THE Successfull Straingers A Tragi-Comedy: Acted by their Majesties Servants, AT THE Theatre Royal,
WRITTEN By WILLIAM MOVNTFORT.
Licensed and Entred according to Order.
LONDON, Printed for James Blackwell, at Bernards-Inn-Gate, Holbourn; and Sold by Randal Taylor near Stationers-Hall. 1690.
To the Right Honourable THOMAS WHARTON, Comptroller of his Majesties Houshold, and one of his Majesties most Honourable Privy Council.
I Know Addresses of this Nature are commonly founded on Flattery; and when Interest guides the Pen, (without a just esteem free from a Mercenary end) 'tis hard to avoid it. 'Tis easier to be an Author then a Judge, and harder to be Impartial in Commendation then either: For where the known verity of the Character proves its Title to Applause, the Nicety is so great, that the Admirer must approach with such a decent Respect, that the Patron may not have more or less praise then is requisite, and then the Writer may defie Censure.
I know not which is the greatest Pleasure in others, That of receiving Favours, or acknowledging of 'em; But in me the latter exceeds the first. And as your Honour was never backward in serving the poorest Petitioner, I hope you will not be shye of receiving the thanks of your humblest Admirer.
[Page] It has been the greatest part of your Satisfaction to be in Power to serve your Friends; nor is it possible any Advantage or Preferment could corrupt you into the forgetfulness of 'em. All your Favours come from you so easie, so free from State, or Expectation of Attendance from those you assist, that a man would almost wish to want, only to be obliged by so much goodness.
What you now possess was accepted for the benefit of the Publick, not the Profit of the Employment: And the People are safest when the Affairs of the Nation are manag'd by those who are above Bribes, and have not their Fortunes to make out of 'em.
Much more may be said, but the World is so very sensible of the Honour, Generosity, and Worthiness, which attend you, That my weak Panegirick would sound like a Tale ill and twice told to a Person who had both heard, and could deliver it better. I only wish I may never lose the Happiness I now enjoy, in subscribing my self
THE Preface to the Reader.
IT has been a hard matter for the most Celebrated Pens to please all humours; The best of Writers have err'd, therefore the worst may the better be excused. All young Trees are allowed time to bear, and a poor Soyl with diligence and care, has by degrees Rewarded the pains of the Husband-man. I am not unsensible of my Imperfections, nor of the necessary Assistances I want in writing: In the first place, I must confess I am no Schollar, which renders me Incapable of stealing from Greek and Latin Authors, as the better Learned have done; the dressing of an old Thought in new Words, is an Excellency I should be ashamed of, could I do it to Perfection. A silver Tankard may be melted down, and work'd up into a Cup with Ears, nay, fine figures engrav'd upon it too, yet the mettle's the same, though the fashion be alter'd.
I have a natural Inclination to Poetry, which was born and not bred in me; I endeavour to do well, but have not Learning enough to be positive it is so; yet my Industry should not be despised, when I confess my weakness; But the Town are as unwilling to encourage a young Author, as the Play house a young Actor; well, time may work Miracles; I am sensible if Dr. Busby had slighted all his Junior Block-heads, scarce Divinity or Poetry had arriv'd to that unexpected Perfection as is now extant.
I know I have a great many Enemies, but why they are so, is more than they know, I cannot remember any person I ever injur'd willingly: If my opinion be Obnoxious to some, why, that I must account for Above. And 'tis very hard I may not [Page] enjoy it here, when my side's uppermost; and yet those who are of a contrary mind, are allowed theirs quietly. I thought I had been beneath their scorn, but I find their malice excuses none.
I have heard a Judge (who has writ, but was advis'd not to expose it) say there was scarce a Poet left worth hanging, but I wish those that are, had their Deserts; my Comedy in the Play probably is not so Light, nor the serious part of it so heavily managed as it ought to be, yet the Masters of the Play-house lost nothing by it, nor will the Printer I hope, though it sells for Twelve Pence.
Well, to shew you I am an encourager of Poetry, I have Printed some verses, which but for my good nature, might have been buried in Oblivion; but I think 'tis pitty a Style so Elegant (attended with such Prodigious Fancy) should be lost: They were sent me from an unknown hand by the way of Instruction.
That last Rhime I think is Admirable, though if he had had Stairs to his Brains, it might have chim'd as well. I dont know that I meddle with any State Affairs in my Play; and for Satyr, I'll swear he has found out what I never meant.
Perhaps these verses may seem a little gross, but they are dismal severe: And I have charity to believe they were writ off hand, for really as Mr. Bays says, I dont believe when the Person invented 'em, he ever troubled his head about it: I wonder if this Gentleman cost Omnipotence a second thought, if he did, I have heard second thoughts are best; and I cannot help saying it cost Omnipotence its best thoughts, how to make one of the worst Poets.
Here is another facetious piece as Ironically meant, as the former was seriously design'd; it was sent me as from a Woman, to make it go down the glibber; and I think▪ I could not do the Author justice (any other way) but in Printing it.
[Page] Now I am not at all concern'd at this, nor do, or did I ever write for Fame: And when I chance to write again, (as indeed all my Works are hab nab at a Venture) if the Town will be as kind to my next third day, as they were to my last, I shall leave my Poetry to the utmost Severity of their Censure, and end with an approv'd Saying, If I have their Money, much good may do them with their Jests.
Dramatis Personae.
- DON Carlos, a haughty Spaniard, in Love with Dorothea, but married to Biancha at last. Mr. Williams.
- Silvio, a stranger in Love with Dorothea. Mr. Mountfort.
- Antonio, Brother to Silvio, the other stranger in Love with Feliciana. Mr. Powel.
- Don Lopez, a Rich old covetous Spaniard; Father to Feliciana and Dorothea. Mr. Nokes.
- Don Francisco, an old Spaniard, Father to Don Carlos▪ Mr. Lee.
- Don Pedro, Father to Biancha. Mr. Bright.
- Guzman, Serv. to Carlos, and intriegues with Farmosa. Mr. Vnderhill.
- Sancho, Serv. to Silvio, an English-man pick't up in England. Mr. Bowen.
- WOMEN.
- Dorothea, in a manner engaged to Carlos, but in Love with Silvio. Mrs. Knight.
- Feliciana, her sister in Love with Antonio. Mrs. Mountfort.
- Farmosa, Woman to Dorothea. Mrs. Corey.
- Biancha in Love with Carlos. Mrs. Bracegirdle.
- A Neice to Don Pedro. Mrs. Miles.
- Dons, Attendants, Fidlers, Bravo's, &c.
SCENE Sevill.
PROLOGUE.
The First ACT.
SCENE I. A Garden.
And I'le warrant she's ready for thee boy, or the Woman has fail'd her, thy Mother was ready for me at all times, nay sometimes readier then I; but not till I was Five and Forty by the Champion of Spain.
Are you for Church Sir?
No I leave the Church for such young Fellows as you are, you have debauch'd it so among you that Heav'n has forsook it.
Forsook Church Sir, why where does it inhabit then?
Where? why in Sanctified thoughts, Holy and Private Closets, Strict and devout living.
Why is not the Church Sanctifyed, holy, strict, and devout?
The Church, ay Sir, but what are the Congregations watchers of Eyes, Dressing admirers, Insinuating Leerers, Hypocritical Fawners, Debauching Gallants, bribe-taking Servants, promising bawds, Mothers that sell their Childrens, Children that cheat their Mothers, Fluttering Courtiers, Strutting Merchants, Affected Gay-Fops, Baboones of fifty mimiking Apes of five and twenty, proud Heiresses, Fortune-Plundering Soldiers, Hectoring Bravo's, Coy-seeming Maids, Leud wives, Painted Widdows, and pocky Whores by St. Iago.
I'le take my Mistress Sir from such ill Company as soon as I can.
Well said, do boy, marry her quickly, the sooner the better; thou may'st loose her yet, she may be Stole in the mumbling of a Pater-Noster, or the humming of an Amen; there are perking, prinking, Dancing Finicall Rogues a purpose for such business.
O my Spleen stifles me at his chance saying.
By St Iago there's the Father of thy Mistriss, he's come about the Agreement for the Marriage; Here let him in, take the Key of the Garden door with thee.
O for a key to unlock his Daughters Soul: If she be false, this Justice I will have to see the curst occasion in his Grave.
Now concerning this match, I have a Confounded old Rogue to deal with; He has no more Conscience then a Soldier in free Quarter; And as fond of his money as a Priest of a fresh Convert; As proud as a Darling Statesman, as Positive as an Affected Wit, as Sullen as neglected merit, and more troublesome, if possible, then the Civil Law. It has cost me the Devill and all to maintain this Amour: A confounded Extravagant Rogue of a Son too, has presented her profusely—A Pox of her pride, It has cost me 5000 Crowns the wooing of her. By St. Iago, in England a Man might have layn with the whole Nation for half the money.
I am indifferent warm with walking hither, if it please you let's sit.
With all my heart—within there?
[Page 5] Give us some Chocolate, Brother that must be, to our Affairs concerning our Children.
Why truly the charge of Children is of great concern, of mighty moment Brother, and Girles more chargeable, more dangerous, and much more troublesome then Boys: you I think have but one Son; ah happy man, you're in no fear for his miscarriage, he can't Scandalize a Family so much as a Daughter.
He can't be got with Child indeed, but for every thing else, I think boys are full as troublesome: they're either given to Fighting, Drinking, Gaming, or Whoring; If they're given to Fighting, Fifty to one but they're kill'd, and a hundred to one but in a Whores quarrell; then probable the name of a Family is lost by it; if to Drinking, why, if 'tis bad Wine it flings 'em into a feaver, which is damnable expensive, there's Doctors and Apothecaries, Rogues that get a Livelyhood by destroying of others; and kill or cure, they must be paid: which is very hard upon the Subject; If to Gaming, why, If he has Indulgent Parents he's undone for ever, and if to Whoring, he may rot with the Pox.
Ah! That Pox Brother, is almost Epedemicall; They say 'twas begot by an Italian on a French Woman, sent to Nurse into England, and brought hither by some Cavaliers in the time of the late Civil Wars.
Why 'tis a burning shame, a Crying Sin Brother, and they dye (they say) in greater numbers then they recover.
Why 'tis great pitty there is not an Order Instituted by the Government here among Physitians, No Cure, No Money.
By Esculapius they'd starve in a month then, you'd see a greater havock amongst them then ever they made among us. Well, but to our Children:
Why, ay Seignior, to come to the Point. You know I have two Daughters, they must both be provided for, indeed if my daughter Filly had dyed of her disaster, I could have made your Sons Mistriss a much better Fortune.
Why, I tell you what I design'd by my young Son, whom I lost at Sea, Octavio; had he liv'd, and I dy'd before him, I would never have robb'd the Eldest; For I think it a Sin unpardonable: I would have left him Sole Governour of his Brother, and natural honour would have made him provide for him.
Ay, but natural honour will not do in my Case: A Sister can't do like a Brother; For when once she's Married, the Power is lost, and tho' she has Inclinations to be Gen'rous, the Husband does often deny it.
I dare swear for my boy Carlos, my dear boy Carlos would let her want nothing.
That might send her out of the World.
If you will settle 2000 Crowns per Annum on your Son; and make my Daughter a Joynture of 500 Crowns per annum, I will give him 20000 Crowns with her.
20000. Why my Son has presented her to the vallue of 5000 Crowns in one thing or another.
His again, but with your leave, you give but 15000 Crowns with her at that rate.
Fill, fill therefore Brother, I think your oblig'd in honour to give her 5 and 20000 and then—
Think better of your Countrys Constitution, and provoke not, with such Indecent Insolencies; Consider who I am.
Why, you are an old Fellow as old as my self, nor better nor Stouter.
I'le bury my Legs in thy Guts, Doggs, hell-hounds, Sacrilegious, Impious:
SCENE II. A Street.
Madam your Glove.
Nay, keep it Sir, and this, you have made 'em both your own by touching one, I scorn to wear what Strangers hands defile.
YOu have Committed an Error dangerous, tho' unwillingly, and your Ignorance may prove as fatall to us, as your self. Therefore be at the Porch of St. Gregory at Eight this Evening, from whence you shall be C [...]nducted to one who will inform you better—if you dare venture—fail not—
SCENE. III. Don Lopez House.
Answer me one thing: say she should dye, or should be forc'd from thee, or any accident should rob thee of her, would it not much torment thee?
No matter for my Arm, since thou lov'st my
Daughter: why Dory Dory, Fathers none Joy why dost thou weep? prithee be good Company with me; For my part I am so pleas'd with what he has assured me, that my Arm that has Pain'd me, did pain me, does pain me, shall pain me, neither has, does, or did, or ever shall more, Call up my Servants.
Enough, enough, why where are my Servants? Certain you love her.
Why, my hearts delight Dory little Dory, nor will you ever love any but her?
And may Heav'n for ever Curse me here and hereafter, if ever thou seest her more.
What said you Sir?
Lord Sir, I can hear without that noise, and you shall hear it again that you shall, never see her more: So either Boyl thy self, or Starve thy self, Shoot, Broyl, Fry, Drown, Hang or Damn thy self, As the Devil and you shall think fit.
Impossible.
Nay I believe you'l scarce do any of 'em.
You mock me sure.
Yes, yes, as your Father did me.
My Father▪
Ay, think upon pains to torture him, for he has rob'd thee of her; go out of my house; the next time my doors inclose thee, the building is thy Monument.
I tell thee Carlos, I do smart for this Daughter, [Page 11] Go in.
Good buy to you Sir.
Damnation.
The Second ACT.
SCENE. I. A Hall.
To such an unworthy Perjur'd Villain, and no sooner obtain'd, but slighted, like a Jugglers trick when 'tis discover'd.
Indeed there was no great Conjuring in thine:
I could keep nothing from you, told you my Love, and gave you my Love; what tho' I did languish for you, must I reveal it like a fool, could I not keep it to my self? Ah wo be to those that make their Secrets known, so I say. Time was that the Cock should never wake the Morning, nor the Owl welcome Night, but Farmosa should be visited; But now I am laid by, like an old Deed, which when once prov'd is Examin'd no more.
These Stale Maids are so Amorous; Why I have been out of Town Farmosa, my Master has had bus'ness for me, to prepare things for his Wedding, which I suppose may be unspoke again, or else I would no more have been from thee, then a Gander from his Goose when she's a hatching.
Go, go, 'tis False, my Fondness has made you loath me.
Loath the [...] ▪ thy voice is sweeter then the Early Lark's, (and shriller,) Thy breath's as fragrant as a foggy Morning; Thy cheeks appear like Roses (Dryed for Cakes) And Dimples like the Hollows of two Ovens; Thou art all over Admirable? (ugly)
Why know you not the quarrell 'twixt my Master and your own?
Has not our Lady think you some aversion to the Person of my Master, has she not seen a Stranger whose Gay Demeanour and Accomplishments has plaid the Cupid in her heart.
Nay my Farmosa, if thou lov'st, be Reall, is there a Secret I would keep from thee, by this there is not.
I never see you but for Information, and you are as short in your visits as an Eminent Physitian, I am the Pulse by whose beating you find out my Mistrisses Inclinations, and when you once know the state of her Body never▪ Enquire after mine.
Why truly I guess some such thing, but have no positive Demonstration.
Does she not sigh and covet being alone, make Contrary Answers sometimes to Questions; Does she not slight her meat; and with her Knife scratch figures on her plate, mince her fruit small, then toss it up and down, fancy strange things it'h fire and in the Clouds, blush if she hears an Englishman but mention'd, does she not read Romances, and delight much in standing at the window of an evening, cry sometimes to thee Oh Farmosa, then stop as if she had forgot her self, Complain she cannot sleep, and of odd Dreams.
For I can sit and sigh a whole day long, fancy strange things i'th fire, love standing at the window, love reading of Amours, there are but two things we differ in.
Why truly I have, and if I see you to night, I'le take care to get it out of her: not but I know it already, but the Rogue will balk me anon if I tell him now.
As a knave for an Employment: Go at ten, I'le wait at the little Back-garden, here take the key, you must go out that way, for if you are seen it may cost your Bruises some Brandy▪ I'm call'd, Adieu.
One word, hast thou no little Sum to spare thy Lover, no trisling Doubloon, no Idle Pistol.
SCENE II. A Garden.
Why let him keep his two Daughters, Like an old Lott as he is, and multiply his Generation himself: What think'st thou Carlos of the fair Biancha, Younger and Richer far then Dorothea, who Languishes too for thee, and from her Infancy almost has Lov'd thee; besides Boy thou knowst thou wert in a manner promis'd to her.
Presents, no, I forgot that Boy; I'le make him refund, or swear him into the Inquisition for Blasphemy.
A Rivall Boy; by the head of our Church thou hast reason, or hold Carlos, hold, suppose now we should contrive some dreadfull Infamy; some terrible disgrace that he may live with;
As how Sir?
Why as a punishment for his endeavouring to supplant thee in this Ladies Quarters; we'le make an Eunuch of him: and he shall repent in Anthems.
So here's a fine Feast providing for the Devil; I must have a tugg with my old Antagonist for the 5000 Crowns his Daughter has cost me; Ah that I could persuade this Platonical Fool, this Dorothea's Flesh-fly, to Marry Biancha, there's a Fortune: Her Father's a Fool too, and might easily he brought to take my Son without a Groat; damn'd [Page 15] stubborn dog—Hum! He knows he is the last of our Family, and knows I am past getting of Children, or I would so penny-bind the Rogue, he should scarce have enough to pay the Fees of his Confessour: Children are great Plagues, not but Parents are great Rogues, tho' sometimes I know not which are the worst:
Scene Changes to the back-side of a Church.
Because we believe we give the Devil the slip when we go to another Country.
Ay, and that's the reason they say of our Gentrys Travelling so much.
Scene Changes to Dorothea's Bed-Chamber.
Have a care of that; some say he's an Italian, and he is not the first of that Country in Breeches that has wanted somewhat of all a woman would be fond of.
Well, I wish his behaviour may reward the great faith you have in him.
Well I have told you my mind, and what I desire of you: I do love and must love him, let my Future fate be what it will. And you may choose a Rich Gay thing for your self out of the Dons you spoke of.
Thank you for what you can't eat, Madam, Bless me from such motions of men: why they're so fond of themselves, that unless it be you, their eyes survey nothing else; what should I do with such waxwork? They're sit for nothing but to set off a mantle-tree, or furnish out a Closet.
Wou'd they had you in a closet to stop your mouth.
By my faith I don't believe I should cry out for 'em, why, they can do nothing to a woman but stare at her, nature never intended these Animals for any thing but ornament, like Swans they make a shew, but are good for nothing—they are pretty Parrot-keyts to hold in ones hand, or to be strok'd like Squirrills.
Have a care of their Tales Sister.
Do you look after your own; and if thou art Conquer'd by this Silvio, who may be a Tinker for ought thou knowst, we may find the effects of his love in three months, and see you carry his Budget before you.
I am gone—but I will have a peep at him, tho' my Curiosity prove as fatall as Acteons; it may be a stranger I have seen, and I should be loath to Jump in a fancy with her.
To morrow I shall be at Chappell, There we may Feast our Eyes and fancy more; be watchfull of your self, and at Night be where you were this Evening, and you shall be conducted here again.
The Third ACT.
SCENE. I.
Well, really he's a sweet Creature, and his expressions are refin'd like loaf-Sugar, they dissolve in the Ear till the mouth waters.
I know not that, few things know their strength till they're put to't.
Thou would'st work him finely if thou had'st him at thy-discretion, Thou art for spurring a Free-Horse to death.
Well, Certainly he's an Angell, I never saw so Divine a Creature.
Why let it be the 6 a Clock Bell, it Rings not for you, you are eager at Every call but mine.
You'l not see me till its spent: I am made use of like Parents, when the Children want money they're as diligent as Parish-Officers against Christmas, but when they have it they so itch to be gone.
Well, there 'tis; you may drink my health out on't tho', and remember the Founder when you turn off the Cups:
Thy health! why, there's no tast without it. Thou art the Anchovy to my Liquor, the Rellishing bit, the tempter to the other Bottle, the Tobacco to my Pipe, the catch that makes me merry, the Theam of my Wit. With the juice of the Grape thou swim'st in my Brain, And art washt every Night by Sparkling Shampain, which dances i'th' Glass like the Beam in thy Eye, and till I am dead-drunk my Wine never dies.
Adds life, my Mistriss up so early, away, and forget not night as you hope for t'other Barbary.
Ay, with all my heart, its indifferent to me if ever thou goest again; but what's to be done in this bus'ness concerning the match with Carlos?
I thought you had resolv'd Sir, I was ordering his Presents all to be return'd to him.
Marry, Heav'n forbid, why they are worth 5000 Crowns.
Were they worth Millions Sir, 'tis Mercenary, and base to keep 'em, after the Person who presented 'em's discharg'd from her he gave 'em too, 'tis poor—
Yes to be without 'em, prethee tell not me of base and Mercenary, did'st ever know a project in thy life go on without cost? Besides his Father has sent to me and desires another Conference.
After so base a usage in your last Sir, will you see him?
Why, I don't know, he has sent me a hundred of Barbary-Gold.
Hum—Why 'twould be an affront to return 'em whether I see him or no:
Fools face go, now I think on't, yet go in since you wont go out to Prayers, and leave the management to me:
For your own sake, will you do as I'le have you, or 'twill be worse for you:
Why, what will you neither serve God nor me, get you in you peremptory baggage, get you in—
Well what's to be done in this Case? I have made a rash vow, but they are better broke then kept, when 'tis to Advantage; I know this [Page 25] Carlos Doats on my Girl, and the Father will come to any terms, rather then he should fall under any danger for the loss of her. I will now demand just as much more with his Son as I did, and give my Daughter but half as much as I offer'd: for 'tis usuall to make the best of ones Goods when the first price is refused, and the Customer fond of his Choice.
Conduct him up—and d'hear, let my Servants be within call. lest the old Bravo should quarrell again, and he's too rough for me; on Equall terms now Lopez look about thee, and like a Cunning Usurer at a pinch, part not with the Principle without good Interest.
Signior, you see I trust in your honour, and venture where your Spleen might make sure work, but I believe you'r noble.
Signior, I am a more Generous Enemy then to take advantage— but I hope the matter being forgot we may begin as friends:
I embrace the offer, and with this hearty Clasp here sign the Peace.
Bona—Signior, are you for some Liquor this morning?
Something that will not Scald, if it please you Signior.
Within there, some Sherry: do you like Nutmeg and Sugar?
I think 'tis more a Cordiall so!
Spice it d'hear? well Signior, I must Inform you, that on the noise of breaking the Match between your Son and my Daughter, I have had many fair offers, but matters having gone so far with us, Tho' passion was predominant some time, I would not tho' to advantage hear of any 'till I had tryed If you had quite forsook her.
Signior, I am not Ignorant of her Deserts, nor of the Crowd of Gallants would Espouse her; therefore as Prudent Travellers, when the Roads are full send to their Inne before-hand for reception, so I did constantly dispatch to you; still as my Son design'd to approach your family, some token for his kind Accommodation.
Signior, 'tis true, but now I had one from you; And like a faithfull Host I'le entertain you; My Daughter is the best of my Apartment; which I suppose your Son would fain repose, Come to my terms and he shall take possession, and make his Conjugall Entry when he pleases▪
The sooner the better; for here are dismall times coming on; the whole worlds in a Riot, never was such Universall Confusion known.
Look you Signior, give me a good Conscience neighbour, a good Conscience: I look upon a man that loves his neighbour as himself, does as he would be done by, and is contented with what he has; is in a very fair way to Salvation.
Now I'le hit the old Jew—
Then woe be to Usurpers and Gamesters, for they never do as they'd be done by, and are allways Coveting their neighbours goods.
But Pox of Politicks (and the Rogues bitter sayings against Usurpers)
Let us return to our Children.
Sir, here's a young Gentleman, a Stranger desires to be admitted.
I am buisy.
I told him so Sir, but he'l not be answer'd, he says he must needs see you, and is resolv'd:
Why let him come up Signior, we can dispatch our business when he's gone.
Sir, I know Presumption in this Country is dangerous, but my freedom has no further end then Acquaintance, and I hope I may satisfy you I am worthy of it.
Sir the Satisfaction will be equally gratefull to me as my acquaintance acceptable to you.
Signior Lopez, The Person that brings this is a Gentleman of Worth and Fortune, I would have waited on him to you, but he would not admit of it; you may redit what he says, for he is Noble: I'le wait on you at night, and tell you more: Yours to command, Gomez.
Adds me my neighbour, your recommendation is good:
If you please Sir let's drink first, I hope the partaking of a Bottle will not choak your Information.
Faith no Sir, I come from a Country where the Element of Bacchus is more potent then any of the four where Religion and Politick are the Subject of the 3d. bottle, and scarce any of 'em know either when they'r Sober.
You are in the right Sir, 'tis as famous for Ease and Luxury as the Life of Cleopatra, where the Courtiers get the Citizens Children, and then marry 'em to their own, where Impudence is pregnant, and Fools multiply, where most men dye naturall Deaths: and the youth keep Company before they can read.
Pray Sir how thrives that Country you came from?
Troth Sir, 'tis in a fairer way then ever, the Prince and the People have faith in Each other, and there's great hopes that Brittain will retreive its long lost glory.
I'm glad on't, and now Sir, Let me begin a health, for to tell you a Secret; I wish 'em well Boy, for all I'm a Catholick;
Well Sir, now to my Business. I am a Gentleman whom Fortune has bless'd early in the World, whose Family this Country is no Stranger to, I have lain here incognito some time for want of my Effects, which being come, I thought fit to attend on you; for they say no man more fitting to tell his own tale then himself.
Sir, Let her name be what it will, If I win her, I'le wear her, and with her Fathers leave I'le venture as far as any man.
400000. Crowns, why 'twould make a Parish of noble Venetians, how they'd Jump at this youth now; 400000 Crowns; why 'twould Lead their Army to Constantinople: Some wine Sir, here's to the memory of your Father, I was allways a Lover of Orphans, and especially those who never trusted the Bank of a City with their Fortunes.
You must draw then; perhaps I may find it in your heart tho' your tongue is so stubborn.
Hold Signior, and Sir excuse him, the wine is uppermost; here, call out my Daughters.
And so Conquerour over two, faith:
Sir, here's your health, I will Drink with you for her, Fight with [Page 29] your Son for her, Ravish your Wife, and fire your House for her.
Why you'r an Eunuch, you Dog, you can do nothing with her.
Yes, I will get a Boy upon her, that shall live to Cudgell thy third and fourth Generation.
Nay prithee, Francisco, have Patience till the Gentleman sees her: O here they come.
Now Sir, Sand still Children, stand upright:
That's more then the Father can; Certainly Dorothea, the old fellow has made a good Bargain, he would never have allow'd wine enough for all this else.
Prithee give me the Sun little Alexander; for like Diogenes I could live in a Tub and behold nothing else; 'Tis she Sir, she that Hellen of her Sex that like poor Troy has set my heart a Flaming; Madam may I crave the Curtesy of a first meeting?—
May I presume here too, Madam?
Well; since you have made your choice Sir, it shall be layd by for you: Go get you in Children, and Sir, pray be pleas'd to step in with your Mistriss, I have a little business with this Gentleman which when dispatcht I'le be with you: 400000 Crowns you mad baggage—
Go, go, Son in Law, go, don't look melancholly, Dory, Fathers eldest Joy; I'le take care of thy fortune too I warrant thee.
Oh Cursed Gold! how many miserable matches hast thou made?—
Come Brother, since this Gentlemans choice is so acceptable to you, here's prosperity to 'em.
And if you will, my Son and he may be married together; and one Entertainment will serve both.
Look you Signior, your Frugality is good, but we must know first our Bargain.
That will never do Seignior; for look you, this Gentleman is worth 400000 Crowns, and takes my youngest Daughter, now I will never let my Eldest go under:
Here's a Dog, 400000 Crowns, why how the Devill will you make your Daughter worth such a Fortune?
So you would have 400000 Crowns, and not give a penny with t'other.
Ay! I'le see you damn'd first; were not you talking just now of Conscience?
Signior 400000 Crowns will purchase the best Conscience in Christendom, and as the Merchant says, If you will not come to my price, I'le keep my Commodities to my self:
What's here to do! A Sword drawn? nay, then for the honour of the Lopez's:
Give me my mony Rogue, the 5000 Crowns my Son has presented [Page 31] your stale Daughter with; And the hundred broad pieces sent you this Morning.
Not a farthing, they shall pay for the washing of my face, Signior.
Villains, Murderers, Usurers, Rogues, that profess Christianity without Conscience, and Conscience without Christianity—hark thee Lad, thou art a pretty fellow; ben't seduced, he'le not give thee a penny with his Daughter, he'le Cheat thee of every groat; Prethee stand by, and let's rob the Rogue; I'le bind him whilst thou ly'st with his Daughters, And then we'le share his money betwixt us.
I will sell my Soul to the Devill; but I will be reveng'd; May thy Daughters have the small-pox till their faces looke like the inside of a Bee-Hive; May thy Servants all have Stomachs like Cormorants, mayst thou change 'em each week and be robb'd by 'em each Month; may all thy Bankers break, thy Ventures be lost, till thou'rt as poor in thy Person as thou'rt in thy Spirit, and thy own Children deny thee— Help, Murder, Treason, Fire, Assassinates, Rebells.
Ay, something lies heavy upon his Conscience, he's a Strange wicked fellow:
And thou shalt have it Child—Prethee bring thy Jewells and thy Gold, and thy and what thou hast hither—Methinks I would have 'em safe.
Well, prethee kiss me, thou art so like my Wife that's dead, I must needs kiss thee—
Well, never was two faces so alike: I don't believe you're a man you Rogue, as Francisco said.
The Fourth ACT.
SCENE. 1. A Hall,
You had as good, for I'le not loose another word on thee:
SCENE. II.
It must be he, for this is the time and place we were directed to observe:
'Tis like thee base and treacherous Carlos.
Ha giving ground! for the weaker side, like a true Champion.
SCENE. III.
SCENE IV.
A Hall.
The Fifth ACT.
SCENE I.
Scene Changes to Don Francisco's Garden.
I long to see them one, ah! Carlos, Carlos, that I were in a Condition to take thy place that Night; but no matter, I'll tell thee how I did at thy Age, and if thou can'st out-fling thy Daddy a Barr's length, much good do thy Spouze with it.
I warrant you Brother, she'll match him, or she's a Bastard by the Mother's side; but Brother—
Do I hope to be a Grand-father—to see a—chopping Rogue come out of thy Parcely-Bed, and hear it cry Granny, Daddy.—If thou dost not get her with Child in a Month, by the Champion of Spain I'll do't my self.
I am at frozen Sixty Brother, Nature has no such Extasies in my Veins.
Scene changes to Don Lopez his House.
Well, I have sent to this Antonio to come to me to Night, I find I am a Fool, and ask you pardon for all I have said of Silvio.
Why, he's safe, under the care of Signior Octavio, a neighbouring Merchant, an Ancient Friend of his Fathers; But I have sent to him concerning Carlos's recovery, and he will come to night; I have told my Father he's the Brother of your Lover, and he approves of his Amour.—but here he comes, Ill tell you more anon.
Well Dory, I have consider'd concerning this Silvio; If it be prov'd Adtonio and he are Brothers, take thy choice, I'll not Interrupt thee.
Scene the Street.
You may be sure, all I can serve you in is full as welcom to my Soul, as to your own.
Come, come, place your selves ready, and take care your Simphany's and Retournels, and your what de Callums, come in good time; Come strike, strike the key there.
God this don't do I believe, I am whorse, and she don't hear my Musick.
Sir, I have some Affairs in this Family; which oblige me to wait here, and it would conduce much to my designs if you would please to retire.
Sir, I have some Affairs in this Family, which oblige me to wait here, and it would conduce much to my designs if you would go about your business.
Scene changes to a Garden Wall.
Of England, and going to my Lodging was set upon by Villains, If you have Honour give me your Protection.
Scene changes to the inside of a Garden.
Here, step into that Arbor, I'll go and see if my Servants be remov'd, that you may be safe; I'll be with you presently, for if the Corrigedore be rais'd—
Well; we Confidents have a sad time on't, up at all hours, and ready upon all Occasions; And for Lying no People come near us. I fent Antonio the key of the Garden, and this is the time he was order'd to be in the Arbor, I think I see him, hist▪ Sir, my Mistress stays for you.
What shall I say, by Heaven this is some Appointment with a Rival, Oh false Dorothea!
Lord 'tis very dark! well, it's a pleasant time for Lovers, if I had a Gallant I should love the dark excessively.
This was not the thing I meant; He's so dull I cannot perswade him to be rude.—this Climate has such a heavy Influence on man in England, now the Maids are often their Mistresses Tasters; Come then, since you are so stupid—
This Garden is so large, and 'tis so dark, I scarce can grope this Arbour out. Oh! for my Mistress on a soft bed of Roses, yielding as I am, with transported Sighs, then blubbering for the Joy her Love had lost—with one hand pushing me, the other griping, till by repeated bliss her griefs forget, and she rejoyces in the flame she dreaded. Oh! here's the Arbor, would my Guide would come.
Come Sir, all's clear, and I'll preserve you till the search is over, and then take care for your escape.
Scene changes to Farmosa's Bed-Chamber.
Stay here till I see if the old man be safe, and Ill conduct you to my Lady speedily.
I am almost smother'd, and so stung by Vermin, that if I had a Glass I might fancy I had the Small-Pox; the Fleas have danc'd backwards and forwards o'r me this three hours, that I am gawl'd as if a Nest of Aunts had travail'd over me with their hoard for Winter.
Heark! the Door opens.
What will become of me, I know not, I must put a good Face upon the matter, and pretend I only came to see what house his Daughter kept.
So, here's murder going forward, would I coud get under the bed to my leap Frogs again.
Help! Murder! Oh! I quake for fear of a chance thrust in my bowels; murder, help, murder.
Ah! what's here, three men, thieves, give me my Sword, fetch up my great Guns, help, thieves there, thieves.
They have lost their aim, I hope thou art not hurt, forgive me Madam; Oh my brother! My Soul's divided so 'twixt Love and Frindship, I know not which to serve.
Nor I no Friendship he bestows on you. Nay, come into the Lump, and let's all four unite into one Soul; where hast thou been? but more of that hereafter; but what is he, we stumbled on?
I was lock'd in by my Lady Farmoza, I came on the same design your honour did, only my Love was plac'd on a lower object.
Therefore I beg we may live with you still; make her your housekeeper, and me your valet, though I'm preferr'd, I am not grown proud Sir,
My respects to you Sir, shall prove how much I honour my Masters Relations.
Yes Sir, and this his Brother, of whom my Sister fully has inorm'd you, Lop. his Brother, Sil. yes Sir.
And this key, by your Daughters Appointment, gave me admittance.
Besure you oyl the wards well, and keep 'em from Rusting. But Son in Law, is this really your Brother?
The very Brother I told you I was in search of, how we have mist each other here, I know not, but we are met at last, nor shall the world part us; my Fathers Death—I suppose this Lady has given you a full Account of—my Travels are too tedious for the present, we'll talk of 'em hereafter, the four thousand Crowns my Father left, I freely deliver to you, and only contrive some way that I may purchase this man's meat, and I desire no more.
Sir, I have a thousand Crowns more in Don Octavio's hands, which shall be put to what my Brother speaks of, and be divided equally betwixt us, if you think them Recommendations sufficient to your Daughters Love, we are happy; if not, we must submit, and curse the Scantiness of our Fortune.
Sir, you speak worthily: and had ye no fortunes? So well I like your Principles, I should esteem them Estates of themselves. The morning comes fast upon us, the transactions of this night we'll deferr till a more Leisure time; here, take my Daughters, and use 'em as their behaviour deserves.
If mine have a Conscience, and will be contented with what I have, I shall think nothing too much for her.
I expect no voluntiers, be just to your Family Duties, that's all I shall look for.
If I run upon tick Cuckold me—
Even Reckonings you know, make long Friends, be prudent, for as you use me at first, I shall expect hereafter.
Spare my blushes, and take me to your self.
Entreat him to appear, 'tis my Appointed Guardian, by my Father whilst I inhabit here.
Sir, I believe the Inhabitants of Sevill have been all upon the Ramble to night, for here's Don Francisco, Don Pedro, Don Carlos, and the Lord knows who below.
Why, they'r welcome, bring'em up, and we'll be friends with all; it shan't be said on such a day, I have emnity with any, if Franciso is to be reconciled, I'll refuse no Articles, he shall propose.
I know it, and for what too—come Brother, that was to have been—if you can forget what's past I shall, your Sons presents shall be restor'd, and I'll present my Cousin Biancha, whom I hear he's to marry, with two thousand Crowns for a Suit of dressing Plate.
Are you in earnest?
Here's my hand.
Well, I did ever think thee a good man in the worst of our Quarrels—call up my Son and the Company with him, brother, we'll keep the Name, though we are not, so may we never meet but thus, Oh!
Oh Boys! Such news, such ample Satisfaction, that his Generosity almost brings tears in my Eyes.
Sir.
No Complements Signior Carlos, all is well.
But here's a Gentleman I've most offended, can you forgive me Sir?
The joy I have to find you safe, cancels all injuries; and it shall be the future study of my Life to gain your Friendship.
And mine to shew it Sir—if I am not deceiv'd, this Gentleman was he that rescued you in that unhappy broil.
Was it thy hand Antonio, bless'd be thy Arm, and mine that press'd no deeper.
Give you joy Couzin.
I ha't, I hope, if Carlos can bestow it.
Blessings on ye all, Brother Francisco, 'tis such a comfort to see our Children thus provided for, that sure no ordinary Joy must wait upon 'em; let's be Luxurious in this Festival, and stretch our strings to make it truly Glorious.
Stretch! By St. Jago I'll turn my baggs inside outwards, till we have purchast the utmost of pleasure.
Yes, if I thought you could perform as well as your Master.
I am not so tempted Farmoza, but in the dark who knows but Joan may be as good as you know the Proverb—
Come, none shall depart from this house unsatisfied; take him Farmoza, and I'll give you 500 Crowns to begin the world with.
I am at your worships dispose Sir.
And if thou canst encrease thy Family by her, I'll give thee as much more to provide for it.
I warrant you Sir, I have a good Steel and a Flint, if the Tinder will take fire.
Go run my Servants, and set Spain at work to feast our fancies; Lovers take hands; nay, let the Fathers joyn too, we'll haste to Church, and see these man and wife, all revel here this day.
Mine's the next.