find him out, And kick his soul to hell I'll do't (Dragging out Iphigene. Speak. Iph. What should I say? Bren. Speak, or by all. Iphi Alas, I do confess myself the unfortunate cause. Bren. O do you so, Hadst thou been cause of all the plagues That vex mankind, thou'dst been an innocent To what thou art, thou shalt not think repentance. Kills Her. Iph. O thou wert too sudden, and— Dies. Bren. Was I so? The lustful youth would sure have spoilt Her honour, which finding highly guarded Rage or fear to be revealed, counselled This villain, is there no more of them? Exit. Enter Almerin. Not Enter, Yes dog through thee, ha' a course laid out Instead of Iphigene, Francelia dead too, Where shall I begin to curse? Enter Brennoralt. Bren. Here if he were thy friend. Alm. Brennoralt. A gallant sword could never have come in better time. Bren. I have a good one for thee If that will serve thy turn. Alm. I long to try it. That fight doth make me desperate, Sick of myself, and of the world. Bren. Didst value him? A greater villain did I never kill. Alm. Kill. Bren. Yes. Alm. are 't sure of it? Bren. May be I do not wake. Alm. thou'st taken then a guilt off from me, Would have weighed down my sword, Weakened me to love resistance, I should have made no sport, Hadst thou concealed it, Know Brennoralt thy Sword is stained in Excellence, great, as the world can boast. Bren. Ha, ha, how thart abused, Look there, there lies the excellence Thou speakst of, murdered by him too, He did confess he was the cause. Alm. O innocence ill understood, and much swore used, She was alas by accident, but I, I was the cause indeed. Bre. I will believe thee too, and kill thee, Destroy all causes till I make a stop In nature. Alm. briefly then: The title of a Kingdom is a trifle To our quarrel, sir know by sad mistake I killed thy Mistress Brennoralt, and thou killed'st mine. Bren. Thine? Alm. Yes that Iphigene Tho shown as man unto the world, Was woman, excellent woman. Bren. I understand no riddles guard thee. Fight & pause. Alm. O could they now look down, And see how we two strive, Which first should give revenge, They would forgive us something of the crime. Hold prithee give me leave, To satisfy a curiosity, I never kissed my Iphigene as woman. Bren. Thou motion'st well, nor have I taken leave— Rising it keeps a sweetness yet, As stills from Roses when the flowers are gone. Alm. So have two fainting pilgrims scorched with heat Unto some neighbour fountain steps aside. Kneel first, then laid their warm lips To the Nymph, and from her coldness Took fresh life again, as we do now. Bren. Let's on our journey if thou art refreshed. Alm. Come, and if there be a place reserved For heightened spirits better than other, May that which wearies first of ours have it. Fight a good while. Almerin falls. Bren. If I weary, laugh at me, that's all. Alm. Brave souls above, Which will be sure inquisitive For news from earth, shall yet no other, But that thouart brave. Enter King, Lords Strathman, Minse, Stra. To preserve some Ladies as we guest. King. Still gallant. Brennoralt, thy sword not sheathed yet; Busy still? Bren. Revenging Sir, The foulest murder ever blasted ears, Committed here by Almerin, and Iphigene, Alm. False, false. The first created purity was not. More innocent than Iphigene. Bren. Lives he again? Alm. Stay thou much wearyed guest, Till I have thrown amongst them, We shall look black else to posterity. King. What says he? Lord. Something concerning this he labours to discover. Alm. Know 'twas I, who killed Francelia, I alone. Minse. O Barbarous return of my civilities, Was it thy hand? Alm. Hear and forgive me Minse. Entering this morning hastily With resolution to preserve, The fair Francelia, I found a thief, Stealing the treasure which I thought Belonged to me, wild in my mind, And ruined in my honour in much mistaken rage I wounded both, then O too late I found. My error: found Iphigene a woman, Acting stolen love, to make my own safe. And all my jealousies impossible, Whilst I run out to bring them cure. Francelia dies, and Iphigene found here, I can no more— (dies. King. More strange, and intricate, Iphigene a woman. Melid. With this story I am guiltily acquainted, The first concealments since her love, And all the ways to it I have been trusted with. But sir my grief joined with the instant business, Begs a deferment. King. I am amazed till I do hear it out, But in the mean time. Lest in these mists. merit should lose itself, Those forfeitures of Trock and Minse, Brennoralt are thine. Bren. 'tis princely gift, but Sir it comes too late, Like sunbeams on the blasted blossoms, Your favours fall; you should have given Me this, when't might have raised, Me in men's thoughts, and made me equal, To francelia's love; I have no end, Since she's not: Back to my private life. I will return. King. This melancholy june man cure. Come take the bodies up, and lead the prisoners on. Triumph and Funeral must walk together. Cypress, and Laurel turned make up one chaplet, For we have got the day. But bought it at so dear a rate, that victory itself's unfortunate. FINIS.