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A
Tragi-Comedy,
* Tranilated out of the French
OF
' -jkt-r
MONSIEUR, CORNEILLE,
By
As it was Acted at the Theatre-Royal
DUB'L I N
Together with an Exa<ft Catalogue of all
the Englifti STAGE-PLAYS printed, till
this prefent Year 1671.
Licenfed Tec. 1 6.\6yo. PogerL'ejlrange.
LONDON:
Printed for Francis Kirktnan, and are to be fold at his Shop
inThames'Jlreet over againft the Cuflom-IIcufe. i6ji.
TO THE
RIGHT HONORABLE
THOMAS,
Earl of Offory.
Shly Lord,
THis PIECE being made Englifli in your
Honors Service, and by your Command,
having already paffed the Suffrage of the
Stage, and now made more publique by pa/ling
the Trefs, I thought it my Duty (in the Authors
abfence) to prefent it to your Honor : Ifhallnot
fay any thing of the PLAY, becaufe I had no
hand in it; but I have made bold to that, to add
a Catalogue of all the Englifh Plays hitherto prin¬
ted. I have done it as perfectly as I can , in re-
fpetff that nothing which is imperfect ought to be
prefented to your Honor. If you accept and.per¬
il fe it, it is the utmoft ambition of
lour Honors humble Servant,
Fra: Kirkman.
A The
The A&ors
'
Or in s a s, King of (B
Flaminius, The (Roman Ambaflador.
A r s i n 0"e , Second Wife to King
Laodice, Queen of Armenia.
N i c o m e d e , Eldeft Son of King Brufias, by
a former venture.
Attalus, Son of Brufia and Jrfinoe.
Araspes, Captain of the Guards to
Cleone, Confident to .
The Scene at Nicomedia. 1
'
t!
f f ff f If f f f f f f f f f f f f f f f f f f f f
T a
> •-■/-! * N l-
NICHOMEDE
A
T ragi-Comedy.
ACT I. SCENE I.
"Htcbomedeand
Laod.^X^Y Joys Sir, muft exceed, to finde that you,
| To whom fo many glorious Wreaths are due,
M My Chains,to all thefe Laurels can prefer,
And be my Captive, though a Conqueror,
That all thofe Aflions which the World difmay,
To fuch low Merits (hould their Homage pay j
And yet amidft this height of Joy, I finde
A fecret Paffion which affii&s my minde.
With fear 1 fee you fear that fprings from Love,
Doubtful this Court to you may fatal prove.
You have a fubtile Step-Dame, Sir, whofe wit
Has made your Father to her Charms fubmit,
And (he does manage him with fo much Skill,
He's bat the Property to a& her Will 5
What She en joy ns more force than Law does bear,
And then what Safety can you hope for here ?
Befides her Hate, which was enough before,
Is from our mutual Love, encreas'd to more,
And now her Son, your Brother's return'd too,
NicAe, I know it, Madam, and that he courts you.
B The
(f)
The Romans did him home from Hodage fend,
Not out ofkindnefs, but a weightier end.
I too well find what 'twas did him recall,
He was FUminiz s price for Hannibal.
That mighty Man was for his Ranfome paid,
And by the King had been to Rome betraid,
Had not his Courage taught him how to free
Himfelf by Poyfon,from that Slavery,
Which gazing Romans exercife on thofe
Who were their Terror, whilft they flood their Foes*
'Twas not till after my lad happy Fight
Which Cappadocia's Kingdom did unite
To our Bithinia, I this News did hear
Which made me weep for him, and for you fear :
That Fear begat an Anger would break forth 5
So to Thsagenes, whofe fteddy worth
I knew, I of the Army gave command,
And hither flew, thefe Troubles to withftand.
Hoping my prefencc would my Queen oblige,
For ft ill Flaminius does the King befiege,
And if that Hannibal his Errand were.
He, being dead, why flaies he longer here ?
Unlefs it be, which I believe too true,
To aid my Brothe rs weak pretence to you.
Laodice. I doubt not, but this Roman vertue may
Strive to oblige the Queen in her own way ,
That bloody Sacrifice (he paid to him,
Mud have engag'dhim to the utmofl crime :
But,be it fo3vet why (houldyou complain,
Why fhould you fear the word he can obtain $
My love ore you a weak Afcendant hath,
If'tis your Prefence, mud fecure its faith .
That Spirit mud be mean, which does prefer
Poor Attaluti to Afia*s Conquerour.
Atftufs of whom the mod that can be fe'd.
Is that he was a ^6>^j»Hodagebred,
And at full height of Courage will appear
To&ake at Eagles, and an Adiie fear*
(3)
Niche. Death, Madam, Death, (hall here an Empire gaina
E're I fuch jealous thoughts do entertain :
I Force from them, not weaknefs fear in you,
For what if Rome appear againft us too-*—
Laodice. Sir, I'm a Queen, and bear that Noble Soul,
Which Rome,nor your KingsThund'rings can't controuh
Though he my Guardian be, he cannot have
More power ore me than what my Father gave.
Whofe Will having defign'dme yours, there's none
Can choofe elfewhere for me, but I alone.
By my own choice, and by my Fathers care
I'm deftin'd Spoufe to the Bithinian Heir.
And this great Heart of mine will never bend
To let a Subje&s Right o're it pretend.
Banifh your doubts.
Nicho. Ah Madam, let me fear
Whilft I behold you thus expofed are
Unto a Fury, who both hath the Will,
And Power to a ft, all (he conceives of ill.
Who, but to place a Crown on her Sons Brow,
Would Juftice, Law, and Nature overthrow,
And greedily the facredft Rights invade:
She may force you, who Hannibalbetraid.
Nor can there Faith from thofe expe&ed be '
Who break the Laws of Hofpitality,
Laod. As little Natures Laws will you proteft
From thofe who to fuch Rights (how no refpeft.
Your being here advances her Defign,
And does expofe both your own Life and mine.
Coming without leave, fomefufpition wears,
And (he will buzz it in your Fathers Ears.
Who by her Charms too foon will be enclin'd
To facrifice you to his jealous Mind.
Then 1, who (food fo firm before, become
A VicHm to the Mother and the Son.
Nick. 1T was fear of you that made me take this courfe
LaodiceWhtlft you were in the Camp I fear'd no force •
This, this Sir, you for my fupport (hould do,
B 2 Order
(4)
Order things Co that they may ftill fear you.
Back to your Army, then proted me there,
They arefecu re to aQc whilft you are here.
But Armies Rules to Politicians teach.
And you may boldly do it out of reach.
Valour, though high, to numbers ftill muft yield,
Yo u're but one here, they none, when you're ith* Field.
And though the noife of Vi&ory found high,
*Tis feldom Fame hasquell'd an Enemy.
Sir, were you both the Worlds Delight and Dread,
Entring the Court, you tamely yield your Head.
Once more I fay return, by that Renown
You there have gain'dyyou here will beft be known:
Return, and with your own, fecure my Fate,
You banifh mine, when ycu theire Fears create.
Nkho. Ah! To theCampperfwademenottogo,
There the Queens Hate, her Murderers do fow
Secret and thick : Two I have brought along,
By their Confe/fionato make known my Wrongs
And difabufe the King, who though he be
Husband to her, is Father ftill to me.
And though fhe Nature fhould to (Hence charm.
Yet three great Kingdoms added by this Arm
Unto his Crown, will loudly let him know.
That he does fomething to my Valour ow*
Or if that by the Rigor of my Fate,
I muft become the Viftim ofher Hate.
If both the Camp and Court my Life purfue.
Will you deny me then to dye by you }
Laodice My paft Advice I trembling.now recall
If we muft die, let us together fall.
Courage, brave Prince, they may perhaps enfna re
i^hemfelve^in thofe Traps they for us prepare.
The People love you5and abho'r their Arts,
* And he Reigns fafeft who does Reign ore Hearts.
But here's your Brother—*
Nicho. Since he does not know
Who I am,keep me undifcoverd,now»
SC
CD
SCENE II.
Laodice^ Nichomede and Attains.
Attains. Muft then the Charms dwell in thofe Eyes appear
Gnely to me5 of all the World, fevere ?,<
Shall I ne'rc gain one of thofe bleft regards.
With which you, Madam, ufe to conquerHearts >
Laod. To conquer yours, if thefe Sir, don't fuffice,
When I defign't, lie (peak it by my Eyes.
Attn. Of what s all yours, you can no Conqueft make.
Laod. Then a more pleafing Mein, I need not take.
Atta. But yet to keep that heart, I muft implore.
Laod. I rather had fuch ill got Goods reftore.
Atta. It's Value is too poor, your Soul to touch.
Laod. To juggle Sir, I value you too much,
Our diftance of Degree admits it not.
Then for the heart you tell me I have got,
Where (hould't be kept ?
Atta. Ah Madam, in your Breft,
Laod. That Place is by another, Sir, pofleft«
And you foofrhath this great Trutffbin told,
That your Addrefs as fenfelefs is as bold.
Atta. Happy the Man, whom Fortune fo does grace,
1 o give admiffion to fo bleft a Place.
But I (hould think him happier far who might,
Fairly difpute, and gain from him this Right.
Nicho. E're that be done Rivers with Blood muft fwell,
This Conquerour Sir, preferves his ConquelVwell.
Go ask his Foes,'mongft them 'twill bcft be known.
What 'tis to gain that Fort he once has won.
Atta. But there is one who will alTault it fo.
That he muft yield it where he will or no.
Laod. You may miftake,
Atta. IftheKingbetheMan.
Laod. He's juft and wife, and wills bur what he can.
Atta. And what cannot hisSoveraign Greatnefs do?
Laod. Talk not fo high, he knows what is my Due.
B Though •
(6)
Though King, he a&s as to a Qgeen with me,
That's not by Force, but by Civility.
Atta. There's much included in the civil prayer
Of Kings, unto whofe power we fubjeft are.
But if a Kings requeft can take no place,
Yet Rome with hers will my Addreffes grace.
Ntco. Rome Sir ?
Atta. Yes Rome, do you her kindnefs fear ?
Nico. No Sir, but leit fotne Roman over- hear,
For if Rome knew th* Addreffes by you made,
Youl'd gain her Anger, whilft you hope her Aid.
Scorning to fee her Nurfling own a Flame
Injurousto the luftre of her Name.
That Title which does fo much glory wear,
Of Roman Citizen, (heel'd from you tear.
For ihe too mighty thinks it to beftow
On that poor foul, can to a Queens love bow.
Have you forgot that neither King, nor Queen,
Rome equal to a Burgefs do efteem.
If (he have form'd in you that generous Mind,
Let her th' impreflions of her Maxims find.
Refume a pride then worthy her and you,
And ftudying fomething to your glory due,
Purfue this Ignominious Flame no more,
But ceafing the Armenian Queen to adore.
Seek out a Love more worthy your high place,
That's offome Tribunes or a Pretors Race.
For fuch a high-born Match Rome thinksyou fit,
And left your Royal Birth exclude you it.
By her Adoption you have put on.
Authority for fuch Ambition.
Break loofe then. Sir, from this reproachful Chain,
And leaving Queens to Kings they fodifdain.
For things more vaft and high,your thoughts refcrve.
And fo your greatnefs, and Romes pride preferve.
Attains. If this man, Madam, do to you belong,
Forbid his boldnefs, or reftrain his Tongue,
That 1 his uttnoft infolence might hear.
(7
I yet have forc'd my Anger to forbear,
But if he (hall continue in this ftrain,
To fmother't longer, I (hall ftrive in vain.
Njcbv. No matter, Sir, to whom I do belong
Can R-eafon loofe it's value on my tongue?
Set Love apart, and l'le be judg'd by you,
What Glories tp this Roman Name are due,
The King and Queen, fo high the Title priz'd,
They'J not be pleas'd to fee it now defpis'd.
Their value of the mighty thing appears
In giving up to it your Infant years.
From four years old't has rob'd them of your fight,
Can you think now, they will that Glory (light.
Or fuffer for the Marriage of a Queen,
You forfeit Honours they fo much cfteem?
No rather jealous of fo rare a Treafure.
Attaint.Madam,once more I ask,Is it your pleasure,
That infolent man of me, this fcorn fhould make?
Or is't from you he does his freedom take ?
Laod. Since talking to you as a Romance
Offends you Sir, give me the liberty,
To treat you in away which you may own
With no lefs Honour, that's a Monarchs Sons
But Sir, in this degree you muft allow
You to a Prince your Elder, ought to bow.
That though fo near ally'd in blood you be,
It takes not from his difference of degree,
But to his Birth there ought refpeft be paid,
Yet you, he abfent, does his Rights invade.
Atta. If that Right be the Honour to be yours,
One word from you, that Right for me procures.
And if my Birth does leffen my degree,
'Tis by you, Natures fault repair'd may be 5
But if as a Kings Son, I fo much o we.
Permit that I (peak like a Roman now.
And know there's none born fo, but aredengn'd
To command Monarchs, and be unconfin'd
Knew
Know that my Love's the Projefr of a Soul,
Contemns Subje&ion, and difdains Controul y
Know that
Laod.I know that in my Crown you finde
More Charms, than in my Perfon, or my Minde y
But fuch as 1 am, both my Crown and Me,
Are vowd that Brothers, who your King muft be j
And were He here, his Prefence might give end
To all this mighty Paffion you pretend.
Attains.Might I but fee him,he fhould know from me
Nicho. Beware, fuch Wifhes, Sir, may dangerous be j
For if he hear them , you may chance to prove
The Vengeance due on thofe attempts his Love.
Atta. Sir, you fhallpay me that Refpeft is due.
, Nicho• I know not who omits it of us two.
./4/M.Whilft thou knowft me,dar'ft thou thus boldly prate?
Nicho. By knowing you Prince, I can fet my Rate,
But you being ignorant of my Degree,
Cannot tell what you ought to pay to me.
Atta. Ah Madam, fuffer my juft Anger may
Laod.Yes, yes 5 but now your Mother cdmes this way.
SCENE III.
Nichontede, Arjinoe, Laodice, , and
Nicho. Pray Madam, let the Prince your Son here, know
What's the Refpect he unto me does owe 5
For want of it he is outragious grown,
A fault which furely does but ill become
Such rare bred Mindes.
Arfittoe. Sir, do I then fee you !
Nicho. Yes, and you (hall fee too.*
Arfinoe. Oh that's a Traitor 1
Nicho. He talks fomething true.
You beft know if it ought to trouble you.
Arfinoe. This fwift Return I cannot underftand
Where is your Army ?
Nicho, Under good command.
Of
(9)
Of my return you foon the Caufe {ball hear,
I left a Mailer and a Mitrrefs here.
One Re me and youhave taken frommy Cares,
T'other l'le fave both from your Hands and theirs.
Arfin. fs this the Caufe that does you hither bring?
Niche. Yes, and I hope you'l lerve me with the King.
Arfin. Yes Sir, l'le ferve you, juft as you hope fo:
Niche. Of your good will I the affurance know.
Arfin. l'le go and to the King this Bufinefs move.
Niche. And l'le go think how I may grateful prove.
Arfm. Do fo, you may depend upon my Care,
Niche. Whilftlknow yours,you guefswhat my thoughts are
Atta. Madam, is this Prince ?
Niche. Yes Sir,
Who comes to fee if Rome can you prefer,
Tohim.
Attains. Excufemeifldid not know.
Niche. Your felfPrince, a deferving Rival fhow.
And if you dare defign t'affault me here,
Still in your looks a noble boldnefs wear.
But as 1 to her Aid, am (ingly come,
Threaten me not with the Kings Power, or Rome $
As I defend, do you attempt alone,
l'le fet by all pretences to the Crown.
Try it thus Prince, and we fhall foon fee then
If Rome, or Hannibal breeds braver Men.
SCENE IV.
Arfinee, Attains, and Cleoni.
Arfin. GojthatExcufeofthinetohimwas bafe,
When thou beheldft him brave me. to my Face.
Atta. Madam, what could I do in this Surprize 2
This quick return defrroys your Enterprize.
Arfin. No Attaim, it gives it Life, and Heart,
Go thou and finde Flaminius on my part.
Let hinj in private here conduced be,
And of thy Fortunes leave the Cure to me.
G But
(1°)
Att/t. But Madam, if—*""
Arfin. Go, no more if, nor and,
Whendone,thou thefe Intreagues fhaltandetftand.
SCENE V.
Arfinoe^ Cleone.
Cleo. Madam, do you hide from him his own Concern'?
Arftn. Yes, and hare Reafons thou doft not difcern.
I fear his heart would my Defignes oppofe,
I fear that vertue which to Rome he owes*
Has taught him, there's no Glory lb fublime.
Can recompence the hazard of a Crime.
deon. Thofe fhould guefs Rome lefs fcrupulous, who knew
How Hannibal (he did to death purfue.
Arftnoe. Be not in charging Rome with Guilt deceiv'd,
9Twas I, and but one Roman^ who contriv'd
The whole Intreague of that great Heroes Fall $
Rome ftill had granted Life to Hannibal^
And would not for a more inviting Caufe,
Have made a Breach of hofpitable Lawes.
For though whilft (he did his great Conduft know,
Prudence forbad his Sojourn with a Foe,
And therefore to make good his Peace with them,
Antioehus was fore cl to bannifh him.
Yet freed both from ##«wEnvy, or her Fear,
We being Allies^ he might have ftill liv'd here*
Had not Revenge prompted FUminmf too,
Things which the Senate would haveblu(h'd to do.
Cleone. What defperate Caufe could raife his Hate fo high,
That to allay it, Hannibal muft dye ?
Arfin. A Fathers Lofs of Honor, and of L;fe,
Haft thou not heard, how in that fatal ft rife
Twixt Rome, and Carthage, in one bloody Scene,
A&ed nigh to the Lake of Thrafimene,
Fl.iminius Father, then Romes General,
Fell by the mighty Hand of Hannibal?
f he Son fince burning to revenge that ftiame,
A clofe Confpirator with me became.
(II)
And for to have the objetft of his Hate
Deliver'd up, procur'd the Roman State
To fend my Attains from Hoftage home,
And farther whifper'd Jealoufies in
Of Nichomede's Conquefts here, which might
( Should he to them the Arm Realm unite
By Marriage with Laodice') one day
To Romes increafing Greatnefs put a ftay?
On which the Senate, who now jealous grew
Of fuch an Empire, and fuch Valour too,
Did him as their Ambafladour propound,
To break the Marriage, and the Empire bound;
And this is what Rome undertook to do.
Cleone. And this makes Attaint, his Miftrefs woo,
But yet, why did not Rome her felf concern,
E're his Return had made herLoye too firm?
Arjln. No, for whilft he a conquering Army led,
•T had been too much to affront him at their Head.
Here we dare do't, and 'twas my Plot at length,
By cunning flights to draw him from his Strength?
To M/throbates, I did teach the way,
Who feeming falfe to me, did him betray,
Whifp'ringathoufand pannique Fears, that he
Had been to murder him, fuborn'd by me,
That fiery Spirit by degrees he won,
And gently leads him to deftru&ion.
I know hel to the King for Juftice call,
But from that Juftice he fliall finde his Fall.
His Accufationsas my Engines move,
Will fortifie me in his Fathers Love.
At his firft fight I did appear difmaid,
And by my change of colour feem'd afraid j
But he miftakes much that Surprize of mine,
Since his Return, was wholly my Defign.
cleone. But what e're Rome or Attains pretend,
That Queen will never to his wilhes bend.
Arjin. The Love he fljowes to her I have defign'd
Only the King, the Court, and Rome to blinde,
C 2
( IT )
Notthat I would the Armenian Crown procure.
But our Bjthinian, for my Son fecure.
That done, I care not where the Queen efpoufe,
But freely leave her whom (he pleafe to chufeo
This Paffion of my Sons if only preft.
To raife frefliTempefts in the Princes Breft$
Who when he fees the King fet on by Rome0
An Advocate for Attains become.
Will grow outragiaus, and induced be.
To brave that Father is as fierce as he.
Whofe Hear by cunning ways to Flames Fie blow,
And work thisdaring Lovers overthrow,
Before he blinded by his Love, (hall fee.
The leaft intreague ofthis great Miftery.
By this thou fee'ft all that I do pretend,
But fure FUminius does me now attend.
He go the Secrets of thy Queen preferve,
Cleomt My Faith long try'd does not a Doubt deferve.
ACT II. SCENE I.
Prufias, and .
TTTlthout my Orders, durft he then come here >
Argfp W Pardon, GreatSir, you wrong him if you fear 5,
Prince Nitb0vtede's Thoughts are all fo juft,
Twere injury to vertue to miftruft.
Tis true you any other might fufpeft,
Thisquick return doesfeem to wantrefpett.
And might give place to doubtful Thoughts, to know,
The Springs from whence does fuch impatience flow.
!>«/?. I fee 'em well, this A<S appears to me,
A pure Attempt on my Authority}
His happy Victories have rais'd his Soul
So high, that now he does abhor Controul,
Scornesto depend, and thinks he has a Right
To Rule, fince he haspurehas'd it by Fight.
Heroes
(»3)"
Heroes, like him, believe when they obey,
Their Glories and their Greatnefs they betray.
And call a fhadowo're their mighty Deeds:
Arafp. Sir, heat of blood in youth that Humor feeds.
Their towring Spirits are by fuccefs blown high,
And whilft Camps do their Fortunes deifie.
They of Command gain fuch a habitude,
Obedience after feems fevere and rude.
Trufiai. Speak all Arafpes,fay a Subje&s name
Sullies their A&s, and does eclipfe their Fame.
That though Fate does defign 'em Crowns, they grow
Impatient, if her motions be too flow.
That they conceive that Father does them wrong,
Who makes them tarry for their Right too long.
That hence 'tis firft they Fa&ions feek to raife,
Gaining our Subjefts hearts, by fecret ways.
And then ifftill to us a life they fpare,
Granting us a few days perplext with Care,
Yet infolent and difobedient grown,
They leave us but the lhadow ofa Crown.
Atta. This might of others Sir, be the Intent,
And what would ask fir Counfel to prevent 5
But here Advice like that would ill become,
You're a kind Father, he a vertuous Son.
Truft Were I not kind, how faulty muft he prove
His innocence depends upon my Love.
Tis only that makes his offence be none,
Or onely that will rob me of my Crown.
For my experience tells me youth in vain,
Oppofes Vertue to defire ot Reign.
Ambition, is a thriving Plant, and findes
Its proper Soil in fnch heroick Minds.
How oft is't writ in Charafters of blood,
Man's Itch of Rule,could never be withftood,
For if that Paffion once our hearts furprize,
Religion's dumb, and Nature has no Eyes.
Arafp. Sir, thefe reflexions cannot fure be due
To that high Service, he has done for you.
Pm-
(■4)
Pru. jirafpes,this I from his Service owne,
Increafing of my Power heleaves me none.
He's not my Subjeft now, unlefs he pleafe,
Who makes me Reign,may Reign himfelf with eafe:
In fhortj his Merit sgrown fo bright, and high,
Its dazling Luftre does offend my Eye.
For naturally we abhor the fight
Of thofe, whofe benefits we can't requite.
All his great Ads fpeak here at his approach,
And fo his prefence is a clofe reproach s,
Which tells me,thrice he has thefe Temples crown'd,
That all I can give him's a Spot of Ground
To thefe Dominions, which his conquering Hand,
And profperous Valour adds to my Command.
Th us I mud: blufh,though I prorogue my Fear,
And fhame'sa Burden Monarchs cannot bear.
Shame, in whofe boyling Jealoufies I finde
Thofe peftilent difturbers of my mind,
Which tells me, that he may do what he will,
And Crowns are Soveraign Prompters to do ill.
drafp. In any other whom you might miftruft,
I know what Policies were fafe and juft 5
That Sub)eft rnuft be falfe, who's grown too high,
Although he never thought a Treachery.
Pow^r Sir, in Subjeds is a Crime of State,
Which prudent Princes, e're it be too late,
By wifely clipping of their Wings, prevent
From meriting feverer Punifhment.
But for the Prinop,his thoughts from crimes are free
And all fo juft
VrHfi/it. Wilt thou his Surety be >
Thinkft thou but he his utmoftpowr will prove,
To revenge Hannibal,or fave his Love ?
Can he behold, and yet no force pretend,
A Rival Brother, and a Slaughter'd Friend ?
No, no, he does his Vengeance now purfue,
He has a fair Pretext, and Power too.
(i5)
He,like a Sun,amidftmy States do fhine,
Whom Soldiers, and People think divine 5
Sure of the firft, he now the laft will gain,
And fix his Powers on my fmall remain.
Which yet is not fo low, and abjeft grown,
But he Ihall finde it hard to make it none.
Yet I'le my paffion with fuch cunning wear,
It jealous of his Honour Ihall appear,
And whilft I make his Glory my pretence,
He by obliging kindnefs, drive him hence.
But if he thus refufes to obey,
I fhall be forc'd to try another way?
For what e're he has done, or I can fear,
I muft preferve my State.
Arafp. Sir, he comes here-
4
SCENE II.
Truftas) Nichemede and
TrM. Prince, what affairs could bring you from the Field t
Nicho. My duty did to juft Ambition yield.
Firft, for the Honor Sir, to tell you here,
That you have yetanother Crown to wear,
Then to receive your kind Embrace, and be
A Witnefs, you approve my Victory.
Sir Cappadocias yours, ArfacesThrone3
Your Orders by my Arm, has made your own.
And I Sir, thought it was but juft to bring
Thanks due unto my Father, and my King,
For the great Glory you vouchfaf'd this Hand,
To make it Minifterof your Command.
Trufi. You might have ftaid Sir. till I fent for you,
r And by your Letters, paid me the thanks due 5
Nor ought you to have fully'd with a Crime,
That which your Victory adds to your Efteem.
To leave a Camp in any's Cappital,
But above all Sir, in a General,
Be
( i<$)
Be fure, who e re but you, had thus come home,
Had changd his Lawrel, for a Cyprefs Crown.
Nicho. Sir, I confefs my eafie thoughts gave way,
Tothofedefireswhich my heart dofway.
I've crr'd, but Love to you caus'd the Offence,
That Paffion with my duty diddifpence.
My guilt alone from my affe&ion grew,
Elfe I had faultlefs been, but not feen you,
A Happinefs to me Sir, to fublime,
That if for it, I'm fallen into a crime.
I hope 'twill finde not ftriff feverity,
If Love judge in you what it did in me.
Pruji.With a Sons Name a flight excufe will ferve,
Him in his Fathers kindnefs to preferve.
I look upon you, as my fole Support,
Receive this day the Honor of my Court.
The Roman Legate'who does audience crave,
Shall fee what confidence in you I have :
You Prince, this great Ambafiadour fhall hear,
And anfwer him, for you're indeed King here,
I'm but the fhadow 5 my age craves no more
But Titles,for the Toiles I took before.
Which I e're long muff likewife yield to Fate,
But yours is now the Intereft of State.
Upon your felf, then a true value fet,
But midfl your Greatnefs don'tyour Faultforget.
Which having made a Breach on Soveraign Power,
I to repair't, confine you to an hour.
After to morrow dare not to flay here,
Your Love by your obedience will appear 5
And by example you will beft maintain
Your power inviolate, when you fhall Reign.
Go then, and by it to the people fhow,
Our greateft Subjefts beft know what they owe.
Nicho.Sir, I'le obey,though the Command be hard,
Yet give me leave! to ask this fmall Reward 5
Since my late A rmes haveopen'd a fair way,
That now with fafety we may her convay,'
(17)
And all Armenia for their Queen does wait,
Pleafe to let me conduft her to that State.
Prujl. The Conduit of a Queen fo great and fair,
Becomes your Due, as you are s Heir 5
But e're that 1 can fend her to her Right,
You know tome Ceremony's requifite.
Whilft for her Voyage I things fit prepare,
Go to the Frontiers, and attend her there.
Niche. She without greater Equipage would go.
Pruji. That Wrong to Majefty I'le never do *
But fee, th' AmbafTadour of Rome comes here,
Anfwer him firft,and then we'l think of her.
SCENE III.
Prufiat, Nichomedei Flam and
Guard, At
Flaminius.Sir, e're I take my leave, Rome does command,
That I on her behalf make one Demand.
For Twenty yea rs you to that Senate owe
For a Sons Tutorage, and you may know
By Vertues which his Education grace,
He in their Cares had not the meaneft place.
Bove all, he is inftrufted how to Reign,
Rome fais't and asks this Credence to obtain
From you , That as a Witnefsyouefteem
Her Cares, you order now a Crown for him,
And you'l offend her Sir, if you appear
To flight, what fhe thought worthy of her Care.
Let me then to the Senate Tydings bring,
Where 'tis that you defign he fhall be King.
Truftao. The Senates Cares for him fhall never fin^
Me either,Sir, ungrateful, or unkind.
That he deferves a Crown I muft believe,
Since Rome and you do that affurance give 5
But Sir, you fee a Prince his elder there,
By.whofe vi&orious Arms three Crowns I wear,
Who no w a Lawrel at my Feet does throw,
Some Glory to fuch worthy Ails I owe.
D To
(i*
To fpeak for me, let him the Grace obtain.
Nicho. 'Tis none but you Sir, can make Att'lus Reigm
Trufi. Your Int'reft is moft touch'd in this affair.
'Nicho. But to preferve yours, it fliall be my Care.
What's Romes Concern ? whence does the Senate take
Power, whilft you Live, and Reign o'reyour Eftate ?
Live Sir, and Reign, whilft Nature grants you breath,
And leave me then to deal with , or Death.
Pruft. We ought to have Refpeft for fuch good Friends.
Micho. Who (hares in Life your Stares, your Death intends.
And of fuch Friends in Policy——
Prujias. Forbear!
Tie nothing againft that Re-publique hear,
To fuch Allies you (hould more Reverence pay.
Nicho. Muft I fee Monarchs ftoop to what they fay >,
Since Rome does for this Prince fo much pretend",
Back Sir, to her, the mighty Prefent fend 5
If he to Govern does fo well deferve,
He is a Treafure which they (hould preferve,
That he in time might that Republiqpe grace,
Either ith' Confuls, or Di&ators place.
Flam. Sir, this Difcourfe fo much in fcorn of ,
Not from your Son, but Hannibal does come 5
That proud Abhorrer of the Roman Name,
Has fill'd his heart with Hatred and Difdain.
Nicho. No, but he fix'd it as a Maxime there.
To value Rome, and not her Greatnefs fear.
He was my Mafter, which with pride I boaft,
And when FUminitis does revile his Ghoft,
He muft know, he may do me Reafon yet
For that dear Life, nor ought hetoforget,
That by his Fathers Elood, that mighty Mm
His T riumphs o're the Roman State began.
Flam. T his is Reproach !
Nicho. Do net the Dead revile !
Pruft. Not you by Coatefts me with Rome ernbroyl.
Speak plainly totheKing as 'tis propos'd.
Nicho. Well Sir, fince then it cannot be oppof'd,
(19)
Attaint muft Reign, Rome lias refolv'd it fo,
And fince what fee wills, muft for Mandates go 3
II this dull World will (loop to fuch a Sway,
"Tis fit when fee commands, Rings feould obey: .
But Sir, thoxspfc Attains a mind poffeft,
Brave as the Greateft, vertuous asthe beft 3
Though he with all the Merit were endow'd,
Might grace a Throne, and make a Monarch proud*
Yet 'tis too much for you, Sir, to afford
Credit to it upon a Romans word :
If he fuch Vertue, and fuch Valour own,
They by their great Effe&s will beft be known 5
Give him your Army, let him try to do
That for himfelf, which I have done for you.
I'le lend him, Sir, if he think fit, my hand,
And gladly will march under his Command:
Let famous scipio my Example be,
To juftifie fuch a Lieutenancy 3
Who when Antiochns was by Rome dethron'd,
The Orders of his younger Brother own'd.
The reft of Aft a will to him afford,
Sufficient Employment for his Sword ,
Where he may furfeit his ambitious Breft.
Flam. Rome into her proteftion takes the reft 5
Nor muft you, Sir, your Conqueftsthere extend,
Unlefs you will her mighty Powers offend.
Njcbo. I know not what to this the King would fay,
But I my felf perhaps may Reign one day,
Then the Effefts we of thefe Threats feall fee,
Mean time, go, and thofe places fortifie:
Prepare my now refolved Defignes to oppofe,
And in good time your Roman Aids difpofe 3
And iiFlaminins feall their Leading take,
I'le finde for him a Thrafsmenes Lake.
Prnfi. Prince, you my Kindnefs by thefe Taunts abufe,
You feould a Legate with more Honor ufe 5
The Soveraign Power which does to me belong"*""
tUffbo, Command me either fpeak, or hold my Tongue
D 3
(io )
I cannot fay lefs for a King to thofe,
Who whilft he Reigns, would Laweson him impofe.
Prufi. You offend me Sir,
Niche. Jufl: as Rome Honors you.
Prufi. Dare you with boldnefs your Offence purfue?
Niche. Why? Ihouldl, Sir, behold your States confin'd,
And Stops to my victorious Courfe defign'd.
Should I ftandftill, and hear Rom threaten you,
And be fo tame as not to threaten too ?
But kindly thank the imperious Tongues, that dare
Reftrain my Glories, and my Conquefts bare.
Prttfi. Excufe thofe Heats from youthful Blood do rife,
Keafon and Time will render him more wife.
Niche. Reafon and Time opened my Eyes before,
And Age, Sir, will but open them the more,
If I had liv'd as Attains has done,
And but imaginary Vertue known,
For what's without effe&s I teufl term fo,
And that which does from admiration grow
Of mighty men, and Deeds does lamely teach,
Tis Imitation muft Perfection reach j
If then my thoughts like his,had ne re foar'd higher,
Than only Rentes great Heroes to admire,
They dill would leave me the Sithinian Crown,
As from all timesdue to the elder Son.
Nor would have fo much pred my Brothers Reign,
Had not I taught your Armies how to gain : •
Butfince by three Crowns joy n'd to yours by me
Too great a Power they do united fee.
Tmult be divided, and a Blot fo gay,
Makes this Prince too well bred Sir, to obey
To weaken me that hp their Turn may ferve
He more than Alexander does deferve. '
And I mud quit to make his Title good
My Birthright or the purchafe of my Blood
Thank Heaven my Fortune s pad, and thofe to come '
Have cad a Cloud of Doubrs, and Fears on Rome.
(II)
You, ifyou pleafe, thofe Mtftsaway may drive,
But never think I ray confent will give.
The Mafter to whole Rules I all things owe,
Did not, Sir, teach me how to ftoop lb low.
Flam. By what you fay Prince, it may well be gueft,
You han't for Glory fought, but Intereft.
And all thofe great Exploits which you have done,
Make but the Father Tennant to the Son.
Tiie King's at beft but Steward of yourRight,
You for your felf, and not for him did fight *
If thofe Dominions gain'd him by your Hand,
Are not to bedifpos'd at his Command^
Thofe Romans Sir, whom you fo much defpife,
When they fight, fight for Glory, not for Prize.
Scipio, whofe Courage you extoll'd fohigb,
Having overcome Rome*ftubbom'ft Enemy
Claim'd not for all the Kingdoms he had won,
More than the mighty Nameof^/r/ca»;
But Glory fo fublime's not elfewhere knowD,
And fuch pure Vertue Rome can boaft alone.
But Sir,as to thofe fond conceits of State,
Your Power, might Jealoufies in Rome create.
Confult fome graver heads, you'l quickly learn,
Your Greatnefsistoo mean for her concern.
Refpeft unto the King does now reftrain
My faying more, but think of this again.
Let lefs fmoak from your Martial Fires arife,
And you perhaps may fee with clearer Eyes.
N,cho. When time this difference (hall 'twixt Us decide,
Perhaps you may not what I faid deride.
Flam, Mean time, if you in fightingfind fuch charms,
Prefs forward Sir, the Giory of your Arms.
For unto them no Progrefs Rome denyes,
But Sir, file always fuccours her Allyes $
If you don't know it, I give you this Advice,
Left at firft fight her Eagles fhould furprize }
But to the point— all your ambitious Brefir
Claimes asyour Right, fiiall be by you poffeft.
Enjoy
(«)
N
Enjoy Bjthittia,as it is your due.
Pout/if, Oalatia, Cappadocia too.
That Birthright, nor that purchafe of your Blood,
Shall not make Attain/his Title good.
But fince you think they all to you belong,
Rome has not a Defign to do you wrong.
A Crown is none of yours that Prince (hall wear:
The Armenia* Queen is ftiil unmarried Sir, [to
Th' Occafion does the thing it felf propofe,
You are her Guardian, and of her difpofe.
Njcho. To make him King is this then the Defign,
Without infringing any Rights of mine ?
The Piece with very curious Art is wrought,
And long Intreagues have worthy Iffues brought
But fince no Right to me you here afford,
Asunconcern'd Tie anfwer but a word :
Only take Care that Princefs treated be
Like to a Queen, prefs not on that degree,
Nor do in her the Rights of Crowns invade,
Or if you do, Me perifh in her Aid;
Know that no place can Laws to Soveraigns give,
But they're at freedom wherefoe're they live;
Andinthefe Courts (he's at her own difpofe.
Prufi. Is this all you to that Requeft oppofe ?
Nicho. Yes Sir, that's all, fave only that the Queen
Knowing what I can do, too (harp has been.
Prufi. 'Gainfther,Sir, in my Courts, what dare you do
Uicho,Sir,I could fpeak, but can befilent too.
Only once more advife you, if you pleafe
To Treat Laodice like what fhe is:
Tis I that beg it.
SCENE IV.
Pruf/as, i Uminius, Araf, Attendant/.
Flam. What! Oppos'd too here ?
Prufi. This from a Lover is no Wonder, Sir:
(23)
That fiery fpirit heightned by Succefs,
Hopes to her heart to hinder our Accefs.
We'l therefore feek that Paffion to remove,
Kings Marriages are feldom made for love,
And I have Plots ofGreatnefs, and of Fame,
Will quench Loves Fires, and blow out all it*s Flame.
Flam. But loving him, fhe'l be capricious too.
Prufi.If it Ihould prove lo, I know what to do.
But (he's in fine a Queen, and that Degree,
Seems to require fome Formality 5
And though my Power o're her be abfolute,
And might conftrain, yet Prayers will better dot :
You firft as an Ambarfadour (hall move
The Match, I'le fecond Rome and if this prove
But to our Wilh, 'tis better than Commands,
If not, (he will be ftill Sir, in our Haffds.
Come then let's go, and as this does fucceed,
Take our Advantage further to proceed.
ACT III. SCENE I.
" -.J t t .y ii < ... 'J ... > i Si
Vrufias5 VUm/mui^ and Laodiee.
Ueen, fincethat Title carryesfo much Chaims3
Visit's Lofs, methinks fhould give you (ome Alarms;
Power if abuf'd is feldom long preferv'd 5
Laod, This great Advice (hall by me be obferv'dj,
And if [ ever Reign3 Sir3 you (hall fee
The Prafrifeof fuch Noble Policy.
Prufi, Madam, to Reign you take but an ill way.
Laod. Youmaydireft me if lgoaftray.
Prufi. You (light Rome^ and too fmall refpe&s you give
Unto a King3 under whofe Command you live.
Laod. If you your Regal Power would better know,
You'lfindl pay to both, Sir3 what I owe $
If I as Queen receive Ambaffies here,
I muft as Soveraign before you appear. v
A (fume
(H)
AfTume a Power which I cannot own,
And in your ownEftates affront your Throne.
I them refufe out of Refpeft to you,
Honours, that in Armenia were my due.
There I might RomesAmbaffadour receive,
And with fit fplendor him an Audience give,
Their Anfwer, as a Queen to his Defires,
Or as the merit of the Caufe requires.
Here Sir, I can't the Miftery underftand,
Out of Armenia having no Command 5
For all that Heaven does me elfe where allow,
Is that I live and no fubje&ion know 5
Reign o'remy felf,and have in all aboades
No Soveraign, but my Reafon, and the Gods.
Prufi. Thole Gods your Soveraigns by your Father gave
To me the Power which over you they have,
And you perhaps my one day underftand,
Wnat's a Kings Reafon where he does command.
For proof of it, let's to Armenia go,
l ie bring you thither, but attended fo,
That fince you ftaud fo much upon your State,
You muft prepare to fee it defolate.
Wars utmoft fury through your Land fhall Reign,
Dead todies fhall make Mountains of a Plain.
And Rivers flow with Blood that I will fpill.
Laod. Lofing my States, I'le keep my Glory ftilj^
All thofe vaft mifchiefs wherewith you me brave,
Shan't make me fubje<ft,thongh they make me Slave:
My Life is yours, but not my Dignity.
Trttfi. This mighty Courage will reduced be,
When all thefe Miferies to a Head are grown,
And Attains fits on your Fathers Throne 5
Then, then perhaps,that Heart may froop in vain,
To ask his Hand to feat you there again.
^ Ltod. Ifof your War fuch bafe Effeftsyou find,
There muft be a ftrange Change wrought in inv M'ind.
But Sir, perhaps you cannot get fo far,
The Gods will of my Fortunes have a care.
And
U5)
And raife a man who may my Caufe defend,
'Gainft all thefe Powers which to you can lend.
Truji. Yoa build your hopes on my prefumptuousSon,
But knowthatboth ofyoutoRuinerun j
Think of that, Madam, andrefolve to be,
Either a Queen, or elfe Laodice.
For 'tis the Jaft AdviceI'legive to you 3
Make Attains King if you would Reign. Adieu.
SCENE II.
Flaminius,and
' Flam. Madam, in (hort, Vertues perfe&ion.
Laod. Follow the King,Sir, your Embafly's done,
Once more 1 tell you, that whilft here I live,
I cannot an Ambafi'adour receive.
Flam. Madam, what I would fay does proceed more
From one's your Friend, than an Ambafi'adour:
From one that of your Safety has a Care,
Touch'd with the Ills you for your felt prepare 3 <
And whilft I do make this my fole Pretence,
You may admit me fay with confidence 3
Perfeftion of Vertue does require,
Prudence fhould be the Checque of your defire,
That of our Intereft we fhould take a Care,
Confider in what times we live, and where,
Elfe height of Courage in a Royal Breft,
Is but a bruitifh Vertue atthe beft.
Which, ( by falfe light of Honor guided ) blinds
With its own Merits, the fublimeft minds:
Leads Heroes to fuch a violent Courfe,
That they from Happinefs themfelves divorce 5
Grafping thofe Ills, which they fhould have prevented
They grow admired, oriely to be lamented 3
Only hereafter with vain fighs to fay,
I had Right to Reign ,but Paffions croft my way.
Laod. Honor to me appears fo fair and bright,
It cannot fure admit of a falfe Light 3
E Yet
(i6)
Yet fince 'tis out of kindnefs, that you do
Inftruift me thus, as Friend I'le anfwer you 5
And without asking by what jealous Fate,
You height of Honor prize at that low Rate j
I dare affirm you'l by experience finde,
Not brutiih Vertue Miftrefs of my minde 5
But fuch'as will my Dignity defend,
And repulfe thofe fhall on it's Rights pretend.
Flam. Conlider Madam, whom you do oppofe,
The Wife, and Valiant, make not them your Foes
Which are too ftrong, but you a King incenfe,
Who makesincreafeof Rule his wholepretence 5
Whofe Army now upon your Frontiers lies,
Numerous, Strong, and skill'd in Vi&ories.
Laod. Tis true, he has a Potent Army there,
But fuch a one, Sir, as I need not fear j
'Tis true, 't has with Succefs and Glory fought,
But when the King fhall think by whom 'twas taught,
He'l either checque thofe Threats ofufing force,
Or finde perhaps that he miftakes his Courfe y
And e're with it he does attempt my Throne,
Levy another to fecure his own.
Flam. Though this weretrue, whiift in his Courts you live,
He'l force that Reafon which you will not give 5
He may do what he will, whiift you are here.
Laod.I, now you have faid all that I could fear.
But out of my own Realms and in his Court,
Vertue 'gainft Tyranny may find fupport.
Sir, thefe Encroachments on the publique good,
Are by the very people underftood :
They know Prince Nichomede, and know the Queen
Her obftinate Hate to him is plainly feen 5 '
They fee the King to all her Humors bends,
And can as well difcern his dangerous Friends.
But for my felf, whofe Fall you think fo nigh
No humor makes me Att* wrdeny ^
But will to fpare thefe Scorns he muft rece've
Though I to him the Stile of King IhouldgLve'i
I
(17 )
* fhould regard him as a common thing,
One born to be my Subjeft, not my King 3
Vf y Vallals too, like me, would think him fo,
And fuch Scorns generous hearts can't undeigo;
Tis out of Favour then I don't expofe
Him, to fuch ignominious Slights as tho
Flam. Madam, if this be fo, 'tis you that Reign,
And ore both Camp, and Courtare Soveraign.
The King's but an Idea, and does bear
No Sway, but what you him in pity fpare.
To receive Embaffies is now your due,
Then as Rower Legate let me fpeak to you*
Or if that Name difguft you here, you may
Still as a private Roman, let me fay, 5
That in thefe dayes the only way to Reign,
Is Romer Alliance, and her Aid to gain $
By it to Neighb'ring States, Kings can give Law,
Quiet their own, and keep their Foes in Awe.
No Monarch better does his Crown defend,
Than whom (he graces with the Name ofFriend:
By it is Attains more King, uncrown'd,
Than thofe whofe Temples Diadems furround.
Laod. I knew to what, Sir, this difcourfe would come,
Kings are not Kings longer than pleafes Rome:
But if the have their Crowns at her difpofe,
To Attainf (he little kindnefs (hows:
She with her Greatnefs does her felf deceive,
Elfe flie'l not beg for him what fhe might give.
Or if that Prince fo much her Fav rite be,
Why fends (he him without a Crown to me ?
Why for a Subjedt ftrives (he thus in vain.
To move that heart, which would a King difdain 3
Stoopt he to Rome, or fuffer'd her Commands,
Sullye the Sup. earn Power in his hands,
My Heart cannot my Glory, Sir, betray,
I fcorn thefe Kings have learn't how to obey.
And fince at large you fee what my Thoughts are.
Spare for the future both your Threats and Prayer.
E 2 Flam.
ft8)
Fl*m. But let me pity, Madam, your Miftake,
And beg you yet would from thefe (lumbers wake.
Think but on Rome, think what her Power can do,
Let your own fafety change thofe thoughts in you.
Carthage deftroy'd, Antiochua o'rethrown,
To be oppos'd fhe is too mighty grown.
Both Sea, and Land, unto her Mandates bow,
And of the World Rome is the Miftrefs now.
Lao J. Miftrefs oth' World ! how would that Name affright
Did I not know Armenia is my Right.
Did none to mighty Hannibal fucceed,
Or he reviv'd not in Prince Nich 5
Or had he not to him the Secret fhown,
How your redoubled Powers may be ©'rethrown.
That valiant Scholar of a Man fo great,
May put his Leflbns, Sir, in prattife yet $
Ajia by three Crowns gain'd, fix Battels fought,
Has prov'd the Condudt which that Mafter taught 5
But thefe were Stroakes he did for tryal (how,
The Capital may fear his Mafter blow.
And he one day—
Flam. That day is yet far off,
The Gods of Rome do at fuch threatnings feoff 5
That God whofe fhade at Cannadid appear,
And fill'd your conquering Hannith fear,
But fee the Mighty Arm that muft become,
One day fo fatal to the Stars of .
SCENE III.
I
Nichomede, Laodice, and Flami&juf*
N'uho. The Power Rome to her Agents gives is large.
Or in my judgment you exceed your Charge.
Flam. Sir, if I a& more than I ought to do.
The Senate may exa& the Account, not you.
Nicho. Go then, and let my Flame the freedom g un,
After your State Intreagues to entertain
(*9) _
The Queen, whofe thought?? perhaps fuffer fuch force,
Under the mighty weights of your difcourfe,
That I the Expence of Time and Art muft ufe,
T' expel thofe Maxims you would introduce*
Flam. The miferiesill plac'd Love might bring on her,
Made me for pity be her Counfellor.
Nicho. Whilft you to pity her fuch Caufes find,
You're an Ambaffadour extreamly kind
But I muft doubt thofe Counfels which you teach.
Madam, what Treacheries did this Roman preach? ^
Flam. You grow outragious.
Nicho. Sir, I Ihould do fo.
Flam. Yet to Ambaffadors Refpeft you owe.
All Countreys to fo ftcred a Degree.
Nicho. Boaft not fo much your Rank and Quality 3
Who Counfels, is Ambaflador no more.
He has renounc'd the Charge he had before—
Did he his Anfwer, Madam, yet receive ?
Laod. Yes, Sir, and fuch as became me to give.
Nicho. Then know, 1 prize you for no more than thus,
Jittalw Agent, and Flaminitu 3
Or if you force me, I (hall add to all,
The Poyfoner of my Matter Hannibal.
Behold what Honors you from me obtain,
If you'ld have more, go to the Ring complain.
Flam. Hee'l do me Juftice, when I make't my Suit,
Or if he fail, yet Rome knowes how to do't.
Nicho. You may of both go ask it if you pleafe.
Flam. Prince, think what may enfue fuch wrongs as thefe.
SCENE IV.
Nichomede, and Laodice.
Nicho. That Counfel for the Queen had been more fit,
My generous Thoughts now to her hate fubmit 3
Thefe thoughts to which my Jufticedid appeal, *
And made me long her murdrous Plots conceal.
(3°)
Till forc'd by new defigns, I now did bring,
Z tnonand Mithrobatetto the King $
Who knowing fomething will furprize his Ear,
He does himfelf their informations hear.
Laod. 1 know not what, Sir, the event maybe,
But this proceeding's not approv'd by me }
Nor what (hould force you to't I cannot guefs,
The more the Queen (hould fear, (lie fears the lefs;
And (fill the more (he is difgrac'd by you,
She with more fiercenefs will her Hate purfue.
Nicho. Fain would (he make my juft Complaints appear,
The effe&s of my Refentments againft her,
But that falfe Mask of Courage which (he wears,
Shrouds but her Doubts, and does difguife her Fears.
Laod. Court Myft'ries are oft fo clofe and fine,
We but at Random of their Aimes divine;
Whilft to defend me, Sir, you were not here,
Rome never did for Attains appear 5
Nor to our Loves the lead difturbance gave,
But now, whilft you but one dayes freedom have,
That day, and in your fight the Roman State,
PrefTes for an Alliance, which (hate }
So that there's nothing which I can perceive,
But urges you with fpeed to take your leave 5
For whilft you ftill within their Pow'r remain,
Strange Throngs of Fears over my Spirits reign.
The King dotes on his Wife, Fears, Romei and you,
By your Renown have made him jealous too,
I fcarce dare think what I am forc'd to fay,
There's too much Reafon to expedt foul play.
And you but I lee Attains appear,
What Projefts, what Defigns can bring him here >
Perhaps the fearch of me is his (ntent,
If fo, retiring I'le that Game prevent.
J? un
SCENE V.'
Nichomede9 Attains, and Laodice.
Atta. Madam,that converfe was fofweet before.
Now mine is interposes fo no more.
Laod. Your importunity that's fo extream,
Me in my fecond felf may entertain 3
Knowing my heart my Spokefman he'I become.
And aniwer you as he has anfwer'd Rome.
SCENE VI.
Nichomede, and Attains.
I Atta. If, Sir, my prefence drives the Queen away
will retire■■
Njcho. No, no, Prince you may ftay,
For I have fomething ftill to fay to you,
I laid by all thefe Rights that were my due 3
The Thoughts of being deftin'd to a Throne*
Refolving to maintain my Love alone 5
And did requefl* you wouldlattempt her fo, *
And nothing to the Kings, or Rome* Aidowy
But I mufl: either think your memory's bad,
Or you make no account of what I faid.
Atta. You force me ill, Sir to remember this,
Whilft yet between us nothing equal is.
'Tis true, you with fome Rights of Birthright part*
But will you. Sir, give up the Princefs Heart.
Thofe Vertues did create hi* Love, decline
And quit thofe Glories make you feem divine,
Six Battels gain\l,three mighty Kingdoms won.
The glorious Affault of many a Town.
Sir, with foch Seconds, what can equal you ?
Make then theQueen indifferent ctwixt us two*
Let her no more that Mafs of Glory fee,
Heapt on you by Succefs and Viftory.
At once, Sir, Jet her from heart remove
Your mighty Deeds, your Vertues and her Love,
Or elfe flgainft all that odds, let me prevail
To place the King, and Rome in rother Scale 5
Yom
( p)
You may by what already is obtain'd,
Judge there will little by their aid be gain'd.
Nicho. Prince, this Excufe is very bravely fram'd
I fee you han't loft all your time at Rome,
And if not Courage, have brought Cunning home.
SCENE VII.
Arjinoe, Nichomedes Arafpes^ Attains,
Arafp. Tis the Kings pleafure, Sir, you him attend.
Nicho. What I .<?
Arafp. Yes, Sir, he fent me to that end.
Arjin. Prince, calumnies are eafily o*rethrown.
Njcho. Madam, that Truth by me is fo well known,
I wonder you inftrud me in a thing
I never doubted—
Arfm. Why then did you bring,
Sweli'd with vain hopes which will your felf enfnare
Z°non^ and Mrfhrobatesfrom fo far,
Nicho. I was refolv'd the whole fhouldbe concealed,
And you haveforc'd it, if it be reveal'd.
Arjin. Truth forc'd it 5 and did o're your Gifts prevail,
Such Undertakings, Sir, do often fail.
They both faid fomewhat more than what you taught.
Nicho. If you're difpleas'd you that difpleafure fought.
Arfin* 1 cannot be difpleas'd at what I find,
Save that it blemilhes fo brave a mind,
That to thofe mighty Titles which you had,
We muft the bafe one of Suborner add 5
Njcho. Then to accufe you,thev are fubornd by me
Arjin. Prince, mines the trouble, yours the fhame will be ?
Nicho. And thus their Credit you would take away.
Arfin. No Prince, I rather ftand to what they fay.
Nicho. What have they faid which your belief can gain?
Arjin. Two mighty Words which will augment your Fame.
Njcho. May not I know thefe words of 10 much weight ?
Arafp, The King expefis. Sir, your Attendance ftraight.
Arfin. From him youcl hear them, go know his command®
Nicho. Madam,I now begin to underftand
His
(33)
His love toyou, chafing his love to me.
Will make you faultlefs, and me guilty be.
Bui *
Arftn. What? continue what that But does mean?
Nico. Two weighty words which lie think of again.
Arfin. Thofe words of fo much weight may not we know?
Nico, You 1 hear them from the King, to whom I go.
SCENE VIII.
Arjinoe and
Arfin. My fon, we Triumph^ this great
Begins to fee how his Deceits fucceed,
Thofe two Accufersby himfelf produccd,
Which fhould to kill him, be by me feduc'd 5
Ehit to defame me were fuborn'd by him,
Being ftartled at fo foul and black a fin.
Both accus'd me, but did declare as foon
They to it by the Princes Gifts were won :
How mighty's Truth before the face of Kings,
It from the Souls dark parts, a fecret brings.
That Prefencedoes all Falfhood foon confound.
They've loll their own, who fought my Fame to wound.
Att. Madam, 1 joy to fee fuch a Deceit
Has left your Glories yet more pure and great.
But put this Bufinefs to a clofer Tefl,
And lay afide a while your Intereft,
You'l lefs indulgence to a Humor give.
Makes you thofe Villains with fuch eafe believe,
Their ftory twice this day has alter'd bin,
Subor'nd by you, and then fuborn'd by him.
Againft a man in whom fuch Vertues reign,
Such treacherous Souls fhould no belief obtain!
A confefs'd Traitor does not faith deferve.
Arfin. You 're generous, Attalar, andlobferve,
That even a Rivals Glory's dear to you.
Att. If I'm his Rival, he's my Brother too,
We're of one blood, and that blood in my veins,
Forbids me think him guilty offuchftains.
Arfin. And does that blood of yours forbid you lefs,
F To
(T4 )'
To think your Mother is a Murtherefs?
Your Mother, whofe Deftru&ion muft be fare,
Ilnlefs his Lofs her Safety does procure.
Alt a. If 1 'gainft him fuch witnefs fcarce believe.
To them 'gainft you I can no credence give 5
But yet your Vertue that's above all Crime,
May let me keep for him a juft Efteem.
His Glory has thofe jealous Spirits rais'd,
Which arebefr pleas'd when Vertue is difgrac'd.
Who with bafe afts (fpur'd on by Envy) ft rive
To dark the Luftre of fo fair a Life
For me, if other minds by ours be known,
Or we can guefs of their thoughts by our own,
I muff prefume that I in him (hall finde
The felf fame Maximes, and the felffame minde*
With that great Rival I have fair play us'd,
Not fought his Ruine, nor his Fame traduc'd.
Thofe Aids I have, I did demand aloud.
And I think him with fuch brave thoughtsendow'dy
That Gloryonely his Defigns infpires,
Andvbutwith Merit counters my Defires.
Arjin. Intreagues of Court you never yet did prove.
Atta. Should Princes not like Princes treat of Love ?
Arfw. You treat and talk like one-did little know.
Atta. Madam, I fpeak thofe Vertues Rome did (how.
Arfin. From time perhaps you will the knowledge gain.
What Vertues fhould compofe a Monarchs Train.
Mean time, although that he your Brother be^
Think that you have a Mother Hill of be,
And to defeat what you oft his conceive.
Come fee haw far the King does it believe.
ACT IV. SCENE I.
PAtjfass Ayjiptte^ Arajpes.
"* A3';»y fftSi #'•
Madam,
(35)
Madam, thofe fighs which do my Bowels rear.
What need you thus with grief my Soul opprefs?
Thofe Tears will nothing add to your Redrefs j
Nor is there need of them for your Defence,
Do I his Crimes doubt, or your Innocence ?
Or in all I have faid3 what do you finde,
Should make you think that I can change my mind?
Arji. Ah Sir,what can repair thofe wrongs that be
Thrown on the Jufteft by bafe Calumny ?
Virtueonce charg'd with falfhood, can no more
Be made fo pure, fo bright as 'twas before.
Still feme reproachful menvry does remain.
Which to the brighteft Glory brings a ftain.
Whilft,Sir5 Detraction harbours in your Court,
And People blindly,would the Prince fupport 5
Truth is too weak that Scandal to remove,
They'l think me freed from onely by your love 5
And if the leaft Spot reft upon my Fame,
If your worft Subje<fts but fuppofe the fame,
Can Ideferve your love? or do t hefe Fears
Concern too little then to merit Tears ?
Fruf. You 're fcrupulous, and do too much miftruft
A Husbands love3 that knows his love is juft :
Glory by Calumny becomes more bright.
And from its darknefs gains a greater light:
But here's the Prince, and you fhall fee to day——•
SCENE II.
FrufiaSi Arfttiot) Ntcomcde9 Arafpes, Guards*
*
Arfin> Pardon Sir, Pardon for our onely ftay:
Pardon for Laurels are fo fertile grown 3
Pardon for the Supporter of your Throne,
Pardon"
Nico. For what Madam? Three Kingdoms won,
Which my death rnuft devolve upon your Son ?
For having fo far preft your conquering Arms,
That even Rome has taken the Alarms :
F 2
For
(3^)
For having too much Regal Power fuftain'd,
For that Renown I through the world havegain'd,
For having with Succefs and Glory fought,
Following the Maxims my great Matter taught,
If I want Pardon choofe 'mongft thefe my Crimes 5
I know no more, Madam, unlefs you'l joyn,
That Villains ("by fome others gain*d)betraid
My eaOe Faith to credit what they faid.
That having a clear Soul free from deceit,
I wanted light to fee into their cheat.
Tis glory this, and not a crime for one
Who lives in Camps, where no Court Tricks are known
Who fcorning bafenefs, does not Thunder fear,
And knows no Stratagems, butthofe of War.
Arfin. Sir, I recant: he cannot guilty be,
Loading me with eternal Infamy,
He onely does that common Hate obey,
Man to the odious Name of Step dame pay,
That Humour having in his heart took Root,
He does to me the ftrokes of Fate impute.
Does Hannibal his Mailer (having here
The Publique Faith) giveuphimfelf to fear,
And rather truft his Life and Liberty
To black Defpair, than Hofpitality ?
ThofeTerross which his doting Soul invade*.
Are onely Plots by me before-hand laid.
Though he fuch Charms in Laodice efpies,
'Tis I mak e Attains fee with the fame eyes,
Tis 11 he Aids of Rmse againft him gain'd,
And all that wounds him iflues from this hand.
But though to blemtlh h'attempted have,
That Matter to revenge, that Miftrefs fave,
All might be pardon'd in a Jealous Lover,
But I do fomething more in this difcover^'
Twas not his Love that fotter'd this Defign
That I m your Wife, Sir, is my greatett Crime.
From that Name onely fprings this Calumny,
J or in Ihort^ what can he charge on me ?
C 3 7 )
Have T fince firfl your Armies he did command,
Deny'd th'affiflance both of Voice and Hand?
Have I refus'd him that Renown was due ?
And when he (food in need of Aids from you,
And might have perifht had they been delay'd,
Who better preft that neceffary Aid i
Senthim quick Succors, both of Men and Treafure,
And to fupply his Wants, made it my pleafure 5
You know this, Sir, but fee he does return
For all that 1 have done, Reproach and Scorn.
To rob me of your love, has fcandal us'd,
But (fill in Jealous Lovers all's excus'd :
If&y't again—
Truf. Whatanfwer canft thou make ?
Nico. That the Queens goodnefs I muff wonder at.
I will not fay that with thofe Aids (he gave,
By which the did my Life and Honor fave,
And which with fo much Pomp (he does repeat,
She fought by my hand to make digreat,
And by this Arm of mine thofe Glories heapt,
Which this day tells us Ihould by him be reapt 5
By what (lie was to fo much kindnefs wrought,
I leave to Heaven to judge,that knows her thoughsi
Thofe gods who heard the Vows (he made for me, •
Will of our Caufe the beft Deciders be.
Mean time, fince the appearance is fofair.
She fpoke for me, I ought to fpeak for her.
And for her intereft, I mud let you know,
In punching two Villains, yos're too flow.
Ztuonand Methrobates ought to be
A Sacrifice to her wrong'd Dignity,
They fcothaccus'd berfirft,and that fcarce done
They made her fauklefs, to accufe your Son 5 '
But no way clear'd themfelves, their death is made
Too juft,for having thus with Greatnefs plaid.
Offences done to thofe of our Degree,
Can no way but by blood, repaired be.
Fbs <"
(;8)
For things unfaid, you cannot pardon give,
The Blot remains vyl.ilft the Impoftors live,
And fparing them, you Royal Blood expofe
Unto the malice of fuch Tongues as thofe,
Th'examples ill your.Life in hazard lies,
If you let fcape fuch fpreading Calumnies.
Arfin. How Sir, would you deftroy 'urn for that truth
Which Heaven did fuddenly put intheir mouth,
That truth which does reffore to you your Wife,
Cancels her Scandals, and fecures her Life ?
That truth which did your Sentence, Sir, fufpend,
Whilft for my Int'reft he does this pretend?
You have no'Cunnsng, Prince, no Court tricks know.
Truf. Leave'um, and of your own Defence think now
Purge your felfof a Crime fo bafe and low.
Nico. I purge iny felf, you cannot Sir, think fo,
You know too well thofe of my Dignity
When they grow guilty, aim at things more high 3
Their Failings like their Glories are fiiblime,
And with theis: Pow'r they do prote& their Crime.
T' have rais'd your People, brought your Army here,
In an oppreft Queens In'trefts to appear, •
Snatcht her from hence in fpite of or you,
Or all that Attalu-.1 Rivalfhip could do,
And oftheir Tyrannies have ftopt thecourfe,
With all your own, and all Armenia's Force,
Had been fit Crimes for fuch a Soul as mine,
If I a breach of Duty could defign.
Mean Spirits for Revenge ufe to defame,
And 'tismoft properly the Womans Game.
'Gainft thofe Impoftors then your Sentence give,
For my fake, or the Queens they ought not live.
At the Jaft moment, men with Heaven make peace,
Truth beft appears when Worldly Int'refts ceafe,
And thofe bafe fpirits when about to die
Perhaps may once more what they faid, deny.
Arfin. Ah Sir! 3 ' Y
(3
Nico. Pray Madam, the true Caufe declare.
Why you {hould prefs fo hard thefe Lives to (pare;
Or let us think you fear, left dying they
Might out of conference fome clofe Plots convey.
Arfi. What hate than this Sir, can more cruel be >
Whilft Tde acquit him, he accufes me.
But Sir, perhaps my prefence whets his Rage,
I by my abfence may thefe Heats affwage ,
And quieting a Spirit foar'd fo high,
Prevent thofe Crimes at which he yet may fiie.
I will not ask that Pity (hould procure
For my protection, you a Crown fecure.
Nor do I feek my Attalus to fave,
That he (hould half of your Dominions have.
If that your Roman Friends requeft it fo,
I never did of their Intentions know.
They with their Pow'rs may favor (till my Son,
But 1 (hall need no Aids when you are gone.
Move too well Sir, not to follow you,
When in thefe arms you pay to Fates their due 3
Upon your Tomb my Love's laft Duty, Grief,
At once (hall facrifiee my Tears and Life,
Truf. Ah Madam !
Arjin, Yes Sir, when that time fhall come,
Your Deftiny and mine (hall be but one.
Then fince he never (hall my Soveraigti be.
What (hould I fear ? what can he do tome t
All that I ask in favor of that Gage,
That Son, who does fo much his hate engage.
Is that he may return to Rome^ and there
Finifh his days under that Senates care $
To whonl you did commit his Youth,- and be
A weak Remembrance of your love to mey
This Prince will ferve you better than before,
When Jealoufies (hall wound his Thoughts no mtire
And fear not Sir, though thus you Rome defie,
For all her Power his Valour is too high.
- •- C 4°)
#
The Secrets of great Hannibal he knows.
From whom Home did receive fuch mighty blows,
Africk.and Ajia yet admiring ftand,
At t hofe renown'd Advantages he gain'd
For Carthage and Antioch/tt. But new
I go Sir, and the liberty allow
To your Paternal Goodnefs, to improve
The tendernefs of Nature, and of Love:
1 mult not longer in your Prefence fee
My felf unworthily reproached be.
Nor would I move your angeragainft one
Who is your Valiant,and your Conquering Son.
SCENE III.
Tr lift as, Nicomede, AraCpef) Guards.
Truf. This in my breft does ftrange diforders raife
Yet Nicomede, I cannot think thee bafe,
But let's yield fomewhat to the Senates Prayers,
And ftrive to reaffure the Queen who fears 5
Pafiion for her, Affe&ion pleads for thee,
I would not have this Hate eternal be.
Yet though I prize them, cannot in my breft:
Cherilh thefe thoughts onely to break my reft.
1 would make Love, and Nature, of accord,
Father, and Husband be 5 and in a word—
N ico.If I.may with you any credit win,
Be neither one, nor t'other.
Truf. What then ?
Nico. King.
Bravely that Noble Charafter refume,
Paffionsin Monarchs hearts lhould finde no room,
Father and Husband are refpefts not known
To a true King, who .liquid regard his Throne,
And nothing more. Reign as you ought then, Sir,
And Rome will fear you more, than you fear her.
See but how (lie who dares to threaten you,
With apprehenfions does my Lofs purfue, '
Hoping by lofing me, ftrange things to gain,
(
Prmfi. Thus thenun grateful i'lc fhy couniel ufo,
haodiec^ or my fou r Kingdoms cfiooie.
'Twixt thee and Attains thy King does make
This dividend, thou one of them muft take
No longer Father now, but King i'iebe.
Nico. Were you a s well King of Lao^ic^
And couid with Juftice fuch a choice propofc,
/Ibould ask time e're 1 my thoughts difclofe.
But now to fhow my will to pleafure you,
Yet with refped not to offend her too,
1 anfwer without frivolous delay,
To your intentions not to what you fay.
To that dear B rother all thofe rights tranfpofe
And let Laodice be free to choofe. "
By that fee which is mine.
Prufi. Poor ab/e$ mind,
VVhac fury makes thee for a woman-blind*
Prefer'ft thou her to all thy glorious fights?
To all thy valour to my Realm unites >
After fu h bafenefs* doft deferve to live >
Nico. i follow that example which you give>
Prcier not you a woman to that Yon,
By whom thole Vi&ories thole crowns were wofft
Prufi' Do you fee me renounce a crown for mine>
Nico. Do you imagine that is my dcfigh ?
If to my brother what is yours 1 quit,
I nothing yeild having no right to it,
For what can 1 unto your CJrowns pretend >
Till death fhall to your Right and Reign give end*
Pardon me Sir the Harfhnefs of the Phrale,
Yet Fate in fine does limit Monarchs days
Your people then, wanting a King, will iee
And choofe perhaps betwixt that Prince and mef
Sir3 our rcfemblance isnotyetfoni^h.
But dulleft eyes a difference may eipy.
And the old rights of birth have oft been knowft
To call an Exile back to fill the throne: * v
_ uo
Ot if your Sub/e&s thoughts with yours agree,
Thcir's others brought under your yoke by roe.'
And though Rome ftill het /ealoufie purfue,
1 can do for my felf what's done for you:
Pruji. /Me take a courfe for that I < ~
Nico. It may be done.
If to their Fears you facrificc your fon .* r
Elle your Eftates refign'd unto that Prince,
Shalliiot be his, when you are gone from hence
'Tis not in fecret, that/this declare,
Butfpeak it, that he may himielf prepare..
He hears me now. J
Pru. Ingrateful without Wood.
/(hall know how to. make his titles good. 5
And you«—
SCENE IV.
PrupaSyNuomedei^ttduSy Fhmi/tiuS,
Flam. Iimy affront this anger draws,
Sir you might fpare it tofo light a caufe
Romemayreceive it with refentmentsdue
But!have Friends that (hall appeafe her too^
Pru. iMc do her right, to morrow from this hand, .
AiuluiCuiW receive uipream command:
IMe make him King of Pont us and my heir,'
And for this Rebel who does fo much darej
Rome (hall be Judge what his affronts defervei
in Attains (lead, he (hall for Hoftage fcrve.
And tocondu& him fitmeans lhall be found/
So foon as he has feen his Brother crown'd,
. j Nico.And will you fend me then to Rome ?
Pru. Yes Sir:
Go, ask your dear Laodice front her:
Nico. IMe go, i'le go Sir, and (hall there appear,'
A greater Monarch then you dare be here.
Flam. Rome on your anions will true value fet.'
Nic o 5 Gently El'mims. we are not there yet
The Journey's longi j»nd you may be deceived,
.Things well begun are often ill atchciv'd.
Fru. Away Arafpes,double now his Guard*
Atta: Six.
Fru. Thank Rme3and Aill have this regard.
That as her powers are thefprings of yours,
,'Tis her fupport alone your power fecures.
But Sir 1 now muft your eicufe del?re, (ttPlmtnius.
The Queens difgufts fome comfort do require.'
rie therefore go but leave him ftill with you,
Attains once more give Rtme thofe thanks are due.
S C EN-E V.
Attaint and F
Atta. What value fhall I on thefe favours fee
Which for the higheft Merit are too great ?
Your kindaefs doesfo far all bounds furpafs
It hasfor my ambition leftno place,
Yet Sir I needs muft fay mysFathers throne,
Would not compleat myhappinefs alone,
That which moft charms my fpiritis that now.
The Armenian Queen may to my wilhes bow.
The fcepter which does make me worthy her.#^
Flam. Will not your paffiion in her heart prefer ?
Atta. .Sir refolutions are not always one,
Our thoughts are oftchang'd by occation,
Betides it was her dying Fathers care,
She fhould be fpoufc to the Bithtntan heir."
Flam. She being Qyecn, that will's no order now,
Further then'tis her pleafure to allow,
Betides what can fhe in a Crown refpe&,
Given in that Princes wrong (he does arfcdt,
In you who rob her of a Friend lo dear,
And of his fall the only Authour are.
Atta. That Prince fent hence, to whom fhall fhe complain
Who can gain bRme3and us- her caufe fuftain,
For ftill I protnife to my Cell'your aid,
Flam* Counfels are different by occafionsmade
G And
(44)
And to be plain, Prince i'le not promife it, •
Atta. At this Rate Sit you do confound me quwe
By Soveraign power 1 am but wretched grown
I f I muft loofe your Friendfhi p with my crown.
But 1 Romes/'uftice wrong in doubting thus
Han't you her orders ?
Flam. Yes for Attalv.
Frff that Prince whom die from his Cradle knew
But for the King of Pontes muft have new,
Atta. New orders Sir I cannot underftand,
Why Romfhould crufh (he work of her own hand
Unlets fbe /ealous of my power become.
Flam What i'ft you fay Prince, what i'ft you preiume?
Ana. Only from you Sir/would comprehend
To what this unequallity v*ould tend.
Flam. 1 would explain't and would recover you
From thefe deftru&ive errors you purfue,
Rome courting for you the Armenian Queen,
Difpenc'd with Juftice out of that efteem
She had for you, but ft nee fhe does obtain,
Yqu by more /uft and equal ways may Reign,
Glory does with her love to you difpence
And flops her a&ing further violence.
Then leaving that Qpeen to her own thoughts free
Your wiibes muft ellewhcre dire&ed be*
Rome will a fitting match for you provide.
Atta. But if that Queen confent to be my bride ? ,
Flam.Twil hazard yet Ramet Glory, and appear
As if fomc artifice of hers it were.
Prince ifmy words can any credit gain,
You muft endeavour to fuppreis this flame.
Or if of my advice you take no heed,
Stay for the Senates e're you do proceed.
Atta. Finding fuch coldnefs to fuch love fucceed,
Rome lov'd not me, but hated Nicomtde
And whilft to feed my AVifhes fhe does Feign
Contrives my lofs then when (he makes me Reign."
Flam. Sri thai j»y anfvvers may not be tooruae,
T o thefe effays of your'ingratitude,
Follow your humour, an<i your Friends offend.'
Your Soveraign now, and all things may pretend.
Yet fince it is io (refh you can't dilown
* Tis Rome which this day feats you in a throne,
Remember what the King but now did fay,
You will be nothing when you loofe her ftay.
SCENE VJ.
Atta. Was it thus Attains thy Grandfires reign'd?
Wilt thou be King to have thy power rcftrain'a
By fuch a World of Mailers ? Ah I find,
Titles thus bought are irkfome to my mind.
If for fueh^Mafters / muft gain a Crown
'Twere better tobelub/e&itill to one,
And heaven has given him Co great and brave
*Twere bafe to flight him and become Have,
Then to the Romans let us boldly (how
Living amongft them we their Maximes know,
That all they do they to fomeends apply
And all their Friendships yeilds to policy
Then in our turn let us be jealous too,
And a£t for us what for themfelves they do*
The end of the Fourth A<5t,
f. t ,'! v*\, ,f|f! > V- . . .
I 1| r
ACT V. SCENE I.
Arfwoe, Attains.
Arfi. "T*0 fear this Rout, / fee no roafon why
What's in a moment bom, as foon will dye
Ifdarknefsdoes increafe its noife, the light
Will diffipate the vapours of the Night.
Lefsdoes the peoples.tumult me dilturb
Then to fee, thou canft not thy pafiion curb."
But
Pat led, by lovefofruitlefs andfo vain _
Contemn u not iierj did thee To muchdifdam
I.~t that ungrateful from thy thoughts be chac't.
Now thou above her art by Fortune plac't;
It was her throne, not eyes, thou fhouldft adore j
Reigning without her; love her then no more.
Oder that heart to more obliging chains,
Now th'art a King, Afia has other Queens,
Who would not tcoraful of thy fighes appear,
Bur pay thofe vows to thee, thou payed to her.
A :til,But Madam, if—
A rjin.Why if (he fhould prove kind,
Theirs danger in'c not feen by love that's blind ;
Aifoone as of her Crown foffeft thou be
She will engage thee in her hate to me.
But Oh Gods Jean her rage thofe limits keep.
Can'ft thou in fafety in her bofotne fleep ?
Thinked thou that her refentments will not prove
Tire fwerd or poyfon to revenge herlove.
What is't a woman won't in futy do ?
Atta. You with falfe arguments conceal the true.1
T he Senate who no powerful King would fee,
Feard that in Nicomtdc they fear in me.
To a queens bed I cannot now pretend,
Unlefs 1 will our foveraign Re offend,
And fincc by it my Intcreds I betray,
To keep her favour dill 1 mud obey,
Thofe profound pollicies 1 underdand.
By which (he hadens to the worlds command.'
If any Monarch grows too great and high,
His ruine mud remove her /ealoufic.
Who makes a Conqued give* a wound to Raw a,
Which can't endure too great a power in one.
But alwaves thinkes/ud cauleot warr appears
'Gainft thofe whofe greatnefs may or'e (haddow hersi
CT'iey who of Empire beft the rules do know,
* /ill make us all things to their orders owe,
f heir po wer or'e Kings to that vaft height is grown
All (loop to them, while they depend on noaei
Madam, too well / am inllru<5led thus,
Bythc fall of Carthage and Antiochas, -
Lead! be crufht like one of them, i'le bow,
And reafons which 1 can't oppofe allow,
Bate this complyancefrom mc now commands,'
Since you give Nicomede into their hands,
That Oftage will fecure my Faith or be,
A Lyon ready to let Ibofe on me:
Arjt. This is what 1 intended toadvife
Bnt with this prudence you my foul Curprizc -
Thefe things nvay change, but let itbe your care
T owink atjealoufies which ufeful are.
SCENE II?
.
Afjinoe, Attains,
Arfi.sit is it not a conqueft worth the pain
That from a Lover I belief can gain,
Make him with duty that fierce flame controul
And feat again his reafon in his foul,
Fla. Madam, 'twere well fuch conqueds to purlue
And make this people reafonable too
ffis time their growing tumults to reftrain
Or if you drive too late you'l drive in vain,
On a weak Bafls yon thofe Fancy es found
Make you believe they will themfelves confound
Rome ufes not commotions to oppofe
With fitch tame Resolutions as tfiofe
But when to popular-rage they'l found retreats
That fenate fpares hot either prayers or threats
With refolution herafifairs (he (leers
And from her feven hills drives her Mutineers;
Who would a horriblcdefcenthave made
yf they had longcr there regardlefsdaid.
Left to the freedom to «A what they pleafei
As you in this occafion give to thefe,
Arfu f inceR«j»»f does io, we'l to her rules fubmie
(487
Her great example doth authorize it *
And the King (hall —but now himfelf is here.1
SCENE III.
Prufias, At [woe j Flaminm, Attains.
Pru. The whole defign does now to me appear;
Theie Mutineers are by Armenians led,
And have declarcd that Queen to be their head;
Flam. I did at firft that 'twas her plot iufpcft,
Atta. For all your cares (he pays you this rcfpefh
Flam. Sir now the times neceflity obey,
Think what to do, talk docs but breed delay.
SCENE IV.
Prufias, Affinoe^ Flaminm^ Attains y Cleone.
Cleo. Nothing can now the peoples rage withftand
Madam they with loud cryes the Princedemand*
And have to fuch a height their Furies born
His twoaccufers are in pieces torn.
Arfi. Thofe victims paid unto the peoples hate
We with their Fury may our fears abate.
In thofe two Wretches blood, their hands being dy*d
They'l think the Prince is amply fatisfy'd.
Flam. Madam if this diforder had no chief?
/ fhould incline to be of your belief.
The peoples rage no further might pretend
Butform'd defigns have feldom iuchan endf
They prels at what they have contrivcd before
The firft bloodfhed opens the way to more,
Flefhes, and harden?, does all honor chace
And unto fearorpitty leaves no place.
SCENE V.
1 . ■ i i . 5 J . -J~\ . < ♦
Prufias^ Flawinius, Arfinoe, ht talus Cleone, Arafpts.
Araf. The tumult towards the Court fir makes fuch haft;
And your falie Guards do quit .thcirjofts Co fail,
/dying may my Loyalty afture,
But
But cannot longer fir the Prince iefcuYe,
Pruf. Lets go, lets go then to thefe rebels giVO
That head they leek to crown whilft wee'r alive
•From off the battlements wce'l to them throw
That precious ob/'c£t which they covet fo.
A tta. Ah sir.
Pru9' Yes yes;'tis thus we ought to* give,
And they who fo dennnd,fhouId fo receive,
J tta. 8uz firyouT thus, thefe mutincrs engage
To execute the utmoft of their rage:
The <2uecn, Flmintus nor your Ma/'cfty
Cannot in any hopes of fafcty be.
Pru. Whatfhall 1 to thefe Rebells then go down
And with their darling, yeild them up my Crown,
' Theres but that choice: theirpowcr outmatching mine
lmuft my Scepter or my Life refign.
Flam. Though there were /ufttce in what you prop0fe
'Can you fir of that Princes t'$e difpofe ?
The power you could pretend ore him is gone :
He's now Romes hoft age and no more your Son.
And though a Father havefofgot him quit:-,
I muft remember whatcs thcSenates right; *
Which taking of his life you muft invade,
Gfwhich/will be no ab£ttot made.
My Galley's now lye ready in the port
And theirs a private paifagefrom the Court:
If then my counfels can't his fall prevent,
To my departure firftgrvc yourconfcnr,
That thereby to the word it may appear,
Rome is more juft then y6u, and leis fevere,
Expofc not her to that contempt and fhanie,
To fee her hoftage in her Own fight flain.
Arft/i. Sir, may 1 fpeak what 1 think's fir to do?
Pru. Yesfor there can com: nothing ill from you
Arfin. Heaven then to mc, a fure device has fhown,
To purchafe Pomes contentment and your own
Since fir his Galleys ready are to go ,
He may with eafe take home his hoftage too.
(. r*
The defigfis favoured by the private gate s,
But all things better to facillitate:
•Show your fclf to the people appear kind,
And feem ro their defires to be inclin'd.
Aad thas amuzing them give time till he
With all theii hopes have gain'd the open Sea,
V Vhcn if they force the Court) and mifs the Prince,
Appear confus'd, fay has ftolrt him hence,
Promife your/uft Revenge (hall pur Cue her,
And all thit in it her afliftants were.
Send after him with the approaching morn,
Flatter them with the hopes of his return,
And with a thoufind Arts you may devife ,
Still give advantage to the enterprize
How highfo c're their tranfports now appear,
They'l attempt nothing whil&far him they Fear,
Or whilfl they (hall perceive all force is vain
Thus you allured fafety may obtain:
But if they find him we muft fly this ftate,
For at firftfight they'lhim their King create.
You think fo I believe fir ?
Pru.Yes, I do?
And think the Gods fent this advice to you.
Then,this what better could, contrived be ?
Flrn. It gives you glory, life and liberty,
Befidcs Lsodkt\s (till Hoftage here,
So that we nothing but delays can fear.
Bra. Then talk no more let's follow the advice,
y/rj?. ^rjjprr and three louldiers will luffice,
To guard him, numbers faithlefsoft appear :
ile to Liodice, and l'ecure her.
Attaint where run you.
Atta. 1 go to trysone pro/e&to appeafe their, muting.
*Twil add another to yout ftratagem,.
Ar[i.Think y our concerns and mine are ftill the fame
fTis for your fake if I in danger be.
a.Madam, icIe pcrifh or i'le fe^ ycu free.
Go then[ the Armctsiao gpecn 1 yonder fee.
' " 1 fjiJ
SCENE VI.
jirfinoefLaodicf>Cleone
Jrft. Muft (he who cauPd thefe harms unpuni(h'dbe
Laod. No Madam, a fit punifhment Tie find,
For the fmall Faults of her ambitious mind.
Ar/i.Spe&k you that puniftiroenr who know her crime
Laod, A fmall abafement will fetve for a 2ueens
To fee her plots prevented may fuffice.
Jrft. Say-rather that her rafhnefs to chaftife,
Scepters and Crown (he does defetve to loofe;
Laod.Great fpiritjj feldom fuch revenges ufe,
When they have once osrecome they foon forget
And temperate bounds unto their anger fet,
Arft. Thofe that believe you would bc foon content
Laod. Heaven gave not me afoul more violent,
Arft. To raife Up fub/e&s 'gainft their Soveraign
To hazard Kingdoms to the fword and flame,
/nto the Court to prels their infolence,
Call you this Madam, little violence.-
Laod. We're both mill a ken, Madam, and I fee,
What I fpeak for you, you explain for mc:
But for what touches me all cares are paft
'Twas to l'erve you that made me hitner haft,
Leaft Afajellymight fufifer fomething rude
From the inrag'd fury of a multitude,
Send for the King and Attains that /
In them preferve the Royal Dignity.
Which e'lfe an angry people may affail.
Arft: Did ever pride o'rc .woman thus prevail
You that the caute of thefe diforders Were,
Ycu that in my own courts my Captife are
You whofe blood (kail attone thefe crimes and be
A vi&inv toaffronted'j/a/efly.
With confidence dare thus your crime purfue,
And talk as if /(hould ask graee of you.
Laod. /Madam, whilft you thusobrtiriate appear,
Y ou don't believe tis 1 that cc mm and hcfr .•
H 2 Tha t
That when I pleafe you fhall my vi£tfm be
Nor can this Tumult be a fault in me,
Your people are all guilty, and in them,
Juftly thefe a&s you may as crimes condemn,
But I'me a Qyeen and cannotbe accused*
/f for my fafety 1 thefe Rebels us'd:
Since rrghrs ot Warr did never yet deny
Railing revolts againft an Briemy--
Who rohs me ot my fpoufe,/ mine may caltr
jirfw. 1 am fc MS&Xn*rahd what ere befall,
B lure when ere thek Rebels force the Court
Thu moment with Vcurhead you aniwcrfor'c
Laod. You'Ifalfcfy your threats, or on my tombe
Soon fee a great and foyal Hrccatcmbe
Buc ^fadam, could y ou do'i although there wer&
Zcmn and Mitbrokatts harbor'd here,
Think you my plots have bin fo lamely fram'd
yujt /have likcvviieyourdomeftkksgaihV.
Fi/id out a man that wouldhis life betray>v-.
That's fond of dying, and.heecl you obey, .
Y^to'rc Byt hints 1 pretend nofvay,
Give me freepalBge to Armenia
And that you may yourown /uft power regain-
lie (lore my fpouie^ whom you with hold in vain
Arfma That fpoufe of yours,you may towards R Me purftie
Fhminius hashim,hee'l reftorehim y©u.
Bit pray make hafte,ycu5l mifshim eIie,for he
1$ by this time at lcaft a league at ica0
Laod. Could 1 believe'*—^
Arfva. You may do't if you pleafe*
L&od. Fly then thole furies which my fpkus fcizc^
Afrer the knowledg of an ad fo foulr
All generous thoughts are bannifht from my foul
But rather as my hoftage here remain^.
Till with this hand5.his freedom 1 regain, " > noo
lcle go and pluck him from themidtfof-R^, ! H
With all your fub;c<as, and with all my own "
At her ovyn gates ick give her my Alarmes*
"WfTii' —.— — y -
f 53)
Supported with ten hundred thou land armesj
My rage l"hall their her tyrannies lubdue*
Jrfin. Tnen you'l in fine reign ore too ?
And in that frenzy does poifeis you now
The King muft of your Regency a'low.
Laod. Madam il'e reign, and yet not in/ure him,
.Since he is but the pl&ure of a King. .
What need he care, who laws does here ordain,.
Or whether Rome or 1 for him does reign.
But fee 1 hive an other holtage yet.
S G EN E VII.
Attaint Arfnoe>Cleose.
Arf. Saws'tthou them Attains make their retreat ?
Attains Ah Madam ['
Arfi. i'pealej
Atta. Ah Madam J what is done
Summes up all our preceding feares in one,. .
The Prince is fcap'd. ■
Laod. Then iWadam fear no more, ,
1'me now as generous as I was before '
Arftn. Does Attains"delight to affright me too ?
Atta. Hope not fowell, as to prelum; it to,
Wretched Arafpes IccLtiy his ill fate.
With his weak guard-no loonc-r rcach't- the Gate
Thrbugh which Fl animushad part to his fleet
But he fell wounded at the Princes feeV,
And his few followers danced at tlVat fight
Fearing the like fatb took a fpecdy flight. •
Arfia.But who, alas j coaldwdunJ htm in that-gttc?
Atta.Ten or twelve foldters3who akguatds did wait
The Prince;*— -
Arftn.Ah ton there Tray tors every where,
Few iub/e6b to their drafters faithful are,
But whence of this couldyou infofhied.be
Atta- A/of pes i'elf did1 dying tell it me.
Bur hear what only caufes my defpair,
To/:oyn me with my Father I took-earc. .
V J X r
Bat all in vain for coming to the,fnorrJ
1 law that Monarch to his fears gin p'rc.
In a lmall skiff after the R owzn flee,
Who was perhaps no kfs afraid ,th.ctT he,.
SCENE Vlir
;f " v • * j * . . - 1 ■ <■ • - • ' *
Prajias, Flamhius, Affinoe, Laodict, Attains, Cleo"e.
Pru. No, no,belci ve us yet too brave to fly*
Here wc'l defend your gloryes or we'l dye.
A' ji. Lcts dye, lets dye-fi r3 and not vitSbiiu3 be
Unto the fury of an enemy.
' l is bette r we of eur own fate difpofe
Then leave it to the Plcafure of ©nr foes"
laid. By this dilpair you that great man offend
A/uch more then when you him to would fend,
Since in my brcaft he fuchan Empire hath
You fhould believe him worthy of my Faith,
/ihduld difown him, had he not a mind
Revenge can't animate nor paflicn blind.
Did not in him all that is.gcnetcMk dwell.
But here he comes lee it.I know him Well.
SCENE LAST.
; , - ■ -i Jifv ■ / •
Prufias, NicomcdeS, ArjjW, LdtdifCletme
Nico.All's quiet fir, my fight did foon aifwage
1 he peoples fury and has balmU their rage,
Pru. Rebel in my own Pallacc. do'ff me brave
Atic*. Rebels a title 1 fhall never have:
/ come not here fir to reproach yourhari'
Like Captives grown proud with'their charge of Bate
Like a good Sub/eft 1 bring that rcpofe,
VVhich lome ill inrercfts fought to difccmpoft:
Not that 1 would a crime to Rome impute,
She greatnefs follows with a dole purfuit:
And her Ambalfador did what he ought,
When to divide our growing powers he fought
But yet fic don't aimit him to conftraini
To m ike her fear, let me your favour gain
Pardon your people, toomuch hear and rage
/n which their love to tnc did them engage.
Pardon thofe faults'thcy receffuy thought,
Faults which to you have peace and fafcety brought
Forgive them you too Madam, and let me
A vow'd admirer of your goodnefs be.
1 know what 'twas made you my foe become,
A mothers love would fain have crown'd her fon,
1 will my fclf affift in the defign,
If you can yeild he take his power from mine,
Afis,more conquefts Madam does afford.
And to crown him you may command this fword .
Cnoofe but ore what place you would have him King
And to his hands Fwill that Scepter bring.
Arfin. Ah fir ■ why do you farther preis this ftriff
Y'ave in your power my glory and my life,
Can't your ambition their receive an end,
But you'] your conqueft ore my heart extend.
Againft fuch vertue there is no defence,
My breft to yield bleeds with impatience.
Joyn then this vidory to three Kingdoms w.on
And I in you fhall gain another fon
Fru. Madam, thc-n I yeild-too, and muff bekiv."
My glories do in fuch afon revive,
But lor this happinefs which wc receive
Man't we Prince know to whom our thanks to give
Nico. The Au thor of i t would not fir be known
But took a pledge from roe,.which / muff own.
' Twas here he faid it fnould reflored be.
A'ta. Sir if you pleafe accept that pledg from nr
Nico. By this brave a&ion you beft let me know
That in your veins, true royal blood does flow
You are no more th' ambitious Have of
But the Redeemer of a Crown become
Brother with my chains others off arc throne,
The Kings, the Queens, Bjtband your own,
.
r
l
it
-
(^)
But why conceal your k lf and lave the ftatc*
To Ice- your vcrtuc at the'higheft r
I thought agtir.ft our in/uft'ee twould a<ft heft,
VVucn not by this weak ufrvi'ce ptepoffc ft,1'
And I on one of us rtvengM might be,
If 1 had/udg\l ill of what no w I ice,
But Madam (to Arfixo'e.
Jrji/7. Tis enough! now divine,
VVnat was the ftracagem you'd add to mine,
And fir my ipirits pleas d to ice my Son (to Nicofnede
His ft opt that courleofills 1 wolild have run.
Nno. Sir to be plain 1 think each generous nvnd,
toFla. S a
Might happineis in youi alliance find.
But wirh thole Laws which Rom to Kings would give
VVecanctfrom her the ftileot Friend receive,
Let us then.have it free from lTrvitutfe
O: Enemy will be a name Icfs rude.
Fla: This I muff leave fir to the Senates care
But thus much canwvrth confidence declare.
Tint at the leaft Prince youT find that refpett
Such an Heroick Ipiric can cxpeft,
And if the name of friend they carict allow,
1 hcycl think to have found in you -a worthy Foe,
Pru, Since thus our civil jarrs compofed are
To render thanks to Heaven letu?prepare
Ana that our happinefs may firm become
Fray to the Gods to grant us peace with Romt.
jO:
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a?
IfflB
F I N I S.
The End of the Fifth and
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