THE nuptials OF Peleus AND THETIS. CONSISTING OF A Mask and a Comedy, OR THE The Great royal Ball, Acted lately in Paris six times BY The King in Person. The Duke of Anjou. The Duke of York. with divers other Noble men. ALSO BY The Princess royal Henrette Marie. The Princess of Conty. The Duchess of Roqvelaure. The Duchess of Crequy. with many other Ladies of Honour. LONDON, Printed for Henry Herringman, and are to be sold at his Shop at the anchor in the lower walk of the New Exchange. 1654. The Stanzas of the royal Ball, with the Argument of every Scene of the Comedy, which gives occasion to every entry in the Ball. THE ARGUMENT. PEleus King of Thessaly being enamoured with Thetis, and crossed by two potent rivals, Jupiter and Neptune, doth so carry the business by the counsels of Chiron, and by the succour of Prometheus, that both the Gods are at the end excluded of their pretensions; Neptune desists by reason of his old age, and Jupiter being the elder of the two, but much more considerable, doth voluntarily renounce his interest. Whereupon Thetis being plainly persuaded of the constancy, and fidelity of her Lover, gives her consent to marry him, so the nuptials are celebrated with a great concourse of Gods and Goddesses. Prometheus also having done good service in the business, and to put a period to his troubles, is there also present, and brings with him the liberal and mechanic Arts which he had invented; Discord also would feign have been there, but that she was ashamed to appear upon the theatre, having been chased out of France, and it had been to no purpose for her to disturb so joyful a meeting. The Singers. Two Rivers of Thessaly. Epidan and Onochone Jupiter Neptune Juno Mercury Peleus' King of Thessaly Thetis Chiron Prometheus A choir of water-Nymphs A choir of Sirens & Tritons A choir of priests of Man. A choir of all the Deities. The Dancers. Apollo, and the nine Muses. Magicians. Fishers of coral The Furies of jelously Savage men and women. The Dryads or Wood-nymphs. Cavaliers of Thessaly Chirons Academists Peleus his Courtiers Thetis young maids of honour The liberal & servile Arts Love juno Hymen Hercules The harmony of the spheres. TO THE MOST EXCELLENT, And highborn Lady, The Lady KATHERINE marchioness of DORCHESTER, etc. Madam; I Believe, no discerning Reader will question my Judgement in point of Election, nor accuse my Election of much presumption in Dedicating this princely new piece to your ladyship. Touching the first, the Fancy coming from that Country which doth challenge as much Interest in your Illustrious blood as England, I humbly conceived it might well become your ladyship to be patroness thereof. Touching the second reason, it having been not only Represented, but Acted so many times (and reserved yet for entertaining Pimentel the Spanish Ambassador) by a Great King in person, with such a number of Princes, Princesses, Nobles, and above a hundred Representators besides, so that the charge of the scene and shows amounted to half a million of French livres; But above all, it being an invention so cried up, so well contrived and traced, so full of wit, and variety of musical airs, with other gentilesses; I deemed it would be a thing not unworthy of your ladyship's private entertainment. Lastly, Madam, the Fancy being so fresh, and suitable to the season, it comes to usher in a happy and healthful spring to your honour, attended with affluences of all Felicity present and future, according to the humble and pregnant votes of My most Highly honoured Lady, Your thrice-Obedient and devoted Servitor JAM. Howel. The first of May 1654. THE PROLOGUE. Apollo and the Nine Muses, Epidan and Onochone Rivers of Thessaly, a choir of water-Nymphs. AT the opening of the theatre, Apollo and the Muses appear upon the top of a mountain, on both sides thereof run two Rivers of Thessaly, and the water-Nymphs being separated in two Quires, fall into the praise of Apollo, inviting him to come down and give a happy Augury to the Loves of Peleus; The said mountain stoops by little and little, whereupon the Rivers and Nymphs retiring, Apollo and the Muses fill the Stage, and compose the first entry of the Ball. The first Entry. Apollo and the Nine Muses. The King represents Apollo, Madam Henriette Princess of England. represents Erato. Madamoisella ofVilleroy. represents Clio. The Duchess of Crequy represents Euterpe. The Duchess of Roquelaure represents Thalia. The Princess of Conty represents Urania. Madam de Monlovet represents Terpsichore. Madam de Saint Simon represents Calliope. Madam d'Olonne represents Melpomene. Madamoiselle de Gourdon represents Polyhimney. THE nuptials Of PELEUS and THETIS; OR; The Great royal Ball. The King of France representing Apollo. MOre bright and better made then all the Gods, Superior to the rest of Dëities by odds, My ForeSPEAKER with immortal beams is crowned, Victorious beauties I raise from the ground, I after Glory always run, Not after Daphne whom I eat. That fierce destructive Python I did quell, That ugly horrid Serpent hatched in Hell, Rebellion, which had poisoned fare and near Fair France I chased from off this hemisphere: I rather had this Monster slay, Then with my Daphne sport and play. Yet it must be at last, early or late I must a female court, it is my Fate, And though I am all God, yet there's a she, Whom with love glances I must deify. And what Nymph, goddess, Queen, or Muse To be my Daphne would refuse. Madam Henriette the Princess of England, representing the muse Erato, which fell to her by lot. My stem is more than of a mortal race; For to great Henry's Granchild all give place: My Innocent and young aspect, Inspires both pity and respect; And he who loudly would complain of Prince's falls and people's reign, Of angry stars, and destiny, Let him but cast his eyes on me. Madamoiselle de Villeroy representing Clio, the inventresse of History. I turn this charming look Sometimes to Doomsday book; These eyes, where in his throne Love sits, make many moan; My Rosy cheeks, my quickening fire, Mad the beholders with desire: And though I am but a young thing, Blown as it were but in this spring; My office is the History to tell Of what a thousand years ago befell. Madam the Duchess of Crequy, representing Euterpe, the inventresse of music. The Mouth of Fame doth tell, In Mine the graces dwell: So red, so small, Loves Queen Had not, nor ere was seen; A hundred beauties more I have in bank and store; Yet none esteems them less: I nature rather bless For those inward parts I have, Which will last me to my Grave. Though I with music use to cheer the mind, Yet in my Pipes no foulness you shall find. M. the Duchess of Roquelaure, representing Thalia, the inventresse of Comedy. There is no heart so free But it will yield to me; I have the true supremacy Of beauty both in front and eye: My glances able are for to recover The sickest amourist, the palest lover: My Comedies, if that you listen well, Are able to redeem a soul from hell. Madame the Princess of Conty, representing Urania the inventresse of Astronomy. The stars in their career Are not so bright and clear As is my mind, which 'bove the Elements Doth soar to view those high syderian Tents. This port, this countenance, and eyes Show I did drop down from the skies. I study their Aspects and Influence, Their Motions, & what good descends from thence. Madam de Montlovet representing Terpsichore inventresse of dances and masks. If for a mortal I am taken, You may perchance be there mistaken, I dart a ray will pierce the heart, And make the centre of it smart: I carry such a Majesty, Which represents Divinity: The graces all in me do dwell, Contending which shall bear the bell: I do preside in masks and Dances, Wounding the looker with my glances. M. the Duchess of San Simon representing Calliope, the inventresse of heroic Poesy. Beauty a treasure of high rate Is my companion and my mate; Of virtues I have such a store, That could enrich a thousand more: I raise my spirits to enhance, (When I am in poetic trance) By high heroic verse the acts Of noble Champions and their facts: The Sock I scorn, the Buskin me Doth raise to immortality. Madam d' Olonne representing Melpomene, the inventresse of tragedy. Although my countenance be grave, Yet pleasure and delights I have▪ I look on Death and Destiny, Yet are my strains Divinity: The passages of virtue I rehearse, Though in an elegiac tragic verse. Madamoiselle de Gourdon representing Polhymny, the inventresse of vocal music. A hundred objects I do see, Although at my Nativity They say I hooded was, my song Will carry one to heaven along, The various postures I do show Will make the Gods themselves to bow; I am the glory of our hills, Where joy both heart and spirit fills. THE FIRST ACT. The first Scnee, where appears a Grott open on both sides. Chiron, Peleus, a dumb choir of Magicians. CHiron adviseth Peleus either to abandon love, or not to lose higher hopes; persuading him, that the old age of his Rivals, might happily give him some assurance, yet he exhorts him for preventing the violence that Jupiter might perchance offer to Thetis, to go upon Mount Caucasus, and implore the help of Prometheus, who with the fire he stole from heaven, had brought thence all the great and sublime sorts of knowledge; and Prometheus would be glad to oblige Peleus in such an occasion to cross the passion of Jupiter, who made him endure such cruel torments; Peleus approves of Chirons counsel, whereupon the Magicians, as they dance, use a charm, carrying him away in a flying chair. The second Entry. Magicians. The Count of Lude, the Marquis of Villequire, and of Genlis, the Lords Bontemps and Cabou, the Lords Verbec, Baptista, and Lambert. The Count of Lude representing a Magician. Let my heart go lose more than to one, If I do love but three, I leisure have To sell love by retale; I cry; I sigh, and ready am to hang, Yet than I vanish in the height of passion. The Marquis of Villequier representing a Magician. The beauty which me charms is like the spring, we ought to love each other, she is fierce, and so am I. A young forceresse may well become a Magician of twenty years. The Marquis of Genlis representing a Musician. Who can make scruple of my art and skill, My reasons in due time have energy enough; If I look fair in any part, Is't not a trick of magic Art? The second Scene, which opens within a perspective where a Sea is seen. Thetis, Neptune, a choir of Sirens▪ and Tritons, a choir of dumb Fishers for coral. Thetis appears upon a great shell attended by a half Demy water God, being encompassed by a fair troop of coral Fishers; On the other side Neptune appears upon another great shell drawn by four Sea horses, and gins to vent his passion to Thetis; but when he perceives that she despiseth him, he suddenly leaves her, and retires with all his train in choler, and striking the Sea with his Trident, he raised such a horrible tempest, that Thetis with all her coral Fishers was forced to descend, who being very joyful to escape the storm, make a dance among themselves to cheer and entertain her with delight. The third Entry. A half Sea-God leading Thetis attended by twelve Fishers of coral. Mounsieur the Count of St. Aignan prime Gentleman of the King's Chamber, is the half Sea-God. The Fishers of coral. The Duke of Anjou the King's only brother, the Duke of York, the Duke Danville, the Count de G'viche, the little Count of Aignan, the Marquis of Mirepoix, Mounsieur Saintot, Mounsieur de la Chesnay, the Lord Bruneau, S. Fre. L'Anglois, and Raynal. The Count Saint Aignan representing a demi Sea-God, begins. I have enhanced my gallantries so high, That Neptune's Court is glorified thereby. They equal the exploits of Paladins, Whose fame the Earth with echoes dims, What a poor thing it is to be A Demy-God by land or Sea? Yet I am one, I'd have it known, It is no stain but a renown, In the fair field of love for to be so Where joy & sadness, flowers and weeds do grow: And for the water-Nymphs none can express Better than I whether theyare fish or flesh. A Madrigal. With a Nymph both fair and cruel; The Fates have called me to a duel My torments endless are, my breast with the Sea surges have like rest. The Duke of Anjou representing a Fisherman. 1. In my fine hooks there's danger, then beware I am a fairer Fisherman by far, Then love himself my hook and line Can catch a creature though Divine. 2. Husbands their cares do double, lest one day I fish within their ponds and catch the prey, So subtle is my wit, that none can see Where I do fish those things which flow from me. 3. I will lance out when Age improves my flanks, In the mean time I keep upon the banks For coral on vermilion lips I fish, And who will hinder me to have my wish? The Duke of York representing a Fisherman. 'tis not for me to fish for coral here, I to another Coast my course must steer, A fatal ground Which Seas surround. There I must fish upon an angry Main, More than two Crowns and sceptres to regain. The Duke Damville representing a Fisherman for coral. I have the same bait, hook and line I had when I could scarce tell nine, A few there are Though ne'er so fair, If I am set Can 'scape my flaxen net. The Count of Guiche representing a Fisherman. Upon the side of a still peaceful pond I use to fish, and dare not go beyond; The time will come that I may also seek The river's Banks, and haply a Sea-creek. The little Count of Aignon representing a Fisherman. As straight and slender as a rush I use to cast my line, and push It on, but I do only catch Small things, I cannot yet attach Great wel-grown fishes, one might make Good cheer with those I cannot take. The Maaquis of Mirepoix representing a Fisherman. Of this sweet Trade of Fishing I intent To be one day a Master, and so mend My fortunes, now, the greatest skill Of a true Fisherman is to be still, And patiented for a while, to make no haste So he may compass well his ends at last. The third Scene. Thetis, Jupiter, Juno, a dumb choir of the Furies of jealousy▪ Jupiter being encompassed with pomp and Majesty, descends from the Air in midst of a great cloud, and propounds to Thetis all the tender & passionate things which might oblige her to be his spouse; but she refuseth this honour out of high respects she owed to Juno, who had been so careful of her Education; whereupon Jupiter was upon point of carrying her away; but as he was wrapping her within the cloud wherein he descended, Juno comes in a whirlwind not so violent as her rage; And after a loud fit of scolding, having brought the furies along with her, the earth opened and disgorgeth a huge horrid Monster; At sight hereof Jupiter letting go his prey, and putting off his design till a more convenient time, returns to Heaven. In the mean time the Furies extremely well pleased to have so opportunely done such a piece of service to Juno, dance all before her, whereupon the goddess Juno having thanked Thetis for her virtuous resistance, takes the furies up with her in the same whirlwind which brought her down to persecute Jupiter in his repose, and in his glory. The fourth Entry. The King, the Duke of Joyeuse, the Marquis of Genlis, Mounsieur Bontemps, the Lords de Lorge, Verpre, Beauchamp, Mollier, le Vacher, Desairs, Dolnist, baptist. For the King representing a fury. Spain, fly from this young fury, fly away, She comes to daunt thee, and with torch in hand Through every corner she doth force her way, To find thee out, 'gainst her thou canst not stand. She persecutes the bad, and makes them read Their guilt within their looks, nay, the same time They mischief work, and do commit the crime, She glides into the Conscience fear and dread. The Duke of Joyeuse representing a Fury. Believe me not, to trust in me forbear, A feigned sweetness on my front I wear, Of me there may be some mistakes, for I do hid my claws and snakes. The Marquis of Genlis representing another Fury. My face is lovely, sweet and debonnair, Such as an honest Fury ought to bear. My heart some poison may contain, Yet serpents lodge not in my brain. THE SECOND ACT. The first Scene. Which represents the top of Caucasus. Prometheus, Peleus, a choir of dumb men, and savage wmen. PEleus being conducted by savage men and women, meets with Prometheus upon a Rock with his Eagle which gnaws upon his heart, and having made a light comparison of their torments, Prometheus assures him that the Oracle of Delphos had foretold that Thetis should bear a son greater than his Father; and that Jupiter also without doubt should be constrained to renounce his pretention, and that Mercury having been sent in his behalf to Jupiter, to acquaint him with the saying of the Oracle, the business should end to his contentment: Peleus hereupon returns to Thessaly extremely comforted, and the savages upon hopes that Prometheus should be freed from his torment, and that Peleus should obtain his hearts desire, could not more lively express their joy then by a dance. The fifth Entry. The Lords of Chesnay, and Joyeux, the Lords la Marre, Monglas, Laleu, Raynall, Roddier, all Savages. We value beauteous cheeks, and how They must be used we also know, Nor such rude savages are we, But civilised we soon may be. The second Scene. Which discovers a place of Gold and stones. Jupiter, Mercury, a dumb choir of Wood-Nymphs. Jupiter meets with Mercury in this fair Palace which he had caused to be prepared in the secret place about Caucasus, to celebrate his nuptials there without the knowledge of Juno, and devising the means how to conduct thither the new spouse; Mercury gave him notice what the Oracle had said; Jupiter being therewith surprised, and fearing that the same disaster might befall him there, which had happened 'twixt him and Saturn, makes love to yield to ambition, and retires to Heaven after he had commanded Mercury to make it known that he would think on't no more, nor do an act so injurious to his Authority; the dryads being Land-Nymphs, fell to be jealous of the good fortune of Thetis a Sea-goddesse, being there as spies to give account to Juno of all the purposes of Jupiter, and they express by a dance the joy they conceived that Jupiter had altered his resolutions. The sixth entry. Dryads or wood-Nymphs. The King, the Dukes of Joyeuse, and of Roquelaure, the Marquis of Genlis, monsieur Bontemps, the Lords of Lorges, Desairs, le Vaiser, Verpre, Beauchamp, Molier, D'Olivet. For the King representing a dryad. 1. A Nymph as great as generous, In Oaks as green as precious I lead a happy train: My youthful branches taper so, As if to heaven they would grow, And stars salute would fain: They spread and shoot so bravely out, that they The glory of their root will not betray. 2. By their rind you well may know With what strength and Sap these grow, and whence it springs. They may be fit Caesar's to make, Or Alexander's for to shake, with thousand earthly Kings. 3. About this proud and royal Tree Others do grow, but modestly They creep more humble than the grass, So that one day 'twil come to pass, This Tree of Heaven may be made Unto the Europian world a shade. The Duke of Joyeuse representing another Wood-Nymph. While the seasons, rude and cold, I wonder none with me makes bold My wood hath this rare quality, it shall Burn, warm, and make no noise at all. The Duke of Roquelaure representing also a dryad. 1. Some hold me for a merry wench, And that I care not much for Continence, I am the greatest babbler I confess, And imitate Vergonda by my tress. 2. There is no forest but doth feel The strokes of my victorious steel, As soon as I do haunt a cops of wood, To bring the Axe among them were as good. 3. I have my vanities, besides my Age By right of Impudence sometimes doth rage, And if a Tree cleffed may chance, They presently impute the cause to me. 4. But to conclude, sweet Nymphs, my pleasures shall Never hurt yours, therefore doubt not at all; To my beloved trunk I'll so adhere, That for to injure others none shall fear. The Marriage of Genlis representing the last dryad. Within the bottom of a Grove A satire thereabouts did rove, Who held my honour at a bay, But hard it was for to display Whether a real satire, or one clad Like satyrs, or indeed a true Dryad. The Third Scene. Which represents a theatre, and at the end of a prospective, a Statue of God Mars. A choir of Mars his Priests, with another dumb choir of Thessalian Knights. The Cavaliers of the principal City of Thessalia being afflicted for the cruelty of Thetis against Peleus their Monarch, do bring in a combat at Barriers to the honour of Mars: in the mean time they offered sacrifices on the other side to the same God, with supplications, that he would employ his credit with Venus for the return of Peleus, and for mollifying the heart of Thetis; At this same time the Statue of Mars having spoken and foretold all good auguries, the Knights quit their arms and dance. The seventh Entry. A combat at Barriers by the Knights of Thessaly. The Count of Saint Aignan chief of the Defendants. Defendants Young Beaufort, San Maury, Desens, Derville. M. Beaufort chief of the Appellants. Appellants Gamard, Clinchant, Ourdanlt, De Hallus. For the Count Sant Aignan representing a Thessalian Knight. Attend me laurels, this combat's made To gain the glory of those irons which hold Me captive, therefore I must be more bold Than any, and employ my trusty blade. What force can launce or sword Against me then afford? THE THIRD ACT. First Scene. Which represents the portal of Thetis Palace. Peleus, Chiron, a choir of Chiron's Academists. PEleus being returned from Caucasus, and living with Chiron, doth resolve by his advices to present himself to Thetis, and to make his address to her with amorous pathetical prayers, which he might do the more confidently by reason of Jupiter's declaration, wherein he resolved not to think any more on her; The Disciples of the said Chiron, the inventor and Master of many differing professions frame a dance to express the joy they conceived for the return of Peleus. The eight Entry. Chiron making his Academy to dance for the entertainment of Peleus. Mounsieur Hesselin Master of Chirons Academists. The Academists habited like Indians. The King, The Lords Saintot, Bontemps emps, and Cabou, the Lords Mollier, Bruneau, Langlois, Beaucham, le Vacher, baptist, D'Olvet, and de Lorges. Chiron the centaur who was to be represented by Mounsieur Hesselin. Be not my friends at all astonished To see a man only for back and head, He happy is who is a beast Backward, and not above the breast. I find no incommodity That I am such a prodigy, Half a man sometimes may need Half a horse for better speed. When I have moralised by sense, (Within my cell) neat and distinct Unto the stable, I withdraw me thence, From Reason taking pleasure in instinct. The Master of the Academy represented by Master Hesselin. If that my pride appear, I reason have, For I instruct all gallant men and brave, Lucre makes me not mercenary, But I do teach all frank and free, If 'mong my scholars * [King.] one be pleased to pay, I can afford the rest a good long day. For the King representing an Academist. This young Academist doth learn so well His part, that all the rest he doth excel; His present (and his future) Grandeur show All mortal his high virtues are below. This Master piece to perfect, it seems that Fortune with Nature did cooperate. The body's exercise is his delight Against his own in many an eager fight; He beaten hath the iron, and made them fly A fair presage of future victory He greater things prepares; And Spain shall find How dextrous he will prove in every kind. He cannot broke any should him exceed, Whether he runs, or leaps, or mounts the Steed, In dancing neatly none surpass him shall, The world admires him, only the Ladies are Wary, nor dare they what they think declare. The second Scene Thetis, Peleus, a dumb choir of Peleus' Courtiers, and the little Maids of honour of Thetis Court. Peleus doth all he can to gain the good grace of Thetis, but she continues still in the same rigour, and as Proteus daughter, taketh advantage of the privilege of her birth to deceive Peleus by various shapes, yet he faints not in the pursuit, but gins to add boldness to affection: at last Thetis transforms herself to a Rock, which Peleus embraceth, and protesteth to perish rather than forsake her; at this last proof of Constancy and love, Thetis yields, and accepts him for her husband; hereupon all Peleus Court falls into an excesss of gladness, which makes the Courtiers to fall a dancing. The ninth entry. Courtiers. The Duke of Candale, the Marquis of Villequier, and of Genlis the Count For the King who should have represented a Courtier. This youthful Courtier hath so high a look, As if for some great King himself he took, He's forward, bold, and cannot be alone, Nothing doth please him more than to come on: He sure will something do: The charge we see he hath is honourable, And for his age very considerable, Some lofty spirits would be glad with less, But he doth fare more glorious things profess, sure he will something do. He ordinary titles doth excel, He would do better, though he now doth well, Had he no process with a neerally, Which yet doth set an edge on Majesty, Sure he will something do The Duke of Candale, representing a Courtier. The Court would not so splendid be and brave, Were I not there, nor half that lustre have: We are the 'ffects of one another, We laugh, and play and sport together, The Courtier may do Fortune a good turn As well as she to him— The Marquis of Villequier, representing another Courtier. Fortune and Love are two odd things, The one is blind, tother hath Wings, It is a tedious task and doubtful gain The true goodwill of either to obtain; For me, I like the lover, who doth go By way of storming, and ends quickly so. I will not knock too long at one hearts door, Lest in the mean time I lose hundreds more. The Marquis of Genlis representing a Courtier also. In the Court a number tends To divers projects, divers ends, All opposed to one another, The sisters oft do cross the brother, Touching myself, I hope to expedit My business by my charming face and wit. The last Scene. Thetis, Peleus, a quire of all the Deities, Prometheus, a dumb quire of loves, Hercules, Hymen, Juno, dumb personages, a so a dumb quire of the liberal and mechanic Arts, a celestial Harmony. Thetis and Peleus appear, being seated upon a high Throne, whereof the upper part changeth to a prospective of the Firmament where the loves are seated; and the other part of the Scene formeth itself into a Cloud, athwart whereof all the deities do glitter, being invited to the Marriage: Hercules brings with him Prometheus freed by Jupiter's order; in the mean time, Juno and Hymen accompanied by the intelligences that compose the celestial Harmony, descending in a great engine, all which being joined to the liberal and mechanic Arts, which were the invention of Prometheus who conducted them thither, a great dance is form on earth below, while the little loves make another in the heavens above at the same time. The last entry. The liberal Arts. Madam de Brancas, Madamoiselle de Mancini, Madamoiselle de Mortsmart, Madamoiselle de la Riviere Bonnevill, Madamoiselle de Fovilloux, Madomoiselle Destree, Madamoiselle de la loupe. Madam Brancas represents Geometry. I trace the earth all over by account, As fare as Pindus or Parnassus' Mount; I Corinth view, where every one Cannot arrive, 'tis I alone Who can by landscapes, maps, and Instruments, Measure all Regions, and their vast extents. Madamoiselle Mancini, representing music. In me a comely spritfull grace, Makes unisons throughout my face: A charming harmony Moves betwixt lips and eye: Sometimes I melt, bring sadnesses and smarts, Which shows I am not welcome to all hearts. Madamoiselle de mortmart, representing logic. My youth, my hue, my eyes do prove, The strongest Reason in the School of Love Is Beauty, 'twill convince the most austere, And make a Fool of a Philosopher: I pray let this serve for an argument, I merit on Parnassus' Hill a Tent. Madamoiselle d' Estre, representing Astronomy. My mind is not so mussled 'mong the clouds, But I can know the causes which by crowds Puzzle us here below; the stars when I Was born, did smile at my Nativity, The Heavens did pour their graces in such store, That ever since it makes me them adore. Madamoiselle delle Rivere Bonnevill represents Grammar. Though young and innocent, I have some fits Of the Green sickness, yet I well may sit Among these sisters, to my A. B. C. there's not an Art but 'tis an obligee: The groundwork I do lay, cut out, and trace, Therefore on Phocis' Hill let me have place. Madam de Fovilloux representing rhetoric. I useful am at Court, Hearts will not yield I snatch away, and so do win the field, I conquer with my tongue which I do file, When I a charming beauty would beguile. Madamoiselle de la Loupe representing arithmetic. My youthful charms make many hearts With groans, and sighs, and sobs to smart Beyond computing, yet could I To number them myself apply, But that thereof I make a small account, They to so many ciphers do amount. Madam de Commenge representing Juno. Having immortal beauty in my face, Where roses bloom, and lilies still have place, What reason is there I should jealous be? Poor mortals be not so deceived in me; I jealousy do scorn with foul disdain, I'll neither give nor take it, 'tis a grain Of cursed, seed that naturally doth bear A dry black leaf, which will the heart strings tear. Hymen represented by the Duke of Joyeuse. I am as serious, as Cupid is a sot, I turn his flames to virtue every jot, Madam de Puy knows well no Blonden is So frequent with chaste maids though full of wish. The Duke Damville representing Hercules. In the behalf of Love whose pleasing bait, Have done me such good offices and bad, I must begin my Labours, and go clad On Venus' shrine, and Altars for to wait; I find my veins and passions all as hot My heart as vigorous as 'twas at first, there's nothing in me that's decayed a jot, For glory also I ne'er more did thirst: Only my feet are not so quick, as when I deceive did my host, and may again. The mechanic Arts. The King represents represents war, The Count St. Aignan represents Agriculture, De Verpre represents Navigation, De Lorges represents Hunting, Le Vacher represents a Goldsmith, Beauchamp represents a Painter, D' olivet represents Chirurgery. The King representing war. Peace, sure thou'lt come at last so much desired, Who hast to heaven thyself so long retired And we must be Thankful to war for thee. Behold she comes, and she to me is sent To make me have a timely sentiment Of Europe's doleful case, lo, she doth bring Laurels & palms, fit presents for a King. Ye charming females, from your eyes It is, that wars and tumults rise You dart the thunderbolts of strife, You have your trumpets, drum and fife, Venus we know is Mars his wife. The Count Saint Aignan represents Agriculture or Husbandry. By toiling much both night and day In Mars his field, & Venus' dales, I glory have obtained, they say, Having still propitious gales; I have got laurels, but the bloom Is passed, the fruit is not yet come. A choir of Loves. The Duke of Anjou the King's brother, the Count of Guiche, the Marquis of Villeroy, the little Count of Saint Aignan, little Rassent page of the Chamber, Laleu, Donart and Aubry. For Mounsieur, representing the first love. Ladies, from this tender spray There may some danger come one day, Ye with caresses flatter him, he you, Ye kiss, & hug him, but you'll find it true, It is a Lions cubb which yond do stroke, Who with his paw in time may make you smoke; He sport's with you, he smiles and mocks, Plays with your jewels, fancies, locks, But take ye heed, for he at length Will gather more increase of strength; Yet, I foresee he will wean quite Himself from all such soft delight; And marching in the steps of his great sires Make Glory the sole Queen of his desires. The Count of Guyche representing another love. All those Loves I do behold Brighter than the burnished gold, Are nothing if compared with me, Whether Fire, or Light they be, I do discover in effect I am all love, when I reflect upon myself— The Marquis of Villeroy representing another Love. I peep to hear what lovers say, When they whisper sport or play; And sometimes lay Traps in their way. For the little Count of Saint Aignan representing another Love. If he be as discreet as is his mother, He will neglect the love of any other, But if the father he be like unto, He mistresses will have & Beauties woo. For little Rassent representing another Love. Our talents are diversified, Each one hath his perfections aside; For me, Till I have wings, 'tis meet I fence myself with feet. FINIS. THE NUPTIALS OF PELEUS AND THETIS. A NEW ITALIAN COMEDY, Whence the preceding MASK was extracted; Made English by a nearer adherence to the Original, then to the French TRANSLATION. — Non seria semper. London. Printed for Henry Herringman, at the Anchor. The PROLOGUE. Apollo and the Muses upon the Pierian Mount; Quires of Water-Nymphs upon the Banks of Epidano and Onochono, Rivers of Thessaly. The NYMPHS to APOLLO. O Living Treasure of the glorious Sky, Who by thy piercing all surveying eye Dost in thy golden armour conquer Night, And so in triumph usherest in the Light: Among the glittering Stars thou dost not shine With greater Lustre, then amongst the nine Aonian Sisters▪ O descend and deign, Great God, (leaving a while Olympian reign) To feast with us: a joyful Augury Vouchsafe to Peleus' passions, whose pure breast May justly merit Hymen for his guest. To the eternal laws of Love, The highest Gods and Saints above Are Subject: Monarchies and sceptres yield▪ To Love, and crown him Victor in the field: ACT I. SCENE i Chiron, Peleus, A choir of dumb Magicians. Chiron. WHy do you thus yourself torment? Peleus. Chiron, How shall I find content? Chiron. Pursue your hopes, and onward go▪ Peleus. Is't possible I should do so? When on my heart a beauty lies That is descended from the Skies; A beauty that's all moving and immense, That hath o'er me such an omnipotence? Moreover, I two Rivals have, No less than Gods, who I outbrave For Neptune with his Trident, and great Jove Are my competitors for Thetis love. Chiron. Peleus, Why do you thus yourself torment? Peleus. Chiron, Where is it I should find content? Chiron. Then follow your fair hopes, and onward go. Peleus. How is it possible I should do so? Chiron. Listen to me, grey hairs do but in vain Attempt young beauties, they will them disdain Though they be Gods: Neptune is rich in years As well as Treasure, Thetis will him jeer. For Jove, besides his age, his rapes and wiles, How he so many Ladies did beguile Will make her shun him: but if you desire To compass your designs, and quench your fire, Behold those Magies that with charmed flight Will guide you safely to Prometheus' sight, Who being bold and wise, is th'only man Who in this Enterprise you pleasure can: He is no friend to Jove, who him torments With such eternal pangs, therefore he will, To help you, exercise his utmost skill. Wherefore take my advice, and hence away To India, through the air cut out your way. Delay is always dangerous to Lovers, He ne'er obtained his ends who hums and hovers. Peleus. This airy journey I will undertake, But though herein Fortune my friend I make Yet are my hopes but small, I have a hint, That thetis' cruel, and her heart is flint. Chiron. When modest beauties to excuses fall, You must not presently it rigour call. The heart ofttimes desires what lips deny, For a huge distance doth betwixt them lie. Peleus. Can it unto my lovesick thoughts appear That what you say hereto is true and clear, Those pangs I suffer in my breast Would turn to case, delight and rest. But fall what will my fate portends. I still will glory in my ends, Which an unmeasurable joy distils, And my so high-swollen heart with comfort fills. Chiron, Peleus. Let a true Lover never lose His hope or courage when he woos: The more his sufferance is, the more Sweetness is kept for him in store. In Cupid's gentle kingdom nothing is Impossible, but one may gain his wish. Chiron. Go on then happily, for who doth know But that your constancy may tell you so? Peleus. On, on, then to my Magies I will go. The Second Scene. Thetis, Neptune, a choir of Tritons, and Meremaids, with a choir of Corral-Fishers. The choir of Tritons and Meremaids. At such a splendid glorious show, What heart but would turn fire and tow? A Pomp so rare, a sight so fair, Is able to perfume the air: Nor Morn nor Sun did ever view So bright and ravishing a hue. At such a splendid glorious show, What heart but would turn fire and tow? Neptune. There is no fence I find, Love will invade my mind. In these moist fields my Rivers run in vain, To quench my fire, or tepifie my pain; Though I in midst of waters lie, Yet do I melt, dissolve and fry; But Thetis, you at last will find it true, To be more fool unto yourself, than you Are cruel unto me. Will you refuse The richest of the Gods, Him who doth use To give those gems that beauties do adorn, Thence, where the Queen of Love herself was born? Thetis. Aurora commonly doth rise Cheerful and smiling to our eyes But suddenly we oftentimes do see, She falls a weeping upon flower and tree. If you desire the cause I should unfold, It is because her * Titan. Consort is so old. Neptune. Thetis, Be not deceived, though I be grey, My waters still are green, and so they may Be wholesomer than Springs, which by and by 'Pon the least drought grow shallower and dry. Youth is unstable, heady, rash; but age Is constant, cautious, provident, and sage. Thetis. I do confess, that you discourse, and reason Like a acquaint amourist, although the season Of Love in you be past. It was for Love The Heavens made Youth, for which the Gods above Have journeyed down to earth; no other age Is fit a Female beauty to engage. Neptune. Perfidious thing, I plainly now do find, Thou art unto another more inclined. Come winds and tempests, and with my lament Your blasts unite; Come, come incontinent, Let hispid blust'ring Boreas from the North, Bring all the Haracanes and Whirlwinds forth, Blow off, and banish from my Kingdom quite This impious girl so full of hate and spite. Revenge the quarrel of your King, And with your vengeance Justice bring: Shall she in my Dominions dwell, Who hath inflamed my heart with fire from hell? Chorus. Ingrateful, rash, and foolish Nymph, canst thou 'Slight thus the greatest of the gods below▪ The grief will be thine own When thou art wiser grown. Neglected amourists may learn from hence, Against blind Cupid's arrows a true fence▪ Disdain of beauty a revenge may be, Though not of love th'expected remedy: The third Scene. Thetis, Juno, Jupiter, A choir of the furies of jealousy: Thetis Now that the fury of the wind Hath left so sweet a calm behind: Now that the storm is gone, I pray let me alone To vent unto myself my moan. Oh me, I find that ambushes are laid. To take me and entrap poor silly maid: What will become of thee my heart? thou'rt like to suffer many a smart. Oh me, Oh me, Poor heart what will become of thee? Thy chastity Love studies to surprise. He's sly and cunning, though not always wise; He Armour hath of every sort For to assault a female Fort: He prays, complains, and pines, He menaceth and whines Now, if another God should join With him, who can me then essoyn? Oh me, Oh me, Poor heart what will become of thee? Jupiter. What can blessed heaven me avail, If still of my desire I fail? Celestial joys, if they to sorrow turn, Far worse than all Tartarean tortures burn▪ O Thetis, thou alone Hast made me quit my Throne, Thou giv'st him law, Who Gods doth aw: It is my destiny and luck, By thee for to be deadly struck; And that which is the greatest wonder, Thy beauty's stronger than my thunder. But come, O come, my Fair, increase my bliss, And let's cohabit both in Pardise. Thetis. O no, Not so. Jupiter. Come and be partner of my Throne Which Hymen offers thee alone; That Empire Love hath thee designed, Come, come my Fair, be not unkind. Thetis. O no, Not so▪ The heavens forbidden I should be said, (Poor innocent and silly maid)▪ For to be such a Rebel as to wrong Her * Juno. bed who trained me all along From my first cradle: I had rather die A thousand deaths, and scorch in Tartary. Jupiter. If you will use such slight Apologies, To him who can command both lair and Skies; To clear your error, and my pain assuage, I must use force, my Dear, but far from rage. Cloud, A cloud appears. gently take her up. Thetis. Oh me. Jupiter. What ails my soul? Thetis. Aim, who helps me? Jupiter. What mortal Creature's he Can thee reprize from me? Juno. Disloyal Jove, Juno with the help of the fishers and furies redeem her is it my hapless fate Thou shouldst so oft thy Faith thus violate? But since in Heaven no Justice can be found, Or Piety among the Stars, the ground Shall open, and styx shall belch forth furies fell: Come then appear, ye ghastly dames of Hell; And help to vindicate The justness of my fate. Jupiter. Farewell my Thetis, so enchanting bright, But know I do not thee abandon quite. Thetis to Juno. Great goddess, I no pardon crave of thee, But pity; though infortunate I be, Yet I am guiltless, and from foulness free. Juno. Such hazards to escape is no offence, Much less misfortune or incontinence. Thetis and Juno. Sweet gratitude doth always rest In of well born gentle breast: The Gods desire no more For those blessings in such store, Which on us Mortals every hour They in silver showers do pour. ACT II. SCENE I. Peleus, Promethus, A choir of dumb men, and savage women. Peleus. INfortunate Prometheus, how thine Eternal torments are like mine! Prometheus. Ah, who is he▪ Thus speaks to me? Peleus 'tis Peleus' King of Thessaly, Who may thy mate for torture be. Prometheus I from the body of the Sun Stole fire e'er scarce the world begun. Peleus And I some fiery glances took From Thetis all enchanting look. Prometheus Jove chasteneth my temerity By this voracious * A Vultur preying upon his heart which still renews. bird you see. Peleus Prometheus, it is Jove the very same Torments likewise with jealousy my flame. Prometheus But yours one day May find allay. Peleus But when, and how? Prometheus Ah, ah, my torments grow. Peleus O cruel pangs some truce and respite give, Prometheus may with counsel me relieve. Prometheus I have received advice from Mercury, The * Jove. Thunderer will Thetis fly, And his Ambition place (as you shall prove) Before her Beauty, or his flames of love; To credit this you may be bold, For by the Oracle it is foretold. Peleus If it be true what issues from that vioce, My soul shall carols sing, my heart rejoice There never was so coy and cruel she, But only sought by one, may conquered be. Prometheus Go, go, return where thou didst leave thy heart, Thou shalt find ease for thy corroding smart. In the vast sea of Love who e'er doth sail Must lose no wind, and then he may prevail. Peleus For this sweet counsel thou hast given me, May heaven, O Prometheus, set thee free. Prometheus The Thunderer may be Less cruel unto me. Prometheus, Peleus O dear, and solacing, sweet blissful Hope, How comforting art Thou to those who cope With rigid beauties? thou dost periods put To black despair; the Gods did justly shut Thee out of Hell; Thy breath though ne'er so small Would ease the damned souls in Pluto's Hall. Peleus to the Savages And you my faithful guides unto this place, Enjoy the comforts also I embrace; Be all partakers of my hopes, and share Some of my joys, which past expressions are. The Second Scene. Jupiter, Mercury, A choir of dumb Dryads, or wooed Nymphs. Jupiter Well, What did the Oracle at Delphos say Touching my love to Thetis, tell me, pray. Mercury Apollo from the Tripod did pronounce, The * Achilles. Son of Thetis (all will see) Shall greater than his Father be. Jupiter How can that be? unless the fates renew In me my * Saturn thrust out of 〈◊〉 by Jupiter his son. Sire's example, and make't true. Mercury That which Prometheus told me also is No less infallible and true than this. Jupiter Then I do find that it doth me behoove To leave commanding Heaven, or not to love. Mercury Which do you most desire, To serve or domineer? Jupiter I hold Love's golden fetter, Then any Empire better, The one doth thousand sweets instil, Th'other the brain with cumbers fill. Mercury Permit me, mighty Jove, to tell you 'tis Folly of a Mortal still to wish, Under the vail of good, to meet the bad, Which goes in virtue's habit often clad. But you which o'er the spheres do sway, And such coruscant beams display; Can you be so transported, as endure That a blind lying Boy should you allure, Who will vapour every where, That he did fetter Jupiter. Thetis, suppose, an idle wench should prove: Have you not Goddesses enough above? If you Olympus lose, where will you find Throughout the world a Kingdom of that kind? Jupiter In your Discourse you go so strongly on That makes me half of your opinion. Mercury Nor can you any true content obtain Whilst you are compassed with a double pain. Juno pursues you with her Furies here, And Thetis may perhaps fly from you there; The one is doubtful, th'other is jealous still, Both may confederate to cross your will. Jupiter 'Tis true, that Juno me pursues, And raiseth furies by whole crews. Mercury She every where doth stir and wheel about, She doth disturb all Heaven to find you out. Jupiter Then Mercury, go and proclaim From Pole to Pole that I disclaim Thetis, and will no more my Honour maim. Go speedily. Mercury Jove, I will fly. Jove Fair Wood Nymphs let this day be Festival That I my wont freedom did recall, Which impious fate and beauty did conspire To captivate with false and fatuous fire. Fair Wood Nymphs let this day by all Be kept hereafter Festival. The Third Scene. A choir of Priests, a dumb choir of Cavaliers at Barriers. The choir of Priests. Great God of War, the prop, defence and stay Of Empires, intercede that Peleus may (By favour of that * Venus. goddess whom alone Thou dost adore, and art to serve so prone) Return to sway again fair Thessaly: Behold that amorous warrior with mild eye. And you brave Champions propitious make Our vows and Altars; let the welkin quake With the high clashings of your Barriers. Peleus at his return will pay you your Arrears. One of the Priests. But stay a little, stay, Our Oracle will something say. The Oracle At last the King of Thessaly Shall home return with mirth and glee. The choir of Priests O news more rare Than Indian pearl, and sweeter far Than that Hyblean juice the Attic Bee Stoved in her cell for Jove's Nativity; And will King Peleus come again? Then Thessaly shall swarm with men. O news more rare Than Indian pearl, and richer far. ACT III. SCENE I. Peleus, Chiron, A dumb choir of Chirons, Academists, or Disciples. Peleus. FOR him who parts from his delight Time makes too quick and rapid flight, But who is travelling to see his Love, Each moment unto him an age doth prove. Hope still with doubts, fruition with fear Is commonly attended every where. Chiron. I with my companions here Did think to find you full of cheer. Now that you are a Champion o'er the Gods, Of whom for Faith and Love you have such odds; Why do you thus afflict yourself with pain? Faint heart did ne'er a Lady's favour gain. Chiron. Sometimes my spirits are alert and high, Then they begin to languish presently; Because I fear that Thetis heart May Marble prove; hence comes my smart. Chiron. You are deceived; when Thetis knowledge had You left fair Greece, and undertook so bad And hazardous a journey to find ease, The fury of your passion to appease; She with a pitying paleness than was struck, And sighing said, The Stars send him good luck. Go, lay close siege, and let her see You are resolved for Battery. The Female who believes she's truly loved, Need not by too long Prayers to be moved. Peleus. Your counsel's good: now with alacrity I will both Love and Fortune try; And of the business you shall quickly see I'll make a shaft or bolt. But where is she? Chiron. I'll go in quest of her. In the mean time let my Disciples dance, We will be fortunate in spite of chance: The second Scene. Thetis, Peleus, A choir of Peleus' Courtiers. Thetis Love, if you will enter like a friend, Lay down your arms, let peace attend Your purposes, and so you may Be welcome, and so win the day. If boisterously you me assault, Come not near me, but make a halt: Be sure not to torment my heart, Or with your passions make it smart. Peleus. O Thetis, you desire to shun That which yourself to me have done. Thetis Ohime. Peleus. My Dear, What do you fear? Thetis Ohime, when you were far from hence Love did do much for you; but now You are so near, I fear with violence He will assault me with his bow. I pray retire. Peleus. Will you with such a heart of flint and steel Convert those pleasing passions which I feel To pangs? Shall he still languish With tears, with doubtfulness and anguish, Who loves your eyes More than the Stars or Skies? Thetis These words an amorous pleasure do instil Into my breast, my thoughts with fancies swill; Fool that I am, I who have made a vow To any Love enchantments ne'er to bow; I who two Gods for marriage did refuse, Shall I yield now And lovesick grow? I pray retire. Peleus. From those fair eyes I will not part, Who have infused into my heart Grief, and content, with constancy; All Trophies of your chastity, And of my Faith: where ere you go I will adore your shadow too and fro. Thetis to herself 'Gainst such a charming violence If I can find no guard or fence, I'll have recourse for quenching of this fire Unto the Arts of Proteus my great Sire. Peleus will then desist, unless he fall In love with Lions, Monsters, Rocks and all. Peleus. Dear, What's that you whisper? Thetis May your laments Find their contents. Peleus Oh pleasing accents! Thetis. But Peleus now I will you disabuse, They are feigned fancies which you thus amuse When you made me the object of your mind You took me for a Nymph, A cloud appears, wherein Thetis enters. but you shall find I am a ravenous Lion, a hard Rock, A Monster that wears clouds in lieu of smock. Peleus. My sweetest friend, What do you now intent? Thetis. I'll wrap myself within that cloud: Peleus Do not do so, The Cloud vanishes and Thetis turns herself into a Lion for I shall cry aloud. O heaven bless me, what do I see! Can such a beauteous Creature turn to be A beast of such immane ferocity? You cannot fright me, or make an escape, My Thetis I'll pursue in any shape. What do I see? She transforms herself into a Monster. This shape becomes you well, And shows that you are cruel, fierce and fell. But all this cunning will not serve your turn, The more you horrid are, the more I burn. A Sacrifice of sighs and groans I'll offer though you change to stones. Dear, take your shape again, And ease me of this pungent pain. Thetis. O God, The more I monstrous make myself in show, Thetis resumes herself. The more my spirits melt, and gentle grow. I am almost in Love. Peleus Almost! That word my panting breast doth pierce, And shows you still are cruel, fell and fierce, In lieu of solacing my love-swoln mind, It leaves a double agony behind, Ohime, what Lions, Monsters thus oppose My virtuous Love, and make themselves my foes? Thetis to herself. I know not where to turn, my spirits are in such a strange confusion, yet I dare Not say I love as yet; my hot desire I will suppress and quench this raging fire. The tongue shall give my heart the lie; I'll make no haste, Though I must yield at last, There is no remedy. Peleus Dear Thetis, cast on him a pitying eye, Whose breast for thee with candent coals doth fry. Thetis to herself. Distracted soul, 'tis too too true, I must bid now Virginity adieu. But sure my lips and faltering tongue doth err, Oh did my heart do so; I must prefer The heart before the tongue, because the last▪ Lesle noble is; i'th' Heart Dame Nature placed The pure arterial and illustrious blood; I fear that I am too well understood. By Peleus. Ohime, by soft degrees I find That cunning little God, though blind, Doth make his way into my breast, Maugre myself, I must make him my guest. Yet I must try once more this Boy to mock, And turn myself into a senseless Rock: Peleus Have I again lost Thetis? Thetis doth metamorphose herself into a Rock. is she gone? Must I to stones and rocks make now my moan? O precious crystal Rock, thou now dost hold A gem more rich than Diamond or Gold; He embraceth the Rock, and weeps upon it. I fear that at the foot of this hard Rock My Hope will shipwreck by a fatal shock. But for strong water made of Mercury, I'll try with tears this Rock to mollify. My heat is such, 'twill me to ashes turn, Then will I make this precious Rock my urn. The Rock vanisheth▪ whereupon Thetis resumes her shape and speaks. Love, Lo, I yield, I can no more resist Thy all subduing power, or persist In my first purposes, thy dart Hath split in two my tender heart. Who have no hearts at all are only fit To cope with thee, and fence away thy hit. Lo Peleus I am thine. Peleus in a kind of rapture. Hold heart, do not too wide thyself dilate, Lest by excess of joy I draw my fate Too soon upon me, and so die Ere I make use of Victory. And you my faithful followers rejoice, And cleave the air with your triumphing voice: The Courtiers▪ sing. You have been sharers of my misery, Now you shall share of my prosperity. The last Scene. Thetis, Peleus, Prometheus, a choir of Deities, * Who had freed Prometheus. Hercules, Juno, Hymen, with the Liberal and Servile Arts. Thetis and Peleus Now our Desires Do flame with equal fires. And there doth nothing want but constancy, For to complete both our Felicity. Peleus. Thetis, Thou art my chiefest good. Thetis And you my heart and precious blood. Thetis and Peleus Behold the Gods are come to be our Guests, And learn of us what it is to be blessed. Prometheus Peleus, We now are both from tortures free; You Hymen helped, and Hercules helped me. And to oblige us further, they are here To mingle joy with us, and make good cheer. The choir of Deities To them who languish In pain and anguish, Love gives at last A sweet repast. Thetis, Peleus, Prometheus Just heaven ne'er fails, and Powers above To recompense a virtuous constant Love; Grief, cares, and pain Turn all at last to gain. By this we find adversity to be The surest road to true Felicity. FINIS.