Title: Beaumont and Fletcher's Works, Vol. 02 of 10: the Humourous Lieutenant
Author: John Fletcher
Francis Beaumont
Editor: Arnold Glover
Release date: April 1, 2004 [eBook #12040]
Most recently updated: December 14, 2020
Language: English
Credits: Produced by Jonathan Ingram, Charles M. Bidwell and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team
Produced by Jonathan Ingram, Charles M. Bidwell and the Online
Distributed Proofreading Team.
Persons Represented in the Play.
King Antigonus, an old Man with young desires.
Demetrius, Son to Antigonus, in love with Celia.
Seleucus, Lysimachus, Ptolomie, Three Kings equal sharers with
Antigonus of what Alexander had, with united powers opposing
Antigonus.
Leontius, a brave old merry Souldier, assistant to Demetrius.
Timon, Charinthus, Menippus, Servants to Antigonus, and his vices.
The Humourous Lieutenant.
Gentlemen, Friends and followers of Demetrius.
_3 Embassadors, from the three Kings.
Gentlemen-Ushers._
Grooms.
Citizens.
Physicians.
Herald.
Magician.
Souldiers.
Host.
Celia alias E[n]anthe, Daughter to Seleucus, Mistris to Demetrius.
Leucippe, a Bawd, Agent for the King's lust.
Ladies.
Citizens Wives.
Governesse to Celia.
A Country-Woman.
Phoebe, her Daughter.
2 Servants of the game.
The Scene Greece.
The principal Actors were,
Henry Condel. John Lowin. Richard Sharpe. Robert Benfeild. Joseph Taylor. William Eglestone. John Underwood. Thomas Polard.
Enter 2 Ushers, and Grooms with perfumes.
1 Usher. Round, round, perfume it round, quick, look ye Diligently the state be right, are these the richest Cushions? Fie, fie, who waits i'th' wardrobe?
2 Ush. But pray tell me, do you think for certain These Embassadours shall have this morning audience?
1 Ush. They shall have it: Lord that you live at Court And understand not! I tell you they must have it.
2 Ush. Upon what necessity?
1 Ush. Still you are out of the trick of Court, sell your place,
Enter Ladies and Gentlemen.
And sow your grounds, you are not for this tillage.
Madams, the best way is the upper lodgings,
There you may see at ease.
Ladies. We thank you, Sir. [Ex. Ladies, Gent.
1 Ush. Would you have all these slighted? who should report then,
The Embassadors were handsome men? his beard
A neat one? the fire of his eyes quicker than lightning,
And when it breaks, as blasting? his legs, though little ones,
Yet movers of a mass of understanding?
Who shall commend their Cloaths? who shall take notice
Of the most wise behaviour of their Feathers?
Ye live a raw man here.
2 Ush. I think I do so.
Enter 2 citizens, and Wives.
1 Ush. Why, whither would ye all press?
1 Cit. Good Master Usher.
2 Cit. My wife, and some few of my honest neighbours, here.
1 Ush. Prethee begone thou and thy honest Neighbours, Thou lookst like an Ass, why, whither would you fish face?
2 Cit. If I might have
But the honour to see you at my poor house, Sir,
A Capon bridled and sadled, I'le assure your worship,
A shoulder of Mutton and a pottle of Wine, Sir,
I know your Brother, he was like ye,
And shot the best at Buts—
1 Ush. A —— upon thee.
2 Cit. Some Musick I'le assure you too, My toy, Sir, can play o'th' Virginals.
1 Ush. Prethee good toy,
Take away thy shoulder of Mutton, it is flie-blown,
And shoulder take thy flap along, here's no place for ye;
Nay then you had best be knock'd. [Ex. Cit.
Enter Celia.
Cel. I wou'd fain see him,
The glory of this place makes me remember,
But dye those thoughts, dye all but my desires,
Even those to death are sick too; he's not here,
Nor how my eyes may guide me—
1 Ush. What's your business? Who keeps the outward door there? here's fine shuffling, You wastcoateer you must go back.
Cel. There is not,
There cannot be, six days and never see me?
There must not be desire; Sir, do you think
That if you had a Mistris—
1 Ush. Death, she is mad.
Cel. And were yourself an honest man? it cannot—
1 Ush. What a Devil hast thou to do with me or my honesty? Will you be jogging, good nimble tongue, My fellow door-keeper.
2 Ush. Prethee let her alone,
1 Ush. The King is coming, And shall we have an agent from the Suburbs Come to crave audience too?
Cel. Before I thought ye
To have a little breeding, some tang of Gentry;
But now I take ye plainly,
Without the help of any perspective,
For that ye cannot alter.
1 Ush. What's that?
Cel. An Ass, Sir, you bray as like one,
And by my troth, me thinks as ye stand now,
Considering who to kick next, you appear to me
Just with that kind of gravity, and wisdom;
Your place may bear the name of Gentleman,
But if ever any of that butter stick to your bread—
2 Ush. You must be modester.
Cel. Let him use me nobler,
And wear good Cloaths to do good Offices;
They hang upon a fellow of his vertue,
As though they hung on Gibbets.
2 Ush. A perillous wench.
1 Ush. Thrust her into a corner, I'le no more on her.
2 Ush. You have enough, go pretty Maid, stand close, And use that little tongue, with a little more temper.
Cel. I thank ye, Sir.
2 Ush. When the show's past,
I'le have ye into the Cellar, there we'll dine.
A very pretty wench, a witty Rogue,
And there we'll be as merry; can ye be merry?
Cel. O very merry.
2 Ush. Only our selves; this churlish fellow shall not know.
Cel. By no means.
2 Ush. And can you love a little?
Cel. Love exceedingly: I have cause to love you, dear Sir.
2 Ush. Then I'le carry ye,
And shew you all the pictures, and the hangings,
The Lodgings, Gardens, and the walks: and then, sweet,
You shall tell me where you lye.
Cel. Yes marry will I.
2 Ush. And't shall go hard but I'le send ye a Venison Pasty, And bring a bottle of wine along.
1 Ush. Make room there,
2 Ush. Room there afore; stand close, the train is coming.
Enter King Antigonus, Timon, Charinthus, Menippus.
Cel. Have I yet left a beauty to catch fools? Yet, yet, I see him not. O what a misery Is love, expected long, deluded longer!
Ant. Conduct in the Embassadors.
1 Ush. Make room there.
Ant. They shall not wait long answer— [Flourish.
Cle. Yet he comes not.
Enter 3 Embassadors.
Why are eyes set on these, and multitudes
Follow to make these wonders? O good gods!
What would these look like if my love were here?
But I am fond, forgetful.
Ant. Now your grievance, Speak short, and have as short dispatch.
1 Emb. Then thus, Sir:
In all our Royal Masters names, We tell you,
Ye have done injustice, broke the bonds of concord,
And from their equal shares, from Alexander
Parted, and so possess'd, not like a Brother,
But as an open Enemy, Ye have hedged in
Whole Provinces, man'd and maintain'd these injuries;
And daily with your sword (though they still honour ye)
Make bloudy inroads, take Towns, and ruin Castles,
And still their sufFerance feels the weight.
2 Em. Think of that love, great Sir, that honor'd friendship
Your self held with our Masters, think of that strength
When you were all one body, all one mind;
When all your swords struck one way, when your angers,
Like so many brother Billows rose together,
And curling up your foaming Crests, defied
Even mighty Kings, and in their falls entomb'd 'em;
O think of these; and you that have been Conquerours,
That ever led your Fortunes open ey'd,
Chain'd fast by confidence; you that fame courted,
Now ye want Enemies and men to match ye,
Let not your own Swords seek your ends to shame ye.
Enter Demetrius with a Javelin, and Gentlemen.
3 Em. Choose which you will, or Peace or War, We come prepar'd for either.
1 Ush. Room for the Prince there.
Cel. Was it the Prince they said? how my heart trembled!
'Tis he indeed; what a sweet noble fierceness
Dwells in his eyes! young Meleager like,
When he return'd from slaughter of the Boar,
Crown'd with the loves and honours of the people,
With all the gallant youth of Greece, he looks now,
Who could deny him love?
Dem. Hail Royal Father.
Ant. Ye are welcome from your sport, Sir, do you see this Gent.
You that bring Thunders in your mouths, and Earthquakes
To shake and totter my designs? can you imagine
(You men of poor and common apprehensions)
While I admit this man, my Son, this nature
That in one look carries more fire, and fierceness,
Than all your Masters in their lives; dare I admit him,
Admit him thus, even to my side, my bosom,
When he is fit to rule, when all men cry him,
And all hopes hang about his head; thus place him,
His weapon hatched in bloud, all these attending
When he shall make their fortunes, all as sudden
In any expedition he shall point 'em,
As arrows from a Tartars bow, and speeding,
Dare I do this, and fear an enemy?
Fear your great Master? yours? or yours?
Dem. O Hercules!
Who saies you do, Sir? Is there any thing
In these mens faces, or their Masters actions,
Able to work such wonders?
Cel. Now he speaks: O I could dwell upon that tongue for ever.
Dem. You call 'em Kings, they never wore those Royalties,
Nor in the progress of their lives arriv'd yet
At any thought of King: Imperial dignities,
And powerful God-like actions, fit for Princes
They can no more put on, and make 'em sit right,
Than I can with this mortal hand hold Heaven:
Poor petty men, nor have I yet forgot
The chiefest honours time, and merit gave 'em:
Lisimachus your Master, at the best,
His highest, and his hopeful'st Dignities
Was but grand-master of the Elephants;
Seleuchus of the Treasure; and for Ptolomey,
A thing not thought on then, scarce heard of yet,
Some Master of Ammunition: and must these men—
Cel. What a brave confidence flows from his spirit! O sweet young man!
Dem. Must these, hold pace with us,
And on the same file hang their memories?
Must these examine what the wills of Kings are?
Prescribe to their designs, and chain their actions
To their restraints? be friends, and foes when they please?
Send out their Thunders, and their menaces,
As if the fate of mortal things were theirs?
Go home good men, and tell your Masters from us,
We do 'em too much honour to force from 'em
Their barren Countries, ruin their vast Cities,
And tell 'em out of love, we mean to leave 'em
(Since they will needs be Kings) no more to tread on,
Than they have able wits, and powers to manage,
And so we shall befriend 'em. Ha! what does she there?
Emb. This is your answer King?
Ant. 'Tis like to prove so.
Dem. Fie, sweet, what makes you here?
Cel. Pray ye do not chide me.
Dem. You do your self much wrong and me.
I feel my fault which only was committed
Through my dear love to you: I have not seen ye,
And how can I live then? I have not spoke to ye—
Dem. I know this week ye have not; I will redeem all. You are so tender now; think where you are, sweet.
Cel. What other light have I left?
Dem. Prethee Celia, Indeed I'le see you presently.
Cel. I have done, Sir: You will not miss?
Dem. By this, and this, I will not.
Cel. 'Tis in your will and I must be obedient.
Dem. No more of these assemblies.
Cel. I am commanded.
1 Ush. Room for the Lady there: Madam, my service—
1 Gent. My Coach an't please you Lady.
2 Ush. Room before there.
2 Gent. The honour, Madam, but to wait upon you— My servants and my state.
Cel. Lord, how they flock now!
Before I was afraid they would have beat me;
How these flies play i'th' Sun-shine! pray ye no services,
Or if ye needs must play the Hobby-horses,
Seek out some beauty that affects 'em: farewel,
Nay pray ye spare: Gentlemen I am old enough
To go alone at these years, without crutches. [Exit.
2 Ush. Well I could curse now: but that will not help me,
I made as sure account of this wench now, immediately,
Do but consider how the Devil has crost me,
Meat for my Master she cries, well—
3 Em. Once more, Sir, We ask your resolutions: Peace or War yet?
Dem. War, War, my noble Father.
1 Em. Thus I fling it: And fair ey'd peace, farewel.
Ant. You have your answer; Conduct out the Embassadours, and give 'em Convoyes.
Dem. Tell your high hearted Masters, they shall not seek us,
Nor cool i'th' field in expectation of us,
We'l ease your men those marches: In their strengths,
And full abilities of mind and courage,
We'l find 'em out, and at their best trim buckle with 'em.
3 Em. You will find so hot a Souldier's welcome, Sir, Your favour shall not freeze.
2 Em. A forward Gentleman, Pity the Wars should bruise such hopes—
Ant. Conduct em— [Ex. Em.
Now, for this preparation: where's Leontius?
Call him in presently: for I mean in person Gentlemen
My self, with my old fortune—
Dem. Royal Sir:
Thus low I beg this honour: fame already
Hath every where rais'd Trophies to your glory,
And conquest now grown old, and weak with following
The weary marches and the bloody shocks
You daily set her in: 'tis now scarce honour
For you that never knew to fight, but conquer,
To sparkle such poor people: the Royal Eagle
When she hath tri'd [h]er young ones 'gainst the Sun,
And found 'em right; next teacheth 'em to prey,
How to command on wing, and check below her
Even Birds of noble plume; I am your own, Sir,
You have found my spirit, try it now, and teach it
To stoop whole Kingdoms: leave a little for me:
Let not your glory be so greedy, Sir,
To eat up all my hopes; you gave me life,
If to that life you add not what's more lasting
A noble name, for man, you have made a shadow:
Bless me this day: bid me go on, and lead,
Bid me go on, no less fear'd, than Antigonus,
And to my maiden sword, tye fast your fortune:
I know 'twill fight it self then: dear Sir, honour me:
Never fair Virgin long'd so.
Ant. Rise, and command then,
And be as fortunate, as I expect ye:
I love that noble will; your young companions
Bred up and foster'd with ye, I hope Demetrius,
You will make souldiers too: they must not leave ye.
Enter Leontius.
2 Gent. Never till life leave us, Sir.
Ant. O Leontius, Here's work for you in hand.
Leon. I am ev'n right glad, Sir. For by my troth, I am now grown old with idleness; I hear we shall abroad, Sir.
Ant. Yes, and presently, But who think you commands now?
Leon. Who commands, Sir?
Methinks mine eye should guide me: can there be
(If you your self will spare him so much honour)
Any found out to lead before your Armies,
So full of faith, and fire, as brave Demetrius?
King Philips Son, at his years was an old Souldier,
'Tis time his Fortune be o' wing, high time, Sir,
So many idle hours, as here he loyters,
So many ever-living names he loses,
I hope 'tis he.
Ant. 'Tis he indeed, and nobly
He shall set forward: draw you all those Garrisons
Upon the frontiers as you pass: to those
Joyn these in pay at home, our ancient souldiers,
And as you go press all the Provinces.
Leo. We shall not [need];
Believe, this hopefull Gentleman
Can want no swords, nor honest hearts to follow him,
We shall be full, no fear Sir.
Ant. You Leontius,
Because you are an old and faithfull servant,
And know the wars, with all his vantages,
Be near to his instructions, lest his youth
Lose valours best companion, staid discretion,
Shew where to lead, to lodge, to charge with safetie;
In execution not to break, nor scatter,
But with a provident anger, follow nobly:
Not covetous of blood, and death, but honour,
Be ever near his watches; cheer his labours,
And where his hope stands fair, provoke his valour;
Love him, and think it no dishonour (my Demetrius)
To wear this Jewel near thee; he is a tri'd one,
And one that even in spight of time, that sunk him,
And frosted up his strength, will yet stand by thee,
And with the proudest of thine Enemies
Exchange for bloud, and bravely: take his Counsel.
Leo. Your grace hath made me young again, and wanton.
Ant. She must be known and suddenly: Do ye know her? [to Minippus.
Gent. Char. No, believe Sir.
Ant. Did you observe her, Timon?
Tim. I look'd on her, But what she is—
Ant. I must have that found. Come in and take your leave.
Tim. And some few Prayers along.
Dem. I know my duty, [Exit Ant. You shall be half my Father.
Leo. All your Servant: Come Gentlemen, you are resolv'd I am sure To see these wars.
1 Gent. We dare not leave his fortunes, Though most assur'd death hung round about us.
Leo..= That bargain's yet to make;
Be not too hasty, when ye face the Enemie,
Nor too ambitious to get honour instantly,
But charge within your bounds, and keep close bodies,
And you shall see what sport we'l make these mad-caps;
You shall have game enough, I warrant ye,
Every mans Cock shall fight.
Dem. I must go see Sir:
Brave Sir, as soon as I have taken leave,
I'le meet you in the park;
Draw the men thither,
Wait you upon Leontius.
Gen. We'l attend Sir.
Leo. But I beseech your Grace, with speed; the sooner We are i'th' field.—
Dem. You could not please me better. [Exit.
Leo. You never saw the wars yet?
Gent. Not yet Colonel.
Leo. These foolish Mistresses do so hang about ye,
So whimper, and so hug, I know it Gentlemen,
And so intice ye, now ye are i'th' bud;
And that sweet tilting war, with eyes and kisses,
Th' alarms of soft vows, and sighs, and fiddle faddles,
Spoils all our trade: you must forget these knick knacks,
A woman at some time of year, I grant ye
She is necessarie; but make no business of her.
How now Lieutenant?
Enter Lieutenant.
Lieu. Oh Sir, as ill as ever; We shall have wars they say; they are mustring yonder: Would we were at it once: fie, how it plagues me.
Leo. Here's one has served now under Captain Cupid, And crackt a Pike in's youth: you see what's come on't.
Lieu. No, my disease will never prove so honourable.
Leo. Why sure, thou hast the best pox.
Lieu. If I have 'em, I am sure I got 'em in the best company; They are pox of thirty Coats.
Leo. Thou hast mewed 'em finely:
Here's a strange fellow now, and a brave fellow,
If we may say so of a pocky fellow,
(Which I believe we may) this poor Lieutenant;
Whether he have the scratches, or the scabs,
Or what a Devil it be, I'le say this for him,
There fights no braver souldier under Sun, Gentlemen;
Show him an Enemie, his pain's forgot straight;
And where other men by beds and bathes have ease,
And easie rules of Physick; set him in a danger,
A danger, that's a fearfull one indeed,
Ye rock him, and he will so play about ye,
Let it be ten to one he ne'er comes off again,
Ye have his heart: and then he works it bravely,
And throughly bravely: not a pang remembre'd:
I have seen him do such things, belief would shrink at.
Gent. 'Tis strange he should do all this, and diseas'd so.
Leo. I am sure 'tis true: Lieutenant, canst thou drink well?
Lieu. Would I were drunk, dog-drunk, I might not feel this backward?
Gent. I would take Physick.
Lieu. But I would know my disease first.
Leon. Why? it may be the Colique: canst thou blow
Lieu. There's never a bag-pipe in the Kingdom better.
Gent. Is't not a pleuresie?
Lieu. 'Tis any thing That has the Devil, and death in't: will ye march Gentlemen? The Prince has taken leave.
Leo. How know ye that?
Lieu. I saw him leave the Court, dispatch his followers,
And met him after in a by street: I think
He has some wench, or such a toy, to lick over
Before he go: would I had such another
To draw this foolish pain down.
Leo. Let's away Gentlemen, For sure the Prince will stay on us.
Gent. We'l attend Sir. [Exeunt.
Enter Demetrius, and Celia.
Cel. Must ye needs go?
Dem. Or stay with all dishonour.
Cel. Are there not men enough to fight?
Dem. Fie Celia. This ill becomes the noble love you bear me; Would you have your love a coward?
Cel. No; believe Sir, I would have him fight, but not so far off from me.
Dem. Wouldst have it thus? or thus?
Cel. If that be fighting—
Dem. Ye wanton fool: when I come home again I'le fight with thee, at thine own weapon Celia, And conquer thee too.
Cel. That you have done already, You need no other Arms to me, but these Sir; But will you fight your self Sir?
Dem. Thus deep in bloud wench, And through the thickest ranks of Pikes.
Cel. Spur bravely Your firie Courser, beat the troops before ye, And cramb the mouth of death with executions.
Dem. I would do more than these: But prethee tell me, Tell me my fair, where got'st thou this male Spirit? I wonder at thy mind.
Cel. Were I a man then, You would wonder more.
Dem. Sure thou wouldst prove a Souldier, And some great Leader.
Cel. Sure I should do somewhat; And the first thing I did, I should grow envious, Extreamly envious of your youth, and honour.
Dem. And fight against me?
Cel. Ten to one, I should do it.
Dem. Thou wouldst not hurt me?
Cel. In this mind I am in I think I should be hardly brought to strike ye, Unless 'twere thus; but in my mans mind—
Dem. What?
Cel. I should be friends with you too, Now I think better.
Dem. Ye are a tall Souldier:
Here, take these, and these;
This gold to furnish ye, and keep this bracelet;
Why do you weep now?
You a masculine Spirit?
Cel. No, I confess, I am a fool, a woman: And ever when I part with you—
Dem. You shall not, These tears are like prodigious signs, my sweet one, I shall come back, loaden with fame, to honour thee.
Cel. I hope you shall:
But then my dear Demetrius,
When you stand Conquerour, and at your mercy
All people bow, and all things wait your sentence;
Say then your eye (surveying all your conquest)
Finds out a beautie, even in sorrow excellent,
A constant face, that in the midst of ruine
With a forc'd smile, both scorns at fate, and fortune:
Say you find such a one, so nobly fortified,
And in her figure all the sweets of nature?
Dem. Prethee, No more of this, I cannot find her.
Cel. That shews as far beyond my wither'd beauty; And will run mad to love ye too.
Dem. Do you fear me, And do you think, besides this face, this beauty, This heart, where all my hopes are lock'd—
Cel. I dare not: No sure, I think ye honest; wondrous honest. Pray do not frown, I'le swear ye are.
Dem. Ye may choose.
Cel. But how long will ye be away?
Dem. I know not.
Cel. I know you are angry now: pray look upon me: I'le ask no more such questions.
Dem. The Drums beat, I can no longer stay.
Cel. They do but call yet: How fain you would leave my Company?
Dem. I wou'd not, Unless a greater power than love commanded, Commands my life, mine honour.
Cel. But a little.
Dem. Prethee farewel, and be not doubtfull of me.
Cel. I would not have ye hurt: and ye are so ventrous—
But good sweet Prince preserve your self, fight nobly,
But do not thrust this body, 'tis not yours now,
'Tis mine, 'tis only mine: do not seek wounds, Sir,
For every drop of blood you bleed—
Dem. I will Celia, I will be carefull.
Cel. My heart, that loves ye dearly.
Dem. Prethee no more, we must part: [Drums a March. Hark, they march now.
Cel. Pox on these bawling Drums: I am sure you'l kiss me, But one kiss? what a parting's this?
Dem. Here take me,
And do what thou wilt with me, smother me;
But still remember, if your fooling with me,
Make me forget the trust—
Cel. I have done: farewel Sir, Never look back, you shall not stay, not a minute.
Dem. I must have one farewel more.
Cel. No, the Drums beat; I dare not slack your honour; not a hand more, Only this look; the gods preserve, and save ye.
Enter Antigonus, Carinthus, Timon.
Ant. What, have ye found her out?
Char. We have hearkned after her.
Ant. What's that to my desire?
Char. Your grace must give us time, And a little means.
Tim. She is sure a stranger, If she were bred or known here—
Ant. Your dull endeavours Enter Menippus. Should never be employ'd. Welcom Menippus.
Men. I have found her Sir, I mean the place she is lodg'd in; her name is Celia, And much adoe I had to purchase that too.
Ant. Dost think Demetrius loves her?
Men. Much I fear it, But nothing that way yet can win for certain. I'le tell your grace within this hour.
Ant. A stranger?
Men. Without all doubt.
Ant. But how should he come to her?
Men. There lies the marrow of the matter hid yet.
Ant. Hast thou been with thy wife?
Men. No Sir, I am going to her.
Ant. Go and dispatch, and meet me in the garden, And get all out ye can. [Exit.
Men. I'le doe my best Sir. [Exit.
Tim. Blest be thy wife, thou wert an arrant ass else.
Char. I, she is a stirring woman indeed: There's a brain Brother.
Tim. There's not a handsom wench of any mettle
Within an hundred miles, but her intelligence
Reaches her, and out-reaches her, and brings her
As confidently to Court, as to a sanctuary:
What had his mouldy brains ever arriv'd at,
Had not she beaten it out o'th' Flint to fasten him?
They say she keeps an office of Concealments:
There is no young wench, let her be a Saint,
Unless she live i'th' Center, but she finds her,
And every way prepares addresses to her:
If my wife would have followed her course Charinthus,
Her lucky course, I had the day before him:
O what might I have been by this time, Brother?
But she (forsooth) when I put these things to her,
These things of honest thrift, groans, O my conscience,
The load upon my conscience, when to make us cuckolds,
They have no more burthen than a brood-[goose], Brother;
But let's doe what we can, though this wench fail us,
Another of a new way will be lookt at:
Come, let's abroad, and beat our brains, time may
For all his wisdom, yet give us a day. [Exeunt.
Drum within, Alarm, Enter Demetrius, and Leontius.
Dem. I will not see 'em fall thus, give me way Sir, I shall forget you love me else.
Leo. Will ye lose all?
For me to be forgotten, to be hated,
Nay never to have been a man, is nothing,
So you, and those we have preserv'd from slaughter
Come safely off.
Dem. I have lost my self.
Leo. You are cozen'd.
Dem. And am most miserable.
Leo. There's no man so, but he that makes himself so.
Dem. I will goe on.
Leo. You must not: I shall tell you then,
And tell you true, that man's unfit to govern,
That cannot guide himself: you lead an Army?
That have not so much manly suff'rance left ye,
To bear a loss?
Dem. Charge but once more Leontius, My friends and my companions are engag'd all.
Leo. Nay give 'em lost, I saw 'em off their horses, And the enemy master of their Arms; nor could then The policie, nor strength of man redeem 'em.
Dem. And shall I know this, and stand fooling?
Leo. By my dead Fathers soul you stir not, Sir, Or if you doe, you make your way through me first.
Dem. Thou art a Coward.
Leo. To prevent a Madman.
None but your Fathers Son, durst call me so,
'Death if he did—Must I be scandal'd by ye,
That hedg'd in all the helps I had to save ye?
That, where there was a valiant weapon stirring,
Both search'd it out, and singl'd it, unedg'd it,
For fear it should bite you, am I a coward?
Go, get ye up, and tell 'em ye are the Kings Son;
Hang all your Ladys favours on your Crest,
And let them fight their shares; spur to destruction,
You cannot miss the way: be bravely desperate,
And your young friends before ye, that lost this battel,
Your honourable friends, that knew no order,
Cry out, Antigonus, the old Antigonus,
The wise and fortunate Antigonus,
The great, the valiant, and the fear'd Antigonus,
Has sent a desperate son, without discretion
To bury in an hour his age of honour.
Dem. I am ashamed.
Leo. 'Tis ten to one, I die with ye:
The coward will not long be after ye;
I scorn to say I saw you fall, sigh for ye,
And tell a whining tale, some ten years after
To boyes and girles in an old chimney corner,
Of what a Prince we had, how bravely spirited;
How young and fair he fell: we'l all go with ye,
And ye shall see us all, like sacrifices
In our best trim, fill up the mouth of ruine.
Will this faith satisfie your folly? can this show ye
'Tis not to die we fear, but to die poorly,
To fall, forgotten, in a multitude?
If you will needs tempt fortune now she has held ye,
Held ye from sinking up.
Dem. Pray do not kill me, These words pierce deeper than the wounds I suffer, The smarting wounds of loss.
Leo. Ye are too tender;
Fortune has hours of loss, and hours of honour,
And the most valiant feel them both: take comfort,
The next is ours, I have a soul descries it:
The angry bull never goes back for breath
But when he means to arm his fury double.
Let this day set, but not the memorie,
And we shall find a time: How now Lieutenant?
Enter Lieutenant.
Lieu. I know not: I am mall'd: we are bravely beaten, All our young gallants lost.
Leo. Thou art hurt.
Lieu. I am pepper'd,
I was i'th' midst of all: and bang'd of all hands:
They made an anvile of my head, it rings yet;
Never so thresh'd: do you call this fame? I have fam'd it;
I have got immortal fame, but I'le no more on't;
I'le no such scratching Saint to serve hereafter;
O' my conscience I was kill'd above twenty times,
And yet I know not what a Devil's in't,
I crawled away, and lived again still; I am hurt plaguily,
But now I have nothing near so much pain Colonel,
They have sliced me for that maladie.
Dem. All the young men lost?
Lie. I am glad you are here: but they are all i'th' pound sir,
They'l never ride o're other mens corn again, I take it,
Such frisking, and such flaunting with their feathers,
And such careering with their Mistres favours;
And here must he be pricking out for honour,
And there got he a knock, and down goes pilgarlick,
Commends his soul to his she-saint, and Exit.
Another spurs in there, cryes make room villains,
I am a Lord, scarce spoken, but with reverence
A Rascal takes him o're the face, and fells him;
There lyes the Lord, the Lord be with him.
Leo. Now Sir, Do you find this truth?
Dem. I would not.
Lieu. Pox upon it, They have such tender bodies too; such Culisses, That one good handsom blow breaks 'em a pieces.
Leo. How stands the Enemy?
Lieu. Even cool enough too: For to say truth he has been shrewdly heated, The Gentleman no doubt will fall to his jewlips.
Leo. He marches not i'th' tail on's.
Lieu. No, plague take him,
He'l kiss our tails as soon; he looks upon us,
As if he would say, if ye will turn again, friends,
We will belabor you a little better,
And beat a little more care into your coxcombs.
Now shall we have damnable Ballads out against us,
Most wicked madrigals: and ten to one, Colonel,
Sung to such lowsie, lamentable tunes.
Leo. Thou art merry,
How e're the game goes: good Sir be not troubled,
A better day will draw this back again.
Pray go, and cheer those left, and lead 'em off,
They are hot, and weary.
Dem. I'le doe any thing.
Leo. Lieutenant, send one presently away
To th' King, and let him know our state: and hark ye,
Be sure the messenger advise his Majestie
To comfort up the Prince: he's full of sadness.
Lieu. When shall I get a Surgeon? this hot weather, Unless I be well pepper'd, I shall stink, Colonel.
Leo. Go, I'le prepare thee one.
Lieu. If ye catch me then, Fighting again, I'le eat hay with a horse. [Exit.
Enter Leucippe (reading) and two Maids at a Table writing.
Leu. Have ye written to Merione?
1 Ma. Yes, Madam.
Leu. And let her understand the hopes she has, If she come speedilie—
1 Ma. All these are specified.
Leu. And of the chain is sent her, And the rich stuff to make her shew more handsom here?
1 Maid. All this is done, Madam.
Leu. What have you dispatcht there?
2 Maid. A letter to the Country maid, and't please ye.
Leu. A pretty girle, but peevish, plaguy peevish: Have ye bought the embroydered gloves, and that purse for her, And the new Curle?
2 Maid. They are ready packt up Madam.
Leu. Her maiden-head will yield me; let me see now;
She is not fifteen they say: for her complexion—
Cloe, Cloe, Cloe, here, I have her,
Cloe, the Daughter of a Country Gentleman;
Her age upon fifteen: now her complexion,
A lovely brown; here 'tis; eyes black and rolling,
The body neatly built: she strikes a Lute well,
Sings most inticingly, these helps consider'd,
Her maiden-head will amount to some three hundred,
Or three hundred and fifty Crowns, 'twill bear it handsomly.
Her Father's poor, some little share deducted,
To buy him a hunting Nag; I, 'twill be pretty.
Who takes care of the Merchants Wife?
1 Ma. I have wrought her.
Leu. You know for whom she is?
1 Ma. Very well, Madam, Though very much ado I had to make her Apprehend that happiness.
Leu. These Kind are subtile; Did she not cry and blubber when you urg'd her?
1 Ma. O most extreamly, and swore she would rather perish.
Leu. Good signs, very good signs, Symptoms of easie nature. Had she the Plate?
1 Ma. She lookt upon't, and left it, And turn'd again, and view'd it.
Leu. Very well still.
1 Ma. At length she was content to let it lye there, Till I call'd for't, or so.
Leu. She will come?
1 Ma. Do you take me For such a Fool, I would part without that promise?
Leu. The Chamber's next the Park.
1 Ma. The Widow, Madam, You bad me look upon.
Leu. Hang her, she is musty: She is no mans meat; besides, she's poor and sluttish: Where lyes old Thisbe now, you are so long now—
2 Ma. Thisbe, Thisbe, Thisbe, agent Thisbe, O I have her, She lyes now in Nicopolis.
Leu. Dispatch a Packet,
And tell her, her Superiour here commands her
The next month not to fail, but see deliver'd
Here to our use, some twenty young and handsom,
As also able Maids, for the Court service,
As she will answer it: we are out of beauty,
Utterly out, and rub the time away here
With such blown stuff, I am asham'd to send it. [Knock within
Who's that? look out, to your business, Maid,
There's nothing got by idleness: there is a Lady,
Which if I can but buckle with, Altea,
A, A, A, A, Altea young, and married,
And a great lover of her husband, well,
Not to be brought to Court! say ye so? I am sorry,
The Court shall be brought to you then; how now, who is't?
1 Ma. An ancient woman, with a maid attending, A pretty Girl, but out of Cloaths; for a little money, It seems she would put her to your bringing up, Madam.
Enter Woman and Phebe.
Leu. Let her come in. Would you ought with us, good woman? I pray be short, we are full of business.
Wo. I have a tender Girl here, an't please your honour.
Leu. Very well.
Wom. That hath a great desire to serve your worship.
Leu. It may be so; I am full of Maids.
Wom. She is young forsooth— And for her truth; and as they say her bearing.
Leu. Ye say well; come ye hither maid, let me feel your pulse, 'Tis somewhat weak, but Nature will grow stronger, Let me see your leg, she treads but low i'th' Pasterns.
Wom. A cork Heel, Madam.
Leu, We know what will do it, Without your aim, good woman; what do you pitch her at? She's but a slight toy—cannot hold out long.
Wom. Even what you think is meet.
Leu. Give her ten Crowns, we are full of business, She is a poor Woman, let her take a Cheese home. Enter the wench i' th' Office. [Ex. Wom. and 1 Ma.
2 Ma. What's your name, Sister?
Phe. Phebe, forsooth.
Leu. A pretty name; 'twill do well:
Go in, and let the other Maid instruct you, Phebe. [Ex. Phe.
Let my old Velvet skirt be made fit for her.
I'll put her into action for a Wast-coat;
And when I have rigg'd her up once, this small Pinnace
Shall sail for Gold, and good store too; who's there? [Knock within
Lord, shall we never have any ease in this world!
Still troubled! still molested! what would you have? Enter Menipp[us].
I cannot furnish you faster than I am able,
And ye were my Husband a thousand times, I cannot do it.
At least a dozen posts are gone this morning
For several parts of the Kingdom: I can do no more
But pay 'em, and instruct 'em.
Men. Prithee, good sweet heart, I come not to disturb thee, nor discourage thee, I know thou labour'st truly: hark in thine ear.
Leu. Ha!
What do you make so dainty on't? look there
I am an Ass, I can do nothing.
Men. Celia? I, this is she; a stranger born.
Leu. What would you give for more now?
Men. Prithee, my best Leucippe, there's much hangs on't,
Lodg'd at the end of Mars's street? that's true too;
At the sack of such a Town, by such a Souldier
Preserv'd a Prisoner: and by Prince Demetrius
Bought from that man again, maintain'd and favour'd:
How came you by this knowledg?
Leu. Poor, weak man, I have a thousand eyes, when thou art sleeping, Abroad, and full of business.
Men. You never try'd her?
Leu. No, she is beyond my level; so hedg'd in By the Princes infinite Love and Favour to her—
Men. She is a handsome Wench.
Leu. A delicate, and knows it; And out of that proof arms her self.
Men. Come in then; I have a great design from the King to you, And you must work like wax now.
Leu. On this Lady?
Men. On this, and all your wits call home.
Leu. I have done
Toys in my time of some note; old as I am,
I think my brains will work without barm;
Take up the Books.
Men. As we go in, I'le tell ye. [Exeunt.
Enter Antigonus, Timon, Lords and a Souldier.
Ant. No face of sorrow for this loss, 'twill choak him,
Nor no man miss a friend, I know his nature
So deep imprest with grief, for what he has suffer'd,
That the least adding to it adds to his ruine;
His loss is not so infinite, I hope, Souldier.
Soul. Faith neither great, nor out of indiscretion. The young men out of heat.
Enter Demetrius, Leontius, and Lieutenant.
Ant. I guess the manner.
Lord. The Prince and't like your Grace.
Ant. You are welcome home, Sir:
Come, no more sorrow, I have heard your fortune,
And I my self have try'd the like: clear up man,
I will not have ye take it thus; if I doubted
Your fear had lost, and that you had turn'd your back to 'em,
Basely besought their mercies—
Leo. No, no, by this hand, Sir, We fought like honest and tall men.
Antig. I know't Leontius: or if I thought
Neglect of rule, having his counsel with ye,
Or too vain-glorious appetite of Fame,
Your men forgot and scatter'd.
Leo. None of these, Sir, He shew'd himself a noble Gentleman, Every way apt to rule.
Ant. These being granted;
Why should you think you have done an act so hainous,
That nought but discontent dwells round about ye?
I have lost a Battel.
Leo. I, and fought it hard too.
Ant. With as much means as man—
Leo. Or Devil could urge it.
Ant. Twenty to one of our side now.
Leo. Turn Tables,
Beaten like Dogs again, like Owls, you take it
To heart for flying but a mile before 'em;
And to say the truth, 'twas no flight neither, Sir,
'Twas but a walk, a handsome walk,
I have tumbl'd with this old Body, beaten like a Stock-fish,
And stuck with Arrows, like an arming Quiver,
Blouded and bang'd almost a day before 'em,
And glad I have got off then. Here's a mad Shaver,
He fights his share I am sure, when e'r he comes to't;
Yet I have seen him trip it tithly too,
And cry the Devil take the hindmost ever.
Lieu. I learnt it of my Betters.
Leo. Boudge at this?
Ant. Has Fortune but one Face?
Lieu. In her best Vizard Methinks she looks but lowzily.
Ant. Chance, though she faint now, And sink below our expectations, Is there no hope left strong enough to buoy her?
Dem. 'Tis not, this day I fled before the Enemy,
And lost my People, left mine Honour murder'd,
My maiden Honour, never to be ransom'd,
(Which to a noble Soul is too too sensible)
Afflicts me with this sadness; most of these,
Time may turn straight again, experience perfect,
And new Swords cut new ways to nobler Fortunes.
O I have lost—
Ant. As you are mine forget it: I do not think it loss.
Dem. O Sir, forgive me,
I have lost my friends, those worthy Souls bred with me,
I have lost my self, they were the pieces of me:
I have lost all Arts, my Schools are taken from me,
Honour and Arms, no emulation left me:
I liv'd to see these men lost, look'd upon it:
These men that twin'd their loves to mine, their vertues;
O shame of shames! I saw and could not save 'em,
This carries Sulphur in't, this burns, and boils me,
And like a fatal Tomb, bestrides my memory.
Ant. This was hard fortune, but if alive, and taken, They shall be ransom'd: let it be at Millions.
Dem. They are dead, they are dead.
Lieu. When wou'd he weep for me thus? I may be dead and powder'd.
Leo. Good Prince, grieve not:
We are not certain of their deaths: the Enemy,
Though he be hot, and keen,
Yet holds good Quarter.
What Noise is this?
[Great Shout within: Enter Gentlemen.
Lieu. He does not follow us? Give me a Steeple top.
Leo. They live, they live, Sir.
Ant. Hold up your manly face. They live, they are here, Son.
Dem. These are the men.
1 Gent. They are, and live to honour ye.
Dem. How 'scap'd ye noble friends? methought I saw ye Even in the Jaws of Death.
2 Gent. Thanks to our folly,
That spur'd us on; we were indeed hedg'd round in't;
And ev'n beyond the hand of succour, beaten,
Unhors'd, disarm'd: and what we lookt for then, Sir,
Let such poor weary Souls that hear the Bell knoll,
And see the Grave a digging, tell.
Dem. For Heavens sake Delude mine Eyes no longer! how came ye off?
1 Gent. Against all expectation, the brave Seleucus,
I think this day enamour'd on your Vertue,
When, through the Troops, he saw ye shoot like lightning;
And at your manly courage all took fire;
And after that, the misery we fell to
The never-certain Fate of War, considering,
As we stood all before him, Fortunes ruines,
Nothing but Death expecting, a short time
He made a stand upon our Youths and Fortunes.
Then with an eye of mercy inform'd his Judgment,
How yet unripe we were, unblown, unharden'd,
Unfitted for such fatal ends; he cryed out to us,
Go Gentlemen, commend me to your Master,
To the most High, and Hopeful Prince, Demetrius;
Tell him the Valour that he showed against me
This day, the Virgin Valour, and true fire,
Deserves even from an Enemy this courtesie;
Your Lives, and Arms freely. I'll give 'em: thank him.
And thus we are return'd, Sir.
Leo. Faith, 'twas well done; 'Twas bravely done; was't not a noble part, Sir?
Lieu. Had I been there, up had I gone, I am sure on't; These noble tricks I never durst trust 'em yet.
Leo. Let me not live, and't were not a famed honesty;
It takes me such a tickling way: now would I wish Heaven,
But e'n the happiness, e'n that poor blessing
For all the sharp afflictions thou hast sent me,
But e'n i'th' head o'th' field, to take Seleucus.
I should do something memorable: fie, sad still?
1 Gent. Do you grieve, we are come off?
Dem. Unransom'd, was it?
2 Gent. It was, Sir.
Dem. And with such a fame to me? Said ye not so?
Leo. Ye have heard it.
Dem. O Leontius! Better I had lost 'em all: my self had perish'd, And all my Fathers hopes.
Leo. Mercy upon you;
What ails you, Sir? Death, do not make fools on's,
Neither go to Church, nor tarry at home,
That's a fine Horn-pipe?
Ant. What's now your grief, Demetrius?
Dem. Did he not beat us twice?
Leo. He beat, a Pudding; Beat us but once.
Dem. H'as beat me twice, and beat me to a Coward. Beat me to nothing.
Lieu. Is not the Devil in him?
Leo. I pray it be no worse.
Dem. Twice conquer'd me.
Leo. Bear witness all the world, I am a Dunce here.
Dem. With valour first he struck me, then with honour, That stroak Leontius, that stroak, dost thou not feel it?
Leo. Whereabouts was it? for I remember nothing yet.
Dem. All these Gentlemen That were his Prisoners—
Leo. Yes, he set 'em free, Sir, With Arms and honour.
Dem. There, there, now thou hast it;
At mine own weapon, Courtesie has beaten me,
At that I was held a Master in, he has cow'd me,
Hotter than all the dint o'th' Fight he has charg'd me:
Am I not now a wretched fellow? think on't;
And when thou hast examin'd all wayes honorable,
And find'st no door left open to requite this,
Conclude I am a wretch, and was twice beaten.
Ant. I have observ'd your way, and understand it,
And equal love it as Demetrius,
My noble child thou shalt not fall in vertue,
I and my power will sink first: you Leontius,
Wait for a new Commission, ye shall out again,
And instantly: you shall not lodge this night here,
Not see a friend, nor take a blessing with ye,
Before ye be i'th' field: the enemy is up still,
And still in full design: Charge him again, Son,
And either bring home that again thou hast lost there,
Or leave thy body by him.
Dem. Ye raise me, And now I dare look up again, Leontius.
Leo. I, I, Sir, I am thinking who we shall take of 'em, To make all straight; and who we shall give to th' Devil. What saist thou now Lieutenant?
Lieu. I say nothing.
Lord what ail I, that I have no mind to fight now?
I find my constitution mightily alter'd
Since I came home: I hate all noises too,
Especially the noise of Drums; I am now as well
As any living man; why not as valiant?
To fight now, is a kind of vomit to me,
It goes against my stomach.
Dem. Good Sir, presently; You cannot doe your Son so fair a favour.
Ant. 'Tis my intent: I'le see ye march away too. Come, get your men together presently, Leontius, And press where please you, as you march.
Leo. We goe Sir.
Ant. Wait you on me, I'le bring ye to your command, And then to fortune give you up.
Dem. Ye love me. [Exit.
Leo. Goe, get the Drums, beat round, Lieutenant.
Lieu. Hark ye, Sir, I have a foolish business they call marriage.
Leo. After the wars are done.
Lieu. The partie staies Sir, I have giv'n the Priest his mony too: all my friends Sir, My Father, and my Mother.
Leo. Will you goe forward?
Lieu. She brings a pretty matter with her.
Leo. Half a dozen Bastards.
Lieu. Some fortie Sir.
Leo. A goodly competency.
Lieu. I mean Sir, pounds a year; I'le dispatch the matter, 'Tis but a night or two; I'le overtake ye Sir.
Leo. The 2 old legions, yes: where lies the horse-quarter?
Lieu. And if it be a boy, I'le even make bold Sir.
Leo. Away with your whore, A plague o' your whore, you damn'd Rogue, Now ye are cur'd and well; must ye be clicketing?
Lieu. I have broke my mind to my Ancient, in my absence, He's a sufficient Gentleman.
Leo. Get forward.
Lieu. Only receive her portion.
Leo. Get ye forward; Else I'le bang ye forward.
Lieu. Strange Sir, A Gentleman and an officer cannot have the liberty To doe the office of a man.
Leo. Shame light on thee, How came this whore into thy head?
Lieu. This whore Sir? 'Tis strange, a poor whore.
Leo. Do not answer me, Troop, Troop away; do not name this whore again, Or think there is a whore.
Lieu. That's very hard Sir.
Leo. For if thou dost, look to't, I'le have thee guelded, I'le walk ye out before me: not a word more. [Exeunt.
Enter Leucippe, and Governess.
Leu. Ye are the Mistris of the house ye say, Where this young Lady lies.
Gov. For want of a better.
Leu. You may be good enough for such a purpose: When was the Prince with her? answer me directly.
Gov. Not since he went a warring.
Leu. Very well then:
What carnal copulation are you privie to
Between these two? be not afraid, we are women,
And may talk thus amongst our selves, no harm in't.
Gov. No sure, there's no harm in't, I conceive that; But truly, that I ever knew the Gentlewoman Otherwise given, than a hopefull Gentlewoman—
Leu. You'l grant me the Prince loves her?
Gov. There I am with ye. And the gods bless her, promises her mightily.
Leu. Stay there a while. And gives her gifts?
Gov. Extreamly; And truly makes a very Saint of her.
Leu. I should think now,
(Good woman let me have your judgement with me,
I see 'tis none of the worst: Come sit down by me)
That these two cannot love so tenderly.
Gov. Being so young as they are too.
Leu. You say well— But that methinks some further promises—
Gov. Yes, yes, I have heard the Prince swear he would marry her.
Leu. Very well still: they do not use to fall out?
Gov. The tenderest Chickens to one another, They cannot live an hour asunder.
Leu. I have done then;
And be you gone; you know your charge, and do it.
You know whose will it is; if you transgress it—
That is, if any have access, or see her,
Before the Kings will be fulfill'd—
Gov. Not the Prince, Madam?
Leu. You'I be hang'd if you doe it, that I'le assure ye.
Gov. But ne'retheless, I'le make bold to obey ye.
Leu. Away, and to your business then.
Gov. 'Tis done, Madam. [Exeunt.
Enter Antigonus, and Menippus.
Ant. Thou hast taken wondrous pains; but yet Menippus, You understand not of what bloud and country.
Men. I labour'd that, but cannot come to know it. A Greek I am sure she is, she speaks this language.
Ant. Is she so excellent handsom?
Men. Most inticing.
Ant. Sold for a prisoner?
Men. Yes Sir, Some poor creature.
Ant. And he loves tenderly?
Men. They say extreamly.
Ant. 'Tis well prevented then: yes, I perceiv'd it:
When he took leave now, he made a hundred stops,
Desir'd an hour, but half an hour, a minute,
Which I with anger cross'd; I knew his business,
I knew 'twas she he hunted on; this journey, man,
I beat out suddenly for her cause intended,
And would not give him time to breath. When comes she?
Men. This morning Sir.
Ant. Lodge her to all delight then:
For I would have her try'd to th' test: I know,
She must be some crackt coyn, not fit his traffique, (her,
Which when we have found, the shame will make him leave
Or we shall work a nearer way: I'le bury him,
And with him all the hopes I have cast upon him,
E're he shall dig his own grave in that woman:
You know which way to bring her: I'le stand close there,
To view her as she passes: and do you hear Menippus,
Observe her with all sweetness: humour her,
'Twill make her lie more careless to our purposes.
Away, and take what helps you please.
Men. I am gone Sir. [Exeunt.
Enter Celia, and Governess.
Cel. Governess, from whom was this Gown sent me? Prethee be serious true; I will not wear't else: 'Tis a handsom one.
Gov. As though you know not?
Cel. No faith:
But I believe, for certain too, yet I wonder,
Because it was his caution, this poor way,
Still to preserve me from the curious searchings
Of greedy eyes.
Gov. You have it: does it please you?
Cel. 'Tis very rich, methinks too, prethee tell me?
Gov. From one that likes you well, never look coy, Lady; These are no gifts, to be put off with powtings.
Cel. Powtings, and gifts? is it from any stranger?
Gov. You are so curious, that there is no talk to ye. What if it be I pray ye?
Cel. Unpin good Governess, Quick, quick.
Gov. Why, what's the matter?
Cel. Quick, good Governess:
Fie on't, how beastly it becomes me! poorly!
A trick put in upon me? well said Governess:
I vow I would not wear it—out, it smells musty.
Are these your tricks? now I begin to smell it,
Abominable musty; will you help me?
The Prince will come again—
Gov. You are not mad sure?
Cel. As I live I'le cut it off: a pox upon it; For sure it was made for that use; do you bring me Liveries? Stales to catch Kites? dost thou laugh too, thou base woman?
Gov. I cannot chuse, if I should be hang'd.
Cel. Abuse me, And then laugh at me too?
Gov. I do not abuse ye:
Is it abuse, to give him drink that's thirsty?
You want cloaths; is it such a hainous sin I beseech ye,
To see you stor'd?
Cel. There is no greater wickedness Than this way.
Gov. What way?
Cel. I shall curse thee fearfully, If thou provok'st me further: and take heed, woman; My curses never miss.
Gov. Curse him that sent it.
Cel. Tell but his name—
Gov. You dare not curse him.
Cel. Dare not? By this fair light—
Gov. You are so full of passion—
Cel. Dare not be good? be honest? dare not curse him?
Gov. I think you dare not: I believe so.
Cel. Speak him.
Gov. Up with your valour then, up with it bravely, And take your full charge.
Cel. If I do not, hang me; Tell but his name.
Gov. 'Twas Prince Demetrius sent it: Now, now, give fire, kill him i'th' eye now Lady.
Cel. Is he come home?
Gov. It seems so; but your curse now.
Cel. You do not lie, I hope.
_Gov. You dare not curse him.
Cel. Prethee do not abuse me: is he come home indeed? For I would now with all my heart believe thee.
Gov. Nay, you may chuse: alas, I deal for strangers, That send ye scurvie musty Gowns, stale Liveries: I have my tricks.
Cel. 'Tis a good gown, a handsome one; I did but jest; where is he?
Gov. He that sent it—
Cel. How? he that sent it? is't come to that again? Thou canst not be so foolish: prethee speak out, I may mistake thee.
Gov. I said he that sent it.
Cel. Curse o' my life: why dost thou vex me thus?
I know thou meanest Demetrius, dost thou not?
I charge thee speak truth: if it be any other,
Thou knowst the charge he gave thee, and the justice
His anger will'inflift, if e're he know this,
As know he shall, he shall, thou spightfull woman,
Thou beastly woman; and thou shalt know too late too,
And feel too sensible, I am no ward,
No sale stuff for your money Merchants that sent if?
Who dare send me, or how durst thou, thou—
Gov. What you please: For this is ever the reward of service. The Prince shall bring the next himself.
Cel. 'Tis strange That you should deal so peevishly: beshrew ye, You have put me in a heat.
Gov. I am sure ye have kill'd me: I ne're receiv'd such language: I can but wait upon ye, And be your drudge; keep a poor life to serve ye.
Cel. You know my nature is too easie, Governess, And you know now, I am sorry too: how does he?
Gov. O God, my head.
Cel. Prethee be well, and tell me,
Did he speak of me, since he came? nay, see now,
If thou wilt leave this tyranny? good sweet governess,
Did he but name his Celia? look upon me,
Upon my faith I meant no harm: here, take this,
And buy thy self some trifles: did he good wench?
Gov. He loves ye but too dearly.
Cel. That's my good Governess.
Gov. There's more cloaths making for ye.
Cel. More cloaths?
Gov. More:
Richer and braver; I can tell ye that news;
And twenty glorious things.
Cel. To what use Sirrah?
Gov. Ye are too good for our house now: we poor wretches Shall lose the comfort of ye.
Cel. No, I hope not.
Gov. For ever lose ye Lady.
Cel. Lose me? wherefore? I hear of no such thing.
Gov. 'Tis sure it must be so: You must shine now at Court: such preparation, Such hurry, and such hanging rooms—
Cel. To th' Court wench? Was it to th' Court thou saidst?
Gov. You'l find it so.
Cel. Stay, stay, this cannot be.
Gov. I say it must be: I hope to find ye still the same good Lady.
Cel. To th' Court? this stumbles me: art sure for me wench, This preparation is?
Gov. She is perilous crafty: I fear too honest for us all too. Am I sure I live?
Cel. To th' Court? this cannot down: what should I do there?
Why should he on a suddain change his mind thus,
And not make me acquainted? sure he loves me;
His vow was made against it, and mine with him:
At least while this King liv'd: he will come hither,
And see me e're I goe?
Gov. Wou'd some wise woman
Had her in working. That I think he will not,
Because he means with all joy there to meet ye.
Ye shall hear more within this hour.
Cel. A Courtier?
What may that meaning be? sure he will see me
If he be come, he must: Hark ye good Governess,
What age is the King of?
Gov. He's an old man, and full of business.
Cel. I fear too full indeed: what Ladys are there? I would be loth to want good company.
Gov. Delicate young Ladys, as you would desire; And when you are acquainted, the best company.
Cel. 'Tis very well: prethee goe in, let's talk more. For though I fear a trick, Fie bravely try it.
Gov. I see he must be cunning, Knocks this Doe down. [Exeunt.
Enter Lieutenant, and Leontius, Drums within.
Leo. You shall not have your will, sirrah, are ye running?
Have ye gotten a toy in your heels? Is this a season,
When honour pricks ye on, to prick your ears up,
After your whore, your Hobby-horse?
Lieu. Why look ye now: What a strange man are you? would you have a man fight At all hours all alike?
Leo. Do but fight something; But half a blow, and put thy stomach to't: Turn but thy face, and do-make mouths at 'em.
Lieu. And have my teeth knockt out; I thank ye heartily, Ye are my dear friend.
Leo. What a devil ails thee? Dost long to be hang'd?
Lieu. Faith Sir, I make no suit for't: But rather Fhan I would live thus out of charity, Continually in brawling—
Leo. Art thou not he? I may be cosen'd—
Lieu, I shall be discover'd.
Leo. That in the midst of thy most hellish pains, When thou wert crawling sick, didst aim at wonders, When thou wert mad with pain?
Lieu. Ye have found the cause out;
I had ne're been mad to fight else: I confess Sir,
The daily torture of my side that vext me,
Made me as daily careless what became of me,
Till a kind sword there wounded me, and eas'd me;
'Twas nothing in my valour fought; I am well now,
And take some pleasure in my life, methinks now,
It shews as mad a thing to me to see you scuffle,
And kill one another foolishly for honour,
As 'twas to you, [t]o see me play the coxcomb.
Leo. And wilt thou ne're fight more?
Lieu. I'th' mind I am in.
Leo. Nor never be sick again?
Lieu. I hope I shall not.
Leo. Prethee be sick again: prethee, I beseech thee, Be just so sick again.
Lieu. I'le just be hang'd first.
Leo. If all the Arts that are can make a Colique, Therefore look to't: or if imposthumes, mark me, As big as foot-balls—
Lieu. Deliver me.
Leo. Or stones of ten pound weight i'th' kidneys,
Through ease and ugly dyets may be gather'd;
I'le feed ye up my self Sir, I'le prepare ye,
You cannot fight, unless the Devil tear ye,
You shall not want provocations, I'le scratch ye,
I'le have thee have the tooth-ach, and the head-ach.
Lieu. Good Colonel, I'le doe any thing.
Leo. No, no, nothing—
Then will I have thee blown with a pair of Smiths bellows,
Because ye shall be sure to have a round gale with ye,
Fill'd full of oyle o'Devil, and Aqua-fortis,
And let these work, these may provoke.
Lieu. Good Colonel.
Leo. A coward in full bloud; prethee be plain with me, Will roasting doe thee any good?
Lieu. Nor basting neither, Sir.
Leo. Marry that goes hard.
Enter 1 Gentleman.
1 Gent. Where are you Colonel?
The Prince experts ye Sir; h'as hedg'd the enemy
Within a streight, where all the hopes and valours
Of all men living cannot force a passage,
He has 'em now.
Leo. I knew all this before Sir, I chalk'd him out his way: but do you see that thing there?
Lieu. Nay good sweet Colonel, I'le fight a little.
Leo. That thing?
1 Gent. What thing? I see the brave Lieutenant.
Leo. Rogue, what a name hast thou lost?
Lieu. You may help it, Yet you may help't: I'le doe ye any courtesie: I know you love a wench well.
Enter 2 Gentlemen.
Leo. Look upon him; Do you look too.
2 Gent. What should I look on? I come to tell ye, the Prince stayes your direction, We have 'em now i'th' Coop, Sir.
Leo. Let 'em rest there, And chew upon their miseries: but look first—
Lieu. I cannot fight for all this.
Leo. Look on this fellow.
2 Gent. I know him; 'tis the valiant brave Lieutenant.
Leo. Canst thou hear this, and play the Rogue? steal off quickly,
Behind me quickly neatly do it,
And rush into the thickest of the enemy,
And if thou kill'st but two.
Lieu. You may excuse me, 'Tis not my fault: I dare not fight.
Leo. Be rul'd yet, I'le beat thee on; goe wink and fight: a plague upon your sheeps heart.
2 Gent. What's all this matter?
1 Gent. Nay I cannot shew ye.
Leo. Here's twenty pound, goe but smell to 'em.
Lieu. Alas Sir, I have taken such a cold I can smell nothing.
Leo. I can smell a Rascal, a rank Rascal: Fye, how he stinks, stinks like a tyred Jade.
2 Gent. What Sir?
Leo. Why, that Sir, do not you smell him?
2 Gent. Smell him?
Lieu. I must endure.
Leo. Stinks like a dead Dog, Carrion— There's no such damnable smell under Heaven, As the faint sweat of a Coward: will ye fight yet?
Lieu. Nay, now I defie ye; ye have spoke the worst ye can Of me, and if every man should take what you say To the heart.—
Leo. God ha' Mercy,
God ha' Mercy with all my heart; here I forgive thee;
And fight, or fight not, do but goe along with us,
And keep my Dog.
Lieu. I love a good Dog naturally.
1 Gent. What's all this stir, Lieutenant?
Lieu. Nothing Sir, But a slight matter of argument.
Leo. Pox take thee.
Sure I shall love this Rogue, he's so pretty a Coward.
Come Gentlemen, let's up now, and if fortune
Dare play the slut again, I'le never more Saint her,
Come play-fellow, come, prethee come up; come chicken,
I have a way shall fit yet: A tame knave,
Come, look upon us.
Lieu. I'le tell ye who does best boyes. [Exeunt.
Enter Antigonus, and Menippus, above.
Men. I saw her coming out.
Ant. Who waits upon her?
Men. Timon, Charinthus, and some other Gentlemen, By me appointed.
Ant. Where's your wife?
Men. She's ready To entertain her here Sir; and some Ladies Fit for her lodgings.
Ant. How shews she in her trim now?
Men. Oh most divinely sweet.
Ant. Prethee speak softly. How does she take her coming?
Men. She bears it bravely; But what she thinks—For Heaven sake Sir preserve me— If the Prince chance to find this.
Ant. Peace ye old fool; She thinks to meet him here.
Men. That's all the Project.
Ant. Was she hard to bring?
Men. No she believ'd it quickly,
And quickly made her self fit, the Gown a little,
And those new things she has not been acquainted with,
At least in this place, where she liv'd a prisoner,
Troubled and stirr'd her mind. But believe me Sir,
She has worn as good, they sit so apted to her;
And she is so great a Mistris of disposure:
Here they come now: but take a full view of her.
Enter Celia, Timon, Charinthus, and Gent.
Ant. How cheerfully she looks? how she salutes all?
And how she views the place? she is very young sure:
That was an admirable smile, a catching one,
The very twang of Cupids bow sung in it:
She has two-edg'd eyes, they kill o' both sides.
Men. She makes a stand, as though she would speak.
Ant. Be still then.
Cel. Good Gentlemen, trouble your selves no further, I had thought sure to have met a noble friend here.
Tim. Ye may meet many Lady.
Cel. Such as you are I covet few or none, Sir.
Char. Will you walk this way, And take the sweets o'th' garden? cool and close, Lady.
Cel. Methinks this open air's far better, tend ye that way Pray where's the woman came along?
Char. What woman?
Cel. The woman of the house I lay at.
Tim. Woman? Here was none came along sure.
Cel. Sure I am catcht then: Pray where's the Prince?
Char. He will not be long from ye, We are his humble Servants.
Cel. I could laugh now, To see how finely I am cozen'd: yet I fear not, For sure I know a way to scape all dangers.
Tim. Madam, your lodgings lye this way.
Cel. My Lodgings? For Heaven sake Sir, what office do I bear here?
Tim. The great commander of all hearts.
Enter Leucippe, and Ladies.
Cel. You have hit it. I thank your sweet heart for it. Who are these now?
Char. Ladies that come to serve ye.
Cel. Well consider'd, Are you my Servants?
Lady. Servants to your pleasures.
Cel. I dare believe ye, but I dare not trust ye:
Catch'd with a trick? well, I must bear it patiently:
Methinks this Court's a neat place: all the people
Of so refin'd a size—
Tim. This is no poor Rogue.
Leu. Were it a Paradise to please your fancy, And entertain the sweetness you bring with ye.
Cel. Take breath;
You are fat, and many words may melt ye,
This is three Bawdes beaten into one; bless me Heaven,
What shall become of me? I am i'th' pitfall:
O' my conscience, this is the old viper, and all these little ones
Creep every night into her belly; do you hear plump servant
And you my little sucking Ladies, you must teach me,
For I know you are excellent at carriage,
How to behave my self, for I am rude yet:
But you say the Prince will come?
Lady. Will flie to see you.
Cel. For look you if a great man, say the King now Should come and visit me?
Men. She names ye.
Ant. Peace fool.
Cel. And offer me a kindness, such a kindness.
Leu. I, such a kindness.
Cel. True Lady such a kindness, What shall that kindness be now?
Leu. A witty Lady, Learn little ones, learn.
Cel. Say it be all his favour.
Leu. And a sweet saying 'tis.
Cel. And I grow peevish?
Leu. You must not be negleftfull.
Cel. There's the matter, There's the main doctrine now, and I may miss it, Or a kind handsom Gentleman?
Leu. You say well.
Cel. They'I count us basely bred.
Leu. Not freely nurtur'd.
Cel. I'le take thy counsel.
Leu. 'Tis an excellent woman.
Cel. I find a notable volum here, a learned one;
Which way? for I would fain be in my chamber;
In truth sweet Ladies, I grow weary; fie,
How hot the air beats on me!
Lady. This way Madam.
Cel. Now by mine honour, I grow wondrous faint too.
Leu. Your fans sweet Gentlewomen, your fans.
Cel. Since I am fool'd, I'le make my self some sport, though I pay dear for't. [Ex.
Men. You see now what a manner of woman she is Sir.
Ant. Thou art an ass.
Men. Is this a fit love for the Prince:
Ant. A coxcombe:
Now by my crown a daintie wench, a sharp wench,
And/a matchless Spirit: how she jeer'd 'em?
How carelesly she scoff'd 'em? use her nobly;
I would I had not seen her: wait anon,
And then you shall have more to trade upon. [Exeunt.
Enter Leontius, and the 2 Gentlemen.
Leo. We must keep a round, and a strong watch to night,
The Prince will not charge the Enemy till the morning:
But for the trick I told ye for this Rascal,
This rogue, that health and strong heart makes a coward.
1 Gent. I, if it take.
Leo. Ne're fear it, the Prince has it,
And if he let it fall, I must not know it;
He will suspecl: me presently: but you two
May help the plough.
2 Gent. That he is sick again.
Leo. Extreamly sick: his disease grown incurable, Never yet found, nor touch'd at.
Enter Lieutenant.
2 Gent. Well, we have it, And here he comes.
Leo. The Prince has been upon him, What a flatten face he has now? it takes, believe it; How like an Ass he looks?
Lieu. I feel no great pain, At least, I think I do not; yet I feel sensibly I grow extreamly faint: how cold I sweat now!
Leo. So, so, so.
Lieu. And now 'tis ev'n too true, I feel a pricking,
A pricking, a strange pricking: how it tingles!
And as it were a stitch too: the Prince told me,
And every one cri'd out I was a dead man;
I had thought I had been as well—
Leo. Upon him now Boys, And do it most demurely.
1 Gent. How now Lieutenant?
Lieu. I thank ye Gentlemen.
1 Gent. 'Life, how looks this man? How dost thou good Lieutenant?
2 Gent. I ever told ye
This man was never cur'd, I see it too plain now;
How do you feel your self? you look not perfect,
How dull his eye hangs?
1 Gent. That may be discontent.
2 Gent. Believe me friend, I would not suffer now The tith of those pains this man feels; mark his forehead What a cloud of cold dew hangs upon't?
Lieu. I have it, Again I have it; how it grows upon me! A miserable man I am.
Leo. Ha, ha, ha, A miserable man thou shall be, This is the tamest Trout I ever tickl'd.
Enter 2 Physicians.
1 Phy. This way he went.
2 Phy. Pray Heaven we find him living, He's a brave fellow, 'tis pity he should perish thus.
1 Phy. A strong hearted man, and of a notable sufferance.
Lieu. Oh, oh.
1 Gent. How now? how is it man?
Lieu. Oh Gentlemen, Never so full of pain.
2 Gent. Did I not tell ye?
Lieu. Never so full of pain, Gentlemen.
1 Phy. He is here; How do you, Sir?
2 Phy. Be of good comfort, Souldier, The Prince has sent us to you.
Lieu. Do you think I may live?
2 Phy. He alters hourly, strangely.
1 Phy. Yes, you may live: but—
Leo. Finely butted, Doctor.
1 Gent. Do not discourage him.
1 Phy. He must be told truth, 'Tis now too late to trifle.
Enter Demetrius, and Gent.
2 Gent. Here the Prince comes.
Dem. How now Gentlemen?
2 Gent. Bewailing, Sir, a Souldier, And one I think, your Grace will grieve to part with, But every living thing—
Dem. 'Tis true, must perish, Our lives are but our marches to our graves, How dost thou now Lieutenant?
Lieu. Faith 'tis true, Sir, We are but spans, and Candles ends.
Leo. He's finely mortified.
Dem. Thou art heart whole yet I see he alters strangely, And that apace too; I saw it this morning in him, When he poor man, I dare swear—
Lieu. No believ't, Sir, I never felt it.
Dem. Here lies the pain now: how he is swel'd?
1 Phy. The Impostume
Fed with a new malignant humour now,
Will grow to such a bigness, 'tis incredible,
The compass of a Bushel will not hold it.
And with such a Hell of torture it will rise too—
Dem. Can you endure me touch it?
Lieu. Oh, I beseech you, Sir: I feel you sensibly ere you come near me.
Dem. He's finely wrought, he must be cut, no Cure else, And suddenly, you see how fast he blows out.
Lieu. Good Master Doctors, let me be beholding to you, I feel I cannot last.
2 Phy. For what Lieutenant?
Lieu. But ev'n for half a dozen Cans of good Wine, That I may drink my will out: I faint hideously. (men,
Dem. Fetch him some Wine; and since he must go Gentle—Why let him take his journey merrily.
Enter Servant with Wine.
Lieu. That's ev'n the nearest way.
Leo. I could laugh dead now.
Dem. Here, off with that.
Lieu. These two I give your Grace, A poor remembrance of a dying man, Sir, And I beseech you wear 'em out.
Dem._ I will Souldier, These are fine Legacies.
Lieu. Among the Gentlemen,
Even all I have left; I am a poor man, naked,
Yet something for remembra[n]ce: four a piece Gentlemen,
And so my body where you please.
Leo. It will work.
Lieu. I make your Grace my Executor, and I beseech ye See my poor Will fulfill'd: sure I shall walk else.
Dem. As full as they can be fill'd, here's my hand, Souldier.
1 Gent. The Wine will tickle him.
Lieut. I would hear a Drum beat, But to see how I could endure it.
Dem. Beat a Drum there. [Drum within.
Lieu. Oh Heavenly Musick, I would hear one sing to't; I am very full of pain.
Dem. Sing? 'tis impossible.
Lieu. Why, then I would drink a Drum full: Where lies the Enemy?
2 Gent. Why, here close by.
Leo. Now he begins to muster.
Lieu. And dare he fight? Dare he fight Gentlemen?
1 Phy. You must not cut him:
He's gone then in a moment; all the hope left, is
To work his weakness into suddain anger,
And make him raise his passion above his pain,
And so dispose him on the Enemy;
His body then, being stir'd with violence,
Will purge it self and break the sore.
Dem. 'Tis true, Sir.
1 Phy. And then my life for his.
Lieu. I will not dye thus.
Dem. But he is too weak to do—
Lieu. Dye like a Dog?
2 Phy. I, he's weak, but yet he's heart whole.
Lieu. Hem.
Dem. An excellent sign.
Lieu. Hem.
Dem. Stronger still, and better.
Lieu. Hem, hem; ran, tan, tan, tan, tan. [Exit.
1 Phy. Now he's i'th' way on't.
Dem. Well go thy waies, thou wilt do something certain.
Leo. And some brave thing, or let mine ears be cut off. He's finely wrought.
Dem. Let's after him.
Leo. I pray, Sir; But how this Rogue, when this cloud's melted in him, And all discover'd—
Dem. That's for an after mirth, away, away, away. [Ex.
Enter Seleucus, Lysimachus, Ptolomie, Souldiers.
Sel. Let no man fear to dye: we love to sleep all,
And death is but the sounder sleep; all ages,
And all hours call us; 'tis so common, easie,
That little Children tread those paths before us;
We are not sick, nor our souls prest with sorrows,
Nor go we out like tedious tales, forgotten;
High, high we come, and hearty to our Funerals,
And as the Sun that sets, in bloud let's fall.
Lysi. 'Tis true, they have us fast, we cannot scape 'em
Nor keeps the brow of fortune one smile for us,
Dishonourable ends we can scape though,
And (worse than those Captivities) we can die,
And dying nobly, though we leave behind us
These clods of flesh, that are too massie burthens,
Our living souls flie crown'd with living conquests.
Ptol. They have begun, fight bravely, and fall bravely;
And may that man that seeks to save his life now
By price, or promise, or by fear falls from us,
Never again be blest with name of Souldier.
Enter a Souldier.
Sel. How now? who charged first? I seek a brave hand To set me off in death.
Soul. We are not charg'd, Sir, The Prince lies still.
Sel. How comes this Larum up then?
Soul. There is one desperate fellow, with the Devil in him
(He never durst do this else) has broke into us,
And here he bangs ye two or three before him,
There five or six; ventures upon whole Companies.
Ptol. And is not seconded?
Soul. Not a man follows.
Sel. Nor cut i' pieces?
Soul. Their wonder yet has staid 'em.
Sel. Let's in, and see this miracle?
Ptol. I admire it. [Ex.
Enter Leontius, and Gentlemen.
Leon. Fetch him off, fetch him off; I am sure he's clouted; Did I hot tell you how 'twould take?
1 Gent. 'Tis admirable.
Enter Lieutenant with Colours in his hand, pursuing 3 or 4 Souldiers.
Lie. Follow that blow, my friend, there's at your coxcombs, I fight to save me from the Surgions miseries.
Leo. How the Knave curries 'em?
Lieu. You cannot Rogues,
Till you have my Diseases, flie my fury,
Ye Bread and Butter Rogues, do ye run from me?
And my side would give me leave, I would so hunt ye,
Ye Porridg gutted Slaves, ye Veal broth-Boobies.
Enter Demetrius, and Physicians, and Gentlemen.
Leo. Enough, enough Lieutenant, thou hast done bravely.
Dem. Mirrour of man.
Lieu. There's a Flag for ye, Sir, I took it out o'th' shop, and never paid for't, I'le to 'em again, I am not come to th' text yet.
Dem. No more my Souldier: beshrew my heart he is hurt sore.
Leo. Hang him, he'l lick all th^se whole.
1 Phy. Now will we take him, And Cure him in a trice.
Dem. Be careful of him.
Lieu. Let me live but two years,
And do what ye will with me;
I never had but two hours yet of happiness;
Pray ye give me nothing to provoke my valour,
For I am ev'n as weary of this fighting—
2 Phy. Ye shall have nothing; come to the Princes Tent And there the Surgions presently shall search ye, Then to your rest.
Lieu. A little handsome Litter To lay me in, and I shall sleep.
Leo. Look to him.
Dem. I do believe a Horse begot this fellow, He never knew his strength yet; they are our own.
Leo. I think so, I am cozen'd else; I would but see now A way to fetch these off, and save their honours.
Dem. Only their lives.
Leo. Pray ye take no way of peace now, Unless it be with infinite advantage.
Dem. I shall be rul'd;
Let the Battels now move forward,
Our self will give the signal: Enter Trumpet and Herald.
Now Herald, what's your message?
Her. From my Masters, This honourable courtesie, a Parley For half an hour, no more, Sir.
Dem. Let 'em come on, They have my Princely word.
Enter Seleucus, Lysimacus, Ptolomie, Attendants, Souldiers.
Her. They are here to attend ye.
Dem. Now Princes, your demands?
Sel. Peace, if it may be Without the too much tainture of our honour: Peace, and we'l buy it too.
Dem. At what price?
Lysi. Tribute.
Ptol. At all the charge of this War.
Leo. That will not do.
Sel. Leontius, you and I have serv'd together,
And run through many a Fortune with our swords,
Brothers in Wounds and Health; one meat has fed us,
One Tent a thousand times from cold night cover'd us:
Our loves have been but one; and had we died then,
One Monument had held our names, and actions:
Why do you set upon your friends such prices?
And sacrifice to giddy chance such Trophies?
Have we forgot to dye? or are our vertues
Less in afflictions constant, than our fortunes?
Ye are deceiv'd old Souldier.
Leo. I know your worths,
And thus low bow in reverence to your vertues:
Were these my Wars, or led my power in chief here,
I knew then how to meet your memories:
They are my Kings imployments; this man fights now,
To whom I ow all duty, faith, and service;
This man that fled before ye; call back that,
That bloudy day again, call that disgrace home,
And then an easie Peace may sheath our Swords up.
I am not greedy of your lives and fortunes,
Nor do I gape ungratefully to swallow ye.
Honour, the spur of all illustrious natures,
That made you famous Souldiers, and next Kings,
And not ambitious envy strikes me forward.
Will ye unarm, and yield your selves his prisoners?
Sel. We never knew what that sound meant: no Gyves Shall ever bind this body, but embraces; Nor weight of sorrow here, till Earth fall on me.
Leo. Expect our charge then.
Lysi. 'Tis the nobler courtesie: And so we leave the hand of Heaven to bless us.
Dem. Stay, have you any hope?
Sel. We have none left us, But that one comfort of our deaths together; Give us but room to fight.
Leo. Win it, and wear it.
Ptol. Call from the hills those Companies hang o're us, Like bursting Clouds; and then break in, and take us.
Dem. Find such a Souldier will forsake advantage,
And we'll draw off to shew I dare be noble,
And hang a light out to ye in this darkness,
The light of peace; give up those Cities, Forts,
And all those Frontier Countries to our uses.
Sel. Is this the Peace? Traitors to those that feed us, Our Gods and people? give our Countries from us?
Lysi. Begin the Knell, it sounds a great deal sweeter.
Ptol. Let loose your servant, death.
Sel. Fall fate upon us, Our memories shall never stink behind us.
Dem. Seleucus_, great Seleucus.
Sol. The Prince calls, Sir.
Dem. Thou stock of nobleness, and courtesie, Thou Father of the War—
Leo. What means the Prince now?
Dem. Give me my Standard here.
Lysi. His anger's melted.
Dem. You Gentlemen that were his prisoners,
And felt the bounty of that noble nature,
Lay all your hands, and bear these Colours to him,
The Standard of the Kingdom; take it Souldier.
Ptol. What will this mean?
Dem. Thou hast won it, bear it off, And draw thy men home whilest we wait upon thee.
Sel. You shall have all our Countries.
Lysi. Ptol. All by Heaven, Sir.
Dem. I will not have a stone, a bush, a bramble,
No, in the way of courtesie, I'le start ye;
Draw off, and make a lane through all the Army,
That these that have subdu'd us, may march through us.
Sel. Sir, do not make me surfeit with such goodness, I'le bear your Standard for ye; follow ye.
Dem. I swear it shall be so, march through me fairly, And thine be this days honour, great Seleucus.
Ptol. Mirrour of noble minds.
Dem. Nay then ye hate me.
Leo. I cannot speak now: [Ex. with Drums, and Shouts.
Well, go thy wayes; at a sure piece of bravery
Thou art the best, these men are won by th' necks now:
I'le send a Post away.
Enter Antigonus, and Menippus.
Ant. No aptness in her?
Men. Not an immodest motion, And yet when she is courted, Makes as wild witty answers.
Ant. This more fires me, I must not have her thus.
Men. We cannot alter her.
Ant. Have ye put the youths upon her?
Men. All that know any thing,
And have been studied how to catch a beauty,
But like so many whelps about an Elephant—
The Prince is coming home, Sir.
Ant. I hear that too, But that's no matter; am I alter'd well?
Men. Not to be known I think, Sir.
Ant. I must see her.
Enter 2 Gentlemen, or Lords.
1 Gent. I offered all I had, all I could think of, I tri'd her through all the points o'th' compass, I think.
2 Gent. She studies to undo the Court, to plant here
The Enemy to our Age, Chastity;
She is the first, that e're bauk'd a close Arbour,
And the sweet contents within: She hates curl'd heads too,
And setting up of beards she swears is Idolatry.
1 Gent. I never knew so fair a face so froze; Yet she would make one think—
2 Gent. True by her carriage,
For she's as wanton as a Kid to th' out side,
As full of Mocks and Taunts: I kiss'd her hand too,
Walkt with her half an hour.
1 Gent. She heard me sing,
And sung her self too; she sings admirably;
But still when any hope was, as 'tis her trick
To minister enough of those, then presently
With some new flam or other, nothing to the matter,
And such a frown, as would sink all before her,
She takes her Chamber; come, we shall not be the last fools.
2 Gent. Not by a hundred I hope; 'tis a strange wench.
Ant. This screws me up still higher.
Enter Celia, and Ladies behind her.
Men. Here she comes, Sir.
Ant. Then be you gone; and take the Women with ye, And lay those Jewels in her way.
Cel. If I stay longer
I shall number as many Lovers as Lais did;
How they flock after me! upon my Conscience,
I have had a dozen Horses given me this morning,
I'le ev'n set up a Troop, and turn She-souldier,
A good discreet wench now, that were not hidebound
Might raise a fine estate here, and suddenly:
For these warm things will give their Souls—I can go no where
Without a world of offerings to my Excellence:
I am a Queen, a Goddesse, I know not what—
And no constellation in all Heaven, but I out-shine it;
And they have found out now I have no eyes
Of mortal lights, but certain influences,
Strange vertuous lightnings, humane nature starts at,
And I can kill my twenty in a morning,
With as much ease now—
Ha! what are these? new projects?
Where are my honourable Ladies? are you out too?
Nay then I must buy the stock, send me good Carding:
I hope the Princes hands be not in this sport;
I have not seen him yet, cannot hear from him,
And that troubles me: all these were recreations
Had I but his sweet company to laugh with me:
What fellow's that? another Apparition?
This is the lovingst Age: I should know that face,
Sure I have seen't before, not long since neither.
Ant. She sees me now: O Heaven, a most rare creature!
Cel. Yes, 'tis the same: I will take no notice of ye,
But if I do not fit ye, let me fry for't;
Is all this Cackling for your egg? they are fair ones,
Excellent rich no doubt too; and may stumble
A good staid mind, but I can go thus by 'em;
My honest friend; do you set off these Jewels?
Ant. Set 'em off, Lady?
Cel. I mean, sell 'em here, Sir?
Ant. She's very quick; for sale they are not meant sure.
Cel. For sanctity I think much less: good even Sir.
Ant. Nay noble Lady, stay: 'tis you must wear 'em: Never look strange, they are worthy your best beauty.
Cel. Did you speak to me?
Ant. To you or to none living: To you they are sent, to you they are sacrificed.
Cel. I'le never look a Horse i'th' mouth that's given: I thank ye, Sir: I'le send one to reward ye.
Ant. Do you never ask who sent 'em?
Cel. Never I:
Nor never care, if it be an honest end,
That end's the full reward, and thanks but slubber it;
If it be ill, I will not urge the acquaintance.
Ant. This has a soul indeed: pray let me tell ye—
Cel. I care not if ye do, so you do it hansomly, And not stand picking of your words.
Ant. The King sent 'em.
Cel. Away, away, thou art some foolish fellow,
And now I think thou hast stole 'em too: the King sent 'em?
Alas good man, wouldst thou make me believe
He has nothing to do with things of these worths,
But wantonly to fling 'em? he's an old man,
A good old man, they say too: I dare swear
Full many a year ago he left these gambols:
Here, take your trinkets.
Ant. Sure I do not lye, Lady.
Cel. I know thou lyest extreamly, damnably: Thou hast a lying face.
Ant. I was never thus ratled.
Cel. But say I should believe: why are these sent me? And why art thou the Messenger? who art thou?
Ant. Lady, look on 'em wisely, and then consider
Who can send such as these, but a King only?
And, to what beauty can they be oblations,
But only yours? For me that am the carrier,
'Tis only fit you know I am his servant,
And have fulfil'd his will.
Cel. You are short and pithy; What must my beauty do for these?
_Ant. _Sweet Lady,
You cannot be so hard of understanding,
When a King's favour shines upon ye gloriously,
And speaks his love in these—
Cel. O then love's the matter;
Sir-reverence love; now I begin to feel ye:
And I should be the Kings Whore, a brave title;
And go as glorious as the Sun, O brave still:
The chief Commandress of his Concubines,
Hurried from place to place to meet his pleasures.
Ant. A devilish subtil wench, but a rare spirit. (dry,
Cel. And when the good old spunge had suckt my youth
And left some of his Royal aches in my bones:
When time shall tell me I have plough'd my life up,
And cast long furrows in my face to sink me.
Ant. You must not think so, Lady.
Cel. Then can these, Sir,
These precious things, the price of youth and beauty;
This shop here of sin-offerings set me off again?
Can it restore me chaste, young, innocent?
Purge me to what I was? add to my memory
An honest and a noble fame? The Kings device;
The sin's as universal as the Sun is,
And lights an everlasting Torch to shame me.
Ant. Do you hold so sleight account of a great Kings favour, That all knees bow to purchase?
Cel. Prethee peace: If thou knewst how ill favouredly thy tale becomes thee, And what ill root it takes—
Ant. You will be wiser.
Cel. Could the King find no shape to shift his pander into, But reverend Age? and one so like himself too?
Ant. She has found me out.
Cel. Cozen the world with gravity? Prethee resolve me one thing, do's the King love thee?
Ant. I think he do's.
Cel. It seems so by thy Office: He loves thy use, and when that's ended, hates thee: Thou seemest to me a Souldier.
Ant. Yes, I am one.
Cel. And hast fought for thy Country?
Ant. Many a time.
Cel. May be, commanded too?
Ant. I have done, Lady.
Cel. O wretched man, below the state of pity!
Canst thou forget thou wert begot in honour?
A free Companion for a King? a Souldier?
Whose Nobleness dare feel no want, but Enemies?
Canst thou forget this, and decline so wretchedly,
To eat the Bread of Bawdry, of base Bawdry?
Feed on the scum of Sin? fling thy Sword from thee?
Dishonour to the noble name that nursed thee?
Go, beg diseases: let them be thy Armours,
Thy fights, the flames of Lust, and their foul issues.
Ant. Why then I am a King, and mine own Speaker.
Cel. And I as free as you, mine own Disposer:
There, take your Jewels; let them give them lustres
That have dark Lives and Souls; wear 'em your self, Sir,
You'l seem a Devil else.
Ant. I command ye stay.
Cel. Be just, I am commanded.
Ant. I will not wrong ye.
Cel. Then thus low falls my duty.
Ant. Can ye love me? Say I, and all I have—
Cel. I cannot love ye;
Without the breach of faith I cannot hear ye;
Ye hang upon my love, like frosts on Lilies:
I can dye, but I cannot love: you are answer'd.
Ant. I must find apter means, I love her truly.
Enter Demetr. Leon. Lieu. Gent. Sould. and Host.
Dem. Hither do you say she is come?
Host. Yes Sir, I am sure on't:
For whilest I waited upon ye, putting my Wife in trust,
I know not by what means, but the King found her,
And hither she was brought; how, or to what end—
Dem. My Father found her?
Host. So my Wife informs me.
Dem. Leontius, pray draw off the Souldiers, I would a while be private.
Leon. Fall off Gentlemen, The Prince would be alone. [Ex. Leo and Soul.
Dem. Is he so cunning? There is some trick in this, and you must know it, And be an agent too: which if it prove so—
Host. Pull me to pieces, Sir.
Dem. My Father found her? My Father brought her hither? went she willingly?
Host. My Wife sayes full of doubts.
Dem. I cannot blame her, No more: there's no trust, no faith in mankind.
Enter Antigonus, Menippus, Leontius, and Souldiers.
Ant. Keep her up close, he must not come to see her: You are welcome nobly now, welcome home Gentlemen; You have done a courteous service on the Enemy Has tyed his Faith for ever; you shall find it; Ye are not now in's debt Son: still your sad looks? Leontius, what's the matter?
Leo. Truth Sir, I know not. We have been merry since we went.
Lieu. I feel it.
Ant. Come, what's the matter now? do you want mony? Sure he has heard o'th' wench.
Dem. Is that a want, Sir? I would fain speak to your Grace.
Ant. You may do freely.
Dem. And not deserve your anger?
Ant. That ye may too.
Dem. There was a Gentlewoman, and sometimes my prisoner, Which I thought well of Sir: your Grace conceives me.
Ant. I do indeed, and with much grief conceive ye;
With full as much grief as your Mother bare you.
There was such a Woman: would I might as well say,
There was no such, Demetrius.
Dem. She was vertuous, And therefore not unfit my youth to love her: She was as fair—
Ant. Her beauty I'le proclaim too, To be as rich as ever raign'd in Woman; But how she made that good, the Devil knows.
Dem. She was—O Heaven!
Ant. The Hell to all thy glories, Swallow'd thy youth, made shipwrack of thine honour: She was a Devil.
Dem. Ye are my father, Sir.
Ant. And since ye take a pride to shew your follies, I'le muster 'em, and all the world shall view 'em.
Leo. What heat is this? the Kings eyes speak his anger.
Ant. Thou hast abus'd thy youth, drawn to thy fellowship Instead of Arts and Arms, a Womans kisses, The subtilties, and soft heats of a Harlot.
Dem. Good Sir, mistake her not.
Ant. A Witch, a Sorceress:
I tell thee but the truth; and hear Demetrius,
Which has so dealt upon thy bloud with charms,
Devilish and dark; so lockt up all thy vertues;
So pluckt thee back from what thou sprungst from, glorious.
Dem. O Heaven, that any tongue but his durst say this!
That any heart durst harbour it! Dread Father,
If for the innocent the gods allow us
To bend our knees—
Ant. Away, thou art bewitch'd still; Though she be dead, her power still lives upon thee.
Dem. Dead? O sacred Sir: dead did you say?
Ant. She is dead, fool.
Dem. It is not possible: be not so angry,
Say she is faln under your sad displeasure,
Or any thing but dead, say she is banished,
Invent a crime, and I'le believe it, Sir.
Ant. Dead by the Law: we found her Hell, and her,
I mean her Charms and Spells, for which she perish'd;
And she confest she drew thee to thy ruine,
And purpos'd it, purpos'd my Empires overthrow.
Dem. But is she dead? was there no pity Sir? If her youth err'd, was there no mercy shown her? Did ye look on her face, when ye condemn'd her?
Ant. I look'd into her heart, and there she was hideous.
Dem. Can she be dead? can vertue fall untimely?
Ant. She is dead, deservingly she died.
Dem. I have done then.
O matchless sweetness, whither art thou vanished?
O thou fair soul of all thy Sex, what Paradise
Hast thou inrich'd and blest? I am your son, Sir,
And to all you shall command stand most obedient,
Only a little time I must intreat you
To study to forget her; 'twill not be long, Sir,
Nor I long after it: art thou dead Celia,
Dead my poor wench? my joy, pluckt green with violence:
O fair sweet flower, farewel; Come, thou destroyer
Sorrow, thou melter of the soul, dwell with me;
Dwell with me solitary thoughts, tears, cryings,
Nothing that loves the day, love me, or seek me,
Nothing that loves his own life haunt about me:
And Love, I charge thee, never charm mine eyes more,
Nor ne're betray a beauty to my curses:
For I shall curse all now, hate all, forswear all,
And all the brood of fruitful nature vex at,
For she is gone that was all, and I nothing— [Ex. & Gent.
Ant. This opinion must be maintained.
Men. It shall be, Sir.
Ant. Let him go; I can at mine own pleasure
Draw him to th' right again: wait your instructions,
And see the souldier paid, Leontius:
Once more ye are welcome home all.
All. Health to your Majesty. [Ex. Antig. &c.
Leo. Thou wentest along the journey, how canst thou tell?
Host. I did, but I am sure 'tis so: had I staid behind, I think this had not proved.
Leo. A Wench the reason?
Lieu. Who's that talks of a Wench there?
Leo. All this discontent About a Wench?
Lieu. Where is this Wench, good Colonel?
Leo. Prithee hold thy Peace: who calls thee to counsel?
Lieu. Why, if there be a Wench—
Leo. 'Tis fit thou know her:
Enter 2 Gentlemen.
That I'le say for thee, and as fit thou art for her,
Let her be mewed or stopt: how is it Gentlemen?
1 Gent. He's wondrous discontent, he'l speak to no man.
2 Gent. H'as taken his Chamber close, admits no entrance; Tears in his eyes, and cryings out.
Host. 'Tis so, Sir, And now I wish myself half hang'd ere I went this journey.
Leo. What is this Woman?
Lieu. I.
Host. I cannot tell ye, But handsome as Heaven.
Lieu. She is not so high I hope, Sir.
Leo. Where is she?
Lieu. I, that would be known.
Leo. Why, Sirrah.
Host. I cannot show ye neither; The King has now dispos'd of her.
Leo. There lyes the matter: Will he admit none to come to comfort him?
1 Gent. Not any near, nor, let 'em knock their hearts out, Will never speak.
Lieu. 'Tis the best way if he have her; For look you, a man would be loth to be disturb'd in's pastime; 'Tis every good mans case.
Leo. 'Tis all thy living,
We must not suffer this, we dare not suffer it:
For when these tender souls meet deep afflictions,
They are not strong enough to struggle with 'em,
But drop away as Snow does, from a mountain,
And in the torrent of their own sighs sink themselves:
I will, and must speak to him.
Lieu. So must I too: He promised me a charge.
Leo. Of what? of Children Upon my Conscience, thou hast a double company, And all of thine own begetting already.
Lieu. That's all one,
I'le raise 'em to a Regiment, and then command 'em,
When they turn disobedient, unbeget 'em:
Knock 'em o'th' head, and put in new.
Leo. A rare way; But for all this, thou art not valiant enough To dare to see the Prince now?
Lieu. Do ye think he's angry?
1 Gent. Extreamly vext.
2 Gent. To the endangering of any man comes near him.
1 Gent. Yet, if thou couldst but win him out, What e're thy suit were, Believe it granted presently.
Leo. Yet thou must think though, That in the doing he may break upon ye, And—
Lieu. If he do not kill me.
Leo. There's the question.
Lieu. For half a dozen hurts.
Leo. Art thou so valiant?
Lieu. Not absolutely so neither: no it cannot be, I want my impostumes, and my things about me, Yet I'le make danger, Colonel.
Leo. 'Twill be rare sport, Howe're it take; give me thy hand; if thou dost this, I'le raise thee up a horse Troop, take my word for't.
Lieu. What may be done by humane man.
Leo. Let's go then.
1 Gent. Away before he cool: he will relapse else. [Ex.
Enter Antigonus, Menippus, and Leucippe.
Ant. Will she not yield?
Leu. For all we can urge to her; I swore you would marry her, she laugh'd extreamly, And then she rail'd like thunder.
Ant. Call in the Magician. Enter Magician with a Bowl. I must, and will obtain her, I am ashes else. Are all the Philters in? Charms, Powders, Roots?
Mag. They are all in; and now I only stay The invocation of some helping Spirits.
Ant. To your work then, and dispatch.
Mag. Sit still, and fear not.
Leu. I shall ne'r endure these sights.
Ant. Away with the Woman: go wait without. [Exit.
Leu. When the Devil's gone, pray call me.
Ant. Be sure you make it powerful enough.
Mag. Pray doubt not— He Conjures.
Rise from the Shades below,
All you that prove
The helps of looser Love;
Rise and bestow
Upon this Cup, what ever may compel
By powerful Charm, and unresisted Spell,
A Heart un-warm'd to melt in Loves desires.
Distill into this Liquor all your fires:
Heats, longings, tears,
But keep back frozen fears;
That she may know, that has all power defied,
Art is a power that will not be denied.
The ANSWER.
I Obey, I Obey,
And am come to view the day,
Brought along, all may compel,
All the Earth has, and our Hell:
Here's a little, little Flower,
This will make her sweat an hour,
Then unto such flames arise,
A thousand joys will not suffice.
Here's the powder of the Moon,
With which she caught Endymion;
The powerful tears that Venus cryed,
When the Boy Adonis _dyed,
_Here's _Medea's Charm, with which
Jasons heart she did bewitch,
Omphale _this Spell put in,
When she made the Libyan spin.
This dull root pluckt from Lethe flood,
Purges all pure thoughts, and good.
These I stir thus, round, round, round,
Whilst our light feet beat the ground._
Mag. Now Sir, 'tis full, and whosoever drinks this
Shall violently doat upon your person,
And never sleep nor eat unsatisfied:
So many hours 'twill work, and work with Violence;
And those expired, 'tis done. You have my art, Sir.
Enter Leucippe.
Ant. See him rewarded liberally—Leucippe.
Here, take this bowl, and when she calls for Wine next,
Be sure you give her this, and see her drink it;
Delay no time when she calls next.
Leu. I shall, Sir.
Ant. Let none else touch it on your life.
Leu. I am charg'd, Sir.
Ant. Now if she have an antidote art let her 'scape me. [Exeunt.
Enter Leontius, Lieutenant, Gent.
1 Gent. There's the door, Lieutenant, if you dare do any thing.
Leo. Here's no man waits.
1 Gent. H' as given a charge that none shall, Nor none shall come within the hearing of him: Dare ye go forward?
Lieu. Let me put on my Skull first. My head's almost beaten into th' pap of an Apple. Are there no Guns i'th' door?
Leo. The Rogue will do it. And yet I know he has no Stomach to't.
Lieu. What loop-holes are there when I knock for stones, For those may pepper me? I can perceive none.
Leo. How he views the Fortification.
Lieu. Farewel Gentlemen, If I be kill'd—
Leo. We'll see thee buried bravely.
Lieu. Away, how should I know that then? I'll knock softly.
Pray heaven he speak in a low voice now to comfort me:
I feel I have no heart to't:—Is't well, Gentlemen?
Colonel, my Troop—
Leo. A little louder.
Lieu. Stay, stay; Here is a window, I will see, stand wide. By —— he's charging of a Gun.
Leo. There's no such matter. There's no body in this room.
Lieu. O 'twas a fire-shovel:
Now I'll knock louder; if he say who's there?
As sure he has so much manners, then will I answer him
So finely & demurely; my Troop Colonel— [knocks louder.
1 Gent. Knock louder, Fool, he hears not.
Lieu. You fool, do you. Do and you dare now.
1 Gent. I do not undertake it.
Lieu. Then hold your peace, and meddle with your own matters.
Leo. Now he will knock. [Knocks louder.
Lieu. Sir, Sir, will't please you hear Sir? Your Grace, I'll look again, what's that?
Leo. He's there now. Lord! How he stares! I ne'r yet saw him thus alter'd: Stand now, and take the Troop.
Lieu. Would I were in't,
And a good horse under me: I must knock again,
The Devil's at my fingers ends: he comes now.
Now Colonel, if I live—
Leo. The Troop's thine own Boy.
Enter Demetrius, a Pistol.
Dem. What desperate fool, ambitious of his ruine?
Lieu. Your Father would desire ye, Sir, to come to dinner.
Dem. Thou art no more.
Lieu. Now, now, now, now.
Dem. Poor Coxcomb: Why do I aim at thee? [Exit.
Leo. His fear has kill'd him.
Enter Leucippe with a Bowl.
2 Gent. I protest he's almost stiff: bend him and rub him, Hold his Nose close, you, if you be a woman, Help us a little: here's a man near perish'd.
Leu. Alas alas, I have nothing here about me. Look to my Bowl; I'll run in presently And fetch some water: bend him, and set him upwards.
Leo. A goodly man— [Exit. Here's a brave heart: he's warm again: you shall not Leave us i'th' lurch so, Sirrah.
2 Gent. Now he breaths too.
Leo. If we had but any drink to raise his Spirits. What's that i'th' Bowl? upon my life, good Liquor, She would not own it else.
1 Gent. He sees.
Leo. Look up Boy. And take this Cup, and drink it off; I'll pledge thee. Guide it to his mouth, he swallows heartily.
2 Gent. Oh! fear and sorrow's dry; 'tis off—
Leo. Stand up man.
Lieu. Am I not shot?
Leo. Away with him, and chear him: Thou hast won thy Troop.
Lieu. I think I won it bravely.
Leo. Go, I must see the Prince, he must not live thus; And let me hear an hour hence from ye. Well, Sir— [Exeunt Gent. and Lieu.
Enter Leucippe with water.
Leu. Here, here: where's the sick Gentleman?
Leo. He's up, and gone, Lady.
Leu. Alas, that I came so late.
Leo. He must still thank ye; Ye left that in a Cup here did him comfort.
Leu. That in the Bowl?
Leo. Yes truly, very much comfort, He drank it off, and after it spoke lustily.
Leu. Did he drink it all?
Leo. All off.
Leu. The Devil choak him; I am undone: h'as twenty Devils in him; Undone for ever, left he none?
Leo. I think not.
Leu. No, not a drop: what shall become of me now?
Had he no where else to swound? a vengeance swound him:
Undone, undone, undone: stay, I can lye yet
And swear too at a pinch, that's all my comfort.
Look to him; I say look to him, & but mark what follows. [Ex.
Enter Demetrius.
Leo. What a Devil ails the Woman? here comes the Prince again,
With such a sadness on his face, as sorrow,
Sorrow her self but poorly imitates.
Sorrow of Sorrows on that heart that caus'd it.
Dem. Why might she not be false and treacherous to me?
And found so by my Father? she was a Woman,
And many a one of that Sex, young and fair,
As full of faith as she, have fallen, and foully.
Leo. It is a Wench! O that I knew the circumstance.
Dem. Why might not, to preserve me from this ruine,
She having lost her honour, and abused me,
My father change the forms o'th' coins, and execute
His anger on a fault she ne'r committed,
Only to keep me safe? why should I think so?
She never was to me, but all obedience,
Sweetness, and love.
Leo. How heartily he weeps now!
I have not wept this thirty years, and upward;
But now, if I should be hang'd I cannot hold from't
It grieves me to the heart.
Dem. Who's that that mocks me?
Leo. A plague of him that mocks ye: I grieve truly,
Truly, and heartily to see you thus, Sir:
And if it lay in my power, gods are my witness,
Who e'r he be that took your sweet peace from you;
I am not so old yet, nor want I spirit—
Dem.No more of that, no more Leontius, Revenges are the gods: our part is sufferance: Farewell, I shall not see thee long.
Leo. Good Sir, tell me the cause, I know there is a woman in't; Do you hold me faithful? dare you trust your Souldier? Sweet Prince, the cause?
Dem. I must not, dare not tell it, And as thou art an honest man, enquire not.
Leo. Will ye be merry then?
Dem. I am wondrous merry.
Leo. 'Tis wondrous well: you think now this becomes ye.
Shame on't, it does not, Sir, it shews not handsomely;
If I were thus; you would swear I were an Ass straight;
A wooden ass; whine for a Wench?
Dem. Prithee leave me.
Leo. I will not leave ye for a tit.
Dem. Leontius?
Leo. For that you may have any where for six pence, And a dear penny-worth too.
Dem. Nay, then you are troublesome.
Leo. Not half so troublesom as you are to your self, Sir;
Was that brave Heart made to pant for a placket:
And now i'th' dog-days too, when nothing dare love!
That noble Mind to melt away and moulder
For a hey nonny, nonny! Would I had a Glass here,
To shew ye what a pretty toy ye are turn'd to.
Dem. My wretched Fortune.
Leo. Will ye but let me know her?
I'll once turn Bawd: go to, they are good mens offices,
And not so contemptible as we take 'em for:
And if she be above ground, and a Woman;
I ask no more; I'll bring her o' my back, Sir,
By this hand I will, and I had as lieve bring the Devil,
I care not who she be, nor where I have her;
And in your arms, or the next Bed deliver her,
Which you think fittest, and when you have danc'd your galliard.
Dem. Away, and fool to them are so affected: O thou art gone, and all my comfort with thee! Wilt thou do one thing for me?
Leo. All things i'th' World, Sir, Of all dangers.
Dem. Swear.
Leo. I will.
Dem. Come near me no more then.
Leo. How?
Dem. Come no more near me: Thou art a plague-sore to me. [Exit.
Leo. Give you good ev'n Sir; If you be suffer'd thus, we shall have fine sport. I will be sorry yet.
Enter 2 Gentlemen.
1 Gent. How now, how does he?
Leo. Nay, if I tell ye, hang me, or any man else That hath his nineteen wits; he has the bots I think, He groans, and roars, and kicks.
2 Gent. Will he speak yet?
Leo. Not willingly:
Shortly he will not see a man; if ever
I look'd upon a Prince so metamorphos'd,
So juggl'd into I know not what, shame take me;
This 'tis to be in love.
1 Gent. Is that the cause on't?
Leo. What is it not the cause of but bear-baitings?
And yet it stinks much like it: out upon't;
What giants, and what dwarffs, what owls and apes,
What dogs, and cats it makes us? men that are possest with it,
Live as if they had a Legion of Devils in 'em,
And every Devil of a several nature;
Nothing but Hey-pass, re-pass: where's the Lieutenant?
Has he gather'd up the end on's wits again?
1 Gent. He is alive: but you that talk of wonders, Shew me but such a wonder as he is now.
Leo. Why? he was ever at the worst a wonder.
2 Gent. He is now most wonderful; a Blazer now, Sir.
Leo. What ails the Fool? and what Star reigns now Gentlemen We have such Prodigies?
2 Gent. 'Twill pose your heaven-hunters;
He talks now of the King, no other language,
And with the King as he imagines, hourly.
Courts the King, drinks to the King, dies for the King,
Buys all the Pictures of the King, wears the Kings colours.
Leo. Does he not lye i'th' King street too?
1 Gent. He's going thither,
Makes prayers for the King, in sundry languages,
Turns all his Proclamations into metre;
Is really in love with the King, most dotingly,
And swears Adonis was a Devil to him:
A sweet King, a most comely King, and such a King—
2 Gent. Then down on's marrow-bones; O excellent King
Thus he begins, Thou Light, and Life of Creatures,
Angel-ey'd King, vouchsafe at length thy favour;
And so proceeds to incision: what think ye of this sorrow?
1 Gent. Will as familiarly kiss the King['s] horses As they pass by him: ready to ravish his footman.
Leo. Why, this is above Ela? But how comes this?
1 Gent. Nay that's to understand yet, But thus it is, and this part but the poorest, 'Twould make a man leap over the Moon to see him act these.
2 Gent. With sighs as though his heart would break: Cry like a breech'd boy, not eat a bit.
Leo. I must go see him presently, For this is such a gig, for certain, Gentlemen, The Fiend rides on a Fiddle-stick.
2 Gent. I think so.
Leo. Can ye guide me to him for half an hour? I am his To see the miracle.
1 Gent. We sure shall start him. [Exeunt.
Enter Antigonus and Leucippe.
Ant. Are you sure she drank it?
Leu. Now must I lye most confidently. Yes Sir, she has drunk it off.
Ant. How works it with her?
Leu. I see no alteration yet.
Ant. There will be, For he is the greatest Artist living made it. Where is she now?
Leu. She is ready to walk out, Sir.
Ant. Stark mad, I know she will be.
Leu. So I hope, Sir.
Ant. She knows not of the Prince?
Leu. Of no man living—
Ant. How do I look? how do my cloaths become me? I am not very grey.
Leu. A very youth, Sir,
Upon my maiden-head as smug as April:
Heaven bless that sweet face, 'twill undo a thousand;
Many a soft heart must sob yet, e'r that wither,
Your Grace can give content enough.
Enter Celia with a Book.
Ant. I think so.
Leu. Here she comes, Sir.
Ant. How shall I keep her off me? Go, & perfume the room: make all things ready. [Ex. Leu.
Cel. No hope yet of the Prince! no comfort of him!
They keep me mew'd up here, as they mew mad folks,
No company but my afflictions.
This royal Devil again! strange, how he haunts me!
How like a poyson'd potion his eyes fright me!
Has made himself handsome too.
Ant. Do you look now, Lady? You will leap anon.
Cel. Curl'd and perfum'd? I smell him; He looks on's legs too, sure he will cut a caper; God-a-mercy, dear December.
Ant. O do you smile now; I knew it would work with you; come hither pretty one.
Cel. Sir.
Ant. I like those courtesies well; come hither and kiss me.
Cel. I am reading, Sir, of a short Treatise here,
That's call'd the Vanity of Lust: has your Grace seen it?
He says here, that an Old Mans loose desire
Is like the Glow-worms light, the Apes so wonder'd at:
Which when they gather'd sticks, and laid upon't,
And blew, and blew, turn'd tail, and went out presently:
And in another place he calls their loves,
Faint Smells of dying Flowers, carry no comforts;
They're doting, stinking foggs, so thick and muddy,
Reason with all his beams cannot beat through 'em.
Ant. How's this? is this the potion? you but fool still; I know you love me.
Cel. As you are just and honest; I know I love and honour you: admire you.
Ant. This makes against me, fearfully against me.
Cel. But as you bring your power to persecute me,
Your traps to catch mine innocence to rob me,
As you lay out your lusts to overwhelm me,
Hell never hated good, as I hate you, Sir;
And I dare tell it to your face: What glory
Now after all your Conquests got, your Titles,
The ever-living memories rais'd to you,
Can my defeat be? my poor wrack, what triumph?
And when you crown your swelling Cups to fortune,
What honourable tongue can sing my story?
Be as your Emblem is, a g[l]orious Lamp
Set on the top of all, to light all perfectly:
Be as your office is, a god-like Justice,
Into all shedding equally your Vertues.
Ant. She has drencht me now; now I admire her goodness; So young, so nobly strong, I never tasted: Can nothing in the power of Kings perswade ye?
Cel. No, nor that power command me.
Ant. Say I should force ye? I have it in my will.
Cel. Your will's a poor one;
And though it be a King's Will, a despised one.
Weaker than Infants legs, your will's in swadling Clouts,
A thousand ways my will has found to check ye;
A thousand doors to 'scape ye, I dare dye, Sir;
As suddenly I dare dye, as you can offer:
Nay, say you had your Will, say you had ravish'd me,
Perform'd your lust, what had you purchas'd by it?
What Honour won? do you know who dwells above, Sir,
And what they have prepar'd for men turn'd Devils?
Did you never hear their thunder? start and tremble,
Death sitting on your bloud, when their fires visit us.
Will nothing wring you then do you think? sit hard here,
And like a Snail curl round about your Conscience,
Biting and stinging: will you not roar too late then?
Then when you shake in horrour of this Villainy,
Then will I rise a Star in Heaven, and scorn ye.
Ant. Lust, how I hate thee now! and love this sweetness! Will you be my Queen? can that price purchase ye?
Cel. Not all the World, I am a Queen already,
Crown'd by his Love, I must not lose for Fortune;
I can give none away, sell none away, Sir,
Can lend no love, am not mine own Exchequer;
For in anothers heart my hope and peace lies.
Ant. Your fair hands, Lady? for yet I am not pure enough To touch these Lips, in that sweet Peace ye spoke of. Live now for ever, and I to serve your Vertues—
Cel. Why now you show a god! now I kneel to ye;
This Sacrifice of Virgins Joy send to ye:
Thus I hold up my hands to Heaven that touch'd ye,
And pray eternal Blessings dwell about ye.
Ant. Vertue commands the Stars: rise more than Vertue; Your present comfort shall be now my business.
Cel. All my obedient service wait upon ye. [Ex. severally.
Enter Leontius, Gentlemen, and Lieutenant.
Leo. Hast thou clean forgot the Wars?
Lieu. Prithee hold thy peace.
1 Gent. His mind's much elevated now.
Leo. It seems so. Sirrah.
Lieu. I am so troubled with this Fellow.
Leo. He will call me Rogue anon.
1 Gent. 'Tis ten to one else.
Lieu. O King that thou knew'st I lov'd thee, how I lov'd thee. And where O King, I barrel up thy beauty.
Leo. He cannot leave his Sutlers trade, he woos in't.
Lieu. O never, King.
Leo. By this hand, when I consider—
Lieu. My honest friend, you are a little sawcy.
1 Gent. I told you you would have it.
Lieu. When mine own worth—
Leo. Is flung into the ballance, and found nothing.
Lieu. And yet a Soldier.
Leo. And yet a sawcy one.
Lieu. One that has followed thee.
Leo. Fair and far off.
Lieu. Fought for thy grace.
Leo. 'Twas for some grief, you lye Sir.
Lieu. He's the son of a whore denies this: will that satisfie ye?
Leo. Yes, very well.
Lieu. Shall then that thing that honours thee? How miserable a thing soever, yet a thing still; And though a thing of nothing, thy thing ever.
Leo. Here's a new thing.
2 Gent. He's in a deep dump now.
Leo. I'le fetch him out on't. When's the King's birth-day?
Lieu. When e're it be, that day I'le dye with ringing. And there's the resolution of a Lover. [Exit.
Leo. A goodly resolution sure I take it.
He is bewitch'd, or moop'd, or his brains melted,
Could he find no body to fall in love with; but the King,
The good old King, to doat upon him too?
Stay, now I remember, what the fat woman warn'd me,
Bid me remember, and look to him too:
I'le hang if she have not a hand in this: he's conjured,
Goe after him, I pity the poor Rascal,
In the mean time I'le wait occasion
To work upon the Prince.
2 Gent. Pray doe that seriously. [Ex. severally.
Enter Antigonus, Menippus, Lords.
Lord. He's very ill.
Ant. I am very sorry for't, And much ashamed I have wronged her innocence, Menippus, guide her to the Princes lodgings, There leave her to his love again.
Men. I am glad Sir.
Lord. He will speak to none.
Ant. O I shall break that silence; Be quick, take fair attendance.
Men. Yes Sir presently. [Exit.
Ant. He will find his tongue, I warrant ye; his health too; I send a physick will not fail.
Lord. Fair work it.
Ant. We hear the Princes mean to visit us In way of truce.
Lord. 'Tis thought so.
Ant. Come: let's in then, And think upon the noblest wayes to meet 'em. [Exeunt.
Enter Leontius.
Leo. There's no way now to get in: all the light stopt too;
Nor can I hear a sound of him, pray Heaven
He use no violence: I think he has more Soul,
Stronger, and I hope nobler: would I could but see once,
This beauty he groans under, or come to know
But any circumstance. What noise is that there?
I think I heard him groan: here are some coming;
A woman too, I'le stand aloof, and view 'em.
Enter Menippus, Celia, Lords.
Cel. Well, some of ye have been to blame in this point, But I forgive ye: The King might have pickt out too Some fitter woman to have tri'd his valour.
Men. 'Twas all to the best meant, Lady.
Cel. I must think so, For how to mend it now: he's here you tell me?
Men. He's Madam, and the joy to see you only Will draw him out.
Leo. I know that womans tongue,
I think I have seen her face too: I'le goe nearer:
If this be she, he has some cause of sorrow:
'Tis the same face; the same, most excellent woman.
Cel. This should be Lord Leontius: I remember him.
Leo. Lady, I think ye know me.
Cel. Speak soft, good Souldier:
I do, and know ye worthy, know ye noble;
Know not me yet openly, as you love me;
But let me see ye again, I'le satisfie ye:
I am wondrous glad to see those eyes.
Leo. You have charged me.
Cel. You shall know where I am.
Leo. I will not off yet:
She goes to knock at's door: This must be she
The fellow told me of: right glad I am on't,
He will bolt now for certain.
Cel. Are ye within Sir? I'le trouble you no more: I thank your courtesie, Pray leave me now.
All. Me. We rest your humble servants. [Ex. Me. &c.
Cel. So now my jives are off: pray Heaven he be here! Master, my royal Sir: do you hear who calls ye? Love, my Demetrius.
Leo. These are pretty quail-pipes, The Cock will Crow anon.
Cel. Can ye be drowsie, When I call at your Window?
Leo. I hear him stirring: Now he comes wondring out.
Enter Demetrius.
Dem. 'Tis Celias sound sure: The sweetness of that tongue draws all hearts to it; There stands the shape too.
Le[o]. How he stares upon her!
Dem. Ha? do mine eyes abuse me? 'Tis she, the living Celia: your hand Lady?
Cel. What should this mean?
Dem. The very self same Celia.
Cel. How do ye Sir?
Dem. Only turn'd brave. I heard you were dead my dear one, compleat, She is wondrous brave, a wondrous gallant Courtier.
Cel. How he surveyes me round? here has been foul play.
Dem. How came she thus?
Cel. It was a kind of death Sir, I suffered in your absence, mew'd up here, And kept conceal'd I know not how.
Dem. 'Tis likely: How came you hither Celia? wondrous gallant: Did my Father send for ye?
Cel. So they told me Sir, And on command too.
Dem. I hope you were obedient?
Cel. I was so ever.
Dem. And ye were bravely us'd?
Cel. I wanted nothing:
My maiden-head to a mote i'th' Sun, he's jealous:
I must now play the knave with him, though I dye for't,
'Tis in my nature.
Dem. Her very eyes are alter'd: Jewels, and rich ones too, I never saw yet— And what were those came for ye?
Cel. Monstrous jealous: Have I liv'd at the rate of these scorn'd questions? They seem'd of good sort, Gentlemen.
Dem. Kind men?
Cel. They were wondrous kind: I was much beholding to 'em; There was one Menippus Sir.
Dem. Ha?
Cel. One Menippus, A notable merry Lord, and a good companion.
Dem. And one Charinthus too?
Cel. Yes, there was such a one.
Dem. And Timon?
Cel. 'Tis most true.
Dem. And thou most treacherous: My Fathers bawds by——they never miss course; And were these daily with ye?
Cel. Every hour Sir.
Dem. And was there not a Lady, a fat Lady?
Cel. O yes; a notable good wench.
Dem. The Devil fetch her.
Cel. 'Tis ev'n the merriest wench—
Dem. Did she keep with ye too?
Cel. She was all in all; my bed-fellow, eat with me, Brought me acquainted.
Dem. You are well know[n] here then?
Cel. There is no living here a stranger I think.
Dem. How came ye by this brave gown?
Cel. This is a poor one:
Alas, I have twenty richer: do you see these jewels?
Why, they are the poorest things, to those are sent me,
And sent me hourly too.
Dem. Is there no modestie? No faith in this fair Sex?
Leo. What will this prove too? For yet with all my wits, I understand not.
Dem. Come hither; thou art dead indeed, lost, tainted;
All that I left thee fair, and innocent,
Sweet as thy youth, and carrying comfort in't;
All that I hoped for vertuous, is fled from thee,
Turn'd black, and bankrupt.
Leo. 'By'r Lady, this cuts shrewdly.
Dem. Thou art dead, for ever dead; sins surfeit slew thee;
The ambition of those wanton eyes betrai'd thee;
Go from me, grave of honour; go thou foul one,
Thou glory of thy sin; go thou despis'd one,
And where there is no vertue, nor no virgin;
Where Chastity was never known, nor heard of;
Where nothing reigns but impious lust, and looser faces.
Go thither, child of bloud, and sing my doating.
Cel. You do not speak this seriously I hope Sir; I did but jest with you.
Dem. Look not upon me, There is more hell in those eyes, than hell harbours; And when they flame, more torments.
Cel. Dare ye trust me? You durst once even with all you had: your love Sir? By this fair light I am honest.
Dem. Thou subtle Circe, Cast not upon the maiden light eclipses: Curse not the day.
Cel. Come, come, you shall not do this:
How fain you would seem angry now, to fright me;
You are not in the field among your Enemies;
Come, I must cool this courage.
Dem. Out thou impudence,
Thou ulcer of thy Sex; when I first saw thee,
I drew into mine eyes mine own destruction,
I pull'd into my heart that sudden poyson,
That now consumes my dear content to cinders:
I am not now Demetrius, thou hast chang'd me;
Thou, woman, with thy thousand wiles hast chang'd me;
Thou Serpent with thy angel-eyes hast slain me;
And where, before I touch'd on this fair ruine,
I was a man, and reason made, and mov'd me,
Now one great lump of grief, I grow and wander.
Cel. And as you are noble, do you think I did this?
Dem. Put all the Devils wings on, and flie from me.
Cel. I will go from ye, never more to see ye:
I will flie from ye, as a plague hangs o're me;
And through the progress of my life hereafter;
Where ever I shall find a fool, a false man,
One that ne're knew the worth of polish'd vertue;
A base suspecter of a virgins honour,
A child that flings away the wealth he cri'd for,
Him will I call Demetrius: that fool Demetrius,
That mad man a Demetrius; and that false man,
The Prince of broken faiths, even Prince Demetrius.
You think now, I should cry, and kneel down to ye,
Petition for my peace; let those that feel here
The weight of evil, wait for such a favour,
I am above your hate, as far above it,
In all the actions of an innocent life,
As the pure Stars are from the muddy meteors,
Cry when you know your folly: howl and curse then,
Beat that unmanly breast, that holds a false heart
When ye shall come to know, whom ye have flung from ye.
Dem. Pray ye stay a little.
Cel. Not your hopes can alter me.
Then let a thousand black thoughts muster in ye,
And with those enter in a thousand doatings;
Those eyes be never shut, but drop to nothing:
My innocence for ever haunt and fright ye:
Those arms together grow in folds; that tongue,
That bold bad tongue that barks out these disgraces.
When you shall come to know how nobly vertuous
I have preserv'd my life, rot, rot within ye.
Dem. What shall I doe?
Cel. Live a lost man for ever.
Go ask your Fathers conscience what I suffered,
And through what seas of hazards I sayl'd through:
Mine honour still advanced in spight of tempests,
Then take your leave of love; and confess freely,
You were never worthy of this heart that serv'd ye,
And so farewel ungratefull— [Exit.
Dem. Is she gone?
Leo. I'le follow her, and will find out this matter.— [Exit.
Enter Antigonus, and Lords.
Ant. Are ye pleas'd now? have you got your heart again? Have I restor'd ye that?
Dem. Sir even for Heaven sake, And sacred truth sake, tell me how ye found her.
Ant. I will, and in few words. Before I tri'd her,
'Tis true, I thought her most unfit your fellowship,
And fear'd her too: which fear begot that story
I told ye first: but since, like gold I toucht her.
Dem. And how dear Sir?
Ant. Heavens holy light's not purer:
The constancy and goodness of all women
That ever liv'd, to win the names of worthy,
This noble Maid has doubled in her: honour,
All promises of wealth, all art to win her,
And by all tongues imploy'd, wrought as much on her
As one may doe upon the Sun at noon day
By lighting Candles up: her shape is heavenly,
And to that heavenly shape her thoughts are angels.
Dem. Why did you tell me Sir?
Ant. 'Tis true, I err'd in't:
But since I made a full proof of her vertue,
I find a King too poor a servant for her.
Love her, and honour her; in all observe her.
She must be something more than time yet tells her:
And certain I believe him b[l]est, enjoyes her:
I would not lose the hope of such a Daughter,
To adde another Empire to my honour.— [Exit.
Dem. O wretched state! to what end shall I turn me?
And where begins my penance? now, what service
Will win her love again? my death must doe it:
And if that sacrifice can purge my follies,
Be pleas'd, O mightie Love, I dye thy servant— [Exit.
Enter Leontius, and Celia.
Leo. I know he do's not deserve ye; h'as us'd you poorly: And to redeem himself—
Cel. Redeem?
Leo. I know it— There's no way left.
Cel. For Heavens sake do not name him, Do not think on him Sir, he's so far from me In all my thoughts now, methinks I never knew him.
Leo. But yet I would see him again.
Cel. No, never, never.
Leo. I do not mean to lend him any comfort;
But to afflict him, so to torture him;
That even his very Soul may shake within him:
To make him know, though he be great and powerfull,
'Tis not within his aim to deal dishonourably,
And carry it off; and with a maid of your sort.
Cel. I must confess, I could most spightfully afflict him;
Now, now, I could whet my anger at him;
Now arm'd with bitterness, I could shoot through him;
I long to vex him.
Leo. And doe it home, and bravely.
Cel. Were I a man!
Leo. I'le help that weakness in ye: I honour ye, and serve ye.
Cel. Not only to disclaim me,
When he had seal'd his vowes in Heaven, sworn to me,
And poor believing I became his servant:
But most maliciously to brand my credit,
Stain my pure name.
Leo. I would not suffer it: See him I would again, and to his teeth too: Od's precious, I would ring him such a lesson—
Cel. I have done that already.
Leo. Nothing, nothing:
It was too poor a purge; besides, by this time
He has found his fault, and feels the hells that follow it.
That, and your urg'd on anger to the highest,
Why, 'twill be such a stroak—
Cel. Say he repent then,
And seek with tears to soften, I am a woman;
A woman that have lov'd him, Sir, have honour'd him:
I am no more.
Leo. Why, you may deal thereafter.
Cel. If I forgive him, I am lost.
Leo. Hold there then, The sport will be to what a poor submission— But keep you strong.
Cel. I would not see him.
Leo. Yes, You shall Ring his knell.
Cel. How if I kill him?
Leo. Kill him? why, let him dye.
Cel. I know 'tis fit so. But why should I that lov'd him once, destroy him? O had he scap't this sin, what a brave Gentleman—
Leo. I must confess, had this not faln, a nobler, A handsomer, the whole world had not show'd ye: And to his making such a mind—
Cel. 'Tis certain: But all this I must now forget.
Leo. You shall not If I have any art: goe up sweet Lady, And trust my truth.
Cel. But good Sir bring him not.
Leo. I would not for the honour ye are born to, But you shall see him, and neglect him too, and scorn him.
Cel. You will be near me then.
Leo. I will be with ye; Yet there's some hope to stop this gap, I'le work hard. [Ex.
Enter Antigonus, Menip. two Gent. Lieutenant, and Lords.
Ant. But is it possible this fellow took it?
2 Gent. It seems so by the violence it wrought with, Yet now the fits ev'n off.
Men. I beseech your Grace.
Ant. Nay, I forgive thy wife with all my heart,
And am right glad she drank it not her self,
And more glad that the vertuous maid escap't it,
I would not for the world 'thad hit: but that this Souldier,
Lord how he looks, that he should take this vomit;
Can he make rimes too?
2 Gent. H'as made a thousand Sir, And plaies the burthen to 'em on a Jews-trump,
Ant. He looks as though he were bepist: do you love me Sir?
Lieu. Yes surely even with all my heart.
Ant. I thank ye;
I am glad I have so good a subject: but pray ye tell me,
How much did ye love me, before ye drank this matter?
Lieu. Even as much as a sober man might; and a Souldier That your grace owes just half a years pay to.
Ant. Well remembred; And did I seem so young and amiable to ye?
Lieu. Methought you were the sweetest youth—
Ant. That's excellent.
Lieu. I truly Sir: and ever as I thought on ye, I wished, and wished—
Ant. What didst thou wish prethee?
Lieu. Ev'n, that I had been a wench of fifteen for ye, A handsom wench Sir.
Ant. Why? God a Mercy Souldier: I seem not so now to thee.
Lieu. Not all out: And yet I have a grudging to your grace still.
Ant. Thou wast never in love before?
Lieu. Not with a King,
And hope I shall never be again: Truly Sir,
I have had such plunges, and such bickrings,
And as it were such runnings atilt within me,
For whatsoever it was provok't me toward ye.
Ant. God a-mercy still.
Lieu. I had it with a vengeance, It plaid his prize.
Ant. I would not have been a wench then, Though of this age.
Lieu. No sure, I should have spoil'd ye.
Ant. Well, goe thy waies, of all the lusty lovers That e're I saw—wilt have another potion?
Lieu. If you will be another thing, have at ye.
Ant. Ha, ha, ha: give me thy hand, from henceforth thou art my souldier, Do bravely, I'le love thee as much.
Lieu. I thank ye; But if you were mine enemy, I would not wish it ye: I beseech your Grace, pay me my charge.
2 Gent. That's certain Sir;
Ha's bought up all that e're he found was like ye,
Or any thing you have lov'd, that he could purchase;
Old horses, that your Grace has ridden blind, and foundr'd;
Dogs, rotten hawks, and which is more than all this,
Has worn your Grace's Gauntlet in his Bonnet.
Ant. Bring in your Bills: mine own love shall be satisfi'd; And sirrah, for this potion you have taken, I'le point ye out a portion ye shall live on.
Men. 'Twas the best draught that e're ye drunk.
Lieu. I hope so.
Ant. Are the Princes come to th' Court?
Men. They are all, and lodg'd Sir.
Ant. Come then, make ready for their entertainment, Which presently we'l give: wait you on me Sir.
Lieu. I shall love drink the better whilst I live boyes. [Exeunt.
_Enter Demetrius, and Leontius.
Dem. Let me but see her, dear Leontius; Let me but dye before her.
Leo. Would that would doe it:
If I knew where she lay now, with what honestie,
You having flung so main a mischief on her,
And on so innocent and sweet a Beauty,
Dare I present your visit?
Dem. I'le repent all: And with the greatest sacrifice of sorrow, That ever Lover made.
Leo. 'Twill be too late Sir: I know not what will become of you.
Dem. You can help me.
Leo. It may be to her sight: what are you nearer?
She has sworn she will not speak to ye, look upon ye,
And to love ye again, O she cries out, and thunders,
She had rather love—there is no hope—
Dem. Yes Leontius,
There is a hope, which though it draw no love to it,
At least will draw her to lament my fortune,
And that hope shall relieve me.
Leo. Hark ye Sir, hark ye: Say I should bring ye—
Dem. Do [not] trifle with me?
Leo. I will not trifle; both together bring ye, You know the wrongs ye' done.
Dem. I do confess 'em.
Leo. And if you should then jump into your fury, And have another querk in your head.
Dem. I'le dye first.
Leo. You must say nothing to her; for 'tis certain, The nature of your crime will admit [no] excuse.
Dem. I will not speak, mine eyes shall tell my penance.
Leo. You must look wondrous sad too.
Dem. I need not look so, I am truly sadness self.
Leo. That look will do it:
Stay here, I'le bring her to you instantly:
But take heed how you bear your self: sit down there,
The more humble you are, the more she'l take compassion.
Women are per'lous thing[s] to deal upon. [Exit.
Dem. What shall become of me? to curse my fortune,
Were but to curse my Father; that's too impious;
But under whatsoever fate I suffer,
Bless I beseech thee heaven her harmless goodness.
Enter Leontius, and Celia.
Leo. Now arm your self.
Cel. You have not brought him?
Leo. Yes faith, And there he is: you see in what poor plight too, Now you may doe your will, kill him, or save him.
Cel. I will goe back.
Leo. I will be hang'd then Lady, Are ye a coward now?
Cel. I cannot speak to him.
Dem. O me.
Leo. There was a sigh to blow a Church down; So, now their eyes are fixt, the small shot playes, They will come to th' batterie anon.
Cel. He weeps extreamly.
Leo. Rail at him now.
Cel. I dare not.
Leo. I am glad on't.
Cel. Nor dare believe his tears.
Dem. You may, blest beauty, For those thick streams that troubled my repentance, Are crept out long agoe.
Leo. You see how he looks.
Cel. What have I to doe how he looks? how lookt he then, When with a poisoned tooth he bit mine honour? It was your counsel too, to scorn and slight him.
Leo. I, if ye saw fit cause; and you confest too,
Except this sin, he was the bravest Gentleman,
The sweetest, noblest: I take nothing from ye,
Nor from your anger; use him as you please:
For to say truth, he has deserved your justice;
But still consider what he has been to you.
Cel. Pray do not blind me thus.
Dem. O Gentle Mistris,
If there were any way to expiate
A sin so great as mine, by intercession,
By prayers, by daily tears, by dying for ye:
O what a joy would close these eyes that love ye.
Leo. They say women have tender hearts, I know not, I am sure mine melts.
Cel. Sir, I forgive ye heartily,
And all your wrong to me I cast behind me,
And wish ye a fit beauty to your vertues:
Mine is too poor, in peace I part thus from you;
I must look back: gods keep your grace: he's here still. [Ex.
Dem. She has forgiven me.
Leo. She has directed ye:
Up, up, and follow like a man: away Sir,
She lookt behind her twice: her heart dwells here Sir,
Ye drew tears from her too: she cannot freeze thus;
The door's set open too, are ye a man?
Are ye alive? do ye understand her meaning?
Have ye bloud and spirit in ye?
Dem. I dare not trouble her.
Leo. Nay, and you will be nip't i'th' head with nothing,
Walk whining up and down; I dare not, I cannot:
Strike now or never: faint heart, you know what Sir—
Be govern'd by your fear, and quench your fire out.
A Devil on't, stands this door ope for nothing?
So get ye together, and be naught: now to secure all,
Will I go fetch out a more soveraign plaister. [Exeunt.
Enter Antigonus, Seleucus, Lysimachus, Ptolomy, Lieutenant, Gentlemen, Lords.
Ant. This peace is fairly made.
Seleu. Would your Grace wish us
To put in more: take what you please, we yield it;
The honour done us by your son constrains it,
Your noble son.
Ant. It is sufficient, Princes; And now we are one again, one mind, one body, And one sword shall strike for us.
Lys. Let Prince Demetrius But lead us on: for we are his vowed servants; Against the strength of all the world we'l buckle.
Ptol. And even from all that strength we'l catch at victory.
Sel. O had I now recover'd but the fortune I lost in Antioch, when mine Unckle perish'd; But that were but to surfeit me with blessings.
Lys. You lost a sweet child there.
Sel. Name it no more Sir;
This is no time to entertain such sorrows;
Will your Majesty do us the honour, we may see the Prince,
And wait upon him?
Enter Leon.
Ant. I wonder he stayes from us: How now Leontius, where's my son?
Sel. Brave Captain.
Lys. Old valiant Sir.
Leo. Your Graces are welcom:
Your son and't please you Sir, is new cashiered yonder,
Cast from his Mistris favour: and such a coil there is;
Such fending, and such proving; she stands off,
And will by no means yield to composition:
He offers any price; his body to her.
Sel. She is a hard Lady, denies that caution.
Leo. And now they whine, and now they rave: faith Princes,
'Twere a good point of charity to piece 'em;
For less than such a power will doe just nothing:
And if you mean to see him, there it must be,
For there will he grow, till he be transplanted.
Sel. Beseech your grace, let's wait upon you thither, That I may see that beauty dares deny him, That scornfull beauty.
Ptol. I should think it worse now; Ill brought up beauty.
Ant. She has too much reason for't; Which with too great a grief, I shame to think of, But we'll go see this game.
Lys. Rather this wonder.
Ant. Be you our guide Leontius, here's a new peace. [Ex.
Enter Demetrius and Celia.
Cel. Thus far you shall perswade me, still to honour ye,
Still to live with ye, Sir, or near about ye;
For not to lye, you have my first and last love:
But since you have conceiv'd an evil against me,
An evil that so much concerns your honour,
That honour aim'd by all at for a pattern:
And though there be a false thought, and confest too,
And much repentance faln in showrs to purge it;
Yet, whilest that great respect I ever bore ye,
Dwells in my bloud, and in my heart that duty;
Had it but been a dream, I must not touch ye.
Dem. O you will make some other happy?
Cel. Never, Upon this hand I'le seal that faith.
Dem. We may kiss, Put not those out o'th' peace too.
Cel. Those I'le give ye,
So there you will be pleas'd to pitch your ne ultra,
I will be merry with ye; sing, discourse with ye,
Be your poor Mistris still: in truth I love ye.
Enter Leontius, Antigonus, Seleucus, Lysimachus, Ptolomie, Lieutenant, and Gentleman.
Dem. Stay, who are these?
Lys. A very handsom Lady.
Leo. As e're you saw.
Sel. Pity her heart's so cruel.
Lys. How does your Grace? he stands still, will not hear us.
Ptol. We come to serve ye, Sir, in all our fortunes.
Lys. He bows a little now; he's strangely alter'd.
Sel. Ha? pray ye a word Leontius, pray ye a word with ye, Lysimachus? you bo'th knew mine Enanthe, I lost in Antioch, when the Town was taken, Mine Uncle slain, Antigonus had the sack on't?
Lys. Yes, I remember well the Girl.
Sel. Methinks now That face is wondrous like her: I have her picture, The same, but more years on her; the very same.
Lys. A Cherry to a Chery is not liker.
Sel. Look on her eyes.
Leo. Most certain she is like her: Many a time have I dandled her in these arms, Sir, And I hope who will more.
Ant. What's that ye look at, Pr[in]ces?
Sel. This Picture, and that Lady, Sir.
Ant. Ha! they are near: They only err in time.
Lys. Did you mark that blush there? That came the nearest.
Sel. I must speak to her.
Leo. You'll quickly be resolved.
Sel. Your name sweet Lady?
Cel. Enanthe, Sir: and this to beg your blessing.
Sel. Do you know me?
Cel. If you be the King Seleucus, I know you are my Father.
Sel. Peace a little, Where did I lose ye?
Cel. At the Sack of Antioch,
Where my good Unckle di'd, and I was taken,
By a mean Souldier taken: by this Prince,
This noble Prince, redeem'd from him again,
Where ever since I have remain'd his Servant.
Sel. My joys are now too full: welcome Enanthe, Mine own, my dearest, and my best Enanthe.
Dem. And mine too desperate.
Sel. You shall not think so, This is a peace indeed.
Ant. I hope it shall be, And ask it first.
Cel. Most Royal Sir, ye have it.
Dem. I once more beg it thus.
Sel. You must not be deny'd, Sir.
Cel. By me, I am sure he must not: sure he shall not; Kneeling I give it too; kneeling I take it; And from this hour, no envious spight e're part us.
All. The gods give happy joyes; all comforts to ye.
Dem. My new Enanthe.
Ant. Come, beat all the Drums up,
And all the noble instruments of War:
Let 'em fill all the Kingdom with their sound,
And those the brazen Arch of Heaven break through,
While to the Temple we conduct these two.
Leo. May they be ever loving, ever young, And ever worthy of those lines they sprung; May their fair issues walk with time along.
Lieu. And hang a Coward now; and there's my song. [Exeunt.
* * * * *
Prologue.
Would some man would instruct me what to say
For this same Prologue, usual to a Play,
Is tied to such an old form of Petition;
Men must say nothing now beyond commission:
The Cloaks we wear, the Leggs we make, the place
We stand in, must be one; and one the face.
Nor alter'd nor exceeded; if it be,
A general hisse hangs on our levitie:
We have a Play, a new Play to play now,
And thus low in our Playes behalf we bow;
We bow to beg your suffrage, and kind ear;
If it were naught, or that it might appear,
A thing buoy'd up by prayer, Gentlemen,
Believe my faith, you should not see me then.
Let them speak then have power to stop a storm:
I never lov'd to feel a House so warm:
But for the Play if you dare credit me,
I think it well: All new things you shall see,
And these disposed to all the mirth that may;
And short enough we hope: and such a Play
You were wont to like: sit nobly then, and see:
If it miscarry, pray look not for me.
* * * * *
Epilogue,
Spoke by the Lieutenant.
I am not cur'd yet throughly; for believe
I feel another passion that may grieve,
All over me I feel it too: and now
It takes me cold, cold, cold, I know not how:
As you are good men help me, a Carowse
May make me love you all, all here i'th' house,
And all that come to see me doatingly;
Now lend your hands; and for your courtesie,
The next imployment I am sent upon,
I'le swear you are Physicians, the War's none.
(A) The First Folio.
(B) The Second Folio.
(C) The Manuscript dated Novemb. 27. 1625.
This MS. is a beautiful specimen of Ralph Crane's caligraphy. It is bound in vellum, with gilt lines and a gilt design on the cover. The following particulars are written on a leaf before the title-page:—
'K. Digby Margrit This Manuscript belonged to the celebrated Sir Kenelm Digby. His grand-daughter (one of the daughters & co-heiresses of his eldest son, John Digby) was married to Richard Mostyn Esq're of Penbedw in Denbighshire, & their daughter & coheiress to Richard Williams Esq., my Great Grandfather. Thro' this connection of my family with that of Digby, several of Sir Kenelm's books & Manuscripts have come into my possession. Wm W.E. Wynne. given by W.W.E. Wynne Esqre to me W. Ormsby Gore April 8. 1837.'
The title-page is as follows:—
'Demetrius and Enanthe, a pleasant Comedie written by John Fletcher gent.'
Surrounding the title are rough decorations drawn in ink in the form of corkscrew scrolls.
The following dedication is written on the leaf following the title-page:—
To the honorable
Sir
Kelham Digbie
Knight.
Worthie Sir.
I know, that to a Man of your religious Inclination, a devine Argument would have byn much more Wellcom; And such a one (good Sir) have I upon the Anvile for you, but it requires some-what a more Consolatorie time to fashion it: Being therefore by the Wise-mans rule (That sales there is a time for all thinges) encouraged, I hope it will not be much in-oportune, after a Season so sad, to present you with a Matter Recreative. Well knowing, that you that know well how to bestow all your howers, will (in yo'r release from higher Studies) not think a litle peece of time lost, in casting, upon this Comedie, yo'r Smile, and upon him, that (in all dutie) submits it to yo'r generous Acceptaunce, your Noble Favo'r, as upon one that shall still rejoyce to be esteemed Your Commaunded Beades-man Ralph Crane. Novemb. 27. 1625.
p. 281, Omitted in C. Also omitted in A save the title, The Humourous Lieutenant. l. 34. B misprints] Evanthe.
p. 282, l. 2. C] 2 Gent. Ushers, & Servants with. l. 3. C omits] quick. l. 6. C] 'pray ye tell. l. 7. C] Mornings. l. 8. C omits] Lord. C] you should live. l. 11. C] are off the. A] are of the. l. 12. Omitted in C. l. 13. C adds] (make all things perfect) would you have theis Ladies, they that come here to see the Show, theis Beuties (Enter 2. or that have byn labouring to sett-off their Sweetnes, (3. Ladies and washed, and curld; perfum'd, and taken Glisters, for feare a flaw of wind might over-take 'em, loose theis, and all theire expectations? l. 19. C] eie. l. 20. C] and where. l. 22. C] shall survey their. l. 26. C] Enter divers Cittizens, & their wives. ll. 28 and 29. C gives these 2 ll. simply to Citt. l. 36. Omitted in C. A] was as like.
p. 283, ll. 1 and 2. Omitted in C. l. 6. C] he is. l. 7. Omitted in C. l. 9. C] Enter Celia, (in poore attire). l. 13. C] are lost too. l. 14. C] mine eies. l. 16. C] dores. l. 22. C omits] Death. l. 24. C omits] a Devil…mine honestie? and adds]
Cel. I crave your mercy: I meant no such thing to ye: but if ye were a Gentleman:
2. alas (poore woman:) 'pray doe not thrust her soe:
Cel. nay: even continue: and doe not let your Office fall (Sir) I beseech ye: for want of Indiscretion, and ill-manners; you would have made a notable sturdy Beadle:
1. She must goe out:
Cel. I am out already (Sir) out of my witts, you say: 'pray heaven it prove not; if this fell ffitt afflict me.
l. 29. C] Agent for the. l. 32. C]
of Gentleman and did forgive that hereditary folly belongs to your Place: but now, etc.
l. 37. C omits] one.
p. 284, l. 8. C] in Gibbitts. l. 9. C] par'lous. l. 14. C] Showes are past ye. A] shews are past. l. 18. C] merry, (Sir). l. 23. C] you deare (Sir). l. 32. C. gives the first three words to 1 Ush. l. 33. C] Antigonus: and his Traine.
p. 285, l. 2. C's stage direction reads Enter ye Embassadors. from Seleucus, Lysimachus, & Ptolomey: l. 7. C] Greivances? and omits l. 8. ll. 13 and 14. C prints (not like…open Enemie) after ye' have hedg'd in and omits as. l. 17. C] bloody Roades. l. 18. C adds]
2. Emb. We therefore, as yet the ministers of Peace, of ffriendship, as yet our MASTERS Swords, and Angers sleeping, all former Injuries forgot, and buried, as yet to stop that swelling tide of Blood, (O mightie Sir) that when it comes, like Tempests broke from the raging North, beates all before 'em. We yet crave restitution of those Lands, those Citties sackd*, those PRISONERS, and that PREY, the Soldiers, by your will, stands Master of; Thinck, etc.
l. 19. B] love great, Sir. l. 20. C] you late held. A] hold. l. 31. C omits stage direction. l. 32. C adds]
or War, (though rather I could afford your Age, so much discretion to leave off brawling now);* The Wars are doubtfull, and on Our Horsemens Staves, Death lookes as grimly as on your keene-edgd Swords: Our darts sure pointed, and from Our sinowye Bowes, we can raise showres of bloody Shaffts, shall hide the face of heaven, and cast as deepe Ecclipzes ore the day, and terrible, as yours: Our Strengthes are equall; Our hopes, as high, and wanton: Even our Men the same in Labours, and in Sufferance: Hunger they dare contemne, as well as yours, and where they find no Meate, feed on their Angers, march on the edge of danger; Rest and Sleepe, (the soules of soft, and tender Bodies) they shake off, as well as yours: And when tyrde Nature locks up their Spiritts, yet like Stormes, farr off, even in their Rest, they raise a warlike Murmurr, we come prepard for either. {Enter Prince Demetrius {from hunting: attended {wth yong Gentlemen.
l. 35. C] trembles. l. 36. C] It's He.
p. 286, l. 6. A gives Gent to the end of this line, not to line 5. l. 11. C] MASTERS lives. l. 18. A comma has been added at end of line. l. 25. C] now a god speakes. A] Now 'a speakes. l. 35. A and C] at his best. l. 40. C] MUNITION: Or must.
p. 287, l. 3. C] must they. l. 4. A] same field. l. 6. C] their desires. l. 9. A] mortall thinge. l. 18. C] it's. l. 19. A and C] make. l. 20. C] 'pray and so throughout. l. 22. C] 'pray ye. l. 25. C] to 'ye. l. 29. C] 'pre-thee and so throughout. l. 37. C omits] Madam, my service— l. 38. A] and 't. ll. 39 and 40. C omits] 2.
p. 288, l. 1. A gives this line to Cel. l. 6. C] ffare ye well. l. 13. C omits] 3. l. 14. C omits] yet. l. 18. C] answeares. l. 25. C] 1. Emb. l. 31. C omits] Gentlemen. l. 34. C] beg that. l. 36. C] growne weake, and old.
p. 289, l. 1. B] yer. l. 5. C] teach me. l. 11. C] O blesse. l. 22. C omits] 2. l. 26. C omits] now. l. 29. A] thinkes. l. 36. A and C] a wing.
p. 290, l. 6. B] ned. l. 7. C] beleeve't. l. 27. C] a wanton. ll. 28, 29 and 30. C]
Ant. did not you mark a Woman my Sonne risse to?
Gent. I saw her Sir
Ant. doe you know her?
Gent, noe; beleeve't, Sir:
ll. 28-36. A]
Ant. She must be known & suddenly; when you have done Come in and take your leave sir, and some few Prayers along.
Ant. [sic] Do ye know her?
Gent. Char. No, beleeve sir.
Ant. Did you observe her Tymon?
Tym. I look'd on her, But what she is—
Ant. I must have that found.
Tym. Well sir
ll. 35 and 36. C]
Tim. well Sir: Ant. When you have done come in, and take your leave Sir, some fewe praires along.—Ext.
p. 291. C omits l. 9. l. 11. C] see her. l. 16. C gives this line to Leo. l. 21. C] Coronall. l. 26. A] Th'allarums. C] the Allarums of soft vowes, and fightes and fidle-fadles. l. 31. C] Enter y'e Leiuetenant. l. 35. C] hath serv'd. l. 36. C] and trayld a. l. 37. C] so honorbled.
p. 292, l. 18. C] 'not a pangue. l. 20. C] should be all. l. 29. C] that hath. l. 30. C] hath taken. l. 38. C] stay us.
p. 293, l. 9. C] noe 'beleeve' Sir. l. 18. C omits] Sir. l. 39. C] unles 'twas.
p. 294, l. 4. C] y'ar. l. 38. C adds stage direction] Droms beate.
p. 295, l. 14. C adds stage direction] Droms agen. l. 16. C omits stage direction. l. 18. C] fye on. l. 29. C adds] Exeunt severally. l. 31. C] and Timon.
p. 296, ll. 2-4. C adds]
should never be imploid; how are you certaine she is a stranger?
Tim. being so yong, and handsome, and not made privy to your Graces pleasures for I presume under your gracious favo'r you have not yet (Sir.)
Ant. what (Sir?)
Tim. as they say (Sir) made any salley on her, or delighted your roiall body;
Ant. you prate like a coxcombe.
Tim. sure I thinck I doe (Sir) But (howsoever) I speake with in my compasse; in theis matters that concerne partie, and partie, and no farther, that reach but to the meere instruction and garnishing of youth:
Ant. you'll hold your prating?
Tim. I know not: for theis twentie yeares, I am sure on't, (I thinck theis five and twenty) I have serv'd ye, and serv'd ye with as good, and gratious pleasure, like a true Subject, ever cautulous that nothing you receivd from me, to sport ye, but should endure all tests, and all translations: I thinck I have don soe: and I thinck I have fitted yee: and if a coxcomb can doe theis things handsomer:
Ant. Wellcom Minippus. {Enter Minippus.
l. 27. C] confident. l. 30. C gives this line to Car. l. 31. C] there's,
p. 297, l. 1. B] groose. l. 7. C] Enter Demetrius, and Leontius. l. 30. C] I live to know. l. 36. C] sure if.
p. 298, l. 4. C] hang out. l. 7. C] as your. l. 8. C] that know. ll. 10 and 11. C transposes these two ll. l. 12. C] hath sent. l. 17. C] I see ye. l. 29. C] 'pray ye doe. l. 35. C] designes it.
p. 299, l. 2. C] we are mawld. l. 8. C] so thrashd. l. 11. C] on my…about. l. 14. C] Coronall and so throughout, with variations of spelling. l. 18. C] over. l. 30. A by mistake gives this line to Leo. C. omits l. 31. l. 33. C] in peeces. l. 36. C] he hath. l. 37. C] Julipps. l. 38. C gives this line to Dem. l. 39. C] noe: noe: hang him.
p. 300, l. 5. C] dampnable. l. 13. C adds] Exit. l. 21. C omits this line and gives the following line to Leo. l. 24. C] Enter Leucippe, and her Maides, writing. l. 25. C] Mariane. l. 35. C] peevish, very peevish. l. 36. C] and the.
p. 301, l. 1. C adds stage direction] she turnes over a Booke. l. 19. C] those. l. 33. C] The Chamber next to th' Parck. l. 34. C] 2. Maid. l. 35. A and C] bid. l. 37. C] besides, she is. A] beside. l. 39. C omits one Thisbee. A misprints it This.
p. 302, l. 8. C omits stage direction. l. 9. C] follow your. l. 11. adds stage direction] she turnes over y'e Booke. l. 19. C omits stage direction. l. 22. A] and 't. l. 28. C] come heather. l. 33. C] your helpe. l. 38. C omits stage direction. l. 39. C] Maid.
p. 3O3, l. 1. C for Phe reads Girle. l. 3. C omits stage direction. l. 5. C puts I'll…action in parentheses. l. 7. C] Who's that there? and omits stage direction. l. 10. B] Menippe. l. 12. C] if you were. l. 14. C] o' th'. l. 32. C] thou wert.
p. 304, l. 8. C] will yet work, without Barme (boy). l. 12. C] Enter Antigonus, and a Soldier; wth Attendants. l. 18. C] 'faith. A] discretion. l. 20. C] and ye Leiutenant. l. 22. A] Lord Men. A and B] Grace—s. l. 27. C] backs. l. 29. C] by heaven.
p. 305, l. 11. A] say truth. l. 25. C] 'chaunce. l. 30. C omits this line. l. 35. C] but I.
p. 306, l. 5. C] and would. l. 18. C] a joyfull showt. Enter Gentlemen. l. 19. C] He doth. l. 20. B] top? l. 28. C] Gent. l. 34. A and C] for heaven sake. l. 39. C] all take.
p. 307, l. 3. C] stood then before. l. 11. C] that ye. l. 14. C] I give. l. 15. C omits this line. l. 20. C] if 'twer. l. 22. C] ev'n…ev'n that pure blessing. l. 25. C] still (Sir?). l. 28. C] Gent. l. 31. C gives this line to Gent. l. 35. C] 'mercie upon ye. l. 36. C] ayle ye? 'pray doe. A] ayle ye…'death. l. 40. C] did ye.
p. 308, ll. 1 and 2. C] 'beate…'beate. l. 3. A and C] has. l. 9. C] strake. l. 10. C] dost not thou. l. 12. C gives this line to Leo. and the next only to Dem. l. 17. C] 'has beat. A] h'as. l. 19. C omits this line. l. 35. C] now ye.
p. 309, l. 12. C] where 't please you, as ye march. l. 15. C] and there. l. 28. C] a goodly company. l. 34. C] your musty whore; you Rogue.
p. 310, l. 1. C] by this good light I'll. l. 2. C] 'strange. l. 3. C] have that. l. 5. C] out upon thee. l. 16. C] and Hostisse. l. 27. C] there is. l. 32. C] blesse him. l. 38. C] o'th'.
p. 311, l. 8. C] heaven knowes, the. l. 21. C] Minippus and so throughout. l. 34. C] an hundred. l. 37. C omits] on.
p. 312, l. 13. C] her be more. l. 17. C] and Hostesse and so throughout. l. 18. C] from whence. l. 21. C] you knew. l. 27. C] doth it.
p. 313, l. 1. C] a Trap. l. 3. C] how I begin to sweatt now? l. 7. C] out upon it. l. 8. C] 'twas. ll. 26-28 are not in C. l. 29. C] I dare not cursse him? ll. 31-34 are not in C. l. 37. C] in the' ie (Lady). l. 40 is not in C.
p. 314, l. 1 is not in C. l. 14. C] beshrew thy hart, why. ll. 18 and 19. C]
his angry will, if ere he come to know this as he shall.
l. 21. C] too sencibly. ll. 22 and 23. C]
no stale Stuff, for your money-Marts; that sent it? who dares…dar'st.
l. 34. C] how doth he? l. 35. C] oh, my head: my head.
p. 315, l. 1. A] did a'. l. 21 is not in C, but see below. l. 23. C]
Hos. you'll find I said soe:
I say it must be: the more my greif (heaven knowes)
I hope etc.
l. 25. C] art' sure. l. 27. C] (she is mightie crafty. A] peilous crafty. l. 33. C] whilst the.
p. 316, l. 3. C]
(now the devill's in her) he's etc.
l. 13. C] Leontius running after him: Drums within. l. 23. A and C] doe but make. l. 28. C] 'faith. l. 31. C] art' not thou he? l. 37. C] ye' have found the cause on't.
p. 317, l. 8. B] so see. l. 9. C] thou fight no more. l. 10. C] in the. l. 11. C] nere. l. 19. C] heaven deliver me. l. 11. C] Sirha. l. 24. C] provocatives. l. 30. C] a' devill. l. 31. C] provoake ye. l. 36. C] mary' that. l. 37. C] Enter Gentlemen. l. 39. C] hath 'hedgd. A] has.
p. 318, l. 3. C] he hath. l. 4. C omits] Sir. l. 11. C] help. l. 23. C omits] 2. l. 25. C adds another] quickly. l. 26. C] run…thicke. C gives this line to Lieu. and the next to Leo. l. 31. C] I'll bate thee one: goe winck, and fight: for shame. l. 38. C] a tird Girole. l. 39. C omits] 2.
p. 319, l. 1. C] why that, (Sir) that: doe. l. 2. C omits] 2. ll. 10 and 11. C]
I thanck thee: A] God a mercy,
I thanck thee, with. God a mercy with.
l. 17. C] argument: a toy: l. 18. C omits this line. l. 21. C] I'll nere. l. 23. C] fit ye. l. 24. C] upon's. l. 25. C] who doth best: (Boyes.)
p. 320, l. 1. C] how doth she her coming? l. 11. C] she hath. l. 14. C] she hath…they fitt. l. 17. C] and others. l. 18. A omits] Ant. l. 21. A] sung to it. l. 22. C] Eies (by heaven) they kill on. l. 33. C] 'pray ye where's. l. 37. C] there was.
p. 321, l. 16. C] Ladies. l. 17. C] not trouble ye. l. 20. A and C] of such. l. 28. C] on my.
p. 322, l. 12. C omits] now. l. 25. C] Gentlemen. l. 26. C] sure I. l. 33. C] and of a.
p. 323, l. 2. C] and Gentlemen. l. 19. C] a flotten. ll. 24-26 are omitted in C. l. 34. C omits] 'Life.
p. 324, l. 9. C adds a fourth ha. l. 12. C omits] 2. l. 15. C gives this line to 1 Phis and the next to 2 Phis. l. 21. C] did not I. l. 23. C] he's. l. 34. C] and other Gentlemen.
p. 325, l. 3. C] our Watches. l. 5. C] 'faith. l. 8. C] yet: I see he. l. 9. C omits] too. l. 11. C] beleeve'. l. 18. C] such a Hell…rise to. l. 22. C] he's fairly. l. 24. A and C] Doctor. l. 26. C omits] 2. l. 31. C omits stage direction. l. 36. C adds stage direction] he drinks. 2. Kans.
p. 326, l. 3. B misprints] remembrace. l. 7. C] Will performd. l. 9. C] Wine begins to tickle. l. 12. C] a Drom beates. l. 13. C] one sung. l. 15. C] Song? l. 18. C omits] 2. ll. 20 and 21. A] dare ye…dare ye. l. 25. C] 'bove. l. 28. C gives this line to Dem. ending with Sore? and adds 'tis true (Sir) to the beginning of Phis. l. 34. C]
Phis. I know he's weake: but yet his hart's whole.
p. 327, l. 2. C gives this line to Dem. l. 6. C] how the. l. 8. C omits] away, away, away. l. 10. C] and Soldiers. l. 24. C adds] Alarum within. l. 31. C] who charges.
p. 328, l. 2. C] here five. l. 5. A and C] a-peeces. l. 11. C] Did I not. l. 12. C adds] Exeunt. ll. 13 and 14. C] Enter ye Leiutenant…driving Soldier before him. l. 15. C] coxcomb. l. 23. C omits] and…Gentlemen. l. 25. C] men. l. 29. C] he's hurt shrewdly. l. 30. C] these.
p. 329, l. 2. C omits] 2. l. 6. C adds] Ext. l. 9. C]
yet: Come Leontius Let's now up to theis Conquerors: they are our owne.
l. 17. C adds] say: a Trompet: The stage direction Enter a Trompet and a Harrold is 2 or 3 lines higher in C. l. 25. C] Enter Seleucus Lismachus and Ptolomey. l. 29. C] Honours. l. 34. C] Dem. that will not doe it. l. 35. C has Leontius at the end, not the beginning, of the line.
p. 330, l. 3. A] such prizes. l. 5. C] to doe. l. 14. C] Mans. l. 16. C] easie price. l. 31. C] our comfort.
p. 331, l. 29. C] by heaven it. l. 31. C] Lis. Ptol. l. 32. C omits this line and the stage direction on the following line. l. 36. C omits this line and adds Exet.
p. 332, l. 5. A] And yet when she is as free, and when she is courted. C] and yet She is, as free, and when she is courted. l. 19. C omits] or Lords. ll. 22 and 23. C gives these two lines to_ 1. Gent. l. 25. C] and those. l. 27. C] never see so…frozen. l. 34. C] sings daintely. l. 37. A] th' matter.
p. 333, l. 5. C] Enter Celia wth Ladies. l. 10. C] Loves as Lay's. l. 15. C] State. l. 16. C] nowhether. l. 21. C] no mortall. l. 27. C] 'send. l. 28. A and C] hand. l. 30. A and C] that: that.
p. 334 l. 16. C] be to an. l. 17. A and C] slubbers. l. 26. C] nothing els to.
p. 335, l. 16. C] hath suckd. l. 29. C] so light. l. 39. C] 'pree-thee…doth the. l. 40. C] he doth.
p. 336, l. 7. C] 'may. l. 8. C] I have soe (Lady). l. 17. C] be thine. l. 18. C] the flames. l. 36. C] Enter Demetrius: Leontius: Gent: Soldiers: ye Host (talking wth Demetrious).
p. 337, l. 1. A and C] on ye. l. 9. C gives Exeunt as the sole stage direction. l. 18. C] There is. l. 19. C] Leontius, etc. l. 23. C] hath. l. 26. C] 'faith Sir. l. 30. C] he hath. l. 39. C] bore ye. A] bare me.
p. 338, l. 21. A and C] a Sorcerer. l. 23. C] which hath. l. 26. A by mistake omits Dem. and reads In heaven. l. 37. A] and doe believe.
p. 339, l. 3. C] shew'd. l. 5. C] upon her. l. 26. C omits] and Gent. l. 30. C] Wayt you. l. 33. C] your Highnes.
p. 340, l. 8. C] discontent: Will speake. l. 9. C omits] 2 Gent. C] hath taken. A] Has. l. 17. C] she's not. l. 22. C] hath now. l. 24. C] none come. l. 30. C] thy life. l. 34. C] but drip…Snow doth.
p. 341, l. 4. A and C] and there. l. 6. C] in now. l. 16. C] yet you. l. 31. C] reneage els. A] the coole: he will revenge els. l. 36. A] I swore I.
p. 342, l. 1. C] Enter a Magitian wth a Bowle in his hand. l. 3. A and C] Powders. A gives this line to Mag. l. 8. C] never. l. 10. C omits] Exit. l. 12. C's stage direction runs: He seems to Conjure: sweett Musick is heard, and an Antick of litle Fayeries enter and dance about ye Bowle and fling in things, and Ext. C omits the Song and the Answer. l. 16. A] loose. ll. 19 and 20. A comma and a full stop have been transposed after Spell and desires. l. 28. A] view e're day. l. 30. A] and one.
P. 343, l. 14. C omits this line. l. 17. A prefaces with Lew (char.), l. 22. C omits] art. l. 24. Omitted from B in error. l. 25. C] Gent. and Leiutenant. l. 38. C] has given. l.33. A gives this line to Leo.
p. 344, l. 1. C] ffortifications. l. 5. C omits] Away. l. 12. C] beware he's. A gives this line to Leo. l. 14. A gives this line to Lieut. l. 17. C omits] him. l. 18. C omits stage direction. l. 20. C] doesoe: l. 21. C] Doe if ye. l. 24. C omits stage direction. l. 34. C] owne, Boy. l. 35. C] w'th a. l. 39. C adds stage direction] he swounds.
p. 345, l. 2. C] Exit Dem. l. 4. C omits] with a Bowl. l. 5. C gives this line to Leo. and reads] alas, he's. C omits] 2. l. 10. A and C] Waters. l. 11. C gives this line to Leo. l. 13. A gives this line to 2 Gent. l. 14. C omits] 2. l. 15. C gives this line to Gent. l. 22. C omits] 2. l. 26. C] won the. ll. 30 and 31. C] Gent. well Sir—ex't.—Enter Leucippe. l. 36. C] in the.
p. 346, l. 1. C] after that. l. 5. C] has. A] 'has. l. 13. C omits] Ex. l. 18. C] that rais'd it. l. 26. C] o' th' crimes. l. 32. C] theis thirty…upwards. A] these. l. 33. C] from it. l. 36. C] shame light on him…greive hartely.
p. 347, l. 5. C]
for heaven-sake tell…in it.
l. 13. C] fye on't, it doth. l. 17. A] for a fit. l. 33. C] on my.
p. 348, l. 2. C] and of. l. 4. C] I will, by heaven. l. 8. C] a hart-sore. l. 9. C] even. l. 11. C] be sorer. l. 12. C] Enter Gent. l. 16. C] and wrings, and. l. 17. C omits] 2. l. 27. C] with't. l. 28. C] as they. l. 31. C] ends. ll. 35 and 38. C omits] 2. l. 36. A] fooles. l. 38. C] 'twill passe.
p. 349, l. 4. A and C] King's-streete. l. 8. C] with 'King. l. 11. A and C] mary-bones. l. 13. C] vouchsaffe a wight thy. l. 14. C] this ffellow. l. 15. B] King. l. 16. C] ffooteman. l. 19. C] 2. Gent. l. 21. C] act this. l. 22. C] 1. Gent, will sigh…and cry. l. 25. C] Jigg. l. 27. C omits] 2. l. 28. A and C] to him? for half an howre I.
p. 350, l. 11. C] Maidenhood. l. 12. C] Gods blesse. l. 15. C adds] in her hand. l. 19. C omits stage direction. l. 24. C] Potion? his eies affright me. l. 36. C] hath your.
p. 351, l. 4. C] their doatings. l. 5. C] his braines. C omits] 'em. l. 10. C] this works. l. 13. C] Lust. l. 21. B misprints] gorious. l. 25. C] admire for Goodnes. l. 33. C] Infants cries: your Sin's in. l. 36. C omits] can.
p. 352, l. 2. C] Death sitts upon our Blood. l. 4. C] Snake) curld. l. 5. C] will not you. l. 16. C] those. l. 24. C omits] severally. l. 26. C] Leiutenant, and Gent. A omits] and. l. 30. A] It serves so. l. 38. C] oh sweet King.
p. 353, ll. 1 and 2. C]
Leo. by thy leave: Leiu. when I consider (my honest ffrend etc.
l. 7. C] a scurvy. l. 11. C] for your…sirha. l. 18. C omits] 2. l. 19. C adds at end of line] (Gent.) l. 23. C] are melted. l. 27. C] bid me. l. 28. C] He is. l. 32. C omits] 2. C omits] severally. l. 33. C begins Actus Quintus: Sce'a. pri'a. here. l. 34. C] Minippus: Gent. l. 35. C] Gent. and so throughout. l. 37. A] wronged his.
p. 354, l. 5. C] Attendants. l. 11. C] in Vow. l. 15. C] Sce'a. 2'a. l. 17. C] There is…Lights. A] lights. l. 25. C] Enter Celia Minippus Etc. l. 32. C] Gent.
p. 355, l. 5. C] doe not know me. l. 17. C] Min. C omits] Me. etc. l. 22. A] The Corke. A and C] will come. l. 31. B misprints] Leu. l. 39. C omits] gallant.
p. 356, l. 10. A] And one command. l. 16. A and C] him, to dye. l. 17. A] in me nature. l. 36. C] by heaven.
p. 357, l. 6. B] know. l. 15. C] prove to. l. 21. C] turnd black. l. 29. C] but ffalsehood, and loose. A] but imperious lust, and losers faces. l. 39. A and C] Circes.
p. 358, l. 12. C] thousand waies. l. 18. C] thy Devills. l. 34. C] thy muddy. l. 40. A] back thoughts.
p. 359, l. 3. C] Mine. l. 11. C] and in. l. 18. C omits] and Lords. l. 21. A] heavens.
p. 360, l. 4. B] best. l. 8. C] begin. l. 12. C] Sce'a. 3'a. l. 14. C] he doth. l. 19. C] heaven-sake. l. 30. A] I most confesse. l. 32. C] now (and with.
p. 361, l. 12. C] followes. l. 36. C] all these.
p. 362, l. 2. C] you should. l. 6. C] Sce'a. 4'a. Enter Antigonus: Gent. Leiueten't, etc. l. 9. C omits] 2. l. 13. C] drunck. l. 18. C] Gent. has. A] 'Has. l. 26. C] owes yet. l. 33. A and C] I pree-thee. l. 36. C] why I thanck thee (Soldier).
p. 363, l. 5. C] nor I hope I. l. 8. C] towards. l. 9. C] I thanck thee still. l. 18. C omits] Ha, ha, ha. l. 23. C omits] 2. l. 24. A] Has. l. 27. A] rosten hawkes. l. 38. C] while.
p. 364, l. 1. C] Sce'a. 5'a. l. 9. C] can I. l. 26. B misprints] not not. l. 28. C] y' have don. l. 34. B] admit to excuse.
p. 365, l. 5. B misprints] thing. l. 13. C] yes' faith. l. 31. C] are drop'd. l. 34. A] poisoned truth.
p. 366, l. 1. C] he has. l. 5. C] any hope. l. 15. C] god's. l. 21. C] left open. ll. 27 and 28. C transposes these two ll. l. 32. C]
Sce'a. 6'a. Enter Antigonus: Seleuchus, Ptolomy.
Lisimachus: Gent. Leiueten't. etc.
p. 367, l. 3. C] once againe. l. 21. C] old valiant Soldier. l. 22. C] are all wellcom. l. 23. C] (and't please your Grace) is cassheird. l. 27. C] any Peace. l. 29. C] 'faith. l. 34. C] 'beseech.
p. 368, l. 5. C] Sce'a. 7'a. l. 13. C] that be. l. 24. A and C] your Ultra. ll. 27 and 28. C]
Enter Antigonus Seluchus Lysimachus Ptolomy
Leontus Leiuten't. etc.
l. 28. A omits] and. l. 36. C] 'pray a.
p. 369, l. 2. C] Antiochus. l. 10. C omits] have. l. 12. C omits] Princes. B misprints] Prnices. l. 17. C gives this line to Sel. l. 35. A] Cel. l. 40. C] I once more next [instead of beg it thus].
p. 370, l. 9. C] sound. l. 10. C] beat through. l. 16. C adds] Finis. C omits] Prologue and Epilogue.
p. 371, l. 1. A] And those. l. 6. A omits] Spoke by the Lieutenant. l. 13. A] comes.
(A) The | Faithfull | Shepherdesse. | By John Fletcher. | Printed at
London for R. Bonian | and H. Walley, and are to be sold at | the spred
Eagle over against the | great North dore of S. Paules. Undated, but
probably 1609-10.
(B) The same, with slight differences in the Commendatory Verses and in one or two other sheets.
(C) The | Faithfull | Shepherdesse. | By John Fletcher. | The second Edition, newly corrected. | London, | Printed by T.C. for Richard Meighen, | in S't Dunstanes Church-yard in Fleet-streete, | 1629.
(D) The | Faithfull | Shepherdesse. | acted at Somerset | House before the King and | Queene on Twelfe night | last, 1633. | And divers times since with great ap- | plause at the Private House in Blacke- | Friers, by his Majesties Servants. | Written by John Fletcher. | The third Edition, with Addition. | London, | Printed by A.M. for Richard Meighen, next | to the Middle Temple in Fleet- | street. 1634.
(E) The | Faithfull | Shepherdesse. | Acted at Somerset | House before the King and | Queen on Twelf night | last, 1633. | And divers times since, with great ap- | plause, at the Private House in Black- | Friers, by his Majesties Servants. | Written by John Fletcher. | The Fourth Edition. | London, | Printed for Ga. Bedell and Tho. Collins, at the Middle | Temple Gate in Fleet-street. 1656.
(F) The | Faithfull | Shepherdesse. | Acted at | Somerset-House, | Before the King and Queen on | Twelfth night, 1633. | And divers times since, with great | Applause, at the Private House in | Black-Friers, by his Majesties | Servants. | Written by John Fletcher. | The Fifth Edition. | London, | Printed for G. Bedell and T. Collins, at the Middle | Temple- Gate in Fleet-street, 1665.
The verso of the title-page bears the date March 3, 1664/5.
Licensed,
Roger L'Estrange.
As neither the Second Folio nor the Quartos print any list of the
Characters it may be as well to give one here.
Perigot. Old Shepherd.
Thenot. Priest of Pan.
Daphnis. God of the River.
Alexis. Satyr.
Sullen Shepherd. Shepherds.