THE Rebellion of NAPLES, OR THE TRAGEDY OF MASSENELLO.  
Commonly so called: But Rightly TOMASO ANIELLO DI MALFA General of the Neopolitans.  
WRITTEN By a Gentleman who was an eye-witness where this was really Acted upon that bloody Stage, the streets of NAPLES.  
Anno Domini MDC XL VII.  
Nec labour, nec judicio, nec magnanimitate, nec intelligentia: sed jungantur & tunc maxima obtineantur.  
Printed at London for J. G. & G. B at Furnivals-inn Gate in Holborn, MDC II.   

 depiction of a man holding a baton and speaking, in front of imagery of a battlefield. Acchiappato il peste viala rete 

The Fis is caught, the Net is under foot,  
Whilst Fool's cry Shall I, Shall I, these go to't.  
The silly Fis, whilst left but the least water,  
And can see through the Net, think it no matter  
But Sacrifice to ' th' Net, where in they'v caught:  
Burn Incense to the Drag, that thus has wrought  
All their Destruction: Neither do they dread,  
The Divine Vengeance that is o'er their head.  
And ne'er will think themselves meet Fish to fry,  
Till great TOMASO, draws, the CY 〈…〉     

TO The Right Worshipful his Honoured Kinsman, John Caesar of Hyde hall, in the County of Hertford, Esquire.  
Sir,  
THere are many reasons wherefore I should dedicate this Tragedy to yourself: and let great Tomaso, fall at no other feet than yours: The one is, I attained to the observation of all the particulars at your charge; and reason it is, that I should tender to none other but yourself, the fruits which grew upon the fien that was grafted upon your stock. So that my writings, and Tomasoes fall, are both tributes which belong to Caesar. The most famous Poets that ever had a being, were never so well pleased with their greatest Patrons, as I am with mine: they who had the best, had only Caesar's, to be Judges of their Poems excellence: but I have Caesar not only to be my Judge, but a witness also of the truth of what I writ: nor can I fear the censure of any inferiors, after that I have made my appeal to Caesar. Sir, there is another reason which is occasioned by the remembrance of an Italian Proverb.  
Respetto son le ballie di charetza, Respect is the nurser of friendship. Sir, we have been Comrades together through divers Countries, we have been joint-purchasers of many favours, and honours; and fellow-sufferers of as many miseries: we have waded hand in hand together, through the greatest dangers, and (guided only by necessity) fording through deep and running rivers of calamities we were carried down the stream into an ocean of perplexities, out of which we were at last cast upon an Island, which upon our arrival we soon found to be our own. Such Passages as these, as they could not be otherwise then mutual obligations to one another of the highest nature, so they could be no less than the highest motives to the greatest love. Now to foster up this issue of travail, to a full proportion of respect, whereby this friendship should be maintained, I thought good to preserve it from such an oblivion, as these thin paper walls will give me leave, and to Dedicate both myself and it to be always ready at your commands, who am,  
Cousin, Your most faithful Servant, T. B.   

To the Reader.  
THough this Tragedy (for the existent part thereof, and setting the liberty which Poets use to assume to themselves aside, as their birthright by the laws of Poetry) be true, and real, and a work both begun and finished in a strange Country, and by a stranger to these proceed, yet I am persuaded that there are some, who will not believe otherwise, but that I use Duck policy in my writing, who hiding her head under the water, discovers her own nakedness. Caput inter nubila conduit. Saith another, I warrant you this man drives at notable and remarkable passages of State, if we could understand him. And though Naples be the Scene, yet he plasters his bills upon the walls and gates of London. Truly I know a picklock can do no harm to the door where there is no key to any lock: and if there be any thing in my book which points at the present condition of our affairs, I assure you the times are busy with me, and not I with the times. Types must agree with their antitypes, like a pair of Indentures, which being compared together seem one and the same, so if you take the whole substance of this Tragedy and compare it with our transactions, you will find that the same penknife never went between them, if there be any thing therefore that contents you, far well; But if ye cry roast-meat where there is no dinner, you shall have knotted bulrushes for your Salad.  
Your Servant. T. B.   

The names of the several Actors.  

D. Di Arcas Vice Roy of Naples.  
Antonio Son to the Vice Roy.  
Cardinal Filomerino  
Duke di Mattaloone.  
Vrsino Lord Chamberlain.  
Montalto Lord Controller.  
Massenello the General.  
Genuino Secretary to Massenello.  
Lord Treasurer,  
Father Antony the Hermit.  
Eletto di popolo.  
Peron Captain of the Bandites.  
Don Peppe Brother to the Duke.  
Sig. Burlameo an Ingineir, etc.   

The names of the Women Actors.  
Mariamma Mother to the General.  
Agatha Wife to the General.  
Flora  daughter to the General by a former wife.  
Ursula Youngest daughter by this wife.  
Bonella an old woman flatterer.    

Prologue.  
COurt'ous spectators, you must know that he  
Who is the writer of this Tragedy.  
Was actor and spectator in't: who means,  
Here to present it into Acts and Scenes:  
If you are pleased with truth, the story's true,  
And if with novelties, the subject's new,  
If wonders do delight ye: on this Stage  
Acted's the greatest wonder of our age.  
Or if you're pleased with seasonable things,  
Here's fightings 'twixt the people and their Kings.  
Or if sad melancholy hath you sent  
Hither for pastime, here is merriment.  
And if truth, wonder, novelties, mirth, season  
Do not content you, sirs, you have no reason.   

THE REBELLION OF NAPLES.  

ACTUS I.  

SCENA I.  Enter Father Anthony, the Prophetic Eremite, all hairy, and a death's head under his arm; he falls asleep upon his staff, awakes and speaks. Fa: Ant. 
I Shall not be able to get into any Cell: such another fit of drowsiness fell upon me, when I saw the Vision of the Sun, which the most Catholic King wears for his Crest, run back so many degrees— then was I— as I am now— ready to drop down with heaviness: he that cannot hold up any longer, must needs lie down.  He lies down, laying his head upon his death's head, and sleeps, whilst the Vision is appearing Music plays, and this Song, as a Chorus, is singing all the while. 

SONG.  
This is the state of Kingly Glory,  
Kings they are but transitory:  
Beggars they ascend the Throne,  
Vengeance light on every one.  
They w'had all things at their beck,  
Here they ride, and break their neck.  
Rise, O King, and ne'er relent,  
Here's a Throne from Heaven sent;  
With a Sceptre, Crown and Ball;  
Longest Liver must take all.  
Abundant riches shall shower down:  
Then go fetch another Crown.   Whilst this Song is in singing, there appears a Vision of little Boys: One whereof, Kinglike, in Warlike state, ascends the Throne; after that, a Company of Beggar-boyes pull down the King, throwing him to the ground, snatching away his Crown, Globe and Sceptre, who lies in a trance; the Beggar-boyes all in clusters get up into, and upon the Throne: The Throne breaks, it thunders and lightens, and they all run away. After that, melodious music; the King rises up, stands dejectedly, whilst a Throne descends from above, with a Crown, Globe and Sceptre in it; he assays the Crown, and settles it upon his head; he takes the Globe and Sceptre in his hands, and seats himself in the Throne: It reins first wheat, and then gold upon his head; he ascends up, and vanisheth. Fa. Ant. rouses himself, & speaks 
Post tempestatem tranquillitas, After a storm comes a calm; first, famine and fury; then, plenty and riches. This was not revealed unto me, but for some use that I should make thereof: What though Spain contemn my warnings, it may be Naples will not: if I can do any good, then— so: if not— so, so.  Exit.  

SCEN. II.  Enter Massenello and Genuino. Gen. 
I've given you instructions; which if you follow, the Town's ours.  Mass. 
Worthy Patron, this bulk and vessel of mine, shall strike, or hoize up sail, or tack about, agreeable to the wind of your words; and steer accordingly, and employ all her Oars, to further what you breathe. Provided always, that what you advise, be still for the good of the Republic. O the dear people of God, the too too much abused people, they shall never want my pains and best endeavours to do them good.  Gen. 
About it then, Talk is but talk, 'tis money buys land; wit commands money; discretion governs wit; expedition is the life of action, but delays are dangerous.  Mass. 
About, say you? why I'll run or fly  
To serve the Popolo, I'll live, I'll die.  Exit Mass. Gen. 
So: if my Engine holds, I'll batter the lofty Tower, that so much threatens depopulations; and levelly the high walls of Government, with the earth they stood upon: The Axe is already laid to the root of that aspiring Tree, that used such droppings on those under-succours, that they could neither rise, nor grow, and spreads her flourishing leaves at such a breadth, that her head cannot perceive the strokes she now receives, even at her root, till down she falls, that all her Royal Branches lie like sprey upon the ground: I've found a fit subject for to work upon: the man is bold and resolute, active and quick of apprehension; and prodigies run still along with his expressions: The several opinions which the world conceives of the simplicity of this poor Fisherman, shall serve for light and ayeriall corks, whilst the profound and weighty principles, wherewith I have instructed him, shall serve for so many leads and plumbers to that net, that shall take whole draughts of Politicians; that shall drive them from swimming in their deeps, and force them to such exigents, that the most contemptible and mean hands, shall take them in their shallows: and well ye have deserved it, ye ear-wigs to Kings; you that think the Sacred Unction not sufficient to anoint your King, except it mingled with the people's tears.  
'Tis you that crown the Royal Temples with Thorns instead of Gold, and put Reeds into their hands instead of Sceptres: It is you that have brought the people from feeding on the food that was ordained by God, to live on fruit ordained by you: And yet not resting there, you have put Excise on that: And worse than Caterpillars, who only were devourers of the fruit upon their trees;  crept into the poor man's basket, and eat a third part of every apple out of the children's hands: And when I withstood these impositions, as my place and duty bound me, with all the pressing arguments of pity and compassion: As if my words were charms, they stopped their ears, like Adders; and I, for my piety and good advice, was sent to Spain, upon an honourable Embassy, to carry Beleropho his Letters: which lodged me in the dungeon; so that 500 leagues, and more, I was forced to carry mine own prison, and a Letter, whose lines were all as strong as Irons. But now I'm here ready to act the sweetest of all sins, revenge: Nor will I let it fall like rain upon them, or distil my fury drop by drop, but I will pour my anger forth.  
For all is now at stake; the Die is cast:  
I'expect my chance; the Rubicon is passed.  Exit Gen.  

SCEN. III.  A noise within, crying, Down with the Excise, no Excise, no Excise, etc. Enter Massenello, with the rabble rout, with canes in their hands. Omnes. 
One and all, one and all, one and all, etc.  Mass. 
My Masters, now we are full-bodied, let us choose a Head, otherwise we shall be subject to confusion; and no man knows what to do, or whom to obey.  Omnes. 
A Massenello, A Massenello, A Massenello, etc.  They hoist him up upon men's shoulders, and proclaim, 
Tomaso Amello di Malfa, General of the neopolitans.  Enter the Eletto di popolo. Eletto. 
What means this Tumult? Wherefore are these stirs? For what's this insurrection? How occasioned is this commotion? My Masters, if from the Excise, that is on fruit your discontents arise, I'll undertake to ease all your grievances, satisfy all your desires: Let me suffer, let my Wife and Children be sacrifices for the people's good, if I procure not this good unto the people: Let my house, and all within it, suffer in the just flames of your high insensments, if I do not procure you all the contentment that your hearts can wish: Only be satisfied for the present, till satisfaction for the future may be had; which may be no less welcome unto you, then peaceable unto all.  Mass. 
Don Eletto di popolo, In answer to your grave and learned speech; you must know, that the horse now knows his own strength, and is beholding to you for his understanding, and will not answer your switch and spur so readily as he was wont: they will not take it at your hands, nor at your heels, as heretofore; they will not be rid off their legs, nor out of wind, by every hot spur; Apes must not think to ride fierce Mastiffs, and box them into conformity, now the muzzle's off.  
Sir, in a word, our pressures were intolerable; and when the Asse's back is broke, it is time to take off the burden. Our resolution's this; We will not have the lesser rule the greater strength, nor the fewer rule the multitude, nor one rule all; and that's our resolution.  Eletto. 
Noble Sir—  Mass. 
Noble Fool: dost thou think to catch Tomaso with thy courtly terms?  Omnes. 
He prates, he prates, we have had enough of this, prating, we will have no more prating.  They use violence to him. Mass. 
Andiamo.  
Viva Massenello, vi●a, viva, Massenello  Using violence to the Eletto de popolo. Exeunt.  

SCEN. IU.  Enter Viceroy of Naples, Lord Treasurer, Lord Chamberlain, Lord Controller. Attendants. Viceroy. 
MY Lord, I pray you let me peruse the Letter over again— must? the command is peremptory: I would to God, that when they send such musty Letters out of Spain, for such large sums after sums of money, they would be pleased to direct us ways how we must come by them.  Lord Treas. 
an't please your Majesty, the Excise that's laid on fruit, brings money in apace, and the tax is sure and constant; and a sum of money that will strike a great stroke into the sum that is demanded, may be advanced out of that, if it so like your Majesty.  Viceroy. 
How great sums of money out of that? Poor people! how they shrink under the burden we are forc'd to lay upon them: And having laid Excise on all things upon earth, on fire, in water, the people fly to see what immunities there are in air, and seek for privileges in the tops of trees; and how they may make free meals upon their fruit: but cruelty hath cast up such a trench, whose quicksets are now grown so high, that they have now (even) enclosed the common air.  Mont. 
Good your Majesty, be not pleased to aggravate too much the hardness either of your own, or their condition; no Kingdom wherein the people in their several degrees live more happily, then in this flourishing Kingdom of NAPLES, and under your Government: Whereon it stands, like a Mountain, firm upon its basis. Are not the Laws duly executed? Do not the Nobility live in a most splendid and glorious equipage? The Gentry in a most illustrious and seemly decorum? But as for this same Popolo, this profanum vulgus, this bellua mortuorum capitum, these Boars, Peasants and Commons, Goodmen and Gaffers, their backs were made for burdens, and their hands for labour: How will you make your sauces, if you will not squeeze your Oranges? Or Wine, if you will not press the Grape? How shall the King of Spain's Soldiers eat bread, if you will not tread the Corn out of the straw? Nature never intended, that the Ass should be stall-fed: nor did you ever hear of such creatures pampered up, till they were provender-prickt—  Vrsino. 
Come, come my Lord Controller, this is not well to pick thanks from some one or two, you draw upon your head the curses of a multitude; and to please some one, you care not though you displease all: but we have too many such now adays, it would be better if it were otherwise.  Mont. 
Lord Chamberlain, I envy not your Lordship's popularity, which I never esteemed otherwise then a seather in a fools cap.  Vrsino. 
My Lord, you said too much; if you do not understand yourself, I do; if you have forgotten in whose presence you are, I have not: However, this I shall be bold to tell your Lordship, though it be in the Kings hearing, though you have put the Ass upon the people, you shall not put the fool on me. Had we always day, we had need of no other Favours, but the Suns: but seeing we have as many nights, we stand in need of smaller lights; that favour doth not always last.  
And 'gainst the favour sets, which light debars;  
I'll think of being beholding to the stars.  Exit L. Chamberl. Mont. 
Good night to your Lordship.  Viceroy. 
My Lord, you did not well: I do not like these janglings, they bided mischief, they portend no good: my mind presages evil; and these quarrelings are a bad Omen, and put me in mind of a scurvy dream I dreamt last night. Methought I was in Spain, hunting the Tauro; and whilst I was ready for the encounter, the furious beast made at me with more heads than had Briareus hands; and methought looking how, and where to charge, standing near unto a Poplar tree, the wind blew the falling leaves so thick into my face, that I could neither see, nor breath; so that the furious beast bore me to the ground: whereupon I awaked, and found myself in the jaws both of danger and dishonour.  Enter Vrsino puffing and blowing, with the Eletto di popolo. Viceroy. 
The news, my Lord? Heaven defend us; their looks speak nothing but distraction and horror: speak out, my Lord, what's the matter?  Urs. 
I met with the Eletto di popolo; here, let him tell his own tale.  Eletto. 
O Sir, all the City is risen, commotions are in every part thereof, and the insurrection grows higher and higher.  V Roy. 
Now my dream is out: silence: go speedily, and from me, assure them of all the satisfaction can be given them.  Eletto. 
I have done it already.  V Roy. 
You did not do it from me?  Eletto. 
I have, my Liege.  V Roy. 
Do it again.  Eletto. 
I have engaged my life, the lives of my Wife and Children, and all I have, and they will not hear a word: they say, you have broken your promise with them so oft, that they will not believe a word you say, or what is said in your behalf.  V Roy. 
Away, make haste, run, fly, tell them, swear, protest, call God to witness, that I intent it, and that you know my intentions to be such, as will give them satisfaction, not only in this, but in more than they desire.  Eletto. 
I'll go; but God bless me, for I fear Hel's broke lose.  Urs. 
Now, my Lord, Sunshine: how goes the day by your Clock?  Mont. 
Marry I think it is almost upon the stroke of twelve.  Urs. 
You shall hear it strike one by and by.  Mont. 
One and twenty, with all my heart, and we may but strike a fast as they. Sir. what will you do? Will you, that I gather strength? and we will crush this Cockatrice in the egg, and destroy the Monster, whilst the Dam is in her labour: I'll be the Midwife that shall welcome it by piece meals into the world.  Urs. 
The King is wiser, or I could wish he were.  Exit L. Chamb. V Roy. 
My Lord, It is not long since your Lordship told me, that the Kingdom's Government stood firm, as doth a Mountain, on its Balance; but now it can be compared to no Mountain, except Vesuvias, whose flames do run a head, whose big swollen breast vomits out sulphurs more prodigious than that: NAPLES was then preserved from that eruption, by a contrary wind; and so it must be now too, what you breathe, or others may be pleased to think, as a present remedy, Nec vult panthera domari, the people will not, like a Town-top, fall asleep with scourging: I have seen an unruly horse, when all harsh means could not prevail, stand still with stroking: I'll try that way; when I grant them all, they can ask no more.  Mont. 
Sir, they will not be satisfied with all you grant, except you will grant yourself to be nothing.  V Roy. 
I'll warrant you; I have sent unto them, and you shall hear they will be satisfied: they are men, and men have reason, and reason will tell them when they are well.  Mont. 
I tell you, Sir, they are men, and men of reason, yet injured men; and there are Devils amongst those men; who laying hold upon the people's former discontents, sow such fears and jealousies in the hearts of the people, that nothing shall satisfy, till they have brought their Devilish, and so long hatched design, to some effect▪  Enter L. Chamberlain. Urs. 
O Sir, the people are all mad, and both their madness and themselves increase: they would not hear the Eletto di popolo, but offered violence to his person: so that he is hardly escaped, if he be escaped at all, and they are all marching towards the Palace.  V Roy. 
Go, give command the Palace be well guarded: What a tempest is here all upon the sudden?  Mont. 
O, are you advised of that now? pray God it be ned too late.  Exit L. Contr. V Roy. 
O thou Angel guardian! lead me by the hand, through this Wilderness of wild beasts and mazes, whose intricate, and so difficult wind, are never to be found out, but by the highest providence, and your assistance, keep my senses from distraction, and let no fear out my reason from its proper office.  Enter L. Contr. Mont. 
O Sir, you are betrayed by your own Guard, who most cowardly and traitorously, upon the approach of the rabble, have put out all their matches, and turned the muzzles of their muskets downwards, and stood like so many senseless statues, as if every soul had suffered an Eclipse, whilst the rout entered the gates; and possessed themselves of the Palace.  V Roy. 
Base mongrel curs: have they taught their musket-barrels to submit to Canes? and have their chines of beef bred no better spirits in the blood within their veins, then to give way to apple-feeders? Dumb dogs! could they neither bark, nor by't?  Mont. 
Sir, it is no time to expostulate, but to save yourself.  V Roy. 
Save myself: from whom? From Apple-parings? From men whose veins are filled with nothing but the juice of Plums? Shall the Sceptre submit to a company of Reeds? I, I, be gone, be gone; see how the wind blows chaff away: though none stood to me, I should think myself as strongly armed as Jove, that holds thunder enough in one hand, to frighten a world of men.  L. Contr. 
Sir, What do you mean? Your Friends have all left you, you are alone.  V Roy. 
No, thou art here, my Friend Mon●●lto; they were never Friends of mine; for Friends would never leave me thus. O adversity! thou touchstone of men's hearts; I see thou art good for something; forsaken of all; power is fallen to the ground, and no advice remains to help it up: experience, you are come too late to tell me, that,  
That Prince his Throne is stayed up but in parts,  
That i'n't supported by the people's hearts.  Exit V Roy. Massenello, and the rout, rush in; Mont. draws, and hinders them from pursuing the Viceroy. Mont. 
Stand: what would you have?  Mass. 
Silkworm: put up thy Sword: offer but to resist us in the least degree, or to disobey us but in a tittle, and thou hadst as good eat thunder, or engage lightning within thy bosom, instead of air: Where's the Vice-King?  Mont. 
I do not know; or if I did, I would not tell you.  Massenello strikes at him, and he makes his way through them all. Mass. 
Divide yourselves, and search the King there, whilst we search here.  They go out at several doors, and the first party finds him, and drags him upon the Stage. 
1. Hold; let's bring him to the Mercato; and what we do, do there in the sight of all the people.  
2. Will it please your Majesty to give me leave to take you by the collar?  
3. And I to take you by the locks?  
4. Come along, Jackanapes with a Whim-wham.  Omnes. 
Viva il popolo, viva, viva, etc.  The Viceroy putting his hands into his pockets, taketh out hands full of chikeens, and throws them up into the air; the people fall a scrabling for the gold, whilst the King escapes. Enter Massenello, and the other party. Mass. 
What's the matter?  Omnes. 
We have found him, we have found him, here he is.  Mass. 
Where? Where is he? Where is the Viceroy? What's become of him? Have you lost him? Who had him? No man speak? What's that you were scuffling for? Chikeens? How came they to be thrown amongst you?  Omnes. 
The King threw them.  Mass. 
Capitra! Was there ever known such fools, to grasp at shadows, and to lose the substance thus? You all show yourselves to be what you are, and not men likely to go through with such a work. I hope you see your error now: and that it may be so no more, seeing you have made me your General, I pronounce it death, henceforth, for any man to keep or preserve any thing, that is the estate of any Delinquent whatsoever, be they Chariots or Horses, Pearls or precious Stones,  of Gold or Silver, but let them all burn, and let Delinquents Houses be fuel for Delinquents goods; that all the World may know, we have not enterprised this business to enrich ourselves, but to vindicate the common liberty: Death and damnation be his lot, that dares transgress a tittle of that which I command.  
That all the World may know our equity,  
Were he ten thousand Brothers, he should die.  Omnes. 
Viva, viva, viva, etc.  Exeunt omnes.   

ACT. II.  

SCEN. I.  Enter Duke di Mattaloon, and Captain of the Castle, at several doors. Duke Mat. 
WHere's the Captain of the Castle?  Capt. 
Here.  Mat. 
Make haste, and call the Soldiers together, man your Walls, draw up your Bridges, load your Cannon, charge your Muskets, light your Matches, beat your Drums, call to the Parade, Hel's broke lose, and the Devil leads the dance: O, I fear me, the Vice▪ Roy hath suffered already in this tumult.  Enter L. Contr. L. Cont. 
No, he's safe as yet, though seized upon by the rudest hands, at a dead lift: the Viceroy turned Conjurer, cast a golden apparition before their eyes, and so escaped their clutches.  D. Mat. 
How Conjurer? What golden apparition? Prithee do not trifle with us now: Where's the King? What's become of him?  L. Cont. 
He is safely housed in the next Convent, where, if you send (presently) but the smallest guard, to prevent the worst; they knowing not what is become of him, you may easily conduct him to this Castle.  Mat. 
Captain, make all the haste you can, with what Guard is next at hand, and guard the Viceroy hither.  Capt. 
It shall be done.  Enter Viceroy, in a Friar's habit. Vice Roy. 
QVem queritis adsum?  Mat. 
My Lord the King, welcome, as is Elysium, to a new come soul: how scaped your Majesty?  V Roy. 
As a bird out of the snare, or as a brand out of the fire, engaged by the hairs, both of my head and beard, hands laid hold upon my collar, and no part of my body unseased on.  Mat. 
Strange outrage! and unheard of insolence! how got you lose?  V Roy. 
I showered down gold upon their heads, which loosed their hands: so that whilst they were scrambling for the money, I escaped to the next Convent, and so hither: This is the habit of Father Anthony, that holy man, whom I found there; having purposely left the Woods to forewarn me of this mischief, but happened to come in the very action, followed me into the Convent, bade me be of good comfort; told me, that all should have a happy ending; would not let me stay for any convoy, but put his habit upon me, wherewith I passed (unsuspected) through the thickest of them: This, I am sure, is well, and the other course might not have been so fortunate.  Mat. 
Happy day, and a good presage of future happiness, and prosperous success.  Enter Card: Filomarino. Card: 
Sir, I am overjoyed to see you here, and alive: but I wish that I could say, safe, and out of danger; for the place neither assures the one, nor makes you safe from t'other: I have been viewing the provisions and Ammunition of the Castle, and I find neither Ammunition for a day's fight, nor provision for a month's continuance.  V Roy. 
Captain of the Castle: how do you answer this?  Capt. 
Sir, I can sooner give to your Majesty an answer, than a remedy. Sir, besides my often solicitations of those whom it did concern; here are my Copies of Petitions to your Majesty for both, after months upon months' delays; here are my assignments for so much bullet, powder, corn and beef, wine and oil; here are the Copies of Orders to the contrary; so much of this and that for Spain; so much provision and ammunition for the Galleys; so many quarters of wheat to be sent to Genoa, to make money; sum totalis, nothing for me. Sir, if any of all these things had grown within the Castle, I would have been answerable for the want thereof: but since they do not, but must be otherwise had, I doing my endeavour, and all would not do, I hope your Majesty will hold me excused, and lay the blame on those who worthily deserve it.  V Roy. 
O miserable state of Princes! When  
They're forced to see with th'eyes of other men.  Card. 
This is no time to think of what is past, but how we may help ourselves out of the present plunge we are in: they are our Masters now, and there is no wrestling without hands.  V Roy. 
Lord Duke, you are a man in some favour with the people, and may happily do good service at this time; it would be very acceptable, if you could do any thing to appease this uproar.  Mad. 
Sir, I understand, that nothing will satisfy them now, but the privileges granted unto them by the Emperor Ferdinand, and ratified by Carolo quinto.  Card. 
You may make them believe privileges of lesser moment, to be the same; and 'tis all one to them.  Mat. 
Lord Card: If I should demand the same privileges which they require, interpretation might make me guilty of a crime as black as theirs: And if I should go about to delude them with privileges, which are not the same, and they find it out, I should run myself upon the fury of a multitude.  Card. 
My Masters, we have nothing left us now, but every man a head; which that he may keep upon his shoulders, he must make use of his brains; for aught that I can hear, they carry their business warily; their proceed speak order and method; contrivement go along with their design: Believe it, the progress they have made already, discovers a head, above a vulgar capacity; and the beast, as he goes along, shows, though many heads, yet one above the rest, by whom all are directed: So that Monarchy itself is opposed by that of its own nature; and we must play with them now at their own Weapons.  
And where the Lion's skin doth fail,  
we'll piece it with the Fox's tail.  
My Lord Duke, you have a wild Brother, Don Peppe di Caraffa, who we hear is very great with Peroon, Captain of the Bandittoes; so that by your means, he, and all his Associates, may be drawn to our part, and every one of those is worth a hundred doorkeepers: And what do ye lack? Let us call them in: yet so, as they first offer their service unto the people, and so possess themselves of the heart of the City: then shall you go with these pretended privileges; and if they take, the business is ended: if not, you have so many servants at your elbow, ready to defend you, and to bring you off.  V Roy 
Excellently well advised: we thank you for your good advice.  Mat. 
'Twas spoke like a Cardinal, and they are the men now adays, who have engrossed the exaltations of Kingdoms to themselves, and have appropriated those renowned acts unto their own order.  Card: 
Let the Queen be taught to act her part too, and to go to Massenello's Mother, Wife and Daughters, and collogue and cog with them.  
To stoop to our necessities, is Wisdom said:  
For when the Sun courts Dunghills, there are Serpents bred.  V Roy. 
Come, let's about it then, and leave no stone unturned, where under may be found our looked for safety: truly they were much to blame,  
Who put us thus to play the after game.  Exeunt.  

SCEN. II.  Enter Massanello, Gen: Mariamma, Agatha, Flora and Ursula. Gen. 
SIR, I must tell you here, in the presence of your Mother, your Wife, and Daughters here likewise, that you are much to be blamed; you have committed more goods and monies-worth unto the fire, out of mere vainglory and ostentation, then would have made you the wealthiest man in the whole Kingdom of NAPLES, and so consequently the wisest, the greatest, the best, the noblest of all the Neopolitans: for wherein is wisdom most exercised? Then, in the gaining of that which hath the unquestionable command of all things, and that's money: so far I'm right. 2. For greatness: Who is great (I pray) but he that hath the world at will? And who's that? but he that hath money at command. Now for goodness: Vnde derivatur goodness? Goodness, quasi a nest of goods: get but that, and ye are good enough. And Lastly, for Nobility: What is Nobility, but ancient riches? Get good store of old gold, it's no matter whose 'tis, and search for bags that have not seen the Sun this many a day, and then you have ancient riches, and so consequently nobility. Sir, I beseech you to take the advice of him by whose direction you have prospered hitherto: do not so vainly reject and consume that, which is only able to preserve you from oblivion; Palms and Laurels whither in the hands, and on the heads of those who wear them, but riches imbalms a Worthies memory more precious than any statues of brass or marble; and give him a more lasting fame then a memory that's preserved from oblivion by thin paper-wals.  
Were I in your condition, the first thing Iwed do, should be to build myself a house, for the honour of my name: then I would so feather my nest, that Jupiter's own Bird, who builds his nest in the Sun, should not think it a disparagement to seek alliance with one of my Chikeens.  Mass. 
Genuino, thou hast converted me, henceforth I will be covetous, high minded, glorious and haughty: and hearken to what I shall say, in order to my conversion. Genuino, the City is rich, we have the power in our hands, why should we not have the riches? The Citizens begin to thrust their thumbs under their girdles, and to make pauses at our demands, and some of them begin to look asquint already upon our actions: Hast thou not observed it, Genuino? Genuino, thou hast spoken wisely, money is all in all, and that's the thing we aim at; money is the sinews of War, and the lifeblood to action: let us suck this blood, and cut these sinews, lest they stand upon their terms with us: It is requisite that so strong a body should be thus enfeebled, when we know not how long they will take our part: let us but get a world of money, and we care not for the World. Pecunia is the Queen Regent of the World's Empire, whose divall jussements being so slenderly regarded, hath been the only cause, why none hath hitherto attained to the quintessential and fift Monarchy. And therefore Dame Nature was wisely provident, in hiding with her greatest care, this thing Omnipotent, in the very bowels of the earth; like a careful Mother, who hides her knives out of her children's way, till they know how to use them: But we are men, and know full well how to be our own carvers: Let us provide ourselves with these necessaries, and none shall live, but such as are beholding to us for doles of meat, and shives of bread: Money will ransom Kings, and make Crowns to pawn their Jewels: Therefore good Genuino, let us have money enough, the City has it: we have the City, and why should we be without it?  Gen. 
Softly, great Tomaso, you are too apt a Scholar; all that you have said is truth, and must be executed: yet so, as that they may seem to enjoy what we are Masters of: Let them be your Cash-keepers, and you shall command whatsoever they have, as readily, as if they were your Servants: Now you have made yourself their Conqueror, you must not plunder the City, nor take all away at once; for if you do not leave a nest-egge behind you, the hens will lay no more: What's theirs by providence, must be ours with prudence: We will make them give, or we will use them, as the old Wives use their cakes, when they are grown dry, put them under ground.  Mass. 
Genuino, thou sayest well; of all Nations, sools have the least wit; and of all wise men, thou art one for my money.  Mariam. 
Sir, you were pleased to talk of alliance even now; I forgot to tell you, that the Vice-Queen was here, and said, that her eldest Son should many one of your Daughters, if you will be friends with him.  Mass. 
A pox confound her for an Hypocrite; she came to abuse us, to flout and jeer us: a likely matter.  Gen. 
Not so, carry your business handsomely, and he shall be glad to seek it: Where, in all the Royal Palace, is there a prettier Moppet than this same? A wittier thing? I tell you, Sir, she is a Bed-fellow for a Prince, and a Companion for his betters.  Ursula. 
What she? marry come up; a blister on the tongue that spoke it.  Agatha. 
What say you to this girl? She's black, but lovely: If you can force him to any, you may compel him to accept of this; if he may choose, he'll choose neither.  Mass. 
I may do so, but I may choose: if you shackle Princes, you must have golden bonds, not rusty iron.  
Come Genuino, we'll go and advise about the premises, leave foolish Women to themselves.  Ex. Mass. Gen. Ursula. 
Am I but rusty iron? I think myself to be as good metal as herself: 'Twas a roguish speech.  Mariam. 
O Child, remember he is your Father.  Ursula. 
My Father? What of that? Let him use me like a Child, I am no rusty piece.  Agatha. 
As rusty as thou art, he shall thee, or none: let them consult out, as they please, 'tis your fine face that is the cause of all this stir.  Flora. 
Mother, I never thought it fine; but as it is, God bestowed it, and I hope you will not make God's gifts my fault.  Agatha. 
Go, go, you're a prating baggage.  Flora. 
Good Mother, do not build your discontents upon imaginations so improbable, and unlikely.  Agath. 
Improbable to thee, vile Wretch! but not to her.  Enter Massenello and Genuino. Gen. 
I tell you, Sir, you must not do things rashly; take advice: Where have you a King? But such a one is his right hand: Be advised, Sir, Gods themselves did sit in Council.  Mass. 
I tell thee man, thou shalt be my right hand, and my right foot, and my right eye, and my right ear, and my right, right, right, any thing, if thou wilt be quiet: thou shalt be my chief Secretary, and Counsellor of State; you shall be a Queen Mother, you a Queen; and thou, my little Chuck, the new Infanta of Neapolis. I fear nothing, but that I shall want Children, and Kindred, rather than honours and preferments to confer upon them.  Enter a Messenger in haste. Mess. 
Sir, they all expect you in the Mercato, nothing can be done until you come.  Gen. 
You may be sure of that: Who dares act any thing without you? You are the soul that gives life to the body politic, and the main Engine from whom the wheel of fortune borrows its motion.  Mass. 
'Tis well done of you, thus to let us understand ourselves.  Ex. Mass. Gen. Mariam. 
I remember, when he was but a boy, many a time and oft, when he came home from fishing, he would commend the policy of the Herring, that could make themselves Kings, by their multitudes, notwithstanding the greatness of the Whale, and other Fishes: and when I was with Child with him, I dreamed that I was delivered of a son, who as soon as ever he was born, could stand upon his head.  Agatha. 
Mother, I can easily interpret that dream for you; the King is the Head of the People, my Husband shall pull down the King, and bring him under his foot, and so stand upon his Head.  Ursula. 
'Tis very likely to be true: a very pretty inter retation.  Flora. 
I, but Sister, this should have been done as soon as he was born: for so my Grandmother dreamed.  Ursula. 
Goodly, goodly: how you come in with your five eggs a penny, and four of them rotten? The rising of the people was the big swollen belly, that contained the bully lad, that should do such feats: and my Father is not two days old, since he was so born.  Flora. 
I, but Sister, my Grandmother says, she dreamed how that my Father, as soon as he was born, should stand upon his head; if he stood upon his head, than his feet must be uppermost: how could he tread the King (then) under foot, when he stood upon his head?  Ursula. 
Why, that may very well be, too—  Flora. 
I, just as you took shipping to go for Turkey, so I lent you my horse, and you went to Rome.  Agatha. 
Vile Baggage! she's always crossing her Sister, and chopping of Logic with her; I'll chop you: Strikes her. Take that for your labour.  Exeunt Mar. Agatha, Ursula. manet Flora. Flora. 
How shall I do, to let my Mother in law, and my Sister know, I have no such ambition, as they think in me, and have themselves? I would I could as well clear their bosoms from those suspicions, as well as I can my own from such vain hopes: they are all fired with that, which warms not me: My Grandmother is highminded; my Father higher; my Mother highest; my Sister highest of all.  
And since there's no degree in height for me, I'll stick unto my old humility.  Exit Flora. Enter Major, Aldermen, etc. at one door: Mass. at another: Gen. and others. Major. 
An't please your Excellence, here is a Catalogue of the Delinquents names.  Mass. 
Have you taken examinations duly and truly? for I will do nothing but justice, all those (let me see your pen) before whose name you find this mark.  He makes a dumb sign, with his finger sawing his throat. 
You understand me, the words out; and see that there be Commissioners appointed to take an Inventory of their goods, and be accomprable to us therefore.  Enter a Messenger, and speaks softly and hastily to Genuino. Gen. 
Sir, The Bandits are come faithfully, and according unto promise: Peroon, their Chieftain; and Don Peppe di Caraffa, Brother to the Duke of Mattal. desire audience.  Mass. 
Bring them in, they're welcome:  Exit Gen. 
These are Blades indeed, that, if occasion serve, will show my Gallants School-play.  Enter Gen. with Peroon, Don Peppe, and Bandits. Peroon. 
To the thrice worthy, Tomaso Amello di Malfa, General of the Neopolitans, are we come to offer our service.  Don. Pep. 
And our lives to be sacrificed in the defence of the most worthy Tomaso, and the Popolo.  Mass. 
We accept your offer, and appoint your guard to our own person.  Peroon and Peppe make sour faces upon Massenello. 
Trumpets sound.  
What noise is that? Go know the cause.  Exit Gen. 
I am not yet well acquainted with the language of Trumpers.  Enter Gen. Gen. 
The Duke of Mattaloon desires audience and admittance to your Excellence.  Mass. 
Let him have his will, and we'll have ours.  Aside. Enter Duke di Mattaloon, with Attendants. Mat. 
Peace to this people, and happiness to Tomaso their General, as in the body natural, so in the politic; there are causes which turn the best blood into corruption; and against tumescency there are medicines to be used to keep the swelling down, and to hinder the corrupt humours from gathering to a head: if the effects may cease by taking away their causes, I have brought you cure: behold all your desires are granted, here's what you ask.  He gives Massenello the pretended privileges. Mass 
Peruse them Gen: they did well to send your grace with them: for as nothing could have satisfied the people, but that which you have brought; so nothing could have been more satisfactory, then that they should be brought by you; a man whom the people always had a good opinion of.  Gen. 
Sir, hold, I pray, your commendations are too soon bestowed; these Writings are all counterfeit, and not the privileges of Carolo quinto; upon my life they are.  Mass 
Ha? Counterfeit? My Lord, you have forseited your honour, and your honesty together; and what is more, our good opinion of you; and are indeed no better than a Traitor to your Country.  The people shoulder the Duke up and down, and begin to be outrageous; the Duke all the while applies himself to speaks. Peroon. Mat. 
Sir— Sir— Sir — Peroo— Peppe— can ye endure this insolence to be done to my person?  Peroon gives fire at Mass: and his Carbine would not off. Mass. 
If that will not off, this will.  He kills Pero with Sword. Don. Pep. 
Guard the Duke, give the sign to the Castle for sallying out speedily.  Ex. Don. Pep. with Mat. and Banditte. Mass. 
And I'll regard ye, ye fine, politic, neat, facetious traitors: give the word there: bid them all make ready: on my soul, Mat. they shall carry thee marching over this full body of resolves; but I will intercept thy passage, which shall be as difficult for thee or them to do, as to march over Vesuvias head. Drums beat aloud and call, our men together; if we stand, we stand; & if we fall, we fall.  Exit. A battle without, Drums and Trumpets sound the charge, Cannon and Musket go off, as in hard fight: Bandits pass over the stage by ones, and by couples, bleeding and led. Two Bandits drop down dead upon the Stage, one after another, the first crying out, Ploudy Traitor! could I but die tearing thy flesh with my teeth, I should die contentedly; but now, I'm fain to die only with my mouth full of wishes. He dies The second, A Kingdom for another life to lose, in venturing at Tomasoes head; but I must give out, I've lost all. He dies Then enters a brave Italian banditted Captain, having lost his arm, and speaks these dying words, Though I was right and nobly born, yet I must die the death of the Bastard Sea-Eagle, called, Halietus, who seizing sometimes on so big a Fish, that not being able to heave it out of the water, is by it drowned under the waves. I seized not on the Fish, but on the Fisherman himself: I had once hold of him, but he was too heavy for me; I lost that arm, and now this life. He dies Then enters a poor Spaniard Bandit, with a half pike in his hand, he reels and staggers up and down, at last he drops, and speaks, I was born well, I lived honourably, but I fell scurvily; I will see if I can rise up, that I may fall better; it may be, some saw me fall, not commendably. He riseth and charges his pike, and says, This pike I won from a Neapolitan, and fall, thus, with my own Trophy in my hand. He dies Then marches Matteloon hastily over the Stage, bids, Call off my Brother, sound the retreat, all's well. Don Peppe marches after him, but is shot through the back, as he was bringing up the rear; falls, his men keep on; and Peppe riseth up, upon Massenello's approach. Enter Mass. Mass. 
Where's this Villain?  Don Pep. 
Hold dog, I am Don Peppe.  Mass. 
Thou art the man I looked for.  runs him through, Don Pep 
Dogstar where under I was born! What? Did the fates ordain me to be no better than a Sprat or Whiteing, to be thus taken by a Fisherman? Yet high and mighty Prince, Tomaso, you must cast your net into the Sea once more; the Fish you looked for, is not caught:  
And though I die, the fight this comfort gives, That by my blood and death, my Brother lives  he dies Mass. 
To give thee thy due, Peppo, thou were't a brave Fellow, and 'tis pity but that thou hadst been an honest man: In all my life I never heard of a braver piece of service: And to deal plainly, I was ashamed of the odds, seeing they have done their work: They fought like Devils, or like men weary of living; they reached him into the Castle, as if it had been with a hand stretched through a Cloud; and they did it with so much ease, as if so many Sunbeams had made their way through a contrary wind. When they made a stand, they stood like a stretched out Rock against an Ocean, bidding defiance to all its Waves: And when they made their way through us, they passed like a fierce wind over the heads of corn; then wheeled about, like a Whirlwind, which raised not dust, but a smoke so big bellied wi●h fire and thunder, as with the blind thereof they conveyed this Mattaloon safe into the Castle; whilst some few and inconsiderable (O had we known it) made good the rear with a stand of fifteen naked breasts, against the power of NAPLES, until called off by order: then made their retreat as orderly, leaving a Barricado between them and us, only of the smoke of powder; which with much difficulty, my fellow Cits and Chits got over, but too late to gain any thing, save only the sight of these brave men who did this act. Only here Don Peppe lies, who rather fell into, then by my hands; and, cursed be the rage, and madness, mingled with my shame, that coloured my sword with any of his blood: But I think I rather put him out of pain, then rid of his life: Yes, 'twas so, mortally shot through the back. He views him. Well Peppe, though thou wert mine Enemy, yet I will erect thee a Monument: Death discharges all enmity, and hadst thou lived, I had doubted the success: But  
As for the rest, I make but even a scoff:  
The body's soon dissected, when the head is off.  Exeunt.   

ACT. III.  

SCEN. I.  Enter Viceroy, Card: Mat: Capt: of the Castle, with Attendants. Card: 
HAc non successit alia aggrediemur via: we must tack about again, and take another compass, before we can arrive at our wished point.  Mat. 
Wished point, do ye call it? The Devil himself would never wish for such a point, as I was like to find: the Devil a point was I likely to arrive at, but the point of death: if you have not better points then these, I will not give three pence a dozen for all the Points in your shop.  V Roy. 
My Lord, it doth not become Nobility to seem frighted into so much choler: we admired your valour, took notice of your service, and were about to give you thanks, had you not anticipated those thoughts which we were about to give breath unto.  Mat. 
When a man hath escaped hanging, I hope your Majesty will give a man leave to be merry after it; I made but a little bold with the Cardinal's language, but I am sure the Cardinal (a pox on his Rhetoric) had like to have been very bold with me: neither do I repent it, since your Majesty doth command me to be serious.  V Roy. 
If it be so, my Lord, I am willingly mistaken.  Card. 
If it were not so, I should willingly have given way to any passion my Lord should please to have been in; for loser's should have leave to speak, and I'm sure he hath lost a Brother, whom we all shall miss as soon as he.  Mat. 
Can Heavens decree have been so satisfied, mine should have paid the ransom for his life; but let us fall to considerations, how we may preserve the lives that are left more considerable.  
Lord Cardinal, 'tis you must beat your brains, that must be the anvil whereon all our safeties must be wrought.  Card. 
My Masters, we cannot expect otherwise then speedily to be besieged: if so, we must expect speedily to be brought to the several exigents of famine, and desperateness, with their Attendants, ruin and destruction. A Castle without ammunition and provision, is like a Carcase that hath neither life nor soul; nay, like a Skeleton, that hath neither flesh nor blood; therefore these must be had: And for the effecting whereof, this is my advice; Let there be Letters devised to this purpose, that the French are upon the Sea with a great Fleet, and that their design is against NAPLES.  
These Letters must be so ordered, as that they may be intercepted by the way: then if this take, and we find them sensible of the danger, you shall entreat Massenello to accept the office of General of all the Forces to be raised in the defence of the whole Kingdom. And to make this offer appear the more real, we will call upon all our loving Citizens to arm themselves (for the honour and safety of their Country) with what arms and ammunition they have need of, out of the Magazine; which is no more but what we can neither enjoy ourselves, nor hinder them of: so shall we render ourselves void of all suspicion; then shall we call upon them, as an act of the highest necessity, to provision and ammunition the Castle: Then send for Don John of Austria to come unto our rescue: so shall we furnish ourselves with what is wanting; and by a fear of others, lull them into such security of us, that we may at leisure work all our ends both by Sea and Land, and so gain time, which is only able to restore us.  V Roy. 
Your eminence speaks good advice.  Card. 
This is not all, the Queen shall go on with her old instructions, bear him in hand, with the marriage of his Daughter; assure them all excise to be taken off: promise Mass. that a stately Monument shall be erected in the Mercato, containing all the articles of agreement between you and him, and hereby add such fuel to his proud fire;  
That this detestable, and so accursed  
Toad swells, and with his own poison bursts.  V Roy. 
Lord Card. Your advice is so good and seasonable, that it needs no debate, but execution; let it be done speedily, and use our authority therein as shall be requisite.  
— Come, let us rise,  
And reduce words to actions, then we're wise.  Exeunt omnes. Enter Bonella, erecting several Chairs of State. Bonell. 
Where are you? haw!  Enter Mariam: Agath: Flora, Ursula. 
Come, sit you down there, and you there, and you shall sit there: by the faith of my body you must take state upon you now: you must not think to do as you have done heretofore: and is it not time you should? Hath not your Son all? Hath not your Husband all? Hath not your and your Father all? Doth not the King, and the Lords, and all the Evil Counsellors, hid themselves out of his sight? And doth not he command and rule all the people? Is not all at his disposing? If he bids take off a hundred heads, they must lose them: What shall I say more? In a word, he is all in all.  Mar. 
Nay, I am sure all this is true.  Agath. 
Then all is well.  Ursula. 
All the better.  Flora. 
And I must have my all too. All is but vanity.  Ursula. 
That was but a vain speech, Sister.  Flora. 
I have another all for you, then: All is not gold that glisters.  Agath. 
This girl is always crossing of her Sister: Vile Wretch!  Bonell. 
Peace: how you two are always rangling and jangling: What? can't you agree when you have all between you? You should rather agree, and plot, and contrive how you may get a share in the Government; sure he will not refuse to hear his Mother speak, I ●row; and he is a very unkind Husband, that will communicate his secrets unto his own Wife, and show all that he has unto the Wife that is in his bosom. Have not great Kingdoms been excellently governed by Women? And do you think that the Popedom itself could be so well ordered, if Don Olympia, like a good Huswife, did not keep the Keys? Come, come, if I were as you, I would see what becomes of all the Money, and all the Land, and all the Houses, and all the Householdstuff, that is confiscated; I would see, which way it went, and how it was disposed, and to what end and uses, that I would.  Mar. 
Indeed I could wish, that my Son would be ruled a little.  Ag. 
Mother, he must, and shall: What not hear his nearest and dearest Friend speak? And when 'tis for his own good? Who should he hear?  Enter Mass. and Gen. with Attendants. Mass. 
Mother, your pardon a little: Wife I pray excuse me, I am very busy.  Gen. 
What would you peruse—  Mass. 
No, no, you know I have done with the Land and Houses; I would see what sums of money were ceased on to your use.  Gen. 
O here it is.  Mass. 
Read it.  Gen. 
Imprimis, Found in the Duke di Mat: his house, 60000 Spanish Pistols.  
Item, in his Villa, 40000 Crowns.  
Item, in Don Peppe his house—  Mass: 
Don Diego Devil! how many millions is there in all? What? do you talk to me of Crowns and Pistols? Do you think that I have leisure to hear you prate of Crowns and Pistols?  Gen. 
Sir, there is eleven Millions in all.  Mass. 
So then, eleven Millions, that's something to the purpose, we'll divide it all amongst ourselves; but I've given order that 200 houses be pulled down already in the Mercato, for the building of myself a Palace; and I allow four Millions out of this money towards the work; I command you see there be Workmen enough provided, that it may be built this Summer.  Gen. 
I pray, will you speak to him? He talks so extravagantly, and doth such strange things, that I begin to fear him extremely: besides, he hath not slept a wink this four or five nights together.  Mar. 
Dear Son, I pray you, will you be ruled?  Mass. 
How? ruled by a Woman? Mother, I'll tell you a story, the glory of the English Nation and Sex: the Lady Ward was in hot pursuit of a new order of the Jesuitesses, to be granted to her, and her Sisternity, by the last Pope; which not obtaining in his days, she renews her suit at the entrance of this present Pope into his reign; she makes her addresses, fortifies her desires with the most specious arguments; the Pope sends all his Cardinals and Camarers out of the presence, pretends to trust her with the greatest secret in the world, such a one, as he would trust no man withal: whereupon his Holiness rises up, and fetches a little box, which he delivers unto her, desiring her but to keep it three days, and then to bring it unto him again; giving her a strict command, not to open it: she carries it home, her Sisters were impatient of being kept ignorant of what was therein contained; she pleads his commands to the contrary, they urge their Warrants of a Non-discovery: assuring her (undoubtedly) that whatsoever were in it, they would be sure to lay it up again, and wrap it as it was before; she yields to their temptations; the box is opened, nothing therein but a strange kind of fly, which got away, and could never be recovered, nor the like thereof: The time is come, when the box must be restored; not coming, she is sent for; sent for; cometh; there was the box, but no fly; confusion of face, and distracted looks, was all her answer: Whereupon the Pope spoke unto the Lady, as followeth, Madam, Now you see your own error, and the frailty of all your Sex together: you desire, amongst the rest of your requests, that you would have me grant unto your Order, and to your Sex, viz: the power of hearing Confessions: So, saith he, I shall commit the affairs and secrets of the Christian World, to a thing, called Woman; who from first to the last, could never let alone so much as an Apple upon a Tree, or a Bee in a Box, but they must be meddling, though it were to save or confound the whole World: Therefore, Mother, I pray keep your rules to yourself, for I do not mean to be ruled by any of you all.  Agatha. 
What, not by me, who am the Wife in your bosom?  Mass. 
No forsooth: What? hear a rib prate?  Agatha. 
O Lord! I would I had my old Husband again.  Mass. 
Why hadst thou ever any Husband before?  Agatha. 
I mean, I would I had my Husband now of the old fashion, if honours have so changed his manners, that I must not speak to him.  Mass. 
I tell thee, Wife, when I was in case to do so, thou knowst I did it; I made thee privy, heretofore, to all the secret wind and turn of my Net; and when the business was any thing intricate, you know I always called you forth to unfold the mystery, I called you ever and anon to dilate the business, and I always took your advice about the repairing and mending the breaches of that our Commonwealth; you had the fing'ring and ordering, not only of the light corks, but also of the most weighty plummets of our State; I acquainted you from day to day, how many prisoners I had taken, viz. so many Sprats, so many Whiting, so many Gudgeons, so many this, so many that, I withheld nothing from your knowledge; but now the hand of providence hath called me to hold the Scales of Justice; now, to be Precedent of a Council of State; by and by, Precedent of a Council of War: Do you think Women are sit Creatures to be consulted with? Must the affairs of State hang upon an apron-string? Look to your dishes, and see that your rooms be well swept, and never think to teach Tomaso what he hath to do.  Enter a Servingman. Ser. 
Most excellent Sir, there's several poor Citizens without, who beg admittance, and pray that you would do them justice.  Mass. 
Let them have admittance: O, I do love that work alive; I am never well but when I am doing justice; they shall have justice to a hairs breadth.  Enter Citizens, with l●ttle loaves of bread. Citiz. 
Most excellent, and thrice worthy Tomaso, we are come to complain of the great injury we suffer by the most unconscionable Bakers; who contrary to all right and honesty, have presumed to bake such loaves as these, as little as when the Excise was on foot; and want one quarter of their weight, according to the allowance.  Mass. 
Do you know the Baker's names?  Cit 
Yes, here they be.  Mass. 
Carry these men (you I say) unto their own Ovens mouths, and let their Ovens be heated red hot, and put them in, and there let them be baked themselves; which will be a terror to all Bakers, how they bake light bread▪  Cit 
How long shall they remain there?  Mass. 
No longer, but until you fee them all over of a crust, and their eyes look like parched plumbs upon a plumb cake, and then it's time to take them forth.  Cit 
It shall be done.  Ezeunt Cit: Mass. 
I think I have done justice pretty well.  Enter Servingman. Ser. 
And if it please your Excellence, there are more Citizens without, desiring audience.  Mass. 
Some others, I warrant you, come for justice: bring them in.  Enter Citizens. 
How now, good fellows, what would you have with me?  Cit 
We are come for justice to your Excellence.  Mass. 
Marry, and you shall have it, with all my heart, as freely, and with as good a will, as ever I came from School.  Cit 
Sir, here's a list of certain Butchers, who refuse to sell meat otherwise then at the same rates they did, whilst the Excise was up.  Mass. 
Carry these men unto their own slaughter-houses, and there let them be knocked on the head, as they knock down their Oxen; and let their throats be cut, as they used their Calves.  Ex. Cit 
I think I shall do such justice,  it be long, that all the World shall admire me.  Enter Servingman. Ser. 
Sir, there are more Citizens without, with a Petition to your Excellence.  Mass. 
Let them come in: O, I am in my Kingdom now! O, how Godlike it is, to rule and sway! I could be contented to forsake meat, drink and sleep, so that I might be doing of justice.  Enter Citizen, and deliver a Petition. Mass. 
Genuino, read it.  He read●, The humble Petition of 200 poor Citizens, living in the market. 
Humbly showeth,  
THat whereas your said Orators were seated and possessed of good and substantial houses, and dwelling places, in and about the Mercato; and that by direction from your Highness, the said houses, to the number of 200 are ordered to be pulled down, to give way to the building of your excellency's Palace.  
Now, forasmuch as your excellency's said Orators are utterly deprived of places of abode:  
They humbly pray, that your Excellency will be pleased to take the premises into consideration, and either to give satisfaction to the said Inhabitants, for their said dwelling houses, or else to provide some other places of abode, whereby they may be disposed of otherwise.  And your Orators shall pray, etc. Mass. 
So I will, and that presently: let them be all sent to the Galleys, and there let them make their abode: What? When the foot of Italus his leg was in the grave, I took it by the small, and reached it out again: When an Ocean of calamities had overwhelmed the Land, I made that Sea run back, and keep its channel: and do you now grudge me a place to build my house in? Ungrateful Monsters! you shall soon know, what punishments are belonging to so great a sin.  Cit: kneel. Cit 
Your pardon, gracious Sir, we acknowledge our fault, and are hearty contented that your will should be fulfilled; now we understand ourselves, and do humbly beg your pardon.  Mass. 
Lie down flat upon your bellies then: so,  
Now you may rise up again, and go.  Cit 
Call you this the liberty of the Subject? and the property of what is ours?  
I would we had our old Government and Governors.  Exeunt Cit: Mass. 
I am not only good at justice, but I can be as good at mercy, if I please.  Gen. 
Sir, Did you not perceive how they muttered forth their discontents at the present Government and Governors?  Mass. 
I did, my Genuino; but they shall find me of the nature of the Cock, that crows over the same dunghill, whose unnatural heat gave him so untimely and preposterous production: Their hands have reared me up, but I shall not be so easily dissolved, as are their bears of snow, which their hands have made unshaped, and melted to a shapeless lump, with the least shower of rain: Tomaso is more hard and lasting then brass or marble; not to be reduced to nothing, by the greatest showers of tears, that possibly can fall from the people's eyes. These Citizens, if they abound with such bad humours, as I see they do, I'll purge them, even to the excoriation of their guts, and make them to commend my do, as men use to praise the biting Mustard with tears in their eyes. I'll be their Oracle myself, and mean to confine all truths to my own mouth: I'll be their Colossus, all their Ships shall sail between my legs, and their money shall all run between my fingers: I am not what I am for nought.  Gen. 
Brave Tomaso, how like thyself thou speakest, provender pricking hath made them cast their first Rider; and they will cast you too, if you do not hold them to hard meat.  
The corruption of estates is the generation of Soldiers; whilst you drive away their trade, you drive on your own: and what injury is it to them, to be first made beggars, and then to be paid with their own coin?  Mass. 
Excellently well advised, my good Genius! How excellently thou speakest!  Enter Servingman. Ser. 
Sir, The Major and Aldermen are at the door to wait upon you to the Mercato.  Ser. whispers. Mass. 
'Tis well then, I shall have justice business enough to last me all this day; and I'll lay it on, let whose will take it off. Daughter, anon the Prince will visit you, see that you are fit to entertain him in every respect.  Ex. Mass. Gen. Mariam. 
Truly my Son is strangely altered of late, he is not the same man he was wont to be.  Agath. 
Not suffered to speak to him, despised and jeered at every word; you hussee, can talk with him in private, and have whole hours discourse together, when his Mother and his Wife, I and his Daughter too, as good as you, are not thought worthy to speak to him.  Flora. 
He is my Father; and what I do, is but in order to that obedience, which I own to him; I cannot be justly accused of any intrusion upon his privacies, and for the common subject of his Discourse, it is as unpleasing unto me as to yourself.  Agatha. 
Hang you liar, I don't believe you.  Ursula. 
It is a very likely thing; for when my Father calls her to his privy Chamber, O how she trips it along as she goes! How her colour rises! How she starts up when she is called! And makes such haste! I would not be guilty of such dissimulation for the World.  Flora. 
I would not be guilty of so much cruelty for ten Worlds.  Agatha. 
What cruelty, you stinking baggage?  Flora. 
Not to believe a body, when one speaks truth: to chide a body for that, which one cannot help: to envy me, for another's ambition: and, in a word, to make my duty to my Father, a displeasure to my Mother.  Agatha. 
Vile Harlot! I'll make that face, the make bate of this divided family, as homely and deformed, as wounds and scars can make it. So, now let the Prince come and visit you, and tell me how he likes you.  She stabs her into the face. Enter Mass. with the Prince. Mass. 
Where's my Daughter? Where's Flora? I will show you a rare flower indeed.  Prince. 
It seems, there was a battle fought in the field, where this flower grew, and too much blood fell to her share.  Mass. 
Fury, this was thy do.  Agath. 
Hands off: what and if it were?  Mass. 
Then thus I'd use her that did it.  He breaks her neck between his hands. Flora. 
O me! Father, what have you done? It had been better mine eyes had been stabbed out of my head, than left me to behold an act so barbarous.  
O, Father; you have played a Butcher's part:  
She stabbed my face, you strike me to the heart.  She offers to go away. Prince. 
Stay, gentle Virgin; let me hear how this business is, before you go; pray let me hear how 'twas, for it concerns me now; I came to be your Servant, and to elect you for my Mistress.  Flora. 
O Sir, I am altogether unworthy to be your Mistress, or your Mistress' servant; it is enough, that I am your Martyr: wherefore I humbly beg you pardon, Sir;— for I  
Have blood to stench, and also tears to dry.  Exit. Prince. 
A lovelier face I never saw: But, is she thus amiable, when she wants those compound ornaments of blood and tears?  Mass. 
Sir, you did but see the Sun behind a Cloud, or the Moon in an Eclipse, when you beheld my Daughter how: I tell thee Prince, thou shalt see her when her face is washed; and, if the scars have not too much disfigured her, you'll say, you saw a Queen, if beauty has dominion.  Prince. 
She talked of being my Martyr, as if she had received those wounds for my sake: how was that?  Mass. 
She did so; and 'twas thus: Flora is my Daughter by a former Wife, that Blackamoor mine by this: This envious Woman, envying the happiness that your affections might throw upon that other Daughter, intended the ruin of her face, to make way for your addresses to this foul Dowdye: when, alack,  
Her outside's not so swarthy, as her inside's black.  Prince. 
She's my Martyr then indeed; methought she looked very prettily, when the blood and tears ran races down her cheeks; and methought they did no more disfigure her, than streamers of red and white do misbecome the goodliest ship; and methought she carried a great deal of modesty and humility, both in her speech and countenance.  Mass. 
Sir, she is so full of humility, that I protest unto you, I could never get her to open an ear, or to leak into her the least thought of what is now. I could ne'er make her believe it: Father, saith she, forbear this vain discourse; 'tis just such another likely matter; as if you could make me believe, that you could turn the Horses of the Sun into your Cow pasture.  Prince. 
Extreme witty! I shall be in love with this girl, I see.  
Whatsoever my Father and you  
Do, let you and I agree; you go about  
Your business; I'll go seek my Mistress out.  Exeunt. Enter Major, Alder: Mass: Gen. Major. 
Most excellent Sir, we have intelligence, and it comes several ways, and from very good hands: but one especially amongst the rest, to whom we give most credit, is, a Letter to the Viceroy, which we intercepted, thinking it to have contained matters of other consequence; which assure us, that the French are upon the Seas with a mighty Fleet, and they say, their design is, for NAPLES: Sir, we thought fit to acquaint you with the business.  Mass. 
Most excellent Sir, have you provided the money for the Army, I sent unto you for? I think fit to acquaint you also with this business.  Major. 
Sir, the money is most willingly ready, and most readily willing they were all to pay it.  Mass. 
Then most readily willing, and most willingly ready I am, that you should on to your other business.  Major. 
Sir, I have spoken the business already, it is concerning the French.  Mass. 
What a pox do we care for the French? or the French with a pox? I would they were here, I long to be doing, now I have command and men enough.  Major. 
I, but Sir, we are at odds among ourselves, and 'tis to be feared—  Mass. 
I tell thee, Major, I'll be friends with the Devil, and salute his Dam, before the French shall have any thing to do here: and because they are so forward, we'll begin with them first: Go, and see that the heads of all the French men within NAPLES, be cut off (speedily Go without any more ado, they shall have justice, I warrant you; justice hath not been executed a great while, and now it takes its course: O how pleasant a thing it is!  Exeunt two Alder: 
Sound Trumpet.  Gen. 
Hark Sir! a parley from the Castle.  Major. 
Upon my life, it is about this business.  Mass. 
It comes very seasonably and welcome; let some know who it is that desires to treat with us.  Exit Gen. 
If the King grants what we ask, then 'tis likely we shall do— what we please, so something may be done.  Enter Gen. Gen. 
It is Card: Filomarino, who humbly desires to mediate between the King and the people.  Mass. 
Bring him in; I never spoke with a Cardinal yet, but I believe I shall be hard enough for him.  Enter Card: Filomarino. Card. 
I am sent by the King, unto the most excellent Tomaso, and to the rest of the most faithful Neapolitan people, to acquaint them with what great dangers we are all in, by reason of a sudden and unexpected invasion by the French, which is like to find us in all the confusions and distractions, that are able to give them the greatest advantage, and us the most unavoidable ruin that can befall a Nation, destinated to destruction: Wherefore, in regard we may, perchance, want this very time, which we bestow in words, to employ upon more necessary actions, he desires the most excellent Tomaso in the first place: secondly, all his loving people, that they will open their ears to peace, and accept of all that ever he can do, or grant, in pursuance thereof; and that every man that wants arms, or ammunition, will speedily repair unto the Magazine, and there furnish themselves with what is wanting: then the most excellent, and thrice valiant Tomaso, is desired, by his Majesty, and the whole Council, to admit of the conduct of these men against the enemy; an act of oblivion to pass, and all to be well.  Mass: 
Card: What is it that the King will do?  Card: 
What is it that you would have him do?  Mass: 
Take off all Excise, all, all, all, all, etc.  Card. 
It shall be done: I'll undertake it.  Mass: 
And an oath never to set any up again.  Card: 
Not only so, but I will tell you more: there shall be an everlasting Monument of Marble set up in the Mercato, containing the articles of Agreement between the most excellent Tomaso, on the one part; and the Vice-King, on the other.  Mass: 
Now you say something, Card: this is something to the purpose; but there is something behind, which must be done— or else, though all the French in France should fly in the air, like so many Crows into the Land; or come by water in shoals, like Herrings, yet will I not hear of peace, or believe a word you say.  Card: 
Sir, these hands of mine shall bind them both together, but not a word of privileges.  Mass: 
Not one word, but mum: Let the Monument be speedily erected, and the Agreement sworn unto; for Card: we must have no delays, for they are dangerous.  Card: 
We will go presently to the Viceroy, and have him confirm what is agreed upon: in the interim, your servant presents you with this, as a little pledge of great good will, and this.  He presents Mass: with a suit and cloak of gold, and a chain of gold. Mass, 
Think you, that chains, or  of gold, can add? or the want of such poor toys, diminish from Tomaso's worth? He's very barren of just merit, that borrows respect from the earth's garbage: No, Card: I tell thee plainly, I think myself no more disparaged by these , than the Sun thinks himself disgraced by Clouds.  Card: 
The most excellent Tomaso speaks admirably: I must confess, the richest apparel sets him out but meanly, who always goes so clothed with renown, and can put on new wonders every day: But Sir, I have known those, who would value pins, and rings of rushes, when they proceed from a heart that truly honours them: such is mine: such is my Present: such may your acceptance be, and it will be the greatest obligation wherewith I ever was obliged.  Mass: 
Well, I'll wear them for your sake, Card: you and I must be better acquainted; thou art an honest man, and speakest truth, I love such an one: but hark you in your ear—  Card: 
Yes, yes.  Mass: whispers. Card: 
I, I, leave that to me.  Mass: 
Come, let us go then, why this is excellent; nothing but ask and have: a brave World, if it will hold.  Card: 
O tempora! O mores!  Exeunt omnes.   

ACT. IU.  

SCEN. I.  Enter Prince, with Flora in his hand, with patches on her face. Prince. 
I Tell thee, sweetest, envy has done thee a courtesy, to make thee look ten times lovelyer than thou didst before. I protest, as it is my chiefest delight to look upon thee, so it will be my chiefest happiness to enjoy thee.  Flora. 
Sir, as it would be an over-high presumption in me, to believe all you say: so to say, I do not believe you were in civility, though but to a Gentleman, but to my Prince it is rebellion: you say, you love me; nay, you protest you do, and swear it too; I, and that in an honourable way; 'tis a Prince's word, a Prince's protestation; 'tis a Prince that swears, if any thing can distil into my faith, the least dram of belief out of these professions of yours, it must be this; That it is as possible for me, Nature's ruff cast, Envies ruin, Poverties child, to appear acceptable in your eyes, as it is possible for so good a Prince as you, to swear and vow otherwise then what your heart directs you.  Prince. 
Dearest Love, necessity requires your speedy assent; and for my love, which you seem so much to doubt of, rest you satisfied.  Flora. 
O Sir, that word, Necessity, is that which wounds my heart; for indeed it is necessity that sends you unto me; there being as little merit in me to invite you, as love has reason to bring you hither. She weeps. O Sir, I beseech you, have pity upon me, and let me not be thrown into Paradise over the Wall, where my entrance shall be my ruin; or fling into your arms, or forced into your bed, for than I shall fall no welcomer than dirt, upon your cheeks; and show in your arms no otherwise then reeds and rushes, which a sinking man is glad for to embrace, to save his life. O, rather than so, most Princely Sir, I beg this favour; She knelt. I will be contented, that it may be so contrived, that to satisfy my Father's high ambition, it may be given out, that we are married; and so ordered, that there may be no doubt made thereof, until all be settled: then shall the most excellent Prince choose him out a Wife, amongst the race of Kings, that may be worthy of him; and bless me with the happiness (only) of waiting upon her: for I had rather fall to my old contentment, of sitting alone by the Sea shore, mending my Father's nets; where I could fancy the pebbles to be my Subjects, and the Waves my Courtiers, then to sit with you upon a Throne, where I am not as well seated by your liking, as guarded by your love.  Prince. 
How prettily she pleads against herself! and how forcibly she attracts honour, by flying it! Come, Flora, thou art mine.  Flora. 
Remember yourself, and know who I am; I am a Fisher's Daughter.  Prince. Starts & turns aside. 
A Fisher's Daughter is no good sound: Why did she trouble my ears with it? Let me see; why it is impossible that humane nature can be so much above itself, as is the nature of the Gods above humanity: and yet we know, that the Gods themselves have been suitors unto that which we call, Woman; and if I make choice of her, none can say, I have transformed myself into a Beast, a Bird, or into a thing that is inanimate, as have the Gods.  Flora. 
O, how my trembling heart expects the event of this sole conflict!  Prince. 
Thus it is Resolved upon the Question, if you will have it so, Necessity shall marry the Fisher's Daughter: but I'll have thee; thou, not by constraint, but by affection; not by compulsion, but by free choice; not to be the Joan make-peace of our Land, but as one who best deserves my love, and merits me.  Flora. 
Can there be a distinction then, between me, and the Fisher's Daughter?  Prince. 
Yes, Flora, such a one as the Sun makes between a vapour and an exhalation; which being one and the same thing, whilst it cleaves unto the earth, is but a fog: but being exhaled and drawn up nearer towards the Sun, it appears as glorious as itself.  Flora. 
Great Prince, whose lasting fame is such, that flatteries can neither hurt, nor hyperboles reach, if I were good at either: with what faces will the honourable Women look, when they shall see such a one as I, as your Bride, delivered into holy hands, to be made yours?  Prince. 
With such like faces of wonder and amazement, as the household Gods did look, when mortals were exalted above their nature, and had their constellations in the highest Firmament, globed by the breaths of all the Gods, whilst they were tied to residence in tabernacles made with hands, and yet durst neither envy nor complain.  Flora. 
Sir, You speak such high language, that I am afraid you exercise Rhetoric, rather then Love.  Prince. 
I here engage my honour, as deeply, as the most unfeigned heart can direct a tongue how to oblige it, that I rather want language to express my love, then am either vain, or dissembling, in any thing of all which I profess.  Flora. 
Why then, Sir, I can answer you no more, but in this language— weeps— Speak, speak apace, my best Orators; speak out and tell him the news from whence you're come; he's good, and may, perchance, give credit—  Prince. 
Hold up, celestial showers, you'll drown a little World: the precious distillations are in value next to penitential tears, wherewith the gods oft drink themselves to such a height of kindness, that they forget that they are just— Weep upon my bosom, and make the soil fruitful in the increase of that, which thine own just merit hath there swoon with a full hand: What! doth she sink under the burden of her She sounds. own joys, Flora, my Flora, cannot my voice recall thee sooner than waters, my affections are above their heat Flora, my dearest, dear Flora, where hast thou been? what dost thou mean to do?  She comes to herself and finds her arms about his neck. Flo: 
Sir you may see my senses were all fled, when mine arms presumed to embrace that Sun it should adore, they are of too base mettle to make a chain for that neck.  Prin: 
Object that fond objection no more (I charge you) I consider thee now as thy father's daughter, as thy Father's Daughter now, I say; who at this time stands the absolutest of Monarches, and commands all, me, Kings, and Vice-Kings, and the greatest Princes, nor do I think otherwise then that the Fates prodigiously raised him up to this greatness to make thee my equal, I am not a Secretary of their State, nor privy Counsellor to their wills, but whatsoever their Decrees are, I take it so, and so take thee.  Flo: 
Well then, I'll tell you what I will do for you, I will be faithful to you, I will never offend you, I will always love you, when I am with you, I will be a servant ready to observe and put in execution all your desires, and when I am out of your sight, wheresoever I am, I will spend my time in studying how I may next please you when I come into your presence: when you ride from home, I will get up upon the wings of prayer, and will importune Heaven that no bad influence from their Stars may hurt you: I will so charm the earth with the often falling of my tears, that no noisome vapour shall arise to prejudice my love, and when you go into the wars I will have fervency enough in prayer (lawfully) to make you shot-free. When my Love shall charge his enemies the mouths of their Guns shall lose their voices, and their bullets when they come near my Lord, shall forget their message, I'll so prevail with—  Prince. 
Away, Away, thou little fool, thou: 'tis the preriest little fond thing that ever I saw, what dost thou do, nothing but weep, she weeps: I'll d●y up your rears for you: Come, he kisses her. Will that do it? the earnest of my heart's union: the seal of all that ever I have said or promised; the assurance of what we are now going about, without more delays.  
Let each man envy, what the gods shall praise.  Ex●unt.  

SCENA II.  Enter Vice Roy, Card. Prince, etc. Vice Roy. 
How do you like your Mistress, Sirrah?  Prince. 
Well Sir.  Vice Roy 
Not very well I believe.  Prince. 
Yes very well.  Vice Roy. 
Truly?  Prince. 
Truly I do.  Card. 
You are not taken with her?  Prince. 
So much taken with her, that I'll take her, and bless the fates which threw me headlong into so great happiness.  Vice Roy. 
The boy's in love upon my life.  Prince 
Sir, I'll tell you, I went unto her as if it had been some miserable Ward forc▪ d by his Tyrant Guardian to a piece of some deformity, and to be sacrificed to some soul beast, to preserve a fair estate; but when I came into her presence, I found the world could not parallel her for beauty, when I conversed with her; I saw she was matchless for wit, behaviour, language, or any thing, that might complete or adorn the most accomplished of all her sex: nor shall all the riches in the world invite me for to seek another Mistress; rather than the meanness of her condition, should be thought a consideration why I should not have her, I would descend to her capacity and tu●n fisherman. Nor lies it in the power of art or force of argument to wean me from her.  Vice Roy. 
Good Son, we are all glad she likes you so well, we were all afraid we should be feign to use both art and argument, to draw on your affections. But Indeed I have heard many commend her for a pretty girl.  Enter Servingman. Ser. 
Sir, Massenello is coming towards the Palace.  Card. 
I'll go and bring him in.  Vice Roy. 
By all means. Son, remember you ask your father blessing when he comes in.  Prince. 
Sir, I shall ask him for a blessing, and the greatest blessing: that any man alive can give me.  Enter Massenello taking the right hand of the Card. all in gold. Attendants. V Roy, 
Tomaso is welcome to us very opportunely, for my son was (even) upon your entrance in a high encomion of your daughter: truly in a word he's over head and ears in love with her, and I am glad to see it.  Mass. 
Vice Roy, you have reason for what you say: and I hope there is no love lost; my daughter loves him as well, and though I say it, she is a match for the best Prince in Europe.  V Roy. 
I make no doubt of it.  Mass. 
But I have not heard your Son speak, yet, concerning her, let me hear how you like her from your own month.  Prince. 
Sir, I like her as a new come soul likes Elysium, and with the same affection that the most ambitious man likes sitting in a throne crowned with his own hearts desires.  Mass. 
Why then young man thou'rt happy, when will you marry her?  Prince. 
When will the hunger-starved wretch eat meat? or the thirsty soul quench his flames? or the man that is a cold come near the fire; but as soon as ere he can.  Mass. 
Why then to morrow is the day, how says the Vice King.  V Roy. 
With all my heart, the sooner, the better.  Card. 
Come then we will to the Archive scovato, and there you both shall solemnly swear before the high Altar to perform all the Articles which are agreed upon between you both, in the behalf of the new made happier Neopolitans, and by this the Monument containing the articles agreed upon, is erected in the Mercato, and from the Cathedral, the Cavalcato in the greatest pomp, shall bring you both as pairs coupled in the same desires of procuring your Country's good, and there before all the people, you shall consecrate the Monument with your presence; and let them all see how in your peaceable intentions you both meet in parallels like Apollo's twins, and from thence unto the performance of those nuptial rates which shall make the peace between you everlasting.  Mass. 
The Card. is a good man, he speaks well, but when shall this be done, Card.  Card. 
Come one thing first, another at the heels,  
When all's concluded action runs on wheels.  Exeunt.  

SCENA III.  Enter people running over the Stage after French men, they take one. 
1. HAh monsieur, have we taken you, off with his head.  Mouns. 
O pardon a moy ie vous some pric.  
2. monsieur don't be afraid, we won't hurt your locks, we'll only cut off your head.  Mouns. 
Vat have I done to you Gentlemen, mort dien?  
3 Take heed of his Mistress favours there.  They cut off his head. Enter people with two more for Frenchmen, but one of them is an Englishman. Omnes. 
More sacks to the Mill, here's a couple of Mounsiers more, they are cutting off, I know not how many Mouns. heads every where.  One cut off. English. 
'Swounds, I am an Englishman, English man, English man, Engleterra, Engleterra.  
2. He cries Engleterra, Engleterra, and the Rogue speaks French.  
3. You don't know, it may be English for aught you know.  
1. A pox confound him, he's a Frenchman, you may know him by his points hanging at the wrong end of his breeches.  
2. Away with him then, off with it, off with it, cut off his head, let it be cut off, though there were no more heads in England.  English. 
Damn me, and ram me, and sink me, I am an Englishman; what a devil do you mean to dye with me, I am an English man, I tell you, what won't you believe a body when a body tells you the right: Sounds I am an Englishman; hell confound you all for a company of Arse-wormes, Turky-drivers, and Goat mongers; what a devil would you have? won't you believe a body with a pox?  
3. Pish, pish, you may see he is a Frenchman by his locks and favours, and by his garnished cotpeece.  Omnes. 
Away with him, away him, cut off his head.  He makes resistance. English. 
What a pox are you, are all stark mad? is there never a wise man amongst you, that understands English.  They use violence to him, he raves. 
A plague confound you all, a devil's dogs couples, hags and furies light upon you, for a company of hog dogs, and cow-dogs, and vinegar-bottles.  Omnes. 
If he will not be ordered, hold up his head, and cut his throat.  They hold him by the nape of the neck, he spits in their face like a Cat, at last cries Boo, and frights them; in which interim, comes two English Merchants by and speaks. Merch. 
Hold Gentlemen, hold I pray you, he is an Englishman, we know him.  
3. You came in a very good time, or else you had sound your Countryman shorter by the head.  Exeunt people. English. 
Shorter by the head ke they? hearlikins; I was never in such a fear in all my life: a pox on them for a company of blockheads, they could not understand sense, nor hear reason; a company of cuckoldly curs, take my head off: 'Tis more than they could do, or else it had not been on now.  Merch. 
You are well enough served, you must be in the French-fashion forsooth, with your all a mode de France, with your locks, favours, and ●ibbans.  He cuts them off, and throws them away. English. 
Got by it: nay what had I like to have lost by it? for I am sure I had like to have lost my head by it which is more than ever I should have got by them as long as I had lived; but if they ever find me with your all a mode, de France, as you call it, I'll give them leave, not only to cut off my head, but to make a devil of me when they have done, pray change cloaks, and hats with me.  The Merchants charge  with him, and were likely to lose their heads by the mistate. Enter a Citizen with a French man's head in one hand, and his falchion in t'other. English. 
Do you hear friend; what's the price of your Codshead?  Cit 
You see what it is, 'tis a French man's head.  English. 
I pray let me have it, I will give thee money for it.  Cit 
What money will you give me?  English. 
What money will you ask?  Cit 
A French Crown.  English. 
What shall I crown him now his head's off, he'll be little the better for that.  Cit 
You shall have it for half a Crown.  English. 
What shall I give thee for that sword?  Cit 
Yours.  English. 
Thou shalt, for this is an all a mode de France too, I'll endure 'em no more.  He changes his brave Sword for a rusty Scimitar, passes two Frenchmen over the Stage, and taking the Englishman for an Italian, are in great fear. Eng. 
Fee fo fum, hoh what are you French men?  
1. French, Mercy, Mercy, Mercy, Mercy: Making pitiful faces.  He kneels, and the English man lays his sword over the first French man's head and says, 
Eng. Rise up Sir Christopher Boon-grace.  
2 French, A Sir, you be the good Englishman, me can spreake little English, me have been one, two, three times in London, spare you me I pray.  Hec takes him up by the chin. 
English, Come thou shalt see London the fourth time You must not be so fearful, had I been so tame as you, whereas now I am a cutter off of heads, I might have carried mine own head thus.  Enter Citizens passing the Stage. Citiz. 
Who have you there?  Eng. 
They are English Gentleman of my acquaintance.  Exeunt omnes, French hugging the English.  

SCENA. iv  Enter a guard with attendants, V Roy. Mass: On his right hand the Card: on his left hand under the same Canopy into the Mereato a monument of counterfeit marble, with articles inscribed behind a curtain, The Curtain drawn Trumpets sound, Card. 
BEhold the hierogliphiks of our peace and happiness, the landskipp of a joyful Country, the Map of a world of good that is derived unto us by this days happiness, a monument which gives the best characters of the most wise King, and the most invincible Tomaso, here is the original, peruse it and see if they agree not.  V Roy. 
They agree to a word.  Mass. 
'tis well, but is't not pity that the wind should blow upon it? or that the rain should fall upon so fair a piece? or that the Sun should fade any of its colours? or that bold and forward hands should sully any of its precious stones? or that time itself, should eat, this, with the rest of things?  Card. 
Most excellent Sir, I have given directions for a safeguard of Iron, whose bars shall be so high and sharp, that not any shall be able to behold it, otherwise then at their due distance.  Mass. 
But Card: have you made any provision against Wind and Weather? that time itself may never fill her paunch with such bits, as are too great dainties for such a common feeder.  Card. 
What the most excellent Tomaso shall think further fit to the preservation of that which preserves so great fame, we shall be glad admirers of, but for my own particular, I have given no further directions concerning it.  Mass. 
Then I shall, where's Sig. Burlameo.  V Roy. 
It was nobly resolved on.  Enter Sig. Burlameo. Mass. 
Burlameo I will have thee post to Egypt (hah dost thou stare upon me?) and there take pattern of the biggest Pyramid that's there, and make me a shelter over this monument fifty cubits higher than the highest of all Egypt's Pyramids, and that shall be a Penthouse to keep it from the rain, so that that greedigut Time shall find it the hardest bone to pick, that to feed upon it, it shall loosen the old teeth of aged time, that they shall drop out faster than these stones shall fall, and at last find it meat of so hard digestion that time itself shall take so great a surfeit that it shall cease to be.  
And dying yield unto eternity.  Omnes. 
Ah Massenello, ah Massenello, ah Massenello.  Card 
This is enough to make him stark mad, let's follow h●s humour.  Burla. 
S● I hear you, and having taken measure of your mind, Il● f●● i● to a hair,  Card. 
When the d●vill's blind, your resolutions are like yourself, great and glorious.  V Roy. 
This age is happy that hath produced a man fit for so high and mighty undertake.  Mass. 
Now nothing's left undone, but that which must be done, the marriage.  V Roy. 
That shall be done, to morrow is the day.  
That Hymeneus asks us leave to play.  Exeunt.  

SCENA: V.  Enter Ursula and Bonella. Ursula, 
Is the Apothecary coming? prithee go and fetch him to me, and stay you without.  Bon 
I'll fetch him presently Madam,  Ex Bonella. Urs 
My Mother's death I will revenge on her who was the cause of it, besides ten thousand hazards I will run, before I'll suffer her to prince it over me, that face which age could neither blemish nor years decay shall look as pale as death can make it. I'd rather die myself then she should live to be so much above me, and thought worthy of so high estate whilst I neglected, stand like a forlorn hope perishing for want of seconds, and why? because I am black and she 's fair, marry muff: I think my penny as good as here's.  
Pepper is blaeke and hath a good smack,  
And every man will it buy:  
When Snow it is white, and lies in the dike  
And every man let's it lie.  Enter Apothecary. 
Honest Apothecary I sent for thee to do me a pleasure, I am so troubled with Rats in my chamber that I cannot be quiet for them, I pray thee teach me a way how I may destroy them.  Pot. 
Madam I will fetch you some Rats-baine immediately.  Vrsu. 
No, no, That's but a scurvy weak poison, they'll take it and live so long after it, that they'll creep hehind the Wainscot and get into holes, and there lie and stink, able to poison any living soul, I would have a quick dispatching poison that shall work presently upon them that they shall not stir from the place.  Pot. 
Mad: I warrant you, I'll fetch you such a poison as shall do the feat.  Ursula 
Why well said honest fellow: here's for thy pains.  Pot. 
I thank you Madam, I never was so rewarded for killing of Rats, I pray God she puts it to no worse use, but why should I suspect any thing, she pays me liberally.  Enter Prince with Flora in his hand. Flora, 
My Lord, though I am not worthy to indent with you, or engage you to the least promise, yet I may be in capacity of begging a favour at your hands:  Prince, 
What is it? and command what lies within my power.  Flo. 
Here is my only sister, please you to take notice of her, and let her be within your thoughts to make her happy.  Prince 
As happy shall she be as industry itself can find out ways to make her so-  Ursula. 
I thank you Sir: I pray Sister keep your happiness to yourself, I do not desire to be made happy by you.  Enter Apothecary. 
She flings out of the room, and takes the Pot. with her, remains in occulto.  Prince. 
What an unmannerly sister is this of thine.  Flora. 
Sir, It may be she cannot brook this happiness, wherewith you're pleased to crown me, and the more I seek to please her, the worse she is.  Prince. 
She's angry that she's so black, and thou so fair.  Flora. 
Not so my Lord, but it may be she is angry that a Prince of so great judgement should be so much deceived in his choice, as is able to verify the proverb how that love is blind.  Prince. 
That love is blind indeed that doth not see  
Causes sufficient for loving thee.  
Love is not blind because he hath no eyes,  
But cause he's guided by love's sympathies.  
Love sees, and seeing loves but yet in part;  
But he loves throughly that doth love by heart.  
But I'll tell thee my dearest dear, thy sister is mad that I am not a Suitor unto her, and I had as live be a Suitor unto the shades of night, and embrace a moon-calfe as to be l●nckt to such deformity.  Flora. 
Not so an't please your highness, shades ofttinies are sought for, when the brightest Sunbeams are eschewed; and though a black one please not you, she may be pleasing in another's eye.  Prince. 
Come, come, I know and see her conditions to be as foul as is her visage, which is the index of her mind; 'tis thy goodness to say otherwise.  Flora. 
Well Sir, I that am so happy in your affections, have the less reason to be troubled at your disaffection to any else but indeed I must entreat you to love my sister, though.  Prince. 
Well then, to morrow when she is my sister, I'll begin to love her, because she is my sister, though there be as much difference between thee and her, as between night and day.  Flora. 
Now your highness is pleased to speak of nights and days, when I think how that there is no day to come, only one night to pass, before you make me believe, I shall be your wife; my joys begin to be o'erwhelmed with fears, and sadness takes possession of my heart, and outs those wont lively apprehensions of the happiness I heretofore conceived of being yours: surely my heart hath only room for you to cast anchor there, and so possess me of some hope, but not to bring the Sovereign of a Sea of bliss, laden with the riches of your love into so poor a harbour.  Prince. 
Humility is the crown of all other virtues, and thou crownest humility, with such a becomingnesse, that she is true humility no where but in thee; and it deserves an exaltation, which it shall soon find.  Exeunt omnes. Manet Ursula. Ursula. 
O how I burn to be revenged: my malice (it is true)  
Was first to one; now, in tha● one, to two.  Exit.   

ACTUS V  

SCENA I.  
Massenello steals in the night time unto his Monument to adore it, clad in his night Gow●e.  Mass. 
THus in the night of secrecy have I stolen time from sleep, that I might sacrifice with uncontrolled devotion, unto the Idea of my mind [He adores it.] 'tis a fair piece. They were fools who thought to make Babel's Tower reach heaven by building of it high. Approaches made to heaven, do not consist in degrees of height, nor are steps, and rounds of stairs, and ladders ways to climb up thither, heaven is every where where men, Godlike behave themselves.  
Fools were all the Wisemen seven;  
This is it that reaches heaven.  
Come we'll be thought men no more; I begin to be immortal the symptoms of mortality begin to leave me, sleep: that dull and senseless blockhead, gins to know his distance; and to think himself no fit companion for us, hunger and thirst, begin to stand aloof, and not to rush so boldly into our presence as they were wont. I will shake off them too, and then mortality good night.  
Alexander was an Ass, he would be deified, but never deserved it: he went with an Army of drunken Grecians, and so stumbled upon a victory; but did he overcome a warlike Nation with a company of boys and canes? did he frighten a company of daring Spaniards into their retreat, and ruin with the ruffling of a company of blue aprons? he that will become a Deity, must not rest himself contented with the attributes of High and Mighty, but he must be wonderful: And now I think on ●, I will go and bethink myself (how I may teach the people how to fly, that things called walls, and towers, flankers, and counterscarves, pallisadoes, and stoccadoes, fit to keep hogs and dogs from entrance, than men endued with so rare a thing as is a soul, surely this invention was lest for me to bring into the world; I'll make them as good keep out the wind, the light, the common air, as keep out me; and so I'll conquer all the world, and not like fool Alexander, lie down and cry, because there be no more worlds to conquer. I'll go and be merry with the gods, drink their wine, sing catches with the angels, hunt the Devil, run races with the horses of the Sun, hobnail my shoes with a couple of old Moons, and so drink a pot at every one of the celestial signs. It is decreed, nor shall thy fort, O Rome resist my vow.  Exit furens.  

SCENA II.  Enter Mariamma and Ursula, Mar. sets down a caudle, and Ursula steals an opportunity to drop her poison into it, Mariam. calls her grandchild Flora. Mar. 
DAughter, the Prince hath sent you word that he is coming to fetch you to Church, eat this before you go, because state nuptial ceremonies are very tedious.  Flora. 
Grandmother, I humbly thank you: but I am so straight laced that I cannot get any thing down.  Mar. 
Come, come, you shall; there's a fine trick indeed, you may chance wish you had.  Ursula. 
I, and repent it too, I'll assure you.  She takes, and eats part of it. Flora. 
I do not like it: there is something in it, that hath not a good taste— O I begin to feel it work, Grandmother I'm poisoned.  Mar. 
How poyson●d? nay child I'll assure you there's nothing in't but what is good; for I am sure I put all the ingredients in't myself: you shall see me eat of it.  Ursula. 
Mother don't, you don't know what may be.  Mar. 
Don't: I'm sure there▪ s nothing in't but good.  The Grandmother eats of it. Flora. 
O my senses begin to fail me, and this poisonous drug gins to work upon my vitals.  Mar. 
Cursed caitiff, what hast thou done, poisoned thy Grandmother and thy sister.  Ursula. 
I told you that you should not eat of it, and yet you would.  Mar. 
Why then thou confessest the murder.  Ursula. 
I do, but not of you, you might have chus'd, now let us see in what fine pomp she'll go unto her wedding.  Enter Prince with attendants. Mariam. 
Here's the murtheress lay hold on her.  She is laid hold on. Prince. 
What's the matter?  [Flying upon her] Mar. 
Poisoned, and I too by that infernal hag.  She falls down. Prince. 
Furies light upon her, O my dear Flora, run, and without there is a Milan Doctor, bid him come hither quickly, quickly, quickly. O my dear Flora, she breathes, she's alive, she's warm. O help, help, help, for the Lords sake.  Enter Doctor. 
Now Doctor show your skill, and be renowned for evermore.  Doctor. 
Sir, I have an antidote that if it hath not too much wrought upon the vitals, it will recover her; however, it will fetch her to her senses again for a while.  He puts it into her mouth. 
So it will dissolve of itself, hold her up.  Prince. 
She gins to look up already.  Flora. 
Dost thou know me? O I will punish that black devil with a hundred tortures.  Flora. 
No my dear Lord, let not my sister be put unto any tortures for my sake; for I forgive her with all my heart, and thank God that he hath given me so much sense before I die, as to make it my last request to you, that you would do so too. I was once entering into the finest place that ever was seen; such fine flowers, such rare music, such glorious creatures! and the door was open for me, and all, and my thought some body pulled me back and told me that one would speak withme? was it you.  Prince; 
Dear heart it was I, would you not willingly if it lay in your power, forbear that place a while for my sake?  Flora 
Though you are the finest man in the world, yet you are not so fine as any there, but I pray don't you do any thing to my Sister, don't disgrace her.  Prince, 
She hath poisoned her Grandmother too, here she lies.  Flora; 
I am sorry for it, why would you use so much diligence to recall me, and extend no charity to her.  Doctor. 
Sir, it doth her hurt to talk so much, a little sleep will do her good, if any thing, and gentle music would be requisite if it may be had;  Prince, 
Yes, call for the music that was appointed for our nuptial feast, and let them change their note, to sad Eligies. Carry that Cerberus bitch out of my sight, and let her be cut into a thousand pieces, and cast to dogs.  aside. Ursula, 
I stand your fury, swell until thou burst,  
I am beforehand with you, do your worst.  Music plays, A song. she sleeps, he weeps, 
O Ye Gentle powers above,  
What are you yourselves but love?  
Pity lovers in distress,  
Help us, help us more or less;  
And we'll sing you, your due praise;  
If not years, yet give us days.  
If you will not grant these things,  
Do but give my spirit wings.  
And see how glad my soul within  
Will be to leap out of her skin  
In life or death I care not whither;  
So we two may be together.  
If I han't deserved such grace,  
Give me leave to buy a place,  
To be where she'll be by your doom,  
I'll give a Kingdom for a room.  
Crown and Sceptre, Throne and Ball  
Let me have her, and take all.  
She awakes, the music ceaseth.  Flora 
O Sir I must bid you farewell,  Prince, 
Stay a little my dearest Flora, I will marry thee in spite of death, that when I meet thee in another world I may claim thee as one that was sometimes mine. Priest do your office: stay a while, go fetch the murderess, that I may do it in spite of envy.  Servingman, 
Sir she is dead.  Prince, 
Bring her in dead.  Serving. 
Sir She is cut in pieces.  Prince, 
Bring in the pieces.  Servirg. 
Sir they were thrown to the dogs, and the dogs have eaten them.  Prince, 
Let me have the dogs brought in, for by all that's sacred. — Flora makes signs to speak with him.  Omnes, 
Sir she would speak with you, she feels herself departing.  Prince, 
What would my dearest have with me.  Flora, 
O Sir, I feel myself now going to the place from whence you called me bacl, do so no more for charity sake, I gladly would have lived yours I must confess, but I am happier in this, that it thus lies in my power to express a fit tribute of my love to you, rather thus to die your Martyr, then to live your wife, like Icarus I flyed,  
And soared too high, fell down and died.  Exit Vita. Enter Massenello furiens. Mass. 
Where are these fools that will, and won't be married: why don't ye come away, they all stay for you?  Prince, 
O Sir, your devil daughter hath forbid the Banes.  Mass. 
What's here to do, my mother and my daughter dead? who durst do this? that death himself (had I forbidden him) durst not do it.  Prince 
Your own daughter, poisoned your own mother, and her own Sister.  Mass. 
Where is she, she shall have justice.  Prince, 
That is done already.  Mass. 
How, justice done already, are you turned justiciary? I thought there had been no more Justices but myself.  Prince, 
I thought according to the Articles of our agreement, you were to become a private man, and to have nothing to do with justice business.  Mass. 
I tell thee thou Prince of Darkness, I am immortal.  Prince, 
I will not dispute with you in that argument, only give me leave to take away this relic, that I may pay the tribute of mine eyes thereto, and perform the last kind office of a lover, in seeing her honourably interred.  Mass. 
Why didst thou love her truly? wouldst thou have been married to her?  Prince, 
Would you be wedded to your wil—  Mass. 
Nay, if thou lovest her but half so well, take her and much good do thee with her.  Exeunt omnes with the Corpse. Manet Mass. Mass. 
My mother dead, my wife dead, my daughter dead, all dead? why now I stand by myself like the popular star, fixed in his seat, and all the heavens of great and little ones do move about me. Me thinks that presumptuous boy began to talk of articles, do they think that I'll be confined to articles, the sun may be confined within its tropickes, the Sea may be confined within its bounds, the earth may be confined in a circle: but Tomaso, cannot, will not be confined: I'll therefore go, and presently confound, that presumptuous monument that dares confine Tomaso within any terms, had it root fixed in the very centre, I would pluck it up: or did the arctic and antarctic poles, strike through it as stays to hold it up, I'd cast it down, I'll have my words law, my will reason, my pleasures observed, and my commands obeyed, I do not like this hoc nihil indeclinabile, i'd have ut sunt Divorum, Mars, Bacchus, Apollo, Virorum, O I love to be like one of these thundering gods, I'll tell you what, I'll begin a new world, and if men won't follow me it is no matter, it is but to teach foxes how to speak, they have cunning and subtlety enough, Lions have strength, and valour, horse's courage, dog's diligence, and faithfulness. It is but teaching these the use of reason, and we will bid defiance to all mankind: and what is this to one that is immortal: but first I must down with this confining monument. I go about it.  Exit.  

SCENA III.  Enter V: Roy: Pr: Card: Cap.: of the Castle, Mat: Lo: Cha●: Lo: Con: etc. V: Roy: 
WE are all resolved to honour that fair body parted from as fair a soul, with as great solemnity as if she were my own daughter, or my own son's wife.  Pr: 
O Sir, the honour of those rich jewels which were engaged within this breast that's now turned to earth; cannot be let down, or an inventory taken of half the good● she had there laid up in store, were all men in the worl● registers, the world paper, and the Ocean ink, The pens would scrawle the paper, and the paper drink That Inky Ocean up: the work unfinished lie: And a thousand pities call for new supply.  Card. 
We all contribute sorrow to your sufferings, and pray we may not suffer too much with you.  Great knocking without. V Roy: 
Go know the reason of this noise, Exit. Lo. Con. I pray that all be well, the fellow was mad enough before, and it may be this will make him ten times worse.  Card: 
I 'tis no matter, and if he be; if ●he people be not all mad.  Enter Lo. Con. with Bakers, Brewers, Butchers, etc. Lo. Con. 
I have brought you a great many of discontented people, who seem to be as much displeased with the times as we; I think we shall be very good company together.  V Roy. 
Friends speak your minds freely, we give you leave.  Bakers. 
Then Sir know; this Tomaso is mad: stark mad: he runs up and down the streets, striking every man, that comes in his way; has thrown down the Articles, will stand to nothing, breeds confusion, and turns all topsie turvy.  V Roy. 
This is the Idol which ye first set up, and then adored, now ye know the difference, betwixt a golden Sceptre, and an iron rod.  Butch. 
I but a pox confound him, he made us believe such strange stories, and we see n●thing performed, wherefore we are come unto you in the behalf of the rest of our fellow Citizens to make our grievance known, and to crave your assistance for our redress.  V Roy. 
Alas how can I help you!  Butch. 
Nay Sir, we'll help you: and ourselves too, and you'll but give us leave.  Card. 
My Masters, it was your own fault that brought you to this, and it must be your own virtue to bring y●u out of it again; he is of your own making, and now you would feign be rid of him if you knew how.  Butch. 
Yes we know how to be rid of him, and you'll give us leave.  V Roy. 
How.  Bakers. 
we'll serve him as he served us.  Butch. 
No, as he served us.  Omnes. 
Ha', Ha', Herald  V Roy. 
About it then if you have the hearts.  Butch. 
I tell you Sir he is as dead already to my thinking as a door nail.  Exeunt Bakers, etc. Card. 
In the interim by all means let the Secretary be sent for, as about some earnest business, lest he prevent the plot, and when ' ti done, that we may be sure of him.  V Roy. 
My Lord, I pray will you take the pains.  Ex. Lo Con. Card. 
This is that which I was speaking unto you of, we must lay hold upon the present disgust of the people, and make it serve our turns, these joined together with the Morcato men, will make a good lusty party.  Eut Lo. Con. with Gen. Lo. Con. 
Here is the Secretary, I met him coming to your Highness.  V Roy. 
What is your pleasure Mr. Secretary?  Gen. 
Sir I am sent unto you in the behalf of the people, who hear how that there is a great resort of Citizens unto the Castle, and those m●n of no good report.  V Roy. 
And what then? what of that? what would you have?  Gen. 
They would know their business, and would not have you thus to countenance them; and further, they would have you leave the Castle, and remain with them for their security.  Card. 
What people is that which you are come from? they were people that were here, and of more loyalty and understanding then the people that have sent you hither. Your Master's mad already, and you are little better.  Gen. 
Well Card. ere it be long you shall think yourself the maddest of the three.  Card. 
This villain must not go alive out of the Castle, if he do, he'll spoil the plot and us.  Card. whispers. Gen. 
Sir, I desire your speedy answer.  V Roy. 
Our answer is your dismission; you may be gone.  Gen. 
Is that all?  Card. 
Thou saucy piece of insolence, darest thou contest with Majesty, be gone.  Gen. 
I go— but— remember this  Card: 
Let the fool go, he'll be met with, I warrant you.  Exeunt omnos. Enter Capt: with a Guard. Capt: 
Do ye knew the man?  Guard: 
Yes, here he comes.  Cap.: 
That's he.  Enter Gennino. Gen. 
Open the gate there, let down the bridge.  Guard. 
What are you? I will not open the gate, I have no order for it.  Gen. 
Well you shall rue it ere it be long.  Guard. 
Do you threaten the King's guard? take that:  kills him. Gen. 
O I am killed.  Guard. 
It makes no matter, you should have a better tongue in your head then.  Gen. 
'Twas not my tongue that made me thus departed,  
But 'twas this vile, and base, and treacherous heart.  Ex. vita. Exeunt omnes.  

SCENA iv  Enter Mass. into the Mercato looking wildly; all the people about him, after a long pause, he speaks. Mass. 
WOnders! wonders! without all bounds and measures. Death and Cupid quartered together last night in the same room: Venus called up her boy betimes, time called death, present employment was for both: the more haste, the worse speed: death groping for his quiver in the morning, laid his hand upon Cupids, and h●s eyes being out of his head, takes the boys quiver for his own: Cupid as blind as he, took the deadly quiver in his hand, and dressing himself in the morning, in ordering his wings, disorders some of his feathers in bruising them against death's head, Venus having intelligence that her son had got such a chamber-fellow, to prevent mistake brings in the light of nature; Cupid whose feathers were not right, reaches and stretches out his wings, flutters, and claps them too and again, and blows out the candle: go then as you are, said Venus to Cu●id, Time said the like to Death; both never rested from journeying till they came to my very door, being come there, they both strove for priority; Death said, he scorned to give place to Cupid, because he was but a boy; and the boy answered him as prettily again, that he scorned to be beholding to him, and so flew in at the window: By this unfortunate mistake, death who intended to strike me, slew my daughter; and Cupid that would have played his part with Flora, over-acts his part with me: Here I have it, here I burn. I cannot say I swim in love, but I am over head and ears: But where shall I entertain my Mistress? I will have all this great City contriv▪ d into one house, and the inhabitants shall leave being Citizens, and become officers; it's no matter for their liberties, so they be my servants, for that shall be their greatest freedom. I'll have my house well furnished with Taxes and Rates, and hung about with Sequestrations: For I must tell you, Sirs, I am become immortal, and will make ye all Kings; but ye must be ruled by me, for ye shall see me fly in the air, walk upon the water, run through the fire, hang up the terrestrial globe, upon one of the Celestial poles, and it shall so hang by the secret invention, that all Summer long it shall swing towards the North, in Winter towards the Southern clime: so that both Summer's heat, and Winter's cold shall be no more, but a sweet temper all the year: nothing but Spring and Autome, pleasure and profit, shall ye have. This is the golden age the Poets prophesied of. I tell you what, they never sprinkled holy water over Vesuvias head; for if they had, it would have quenched its flames. To morrow I am to be married to Don Olympia. I bid you to my wedding. The triple crown's mine own already; and methinks I hear the keys jingling in my pocket.—  
1. Peo. He talks extravagantly.  
2. Peo. he's wild methinks.  
3. Peo. Stark mad.  Bakers. 
Come down.  Butchers. 
Come down I say.  Mass. 
Come down, why so I will come down; Time is to lose his foretop, and Cupid is to be whipped; what would you have?  Butch. 
Your head:  Mass. 
Take it.  He thrusts out his head, and they cut off a false head made of a bladder filled with blood. Exeunt with his body.  

SCENA V  
A Solemn funeral of Mass. in warlike manner passes over the Stage, Mass. open faced after the manner of the Italians lies carri▪ d upon a Beer, he makes crosses, blessing the people with a counterf●it right hand, that is directed by a Friar who stands under the Beer; the people cry out wonderful, wonderful, he blesses us, he was a Saint, and died our Martyr; this was but a trick of the royal party, who shall know that there are a hundred Massenelloes more in Naples.  Enter the funeral of Flora meeting them; the Prince chiefe mourner, the prophetic Hermit on his right hand, with all his friends, and attendants. Maior speaks. Maior. 
HEre they are, here they be, let's fall upon them, while we may, we have lost too many such opportunities; make ready my Masters.  Pr. advances. 
Gentlemen, what do you mean?  Maior. 
We mean to let you know, what 'tis to murder  Mas. 
whose self alone was worth you all; 'twas but their hands that acted what your heads contrived, for which you shall soon suffer.  Pr. 
Let but these your executioners go with me to the grave, that I may but lay, my dearest Saint to rest in peace, and then do what you please; and for mine own part, if I ask you life, let me not live; for as her death did give my sorrows life, so my death will ease my pain, and end my sorrow.  Omnes. 
He blesses us again: O holy Saint!  Maior. 
This was a Saint, not called a Saint, but as you see confirmed by wonder, and the hand of miracle.  Hermit. 
By the hand of an impostor. If you will be undeceived, you may look under the Beer, and you shall find a Juggler playing the Hocus Pocus with you.  He holds up the cloth and shows the people a Friar underneath with his juggling instruments, and Massenelloes false arm discovered. Her. 
If neither the laws of God, nor the laws of nature, or the Land, nor the rule of reason, yet let experience bear some sway, let palpable demonstrations work upon you, what do you do with eyes and ears, if you will not believe their intelligence? do you not see yourselves cozened? Do you not see yourselves puppet played into a new war? O return therefore to your old obedience, & your hearts cannot desire more than your Prince will give you, what is past shall be forgotten, and forgiven, 'tis the false Clergy (my dear Citizens) who have contributed the fuel, laid it together, set live coals under it, and then have been the bellows to all those combustions, as if all mischiefs had been but so many exaltations of their brains, set on fire by the continual motions and agitations of their tongues, witness this incendiary, O return, return! unto your Prince, whose arms were always open to receive you into his bosom, whensoever you should make it, though but your last refuge.  The people cry a King, a King, a King, fall upon the Friar, and beat him to death, throw down the body of Massenello, saying, his lousy dust shall not be carried into the sepulchres of Kings. V Roy 
Well then good people, since 'tis so with you, you and the children that are yet unborn shall have justcause to say this was a happy day, and ye shall soon find the difference between a suppositious and a natural parent: All things shall be so forgot as if they had not been, And perchance  
We'll laugh our follies out of countenance.  Omnes, 
Vita il Re di Spain, vita, vita, vita.  Exeunt Omnes shouldering and affronting the Mayor. Enter a Herald at arms with Trumpeters on each side of him. 
Trumpets sound, Heralds proclaim.  
To all persons of what degrees and qualities soever, is proclaimed a general pardon by the most—  [Massenello revives, and starts up, speaks.] Mass. 
Ha', whose that, that talks of a general pardon? the word revives me, and hath brought me my soul again, and hath fastened once more unto this clog.  
Your pardon, and I'll speak the Epilogue.    

Epilogue.  

LEt Kings beware how they provoke  
Their Subjects with too hard a Yoke,  
For when all's done, it will not do,  
You see they break the Yoke in two:  
Let Subjects no rebellion move  
On such pretences lest it prove,  
As sad a thing, (which God forbidden)  
And fatal as to us it did.  
Much blood spilt, great battles won,  
Our treasure spent, and nothing done.  
Lest fools the wise ones do deride,  
Gentles foot it, beggars ride,  
Lazy Lubbers get the riches,  
Women preach and wear the breeches,  
Lest vengeance fall as did on me  
Undone; and my posterity,  
Helped and succoured from all parts  
Supported by the people's hearts.  
Riches, honours made me glad:  
Pride and glory made me mad,  
Madness made me do such things  
The people wished they had their Kings  
The King assures them acts of grace,  
Here they leave me in the place.  
And like Actaeon (it may be said)  
By my own dogs I'm worried.  
Fond men be ruled, play not with Kings,  
With Lion's claws, nor Serpent's stings.  
For Rebellion, and treason;  
Rots your name, and outs your reason,  
Can all the traitors that are dead,  
But rise— they'd say— as I have said.    
FINIS.