Scene the First.

MIserable Shipton in what a poor condition has it plea­sed the powers to place thee! sure all the Eyes of Happiness did look a Squint at my Nativity, and all the Destinies combin'd to wrap me up in end­less poverty.

This is excellent her low condition does lay the foundation for my siege, i'l listen to what follows.

How pleasant and thrice happy is the fortune of other Mor­talls, [Page 2]how bravely do they live and injoy themselves and their e­states! How like petty dieties are they seated in their pallaces! and to such poor Cottage bred Creatures as my self extend their gene­rous Hospitality! how nobly do they pass over their lives and with odours and perfumes enter their earthly graves, whose fame is still surviving by their Princely Pedigree? why was not this my lot poor miserable Shipton▪

Better, better yet, she is ambitious, and I am half confident she is my own.

What pleasant life have I? forlorn desolation? What estate or subsistance? The Alms of the Parish? What Grave but a Ditch? And for my pedigree can only boast of poverty? I was wretched by my Parents indigency, and by their death in my Minority, thrice, thrice more Miserable! Am I not flesh and blood? Has not Nature bestowed on me the like perfections, each Mortal now can boast off? Why am I so low then when others are so high? Why do I court the ground when others in their glorious pinacles grasp the sky? Well hence forth will I scorn their Alms and gifts of Charity.

I am too presumptuous and do offend these powers we are bound in the strictest obligations to obey: No be content in time thou wilt see Heaven will give thee more felicity.

Ha! This startles me does her ambition thaw, I'l to her e're she too much repents.

Fair Maid, nay startle not, pardon me that I have been a gentle au­ditor to your sorry tale, yet think of me, as I seem to be; a Gentle­man well descended, and not of so mean a spirit to divulge the least Syllable of what I have heard, but be as secret as the silent Air.

Sir your Carriage and discourse confirm you a Gentleman; and since you have over heard what I never intended to declare to a­ny: My hope is in your promise: You will be Privy.

I'l be thy bosome Cabinet, and since at first sight I see thou art meritorious: 'Tis in my power and I am willing to bring thee to ad­vancement: Nay such honour as shall touch the height of those to whom thou hast been subservient, and spurn at those that hitherto have slighted thee.

Sir you promise fair.

I'l perform fairer, Therefore to morrow morn at sun rising, under the broad Beech-tree, in Naes-borough Grove fail not to meet me.

Upon my Life I will not,

Then thou shalt see, i'l find a means to

I thank you sir.

This promise makes me proud, perform it & thou art noble

Scene the Second.

'TIs a mad life thou leadst.

A merry life, the only life? I am like a man finding a Table furnished to his hand, as mine is still to me, prayers for the sounder, I thank him he has maintained my house this six years, not only keeps my wife, but me and all my family: I am at his Table, he [Page 4]puts me to nothing, no rent, nor Church duties, no not so much as the scavenger, the happiest state that ever man was born to: I walk out in a morning, come to breakfast, find excellent cheer, a good fire in winter, look in my coal house about Midsomer eve▪ five or six chal­drone new laid up▪ look in my back yard, I shall find a pile of fagots that over look the Church steeple, I say nothing to all this, but smile and gently pin the door again, when my wife lyes Inn, as even now she's on the point of grunting, a Lady lies not like her, she has her Embossings, Embroiderings, Spanglings, and I know not what, her Sugar by whole loaves, her wine by Rundlets: I see these things but like a haypy man.

And then for want of my wife, have I a legion of Mistresses.

But prithee when doest exspect Sir Oliver?

Why to morrow so his last letter said.

So then we may hope for a recruite.

Hope, we will command it, he must be liberal to me, but mum here comes David.

How now David any newes for me from Sir Oliver

Yes, I have a Letter for you Sir.

He is in good health I hope.

I hear nothing to the contrary, but I must bid you farewell Sir, business calls me away, otherwise Mr. Shiftwel you and I would not part so driely.

Farewel honest David

So now Ile open thee.

My dear Shiftwel.

That's lovingly.

O 'tis flattery I fear

In the last you received from me, I told thee how speedy I would be in my return, both for the love I bear to my Lady and thy self, [Page 5]but since several businesses prohibite my intent, so that now I cannot be in town till the latter end of next week, but then I will be most liberal

This does not make the old Proverb good, short and sweet, for this is short

But damnable sower.

Well poverty parts good company, so for the present fare­wel, next time we meet, I hope we shall be in a condition too fare better.

Scen. III.

ROger earry the Portmantle to my Lodging, Ile follow presently.

I will forsooth.

Ha Noll, is it so i'faith has a young Mrs, restored a new fire into your decayed parts, I thought 'twas impossible for nature to broach another vessel of strength into thy whithered veins, well if it be so, so let it be: when I lay by thy side thou tookest no care in the night but to mumble out thy prayer and Pater noster: many times when I have endeavoured to force a motion in thee, to give life to thy dead spirits alas! I was answered wiith hollow groans, and excuses of age? and to imagine the truth, I beleive tis rather thy money then thy for­titude that quenches the appetite of that woman thou frequents for otherwise by experience I can tell her thirst would rather encrease then her desire be satisfied: well Ile pay thee in thy Coyn, I have not a face altogether contemptible, nor money for properties to preserve it from wrinckles, and I hope ere long this City will afford me a Gallant.

Scen IV.

MY brave spirits the world is now in distraction, confusion meets in every place, and will ere long involve it self into a second Chaos: now with all the hellish art you are masters of, scout about and make the consciences of men as black as Hell it self: mean while Alecto let it be your care to cherish our Traytors in the lower vault. Massanello that proud fisher boy that durst usurp so much disloyalty against his Prince, to raise forces against him and make his subjects most perfidious, the like to Matchavile that whead­ling Traytor, Synon that betrayed the noble Trojans, also to Hanibal the noblest Hellhound Hell can boast of, but who comes here.

Great Prince 'tis Radamon.

Now Radamon the news with thee.

Declare it.

I have been with Shipton a poor Alms wench to whom as she was deploring her sad condition, I appeared apparelled like a very handsome Gentleman, gave her large promises, to make good which early this Morn, at Sun-rising I am to meet her under the broad Beech tree in Na [...]sborough Grove.

Well done Radamon thou art a providing Divel and does much [Page 7]for the Interest of our Kingdom, we thank thee for thy care and dili­gence.

Scene the Fifth.

NOw for Moneylack he'l behold and bless himself, and with confidence swear i'm a limb of a Devil. How Scrape one of my old Usurers! Pox on his picture! Now do I quake as if I had had the standing Ague these seven years! yet perforce I must be couragious and speak to him: Mr. Scrape your obleiged Servant Sir.

Mr. Shiftwel how have you done this long while, I can never have the happiness to see you at our end of the town.

No faith nor never shall

as long as I can keep at this.

Why Sir, so and so, I make a heard shift to keep head and should­ders together.

Well but to put off this discourse, you and I must be a little more serious.

Now it begins to work.

You know Mr. Shiftwell, the times expired my money due, and your bond forfeited, and now what would you have me do? when I lent my money I appeare an Angel, but now I call for it again Ile war­rant you a very devil.

'Flesh! what shall I do with him? ther's no way to set him going but Hectoring. Why Sir I can't help it, you must stay till I have it, you know like a Gentleman I pawn'd you my Land for the [Page 8]tenth part of the value, and now times are dead, no money stirring, 'tis a bard case, you must forbear longer or I shall grow very angry.

Fret and spare not, I know no obligation lies upon me with my honey to feed drones, but in short my money I want, and my money ile have, or it shall go hard with you.

Flesh how the Rogue railes

sure he has got some Baliffes nigh; I see none:

yet its well, he knowes not of my being a Pander, therefore Ile plead poverty, and my former trade of Merchandize, and see if I can move the Rogue to pitty: alas! at present Sir I cannot, my wife and fami­ly then will starve for want of bread.

More too blame thou in not providing better to support them, your debt is an estate for a good man pray acquaint me how were my thousand pounds imployed?

How a Dun upon Shiftwel, I am come to my wish, here Il [...] keep out of sight and hear all, I know no object that could more con­tent me. Ha my Uncle Scrape, better and better, but Ile be silenced till the future.

I [...]su [...]t not on my Calamity good Sir, though being a Debtor and a slave to him that lends, I must endure it, yet hear me speak thus much in my own defence, losses at sea, and those Sir, great and many by storms and tempest, not domestical Riot in soothihg of my wifes humor, or my own has brought me to this low ebb.

Sure tis an old debt, he pleads his former trade of Merchan­dize, 'tis well the old Rogue knows it to be no otherwise.

Suppose this true.

Nay 'tis a real truth without supposals Sir, besides can you think in your unquestioned wisdome that the ruine of me, (once an able Merchant) can raise your reputation with good men!

No if it thrive with him, hang me as 'twill damne him if he be not converted, for all he's my Uncle.

Suppose this Sir, if you permit me a moneth more, it wi l not be your loss nor prejudice, and there was never yet but shame and scandal in a victory when Rebels unto reasons passion fought it.

Our Divines cannot speak more effectually.

Shall I be talked out of my Money.

No Sir, but entreated to do your self a benefit and pre­serve that you possess intire.

How Friend?

By makeing me your beadsman, when I eat my thanks, next Heaven, will be paid to your mercy, when your ships are at sea, my prayers will swell the sailes with prosperous winds and guard them from tempests and Pyrates: keep your ware houses from fire, or quench them with my tears.

If this could be.

It must or my devotion lyes:

come Sir, I see a gentle promise in your eye, make it a happy act and me rich in being the instrument.

Well you have prevailed, take a moneth longer, but see you faile not, if you do Ile protest you first, and that done, have the Statute made for Bankrupts served upon you.

If I do 'tis in your power, but not in mine to shun it.

But do you hear: no talk of it, should this arrive at twelve on the exchange, I should be laugh'd at for my foolish pitty, which money men hate, so farewel.

So he's gone.

I bless the Counter where I learnt this Rhetorick, now Ile shake againe.

Ha! so full faith and plead poverty, Ile out and scorn him: Ha, ha, ha.

Well Ile abide your jears for once, and hope it may be your turne another time.

In troth very likely, but I have seen and heard all, excuse my manners.

I think I worked him pretty well for all he was your Uncle,

Nay and with such Devotion too.

Never did I pray so, so heartily before,

Sceen the sixth,

PUft up with pride I am grown ambitious, can I forget to give, a bow to the humble Milkmaids: can I forget a cursie making to my liberal Almes-givers? can I forget every Sundaies going to the Church porch to beg a loaf? yes I can forget all,

But ha! I see my happiness, the Sun shines clear: come, come my worthy Gallant, if thou dost faile to effect what thou hast promised me, all my expectations are but Aire! but why do I doubt thy gra­titude, I am confident in thy nobleness, and will vaunt upon it: soare high Shipton, higher yet, and think thou never wast, what too sure thou hast been! Ha, ha, ha, me thinks I shall laugh to see a poor wench beging for an Almes, though I have don't my self, ha! for that very word I could correct my insolence! I will avouch I neere was poor: hang all beggarry, for my expected happiness assures me I was born to know endless felicity, not the fruits of woe. But stranger things I yet conceive! This Gentleman could not having no ground of acquaintance promise me this preferment without a cause? no my youth and beauty stirr'd him to't! I am in my teens and that alone must be the motive! this I conjecture, and this effect ye powers for my future bliss.

My pritty Damsel I must confess I have been somewhat tar­dy, but now come to perform my promise beyond thy expectation, guess at my meaning.

Alas! I cannot prophesie Sir.

Then know I intend to marry thee, and have brought these my attendants to witnesse it

Are you real Sir?

By all that's real I am: behind this Grove I have a horse and pillion for my Spouse, these my attendants are nobly mounted too, we have not Jades that need the switch and spur, but will run with all speed to performe the rights that to our marriage shall be appur­tenant, bestow thy self upon me and all my Fortunes and Estate are thine.

Now I see I prophesied rightly: I am ever happy, Thee and thy estate, a noble Husband.

A match lets go,

Scena prima.

COme, come devide the spoyle, share and share like▪

Withall my heart: there Hodge there's for thee.

Very right.

And there Jug there's for thee.

True to a farthing.

And there Bab's for thee, and here's for my self, and the odd overplus lets give to the Fidler.

A very good Motion, for now after our long puritanical praying lets spend a little of what we got in meriment.

Prethee Greg. what is it thou starest at so?

Why at yonder thach't cottage, me thinks it would make a [Page 10]pretty pallace for us Princes of the ragged Regiment to in habite in.

O that was old Shipton the ditch diggers.

I but he is dead, Hodge, and has left it to his daughter a poor Almes wench.

And yet as proud as the Devil.

I wonder what's become of her, I have not seen her at Almes giving a pretty while, and she did not use to hang an Arse.

Pish let her be where she will, we keep the Fidler here to no purpose.

Well strike up Fidler wee'l take a dance, and then make en­quiry after Agatha Shipton for the purchase of her cottage.

Act second, Scen. second.

I that have lead a life until of late in spight of death, passed through the dangers of it without regard, am now won and vanquished: There is an heroick Amazon hard by, whose eyes have darted fire in­tomy breast, which nothing but her kindness can extinguish, but if she should prove cruel I shall soon be ashes I Must I thus yeild? shall I forget the sound of Martial drums, the warlike noise of Trumpets, to list to the inticeing harmony of instruments touched by P [...]ikellas hand? shall I forget the ordering of a camp? to ride great horses to besiedgs a City? to undermine a Castle, to raise Bulwarks, and all for the love of a simple woman? it must be so: these legs that were wont to lead arm'd men to battaile, I now must use in dances: this haire that used to be covered with a Helm cloggy with sweat and blood, I now must daily powder: these hands that were used to wave a dread­ful sword instead of iron gauntlets, now must wear perfumed gloves: I that was wont to be constantly under a Chyrurgeons hands, must have a Barber now to keep me neat: O Love thou art divine, and canst transforme,

O heaven if I can but win my love, it will be a conquest deserves a trophee far above,

My best of victories:

Who art thou,

I Sir.

I you, what are you to good to be spoke too?

I am Roger.

By that I know thee not, is Roger in a Captains Roll? ist't writ?

Yes Sir in the Parsons book; the day thereof my baptisme is set down.

And in that honour, how oft hast thou ere fought with Infi­dels and kil'd a score or two.

Not I, a score or two said you Captaine, nay then I should ne­ver escape, for ile promise you many one is hang'd for killing of one.

Fie what an ignorance is this hast thou a mind to become a souldier?

Indeed I cannot resolve you, I am with a Mistress, ile ask her whether shee'l turn souldier too, and then if I like it there's an end, but pray Captain what is a souldier?

A souldier is a man that ventures his life a hundred times a day, and in his Princes and his Countries cause stands Canons shot, and when his bodies full of wounds, lyes all night in the field, and sleeps upon his Helm.

Good Captain pardon me, neither I nor my Mistress will be souldiers then, venter my life so many times a day, there's more safe­ty in turning Theif, marry I thought a souldier had not been such a fool, but now I think on't good Captain perswade my Father, Mo­ther, Brothers, Sisters, and all the kindred I have to become souldiers, that they may all be killed quickly, I swear Captain you should loose nothing by it.

Base Coward.

Good Sir what is the meaning of that word Coward?

A Coward is a fellow as base as thou, one that does spend his pretious time in sloath, cares not what alterations Kingdomes have, so be at home may welter in his pleasures, a fellow that had rather sit all day smoaking Tobaco and carouseing cups, then dye his sword in blood of Enemies.

Why then Sir indeed I am a very Coward, 'tis better by half then a souldier, I know there's far more pleasure in a glass of good wine then in bullets whizing about ones ears, and Pikes and Halberts beating out ones teeth.

Thou dungil wretch.

Nay pray Sir be not angry, for I vow I should never digest the souldiers life.

Thou earthen minded slave 'tis pitty thou should'st eat or drink thou hast no better thoughts.

Good Sir give me leave to be of my own mind and a Coward, I am sure there's no wise man but won'd say as I doe, what have I to do with souldery, let those follow wars that at are weary of their lives.

Thou art as dungil a minded Rascal as ever I heard, and de­servest to be hang'd, and so I leave thee.

Go hang your self my Hufting Captain, what have I to do with your warrs two, I should never endure to hear a gun shot off, for hearing the report of our Stewards pistol, does many times make me endanger my breeches.

Scen. Third.

Stand at a distance, me thinks this state becomes me.

HA! what Bell is that?

O Yes, if any man or woman, in City, Town, or Country can tell me tydings of Agatha Shipton, the daughter of Solomon Ship­ton Ditch digger lately deceased, let them bring word to the Cryer of the Village, and they shall be well rewarded for their pains.

Curse on that tongue what makes this cry after me? can they not bestow the Almes that came to my share to some other poor wretch that wants it more then I do now? no 'tis not that! upon my life some canting Beggars covetuous of my cottage have made this way of inquiry for me to purchase it. And if my noble Lord should have divulged it to these my attendants what I first was, and they now declare it I should again be wretched for all these delicates: I can't in my proud thought be rich if any but himself should know I ever was poor.

Pray ean any here tell me tydings of the party I cry off?

No truly honest man.

Then farewell Gentlemen.

This answer does agen prop up my spirit.

Welcome Noble Sir.

I hankes my fair Spouse, I see I am come most opertunely, lets sit and taste of all the varieties this board is furnished with.

Now begone, wee must conferre in private. Now I am thy Husband and thou art my Wife, yet know I am no mortal! I am a Devil! these my attendants Devils too! I can peirce through the aire, ransack its Treasures! I can raise thunder and lightning, stir up Storms, quell Tempests, do or undo any thing to please me! Ile give thee power too! the windes shall be at thy command, and every thing else at thy dispose!

How matried to an Imaterial Spirit this starteles me, how sweetly could I now desire my former poverty! but Pride assures me I am happy still, and on that staff ile lean. Then Fortune turn thy wheel,

Well having cunningly wone me to you, I must obey and be what you are pleased to make me.

Then after me repeat these following words.

Repeats.

Scene the Fourth

I Shall study to be your humble servant.

Thou art a noble Minister of words: but wilt thou be my Cabinet, my friend Roger?

I will obey you Sir.

Liberally spoken, when I have opened me, wilt thou be privy?

Very secret and officious, it is manners in me, your commands shall wedge my tongue, hedge my heart, and tye a true Lovers knot with the strings of it.

Thou art an honest clad of earth, it is pitty the malitious Sun-shine warm'd thee not into a Diamond.

You speak above my brain Sir.

I am marvellously in love with your Lady, Roger.

Wonderful! is my Lady your sweet heart?

Yes but ignorant of my affection yet.

I would be drunk if you were my Master Sir.

I Roger, I would have a Wine cellar to the purpose Man, but dost know any possible way to win her?

Sir I am passing empty of invention: but an't please you would you marry her?

No you may swear it, but I must counterfeit yes, why dost wonder at it?

She does nothing all day but read merry Comedies, and every night spend two or three houres on a Tragedy of a merry fellow Da­metas, and a company of strange nam'd Lovers, she's no more a hus­wife then you or I Sir, on my own proper knowledge I vow and protest it.

Thou art too earnest my old fac'd Saturn, I like her near the worse, huswifery is the superficies of a gentle Female, and the paren­thesis of a Lady which may be well left out.

You are a schollar Sir, and your bookship shall direct me,

I should be glad to cope with your Lady Sir, me thinks I am of a prompter expression then usal: Ha! your Lady said I? faith see where she comes.

I vanish in a mist then.

He out with a Poetical Solique for my Praeludium. The gaudy stars are not more full of glee, when golden Phaebus setteth in the West, nor doe the chearful Birds with more delight rejoyce at the new livery of the spring, then I to have this Miracle of Beauty enter into the knowledge of my Eyes.

He speaks well, I would he meant in earnest, the gentle­man seems very deserving, but hee's somewhat wild I imagine.

She shall be stoutly accosted, impudence is a very happy quality in a wooer I perceive.

He comes.

Lady I credit you are not a puny in the Court of Cupid, and therefore I hope need not the tedious circumstances of an Annual ser­vice: I am bold to tell you plainly I love you, and if I find occasion I will maintain it boldly.

Pray Sir Desist.

Never, sweet Lady, my descent I know you doubt not, and my love you need not, for while I live I shall love you, and when you dye your memory.

Your carriage and discourses Sir, shew you are a Tra­veller.

My boldness she means: Madam I have been one and can de­clare the Habits, Conditions and Scituations of diverse Countries; nay more my fornights observation of the Antipodes, this will make her wonder.

O strange have you been there Sir? I admire how you ever came thither!

Madam I can tell you, but should I tell you, I should afright you more then the doleful groans of a dying Creature in the hideous night.

Nay if it be so terrible, pray sir forbear.

Well put off.

Yet, pray resolve me one thing.

No sooner asked but granted.

Whether the Antipodes have a King.

Yes but he's no man.

I beleive so, for I could never credit that any man in­habited there.

There they have no houses neither but the Kings pallace, where Sir Francis Drake was entertained after he had shot the gulf.

Possible! I wonder at it.

Nay more they at the Antipodes hear with their noses, smel with their ears, but taste withall their sences, for they are the most insatiablest gluttons in the whole world.

But I cannot imagine how their sences are so contrary to ours,

Nay and they are opposite to us too.

That indeed I have heard. But you frequent playes, do ye not sir?

Playes they are most commonly my every afternoons recre­ation.

And you have red many Histories?

Many Lady.

This pleases me too, farewel sir.

Admired Lady leave me not so.

What would you have sir?

Your consent Lady

O expect that hereafter.

Nay dear Lady.

You are too importunate sir farewel.

No matter, I am sure to have thee: how some women are taken with strange tales? quest onless she's a Widdow, but no matter, plenty of money will weave contempt in a beauty at second hand.

Thou art well met.

Thanks good Shiftwel.

I have brave newes to tell thee, but come let's to the Ta­vern, and by the virtue of a glass of wine, 'twil slide off my tongue more sweet.

Agreed, but I should call upon a friend about this hour ac­cording to engagement.

Nay ile not stay for 'tis full noon, and I have promised to be Sir Olivers guess.

Hee's come to town then.

Yes he came last night, and has commanded noble prepara­tions for the gossiping to day. Ha! see where he comes.

Ile leave you then.

Protest but you shan't, Sir Oliver the humblest of your ser­vants.

Nephew Shiftwel. the only one I wisht for.

You are welcome to town Sir, I expected you long afore this, till your last Letter shew'd good cause to the contray.

Indeed I could not possible come till now, nor now neither well, for in the interim several concerns of mine lyes in the trust and confidence of some persons which I doubt.

Your Lady Sir is delivered of a fine plump boy, he will be as notable a wag as the Father Ile watrant him.

I have seen it and blessed it, but to make my promise good, there Nephew ther's ten peices for you, and come you must be my principal guess to day.

It grieves me that I must be forced against my will, I hate the company of such a crew of Women (as there to be sure I shall find enow) nay and honest women too: yet for this moneys sake I must, and so good patience guide me, Sir I can't deny you, but this Gentleman is my intimate friend and in leaving him so abruptly, I make a breach of our friendship,

Not for the world, with this Gentleman your friend, I invite you for my guess to day, and will promise you Sir a hearty wel­come.

Sir I thank you, but would willingly beg your pardon and my excuse, for probablely my strangeness may be some part of hindrance to mirth in some of your scotiable guess,

Not in the least Sir, I have a Neice that loves to enter­tain such handsome Gentlemen as you are.

He means my Sister Maria, faith for that words sake goe Money-lack.

Scen. fifth.

NOw declare,

Infernal King, I have been my circuit, but each chri­stians heart was so fortyfied against my attempts, that I was dubious of bringing any news acceptable to your ear, till at last creeping in­to a strong water shop amongst a crew of topers, I partly divided my self and stuck upon each mans tongue, who presently within the space of a poor moment, warpt out such a number of ignominous lyes, that Hell it self would quake to hear them.

I was his second, for in a puffe of smoak I crep up their noi­strils into their very brain, and their plaid a tyrants part in convert­ing their lies into execrable Oathes: damnation was their constant wish, and so wish I and hope ere long to make them Charons custo­mers.

I have been amongst a crew of Coblers and Broom-men and have raised an endless discord, that I dare promise upon penalty of your powerful displeasure, diversity of murders will be between them committed.

I have not been idle neither: I have been scouting among [Page 22]the Lawyers in their pleading hall, where a cause coming to be heard between a rich Userer and an Heir, I skipt into the hearts of six affi­davit men, who swore point blanck for the Userers interest, against what was either truth or equity which makes for the interest of our Kingdom.

Well 'twas bravely done, and for this your care and dili­gence kiss our Proserpines hand, then run to your several stations to perfect what you have partly i [...]tangled: if you meet any of your,

Scen the First.

AM I awake or in a dream? Ha! What dingy Hayloft am I left in now? Am I once more become the miserable Inhabitant of my poor paternal Cottage: Alas! 'tis too true! Is this the end of all my pride to be again reduced to my pristine poverty! How vain is seeming glory! How momentary are all the pleasures that airy spi­rits boast off! Decitful Devil am I thy Spouse and so a witch and have no other habitation but where derision daily laughs me in the face, Why dost thou not build me Castles in the Air that I might throw down Thunder bolts upon the heads of those that durst up braid me? But ha! whats this! O hellish Cruelty! Am I Agatha Shipton, sure­ly no! Where's thy captivating beauty did inchant insinuating Divels! Here's nothing left but the bare bones of a decayed face of four-score years of Age which verifies the Proverb she looks as if the Hag had red her: Then farewel all future expectation of true felicity I must,

How now runaway are you once more come to light agen?

Yes Hellibore.

Bore me no Bores d'you see you are a Sow for boring of me for all your crooked Nose.

Bless me she is strangely altered!

Sure 'tis not she!

Sure my Name is not Hodge: Come we come to bid you Money for the purchase of your Cottage.

Keep your Money I want it not, nor any thing else.

Marry come up Potters are you grown so proud, I have known the time you would have leapt at a crust.

Tormentors be gone and trouble me not.

Be gone, we won't or if we do we will send a whole Legion of Admirators to perplex thee, all the Country shall know of thy Di­vilish deformity.

Are you presumptuous villanies.

Now am I come to supply the Company of those thou wise'y hast dismist and in recompence of my love thou must practice Mur­der, Witchcraft, fatal Prophesies and what not that Hell can boast off.

My former vows enforce me to enact what you desire.

Scene the Second.

NO more of these costly feasts nor go ssipings.

Ha! Sir Oliver alone i'l stand here and lissen.

No, no, I have a Plot to reassume my former an antient way of living.

How will he leave us? O penurious curre!

I'l repose my trust and Confidence in none but in my self.

Yes i'l share with thee villain and put a stop to all thy cunning.

This Letter does prepare the Physick I shortly intend to ad­minister to Shiftwel and his Wife.

Does the plot lye there, then be attentive ears!

This Letter is an Imploration to regain my good wifes fa­vour, with numberless protestations never so disgracefully to live from her.

More Knave thou, but for my own ends ile prevent thee.

But I loose time,

Damn'd Imposture! but ile not rave nor rage but smoothly put a bar to his conspiracy, and see he has left me further instructions to proceed, ile read it.

My Dear.

PRethee pardon what I have done amiss, and though I have been a pro­digal wanderer once more receive me home into thy favour: 'Tis but Justice in mee to be submissive since I am so much guilty of ingratitude to the embraces of so kind a Wife. I protest religiously never to go back into that path of folly wherein I have been so long hedg'd, but post to come to thee, Embrace, Enjoy, Live, and never again to live apart from thee till death seperates me from being

Thy endeared Husband Sir Oliver.

Very good now Ile go place my Engine, and quickly quench thy new desires.

Scen. Third.

HOw easy was I tempted to my ruine! I have a Neece said he, now I know thou hast a fair one two, whose amorus eyes have charm'd my heart and made me subject, to loves Deity! Maria! lovely Maria! to thy beauty I am a Captive and ever dedicate my self to thy service. How the rushing waves of love do tumble and beat upon my tender heart. My eyes are very dimne or almost out with gazing on the Sun whose light is coelestial, Me thinks I am in a dream.

Ha! me thought I heard a heavenly voice singing in the praise of my Maria,

But I mast cease.

My dear friend well met, have I not got a noble colour.

Faith I have been hard at it, but why so melancholly? thou­lookest ill too, prithe the cause?

Truly I am ill, very ill and yet the cause—

What ist prithe tell me?

He is my friend I cannot well deny him, 'tis love.

Love! in what kind

In the best kind, the worthiest kind! A Cordial Honorable and Honest love.

Honest Love! Ha, ha, ha, Pox on such love, and all the [Page 27]Generation of it. Hang honest love, hate honest Women, stick to a Cup of good Sack and live as I do, and thou wilt never do amiss ile warrant thee. Good Money lack go sleep upon't, so good night, to morrow morn ile see you agen and hope to find you in another mood. Honestly in love, Ha, ha, ha!

Scen. fourth.

THis is the only life my brave Belswagger.

True, to spend a life musing at home, Pox on such sotts [...] ­ness.

No, no thank my stars I have thought of better things.

I but what shall we think of to get us a little more money, I have a great fancy to take a ramble to London, and your Fathers name wont gain us credit every where.

Not every where, but in some part of London ile engage it shall, but however being so nigh home Ile make a s [...]ep to him, per­haps [Page 28]he may be orejoy'd to see me and prove liberal.

Provided you'l stay at home and grow reformed.

Ile turn Puritan first.

Nay I cant Imagine thou wilt leave mee

No faith to leave thee in misery would to my conscience be

Enough I'me confident.

Well ile to my Father and return with all speed possible, the mean time let no thoughts discontent thee, for as I have vowed

Scen. Fifth.

WEll little does Moneylack think Maria's my Sister, in the end he shall not doubt of his enterprize, I have left him in good hopes and am stoln to have the other tryal of my Amorous Dame, this is [knocks the door, and now good luck on my side.

Whoe's there.

A friend.

What is your Name.

As you say that is to be thought on: I must pick-out some strange name. Frank heart.

O Sir cry your mercy I remember you and your suit and will be very serviceable to you, if now and then you will suffer me to be blithe and full of merry moods.

Roger where hast been prithee?

At the spiget Sir is it not a very rainy day?

Thou art well wash'd within I perceive, but Roger is your Lady at leisure to discourse, your Lady said I see where she comes!

Then 'tis time for me to be gone.

Ha! see where my Gallant is, I shall be courted certain­ly and perhaps shall yeild.

Madam your humble servant; let your lilly white hand in­rich my lips.

You are very complemental Sir.

Faith Madam I love you for millions of causes and you shall find it so if you p'ease introth dear Lady.

Ile try him a little.

And Ile try thee Ile hold thee a wager ere I have done with thee.

But Sir, you have been a very deboist Gentleman I hear.

By what name pray Madam.

Truly Sir my memory is none of the best I have for­gotten.

So I believe: pray withall forget what you have heard and you shall hear no more of it, and upon that promise, come shall wee agree.

To what?

To do as we would be done unto.

How's that.

I could shew you Madam, with your good likeing.

Some other time I presume Sir will serve.

Nay no more Courtship if you love me Madam.

What call you this pray▪

'Tis my imploration Madam.

You are very fluent, 'tis meer flattery, they are most childish will beleive all that their Suitors say my most Poetical ser­vant!

Most obdurate Lady, was ever widdow so hard to win, sure her late Husband got not her Maiden-head she is so backward.

Adeiu Sir.

Not yet sweet Lady.

Pray trouble me no more with your speeches,

O cruel reply to a Lovers suit!

how to dissemble a little if ever you felt this passions pain, if ever you would pittied be your self, or if you know that love has power to kill, commiserate a heart so swel'd with love for you, that it will quickly break if you deny the justice of my request, and if you are resolv'd to remain Inex­brable, I wish my Fortune yours, and if ever you love you may be served so!

I am but a Woman and these words would move a stu­pid rock to pitty, Sir I can resist no longer, your tongue has magick in't, you have overcome me and enjoy your Conquest. But first your Name.

Frankheart.

And mine Lovefree: then thou Frankheart takes mes Lovefree, without any farther Ceremony.

A match, and one thing more Ile promise

My love to thee shall constant be and pure,

Scene the sixth.

NOw both in mind and form I am a perfect Witch, what hitherto I have done has spread my fame far wider then it is, so that those who before looked upon me as a crack brain'd woman, now be­gin to admire me, and esteem my words as Oracles, especially our English who only come to be resolv'd of what I know will come to pass of which here comes a great one.

Reverend Matron whose all knowing skill our Country ad­mires, part of which for my own interest I humbly come to crave.

Come near Abbot of Beverley, you are not so much disguised but the Fox may be seen through the sheeps skin.

She knowes me upon my life a witch!

'Tis not those Cloathes makes you a Lay person, no more then a long gown makes any man a Lawyer, please you to sit you shall not go away unsatisfied of what you desire.

I fear the downfall of our Abbies, but ere I know my doom, accept this sacred Relique lately come from Rome, a sure pre­servative against all troubles and temptations.

O your Testimony is needless to the wise, of which I thus prophesie.

This is omminous and touches State, thy insolence must be corrected.

I fear she does presage too true, but ere I harbour such a thought of my own downfall Ile cry vindicte on the witch that first induc'd mee too't.

Scene the First.

BUt you must be sure to swear point blanck.

O through an inch bord Sir, lye and swear to it, 'tis the least thing of an hundred, besides what is it Beggars wont do for Money?

Very good but Mum, here comes the Justice and the witch.

Here our Officer has brought the party our warrant did command, Now say what you can aleadge against her and let her answer for her self.

Which shall be nothing

I say Sir she's a witch, and hope to prove it here by testi­mony.

Well declare what can any of you testify against her.

Sir an't please your Worship I have known her ever since [Page 33]she was a Totterdas slut of fifteen, and she alwaies threatned despe­rate things.

Pish this is but talk, can any of you prove what you surmi­sed for the ground of your warrant that she is a witch?

I now to the probat, speak what you can.

Ant please your worship I can safely take my corporal oath that she is a —

Out Rustick are you not ashamed to sneze in the Justices face?

Ant please your Worship I dare take my oath too that she is a —

More impudence! this will ruine me.

Ant please your good Worship to take our oathes, and we will confidently swear she is a —

Divilish conspiracy! an Oath sticks in each throat and none can gulp it out.

Pray Sir what was your meaning to bring these Mechanicks here to deride me?

No Sir but—

But what? know Sir I take it for an affront put upon me, for which these your Testimonials shall all find severe punishment thus to upbraid justice, but first say woman are you guilty of what they accuse you off or no?

No right worshipful Sir, and here I do defie what all of them out of malice have most disgracefully termed me.

Once more speak you, or any, or all of you, can you con­tradict her, can you prove her a Witch?

Yes an't please we can all swear she is a

Out impudent Cattel: Clark drive them in, and then make each persons Min [...]mus to the County Goal, to answer to two In­dictments. The one for upbraiding and derideing mee a Justice of Peace in Goram, the other for fasly accusing Mother Shipton a woeman of good repute and conversation.

O I am undone! pray Sir be merciful.

A thousand thanks to your worship for being just to inno­cence,

'Tis thy desert farewel.

Now have I not plaid a true Lovers part▪

Thou hast.

Fear not these by blows

Scene second.

I'm sorry and yet I cannot choose to laugh at my poor friend Mo­neylacks misfortune: he loves, he loves honesty, nay my Sister too, and yet I blame him: O that men in this world should be wrapt up in such dotage and stupidity to what end? where is their aime? would any man be an Epicure? can he boast himself so without the sense of variety! would he be a Phylosopher? can he imagine to find the stone by beating on one experiment? would he be a Schollar and never turn over a new leaf: O ignorance inexpressible! of which I thank my stars I am but little guilty off: the best of knowledge is experi­ence. A man may guess at many things, but when he has found them experimentally he is confident, so say I, I thought my new provided widdow was much inriched, and now I have found it true, nay my pocket does pronounce 'tis verity it self.

And now having got a second to my Knight, I hope I shall cross the Proverb And between two stooles sit sure:

Scene third.

VVEll was ever Heart so just with Avarice as is the old dotard my Father, who at the approaching of winter must un­dauntedly expect to kick up his heels, and yet to want the charity of crossing my hand with one small mite of Silver, this is cold comfort to carry to my friend, and yet I must return to him: but now I think on't Father since thou art so unkind to give me nothing, ile be so civil to find a means to know when I shall have all, i'me Heir though a wild one: hereabouts lives the good old Mother Shipton, she's wise they say and can presage prittily: this is the door sure ile knock.

Your business Sir.

Sweetheart is the good Mother Shipton within.

But not at leisure as yet, you impart the occasion of your coming to me Sir, I am her secret servant.

Why then prithe dost know Sir Habbakuk Holdfast of this County.

Yes an antient Gentleman, much diseased and lives nere Pomfret.

The very same.

And what of him?

Why prithe ask thy Mistress how long she thinks 'tis possible for him to live.

See where she comes.

Sir I know the party you enqui e off, and concerning whom I thus Prophesie.

So I leave you.

So sweet heart thank thy Mistress.

Nay but pray Sir stay, if you forget to open your purse, I shan't forget to open my mouth: do you think I can live with thanks? the Belly requires meat, and the back cloathing, thank you quoth he, marry come up.

Prithee be not so hot, there's for thee.

Well I hope thanks will suffice you Sir, though it would not me, so farewell Sir.

Flesh I have given her half my stock, I am poor and yet if I have nere so little I can't forbear to be liberal: well Gentillity spi­ced with Poverty is the worst accomplishment a Gallant of this Age, can be invested with: but to the repetition of the Prophesie.

Heaven send the time: now with a heart fraughted with joy.

Scen fourth.

FAith her disposition is most strange.

'Twas easier for to spurn the Cyclops Anvil down, and kick it into Attomes in the Air then to obtain her love.

O think not so.

Have I not cause?

At last after a constant and heard pursuit she may be wone.

Could I but hope so much, did all the Stars malignant Influ­ences threaten Fate opposite to my happiness, I would not deem them worthy of my observation, but persevere till I obtained or fell.

Conjecture still the best.

'Tis easier to advice then to perform.

In these times young Ladies for a while do mantle their affection in dislike, let not an ignorance of Virgins wills disturbe thy breast with weak dispair.

See and exalt your eyes to happiness.

Maria and her Maid, I see a Lute: let us escape the light and it is likely we shall hear her sing.

Now give it me, is it in tune?

Yes Madam.

Forbear a while to play upon the spheers ye servants to the Deities, the Gods will blame you if you keep the air of her all ra­vishing Harmony from their ears.

Now have you heard her resolution.

That she disguizes, not her love you mean.

True and I am most miserable!

But see here she's all alone: now speak to her Ile withdraw and pray for your success.

Thanks good friend: hail Natures most perfect work, and th [...] [Page 38]continual Idea of my admyring Soul! however your poor Adorer Lady with a gracious look of your beloved eyes.

Alas your smile Sir is in vain, for in short, if you'l give me leave, I call to witness every particular instance, and tends to any Christians happiness, that I will never enter into Marriage: and for your saying you must dye for me, I hold it but a common comple­ment of idle Lovers, and therefore wish you so much happiness to live without me.

O be not so unmerciful! had your Mother fairest Lady, In­exorable been, you had not been, nor those crimson Roses ever spread upon your lovely cheeks: has Nature liberally heaped the rairest perfections she could give Mortality to no end? surely no; as you are a daughter of a beautious Mother, she being dead, you in­rich the world unto you by your issue. Be not so cruel then, my fair Maria, let not your tongue degenerate from your form.

Sir you have heard me speak what I intend.

Be not a Tygress Lady.

Sir I must leave you, and leave you this humour, I respect you as you are a Gentleman of my acquaintance, but if any more you trouble me with your Court ship I shall utterly have you: so farewell.

Does a fair face presage a cruel heart! Nature is grown de­crepit sure, and all things sublunary erre against her rule of order.

What is she still obdurate?

Beyond expression!

Yet let not these doubt puzzle you, you will be happy, and enjoy her, I am confident you will: this is a common custome in young hearts.

But this is a fixed Star.

Fixed in your heart it seems, but otherwise I doubt it, herefore in the end doubt not you of your desire.

You have stirred a feeble releif within me, friend that my dear Maria may be warm and I will nourish it to some height,

Scen. Fifth.

CAptain you promised me a new Gown and have broke your word I desire therefore to be acquitted your com­pany.

Pretty Pris. my Tennants are slow in paying their Rents I had not failed thee else, but thou art very fine as you are.

That's without thanks to you, 'tis no cost of yours: I am be­holding to a better friend for't.

But in truth Captain you must become more liberal to my Daughter for the future.

What do you think Ile venture my reputation for your Oaths, flattering words and a little foolish pleasure?

No indeed she must be maintained with other Materials: If she goes not fine and gallant, she must bid farewell for ever to all hollidayes: the Honorable and right Worshipful will not care for her embraces then.

Are you against me too Mother? I thought you had had a greater kindness for me then so.

Indeed Captain you know I have much respected you: but you must think of providing better for my Girl.

I love thee, give me thy hand, and though I never made use of my Credit in that kind, ile vow before my Mother ile take thee up a new Gown to morrow,

Perform't and then you see Priscilla wi'l requite your kind­ness.

Then wee are agreed, ile do it, now will I joak with my re­verend Bawd a little. My wonderful old Mother methinks you are grown merry of the suddain, well is there any wo­man in Europe that can remember the building of the Capitol, I dare pronounce tis you: would I had as much mony as you have spent in Almanacks since you could make use of them, I should be as rich as the grand Govenour of a province.

Well well Captain though you make a mock of my age, you would be glad to live so long your self.

There is but small hopes to imagine hee'l ever arrive to that Antiquity, his debauchness will shorten his daies, besides he's so quarrelsome I wonder he has liv'd till now.

Pish you prate, but is supper ready Mother.

Yes but we must stay for Esquire Hairbrain.

Will he be here?

Yes, and his friend Mr, Swagger.

Long look't for comes at last, Mr. Hairbrain your welcome

Thanks my dear Pris.

Mr.Swaggar you are welcome too.

Mother your daughter lookes exceeding well methinks.

Venus be praised she needs no art of painting, her face al­wayes wears its native colours.

Paint out upon't, I should be loath to dawb my face with oyntment.

But many of as good features, have not so nice a stomack.

I credit you, and have heard many raile against it as if they scorn'd to adulterate their faces.

You women no dissemblers are, but he that can live without you is a happy man.

But we trifle time, Mother lead way wee'l follow come Swag­ger within wee shall find a Mistress for thee.

My Mother has a score or two at your service.

Thanks my fair Priscilla.

Well I must expect little enjoyment of dear Pris. while Hair­brain's here, would I could win her affection to my self I would carry her far enough out of all their reaches. She is Proxrots only child and she's rich.

Scen first,

SEe this Letter will ease the heat of my troubled friend, and with more spirit make him enact what I must desire him to perform to the life: 'Tis now high time to place my Engine, and indeed to work it, Sir Oliver keeps close to his study — 'tis to no good intent.

And I must watch his cunning to prevent

Ile strait to Moneylack and put my design in execution.

But see ye how fortunately he comes, my dear friend read that and then judge of my prevalency with Maria.

Sir having received a perticular account of your worth and quality I am sorry I have so long repaid your affection to me with disdain. I would not have you triumph that I have so recollected my self, nor yet despair in any thing to the contrary, for at present I can only sa­tisfie you that I esteem you as an accomplished Gentleman.

Maria.

Is this her own hand.

Is this mine? I am sorry you guess my friendships to be flattery.

No more, I credit you, and by this means inspired a second breath into a heartless Lover, 'tis beyond the reach of Oratory to de­clare thy gratitude. Nay the well wishes of your friend have the same power to implore the like success in all your own concerns.

You are very bountiful, but now I must make bold to em­ploy you in a business wherein if you fail to be either secret or dili­gent 'twill be my utter ruine.

Then if I be may the destruction fall upon my head, declare.

This it is, when the gossiping was, after dinner steping into the garden I espyed Sir Oliver murmuring to himself, and thinking it to be no goodness; squatted under a bush and heard the Rogues de­sign, very speedily of leaving my wife and returning to his own and [Page 42]with her to remain till death them depart, after he was gone I found [...] Letter (which he had dropt) which was to be sent to his wife with [...] great imploration for pardon for former errours, & protestations of [...]n [...]ire love upon a favourable acceptance. Now to put an obstacle to his intent, I would have you in a Serjeants habit, go and arrest him at my suit upon two actions, one of Trespass, and the other of Battery, (for I'm sure he hath battered my wife) then threaten to carry him to the Counter, and in the interim ile come and make up the business; and assure thee Maria in the bargain. Time and place to meet with him you shall receive in a note from me this even.

Then if I fail to do it to the life call me Hypocrite.

Enough, farewell for the present.

Now for my widdow.

Scene second.

REfuse my Mistriss health, 'tis a crime which no­thing but his death shall expiate have I been ever his continual friend, and am I slighted thus, ile raise all the dreadful furies from the infernal shades to stigmatize him full of my revenge.

Come, come, Ile have no quarrels in my house.

Mum Impudence! Ile meet his fury.

How now Hag, can you hinder quarrels in a Bawdy-house.

If you can, you have more power then a Constable, but let my entreaties beg a reconcilement.

They are in vain and do but exasperate the prosecution of my just revenge advance Sir.

Stay beast unworthy of the name of man, much less unwor­thy thy of the name of Friend, first peruse this letter and then I shall al­lay the seeming confidence you have in your own valour.

Of what moment is extravagancy, or to what end serves a riotus life, seeing both the one and the other are subject to vicissitude and ready to yeild at the least puffe of winde that blowes from a conatry shore! O my disobedience! To forsake the intern love of a Parent [Page 43]for the fruition of thy lascivious company! where is my fathers gold­en Crop, I should have reaped? given to my Uncle whose love is [...] cold to me as death it self. Now hell hound dost thou sec unto what distress by thy allusions I am now driven too, read there how my mi­sery is characted; revenge is sweet. Advance therefore for I am re­solved to send thy base polluted soul into the flames of Phlegeton.

Nay Hairbrain prithee let me perswade thee.

And Swagger let me perswade thee.

3. And Gentlemen pray let me perswade you both.

I expected a more familiar way of scuffling then this.

Out Whores trouble me not.

Methinks I find a sudden alteration within me, affection tha [...] even now was so powerful, is of the sudden turn'd to utter hate, and my heart for bringing forth any fruits of love to Priscilla is as barren a

Well Gentlemen if you are so mute or mad I know not which nor I don't care whether, wee'l be so civil to leave you, my Ladie will find other Gallants to be more gently embraced by, so farewel ha, ha, ha.

Now Sir here take my sword and make a passage for my so [...] that it may leave so vile a habitation as this body.

No here take mine and do me that courtesie,

Pray Gentlemen without being thought too rude, may I de­sire to know the cause of your Agrieveance.

Then know Sir, to this Gentleman my friend bey on expression

By my perswasions to lead an Extravagant life, he has lately lo [...] a fair estate, and on his fathers death bed merited his curses: fo [...] which I thus fall his sacrifice.

For heaven sake forbear: so much a fresh is my love kindle [Page 44]that I have both forgotten nay and forgiven all, your confession to me, since all is past recovery, is a sufficient satisfaction.

Is this not pollicy to delay my death?

By all thats good it is not if you dare credit me.

You may be confident I will.

Then let all pass, we must now joyn prudence to our pover­ty, and by a serious life regain the loss of vertue.

With a heart as full of holy ardencie as those that devoutly implore zealous mercies from their Saints, or as votaries from their Goddesses.

Pray may a third man intervene that has not over vertuously inclin'd himself & make a joynt resolution with you for repentance.

With all our hearts, but what is this.

Hell take Despair it shall never enter into my breast.

Nor mine.

Nor mine but see another apparition!

Hope thee I embrace, and friends let joyn hand and hearts in the height of sorrow to have the greatest Hope, by some learned Authors

Scen third:

NOw am I experienced in the Magical Sciences, as much as ever was the fam'd Medea or Circe. whose cuning has left a wonder to the world, so shall Shiptons too! but to what end? what will the [Page 45]applausive clamour of the world benefit me, when endles torments are my only comfort. But why do I suffer this consideration? ha [...] not my deeds merited the fruit of Hell? but how? Is it a sin to co­vet riches when one suffers the contempt of the world by reason of poverty? yes coveting ambitiously is execrable, but having a heart o­pen to embrace the delusions of the Devil, that, that alore is damna­ble! then detestable Shipton look into the glass of thy infirmities, which are so many they almost work a despair in me to cry peccavi [...] yet have we not powers above that, over hels prevalency are pre­dominant? then will I cleave to them! but is it not too late? sooner I confess would have been better! but surely a heart penitentially incli­ned is not contemptible! then Devil look to thy self, thou thinkest I am thine, but thou shalt find ere long thou art deceived. From thee

Scen fourth.

HA, ha, ha, how I laugh at a poor crew of simple sinners who persue temptation more then it does them: who will scruple to swear dam me, since 'tis Allamode? and who will avoide living vitiously ad­mirable in this world though they purchase Hell in the next? witness poor Shipton whose Name ecchoes out admiration, to whom I have been a small attendant, but for no smal wages, I serve for souls but here she comes.

Ha! heres my soul catcher! now all goodness be my assistance we'ome my Radamon, thou art come just in the nick to accomplish an earnest request I have too thee?

Name it and 'tis granted.

Do't and ile confirm thou art a miraculous Devil! by all the Hellish conspiracy thou ere wast master of, I do conjure thee to empty the Sea and make me sole commandress of all the riches therein lye ex­panded!

Impudent Witch! what has in joyn'd thee to that arrogancy to desire that which all the power Hell could ever boast off never was a­ble yet to grant.

So his nonperformance of

This shall be my plea: why Radamon go to the summe of our contract art thou not my servant.

Yes I have been but now come in my Masters name to com­mand thy soul.

My soul, ha, ha, ha!

Yes thy Soul witch dost laugh.

Yes & does defie thee, know vaunting Devil by hells instigation I have hitherto lead a vitious life I have now found out the way to vir­tue, which to follow I am so undeterminably inclin'd, that no tempta­tions shall withdraw me from the perseverance of so good a resolution.

Conceited woman how dost thou flatter thy self with impossi­bilities: consider thy innumerable frailties, consider thy daily practise of Murder, Witchcraft, fatal Prophesies and what not that has meri­ted hells endless torments: consider these rightly, and thou wilt find they are so pondrous they will weigh down the thoughts of any true felicity.

Delude me no more, begon and tell thy Master, Shipton walks in a path will make her truly happy by avoiding Hell.

Thou lyest, thou art mine, resign thy self to me and that pre­sently or ile raise hels fiery King himself withall his dreadful furies to drag thee to his ever burning pallace!

Do, I dread them not.

Junx elke tu tenon Emon potidoma on Andra.

The cause of this great help thou craves?

See where she stands with such audacity Hell cannot shew the like precedent.

Have you exprest our commands.

Yes and she scorns them.

Shipton thou art mine.

Yes and you can take me.

Seize on her straight.

What are you grown feeble? ile joyn my strength!

What preservative has she got against our power?

Too sure she is sheilded by those powers above, to which ours is impotent!

I must now then conclude this to be the last attempt, still, still, protect me ye

Scen. Fifth.

Now David how thinkest thou of my cunning.

Very well truly Sir, you have a brain ile, say that for you.

Poor Shiftwel it troubles me though. O me what a brave man he was, no meeting at the Horse race, Cocking, Hunting, Shooting or Fowling at which Shiftwel was not a principal Gamester, and compa­nion for the Nobility.

I Sir he has paid deer for those follies, and 'tis but justice that such as soar above their pitch, and will not be warn'd by his example should like him share in the miseries that wait upon it.

Thou sayest right David, and I in pitty have for these few years lent him a helping hand to raise his fortunes, but now for my own self interest sake I must leave him, therefore David run and fetch my boots and bring them to the Inne, ile haste before.

I am gone Sir.

Bless me, sure that is my old Knight that creeps a­long so or my eye-sight failes me!

I arrest you Sir, by the name of Sir Oliver Whorehound.

Ha! 'tis he and arrested. I must down and know the e­vent.

Arrest me Sir at whose suit?

At Mr. Shiftwells suit upon two actions, with two or three ex­ecutions which shall grinde you to powder when I have you in the Counter.

At Mr. Shiftwells suite, thou dost belye him Varlet, he I dare lay will weep when he heres on't.

Yes like a Milstone.

See where he comes you had best tell him so.

Nephew Shiftwel you are come most opportunely to free me from this Band [...]g. I know you gave no way to it nor had you any reason so to do.

Bless me who do I see; Shiftwell is thy Name? O deceitful man!

Are you a Serjeant acquainted with the danger of a rescue, yet stand here prating in the open streets, the Counters sure a safer place to parley in.

Your reason for this disgrace to me?

'Tis but justice in me. The reason you shall know hereafter.

Pray here me speak.

Whilst I like the adder stop my ears, or did I listen, though you spake with the tongue of Angels I am not to be altered.

Pray make me sensible of the offence I have done, if it be a­ny, and I will make the best of my estate to end the difference.

How does my heart now pant bewteen Hope and fear, to know the period of this business,

He shew you some mercy which is this. That I will not tor­ure you with false hopes, but make you know what you shall trust [Page 49]too: I have seiz'd upon your estate already, yet that shall not suff [...] therefore Serjeant do your duty: yet stay Sir Oliver, I have conditi­ons to propose, upon which Ile free you.

Sir I have been at the Inne and finding you not there came back to look you.

My journies stopt now David, Mr Shiftwell you may pro­pose but I imagine the next Tavern, or some other place might be more convenient.

With all my heart lets to the next Tavern, go send for two or three friends and discourse of it there at large.

Ha! a Serjeant on my masters back, Shiftwel has napt him, now all will out as ile go hear.

Now is my shame as evident as day light, O unfortu­nate woman! that I should have the ill-luck above all other men to meet with him, that I fear I shall find more then an honest man: but come what will, I must follow and in my Knights cause outlook the world with confidence.

Now Scrievener read the propositions.

That for the injury designed to Mr. Shiftwell you will free­ly give him a hundred pounds yearly during his life, and after his decease to Maria.

Ha! to Maria, I can't conceive the reason, but ile be silenced till the future.

Secondly to make Mr. Shiftwels wife joynture a hundred pounds per annum more during her life, and lastly to keep his wife and familie twelve years, and if at the twelve years end you intend to leave them fairly to give a quarters warning.

Heres one saies no to that but the rest for your freedome Sir Oliver I must consent too.

Ha! my dear wife.

You have been a hopeful husband, but blame me not if I have paid you in your coyn.

I am amazed.

Nay stare not Mr Frankfort that was pretended, you and I have been a little better acquainted, but not with a thought that your wife and my husband were such sure bedfellowes

Well then wife I hope you'l pardon me.

I do and expect the same from you.

Well I have lost a good generous customer by the bargain, and [...] be contented, but Sir Oliver you freely seal to these articles the last only omitted by your wives in junction.

Withall my heart, upon the giving me a bond for redelive­ry of my estate.

That I will, only one thing more remayns: that upon Ma­ria's acceptance of the person she affects for her husband, you will pay down the marriage portion in your hands remaining.

Most freely.

Then pray witnesse the sealing and delivery.

Now Sir Oliver what were have done we can't undoe, therefore Mr. Moneylace: discover your self and accept my Sister Maria for your wife.

And I accept him as my only happiness.

Dearest Lady you have raised me to a joy beyond my thoughts may heaven requite you for your kindness, and I wear out my life to do you service.

Bless me here are wonders in ridles.

Sir Oliver I must crave your pardon for my rudeness.

There is a general pardon granted, and now good wife lets see how our ends will meet agen.

I accept thee freely.

Then we are all friends.

I arrest you Sir.

Arrest him Villain?

Pray Brother with bold a little, at whose suit?

At this Gentlemans.

Then Ile end all. My noble Uncle!

I have a request to take my security for this Gentlemans debt, he is become my brother.

Your Brother?

Even so sir, to morrow I'm to marry this Gentlewoman his sister: release him therefore pray sir for your nephews sake.

That I will Serjeant be gone I have satisfied you.

And pray Gentlemen pardon my ignorance of all these proceedings and Nephew I wish you much happiness.

I thank you Sir, come brother now to make all friends.

Now lets in and drink each others health in

Scene Ult.

TO be sure sir the next Nap she takes if I get not the jew­el ab [...]ut her Neck from her: I dare promise to give you your purse of gold agen, and that would go a little against my conscience.

Be very vigilant and fail not, then ile make thee Mistres of all I have promised thee.

Especially for my having you sir for my Husband.

O I can't avoid that, I love thee too well my pritty smug face,

I thank you sir.

But I may stay thee too long, thou maist miss an oppotunity: fail not to meet at the place I've appointed thee.

Truly sir I will not,

Sure this plot cannot fail, which that it may not

Now let me consider of the preferment that will quickly fall upon me, must I that have been obeysive to an old womans hu­mour become a Mistris of command: must I that have scoulded, nay many times scufled for a penny, become Mistris of a purse of Gold? must I that have many times stole out in an even to kisse an Hostler, be embraced by a Gentleman, a handsome Gentleman; with a fine head of hair, neat body, straight leg, nay and another pritty proper­ty worth all the rest, and then thou art fitted for a Husband Abigal ile warrant thee. But I have heard our next neighbour goody Belch of­ten complain of her Husbands beating her, but I saith ile pummel my [Page 53]Gentleman if he beats me, but let me see, I must finde out a gate to carry out my Gentility, will this Gate do?

No it sents too much of the serving maid, well then so

No I stretch out my belly too much and that needs not, for my Hus­band does promise to get me with child quickly, and then e'faith my belly will stretch out it self.

O this then will serve

Ha! huswife is this your making haste when I send you of an errand, what purse have you got there? and what fine Gentleman are you to have for your Husband?

Pray Mistris be not angry and on my bended knees I will re­late the story.

Cease that Ceremony and begin.

Why truly forsooth at the Corner of this field I met with a very Gallant Gentleman who gave me this purse of gold, and promised to morrow morn to marry me, if I would but steal that jewel about your Neck from you.

Indeed forsooth, well open your purse and tell your gold.

O heaven Mistris 'tis all stones and dirt,

Yes and he that gave it thee a Devil, for none else would insi­nuate thee to rob me of this jemne of my true happiness.

A Devil! O how I find my fears encrease.

Go in Girle ile follow and protect thee.

This was Radamons device: but arm me still ye powers de­vine that no Devils instigation does betray me: protect me even now for I find a sudden slumber seizes me.

Ha! what's this a book? the cover bears the type of innocence, ile ok in it.

Shipton

O endless comfort! now attempt what you can proud Devils, but [...]s! what noise is this?

Wee know thy power and thy magick skill, and for the en­trease of the same, we present thee with this paper wherein is a spell of Prophesie to fore tell of what was, what is, and whats to come. In his paper there is another spell powerful to command any spirit of w at nature soever,

Well I accept your presents but spurn at your society, all your emptations are airy and too weak to besiedge my fortyfied soul.

Was ever Devil gull d so:

So let them roare.