Ang. How now? the news?
Fath. Well, passing well, I have 'em,
Both in a leash, and made right for my purpose.
Both in a leash, and made right for my purpose.
Jul. I am glad on't, I must leave you.
Ang. Whither man?
Jul. If all go right I may be fast enough too.
Ang. I cry you mercy, Sir, I know your meaning,
Clora's the woman, she's Frank's Bedfellow,
Commend me to 'em, go, Julio,
Bring 'em to supper all, to grace this matter;
They will serve for witnesses.
Commend me to 'em, go, Julio,
Bring 'em to supper all, to grace this matter;
They will serve for witnesses.
Jul. I will, farewel.
[Exit Julio at one door, and Ang. and Fath.
at another.
SCENE II.
Enter Clora, Frank, and Frederick, and Maid.
Fred. Sister, I brought you Jacomo to the door,
He has forgot all that he said last night;
And shame of that makes him [more] loth to come,
I left Fabricio perswading him, but 'tis in vain.
He has forgot all that he said last night;
And shame of that makes him [more] loth to come,
I left Fabricio perswading him, but 'tis in vain.
Fran. Alas, my fortune, Clora.
Clor. Now Frank, see what a kind of man you love,
That loves you when he's drunk.
That loves you when he's drunk.
Fran. If so,
'Faith, I would marry him; my friends I hope
Would make him drink.
'Faith, I would marry him; my friends I hope
Would make him drink.
Clor. 'Tis well consider'd, Frank, he has such pretty humours then,
Besides, being a Souldier, 'tis better he should love
You when he's drunk, than when he's sober, for then he
Will be sure to love you the greatest part on's life.
Besides, being a Souldier, 'tis better he should love
You when he's drunk, than when he's sober, for then he
Will be sure to love you the greatest part on's life.
Fran. And were not I a happy woman then?
Clor. That ever was born, Frank, i' faith—
Fred. How now, what says he?
Enter Fabricio.
Fab. 'Faith, you may as well 'tice a Dog up with a Whip and Bell
As him, by telling him of Love and Women, he swears
They mock him.
As him, by telling him of Love and Women, he swears
They mock him.
Fred. Look how my Sister weeps.
Fab. Why, who can help it?
Fred. Yes, you may safely swear she loves him.
Fab. Why, so I did; and may do all the oaths,
Arithmetick can make, e're he believe me;
And since he was last drunk, he is more jealous
They would abuse him; if we could perswade him
She lov'd, he would embrace it.
Arithmetick can make, e're he believe me;
And since he was last drunk, he is more jealous
They would abuse him; if we could perswade him
She lov'd, he would embrace it.
Fred. She her self
Shall bate so much of her own modesty
To swear it to him, with such tears as now
You see rain from her.
Shall bate so much of her own modesty
To swear it to him, with such tears as now
You see rain from her.
Fab. I believe 'twould work,
But would you have her do't i'th' open street?
Or if you would, he'll run away from her,
How shall we get him hither?
But would you have her do't i'th' open street?
Or if you would, he'll run away from her,
How shall we get him hither?
Fred. By entreaty.
Fab. 'Tis most impossible, no, if we could
Anger him hither, as there is no way
But that to bring him, and then hold him fast,
Women, and men, whilst she delivers to him the truth
Seal'd with her tears, he would be plain
As a pleas'd Child; he walks below for me
Under the window.
Anger him hither, as there is no way
But that to bring him, and then hold him fast,
Women, and men, whilst she delivers to him the truth
Seal'd with her tears, he would be plain
As a pleas'd Child; he walks below for me
Under the window.
Clor. We'll anger him I warrant ye,
Let one of the maids take a good Bowl of water,
Or say it be a piss-pot, and pour't on's head.
Let one of the maids take a good Bowl of water,
Or say it be a piss-pot, and pour't on's head.
Fab. Content, hang me if I like not the cast of it rarely, for no question
It is an approv'd Receipt to fetch such a fellow;
Take all the women-kind in this house, betwixt the Age of one,
And one hundred, and let them take unto them a pot or a
Bowl containing seven quarts or upwards, and let them
Never leave, till the above named
Pot or Bowl become full, then let one of them stretch out
Her Arm, and pour it on his head, and probatum est, it
Will fetch him, for in his anger he will run up, and then let
Us alone.
It is an approv'd Receipt to fetch such a fellow;
Take all the women-kind in this house, betwixt the Age of one,
And one hundred, and let them take unto them a pot or a
Bowl containing seven quarts or upwards, and let them
Never leave, till the above named
Pot or Bowl become full, then let one of them stretch out
Her Arm, and pour it on his head, and probatum est, it
Will fetch him, for in his anger he will run up, and then let
Us alone.
Clor. Go you and do it. [Exit Maid.
Fran. Good Clora, no.
Clor. Away I say, & do it, never fear, we have enough of that
Water ready distill'd.
Water ready distill'd.
Fran. Why, this will make him mad, Fabricio,
He'll neither love me drunk nor sober now.
He'll neither love me drunk nor sober now.
Fab. I warrant you; what, is the wench come up?
Enter Wench.
Clor. Art thou there, wench?
Wench. I.
Fab. Look out then if thou canst see him.
Wench. Yes, I see him, and by my troth he stands so fair I could not
Hold were he my Father, his hat's off too, and he's scratching
His head.
Hold were he my Father, his hat's off too, and he's scratching
His head.
Fab. O, wash that hand I prithee.
Wench. 'Send thee good luck, this the second time I have thrown thee
Out to day, ha, ha, ha, just on's head.
Out to day, ha, ha, ha, just on's head.
Fran. Alas!
Fab. What does he now?
Wench. He gathers stones, God's light, he breaks all the Street windows.
Jac. Whores, Bawds, your windows, your windows.
Wench. Now he is breaking all the low windows with His Sword,
Excellent sport, now he's beating a fellow that laugh'd at him,
Truly the man takes it patiently; now he goes down the street
Gravely, looking on each side, there's not one more dare laugh.
Excellent sport, now he's beating a fellow that laugh'd at him,
Truly the man takes it patiently; now he goes down the street
Gravely, looking on each side, there's not one more dare laugh.
Fran. Does he go on?
Wench. Yes.
Fran. Fabricio, you have undone a Maid [Frank kneels.
By treachery; know you some other better,
You would prefer your friend to? if you do not
Bring him again, I have no other hope,
But you that made me lose hope, if you fail me,
I ne'r shall see him, but shall languish out
A discontented life, and dye contemn'd.
By treachery; know you some other better,
You would prefer your friend to? if you do not
Bring him again, I have no other hope,
But you that made me lose hope, if you fail me,
I ne'r shall see him, but shall languish out
A discontented life, and dye contemn'd.
Fab. This vexes me, I pray you be more patient, [Lifts her up.
If I have any truth, let what will happen,
I'll bring him presently, do ye all stand
At the Street door, the maids, and all, to watch
When I come back, and have some private place
To shuffle me into; for he shall follow
In fury, but I know I can out-run him
As he comes in, clap all fast hold on him;
And use your own discretions.
If I have any truth, let what will happen,
I'll bring him presently, do ye all stand
At the Street door, the maids, and all, to watch
When I come back, and have some private place
To shuffle me into; for he shall follow
In fury, but I know I can out-run him
As he comes in, clap all fast hold on him;
And use your own discretions.
Fred. We will do it.
Fab. But suddenly, for I will bring him hither
With that unstopt speed, that he shall run over
All that's in's way; and though my life be ventur'd
'Tis no great matter, I will do't.
With that unstopt speed, that he shall run over
All that's in's way; and though my life be ventur'd
'Tis no great matter, I will do't.
Fran. I thank you,
Worthy Fabricio. [Exeunt.
Worthy Fabricio. [Exeunt.
SCENE III.
Enter Jacomo.
Jac. I ever knew no woman could abide me,
But am I grown so contemptible, by being once drunk
Amongst 'em, that they begin to throw piss on my head?
For surely it was piss, huh, huh. [seem to smell.
But am I grown so contemptible, by being once drunk
Amongst 'em, that they begin to throw piss on my head?
For surely it was piss, huh, huh. [seem to smell.
Enter Fabritio.
Fab. Jacomo, how do'st thou?
Jac. Well, something troubled with waterish humours.
Fab. Foh, how thou stink'st! pre'thee stand further off me,
Me thinks these humours become thee better than thy dry
Cholerick humours, or thy wine-wet humours; ha?
Me thinks these humours become thee better than thy dry
Cholerick humours, or thy wine-wet humours; ha?
Jac. You're pleasant, but Fabritio know I am not in the mood of
Suffering jests.
Suffering jests.
Fab. If you be not i' th' mood I hope you will not be moody,
But truly I cannot blame the Gentlewomen, you stood evesdropping
Under their window, and would not come up.
But truly I cannot blame the Gentlewomen, you stood evesdropping
Under their window, and would not come up.
Jac. Sir, I suspect now, by your idle talk
Your hand was in't, which if I once believe,
Be sure you shall account to me.
Your hand was in't, which if I once believe,
Be sure you shall account to me.
Fab. The Gentlewomen and the Maids have counted to you already,
The next turn I see is mine.
The next turn I see is mine.
Jac. Let me dye but this is very strange; good Fabritio
Do not provoke me so.
Do not provoke me so.
Fab. Provoke you? you're grown the strangest fellow; there's no
Keeping company with you, phish; take you that.
Keeping company with you, phish; take you that.
Fab. gives him a box o'th' ear suddenly, and throws him
from him, and goes his way, whilst
Jaco. draws his Sword.
Jac. O all the Devils! stand Slave.
Fab. Follow me if thou dar'st.
Jac. Stay coward, stay. [Jac. runs after Fabricio.
SCENE IV.
Enter Fred, Fra, Clora, and Servant, and Maid.
Clara. Be ready for I see Fabritio running,
And Jacomo behind him.
And Jacomo behind him.
Enter Fabritio.
Fab. Where's the place?
Fred. That way Fabritio. [Exit Fabritio.
Enter Jacomo.
Fred, Clor. and Maid, lay hold on Jacomo.
Jac. Where art thou treacher,
What is the matter Sirs?
Why do you hold me? I am basely wrong'd,
Torture, and hell be with you; let me go.
What is the matter Sirs?
Why do you hold me? I am basely wrong'd,
Torture, and hell be with you; let me go.
they drag him to
a chair and hold
him down in't.
Fre. Good Jac. be patient, and but hear
What I can say, you know I am your friend,
If you yet doubt it, by my soul I am.
What I can say, you know I am your friend,
If you yet doubt it, by my soul I am.
Jac. S'death stand away;
I would my breath were poyson.
I would my breath were poyson.
Fred. As I have life, that which was thrown on you,
And this now done, were but to draw you hither
For causes weighty, that concern your self,
Void of all malice, which this Maid my Sister
Shall tell you.
And this now done, were but to draw you hither
For causes weighty, that concern your self,
Void of all malice, which this Maid my Sister
Shall tell you.
Jac. Puh, a pox upon you all; you will not hold me
For ever here, and till you let me go,
I'le talk no more.
For ever here, and till you let me go,
I'le talk no more.
Fran. As you're a Gentleman
Let not this boldness make me be believ'd
To be immodest; if there were a way
More silently to be acquainted with you,
God knows, that I would choose, but as it is
Take it in plainness: I do love you more
Than you do your content, if you refuse
To pity me, I'le never cease to weep,
And when mine eyes be out I will be told
How fast the tears I shed for you do fall,
And if they do not flow abundantly,
I'le fetch a sigh shall make 'em start, and leap,
As if the fire were under.
Let not this boldness make me be believ'd
To be immodest; if there were a way
More silently to be acquainted with you,
God knows, that I would choose, but as it is
Take it in plainness: I do love you more
Than you do your content, if you refuse
To pity me, I'le never cease to weep,
And when mine eyes be out I will be told
How fast the tears I shed for you do fall,
And if they do not flow abundantly,
I'le fetch a sigh shall make 'em start, and leap,
As if the fire were under.
Jac. Fine mocking, fine mocking.
Fred. Mocking? look how she weeps.
Jac. Do's she counterfeit crying too?
Fred. Behold how the tears flow, or pity her
Or never more be call'd a man.
Or never more be call'd a man.
Jac. How's this? soft you, soft you my Masters: is't possible think you,
She should be in earnest?
She should be in earnest?
Clo. Earnest? I in earnest: she's a fool to break so many sleeps,
That would have been sound ones, & venture such a fane, and
So much life, for e're an humorous asse i'th' world.
That would have been sound ones, & venture such a fane, and
So much life, for e're an humorous asse i'th' world.
Fra. Why Clora? I have known you cry as much
For Julio, that has not half his worth,
All night you write and weep too much I fear,
I do but what I should.
For Julio, that has not half his worth,
All night you write and weep too much I fear,
I do but what I should.
Clora. If I do write,
I am answer'd Frank.
I am answer'd Frank.
Fran. I would I might be so.
Jac. Good Frederick let me go, I would fain try
If that thing do not counterfeit.
If that thing do not counterfeit.
Fred. Give me your Sword then.
Jac. No, but take my word,
As I am man, I will not hurt a creature
Under this roof, before I have deliver'd
My self, as I am now, into your hands,
Or have your full consent.
As I am man, I will not hurt a creature
Under this roof, before I have deliver'd
My self, as I am now, into your hands,
Or have your full consent.
Fred. It is enough.
Ja. Gentlewoman, I pray you let me feel your face; I am an
Infidel, if she do not weep: Stay, where's my handkerchief?
I'le wipe the old wet off, fresh tears come, pox on't
I am a handsom, gracious fellow amongst women, and
Knew't not Gentlewoman; how should I know these tears are
For me? is not your Mother dead?
Infidel, if she do not weep: Stay, where's my handkerchief?
I'le wipe the old wet off, fresh tears come, pox on't
I am a handsom, gracious fellow amongst women, and
Knew't not Gentlewoman; how should I know these tears are
For me? is not your Mother dead?
Fran. By heaven they are for you.
Jac. 'Slight I'le have my head curl'd, and powder'd tomorrow
By break of day; if you love me, I pray you kiss me,
For if I love you, it shall be such love, as I will not be
Asham'd of, if this be a mock— [kisses.
It is the heartiest, and the sweetest mock
That e're I tasted, mock me so again— [kiss again.
By break of day; if you love me, I pray you kiss me,
For if I love you, it shall be such love, as I will not be
Asham'd of, if this be a mock— [kisses.
It is the heartiest, and the sweetest mock
That e're I tasted, mock me so again— [kiss again.
Fred. Fy Jacomo? why do you let her kneel
So long?
So long?
Jac. It's true I had forgot it— [lifts her up.
And should have done this twelve-moneth; pray you rise.
Frederick, if I could all this while have been perswaded she could
Have lov'd me, dost thou think I had not rather kiss her
Than another should? and yet you may gull me for ought
I know, but if you do, hell take me if I do not cut
All your throats sleeping.
And should have done this twelve-moneth; pray you rise.
Frederick, if I could all this while have been perswaded she could
Have lov'd me, dost thou think I had not rather kiss her
Than another should? and yet you may gull me for ought
I know, but if you do, hell take me if I do not cut
All your throats sleeping.
Fred. Oh do not think of such a thing.
Jac. Otherwise, if she be in earnest, the short is I am.
Fran. Alas, I am.
Jac. And I did not think it possible any woman
Could have lik'd this face, it's good for nothing, is't?
Could have lik'd this face, it's good for nothing, is't?
Clor. Yes it's worth forty shillings to pawn, being lin'd almost quite
Through with velvet.
Through with velvet.
Fran. 'Tis better than your Julio's.
Jac. Thou thinkest so,
But otherwise, in faith it is not Frank—
But otherwise, in faith it is not Frank—
[whilst Jacomo is kissing Frank.
Enter Fabritio.
Fab. Hist Jacomo; How do'st thou Boy? ha?
Jac. Why very well, I thank you Sir.
Fab. Do'st thou perceive the reason of matters, and passages
Yet Sirrah, or no?
Yet Sirrah, or no?
Jac. 'Tis wondrous good Sir.
Fab. I have done simply for you, but now you are beaten to some
Understanding, I pray you dally not with the Gentlewoman
But dispatch your Matrimony, with all convenient speed.
Understanding, I pray you dally not with the Gentlewoman
But dispatch your Matrimony, with all convenient speed.
Fred. He gives good counsel.
Jac. And I will follow it.
Fab. And I you, prethee do not take it unkindly,
For trust me I boxt thee for thy advancement,
A foolish desire I had to joggle thee into preferment.
For trust me I boxt thee for thy advancement,
A foolish desire I had to joggle thee into preferment.
Jac. I apprehend you Sir, and if I can study out a course
How a bastinadoing may any wayes raise your fortunes
In the State, you shall be sure on't.
How a bastinadoing may any wayes raise your fortunes
In the State, you shall be sure on't.
Fab. Oh Sir keep your way, God send you much joy.
Clora. And me my Julio.
O God I hear his voyce, now he is true,
Have at a marriage Frank, as soon as you— [Exeunt all but Fred.
O God I hear his voyce, now he is true,
Have at a marriage Frank, as soon as you— [Exeunt all but Fred.
Enter a Messenger.
Mess. Sir I would speak with you.
Fred. What is your has[t]y business friend?
Mess. The Duke commands your present attendance at Court.
Fred. The cause?
Mess. I know not in particular; but this
Many are sent for more, about affairs
Forraign I take it Sir.
Many are sent for more, about affairs
Forraign I take it Sir.
Fred. I will be there
Within this hour, return my humble service.
Within this hour, return my humble service.
Mess. I will Sir. [Exit Messenger.
Fred. Farewel friend, what new's with you?
Enter a Servant.
Ser. My Mistris would desire you Sir to follow
With all the hast you can, she is gone to Church,
To marry Captain Jacomo, and Julio
To do as much for the young merry Gentlewoman,
Fair Mistris Clora.
With all the hast you can, she is gone to Church,
To marry Captain Jacomo, and Julio
To do as much for the young merry Gentlewoman,
Fair Mistris Clora.
Fred. Julio marry Clora?
Thou art deceiv'd I warrant thee.
Thou art deceiv'd I warrant thee.
Ser. No sure Sir,
I saw their lips as close upon the bargain
As Cockles.
I saw their lips as close upon the bargain
As Cockles.
Ser. This note Sir, when you are free, will bring you where they are.
[Ex.
Fred. reads. You shall find us all at Signeur Angelo's,
Where Piso, and the worthy Leila
Of famous memory are to be married,
And we not far behind.
Would I had time
To wonder at this last couple in hell.
Where Piso, and the worthy Leila
Of famous memory are to be married,
And we not far behind.
Would I had time
To wonder at this last couple in hell.
Enter Messenger again.
Mess. You are stai'd for Sir.
Fred. I come, pray God the business
Hold me not from this sport, I would not lose it. [Exeunt.
Hold me not from this sport, I would not lose it. [Exeunt.
SCENE V.
Enter Father, Piso, Angelo, and Lelia.
Ang. God give you joy, and make you live together
A happy pair.
A happy pair.
Piso. I do not doubt we shall.
There was never poor gentleman had such a sudden fortune,
I could thrust my head betwixt two pales, and strip me out of
My old skin like a Snake: will the guests come thou saidst
Thou sentest for to solemnize the Nuptials?
There was never poor gentleman had such a sudden fortune,
I could thrust my head betwixt two pales, and strip me out of
My old skin like a Snake: will the guests come thou saidst
Thou sentest for to solemnize the Nuptials?
Fath. They will, I lookt for 'em e're this.
Enter Julio, Jacomo, Fabritio, Frank, Clora.
Jul. By your leave all.
Fath. They're here Sir.
Jul. Especially fair Lady
I ask your pardon, to whose marriage-bed
I wish all good success, I have here brought you
Such guests as can discern your happiness,
And best do know how to rejoyce at it;
For such a fortune they themselves have run,
The worthy Jacomo, and his fair Bride,
Noble Fabritio, whom this age of peace
Has not yet taught to love ought but the warrs,
And his true friends, this Lady who is but
A piece of me. [Exit Father.
I ask your pardon, to whose marriage-bed
I wish all good success, I have here brought you
Such guests as can discern your happiness,
And best do know how to rejoyce at it;
For such a fortune they themselves have run,
The worthy Jacomo, and his fair Bride,
Noble Fabritio, whom this age of peace
Has not yet taught to love ought but the warrs,
And his true friends, this Lady who is but
A piece of me. [Exit Father.
Leli. Sir, you are welcom all,
Are they not Sir?
Are they not Sir?
Piso. Bring in some wine, some of the wine Lodowick the fool
Sent hither: who ever thou bid'st welcom shall find it.
Sent hither: who ever thou bid'st welcom shall find it.
Leli. An une[x]pected honour you have done
To our too hasty wedding.
To our too hasty wedding.
Jac. Faith Madam, our weddings were as hasty as yours,
We are glad to run up and down any whither, to see where
We can get meat to our wedding.
We are glad to run up and down any whither, to see where
We can get meat to our wedding.
Piso. That Lodowick hath provided too, good Asse.
Ang. I thought you Julio would not thus have stollen a marriage
Without acquainting your friends.
Without acquainting your friends.
Jul. Why I did give thee inklings.
Ang. If a marriage should be thus stubber'd up in a play, e're almost
Any body had taken notice you were in love, the Spectators
Would take it to be but ridiculous.
Any body had taken notice you were in love, the Spectators
Would take it to be but ridiculous.
Jul. This was the first, and I will never hide
Another secret from you.
Another secret from you.
Enter Father.
Fath. Sir, yonder's your friend Lodowick, hide your self
And 'twill be the best sport—
And 'twill be the best sport—
Piso. Gentlemen, I pray you take no notice, I'm here.
The coxcomb Lodowick is coming in.
The coxcomb Lodowick is coming in.
Enter Lodowick.
Lod. Is that the Lady?
Fath. That is my Lady.
Lod. As I live she's a fair one; what make all these here?
Fath. O Lord Sir she is so pester'd—
Fab. Now will the sport be, it runs right as Julio told us.
Lod. Fair Lady health to you; some words I have, that
Require an utterance more private,
Than this place can afford.
Require an utterance more private,
Than this place can afford.
Lel. I'le call my husband,
All business I hear with his ears now.
All business I hear with his ears now.
Lod. Good Madam no, but I perceive your jest,
You have no husband, I am the very man
That walk'd the streets so comely.
You have no husband, I am the very man
That walk'd the streets so comely.
Lod. Yes faith, when Cupid first did prick your heart.
I am not cruel, but the love begun
I'th' street I'le satisfie i'th' chamber fully.
I am not cruel, but the love begun
I'th' street I'le satisfie i'th' chamber fully.
Lel. To ask a Madman whether he be mad
Were but an idle question, if you be,
I do not speak to you, but if you be not
Walk in the streets again, and there perhaps
I may dote on you, here I not endure you.
Were but an idle question, if you be,
I do not speak to you, but if you be not
Walk in the streets again, and there perhaps
I may dote on you, here I not endure you.
Lod. Good Madam stay, do not you know this Ring?
Lel. Yes it was mine, I sent it by my Man,
To change and so he did, it has a blemish,
And this he brought me for it; did you change it?
Are you a Goldsmith?
To change and so he did, it has a blemish,
And this he brought me for it; did you change it?
Are you a Goldsmith?
Lod. Sure the world is mad,
Sirrah, did you not bring me this ring from your Lady?
Sirrah, did you not bring me this ring from your Lady?
Fath. Yes surely Sir, did I, but your worship must ev'n bear with me;
For there was a mistaking in it, and so, as I was
Saying to your worship, my Lady is now married.
For there was a mistaking in it, and so, as I was
Saying to your worship, my Lady is now married.
Lod. Married? to whom?
Fa. To your worships friend Piso.
Lod. S'death to Piso?
Piso within. Ha, ha, ha.
Ang. Yes Sir I can assure you she's married to him, I saw't
With these gray eyes.
With these gray eyes.
Lod. Why what a Rogue art thou then! thou hast made
Me send in provision too.
Me send in provision too.
Fa. O a Gentleman should not have such foul words in's mouth.
But your Worships provision could not have come in at a fitter time;
Will it please you to tast any of your own wine?
It may be the Vintner has cozen'd you.
But your Worships provision could not have come in at a fitter time;
Will it please you to tast any of your own wine?
It may be the Vintner has cozen'd you.
Lod. Pox I am mad.
Ang. You have always plots Sir, and see how they fall out.
Jac. You had a plot upon me, how do you like this?
Lod. I do not speak to you.
Fab. Because you dare not.
Lod. But I will have one of that old Rogues teeth set in this Ring.
Fat. Do'st not thou know that I can beat thee?
Dost thou know it now? (discovers himself.)
Dost thou know it now? (discovers himself.)
Fat. And if you have forgot it, I can call a witness,
Come forth Piso—remember you it?
Come forth Piso—remember you it?
Piso. Faith I do call to minde such a matter.
Fat. And if I cannot still do't, you are young
And will assist your Father in law.
And will assist your Father in law.
Piso. My Father in law?
Ang. Your Father in law, as sure as this is widow Leila.
Piso. How widow Lelia?
Fat. I' faith 'tis she, Son.
Lod. Ha, ha, ha, let my provision go, I am glad I
Have mist the woman.
Have mist the woman.
Piso. Have you put a whore upon me?
Lel. By heaven you do me wrong, I have a heart
As pure as any womans, and I mean
To keep it so for ever.
As pure as any womans, and I mean
To keep it so for ever.
Fa. There is no starting now, Son, if you offer't
I can compel you, her estate is great,
But all made o're to me, before this match,
Yet if you use her kindly, as I swear
I think she will deserve, you shall enjoy it
During your life, all save some slender piece
I will reserve for my own maintenance,
And if God bless you with a child by her,
It shall have all.
I can compel you, her estate is great,
But all made o're to me, before this match,
Yet if you use her kindly, as I swear
I think she will deserve, you shall enjoy it
During your life, all save some slender piece
I will reserve for my own maintenance,
And if God bless you with a child by her,
It shall have all.
Piso. So I may have the means,
I do not much care what the woman is:
Come my sweet heart, as long as I shall find
Thy kisses sweet, and thy means plentifull,
Let people talk their tongues out.
I do not much care what the woman is:
Come my sweet heart, as long as I shall find
Thy kisses sweet, and thy means plentifull,
Let people talk their tongues out.
Lel. They may talk
Of what is past, but all that is to come
Shall be without occasions.
Of what is past, but all that is to come
Shall be without occasions.
Jul. Shall we not make Piso, and Lodowick friends?
Jac. Hang 'em they dare not be Enemies, or if they be,
The danger is not great, welcom Frederick.
The danger is not great, welcom Frederick.
Enter Frederick.
Fred. First joy unto you all; and next I think
We shall have wars.
We shall have wars.
Fab. I'le pledge.
Fran. But I shall lose you then.
Jac. Not a whit wench; I'le teach thee presently to be a Souldier.
Fred. Fabritio's command, and yours are both restor'd.
Jac. Bring me four glasses then.
Fab. Where are they?
Ang. You shall not drink 'em here, 'tis supper time,
And from my house no creature here shall stir
These three dayes, mirth shall flow as well as wine.
And from my house no creature here shall stir
These three dayes, mirth shall flow as well as wine.
Fa. Content, within I'le tell you more at large
How much I am bound to all, but most to you,
Whose undeserved liberality
Must not escape thus unrequited.
How much I am bound to all, but most to you,
Whose undeserved liberality
Must not escape thus unrequited.
Jac. 'Tis happiness to me, I did so well:
Of every noble action, the intent
Is to give worth reward, vice, punishment. [Exeunt Om.
Of every noble action, the intent
Is to give worth reward, vice, punishment. [Exeunt Om.
Prologue.
To please you with this Play, we fear will be
(So does the Author too) a mystery
Somewhat above our Art; For all mens eyes,
Ears, faiths, and judgements, are not of one size.
For to say truth, and not to flatter ye,
This is nor Comedy, nor Tragedy,
Nor History, nor any thing that may
(Yet in a week) be made a perfect Play:
Yet those that love to laugh, and those that think
Twelve pence goes farther this way than in drink,
Or Damsels, if they mark the matter through,
May stumble on a foolish toy, or two
Will make 'em shew their teeth: pray, for my sake
(That likely am your first man) do not take
A distaste before you feel it: for ye may
When this is hist to ashes, have a Play.
And here, to out-hiss this; be patient then,
(My honour done) y'are welcom Gentlemen.
(So does the Author too) a mystery
Somewhat above our Art; For all mens eyes,
Ears, faiths, and judgements, are not of one size.
For to say truth, and not to flatter ye,
This is nor Comedy, nor Tragedy,
Nor History, nor any thing that may
(Yet in a week) be made a perfect Play:
Yet those that love to laugh, and those that think
Twelve pence goes farther this way than in drink,
Or Damsels, if they mark the matter through,
May stumble on a foolish toy, or two
Will make 'em shew their teeth: pray, for my sake
(That likely am your first man) do not take
A distaste before you feel it: for ye may
When this is hist to ashes, have a Play.
And here, to out-hiss this; be patient then,
(My honour done) y'are welcom Gentlemen.
Epilogue.
If you mislike (as you shall ever be
Your own free Judges) this Play utterly,
For your own Nobleness yet do not hiss,
But as you go by, say it was amiss;
And we will mend: Chide us, but let it be
Never in cold blood: O' my honesty
(If I have any) this I'le say for all,
Our meaning was to please you still, and shall.
Your own free Judges) this Play utterly,
For your own Nobleness yet do not hiss,
But as you go by, say it was amiss;
And we will mend: Chide us, but let it be
Never in cold blood: O' my honesty
(If I have any) this I'le say for all,
Our meaning was to please you still, and shall.
THE
PROPHETESS.
A
TRAGICAL HISTORY.
Persons Represented in the Play.
- Charinus, Emperour of Rome.
- Cosroe, King of Persia.
- Diocles, of a private Souldier elected Co-Emperour.
- Maximinian, Nephew to Diocles, and Emperour by his donation.
- Volutius Aper, Murtherer of Numerianus, the late Emperour.
- Niger, a noble Souldier, Servant to the Emperour.
- Camurius, a Captain, and Creature of Aper's.
- Persian Lords.
- Senators.
- Souldiers.
- Guard.
- Suitors.
- Ambassadors.
- Lictors.
- Flamen.
- Attendants.
- Shepherd.
- Countrymen.
- Geta, a Jester, Servant to Diocles, a merry Knave.
WOMEN.
- Aurelia, Sister to Charinus.
- Cassana, Sister to Cosroe, a Captive, waiting on Aurelia.
- Delphia, a Prophetess.
- Drusilla, Niece to Delphia, in love with Diocles.
The Scene Rome.
The principal Actors were,
- John Lowin.
- Robert Benfield.
- John Shanke.
- Richard Sharpe.
- Joseph Taylor.
- Nicholas Toolie.
- George Birch.
- Thomas Holcombe.
Actus Primus. Scena Prima.
Enter Charinus, Aurelia, Niger.
Cha. You buz into my head strange likelihoods,
And fill me full of doubts; but what proofs, Niger,
What certainties, that my most noble Brother
Came to his end by murther? Tell me that,
Assure me by some circumstance.
And fill me full of doubts; but what proofs, Niger,
What certainties, that my most noble Brother
Came to his end by murther? Tell me that,
Assure me by some circumstance.
Niger. I will, Sir,
And as I tell you truth, so the gods prosper me,
I have often nam'd this Aper.
And as I tell you truth, so the gods prosper me,
I have often nam'd this Aper.
Char. True, ye have done;
And in mysterious senses I have heard ye
Break out o'th' sudden, and abruptly.
And in mysterious senses I have heard ye
Break out o'th' sudden, and abruptly.
Niger. True, Sir;
Fear of your unbelief, and the times giddiness
Made me I durst not then go farther. So your Grace please,
Out of your wonted goodness, to give credit,
I shall unfold the wonder.
Fear of your unbelief, and the times giddiness
Made me I durst not then go farther. So your Grace please,
Out of your wonted goodness, to give credit,
I shall unfold the wonder.
Aur. Do it boldly;
You shall have both our hearty loves, and hearings.
You shall have both our hearty loves, and hearings.
Niger. This Aper then, this too much honour'd Villain,
(For he deserves no mention of a good man)
Great Sir, give ear; this most ungrateful, spightful,
Above the memory of mankind, mischievous,
With his own bloody hands.
(For he deserves no mention of a good man)
Great Sir, give ear; this most ungrateful, spightful,
Above the memory of mankind, mischievous,
With his own bloody hands.
Char. Take heed.
Nig. I am in, Sir;
And if I make not good my story.
And if I make not good my story.
Aur. Forward;
I see a truth would break out; be not fearful.
I see a truth would break out; be not fearful.
Nig. I say this Aper, and his damn'd Ambition,
Cut off your Brothers hopes, his life, and fortunes;
The honour'd Numerianus fell by him,
Fell basely, most untimely, and most treacherously:
For in his Litter, as he bore him company,
Most privately and cunningly he kill'd him;
Yet still he fills the faithful Souldiers ears
With stories of his weakness, of his life,
That he dare not venture to appear in open,
And shew his warlike face among the Souldiers;
The tenderness and weakness of his eyes
Being not able to endure the Sun yet.
Slave that he is, he gives out this infirmity
(Because he would dispatch his honour too)
To arise from wantonness, and love of women,
And thus he juggles still.
Cut off your Brothers hopes, his life, and fortunes;
The honour'd Numerianus fell by him,
Fell basely, most untimely, and most treacherously:
For in his Litter, as he bore him company,
Most privately and cunningly he kill'd him;
Yet still he fills the faithful Souldiers ears
With stories of his weakness, of his life,
That he dare not venture to appear in open,
And shew his warlike face among the Souldiers;
The tenderness and weakness of his eyes
Being not able to endure the Sun yet.
Slave that he is, he gives out this infirmity
(Because he would dispatch his honour too)
To arise from wantonness, and love of women,
And thus he juggles still.
Aur. O most pernicious,
Most bloody, and most base! Alas, dear Brother,
Art thou accus'd, and after death thy memory
Loaden with shames and lies? Those pious tears
Thou daily shower'st upon my Fathers monument,
(When in the Persian Expedition
He fell unfortunately by a stroke of Thunder)
Made thy defame and sins? those wept out eyes,
The fair examples of a noble nature,
Those holy drops of Love, turn'd by depravers
(Malicious poyson'd tongues) to thy abuses?
We must not suffer this.
Most bloody, and most base! Alas, dear Brother,
Art thou accus'd, and after death thy memory
Loaden with shames and lies? Those pious tears
Thou daily shower'st upon my Fathers monument,
(When in the Persian Expedition
He fell unfortunately by a stroke of Thunder)
Made thy defame and sins? those wept out eyes,
The fair examples of a noble nature,
Those holy drops of Love, turn'd by depravers
(Malicious poyson'd tongues) to thy abuses?
We must not suffer this.
Char. It shows a truth now;
And sure this Aper is not right nor honest,
He will not [now] come near me.
And sure this Aper is not right nor honest,
He will not [now] come near me.
Nig. No, he dare not;
He has an inmate here, that's call'd a conscience,
Bids him keep off.
He has an inmate here, that's call'd a conscience,
Bids him keep off.
Char. My Brother honour'd him,
Made him first Captain of his Guard, his next friend;
Then to my Mother (to assure him nearer)
He made him Husband.
Made him first Captain of his Guard, his next friend;
Then to my Mother (to assure him nearer)
He made him Husband.
Nig. And withal ambitious;
For when he trod so nigh, his false feet itch'd, Sir,
To step into the State.
For when he trod so nigh, his false feet itch'd, Sir,
To step into the State.
Aur. If ye believe, Brother,
Aper a bloody Knave (as 'tis apparent)
Let's leave disputing, and do something noble.
Aper a bloody Knave (as 'tis apparent)
Let's leave disputing, and do something noble.
Char. Sister, be rul'd, I am not yet so powerful
To meet him in the field; he has under him
The Flower of all the Empire, and the strength,
The Britain, and the German Cohorts; pray ye be patient,
Niger, how stands the Souldier to him?
To meet him in the field; he has under him
The Flower of all the Empire, and the strength,
The Britain, and the German Cohorts; pray ye be patient,
Niger, how stands the Souldier to him?
Nig. In fear more, Sir,
Than love or honour; he has lost their fair affections,
By his most covetous and greedy griping:
Are ye desirous to do something on him,
That all the World may know ye lov'd your Brother?
And do it safely too without an Army?
Than love or honour; he has lost their fair affections,
By his most covetous and greedy griping:
Are ye desirous to do something on him,
That all the World may know ye lov'd your Brother?
And do it safely too without an Army?
Char. Most willingly.
Nig. Then send out a Proscription,
Send suddenly; And to that man that executes it
(I mean, that brings his head) add a fair payment,
No common Summ; then ye shall see I fear not,
Even from his own Camp, from those men that follow him,
Follow, and flatter him, we shall find one,
And if he miss, one hundred that will venture it.
Send suddenly; And to that man that executes it
(I mean, that brings his head) add a fair payment,
No common Summ; then ye shall see I fear not,
Even from his own Camp, from those men that follow him,
Follow, and flatter him, we shall find one,
And if he miss, one hundred that will venture it.
Aur. For his reward, it shall be so, dear Brother,
So far I'll honour him that kills the Villain;
For so far runs my love to my dead Brother,
Let him be what he will, base, old, or crooked,
He shall have me; nay, which is more, I'll love him.
I will not be deny'd.
So far I'll honour him that kills the Villain;
For so far runs my love to my dead Brother,
Let him be what he will, base, old, or crooked,
He shall have me; nay, which is more, I'll love him.
I will not be deny'd.
Char. You shall not, Sister;
But ye shall know, my love shall go along too;
See a Proscription drawn; and for his recompence,
My Sister, and half Partner in the Empire;
And I will keep my word.
But ye shall know, my love shall go along too;
See a Proscription drawn; and for his recompence,
My Sister, and half Partner in the Empire;
And I will keep my word.
Aur. Now ye do bravely.
Nig. And though it cost my life, I'll see it publish'd.
Char. Away then for the business.
Nig. I am gone, Sir;
You shall have all dispatch'd to night.
You shall have all dispatch'd to night.
Char. Be prosperous.
Aur. And let the Villain fall.
Nig. Fear nothing, Madam. [Exeunt.
SCENE II.
Enter Delphia, and Drusilla.