THE WALKS OF ISLINGTON and HOGSDON, WITH The Humours of Woodstreet-Compter.

A Comedy, As it was publikely Acted 19. days toge­ther, with extraordinary Applause.

Never Printed before.

Written by Tho. Jordan, Gent.

Carpere vel noli nostra, vel ede tua, Mart. Epig.

LONDON: Printed by Tho. Wilson at the sign of the Three-Foxes in Long-lane. 1657.

TO The true Lover of Ingenuitie, The much Honoured, RICHARD CHEYNEY, of Hackney, Esquire.

SIR,

IN those jocund dayes, when ingenious Spirits were not daunted to behold the Physiognomy of their Minds and Man­ners in the Mirrour of a Dramatick-Poem, this Comedy gained the success of a good Censure, and received more Acceptation then I thought it merited: Yet since the importunacy of Friends hath prevailed with me (in this tempestuous season) to print it; Prudence hath well instructed me to shrowd it under the undoubted safety of your Protection; because I am assured that the glittering influence of your bright Approbation, will, as the rising Sun doth gild all Trees he looks upon, set such a lustre on these Leaves, that Time armed with En­vie shall never extinguish; such lawful confidence hath he assumed that wisheth your everlasting prosperity, and de­sireth no other temporal Title, then to be found in the List, though the least of,

SIR,
Your greatest Honcurers, THO. JORDAN.

Dramatis Personae.

  • Mercurio, a Lover of Splendora.
  • Flylove, A Humorist, Lover to Bellaflora.
  • Rivers. Love and brother to Mrs. Trimwel.
  • Wildblood. A Companion to Flylove, and nephew to Bella.
  • Sir Reverence Lamard, Brother to Splendora, disguis'd like a Frenchman.
  • Mr. Nice, Father to Splendora.
  • Pimpwel, A creature to the young Gallants.
  • Mr. Trimwel, An old jealou Citizen.
  • Mr. Hemlock, A cheating Vintner.
  • Six Fidlers. Three Keepers.
  • Two Serjeants. The one of them Tripes.
  • Drawers.
  • Six prisoners.
  • Old Jones, A Cobler.
Women.
  • Splendora, The Mistress to Mercurio.
  • Bellaflora, The Love to Flylove..
  • Mrs. Trimwel, A Citizens wife, and sister to Rivers. Mistris of the Kings-head at Hogsdon.
  • Mrs. Hemlock, A Vintners wife.
  • Mrs. Light, A Whore.
  • Drowzy, A Kitchin-wench.

To his much deserving Friend Mr. Thomas Jordan, on his excellent Comedy, entituled, The Walks of Islington and Hogsdon, With the Humours of Woodstreet-Compter.

HOw have I task'd my self that now must clear
A debt that's due almost this twenty year?
And, by your large improvements since, do finde
You much before, and my self cast behinde,
In such a weak condition, who can
Expect full payment from a Bankerupt man?
Yet know no empty shaddows had the Art,
To catch my prayses, but your known desart;
Though love obligeth love, the nobler tye
Of worth by knowledge is mere fast and high;
With Poetry you have Musick, and as soon
As you have made the Song, you set the Tune;
Where both in measure so exactly dance,
Numbers court Numbers, Ayrs do Words advance;
Had I but room, I could declare how clean
Your Fancy wrought, which did adorn your Scaene
In several Plots, and Plays, this here exprest,
Will speak the noble Linage of the rest.
These Walks 'twixt Islington and Hogsdon will,
(Like those 'twixt Tempe and Parnassus Hill)
Show how the Muses in their sportfull rage,
Set all the Town a Walking to your Stage,
With so much Wit, and Art, and Judgement lay'd,
That nineteen days together they were play'd.
Now by the bounty of the Press we be
Possess'd of that which we before did see,
Not pleasing onely nineteen times read o're,
But nineteen Ages, or till Time's no more.
R. C. in Art. Magist.

The Prologue.

THe Author (as late custome hath thought fit)
Makes me the Prologue to his wandring Wit;
The Gate into his Walks, through which you may
Behold a petty prospect of the Play;
A Play of Walks, or you may please to rank it,
With that which Ladies love, A running Banquet:
And, though the Scoene be Islington, we swear,
We will not blow ye up with Bottle Bear;
Cram ye with Cream and Fools, which sweetly please
Ladies of Fortune and young Prentices,
Who (when the Supervisors come to find 'um)
Quake like the Custard which they leave behind 'um.
Yet to exalt your spleen, he hath invented,
Persons that you'l all know when they'r presented;
Nay they shall know themselvs, and that is more,
It may be then you ever knew before.
We'l shew you things not taken out of Hist'ries,
A loyal Lover, and a grateful Mistriss,
A futile Frenchman (acted to the life)
A jealous husband and a jocund wife,
That kisseth, danceth, tipples like a Tench,
A Chamber-Gallant and a Kitchin-wench;
A jovial Cobler (or a Quibler rather)
A Catchpole that arrested his own father;
A crew of Ranters to the Gaole committed,
A dead man rais'd, a Usurer out-witted,
A Prison-Pimp discover'd and detected,
The Compter character'd, the Hole dissected.
Here my Commission ends, lest I betray
The Plot, and shew the Clock-work of the I lay:
Your liking will (like to the Suns bright rays)
Lighten the Gaole, and plant these Walks with Bays,
Where you will finde some Flowers as well as stalks,
Then lend's your hands, we'l lead you to the Walks,

The Walks of Islington and Hogsdon, &c.

Actus primus, Scoena prima.

Enter as at the Sarazens-head in Islington; Jack Wildblood, Frank Rivers, and Stephen Flylove; to them Tavern-Boyes.
Wildblood.

BOy Drawer.

Rivers.

Drawer, Sirrah.

Within.

By and by, anon, anon Sir.

Wildbl.
Why thou Parte-per-villain,
Drawer and Tapster,
Are you so taken up with your Holy­day Ghests,
A Gentleman can have no attendance?
Enter Drawer.
Drawer.

Attendance? Yes Sir, What Wine will it please you to drink?

Rivers.

That is, which of three sorts will ye drink, Sack, White, or Claret.

Draw.

Nay (with your favour Sir) we have more va­riety then those.

lylove.

Well then Sir, without farther disputation, bring White Wine, and let it be right.

Drawer.

I shall Sir.

Exit Drawer.
Wild.

Well Frank, and how doth thy little Mistris?

Rivers.

What little Mistris?

Wild.

Why she that is the rarest, the fairest that ever was Maid, Jack Trimwel the Chyrurgeons wife.

Rivers.

Mum, not a word, our plots are almost discovered, I have kept some villains company that have betray'd me to the jealous Coxcomb (her husband) she'l be here presently.

Wild.
[Page]

Who hast sent?

Rivers.

My old Mercury, Alexander Pimpwel.

Fly.
Look, you can no sooner talk of Pimpwel,
But the Drawer comes; sirrah, have you any
Ent. Drawer with Wine.
Whores in the house?
Drawer.

I cannot tell Sir, I'le ask the Fidlers.

Fly.

Hark you sirrah, have you any females in the house?

Draw.

Yes Sir, there's half a score in several rooms.

Fly.
Why you rogue, do you doubt whether there be
Any whores in the house then?
Rivers.

Why thou rebel to Chastity, dost thou conceive the stock of Females vertue is so extreamly wasted, that in so small a number as they are, the most part must be vitious?

Fly.

I, I vow if there were but two there, though my Mother were one.

Wild.

And thy Aunt tother.

Fly.

I mean so, the other should be one of my Aunts.

Enter Alexander Pimpwel and Mrs. Trimwel.
Rivers.

Little Betty, your humble servant.

Riv. salutes her.
Mrs. Trim.

But hark you Frank, what Gentlemen are these?

Riv.

Friends of mine, most dear and intimate, salute them.

Mrs. Trim.

Oh, y' are a pretty Gentleman to send for me into company.

Wild.

Lady your humble servant.

He kisseth.
Flyl.

Turn to me hony, and give me a kiss.

Mrs. Trim.

Turn to you Sir, which part? my face is to­wards you already.

Fly.

By the Cherry-lip of Venus, you are wondrous witty, Lady.

Mrs. Trim.

I am glad Sir you so apprehend it.

Fly.

'Tis not my apprehension can mend it.

Rivers.

Is she not wondrous fair?

Fly.
I dare not tell you,
For should I grow so passionate in praise
As her worth merits, I might justly fear
Your fondness of her would suspect my friendship;
For in this age Experience makes it common,
He needs must love that doth but praise a woman.
Rivers.
[Page]
You wrong my friendship to suppose I doubt you.
It were an injury to her and you;
The base suspect from neither is exempted,
To think that you should tempt, or she be tempted.
Wild.
You are full of Noble confidence, I think she
Loves you well.
Rivers.
Or she doth well dissemble,
But here's the wo, what bondage is he in,
That lives in love, when all his love is sin?
Mrs. Trim.
Gentlemen, doth my coming cause this division among you?
Such seperation in so few a number hath been unusuall.
Wild.
Your coming Lady rather makes an unitie,
Frank Rivers I'le begin a round to thy Mistris.
Rivers.

Let it come.

Fly.

I vow I'le pledg't a brimmer:

Sings.
My Mistris hath a Rosie Check
her eye-brows they are Jetty,
Then drink off a brimmer
to he that doth —
For tis a Health to Betty.
Enter Drawer.
Draw:

Mr. Flylove is your name I pray Sir.

Fly.

Yes, so they say Sir.

Draw.

There's a woman without would speak with you.

Fly.

Prethee what manner of piece is it?

Draw.
A good homely creature Sir, some servant I believe,
A Maid-servant I dare swear she is not,
For her nose and belly do almost meet.
Fly.

A strange creature, either she hath a ve­ry

aside.

long nose, or a terrible great belly, and now I talk of a great belly, I pray Heaven it be not the Kitchin-wench I was dabling with­all once, when drink and a foolish humor pos­sest me (I heard she was with Child) if it be,

Exit Drawer.

I am undone for ever, stay I'le go out to her.

Ent. Drowzy.
Drowzy.
[Page]

No Sir, she I come in to you.

Fly.

Prethee honest Drowzy.

Drow.

Honest Drowzy I, I was honest Drowzy before I knew you.

Fly.
Nay but prethee Drowzy that was once honest,
Let me speak with thee in private.
Drow.

No Sir, you have spoken too much in private with me already, Ecce signe, and Jle speak to you here Sir; for all your fine Lass there in the silk, I might have been as fine as she, and yaw had kept your word.

Wild.

How now Stephen, what's the matter?

Drow.
What's that to yaw sir,
Pray meddle with your own business.
Fly.

Prethee be gone Jack, 'tis an honest Lass comes with an errand to me.

Drow.

An arrant, what arrant am I, I come to speak to you Sir, and to have satisfaction for the wrong you have done me, ye shall nere carry it to heaven nor to hell.

Enter Drawer.
Fly.
What the Devil shall I do, Drawer?
Prethee what hast thou brought me here, a mad wench?
Drow.

What would you have sirrah?

Gives the Boy a box oth' eare.
Draw.
A pox o' your greasie fingers,
An you were not with Child —
— If she be mad, I pray Sir do you tame her.
Exit.
Rivers.

How now Stephen, what's the business?

Drow.

What care yaw sir, you may go to yawr Gentlewo­man in the long locks again.

Mrs. Trim.

What is the woman mad?

Drow.

Mad! no she's as wel in her wits as you are, though she is not so fine forsooth.

Enter Pimpw.
Pimpw.

Mrs. Trimwell, as I live your Husband's here.

Mrs. Trim.

Marry Heaven defend.

Pimpw.

He's coming up stayrs.

Mrs. Trim.

What will become on's.

Pimpw.

There's but one way, and thats this, here is a door goes down another pair of stayrs, whilst he comes up, do you [Page]run down, you may easily escape unseen by the back-side of Islington. Let me alone here.

Fly.

I, I, come let's go, I think the devil haunts us to day.

Drow.
Pray whither go yaw sir,
I ha' more to say to you then so.
Fly.

Prethee honest Pimpwel keep this mad wench from me, and do you pay the reckning, you know our old rendezvouz.

Pimpw.

Well, well, let me alone.

Exeunt Wildblood Mrs. Trim. & Flylove, manent Pimpw. with Drowzy.
Drow.

Keep me back! sirrah Ile set all my fingers in your eyes, if you keep me back, though your name be Pimpw. you shal not keep the door at this time.

They both strive. Enter Trimwel.
Trimw.

How now what's the matter? vanished, ha all vanished, only one rogue and a dirty whore, what are you, what are you, pray turn about?

Drow.

Dirty whore, you lye like a base rogue, I am as honest a woman as thy wife, what come you for?

Trim.

As honest as my wife, I, I, it may be so good Por­pus, I speak not to you, pray Sir where is all your company gone, where's my wife.

Pimpw.

Your wife Sir.

Trim.

My wife Sir, I my wife Sir.

Drow.

Dost thou call me Porpus, you may be ashamed to liken a woman to a beast, I am as like a Christian as thou art, or any of thy kin, my father was as honest a man as any in Warwickshire, and his daughter shall not be made a fool yet as.

Trim.

Wher's my wife? what secret holes have you?

Pimpw.

What do you ask me for your wife Sir, I know her not, nor you?

Enter Drawer.
Draw.

Anon, anon Sir, by and by, did you call? how now what's become of the company was here, who payes the Reckoning?

Trim.

Hey day, what have they left their Reckoning to pay, they were in mighty hast it seems?

Drow.

Was the woman in the black Guown yawr woife Sir?

Trim.

Yes, which way went they?

Drow.
[Page]
Marry 3. Gentlemen carried her down them stayrs,
You were best make haste after 'um, or they'l
Make you a Coock old afore you come, and then
You'l lose the sport.
Trim.
He follow presently, I guess where to find them.
If I cannot overtake them.
Exit Trim.
Drow.
By the masse Ile follow too, for my Gentleman
Is amongst them; Ile teach him to turne
Up wenches bellies, and give them no sartifaction.
Exit Drow.
Pimp.

Well you have your reckoning Drawer.

Draw.
To a farthing Sir, if you'l stay Sir, Ile give
You one pinte, because you shall remember the
Sarazens head in Islington.
Pimp.
I cannot stay now, I faith sirrah, but next time
I come this way.
Draw.

Well Sir, you are welcome, by and by, I come, I come.

Exit Draw.
Pimpw.

So, so, a bad shift's better then none; oh the rage his head is filld with for his wife, and the belly full of vexa­tion she has to find Mr. Flylove. Pox of all fooles, I wonder what mad folly posses'd him to lye with this dirty, greasy kichen-wench, was his appetite so sharp set, that he must needs be lapping in the Dripping-pan? well, Ile follow them; I know their old haunt (the Kings-head at Hogsdown) Jealousie hath many eyes, I must prevent the searcher: If all my plots hit right, Ile make the Cuckolds horns hang in his light.

Exit.
Actus primus, Scaena secunda.
Enter Marcurio and Splendora.
Mercu.
My fair Splendora, though my fortunes are,
Humble as he that ownes them; yet I can
[Page]Love thee with holy ardencie; devoutly
As zealous men in prayer do their Saints,
Or Votaries their Goddess.
Splend.
I know you want not wit to coyn a passion,
And pray (with all Mercurio) conceive,
I know how many symtoms of true love,
A Parasite (in service to his Mrs.)
Can use to gain his end; 'tis not a sigh,
Dissembled sorrow in a far straind tear,
The folded Arms; Encomiums compos'd,
With many interjections, nor the trick,
Of praising what she's pleased with, can move me
To the least faith, he whose slow tongue speaks least,
In Love or sorrow oftentimes means best.
Merc.
I am sorry you should think I doubt your knowlege
I know you have a soul as full of Raies,
As Delphean Phaebus in oraculous glory;
You have divinity enough to see,
The purest love from nicest flattery,
Or I should ne'r affect you, tis my thought,
That she whom flattery can purchase to me,
By one more subtil may be flattered fro me.
Splend.
You give a large account of your pure thoughts,
And I beleeve thee with such confidence,
As to not do't, were heresie; There
Resign thee all the intrest I hold dear,
In this weak frame.
Merc.
That shall contain us both,
Our hearts shall be one individuall essence,
To which we'l frame like passions, like affections,
By this divinest Metomorphosis,
The Gods (well pleas'd) shall terminate our lives,
Both at one Expiration in good age,
Season'd and fit for glory, more Divine,
Where in one or be our unity shall shine.
Ent. Mr. Nice.
Nice.
Who's here (undone) Mercurio and my daughter
Embracing? Changes Kisses? I shall part you.
Splend.
[Page]

My Father.

Nice.

Splendora, your Mother calls you.

Splend.
I am sorry Sir I have such faulty ears, as not
To hear till your love please to tell me,
I attend her.
Exit Splend.
Nice.

Sir tis to you that I direct my speech.

Merc.

I shall attend Sir what your speech directs.

Nice.
To this intent I frame it, whats the cause
You make it all the business of your time
In visits to my house? though uninvited,
I do not say you'r an unwelcome guest,
But till I know the motive of your coming,
I shall be cautious in your entertainment.
Merc.
Your words do bear a strange suspect in them,
And this to me, the Son of him that was
Once your best friend; whose love hath made you rich,
The manner's somewhat strange.
Nice.
I shall be plainer,
I disaffect your neerness with my daughter,
Splend. stands within the Arras.
I have beheld loose kisses fond embraces,
Her sighes to eccho yours, such wantonness
As may not fit a pair of single creatures,
Much lesse you two, considering the distance.
Sir to be brief, I do suspect you love her.
Merc.

Oh nere suspect so Sir, you may be sure on't.

Splend.

Why this is honest truth, fine right down dealing.

Nice.

And she loves you.

Merc.

I hope she will in time Sir.

Nice.

Tis well Sir, lend me your eare.

Merc.

Your pleasure.

Splend.
I fear this whispering portends no good,
Here's pen and paper, Ile appoint our meeting,
Though we shall misse that ceremonious way,
Of lovely parting we were wont to have,
Ile find occasion to deliver this.
Nice.

Nay which is more, you are a riotous man.

Splend.

My deare Mercurio.

She writes.
Nice.
And let me tell you Sir, my Child and wealth,
[Page]Shall not be both expos'd to your profuseness
Therefore (by my admonishment) pray leave her.
Splend.

Meete me to morrow.

Writes agen.
Merc.

Sir did you ever love?

Nice.

Yes.

Merc.

But did you e're affect a Virgin truly?

Nice.

As man can do.

Merc.

When.

Splend.

To morrow in the afternoon.

Writes agen.
Nice.
When time and love had made me capable
Of woman and her vertues.
Splend.

In the green long walk by Newington.

Writes.
Merc.
Was not her presence all your heaven on earth,
And then her absence brought such sickly thoughts,
No novelty could mitigate.
Nice.

Very true.

Merc.
With that affection I esteem your daughter.
Just such a heaven her blest society,
And such a hell her absence, had we not
By some diviner inspiration,
A little prospect to eternity,
I should believe all joyes of soul were her:
The most indulgent Mothers never lov'd,
Their fair ligitimate Babes with such a fondness,
As I do your Splendora.
Nice.

You are very bountifull in your expression.

Merc.
Too niggardly, her goodness merits more
Then I have worth to know, or tongue to utter;
I think her vertues all are infinite,
And not to be examin'd, I have searcht,
With most ingenious and industrious boldness,
To take the height of her perfection,
But forc'd with admiration to retire,
For still as I drew neer her soul flew higher.
Splend.

Your constant heart Splendora.

Writes agen.
Nice.
You have exprest her merit and your love,
And had you an estate equall to either,
With worldly providence and care to use it,
[Page] I should esteem your motion, as you are;
Your polyte phrases cannot work on me,
Nor shall they on my daughter, whose obedience
Must be conformable to my dispose.
Enter Splend
Splend.

Did you call Sir.

Nice.
No,
But since your diligence hath got such wings,
Stay and take leave of your kind visitant,
And be not tedious.
Splend.

Well Sir.

Nice.
I have some busines may concern your good,
Which you cannot conceive.
Splend.
I do believe you.
You see my dear Mercurio, how adverse
Softly.
My Father is, time's short, read that, farewell,
We'l meet agen.
Merc.

This parting is my hell.

Exit Merc.
Servant.

Sir the French Knight is come,

Enter a servant.
Sir Reverenee Lamard.
Nice.

Wait on him in.

Ser.

I shall Sir.

Splend.

Oh, my torment!

Enter Sir Reverence and Wildfire his Page.
Nice.

Noble Sir Reverence, your humble servant.

Sir Rev.
Tres humble Serviture Monsieur.
A vostre Serviture Madam.
Nice.
Sir you too seldome grace us with your visits,
Although our country custome cannot yield,
That fair and ceremonious entertainment
You French men use; believe me you are welcome.
Sir Rev.
Gramercie Monsieur de mon ceuir,
Vat you name de Madam your dater a.
Nice.

We call her Sir Splendora.

Sir Rev.

Spent whora?

Nice.

Splen do ra.

Sir Rev.

Split whore a.

Nice.

The name is some what hard Sir.

Sir Rev.

Begar so it is, Split, Split, Split whore a.

Nice.
[Page]

Splen.

Sir Rev.

Splen.

Nice.

Do.

Sir Rev.

Do.

Nice.

ra.

Sir Rev.

ra.

Nice.

Splen do ra.

Sir. Rev.

Splen do ra.

Nice.

Right Sir.

Sir Rev.

Madam Splen do ra, will you give Sir Reverence, Leave to kisse beshide your sheeke.

Splend.

Let it be but of one side I beseech you Sir, I have lately been troubled with the Tooth-ake.

Nice.

Ile leave you sir to opportunity.

Rises.
Sir Rev.

Gramercie Monseir, vostre serviteur.

Vildfier.
Wild.

At your backe Monseir.

Exit Nice.
Sir Rev.

Allo allo.

and wild.
Wild.

I am gon Sir.

Exit.
Sir Rev.

Madam your fadra say to me he would have me take you for my wife, my Lady, my Madam, my Madam Lamard;

Splend.

Did my father bid you put me in hope of these phantasticke titles?

Sir Rev.

Fantasie, begar be brave title to be wife to Sir Reverence Lamard.

Splend.

To be your wife Sir Reverence?

Sir Rev.

Awee, and Sir Reverence to be your husband.

Splend.
I thank you Sir.
I hope that uinon will happy prove;
Where Sir Reverence is the beginning of love,
Sir Rev.

Begar dat was right, me love you out of all cry, You shall be a Lady, when we have marry, wee'l go to Parry, begar was de brave City of the World, me will have you dresse like de Frensh Madam, and ride in your Carrosh, begar dis English Dresse is noting; 'tis not a le mode France, den me vill shew you de brave Pallace of de King, you never see such state in your life, Oh brava, brava; and den.

Splend.
Pray stay there Sir.
I wonder that a Knight of your vast wealth,
In your owne Country could not find a faire one,
Worthy to meet your merrit; I may doubt
You are not what you would have me conceive,
Or my too credulous father is inform'd,
[Page]And did your judgment, sympathize with mine,
I would not wish you to adventure marriage,
With any Lady of another Nation,
There is a fitness to be found in love,
Which very far transcends wealth wit or beauty,
By him that keeps me for a better end,
I would not be your Mistris, could you give,
All Paris, for Joynture; The truth is I am engaged.
Sir Rev.

Begar den you shall be no Lady.

Splend.

I shall be contented with my fortune.

Enter to them Nice and Wildfire.
Nice.

How is't Sir Reverence, what is my daughter plyant,

Sir Rev.

Begar your dauter say she will no have me, if I Shall give all Pary for a zhoynture.

Nice.
You must give Virgins license to be Nice,
Things easily purchased are not valuable,
Is it their own worth or their scarcity,
That sets so high a price on Jewells think you.
Sir Rev.

Begar your dauter be foolish to slight me, She bid me love de frensh Lady, begar so me can.

Nice.

I hope she hath not angerd you Sir Reverence.

Sir Rev.

Begar is vill know me can have de brave Lady in France.

Nice.

I do not question't Sir, she is too peevish.

Sir Re.
Begar me have scorn a Countesse in France, and
Have had two three love letter from a Doushesse,
Since I came to Englant, your dauter no know
Vat J am, she be foole beggar — Vildfire.
Wild.

Monsieur.

Sir Re.

Donne moy me manteau.

Gives him his Cloake.
Wild.

Awy Monsieur vostre service.

Nice.

I hope you will not leave us so Sir.

Sir Re.

Begar me vill stay no longer your dauter a scorn my love.

Nice.

Be not so discontented good Sir Rev. all shall be to your wish, I have prepar'd a course banquet for you Sir Rev.

Sir Rev.

She scorn a my love.

Ex. omnes, manet Splend.
Splend.
This fool it seems is noted to be rich,
[Page]What's that to me? In dignity a Knight,
A Knight Sir Reverence, then he is of France,
The onely man of fashion (from whose Countrey
All things are acceptable, no disease excepted)
Let him go seek a choise in his own Nation,
French feats grow stale, I'le have some newer fashion;
I'le learn to love for worth, not one whose flashes
Blaze much, and are at one time flame and ashes,
Give me a man whose love is built upon
Eternal vertue and perfection,
Who loves for mental worth, not outward show,
And such a one is my Mercurio.

Actus secundus, Scaena prima.

Enter Drowzy and Trimwel.
Trimw.

Art sure thou sawst them go this way?

Drow.

Sure, yes sure enough, I'm sure they cross'd this field, went o're that stile, and I am much deceived if I did not see Pimpwel peep out of yonder Tavern window.

Trimw.
That's the Kings-head I know't,
Oh for some queint disguise,
My jealousie hath yet no occular proof,
These two years have I wandred in this maze,
And still been blinded by her sublil sleights?
That Rivers is the man I most suspect,
And yet I dare not think he wrongs my bed,
The very thought bred in a jealous breast,
Is proof enough, and then were he defenc'd
With Devils I would end him;
Oh! we vain men covet most to see
What we would not, my eyes can take no rest;
How many Moonshine nights and Summer evenings,
In various shapes have I walkt out to find her,
But never could?
Drow.
[Page]

Would I had never seen the face of Mr. Flylove.

Trim.
Thou hast even got, thy belly full of mischief too,
But prethe do not cry out i'th fields, though I'm
A Surgeon, I shall make but a mad midwife,
Thou hadst better repare to the City, and quietly,
For a month hire the next Cage is to be let, you
May buy a bed in Smith-feild, they come to Town,
In Cart-loads.
Drow.
No Sir, I know you'l lend me a room for one month,
I'le enquier for your house when I come to London,
How farr do you live from Cuckolds haven.
Trim.

A pox on you for a whore, you have wit enough to jeer though you had not to keep your Maiden-head.

Drow.
I pray Sir, is it not your black bird that sings,
J cannot keep my wife at home, my wife at home.
Trim.

Out you greazy kitchen whore.

Drow.

Why thou foole, is not better to have such a Greazy piece as I am, then to have a curious fine wife, and cannot come neer her.

Trimwel.
The whore sayes true, how now who comes here,
Musitians very good, I have a plot,
Come into my head, which by these fidlers,
Enter 5. or 6. Fidlers.
Meanes I'le put in practise, hark you,
Honest Fidlers (Musitians I should call you)
I am a little Musicall my self, Gentlemen
Whither Croud you so fast.
Fidlers.

Sir we are sent for to play to Mr. Rivers at the Kings-head.

Trim.

Frank Rivers.

Fid.

The same Sir.

Trim.

Who playes the Citterne.

Boy.

That do I Sir.

Trim.

Very good, I have a plot that shall get you double the mony you expect.

Fid.

How is that I pray Sir.

Trim.

Why look, Franke Rivers is my only Companion, I would now steale upon him in the middle of's mirth dis­guised like one of you, I have a false beard in my pocket, I'le carry the Base, counterfeit to be blind, and that boy shall lead me, and in the conclusion he shall pay you for the jest.

Fid.
[Page]

With all our hearts Sir.

Trim.

Drowzy what will you do?

Drow.

Ile even home to London, but if you see Mr. Flyloeve tell him I'le serve him such a trick as he saw in's life time, I'le warrant him.

Exit.
Trim.

Farewell good Drowzy. Come Gentlemen let's a­bout this business; Aha wife, yfaith I shall over-reach you now.

Sings.
I have been a Fidler these fifteen year,
And never was put in the Stocks before,
If an good fellow will give me some Beer,
I'le Fiddle and fuddle, and ner'e give o're.
Exit.
Actus secundus, Scaena prima.
Enter Rivers, Wildblood, Flylove, Mrs. Bellaflora, and Mrs. Trimwell.
Fly.

Fair Lady you are welcome, I shoul salute you by your name if I knew it.

Bella.

My name is Mary Fair-chaste.

Fly.

Fair and chast too, impossible; it is a Paradox to me.

Bella.

Is it such wonder to be fair and chaste Sir?

Fly.

No, no, 'tis no such wonder, A fair Cabinet should contain a fair Jewel; but since we have had poyson in guilt bowls, killing Perfumes in rich Gloves, Heresie in religious exact habit, and Treason in the well-seeming gravity of State, we put small trust in form; but what do I trouble you with these things, let's drink, sing, dance, and be merry boyes;

We come to be merry, &c.
Sings.

Gentlemen, what shall we do for anoyse of Vagrants, I have a dancing desire to exercise my heels.

Wild.

I have sent for Musick, but we want a woman.

Fly.

Its impossible; Drawer.

Ent. Draw.
Draw.

Did you call Sir?

Fly.

Intreat your Mistris hither.

Draw.
[Page]

I shal Sir, she prevents my service, she's here already.

Fly.

How doth my Madona? my Belladossa? my Ent. Mrs. Sommer sinner, the Conntesse of Hogsdowne.

Exit Drawer.
Mrs.

You give me many stiles Mr. Flylove.

Fly.

I have come over as many more stiles to behold thee my Queen of the Kings-head. Hark you; what rate holds womens flesh? in breif hast thou ever a peice of Impenitence, that will be sociable, and will desire, only her pleasure for her paines, if she can dance well, wee'l bear with any im­perfection else; thou shalt not lose all; wee'l seem to want the knowledg of thy over-reckoning, and pay thee. You know we are noe Cittizens, that (to ease our bodies and pre­serve our pockets) keep a due Accompt of every quart and paper, by unbuttoning our doublets; or doubt our own me­mories by calling many reckonings at one sitting.

Mrs.

You are very merry Mr. Flylove, but as I am a vertu­ous sinner, you could never have chose a time to have found me so unprovided in a whole summer, there is but one wo­man in the house, and she is with a French man, yet I believe his greatest business is over, if you will allow of his company you may have hers, nor will he be any interruption to you, for call what you will he'l pay freely, and be as merry as you will give him leave.

Fly.

Have they paid all?

Mrs.

They are now calling.

Fly.

Prethe entice them in.

Mrs.

No twill become you better, he may conceive I have some end of mine own in't; your way of invitation will in­tice him, the society of an English Gentleman, is his only ambition.

Fly.

Very well; I'le invite him.

Rivers.

Whither go you Stephen?

Bella.

Sir I'le take my leave of you.

Fly.

By no means Lady, I'le return presently, aside. Jack Wildblood prethee entertain this Lady in my absence, she's modest, & thou art civil; but if you make your seeming civility a bawd to abuse me, look to your self.

Ex. Fly. & Mrs.
Wild.

Well, well, pray follow your humor; Lady you are not merry.

Bella.
[Page]

Is the Gentleman your friend gone?

Wild.

Some private occasion, he'l be here suddenly.

Bella.

I cannot stay Sir.

Pimp.

Mr. Rivers; what is Mr. Flylove gone?

Enter Pimpw.
Wild.

where's the Musick?

Pimp.

I have been as far as Redcrosse-street for them, they were playing to a company of Cittizens at the Queens-head, but they told me they would make all the necessary expedi­tion they could possible, and attend you in Hogsdon here at the Kings-head.

Rivers.

Nay, I'le say that for thee, thou art the happiest Purveyor for Wine, Wenches and Musick, that ever was as­sistant to the increase of sinners.

Pimpw.

Who should I meet withall coming from thence, through the Fortune-Playhouse yard, but old Jones the Cobl.

Wild.

Thou shouldst have brought him hither.

Pimp.

I thought you would have Wish'd so, and I have brought him.

Rivers.

A Cobler; what is he?

Wild.

What is he? why the rarest humorist of a Cobler, that ever was translated into merry company, his wit is jeering, tart in all such jeasts, nor will he spare the proudest he in plush. And speaking in a most composed strain, with countnance grave, no man can take exceptions, but may sup­pose it ignorance, not wit; You cannot chuse but know him, that is he that owed fourty shillings to an Allderman, to pay 12. pence by the week, when he did exact Coblers law, and made his worshipful creditor give him two pots at every payment.

Riv.

Yes, yes, I have heard of him.

Pimp.

Then now you shall see him, here comes the man in Person; welcome Mr. Jones.

Enter Jones.
Jones.

Thank you good Mr. Allexander, I'le make bold to salute these worthy Gentlemen, noble Mr. Wildblood, I take it.

Wild.

The very same Mr. Jones, and how did Mr. Alexander, and you meet.

Jones.

Honest Mr. Pimpwell (here) was walking I believe [Page]about his accasions, I saw 2. or 3. Gentlemen with him, and introth because I was in my workydaie Clothes, I was ashamed to speak with him, but I thank him good Gen­tleman, he call'd me to him, and told me I should see some worthy Gentlemen of my acquaintance.

Wild.

Here Mr. Jones, I'le drink to you and to your wife, do you remember since you put her i'th cage?

Jones.

I pray Sir how long is't since we [...]ere merry at the Sargeons head in Islington, where we drank Sack so long till all our mony was gone, but introth I think I brought but a groat with me; we came off from the reckoning though prety handsomly, but good Gentleman you were forc'd to leave your silver Seal behinde, but I think you redeemed it again in a little while.

Rivers.

Ha, ha, ha, there he hath met you Jack.

Enter Flylove, Sir Reverence, Lamard, and Mrs. Light.
Fly.

Gentlemen I presume to invite this worthy Gentle­man and his Lady, I pray be courteous to them.

Wild.

Noble Sir, a friend of yours can never come unwel­come where we are; my service Sir attends you.

Sir Re.

Monsieur your tres nmble umble vassale.

Rivers.

Sir according to our downright English Comple­ment you are welcome.

Sir R.

Awee Monsieur, begar me tanke you heartely dere be English Complement for you agen, vat velow's dat?

Wild.

A very honest man Sir, and Beadle of the parish.

Sir R.

A beadle, begar he be no forboon company, my Madam can no endure a beadle.

Jones.

Alack good Gentlewoman; no Sir, I am no beadle I can assure you, though the Gentleman pleases to jeast.

Sir R.

Begar you look as like a rogua as a beadle.

Jones.

Alack, I believe Monsieur you have heard the ill newes lately come forth you are so angry of the sudden.

Sir R.

Begar me have hear no ill news.

Jones.

then I'le tell you Sir, the sad report goes that most of the English Gentlemen in France must return to England agen, I am sorry for't.

Sir R.

Begar vas nothing but lies; how how vat is here, Fiddles? Madam sall we dance?

[Page] Enter Musitians, amongst them, Trimwel disguised like an old blind Fidler, and led in by a boy.
Wild.

Well done, you are honest Rascalls, every man take his stool, strike up couragiously, and be sure have a speciall care he that plays oth' base Violin sleep not, we are no colls you know, you must not flam us.

Riv.

Come Gentlemen shall we try our footing, here am I.

Fly.

And here am I.

Wild.

And if this Gentleman please, here I'le be.

Sir Rev.

Vould all mine heart Monsieur.

Bella.

I cannot dance believe me Sir.

Fly.

Nor I, we'l onely practise.

Mrs. Light.

Excuse me Sir, indeed I cannot dance.

Wild.

Excuse me Sir, indeed I cannot dance? You shall not dance excuse me then, that Country trip is old, we'l have some novelty.

Riv.

Are you perfect in the tune I gave you last to practise.

Fidlers.

Very perfect Sir.

Rivers.

Let me hear it.

They play the tune once over.
They dance the tune once over, then enter into a figure with, the beginning of the first strain, Pimpwel and the Mrs. betwixt every change two persons drink till it comes round, and Pimpw. discovers trimw. in the Dance, and at the end of several Changes he de­clares his discovery.
Pimpw.

Mrs. Trimwel do you observe that old fellow that plays oth' Base.

first Change. Wildb. and his Mi­stris drink.
Mrs. Trimw.

Well, what of that?

Pimpw.

By my life 'tis your Husband.

Mrs. Trim.

My Husband?

Pimpw.

Take no notice.

Wild.

Come t'other Change.

They dance, at the end of the next Change Flyl. and his Mrs. drink.
Fly.

Lady my service to you.

Bella.

Pray let it be your love Sir, Twill make the Health much sweeter.

Rivers.

Thou mak'st me wonder.

At the end of the next Change Mrs. Trim. and Rives drink.
Mrs. Trim.

As I live 'tis true.

Rivers.

What? he that plays the Base?

Fly.

Come to the next.

Trim.
[Page]

Here is strange humours in this

This last Change Pimpw. and the Mistris drink.

Dance, how they drink and whisper, as if they had capering minds as well as bodies; Hey! I how my wife trips it, when she comes home she was with one Aunt or other; She's no Tavern-dan­cing company, no, no; Oh my blest disguise.

Pimw.

Oh your Bulls-head, we'l take a course to order you, you blind puppy, because you wink you think no bo­dy can see you; Come the tother Change, and conclude.

Sir Rev.

Begar vas mose brave, my

They dance the last Change of all.

Lady dance al lemode like our Frensh Madam.

Jones.

Introth Mr. Flylove you dance very well, but that you straddle so much, but if you take it in time that may be altered; Oh Mr. Flylove you have a little gone awry, but mum for that.

Fly.

Well said Mr. Jones, do you remember one night when you cast Anchor ith' kennel, and call'd to the Goldfinder for a Coach, who mounted you in his Chariot, and drew you to the River Acharon at the back-side of Islington.

Jones.

Oh! Mr. Flylove you are an ingenious Gentleman, I have heard high commendations of you by a Neighbours daughter a friend of mine.

Fly.

Prethee who's that?

Jones.

'Tis a very good natur'd Lass, if she knew you were here, she would have a quart of Wine at your service.

Fly.

Do I know her?

Jones.

Do you know her? Do I know Jone my wife? Do not you know Alice Drowzy?

Fly.

Pox on you hold your tongue, this dirty whore hants me in a thousand shapes, I must throw her out of my memory. Come Gentlemen shall we have another Dance?

Rivers.

Come Gentlemen t'other Dance.

Sir Rev.

I come, me like de Dance better den Song.

They all dance to a sprightly Ayr, but in the fourth [Page]Change they all dance off from the Stage into the Tyring­house, where they remain till the tune it plaid once over; then they dance all in again, and come to their severall Figures, and continue dancing the tune once more over; then they dance in and out again as before; At the last they Dance quite away from the house, leaving the Fidlers to play to the Monsieur, Mr. Jones, and themselvs; having played an unreasonable while, they desist, and the Mon­sieur speaks.
Sir Rev.

Hold, hold good Monsieur Minikin, for begar dey have dance avay wid my Ladce; Rogue, Drawer. Ent. Draw.

Draw.

Anon, anon Sir.

Sir Rev.

Fere be de Zhentlemen and de Ladce.

Draw.

They have taken Coach Sir, and are at London by this time.

Fidlers.

How? how?

Sir Rev.

Begar me never saw sush a frisk in my life; Vas dis de skip de Angleteire?

Drawer.

I was bid to deliver this Note to him that plays on the Base?

Trim.

To me? give me't.

Draw.

Yes, they say your ill fidling made them all dance quite away, they would have staid longer else.

Trim.

The Devils have unridled me; what's here?

Trim. reads.
The Woodcock when his head is hid,
Thinks his body is unspid;
Fool when thou comest next to find us,
Bring some better trick to blind us;
Pay the reckning, or you'l finde,
There's a worser plot behinde.
Jones.

What have you there Sir, a Bill of Exchange?

Trim.

Pox on your Cobling jeasts,

Trimwell pulls off his grey beard.

you quibling Coxcombe I am undone for ever.

Sir Rev.
[Page]

Begar de Fidler be mad, he tear his hair off.

Jones.

Who's this? My old acquaintance Mr. Trimwel.

Trimw.

Hang up your old acquaintance, do not trouble me, who would have thought that through this disguise their careless eyes should thus discover me, but I'le follow them as close as Death doth sin.

Offers to go off.
Draw.

Sir you must pay the Reckoning first.

Trim.

Shall I.

Draw.

Before you part, it is your device hath made us lose the best Guests that come to our house.

Trim.

How much is it?

Draw.

One pound thirteen and nine pence.

Trim.

Here's the French Knight, one of their company that call'd it in, let him discharge it.

Sir Rev.

Disharge it, begar my Lady

The Frenchman feels in's pockets.

have left me noting to disharge, she got all my mony and my Wash.

Jones.

Gentlemen, I'le go pay my part at the bar.

Draw.

Your part, what's that?

Jones.

A three-pence, a good three-pence, a Spanish 3. d. and so farewell to you both good Gent.

Ex. Jones.
Trim.

Well, there's your mony Drawer, I must confess I drank for't.

Fidlers.

Who shall pay us Sir?

Trim.

The Devil pay't, shall I be made a But for every knave to shoot at.

Fidlers.

Sir, you are the cause that we have not only lost this mony, but our credit with the Gentlemen, if we had known you had been a Trapan, you should ne'r have been admitted into our company; you had other pretences.

Trim.

Well, since 'twas my plot, I am like to pay for't, there's a French crown among you, pray get you from me. Sir, you are a stranger, and therefore I

Exeunt Fidlers.

have nothing more to say to you, but to desire your absence.

Sir Rev.

Mee bee glad mee come off so, farewel Monsieur Bo-peep.

Exit Sir Rev.
Trimwel solus.
Trim.
The just cause of my fears I now perceive,
[Page]As evident as day-light; in this Dance
There is compos'd all that her wanton heart
Can give, or he can covet, I must now
Turn all my love to loathing; Sweet Revenge
I am thy faithful Votary, I will still
Pursue their foot-steps, and with wary eyes,
Watch their Adulterous Conspiracies:
Now I have thought upon't, if they defend
Their persons from this plot I now intend,
I will disband my reason, and resign
My Intellectuals, or what else is mine:
Look to it Gallants, the next time you view me,
I'le make you curse the time that e're you knew me.

Actus tertius,

Scaena prima.

Enter Mercurio and Splendora.
Mercu.
Time and our fitter opportunity,
The pleasant entertainment of our love
Hath almost wasted; 'tis an hour neer night,
And we can tread no farther then to'th place
Thy Father hath expell'd me, we must part,
But urg'd to't with much more unwillingness,
Then heat from life, when souls and bodies seperate.
Splend.
Thou shalt not leave me yet, I'le plant my love
Above my fear, it is a nobler passion,
Nor shall my fathers frown have more command
On my affection, then thy brow, made smooth
By thy own love, credit me gentle youth,
Thou hast next rule in this weak mansion
To him that built it.
Ent. Nice. Sir Rev. Trimwel and two Serjeants.
Nice.

That's he.

1. Ser.

We know him Sir.

Nice.

Perform your task then.

2. Ser.

I'le warrant you.

Sir Rev.

Begar me have wash him hither, now me sall be revenge.

Nice.

Stay not for bayl, I'le double your reward.

1. Ser.
[Page]

You are a kind Gentleman: Sir we arrest you by the name of Mercurio.

Merc.

Arrest me Sir, who hath employ'd you for this Action? At whose suit is't?

2. Ser.

At the Suit of Mr. Nice, a very honest Gentleman I can assure you.

Merc.

You guess that by his bounty for your baseness: What is the sum?

1. Ser.

Twenty pounds upon bond, if you have speciall Bayl, produce it presently, we cannot stay.

Merc.

Why is your time so precious that is spent to ruine man-kind, be not pray so hasty, where is the Gentleman?

2. Ser.

He is not far Sir.

Nice.

What is your wil with me.

Merc.

Longer time for payment of your debt.

Nice.

I may forbear no longer, Sir you know the mony hath been due these 14. weeks, it is in vain to think you can urge me to an agreement, but my present sum.

Splend.

But not, I intreat that mercy Sir.

Nice.

Fond Girl ask mercy for your disodedience, I have appear'd too temperate with you, and shown too much in­dulgence; 'tis your cause that makes him suffer.

Splend.
And 'tis his abuse
Will make me perish; Oh remember Sir
You had a wife, my Mother, whose dear dust
With low and humble reverence I kiss:
Had you been seiz'd between two Tygers thus,
Would't not have mov'd her, made her plyant knees
Grow toth' dull earth, till the deaf Creditor,
(By importunacy more then compunction)
Had seal'd a truce 'twixt him and's undone Debtor.
Nice.
Your superstitious knees in vain are bent
For this bad cause, Laws Moral and Divine,
Have still provided that each man shall claim
What is his right, I but exact mine own.
Splend.
What can you call your own, that you may spare,
Whilst still the cryes of widdows, injur'd Orphans
Beat at the ears of pitty; had this man
(Trapt in the snares of Canibals) his own
[Page]The fair inheritance his birthright claims,
(Heaven pardon them that have it) I believe
You need not rack his body for your owne.
Nice.

Your zeal makes you forget your self.

Splend.
My sorrow is too bold indeed, to see
Such pregnant hopes thus blasted in the bloom
Of teeming growth, nipt in the springing bud
Of spreading youth; to see mans span contracted,
Sent to the grave e're yet he can conceive
The end of his Creation, 'cause his Chests
Want coyn, not to supply, but cram anothers:
Joves great impression suffers this decay,
For want of Caesar [...] Image stampt in Clay.
Nice.

I'le hear no more.

Splend.
A little pray Sir,
He that's so indigent to want the means
Of rendring your right, whilst he enjoys
His fair and open freedom; Can you believe,
That being close pent up with Iron barrs,
Stone walls and Jaylors hearts,
Where every cowardly Creditor treads down,
The o'rethrown Debtor with a doubled sum,
That stands bayl-proof; is that a time to satisfie,
Unless he had the Elixor to convert
The Iron grates to Gold, or (which is best)
To nothing.
Nice.

Officers what stay you for?

1. Ser.

Come will you go Sir.

Splend.
How diligent in cruelty you are:
Have you the heart to think this good old man
(That knows the scales unto Eternity
Are pitty, mercy, love (the best Religion)
Fear of oppression) will commit his youth
To your ungentle usage?
2. Ser.

Pray be not mov'd with us, your father may re­lease him.

Splend.
Look Sir, the Officers grow merciful,
And seem to bear no part in his undoing;
Shall men that study nought but cruelty,
Out-doe you in an act of gentleness?
Nice.
[Page]

Officers, I'le leave him to your charge, take Bayle at your peril.

Exit Nice.
Splend.

Sir Reverence, will you be bayl for him, you are good for nothing else.

Sir Rev.

Begar me be no bayl.

Exit Sir Rev.
Splend.

There's a day for thee when no bayl shalbe taken; Shall I speak one word with your Prisoner?

1. Ser.

Two if you please.

Trim.

Hark you Mr. Tripes, I shal find you at the Compter gate.

2. Ser.

Without fail.

Trim.

I have another mischievous imployment for you.

1. Ser.

We shall endeavour to perform it Sir.

Trim.

Oh Sir, I know you to be deserving men; there's money, enter an Action against Stephen Flylove at the suit of Alice Drowzy in an Action of assault and battery committed upon the belly of the said Alice last May, the Planets being Venus and Mars Rampant, and the Sign Virgo.

2. Ser.

I apprehend you Sir.

Trim.

Apprehend me Sir, for what? you are deceived, you must apprehend Mr. Flylove.

2. Ser.

I understand you Sir.

Trim.

Farewel my understanding Serjeant,

Exit.
Merc.

Come we must part.

Splend.

I'l come and visit thee.

Merc.

Thy sight in prison is my liberty.

Ex. several ways.

Act. 3. Scaen. 2.

Enter Stephen Flylove and Bellaflora.
Fly.

Can you conceit why I have singled you thus from the company.

Bella.

No, pray instruct me Sir.

Fly.

The instructions are too easie to be good, since you appear so innocently modest; I'le be your amorous School­master for once.

Bella.

You'l teach me no ill Doctrine.

Fly.

No, no, prethee observe me, be but capable, and I'le warrant thee an apt Scholler.

Bella.

Well-Sir, so far as I perceive it's good, I'le learn.

Fly.

I'le shew you the Lovers Alphabet, be observant then, and be not squeamish, but do as I direct you; When a Gentle­man and's Lady do meet, A. the first letter is A salutation.

Bella.

The word begins with S.

They salute.
Fly.
[Page]

No matter for the word, give me the sence, B. the next letter, lend me your fair hand.

Bella.

Very good Sir.

Fly.

'Tis in a very good hand indeed; nay I'le shew you more tricks by and by, it is so very fair that I must kiss it, there's a letter gone that stands for C.I confess C. may stand for another business, and sitter for the letter, but a kiss shall serve at this time.

Bella.

On I pray Sir.

Fly.

Nay, I shall come on fast enough, I warrant you. D. shall joyn both our hands, now do we look as if we were wrestling, which of us both should give the first kiss.

Bella.

You make your own construction Sir.

Fly.

I, I, no matter, it's nere the worse for that.

Bella.

Proceed Sir.

Fly.

Stay, stay, let's pause a little, you'l forget it agen else, E. is embrace me, there I have hit you to a letter.

Bella.

You come neer me now Sir.

Fly.

I shall come neerer yet, for F. I'le stroak your cheek.

Bella.

F. stands for flattery.

Fly.

Not at this time fair one, if you will tye me punctu­ally to a better F. stands for Faith or Friendship.

Bella.

That is the truest use on't.

Fly.

Well, it shall go so then. G. is a Gift.

Gives her a Ribbon.
Bella.

I'le wear it.

Fly.

Let me see you.

Bella.

First make an end.

Fly.

H. stands for Hug me t' you.

Bella.

I have heard of a Wine call'd by that name Sir.

Fly.

Were it Nectar it could not be sweeter then this.

Bella.

It seems your favour and my embrace do want no acceptation.

Fly.

I. stands for you, and K. standing for kiss, is I kiss you. By the breath of Venus y'have a pleasant lip.

Bella.

I'm glad it pleaseth you; to the next letter.

Fly.

L. is another kiss, it stands for Love.

Bella.

L. may be lust, but it should be Love.

Fly.

I, I, it may stand for both by fits. M. stands for Mary.

Bella.

So it may for Marry.

Fly.
[Page]

Remember R. stands for repent, but I am far enough off from that. N, is the next letter, N. stands for ne're be good, you shall learn O. Q. P. V. in private, that is the full prick or conclusion of the Lovers Alphabet.

Bella.
Take heed, be not too hasty.
Some that would seem more nice then vertuous.
Who use a blush, or modest bashfulness,
To vail their knowledge of ill propositions,
(Such as I'm sure pou make, though y'have a trick
To smooth it o're with your methodick wantonness)
Would be asham'd to tell you your ill meaning,
But I will not.
L. in your Alphabet doth stand for lust,
And be not fool'd with such a vanity,
To think because you are a handsome man,
Or I so easie won to your society,
That I will do an act may hold proportion
With any baseness; if you can love truly,
Without a glance to any vild respect,
Reveal it, I was never so ill bred
To give discourteous answers.
Fly.
Love, and love truly, are not you married?
Bella.
I am not now Sir.
Fly.
A widdow and so cautious, I'le try another ways;
Have I taken up an Angle instead of a Bona Roba?
Yes I can love thee, and can love thee truly, and heartily,
He swear so if thou'lt have me.
Bell.

Let me but hear you Sir, I'le swear as much.

Fly.

Wilt thou, faith stay a little.

Bell.

What do you pause on't Sir?

Fly.

No, no, I'm ready enough to swear, I am loath to cast away too big an oath, and I'm afraid a smal one wil not suffice her.

Bell.

Come I'le propose the Oath.

Fly.

With all my heart.

Bell.

By tho [...]e diviner powers that govern Contracts, Swear to be true to me.

Fly.

By all those sacred powers I kiss the book, & ever wil observe it, come shal we walk a side now: Kisses her. Whose here?

Bell.
[Page]

I am glad you are prevented; How vainly men in their rash heat will swear to what they ne'r intend.

Enter Riv. Wild. and Mrs. Trimwel.
Wild.

How now Stephen, what do you flye from your Colours?

Fly.

No Sir, I flye to my Colours, red and white, I'm a right English-man▪

Riv.

Where's Pimpwel gone?

Fly.

I sent him for more Money.

Wild.

But that Heaven ordained al things for a good end, a man might swear that Pimpwel was created for a Pimp: how cunningly he found her husband out, & how suddenly the rogue contriv'd that quick escape; I will have him put in the Almanack next to the Gunpowder-Treason.

Rivers.

Or Gowries Conspiracy; In what a stammering case now is my French-man; and now I think upon him, I have seen a face as right like that in Parris.

Wild.

Faith so have I.

Mrs. Trim.

Were you e'r in France Mr. Rivers?

River.

Yes Sweetheart.

Mrs. Trim.

I have had a brother there these 14. years, and have not heard-from him.

Riv.

What part of France?

Mrs. Trim.

Paris.

Wild.

What was his name?

Enter Pimp
Mrs. Trim.

Brooks.

Wild.

I never heard of him.

Fly.

Hast thou brought the mony.

Pimp.

Ther's. 5. l.

Fly.

Go and bespeak supper at the John of Jerusalem.

Pim.

I fear it's too late.

Fly.

What's a clock?

Pim.

Past 9.

Fly.

No matter; Lady you shall not leave me.

Bell.

Indeed I cannot stay, to morrow where you please I'le keep an hour with you.

Fly.

we'l drink a pint & talk on't

Pimpw.

I'le tell you news, The French Knight's arrested at the suit of Mr. Bonaventure an English Merchant for 6000. pound, is gone to prison, no bayl will be taken.

Fly.

I'm sorry for't; go, prethee make haste.

Pimpw.

I am gone.

Exit Pimpw. Enter Porter.
Port.

Gentlemen, my business is to one Mr. Elylove, Can you direct me to him?

Fly.

What is your business Porter?

Port.

I pray read that Letter Sir, I received it from a young Gentleman.

Fly.
[Page]

Gentleman! I hope it is no news from Drowzy. To my friend Stephen Flylove; I'le try what your inside sayes; Ha, come with all speed, Gentlemen I have sad news for you, Mercurio is arrested.

Reads the Superscription.
Wild.

Arrested!

Riv.

What devil did the deed?

Fly.

Nice the rich Merchant, 'tis but 20. l.

Riv.

But 20. l. alas poor Gentleman, he can as wel discharge 1000.

Fly.

He hath writ to speak with me, he is not yet in prison.

Wild.

Where is he?

Fly.

At the Harrow-Tavern in Little Woodstreet.

Wild.

Come we'l all go, perhaps they'l take our Bayl.

Riv.

No hang them, these Citizens will take none but Free men; We'l make a tryal though.

Wild.

I would Pimywel were here agen, I am sorry you appointed a Supper.

Fly.

No matter, we shall know some end on't suddenly.

Riv.

Let us defer no time, at the Harrow-Tavern say you.

Bella.

Sir I must take my leave of you at next turning.

Fly.

Well, meet me at the Jerusalem-Tavern, but be sure you fail not.

Bella.

Your injunction shall be observed?

Fly.

I'le leave a Glove at bar.

Exeunt.

Act. 3. Scaen. 3.

Enter Mr. Hemlock, Mrs. Hemlock, Trimwel, Mace & Trip [...]s.
Trim.

Mrs. Hemlock if you and your husband do not assist me in this plot of dexterious mischief (sinister I should call it) I shal be disgraced beyond remedy; I have now met with an opportunity so pleasing, so fit, so apt to entertain my pur­pose, an hour where only Saturn is predominant, shall so jerk my light-heel'd Gallants, and the politick little Gypsie my wife, Flylove is the pin that must set all the other wheels a going, which pin this honest blade my old acquaintance Tripes shall turn, Mr. Mace I know your part is not the least in this revengeful conspiracy, be sure you use him roughly that it may cause a quarrel, and young Rivers will take fire at the least spark.

Tripes.

If scurvy usage will make them quarrel they shal not want it, I hope Tripes is not to learn to use a man scur­vily, [Page]I'm sure I have practiz'd these 20. years, and there's ne­ver a one that ever I arrested yet can give me a good word; The Players brought me oth' Stage once I thank them in a Play call'd the Roaring Girle, or The Catchpole, he was a pret­ty fellow that acted me, but he came short of the rogueries I have done.

Mrs. Hem.

You have sent a Porter.

Trim.

I saw him deliver the Letter.

Mrs. Hem.

'Tis very well, 'cause this is a large room, you shall retire into a less, I'le shew them up stayrs, and pretend that Mercurio and the Serjeants are gone into the City to see some friend of his for bayl, and will be here presently, which to countenance you shall leave your pint pot half full of wine, your empty foul pipes and the candle, and when I shall give the watch-word you may enter.

Trimwel.

And now you talk of the watch-word, is the Watch set at Cripplegate?

Mrs. Hem.

And hath been this half hour.

Trim.

If there be but the least disturbance, let your boy be ready to call the Watch up; can he frame a lye hansomly before the Justice next morning, I know the Watch will do their parts, only they have one fault, which is to charge every offender with one way of assault, that must be avoided.

Mrs. Hem.

I warrant you for the boy Ned.

Boy.

Anon, anon Sir, Did you call Mr.

Mrs. Hem.

Yes Sir.

Trim.

Is thy name Villanous?

Boy.

No Sir, 'tis a nick-name my Mr. hath given me.

Trim.

But thou must now deserve it, can you if need be, abuse. I mean accuse a Gentleman before a Justice of peace, to do a courtefie for a friend of your Masters?

Boy.

Of what degree must the fault be?

Trim.

Of what degree? a learned boy, oh my dainty pick­pocket, he hath faults at's fingers ends, the devil hath given us such equal gifts; let me hear your degrees my fine villain.

Trim.

Time runs away, let me hear som of them presently.

Boy.

Why sir, I can accuse him for picking of your kocket calling you son of a whore Rogue, Knave, Cheat, striking of you with a sword, with a staff, with a pot, a Candlestick, or stab'd you with a Tobacco-pipe, or — are you married?

Trim.

Yes Sir.

Boy.
[Page]

Then if you will Sir, I'le swear I saw him lye with your wife.

Trim.

No, no, hang you, I'le have thee swear to nothing that appears like truth, you shall find cause enough to swear I'le warrant you, and so we shall have all.

Tripes.

I should know this boy, a pretty ingenious Lad; Dost thou not know me, Jack?

Boy.

My name's Richard Philpot, I was born in Turnbal-street

Tripes.

'Tis true, 'tis true, dost not know me Dick Filpot?

Boy.

No truly Sir.

Tripes.

How doth thy father, is thy mother living still?

Boy.

No Sir, she's dead; did you know her Sir?

Tripes.

Did I know her, I a dozen years before I knew thee, why thou art now, let me see, 1641. thou art now some 14. years of age Dick.

Boy.

I am almost 15. Sir.

Tripes.

I think thou wantst half a year on't.

Boy.

No Sir, I want but a quarter.

Tripes.

I, thereabouts, didst never hear thy father speak of me Dick.

Boy.

No indeed Sir.

Tripes.

I am thy Godfather.

Boy.

Are you Sir?

Tripes.

Am I quotha, who would have thought to have seen this boy here; do thy duty, I shal find somthing for thee.

Boy.

Pray Godfather give me your blessing.

Tripes.

Good boy, thou art no Brownist, I see thou canst kneel to thy Godfather for a gift, so can som of them too for thy hopes, but y faith boy I cannot part with mony at this time, thou shalt have my blessing.

Omnes.

Ha, ha, ha.

Boy.

A pox of your blessing, I thought how wel you were my Godfather; had it not been for the hopes of your mony I'le have seen you hang'd e'r I'le have beleeved you, I know where my Godfathers are, though I'de have satisfied your humor for your mony.

Within. Boy, Drawer, Drawer.
Trim.

Boy look to your charge, they are come.

Boy.

By and by, anon, anon Sir.

Exit boy.
Mrs. Hem.

Go all of you into that room.

Mr. Hem.

The watch-words shall be, I wonder he stayes so long.

Mr. Trim.

I would not have you seen.

Exeunt Serj. and Trimwel.
Trim.

No, I'le warrant you.

Mrs. Hem.
[Page]

You are very welcom Gent.

Ent. Wild. Fly. Riv. & Mrs. Trim.
Wild.

Are you the Master of the house?

Mr. Hem.

Yes Sir, for want of a better.

Wild.

It may be so; what shall I call your name?

Mr. Hem.

My name is Hemlock Sir.

Fly.

Thou art half hang'd, thou hast an ill name Hemlock and a Vintner, bless me from thy wine; did there not a couple of Serjeants bring in a Gentleman even now?

Mr. H.

Yes Sir, are you the Gentleman he sent for?

Fly.

Where is he?

Mr. H.

He and the Serjeants are gone into Cheapside to a friend of his that he hopes will bayl him, they'l be here pre­sently, this is his room.

Fly.

Why would not that friend come hither?

Mrs. H.

He was in bed Sir.

Fly.

A poor excuse, that man will scarce be bayl, that will not have his bed to save his friend.

Mr.

I hope Sir you will do him some good, he's a pretty Gentleman, 'tis pitty he should suffer.

Fly.

It is indeed, hath he paid the reckning.

Mr.

No Sir.

Fly.

How long hath he been gone?

Mr.

Half an hour Sir, I wonder he stays so long.

Enter Serjeants.
Wild.

How now, who are these?

Tripes.

Is your name Mr. Flylove?

Fly.

Yes Sir.

Tripes.

I arrest you at the suit of Alice Drowzy.

Riv. draws, offers to run at the Serj. and the Mr. oth' house comming between, he is hurt ith' arm, then coms in the mistris.
Riv.

Arrest my friend?

Wild.

Then let me suffer too.

Mr. H.

Murder, murder, murder, go run and call the Watch, my hus­band's kill'd.

Constable.

Beat down their weapons, I charge you in the Kings name to keep his peace.

Riv.

The Kings peace we will keep.

Const.

Or we shall force you.

Riv.

Did nothing urge me to't but your force, I should not fear to break it.

Const.

Sir you have kill'd the Master of the house.

Riv.

I'm very sorry for't Sir.

Const.

That is no satisfaction.

Riv.
[Page]

He is a man I meant no hurt to; Sir do you send for Chyrurgeon to night, I'le send you one to morrow, I guess the danger of the wound; Come Sir, where will you con­duct us?

Const.

To the next prison.

Wild.

Oh that's the Compter.

Riv.

Come then we'l altogether and make a merry night, no question but we shall come off to morrow; I pray Mr. Constable will you come for us betimes.

Const.

You shall have all the favour I can do you, I am sorry for this chance.

Fly.

Faith so am I.

Exeunt.
Ent. Trimw.
Trim.
And I am sorry too but cannot cry,
Now Is my plot made perfect, all the wheels
Are in a general motion, I must follow, I shall
Never think they are in prison, till I see them
Within the Compter-gates.
My singing Gallants your mad misdemeanor,
Shall bring you now to sing the Compter tenor.
Exit.

Actus quartus,

Scaena prima.

Enter as in the Compter Wildblood, Rivers, Flylove, Mrs. Trimwel and Keeper.
Wild.
Blood of the Rivers, thou beginst to droop,
Thy soul seems not so active as it was:
Where be those capering pieces of pure flash,
That made the genius of the place grow Comick?
By the wanton memory of Chaucer I could turn Poet,
And write in as Heathen English; and as bawdy;
I'le not to bed to night.
Rivers.

Nor I by Jove.

Fly.

By Jupiter nor I, shall we be jovial; why should we not; conceive this place a Tavern, one place may serve for two uses; some conceive it the habitation of the sorrowful, and our free spirits shall convert it to a Paradise of delight; Pray Sir what hour of the night is't.

Keeper.

Past twelve Sir.

Fly.
[Page]

It is an age to morning:

Frank Rivers,

prethee cheer up the woman, she droope.

Riv.

Dost thou want rest?

Mrs. Trim.

Yes Sir, far more then sleep.

Riv.
Thy mind's disquiet then, prethee be cheerful,
Sorrows are momentary as well as joyes;
Were I ith' bottome of the Ocean,
I'd bear my head up, till my own weight sunk me.
Sir, can we have some Wine.
Keep.

I'le ring the Bell for you, they are up at the Fea­thers-Tavern; they lye at a safe Guard, they' I have their money before-hand.

Fly.

With all my heart, we shall not be mis-reckoned then, here's money for a pottle of Canary, the night is somewhat cold, and Sack is sprightly.

Keep.

Hugh, Hugh.

Enter Drawer at the window.
Hugh.

What a Hugh and cry you make, I have stayed up these two nights, you are all mad I think, will you not go to bed to night.

Wild.

Prethee honest Hugh (if thy name be so) fill us one pottle of Canary, let's have clean pipes and Tobacco.

Hugh.

Where's your money?

Riv.

At hand, at hand, my midnight Drawer.

Hugh.

Who's that, Mr. Rivers?

Riv.

I, dost know me?

Hugh.

Do I Sir, I fill'd you many a gallon of Wine at the Bear upon Fleet-bridge.

Riv.

Oh, th'art an honest blade, I know thee, prethee fill me good Wine.

Hugh.

The best in the Sellar.

Exit.
Wil.

Hark you sir, is there not a French knight in the hous?

Keep.

His name is Sir Reverence Lamard, he lies two stories higher to the street.

Riv.

A lamentable story! can you not invite him down?

Keep.

I'le try Sir.

Riv.

Th'art an honest Keeper.

Fly.

These Keepers have been rumor'd to be churlish; I like this fellows humour very well.

Wild.

Oh what a crew of Wine-Leaches shal we have stick upon us to morrow morning for our Garnish, we are of the Master-side, your half-crowns a piece Gentlemen, I know the order, I have commenc'd in this Colledge before now.

Hugh.
[Page]

A pottle of Canary in the Compter, s [...]re.

Enter Drawer with Wine.
Fly.

In the Compter you rogue; Sir can't you shew us a better room.

Hugh.

It is too late Sir, pray be civill, and keep your own room:

Exit Drawer.
Fly.

Is this the end of our travail? Here s a Health to our good deliverance.

Wild.

By the blood of Bacchus I'le pledge thee.

Fly.

Come I'le begin a mad Health, and let every man have his fancie.

Here's a curst to all those
That are Pris'ners foes,
And the Coward that goes
To undoe men for blows,
Who doth basely expose
Their bodies to throwes,
In a Prison where growes
Infection to th' nose,
And from top to the toes
Are tormented with woes,
Till, be it spoke under the Rose,
They'r meat for the Crowes;
Confusion to those
In Meeter and Prose.
Wild.

Pray drink off your cup, and we'l all keep the close, here comes my white Knight in his Lawn sleeves, now if a Quaker saw him he would take his shirt for a Surpless, and condemn it for a Babylonish Garment, or in good sooth and verily a wicked and superstitious remnant of that foul slaps the whore of Babylon.

Sir Rev.

Begar dat whore of Babylon be one of me Aunts.

Riv.

Monsieur you see we are come to bear you company, you shall not engross the prison to your self.

Sir Rev.

Me tank you for noting, you can no give me de sheat now as you have frō (vat do you cal de fader of de pig)

Fly.

The father of the Pig; a Hog.

Sir R.

Hog, hog, hog, as you gave me de sheat at Hogdown.

Riv.

Wel forget it, there was no hurt meant, on my cre­dit, there was another cause you must not know.

Sir R.
[Page]

Begar but me do know already, you carry away de Surzhons vise, begar he be horn-mad.

Wild.

How came you to know this? would he reveal it?

Sir R.

Yes begar and more to, 'twas he dat make Drowzy de Kishin-wensh to arrest Monsieur Flylove.

Riv.

The devil at last is even with us.

A showt in the Hole.
Within.

Room for my Lord Judge.

Fly.

How now what's the matter?

Keep.

This noise is ith' Kings Ward; 'tis term'd the Hole.

Fly.

But are they allow'd to be so lowd there.

Keep.
We cannot check a Custome they have us'd,
Which is when a new Prisoner first comes in,
They have a Scaene of mirth, where one is Judge,
And sits a tryal upon life and death.
Fly.

May we not see them Sir.

Keep.

I have no priviledg to open Wards at this late hour oth' night, left some combustion happen amongst the prisoners, which my strength will be too weak to pacifie.

Riv.

My life for yours no danger Sir.

Keep.

Ye appear honest Gentlemen, and I'le trust ye.

Riv.

Thank you Sir; come Monsieur wil you walk down.

Sir R.

Zhentlem me vill vait on you to morrow, but me mus com to bed; but me have anoder plot in my head begar.

Fly.

Wel Monsieur good night▪ take rest, and sleep secure.

Sir R.

Awee Monsieur tres humble serviteur.

Act. 4. Scaen. 2.

Enter as in the Hole Wildfire, Lord Lows-proof, Steward Rentfree Constable-Lazy, and Chamberlain-Jaylbird.
Rent.

What is your name my friend?

Lows.

You must tell the Steward your name, you will be the sooner entred a member of the Sheriffs-Basket, there is (my friend) a strange miracle in our living, we never want meat yet keep continual fast; and yet all that fast, you may see by our Clothes we are loose enough; we live in imita­tion of the Owls, we sleep ith' day time, and revel all the night: Some beds we have for Gentlemen of quality, as my self being the Lord, Steward Rentfree, Constable Lazy, and Chamberlain Jaylbird.

Wildf.
[Page]

Gentlemen, I was a Page to a Knight that was a prisoner in this house Sir Rev. Lamard, my name is Wildfire.

Lows.

Prethee stand farther off, thou wilt melt me else.

Jayl.

My Lord begins to hiss.

Lows.

Gentlemen of the Kings Ward let us consult upon the business, 'tis for the good of the Hole, and of the whole House; let us for once be wiser and honester then e'r we have been, there may come much mischief by this Wildfire, if he stay long he will consume us, and every creeping thing a­bout us, our beds being all straw is very combustible; the very blowing on's nose blows a bed up.

Rent.

There's a Bug upon your Honours doublet.

Lows.

Is there but one, give it Wildfire, he is fit for no­thing but to receive my Moabites in reversion, they may live upon him like so many Salamanders; I will petition to morrow for the discharge of Wildfire, he shall not stay with us, we must have Wildfire put out, 'tis pity such a spark should be in the Compter.

Enter Keeper, Flylove, Rivers, Wildblood, Mrs. Trimw.

Stand aside, here comes the Gentlemen Rats, it is most fit I give them the first salutation; Gentlemen you are most un­happily incountred.

Fly.

I do most unfortunately thank you Sir, we come to see your Revels, are they ended? are you my Lord?

Lazy.

Yes Sir, he's my Lord.

Fly.

Well Gentlemen we make bold to visit you, and (to be the better welcome) we have brought with us each man a bottle of Canary; who's that knocks?

Keep.

'Tis somebody at the Compter-gate, some more Rats I believe.

knocking at the Compter-gate.
Wild.

Bring them hither of what degree soever.

Exit Keeper and Lowzy.
Lazy.

I, I, Hole 'um, Hole 'um; Rat, tat, tat, this is the City-Mous-trap; here do we lye at a sure ward, revel all night, and breath defiance to the Watch and the Constable; we have suffered under the terrour of Authority, and now we have got the Law in our own hands.

Lowzy.

A Rat, a Rat, a Rat.

Enter Lowzy.
Riv.
[Page]

What are they, Citizens or Gentlemen?

Low.

No, no, they are neither Citizens nor Gentlemen, and yet they are a company for Lords, they are musicall Rats, singing Rats, men that are come to keep time in the Compter; they are crowding in, therefore you that mean to express your activity, prepare and be in readiness, a man in prison may easily do his sink-a-pace.

Enter Keeper and the Musicians.
Fly.

These are the Blades that were with us at Hogsdon; this was some precise Constable, some brother oth' Family, that sent the Musicians to prison, or else some joviall Hu­mourist that had a mind the prisoners should be merry to night; well my Masters, since you are here, strike up cou­ragiously, here be Gentlemen have a mind to discover their footing, you shall not lose your labour, I'le pay your Fees in the morning.

Fidlers.

We thank you noble Mr. Flylove.

Low.

Gentlemen, throw of your bottomless pantoffles, and let's to't, here's Sack to cherrish us when we have fini­shed.

They Dance an Antick.
Wildb.

Gentlemen, we thank you, when we'r at liberty, we'l send you something worth your estimation, in the mean time drink that.

Gives them money.
Fly.

I come, let's go, I do not like the fume of this close room; how fare you Mrs. Trimwel?

Mrs. Trim.

Well Sir, but that the scent is somewhat noy­some, the room above, from whence we came, is sweeter.

Riv.

Come, we'l go up agen then.

Fly.

I, I, let's go, god-night good friends.

Omnes.

We thank you Gentlemen, we'l drink your healths to morrow morning.

Riv.

In the morning Musick we'l keep our words with you, but I shall talk with you for the trick you put upon me at Hogsdon.

Fidlers.

It was no fault of ours indeed Mr. Rivers, we'l mak't appear to morrow.

Exeunt Rivers, Mrs. Trim. Wildblood and Flylove.
Riv.

Well, well, good night.

Omnes.

Good night to you all Gentlemen.

Lows.
[Page]

Come my Masters we that were Dancers will make an equal division of the Gentlemans bounty, here is ten shillings, and we are six on's.

Ren.

12. d. a piece, & the rest in drink among the prisners

Lows.

I like the motion well my equal Steward, here is some Sack left, that we'l drink with the Musitians, and ex­cuse their Garnish in the morning.

Omnes.

Agreed, agreed.

Lows.

Let us consult farther in our with-drawing room: How now Chamberlain cannot you leave your old trade? must you be filching? wouldst thou undo a poor Common­wealth at one pull thou unconscionable thief, but I am too subtil for you sirrah, you can't deceive me; The devil take me if my Angel leave me.

Rent.

Nobly spoke my Lord; room for my Lord there.

Enter above with a long rope Sir Rev. Lamard.
Sir Rev.

'Tis very light, begar me sall be discover; now if my string do slip, down goes Sir Reverence upon some Wash-mans head, and begar dat vill bewray all; I can see no­ting but de Fiddles in de Prison; if I sall break my neck in sundra for my liberty, begar my adversary make dice of my bones, but I sall couzen him, for my bone crumble to ashes: So, so, vas very fast, and so fast, as me can, me vill down; Begar me tink it be somewhat strange dat me mus come to be save by de Rope, but if I be taken, for ought I know I sall be hang in de Rope. I care not me sall

He slides down and resteth on the Fea­thers Tavern.

ventre for all dat, as good be hang as live in prison: Begar here comes som­body vith light, me sall be taken, dere

Ent. Pimpw. drunk with a Torch in his hand.

be no vay to scape, and me canot clime up agen: Oh Diabolo vat sall become of me, de vindow be shut, me can no creep into de Tavern, and I sall not be taken for Zhorge a hors-back, as me saw once in de Play; begar dis man be drunk, I see by his stagger.

Pimpw.

A sawcy Constable to question my lodging, can­not a man go home to his house in peace? Is it not suffici­ent that I can carry my self to the Compter, but I must be beholding to an enigmatical Constable, and his mischievous [Page]Watch; a man can no sooner come neer them, but who goes there? come before the Constable; Come afore a Cuckold, Oh such a rogue would be hang'd; Let me see, where am I? this is Woodstreet, whereabouts is the Feathers-Tavern.

Sir Rev.

A pox for you, you be too neer de Feder-Tavern already, and begar now I see him, dis fellow be prisoner in de Compter, but I have an invention he sall no spy me, be­gar me vill creep into dis Bush, and ven he be gone me sall go down courageo.

Pimpw.

This is the Compter where many a man lies with a heavy heart, I have been a prisoner this two or three years, yet I walk abroad at my leasure, and am as drunk as a devil for my pleasure.

Sir Rev.

Begar me have extream need to make vater, I sall pish my breesh, Oh Diabolo I sall be found, begar me can stay no longra, me sall burse.

Pimpw.

I will knock up this rogue Hugh at the Feathers; Hugh, Hugh, you rogue rise, my name's Pimpwel, you sleepy rogue rise and let me in, must I wait upon you with a pox to you. Nouns what's that?

Sir Rev. pisseth upon him.
Sir Rev.

Begar now I be undon in a pissing vhile.

Pimpw.

You son of a Batchelor, do you throw your Pis­pots upon my head, if I could finde stones I'de break your windows, but since I cannot, I will even make bold to set fire of your Bush, then throw your water and spare not.

Sir Rev.

Oh Mordieu, me sall be burn in de Bush, or be hang in de Rope, I vould I were in me shamber agen.

Pimpw.

What's here, a Rope? some pri­soner

Pimpw. spieth the rope.

has made an escape out of the Masters-side; there's money for somebody to pay, I'le in and call the Turn-key, a prisoner escap't, a prisoner, a prisoner.

Within.

From whence?

Pimpw.

A private chamber in the Masters-side.

Within.

A prisoner, a prisoner.

Pimpw.

Look, look, here's the Rope.

Ent. 2. or 3. Keepers.
Keep.

Run up to the Masters-side, see if the French Knight be in's Chamber, his Action is 6000. l. we are all undone if he escape away.

Exit 2. Keepers.
Pimpw.
[Page]

I, I, we are all undone, if he be gone here's Rope enough for us all.

3. Keep.

Pox on you for a drunken rogue, wher hast bin?

Pimpw.

Drinking wine in bowls boys, I am almost drunk, but what shal we do for the prisoner, shall I run after him?

3. Keep.

Which way is he gone?

Pim.

The Lord knows.

2. Keep.

Hallowgh?

1. Keep.

What say you?

2. Keep.

The French Knight is escaped, you must make swift pursuit, he cannot be gone far.

1. Keep.

Pluck up the Rope; look well toth' Gate, Pimp­wel run you to Cripplegate, you to some other Watches, and all the way you run, cry out a prisoner.

Exit.
3. Keep.

A prisoner, a prisoner.

Ex. keep. several ways.
Sir Reverence comes out of the Bush.
Sir Rev.

Oh the great pox run with you all, vat a fear have dey put me in, begar me vill not stay, 'tis very light, I see no passenger, dis vas de bravest time: So, now me are down, futra for Keeper; begar me can no shuse but laugh, how dey run-away from me to find me; Oh me brave bush! Fish vay sall me take to be safe, me mus come no neer Crip­plegate, nor Sheapside, I sall take some udder vay, the devil is in me if I come agen; Farewell good Compter, I am not loath to part from you: I remember two line of an English­man dat vent from de Prison, dey var des:

Dis House mus be let at a miserable rate,
For I ha' left my Shambra, any man may ha't.

Farewel Comptera.

Exit.
Enter Splendora and a Keeper.
Mercurio?
Splend.

Can you direct me to the hapless lodging of yong

Keep.

He lies ith' Masters-side, he is a Gentleman whose misery works much compassion in each Officer, I would my power could save him.

Splend.
Thank you Sir?
Such worthy wishes in such men as you,
Who bear a function of that cruel nature,
Being so rare, appears most excellent;
Pray tell me Sir, how doth he take his sufferings?
Keep.
[Page]
I think he is in love; he's often heard
To sigh a Ladies name, and sing sad Sonnets
In dissolving passion,
Such as might melt the Tyger-cruelty
Of men turn'd Tyrants; thus much I observe,
The prison doth not fright him from his rest,
Like his divorce from her whose name he sighs so;
I'le call him if you please, yet 'tis somewhat early.
Splend.
Sir, I give thanks
Unto your loving diligence, and with your leave,
I shall conceive it but a friendly Office,
To spare his labour, and walk up to him.
Exit Splend.
Keep.

Those stayrs direct you, turn on your left hand.

Enter to the Keeper Bellaflora.
Bella.

Are you the Keeper Sir?

Keep.
I turn the key, my Office is as much
To let men out as in; I take no pride,
To stand 'twixt men and freedome, suck a Keeper
I am, and would be thought.
Bella.

Heaven be thy Keeper, and grant thy place cor­rupt thee not; pray Sir, was there not brought in amongst other Gentlemen, a prisoner late last night, call'd Mr. Flylove?

Keep.

Yes Lady.

Bella.

How could I speak a word in private with him? the business which I have concerns his freedome.

Keep.

I shall be glad to call him, — Mr. Flylove.

Prisoners within.

Mr. Flylove, Mr. Flylove.

Ent. Flylove.
Fly.

What a noise you make, I'm become a man of cal­ling now; who is't would speak with me Sir.

Keep.

Here's a fair Lady, I'le leave you to your oppor­tunity.

Exit Keeper.
Fly.

Gramercy honest Keeper: How now, who's this? How my blood startles in me on the sudden?

Bella.

What, do I fright you Sir? I come to see and com­fort you with my best love to file your Fetters off.

Fly.
Such charitable language, and such face
Had beauteous Bellaflora, to whose soul
[Page]Mine was contracted, but my breach of vow,
Joyn'd with the infamy of this Ioath'd action,
So lately done, hath sent her far from me;
This is the pleasant widdow we met at Hogsdon,
I remember now;
But see how guilt will fool a man, I was
Admiring how you thought to finde me here.
Bella.
Some other time I'le tell you, if I may
(Without the breach of modest manners) ask you
What is the cause of your imprisonment?
Fly.

What a question's that? I'le lye ith' Compter all my life time, e're I make known the cause that laid me here, a toy, a trifle, for nothing but disputing with the Constable, here's Jack, Wildblood and Frank Rivers in the house (three merry boys be we) here's the woman too, will you go see them.

Bella.

No Sir, but if the cause of your restraint from freedom be of that easie value, you'l be gone within an hour.

Fly.

I, I, within this hour at the farthest.

Bell.
Poor man, how thou deceiv'st me and thy self,
aside
I as much blush to let him understand
I know the cause of his affliction,
As he doth to reveal it; if you please
I'le stay till you go off.
Fly.

You may stay this twelve-month for ought

aside

I know; I must put her off, to say the plain truth Lady I have an Action entred against me since I came in.

Bella.

You need not let that fright you, I have so much skill, although a very unexperienc'd woman to tell you, whilst you are under the command of any Justice for the breach oth' peace, you are not lyable to any Action.

Fly.

She says true, where the Devil got you so much law?

Bella.

Come, come, I know the cause that keeps you here.

Fly.

How! I am sorry for that.

aside.
Bell.

Is't not a womans Action?

Fly.

A womans Action.

Bell.

I have hit the mark, and I could name the party.

Fly.

Lady I'le take my leave, I'm call'd above.

Bella.
Indeed you are not Sir, pray stay a little,
I know you think the fact you have committed,
[Page]To be of that vile nature, that you blush
To tell or think I know it; you the less
Stand in my condemnation for the ill,
Because 'twas acted on so much deformity,
It makes me think some Witchcraft, drink, or madness
Possest you at that time; they being remov'd,
Your penitence brings back your ravisht worth,
And you are man agen, but the nice winner
Of every fair one's a judicious sinner,
And in that judgement multiplies each fact,
And findes his Tragedy in the last Act.
Fly.

This circumstance confirms your knowledge of it, And I am sorry.

Bell.

That I know't.

Fly.

Tis true.

Bella.
But if you please't shan't be the worse for you,
Would I were beautiful enough to please you,
Or had a mind that you might think so fair,
To merit your best wishes in the bliss
Of sacred Wedlock, you should then be sure
To shake this bondage off.
Fly.
Pray let me pause.
My former rashness may take license for't;
I am in prison, and the Law exacts
My body for a year; I could produce
Such bayl as is sufficient for my freedom,
But I will perish e'r I reveal my scandall;
This woman's fair, and hath a face so like
To one, whose memory I owe my being,
I know not what to answer; Then agen
'Tis for my freedom, from a bondage which
May ruine soul and body; I'm resolv'd,
If Bellaflora knew it, so would she,
And pardon all, which works my Liberty.
You do not ask me this to try me, do you?
Bella.

No by those joys I wish for.

Fly.
Nor tell me of my fact, or of your friendship,
At every angry occasion,
Which the best married pair seldome avoid.
Bella.
May all my life be made of discontents,
And they in old age kill me, if I do:
Fly.
[Page]
How neer she comes to Bellaflora still,
In all her noble actions; If I could
Believe the Pythagorean axioms true,
Of transmigrated spirits, did the Grave
Contain my Bellaflora, I should think
This frame contain'd her soul, the Gods would sure
Consume me, if this Contract I now make
And seal, this vertuous woman were not lawful:
By all the joys eternal, by the hopes
I have to live a life that's long and blest,
To see a numerous issue fairly bred
In all their actions, shewing still the minds
Of their long sleeping Ancestors, I'le bee
Thy husband, love, and life, I'le marry thee.
Bella.

This day.

Fly.

This very day.

Within.

Stephen Flylove, the Constable's come.

Keep.

Sir, the Constable waits for you.

Ent. keeper.
Bella.

Delay not, ith' mean time I'le bayle you here, Remember Sir.

Fly.

I doe.

Bella.

Adieu my dear.

Actus quintus,

Scaena prima.

Enter Flyl. Bellafl. Rivers, Mrs. Trimwel and Wildblood.
Wild.
W [...]lcome to liberty my Cavaliers,
The gawdy portalIs of the red-cheekt morn,
Stand wide to entertain you, and delight
Your sickned sences with the bright display
Of glittering Phoebus.
Rivers.

Your genius soars too high, you'l melt his wings.

Wild.
I am aiery as Philetus when he tripp'd
Over the ears of Corn, and ne'r bent head;
I could out-run Atlanta.
Rivers.
Atlanta? within these two hours a Cripple could
out-run thee, and give thee five in the fifteen:
But Stephen, why so stupid? rowse thy spirit;
Can Liberty discomfort, or the exchange
[Page]Of grates for fragrant fields dismay thee thus.
Fly.

Faith I am dull, and I ha' reason for't.

Wild.

What is the melancholly matter prethee?

Fly.

That which will move you all when I shall speak; Mercurio's dead.

Rivers.

Dead!

Wild.

He was well last night.

Fly.

He dy'd this morning.

Wild.

Oh my poor lost friend!

Rivers.

His cruel Creditor is paid; Oh my Mercurio!

Fly.
I knew 'twould dull you all as well as I,
This day his Funeral is, I hope you'l be
The sad spectators of his Obsequies,
Raynard the Keeper will instruct you when,
And tell you more, pray go and leave me here,
I have a sadness that concerns not you,
I'le put it off and meet ye.
Riv.

Good morrow Stephen.

Wild.

Farewel friend.

Mrs. Trim.

Good morrow Mr. Flyl.

Fly.

Your humble servant; Laday what stay you for?

Exe.
Bella.

Where would you have me be?

Riv. Wild. Mrs. T.
Fly.

Where you please; I can't command your being.

Bella.
What means my Love?
Your speech betrays some discontent in you.
Fly.

Yes, I'm troubled, Oh my sweet Bellaflora!

Bella.

Who do you sigh for Sir?

Fly.

A friend, a friend, an honest friend of mine.

Bella.

This is a time to banish discontents.

Fly.

No, no, to increase them.

Bell.

It is an hour was made to consecrate our holy contract

Fly.

Why I, I told you so.

Bell.

Will you not marry me.

Fly.
I will not break my faith to Bellaflora
To gain a Queen, a Goddess.
Bella.

Then you have plighted faith unto another.

Fly.

Yes cunning temptress I have.

Bell.
Why do you blemish my well-meaning heart,
With such a title?
Fly.
Could your securer subtilty presume
On no deceit but this? Had you propos'd
Out of some Magazine of rarities,
Gold, Silver, Jewels, [...]hough they were as precious
As Erephile's Bracelet (which she sold
[Page]Her dear affecting husband for) I had
Esteem'd them all as nothing, but weak I
Too fond of (what I now curse) Liberty,
Must sell my peace, my life, and much I fear
My bliss eternal.
Bella.
Oh you Angels, where
Lives there a faithful man, why did you make
This solemn Contract to me.
Fly.
'Twas a bad protestation, and the breach
Is better then performance, yet because
You shall not say I cheated favours from you,
Resign me to my prison, where I'le live,
Onely with thinking of my Bellaflora,
Her very name shall purifie the ayre,
And make a dungeon grow as fragrant,
As Meadow Flowers in triumphant June.
Bella.
Thou common man that dost two contracts break,
I have so much to say, I cannot speak.
Exit Bellaflora.
Fly.
Like men for Robberies that lose their breath,
I leave the prison to embrace my death.
Exit Flylove.
Enter Rivers and Mrs. Trimwel,
Mrs. Trim.

You are very wanton Frank.

Rivers.
Now I have got thee single, shall we try
An amorous duell for a boy now, I'm all fire,
And could perform an act 'bove Hercules;
Glue thy red lips to mine, and let us prove,
The jocund pleasure of the billing Dove.
They kiss.
Agen, once more, you do not do it heartily,
We'l make a numeration from a kiss,
Shall pose Arithmatick.
Mrs. Trim.

You'l tell of this.

Riv.

Steal, and reveal; he's a bold thief indeed.

Mrs. Trim.
There are too many such.
They cannot have a favour, — such a one.
Rivers.

I, such a one.

Mrs. Trim.
As you imagine, but they must reveal it,
As if it were a second sporf to tell it.
Rivers.
They glory in their actions, and would prove
How much they merit by their Ladies love;
This I disdain.
Mrs. Trim.
[Page]

Do ye use to talk in your sleep, you'l tell it to your bed-fellow.

Riv.

You are too jealous of me.

Mrs. Trim.
Come then, I'le try thee; kiss me,
That's the first peal to bed, but I won't trust ye.
Rivers.

Why do you mock me thus?

Mrs. Trim.
The cause being so great, I may be doubtful,
You'l have another Love, then out goes all,
But use your will.
Rivers.

To do thy will a pleasure, shall we be private.

Mrs. Trim.

As private as you please.

Rivers.

Such privacie best pleaseth.

Mrs. Trim.

Come let's away then.

They offer to off.
Rivers.

Stay (upon better thought) I have

Riv. returns.

No such desire to't.

Mrs. Trim.

How?

Riv.

Prethee be not angry, I am very loath to go to hell so easily.

Mrs. Trim.

What pretty change is this?

Riv.

I would it pleas'd you, pray satisfie one thought and I am for you.

Mrs. Trim.

Willingly.

Riv.

And truly.

Mrs. Trim.

By my life I will.

Riv.
Did never silken Gallant with queint words,
A fair proportion'd body, and smooth chin,
Such as you women like, tempt you to this,
This feat, before I mov'd you.
Mrs. Trim.

Never.

Riv.

Never, prethee bethink thy self, you doubt me still.

Mrs. Trim.

But you suspect me more, I vow never.

Riv.
How fain would I believe thee, if thou swear'st true,
Thou'rt fitter far for Heaven then this act,
Which thou shalt ne'r be guilty of for me;
What pitty 'tis to take fair new blancht Lawn,
And sprinkle ink on't; let not your husbands doubts,
Bred by your frequent absence, and such howers
Civility ne'r warranted, urge you
To acts that cause his shame, and your own shame.
Mrs. Trim.

Whats' your intent for this.

Riv.
I'le tel you.
The guilty giddy people, who conceive
All acts more vile then they appear,
Have spred an infamy upon us both,
Which if unquell'd, in time will fix a stain,
[Page](though causless) which no Rethorick can charm
To alteration; thus in brief I'le do,
By a most queint invention I have thought,
I shall return you to your husband, who
Shall with his love, not jealousie, embrace you,
And to the bold ears of the rumorous world,
Declare his errour, and your innocence.
Mrs. Trim.
A very modest way to do me mischief,
I thank you for your love, your honest love.
Rivers.

That you'l confess hereafter, will you go?

Exit
Mrs. Trim.
Yes Sir, I'le wait on you;
Am I betray'd by tricks? a Letter op'd,
The secret read, and then seal'd up agen?
Inquisitive fool, thy dear experience shall
Instruct thee, what a fate he undergoes,
That turns the fierce stream of a womans love:
I could be less impatient had he spoke
From knowledge of my guilt, then know my will,
And afterwards disclose me; well I'le disguise my anger,
And frame a fierce revenge shall make thee tremble,
Women act mischief sure when they dissemble.
Exit.

Act. 3. Scaen. 2.

Enter Mr. Nice and Splendora.
Nice.

Is the French Knight in prison, what is his debt?

Splen.

Six thousand pound they say Sir.

Nice.
Tis a great sum I have been wrong enform'd,
'Twas credibly reported on the Change,
He had a free estate, his Traffick great,
A most unquestion'd credit; and doth all
Conclude in this, they did not mean me well
That tempted my belief thus.
Splend.

Shall my suit have gracious hearing yet Sir?

Nice.
What for Mercurio?
Because I was so neer to be deceiv'd,
With the feign'd riches of a Bankerupt,
Would you betray your self to certain beggery.
Splen.
Will you be pleas'd to free him from his bondage?
It is reported he is sick, that place
Will kill him, where is then your satisfaction?
Nice.
[Page]
He cannot want a friend for twenty pound,
I will not lose my money, I'le take time,
If he can fit me with security.
Splen.

Alas he is not able.

Enter Mercurio on a Hearse, four Bearers (as Mourners) Wild. Riv. Flyl. Mrs. Trim. Raynard, Pimpwel. They set the Coffin before Nice, and Flylove makes an Oration.
Nice.
What are these; heark you friend, whose body's this?
And whither carry you it?
Fly.
Here Sir our journey ends,
It is the body of deceas'd Mercurio,
A prisoner at your suit, who dyed this morning,
And thus according to an ancient custome,
We bear him to you (all that's left)
His bones to make you satisfaction,
Because his poverty enforc'd him (living)
To keep your right from you; withall, our form
Is to deliver to the Creditor,
At whose peculiar suit the debtor dyes,— A bale of Dice.
Nice.

Strange custom; Heaven! now it doth amaze me.

Fly.
I have a little speech that must excuse
The expences of a bought Oration, which concerns
His miserable end, and cause of it, and I have done.
She sowns.
Splen.

Oh my Mercurio.

Riv.

Look to the Lady.

Fly.
When he came in he wanted all that makes
Man in this Age substantial (Friends and Coyn)
Which want was soon attended with these, neglect & hunger
But then the perturbations of his minde,
His sighing silence onely could declare,
As if they were too vast for elocution;
Great griefs are tongue-ty'd, there's no clamour rear'd,
So deepest waters crawl along unheard.
Nice.
Most reverend piece of sorrow, whose wet eyes
Drop, as they would command another Spring,
To raise the body from its earthly ruine,
To heat and life agen; what friendship had you with him?
Fly.
Sir, I am one,
That wish I had such neerness to his vertue,
As to his blood; a poor unhappy Kinsman.
Nice.
[Page]
There's so much Magick in your sorrow Sir,
All my attentions charm'd.
Fly.
Like men who are neer drowning, catch weak hold
On broken boords, on sedge, or any thing
Disastrous chance betrays to the wild waves,
He sends for me that could but grieve his sight,
With the wet sorrow in my eyes for him:
Instead of Chambers hung with Tapestry,
Arras, and Attick pictures, the dark walls
Are easly beautifi'd with Chalk and Cole,
According to the melancholly fancy
Of the sad Prisoners, where the numerous beds
Shew like so many Graves in a Churchyard,
With the men rising out: No Canopies
But what the charitable Spider wove,
To save their always watching eyes from danger,
For they'r un-us'd to sleep.
Nice.

Alas poor men.

Fly.
In such a state as this my kinsman lay,
My poor, poor kinsman.
Nice.

Thou weep'st too fast old man, I shal not overtake thee.

Fly.
I figh'd, sate down by him, and did observe
The manner of his Chamber-mates, and one
Belov'd above the rest, as it appear'd,
Was cherisht with a friend that happy day,
Who said he came to see him, could not stay,
Although some Messenger fix times had been
To fetch him, but in vain, was ne'r within
After he heard the business, though his eare
Was within hearing of the Messenger:
At last he was within, without all doubt,
Because he heard the prisoners going out,
Gives him a shilling, bids him have good cheer,
He was glad to see him, sorry to see him here,
And so he parts, protesting for to come,
He knows not when, this is his wretched doom
Of undone debtors, and my kinsmans Tomb.
Nice.
Since bleeding cleanseth veins, I hope to finde
Th'expence of tears will purifie the minde:
What is this writing Sir?
Fly.
[Page]
'Tis his own hand,
One hour befor his death he writ Epitaph.
Nice.

With his own hand? pray read it.

Fly.

I shall Sir.

EPITAPH.
I which once with life did move,
Here lye Coffin'd up, to prove
Till death I was Splendora's Love.
I that have with many groans,
And wet eyes washt the prison stones,
For want of Money, pay my bones.
Let none with exclamation call,
Upon my name, and scorn my fall,
I ow'd but little, and paid all.
Mercurie.
Nice.
Thou hast paid all indeed, thy breath and all,
Is't were no fin I could bestow a wish,
That life would visit these cold corps agen.
Fly.
Where shall we bury him Sir, the custome is
To bury men in debt ith' New-Churchyard;
Shall we dispose him there?
Nice.
No, since he's dead he shall be well interr'd,
Though half my estate waste for it, I have cause,
He lov'd Splendora, poor Girl she'l dye too;
To your charge I commit this forty pound,
Gives Rivers the Bag
To provide mourning; I'le have Surgeons strait,
That shall embalm the body.
Exit Rivers.
Fly.
You shew your self a noble Gentleman,
Whose memory we'l pray for; here Frank dispatch.
Rivers.

It shall be done.

Fly.
Sir, here be Gentlemen that lov'd him, are
Willing to express their loves, they have a Dirge.
Nice.

They are welcom, I'le attend their ceremony▪

They sing. The Dirge.
FRom selling, or from mortgaging of Lands,
From turning over goods in others hands,
And from the setting of our marks to bands.
Omnes Cant. Libera nos Domine.
From cruelty that keeps good men in awe,
From Serjeants, and such Griffins of the Law,
And from the chattering of an Yeild-hall Daw.
Libera nos Domine.
[Page]
From living at a miserable rate,
In prison where all people are ingrate;
And from the Porters at the Compter gate.
Libera nos Domine.
From being dragg'd in there with cruel gripes,
By an old cursed Catchpole called Tripes,
From paying for our Candles and our Pipes,
Libera nos Domine.
Next from the Stocks, the Hole, and Little-ease,
Sad places, which kind Nature do displease,
And from the ratling of the Keepers Keys,
Libera nos Domine.
Fly.

Is all perform'd?

Enter Rivers▪
Riv.

To a tittle, here's a discharge from the Office.

Fly.
Then rise from thy dead sleep thou man of care,
Thy debt is paid, there's joyful news for thee.
Nice.

Am I deluded,

Enter Splend.
Fly.
Not a jot, come old man embrace him for your son,
Though he be poor, he is a Gentleman, and meritorious.
Splend.

But art thou living?

Nice.

I, you know it well enough, you shall even go toge­ther for your plots, I have paid my self it seems.

Rivers.

Your Money lies ith' Office Sir.

Nice.

'Tis very well, who comes here?

Ent. Trimwel.
Wild.

Ware ho! here comes a mad man.

Trim.
Yes, a horn-mad man, Myruon are you there?
And your Sweetheart Rivers, I must part you;
Unhand him impudence.
Rivers draws.
Riv.

Sir, if you lay a violent hand on her, I touch your heart.

Trim.
Gentlemen, Is there law or conscience in this?
To keep a mans wife, as they say, in spight on's teeth.
Mrs. Trim.

F. Rivers is more kind then I expected,

aside
Rivers.
Your jealousie hath wrackt her vertuous name,
And by my life she's free from actual ill.
As e're thy mother was.
Mrs Trim.

He'l ne'r believe you,

Rivers.
No, he shall I warrant you,
E're I commit her to your cursed usage,
I'l see some reformation of your life.
Trim.

You'l see't.

Rivers.
[Page]
Yes Sir, I'le see't.
My Mothers daughter shall not be expos'd
Unto your giddy humors.
Trim.

Your Mothers daughter?

Riv.

Yes Sir, my Sister.

Mrs. Trim.

What trick is this?

Trim.

Pray what may I call your name Sir.

Rivers.
I never fear'd it, though I have disguis'd it,
For some ends which best concern my self,
Before I went to France, men that would know
By my own name to call me, call'd me Brooks.
Mrs. Trim.

My brother Frederick?

Rivers.

The same Sister; I must talk with you.

Trim.

Oh, my shame! Brother I hope you'l forgive me.

Rivers.

This is no time nor place for our contention.

Nice.

Who comes here?

Enter Bellaflora richly attired.
Fly.
Either my eyes deceive me, or here comes
The form of Bellaflora.
Bella.

What do you gaze? Do you not know me Sir?

Fly.

Yes sure, I know you; Are not you Bellaflora?

Bella.

That is my name.

Fly.

I know it is, but were not you disguis'd, and call'd Fairchaste?

Bell.

I remember your amorous Alphabet.

Fly.

O my strange excellent fortune; can you forgive all?

Bella.

Yes, and seal my self thy own for ever.

Wild.

My dear Cousin.

Bella.

How Sir?

Fly.

Tis so indeed, the Wildblood's out, this is your cousin Worthlove.

Bell.

Welcome from France good Cousin.

Wild.

Fair cousin I thank thee, this unity contents me.

Riv.

As I live here's Sir R. Lamard that broke the prison, how the devil dares he venter.

Ent. Sir Reverence.
Sir Rev.

Be your leave Zhentelmen, room for Sir Reveren. who be come to claim his Lady, his Madam.

Nice.

How came you out of prison Sir.

Sir Rev.

Begar me pay de mony, and now me come to your dautera.

Nice.

Now you have paid away your mony, the truth is, Sir she is dispos'd of to another.

Keep.

And we'l dispose of you that can break prisons.

Sir Rev.

Begar here be de Keeper, vat fall me do now?

Pim.
[Page]

Nay, you'r fast enough, we'l take an order for your sli­ding.

Sir Rev.

Zhentelmen vill no man be my bayl?

Nice.

The sum is too great for me.

Sir Rev.

Pray Zhentelmen.

Fly.

Not I.

Rivers.

Nor I.

Wild.

Nor I.

Keep.

Come Sir, you must to prison agen.

Sir Rev.

Mus, begar me vill not.

Pimpw.

Then we must force you Sir.

Sir Rev.
You Pimping rogue, why do you tug me thus?
You know me well enough.
Pim.

What is your tongue chang'd, what tricks have you?

Sir Rev.

I'le speak with Mr. Nice. Pray Sir, peruse that Picture and Letter.

Nice.

'Tis my wives picture sure; Splendora, was not this your Mothers picture?

Splend.

Yes Sir, the very same she gave my brother, when he went to Paris.

Nice

And this my hand, the Letter that I sent him.

Sir Rev.

And I your son, come to crave a blessing.

Nice.

And with my heart thou hast it.

Riv.

Will Nice.

Sir Rev.

Mr. Brooks your servant.

Fly.

Noble Mr. Nice.

Sir Rev.

Hah, my politick Stephen.

Fly.

No, my politick William.

Wild.

Sir I am yours, and joy to see you in England.

Splend.

Welcome to London brother, you can court a Lady most exactly in broken French.

Sir Rev.

I am glad it pleas'd you sister; Keepers I'le quit you presently, that Action which was entred was a plot of mine, to have my father match this Gentleman with my kind sister; there's no danger in't I can assure you.

Keep.

Well, I'm contented Sir.

Nice.

You are wags I see; were you sent seven years ago France, and come agen to cozen your friends, but Heaven be your joy. Come, cannot you express a little of your French action with these Ladies, shall we not have a Dance?

Fly.

And very fit, methinks the time requires it.

Rivers.

With all my heart.

Wild.

And mine.

Fly.

Every man take his Lady then.

They Dance.
Nice.
[Page]

Gentlemen, y'have done exceeding well; if you please to walk in, Dinner at this hour waits for you.

Fly.

Come my mad merry Mates and fellow-Travellers, let's in and chat the story of our Travels, the tricks of our Disguises, with the queint and jovial Humours which we have found ith' Compter.

To marry and be civill our next care is,
We now have done enough for Youths Fegaries.
FINIS.

Epilogue.

WEll; How is't now? we heard you laugh, but pray.
Was it at us, the Poet, or the Play?
The Poet's full of joy though, to the brim,
And sayes, he's sure ye do not laugh at him;
Because, he findes you onely laugh at that,
Which he desires may be worth laughing at:
And then he heard you Clap; that Verdict stands
In Law, he hath it under all your hands;
Vnless when we were freed from Woodstreet Den,
You had a plot to Clap us up agen:
But waving all, we (without more suspence)
Accept your Clapping in the better sense.
This is the sum, I have no more to say,
Either for Poet, Actors, or the Play:
If his dull Humours please not, we implore,
That you'l go all toth' Compter and see more.

THis Comedy, called, The Walks of Isling ton and Hogsdon, With the Humours of Woodstreet-Compter, may be Acted: This 2. August, 1641.

Henry Herbert.

This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Text Creation Partnership. Searching, reading, printing, or downloading EEBO-TCP texts is reserved for the authorized users of these project partner institutions. Permission must be granted for subsequent distribution, in print or electronically, of this EEBO-TCP Phase II text, in whole or in part.