[Page] THE Womens Conquest: A TRAGI-COMEDY. As it was Acted by his Highness the Duke of York's Servants.

Written by the Honourable E. H.

Me lectori credere mallem,
Quam spectatoris fastidia ferre superbi.

LONDON, Printed by J. M. for H. Herringman, at the Sign of the Blue Anchor in the Lower Walk of the New Exchange, 1671.

PREFACE.

THE best excuse that can be given for a Preface before a Play, is when the Reader is not troubled with an Apology for the Authors faults, it being too much to abuse his patience with both; since if just, they will soon be perceived by an impartial apprehension, and more, that he bestows on the world a needless So­phism; there being nothing more hard, then to cozen men by an excuse of Wit, for which the generality of judgments have so little kindness, as they will hardly receive any; nor do I find that the Antient Poets, or any of most repute of our Modern, assumed this kind of vindication to themselves; though perhaps they might have done it, with more assurance of success, then any that now most confidently undertake it; either as they contemn'd the impotent censures and cavils, that were spread against their performances, or else a judicious confirmation in themselves, that their works were the best defiances that could be given their Enemies.

Not that I judge our unimitable Johnson, or those wonders of Wit, Beaumont and Fletcher, were without their failings, or that in some things, their Plays were not questionable, as well as ours; though I could wish our Muses were so happily adorned, as their spots and [Page] beauties appear together: and I doubt it may be truly affirmed, that in the greatest of their failings, they fell more below themselves, then beneath us; which gives us some caution not to be too busie with their faults.

It is one thing to be excellent, and another to be absolutely perfect; the Diamond doth require some po­lishing, though of most commendable figure and bright­ness: The like may be said of these excellent Poets, their thoughts were always pretious, though not alike polished and set off by themselves.

Wit is one of the best Talents of nature, but like her other productions in Men, must not expect an absolute perfection; it hath been long a growing from the Antients to the Modern, and from them to us, and yet we do not find its growth compleated; like ambi­tion, it seems to have no limit, and yet confin'd in its as­piring: there are some, perhaps, vain enough to judge it high in themselves, though far enough from the top of Parnassus; and notwithstanding all the hast, such en­deavour to make, I doubt whether the swiftness of their Muse may not fail them by the way.

Most men are naturally inclin'd to give to Antiquity its due respects, and there is some reason for it (if no more) in that we must be old our selves; but he were weakly an admirer of times past, that by an over dotage on them, would continue himself in a Childhood of knowledge; since that were to go backward with in­genuity, as we set too forward theirs, they have their fame, and we must expect ours; though at present they challenge so long a prescription, that until ours [Page] does number more then the three parts of an age, in equal repute with theirs. I make some doubt whe­ther the best Rhime, or Reason, that the Stage is now beholding to, will establish us as great in the judgment of those who shall succeed us; which, as I am far from assuming it to my self, in behalf of any undertaking of mine, so I shall as unwillingly allow it to the boldest of Pretenders; besides this, we are obliged in so great a measure to those great Artificers of Invention, and Wit, by which they raised our Stage to its former glory, as also in a high degree for those excellent rules and observations, which (if well heeded) cannot but im­prove our endeavours in this kind, and from whom (if we do well) it is impossible to differ so far, as to declare them Enemies, and like the example of the Trojan Hero, to erect a Trophee and superscribe on it,

Aeneas haec de Danais victoribus arma.

Butas I am nothing concern'd, or envy the reputati­on of any man, on what account soever the world is pleased to allow it him; so I conceive that others have as little to do with mine, and I will be as free in deli­vering my opinion, as I willingly allow them the liber­ty of theirs; since I do not conceive the Muses have yet established their Dictator in Poetry; though I am not desirous to controvert any thing (except I shall be ne­cessarily mov'd thereunto) and which signifies little more then to try who can squirt Ink sarthest: to which purpose, I will retire to my self, desiring the Readers excuse, that I have led him so far about, before I have spoken of my Play; in order to which, I have chiefly [Page] design'd this discourse; having made my self so far a party on the side of our former Poets, that I have com­posed this Play in some resemblance to theirs of the like nature, which in my judgment I have esteemed best. I have given it the name likewise of Tragi-Comedy, as I find they have done some of theirs, which I need not particularize to the Reader, because they are well enough known to be at this day no inconside­rable ornament and entertainment of the Stage; not that I will undertake to justifie the word (since every Play, if strictly taken, must be either Tragedy or Co­medy, excluding Farce, which does not so much as de­serve a Dramatis Personae to be set before it, as we shall soon manifest) And it was doubtless created by former Poets, who finding that mixt Plays were very sutable to the English Stage, and that it was somewhat below the denomination of their Heroicks to call them simply Comedies (which as they are corruptly under­stood, imply, little more then scurrility and laughter, though of far greater dignity, if rightly apply'd) They allow'd them the names of Tragi-Comedies, & I do not find but the highest of our English Tragedies (as Cata­line, The Maids Tragedy, Rollo, The Cardinal and Tray­tor) considerable enough to be rank'd with the best of these, are at all undervalued by their Authors, in being sweetned with mirth; for as all people do not come pur­posely to sympathize their passions with those of the Plays, so some will expect to be diverted accordingly; nor do I believe that it is less natural (as some have thought) to form a Play, that shall have this variety of [Page] Genius, then I do to find of mankind some grave, re­serv'd, fierce, cruel, others of more aiery and pleasant converse, to mingle humours and affairs together.

If we take our observations from the Courts of Prin­ces, before we descend lower, we shall find it familiar enough (and doubtless Plays are most profitable as well as delightful, when they so represent humane things and actions, as even the greatest are as obvious to our re­marques, as those of a lower orb of experience) nor do I conceive any kind of Plays more difficult to be truly form'd, then such as have this Heroick mixture, because it is not easie to give humour and mirth a natu­ral rise and generous correspondency with the grandeur of the other, which if sutable in point of character, can­not render it less grateful to the Audience, it being as it were two Plays in one.

Nor do I find that the serious Plays (now in use) wholly relie upon their Heroick foundation, why else are we diverted by Scenes, Machins, Habits, Jiggs, and Dances; but to give more variety of entertainment to the Spectators? either as they are not otherwise to be trusted, or least the Audience should be too soberly tired without them, which I will not presume to ima­gine: and whether it be not as natural to admit of a course of Comedy that is made essential to the Plot and dignity of the Play; I leave it to my Reader to judge.

Verse that ends in Rhime is generally now the Mode of Heroick Plays, but whether so natural and proper, I will not controvert, otherwise then by declaring my [Page] opinion, that I like it not so well as I do Verse without it, and I conceive I have reason enough on my side; for who can believe that words must not of necessity lose much of their grace, and emphasis, when deliver'd in Rhime, which limits so much of both to it self; or that the thoughts of Seneca in his Tragedies could have been so well, or better expressed in any language whatsoever in Rhime (though to an ear that is most de­lighted with the noise) then they are delivered by him; or that our former Poets have been exceeded in heighth of expression and fancy, because their Muses have mounted without these Bells jingling at their heels; doubtless a judicious spirit may soon observe the difference, nor can lines in Rhime ever run so smooth, but there will be some unnaturalness in them as to the freedom of dialogue, and converse (which Plays should resemble) because Verse of that kind will of necessity be sententious and restrain it, and conse­quently be improper to manage the various intregues of a Play, or else in plain terms be forced to want them: Nor is a grave or wise manner of speaking to be allow'd the wittiest, because that which is sober enough as to Wisdom, may be far enough off from being Witty; and he that will not grant the former to be more easie to invent, must conclude that the Wit of Poetry is as familiar with Men as Gravity and Prudence; nay, it is plainly to be observed, that generally Men write better for the Stage this way, (I mean in Rhime) then they have, or can do, after the manner of our for­mer Poets without it; which is some demonstration [Page] that the latter is less difficult, though more unnatural then the former: And for my greater Authority I will adde these few excellent Verses of our Famous John­son on this subject, which he calls a fit Rhime against Rhime.

Rhime the rack of finest Wits
That extracteth but by fits
True conceipts,
Spoiling senses of their treasure,
Couzening judgment with a measure,
But falle weights.
Soon as lazie thou wert known,
All good Poetry hence was flown, &c.

And as I doubt not well enough to wave any oblique exception that any man can throw on my Opinion (since patronized by his) so I do not detract from the deserts of any who have done well in this kind, otherwise then by declaring, that as I find it not used by our former Poets, I likewise do not approve it, or have made use of it in this Play of mine; 'tis true, according to their example (which I wish I could have better imitated) I have writ a Masque in Rhime, and closed some Scenes, and all my Acts likewise with it, which places have ever been allowed most proper for it, because they are Period in which the Audience may best expect a weighty and sententious close; and whensoever Verse was us'd by Ben Johnson, as it is in Sylla's Ghost, or scatter'd in some places in Sejanus; I cannot but observe his Art and Nature together, in not confining the periods of sense and Rhime together (as is too much us'd now) [Page] but most commonly by carrying the sense of one verse into part of another, which Elevates the stile of Verse (as is to be seen in Virgil) and without which it will never shew so like Prose, and proper for Dialogue, as it ought to do; an example to be worthily imitated by such as will write in Verse, to whose consideration I presume to commend it.

In the Epick way, I judge that Rhime is far more al­lowable, (though the Antients us'd it not) because Verse of that kind may be granted to appear more grave and stately, which represents a continued gravity of Style and Matter, (which not withstanding, by reason of the great extent of the Argument, the variety of the Descriptions and Dialogues, will be more varied in this then in any other manner of using Verse, as is well known to the judicious) besides, that our English Lan­guage is neither so copious and great, as Greek or Latin, as must needs be perceived in Homer and Virgil Translated; so that though Rhime in Verse be of little use to sense (and consequently one of the poorest ta­lents of the Muses) yet as it confers on Verse a Solid and sententious manner of expression (a fault in Dra­matick Poesie, if two frequently us'd, as is discours'd before) I conceive it may be decently admitted in the Epick way; but then it ought to be written with a free and unconfined nature, as is before instanc'd in the measures of Virgil; and as it is my judgment, so I have made it practicable in that small Heroick Poem of mine, called The Brittish Princess, which I will not presume to commend, more then that it is so far at least an imitator of Antiquity.

[Page] Neither do I believe that Sir William D'avenant, who was the first introducer of Rhime on the Stage, did o­therwise intend it then for vocal Representations, and Operas, (in which it may do well) rather then for Plays, as was known in his Peru, and Siege of Rhodes. And I presume that my Lord of Orrery (whose Ingenuity in Verse brought it more in fashion; in those ornaments he bestowed on the Stage in Mustapha, and other of his Heroick Compositions) would not judge it a debasing of their worth, if they were distinguished by the name of Poems, instead of Plays, for reasons that he is better able to give himself, then any which I have here presumed to offer; but enough of this subject, which I thought fit to touch, to justifie so far my excuse in not complying in my Play, with that manner of Verse written in others.

As likewise that I have not been help'd by any Hi­story or known Tale in forming of my Plot (not but that I conceive it very allowable, if well managed, and that the truth of History be not evidently impaired by it, which were to render the actions of men contra­dictory and fabulous, where they are otherwise verifyed by authority) being willing to believe that a reasonable Genius (and such a one I will only presume to) might produce that which should be at least as new and useful, as any thing could be taken from either; nor do I find but the greatest Plays formerly were the Poets own Tales, as well as Plots; and doubtless they found few better then they could devise, as also that it was natu­ral and delightful for them to manage such best.

[Page] There are three things which chiefly the Muses re­quire to compleat their perfections; the first is the beauty of Invention or Design, its two fair seconds, Eloquence and Wit, with an useful improvement of these to our converse and manners, (nor did I ever ob­serve any man so ignorantly confident to affirm, that a Poem, or Play, could be compleated with Humours and Characters alone) though above all, the first is to be allowed the greater value, as being the fountain from whence these streams must flow.

Thus a Poet is said to be a maker or feigner, as the word [...] signifies in Greek, from whence it is derived according to Aristotle; in like manner the Structures of Poesie are not decently to be raised like other buildings, in which the foundation is the design of one man, the model anothers, the fitting of the timber, and other materials a thirds; whilest the Poet should not only be the sole Architect, but all other operations contrived and performed by himself; besides it destroys the im­provement of Fiction (the exercise of the Muses) pi­nioning those wings they delight to spread, and doth advantage, though little more, then to be lazily diligent; insomuch that it is very observable, since Translating hath been so much practis'd, and taking from Romances and Foreign Plays, the compositions arising from them appear not less disproportion'd and uneven, then if a Painter undertaking to describe a History, should from the drawings of Masters, and Figures in Print (to a ju­dicious eye very discernable) take a posture from one, a head from another, a body from a third, and having [Page] put them on such legs as he shall make for them, confi­dently averre he hath performed the noble invention and design that belongs to a Story Painter. And I doubt not to affirm, that the great veneration and repute of former Tales amongst the Antients, lessened not only fiction and contrivance in their works, but in like man­ner did mightily prejudice most of all their Successors in Poesie, who have endeavoured to lay their designs after the same manner; insomuch, that who judicially examine it, may soon find how thin and deficient their Poems were, in respect of that beauty their sublime ex­pressions gave them, (excepting Virgill's the Prince of Poets to which I attribute all things) And had they equally been happy in the glory of the other, there had been small honour to have been gotten by the Muses at this day.

And that I may come nearer my Reader, I will pre­sume to say, that I should be unwilling (for the reasons here given) to have been Author of the contrivance of Statius, Tasso, or any I have seen since Virgil in the E­pick way, as in the Dramatick I dislike the Tragedian Seneca in the choice of his Argument and Characters, in both of which, he is so far out-done by our English Poets, that he cannot in that kind (notwithstanding the greatness of his thoughts) stand in any comparison with them; which can be attributed to no other cause, then his doting on those pitiful Tales of Medea, Hippolitus, Theseus, Hercules, and the like (that were less worthily then long the esteem of Antient Poets;) and it is some­thing more a wonder, that the Schools being so frequent [Page] amongst them in those days, they should forget to im­prove this obvious Philosophical Maxim, Omne agens agit propter finem, which as it holds in all humane acti­ons, so its prudence ought to be heightned as far as pos­sible, both in Epick, and Dramatick writing.

I confess a Poet should not be so negligent, as to be unacquainted with the Tales and Fictions of the Anti­ents, in which he ought to be well knowing, as far as necessary, or as he ought to be conversant with all o­ther learning of times past, since the Muses seldom vouchsafe their favours, where there is not a preparati­on sutable to their dignity and greatness; as it were absurd to invite a Queen, and have no ornaments fit for her reception; so on the other side, the advanta­ges of literature should be rather assistant to Fiction, then any way burthening or depressing it; Virgil per­haps of all Poets was most learn'd, yet shews us in all parts of his works, that his Muse was the Mistress of his Studies, and that their best splendors, were to serve for her greater delight and entertainment. In other Sciences, Learning is a Tutor, but in this of Poe­try, Fiction must illustrate, and guide that, leading us unto those pleasant retirements of the Muses, where as from various and beautiful platforms of Gardens, is be­held the particular designments of shades, walks, and flowers.

Words are the children of thought, and man must be granted to have first imagined speech, before he could express any conception of his by words; so that thought, was both the primitive ground, and glory of [Page] Tongues, which successively came to be more improved; and doubtless it was the Wit of Poets that (above all) refin'd their own languages; so that I wonder to find it affirmed, that Ben. Johnson (who had such a soul of thought) did by Translating beautifie our Tongue; as if his ingenuity was not to be allowed the glory of do­ing far more by its single strength. I should be loth to wish any so ill, as that he were alive to answer the im­putation; however, I could be well content, that such as will make him their president in Translating from o­thers, could dispose of it so well, and that they had like wise as much Wit, and Learning besides.

Translating, may I grant, adds some perfection to a language, because it introduces the wit of others into its own words, as the French have of late done well in theirs; and we have pretty well requited their kind­ness to us, in rendring so much of theirs in ours; but where I can make use of good Originals, I shall be more sparing of my esteem of Copies, and I dare averre, that the Ingenuiries of Johnson, Beaumont, and Fletcher, with some other of our former Poets, left our language more improved, as it expressed their thoughts, then if the best of Italian, Spanish, and French Wit, had been Translated by the greatest of Pens. I wish it be our good fortune (for the benefit of future times) to leave our Tongue as much inlarged and imbellished, as they left it to us.

With as little reason can any man affirm, that Virgil did not elevate the Latin Tongue to that strength and sublimeness of style, from the vivacity of his thoughts, rather then from those few conceptions, and perhaps [Page] the meanest of his works, which he copied from Homer, whether in honour of that antient Tale of Troy, or some other of his Fables which the world had long admired (as it was the manner of the Antients, as is already men­tion'd) and I doubt are very imperfect in Homer, if compared with the manner of his delivering them in his second Book, for which his more victorious Laurel might deserve no less then what he expresses of himself, on a­nother occasion in his Georgicks, in reference to the Grecian Poets;

Primus ego in patriam mecum (modo vita supersit)
Aonio rediens deducam vertice musas.

Works that are great and singular, will, and ought to be the imitation of men (as is more particularly the case of Epick Poesie) in those few Authors that have writ of it in so many Ages; so that Statius and Tasso had some kind of noble emulation in endeavouring to be the Successors of Virgil, notwithstanding they were behold­ing to him for much of their Model and Characters, and could not come so near his height, as he exceeded Ho­mers; like small Structures that must be content to be over-looked by a more stately Palace, though they epi­tomize its resemblance; whilest in the Dramatick way, the Genius of men hath not been so confin'd, nor any particular manner and authority in point of writing so much acknowledged for excellent; wherefore the same license is not reasonably to be admitted, but if we will needs make the first our Presidents, for the liberty that [Page] is now taken in the latter, it were well for the Stage, if such things were only imitated of our Antient Poets, that have had transcendent applause from our former Theaters: And doubtless it is a commendable pru­dence in Writers of what kind soever, if they endeavour to heighten their Works and Stiles, from the examples of others, that have been most approved in the same kind, (since example were of small use otherwise) as he that would be master of the Latin Tongue, might be well content to imitate the stiles of Cicero and Caesar; the like may be said of some excellent Presidents in our own Language, the defect whereof is no small rea­son that neither Latin, nor English is so well written, as it might be at this day.

Having thus far discours'd of Heroick Plays (and such other things as I thought incident to them, and to which this Dramatick composition of mine is in part relating) I shall in the next place (though with less pro­lixity) give my Reader an account of the other part of it, which is Comedy, and of that kind of Poesie in general.

Though the Nature of Comedy be not the same with Tragedy, the end of it is; for Instruction is the part of both, as man may be disciplin'd under several School­masters.

The word Comedy was derived from the Greek word [...], or more largely understood by the An­tients of a Play representing humane life and man­ners; whereas the business of Tragedy is in a high­er nature to dispose and elevate the intrigues of passi­ons and affections; I mean such as depend on Ambiti­on, [Page] Revenge, Love, Honour, and the like, and so detect their vices accordingly. As it is the duty of Comedy to do the same, in those that come nearest our Morali­ties, though it must be granted that the representation of Tragedy, cannot be so universally practicable (and consequently not of that benefit to mankind) because its concernments, and actions, are more sublime, and separated from the universality of men, rather fit only for the ear of Princes, (who are very often the greatest number of characters in a Tragical Fable) then for a lower degree of Persons; which shews us, that Comedy hath some merit above it, in that it is of a more univer­sal nature. Upon which occasion our famous Johnson well observes, that Lysippus was not able to form with his Graver, or Apelles to Paint with his Pencil, those life stroaks and touches, that true Comedy represents, in respect of the various affections of the mind, in behold­ing the insolence of some in joy, the melancholy fret­ings of others, the raging madness of such as are un­done with love, avarice, riot, tortur'd with expectation, consum'd with fear, &c. as he gives the example, and to whom we are obliged for so many excellent Drama­tick Characters to this purpose.

And as Tragedy requires a strong intrigue and Plot (I wish it were more observed now adays) as being the representation of highest passions, and actions; so Co­medy in like manner would abound with all delightful variety of both, by which we behold the humours, and inclinations of men, in due elevation, and magnitude; not that it is requisite that all the characters in a Play [Page] should be equally great, or manage alike the main drift of the Drama, (as lines drawn from the center of a cir­cle, have an equal extent within its circumference) but rather receive a becoming proportion, which is indeed the Golden Rule to be observed in Plays, and requires no less the invention, and skill of the Poet to make it practicable; for as in Mathematical Operations, there is nothing more hard then to be cunning in the Symme­try of lines, and figures they express; so the Poets disposition of his characters, ought in as high a degree to be proportionable to that body of thought he de­signs for them. This is that which enobles Language and Wit, giving to both a decorum on the Theater; for though the Muses prescribe few rules, they abhor irregularity, and license, 'tis their sublime instinct, where their excellencies meet in any, as is divinely ex­pressed by Ovid.

Sedibus aethereis spiritus ille venit.

And as Lipsius affirms, Scio Poetam neminem praestan­tem fuisse, sine parte quadam uberiore divinae mentis.

Plays that are Historical, or have much of narration in them, are generally ingrateful, because they dull the edge of the hearers, which as it is sharpen'd by obser­ving what is actually produc'd, so it is impair'd by hearing of relation instead of action, whether it be true or false, an unpardonable error in most of the French Writers, who it seems did not well apprehend that things actually represented, have more of nature, and life in them, then any account of them, that can be given in words; as likewise such Plays may be cen­sured, [Page] the body of whose design consists more essenti­ally on the mistakes of persons, then the intrigues of passions, as most of the Spanish do, and some of the French, where the grand design is to keep the specta­tors in suspence, till it end with discovery of the true person, by reason that it cannot be of so much concern to an Audience, as when Plays sympathize with those passions that are observable in men; which is so obvi­ous, that I need say no more as to these particulars, they being equally defects in Tragedy and Comedy.

And as Plays in either kind, ought to have the same end, in respect of manners, so there is an Analogy and commendable resemblance of characters in both, though of different natures, according to the rule, contraria jux­ta se apposita, magis elucescunt. For as in the characters of Tragedy there will be some violent in love, others haugh­ty, rash, and turbulent, above what is ordinary to be ob­served in men; so Comedy will have its extravagancies (besides many more) in morose, heedless, timorous and foolish persons, which are images of the like contrary effects of nature; in like manner, the designs and ad­ventures depending on these, have their proportions; for as Dramatick characters will have some remoteness from the ordinary actions of men, so must their under­takings be sutable; wherefore I wonder to find it af­firmed, that extravagancies of actions should be fixed on Farce, (which is rather an entertainment of Mimik­ry, than a Play in any kind) since Plays must not be so even, as to represent nothing above nature, which were to make them more reasonable, then Poetical; [Page] besides, it is a commendable license (especially in Poe­try) to represent what is rather useful to know, (as it seems actually done) then the possibility of it, so it pro­vide well for our manners; as we see in Comedies, where we are taught from the mouths of Fools, and by such extravagancies as are in some kind impossible to be supposed, how we may become the wiser; why else did our learned Johnson compleat that great work of his Alchymist, with such persons that conti­nue a prosecution of extravagancy of humour or im­possibility together, (except the making of the Philo­sophers Stone be held a known truth) or that his Dol Cômon representing the Queen of Fairies, was not to pass upon the weak capacity of Dapper deceived by it? The same may be affirmed of his Cynthias Revells, where Cupid, Mercury, and Eccho have parts, or some­what more extraordinary in his Devil's an Ass, where the grand Demon, and a lesser, are made characters, as Satyrical Reflections on Vanity and Vice, to be cor­rected by them; which shews, that the truth or possibi­lity of the characters, is less to be considered, then the Morality they aim at. Et hercule omnis salsa di­cendi ratio in eo est, ut aliter quam est rectum verumque dicatur, as Quintilian observes.

As the chief end of Comedy is improvement of manners, so the mirth arising thence, is to entertain our passions, and affections with delight proper there­unto; wherefore to make laughter the chiefest end of Comedy, is to impair its more superiour esteem, since what is ridiculous, is not therefore Comedy. If a [Page] Clown were shewn in a Ladies Gown, or a Sca­ramuchio that provokes laughter, no otherwise then by making a wry face, or gesture, he must strangely participate of vulgar folly, that would call either of these the parts of Comedy, since they work nothing on the affections, no more then a man can be said to laugh properly without mirth, or be sick, and have no disease.

But I need not trouble my Reader with a farther vin­dication of comedy, (though it be some misfortune to our Theaters in being so little happy in it this Age) other then by taking leave to suppose, that it is under­valu'd most by such as do not rightly conceive of its worth, or else despair of writing, what shall merit its esteem or name.

There is another sort of diversion on the Stage, much received of late (I will not question with what prudence) and that is Farce; which, as I have said be­fore, consists of Mimikry and other ridiculous Gestures mingled together, for which it may properly enough bear the denomination, though it is no more of kin to a Play, then a Mule is to a Horse, in having some­what longer ears; or that a Pedlar who hath some things in his Pack, that Drapers and Silkmen furnish their Shops with, should be said to be of these Trades, though he hath none lawfully of his own.

No less doth this French Mode of entertainment on our Theaters, vilifie mirth, and countenance for the most part debauchery, where it is frequent to observe, the waiting womans intrigue is to Pimp for the Ma­dam, and the Valet de Chambre for the Mounsieur he [Page] serves, which performed with some ease in the compass of five Acts, they go to bed likewise for their labour; the rest of the characters have commonly so little to say for themselves, that a man cannot discern a Fan­tastick Fool, or Clown, otherwise then by their Ha­bits or Gestures.

And as Farce cannot be allow'd to be Comedy, in its meanest signification, because it doth not perform the requisites unto it; so I find no reason to call Co­medy low, though consisting of mean characters, if answering the ends already expressed (as is to be seen in not a few of our antient ones) and cannot deserve a more worthy esteem, if by the skill and wit of the Writer, the characters of vulgar men are made worth the observation of the greatest, according to that of Virgil in his Georgicks, speaking on the familiar sub­jects, he there treats of;

Nec sum animi dubius, verbis ea vincere magnum,
Quàm sit, & angustis hunc addere rebus honorem,

Notwithstanding I would not be thought averse from such a choice of persons in Comedy, as are most fit to character the most generous instruction of manners; wherefore if for the greatest number they represent the same dignities in either Sex, the entertainment is more sutable to the Audience, which most considerably doth consist of these; and here I cannot chuse but re­flect on our mean imitation of French Plays, by intro­ducing of servants and waiting women to have parts, [Page] without being essential characters; an error well a­voided by our former writers, who never admitted any, otherwise then as messengers and attendants, ex­cept on the account of being characters, as is to be seen by Numphs in Bartholomew Fair, and Face in the Al­chymist; the latter of which (notwithstanding what can be objected against him) may deservedly be granted one of the best parts on our English Stage.

But perhaps we are not now so destitute of cha­racters, as we are of design and wit to manage them, invention being ready to afford many, and observation some; though here I cannot chuse but censure the unpoetical, and no less offensive license in particular­ly designing the persons of any, an abuse that deserves to be severely resented, since (if permitted) no man can be secured, but that he may give his money to ob­serve his alliance, friend, or himself, made his inju­rious entertainment on a publick Stage; besides, Plays ought more to reflect on manners, then men, as being their moral use, and when they do otherwise, they are Libels rather then Plays, and nauseate the ear of a modest Audience.

Having made these observations on our past and present Stage, I must be so ingenuous with my Reader, as to fear, that the perfection of our former Dramatick Poesie ought more politickly to have been my dispute with others, then that I should have maintain'd its praise, since he is prompted by it, to compare the excellency of their Plays with my defects in this, and for which I have an objection to answer, though, I hope, a weak [Page] one, concerning the character of Tysamnes, whom I find to be charg'd with a breach of promise to Statyra; the matter of fact I confess; but as actions have their degrees of evil, as the circumstances relating thereunto shall render them more or less excusable; so I must say in the behalf of this my character, that the temptation of enjoying of a Crown together with the love of the Scythian Queen, did produce his neglect of Statyra; and whosoever shall consider the prevalency of ambition in Princes, (especially in one without a Crown, which was his case) and how often they forfeit the highest obliga­tions to advance it, will grant I suppose without much difficulty, that there needs small excuse for his character; besides, there was such a reparation on his side, both to his Queen, and her, that though he remov'd the former, partly for her sake, he did not make himself so guilty, as to marry the latter; but by a due sorrow for his ingratitude to both, confirm'd an honourable repu­tation on his character; all which the Reader may ob­serve in the Play: so that it is not meerly the doing of ill, but the persisting in it, that fixes an indelible stain on persons; besides, that no man is of necessity to be presented on the Stage with an evenness of passion, as being neither common, or natural in men, in whom de­fects will have some place with virtue.

This objection (though feeble enough) hath been en­deavoured to be supported by the impertinent cavils of some, who will hardly like any thing, and care as little for what is good; whether this proceeds from their Spleen to the ingenuities of men, or that they hold it a [Page] more noble imployment for their Criticism, I cannot tell; and yet I do not find any other objection made against my Play, though both the design and characters were new as the hour in which it was first seen, being wholly created without having reference to truth other­wise, then possibly consistent with it in the persons I in­troduce, according to Horace;

Ficta voluptatis causa, sint proxima veris.

The misfortune it had in having some of the Parts ill and imperfectly performed, as also the laying down of it, the sixth day of its being presented, when the Audience was very near as considerable, as the first day it was Acted, as also an intermission hitherto occasioned by the long absence of some principal Actresses, could not but prejudice the esteem it gain'd, and might have been im­prov'd in a further time; not that I judge of the validi­ty of Plays, according to the good fortune they have in point of reception, it having been ordinary enough for very mean or ill ones (especially in this Age) to have had the credit of getting money at a small expence of Wit, whilst they have little more reason to glory in the heat of their acceptation, or number of hearers, then the Fly had in the Fable, that sitting upon a Wheel, most ingeniously boasted of the dust that was rais'd by it.

I fear I have trespass'd too much on my Readers pati­ence (though I have not troubl'd him with any other ex­traordinary Dedication) being ready to acknowledge that what I have writ here, seems more a discourse, or Essay on [Page] Dramatick Poesie, then a Preface to a Play; and indeed, I had thoughts of compiling the discussing of that subject with some things of that nature, not but I conceiv'd it might be as usefully given him in this place, where he may more readily observe how far I have made practi­cable the Theory of this kind of writing I most esteem; nor do I undertake to rectifie the judgments of others, farther then theirs shall do mine, where I conceive their reasons to be more prevalent; or would willingly im­ploy so frivolously my Pen, as to entertain a Polemick discourse of Plays, that to the prudent can signifie little more then to controvert which is the best way of per­forming a trifle.

Farewel.

The First Prologue.

Enter Angel and Underhill.
Ang.

MR. Underhill—As I am a man of mirth, I am so overjoyed to day, that I could caper from one end of our Stage to the other.

Und.

I fear, Mr. Angel, you are too jocund before-hand; Wit is grown a ticklish thing of late, and how our Play will take, is some question.

Ang.

Take, why there's no doubt of it's taking,—To which purpose be it known to all here present, that we are to act a Farce to day, that hath six­teen Mimicks in it, several Jack-Puddings, and Punchinellos, never presented before, with two and thirty Dances and Jiggs a-la-mode besides.

Und.

A Farce to day, say you?

Ang.

Yes, & I hope to morrow, and to morrow, and so to the end of our lives.

Und.

Must we still persist then to fool Wit out of countenance, and so bid farewel to good Plays and Comedy for ever?

Ang.

We must, as I take it, until there are Poets that can write them.

Und.

In the mean time, we are like to maintain a despicable Stage.

Ang.

And why so, Sir, ought not that which gets the most money, be held the best Wit? I suppose our Company are much of that opinion.

Und.

However, as I am an Actor, and bound to honour true Mirth and Comedy, I am so far concern'd, that I could wish the Scaramuchos, and Jack-Puddings were sent to their proper Stages, since Plays are now grown so greasie with French Lard, that an Actor do's not know how to handle them.

Ang.

My right reverend Comedian, you are not wise, and thus I demon­strate it—I will play a Farce ten to one against a Comedy, Tragi-comedy, or any Heroick Play whatsoever.

Und.

And be sure it will take?

Ang.

I told you before, that was no question—nay more, I can assure you, that many good Wits of the Town encourage it, who damn all Plays besides.

Und.

Perhaps in compassion to us Actors, or out of contempt to the Writers of this Age, whose Wit they judge cannot reach the elevation of their Brain.

Ang.

No matter whether it be from the Poles above, or the Poles below, I am sure they are better then Pole-stars to us, provided they dispense their in­fluence often here.

Und.

And what shall become of the new Play, intended to have been this day presented?

Ang.

Why, our Actors have soberly resolved, it shall be de­ferr'd to some other time.

Und.

As I hope to act good part again, I am sor­ry for it; but is it certain?

Ang.

There is nothing certain in the world, though 'tis so concluded, unless some unexpected prohibition, or Fate hinder it—but 'tis almost time.

Enter Noakes.

We withdraw in order to our parts and properties—here comes Mr. Noakes ready drest.

Und.

Then I perceive we shall have a Farce to purpose, and 'tis odds, but he personates one beetle-brow'd Fellow or other.

Ang.
[Page]

O Mr. Noaks, you have habited your self very properly.

Noak.

According to my best apprehension, Gentlemen.

Und.

But you should not have entred with your face grim'd, 'twill discover too much of our Farces plot before-hand.

Noak.

There's good design in it, I warrant you.

Und.

But what shall we do for a Prologue?

Noak.

Leave that to me, Sirs, I'le give u'm one a new way.

Ang.

Mark that, Mr. Underhill; and shall we have a novelty in our Prologue, Mr. Noakes?

Noak.

I have devised it purposely, because a new way is generally taking in what kind soever.

Und.

I am much of that opinion, since I have observed that new non-sense is valued more then old Wit.

Noak.

What think you then, if I speak to all the Judges in the Pit by looks and grimasks?

Ang.

A rare and prodigious thought! I have known a device like this, serve well in a Play.

Und.

And hath been thought a good Scene too.

Noak.

And first on you Criticks, I'le leer thus, like a Satyr; for the moderate Wits thus; for ho, ho, ho's, who laugh in such good earnest, when there is no Jest given them, comically thus.

Enter Changling.
Und.

No more of your grimasks, good Mr. Noakes.

Noak.

And why so, Sir?

Und.

Because I have consider'd better, and since 'tis resolv'd, we shall have a Prologue to our Farce, here is one shall give it u'm the Farce way ex­actly.

[To the Changling.]
Ang.

There's nothing better—the very Pudding of our Farce that must fill the Audience up to the throat with laughter.

Noak.

Since you will have it so, you shall find me reasonable; I confess 'tis a pretty toyish modish way.

Und.

And what is most extraordinary, he shall dance out a Prologue.

Ang.

A Prologue to be danced, aha, aha, Boys.

[Angel leaps.]
Noak.

And I make Still-Musick with my mouth the whilst, shall I, Sirs?

Und.

'Tis not amiss; come hither, Changling, and set your feet, and looks in order for the Prologue.

Chang.

Shall it be with my face, feet, and hands, tredoudling thus?

Omnes.

'Tis very innocent and well.

Chang.

Il'e warrant you, I'le tredoudle it so, that it shall take to purpose.

Omnes.

Musick there for the Prologue.

The Musick plays, he dances a while, then is heard a noise wish Thunder and Lightning, at which time Ben. Johnson personated rises from below.
Noak.

Ha, Thunder and Lightning!—I hope the Madam Muses are not displeas'd with us.

Ang.

But what apparition is this moving towards us?

Und.

As I am an Actor, 'tis the Genius of the old Comick Poet Ben. John­son, I know it by his Picture that hangs up in the Strand.

Ang.

Fly, fly, Associates, there's no being on the Stage longer, for us of the Farce party.

[They go off several ways.]

After which Ben. Johnson personated, goes up to the Audience, and speaks a Prologue.

The Second Prologue personated like Ben Johnson rising from below.

BEhold I Ben appear, your Poet once,
That living durst a vengeance here denounce
On all the Stages Crimes, and Judges dare
To make my Wit their sense, or else their fear;
Thus have I left th' Elizium Shades and Groves,
The sacred Mansions of the Muses Loves,
Where I my Bays till now unwither'd saw
In my immortal Plays, that here gave Law.
But now provok'd, the Muses quarrel take,
And from their call thus my appearance make;
Did I instruct you (well ne're half an Age)
To understand the Grandeur of the Stage,
With the exactest Rules of Comedy,
Yet now y'are pleased with Wits low frippery,
Admitting Farce, the trifling mode of France,
T infect you with fantastick ignorance,
Forgetting 'twas your glory to behold,
Plays wisely form'd, such as I made of old;
But by my Bays I swear, if you persist,
And my Judicious Cautions hence resist,
I'le next rise with the Furies from below,
That scourge vile Poets there with Scorpions too,
And with those circl'd, hiss at you, and them,
Except the Scenes just Grandeur you redeem;
Thus for your Crimes, but what this day will be,
The fate and merit of the Play you'l see;
I scarce divine, nor did its Author raise
Me by a Poets charm to give him praise.
I never had an Ear was sooth'd by Rhime,
Or flatter'd to protect a Writers crime.
And might this Authors modesty offend,
Should my Encomium here his Play commend;
Who now prevents it, whilest methinks I hear
A whisper of his doubtings in my ear;
His fears are many, there's such Fate in Wit,
That Plays from fortune more then merit hit,
Whose Muse would blush for such a guilty chance,
Since 'twere the bounty of your ignorance.
But though your crimes in judgment he forbears,
Take heed, how Ben provok'd, once more appears.

Third Prologue.

YOU see what little Arts w'are fain to try,
To give a Prologue some variety;
Wit you have had, perhaps, in many new,
Though Farce, and Dance, (your much lov'd mirth) in few.
But why Great Johnson's Ghost should thus appear,
As if to hector Wits, and Criticks here,
Who (if the Devil were Poet) would not fear?
'Twas a bold Fiction, and so let it go,
Yet thus far 'tis instructive unto you;
That should you recollect your Judging Crimes,
The Ribaldry of Plays in Prose, and Rhimes,
Johnson might rise indeed, and own it true.
His Plays were Laws to Wit, and Plot well told,
But such you slight, (though wise) because th'are old;
And well it is for Writers, since that way
You might expect from all who write a Play.
True Comedy, the moral Mirth of Plays,
Lives now the glory of dead Poets Bays,
And like the Phoenix (though confess'd to be)
Produces few of her Posterity.
So rare a piece, our Poet dares not say
You now shall see, but as weak Pencils may
From Titian, or Vandike example take,
And in their figures small resemblance make.
So 'twas the business of our Authors Pen,
To paint some life of Comedy agen,
And like to such as would, but cannot Feast,
Does wish your entertainment were the Best.

The Persons Names.

Tysamnes A Persian Prince Marry'd to the Queen of Scythia.
Mr. Harris.
Bassanes A General, and Prince of the Blood of Scythia.
Mr. Young.
Foscaris A Gentleman of Quality, who longs for his Wife after he has parted with her.
Mr. Smith.
Andrages Another Husband, who loves his Wife so well that he cannot part with her, though she seems to provoke him to it.
Mr. Crosby.
Toxaris Courtier to Parisatis Queen of Scythia.
Mr. Standford.
Alvanes Courtier to Parisatis Queen of Scythia.
Mr. Cademan.
Araxis Courtier to Parisatis Queen of Scythia.
Mr. Norris.
Draxanes Friend to Bassanes.
Mr. Adams.
Eumenes Friend to Bassanes.
Mr. Westwood.
Two Courtiers.
Parisatis Queen of Scythia.
Mrs. Betterton.
Mandana A Queen of the Amazons.
Mrs. Long.
Statyra A great Persian Lady formerly belov'd by Tysamnes.
Mrs. Johnson.
Clarina Wife to Foscaris.
Mrs. Shadwell.
Melvissa Wife to Andrages.
Mrs. Dixon.
Four Court Ladies.
 
Daranthe Chief Commandress of the Amazons.
Mrs. Lee.
Cydane Embassadress from the Queen Man­dana.
Mrs. Lilborne.
Renone Embassadress from the Queen Man­dana.
Mrs. Wright.
Masquers.
 
Attendants.
 
Guards.
 

The Scene Scythia.

THE Womens Conquest. A TRAGI-COMEDY.
ACT I. SCENE I.

Enter Toxaris, Alvanes, and Araxis.
Tox.
WEll Mortals, if any live happy,
'Tis we Scythians at this day.
Arax.
And prethee why?
Tox.
Are not we Men?
Arax.
Yes, and Courtiers.
Tox.
And what's more, have our Amours unquestion'd
By those meager sort of Females, Wives, whose entails
We can cut off at pleasure, sometimes held necessary
In case of Age, or accidental Ugliness;
Is this no Felicity?
Alva.
A sign we had our Predecessors men.
Tox.
I, and such Souls of Matrimony, that
Would be all in all in every Act and
Concern of Woman; changing Wives at pleasure,
Sometimes, as oft as Menial Servants▪ how would
The Wary Spaniard, the more Jealous Italian
Glory, had they like priviledge?
Alv.
And yet,
[Page 2] Methinks, this custom of our Nation
In so absolute a dominion over
That weaker sex, is not a little rigid.
Tox.
Prethee marry then, and if thou dost not
Find it necessary; thou'lt be more easie
Yok'd then most in Scythia.
Alv.
But our Queens marriage
Is my wonder, with this Persian Prince
Tysamnes.
Arax.
She is wise in all her Actions.
Alva.
Yet not by any priviledge exempted
From this our Nations Law, though a Queen;
'Twere well, she had made it first, some Act of State.
Arax.
At least to exempt her self: Princes are
But men, sometimes most various.
Tox.
It speaks her
Confidence in her new made Husband.
Arax.
Or rather the strength of her own vertue,
That dares trust her merit to embarque
In any storm, should it arise from what
('Twere sin to think) Ingratitude.
Alv.
May they live great and prosp'rous.
Arax.
Tysamnes is a Prince endu'd with many Graces,
Fam'd equal with the best Captains of our Times,
In noble deeds of War; and though but younger
Brother of the Persian Crown, against
Natures act, deserves the first place in that Throne.
Enter Foscaris.
Alva.
Here comes Foscaris, a Gentleman, that has
Newly parted with his Wife, a fair one too.
Arax.
But that's a change in this part of Scythia,
Few repent, where Women like to flowers,
Are often plac'd in bosoms, but till Love
Fades their sweetness—what Foscaris!
Fosc.
The merry'st man 'twixt this and Babylon, Gentlemen.
Tox.
You have parted with your Wife.
Fosc.
[Page 3]
And a fair riddance too; though as Women
Go now, I think she was vertuous.
Alva.
Dost thou not therefore feel some regret
For rejecting from thy embrace, so deserving a
Lady?
Fosc.
No more then a child for throwing away
A toy, when weary of the pastime.
Alas, I have lain by her a whole Moon,
Enjoy'd all her nights, and days varieties:
Pass'd the beginning, the middle, and even
The bottom of all can be call'd fruition;
Which I confess was most delicious;
But the heavy thought that this must prove
In the end, but dull repetition,
Did so cloy my appetite.
Tox.
Perhaps before it had taken a just fill.
Alv.
I confess, had I espous'd such a Lady
I should have been content to have serv'd Love
Two Apprentiships at least—But oh the wonders
Of Matrimony! how soon has mankind
Enough of the honey of Wedlock.
Fosc.
Nay, I dare commend her Graces, besides
I think she lov'd me; and for her person
Pigmalions Image might have been copy'd
From her lineaments. A Face in ev'ry feature
Pleasing: such an Eye! such a Lip! with a Cheek
Jove ne're was fam'd a smoother to impress;
With something yet, then all, more taking.
Arax.
And hadst thou not better have kept this delicate
Food of Love, though thou hadst chang'd sometimes
A meal; rather then thus utterly to forsake her?
Fosc.
Alas! I had my Surfeit, Gentlemen, and was
So Wife-sick; she seem'd to me Loves potion.
Tox.
For my part, were I in thy case, and had
A Face of Brass, I should go near to blush through't.
Here comes the Lady—
[Page 4]
Enter Clarina.
Clar.
To be thus thrown from him without a cause,
Or act of ill laid to my charge: on priviledge
Of this our Countries Ignominious usage;
And by a man I lov'd so well?
Vile, and inhumane custom!
Tox.
I hope her vertues, and thy crime will move thee
To repentance: thou art else such a
Tyrant-husband, as has no like, even
In this hard-hearted Clime of ours.
Fosc.
Rather indulgent, that gave her means of
Freedom: I open'd but the Cage, and
Now Love may flye, as it lists.
Clar.
By my example—
Let none be henceforth made a Bride in Scythia;
Where sacred Tyes, and chastest Love
Is no security.
Tox.
Though I am a true Scythian and partly
Of thy humour, I could wish thee, (for this act,)
Some fatal penitence.
Fosc.
Ha, ha, ha,—Is that
Possible in a man of my complexion?
Clar.
He scarce vouchsafes a look on me; when but
So late, each beam of mine was more
Considerable then warmth of Sun-shine.
Alv.
We must now leave you to your better thoughts:
The General Bassanes is arriv'd the Court.
Our attendance is expected—pity
Clarina has no kinder Husband.
[Exeunt Alv. Tox. Araxis.
Fosc.
I'le wait on you Gentlemen: I serv'd
But lately under his command—
Clar.
You have no pity left for me?—
[Offers to go out, Clar. stays him.
Fosc.
A little somewhat; but thou seest I am now
In haste.
Clar.
I'le be as brief; take me to thy embrace,
My dear Foscaris: thou know'st I lov'd thee
[Page 5] Vertuously and truly well: if I have done
Amiss in any act unknown; I'le bend
My knees for pardon.
Fosc.
Alas! I charge thee
With no crime; but Marriage is such a mischief,
It makes Friends sometimes differ, they know not why;
For which I thank my Countries dispensation:
Otherwise as a Mistress, I think no Lady
In our Court deserves before thee.
Clar.
When e're you wed (as soon perhaps you may)
May you espouse one far more beautiful
And equal to my affection—so farewel—
Fosc.
Adieu—adieu: I'le not kiss her at parting,
Lest I lick my self into Love again;
And yet methinks I could almost be content:
'Tis a pretty black-ey'd rogue, and was so
Amorous and Airy.—Heaven forbid
I be not once more smitten, and so proceed
To a second Wooing; but I hope I am arm'd—
[Ex. Foscaris.
Enter Melvissa.
Clar.
This unkindness grieves me.
Melv.
What! sad Clarina?
Clar.
I had ne're more cause, Madam—my Husband.—
Melv.
What of him? I dream't that he courted thee
With more firé then ever; and my dreams I
Can tell thee, hit unhappily sometimes.
Clar.
He is most unkind; a Husband of our cruel mode
Perfectly, who having gather'd but so late
My Virgin flower, has thrown me from his breast,
As if already faded—and yet I needs must say,
I love him still.
Melv.
Thence came thy mischief;
The very spring of all thy Tears: we Wives
Must use more dexterity in managing
Of Husbands here; and that way, if possible,
Get some hand on their Affections: nor should [Page 6] They bed with us; but when we please,
Or when our healths require it: the soft and gentle
Not seldom most slighted: The truth is, Marriage
Amongst us is a most dang'rous food of Love:
And therefore we must use more wit for sawce,
Our men will be else so cloy'd, and cast us off
With no more concern, then we give a dish
Of meat after having well fed on't, to our Waiters.
Clar.
But I was so tender,
In giving cause of separation—
Melv.
'Thad fixt him surer to thee; nor is it hopeless,
But the sense of thy Vertues and Beauty
May work in him some thoughts of reconcilement:
There have been (though rarely) such examples.
Clar.
Might I but live to be so happy!—
Melv.
Besides I have a means, if all fail
To do thee service—thou dar'st confide in me?—
Clar.
With all assurance.
Melv.
You must be secret.
Clar.
As a thought within your breast.
Melv.
And mark me; if thou find'st this work him up
To love again—
Clar.
I doubt the end will prove impossible.
Melv.
That's as the means are order'd: Love will find out
Ways sometimes as extraordinary; which made
A famous Poet write a Book of Lovers Arts,
Not much inferiour to Medea's Charms:—
And be sure when you see him next, let it
Seem against thy will, as if thoud'st stand
If possible, at like distance from him;
As the sphere of fixed Stars: adding convenient
Pride and scorn, no small artifice in our sex.
Clar.
Your Copies somewhat hard
To be practis'd by a Lover.
Melv.
'Tis but a just revenge in thy Case.
Clar.
I shall observe your fair instructions.
[Page 7]
Enter Andrages.
Melv.
See, here's my man of Venus; an example
Of my skill and conduct—observe him well,
And thou shalt see, I have an humble servant
Instead of Lord and Master—is't not so, Andrages?
Andra.
Your will's a Law, Madam.
Melv.
In spight of our Nations custom, is it not?
Andra.
The same, Madam.
Clar.
This is a language, I have
Not heard before from a Scythian Husband.
Melv.
And yet, I'le say thus much, for this thing
Of my embrace: he dares vye with the best
Of our Gallants; and cope with Mars himself
If met in field; nor less would be concern'd
For every frown of mine, with any he
That durst despise e'm: Am I not right, Andrages?
Andra.
My life's at your command.
Clar.
You have a power I see indeed, and doubt not but you'l use it nobly.
Melv.
We must rule thus, or we are lost here:
What's a Venus that cannot lead her Mars
In triumph?—Andrages, perhaps I'le sleep
With thee to night for this—
Andra.
You'l be most welcom Madam.
Clar.
This day some considerable of our Sex
Join in a Petition to our Queen and
New made King.
Melv.
'Tis to abrogate their abuse,
In the arbitrary rule of men.
Clar.
I hope 'twill prove a seasonable request,
Since now the Queen has made her self a party;
In taking of a Princely Husband.
Melv.
Thou hast eloquence, and shalt be one of
Our fair Speakers in this Cause.
Clar.
You complement me Madam,
Though I am oblig'd to serve the interest.
Melv.
[Page 8]
We must appear with the fair number
Who expect us to confer—Andrages
Wait my coming home about the hour of nine.
[Ex. Melv. and Clarina.
Andra.
With all observance, Madam—
Was ever Gentleman and Souldier thus hen-peck'd
As I am? nay, against the priviledge of mankind
Here, endure it? that can discharge a Wife
With a breath: sure there's some extraordinary
Magick in't; and I find by my inclinations,
I am so unfortunate to love her at that rate,
As I cannot rid my self of her, though I
Suffer to death, or what's worse, the miseries
Of a vexatious wedlock.
Enter Foscaris.
Fosc.
What Andrages? heavy and drooping!
Andr.
Somewhat out of Tune.
Fosc.
Nay, then 'tis odds, but thou
Art smitten, or at least ruminating
On some new beauty.
Andr.
Would that were the worst.
Fosc.
The very best of our Banes, that have prov'd
Wedlock—Come I'le sing thee a catch I have
Made on this subject.
He Sings.
What though her Eyes are black,
And kisses with a knack,
Natures best skill e're created?
In time she may prove
A surfeit to Love;
And so deserve to be hated.
2.
Love freed from this diet
Is best kept at quiet,
[Page 9] The wanton still longs for to range;
Let's thank then our Laws
In Wedlocks frail cause,
Gave Husbands a License to change.
Andr.
This is all discord to my malady.
Fosc.
I took thee to have been longing after
New flesh and blood, or rather sick of thy wife,
Is not that it?
Andr.
Thou dost not mock me?
Fosc.
No, o' my life!
Andr.
Why then I'le tell thee,
I love her a thousand times better, then
When I long'd for her first enjoyment.
Fosc.
Is that possible in a man of thy Genius?
Andr.
Let me be punished else.
Fosc.
Alas! poor Souldier of Cupid:
I have parted with a Wise fair enough
To have figur'd Venus by, and for that only cause,
Because a Wife: I'd fain see the power of Man,
Or Angel, bring me again to the like dotage.
Andr.
Nay more, should she scratch me once a day,
Or use me with that Amazonian confidence
Practis'd in our neighbouring Scythia, where
Her Sex has the supremacy, and are
So many she Tyrants: I think I should
Endure it, and love her: If this be not Magick,
There's none betwixt us and the North Pole.
Fosc.
Visit her bed often; and if that does not do it,
There's no surfeit in Wedlock.
Andr.
Alas! I have not leave to come there, but rarely,
And on such terms of good behaviour,
That I am almost in an Ague the while.
Fosc.
The very name of Humourist, methinks
Should bid thee quit her, there's scarce a worse evil.
Or if she be modish, and a wit, 'tis odds,
But she makes it her luxury to abuse thee,
And bite thee at every turn of thy tongue. [Page 10] If not, make any thing thy quarrel, to bid
Adieu to her, thou'lt else shame thy Countries priviledge.
Andr.
But I am such a Dotard—
Fosc.
And yet i'th' Camp
And Court, well knowing, as most of our
Time; I pity thee—
Enter Bassanes, Alvanes, Toxaris, Eumenes, and Draxanes.
Andr.
See the General Bassanes.
Fosc.
A Prince of high renown and vertue;
Now return'd from ending our Tartarian War:
We'll pay him our respects at time of fitter
Opportunity—
[Ex. Foscaris and Andrages.
Alv.
The Queen by us, my Lord,
That have the honour to fore-speak her joys,
Congratulates your Excellencies return.
Bass.
She is a gracious Lady; and though but late
Made my Intelligence, has taken
The Persian Prince, Tysamnes, for her Husband.
Alv.
A Prince that Court does loudly fame, surpassing
All the race of the Arsacides, whence he derives
His blood.
Bass.
Her vertue is a mate for his;
Let it be great as e're did live upon the name
Of mortal; but I that have a Souldiers plainness
A little wonder, although her King I hold
Of highest merit: since there is no act precedes
To exempt her Royal Person, from that fate
Of Marriage, the force of custom here
May even inflict upon the greatest.
Tox.
It seem'd below her Soul and Love, to make
That caution, some wise amongst us wish.
Bass.
Tysamnes! marry'd to the Queen! if I
[Aside.
Forget not I had Advertisement upon his first
Arrival at her Court, and from a Persian hand
Of trust, that he there lov'd a Lady; nay more,
Was thought to have assur'd himself to her.
Eum.
The General's a little discompos'd.
Drax.
Perhaps some discontent relating to the [Page 11] Queens marriage.
Bass.
If this prove true, Heaven too soon may frown
On all these joys—what are these Ladies?
Enter Melvissa, Clarina, and four other Ladies, each with a Paper in her hands.
Tox.
They are come to wait upon the King and Queen.
This day of State, on some concern of their Sex.
Bass.
Tis well.
Enter Araxis.
Arax.
The King and Queen are ready to come forth.
Alv.
We must attend—your Lordships pardon.
Bass.
I have some orders to dispatch unto
The Camp, and then I'le wait their Majesties—
[Exit Bassanes, &c. Tox. Alv. Arax. another way, manent Mel. Clar. and four Ladies.
Melv.
It behoves us now Ladies, to weigh the force,
And effect of those Arguments we have prepar'd
To assail so formidable an enemy, as Men and Husbands, fortify'd
With that so invincible Champion, Custom;
I hope you are all well provided?
1 Lady.
Doubt it not Madam, women seldom want wit
To serve their desires and occasions.
Melv.
Well said pretty one, young and forward,
And for Illustrations and Metaphors, of
This hainous usage and tyranny of our Matrimonial
Lords and Masters, such were to be wish'd,
Are most pathetical and perswasive.—
1 Lady.
I have taken mine, Madam, from
The example of Socrates, that most grave
Philosopher, who not only endur'd the ill
Humour, but the supremacy of his Wife,
As worthy of imitation.
Melv.
A famous president!
2 Lady.
And I mine, Ladies, from that most dreadful
Story of Andromeda, chain'd to a Rock;
[Page 14] Is it not so, my dear Tysamnes?
Tysam.
Thou art above my wishes excellent.
Arax.
The Queen exprest her self most nobly.
Tox.
If not too confiding in her choice.
Clar.
We must submit.
1 Lady.
Since there's no remedy.
Melv.
I'le serve thee yet Clarina! it shall go hard else.
Enter Bassanes, Eumenes, and Draxanes.
Par.
Welcom, as I can express Bassanes
Thy Victories were early here on Rumors wing,
Which made the grim-look'd Tartars beg a peace
From us: and next my joys of love, completed here,
[To Tys.
I must rejoyce thy safe return, thou pillar
Of thy Country, and glory of my Crown,
To call thee both my Subject, and Alliance.
Bass.
My duty is best paid in the performance
Of your services, which I shall ever study.
Tysam.
Let me embrace thee worthy man;
The title which I have to thy brave merit,
In my enjoyment of this beauteous Queen,
Obliges me to hold thy vertues dear
That bring'st me Triumph home, before I scarce
Have warm'd this Throne.
Arax.
Our new King does caress him highly.
Tox.
His interest is great.
Par.
I understand
You saw Mandana's Court, our neighbour
Queen, on your return?
Bass.
I did Madam.
Par.
There Women govern all.
Bass.
To wonder, Madam—
Make War, lead Armies, with all transactions
Of the highest Magnitude in State,
To whom the men are held subordinate.
Par.
Their Queen's a Lady, Fame reports Wise,
Magnanimous, and no less Beautiful.
Bass.
[Page 15]
I think all these may well be said to meet
In her.
Par.
But the manner of her rule seems strange
To me.
Bass.
If compar'd with ours here; but they
Lay claim to that prerogative, from the
Antient Amazons whence they derive descent.
Par.
'Twas said Mandana did intend an Embassy
Unto our Court in some short time.
Bass.
She gave me so to understand.
Tysam.
A beauteous one no doubt.
Bass.
They are Women, Sir.
Tysam.
We'll treat'm then as fairly.
Par.
But credit me, I should not like my reign
So well, were my Sex here alike in power;
Since nature and the worlds best Laws
Have dignify'd the man superiour.
Tysam.
Spoke like my Parisatis—methinks we
Are not chearful; I have joys enough to raise
A man above the world, had he made forfeit
Of his bliss—You told me of a masque,
My Soul does want a little clearing up—
[Aside.
Par.
I did appoint one.
Tysam.
By any means we'll have it.
Musick plays a while, after which the Masque begins; the Scene a Grove, in which Diana is beheld sleeping, having at one of the sides next the Stage a Rock, from which—
Enters Arethusa habited like a Water-Nymph.
Areth.
Eccho! if thou dost visit this fair Grove,
Where thou hast often mourn'd Narcissus love;
At Arethusa's call appear.
Eccho.
Appear.
Areth.
Once more 'tis Arethusa calls thee here.
Eccho within.
Here!
Areth.
That's but thy voice, thy person I would see,
Once known a Nymph of highest dignity.
[Page 16]
Enter Eccho as out of t'other side of the Grove.
Eccho.
Behold bright Arethusa I resume
My long lost Figure, since Heavens fatal doom
Depriv'd me of my dear Narcissus flames.
Areth.
I bear as great a grief confin'd to streams,
Could never yet with lov'd Alpheus join;
Think if thy loss can greater be then mine?
Eccho.
Fair Nymph, with yours I'le not compare my woe,
Since with thy tears thy chrystal fountains flow;
And by a wondrous constancy do glide
Through veins of earth unmixt with other tide,
Which Thetis for thy glory did decree,
And great Diana Honours Constancy.
Areth.
I wait to see her bathe in my cool floods,
Having a long chase follow'd in these Woods.
Eccho.
She in this Grove with her fair Nymphs does sleep,
While with my wakeful voice her watch I keep;
Lest Mortals here (Actaeon like) should pry,
And ravish blushes from her Deity.—
Behold she wakes.
[She wakes.

The Song in the Masque.

1 Nym.
See, see, our Goddess wakes,
Whilst we harmonious notes prepare,
Such as bright Phoebus makes,
When to salute Aurora's car,
The Musick of his sphere he takes.
Diana rises and enters with her Nymphs.
2 Nym.
Or as before her Curtains drawn
We welcom in the grey-ey'd dawn,
When for the Chase
Diana bends her matchless bow,
And gives her self the first hollow.
1 Nym.
Then through Plains, Lawns, and Woods
Over Mountains and Floods
Nymphs tripit, Nymphs trip it apa [...]e.
2 Nym.
[Page 17]
Whilst the Hart, Deer, or Roe
They swiftly pursue,
Their Goddess best pleaseth to chase.
1 Nym.
See she appears
More bright then Hesperus does rise,
Whose beams Stars borrow for their eyes.
Dian.
Belov'd of Nymphs whose chaste and constant stream,
Shall give thy Love an everlasting name;
More dear to me then Zanthus floods so bright,
Or my own Cynthia's beams that guild the night;
Art thou to tread a Chorus come with me,
As once a Nymph of my society?
Areth.
Bless'd Goddess know from Thetis I am sent
To wait thee first with her great Complement;
Who, if not too much Neptunes Billows rave,
Will soon pass hither in a Chrystal wave.
Dian.
She shall be welcom. But first Nymph on thee
Diana, (to renown thy constancy)
Does from her hand this pretious gift bestow,
Sprung from the tree, whence grew her sacred bow;
On which with finest silk my Nymphs have wove,
The wondrous story of thy streams and love.
[Puts on a Chaplet.
Areth.
This grace lov'd Goddess, I must ever own,
While Arethusa by that name is known;
But if I may thy Deity intreat,
I'd gladly yet with my Alpheus meet.
Dian.
Thrice beauteous Nymph, thou su'st I fear in vain,
But for thy merit if I can obtain,
Or Cynthia's aid can help, she shall convey
His gentle current where thy stream has way.
Enter Thetis attended with several Sea-Nymphs.
Omnes.
For which let's all Diana's praises sing.
Dian.
[Page 18]
Stay Nymphs, here comes the Queen to Seas great King.
Thet.
Chast Goddess, I am come to let thee know,
What to thy Graces, Neptunes Queen does owe
; And for this Nymph the honour of all floods,
As these with thee make sacred groves and woods.
For which to speak my thanks I'd gladly tread
The stately Chorus, thy bright self does lead.
Dian.
Great Thetis know, no footsteps ever joyn'd
With me a Chorus, but bear souls refin'd;
For which I have deny'd some gods of late,
Said to have fell from their celestial state.
Thet.
I once gave ear unto such tales like thee,
But prov'd it soon my vain credulity;
Nor on my waves did then rough Boreas blow,
But I my Nymphs hid in deep Cells below.
Since fame had told his strong arms did embrace
The fair Orithia snatch't o're Seas to Thrace.
Dian.
Nor was it Thetis truth, Achilles came
From great Peleus, and thy own soft flame.
Thet.
Such stories may relate as much of thee,
Which tell the Moons sublime Divinity;
Though thy chast brows her Heavenly figure wear,
Did for Endymions love forsake her sphear:
While such like Tales the guilty Poets sing,
To feign their Hero's from the Gods did spring.
Dian.
Queen of the Seas my censure was too free,
'Twere sin to doubt truth in a Deity:
Nor will I think that Goddess e're did burn,
In such frail humane flames my chast thoughts mourn:
But now behold with me this mortal Throne,
Merits from our immortal powers renown.
Thet.
I do embrace the motion, since here's seen
A Throne as bright as each of us sate Queen;
May Love there find, serenest calms their days,
Such as my Halcyons chuse that breed on Seas.
Areth.
Or as my streams no mingl'd currents own,
So let their Loves be undivided known.
Eccho.
May Cupid else for ever loose his Bow.
Omn.
[Page 19]
And for Loves Goddess none his Mother know.
Thet.
To honour whom, thy best known Chorus lead,
And with the Oceans race like steps I'le tread.
Dan.
Then Nymphs express with mine your measures powers,
As when we dance on tender grass and flowers:
Leaving no signs our nimble footsteps show,
Or as on Mountains tops, we tread on snow.
[They Dance.
Enter Cupid.
Thet.
Cupid, art thou come hither?
Cup.
I flew this way
To meet my Mother, is she amongst ye pray?
Dian.
Away, thou amorous toy, dar'st thou be here,
Where I to honour constant Love appear?
Cup.
I have a shaft here left within a Heart
I'd fain withdraw.
Dian.
No more vile Boy, depart,
Thy Mothers Arts and thine, I too well know.
Cup.
Then see I flye with an unbended Bow.—
[Ex. Cupid.
Dian.
Thetis farewel! I'le to my Woods resort.
Thet.
But e're I hence return to Neptunes Court,
Let's yet more honour Arethusa's name.
Dian.
This night I bathe my self in her clear stream.
Thet.
Where I'le attend thee with my watry race,
And Nymphs, whose Songs shall there thy Chorus grace.
Areth.
For which my fountains clearest springs shall flow.
Eccho.
And my best Eccho's voice pay duty too.
Dian.
Till when farewel Seas Queen.
Thet.
Goddess adieu.
[Exeunt Masques.
Tysam.
It seems a Moral.
Par.
And meant of constancy, I gave the Argument my self.
Tysam.
Most fit To entertain thy Vertue. What sight is that?
Enter. Statyra.
Tox.
The King seems troubl'd.
Bass.
[Page 20]
My heart misgives me this is she.
Par.
How does my Love?
Tysam.
Your leave a while—Can'st thou forgive me fair Statyra?
[Goes aside, to Statyra.
Stat.
And wish you happy in your royal choice,
She is a Princess far above my merit:
Enough that I have seen your face and dye.
Tysam.
Thou had'st my promise first, Heaven is my witness,
And give me but thy leave to expiate
My crime, in due expression of my penitence,
By some act unthought of; if possible,
To win thy Loves forgiveness.
Stat.
'Tis needless—
Your leave that I return, I'le not ask
So much as a farewel kiss—
Tysam.
I must oblige a while thy stay: Bassanes,
Wait this Lady to my Garden lodgings
With all observance—
Bass.
I shall Sir—
[Ex. Bassanes and Statyra.
Tysam.
The ambition to possess a Crown has had too much
The better of my Conscience—
Come Parisatis.
[Goes to Paris.
Par.
Your looks seem troubl'd.
Tysam.
A trivial thought I'm moving from my heart.
Par.
From mine, I'm sure, your love shall never part.
[Exeunt Omnes.

ACT II. SCENE I.

Enter Eumenes and Draxanes.
Eumen.
IT seems the Ladies had but small success
In their Petition.
Drax.
And yet they urg'd things
Home and unhappily.
Eumen.
Women ne're want zeal, feldom wit
To perfect their desires; but men have here
So long had the Lee-ward point of love, as
They must be content with the Weather Gage;
Which casts not a few on the rocks of Wedlock.
Drax.
For my part I could wish, that Nature had
Taken some other way for the procreation
Of mankind; since both Sexes have so much ado
To agree of the means—But we are Souldiers.
Eum.
And therefore have the less reason to blame
Our Countries freedom, since 'tis odds, but we
Take as much, if we make a true Muster
Of our Mistresses.
Drax.
But the Queens opposing
This desire seem'd to many unexpected.
Eum.
'Twas to oblige the King no doubt; and by
The prerogative of her vertues, live
Above the Law, or whatsoe're could give a fate
To her enjoyment.
Drax.
He's now more absolute
Then e're was Soveraign that reign'd
But in the right of Queen. His Creatures
Dignify'd in Court and Camp; that almost
'Tis within his Will to rule alone, should
He be guilty of that vile ambition.
Eum.
She has exprest in every act a kindness
[Page 22] Most unparallel'd.
Drax.
I wish their Loves a peaceful happiness.
Eum.
'T was hop'd she might have respected our
General Bassanes in her choice, a Prince
Of Scythia's Royal blood, and favour'd
In this Nation with an interest equal
To his birth.
Drax.
But he it seems, as much in love
With Mars, or paying duties to her service
In the field, ne're rais'd his thoughts and merit
To that fair ambition.
Eum.
We are his Creatures,
And have serv'd his dangers.
Enter Toxaris, Alvanes, and Araxis.
Tox.
Save ye Gentlemen;
Your general thanks to his vertues, has given
Our Crown at once both peace, and victory.
Drax.
His conduct did deserve no less.
Alv.
Had his return been sooner, perhaps 'thad
Given some stay to the Queens Marriage—
But that's between our selves.
Eum.
The news surpriz'd him,
We must witness; as one was scarce consulted
In that action.
Alv.
She was a little hasty in her choice.
Arax.
Though in her King, she seems to summe such joys
As if she'd vye with Angels, as she shines,
Espous'd on earth to his affection.
Tox.
Nor does the face o'th Court, sometimes the glass
Of Princes, discover ought save joys, and smiles,
A sign to us Courtiers, the Throne's no less serene.
Eum.
But in the midst of these methought the King
Appear'd disturb'd at the presence of a
Stranger Lady.
Arax.
But that soon vanish'd.
Eum.
Time will discover more.
Alv.
[Page 23]
This day, Mandana's
Embassy is expected; 'tis said, they are Women.
Arax.
Perhaps to complement our Queens Marriage;
Or make some league betwixt their Amazonian
State and us.
Eum.
But say they should provoke us
To a War; we must bring strange arms into
The Field to have the better of this Generation,
That dare fight with men.
Drax.
I could methinks ee'n wish a War,
To see how these she Militants would
Behave themselves; a home-charge with such Troops,
Were winning of a field indeed Gentlemen.
Enter Bassanes and Statyra.
Eum.
Here comes the General and that Lady I spake of.
Arax.
She's wondrous fair.
Alv.
May her beams give no dazle
To our Kings affection; methought she mov'd
Him strangely.
Tox.
Our way lies this way to the Court—
[Ex. Tax. Alv. Arax.
Drax.
And our's here—
[Ex. Drax. and Eumen.
Bass.
Madam, you highly honour me
In this discovery, from which I find
Your name and birth illustrious, as Persia knows.
Stat.
The acquaintance, Sir, I was oblig'd to make you,
Since here my stay upon the Kings command,
Might else have stain'd the honour of my blood
With such a character as curious eyes in Courts
Are but too apt to give the least of favours
That a Prince Vouchsafes a Lady.
Bass.
You are wise
And noble: and give me your fair leave
To ask a question, my intelligence
Assur'd me most undoubted.
Stat.
If it be truth
My Soul dares not deny it.
Bass.
[Page 24]
Then thus most noble Lady;
Did not the King once love you?
Stat.
I did not think
Heaven had reveal'd what I had thought a secret—
[Aside.
To his heart and mine—suppose he did, and yet
I blush to charge him with a guilty truth.
Bass.
It was my apprehension—
Stat.
And since 'tis made your knowledge, I must further say
My wrongs are fit to be convey'd as far
As the world has bounds, or fame can stretch
Her wings to bear e'm.
Bàss.
I fear too sadly—
[Aside.
But should you own this claim to his affection now.
Stat.
My love's a truth too dear to smother, nor
Did I come, but arm'd with resolutions
Worthy of my Soul. And 'tis my highest service
To his Queen (whose vertues I much honour)
If I reveal to her my claim, and thence
Mark out her dangers in this man of falshood
She enjoys.
Bass.
I know you would not charge
Him with this crime, on purpose to create
Repentance; or if you did, who knows
What were your dangers (I speak it not to
Fright you Madam) that here must look like some
Prodigious Star on a great King, made now
So fully happy in the bed and glories of a Queen—
Which how he will resent—
Stat.
Let it be death, 'tis welcom from him.
Bass.
Heaven avert it, Madam; yet 'tis not safe
To tempt a passion past recall, though I
Want not a pity to your vertue.
Stat.
I thank your goodness.
Bass.
Or say you could attract his past affection
; And in each beam of yours, more deeply wound
His heart then ever (as you have all things
Summ'd at Natures dearest cost, that can
Inrich a Beauty) were it not glory
[Page 25] To recede from such a Conquest.
Stat.
Your Counsel's noble I confess.
Bass.
Besides we have a custom here that does
Impower each common man to loose the very
Gordian knot of love in marriage,
That other Countries hold inviolate:
What may then a King do to enjoy
So bright a Mistress as your self?
Stat.
I find the World in this degenerate
Faithless age of man has yet one
Worthy left:
[Aside.
Know then, most noble Prince, your Counsel does
Conspire with the honour of Statyra's heart;
And though I had a more superiour title
To the Kings affection then the Queen can claim
Though made his Consort; yet I for her sake now
Forgive his breach of Faith; nay more, if 'twere
Requir'd, would freely give my life, to see
Their Loves most happy.
Bass.
Give me the honour
Of your hand, to pay my humble adoration
Of this vertue.
Stat.
My stay shall not be longer here
Then taking leave, becomes me of the King.
Bass.
'Twill speak your worth.
Enter Tysamnes.
The King—your pardon Madam—
[Ex. Bassanes.
Tysam.
Statyra! how dost thou like thy welcom
In our Court?
Stat.
As more then I intended to receive.
Tysam.
Thou can'st not soon be weary
Of these shades, and pleasant walks, where
Nightingales will meet, and sing
New ravishments to entertain thy beauties:
More glad to welcom thy appearance, then
The morning joys, or evenings splendor that
Invites their rest. I think thou might'st be well
[Page 26] Content to live here still.
Stat.
My honour is no child
To be deluded with such toys, though gay
As Paradise when first it's sweetness bloom'd,
While but a thought of crime does ripen near me.
Tysam.
Thou shal't be here as innocent as flowers
That yield their smiles unto the distant Sun.
You'l grant me sure, so much, Statyra?
Stat.
I'le rather welcom death then yield to stay
A minute longer near your person.
Tysam.
I know thou art not so unkind.
Stat.
Alas I came without design of love,
Though once your lover.
Tysam.
Statyra! hold, go not
Too far in goodness, lest Heaven (to surprise
My wonder) take thee hence, and place thee there
A Star, or make me fall I know not whither.
Stat.
I have done Sir—nor shall my presence give you
More concern; or further accent repetition
Of your sin to Heaven and me; that in despight
Of all the darts of Love (so late my wound)
Can with this smiling ease and calm of soul
Bid you farewel for ever.—
[She offers to go, the King stays her.
Tysam.
You must not,
Shall not leave me thus—
Stat.
You will not, Sir, detain me
Here by force?—what will your Court then whisper,
Or the bolder world convey to both our infamies?
Enter Parisatis.
I hope I have made enough expression
Of my affection—
Par.
What do I hear?
Tysam.
'Tis but to give thee more assurance
Of my love, for which I dare adventure
Life and Crown.
Par.
That word! oh my heart!—
[Aside.
Stat.
[Page 27]
Then know who 'tis you stay—
And thus dare frown upon your will.
Tysam.
How's this?
Stat.
And what I thought this breast should have conceal'd,
I'le utter with a boldness does become my honour—
And when you know it, you'l perhaps, as soon
Cherish a Tygress near your bosom—
Know Sir—I came with full intent to kill you—
Mark me well: to kill you—for your faithless promise;
But that the vertues of your Queen with-held me,
In whom I wish you ever bless'd: the whiteness
Of whose Soul, I thought it sin to cloud
(From act of mine) with sorrow.
Par.
Forgive me Heaven;
This Woman is some Angel sure; I can
No longer hold but pay my reverence.
[Par. goes towards Stat.
Tysam.
We are interrupted—my Guard there!—
Enter Captain of the Guard.
Convey that Lady from my sight, and see
Her safe consin'd within her lodgings.
Par.
Let me beg for her freedom, though I do it
On my knees—
Tysam.
I must not grant it; she came
To ruine my content, perhaps in thee;
A Treason too she has confest against my life.
Stat.
Let me deserve your fair opinion, Madam,
Though I dye.
Tysam.
Away with her—how does my Parisatis?
[Ex. Statyra with the Captain of the Guard.
Par.
Never better—this dissipates my fear.
[Aside.
Enter Bassanes.
Bass.
Embassadresses from
The Queen Mandana are arriv'd.
Tysam.
See their reception want no state our Court
[Page 28] [...][Page 29] [...][Page 26] [...][Page 27] [...]
[Page 28] Can give; they shall have Audience speedily.
Some thoughts require me to my Closet first.
[Ex. Tysamnes.
Par.
Bassanes, never so happy, as this minute
In which I prov'd the fix'd assurance of
My Kings affection. The Persian beauty
Who but so late gave apprehensions to
My love, is now no more my fear.
Bass.
She is a noble Lady,
And gave me confirmation of her honour.
Par.
'Tis most unquestion'd.
Bass.
She does intend suddenly
To return back to Persia.
Par.
Alas! the King
(To my great grief) in much displeasure
Has restrain'd her.
Bass.
I hope she'l soon have liberty.
Par.
It shall not want my intercession.
Bass.
Pray Heav'n this be no Artifice.
Par.
True love is soon confirm'd; but in that Brest
[Aside.
Suspicion storms, it ne're can anchor'd rest.
[Exeunt.
Enter Clarina and Melvissa.
Clar.
Our Petition had but small success.
Melv.
No matter, as to thy case; did not I
Promise to serve thee?
Clar.
But where's the faith
Believes it possible?
Melv.
If it be next a Miracle,
And do the feat, thou'lt welcom the effect?
Clar.
However, my obligement's great to your endeavours.
Melv.
What if a smile or look of thine, or a toy
As inconsiderate as the least lock of thy hair,
Produce his Loves return, as I apply it;
Hast thou not reason to thank the means?
Clar.
'Tis granted.
Melv.
Therefore believe well; rememb'ring that
We are told, a dram of faith can do
[Page 29] Far greater wonders.
Clar.
You shall confirm me,
But I hope it is no Charm or Magick?
I am strangely fearful of the Devil.
Melv.
Rather a means from Heaven! my Mother
Left it as a Legacy to me.
Clar.
A Recipe most Wives may wish for here.
Melv.
I thought to have given it to the Queen,
But that perhaps 'twere death to own,
And this our custom unrevok'd.
Clar.
I hope her vertues ne're will want affection.
Melv.
As it effects, I'le tell thee more.
Enter Foscaris.
Here comes thy Husband, and I am prepar'd
For him to purpose—thou must withdraw
Till I give thee notice to appear.
[Ex. Clarina.
Fosc.
Madam! your most humble servant.
Melv.
And I perhaps ten times more yours.
Fosc.
This sounds briskly.
Melv.
Not that I intend to instance,
You have parted with a deserving Lady,
And so press a reconciliation from
The doctrine and uses of Love, as some Matrons
Amongst us might perhaps ring in your ears
In the like case.
Fosc.
Far be it from me to
Think it, Madam; I know you are well bred,
And must therefore understand what better
Belongs to our Mode, and a Gentleman, then so.
Melv.
Well said Gallant—but I hope you'l not teach
My Husband to follow your example;
And like such a Buck as your self, break
Through the toyl and bonds of Marriage;
Though some of you allow it no more, then
A State device to catch fools.
Fosc.
This is a Witty Rogue; a Wife that understand;
[Page 30] The intrigues of a Mistress.
Melv.
Then say, my husbands wife
Should think you a fine Gentleman—
Fosc.
I understand you Madam.
Melv.
And were willing to bestow some affection
On your worth.—
Fosc.
Go on Lady, go on; you are
Coming to a point indeed.
Melv.
There it is, you have it to a hair—
[Gives him a Bracelet inclos'd in a Paper.
I hope you will keep Counsel—
Fosc.
O Madam! 'twere sin to doubt it.
Melv.
And wear it carefully, for the owners sake
I mean, and so farewel kind Foscaris;
If this fail, thou'rt proof above Mortal.
[Aside.
Now to be near and act further as occasion serves.
[Ex. Melv.
Fosc.
What have I here? I'le open it carefully,
And first taste it by the smell; it scents
Most Lady-like, and amorous; methinks
It moves too, I know not how: Oh these Women
Are rare contrivers in these Scenes of Love—
Now for the enclos'd—
[Opens it.
Ha, ha, ha, a Bracelet of a lock of Hair,
In colour much resembling my Wives: but
Such a trick on me, were to little purpose,
I'le tangle no more there—but now I think on't,
I have found the knack; as sure as I am made
Of flesh and blood, 'tis Melvissa courts me
For her self, for which purpose she handles
Andrages, her husband, at that rate.
'Tis a witty-gay female, as most within
Our Kingdom; and it seems the Rascal's
Willing to graft his fore-head, and be beholding
To his Friend for the Horn. In the mean time
I'le pleasure her desire, and wear her favour.
[Puts it on his arm.
The Devil on't, it warms the vein that leads
To the Heart strangely; and 'tis love I feel
In abundance—I must vent it somewhere,
[Page 31] Or I shall burn to ashes; 'tis most certain I am
Charm'd to purpose, and 'tis odds but some evil spirit
Waits at my elbow.
Melv.
within.
None but thy better Genius—
[Speaks altering of her voice.
Fos.
Ha! a voice too, then there is a Devil in the
Case 'tis manifest—what art thou, and from whence?
Melv.
I am a Spirit belonging to the element of fire.
Fosc.
Thou hast some possession of me already then,
Who am flame all over—what is thy business?
Melv.
Love, kindest Love.
Fosc.
The same is mine, and
Since thou art a kind Familiar, I dare ask
Thee a question—Art thou a Genius of Love at large
According to our Gallantizing Mode? or art thou for
A more peculiar Courtship?
Melv.
I incite Honourable, and Matrimonial Love.
Fosc.
A most Heroick Devil indeed;
But take a care how thou dost otherwise appear to me,
Lest my sword make bold with one of thy limbs,
And it prove afterwards to belong to some
Sorcerer, or Witch.
Melv.
You need not fear that.
Fosc.
Prethee avoid me then, I would not willingly be haunted
By a Matrimonial Genius of all other.
Melv.
Your desire is granted—
While only I'le thy heart incite
To love thy fair deserted Wife,
For whose sake, I am oblig'd thy sense to ply,
Since on thy wrist thou didst a philter tye.
And so farewel.
[Ex. Melvissa.
Fosc.
Adieu, adieu! had ever man such a Dialogue
As this?
[He studies.
Enter Clarina and Melvissa.
Melv.
Be confident I have perform'd to purpose.
Clar.
I warrant you.
Melv.
Nay more to his greater
[Page 32] Terror, I withdrew here, and counterfeited my self
A Spirit.
Clar.
Most excellent!
Melv.
And had
Such pleasant discourse with him.
Clar.
You have done above my expectation.
Melv.
He comes on fiercely I warrant thee.
Fosc.
And yet I do not find my hair stares, or
A cold sweat on me, enough to dissolve me to a gelly,
Like some stories I have heard of this kind.
Melv.
See, he's here, observe a little—in the mean time
I'le withdraw.
[Ex. Melv.
Fosc.
Whilst I feel such a heat dispers'd through every vein
Of my body, no man, or longing virgin ever felt
The like in any burning wish, or actual enjoyment—
Well Foscaris, thou hast got a tickling spirit in thee.
Clar.
I perceive it takes.
Fosc.
And yet methinks
It should not be in the power of Magick to make
Me affect my cast-off Wife; if it prove otherwise,
What a confounded Lover am I then—she's here.
[Observes her.
Clar.
Now I'le approach him.
[Walks towards him.
Fosc.
As I am a man, 'tis she I long for,
The very element of fire is met
Within me, and my heart rises to my very lips
At her appearance.
[Gazes on her.
Clar.
The Physick works; now to handle this patient.
[Aside.
Fosc.
Oh thou art bright indeed Clarina;
Ariadnes Crown of Stars is Copper
To thy Eyes, and in each look methinks thou
Stain'st the evenings glory.
Clar.
Good kind Sir, keep off, 'tis towards bed-time.
Fosc.
'Tis thither I would go with thee Love, and twine
More happily then ever! Alas, I did but this
To love thee ten times better then before;
As men restrain themselves from food they like
To make the next meal better.
Clar.
Keep your ground good Sir Amorous;
[Page 33] You and I must not come to the close embrace
So easily; and lest you should be boyst'rous,
I'le be gone.
Fosc.
Stay but a twilights time longer—
Clar.
'Tis more then I can well afford you.
Enter Andrages.
Fosc.
Nay prethee let me beg it though I kneel.
Clar.
You deserve some penance; I'le not intreat you
To be sparing.
[Ex. Clarina▪
Andr.
Foscaris kneeling! and to his own Wife?
The world sure turns round, or Plato's year
Is come about; if this Diamond he late
Discarded should again be Trump?—
What Foscaris! pensive?
Fosc.
Oh I am undone!
And.
What's the matter?
Fosc.
Nay, thou'lt laugh me into shame enough
When thou know'st it.
Andr.
By no means.
Fosc.
Why, I am wounded by Cupid the wrong way?
Andr.
As how?
Fosc.
I scarce know how to tell thee.
Andr.
Nay prethee let me know.
Fosc.
Understand then I am in love
With my own cast petticoat; if that be not
A curse to a Scythian Husband, I'le
Challenge fate to do worse if possible.
Andr.
Though I found thee on thy knees, I hope
Thou dost not pray over love again to thy Wife.
Fosc.
But I do, and at such an intolerable rate,
That were every sense of mine a several soul,
She might command 'em all to express it.
Andr.
Is't possible?—
Fosc.
And more, look well to thy self,
I fear thy Wife's an Inchantress.
Andr.
Ha, ha, ha—
Fosc.
[Page 34]
If thou dost not see her flying steeple high,
And thy self atop on her shortly, I'le hang
As high for't.
Andr.
But you thought there was no such thing
As Charm or Magick in Love, and that our
Scythian Wives would have still continued such
Tame things, as like bob'd Eyesses, they might
Have been turn'd off; and took to hand at pleasure.
Fosc.
I have prov'd the Experiment dearly:
Take care and mock not, lest thou art beheld
Converted to a Cat, and cry Mew
To keep her company.
Andr.
Is this the man
That could defie Cupid and all his Arts?
Nay shoot your Darts contrary to his, at
A minutes warning—was it not so?
Fosc.
I thought I could, till more then mortal powers
Conspir'd against me.
Andr.
And for a Wife, 'twas
Such a potion, must have no more to do
With your palate.
Fosc.
The very name of her
Inflames me like fire.
Andr.
A little more to cool you
And I have done; come I'le put you in mind,
Of a Julip of your own composition;
[Sings.
What though her Eyes are black,
And kisses with a knack, &c.
Fosc.
No more, no more, though I deserve to be
Bitten with a Satyr could sting worse then
Scorpions.
Andr.
Well; I have done.
Fosc.
Let's shake hands then,
And go thus postur'd to the Frantick Society here,
Amongst which I'le dye,
If e're there were two such Fanatick presidents
Of Husbands as our selves: Oh 'twould make such a
Novelty of distempers!
Andr.
[Page 35]
And there endure a little of the twig,
Shall we?
Fosc.
By any means;
Thou for observing thy Wife with such a
Fond affection, as I beyond dotage
Long for mine again.
Andr.
Good Foscaris,
Enough of this extravagancy: In the mean time
I have so far the better of the malady,
That I have no fear of thy relapse,
And for a cure, let me advise one more gentle;
Let's drink some Wine, and give it spirit
In Clarina's health.
Fosc.
Oh that I could taste her lips once more—
And mark me friend, 'tis odds as I am a Gentleman,
But in spight of all prevention I shall
Hang or drown my self for love, e're the next Moon.
Andr.
Come I'le take care of thee.
[Exeunt.
Enter Tysamnes, Parisatis, Bassanes, Clarina, Melvissa, Toxaris, Alvanes, and Araxis, &c.
Tysam.
We understand Bassanes, that the Embassadresses
From the Queen Mandana are arriv'd.
Bass.
They are, Sir.
Tysam.
Attend them to our presence.
[Ex. Bassanes.
An Embassy few Courts have seen before,
Where Women bear their Princes Errands,
And rule supreamly even our Sex.
What think you Ladies, were your case alike
With us?
Clar.
For mine I should not wish it, Sir,
'Twere too injurious to the right of men.
Melv.
You are a little of the kindest Lady—
For my part, Sir, were I born under the like
Favourable Aspect of Venus, 'tis odds but I
Should wear a Bow and Quiver, to maintain
[Page 36] The priviledge—you'l pardon, Sir, my freedom.
Tysam.
A witty sprightly Lady—and yet I dare believe
There's none of all you Gentlemen, that has
A Wife predominant, who does not own
Submission to the custom here.—
Tax.
This touches home.
Tysam.
I am confirm'd, that were the case my consorts here,
(So dear unto my soul) she would not claim
Her self exempted.
Alv.
That parenthesis was odly plac'd.
[Aside.
Par.
You know I am all obedience, Sir,
And hope you'l now receive such offers, from
This our neighbour-Queen, as will not give your thoughts
The least disturbance; nor would I have a War
Wherein my Sex should fight, were I made a party
In the cause, or injury.
Tysam.
Thou art all Excellence.
Enter Bassanes with Renone, and Cydane the Embassadresses.
Now Ladies, your Queens pleasure.
Renone.
Who does by us, most Royal Sir, congratulate
Your great accession to this Throne, and more, your joys
In this your fair and vertuous Queen, who scarce
Has equal in her Sex: to which (if possible)
Her wishes do yet adde more happiness.
Tysam.
This is but usual form of State: proceed.
Cyd.
'Tis what our Queen expects you'l welcom,
Who waves dispute of Territories,
The usual great concerns of Thrones;
And has but one demand instead of all,
To make your Greatness: whence may spring
A lasting league betwixt her mighty Crown
And yours.
Tysam.
Speak it then!
Par.
I hope 'twill find reception.
Cyd.
Then know, our Mighty Mistress does demand
By us an Abrogation of that most
[Page 37] Rigid usage here, from which the Husbands will
Is too much Lord of love.
Tysam.
Sure, you mistake your Embassy?
Ren.
Nor can she reign without a blush must stain
Her glories, should she not (if deny'd)
Compel by arms her Sexes fair relief.
Clar.
Nobly urg'd.
Melv.
Methinks I could fight in this Cause my self.
Arax.
The King is mov'd.
[Aside.
Alv.
Observe the Queen.
Tysam.
Your Queen's too bold with us in this demand;
But she's a Woman.
Cyd.
And soon you'l find, she'l slight
All dangers in this Cause: nor is the world
Unknowing, that her arms (though guided
By the conduct of our Sex) has oft gave
Wars rough Laws to men.
Par.
Let me then intercede, my Royal Husband,
I would not have a quarrel in this Cause,
(Although I doubt not from your love security)
The world I know would say you but defend
A most unkind prerogative; and since 'tis thus,
Bestow it as a bounty on the Sex for my sake.
Tysam.
Can this proceed from Parisatis?
Par.
As truly as I wish your peace and love.
Tysam.
Thou dost mistake in both—
Par.
Besides, what honour wer't in such a Cause
To be a Conquerour? or on your Warlike Trophee to
Inscribe, you did subdue the force of Women,
Led by a neighbour Queen, whose bravery
Of soul, deserves esteem and wonder—
I know you'l condescend.
Tysam.
Away, thou dost abuse thy Love and me.
Par.
Is't possible?
Tysam.
Or else endeavour'st by compliance with
This Embassy, to betray the honour of
This Crown, and People; take which you like—
And know thou hast forfeited thy Being
[Page 36] In my soul.
Par.
Heaven defend.
Tysam.
And tell your Queen I'le reign
[To the Embassadresses.
A King of men in spight of all her power
Of Spinsters: whose honour by this grant would be
The mock of Women. Nor do I doubt their hearts
And swords will join with mine to assert this
Nations right.
Tox.
The King is much incens'd.
[Aside.
Alv.
I hope 'twill not reflect upon the Queen.
Tysam.
And by my Act, to assure the world how much
I'le own my Subjects priviledge, behold my Queen.
Cyd.
A Lady full of Grace and Vertue—
Par.
Oh my fears!
Tysam.
Who with no more concern I'le cast away,
Then Indians do a Pearl, that ne're did know
It's value; and from this hour no more my Wife.
Par.
Must it be so?
Bass.
Consider Sir, this Act
May prove a rash one—
Tysam.
My resolution's fixt—nor do I fear
What Law can act, though hence I reign not jointly
With this Queen, while by the power I possess,
I can create a right above it.
Par.
Nor shall I plead a word
Against your Will, though it severely fall
Upon my Love; or mention what should be
Your gratitude to me, that gave you both
My self and Crown, and yet will give my life,
If your concern require it—
You'l give me time convenient to withdraw.
Tysam.
Thou shalt to any place retire within
My Crowns Dominion, where thou shalt live
In state and greatness of a Queen—
And so farewel.
Par.
Adieu, my dearest.
Alv.
This action of the King was unexpected.
[Aside.
Arax.
Such as must breed some strange distemper here.
Tox.
[Page 37]
I wish our Almanacks were all burnt else.
Tysam.
To morrow you shall have our Letters to your Queen.
Renone.
And as becomes her she'l resent this Act.
Tysaem.
Bassanes
[Ex. Tysamnes and Bassanes.
Cydan.
Madam, you have our pity.
[Ex. Embassadresses.
Clar.
The Queen deserves a sorrow
From all Hearts.
Melv.
She has deeply mine.
Par.
Though life has many ways to lose it's comforts,
Few hinder the distressed means of death:
And let my sad example teach my Sex,
That when they love embarque with men, 'tis like
A vessel, that with guilded streamers sails
On dangerous Seas, and in each calm must think
This smooth-fac'd Ocean may their Barques soon sink.
Exeunt.

ACT III. SCENE I.

Enter Parisatis in a Mourning Vail led by Bassanes.
Bass.
I Want no sense of your afflictions, Madam.
Par.
'Tis like your worth.
Bass.
And dare express it more
Then entertaining of your griefs by naked Accents,
That were too low and common for Bassanes heart;
Each vulgar ear that hears from rumours breath,
Will do as much, and glory in the hope
Of making stubborn Heaven bend to hear
Your sufferings.
Par.
You are a Prince ally'd unto my Crown,
Nor can I doubt, but every vein of yours
Ha's many streams of honour—
Bass.
Know, Madam,
[Page 40] Since you are pleas'd to call me worthy of
Your great Alliance; I want no heart to tell
The King, your Husband (though sitting on the Throne)
His ingratitude.
Par.
I wish I had been truly charg'd with any crime
That might have given his Act in my desertion,
Some vizard to out-face the world: I dare believe
The Law that first here gave this liberty to man,
Did tacitely imply the Husband should
Not be a lawless Tyrant to the Wife.
Bass.
The injustice is too palpable; and
Fitter 'twere this Law had no more being,
Or the Sex of women against Natures
Made supreme, then thus to be imbitter'd
'Gainst your vertue,
Though smooth'd and guilded over with pretexts,
He calls State Policy, and Marriage Interest,
But simply Artifice to bring another
To his Throne and Bed.
Par.
I fear 'tis too much a truth.
Bass.
Statyra is no doubt design'd to shine
In this Meridian, by your fair remove:
But think not, Madam, that your Eclipse of
Glory can pass without your Subjects due
Remorse, and vindication: he is a King here
But as you made him so, in giving him
Your self a Queen; and from your love has only
Title to your Subjects hearts.
Par.
And had the world
Been mine in Kingdoms, with as many Hearts,
My affection had dispos'd 'em all to him.
Bass.
You have given proof above parallel.
Par.
But this ingratitude does combate with my soul!
Bass.
Permit, I serve your Royal Vertue.
Par.
I know thou dar'st revenge my wrong, and hast
An interest in thy blood and merits, that
Can guide this Nations Arms, and raise a stream
Of vulgar force, enough to sink Tysamnes
[Page 41] Even to the depth of ruine, though fortify'd with
All the power he now enjoys.
Bass.
I will imploy my utmost in your service.
Par.
I have I see a Subject great, brave, and faithful;
In spight of all adversity—Bassanes
Thou wilt obey me strictly?
Bass.
Be danger what it will;
Nor need you question, but the arm I shall apply
Is strong enough to right, or else revenge
Your injuries: nor want I means prepar'd
Even at this minute, that shall soon perform
The least breath of your commands.
Par.
Then know, I do enjoin you all obedience
To the King—
Bass.
How, Madam?
Par.
I mean Tysamnes,
Who has thrown me from his heart, and that far
More strict, if possible, then had he met
My Love with equal constancy—I would
Not live and underact the part of virtue.
Bass.
You oblige me now to be your enemy—
Who knows how soon you may be taken from
The world by him, that thus has cast you from
His bosom?
Par.
'Tis not inglorious if I die,
Or split on any rock,
This storm shall throw me on,
If Innocence be my harbour.
Bass.
The Worm that's trod on, bows in some displeasure
When it's griev'd; what should then do your Greatness?
Par.
But vertue's yet more gentle, whose value's
Most refin'd by suffering—I know
You will obey me.
Bass.
Since 'tis your pleasure.
Par.
And be sure give out 'twas Act of State,
Or Crime in me, or any thing thou can'st devise
Most plausible, to assure the people
To Tysamnes. And more, that 'tis my strict
[Page 44]
Enter Eumenes and Draxanes.
Eum.
The Queen, Sir, is withdrawn.
Tysam.
How's that?
Drax.
Remov'd Sir, none knows whither.
Tysam.
I fear she has taken some precipitate resolve.
Bass.
The joys this news will bring,
Must soon cause her appearance,
Where e're she is retir'd.
Tysam.
Make strict and speedy search,
He wants no wealth brings happy tidings first.
Eum. Drax.
We'll use all diligence.
[Ex. Eum. Drax.
Tysam.
Bring forth Statyra.
Bass.
I'le wait her to you, Sir.
[Ex. Bassanes.
Tysam.
'Tis fit she know
How much I have offended for her sake.
Enter Bassanes and Statyra.
Statyra, I must beg a pardon of thy vertue.
Stat.
Sir, you have prov'd I can forgive.
Tysam.
Thy goodness I have injur'd next my Queens,
And I am making of my peace with Heaven
And her.
Stat.
'Tis worthy of your Soul—But you'l consider, Sir—
Tysam.
I do, that 'twas my sin of love to thee
Which did induce this Act, to whom I first
Dispos'd my heart: and would to Heaven I had
Two souls, that I might give one to thy vertue,
And make thee twin in my affection with my Queen;
Excepting whom, the world and womankind
Are but trifles to my heart.
Stat.
Mine is as truly yours;
And let this blush excuse my boldness,
If I claim you now my own.
Tysam.
How's this Statyra?
Stat.
[Page 45]
You are made free by Law,
(If such a one this Country owns) and can
That less then plead for my enjoyment now,
So much your Lover?
Bass.
I did not look for this.
[Aside.
Tysam.
Tempt me not fair Statyra, lest I fall
Below the sin of the Apostate Angels;
And call thy love my second crime.
Stat.
I did but mention mine to prove your constancy.
May you for ever live most happy in
Your Queen; and for your sake I'le beg of Heaven
That she may late be taken thither.
Tysam.
Thou art a pattern of perfection—
Stat.
And since you now have made me free, I'le crave
Your leave to respite my return, till I
Congratulate your happy meeting with
Your Queen, and so to Persia, where I'le
Spread your joys.
Bass.
This centers with my wish.
[Aside.
Tysam.
Each syllable of thine does give my soul new wonder.
Since not alone, thou can'st my Crime forgive,
But yield I may anothers Lover live.
Ex. Tysamnes leading Statyra, Bassanes.
Enter Melvissa with two Courtiers.
Melv.
You are pleas'd to like my entertainment
Gentlemen; and I am apt enough to be
Proud of your good opinion.
1 Court.
You are all diversion, Madam, our Court
Has not such another Lady.
2 Court.
I hope you'l
Give me leave to spend some hours with your converse.
Melv.
You may be welcom as I please
Jointly, and severally.
Both.
We understand you, Madam.
Melv.
But methinks you are a little dull (though
Courtly bred) since you speak praises of my Wit,
[Page 46] But have little to say for my Beauty.
1 Court.
Oh Madam! that's granted, the Court has no such
Star, bating the Queen.
2 Court.
Besides, your Ladyship
Cannot so far mistake our inclinations,
As to suppose we pay adorations
To the ugly, though ne're so witty;
They are only fit to eat with, provided
They keep good Tables.
Melv.
Now I perceive you.
1 Court.
But for you, Madam, (so perfectly taking)
The day is too short to admire you, and
The night to enjoy you.
Melv.
You aim well, and 'tis odds
But I guess the mark you'd hit—pray sit a while;
I can afford you some minutes—
[They sit by her.
2 Court.
There's no time
Long enough, we are not in haste.—
1 Court.
'Tis fit we wait your leisure.
Enter Andrages.
Melv.
I keep my lodgings free enough for entertainment,
And live without the fear of Prying Watchers, or the
Jealous Husbands eye.
Andr.
Oh my torment! she dares me to be jealous too.
[Aside.
2 Court.
I suppose, Madam, you allow the Gentleman
His times of hawking and hunting, in order
To your more private Recreations.
1 Court.
Let me be so happy I beseech you,
As to have notice when he is absent.
2 Court.
Or I, Madam, I should endeavour to serve you.
Andr.
I'le try whether I have so much courage
Left, as to mark these things (made up of perfumes
And Perriwigs) in the fore-head with a
[Draws his Sword.
Jealous token of mine, e're I am convicted
I wear a horn there my self—now Gentlemen—
1 Court.
Your Husband, Madam—we are in haste—
Melv.
[Page 47]
You need not make so much.
2 Court.
Your Humble Servant, Sir.—
1 Court.
The King expects me, Madam.
Melv.
You shall not part with any apprehension
Hence—how now Sir Hot Spur? I must curb you
I faith, if you offer to take such
Careers as these.
Andr.
You may command me, Madam—a Lark is not
So dar'd as I am by this Hobby of mine.
[Aside.
Melv.
Put up your Tool, and remove; your appearance
Was more unseasonable then I look'd for.
Andr.
Each word she speaks is a Charm; I have not
So much valour in me as to oppose her tongue,
What e're I have done, or dare do otherwise.
[Ex. Andrages.
Melv.
You may now withdraw,
Gentlemen, the King expects you.
Both.
Your Servant Lady.
Melv.
There is no need of the expression;
I did but act a little of the most to show my prerogative;
I hope you'l say there's one Woman amongst us
Has wit enough to rule her Husband
In spight of Law.
Both.
We'll witness it to wonder, Madam.
[Exeunt.
Enter Clarina hastily.
Clar.
Oh Madam! your experiment has done
Wonders; my Husband—
Melv.
Loves thee now to purpose.—
Clar.
Beyond expression.
Melv.
My mother prov'd
Such a like Artifice on my father,
For securities sake, yet lov'd him dearly.
Clar.
You have given good proof in your own,
And for mine, I believe he feels love
In every fiber of his heart; kneels to
Adore me, compares me to Stars, and
Vows that I am more fair then ever.
Oh what a kissing time shall I have on't, [Page 48] If he and I meet in embrace again?
Melv.
Tantalize him well first.
Clar.
But to say truth,
I long my self, and would willingly be—you guess—
Enter Foscaris.
Melv.
He comes, withdraw a while—
[Ex. Clarina.
Fosc.
Oh Madam! you
Have given me a present has had such
Powerful operation on me.
Melv.
By this time
You well understand the meaning on't
I assure my self.
Fosc.
'Tis love Madam, in extremity.
Melv.
Did I not tell you so?
Fosc.
I thought I had hit your sense
To a hair indeed, while I conceiv'd you
As Gentlemen should a Lady in the like case.
Meiv.
It means as good a thing I can assure you.
Fosc.
But I am doting on my Wife again,
And must (in spight of flesh and blood) woo her
'Twice over.
Melv.
There 'tis—Alas good Sir, who could
Have thought it in a man of your temper?
Fosc.
That same bewitching Bracelet you gave me,
Which I am fain to kiss thus reverently
Most minutes of the day, nay, sometimes pray to't;
I can't blame your Husband
For being such a strict Amorist; he
Has had his philter I suppose.
Melv.
I never found it needful; if I had,
Perhaps I should have endeavour'd much
To preserve his love.
Fosc.
There's not a hair
On thy head, but I dare say can do more
Then all the Charms of Medea.
Melv.
Excuse me, Sir.
Fosc.
[Page 49]
I should be loth to prove you guilty of
Magick, though 'tis certain.
Melv.
Proceed, good Sir,
And accuse me, because Heaven has brought
Your affection back again to your Lady;
'Tis odds but I shall answer it.
Fosc.
Well, since 'tis thus,
I forgive thee; and as you are a Woman,
Speak a good word for me.
Enter Clarina.
Melv.
That I assure you,
And perhaps have taken more care for you
Then you can imagine—here she comes,
Apply your self first.
[Ex. Melvissa.
Fosc.
And are we met thus?
Clar.
If not happily, you may remove me
With the least breath of yours.
Fosc.
Nay, prethee stay,
I love strangely to look on thee—
O that Eye of thine!—
Clar.
And this Cheek, this Lip, (some think not ill)
So often tasted by you, with other amorous
Passages of ours: does this remembrance please you?
Fosc.
To miracle!—
Clar.
And do you truly repent
My desertion, as you protested to me you did?
Fosc.
From the very bottom of my belly, sweetest.
Clar.
Had you said your heart, perhaps I had
Took your word, and consented to have met
Your desires on honourable terms.
Fosc.
This may be a device to bring my passion
To some further mockery: (these she Serpents
Want no wiles) I'le try whether or no
I can dissemble mine, though against the
Power of Magick.
Clar.
You dare trust my Love?
Fosc.
I could find in my heart—
Clar.
[Page 50]
You seem'd of late
To adore me so strangely, that I am oblig'd
To take pity of you now for fear of your wits.
Fosc.
'Tis certain she mocks me—
[Aside.
I confess I felt a kind flame, or so;
But I did not intend to keep a perpetual
Etna in my bosom, or such a Fevour
Of Love, that will only admit of one Julip.
Clar.
Melvissa's Arts do fail I fear.
Fosc.
Besides, you Women are such nice things
To handle, and as the world runs now,
Have such superlative devices.—
Clar.
I can forgive you truly; by this
[Points to his Picture by her side.]
Image which ne're can hang too near my heart.
Fosc.
My Picture still there? better and better;
[Aside.
As sure as I live she's charm'd too. Melvissa
I remember told me, that she had done
Something extraordinary for me; I may
Dissemble safely, and if need were, make her
Long as much for me now; what a rare turn
Of Love would that be?
Clar.
You then continue cruel still?
Fosc.
Alas my pretty fondling, I know thou
Wer't ever kind and tender; but to say truth
I did but counterfeit my passion, a little
To comply with thine, and gave out I had
Receiv'd I know not what charms of Venus,
Supposing thou had'st more wit then to believe
Such wonders.
Clar.
Is't possible?
Fosc.
Alas! what
Could'st thou expect from a man of my complexion?
Clar.
I'le try my own Art a little then—
[Aside.
Oh my Foscaris!—behold I dye to shew
Thee thy ingratitude
[She makes as if she swounded
[Page 51]
Enter Melvissa.
Fosc.
Help, help, help, my dearest thing of life,
I love thee most outragiously.
Clar.
Are you in earnest?
Fosc.
Alas! I could even eat thee to express it.
Clar.
May I confide?
Fosc.
Besides, I'le tell thee more;
I am charm'd to that purpose—
Behold this Bracelet, there's ten thousand
Spirits of Cupid in it.
Clar.
May I be certain? ha, ha, ha—
Fosc.
I'le swear it by a thousand Stars.
Clar.
Ha, ha, ha—
Fosc.
By this good light she jeers me.
Melv.
And acts her part unto my wish.
Clar.
Some other time you and I will dispute terms.
[Ex. Clar.
Fosc.
Oh my folly!
Melv.
If you want an Advocate,
Yet command me; in the mean time, I hope
You'l make much of your favour, and so adieu.
[Ex. Melv.
Enter Andrages.
Fosc.
If I am not put in a Ballad, or Lampoon'd
By some Scurrilous Poet before to morrow
This time, there is no mischief in being a
Subject of ridiculous wonder.
Andr.
What's the matter?
Fosc.
Ask me no questions.—
Andr.
But I could tell thee
Such a story of my Rancounters.
Fosc.
But pronounce not the name of Wife.
Andr.
I'le tell thee news then; 'tis said we shall have
Wars with our Amazon neighbours.
Fosc.
Let it come,
I have quarrel enough to the whole Sex
For the sake of one.
[...]
[...]
[...]
[...]
Andr.
[Page 52]
But if they have many
Such Pentheselea's amongst 'em as my Wife,
We are beaten into corners.
Fosc.
I am for any thing that's desperate,
And if I do not cut as many of 'em
Off at the waste, to be reveng'd of this
Evil Genius of mine, let me dye
By their Bodkins.
[Exeunt.
Enter Tysamnes, Alvanes, Araxis, Draxanes, Eumenes, and others.
Tysam.
Call in the Embassadresses.
[Ex. Eum. Drax.
Enter Bassanes with Renone and Cydane.
Here are our Letters to your
Queen.—We hear her Army
Is advanc'd near upon our Confines.
Renon.
But first by us denounces War;
Who scorns to gain a foot of earth, but what
Her Sword shall fairly win.
Tysam.
We'll soon prepare to meet her.
Cydan.
And thus we take our leaves.
[King whispers Alv. & Arax.
Bassanes
to the Embassadresses aside.]
I hope your Queen, whose most Illustrious
Person I admire, will grant me pardon,
[Aside.
If in my Countries Cause I serve a Souldier.
Renon.
She honours worth in all, amongst whom Your vertues have no small effects, Acknowledg'd by the world A worthy Captain.
Bass.
Your Servant Ladies.
[Ex. Embassadresses.
Enter Fosearis and Andrages.
Tysam.
You shall have all Commands become your valours;
I know as men, you stand oblig'd to serve this Cause.
Fosc.
To a man, Sir.
Andr.
And I (excepting one Woman)
Dare act as much against the Sex: but she
[Page 53] I must confess, Sir, has the better on me
In all Incounters.
Tysam.
Your Wife I guess;
I am glad to hear I have a Subject who
Is so kind a Husband—
No news yet of our Queen?
Bass.
Not any, as the best of my Intelligence can learn.
Tysam.
My soul is on the torture.
Enter Toxaris.
Tox.
I hope Sir, I have brought you happy tidings in this Letter.
Tysam.
'Tis Parisatis hand.
Tox.
'Twas given me
From an unknown person, who would not stay
To satisfie my further Queries.
Tysam.
reads.
Let this assure you from Parisatis,
That she is remov'd from this Life, before
It meets your hand: The means I have
Resolv'd on for my end, I will not give you the
Grief to hear, or charge you guilty of my death,
And to confirm you, this preoedes my last being;
I have sent you this Jewel, you must witness
I vow'd should be kept to the death of Parisatis.
Oh Heavens! my Parisatis dead! read
Here Bassanes.
[Bassanes reads.
Bass.
My tears are slow, but credit me,
The death of Armies, and the groans of War
When made from gasping Friends, just drowning
Of their souls in streams of blood, ne're shook
My heart like this.
Tysam.
Thy griefs are truly mine.
Bass.
But hope that providence, whose paths are
Labyrinths, may yet—
Enter Statyra.
Tysam.
She's dead, she's dead, too certain—
Stat.
The King's disturb'd.
Tysam.
[Page 54]
Beyond expression; Parisatis my Queen—
Stat.
I hop'd was now return'd to your embrace.
Tysam.
The other world contains her vertues, she's dead.
Stat.
My eyes can ne're want streams to pour
With yours for such a loss.
Tysam.
Mine are too guilty to partake
With thine; and had I more then Niobe
E're shed to drown my soul in; or turn'd
To Marble at this news like her, 'twere but
Too gentle to express my crime or grief.
Stat.
This passion's glorious.
Tysam.
What death can I devise, or torments
Give my soul enough, that have at once
To answer breach of faith to thee and death of her?
Stat.
Your stain is deep in both, though far more vile
As you are a Prince who did unworthily
Possess the love and glories
Of so excellent a Queen; that no pretence
Of Power, or Law, can expiate—
But since by Heavens decree she's thus remov'd
To Stars, for which did I but know her Urn,
I'de visit it, and pay my tears as an
Oblation to her memory—
Yet now 'tis fit you live for my sake
Tysam.
Thou hast some justice to my life,
But wilt not now oblige it?
Stat.
I do, and
Claim it as the greatest blessing of my own.
Tysam.
There's nothing left me, but in thee, that can
Invite a minutes breath.
Stat.
You had my first love Sir,
So far you have an interest still.
Tysam.
And for thy sake I will admit to live;
Nay more, I'le talk to thee of Love, and with
What penitence thou shalt require, acknowledge
My past vows to thee, besides the guilt of my
Ingratitude unto my Parisatis.
Stat.
Heaven must absolve your crime to both,
[Page 55] For this your noble sorrow.
Tysam.
Thy words are comforts to my soul;
But this is such an hour the Stars must mourn,
Or find new trepidations in their orbs
To fright the earth with some calamity—
Besides an Enemy does threaten now to invade
Our Kingdom—Bassanes, you shall command
As General.
Bass.
With my best duty Sir, and 'twas
Your Queens command I should continue still your
Faithful Subject.
Tysam.
I have no other title here to reign but from her love,—
Admit I leave thee, fair Statyra, in some place
Of best security.
Stat.
I am oblig'd to be companion in your dangers.
Tysam.
That were an endless peril, though thy vertue
Be above what fate can injure.
Stat.
My heart were else not worth the owning yours.
Tox.
A brave and gracious Lady.
Alv.
The King 'tis sure affects her.
[Aside.
Tysam.
I feel a cloud upon my soul, I know not when
Or how 'twill vanish—
Come Statyra, my Love and thine must wait
The calmer hours of time and kinder fate.
Ex. Omnes.

ACT IV. SCENE I.

Enter Mandana, Daranthe, Cydane, Renone, and other Women.
Mand.
THE King may soon repent he gave our Treaty
Such neglect.
Cyd.
We doubt it not, most royal Madam—
Mand.
And for his Queen, whose fair desertion
Has the first place in our quarrel, would she
Were now alive, that we might with our arms
Impose her on his Love.
Daran.
[Page 56]
'Twere to be wish'd.
Mand.
The proof we have now given by taking
This strong City of Daxata on the River
Volga, must make 'em know, their force
Must yield unto our Sexes power,
We lead—what thinks our chief
Commandress?
Daran.
I judge that victory will soon
Make offerings at your feet.
Mand.
This Pass we have
Secur'd must prove considerable, since it
Impedes all their recruits that way.
Daran.
And what's more,
Hinders provision might else arrive
Unto their Camp: nor can they forrage here
Much longer, environ'd on each side with
Mountains, where by your mighty conduct
All the passages stand seiz'd by us.
Mand.
I think
They dare not hope to force their passage.
Daran.
Our Womens hearts must fail 'em strangely then,
And make your greatness wear a blush,
To see them this day prove degenerate,
Who from your conduct glory many Victories.
Mand.
Spoke like the blood of Amazons.
Renon.
Nor do we doubt the issue of this day
Will make your Prowess far more fam'd
Then brave Thalestris (stories tell) was from
Great Alexander, (the Prince of Captains)
Held in highest admiration.
Mand.
I see You are all resolv'd, as does become
This Cause I fight, by which we'll force even Nature
To confess she was a partial Mother
To our Sex, when she made man
First heir of Glory.
Daran.
Royal Madam—
Mand.
Enough, they serve
[Page 57] Our drudgeries, our pleasures, or embraces,
To create us Souldiers, that scorn their uses
But for our heroick ends.
Daran.
Did but the Women
Of this world besides hear this, they'd be asham'd,
To think they had not broke the yoke of men,
And such a fair and great Protectress in your self.
Mand.
An entertainment for our Greatness there,
That this haughty Prince, Tysamnes, (who dares
Make War against our Sex) may know that we
In this strong City, forc'd from his bold powers,
Keep our triumphant joys.
Ren.
Some Prisoners of War desire to present
Your Majesty with a Dance, after the
Manner of their Country.
Man.
We admit them.
Musick and a Dance.
Enter Messenger.
Mess.
A Moorish Lady desires admittance
To your presence.
Man.
She has our leave.
Enter Parisatis disguis'd like a Moor.
Man.
Your business Lady.
Par.
'Tis such, most Royal Madam, must beg
A pardon for my craving this access,
Who have journy'd far, to see the glory
Of your Arms and Person, fam'd above all
The antient Amazons so much renown'd.
Mand.
The ambition of this visit we can pardon;
And glad we are our Actions have
Oblig'd the world and fame.
Par.
But more your Sex in this
Fair Cause your arms embrace.
Mand.
This language suits
Our greatness—
Par.
And though our swarthy clime
[Page 58] Cannot boast Natures Beauties in Rose
And Lilly cheeks; that gives us there as Daughters
Of the night; or that the kisses of the Sun
Were so unkindly spent, as it alone
Did darken us, and guild the world besides;
Yet we have there bright souls of honour.
Mand.
I find thou hast, above what I in this
Short view can read—thy Name?
Par.
Zeriffa, Madam—
Mand.
Thy extraction
I need not ask, I know it must be great
That represents thy self so full of noble grace
Unto our presence.
Par.
Your great esteem is
My ambition to improve, though with the
Greatest hazard of my life.
Mand.
And dost thou then love Arms?—
Par.
So far, most Royal Madam, as I would
Be glad to dye, though not so much as mention'd
In the lowest place, among the Annals
Of your fair Atchievments.
Mand.
I even dare
Already boast I have a Souldier in thee,
Worthy to lead with us, and these, whose veins
Are warm'd with blood of Amazons, inciting
Deeds, which but reported to the softer
Of our Sex, give tremblings to their hearts.
Par.
I should be loth to lose my share in honour,
Or miss the end I have design'd my life;
Yet must avow I never yet have fought.
Mand.
Though thy Complexion above all thy Sex,
Nature has fitted most to deeds of War,
In which the scars, and wounds of arms, cannot
Dig furrows in the fair brow of Beauty,
So dear unto the vainer of thy kind.
Yet I must now require, whether no other
Motive has produc'd this inclination?
Par.
I'le soon confess I have not liv'd so much
[Page 59] Oblig'd by man, as that I may not justly
Be concern'd in your great cause and quarrel
To make an offering of my life.
Mand.
Thou hast won my confidence.
Par.
The command I ask from your great Majesty,
Shall be but mean, such as your prudence best
Will judge becomes a strangers trust.
Mand.
And thou shalt have it, worthy Moor.
Par.
But crave it may be hazardous and daring:
Heaven knows how willing
I am to be rid of life.
[Aside.
Mand.
Thou shalt have fit employment for thy valour—
And take care my valiant Women, that this
Moor, who promises such wonders of her Faith
And Vertue, does not in noble emulation
Match your Prowess.
Daran.
The Queen's soon taken with this stranger.
Cydan.
She seems to promise much.
Mand.
A suit of our best Arms and Quiver
For this Moor
Daranthe, and you Ladies,
See her according to our warlike mode
Invested; nor do I doubt thou'lt use 'em
Nobly.
Enter one with Arms and Quiver.
[They put 'em on.
Par.
I should be else not worthy of that Soul
I would be thought to bear.
Enter Messenger.
Mess.
The Enemy prepares for
Battel, Mighty Queen.
Mand.
We will prevent 'em giving the onset first—
Mean while, let's hear a Martial Ode,
The Harmony our Womens ears delight;
While others of their Sex warble amorous
Notes to entertain their Lovers.
The Queen Mandana leads her Amazon Women in state round the Stage, making several pauses while the Ode is Singing; at the end of which they go off.
The Amazons are suppos'd to sing the Martial Ode.
To Arms, to Arms, the Warlike fare,
As our Heroick Charms,
With Martial Eccho's fill the Air,
Inviting unto Arms.
Our Women with their Bows and Darts,
Dare Mans rough powers assail,
And Conquer such unshaken Hearts
To give Love laws as we Prevail.
Advance, advance, lest fortunes hacte
Our Onsets should delay,
Obliging time that flies so fast,
To curb his Steeds this day;
And hand in hand with mighty fame,
That wraps in Clouds her head,
Her glorious daughters us proclaim,
And first our stately Triumphs lead.
We challenge Dian and her Host
Of Nymph-like Archers all,
Who from their Quivers glory boast,
Or proud Acteons fall;
If ever their bright eyes beheld,
A Chorus like to ours;
Or saw themselves so far excell'd
By Womens more Heroick powers.
[Exeunt.
Enter Bassanes, Foscaris, Andrages, Eumenes and Draxanes.
Bass.
Be couragious Gentlemen, the straight we are in,
I doubt not but my conduct with the Kings
Will find some brave expedient to relieve.
Omn.
We'l all dye at your command.
Bass.
And for the Souldiers wants, our valours soon
Shall feed, e're their pin'd bellies mutiny
[Page 61] For bread; my presence is requir'd to see
What order keeps our other wing.
[Ex. Bassanes.
Fosc.
Well Lads, we must fight it out to purpose,
I find there's no getting else a crum of sustenance.
Andr.
Or be made such drudges to these Amazonia
Furies, their Camp has not the like.
Drax.
In our late skirmish methoughts they fought
Like Dragons, and handl'd their Bows with more
Dexterity then Parthians.
Andr.
There's at least
A Legion of Women, or more Evil Spirits
In any one of them.
Eum.
And should we fall
Into their hands, what might they expect
After that rate?
Drax.
As I am a Souldier,
I think a Brigade of men would scarce do
The bus'ness of one Woman of this Generation,
If they have the same vivacity for Venus,
As for Mars.
Fosc.
This morning I could have been contented
To have broke my fast with one of the fair
Centinels next me; 'twas such a pretty
Hard-hearted Rogue.
Drax.
And if I starve for want
Of Bread and Women, let me perish unpity'd.
Eum.
Nay, we must venture on their bodies some way
Or other; there's not a passage left us else
So wide as man enters the world.
Drax.
'Tis said they hold
Intelligence with our Scythian
Women: and have made such furious resolves
If we fall into their hands.
Andr.
And for us Husbands—
If they Conquer—
Fosc.
Eunuch'd to a Man, Gentlemen—
I look to carry my quill in my hat,
To show I am wholly castrated; [Page 62] For the rest of our Troops, perhaps they'l give 'em
Leave to spin in Boots, or serve their other occasions.
Enter Tysamnes with Statyra, Bassanes, Alvanes, Toxaris and Araxis.
Eum.
Here comes the King; we now shall be for
Action speedily.
Andr.
His looks seem troubl'd.
Tysam.
Our City taken on the Volga, and
Our Provisions, the Sinews of our Armies strength
Cut off before our eyes; nay more, inclos'd
By female powers—Can you be men and live
To this contempt?
Bass.
Spare your passion Sir.
Tysam.
I cannot, while I see I govern Souldiers
Scarce deserve the name of men, more fit,
By Heaven, to be converted to some other shape,
Or serve as Chamber Eunuchs to this female kind
Our Arms oppose.
Bass.
This stratagem of theirs
Was unexpected; in all my time of war,
I ne're was so surpriz'd.
Tysam.
Think, dear Bassanes,
How we may redeem some part of this dishonour.
Bass.
I judge the way must be to attacque
Their left wing with a brisk assault.
Tysam.
Be it thy command. Foscaris, Andrages,
Draxanes and Eumenes, be you assisting
In this enterprise with such Troops you lead.
Omn.
To our utmost, Royal Sir.
Bass.
And hope I shall soon give your Majesty
A good account of this attempt—Madam,
I have your happy wish.
Stat.
And more, my Prayers for your safety.
Tysam.
The other wing (my worthy Chiefs) I'le lead
To assist your valours.
Omn.
We all are ready with our Duties.
Tysam.
[Page 63]
And if our Swords cannot yet subdue these
Women Warriours; let them triumph,
And tell Dame Nature
'T was her fond erroneous act,
Entituled Man Superiour.
Stat.
Consider, Sir,
For my sake, as you love Statyra's being,
That have no small concern in every danger,
Threatens you.
Tysam.
'T is for thy sake I'de only live
To crown this day with victory.
Stat.
'T were too much hazard for my Love.
Tysam.
Thou would'st not have me tamely gaze upon
These Foes, and see thee pine for food?
Or yield our selves to this imperious womans will,
That may, perhaps, give Laws unwelcom to
Our Loves, or take thy Beauty Captive for
Her slavish Handmaid, whom but to circle thus,
Is joy to me above the world and conquest.
Stat.
Admit I intercede for some fair peace,
She is a Woman fam'd of Royal worth,
And cannot be so cruel you express.
Tysam.
I know thou would'st not save my life by
Womans mercy; besides, 'twould fright thy gentle
Person, to behold thy Sex in Armour,
And their breasts (while thine's Loves tender sphere)
Inclos'd in Ribs of Steel, with one cut off,
More furiously to wield their Martial Bows,
With other Warlike horrors to afflict thy eyes.
Stat.
I fear no danger, so I serve but yours.
Tysam.
Admit I leave thee in my Tent,
Attended with my best reserves of Force—
Enter an Officer.
What news?
Officer.
Your Army, Sir, is in outragious Mutiny
For Bread.
Alvan.
I look'd for this.
Tox.
[Page 64]
I fear as much the Consequence.
Tysam.
A sign they are sons of Cowardise
That cannot take it from their Women-foes,
Or make them knead us more.
Officer.
Your presence, Sir, may possibly allay
Their fierce disorder.
Tysam.
We'le see who dares not fight,
Or starve if we command it—or else
We'le look e'm dead—your hand my dearest—
This Mutiny we'le soon compose—
[Exeunt. He leads Statyra to his Tent, & exit with the rest.
Enter Foscaris, Andrages, Eumenes and Draxanes, disarm'd and led Prisoners by three Amazon Ladies and other Women holding their Spears at 'em.
Fosc.
Nay, good Lady Errants some mercy—
Eum.
As we are Souldiers—
1 Lady.
'Tis below our Amazon honour to afford it
To such Knights of Chivalry as you are.
Andr.
As we are Gentlemen of good Nature to your Sex.
Drax.
Or as you have had kindness to man.
Fosc.
Or for Loves sake, of which I have store at your
Service.
2 Lady.
You are Spirits indeed of Cupid.
Fosc.
I am more than an ordinary man that way,
And have Venus about me in abundance.
Enter Daranthe.
1 Lady.
Here comes our General.
2 Lady.
We must not further act without her.
Daran.
You have done bravely, valiant Ladies;
But where's their General Bassanes, who
Forc'd your Squadrons? the Queen would have been glad
To have led in triumph such a famous Chief.
1 Lady.
He fought his way with many wounds unto the
Volga; in whose rough streams we judge him drown'd.
Daran.
[Page 65]
The Queen will give his loss some pity—
For you Gentlemen, who have not been
Injurious to our Sex in practising
Your Scythian custom; the Queen proclaims
She'l think of mercy; and for such pris'ners
Who have Wives—
Fosc.
What will be our Fate?
[Aside.
Daran.
It is her Royal Pleasure
They be surrender'd to their wills—
I must attend and give her notice
Of your brave success.
[Ex. Daranthe.
Fosc.
'Twere best to be afore-hand with this Act
Of Grace—I humbly lay hold on your Queens mercy.
And.
And I, Madam.
Eum.
And I.
Drax.
And I.
Enter Melvissa and Clarina.
2 Lad.
Have none of you Wives in being, Gentlemen?
What say you, Sir?
Fosc.
Who I, Madam? I would not be so unfortunate
For a world; and would you
But espouse us to some of your Masculine
Generation, we'd get your Queen such Heroines.
Melv.
Dost hear how abominably these Creatures
Of our Loves dissemble?
[To Clar. aside.
Clar.
They are oblig'd, it seems, to
Change the complexion of their hearts.
Melv.
Let it be for life's sake, or love's, I'le have
My due acknowledgments—
Andr.
Do not own us, dear Wives,
We beseech you.
[Aside.
Melv.
How, not own our just proprieties?
Fosc.
As you are Women, and have mercy,
We are coming off, and on the fairest terms
Heart can wish—withdraw awhile,
And we'll be with you in a trice, and
Handle things kindly, as men and wives should do.
Melv.
[Page 66]
You shall excuse us, we'll reprieve you Our own way now.
Clar.
And for you, Sir, whose Conversion,
I hop'd, my better stars had wrought—
Fosc.
Alas! my sweetest, I love thee with a flame
As warm as thou can'st wish; but was forc'd to
Dissemble for some motives of danger,
Which I know thoul't pardon.
1 Lad.
'Tis fit we understand
Your business, Ladies.
2 Lad.
You are not Spies.—
Melv.
By your fair leaves,
We come to claim a pair of Husbands
By vertue of your Queens Proclamation.
Clar.
Of which, one of them had the good manners
To part with his Wife, witness my self.—
Omn.
How's this?
Andr.
What will become of us?
Fosc.
Or me, that have provok'd
Fate and Woman together?
Andr.
I am like to suffer under both, that must again
Endure the insupportable, and endless
Civil war of wedlock.
Fosc.
O, the star of Venus has had a strange influence
In our Horoscopes; there's no resisting destiny,
And she the Ascendant.
Andr.
Might I chuse, I had rather once more charge the
Amazonian Battel, and all the Viragoes
Of woman-kind together.
[The Ladies compass them in holding their Spears at them.]
Both Lad.
Shall we kill e'm to revenge your injuries?
Clar.
By no means, we beg their lives.
Melv.
And having thus cull'd out our Cocks,
I doubt not, but we shall manage the game
Advantagiously enough.
1 Lad.
You have e'm at your mercy.
Clar.
Thanks to your Queens.
Melv.
She has mine likewise in abundance Ladies— [Page 67] But for you Husbands.—
Fosc.
Nay, prethee we'll compose differences as you
Drax.
Now for our Capitulations.
[Drax. and E [...]
Eum.
If we do not make fair ones for our selves
With such Victors as these,
We may curse our Nativities.
Fosc.
What terms of composition, good sweet Wife?
Thou know'st I love thee above imagination.
Clar.
Perhaps I may give you fair quarter.
Fosc.
Let it be but in thine, and I will dye
Upon the spot, e're part with thee again;
I am thine now without a charm.
Clar.
I promise nothing, though you see I have took
Some pains for your safety.
Andr.
What says my Spouse?
Melv.
'Tis odds she'll proceed as occasion serves.
Andr.
Be not proud of thy victory, thou know'st
I have been a most submissive Husband.
Melv.
You'l soon know my conditions—
Andr.
And if they prove but gentle,
I am conquer'd happily—
1 Lad.
You will not leave our Camp presently?
Clar.
Not till the issue of this day be past.
2 Lad.
If you doubt obedience from your Husbands,
Command a Guard from us.
Fosc.
By no means Ladies,
We acknowledge an absolute Conquest.
Melv.
Otherwise, you know our Commission.
Clar.
Your servant, fair noble Warriours.
[Ex. Fosc. Clar. Andr. Melv.]
1 Lad.
The Queen.
Enter Mandana with Cydane and Renone.
Mand.
You have taken those fierce Militants
That did attempt to force their safeties
In despight of our bold powers.
2 Lad.
We have, most Royal Madam,
And in obedience to your great commands,
[Page 68] Have gratify'd two Ladies of the Enemies part,
By surrendring of their Husbands to their wills.
Mand.
I am glad my victory
Does give my name a Trophy in the
Obligation of my Sex; these men we war,
Have too injurious treated—But where's
The Prince Bassanes, their General?
1 Lad.
He forc'd his bold escape, if not drown'd
In passing of the Volga.
Mand.
We could have
Been content to have seen him made our Captive.
Renon.
And must have added
Glory to your Victory.
Cyd.
He much exprest himself your great Admirer.
Enter Messenger.
Mess.
Glad tidings, mighty Queen, the King and all
His power is now surrender'd to your General.
Mand.
I knew the streight we had reduc'd 'em to,
Would soon compel 'em—
And where's his fair Persian Mistress, Statyra?
Mess.
She is, besides some Pris'ners of note
Guarded by the valiant Moor.
Mand.
This Crowns our Conquest.
Enter Daranthe and Parisatis, with Tysamnes and Statyra, Araxis, Toxaris and Alvanes.
Daranthe, I must praise thy valour—
And all you my Women Souldiers
For this glorious day.
Daran.
We are honour'd that our duties
Serv'd your Greatness.
Mand.
But thine, my valiant Moor, that gives
Such noble emulation in thy worthy Deeds
To all, I know not how enough to magnifie,
But soon will raise thy merit to some higher
[Page 69] Trust, shall speak our great esteem, both of thy
Valour and fidelity.
Par.
You oblige the humblest of your Servants.
Mand.
The King's a gracious person.
[Looking on Tysam.
Par.
I fear too taking.
Mand.
Now, Mighty Sir?
Tysam.
Your pleasure, Madam?
Mand.
Is it not just, that I, who am the Mighty
Warriour, in my Sexes Cause,
Should frown thee dead?
Tysam.
You cannot look me out of life, nor would
I turn my head aside, though every beam
Of yours, were Darts of Basilisks, that dare
Behold you thus—
Mand.
You are resolute I find;
And would to Heaven your Queen were yet in being,
That she might witness my concern in her
Fair Cause; or from my power
Ask thee her Sacrifice,
Since thou hast been so much her Tyrant Lover.
Tysam.
My ingratitude to her great vertue
I acknowledge; though I meet all your rage
In pouring of revenge for her sake on my head;
And since she is no more, for which, Heaven knows,
How true I grieve, I would not live, but for
This Ladies sake.
[Looking on Statyra.
Mand.
Your new made Mistress—
Tysam.
And just possessor of my heart.
Mand.
She has strange fascination in her eyes,
For which—
[Aside.
Stat.
If you pronounce me guilty, speak my death;
Nay, I'le intreat it at your hand as royal mercy,
So you'l spare the King,
For whose great safety,
Had I many thousand lives, I'd humbly
Lay them, as my offering, at your feet.
Daran.
This Lady has a noble soul.
Par.
Too much the Kings I fear.
[Aside.
Mand.
[Page 70]
I have cause enough to bid thee dye,
But will not cloud the glory of this day
With Womans death; and wer't not for a sacred
Resolution of my soul, perhaps would grant
Thy Loves enjoyment; but I have now decreed—
Tysam.
If death, I am ready to embrace it.
Stat.
Oh speak some milder Accent! what can
Become a Womans soul, like yours, so much
As gracious mercy?
Mand.
My resolution's fixt irrevocable,
As when by Heaven's o're-ruling will, we guide
Our Justice: for know Tysamnes, I have vow'd
Thy life a glorious victim of my Conquest;
Nor has it been unusual in the Wars we make,
For such a day as this, to grace our Altars
With the best of Captives, of which I judge
None worthy, like thy self.
Stat.
You will not be divinely cruel?
Mand.
I'le hear no more—
Zeriffa—take these pris'ners to thy custody;
Thy Complexion is most fit to serve this Trust;
And be sure you have a watchful eye
Upon this Lady; the rest, perhaps,
Shall find our mercy.
Par.
I joy this trust.
Tysam.
Grieve not, Statyra, since I dye thy Lover.
Stat.
And might I bleed upon the Altar with you,
'Twere then my Loves true Sacrifice.
Mand.
Thus far this day propitious does appear,
But from the end great Acts their Crowns must wear.
[Ex. Omnes.

ACT V. SCENE I.

Enter Mandana and Parisatis.
Mand.
HOw bears Tysamnes his restraint, and our
Declar'd resolves? I know they needs
Must bow his lofty heart.
Par.
As unconcern'd as Infants sleep,
Or as the Man you'd chuse the object of
Your mercy ought to be—nay more.—
Mand.
What means that more?
Par.
You are a Woman.
Mand.
But a Conquerour.
Par.
Had I like power.
Mand.
What then?
Par.
I'd bid him live at least.
Mand.
Thou would'st not have me love him?
Par.
No by my life—
Though 'twere a gracious Act to Heaven, if you
Vouchsafe him mercy; since he's oblig'd to fair
Statyra's Love; you else will kill two hearts at once.
Mand.
Away with this fond pity;
I have fix't my Justice
Par.
Your pleasure Madam.
Mand.
Bring forth the King,
I'le make him know it.
Par.
I am all confusion.
[Ex. Parisatis.
Mand.
This Moor is brave and loyal; my Mother once
Had such a Lady near her person, she
Would commend above what Faith can reach.
Enter Parisatis with Tysamnes.
Zeriffa! admit none to our presence.
Par.
I shall not—but by your leave Queen
[Page 72] Will here observe—
[Pvr. Stands aside.
Mand.
I hear, Tysamnes,
You contemn the vow I've made,
Nor does my eye
Discern other then pleasing calms upon
The brow you seem to wear.
Tysam.
Such as become a King,
And every vulgar man, when made a Sacrifice
To womans passion—
Mand.
Take heed, Sir, how
You entertain a Summer in your hopes,
Or slight the Justice I decree.
Tysam.
What mean you, Madam?
Alas! I look'd to meet the Miter'd Priest,
The Altar fixt, where I should bleed your Victim,
And if you superscribe it
With my crimes of Love,
Which caus'd at once my Parisatis death,
And fair Statyra's tears, I'le call it justice,
And due expiation of my sins to Heaven.
Mand.
I'le soon my self convey you to the
Altar I intend—
Par.
What means the Queen?
[Aside.
Mand.
Or say I bid thee live?
Tysam.
'Twere then a mercy greater then I crave,
Or merit.
Mand.
I'd have thee judge it more.
Par.
'Tis love most certain.
[Aside.
Mand.
What think you of this look?
[She smiles.
Tysam.
'Tis somewhat gentler then I did expect.
Mand.
And what of this?
[Smiles again.
Tysam.
It seems more kind then common smile.
Mand.
Is it not welcom to thy heart?
Tysam.
'Twere too much to bestow such beams on me,
And gives me greater wonder, then should Lights Orb
Contract its glory to the Artick Pole,
To quicken there some frozen spot of earth.
Mand.
He does perceive—thy pardon now is written
[Page 73] In my heart—Zeriffa
Enter Parisatis.
See thou respect Tysamnes
Above observance of a Pris'ner; I have
Some motives of a near concern require it.
[Ex. Mandana.
Par.
Is this your vow, oh Parisatis?
Didst thou walk as undiscern'd as Ghosts
That cloath themselves in bodies of the Air;
This must affright thee more, then timorous hearts
Scar'd with such pale horrors—
Admit, Sir, I congratulate this Grace.
Tysam.
'Twas unexpected—
And I with glader eyes could have beheld
Thee made my deaths black Hand-maid.
Par.
You do not slight the Queen, that with her
Gracious beams of mercy quickens you to live?
Nay more, if I discern that have some trust
From her fair thoughts, is giving of her self
A conquest to your Love—methinks
This should awake your apprehension,
Tysam.
It does! but find my self
Unshaken to Statyra, and could have wish'd
Your Queens more rigid vow were unrepeal'd,
That I might bleed her Sacrifice.
Par.
She is your Crime,
And therefore does deserve to be your Fate,
Or else embrace the same with her.
Tysam.
Though thy dark visage is most fit to be
The messenger of death and all it's horrors,
I may enquire what cause incites thee
To appear thus cruel.
Par.
It breaks like clearest justice
From my Soul, that am oblig'd to be
Your Queens Revenger—
Tysam.
Thou art not sent from t'other world
To be my Executioner, where she's adorn'd
With Crowns and smiles of Angels, still interceding
My forgiveness.
Par.
[Page 74]
I have griev'd his Soul too much,
Pardon me, Sir, I was too bold to urge
Your penitence.
[Aside.
Tysam.
It proves thee worthy.
Par.
One word and I have done; were your Queen living?
Nay more, Sir, wer't soon as manifest, she
Hazarded her life, repriev'd on purpose
For your safety, would you receive her
To your embrace and love?
Tysam.
She is too dear to Heaven
To be given thence; and Stars which frown'd upon
That fatal Act, already have enroll'd her
In their first of bright Societies—
But this is all thy dream.
Par.
Believe it such—
Yet so far I dare represent her self,
As to assure you, for her sake, I'le dye
To purchase your just freedom—
Let this tear confirm you, as 'twere shed from her.
Enter Statyra.
[Ex. Parisatis.
Statyra Sir.
Tysam.
The carriage of this Moor
Is honours riddle to my thoughts—
Oh my Statyra! I have yet a hope of thy
Enjoyment.
Stat.
Does the Queen Incline to mercy?
Tysam.
She has receded from her vow.
Stat.
That's happy—
And more cruel in decree, seeks
To divide my soul from thine—
Thou understand'st me?
Stat.
I do too sadly—
Tysam.
But this Moor, employ'd by Heaven
To be a Guardian of our Loves, or as
The night, or Hymen gave her this complexion
To be a sober guide unto his rights,
Devotes her self to serve our safeties.
Stat.
This means of happiness was above my hope,
[Page 75] While through each vein of mine, my blood had ebbings
From my heart, in apprehension of your dangers;
Nor did I view her with less horror,
Conceiving her the Queens most cruel instrument.
Tysam.
I thought her so, but she has given me such
Assurance of her Faith and Love, that had
Thy beauteous figure took a veil like her,
Or were my Parisatis
Represented such, I would not have expected
A more strict concern for me.
Stat.
It seems too much
To credit from a stranger, or else 'tis but
Loves kinder Labyrinth.
Enter Parisatis.
Tysam.
She's here—salute her
With thy kindest beams, she does deserve
Our near regards.
Stat.
Madam, the King has given me such a character
Of your worth, as I must beg to joyn
Acknowledgments with his.
Par.
I'le venture all that's dear to serve him,
And your vertue; but this is not a time
For Words: Things call to action—
Please you withdraw.
[Ex. Tysam. Stat.
Enter Draxanes.
Draxanes come?
Drax.
I hope most happily.
Par.
And hast thou found him?
Drax.
Yes, Madam, and have brought him.
Par.
This place is safe from ears—wait him to me.
[Ex. Drax.
If fortune be not peevish now, the Scene
I have laid shall Crown my Acts.
Enter Bassanes disguis'd.
I am wondrous glad to see thee live.
Bass.
And I like to some man that's
Struck with Extasies of joy,
Could even resign my soul, as thus
I kiss the ground I tread, in adoration [Page 76] Of your being here, when fear'd beyond a doubt
You had snatch'd your self away, to make its
Bosom in your grave more sacred.
Par.
Draxanes told thee all?
Bass.
He did Madam,
As I was levying of Recruits to free the King
From this restraint he suffers here.
Par.
Then we'll spare further circumstance,
And only know I have prepar'd to do him
Signal service; for which end, I took this Cloud,
Either to dye unknown, or live a means
Of his lov'd preservation.
Bass.
This deed must ravish Men and Angels
To express; who must admire at once
Your most heroick constancy and vertue.
Par.
Enough Bassanes, and pardon me, that I
Sent my summons to joyn thee as companion
In the dangers I embrace.
Bass.
You shall command
My utmost peril, though every man I meet
Could look me into Atoms.
Par.
And know to my
More cruel Fate, the King not only has
A Mistress in Statyra, but the Queen
Mandana, his fair Conquerour, has vow'd
Him for her own enjoyment.
Bass.
What can be thought on
To resist this high injustice?
Par.
I have resolv'd upon the means, in which
I'le use thy Conduct, not more approv'd to act,
Then sage in resolution; nor do I doubt
The instruments we'll use, are less then cordial,
To embrace the end we shall propose, which must
Be swift in execution.
Bass.
I would not waste a minute e're I act to serve it.
Par.
The Guards are here at my devotion, besides
A considerable number of our bravest Officers,
By the Queen Mandana, set at liberty.
Bass.
[Page 77]
They may be serviceable to your design.
Par.
The honour of their King obliges it—
Within we'll debate more at large particulars.
[Exeunt.
Enter Toxaris, Alvanes, Araxis.
Tox.
Well Gallants, we are all Freemen now.
Alv.
'Tis a seasonable mercy to us Courtiers,
Not us'd to this kind of belly duty;
We otherwise must have been living Anatomies
By this time.
Arax.
And so perhaps Metamorphiz'd
Into starv'd Ghosts, to walk with hideous
Lamentations these Fields of Victory.
Tox.
I do not think
All th' Infernal Region can fright these
Victrices, should they appear in Arms,
There's not an Image of Mars, but does raise
Their fury above Miracle.
Alv.
And yet
For all their being thus couragious and hardy
(Which must be acknowledg'd more then wonder
In their soft kind) they are refin'd as our Ladies
Of the best converse; and as modishly witty
As any she Platonick living—
Arax.
If Venus make no Captives in this shape
Of Mars, may her Son ne're more wear Quiver.
Enter Eumenes.
Eum.
Never men enfranchis'd on such terms
As we are, for which this great and fair
Warriour deserves a Jubilee.
Tox.
She's highly gracious.
Eum.
And like the Sun diffusive in her beams;
I have been so Caress'd by our fair Conquerours,
Under several Titles and Commands, as if they'd
Invite us shortly to match by Regiments,
And so at last joyn Armies! what a day
Of Hymen would that be?
Alv.
[Page 78]
Could but our King be freed
On royal terms, 'twould adde yet
Glory to this Queens great Acts.
Eum.
Some did interpret
Favourably, when she late vow'd him
To a sad destiny.
Arax.
As how?
Eum.
As men should construe in like case, a Womans vow.
Tox.
I am yet to learn, there's nothing but
Riddle in the whole Sex.
Eum.
'Tis said that Love's the Oedipus,
And has resolv'd it, to whose soft Altars
She has given the King some beams of invitation.
Alv.
But that may adde unto his greater peril,
Being so much devoted to Statyra,
That his heart is Ice to other flame.
Arax.
Heaven guide things for the best!
Tox.
Where did you leave Draxanes?
He shares of this Grace I hope?
Eum.
Yes, and is advanc'd to no small favour.—
Tox.
Not with the Queen?
Eum.
No, but what's a step to't,
He is deep in the Moors;
I left him in close Conference with her.
Alv.
That Moor carries the stream indeed of Grace:
Our King committed to her trust with his beauteous Mistriss.
Arax.
But what to judge her.
Eum.
She bears a Soul of brightest temperament;
As if that providence had found a place
Elsewhere for her Nativity; or as she wore
An Ethiops Cloudy Veil, from Art, not Nature.
Enter Foscaris leading Clarina, and Andrages Melvissa.
Tox.
Foscaris and Andrages come off thus
With their Wives! this must conclude
A strange day of Womans Victory.
Fosc.
[Page 79]
I have paid my Arrears
Of Love, I hope to purpose; we are
Reconcil'd, and have embrac'd, and so forth Gentlemen.
Clar.
You have so.
Fosc.
And can bill like Doves now.
Clar.
Not too much, I beseech you, lest you fall
Into a surfeit of Love again; too much
Of the honey of Wedlock is not good
For your palate.
Eum.
We joy your Loves.
Fosc.
If any be unkind henceforth to his Spouse,
May he suffer my penance; there's some
Mystery behind, which you shall all know
At leisure: in the Interim, I acknowledge
My happiness, from you Lady.
Melv.
I am glad it was in my power to serve
Your felicity in Clarina's.
Andr.
And I rejoyce a kind Wife too, Gentlemen.
Melv.
But take heed you don't presume;
You know my power when I please.
Tox.
These Women Conquerours are strangely noble
Clar.
We own our Husbands from their mercy.
Andr.
And we our freedoms.
Fosc.
Souldiers in every vein Gentlemen,
And can drink a smart health or two as they
Discourse of Arms—and would they yield
Reasonable obedience to mankind, I'd wish
You all to match amongst them, they'd spirit
Flesh and blood indeed.
Alv.
I long to be doing.
Arax.
And I as much.
Tox.
Could but the King come off nobly.
Fosc.
He must, if the Queen do not once more
Change her vow.
Alv.
No news yet of the General Bassanes?
Eum.
He vanish'd in a storm of darts! but what
His fate is Heaven knows.
[Page 80]
Enter Draxanes.
Drax.
A word in private.
[Whispers to Eumenes who de­liver it to one another.
Eum.
Is't possible?—
Drax.
Rely your faiths on mine.
Tox.
We are confirm'd.
Melv.
You may admit us to Council,
Wives should partake their Husbands secrets.
Andr.
You shall, you shall.
Fosc.
And know we have wondrous things in hand.
Clar.
If honourable, I'le venture all that's dear
To serve it.
Melv.
And I as far engage.
Fosc.
Such as must fill your bosoms full of joy—
Within more of particulars.
[Ex. Omnes.
Enter Mandana, Daranthe, Cydane, Renone, and others attending.
Mand.
We have given our mercy to the King.
Daran.
'Twas gracious like your self.—
Mand.
Nor will I blush to own
His Graces merit an esteem from us.
Cyd.
The Queen is surely smitten with her great Captive?
Renon.
Beyond a doubt.
Mand.
Bring forth the King Cydane.
[Ex. Cydane.
We'll treat him nobler yet, and make him joy
This day of Womens conquest.
Enter Cydane.
Cyd.
Madam! the King's withdrawn.
Mand.
How?
Cyd.
Or else escap'd.
Mand.
Blister'd be thy tongue
That brings such tidings to my heart—
Where is the Moor?
Cyd.
Not to be found.
Enter Statyra.
Mand.
Her black Soul shall take a gloomy flight
To the other world for this.
Stat.
I answer for her trust.
Mand.
[Page 81]
Thy life shall bear hers company.
Stat.
I am glad
To yield it up a Victim to your wrath,
Since that must raise a Trophy to my Love;
Where every Virgin of a faith like mine,
Will drop a tear to give my memory
A name, shall blast the glory of your Conquest.
Mand.
Away with this fond woman; it is an Ague
To my blood to hear her reason thus.
[As they offer to carry her off.
Enter Bassanes disguis'd, with Foscaris, Andrages, Drax. Eum. Tox. Alv. Arax. and others arm'd.
Bass.
Hold and hear me first.
Mand.
How! men in Arms before our presence?
Have we no Guard there?—
Bass.
None but what I have plac'd;
And were your Women chang'd to Sons of Mars,
Nay, Cadmus fiercer issue joyn'd to them,
When ripen'd first to horror of mankind,
As the earth trembling did contain their roots;
This Sword of mine should mow 'em down
To smooth the path I lead.
Mand.
A combination of these humane things
So late our Arms reduc'd—
Methinks they should convert to nothing
From a look of mine; or I lose Majesty.
Daran.
This surprisal was beyond the reach of thought.
Renon.
'Tis most ignoble.
Mand.
And thou that seem'st an object
Fit to guide such base ingratitude,
What shall I call thee? Traytor?
Bass.
A name that had an honour for your Soul,
That fill'd no less the world with wonders;
And lest your Womens frailty should stain
The brightness of your noble Deeds,
I thought it justice to resist your will,
Though I met Seas of danger in the act.
Mand.
[Page 82]
Bold and Impudent!
Bass.
I must be plainer,
Do you not love the King?
Mand.
Suppose it granted—
Bass.
Heaven does not—
And think not, Madam, that my blood,
Though it bears fire of honour in each vein,
But 'tis as cold to treachery; nor does the Cause
That I maintain, less then command, without
An arm of force—
This Lady in her own fair right, methinks,
Should move you.
[To Statyra.
Stat.
May Heaven reward thy vertue!
Mand.
She is the Kings belov'd; but I have won
Him mine by Arms.
Bass.
And therefore nobler conquest
To subdue your self: The Bays you wear
In triumph, else must wither on your brow,
Where Majesty and Beauties lustre twine
To make one Excellence.
Stat.
What providence has Blest me with this Advocate?
Renon.
I have seen a face resembles that.
[Pulls off his Beard and Patches.
Daran.
The Queen a little alters.
Mand.
It must be he.
Bass.
Behold then, Royal Madam, this face
Made but my own dark copy by disguise,
Thus clear'd to own it's just original.
Mand.
Bassanes living?
Bass.
In which I wear
A mirror of my heart, that does without
A flattery express a Soul that highly
Honours yours, though it has seem'd divested
Of those Charms in making this reflection
On your justice, which here is one most
Powerful to incline.
[To Parisatis.
Enter Parisatis attended by Clarina and Melvissa.
Mand.
What is this Lady?
Cyd.
[Page 83]
The Queen Parisatis, Madam.
Mand.
It cannot be;
A meer imposture to abuse me.
Renon.
We must avow 'tis she.
Mand.
I am all wonder.
Stat.
And I no less rejoyce to see you live;
I hope you'l pardon, that I claim'd an interest
In your Kings affection, when 'twas assur'd
You had no Being in the world.
Par.
And I more humbly beg one here;
Nor shall it e're be told that Parisatis
Walk'd in that dark Cloud (though it vail'd her
Actings for preservation of the life and love
Of her Tysamnes) to live, your trust abus'd,
Without a pardon from your lips.
Daran.
This Woman's brave.
Par.
Nor shall you loose, besides,
One fruit of victory.
Mand.
You were the Moor then?
Par.
The same, most Royal Madam—
And if you are my Subjects, prostrate
Your selves and swords, with me, at these
Majestick feet.
[Kneels.
Mand.
This is a Conquest happier then all;
Nor shall e're Woman boast she had the better
Of Mandana's honour—Madam, you have
Forgiveness—take up your weapons worthy Souldiers.
[To Parisatis.
Bass.
You are highly gracious.
Mand.
Where is the King?
Par.
'Twas but given out he had escap'd.
Mand.
Bassanes, you'l attend him to us.
Enter Tysamnes whispering Bassanes, Foscaris, Andr. Tox. Alv. Arax. Drax. Eumenes.
Tysam.
Do I then live to be thus happy in
Your grace and pardon?
Mand.
Your Queen has conquer'd me Tysamnes,
[Page 84] After the power of your Arms was made
My valour's glory; nor did the darts of Love,
Which I confess, made some impression here,
[Pointing to her breast.
Leave wounds but to be heal'd more happily—
I vow'd you, Sir, to love.
Par.
No change I hope.
[Aside.
Mand.
And thus will make your offering here;
She is a Jewel of a Crown indeed.
[Presents him to the Queen.
Tysam.
I take her on my knees—
She is too great a blessing, thus restor'd
[Kneels.
To my embrace, to be with less devotion own'd
From Heaven, imploring (as I kneel) thy pardon.
Par.
You have it Sir, though not a gift, where you
Command a duty; which when most passive
In a Wife, does but refine the gold of Vertue.
Tysam.
Why didst thou take this Cloud?
Par.
To dye unknown, or serve your safety.
Daran.
A most heroick constancy.
Tysam.
Thy vertue's richer Then the world's vast globe, were it
Converted to one purest Diamond.
Mand.
And does as far exceed what story can relate.
Tysam.
But I have yet a load of mercy here
To beg, my crime of Love to thee Statyra,
Which else must cloud this day of comforts,
And bring eternal night upon my soul.
Stat.
Though I have lost an expectation of
My greatest bliss in your enjoyment,
That in warm sighs might soon dissolve
A Virgins heart like mine, yet I can feel
No want of happiness, since I behold
Your Souls, that have already mingl'd joys,
Meet thus, and kiss each other.
Tysam.
Heaven must reward thy goodness.
Par.
And my for ever obligation.
Mand.
This days example gives to Love
Such brave repute, that I who both have fought,
And men commanded, could even yield
[Page 85] To hold my Scepter from obedience.
Tysam.
Here is a Prince within your eye (I hope
More near your heart) that might deserve
To rule a Throne like yours.
Mand.
I know him noble.
Bass.
And one, most Royal Madam, that owns
A soul, you have an interest to command
E're since I first beheld the glory of your charms:
Pardon me, I now avow it, that rather
To express my wonder of your vertue,
Should by an humble distance still admire.
Mand.
'Tis in my power to bring you nearer:
Bassanes is a Prince may well become
An Empress of the world's great choice; and were
Mandana such, she would not think her Love
Or Greatness stoop'd to match with thine.
Bass.
You make me more then happy.
Mand.
And I that honour Arms, and thy fam'd Deeds
In War, will call it noblest triumph
To yield thy Love a victory o're mine.
Bass.
This bounty stream's so powerful on my heart,
That I may fear it's guide, in such a Sea
Of joys you bring.
Mand.
I am yours for ever, dear Bassanes.
Drax.
This day surpasses wonder.
Fosc.
I knew it must conclude with some
Extraordinary Love-miracle besides my own.
[Aside.
Mand.
Daranthe! we must now no more make war,
I have match'd a Souldier.
Bass.
One that will live and dye your just admirer.
Mand.
And Women, here divest
Your selves of Arms with me.
[They take off their Arms.
Dar. Ren. Cyd.
We all obey your Majesty.
Mand.
And let your conquests henceforth be to love,
And give Men sole supremacy—
I hope our Kingdoms shall unite in making
[To Tysamnes.
Laws may fit each Sexes duty.
Tysam.
I am oblig'd for Parisatis sake
[Page 86] To make Decrees, no arbitrary will
Of man shall henceforth e're reject a Wife.
Mand.
Our Crowns will have a blessed union then—
What pattern shall we take?
Tysam.
Such as the world
With best consent does practise.
Bass.
Or what's most
Laudable, the form of happy England.
Mand.
It has been most approv'd.
Par.
Now Ladies, you are all well pleas'd to see
This peace that smiles upon your Loves, and gives
Both Sexes with our Crowns, such happiness.
Clar.
A welcom joy.
Melv.
We now can call our Husbands
Ours by lawful duty.
Andr.
I am glad to hear that word.
Fosc.
And I to be secur'd thus; I was in no small
Apprehension, this female victory
Might have imporw'd them to part with us;
What a mockery of Love's Magick had I been then?
Mand.
My Warriours, you will all take Husbands now?
Here are men fit to match your spirits.
Daran.
Your great example must invite it.
Tysam.
What shall this day do for thee fair Statyra?
The bounty of thy soul deserves a recompence
Above what tongue can speak, that spreads
A volume of thy goodness, fit only
For the eye of Heaven to read.
Stat.
And thither I'le devote my love,
Though while I live, no day shall pass without
A contemplation of your happiness.
Mand.
You will not soon depart?
Par.
For Parisatis sake you must not.
Stat.
'Tis my ambition first to fill an humble place
In your bright train of triumphs.
Tysam.
For which thou dost deserve a Chariot
Of Celestial substance,
Mov'd by the wings of Seraphims;
[Page 87] And every Virgin of most noble soul,
Attending thee with Songs of Raptures;
The Muses (as fair-Hand-maids to thy vertue)
Their best of Poets should inspire.
Stat.
You too much honour my small merits.
Bass.
This day does claim a glory from your worth,
And next my just devotion here—my heart
[To Mandana.
Shall keep an Altar sacred to Parisatis
Constant love and praise, with yours.
Stat.
And mine no less
Shall speak Bassane's fame.
Par.
I'le be your Rival Madam, there—
That am oblig'd unto this noble Prince
[To Bassanes.
By highest gratitude.
Tysam.
And I above expression thine.
[To Bassanes.
Mand.
Tysamnes with your Queen must lead
The way unto our joys—
And Women hence from us this pattern take,
Love, and obedience, your best conquests make.
Ex. Omnes.

Epilogue Spoken by the Queen of Amazon.

WE Amazons did here unconquer'd yield,
And nobly too, when Love had gain'd the Field,
Against whose Darts, what Woman wears ashield?
This War our Poet taught us by his Pen,
But 'twas to be such Conqueresses then,
As you ought, Ladies, when you Captive Men.
Nor will we doubt if you protect our fear,
Though gainst our Gonquest Criticks shall make War,
Such Foes no Amazons e're met with here.
Besides the stratagems you Gallants know,
Our Plays defeat and worse our Women too,
A Miss that's fine we cannot keep for you.
Then Gentlemen, since Love is much your way,
Be well advis'd how y'are unkind to day,
Lest we defie all such who damn our Play.
Our Poet needs not apprehend what right
You Wits will do him, or your factions spite,
That's their concern who do for Money write.
But with the Actors you may deal far worse,
For if you damn this Play, 'tis half their Curse,
Considering how its charge has plagu'd their Purse.
Which if you do, I'le tell you what they say,
They'l venture no more cost upon a Play,
You shill have Parce good store a cheaper way.
FINIS.

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