The siege of Gibraltar: a musical farce: in two acts. As it is performed at the Theatre-Royal, in Covent-Garden. By F. Pilon.

The siege of Gibraltar: a musical farce: in two acts. As it is performed at the Theatre-Royal, in Covent-Garden. By F. Pilon.

Table of contents

Title page

ADVERTISEMENT.

CHARACTERS.

THE SIEGE of GIBRALTAR.

ACT I.

SCENE I. An Officer's Mess-room, Major Bromfield, Ensign Beauclerc, and a large Party of Officers—Wine, &c. on the Table.

SCENE II. Ben Hassan's House. Zayde and Jenny are discovered.

SCENE III. The Inside of the Garrison.

ACT II.

SCENE I. The Inside of the Garrison.

SCENE II. Ben Hassan's House.

SCENE III. A Moon-light View of the Streight and Part of the Rock of Gibraltar; a dead Calm, a small Vessel in view at Anchor, supposed to be waiting to carry Ben Hassan, Zayde, &c. to Barbary.

SCENE IV. A Room in Major Bromfield's House. The Stage dark—Ben Hassan discovered.

SCENE V. The Inside of the Garrison. A tumultuous Noise heard.

SCENE the last. A View of the Rock and Streight of Gibraltar; Rodney's Fleet in the Bay, after the Action; the Spanish Admiral dismasted, &c. riding with national Colours; the Army all drawn out with Artillery, &c. prepared for Action; a Boat is seen to come from one of the Ships; a Lieutenant and several Sailors come on Shore afterwards.

§

§

[Page]

THE SIEGE of GIBRALTAR: A MUSICAL FARCE, IN TWO ACTS As it is performed at the THEATRE ROYAL, IN COVENT-GARDEN.

By F. PILON.

LONDON: Printed for G. KEARSLY, No. 46, Fleet-street. MDCCLXXX. (Price ONE SHILLING.)

ADVERTISEMENT.

[Page]

THE very favourite Song of, "How stands the glass around, my boys?" is so peculiarly adapted to the situation in which it is introduced, that the Author hopes he will not be censured for the sacrifice he has made of originality in adopting it. It is moreover written in a spirit and taste which is much easier to admire than equal. As to the rest of the songs, they are all his own; and he fears he must trust more to the indulgence of the public in regard to them, than to any thing he can say, or has written in their favour.

CHARACTERS.

[Page]

MEN.

Major Bromfield, Mr. REINHOLD.

Ben Hassan, Mr. QUICK.

Beauclerc, Mr. MATTOCKS.

Serjeant O' Bradley, Mr. EGAN.

Serjeant Trumbull, Mr. WILSON.

Woolwich, Mr. EDWIN.

Lieutenant, Mr. WORDSWORTH.

1st Officer, Mr. BOOTH.

2d Officer. Mr. FEARON.

3d Officer, Mr. ROBSON.

Sailor, Mr. W. BATES.

1st Soldier, Mr. L' ESTRANGE.

2d Soldier, Mr. THOMPSON.

3d Soldier, Mr. WEWITZER.

1st Mob Mr. JONES.

2d Mob. Mr. LEDGER.

3d Mob. Mr. BRUNSDON.

4th Mob. Mr. BATES.

5th Mob. Mr. STEVENS.

WOMEN.

Zayde, Mrs. MORTON.

Jenny, Mrs. WILSON.

Moll Trumpet, Mrs. WHITE.

THE SIEGE of GIBRALTAR.

[Page]

ACT I.

SCENE I. An Officer's Mess-room, Major Bromfield, Ensign Beauclerc, and a large Party of Officers—Wine, &c. on the Table.

Major Bromfield.

(Fills his glass.)

COME, gentlemen, I'll give you the British arms all over the world.

All.

The British arms, &c.

(All drink.)

Beauc.

If the fleet have left England, the blockade by sea will be soon over; for when our admirals are in earnest, they generally make quick work on't.

1st Officer.

How soon do you think St. Rocque will open her batteries?

2d Officer.

Towards evening, I imagine.

[Page]M. Broom.

Then here's a speedy demolition to them.

(Fills.)

All.

(Fill their glasses.)

A speedy demolition, &c.—

(All drink.)

Beauc.

They can raise no batteries to make any impression; our works are actually impregnable, and if the strength of this fortress be consider'd, it may without fable be call'd one of the pillars of Hercules.—

M. Broom.

It is a pillar of the British empire, and therefore should be defended 'till made the monument of its protectors.

Enter 1st Soldier.

1st Sold.

A serjeant, gentlemen, is come with orders from the Governor.

M. Broom.

Tell him to come in.

(Exit soldier.)

Enter Serjeant O' Bradley.

What! O' Bradley, is it you? It's a wonder to see you sober just before an engagement!

O' Brad.

Why in troth your honour, it was not for want of good will, but there's no such thing as getting a drop for love or money.

M. Broom.

Come, let's see your book,

(O' Bradley gives the Book.)

Give him some wine—We'll prime you, O' Bradley.

O' Brad.

As your honour's hand's in, I wish to he Lord you'd load me, and you'd see how fine I'd go off against the Spaniards.

[Page]3d Off.

(Giving him wine.)

Here, O' Bradley.

O' Brad.

(Smelling to the wine.)

Och! your honour, I wish you would change the wine into brandy, for I am afraid the wine is too strong for me.

M. Broom.

By all means;—fill him some brandy.

3d Off.

Here, O' Bradley;

(Fills a glass of brandy)

and now your toast.

O' Brad.

A toast! by my soul, your honour, as I am a great way from it, I don't think I can give you a better toast than my native country; and so here's the land we live in.

(O' Bradley drinks.)

All.

Hh! ha! ha!

O' Brad.

Faith, I thought you would laugh at me; for the last time I gave the land we live in, I was at sea, and they sarved me in the same manner.

M. Broom.

Why you live in Gibraltar: how the devil can you give that as your native country?

O' Brad.

I am sorry to contradict your honour, but I never think I live any where but in England or Ireland.

M. Broom.

Gentlemen, this is no time for continuing at the bottle; the Governor expects us upon duty in less than two hours.

O'Brad.

By the sweet smell of the shamrock, it is the joyfullest tidings I have heard this twelvemonth: there's not a gun in the garrison but will thank me when I carry the news to him: but I hope, your honour, there's no fear of a disappointment.

3d Off.

Why are you afraid we shant beat 'em?

[Page]O' Brad.

Och hone! I am sure of that; I was only afraid that they would not stay 'till we did them the favour.

M. Broom.

Well we have no farther occasion for you, O' Bradley.

O' Brad.

I hope your honour won't think me too bold if I ask a favour before I go.

M. Broom.

What is it?

O' Brad.

Why if your honour pleases, I should have no objection to the second part of the same tune.

M. Broom.

The same tune! What tune do you mean?

O' Brad.

(Printing archly at the table.)

The tune, jewel, upon the musical glasses.

M. Brom.

O, you want another glass of brandy! Here;

(Fills.)

but take care so much spirits don't get into your head.

O' Brad.

What, is it the Brandy you mean? By my soul, there's no danger of that: brandy's a French spirit, and that never got into an Englishman's head or his heart either when he was going to battle; therefore as I am an Irishman, there's no fear of me; so here goes, I am sure it won't choak me.

(Drinks and exit.)

All.

Ha! ha! ha!

2d. Off.

Before we go, one parting glass to England and victory.

[Page]

AIR.

M. BROWN and BEAUCLERK.

How stands the glass around?

For shame! you take no care, my boys:

How stands the glass around?

Let mirth and wine abound,

The trumpets sound;

The colours they are flying, boys,

To fight, kill or wound.

May we still be found

Content with our hard fate, my boys,

On the cold ground.

II.

Why, soldiers, why,

Should we be melancholy, boys?

Why, soldiers, why?

Whose business 'tis to die;

Hang sighing, fie!

Damm fear, drink on, be jolly, boys,

'Tis he, you, or I.

Cold, hot, wet or dry,

We're always bound to follow, boys,

And scorn to fly.

[Page]

III.

'Tis but in vain,

I mean not to upbraid ye, boys;

'Tis but in vain

For soldiers to complain:

Should next campaign

Send us to him who made us, boys,

We're free from pain,

But if we remain,

A bottle and kind landlady

Cure all again.

Exeunt all but Major and Ensign.

Beauc.

Dear Major, will you indulge me with a moment's conversation?

M. Broom.

What's the matter, Frank?

Beauc.

You were my father's friend; he put me under your care when I came into the army, and I have ever looked up to you as to himself.

M. Broom.

This is very true, but what does it preface?

Beauc.

You know my passion for old Ben Hassan's daughter; indeed you approved of it.

M. Brom.

And is this a time to think of such sollies? just when you are going to action! Recollect yourself, boy, you are a soldier, your father was one; dishonour never changed his cheek, and don't you bring a blush there in his old age.

Beauc.

Your reproach stings me to the very soul; I have done with her, I'll tear her from my heart for ever.

[Page]M. Broom.

Your hand, Frank; now you are a man again.

Beauc.

But give me leave to do away the very shadow of cause for this degrading notion being entertained of my nature. I meant only to have told you, that the lovely woman in whom my whole life and happiness are wrapped up, is this very night to be conveyed privately to Barbary, in order to be married to Solomon the Jew, whom you have often seen at her father's.

M. Broom.

But are you sure of this?

Beauc.

An Arabian slave, in whom she places great confidence, told me of it; but it is no matter, you have convinced me of the impropriety of my passion, and I resign her.

M. Broom.

She's a devilish fine woman, Frank.

Beauc.

I have drove her from my thoughts, sir.

M. Broom.

No, no, Frank, you shan't lose her neither, if in my power to prevent it. Let me see;

(looks at his watch)

I'll give you an hour; go see her, and learn the time, and in what manner she and her Hebrew partner set off.

Beauc.

Dear sir, are you serious?

M. Brom.

Unless we silence the Spanish batteries, the old Moor will hardly venture his daughter out this night. If we should, you shall patrole the very hour they are going off, and stop her.

Beauc.

But, sir, can I be so long absent from my post, without injury to my reputation?

M. Broom.

Poh, poh! you are a blockhead; if the story was published all over the garrison, it would not [Page] [...] [Page] [...] [Page] hurt you, for I never knew a brave fellow, (notwithstanding what I said to you) who did not acknowledge that beauty reigned by right divine, and that there was no resisting the supremacy of a petticoat.

AIR.

BEAUCLERC.

The moment I saw her, my heart took alarm;

I found that my freedom was gone:

With transport I gaz'd on each delicate charm,

Yet dar'd not to hope them my own.

But what did I feel when I told her my flame,

And she breath'd with a sigh that her's was the same!

II.

In praise of my fair I could dwell with delight,

From blushing Aurora's first rise,

'Till Phoebus had yielded his sceptre to-night,

And Venus reign'd queen of the skies;

Then wake with the nightingale all the night long,

And pay with my sighs the musician's sweet song.

Exit Major and Beauclerc.

SCENE II. Ben Hassan's House. Zayde and Jenny are discovered.

Jenny.

Dear madam, I am ready to faint with fright; I hear they are just going to carbonade us.

Zayde.

You are a great coward, Jenny.

Jenny.

Lord, ma'am, how can I help it? this is the first time I was ever besieged in my life.

[Page]Zayde.

Is Muley returned?

Jenny.

I don't know, indeed, your ladyship. O what would I give to be with my poor mother in Turnagain-lane at Wapping!

Zayde.

I wish, Jenny, I could inspire you with a little of my resolution.

AIR. (Omitted in the Representation.)

Zayde.

Tho' war and danger threaten round,

No fear my thoughts molest;

For he who gives the deepest wound,

Has only made me blest.

II.

Love fills my heart, but not one sigh

The little tyrant brings;

For when from him a dart did fly,

He lent my hopes his wings.

Jenny.

O, ma'am, you make a perfect Nero of me.

Enter Muley behind—(He taps Jenny on the shoulder; she shricks.)

Jenny.

O lord, ma'am, they are come!

Muley.

O lord, ma'am, they are not come; pluck up your spirits; you'll not be shot—perhaps these two hours.

[Page]Zayde.

Have you seen him, Muley?

Muley.

And expect his signal at the lattice every moment; but remember you resign yourself entirely to my direction.

Zayde.

It is strange my father should place so implicit a confidence in you.

Muley.

Not at all; he purchased me at Cairo from an Arabian merchant when I was but four years old. I never saw the father who begat me, nor the mother who brought me into the world. He knows I have no brother, no sister, no tie of kindred upon earth, to make my affections wander from this spot. He thinks I look up to him as my only relation, but my attachment to my dear mistress, united to the natural passion of man for liberty, which only with life leaves us, makes me do a violence to my nature, and for the first time deceive him.

Zayde.

He took uncommon pains with your education.

Muley.

I am an Arabian, madam, and perhaps may thank my faculties more than my preceptors.

Jenny.

I vow, Mr. Muley, this is the first time I ever knew you was a Barbarian.

Muley.

And it is the first time I knew it myself.

Jenny.

I thought you Barbarians had generally two heads at least.

Muley.

Two heads, to be sure, would be a great ornament to a man, but with the additions generally made by a fashionable wife, they are more, I am sure, than any man could carry upon his shoulders—but you'll not forget your promise, madam?

Zayde.

I certainly will take you with me to England; [Page] with regard to your freedom, I may be silent; the moment you set your foot on the island, you are no longer a bondsman; the charter of England is Liberty; you cannot breath its air and be a slave.

AIR.

ZAYDE.

Generous Britain scorns to bind,

In servile chains, the freeborn mind:

Her sons art brave, her daughters fair,

And Freedom lives a phoenix there.

Generous Britain, good as brave,

Bestows that blessing on the slave.

II.

How slight are gems, how poor is gold,

In climes where man is bought and sold!

A brighter jewel Freedom shines,

Than ever glow'd in Indian mines.

Generous Britain, good as brave,

Bestows that jewel on the slave.

A tap is heard at the window.

Zayde.

O heavens I here he is; let him in immediately.

Muley.

Go you, Jenny.

Exit Jenny.

I must stand centinel, to prevent your father's stealing a march upon us.

Exit Muley.

[Page] Re-enter Jenny, introducing Beauclerc.

Beauc.

At the risque of my life, at the risque of my reputation, which I hold dearer, I am come to you; when, my angel, are you to go off? in what disguise? let me know every particular without delay; not a moment I am here but is big with danger.

Zayde.

Fear and joy almost rob me of utterance! We are, if possible, to leave this about twelve, dressed in coarse Moorish habits; a little red cross, the emblem of your faith, I'll wear upon my breast to distinguish me.

Enter Muley.

Muley.

Your father, madam, is coming.

Beauc.

Let me out instantly!

Muley.

You must not go yet, sir; I was prepared for this: here, clap on this turban and this habit—(Beauclerc puts on the habit and turban)—now don't open your lips, but nod and make signs—leave the rest to me.

Enter Ben Hassan.

Ben.

(Speaks at entering)

Daughter Zayde.

Zayde.

I attend your pleasure, sir.

Ben.

By the tomb of Mahomet, she shall go this night—

(Seeing Beauclerc)

—What, a stranger in my house! Who is this fellow, Muley?

Muley.

Lord, sir, don't you know him?

Ben.

Know him! how the devil should I know him! who is he?

Muley.

That's my brother, sir.

Ben.

Your brother, you dog! you never saw one of your family in your life, and how have you found out that this fellow is your brother?

[Page]Muley.

By the meerest accident in the world: you must know, sir (for I never knew it 'till my brother here told me of it) that I was stolen from my parents, at two months old, by a Gypsey, who sold me, at Cairo, to the merchant of whom you bought me; my father, who loved his children dearer than his life, had six sons besides myself—

(looks at Beauclere)

seven! I beg your pardon, my father, sir, had seven sons beside myself.

Ben.

Damn your father and his seven sons; rascal, who are you talking to?

Muley.

My brother, sir; did'nt you see how angry he was at the mistake I made?

Ben.

Why, the fellow has'nt open'd his lips.

Muley.

Dear sir, let me go on with my story, and you shall know all by-and-by: my father, sir, who had seven sons besides myself, and loved his children dearer than his life, left it, upon his death bed, that a third of the estate, together with the family pictures—

Ben.

Family pictures!

Muley.

Yes, sir, (which were very valuable) should go to whoever found his lost sheep; for you must know, sir, he used always to call me his lost sheep.

Ben.

Your sleece, Mr. Lost Sheep, is in great danger of a good threshing, I can tell you that.

Muley.

Fortunately, sir, this brother, whose name is Sinbad, after numberless perils and hardships, put up at the very inn at which you lodged at Cairo; the landlord, who had heard of the misfortunes of my [Page] family, introduced him to the merchant of whom you bought me; the merchant kindly introduced him to your broker, and the good-natured broker never rested, night or day, 'till he actually found out the identical ship and captain in which, sir, you sailed with me from Cairo; on board this, sir, he embarked about a fortnight since; and, after a short passage, arrived at Algiers in Barbary, from which place he came, last night, with a fresh supply of cabbages, live oxen, and fat turkies.

Ben.

Such a cargo of lies, I believe, never were jumbled together in so small a compass: why, you dog, I'll have you impaled alive for bringing a male into my house.

Muley.

A male! dear sir, look at this upper lip.

Ben.

Eh! why, he has got no mustachios.

Muley.

Mustachios, sir, he was ten years in the seraglio at Constantinople.

Ben.

Come, I'll ask the fellow some questions myself.

Muley.

You may spare yourself the trouble, sir, for (poor fellow) he is dumb.

Ben.

Dumb!

Muley.

Dumb, sir.

Ben.

Then how the devil could he have given you this circumstantial account of your lost sheep, and your estate, and your family pictures, you dog!

Muley.

By signs;—do but look at him, sir, what do you think he is saying now?

Ben.

Why, nothing.

Muley.

He says that, in his travels through the different parts of the globe, he never met a gentleman [Page] of such a mild, humane and winning disposition, or one in whose service he would be more willingly employed.

Ben.

Why, truly, he is not an ill-looking fellow; but it is a great pity he is dumb.

Muley.

Sir, you'll understand him, as well as I do, in less than a fortnight; he was in great repute at the court of Persia, for several years, as a dumb interpreter.

Ben.

Well, take hi [...] in, and give him some refreshment; I don't know but I may employ him.

Muley.

Look at him, do but look at him, sir; if you did but understand him, you'd be delighted with his gratitude.

Ben.

Ay! what does he say?

Muley.

Say, sir! it would keep me here this hour if I was to tell you all; but, sir, in a word, he says his gratitude has struck him dumb.

Exit Muley and Beauclere.

Ben.

Truly, this is an odd adventure; come Hither, Zayde; I hope, child, you are better reconciled to your duty than I found you this morning?

Zayde.

Sir, I am ready to obey your pleasure, and long for the night.

Ben.

You transport me, my dear girl!

Jenny.

And I'll go with her with a joyful, heart.

Ben.

O, then you are reconciled, Mrs. Pert, to Visit Barbary.

Jenny.

Barbary, sir! I'll go to the Antidotes with her.

Ben.

And this morning you would go to the devil sooner than you would go to Barbary; but I expect [Page] no more regularity from a woman than a weathercock.

AIR.

Like a weather cock's a woman's will,

With every blast it's veering still;

As the wind blows,

Around it goes,

No whirligig so quick;

Stop it if you can,

But no mortal man

Steady to a point cou'd ever make it stick.

II.

You may think when a woman's a wife,

That she rusts to a point for life;

It's no such thing,

She'll have her fling;

Like a weather-cock still,

Round about she goes,

As the wind then blows,

And the devil to a point can't fix her will.

SCENE III. The Inside of the Garrison.

Enter two Soldiers.

1st Sold.

A very strange command this;—dam'me, I wish I was governor.

2d Sold.

Then I should wish myself out of the garrison.

[Page]1st Sold.

But why should he let them raise their batteries?

2d Sold.

For the pleasure of knocking them down again.

1st Sold.

That is something to be sure; but, in the mean time, we are doing nothing, and I hate to be idle.

2d Sold.

You know nothing of the matter; Touchwood, the governor, is a brave fellow, and a fine officer; he knows the true English way of fighting; he wants a mark to level at; they are raising their works now like children building houses of cards; the moment they are finished, puff from the garrison—and they are down again.

Enter Woolwich, with several other Matrasses and Soldiers; some drawing on Artillery, others loaded with Ammunition, &c.

3d Sold.

Come, pull away, my hearty cocks, we'll be at them presently.

Wool.

Stay one minute, my dear lads, 'till I take a little refreshment: I have not wet my lips the Lord knows when.

(Drinks out of his canteen.)

3d Sold.

Wet your lips! you have done nothing but drink all the morning—and let me tell you, Woolwich, it's not the part of a good soldier to get drunk when he's just going to engage an enemy.

Wool.

It's a damn'd lie, I am not drunk; I know my duty better than to get drunk. If I was to drink the sea at a time like this, it would have no kind of effect upon me: Come, will you taste?

(Offers him his canteen.)

[Page]3d Sold.

Not I.

Wool.

More fool you! for if you happen to be killed by and by, you'll have lost a taste of the finest Nantz ever was swallowed.

(Drinks.)

Enter Moll Trumpet.

Moll.

Well, gemmen, Heaven be praised, we are going to be at the villains at last.

Wool.

Well said, Old Brandy Bottle; are you come to see the sport?

Moll.

That I am: I am an English woman every inch of me.

3d Sold.

Come, pull away, my lads, we lose time.

Wool.

Stay one minute 'till I take leave of an old acquaintance: this is Moll Trumpet, gentlemen, a lady I have known for many years, and one who has lived in great credit, considering her age and occupation.

Moll.

Aye, that I have, Mr. Woolwich; I am an old standard in Gibraltar.

Wool.

An old standard indeed, Moll; for your staff is almost worn out in the service, and your banner here before you

(Taking up her apron)

is as venerably ragged as any in St. Paul's jubilo.

Moll.

Ah, Mr. Woolwich, it's hard times with me during a siege; I have not had a gentleman in my house since it began, and yesterday morning the Governor threatened to shut it up, only because a lady was seen going out of it a little overtaken in liquor—the best of houses may be ruined for want at customers.

(Crying.)

Wool.

Don't cry, Polly; things must come round again: we shall see the Eagle-and-Child flourish again [Page] in spite of France and Spain united. I remember what you have done; I look upon you like an old mortar that had been in Marlbro's wars, and would wish to see you after all your campaigns, laid up snug in the warren. Come, one parting drop with your old friend, Tom Woolwich.

(Drinks.)

Moll.

That I will with all my heart; here's a health to the garrison, and all the gentlemen soldiers in it; and may we beat the Spaniards home again!—

Drinks.

Wool.

Why, there's a loyal soul for you; but this is all owing to the Nantz she has drank in her time; then, see what a fine complexion it has given her: she's as rosy as the gills of a Barbary Cock.

Moll.

Ah, good Nantz is an excellent cordial.

Wool.

Come, tip us a stave, Moll.

Moll.

Lord! Mr. Woolwich, I can't sing; it's all over with me.

Wool.

Can't you? why, you used to have a fine pipe; it was clear as good Holland's, and as strong as good brandy—what! and all over? Well, if you won't sing, I will.

AIR.

WOOLWICH.

He can best,

Stand the test,

Who's a good fellow;

Drink about,

See it out,

Drink until you are mellow.

[Page]

II.

Then let us dance and sing, boys,

Whilst we are able;

Take a hearty fling, boys,

Death's but a fable.

III.

Strike up the fife and drum then,

With rub a dub sweet;

Ne'er mind your heads like brave men,

But look to your feet.

IV.

I feel my blood,

Like any flood,

Mount up so, blood and thunder!

And grow so bold,

I scarce can hold,

My stormy valour under.

Then bravely on, my hearts of steel,

The haughty foe is vap'ring;

We'll teach the dogs an English reel,

And quickly set them capering.

(Firing heard at a distance.)

3d Sold.

What the devil! the enemy have opened their batteries; let's be gone.

Wool.

Pull away, my lads, pull away; that's my hearts of gold, pull away: oh, we'll fight, dam'me! 'till we're not able to stand.

3d Sold.

You seem much in that state already, Woolwich; but pull away, my lads.

(More firing.)

Exeunt all but Woolwich.

[Page]Wool.

There they go, there they go, dam'me! this is the soldier's music, and the Spaniards shall dance to some tune before we have done playing it.

Exit.

(Very loud alarms, cannonading, drums, trumpets, &c. are heard at different distances behind the scenes; several soldiers, townsmen, women, &c. cross the stage to and fro: after some time, the cannonade ceases; a general shout is heard; then the Scene draws, and shews the batteries of Gibraltar and of St. Rocque at a distance. The troops march down attended by a vast concourse of people, all crouding to express their joy.)

Trum.

(To the crowd.)

What the de'el can't ye stand back a wee? there's nae sic a thing as ganging for ye.

1st Mob.

Ah, Master Serjeant, we are glad to see you come back safe.

O' Brad.

By my soul, and so we are ourselves; not that I cared a trawneen how things went; for if I had been killed in the action, the devil fire the word I would ever have said about it afterwards.

M. Broom.

(To the soldiers.)

Gentlemen and fellow soldiers, I thank you in the name of my king and country, for your spirit, your zeal, and you bravery: the Governor will transmit an immediate account to England, of the success which has attended his Majesty's arms, in which every justice shall be done to the conduct of the troops during the action.

Soldiers and Populace. Huzza! huzza! huzza!

[Page]

AIR and CHORUS.

Major BROMFIELD.

Let the music of war praclaim to the skies

The conflict our arms have with stood;

Where smoaking in ruins St. Rocque yonder lies,

Our triumph's recorded in blood.

CHORUS.

Crown'd with conquest, crown'd with same,

Now the soldier boasts his feats:

Thus may foes retire with shame

From our armies and cur fleets.

II.

Old story relates what our fathers have done

When no hope of safety was near;

Undaunted as lions on death they have run,

And conquer'd, or died on the spear.

CHORUS. Crown'd, &c.

III.

May time as he rolls down his stream from its urn,

Proclaim that a Briton is free;

And Fame, with the voice of an angel, return,

He conquers by land and by sea.'

CHORUS. Crown'd, &c.

END OF THE FIRST ACT.

[Page]

ACT II.

SCENE I. The Inside of the Garrison.

Enter Serjeant O'Bradley and Serjeant Trumbull.

Trum.

HOOT awa, mon; though We hae demolished St. Rocque, you dinna ken how long the siege may last.

O' Brad.

It will last 'till it is over, to be sure, my jewel.

Trum.

It may last sax months for aught ye can deveen; therefore it becomes you to be frugal of your allooance.

O' Brad.

Poh! what the devil would you have me starve myself!

Trum.

Ye have nae kind of aiconomy, nae forecast; you dinna heed the proverb—clap your hand twice to your bonnet for once to your pouch; aw gangs oot, naething gangs in.

O' Brad.

Och that's true enough, for the devil a thing has gone into my mouth this morning but a glass of brandy—

(Aside)

—I won't tell this Scotch thief I have had two glasses, for may be he'd be for having one of them.

Trum.

Ye should nae ha da drank it.

O' Brad.

What the devil, would you have me refuse it!

Trum.

I would nae have ye refuse any thing that's guid; but ye should ha saved part oot; a wise man will always save a part oot of his income, be it ever so small; and if I had nae mair than a Scotch poond a-day—

[Page]O' Brad.

Arrah how much is a Scotch pound?

Trum.

A Scotch poond is an English penny.

O' Brad.

So you'd have me live upon a penny a-day!

Trum.

I ha' mair alconomy, friend; I'd live upon hauf on't, upon a bawbee, and save the residue for further exigencies.

AIR.

TRUMBULL.

Ye silly loon, ye di'na wot

Haw care and sorrows wait:

The hapless chield whose purse is oot,

He then may gang his gait.

Na bonny lass will think him fair,

His vary freends will taunt him fare;

And when in wretched pickle,

Aw will agree

The smawest wee

Will help to make a mickle.

II.

When the peure wight his hose are rent,

And honnet wore thread-bare,

And nought within his wom is pent

But the thin collar air:

Then should he chance a friend to meet,

He'll ha' nae smile or mull sae sweet,

Adoon the tear will trickle;

And he'll agree

The smawest wee

Will help to make a mickle.

Noise without.

What the deel's here to do?

[Page]

Enter Woolwich.

Wool.

(at entering)

Come along, my boys, here's the stuff. Ah, Serjeant O' Bradley! are you there? I have a great respect for you and for your country; you are an Irishman, I think.

O' Brad.

So they tell me, Mr. Woolwich; but it is so long since I was there that I may be mistaken.

Wool.

My dear lad, let nobody persuade you to the contrary; Saint Patrick himself could not speak the language in greater purity;

A shout heard.

Enter a Party if Soldiers, drawing on a Cask of Liquor with a Cock in it.

1st Sold.

Huzza! long life to the General.

2d Sold.

He has given us something for demolishing St. Rocque.—

(They all crowd about the cask.)

Wool.

There, there, there, you see how eager they all are; these are brave fellows, but they have no conduct; every soul of them would get drunk if I did not prevent them.

O' Brad.

And who the devil would blame them? Upon such a day as this, I'd drink 'till I was not able to speak; and afterwards give the British Arms in a bumper.

Wool.

Serjeant O' Bradley, I have a great respect for you and for your country, damn me if I ha'n't; but the worst of the Irish is, they are terribly given to drinking.

Trum.

(Aside)

By the lord this is the pot slandering the kettle; I wish I had the cawsk in my ain possession, and the de'el a drop either should hae.

[Page]Wool.

I see you are all bent upon intoxication, but if possible I will prevent your making beasts of yourselves. So here, my dear hearts, here, soberly, soberly; place the cask here, place it here, I say.

Trum.

What the de'el! have a care you do nae spill the liquor.

Wool.

Spill the liquor! no, no, I'd spill my heart's blood first—keep it steady, steady, my dear hearts—

(gets astride the cask)

—now I have every thing snug, under my own eye.

AIR.

WOOLWICH.

Like tun-bellied Bacchus I sit,

A cask of good liquor astride;

For foot-service no longer fit,

I thought it most prudent to ride.

II.

A glass for my sword I will wield,

A bottle my carbine shall be;

So, dam'me, I've taken the field,

And am arm'd, you will own, cap-a-pee,

III.

Fellow-soldiers, your valour I know,

When good liquor's the blood to be spilt;

Then come let us dart on the foe,

We'll fight, 'till the cask's on the tilt.

Chorus.

[Page] (During the time Woolwich sings his Song, the Liquor is given among the Soldiers, who occasionally join in Chorus, congratulate each other, &c. Then the Cask is roll'd off, (Woolwich still sitting astride) the Soldiers all follow, huzzaing.

SCENE II. Ben Hassan's House.

Enter Jenny, meeting Muley.

Jenny.

Mr. Muley, Mr. Muley.

Muley.

What's the matter, my little English Rose?

Jenny.

Did not my master say he would go with us?

Muley.

Yes; a'n't you glad of it?

Jenny.

Won't it spoil all?

Muley.

By no means; I wanted him to go with us.

Jenny.

I wish to the lord I was once out of Gibraltar; though, indeed, Mr. Muley, I don't like to go to Barbary; pray, what kind of a place is it? do the people eat, and drink, and sleep as we do?

Muley.

Eat and drink, and sleep as we do, Jenny! why, to be sure, there is this observation I have made on the people of Barbary: they never eat when they have got nothing to sit down to; as to drinking, it's much the same; and as to sleeping, in the whole course of my travels through the country, I never met with man, woman or child, able to get a wink of sleep, who was not extremely drowzy.

Jenny.

Dear me, dear me, what a terrible account do you give of them!

[Page]

AIR.

JENNY.

When first I came here, I was sure

That my fortune was made,

My place was so good, and all so pure,

I vow, as I'm a maid.

I thought that things would never alter;

Ah! why did I come to Gibraltar!

II.

'Twas told on the cards I must travel,

And two husbands should have;

But e'en six are of little avail,

If my life I can't save.

I thought that things wou'd never alter;

Ah! why did I come to Gibraltar!

Exeunt Muley and Jenny.

SCENE III. A Moon-light View of the Streight and Part of the Rock of Gibraltar; a dead Calm, a small Vessel in view at Anchor, supposed to be waiting to carry Ben Hassan, Zayde, &c. to Barbary.

Enter Ensign Beauclerc, Serjeant O' Bradley, Serjeant Trumbull, and the Patrole.

Beauc.

Station yourselves here; yonder is the vessel they mean to go off in. Bring them to Major Bromfield directly; put the old man into the dark room, and tell him it is a dungeon—the young lady and her slave you must conduct to me.

[Page]Trum.

Guid sir, say nae mair; your orders shall be obeyed impleacitly.

Beauc.

But don't think I expect your services for nothing; if you succeed, I will reward you amply.

Exit Beauclerc.

Trum.

Do you hear that, friend O'Bradley? A mon loes a thing with a guid heart, when there's a prospect of advantage. Ha! by my saul, here they come; haud back awee and observe them.

Enter Ben Hassan, Muley, Zayde and Jenny, disguised in coarse Moorish Habits.

Jenny.

When, ma'm, do you think we shall disembark?

Ben.

Hold your cursed tongue, hussey; we shall alarm the patrole.

Muley.

Ecod, sir, that's done already; I think I see 'em yonder; retire, retire a little, while I reconnoitre them.—

(He comes forward, meeting the serjeants and the patrole. Ben Hassan, Zayde and Jenny retire.)

Trum.

Stand! wha gangs there?

Muley.

A friend.

Trum.

We do no ken that; 'tis nae aw gold that glisters; call to mind the proverb, friend; "a blawck hen may lay a white egg, and many a fair apple wi a speckled bonny cheek, is unsound at the kernel."

O' Brad.

Where did you come from?

Muley.

I was born in Africa.

O' Brad.

You blockhead, I don't ask where you was born, I only want to know what countryman you are.

Muley.

I am an Arabian.

[Page]O' Brad.

An Arabian! oh, by my soul, I knew a great many of your countrymen at the Curragh of Kildare, and at Newmarket likewise. What is your name?

Muley.

Muley.

O' Brad.

Muley! As sure as a gun, this fellow is half-brother to Gimcrack or Sweepstakes.

Muley.

I know no Gimcrack or Sweepstakes.

O' Brad.

The more's the pity; but as it is a family known to be fine runners, I'll secure you before you put in for the plate.

(Seizes Muley.)

Trum.

Yonder's more of 'em, and I believe they are all traitors, conveying intelligence to the enemy.—

(Ben Hassan, Zayde and Jenny are seized and brought forward.)

Jenny.

Oh dear gentlemen, I am no traitor, I am a poor little English girl, and love my country better than all the world; I would not hurt a worm, if it came from England.

Trum.

It's nae matter, ye mun gang before the Governor, to be examined; we have certain information of your being spies.

Ben.

Spies! oh lord, it is no such thing; I am a poor harmless old man, who was going to Barbary with his daughter to avoid the danger of the siege.

O' Brad.

To avoid danger! why, if there was nothing else against you, that's enough to prove you a traitor. What right have you, you old Moorish Spalpeen, to run away to save your life, when I and my comrades are obliged to stand to have my brains knock'd out fresh and fasting every morning?

Ben.

I'll give you a thousand pistoles and let me [...]o.

[Page]Trum.

What, a bribe! there's more in this, friend O' Bradley, than we deveen'd; it will be a bonny piece of work, my lads: bring them away; I'll shew no mercy to sic abominable traitors.

(They are taken off.)

Enter Major Bromfield and Beauclerc.

Brom.

Zayde and her slave are to be brought back immediately; I suppose you were particular in your order about the room he is to be confined in; I hope it is dark enough.

Beauc.

He shall not have a ray of light; though his own fears would cast gloom enough about him.

Enter Zayde, Jenny and Muley.

Oh, charming, lovely woman, I adore you for your spirit as much as your beauty; how near was I losing you!

Zayde.

My dear Beauclerc, use my father gently; he is terrified to death.

Muley.

I'll go, sir, instantly, and conclude the business.

M. Brom.

Not without me, friend; I am now Governor, and you must have my passport to your prisoner.

Jenny.

Then take me too, sir, I am sure I am no traitor.

Brom.

With all my heart, my little countrywoman. Frank, "how sweet the moonlight sleeps upon that bank!" "In such a night as this!"—Ha! ha! ha! Good night, Troilus and Cressida.

Exeunt Major, Muley and Jenny.

[Page]Beauc.

The success of my project, your beauty and this charming night, give such a delicious movement to my spirits, as I never felt before.

DUET. ZAYDE and BEAUCLERC.

Beau.

How sweet the lover's meeting proves

When night and silence bold their reign;

When no soft warbler wakes the groves,

And modest Phoebe gilds the scene!

Zayde.

Each word like musick, sweet distills

Its silver magic on the ear;

Each word the heart with transport fills,

For night conceals the virgin's fear.

Duetto, How sweet, &c.

Exeunt.

SCENE IV. A Room in Major Bromfield's House. The Stage dark—Ben Hassan discovered.

Ben.

What a terrible condition has my rashness reduced me to! and because I was a state prisoner, I must come here blind-solded. Here I am in a dungeon! Lord knows how many feet deep in the rock of Gibraltar! How could they find me out? sure that damned Jew has not betrayed me! It is very strange I was not put in irons; and, what's more extraordinary in a dismal place like this, they have left me a chair to sit on. I fain would examine the walls of my prison to try if there is any hole left; but what if I tumble into some terrible cavern! I'll [Page] grope my way as well as I can.

(Gets up, and in groping about overturns a table with china)

—Mercy on me, what a clash of chains was there! I wish I could get to my chair again, I'd not budge from it 'till my keeper brought me my bread and water. Oh, I have got it.

(Sits down)

Enter Muley.

Muley.

Where is my dear master? O that I could glad my eyes with a sight of him!

Ben.

Oh! that I could glad my eyes with a sight of you, Muley! how long, poor fellow, have you been here?

Muley.

I am just come, sir; as it was known that I was an old faithful servant, the Governor has granted me permission to take my leave of you.

Ben.

What, am I so soon to die!

Muley.

I can't bear to answer you, sir,

(affects crying.)

Ben.

Ah, my poor Muley! and I suppose your fate is not far off ?

Muley.

No, sir, I was pardoned; the laws of England could not punish me without a new act of parliament.

Ben.

Eh! how was that?

Muley.

Why, sir, the laws of England say no man is a slave; I was one, and consequently out of their jurisdiction.

Ben.

Then, my good lad, I'll till you how you can serve me.

[Page]Muley.

I'll do it most chearfully.

Ben.

Why as you can't be punished, suppose we change clothes, and let me escape? my clothes are worth a great deal more than your's.

Muley.

That would never do, sir; your imprisonment has set me free, and I am now as liable to be hanged as any body else.

Ben.

That's a great pity, Muley.

Muley.

Ah, sir, you had a number of friends upon your trial.

Ben.

My trial! why zounds I have not been tried yet.

Muley.

Consider you are a spy, and a spy is never tried like another criminal—the Governor was for breaking you upon the wheel immediately. Ah! thinks I, this will remind my poor master of the broken bones he has often given me.

Ben.

And was there nobody spoke for me?

Muley.

Oh yes, sir; you had a staunch friend, a friend indeed, sir, one who obtained a great favour for you, a favour seldom granted to state criminals—that you should only—

Ben.

What! what! what!

Muley.

Be hanged, sir.

Ben.

Only be hang'd! and do you call that a favour, you dog?

Muley.

I don't know what you think, sir; but, I am sure, your family will be greatly rejoiced at it. But, sir, as you are now in your last moments, what am I to say to your daughter?

Ben.

O my poor child! she never came into my head.

[Page]Muley.

I suppose, sir, you'll leave her every thing?

Ben.

Every pistole; I can take nothing with me. Remember her poor old father's love to her.

Muley.

Your love! there's something else should be remember'd; I suppose you would not have your strong box broke open, sir?

Ben.

Break open my strong box, you rascal! who dare break open my strong box?

Muley.

See what it is to love money! It goes to your heart to part with a pistreen, though it can be of no longer use to you.

Ben.

True, Muley, I can take nothing with me.

Muley.

'Sdeath, sir, you'd make a man mad; the executioner will be here in a few minutes, and if you don't give me the key, and let me know what it contains, your daughter will be wrong'd of half her proparty.

Ben.

Why will you disturb me in my dying moments? you know the key will be found in my pocket when I am hanged.

Muley.

In that case, every shilling will be consiscated for the use of government.

Ben.

That's very true, and as I can take nothing with me, here it is—

(gives him the key)

—give it into her own hand; the box contains eighteen thousand pistoles, besides three brilliants of immense value, and a topal I purchased at Genoa, that was stole from the Doge of Venice.

Muley.

Ah, sir, you see no good comes of such things; but I have secured your key; and so come in, come in, all is settled.

[Page] Enter Major Bromfield, Beauclerc, Zayde and Jenny. (Stage light.)

Ben.

What, my daughter and Beauclerc to see me?

Muley.

(Gives Zayde the key.)

Here, madam, is the passport to your fortune, and your father may rail as fast as he pleases.

Ben.

(looking round with astonishment)

Why I am in no dungeon, I find.

Muley.

I'll tell you better news, sir; you've got a reprieve.

Ben.

Ah, villain, I perceive how every thing is now; this is all a trick to cheat me of my daughter; but though I am a Moor, and you call me Infidel, your laws breathe a more humane spirit than your religion, and I will have recourse to them.

M. Brom.

Ben Hassan, you may thank the hour your daughter married this gentleman; it has saved your life. I am at this moment in possession of secrets would undo you; then take them home without a a murmur; act in future with integrity to the state, and all shall be overlooked.

Ben.

(aside.)

All my correspondence with the Spaniards I find is discovered, and I must make the best of it. (To the Major.) Dear Major, you are too hasty; I protest to you I never was better pleased, never in my life; but consider I have just escaped a gibbet, and you must allow a little for surprize.

Enter a Soldier.

Sold.

Sir, the Governor desires a party of men may be sent instantly to keep the populace in order [Page] there's a mutiny in the garrison about the fresh provisions just arrived.

M. Brom.

My dear Beauclerc, we must be gone; but trust your mistress to her father's care; I dare say we may depend upon him. Eh, Ben Hassan, you understand me?

Ben.

Perfectly! yes, yes, we are all come to a right understanding at last,—but mum—and so come along, Zayde:

(sighs) and exit Ben Hassan, &c. &c.

SCENE V. The Inside of the Garrison. A tumultuous Noise heard.

Enter a Crowd of People.

1st Mob.

We will have fresh provisions.

2d Mob.

Why not as well as the governor?

3d Mob.

Finer turkies never came from Barbary.

4th Mob.

Finer turkies! ay, ay, my friend, but that is leather of too fine a grain for our palates. Turkies! no, no; we must feast upon salted pork and buffaloes, as dry and as tough as an old heel-tap; a man should have teeth like an awl to mumble it.

5th Mob.

Nine tailors of us clubb'd for a goose, and could not purchase it.

1st Mob.

Let us all go to the governor's in a body, and force him to do us and our families justice.

All.

Ay, come along, come along.

going off, they are met by Serjeant O'Bradley and Trumbull.

Trum.

Where the de'el are ye aw ganging in sic haste?

[Page]1st Mob.

We are going to the governor's, to demand our share of the fresh provisions just come from Barbary; we can hold out no longer.

Trum.

Ye are aw a parcel of feuls, and do no ken what you wauld be at.

1st Mob.

Ay, master Serjeant, you may talk; you have no cause to complain of salt provisions; you have always a belly-full.

Trum.

It's a damn'd see; I scorn to think of my wem, when the honour of my country is at stake.

1st Mob.

But why does not the governor divide all fair with the whole garrison?

2d Mob.

We are all flesh and blood as well as he.

3d Mob.

Hav'n't we wives and children to maintain?

Trum.

Why, ye mek sic a damn'd clatter, there's nae sic a thing as spearly a wee wi' you rationally; will you hear me?

All.

Hear him, hear him.

Trum.

In aw them ten years the famous toon of Troy was besieged, I do nae believe there was sic a riot as the present.

1st Mob.

Ay, master Serjeant, but Troy, I suppose, is some town upon the 'Mericant continent, like Rhode-Island, or the Gulph of Florida, or some of those places.

Trum.

Ah, friend, as the proverb gangs, whoever burns you for a witch, will lose all his coals. Ye are nac geographer, friend, I find.

1st Mob.

Come, master Serjeant, don't call names; I am as good a man as yourself, though I don't wear a red coat.

The drum beats to arms with great violence.

[Page]Trum.

He! what the de'el's that for?

O' Brad.

O, by my shoul, it is what I told you a little while ago, though I did not mention it; the peppering bout is just going to begin; and if you are so hungry, you may stay your stomachs with a bellyfull of fighting.

Enter a Soldier.

Sold.

Serjeants, for shame! away to arms; the Spanish flag is flying in the harbour.

1st Mob.

What, are the Spaniards come! then, dam'me, we'll think no more of fresh provisions.

2d Mob.

We'll fight, if you'll give us arms.

3d Mob.

Ay, dam'me, 'till we die.

O' Brad.

Why, there you spoke like a true Englishman! we'll all fight 'till we die; and then there will be fresh provisions enough for every one of us.

Exit all, huzzaing, &c.

SCENE the last. A View of the Rock and Streight of Gibraltar; Rodney's Fleet in the Bay, after the Action; the Spanish Admiral dismasted, &c. riding with national Colours; the Army all drawn out with Artillery, &c. prepared for Action; a Boat is seen to come from one of the Ships; a Lieutenant and several Sailors come on Shore afterwards.

M. Brom.

A Spanish admiral's flag flying, and all the rest English colours; what can be the meaning?

[Page]1st Off.

It was done to deceive the garrison; it is an enemy; and, take my word, the governor will repent his not firing at them.

M. Brom.

We shall soon know that, for here comes the boat dispatched to us.

(the boat now comes up; the sailors cheer the garrison, and land.)

Sailor.

What cheer! what cheer, my hearts of oak?

M. Brom.

(To the Lieutenant.)

How am I to receive you—as a prisoner, sir?

Lieut.

A prisoner! what do you mean?

M. Brom.

Is not that the Spanish fleet yonder under English colours?

Sailor.

The Spanish fleet! ay, to be sure it is.

M. Brom.

I understand you; we lost the day.

Sailor.

Why yes, we lost the day to be sure; but then we took 'em in the night for all that.

M. Brom.

Took 'em in the night! you deal in mysteries.

Sailor.

Ay, master, and the Spaniards deal in miracles; so we are even with them.

M. Brom.

(To the Lieutenant.)

As a soldier and an Englishman, you may suppose me anxious for the honour of my country; answer me, sir, at once, if we are victors, why does that Spanish ensign insult the flag of my country?

Sail.

Why, if I may speak, your honour, before my superiors, it's a kind of dulgence we shewed them; for the Spanish Monsieurs fought damn'd well this bout; and then you know a man has some pleasure in beating 'em.

[Page]Lieut.

What this honest tar has told you, sir, is true; the fleet you see yonder belongs to the King of England, and perhaps no fleet, for some centuries, have won greater glory.

M. Brom.

What is our advantage, sir?

Sailor.

Vantage! why we have taken five, sunk two, and blown up one; that's all. It's a great pity there were not a few more to give a good account of.

M. Brom.

I request, sir, you would go instantly with your dispatches to the Governor: this is a piece of intelligence which once more dispels the gloom from Gibraltar. Let the whole garrison salute the fleet, for the strength and bulwark of England at all times has proved her navy.

O' Brad.

By my shoul, your honour, if I may speak without offence, the devil a word of lie in what you say; for the firmest ground an Englishman ever stood upon is the ocean.

SONG, CHORUS, &c. FINALE.

Major BROMFIELD.

Led by glory, Britons ever

Shall their well-earn'd laurels keep;

Bourbon's gordian still they'll sever,

And reign rulers of the deep,

[Page]LIEUTENANT.

At dead of night, and fire all round us,

St. Domingo blew in air;

Then first we found the Spaniards wound us;

Ev'ry Briton dropt a tear.

BEAUCLERC.

When wise Eliza rais'd our glory,

Howard gain'd immortal fame;—

The subject now of modern story

Is great RODNEY's envied name.

Zayde.

A name unboasted yet remains,

England's young, but future pride;

WILLIAM's a name which fate ordains

To spread his country's glory wide.

THE END.

Information about this book

Title statement

The siege of Gibraltar: a musical farce: in two acts. As it is performed at the Theatre-Royal, in Covent-Garden. By F. Pilon.

Pilon, Frederick, 1750-1788.

Publication

Publisher

University of Michigan Library

Place of publication

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Date

2009 October

ID [DLPS]

004796928

ID [ESTC]

T2459

ID [DOCNO]

CW113787958

ID [TCP]

K021519.000

ID [GALEDOCNO]

CW3313787958

ID [CONTENTSET]

ECLL

ID [IMAGESETID]

0666400400

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Source

— The siege of Gibraltar: a musical farce: in two acts. As it is performed at the Theatre-Royal, in Covent-Garden. By F. Pilon., Pilon, Frederick, 1750-1788..

Extent

[4],42p ; 8⁰.

printed for G. Kearsly,. London :: 1780.. (Reproduction of original from the British Library.) (English Short Title Catalog, ESTCT2459.) (Electronic data. Farmington Hills, Mich. : Thomson Gale, 2003. Page image (PNG). Digitized image of the microfilm version produced in Woodbridge, CT by Research Publications, 1982-2002 (later known as Primary Source Microfilm, an imprint of the Gale Group).)

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Created by converting TCP files to TEI P5 using tcp2tei.xsl, TEI @ Oxford.

Editorial practices

EEBO-TCP is a partnership between the Universities of Michigan and Oxford and the publisher ProQuest to create accurately transcribed and encoded texts based on the image sets published by ProQuest via their Early English Books Online (EEBO) database (http://eebo.chadwyck.com). The general aim of EEBO-TCP is to encode one copy (usually the first edition) of every monographic English-language title published between 1473 and 1700 available in EEBO.

EEBO-TCP aimed to produce large quantities of textual data within the usual project restraints of time and funding, and therefore chose to create diplomatic transcriptions (as opposed to critical editions) with light-touch, mainly structural encoding based on the Text Encoding Initiative (http://www.tei-c.org).

The EEBO-TCP project was divided into two phases. The 25,363 texts created during Phase 1 of the project have been released into the public domain as of 1 January 2015. Anyone can now take and use these texts for their own purposes, but we respectfully request that due credit and attribution is given to their original source.

Users should be aware of the process of creating the TCP texts, and therefore of any assumptions that can be made about the data.

Text selection was based on the New Cambridge Bibliography of English Literature (NCBEL). If an author (or for an anonymous work, the title) appears in NCBEL, then their works are eligible for inclusion. Selection was intended to range over a wide variety of subject areas, to reflect the true nature of the print record of the period. In general, first editions of a works in English were prioritized, although there are a number of works in other languages, notably Latin and Welsh, included and sometimes a second or later edition of a work was chosen if there was a compelling reason to do so.

Image sets were sent to external keying companies for transcription and basic encoding. Quality assurance was then carried out by editorial teams in Oxford and Michigan. 5% (or 5 pages, whichever is the greater) of each text was proofread for accuracy and those which did not meet QA standards were returned to the keyers to be redone. After proofreading, the encoding was enhanced and/or corrected and characters marked as illegible were corrected where possible up to a limit of 100 instances per text. Any remaining illegibles were encoded as <gap>s. Understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of TCP data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. Users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a TCP editor.

The texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the TEI in Libraries guidelines.

Copies of the texts have been issued variously as SGML (TCP schema; ASCII text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable XML (TCP schema; characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless XML (TEI P5, characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or TEI g elements).

Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site.