LOVE CURE OR, The Martial Maid. Love’s Cure or the Martial Maid LOVE CURE OR The Martial Maid HIE0434

Source text for this digital edition:
Fletcher, John; Beaumont, Francis. Love's Cure, or The Martial Maid. Revised by Philip Massinger. In: Comedies and tragedies written by Francis Beaumont and Iohn Fletcher. 1647. In: Mueller, Martin (gen. ed.) Shakespeare His Contemporaries Northwestern University. [Accessed: 28 October 2016]

Note on this digital edition

This electronic transcription comes from the original-spelling text in the Shakespeare His Contemporaries project, which offers curated versions of texts from Early English Books Online - Text Creation Partnership. It differs in textual corrections (detailed in the appendix) made with reference to the transcription in the English Drama collection published by Chadwyck-Healey, and in assigning role identifiers to speakers. This curation has been carried out by Sonia Sofía Perelló.
The SHC source text has been re-encoded by Jesús Tronch Pérez in order to be used in the databases of the EMOTHE project and of the HIERONIMO project.
As from October 2017 the Shakespeare His Contemporaries site is obsolete and its project is incorporated into EarlyPrint.

With the support of research project GVAICO2016-094, funded by Generalitat Valenciana (2016-2017).

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LOVES CURE OR, The Martial Maid.

Actus Primus

Scaena Prima.

Enter Vitelli, Lamorall, Anastro.

Vitelli.

ALvarez pardon'd?

Ana.

And return'd.

Lamo.

I saw him land

At St. Lucars, and such a generall welcome

Fame, as harbinger to his brave actions,

Had with the easie people, prepard for him,

At if by his command alone, and fortune

Holland with those low Provinces, that hold out

Against the Arch-Duke, were again compel'd

With their obedience to give up their lives

To be at his devotion.

Vit.

You amaze me,

For though I have heard, that when he fled from Civill

To save his life (then forfeited to Law

For murthering Don Pedro my deer Uncle)

His extreame wants inforc'd him to take pay

In th'Army sat down then before Ostena,

'Twas never yet reported, by whose favour

He durst presume to entertain a thought

Of comming home with pardon.

Ana.

'Tis our nature

Or not to hear, or not to give beliefe

To what we wish far from our enemies.

Lam.

Sir 'tis most certaine the Infantas letters

Assisted by the Arch-Dukes, to King Philip

Have not alone secur'd him from the rigor

Of our Castillian Justice, but return'd him

A free man, and in grace.

Vit.

By what curs'd meanes

Could such a fugitive arise unto

The knowledge of their highnesses? much more

(Though known) to stand but in the least degree

Of favour with them?

Lam.

To give satisfaction

To your demand, though to praise him I hate,

Can yeild me small contentment, I will tell you,

And truly, since should I detract his worth,

'T would argue want of merit in my self.

Briefly, to passe his tedious pilgrimage

For sixteene years, a banish'd guilty-man,

And to forget the stormes, th'affrights, the horrors

His constancy, not fortune overcame,

I bring him, with his little son, grown man

(Though 'twas said here he took a daughter with him)

To Ostends bloody seige that stage of war

Wherein the flower of many Nations acted,

And the whole Christian world spectators were;

There by his son, or were he by adoption

Or nature his, a brave Scene was presented,

Which I make choyce to speak of, since from that

The good successe of Alvarez, had beginning,

Vil.

So I love vertue in an enemy

That I desire in the relation of

This young mans glorious deed, you'ld keep your self

A friend to truth, and it.

Lam

Such was my purpose;

The Town being oft assaulted, but in vaine,

To dare the prow'd defendants to a sally,

Weary of ease, Don Inigo Peralta

Son to the Generall of our Castile forces

All arm'd, advanc'd within shot of their wals,

From whence the muskateers plaid thick upon him,

Yet he (brave youth) as carelesse of the danger,

As carefull of his honor, drew his sword,

And waving it about his head, as if

He dar'd one spirited like himself, to triall

Of single valor, he made his retreat

With such a slow, and yet majestique pace,

As if he still cald low'd, dare none come on?

When sodainly from a posterne of the town

Two gallant horse-men issued, and o're-took him,

The army looking on, yet not a man

That durst relieve the rash adventurer,

Which Lucio, son to Alvarez then seeing,

As in the vant-guard he sat bravely mounted,

Or were it pity of the youths misfortune,

Care to preserve the honour of his Country,

Or bold desire to get himselfe a name,

He made his brave horse, like a whirle wind bear him,

Among the Combatants: and in a moment

Dischar'd his Petronell, with such sure aime

That of the adverse party from his horse,

One tumbled dead, then wheeling round, and drawing

A faulchion swift as lightning, he came on

Upon the other, and with one strong blow

In view of the amazed Town, and Campe

He strake him dead, and brought Peralta off

With double honour to himselfe.

Vit.

'Twas brave:

But the successe of this?

Lam.

The Campe receiv'd him

With acclamations of joy and welcome,

And for addition to the faire reward

Being a massy chain of gold given to him

By yong Peralta's Father, he was brought

To the Infantas presence kiss'd her hand,

And from that Lady, (greater in her goodnesse

Then her high birth) had this encouragement

Go on youngman; yet not to feed thy valour

100

With hope of recompence to come, from me,

For present satisfaction of what's past,

Aske any thing that's fit for me to give,

And thee to take, and be assur'd of it.

Ana.

Excellent princesse.

Vit.

105

And stil'd worthily

The heart bloud, nay the soule of Souldiers.

But what was his request?

Lam.

That the repeale

Of Alvarez, makes plaine: he humbly begd

110

His Fathers pardon, and so movingly

Told the sad story of your uncles death

That the Infanta wept, and instantly

Granting his suit, working the Arch-duke to it,

Their Letters were directed to the King,

115

With whom they so prevaild, that Alvarez

Was freely pardon'd.

Vit.

'Tis not in the King

To make that good.

Ana.

Not in the King? what subject

120

Dares contradict his power?

Vit.

In this I dare,

And wil: and not call his prerogative

In question, nor presume to limit it.

I know he is the Master of his Lawes,

125

And may forgive the forfeits made to them,

But not the injury done to my honour;

And since (forgeting my brave Uncles merits

And many services, under Duke D' Alva)

He suffers him to fall, wresting from Justice

130

The powerfull sword, that would revenge his death,

I'le fill with this Astrea's empty hand,

And in my just wreake, make this arme the Kings,

My deadly hate to Alvarz, and his house,

Which as I grew in years, hath still encreas'd,

135

As if it cal'd on time to make me man,

Slept while it had no object for her fury

But a weak woman, and her talk'd of Daughter:

But now, since there are quarries, worth her sight

Both in the father, and his hopefull son,

140

I'le boldly cast her off, and gorge her full

With both their hearts: to further which your friendship,

And oathes will your assistance, let your deedes

Make answer to me; uselesse are all words

Till you have writ performance with your Swords.

Exeunt.

Scaena Secunda.

Enter Bobadilla, and Lucio

Luc.

145

Go fetch my work: this ruffe was not well starch'd,

So tell the maid, 'thas too much blew in it,

And look you that the Partrich and the Pullen

Have cleane meat, and fresh water, or my Mother

Is like to hear on't.

Bob.

150

O good Sir Iaques helpe me: was there ever such an Hermaphrodite heard of? would any wench living, that should hear and see what I do, be wrought to believe, that the best of a man lies under this Petticoate, and that a Cod-peece were far fitter here, then a pind-Placket?

Luc.

You had best talk filthily: do; I have a tongue

To tell my Mother, as well as ears to heare

Your ribaldry.

Bob.

May you have ten womens tongues that way I am sure: why my yong Mr. or Mistris, Madam, Don or what you wil, what the devill have you to do with Pullen, or Partrich? or to sit pricking on a clowt all day? you have a better needle, I know, and might make better work, if you had grace to use it.

Luc.

155

Why, how dare you speak this before me, sirha?

Bob.

Nay rather, why dare not you do what I speak? — though my Lady your mother, for fear of Vitelli and his faction, hath brought you up like her daughter, and h'as kept you this 20 year, which is ever since you were born, a close prisoner within dores, yet since you are a man, and are as wel provided as other men are, me thinks you should have the same motions of the flesh, as other Cavaliers of us are inclin'd unto.

Luc.

Indeed you have cause to love those wanton motions,

They having hope you to an excellent whipping,

For doing something, I but put you in mind of it,

160

With the Indian mayd, the governour sent my mother

From Mexico.

Bob.

Why, I but taught her a Spanish trick in charity, and holp the King to a subject that may live to take grave Maurice prisoner, and that was more good to the State, then a thousand such as you are ever like to do: and I wil tell you, (in a fatherly care of the Infant I speak it) if he live (as blesse the babe, in passion I remember him) to your years, shall he spend his time in pinning, painting, purling, and perfuming as you do? no, he shall to the wars, use his Spanish Pike, though with the danger of the lash, as his father has done, and when he is provoked, as I am now, draw his Toledo desperatly, as —

Luc.

You will not Kill me? oh.

Bob.

I knew this would silence him: how he hides his eys?

165

If he were a wench now, as he seems, what an advantage

Had I, drawing two Toledos, when one can do this?

But oh me, my Lady: I must put up: young Master

I did but jest. O custom, what ha'st thou made of him?

Enter Eugenia, and Servants.

Eug.

For bringing this, be still my friend; no more

170

A servant to me.

Bob.

What's the matter?

Eug.

Here,

Even here where I am happy to receive

Assurance of my Alvarez returne,

175

I wil kneell down: and may those holy thoughts

That now possesse me wholy, make this place

a Temple to me, where I may give thanks

For this unhop'd for blessing Heavens Kind hand

Hath pour'd upon me.

Luc.

180

Let my duty Madam

Presume, if you have cause of joy, to entreat

I may share in it.

Bob.

'Tis well, he has forgot how I frighted him yet.

Eug.

Thou shalt: but first kneel with me Lucio,

185

No more Post bumina now, thou hast a Father,

A Father living to take off that name,

Which my too credulous fears, that he was dead,

Bestow'd upon thee: thou shalt see him Lucio,

And make him young again, by seeing thee,

190

Who only hadst a being in my Womb

When he went from me, Lucio: O my joyes,

So far transport me, that I must forget

The ornaments of Matrons, modesty,

And grave behaviour; but let all forgive me

195

If in th'expression of my soules best comfort

Though old, I do a while forget mine age,

And play the wanton in the entertinement

Of those delights I have so long despair'd of.

Luc.

Shall I then see my Father?

Eug.

200

This houre Lucio;

Which reckon the begining of thy life

I mean that life, in which thou shalt appeare

To be such as I brought thee forth: a man,

This womanish disguise, in which I have

205

So long conceal'd thee, thou shalt now cast off,

And change those qualities thou didst learn from me,

For masculine virtues, for which seek no tutor,

But let thy fathers actions be thy precepts;

And for thee Zancho, now expect reward

210

For thy true service.

Bob.

Shall I? you hear fellow Stephano, learne to know me more respectively; how do'st thou think I shall become the Stewards chaire ha? will not these slender hanches show well with a chaine, and a gold night-Cap after supper when I take the accompts?

Eug.

Haste, and take down those blacks, with which my chamber

Hath like the widow, her sad Mistris, mourn'd,

And hang up for it, the rich Persian arras,

215

Us'd on my wedding night: for this to me

Shall be a second marriage: send for Musique,

And will the cooks to use their best of cunning

To please the palat.

Bob.

Will your Ladiship have a Potato-pie, tis a good stirring dish for an old Lady, after a long Lent.

Eug.

220

Be gon I say: why sir, you can go faster?

Bob.

I could Madam: but I am now to practise the Stewards pace, that's the reward I look for: every man must fashion his gate, according to his calling: you fellow Stephano, may walk faster, to overtake preferment: so, usher me.

Luc.

Pray Madam, let the wascoat I last wrought

Be made up for my Father: I wil have

A cap and boote-hose sutable to it.

Eug.

225

Of that.

Wee'l think hereafter Lucio: our thoughts now

Must have no object, but thy Fathers welcome,

To which thy helfe —

Luc.

With humble gladnesse Madam.

Exeunt

Scaena Tertia.

Enter Alvarez, Clara.

Alv.

230

Where lost we Syaevedra?

Cla.

He was met

Entring the City by some Gentlemen

Kinsmen, as he said of his own, with whom

For complement sake (for so I think he term'd it)

235

He was compel'd to stay: though I much wonder

A man that knowes to do, and has done well

In the head of his troop, when the bold foe charg'd home,

Can learn so sodainly to abuse his time

In apish entertainment: for my part

240

(By all the glorious rewards of war)

I had rather meet ten enemies in the field

All sworn to fetch my head, then be brought on

To change an houres discourse with one of these

Smooth City fools, or tissen Cavaliers,

245

Then only Gallans, as they wisely think,

To get a Jewell, or a wanton Kisse

From a Court-lip, though painted.

Alv.

My Love Clara

(For Lucio is a name thou must forget

250

With Lucio bold behaviour) though thy breeding

I'the camp may plead something in the excuse

Of thy rough manners, custome having chang'd,

Though not thy Sex, the softnesse of thy nature,

And fortune (then a cruell stepdame to thee)

255

Impos'd upon thy tender sweetnesse, burthens

Of hunder, cold, wounds, want, such as would crack

The sinewes of a man, not borne a Souldier:

Yet now she smiles, and like a naturall mother

Looks gently on thee, Clara, entertaine

260

Her proffer'd bounties with a willing bosome;

Thou shalt no more have need to use thy sword;

Thy beauty (which even Belgia hath not alter'd)

Shall be a stronger guard, to keep my Clara,

Then that has bin, (though never us'd but nobly)

265

And know thus much.

Cla.

Sir, I know only that

It stands not with my duty to gaine-say you,

In any thing: I must, and will put on

What fashion you think best: though I could wish

270

I were what I appeare.

Alv.

Endeavour rather.

Musick.

To be what you are, Clara, entring here

As you were borne, a woman.

Enter Eugnia, Lucio, Servants.

Eug.

Let choice Musick

275

In the best voyce that ere touch'd humane eare,

For joy hath tide my tongue up, speak your welcome.

Alv.

My soule, (for thou giv'st new life to my spirit)

Myriads of joyes, though short in number of

Thy vertues, fall on thee; Oh my Eugenia,

280

Th'assurance, that I do embrace thee, makes

My twenty years of sorrow but a dreame,

And by the Nectar, which I take from these,

I feele my age restor'd, and like old AEson

Grow young againe.

Eug.

285

My Lord, long wish'd for welcome,

Tis a sweet briefnesse, yet in that short word

All pleasures which I may call mine, begin,

And may they long increase, before they finde

A second period: let mine eyes now surfet

290

On this so wish'd for object, and my lips

Yet modestly pay back the parting kisse

You trusted with them, when you fled from Civill

With little Clara my sweet daughter: lives she?

Yet I coul'd chide my selfe, having you here

295

For being so coveteous of all joyes at once,

'Tenquire for her, you being alone, to me

My Clara, Lucio, my Lord, my selfe;

Nay more then all the world.

Alv.

As you, to me are.

Eug.

300

Sit down, and let me feed upon the story

Of your past dangers, now you are here in safety

It will give rellish, and fresh appetite

To my delights, if such delights can cloy me.

Yet do not Alvarez, let me first yeild you

305

Accompt of my life in your absence, and

Make you acquainted how I have preserv'd

The Jewell left lock'd up in my womb,

When you, in being forc'd to leave your country,

Suffer'd a civill death.

within Clashing swords.

Alv.

310

Doe my Eugenia,

Tis that I most desire to he are,

Eug.

Then know

Sayavedra within.

Alv.

What voyce is that?

If you are noble Enemies,

Vitelli within.

315

Oppresse me not with odds, but kill me fairely,

Stand off, I am too many of my selfe.

Enter Bobadilla.

Bob.

Murther, murther murther, your friend my Lord,

Don Syavedra is set upon in the Streets, by your enemies

Vitelli, and his Faction: I am almost kill'd with looking on them.

Alv.

320

Ile free him, or fall with him: draw thy sword

And follow me.

Cla.

Fortune I give thee thankes

For this occasion once more to use it.

Exit.

Bob.

Nay, hold not me Madam; if I doe any hurt, hang me.

Luc.

325

Oh I am dead with feare! let's flye into

Your Closet, Mother.

Eug.

No houre of my life

Secure of danger? heav'n be mercifull,

Or now at once dispatch me.

Enter Vitelli, pursued by Alvarez, & Sayavedra, Clara beating of Anastro.

Cla.

330

Follow him

Leave me to keepe these off.

Alv.

Assault my friend

So neere by house?

Vit.

Nor in it will spare thee,

335

Though 'twere a Temple: & Ile mak it one,

I being the Priest, and thou the sacrifice,

Ile offer to my uncle.

Alv.

Haste thou to him,

And say I sent thee:

Cla.

340

'Twas put bravely by,

And that: and yet comes on, and boldly rare,

In the warres, where emulation and example

Joyn to encrease the courage, and make lesse

The danger; valour, and true resolution

345

Never appear'd so lovely: brave againe:

Sure he is more then man, and if he fall;

The best of vertue, fortitude would dye with him:

And can I suffer it? forgive me duty,

So I love valour, as I will protect it

350

Against my Father, and redeeme it, though

'Tis forfeited by one I hate.

Vit.

Come on,

All is not lost yet: You shall buy me deerer

Before you have me: keep off.

Cla.

355

Feare me not,

Thy worth has tooke me Prisoner, and my sword

For this time knowes thee onely for a friend,

And to all else I turne the point of it.

Say.

Defend your Fathers Enemy?

Alv.

360

Art thou mad?

Cla.

Are you men rather? shall that valour, which

Begot you lawfull honour in the warres,

Prove now the parent of an infamous Bastard

So foule, yet so long liv'd, as murther will

365

Be to your shames? have each of you, alone

With your own dangers onely, purchas'd glory

From multitudes of Enemies, not allowing

Those neerest to you, to have part in it,

And doe you now joyn, and lend mutuall helpe

370

Against a single opposite? hath the mercy

Of the great King, but newly wash'd away

The blood, that with the forfeit of your life

Cleav'd to your name, and family like an ulcer,

In this againe to set a deeper dye

375

Upon your infamy? you'll say he is your foe,

And by his rashnesse call'd on his own ruine;

Remember yet, he was first wrong'd, and honour

Spur'd him to what he did, and next the place

Where now he is, your house, which by the lawes

380

Of hospitable duty should protect him;

Have you been twenty yeeres a stranger to it,

To make your entrance now in blood? or thinke you

Your country-man, a true born Spaniard, will be

An offring fit, to please the genius of it?

385

No, in this i'le presume to teach my Father,

And this first Act of disobedience shall

Confirme I am most dutifull.

Alv.

I am pleas'd

With what I dare not give allowance to;

390

Unnaturall wretch, what wilt thou doe?

Cla.

Set free

A noble Enemy: come not on, by —

You passe to him, through me: the way is open:

Farwell: when next I meet you, doe not look for

395

A friend, but a vow'd foe; I see you worthy,

And therefore now preserve you, for the honour

Of my sword onely:

Vit.

Were this man a friend,

How would he win me, that being my vow'd foe

400

Deserves so well? I thanke you for my life;

But how I shall deserve it, give me leave

Hereafter to consider.

Exit.

Alv.

Quit thy feare,

All danger is blown over: I have Letters

405

To the Governour, in the Kings name, to secure us,

From such attempts hereafter: yet we need not

That have such strong guards of our own, dread others;

And to encrease thy comfort, know, this young man

Whom with such servent earnestnesse you eye,

410

Is not what he appeares, but such a one

As thou with joy wilt blesse, thy daughter Clara.

Eug.

A thousand blessings in that word.

Alv.

The reason

Why I have bred her up thus, at more leisure

415

I will impart unto you: wonder not

At what you have seen her doe, it being the least

Of many great and valiant undertakings

She hath made good with honour.

Eug.

Ile returne

420

The joy I have in her, with one as great

To you my Alvarez: you, in a man

Have given to me a daughter: in a woman,

I give to you a Sonne: this was the pledge

You left here with me, whom I have brought up

425

Different from what he was, as you did Clara,

And with the like successe; as she appeares

Alter'd by custome, more then woman, he

Transform'd by his soft life, is lesse then man.

Alv.

Fortune, in this gives ample satisfaction

430

For all our sorrowes past.

Luc.

My deerest Sister.

Cla.

Kinde brother.

Alv.

Now our mutuall care must be

Imploy'd to help wrong'd nature, to recover

435

Her right in either of them, lost by custome:

To you I give my Clara, and receive

My Lucio to my charge: and we'll contend

With loving industry, who soonest can

Turne this man woman or this woman, man.

Exeunt.

Actus secundus.

Scaena prima.

Enter Pachieco, and Lazarillo.

Pac.

440

Boy: my Cloake, and Rapier; it fits not a Gentleman of my ranck, to walke the streets in Querpo.

Laz.

Nay, you are a very ranck Gent. Signior, I am very hungry, they tell me in Civill here, I looke like an Eele, with a mans head: and your neighbour the Smith here hard by, would have borrowed me th'other day, to have fish'd with me, because he had lost his angle-rod.

Pac.

Oh happy thou Lazarillo (being the cause of other mens wits) as in thine own: live leane, and witty still: oppresse not thy stomach too much: grosse feeders, great sleepers: great sleepers, fat bodies; fat bodies, lean braines: No Lazarillo, I will make thee immortall, change thy humanitie into dietie, for I will teach thee to live upon nothing.

Laz

Faith Signior, I am immortall then already, or very neere it, for I doe live upon little or nothing: belike that's the reason the Poets are said to be immortall, for some of them live upon their wits, which is indeed as good as little or nothing: But good Master, let me be mortall still, and let's goe to supper.

Pac.

Be abstinent; shew not the corruption of thy generation: he that feeds, shall die, therefore he that feeds not, shall live.

Laz.

445

I; but how long shall he live? ther's the question.

Pac.

As long as he can without feeding: did'st thou read of the miraculous maid in Flanders?

Laz.

No, nor of any maid else; for the miracle of virginitie now adaies ceases, ere the virgin can read virginitie?

Pac.

She that liv'd three yeere without any other sustenance then the smell of a Rose.

Laz.

I heard of her Signior; but they say her guts shrunck all into Lute-strings, and her neather-parts cling'd together like a Serpents Taile, so that though she continued a woman still above the girdle, beneath yet she was monster.

Pac.

450

So are most women, beleeve it.

Laz.

Nay all women Signior, that can live onely upon the smell of a Rose.

Pac.

No part of the History is fabulous.

Laz.

I thinke rather no part of the Fable is Historicall: but for all this, sir, my rebellious stomach will not let me be immortall: I will be as immortall, as mortall hunger will suffer: put me to a certaine stint sir, allow me but a red herring a day.

Pac.

O'dedios: would'st thou be gluttonous in thy delicacies?

Laz.

455

He that eats nothing but a red herring a day, shall neere be broyl'd for the devils rasher: a Pilcher, Signior, a Surdiny, an Olive, that I may be a philosopher first, and immortall after.

Pac.

Patience Lazarillo; let contemplation be thy food a while: I say unto thee, one Peaze was a Souldiers provant a whole day, at the destruction of Ierusalem.

Enter Metaldi, & Mendoza.

Laz.

I; and it were any where, but at the destruction of a place i'le be hang'd.

Met.

Signior Pachieco Alasto, my most ingenious Cobler of Civill, the bonos noxios to your Signiorie.

Pac.

Signior Metaldi de forgio, my most famous Smith, and man of mettle, I returne your curtesie ten fold, and do humble my Bonnet beneath the Shooe-soale of your congie: the like to you Signior Mendoza Pediculo de vermin, my most exquisite Hose-heeler.

Laz.

460

Her's a greeting betwixt a Cobler, a Smith, and a Botcher: they all belong to the foot, which makes them stand so much upon their Gentrie.

Mend.

Signior Lazarillo.

Laz.

Ah Signior see: nay, we are all Signiors here in Spaine, from the Jakes-farmer to the Grandee, or Adelantado: this botcher looks as if he w're dowgh-bak'd a little butter now, and I could eate him like an oaten-Cake: his fathers diet was new Cheese and Onions when he got him: what a scallion fac'd-rascall 'tis?

Met.

But why Signior Pachieco, do you stand so much on the prioritie, and antiquitie of your qualitie (as you call it) in comparison of ours?

Mend.

I; your reason for that.

Pac.

465

Why thou Iron-pated Smith: and thou wollen-witted Hose heeler: heare what I will speak indifferently (and according to Ancient writers) of our three professions: and let the upright Lazarillo be both judge, and moderator.

Laz.

Still am I the most immortally hungrie, that may be.

Pac.

Suppose thou wilt derive thy pedigree, like some of the old Heroes, (as Hercules, Aeeas, Achilles) lineally from the Gods, making Saturne thy great Grand-father, and Vulcan thy Father: Vulcan was a God.

Laz.

He'll make Vulcan your God-father by and by.

Pac.

Yet I say Saturne was a crabbed block-head, and Vulgan a limping horn-head, for Venus his wife was a strumpet, and Mars begat all her Children; therefore however, thy originall must of necessitie spring from Bastardie: further, what can be a more deject spirit in man, then to lay his hands under every ones horses feet, to doe him service, as thou do'st? For thee, I will be briefe thou do'st botch, and not mend, thou art a hider of enormities, viz. scabs, chilblaines, and kibed heeles: much proane thou art to Sects, and Heresies, disturbing state, and government; for how canst thou be a sound member in the Common-wealth, that art so subject to stitches in the anckles? blush, and be silent then, Oh ye Machanick, compare no more with the politique Cobler: For Coblers (in old time) have prophesied, what may they doe now then, that have every day waxed better, and better? have we not the length of every mans foot? are we not daily menders? yea, and what menders? not horse-menders.

Laz.

470

Nor manners-menders.

Pach.

But soule-menders: Oh divine Coblers; doe we not like the wise man spin our own threds, (or our wives for us?) doe we not by our sowing the hide, reape the beefe? are not we of the gentle craft, whil'st both you are but crafts-men? You will say you feare neither Iron nor steele, and what you get is wrought out of the fire, I must answer you againe, though all this is but forgery, You may likewise say, a mans a man, that has but a hose on his head: I must likewise answer, that man is a botcher, that has a heel'd-hose on his head: to conclude there can be no comparison with the Cobler, who is all in all in the Common-wealth, has his politique eye and ends on every mans steps that walkes, and whose course shall be lasting to the worlds end.

Net.

I give place: the wit of man is wonderfull: thou hast hit the naile on the head, and I will give thee six pots for't though I neere clinth shooe againe.

Enter Vitelli & Alguazier.

Pac.

Who's this? Oh our Alguazier: as arrant a knave as E're wore out head under two offices: he is one side Alguazier.

Met.

The other side Serjeant.

Mend.

475

That's both sides carrion I am sure.

Pac.

This is he apprehends whores in the way of justice, and lodges 'em in his own house, in the way of profit: he with him, is the Grand-Don Vitelli, 'twixt whom and Fernando Alvarez the mortall hatred is: he is indeed my Dons Bawd, and do's at this present lodge a famous Curtizan of his, lately come from Madrill.

Vit.

Let her want nothing Signior, she can aske:

What losse, or injury you may sustaine

I will repaire, and recompence your love:

480

Onely that fellowes coming I mislike,

And did fore-warn her of him: beare her this

With my best love, at night i'le visit her.

Alg.

I rest your Lordships Servant.

Vit.

Good ev'n, Signiors:

485

Oh Alvarez, thou hast brought a Sonne with thee

Both brightnes, and obscures our Nation,

Whose pure strong beames on us, shoot like the Suns

On baser fires: I would to heaven my blood

Had never stain'd thy bold unfortunate hand,

490

That with mine honour I might emulate

Not persecute such vertue: I will see him

Though with the hazard of my life: no rest

In my contentious spirits can I finde

Till I have grateside him in like kinde.

Exit.

Alg.

495

I know you not: what are ye? hence ye base Besegnios.

Pac.

Mary Catzo Signior Alguazier, do'ye not know us? why, we are your honest neighbours, the Cobler, Smith, and Botcher, that have so often sate snoaring cheeke by joll with your signiorie in rug at midnight.

Laz.

Nay, good Signior, be not angry: you must understand, a Cat and such an Officer see best in the dark.

Met.

By this hand, I could finde in my heart to shooe his head.

Pac.

Why then know you Signior; thou mongrill begot at midnight, at the Goale gate, by a Beadle, on a Catch-poles wife, are not you he that was whipt out, of Toledo for perjury.

Men.

500

Next, condemn'd to the Gallies for pilfery, to the buls pizell.

Met.

And after call'd to the Inquisition, for Apostacie.

Pac.

Are not you he that rather then you durst goe an industrious voyage being press'd to the Islands, skulk'd till the fleet was gone, and then earn'd your royall a day by squiring puncks, and puncklings up and down the City?

Laz.

Are not you a Portuguize borne, descended o'the Moores, and came hither into Civill with your Master, an errant Taylor, in your red Bonnet, and your Blew Jacket lowsie: though now your block-head be cover'd with the Spanish Block, and your lashed Shoulders with a Velvet Pee?

Pac.

Are not you he, that have been of thirty callings, yet ne're a one lawfull? that being a Chandler first, profess'd sincerity, and would sell no man Mustard to his beefe on the Sabbath, and yet sold Hypocrisie all your life time?

Met.

505

Are not you he, that were since a Surgeon to the Stewes, and undertooke to cure what the Church it selfe could not, strumpets that rise to your Office by being a great Dons Baw'd?

Laz.

That commit men nightly, offencelesse, for the gaine of a groat a Prisoner, which your Beadle seemes to put up, when you share three pence?

Mend.

Are not you he, that is a kisser of men, in drunkennesse, and a berrayer in sobriety?

Alg.

Diabolo: they'll raile me into the Gallyes again.

Pac.

Yes Signior, thou art even he we speake of all this while: thou maist by thy place now, lay us by the heeles: 'tis true: but take heed, be wiser, pluck not ruine on thine own head: for never was there such an Anatomy, as we shall make thee then: be wise therefore, Oh thou Childe of the night! be friends and shake hands, thou art a proper man, if thy beard were redder: remember thy worshipfull function, a Constable though thou turn'st day into night, and night into day, what of that? watch lesse, and pray more: gird thy beares skin (viz. thy Rug-gowne) to thy loyes, take thy staffe in thy hand, and goe forth at midnight: Let not thy mittens abate the talons of thy authority, but gripe theft and whoredom, wheresoever thou meet'st 'em: bear'em away like a tempest, and lodge 'em safely in thine own house:

Laz.

510

Would you have whores and theeves lodg'd in such a house?

Pac.

They ever doe so: I have found a theefe, or a whore there, when the whole Suburbs could not furnish me.

Laz.

But why doe they lodge there?

Pac.

That they may be safe, and forth-coming: for in the morning usually the theefe is sent to the Goale, and the whore prostrates her selfe to the Justice.

Mend.

Admirable Pachieco.

Met.

515

Thou Cobler of Christendom.

Alg.

There is no railing with these rogues: I will close with'em, till I can cry quittance: why Signiors, and my honest neighbours, will you impute that as a neglect of my friends, which is an imperfection in me? I have been Sand-blinde from my infancie: to make you amends, you shall sup with me.

Laz.

Shall we sup with'ye sir? O' my conscience, they have wrong'd the Gentleman extreamly,

Alg.

And after supper, I have a project to employ you in shall make you drink, & eat merrily this moneth: I am a little knavish: why and doe not I know all you to be knaves?

Pac.

I grant you, we are all knaves, and will be your knaves: But, oh, while you live, take heed of being a proud knave.

Alg.

520

On then passe: I will beare out my staffe, and my staffe shall beare out me.

Laz.

Oh Lazarillo, thou art going to supper.

Exeunt.

Scaena Secunda.

Enter Lucio, and Bobadilla.

Luc.

Pray be not angry. I am angry, and I will be angry diablo ': what should you doe in the Kitchin, cannot the Cooks lick their fingers without your overseeing? nor the maids make pottage, except your dogs-head be in the pot? Don Lucio, Don Quot-queane, Don Spinster, weare a Petti-coate still, and put on your smock a' monday: I will have a badie o' clouts made for it, like a great girl: nay, if you will needs be starching of Ruffs, and sowing of black-work, I will of a milde, and loving Tutor, become a Tyrant, Your Father has committed you to my charge, and I will make a man, or a mouse on you.

Luc.

What would you have me doe? this scurvy sword

525

So gals my thigh: I would 'twer burnt: pish, looke

This cloak will ne'r keep on: these boots too hide bound,

Make me walk stiffe, as if my leggs were frozen,

And my Spurs gingle, like a Morris-dancer:

Lord, how my head akes, with this roguish hat;

530

This masculine attire, is most uneasie,

I am bound up in it: I had rather walke

In folio, againe, loose, like a woman.

Bob.

In Foolio, had you not?

Thou mock to heav'n, and nature, and thy Parents,

535

Thou tender Legge of Lamb; Oh, how he walkes

As if he had be-pise'd himselfe, and fleares!

Is this a gate for the young Cavalier,

Don Lucio, Sonne and heire to Alvarez?

Has it a corne? or do's it walke on conscience,

540

It treads so gingerly? Come on your wayes,

Suppose me now your Fathers foe, Vitelli,

And spying you i'th' street, thus I advance,

I twist my Beard, and then I draw my sword.

Luc.

Alas.

Bob.

545

And thus accost thee: traiterous brat,

How dur'st thou thus confront me? impious twig

Of that old stock, dew'd with my kinsmans gore,

Draw, for i'le quarter thee in peeces foure.

Luc.

Nay, Prethee Bobadilla, leave thy fooling,

550

Put up thy sword, I will not meddle with 'ye;

I, justle me, I care not: I'le not draw,

Pray be a quiet man.

Bob.

Do'ye heare: answer me, as you would doe Don Vitelli, or i'le be so bold as to lay the pomell of my sword over the hilts of your head, my name's Vitelli, and i'le have the wall.

Luc.

Why then i'le have the kennell: what a coyle you keepe?

555

Signior, what happen'd 'twixt my Sire and your

Kinsman, was long before I saw the world,

No fault of mine, nor will I justifie

My Fathers crimes: forget sir, and forgive,

'Tis Christianity: I pray put up your sword,

560

Ile give you any satisfaction

That may become a Gentleman; however

I hope you are bred to more humanity

Then to revenge my Fathers wrong on me

That crave your love, and peace: law you now Zancho

565

Would not this quiet him, were he ten Vitellies.

Bob.

Oh craven-chicken of a Cock o'th' game: well, what remedy? did thy father see this, O' my conscience, he would cut of thy Masculine gender, crop thine eares, beat out thine eyes, and set thee in one of the Peare-trees for a scar-crow: As I am Vitelli, I am satisfied but as I am Bobadilla Spindola Zancho, Steward of the house, and thy fathers servant, I could finde in my heart to lop of the hinder part of thy face, or to beat all thy teeth into thy mouth: Oh thou whay-blooded milk-sop, Ile waite upon thee no longer, thou shalt ev'n waite upon me: come your wayes fir, I shall take a little paines with ye else.

Enter Clara.

Cla.

Where art thou Brother Lucio? ran tan tan ta ran tan ran tan tan, ta ran tan tan tan. Oh, I shall no more see those golden dayes, these clothes will never fadge with me: a — O' this filthie vardingale, this hip hape: brother why are womens hanches onely limited, confin'd, hoop'd in, as it were with these same scurvy vardingales?

Bob.

Because womens hanches onely are most subject to display and fly out.

Cla.

Bobadilla, rogue, ten Duckets, I hit the propose of thy Cod-peicu.

Luc.

570

Hold, if you love my life, Sister: I am not Zancho Bobadilla, I am your brother Lucio: what a fright you have put me in?

Cla.

Brother? and wherefore thus?

Luc.

Why, Master Steward here, Signior Zancho, made me change: he do's nothing but misuse me, and call me Cowheard, and sweares I shall waite upon him.

Bob.

Well: I doe no more then I have authority for: would I were away though: for she's as much too mannish, as he too womanish: I dare not meddle with her, yet I must set a good face on't (if I had it) I have like charge of you Maddam, I am as well to mollifie you, as to qualifie him: what have you to doe with Armors, and Pistols, and Javelins, and swords, and such tooles? remember Mistresse; nature hath given you a sheath onely, to signifie women are to put up mens weapons, not to draw them: looke you now, it this a fit trot for a Gentlewoman? You shall see the Court Ladies move like Goddesses, as if they trod ayre; they will swim you their measures, like whiting-mops as if their feet were sinnes, and the hinges of their knees oyld: doe they love to ride great horses, as you doe? no, they love to ride great asses sooner: faith, I know not what to say to'ye both Custome hath turn'd nature topsie-turvy in you.

Cla.

Nay but Master Steward.

Bob.

575

You cannot trot so fast, but he ambles as slowly.

Cla.

Signior Spindle, will you heare me,

Bob.

He that shall come to bestride your virginitie, had better be afoot o're the Dragon.

Cla.

Very well.

Bob.

Did ever Spanish Lady pace so?

Cla.

580

Hold these a little.

Luc.

Ile not touch 'em, I.

Cla.

First doe I breake your Office o're your pate,

You Dog-skin-fac'd-rogue, pilcher, you poore Iohn,

Which I will be at to Stock-fish.

Luc.

585

Sister.

Bob.

Maddam.

Cla.

You Cittern-head, who have you talk'd to, hah?

You nasty, stincking, and ill-countenanc'd Cur.

Bob.

By this hand, Ile bang your brother for this, when I get him a lone.

Cla.

590

How? kick him Lucio, he shall kick you Bob,

Spight o' the nose, that's flat: kick him, I say,

Or I will cut thy head off.

Bob.

Softly y'had best.

Cla.

Now, thou leane, dride, and ominous visag'd kneve,

595

Thou false and peremptory Steward, pray,

For I will hang thee up in thine own Chaine.

Luc

Good Sister, doe not choake him.

Bob.

Murder, murder.

Exit.

Cla.

Well: I shall meet with 'ye: Lucio, who bought this?

600

'Tis a reasonable good one; but there hangs one

Spaines Champion ne're us'd truer: with this Stuffe

Old Alvarez has led up men so close,

They could almost spit in the Canons mouth,

Whil'st I with that, and this, well mounted, scurr'd

605

A Horse-troope through, and through, like swift desire;

And seen poor rogues retire, all gore, and gash'd

Like bleeding Shads.

Luc.

'Blesse us, Sister Clara,

How desperately you talke: what do'ye call

610

This Gun a dag?

Cla.

Ile give't thee: a French petronell:

You never saw my Barbary, the Infanta

Bestow'd upon me, as yet Lucio?

Walke down, and see it

Luc.

615

What into the Stable?

Not I, the Jades wil kick: the poore Groom there

Was almost spoyld the other day.

Cla.

Fie on thee,

Thou wilt scarce be a man before thy mother.

Luc.

620

When wil you be a woman?

Enter Alvarez and Bobadilla.

Cla.

Would I were none.

But natures privy Seale assures me one.

Alv.

Thou angerst me: can strong habituall custome

Work with such Magick on the mind, and manners

625

In spight of sex and nature? finde out sirha,

Some skilfull fighter.

Bob.

Yes sir.

Alv.

I wil rectifie,

And redeem eithers proper inclination,

630

Or bray 'em in a morter, and new mold 'em.

Exit.

Bob.

Believe your eyes sir; I tell you, we wash an Ethiop.

Cla.

I strike it for ten Duckets.

Alv.

How now Clara,

Your breeches on still? and your petticote

635

Not yet off Lucio? art thou not guelt?

Or did the cold Muscovite beget thee,

That lay here Lieger in the last great frost?

Art not thou Clara, turn'd a man indeed

Beneath the girdle? and a woman thou?

640

Ile have you search'd by —, I strongly doubt;

We must have these things mended: come go in.

Exit.

Enter Vitelli, and Bobadilla.

Bob.

With Lucio say you? there is for you.

Vit.

And there is for thee.

Bob.

I thank you: you have now bought a little advice

645

Of me; if you chance to have conference with that

Lady there, be very civill, or looke to your head: she has

Ten nailes, and you have but two eyes: If any foolish

Hot motions should chance to rise in the horizon

Under your equinoctiall there, qualifie it as well as

650

You can, for I feare the elevation of your pole will

Not agree with the Horoscope of her constitution:

She is Bell the Dragon I assure you.

Exit.

Vit.

Are you the Lucio, sir, that sav'd Vitelli?

Luc.

Not I indeed sir, I did never brable;

655

There walks that Lucio, metamorphosed.

Exit.

Vit.

Do ye mock me?

Cla.

No, he do's not: I am that

Suposed Lucio, that was but Clara,

That is, and daughter unto Alvarez.

Vit.

660

Amazement daunts me; would my life were riddles,

So you were still my faire Expositor:

Protected by a Lady from my death.

Oh I shall weare an everlasting blush

Upon my cheek from this discovery:

665

On you the fairest Souldier, I ere saw;

Each of whose eyes, like a bright beamy shield

Conquers, without blowes, the contentious.

Cla.

Sir, guard your self, you are in your enemies house,

And may be injur'd.

Vit.

670

Tis impossible:

Foe, nor oppressing odds dares prove Vitelli,

If Clara side him, and wil call him friend;

I would the difference of our bloods were such

As might with any shift be wip'd away:

675

Or would to Heaven your selfe were all your name;

That having lost blood by you, I might hope

To raise blood from you. But my black-wing'd fate

Hovers aversely over that fond hope:

And he, whose tongue thus gratifies the daughter,

680

And sister of his enemy, weares a Sword

To rip the father and the brother up.

Thus you, that sav'd this wretched life of mine,

Have savd it to the ruine of your friends.

That my affections should promiscuously

685

Dart love and hate at once, both worthily?

Pray let me kisse your hand.

Cla.

You are treacherous,

And come to do me mischiefe.

Vit.

Speake on still:

690

Your words are falser (faire) then my intents,

And each sweet accent far more treacherous; for

Though you speak ill of me, you speak so well,

I doe desire to heare you.

Cla.

Pray be gone:

695

Or kill me, if you please.

Vit.

Oh, neither can:

For to be done, were to destroy my life;

And to kill you, were to destroy my soule:

I am in love, yet must not be in love:

700

Ile get away a pace: yet valiant Lady,

Such gratitude to honour I do owe,

And such obedience to your memory,

That if you will bestow something, that I

May weare about me, it shall bind all wrath,

705

My most inveterate wrath, from all attempts,

Till you and I meet next.

Cla.

A favour fir?

Why I wil 'give ye good councell.

Vit.

That already

710

You Have bestowd. a Ribbon, or a Glove.

Cla.

Nay those are tokens for a waiting maid

To trim the Butler with.

Vit.

Your feather.

Cla.

Fie; the wenches give them to their Serving-men.

Vit.

715

That little ring.

Cla.

Twill hold you but by th'finger;

And I would have you faster.

Vit.

Any thing

That I may weare, and but remember you.

Cla.

720

This smile: my good opinion, or my self.

But that it seems you like not.

Vit.

Yes, so well:

When any smiles, I will remember yours;

Your good opinion shall in weight poize me

725

Against a thousand ill: Lastly, your selfe,

My curious eye now figures in my heart,

Where I wil weare you, till the Table breake.

So, whitest Angels guard you.

Cla.

Stay sir, I

730

Have fitly thought to give, what you as fitly

May not disdaine to weare.

Vit.

What's that?

Cla.

This Sword.

I never heard a man speak till this houre.

735

His words are golden chaines, and now I feare

The Lyonesse hath met a tamer here;

Fie, how his tongue chimes: what was I saying?

Oh: this favour I bequeath you, which I tie

In a love-knot, fast, nere to hurt my friends;

740

Yet be it fortunate 'gainst all your foes

(For I have neither friend, nor foe, but yours)

As ere it was to me: I have kept it long,

And value it, next my Virginity:

But good, return it, for I now remember

745

I vow'd, who purchas'd it, should have me too.

Vit.

would that were possible: but alas it is not;

Yet this assure your selfe, most honour'd Clara,

Ile not infringe an Article of breath

My vow hath offerd to ye: nor from this part

750

Whilst it hath edge, or point, or I a heart.

Exit.

Cla.

Oh leave me living: what new exercise

Is crept into my breast, that blauncheth clean

My former nature? I begin to finde

I am a woman, and must learn to fight

755

A softer sweeter battaile, then with Swords.

I am sick me thinks, but the disease I feele

Pleaseth, and punisheth: I warrant love

Is very like this, that folks talke of so;

I skill not what it is, yet sure even here,

760

Even in my heart, I sensibly perceive

It glows, and riseth like a glimmering flame,

But know not yet the essence on't nor name.

Exit.

Actus tertius,

Scaena prima.

Enter Malroda, and Alguazier.

Mal.

He must not? nor he shall not, who shall let him?

You? politique Diego, with your face of wisdome;

765

Don-blirt, the — on your aphorismes,

Your grave, and sage Ale physiognomy:

Do not I know thee for the Alquazier

Whose dunghill all the Parish Scavengers

Could never rid? thou Comedy to men,

770

Whose serious folly is a for all

To shoot their wits at; whilst thou hast not wit,

Nor heart, to answer, or be angry.

Alg.

Lady.

Mal.

Peace, peace, you rotten rogue, supported by

775

A staffe of rottener office: dare you check

Anys accesses, that I wil allow?

Piorato is my friend, and visits me

In lawfull sort to espouse me as his wife;

And who wil crosse, or shall our enter-viewes?

780

You know me sirha, for no Chambermaid,

That cast her belly, and her wastcote lately;

Thou thinkst thy Constableship is much: not so,

I am ten offices to thee: I, thy house,

Thy house, and Office is maintain'd by me.

Alg.

785

My house of office is maintain'd ith' garden:

Go too, I know you, and I have contriv'd;

Y'are a delinquent, but I have contriv'd

A poyson, though not in the third degree:

I can say, blacks your eye, though it be grey;

790

I have connivd at this. your friend, and you:

But what is got by this connivency?

I like his feather well: a proper man,

Of good discourse, fine conversation,

Valiant, and a great carrier of the businesse,

795

Sweet breasted, as the Nightingale, or Thrush:

Yet I must tell you; you forget your selfe,

My Lord Vitellies love, and maintenance

Deserves no other Jack ith' box, but he:

What though he gather'd first the golden fruit,

800

And blew your pigges-coat up into a blister,

When you did wait at Court upon his mother;

Has he not wel provided for the barne?

Beside, what profit reap I by the other?

If you wil have me serve your pleasure, Lady,

805

Your pleasure must accommodate my service;

As good be vertuous and poore, as not

Thrive by my knavery: all the world would be

Good, prosper'd goodnesse like to villany.

I am the Kings vice-gerent by my place;

810

His right Lieutenant in mine owe precinct.

Mal.

Thou art a right rascall in all mens precincts;

Yet now my paire of twins, of foole, and knave,

Looke we are friends; there's Gold for thee, admit

Whom I wil have, and keep it from my Don;

815

And I will make thee richer then thou art wise:

Thou shalt be my Bawd, and my Officer:

Thy children shall eate still my good night Owle,

And thy old wife sell Andyrons to the Court,

Be countenanced by the Dons, and weare a hood,

820

Nay keepe my garden-house; Ile call her mother,

Thee father, my good poysonous red-har'd Dill,

And Gold shall daily be thy Sacrifice,

Wrought from a fertill Island of mine owne,

Which I wil offer, like an Indian Queen.

Alg.

825

And I wil be thy divel, thou my flesh,

With which Ile catch the world.

Mal.

Fill some Tobacco,

And bring it in: if Piorato come

Before my Don, admit him; if my Don

830

Before my Love, conduct him, my deere devill.

Exit.

Alg.

I wil my dear flesh: first come, first serv'd. Wel said.

O equall Heaven, how wisely thou disposest

Thy severall gifts? one's born a great rich foole,

For the subordinate knave to worke upon:

835

Anothers poore, with wits addition,

Which wel or ill us'd, builds a living up;

And that too from the Sire oft discends:

Onely faire vertue, by traduction

Never succeeds, and seldome meets successe;

840

What have I then to do with 't? My free will

Left me by Heaven, makes me or good, or ill:

Now since vice gets more in this vicious world

Then piety, and my stars confluence

Enforce my disposition to affect

845

Gaine, and the name of rich, let who wil practice

War, and grow that Way great: religious,

And that way good: my chiefe felicity

Is wealth the nurse of sensuality:

And he that mainly labours to be rich,

850

Must scratch great scabs, and claw a Strumpets itch.

Exit.

Scaena secunda.

Enter Piorato, and Bobadilla, with Letters.

Pio.

To say sir, I wil wait upon your Lord,

Were not to understand my selfe.

Bob.

To say sir

You wil doe any thing but wait upon him,

855

Were not to understand my Lord.

Pio.

Ile meet him

Some halfe houre hence, and doubt not but to render

His sonne a man againe: the cure is easie,

I have done divers.

Bob.

860

Women do ye mean, sir?

Pio.

Cures I do mean sir: be there but one sparke

Of fire remaining in him unextinct,

With my discourse Ile blow it to a flame;

And with my practice, into action:

865

I have had one so full of childish feare,

And womanish hearted sent to my advice,

He durst not draw a Knife to cut his meat.

Bob.

And how sir, did you help him?

Pio.

Sir, I kept him

870

Seaven daies in a darke room by Candle-light,

A plenteous Table spread with all good meats,

Before his eyes, a case of keen broad Knives,

Upon the board, and he so watchd, he might not

Touch the least modicum, unlesse he cut it:

875

And thus I brought him first to draw a knife.

Bob.

Good.

Pio.

Then for ten daies did I diet him

Onely with burnt Porke sir, and gammons of Bacon;

A pill of Caveary now and then,

880

Which breeds choler adust you know.

Bob.

Tis true.

Pio.

And to purge phlegmatick humor, and cold crudities;

In all that time, he dranke me Aqua fortis,

And nothing else but —

Bob.

885

Aqua vite Signior,

For Aqua fortis poysons.

Pio.

Aqua fortis

I say again: what's one mans poyson Signior,

Is anothers meat or drinke.

Bob.

890

Your patience sir;

By your good patience, h'ad a huge cold stomacke.

Pio.

I fir'd it: and gave him then three sweats

In the Artillery-yard three drilling daies:

And now he'l shoot a Gun, and draw a Sword,

895

And fight with any man in Christendome.

Bob.

A receipt for a coward: Ile be bold sir

To write your good prescription.

Pio.

Sir, hereafter

You shall, and underneath it put probatum:

900

Is your chaine right?

Bob.

Tis both right and just sir;

For though I am a Steward, I did get it

With no mans wrong.

Pio.

You are witty.

Bob.

905

So, so.

Could you not cure one sir, of being too rash

And over-daring? there now's my disease:

Fool-hardy as they say, for that in sooth

I am.

Pio.

910

Most easily.

Bob.

How?

Pio.

To make you drunke sir,

With smal Beere once a day; and beat you twice,

Till you be bruis'd all over: if that help not,

915

Knock out your braines.

Bob.

This is strong Physick Signior,

And never wil agree with my weak body:

I finde the medcine worse then the malady,

And therefore wil remain fool-hardy stil:

920

You'l come sir?

Pio:

As I am a Gentleman.

Bob.

A man oth' Sword should never break his word.

Pio.

Ile overtake you: I have onely sir

A complementall visitation

925

To offer to a Mistris lodgd here by.

Bob.

A Gentlewoman?

Pio.

Yes sir.

Bob.

Faire, and comely?

Pio.

Oh sir, the Paragon, the Non-parill

930

Of Civill, the most wealthy Mine of Spaine,

For beauty, and perfection.

Bob.

Say you so?

Might not a man entreat a curtesie,

To walke along with you Signior, to peruse

935

This dainty Mine, though not to dig in't Signior?

Hanh — I hope you'l not deny me, being a stranger;

Though I am Steward, I am flesh and blood,

And fraile as other men.

Pio.

Sir, blow your nose:

940

I dare not for the world: no, she is kept

By a great Don, Vitelli.

Bob.

How?

Pio.

Tis true.

Bob.

See, things wil veere about: this Don Vitelli

945

Am I to seeke now, to deliver Letters

From my young Mistris Clara; and I tell you,

Under the Rose, because you are a stranger,

And my speciall friend, I doubt there is

A little foolish love betwixt the parties,

950

Unknown unto my Lord.

Pio.

Happy discovery:

My fruit begins to ripen: hark you sir,

I would not wish you now, to give those Letters:

But home, and ope this to Madona Clara,

955

Which when I come Ile justifie, and relate

More amply, and particularly.

Bob.

I approve

Your counsell, and wil practice it: bazilos manos:

Here's two chewres chewed: when wisdome is imployd

960

Tis ever thus: your more acquaintance, Signior:

I say not better, least you think, I thought not

Yours good enough.

Exit.

Enter Alguazier.

Pio.

Your servant excellent Steward.

Would all the Dons in Spain had no more brains,

965

Here comes the Alguazier: dieu vous guard Mounsier.

Is my cuz stirring yet?

Alg.

Your cuz (good cosen?)

A whore is like a foole, akin to all

The gallants in the Town: Your coz, good Signior,

970

Is gone abroad sir, with her other cosen,

My Lord Vitelli: since when there hath been

Some dozen cosens here to enquire for her.

Pio.

'he's greatly alli'd sir.

Alg.

Marry is she sir,

975

Come of a lusty kindred: the truth is,

I must connive no more: no more admittance

Must I consent to; my good Lord has threatned me,

And you must pardon.

Pio.

Out upon thee man,

980

Turne honest in thine age? one foot ith' grave?

Thou shalt not wrong thy selfe so, for a million:

Looke, thou three-headed Cerberus (for wit

I mean) here is one sop, and two, and three,

For every chop a hit.

Alg.

985

I marry sir:

Wel, the poore heart loves you but too wel.

We have been talking on you 'faith this houre:

Where, what I said, goe too: she loves your valour;

Oh and your Musicke most abominably:

990

She is within sir, and alone: what meane you?

Pio

That is your Sergeants side, I take it sir;

Now I endure your Constables much better;

There is lesse danger in't: for one you know

Is a tame harmlesse monster in the light,

995

The Sergeant salvage both by day, and night.

Alg.

Ile call her to you for that.

Pio.

No, I wil charme her.

Enter Malroda.

Alg.

She's come.

Pio.

My Spirit.

Mal.

1000

Oh my Sweet,

Leape hearts to lips, and in our kisses meet.

Pio.

Turn, turn thy beauteous face away,

Song.

How pale and sickly lookt the day,

In emulation of thy brighter beams?

1005

Oh envious light, flv, fly, he gove,

Come night, and peece two breasts at one;

When what love does, we will repeat in dreams.

Yet (thy eyes open) who can day hence fright,

Let but their lids fall, and it will be night.

Alg.

1010

Wel, I wil leave you to your fortitude;

And you to temperance: ah, ye pretty paire,

Twere sin to sunder you. Lovers being alone

Make one of two, and day and night all one.

But fall not out, I charge you, keep the peace;

1015

You know my place else.

Exit.

Mal.

No, you wil not marry:

You are a Courtier, and can sing (my Love)

And want no Mistrisses: but yet I care not,

Ile love you still; and when I am dead for you,

1020

Then you'l believe my truth.

Pio.

You kill me (faire)

It is my lesson that you speake: have I

In any circumstance deserv'd this doubt?

I am not like your false and perjur'd Don

1025

That here maintains you, and has vowd his faith,

And yet attempts in way of marriage

A Lady not far off.

Mal.

How's that?

Pio.

Tis so:

1030

And therefore Mistris, now the time is come

You may demand his promise; and I sweare

To marry you with speed.

Mal.

And with that Gold

Which Don Vitelli gives, you'l walke some voyage

1035

And leave me to my trade; and laugh, and brag,

How you ore-reach'd a whore, and guld a Lord.

Pio.

You anger me extreamly: fare you wel.

What should I say to be believd? expose me

To any hazzard; or like jealous Juno

1040

(Th' incensed step-mother of Hercules)

Designe me labours most impossible,

Ile doe 'em, or die in 'em; so at last

You wil believe me.

Mal.

Come, we are friends: I doe.

1045

I am thine, walk in: my Lord has sent me outsides,

But thou shalt have 'em, the colours are too sad:

Pio.

'Faith Mistris, I want clothes indeed.

Mal.

I have

Some Gold too, for my servant.

Pio.

1050

And I have

A better mettle for my Mistris.

Exeunt.

Scena tertia.

Enter Vitelli and Alguazier, at severall doors.

Alg.

Undone — wit now or never help me: my Master

He wil cut my throat, I am a dead Constable;

And he'l not be hangd neither, there's the griefe:

1055

The party sir is here.

Vit.

What?

Alg.

He was here;

I cry your Lordship mercy: but I rattled him;

I told him here was no companions

1060

For such deboshd, and poor-condition'd fellows;

Ibid him venture not so desperately

The cropping of his eares, slitting his nose,

Or being gelt.

Vit.

Twas wel done.

Alg.

1065

Please your honour,

I told him there were Stewes, and then at last

Swore three or foure great oathes she was remov'd,

Which I did thinke I might in conscience,

Being for your Lordship.

Vit.

1070

What became of him?

Alg.

Faith sir, he went away with a flea in's eare,

Like a poore cur, clapping his trindle taile

Betwixt his legs. — A chi ha, a chi ha, chi ha — now luck.

Enter Malroda and Piorato.

Mal.

Tis he, do as I told Blesse thee Signior.

1075

Oh, my deare Lord.

Vit.

Malroda, what alone?

Mal.

She never is alone, that is accompanied

With noble thoughts, my Lords and mine are such,

Being onely of your Lordship.

Vit.

1080

Pretty Lasse.

Mal.

Oh my good Lord, my picture's done: but 'faith

It is not like; nay this way sir, the light

Strikes best upon it here.

Pio.

Excellent wench.

Exit.

Alg.

1085

I am glad the danger's over.

Exit.

Vit.

Tis wondrous like,

But that Art cannot counterfeit what Nature

Could make but once.

Mal.

All's cleare; another tune

1090

You must heare from me now: Vitelli, thou'rt

A most perfidious and a perjur'd man,

As ever did usurpe Nobility.

Vit.

What meanst thou Mal. ?

Mal.

Leave your betraying smiles,

1095

And change the tunes of your inticing tongues

To penitentiall prayers; for I am great

In labour even with anger, big with child

Of womans rage, bigger then when my wombe

Was pregnant by thee: goe seducer, fly

1100

Out of the world, let me the last wretch be

Dishonoured by thee: touch me not, I loath

My very heart, because thou layst there long;

A woman's wel helpt up, that's confident

In ere a glittering outside on you all:

1105

Would I had honestly been matchd to some

Poore Countrey-swaine, ere known the vanity

Of Court: peace then had been my portion,

Nor had been cozend by an houres pompe

To be a whore unto my dying day.

Vit.

1110

Oh the uncomfortable waies such women have,

Their different speech and meaning, no assurance

In what they say or do: Dissemblers

Even in their prayers, as if the weeping Greeke

That flatter'd Troy afire had been their Adam;

1115

Lyers, as if their mother had been made

Onely of all the falshood of the man,

Dispos'd into that rib: Do I know this,

And more: nay, all that can concern this Sex,

With the true end of my creation?

1120

Can I with rationall discourse sometimes

Advance my spirit into Heaven, before

'T has shook hands with my body, and yet blindly

Suffer my filthy flesh to master it,

With sight of such faire fraile beguiling objects?

1125

When I am absent, easily I resolve

Nere more to entertaine those strong desires

That triumph ore me, even to actuall sin;

Yet when I meet again those sorserers eyes,

Their beames my hardest resolutions thaw,

1130

As if that cakes of Ice and July met,

And her sighes powerfull as the violent North,

Like a light feather twirle me round about

And leave me in mine own low state again.

What aylst thou? prethee weep not: Oh, those tears

1135

If they were true, and righly spent, would raise

A flowry spring ith' midst of January:

Celestiall Ministers with Christall cups

Would stoop to save 'em for immortall drink:

But from this passion; why all this?

Mal.

1140

Do'ye ask?

You are marrying: having made me unfit

For any man, you leave me fit for all:

Porters must be my burthens now, to live

And fitting me your selfe for Carts, and Beadles

1145

You leave me to 'em: And who of all the world

But the virago, your great Arch-foes daughter?

But on: I care not, this poore rush: 'twill breed

An excellent comedy: ha, ha: 't'makes me laugh:

I cannot choose: the best is, some report

1150

It is a match for feare, not love o' your side.

Vit.

Why how the devill knows she, that I saw

This Lady? are all whores, peec'd with some witch?

I will be merry, 'faith 'tis true, sweet heart,

I am to marry?

Mal.

1155

Are you? you base Lord.

By — i'le Pistoll thee.

Vit.

A roaring whore?

Take heed, there's a correction house hard by:

You ha' learn'd this o' your swordman, that I warn'd you of,

1160

Your fencers, and your drunkards: but whereas

You upbraid me with oathes, why I must tell you

I ne'ere promis'd you marriage, nor have vow'd,

But said I lov'd you, long as you remain'd

The woman I expected, or you swore,

1165

And how you have fail'd of that (sweet heart) you know.

You faine would shew your power, but fare you well,

Ile keepe no more faith with an infidell.

Mal.

Nor I my bosome for a Turk: do'ye heare?

Goe, and the devill take me, if ever

1170

I see you more: I was too true.

Vit.

Come, pish:

That devill take the falsest of us two.

Mal.

Amen.

Vit.

You are an ill Clerk; and curse your selfe:

1175

Madnesse transports you: I confesse, I drew you

Unto my will: but you must know that must not

Make me doat on the habit of my sin.

I will, to settle you to your content,

Be master of my word: and yet he li'd

1180

That told you I was marrying, but in thought:

But will you slave me to your tyranny

So cruelly I shall not dare to looke

Or speake to other women? make me not

Your smocks Monopolie: come, let's be friends:

1185

Looke, her's a Jewell for thee: I will come

At night, and —

Mal.

What 'yfaith: you shall not sir.

Vit.

'Faith, and troth, and verily, but I will

Ma.

Halfe drunck, to make a noise, and raile?

Vit.

1190

No, no,

Sober, and dieted for the nonce: I am thine,

I have won the day.

Mal.

The night (though) shall be mine.

Exeunt.

Scaena quarta.

Enter Clara, and Bobadilla with Letters.

Cla.

What said he sirha?

Bob.

1195

Little, or nothing: faith I saw him not,

Nor will not: he doth love a strumpet, Mistresse,

Nay, keeps her spitefully, under the Constables nose,

It shall be justifi'd by the Gentleman

Your brothers Matter, that is now within

1200

A'practicing: there are your Letters: come

You shall not cast your selfe away, while I live,

Nor will I venture my right worshipfull place

Enter

In such a businesse — here's your Mother: downe:

Eugenia & Sayavedra.

And he that loves you: another 'gates fellow, I wish

1205

If you had any grace.

Cla.

Well rogue.

Bob.

Ile in, to see Don Lucio mannage: he'll make

A pretty peece of flesh; I promise you,

He do's already handle his weapon finely.

Exit.

Eug.

1210

She knows your love sir, and the full allowance

Her Father and my selfe approve it with,

And I must tell you, I much hope it hath

Wrought some impression, by her alteration;

She sighes, and saies forsooth, and cries heigh ho,

1215

She'll take ill words oth' Steward, and the Servants,

Yet answer affably, and modestly:

Things sir, not usuall with her: there she is,

Change some few words.

Say.

Maddam, I am bound to 'ye;

1220

How now, faire Mistresse, working?

Cla.

Yes forsooth,

Learning to live another day.

Say.

That needs not.

Cla.

No forsooth: by my truly but it do's,

1225

We know not what we may come too.

Eug.

'Tis strange.

Say.

Come, I ha beg'd leave for you to play.

Cla.

Forsooth

'Tis ill for a faire Lady to be idle.

Say.

1230

She had better be well- busied, I know that.

Turtle: me thinkes you mourne, shall I sit by you?

Cla.

If you be weary sir, you had best be gone

(I work not a true stitch) now you'r my mate.

Say.

If I be so, I must doe more then side you.

Cla.

1235

Ev'n what you will, but tread me.

Say.

Shall we bill?

Cla.

Oh no, forsooth.

Say.

Being so faire, my Clara,

Why do'ye delight in black-worke?

Cla.

1240

Oh white sir,

The fairest Ladies like the blackest men:

I ever lov'd the colour: all black things

Are least subject to change.

Say.

Why, I doe love

1245

A black thing too: and the most beauteous faces

Have oftnest of them: as the blackest eyes,

Jet-arched browes, such haire: i'le kisse your hand.

Cla.

'Twill hinder me work my sir: and my Mother

Will chide me, if I doe not doe my taske.

Say.

1250

Your Mother, nor your Father shall chide: you

Might have a prettier taske, would you be rul'd,

And looke with open eyes.

Cla.

I stare upon you:

And broadly see you: a wondrous proper man,

1255

Yet 'twere a greater taske for me to love you

Then I shall ever work sir, in seven yeer,

— o' this stitching, I had rather feele

Two, then sow one: — this rogue h'as giv'n me a stitch

Cleane crosse my heart: good faith sir: I shall prick you.

Say.

1260

In goodder faith, I would prick you againe.

Cla.

Now you grow troublesome: pish; the man is, foolish

Say.

Pray weare these trifles.

Cla.

Neither you, nor trifles,

You are a trifle, weare your selfe, sir, out,

1265

And here no more trifle the time away.

Say.

Come; you're deceived in me, I will not wake,

Nor fast, nor dye for you.

Cla.

Goose, be not you deceiv'd,

I can not like, nor love, nor live with you,

1270

Nor fast, nor watch, nor pray for you.

Eug.

Her old fit.

Say.

Sure, this is not the way: nay, I will breake

Your melancholie.

Cla.

I shall breake your pate then,

1275

Away, you sanguine scabbard.

Eug.

Out upon thee

Enter Alvarez, Piorato, Lucio: & Bobadilla.

Thou'lt breake my heart, I am sure.

Say.

She's not yet tame.

Alv.

On sir; put home: or I shall goad you here

1280

With this old Fox of mine, that will bite better:

Oh, the brave age is gone; in my young daies

A Chevalier would stock a needles point

Three times together: strait ith' hams?

Or shall I gi'v'ye new Garters?

Bob.

1285

Faith old Master.

There's little hope: the linnen sure was danck

He was begot in, he's so faint, and cold:

2 Torches ready.

Ev'n send him to Toledo, there to study,

For he will never fadge with these Toledos;

1290

Beare ye up your point there; pick his teeth: Oh 'base.

Pio.

Fie: you are the most untoward Scholler: beare

Your body gracefully: what a posture's there?

You lie too open breasted.

Luc.

Oh!

Pio.

1295

You'ld never

Make a good States-man:

Luc.

Pray no more.

I hope to breath in peace, and therefore need not

The practise of these dangerous qualities,

1300

I doe not meane to live by't; for I trust

You'l leave me better able.

Alv.

Not a Button:

Eugenia,

Let's goe get us a new heire.

Eug.

I by my troth: your daughter's as untoward.

Alv.

1305

I will breake thee bone by bone, and bake thee,

Ere i'le ha' such a woodden Sonne, to inherit:

Take him a good knock; see how that will work.

Pio.

Now, for your life Signior:

Luc.

Oh: alas, I am kill'd

1310

My eye is out: looke Father: Zancho: —

Ile play the foole no more thus, that I will not.

Cla.

'Heart: nere a rogue in Spaine shall wrong my brother

Whil'st I can hold a sword.

Pio.

Hold, Maddam, Maddam.

Alv.

1315

Clara.

Eug.

Daughter.

Bob.

Mistresse:

Pio.

Bradamante.

Hold, hold I pray.

Alv.

1320

The devil's in her, o'the other side: sure,

There's Gold for you: they have chang'd what ye calt's :

Will no cure help? well, I have one experiment,

And if that faile, Ile hang him, then here's an end on't.

Come you along with me: and you sir:

Exit

Bob.

1325

Now are you going to drowning.

Alv. Eug. Luc. Bob.

Say.

Ile ev'n along with ye: she's too great a Lady

For me, and would prove more then my match.

Exit.

Cla.

You'r he spoke of Vitelli to the Steward?

Pio.

Yes: and I thank you, you have beat me for't.

Cla.

1330

But are you sure you doe not wrong him?

Pio.

Sure?

So sure, that if you please venture your selfe

Ile show you him, and his Cockatrice together,

And you shall heare 'em talke.

Cla.

1335

Will you? by — sir

You shall endeere me ever: and I ask

You mercy.

Pio.

You were somewhat boystrous.

Cla.

There's Gold to make you amends: and for this paines,

1340

Ile gratifie you further: i'le but masque me

And walke along with ye: faith let's make a night on't.

Exit.

Scaena quinta.

Enter Algnazier, Pachieco, Mendoza. Metaldi, Lazarillo.

Alg.

Come on my brave water-Spanlels: you that hunt Ducks in the night: and hide more knavery under your gownes then your betters: observe my precepts, and edifie by my doctrine: at yond corner will I set you; if drunkards molest the street, & fall to brabling, knock you down the malefactors, and take you up their cloaks and hats, and bring them to me: they are lawfull prisoners, and must be ransom'd ere they receive liberty: what else you are to execute upon occasion, you sufficiently know: and therefore I abbreviate my Lecture.

Met.

We are wise enough, and warme enough.

Men.

Vice this night shall be apprehended.

Pach.

1345

The terror of rug-gownes shall be known: and our bils

Discharge us of after recknings.

Laz.

I will doe any thing, so I may eat.

Pach.

Lazarillo, We will spend no more; now we are growne worse, we will live better: let us follow our calling faithfully.

Alg.

Away, then the Common-wealth is our Mistresse: and who

1350

Would serve a common Mistresse, but to gaine by her?

Exeunt.

Actus quartus.

Scaena prima.

Enter Vitelli, Lamorall, Genevora, Anastro, and two Pages with lights.

Lam.

I pray you see the Masque, my Lord,

Ana.

'Tis early night yet.

Gen.

O if it be so late, take me along:

I would not give advantage to ill tongues

1355

To tax my being here, without your presence

To be my warrant.

Vit.

You might spare this, Sister,

Knowing with whom I leave you; one that is

By your allowance, and his choice, your Servant,

1360

And may my councell and perswasion work it,

Your husband speedily: For your entertainement

My thankes; I will not rob you of the meanes

To doe your Mistresse some acceptable service

In waiting on her to my house.

Gen.

1365

My Lord,

Vit.

As you respect me, without further trouble

Retire, and taste those pleasures prepar'd for you,

And leave me to my own wayes.

Lam.

When you please sir.

Exeunt.

Scaena secunda.

Enter Malroda, and Algnazier.

Mal.

1370

You'l leave my Chamber?

Alg.

Let us but bill once,

My Dove, my Sparrow, and I, with my office

Will be thy slaves for ever.

Mal.

Are you so hot?

Alg.

1375

But taste the difference of a man in place,

You'l finde that when authoritie pricks him forward,

Your Don, nor yet your Diego comes not neere him

To doe a Lady right: no men pay deerer

For their stolne sweetes, then we: three minutes trading

1380

Affords to any sinner a protection

For three yeeres after: thinke on that, I burne;

But one drop of your bounty.

Mal.

Hence you rogue,

Am I fit for you? is't not grace sufficient

1385

To have your staffe, a bolt to bar the doore

Where a Don enters, but that you'l presume

To be his taster?

Alg.

Is no more respect

Due to this rod of justice?

Mal.

1390

Doe you dispute?

Good Doctor of the Dungeon, not a word more,

— If you doe, my Lord Vitelli knowes it.

Alg.

Why I am bigge enough to answer him,

Or any man.

Mal.

1395

'Tis well.

Vitelli within.

Vit.

Malroda.

Alg.

How?

Mal.

You know the voice, and now crowch like a Cur

Tane worrying sheepe: I now could have you guelded

1400

For a Bawd rampani: but on this submission

For once I spare you

Alg.

I Will be reveng'd

My honourable Lord.

Vit.

There's for thy care

Alg.

1405

I am mad, starck mad: proud Pagan scorn her host

I would I were but valiant enough to kick her,

Enter Piorato & Clara, above.

Il'd wish no manhood else.

Mal.

What's that?

Alg.

I am gone.

Exit.

Pio.

1410

You see, I have kept my word.

Cla.

But in this object

Hardly deserv'd my thanks.

Pio.

Is there ought else

You will command me?

Cla.

1415

Onely your sword

Which I must have: nay willingly I yet know

To force it, and to use it.

Pio.

'Tis yours Lady.

Cla.

I ask no other guard.

Pio.

1420

If so I leave you:

And now, if that the Constable keepe his word,

A poorer man may chance to gull a Lord.

Exit.

Mal.

By this good — you shall not.

Vit.

By this —

1425

I must, and will, Malroda; What doe you make

A stranger of me?

Mal.

Ile be so to you,

And you shall find it.

Vit.

These are your old arts

1430

T'endeere the game you know I come to hunt for,

Which I have borne too coldly.

Mal.

Doe so still,

For if I h at you, hang me.

Vit.

If you doe not

1435

I know who'll starve for't: why, thou shame of women,

Whose folly, or whose impudence is greater

Is doubtfull to determine; this to me

That know thee for a whore.

Mal.

And made me one,

1440

Remember that.

Vit.

Why should I but grow wise

And tye that bounty up, which nor discretion

Nor honour can give way too; thou wouldst be

A Bawd e're twenty, and within a moneth

1445

A barefoot, lowzie, and diseased whore,

And shift thy lodgings oftner then a rogue

That's whipt from post to post.

Mal.

Pish: all our Colledge

Know you can raile well in this kinde.

Cla.

1450

For me

He never spake so well.

Vit.

I have maintain'd thee

The envy of great fortunes, made thee shine

As if thy name were glorious: stuck thee full

1455

Of jewels, as the firmament of Starrs,

And in it made thee so remarkable

That it grew questionable, whether vertue poore,

Or vice so set forth as it is in thee,

Were even by modesties selfe to be prefer'd,

1460

And am I thus repaid?

You are still my debtor;

Can this (though true) be weigh'd with my lost honour,

Much lesse my faith? I have liv'd private to you,

And but for you, had ne're known what lust was,

1465

Nor what the sorrow for't.

Vit.

'Tis false.

Mal.

'Tis true,

But how return'd by you, thy whole life being

But one continued act of lust, and Shipwrack

1470

Of womens chastities.

Vit.

But that I know

That she that dares be damn'd dares any thing,

I should admire thy tempting me: but presume not

On the power you thinke you hold o're my affections,

1475

It will deceive you: yeeld, and presently

Or by the inflamed blood, which thou must quench

Ile make a forcible entrie.

Mal.

Touch me not:

You know I have a throat, — if you doe

1480

I will cry out a rape, or sheath this here,

Ere i'le be kept, and us'd for Julip-water

T'allay the heate which lushious meats and wine

And not desire hath rais'd.

Vit.

A desperate devill,

1485

My blood commands my reason: I must take

Some milder way.

Mal.

I hope (deere Don) I fit you.

The night is mine, although the day was yours

You are not fasting now: this speeding trick

1490

Which I would as a principle leave to all,

That make their maintenance out of their own Indies

As I doe now; my good old mother taught me,

Daughter, quoth she, contest not with your lover

His stomach being empty; let wine heat him,

1495

And then you may command him: 'tis a sure one:

His lookes shew he is coming.

Vit.

Come this needs not,

Especially to me: you know how deere

I ever have esteemed you.

Cla.

1500

Lost again.

Vit.

That any sight of yours, hath power to change

My strongest resolution, and one teare

Sufficient to command a pardon from me,

For any wrong from you, which all mankinde

1505

Should kneel in vaine for.

Mal.

Pray you pardon those

That need your favour, or desire it

Vit.

Prethee.

Be better temper'd: Ile pay as a forfeit

1510

For my rash anger, this purse fil'd with Gold.

Thou shalt have servants, gownes, attires, what not?

Only continue mine.

Mal.

'Twas this I fish'd for

Vit.

Look on me, and receive it.

Mal.

1515

Well, you know

My gentle nature, and take pride t'abuse it:

You see a trifle pleases me, we are friends;

This kisse, and this confirmes it.

Cla.

With my ruine.

Mal.

1520

I'le have this dyamond; and this pearle.

Vit.

They are yours.

Mal.

But wil you not, when you have what you came for,

Take them from me to morrow? tis a fashion

Your Lords of late have us'd.

Vit.

1525

But Ile not follow.

Cla.

That any man at such a rate as this

Should pay for his repentance.

Vit.

Shall we to bed now?

Mal.

Instantly, Sweet: yet now I think on't better

1530

Ther's something first that in a word or two

I must acquaint you with.

Cla.

Can I cry ayme,

To this against my selfe? Ile break this match,

Or make it stronger with my bloud.

Descends.

Enter Alguazier, Piorato, Pachieco, Metaldi, Mendoza, Lazarillo, &c.

Alg.

1535

I am yours,

A Don's not priviledgd here more then yourself,

Win her, and weare her.

Pio.

Have you a Priest ready?

Alg.

I have him for thee, Lad; and when I have

1540

Married this scornefull whore to this poor gallant.

She wil make suit to me; there is a trick

To bring a high-priz'd wench upon her knees:

For you my fine neat Harpyes stretch your tallons

And prove your selves true night-Birds.

Pach.

1545

Take my word

For me and all the rest.

Laz.

If there be meat

Or any banquet stirring, you shall see

How ile bestow my selfe.

Alg.

1550

When they are drawn,

Rush in upon 'em: al's faire prize you light on:

I must away: your officer may give way

To the Knavery of his watch, but must not see it.

You all know where to finde me.

Exit.

Met.

1555

There look for us.

Vit.

Who's that?

Mal.

My Piorato, welcome, welcome:

Faith had you not come when you did, my Lord

Had done I know not what to me.

Vit.

1560

I am gul'd,

First cheated of my Jewels, and then laugh'd at:

Sirha, what make you here?

Pio.

A businesse brings me,

More lawfull then your own,

Vit.

1565

How's that, you slave?

Mal.

He's such, that would continue his a whore

Whom he would make a wife of.

Vit.

Ile trea'd upon

The face you doat on, strumpet.

Enter Clara.

Pach.

1570

Keep the peace there.

Vit.

A plot upon my life too?

Met.

Down with him.

Cla.

Show your old valour, and learn from a woman,

One Eagle has a world of odds against

1575

A flight of Dawes, as these are.

Pio.

Get you off,

Ile follow instantly.

Pach.

Run for more help there.

Exeunt all but Vit. and Clara.

Vit.

Losse of my gold, & jewels, & the wench too

1580

Afflicts me not so much, as th'having Clara

The witnesse of my weaknesse.

Cla.

He turns from me,

And yet I may urge merit, since his life

Is made my second gift.

Vit.

1585

May I ne'r prosper

If I know how to thank her.

Cla.

Sir, your pardon

For pressing thus beyond a Virgins bounds

Upon your privacies: and let my being

1590

Like to a man, as you are, be th'excuse

Of my solliciting that from you, which shall not

Be granted on my part, although desir'd

By any other: sir, you understand me,

And 'twould shew nobly in you, to prevent

1595

From me a farther boldnesse, which I must

Proceed in, if you prove not mercifull,

Though with my losse of blushes, and good name.

Vit.

Madam, I know your wil, and would be thankfull

If it were possible I could affect

1600

The Daughter of an enemy.

Cla.

That faire false one

Whom with fond dotage you have long pursu'd

Had such a father: she to whom you pay

Deerer for your dishonour, then all titles

1605

Ambitious men hunt for are worth.

Vit.

'Tis truth.

Cla.

Yet, with her, as a friend you still exchange

Health for diseases, and to your disgrace

Nourish the rivals to your present pleasures,

1610

At your own charge, us'd as a property

To give a safe protection to her lust,

Yet share in nothing but the shame of it.

Vit.

Grant all this so, to take you for a wife

Were greater hazard, for should I offend you

1615

(As tis not easy still to please a woman)

You are of so great a spirit, that I must learn

To weare your petticoat, for you wil have

My breeches from me.

Cla.

Rather from this houre

1620

I here abjure all actions of a man,

And wil esteem it happinesse from you

To suffer like a woman: love, true love

Hath made a search within me, and expel'd

All but my naturall softnesse, and made perfect

1625

That which my parents care could not begin.

I wil show strength in nothing, but my duty,

And glad desire to please you, and in that

Grow every day more able.

Vit.

Could this be,

1630

What a brave race might I beget? I finde

A kind of yeelding; and no reason why

I should hold longer out: she's yong, and faire,

And chast for sure, but with her leave the Devil

Durst not attempt her: Madam, though you have

1635

A Souldiers arme, your lips appear as if

They were a Ladies.

Cla.

They dare sir from you

Endure the tryall.

Vit.

Ha: once more I pray you:

1640

The best I ever tasted; and tis said

I have prov'd many, 'tis not safe I feare

To aske the rest now: wel, I will leave whoring

And luck herein send me with her: worthiest Lady,

Ile wait upon you home, and by the way

1645

(If ere I many, as ile not forswear it)

Tell you, you are my wife.

Cla.

Which if you do,

From me all man-kinde women, learne to woe.

Exeunt.

Scaena Tertia.

Enter Alguazier, Pachieco, Metaldi, Mendoza, Lararillo.

Alg.

A cloak? good purchase, and rich hangers? well,

1650

Wee'l share ten Pistolets a man

Laz.

Yet still

I am monstrous hungry: could you not diduct

So much out of the grosse some, as would purchase

Eight loynes of Veale, and some two dozen of Capons?

Pach.

1655

O strange proportion for five.

Laz.

For five? I have

A legion in my stomach that have kept

Perpetuall fast these ten years: for the Capons,

They are to me but as so many black Birds:

1660

May I but eate once, and be satisfied,

Let the fates call me, when my ship is fraught,

And I shall hang in peace.

Alg.

Steale well to night,

And thou shalt feed to morrow; so now you are

1665

Your selves againe, ile raise another watch

To free you from suspition: set on any

You meet with boldly: Ile not be far off,

T'assist you, and protect you.

Exit.

Met.

O brave officer.

Enter Alvarez, Lucio, Bobadilla.

Pach.

1670

Would every ward had one but so well given,

And we would watch for rug, in gownes of velvet.

Mend.

Stand close: a prize.

Met.

Satten, and gold Lace, Lads.

Alv.

Why do'st thou hang upon me?

Luc.

1675

'Tis so darke

I dare not see my way: for heaven sake father

Let us go home.

Bob.

No, ev'n here wee'l leave you:

Let's run away from him, my Lord.

Luc.

1680

Oh 'las.

Alv.

Thou hast made me mad: and I wil beat thee dead

Then bray the in a morter, and now mold thee

But I wil alter thee.

Bob.

'Twill never be:

1685

He has bin three dayes practising to drink,

Yet still he sips, like to a waiting woman,

And looks as he were murdring of a fart

Among wild Irish swaggerers.

Luc

I have still

1690

Your good word, Zancho, father.

Alv.

Milk-sop coward;

No house of mine receives thee: I disclaim thee,

Thy mother; on her knees shall not entreat me

Hereafter to acknowledge thee.

Luc.

1695

Pray you speak for me.

Bob.

I would; but now I cannot with mine honour.

Alv.

Ther's only one course left, that may redeem thee,

Which is, to strike the next man that you meet,

And if we chance to light upon a woman,

1700

Take her away, and use her like a man,

Or I wil cut thy hamstrings.

Pach.

This makes for us

Alv.

What do'st thou do now?

Luc.

Sir, I am saying my prayers;

1705

For being to undertake what you would have me,

I know I cannot live.

Enter Lamorall, Genevora, Anastro, and Pages with lights.

Lam

Madam, I fear

You'l wish you had usd your coach: your brothers house

Is yet far off.

Gen.

1710

The better sir: this walk

Will help digestion after your great supper,

Of which I have fed largely.

Alv.

To your task,

Or els you know what followes:

Luc.

1715

I am dying:

Now Lord have mercy on me: by your favour,

Sir I must strike you.

Lam.

For what cause?

Luc.

I know not:

1720

And I must likewise talke with that young Lady,

An houre in private.

Lam.

What you must, is doubtfull,

But I am certain sir, I must beat you.

Luc.

Help, help.

Alv.

1725

Not strik againe?

Lam.

How, Alvarez?

An.

This for my Lord Vitell's love.

Pach.

Break out,

And like true theeves, make pray on either side,

1730

But seem to help the stranger.

Bob.

Oh my Lord,

They have beat him on his knees.

Luc.

Though I want courage:

I yet have a sons duty in me, and

1735

Compassion of a fathers danger; that,

That wholy now possesses me.

Alv.

Lucio.

This is beyond my hope.

Met.

So Lazarillo,

1740

Take up all boy: well done.

Pach.

And now steale off

Closely, and cunningly.

An.

How? have I found you?

Why Gentlemen, are you madde, to make your selves

1745

A prey to Rogues?

Lam.

Would we were off.

Bob.

Theeves, theeves.

Lam.

Defer our own contention: and down with them.

Luc.

Ile make you sure.

Bob.

1750

Now he playes the Devil.

Gen.

This place is not for me.

Exit.

Luc.

Ile follow her

Half of my pennance is past ore.

Exit.

Enter Alguazier, Assistente and other Watches.

Alg.

What noyse?

1755

What tumult's there? keep the Kings peace I charge you.

Pach.

I am glad he's come yet.

Alv.

O, you keep good Guard

Upon the City, when men of our ranck

Are set upon in the streetes.

Lam.

1760

The assistance

Shall heare of't be assur'd.

An.

And if he be

That carefull Governour he is reported,

You will smart for it.

Alg.

1765

Patience, good Signiours:

Let me survey the Rascals: O, I know them,

And thank you for them: they are pillfring rogues

Of Andaluzia, that have perus'd

All Prisons in Castile: I dare not trust

1770

The dungeon with them: no, ile have them home

To my own house.

Pach.

We had rather go to prison.

Alg.

Had you so dog-holts? yes, I know you had:

You there would use your cunning fingers on

1775

The simple locks; you would: but ile prevent you.

Lam

My Mistris lost? good night.

Exit.

Bob.

Your Son's gon to,

What should become of him?

Alv.

Come of him, what will:

1780

Now he dares fight, I care not: i'le to bed:

Look to your prisoners Alguazier.

Exit with Boba.

Alg.

Al's cleer'd:

Droop not for one disaster: let us hug,

And triumph in our knaveries.

Assist.

1785

This confirmes

What was reported of him.

Met.

'Twas done bravely.

Alg.

I must a little glory in the meanes

We officers have, to play the Knaves, and safely:

1790

How we breake through the toyles, pitch'd by the Law,

Yet hang up them that are far lesse delinquents:

A simple shopkeeper's carted for a baud

For lodging (though unwittingly) a smock-Gamster:

Where, with rewards, and credit I have kept

1795

Malroda in my house, as in a cloyster,

Without taint, or suspition.

Pach.

But suppose

The Governour should know't?

Alg.

He? good Gentleman,

1800

Let him perplex himself with prying into

The measures in the market, and th'abuses

The day stands guilty of: the pillage of the night

Is only mine, mine own feesimple;

Which you shall hold from me, tennants at will,

1805

And pay no rent for't.

Pach.

Admirable Landlord.

Alg.

Now wee'l go search the taverns, commit such

As we finde drinking: and be drunk our selves

With what we take from them: these silly wretches

1810

Whom I for forme sake only have brought hither

Shall watch without, and guard us.

Assist.

And we wil.

See you safe lodg'd, most worthy Alguazier,

With all of you his comrads.

Met.

1815

Tis the Governour.

Alg.

We are betray'd?

Assist.

My guard there: bind them fast:

How men in high place, and authority

Are in their lives and estimation wrong'd

1820

By their subordinate Ministers? yet such

They cannot but imploy: wrong'd justice finding

Scarce one true servant in ten officers.

'T'xpostulate with you, were but to delay

Your crimes due punishment, which shall fall upon you

1825

So speedily, and severely, that it shall

Fright others by th'example: and confirme

How ever corrupt officers may disgrace

Themselves, 'tis not in them to wrong their place.

Bring them away.

Alg.

1830

Wee'l suffer nobly yet,

And like to Spanish Gallants.

Pach.

And wee'l hang so.

Laz.

I have no stomach to it: but i'le endeavour.

Exeunt.

Scaena Quarta.

Enter Lucio, and Genevora.

Gen.

Nay you are rude; pray you forbeare; your offer now

1835

More then the breeding of a Gentleman

Can give you warrant for.

Luc.

Tis but to kisse you,

And think not ile receive that for a favour

Which was enjoyn'd me for a pennance, Lady.

Gen.

1840

You have met a gentle confessor, and for once

(So men you wil rest satisfied) I vouchsafe it.

Luc.

Rest satisfide with a kisse? why can a man

Desire more from a woman? is there any

Pleasure beyond it? may I never live

1845

If I know what it is.

Gen.

Sweet Innocence.

Luc

VVhat strange new motions do I feele? my veines

Burn with an unknown fire: in every part

I suffer alteration: I am poysond,

1850

Yet languish with desire againe to taste it,

So sweetly it works on me.

Gen.

I ne'r saw

A lovely man, till now.

Luc.

How can this be?

1855

She is a woman, as my mother is,

And her I have kiss'd often, and brought off

My lips unscortch'd; yours are more lovelie, Lady,

And so should be lesse hurtfull: pray you vouchsafe

Your hand, to quench the heat tane from your Lip,

1860

Perhaps that may restore me.

Gen.

VVillinglie.

Luc.

The flame increases: if to touch you, burne thus,

VVhat would more strict embraces do? I know not,

And yet methinks to die so; were to ascend

1865

To Heaven, through Paradise.

Gen.

I am wounded too,

Though modesty forbids that I should speake

VVhat ignorance makes him bold in: why do you fix

Your eyes so stronglie on me?

Luc.

1870

Pray you stand still,

There is nothing els, that is worth the looking on:

I could adore you, Ladie.

Gen.

Can you love mee?

Luo.

To waite on you, in your chamber, and but touch

1875

VVhat you, by wearing it, have made divine,

Were such a happinesse. I am resov'd,

Ile sell my libertie to you for this glove,

And write my selfe your slave.

Enter Lamorall.

Gen.

On easier termes,

1880

Receive it as a friend.

Lam.

How! giving favour!

I'le have it with his heart.

Gen.

VVhat will you doe?

Luc.

As you are mercifull, take my life rather.

Gen.

1885

VVill you depart with't so?

Lam.

Do's that grieve you?

Gen.

I know not: but even now you appeare valiant.

Luc.

Twas to preserve my father: in his cause

I could be so again.

Gen.

1890

Not in your own? Kneel to thy rivall and thine enemy?

Away unworthy creature, I begin

To hate my selfe, for giving entrance to

A good opinion of thee: For thy torment,

If my poore beauty be of any power,

1895

Mayst thou doat on it desperately: but never

Presume to hope for grace, till thou recover

And weare the favour that was ravish'd from thee.

Lam.

He weares my head to then.

Gen.

Poore foole, farewell.

Exit.

Luc.

1900

My womanish soul, which hitherto hath governd

This coward flesh, I feele departing from me;

And in me by her beauty is inspir'd

A new, and masculine one: instructing me

What's fit to doe or suffer; powerfull love

1905

That hast with loud, and yet a pleasing thunder

Rous'd sleeping manhood in me, thy new creature,

Perfect thy worke so that I may make known

Nature (though long kept back) wil have her owne.

Exeunt.

Actus Quintus.

Scaena prima.

Enter Lamorall and Lucio.

Lam.

Can it be possible, that in six short houres

1910

The subiect still the same, so many habits

Should be remov'd? or this new Lucio, he

That yesternight was baffeld and disgrac'd,

And thankt the man that did it, that then kneeld

And blubberd like a woman, should now dare

1915

One terme of honour seeke reparation

For what he then appear'd not capable of?

Luc.

Such miracles, men that dare doe injuries

Live to their shames to see, and for punishment

And scourge to their proud follies.

Lam.

1920

Prethee leave me:

Had I my Page, or foot-man here to flesh thee,

I durst the better heare thee.

Luc.

This scorn needs not:

And offer such no more.

Lam.

1925

Why say I should,

You'l not be angry?

Luc.

Indeed I think I shal,

Would you vouchsafe to shew your selfe a Captaine,

And lead a little further, to some place

1930

That's lesse frequented.

Lam.

He looks pale.

Luc.

If not,

Make use of this.

Lam.

There's anger in his eyes too:

1935

His gesture, voyce, behaviour, all new fashion'd;

Wel, if it does endure in act the triall

Of what in show it promises to make good,

Ulysses Cyclops, Io's transformation,

Eurydice fetcht from Hell, with all the rest

1940

Of Ovids Fables, ile put in your Creed;

And for proofe, all incredible things may be

Writ down that Lucio, the coward Lucio,

The womanish Lucio fought.

Luc.

and Lamorall,

1945

The stil imployd great duellist Lamorall.

Took his life from him.

Lam.

Twill not come to that sure:

Methinks the onely drawing of my Sword

Should fright that confidence.

Luc.

1950

It confirmes it rather.

To make which good, know you stand now oppos'd

By one that is your Rivall, one that wishes

Your name and title greater, to raise his;

The wrong you did, lesse pardonable then it is,

1955

But your strength to defend it, more then ever

It was when justice friended it. The Lady

For whom we now contend, Genevora

Of more desert, (if such incomparable beauty

Could suffer an addition) your love

1960

To Don Vitelli multipli'd, and your hate

Aagainst my father and his house increas'd;

And lastly, that the Glove which you there wear,

To my dishonour, (which I must force from you)

Were deerer to you then your life.

Lam.

1965

You'l finde

It is, and so ile guard it:

Luc.

All these meet then

With the black infamy, to be foyld by one

That's not allowd a man: to help your valour,

1970

That falling by your hand, I may, or die,

Or win in this one single opposition

My Mistris, and such honour as I may

Inrich my fathers Armes with.

Lam.

Tis said Nobly;

1975

My life with them are at the stake.

Luc.

At all then.

Fight.

Lam.

She's yours: this, and my life, to follow your fortune;

And give not onely back that part the looser

Scorns to accept of —

Luc.

1980

What's that?

Lam.

My poor life,

Which do not leave me as a further torment,

Having dispoild me of my Sword, mine honour,

Hope of my Ladies grace, fame, and all else

1985

That made it worth the keeping.

Luc.

I take back

No more from you, then what you forc'd from me;

And with a worser title: yet think not

That Ile dispute this, as made insolent

1990

By my successe, but as one equall with you,

If so you wil accept me; that new courage,

Or call it fortune if you please, that is

Confer'd upon me by the onely sight

Of fair Genevora, was not bestow'd on me

1995

To bloody purposes: nor did her command

Deprive me of the happinesse to see her

But till I did redeem her favour from you;

Which onely I rejoyce in, and share with you

In all you suffer else.

Lam.

2000

This curtesie

Wounds deeper then your Sword can, or mine owne;

Pray you make use of either, and dispatch me.

Luc.

The barbarous Turke is satisfied with spoile;

And shall I, being possest of what I came for,

2005

Prove the more Infidell?

Lam.

You were better be so,

Then publish my disgrace, as tis the custome,

And which I must expect.

Luc.

Judge better on me:

2010

I have no tongue to trumpet mine owne praise

To your dishonour: tis a bastard courage

That seekes a name out that way, no true born one;

Pray you be comforted, for by all goodnesse

But to her vertuous selfe, the best part of it,

2015

I never wil discover on what termes

I came by these: which yet I take not from you,

But leave you in exchange of them, mine own,

With the desire of being a friend; which if

You wil not grant me, but on further triall

2020

Of manhood in me, seeke me when you please,

(And though I might refuse it with mine honour)

Win them again, and weare them: so good morrow.

Exit.

Lam.

I nere knew what true valour was till now;

And have gain'd more by this disgrace, then all

2025

The honours I have won: they made me proud,

Presumptuous of my fortune; a meere beast,

Fashion'd by them, onely to dare and doe:

Yeelding no reasons for my wilfull actions

But what I stuck on my Swords point, presuming

2030

It was the best Revenew. How unequall

Wrongs wel maintain'd makes us to others, which

Ending with shame teach as to know our selves,

I wil think more on't.

Enter Vitelli.

Vit.

Lamorall.

Lam.

2035

My Lord?

Vit.

I came to seeke you.

Lam.

And unwillingly;

You nere found me till now: your pleasure sir?

Vit.

That which wil please thee friend: thy vowd love to me

2040

Shall now be put in action: means is offer'd

To use thy good Sword for me; that which still

Thou wearst, as if it were a part of thee.

Where is it?

Lam.

Tis changd for one more fortunate:

2045

Pray you enquire not how.

Vit.

Why, I nere thought

That there was musick int, but ascribe

The fortune of it to the arme.

Lam.

Which is grown weaker too. I am not (in a word)

2050

Worthy your friendship: I am one new vanquish'd,

Yet shame to tell by whom.

Vit.

But Ile tell thee

Gainst whom thou art to fight, and there redeeme

Thy honour lost, if there be any such:

2055

The King, by my long suit, at length is pleas'd

That Alvarez and my self, with eithers Second,

Shall end the difference between our houses,

Which he accepts of I make choice of thee;

And where you speak of a disgrace, the means

2060

To blot it out, by such a publique triall

Of thy approved valour, wil revive

Thy ancient courage. If you imbrace it, doe;

If not, Ile seeke some other.

Lam.

As I am

2065

You may command me.

Vit.

Spoke like that true friend

That loves not onely for his private end.

Exeunt.

Scaena secunda.

Enter Genevora with a Letter and Bobadilla.

Gen.

This from Madona Clara?

Bob.

Yes, and 't please you.

Gen.

2070

Alvarez daughter?

Bob.

The same, Lady.

Gen.

She,

That sav'd my brothers life?

Bob.

You are still in the right,

2075

She wil'd me wait your walking forth: and knowing

How necessary a discreet wise man

Was in a businesse of such weight, she pleas'd

To think on me: it may be in my face

Your Ladiship not acquainted with my wisdome

2080

Finds no such matter: what I am, I am;

Thought's free: and think you what you please.

Gen.

Tis strange,

Bob.

That I should be wise, Madam?

Gen.

No, thou art so;

2085

There's for thy paines: and prethee tell thy Lady

I wil not faile to meet her: Ile receive

Thy thanks and duty in thy present absence:

Farewell, farewel, I say, now thou art wise.

Exit Bob.

She writes here, she hath something to impart

2090

That may concerne my brothers life; I know not,

But generall fame does give her out so worthy,

That I dare not suspect her: yet wish Lucio

Enter Lucio.

Were Master of her mind: but fie upon't;

Why do I think on him? see, I am punish'd for it,

2095

In his unlookd for presence: Now I must

Endure another tedious piece of Courtship,

Would make one forsweare curtesie.

Luc.

Gracious Madam,

The sorrow paid for your just anger towards me

2100

Arising from my weaknesse, I presume

To presse into your presence, and dispaire not

An easie pardon.

Gen.

He speaks sende: oh strange.

Luc.

And yet believe, that no desire of mine,

2105

Though all are too strong in me, had the power

For their delight, to force me to infringe

What you commanded, it being in your part

To lessen your great rigour when you please,

And mine to suffer with an humble patience

2110

What you'l impose upon it.

Gen.

Courtly too.

Luc.

Yet hath the poore, and contemn'd Lucio, Madam,

(Made able onely by his hope to serve you)

Recover'd what with violence, not justice,

2115

Was taken from him: and here at your feet

With these, he could have laid the conquer'd head

Of Lamorall (tis all I say of him)

For rudely touching that, which as a relique

I ever would have worship'd, since twas yours.

Gen.

2120

Valiant, and every thing a Lady could

Wish in her servant.

Luc.

All that's good in me,

That heavenly love, the opposite to base lust,

Which would have all men worthy, hath created;

2125

Which being by your beames of beauty form'd,

Cherish as your own creature.

Gen.

I am gone

Too far now to dissemble: rise, or sure

I must kneele with you too: let this one kisse

2130

Speake the rest for me: tis too much I doe,

And yet, if chastity would, I could wish more.

Luc.

In overjoying me, you are grown sad;

What is it Madam? by —

There's nothing that's within my nerves (and yet

2135

Favour'd by you, I should as much as man)

But when you please, now or on all occasions

You can think of hereafter, but you may

Dispose of at your pleasure.

Gen.

If you breake

2140

That oath again, you lost me. Yet so wel

I love you, I shall never put you to't;

And yet forget it not: rest satisfied

With that you have receiv'd now: there are eyes

May be upon us, till the difference

2145

Between our friends are ended: I would not

Be seen so private with you.

Luc.

I obey you.

Gen.

But let me heare oft from you, and remember

I am Vitellies sister.

Luc:

2150

What's that Madam?

Gen.

Nay nothing, fare you well: who feeles loves fire,

Would ever aske to have means to desire.

Exeunt

Scena tertia.

Enter Assistente, Sayavedra, Anastro, Herald, Attendants.

Assis.

Are they come in?

Har.

Yes.

Assis.

2155

Read the Proclamation,

That all the people here assembled may

Have satisfaction, what the Kings deere love,

In care of the Republique, hath ordained;

Attend with silence: read aloud.

2160

Herald reads. FOrasmuch as our high and mighty Master, Philip, the potent and most Catholique King of Spaine, hath not onely in his own Royall person, been long, and often sollicited, and grieved, with the deadly and uncurable hatred, sprung up betwixt the two ancient and most honourably discended Houses of these his two deerely and equally beloved Subjects, Don Ferdinando de Alrarez, and Don Pedro de Vitelli : (all which in vaine his Majesty hath often endeavoured to reconcile and qualifie:) But that also through the debates, quarrels, and outrages daily arising, falling, and flowing from these great heads, his publique civill Government is seditiously and barbarously molested and wounded, and many of his chiefe Gentry (no lesse tender to his Royall Majesty then the very branches of his own sacred blood) spoyld, lost, and submerged, in the impious inundation and torrent of their still-growing malice: It hath therefore pleased His sacred Majesty, out of His infinite affection to preserve his Common-wealth, and generall peace, from farther violation, (as a sweet and heartily loving father of his people) and on the earnest petitions of these Arch-enemies, to Order, and Ordaine, That they be ready, each with his wel-chosen and beloved friend, arm'd at all points like Gentlemen, in the Castle of St. Jago, on this present Munday morning betwixt eight and nine of the clocke; where (before the combatants be allowed to commence this granted Duell) This to be read aloud for the publique satisfaction of his Majesties welbeloved Subjects. 'Save the King.

Drums within.

Say.

Hark how their Drums speak their insatiate thirst

Of blood, and stop their eares 'gainst pious peace,

Who gently whispering, implores their friendship?

Assis.

2165

Kings, nor authority can master fate;

Admit 'em then, and blood extinguish hate.

Enter severally, Alvarez and Lucio, Vitelli and Lamora.

Say.

Stay, yet be pleasd to think, and let not daring

Wherein men nowadaies exceed even beasts,

And think themselves not men else, so transport you

2170

Beyond the bounds of Christianity:

Lord Alvarez, Vitelli, Gentlemen,

No Town in Spaine, from our Metropolis

Unto the rudest hovell, but is great

With your assured valours daily proofes:

2175

Oh wil you then, for a superfluous fame,

A sound of honour, which in these times, all

Like heretiques professe (with obstinacy)

But most erroneously, venture your soules,

Tis a hard tasque, thorough a Sea of blood

2180

To saile, and land at Heaven?

Vit.

I hope not

If justice be my Pilot: but my Lord,

You know, if argument, or time, or love,

Could reconcile, long since we had shook hands;

2185

I dare protest, your breath cooles not a veine

In any one of us, but blowes the fire

Which nought but blood reciprocall can quench.

Alv.

Vitelli, thou sayst bravely, and sayst right,

And I wil kill thee for't, I love thee so.

Vit.

2190

Ha, ha, old man: upon thy death Ile build

A story (with this arme) for thy old wife

To tell thy daughter Clara seven yeeres hence

As she sits weeping by a winter fire,

How such a time Vitelli slew her husband

2195

With the same Sword his daughter favour'd him,

And lives, and weares it yet: Come Lamorall,

Redeeme thy selfe.

Lam.

Lucio, Genevora

Shall on this Sword receive thy bleeding heart,

2200

For my presented hat, laid at her feet.

Luc.

Thou talkst wel Lamorall, but tis thy head

That I wil carry to her to thy hat:

Fie father, I do coole too much.

Alv.

Oh boy:

2205

Thy fathers true sonne:

Beat Drums, — and so good morrow to your Lordship.

Enter above Eugenia, Clara, Genevora.

Say.

Brave resolutions.

Anast.

Brave, and Spanish right.

Gen.

Lucio.

Cla.

2210

Vitelli.

Eug.

Alvarez.

Alv.

How the devill

Got these Cats into th' gutter? my pusse too?

Eug.

Heare us.

Gen.

2215

We must be heard.

Cla.

We will be heard

Vitelli; looke, see Clara on her knees

Imploring thy compassion: Heaven, how sternly

They dart their emulous eyes, as if each scorn'd

2220

To be behind the other in a look!

Mother, death needs no Sword here: oh my sister

(Fate faine would have it so) perswade, entreat,

A Ladies teares are silent Orators

(Or should be so at least) to move beyond

2225

The honest tongu'd-Rethoritian:

Why will you fight? why do's an uncles death

Twentie yeare old, exceed your love to me

But twentie daies? whose forc'd cause, and faire manner

You could not understand, onely have heard.

2230

Custome, that wrought so cunningly on nature

In me, that I forgot my sex, and knew not

Whether my body femall were, or male,

You did unweave, and had the power to charme

A new creation in me, made me feare

2235

To think on those deeds I did perpetrate,

How little power though you allow to me

That cannot with my sighes, my teares, my prayers

Move you from your own losse, if you shoule gaine.

Vit.

I must forget you Clara, 'till I have

2240

Redeem'd my uncles blood, that brands my face

Like a pestiferous Carbuncle: I am blinde

To what you doe: deafe to your cries: and Marble

To all impulsive exorations.

When on this point, I have pearch'd thy fathers soule,

2245

Ile tender thee this bloody reeking hand

Drawne forth the bowels of that murtherer:

If thou canst love me then, i'le marry thee,

And for thy father lost, get thee a Sonne;

On no condition else.

Assist.

2250

Most barbarous.

Say.

Savage.

Anast.

Irreligious.

Gen.

Oh Lucio!

Be thou more mercifull: thou bear'st fewer yeers,

2255

Art lately wean'd from soft effeminacy,

A maidens manners, and a maidens heart

Are neighbours still to thee: be then more milde,

Proceed not to this combat; bee'st thou desperate

Of thine owne life? yet (deerest) pitty mine

2260

Thy valour's not thine owne, I gave it thee,

These eyes begot it, this tongue bred it up,

This breast would lodge it: doe not use my gifts

To mine own ruine: I have made thee rich,

Be not so thanklesse, to undoe me for't.

Luc.

2265

Mistresse, you know I doe not weare a vaine.

I would not rip for you, to doe you service:

Life's but a word, a shadow, a melting dreame,

Compar'd to essentiall, and eternall honour.

Why, would you have me value it beyond

2270

Your brother: if I first cast down my sword

May all my body here, be made one wound,

And yet my soule not finde heaven thorough it.

Alv.

You would be catter-walling too, but peace,

Goe, get you home, and provide dinner for

2275

Your Sonne, and me: we'l be exceeding merry:

Oh Lucio, I will have thee cock of all

The proud Vitellies that doe live in Sprine:

Fie, we shall take cold: hunch: — I am hoarse

Already.

Lam.

2280

How your Sister whets my spleene!

I could eate Lucio now:

Gen.

Lamorall: you have often sworne

You'ld be commanded by me.

Gen.

Vitelli, Brother,

2285

Ev'n for your Fathers soule, your uncles blood,

As you doe love my life: but last, and most

As you respect your own Honour, and Fame,

Throw downe your sword; he is most valiant

That herein yeelds first.

Vit.

2290

Peace, you foole.

Cla.

Why Lucio,

Doe thou begin; 'tis no disparagement:

He's elder, and thy better, and thy valour

Is in his infancy.

Gen

2295

Or pay it me,

To whom thou ow'st it: Oh, that constant time

Would but goe back a week, then Lucio

Thou would'st not dare to fight.

Eug.

Lucio, thy Mother,

2300

Thy Mother beggs it: throw thy sword down first.

Alv.

Ile throw his head downe after then.

Gen.

Lamorall.

You have often swore you'ld be commanded by me.

Lam.

Never to this: your spight, and scorn Genevora,

2305

H'as lost all power in me:

Gen.

Your hearing for six words.

Ass.

Say. An. Strange obstinacy!

Al. Vit. Lu. Lam.

We'l stay no longer.

Cla.

Then by thy oath Vitelli,

2310

Thy dreadfull oath, thou wouldst returne that sword

When I should aske it, give it to me, now,

This instant I require it.

Gen.

By thy vow,

As dreadfull, Lucio, to obey my will

2315

In any one thing I would watch to challenge,

I charge thee not to strike a stroake: now he

Of our two brothers that loves perjurie

Best, and dares first be damn'd, infringe his vow.

Say.

Excellent Ladies.

Vit.

2320

Pish you tyrannize.

Luc.

We did equivocate.

Alv.

On.

Cla.

Then Lucio,

So well I love my husband, for he is so,

2325

(wanting but ceremony) that I pray

His vengefull sword may fall upon thy head

succesfully for false-hood to his Sister.

Gen.

I likewise pray (Vitelli) Lucio's sword

(who equally is my husband, as thou hers)

2330

May finde thy false heart, that durst gage thy faith,

And durst not keepe it.

Assist.

Are you men, or stone.

Alv.

Men, and we'l prove it with our swords:

Eug.

Your hearing for six words, and we have done,

2335

Zancho come forth — we'l fight our challenge too:

Enter

Now speake your resolutions.

Bobadilla with two swords and a Pistoll.

Gen.

These they are,

The first blow given betwixt you, sheathes these swords

In one anothers bosomes.

Eug.

2340

And rogue, looke

You at that instant doe discharge that Pistoll

Into my breast: if you start back, or quake,

Ile stick you like a Pigge.

Alv.

— hold: you are mad.

Gen.

2345

This we said: and by our hope of blisse

This we will doe: speake your intents.

Cla. Gen.

Strike.

Eug.

Shoot.

Al.

Vit. Lu. La. Hold, hold: all friends.

Assist.

2350

Come downe.

Alv.

These devillish women

Can make men friends and enemies when they list.

Say.

A gallant undertaking and a happie;

Why this is noble in you: and will be

2355

A well comer present to our Master Philip

Then the returne from his Indies.

Enter Clara, Genevora Eugenia and Bobadilla.

Cla.

Father your blessing.

Alv.

Take her: if he bring not

Betwixt you, boyes that will finde out new worlds,

2360

And win 'em too I'm a false Prophet.

Vit.

Brother.

There is a Sister: long divided streames

Mix now at length, by fate.

Bob.

I am not regarded: I was the carefull Steward that provided these Instruments of peace, I put the longest weapon in your Sisters hand, (my Lord) because she was the shortest Lady: For likely the shortest Ladies, love the longest — men: And for mine own part, I could have discharged it: my Pistoll is no ordinary Pistoll, it has two ramming Bullets; but thought I, why should I shoot my two bullets into my old Lady? if they had gon, I would not have staid long after: I would ev'n have died too, bravely y'faith, like a Roman-Steward: hung my selfe in mine owne Chaine; and there had been a story of Bobadilla, Spindola, Zancho, for after ages to lament: hum: I perceive I am not onely not regarded, but also not rewarded.

Alv.

2365

Prethee shalt have a new chaine, next

Saint Iaques day, or this new gilt:

Bob.

I am satisfied: let vertue have her due: And yet i am melancholy upon this atonement: pray heaven the State rue it not: I would my Lord Vitellies Steward, and I could meet: they should finde it should cost 'em a little more to make us friends: well, I will forsweare wine, and women for a yeere: and then I will be drunk to morrow, and runne a whoring like a dogge with a broken bottle at's taile; then will I repent next day, and forsweare 'em againe more vehemently: be for-sworne next day againe, and repent my repentance: for thus a melancholy Gentleman doth, and ought to live.

Assist.

Nay, you shall dine with me: and afterward

Ile with 'ye to the King: But first, I will

2370

Dispatch the Castles businesse, that this day

May be compleat. Bring forth the malefactors.

Enter Alguazier, Pachieco, Metaldi, Mendoza, Lazaril. Piorato. Malroda, & Guard.

You Alguazier, the Ringleader of these

Poore fellowes, are degraded from your office,

You must restore all stolne goods you receiv'd,

2375

And watch a twelve moneth without any pay:

This, if you faile of, (all your goods confiscate)

You are to be whipt, and sent into the Gallies.

Alg.

I like all, but restoring that Catholique doctrine

I doe dislike: Learn all ye officers

2380

By this to live uprightly (if you can)

Exit.

Assist.

You Cobler, to translate your manners new,

Are doom'd to th' Cloyster of the Mendicants,

With this your brother; botcher there, for nothing

To cobble, and heel hose for the poor Friers,

2385

Till they allow your pennance for sufficient,

And your amendment; then you shall be freed,

And may set up againe,

Pach.

Mendoza, come.

Our soules have trod awry, in all mens sight,

2390

We'l underlay 'em, till they goe upright.

Exit. Pach. & Mend.

Assist.

Smith, in those shackles you for your hard heart

Must lye by th'heeles a yeer.

Met.

I have shod your horse, my Lord.

Exit.

Assist.

Away: for you, my hungry white-loaf'd face,

2395

You must to th' Gallies, where you shall be sure

To have no more bits, then you shall have blowes.

Laz.

Well, though herrings want, I shall have rowes.

Assist.

Signior, you have prevented us, and punish'd

Your selfe severeller then we would have done.

2400

You have married a whore: may she prove honest.

Pio.

'Tis better my Lord, then to marry an honest woman

That may prove a whore.

Vit.

'Tis a hansome wench: and thou canst keepe her tame:

Ile send you what I promis'd.

Pio.

2405

Ioy to your Lordships.

Alv.

Here may all Ladies learne, to make of foes

The perfect'st friends: and not the perfect'st foes

Of deerest friends, as some doe now a dayes.

Vit.

Behold the power of love, to nature lost

2410

By custome irrecoverably, past the hope

Of friends restoring, love hath here retriv'd

To her own habit, made her blush to see

Her so long monstrous metamorphoses,

May strange affaires never have worse successe.

Exeunt.

EPILOGUE.

2415

OVr Author feares there are some Rebell hearts,

Whose dulnesse doth oppose loves peircing darts;

Such will be apt to say there wanted wit,

The language low, very few scaenes are writ

With spirit and life; such odde things as these

2420

He cares not for, nor ever meanes to please;

For if your selves a Mistresse or loves friends,

Are lik't with this smooth Play he hath his ends.

FINIS.

A PROLOGUE. At the reviving of this Play.

STatues and Pictures challenge price and fame;

If they can justly boast, and prove they came

2425

From Phidias or Apelles. None deny,

Poets and Painters hold a sympathy;

Yet their workes may decay and lose their grace,

Receiving blemish in their limbs or face.

When the minds art has this preheminence,

2430

She still retaineth her first excellence.

Then why should not this deere peece be esteem'd

Child to the richest fancies that ere teem'd?

When not their meanest off-spring, that came forth,

But bore the image of their fathers worth.

2435

Beaumonts, and Fletchers, whose desert outwayes

The best applause, and their least sprig of Bayes

Is worthy Phaebus; and who comes to gather

Their fruits of wit, he shall not rob the treasure.

Nor can you ever surfeit of the plenty,

2440

Nor can you call them rare, though they be dainty:

The more you take, the more you do them right,

And wee will thanke you for your own delight.

[ EDITORIAL CASTLIST

Vitelli

Lamorall

Anastro

Bobadilla

Lucio

Eugenia

Alvarez

Clara

Sayavedra

Pachieco

Lazarillo

Metaldi

Mendoza

Alguazier

Malroda

Piorato

Genevora

Assistente

Herald

Epilogue

Prologue

Clara and Genevora

Al., Vit., Lu., Lam.

LOVE CURE OR, The Martial Maid.

John Fletcher

Actus Primus

Scaena Prima.

Scaena Secunda.

Scaena Tertia.

Actus secundus.

Scaena prima.

Scaena Secunda.

Actus tertius,

Scaena prima.

Scaena secunda.

Scena tertia.

Scaena quarta.

Scaena quinta.

Actus quartus.

Scaena prima.

Scaena secunda.

Scaena Tertia.

Scaena Quarta.

Actus Quintus.

Scaena prima.

Scaena secunda.

Scena tertia.

EPILOGUE.

FINIS.

A PROLOGUE. At the reviving of this Play.