THE Amorous Prince, OR, THE Curious Husband

Aphra Behn

  • ACT. I.
  • ACT. II.
  • ACT. III.
  • ACT. IV.
  • ACT. V.

    • ACT. I.



    SCENE. I.

    The Chamber of Cloris.

    Enter Cloris drest in her night Attire, with Frederick Dressing himself.



    Clo.
    And will you leave me now to fears,
    Which love it self can hardly satisfie?
    But those, and that together sure will kill me,
    If you stay long away.

    Fred.
    My Dear, 'tis almost day, and we must part;
    Should those rude eyes, 'mongst whom thou
    Dwell'st, perceive us;
    'Twould prove unhappy both to thee and me.

    Clor.
    And will you, Sir, be constant to your Vows?

    Fred.
    Ah Cloris! do not question what I've sworn;
    If thou would'st have it once again repeated,
    I'le do't. By all that's good, I'le marry thee;
    By that most Holy Altar, before which we kneel'd,
    When first I saw the brightest Saint that e're ador'd it;
    I'le marry none but thee, my dearest Cloris.

    Clor.
    Sir, you hav said enough to gain a credit
    With any Maid; though she had been deceiv'd
    By some such flatteries, as these before.
    I never knew the pains of fear till now;
                                            [Sighs.

    And you must needs forgive the faults you make;
    For had I still remain'd in Innocence,
    I should have still believ'd you.

    Fred.
    Why dost thou not my Love?

    Clor.
    Some doubts I have, but when I look on you,
    Though I must blush to do so, they all vanish;
    But I provide against your absence, Sir.

    Fred.
    Make no provision Cloris, but of hope,
    Prepare thy self against a Wedding day,
    When thou shalt be a little Deity on Earth.

    Clor.
    I know not what it is to dwell in Courts,
    But sure it must be fine, since you are there;
    Yet I could wish you were an humble Shepherd,
    And knew no other Pallace then this Cottage;
    Where I would weave you Crowns, of Pinks and Dazies,
    And you should be a Monarch every May.

    Fred.
    And Cloris, I could be content to sit
    With thee, upon some shady Rivers bank,
    To hear thee Sing, and tell a Tale of Love.
    For thee, Alas! I could do any thing;
    A Sheep-hook I could prize above a Sword;
    An Army I would quit to lead a Flock,
    And more esteem that Chaplet wreath'd by thee,
    Then the Victorious Bays:
    All this I could, but Dear, I have a Father,
    Whom for thy sake, to make thee great and glorious,
    I would not lose my int'rest with.
    But Cloris see, the unkind day approaches,
    And we must kiss and part.

    Clor.
    Unkind it is indeed, may it prove so,
    To all that wish its presence,
    And pass as soon away,
    That welcome night may re-assume its place,
    And bring you quickly back.

    Fred.
    With great impatience I'le expect that hour,
    That shall conduct me in its shades to thee;
    Farewel.

    Clor.
    Farewel Sir, if you must be gone.
                                            [Sighs.


    Fred.
    One Kiss, and then indeed I will be gone.
                                            [Kisses her.

    Anew blown Rose kist by the morning dew,
    Has not more Natural sweetness.
    Ah Cloris! can you doubt that heart,
    To whom such blessings you impart?
    Unjustly you suspect that prize,
    Won by such touches, and such eyes.
    My Fairest, turn that Face away,
    Unless I could for ever stay;
    Turn but but a little while I go.

    Clor.
    Sir, I must see the the last of you.

    Fred.
    I dare not disobey; adieu till evening.
                                            [Exit. Fred.

    Enter Lucia.



    Clor.
    How now Lucia; is my Father up?

    Luc.
    No, not a Mouse stirs yet; I have kept a true
    Watch all this night, for I was cruelly afraid
    Lest we should have been surpriz'd—
    Is the Prince gone? but why do I ask,
    That may read it in your sad looks.

    Clor.
    Yes, he is gone, and with him too has taken.
                                            [Sighs.


    Luc.
    What has he taken? I'le swear you frighten me.

    Clor.
    My heart Lucia.

    Luc.
    Your Heart, I am glad 'tis no worse.

    Clor.
    Why, what dost think he should have taken?

    Luc.
    A thing more hard to have been
    Recovered again.

    Clor.
    What thing prethee?

    Luc.
    Your Maiden-head.

    Clor.
    What's that?

    Luc.
    A thing young Gallants long extremely for,
    And when they have it too, they say
    They care not a Dazy for the giver.

    Clor.
    How comest thou so wise Lucia?

    Luc.
    Oh the fine Gentleman that comes a nights
    With the Prince, told me so much, and bid me
    Be sure never to part with it for fine words,
    For men would lie as often as they swore;
    And so he bad me tell you too.

    Clor.
    Oh Lucia!

    Luc.
    Why do you sigh?

    Clo.
    To think if Princes were like common Men,
    How I should be undone.
    Since I have given him all I had to give;
    And who that looks on him can blame my faith.

    Luc.
    Indeed he surpasses Damon far;
    But I'de forgot my self, you are the Princes Wife;
    He said you should be kneel'd too, and ador'd,
    And never look'd on but on Holy days:
    That many Maids should wait upon your call,
    And strow fine flowers for you to tread upon;
    Musick and Love should daily fill your ears,
    And all your other senses should be ravisht
    With wonders of each kind, great as your beauty.

    Clor.
    Lucia, methinks you have learnt to speak fine things.

    Luc.
    I have a thousand more I've heard him say;
    Oh, I could listen a whole night to hear him talk:
    But hark, I hear a noise, the house is up,
    And must not find us here.

    Clor.
    Lock up this Box of Jewels for me.

    Luc.
    Oh rare! what did these come to night?

    Clor.
    Yes, yes, away.
                                            [Exeunt.


    SCENE II.

    A Grove.

    Enter Curtius and Pietro.



    Cur.
    I wonder the Prince stays so long;
    I do not like these night-works;
    Were I not confident of Cloris vertue,
    —Which shall no more be tempted.
    I hear some coming, and hope 'tis he—
    Pietro, are the Horses ready?

    Piet.
    Yes my Lord.
                                            [Exit. Pietro.

    Enter Frederick.



    Cur.
    Sir, you are welcome from Cloris Arms.

    Fred.
    With much ado, I am got loose from those fair
    Fetters; but not from those of her beauty;
    By these she still inflames me,
    In spight of all my humours of inconstancy;
    So soft and young, so fair and innocent,
    So full of Air, and yet of languishment;
    So much of Nature in her heart and eyes,
    So timerous and so kind without disguise:
    Such untaught sweets in every part do move,
    As 'gainst my reason does compel my love;
    Such artless smiles look so unorder'd too,
    Gains more then all the charms of Courts can do;
    From head to foot a spotless Statue seems,
    As Art, not Nature, had compos'd her limbs;
    So white, and so unblemisht, oh Curtius!
    I'me ravisht beyond sense when I but think on't;
    How much more must my surprise be,
    When I behold these wonders.

    Cur.
    And have you seen her, Sir, in all this beauty?
    Oh Hell!
                                            [Aside.


    Fred.
    Curtius, I will not hide my Soul from thee;
    I have seen all the marvels of that Maid.

    Car.
    My Soul learn now the Art of being disguis'd:
                                            [Aside.

    —'Tis much my, Lord, that one
    Bred in such simple innocence,
    Should learn so soon so much of confidence:
    Pray, Sir, what Arts and cunning do you use?

    Fred.
    Faith time and importunity refuse no body.

    Curt.
    Is that the way? had you no other aids?
    Made you no promise to her, Sir, of Marriage?

    Fred.
    Oh, yes in abundance, that's your only bait,
    And though they cannot hope we will perform it,
    Yet it secures their Honour and my Pleasure.

    Cur.
    Then, Sir, you have enjoy'd her?

    Fred.
    Oh yes, and gather'd sweets
    Would make an Anchoret neglect his vow,
    And think he had mistook his way to future bliss,
    Which only can be found in such embraces;
    'Twas hard to gain, but, Curtius, when once Victor,
    Oh how the joys of conquest did enslave me!

    Cur.
    But, Sir, methinks 'tis much that she should yield,
    With only a bare promise that you'd marry her.

    Fred.
    Yes, there was something more—but—

    Cur.
    But, what Sir, you are not Married.

    Fred.
    Faith yes, I've made a Vow,
    And that you know would go as far with any other man.

    Cur.
    But she it seems forgot you were the Prince?

    Fred.
    No, she urged that too,
    And left no arguments unus'd
    Might make me sensible of what I did;
    But I was fixt, and overcame them all,
    Repeating still my vows and passions for her,
    Till in the presence of her Maid and Heaven
    We solemnly contracted.

    Cur.
    But, Sir, by your permission was it well?

    Fred.
    What wouldst thou have him do
    That's all on fire, and dies for an enjoyment?

    Cur.
    But having gain'd it, do you love her still?

    Fred.
    Yes, yet extremely,
    And would be constant to the vows I've made,
    Were I a man, as thou art of thy self;
    But with the aids of Counsels I must chuse,
    And what my Soul adores I must refuse.

    Cur.
    This passion, Sir, possession will destroy,
    And you'l love less, the more you do enjoy.

    Fred.
    That's all my hope of cure; I'le ply that game,
    And slacken by degrees th'unworthy flame.

    Cur.
    Methinks, my Lord, it had more generous been
    To've check'd that flame when first it did begin.
    E're you the slighted victory had won,
    And a poor harmless Virgin quite undone;
    And what is worse, you've made her love you too.

    Fred.
    Faith that's the greater mischief of the two;
    I know to such nice Vertuous Souls as thine,
    My juster inclination is a crime;
    But I love pleasures which thou can'st not prize,
    Beyond dull gazing on thy Mistress eyes,
    The lovely object which enslaves my heart,
    Must yet more certain Cures then smiles impart,
    —And you on Laura have the same design.

    Cur.
    Yes, Sir, when justify'd by Laws Divine.

    Fred.
    Divine, a pleasant warrant for your sin,
    Which being not made, we ne're had guilty been;
    But now we speak of Laura,
    Prethee when is't that I shall see that Beauty?

    Cur.
    Never I hope [Aside] I know not, Sir,
    Her Father still is Cruel, and denys me,
    What she and I have long made sute in vain for;
    But, Sir, your Interest might prevail with him,
    When he shall know I'me one whom you esteem,
    He will allow my flame, and my address,
    He whom you favour cannot doubt success.

    Fred.
    This day I will begin to serve thee in it.

    Cur.
    Sir, 'twill be difficult to get access to her,
    Her Father is an humerous old man,
    And has his fits of Pride and kindness too.

    Fred.
    Well after dinner I will try my power,
    And will not quit his Lodgings till I've won him.

    Cur.
    I humbly thank you Sir.

    Fred.
    Come let us hast, the day comes on apace.

    Cur.
    I'le wait upon you Sir;
    Oh, Cloris, thou'rt undone, false Amorous Girle;
                                            [Ex. Fred.

    Was it for this I bred thee in obscurity,
    Without permitting thee to know what Courts meant,
    Lest their too powerful temptation
    Might have betray'd thy Soul;
    Not suffering thee to know thy Name or Parents,
    Thinking an humble life
    Might have secur'd thy Vertue:
    And yet I should not hate thee for this sin,
    Since thou art bred in so much innocence,
    Thou couldst not dream of falsity in men:
    Oh that it were permitted me to kill this Prince,
    This false perfidious Prince;
    And yet he knows not that he has abus'd me.
    When did I know a man of so much Vertue,
    That would refuse so sweet and soft a Maid;
    —No he is just and good, only too much misled
    By youth and flattery;
    And one to whom my Soul is ty'd by friendship;
    —Yet what's a Friend, a name above a Sister?
    Is not her Honour mine?
    And shall not I revenge the loss of it?
    It is but common Justice.
    But first I'le try all gentle means I may,
    And let him know that Cloris is my Sister;
    And if he then persevere in his crime,
    I'le lay my interest and my duty by,
    And punish him, or with my Honour dye.
                                            [Exit.


    SCENE III.

    The Apartment of Antonio.

    Enter Lorenzo pulling in of Isabella.



    Lor.
    Nay, nay, Isabella, there's no avoiding me now,
    You and I must come to a parley.
    Pray what's the reason
    You took no notice of me,
    When I came with so civil an address too.

    Isab.
    Can you ever think to thrive in an Amour,
    When you take notice of your Mistress,
    Or any that belongs to her, in publique,
    And when she's a Married woman too.

    Lor.
    Good Isabella, the loser may have leave to speak,
    I am sure it has been a plaguy dear Amour to me.

    Isab.
    Let me hear you name that again,
    And you shall miss of my assistance.

    Lor.
    Nay, do but hear me a little;
    I vow 'tis the strangest thing in the world,
    A man must part from so much money as I have done;
    And be confin'd to Signs and Grimmasses only,
    To declare his mind in;
    If a man has a Tongue, let him exercise it, I say,
    As long as he pays for speaking.

    Isab.
    Again with your paying fort; I see you are not
    To be reclaim'd; farewel—

    Lor.
    Stay good Isabella, stay,
    And thou shalt here not one word of that more,
    Though I am soundly urg'd to't.

    Isab.
    Yes, yes, pray count them, do;
    I know you long to be at it,
    And I am sure you will find you are in Arrears to us.

    Lor.
    Say you so, I am not of that opinion, but well,
    —Let me see—here 'tis, here 'tis—
    —My Bill of charge for Courting Clarina.
                                            [Draws out his Table Book and reads.


    Isab.
    And here's mine for the returns that have been
    Made you; begin, begin.
                                            [Pulls out her Book.


    Lor.
    Item, 200 Crowns to Isabella for undertaking.

    Isab.
    Item, I have promis'd Lorenzo to serve him
    In his Amour with all fidelity.

    Lor.
    Well, I own that debt paid, if you keep
    Your word—out with it then—
                                            [He crosses that out.

    Item, 2000 Crowns in a Bracelet for Clarina;
    What say you to that now Isabella?

    Isab.
    Item, The day after they were presented,
    She saluted you with a smile at the Chappel.

    Lor.
    And dost thou think it was not dearly bought?

    Isab.
    No man in Florence should have had it
    A Souce cheaper.

    Lor.
    Say you so Isabella; out with it then.
                                            [Crosses it out.

    Item, 100 more to thee for presenting them.

    Isab.
    Which I did with six lyes in your commendation,
    Worth ten Pistols a piece for the exactness of a Lie;
    Write there indebted to me—

    Tor.
    Nay then thou dost deserve it:
    Rest due to Isabella.
                                            [Writes.

    Item, Innumerable Serenades, night-walks, affronts
    And fears; and lastly, to the Poets for Songs, and the like.

    Isab.
    All which was recompenced in the excessive
    Laughing on you that day you praunc'd under our
    Window on Horse-back, when you made such a
    Deal of Capriol and Curvet.

    Lor.
    Yes, where I ventur'd my neck to shew my
    Activity, and therefore may be well accompted
    Amongst my losses.

    Isab.
    Then she receiv'd your Presents,
    Suffer'd your Serenades, without sending her footmen
    To break your Pate with the Fiddles.

    Lor.
    Indeed that was one of the best signs,
    For I have been a great sufferer in that kind
    Upon the like occasions; but dost thou think
    In conscience that this should satisfie?

    Isab.
    Yes, any reasonable man in the world for the
    First month at least; and yet you are still up
    With your expences, as if a Lady of her quality
    Were to be gain'd without them—
    Let me hear of your expences more, and I'le—

    Lor.
    Oh sweet Isabella! upon my knees,
    I beg thou wilt take no fatal resolution;
    For I protest, as I am a man of Honour,
    And adore thy Sex, thou shalt only see,
    Not hear of my expences more;
    And for a small testimony of it, here, take this;
    There's twenty Pistols upon reputation.
                                            [Gives her Money.


    Isab.
    Fie, Fie, 'tis not brave, nor generous to name
    The sum; you should have slid it into my coat,
    Without saying what you had done.

    Lor.
    What signifies that mun, as long as 'tis currant,
    And you have it sure.

    Isab.
    Well, leave the management of your Affairs to me,
    —What shall we do? here's Alberto.

    Enter Alberto.



    Lor.
    Well, who can help it; I cannot walk invisible.

    Alb.
    Lorenzo, what making Love to Isabella?

    Lor.
    She'l serve, my Lord, for want of a better.

    Isab.
    That's but a course Complement.

    Lor.
    'Twill serve to disguise a truth however.
                                            [Aside to her.

    Faith I'le tell you, Sir, 'twas such another Damsel
                                            [Ex. Isab.

    As this, that sav'd me 500 pound once upon a time;
    And I have lov'd the whole Tribe of Waiting-women
    The better ever since.

    Alb.
    You have reason, how was it?

    Lor.
    Why look you Sir?
    I had made love a long time to a Lady,
    But she shall be nameless,
    Since she was of a quality not to be gain'd under
    The aforesaid sum; well, I brought it,
    Came powder'd and perfum'd, and high in expectation.

    Alb.
    Well Sir.

    Lor.
    And she had a very prety wench, who was to
    Conduct me, and in the dark too;
    And on my conscience, I e'ne fell aboard of her,
    And was as well accommodated for my five,
    As five hundred pounds, and so return'd.

    Alb.
    A great defeat to the Lady the while a my word.

    Lor.
    I, she smelt the Plot, and made a vow to follow
    The Italian mode for the future;
    And be serv'd in affairs of that kind, by none,
    But an old Woman.

    Alb.
    'Twas wittily resolv'd.

    Lor.
    Are you for the presence this morning?

    Alb.
    No, I have business here with Antonio.

    Lor.
    Your Servant my Lord—
                                            Exit. Lorenzo.


    Alb.
    I do not like this fellows being here,
    The most notorious Pimp, and Rascal in Italy;
    'Tis a vile shame that such as he should live,
    Who have the form and sense of man about them,
    And in their action Beast,
    And that he thrives by too:
                                            Enter Isabella.

    —Isabella, is Antonio stiring?

    Isab.
    He is, please your Lordship to walk in.

    Alb.
    You may tell him I wait here—
    —For I would avoid all opportunity of seeing Clarina.
                                            [Aside.


    Isab.
    My Lord, you need not stand upon Ceremonies.
                                            [Ex. Alberto.

    Enter Clarina and Ismena, drest like one another in every thing, Laughing and beholding one another.


    —Drest already! now on my conscience
    I know not which is which;
    Pray God Antonio be not mistaken at night,
    For I'le be sworn I am by day-light.

    Ism.
    Dost think I may pass thus for Clarina?

    Isab.
    Madam, you are the same to a hair,
    Wood I might never stir,
    If I can do any thing but wonder.

    Clar.
    But hark Isabella, if thou should'st have
    Heard amiss, and that thy information should not be good,
    Thou hast defeated us of a design,
    Wherein we promise our selves no little pleasure.

    Ism.
    Yes I vow, all the Jest is lost if it be so.

    Isab.
    I doubt 'twill be a true Jest on your side.
                                            [Aside.

    —I warrant you, Madam, my Intelligence is good;
    And to assure you of what I have said,
    I dare undertake you shall hear the same over again;
    For just now Alberto is come to visit my Lord,
    Who I am sure will entertain him with no other stories,
    But those of his jealousie,
    And to perswade him to Court you.

    Clar.
    'Tis strange, since he set him that task so long ago,
    He would not begin before.

    Ism.
    Nay, pray God he begin now;
    Sister, he has hitherto took me for thee,
    And sometimes his eyes give me hope of a secret
    Fire within, but 'twill not out;
    And I am so impatient till he declares himself,
    That if he do not do it soon,
    I shall e'ne tell him who I am;
    For perhaps, the Wife takes off the appetite
    Which would sharpen upon knowledge of the Virgin.

    Clar.
    What then, you'l have all the sport to your self;
    —But, Ismena, remember my little revenge on Antonio
    Must accompany your love to Alberto.
                                            [Aside.


    Isab.
    But why this resemblance?
    For, Madam, since he never saw you,
    And takes Ismena to be you;
    Might you not still pass so, without this likeness?

    Clar.
    Didst thou not say, Antonio left the Court
    And City, on purpose to give Alberto the more freedom
    To Court me:
    —Whilst he was away, I needed but retire,
    And Ismena appear, and 'twould sufficee;
    But now he is return'd,
    He may chance to see them together, en passant, or so,
    And this dress will abuse him as well as Alberto,
    For without that, this Plot of ours signifies little.

    Ism.
    Aye truly for my part, I have no other design
    Then doing my Sister a service.

    Isab.
    The Plot is very likely to thrive I see,
    Since you are so good at dissembling.

    Ism.
    Fie Isabella, what an ill opinion you have of me?
    —But Sister, 'tis much Alberto being so intimate
    With Antonio, should never see you all this whole
    Six months of your being Married.

    Clar.
    Had you been bred any where,
    But in a Monastery, you would have known,
    'Tis not the custom here for men to expose their
    Wives to the view of any.

    Isab.
    I hear them coming, let's away,
    And pray listen to the truths I have already told you.
                                            [Exeunt.


    SCENE. IV.

    Enter Antonio and Alberto.


                                            [Clarina and Ismena listen.


    Alb.
    Once more Antonio, welcom back to Court.

    Ant.
    Oh my dear friend, I long'd for thy embraces;
    —How goes the Game I left with thee to play?
    What says my Wife, my beautiful Clarina?

    Alb.
    Clarina—

    Ant.
    Yes Clarina, have you not seen her yet?
    I left the Court on purpose, for 'twas not handsome
    For me to introduce you;
    Lest she had lookt upon't as some design.

    Alb.
    Seen her—yes—

    Ant.
    And I conjur'd her too, to give you freedoms
    Even equal to Antonio;
    As far as I durst press with modesty,
    And with pretence of Friendship;
    And have you not attempted her?

    Alb.
    Yes—but 'tis in vain.

    Ant.
    Oh Villanious dissembler.
                                            [Aside.


    Alb.
    She's cruel, strangely cruel,
    And I'me resolv'd to give the Courtship o're.

    Ant.
    Sure friend, thou hast not us'd thy wonted power.

    Alb.
    Yes, all that I know I'me master of, I us'd.

    Ant.
    But didst thou urge it home? did she not see,
    Thy words and actions did not well agree?
    Canst thou dissemble well? didst cry and melt,
    As if the pain you but exprest, you felt?
    Didst kneel, and swear, and urge thy quality,
    Heightning it too with some disgrace on me?
    And didst thou too assail her feeble side?
    For the best bait to woman is her Pride;
    Which some mis-call her Guard:
    Didst thou present her with the set of Jewels?
    For Women naturally are more inclin'd
    To Avarice, then Men:
    Pray tell me Friend,
    —Vile woman did she take them—

    Alb.
    I never ask'd her that.

    Clar.
    Poor Antonio how I pity him.
                                            [Aside.


    Ant.
    No!

    Alb.
    No, I've done enough to satisfie thy jealousie;
    Here take your set of Jewels back again;
                                            [Gives a Box.

    Upon my life Clarina is all chastity.

    Ant.
    I were the happiest man on Earth, were this but true;
    But what are single Courtships—give her these
    Which will assist thy tongue to win her heart;
    And that once got, the other soon will follow;
    There's far more women won by Gold then industry:
    Try that my dear Alberto,
    And save thy eyes the trouble of desembling.

    Alb.
    Content thee here, and do not tempt thy fate,
    I have regard unto thy Honour Friend,
    And should she yield, as women are no gods,
    Where were thy future Joys;
    What is't could make thee happy, or restore
    That true contentment which thou had'st before?
    Alas thou tempt'st me too, for I am frail,
    And love above my friendship may prevail.

    Ant.
    This will not do;
    No, as thou art my Friend, and lov'st my Honour,
    Pursue Clarina further;
    Rally a fresh, and charge her with this Present,
    Disturb her every night with Serenades;
    Make Love-Songs to her, and then Sing them too;
    Thou hast a voice enough alone to conquer.

    Alb.
    Fool Antonio.
                                            [Aside.


    Ant.
    Come wilt thou undertake it once again?

    Alb.
    I would not.

    Ant.
    I am resolv'd to get this tryal made,
    And if thou dost refuse thy Amity,
    I'le try a Friend more willing, though less faithful,
    With thee my Wife and Honour too are safe;
    For should she yield, and I by that were lost,
    'Twere yet some ease,
    That none but thou wer't witness to't.

    Alb.
    Well, if it must be done, I'de rather do't,
    Then you should be expos'd to th'scorn of others.

    Ant.
    Spoke like my noble Friend;
    Come dine with her to day, for I must leave you,
    And give you all the opportunity
    A real Lover wishes with a Mistress:

    Isam.
                                            [So we have heard enough.]
                                            Ex. Clar. and Ism.


    Ant.
    Oh were Clarina chaste, as on my Soul
    I cannot doubt, more then that I believe
    All woman kind may be seduc'd from Vertue;
    I were the man of all the world most blest,
    In such a Wife, and such a Friend as thou.

    Alb.
    But what if I prevail Antonio?

    Ant.
    Then I'le renounce my faith in woman kind,
    And place my satisfaction in thy Amity.
    —But see she comes, I'le leave you to your task.

    Enter Ismena and Isabella.



    Ism.
    Antonio not yet gone—
    This must secure me.
                                            Pulls down her Veil.


    Ant.
    Clarina, why thus clouded?

    Isab.
    I see he has most happily mistaken.

    Ism.
    I was going, Sir, to visit Laura—

    Ant.
    You must not go, I've business to the Duke,
    And you must entertain my Friend till my return;
    It is a freedom not usual here amongst Ladies,
    But I will have it so;
    Whom I esteem I'le have you do so to.

    Ism.
    Sir, I am all obedience.
                                            [Exit Antonio, She pulls off her Veil; Albert. salutes her with seeming-lowness.


    Alb.
    Oh how my Soul's divided,
    Between my Adoration and my Amity!
                                            [Aside

    Friendship, thou sacred band, hold fast thy interest,
    For yonder Beauty has a subtle power,
    And can undo that knot, which other Arts
    Could ne're invent a way for.

    Enter Antonio and listens at the door.



    Ant.
    I'le see a little how he behaves himself.
                                            [Aside.


    Alb.
    But she's Antonio's wife; my friend Antonio,
                                            [Aside.

    A youth that made an interest in my Soul,
    When I had language scarce to express my sense of it.

    Ant.
    Death, he speaks not to her.
                                            [Aside.


    Alb.
    So grew we up to man, and still more fixt;
                                            [Aside.

    And shall a gawdy beauty,
    A thing, which t'other day, I never saw,
    Deprive my heart of that kind heat,
    And place a new and unknown fire within;
    Clarina, 'tis unjust.

    Ism.
    Sir, did you speak to me.

    Alb.
    I have betray'd my self—
    Madam, I was saying how unjust it was
    Antonio should leave me alone with a Lady,
    Being certainly the worst to entertain them in the world.

    Ant.
    His face assures me he speaks of no love to her now.

    Ism.
    Alas, he speaks not to me,
                                            [Aside.

    Sure Isabella was mistaken,
    Who told me that he lov'd me;
    —Alberto, if thou art oblig'd to me,
                                            [Aside.

    For what I have not yet observ'd in thee:
    Oh do not say my heart was easily won,
    But blame your eyes, whose forces none can shun.

    Ant.
    Not a word, what can he mean by this?

    Ism.
    Sir, will you please to sit a while?

    Isab.
    Madam, the inner chamber is much better,
    For there he may repose upon the Cushions till my
    Lords return; I see he is not well—
    —And you are both sick of one disease.
                                            [Aside.


    Alb.
    I thank you, here's more air,
    —And that I need, for I am all on fire,
                                            [Aside.

    And every look adds fuel to my flame.
    —I must avoid those eyes, whose light misguides me:
    —Madam, I have some business calls me hence,
    And cannot wait my friends return.

    Ism.
    Antonio, Sir, will think 'tis my neglect
    That drove you hence; pray stay a little longer.

    Alb.
    You shall command me, if you can dispence
    With so dull company.

    Isab.
    I can with any thing Antonio loves.

    Alb.
    Madam, it is a Vertue that becomes you;
    For though your Husband should not merit this,
    Your goodness is not less to be admir'd;
    But he's a man so truely worth your kindness,
    That 'twere a sin to doubt,
    Your passion for him were not justly paid.

    Ism.
    Sir, I believe you, and I hope he thinks
    That my opinion of him equals yours;
    'Tis plain he loves me not,
                                            [Aside.

    Perhaps, his Vertue, thinking me Clarina,
    May hide the real passion of his Soul.
    Oh Love, what dangerous paths thou mak'st us tread!

    Ant.
    Cold, cold as Devotion, oh inhumane friendship!

    Alb.
    What shall I do next? I must either be rude,
    And say nothing, or speak of Love to her;
    And then my Friend thou'rt lost should I prevail,
    And I'me undone should she not hear my tale,
    Which for the world I would not have hear hear;
    And yet I fear my eyes too much declare.

    Ism.
    Since he's in so ill an humour, let's leave him,
    I'me satisfy'd now that thou wer't mistaken.
                                            [Ex. Ismena and Isabella unseen.


    Alb.
    But they shall gaze no more on hers,
    Nor stray beyond the limits of a just salute.
    —I will my Honour to my Love prefer,
    And my Antonio shall out-Rival her.
                                            [Looks about and misses them.

    —Ah, am I left alone!—how frail is man;
    That which last moment I resolv'd upon,
    I find my heart already disapprove,
    And grieve her loss; can this be ought but love?
    My Soul's dissatisfy'd now she is gone,
    And yet but now I wish't to be alone;
    —Inform me Love who shares the better part,
    Friendship, or thee, in my divided heart.
                                            [Offers to go.

    Enter Antonio and stays him.



    Ant.
    Whether in such haste?
    Thou look'st e'ne as sad as a Lover repulst,
    I fear that fate's, not thine.

    Alb.
    Now for a lye to satisfie him.
                                            [Aside.

    Prethee discharge me of this toyl of dissembling,
    Of which I grow as weary, as she's of hearing it.

    Ant.
    Indeed.

    Alb.
    Sure thou haste a design to make her hate me.

    Ant.
    Do you think so in earnest, why was she angry?

    Alb.
    Oh! hadst thou seen her pretty blushing scorn
    Which she would fain have hid,
    Thou wouldst have pitied what I made her suffer.

    Ant.
    Is't possible!
    And didst present her with the Box of Jewels?

    Alb.
    Yes.

    Ant.
    And kneel, and cry, and swear, and—

    Alb.
    All, all.

    Ant.
    I hardly gave thee time for so much Courtship,
    —But you are sure she was displeased with it?

    Alb.
    Extremely.

    Ant.
    Enough Alberto; adieu to thee and friendship.

    Alb.
    What mean you?

    Ant.
    Ask your own guilt, it will inform thee best.

    Alb.
    Thou canst not think Clarina has abus'd thee.

    Ant.
    I do not think she has, nor have you try'd her;
    In that you have not only disoblig'd me,
    But now you would impose upon my weakness;
    —Did I not see how unconcern'd you were,
    And hardly paying her a due respect;
    And when she even invited thee to speak,
    Most rudely thou wer't silent.

    Alb.
    Be calm Antonio, I confess my error.
    And hate that vertue taught me to deceave thee;
    —Here take my hand,—
    I'le serve thee in good earnest.

    Ant.
    And now I do believe thee,
    Go—thou shalt lose no time, I must away,
    My Soul's in torment, tell I am confirm'd
    Of my Clarina's Vertue;
    I do believe thou hast a generous shame,
    For what thou'st said and done to me thy friend;
    For could I doubt thy love: oh how ridiculous
    This act of mine would seem!
    But 'tis to thee, as to my Soul I come,
    Disputing every petty crime and doubt.

    Alb.
    Antonio, if there need an Oath between us.

    Ant.
    No, I credit thee; go in,
    And prethee dress thy eyes in all their Charms,
    For this uncertainty disturbs me more,
    Then if I knew Clarina were a—Whore—
                                            [Exeunt severally.


    ACT. II.



    SCENE I.

    The Apartment of Frederick.

    Enter Frederick with a Letter, and Galliard.



    Fred.
    Not allow me to speak to her, say ye, 'tis strange;
    Did'st say it was the Prince that sent thee?

    Ser.
    My Lord, I did, but he says, he cares not for
    A thousand Princes.

    Fred.
    I am resolv'd I will see this woman;
    —Harkey, go back again and say—
                                            [Whispers.

    Enter Lorenzo Drunk.



    Lor.
    Hah the Prince—he must not see me
    In this pickle; for I would not lose my reputation
    Of Wenching, for this of Drinking;
    And I am sure I cannot be excellent at both,
    They are inconsistent.

    Ser.
    I shall my Lord.
                                            [Ex. Galliard.


    Lor.
    Your Highness humble servant.

    Fred.
    Ha, ha, what Lorenzo in deboach.

    Lor.
    Now my tongue will betray me;
    —Faith, my Lord, I have took six, but am come briskly off;
    By this hand, my Lord, I am cock over five,
    Stout Rogues too, I can tell you, at this sport.

    Fred.
    I did not think thou hadst had that Vertue.

    Lor.
    I'le tell you, Sir, 'tis necessary those of my
    Office and quality, should have more Vertues
    Then one to recommend them;
    But to tell you truth, for now I am most apt for that,
    I was drunk in meer malice to day.

    Fred.
    Malice, against whom prethee.

    Lor.
    Why, why, Sir, the humorous old fellow
    My Father, he will not hear reason from me when I am sober.

    Fred.
    Why, what's the matter between you?

    Lor.
    My Lord, you know Curtius is an honest fellow,
    And one of us too;
    My sister Laura is a good pretty Wench,
    He loves her, and she likes him;
    And because this testy old Blade has done himself,
    Do you think I can bring him to consider?
    No not for my life he wont consider Sir;
    And now am I got drunk to see how that will edifie him.

    Fred.
    How! is Laura the Mistriss of Curtius your sister?

    Lor.
    Yes marry is she Sir, at least by the Mothers side;
    And to tell you truth,
    We are too good natur'd to believe
    Salvator our Father.

    Fred.
    Thy Sister and Daughter to Salvator?

    Fred.
    So said my Mother, but she was handsom,
    And on my conscience liv'd, e'en in such another
    Debaucht world as 'tis now; let them say
    What they will of their Primitive vertue.

    Fred.
    May not I see this Sister of thine Lorenzo?

    Lor.
    Yes by Venus shall your Sir,
    And she were my Mother.

    Fred.
    But art sure thy Father will permit us?

    Lor.
    My Father permit us!
    He may do what he will when I am sober,
    But being thus fortify'd with potent Wine,
    He must yield obedience to my will;
    Why my Lord, I'le tell you;
    I'le make him ask me blessing when I am in this
    Almighty power.

    Fred.
    And is thy Sister so very fine?

    Lor.
    The Girl is well, and if she were not my Sister,
    I would give you a more certain proof of my
    Opinion of her;
    She has excellent good Hair, fine Teeth,
    And good hands, and the best natur'd Fool
    —Come, come, Sir, I'le bring you to her,
    And then I'le leave you;
    For I have a small affair of Love to dispatch.

    Fred.
    This is a freedom that sutes not with the
    Humour of an Italian.

    Lor.
    No faith, my Lord, I believe my Mother play'd
    Foul play with some English man;
    I am so willing to do you a good office to my Sister,
    And if by her humour you become of that opinion too,
    I shall hope to render my self more acceptable
    To you by that Franchise.

    Enter Galliard, whispers.



    Fred.
    Thou knowest my grateful temper,
    —No matter; here carry this Letter to Cloris,
    And make some excuse for my not coming this evening.
                                            [Gives him a Letter, and goes out with Lorenz


    Ser.
    So, poor Lass, 'tis a hundred to one if she be not
    Lay'd by now, and Laura must succeed her:
    Well, even Frederick, I see, is but a man,
    But his youth and quality will excuse him;
    And 'twill be called gallantry in him,
    When in one of us, 'tis ill nature and inconstancy.

    SCENE II.

    Enter Ismena and Isabella.



    Isab.
    Nay, Madam, 'tis in vain to deny it,
    Do you think I have liv'd to these years,
    And cannot interpret Cross Arms, imperfect replies,
    Your sudden weepings, your often sighing,
    Your melancholy walks, and making Verses too?
    And yet I must not say that this is Love.

    Ism.
    Art thou so notable a Judge of it?

    Isab.
    I should be, or I am a very dull Schollar,
    For I have lost the foolish boy as many Darts,
    As any Woman of my age in Florence.

    Ism.
    Thou hast pay'd dear for thy knowledge then.

    Isab.
    No, the hurts one did,
    The other still made good with very little
    Pain on either side.

    Ism.
    I must confess, I think it is not so hard to get
    Wounds, as 'tis to get them cur'd again.

    Isab.
    I am not of your opinion, nor ever saw that
    Man that had not faults to Cure,
    As well as charms to kill.

    Ism.
    Since thou'rt so good a Judge of men,
    Prethee tell me how thou lik'st Alberto.

    Isab.
    I knew 'twould come to this—
                                            [Aside

    Why well Madam.

    Ism.
    No more then so.

    Isab.
    Yes wondrous well, since I am sure he loves you,
    And that indeed raises a mans value.

    Ism.
    Thou art deceiv'd, I do not think he Loves me.

    Isab.
    Madam, you cannot but see a thousand marks on't.

    Ism.
    Thou hast more skill then I;
    But prethee why does he not tell me so himself.

    Isab.
    Oh Madam! whilst he takes you for Clarina,
    'Twould show his dis-respect to tell his Love;
    But when he knows Ismena is the object,
    He'le tire you with the wisht for story.

    Ism.
    Ah, thou art a pleasing flatterer.

    Enter Page.



    Page.
    Madam, Alberto is without.

    Ism.
    Tell him I'me indispos'd, and cannot see him now.

    Isab.
    Nay, good Madam, see him now by all means,
    For I am sure my Lord Antonio is absent on purpose;
    —Bid him come in Boy.
                                            Ex. Page.

    Enter Alberto.



    Ism.
    Antonio, Sir, is not return'd.

    Alb.
    Madam, this visit was not meant to him,
    But by a cause more pressing I am brought,
    Such as my passion, not my friendship taught;
    A passion which my sighs have only shewn,
    And now beg leave my bashful tongue may own
    The knowledge, Madam, will not much surprise,
    Which you have gain'd already from mine eyes;
    My timerous heart that way my tongue would spare,
    And tells you of the flames you've kindled there:
    'Tis long I've suffer'd under this constraint,
    Have always suffer'd, but ne're made complaint;
    And now against my will I must reveal,
    What Love, and my respect, would fain conceal.

    Ism.
    What mean you Sir? what have you seen in me,
    That should encourage this temerity?

    Alb.
    A world of Beauties, and a world of Charms,
    And every smile and frown begets new harms;
    In vain I strove my passion to subdue,
    Which still increas'd the more I look't on you;
    Nor will my heart permit me to retire,
    But makes my eyes the convoys to my fire,
    And not one glance you send is cast away.

    Ism.
    Enough my Lord, have you nought else to say?
                                            [Smiles.

    The Plots betray'd, and can no further go;
    The Stratagem's discover'd to the Foe;
    I find Antonio has more love then wit,
    And I'le endeavour too to merit it.

    Alb.
    What you have said, I do confess is true,
    Antonio beg'd I would make love to you;
    But, Madam, whilst my heart was unconfin'd,
    A thousand ways the treachery I declin'd;
    But now Clarina, by my life I swear,
    It is my own concern that brings me here:
    Had he been just to you, I had supprest
    The flame your eyes have kindled in my breast;
    But his suspition rais'd my passion more,
    And his injustice taught me adore;
    But 'tis a passion which you may allow,
    Since its effects shall never injure you.

    Ism.
    You have oblig'd me, Sir, by your confession,
    And I shall own it too at such a rate,
    As both becomes my duty to Antonio,
    And my respect to you; but I must beg
    You'l never name your passion to me more;
    That guilty language, Sir, I must not hear,
    —And yet your silence kills me.
                                            [Aside.


    Isab.
                                            [Very well dissembled.]
                                            [Aside.


    Alb.
    I can obey you, Madam, though I cannot live,
    Whilst you command me silence;
    For 'tis a flame that dares not look abroad
    To seek for pity from anothers eyes.

    Ism.
    How he moves me; if this were real now,
                                            [Aside.

    Or that he knew to whom he made this Courtship—

    Alb.
    Oh do not turn away as if displeas'd.

    Ism.
    No more, you've discompos'd my thoughts;
    Begon and never let me see thy face again.

    Alb.
    Madam, I go, and will no more offend you,
    —But I will look my last—farewel.
                                            [Offers to go.


    Isab.
    Pray, Madam, call him back, he may be desperate.
    —My Lord return—

    Ism.
    Alberto, tell me what you'd have me do.

    Alb.
    Ah Madam, do not put me to my choice,
    For Lovers are unreasonable,
    If I might name it, I would have you love me.

    Ism.
    Love you, and what would be the end of that?

    Alb.
    I cannot tell, but wish you were inclin'd
    To make a tryal, Madam;
    I have no thought or wish beyond that blessing,
    And that once gain'd sure, I should ask no more.

    Ism.
    Were I inclin'd to this, have you consider'd
    The fatal consequences which attend
    The breach of Vows and Friendship.

    Alb.
    Madam, Antonio first was false to you,
    And not to punish that, were such a Vertue
    As he would never thank you for;
    By all that's good, till he prov'd so to you,
    He had my Soul in keeping;
    But this act, makes me resolve
    To recompence his folly.

    Ism.
    You've found the easiest passage to my heart,
    You've took it on the weakest side;
    —But I must beg you will pretend no further.

    Alb.
    Divine Clarina, let me pay my thanks
    In this submissive posture, and never rise,
                                            [Kneels.

    Till I can gain so much upon your credit,
    As to believe my passion tends no farther
    Then to adore you thus—and thus possess you,
                                            [Kisses her hand and Bows.


    Ism.
    Have not I dissembled finely Isabella.
                                            [Aside.


    Isab.
    Yes, if you could make me believe 'tis so.
                                            [Aside.


    Ism.
    Rise, Sir, and leave me, that I may blush alone
    For what I've parted with so easily;
    Pray do not visit me again too soon,
    —But use your own discretion, and be secret.

    Alb.
    Madam, The blessed secret here is lodg'd,
    Which time shall ne're reveal to humane knowledge.
                                            [Ex. Alb.


    Ism.
    I'me glad he's gone before Antonio return'd;

    Enter Laura Weeping.


    —What Laura all in Tears, the reason pray!

    Lau.
    Madam, the Prince conducted by my brother,
    About an hour since made me a visit;
    The Man of all the world I would have shun'd,
    Knowing his Amorous and inconstant temper;
    —At his approach he blusht and started back,
    And I with great amazement did the like.
    With fear I lost all power of going from him,
    As he had done of making his address;
    He gaz'd, and wonder'd, and I gaz'd on him,
    And from his silence I became amaz'd.
    —My brother stood confounded at our postures,
    And only by the motion of his head,
    (Which now he turn'd to me, then on the Prince)
    We knew that he had life.

    Ism.
    Well, how recover'd ye?

    Lau.
    The Prince then kneel'd, but could approach no nearer,
    And then as if he'd taken me for some Deity;
    He made a long disorder'd Amorous speech,
    Which brought me back to sense again;
    But Lorenzo told him that I was a mortal,
    And brought him nearer to me,
    Where he began to make such vows of Love—

    Ism.
    What then?

    Lau.
    Then I am ruin'd—
    To all I said he found a contradiction,
    And my denials did but more inflame him;
    I told him of the vows I'de made to Curtius,
    But he reply'd that Curtius was a Subject;
    But sure at last I'de won upon his goodness,
    Had not my Father enter'd,
    To whom the Prince addrest himself;
    And with his moving tale so won upon him,
    Or rather by his quality,
    That he has gain'd his leave to visit me,
    And quite forbids me e're to speak to Curtius.

    Ism.
    Alas the day, is this all?

    Lau.
    All? can there be more to make me miserable?

    Ism.
    I see no reason thou hast to complain;
    Come, wipe your eyes, and take a good heart,
    For I'le tell thee a story of my own,
    That will let thee see I have much more cause to weep;
    And yet I have a thousand little stratagems
    In my head, which give me as many hopes:
    This unlucky restraint upon our Sex,
    Makes us all cunning, and that shall assist thee now
    With my help, I warrant thee;
    Come in with me and know the rest.
                                            [Exeunt.


    Isab.
    So, so, disguise it how you will,
    I know you are a real Lover;
    And that secret shall advance my Love-design;
    Yes Madam, now I will be serv'd by you,
    Or you shall fail to find a friend of me.
                                            [Ex. Isab.


    SCENE III.

    Enter Lorenzo Drunk, with a Page, and Musick as in the dark.



    Lor.
    Here's the door, begin and play your best,
    But let them be soft low Notes, do you hear?
                                            [They Play.

    Enter Antonio.



    Ant.
    Musick at my Lodgings, it is Alberto;
    Oh how I love him for't—if Clarina stand his
    Courtship, I am made;
    I languish between hope and fear.

    Lor.
    Stay Friend, I hear some body.
                                            [Musick ceases.


    Page.
    'Tis no body Sir.

    Enter Isabella.



    Isab.
    'Tis Lorenzo, and my Plots ripe;
                                            [Aside.

    'Twill not sure be hard to get him, under pretence
                                            Lorenzo being retir'd the while a little further:

    Of seeing Clarina, into my Chamber,
    And then I'le order him at my pleasure:
    Ismena is on my side, for I know all her secrets,
    And she must wink at mine therefore.
                                            [She retires.


    Lor.
    Thou art in the right Boy,
    I think indeed 'twas nothing.
                                            [Plays again.

    Enter Alberto.



    Alb.
    She yields, bad woman!
    Why so easily won?
    By me too, who am thy Husbands friend:
    Oh dangerous boldness! uncconsidering woman,
    I lov'd thee, whilst I thought thou could'st not yield;
    But now that easiness has undone thy interest in my heart:
    I'le back and tell thee that it was to try thee.

    Lor.
    No, no, 'twas my fears, away with the Song,
    I'le take it on your word that 'tis fit for my purpose.

    Fid.
    I'le warrant you my Lord.


                        SONG.


    In vain I have labour'd the Victor to prove,
    Of a heart that can ne're give attendance to Love;
       So hard to be done,
       That nothing so young
    Could e're have resisted a passion so long.

    Yet nothing I left unattempted or said,
    That might soften the heart of this pitiless Maid;
       But still she was shye,
       And would blushing deny,
    Whilst her willinger eyes gave her Language the lye.

    Since Phillis, my passion you vow to despise,
    Withdraw the false hopes from your flattering eyes,
       For whilst they inspire
       A resistless vain fire.
    We shall grow to abhor, what we now do admire.
                                            [Ex. Musick.


    Alb.
    What's this, and at Clarina's lodgings too?
    Sure 'tis Antonio impatient of delay,
    Gives her a Serenade for me.

    Enter Isabella.



    Isab.
    'Tis the fool himself—
    My Lord, where are you?

    Alb.
    How, a womans voice! 'tis dark, I'le advance.

    Lor.
    Thou Simpleton, I told thee there was some-body.

    Pag.
    Lord, Sir, 'tis only Isabella that calls you.

    Lor.
    Away Sirrah, I find by my fears 'tis no woman,
                                            [Goes out with the Page.


    Isab.
    Why don't you come, here's no body.

    Alb.
    Here I am.

    Isab.
    Where?

    Alb.
    Here.
                                            [Gives her his Hand.


    Isab.
    My Lord, you may venture, Clarina will be
    Alone within this hour, where you shall entertain
    Her at your freedom; but you must stay a while in my
    Chamber till my Lords a bed,
    For none but I must know of the favour she designs you.

    Alb.
    Oh gods! what language do I here—
    False and perfidious woman, I might have thought,
    Since thou wer't gain'd so easily by me,
    Thou wouldst with equal haste yield to another.

    Isab.
    It is not Lorenzo, what shall I do?
                                            [She steals in.

    Enter Lorenzo and Page.



    Lor.
    A Pox of all Damn'd Cowardly fear,
    Now did I think I had drunk Nature up to resolution;
    I have heard of those that could have dar'd in their drink,
    But I find, drunk or sober, 'tis all one in me.

    Alb.
    The Traytor's here,
    Whom I will kill who e're he be.

    Lor.
    Boy, go see for Isabella.

    Boy.
    I see a man should not be a Coward and a Lover
    At once—Isabella, Isabella, she's gone Sir.
                                            [Calls.


    Alb.
    Yes villain, she's gone, and in her room
    Is one that will chastise thy boldness.

    Lor.
    That's a proud word though, who e're thou be,
    But how I shall avoid it, is past my understanding.

    Alb.
    Where art thou slave?
                                            [Alberto gropes for him, he avoids him.


    Pag.
    Take heart Sir, here's company which I will
    Get to assist you—
                                            [Enter Antonio.

    Sir, as you are a Gentleman, assist a stranger set upon by Thieves.
    [They fight, Antonio with Alberto, Alberto falls, is wounded.

                                            [Lor. runs away the while.


    Alb.
    Who e're thou be'st that takes the Traytors part,
    Commend me to the wrong'd Antonio.

    Ant.
    Alberto! dear Alberto, is it thee?

    Alb.
    Antonio!

    Ant.
    I am asham'd to say I am Antonio;
    Oh gods, why would you suffer this mistake?

    Alb.
    I am not wounded much,
    My greatest pain is my concern for thee;
    Friend thou art wrong'd, falsly and basely wrong'd;
    Clarina whom you lov'd and fear'd,
    Has now betray'd thy Honour with her own.

    Ant.
    Without that sad addition to my grief,
    I should not long have born the weight of life,
    Having destroy'd thine by a dire mistake.

    Alb.
    Thou art deceiv'd.

    Ant.
    Alas, why was it not permitted me
    To lose my Friend, or Wife, had one surviv'd,
    I might have dy'd in silence for the other;
    Oh my Alberto! oh Clarina too—
                                            [Weeps.


    Alb.
    Come, do not grieve for me, I shall be well,
    I yet find strength enough to get a way;
    And then I'le let thee know my fate and thine.
                                            [Exeunt.


    SCENE. IV.

    Enter Clarina, Ismena, and Isabella weeping.



    Isab.
    For Heavens sake, Madam, pardon me.

    Clar.
    Be dumb for ever false and treacherous woman,
    Was there no way but this to mask your Cheat?
    A Lye which has undone us all.

    Isab.
    Alas, 'twas in the dark, how could I know him?
    Pray forgive it me, and try my future service.

    Clar.
    I never will forgive thee naughty Girl;
    Alberto now incens'd, will tell Antonio all.

    Isab.
    What need you care Madam?
    You are secure enough.

    Clar.
    Thou salv'st an error with a greater still;
    Dost thou not know Antonio's Jealousie,
    Which yet is moderate, rais'd to a higher pitch,
    May ruine me, Ismena, and thy self?

    Ism.
    Sister, there cannot be much harm in this,
    'Tis an ill chance, 'tis true, for by it we have lost
    The pleasure of an innocent revenge
    Upon Antonio; but if understood,
    We have but miss'd that end.

    Clar.
    Oh Ismena!
    This Jealousie is an unapprehensive madness,
    A non-sence which does still abandon reason.

    Isab.
    Madam, early in the morning
    I'le to Alberto's Lodgings, and tell him the mistake.

    Clar.
    'Twil be too late.

    Ism.
    Sister, what think you if I go my self?

    Clar.
    You should not be so daring;
    Besides, I blush to think what strange opinion
    He'le entertain of me the while.

    Ism.
    Do not let that afflict you,
    Fetch my veil, and if Antonio chance to ask for me,
    Tell him I'me gone to Laura.
                                            [Ex. Isab.

    Believe me, I will set all strait again.

    Enter Isabella with the Veil.



    Clar.
    Thou hast more courage, Girl, then I.

    Ism.
    What need is there of much of that,
    To encounter a gay young Lover,
    Where I am sure there cannot be much danger?

    Clar.
    Well take your chance, I wish you luck Sir,
    For I am e'ne as much bent upon revenge,
    As thou art upon Marriage.

    Ism.
    Come, my Veil, this and the night
    Will enough secure me—
                                            [Puts on the Veil and goes out. Ex. Clar. and Isab.


    SCENE V.

    Discovers Alberto and Antonio.



    Alb.
    Nay, thou shalt see't before thou dost revenge it,
    In such a case, thy self should be the witness,
    She knows not what has past to night between us,
    Nor should she, if thou could'st contain thy rage;
    And that Antonio you shall promise me;
    To morrow place thy self behind the Arras,
    And from thy eyes thy own misfortunes know.
    —What will not disobliged passion do?
                                            [Aside.


    Ant.
    I'le hide my anger in a seeming calm,
    And what I have to do, consult the while,
    And mask my vengeance underneath a smile.
                                            [Ex. Antonio.


    Page.
    My Lord, there is without a Lady
    Desires to speak with you.

    Alb.
    Who is't?

    Page.
    I know not, Sir, she's veild.

    Enter Ismena weeping.



    Alb.
    Conduct her in.

    Ism.
    Oh Alberto, Isabella has undone us all!

    Alb.
    She weeps, and looks as innocent!
    —What mean you false dissembling Clarina?
    What, have you borrow'd from deceit new Charms?
    And think'st to fool me to a new belief.

    Ism.
    How Sir, can you too be unkind?
    Nay then 'tis time to dye;
    Alas, there wanted but your credit
    To this mistake, to make me truely miserable.

    Alb.
    What credit? what mistake? oh undeceive me,
    For I have done thee injuries past forgiveness,—
    If thou be'st truly innocent.

    Ism.
    Isabella, under pretence of courting me
    For Lorenzo, on whom she has designs to
    Make a Husband;
    Has given him freedoms will undo my honour,
    If not prevented soon.

    Alb.
    May I credit this? and that it was not by thy
    Command she did it.

    Ism.
    Be witness Heaven, my innocence in this,
    Which if you will believe, I'me safe again.

    Alb.
    I do believe thee, but thou art not safe.
    Here, take this Poyniard, and revenge thy wrongs,
    Wrongs which I dare not beg a pardon for.
                                            [He gives her a Dagger.


    Ism.
    Why, Sir, what have you done? have you
    Deceiv'd me, and do you not indeed Love me?

    Alb.
    Oh Clarina! do not ask that question,
    Too much of that has made me ruine thee;
    It made me jealous, drunk with jealousie,
    And then I did unravel all my secrets.

    Ism.
    What secrets, Sir? you have then seen Antonio.

    Alb.
    Yes.

    Ism.
    Hah—Now Wit if ere thou didst possess
                                            [Aside.

    A Woman; assist her at her need.
    —Well Sir, rise and tell me, all;

    Alb.
    I will not rise till you have pardon'd me,
    Or punisht my misfortune.

    Ism.
    Be what it will I do forgive it thee.

    Alb.
    Antonio Madam knows my happiness,
    For in my rage I told him that you lov'd me;
    —What shall I do?

    Ism.
    I cannot blame you though it were unkind.

    Alb.
    This I could help, but I have promis'd him,
    That he shall be a witness of this truth;
    What say you Madam do I not merit death?
    Oh speak and let me know my doom what ere it be?

    Ism.
    Make good your word.

    Alb.
    What mean you?

    Ism.
    What you have promis'd him, perform as you intended.

    Alb.
    What then?

    Ism.
    Then come as you design'd to visit me.

    Alb.
    But let me know what 'tis you mean to do,
    That I may Act accordingly.

    Ism.
    No. Answer me to every question ask'd,
    And I perhaps may set all straight again;
    'Tis now late, and I must not be missing,
    But if you love me, be no more Jealous of me.
    —Farewel.

    Alb.
    Must I be Ignorant then of your design?

    Ism.
    Yes, Alberto.
    And you shall see what Love will make a Woman do.
                                            [He leads her out.


    Alb.
    Now am I caught again, inconstant Nature.
    —Would she had less of Beauty or of Wit,
    Or that Antonio did but less deserve her;
    —Or that she were not married,
    Or I'de less Virtue, for 'tis that which aws me,
    That tender sense of nothing:
    And makes the other Reasons seem as Bugbears,
    —I Love Clarina more than he can do;
    And yet this Virtue doth oppose that Love,
    Tells me there lurks a treason there
    Against Antonio's and Clarina's Virtue;
    —'Tis but too true indeed, and I'm not safe,
    Whilst I conceal the Criminal within
    —I must reveal it, for whilst I hide the Traytor
    I seem to Love the Treason to,
    —I will resign it then, since 'tis less blame,
    To perish by my pain, then live with shame.
                                            [Exit.


    ACT. III.



    SCENE. I.

    Enter Frederick and Laura.



    Fred.
    Laura, Consider well my quality,
    And be not angry with your Fathers Confidence,
    Who left us here alone.

    Lau.
    He will repent that Freedom when he knows,
    What use you've made on't Sir.

    Fred.
    Fy, fy, Laura, a Lady bred at Court, and
    Yet want Complaisance enough to entertain
    A Gallant in private: this coy Humour
    Is not Ala mode.
    —Be not so peevish with a heart that dyes for you.

    Lau.
    Pray tell me Sir, what is't in me that can
    Encourage this?

    Fred.
    That which is in all Lovely Women, Laura;
    A thousand blushes play about your Cheeks,
    Which shows the briskness of the blood that warms them.
    —If I but tell you how I do adore you,
    You straight decline your Eyes,
    Which does declare you understand my meaning,
    And every smile or frown betrays your thoughts,
    And yet you cry, you do not give me cause.
                                            [Enter Maid.


    Maid.
    Curtius Madam waits without.

    Fred.
    I do not like his haste.
    —Tell him he cannot be admitted now.

    Lau.
    Sir, he is one that merits better treatment from you;
    How can you injure thus the Man you Love?

    Fred.
    Oh Madam ask your Eyes,
    Those powerful Attracts,
    And do not call their Forces so in question,
    As to believe they kindle feeble fires;
    Such as a Friendship can surmount. No Laura,
    They've done far greater miracles.

    Lau.
    Sir 'tis in vain you tell me of their power,
    Unless they could have made a nobler Conquest
    Then hearts that yield to every petty Victor.
    —Look on me well,
    Can nothing here inform you of my Soul,
    And how it scorns to treat on these conditions.
                                            [Looks on him, he gazes with a half smile.


    Fred.
    Faith, no Laura.
    I see nothing there but wondrous Beauty,
    And a deal of needless Pride, and scorn;
    And such as may be humbl'd.

    Lau.
    Sir you mistake, that never can abate,
    But yet I know your power may do me injuries;
    But I believe your guilty of no sin,
    Save your inconstancy which is sufficient;
    And Sir I beg I may not be the first
                                            [Kneels and weeps.

    May find new Crimes about you.

    Fred.
    Rise Laura thou hast but too many Beautyes,
    Which pray be careful that you keep conceal'd.
                                            [offers to go.


    Lau.
    I humbly thank you Sir.

    Fred.
    —But why should this interposing Virtue check me.
    —Stay Laura tell me; must you marry Curtius?

    Lau.
    Yes Sir, I must.

    Fred.
    Laura you must not.

    Lau.
    How Sir!

    Fred.
    I say you shall not marry him,
    Unless you offer up a victim,
    That may appease the anger you have rais'd in me.

    Lau.
    Ile offer up a 1000. prayers and tears.

    Fred.
    That will not do.
    Since thou'st deny'd my just pretentions to thee,
    No less then what I tould you off shall satisfy me.

    Lau.
    Oh where is all your Honour, and your Virtue?

    Fred.
    Just where it was, there's no such real thing.
    I know that thou wert made to be possest,
    And he that does refuse it, loves thee least.
    —There's danger in my Love, and your delay,
    And you are most secure whilst you obey.
                                            [He pulls her gently.


    Lau.
    Then this shall be my safety, hold off,
                                            [She draws a Dagger.

    Or I'l forget you are my Prince.
                                            [He laughs.


    Fred.
    Pretty Virago, how you raise my Love?
    —I have a Dagger too; What will you do?
                                            [Shows her a Dagger.

    Enter Curtius.



    Cur.
    How! the Prince! arm'd against Laura too!
                                            [Draws.


    Fred.
    Traytor, dost draw upon thy Prince?

    Cur.
    Your Pardon Sir, I meant it on a Ravisher.
                                            [Bows.

    A foul misguided Villain.
    One that scarce merits the brave name of Man.
    One that betrays his friend, forsakes his Wife;
    And would commit a Rape upon my Mistress.

    Fred.
    Her presence is thy safety, be gone and leave me.

    Cur.
    By no means Sir; the Villain may return;
    To which fair Laura should not be expos'd.

    Fred.
    Slave darst thou disobey?
                                            [Offers to fight.


    Cur.
    Hold Sir, and do not make me guilty of a sin,
    Greater then that of yours.
                                            [Enter Salvator.


    Salv.
    Gods pitty me; here's fine doings.—Why how
    Came this ristring Youngster into my House? Sir,
    Who sent for you, Hah?

    Cur.
    Love.

    Salv.
    Love, with a witness to whom? my Daughter?
    —No Sir, she's otherwise dispos'd of I can assure
    You. Begone and leave my House and that quickly
    Too. And thank me that I do not secure
    Thee for a Traytor.

    Cur.
    Will you not here me speak?

    Salv.
    Not a word Sir, go begone; unless your
    Highness will have him apprehended.
                                            [To Fred.


    Fred.
    No Sir, it shall not need.—
                                            Curtius look

    To hear from me.—
                                            [Comes up to him and tells him so in a menacing tone, and go out severally.


    Salv.
    Go Mrs. Minks, get you in.
                                            [Ex. Salv. and Laur.


    SCENE II.

    Enter Frederick passing in anger over the Stage, meets Lorenzo.



    Lor.
    O Sir, I'm glad I've found you; for
    I have the rarest news for you.

    Fred.
    What news?

    Lor.
    Oh the Devil, he's angry;—Why Sir the
    Prettyest young—

    Fred.
    There's for your intelligence.
                                            [Strikes him and goes out.


    Lor.
    So very well; How Mortal is the favour of
    Princes: these be turns of State now; what the
    Devil ails he trow; sure he could not be
    Offended with the news I have brought him; if he be he's
    Strangely out of Tune;
    And sure he has too much Wit to grow Virtuous at these
    Years: No, no, he has had some repulse from a
    Lady; and that's a wonder; for he has a Tongue and a
    Purse that seldom fails; if youth and vigour would
    Stretch as far, he were the wonder of the Age.
                                            [Enter Curt.


    Curt.
    Lorenzo, didst thou see the Prince?

    Lor.
    Marry did I, and feel him too.

    Curt.
    Why, did he strike you?

    Lor.
    I'm no true subject if he did not; and that
    Only for doing that service which once was most acceptable
    To him.—Prethee whats the matter with him, hah?

    Cur.
    I know not, leave me.

    Lor.
    Leave thee, what art thou out of humour too?
    Let me but know who 'tis has disoblig'd thee, and Ile—

    Cur.
    What wilt thou?

    Lor.
    Never see his face more if a Man.

    Cur.
    And what if a Woman?

    Lor.
    Then she's an Idle peevish Slut I'le warrant her.

    Cur.
    Conclude it so and leave me.

    Lor.
    Nay now thou hast said the only thing that could,
    Keep me with thee, thou maist be desperate; I'le
    Tell you Curtius these Female mischiefs make men
    Take dangerous resolutions sometimes.
                                            [Enter Alber.


    Alb.
    Curtius, I've something to deliver to your Ear.
                                            [Whispers.


    Curt.
    Any thing from Alberto is welcom.

    Lor.
    Well I will be hang'd if there be not some
    Mischief in Agitation; it cannot be wenching;
    They look all too dull and sober for that; and besides
    Then I should have been a party concern'd.

    Cur.
    The place and time.

    Alb.
    An hour hence i'th' Grove by the River side.

    Cur.
    Alone thou say'st?

    Alb.
    Alone, the Prince will have it so.

    Cur.
    I will not fail a moment.
                                            [Ex. Alb.

    —So this ha's eas'd my heart of half its load.

    Lor.
    I'le sneak away, for this is some fighting
    Business, and I may perhaps be invited a second,
    A Complement I care not for.
                                            [Offers to go.


    Cur.
    Lorenzo, a word with you.

    Lor.
    'Tis so, what shall I do now?
                                            [Aside.


    Cur.
    Stay.

    Lor.
    I am a little in haste my Lord.

    Cur.
    I shall soon dispatch you.

    Lor.
    I beleive so, for I am half dead already
                                            [Aside.

    With fear; Sir, I have promis'd to make a visit
    To a Lady, and—

    Cur.
    What I've to say shall not detain you long.

    Lor.
    What a Dog was I, I went not,
    When he first desir'd me to go?
    Oh impertinency, thou art justly rewarded!

    Cur.
    Lorenzo, may I believe you love me?

    Lor.
    Now what shall I say, I or no?
                                            [Aside.

    The Devil take me if I know.

    Cur.
    Will you do me a favour?

    Lor.
    There 'tis again.
                                            [Aside.


    Cur.
    I know I may trust thee with a secret.

    Lor.
    Truly, Curtius, I cannot tell,
    In some cases I am not very retentive.

    Cur.
    I am going about a business, that perhaps
    May take up all the time I have to live,
    And I may never see thy Sister more;
    Will you oblige me in a message to her?

    Lor.
    You know you may command me;
    —I'me glad 'tis no worse.
                                            [Aside.


    Cur.
    Come go with me into my Cabinet,
    And there I'le write to Laura;
    And prethee if thou hear'st that I am dead,
    Tell her I fell a Sacrifice to her,
    And that's enough, she understands the rest:

    Lor.
    But harky Curtius, by your favour, this is but a
    Scurvy tale to carry to your Mistress;
    I hope you are not in earnest?

    Cur.
    Yes.

    Lor.
    Yes? why, what a foolish idle humour's this in you?
    I vow 'twill go near to break the poor Girls heart;
    —Come be advis'd man.

    Cur.
    Perhaps I may consider on't for that reason.

    Lor.
    There are few that go about such businesses,
    But have one thing or other to consider in favour of life,
    I find that even in the most magnanimous:
    —Prethee who is't with?

    Cur.
    That's counsel; and pray let this too which I have
    Told you be a secret, for 'twill concern your life.

    Lor.
    Good Curtius take it back again then,
    For a hundred to one but my over care of keeping it,
    Will betray it.

    Cur.
    Thou lovest thy self better.

    Lor.
    Well that's a comfort yet.
                                            [Exeunt.


    SCENE III.

    A Wood.

    Enter Cloris drest like a Country Boy, follow'd by Guilliam a Clown; Cloris comes reading a Letter.



    Clo. reads.
    Cloris beware of men; for though I my self be one,
    Yet I have the frailties of my Sex, and can dissemble too;
    Trust none of us, for if thou dost, thou art undone;
    We make vows to all alike we see.
    And even the best of men, the Prince,
    Is not to be credited in an affair of Love.
    —Oh Curtius, thy advice was very kind,
    Had it arriv'd before I'de been undone!
    —Can Frederick too be false?
    A Prince, and be unjust to her that loves him too?
    —Surely it is impossible—
    Perhaps thou lov'st me too, and this may be
                                            [Pointing to the Letter.

    Some Plot of thine to try my constancy:
    —How e're it be, since he could fail last night
    Of seeing me, I have at least a cause to justifie
    This shameful change; and sure in this disguise,
                                            [Looks on her self.

    I shall not soon be known, dost think I shall?

    Guil.
    Why forsooth, what do you intend to pass for,
    A Maid or a Boy?

    Clor.
    Why, what I seem to be, will it not do?

    Guil.
    Yes, yes, it may do, but I know not what;
    I wo'd Love would Transmogriphy me to a Maid now,
    —We should be the prettiest couple;
    Don't you remember when you drest me up the last
    Carnival, was not I the woundiest handsom lass
    A body could see in a Summers day?
    There was Claud the Shepherd as frekish after me
    I'le warrant you, and simper'd and tript it like any thing.

    Clor.
    I, but they say 'tis dangerous for young
    Maids to live at Court.

    Guil.
    Nay, then I should be loth to give temptation.
    —Pray forsooth, what's that you read so often there?

    Clor.
    An advice to young Maids that are in Love.

    Guil.
    I, I, that same Love is a very vengeance thing,
    Wo'd I were in Love too; I see it makes a body Valiant;
    One neither feels hunger nor cold that is possest with it.

    Clor.
    Thou art i'th' right, it can do miracles.

    Guil.
    So it seems, for without a miracle you and I could never
    Have rambled about these Woods all night without either
    Bottle or Wallet: I could e'ne cry for hunger now.

    Clor.
    What a dull Soul this fellow hath?
    Sure it can never feel the generous pains
    Of Love, as mine does now; Oh how I glory
    To find my heart above the common rate;
    Were not my Prince inconstant!
    I would not envy what the blessed do above:
    But he is false good Heaven!—
                                            weeps.

                                            [Guil. howls.

    —What dost thou feel that thou shouldst weep with me?

    Guil.
    Nothing but hunger, sharp hunger forsooth.

    Clor.
    Leave calling me forsooth it will betray us.

    Guil.
    What shall I call you then?

    Clor.
    Call me Philibert, or any thing,
    And be familiar with me: put on thy Hat least any come and see us.

    Guil.
    'Tis a hard name but I'le learn it by heart.
    —Well Philibert—what shall we do when we come to Court
                                            [Puts on his Hat.

    Besides eating and drinking, which I shall do in abundance.

    Clor.
    We must get each of us a service.
    —But thou art such a Clown.

    Guil.
    Nay say not so honest Phillibert: for look yee,
    I am much the properer fellow of the two.
                                            [Walks.


    Clor.
    Well try thy fortune; but be sure you never discover
    Me, what ever questions may chance to be asked thee.

    Guil.
    I warrant the honest Lad, I am true and trusty;
    But I must be very familiar with you you say.

    Clor.
    Yes before Company.

    Guil.
    Pray let me begin and Practice a little now
    A'nt please you, for fear I should not be sawcy enough,
    When we arrive at Court.

    Clor.
    I'le warrant you you'l soon learn there.

    Guil.
    —Oh Lord Phillibert! Phillibert! I see a Man a coming
    Most deadly fine, lets run away.

    Clor.
    Thus thou hast serv'd me all this night,
    There's not a bush we come at but thou startst thus.

    Guil.
    'Tis true you are a lover and may stay the danger on't,
    But I'le make sure for one.

    Clor.
    It is the Prince, Oh Gods what makes he here!
    With looks disorder'd too; this place is fit for Death and sad
    Despair; the melancholy Spring a sleepy murmure makes,
    A proper Consort for departing Souls,
    When mixt with dying Grones, and the thick boughs
    Compose a dismal roof;
    Dark as the gloomy shades of Death or Graves:
    —He comes this way Ile hide my self a while.
                                            [Goes behind a Bush.

    Enter Frederick.



    Fred.
    But yet not this nor my dispight to Laura,
    Shall make me out of Love with life,
    Whilst I have youthful fires about my heart:
    —Yet I must fight with Curtius,
    And so chastise the Pride of that fond Maid,
    Whose saucy Virtue durst controul my flame;
    —And yet I love her not as I do Cloris;
    But fain I would have overcome that Chastity
    Of which the foolish Beauty boasts so.

    Clor.
    Curtius I thank thee, now I do believe thee.
                                            [The Prince walks.

    Guilliam. if thou seest any fighting anon,
    Be sure you run out and call some body.

    Guil.
    You need not bid me run away when I once
    See them go to that.

    Enter Curtius.



    Curt.
    Sir I am come as you commanded me.

    Fred.
    When you consider what you've lately done,
    You will not wonder why I sent for you;
    And when I mean to fight, I do not use to parly;
    Come draw.

    Curt.
    Show me my Enemy, and then if I am slow—

    Fred.
    I am he, needst thou one more powerful?

    Curt.
    You Sir, what have I done to make you so?

    Fred.
    If yet thou wantest a further proof of it,
    Know Ile dispute my Claim to Laura.

    Curt.
    That must not be with me Sir,
    God forbid that I should raise my Arm against my Prince:
    —If Laura have so little Faith and Virtue,
    To render up that right belongs to me,
    With all my heart I yield her
    To any but to you;
    And Sir for your own sake you must not have her.

    Fred.
    Your Reason?

    Curt.
    Sir you're already marryed.

    Fred.
    Thou lyest, and seek'st excuses for thy Cowardice.

    Curt.
    I wish you would recall that hasty injury,
    Yet this Ile bear from you, who know 'tis false.

    Fred.
    Will nothing move thee?

    Curt.
    You would believe so Sir if I should tell you
    That besides all this, I have a juster cause.

    Fred.
    Juster then that of Laura? call it up then,
    And let it save thee from a further shame.

    Curt.
    Yes so I will 'tis that of Cloris,
    Who needs my aids much more;
    Do you remember such a Virgin Sir?
    For so she was till she knew Frederick;
    The sweetest innocent that ever Nature made.

    Fred.
    Not thy own Honour, nor thy Love to Laura
    Would make the draw, and now at Cloris name,
    Thou art incens'd, thy eyes all red with rage:
    —Oh thou hast rows'd my Soul;
    Nor would I justify my wrongs to her,
    Unless it were to satisfy my jealousie,
    Which thou hast rais'd in me by this concern.
    —Draw or I'le kill thee.

    Curt.
    Stay Sir, and hear me out.

    Fred.
    I will not stay, now I reflect on all thy
    Former kindness to her—

    Curt.
    I will not fight, but I'l defend my self.
                                            [They fight.


    Fred.
    We are betray'd.

    Curt.
    Yes Sir, and you are wounded.
                                            [Guil. runs bawling out, they are both wounded.


    Clor.
    Oh Heaven defend the Prince.
                                            [She peeps.


    Fred.
    I hear some coming, go be gone,
    And save thy self by flight.
                                            [Fred. stands leaning on his Sword.


    Curt.
    Sir give me leave to stay, my flight will look like guilt.

    Fred.
    By no means Curtius, thou wilt be taken here,
    And thou shalt never charge me with that Crime of betraying
    Thee: when we meet next wee'l end it.

    Curt.
    I must obey you then.
                                            [Exit Curt.

    Enter Cloris.



    Clor.
    Sir, has the Villain hurt you?
                                            [She supports him.

    —Pray Heaven my sorrows do not betray me now,
    For since he's false, I fain would dy conceal'd.
                                            [Aside.

    —Show me your wound and I will ty it up.
    Alas you bleed extreamly—

    Fred.
    Kind youth thy succours are in vain though welcom,
    For though I bleed I am not wounded much.

    Clor.
    No? Why did you let him pass unpunisht then,
    Who would have hurt you more?

    Enter Guillam with a Galliard.



    Serv.
    Where was't?

    Guil.
    Look ye Sir there, don't you see them.

    Serv.
    How does your Highness? this fellow told me
    Of a quarrel here, which made me hast.

    Fred.
    Be silent, and carry me to my own apartment.

    Serv.
    Alas Sir, is it you that fought?

    Fred.
    No more questions.—
    Kind Boy pray leave me not till I have found
    A way to recompence thy pretty care of me.

    Clor.
    I will wait on you Sir.
                                            [Exeunt all but Guillam.

    Enter Lorenzo.


                                            [Peeps first.


    Lor.
    What's the matter here? the Prince is wounded too.
    Oh what a Dog was I to know of some such thing,
    And not secure them all?

    Lorenzo stands gazing at Gill.

    Guil. stands tabering his Hat a