The great Duke of Florence A comicall historie. As it hath beene often presented with good allowance by her Maties Servants at the Phœnix in Drurie Lane. Written by Philip Massinger.

The great Duke of Florence A comicall historie. As it hath beene often presented with good allowance by her Maties Servants at the Phœnix in Drurie Lane. Written by Philip Massinger.

Table of contents

Title page

§

TO THE TRULY HONORED, AND MY NOBLE Favourer, Sir ROBERT WISEMAN Knight, of Thorrells Hall in ESSEX.

On his great Duke of Florence; To Mr. PHILIP MASSINGER, my much esteemed friend.

To the deserving memory, of this worthy Worke, and the Author, Mr. PHILIP MASSINGER.

A COMICAL HISTORY OF THE GREAT DVKE OF FLORENCE.

1

Actus primi Scena prima.

Actus primi Scaena secunda.

2

Actus secundi Scaena prima.

Actus secundi Scaena secunda.

Actus secundi Scaena tertia.

3

Actus tertij Scaena prima.

4

Actus quarti Scaena prima.

Actus quarti Scaena secunda.

5

Actus quinti Scaena prima.

Actus quinti Scaena ultima.

§

§

[Page]

[Page]

THE GREAT DVKE OF FLORENCE.

A Comicall Historie.

As it hath beene often presented with good allowance by her Maties Servants at the Phoenix in Drurie Lane.

Written by PHILIP MASSINGER.

LONDON: Printed for JOHN MARRIOT. 1636.

§

§

The Actors names.

[Page]COzimo, Duke of Florence.

Giovanni, Nephew to the Duke.

Lodovico Sanazarro, the Dukes Favorite.

Carolo Charomonte, Giovanni his Tutor.

Contarino, Secretary to the Duke.

Counsailors of State.

Alphonso,

Hippolito,

Hieronimo,

Calandrino, A merrie fellow servant to Giovanni.

Servants to Carolo Charomonte.

Bernardo,

Caponi,

Petruchio,

Fiorinda, Dutchesse of Urbin.

Lidia, daughter to Carolo Charomonte

Calaminta, Servant to Fiorinda.

Petronella, Servant to Lidia.

TO THE TRULY HONORED, AND MY NOBLE Favourer, Sir ROBERT WISEMAN Knight, of Thorrells Hall in ESSEX.

[Page]

SIR:

AS I dare not be ungratefull for the many benefits you have heretofore conferr'd upon me, so I have just reason to feare that my attempting this way to make satisfaction (in some measure) for so due a debt, will further ingage me. However examples encourage me. The most able in my poore Quality have made use of Dedications in this Nature, to make the world take notice (as farre as in them lay) who, and what they were that gave supportment, and protection to their Studies, being more willing to publish the Dooer, then receive a benefit in a corner. For my selfe, I wil freely, and [Page] with a zealous thankfulnesse acknowledge, that for many yeares I had but faintly subsisted, if I had not often tasted of your Bounty. But it is above my strength, and faculties, to celebrate to the desert, your noble inclination, (and that made actuall) to raise up, or to speak more properly, to rebuild the ruines of demolish'd Poesie. But that is a worke reserved, and will be, no doubt, undertaken, and finished, by one that can to the life expresse it. Accept I beseech you the tender of my service, and in the list of those you have obliged to you, contemne not the Name of

Your true and faithfull Honorer PHILIP MASSINGER.

On his great Duke of Florence; To Mr. PHILIP MASSINGER, my much esteemed friend.

[Page]

ENjoy thy Lawrell! 'tis a noble choice,

Not by the suffrages of voice

Procur'd; but by a conquest so atchiev'd

As that thou hast at full reliev'd

Almost neglected Poetrie; whose Bayes

(Sullid by childish thirst of praise)

Wither'd into a dulnesse of Despaire,

Had not thy later labour (heire

Vnto a former industrie) made knowne

This Work, which thou may'st call thine owne,

So rich in worth, that th'ignorant may grudge

To finde true vertue is become their Iudge.

GEORGE DONNE.

To the deserving memory, of this worthy Worke, and the Author, Mr. PHILIP MASSINGER.

[Page]

ACtion gives many Poems right to live,

This Piece gave life to Action; and will give

For state, and language, in each change of Age,

To Time, delight; and honour to the stage.

Should late prescription faile which fames that Seat,

This Pen, might style The Duke of Florence Great.

Let many Write; Let much be Printed; read,

And censur'd; Toyes; no sooner-hatch't, then dead.

Here, without blush to Truth of commendation,

Is prov'd, how Art hath out-gone Imitation.

IOHN FORD.

A COMICAL HISTORY OF THE GREAT DVKE OF FLORENCE.

[Page]

1

Actus primi Scena prima.

Carolo Charomonte.

Contarino.

Carolo.

YOu bring your welcome with you.

Contarino.

Sir, I finde it

In every circumstance.

Carolo.

Againe most welcome.

Yet give me leave to wish (and pray you excuse mee)

For I must use the freedome I was borne with)

The great Dukes pleasure had commanded you

To my poore house upon some other service,

Not this you are designde to; but his will

Must be obeyde, how ere it ravish from me

The happy conversation of one

As deere to me as the old Romans held

Their houshold Lars, whom they beleev'd had power

To blesse and guard their Families.

Contarino.

'Tis receiv'd so:

On my part Signior; nor can the Duke

But promise to himselfe as much as may

Be hop'd for from a Nephew. And t'were weaknesse

In any man to doubt, that Giovanni

Train'd up by your experience and care

In all those Arts peculiar, and proper

To future Greatnesse, of necessity

Must in his actions being growne a man

Make good the Princely education

Which Hee deriv'd from you.

Carolo.

I have discharg'd,

To the utmost of my power, the trust the Duke

Committed to me, and with joy perceive

[Page] The seed of my endeavours was not sowen

Upon the barren sands, but fruitfull glebe,

Which yeelds a large encrease; my noble Charge,

By his sharp wit, and pregnant apprehension

Instructing those that teach him; making use

Not in a vulgar and pedantique forme

Of what's read to him, but 'tis streight digested

And truly made his owne. His grave discourse,

In one no more indebted unto yeares,

Amazes such as heare him; horsmanship

And skill to use his weapon are by practise

Familiar to him; as for Knowledge in

Musique, He needs it not, it being borne with him,

All that He speaks being with such grace deliver'd

That it makes perfit harmony.

Contarino.

You describe

A wonder to me.

Carolo.

Sir, he is no lesse,

And that there may be nothing wanting that

May render him compleat, the sweetnesse of

His disposition so winnes on all

Appointed to attend him, that they are

Rivalls ev'n in the coursest office, who

Shall get praecedencie to doe him service.

Which they esteeme a greater happinesse

Then if they had beene fashion'd, and built up

To hold command o're others.

Contarino.

And what place

Does he now blesse with his presence?

Carolo.

He is now

Running at the ring, at which he's excellent.

He does alott for every exercise

A severall houre, for Sloath the Nurse of vices

And rust of action, is a stranger to him.

But I feare I am tedious, let us passe

If you please to some other subject, though I cannot

Deliver him as he deserves.

Contarino.

You have giv'n him

[Page] A noble character.

Carolo.

And how I pray you

(For we that never looke beyond our villa's

Must be inquisitive) are State affaires

Carried in Court?

Contarino.

There's little alteration.

Some rise, and others fall; as it stands with

The pleasure of the Duke, their great disposer.

Carolo.

Does Lodovica Sanazarro hold

Waight, and grace with him?

Contarino.

Every day new honours

Are showr'd upon him, and without the envie

Of such as are good men. Since all confesse

The service done our Master in his warres

'Gainst Pisa, and Sienna, may with justice

Claime what's conferr'd upon him.

Carolo.

'Tis said nobly.

For Princes never more make knowne their wisdome

Then when they cherish goodnesse, where they finde it,

They being men, and not Gods, Contarino;

They can give wealth and titles, but no vertues;

That is without their power. When they advance

(Not out of judgement, but deceiving fancie)

An undeserving man, how ere set of

With all the trim of greatnesse, state, and power,

And of a creature ev'n growne terrible

To him from whom he tooke his Gyant forme,

This thing is still a Comet, no true starre;

And when the bounties feeding his false fire

Begin to faile, will of it selfe goe out,

And what was dreadfull, prooves ridiculous.

But in our Sanazarro 'tis not so.

He being pure and tride gold, and any stamp

Of grace to make him currant to the world

The Duke is pleas'd to give him, will adde honor

To the great bestower, for he though allow'd

Companion to his Master, still preserves

His Majestie in full lustre.

[Page]Contarino.

Hee indeede

At no part does take from it, but becomes

A partner of his cares, and eases him,

With willing shoulders, of a burthen, which

Hee should alone sustaine.

Carolo.

Is Hee yet married?

Contarino.

No Signior, still a Batchelor, how e're

It is apparent, that the choycest Virgin

For beauty, bravery, and wealth in Florence,

Would with her Parents glad consent, be woon

(Were his affection, and intent but knowne)

To be at his devotion.

Carolo.

So I think too.

Enter Giovanni & Calandrino.

But break we off. Here comes my Princely charge.

Make your approaches boldly, you will finde

A courteous entertainment.

Giovanni.

Pray you forbeare

My hand, good Signior. 'Tis a ceremony

Not due to me. 'Tis fit we should embrace

With mutuall armes.

Contarino.

It is a favour Sir

I grieve to be denide.

Giovanni.

You shall o're-come.

But tis your pleasure, not my pride that grants it.

Nay pray you Guardian, and good Sir, put on:

How ill it shewes to have that reverend head

Be uncover'd to a Boy?

Carolo.

Your Excellence

Must give me liberty to observe the distance

And duty that l'owe you.

Giovanni.

Owe me duty?

I doe professe, and when I'doe denie it

Good fortune leave me; You have beene to me

A second Father, and may justly challenge

(For trayning up my youth in Arts, and Armes)

As much respect, and service, as was due

To him that gave me life. And did you know Sir

Or will beleeve from me, how many sleepes

[Page] Good Charomonte hath broken in his care

To build me up a man, you must confesse

Chiron the Tutor to the great Achilles

Compar'd with him, deserves not to be nam'd.

And if my gracious Uncle the great Duke

Still holds me worthy his consideration,

Or findes in me ought worthy to be lov'd,

That little rivolet flow'd from this spring,

And so from me report him.

Contarino.

Fame already

Hath fill'd his Highnesse eares with the true story

Of what you are, and how much better'd by him.

And 'tis his purpose to reward the travaile

Of this grave Sir with a magnificent hand.

For though his tendernesse hardly could consent

To have you one houre absent from his sight,

For full three yeares he did denie himselfe

The pleasure Hee tooke in you, that you, here

From this great Master might arrive unto

The Theory of those high mysteries

Which you by action must make plaine in Court.

'Tis therefore his request (and that from him

Your Excellence must grant a strict command)

That instantly (it being not five houres riding)

You should take horse, and visit him. These his letters

Will yeeld you farther reasons.

Calandrino.

To the Court!

Farewell the flower then of the Countries garland.

This is our Sunne, and when Hee's set, we must not

Expect or Spring, or Summer, but resolve

For a perpetuall Winter.

Carolo.

Pray you observe

Giovanni reading the Letter.

The frequent changes in his face.

Contarino.

As if

His much unwillingnesse to leave your house,

Contended with his duty.

Carolo.

Now he appeares

Collected and resolv'd.

[Page]Giovanni.

It is the Duke!

The Duke upon whose favour, all my hopes

And fortunes doe depend. Nor must I check

At his commands for any private motives

That doe invite my stay here, though they are

Almost not to be master'd. My obedience

In my departing suddenly shall confirme

I am his Highnesse creature. Yet I hope

A little stay to take a solemne farewell

For all those ravishing pleasures I have tasted

In this my sweet retirement, from my Guardian,

And his incomparable daughter, cannot meete

An ill construction.

Contarino.

I will answer that,

Use your owne will.

Giovanni.

I would speake to your Sir

In such a phrase as might expresse the thanks

My heart would gladly pay. But. —

Carolo.

I conceive you:

And something I would say, but I must doe it

In that dumb rhetorique, which you make use of;

For I doe wish you all. — I know not how

My toughnesse melts, and spite of my discretion

I must turne woman.

Contarino.

What a sympathic

There is betweene em.

Calandrino.

Were I on the Rack

I could not shed a teare. But I am mad,

And ten to one shall hang my selfe for sorrow

Before I shift my shirt. But heare you Sir,

I'll separate you. When you are gone, what will

Become of me?

Giovan.

Why thou shalt to Court with me.

Calandrino.

To see you worried?

Contarino.

Worried Calandrino?

Caland.

Yes Sir. For bring this sweet face to the Court

There will be such a longing 'mong the Madames,

Who shall ingrosse it first, nay fight and scratch for't,

[Page] That if they be not stop'd, for entertainment

They'll kisse his lips off. Nay, if you'll soape so

And not be tempted to a farther danger,

These Succube are so sharp set, that you must

Give out you are an Eunuch.

Contarino.

Have a better

Opinion of Court-Ladies, and take care

Of your owne stake.

Calandrino.

For my stake 'tis past caring,

I would not have a bird of uncleane feathers

Hansell his Limetwig, and so much for him.

There's something else that troubles me.

Contarino.

What's that?

Caland.

Why how to behave my self in Court, & tytely

I have beene told the very place transformes men,

And that not one of a thousand, that before

Liv'd honestly in the Country, on plaine Sallads,

But bring him thither, marke me that, and feed him

But a moneth or two with Custards and Court Cakebread,

And he turnes Knave immediately. I would be honest;

But I must follow the fashion, or die a beggar.

Giovanni.

And if I ever reach my hopes, beleeve it

We will share fortunes.

Carolo.

This acknowledgement

Enter Lidia.

Bindes me your debtor ever. Here comes one

In whose sad lookes you easily may reade

What her heart suffers, in that she is forc'd

To take her last leave of you.

Contarino.

As I live

A beauty without parallel

Lidia.

Must you goo then

So suddenly?

Giovanni.

There's no evasion, Lydia,

To gaine the least delay, though I would buy it

At any rate. Greatnesse with private men

Esteem'd a blessing, is to me a curse.

And we, whom for our high births, they conclude

The onely free men, are the onely slaves:

[Page] Happy the golden meane I had I beene borne

In a poore sordid Cottage; not nurs'd up

With expectation to command a Court:

I might, like such of your condition (Sweetest)

Have tooke a safe and middle course, and not

As I am now against my choyse compell'd

Or to lye groveling on the earth, or rais'd

So high upon the pinnacles of State,

That I must either keepe my height with danger,

Or fall with certaine ruine.

Lidia.

Your owne goodnesse

Will be your faithfull guard.

Giovanni.

O Lidia.

Contarino.

So passionate!

Giovanni.

For had I beene your equall

I might have seene and lik'd with mine own eyes,

And not as now with others; I might still,

And without observation, or envie,

As I have done, continued my delights

With you, that are alone in my esteeme

The abstract of Society; we might walke

In solitary Groves, or in choyce Gardens;

From the variety of curious flowers

Contemplate natures workmanship, and wonders.

And then for change, neare to the murmur of

Some bubling fountaine, I might heare you sing,

And from the well-tun'd accents of your tongue

In my imagination conceive

With what mellodious harmony a Quire

Of Angells sing above, their Makers praises.

And then with chast discourse, as we return'd,

Impe feathers to the broken wings of Time,

And all this I must part from.

Contarino.

You forget

The hast impoi'd upon us.

Giovanni.

One word more

And then I come. And after this, when with

Continued innocence, of love, and service,

[Page] I had growne ripe for Hymenaeall joyes

Embracing you, but with a lawfull flame

I might have beene your husband.

Lidia.

Sir, I was

And ever am your servant, but it was,

And 'tis farre from me, in a thought to cherish

Such sawcie hopes: If I had beene the heire

Of all the Globes and Scepters mankind bowes to,

At my best you had deserv'd me; as I am

How e're unworthy, in my virgin zeale

I wish you as a partner of your bed,

A Princesse equall to you, such a one

That may make it the study of her life,

With all th'obedience of a wife to please you.

May you have happy issue, and I live

To be their humblest handmayde.

Giovanni.

I am dumb,

And can make no reply.

Contarino.

Your Excellence

Will be benighted.

Giovanni.

This kisse bath'd in teares

May learne you what I should say.

Lidia.

Give me leave

To wayt on you to your horse.

Carolo.

And me to bring you

To the one halfe of your journey.

Giovanni.

Your love puts

Your age to too much trouble.

Carolo.

I grow young

When most I serve you.

Conta.

Sir, the Duke shal thank you.

Exeunt omnes.

Actus primi Scaena secunda.

Alphonso,

Hippolito,

Hieronimo, with a Petition.

Alphonso.

HIs Highnesse cannot take it ill.

Hippolito.

However,

We with our duties shall expresse our care

[Page] For the safety of his Dukedome.

Hieronimo.

And our loves

Enter Cozimo the Duke.

To his person. Here he comes. Present it boldly.

Cozimo.

What needs this form? we are not grown so proud

As to disdaine familiar conference

With such as are to counsaile, and direct us.

This kinde of adoration shew'd not well

In the old Roman Emperors, who forgetting

That they were flesh & blood, would be styl'd gods,

In us to suffer it were worse. Pray you rise.

Still the old suit, with too much curiousnesse

Reades.

You have too often search'd this wound, which yeelds

Security and rest, not trouble to me.

For here you grieve, that my firme resolution

Continues me a Widdower; and that

My want of issue to succeede me in

My government, when I am dead, may breed

Distraction in the State, and make the name

And family of the Medices, now admir'd,

Contemptible.

Hippolito.

And with strong reasons Sir.

Alphonso.

For were you old and past hope to beget

The modell of your selfe; we should be silent.

Hieronimo.

But being in your height and pride of yeeres

As you are now great Sir, and having too

In your possession the daughter of

The deceas'd Duke of Vrbin, and his heire,

Whose Guardian you are made, were you but pleas'd

To think her worthy of you, besides children

The Dukedome she brings with her for a dower,

Will yeeld a large encrease of strength and power

To those faire territories, which already

Acknowledge you their absolute Lord.

Cozimo.

You presse us

VVith solid arguments we grant, and though

VVe stand not bound to yeeld account to any

VVhy we doe this or that (the full consent

Of our Subjects being included in our Will)

[Page] We out of our free bounties will deliver

The motives that divert us. You well know

That three yeeres since to our much griefe, we lost

Our Dutches, such a Dutches, that the world

In her whole course of life, yeelds not a Lady

That can with imitation deserve

To be her second: in her grave we buried

All thoughts of woman: let this satisfie

For any second marriage. Now whereas

You name the heire of Vrbin, as a Princesse

Of great revenues, 'tis confess'd she is so;

But for some causes private to our selfe,

We have dispos'd her otherwise. Yet despaire not,

For you ere long with joy shall understand,

That in our Princely care we have provided

One worthy to succeed us.

Enter Lodovico Sanazarro.

Hippolito.

We submit,

And hold the counsailes of great Cozimo

Oraculous.

Cozimo.

My Sanazaro. Nay,

Forbeare all ceremony. You looke sprightly friend,

And promise in your cleare aspect some novell

That may delight us.

Sanazarro.

O Sir, I would not be

The Harbinger of ought that might distast you.

And therefore know (for 'twere a sinne to torture

Your Highnesse expectation) your Vice-Admirall

By my directions hath surpriz'd the Gallies

Appointed to transport the Asian tribute

Of the great Turke, a richer Prize was never

Brought into Florence.

Cozimo.

Still my Nightingale,

That with sweet accents doest assure me, that

My Spring of happinesse comes fast upon me.

Embrace me boldly. I pronounce that wretch

An enemy to brave and thriving action,

That dares beleeve, but in a thought, we are

Too prodigall in our favours to this man,

[Page] Whose merits, though with him we should devide

Our Dukedome, still continuous his debtor.

Hippolito.

'Tis farre from me.

Alphonso.

We all applaud it.

Cozimo.

Nay, blush not Sanazarro, we are proud

Of what we build up in thee, nor can our

Election be disparag'd; since we have not

Receiv'd into our bosome and our grace

A glorious lazie Droane, growne fat with feeding

On others toyle, but an industrious Bee

That crops the sweet flowers of our enemies,

And every happy evening returnes

Loaden with wax and hony to our Hive.

Sanazarro.

My best endevours never can discharge

The service I should pay.

Enter Giovanni and Contarino.

Cozimo.

Thou art too modest,

But we will study how to give, and when,

Before it be demanded. Giovanni!

My Nephew; let me eye thee better Boy.

In thee me thinks my Sister lives againe:

For her love I will be a Father to thee,

For thou art my adopted Sonne.

Giovanni.

Your Servant

And humblest Subject.

Cozimo.

Thy hard travaile Nephew

Requires soft rest, and therefore we forbeare

For the present an account, how thou hast spent

Thy absent houres. See Signiors, see, our care

Without a second bed provides you of

A hopefull Prince. Carrie him to his Lodgings,

And for his farther honour Sanazarro

With the rest doe you attend him.

Giovanni.

All true pleasures

Circle your Highnesse.

Sanazarro.

As the rising Sunne

VVe doe receive you.

Giovan.

May this never set,

Exeunt Giovanni, Sanazarro, Hieronimo, Alphonso, Lodovico, Cozimo.

But shine upon you ever.

[Page]Cozimo.

Contarino!

Contarino.

My gracious Lord.

Cozimo.

What entertainment found you

From Carolo de Charamonte?

Contarino.

Free

And bountifull. He's ever like himselfe

Noble and hospitable.

Cozimo.

But did my Nephew

Depart thence willingly?

Contarino.

He obey'd your summons

As did become him. Yet it was apparent

But that he durst not crosse your will, he would

Have sojourn'd longer there, he ever finding

Variety of sweetest entertainment;

But there was something else, nor can I blame

His youth, though with some trouble he took leave

Of such a sweet companion.

Cozimo.

Who was it?

Contarino.

The daughter sir of Signior Carolo,

Faire Lidia, a virgin at all parts,

But in her birth and fortunes, equall to him.

The rarest beauties Italy can make boast of,

Are but meere shadowes to her, she the substance

Of all perfection. And what encreases

The wonder Sir, Her bodies matchlesse forme

Is better'd by the purenesse of her soule.

Such sweet discourse, such ravishing behaviour;

Such charming language, such inchanting manners,

With a simplicity that shames all Courtship,

Flow hourely from her, that I doe beleeve

Had Circe, or Calipso her sweet graces,

Wandring Vlisses never had remembred

Penelope, or Ithaca.

Cozimo.

Be not rap'd so.

Contarino.

Your Excellence would be so had you seen her

Cozimo.

Take up. Take up. But did your observation

Note any passage of affection

Betweene her and my Nephew?

[Page]Contarino.

How it should

Be otherwise betweene 'em, is beyond

My best imagination. Cupids arrowes

Were uselesse there, for of necessity

Their yeeres and dispositions doe accord so

They must wound one another.

Cozimo.

Umh! Thou art

My Secretary Contarino, and more skill'd

In politique designes of State, then in

Thy iudgement of a beauty; give me leave

In this to doubt it. Here. Goe to my Cabinet,

You shal find there Letters newly receiv'd touching the state of Vrbin.

Pray you with care peruse them, leave the search

Of this to us.

Contarino.

I doe obey in all things.

Exit Contarino.

Cozimo.

Lydia! A Diamond so long conceal'd,

And never worne in Court! of such sweet feature?

And he on whom I fixe my Dukedomes hopes,

Made Captive to it! Vmh! 'tis somewhat strange,

Our eyes are every where, and we will make

A strict enquiry, Sanazarro!

Enter Sanazarro.

Sanazarro.

Sir!

Cozimo.

Is my Nephew at his rest?

Sanazarro.

I saw him in bed Sir.

Cozimo.

'Tis well, and does the Princes Fiorinda

(Nay, doe not blush, she is rich Vrbins heire)

Continue constant in her favours to you?

Sanazarro.

Dread sir, she may dispense thē as she pleases,

But I looke up to her as on a Princesse

I dare not be ambitious of, and hope

Her prodigall graces shall not render me

Offended to your Highnesse.

Cozimo.

Not a scruple.

He whom I favour as I doe my friend,

May take all lawfull graces that become him.

But touching this hereafter; I have now

(And though perhaps it may appear or trifle)

Serious imployment for thee.

[Page]Sanazar.

I stand ready

For any act you please.

Cozimo.

I know it friend,

Have you ne're heard of Lidia the daughter

Of Carolo Charamonte?

Sanazar.

Him I know sir

For a noble Gentleman, and my worthy friend,

But never heard of her.

Cozimo.

She is deliver'd

And feelingly to us by Contarino

For a master-peece in nature, I would have you

Ride suddenly thither to behold this wonder:

But not as sent by us, that's our first caution:

The second is, and carefully observe it,

That though you are a Batchelor, & endow'd with

All those perfections that may take a virgin,

On forfeit of our favour doe not tempt her.

It may be her faire graces doe concerne us.

Pretend what businesse you think fit, to gaine

Accesse into her Fathers house, and there

Make full discovery of her, and returne me

A true relation, I have some ends in it

With which we will acquaint you.

Sanazar.

This is Sir

An easie taske.

Cozimo.

Yet one that must exact

Your secrecie, and diligence. Let not

Your stay be long.

Sanazar.

It shall not sir.

Cozimo.

Farewell,

And be, as you would keepe our favour, carefull.

Finis Actus primi.

2

Actus secundi Scaena prima.

Fiorinda.

Calaminta.

Fiorinda.

HOw does this dressing show?

Calaminta.

'Tis of itselfe

[Page] Curious and rare: but borrowing ornament

As it does from your Grace, that daine sto weare it,

Incomparable.

Fiorinda.

Thou flatter'st me.

Calaminta.

I cannot,

Your Excellence is above it.

Fiorinda.

Were we lesse perfect,

Yet being as we are an absolute Princesse,

We of necessity must be chast, wise, faire,

By our prerogative. Yet all these faile

To move where I would have them. How receiv'd

Count Sanazarro the rich Scarfe I sent him

For his last Visit?

Calaminta.

With much reverence,

I dare not say affection. He express'd

More ceremonie in his humble thanks

Then feeling of the favour; and appear'd

Wilfully ignorant in my opinion

Of what it did invite him to.

Fiorinda.

No matter,

He's blinde with too much light. Have you not heard

Of any private Mistresse he's ingag'd to?

Calaminta.

Not any, and this does amaze me Madame,

That he, a Souldier, one that drinks rich wines,

Feedes high, and promises as much as Venus

Could wish to finde from Mars, should in his manners

Be so averse to women.

Fiorinda.

Troth I know not,

He's man enough, and if he has a haunt,

He preyes farre off like a subtill Fox.

Calaminta.

And that way

I doe suspect him. For I learnt last night

(When the great Duke went to rest) attended by

One private follower, he tooke horse, but whither

He's rid, or to what end I cannot guesse at,

But I will finde it out.

Fiorinda.

Doe faithfull servant,

Enter Calandrino.

We would not be abus'd. Who have we here?

[Page]Calaminta.

How the foole stares?

Fiorinda.

And lookes as if he were

Conning his neck-verse.

Calandrino.

If I now proove perfect

In my A. B. C. of Courtship, Calandrino

Is made for ever, I am sent; let me see,

On a how doe you, as they call't.

Calaminta.

What would'st thou say?

Calan.

Let me see thy notes. These are her lodgings. Well.

Calaminta.

Art thou an Asse?

Caland.

Peace, thou art a Court wagtaile

Calandrino still looking on his instructions. Fi. o. rin. da.

To interrupt me.

Fiorinda.

He has giv'n it you.

Calandrino.

And then say to th'illustrious

I have it. VVhich is she?

Calaminta.

VVhy this; Fopdoodle.

Calan.

Leave chattering Bulfinch: you would put me out,

But 't will not doe. Then after you have made

Your three obeysances to her, kneele and kisse

The skirt of Gowne. I am glad it is no worse.

Calaminta.

And why so sir?

Calandrino.

Because I was afraid

That after the Italian garbe I should

Have kiss'd her backward.

Calaminta.

This is sport unlook'd for.

Calandrino.

Are you the Princesse?

Fiorinda.

Yes sir.

Calandrino.

Then stand faire

(For I am cholerick) and doe not nip

A hopefull blosome. Out againe. Three low

Reades.

Obeysances.

Fiorinda.

I am ready.

Calandrino.

I come on then.

Calaminta.

With much formality.

Makes Antique curtesies.

Calandrino.

Umph. One. two. three.

Thus farre I am right. Now for the last. O rare!

Shee is perfum'd all over! Sure great women

Instead of little dogges are priviledg'd

[Page] To carrie Musk Cats.

Fiorinda.

Now the ceremony

Is pass'd, what is the substance?

Calandrino.

I'll peruse

My instructions, and then tell you: Her skirt kiss'd,

Informe her Highnesse, that your Lord,

Calaminta.

Who's that?

Calandrino.

Prince Giovanni, who entreates your Grace,

That he with your good favour may have leave

To present his service to you. I think I have nick'd it

For a Courtier of the first forme.

Fiorinda.

To my wonder:

Enter Giovanni and a Gentleman.

Returne unto the Prince: but he prevents

My answer. Calaminta take him off,

And for the neate delivery of his message

Give him ten Duccats, such rare parts as yours

Are to be cherish'd.

Calandrino.

We will share. I know

It is the custome of the Court, when ten

Are promis'd, five is faire. Fie, fie, the Princesse

Shall never know it, so you dispatch me quickly,

And bid me not come to morrow.

Calaminta.

Very good sir.

Exeunt Calandrino and Calaminta.

Giovanni.

Pray you friend

Informe the Duke I am putting into act

What he commanded.

Gentleman.

I am proud to be imploy'd sir.

Exit Gentlemā. They salute.

Giovan.

Madam, that without warrant I presume

To trench upon your Privacies, may argue

Rudenesse of manners. But the free accesse

Your Princely courtesie vouchsafes to all

That come to pay their services, gives me hope

To finde a gracious pardon.

Fiorinda.

If you please, not

To make that an offence in your construction,

Which I receive as a large favour from you,

There needes not this Apologie.

Giovanni.

You continue

[Page] As you were ever, the greatest Mistresse of

Faire entertainment.

Fiorinda.

You are Sir the Master,

And in the Country have learnt to out-doe

All that in Court is practis'd. But why should we

Talke at such distance? You are welcome sir.

We have beene more familiar, and since

You wil impose the Province, you should governe,

Of boldnesse on me, give me leave to say

You are too punctuall. Sit sir, and discourse

As we were us'd.

Giovanni.

Your Excellence knowes so well

How to command, that I can never erre

When I obey you.

Fiorinda.

Nay, no more of this.

You shall o'recome; no more I pray you sir.

And what delights, Pray you be liberall

In your relation, hath the Country life

Afforded you?

Giovanni.

All pleasures gracious Madame,

But the happinesse to converse with your sweet vertues.

I had a grave Instructer, and my houres

Design'd to serious Studies yeelded me

Pleasure with profit in the knowledge of

What before I was ignorant in. The Signior

Carolode Charomonte being skilfull

To guide me through the labyrinth of wilde passions,

That labour'd to imprison my free soule

A slave to vitious Sloath.

Fiorinda.

You speake him well.

Giovanni.

But short of his deserts. Then for the time

Of recreation I was allow'd

(Against the forme follow'd by jealous Parents

In Italy) full liberty to pertake

His daughters sweet society. She's a virgin

Happy in all endowments, which a Poet

Could fancie in his Mistresse: being her selfe

A Schoole of goodnesse, where chast Mayds may learne

[Page] (Without the aydes of forraigne Principles)

By the example of her life and purenesse

To be as she is, excellent. I but give you

A briefe Epitome of her vertues, which

Dilated on at large, and to their merit,

Would make an ample Story.

Fiorinda.

Your whole age

So spent with such a Father, and a Daughter,

Could not be tedious to you.

Giovanni.

True great Princesse:

And now since you have pleas'd to grant the hearing

Of my times expence in the Country, give me leave

To entreate the favour, to be made acquainted

What service, or what objects in the Court

Have in your Excellence acceptance, prov'd

Most gracious to you?

Fiorinda.

I'll meete your demand,

And make a plaine discovery. The Dukes care

For my estate and person holds the first

And choycest place. Then the respect the Courtiers

Pay gladly to me, not to be contemn'd.

But that which rais'd in me the most delight

(For I am a friend to valour) was to heare

The noble actions truly reported

Of the brave Count Sanazarro. I professe

When it hath beene, and fervently deliver'd.

How boldly in the horror of a fight

Cover'd with fire and smoake, and as if nature

Had lent him wings, like lightning he hath falne

Upon the Turkish Gallies, I have heard it

With a kinde of pleasure, which hath whisper'd to me

This Worthy must be cherish'd.

Giovanni.

'T was a bounty

You never can repent.

Fiorinda.

I glory in it.

And when he did returne (but still with conquest)

His Armour off not young Antinous

Appear'd more Courtly; all the Graces that

[Page] Render a mans Society deere to Ladies,

Like Pages wayting on him, and it does

VVorke strangely on me.

Giovanni.

To divert your thoughts

Though they are fixt upon a noble subject,

I am a suitor to you.

Fiorinda.

You will aske

I doe presume, what I may grant, and then

It must not be deni'd.

Giovanni.

It is a favour

For which I hope your Excellence will thank me.

Fiorinda.

Nay, without circumstance.

Giovanni.

That you would please

To take occasion to move the Duke,

That you with his allowance may command

This matchlesse virgin Lidia (of whom

I cannot speake too much) to waite upon you.

She's such a one, upon the forfeit of

Your good opinion of me, that will not

Be a blemish to your trayne.

Fiorinda.

'Tis ranke! He loves her;

Aside.

But I will fit him with a suit. I pause not

As if it bred or doubt or scruple in me

To doe what you desire, for I'll effect it,

And make use of a faire and fit occasion.

Yet in returne I aske a boone of you,

And hope to finde you, in your grant to me

As I have beene to you.

Giovanni.

Command me Madame.

Fiorinda.

'Tis neere allyde to yours. That you would be

A Suitor to the Duke, not to expose

(After so many trialls of his faith)

The noble Sanazarro to all dangers,

As if he were a wall to stand the furie

Of a perpetuall batterie: but now

To grant him after his long labours, rest

And liberty to live in Court, his Armes

And his victorious sword and shield hung up

[Page] For monuments.

Giovan.

Umph. I'll embrace faire Princea

Enter Cozimo.

The soonest oportunity. The Duke!

Cozimo.

Nay, blush not; we smile on your privacie,

And come not to disturbe you. You are equalls,

And without prejudice to eithers Honors.

May make a mutuall change of love and Courtship,

Till you are made one, and with holy rites,

And we give suffrage to it.

Giovanni.

You are gracious.

Cozimo.

To our selfe in this. But now break off. Too much

Taken at once of the most curious viands

Dulls the sharp edge of appetite. We are now

For other sports, in which our pleasure is

That you shall keepe us company.

Fiorinda.

We attend you.

Exeunt.

Actus secundi Scaena secunda.

Bernardo.

Caponi.

Petruchio.

Bernardo.

IS my Lord stirring?

Caponi.

No; He's fast.

Petruchio.

Let us take then

Our morning draught. Such as eate store of Beefe,

Mutton, and Capons, may preserve their healths

With that thin composition call'd small Beere,

As 'tis said they doe in England. But Italians

That think when they have sup'd upon an Olive,

A Root, or bunch of Raysins, 'tis a Feast,

Must kill those cludities, rising from cold hearbs,

With hot and lusty wines.

Caponi.

A happinesse

Those Tramontaines ne're casted.

Bernardo.

Have they not

Store of wine there?

Caponi.

Yes, and drink more in two houres

Then the Dutchmen, or the Dane in foure and twenty.

Petru.

But what is't? French trash, made of rotten grapes

[Page] And dregs, and lees of Spaine, with Welch Metheglyn,

A drench to kill a horse, but this pure Nectar

Being proper to our climate, is too fine

To brook the roughnesse of the Sea. The spirit

Of this begets in us quick apprehensions

And active executions, whereas their

Grosse feeding makes their understanding like it.

They can fight, and that's their all.

They drink.

Sanazarro.

Security

Enter Sanazarro. A servant.

Dwells about this house I think, the gate's wide open,

And not a servant stirring. See the horses

Set up, and cloath'd.

Servant.

I shall Sir.

Sanazarro.

I'll make bold

To presse a little further.

Bernardo.

Who is this,

Count Sanazarro?

Petruchio.

Yes, I know him. Quickly

Remove the Flaggon.

Sanazarro.

A good day to you friends.

Nay, doe not conceale your Physick, I approve it,

And if you please will be a Patient with you.

Petruchio.

My noble Lord.

Drinks.

Sanazarro.

A health to yours. Well done,

I see you love your selves. And I commend you

'Tis the best wisedome.

Petruchio.

May it please your Honour

To walk a turne in the Gallery, I ll acquaint

My Lord with your being here.

Exit Petruchio.

Sanazarro.

Tell him I come

For a Visit onely. 'Tis a hansome pile this.

Exit Sanazarro.

Caponi.

Why here is a brave fellow, and a right one,

Nor wealth, nor greatnesse makes him proud.

Bernar.

There are too few of them, for most of our new Courtlers

(Whose Fathers were familiar with the prices

Of oyle, and corne, with when and to where to vent 'em)

And left their heires rich from their knowledge that way)

Like gourds shot up in a night, disclaine to speake

[Page] But to cloath of Tissue.

Ent. Car. Charom. in a night-Gown. Petruchio following.

Carol.

Stand you prating, knaves,

When such a guest is under my roofe? See all

The roomes perfum'd. This is the man that carries

The sway, and swinge of the Court; and I had rather

Preserve him mine with honest offices, then. —

But I'll make no comparisons. Bid my daughter

Trim her selfe up to the height, I know this Courtier

Must have a smack at her, and perhaps by his place

Expects to wriggle further. If he does

I shall deceive his hopes, for I'll not taint

My Honour for the Dukedome. Which way went he?

Caponi.

To the round Gallerie.

Carolo.

I will entertaine him.

As fits his worth, and quality, but no farther.

Exeunt:

Actus secundi Scaena tertia.

Sanazarro solus.

Sanazarro.

I Cannot apprehend, yet I have argu'd

All wayes I can imagine, for what reasons

The great Duke does imploy me hither, and

What does encrease the miracle, I must render

A strict and true account, at my returne

Of Lidia this Lords daughter, and describe

In what she's excellent, and where defective.

'Tis a hard task; he that will undergoe

To make a judgement of a womans beauty,

And see through all her plaistrings, and paintings,

Had neede of Linceus eyes, and with more ease

May looke like him through nine mud walls, then make

A true discovery of her. But th'intents

And secrets of my Princes heart must be

Serv'd and not search'd into.

Enter Carolo Charomonte.

Carolo.

Most noble Sir

Excuse my age subject to ease, and Sloath,

That with no greaver speed I have presented

My service with your welcome.

[Page]Sanazarro

'Tis more fit

That I should aske your pardon for disturbing

Your restat this unseasonable houre.

But my occasions carrying me so neere

Your hospitable house, my stay being short to;

Your goodnesse, and the name of friend, which you

Are pleas'd to grace me with, gave me assurance

A Visit would not offend.

Carolo.

Offend my Lord?

I feele my selfe much younger for the favour.

How is it with our gracious Master?

Sanazarro.

He Sir

Holds still his wonted Greatnesse, and confesses

Himselfe your debtor, for your love, and care

To the Prince Giovanni, and had sent

Particular thanks by me, had his Grace knowne,

The quick dispatch of what I was design'd to

Would have licenc'd me to see you.

Carolo.

I am rich

In his acknowledgement.

Sanazarro.

Sir, I have heard

Your happinesse in a daughter.

Carolo.

Sits the winde there?

Sanazarro.

Fame gives her out for a rare master-peece.

Carolo.

'Tis a plaine Village Girle Sir, but obedient,

That's her best beauty Sir.

Sanazarro.

Let my desire

To see her, finde a faire construction from you,

I bring no loose thought with me.

Carolo.

You are that way

My Lord free from suspition. Her owne manners

(Without an imposition from me)

Enter Lidia and Petronella.

I hope will prompt her to it. As she is

She's come to make a tender of that service

Which she stands bound to pay.

Sanazarro.

With your faire leave

I make bold to salute you.

Lidia.

Sir, I, you have it.

[Page]Petronella.

I am her Gentlewoman, wil he not kisse me to?

This is course ifaith.

Carolo.

How he falls off!

Lidia.

My Lord, though silence best becomes a Mayde,

And to be curious to know but what concernes my selfe, and with becomming distance,

May argue me of boldnesse, I must borrow

So much of modesty as to enquire Prince Giovannies health?

Sanazar.

Hee cannot want, what you are pleas'd to wish him.

Lidia.

Would 'twere so,

And then there is no blessing that can make

A hopefull and a noble Prince compleat,

But should fall on him. O, he was our North star,

The light and pleasure of our eyes.

Sanazarro.

Where am I?

I feele my selfe another thing! Can charmes

Be writ on such pure Rubies? Her lips melt

Assoone as touch'd! not those smooth gales that glide

O're happy Arabie, or rich Sabaea,

Creating in their passage gummes and spices,

Can serve for a weake simile to expresse

The sweetnesse of her breath. Such a brave stature

Homer bestow'd on Pallas, every limbe

Proportion'd to it.

Carolo.

This is strange; my Lord.

Sanaza.

I crave your pardon, and yours, matchlesse Mayd,

For such I must report you.

Petronella.

There's no notice

Taken all this while of me.

Sanazarro.

And I must adde

If your discourse and reason parallel

The rarenesse of your more then humane forme,

You are a wonder.

Carolo.

Pray you my Lord make triall:

She can speak I can assure you, and that my presence

May not take from her freedome, I will leave you.

For know my Lord, my confidence dares trust her

Where, and with whom she pleases. If he be

[Page] Taken the right way with her, I cannot fancie

A better match; and for false play I know

The tricks, and can discerne them. Petronella!

Petronella.

Yes my good Lord.

Exeunt Carolo and Petronella.

Carolo.

I have imployment for you.

Lidia.

What's your will Sir?

Sanazarro.

Madame, you are so large a theame to treat of,

And every Grace about you offers to me

Such copiousnesse of language, that I stand

Doubtfull which first to touch at. If I erre,

As in my choyce I may, let me entreat you

Before I doe offend, to signe my pardon,

Let this the Emblem of your innocence

Give me assurance.

Lidia.

My hand joyn'd to yours

Without this superstition confirmes it.

Nor neede I feare you will dwell long upon me,

The barrennesse of the subject yeelding nothing

That Rhetorick with all her tropes and figures

Can amplifie. Yet since you are resolv'd

To prove your selfe a Courtier in my praise,

As I am a woman (and you men affirme

Our sex loves to be flatter'd) I'll endure it.

Carolo above.

Now when you please begin.

Turnes from her.

Sanazarro.

Such Laedas paps were,

Down pillowes styl'd by Jove. And their pure whitenesse

Shames the Swans Down, or snow. No heat of lust

Swells up her Azure veines. And yet I feele

That this chast Ice but touch'd fans fire in me.

Lidia.

You neede not noble Sir be thus transported,

Or trouble your invention to expresse

Your thought of me: the plainest phrase and language

That you can use, will be too high a straine

For such an humble Theme.

Sanazarro.

If the great Duke

Made this his end to try my constant temper,

Though I am vanquish'd, 'tis his fault, not mine.

For I am flesh and blood, and have affections

[Page] Like other men. Who can behold the Temples,

Or holy Altars, but the Objects worke

Devotion in him? And I may as well

Walke over burning iron with bare feet

And be unscorch'd, as looke upon this beauty

Without desire, and that desire pursu'd to,

Till it be quench'd with the enjoying those

Delights, which to atchieve danger is nothing,

And loyalty but a word.

Lidia.

I ne're was proud,

Nor can finde I am guilty of a thought

Deserving this neglect, and strangenesse from you,

Nor am I amorous.

Sanazarro.

Suppose his Greatnesse

Loves her himselfe, why makes he choyce of me

To be his agent? it is tyrannie

To call one pinch'd with hunger to a feast,

And at that instant cruelly deny him

To taste of what he sees. Alleageance

Tempted too farre, is like the triall of

A good sword on an Anvill; as that often

Flies in peeces without service to the owner;

So trust enforc'd too farre prooves treachery,

And is too late repented.

Lidia.

Pray you Sir,

Or licence me to leave you, or deliver

The reasons which invite you to command

My tedious wayting on you.

Carolo.

As I live

I know not what to think on't. Is't his pride,

Or his simplicity?

Sanazarro.

Whither have my thoughts

Carried me from my selfe? in this my dulnesse,

I have lost an oportunity.

He turnes to her. She falls off.

Lidia.

'Tis true,

I was not bred in Court, not live a starre there,

Nor shine in rich embroderies, and pearle,

As they that are the Mistresses of great fortunes,

[Page] Are every day adorn'd with.

Sanazaro.

Will you vouchsafe

Your eare sweet Lady?

Lidia.

Yet I may be bold

For my integrity, and fame, to ranke

With such as are more glorious. Though I never

Did injurie, yet I am sensible

When I am contemn'd, and scorn'd.

Sanazarro.

Will you please to heare me?

Lidia.

O the difference of natures. Giovanni,

A Prince in expectation, when he liv'd here,

Stole courtesie from heaven, and would not to

The meanest servant in my Fathers house

Have kept such distance.

Sanazarro.

Pray you doe not think me

Unworthy of your eare, it was your beauty

That turn'd me statue, I can speake, faire Lady.

Lidia.

And I can heare. The harshnesse of your Courtship

Cannot corrupt my curtesie.

Sanazarro.

Will you heare me

If I speake of love?

Lidia.

Provided you be modest,

I were uncivill else.

Carolo descends.

Carolo.

They are come to parlee,

I must observe this neerer.

Sanazarro.

You are a rare one,

And such (but that my hast commands me hence)

I could converse with ever. Will you grace me

VVith leave to visit you againe.

Lidia.

So you

At your returne to Court, doe me the favour

To make a tender of my humble service

To the Prince Giovanni.

Sanazarro.

Ever touching

Upon that string? And will you give me hope

Of future happinesse?

Lidia.

That, as I shall finde you.

The Fort that's yeelded at the first assault,

[Page] Is hardly worth the taking.

Enter Carolo.

Carolo.

O, they are at it.

Sanazar.

She is a Magazine of all perfection,

And 'tis death to part from her, yet I must,

A parting kisse faire Maid.

Lidia.

That custome grants you.

Carolo.

A homely breakfast does attend your Lordship.

Such as the place affords.

Sanazarro.

No, I have feasted

Already here, my thanks, and so I leave you.

I will see you againe. Till this unhappy houre

I was never lost, and what to doe or say

I have not yet determin'd,

Exit Sanazarro.

Carolo.

Gone so abruptly?

'Tis very strange.

Lidia.

Under your favour Sir,

His comming hither was to little purpose

For any thing I heard from him.

Carolo.

Take heede Lidia!

I doe advise you with a Fathers love,

And tendernesse of your honour: as I would not

Have you course and harsh in giving entertainment,

So by no meanes be credulous. For great men

Till they have gain'd their ends are Giants in

Their promises, but those obtain'd, weake Pigmies

In their performance. And it is a maxime

Alow'd among them, so they may deceive

They may sweare any thing; for the Queen of love

As they hold constantly, does never punish,

But smile at Lovers perjuries. Yet be wise too,

And when you are su'd to in a noble way,

Be neither nice, nor scrupulous.

Lidia.

All you speake Sir

I heare as Oracles, nor will digresse

From your directions.

Carolo.

So shall you keepe

Your fame untainted.

Lidia.

As I would my life Sir.

Exeunt.

Finis Actus secundi.

3

[Page]

Actus tertij Scaena prima.

Sanazarro.

Servant.

Sanaz.

LEave the horses with my Groomes; but be you carefull

With your best diligence, and speed to finde out

The Prince, and humbly in my name entreat him

I may exchange some private conference with him

Before the great Duke know of my arrivall.

Servant.

I hast my Lord.

Sanazarro.

Here I'll attend his comming,

And see you keepe your selfe as much as may be

Conceal'd from all men else.

Servant.

To serve your Lordship

I wish I were invisible.

Exit servant.

Sanazarro.

I am driven

Into a desperate streight, and cannot steere

A middle course; and of the two extreames

Which I must make election of, I know not

Which is more full of horror. Never servant

Stood more ingag'd to a magnificent Master

Then I to Cozimo. And all those honors

And glories by his Grace conferr'd upon me,

Or by my prosperous services deserv'd,

If now I should deceive his trust, and make

A shipwrack of my loyalty, are ruin'd.

And on the other side, if I discover

Lidias divine perfections, all my hopes

In her are sunke, never to be boy'd up:

For 'tis impossible, but assoone as seene

She must with adoration be su'd to.

A Hermit at his beades, but looking on her,

Or the cold Cinique, whom Corinthian Lais,

Not mov'd with her lusts blandishments, call'd a stone,

At this object would take fire. Nor is the Duke

Such an Hippolitus, but that this Phaedra

But seene, must force him to forsake the Groves

And Dians Huntmanship, proud to serve under

[Page] Venus soft Ensignes. No, there is no way

For me to hope fruition of my ends,

But to conceale her beauties; and how that

May be effected, is as hard a taske

As with a vayle to cover the Sunnes beames,

Or comfortable light. Three yeares the Prince

Liv'd in her company, and Contarino

The Secretary, hath possess'd the Duke

What a rare peece she is. But he's my creature,

And may with ease be frighted to denie

What he hath said. And if my long experience

With some strong reasons I have thought upon,

Cannot o're-reach a youth, my practise yeelds me

But little profit.

Enter Giovanni and the servant.

Giovanni.

You are well return'd Sir.

Sanaz.

Leave us. When that your Grace shall know the motives

That forc'd me to invite you to this trouble,

You will excuse my manners.

Exit servant.

Giovanni.

Sir, there needs not

This circumstance betweene us. You are ever

My noble friend.

Sanazarro.

You shall have further cause

To assure you of my faith and zeale to serve you.

And when I have committed to your trust

(Presuming still on your retentive silence)

A secret of no lesse importance, then

My honor, nay my head, it will confirme

What value you hold with me.

Giovanni.

Pray you beleeve Sir

What you deliver to me, shall be lock'd up

In a strong Cabinet; of which you your selfe

Shall keepe the key. For here I pawne my Honor

(Which is the best security I can give yet)

It shall not be discover'd.

Sanazarro.

This assurance

Is more then I with modesty could demand

From such a paymaster, but I must be suddaine,

And therefore to the purpose. Can your Excellence

[Page] In your imagination conceive

On what designe, or whither the Dukes will

Commanded me hence last night?

Giovanni.

No I assure you,

And it had beene a rudenesse to enquire

Of that I was not call'd to.

Sanazarro.

Grant me hearing,

And I will make you truly understand,

It onely did concerne you.

Giovanni.

Me my Lord?

Sanazar.

You in your present state, and future fortunes,

For both lye at the stake?

Giovanni.

You much amaze me.

Pray you resolve this riddle.

Sanazarro.

You know the Duke,

If he die issue-lesse (as yet he is)

Determines you his Heire.

Giovanni.

It hath pleas'd his Highnesse

Oft to professe so much.

Sanazarro.

But say, he should

Be woone to prove a second wife, on whom

He may beget a sonne, how in a moment

Will all those glorious expectations, which

Render you reverenc'd and remarkable,

Be in a moment blasted, how e're you are

His much lov'd sisters sonne?

Giovanni.

I must beare it

With patience, and in me it is a duty

That I was borne with: and 'twere much unfit

For the receiver of a benefit

To offer for his owne ends, to prescribe

Lawes to the givers pleasure.

Sanazarro.

Sweetly answer'd,

And like your noble selfe. This your rare temper

So winnes upon me, that I would not live

(If that by honest Arts I can prevent it)

To see your hopes made frustrate. And but think

How you shall be transform'd from what you are,

[Page] Should this (as heaven avert it) ever happen,

It must disturbe your peace. For whereas now,

Being as you are receiv'd for the Heire apparant,

You are no sooner seene, but wondredat;

The Signiors making it a businesse to

Enquire how you have slep'd; and as you walke

The streetes of Florence, the glad multitude

In throngs presse but to see you, and with joy

The Father, pointing with his finger, tells

His sonne, This is the Prince, the hopefull Prince,

That must hereafter rule, and you obey him.

Great Ladies begge your picture, and make love

To that, despairing to enjoy the substance.

And but the last night, when't was onely rumor'd

That you were come to Court (as if you had

By Sea past hither from another world)

What generall showts, and acclamations follow'd,

The bells rung lowd, the boonfires blaz'd, and such

As lov'd not wine, carrow sing to your health,

Were drunk, and blush'd not at it. And is this

A happinesse to part with?

Giovanni.

I allow these

As flourishes of Fortune, with which Princes

Are often sooth'd, but never yet esteem'd 'em

For reall blessings.

Sanazarro.

Yet all these were pay'd

To what you may be, not to what you are,

For if the great Duke but shew to his servants

A sonne of his owne, you shall like one obscure

Passe unregarded.

Giovanni.

I confesse, command

Is not to be contemn'd, and if my Fate

Appoint me to it, as I may I'll beare it

With willing shoulders. But my Lord as yet

You have tolde me of a danger comming towards me,

But have not nam'd it.

Sanazarro.

That is soone deliver'd;

Great Cozimo your Uncle, as I more

[Page] Then guesse, for 'tis no frivolous circumstance

That does perswade my judgement to beleeve it,

Purposes to be married.

Giovanni.

Married, Sir?

With whom, and on what termes, pray you instruct me?

Sanazarro.

With the faire Lidia.

Giovanni.

Lidia?

Sanazarro.

The daughter

Of Signior Charomonte.

Giovanni.

Pardon me

Though I appeare incredulons, for on

My knowledge he ne're saw her.

Sanazarro.

That is granted;

But Contarino hath so sung her praises,

And giv'n her out for such a master-peece,

That he's transported with it Sir. And love

Steales sometimes through the care into the heart

As well as by the eye. The Duke no sooner

Heard her describ'd, but I was sent in post

To see her, and returne my judgement of her.

Giovanni.

And what's your censure?

Sanazar.

'Tis a pretie creature.

Giovanni.

She's very faire.

Sanazar.

Yes, yes, I have seene worse faces.

Giovanni.

Her limbs are neatly form'd.

Sanazar.

She hath a waste

Indeede siz'd to loves wish.

Giovanni.

A delicate hand too.

Sanazar.

Then for a legge and foote.

Giovanni.

And there I leave you,

For I presum'd no further.

Sanazar.

As she is Sir

I know she wants no gracious part that may

Allure the Duke, and if he onely see her

She is his owne. He will not be deni'd,

And then you are lost. Yet if you'll second me

(As you haue reason, for it most concernes you)

I can prevent all yet.

[Page]Giovanni.

I would you could

A noble way.

Sanazar.

I will cry downe her beauties;

Especially the beauties of her minde,

As much as Contarino hath advanc'd 'em,

And this I hope, will breed forgetfulnesse,

And kill affection in him: but you must

Joyne with me in my report, if you be question'd.

Giovan.

I never told a lye yet, and I hold it

In some degree blasphemous to dispraise

What's worthy admiration. Yet for once

I will dispraise a little, and not varie

From your relation.

Sanazar.

Be constant in it.

Enter Alphonso.

Alph.

My Lord, the Duke hath seen your man, & wonders

You come not to him. See if his desire

To have cōference with you hath not brought

Ent. Cozimo, Contarino and Attendants.

Him hither in his owne person.

Cozimo.

They are comely coursers,

And promise swiftnesse.

Contarino.

They are of my knowledge

Of the best race in Naples.

Cozimo.

You are Nephew,

As I heare, an excellent horseman, and we like it.

'Tis a faire grace in a Prince. Pray you make triall

Of their strength and speed, and if you think them fit

For your imployment, with a liberall hand

Reward the Gentleman, that did present 'em

From the Viceroy of Naples.

Exeunt Giovanni, Alphonso, Hippolito.

Giovanni.

I will use

My best endeyour Sir.

Cozimo.

Wayte on my Nephew.

Nay stay you Contarino, be within call,

It may be we shal use you. You have rode hard Sir,

And we thank you for it. Every minute seemes

Irksome, and tedious to us; till you have

Made your discovery. Say friend, have you seene

This Phaenix of our age?

Sanazar.

I have seene a Mayde Sir,

[Page] But if that I have judgement, no such wonder

As she was deliver'd to you.

Cozimo.

This is strange.

Sanazar.

But certaine truth, it may be she was look'd on

With admiration in the Country Sir,

But if compar'd with many in your Court,

She would appeare but ordinary.

Cozimo.

Contarino

Reports her otherwise.

Sanazar.

Such as ne're saw Swannes,

May think Crowes beautifull.

Cozimo.

How is her behaviour?

Sanazar.

'Tis like the place she lives in.

Cozimo.

How her wit,

Discourse, and entertainment?

Sanazar.

Very course,

I would not willingly say poore, and rude,

But had she all the beauties of faire women,

The dulnesse of her soule would fright me from her.

Coz.

You are curious Sir, I know not what to think on't.

Contarino!

Contarino.

Sir.

Cozimo.

Where was thy judgement man

To extoll a virgin, Sanazarro tells me

Is neerer to deformity.

Sanazarro.

I saw her,

And curiously perus'd her, and I wonder

That she that did appeare to me, that know

What beauty is, not worthy the observing,

Should so transport you.

Contarino.

Troth my Lord I thought then.

Cozimo.

Thought? Didst thou not affirme it?

Contarino.

I confesse Sir

I did beleeve so then, but now I heare

My Lords opinion to the contrary,

I am of another faith: for 'tis not fit

That I should contradict him. I am dimme Sir,

But he's sharpe sighted.

[Page]Sanazar.

This is to my wish.

Cozi.

We know not what to think of this, yet would not

Determine rashly of it. How doe you like

Enter Giovanni, Hippo. Lodovico.

My Nephewes horsemanship?

Hippolito.

In my judgement Sir

It is exact and rare.

Alphonso.

And to my fancie

He did present great Alexander mounted

On his Bucephalus.

Cozimo.

You are right Courtiers,

And know it is your duty to cry up

All actions of a Prince.

Sanazarro.

Doe not betray

Aside to Giovanni.

Your selfe, you are safe, I have done my part.

Giovanni.

I thanke you,

Nor will I faile.

Cozimo.

What's your opinion Nephew

Of the horses?

Giovanni.

Two of them are in my judgement

The best I ever back'd. I meane the roane Sir,

And the browne bay: but for the chesnut colour'd,

Though he be full of mettall, hot, and fierie,

He treads weake in his pasternes.

Cozimo.

So, come neerer;

This exercise hath put you into a sweat,

Take this and dry it: and now I command you

To tell me truly what's your censure of

Charomontes daughter Lidia.

Giovanni.

I am Sir

A novice in my judgement of a Lady,

But such as it is, your Grace shall heare it freely.

I would not speake in of her, and am sorie

If I keepe my selfe a friend to truth, I cannot

Report her as I would, so much I owe

Her reverend Father. But I'll give you Sir

As neere as I can her character in little.

She's of a goodly stature, and her limbs

Not disproportion'd; for her face it is

[Page] Farre from deformity, yet they flatter her

That style it excellent: her manners are

Simple and innocent: but her discourse

And wit deserve my pittie, more then praise.

At her best my Lord, she is a hansome picture,

And that said, all is spoken.

Cozimo.

I beleeve you

I ne're yet found you false.

Giovanni.

Nor ever shall Sir.

Forgive me matchlesse Lidia I too much love

Aside.

And jealous feare to lose thee, doe bompell me

Against my will, my reason, and my knowledge

To be a poore ditracter of that beauty,

Which fluent Ovid, if he liv'd againe,

Would want words to expresse.

Cozimo.

Pray you make choyce of

The richest of our furniture for those horses,

To Sanazarro.

And take my Nephew with you, we in this

Will follow his directions.

Giovanni.

Could I finde now

The Princesse Fiorinda, and perswade her

To be silent in the suit, that I mov'd to her

All were secure.

Sanazarro.

In that my Lord t'll ayde you.

Coz.

We wil be private, leave us. All my studies

Exeunt omnes.

And serious meditations ayme no further

Then this young mans good. He was my sisters son,

And she was such a sister when she liv'd

I could not prize too much, nor can I better

Make knowne how deere I hold her memory,

Then in my cherishing the onely issue

Which she hath left behind her Who's that?

Ent. Fiorinda.

Fiorinda.

Sir.

Cozimo.

My faire charge, you are welcome to us.

Fiorinda.

I have found it Sir.

Cozimo.

All things goe well in Urbin.

Fiorinda.

Your gracious care to me an Orphan, frees me

From all suspition, that my jealous feares can drive into my fancie.

[Page]Cozimo.

The next Summer

In our owne person, we will bring you thither,

And seat you in your owne.

Fiorinda.

When you think fit Sir.

But in the mean time, with your Highnesse pardon,

I am a suitor to you.

Cozimo.

Name it Madame,

With confidence to obtaine it.

Fiorinda.

That you would please

To lay a strict command on Charomonte,

To bring his daughter Lidia to the Court,

And pray you think Sir that 'tis not my purpose

To imploy her as a servant, but to use her

As a most wish'd companion.

Cozimo.

Ha. Your reason?

Fiorin.

The hopefull Prince your Nephew Sir hath given her

To me for such an abstract of perfection,

In all that can be wish'd for in a virgin,

As beauty, musique, ravishing discourse,

Quicknesse of apprehension, with choyce manners

And learning to, not usuall with women;

That I am much ambitious (though I shall

Appeare but as a foyle to set her off)

To be from her instructed, and suppli'd

In what I am defective.

Cozimo.

Did my Nephew

Seriously deliver this?

Fiorinda.

I assure your Grace

With zeale, and vehemencie, and even when

With his best words he striv'd to set her forth

(Though the rare subject made him eloquent)

He would complaine, all he could say came short

Of her deservings.

Cozimo.

Pray you have patience.

This was strangely caried. Ha! are we tristed with?

Dare they doe this? is Cozimos furie, that

Of late was terrible, growne contemptible?

Well; we will cleare our browes, and undermine

[Page] Their secret works, (though they have dig'd like Moles,)

And crush'em with the tempest of my wrath

When I appeare most calme. He is unfit

To command others, that knowes not to use it,

And with all rigour, yet my sterne lookes shall not

Discover my intents, for I will strike

When I begin to frowne. You are the Mistresse

Of that you did demand.

Fiorinda.

I thank your Highnesse,

But speed in the performance of the grant

Doubles the favours Sir.

Cozimo.

You shall possesse it sooner then you expect,

Onely be pleas'd to be ready when my Secretary

Waites upon you, to take the fresh ayre. My Nephew!

And my bosome friend so to cheat me, 'tis not faire!

Enter Giovanni, Sanazarro.

San.

Where should this Princesse be? nor in her lodgings,

Nor in the private walks, Her owne retreat

Which she so much frequented?

Giovanni.

By my life

She's with the Duke. And I much more then feare

Her forwardnesse to prefer my suit, hath ruin'd

What with such care we built up.

Cozimo.

Have you furnish'd

Those Coursers, as we will'd you?

Sanazarro.

There's no signe

Of anger in his lookes.

Giovanni.

They are compleat Sir.

Cozimo.

'Tis well. To your rest. Soft sleepes wayt on you Madame.

Tomorrow with the rising of the Sunne

Be ready to ride with us. They with more safety

Had trod on fork-tongu'd Adders, thē provok'd me.

Ex. Coz.

Fiorinda.

I come not to be thank'd Sir for the speedy

Performance of my promise touching Lidia,

It is effected.

Sanazarro.

We are undone.

Fiorinda.

The Duke

No sooner heard me with my best of language

[Page] Describe her excellencies, as you taught me,

But he confirm'd it. You looke sad, as if

You wish'd it were undone.

Giovanni.

No gracious Madame,

I am your servant for't.

Fiorinda.

Be you as carefull

For what I mov'd to you. Count Sanazarro,

Now I perceive you honour me, in vouchsafing

To weare so sleight a favour.

Sanazarro.

'Tis a grace

I am unworthy of.

Fiorinda.

You merit more

In prizing so a trifle. Take this Diamond,

I'll second what I have begun. For know

Your valour hath so woone upon me, that

'Tis not to be resisted. I have said Sir,

And leave you to interpret it.

Exit Fiorinda.

Sanazarro.

This to me

Is Wormewood. 'Tis apparant we are taken

In our owne nooze. What's to be done?

Giovanni.

I know not.

And 'tis a punishment justly salne upon me

For leaving truth, a constant Mistresse, that

Ever protects her servants, to become

A slave to lyes, and falshood. What excuse

Can we make to the Duke? what mercy hope for,

Our packing being laid open?

Sanazarro.

'Tis not to

Be question'd, but his purpos'd journey is

To see faire Lidia.

Giovanni.

And to divert him

Impossible.

Sanazarro.

There's now no looking backward.

Giovanni.

And which way to goe on with safety not

To be imagin'd.

Sanazarro.

Give me leave. I have

An Embrion in my braine, which, I despaire not,

May be brought to forme and fashion, provided

[Page] You will be open breasted.

Giovanni.

'Tis no time now

Our dangers being equall, to conceale

A thought from you.

Sanazar.

What power hold you o're Lidia?

Doe you think that with some hazard of her life

She would prevent your ruine?

Giovanni.

I presume so.

If in the undertaking it, she stray not

From what becomes her innocence, and to that

'Tis farre from me to presse her, I my selfe

Will rather suffer.

Sanazarro.

'Tis enough, this night

Write to her by your servant Calandrino

As I shall give directions, my man

Enter Caland.

Shall beare him company. See Sir to my wish

He does appeare, but much transform'd from what

He was when he came hither.

Calandrino.

I confesse

I am not very wise, and yet I finde

A foole, so he be parcell knave in Court,

May flourish and grow rich.

Giovanni.

Calandrino.

Calandrino.

Peace.

I am in contemplation.

Giovanni.

Doe not you know me?

Caland.

I tell thee? no, on forfeit of my place,

I must not know my selfe, much lesse my Father,

But by Petition. That Petition lin'd too

With golden birds, that sing to the tune of Profit,

Or I am deafe.

Giovan.

But you have your sense of feeling.

Offering to kick him.

Sanazar.

Nay pray you forbeare.

Calandri.

I have all that's requisite

To the making up of a Signior. My spruce ruffe,

My hooded cloake, long stockin, and pain'd hose,

My Case of tooth-picks, and my silver forke,

To convey an Olive neatly to my mouth,

[Page] And what is all in all, my pockets ring

A golden peale. O that the Pesants in the Country

(My quondam fellowes) but saw me as I am,

How they would admire and worship me!

Giovan.

As they shall,

For instantly you must thither.

Calandri.

My grand Signior

Vouchsafe a bezolus manus, and a cringe

Of the last edition.

Giovan.

You must ride post with Letters

This night to Lidia.

Calandr.

And it please your Grace

Shall I use my Coach, or foot-cloath Mule?

Sanazar.

You Whidgin,

You are to make all speed, think not of pompe.

Giovan.

Follow for your instructions Sirra.

Calandr.

I have one suit to you

My good Lord.

Sanazar.

What is't?

Calandr.

That you would give me

A subtill Court charme, to defend me from

Th infectious ayre of the Country.

Giovan.

What's the reason?

Caland.

Why, as this Court ayre taught me knavish wit,

By which I am growne rich, if that againe

Should turne me foole and honest; Vaine hopes farewell,

For I must die a beggar.

Sanazar.

Goe too Sirrha,

You'll be whip'd for this.

Giovan.

Leave fooling, and attend us.

Exeunt.

The end of the third Act.

4

Actus quarti Scaena prima.

Carolo Charomante

Lidia.

Carolo.

DAughter I have observ'd since the Prince left us

(Whose absence I mourn with you, & the visit

Count Sanazarro gave us, you have nourish'd

[Page] Sad and retired thoughts, and parted with

That freedome, and alacrity of spirit

With which you us'd to cheere me.

Lidia.

For the Count, Sir,

All thought of him does with his person die;

But I confesse ingenuously I cannot

So soone forget the choyce, and chast delights

The curteous conversation of the Prince,

And without staine I hope, afforded me

When he made this house a Court.

Carolo.

It is in us

To keepe it so without him. Want we know not,

And all we can complaine of (heaven be prais'd for)

Is too much plenty, & we will make use of

Ent. servants.

All lawfull pleasures. How now fellowes, when

Shall we have this lusty dance?

Caponi.

In the after-noone Sir,

'Tis a device Iwis of my owne making,

And such a one, as shal make your Signiorship know

I have not beene your Butlar for nothing, but

I have crotchets in my head. We'll trip it titely,

And make my sad young Mistresse merry againe,

Or I'll forsware the Cellar.

Bernardo.

If we had

Our fellow Calandrino here to dance

His part, we were perfect.

Petruchia.

O, he was a rare fellow;

But I feare the Court hath spoil'd him.

Caponi.

When I was young

I could have cut a caper on a pinnacle,

But now I am old & wise, keepe your figure faire,

And follow but the sample I shall set you,

The Duke himselfe will send for us, and laugh at us,

And that were credit.

Enter Calandrino.

Lidia.

Who have we here?

Calandrino.

I finde

VVhat was brawne in the Country, in the Court growes tender.

The bots on these joulting Jades, I am bruis'd to jelly.

[Page] A Coach for my mony! and that the Curtezans know well,

Their riding so, makes them last three yeares longer

Then such as are hacknei'd.

Carolo.

Calandrino, 'tis he.

Calan.

Now to my postures. Let my hand have the honor

To convey a kisse from my lips to the cover of

Your foote deere Signior.

Carolo.

Fie, you stoope too low Sir.

Calan.

The hemme of your vestment Lady. Your Glove is for Princes,

Nay, I have con'd my distances.

Lidia.

'Tis most Courtly.

Caponi.

Fellow Calandrino!

Caland.

Signior de Caponi,

Grand Botelier of the Mansion.

Bernardo.

How is't man?

Claps him on the shoulder.

Calan.

Be not so rustique in your salutations,

Signior Bernardo, Master of the accounts.

Signior Petruchio, may you long continue

Your function in the chamber.

Caponi.

When shall we learne such gambolls in our villa?

Lidia.

Sure he's mad.

Carol.

'Tis not unlike, for most of such mushroomes are so.

What newes at Court?

Caland.

Basto! they are mysteries,

And not to be reveal'd. With your favour Signior,

I am in private to conferre a while

With this Signiora. But I'll pawne my honour,

That neither my terse language, nor my habit

How e're it may convince, nor my new shrugs,

Shall render her enamour'd.

Carolo.

Take your pleasure

A little of these apish tricks may passe,

Too much is tedious.

Exit Carolo.

Calandr.

The Prince in this paper

Presents his service. Nay, it is not Courtly

To see the seale broke open. So I leave you.

Signiors of the Villa, I'll descend to be

Familiar with you.

[Page]Caponi.

Have you forgot to dance?

Caland.

No, I am better'd.

Petruch.

Will you joyne with us?

Caland.

As I like the project.

Let me warme my braines first with the richest Grape,

And then I am for you.

Caponi.

We will want no wine.

Exeunt. Manet Lidia.

Lidia.

That this comes onely from the best of Princes,

With a kinde of adoration does command me

To entertaine it, and the sweet contents

Kissing the letter.

That are inscrib'd here by his hand, must be

Much more then musicall to me. All the service

Of my life at no part can deserve this favour.

O what a virgin longing I feele on me.

To unrip the seale, and reade it, yet to breake

What he hath fastned, rashly, may appeare

A sawcie rudenesse in me. I must doe it,

(Nor can I else learne his commands, or serve'em)

But with such reverence, as I would open

Some holy Writ, whose grave instructions beat downe

Rebellious sinnes, and teach my better part

How to mount upward. So, 'tis done, & I

Opens the Letter.

With Eagles eyes wil curiously peruse it.

Reads the Letter.

Chast Lidia: the favours are so great

On me by you conferr'd, that to intreat

The least addition to 'em, in true sense

May argue me of blushlesse impudence.

But such are my extreames, if you denie

A farther grace, I must unpittied die.

Hast cuts off circumstance; as you are admir'd

for beauty, the report of it hath fir'd

The Duke my Vncle, and I feare you'll prove,

Not with a sacred, but unlawfull love.

If he see you, as you are, my hop'd-for light

Is chang'd into an everlasting night.

How to prevent it, if your goodnesse finde

You save two lives, and me you ever binde,

The honourer of your vertues, Giovanni.

[Page] Were I more deafe then Adders, these sweet charmes

Would through my eares finde passage to my soule,

And soone inchant it: To save such a Prince

VVho would not perish? Vertue in him must suffer,

And piety be forgotten. The Dukes lust

Though it rag'd more then Tarquins, shall not reach me.

All quaint inventions of chast virgins ayde me!

My prayers are heard, I have't. The Duke ne're saw me,

Or if that faile, I am againe provided.

This spoke as if shee studied an evasion.

But for the servants! They wil take what forme

I please to put upon them. Giovanni.

Be safe, thy servant Lidia assures it.

Let mountaines of afflictions fall on me,

Their waight is easie, so I set thee free.

Exit.

Actus quarti Scaena secunda.

Cozimo,

Giovauni,

Sanazarro,

Carolo, Servants.

Sanazar.

ARe you not tyr'd with travaile Sir?

Cozimo.

No, no,

I am fresh and lustie.

Carolo.

This day shall be ever

A holy day to me, that brings my Prince

Under my humble roofe.

Weepes.

Giovan.

See Sir, my good Tutor

Sheds teares for joy.

Cozimo.

Dry them up Charomonte,

And all forbeare the roome, while we exchange

Some private words together.

Giovan.

O my Lord,

How grosly have we overshot our selves!

Sanazarro.

In what Sir?

Giovan.

In forgetting to acquaint

My Guardian with our purpose; all that Lidia

Can doe, availes us nothing; if the Duke

Finde out the truth from him.

Sanazarro.

'Tis now pass'd helpe,

Excunt Giovan. Sanazar.

And we must stand the hazard, hope the best Sir?

[Page]Carolo.

My loyalty doubted Sir.

Cozimo.

'Tis more. Thou hast

Abus'd our trust, and in a high degree

Committed treason.

Carolo.

Treason? 'tis a word

My innocence understands not. VVere my breast

Transparent, and my thoughts to be discern'd,

Not one spot shall be found to taynt the candor

Of my alleageance. And I must be bold

To tell you Sir (for he that knowes no guilt

Can know no feare) 'tis tyrannie to o're charge

An honest man, and such till now I have liv'd,

And such my Lord I'll die.

Cozimo.

Sir, doe not flatter

Your selfe with hope, these great & glorious words

Which every guilty wretch, as well as you

That's arm'd with impudence, can with ease deliver,

And with as full a mouth, can work on us?

Nor shall gay flourishes of language cleare

What is in fact apparent.

Carolo.

Fact? What fact?

You that know onely, what it is, instruct me,

For I am ignorant.

Cozimo.

This then Sir: we gave up

(On our assurance of your faith and care,)

Our Nephew Giovanni, nay, our heire

In expectation, to be train'd up by you

As did become a Prince.

Carolo.

And I discharg'd it.

Is this the treason?

Cozimo.

Take us with you Sir.

And in respect we knew his Youth was prone

To women, and that living in our Court

He might make some unworthy choyce, before

His weaker judgement was confirm'd, we did

Remove him from it; constantly presuming

You with your best endevours, rather would

Have quench'd those heates in him, then light a Torch,

[Page] As you have done to his loosenesse.

Carolo.

I? my travaile

Is ill requited Sir, for by my soule

I was so curious that way, that I granted

Accesse to none could tempt him, nor did ever

One syllable, or obscaene accent touch

His care that might corrupt him.

Cozimo.

No? Why then

With your allowance did you give free way

To all familiar privacie, betweene

My Nephew and your daughter? Or why did you

(Had you no other ends in't but our service)

Reade to 'em, and together (as they had beene

Schollers of one forme) Grammar, Rhetorique,

Philosophie, Storie, and interpret to 'em

The close temptations of lascivious Poets?

Or wherefore (for we still had spies upon you)

Was she still present, when by your advice

He was taught the use of his weapon, horsmanship,

Wrastling, nay swimming, but to fan in her

A hot desire of him? and then forsooth

His exercises ended, cover'd with

A faire pretence of recreation for him,

When Lidia was instructed in those graces

That add to beauty. He brought to admire her,

Must heare her sing, while to her voyce, her hand

Made ravishing Musick; and this applauded, dance

A light Levalto with her.

Carolo.

Have you ended

All you can charge me with?

Cozimo.

Nor stop'd you there,

But they must unattended walke into

The silent Groves, and heare the amorous birds

Warbling their wanton notes, here a sure shade

Of barren Sicamours: (which the all-seeing Sunne

Could not pierce through) neere that an arbor hung

With spreading Eglantine, there a bubling spring

Watring a banke of Hyacinths, and Lillies,

With all allurements, that could move to lust.

[Page] And could this, Charomonte, (should I grant

They had beene equalls both in birth and fortune)

Become your gravity? Nay, 'tis cleare as ayre

That your ambitious hopes to match your daughter

Into our family, gave connivence to it;

And this, though not in act, in the intent

I call high treason.

Carolo.

Heare my just defence Sir,

And though you are my Prince, it wil not take from

Your Greatnesse to acknowledge with a blush,

In this my accusation you have beene

More sway'd by spleene, and jealous suppositions,

Then certaine grounds of reason. You had a Father

(Blest be his memory) that made frequent proofes

Of my loyalty, and faith, and (would I boast

The dangers I have broke through in his service)

I could say more. Nay, you your selfe, dread Sir,

VVhen ever I was put unto the test,

Found me true gold, and not adulterate metall,

And am I doubted now?

Cozimo.

This is from the purpose.

Carol.

I wil come to it Sir, your Grace wel knew

Before the Princes happy presence made

My poore house rich, the chiefest blessings which

I gloried in, (though now it prove a curse)

Was an onely daughter. Nor did you command me,

As a security to your future feares,

To cast her off: which had you done, how e're

She was the light of my eyes, and comfort of

My feeble age; so farre I priz'd my duty

Above affection, she now had beene

A stranger to my care. But she is faire.

Is that her fault, or mine? Did ever Father

Hold beauty in his issue for a blemish?

Her education and her manners tempt to.

If these offend, they are easily remov'd,

You may, if you think fit, before my face,

In recompence of all my watchings for you,

[Page] VVith burning corrafives transforme her to

An ugly Leper; and this done to taint

Her sweetnes, prostitute her to a loathsom brothel.

This I will rather suffer Sir, and more,

Then live suspected by you.

Cozimo.

Let not passion

Carie you beyond your reason.

Carolo.

I am calme Sir,

Yet you must give me leave to grieve, I finde

My actions misinterpreted. Alas Sir,

VVas Lidias desire to serve the Prince

Call'd an offence? or did she practise to

Seduce his youth, because with her best zeale

And fervour she endevoured to attend him?

'Tis a hard construction: though she be my daughter

I may thus farre speake her. From her infancy

She was ever civill, her behaviour neerer

Simplicity then craft; and malice dares not

Affirme in one loose gesture, or light language,

She gave a signe she was in thought unchast:

I'll fetch her to you Sir, and but looke on her

VVith equall eyes, you must in justice grant

That your suspition wrongs her.

Cozimo.

It may be,

But I must have stronger assurance of it

Then passionate words. And not to trifle time,

As we came unexpected to your house,

We will prevent all meanes that may prepare her

How to answer that, with which we come to charge her.

And how soever it may be receiv'd

As a foule breach to hospitable rites,

On thy alleageance, and boasted faith,

Nay forfeit of thy head, we doe consine thee

Close prisoner to thy Chamber, till all doubts

Are clear'd that doe concerne us.

Carolo.

I obey Sir,

And wish your Grace had followed my hearse

To my Sepulchre, my loyalty unsuspected,

[Page] Rather then now? but I am silent Sir,

And let that speake my duty.

Exit Carolo.

Cozimo.

If this man

Be false, disguised treacherie ne're put on

A shape so neere to truth. VVithin there.

Enter Giovan and Sanazar. ushering in Petronella. Caland. & others setting sorth a banquet.

Sanazarro.

Sir.

Cozimo.

Bring Lidia forth.

Giovan.

She comes Sir of her selfe

To present her service to you.

Cozimo.

Ha. This personage

Cannot invite affection.

Sanazarro.

See you keepe State.

Petronella.

I warrant you.

Cozimo.

The manners of her minde

Must be transcendent, if they can defend

Her rougher out-side; may we with your liking

Salute you Lady?

Petronella.

Let me wipe my mouth Sir

VVith my Cambrick handkercher, and then have at you.

Cozimo.

Can this be possible?

Sanazar.

Yes sir, you will finde her

Such as I gave her to you.

Petronella.

VVill your Dukeship

Sit down and eat some Sugar-plum? here's a Castle

Of March-Pane too, and this Quince Marmalade

Was of my owne making. All summ'd up together

Did cost the setting on, and here is wine too

Drinks all off.

As good as e're was tap'd. I'll be your taster,

For I know the fashion, now you must doe me right Sir,

You shall nor will, nor choose.

Giovanni.

She's very simple.

Cozi.

Simple, 'tis worse. Doe you drink this often Lady?

Petro.

Still when I am thirsty, and eate when I am hungry.

Such Junkets come not every day. Once more to you,

VVith a heart and a halfe ifaith.

Cozimo.

Pray you pawse a little,

If I hold your Cards, I shall pull downe the side,

I am not good at the game.

[Page]Petronella.

Then I'll drink for you.

Cozimo.

Nay, pray you stay. I'll finde you out a pledge

That shall supply my place, what think you of

This compleat Signior? You are a Juno, and in such state

Must feast this Iupiter, what think you of him?

Petronella.

I desire no better.

Cozimo.

And you will undertake this service for me?

You are good at the sport.

Calandr.

Who I? A pidler Sir.

Cozimo.

Nay, you shall sit inthroan'd, and eate, & drink

As you were a Duke.

Caland.

If your Grace will have me,

I'll eate and drink like an Emperour.

Cozimo.

Take your place then,

We are amaz'd.

Giovanni,

This is grosse. Nor can the imposture

But be discover'd.

Sanazar.

The Duke is too sharpe sighted

To be deluded thus.

Caland.

Nay, pray you eate faire,

Or devide, and I will choose. Cannot you use

Your fork as I doe? Gape and I will feed you.

Feedes her.

Gape wider yet, this is Court-like.

Petro.

To choke Dawes with,

I like it not.

Caland.

But you like this.

They drink.

Petronel.

Let it come Boy.

Cozi.

What a sight is this? we could be angry with you,

How much you did belye her when you told us

She was onely simple, this is barbarous rudenesse,

Beyond beliefe.

Giovanni.

I would not speake her Sir

Worse then she was.

Sanazarro.

And I my Lord chose rather

To deliver her better parted then she is,

Then to take from her.

Enter Caponi.

Caponi.

E're I'll loose my dance,

I'll speake to the purpose. I am Sir no Prologue,

[Page] But in plaine termes must tell you, we are provided

Of a lusty Hornepipe.

Cozimo.

Prethee let us have it,

For we grow dull.

Caponi.

But to make up the medley,

For it is of severall colours, for we must borrow

Your Graces Ghost here.

Caland.

Pray you Sir depose me,

It will not doe else. I am sir the engine

Rises and resignes his chaire.

By which it moves.

Petronel.

I will dance with my Duke too,

I will not out.

Cozim.

Begin then. There's more in this

Dance

Then yet I have discover'd. Some Oedipus

Resolve this riddle.

Petronel.

Did I not foot it roundly?

Falls downe.

Coz.

As I live stark drunk. Away with her. We'll reward you.

When you have cool'd your selves in the Cellar.

Caponi.

Heaven preserve you.

Exeunt dancers.

Cozimo.

We pitty Charomonte's wretched fortune.

In a daughter, nay, a monster. Good old man!

The place growes tedious. Our remove shall be

With speed. We'll onely in a word or two

Take leave and comfort him.

Sanazar.

'Twill rather Sir

Encrease his sorrow, that you know his shame,

Your Grace may doe it by Letter.

Cozimo.

Who sign'd you

A Pattent to direct us? Waite our comming

In the Garden.

Giovan.

All will out.

Sanaz.

I more then feare it.

Exeunt Giovan. & Sanazar.

Coz

These are strange Chimeras to us! what to judge of't

Is past our apprehension! One command

Charomonte to attend us. Can it be

Exit servant.

That Contarino could be so besotted

As to admire this prodigie! or her Father

To dote upon it! or does she personate

[Page] For some ends unknowne to us, this rude behaviour

Within the Scaene presented, would appeare

Ridiculous and impossible. O you are welcome.

Ent. Carol.

We now acknowledge the much wrong we did you

In our unjust suspition. We have seene

The wonder Sir, your daughter.

Carolo.

And have found her

Such as I did report her. What she wanted

In Courtship, was I hope suppli'd in civill

And modest entertainment.

Cozimo.

Pray you tell us,

And truly we command you, Did you never

Observe she was given to drink?

Carolo.

To drink Sir?

Cozimo.

Yes. Nay more, to be drunk.

Carolo.

I had rather see her buried.

Cozi.

Dare you trust your own eyes, if you finde her now

More then distemper'd?

Carolo.

I will pull them out Sir,

If your Grace can make this good. And if you please

To grant me liberty, as she is I'll fetch her,

And in a moment.

Cozimo.

Looke you doe, and faile not,

On the perill of your head.

Carol.

Drunk. She disdaines it.

Exit Carolo.

Cozimo.

Such contrarieties were never reade of.

Charomonte is no foole, nor can I think

His confidence built on sand. We are abus'd,

'Tis too apparent.

Enter Carolo and Lidia.

Lidia.

I am indispos'd Sir,

And that life you tender'd once, much indanger'd

In forcing me from my Chamber.

Carolo.

Here she is Sir,

Suddainly sick I grant, but sure not drunk,

Speake to my Lord the Duke.

Lidia.

All is discover'd.

Kneeles.

Cozimo.

Is this your onely daughter.

Carolo.

And my heire Sir,

[Page] Nor keepe I any woman in my house

(Unlesse for sordid offices) but one,

I doe maintaine trimm'd up in her cast habits,

To make her sport. And she indeede loves wine,

And wil take too much of it. And perhaps for mirth

She was presented to you.

Cozimo.

It shall yeeld

No sport to the contrivers, 'tis too plaine now

Her presence does confirme what Contorino

Deliver'd of her, nor can sicknesse dimme

The splendor of her beauties, being her selfe then

She must exceede his praise.

Lidia.

Will your Grace heare me?

I am faint and can say little.

Cozimo.

Here are accents,

Whose every syllable is musicall!

Pray you let me raise you, and a while rest here!

False Sanazarro, trecherous Giovanni;

But stand we talking?

Carolo.

Here's a storme soone rais'd.

Coz.

As thou art our Subject, Charomonte, sweare

To act what we command.

Carolo.

That is an oath

I long since tooke.

Cozimo.

Then by that oath we charge thee

Without excuse, deniall, or delay

To apprehend, and suddainly, Sanazarro,

And our Ingratefull Nephew. We have said it.

Doe it without reply, or we pronounce thee,

Like them, a traytor to us. See them guarded

In severall lodgings, and forbid accesse

To all, but when we warrant, Is our will

Heard, sooner then obay'd?

Carolo.

These are strange turnes,

But I must not dispute 'em.

Exit Carolo.

Cozimo.

Be severe in't.

O my abused lenity I from what height

Is my power falne?

[Page]Lidia.

O me most miserable!

That being innocent, make others guilty.

Most gracious Prince!

Cozimo.

Pray you rise, and then speake to me.

Lidia.

My knees shal first be rooted in this earth,

And Mirrha like I'll grow up to a tree,

Dropping perpetuall teares of sorrow, which

Hardned by the rough winde, and turn'd to amber,

Unfortunate virgins like my selfe shall weare,

Before I'll make Petition to your Greatnesse

But with such reverence, my hands held up thus,

As I would doe to heaven. You Princes are

As gods on earth to us, and to be su'd too

With such humility, as his Deputies

May chalenge from their vassalls.

Cozimo.

Here's that forme

Of language I expected; pray you speake,

What is your suit?

Lidia.

That you would looke upon me

As an humble thing, that millions of degrees

Is plac'd beneath you. For what am I dread sir?

Or what can fall in the whole course of my life,

That may be worth your care, much lesse your trouble?

As the lowly shrub is to the lofty Cedar,

Or a molehill to Olympus, if compar'd,

I am to you Sir. Or suppose the Prince,

(Which cannot finde beliefe in me,) forgetting

The greatnesse of his birth and hopes, hath throwne

An eye of favour on me, in me punnish,

(That am the cause) the rashnesse of his youth.

Shall the Queene of the inhabitants of the ayre,

The Eagle that beares thunder on her wings,

In her angry mood destroy her hopefull young,

For suff'ring a Wren to perch too neere 'em?

Such is our disproportion.

Cozimo.

With what fervour

She pleades against her selfe!

Lidia.

For me poore Mayde,

I know the Prince to be so farre above me,

[Page] That my wishes cannot reach him. Yet I am

So much his creature, that to fix him in

Your wonted grace and favour, I'll abjure

His sight for ever, and betake my selfe

To a religious life (where in my prayers

I may remember him) and ne're see man more

But my ghostly father. Will you trust me Sir?

In truth I'll keepe my word? or if this faile,

A little more of feare what may befall him,

Will stop my breath for ever.

Cozimo.

Had you thus argu'd

Raises her.

As you were your selfe, and brought as advocates

Your health and beauty, to make way for you.

No crime of his could put on such a shape,

But I should looke with the eyes of mercy on it.

What would I give to see this diamond

In her perfect lustre, as she was before

The clouds of sicknesse dimm'd it! yet take comfort,

And as you would obtaine remission for

His trecherie to me, cheere your drooping spirits,

And call the blood againe into your cheekes,

And then pleade for him. And in such a habit

As in your highest hopes you would put on,

If we were to receive you for our Bride.

Lidia.

I'll doe my best Sir.

Cozimo.

And that best will be

A crowne of all felicity to me.

Exeunt.

The end of the fourth Act.

5

Actus quinti Scaena prima.

Sanazarro above.

Sanazar.

TIs prov'd in me, the curse of humane frailty

(Adding to our afflictions) makes us know

What's good, and yet our violent passions force us

To follow what is ill. Reason assur'd me

It was not safe to shave a Lyons skinne,

And that to trifle with a Soveraigne, was

[Page] [...][Page] [...]

[Page] To play with lightning: yet imperious beauty

Treading upon the neck of understanding,

Compell'd me to put off my naturall shape

Of loyall duty, to disguise my selfe

In the adulterate, and cobweb masque

Of disobedient trecherie. Where is now

My borrowed Greatnesse? or the promis'd lives

Of following Courtiers ecchoing my will?

In a moment vanish'd? Power that stands not on

Its proper base, which is peculiar onely

To absolute Princes, falls, or rises, with

Their frowne, or favour. The great Duke my Master

(Who almost chang'd me to his other selfe)

No sooner takes his beames of comfort from me,

But I as one unknowne, or unregarded,

Unpittied suffer! who makes intercession

To his mercy for me now? who does remember

The service I have done him? not a man;

And such as spake no language, but my Lord,

The favorite of Tuskanies grand Duke

Looke backwards.

Deride my madnesse. Ha! What noise of horses?

A goodly troope! This back-part of my prison

Allowes me liberty to see and know them.

Contarino! Yes, 'tis he, and Lodovico;

And the Dutchesse Fiorinda; Urbins heire,

A Princesse I have slighted; yet I weare

Her favours. And to teach me what I am,

She whom I scorn'd can onely meditate for me.

This way she makes, yet speake to her I dare not,

And how to make suit to her, is a taske

Of as much difficulty; yes; thou blessed pledge

Takes off the ring, & a pane of glasse.

Of her affectionayde me. This supplies

The want of penne and ink, and this of paper.

It must be so, and I in my Petition

Concise and pithie.

Enter Contarine leading in Fiorinda, Alphonso, Lodovico, Hieronimo, Calaminta.

Fiorinda.

'Tis a goodly pile this.

[Page]Hieroni.

But better by the owner.

Alphonso.

But most rich

In the great States it covers.

Fiorinda.

The Dukes pleasure

Commands us hither.

Contari.

Which was laid on us

To attend you to it.

Lodovico.

Signior Charomonte,

To see your Excellence his guest, will think

Himselfe most happy.

Fior.

Tye my shooe. What's that?

The pane thrown down.

A pane throwne from the window no winde stirring?

Calam.

And at your feet too falne, there's somthing writ on't.

Con.

Some Courtier belike would have it known

He wore a Diamond.

Calaminta.

Ha; it is directed:

To the Princesse Fiorinda.

Fiorinda.

We will reade it.

The inscription.

He whom you pleas'd to favour, is cast downe,

Past hope of rising, by the great Dukes frowne,

If by your gracious meanes, he cannot have

A pardon. And that got, be lives your slave.

The subscription.

Of men the most distressed, Sanazarro.

Of me the most belov'd, and I will save thee,

Or perish with thee. Sure thy fault must be

Of some prodigious shape, if that my prayers

And humble intercession to the Duke

Prevaile not with him. Here he comes, delay

Shall not make lesse my benefit.

Ent. Coz. & Carolo.

Cozimo.

What we purpose

Shall know no change, and therefore move me not,

We were made as properties, and what we shall

Determine of'em, cannot be call'd rigour,

But noble justice. When they prov'd disloyall,

They were cruell to themselves. The Prince that pardons

The first affront offer'd to majestie,

[Page] Invites a second, rend'ring that power

Subjects should tremble at, contemptible.

Ingratitude is a monster, Carolo,

To be strangl'd in the birth, not to be cherish'd.

Madame, you are happily met with.

Fiorinda.

Sir, I am

An humble Suitor to you; and the rather

Am confident of a grant, in that your Grace

When I made choyce to be at your devotion,

Vow'd to denie me nothing.

Cozimo.

To this minute

We have confirm'd it, what's your boone?

Fiorinda.

It is Sir,

That you in being gracious to your servant,

The ne're sufficiently prais'd Sanazarro,

(That now under your heavy displeasure suffers)

Would be good unto yourselfe. His services

So many, and so great (your storme of fury

Calm'd by your better judgment) must inform you,

Some little slip (for sure it is no more)

From his loyall duty, with your justice cannot

Make foule his faire deservings. Great Sir, therefore

Looke backward on his former worth; and turning

Your eye from his offence (what'tis I know not)

And I am confident, you will receive him

Once more into your favour.

Cozimo.

You say well,

You are ignorant in the nature of his fault,

Which when you understand (as we'll instruct you)

Your pitty will appeare a charity

(It being conferr'd on an unthankfull man)

To be repented. He's a traytor Madame

To you, to us, to gratitude, and in that

All crimes are comprehended.

Fiorinda.

If his offence

Aym'd at me onely, what so e're it is

'Tis freely pardon'd.

Cozimo.

This compassion in you

[Page] Must make the colour of his guilt more ugly:

The honors we have hourely heap'd upon him,

The titles, the rewards, to the envie of

The old Nobility, as the common people,

We now forbeare to touch at, and will onely

Insist on his grosse wrongs to you. You were pleas'd

Forgetting both your selfe and proper Greatnesse,

To favour him, nay, to court him to embrace

A happinesse, which on his knees with joy

He should have su'd for. Who repin'd not at

The grace you did him? yet in recompence

Of your large bounties, the disloyall wretch

Makes you a stale; and what he might be by you

Scorn'd, and derided, gives himselfe up wholly

To the service of another. If you can

Beare this with patience, we must say you have not

The bitternesse of spleene, or irefull passions

Familiar to women. Pause upon it,

And when you seriously have waigh'd his cariage,

Move us againe, if your reason will allow it,

His trechery knowne: and then if you continue

His advocate for him, we perhaps, because

We would denie you nothing, may awake

Our sleeping mercy. Carolo!

Carolo.

My Lord.

They whisper.

Fiorin.

To endure a rivall, that were equall to me,

Cannot but speake my poverty of spirit,

But an inferiour more; yet true love must not

Know, or degrees, or distances. Lidia may be

As farre above me in her forme, as she

Is in her birth beneath me, and what I

In Sanazarro lik'd, he loves in her.

But if I free him now, the benefit

Being done so timely, and confirming too

My strength & power, my soules best faculties being

Bent wholly to preserve him, must supply me

With all I am defective, and binde him

My creature ever. It must needes be so,

[Page] Nor will I give it o're thus.

Cozimo.

Does our Nephew

Beare his restraint so constantly, as you

Deliver it to us?

Carolo.

In my judgement Sir

He suffers more for his offence to you,

Then in his feare of what can follow it.

For he is so collected and prepar'd

To welcome that, you shall determine of him,

As if his doubts and feares were equall to him.

And sure he's not acquainted with much guilt,

That more laments the telling one untruth

Under your pardon still (for 'twas a fault Sir)

Then others that pretend to conscience, doe

Their crying secret sinnes.

Cozimo.

No more, this Glosse

Defends not the corruption of the text,

Urge it no more.

Carolo and the others whisper.

Fiorinda.

I once more must make bold Sir

To trench upon your patience. I have

Consider'd my wrongs duly. Yet that cannot

Divert my intercession for a man

Your Grace like me, once favour'd. I am still

A suppliant to you, that you would vouchsafe

The hearing his defence, and that I may

With your allowance see, and comfort him.

Then having heard all that he can alleadge

In his excuse, for being false to you,

Censure him as you please.

Cozimo.

You will o're-come,

There's no contending with you. Pray you enjoy

What you desire. And tell him, he shall have

A speedy tryall. In which we'll forbeare

To sit a Judge, because our purpose is

To rise up his accuser.

Fiorinda.

All encrease

Ofhappines wait on Cozimo.

Exeunt Fiorin. Calaminta.

Alphonso.

VVas it no more?

[Page]Carolo.

My Honor's pawn'd for it.

Contarino.

I'll second you.

Lodovi.

Since it is for the service and the safety

Of the hopefull Prince, fall what can fall, I'll runne

The desperate hazard.

Hieroni.

He's no friend to vertue

That does decline it.

They all knocle.

Cozimo.

Ha; what sue you for?

Shall we be ever troubl'd? doe not tempt

That anger may consume you.

Corolo.

Let it Sir,

The losse is lesse, though Innocents, we perish,

Then that your sisters sonne should fall unheard

Under your fury. Shall we feare to entreate

That grace for him, that are your faithfull servants,

VVhich you vouchsafe the Count, like us a subject?

Cozimo.

Did not we vowe, till sicknesse had forsooke

Thy daughter Lidia, and she appear'd

In her perfect health and beauty to pleade for him,

VVe were deafe to all perswasion?

Carolo.

And that hope Sir

Hath wrought a miracle. She is recover'd,

And if you please to warrant her, will bring

The penitent Prince before you.

Cozimo.

To enjoy

Such happines, what would we not dispense with?

Al., Ludo. and Hie.

We all kneele for the Prince.

Contarino.

Nor can it stand

With your mercy, that are gracious to Strangers,

To be cruell to your owne.

Cozimo.

But art thou certaine

I shall behold her at the best?

Carolo.

If ever

She was hansome, as it fits not me to say so,

She is now much better'd.

Cozimo.

Rise, thou art but dead

If this prove otherwise. Lidia appeare,

And feast an appetite almost pin'd to death

[Page] With longing expectation to behold

Thy excellencies; thou as beauties Queene

Shalt censure the detractors. Let my Nephew

Be led in triumph under her command,

We'll have it so; and Sanazarro tremble

To think whom he hath slander'd; we'll retire

Our selves a little, and prepare to meete

A blessing, which imagination tells us

We are not worthy of; and then come forth

But with such reverence, as if I were

(My selfe the Priest, the sacrifice my heart)

To offer at the Altar of that goodnesse

That must or kill or save me.

Exit Cozimo.

Carolo.

Are not these

Strange gambols in the Duke?

Alphonso.

Great Princes have

Like meaner men their weaknesse.

Lodovico.

And may use it

Without controule or check.

Contarino.

'Tis fit they should,

Their priviledge were lesse else, then their Subjects.

Hier.

Let them have their humors, there's no crossing 'em.

Actus quinti Scaena ultima.

Fiorinda,

Sanazarro,

Calaminta.

Sanazar.

ANd can it be your bounties should fall down

In showers on my ingratitude? or the wrongs

Your Greatnesse should revenge, teach you to pittie?

What retribution can I make? what service

Pay to your goodnesse, that in some proportion

May to the world expresse, I would be thankfull?

Since my engagements are so great, that all

My best endevours to appeare your creature

Can but proclaime my wants, and what I owe

To your magnificence.

Fiorinda.

All debts are discharg'd

[Page] In this acknowledgement: yet since you please

I shall impose some termes of satisfaction

For that which you professe your selfe oblig'd for,

They shall be gentle ones, and such as will not

I hope afflict you.

Sanazar.

Make me understand

Great Princesse, what they are, and my obedience

Shall with all cheerefull willingnesse subscribe

To what you shall command.

Fiorinda.

I will binde you to

Make good your promise. First, I then enjoyne you

To love a Lady, that a Noble way

Truly affects you, and that you would take

To your protection and care the Dukedome

Of Urbin, which no more is mine, but yours.

And that when you have full possession of

My person, as my fortunes, you would use me

Not as a Princesse, but instruct me in

The duties of an humble wife, for such

(The priviledge of my birth no more remembred)

I will be to you. This consented to

All injuries forgotten, on your lips

I thus signe your quietus.

Sanazar.

I am wretched

In having but one life to be imploy'd

As you please to dispose it. And believe it,

If it be not already forfeited

To the furie of my Prince, as 'tis your gift,

With all the faculties of my soule, I'll study

In what I may to serve you.

Fiorinda.

I am happy

Enter Glovauni and Lidia.

In this assurance. What

Sweet Lady's this?

Sanazar.

'Tis Lidia Madame, she. —

Fiorinda.

I understand you:

Nay, blush not, by my life she is a rare one!

And if I were your Judge I would not blame you,

To like and love her. But Sir you are mine now,

[Page] And I presume so on your constancie,

That I dare not be jealous.

Sanazarro.

All thoughts of her

Are in your goodnesse buried.

Lidia.

Pray you Sir

Be comforted, your innocence should not know

What 'tis to feare, and if that you but looke on

The guards that you have in your selfe, you cannot.

The Duke's your Uncle Sir, and though a little

Incens'd against you, when he sees your sorrow

He must be reconcil'd. What rugged Tartar,

Or Canniball, though bath'd in humane gore,

But looking on your sweetnesse, would forget

His cruell nature, and let fall his weapon,

Though then aym'd at your throat?

Giovanni.

O Lidia,

Of Mayds the honor, and your sexes glory.

It is not feare to die, but to loose you

That brings this Feaver on me. I will now

Discover to you, that which till this minute

I durst not trust the ayre with. Ere you knew

What power the magique of your beauty had,

I was inchanted by it, lik'd, and lov'd it,

My fondnesse still encreasing with my yeares:

And flatter'd by false hopes, I did attend

Some blessed oportunity to move

The Duke with his consent to make you mine.

But now, such is my starre-cross'd destinie,

When he beholds you as you are, he cannot

Denie himselfe the happinesse to enjoy you.

And I as well in reason may entreat him

To give away his Crowne, as to part from

A jewell of more value, such you are:

Yet howsoever, when you are his Dutchesse,

And I am turn'd into forgotten dust,

Pray you love my memory. I should say more

But I am eue off.

Ent. Coz. Carol. Con. & others.

Sanazar.

The Duke? that counvenance once,

[Page] When it was cloth'd in smiles, shew'd like an Angels,

But now 'tis folded up in clouds of fury,

'Tis terrible to looke on.

The Duke admiring Lidia.

Lidia.

Sir.

Cozimo.

A while

Silence your musicall tongue, and let me feast

My eyes with the most ravishing object that

They ever gaz'd on. There's no miniature

In her faire face, but is a copious theme

Which would (discours'd at large of) make a volume.

What cleare arch'd browes? what sparkling eyes? the Lillies

Contending with the Roses in her cheekes,

Who shall most set them off? what ruby lips?

Or unto what can I compare her neck,

But to a rock of christall? every limb

Proportion'd to loves wish, and in their neatnesse

Add lustre to the riches of her habit,

Not borrow from it.

Lidia.

You are pleas'd to shew Sir

The fluencie of your language, in advancing

A Subject much unworthy.

Cozimo.

How unworthy?

By all the vowes which Lovers offer at

The Cyprian Goddesse Altars, eloquence

It selfe presuming, as you are, to speake you,

Would be struck dumb. And what have you deserv'd then?

(VVretches you kneele too late) that have endevour'd

To spout the poyson of your black detraction

On this immaculate whitenesse? was it malice

To her perfections? or —

Fiorinda.

Your Highnesse promis'd

A gracious hearing to the Count.

Lidia.

And Prince too;

Doe not make voyde so just a grant.

Cozimo.

We will not,

Ladies in the chaires of State

Yet since their accusation must be urg'd,

And strongly, ere their weak defence have hearing,

We seat you here as Judges to determine

[Page] Of your grosse wrongs and ours. And now remembring

Whose Deputies you are, be neither sway'd,

Or with particular spleene, or foolish pittie,

For neither can become you.

Carolo.

There's some hope yet

Since they have such gentle Iudges.

Cozimo.

Rise, and stand forth then,

And heare with horror to your guilty soules

What we will prove against you. Could this Princesse

(Thou enemie to thy selfe) stoope her high flight

Of towring greatnesse to invite thy lownesse

To looke up to it, and with nimble wings

Of gratitude, couldst thou forbeare to meet it?

Were her favours boundlesse in a noble way,

And warranted by our allowance, yet

In thy acceptation there appear'd no signe

Of a modest thankfulnesse?

Fiorinda.

Pray you forbeare

To presse that farther, 'tis a fault we have

Already heard, and pardon'd.

Cozimo.

We will then passe over it, & briefly touch at that

Which does concern our selfe. In which both being

Equall offenders, what we shall speake, points

Indifferently at either. How we rais'd thee

(Forgetfull Sanazarro of our Grace)

To a full possession of power, and honors,

It being too well knowne, we'll not remember.

And what thou wert (rash youth) in expectation

(And from which headlong thou hast throwne thy selfe)

Not Florence, but all Tuskany can witnesse

With admiration. To assure thy hopes,

We did keepe constant to a widdowed bed,

And did deny our selfe those lawfull pleasures,

Our absolute power and height of blood allow'd us.

Made both, the keyes that open'd our hearts secrets,

And what you spake believ'd as Oracles.

But you in recompence of this to him

That gave you all, to whom you ow'd your being

[Page] VVith trecherous lies endevour'd to conceale

This jewell from our knowledge, which our selfe

Could onely lay just clayme too.

Giovanni.

'Tis most true Sir.

Sinazar.

We both confesse a guilty cause.

Cozimo.

Looke on her,

Is this a beauty fit to be imbrac'd

By any Subjects armes? Can any tyre

Become that forhead, but a Diadem?

Or should we grant your being false to us

Could be excus'd, your trechery to her

In seeking to deprive her of that greatnesse

(Her matchless forme consider'd) she was born too,

Must ne're finde pardon? we have spoken Ladies

Like a rough Orator, that brings more truth

Then rhetorique to make good his accusation,

And now expect your sentence.

The Ladies descend from the State.

Lidia.

In your birth Sir

You were mark'd out the Iudge of life, and death,

And we that are your Subjects to attend

With trembling feare your doome.

Fiorinda.

VVe doe resigne

This Chaire as onely proper to your selfe.

Giovan.

And since in justice we are lost, we flie

Unto your saving mercie.

All kneeling.

Sanazarro.

VVhich sets off

A Prince much more then rigour.

Carolo.

And becomes him

When 'tis express'd to such as fell by weaknesse

(That being a twin-borne brother to affection)

Better then wreathes of conquest.

Hie. Lod. Con. Alph. VVe all-speake

Their language mighty Sir.

Cozimo.

You know our temper,

And therefore with more boldnesse venter on it.

And would not our consent to your demands

Deprive us of a happinesse hereafter

[Page] Ever to be despair'd of, we perhaps

Might hearken neerer to you, and could wish

With some qualification or excuse

You might make lesse the mountaines of your crimes,

And so invite our clemencie to feast with you.

But you that knew with what impatiencie

Of griefe we parted from the faire Clarinda

Our Dutchesse, (let her memory still be sacred)

And with what imprecations on our selfe

We vow'd, not hoping e're to see her equall,

Ne're to make triall of a second choyce,

If Nature fram'd not one that did excell her,

(As this Mayds beauty prompts us that she does)

And yet with oathes then mix'd with teares, upon

Her monument we swore our eye should never

Againe be tempted, 'tis true, and those vowes

Are registred above, something here tells me.

Carolo thou heardst us sweare.

Carolo.

And sweare so deeply,

That if all vvomens beauties were in this

(As she's not to be nam'd with the dead Dutchess.)

Nay, all their vertues bound up in one story

(Of which mine is scarce an Epitome)

If you should take her as a vvife, the waight

Of your perjuries would sink you. If I durst

I had told you this before.

Cozimo.

'Tis strong truth Carolo,

And yet what was necessity in us

Cannot free them from treason.

Carolo.

There's your error.

The Prince in care to have you keepe your vowes

Made unto heaven, vouchsaf'd to love my daughter.

Lidia.

He told me so indeed Sir.

Fiorinda.

And the Count

Averr'd as much to me.

Cozimo.

You all conspire

To force our mercy from us.

[Page]Carolo.

VVhich giv'n up

To after-times, preserves you unforsworne,

An Honor, which will live upon your Tombe

When your Greatnesse is forgotten.

Cozimo.

Though we know

All this is practise, and that both are false,

Such reverence we will pay to dead Clarinda,

And to our serious oathes, that we are pleas'd

VVith our owne hand to blinde our eyes, and not

Know what we understand. Here Giovanni

VVe pardon thee, and take from us in this,

More then our Dukedome, love her. As I part

VVith her, all thoughts of vvomen flie fast from vs.

Sanazarro, we forgive you. In your service

To this Princesse merit it. Yet let not others

That are in trust and grace, as you have beene,

By the example of our lenity,

Presume upon their Soveraignes clemencie.

A showe.

All.

Long live great Cozimo.

Enter Caland. Petre.

Caland.

Sure the Duke is

In the giving vaine they are so lowd. Come on Spouse,

We have heard all, and we will have our boone too.

Cozimo.

What is't?

Caland.

That your Grace, in remembrance of

My share in a dance, and that I play'd your part

When you should have drunk hard, would get this Signiors grant

To give this Damsell to me in the Church,

For we are contracted; in it you shall doe

Your Dukedome pleasure.

Cozimo.

How?

Calandr.

Why the whole race

Of such as can act naturally fooles parts,

Are quite worne out, and they that doe survive,

Doe onely zanie us; and we will bring you,

If we die not without issue, of both sexes

Such chopping mirth-makers, as shall preserve

Perpetuall cause of sport, both to your Grace,

[Page] And your posterity, that sad melancholly

Shall ne're approach you.

Cozimo.

We are pleas'd in it,

And will pay her portion. May the passage prove

Of what's presented, worthy of your love,

And favour, as was aym'd, and we have all

That can in compasse of our vvishes fall.

The end.

[Page]

Information about this book

Title statement

The great Duke of Florence A comicall historie. As it hath beene often presented with good allowance by her Maties Servants at the Phœnix in Drurie Lane. Written by Philip Massinger.

Massinger, Philip, 1583-1640.

Edition statement

1636

Publication

Publisher

Text Creation Partnership,

Place of publication

Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) :

Date

2003-01 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1).

ID [DLPS]

A07239

ID [STC]

STC 17637

ID [STC]

ESTC S112420

ID [EEBO-CITATION]

99847674

ID [PROQUEST]

99847674

ID [VID]

12728

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Series

Early English books online.

Notes

(EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A07239)

Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 12728)

Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1475-1640 ; 1074:11)

Source

— The great Duke of Florence A comicall historie. As it hath beene often presented with good allowance by her Maties Servants at the Phœnix in Drurie Lane. Written by Philip Massinger., Massinger, Philip, 1583-1640..

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[80] p.

Printed [by Miles Flesher] for John Marriot,. London :: 1636.. (In verse.) (Printer's name from STC.) (Signatures: A⁴ (-A1) B-K⁴ L¹ (=A1).) (Leaf L1 is printed as A1.) (Reproduction of the original in the British Library.)

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