THE Royal Exchange. A COMEDY, Acted with general Applause at the BLACKFRIARS, BY HIS Majesty's SERVANTS.  
Written by Mr. Richard Brome.  Regia res amor est— 
LONDON, Printed for Henry Brome at the Gun in Ivy-lane, 1661.   

The Stationer to the Readers.  
Gentlemen and Ladies,  
THis short account I thought fit to give you of this Poem, that it came to my hands among other things of this nature, written, and left by Mr. Rich. Brome, a person whose excellency in Comical wit has been sufficiently proved, and needs not my partial and weak commendation. There are published already of his Plays, the Northern Lass, the Antipodes, the Asparagus-garden, the Merry Beggars, the Lancashire Witches, besides the 5. Plays lately published in a Volume. The good acceptance of all which encourages me to publish this, being no way inferior to the rest; but when 'twas written, or where acted, I know not. Your kind entertainment of this will enable me to make known to the World divers more of the same Author's works of this kind, which have not yet seen light; for my aim is, & prodesse & delectare, by delighting thee to profit myself.  
H. B. Farewell.   

The Queen's Exchange.  
The Persons in the Play.  

Osrick, King of Northumbria.  
Theodrick his Favourite and Ambassador.  
Ethelswick, his Substitute.  


Theodwald,  
Eaufride,  
Alfride,  
Edelbert,   Lords of his Council.  
A Physician.  
Jeffrey, the King's fool.  
4. Clowns.   

BErtha, Queen of West Saxons.  


Segebert,  
Alberto,   two banished Lords.  


Anthynus,  
Offa,   Segebert's Sons.  
Mildred, Segebert's daughter, Osrick's Queen.  
Arnold, an old servant of Offa.  


Kelrick,  
Elkwine,  
Elfride,   three sycophant Lords.  
Hermit and his Servant.  
Keeper of Prison.  
Edith, Mildred's Nurse.  


A Carpenter,  
A Mason,  
A Smith,   three Thief's.   Scene England.  

Prologue to the Queen's Exchange.  
THe writer of this Play who ever uses  
To usher with his modesty the Muses  
Unto the Stage, He that scarce ever durst  
Of Poet's rank himself above the worst,  
Though most that he has writ has passed the rest,  
And found good approbation of the best;  
He as he never knew to bow, he says,  
As little fears the fortune of his Plays:  
He yields their right to us, and we submit  
All that they are in learning or in wit  
To your fair censure. All is then but th●…,  
As you approve they are good or bad to us;  
And all by way of favour we can crave,  
Is that you not destroy where you may save.   

The QUEEN'S Exchange.  

ACT. I.  

SCEN. I.  Enter Celerick, Elkwin, Segebert, Bertha, and Attendants. Oboes. Bart. 
SInce it has pleased the highest Power to place me  
His substitute in Regal Sovereignty,  
Over this Kingdom, by the general vote  
Of you my loyal Lords, and loving Subjects,  
Though grounded on my right of due Succession;  
Being immediate heir, and only child  
Of your late much deplored King my Father.  
I am in a most reverend duty bound  
Unto that Power above me, and a well-  
Befitting care towards you my faithful people,  
To rule and govern so (at least so near  
As by all possibility I may)  
That I may shun Heaven's anger, and your grief.  
Which that I may, at our last consultation  
The better to pass through my weighty charge,  
I gave you to consider of the Proposition  
Is made to me by the Northumbrian King  
Of marriage, not only to enable me  
In my government, but thereby to strengthen  
This Kingdom in succeeding times, by a line  
Of lawful Successors. I gave you all  
My strong & most unanswerable reasons:  
To which you seemed contented, all but one,  
Who with the rest by this I hope is satistisfied.  
'Tis you, Lord Segebert, you it is I mean:  
Does it appear to you yet reasonable,  
That I be matched to the Northumbrian King?  
I have with patience waited a whole month  
For you to rectify your scrupulous judgement,  
Whereby it might comply with these, no way  
Inferior to yourself, but are your Peers,  
As well in their known wisdom, as my favour.  Seg. 
Thus low unto your sacred Majesty  
I here devote myself; and thus I meet  
With equal love, th' embraces of these Lords.  
I'll join & grow one body, and one voice  
With them, in all may add unto your Honour,  
And your dear Kingdoms good. But pardon me  
My sovereign Queen, and I beseech you my Lords,  
To weigh with your known wisdom the great danger  
This match may bring unto the Crown and Country.  
'tis true, the King Osrick as well in person  
As in his dignity, may be thought fit  
To be endowed with all you seem to yield him.  
But what becomes of all the wholesome Laws,  
Customs, and all the nerves of Government  
Your no less prudent than Majestic Father  
With power & policy enriched this Land with;  
And made the Saxons happy, and yourself  
A Queen of so great eminence. Must all,  
With so much Majesty and matchless beauty,  
Be now subjected to a stranger's foot;  
And trod into disorder? All your wealth.  
Your state, your laws, your subjects, and the hope  
Of flourishing future fortunes, which your Father  
By his continual care, and tedious study  
Gave as a Legacy unto this Kingdom.  
Must all be altered, or quite subverted,  
And all by a wilful gift unto a stranger:  Bart. 
Peace: stop his mouth. Unreverent old man,  
How dar'st thou thus oppose thy Sovereign's will,  
So well approud by all thy fellow Peers;  
Of which the meanest equal thee in judgement?  Seg. 
Do you approve their judgements, Madam, which  
Are grounded on your will? I may not do't.  
Only I pray, that you may understand,  
(But not unto your loss) the difference  
Betwixt smooth flattery, and honest judgements.  Bert. 
Do you hear this, my Lords?  Celr 
My Lord Segebert.  
Though you except against this King,  
He may hereafter thank you in your kind.  Seg. 
Mean time I thank you for your prophecy.  Cel. 
You cannot but allow succession is  
The life of Kingdoms; & if so, you cannot  
But wish the Queen (which Heaven grant speedily)  
An happy husband.  Bert. 
I thank you, good my Lord.  Elk. 
And if an husband, why not him she affects?  
Can it befit a Subject to control  
The affection of his Princess? Heaven forbidden.  Seg. 
This is ●ar taking Music.  Elk. 
Or suppose,  
You might control it; whom in your great wisdom  
Would you allot the Queen?  Seg 
I see your aim;  
And know, when I have said all that I dare,  
What censure I must undergo. And thus  
I'll meet it boldly you are sycophants all,  
And do provide but for yourselves, though all.  
The Kingdom perish for't. May the justice.  
That follows flattery overtake you for't.  Seg. 
Take hence the mad man.  Colr. 
We are sorry for you.  Elk. 
And wish the troublesome spirit were out of you,  
That so distracts your reason.  Elf. 
We have known you  
Speak and answer to the purpose.  Seg. 
Your question to no purpose, Sir, was this:  
Whom my great wisdom would allot the Queen?  
You are not worth my answer. But my Sovereign,  
I do implore your gracious attention  
To these few words.  Celr. 
Less sense.  Elf. 
No matter.  Elk. 
Silence.  
Speak your few words, the Queen can give you hearing.  Seg. 
I wish your Highness would command your women,  
That know their qualities to take up your Beagles.  
Their Petulances sort not with this place  
Nor the more serious matter of my speech.  Bert. 
Speak, I can hear you though.  
Forbear him Lords.  Seg. 
The King your Father, and my ne'er to be  
Forgotten Master, (please you to remember)  
Although his memory be lost with these,  
Who ne'er had grace to know him rightly, gave me  
Before his death strictly this charge; and in  
Your presence too, charging yourself withal  
To give it due obedience: That you should  
Before all men's advice take mine for marriage,  
And that especially I should take care  
'Gainst Innovation. That the laws he left  
Established with such care for good o'th' Kingdom  
Might be maintained by whomsoe'er you matched with.  
I know, and you, if you knew any thing,  
Might know the difference twixt the Northumbrian laws  
And ours: And sooner will their King pervert  
Your Privileges and your Government,  
Then reduce his to yours: pure common sense,  
Even you me thinks, my Lords, may foretell that  Bert. 
You have said enough.  Seg. 
I do beseech your Highness  
But for this little more.  Bert. 
I'll hear no more.  Celr. 
Pray hear his little more although you send him  
Out of your hearing then for evermore.  Seg. 
Your Father added this to his command,  
That rather than by marriage you should bring  
Your Subjects to such thraldom, and that if  
No Prince whose laws cohered with yours did seek you  
(As some there are, and nearer than th' Northumbrian)  
That he would have you from some noble Stock  
To take a Subject in your own Dominion.  Bert. 
Traitor!  Seg. 
To urge your Father's Testament?  Celr. 
But did the King your ne'er forgotten Master  
Bequeath her an affection to such blood?  Bert. 
Forbear. Now he's not worth your speaking to.  Celr. 
Now she'll ha'me I hope. What a foul beast  
Was I to undervalue subjects blood?  Bert. 
I have forborn you long, for the old love  
My Father in his life conferred upon you  
And still I yield to it so much as saves  
Your head, bold talking fellow. But Sir hear  
Your doom. Since the King's love hath puffed your dotage  
With swollen conceit (for what can it be less)  
That you are now my King (for sure you think so)  
I'll try my Title with you. Hence you Exile:  
Go in perpetual banishment from this Kingdom.  
Speak not a word for him.  All. 
Insooth we meant it not.  Celr. 
But may it please your Majesty, you mentioned  
His head erewhile. Now if I might advise—  Bert. 
Away, you'll be too cruel.  Celr. 
Another hope lost.  Elkw. 
His lands and goods, Madam, would be thought on.  Bert. 
No, he has children.  Elfr. 
I'll take his daughter with all faults, and half his lands.  Bert. 
Why are ye not gone?  Seg. 
I have not much to say.  Bert. 
Out with it then, and then out with yourself.  Seg. 
In the large History of your Father's life  
You find but one example for this doom  
Of Banishment. And that was of Albert five years since,  
For wronging me unto his Highness, when  
He stood in competition with me for  
The Honour in the State the King then gave me.  Bert. 
And what of this?  Seg. 
But thus. I stood by then, and then all knowing Heaven  
Saw that though he for wronging me was Banished,  
I was right sorry, and much pleaded for him.  Bert. 
It follows now that you would have these Lords,  
Whom you have so abused, to plead for you.  Seg. 
Quite contrary, for they are my Abusers;  
Yet I do grieve for them, but more for you.  
To think on all your sorrows, when too late  
You'll wish for me to steer the State.  Bert. 
Pray if you meet that good old Lord Alberto,  
Now in your exile, send him home to us;  
I'll promise him your Honour in the State.  All. 
Ha', ha', ha'.  Bert. 
Go from my sight, and if after three days  
Thou art seen in my Dominion, I will give  
A thousand crowns to him that brings thy head.  
See Proclamation sent to that effect.  Celr. 
I will, and as many Informers after  
The Proclamation, as there be crowns in't.  
Come we have spoken for you all that we can.  Elfr. 
The Queen's implacable.  Bert. 
Be gone I say, Why dost thou stay?  Seg. 
But to applaud your Mercy and Bounty,  
In that you post me from a world of care  
And give me the wide world for my share.  Exit Seg. & Celr. Elk. 
Your Majesty has performed a point of justice  
Mingled with clemency beyond all precedent.  Bert. 
Enough to give a warning to all such  
As dare oppose their Prince's purposes;  
Conduct in now th' Ambassador of Northumbria.  
Whilst I review his Masters brighter Figure  Exit Elkw. Elf. 
As ardently, (but with more pure affection)  
As ere did Cynthia her Endymion.  Ent. Emb. 
My Lord, you have attended long, but now  
I shall return that answer to your King,  
That if his love be as you have pretended  
May well excuse your stay. Tell him this story,  
A King sent forth a General to besiege  
A never conquered City. The siege was long,  
And no report came back unto the King,  
How well or ill his Expedition thrived;  
Until his doubtful thoughts had given lost,  
His hope o'th' City, and his Army both.  
When he being full of this despair, arrived  
o'th' sudden his brave General with Victory;  
Which made his thanks, as was his conquest double.  
You may interpret me my Lord.  Emb. 
If so,  
I am to tell the King he has won your love.  Bert. 
A blush may be excused in the confession:  
'Tis my first answer to the question: Yes.  Emb 
So from the doubtful darkness of the night,  
The blushing morn Ushers the cheerful Sun,  
To give new light and life unto the World:  
I shall revive my King with these glad tidings.  Bert. 
You have said well,  
Let us inform you better, (Talk aside with him)  Elkw. 
I can but think what old Segebert said  
Concerning Laws, Customs and Privileges.  
And how this match will change the Government.  
I fear, how e'er the Laws may go, our Customs will  
Be lost; for he me thinks outflatters us already.  Elfr. 
He's the King's Favourite; and has wooed so well  
For him, that we may fear he'll wriggle in  
Twixt him and us, the prime man in her favour.  Bert. 
Let it be so. The tenth of the next month  
I'll be prepared to entertain his Highness.  
First to confirm a contract; then as soon  
As he shall please to consummate our marriage.  
In the mean time this Figure, which you say  
Resembles him, as Painter's skill affords:  
Indeed it is a sweet one. (Kisses it)  
Shall be daily  
My dear companion most unseparably;  
And when I sleep it shall partake my Pillow.  
Does he love mine as well d'ye think my Lord?  Emb. 
Just with the same devotion; If I durst  
I would say more.  Bgrt 
Nay, speak my Lord, pray speak.  Emb. 
He does allowed a Table, Waiters and Officers  
That eat the meat.  Bert. 
Indeed.  Elkw. 
O horrible.  Elfr. 
Nay, We shall ne'er come near him.  Emb. 
And at night  
He lodges it perpetually on his bosom.  Elkw. 
We are dunces to him.  Emb 
Here, just here;  
an't please your Majesty o'the hearts side. shrugs  Bert. 
Indeed I am pleased. I'll stay you but to night,  
To morrow you shall hasten towards the King.  
And for your speed wear this.  Emb. 
Most gracious Queen kisses her hand.  Exeunt Omnes.  

SCEN. II.  Enter Segebert, Apthynus, Offa, Mildred. Seg. 
'Tis the Queen's pleasure children;  
I must bear it.  Off. 
To Banishment, good heaven forbidden. And Heaven  
I hope will not yet suffer it.  Seg. 
Whilst we expect the best from Heavens high will,  
It suffers Princes to reward us ill.  
Yet can I think it shakes an angry hand  
Over my head, for some misdeed of mine,  
Which I have unrepented let go by.  
It must be something sure was pleasure to me.  
What in the World has most delighted me?  
To love my King and Country, Neighbours, Friends,  
And sometimes Enemies. (I'll pass o'er that)  
I have done well (though I do not to boast it)  
To secure and relieve all kind of wretches;  
Poor souls that have half deafened me with Prayers,  
Loud Prayers. They'll miss me now; and I  
Shall have a miss of them too. (Let that pass)  
What have I done at home, since my Wife died?  
No Turtle ever kept a widowhood,  
More strict than I have done. Then for my Children,  Offa. 
Come you hither.  Off. 
My Lord Father.  Anth. 
He might have called me first, I am the Eldest.  Seg 
I am sure thou'lt answer in behal of one.  
Have I not loved thee always?  Off. 
O dear Sir,  
I am all unworthy to acknowledge half,  
Half of your pious bounties on a Son,  
A wretch so ill deserving as myself;  
Your hand has evermore been open to me,  
Your blessings still more readily have showered  
Upon my head, than I had grace to ask them.  
(For to my knowledge I ne'er asked blessing yet  
With a good will in all my life; some would  
Do Penance in the Church with less perplexity.)  Seg. 
I, thou wast ever an obedient child,  
Next, you my Daughter.  Anth. 
Then I must be last.  Seg. 
How have you found my love?  Mildred 
Sir, far above my duty.  Seg. 
Do not weep, but speak good child.  
I have not long to stay with ye; my three days  
Will scarce afford this hour to bide with you. (Weeps)  Mild. 
Had I no tears nor sobs to interrupt  
My flattering Tongue, but had speech as free  
As the best Orator that speaks for fee  
Can, or durst I attempt t' express your goodness,  
More than to say, 'tis more than I can say.  Seg. 
'Tis a good maid; O Queen thou art too cruel!  Mild. 
But honoured Father, grant me yet one Bone.  Seg. 
What's that my Girl?  Mild. 
You shall know presently Dries her eyes.  
Pray give me leave to kneel unto the Queen  
To try what I can do for your repeal.  
'Twere shame we should sit down and lose you thus.  
The Queen affects me well. You know she loves me.  
And promised once she would deny me nothing.  Seg. 
For this thou shalt not trouble her: besides  
You put me well in mind to charge you Daughter,  
Upon my Blessing, go no more to Court.  
Eat it I charge thee as thou wouldst my curse.  
If you have lovers there whom they call Servants,  
Do as neat Surgeons do when they have touched  
Loathsome or pestilent Sores; wash clean your hands  
Of all of'em, that are far more infections,  
And hear me daughter Mildred, I am told  
The N●…humbrian Ambassador now at Court,  
The great Kings greater Favourite made hot love to you.  
And that he obtained your Picture which he wears,  
More proud of't than his undeserved Honours.  
Let me now charge you further, and observe it,  
Shake off all thoughts of him. Upon the match now  
He and whole Shoals of upstart Braveries,  
Must hither needs attend their King. But if  
Thou marry with him, or any amongst them,  
Though the greatest subject that his Master has,  
Thou art divored for ever of my blessing.  Mild. 
I will in all obey you.  Off. 
I shall look to that Sir.  Seg. 
Enough. Anthynus.  Anth. 
At last, yet I am thought on.  Seg. 
Now there rests  
Of all my children but you to resolve me,  
How you have found my love?  Anth. 
You ask me last  
Sir I presume, cause you have had me longest,  
To crown their testimony.  Seg. 
Yet you seem  
Anthinus, by your leave, the least to know me,  
But like a stranger look upon me when  
These give me due respect.  Anth. 
Less than due  
I dare not give you; and more were to abuse you.  
Though I do not applaud, I must approve  
You are a right good father.  Off. 
Umh.  Seg. 
Yet you speak in this but coldly.  Off. 
No, no, it sounds not well. But you are wise.  Anth. 
I have observed, but specially at Court,  
Where flattery is too frequent, the great scorn  
You have ever cast upon it, and do fear  
To come within such danger of reproof.  
Knowing your reason may as well detest it  
In your own house, as in King's Palaces.  
And when I hear another (my dear Sister,  
Heaven know I mean not you)  
Speak like a flatterer, I hold my peace,  
And so come short of doing what I would,  
For fear of overdoing. But honoured Sir,  
When a Son can be found that dares do more  
For's Father's life or honour then myself,  
I'll forfeit mine inheritance and your blessing;  
So much your love engages me.  Off. 
If this were hearty now, not hollow.  Seg. 
No more,  
Time calls away apace, and I am satisfied  
Since I must undergo the Queen's hard censure,  
That it falls not upon me like a curse,  
For wronging Crown or Country, Neighbours, Friends,  
Or you my dearer children. I will take it  
Not as a punishment but blessing rather.  
To be removed from miseries  
Are like to fall on this unhappy Kingdom.  
And I will think the Queen has done me favour  
To case me of my cares a thousand ways,  
To make my rest of life all holidays.  
Now take my last directions. Son Anthynus.  Anth. 
Son! It is holiday with me to. 'Tis  
The first time he called me Son these three years.  Seg. 
Though you are eldest, and my lawful heir,  
And must be Lord at my decease of all  
My large Possessions. Yet it is my will  
That till my death my Offa have the sway  
And government of all, allowing you  
That yearly stipen formerly I gave you.  
Let me not hear of any grudge betwixt you.  
And be you both respectful of your Sister,  
And you of them good Girl. It is decreed  
That I shall never see you more.  Mild. 
Ay me. (Cries)  Seg. 
Go get thee in I prithee Mildred,  
Go in I say, thy brothers shall a little  
Show me my way. Go in, I shall not speak else,  
And I have more to say to them. Good now go.  Mild. 
O, O, O.  Seg. 
You will not disobey me? Heaven bless my Girl (go and come again)  Mild. 
But must I never see you more?  Seg. 
Yes child in Heaven; and then for evermore.  Mild. 
To wait your coming thither I'll afore. Exit.  Seg. 
Thither shall be my first journey.  
But after you shall still hear from me where e'er I wander.  Anth. 
Not I Sir, by your favour.  Seg. 
Why I pray?  Anth. 
I must be nearer you. I kneel for't Sir,  
And humbly pray I may not be denied  
To wait on you in Exile. Take me with you.  Off. 
Do you not find him?  Seg. 
This is but your stoutness  
(Though you seem humble unto me) against  
Your brother, because I leave the rule to him.  Anth. 
Far be it from my thoughts dear Sir, consider  
He has had that rule already divers years  
Ere since my mother die, and been your darling  
Heaven knows without my grudge, while you were pleased.  Off. 
Heaven knows his thoughts the while alack a day.  Anth. 
I never envied him, though I have found  
You have severely over looked my Actions,  
When you have smiled on his, though but the same.  
I have been still content while I have found my duty firm.  Seg. 
You shall along.  Anth. 
You have new begotten me.  Off. 
Sir.  Seg. 
Peace, I know thy fear my dearest Boy.  Off. 
Does not your blood begin to chill within you?  
Great heirs are overhasty Sir,  
And think their Fathers live too long Pray Sir  
Take heed of him. Though he should act the  
Parricide abroad, our laws acquit him.  Seg. 
I'll give myself to Heaven, quit thou thy fear.  
I am not worth a life. I'll take him hence  
That thou mayst be secure from bloody spite.  
I fear him not, mischief has spent herself  
And left her sting within me for a charm  
That quit me from the fear of further harm.  
Go get thee home, my blessing and farewell.  Off. 
Pray Sir excuse me, I cannot speak for laughing. (aside)  Seg. 
And farewell Country, shed not a tear for me;  
I go to be dissolved in tears for thee.    

ACT. II.  

SCEN. I.  Enter Osrick the King, Theodrick, Theodwald, Eaufrid, Alfrid, Elelbert, 2. Lords. OSr. 
Let your dispatches instantly be sent  
Through all the Kingdom to incite the people  
(As many as are mine, or would be thought so)  
To express with me their joy, for the enjoying  
Of the so long desired happiness,  
In this our beauteous and magnificent Queen.  1. Lor. 
See that through all the Cities, Towns and Villages,  
With solemn Feasts, and public sign of joy  
They celebrate a day for these glad Tidings.  2. Lor. 
Post every way, that the third day from this  
The general joy may sound and shine through all  
The Kingdom.  Attend. 
That's with Bells and Bonfires.  1. & 2. Lor. 
Go. Ex. Attendants.  Kin. 
And now my Lords, I must require your care  
To set down a fit order for our journey  
Unto this Queen, to perfect my world's bliss.  
I would not fail in the least Article  
Of state or decency in this Affair.  
Provide so that we may in all appear  
Worthy th'achievement of our fair ambition.  
And let our followers be chosen such  
Whose inward worth no less than outward show  
May make us glorious in this expedition.  
Do speedily and effectually good my Lords,  
The time hasts on.  1. & 2. Lor. 
Our duty shall prevent it.  King. 
Methinks the silent Picture seems to say,  
'Tis fit I should anticipate a day, Ex. Lords.  
Rather than lose one minute from that light  
Whose very shadow is so Angel bright.  Emb. 
But when your Highness shall behold, nay more  
Shall touch, nay more and nearer shall embrace,  
Nay more and nearer yet, enfold and handle,  
Nay more and nearest of all, enjoy  
The lively (that's too little) heavenly substance  
Of this poor imaginary, which is as short,  
As far inferior to the life,  
As a weak starlight to the mid day Sun.  King. 
O do not ravish me with expectation.  
This is a way to make each hour until  
I shall enjoy my bliss, a tedious night;  
Each night a death: Yet can I not desire  
To shift the Argument off our discourse.  
Did she appear so fair, so lovely?  Emb. 
Sir,  
Suppose you see a glorious Firmament,  
Bedecked with heavenly Stars; so shines her Court  
With Ladies might be thought of matchless beauty,  
Striking mere humane sight with admiration.  
Imagine now you see break through a Veil  
Amidst those Stars, though heavenly lesser beauties  
The bright Cynthia in her full of Lustre.  
So this no less to be compared Queen,  
Shines above beauty to an humane eye  
That is not mixed with powerful Majesty.  
You may behold her your Divinity,  
My King may comprehend what can befit  
Me only to confess, I do admire.  King. 
O thou art mine. In such a Queen  
And such a Servant never was King so blessed.  
But are there in her Court (although inferior  
To her more Excellent) such special Beauties,  
And in my Theodoric's apprehension?  
You have made choice of one then?  Emb. 
I have seen  
One so agreeable to my affection  
Above all the rest, I cannot but confess  
I strove to be her Servant.  King. 
Doubtless then  
She was a fair one. Theodrick, never fear,  
She is thine own, myself will be thy Spokesman  
If she be worthy of thee.  Emb. 
For fair Virtue  
With all the graces which adorn the mind,  
In best opinion she's unparallelled  
By any Subject, Lady, (I must ever  
Allow Supremacy unto the Queen)  
And for her Person, it appears in all  
Most answerable to her face. Of which here is  
Th' exactest Copy that I could get drawn,  
And without flattery, by the Queens own Lymner.  King. 
Pray let me see't. Indeed it is a sweet one.  
Did he that drew this of the Queen, draw that?  Emb. 
With the same hand.  King. 
But not with the same colours.  
Trust me they're much unlike,  
He wrongs the Queen  
And merits her displeasure even to death,  
T'advance a Servants beauty 'bove her own.  Emb. 
What says your Majesty?  King. 
Keep off a little,  
You stand just in my light. And so he does,  
Twixt me and the prime beauty of the world.  
But I'll be even with him, and cause my Picturer  
To set this Crown upon this head, and then—  
Fie, what a fancy's this? He will perceive me.  
But now I note this Forehead, and this Brow,  
This Eye, this Lip.— (let's fall the other)  Emb. 
You have let fall the Queen Sir. (takes it up)  King. 
I cry her mercy. What a shame it is  
That I should fall in his discovery?  
Are Courts so fraught with fraud and flattery?  
And can a King that governs such professors  
No whit dissemble to obscure his passions?  
I must, and thus begin to practise it.  
Theodrick, didst thou note my contemplation  
Over these Pictures?  Emb. 
I could but perceive  
Your Highness viewing them well. And I have learned  
To make no search into my Sovereign's thoughts.  King. 
Thou art ever modest. Thus it was Theodrick.  
(Protest it rap't me 'bove the pitch of Mortals)  
First to consider what an absolute beauty  
This Queen has in herself; but then to gather  
The circumstances, many such as this  
(As thou affirnist) inferior ●ights to her,  
That shine about her, rendering her more glorious.  
Lights her above affection, to an height  
That claims her adoration. Then marvel not  
That now when this but in Effigy  
Was but placed by her. By which her Majesty  
So much the more appeared, I could not hold  
This Figure of that all to be commanding beauty  
When my high thoughts were fled up to her presence.  
Now take thy piece of craftsmanship again,  
Which trust me is a pretty one; whilst I  
Devote my service to this Deity.  Emb. 
Sir, you have given me the Queen's Picture.  King. 
Ha!  
What a mistake was here? But thou art honest,  
And covetest but thy own; Take it Theodrick.  
Now tell me of what house or Parentage  
Your Mistress is.  Emb. 
I told you first her Virtues,  
Her person next, and by this her beauty,  
Which you are pleased to deem not much amiss.  King. 
'Tis such Theodrick that had I not seen  
This so much above it (pardon my hypocrisy)  
I should have envied any man but thee  
In such a choice. But speak her parentage.  Emb. 
That's all her blemish.  King. 
Is she of tainted blood?  Emb. 
You search with Kingly wisdom. She is daughter  
To that hold obstinate Baron I informed you of,  
Whom the Queen in her just displeasure banished.  King. 
Thy love to her may hereafter plead for him.  
But soft, I am not well.  Emb. 
Heaven bless the King.  
Who waits within there?  King. 
Tarry, let me see  
That Picture once again. It wants exceedingly  
Of this in many things.  Emb. 
I should want judgement  
Not to grant that.  King. 
Here it wants palpably  
The drooping of the brow; and here again  
The dulness of the Eye, which here shows deadly  
But for a little squint it has Good Queen  
You look a squint. Then look you Sir, yours wants.  
You shall not hear me neither, cause I will not  
Spoil your conceit of it. Your Lady wants  
The furious sharpness of the nose, which here  
My Queen has very shrewdly. And again,  
You han't the hanging of the nether lip,  
Which the best Physiognomists do tell us  
Shows women apt to lust, and strong incontinence.  
Phew, This is all too sweet for mortal sense,  
Here, take't again, and keep mine for me with it.  
Lay'em together, th'one may mend the t'other.  Emb. 
I have known women oft marry one another.  
Their Pictures may perhaps have greater virtue.  King. 
I am not well, what kind of Changeling am I?  
A wild confusion rumbles in my brain,  
My thoughts are all at strife.  Emb. 
How fares your Highness?  King. 
Sick, sick, Theodrick.  Emb. 
Retire Sir to your Couch.  Enter 2. Lords. 1. 2. Lor. 
Where is my Lord the King.  King. 
Here yet my Lords.  Emb. 
The King's not well.  1. Lor. 
We have provided for your Highness' journey,  
In such a sort as never King went forth.  King. 
Whither, to Heaven my Lords?  2. Lor. 
Yes, to the Queen.  
Lovers count marriage Heaven before they wed,  
But afterwards I know what some have said.  
Oh this is your honey moon.  
Yes, yes, you shall to Heaven, your Heaven as you call it,  
In such a royal manner. See the Order.  King. 
Pray peace.  Emb. 
You do not well to vex the King  
You see he's sick.  1. Lor. 
Sick? marry Heaven forbid.  2. Lor. 
Sick o'the Wife before he has her.  
Come, a very troth-plight qualm, into your Chamber,  
And at we find you we'll ourselves bestir.  Emb. 
Who waits within there? call the King's Physicians.  Exeunt omnes.  

SCEN. II.  A shout within, the Music, sound the Bells. Enter 4 Clowns with tools. 1. 
AND what's the reason of all this merry glee?  2. 
The King, the King man must be married.  3. 
And must he have a Wife?  2. 
A Wife? a Queen man, and all the Wives in her Dominion  
Must be his Commonwealth, and under us.  4. 
O brave.  2. 
And we must son and daughter it upon their Nation.  4. 
That will be brave indeed.  1. 
O but where is Jeffrey, jolly Jeffrey now? the prick and praise,  
The very prick and praise, and prime Spark of our Parish, to set our Bonfires and our  
Mirth a blazing.  3. 
The Bells a ringing, and the Bowls a trowling, the Fiddlers tumbling &  
Tumbling. O Jeffrey, where art thou Jeffrey?  2. 
He's at hand I warrant you, he went but to Church  
Even now.  4. 
What, to pray at such a time as this?  2. 
No but to help to rear the Tenor, and will come  
Presently.  3. 
That's to be born withal. It is indeed a devilish  
Lopheavy Bell. I would the Churchwarden that  
Should have mended it when he robbed the poor, were  
Huged in's place.  2. 
There said you well. The Curate could say almost as much  
When ' 'twas. But it makes no matter what he says, I see  
Little amended.  3. 
Whoop, here comes Jeffrey sweeting in these affairs.  Ent. Jeffrey. Jeff. 
The great Bells of our Town, they tingle they tangle,  
They jingle they jangle, the Tenor of them goes merrily.  4. 
O Jeffrey, welcome Jeffrey.  Jeff. 
And shall we have a Queen?  All. 
So they say Jeffrey. O the bravest Woman!  Jeff. 
Take heed o''at, woman did you say? Take heed, I  
Give you warning. No man must know she is a woman  
But the King himself, But a brave Queen she is they say,  
And loves a man with all her heart.  
Where art O Queen? we'll make thee  
Such an holy day, as shall  
Justle all the working days out of our Almanac. It  
Shall be said that we will work no more till thy  
Seventh Son, O Queen, who must be born a Prophet, shall  
Foretell, the Age to come shall not have a true labourer  
Or honest workman in it.  1. 
So we may make a long holiday indeed.  Jeff. 
Let work no more be thought on, we will revel it out  
Of remembrance, we will not cease our joy to sleep, for  
Fear we dream of work again. Down with your profane  
Tools; and Implements of Husbandry, the very sight of 'em  
Dishonours our new holy day.  1. 
But Jeffrey, our Master's grudge to give us wood  
Enough to make a beaking Bonfire.  Jeff. 
How?  2. 
They say 'tis waste.  Jeff. 
Not wood to make a Bonfire?  
Your Sheeplocks, Flails, Spades,  
Shovels, Rakes and Pitchforks, shall all be made a Bonfire.  2. 
And so we may be sure to make holy day till.  
We get new ones.  Jeff. 
The maids shall bring their Rocks,  
their Wheels and Reels,  
their Tubs, their Pales & Buttocks.  4. 
Buckets thou wouldst say.  Jeff. 
Where was my mind?  
Their Buckets shall they bring, Washbowls and Butter-churns,  
Their Buckingtubs, Baskets and Battle-doors;  
And all be made a Bonfire for the Queen.  3. 
My mother will not let her house-holdstuff go so.  Jeff. 
We'll burn her for a witch then with all her trash,  
And her thatched mansion too about her Ears,  
But we will show our zeal unto the Queen  
In fire sufficient.  All. 4. 
Ah good Boy.  Jeff. 
'Sfoot, if our Masters do rebel against us  
Now Majesty's on our side, and not give fuel,  
When we mean to give fire, as duty binds  
We'll have their Carts by th' arses, Hardles, Wheelbarrows,  
The Ploughs and Harrows, and the Whips;  
Because the Beasts shall play too; only we'll spare  
Their Racks and Mangers. All that's made of wood  
Belonging to our work besides, shall perish,  
Shall perish, I have said it. Not the Politic  
Molecatcher's staff shall scape the flame.  
Not low us wood? we'll drink up all the drink to the Queen's health  
And burn the Hogsheads, Barrels, Kilderkins,  
Firkins and Roundlets, all to the wooden dish  
Shall smoak for't in our bonfire for the Queen.  All. 
Good boy again.  1. 
But where shall we make this  
Huge and monstrious Bonfire?  Jeff. 
Here, here, just here, in this very place, I come to mark  
The ground, here it shall blaze up to the Heavens, and  
We will roast our Town Bull at it, with a thousand  
Puddings in his belly.  All. 4. 
Ah good Jeffrey still.  Jeff. 
Nothing too dear to signify our loves to the  
King and Queen, let us bestir us therefore,  
And enact this as a law amongst us, That  
He that does not gall his hands to day with.  
Ringing, shall be hanged up in the bell-rope;  
And he that is not sound liquored by night shall  
Be made fuel for our Bonfire; such dry Rascals  
Will burn better than Heretics.  
And last of all, he that does not keep his wench  
Waking in the way that we wots of till to morrow milking time, shall either be  
Gelt, or else led through the Town by that which  
Shall be nameless in a cloven stick. And so God save  
The Queen.  1. 
And the King to.  Jeff. 
The King we make no doubt of, we have prayed  
For him these seven years.  All 4. 
A Jeffrey, a Jeffrey.  Enter a Constable and Alfride. Const. 
Whither away my friends?  Jeff. 
To make the bravest bonfire that ever blazed since.  
Troy, or that which the Tyrant Emperor warmed  
His hands at.  Const. 
You must forbear.  Jeff. 
We must forbear, what Hebrew's that?  
We understand not what must forbear means.  Const. 
You must forbear to make your Bonfire.  Jeff. 
Must? that word had never been named had all been Jeffrey;  
We must forbear to set our loves on fire  
Unto the King, Dost thou not feel thyself  
O man what e'er thou art, becoming a Traitor?  
Know'st thou the words thou speakest against the King?  Const. 
I know what I do speak, and what I am.  1. 
It is the Constable.  Const. 
I know my Office too, by virtue whereof  
I charge you in the King's name, lay by  
Your sports and pastimes, I'll lay you by the heels else.  
Will you Sir know a reason? the King is sick.  Jeff. 
Then let us drink his health.  Const. 
He is sick exceedingly.  Jeff. 
Then let us drink exceedingly.  Const. 
He's sick even unto death.  Jeff. 
Then let us ring our Bells for that, and make a Funeral Bonfire.  Const. 
I say no drinking at all, no Bells, nor no Bonfires,  
It is his Majesty's command,  Jeff. 
I say his Majesty's first word shall stand for Bells and Bonfires,  
Though we set the Town a fire, and ring the Bells backwards.  Const. 
Ye will not be all hanged will ye? see  
Here's a Gentleman and a Courtier, that so signifies his Majesty's pleasure.  Jeff. 
A Gentleman and a Courtier, where be they?  
I see but one.  Alfr. 
Sir I am both.  Jeff. 
What monsters are bred in Africa? I take you but  
For one at most; well, for the Gentleman that you  
Are, thus I salute you; Now for the Courtier that  
Is within you, I must wait upon it here; this posterior posture did  
I learn of a Spaniel whose name was Courtier.  
Now let me tell you Master Gentleman and Courtier, that we are  
Sorry that sickness should make our King and Master  
So fickle headed as to cross our sports thus, that we  
Meant to have made him such an holiday as might  
Have proved more worth to him than a Wife and  
Twenty sicknesses besides: Yet can we not be so sorry for his sickness as that it  
Was his mishap to play mock holiday with us.  Alfr. 
The King shall know your loves, and for your part Master  
Speaker.  Jeff. 
Your Friend and Jeffrey.  Alfr. 
Then Jeffrey be it, I'll promise you preferment, if  
You will up to Court with me.  Jeff. 
Up to the Gallows shall I not?  Alfr. 
My life for thine. And thou shalt not deny me,  
Here's Gold in earnest, take it. The King's disease  
Is melancholy, and thou mayst do him more good  
Than a whole College of Physicians.  Jeff. 
He takes me for a fool, I'll make a venture on't,  
The best is, many a Fool has thrived at Court; and  
The worst is, I am not the first that has forsaken  
His Country. I'll along with you Sir, and if I rise  
By you, I shall quickly learn Courtship enough  
To forget to thank you: And for your parts my  
Old Friends, what need soever you may have of  
Me, you must be sure I'll be a stranger to you.  All 4. 
Wilt thou forsake us Jeffrey? then who shall dance  
The hobby horse at our next Revel rout?  Jeff. 
The hobby horse of preferment gallops me from you;  
If you chance to see me in my rolies hereafter  
When I come to be the Fool Royal, you may admire my  
Garments, and whisper to your acquaintance very softly,  
That you knew me once, But on your Allegiance look  
Not that I should know you then.  1. 
Nay, we are not such Clowns but we have heard that  
Courtiers in favour will know no body.  Jeff. 
'Tis true, for when they are in disgrace the silliest  
Clown will not know them.  Const. 
You were best look to your fast footing then when  
You are high in favour.  Jeff. 
High in fooling thou wouldst say silly Constable; yet there's no  
Great danger. One fool may outstand six favourites.  Alfr. 
Away then as thou art.  Jeff. 
I Sir, I'll take no shift with me, I shall shift  
The better when I come there.  All 4. 
Well, farewel Jeffrey, thy like will never come here.  Jeff. 
Commend me to all the Lasses, and let not them, nor  
Do not you grieve for my departure, nor for  
The holiday that here is lost; instead of which, that  
You may have a new one, I wish that one of you, even he  
That loves me best, as speedily as may be would deserve  
Hanging, that the rest may make holiday for him.  
Sic valete valetote.  1. 
Now the Devil braced crag of him.  2. 
He's a right Courtier already.  4. 
I'm glad he used us no better, If he had  
I should have cried out mine eyes for him.  Exeunt omnes.  

SCEN. III.  Enter Segebert, Anthynus. Seg. 
'TWas a miraculus escape. Good Heaven  
Is with me still. I have not heard  
That any of these native Savages,  
These homebred monsters in humanity,  
These outlaws, these detested Thiefs and Robbers,  
Have enterprised a villainy like this,  
To set with such a violence on men  
Of our weak seeming, poor and needy Pilgrims,  
When I did offer them to shun their blows,  
All that we had even to our bare apparel  Anth. 
It seems their aim was at our blood, not means.  
And doubtless they were some that knew our persons  
Through our disguises, and pursued us hither  
With an inveterate malice to destroy us  
In this wild Desert.  Seg. 
Was it not enough.  
Thou impious Queen, and more unnatural Country,  
To banish me unjustly? but thou must  
Pursue my life by treacherous cruelty?  
Art thou not hurt at all my Son?  Anth. 
Not touched,  
To the least danger of one drop of blood  Seg. 
They are three sturdy Knaves and strongly weaponed.  Anth 
Had they been forty Sir, while I was armed  
By your white Innocence and holy Prayers,  
Heaven's justice lent me hands to bear them off.  
Yet give me leave dear Sir, to ask you now  
Why you have bend your Pilgrimage this way?  
Leading into a country of more danger  
Unto your life and safety, than your own  
Northumberland, whose King cannot but rage  
In greater heat against you then the Queen,  
That so unjustly banished you; you may fall  
(Though you escape the danger of this Forest)  
Into the reach of his revengeful fury.  Seg. 
It was and is my purpose to appear  
In person to that King at my life's price,  
Which I am no more fond of then my Country  
Is of my truth. And when I have made known  
Th' unfitness of the march, by the dishonour  
Hell run into if he proceed in it;  
If then he take my life, I am at home,  
Eternally at home.  Anth. 
But made you none  
Acquainted that you meant to travel this way?  Seg. 
None  
But my dear son Offa.  Anth. 
Then sure the Queen  
Sent her Bloodhounds after you, I perceive  
They could not be mere Thiefs.  Seg. 
Good Angels guard us;  
They have made head again in greater numbers.  Enter Offa disguised and Outlaw's. Anth. 
Take greater courage then.  Off. 
Faint-hearted slaves.  
Must I give hire and do the task myself?  1. Outl. 
'Tis not amiss to help for expedition.  All. 
Upon 'em all at once.  They fight. Anthynus knock down 1. Outlaw. Offa wounds Segebert in the head, he sinks. Anthynus disarms Offa. Offa runs off, whilst Anthynus speaks. Anth. 
This sword thou never handlest more. Take you it and fresh courage Sir. (Anth. Beats off the other and speaks on.)  
May you not cease your flight till you reach Hell,  
That bred ye villains; to pursue ye further  
Were to neglect a nearer duty.  
Dear honoured Sir, look up;  
Father, how do you?  Seg. 
Even almost well I hope.  Anth. 
He means with death,  
Alas he's deeply wounded and bleeds much.  
But what do I in this? I have not tears  
Enough to wash these wounds, although some linen  
To bind them up. But merely to bewail him  
With looks and lamentations is as fruitless  
As here to leave him languishing to death,  
And run in pursuit of his enemies  
To work revenge, Neither of these bring ease.  
Mount up my thoughts to Heaven then for a blessing  
Upon my ready industry, and let each faculty  
Of mine as prompt to works and prayers be.  
How is it now Sir? do I not bind it too hard?  
Pray Sir speak to me.  Seg. 
Offa, oh son Offa!  Anth. 
Offa is not here Sir, 'tis I, your son Anthynus.  
Why look you on that sword so?  Seg. 
O son Offa!  Anth. 
Pray Sir look on me, I fear his memory fails him.  
And as his mind was ever on Offa  
Before unfortunate me; so now he gives  
The merit that belongs (if any be)  
Due to the duty of a son in this  
From me to him. But envy be thou from me.  
Why look you on that sword, and not on me?  
'Twas I that won it for you.  Seg. 
O Anthynus!  Anth. 
That's well said Sir, speak though but faintly to me,  
I had rather hear your groans then find you speechless,  
Better will come I hope.  Seg. 
Help me to rise.  Anth. 
That's comfortably spoken; so, well done  
Like a strong man again.  Seg. 
O I am weak.  Anth. 
Rest upon me, my strength, my all is yours.  
Aeneas that true Trojan son, whose fame  
For piety ever crowns his name  
Had not a will (although my means be poor)  
Exceeding mine to answer nature more,  
Well said, that step became you, we shall on  
I see apace, give me your sword, it troubles you.  Seg. 
No, not this sword.  Anth. 
That's the best sign of all.  
Keep it and hold it fast Sir, we will back  
A little to the Spring we came by, where  
I'll somewhat more accommodate your wounds.  
Heaven, which men's honest pains doth ever bless,  
Will when we least can hope afford redress.  Exeunt. 1. Outl. 
Oh, oh, some help, oh.  Enter an Hermit and Servant with a Basket. Herm. 
Hark, didst thou not hear a cry?  Seru. 
Of nothing but  
My guts that cry within me Sir for meat.  
I hear no other cry, nor have not done.  Outl. 
Oh.  Seru. 
Almost these 5. years.  Herm. 
Peace thou belly-god, 'twas there again.  Seru. 
It is a belly-devil rather, that has tormented me  
 since I served you under ground hereby. No man  
Above ground could have fasted like me.  Herm. 
Hast thou not daily food thou Caterpillar?  Seru. 
Yes, such as Caterpillars eat;  
Blossoms and Buds, many green growing things,  
Such as you make your medicines of, and Roots, would I could get  
Some of the Caterpillars. A dish of Caterpillars fried,  
Let me see in what? in Usurer's grease, if one  
Knew where to get it, might serve to feast an Emperor.  
But we live out o'th' world by Prayer and Fasting.  Herm. 
Thou farest as I far, feedest as oft as I.  Serve 
But Sir, there's difference in our exercises. If I  
Can spend my time, whole days in prayer, as  
You do, this kind of fare or fasting  
Rather, would not be so bitter to me.  Outl. 
Oh.  Herm. 
Didst thou not hear it now?  Seru. 
Yes, something like the croaking of a Frog me thought. If it  
Were one, I would wade up to the waste for't  
For my supper. Here, here Sir, here 'tis, here's more  
Work for you. Once a week we are commonly troubled  
Either to cure or bury one or other, thank the  
Outlaws, they make us work for nothing here, as if we dwelled  
Here for the purpose, nor do I know other indeed.  Herm. 
Look up man, canst thou speak?  Outl. 
O no.  Seru. 
There's great hope of recovery, you hear he  
Says he cannot speak.  Herm. 
Canst thou hold up thy hands, and lift up thine eyes?  Seru. 
He does, he does; hang't he'll do well enough.  Herm. 
Help up his body, than down into my Cave.  Seru. 
And to morrow up with him again, and then down  
Into a grave. Better let him lie now Sir,  
You'll ne'er do good on him I doubt;  
He looks  
So damnably as if the Devil were at my elbow  
For him.  Herm. 
Peace knave, in charity I'll do my best.  
Heaven hitherto my labours well has blessed.  Seru. 
Nay, had I his weight in Venison so near killed, and might be allowed to  
Eat it; I would ask no more flesh while  
I lived. (Here enter Offa and the Outlaws assuring him they are dead)  Enter Anthynus carrying Segebert in his Arms. Anth. 
Can no release be had? is this the place,  
That cursed piece of ground which Nature meant  
Should be called Hell on Earth? where outrage reigns,  
Murder and cruelty beyond it; deep despair  
To a poor remnant of distressed life  
Of all reviving comforts, food, or medicine?  Seg. 
Oh set me down.  Anth. 
And must we needs be set  
By the malicious ignorance of Fortune  
On this internal way?  Seg. 
Patience good Son.  Anth. 
Where ill abounds, and every good is wanting,  
Was't not enough that so much blood was spilt  
From this white reverend head, from which hath flowed  
Counsels that have preserved the blood of Nations?  
And fit now to wear a Diadem  
Itself, than thus be stained with his own wrong.  
Had it not been enough to have left him so,  
Thou Tyrant Fortune, but to take away  
All means of Succour? no relief? no comfort?  Seg. 
Good Son, be not impatient.  Anth 
And see, see,  
Accursed Fate! he bleeds a fresh again,  
As if his blood I now but washed away  
Cried for the rest to follow it.  Seg. 
Indeed,  
Son, this impatience hurts thyself and me.  
Better let me bleed still (bleed's an easy death)  
Then thou displease the awful power of Heaven,  
By chiding at the feigned ones, good take heed.  Anth. 
Me you have justly chidden, and I beg  
Pardon of Heaven and you, and now methinks  
I am inspired unto a further duty  
Of seeking remedy. I'll leave no way untried  
To find it, if I may. And though my absence  
Will sore perplex me; I will with your grief  
Leave you a while to forage for relief.  
But first pray let me change a sword with you Sir;  
Not that I think yours better, but because  
I fear some charm is in't, or secret ill  
'Gainst you, you sigh so when you view it still  Seg. 
Good Son, forbear it, and me unto my thoughts,  
Till thou returnest. Heavens & my blessing with thee.  Anth. 
So strengthened I shall sure find remedy  
To raise you out of this calamity.  Exit Anthynus. Seg. 
This sword Anthynus? no, shouldst rhou but know  
This sword as I do, it would raise thy Fury  
Unto an execution of that horror  
Would shake me in my grave: this sword  
Which now I cannot but with tears remember,  
Was once mine own. I gave it to thy Brother,  
(I will not call him so) but to my Son,  
(Why should I call him so?) but to Offa,  
And so I fear I name my murderer.  
For when I gave it him, I charged him never  
To part with it; he firmly vowed the same,  
And that whilst I or he should live, no man  
Should ever give it motion but himself.  
Were't thou so greedy of my life, my Offa,  
To snatch it from me thus? when as the wounds  
Thy Parricidial hands has given me,  
Are not so bitter as the wronged thoughts,  
Though they are deep and overflow their btinks;  
I have two wounds within me that are deeper,  
Which have discovered in my heart and bowels  
A trebled Spring of dearer blood than this.  
One pricks me with compassion for thee,  
My good, my charitable, pious Son.  
All blessing due to sanctimonious virtue  
Be ever thy companion, till thou art crowned  
Mongst Sons of men the pattern of true Piety.  
What foul mistrusts? puddles of jealousy  
Were lodged in this dark bosom against thee?  
And of affection what a pure stream did run  
By a false Current to my second Son?  
Who by thy truth appears not now thine own.  
Which makes my other wound, in that so long  
I cherished him by doing of thee wrong.  
Now from my heart issue two streams of blood,  
One thick and clotty, th' other clean Vetmilion.  
In the gross blood I vent the wrong conceit  
I swallowed against thee my good Anthynus.  
And in the clear I see Offa's falsehood may  
In both my blood runs forth apace. O  
My thick blood Anthynus be forgiven by thee.  
And the clear cleanse my Offa's treachery  
Oh— (sinks)  Enter Hermit and Servant. Herm. 
Didst thou not heat a groan? a dying groan?  Seru. 
Not I Sir, I heard nothing.  Herm. 
Hark, look about; I am sure I heard a groan.  Sir 
Here Sir, here's something that perhaps has groaned.  
But it's out of hearing now.  Herm. 
And so is pity amongst men.  
Ay me! an old man  
Murdered! A seeming simple innocent old man,  
And yet he holds a sword.  Seru. 
So, more work still.  
Whilst we are gathering Simples to cure one,  
Here's another John Simple laid in our way to bury.  Herm. 
He is yet warm.  Seru. 
I, but he has no breath, not so much I'll undertake as a  
Scolding wise that has been 9 days in the grave.  Herm. 
Alas, he's gone indeed; What ruthless villains  
Can have done this on such an aged man,  
In this so harmless habit?  Seru. 
Good master, let it warn you; though we have hitherto  
Passed by these man Tigers, these wolvish Outlaws safely, early and late, as not  
Worth their malice. Yet pray Sir now since they  
Begin to kill men of this coat, and these years, let us  
Forsake this Savage habitation, and live  
In the world of meat again.  Herm 
How ill are these white hairs bestain d with red?  
Methinks I should have known this face.  
Nothing to wipe  
The blood off? come, help away with him.  Seru. 
He's holp away, and made away enough already methinks.  Herm. 
Why dost not lift?  Seru. 
Sure they have blown their sins into him that killed him,  
He's so heavy, he's deadly heavy. Pray Sir let me  
Fetch my grave instruments & your book and bestow him here.  
You will not bury him in your Cave I'm sure.  Herm. 
I say I'll have him down; perhaps the wounded  
Man that's there may know him.  Seru. 
I would I had but this Fellows weight in buttock Beef. Exeunt.  Enter Anthynus. Anth. 
I come my Father, chide not now my stay;  
In which I was more tardy I confess,  
Then e'er I was in duty. I have brought you—  
Where are you Sir? Ha! this was sure the place,  
And this the very Oak at which I lest him;  
I marked it carefully, and took due heed  
Even to the number of my steps in my  
Departure, how to make my back return,  
Nor was my tarriance such, that in that space  
He could recover strength to shift his ground.  
I wish it were so well with him. My Lord,  
My father, what a mist of doubts stand I  
Amazed in? and my unspeakable amazement  
Is such, that I begin to call my sight  
And memory in question, whither this place?  
Or whither he? or I? or any thing  
Be, or be not; good senses do not leave me,  
My search will be in vain if you forsake me.  
Father, my Lord! where are you? how? or where?  Ecch. 
Here.  Anth. 
That was well said, speak on. (Ex.) Now where?  Ecch. 
Now here. (Anth. within)  Anth. 
Now here? where is that here?  Ecch. 
Here. (Enter Anth.)  Anth. 
I hear and follow, but I know not where.  Ecch. 
Here.  Anth. 
At the same place again?  
If there be place, or I know any thing,  
How is my willingness in search deluded?  
It is the Wood that rings with my complaint,  
And mocking Echo makes her merry with it.  
Cursed be thy babbling, and mayst thou become  
A sport for wanton boys in thy fond answers,  
Or stay, perhaps it was some gentle Spirit  
Hover i'th' Air, that saw his flight to Heaven,  
And would direct me thither after him.  
Good reason, leave me not, but give me leave  
A little to consider nearer home;  
Say his diviner part be taken up  
To those celestial joys, where blessed ones  
Find their inheritance of immortality.  
I cannot think his earthly properties  
So soon could find the passage to that height.  
His body would be here, poor martyred body,  
That though it yet did live, could not part hence  
Without the help of others legs & hands.  
And here haunt none, but such whose Cruelty  
Would toss him into further misery.  
Wild Beasts, if here were any half so ravenous  
As those inhuman mankind monsters were,  
(That drew his blood and these unusual tears)  
Can not devour him all, some particle,  
Some remnant would be left to bless a Son with.  
But here is none but that too sure a sign  
For me to know the place by, where I left him.  
Part of the blood I saw run ftom him. O  
Dear hallowed blood inspire me with this kiss  
To find the fountain whence this stream did flow.  
I will not eat, nor sleep until I know.  
No? canst thou tell me nothing? Then I'll take  
A Sample of the precious store was spilt,  
To keep me still in memory of the guilt:  
And of my vow, never to feed or rest,  
Until I find him here, or with the blessed.  Exit.   

ACT. III.  Enter Theodwald, and meet Ethelswick. Theod. 
I have not known, nor read, nor heard since I  
Was of discretion to know any thing  
Worthy a man's capacity of the like.  Eth. 
You are well met my Lord.  
And you as welcome to the Court my  
Lord, although a sad one.  Eth. 
Came you now from the King my Lord.  Theod. 
Even now.  Eth. 
How left you him good my Lord?  Theod. 
As the Physicians  
I fear must shortly do, not knowing what  
To say to him.  Eth. 
Heaven bless the King, is he  
So dangerously sick?  Theod. 
He's sick enough  
To be prayed for my Lord:  
Although I cannot properly call it  
A sickness: I am sure 'tis a disease  
Both to himself and all that come about him.  
I fear he's brain-cracked, lunatic and Frantic, mad;  
And all the Doctors almost as mad as he,  
Because they cannot find the cause: something  
They guess afflicts his mind, but of what nature  
It is, or how the strong conceit may grow  
They can by no means win or wrest from him.  
Such is the obstinacy of his disease.  Eth. 
Where is Theodrick then, his bosom Friend,  
His special Favourite? He methinks might gain  
The knowledge of his in most thoughts.  Theod. 
'Tis thought  
He put these wild tormenting thoughts into him.  
For which the King has banished him the Court  
And with a guard upon his person sent him  
To live confined at his house. Myself and all,  
The faithful body of the State have moved  
The King for his repeal again to favour.  
Even we that for these two years' space have wished him  
For good State-reasons, favourless and headless,  
Have begged for his enlargement that the King  
Might vent his troubled thoughts into his Breast,  
And so find way to ease: but all in vain,  
He will not hear of him.  Eth. 
You tell me wonders.  
But good my Lord, how takes the King his rest?  Theod. 
Troth as mad mortals do; we cannot tell  
Whether he sleeps at all or not. Sometimes  
He seems to sleep, but then his troubled thoughts  
Express themselves in sighs, in sudden starts,  
In groans, and sometimes speech of odd confused  
And indigested matter; then he leaps  
From off his bed, calls for his horse and Armour,  
Swords, Spears and Battle-axes. But anon  
Bids all be let alone; and calls for books,  
Shoffel's Divinity and Poetry,  
Philosophy & Historical together, sports,  
And throws all by. Then calls for merry  
Which e'er they be presented, he forbids,  
With strong rebukes to all that spend their time  
In any exercise but contemplation  
In solitary places; then walks forth  
Into the Groves and Thickets, charging those  
That follow him (nor dare they disobey)  
To keep aloof at such proportioned distance  
As he unheard by all may vent his passions  
Unto the Air, the Woods, the Rocks, the Springs.  
And twice in these Retirements have we lost him  
In those obscure Meanders which his melancholy  
Has led him to; and when much industry  
And care had found him out, 'twas double trouble  
To wind him and his fancies home again  Eth. 
It is most pitiful.  Enter Physician. Theod. 
Now, how does the King?  Phys. 
Full now my Lord of a new fancy. He  
Is now becoming Pilgrim.  Eth. 
A Pilgrim, why?  Phys. 
I know not why, nor to what shrine, nor do  
I hold it fit to ask him; but to give  
Free way unto his fancy yet a while,  
In all to please and play with his infirmity.  
'Tis our best way to cool Frenetic humours  
Before we kill 'em Sir.  
His Pilgrimage shall not be far, though he pretends a long one.  
He has on his weeds already.  
And who associates him?  Phys. 
Only myself, and his new fool he says.  Theo. 
Good, a fool and a Physician.  Phys 
A Physician and a fool you would say. The Physician ever  
Before the fool, my Lord.  Theod. 
And why the fool before my Lord, I pray?  Phys. 
Your Lordship's pardon, we must have no Lord  
Along with us; though I was sent to inquire  
If you Lord Ethelswick were come to  
Whom the King sent for.  Exit Physician. Theod. 
Sent the King for you,  
After your long retirement in the Country?  Eth. 
He did indeed my Lord.  Theod. 
There's something in't then  
That savours not of madness altogether.  
That having put by your Antagonist,  
The trouble of the Court, his favourite,  
He sends for you immediately upon't.  Enter King, Jeffrey, Alfride and Edelbert. 
Here comes our Pilgrim King.  King. 
Stand all apart  
To be completely armed from head to foot,  
Cannot advance the spirit of a King  
Above the power of love, nor to be clad  
In poorest habit of humility  
Can mortify the least of the desires  
That love inflames man with. No outward dress  
Can change or make affection more or less.  
I have tried all the ways I can to conquer  
Or to humiliate my raging passion,  
Which still grows more predominant o'er my reason.  
I find it in myself, and know my error,  
Though no means to correct it. I do know  
'Tis foully done to slight the Queen that loves me.  
And it was an act no less unprincely  
To cast into suspense my friendly servant  
For what transgression was't in him to love  
One fairer than my choice? before he knew  
My wavering inconstancy. I know  
Withal my punishment is just, how e'er  
My sufferings make me wish it less severe.  
For my unjust removing of Theodrick,  
I lose all helpful counsel, all relief,  
That my o'erburdened breaking heart cries out for.  
Into his breast I could unload my grief,  
Were it composed of aught but his abuse  
I must not, dare not trust him with this story,  
Lest for redress I meet revenge. Who's there?  All. 
My Lord the King.  King. 
O you are welcome Ethelswick, I am now  
To trust you in a serious affair.  Eth. 
My duty binds me to your Highness' service. Kisses the King's hand.  King. 
We will walk forth together Ethelswick.  
Let none presume to follow. Not a man  
Give the least motion this way on your lives.  Jeff. 
not I, neam King? wilt thou not take me with thee?  King. 
Pull the fool off me.  Jeff. 
O but they shall not neam, 'tis more than they  
Can do.  2. Lor. 
No Sir, we'll try.  King 
Again, I charge you all that none presume  
To follow us.  Ex. King and E'the swick. Jeff. 
All? wilt thou leave all thy fools behind thee neam?  1. Lor. 
All fools, Sir, shall be whipped.  Jeff. 
And where will you find wise men to whip 'em all?  
We shall make whipping one another shortly.  
Trust me a trim Court-complement. I am advanced  
To high promotion, am I not? to wear long coats again,  
And feed on whipping cheer? but hark you  
Cousin Lord, do you reward fools at Court?  1. Lor. 
Yes fool, if they deserve it.  Jeff. 
And is desert rewarded here too?  1. Lor. 
Yes.  Jeff. 
Then 'tis desert gets whipping, and Fooling gets teward.  
I'll not forsake the Court for that yet, where I hope to  
Get enough to raise half my Country.  2. Lor. 
By what project I pray thee?  Jeff 
By begging a monopoly, Cousin Lord. You know fools will  
Always be begging, they are naturally inclined to it,  
Else none would be Courtiers.  4. L●r. 
And what is your monopoly?  Jeff 
I hope the King will give it me, if the Lord that  
Walked with him bring him in again as wise as  
He went out.  3. Lord 
What is it thou wouldst beg?  Jeff. 
'Tis a monopoly of fools my Lords. That the King  
Would carry no fools with him but of my election, and  
By my allowance, and that when he comes  
Back into his own Country, he bring no new  
Ones from thence, but by the same Authority.  1. Lor. 
And what price or fee will you set upon a fools head  
For his admittance?  Jeff. 
According to the degree, or estate, or quality of the fool,  
Cousin Lord.  2. Lor. 
This is a covetous and a politic fool.  Jeff. 
Not to politic Cousin Lord, as a Statesman that paid his  
Head for his learning, nor so covetous as a Churchwarden  
May be, when I am dead and gone. But as I was  
A saying, I'll use my fools according to their quality  
Or breed. If he be a poor fool, I'll make him pay the more  
For't. If he be rich, I may be beholding to him another way.  
If he be a fool natural and poorly horn, he's  
Sure to pay enough for't. But if he have more breeding  
Then Capacity, and be a nobly descended fool, I'll use him  
The better for your sakes Cousin Lords, and the rather because  
I hope you will further my suit to the King. And so  
I'll wait his coming in at the back Stairs.  Exit 3. Lor. 
This is a precious Fool.  1. Lor. 
The King (would his infirmity give leave)  
Would be delighted in him.  2. Lor. 
I am glad  
The King has chosen one yet to impart  
(I hope) his grief unto.  3. Lor. 
But is it true,  
The King sent for Lord Ethelswick to Court?  4. Lor. 
Now in his melancholy, and so presently  
On the removing of his loved Theodrick.  1. Lor. 
It is most true, in which we may observe  
A turn of State. Good Ethelswick was dear,  
Dear beloved indeed by our late King,  
And worthily deserved his royal Favour.  
But with his son, our sovereign Lord that is,  
Youthful Theodrick was prime man in grace,  
And quickly shouldered Ethelswick from Court.  
Theodrick's absence now resigns new place  
For Ethelswick to reassume the grace.  
Thus the Court-wheel goes round-like Fortune's ball,  
One Statesman rising on another's fall.  
Let's wait the coming of the King my Lord.  3. Lor. 
We are for the Woods to make a flight or two  
At the Pheasant Edelberts.  4. Lor. 
Alfride agreed.  Enter Anthynus. Anth. 
To fast and watch is duty, and no Penance,  
When such affairs as mine are in pursuit.  
How dare I think of meat or sleep, which are  
Such hindrances to a devotion  
Whose least neglect would pull down Thunder on me;  
And to take sense of weariness were a sin  
Unpardonable. But to have lost 3. days  
And tedious nights in painful diligence,  
In such a search as this, for such a father;  
And now to lose the hope of finding him  
Is torment unexpressible. Where? which way  
Shall I make further inquisition?  
Yes, I will on to the Northumbrian Court,  
And make my griefs appear unto the King.  
My wand'ring steps have almost lead me now  
Unto his Court; where if I may find grace,  
Nay but humanity, I shall prevail  
To have these woods, the dens of barbarous Outlaws,  
In which I lost my Father, strictly searched. (Recorders)  
Ha! do I hear or dream? is this a sound,  
Or is it but my fancy? 'tis the music,  
The music of the Spheres that do applaud  
My purpose of proceeding to the King.  
I'll on; but stay; how? what a strange benumbedness  
Assails and seizes my exterior parts?  
And what a Chaos of confused thoughts  
Does my imagination labour with?  
Till all have wrought themselves into a lump  
Of heaviness, that falls upon mine eyes  
So ponderously that it bows down my head,  
Gins to curb the motion of my tongue,  
And lays such weight of dulness on my Senses,  
That my weak knees are doubling under me.  
There is some charm upon me. Come thou forth  
Thou sacred Relic! suddenly dissolve it.  
I sleep with deathless; for if thus I fall,  
My vow falls on me, and smites me into Ruin.  
But who can stand against the power of Fate?  
Though we foreknow repentance comes too late  Enter six Saxon Kings ghosts crowned, with Sceptres in their hands, etc. They come one after another to Anthynus; then fall into a dance; loud music; after the dance, the first leads away the second, he the third, so all: the last takes up Anthynus, and leaves him standing upright. Anth. 
Am I among the dead? or in what Region  
Either of Earth or Air? Heaven? Hell? or whither?  
Or into what am I translated? Am I  
Alive, or dead, awake, asleep, a man,  
Or airy ghost? or did I see or dream?  
If now I be awake, and am Anthynus,  
That grieved Anthynus who has lost a Father,  
Then did I see in apparition  
The ghosts of our 6. last West Saxon Kings,  
As each succeeded other now passed by me.  
Of which the last Kenwalcus our late King,  
And father to the Tyranness that banished  
Mine, seemed to take me up to his succession;  
It were more idle than a dream can be,  
For me awake to think it possible  
I should become a King, and of that land  
From which my father was exiled; it must  
Be then a dream. As I have heard of men  
That sleeping stand, nay walk and talk as I do,  
At least as I suppose. Now if I sleep  
Not having seen my father, I have broke  
My vow; I'll rather think me dead; then why  
Was I not blessed with my dead Father's sight?  
Why was not he with King Kenwalcus now  
That living loved him so? O my wild thoughts!  
You are become a whirlwind in my brain  
Lifting me up to hurl me down again (Falls.)  Enter to him Alfride, Edelbert, and two followers, as from Hawking. Alfr. 
Go, carry home your Hawks; they are as good.  
As ere made flight.  Edel. 
I would the King had seen  
(His melancholy set apart) our princely sport.  Alfr. 
I hope my good Lord Ethelswick by this time  
Has ta'en the burden of his discontent  
(The cause of his strong malady) from his mind.  Edel. 
I rather think the King has lost him too  
Among the bushes, as he did us last night  Alfr. 
'Tis a strange humour in a King; and as  
Unheard of a disease that works it in him  
To hid himself in by-Walks, Caves, and Thickets.  Edel. 
We shall search hollow Trees, and Crows nests shortly  
For him, if these fits hold him.  Alfr. 
Bless us? look here,  
Is not this he? a witch could not guess righter  
Than thou hast done. Old Ethelswick has lost him;  
And here's the King asleep.  Edel. 
This is the habit,  
The Pilgrim's weed he went in; has he not  
Ended his Pilgrimage here? is he not dead?  Alfr. 
No, he is warm; and breathes like health itself.  Edel. 
'Tis so, my Lord, I vow he sleeps as if  
All the seven sleepers had ta'en up their lodging  
In his fantastic brainpan.  Alfr. 
He has not slept  
We know these four nights.  Edel. 
Hear you, my Lord the King.  
I think he sleeps for them 4, and 4. more.  
I'll undertake a drum, or a whole kennel  
Of scolds cannot wake him.  Alfr. 
'Tis the better for us.  Edel. 
I do conceive you; for we'll take him home,  
And have him put in bed before he wakes  
If it be possible. (up with him) And there  
When he has slept it out, he will perhaps  
Be cured, and give us answerable thanks:  
If not, and that he be offended for  
The breach of his command, in coming near him;  
He shall ne'er know who did it.  Alfr. 
Be it so.  Edel. 
Away then, softly, softly, so, so, softly.  Exeunt with Anthynus asleep. Enter Kings though to bed, and Etheswick King. 
Now my good Ethelswick, I have told thee all,  
By which I find much ease, and hope to sleep:  
But not to take a thought unto my fancy  
By my soft dreams, but of my beauteous Mildred.  
Nor will I in sleep or waking think of any  
Other adventure, till I do attain  
The sight of her, and prithee Ethelswick  
Help me, and suddenly, in my device  
How to contrive a journey secretly  
Not with above one or two trusty servants  
To make this blissful visit.  Eth. 
There are ways  
Enough considerable, by which your Highness  
May pass, and be received there undiscovered.  
Seeming a private Gentleman, or a Pilgrim;  
But here will rise the difficulty, how  
The miss of you at home will be received  
By your Nobility and doubtful People;  
Who cannot long, not knowing where you are,  
But rage in high desire to see your Majesty.  King. 
For that I'll give command before I go,  
That no affairs of State or otherwise,  
No not my diet nor Attendants  
Shall pass to me but by your hands; pretending  
For twenty days a studious privacy,  
To which yourself shall only have admittance,  
And take for all that come my Answers,  
Frame you as you think fit; and who shall dare  
To think me from my Closet or my Bed,  
When you avouch me there?  
As for example, we are now in private,  
Answer you all comers,  
I am busy, or asleep; see how they'll take it. (One knocks.)  Eth. 
That trial is soon made; there's one already;  
Who's there? what's your business?  Theod. 
Within. My business is to wait upon the King;  
My Lord, you know me, I am Theodwald  Eth. 
My Lord, the King is private, and desires to be so;  
And needs now no attendance but mine own.  Theod. 
How fares his Majesty?  Eth. 
Reasonable well.  Theod. 
That's well, he was unreasonable well to day.  
Good night my Lord; Let the King know I pray  
I gave attendance. You understand Court-service  
If it be not i'th' eye, 'tis half lost.  Eth. 
Your service my Lord, though the King take it not in  
At the eye, shall have entrance at the next  
Door, the ear; I'll make it known to him.  
Good night.  Exit Theodwald. King. 
You see how easily he's answered now;  
So will the rest hereafter when they find  
It is my pleasure to be thus retired.  Eth. 
Who are you? another knocks within.  Phys. 
One that must have entrance; the Physician;  
One that brings the King a Preparative to sleep.  Eth. 
What is't composed of Prayers and meditations?  Phys. 
My books yield no such reading.  Eth. 
Nor your Coat any such practice.  Phys. 
I come not to be mocked, but as you tender  
His Highness' rest, let me approach him presently.  Eth. 
Good Sir, the King's at rest already.  Phys. 
Not asleep?  Eth. 
Fast, fast, and welcome Mr. Doctor.  Phys. 
My Lord, you'll let him know my care I hope.  Eth. 
I'll wake him with it when he has slept enough.  Phys. 
Believe't my Lord, it was my care that charmed him.  Eth. 
He had not slept this fortnight else I warrant.  Phys. 
Pray let him know so much.  Ex. Physician. King. 
Ha', ha', they all desire to have their care considered,  
Although in real act they merit nothing.  Eth. 
How now? what saucy Knave is that? (Knock hard, Jeffrey within.  Jeff. 
You are cozened Cousin Lord, it is the Fool, Cousin;  
How does my neam, the King?  Eth. 
Go Fool, follow the Physician, he can tell you.  Jeff. 
I asked my Cousin Doctor already, and he says,  
My neam King's asleep.  Eth. 
And would not you be whipped to come to trouble him then?  Jeff. 
No Cousin Lord, I come to sing him a lullaby  
Out of the dream of the Devil and Dives, shall  
Make him sleep till he wakes again, and it be this month.  Eth. 
Away you Fool, I'll set you a going.  Jeff. 
O Lord, O Cousin Lord, I cannot go for running.  Eth. 
This will become a business.  King. 
But Ethelswick, when I have declared my pleasure,  
As I'll appear, and publicly to morrow,  
To give command that none upon their lives  
Shall give you less respect in this behalf  
Than I myself might claim, it will be easy.  Eth. 
Again? Knock. Eaufrid within.  Eaufr 
Where are you, my Lord Ethelswick?  Eth. 
Your pleasure my Lord Eaufrid.  Eauf. 
May I not see the King?  Eth. 
If you dare take my word, the King commands  
The contrary to all men but myself  
For this night; to morrow you may know  
His highness further pleasure.  Eauf. 
May you enjoy  
This night the greatness of your Office;  
To morrow if I have a King, I'll see and speak with him.  Eth. 
Not if he sleep my Lord.  Eauf. 
You say he sleeps,  
Go to, sleep (quoth a!) yes, perhaps he sleeps,  
'Tis with his Ancestors I fear.  Eth. 
What shall I say my Lord?  Eauf. 
I say, you do not well, my Lord, to keep  
Our duties back from's Majesty, that have  
As well been trusted— I will keep the rest:  
But 'tis not well.  Eth. 
I say, that you do worse,  
Officiously to interrupt his rest.  Eauf. 
I wish his rest as well as you, my Lord,  
Nay more: But I will keep the rest till morning,  
And so joy to the greatness of your Office.  Exit. Eth. 
How thinks your Majesty of this? How will  
Such as he is be satisfied in your absence? Knock  King. 
I'll school 'em all.  Eth. 
Yet more?  Alf. Edel. 
My Lord, my Lord.  Eth. 
What would you have?  Alf. 
Open the door, and quickly.  Eth. 
I may not.  Edel. 
But you must; 'tis for the King.  King. 
How's that?  Alf. 
Delay not, as you'll answered;  
The King's here.  King. 
Is the King there? what traitor's voice is that?  
Let 'em appear; (enter) ha'! who made you King-makers?  Edel. 
God save the King, and bless us all from witchcraft.  Alf. 
We durst have sworn we had had him fast enough here.  King. 
How?  Edel. 
Fast asleep Sir, asleep Sir, look you here.  King. 
Let's see your may-game.  Alf. 
Look you my Lord, and judge.  Edel. 
Or if your Majesty will know yourself,  
(A lesson which a King should not disdain  
To learn) look here, and read the difference,  
If you can find it.  King. 
Is he so like me to your apprehension?  Eth. 
I am amazed to see't; your own eyes, Sir,  
Cannot in likeness answer each the other,  
More than this Face doth yours; his hands, his legs,  
All his dimensions bear the same proportion  
To outward seeming as your Royal Person.  
Nature herself were she now to behold  
Her work on both of you, could scarce distinguish  
By an exterior view, a difference.  
Where did you find this sleeper?  King. 
Peace, no more, ne'er question that; Cupid has heard my prayers.  
Who saw you take him up?  Edel. 
None but our servants,  
Whom we dismissed in the same faith that we  
Were of ourselves, that 'twas your Majesty;  
And as we passed the Court none saw our carriage,  
Which we brought thus obscured that none might take  
Notice of your infirmity.  King. 
'Twas well done;  
Be secret still; nay, I must charge you strongly;  
And if my power be not a spell sufficient  
To work your secrecy, I'll take your heads  
To mine own custody.  Both. 
Sir.  King. 
Nay, I must trust ye; hark you Ethelswick.  Eth. 
I understand your course.  King. 
Come, into our bed with him; gently, so:  
Nay Sir, you shall have Noble Kingly usage;  
Never had stranger entertainment like him.  
I'll give him all I have during his stay.  
Exchange myself with him, and be beholding  
To him besides for th' use I'll make of him.  
I'll tell you all within: Love, that has sent  
This blessing in my way, when I was in  
So great a straight (I cannot think enough on't)  
To bring new life unto my fainting hopes,  
If now I serve thee not with strength and skill,  
Remove me as a Rebel to thy will.  Exeunt omnes.  

ACT. IU.  

SCEN. I.  Enter Offa, 2. Outlaws. Offa. 
YOu are sure they both are dead?  1. Outl 
Both dead and buried;  
The Mould is not more dead from which  
The gold was ta'en, which we attend for,  
Then are their corpse.  2. Outl. 
Nor is the Mine so deep,  
As we laid them in grave; not out  
Of charity, but for our own security.  
That none might find or know them.  Off. 
That was well; but are they dead indeed?  1. 
You saw the old one dead before your sword  
Failed you, and you gave ground.  2. 
When a man's sword is ta'en away, it fails him,  
And when he runs away, he gives ground in our  
Language.  1. 
Then we being two against one, we soon dispatched him.  2. 
Alas he was even spent before, you saw  
The worst of him.  Offa 
But he's dead to you're sure?  1. 
Dead? 'sblood, I have told you threescore times  
They are both dead; so is our fellow too, poor Rogue:  
He bid us take his share betwixt us, and drink it  
To the health of all the Furies in hell, to use  
Him the more kindly. Will you discharge us Sir? we have  
Waited for our hire, while we have lost another bargain  
Of blood worth two on't.  Off. 
They are both dead you say?  2. 
Give us our money Sir, and find 'em you alive, we'll kill  
'Em again for nothing; and you or any friend of yours into  
The bargain if you please.  Off. 
Stay; let me think.  1. 
What's the matter? your conscience sure is cropsick.  Off. 
My conscience tells me 'twas a bloody business, and that  
To pay the price of their dear blood were to  
Augment my sin.  2. 
Is't come to this?— draw.  Off. 
Nay here's your money Gentlemen, but you must stoop for't:  
I dare not look upon the giving of it.  1. 
If that be all, the sight of it shall never trouble you— oh. they sink.  Off. 
Ha', ha', ha'. You have made my conscience whole  
Again with laughing. Why took ye not your money with ye to  
Drink among the Furies? Ha', ha', ha'. D'ye hear my friends?  
Pray stay, take your money; are you so  
Quickly out of hearing? What shallow Rogues were  
These till now? now they are deep enough, men of  
Profound understanding; this Gimcrack I devised for  
Their entertainment; where you shall fast and welcome  
Gentlemen, till you have tried the conclusion, whether Famine  
Can break stone walls; I am sure they are thick enough  
To drown your cries, though they be louder than the  
Voice of vengeance. So ends their Scene. Some conscience now  
Would ask me, why hast thou  
Dispatched thy Father and thy Brother thus?  
But mine informs me, I did very well.  
Your reason Sir, replies the scrupulous conscience?  
Mine roundly answers that my brother was  
Elder than I, and by right to inherit  
My Father's fair possessions, of which  
I have so sweetly tasted. But your Father  
By a most dear and supernatural love  
Gave you the greater blessing; & in time  
Might have conferred all on you by your policy.  
To this again I answer, that my Father,  
Whose dotage merely & not my deserts  
Made him so good to me, might in my absence  
Have idly grown as fond on t'other side.  
For to speak truth, and not to wrong the dead,  
My brother was religious, pious, honest,  
And was endued with all these unknown gifts  
Which holy men call virtues; which in the end  
If they be suffered to run on will find  
Double reward, they say. His could not be  
Found here, but in my loss, and by my Father.  
Now if they may be had i'th' t'other world,  
I am so far from being their hindrance,  
That I have sent them both the nighest way.  
Many good reasons more I could deliver,  
But that I am prevented.  Enter Mildred, Edith. Ed. 
Odds my pity,  
Be comforted good Madam, can you think  
By casting down yourself to raise them up  
From death again? what? you have yet a Brother  
May stead you for a Father, Husband,  
Friend, or what you will.  Mild. 
Gentle Nurse, forbear me.  Offa 
Go prate among the servants.  Ed. 
I have a mind to watch you though a little.  Off. 
YE have heard the news, and mourn for't I perceive,  
Of the unfortunate ends of our dear Father,  
And our beloved brother.  Mild. 
Even drowned in grief too Brother.  Off. 
Troth I was  
Sunk over head and ears; but am crept out  
Of sorrows lake even dropping dry, as they say;  
And have done what I can to shake it off.  
And would now counsel thee, my beauteous Sister,  
To clear those looks again, that only can  
Revive my drooping heart, we only are  
Left now to be each others comforter.  
I have made known my love to you.  Mild. 
O my brother,  
That knowledge is a grief of no less horror,  
Then was the bloody news that pierced my heart.  
Mention that love no more, nor call it love,  
Which is but foul desire.  Off. 
Peace, hear but this,  
D'ye think it is not love? would I desire  
You in that nearest kind, if I not loved you?  Mild. 
What? love a Sister so? are you a man?  Off. 
Sure I do hope so, and that you shall find it.  Mild. 
Can you unto your shame seek my dishonour?  
To damn us both, in that abhorred way  
Which by avoiding, man is best distinguished  
From the most brutish beasts.  Offa 
Peace again.  Mild. 
I cannot, may not peace, nor suffer word  
Importing such a purpose pierce mine ears.  
Twice have I beaten back your monstrous lust,  
(Can I but call it lust, it were too much  
Though in a Monarch to my Virgin honour;  
But in you beastly Incest) and before  
I'll live in danger of one offer more,  
I'll die by mine own hand.  Off. 
You shall not rob  
Me so of my revenge, if you deny me.  
And 'tis another argument of my love,  
If't please you to collect it, that you have lived  
Till now, still obstinate. But be you warned  
And take withal to your consideration  
Your provident Father, and your valiant Brother,  
(Whom you so prized above me) are not now  
To oversee or side you.  Mild. 
He indeed  
Was a most virtuous Brother.  Off. 
Therefore take  
This for your latest warning;  
This night to meet me in my full desires,  
In your as free embraces, or pale death.  
Go clear your eyes, and think on't; but be sure  
You think to do withal as I command you.  
I'll pitch thee headlong into Hell else. Come,  
I know thou wilt affect me; can there be  
A nearer or more requisite love indeed  
Then the sweet mixture of a Brother and Sister?  
Well said, there was a blushing smile, that gave me  
Thy full consent; O thou wilt ravish me.  Mild. 
Pray, let me think a little.  Off. 
Prithee do.  Mild. 
H'as taught me to dissemble; Heaven that knows  
My thoughts are chaste and pure, will pardon me  
I hope, if to preserve my life and him  
From greater sin, I use a little of  
The art too too much practised among women,  
Of smooth hypocrisy. I know his heart is bloody;  
And he may be too sudden, if I win not  
Time on him, by some subtler shift to wave  
His foul attempts, until I get free  
Out of this gripe to use my liberty.  Off. 
What says my Sister now?  Mild. 
My Lord and brother.  Offa 
I marry, this gins well.  Mild. 
That I love  
Your noble person, nay am taken with it,  
With more than sisterly affection, is  
A truth no way to be dissembled; you  
Already like a well read scholar find it,  
In Cupid's love-letters my friend, my maiden blushes.  Off. 
This has some sound in't.  Mild. 
But when I consider,  
What scandal, or what too near Affinity  
In noble blood, and the Nobility of our house,  
(Unfit to fall within the centre of the Law,  
Or the constructions of men's ruder manners)  
May cast upon us.  Off. 
Stay my lovely Mildred;  
What? or whose eye, or thought, shall glance at us?  
Whilst we in safest privacy enjoy  
The bliss of mutual pleasure.  Mild. 
It is yet  
Too intricate a doubt for me to find  
A resolution in. But my sweet Lord,  
(Oh that I could not call you Brother) than  
I would be nearer to you then a Sister.  
So eager and so equal is my love  
With yours; if you please but to give me time,  
But one week's liberty, to frame myself  
Obedient to your will in all, I now  
Will give you a faithful pledge to render  
The satisfaction you demand.  Off. 
A week; what pledge?  Mild. 
A loving kiss.  Off. 
You could not name a better,  
Short of the further happiness I covet.  
Give me't.  Mild. 
But you shall swear by't that you will not  
Abridge my liberty, nor urge your suit  
Further these seven days.  Off. 
By this kiss I swear.  Mild. 
My patience never bought a kiss so dear.  
But keep your vow.  Off. 
Well, well, I'll do my best.  Mild. 
He's not yet perfect, you must strive my love,  
To curb your hot desires, as I do mine.  
I could myself dwell ever on your lips,  
Never out go the circle of your arms.  
Can I but hope to be your wife. But O,  
What I have promised you, I must allow  
At the time limited; till then urge it not.  
For take my vow with yours, if you dare break it,  
I dare to kill myself; and by that time,  
If I not yield myself unto your will,  
My life is yours either to save or kill.  Off. 
Go, thou'rt a noble wench, enjoy thy liberty. Enter Edith.  Ed. 
I have enough, listening is good sometimes.  
Good Heaven! who would have thought it? stay,  
Let me not be too hasty.  Off. 
Yet I fear,  
I shall hardly hold out a week;  
'Tis a great while believe't in such a case  
As this, for one to forbear his own Sister,  
That has so good a mind to't. And perhaps  
This may be cunning in her to delude me.  
Were not I better take her by surprise,  
In a soft sleep to night? sure I shall keep her  
From killing of herself, till I be satisfied.  
And then if she be weary of her life,  
I may be kind enough to help her out on't;  
Because she says she loves me. Out you Beldame,  
How in the name of Lucifer cam'st thou hither?  Ed. 
O my good Lord, I do beseech your Honour,  
Forbear your fury; I have such a business.  Off. 
To eavesdrop have you not? I am not safe,  
Unless I kill this Witch.  Ed. 
My Lord, my Lord,  
You are the Lord that I do look to live by.  
And if I die my Lord, you lose the knowledge  
Of such a secret.  Off. 
Pox upon your secret.  Ed. 
'Tis such a privity.  Off. 
Hell take your privity.  Ed. 
You will repent in Hell my Lord, if you or I  
Should leave the world before you know the thing  
That I can open to you; which when I have unfolded,  
Kill me if you please. I did but watch occasion  
To find you private to reveal it to you.  Off. 
Will you be brief then?  Ed. 
Thus it is my Lord,  
My Lord, your Father's dead.  Off. 
And what of that?  Ed 
So is your elder Brother.  Off. 
So they say forsooth.  Ed. 
But are you sure theyare dead?  Off. 
I ●ear this jade  
Has overheard me.  Ed. 
For d'ye see my Lord,  
I would not in their life time have disclosed  
This hidden matter for a whole world's good.  
And thus it is, your Father and your Brother  
Being dead, Heaven rest their souls.  Off. 
What's that to me?  Ed. 
Nothing my Lord, but now comes that concerns you;  
Your Father and your Brother being gone,  
(Heaven rest their souls) there I begin.  Off. 
You began there before, if that be the beginning,  
Your for ever world without end  
We shall never come at it.  Ed. 
Now that concerns you;  
You think you have a Sister.  Off. 
Do I but think so?  Ed. 
No truly my good Lord, you do but think so.  Off. 
Is Mildred dead? has she destroyed herself?  
Now since she left me here, to spite my love.  Ed. 
You hear me not say so, I saw her not  
Since I left both of you together here.  Off. 
Unfold your riddle Sphinx, I'll dig it else  
Out of your rotten belly. What's your meaning?  Ed. 
Mildred is not your Sister.  Off. 
How? not my Sister?  Ed. 
Not your own natural Sister.  Off. 
Because she is unnatural; didst thou but know  
What a poor easy request she denied me  
Thou wouldst say she were unnatural indeed.  Ed. 
I mean, she was not born of the same mother,  
Nor got by the same father that you were.  Off. 
Speak that again; make but that good, I'll Saint thee.  Ed. 
My Lord, I can and will maintain it, I,  
Not only for some wrong she did me lately,  
Nor for the good my Lord that you may do me,  
Though all the estates your own when she's discarded;  
But to let truth appear, which has been long  
A burden, and an heavy burden, though I say't;  
And so will any woman say, 'tis to keep council  
So many years together as I have done,  
I had much a do to keep it in, I wis,  
In my good old Lords days. Lord how he loved her!  
But few men know their children, that's the truth on't;  
And let that go.  Offa 
I, quickly to the point.  Ed. 
The point is this, I loved my old Lord well;  
Therefore was loath to grieve him; and I loved  
My good old Lady better; therefore I kept  
Her council to this hour: You now are all  
That's left of'em; and whom should I love now  
But your sweet self my Lord? I'll tell you all:  
This Mildred, whom you so long called Sister,  
Was not your Fathers, nor your Mother's child;  
But in the absence of your Father, when  
Sixteen years since he was sent by the King  
Upon an embassy, your mother then with child,  
By sad mischance brought forth a still born babe;  
At the same time a Lady nobly born  
Whose husband was in Exile, brought forth this,  
This Lady Mildred.  Off. 
Then she is nobly born?  Ed. 
Yes, and by woman's slight, of which this is  
Not first example, th' Infants were exchanged;  
Because your loving father might find joy  
In a fair daughter at his home-return.  Off. 
Canst thou prove this?  Ed. 
If in three days I do not  
Make it appear most plain to you, multiply  
Your wrath upon me.  Off. 
Do so; and dost hear?  
I'll never call old woman witch hereafter  
What e'er I think. We may be married now,  
And Mildred's love may freely answer mine.  
We now may safely mix, and to't again,  
Strange strong events are labouring in my brain.  
Come you with me.  Exeunt ambo. Enter Ethelswick, and Edelbert. Eth. 
What fury has possessed 'em? all our art,  
And the King's policy will be prevented,  
By the brain-giddiness of these wilful Lords.  Edel. 
We have no way my Lord, but to give way  
Unto their violent rage, & quit the Court.  Eth. 
And since we can make good our place no longer,  
Post after our King Master, & leave them.  
With their new King at home here, that's as mad  
As they.  Edel. 
And madder too; I cannot wonder  
More what he is, then at the fate that sent him.  Enter Theodwald, Eaufride, Guard, Physician, 2. Attendants. Theod. 
My Lord, both in the King and State's behalf,  
In which you may excuse us.  Eauf. 
Shed, shed, let him take it  
How he or will or dare, we have agreed.  
The body of the Council have decreed it  
You must departed the Court.  Eth. 
Must?  Eauf. 
Mu and shall,  
You and your trim confederate; you have had  
The rule here over your Ruler, till you have made him  
Wild, frantic, mad, and us too; God forgive me  
For saying so, almost as mad as he;  
I hope it is no treason.  Edel. 
No, cause you said almost;  
But had you said you had been full as mad,  
You had passed a Subjects boldness.  Eauf. 
Take 'em hence;  
Thrust 'em out o'th' Court.  Theod. 
Nay, without violence.  Eth. 
Well my Lord, when we see the King in's wits,  
We'll tell him of our usage, that he may thank you.  Eauf. 
In the mean time go travel on adventures,  
Whilst we do our endeavour to amend  
What you have marred by screwing the King's brain  
Into the nick of Order once again. (Put forth a bed, Anthynus on it bond)  
See, see, my Lord, how they have kept him dark,  
Manacled and bound on's bed? was ever King  
Used thus? for pity's sake unbind him quickly.  Anth. 
What Fiends or Fairies are ye?  Phys. 
Let his passion  
A little vent itself,  you unbind him.  Anth. 
What? new tormentors? or into what way  
Of further mischief do ye mean to throw me?  Theod. 
We come to bring your Highness' comfort.  Anth. 
Highness?  
Have you that mockery for me too? I told  
The rest that slaved me with that attribute,  
From whence I came, who, what I was, and all  
The story of my father's wrongs, and mine  
(Too many ever to have been, but heaven  
Marked 'em out for us) and I told 'em too  
What I had undertaken by Watching, Fasting,  
Prayers too (unfit to boast of) with the Industry  
I practised to have found my wounded Father.  
For which (as though I durst have faith in merits)  
They mocked me with the title of a King,  
And bound me here as they thought to believe it.  
'Tis a new way of punishment; and were due  
To one that thought his duty meritorious.  
But I will break these Gives, and with my teeth  
Tear off these manacles.  Phys. 
O do not strive my Liege.  Anth. 
Thy Liege, Dog-leech? are you at that garb too?  
I wish I had one finger lose to fillip out  
Thy brains and skill together for the Ratcatchers.  Phys. 
He thinks my skull's made but of urinal metal.  Theod 
Be patiented Sir.  Anth. 
Sir, yet may be endured.  Eauf 
Have but a little patience, we'll unloose you.  Anth. 
A grave persuasion to a man that's tied to't.  
Humh, humh, humh.  Eauf. 
Beshrew their herds that used him thus to vex him.  
How do you like him Doctor?  Theod. 
Did you mark  
His talk of wrongs, and of a wounded Father?  
And how he will not hear of being a King?  Phys. 
I, all, all, I know all; such fancies fall  
Naturally into this disease, which now  
Is almost a wild Frenzy, that will seldom  
Suffer the Patient think himself to be  
The person that he is; nor oftentimes the Creature,  
But some fourfooted Beast, or feathered Fowl:  
But could I fasten but a slumber on him,  
Which must be the first entrance to my work.  Anth. 
Have you concluded yet your barbarous council?  
If not, take my advice with ye: call the King,  
The King with whose authority you scorn me;  
Let him but hear (for you will never tell him)  
From my own lips how willingly I'll give  
My voice unto his marriage; and I'm sure  
He'll set me free; at least by death.  Eauf. 
Alas,  
What King? what freedom would you have?  
You are our King, and shall command your freedom,  
And all our lives, would you but sleep a while.  Anth. 
Sleep? make no doubt of that; look, I can sleep,  
With as much ease as one bound in a Cart,  
Driving to execution. But do you hear?  
My vow was not to sleep nor eat until  
I had performed a work, which I shall never,  
Never accomplish, now my vow is broken.  
For they by witchcraft charmed me into sleep,  
And tempted me with meat at unawares,  
Before my sleep-drowned senses were collected;  
And put me on these unknown garments here,  
With an hail Master; so betrayed me into  
This irksome folly, or this foolish thraldom.  Theod. 
'Twas a rash vow, and so well broke; you now  
Shall be released: unbind him at my peril.  
These rigorous courses have done hurt upon him;  
We have provided otherwise to please you;  
For we have called Theodrick home again  
Your Favourite, whose absence was a grief to you;  
Nay more, because 'tis thought your languishing love  
Bred your distemper, we have taken care  
For hastening of your marriage; your fair Queen  
Is sent for, and at hand to ease your sorrow.  Anth. 
My Favourite, and my Queen! leave these abuses;  
My hands and feet are now at liberty (Strikes and kicks.)  Theod. 
So is our duty, and if your Majesty  
Will tread our due allegiance into dust,  
We are prepared to suffer.  Anth. 
Would to heaven,  
I could unfold this mystery.  Eauf. 
See my Lord,  
Theodrick is come.  Ent. Theodrick. Theodr. 
Most gracious Sir,  
That I have suffered under your displeasure,  
In being barred your presence, which no less  
Than the all cheering Sun gave life to me,  
Was not so much my grief, as not to know  
What my transgression was; and let me now  
Implore your mercy so far as to name it;  
Which if I cannot clear me of, I'll lose my life, and willingly.  Anth. 
If I could think this serious, 'twere enough  
Almost to turn my sorrows into laughter.  Theodr. 
O turn not from me royal Sir, t' augment  
Your Highness' displeasure; but in case you will not  
Be pleased to name my trespass, give me leave  
To speak what I suppose has troubled you,  
And caused me causelessly to be suspended.  Enter Genius whispering him. Anth. 
I feel a secret instigation in me,  
I hope by some good Angel that inclines me,  
At last to yield a little to these men.  
What wouldst thou say?  Theodr. 
My Lords, and all forbear  
The presence; never fear, all shall be well.  Theodw. 
Heaven grant it.  Eauf. 
Was not this my policy,  
To send for him? more, was it not my wit  
To fashion letters as with's own hand  
To fetch the Queen? you'll see more at her coming.  Exeunt all but Theodrick, Anthy. Theodr. 
 please you now but to review these Pictures.  Anth. 
Good memory help me; this is of the Queen,  
The cruel Queen that banished my good Father;  
And this the lively Image of my Sister.  Theodr. 
Now may it please your grace to recollect,  
How when I told you this was my fair Mistress,  
Your passion first seized on you; and pardon Royal Sir,  
If I have since conjectured my transgression  
Was merely this, that I loved one so fair,  
I dare not yet say fairer than your choice.  
But freely thus, to expiate my trespass,  
As I resign the Picture, I give up  
All interest in her person, never more  
Beyond your free consent to see that Beauty.  Anth. 
I have found all the error, and am taught  
By hidden inspiration to make use on't. (Genius shall whispers him.)  
Give me fresh raiment, I'll take all upon me  
(Their Crown if they will give it) yet me thinks  
This is so like a dream— where else can be  
King Osrick all this while, that he comes not  
To throw me out of this usurped right?  
Strange and new thoughts possess me. (Gen. whispers) Now I call  
To mind the vision that I had of being  
Called to the Throne of the west Saxons Kings.  
It must be by this Queen, whom how to love  
I cannot find. My Genius prompts me, yes  
I hear it now, as by an Angel spoke.  
And that my vow was rashly made, well broke;  
I am confirmed, & come she I am for her. (puts on Hat, Feather, and Cloak) ex. Genius.  
Well said Theodrick; (Theodrick is his name?)  
How do I look Theodrick?  Theodr. 
I can find  
But little change, which I allow to sickness.  Anth. 
Well said, thou never flatterest.  Enter Jeffrey winding an Horn. Jeff. 
News, neam King, news, news;  
News that will make thee well, be'st thou never so sick.  
News that be'st thou never so well, will make thee sick.  
News that will make thee mad, be'st thou never so tame.  
News that be'st thou never so mad, will make thee tame.  Anth. 
What's thy news?  Jeff. 
A wife, a wife, a wife can do all this.  
The Queen is come, and all my Cousin Lords  
Are gone to fetch her in in pomp: Oh ho,  
Knight me, oh Knight me quickly for my news.  Theodr. 
Away you fool.  Jeff. 
Away you Favourite.  
Hinder me not unless I prophesy,  
Kings, Fools and Favourites never shall agree.  
And many years after we are in our graves,  
Fools shall be Knights, and Favourites shall be— known  
From black Sheep, I prophesy.  
Oh ho, she comes, she comes; now neam King,  
Bear up stiff before and meet her. Here's a day,  
And a night towards indeed. Oh ho, the house,  
Gins to reel already, and all our brains turn  
Round; oh ho.  Enter Ushers bare, Kelriick and Elkwin, Theodwald and Eaufride, a Cardinal, the Queen, two Ladies bearing up her Train, Follower's, the Queen Bertha knelt, Anthynus as King takes her up; kisses her; they confer; the four Lords salute and confer; Theodwald and Eaufride give their supposed King's hand to the Cardinal. Kelriick and Elkwin give their Queen's hand to the Cardinal; the Cardinal joins their hands, Anthynus and Bertha kiss; all the Lords embrace; the Exeunt in state as before. Jeff. 
Oh what a night will here be?  
what a night will here be?  
What a beast am I? that I have not at least half  
A score of my wholesome Country Lasses with child now,  
That forty weeks hence the Queen might have her  
Choice of Nurses; there had been a thriving way to raise  
My fortunes indeed. Oh what a night will here be!  Exit.   

ACT. V.  

SCEN. I.  Enter Mildred, Offa. Mildred 
HElp, help, oh help.  Off. 
Your cries will be in vain.  
'Tis not in the power of any flesh but yours,  
To allay, or to prevent my heat of blood.  Mild. 
O you diviner powers that ordained chastity  
To be a virtue, lend your strength to guard it.  Offa 
Thy cries shall be as fruitless as thy life  
If thou offendest me with 'em; hear but this  
Impertinently peevish maid, and tremble  
But to conceive a disobedient thought  
Against my will. Canst thou without my favour,  
Be better than a beggar?  Mild. 
Yet a beggar  
Is better than a Whore.  Off. 
How canst thou judge  
That know'st not what is either? let a wench  
That knows what's what, or has been both, maintain it;  
But this is from the purpose; I am so far  
From casting of thee off to be a beggar,  
As I intent to make thee my rich equal,  
And not a Whore, but wife; you know your Nurse  
Has undertaken to find it lawful for us  
To marry; and canst thou with modesty  
Deny me present pleasure, that within these three days  
Shall confer honour on thee for thy life?  Mild. 
Would you first spoil my honour to repair it?  Off. 
'Tis mine when I contract for't.  Mild. 
Not before  
Our Covenant is passed; that is, the Priest  
Has joined our hearts and hands.  Off. 
By this account,  
A man backs not his Horse before he's paid for't;  
Nor puts his nose into a house before  
He buys the Lease on't; leave your precise folly,  
Madam formality; force me not to force thee,  
Yield with that very breath thou now drawest in,  
Or it returns thy last.  Enter Edith. Ed. 
My Lord, my Lord.  Off. 
This Witch or Devil haunts me.  Ed. 
O my Lord,  
I told you late a wonder; I bring now  
A miracle, a miracle.  Off. 
What with a mischief?  Ed. 
Your Brother is survived from death again;  
My Lord Anthynus is come home and safe,  
The Heavens be praised.  Mild. 
O grant that it be true.  Off. 
Out Hag.  Ed. 
Nay, run me in as far as you can if I lie;  
Up to the Hilts if I lie.  Off. 
What canst thou mean by this?  Ed. 
Nay, what he means I knew not, for he denies his name,  
Says he is not Anthynus, but a Northumbrian Gentleman;  
And desires conference with my Lady Mildred  
From the fine Lord was here (what call you him?)  
The King's great Favourite; But if I am I,  
If you are you, if any thing be any thing,  
It is Anthynus.  Ex. Mildred. Ex. Edith. Off. 
Go you to your Chamber,  
And be not seen I charge you. Let him enter,  
But first send in my servants.  
I did mistrust he lived; O those false Villains,  
That faced me down they killed him, may they be  
A year a famishing. Have you tricks Anthynus?  
How can he think, though he disguised his name  
Or Country, that we should not know his person?  
What should his aim or drift be? stay, perhaps  
He does suspect I was in the action  
Against my father's life and his, & thinks him dead,  
So steals upon me thus as his own ghost,  
To terrify my conscience, shallow, shallow;  
But I'll so fit him; It is most evidently he.  Enter Osrick, Alfride, four Servants, at the other door Arnold. Osr. 
My Lord, how e'er  
Some of your servants are pleased to make themselves  
Merry with a pretended knowledge of me,  
I do presume your honour cannot know me.  Off. 
From one so false never came clearer truth.  Osr. 
What means your honour?  Off. 
It is true, my honour  
Cannot, nay, dares not know thee for a Brother,  
Although mine eyes through tears of grief and anger,  
Discern the monster I have often called so.  Off. 
This is most strange.  Off. 
Look that he come not near me;  
Perfidious Parricide, hast thou killed my Father?  
Destroyed the life that gave thee life? and now  
Seekest by surprise to take mine too?  Osr. 
Pray hear me.  Off. 
Upon him all at once, hue him in pieces;  
I'll bear you out in't; he has killed your Lord.  Osr. 
Forbear your outrage.  Alfr. 
Give us leave to speak.  Offa 
Villains, are they to be obeyed or I?  Arn. 
My Lord, your judgement is too rash upon them.  
Fellows forbear, and forbear you my Lord,  
You shall not so heap blood upon your head;  
I loved my Lord your father, and do prise  
His blood and memory, as becomes a Servant  
Of the best rank: And if at most and worst  
My Lord Anthynus here stand guilty of  
His father's death, you must not be his Judge,  
Nor we his Executioners.  Off. 
Are you  
Become my master, you old Ruffian?  Arn. 
No,  
Your Servant Sir, but subject to the Law;  
The Law that must determine this man's cause,  
Not you, nor we, what ever he deserves.  
And till he shall be censured by that law  
We'll find a Prison for him.  Seru. 
I, to Prison with him.  Osr. 
Will you but hear yet how you are mistaken?  Arn. 
Pray heaven we be, as you may clear yourself;  
That's all the harm we wish you; this must be  
Your course my Lord; would you heap blood upon you?  Alfr. 
Let me but speak a word.  Arn. 
As we go twenty.  Off. 
Away with 'em. Exeunt.  
I could have liked the other shorter way  
Much better; but my knaves will have it thus,  
Yet not to wrong 'em, simple honesty  
May be in such sometimes as well as me.  Exit. Enter Carpenter, Mason, Smith, in Devil's halits; two dark Lanthorus, a Pickaxe and a Rope, with an Engine fastened to a Post, and a bunch of Picklocks. Mass. 
Prithee tread softly yet a little further,  
And we are safe.  Smi. 
Hark, heard ye nothing? whist.  Carp. 
I never knew Thiefs so timorous as you are.  
Can we expect a booty without boldness?  
Besides, have we not shapes if we were spied,  
Able to fright better Believers than  
My politic Lord o'th' house here.  Mass. 
Hark prithee.  Carp. 
All's sure I warrant thee.  Smi. 
I pray it prove so.  Carp. 
Pray on I prithee; prayers become this coat,  
Like swearing in a Surplice; tush, they are all,  
All the whole house asleep, and I heard nothing  
As we passed through it, but usual sleepy sounds,  
Puffing and blowing, shorting farting and such like.  
Yes, I cry mercy, as we passed by the Butler's chamber,  
I heard his bed crackle shrewdly, and I doubt,  
The Dary-maid and he were jumbling of  
A Posset together. Come, now we are safely arrived at the  
Fountain of our hopes, the well of comfort. Smith, lay  
Down your Picklocks, they have done well their office in our passage hither. Mason,  
Advance your Pickaxe, whilst the Carpenter squares out  
Our new work; now for the honour of Artificers; here, here,  
Here is the Trap-door, the mouth of the rich mine, which  
We'll make bold to open. And let men of our Occupations  
Learn the way that many grow rich by, and  
No body knows how they come by their wealth. That  
Is, when they make such concavities as these, for  
Rich men to hid their treasure in, that they  
Make also a privy way for themselves to come and  
Take a share on't.  Mass. 
This covetous Lord by this time has laid in  
An unknown deal of wealth, I warrant you.  Smi. 
But we'll not take away too much at once.  Carp. 
No, we'll but piddle; we'll not take above  
A thousand pounds to night. (opens) So, I'll go down;  
And when I shake the rope, than crane me up again; give me one of  
The Lanterns: So, so, so, let me down handsomely;  
I'll warrant you money, the Devil and all before day yet.  Smi. 
Nay, if we get off clear but with a thousand pound  
Amongst us, it will serve for drinking  
Money till we come for more.  Mass. 
This money will come luckily for a better purpose.  
I have three bastards at nurse and a fourth in the Paniers.  
The rope stirs; pull lustily, this pull for a  
Thousand pound. (Outlaw comes up)  Smi. 
I fear 'tis light gold, methinks he does not weigh  
So heavy as he went down. Comrade, what hast thou  
Brought? what ail'st thou? canst not speak? I hope thou  
Wert not frighted.  1. Outl. 
O help! where am I? drawn from one hell into another? ha'!  Mass. 
Come, leave your fooling, what money have you?  1. Outl. 
Had I the price of Kingdoms I'd give all  
But for one bit of meat; but I have none.  Smi. 
'Slid, he would cozen us; how do you look when you lie?  
Oh me!  Mass. 
What ailest thou?  Smi. 
This is not he; it is a ghastly spirit.  1. Outl. 
What? are you men?  Mass. 
Yes, but we have played the Devils, till we have  
Got a spirit betwixt us.  1. Outl. 
If you be men, help me to food, a little food.  Mass. 
What art thou that canst look thus Piepeck, Crow-trod, or Sparrow-blasted? ha'!  1. Outl. 
O, I am pined with hunger.  Mass. 
Here, stay thy stomach; there's a crust I brought  
To stop the open mouth of the Mastiff, if he had flown at us.  Carp. 
O pull, pull away.  Smi. 
There he is now I am sure.  Carp. 
I shall be devoured else.  Mass. 
What's the matter Fellow?  Carp. 
Take his teeth out o' me, I cannot tell you else.  (Pull up Carp. an Outl. hanging on him) Mass. 
O Cannibal! wilt thou eat a Carpenter?  2. Outl. 
O meat, meat, if you be men.  Mass. 
No, we are Devils; but hare's another crust for thee  
What e'er thou art; we have played the Thiefs to  
Very good purpose.  Carp. 
He has gnawed a piece of my Flank out with's teeth;  
And missed very narrowly certain members of more moment,  
They'd have gone down glib with him; now in the  
Devil's name, what are ye?  Smi. 
Until their crusts be done they cannot tell us.  Mass. 
Come, I do suspect the subtlety of this cruel politic  
Lord; would we were well out on's house. No noise my  
Masters, and we'll bring you to meat enough; and then  
We'll hear your story, and tell our own; a word more  
Here, may cost all our lives.  Smith. 
Take up your tools and lead the way.  Enter Mildred and Edith. Smi. 
Come, softly, softly then.  Mild. 
I will away this night.  Mass. 
Peace, hark.  Ed. 
But Madam.  Mil. 
Had you the only Tongue of all persuasion,  
So much I prise my life, & honour more,  
I would not miss this opportunity  
For all that you could say.  Smi. 
Are not these Spirits?  Carp. 
No evil ones I'll warrant, they are so white;  
Hark a little more.  Ed. 
To night he's troubled 'bout Anthynus coming,  
So that he will not think of lust or wantonness.  Mild. 
That trouble keeps him waking; and I fear  
Will rather spur him forwards then withhold him.  Smi. 
They talk methinks; but I cannot hear what  
For shaking.  Carp. 
Take heed thou dost not jingle thy Picklocks,; slid,  
They'll ring up the house like a alarm bell.  Ed. 
Well, since you are so resolute, would we were out of the  
House once, if we be taken, 'tis not the price of  
A million of Maidenheads, as the market goes, can save  
Our lives.  Carp. 
Good, I have found what spirits they be. They  
Must needs be the wenches that I suspected were in  
The Butler's chamber, and made the stiff standing bedstead that  
I set up but last week, crack like a wicker chair.  
Ah Rogues! I heard ye.  Ed. 
Oh me! we are undone and taken.  Mass. 
I'm glad 'tis no worse.  Carp. 
Peace, if you have a mind to scape out o'th' house alive.  Mild. 
Come Nurse, my fear is over, if they be  
Men, and bring us out o'th' house,  
They cannot be so dangerous as he I scaped.  Carp. 
Did he so put thee to't, my little Bustlepate? what a stout blade's this Butler?  Mil. 
These are good Fellows Nurse.  Carp. 
Yes faith, and fear you nothing for all our devilish  
Outsides; if we scape out o' the house, you scape, and  
If we fail, our necks are sure to hang by't; and so  
On there afore once more in the name of darkness.  Off. 
If my attempt now fail, may my repulse  
Strike lust for ever out of countenance.  (Ent. Offa, light and Dagger.) 
It is decreed she sleeps with me or death  1. Outl. 
'Sdeath, it is he.  2. Outl. 
Let us fall to and beat him.  Carp. 
As you can hope for meat again, or life,  
Look big, and use no words; and so glide by.  Off. 
The night, the place, her fate, and my desire,  
Do all conspire unto my wished advantage.  
And so I come coy Damosel.  (Hid the women under their habits, and so Exeunt all but Offa.) 
Ha'? how? why? where? who? or what can you or I be?  
They are all gone, and I am tottering left  
Upon an Earthquake; gentle, holla, holla,  
Set not too hard old Ops, thou'lt shake thy rider,  
Through thy chinky wrinkles into Limbo.  
I shall sink piecemeal if thou troth so hard.  
So, so, so, Holla, holla, gentle earth.  
Open not here, not near that part of thee  
That has but now disgorged those famished ghosts,  
That with the Furies would have beckoned me  
Along to hell with'em; so, let me down,  
I must not follow yet, but sleep and think upon't.  
I will come time enough you need not fear.  
But first creep back to bed, as nothing were.  Enter Osrick, Ethelswick, Edelred, Alfride. Osr. 
You have told me wonders, which have pierced my soul  
With horror and amazement; yet I must confess,  
In all that I am like to suffer, heaven is just,  
Whilst wrath my wilfulness has pulled upon me;  
Yet pardon, since thou gav'st me that affection  
That wandered with me in this obliqne course,  
This uncouth way, with which I have not strayed  
Further than love might lead an humane frailty.  Eth. 
You do consider well, my Lord, and we  
Beseech you strive to countercheck these crosses  
Still with your Kingly reason.  Osr. 
Yes, and fall upon our present business; there you find me  
Out of a spacious Kingdom of mine own,  
Shut in a narrow Prison; whilst the brother  
Of her, whose love I came to sack, has married  
The Queen I might have had; before I have seen  
His Sister; there was a quick expedition.  Eth. 
My Lord, for that before you lest the Court  
In your supposed distraction; the o'erbusy Lords  
Eaufride and Theodwald, out of strong conceit  
The sight of her would cure you, feigned your letters  
Which fetched the Queen; then banished us the Courth,  
Before we could take notice; we had been  
Strong Traitors else to let that match go forwards.  
Nor heard we of it until now the Post  
That brings the news o'th' Kings and Queens approach  
Arrived here in the City.  Osr. 
All think him then their King still?  Eth. 
Yes, yes, and though he told us who he was;  
The overwise Lords imputed that to his madness.  Osr. 
It seems he was not so mad, but he could take  
The Queen into my bed.  Eth. 
Where she liked him so well  
That she now brings him home unto her own.  
Still thinking him your person.  Osr. 
Whilst I lie here for his,  
Accused of Parricide; but I will not  
Reveal myself till trial. (Ent. Mildred)  
Now all my sufferings are turned into delightful recreations.  
Fairest of Virgins welcome; marvel not  
That at first sight I knew you, when my heart  
Wears the Impression of your Portraiture;  
And all my intellectual faculties  
Bow to no other object but your beauty.  Mild. 
O Sir, lay by this high dissimulation;  
For though I find you now are not my brother.  Osr. 
Lo ye, she knows I am not Anthynus.  
Her virtue like the Sun will clear the mist  
Of error we were lost in.  Mild. 
Not Anthynus?  
Yes, the bright Sun discovers not a truth  
More evident than that you are Anthynus  
Nor ever shined on man I loved so well,  
Or hoped to marry, since you are not my brother.  Osr. 
I understand not this.  Mild. 
Indeed I came  
To tell you so, and could you clear your hand  
Of the foul stain of blood you are accused of,  
Were I sole monarchess of all this Island,  
I'd kneel to beg a bride's place in your bed.  Osr. 
If I can clear myself?  Mild. 
Nay, mark me further;  
If you clear not yourself, I'll not outlive you,  
To call to mind the man that I so loved,  
Butchered his Father; though he were not mine,  
I loved him as a father; oh good heaven!  
How good? how reverend a man was he?  Osr. 
Weep not, but hear me; or hear me though you weep;  
I am not Anthynus.  Mild. 
I may say as well,  
I do not love you.  Osr. 
I never had an hand  
In blood of any man.  Mild. 
Prove that, I am yours.  Osr. 
Fetch me a Priest.  Edel. 
I saw one i'th' next room  
Drinking and singing catches with some Prisoners.  Ed. 
Withhold your hands, Anthynus now again,  
Fair Lady, is your brother.  Mild. 
Why did you mock me then?  Ed. 
To save you from your brother Offa's lust,  
I feigned that you were not his Sister;  
In hope to marry you, he might forbear  
His devilish purpose.  Mild. 
Now I am lost for ever,  
In being the Daughter of a murdered Father,  
And made uncapable of you in marriage.  Osr. 
Yet hear me, and be comforted.  Mild. 
O me!  Ed. 
Hark my Lord Anthynus.  Osr. 
I do not know that name.  Ed. 
Go to, go to; nor you do not remember  
How I behaved myself upon the eating of Spurging  
Comfects, that your Brother Offa gave me,  
And laid the fault on you; pray Jove, I say, this murder  
Be no more his fault than yours.  A shout within. Enter Keeper. Osr. 
Hark, the wide world abroad is filled with joy,  
And must we only be shut from it? now.  Keep. 
My Lord Anthynus.  Osr. 
Still must I be Anthynus?  Keep. 
You are called unto your Trial.  Osr. 
Who are my Judges?  Keep. 
Those that are bribe-free I dare warrant 'em.  
It may perhaps go somewhat the harder with you;  
For nothing but white innocence can quit you,  
Pray heaven you have't about you; even the King  
And Queen, the Queen and King I should have said,  
For she's our Sovereign, 'tis her Law must do it.  Osr. 
What King do you mean then?  Keep. 
King Osrick; you know nothing.  Osr. 
Yes, I know him as well as he knows himself.  Keep. 
Take heed Sir what you say.  Osr. 
I fear him not,  
But am as good as he; now carry me for something.  Mild. 
O pray take heed.  Keep. 
How?  Mild. 
Peace, he did not say so.  Keep. 
'Slid, he's as mad as his brother Offa.  Osr. 
Is Offa mad?  Keep. 
O quite besides himself, and talks the strangeliest  
Of his father's murder, your running away  
And the desire he has to hang his brother here;  
And then he is haunted with spirits too, they say;  
You will know all anon; will you go my Lord?  Osr. 
Yes, will you be so kind as to see my Trial?  Mild. 
Indeed I must not leave you.  Keep. 
'Tis a kind part indeed, and may become  
A Sister; like the wise that would not leave  
Her husband till she saw him totter.  
Set the best foot forward, and the best face  
You can, my Lord, upon the business.  Exeunt. Oboe. Enter Theodwald and Eaufride, Kelrick and Elkwin, Theodrick, Anthynus and Bertha. Omn. 
Long live King Osrick and Queen Bertha.  Anth. 
I join with ye in your wishes for the Queen;  
And wish well to King Osrick as a stranger.  Omn. 
How's this?  Anth. 
But will no longer personate him;  
For now be it known to you that I am no Osrick;  
But he that warns you call me so no more.  Bert. 
What means my love?  Anth. 
Nay, Madam, 'tis most serious.  Kelr. Elkw. 
Bless us!  Theodw. 
He's madder now than e'er he was.  Eauf. 
I am at my wits end too; if marriage  
Will not tame him, I know not what to say to't.  Anth. 
I have told you truth, and your fair grace can witness  
How violently I was thrown upon the fortune,  
I thank those provident Lords, against my vow.  Bert. 
I take it as the providence of Heaven;  
And from the Son of that most injured Father,  
Whom now in my joys strength I could shed tears for.  
I yield you are my head, and I your handmaid.  (She sets him down, and knelt; he takes her up.) Eauf. 
So, so, a few night's trial has got her liking  
For ever fast enough; what notable old Coxcombs  
Have we been made? nay, made ourselves indeed.  Anth. 
Now further know, my Lords,  
I am Anthynus,  
The Son of that old honest Lord, 'gainst whom  
Your sulphurous malice kindled the Queen's anger.  Elkw. 
who'll have an head now for an half penny?  Kelr. 
And for t'other two Tokens mine into the Bargain.  Enter Keeper, with Osrick, Ethelswick, Edith, Alfride, Edelred, Guard. Keep. 
Make way there for the Prisoner.  Eauf. 
See King Osrick.  Theodw. 
I, this is our King indeed.  Theodr. 
O let me wash your feet Sir with my tears.  Osr. 
Thy trespass is thine honour my Theodrick.  
And I must thank your care my Lords, as it deserves,  
Your overreaching care to give my Dignity  
As much as in you lay unto another.  
And for your betters counterfeit in my name,  
By which the Queen is mocked into a marriage.  Theodw. 
That was your policy, your wit, my Lord.  Eauf. 
A shame on't. would I were hanged, that I  
Might hear no more on't.  Bert. 
Fair Sir, the Queen is pleased, and hopes you are  
In her that's so much fairer in your thoughts,  Anth 
My Sister Mildred.  Osr. 
Yet, my noble Brother,  
She stands in fortune equal with yourself,  
In being mine.  Anth. 
But not great Sir, until  
You are acquitted of my father's murder.  Osr. 
I am clear of that, as I am not Anthynus.  
Anthynus is accused, not Osrick Sir,  
Your father is required at your hands.  Bert. 
Ha!  Arn. 
But his accuser reads another lesson  
Now Madam.  Offa brought bound in a Chair. Off. 
Whither do you hurry me!  
If I must answered give me yet some time,  
To make provision of befitting Presents,  
To supply the hard hands of my stern Judges,  
Into a tender feeling of my cause:  
I know what Aeacus loves, what Min●… likes,  
And what will make grave Radam●…thus run.  Anth. 
He is distracted.  Arn. 
Yes, and speaks heinous things  
Against himself, both of my Lords murder,  
And an intended rape against his Sister.  Anth. 
Incestuous monster!  Off. 
Hark, how the Devil lies;  
I have no Sister.  Ed. 
How he's possessed  
Of that strange error? I must satisfy you;  
That was merely feigned by me to save her honour  
From his outrageous lust.  Arn. 
But here comes that  
Clears all at once.  
Welcome my honoured Lords.  (Enter Segebert, Alberto, Jeff, Outlaw.) Jeff. 
A boon, a boon, my gracious Liege.  Arn 
Hold your peace fool.  Seg. 
My Son Anthynus living?  Osr. 
You are my Father in your Daughters-right.  Seg. 
My blessing on my Girl.  Osr. 
But see Anthynus at a greater height.  Anth. 
My Father.  Bert. 
And my Father noble Sir.  
Your pardon, and for ever welcome.  Seg. 
If this were real now, and not a Dream!  Jeff. 
Come, leave your fooling, hear a wise man speak:  
Great King according unto thy behest  
With Knights adventurers I went in quest,  
Through the Woods and Forests wild  
To scour the Dens of Outlaws vild;  
Whence these old men, this Knave I bring  
Together with this Starveling;  
Whom I present not dead, but quick  
Unto thy grace King Osrick.  Arn. 
Look this way fool,  
This is King Osrick man.  Jeff. 
Whose fool am I then?  Osr. 
Mine.  Mild. 
And mine.  Anth. 
Mine.  Bert. 
And mine.  Jeff. 
Whoop, hold a little, best let me be every body's fool  
Round about the house.  
But amongst you all, let me not lose reward;  
I must not fool for nought; the times are hard.  Osr. 
Still the fool's covetous.  Bert. 
I owe thee a just reward, for I proclaimed  
To him that brought this man alive or dead  
A thousand crowns; but since 〈…〉 so fortunate  
To bring him home alive and well recovered  
Out of such danger—  Jeff. 
I shall have nothing shall I?  Bert. 
I'll double thy reward, give thee two thousand crows.  Jeff. 
It is enough in conscience; who bids more?  
For till you are out-bidden, I'll be your fool.  
But can you tell whose Favourite you are then?  Theodr 
Where I was first, I'll ever wish to be.  Osr. 
And I'll be thine Theodrick; for thou in this  
Hast above favour shown me unto bliss.  Seg. 
I have performed your Majesty's command,  
Though not in sending, yet in bringing home  
My banished friend, Lord Alberto, the preserver  
Of my now happy life.  Bert. 
It shall be to his honour; welcome Alberto.  Outl. 
Oh what an heavenly smell of meat is here!  Seg. 
All the unhappiness I now can see  
Is but an argument of tears for thee,  
In whom I'm justly punished.  Anth. 
Take him hence  
From my grieved father's sight.  Seg. 
And pray let care  
Be had for his recovery; his senses may  
Bring a new soul into him, for which I pray.  Off. 
What am I freed?  Arn. 
Yes, yes, my Lord, all's well.  Off. 
I knew my bribes would do it.  Jeff. 
I'll off with him, for 'tis unknown to you  
What good a fool may on a mad man do.  Ex. Arn. Offa, Jeffrey. Seg. 
This sword was evidence enough against him;  
But here's one of the Outlaws that confessed it;  
For whom, since he is penitent, I beg pardon.  Mild. 
The other two his fellows are both extant:  
For whom together with three thievish workmen  
That were strong instruments in my delivery,  
Let me beg mercy.  Anth. 
I have heard of them that robbed my brother's Jewelhouse.  
'Tis a day of grace,  
And we are taught by heavens abundant mercy  
Shown upon us beyond our expectation,  
To imitate that goodness.  Bert. 
I forgive  
All on my part.  Osr. 
I pardon all on mine.  Bert. 
And now right royal Sir, let me entreat  
For former love, to make our last complete,  
You will be pleased a month with us to stay  
In triumphs to commemorate this day.  Osr. 
Next to my sum of happiness my Bride,  
I should have sought that honour, royal Sister.  Anth. 
Thus through tempestuous sighs and showers of tears  
Joy at the last more cheerfully appears.  Exeunt.   
RIC. BROME. Deus dedit his quoque Finem.  
FINIS.