THE CARDINAL, A TRAGEDIE, AS It was acted at the private House IN BLACK FRYERS, WRITTEN By JAMES SHIRLEY.

Not Printed before.

LONDON, Printed for Humphrey Robinson at the Pigeons, and Humphrey Moseley at the Arms in St. Paul's Church-yard. 1652.

To my worthily honored Friend G. B. Esq

SIR,

I Did suffer at the first some contention with­in me, and looking upon my self, was inclined to stifle my ambitious thoughts in this Dedi­cation; but when some time, and a happy con­versation, had preferred me to more acquaintance with you, (which was more argument to me, than the fame I had heard of your reputation, with the most temperate and ingenious men) I found you not only an excellent Judge, but a good Man: at this my modesty took full encouragement, to make this offering, which as I conceive to be the best of my flock, I knew not a better Altar whereon to make it a sacrifice, with this protestation, that it comes (and that is it only, which makes all devoti­ons [Page]acceptable) from the heart, and your candid acceptance will bind me with all my services, and remembrance, to merit a reception with you, in the quality and honour of,

Sir,
Your most humble devoted Servant, JA. SHIRLEY

Prologue.

THe Cardinal, cause we express no scene,
We doe believe most of you Gentlemen
Are at this hour in France, and busie there,
Though you vouchsafe to lend your bodies here;
But keep your fancy active, till you know
By th' progress of our Play, 'tis nothing so;
A Poets art is to lead on your thought
Through subtle paths and workings of a plot,
And where your expectation does not thrive,
If things fall better, yet you may forgive;
I will say nothing positive, you may
Think what you please, we call it but a Play,
Whether the comick Muse, or Ladies love,
Romance, or direfull Tragedy it prove,
The Bill determines not; and would you be
Perswaded, I would have't a Comedie,
For all the purple in the name, and state
Of him that owns it; but 'tis left to fate;
Yet I will tell you e'r you see it plaid,
What the Author, and he blusht too, when he said
(Comparing with his own for 't had been pride
He thought, to build his wit a Pyramyde.
Vpon anothers wounded Fame,) this Play
Might rivall with his best, and dar'd to say
Troth I am out; he said no more; you then,
When'ts done, may say your pleasures Gentlemen.

To the surviving Honour and Ornament of the English Scene, Iames Shirley.

AS Fate, which doth all human matters sway,
Makes produest things grow up into decay;
And when they are to envyed greatness grown,
She wantonly falls off, and throws them down:
So, when our English Dramma was at hight,
And shin'd, and rul'd with Majesty and might,
A sudden whirlwind threw it from it seat,
Deflowr'd the Groves, and quench'd the Muses heat.
Yet as in Saints, and Martyr'd bodies, when
They cannot call their blessed Souls agen
To earth; Reliques, and ashes men preserve,
And think they do, but what, blest they deserve:
So I, by my devotion led, aspire
To keep alive your noble Vestal fire,
Honour this piece, which shews, Sir, you have been
The last supporter of the dying Scene;
And though I do not tell you, how you dress
Virtue in gloryes, and bold vice depress;
Nor celebrate your lovely Dutchess fall,
Or the just ruine of your Cardinal;
Yet this I dare assert, when men have nam'd
Iohnson (the Nations Laureat,) the fam'd
Beaumont, and Fletcher, he, that wo'not see
Shirley, the fourth, must forfeit his best ey.
HALL.

Persons.

  • KIng of Navarre.
  • Cardinal.
  • Columbo, the Cardinals Nephew.
  • Alvarez.
  • Hernando, a Colonel.
  • Alphonso.
  • Lords.
  • Secretary to the Dutchess.
  • Colonels
  • Antonelli, the Cardinals Servant.
  • Surgion.
  • Guard.
  • Attendants, &c.
  • Dutchess Rosaura▪
  • Valeria, Ladies.
  • Celinda, Ladies.
  • Placentia, a Lady that waits upon the Dutchess.

Scene Navarre.

THE CARDINAL.

ACT I.

Enter two Lords (at one door) Secretary (at the other.)
1 Lord.
WHo is that?
2 Lo.
The Dutchess Secretary.
1 Lo.
Signior.
Secr.
Your Lordships Servant.
1 Lo.
How does her Grace since she left her mourning
For the young Duke Mendoza, whose timeless death
At Sea, left her a Virgin and a Widdow?
2 Lo.
Shee's now inclining to a second Bride,
When is the day of mighty mariage
To our great Cardinals Nephew, Don Columbo?
Secr.
When they agree; they wo'not steal to Church,
I guess the ceremonies will be loud, and publick.
Your Lordships will excuse me.
Exit.
1 Lo.
When they agree? alas poor Lady, she
Dotes not upon Columbo, when she thinks
Of the young Count D'Alvarez, divorc'd from her
By the Kings power.
2 Lo.
And Counsell of the Cardinal to advance
His Nephew to the Dutchess bed; 'tis not well.
1 Lo.
Take heed, the Cardinal holds intelligence
[Page]
With every bird i'th' air.
2 Lo.
Death on his purple pride,
He governs all, and yet, Columbo is
A gallant Gentleman.
1 Lo.
The darling of the War, whom Victory
Hath often courted; a man of daring
And most exalted spirit, pride in him
Dwels like an ornament, where so much honour
Secures his praise.
2 Lo.
This is no argument
He should usurp, and wear Alvarez title
To the fair Dutchess, men of coarser blood
Would not so tamely give this treasure up.
1 Lo.
Although Columbos name is great in war,
Whose glorious art and practice is above
The greatness of Alvarez, yet he cannot
Want soul, in whom alone survives the virtue
Of many noble Ancestors, being the last
Of his great family
2 Lo.
'Tis not safe, you'l say, to wrastle with the King.
1 Lo.
More danger if the Cardinal be displeas'd,
Who sits at helm of State; Count D' Alvarez
Is wiser to obey the stream, than by
Insisting on his privilege to her love,
Put both their fate upon a storm.
2 Lo.
If Wisdom, not inborn Fear make him compose,
I like it; how does the Dutchess bear herself?
1 Lo.
She moves by the rapture of another wheel
That must be obey'd, like some sad passenger,
That looks upon the coast his wishes fly to,
But is transported by an adverse wind, sometimes
A churlish Pilot.
2 Lo.
She has a sweet and noble nature.
1 Lo.
That commend; Alvarez, Hymen cannot tie
A knot of two more equall hearts and blood.
Enter Alphonso.
2 Lo.
Alphonso?
Alph.
My good Lord.
1 Lo.
What great affair
Hath brought you from the confines?
Alp.
Such as will
Be worth your counsells, when the King hath read
My Letters from the Governour; the Arragonians,
Violating their confederate oath and league,
Are now in arms; they have not yet marcht towards us,
But 'tis not safe to expect if we may timely
Prevent Invasion
2 Lo.
Dare they be so insolent?
1 Lo.
This storm I did foresee.
2 Lo.
What have they, but the sweetness of the King,
To make a crime?
1 Lo.
But how appears the Cardinal
At this news?
Alp.
Not pale, although
He knows they have no cause to think him innocent,
As by whose Counsell they were once surpriz'd.
1 Lo.
There is more
Than all our present art can fathome in
This story, and I fear I may conclude,
This flame has breath at home to cherish it;
Ther's treason in some hearts, whose faces are
Smooth to the State.
Alp.
My Lords, I take my leave.
2 Lo.
Your friends good Captain.
Excunt.
Enter Dutchess, Valeria, Celinda.
Val.
Sweet Madam be less thoughtfull, this obedience
To passion, will destroy the noblest frame
Of beauty that this Kingdom ever boasted.
Cel.
This sadness might become your other habit,
And ceremonious black for him that died;
[Page]
[...]he times of sorrow are expir'd, and all
[...]he joys that wait upon the Court, your birth,
[...]nd a new Hymen that is coming towards you,
[...]nvite a change.
Dut.
Ladies, I thank you both,
[...] pray excuse a little melancholy
[...]hat is behind, my year of mourning hath not
[...]o cleer'd my account with sorrow, but there may
[...]ome dark thoughts stay, with sad reflections,
Upon my heart for him I lost; even this
New dress, and smiling garment, meant to shew
A peace concluded twixt my grief and me,
Is but a sad remembrance: but I resolve
[...]o entertain more pleasing thoughts, and if
You wish me heartily to smile, you must
Not mention grief, not in advice to leave it;
Such Counsells open but afresh the wounds
Ye would close up; and keep alive the cause,
Whose bleeding you would cure; lets talk of something
That may delight; you two are read in all
The Histories of our Court; tell me Valeria,
Who has thy vote for the most handsome man?
Thus I must counterfeit a peace, when all
Within me is at mutiny.
Val.
I have examin'd
All that are Candidates for the praise of Ladies.
But find—may I speak boldly to your Grace?
And will you not return it in your mirth,
To make me blush?
Dut.
No, no; speak freely.
Val.
I wo'not rack your patience Madam, but
Were I a Princess, I should think Count D' Alvarez
Had sweetness to deserve me from the world.
Dut.
Alvarez! shee's a spy upon my heart.
Val.
Hee's young, and active, and compos'd most sweet­ly.
Dut.
I have seen a face more tempting.
Val.
It had then
Too much of woman in't, his eys speak movingly
Which may excuse his voice, and lead away
All female pride his captive; His hair Black,
Which naturally falling into curl's—
Dut.
Prethee no more, thou art in love with him.
The man in your esteem Celinda now?
Cel.
Alvarez is (I must confess) a Gentleman
Of handsome composition, but with
His mind (the greater excellence) I think
Another may delight a Lady more,
If man be well considered, that's Columbo,
Now, Madam, voted to be yours.
Dut.
My Torment!
Val.
She affects him not.
Cel.
He has person, and a bravery beyond
All men that I observe.
Val.
He is a Souldier,
A rough-hewn man, and may shew well at distance;
His talk will fright a Lady; War, and grim-
Fac'd-honor are his Mistrisses; he raves
To hear a Lute; Love meant him not his Priest.
Again your pardon Madam; we may talk,
But you have art to choose and crown affection.
Dut.
What is it to be born above these Ladies
And want their freedom? they are not constrain'd,
Nor slav'd by their own greatness, or the Kings;
But let their free hearts look abroad, and choose
By their own eys to love; I must repair
My poor afflicted bosome, and assume
The privilege I was born with; which now prompts me
To tell the King he hath no power nor art
To steer a Lovers Soul.
Enter Secretary.
What says Count D'Alvares?
Sec.
Madam hee'l attend you.
Dut.
Wait you as I directed, when he comes
Acquaint me privately.
Sec.
Madam, I have news,
'Tis now arriv'd the Court, we shall have wars.
Dut.
I find an Army here of killing thoughts.
Sec.
The King has chosen Don Columbo General,
Who is immediately to take his leave.
Dut.
What flood is let into my heart! how far
Is he to go?
Sec.
To Arragon.
Dut.
That's well
At first, he should not want a pilgrimage
To the unknown World, if my thoughts might convey him.
Sec.
Tis not impossible he may go thither.
Dut.
How?
Sec.
To the unknown other World, he goes to fight,
That's in his way, such stories are in nature.
Dut.
Conceal this news.
Sec.
He wo'not be long absent;
The affair will make him swift to kiss your Graces hand.
Dut.
He cannot flie
With too much wing to take his leave; I must
Be admitted to your conference; ye have
Enlarg'd my spirits, they shall droop no more.
Cel.
We are happy, if we may advance one thought
To your Graces pleasure.
Val.
Your ey before was in eclipse, these smiles
Become you Madam.
Dut.
I have not skill to contain my self.
Enter Placentia.
Pla.
The Cardinals Nephew, Madam, Don Columbo.
Dut.
Already? attend him.
Ex. Plac.
Val.
Shall we take our leave?
Dut.
He shall not know Valeria how you prais'd him.
Val.
If He did, Madam, I should have the confidence
To tell him my free thoughts.
Enter Columbo.
Dut.
My Lord, while I'm in study to requite
The Favour you ha' done me, you increase
My debt to such a sum, still by a new honouring
Your servant, I despair of my own freedom.
Col.
Madam, he kisseth your white hand, that must
Not surfet in this happiness—and Ladies,
I take your smiles for my encouragement:
I have not long to practise these Court t [...]cticks.
Col.
He has been taught to kiss.
Dut.
Ther's something, Sir,
Upon your brow I did not read before.
Col.
Does the Character please you Madam?
Dut.
More,
Because it speaks you cheerfull.
Col.
'Tis for such
Access of honour, as must make Columbo
Worth all your love; the King is pleas'd to think
Me fit to lead his Army.
Dut.
How, an Army?
Col.
We must not use the Priest, till I bring home
Another triumph, that now staies for me
To reap it in the purple field of glory.
Dut.
But do you mean to leave me, and expose
Your self to the devouring war? no enemy
Should Divide us; the King is not so cruell.
Col.
The King is honourable, and this grace
More answers my ambition, than his gift
Of thee, and all thy beauty, which I can
Love, as becomes thy Souldier, and fight
She weeps
To come agen, a conqueror of thee;
Then I must chide this fondnesse.
Enter Secretary.
Sec.
Madam, the King, and my Lord Cardinal.
Enter King, Cardinall, and Lords.
King:
Madam, I come to call a Servant from you,
And strengthen his excuse; the publick cause
Will plead for your consent; at his return
Your mariage shall receive triumphant ceremonies;
Till then you must dispence.
Card.
She appears sad
To part with him, I like it fairly Nephew.
Val.
Is not the General a gallant man?
What Lady would deny him a small courtesie?
Cel.
Thou hast converted me, and I begin
To wish it were no sin.
Val.
Leave that to narrow Consciences.
Cel.
[...] pleasant.
Val.
But [...] would please one better. Do such men
Lie with their Pages?
Cel.
Would'st thou make a shift?
Val.
He is going to a bloody business;
'Tis pity he should dye without some heir;
That Lady were hard-hearted now that would
Not help posterity, for the meer good
O'th' King and Common-wealth.
Col.
Thou art wild, we may be observ'd.
Dut.
Your will must guide me, happiness and conquest
Be ever waiting on his sword.
Col.
Farewell.
Ex. K. Col. Card Lo.
Dut.
Pray give leave to examine a few thoughts;
Expect me in the Garden.
Ladies
We attend.
Ex. Ladies.
Dut.
This is above all expectation happy;
Forgive me virtue that I have dissembled,
And witness with me, I have not a thought
To tempt or to berray him, but secure
The promise I first made to love and honour.
Enter Secretary.
Sec.
The Count D' Alvarez Madam.
Dut.
Admit him.
And let none enterrupt us; how shall I
Behave my looks? the guilt of my neglect,
Which had no seal from hence, will call up blood
To write upon my cheeks the shame and story
In some red Letter.
Enter D' Alvarez.
D' Alv.
Madam, I present
One that was glad to obey your Grace, and come
To know what your commands are.
Dut.
Where I once
Did promise love, a love that had the Power
And office of a Priest to chain my heart
To yours, it were injustice to command.
D' Alv.
But I can look upon you Madam, as
Becomes a servant, with as much humility,
(In tenderness of your honor and great fortune,)
Give up, when you call back your bounty, all that
Was mine, as I had pride to think them favours.
Dut.
Hath love taught thee no more assurance in
Our mutuall vows, thou canst suspect it possible,
I should revoke a promise made to heaven
And thee so soon? this must arise from some
Distrust of thy own Faith.
D' Alv.
Your Graces pardon
To speak with freedom, I am not so old
In cunning to betray, nor young in time
Not to see when, and where I am at loss,
And how to bear my fortune, and my wounds,
Which if I look for health must still bleed inward,
(A hard and desperate condition;)
I am not ignorant your birth and greatness,
[Page 10]
Have plac'd you to grow up with the Kings grace,
And jealousie, which to remove, his power
Hath chosen a fit object for your beauty
To shine upon, Columbo his great fvavorite;
I am a man, on whom but late the King
Has pleas'd to cast a beam, which was not meant
To make me proud, but wisely to direct,
And light me to my safety. Oh, Dear Madam!
I will not call more witness of my love
(If you will let me still give it that name)
Than this, that I dare make my self a loser,
And to your will give all my blessings up;
Preserve your greatness and forget a triflle,
That shall at best when you have drawn me up,
But hang about you like a cloud, and dim
The glories you are born to.
Dut.
Misery
Of birth and state! that I could shift into
A meaner blood, or find some art to purge
That part which makes my veins unequall; yet
Those nice distinctions have no place in us,
Ther's but a shadow difference, a title,
Thy stock partakes as much of noble sap
As that which feeds the root of Kings, and he
That writes a Lord, hath all the essence of
Nobility.
D' Alv.
'Tis not a name that makes
Our separation, the Kings displeasure
Hangs a portent to fright us, and the matter
That feeds this exhalation is the Cardinals
Plot to advance his Nephew; then Columbo,
A man made up for some prodigious Act,
Is fit to be considered; in all three
There is no character you fix upon
But has a form of ruine to us both.
Dut.
Then you do look on these with fear.
D' Alv.
With eys
That should think tears a duty to lament
Your least unkind fate; but my youth dares boldly
Meet all the tyranny o'th' stars, whose black
Malevolence but shoot my single tragedy;
You are above the value of many worlds
Peopled with such as I am.
[...] if Columbo
Engag'd to war, in his hot thirst of honor,
Find out the Way to death?
D' Alv.
Tis possible.
Dut.
Or say, no matter by what art or mo tive
He gives his title up, and leave me to
My own Election?
D' Alv.
If I then be happy
To have a name within your thought, there can
Be nothing left to crown me with New blessing;
But I dream thus of heaven, and wake to find
My amorous soul a mockery; when the Priest
Shall tie you to another, and the joys
Of mariage leave no thought at leasure to
Look ba [...]k upon Alvarez, that must wither
For loss of you, yet then I cannot lose
So much of what I was, once in your favour,
But in a sigh pray still you may live happy.
Exit.
Dut.
My Heart is in a mist, some good star smile
Upon my resolution, and direct
Two lovers in their chast embrace to meet;
Columbo's bed contains my winding sheet.
Exit.

ACT II.

Enter General Columbo, Hernando, two Colonels, Alphonso, two Captains, and other Officers, As at a Councell of War.
Columbo.
I See no face in all this Councell, that
Hath one pale fear upon't though we arriv'd not
So timely to secure the Town, which gives
Our enemy such triumph.
1 Colo.
'Twas betraid
Alp.
The wealth of that one City
Will make the enemy glorious.
1 Colo.
They dare not plunder it.
Alp.
They give fair quarter yet,
They only seal up mens Estates, and keep
Possession for the Cities use, they take up
Now wares without security, and he
Whose single credit will not pass, puts in
Two leane comrades, upon whose bonds tis not
Religion to deny 'em.
Colu.
To repair this
With honour Gentlemen?
Her.
My opinion is
To expect a while.
Colu.
Your reason?
Her.
Till their own
Surfet betray 'em, for their Souldier
Bred up with coarse and common bread, will shew
Such appetites on the rich cates they find,
They will spare our swords a victory, when their own
Riot and Luxury destroys 'em.
1 Colo.
That
[Page]
Will shew our patience too like a fear.
With favour of his excellence I think,
The spoil of Cities takes not off the courage,
But doubles it on Souldiers; besides,
While we have tameness to expect, the noise
Of their success and plenty will encrease
Their Army.
Her.
'Tis considerable, we do not
Exceed in Foot or Horse, our Muster not
'Bove sixteen thousand both; and the Infantry
Raw, and not disciplin'd to act.
Alp.
Their hearts,
But with a brave thought of their Countries honour,
Will teach 'em how to fight, had they not seen
A Sword; but we decline our own too much,
The men are forward in their arms, and take
The use with Avarice of Fame.
They rise and talk privately.
Colu.
Colonell.
I do suspect you are a coward.
Her.
Sir.
Colu.
Or else a traytor, take your choice, no more,
I calld you to a Councell Sir, of war,
Yet keep your place.
Her.
I have worn other names.
Colu.
Deserve 'em, such
Another were enough to unsoul an Army;
Ignobly talk of patience till they drink
And reel to death? we came to fight and force 'em
To mend their pace; thou hast no honour in thee,
Not enough noble blood to make a blush
For thy tame Eloquence.
Her.
My Lord, I know
My duty to a Generall, yet there are
Some that have known me here; Sir, I desire
To quit my regiment.
Colu.
You shall have licence. Ink and paper—
Enter with Paper and Standish.
1 Colo.
The General's displeas'd.
2 Colo.
How is't Hernando?
Her.
The Generall has found out employment for me,
He is writing Letters back.
Al Cap.
To his Mistress.
Her.
Pray do not trouble me, yet prethee speak,
And flatter not thy friend, dost think I dare
Not draw my sword, and use it, when cause
With honour calls to action?
Al. Colo.
With the most valiant man alive.
Her.
You'l do me some displeasure in your loves,
Pray to your places.
Colu.
So,
Bear those Letters to the King,
It speaks my resolution before
Another Sun decline to charge the enemy.
Her.
A pretty Court way
Of di missing an Officer, I obey; success
Attend your Counsells.
Exit.
Colu.
If here be any dare not look on danger,
And meet it like a man with scorn of death,
I beg his absence, and a cowards fear
Consume him to a ghost.
1 Colo.
None such here.
Colu.
Or if in all your Regiments you find
One man that does not ask to bleed with honour,
Give him a double pay to leave the Army;
Ther's service to be done, will call the spirits
And aid of Men.
1 Colo.
You give us all new flame.
Colu.
I am confirm'd, and you must lose no time;
The Souldier that was took last night, to me
Discover'd their whole strength, and that we have
A party in the town; the River that
[Page]
Opens the City to the West unguarded;
We must this night use art and resolutions,
We cannot fall ingloriously.
1 Capt.
That voice is every mans.
Enter Souldier, and Secretary with a Letter.
Colu.
What now?
Soul.
Letters.
Colu.
Whence?
Soul.
From the Dutchess.
Colu.
They are welcome;
Meet at my Tent again this evening; yet stay,
Some Wine—The Dutchess health—
See it go round.
Sec.
It wo'not please his Excellence.
1 Colo.
The Dutchess health.
2 Cap.
To me! more wine.
Sec.
The Clouds are gathering, and his eys shoot fire;
Observe what thunder follows.
2 Cap.
The Generall has but ill news, I suspect
The Dutchess sick, or else the King.
1 Cap.
May be the Cardinal.
2 Cap.
His soul has long been look'd for.
Colu.
She dares not be so infolent! it is
The Dutchess hand; how am I shrunk in Fame
TO be thus plaid withall? she writes, and counsels,
Under my hand to send her back a free
Resigne of all my interest to her person,
Promise, or love; that ther's no other way
With safety of my honour to revisit her.
The woman is possest with some bold Devil,
And wants an exorcism; or I am grown
A cheap, dull, phlegmatick fool, a Post that's carv'd
I'th' common street, and holding out my forehead
To every scurrill wit to pin disgrace
And libells on't; did you bring this to me Sir?
[Page]
My thanks shall warm your heart.
Draws a Pistoll.
Sec.
Hold, hold, my Lord.
I know not what provokes this tempest, but
Her Grace ne't shew'd more freedom from a storm
When I receiv'd this paper; if you have
A will to do an execution,
Your looks without that engin, Sir, may serve.
I did not like the employment.
Colu.
Ha, had she
No symptome in her eye, or face, of anger
When she gave this in charge?
Sec.
Serene, as I
Have seen [...]e morning rise upon the spring,
No trouble in her breath, but such a wind
As came to kiss and fan the smiling flowers.
Colu.
No Poetry.
Sec.
By all the truth in prose,
By honesty, and your own honour Sir,
I never saw her look more calm, and gentle.
Colu.
I am too passionate, you must forgive me;
I have found it out the Dutchess loves me dearly,
She exprest a trouble in her when I took
My leave, and chid me with a fullen ey;
'Tis a device to hasten my return;
Love has a thousand arts; I'l answer it,
Beyond her expectation, and put
Her soul to a noble test; your patience Gentlemen;
The Kings health will deserve a sacrifice of Wine.
Sec.
I am glad to see this change, and thank my wit
For my redemption.
1 Col.
Sir, The Souldiers curse on him lo [...]es not our Master.
2 Col.
And they curse loud enough to be heard.
2 Cap.
Their curse has the nature of Gunpowder.
Sec.
They do not pray with half the noise.
1 Col
Our Generall is not well mixt,
He hes too great a portion of fire.
2 Col.
His Mistris cool him, her complexion
Carries some phlegm, when they two meet in bed?
2 Cap.
A third may follow.
1 Cap.
'Tis much pity.
The young Duke liv'd not to take the virgin off.
1 Col.
'T was the Kings act to match two Rabbet suck­ers.
2 Col.
A common trick of State,
The little great man marries, travells then
Till both grow up; and dies when he should do
The feat; these things are still unlucky
On the male side.
Colu.
This to the Dutchess fair hand.
Sec.
She will think
Time hath no wing, till I return.
Colu.
Gentlemen,
Now each man to his quarter, and encourage
The Souldier; I shall take a pride to know
Your diligence, when I visit all your
Severall commands.
Omnes.
We shall expect,
2 Col.
And move by your directions.
Colu.
Y'are all noble.
Exeunt.
Enter Cardinal, Dutchess, Placentia.
Card.
I shall perform a visit dayly, Madam,
In th' absence of my Nephew, and be happy
If you accept my care.
Dut.
You have honour'd me,
And if your entertainment have not been
Worthy your Graces person, 'tis because
Nothing can reach it in my power; but where
There is no want of zeal, other defect
Is only a fault to exercise your mercy.
Card.
You are bounteous in all; I take my leave;
My fair Neece, shortly, when Columbo has
Purchas'd more honours to prefer his name,
[Page]
And value to your noble thoughts; mean time
Be confident you have a friend, whose Office,
And favour with the King, shall be effectuall
To serve your Grace.
Dut.
Your own good deeds reward you,
Till mine rise equall to deserve their benefit.
Exit Cardinal.
Exit Placen.
Leave me a while.
Do not I walk upon the teeth of serpents;
And, as I had a charm against their poyson,
Play with their stings, the Cardinal is subtle?
Whom tis not wisdom to incense, till I
Hear to what destinie Columbo leaves me;
May be the greatness of his soul will scorn
To own what comes with murmur, If he can
Interpret me so happily; art come?
Enter Secretary with a Letter.
Sec.
His Excellence salutes your Grace.
Dut:
Thou hast
A malencholy brow; how did he take my Letter?
Sec.
As he would take a blow, with so much sense
Of anger, his whole soul boild in his face,
And such prodigious flame in both his eys
As they'd been th' only seat of fire; and at
Each look a Salamander leaping forth,
Not able to endure the Furnace.
Dut.
Ha! thou dost
Describe him with some horror.
Sec.
Soon as he
Had read again, and understood your meaning,
His rage had shot me with a pistoll, had not
I us'd some soft, and penitentiall language,
To charm the Bullet.
Dut.
Wait at some more distance;
My soul doth bath it felf in a cold dew;
[Page 19]
I magin, I am opening of a Tomb,
Thus I throw off the Marble to discover,
What antick posture death presents in this
Pale monument to fright me—
Reads.
Ha? my heart that call'd my blood and spirits, to
Defend it from the invasion of my fears,
Must keep a guard about it still, lest this
Strange and too mighty joy crush it to nothing.
Antonio.
Sec.
Madam.
Dut.
Bid my Steward give thee
Two thousand Ducates; art sure I am awake?
Sec.
I shall be able to resolve you, Madam,
When he has paid them oney.
Dut.
Columbo now is noble.
Exit. Dut.
Sec.
This is better than I expected, if my Lady be
Not mad, and live to justifie her bounty.
Exit.
Enter King, Alvarez, Hernando, Lords.
King.
The War is left to him. but we must have
You reconcil'd, if that be all your difference.
His rage flows like a torrent, when he meets
With opposition, leave to wrastle with him,
And his hot blood retreats into a calm,
And then he chides his passion; you shall back
With letters from us.
Her.
Your Commands, are not
To be disputed.
Kin.
Alvarez.
1 Lo.
Lose not
Your self by cool submission, he will find
His error, and the want of such a Souldier.
2 Lo.
Have you seen the Cardinal?
Her.
Not yet.
1 Lo.
He wants no plot—
Her.
The King I must obey;
[Page 20]
But let the purple Gownman place his engins
I'th' dark that wounds me.
2 Lo.
Be assur'd
Of what we can to friend you, and the King
Cannot forget your service.
Her.
I am sorry
For that poor Gentleman.
Alvar.
I must consess, Sir,
The Dutchess has been pleas'd to think me worthy
Her favours, and in that degree of honour,
That has oblig'd my life to make the best
Return of service, which is not, with bold
Affiance in her love, to interpose
Against her happiness, and your election;
I love so much her honour, I have quitted
All my desires, yet would not shrink to bleed
Out my warm stock of life, so the last drop
Might benefit her wishes.
Ki.
I shall find
A compensation for this act, Alvarez,
I hath much pleased us.
Enter Dutchess with a Letter, Gentleman-Vsher.
Dut.
Sir, you are the King,
And in that sacred title it were sin
To doubt a justice, all that does concern
My essence in this world, and a great part
Of the other bliss, lives in you breath.
Ki.
What intends the Dutchess?
Dut.
That will instruct you, Sir, Columbo has
Upon some better choice, or discontent,
Set my poor soul at freedom.
Ki.
Tis his character—
Reads,
Madam, I casily discharge all my pretensions
To your love, and person, I leave you to your
[Page 21]
Own choice, and in what you have obliged
Your self to me, resume a power to cancell
If you please.
Columbo.
This is strange.
Dut.
Now do an act to make
Your Chronicle belov'd and read for ever.
Ki.
Express your self.
Dut.
Since by Divine infusion,
For tis no art could force the Generall to
This Change, second this justice and bestow
The heart you would have given from me, by
Your strict commands to love Colnmbo, where
'Twas meant by heaven, and let your breath return
Whom you divorc'd, Alvarez, mine.
Lords.
This is but justice, Sir.
Ki.
It was decreed above,
And since Columbo has releas'd his interest
Which we had wrought him, not without some force
Upon your will I give you your own wishes,
Receive your own Alvarez, when you please
To celebrate your Nuptial, I invite
My self your guest.
Dut.
Eternall blessings Crown you.
Omnes.
And every joy your Mariage
Exit King, who meets the Cardinal, they confer.
Alvar.
I know not whether I shall wonder most
Or joy to meet this happiness.
Dut.
Now the King hath planted us
Methinks we grow already, and twist our loving souls
Above the wrath of thunder to divide us.
Alv.
Ha? The Cardinal
Has met the King, I do not like this conference;
He looks with anger this way, I expect
A tempest.
Dut.
Take no notice of his presence,
Leave me to meet, and answer it, if the King
[Page 22]
Be firm in's Royall word, I fear no lightning;
Expect me in the Garden.
Alv.
I obey,
But fear a shipwrack on the coast.
Exit.
Card.
Madam.
Dut.
My Lord.
Car.
The King speaks of a Letter that has brought
A riddle in't.
Dut.
Tis easy to interpret.
Car.
From my Nephew? may I deserve the favour?
Dut.
He looks as though his eys would fire the paper.
They are a pair of Burning glasses, and
His envious blood doth give 'em flame.
Car.
What lethargy could thus unspirit him?
I am all wonder; do not believe Madam,
But that Columbo's love is yet more Sacred,
To honour, and your self, than thus to forfeit
What I have heard him call the glorious wreath
To all his merits, given him by the King,
From whom he took you with more pride than ever
He came from victory; his kisses hang
Yet panting on your lips, and he but now
Exchang'd religious farewell to return,
But with more triumph to be yours.
Dut.
My Lord,
You do believe your Nephews hand was not
Surpriz'd or strain'd to this?
Car.
Strange arts and windings in the world, most dark,
And subtill progresses; who brought this Letter?
Dut.
I enquir'd not his name, I thought it not
Considerable to take such narrow knowledge.
Car.
Desert, and honour urg'd it here, nor can
I blame you to be angry, yet his person
Oblig'd, you should have given a nobler pause,
Before you made your faith and change so violent
From his known worth, into the arms of one,
[Page 23]
How ever fashioned to your amorous wish,
Not equall to his cheapest fame, with all
The gloss of blood and merit.
Dut.
This comparison,
My good Lord Cardinal, I cannot think,
Flows from an even justice, it betrayes
You partiall where your blood runs.
Car.
I fear Madam,
Your own takes two much licence, and will soon,
Fall to the censure of unruly tongues;
Because Alvarez has a softer cheek,
Can like a woman trim his want on hair,
Spend half a day with looking in the glass
To find a posture to present himself,
And bring more effeminacy than man,
Or honour to your bed; must he supplant him?
Take heed, the common murmur when it catches
The sent of a lost Fame—
Dut.
My Fame Lord Cardinal?
It stands upon an innocence as clear
As the devotions you pay to heaven,
I shall not urge my Lord your soft indulgence
At my next shrift.
Car.
You are a fine Court Lady.
Dut.
And you should be a reverend Churchman.
Car.
One, that if you have not thrown off modesty.
Would counsell you to leave Alvarez.
Dut.
Cause you dare do worse
Than Mariage, must not I be admitted what
The Church and Law allowes me?
Car.
Insolent? then you dare marry him?
Dut.
Dare? Let your contracted flame and malice, with
Columbo's rage higher than that, meet us
When we approach the holy place, clasp'd hand
In hand, wee'l break through all your force and six
Our sacred vows together there.
Car.
I knew
When with as chast a brow you promis'd fair
To another; you are no dissembling Lady.
Dut.
Would all your actions had no falser lights
About 'em.
Car.
Ha?
Dut.
The people would not talk and curse so loud.
Car.
I'l have you chid into a blush for this.
Dut.
Begin at home great man, ther's cause enough,
You turn the wrong end of the perspective
Upon your crimes, to drive them to a far,
And lesser sight, but let your eys look right
What giants would your pride and surfeit seem?
How gross your avarice, eating up whole families?
How vast are your corruptions and abuse
Of the Kings ear? at which you hang a pendent,
Not to adorn, but ulcerate, while the honest
Nobility, like pictures in the Arras,
Serve only for Court-Ornament; if they speak,
'Tis when you set their tongues, which you wind up,
Like clocks to strike at the just hour you please;
Leave, leave, my Lord, these usurpations,
And be what you were meant a man to cure,
Not let in Agues to Religion;
Look on the Churches wounds.
Car.
You dare presume
In your rude spleen to me, to abuse the Church?
Dut.
Alas you give false aym, my Lord, 'tis your
Ambition and Scarlet Sins that tob
Her Altar of the glory, and leave wounds
Upon her brow; which fetches grief, and paleness,
Into her cheeks; Making her troubled bosome
Pant with her groanes, and shroud her holy blushes
Within your reverend purples.
Car.
Will you now take breath?
Dut.
In hope, my Lord, you will behold your self
[Page 25]
In a true glass, and see those injust acts
That so deform you, and by timely cure,
Prevent a shame before the short haird men
Do croud and call for justice. I take leave.
Exit.
Car.
This woman has a spirit, that may rise
To tame the Devils, ther's no dealing with
Her angry tongue, 'tis action and revenge
Must calm her fury; were Columbo here,
I could resolve, but Letters shall be sent
To th'Army which may wake him into sense
Of his rash folly, or direct his spirit
Some way to snatch his honour from this flame,
All great men know, The soul of life is same.
Exit.

ACT III.

Enter Valeria, Celinda.
Valeria.
I Did not think Celinda when I prais'd
Alvarez to the Dutchess, that things thus
Would come about, what does your Ladiship
Think of Columbo now? it staggers all
The Court, he should forsake his Mistress, I
Am lost with wonder yet.
Celind.
'Tis very strange
Without a spel; but ther's a fate in love,
I like him ne'r the worse.
Enter two Lords.
1 Lo.
Nothing but mariages, and triumph now.
Val.
What new access of joy, makes [...] Lord,
So pleasant?
1 Lo.
Ther's a Packet [...]
[Page 26]
Makes the King merry, we are all concernd in't?
Columbo hath given the enemy a great,
And glorious defeat, and is already
Preparing to march home.
Col.
He thriv'd the better for my prayers.
2 Lo.
You have been his great admirer, Madam.
1 Lo.
The King longs to see him.
Val.
This news exalts the Cardinal.
Enter Cardinal.
1 Lo.
He's here,
He appears with discontent, the Mariage
With Count D'Alvarez hath a bitter tast,
And not worn off his palat; but let us leave him.
Ladies.
We'l to the Dutchess.
Exeunt. manet Car.
Card.
He has not woon so much upon the Arragon
As he has lost at home, and his neglect
Of what my studies had contriv'd to adde
More luster to our Family by the access
Of the great Dutchess fortune, cools his triumph,
And makes me wild.
Enter Hernando.
Her.
My good Lord Cardinal.
Car.
You made complaint to th' King about your Ge­neral.
Her.
Not a complaint my Lord, I did but satisfie
Some questions o'the Kings.
Car.
You see he thrives
Without your personal valour, or advice,
Most grave and learned in the wars.
Her.
My Lord,
I Envy not his fortune.
Car.
'Tis above
Your Malice, and your noise not worth his anger,
'Tis barking gainst the moon.
Her.
More temper would
[Page 27]
Become that habit.
Car.
The Military thing would shew some spleen;
I'l blow an Army of such Wasps about
The world; go look your sting you left i'th' Camp, Sir.
Enter King, and Lords.
Her.
The King.
Exit.
This may be one day counted for.
K.
All things conspire my Lord to make you fortunate,
Your Nephews glory—
Car.
'Twas your cause and justice
Made him victorious, had he been so valiant
At home, he had had another conquest to
Invite and bid her welcome to new wars.
K.
You must be reconcil'd to providence, my Lord;
I heard you had a controvercy with
The Dutchess, I will have you friends.
Car.
I am not Angry.
K.
For my sake then you shall be pleas'd,
And with me grace the Mariage;
A Churchman must shew Charity, and shine
With first example, she's a woman.
Car.
You shall prescribe in all things; Sir, you cannot
Accuse my love, if I still wish my Nephew
Had been so happy to be constant to
Your own, and my election; yet my brain
Cannot reach how this comes about; I know
My Nephew lov'd her with a near affection.
Enter Hernando.
K.
He'l give you fair account at his return.
Colonel, your Letters may be spar'd, the General
Has finish'd, and is coming home.
Her.
I am glad on't, sir; my good Lord Cardinal
'Tis not impossible but some man provok'd,
May have a precious mind to cut your throat.
Car.
You shall command me Noble Colonel;
I know you wo'not fail to be at th'wedding.
Her.
'Tis not Columbo that is maried Sir.
Car.
Go teach the postures of the Pike and Musket,
Then dril your Mi [...]midons into a ditch,
Where sterve, and stink in pickle, you shall find
Me reasonable, you see the King expects me.
Her.
So does the Devill; some desperate hand
May help you on your journey.
Exeunt.
Enter Secretary and Servants.
Sec.

Here this, I this will fit your part: you shall wear Slashes, because you are a Souldier; here's for the blue mute.

1

This doublet will never fit me, Pox ont', are these Breeches good enough for a Prince too? Pedro playes but a Lord, and he has two laces more in a seam.

Sec.

You must consider Pedro is a foolish Lord, he may wear what lace he please.

2

Does my beard fit my cloathes well Gentlemen?

Sec

Pox o'your beard.

3

That will fright away the hair.

1

This fellow plays but a mute, & he is so troublesome, and talks.

3

Mr. Secretary might have let Iaques play the soldier, He has a black patch already.

2

By your favour Mr. Secretary, I was ask'd who writ this play for us.

Sec.

For u [...]? why art thou any more than a blew mute?

2

And by my troth, I said, I thought it was all your own.

Sec.

Away you Coxcomb.

4

Do'st think he has no more wit then to write a Co­medy? my Ladies Chaplain made the Play, though he is content for the honour and trouble of the business, to be seen in't.

Enter 5th. Servant.
5

Did any body see my head Gentlemen 'twas here but now? I shall have never a head to play my part in.

Sec.

Is thy head gone? 'tis well thy part was not in't, Look, look about, has not Iaques it?

4

I his head? two'not come on upon my shoulders.

Sec.

Make hast Gentlemen I'l see whether the King has sup'd; Look every man to his wardrop and his part.

Exit.
2

Is he gone? in my mind a masque had been fitter for a mariage.

4

Why mute? there was no time for't, and the scenes Are troublesome.

2

Half a score Deal tack'd together in the clouds, what's that? a Throne to come down and dance; all the properties have been paid forty times over, and are in the Court stock, but the Secretary must have a play to shew his wit.

4

Did not I tell thee twas the Chaplains? hold your tongue Mute.

1

Under the Rose and would this cloth of Silver dou­blet might never come off agen, if there be any more plot then you see in the back of my hand.

2

You talk of a plot, I'l not give this for the best Poets plot in the world and if it be not well carryed.

4

Welll said Mnte.

3

Ha, ha; Pedro since he put on his doublet, has repea­ted but three lines, and he has broke five butt ons.

2

I know not but by this false beard, and here's hair e­nough to hang a reasonable honest man, I do not re­member to say a strong line indeed in the whole Co­medy; but when the Chambermaid kisses the Cap­tain.

3

Excellent mute.

Enter another Servant.
5

They have almost sup'd, and I cannot find my head yet.

4

play in thine own.

5

Thank you for that, so I may have it made a proper­ty, if I have not a head found me, let Mr. Secretary play my part himself without it.

Enter Secretary.
Sec.

Are you all ready my Masters? the King is coming through the Gallery, are the women drest?

1

Rogero wants a head.

Sec.

Here with a pox to you, take mine, you a player? You a puppy-dog is the Musick ready?

Enter Gentleman-Vsher.
Gent.

Gentlemen, it is my Ladies pleasure that you expect till she call for you, there are a company of Ca­valiers in gallant Equipage newly alighted, have offer'd to present their Revels in honour of this Hymen; and 'tis her Graces command, that you be silent till their Enter­tainment be over.

1

Gentlemen?

2

Affronted?

5

Mr. Secretary, ther's your head again; a man's a man; have I broken my sleep to study fifteen lines for an Ambassador, and after that a Constable, and is it come to this?

Sec.

Patience Gentlemen, be not so hot, tis but de­fer'd, and the play may do well enough cold.

4

If it be not presented, the Chaplain will have the greatest loss, he loses his wits.

Hoboies.
Sec.

This Musick speaks the King upon entrance; retire, retire, and grumble not.

Excunt.
Enter King, Cardinal, Alvarez, Dutchess, Celinda, Va­leria, Placentia, Lords, Hernando; (they being set) Enter Celumbo, and five more in rich habits Visarded; between every two a torch bearer: They Dance, and after beckon to Alvarez as desirous to speak with him.
Alv.
With me!
They Embrace and whisper
K.
Do you know the Masquers Madam?
Dut.
Not I Sir.
Car.
Ther's one, but that my Nephew is abroad,
And has more soul than thus to Jyg upon
Their Hymenrall night, I should suspect
'Twere he.
The Mas quers lead in Alvarez.
Dut.
Wher's my Lord D' Alvarez?
Recorders.
K.
Call in the Bridegroom.
Enter Columbo, four Masquers, bring in Alvarez dead, in one of their habits, and having laid him down, Excunt.
Dut.
What Mistery is this?
Car.
We want the Bridegroom still.
K.
Where is Alvarez
Columbo points to the body, they an­vizard it, & find Alvar. bleeding.
Dut.
Oh 'tis my Lord hee's murder'd.
K.
Who durst commit this horrid act?
Col.
I Sir.
K.
Columbo? ha!
Col.
Yes; Columbo that dares stay
To justifie that act.
Her.
Most barbarous.
Dut.
Oh my dearest Lord!
K.
Our guard seize on them all, this sight doth snake
All that is man within me; poor Alvarez
Is this thy wedding day?
Enter Guard.
Dut.
If you do think there is a heaven or pains,
To punish such black crimes i'th' other world,
[Page 32]
Let me have swift, and such exemplar justice
As shall become this great assasinate,
You will take off our faith else, and if here
Such innocence must bleed, and you look on,
Poor men that call you Gods on earth, will doubt
To obey your Laws, nay practise to be Devils,
As fearing if such monstrous sins go on
The Saints will not be safe in Heaven.
K.
You shall,
You shall have justice.
Car.
Now to come off were brave.
Enter Servant.
Ser.
The Masquers, Sir, are fled, their horse prepar'd
At gate expected to receive 'em, where
They quickly mounted, coming so like friends
None could suspect their hast, which is secur'd
By advantage of the night.
Col.
I answer for 'em all, 'tis stake enough
For many lives, but if that poniard
Had voice, it would convince they were but all
Spectators of my act; and now if you
Will give your judgments leave, though at the first
Face of this object your cool bloods were frighted,
I can excuse this deed and call it Justice;
An act, your honours, and your office Sir,
Is bound to build a Law upon, for others
To Imitate; I have but took his life,
And punish'd her with mercy, who had both
Conspir'd to kill the soul of all my fame
Read there,—and read an injury as deep
In my dishpnour, as the Devill knew
A Woman had capacity or malice
To execute read there, how you were cozen'd Sir,
Your power affronted, and my faith, her smiles
A jugling witchcraft to betray and make
My love her horse to stalk withall, and catch
Her curled Minion.
Car.
Is it possible
The Dutchess could dissemble so, and forfeit
Her modesty with you, and to us all?
Yet I must pity her; my Nephew has
Been too severe, though this affront would call
A dying man from prayers, and turn him Tiger,
There being nothing dearer than our fame,
Which, If a common man, whose blood has no
Ingredient of honour, labour to
Preserve, a Souldier (by his nearest tye
To glory) is above all others, bound
To vindicate; and yet it might have been less bloody.
Her.
Charitable Devill!
K. Reads.

I Pray, my Lord, release under your hand, what you dare challenge in my love or person, as a just for­feit to my self, this act will speak you honorable to my thoughts, and when you have conquered thus your self, you may proceed to many victories, and after, with safety of your famit visit again

The lost Rosaura.
To this your Answer was a free resign?
Col.
Flatter'd with great opinion of her faith,
And my desert of her (with thought that she,
Who seem'd to weep and chide my easie will
To part with her, could not be guilty of
A treason, or Apostacy so soon,
But rather meant this a device to make
Me expedite the affairs of War) I sent
That paper, which her wickedness not justice,
Applied (what I meant tryall) her divorce;
I lov'd her so, I dare call heaven to witness
I knew not whether I lov'd most; while she,
With him, whose crimson penitence I provok'd,
Conspir'd my everlasting infamy;
Examine but the circumstance.
Car.
'Tis clear,
This Match was made at home before she sent
That cunning writ, in hope to take him off,
As knowing his impatient Soul would scorn
To own a blessing came on crutches to him;
It was not well to raise his expectation,
(Had you, Sir, no affront) to ruine him
With so much scandall and contempt.
K.
We have
Too plentifull a circumstance to accuse
You Madam, as the cause of your own sorrows,
But not without an accessary, more
Than young Alvarez.
Car.
Any other instrument?
K.
Yes I am guilty, with her self, and Don
Columbo, though our acts look'd severall waies,
That thought a lover might so soon be ransom'd;
And did exceed the office of a King
To exercise dominion over hearts,
That owe to the prerogative of heaven
Their choice, or Separation; you must therefore,
When you do kneel for Justice, and Revenge,
Madam, consider me a laterall agent
In poor Alvarez Tragedy.
1 Lo.
It was your love to Don Columbo Sir.
Her.
So, so; the King is charm'd; do you observe,
How to acquit Columbo, he would draw
Himself into the plot; Heaven, is this Justice?
Car.
Your Judgment is divine in this.
K.
And yet,
Columbo cannot be secure, and we
Just in his pardon, that durst make so great,
And insolent a breach of Law and Duty.
2 Lo.
Ha, Will he turn agen?
K.
And should we leave
This guilt of blood to Heaven, which cries, and strikes,
[Page 35]
With loud appeals the palace of eternity,
Yet here is more to charge Columbo, than
Alvarez blood, and bids me punish it,
Or be no King.
Her.
'Tis come about my Lords.
K.
And If I should forgive
His timeless death, I cannot the offence,
That with such boldness struck at me. Has my
Indulgence to your merits which are great
Made me so cheap, your rage could meet, no time
Nor place for your revenge, but where my eys
Must be affrighted, and affronted with
The bloody execution? This contempt
Of Majesty transcends my power to pardon,
And you shall feel my anger Sir.
Her.
Thou shalt have one short prayer more for that.
Col.
Have I i'th' progress of my life
No actions to plead me up deserving,
Against this ceremony?
Car.
Contain your self.
Col.
I must be dumb then; where is honour?
And gratitude of Kings, when they forget
Whose hand secur'd their greatness? take my head off,
Examine then which of your silken Lords,
As I have done, will throw himself on dangers;
Like to a floting Iland move in blood;
And where your great desence calls him to stand
A Bullwark, upon his hold brest to take
In death, that you may live: but Souldiers are
Your valiant fools, whom when your own securities
Are bleeding you can cherish, but when once
Your state and nerves are knit, not thinking when
To use their surgery again, you cast
Them off, and let them hang in dusty armories,
Or make it death to ask for pay.
K.
No more,
[Page 36]
We thought to have put your victory and merits
In ballance with Alvarez death, which while
Our mercy was to Iudge, had been your safety;
But the affront to us, made greater by
This boldness to upbraid our royall bounty,
Shall tame or make you nothing.
Lor.
Excellent.
Her.
The Cardinal is not pleas'd.
Car.
Humble your self
To th' King.
Col.
And beg my life? let cowards do't
That dare not dy, I'l rather have no head
Than owe it to his Charity.
K.
To th' Castle with him.
Madam, I leave you to your grief, and what
The King can recompence to your tears, or honor
Of your dead Lord, expect.
Dut.
This shews like Iustice.
Exeunt.

ACT IV.

Enter two Lords, Hernando.
1 Lord.
THis is the age of wonders.
2 Lo.
Wonderous mischiefs.
Her.
Among those guards which some call Tutelar Angels,
Whose office is to govern Provinces,
Is there not one will undertake Navarre?
Hath heaven forsook us quite?
1
Columbo at large?
2
And grac'd now more than ever.
1
He was not pardon'd,
That word was prejudiciall to his fame.
Her.
But as the murder done had been a dream
Vanish'd to memory, he's courted as
Preserver of his Country; with what chains
Of Magick does this Cardinal hold the King?
2
What will you say my Lord if they inchant
The Dutchess now; and by some impudent art,
Advance a Mariage to Columbo yet?
Her.
Say? I'l say no woman can be sav'd, nor is't
Fit, indeed, any should pretend to Heaven
After one such impiety in their sex,
And yet my faith has been so stager'd, since
The King restor'd Columbo, I'l be now
Of no Religion.
1
'Tis not possible
She can forgive the murder, I observ'd
Her tears.
Her.
Why so did I, my Lord,
And if they be not honest, 'tis to be
Half damn'd to look upon a woman weeping.
When do you think the Cardinal said his prayers?
2
I know not.
Her.
Heaven forgive my want of charity
But if I were to kill him, he should have
No time to pray, his life could be no sacrifice,
Unless his soul went too.
1
That were too much.
Her.
When you mean to dispatch him, you may give
Time for Confession, they have injur'd me
After another rate.
2
You are too passionate Cozen.
Enter Columbo, Colonels, Alfonso, Courtiers, (they pass over the Stage.)
Her.
How the gay men do flutter to congratulate
His Goal delivery? ther's one honest man,
What pity 'tis a gallant fellow should
[Page 38]
Depend on knaves for his preferment.
1
Except this cruelty upon Alvarez,
Columbo has no mighty stain upon him;
But for his Uncle—
Her.
If I had a Son
Of twelve years old, that would not fight with him,
And stake his soul against his Cardinals Cap,
I would dis-inherit him; Time has took a lease
But for three lives I hope, a fourth may see
Honesty walk without a crutch.
2
This is
But Air and Wildness.
Her.
I'l see the Dutchess,
You may do well to comfort her,
1
We must attend the King.
Her.
your pleasures.
Exit Her.
Enter King and Cardinal.
1
A Man of a brave soul.
2
The less his safety;
The King and Cardinal in consult.
K.
Commend us to the Dutchess, and imploy
What language you think fit, and powerfull
To reconcile her to some peace. My Lords.
Car.
Sir, I possess all for your sacred uses.
Exeunt Severally.
Enter Secretary and Celinda.
Sec.
Madam, you are the welcom'st Lady living.
Cel.
To whom, Mr. Secretary?
Sec.
If you have mercy
To pardon so much boldness, I durst say,
To me—I am a Gentleman.
Cel.
And handsome.
Sec.
But my Lady has much wanted you.
Cel.
Why Mr. Secretary?
Sec.
You are the prettiest,
Cel.
So.
Sec.
The witiest,
Cel.
So.
Sec.
The merriest Lady i'th' Court.
Cel.
And I was wish'd to make the Dutchess pleasant.
Sec.
She never had so deep a cause of sorrow,
Her Chamber's but a Coffin of a larger
Volume, wherein she walks so like a Ghost,
T'would make you pale to see her.
Cel.
Tell her Grace I attend here.
Sec.
I shall most willingly.
A spirited Lady, would I had her in my closet,
She is excellent company among the Lords,
Sure she has an admirable treble—Madam.
Exit.
Cel.
I do suspect this fellow would be nibling
Like some whose narrow fortunes will not rise
To wear things when the inventions rare, and new,
But treading on the heel of pride, they hunt
The fashion when tis crippled, like fell tyrants;
I hope I am not old yet, I had the honour
To be saluted by our Cardinals Nephew
This Morning, ther's a man!
Enter Secretary.
Sec.
I have prevail'd,
Sweet Madam use what Eloquence you can
Upon her, and if ever I be usefull
To your Ladiships service, your least breath commands me.
Enter Dutchess.
Dut.
Madam, I come to ask you but one question,
If you were in my State, my state of grief,
I mean an exile from all happiness,
Of this world, and almost of heaven, for my
Affliction is finding out despair,
[Page 40]
What would you think of Don Columbo?
Cel.
Madam?
Dut.
Whose Bloody hand wrought all this misery?
Would you not weep as I do? and wish rather
An everlasting spring of tears to drown
Your sight, than let your eys be curst to see
The murderer agen? and glorious?
So careless of his sin, that he is made
Fit for new Parricide, even while his soul
Is purpled o'r, and reeks with innocent blood.
But do not, do not answer me, I know
You have so great a spirit, (which I want,
The horrour of his fact surprising all
My faculties) you would not let him live:
But I, poor I, must suffer more, ther's not
One little star in Heaven will look on me,
Unless to choose me out the mark, on whom
It may shoot down some angry influence.
Enter Placentia.
Pla.
Madam, her's Don Columbo says he must
Speak with your Grace.
Dut.
But he must not, I charge you.
None else wait? Is this well done,
To triumph in his Tyranny? speak Madam,
Speak but your conscience.
Enter Columbo, and Secretary.
Sec.
Sir, you must not see her.
Col.
Not see her? were she cabled up above
The search of Bullet, or of Fire, were she
Within her Grave, and that the toughest Mine
That ever nature teem'd and groand withall,
I would force some way to see her; do not fear
I come to Court you Madam, y'are not worth
The humblest of my kinder thoughts, I come
[Page 41]
To shew the man you have prokvo'd, and lost;
And tell you what remains of my revenge.
Live, but never presume again to marry,
I'l kill the next at th' Altar, and quench all
The smiling tapers with his blood; if after
You dare provoke the Priest, and heaven so much,
To take another, in thy bed I'l cut him from
Thy warm embracc, and throw his heart to Ravens.
Cel.
This will appear an unexampled cruelty.
Col.
Your pardon Madam, rage, and my revenge
Not perfect, took away my eys, you are
A noble Lady, this, not worth your ey-beam,
One of so slight a making, and so thin,
An Autumn leaf is of too great a value
To play, which shall be soonest lost i'th' Air;
Be pleas'd to own me by some name, in your
Assurance, I despise to be receiv'd
There, let her witness that I call
You Mistress; honour me to make these Pearls
Your carkanet.
Cel.
My Lord, you are too humble in your thoughts.
Col.
Ther's no vexation too great to punish her.
Exit.
Enter Secretary.
Sec.
Now Nadam?
Cel.
Away you saucy fellow; Madam, I
Must be excus'd, if I do think more honourably
Than you have cause of this great Lord.
Dut.
Why is not
All woman kind concern'd to hate what's impious?
Cel.
For my part—
Dut.
Antonio, is this a woman?
Sec.
I know not whether she be man or woman,
I should be nimble to find out the Experiment,
She look'd with less state, when Columbo came.
Dut.
Let me entreat your absence, I am cozen'd in her,
I took you for a modest, honest Lady.
Cel.
Madam, I scorn any accuser, and
Deducting the great title of a Dutchess,
I shall not need one grain of your dear honour
To make me full weight, if your Grace be jealous
I can remove.
Exit.
Sec.
She is gone.
Dut.
Prethee remove
My fears of her return,—she is not worth
Ex. Sec.
Considering, my anger's mounted higher;
He need not put in caution for my next
Marrage, Alvarez, I must come to thee,
Thy Virgin, Wife, and Widdow, but not till
I ha' paid those Tragick duties to thy Herse,
Become my piety and love, but how?
Who shall instruct a way?
Enter Placentia.
Pla.
Madam, Don
Hernando much desires to speak with you.
Dut.
Will not thy own discretion think I am
Unfit for visit.
Pla.
Please your Grace he brings
Something he says imports your ear, and love
Of the dead Lord Alvarez.
Dut.
Then admit him.
Enter Hernando.
Her.
I would speak, Madam, to your self.
Dut.
Your absence.
Her.
I know not how you Grace wil censure so
Much boldness, when you know the affairs I come for.
Dut.
My Servant has prepar'd me to receive it,
If it concern my dead Lord.
Her.
Can you name
[Page]
So much of your Alvarez in a breath
Without one word of your revenge? O Madam,
I come to chide you, and repent my great
Opinion of your virtue, that can walk,
And spend so many hours in naked Solitude,
As if you thought that no arrear were due
To his death, when you had paid his Funerall charges,
Made your eys red, and wept a handkercher;
I come to tell you that I saw him bleed,
I, that can challenge nothing in his name,
And honour, saw his murder'd body warm,
And panting with the labour of his spirits,
Till my amaz'd Soul shrunk and hid it self,
While barbarous Columbo grinning stood,
And mock'd the weeping wounds; it is too much
That you should keep your heart alive, so long
After this spectacle, and not revenge it.
Dut.
You do not know the business of my heart,
That censure me so rashly; yet I thank you,
And if you be Alvarez friend, dare tell
Your confidence, that I despise my life,
But know not how to use it in a service,
To speak me his revenger, this will need
No other proof, than that to you, who may
Be sent with cunning to betray me, I
Have made this bold confession, I so much
Desire to sacrifice to that hovering Ghost,
Columbo's life, that I am not ambitious
To keep my own two minutes after it.
Her.
If you will call me coward, which is equall
To think I am a Traytor, I forgive it,
For this brave resolution, which time
And all the Destinies must aid, I beg
That I may kiss your hand for this, and may
The soul of angry honour guide it.
Dut.
Whither?
Her.
To Don Columbo's heart.
Dut.
It is too weak I fear alone.
Her.
Alone? are you in earnest? why? will it not
Be a dishonour to your Justice, Madam,
Another arm should interpose? but that
It were a sawcy act to mingle with you,
I durst, nay I am bound in the revenge
Of him that's dead, (since the whole world has interest,
In every goodmans loss) to offer it;
Dare you command me, Madam?
Dut.
Not command,
But I should more than honour such a truth
In man, that durst against so mighty odds,
Appear Alvarez friend and mine; the Cardinal—
Her.
Is for the second course, Columbo must
Be first cut up, his Ghost must lead the dance.
Let him dy first.
Dut.
But how?
Her.
How? with a Sword, and if I undertake it,
I wo'not lose so much of my own honour,
To kill him basely.
Dut.
How shall I reward
This infinite service? 'tis not Modesty,
While now my husband groanes beneath his tomb,
And calls me to his marble bed, to promise
What this great act might well deserve, my self
If you survive the Victor, but if thus
Alvarez ashes be appeas'd it must
Deserve an honourable memory;
And though Columbo (as he had all power,
And grasp'd the fates) has vow'd to kill the man
That shall succeed Alvarez—
Her.
Tyranny.
Dut.
Yet if ever,
I entertain a thought of love hereafter,
Hernando from the world shall challenge it,
[Page 45]
Till when, my Prayers, and fortune, shall wait on you.
Her.
This is too mighty recompence.
Dut.
'Tis all just.
Her.
If I outlive Columbo I must not
Expect security at home.
Dut.
Thou canst
Not fly, where all my fortunes, and my love,
Shall not atttend to guard thee.
Her.
If I dye—
Dut.
Thy memory
Shall have a shrine, the next within my heart
To my Alvarez.
Her.
Once again your hand,
Your cause is so religious you need
Not strengthen it with your prayers, trust it to me.
Enter Placentia, and Cardinal.
Pla.
Madam, the Cardinal.
Dut.
Will you appear?
Her.
And he had all the horror of the Devil
In's face, I would not balk him.
He stares upon the Cardinal in his Exit.
Car.
What makes Hernando here? I do not like
They should consult, I'l take no note; the King
Fairly salutes your Grace, by whose command
I am to tell you, though his will and actions
Illimited, stoop not to satisfie
The Vulgar inquisition, he is
Yet willing to retain a just opinion,
With those that are plac'd neer him, and although
You look with Natures ey upon your self,
Which needs no perspective to reach, nor art
Of any optick to make greater, what
Your narrow sense applies an injury,
(Our selves still nearest to our selves) but ther's
[Page 46]
Another ey that looks abroad and walks
In search of reason, and the weight of things,
With which if you look on him, you will find
His pardon to Columbo cannot be
So much against his justice, as your erring
Faith would perswade your anger.
Dut.
Good my Lord,
Your phrase has too much landschape and I cannot
Distinguish at this distance you present
The figure perfect, but indeed my eys
May pray your Lordship find excuse, for tears
Have almost made them blind.
Car.
Fair, peace restore 'em!
To bring the object nearer, the King says,
He could not be severe to Don Columbo
Without injustice to his other merits,
Which call more loud for their reward and honour,
Than you for your revenge; the Kingdom made
Happy by those; you only by the last
Uunfortunate, nor was it rationall,
I speak the Kings own Language, he should dy
For taking one mans breath, without whose valour
None now had been alive, without dishonour.
Dut.
In my poor understanding, 'tis the Crown
Of virtue to proceed in its own tract,
Not deviate from honour, if you acquit
A man of murder, 'cause he has done brave
Things in the War, you will bring down his valour
To a crime, nay to a baud, if it secure
A rape, and but teach those that deserve well
To sin with greater licence; but dispute
Is now too late, my Lord, 'tis done, and you,
By the good King, in tender of my sorrows,
Sent to perswade me, 'tis unreasonable
That Justice should repair me.
Car.
You mistake,
[Page 47]
For if Columbo's death could make Alvarez
Live, the King had given him up to Law
Your bleeding Sacrifice; but when his life
Was but another treasure thrown away,
To obey a clamorous Statute, it was wisdom
To himself and common safety to take off
This killing edge of Law, and keep Columbo
To recompence the crime by noble acts,
And sorrow, that in time might draw your pity.
Dut.
This is a greater tyranny, than that
Columbo exercis'd, he kill'd my Lord,
And you not have the charity to let
Me think it worth a punishment,
Car.
To that
In my own name, I answer; I condemn
And urge the blody guilt against my Nephew,
'Twas violent, and cruell, a black deed,
A deed whose memory doth make me shudder,
An act that did betray a tyranous nature,
Which he took up in War, the school of vengeance;
And though the Kings compassion spare him here,
Unless his heart Weep it self out in penitent tears.
Dut.
This sounds
As you were now a good man.
Car.
Does your Grace
Think I have conscience to allow the murder?
Although when it was done, I did obey
The stream of nature, as he was my Kinsman,
To plead he might not pay his forfeit life,
Could I do less for one so near my bloud?
Consider Madam, and be charitable,
Let not this wild injustice, make me lose
The character I bear, and reverend habit.
To make you full acquainted with my innocence,
I challenge here my soul, and heaven to witness
[Page 48]
If I had any thought, or knowledge with
My nephews plot, or person, when he came
Under the smooth pretence of friend to violate
Your hospitable laws, and do that act
Whose frequent mention drawes this tear, a whirlwind
Suatch me to endless flames.
Dut.
I must believe,
And ask your Graces pardon, I confess
I ha' not lov'd you since Alvarez death,
Though we were recontil'd.
Car.
I do not blame
Your Jealousie, nor any zeal you had
To prosecute revenge against me, Madam,
As I then stood suspected, nor can yet
Implore your mercy to Columbo, all
I have to say is to retain my first
Opinion and credit with your Grace,
Which you may think I urge not out of fear
Or ends upon you, (since, I thank the King,
I stand firm on the base of royall favour)
But for your own sake, and to shew I have
Compassion of your sufferings.
Dut.
You have cleer'd
A doubt my Lord, and by this fair remonstrance,
Given my sorrow so much truce, to think
That we may meet agen, and yet be friends.
But be not angry, if I still remember
By whom Alvarez dyed, and weep, and wake
Another Iustice with my prayers,
Car.
All thoughts
That may advance a better peace, dwell with you.
Exit.
Dut.
How would this cozening Statesman bribe my Faith
With flatteries to think him innocent?
No, if his Nephew dy, this Cardinal must not
Be long-liv'd; all the prayers of a wrong'd Widow
[Page 49]
Make firm Hernando's Sword, and my own hand
Shall have some glory in the next revenge;
I will pretend my brain with grief distracted,
It may gain easy credit, and beside
The taking off examination
For great Columbo's death, it makes what act
I do in that believ'd want of my reason,
Appear no crime, but my defence; look down
Soul of my Lord, from thy eternall shade,
And unto all thy blest companions boast,
Thy Dutchess busie to revenge thy Ghost.
Exit.
Enter Columbo, Hernando, Alfonso, Colonel.
Col.
Hernando, now I love thee, and do half
Repent the affront my passion threw upon thee.
Her.
You wo'not be too prodigall o' your penitence.
Colu.
This makes good thy Nobility of birth,
Thou mayst be worth my anger and my sword,
If thou dost execute as daringly,
As thou provok'st a quarrell, I did think
Thy soul a starveling, or a sleep.
Her.
You'l find it
Active enough to keep your spirit waking,
Which to exasperate, for yet I think
It is not high enough to meet my rage—
D'ee smile?
Col.
This noise is worth it, Gentlemen;
I'm sorry this great Soldier has engag'd
Your travel, all his business is to talk.
Her.
A little of your Lordships patience,
You shall have other sport, and swords that will
Be as nimble 'bout your heart, as you can wish,
'Tis pity more than our two single lives,
Should be at stake.
Colon.
Make that no scruple Sir.
Her.
To him then that survives if fate allow
[Page]
That difference, I speak that he may tell
The World, I came not hither on slight anger,
But to revenge my honour stain'd, and trampled on
By this proud man, when General, he commanded
My absence from the field.
Colu.
I do remember,
And I'l give your Soul now a discharge.
Her.
I come to meet it, if your courage be so fortunate.
But there is more than my own injury
You must account for Sir, if my sword prosper,
Whose point and every edge is made more keen
With young Alvarez blood, in which I had
A Noble interest; does not that sin benum
Thy Arteries, and turn the guilty flowings,
To trembling gelly in thy veins? canst hear
Me name that murder, and thy spirits not
Struck into air, as thou wert shot by some
Engin from heaven?
Col.
You are the Dutchess Champion;
Thou hast given me a quarrell now; I grieve
It is determin'd all must fight, and I
Shall lose much honour in his fall.
Her.
That Dutchess
(Whom but to mention with thy breath, is sacrilege)
An Orphan of thy making, and condemn'd
By thee to eternall solitude, I come
To vindicate, and while I am killing thee,
By virtue of her prayers sent up for justice,
At the same time, in heaven I am pardon'd for't.
Col.
I cannot hear the Bravo.
Her.
Two words more
And take your chance, before you all I must
Pronounce that noble Lady, without knowledge,
Or thought of what I undertake for her.
Poor soul, Shees now at her Devotions,
Busie with heaven, and wearing out the earth
[Page 51]
With her stiff Knees, and bribing her good Angel
With treasures of her eys, to tell her Lord
How much she longs to see him; my attempt
Needs no commission from her, were I
A stranger in Navarre, the inborn right
Of every Gentleman to Alvarez loss,
Is reason to engage their swords, and lives,
Against the common enemy of virtue.
Colu.
Now have you finish'd? I have an instrument
Shall cure this noise, and fly up to thy tongue,
To murder all thy words.
Her.
One little knot
Of phlegm that clogs my stomach, and I ba' done;
You have an Uncle call'd a Cardinal
Would he were lurking now about thy heart,
That the same wounds might reach you both, and send
Your reeling souls together. Now have at you.
Alph.
We must not Sir be idle.
They fight, Colum­bo's Second siain.
Her.
What think you now of praying?
Colu.
Time enough;
He kills Hernando's Second.
Commend me to my friend; the scales are even,
I would be mercifull, and give you time,
Now to consider of the other World,
You'l find your soul benighted presently.
Her.
I'l find my way i'th' dark.
They fight, and close, Columbo gets both the swords, and Hernando takes up the seconds Weapon.
Colu
A stumble's dangerous.
Now ask thy life—Ha?
Her.
I despise to wear it,
A gift from any but the first bestower.
Col.
I scorn a base advantage—ha.
Her.
I am now
Out of your debt.
Columbo throwes away one of the swords. They fight, Hernando wounds Columbo.
Col.
Th'ast don't, and I forgive thee.
Give me thy hand, when shall we meet again?
Her.
Never, I hope.
Col.
I feel life ebb apace, yet I'l look upwards,
And shew my face to heaven.
Her.
The matters done,
I must not stay to bury him.
Exit.

ACT V.

Enter two Lords.
1 Lord.
COlumbo's death doth much aflict the King.
2 Lo.
I thought the Cardinal would have lost his wits
At first, for's nephew, it drownes all the talk
Of the other that were slain.
1
We are friends.
I do suspect Hernando had some interest
And knew how their wounds came.
2
His flight confirms it,
For whom the Cardinal has spread his nets.
1
He is not so weak to trust himself at home
To his Enemies gripe.
2
All strikes not me so much,
As that the Dutchess, most oppressed Lady,
Should be distracted, and before Columbo
Was slain.
1
But that the Cardinal should be made
Her Guardian, is to me above that wonder.
2
So it pleas'd the King, and she, with that small stock
Of reason left her, is so kind, and smooth
Upon him.
1
She's turn'd a child agen; a madness,
That would ha' made her brain and blood boil high
[Page 53]
In which distemper she might ha' wrought something.
2
Had been to purpose.
1
The Cardinal is cunning, and how e'r
His brow does smile, he does suspect Hernando
Took fire from her, and waits a time to punish it.
2
But what a subject of disgrace, and mirth,
Hath poor Celinda made herself by pride,
In her belief Columbo was her servant.
Her head hath stoop'd much since he died, and she
Almost ridiculous at Court.
Enter Cardinal, Antonelli, Servant.
1.
The Cardinal
Is come into the Garden, now—
Car.
Walk off,
It troubles me the Dutchess by her loss
Of brain is now beneath my great revenge,
She is not capable to feel my anger,
Which like to unregarded thunder spent
In woods, and lightning aim'd at senseless trees,
Must idly fall, and hurt her not, not to
That sense her guilt deserves a fatall stroke,
Without the knowledg for what crime to fright her,
When she takes leave, and make her tug with death,
Untill her soul sweat, is a Pidgeons torment,
And she is sent a babe to the other World,
Columbo's death will not be satisfied,
And I but wound her with a two edg'd feather;
I must do more, I have all opportunity,
(She by the King now made my charge) but she's
So much a turtle I shall lose by killing her,
Perhaps do her a pleasure, and preferment;
That must not be.
Enter Celinda with a Parchment.
Anto.
Is not this she, that would be thought to have been
[Page 54]
Columbo's Mistress? Madam, his grace is private,
And would not be disturb'd, you may displease him.
Cel.
What will your worship wager that he shall
Be pleas'd again before we part.
Ant.
I'l say this Diamond Madam, 'gainst a kiss,
And trust your self to keep the stakes.
Cel.
'Tis done.
Ant.
I have long had an appetite to this Lady,
But the Lords keep her up so high— this toy
May bring her on.
Car.
This interruption tasts not of good manners.
Cel.
But where necessity my Lord compells,
The boldness may meet pardon, and when you
Have found my purpose, I may less appear
Unmannerly.
Car.
To th' business.
Cel.
It did please
Your Nephew, Sir, before his death to credit me
With so much honorable favour, I
Am come to tender to his neer'st of blood,
Your self, what does remain a debt to him.
Not to delay your Grace with circumstance,
That deed, if you accept, makes you my heir
Of no contemptible estate— this way
He reads.
Is only left to ty up scurrile tongues,
And saucy men, that since Columbo's death
Venture to Libell on my pride, and folly;
His greatness, and this gift which I enjoy,
Still for my life, beyond which term; a Kingdom's,
Nothing, will curb the giddy spleens of men
That live on impudent rime, and railing at
Each wandering fame they catch.
Car.
Madam, this bounty
Will bind my gratitude and care to serve you.
Cel.
I am your Graces Servant.
Car.
Antonelli,
Whisper.
[Page 55]
And when this noble Lady visits me
Let her not wait.
Cel.
What think you my Officious, Sir; his grace
Is pleas'd, you may conjecture? I may keep
Your Gem, the kiss was never yours.
Ant.
Sweet Madam—
Cel.
Talk if you dare, you know I must not wait,
And so farewell for this time.
Car.
'Tis in my brain already, and it formes
Apace, good, excellent revenge, and pleasant!
She's now within my talons, 'tis too cheap
A satisfaction for Columbo's death,
Only to kill her by soft charm or force,
I'l rifle first her darling chastity,
'Twil be after time enough to poyson her,
And she to th' world be thought her own destroyer.
As I will frame the circumstance, this night
All may be finished; for the Colonel,
Her agent in my Nephewes death (whom I
Disturb'd at Counsell with her) I may reach him
Hereafter, and be Master of his fate.
We starve our Conscience when we thrive in State.
Exeunt.
Enter Secretary, and Placentia.
Sec.
Placentia, We two are only left
Of my Ladies Servants, let us be true
To her, and one another, and be sure
When we are at prayers, to curse the Cardinal.
Pla.
I pity my sweet Lady.
Sec.
I pity her too, but am a little angry;
She might have found another time to lose
Her wits.
Pla.
That I were a man?
Sec.
What would'st thou do Placentia?
la.
I would revenge my Lady.
Sec.
'Tis better being a woman, thou mayst do
Things that may prosper better, and the fruit
Be thy own another day.
Pla.
Your wit still loves
To play the wanton.
Sec.
'Tis a sad time Placentia,
Some pleasure would do well, the truth is, I
Am weary of my life, and I would have
One fit of mirth before I leave the world.
Pla.
Do not you blush to talk thus wildly?
Sec.
'Tis good manners
To be a little mad after my Lady;
But I ha' done; who is with her now?
Pla.
Madam Valeria.
Sec.
Not Celinda? Ther's a Lady for my humour,
A pretty book of flesh and blood, and well
Bound up, in a fair letter too; would I
Had her with all the Errata.
Pla.
She has not
An honorable Fame.
Sec.
Her Fame? that's nothing,
A littie stain, her wealth will fe [...]ch again
The colour, and bring honour into her cheeks
As fresh; if she were mine, and I had her
Exchequer. I know the way to make her honest,
Honest to th' touch, the test, and the last tryall.
Pla.
How Prethee?
Sec.
Why, first I would marry her, that's a verb Materiall;
Then I would Print her with an Index.
Expurgatorius, a table drawn
Of her Court Heresies, and when she's read
Cum Privilegio, who dares call her Whore?
Pla.
I'l leave you, if you talk thus.
Sec.
I ha' done,
Placentia,
thou may'st be better company
After another progress; and now tell me,
[Page 57]
Did'st ever hear of such a patient madness
As my Lady is possest with? she has rav'd
But twice; and she would fright the Cardinall,
Or at a supper if she did but poyson him,
It were a phrensy I could bear withall;
She calls him her dear Governour—
Enter Hernando disguised having a Letter.
Pla.
Who is this?
Her.
Her Secretary? Sir,
Here is a Letter if it may have so
Much happiness to kiss her Graces hand.
Sec.
From whom?
Her.
That's not in your Commission Sir
To ask, or mine to satisfie, she will want
No understanding when she reads.
Sec.
Alas,
Under your favour Sir, you are mistaken,
Her Grace did never more want understanding.
Her.
How?
Sec.
have you not heard, her scull is broken Sir
And many pieces taken out, she's mad.
Her.
The sad fame of her distraction
Has two much truth it seems.
Pla.
If please you Sir
To expect a while, I will present the Letter.
Her.
Pray do
Exit Placen.
How long has she been thus Distemper'd Sir?
Sec.
Before the Cardinal came to govern here,
Who for that reason by the King was made
Her Guardian, we are now at his devotion.
Her.
A Lamb given up to a Tyger! may diseases
Soon eat him through his heart!
Sec.
Your pardon Sir,
I love that voice, I know it too, a little,
Are not you? be not angry noble Sir,
[Page 58]
I can with ease be ignorant agen,
And think you are another man, but if
You be that valiant Gentleman they call —
Her.
Whom? What?
Sec.
That kill'd, I would not name him if I thought
You were not pleas'd to be that very Gentleman.
Her.
Am I betraid?
Sec.
The Devil sha'not
Betray you here, kill me, and I will take
My death you are the Noble Colonel;
We are all bound to you for the Generals death,
Valiant Hernando? when my Lady knows
You are here, I hope 'twil fetch her wits agen,
But do not talk too loud, we are not all
Honest i'th' house, some are the Cardinals creatures.
Her.
Thou wert faithfull to thy Lady, I am glad
'Tis night, but tell me how the Churchman uses
The Dutchess?
Enter Antonelli.
Sec.
He carries Angels in his tongue, and face, but I
Suspect his heart, this is one of his spawns.
Signior Antonelli.
Ant.
Honest Antonio.
Sec.
And how, and how—a friend of mine, where is
The Cardinals Grace?
Her.
That will be never answered.
Aut.
He means to sup here with the Dutchess.
Sec.
Will he?
Ant.
We'l have the charming bottles at my chamber,
Bring that Gentleman, we'l be mighty merry.
Her.
I may disturb your jollity.
Ant.
Farewell sweet—
Sec.
Dear Antonelli— a round Pox confound you.
This is Court Retorick at the back stairs.
Enter Placentia.
Pla.
Do you know this Gentleman?
Sec.
Not I.
Pla.
My Lady presently dismist Valeria,
And bad me bring him to her bed-chamber.
Sec.
The Gentleman has an honest face.
Pla.
Her words fell from her with some evenness & joy.
Her Grace desires your presence.
Her.
I'l attend her.
Exit.
Sec.
I would this Soldier had the Cardinal
Upon a promontory, with what a spring
The Churchman would leap down, it were a spectacle
Most rare to see him topple from the precipice,
And souse in the salt water with a noise
To stun the fishes; and if he fell into
A net, what wonder would the simple Sea-guls
Have, to draw up the o'rgrown Lobster,
So ready boild? he shall have my good wishes,
This Colonels coming may be lucky. I
Will be sure none shall interrupt 'em.
Enter Celinda.
Cel.
Is her Grace at opportunity?
Sec.
No sweet Madam,
She is a sleep, her Gentlewoman says.
Cel.
My business is but visit, I'l expect.
Sec.
That must not be, although I like your company.
Cel.
You are grown rich Mr. Secretary.
Sec.
I Madam, Alas!
Cel.
I hear you are upon another purchase.
Sec.
I upon a purchase?
Cel.
If you want any sum —
Sec.
If I could purchase your sweet favour Madam?
Cel.
You shall command me, and my fortune Sir.
Sec.
How's this?
Cel.
I have observ'd you Sir a staid,
And prudent Gentleman— and I shall want—
Sec.
Not me?
Cel.
A Father for some Infant; he has credit
Aside.
Ith' world; I am not the first cast Lady
Has married a Secretary.
Sec.
Shall I wait upon you?
Cel.
Whither?
Sec.
Any whither.
Cel.
I may chance lead you then—
Sec.
I shall be honour'd to obey, my blood
Is up, and in this humour I'm for any thing.
Cel.
Well Sir, I'l try your Manhood.
Sec.
'Tis my happiness,
You cannot please me better.
Cel.
This was struck
I'th' opportunity.
Sec.
I am made for ever.
Enter Hernando, and Dutchess.
Her.
Dear Madam, do not weep.
Dut.
Y'are very welcome,
I ha done, I wo'not shed a tear more
Till I meet Alvarez, then I'l weep for joy;
He was a fine young Gentleman, and sung sweetly,
And you had heard him but the night before
We were married, you would ha' sworn he had been
A Swan, and sung his own sad Epitaph;
But we'l talk o'the Cardinal.
Her.
Would his death
Might ransom your fair sense, he should not live
To triumph in the loss, beshrow my manhood;
But I begin to melt.
Dut.
I pray Sir tell me,
For I can understand, although they say
I have lost my wits; but they are safe enough,
[Page 61]
And I shall have 'em when the Cardinal dyes;
Who had a Letter from his Nephew too
Since he was slain.
Her.
From whence?
Dut.
I know not where he is? but in some Bower
Within a Garden he is making Chaplets,
And means to send me one, but I'l not take it,
I have flowers enough I thank him while I live.
Her.
But do you love your Governour?
Dut.
Yes, but I'l never marry him, I am promis'd
Already.
Her.
To whom Madam?
Dut.
Do not you
Blush when you ask me that, must not you be
My Husband? I know why, but that's a secret;
Indeed if you believe me, I do love
No man alive so well as you, the Cardinal
Shall never know't, hee'l kill us both, and yet
He says he loves me dearly, and has promis'd
To make me well again, but I'm afraid,
One time or other he will give me poyson.
Her.
Prevent him Madam, and take nothing from him.
Dut.
Why, do you think 'twil hurt me?
Her.
It will kill you.
Dut.
I shall but dye, and meet my dear lov'd Lord,
Whom when I have kist, I'l come again, and work
A bracelet of my hair for you to carry him,
When you are going to heaven, the poesy shall
Be my own name, in little tears, that I
Will weep next winter, which congeal'd i'th' frost
Will shew like seed-Pearl, you'l deliver it?
I know he'l love, and wear it for my sake.
Her.
She is quite lost.
Dut.
I pray give me Sir, your pardon,
I know I talk not wisely, but if you had
The burthen of my sorrow, you would miss
[Page 62]
Sometimes your better reason; now l'm well,
What will you do when the Cardinal comes?
He must not see you for the world.
Her.
He sha'not,
I'l take my leave before he come.
Dut.
Nay stay,
I shall have no friend left me when you go,
He will but sup, he sha'not stay to ly wi' me,
I have the picture of my Lord abed,
Three are to much this weather.
Enter Plecentia.
Pla.
Madam, the Cardinal.
Her.
He shall sup with the Devil.
Dut.
I dare not stay,
The Red-cock will be angry, I'l come agen.
Exeunt.
Her.
This sorrow is no fable, now I find
My curiosity is sadly satisfied;
Ha? if the Dutchess in her stragled wits,
Let fall words to betray me to the Cardinal,
The Panther will not leap more fierce to meet
His prey, when a long want of food hath parch'd
His starved maw, than he to print his rage
And tear my heart-strings, every thing is fatall,
And yet she talk'd sometimes with chain of sense,
And said she lov'd me; ha, they come not yet;
I have a sword about me, and I left
My own security to visit death.
Yet I may pause a little, and consider
Which way does lead me to't most honorably;
Does not the Chamber that I walk in tremble?
What will become of her, and me, and all
The world in one small hour? I do not think
Ever to see the day agen, the wings
Of night spread o'r me like a sable Herse-cloath,
The Stars are all close mourners too; but I
Must not alone to the cold silent grave,
I must not; If thou canst Alvarez open
[Page 63]
That Ebon curtain, and behold the man,
When the worlds justice fails shall right thy ashes,
And feed their thirst with blood, thy Dutchess is
Almost a Ghost already; and doth wear
Her body like a useless upper garment,
The trim and fashion of it lost. Ha?
Enter Placentia.
Pla.
You need not doubt me, Sir, My Lady prays
You would not think it long, she in my ear,
Commanded me to tell you, that when last
She drank, she had happy wishes to your health.
Her.
And did the Cardinal pledge it?
Pla.
He was not
Invited to't, nor must he know you are here.
Her.
What do they talk of prethee?
Pla.
His Grace is very pleasant
A Lute is heard.
And kind to her, but her returns are after
The sad condition of her sense, sometimes unjoynted.
Her.
They have Musick.
Pla.
A Lute only,
His Grace prepard, they say, the best of Italy
That waits upon my Lord.
Her.
He thinks the Dutchess
Is stung with a Tarantula.
Pla.
Your pardon.
My duty is expected.
Her.
Gentle Lady.—a voice too?
Song within.
S. Come my Daphne, come away,
We do wast the Crystal day;
'Tis Strephon calls. Da What says my love?
S. Come follow to the Mirtle Grove,
Where Venus shall prepare
New Chaplets for thy hair.
D. Were I shut up within a Tree,
I'd rend my bark to follow thee.
S. My Shepherdess, make hast,
The minutes slide too fast:
D. In those cooler shades will I
Blind, as Cupid, kiss thine ey.
S. In thy bosome then I'l stay,
In such warm Snow who would not lose his way.
Chor.
WE'l laugh and leave the world behind,
And Gods themselves that see,
Shall envy thee, and me;
But never find
Such joys, when they embrace a Deity.
If at this distance I distinguish, 'tis not
Church musick, and the air's wanton, and no Anthem
Sung to't, but some strange Ode of love, and kisses,
What should this mean?— ha, he is coming hither,
I am betraid, he marches in her hand,
I'l trust a little more, mute as the Arras
My sword and I here.
He observes
Enter Cardival, Dutchess, Antonelli, and Attendants.
Car.
Wait you in the first Chamber, and let none
Presume to interrupt us.
Ex. Serv.
She is pleasant; now for some art to poyson all her inno­cence.
Dut.
I do not like the Cardinals humour, he
Little suspects what guest is in my Chamber.
Car.
Now Madam you are safe.
Dut.
How means your Lordship?
Car.
Safe in my Arms, sweet Dutchess.
Dut.
Do not hurt me.
Car.
Not for the treasures of the world, you are
My pretty charge, had I as many lives
As I have carefull thoughts, to do you service,
I should think all a happy forfeit to
Delight your Grace one minute; 'tis a heaven
To see you smile.
Dut.
What kindness call you this?
Car.
It cannot want a name while you preserve
So plentifull a sweetness, it is love.
Dut.
Of me? how shall I know't my Lord?
Car.
By this, and this, swift Messengers to whisper
Our hearts to one another.
Kisses.
Dut.
Pray do you come a wooing?
Car.
Yes sweet Madam,
You cannot be so cruell to deny me.
Dut.
What my Lord?
Car.
Another kiss.
Dut.
Can you
Dispense with this my Lord? Alas I fear
Aside.
Hernando is asleep, or vanish'd from me.
Car.
I have mock'd my blood into a flame, and what
My angry soul had form'd for my revenge,
Is now the object of my amorous sense,
I have took a strong inchantment from her lips,
And fear I shall forgive Columbo's death
If She consent to my embrace; come Madam.
Dut.
Whither my Lord?
Car.
But to your bed or couch,
Where if you will be kind, and but allow
Your self a knowledg, love whose shape and raptures
Wise Poets have but glorified in dreams,
Shall make your chamber his eternall Palace;
And with such active and essentiall streams
Of new delights glide o'r your bosome, you
Shall wonder to what unknown world you are
By some blest change translated; why d'e pause?
And look so wild? will you deny your Governour?
Dut.
How came you by that Cloven foot?
Car.
Your fancy
Would turn a traitour to your happiness;
I am your friend, you must be kind.
Dut.
Unhand me,
Or I'l cry out a rape.
Car.
You wo'not sure?
Dut.
I have been cozend with Hernando's shadow,
Here's none but heaven to hear me, help, a rape,
Car.
Are you so good at understanding then,
I must use other argument.
He forces her.
Her.
Go to, Cardinal.
Strikes him. Ex. Dut.
Car.
Hernando, Murder, Treason, help.
Her.
An army sha'not rescue thee, your blood
Is much inflam'd, I have brought a Lancet wi'me,
Shall open your hot veins, and cool your fever;
To vex thy parting Soul, it was the same
Engin that pinc'd Columbo's heart.
Car.
Help, Murder.
Enter Antonelli and Servants.
Anton.
Some ring the bell, 'twil raise the Court,
My Lord is murder'd, 'tis Hernando.
The bell rings.
Her.
I'l make you all some sport,—So, now we are even,
Where is the Dutchess, I would take my leave
Of her, and then bequeath my curse among you.
Her. salls.
Enter King, Dutchess, Valeria, Lords, Guard.
K.
How come these bloody objects?
Her.
With a trick my sword found out, I hope he's paid.
1 Lo
I hope so to; a Surgeon for my Lord Cardinal.
K.
Hernando?
Dut.
Iustice, Oh Iustice Sir, against a ravisher.
Her.
Sir I ha' done you service.
K.
A bloody service.
Her.
'Tis pure Searlet.
Enter Surgeon.
Car.
After such care to perfect my revenge
Thus banded out o'th' world by a womans plot?
Her.
I have preserv'd the Dutchess from a rape,
Good-night to me and all the world for ever.
Dies.
K.
So impious.
Dut.
'Tis most true, Alvarez blood
Is now reveng'd, I find my brain return,
And every stragling sense repairing home.
Car.
I have deserv'd you should turn from me Sir,
My life hath been prodigiously wicked,
[Page 67]
My blood is now the Kingdoms balm; oh Sir,
I have abu'd your ear, your trust, your people,
And my own sacred Office, my conscience
Feels now the sting, oh shew your charity,
And with your pardon like a cool soft gale
Fan my poor sweating soul; that wanders through
Unhabitable climes, and parched deserts;
But I am lost, if the great World forgive me,
Unless I find your mercy for a crime
You know not Madam, yet against your life.
I must confess, more than my black intents
Upon your honour, y'are already poyson'd.
K.
By whom?
Car.
By me,
In the revenge I ow'd Columbo's loss,
With your last meat was mixt a poyson that
By subtle, and by sure degrees must let in death.
K.
Look to the Dutchess, our Physicians?
Car.
Stay, I will deserve her mercy, though I cannot
Call back the deed, in proof of my repentance,
If the last breath of a now dying man
May gain your charity, and belief, receive
This Ivory box, in it an antidote
'Bove that they boast the great magistrall medicine,
That pouder mixt with wine by a most rare
And quick access to the heart will fortifie it
Against the rage of the most nimble poyson,
I am not worthy to present her with it,
Oh take it and preserve her innocent life.
1 Lo.
Strange, he should have a good thing in such readyness.
Car.
This that which in my jealousie and state
Trusting to false predictions of my birth,
That I sh dy by poyson, I preserv'd
For my own safety, wonder not, I made,
That my companion was to be my resuge.
Enter Servant with a bowle of Wine.
1 Lo.
Her's some touch of grace.
Car.
in greater proof of my pure thoughts I take
This first, and with my dying breath confirm
My penitence, it may benefit her life,
But not my wounds; oh hasten to preserve her,
And though I merit not her pardon, let not
Her fair soul be divorc'd
K.
This is some charity, may it prosper Madam.
Valeria.
How does your grace?
Dut.
And must I owe my life to him whose death
Was my ambition? take this free acknowledgment,
I had intent this night with my own hand
To be Alvarez lusticer.
K.
You were mad,
And thought past apprehension of revenge.
Dut.
That shape I did usurp, great Sir, to give
My Art more freedom and defence, but when
Hernando came to visit me, I thought
I might defer my execution,
Which his owe rage suppli'd without my guilt,
And when his lust grew high, met with his blood.
1 Lo.
The Cardial smiles.
Car.
Now my revenge has met
With you my nimble Dutchess, I have took
A shape to give my act more freedom too,
And now I am sure she's poyson'd, with that doze
I gave her last.
K.
Th'art not so horrid?
Dut.
Ha! some Cordiall.
Car.
Alas no preservative
Hath wings to overtake it, were her heart
Lock'd in a quarry, it would search, and kill
Before the aids can reach it; I am sure
You sha not now laugh at me.
K.
How came you by that poyson?
Car.
I prepar'd it,
Resolving when I had enjoy'd her, which
[Page 69]
The Colonel prevented, by some art
To make her take it, and by death conclude
My last revenge; you have the fatal Story.
K.
This is so great a wickedness, it will
Exceed belief.
Car.
I knew I could not live.
Surgeon.
Your wounds, Sir, were not desperate.
Car.
Not mortall? ha? were they not mortall?
Surg.
If I have skill in Surgery.
Car.
Then I have caught my self in my own Engin.
2 Lo.
It was your fate you said to dy by poyson.
Car.
That was my own prediction to abuse
Your faith, no humane art can now resist it,
I feel it knocking at the seat of life,
It must come in, I have wrackt all my own
To try your charities, new it would be rare,
If you but waft me with a little prayer,
My wings that flag may catch the wind, but 'tis
In vain, the mist is risen, and ther's none
To stear my wandring bark.
Dyes.
1 Lo.
He's dead?
K.
With him
Dy all deceived trust.
2 Lo.
This was a strange impiety.
K.
When men
Of Gifts and sacred Function once decline
From virtue, their ill deeds transcend example.
Dut.
The minute's come that I must take my leave too.
Your hand great Sir, and though you be a King,
We may exchange forgiveness, heaven forgive,
And all the world. I come, I come Alvarez
Dyes.
K.
Dispose their bodies for becoming funeral;
How much are Kings abus'd by those they take
To royall grace? whom when they cherish most
By nice indulgence, they doo often arm
Against themselves; from whence this maxim springs,
None have more need of Perspectives than Kings.
Exeunt.

Epilogue.

Within.

Mr. Polla'd, wher's Mr. Pollard for the Epi­logue?

He is thrust upon the Stage, and falls.
Epilogue.
I Am coming to you Gentlemen, the Poet
Has help'd me thus far on my way, but I'l
Be even with him; the Play is a Tragedy,
The first that ever he compos'd for us,
Wherein he thinks he has done pretily,
Enter Servant.
And I am sensible; I prethee look
Is nothing out of joynt? has he broke nothing?
Serv.
Nor Sir, I hope.
Epi.
Yes, he has broke his Epilogue all to peeces,
Canst thou put it together agen?
Ser.
Not I Sir.
Epi.
Nor I, prethee be gone, hum? Mr. Poet,
I have a teeming mind to be reveng'd.
You may assist, and not be seen in't now.
If you please Gentlemen, for I do know
He listens to the issue of his cause,
But blister not your hands in his applause,
Your private smile, your nod, or hum, to tell
My fellows, that you like the business well;
And when without a clap you go away,
I'l drink a small-bear health to his second day;
And break his heart, or make him swear, and rage,
He'l write no more for the unhappy Stage;
But that's too much, so we should lose; faith shew it,
And if you like his play, 'ts as well, he knew it.
FINIS.

A Catalogue of the Au­thors Poems already Printed

Tragedies.
  • THe Traytour
  • Philip Chabot Admirall of France
  • Loves Cruelty
  • The Maids Revenge
  • Dukes Mistri;
  • The Cardinal.
Comedies and Tragi-comedies.
  • The School of Complement
  • The Lady of Pleasure
  • Hide-parke
  • The Constant Maid.
  • Falsely as­cribed to Jo. Fletcher.
    The Coronation
  • The Changes, or Love in a Maze
  • The Gratefull Servant
  • The Patron of Ireland
  • The Humorous Court
  • The wedding
  • The Ball, or French Dancing Master
  • [Page] The Gamester
  • The Example
  • The Bird in a cage
  • The Royall Master
  • The Opportunity
  • The Witty Faire one
  • The Imposture
  • The Brothers
  • The Sisters.

A Masque of the four Honorable Innes of Court, pre­sented before the King and Queens Majesty at Whitehall in the Banqueting house.

Poems.

FINIS.

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