The Life of Mother Shipton.  
A NEW Comedy.  
As it was Acted Nineteen days together with great Applause.  Folia Ampla Sybillae Virg. 
Written by T. T.  
LONDON, Printed by and for Peter Lillicrap, and are to be sold by T. Passenger the three Bibles on London Bridge. 1610.   

The Actors Names.  

Pluto The King of Hell  
Radamon A chief Spirit  
Four other Devils  
The Ab. of Beverly  
Hairbrain A wild Gallant  
Swagger His Companion  
A Captain  
Mr. Shiftwell A Pander  
Mr. Moneylack His Companion  
Sr. Oliver Whorehound An old Lecher  
David His man  
Roger His wife's man  
Sir. Ol. Whorehounds wife going by the name of Lovefree  
Mr. Scrape a Usurer  
Mother Shipton  
Abigail her Maid  
Maria Shiftwels sister  
Priscilla a Whore  
Prue a Bawd  
Shiftwels wife  
And two whores   
The Scenes.  
The City of York. OR Nasebrough Grove in Yorkshire.   

The Prologue.  
PRologues are grown so plenty, yet so dear  
Our author choosed to have no prologue here,  
His is an invitation to a feast  
He hopes your stomaches will not ill digest,  
Yet be not over curious, since he has spent  
As much as on his Credit could be lent;  
He's not a Poet yet upon his blessing  
Has charged the Cooks be careful in the dressing.  
Expect no choice of dainties of the prime;  
As at the Temple at a reading time,  
Or that our young Cooks are experienced so  
They can please every : this we know  
They may in time, then in the mean while  
Grace their endeavours with a courteous smile,  
To th' Author and the Actors too prove free,  
Spare not for claps and first begin with me.  
Exeunt.   

The Life of Mother Shipton.  

Act the First,  

Scene the First.  Shipton sitting by a River's side, and Radamon a Devil a part. Ship. 
MIserable Shipton in what a poor condition has it pleased the powers to place thee! sure all the Eyes of Happiness did look a Squint at my Nativity, and all the Destinies combined to wrap me up in endless poverty.  Di. 
This is excellent her low condition does lay the foundation for my siege, I'll listen to what follows.  Ship. 
How pleasant and thrice happy is the fortune of other Mortals, how bravely do they live and enjoy themselves and their estates! How like petty deities are they seated in their palaces! and to such poor Cottage bred Creatures as myself extend their generous Hospitality! how nobly do they pass over their lives and with odours and perfumes enter their earthly graves, whose fame is still surviving by their Princely Pedigree? why was not this my lot poor miserable Shipton▪  Di. 
Better, better yet, she is ambitious, and I am half confident she is my own.  Ship. 
What pleasant life have I? forlorn desolation? What estate or subsistence? The Alms of the Parish? What Grave but a Ditch? And for my pedigree can only boast of poverty? I was wretched by my Parent's indigency, and by their death in my Minority, thrice, thrice more Miserable! Am I not flesh and blood? Has not Nature bestowed on me the like perfections, each Mortal now can boast off? Why am I so low then when others are so high? Why do I court the ground when others in their glorious pinnacles grasp the sky? Well hence forth will I scorn their Alms and gifts of Charity.  

Directly or indirectly I will find a way,  
To make me rich in Pride and Money too, but stay.   pauses. Di. 
Do, do mount higher in ambition yet and then,  
Thou'lt fall so low, thou ne'er shall rise again.  Ship. 
I am too presumptuous and do offend these powers we are bound in the strictest obligations to obey: No be content in time thou wilt see Heaven will give thee more felicity.  Di. 
Ha! This startles me does her ambition thaw, I'll to her  she too much reputes.  
Fair Maid, nay startle not, pardon me that I have been a gentle auditor to your sorry tale, yet think of me, as I seem to be; a Gentleman well descended, and not of so mean a spirit to divulge the least Syllable of what I have heard, but be as secret as the silent Air.  Ship. 
Sir your Carriage and discourse confirm you a Gentleman; and since you have over heard what I never intended to declare to any: My hope is in your promise: You will be Privy.  Di. 
I'll be thy bosom Cabinet, and since at first sight I see thou art meritorious: 'Tis in my power and I am willing to bring thee to advancement: Nay such honour as shall touch the height of those to whom thou hast been subservient, and spurn at those that hitherto have slighted thee.  Ship. 
Sir you promise fair.  Di. 
I'll perform fairer, Therefore to morrow morn at sun rising, under the broad Beech-tree, in Naes-borough Grove fail not to meet me.  Ship. 
Upon my Life I will not,  Di. 
Then thou shalt see, I'll find a means to  

Work thy content, and thereby,  
Transform thy sorrow to felicity   Ship. 
I thank you sir.  Di. 
Till than fair Maid farewell,  
This will be good news to the King of Hell.  Exit Radamon. Ship. 
This promise makes me proud, perform it & thou art noble  

The Parish Alms gifts and Cottages I'll scorn  
And no more walk in places so forlorn,  
To this Event ye powers grant success,  
The Sun must usher in my Happiness.   Exit.  

Scene the Second.  Enter Shiftwell and Moneylack. Mo. 
'TIs a mad life thou lead'st.  Shift. 
A merry life, the only life? I am like a man finding a Table furnished to his hand, as mine is still to me, prayers for the sounder, I thank him he has maintained my house this six years, not only keeps my wife, but me and all my family: I am at his Table, he puts me to nothing, no rent, nor Church duties, no not so much as the scavenger, the happiest state that ever man was born to: I walk out in a morning, come to breakfast, find excellent cheer, a good fire in winter, look in my coal house about Midsummer eve▪ five or six chaldrone new laid up▪ look in my back yard, I shall find a pile of faggots that over look the Church steeple, I say nothing to all this, but smile and gently pin the door again, when my wife lies Inn, as even now she's on the point of grunting, a Lady lies not like her, she has her Emboss, Embroidering, Spangle, and I know not what, her Sugar by whole loaves, her wine by Roundlets: I see these things but like a haypy man.  

I pay for none at all, yet fool's think't mine,  
I have the name, and in his Gold I shine.  
This charge the Knight has whilst I without any fear,  
Lie soft, sleep hard, drink wine, and eat good cheer.   
And then for want of my wife, have I a legion of Mistresses.  Mo. 
But prithee when dost expect Sir Oliver?  Shift. 
Why to morrow so his last letter said.  Mo. 
So then we may hope for a recruite.  Shift. 
Hope, we will command it, he must be liberal to me, but mum here comes David.  Enter David. 
How now David any news for me from Sir Oliver  Da. 
Yes, I have a Letter for you Sir.  Shift. 
He is in good health I hope.  Da. 
I hear nothing to the contrary, but I must bid you farewell Sir, business calls me away, otherwise Mr. Shiftwel you and I would not part so driely.  Shift. 
Farewell honest David  Exit David 
So now I'll open thee.  Reads. 
My dear Shiftwel.  Mo. 
That's lovingly.  Shift. 
O 'tis flattery I fear  
In the last you received from me, I told thee how speedy I would be in my return, both for the love I bear to my Lady and thyself, but since several businesses prohibit my intent, so that now I cannot be in town till the latter end of next week, but then I will be most liberal  Sir Oliver Whorehound. Mo. 
This does not make the old Proverb good, short and sweet, for this is short  Shift. 
But damnable sower.  Mo. 
Well poverty parts good company, so for the present farewell, next time we meet, I hope we shall be in a condition too far better.  Exit Moneylack. Shif. 
Fear not for I do live without regard,  
The pander needs must have a free reward,   

Scen. III.  Enter Mrs. Lovefree and Roger her man with a portmantle▪ Io. 
ROger earry the Portmantle to my Lodging, I'll follow presently.  Ro. 
I will forsooth.  Exit Roger. 
Ha' Noll, is it so i'faith has a young Mrs, restored a new fire into your decayed parts, I thought 'twas impossible for nature to broach another vessel of strength into thy withered veins, well if it be so, so let it be: when I lay by thy side thou tookest no care in the night but to mumble out thy prayer and Pater noster: many times when I have endeavoured to force a motion in thee, to give life to thy dead spirits alas! I was answered wiith hollow groans, and excuses of age? and to imagine the truth, I believe 'tis rather thy money then thy fortitude that quenches the appetite of that woman thou frequents for otherwise by experience I can tell her thirst would rather increase then her desire be satisfied: well I'll pay thee in thy Coin, I have not a face altogether contemptible, nor money for properties to preserve it from wrinkles, and I hope ere long this City will afford me a Gallant.  

Whorehound revenge is counted no disgrace.  
Cuckold thy horns will quickly bud apace,    

Scene IU.  Enter Pluto Proserpina and five Devils. Plu. 
MY brave spirits the world is now in distraction, confusion meets in every place, and will ere long involve itself into a second Chaos: now with all the hellish art you are masters of, scout about and make the consciences of men as black as Hell itself: mean while Allecto let it be your care to cherish our Traitors in the lower vault. Massanello that proud fisher boy that durst usurp so much disloyalty against his Prince, to raise forces against him and make his subjects most perfidious, the like to Matchavile that wheadling Traitor, Sinon that betrayed the noble Trojans, also to Hannibal the noblest Hellhound Hell can boast of, but who comes here.  Enter Radamon. Al. 
Great Prince 'tis Radamon.  Plu. 
Now Radamon the news with thee.  Ra. 
Great prince the news I bring,  
Will make your Queen and all our Furies sing.  Plu. 
Declare it.  Ra. 
I have been with Shipton a poor Alms wench to whom as she was deploring her sad condition, I appeared apparelled like a very handsome Gentleman, gave her large promises, to make good which early this Morn, at Sunrising I am to meet her under the broad Beech tree in Na●sborough Grove.  

Then I do not doubt  
To make effectual what I have been about.   Plu. 
Well done Radamon thou art a providing Devil and does much for the Interest of our Kingdom, we thank thee for thy care and diligence.  

Come now let's revel and with such delight  
We'll spend the tedious minutes of this night.   [They Dance, dance ended] Plu. 
Now we'll go visit our Helveechans that have been  
Inrichers of our Kingdom by their sin.  Exeunt.  

Scene the Fifth.  Enter Shiftwell and Mr. Scrape severally. Shift. 
NOw for Moneylack he'll behold and bless himself, and with confidence swear i'm a limb of a Devil. How Scrape one of my old Usurers! Pox on his picture! Now do I quake as if I had had the standing Ague these seven years! yet perforce I must be courageous and speak to him: Mr. Scrape your obliged Servant Sir.  Scra. 
Mr. Shiftwel how have you done this long while, I can never have the happiness to see you at our end of the town.  Shift. 
No faith nor never shall Aside as long as I can keep at this.  
Why Sir, so and so, I make a heard shift to keep head and shouldders together.  Scra. 
Well but to put off this discourse, you and I must be a little more serious.  Shift. 
Now it gins to work.  Scra. 
You know Mr. Shiftwell, the times expired my money due, and your bond forfeited, and now what would you have me do? when I lent my money I appear an Angel, but now I call for it again I'll warrant you a very devil.  Shift. 
‛ Flesh! what shall I do with him? there's no way to set him going but Hectoring. Why Sir I can't help it, you must stay till I have it, you know like a Gentleman I pawned you my Land for the tenth part of the value, and now times are dead, no money stirring, 'tis a bard case, you must forbear longer or I shall grow very angry.  Scrap. 
Fret and spare not, I know no obligation lies upon me with my honey to feed drones, but in short my money I want, and my money I'll have, or it shall go hard with you.  Shif. 
Flesh how the Rogue rails Aside sure he has got some Bailiffs nigh; I see none: Looks out yet it's well, he knows not of my being a Pander, therefore I'll plead poverty, and my former trade of Merchandise, and see if I can move the Rogue to pity: alas! at present Sir I cannot, my wife and family than will starve for want of bread.  Scrap. 
More too blame thou in not providing better to support them, your debt is an estate for a good man pray acquaint me how were my thousand pounds employed?  Enter Moneylack. Mo. 
How a  upon Shiftwel, I am come to my wish, here 'llle keep out of sight and hear all, I know no object that could more content me. Ha' my Uncle Scrape, better and better, but I'll be silenced till the future.  Shift. 
Insult not on my Calamity good Sir, though being a Debtor and a slave to him that lends, I must endure it, yet hear me speak thus much in my own defence, losses at sea, and those Sir, great and many by storms and tempest, not domestical Riot in soothihg of my wife's humour, or my own has brought me to this low ebb.  Mo. 
Sure 'tis an old debt, he pleads his former trade of Merchandise, 'tis well the old Rogue knows it to be no otherwise.  Scrap. 
Suppose this true.  Shif. 
Nay 'tis a real truth without supposals Sir, besides can you think in your unquestioned wisdom that the ruin of me, (once an able Merchant) can raise your reputation with good men!  Mo. 
No if it thrive with him, hang me as 'twill damn him if he be not converted, for all he's my Uncle.  Shif. 
Suppose this Sir, if you permit me a month more, it widow l not be your loss nor prejudice, and there was never yet but shame and scandal in a victory when Rebels unto reason's passion fought it.  Mo. 
Our Divines cannot speak more effectually.  Scrap. 
Shall I be talked out of my Money.  Shif. 
No Sir, but entreated to do yourself a benefit and preserve that you possess entire.  Scrap. 
How Friend?  Shif. 
By making me your beadsman, when I eat my thanks, next Heaven, will be paid to your mercy, when your ships are at sea, my prayers will swell the sails with prosperous winds and guard them from tempests and Pirates: keep your aware houses from fire, or quench them with my tears.  Scrap. 
If this could be.  Shift. 
It must or my devotion lies: Aside. come Sir, I see a gentle promise in your eye, make it a happy act and me rich in being the instrument.  Scrap. 
Well you have prevailed, take a month longer, but see you fail not, if you do I'll protest you first, and that done, have the Statute made for Bankrupts served upon you.  Shif. 
If I do 'tis in your power, but not in mine to shun it.  Scrap. 
But do you hear: no talk of it, should this arrive at twelve on the exchange, I should be laughed at for my foolish pity, which money men hate, so farewell.  Exit. Shif. 
So he's gone. Looks out. I bless the Counter where I learned this Rhetoric, now I'll shake again.  shakes his Pockets. Mo. 
Ha! so full faith and plead poverty, I'll out and scorn him: Ha', ha', ha'.  Shif. 
Well I'll abide your jeers for once, and hope it may be your turn another time.  Mo. 
In troth very likely, but I have seen and heard all, excuse my manners.  Shif. 
I think I worked him pretty well for all he was your Uncle,  Mo. 
Nay and with such Devotion too.  Shif. 
Never did I pray so, so hearty before,  

But come now let's to the next Tavern steer,  
And there my hoarse pipes with Canary clear;   Exeunt.  

Scene the sixth,  Enter Shipton. 
Puffed up with pride I am grown ambitious, can I forget to give, a bow to the humble Milkmaids: can I forget a curtsy making to my liberal Almes-givers? can I forget every Sundays going to the Church porch to beg a loaf? yes I can forget all,  

Shipton no more now shall be,  
Beholding to their liberality.   
But ha'! I see my happiness, the Sun shines clear: come, come my worthy Gallant, if thou dost fail to effect what thou hast promised me, all my expectations are but Air! but why do I doubt thy gratitude, I am confident in thy nobleness, and will vaunt upon it: soar high Shipton, higher yet, and think thou never wast, what too sure thou hast been! Ha', ha', ha', me thinks I shall laugh to see a poor wench beging for an Alms, though I have done't myself, ha'! for that very word I could correct my insolence! I will avouch I near was poor: hang all beggarry, for my expected happiness assures me I was born to know endless felicity, not the fruits of woe. But stranger things I yet conceive! This Gentleman could not having no ground of acquaintance promise me this preferment without a cause? no my youth and beauty stirred him to't! I am in my teens and that alone must be the motive! this I conjecture, and this effect ye powers for my future bliss.  Enter Radamant with two other Devils like Gentlemen. Rad. 
My pretty Damsel I must confess I have been somewhat tardy, but now come to perform my promise beyond thy expectation, guess at my meaning.  Ship. 
Alas! I cannot prophesy Sir.  Ra. 
Then know I intent to marry thee, and have brought these my attendants to witness it  Ship. 
Are you real Sir?  Ra. 
By all that's real I am: behind this Grove I have a horse and pillion for my Spouse, these my attendants are nobly mounted too, we have not Jades that need the switch and spur, but will run with all speed to perform the rights that to our marriage shall be appurtenant, bestow thyself upon me and all my Fortunes and Estate are thine.  Ship. 
Now I see I prophesied rightly: I am ever happy, Thee and thy estate, a noble Husband.  Ra. 
A match let's go,  

But first join hands that nothing may our he arts divide.  
I am thy bridegroom. Ship. And I am thy Bride.   Exeunt, 
Finis Actus Primi.    

Actus secundus.  

Scena prima.  Enter Greg. Hodge. Jug. and Bab. Beggars. Hod. 
COme, come divide the spoil, share and share like▪  Greg. 
Withal my heart: there Hodge there's for thee.  Hod. 
Very right.  Greg. 
And there Jug there's for thee.  Jug. 
True to a farthing.  Greg. 
And there Bab's for thee, and here's for myself, and the odd overplus let's give to the Fiddler.  Hod. 
A very good Motion, for now after our long puritanical praying lets spend a little of what we got in merriment.  Jug. 
Prithee Greg. what is it thou starest at so?  Greg. 
Why at yonder thatched cottage, me thinks it would make a pretty palace for us Princes of the ragged Regiment to in habit in.  Hod. 
O that was old Shipton the ditch diggers.  Jug. 
I but he is dead, Hodge, and has left it to his daughter a poor Alms wench.  Bab. 
And yet as proud as the Devil.  Jug. 
I wonder what's become of her, I have not seen her at Alms giving a pretty while, and she did not use to hang an Arse.  Hod. 
Pish let her be where she will, we keep the Fiddler here to no purpose.  Greg. 
Well strike up Fiddler we'll take a dance, and then make enquiry after Agatha Shipton for the purchase of her cottage.  A Song. 

A Beggars a Prince, we gather from hence  
We are not confined as some Princes be,  
Though we are not so rich,  
VVee've as princely an Itch,  
And my mind, my mind is a Kingdom to me,   

We lose no grate purses,  
Nor have not the Curses,  
Of Orphans: of Widows, or poor Caveliers,  
And before that I shall, from a Dignity fall,  
Till be eight times, nine times ten hundred years.   

We scorn all their fears,  
And live not in fears,  
Of being imprisoned by black rod or Tower,  
And as for the stocks, of itself it unlocks  
Within the space of a merry short hour,   Dance and Exeunt.  

Act second, Scen. second.  Enter the Captain Solus. 
I that have lead a life until of late in spite of death, passed through the dangers of it without regard, am now won and vanquished: There is an heroic Amazon hard by, whose eyes have darted fire intomy breast, which nothing but her kindness can extinguish, but if she should prove cruel I shall soon be ashes I Must I thus yield? shall I forget the sound of Martial drums, the warlike noise of Trumpets, to listen to the inticeing harmony of instruments touched by P●ikellas hand? shall I forget the ordering of a camp? to ride great horses to besiedgs a City? to undermine a Castle, to raise Bulwarks, and all for the love of a simple woman? it must be so: these legs that were wont to lead armed men to battle, I now must use in dances: this hair that used to be covered with a Helm cloggy with sweat and blood, I now must daily powder: these hands that were used to wave a dreadful sword instead of iron gauntlets, now must wear perfumed gloves: I that was wont to be constantly under a Surgeons hands, must have a Barber now to keep me neat: O Love thou art divine, and canst transform,  
A man from that he was, it is in vain,  
Tn think to shun the thieg thou dost constrain.  
O heaven if I can but win my love, it will be a conquest deserves a trophy far above,  
My best of victories: 
I'll go and try her,  
'Twas love that kindled, love must quench my fire.   Enter Roger. Cap. 
Who art thou,  Ro. 
I Sir.  Cap. 
I you, what are you to good to be spoke too?  Ro. 
I am Roger.  Cap. 
By that I know thee not, is Roger in a Captain's Roll? isted writ?  Ro. 
Yes Sir in the Parson's book; the day thereof my baptism is set down.  Cap. 
And in that honour, how oft hast thou ere fought with Infidels and killed a score or two.  Ro, 
Not I, a score or two said you Captain, nay then I should never escape, for I'll promise you many one is hanged for killing of one.  Cap. 
Fie what an ignorance is this hast thou a mind to become a soldier?  Ro. 
Indeed I cannot resolve you, I am with a Mistress, I'll ask her whether she'll turn soldier too, and then if I like it there's an end, but pray Captain what is a soldier?  Cap. 
A soldier is a man that ventures his life a hundred times a day, and in his Princes and his Country's cause stands Canon's shot, and when his bodies full of wounds, lies all night in the field, and sleeps upon his Helm.  Ro. 
Good Captain pardon me, neither I nor my Mistress will be soldiers then, venture my life so many times a day, there's more safety in turning Thief, marry I thought a soldier had not been such a fool, but now I think on't good Captain persuade my Father, Mother, Brothers, Sisters, and all the kindred I have to become soldiers, that they may all be killed quickly, I swear Captain you should lose nothing by it.  Cap. 
Base Coward.  Ro. 
Good Sir what is the meaning of that word Coward?  Cap. 
A Coward is a fellow as base as thou, one that does spend his precious time in sloth, cares not what alterations Kingdoms have, so be at home may welter in his pleasures, a fellow that had rather sit all day smoking Tobaco and carouseing cups, then die his sword in blood of Enemies.  Ro. 
Why then Sir indeed I am a very Coward, 'tis better by half then a soldier, I know there's far more pleasure in a glass of good wine then in bullets whizing about one's ears, and Pikes and Halberds beating out ones teeth.  Cap. 
Thou dungil wretch.  Ro. 
Nay pray Sir be not angry, for I vow I should never digest the soldier's life.  Cap. 
Thou earthen minded slave 'tis pity thou shouldst eat or drink thou hast no better thoughts.  Ro, 
Good Sir give me leave to be of my own mind and a Coward, I am sure there's no wise man but woned say as I do, what have I to do with souldery, let those follow wars that at are weary of their lives.  Cap. 
Thou art as dungil a minded Rascal as ever I heard, and deservest to be hanged, and so I leave thee.  Exit Captain. Ro. 
Go hang yourself my Hufting Captain, what have I to do with your wars two, I should never endure to hear a gun shot off, for hearing the report of our Steward's pistol, does many times make me endanger my breeches.  Exit  

Scen. Third.  Enter Shipton with Attendants. Ship. 
Stand at a distance, me thinks this state becomes me.  Enter a Crier. 
HA'! what Bell is that?  Cry. 
O Yes, if any man or woman, in City, Town, or Country can tell me tidings of Agatha Shipton, the daughter of Solomon Shipton Ditch digger lately deceased, let them bring word to the Crier of the Village, and they shall be well rewarded for their pains.  Ship. 
Curse on that tongue what makes this cry after me? can they not bestow the Alms that came to my share to some other poor wretch that wants it more than I do now? no 'tis not that! upon my life some canting Beggars covetous of my cottage have made this way of inquiry for me to purchase it. And if my noble Lord should have divulged it to these my attendants what I first was, and they now declare it I should again be wretched for all these delicates: I can't in my proud thought be rich if any but himself should know I ever was poor.  Cry. 
Pray ean any here tell me tidings of the party I cry off?  Att. 
No truly honest man.  Cry. 
Then farewell Gentlemen.  Ship. 
This answer does again prop up my spirit.  

My worthy servants know me or know me not▪  
This present kindness never shall be forgot.   Enter Radamon. 
Welcome Noble Sir.  Ra. 
I hankes my fair Spouse, I see I am come most opertunely, let's sit and taste of all the varieties this board is furnished with.  

— Attendants in the mean while  
Let your dancing make our Lady smile.   (Sat at a banquet) They dance, Ra. 
Now begun, we must confer in private. Now I am thy Husband and thou art my Wife, yet know I am no mortal! I am a Devil! these my attendants Devils too! I can pierce through the air, ransack its Treasures! I can raise thunder and lightning, stir up Storms, quell Tempests, do or undo any thing to please me! I'll give thee power too! the winds shall be at thy command, and every thing else at thy dispose!  Ship. 
How matried to an Imaterial Spirit this starteles me, how sweetly could I now desire my former poverty! but Pride assures me I am happy still, and on that staff I'll lean. Then Fortune turn thy wheel,  

I am in now and must through,  
And to all virtuous acts I bid adiev.   
Well having cunningly won me to you, I must obey and be what you are pleased to make me.  Ra. 
Then after me repeat these following words.  Raziel, Ziragia, Phonthonfancia. Ship, 
Repeats.  Both Exeunt with Thunder and Ligtning,  

Scene the Fourth  Enter Shiftwel and Roger. Ro. 
I Shall study to be your humble servant.  Shift. 
Thou art a noble Minister of words: but wilt thou be my Cabinet, my friend Roger?  Ro. 
I will obey you Sir.  Shift. 
Liberally spoken, when I have opened me, wilt thou be privy?  Ro. 
Very secret and officious, it is manners in me, your commands shall wedge my tongue, hedge my heart, and tie a true Lover's knot with the strings of it.  Shift. 
Thou art an honest clad of earth, it is pity the malicious Sunshine warmed thee not into a Diamond.  Ro. 
You speak above my brain Sir.  Shift. 
I am marvellously in love with your Lady, Roger.  Ro. 
Wonderful! is my Lady your sweet heart?  Shift. 
Yes but ignorant of my affection yet.  Ro. 
I would be drunk if you were my Master Sir.  Shift. 
I Roger, I would have a Wine cellar to the purpose Man, but dost know any possible way to win her?  Ro. 
Sir I am passing empty of invention: but an't please you would you marry her?  Shift. 
No you may swear it, but I must counterfeit yes, why dost wonder at it?  Ro. 
She does nothing all day but read merry Comedies, and every night spend two or three hours on a Tragedy of a merry fellow Dametas, and a company of strange named Lovers, she's no more a huswife than you or I Sir, on my own proper knowledge I vow and protest it.  Shift. 
Thou art too earnest my old faced Saturn, I like her near the worse, housewifery is the superficies of a gentle Female, and the parenthesis of a Lady which may be well left out.  Ro. 
You are a scholar Sir, and your bookship shall direct me,  Shift. 
I should be glad to cope with your Lady Sir, me thinks I am of a prompter expression then usal: Ha! your Lady said I? faith see where she comes.  Enter Mrs. Lovefree. Ro. 
I vanish in a mist then.  Exit Roger. Shift. 
He out with a Poetical Solique for my Praeludium. The gaudy stars are not more full of glee, when golden Phoebus setteth in the West, nor do the cheerful Birds with more delight rejoice at the new livery of the spring, than I to have this Miracle of Beauty enter into the knowledge of my Eyes.  Mrs Love. 
He speaks well, I would he meant in earnest, the gentleman seems very deserving, but he's somewhat wild I imagine.  Shift. 
She shall be stoutly accosted, impudence is a very happy quality in a wooer I perceive.  Mrs Love. 
He comes.  Shift. 
Lady I credit you are not a puny in the Court of Cupid, and therefore I hope need not the tedious circumstances of an Annual service: I am bold to tell you plainly I love you, and if I find occasion I will maintain it boldly.  Mrs Love. 
Pray Sir Desist.  Shift. 
Never, sweet Lady, my descent I know you doubt not, and my love you need not, for while I live I shall love you, and when you die your memory.  Mrs Love. 
Your carriage and discourses Sir, show you are a Traveller.  Shift. 
My boldness she means: Madam I have been one and can declare the Habits, Conditions and Situations of divers Countries; nay more my fornights' observation of the Antipodes, this will make her wonder.  Mrs Love. 
O strange have you been there Sir? I admire how you ever came thither!  Shift. 
Madam I can tell you, but should I tell you, I should affright you more than the doleful groans of a dying Creature in the hideous night.  Mrs Love. 
Nay if it be so terrible, pray sir forbear.  Shift. 
Well put off.  Mrs Love. 
Yet, pray resolve me one thing.  Shift. 
No sooner asked but granted.  Mrs Love. 
Whether the Antipodes have a King.  Shift. 
Yes but he's no man.  Mrs Love. 
I believe so, for I could never credit that any man inhabited there.  Shift, 
There they have no houses neither but the King's palace, where Sir Francis Drake was entertained after he had shot the gulf.  Mrs Love. 
Possible! I wonder at it.  Shift. 
Nay more they at the Antipodes hear with their noses, smell with their ears, but taste withal their senses, for they are the most insatiablest gluttons in the whole world.  Mrs Love. 
But I cannot imagine how their senses are so contrary to ours,  Shift. 
Nay and they are opposite to us too.  Mrs Love. 
That indeed I have heard. But you frequent plays, do ye not sir?  Shift. 
Plays they are most commonly my every afternoons recreation.  Mrs Love. 
And you have red many Histories?  Shift. 
Many Lady.  Mrs Love. 
This pleases me too, farewel sir.  Shift. 
Admired Lady leave me not so.  Mrs Love. 
What would you have sir?  Shift. 
Your consent Lady  M Love. 
O expect that hereafter.  Shift. 
Nay dear Lady.  Mrs Love. 
You are too importunate sir farewel.  Exit. Shift. 
No matter, I am sure to have thee: how some women are taken with strange tales? quest onless she's a Widow, but no matter, plenty of money will wove contempt in a beauty at second hand.  

Next time we meet I do not doubt to get her,  
Hercules could not woo a Lady better.   Enter Monylack. Money-lack. 
Thou art well met.  Mo. 
Thanks good Shiftwel.  Shift. 
I have brave news to tell thee, but come let's to the Tavern, and by the virtue of a glass of wine, 'twil slide off my tongue more sweet.  Mo. 
Agreed, but I should call upon a friend about this hour according to engagement.  Shift. 
Nay I'll not stay for 'tis full noon, and I have promised to be Sir oliver's guests.  Mo. 
he's come to town then.  Shift. 
Yes he came last night, and has commanded noble preparations for the gossipping to day. Ha! see where he comes.  Enter Sir Oliver, Mo. 
I'll leave you then.  Shift. 
Protest but you shan't, Sir Oliver the humblest of your servants.  Sir Oliver. 
Nephew Shiftwel. the only one I wished for.  Shift 
You are welcome to town Sir, I expected you long afore this, till your last Letter showed good cause to the contrary.  Sir Oliver, 
Indeed I could not possible come till now, nor now neither well, for in the interim several concerns of mine lies in the trust and confidence of some persons which I doubt.  Shift. 
Your Lady Sir is delivered of a fine plump boy, he will be as notable a wag as the Father I'll watrant him.  Sir Oliver. 
I have seen it and blessed it, but to make my promise good, there Nephew there's ten pieces for you, and come you must be my principal guess to day.  Shift. 
It grieves me that I must be forced against my will, I hate the company of such a crew of Women (as there to be sure I shall find enough) nay and honest women too: yet for this money's sake I must, and so good patience guide me, Sir I can't deny you, but this Gentleman is my intimate friend and in leaving him so abruptly, I make a breach of our friendship,  Sir Oliver. 
Not for the world, with this Gentleman your friend, I invite you for my guess to day, and will promise you Sir a hearty welcome.  Mo. 
Sir I thank you, but would willingly beg your pardon and my excuse, for probablely my strangeness may be some part of hindrance to mirth in some of your scotiable guess,  Sir Oliver. 
Not in the least Sir, I have a Niece that loves to entertain such handsome Gentlemen as you are.  Shift. 
He means my Sister Maria, faith for that words sake go Money-lack.  Sir Oliver. 
Nay pray Sir come, no more delays.  
My Guests by this are sat and dinner stays!  Exeunt.  

Scen. fifth.  Enter Pluto Proserpina, and five Devils. Pluto. 
NOw declare,  1 Diu. 
Infernal King, I have been my circuit, but each christians heart was so fortified against my attempts, that I was dubious of bringing any news acceptable to your ear, till at last creeping into a strong water shop amongst a crew of topers, I partly divided myself and stuck upon each man's tongue, who presently within the space of a poor moment, warped out such a number of ignominous lies, that Hell itself would quake to hear them.  2 Di. 
I was his second, for in a puff of smoke I crep up their noistrils into their very brain, and their played a tyrant's part in converting their lies into execrable Oaths: damnation was their constant wish, and so wish I and hope ere long to make them Charon's customers.  3 Di. 
I have been amongst a crew of Cobblers and Broom-men and have raised an endless discord, that I dare promise upon penalty of your powerful displeasure, diversity of murders will be between them committed.  4 Di. 
I have not been idle neither: I have been scouting among the Lawyers in their pleading hall, where a cause coming to be heard between a rich Usurer and an Heir, I skipped into the hearts of six affidavit men, who swore point blank for the Usurers interest, against what was either truth or equity which makes for the interest of our Kingdom.  Pluto. 
Well 'twas bravely done, and for this your care and diligence kiss our Proserpina's hand, then run to your several stations to perfect what you have partly intangled: if you meet any of your,  

Other to brethren, bid them make haste to bring  
A fraught of souls to Hell's fiery King.   Exeunt. 
Finis Actus Secundi.    

Act Third,  

Scene the First.  Shipton deformed in her Cottage. 
AM I awake or in a dream? Ha! What dingy Hayloft am I left in now? Am I once more become the miserable Inhabitant of my poor paternal Cottage: Alas! 'tis too true! Is this the end of all my pride to be again reduced to my pristine poverty! How vain is seeming glory! How momentary are all the pleasures that airy spirits boast off! Decitful Devil am I thy Spouse and so a witch and have no other habitation but where derision daily laughs me in the face, Why dost thou not build me Castles in the Air that I might throw down Thunder bolts upon the heads of those that durst up braid me? But ha'! what's this! O hellish Cruelty! Am I Agatha Shipton, surely no! Where's thy captivating beauty did enchant insinuating Devils! Here's nothing left but the bare bones of a decayed face of four-score years of Age which verifies the Proverb she looks as if the Hag had read her: Then farewell all future expectation of true felicity I must,  

Perforce conform myself now to embrace  
The spells of utter darkness and disgrace.   Enter. Enter Beggars. Greg. 
How now runaway are you once more come to light again?  Ship. 
Yes Hellibore.  Greg. 
Bore me no Boars d'ye see you are a Sow for boring of me for all your crooked Nose.  Jug. 
Bless me she is strangely altered!  Bab. 
Sure 'tis not she!  Hodge 
Sure my Name is not Hodge: Come we come to bid you Money for the purchase of your Cottage.  Ship. 
Keep your Money I want it not, nor any thing else.  Jug. 
Marry come up Potters are you grown so proud, I have known the time you would have leapt at a crust.  Ship. 
Tormentors be gone and trouble me not.  Greg. 
Be gone, we won't or if we do we will send a whole Legion of Admirators to perplex thee, all the Country shall know of thy Devilish deformity.  Ship. 
Are you presumptuous villainies.  stamps Enter Radamon with Thunder and Lightning and scares away the Beggars. Rad. 
Now am I come to supply the Company of those thou wise'y hast dismissed and in recompense of my love thou must practise Murder, Witchcraft, fatal Prophecies and what not that Hell can boast off.  Ship. 
My former vows enforce me to enact what you desire.  Ra. 
Then I'll promise thee: Henceforward thou shalt be  
Admired by Nations for thy Prophecy.  Exeunt with horrid Music,  

Scene the Second.  Enter Sir Oliver and Shiftwell severally, as in a Garden. Sir. Ol. 
NO more of these costly feasts nor go ssiping.  Shift. 
Ha! Sir Oliver alone I'll stand here and listen.  Sir. Ol. 
No, no, I have a Plot to reassume my former an ancient way of living.  Shift, 
How will he leave us? O penurious cur!  Sir Ol. 
I'll repose my trust and Confidence in none but in myself.  Shif. 
Yes I'll share with thee villain and put a stop to all thy cunning.  [Sir Oliver pulls out a Letter.] Sir Ol. 
This Letter does prepare the Physic I shortly intent to administer to Shiftwel and his Wife.  Shift. 
Does the plot lie there, then be attentive ears!  Sir Ol. 
This Letter is an Imploration to regain my good wife's favour, with numberless protestations never so disgracefully to live from her.  Shift. 
More Knave thou, but for my own ends I'll prevent thee.  Sir Ol. 
But I lose time,  

— I must away,  
In Plots there is no danger like delay.   Exit. [Going out drops a Letter!] Shift. 
Damned Imposture! but I'll not rave nor rage but smoothly put a bar to his conspiracy, and see he has left me further instructions to proceed, I'll read it.  [Reads the Letter.] 
My Dear.  
Prithee pardon what I have done amiss, and though I have been a prodigal wanderer once more receive me home into thy favour: 'Tis but Justice in me to be submissive since I am so much guilty of ingratitude to the embraces of so kind a Wife. I protest religiously never to go back into that path of folly wherein I have been so long hedged, but post to come to thee, Embrace, Enjoy, Live, and never again to live apart from thee till death separates me from being  
Thy endeared Husband Sir Oliver.  Shift. 
Very good now I'll go place my Engine, and quickly quench thy new desires.  

We both have laid our plots and his design,  
Which he thinks sure's prevented thus by mine.   Exit.  

Scen. Third.  Moneylack Solus. 
HOw easy was I tempted to my ruin! I have a Niece said he, now I know thou hast a fair one two, whose amorous eyes have charmed my heart and made me subject, to love's Deity! Maria! lovely Maria! to thy beauty I am a Captive and ever dedicate myself to thy service. How the rushing waves of love do tumble and beat upon my tender heart. My eyes are very dim or almost out with gazing on the Sun whose light is celestial, Me thinks I am in a dream.  

All things to nature contrary go.  
I needs must sleep and love commands it so!   [Sleeps and soft music plays and this Song.] 

Muse's express in every line  
A Phoenix virtues all divine!  
Richest of Nature in whose Eye  
You Gods may see Divinity!  
O what a charm in her does dwell  
None but the Gods themselves can tell?   

Her beams the Sun at Noon displays,  
Unable to extend his Rays,  
Did all but view her right they'd say,  
She is light and darkness Night and Day,  
O what a charm in her does dwell,  
None but the Gods themselves can tell!   [He awakes] 
Ha! me thought I heard a heavenly voice singing in the praise of my Maria,  

Blessed be that voice, for she is all divine!  
And I'm but mortal than she can't be mine!   Enter Shiftwel. 
But I must cease.  Shift. 
My dear friend well met, have I not got a noble colour.  Shift. 
Faith I have been hard at it, but why so melancholy? thoulookest ill too, prithee the cause?  Mo. 
Truly I am ill, very ill and yet the cause—  Shift. 
What is't prithee tell me?  Mo. 
He is my friend I cannot well deny him, 'tis love.  Shift. 
Love! in what kind  Mo. 
In the best kind, the worthiest kind! A Cordial Honourable and Honest love.  Shift. 
Honest Love! Ha', ha', ha', Pox on such love, and all the Generation of it. Hang honest love, hate honest Women, stick to a Cup of good Sack and live as I do, and thou wilt never do amiss I'll warrant thee. Good Money lack go sleep upon't, so good night, to morrow morn I'll see you again and hope to find you in another mood. Honestly in love, Ha', ha', ha'!  Mo. 
But ere you go a word: why d' you pretend  
You have a friendship when you slight your friend?  
By this ill temper all your love's destroyed  
Neglect of kindness makes a kindness void,  Shift. 
Pardon what's past: permit me to implore  
Your love to think I loved you as before.  
And though my humour ushered out a jest,  
It was no spark of falsehood from my breast.  
Declare your mind your pleasure I'll attend,  
Damnation's due to him that fools his Friend.  Mo. 
Then as I go the story I'll relate  Shift. 
May heaven in all things make thee fortunate.  Exeunt.  

Scen. fourth.  Enter Hairbrain and Swagger. Hair. 
THis is the only life my brave Belswagger.  Swag. 
True, to spend a life musing at home, Pox on such sotts●ness.  Hair. 
No, no thank my stars I have thought of better things.  Swag. 
I but what shall we think of to get us a little more money, I have a great fancy to take a ramble to London, and your Father's name wont gain us credit every where.  Hair. 
Not every where, but in some part of London I'll engage it shall, but however being so nigh home I'll make a step to him, perhaps he may be o'erjoyed to see me and prove liberal.  Swag. 
Provided you'll stay at home and grow reform.  Hair. 
I'll turn Puritan first.  Swag. 
Nay I cant Imagine thou wilt leave me  Hair. 
No faith to leave thee in misery would to my conscience be  

— a trouble without end,  
he's no true Christian, that proves false to his Friend.   Swag. 
Enough I'm confident.  Hair. 
Well I'll to my Father and return with all speed possible, the mean time let no thoughts discontent thee, for as I have vowed  

I'll prove thy Friend and thou shalt see  
I'll find a plot to make the Miser free.   Exeunt.  

Scen. Fifth.  Enter Shiftwell. 
WEll little does Moneylack think Maria's my Sister, in the end he shall not doubt of his enterprise, I have left him in good hopes and am stolen to have the other trial of my Amorous Dame, this is [knocks the door, and now good luck on my side.  Enter Roger. 
who's there.  Shift. 
A friend.  Ro. 
What is your Name.  Shift. 
As you say that is to be thought on: I must pickout some strange name. Frank heart.  Ro. 
O Sir cry your mercy I remember you and your suit and will be very serviceable to you, if now and then you will suffer me to be blithe and full of merry moods.  Shift. 
Roger where hast been prithee?  Ro. 
At the spiget Sir is it not a very rainy day?  Shift. 
Thou art well washed within I perceive, but Roger is your Lady at leisure to discourse, your Lady said I see where she comes!  Enter Mrs Lovefree. Ro. 
Then 'tis time for me to be gone.  Exit Roger. Mrs Love. 
Ha! see where my Gallant is, I shall be courted certainly and perhaps shall yield.  Shift. 
Madam your humble servant; let your lily white hand enrich my lips.  [Kisses her hand] Mrs Love. 
You are very complimental Sir.  Shift. 
Faith Madam I love you for millions of causes and you shall find it so if you p'ease introth dear Lady.  Mrs Love. 
I'll try him a little.  Shift. 
And I'll try thee I'll hold thee a wager ere I have done with thee.  Mrs Love. 
But Sir, you have been a very deboist Gentleman I hear.  Shift. 
By what name pray Madam.  Mrs Love. 
Truly Sir my memory is none of the best I have forgotten.  Shift. 
So I believe: pray withal forget what you have heard and you shall hear no more of it, and upon that promise, come shall we agree.  Mrs Love. 
To what?  Shift. 
To do as we would be done unto.  Mrs Love. 
How's that.  Shift. 
I could show you Madam, with your good liking.  Mrs Love. 
Some other time I presume Sir will serve.  Shift. 
Nay no more Courtship if you love me Madam.  Sings. 

O Cupid the Bowman, I am not thy foe man,  
For I love this woman as well as I know man,  
And therefore I pray thee with mischief to stay me,  
And quickly to lay me in bed with this Lady.   Mrs Love. 
What call you this pray▪  Shift. 
'Tis my imploration Madam.  Mrs Love. 
You are very fluent, 'tis mere flattery, they are most childish will believe all that their Suitors say my most Poetical servant!  Shift. 
Most obdurate Lady, was ever widow so hard to win, sure her late Husband got not her Maidenhead she is so backward.  Mrs Love. 
Adeiu Sir.  Shift. 
Not yet sweet Lady.  Mrs Love. 
Pray trouble me no more with your speeches,  Shift. 
O cruel reply to a Lover's suit!  Aside. 
how to dissemble a little if ever you felt this passion's pain, if ever you would pitied be yourself, or if you know that love has power to kill, commiserate a heart so swelled with love for you, that it will quickly break if you deny the justice of my request, and if you are resolved to remain Inexbrable, I wish my Fortune yours, and if ever you love you may be served so!  Mrs Love. 
I am but a Woman and these words would move a stupid rock to pity, Sir I can resist no longer, your tongue has magic in't, you have overcome me and enjoy your Conquest. But first your Name.  Shift. 
Frankheart.  Mrs Love. 
And mine Lovefree: then thou Frankheart takes mes Lovefree, without any farther Ceremony.  Shift. 
A match, and one thing more I'll promise  
My love to thee shall constant be and pure,  M Love. 
Let us to bed then and the bargains sure.  Shift. 
So this plot has hit right and I shall find,  
Riches enough to poise a troubled mind.  Aside. Exit.  

Scene the sixth.  Enter Shipton. 
NOw both in mind and form I am a perfect Witch, what hitherto I have done has spread my fame far wider than it is, so that those who before looked upon me as a crack brained woman, now begin to admire me, and esteem my words as Oracles, especially our English who only come to be resolved of what I know will come to pass of which here comes a great one.  Enter Abbot of Beverley. A B. 
Reverend Matron whose all knowing skill our Country admires, part of which for my own interest I humbly come to crave.  Ship. 
Come near Abbot of Beverley, you are not so much disguised but the Fox may be seen through the sheep's skin.  A. B. 
She knows me upon my life a witch!  Ship. 
'Tis not those  makes you a Lay person, no more than a long gown makes any man a Lawyer, please you to sit you shall not go away unsatisfied of what you desire.  A. B. 
I fear the downfall of our Abbeys, but ere I know my doom, accept this sacred Relic lately come from Rome, a sure preservative against all troubles and temptations.  Ship. 
O your Testimony is needless to the wise, of which I thus prophesy.  

When the Cow does ride the Bull  
Then Priest beware thy skull!  
And when the lower shrubs do fall,  
The great tree quickly follow shall.  
The Mitred Peacocks lofty pride,  
Shall to his master be a guide.  
The poor shall grieve to see that day  
And who did feast must fast and pray.  
Fate so decrees their overthrow,  
Riches bring Pride and Pride brings woe?   A. B. 
This is omminous and touches State, thy insolence must be corrected.  Ship. 
There's none that's wise will say so  
They that a Prophecy of me require  
Shalt know the Truth though not to their desire  
Construe it how you please, so I leave you.  exit. A. B. 
I fear she does presage too true, but ere I harbour such a thought of my own downfall I'll cry vindict on the witch that first induced me too't.  

Then prophesing Shipton know  
Beverleys' great Abbot is thy Foe  
And does protest as he renounces sin,  
To null thy witchcraft ere sun set again.     

Act fourth.  

Scene the First.  Enter Abbot of Beverley and Beggars at one door, A Justice of peace Shipton and Radamon at the other. A. B. 
BUt you must be sure to swear point blank.  Greg. 
O through an inch board Sir, lie and swear to it, 'tis the least thing of an hundred, besides what is it Beggars wont do for Money?  A. B. 
Very good but Mum, here comes the Justice and the witch.  Just. 
Here our Officer has brought the party our warrant did command, Now say what you can allege against her and let her answer for herself.  Ra. 
Which shall be nothing  Aside A. B. 
I say Sir she's a witch, and hope to prove it here by testimony.  Just. 
Well declare what can any of you testify against her.  Jug. 
Sir an't please your Worship I have known her ever since she was a Totterdas slut of fifteen, and she always threatened desperate things.  Just. 
Pish this is but talk, can any of you prove what you surmised for the ground of your warrant that she is a witch?  Ra. 
I now to the probat, speak what you can.  Greg. 
An't please your worship I can safely take my corporal oath that she is a—  [Snezes.] A. B. 
Out Rustic are you not ashamed to sneeze in the Justice's face?  Hod. 
An't please your Worship I dare take my oath too that she is a—  [snezes.] A. B. 
More impudence! this will ruin me.  Jug. and Bab. 
An't please your good Worship to take our oaths, and we will confidently swear she is a—  [snezes.] A. B. 
Devilish conspiracy! an Oath sticks in each throat and none can gulp it out.  Just. 
Pray Sir what was your meaning to bring these Mechanics here to deride me?  A. B. 
No Sir but—  Just. 
But what? know Sir I take it for an affront put upon me, for which these your Testimonials shall all find severe punishment thus to upbraid justice, but first say woman are you guilty of what they accuse you off or no?  Ship. 
No right worshipful Sir, and here I do defy what all of them out of malice have most disgracefully termed me.  Just. 
Once more speak you, or any, or all of you, can you contradict her, can you prove her a Witch?  Omnes. 
Yes an't please we can all swear she is a  [sneeze.] Just. 
Out impudent : Clark drive them in, and then make each persons Min●●mus to the County Goal, to answer to two Indictments. The one for upbraiding and derideing me a Justice of Peace in Goram, the other for falsely accusing Mother Shipton a woman of good repute and conversation.  A. B. 
O I am undone! pray Sir be merciful.  Just. 
Reprobates away.  
I shall be more severe to you if you stay.  Exeunt, A Beverley. Beggars, and Clark. Shift. 
A thousand thanks to your worship for being just to innocence,  Just. 
'Tis thy desert farewel.  Exit Justice. Ra. 
Now have I not played a true Lovers part▪  Ship. 
Thou hast.  Ra. 
Fear not these by blows  

Dread not to meddle with concerns of State,  
Guarded by Fins thou needst not fear thy Fate.   Exeunt with horrid Music.  

Scene second.  Enter Shiftwel Solus. 
I'm sorry and yet I cannot choose to laugh at my poor friend Moneylacks misfortune: he loves, he loves honesty, nay my Sister too, and yet I blame him: O that men in this world should be wrapped up in such dotage and stupidity to what end? where is their aim? would any man be an Epicure? can he boast himself so without the sense of variety! would he be a Philosopher? can he imagine to find the stone by beating on one experiment? would he be a Scholar and never turn over a new leaf: O ignorance inexpressible! of which I thank my stars I am but little guilty off: the best of knowledge is experience. A man may guests at many things, but when he has found them experimentally he is confident, so say I, I thought my new provided widow was much enriched, and now I have found it true, nay my pocket does pronounce 'tis verity itself.  [shakes his pockets.] 
And now having got a second to my Knight, I hope I shall cross the Proverb And between two stools sit sure:  

The next plot, Moneylack's contrived for thee!  
Then thou must play the cunning man for me.  
Old crafty Whorehound look well to thy hits  
When friends are faulty Shiftwel finds his wits.   Exit.  

Scene third.  Enter Hairbraine Solus. 
Well was ever Heart so just with Avarice as is the old dotard my Father, who at the approaching of winter must undauntedly expect to kick up his heels, and yet to want the charity of crossing my hand with one small mite of Silver, this is cold comfort to carry to my friend, and yet I must return to him: but now I think on't Father since thou art so unkind to give me nothing, I'll be so civil to find a means to know when I shall have all, i'm Heir though a wild one: hereabouts lives the good old Mother Shipton, she's wise they say and can presage prettily: this is the door sure I'll knock.  (knocks.) Enter Abigal. Shipton's Maid. Abi. 
Your business Sir.  Hair. 
Sweetheart is the good Mother Shipton within.  Abi. 
But not at leisure as yet, you impart the occasion of your coming to me Sir, I am her secret servant.  Hair. 
Why then prithee dost know Sir Habbakuk Holdfast of this County.  Abi. 
Yes an ancient Gentleman, much diseased and lives near Pomfret.  Hair. 
The very same.  Abi. 
And what of him?  Hair. 
Why prithee ask thy Mistress how long she thinks 'tis possible for him to live.  Abi. 
See where she comes.  Enter Shipton. Ship. 
Sir I know the party you enqui e off, and concerning whom I thus Prophesy.  

The Grave provided has a room  
For his old age: His hour is come.   
So I leave you.  Exit Shipton. Hair. 
So sweet heart thank thy Mistress.  Abi. 
Nay but pray Sir stay, if you forget to open your purse, I shan't forget to open my mouth: do you think I can live with thanks? the Belly requires meat, and the back clothing, thank you quoth he, marry come up.  Hair. 
Prithee be not so hot, there's for thee.  Abi. 
Well I hope thanks will suffice you Sir, though it would not me, so farewell Sir.  Exit Abigal. Hair. 
Flesh I have given her half my stock, I am poor and yet if I have ne'er so little I can't forbear to be liberal: well gentility spiced with Poverty is the worst accomplishment a Gallant of this Age, can be invested with: but to the repetition of the Prophecy.  

The Grave provided has a Room,  
For his old Age, his hour is come.   
Heaven send the time: now with a heart fraughted with joy.  

I'll to my Swagger and to him express,  
The election of my future happiness.   Exit.  

Scene fourth.  Enter Shiftwell and Moneylack. Shift 
FAith her disposition is most strange.  Mo. 
'Twas easier for to spurn the Cyclops Anvil down, and kick it into Atoms in the Air then to obtain her love.  Shift. 
O think not so.  Mo. 
Have I not cause?  Shift. 
At last after a constant and heard pursuit she may be won.  Mo. 
Can I but hope so much, did all the Stars malignant Influences threaten Fate opposite to my happiness, I would not deem them worthy of my observation, but persevere till I obtained or fell.  Shift. 
Conjecture still the best.  Mo. 
'Tis easier to advice then to perform.  Shift. 
In these times young Ladies for a while do mantle their affection in dislike, let not an ignorance of Virgins will disturb thy breast with weak despair.  Enter Maria and her maid alone. Shift. 
See and exalt your eyes to happiness.  Mo. 
Maria and her Maid, I see a Lute: let us escape the light and it is likely we shall hear her sing.  Maria. 
Now give it me, is it in tune?  Maid. 
Yes Madam.  Mo. 
Forbear a while to play upon the spheres ye servants to the Deities, the Gods will blame you if you keep the air of her all ravishing Harmony from their ears.  [Maria sings this song.] 

O sweet Diana virtuous Queen  
That dost affect the meadows green!  
By heaven's edict the guide of night  
And dost in fresh leave's woods delight!  
Like to the Nymphs so suffer me  
To conseerate myself to thee.   

Thou that for lust didst transform  
Actaeon to a Hart so charm  
With virtuous spells each Virgin's heart  
That men may never them divert  
From purity: or else pray make  
Them other hearts for Virgin's sake.   Exit Maria and her Maid. Mo. 
Now have you heard her resolution.  Shift. 
That she disguizes, not her love you mean.  Mo. 
True and I am most miserable!  Shift. 
But see here she's all alone: now speak to her I'll withdraw and pray for your success.  Mo. 
Thanks good friend: hail Natures most perfect work, and the continual Idea of my admiring Soul! however your poor Adorer Lady with a gracious look of your beloved eyes.  Mo. 
Alas your smile Sir is in vain, for in short, if you'll give me leave, I call to witness every particular instance, and tends to any Christians happiness, that I will never enter into Marriage: and for your saying you must die for me, I hold it but a common compliment of idle Lovers, and therefore wish you so much happiness to live without me.  Mo. 
O be not so unmerciful! had your Mother fairest Lady, Inexorable been, you had not been, nor those crimson Roses ever spread upon your lovely cheeks: has Nature liberally heaped the rairest perfections she could give Mortality to no end? surely no; as you are a daughter of a beauteous Mother, she being dead, you enrich the world unto you by your issue. Be not so cruel then, my fair Maria, let not your tongue degenerate from your form.  Ma. 
Sir you have heard me speak what I intent.  Mo. 
Be not a Tygress Lady.  Ma. 
Sir I must leave you, and leave you this humour, I respect you as you are a Gentleman of my acquaintance, but if any more you trouble me with your Court ship I shall utterly have you: so farewell.  Exit Maria. Mo. 
Does a fair face presage a cruel heart! Nature is grown decrepit sure, and all things sublunary err against her rule of order.  

This is my fate, the fates I can't prevent.  
And till the end I know not their intent.   Shift. 
What is she still obdurate?  Mo. 
Beyond expression!  Shift. 
Yet let not these doubt puzzle you, you will be happy, and enjoy her, I am confident you will: this is a common custom in young hearts.  Mo. 
But this is a fixed Star.  Shift. 
Fixed in your heart it seems, but otherwise I doubt it, herefore in the end doubt not you of your desire.  Mo. 
You have stirred a feeble relief within me, friend that my dear Maria may be warm and I will nourish it to some height,  Shift. 
A necessary none must want which do  
Desire fruition of those whom they woe.  Exeunt.  

Scen. Fifth.  Enter Captain, Priscilla, and Mother Prue. Pris. 
CAptain you promised me a new Gown and have broke your word I desire therefore to be acquitted your company.  Cap. 
Pretty Pris. my Tenants are slow in paying their Rents I had not failed thee else, but thou art very fine as you are.  Pris. 
That's without thanks to you, 'tis no cost of yours: I am beholding to a better friend for't.  Pru. 
But in truth Captain you must become more liberal to my Daughter for the future.  Pris. 
What do you think I'll venture my reputation for your Oaths, flattering words and a little foolish pleasure?  Pru. 
No indeed she must be maintained with other Materials: If she goes not fine and gallant, she must bid farewell for ever to all holidays: the Honourable and right Worshipful will not care for her embraces then.  Cap. 
Are you against me too Mother? I thought you had had a greater kindness for me then so.  Pru. 
Indeed Captain you know I have much respected you: but you must think of providing better for my Girl.  Cap. Pris. 
I love thee, give me thy hand, and though I never made use of my Credit in that kind, I'll vow before my Mother I'll take thee up a new Gown to morrow,  Pris. 
Performed and then you see Priscilla will requite your kindness.  Cap. 
Then we are agreed, I'll do it, now will I joak with my reverend Bawd a little. My wonderful old Mother methinks you are grown merry of the sudden, well is there any woman in Europe that can remember the building of the Capitol, I dare pronounce 'tis you: would I had as much money as you have spent in Almanacs since you could make use of them, I should be as rich as the grand Govenour of a province.  Pru. 
Well well Captain though you make a mock of my age, you would be glad to live so long yourself.  Pris. 
There is but small hopes to imagine he'll ever arrive to that Antiquity, his debauchness will shorten his days, besides he's so quarrelsome I wonder he has lived till now.  Cap. 
Pish you prate, but is supper ready Mother.  Pru. 
Yes but we must stay for Esquire Hairbrain.  Cap. 
Will he be here?  Pru. 
Yes, and his friend Mr, Swagger.  Enter Hairbrain and Swagger Pris. 
Long looked for comes at last, Mr. Hairbrain your welcome  Hair. 
Thanks my dear Pris.  Pru. 
Mr. Swaggar you are welcome too.  Hair. 
Mother your daughter looks exceeding well methinks.  Pru. 
Venus be praised she needs no art of painting, her face always wears its native colours.  Pris. 
Paint out upon't, I should be loath to dawb my face with ointment.  Cap. 
But many of as good features, have not so nice a stomach.  Pris. 
I credit you, and have heard many rail against it as if they scorned to adulterate their faces.  Cap. 
You women no dissemblers are, but he that can live without you is a happy man.  Hair. 
But we trifle time, Mother lead way we'll follow come Swagger within we shall find a Mistress for thee.  Pris. 
My Mother has a score or two at your service.  Swag. 
Thanks my fair Priscilla.  Exeunt Hairbrain Swagger and Pris and Prue. Cap. 
Well I must expect little enjoyment of dear Pris. while Hairbrain's here, would I could win her affection to myself I would carry her far enough out of all their reaches. She is Proxrots only child and she's rich.  

She may turn honest after she's a wife.  
However money makes a happy life.   Exit. 
Finis Actus Quarti.    

Act fifth,  

Scene first,  Enter Shiftwell with a Letter in his hand. 
SEe this Letter will ease the heat of my troubled friend, and with more spirit make him enact what I must desire him to perform to the life: 'Tis now high time to place my Engine, and indeed to work it, Sir Oliver keeps close to his study— 'tis to no good intent.  
And I must watch his cunning to prevent  
I'll strait to Moneylack and put my design in execution.  Enter Moneylack. 
But see ye how fortunately he comes, my dear friend read that and then judge of my prevalency with Maria.  Opens and reads the Letter. 
Sir having received a particular account of your worth and quality I am sorry I have so long repaid your affection to me with disdain. I would not have you triumph that I have so recollected myself, nor yet despair in any thing to the contrary, for at present I can only satisfy you that I esteem you as an accomplished Gentleman.  
Maria.  
Is this her own hand.  Shift. 
Is this mine? I am sorry you guess my friendships to be flattery.  Mo. 
No more, I credit you, and by this means inspired a second breath into a heartless Lover, 'tis beyond the reach of Oratory to declare thy gratitude. Nay the well wishes of your friend have the same power to implore the like success in all your own concerns.  Shift. 
You are very bountiful, but now I must make bold to employ you in a business wherein if you fail to be either secret or diligent 'twill be my utter ruin.  Mo. 
Then if I be may the destruction fall upon my head, declare.  Shift. 
This it is, when the gossipping was, after dinner steping into the garden I espied Sir Oliver murmuring to himself, and thinking it to be no goodness; squatted under a bush and heard the Rogue's design, very speedily of leaving my wife and returning to his own and with her to remain till death them departed, after he was gone I found 〈◊〉 Letter (which he had dropped) which was to be sent to his wife with 〈◊〉 great imploration for pardon for former errors, & protestations of entire love upon a favourable acceptance. Now to put an obstacle to his intent, I would have you in a Sergeants habit, go and arrest him at my suit upon two actions, one of Trespass, and the other of Battery, (for I'm sure he hath battered my wife) then threaten to carry him to the Counter, and in the interim I'll come and make up the business; and assure thee Maria in the bargain. Time and place to meet with him you shall receive in a note from me this even.  Mo. 
Then if I fail to do it to the life call me Hypocrite.  Shift. 
Enough, farewell for the present.  exit Moneylack. 
Now for my widow.  exit.  

Scene second.  The Scene draws, Swagger making a pass at Hairbrain, Hairbrain having his eye fixed on a letter, the Captain keeping of Swagger, Priscilla, two other whores and Mother Prue. Swag. 
REfuse my Mistress health, 'tis a crime which nothing but his death shall expiate have I been ever his continual friend, and am I slighted thus, I'll raise all the dreadful furies from the infernal shades to stigmatize him full of my revenge.  Pru. 
Come, come, I'll have no quarrels in my house.  Hair. 
Mum Impudence! I'll meet his fury.  Swag. 
How now Hag, can you hinder quarrels in a Bawdy-house.  Cap. 
If you can, you have more power than a Constable, but let my entreaties beg a reconcilement.  Swag. 
They are in vain and do but exasperate the prosecution of my just revenge advance Sir.  Hair. 
Stay beast unworthy of the name of man, much less unworthy thy of the name of Friend, first peruse this letter and then I shall allay the seeming confidence you have in your own valour.  giveth Swagger the Letter. 
Of what moment is extravagancy, or to what end serves a riotus life, seeing both the one and the other are subject to vicissitude and ready to yield at the least puff of wind that blows from a conatry shore! O my disobedience! To forsake the intern love of a Parent for the fruition of thy lascivious company! where is my father's golden Crop, I should have reaped? given to my Uncle whose love is 〈◊〉 cold to me as death itself. Now hell hound dost thou sec unto what distress by thy allusions I am now driven too, read there how my misery is characted; revenge is sweet. Advance therefore for I am resolved to send thy base polluted soul into the flames of Phlegeton.  Pris. 
Nay Hairbrain prithee let me persuade thee.  2. W. 
And Swagger let me persuade thee.  
3. And Gentlemen pray let me persuade you both.  Pris. 
I expected a more familiar way of scuffling then this.  2. W. 
I thought each man with his mate would fight  
Battles not full of danger but delight.  3. W. 
Soft kisses, sweet embraces, and such sport  
As often's used in the Venerial Court.  Hair. 
Out Whores trouble me not.  Cap. 
Methinks I find a sudden alteration within me, affection that even now was so powerful, is of the sudden turned to utter hate, and my heart for bringing forth any fruits of love to Priscilla is as barren a  

The sand that lies on the sea shore.  
I will embrace that love that hates a whore.   Pru. 
Well Gentlemen if you are so mute or mad I know not which nor I don't care whether, we'll be so civil to leave you, my Lady will find other Gallants to be more gently embraced by, so farewel ha', ha', ha'.  Exit Pru. and all the whores laughing. Manent Ha. Swag and Cap. Swag. 
Now Sir here take my sword and make a passage for my son that it may leave so vile a habitation as this body.  Hair. 
No here take mine and do me that courtesy,  

— For length of life to me,  
Is but the product of more mirsery.   Cap. 
Pray Gentlemen without being thought too rude, may I desire to know the cause of your Agrieveance.  Swag. 
Then know Sir, to this Gentleman my friend obey on expression  

— I have been too rude,  
I'm guilty of the sin ingratitude.   
By my persuasions to lead an Extravagant life, he has lately low a fair estate, and on his father's death bed merited his curses: for which I thus fall his sacrifice.  offers to fall on his sword Hair. 
For heaven sake forbear: so much a fresh is my love kindle that I have both forgotten nay and forgiven all, your confession to me, since all is past recovery, is a sufficient satisfaction.  Swag. 
Is this not policy to delay my death?  Hair. 
By all that's good it is not if you dare credit me.  Swag. 
You may be confident I will.  Hair. 
Then let all pass, we must now join prudence to our poverty, and by a serious life regain the loss of virtue.  Swag. 
With a heart as full of holy ardency as those that devoutly implore zealous mercies from their Saints, or as votaries from their Goddesses.  Cap. 
Pray may a third man intervene that has not over virtuously inclined himself & make a joint resolution with you for repentance.  Hair, and Swag. 
With all our hearts, but what is this.  Enter Despair. 
I am Despair and come to tell you, late  
Repentance ne'er can make you fortunate:  
Of all your pleasures take a second view,  
And let Despair your comfort be: adieu.  Exit. Hair. 
Hell take Despair it shall never enter into my breast.  Swag. 
Nor mine.  Cap. 
Nor mine but see another apparition!  Enter Hope. 
I am that virtue which does underprop  
The fainting heart of man with comfort: Hope  
And to you discontented now appear  
To bid you slight Despair and not to fear,  
That if you do confide: your Hope will be  
The anchor of your true Fidelity.  Exit. Ha. 
Hope thee I embrace, and friends let join hand and hearts in the height of sorrow to have the greatest Hope, by some learned Authors  

— we'll take advice  
To embrace all virtue, and avoid all vice.   Exeunt.  

Scene third:  Enter Shipton. 
NOw am I experienced in the Magical Sciences, as much as ever was the famed Medea or Circe. whose cunning has left a wonder to the world, so shall Shipton's too! but to what end? what will the applausive clamour of the world benefit me, when endless torments are my only comfort. But why do I suffer this consideration? ha●… not my deeds merited the fruit of Hell? but how? Is it a sin to covet riches when one suffers the contempt of the world by reason of poverty? yes coveting ambitiously is execrable, but having a heart open to embrace the delusions of the Devil, that, that alore is damnable! then detestable Shipton look into the glass of thy infirmities, which are so many they almost work a despair in me to cry peccavi● yet have we not powers above that, over hell's prevalency are predominant? then will I cleave to them! but is it not too late? sooner I confess would have been better! but surely a heart penitentially inclined is not contemptible! then Devil look to thyself, thou thinkest I am thine, but thou shalt find ere long thou art deceived. From thee  

And all thy Hellish Sciences I now regret,  
Heaven will forgive if Hell I do forget.   Exit  

Scene fourth.  Enter Radamon. 
HA', ha', ha', how I laugh at a poor crew of simple sinners who pursue temptation more than it does them: who will scruple to swear damn me, since 'tis Allamode? and who will avoid living viciously admirable in this world though they purchase Hell in the next? witness poor Shipton whose Name echoes out admiration, to whom I have been a small attendant, but for no small wages, I serve for souls but here she comes.  Enter Shipton. Ship. 
Ha! here's my soul catcher! now all goodness be my assistance we'ome my Radamon, thou art come just in the nick to accomplish an earnest request I have too thee?  Ra. 
Name it and 'tis granted.  Ship. 
Do't and I'll confirm thou art a miraculous Devil! by all the Hellish conspiracy thou ere wast master of, I do conjure thee to empty the Sea and make me sole commandress of all the riches therein lie expanded!  Ra. 
Impudent Witch! what has in joined thee to that arrogancy to desire that which all the power Hell could ever boast off never was able yet to grant.  Ship. 
So his nonperformance of  Aside 
This shall be my plea: why Radamon go to the sum of our contract art thou not my servant.  Ra. 
Yes I have been but now come in my Master's name to command thy soul.  Ship. 
My soul, ha', ha', ha'!  Ra. 
Yes thy Soul witch dost laugh.  Ship. 
Yes & does defy thee, know vaunting Devil by hell's instigation I have hitherto lead a vicious life I have now found out the way to virtue, which to follow I am so undeterminably inclined, that no temptations shall withdraw me from the perseverance of so good a resolution.  Ra. 
Conceited woman how dost thou flatter thyself with impossibilities: consider thy innumerable frailties, consider thy daily practice of Murder, Witchcraft, fatal Prophecies and what not that has merited hells endless torments: consider these rightly, and thou wilt find they are so ponderous they will weigh down the thoughts of any true felicity.  Ship. 
Delude me no more, begun and tell thy Master, Shipton walks in a path will make her truly happy by avoiding Hell.  Ra. 
Thou liest, thou art mine, resign thyself to me and that presently or I'll raise hell's fiery King himself withal his dreadful furies to drag thee to his ever burning palace!  Ship. 
Do, I dread them not.  Ra. 
Junx elk tu tenon Emon potidoma on Andra.  [Pluto with other devils with rakes enters] Plu. 
The cause of this great help thou craves?  Ra. 
See where she stands with such audacity Hell cannot show the like precedent.  Plu. 
Have you expressed our commands.  Ra. 
Yes and she scorns them.  Plu. 
Shipton thou art mine.  Ship. 
Yes and you can take me.  Plu. 
Seize on her strait.  [The Devils poke with their rakes and cannot touch her] Plu. 
What are you grown feeble? I'll join my strength!  [All cannot touch her.] Plu. 
What preservative has she got against our power?  Ra. 
Too sure she is sheilded by those powers above, to which ours is impotent!  Plu. 
We must use other means Shipton farewell,  
Pluto still hopes to see thee hang in Hell.  Exit all Devils with horrid music. Ship. 
I must now then conclude this to be the last attempt, still, still, protect me ye  

— Powers Celestial and I'll impart,  
Your glorious Mercy with a thankful heart.   Exit Shipton.  

Scen. Fifth.  Enter Sir Oliver and his man David. Sir Ol. 
Now David how thinkest thou of my cunning.  Dau. 
Very well truly Sir, you have a brain I'll, say that for you.  Sir Ol. 
Poor Shiftwel it troubles me though. O me what a brave man he was, no meeting at the Horse race, Cocking, Hunting, Shooting or Fowling at which Shiftwel was not a principal Gamester, and companion for the Nobility.  Da. 
I Sir he has paid deer for those follies, and 'tis but justice that such as soar above their pitch, and will not be warned by his example should like him share in the miseries that wait upon it.  Sir Ol. 
Thou sayest right David, and I in pity have for these few years lent him a helping hand to raise his fortunes, but now for my own self interest sake I must leave him, therefore David run and fetch my boots and bring them to the Inn, I'll haste before.  Da. 
I am gone Sir.  Exit David. [Sir Oliver goes off. and comes on again presently.] Mrs. Love free looking out at her Belcony. Mrs. Lovefree. 
Bless me, sure that is my old Knight that creeps along so or my eyesight fails me!  Enter Money lack in a Sergeants habit. Mo. 
I arrest you Sir, by the name of Sir Oliver Whorehound.  Mrs. Love. 
Ha! 'tis he and arrested. I must down and know the event.  [descends and stands within the Arras.] Sir Ol. 
Arrest me Sir at whose suit?  Mo. 
At Mr. Shiftwells' suit upon two actions, with two or three executions which shall grind you to powder when I have you in the Counter.  Sir Ol. 
At Mr. Shiftwells' suit, thou dost belie him Varlet, he I dare lay will weep when he heres on't.  Mo. 
Yes like a Millstone.  Enter Shiftwel. 
See where he comes you had best tell him so.  Sir Ol. 
Nephew Shiftwel you are come most opportunely to free me from this Bandog. I know you gave no way to it nor had you any reason so to do.  Mrs. L●. 
Bless me who do I see; Shiftwell is thy Name? O deceitful man!  Shift. 
Are you a Sergeant acquainted with the danger of a rescue, yet stand here prating in the open streets, the Counters sure a safer place to parley in.  Sir Ol. 
Your reason for this disgrace to me?  Shift. 
'Tis but justice in me. The reason you shall know hereafter.  Sir Ol. 
Pray hear me speak.  Shift. 
Whilst I like the adder stop my ears, or did I listen, though you spoke with the tongue of Angels I am not to be altered.  Sir Ol. 
Pray make me sensible of the offence I have done, if it be any, and I will make the best of my estate to end the difference.  Mrs. Love. 
How does my heart now pant bewteen Hope and fear, to know the period of this business,  Shift. 
He show you some mercy which is this. That I will not torure you with false hopes, but make you know what you shall trust too: I have seized upon your estate already, yet that shall not suff●… therefore Sergeant do your duty: yet stay Sir Oliver, I have conditions to propose, upon which I'll free you.  Enter David. Da. 
Sir I have been at the Inn and finding you not there came back to look you.  Sir Ol. 
My journeys stopped now David, Mr Shiftwell you may propose but I imagine the next Tavern, or some other place might be more convenient.  Shift. 
With all my heart lets to the next Tavern, go send for two or three friends and discourse of it there at large.  Exit Sir Ol. Mo. and Shift. Da. 
Ha! a Sergeant on my masters back, Shiftwel has napped him, now all will out as I'll go hear.  Exit. Mrs Love. 
Now is my shame as evident as day light, O unfortunate woman! that I should have the ill-luck above all other men to meet with him, that I fear I shall find more than an honest man: but come what will, I must follow and in my Knight's cause outlook the world with confidence.  Exit. The Scene a Tavern. Sir Oliver. Shiftwel. Moneylack David and a Scrivener, Shiftwelis wife Maria and Sir oliver's wife apart as in another room. Shifs. 
Now Scrievener read the propositions.  Scriev. 
That for the injury designed to Mr. Shiftwell you will freely give him a hundred pounds yearly during his life, and after his decease to Maria.  Mo. 
Ha! to Maria, I can't conceive the reason, but I'll be silenced till the future.  Scriev. 
Secondly to make Mr. Shiftwels' wife jointure a hundred pounds per annum more during her life, and lastly to keep his wife and family twelve years, and if at the twelve years' end you intent to leave them fairly to give a quarter's warning.  (Sir oliver's wife steps out) 
Here's one says not to that but the rest for your freedom Sir Oliver I must consent too.  put off her mark and scarf Sir Oliver. 
Ha! my dear wife.  Sir Ol. W. 
You have been a hopeful husband, but blame me not if I have paid you in your coin.  Shift. 
I am amazed.  Sir Ol. W. 
Nay stare not Mr Frankfort that was pretended, you and I have been a little better acquainted, but not with a thought that your wife and my husband were such sure bedfellows  Sir Ol. 
Well then wife I hope you'll pardon me.  Sir Ol. W. 
I do and expect the same from you.  Shift. 
Well I have lost a good generous customer by the bargain, and 〈◊〉 be contented, but Sir Oliver you freely seal to these articles the last only omitted by your wives in junction.  Sir Ol. 
Withal my heart, upon the giving me a bond for redelivery of my estate.  Shift. 
That I will, only one thing more remains: that upon Maria's acceptance of the person she affects for her husband, you will pay down the marriage portion in your hands remaining.  Sir Ol. 
Most freely.  Shift. 
Then pray witness the sealing and delivery.  They seal and deliver. 
Now Sir Oliver what were have done we can't undo, therefore Mr. Moneylace: discover yourself and accept my Sister Maria for your wife.  Ma. 
And I accept him as my only happiness.  Mo. 
Dearest Lady you have raised me to a joy beyond my thoughts may heaven requite you for your kindness, and I wear out my life to do you service.  Sir Ol. 
Bless me here are wonders in riddles.  Mo. 
Sir Oliver I must crave your pardon for my rudeness.  Shift. 
There is a general pardon granted, and now good wife let's see how our ends will meet again.  Sh. W. 
I accept thee freely.  Shift. 
Then we are all friends.  Enter Serjeant. Ser. 
I arrest you Sir.  arrests Shiftwel. Mo. 
Arrest him Villain?  offers to draw. Shift. 
Pray Brother with bold a little, at whose suit?  Enter Mr Scrape. 
At this Gentleman's.  Mo. 
Then I'll end all. My noble Uncle!  Scra. 
I have a request to take my security for this Gentleman's debt, he is become my brother.  Scra. 
Your Brother?  Mo. 
Even so sir, to morrow I'm to marry this Gentlewoman his sister: release him therefore pray sir for your nephew's sake.  Scra. 
That I will Serjeant be gone I have satisfied you.  Exit Serjeant. 
And pray Gentlemen pardon my ignorance of all these proceed and Nephew I wish you much happiness.  Mo. 
I thank you Sir, come brother now to make all friends.  a dance They dance. Ship. 
Now let's in and drink each others health in  

Sack which the Gods did Nectar call,  
So end our mirth in a high Festival.   Exeunt  

Scene Ult.  Enter Radamon apparelled like a Gentleman and Shipton's Maid with a purse of Gold in her hand. Ma. 
TO be sure sir the next Nap she takes if I get not the jewel about her Neck from her: I dare promise to give you your purse of gold again, and that would go a little against my conscience.  Ra. 
Be very vigilant and fail not, then I'll make thee Mistress of all I have promised thee.  Ma. 
Especially for my having you sir for my Husband.  Ra. 
O I can't avoid that, I love thee too well my pretty smug face,  Ma. 
I thank you sir.  Ra. 
But I may stay thee too long, thou mayst miss an oppotunity: fail not to meet at the place I've appointed thee.  Ma. 
Truly sir I will not,  Ra. 
Sure this plot cannot fail, which that it may not  Aside. 

I'll to all my charming conspiraces Will bend,  
Shipton thou wilt hardly shun Hell in the end.   Exit Radamon. Ma. 
Now let me consider of the preferment that will quickly fall upon me, must I that have been obeysive to an old woman's humour become a Mistress of command: must I that have scolded, nay many times scufled for a penny, become Mistress of a purse of Gold? must I that have many times stole out in an even to kiss an Ostler, be embraced by a Gentleman, a handsome Gentleman; with a fine head of hair, neat body, strait leg, nay and another pretty property worth all the rest, and then thou art fitted for a Husband Abigal I'll warrant thee. But I have heard our next neighbour goody Belch often complain of her Husbands beating her, but I saith isle pummel my Gentleman if he beats me, but let me see, I must find out a gate to carry out my Gentility, will this Gate do?  walks above 
No it scents too much of the serving maid, well then so  walks again 
No I stretch out my belly too much and that needs not, for my Husband does promise to get me with child quickly, and then e'faith my belly will stretch out itself.  
O this then will serve  walks again. Enter Shipton. Ship. 
Ha! huswife is this your making haste when I send you of an errand, what purse have you got there? and what fine Gentleman are you to have for your Husband?  Ma. 
Pray Mistress be not angry and on my bended knees I will relate the story.  Ship. 
Cease that Ceremony and begin.  Ma. 
Why truly forsooth at the Corner of this field I met with a very Gallant Gentleman who gave me this purse of gold, and promised to morrow morn to marry me, if I would but steal that jewel about your Neck from you.  Ship. 
Indeed forsooth, well open your purse and tell your gold.  Ma. 
O heaven Mistress 'tis all stones and dirt,  Ship. 
Yes and he that gave it thee a Devil, for none else would insinuate thee to rob me of this jemne of my true happiness.  Ma. 
A Devil! O how I find my fears increase.  Ship. 
Go in Girl I'll follow and protect thee.  Exit Maid. Ship. 
This was Radamons' device: but arm me still ye powers divine that no Devils instigation does betray me: protect me even now for I find a sudden slumber seizes me.  [Soft Music and in Angel descends with a Book.] 
Shipton despair not but in hope grow strong.  
Thou shalt find Mercy though thou hast done wrong!  
Read over this book and in it thou shalt find  
The sum of thy desire to free thy mind.  
From fear, thy soul secure from harm  
Of any Devils! 'tis a happy charm!  [The Angels ascends and Shipton wakes.] 
Ha! what's this a book? the cover bears the type of innocence, I'll ok in it.  
Shipton  

In thy sorrows be not drowned  
From above thou hast mercy found:  
Think not repentance comes too late  
If 'tis unfeigned thou art fortunate!  
And though the Devil does endeavour  
To entrap thy sinful soul, yet never  
Yield, but his attempt resist,  
And he his suit will soon desist.   
O endless comfort! now attempt what you can proud Devils, but ●…s! what noise is this?  Enter Pluto and all the Devils. 

Well your business now? you see I do not quake  
That ere while made you and your Furies shake.   Plu. 
We know thy power and thy magic skill, and for the entrease of the same, we present thee with this paper wherein is a spell of Prophecy to fore tell of what was, what is, and what's to come. In his paper there is another spell powerful to command any spirit of w at nature soever,  Skip. 
Well I accept your presents but spurn at your society, all your emptations are airy and too weak to besiege my fortified soul.  Plu. 
Was ever Devil gull d so:  

Well let's descend and all Hell shall howl  
This full fortnight for loss of Shipton's soul.   [Exeunt with horrid Music.] Ship. 
So let them roar.  

Whilst I do all their Hellish Acts despise  
The higher powers make me truly wise.      

The Epilogue.  
NOw you have tasted of our homely cheer,  
Pray tell us how you like it: was it dear?  
Or else where lay the fault? pray gallants tell,  
If't did displease 'twas ill, if not 'twas well,  
But may the Ladies smile on't i'm sure then,  
'Twill be approved off by the Gentlemen!  
So pleasing both we are in hopes we may  
Expect your company another day.   

An after Epilogue spoken by Shipton.  
i've 'scaped the Devil but I fear you most,  
If your frowns appear poor Shipton's lost▪  
But now I look again, methinks I spy  
A gentle pardon in each gracious eye.  
Visit me oftener and in time you'll see  
Poor Shipton may deserve your plaudite.  
FINIS.