Gal. Come, 'tis dark, and time for our Design,—your Servant, Signiors. [Exeunt Fil. and Gal.

Lau. I'll home, and watch the kind deceiving Minute, that may conduct him by mistake to me. [Exit.

Enter Petro, like Barberacho, just as Tick. and Sir Signal are going out.

Sir Sig. Oh, Barberacho, we are undone! Oh, the Diavillo take that Master you sent me?

Pet. Master, what Master?

Sir Sig. Why, Signior Morigoroso!

Pet. Mor—oso—what shou'd he be?

Sir Sig. A Civility-Master he should have been, to have taught us good Manners;—but the Cornuto cheated us most damnably, and by a willing mistake taught us nothing in the world but Wit.

Pet. Oh, abominable Knavery! why, what a kind of Man was he?

Sir Sig.—Why—much such another as your self.

Tick. Higher, Signior, higher.

Sir Sig. Ay, somewhat higher—but just of his pitch.

Pet. Well, Sir, and what of this Man?

Sir Sig. Only pickt our Pockets, that's all.

Tick. Yes, and cozen'd us of our Rings.

Sir Sig. Ay, and gave us Cackamarda Orangata for Snuff.

Tick. And his Blessing to boot when he had done.

Sir Sig. A vengeance on't, I feel it still.

Pet. Why, this 'tis to do things of your own head; for I sent no such Signior Moroso—but I'll see what I can do to retrieve 'em—I am now a little in haste, farewell.— [Offers to go, Tick. goes out by him and jogs him.

Tick. Remember to meet me—farewel, Barberacho. [Goes out, Sir Sig. pulls him.

Sir Sig. Barberacho—is the Lady ready?

Pet. Is your Money ready?

Sir Sig. Why, now, though I am threatned, and kill'd, and beaten, and kick'd about this Intrigue, I must advance. [Aside.]—But dost think there's no danger?

Pet. What, in a delicate young amorous Lady, Signior?

Sir Sig. No, no, mum, I don't much fear the Lady; but this same mad fellow Galliard, I hear, has a kind of a hankering after her— Now dare not I tell him what a discovery I have made. [Aside.

Pet. Let me alone to secure you, meet me in the Piazzo d'Hispagnia, as soon as you can get yourself in order; where the two Fools shall meet, and prevent either's coming. [Aside.

Sir Sig. Enough,—here's a Bill for 500 Crowns more upon my Merchant, you know him by a good token, I lost the last Sum you receiv'd for me, a pox of that Handsel; away, here's company. [Ex. Pet. Enter Octavio and Crapine.] Now will I disguise my self, according to the mode of the Roman Inamoratos; and deliver my self upon the place appointed. [Ex. Sir Sig.

Oct. On the Corso didst thou see 'em?

Crap. On the Corso, my Lord, in discourse with three Cavaliers, one of which has given me many a Pistole, to let him into the Garden a-nights at Viterbo, to talk with Donna Marcella from her Chamber-Window, I think I shou'd remember him.

Oct. Oh, that Thought fires me with Anger fit for my Revenge, [Aside. And they are to serenade 'em, thou say'st?

Crap. I did, my Lord: and if you can have patience till they come, you will find your Rival in this very place, if he keep his word.

Oct. I do believe thee, and have prepared my Bravoes to attack him: if I can act but my Revenge to night, how shall I worship Fortune? Keep out of sight, and when I give the word, be ready all. I hear some coming, let's walk off a little.—

Enter Marcella in Man's Clothes, and Philippa as a Woman with a Lanthorn. Oct. and Crap. go off the other way.

Mar. Thou canst never convince me, but if Crapine saw us, and gaz'd so long upon us, he must know us too; and then what hinders but by a diligent watch about the House, they will surprize us, e'er we have secured our selves from 'em?

Phil. And how will this exposing your self to danger prevent 'em?

Mar. My design now is, to prevent Fillamour's coming into danger, by hindring his approach to this House: I wou'd preserve the kind Ingrate with any hazard of my own; and 'tis better to die than fall into the hands of Octavio. I'm desperate with that thought, and fear no danger: however, be you ready at the door, and when I ring admit me—ha—who comes here?

Enter Tickletext with a Periwig and Crevat of Sir Signal's: A Sword by his side, and a dark Lanthorn; she opens hers, looks on him, and goes out.

Tick. A Man! now am I, though an old Sinner, as timorous as a young Thief: 'tis a great inconvenience in these Popish Countrys, that a man cannot have liberty to steal to a Wench without danger; not that I need fear who sees me except Galliard, who suspecting my business, will go near to think I am wickedly inclin'd. Sir Signal I have left hard at his Study, and Sir Henry is no nocturnal Inamorato, unless like me he dissemble it.—Well, certo, 'tis a wonderful pleasure to deceive the World: And as a learned Man well observ'd, that the Sin of Wenching lay in the Habit only; I having laid that aside, Timothy Tickletext, principal Holder-forth of the Covent-Garden Conventicle, Chaplain of Buffoon-Hall in the County of Kent, is free to recreate himself.

Enter Gal. with a dark Lanthorn.

Gal. Where the Devil is this Fillamour? and the Mufick? which way cou'd he go to lose me thus? [Looks towards the Door. —He is not yet come—

Tick. Not yet come—that must be Barberacho!— Where are ye, honest Barberacho, where are ye? [Groping towards Gal.

Gal. Hah! Barberacho? that Name I am sure is us'd by none but Sir Signal and his Coxcomb Tutor; it must be one of those—Where are ye, Signior, where are ye? [Goes towards him, and opens the Lanthorn—and shuts it strait.

—Oh, 'tis the Knight,—are you there, Signior?

Tick. Oh, art thou come, honest Rascal—conduct me quickly, conduct me to the beautiful and fair Silvianetta. [Gives him his Hand.

Gal. Yes, when your Dogship's damn'd. Silvianetta! Sdeath, is she a Whore for Fools? [Draws.

Tick. Hah, Mr. Galliard, as the Devil would have it;—I'm undone if he sees me. [He retires hastily, Gal. gropes for him.

Gal. Where are you, Fop? Buffoon! Knight!

[Tickletext retiring hastily runs against Octavio, who is just entering, almost beats him down; Oct. strikes him a good blow, beats him back and draws: Tick, gets close up in a corner of the Stage; Oct. gropes for him, as Gal. does, and both meet and fight with each other.

—What, dare you draw,—you have the impudence to be valiant then in the dark, [they pass.] I wou'd not kill the Rogue,—'Sdeath, you can fight then, when there's a Woman in the case!

Oct. I hope 'tis Fillarnour; [Aside.] You'll find I can, and possibly may spoil your making Love to night.

Gal. Egad, Sweet-heart, and that may be, one civil Thrust will do't;— and 'twere a damn'd rude thing to disappoint so fine a Woman,—therefore I'll withdraw whilst I'm well. [He slips out.

Enter Sir Signal, with a Masquerading Coat over his Clothes, without a Wig or Crevat, with a dark Lanthorn.

Sir Sig. Well, I have most neatly escap'd my Tutor; and in this disguise defy the Devil to claim his own.—Ah, Caspeto de Deavilo;— What's that?

[Advancing softly, and groping with his hands, meets the point of Oct. Sword, as he is groping for Gal.

Oct. Traitor, darest thou not stand my Sword?

Sir Sig. Hah! Swords! no, Signior—scusa mea, Signioir,—

[Hops to the door: And feeling for his way with his out-stretcht Arms, runs his Lanthorn in Julio's face, who is just entring; finds he's oppos'd with a good push backward, and slips aside into a corner over-against Tickletext; Julio meets Octavio, and fights him; Oct. falls, Julio opens his Lanthorn, and sees his mistake.

Jut. Is it you, Sir?

Oct. Julio! From what Mistake grew all this Violence?

Jul. That I shou'd ask of you, who meet you arm'd against me.

Oct. I find the Night has equally deceiv'd us; and you are fitly come to share with me the hopes of dear Revenge. [Gropes for his Lanthorn, which is dropt.

Jul. I'd rather have pursu'd my kinder Passion, Love, and Desire, that brought me forth to night.

Oct. I've learnt where my false Rival is to be this Evening; And if you'll join your Sword, you'll find it well employ'd.

Jul. Lead on, I'm as impatient of Revenge as you.—

Oct. Come this way then, you'll find more Aids to serve us.

[Go out.

Tick.—So! Thanks be prais'd, all's still again, this Fright were enough to mortify any Lover of less magnanimity than my self.—Well, of all Sins, this itch of Whoring is the most hardy,—the most impudent in Repulses, the most vigilant in watching, most patient in waiting, most frequent in Dangers; in all Disasters but Disappointment, a Philosopher; yet if Barberacho come not quickly, my Philosophy will be put to't, certo.

[This while Sir Signal is venturing from his Post, listening, and slowly advancing towards the middle of the Stage.

Sir Sig. The Coast is once more clear, and I may venture my Carcase forth again,—though such a Salutation as the last, wou'd make me very unfit for the matter in hand.—The Battoon I cou'd bear with the Fortitude and Courage of a Hero: But these dangerous Sharps I never lov'd. What different Rencounters have I met withal to night, Corpo de me? A Man may more safely pass the Gulf of Lyons, than convoy himself into a Baudy-House in Rome; but I hope all's past, and I will say with Alexander,—Vivat Esperance en despetto del Fatto. [Advances a little.

Tick. Sure I heard a noise;—No, 'twas only my surmise.

[They both advance softly, meeting just in the middle of the Stage, and coming close up to each other; both cautiously start back, and stand a tipto in the posture of Fear, then gently feeling for each other, (after listening and hearing no Noise) draw back their Hands at touching each other's; and shrinking up their Shoulders, make grimaces of more Fear.

Tick. Que Equesto.

Sir Sig. Hah, a Man's Voice!—I'll try if I can fright him hence. [Aside. Una Malladette Spiritto Incarnate. [In a horrible tone.

Tick. Hah, Spiritto Incarnate! that Devil's Voice I shou'd know. [Aside.

Sir Sig. See, Signior! Una Spiritto, which is to say, un Spiritalo, Immortallo, Incorporallo, Inanimate, Immaterialle, Philosophicale, Invisible—Unintelligible—Diavillo. [In the same tone.

Tick. Ay, ay, 'tis my hopeful Pupil, upon the same design with me, my life on't,—cunning young Whore-master;—I'll cool your Courage—good Signior Diavillo; if you be the Diavillo, I have una certaina Immaterial Invisible Conjuratione, that will so neatly lay your Inanimate unintelligible Diavilloship.— [Pulls out his wooden Sword.

Sir Sig. How! he must needs be valiant indeed that dares fight with the Devil. [Endeavours to get away, Tick, beats him about the Stage.] —Ah, Signior, Signior, Mia! ah—Caspeto de Baccus—he cornuto, I am a damn'd silly Devil that have no dexterity in vanishing.

[Gropes and finds the Door—going out, meets just entring Fillamour, Galliard with all the Musick—he retires, and stands close.

—Hah,—what have we here, new Mischief?—

[Tick. and he stands against each other, on either side of the Stage.

Fil. Prithee how came we to lose ye?

Gal. I thought I had follow'd ye—but 'tis well we are met again. Come tune your Pipes.— [They play a little, enter Marcella as before.

Mar. This must be he. [Goes up to 'em.

Gal. Come, come, your Song, Boy, your Song.

Whilst 'tis singing, Enter Octavio, Julio, Crapine, and Bravos.

The SONG.

_Crudo Amore, Crudo Amore, Il mio Core non fa per te bis Suffrir non vo tormenti Senza mai sperar mar ce Belta che sia Tiranna, Belta che sia Tiranna Doll meo offerto recetto non e Il tuo rigor singunna Se le pene Le catene Tenta auolgere al mio pie See see Crudel Amore Il mio Core non fa per te. bis

Lusinghiero, Lusinghiero, Pui non Credo alta tua fe bis L' incendio del tuo foce Nel mio Core pui vivo none Belta che li die Luoce Belta che li die Luoce Ma il rigor L'Ardore s'bande Io non sato tuo gioce Ch' il Veleno Del mio seno Vergoroso faggito se n'e. See see Crudel Amore Il mio Core non fa per te_. bis

Oct. 'Tis they we look for, draw and be ready.—

Tick. Hah, draw—then there's no safety here, certo. [Aside.

[Octavio, Julio and their Party draw, and fight with Fil. and Gal. Marcella ingages on their side; all fight, the Musick confusedly amongst 'em: Gal. loses his Sword, and in the hurry gets a Base Viol, and happens to strike Tickletext, who is getting away—his Head breaks its way quite through, and it hangs about his neck; they fight out.

Enter_ Petro _with a Lanthorn. Sir_ Signal _stands close still_.

Tick. Oh, undone, undone! where am I, where am I?

Pet. Hah—that's the voice of my amorous Ananias,—or I am mistaken— what the Devil's the matter? [Opens his Lanthorn. —Where are ye, Sir?—hah, cuts so—what new-found Pillory have we here?

Tick. Oh, honest Barberacho, undo me, undo me quickly.

Pet. So I design, Sir, as fast as I can—or lose my aim—there, Sir, there: All's well—I have set you free, come follow me the back way into the house.

[Ex. Pet. and Tickletext.

Enter Fillamour and Marcella, with their Swords drawn, Gal. after 'em.

Gal. A plague upon 'em, what a quarter's here for a Wench, as if there were no more i'th' Nation?—wou'd I'd my Sword again. [Gropes for it.

Mar. Which way shall I direct him to be safer?—how is it, Sir? I hope you are not hurt.

Fil. Not that I feel, what art thou ask'st so kindly?

Mar. A Servant to the Roman Curtezan, who sent me forth to wait your coming, Sir; but finding you in danger, shar'd it with you.—Come, let me lead you into safety, Sir—

Fil. Thou'st been too kind to give me cause to doubt thee.

Mar. Follow me, Sir, this Key will give us entrance through the Garden. [Exeunt.

Enter Octavio with his Sword in his hand.

Oct. Oh! what damn'd luck had I so poorly to be vanquisht! When all is hush'd, I know he will return,—therefore I'll fix me here, till I become a furious Statue—but I'll reach his heart.

Sir Sig. Oh lamentivolo fato—what bloody Villains these Popish Italians are!

Enter Julio.

Oct. Hah—I hear one coming this way—hah—the door opens too, and he makes toward it—pray Heaven he be the right, for this I'm sure's the House.—Now, Luck, an't be thy will— [Follows Julio towards the door softly.

Jul. The Rogues are fled, but how secure I know not;— And I'll pursue my first design of Love, And if this Silvianetta will be kind—

Enter Laura from the House in a Night-gown.

Lau. Whist—who is't names Silvianetta?

Jul. A Lover, and her Slave— [She takes him by the hand.

Lau. Oh, is it you,—are you escap'd unhurt? Come to my Bosom—and be safe for ever—

Jul. 'Tis Love that calls, and now Revenge must stay, —This hour is thine, fond Boy; the next that is my own I'll give to Anger.—

Oct. Oh, ye pernicious Pair,—I'll quickly change the Scene of Love into a rougher and more unexpected Entertainment.

[_She leads_ Julio _in_.—Oct. _follows close, they shut the door upon 'em. Sir_ Sig. _thrusts out his head to hearken, hears no body, and advances.

Sir Sig. Sure the Devil reigns to night; wou'd I were shelter'd, and let him rain Fire and Brimstone: for pass the streets I dare not—this shou'd be the House—or hereabouts I'm sure 'tis.—Hah—what's this—a String—of a Bell I hope—I'll try to enter; and if I am mistaken, 'tis but crying Con licentia. [Rings, enter Philippa. Phil. Who's there?

Sir Sig. 'Tis I, 'tis I, let me in quickly.—

Phil. Who—the English Cavalier?

Sir Sig. The same—I am right—I see I was expected.

Phil. I'm glad you're come—give me your hand.—

Sir Sig. I am fortunate at last,—and therefore will say with the famous Poet.

No Happiness like that atchicv'd with Danger, —Which once overcome—I lie at Rack and Manger.

[Exeunt.



ACT IV.

SCENE I.

Enter Fillamour and Galliard, as in Silvianetta's Apartment.

Fil. How splendidly these common Women live! How rich is all we meet with in this Palace; And rather seems the Apartment of some Prince, Than a Receptacle for Lust and Shame.

Gal. You see, Harry, all the keeping Fools are not in our Dominions; but this grave, this wise People, are Mistress-ridden too.

Fil. I fear we have mistook the House, and the Youth that brought us in may have deceived us, on some other design; however whilst I've this—I cannot fear—[Draws.

Gal. A good caution, and I'll stand upon my guard with this; but see— here's one will put us out of doubt. [Pulls a Pistol out of his pocket.

Fil. Hah! the fair Inchantress.

[Enter Mar. richly and loosely drest.

Mar. What, on your guard, my lovely Cavalier? Lies there a danger In this Face and Eyes, that needs that rough resistance? —Hide, hide that mark of Anger from my sight, And if thou wou'dst be absolute Conquerer here, Put on soft Looks, with Eyes all languishing, Words tender, gentle Sighs, and kind Desires.

Gal. Death, with what unconcern he hears all this! Art thou possest?—Pox, why dost not answer her?

Mar. I hope he will not yield—[Aside. —He stands unmov'd— Surely I was mistaken in this Face, And I believe in Charms that have no power.

Gal. 'Sdeath, thou deservest not such a noble Creature,— I'll have 'em both my self.—[Aside.

Fil.—Yes, thou hast wondrous power, And I have felt it long. [Pausingly.

Mar. How!

Fil.—I've often seen that Face—but 'twas in Dreams: And sleeping lov'd extremely! And waking;—sigh'd to find it but a Dream: The lovely Phantom vanish'd with my Slumbers, But left a strong Idea on my heart Of what I find in perfect Beauty here, —But with this difference, she was virtuous too.

Mar. What silly she was that?

Fil. She whom I dream'd I lov'd.

Mar. You only dreamt that she was virtuous too; Virtue it self's a Dream of so slight force, The very fluttering of Love's Wings destroys it; Ambition, or the meaner hope of Interest, wakes it to nothing; In Men a feeble Beauty shakes the dull slumber off.—

Gal. Egad, she argues like an Angel, Harry.

Fil.—What haste thou'st made to damn thy self so young! Hast thou been long thus wicked? hast thou sinn'd past Repentance? Heaven may do much to save so fair a Criminal; Turn yet, and be forgiven.

Gal. What a Pox dost thou mean by all this Canting?

Mar. A very pretty Sermon, and from a Priest so gay, It cannot chuse but edify. Do Holy men of your Religion, Signior, wear all this Habit? Are they thus young and lovely? Sure if they are, Your Congregation's all compos'd of Ladies; The Laity must come abroad for Mistresses.

Fil. Oh, that this charming Woman were but honest!

Gal. 'Twere better thou wert damn'd; honest! Pox, thou dost come out with things so mal a propo—

Mar. Come leave this Mask of foolish Modesty, And let us haste where Love and Musick calls; Musick, that heightens Love, and makes the Soul Ready for soft Impressions.

Gal. So, she will do his business with a Vengeance.

Fil. Plague of this tempting Woman, she will ruin me: I find weak Virtue melt from round my Heart, To give her Tyrant Image a Possession: So the warm Sun thaws Rivers icy Tops. Till in the stream he sees his own bright Face.

Gal. Now he comes on apace,—how is't, my Friend? Thou stand'st as thou'dst forgot thy business here, —The Woman, Harry, the fair Curtezan; Canst thou withstand her Charms? I've business of my own, Prithee fall to—and talk of Love to her.

Fil. Oh, I cou'd talk Eternity away, In nothing else but Love;—cou'dst thou be honest?

Mar. Honest! was it for that you sent two thousand Crowns, Or did believe that trifling Sum sufficient To buy me to the slavery of Honesty?

Gal. Hold there, my brave Virago.

Fil. No, I wou'd sacrifice a nobler Fortune, To buy thy Virtue home.

Mar. What shou'd it idling there?

Fil. Why—make thee constant to some happy Man, That wou'd adore thee for't.

Mar. Unconscionable! constant at my years? —Oh, 'twere to cheat a thousand, Who between this and my dull Age of Constancy. Expect the distribution of my Beauty.

Gal. 'Tis a brave Wench— [Aside.

Fil. Yet charming as thou art, the time will come When all that Beauty, like declining Flowers, Will wither on the Stalk,—but with this difference, The next kind Spring brings Youth to Flowers again, But faded Beauty never more can bloom. —If Interest make thee wicked, I can supply thy Pride.—

Mar. Curse on your necessary Trash!—which I despise, But as 'tis useful to advance our Love.

Fil. Is Love thy business? who is there born so high, But Love and Beauty equals? And thou mayst chuse from all the wishing World. This Wealth together wou'd inrich one Man, Which dealt to all, wou'd scarce be Charity.

Mar. Together! 'tis a Mass wou'd ransom Kings: Was all this Beauty given for one poor petty Conquest? —I might have made a hundred Hearts my slaves, In this lost time of bringing one to Reason.— Farewel, thou dull Philosopher in Love; When Age has made me wise, I'll send for you again. [Offers to go, Gal. holds her.

Gal. By this good Light, a noble glorious Whore.

Fil. Oh, stay, I must not let such Beauty fall, —A Whore—consider yet the Charms of Reputation, The Ease, the Quiet, and Content of Innocence, The awful Reverence all good Men will pay thee, Who, as thou art, will gaze without respect, —And cry—what pity 'tis she is—a Whore—

Mar. O, you may give it what coarse name you please, But all this Youth and Beauty ne'er was given, Like Gold to Misers, to be kept from use. [Going out.

Fil. Lost, lost—past all Redemption.

Gal. Nay, Gad, thou shalt not lose her so—I'll fetch her back, and thou shalt ask her pardon. [Runs out after her.

Fil. By Heaven, it was all a Dream! an airy Dream! The visionary Pleasure disappears,—and I'm myself again, —I'll fly before the drousy Fit o'ertake me. [Going out, Enter Gal. and then Marcella.

Gal. Turn back—she yields, she yields to pardon thee. Gone! nay, hang me if ye part. [Runs after him, still his Pistol in his hand.

Mar. Gone! I have no leisure now for more dissembling. [Takes the Candle, and goes in.

Enter Petro, leading in Mr. Tickletext, as by dark.

Pet. Remain here, Signior, whilst I step and fetch a light.

Tick. Do so, do so, honest Barberacho.—Well, my escape even now from Sir Signal was miraculous, thanks to my Prudence and Prowess; had he discover'd me, my Dominion had ended, and my Authority been of none effect, certo.

[Philippa at the door puts in Sir Signal.

Phil. Now, Signior, you're out of danger, I'll fetch a Candle, and let my Lady know of your being here.

[Exit Phil. Sir Sig. advances a little.

Enter Petro with a light, goes between 'em, and starts.

Tick. Sir Signal!—

Sir Sig. My Governour!

Pet. The two Fools met! a pox of all ill luck! Now shall I lose my Credit with both my wise Patrons; my Knight I cou'd have put off with a small Harlot of my own, but my Levite having seen my Lady Cornelia, that is, La Silvianetta,—none but that Susanna wou'd satisfy his Eldership. But now they both sav'd me the labour of a farther invention to dispatch 'em.

Sir Sig. I perceive my Governour's as much confounded as my self;—I'll take advantage by the forelock, be very impudent, and put it upon him, faith—Ah, Governour, will you never leave your whoring? never be staid, sober and discreet, as I am?

Tick. So, so, undone, undone! just my Documents to him.— [Walks about, Sir Sig. follows.

Sir Sig. And must I neglect my precious studies, to follow you, in pure zeal and tender care of your Person? Will you never consider where you are? In a leud Papish Country, amongst the Romish Heathens! And for you, a Governour, a Tutor, a Director of unbridled Youth, a Gownman, a Politician; for you, I say, to be taken at this unrighteous time of the Night, in a flaunting Cavaliero Dress, an unlawful Weapon by your side, going the high way to Satan, to a Curtezan; and to a Romish Curtezan! Oh Abomination! Oh scandalum infinitum!

Tick. Paid in my own Coin.

Pet. So, I'll leave the Devil to rebuke Sin: and to my young Lady, for a little of her assistance in the management of this Affair. [Exit Pet.

Tick. I do confess, I grant ye I am in the house of a Curtezan, and that I came to visit a Curtezan, and do intend to visit each Night a several Curtezan, till I have finished my work—

Sir Sig. Every night one! Oh Glutton!

Tick. My great work of Convertion, upon the whole Nation, Generation, and Vocation of this wicked provoking sort of Womankind call'd Curtezans. I will turn 'em; I will turn 'em, for 'tis a shame that Man shou'd bow down to those that worship Idols. And now I think, Sir, I have sufficiently explain'd the business in hand,—as honest Barberacho is my witness;—And for you—to—scandalize—me—with so naughty an Interpretation—afflicteth me wonderfully.— [Pulls out his handkerchief, and weeps.

Sir Sig.—Alas, poor Mr. Tickletext, now as I hope to be sav'd, it grieves my heart to see thee weep; faith and troth now, I thought thou hadst some carnal Assignation:—but ne'er stir, I beg thy pardon, and think thee as innocent as my self, that I do—but see, the Lady's here— s'life, dry your Eyes, man.

[Enter Cornelia, Phil, and Pet.

Cor. I cou'd beat thee for being thus mistaken, and am resolv'd to flatter him into some Mischief, to be reveng'd on 'em for this disappointment; go you, and watch for my Cavalier the while.

Tick. Is she come? Nay, then turn me loose to her.

Cor. My Cavalier! [Addressing to Sir Sig. Tick. pulls him by, and speaks.

Tick.—Lady—

Sir Sig. You, Sir! why, who the Devil made you a Cavalier? most Potentissima Signiora, I am the man of Title, by name Sir Signal Buffoon, sole Son and Heir to Eight Thousand Pound a year.—

Tick. Oh, Sir, are you the Man she looks for?

Sir Sig. I, Sir? no, Sir: I'd have ye know, Sir, I scorn any Woman, be she never so fair, unless her design be honest and honourable.

Cor. The Man of all the World I've chosen out, from all the Wits and Beauties I have seen,—to have most finely beaten. [Aside.

Sir Sig. How! In love with me already,—she's damnable handsome too: now wou'd my Tutor were hang'd a little for an hour or two, out of the way. [Aside.

Cor. Why fly you not into my Arms, [She approaching, he shunning. These Arms that were design'd for soft Embraces?

Sir Sig. Ay, and if my Tutor were not here, the Devil take him that wou'd hinder 'em—and I think that's civil, egad.

Tick. Why, how now, Barberacho, what, am I cozen'd then, and is Sir Signal the Man in favour? [Aside to Petro.

Pet. Lord, Signior, that so wise a man as you cannot perceive her meaning,—for the Devil take me if I can. [Aside.—Why this is done to take off all suspicion from you—and lay it on him;—don't you conceive it, Signior?

Tick. Yes, honest Rogue,—Oh the witty Wag-tail,—I have a part to play too, that shall confirm it—young Gentlewoman.—

Cor. Ah, Belle ingrate, is't thus you recompense my suffering Love? to fly this Beauty so ador'd by all, that slight the ready Conquest of the World, to trust a Heart with you?—Ah—Traditor Cruella.

Sir Sig. Poor Heart, it goes to the very soul of me to be so coy and scornful to her, that it does; but a pox on't, her over-fondness will discover all.

Tick. Fly, fly, young Man, whilst yet thou hast a spark of Virtue shining in thee, fly the temptations of this young Hypocrite; the Love that she pretends with so much zeal and ardour, is indecent, unwarrantable and unlawful; first indecent, as she is Woman—for thou art Woman—and beautiful Woman—yes, very beautiful Woman; on whom Nature hath shew'd her height of Excellence in the out-work, but left thee unfinisht, imperfect and impure.

Cor. Heavens, what have we here?

Sir Sig. A Pox of my Sir Domine; now is he beside his Text, and will spoil all.

Tick. Secondly, Unwarrantable; by what Authority dost thou seduce with the Allurements of thine Eyes, and the Conjurements of thy Tongue, the Wastings of thy Hands, and the Tinklings of thy Feet, the young Men in the Villages?

Cor. Sirrah, how got this Madman in? seize him, and take him hence.

Sir Sig. Corpo de mi, my Governour tickles her notably, I'faith—but had he let the care of my Soul alone to night, and have let me taken care of my Body, 'twould have been more material at this time.

Tick. Thirdly, Unlawful—

Cor. Quite distracted! in pity take him hence, and lead him into Darkness, 'twill suit his Madness best.

Tick. How, distracted! take him hence.

Pet. This was lucky—I knew she wou'd come again—Take him hence—yes, into her Bed-chamber—pretty device to get you to her self, Signior.

Tick. Why, but is it?—Nay then I will facilitate my departure— therefore I say, Oh most beautiful and tempting Woman— [Beginning to preach again.

Cor. Away with him, give him clean straw and darkness, And chain him fast, for fear of further mischief.

Pet. She means for fear of losing ye.

Tick. Ah, Baggage! as fast as she will in those pretty Arms. [Going to lead him off.

Sir Sig. Hold, hold, man; mad, said ye!—ha, ha, ha—mad! why we have a thousand of these in England that go loose about the streets, and pass with us for as sober discreet religious persons, as a man shall wish to talk nonsense withal.

Pet. You are mistaken, Signior, I say he is mad, stark mad.

Sir Sig. Prithee, Barberacho, what dost thou mean?

Pet. To rid him hence, that she may be alone with you—'slife, Sir, you're madder than he—don't you conceive?—

Sir Sig. Ay, ay; nay, I confess, Illustrissima Signiora, my Governour has a Fit that takes him now and then, a kind of frensy,—a figary—a whimsy—a maggot, that bites always at naming of Popery: [Exit. Pet. with Tick.]—so—he's gone.—Bellissima Signiora,—you have most artificially remov'd him—and this extraordinary proof of your affection is a sign of some small kindness towards me; and though I was something coy and reserv'd before my Governour, Excellentissima Signiora, let me tell you, your Love is not cast away.

Cor. Oh, Sir, you bless too fast; but will you ever love me?

Sir Sig. Love thee! ay and lie with thee too, most magnanimous Signiora, and beget a whole Race of Roman Julius Caesars upon thee; nay, now we're alone, turn me loose to Impudence, i'faith. [Ruffles her; Enter Philippa in haste, shutting the door after her.

Phil. Oh, Madam, here's the young mad English Cavalier got into the House, and will not be deny'd seeing you.

Cor. This was lucky.

Sir Sig. How, the mad English Cavalier! if this shou'd be our young Count Galliard now—I were in a sweet taking—Oh, I know by my fears 'tis he;—Oh, prithee what kind of a manner of Man is he?

Phil. A handsom—resolute—brave—bold—

Sir Sig. Oh, enough, enough—Madam, I'll take my leave—I see you are something busy at present,—an I'll—

Cor. Not for the World:—Philippa, bring in the Cavalier—that you may see there's none here fears him, Signior.

Sir Sig. Oh, hold, hold—Madam, you are mistaken in that point; for, to tell you the truth, I do fear—having—a certain—Aversion or Antipathy— to—Madam—a Gentleman—Why, Madam, they're the very Monsters of the Nation, they devour every Day a Virgin.—

Cor. Good Heavens! and is he such a Fury?

Sir Sig. Oh, and the veriest Beelzebub;—besides, Madam, he vow'd my Death, if ever he catcht me near this House; and he ever keeps his word in cases of this Nature—Oh, that's he, [Knocking at the Door.] I know it by a certain trembling Instinct about me!—Oh, what shall I do—

Cor. Why—I know not,—can you leap a high Window?

Sir Sig. He knocks again,—I protest I am the worst Vaulter in Christendom.—Have you no moderate danger—between the two extremes of the Window or the mad Count? no Closet?—Fear has dwindled me to the scantling of a Mousehole.

Cor. Let me see,—I have no leisure to pursue my Revenge farther, and will rest satisfy'd with this,—for this time. [Aside.]—Give me the Candle,—and whilst Philippa is conducting the Cavalier to the Alcove by dark, you may have an Opportunity to slip out—perhaps there may be danger in his being seen—[Aside.] Farewel, Fool—

[Ex. Cornelia with the Candle, Phil. goes to the Door, lets in Gal. takes him by the hand.

Gal. Pox on't, my Knight's bound for Viterbo, and there's no persuading him into safe Harbour again.—He has given me but two hours to dispatch matters here,—and then I'm to imbark with him upon this new Discovery of honourable Love, as he call it, whose Adventurers are Fools, and the returning Cargo, that dead Commodity called a Wife! a Voyage very suitable to my Humour.—Who's there?—

Phil. A Slave of Silvianetta, Sir; give me your hand.

[Ex. over the stage, Sir Sig. goes out softly.

SCENE II. Changes to a Bed-chamber Alcove.

Petro leading in Tickletext.

Pet. Now, Signior, you're safe and happy in the Bedchamber of your Mistress—who will be here immediately, I'm sure; I'll fetch a Light, and put you to Bed in the mean time—

Tick. Not before Supper I hope, honest Barberacho.

Pet. Oh, Signior, that you shall do lying, after the manner of the antient Romans.

Tick. Certo, and that was a marvellous good lazy Custom.

[Ex. Pet.

Enter Philippa with Galliard by dark.

Phil. My Lady will be with you instantly—[Goes out.

Tick. Hah, sure I heard some body come softly in at the door: I hope 'tis the young Gentlewoman. [He advances forward.

Gal. Silence and Night, Love and dear Opportunity. [In a soft Tone. Join all your aids to make my Silvia kind; For I am fill'd with the expecting Bliss, [Tick, thrusts his Head out to listen. And much Delay or Disappointment kills me.

Tick. Disappointment kills me,—and me too, certo—'tis she— [Gropes about.

Gal. Oh, haste, my Fair, haste to my longing Arms, Where are you, dear and loveliest of your Sex?

Tick. That's I, that's I, my Alma! mea Core, mea Vita! [Groping and speaking low.

Gal. Hah—art thou come, my Life! my Soul! my Joy! [Goes to embrace Tick, they meet and kiss. 'Sdeath, what's this, a bearded Mistress! Lights, Lights there, quickly, Lights! nay, curse me if thou scap'st me.

[Tick. struggles to get away, he holds him by the Crevat and Perriwig; Enter Petro with a Candle.

Gal. Barberacho—confound him, 'tis the Fool whom I found this Evening about the House, hovering to roost him here!—Ha—what the Devil have I caught—a Tartar? escap'd again! the Devil's his Confederate.—

[Pet. puts out the Candle, comes to Tick, unties his Crevat behind, and he slips his head out of the Perriwig, and gets away, leaving both in Gal's hands.

Pet. Give me your Hand, I'll lead you a back-pair of stairs through the Garden.

Tick. Oh, any way to save my Reputation—oh—

Gal. Let me but once more grasp thee, and thou shalt find more safety in the Devil's Clutches: none but my Mistress serve ye! [Gropes out after him.

[Pet. with Tick, running over the Stage, Gal. after 'em, with the Crevat and Perriwig in one Hand, his Pistol in t'other.

Enter Philippa with a Light.

Phil. Mercy upon us! what's the matter? what Noise is this—hah, a Pistol! what can this mean?

[A Pistol goes off.

Enter Sir Signal running.

Sir Sig. Oh, save me, gentle Devil, save me, the stairs are fortify'd with Cannons and double Culverins; I'm pursu'd by a whole Regiment of arm'd Men! here's Gold, Gold in abundance, save me.—

Phil. What Cannons? what armed Men?

Sir Sig. Finding my self pursu'd as I was groping my way through the Hall, and not being able to find the Door, I made towards the stairs again, at the foot of which I was saluted with a great Gun—a pox of the Courtesy.

Gal. [Without.] Where are ye, Knight, Buffoon, Dog of Egypt?

Sir Sig. Thunder and Lightning! 'tis Gallaird's Voice.

Phil. Here, step behind this Hanging—there's a Chimney which may shelter ye till the Storm be over,—if you be not smother'd before. [Puts him behind the Arras.

Enter Gal. as before, and Corn, at the other door.

Cor. Heavens! What rude noise is this?

Gal. Where have you hid this Fool, this lucky Fool? He whom blind Chance, and more ill-judging Woman, Has rais'd to that Degree of Happiness, That witty Men must sigh and toil in vain for?

Cor. What Fool, what Happiness?

Gal. Cease, cunning false one, to excuse thy self, See here the Trophies of your shameful Choice, And of my Ruin, cruel—fair Deceiver!

Cor. Deceiver, Sir, of whom? in what despairing minute did I swear to be a constant Mistress? to what dull whining Lover did I vow, and had the heart to break it?

Gal. Or if thou hadst, I know of no such Dog as wou'd believe thee: No, thou art false to thy own Charms, and hast betray'd them To the possession of the vilest Wretch That ever Fortune curst with Happiness; False to thy Joys, false to thy Wit and Youth: All which thou'st damn'd with so much careful Industry To an eternal Fool, That all the Arts of Love can ne'er redeem thee.

Sir Sig. Meaning me, meaning me. [Peeping out of the Chimney, his Face blackt.

Cor. A Fool! what Indiscretion have you seen in me, shou'd make ye think I would choose a Witty man for a Lover, who perhaps loves out his Month in pure good Husbandry, and in that time does more Mischief than a hundred Fools. You conquer without Resistance, you treat without Pity, and triumph without Mercy: and when you are gone, the World crys—she had not Wit enough to keep him, when indeed you are not Fool enough to be kept! Thus we forfeit both our Liberties and Discretion with you villanous witty Men: for Wisdom is but good Success in things, and those that fail are Fools.

Gal. Most gloriously disputed! You're grown a Machivellian in your Art.

Cor. Oh, necessary Maxims only, and the first Politicks we learn from Observation—I have known a Curtezan grown infamous, despis'd, decay'd, and ruin'd, in the Possession of you witty Men, who when she had the luck to break her Chains, and cast her Net for Fools, has liv'd in state, finer than Brides upon their Wedding-day, and more profuse than the young amorous Coxcomb that set her up an Idol.

Sir Sig. Well argued of my side, I see the Baggage loves me! [Peeping out with a Face more smutted.

Gal. And hast thou? Oh, but prithee jilt me on, And say thou hast not destin'd all thy Charms To such a wicked Use. Is that dear Face and Mouth for Slaves to kiss? Shall those bright Eyes be gaz'd upon, and serve But to reflect the Images of Fools?

Sir Sig. That's I still. [Peeping more black.

Gal. Shall that soft tender Bosom be approacht By one who wants a Soul, to breathe in languishment At every Kiss that presses it?

Sir Sig. Soul! what a pox care I for Soul—as long as my Person is so amiable?

Gal. No, renounce that dull Discretion that undoes thee, Cunning is cheaply to be wise; leave it to those that have No other Powers to gain a Conquest by, It is below thy Charms. —Come swear, and be foresworn most damnably, Thou hast not yielded yet; say 'twas intended only, And though thou ly'st, by Heaven, I must believe thee; —Say,—hast thou—given him—all?

Cor. I've done as bad, we have discours'd th' Affair, And 'tis concluded on.—

Gal. As bad! by Heaven, much worse! discours'd with him! Wert thou so wretched, so depriv'd of Sense, To hold Discourse with such an Animal? Damn it; the Sin is ne'er to be forgiven. —Hadst thou been wanton to that leud degree, By dark he might have been conducted to thee; Where silently he might have serv'd thy purpose, And thou hadst had some poor excuse for that: But bartering words with Fools admits of none.

Cor. I grant ye,—had I talk'd sense to him, which had been enough to have lost him for ever.

Sir Sig. Poor Devil, how fearful 'tis of losing me! [Aside.

Gal. That's some Atonement for thy other Sins,— Come, break thy Word, and wash it quite away.

Sir Sig. That cogging won't do, my good Friend, that won't do.

Gal. Thou shall be just and perjur'd, and pay my Heart the debt of Love you owe it.

Cor. And wou'd you have the Heart—to make a Whore of me?

Gal. With all my Soul, and the Devil's in't if I can give thee a greater proof of my Passion.

Cor. I rather fear you wou'd debauch me into that dull slave call'd a Wife.

Gal. A Wife! have I no Conscience, no Honour in me? Prithee believe I wou'd not be so wicked— No,—my Desires are generous, and noble, To set thee up, that glorious insolent thing, That makes Mankind such Slaves, almighty Curtezan! —Come, to thy private Chamber let us haste, The sacred Temple of the God of Love; And consecrate thy Power. [Offers to bear her off.

Cor. Stay, do you take me then for what I seem?

Gal. I am sure I do, and wou'd not be mistaken for a Kingdom: But if thou art not, I can soon mend that fault, And make thee so.—Come, I'm impatient to begin the Experiment. [Offers again to carry her off.

Cor. Nay, then I am in earnest,—hold, mistaken Stranger—I am of noble Birth; and shou'd I in one hapless loving Minute destroy the Honour of my House, ruin my Youth and Beauty, and all that virtuous Education my hoping Parents gave me?

Gal. Pretty dissembled Pride and Innocence! And wounds no less than smiles!—Come, let us in,—where I will give thee leave to frown and jilt; such pretty Frauds advance the Appetite. [Offers again.

Cor. By all that's good, I am a Maid of Quality, Blest with a Fortune equal to my Birth.

Gal. I do not credit thee; or if I did, For once I wou'd dispense with Quality, And to express my Love, take thee with all these Faults.

Cor. And being so, can you expect I'll yield?

Gal. The sooner for that reason, if thou'rt wise; The Quality will take away the Scandal. Do not torment me longer— [Offers to lead her again.

Cor. Stay and be undeceiv'd,—I do conjure ye.—

Gal. Art thou no Curtezan?

Cor. Not on my life, nor do intend to be.

Gal. No Prostitute? nor dost intend to be?

Cor. By all that's good, I only feign'd to be so.

Gal. No Curtezan! hast thou deceiv'd me then? Tell me, thou wicked honest cozening Beauty, Why didst thou draw me in, with such a fair Pretence, Why such a tempting Preface to invite, And the whole Piece so useless and unedifying? —Heavens! not a Curtezan! Why from thy Window didst thou take my Vows, And make such kind Returns? Oh, damn your Quality: What honest Whore but wou'd have scorn'd thy Cunning?

Cor. I make ye kind Returns?

Gal. Persuade me out of that too; 'twill be like ye.

Cor. By all my Wishes I never held Discourse with you—but this Evening, since I first saw your Face.

Gal. Oh, the Impudence of Honesty and Quality in Woman! A plague upon 'em both, they have undone me! Bear witness, oh thou gentle Queen of Night, Goddess of Shades, ador'd by Lovers most; How oft under thy Covert she has damn'd her self, With feigned Love to me! [In Passion.

Cor. Heavens! this is Impudence: that Power I call to witness too, how damnably thou injur'st me. [Angry.

Gal. You never from your Window talk'd of Love to me?

Cor. Never.

Gal. So, nor you're no Curtezan?

Cor. No, by my Life.

Gal. So, nor do intend to be, by all that's good?

Cor. By all that's good, never.

Gal. So, and you are real honest, and of Quality?

Cor. Or may I still be wretched.

Gal. So, then farewel Honesty and Quality—'Sdeath, what a Night, what Hopes, and what a Mistress, have I all lost for Honesty and Quality! [Offers to go.

Cor. Stay.—

Gal. I will be rack'd first, let go thy hold! [In fury. —Unless thou wou'dst repent.— [In a soft tone.

Cor. I cannot of my fixt Resolves for Virtue! —But if you could but—love me—honourably— For I assum'd this Habit and this Dress—

Gal. To cheat me of my Heart the readiest way: And now, like gaming Rooks, unwilling to give o'er till you have hook'd in my last stake, my Body too, you cozen me with Honesty.—Oh, damn the Dice—I'll have no more on't, I, the Game's too deep for me, unless you play'd upon the square, or I could cheat like you.— Farewel, Quality— [Goes out.

Cor. He's gone; Philippa, run and fetch him back; I have but this short Night allow'd for Liberty; Perhaps to morrow I may be a Slave. [Ex. Phil. —Now o' my Conscience there never came good of this troublesome Virtue— hang't, I was too serious; but a Devil on't, he looks so charmingly—and was so very pressing, I durst trust my gay Humour and good Nature no farther. [She walks about, Sir Signal peeps and then comes out.

Sir Sig. He's gone!—so, ha, ha, ha. As I hope to breathe, Madam, you have nost neatly dispatcht him; poor fool—to compare his Wit and his Person to mine.—

Cor. Hah, the Coxcomb here still.—

Sir Sig. Well, this Countenance of mine never fail'd me yet.

Cor. Ah—

[Looking about on him, sees his face black, squeaks and runs away.

Sir Sig. Ah, whe, what the Deavilo's that for? —Whe, 'tis I, 'tis I, most Serenissima Signiora!

[Gal. returns and Philippa.

Gal. What noise is that, or is't some new design To fetch me back again?

Sir Sig. How! Galliard return'd!

Gal. Hah! what art thou? a Mortal or a Devil?

Sir Sig. How, not know me? now might I pass upon him most daintily for a Devil, but that I have been beaten out of one Devilship already, and dare venture no more Conjurationing.

Gal. Dog, what art thou—not speak! Nay, then I'll inform my self, and try if you be flesh and blood. [Kicks him, he avoids.

Sir Sig. No matter for all this—'tis better to be kickt than discovered, for then I shall be kill'd: and I can sacrifice a Limb or two to my Reputation at any time.

Gal. Death, 'tis the Fool, the Fool for whom I am abus'd and jilted? 'tis some revenge to disappoint her Cunning, and drive the Slave before me—Dog! were you her last reserve? [Kicks him, he keeps in his cry.

Sir Sig. Still I say Mum.

Gal. The Ass will still appear through all disguises, Nor can the Devil's shape secure the Fool— [Kicks him, he runs out, as Cor. enters and holds Gal.

Cor. Hold, Tyrant—

Gal. Oh Women, Women, fonder in your Appetites Than Beasts, and more unnatural! For they but couple with their Kind, but you Promiscuously shuffle your Brutes together, The Fop of business with the lazy Gown-men —the learned Ass with the illiterate Wit—the empty Coxcomb with the Politician, as dull and insignificant as he; from the gay Fool made more a Beast by Fortune to all the loath'd infirmities of Age. Farewel—I scorn to croud with the dull Herd, or graze upon the Common where they fatten. [Goes out.

Phil. I know he loves, by this concern I know it, And will not let him part dissatisfied. [Goes out.

Cor. By all that's good, I love him more each moment, and know he's destin'd to be mine.—

[Enter Marcella.

—What hopes, Marcella? what is't we next shall do?

Mar. Fly to our last reserve; come, let's haste and dress in that disguise we took our flight from Viterbo in,—and something I resolve.

Cor. My soul informs me what—I ha't! a Project worthy of us both— which whilst we dress I'll tell thee,—and by which,

My dear Marcella, we will stand or fall: 'Tis our last Stake we set; and have at all.

[Exeunt.



ACT V.

SCENE I. The Corso.

Enter Petro, Tickletext, from the Garden.

Tick. Haste, honest Barberacho, before the Day discover us to the wicked World, and that more wicked Galliard.

Pet. Well, Signior, of a bad turn it was a good one, that he took you for Sir Signal! the Scandal lies at his door now Sir,—so the Ladder's fast, you may now mount and away.—

Tick. Very well, go your ways, and commend me, honest Barberacho, to the young Gentlewoman, and let her know, as soon as I may be certain to run no hazard in my Reputation, I'll visit her again.

Pet. I'll warrant ye, Signior, for the future.

Tick. So, now get you gone lest we be discover'd.

Pet. Farewel, Signior, a bon viage. [Ex. Pet. Tick, descends.

Tick. 'Tis marvellous dark, and I have lost my Lanthorn in the fray! [Groping.] —hah—whereabouts am I—hum—what have we here!—ah, help, help, help! [Stumbles at the Well, gets hold of the Rope, and slides down in the Bucket.] I shall be drown'd, Fire, Fire, Fire! for I have Water enough! Oh, for some House,—some Street; nay, wou'd Rome it-self were a second time in flames, that my Deliverance might be wrought by the necessity for Water: but no human Help is nigh—oh!

Enter Sir Sig. as before.

Sir Sig. Did ever any Knight-Adventurer run through so many Disasters in one night! my worshipful Carcase has been cudgel'd most plentifully, first bang'd for a Coward, which by the way was none of my Fault, I cannot help Nature: then claw'd away for a Diavillo, there I was the Fool; but who can help that too? frighted with Gal's coming into an Ague; then chimney'd into a Fever, where I had a fine Regale of Soot, a Perfume which nothing but my Cackamarda Orangate cou'd exceell; and which I find by [snuffs] my smelling has defac'd Nature's Image, and a second time made me be suspected for a Devil.—let me see—[Opens his Lanthorn, and looks on his Hands.] 'tis so—I am in a cleanly Pickle: if my Face be of the same Hue, I am fit to scare away old Beelzebub himself, i'faith: [Wipes his Face.]—ay, 'tis so, like to like, quoth the Devil to the Collier: well I'll home, scrub my self clean if possible, get me to Bed, devise a handsom Lye to excuse my long stay to my Governour, and all's well, and the Man has his Mare again. [Shuts his Lanthorn and gropes away, runs against the Well.—Quequesto (feels gently.)] Make me thankful 'tis substantial Wood, by your leave— [Opens his Lanthorn.] How! a Well! sent by Providence that I may wash my self, lest People smoke me by the scent, and beat me a-new for stinking: [Sets down his Lanthorn, pulls of his Masking-Coat, and goes to draw Water.] 'Tis a damnable heavy Bucket! now do I fancy I shall look, when I am washing my self, like the sign of the Labour-in-vain.

Tick. So, my cry is gone forth, and I am delivered by Miracle from this Dungeon of Death and Darkness, this cold Element of Destruction—

Sir Sig. Hah—sure I heard a dismal hollow Voice.

[Tick. appears in the Bucket above the Well.

Tick. What, art thou come in Charity?

Sir Sig. Ah, le Diavilo, le Diavilo, le Diavilo. [Lets go the Bucket, and is running frighted away.

Enter Fillamour and Page, he returns.

—How, a Man! was ever wretched Wight so miserable, the Devil at one hand, and a Roman Night-walker at the other; which danger shall I chuse? [Gets to the door of the House.

Tick. So, I am got up at last—thanks to my Knight, for I am sure 'twas he! hah, he's here—I'll hear his Business. [Goes near to Fillamour.

Fil. Confound this Woman, this bewitching Woman: I cannot shake her from my sullen Heart; Spite of my Soul I linger hereabouts, and cannot to Viterbo.

Tick. Very good; a dainty Rascal this!

Enter Galliard with a Lanthorn, as from Silvia's House, held by Philippa.

Fil.—Hah, who's this coming from her House? Perhaps 'tis Galliard.

Gal. No Argument shall fetch me back, by Heaven.

Fil. 'Tis the mad Rogue.

Tick. Oh Lord, 'tis Galliard, and angry too; now cou'd I but get off, and leave Sir Signal to be beaten, 'twere a rare project—but 'tis impossible without discovery.

Phil. But will you hear her, Signior?

Gal. That is, will I lose more time about her? Plague on't, I have thrown away already such Songs and Sonnets, such Madrigals and Posies, such Night-walks, Sighs, and direful Lovers looks, as wou'd have mollify'd any Woman of Conscience and Religion; and now to be popt i'th' mouth with Quality! Well, if ever you catch me lying with any but honest well-meaning Damsels hereafter, hang me:—farewel, old Secret, farewel. [Ex. Philippa. —Now am I asham'd of being cozen'd so damnably, Fillamour, that virtuous Rascal, will so laugh at me; s'heart, cou'd I but have debaucht him, we had been on equal terms.—but I must help my self with lying, and swear I have—a—

Fil. You shall not need, I'll keep your Counsel, Sir.

Gal. Hah—estes vous la?—

Tick. How, Fillamour all this while! some Comfort yet, I am not the only Professor that dissembles: but how to get away—

Gal. Oh Harry, the most damnably defeated! [A Noise of Swords.

Fil. Hold! what Noise is that? two Men coming this way as from the house of the Curtezans.

Enter Julio backwards, fighting Octavio and Bravoes.

Gal. Hah, on retreating,—S'death, I've no Sword!

Fil. Here's one, I'll take my Page's. [Takes the Boy's Sword.

Gal. Now am I mad for mischief; here, hold my Lanthorn, Boy.

[They fight on Julio's side, and fight Octavio out at t'other side: Enter Laura and Sabina at the Fore-door, which is the same where Sir Signal stands: Tick. groping up that way, finds Sir Sig. just entring in; Laura and Sab. pass over the Stage.

Sir Sig. Hah, a door open! I care not who it belongs to, 'tis better dying within Doors like a Man, than in the Street like a Dog. [Going in, Tick. in great fear comes up and pulls him.

Tick. Signior, gentle Signior, whoe'er you are that owns this Mansion, I beseech you to give Protection to a wretched Man half dead with Fear and Injury.

Sir Sig. Nay, I defy the Devil to be more dead with Fear than I— Signior, you may enter, perhaps 'tis some body that will make an Excuse for us both,—but hark, they return. [Both go in, just after Lau. and Sab. and Silvio enter.

Lau. He's gone! he's gone! perhaps for ever gone.— Tell me, thou silly Manager of Love, How got this Ruffian in? how was it possible Without thy Knowledge he cou'd get Admittance?

Sab. Now as I hope to live and learn, I know not, Madam, unless he follow'd you when you let in the Cavalier, which being by dark he easily conceal'd himself; no doubt some Lover of Silvianetta's, who mistaking you for her, took him too for a Rival.

Lau. 'Tis likely, and my Fortune is to blame, my cursed Fortune, Who like Misers deals her scanty Bounties with so slow a hand, That or we die before the Blessing falls, Or have it snatcht e'er we can call it ours. [Raving.] To have him in my House, to have him kind, Kind as young Lovers when they meet by stealth; As fond as Age to Beauty, and as soft As Love and Wit cou'd make impatient Youth, Preventing even my Wishes and Desires, —Oh Gods! and then, even then to be defeated, Then from my o'erjoy'd Arms to have him snatcht; Then when our Vows had made our Freedom lawful; What Maid cou'd suffer a Surprize so cruel? —The Day begins to break,—go search the Streets, And bring me news he's safe, or I am lost.

Enter Gal. Fil. and Jul.

Fil. Galliard, where art thou?

Gal. Here safe, and by thy side.—

Lau. 'Tis he!

Jul. Whoe'er he were, the Rogue fought like a Fury, and but for your timely Aid I'd been in some Danger.

Fil. But, Galliard, thou wert telling me thy Adventure with Silvianetta; there may be comfort in't.

Lau. So, now I shall hear with what concern he speaks of me.— [Aside.

Gal. Oh, damn her, damn her!

Lau. Hah!

Gal. The veriest Jilt that ever learnt the Art.

Lau. Heavens!

Gal. Death, the Whore took me for some amorous English elder Brother, and was for Matrimony, in the Devil's name; thought me a loving Fool, that ne'er had seen so glorious a sight before, and wou'd at any rate enjoy.

Lau. Oh Heaven! I'm amaz'd, how much he differs from the thing he was but a few Minutes since. [Aside.

Gal. And to advance her Price, set up for Quality; nay, swore she was a Maid, and that she did but act the Curtezan.

Lau. Which then he seem'd to give a credit to.—O, the forsworn Dissembler!

Gal. But when I came to the matter then in debate, she was for honourable Love forsooth, and wou'd not yield, no marry wou'd she, not under a Licence from the Parson of the Parish.

Jul. Who was it, prithee? 'twere a good Deed to be so reveng'd on her.

Gal. Pox on her; no, I'm sure she's a damn'd Gipsy, for at the same time she had her Lovers in reserve, lay hid her Bed-chamber.

Lau. 'Twas that he took unkindly, And makes me guilty of that rude Address.

Fil. Another Lover had she?

Gal. Yes, our Coxcomb Knight Buffoon, laid by for a relishing Bit, in case I prov'd not season'd to her Mind.

Lau. Hah, he knew him then.

Gal. But damn her, she passes with the Night, the Day will bring new Objects.

Fil. Oh, do not doubt it, Frank.

Lau. False and Inconstant! Oh, I shall rave, Silvio— [Aside to Sil.

Enter Cornelia in Man's Clothes with a Letter.

Cor. Here be the Cavaliers: give me, kind Heaven, but hold of him; and if I keep him not, I here renounce my Charms of Wit and Beauty—Signiors, is there a Cavalier amongst ye, call'd Fillamour?

Fil. I own that Name; what wou'd you, Sir?

Cor. Only deliver this, Signior.

[Fil. goes aside, opens his Lanthorn, and reads, Jul. and Gal. talk aside.

Fil. [Reads.] I'll only tell you I am Brother to that Marcella whom you have injured, to oblige you to meet me an Hour hence, in the Piazo Despagnia: I need not say with your Sword in your hand, since you will there meet Julio Sebastiano Morosini! —Hah! her Brother sure return'd from Travel. [Aside.

—Signior,—I will not fail to answer it as he desires. [To Cornelia. I'll take this Opportunity to steal off undiscover'd. [Aside going out.

Cor. So, I've done my Sister's Business; now for my own.

Gal. But, my good Friend, pray what Adventure have you been on to night.

Jul. Faith, Sir, 'twas like to have prov'd a pleasant one, I came just now from Silvianetta, the fair young Curtezan.

Cor. Hah! what said the Man—came from me! [Aside.

Gal. How, Sir, you with Silvianetta! when?

Jul. Now, all the dear live-long Night.

Cor. A Pox take him, who can this be? [Aside.

Gal. This night! this night! that is not yet departed.

Jul. This very happy Night,—I told you I saw a lovely Woman at St. Peter's Church.

Gal. You did so.

Jul. I told you too I follow'd her home, but you'd learn neither her Name nor Quality; but my Page getting into the acquaintance of one of hers, brought me News of both; her Name Silvianetta, her Quality a Curtezan.

Cor. I at Church yesterday! now hang me if I had any such devout Thoughts about me: why, what a damn'd scandalous Rascal's this?

Jul. Fill'd with hopes of Success, at night I made her a Visit, and under her Window had a skirmish with some Rival, who was then serenading her.

Gal. Was't he that fought us then.—[Aside.— But it seems you were not mistaken in the House— On with your Story pray—Death, I grow jealous now— [Aside.] You came at Night you said?

Jul. Yes, and was receiv'd at the door by the kind Silvianetta, who softly whisper'd me, come to my Bosom, and be safe for ever! and doubtless took me for some happier Man.

Lau. Confusion on him, 'twas my very Language! [Aside raving.

Jul. Then led me by dark into her Chamber.

Cor. Oh, this damn'd lying Rascal! I do this? [Aside.

Jul. But oh, the things, the dear obliging things, the kind, the fair young Charmer said and did.

Gal. To thee!

Jul. To me.

Gal. Did Silvianetta do this, Silvianetta the Curtezan?

Jul. That passes, Sir, for such, but is indeed of Quality.

Cor. This Stranger is the Devil, how shou'd he know that Secret else?

Jul. She told me too 'twas for my sake alone, whom from the first Minute she saw she lov'd, she had assum'd that Name and that Disguise, the sooner to invite me.

Lau. 'Tis plain, the things I utter'd!—Oh, my Heart!

Gal. Curse on the publick Jilt, the very Flattery she wou'd have past on me.

Cor. Pox take him, I must draw on him, I cannot hold. [Aside.

Gal. Was ever such a Whore?

Lau. Oh, that I knew this Man, whom by mistake I lavisht all the Secrets of my Soul to! [Aside.

Jul. I prest for something more than dear Expressions, And found her yield apace; But sighing, told me of a fatal Contract, She was oblig'd to make to one she never saw; And yet if I wou'd vow to marry her, when she cou'd prove To merit it, she wou'd deny me nothing.

Lau. 'Twas I, by Heaven, that heedless Fool was I.

Jul. Which I with Lover's' eager Joy perform'd, And on my Knees utter'd the hasty Words, Which she repeated o'er, and gave me back.

Gal. So, he has swallow'd with a vengeance the very Bait she had prepar'd for me, or any body that wou'd bite. [Aside.

Jul. But e'er I cou'd receive the dear Reward of all my Vows, I was drawn upon by a Man that lay hid in her Chamber; Whether by chance or design I know not; who fought me out, And was the same you found me engag'd with.

Cor. A pleasant Rascal this, as e'er the Devil taught his Lesson to.

Gal. So, my Comfort is, she has jilted him too most damnably.

Cor. Slife, I have anger enough to make me valiant; why shou'd I not make use on't, and beat this lying Villain whilst the Fit holds?

Gal. And you design to keep these Vows, though you're contracted to another Woman?

Jul. I neither thought of breaking those, or keeping these; My Soul was all employ'd another way.

Lau. It shall be so, Silvio,—I've thought upon a way that must redeem all:—hark and observe me. [Takes Sil. and whispers to him.

Jul. But I'm impatient to pursue my Adventure, which I must endeavour to do, before the Light discover the Mistake.—Farewel, Sir. [Ex. Julio.

Gal. Go and be ruin'd quite, she has the Knack of doing it.

Sil. I'll warrant ye, Madam, for my Part. [Ex. Laura and Sabina.

Gal. I have a damn'd hankering after this Woman: why cou'd I not have put the cheat on her, as Julio has? I stand as little on my Word as he: a good round Oath or two had done the Business.—But a pox on't, I lov'd too well to be so wise.

[Silvio comes up to him.

Sil. Con licentia, Signior; is your Name Galliard?

Gal. I am the Man, sweet Heart,—let me behold thee—hah—Sans Coeur's Page!

Sil. A duce of his Lanthorn, what shall I say now?—Softly, Signior, I am that Page whose chiefest Business is to attend my Lord's Mistress, Sir.

Cor. His Mistress! whose Mistress, what Mistress? S'life, how that little Word has nettled me! [Aside, listening close.

Gal. Upon my Life, the Woman that he boasted of— [Aside, hugging of himself.] —A fair young amorous—noble—Wanton—a—And she wou'd speak with me, my lovely Boy?

Sil. You have prevented the Commands I had; but should my Lord know of it—

Gal. Thou wert undone, I understand thee— And will be secret as a Confessor, As lonely Shades, or everlasting Night. Come, lead the way.

Cor. Where I will follow thee, though to the Bed of her thou'rt going to, and even prevent thy very Business there. [Aside.]

[Exeunt.

SCENE II. A Chamber.

Enter Laura, as before, in a Night-Gown.

Lau. Now for a Power that never yet was known To charm this Stranger quickly into Love. Assist my Eyes, thou God of kind Desires; Inspire my Language with a moving Force, That may at once gain and secure the Victory.

Enter Silvio.

Sil. Madam, your Lover's here: your time's but short; consider too, Count Julio may arrive.

Lau. Let him arrive; having secur'd my self of what I love, I'll leave him to complain his unknown Loss To careless Winds as pitiless as I—Silvio, see the Rooms Be fill'd with Lights, whilst I prepare my self to entertain him. Darkness shall ne'er deceive me more—

[Enter to Sil. Gal. gazing about him, Cor. peeping at the Door.

Gal. All's wondrous rich,—gay as the Court of Love, But still and silent as the Shades of Death; —Hah—Musick! and excellent! [Soft Musick whilst they speak. Pox on't—but where's the Woman?—I need no preparation.—

Cor. No, you are always provided for such Encounters, and can fall to sans Ceremony,—but I may spoil your Stomach. [A Song tuning.

Gal. A Voice too! by Heaven, and 'tis a sweet one: Grant she be young, and I'll excuse the rest, Yet vie for Pleasure with the happiest Roman.

[The Song as by Laura, after which soft Musick till she enters.

The SONG by a Person of Quality.

_Farewel the World and mortal Cares, The ravished Strephon cry'd, As full of Joy and tender Tears He lay by Phillis' side: Let others toil for Wealth and Fame, Whilst not one Thought of mine At any other Bliss shall aim, But those dear Arms, but those dear Arms of thine.

Still let me gaze in thy bright Eyes, And hear thy charming Tongue; I nothing ask t'increase my Joys, But thus to feel 'em long. In close Embraces let us lie, And spend our Lives to come; Then let us both together die, And be each other's, be each other's Tomb_.

—Death, I'm fir'd already with her Voice—

Cor. So, I am like to thrive.—

Enter Julio.

Jul. What mean these Lights in every Room, as if to make The day without the Sun, and quite destroy my Hopes!— Hah, Galliard here!

Cor. A Man! grant it some Lover, or some Husband, Heaven, Or any thing that will but spoil the Sport. The Lady! Oh, blast her, how fair she is!

Enter Laura with her Lute, drest in a careless rich Dress, followed by Sabina, to whom she gives her Lute, and Silvio.

Jul. Hah! 'tis the same Woman. [She sees Julio and starts.

Lau. A Stranger here! What Art can help me now? [She pauses.

Gal. By all my Joys, a lovely Woman 'tis.

Lau. Help me, Deceit, Dissembling, all that's Woman— [She starts and gazes on Gal. pulling Silvio.

Cor. Sure I shou'd know that Face.—

Lau. Ah, look, my Silvio, is't not he?—it is! That Smile, that Air, that Mien, that Bow is his: 'Tis he, by all my Hopes, by all my Wishes.

Gal. He! yes, yes, I am a He, I thank my Stars, And never blest 'em half so much for being so, As for the dear Variety of Woman.

Cor. Curse on her Charms, she'll make him love in earnest.

Lau. It is my Brother; and Report was false. [Going towards him.

Gal. How, her Brother! Gad, I'm sorry we are so near akin, with all my Soul; for I'm damnably pleas'd with her.

Lau. Ah, why do you shun my Arms? or are ye Air? And not to be enclos'd in human Twines— Perhaps you are the Ghost of that dead Lord, That comes to whisper Vengeance to my Soul.

Gal. S'heart, a Ghost! This is an odd preparative to Love. [Aside.

Cor, 'Tis Laura, my Brother Julio's Mistress, and Sister to Octavio.

Gal. Death, Madam! do not scare away my Love with Tales of Ghosts, and Fancies of the Dead. I'll give ye Proofs I'm living loving Man, as errant an amorous Mortal as Heart can wish—I hope she will not jilt me too. [Aside.

Cor. So! he's at his common Proof for all Arguments; if she shou'd take him at his Word now, and she'll be sure to do't.

Lau. Amiable Stranger, pardon the Mistake, And charge it on a Passion for a Brother: Devotion was not more retir'd than I, Vestals or widow'd Matrons when they weep; Till by a fatal Chance I saw in you, The dear Resemblance of a murder'd Brother. [Weeps.

Jul. What the Devil can she mean by this? [Aside.

Lau. I durst not trust my Eyes, yet still I gaz'd, And that encreas'd my Faith you were my Brother: But since they err'd, and he indeed is dead, Oh, give me leave to pay you all that Love, That Tenderness and Passion that was his. [Weeping.

Cor. So, I knew she wou'd bring Matters about some way or other. Oh Mischief, Mischief, help me! S'life, I can be wicked enough when I have no use on't! and now have, I'm as harmless as a Fool.

[_As Gal. _is earnestly talking to_ Lau. Julio _pulls him by the Sleeve_.

Lau. Oh, save me, save me from the Murderer.

Jul. Hah!

Gal. A Murderer, where?

Lau. I faint, I die with horror of the Sight!

Gal. Hah—my Friend a Murderer! sure you mistake him, Madam; he saw not Rome till yesterday; an honest Youth, Madam, and one that knows his distance upon occasion!—S'life, how cam'st thou here?—prithee be gone and leave us.

Jul. Why, do you know this Lady, Sir?

Gal. Know her!—a—ay, ay,—Man—and all her Relations, she's of Quality:—withdraw, withdraw—Madam—a—he is my Friend, and shall be civil.—

Lau. I have an easy Faith for all you say:—but yet however innocent he be, or dear to you, I beg he wou'd depart—he is so like my Brother's Murderer, that one Look more wou'd kill me—

Jul. A Murderer! charge me with Cowardice, with Rapes or Treasons— Gods, a Murderer!

Cor. A Devil on her, she has robb'd the Sex of all their Arts of Cunning.

Gal. Pox on't, thou'rt rude; go, in good Manners go.

Lau. I do conjure ye to torture me no more: If you wou'd have me think you're not that Murderer, Be gone, and leave your Friend to calm my Heart Into some kinder Thoughts.

Gal. Ay, prithee go, I'll be sure to do thy Business for thee.

Cor. Yes, yes, you will not fail to do a friendly Part, no doubt—

Jul. 'Tis but in vain to stay—I see she did mistake her Man last night, and 'twas to Chance I am in debt for that good Fortune;—I will retire to shew my Obedience, Madam. [Exit. Jul. Gal. going to the door with him.

Lau. He's gone, and left me Mistress of my Wish. Descend, ye little winged Gods of Love, Descend and hover round our Bower of Bliss; Play all in various Forms about the Youth, And empty all your Quivers at his Heart. [Aside. [Gal. returns, she takes him by the hand. —Advance, thou dearer to my Soul than Kindred, Thou more than Friend or Brother. Let meaner Souls base-born conceal the God; Love owns his Monarchy within my Heart, So Kings that deign to visit humble Roofs, Enter disguis'd, but in a noble Palace, Own their great Power, and shew themselves in Glory.

Gal. I am all Transport with this sudden Bliss, And want some kind Allay to fit my Soul for Recompence.

Cor. Yes, yes, my forward Friend, you shall have an Allay, if all my Art can do't, to damp thee even to Disappointment.

Gal. My Soul's all Wonder; now let us retire, And gaze till I have softened it to Love. [Going out is met by Cor.

Cor. Madam!

Lau. More Interruption!—hah— [Turns.

Cor. My Master, the young Count Julio—

Lau. Julio!

Gal. What of him? [Aside.

Cor. Being just now arriv'd at Rome—

Lau. Heavens, arriv'd! [Aside.

Cor. Sent me to beg the Honour of waiting on you.

Lau. Sure, Stranger, you mistake.—

Cor. If, Madam, you are Laura Lucretia.—

Gal. Laura Lucretia! by Heaven, the very Woman he's to marry. [Aside.

Lau. This would surprize a Virgin less resolv'd: But what have I to do with ought but Love? [Aside. —And can your Lord imagine this an Hour To make a ceremonious Visit in?

Gal. Riddles by Love! or is't some Trick again? [Aside.

Cor. Madam, where Vows are past, the want of Ceremony may be pardon'd.

Lau. I do not use to have my Will disputed, Be gone, and let him know I'll be obey'd.

Cor. S'life, she'll out-wit me yet,— [Aside. Madam, I see this Niceness is not general, —You can except some Lovers.

Gal. My pert young Confident, depart, and let your Master know he'll find a better welcome from the fair vain Curtezan, la Silvianetta, where he has past the Night, and given his Vows.

Lau. Dearly devis'd, and I must take the hint. [Aside smiling.

Cor. He knows me sure, and says all this to plague me. [Aside. My Lord, my Master with a Curtezan! he's but just now arriv'd.

Gal. A pretty forward saucy lying Boy this; and may do well in time.— Madam, believe him not, I saw his Master yesterday,—convers'd with him. —I know him, he's my Friend;—'twas he that parted hence but now, he told me all his Passion for a Curtezan scarce half an hour since.

Cor. So!

Lau. I do not doubt it, Oh, how I love him for this seasonable Lye: —And can you think I'll see a perjur'd Man, [To Cor. Who gives my interest in him to another? —Do I not help ye out most artfully?— [Aside. Laughing to Gal.

Cor. I see they are resolv'd to out-face me.

Gal. Nay, vow'd to marry her.

Lau. Heavens, to marry her!

Cor. To be conquer'd at my own Weapon too!—Lying! 'tis a hard case.— [Aside.

Gal. Go, Boy, you may be gone; you have you Answer, Child, and may depart—Come, Madam, let us leave him.

Cor. Gone, no help! Death, I'll quarrel with him,—nay, fight him,— damn him,—rather than lose him thus.—Stay, Signior. [Pulls him.]—You call me Boy—but you may find your self mistaken, Sir,—And know—I've that about me may convince ye. [Shewing his Sword. —'Thas done some Execution.

Gal. Prithee, on whom or what? small Village Curs? The barking of a Mastiff wou'd unman thee. [Offers to go.

Cor. Hold—follow me from the Refuge of her Arms; As thou'rt a Man, I do conjure thee do't:—I hope he will, I'll venture beating for't. [Aside.

Gal. Yes, my brisk little Rascal, I will a—a—

Lau. By all that's good, you shall not stir from hence; ho, who waits there, Antonio, Silvio, Gaspero? [Enter all.] —take that fierce Youth, and bear him from my sight.

Cor. You shall not need; s'life, these rough Rogues will be too hard for me; I've one prevention left,—farewel.

May'st thou supply her with as feeble Art, As I should do, were I to play thy part.

[Goes out with the rest.

Gal. He's gone, now let's redeem our blessed Minutes lost.

[Go in.

SCENE III. Changes to the Street.—Piazo d'Hispagnia.

Enter Julio alone.

Jul. Now by this breaking Day-light I cou'd rave: I knew she mistook me last night, which made me so eager to improve my lucky Minutes. Sure, Galliard is not the Man, I long to know the Mystery;—hah—who's here? —Fillamour!

Enter Fillamour met by Marcella in Man's Clothes; they pass by each other, cock and justle.

Mar. I take it, you are he I look for, Sir.

Fil. My name is Fillamour.

Mar. Mine, Julio Sebastiano Morosini.

Jul. Hah, my Name, by Heaven! [Aside.

Fil. I doubt it not, since in that lovely Face I see the charming Image of Marcella.

Jul. Hah!

Mar. You might, e'er Travel ruffled me to Man. [Aside. —I shou'd return thy Praise whilst I survey thee, But that I came not here to compliment;—draw— [Draws.

Fil. Why, cause thou'rt like Marcella?

Mar. That were sufficient reason for thy Hate, But mine's because thou hast betray'd her basely. —She told me all the story of her Love, How well you meant, how honestly you swore, And with a thousand Tears imploy'd my Aid To break the Contract she was forc'd to make T' Octavio, and give her to your Arms: I did, and brought you word of our Design, —I need not tell ye what returns you made; Let it suffice, my Sister was neglected, Neglected for a Curtezan,—a Whore; I watcht, and saw each Circumstance of Falshood.

Jul. Damnation! what means this?

Fil. I scorn to save my Life by Lyes or Flatteries; But credit me, the Visit that I made I durst have sworn had been to my Marcella; Her Face, her Eyes, her Beauty was the same, Only the business of her Language differ'd, And undeceiv'd my hope.

Mar. In vain thou think'st to flatter me to Faith,— When thou'dst my Sister's Letter in thy hand, which ended that dispute, Even then I saw with what regret you read it; What care you took to disobey it too— The shivering Maid, half dead with fears and terrors of the Night, In vain expected a Relief from Love or thee. Draw, that I may return her the glad news I have reveng'd her.

Jul. Hold, much mistaken Youth; 'tis I am Julio, Thou, Fillamour, know'st my name, know'st I arriv'd But yesterday at Rome, and heard the killing News Of both my Sisters Flights, Marcella and Cornelia,— And thou art some Imposture. [To Marcella.

Mar. If this now shou'd be true, I were in a fine condition.— [Aside.

Fil. Fled! Marcella fled!

Jul. 'Twas she I told thee yesterday was lost; But why art thou concern'd?—explain the Mystery.

Fil. I lov'd her more than Life; nay, even than Heaven; And dost thou question my concern for her? Say how, and why, and whither is she fled?

Jul. Oh, wou'd I knew, that I might kill her in her Lover's Arms; Or if I found her innocent, restore her to Octavio.

Fil. To Octavio! and is my Friendship of so little worth, You cannot think I merit her?

Jul. This is some trick between 'em; but I have sworn

Most solemnly, have sworn by Heaven and my Honour To resign her, and I will do't or die— Therefore declare quickly, declare where she is, Or I will leave thee dead upon the place. [To Marcella.

Mar. So, Death or Octavio, a pretty hopeful Choice this!

Fil. Hold! by Heaven, you shall not touch a single hair, thus—will I guard the Secret in his bosom. [Puts himself between 'em, draws.

Jul. 'Tis plain thou'st injur'd me,—and to my Honour I'll sacrifice my Friendship, follow me. [Ex. Jul. Fil.

Enter Petro and Cornelia.

Mar. Ah, Petro, fly, fly, swift and rescue him.— [Ex. Pet. with his Sword in his hand.

Cor. Oh, have I found thee, fit for my purpose too? Come, haste along with me,—thou must present my Brother Julio instantly, or I am lost, and my Project's lost, and my Man's lost, and all's lost.

Enter Petro.

Pet. Victoria, Victoria, your Cavalier's the Conqueror; the other wounded in his Sword-hand, was easily disarmed.

Mar. Then let's retire, if I am seen I'm lost;—Petro, stay here for the Cavalier, and conduct him to me to this house;—I must be speedy now.—

Cor. Remember this is Julio. [Pointing to Marcella.

Pet. I know your design, and warrant ye my part:—hah, Octavio [Exeunt.

Enter Octavio, Morosini and Crapine.

Oct. Now, Cowardice, that everlasting Infamy, dwell ever on my face, that Men may point me out that hated Lover that saw his Mistress false, stood tamely by whilst she repeated Vows; nay, was so infamous, so dully tame, to hear her swear her Hatred and Aversion, yet still I calmly listen'd; though my Sword were ready, and did not cut his throat for't.

Mor. I thought you'd said you'd fought.

Oct. Yes, I did rouze at last, and wak'd my Wrongs; But like an Ass, a patient Fool of Honour, I gave him friendly notice I wou'd kill him; And fought like Prizers, not as angry Rivals.

Mor. Why, that was handsome,—I love fair play; what wou'd you else have done?

Oct. Have fall'n upon him like a sudden Storm, [Enter Pet. and Fill.] quick unexpected in his height of Love:—see—see yonder; or I'm mistaken by this glimmering Day, or that is Fillamour now entering at her door; 'tis he, by my Revenge—What say you, Sir?

Mor. By th' Mass, I think 'twas he—

[Enter Julio.

Oct. Julio, I've caught the Wantons in their Toil, I have 'em fast, thy Sister and her Lover. [Embraces him.

Jul. Eternal Shame light on me if they scape then.

Oct. Follow me quick, whilst we can get Admittance.

Jul. Where—here?

Oct. Here,—come all and see her Shame and my Revenge.

Jul. And are you not mistaken in the House?

Oct. Mistaken! I saw the Ravisher enter just now, thy Uncle saw it too; Oh, my excessive Joy! come, if I lye—say I'm a Dog, a Villain.

[Exeunt as into the House.

SCENE IV. Changes to a Chamber.

Enter Sir Signal a little groping.

Sir Sig. There's no finding my way out,—and now does Fear make me fancy this some inchanted Castle.—

Enter Tick, listening.

Tick. Hah, an inchanted Castle!

Sir Sig. Belonging to a monstrous Giant; who having spirited away the King of Tropicipopican's Daughter, keeps her here inclos'd, and that I a wandring Knight am by fickle Fortune sent to her Deliverance. [Tick listens.

Tick. How's that! spirited away the King of Tropicipopican's Daughter; bless me, what unlawful Wickedness is practis'd in this Romish Heathenish Country! [Aside.

Sir Sig. And yet the Devil of any Dwarf, Squire or Damsel have I met with yet,—wou'd I were cleanlily off this business—hah, Lights, as I live, and People coming this way!—bless me from the Giant!—Oh Lord, what shall I do!— [Falls on his Knees.

Tick. I fear no Giants, having Justice on my Side; but Reputation makes me tender of my Person.—Hah—what's this, a Curtain; I'll wind my self in this, it may secure me. [Winds himself in a Window-Curtain.

Sir Sig.—They're entering, what shall I do?—hah—here's a Corner; defend me from a Chimney.

[Creeps to the Corner of the Window, and feels a space between Tick's Legs and the Corner; creeps in, and stands up just behind Tickletext. Enter Gal. leading Laura; Sab. with Lights just after 'em; Jul. Oct. Mor. and Crap.

Oct. Just in the happy Minute!

Gal. I've sworn by every God, by every Power divine, to marry thee, and save thee from the Tyranny of a forc'd Contract.—Nay, Gad, if I lose a fine Wench for want of Oaths this bout, the Devil's in me.

Oct. What think ye now, Sir?

Jul. Damnation on her, set my Rage at Liberty, That I may kill 'em both.

[Mor. holds him.

Mor. I see no cause for that, she may be virtuous yet.

Oct. Do ye think as such to pass her off on me, Or that I'll bear the Infamy of your Family? No, I scorn her now, but can revenge my Honour on a Rival.

Mor. Nay, then I'll see fair Play,—turn and defend thy Life. [Goes to Gal. who turns.

Jul. Whilst I do Justice on the Prostitute:—hah— Defend me, 'tis the Woman that I love. [He gazes, she runs to Gal.

Lau. Octavio!

Oct. Laura! My Sister, perfidious shameful— [Offers to kill her.

Jul. Hold, thy Sister this? that Sister I'm to marry.

Lau. Is this then Julio? and do all the Powers conspire to make me wretched?

Oct. May I be dumb for ever.

[Holds his Sword down, and looks sadly; Jul. holds Lau. by one hand, pleads with Oct. with the other.

Enter Fillamour and Pet.

Fil.—Hah, Galliard! in danger too. [Draws, steps to 'em, Mor. puts between.

Oct. Fillamour here! how now, what's the matter, Friend? [They talk whilst enter Marcella and Cornelia.

Cor. Hah, new Broils; sure the Devil's broke loose to night.—my Uncle, as I live! [Mor. pleads between Fil. and Octavio.

Mar. And Octavio! Where shall we fly for Safety?

Cor. I'll even trust to my Breeches, 'tis too late to retreat;—s'life, here be our Cavaliers too; nay then, ne'er fear falling into the Enemies hands.

Fil. I, I fled with Marcella! had I been blest with so much Love from her, I wou'd have boasted on't i'th' face of Heaven.

Mor. La ye, Sir. [To Octavio.

Fil. The lovely Maid I own I have a Passion for; But by the Powers above, the Flame was sacred, And wou'd no more have past the Bounds of Honour Or Hospitality, than I wou'd basely murder; and were she free, I wou'd from all the World make her for ever mine.

Mor. Look ye, Sir, a plain case this.

Gal. He tells ye simple truth, Sir.

Oct. Was it not you this scarce past night I fought with here, in the House by dark, just when you had exchanged yours Vows with her?

Lau. Heavens! was it he? [Aside.

Fil. This Minute was the first I ever enter'd here.

Jul. 'Twas I, Sir, was that interrupted Lover,—and this the Lady.

Lau. And must I yield at last? [Aside.

Oct. Wonders and Riddles!

Gal. And was this the Silvianetta, Sir, you told the Story of? [Slily.

Jul. The same whom Inclination, Friends, and Destiny, conspire to make me blest with.

Gal. So many Disappointments in one night wou'd make a Man turn honest in spite of Nature.

[Sir Sig. peeps from behind.

Sir Sig. Some Comfort yet, that I am not the only Fool defeated. Ha! Galllard!

Oct. I'm satisfy'd (To Fil.)—but what cou'd move you, Sir—[to Gal.] to injure me, one of my Birth and Quality?

Gal. Faith, Sir, I never stand upon Ceremony when there's a Woman in the case,—nor knew I 'twas your Sister: Or if I had, I shou'd ha' lik'd her ne'er the worse for that, had she been kind.

Jul. It is my Business to account with him, And I am satisfy'd he has not injur'd me, he is my Friend.

Gal. That's frankly said; and uncompell'd, I swear she's innocent.

Oct. If you're convinc'd, I too am satisfy'd, And give her to you whilst that Faith continues. [Gives him her.

Lau. And must I, must I force my Heart to yield? And yet his generous Confidence obliges me. [Aside.

Oct. And here I vow by all the sacred Powers, [kneels] That punish Perjury, never to set my Heart On faithless Woman;—never to love nor marry; [Rises] Travel shall be my business—thou my Heir. [To Julio.

Sir Sig. So, poor soul, I'll warrant he has been defeated too.

Mar. Marcella, Sir, will take ye at your Word.

Fil. Marcella!

Mar. Who owns with Blushes Truths shou'd be conceal'd, but to prevent more Mischief,—That I was yours, Sir, was against my Will, [to Oct.] my Soul was Fillamour's e'er you claim'd a right in me; though I never saw or held discourse with him, but at an awful distance,—nor knew he of my Flight.

Oct. I do believe, and give thee back my Claim, I scorn the brutal part of Love; the noblest Body, where the Heart is wanting. [They all talk aside, Cornelia comes up to Galliard.

Cor. Why, how now, Cavalier, how like a discarded Favourite do you look now, who whilst your Authority lasted, laid about ye, domineer'd, huft and bluster'd, as if there had been no end on't: now a Man may approach ye without terror—You see the Meat's snatcht out of your Mouth, Sir, the Lady's dispos'd on; whose Friends and Relations you were so well acquainted with.

Gal. Peace, Boy, I shall be angry else.—

Cor. Have you never a cast Mistress, that will take compassion on you: Faith, what think ye of the little Curtezan now?

Gal. As ill as e'er I did; what's that to thee?

Cor. Much more than you're aware on, Sir—and faith, to tell you Truth, I'm no Servant to Count Julio, but e'en a little mischievous Instrument she sent hither to prevent your making love to Donna Laura.

Gal. 'Tis she herself.—how cou'd that Beauty hide itself so long from being known? [Aside.]—Malicious little Dog in a Manger, that wou'd neither eat, nor suffer the Hungry to feed themselves, what spiteful Devil cou'd move thee to treat a Lover thus? but I am pretty well reveng'd on ye.

Cor. On me!

Gal. You think I did not know those pretty Eyes, that lovely Mouth I have so often kist in cold imagination.

Cor. Softly, Tormentor. [They talk aside.

Mar. In this disguise we parted from Viterbo, attended only by Petro and Philippa: At Rome we took the Title and Habit of two Curtezans; both to shelter us from knowledge, and to oblige Fillamour to visit us, which we believ'd he would in curiosity; and yesterday it so fell out as we desired.

Fil. Howe'er my Eyes might be imposed upon, you see my Heart was firm to its first Object; can you forget and pardon the mistake?

Jul. She shall, and with Octavio's and my Uncle's leave,—thus make your Title good.— [Gives her to Fil.

Oct. 'Tis vain to strive with Destiny. [Gives her.

Mor. With all my heart,—but where's Cornelia all this while?

Gal. Here's the fair Stragler, Sir. [Leads her to Mor. he holds his Cane up at her.

Mor. Why, thou Baggage, thou wicked Contriver of Mischief, what excuse had'st thou for running away? Thou had'st no Lover.

Cor. 'Twas therefore, Sir, I went to find one; and if I am not mistaken in the mark, 'tis this Cavalier I pitch upon for that use and purpose.

Gal. Gad, I thank ye for that,—I hope you'll ask my leave first, I'm finely drawn in, i'faith—Have I been dreaming all this night of the possession of a new-gotten Mistress, to wake and find my self noos'd to a dull Wife in the morning?

Fil. Thou talk'st like a Man that never knew the Pleasures thou despisest; faith, try it, Frank, and thou wilt hate thy past loose way of living.

Cor. And to encourage a young Setter up, I do here promise to be the most Mistress-like Wife,—You know, Signior, I have learnt the trade, though I had not stock to practise; and will be as expensive, insolent, vain, extravagant and inconstant, as if you only had the keeping part, and another the amorous Assignations. What think ye, Sir?

Fil. Faith, she pleads well, and ought to carry the Cause.

Gal. She speaks Reason, and I'm resolv'd to trust good Nature:—Give me thy dear hand.—

[They all join to give it him, he kisses it.

Mor. And now ye are both sped, pray give me leave to ask ye a civil question; are you sure you have been honest? if you have, I know not by what miracle you have liv'd.

Pet. Oh, Sir, as for that, I had a small stock of Cash in the hands of a couple of English Bankers, one Sir Signal Buffoon—

Sir Sig. Sir Signal Buffoon, what a pox, does he mean me trow? [Peeping.

Pet.—And one Mr. Tickletext.

Tick. How was that? certo, my Name!

[Peeps out, and both see each other; their faces being close together, one at one side the Curtain, and t'other at t'other.

Gal. and Fil. Ha, ha, ha.

Sir Sig. And have I caught you, i'faith, Mr. Governour? Nay, ne'er put in your head for the matter, here's none but Friends, mun.

Gal. How now, what have we here?

Sir Sig. Speak of the Devil, and he appears. [Pulls his Governour forward.

Tick. I am undone,—but, good Sir Signal, do not cry Whore first, as the old Proverb says.

Sir Sig. And good Mr. Governour, as another old Proverb says, do not let the Kettle call the Pot black-arse!—

Fil. How came you hither, Gentlemen?

Sir Sig. Why faith, Sir, divining of a Wedding or two forward, I brought Mr. Chaplain to give you a cast of his Office, as the saying is.

Fil. What, without Book, Mr. Tickletext?

Cor. How now, sure you mistake, these are two Lovers of mine.

Sig Sig. How, Sir, your Lovers! we are none of those, Sir, we are Englishmen.

Gal. You mistake, Sir Signal, this is Silvianetta.

Sir Sig. and Tick. How! [Aside.

Gal. Here's another Spark of your acquaintance,—do you know him?

Tick. How, Barberacho! nay, then all will out.—

Gal. Yes, and your Fencing and Civility-Master.

Sir Sig. Ay,—Why, what, was it you that pickt our Pockets then, and cheated us?

Gal. Most damnably,—but since 'twas for the supply of two fair Ladies, all shall be restor'd again.

Tick. Some comfort that.

Fil. Come, let's in and forgive all; 'twas but one Night's Intrigue, in which all were a little faulty.

Sir Sig. And Governour, pray let me have no more Domineering and Usurpation: but as we have hitherto been honest Brothers in Iniquity, so let's wink hereafter at each others Frailties;

Since Love and Women easily betray Man, From the grave Gown-man to the busy Lay-man.



EPILOGUE.

Spoken by Mr. Smith.

_So hard the times are, and so thin the Town, Though but one Playhouse, that must too lie down; And when we fail, what will the Poets do? They live by us as we are kept by you: When we disband, they no more Plays will write, But make Lampoons, and libel ye in spite; Discover each false Heart that lies within, Nor Man nor Woman shall in private sin; The precise whoring Husband's haunts betray, Which the demurer Lady to repay, In his own coin does the just debt defray. The brisk young Beauty linked to Lands and Age, Shuns the dull Property and strokes the youthful Page; And if the Stripling apprehend not soon, Turns him aside, and takes the brawny Groom; Whilst the kind Man so true a Husband proves, To think all's well done by the thing he loves; Knows he's a Cuckold, yet content to bear Whatever Heaven sends, or Horns or lusty Heir. Fops of all sorts he draws more artfully, Than ever on the Stage did_ Nokes or Leigh: _And Heaven be prais'd when these are Scarce, each Brother O' th' Pen contrives to set on one another.

These are the effects of angry Poets Rage, Driven from their Winter-Quarters on the Stage; And when we go, our Women vanish too, What will the well-fledg'd keeping Gallant do? And where but here can he expect to find A gay young Damsel managed to his mind, Who ruins him, and yet seems wondrous kind? One insolent and false, and what is worse, Governs his Heart, and manages his Purse; Makes him whatever she'd have him to believe, Spends his Estate, then learns him how to live? I hope those weighty Considerations will Move ye to keep us altogether still; To treat us equal to our great Desert, And pay your Tributes with a franker Heart; If not, th' aforesaid Ills will come, and we must part_.



NOTES.



NOTES ON THE TEXT.

ABDELAZER.

p. 8 Dramatis Personae. I have added 'Ordonio, a Courtier. A Swain and Shepherds. Courtiers, Guards, Soldiers, Moors, A Nymph and Shepherdesses.'

p. 11, l. 7 But thousand Eyes throw killing Looks at me.

4tos—'But thousand Eyes Throw killing Looks at me.'

p, 11, l. 26 Than to lie fawning. 4to misprints 'Then'.

p. 12, l. 10 reveng'd by penitence. 1724 misprints 'Patience'.

p. 12, l. 33 Why star'st thou so? 1724 wrongly 'Why dar'st thou so?'

p. 13, l. 5 wou'd they search her here? 1724 'wou'd you search her here?'

p. 13, l. 25 swounded. 1724 'swooned'.

p. 13, l. 33 more knocking! [knocking. 1724 omits the stage direction.

p. 15, l. 4 Sway'd Destiny as well as they, and took their trade of killing.

4to—'Sway'd Destiny as well as they, And took their trade of killing.'

p. 15, l. 16 Pointing to his Sword. 4to 'Points.'

p. 15, l. 17 Scene II. A Room in the Palace. I have supplied this locale.

p. 15, l. 18 Enter Ferdinand weeping. 4to 'Enter Fernando weeping.'

p. 19, ll. 33-4 Covers a Soul more sanctify'd than this Moorish Robe. 1724 gives this as one line.

p. 20, l. 8 except Abdelazar, Florella. 4to 'manent Abdelazer, Florella.'

p. 20, l. 17 honest and religious. 1724 omits 'and'.

p. 24, l. 2 Scene I. A Chamber of State. I have added the locale.

p. 27, l. 27 To the Women, who go out. 4to 'Exeunt'.

p. 31, l. 15 Madam, that Blessing. 1724 omits 'Madam'.

p. 33, l. 8 Scene II. A Banqueting Hall. I have added the locale.

p. 33, l. 15 I have a double Cause. 1724 omits 'a'.

p. 34, l. 19 though. 1724 'tho' throughout.

p. 34, l. 27 thou lovest. 1724 'lov'st'.

p. 35, l. 13 Aside. The 4to omits this stage direction.

p. 38, l. 18 A Gallery in the Palace. I have supplied this locale.

p. 40, l. 11 Queen and Women. 1724 'Woman'.

p. 40, l. 28 subtle, and ambitious. 4to 'subtle as ambitious.' 1724 is undoubtedly the best reading.

p. 42, ll. 23-4 And then our Lives he may dispose, As he has done our Honours. 1724 gives this as one line.