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[page 1]THE ROVER: OR, The Banish’t Cavaliers.ACT the First.Scene the First. A Chamber.Enter Florinda and Hellena.Flor.What an Impertinent thing is a Young Girl bred in a Nunnery? How full of Questions? Prithee no more Hellena, I have told thee more than thou understand’st already.
Hell.The more’s my grief, I wou’d fain know as much as you, which makes me so Inquisitive; nor is’t enough I know you’r a Lover, unless you tell me too, who ’tis you sigh for.Flor.When you’r a Lover, I’le think you fit for a Secret of that Nature.Hell.’Tis true, I never was a Lover yet—but I begin to have a shrew’d guess, what ’tis to be so, and fancy it very pretty to sigh, and sing, and blush, and wish, and dream and wish, and long and wish to see the Man; and when I do look pale and tremble; just as you did when my Brother brought home the fine English Colonel to see you—what do you call him Don Belvill.Flor.FyeHellena.Hell.That blush betrays you.—I am sure ’tis so—or is it Don Antoniothe Vice-Roy’s Son?—or perhaps the Rich Old Don Vincentio whom my Father designs you for a Husband?- why do you blush again?[page 2]Flor.With Indignation, and how near soever my Father thinks I am to Marrying that hated Object, I shall let him see, I understand better, what’s due to my Beauty, Birth and Fortune, and more to my Soul, then to obey those unjust Commands.Hell.Now hang me, if I don’t love thee for that dear disobedience. I love mischief strangely, as most of our Sex do, who are come to Love nothing else—but tell me dear Florinda, don’t you love that fine Anglese?—for I vow next to loving him my self, ’twill please me most that you do so, for he is so gay and so handsome.Flor.Hellena, a Maid design’d for a Nun, ought not to be so Curious in a discourse of Love.Hell.And dost thou think that ever I’le be a Nun? or at least till I’m so Old, I’m fit for nothing else—Faith no Sister; andthat which makes me long to know whether you love Belvile, is because I hope he has some mad Companion or other, that will spoil my devotion, nay I’m resolv’d to provide my self this Carnival, if there be ere a handsome proper fellow of my humour above ground, tho I ask first.Flor.Prithee be not so wild.Hell.Now you have provided your self of a Man, you take no care for poor me—prithee tell me, what dost thou see about me that is unfit for Love—have I not a World of Youth? a humour gay? a Beauty passable? a Vigour desirable? well Shap’t? clean limb’d? sweet breath’d? and sense enough to know how all these ought to be employ’d to the best advantage; yes I do and will, therefore lay aside your hopes of my Fortune by my being a Devote, and tell me how you came acquainted with this Belvile? for I perceive you knew him before he came to Naples.Flor.Yes, I knew him at the Siege of Pampulona, he was then a Colonel of FrenchHorse, who when the Town was Ransack’t, Nobly treated my Brother and my self, preserving us from all Insolences; and I must own, (besides great Obligations) I have I know not what, that pleads kindly for him about my Heart, and will suffer no other to enter.—But see my Brother.Enter Don Pedro Stephano with a Masquing habitand Callis.Pedro.Good morrow Sister.—Pray when saw you your Lover Don Vincentio?Flor.I know not Sir—Callis when was he here? for Iconsider it so little, I know not when it was.[page 3]Pedro.I have a Command from my Father here to tell you, you ought not to despise him, a Man of so vast a Fortune, and such a Passion for you—Stephano my things.[Puts on his Masquing habit.Flor.A Passion for me, ’tis more than e’re I saw, or he had a desire should be known—I hate Vincentio, Sir, and I wou’d not have a Man so dear to me as my Brother, follow the ill Customes of our Countrey, and make a slave of his Sister—and Sir, my Father’s will, I’m sure you may divert.Pedro.I know not how dear I am to you, but I wish only to be ranckt in your esteem, equal with the English Coll. Belvile— why do you frown and blush? is there any guilt belongs to the Name of that Cavalier.Flor.I’le not deny I value Belvile, when I was expos’d to such dangers as the Licenc’d Lust of common Souldiers threatned, when Rage and Conquest flew through the City—then Belvile this Criminal for my sake, through himself into all dangers to save my Honour and will you not allow him my esteem?Pedro.Yes, pay him what you will in Honour—but you must consider Don Vincentio’s Fortune, and the Joynture he’l make you.Flor.Let him consider my Youth, Beauty and Fortune; which ought not to be thrown away on his Age and Joynture.Pedro.’Tis true, he’s not so young and fine a Gentleman, as that Belvile,—but what Jewels will that Cavalier present you with? those of his Eyes and Heart?Hell.And are not those better than any Don Vincentio has brought from the Indies.Pedro.Why how now! has your Nunnery breeding taught you to understand the value of Hearts and Eyes?Hell.Better than to believe Vincentio‘s deserve value from any Woman—he may perhaps encrease her Baggs,, but not her Family.Pedro.This is fine—go—up to your Devotion, you are not design’d for the conversation of Lovers.Hell.Nor Saints, yet a while I hope [Aside. I’st not enough you make a Nun of me, but you must cast my Sister away too? exposing her to a worse confinement than a Religious life.Pedro.The Girl’s mad—it is a confinement to be carry’d into the Countrey, to an Antient Villa belonging to the Family of [page 4] the Vincentio’s these five hundred Years, and have no other Prospect than that pleasing one of seeing all her own that meets her Eyes—a fine Ayr, large Fields and Gardens, where she may walk and gather Flowers.Hell.When by Moon Light? For I am sure she dares not encounter with the heat of the Sun, that were a task only for Don Vincentio and his Indian breeding, who loves it in the Dog dayes.—and if these be her daily divertisements, what are those of the Night, to lye in a wide Moth—eaten Bed Chamber, with furniture in Fashion in the Reign of King Sancho the First; The Bed, that which his Fore—fathers liv’d and dy’d in.Pedro.Very well.Hell.This Appartment (new furbrusht and fitted out for the young Wife) he (out of freedom) makes his dressing Room, and being a Frugal and a Jealous Coxcomb, instead of a Valet to uncase his feeble Carcass, he desires you to do that Office—signs of favour I’ll assure you, and such as you must not hope for, unless your Woman be out of the way.Pedro.Have you done yet?Hell.That Honour being past, the Gyant stretches it self; yawns and sighs a Belch or two, loud as a Musket, throws himself into Bed, and expects you in his foul sheets, and e’re you can get your self undrest, call’s you with a snore or Two—and are not these fine Blessings to a young Lady?Pedro.Have you done yet?Hell.And this Man you must kiss, nay you must kiss none but him too—and nuzel through his Beard to find his Lips.—And this you must submit to for Threescore years, and all for a Joynture.Pedro.For all your Character of Don Vincentio, she is as like to Marry him, as she was before.Hell.Marry Don Vincentio! hang me such a Wedlock would be worse than Adultery with another Man. I had rather see her in the Hostel de Dieu,to wast her Youth there in Vowes, and be a hand-Maid to Lazers and Cripples, than to lose it in such a Marriage.Pedro.You have consider’d Sister, that Belvile has no Fortune to bring you to, banisht his Countrey, despis’d at home, and pitty’d abroad.Hel.What then? the Vice-Roy’s Son is better than that Old Sir Fisty. Don Vincentio! Don Indian! he thinks he’s trading to [page 5]Gambo still, and wou’d Barter himself (that Bell and Bawble) for your Youth and Fortune.Pedro.Callis take her hence, and lock her up all this Carnival, and at Lent she shall begin her everlasting Pennance in a Monastery.Hell.I care not, I had rather be a Nun, than be oblig’d to Marry as you wou’d have me, if I were design’d for’t.Pedro.Do not fear the blessing of that choice—you shall be a Nun.Hell.Shall I so? you may chance to be mistaken in my way of devotion:—a Nun! yes I am like to make a fine Nun! I have an excellent humour for a Grate: no, I’le have a Saint of my own to pray to shortly, if I like any that dares venture on me.[Aside.Pedro.Callis, make it your business to watch this Wild Cat. As for you Florinda, I’ve only try’d you all this while and urg’d my Fathers will; but mine is, that you wou’d love Antonio, he is Brave and young, and all that can compleat the happiness of a Gallant Maid—this absence of my Father will give us opportunity, to free you from Vincentio, by Marrying here, which you must do to Morrow.Flor.To Morrow!Pedro.To Morrow, or ’twill be too late—tis not my Friendship to Antonio, which makes me urge this, but Love to thee, and hatred to Vincentio—therefore resolve upon to Morrow.Flor.Sir, I shall strive to do, as shall become your Sister.Pedro.I’le both believe and trust you—AdieuEx. Ped. and Steph.Hell.As becomes his Sister!—that is to be as resolv’d your way, as he is his—[Hell. goes to CallisFlor.

Hell.But heark you Callis, you will not be so cruel to lock me up indeed, will you.Call.I must obey the Commands I have—besides, do you consider what a life you are going to lead?Hell.Yes, Callis, that of a Nun: and till then I’ll be indebted [page 6] a world of Prayers to you, if you’ll let me now see, what I never did, the Divertisements of a Carnival.Call.What, go in Masquerade? ’twill be a fine farewel to the World I take it—pray what wou’d you do there?Hell.That which all the World does, as I am told, be as mad as the rest, and take all Innocent freedomes—Sister you’ll go too, will you not? come prithee be not sad.—We’ll out—wit Twenty Brothers, if you’ll be rul’d by me—come put off this dull humour with your Cloths, and Assume one as gay, and as fantastick, as the Dress my Couzen Valeria, and I have provided, and let’s Ramble.Flor.Callis, will you give us leave to go?Call.I have a Youthful itch of going my self. [Aside. —Madam, if I thought your Brother might not know it, and I might wait on you; for by my troth I’ll not trust Young Girles alone.Flor.Thou see’st my Brother’s gone already, and thou shalt attend, and watch us.Enter Stephano.Steph.Mad? the Habits are come, and your CouzenValeria is drest, and stayes for you.Flor.’Tis well.—I’ll write a Note, and if I chance to see Belvile, and want an opportunity to speak to him, that shall let him know, what I’ve resolv’d in favour of him.Hell.Come, let’s in and dress us.[Exeunt.SCENE II. A Long Street.Enter Belvile Melancholy, Blunt and Frederick.Fred.Whe what the Devil ails the Coll. In a time when all the World is gay, to look like meer Lent thus? Had’st thou been long enough in Naples to have been in Love, I shou’d have sworn some such Judgment had befall’n thee.Belv.No, I have made no new Amours since I came to Naples?Fred.You have left none behind you in Paris?Belv.Neither.[page 7]Fred.I cannot divine the Cause then, unless the Old Cause, the want of Money.Blunt.And another Old Cause, the want of a Wench— Wou’d not that revive you?Blev.You are mistaken, Ned.Blunt.Nay, ‘Sheartlikins, then thou’rt past Cure.Fred.I have found it out; thou hast renew’d thy acquaintance with the Lady that cost thee so many sighs at the Siege of Pampulona— Pox on’t, what d’e you call her—her Brother’s a Noble Spaniard—Nephew to the Dead General—Florinda— Ay Florinda—and will nothing serve thy turn but that damn’d virtuous Woman? whom on my Conscience thou lovest in spight too, because thou seest little or no possibility of gaining her.Belv.Thou art mistaken, I have Int’rest enough in that lovely Virgins heart, to make me proud and vain, were it not abated by the severity of a Brother, who perceiving my happiness—Fred.Has civily forbid thee the House?Belv.’Tis so, to make way for a Pow’rful Rival, the Vice-Roy’s Son, who has the advantage of me, in being a Man of Fortune, a Spaniard, and her Brother’s Friend, which gives him Liberty to make his Court, whilst I have recourse only to Letters, and distant looks from her Window, which are as soft and kindAs those which Heav’n sends down on Penitents.Blunt.Heyday! ‘Sheartlikins, simile! by this Light the Man is quite spoild.—Fred.What the Devil are we made of, that we cannot be thus concern’d for a Wench—’Sheartlikins our Cupids are like the Cooks of the Camp, they can Roast or Boil a Woman, but they have none of the fine tricks to set ’em off, no Hogoes to make the Sawce pleasant and the Stomach sharp.Fred.I dare swear I have had a hundred as young kind and handsom as this Florinda; and Dogs eat me, if they were not as troublesom to me i’th Morning, as they were welcome o’re Night.Blunt.And yet I warrant, he wou’d not touch another Woman, if he might have her for nothing.Belv.That’s thy joy, a cheap Whore.Blunt.Whe I ‘Sheartlikins I love a Franck Soul—when did you ever hear of an honest Woman that took a Man’s Money? I warrant [page 8] ’em good ones—but Gentlemen, You may be free, you have been kept so poor with Parliaments and Protectors, that the little Stock you have is not worth preserving—but I thank my Stars, I had more Grace than to forfeit my Estate by Cavaliering.Belv.Methinks only following the Court, shou’d be sufficient to entitle ’em to that.Blunt.’Sheartlikins, they know I follow it to do it no good, unless they pick a hole in my Coat for lending you Money now and then, which is a greater Crime to my Conscience, Gentlemen, than to the Common-Wealth.Enter Willmore.Will.Ha! dear Belvile! noble Colonel!Belv.Willmore! welcom ashore, my dear Rover!—what happy wind blew us this good Fortune?Will.Let me salute my dear Fred. and then Command me.— How is’t honest Lad?Fred.Faith, Sir, the Old Complement, infinitely the better to see my dear mad Willmore again.—Prithee why camest thou ashore? and where’s the Prince?Will.He’s well, and Reigns still Lord of the watry Element. —I must abord again within a day or two, and my business ashore was only to enjoy my self a little this Carnival.Belv.Pray know our new Friend, Sir, he’s but bashful, a raw Traveller, but honest, stout, and one of us.[Embraces BluntWill.That you esteem him, gives him an Intr’est here.Blunt.Your Servant, Sir.Will.But well,—Faith I’m glad to meet you again in a warm Climate, where the kind Sun has its God-like Pow’r still over the Wine and Women—Love and Mirth! are my bus’ness in Naples, and if I mistake not the place, here’s an Excellent Market for Chapmen of my humour.Belv.See, here be those kind Merchants of Love you look for.Enter several Men in Masquing Habits, some playing on Musique, others dancing after, Women drest like Courtizans, with Papers pinn’d on their Breasts, and Baskets of Flowers in their Hands.Blunt.’Sheartlikins, what have we here?[page 9]Fred.Now the game begins.Will.Fine pretty creatures! May a stranger have leave to look and love?—What’s here—Roses for every moneth?[Reads the Papers.Blunt.Roses for every moneth? What means that?Belv.They are, or wou’d have you think they’re courtizans, who here in Naples, are to be hir’d by the moneth.Will.Kind, and obliging to inform us—Pray where do these roses grow? I wou’d fain plant some of ’em in a bed of mine.Wom.Beware such roses, Sir.Will.A pox of fear: I’ll be bak’t with thee between a pair of sheets, and that’s they proper still; so I might but strew such roses over me, and under me—fair one, wou’d you wou’d give me leave to gather at your bush this idle moneth; I wou’d go near to make some body smell of it all the year after.Belv.And thou hast need of such a remedy, for thou stink’st of tar and ropes ends, like a dock or pest-house.[The Woman puts herself into the Hands of a Man, and Exits.Will.Nay, nay, you shall not leave me so.Belv.By all means use no violence here.Will.Death! Just as I was going to be damnably in love, to have her led off! I could pluck that rose out of his hand, and even kiss the bed, the bush grew in.Fred.No friend to love, like a long voyage at sea.Blunt.Except a nunnery, Fred.Will.Death! But will they not be kind? Quickly be kind? Thou know’st I’m no tame sigher, but a rampant lion of the forrest.Advances from the farther end of the Scenes, two Men drest all over with horns of several sorts, making grimaces at one another, with papers pinn’d on their backs.Belv.Oh the fantastical rogues, how they’r drest! ‘Tis a satyre against the whole sex.Will.’Is this a fruit that grows in this warm countrey?Belv.Yes: ‘Tis pretty to see these Italians start, swell and stab, at the word cuckold; and yet stumble at horns on every threshold.Will.See what’s on their back—Flowers of every Night.[Reads. —Ah Rogue! and more sweet than roses of ev’ry moneth! This is a gardiner of Adam‘s own breeding.[They dance.[page 10]Belv.What think you of those grave People?—is a wake in Essex half so mad or extravagant?Will.I like their sober grave way, ’tis a kind of legal authoriz’d fornication, where the men are not chid for’t, nor the women despis’d, as amongst our dull English, even the monsieurs want that part of good manners.Belv.But here in Italy, a monsieur is the humblest best bred gentleman—duels are so bafled by Bravo‘s, that an age shews not one but between a French-man, and a hang-man, who is as much too hard for him on the Piaza, as they are for a Dutchman on the New Bridge—but see another crew.Enter Florinda, Hellena and Valeria, drest like Gipsies; Callis and Stephano, Lucetta, Philipo and Sancho in Masquerade.Hell.Sister, there’s your English Man, and with him a handsome proper fellow—I’le to him, and instead of telling him his Fortune, try my own.Will.Gipsies on my life—sure these will prattle if a man crosse their hands. [Goes to Hellena. —dear, pretty, (and I hope) young Devil, will you tell an amorous stranger, what luck he’s like to have?Hell.Have a care how you venture with me Sir, least I pick your pocket, which will more vex your English humour, than an Italian fortune will please you.Will.How the Devil cam’st thou to know my countrey and humour?Hell.The first I guess by a certain forward impudence, which does not displease me at this time, and the loss of your money will vex you, because I hope you have but very little to lose.Will.Egad child thou’rt ith’ right, it is so little, I dare not offer it thee for a kindness—but cannot you divine what other things of more value I have about me, that I wou’d more willingly part with.Hell.Indeed no, that’s the bus’ness of a witch, and I am but a gipsie yet.—Yet without looking in your hand, I have a parlous guess, ’tis some foolish heart you mean, an inconstant English heart, as little worth stealing as your purse.Will.Nay, then thou dost deal with the Devil, that’s certain.— thou hast guest as right, as if thou had’st been one of that number it has languisht for.—I find you’l be better acquainted with it, nor can you take it in a better time; for I am come from sea, child, and Venus not being propitious to me in her own element: I have a world of love in store—wou’d you wou’d be good natur’d and take some on’t off my hands.Hell.Whe—I cou’d be inclin’d that way—but for a foolish vow I am going to make—to dye a maid.Will.Then thou art damn’d without redemption, and as I am a good Christian, I ought in charity to divert so wicked a design —therefore prithee dear creature let me know quickly when, and where I shall begin to set a helping hand to so good a work.Hell.If you shou’d prevail with my tender heart (as I begin to fear you will, for you have horrible loving eyes) there will be difficulty in’t, that you’l hardly undergo for my sake.Will.Faith child I have been bred in dangers, and wear a sword, that has been employ’d in a worse cause, than for a handsome kind woman—name the danger—let it be any thing but a long siege—and I’le undertake it.Hell.Can you storm?Will.Oh most furiously.Hell.What think you of a Nunnery Wall? For he that wins me, must gain that first.Will.A nun! Oh how I love thee for’t! There’s no sinner like a young Saint—nay now there’s no denying me, the Old Law had no curse (to a woman) like dying a maid; witness Ieptha’sdaughter.Hell.A very good text this, if well handled, and I perceive Father Captain, you wou’d impose no severe penance on her who were inclin’d to console her self, before she took orders.Will.If she be young and handsome.Hell.Ay there’s it—but if she be not—Will.By this hand, child, I have an implicit faith, and dare venture on thee with all faults—besides, ’tis more meritorious to leave the world, when thou hast tasted and prov’d the pleasure on’t. Then ’twill be a virtue in thee, which now will be pure ignorance.Hell.I perceive good Father Captain, you design only to make me fit for Heaven—but if on the contrary, you shou’d quite divert me from it, and bring me back to the world again, I shou’d have a new man to seek I find; and what a grief that will be—for when I begin, I fancy I shall love like any thing, I never try’d yet.Will.Egad and that’s kind—prithee dear creature, give me credit for a heart, for faith I’m a very honest fellow—Oh, I long to come first to the Banquet of Love! And such a swinging appetite I bring—Oh I’m impatient.—thy lodging sweetheart, thy lodging! or I’m a dead man!Hell.Why must we be either guilty of fornication or murder if we converse with you men—and is there no difference between leave to love me, and leave to lie with me?Will.Faith child they were made to go together.Lucett.Are you sure this is the man?[Pointing to Blunt.Sancho.When did I mistake your game?Lucett.This is a stranger, I know by his gazing; if he be brisk, he’l venture to follow me; and then if I understand my trade, he’s mine, he’s English too; and they say that’s a sort of good natur’d loving people, and have generally so kind an opinion of themselves, that a woman with any wit may flatter e’m into any sort of fool she pleases.Blunt.’Tis so—she is taken— I have Beauties which my false Glass at home did not discover.She often passes by Blunt, and gazes on him, he struts and Cocks, and walks and gazes on her.Flor.This Woman watches me so, I shall get no opportunity to discover my self to him, and so miss the intent of my coming —but as I was saying, Sir,—by this Line you shou’d be a Lover.[Looking in his hand.Belv.I thought how right you guessed, all men are in Love, or pretend to be so—come let me go, I’m weary of this fooling.[Walks away.Flor.I will not, till you have confest whether the passion that you have vow’d Florinda, be true or false?She holds him, he strives to get from her.Belv.Florinda![Turns quick towards her.Flor.Softly.Belv.Thou hast nam’d one will fix me here for ever.Flor.She’ll be disappointed then, who expects you this night at the Garden-gate, and if you fail not—as let me see the other hand—you will go near to do—she vows to dye or make you happy.[Looks on Callis who observes ’em.[page 13]Belv.What canst thou mean?Flor.That which I say—Farewel.[Offers to go.Belv.Oh charming Sybil stay, complete that joy which as it is will turn into destraction!—where must I be? at the Garden-gate? I know it—at Night you say?—I’ll sooner forfeit Heav’n than disobey.Enter Don Pedro and other Masquers, and pass over the Stage.Call.Madam, your Brother’s here.Flor.Take this to instruct you farther.[Gives him a Letter, and goes off.Fred.Have a care, Sir, what you promise; this may be a Trap laid by her Brother to ruine you.Belv.Do not disturb my happiness with doubts.[Opens the Letter.Will.My dear pretty Creature, a Thousand Blessings on thee! still in this habit you say?—and after Dinner at this place.Hell.Yes, if you will swear to keep your heart, and not bestow it between this and that.Will.By all the little Gods of Love I swear, I’l leave it with you, and if you run away with it, those Deities of Justice will revenge me.[Ex. all the Women.Fred.Do you know the hand?Belv.

Fred.Nay, no Idolatry, a sober Sacrifice I’l allow you.Belv.Oh Friends, the welcom’st News! the softest Letter!— nay—you shall all see it! and cou’d you now be serious, I might be made the happiest Man the Sun shines on!Will.The reason of this mighty joy?Belv.See how kindly she invites me to deliver her from the threatned violence of her Brother—will you not assist me?Will.I know not what thou mean’st, but I’ll make one at any mischief where a Woman’s concerned—but she’l be grateful to us for the favour, will she not?Belv.How mean you?Will.How shou’d I mean? thou know’st there’s but one way for a Woman to oblige me.Belv.Do not prophane—the Maid is nicely virtuous.[page 14]Will.Who Pox, then she’s fit for nothing but a husband, let her e’n go, Colonel.Fred.Peace, she’s the Colonel’s Mistris, Sir.Will.Let her be the Devil, if she be thy Mistris, I’l serve her— name the way.Belv.Read here this Postscript.[Gives him a Letter.Will.[Reads.] —Kind Heart, if we Three cannot weave a string to let her down a Garden-Wall, ’twere pity but the Hang-man wove one for us all.At Ten at night—at the Garden-Gate—of which, if I cannot get the Key, I will contrive a way over the Wall—come attended with a Friend or Two.Fred.Let her alone for that, your Womans wit! your fair kind Woman! will out-trick a Broker or a Jew: and contrive like a Jesuit in Chains—but see, Ned Blunt is stolen out after the Lure of a Damsel.[Ex. Blunt and Lucetta.Belv.So, he’ll scarce find his way home again, unless we get him cry’d by the Bell-man in the Market-place, and ‘twou’d sound prettily—a lost English Boy of Thirty.Fred.I hope ’tis some Common crafty Sinner, one that will fit him; it may be she’ll sell him for Perue, the Rogue’s sturdy, and wou’d work well in a Mine; at least I hope she’ll dress him for our Mirth, cheat him of all, then have him well-favourd’ly bang’d, and turn’d out Naked at Midnight.Will.Prithee what humour is he of, that you wish him so well?Belv.Why of an English Elder Brother’s humour, Educated in a Nursery, with a Maid to tend him till Fifteen, and lyes with his Grand-Mother till he’s of Age: one that knowes no pleasure beyond riding to the next Fair, or going up to London with his right Worshipful Father in Parliament-time; wearing gay Cloths, or making honourable Love to his Lady Mothers Landry-Maid: gets drunk at a Hunting-Match, and ten to one then gives some proofs of his Prowess.—A Pox upon him, he’s our Banker, and has all our Cash about him, and if he fail, we are all Broke.Fred.Oh let him alone for that matter, he’s of a damn’d stingey quality, that will secure our stock; I know not in what danger it were indeed if the Jilt shou’d pretend she’s in Love with him, for ’tis a kind believing Coxcomb; otherwise if he part with more than a piece of Eight—-gueld him: for which offer he may chance to be beaten, if she be a Whore of the First Rank.[page ]Belv.Nay the Rogue will not be easily beaten, he’s stout enough; perhaps if they talk beyond his capacity, he may chance to exercise his Courage upon some of them, else I’m sure they’ll find it as difficult to beat as to please him.Will.’Tis a luckey Devil to light upon so kind a Wench!Fred.Thou had’st a great deal of talk with thy little Gipsie, coud’st thou do no good upon her? for mine was hard-hearted.Will.Hang her, she was some damn’d honest Person of Quality I’m sure, she was so very free and witty. If her face be but answerable to her Witt, and humour, I wou’d be bound to Constancy this Moneth to gain her—in the mean time, have you made no kind acquaintance since you came to Town?—you do not use to be honest so long, Gentlemen.Fred.Faith Love has kept us honest, we have been all fir’d with a Beauty newly come to Town, the Famous Paduana Angellica Bianca.Will.What the Mistris of the dead Spanish General?Belv.Yes, she’s now the only ador’d Beauty of all the Youth in Naples, who put on all their Charms to appear lovely in her sight, their Coaches, Liveries, and themselves, all gay, as on a Monarch’s Birth-Day, to attract the Eyes of this fair Charmer, while she has the pleasure to behold all languish for her that see her.Fred.’Tis pretty to see with how much Love the Men regard her, and how much Envy the Women.Will.What Gallant has she?Belv.None, she’s expos’d to Sail, and Four days in the Week she’s yours—for so much a Month.Will.The very thought of it quenches all manner of Fire in me—yet prithee let’s see her.Belv.Let’s first to Dinner, and after that wee’l pass the day as you please—but at Night yee must all be at my Devotion.Will.I will not fail you.The End of the First Act.[page 16]ACT II.Scene I. The Long Street.Enter Belvile and Frederick in Masquing Habits, and Willmore in his own Cloaths, with a Vizard in his Hand.Will.But why thus disguis’d and muzzel’d?Belv.Because whatever Extravagances we commit in these Faces, our own may not be oblig’d to answer ’em.Will.I shou’d have chang’d my Eternal Buffe too; but no matter, my little Gipsie wou’d not have found me out then; for if she shou’d change hers, it is impossible I should know her, unless I should hear her prattle.—A Pox on’t, I cannot get her out of my Head: Pray Heaven, if ever I do see her again, she prove damnably ugly, that I may fortifie my self against her Tongue.Belv.Have a care of Love, for o’ my conscience she was not of a quality to give thee any hopes.Will.Pox on ’em, why do they draw a Man in then? She has play’d with my Heart so, that ’twill never lye still, till I have met with some kind Wench, that will play the Game out with me— Oh for my Arms full of soft, white, kind—Woman! such as I fancy Angelica.Belv.This is her House, if you were but in stock to get admittance; they have not din’d yet; I perceive the Picture is not out.Enter Blunt.Will.I long to see the Shadow of the fair Substance; a Man may gaze on that for nothing.Blunt.Coll. Thy Hand—and thineFred.I have been an Ass, a deluded Fool, a very Coxcomb from my Birth till this hour, and heartily repent my little Faith.Belv.

Fred.

Will.Ha! where.Fred.Ay where!So fond, so amorous, so toying and so fine! and all for sheer Love ye Rogue! Oh how she lookt and kist! and sooth’d my [page 17] Heart from my Bosom—I cannot think I was awake, and yet methinks I see and feel her charms still—Fred.—Try if she have not left the taste of her Balmey Kisses upon my Lips—[Kisses him.BelvHa! Ha! Ha!Will.Death Man where is she?—What a Dog was I to stay in dull England so long,—How have I laught at the Coll. When he sigh’d for Love! but now the little Archer has reveng’d him! and by this one Dart, I can guess at all his joys, which then I took for Fancies, meer Dreams and Fables.—Well, I’m resolv’d to sell all in Essex, and plant here for ever.Belv.What a Blessing ’tis, thou hast a Mistris thou dar’st boast of; for I know thy Humour is, rather to have a proclaim’d Clap, than a secret Amour.Will.Dost know her Name?Bluns.Her Name? No, ‘sheartlikins what care I for Names. —She’s fair! young! brisk and kind! even to ravishment! and what a Pox care I for knowing her by any other Title.Will.Didst give her any thing?Blunt.Give her!—Ha, ha, ha! whe she’s a Person of Quality; —that’s a good one, give her! ‘sheartlikins dost think such Creatures are to be bought? Or are we provided for such a Purchase? give her quoth ye? Why she presented me with this Bracelet, for the Toy of a Diamond I us’d to wear: No, Gentlemen, Ned Blunt is not every Body—She expects me again to Night.Will.Egad that’s well; we’ll all go.Blunt.Not a Soul: No, Gentlemen, you are Wits; I am a dull Countrey Rogue, I.Fred.Well, Sir, for all your Person of Quality, I shall be very glad to understand your Purse be secure; ’tis our whole Estate at present, which we are loth to hazard in one Bottom; come, Sir, unlade.Blunt.Take the necessary Trifle useless now to me, that am belov’d by such a Gentlewoman—’sheartlikins Money! Here take mine too.Fred.No, keep that to be couzen’d, that we may laugh.Will.Couzen’d!—Death! wou’d I cou’d meet with one, that wou’d couzen me of all the Love I cou’d spare to Night.Fred.Pox, ’tis some common Whore upon my life.[page 18]Blunt.A Whore!—yes with such Cloths! such Jewels! such a House! such Furniture, and so Attended! a Whore!Belv.Why yes Sir, they are Whores, tho’ they’ll neither entertain you with Drinking, Swearing, or Bawdry; are Whores in all those gay Cloths, and right Jewels, are Whores with those great Houses richly furnisht with Velvet Beds, Store of Plate, handsome Attendance, and fine Coaches, are Whores and Errant ones.Will.Pox on’t, where do these fine Whores live?Belv.Where no Rogues in Office Ecliped Constables, dare give ’em Laws, nor the Wine Inspir’d Bullies of the Town, break their Windows; yet they are Whores tho this Essex Calf believe ’em Persons of Quality.Blunt.’Sheartlikins, y’are all Fools, there are things about this Essex Calf, that shall take with the Ladies, beyond all your Witt and Parts—this Shape and Size Gentlemen are not to be despis’d— my Waste too tolerably long, with other inviting signs, that shall be nameless.Will.Egad I believe he may have met with some Person of Quality that may be kind to him.Belv.Dost thou perceive any such tempting things about him, that shou’d make a fine Woman, and of Quality, pick him out from all Mankind, to throw away her Youth and Beauty upon, nay and her dear heart too!—no, no, Angellica has rais’d the Price too high.Will.May she languish for Mankind till she dye, and be damn’d for that one sin alone.Enter Two Bravo’s, and hang up a great Picture of Angellica’s, against the Balcone, and Two little ones at each side of the Door.Belv.See there the fair Sign to the Inn where a Man may Lodg that’s Fool enough to give her price.[Will. gazes on the Picture.Blunt.’Sheartlikins, Gentlemen, what’s this!Belv.A Famous Courtizan, that’s to be sold.Blunt.How? to be sold! nay then I have nothing to say to her—sold! what Impudence is practic’d in this Countrey? —with what Order and decency Whoring’s Establisht here by Virtue of the Inquisition—come let’s begone, I’m sure wee’re no Chapmen for this Commodity.Fred.Thou art none I’m sure, unless thou coud’st have her in thy Bed at a price of a Coach in the Street.[page 19]Will.How wondrous fair she is—a Thousand Crowns a Month—by Heaven as many Kingdoms were too little, a plague of this Poverty—of which I ne’re complain, but when it hinders my approach to Beauty: which Virtue ne’re cou’d purchase.[Turns from the Picture.Blunt.What’s this?— [Reads.]A Thousand Crowns a Month!—’Sheartlikins here’s a Sum! sure ’tis a mistake.—Heark you Friend, does she take or give so much by the Month?Fred.A Thousand Crowns! why ’tis a Portion for the Infanta.Blunt.Heark ye Friends, won’t she trust?Brav.This is a Trade, Sir, that cannot live by Credit.Enter Don Pedro in Masquerade, follow’d by Stephano.Belv.See, here’s more Company, let’s walk off a while.[Ex. English.[Pedro Reads.Enter Angellica and Moretta in the Balcone, and draw a Silk Curtain.Ped.Fetch me a thousand Crowns, I never wisht to buy this Beauty at an easier rate.[passes off.Ang.Prithee what said those Fellows to thee?Brav.Madam, the first were admirers of Beauty only, but no purchasers, they were merry with your Price and Picture, laught at the Sum, and so past off.Ang.No Matter, I’m not displeas’d with their rallying; their wonder feeds my vanity, and he that wishes but to buy, gives me more Pride, than he that gives my Price, can make my pleasure.Brav.Madam, the last I knew through all his disguises to be Don Pedro, Nephew to the General, and who was with him in Pampalona.Ang.Don Pedro! my old Gallant’s Nephew, when his Uncle dy’d he left him a vast Sum of Money; it is he who was so in love with me at Padua, and who us’d to make the General so Jealous.Morett.Is this he that us’d to prance before our Window, and take such care to shew himself an Amorous Ass? If I am not mistaken he is the likeliest Man to give your price.[page 20]Ang.The Man is brave and generous, but of an humour so uneasie and inconstant, that the victory over his heart is as soon lost as won, a Slave that can add little to the Triumph of the Conquerour, but Inconstancy’s the sin of all Mankind, therefore I’m resolv’d that nothing but Gold, shall charm my heart.Moret.I’m glad on’t; ’tis only Interest that Women of our profession ought to consider: tho’ I wonder what has kept you from that general Disease of our Sex so long, I mean that of being in Love.Ang.A kind, but sullen Star under which I had the happiness to be born; yet I have had no time for Love; the bravest and noblest of Mankind have purchast my favours at so dear a rate, as if no Coin but Gold were currant with our Trade— but here’s Don Pedro again, fetch me my Lute—for ’tis for him or Don Antonio the Vice-Roys Son, that I have spread my Nets.Enter at one Door Don Pedro, Stephano; Don Antonio and Diego at the other Door with People following him in Masquerade, antickly attir’d, some with Musick, they both go up to the Picture.Ant.A Thousand Crowns! had not the Painter flatter’d her, I shou’d not think it dear.Pedro.Flatter’d her! by Heav’n he cannot, I have seen the Original, nor is there one Charm here more than Adorns her Face and Eyes; all this soft and sweet, with a certain languishing Air, that no Artist can represent.Ant.What I heard of her Beauty before had fir’d my Soul, but this confirmation of it has blown it to a flame.Pedro.Ha!Page.Sir, I have known you throw away a Thousand Crowns on a worse face, and tho y’are near your Marriage, you may venture a little Love here▪Florinda will not miss it.Pedro.Ha! Florinda!—sure ’tis Antonio.[aside.Ant.Florinda! name not those distant joyes, there’s not one thought of her will check my Passion here.Pedro.Florinda scorn’d! and all my [A noise of a Lute above. hopes defeated, of the Possession of Angelica.[Ant. gazes up. Her Injuries! by Heaven he shall not boast of.[Song to a Lute above.Ant.By Heav’n she’s charming fair!Angellica throws open the Curtains, and bows to Antonio, who pulls off his Vizard and bows and blows up kisses. Pedro unseen looks in’s face.Pedro.’Tis he; the false Antonio!Ant.

[To the Bravo.

Pedro.

Ant.

Pedro.

Ant.I know not who thou art, but I am sure thou’rt worth my killing, for aiming at Angelica.[They draw and fight.[page 22]Enter Willmore and Blunt, who draw and part ’em.Blunt.’Sheartlikins, here’s fine doings.Will.Tilting for the Wench I’m sure—nay gad, if that wou’d win her, I have as good a Sword as the best of ye.—Put up,— put up, and take another time and place, for this is design’d for Lovers only.[They all put up.Pedro.

Ant.

Pedro.We will come thus disguised, that whosoever chance to get the better, he may escape unkown.Ant.It shall be so. [Ex. Pedro and Stephano. Who shou’d this Rival be? unless the English Colonel, of whom I’ve often heard Don Pedro speak; it must be he, and time he were remov’d, who lays a claim to all my happiness.Willmore having gaz’d all this while on the Picture, pulls down a little one.Will.

Brav.What means this rudeness, Sir?—restore the Picture.Ant.

Will.Indeed I will not, Sir.Ant.By Heav’n but you shall.Will.Nay, do not shew your Sword, if you do, by this dear Beauty—I will shew mine too.Ant.What right can you pretend to’t?Will.That of Possession which I will maintain—you perhaps have a 1000 Crowns to give for the Original.Ant.No matter, Sir, you shall restore the Picture.Ang.Oh Moretta! what’s the matter?[Ang. and Morett. above.[page 23]Ant.Or leave your life behind,Will.Death! you lye—I will do neither.Ang.Hold, I command you, if for me you Fight.They Fight, the Spaniards joyn with Ant. Blunt laying on like mad. They leave off and bow.Will.How Heavenly fair she is!—ah Plague of her price.Ang.You Sir in Buffe, you that appear a Souldier, that first began this Insolence—Will.’Tis true, I did so, if you call it Insolence for a Man to preserve himself; I saw your Charming Picture and was wounded; quite through my Soul each pointed Beauty ran; and wanting a Thousand Crowns to procure my remedy—I laid this little Picture to my Bosom—which if you cannot allow me, I’ll resign.Ang.No you may keep the Trifle.Ant.You shall first ask me leave, and this.[Fight again as before.Enter Belv. and Fred. who joyn with the English.Ang.Hold! will you ruine me!—Beskey—Sebestian— part’em.—[The Spaniards are beaten off.Morett.Oh Madam, we’re undone, a pox upon that rude Fellow, low, he’s set on to ruine us: we shall never see good days, till all these fighting poor Rogues are sent to the Gallies.Enter Belvile, Blunt Fred. and Wilmour with’s shirt bloody.Blunt.’Sheartlikins, beat me at this sport, and I’le ne’re wear Sword more.Belv.The Devil’s in thee for a mad Fellow, thou art always one, at an unluckey Adventure—come let’s begon whil’st wee’re safe, and remember these are Spaniards, a sort of People that know how to revenge an Affront.[To will.Fred.You bleed! I hope you are not wounded.Will.Not much:—a plague on your Dons, if they fight no better they’l ne’re recover Flanders.—what the Devil was’t to them that I took down the Picture?Blunt.Took it! ‘Sheartlikins we’ll have the great one too; ’tis ours by Conquest.—prithee help me up and I’ll pull it down—[page 24]Ang.Stay Sir, and e’re you Affront me farther, let me know how you durst commit this out-rage—to you I speak Sir, for you appear a Gentleman.Will.To me, Madam—Gentlemen your Servant.Belv. stays him.Belv.Is the Devil in thee? do’st know the danger of entring the house of an incens’d Courtizan?Will.I thank you for your care—but there are other matters in hand, there are, tho we have no great Temptation—Death! let me go.Fred.Yes to your Lodging if you will, but not in here.—Damn these Gay Harlots—by this hand I’ll have as sound and handsome a Whore, for a Patacoone,—death Man, she’ll Murder thee.Will.Oh! fear me not, shall I not venture where a Beauty calls? a lovely Charming Beauty! for fear of danger! when by Heav’n there’s none so great, as to long for her, whil’st I want Moto purchase her.Pedro.Therefore ’tis loss of time unless you had the Thousand Crowns to pay.Will.It may be she may give a Favour, at least I shall have the pleasure of Saluting her when I enter, and when I depart.Belv.Pox, she’ll as soon lye with thee, as kiss thee, and sooner stab than do either—you shall not go.Ang.Fear not Sir, all I have to wound with is my Eyes.Blunt.Let him go, ‘Sheartlikins, I believe the Gentlewoman means well.Belv.Well take thy Fortune, we’ll expect you in the next Street—farewell Fool—Farewell—Will.’Buy Colonel—[Goes in.Fred.The Rogue’s stark mad for a Wench.[Exeunt.SCENE. A fine Chamber.Enter Willmore, Angelica and Moretta.Ang.Insolent Sir, how durst you pull down my Picture?Will.Rather, how durst you set it up, to tempt poor Am’rous▪ Mortals with so much excellence? which I find you have but too well consulted by the unmerciful price you set upon’t.— [page 25] Is all this Heaven of Beauty shewn to move despair in those that cannot buy? and can you think th’ effects of that despair, shou’d be less extravagant than I have shewn?Ang.I sent for you to ask my Pardon Sir, not to Aggravate your Crime—I thought I shou’d have seen you at my Feet imploring it.Will.You are deceiv’d, I came to rail at you, and rail such truths too, as shall let you see, the vanity of that Pride, which taught you how, to set such Price on Sin. For such it is, whil’st that which is Loves due. is meanly barter’d for.Ang.Ha! ha! ha! alas good Captain, what pitty ’tis your edifying Doctrine will do no good upon me—Moretta! fetch the Gentleman a Glass, and let him surveigh himself. To see what Charms he has—and guess my business.[Aside, in a soft tone.Morett.He knows himself of Old, I believe those Breeches and he have been acquainted ever since he was beaten at Worcester.Ang.Nay do not abuse the poor Creature—Morett.Good Weather beaten Corporal, will you march off? we have no need of your Doctrine, tho’ you have of our Charity, but at present we have no scraps, we can afford no kindness for God’s sake; in fine Sirrah, the price is too high ‘ith Mouth for you, therefore Troop I say.Will.Here good Fore-Woman of the Shop serve me, and I’ll be gone.Morett.Keep it to pay your Landress, your Linnen stinks of the Gun Room; for here’s no selling by Retail.Will.Thou hast sold plenty of thy Stale. Ware at a Cheap rate.Morett.Ay the more Silly kind Heart I, but this is an Age wherein Beauty is at higher rates—In fine you know the price of this.Will.Igrant you ’tis here—set down a Thousand Crowns a Month—pray how much may come to my Share for a Pistol. —Bawd take your black Lead and Sum it up, that I may have a Pistols worth of this vain gay things, and I’ll trouble you no more.Morett.Pox on him he’ll fret me to death:—abominable Fellow, I tell thee, wee only sell by the whole piece.Will.’Tis very hard, the whole Cargo or nothing—Faith [page 26] Madam, my Stock will not reach it, I cannot be your Chapman —Yet I have Country Men in Town, Merchants of Love like me; I’ll see if they’ll put in for a share, we cannot lose much by it, and what we have no use for, we’ll sell upon the Frydays Mart at—Who gives more? I am studying Madam how to purchase you, tho’ at present I am unprovided of Money.Ang.Sure this from any other Man would anger me—nor shall he know the Conquest he has made—poor angry Man, how I despise this railing.Will.

[Holds her, looks on her, and pawses and sighs.

Turns her away from him.Ang.

[Aside.

Will.

Monet.Sure she’s bewitch, that she can stand thus tamely and hear his sawcy railing—Sirrah, will you be gon?Ang.How dare you take this Liberty?—withdraw. [To Mor. —Pray tell me, Sir, are not you guilty of the same Mercenary Crime,When a Lady is propos’d to you for a Wife, you never ask, how fair—discreet—or virtuous she is; but what’s her Fortune— which if but small, you cry—she will not do my business— and basely leave her, thou she languish for you—say, is not this as poor?Will.It is Barbarous Custome, which I will scorn to defend in our Sex, and do despise in yours.Ang.

Will.I cannot tell, I must bethink me first—ha—death I’m going to believe her.[Aside.Ang.Prithee confirm that faith—or if thou canst not— flatter me a little, ’twill please me from thy mouth.Will.

[Aside.

[Turning from her in Rage.Ang.

Will.What can she mean?[Aside.Ang.

[In an angry tone.Will.

Ang.

[She turns: with pride he holds her.Will.

Ang.

Will.

[Aside.

Ang.

Will.

[Kneels and kisses her hand.Ang.

Will.Intirely—come, let’s withdraw! where I’ll renew my Vows—and breath ’em with such Ardour thou shalt not doubt my zeal.[page 29]Ang.Thou hast a Pow’r too strong to be resisted.[Ex. Will. and Angellica.Moret.Now my Curse go with you—is all our Project fallen to this? to love the only Enemy to our Trade? nay, to love such a Shameroone, a very Beggar, nay a Pyrate Beggar, whose business is to rifle, and be gone, a no Purchase, no Pay Taterdemalion, and EnglishPiccaroon.A Rogue that fights for daily drink, and takes a Pride in being Loyally Lousie—Oh I cou’d curse now, if I durst.—This is the Fate of most Whores.

The End of the Second ACT.ACT III.Scene I. A Street.Enter Florinda, Valeria, Hellena, in Antickdifferent Dresses, from what they were in before–antick has a specific sense too. Callis attending.Flor.I Wonder what shou’d make my Brother in so ill a humour? I hope he has not found out our Ramble this Morning.Hell.No, if he had, we shou’d have heard on’t at both Ears, and have been Mew’dup this Afternoon; which I wou’d not for the World shou’d have hapned—hey ho, I’m as sad as a Lover’s Lute.—Vall▪Well, methinks we have learnt this Trade of Gipsies as readily, as if we had been bred upon the Road to Loretta: and yet I did so fumble, when I told the stranger his Fortune, that I was [page 30] afraid I should have told my own and yours by mistake—but, methinks Hellena has been very serious ever since.Flor.I wou’d give my Garters she were in Love, to be reveng’d upon her, for abusing me—how is’t, Hellena?Hell.Ah—wou’d I had never seen my mad Monsieur—and yet for all your laughing, I am not in Love—and yet this small acquaintance o’ my Conscience will never out of my head.Val.Ha, ha, ha—I laugh to think how thou art fitted with a Lover, a fellow that I warrant loves every new Face he sees.Hell.Hum—he has not kept his word with me here—and may be taken up—that thought is not very pleasant to me— what the Deuce shou’d this be now, that I feel?Val.What is’t like?Hell.Nay, the Lord knows—but if I shou’d be hang’d, I cannot choose, but be angry and afraid, when I think, that mad Fellow shou’d be in Love with any Body but me—what to think of my self, I know not—wou’d I cou’d meet with some true damn’d Gipsie, that I might know my Fortune.Val.Know it! why there’s nothing so easie, thou wilt love this wandring Inconstant, till thou findst thy self hang’d about his Neck, and then be as mad to get free again.Flor.Yes, Valeria, we shall see her bestride his Baggage Horse, and follow him to the Campaigne.Hell.So, so, now you are provided for, there’s no care taken of poor me—but since you have set my heart a wishing—I am resolv’d to know for what, I will not dye of the Pip, so I will not.Flor.Art thou mad to talk so? who will like thee well enough to have thee, that, hears what a mad Wench thou art?Hell.Like me! I don’t intend every he that likes me shall have me, but he that I like; I shou’d have staid in the Nunnery still, if I had lik’d my Lady Abbesse as well as she lik’d me—no, I came thence not (as my wise Brother imagines) to take an Eternal Farewel of the World, but to Love, and to be belov’d, and I will be belov’d, or I’ll get one of your Men, so I will.Val.Am I put into the number of Lovers?Hell.You? why Couz, I know thou’rt too good natur’d to leave us in any design: thou wou’t venture a Cast, tho thou comest off a loser, especially with such a Gamester.—I observe your Man, and your willing Ear incline that way; and if you are not [page 31] a Lover, ’tis an Art soon learnt—that I find.[Sighs.Flor.I wonder how you learnt to Love so easily, I had a 1000 Charms to meet my Eyes and Ears, e’re I cou’d yield, and ’twas the knowedge of Belvile‘s merit, not the surprizing Person took my Soul—thou art too rash to give a heart at first sight.Hell.Hang your considering Lover; I never thought beyond the fancy that ’twas a very pretty, idle, silly, kind of pleasure to pass ones time with, to write little soft. Nonsensical Billiets, and with great difficulty and danger receive Answers; in which I shall have my Beauty prais’d, my Wit admir’d, (tho little or none) and have the vanity and pow’r to know I am desirable; then I have the more inclination that way, because I am to be a Nun, and so shall not be suspected to have any such Earthly thoughts about me—but when I walk thus—and sigh thus— they’l think my mind’s upon my Monastery, and cry how happy ’tis she’s so resolv’d.—But not word of Man.Flor.What a mad Creature’s this?Hell.I’ll warrant, if my Brother hears either of you sigh, he cryes (gravely)—I fear you have the indiscretion to be in Love, but take heed of the Honour of our House, and your own unspotted Fame, and so he Conjures on till he has laid the soft wing’d God in your Hearts, or broke the Birds Nest—but see here comes your Lover, but where’s my Inconstant? let’s step aside, and wee may learn something.[Go aside.Enter Belvile Fred. and Blunt.Belv.What means this! the Picture’s taken in.Blunt.It may be the Wench is good Natur’d, and will be kind Gratis. Your Friend’s a proper handsome Fellow.Belv.I rather think she has cut his Throat and is fled: I am mad he shou’d throw himself into dangers—pox on’t I shall want him too at Night—let’s knock and ask for him.Hell.My Heart goes a pit, a pat, for fear ’tis my Man they talk off.[Knock, Moretta above.Morett.What wou’d you have!Bel.Tell the stranger that enter’d here about two hours agoe, that his Friends stay here for him.Morett.A Curse upon him for Moretta, wou’d he were at the Devil—but he’s coming to you.[page 32]Hell.I, I, ’tis he! Oh how this vexes me.Bel.And how and how dear Lad, has Fortune smil’d! are we to break her Windows! or raise up Alters to her. hah!Will.Does not my Fortune sit Triumphant on my Brow! dost not see the little wanton God there all gay and smiling. Have I not an Air about my Face and Eyes, that distinguish me from the Crow’d of common Lovers! By Heav’n Cupids Quiver has not half so many Darts as her Eyes!—Oh such a Bona Roba! to sleep in her Arms is lying in Fresco, all perfum’d Air about me.Hell.Here’s fine encouragement for me to fool on.[Aside.Will.Hark’ey where didst thou purchase that rich Canary we drank to day! tell me that I may Adore the Spigot, and Sacrifice to the Butt! the Juice was Divine! into which I must dip my Rosary, and then bless all things that I would have bold or Fortunate.Belv.Well Sir, let’s go take a Bottle, and hear the story of your Success.Fred.Wou’d not French Wine do better.Will.Damn the hungry Balderdash, chearful Sack has a generous Virtue in’t inspiring a successful confidence, gives Eloquence to the Tongne! and vigour to the Soul! and has in a few hours compleated all my hopes and wishes! There’s nothing left to raise a new desire in me—come let’s be gay and wanton—and Gentlemen study, study what you want, for here are Friends,—that will supply Gentlemen,—heark! what a Charming sound they make—’tis he and the Gold whil’st here, and shall beget new pleasures every Moment.Blunt.But heark’ey Sir, you are not Marryed are you?Will.All the honey of Matrimony, but none of the sting Friend.Blunt.’Sheartlikins thou’rt a Fortunate Rogue!Will.I am so Sir, let these—inform you!—ha how sweetly they Chime!—pox of Poverty it makes a Man a slave, makes Wit and Honour sneak, my Soul grew lean and rusty for want of credit.Blunt.’Sheartlikins this I like well, it looks like my lucky Bargain! Oh how I long for the approach of my Squire, that is to conduct me to her House again whe—here’s two provided for.Fred.By this light y’ are happy Men.Blunt.Fortune is pleas’d to smile on us Gentlemen—to smile on us.[page 33] Enter Sancho and pulls down Blunt by the sleeve.Sancho.Sir my Lady expects [They go aside. you—she has remov’d all that might oppose your will and pleasure—and is impatient till you come.Blunt.Sir I’ll attend you—oh the happiest Rogue! I’ll take no leave, least they either dog me, or stay me.[Ex. with Sancho.Belv.But then the little Gipsie is forgot?Will.A mischief on thee for putting her into my thoughts I had quite forgot her else, and this Nights debauch had drunk her quite down.Hell.Had it so good Captain![Claps him on the Back.Will.Hah! I hope she did not hear me.[Aside.Hell.What afraid of such a Champion?Will.Oh! you’re a fine Lady of your word, are you not? to make a Man languish a whole day—▪Hell.In tedious search of me.Will.Egad Child thou’rt in the right, had’st thou seen what a Melancholy Dog I have been ever since I was a Lover, how I have walkt the streets like a Capuchin with my Hands in my Sleeves—Faith sweet Heart thou would’st pitty me.Hell.Now if I shou’d be hang’d I can’t be angry with him he dissembles so Heartily—alas good Captain what pains you have taken—now were I ungrateful not to reward so true a Servant.Will.Poor Soul! that’s kindly said, I see thou barest a Conscience —come then for a beginning shew me thy dear Face.Hell.I’m afraid, my small acquaintance, you have been staying that swinging Stomach you boasted of this Morning; I then remember my little Collation wou’d have gone down with you, without the Sauce of a handsome Face—is your Stomach so queasiy now?Will.Faith long fasting Child, spoils a Mans Appetite—yet if you durst treat, I cou’d so lay about me still—Hell.And wou’d you fall to, before a Priest says Grace?Will.Oh 〈◊〉, what an Old out of fashion’d thing hast thou nam’d? thou cou’st not dash me more out of Countenance shoud’st thou shew me an ugly Face.[Whilst he is seemingly Courting Hellena.[page 34]Enter Angellica Moretta Biskey and Sebastian all in Masquerade, Ang. sees Will. and stares.Ang.Heavens ‘ts he! and passionately fond to see another Woman.Morett.What cou’d you less expect from such a swaggerer?Ang.

Hell.You see Captain, how willing I am to be Friends with you, till time and ill luck make us Lovers, and ask you the Question first, rather then put your Modesty to the blush, by asking me (for alas!) I know you Captains are such strict Men and such severe observers of your Vows to Chastity, that ’twill be hard to prevail with your tender Conscience to Marry a young willing Maid.Will.Do not abuse me, for fear I shou’d take thee at thy word, and Marry thee indeed, which I’m sure will be revenge sufficient.Hell.O’ my Conscience, that will be our Destiny, because we are both of one humour; I am as inconstant as you, for I have consider’d, Captain, that a handsome Woman has a great deal to do whilst her Face is good, for then is our Harvest-time to gather Friends; and should I in these dayes of my Youth, catch a fit of foolish Constancy, I were undone; ’tis loitering by day-light in our great Journey: therefore I declare, I’ll allow but one year for Love, one year for indifference, and one year for hate— and then—go hang your self—for I profess my self the gay, the kind, and the Inconstant—the Devil’s in’t if this won’t please you.Will.Oh most damnably—I have a heart with a hole quite through it too, no Prison mine to keep a Mistress in.Ang.Perjur’d Man! how I believe thee now.[aside.Hell.Well, I see our business as well as humours are a like, yours to couzen as many Maids as will trust you, and I as many Men as have Faith—see if I have not as desperate a lying look, as you can have for the heart of you.[Pulls off her Vizard: he starts.—How do you like it Captain?[page 35]Will.Like it! by Heav’n, I never saw so much beauty! Oh the Charms of those sprightly black Eyes! that strangely fair Face! full of smiles and dimples! those soft round melting Cherry Lips! and small even white Teeth! not to be exprest, but silently ador’d!—oh one look more! and strike me dumb, or I shall repeat nothing else till I’m mad.[He seems to Court her to pull off her Vizar: she refuses.Ang.I can endure no more—nor is it fit to interrupt him, for if I do, my Jealousie has so destroid my Reason,—I shall undo him —therefore I’l retire—and you, Sebastian,[To one of her Bravo‘s. follow that Woman, and learn who ’tis; while you tell the Fugitive, I wou’d speak to him instantly.[To the other Bravo.[Exit.This while Flor. is talking to Belvile, who stands sullenly. Fred. courting Valeria.Val.Prithee, dear stranger, be not so sullen, for tho you have lost your Love, you see my Friend franckly offers you hers to play with in the mean time.Belv.Faith Madam, I am sorry I can’t play at her Game.Fred.Pray leave your Intercession, and mind your own Affair, they’l better agree apart; he’s a modest sigher in Company, but alone no Woman scapes him.Flor.Sure he does but rally—yet if it shou’d be true— I’ll tempt him farther—believe me, Noble Stranger, I’m no common Mistris—and for a little proof on’t—wear this Jewel—nay, take it, Sir, ’tis right, and Bills of Exchange may sometimes miscarry.Belv.Madam, why am I chose out of all Mankind to be the Object of your Bounty?Val.There’s another civil Question askt.Fr.Pox of’s Modesty, it spoils his own Markets & hinders mine.Flor.Sir, from my Window I have often seen you, and Women of my Quality have so few opportunities for Love, that we ought to loose none.Fred.Ay, this is something! here’s a Woman!—when shall I be blest with so much kindness from your fair Mouth?—take the Jewel, Fool.[aside to Belv.Belv.You tempt me strangely Madam every way—Flor.So, if I find him false, my whole Repose[Aside.Belv.And but for a Vow I’ve made to a very Lady, this goodness had subdu’d me.[page 36]Fred.Pox on’t be kind, in pitty to me be kind, for I am to thrive here but as you treat her Friend.Hell.Tell me what you did in yonder House, and I’ll unmasque.Will.Yonder House—oh—I went to—a—to—why there’s a Friend of mine lives there.Hell.What a Shee, or a Hee Friend?Will.A Man upon Honour! a Man—a Shee Friend—no, no Madam you have done my business I thank you.Hell.And wast your Man Friend, that had more Darts in’s Eyes, than Cupid carries in’s whole Budget of Arrowes.Will.So—Hell.Ah such a Bona Roba! to be in her Arms is lying in Fresco, all perfum’d Air about me—was this your Man Friend too?Will.So—Hell.That gave you the He, and the She Gold, that begets young pleasures?Will.Well, well Madam, then you see there are Ladies in the World, that will not be cruel—there are Madam there are—Hell.And there be Men too, as fine, wild Inconstant Fellowes as your self, there be Captain there be, if you go to that now— therefore I’m resolv’d—Will.Oh!—Hell.To see your Face no more—Will.Oh!Hell.Till to morrow.Will.Egad you frighted me.Hell.Nor then neither, unless you’ll swear never to see that Lady more.Will.See her!—whe never to think of Woman kind again.Hell.Kneel,—and swear—[Kneels, she gives him her hand.Will.I do never to think—to see—to Love—nor Lye— with any but thy self.Hell.Kiss the Book.Will.Oh most Religiously.[Kisses her hand.Hell.Now what a wicked Creature am I, to damn a proper Fellow.Call.Madam, I’ll stay no longer, ’tis e’ne dark.[To Flor.Flor.How ever Sir, I’ll leave this with you—that when [page 37] I’m gone, you may repent the opportunity you have lost, by your Modesty.Gives him the Jewel which is her Picture, and Ex. he gazes after her.Will.’Twill be an Age till to Morrow,—and till then I will most impatiently expect you—Adieu my Dear pretty Angell.[Ex. all the Women.Belv.Ha! Florinda’s Picture—’twas she her self—what a dull Dog was I? I wou’d have given the World for one minuts discourse with her—Fred.This comes of your modesty!—ah pox o’ your vow, ’twas ten to one, but we had lost the Jewel by’t.Belv.Willmore! the blessed’st opportunity lost! Florinda! Friends! Florinda!Will.Ah Rogue! such black Eyes! such a Face! such a Mouth! such Teeth—and so much Witt!—Belv.All, all, and a Thousand Charmes besides.Will.Why dost thou know her?Belv.Know her! Ay, Ay, and a pox take me with all my Heart for being Modest.Will.But hearkey Friend of mine, are you my Rival? and have I been only beating the Bush all this while?Belv.I understand thee not—I’m mad—see here—[Shews the Picture.Will.Ha! whose Picture’s this!—’tis a fine Wench!Fred.The Colonels Mrs. Sir.Will.Oh oh here—I thought ‘thad been another prize— come, come, a Bottle will set thee right again.[Gives the Picture back.Belv.I am content to try, and by that time ’twill be late enough for our design.Will.Agreed.

Exeunt.SCENE the II. Lucetta’s House.Enter Blunt and Lucetta with a Light.Luc.Now we are safe and free; no fears of the coming home of my Old Jealous Husband, which made me a little thoughtful [page 38] when you came in first—but now Love is all the business of my Soul.Blunt.I am transported!—pox on’t, that I had but some fine things to say to her, such as Lovers use,—I was a Fool not to learn of Fred. a little by heart before I came—something I must say— [Aside. ‘Sheartlikins sweet Soul! I am not us’d to Complement, but I’m an honest Gentleman, and thy humble Servant.Luc.I have nothing to pay for so great a Favour, but such a Love as cannot but be great, since at first sight of that sweet Face and Shape, it made me your absolute Captive.Blunt.Kind heart! how prettily she talks! Egad I’ll shew her Husband a Spanish trick; send him out of the World and Marry her: she’s damnably in Love with me, and will ne’re mind Settlements, and so there’s that sav’d.[Aside.Luc.Well Sir, I’ll go and undress me, and be with you instantly.Blunt.Make hast then, for adshartilikins dear Soul thou canst not guess at the pain of a longing Lover; when his joys are drawn within the compass of a few Minuts.Luc.You speak my sense, and I’l make hast to prove it.[Ex.Blunt.’Tis a rare Girl! and this one Nights enjoyment with her, will be worth all the days I ever past in Essex.—wou’d she wou’d go with me into England; tho’ to say truth there’s plenty of Whores already.—But a Pox on ’em they are such Mercenary —Prodigal Whores, that they want such a one as this, that’s Free and Generous to give ’em good Examples—Whe what a house she has, how rich and fine!Sancho.Sir, my Lady has sent me to conduct you to her Chamber.[Enter Sancho.Blunt.Sir, I shall be proud to follow—here’s one of her Servants too! ‘Sheartlikins by this garb and gravity, he might be a Justice of Peace in Essex, and is but a Pimp here.[Exeunt.The Scene Changes to a Chamber with an Alcove Bed in’t, a Table, &c. Lucetta in Bed. Enter Sancho and Blunt, who takes the Candle of Sancho at the Door.Sancho.Sir, my Commission reaches no farther.Blunt.Sir I’ll excuse your Complement—what in Bed my sweet Mistress.[page 39]Luc.You see, I still outdo you in kindness.Blunt.And thou shalt see what haste I’ll make to quit scores —oh the luckiest Rogue![He undresses himself.Luc.Shou’d you be false or cruel now!—Blunt.False! ‘Sheartlikins, what dost thou take me for? A Jew? an insensible heathen—a Pox of thy Old Jealous Husband, an he were dead, Egad, sweet Soul, it shou’d be none of my fault, if I did not Marry thee.Luc.It never shou’d be mine.Blunt.Good Soul! I’m the fortunatest Dog!Luc.Are you not undrest yet?Blunt.As much as my impatience will permit.[Goes towards the Bed in his shirt, Drawers.Luc.Hold, Sir, put out the Light, it may betray us else.Blunt.Any thing, I need no other Light, but that of thine Eyes!—’Sheartlikins, there I think I had it. [Puts out the Candle, the Bed descends, he groaps about to find it. —Whe—whe—where am I got? what not yet?—where are you sweetest?—ah, the Rogue’s silent now—a pretty Love trick this—how she’l laugh at me anon!—you need not, my dear Rogue! you need not!—I’m all on fire already—come, come, now call me in pity.—Sure I’m Enchanted! I have been round the Chamber, and can find neither Woman, nor Bed—I lockt the Door, I’m sure she cannot go that way— or if she cou’d, the Bed cou’d not—Enough, enough, my pretty wanton, do not carry the jest too far—ha, Betrayed! Dogs! Rogues! Pimps!—help! help![Lights on a Trap, and is let down.Enter Lucetta, Phillippo, and Sancho with a Light.Phill.Ha, ha, ha, he’s dispatch finely.Luc.Now, Sir, had I been Coy we had mist of this Booty.Phill.Nay, when I saw ’twas a substantial Fool, I was mollified;. but when you dote upon a Serenading Coxcomb, upon a Face, fine Cloaths, and a Lute, it makes me rage.Luc.You know I was never guilty of that Folly, my dear Phillippo; but with your self—but come, let’s see what we have got by this.Phill.A rich Coat!—Sword and Hat—these Breeches too—are well lin’d—see here, a Gold Watch!—[page 40] a Purse—ha!—Gold!—at least Two Hundred Pistols! —a bunch of Diamond Rings! and one with the Family Arms!—a Gold Box!—with a Medal of his King! and his Lady Mother’s Picture!—these were Sacred Relics, believe me!—see, the Wasteband of his Breeches have a Mine of Gold!—Old Queen Besse‘s, we have a quarrel to her ever since Eighty Eight, and may therefore justify the Theft, the Inquisition might have committed it.Luc.—See, a Bracelet of bowd Gold! these his Sisters tied about his Arm at parting—but well—for all this, I fear his being a Stranger, may make a noise and hinder our Trade with them hereafter.Phill.That’s our security; he is not only a Stranger to us, but to the Country too—the Common Shoar into which he is descended, thou knowst conducts him into another Street, which this Light will hinder him from ever finding again—he knows neither your Name, nor that of the Street where you House is, nay nor the way to his own Lodgings.Luc.And art not thou an unmerciful Rogue! not to afford him one Night for all this?—I shou’d not have been such a Jew.Phill.Blame me not, Lucetta, to keep as much of thee as I can to my self—come, that thought makes me wanton!—let’s to Bed!—Sancho, lock up these.

[Exeunt.The Scene changes, and discovers Blunt, creeping out of a Common-Shoar, his Face, &c. all dirty.Blunt.Oh Lord! [Climbing up. I am got out at last, and (which is a Miracle) without a Clue— and now to Damning and Cursing!—but if that wou’d ease me, where shall I begin? with my Fortune, my self, or the Queen that couzen’d me—what a Dog was I to believe in Woman? oh Coxcomb!—Ignorant conceited Coxcomb! to fancy she could be enamoured with my Person! at first sight enamoured! —oh, I’m a cursed Puppy! ’tis plain, Fool was writ upon my Forehead! she perceiv’d it!—saw the Essex-Calf there— [page 41] for what Allurements cou’d there be in this Countenance? which I can indure, because I’m acquainted with it—oh, dull silly Dog! to be thus sooth’d into a Couzening! had I been drunk, I might fondly have credited the young Quean!—but as I was in my right Wits, to be thus cheated, confirms it I am a dull believing English Country Fop—but my Camrades! death and the Devil! there’s the worst of all—then a Ballad will be Sung to Morrow on the Prado, to a Lousie Tune of the Enchanted ‘Squire, and the Annihilated Damsel—but Fred. that Rogue! and the Colonel, will abuse me beyond all Christian patience— had she left me my Clothes, I have a Bill of Exchange at home, would have saved my Credit—but now all hope is taken from me—well, I’l home (if I can find the way) with this Consolation, that I am not the first kind believing Coxcomb; but there are Gallants many such good Natures amongst ye.

SCENE, the Garden in the Night.Enter Florinda in an undress, with a Key and a little Box.Flor.Well, thus far I’m in my way to happiness; I have got my self free from Callis; my Brother too I find by yonder light is got into his Cabinet, and thinks not of me; I have by good Fortune, got the Key of the Garden back-door.—I’ll open it to prevent Belvile‘s knocking—a little noise will now Alarm my Brother. Now am I as fearful as a young Thief. [Unlocks the door. —heark—what noise is that—oh, ’twas the Wind that played amongst the Boughs—Belvile stays long, methinks —it’s time—stay—for fear of a surprise—I’ll hide these Jewels in yonder Jessamin.[She goes to lay down the Box.Enter Willmore, drunk.WillWhat the Devil is become of these fellows, Belvile and Frederick, they promised to stay at the next Corner for me, but who the Devil knows the Corner of a Full Moon—now—where-abouts am I!—hah—what have we here a Garden!— a very convenient place to sleep in—hah—what has God [page 42] sent us here!—a Female!—by this Light a Woman!— I’m a Dog if it be not a very Wench!—Flor.He’s come!—hah—who’s there?Will.Sweet Soul! let me salute thy Shoe-string.Flor.’Tis not my Belvile.—good Heavens! I know him not —who are you, and from whence come you?Will.Prithee—prithee Child—not so many hard questions— let it suffice I am here Child—come, come kiss me.Flor.Good Gods! what luck is mine?Will.Only good luck Child, parlous good luck—come hither, —’tis a delicate shining Wench—by this hand she’s perfumed, and smells like any Nosegay—prithee dear Soul, let’s not play the Fool, and lose time—precious time—for as God shall save me I’m as honest a Fellow as breathes, tho’ I’m a little disguised at present—come I say—whe thou may’st be free with me, I’ll be very secret. I’ll not boast who ’twas obliged me, not I—for hang me if I know thy name.Flor.Heavens! what a filthy Beast is this?Will.I am so, and thou ought’st the sooner to lie with me for that reason—for look you Child, there will be no sin in’t, because ’twas neither designed nor premeditated. ‘Tis pure Accident on both sides—that’s a certain thing now—indeed should I make Love to you, and you vow fidelity—and swear and lie till you believed and yielded—that were to make it wilful Fornication —the crying Sin of the Nation—thou art therefore (as thou art a good Christian) obliged in Conscience to deny me nothing. Now—come be kind without any more idle prating.Flor.Oh I am ruined—Wicked Man unhand me.Will.Wicked!—Egad Child a Judge were he young and vigorous, and saw those Eyes of thine, would know ’twas they gave the first blow—the first provocation—come prithee let’s lose no time, I say—this is a fine convenient place.Flor.Sir, let me go, I conjure you, or I’ll call out.Will.Ay, Ay, you were best to call Witness to see how finely you treat me—do—Flor.I’ll cry Murder! Rape! or anything! if you do not instantly let me go.Will.A Rape! Come, come, you lie you Baggage, you lie, what, I’ll warrant you would fain have the World believe now that you are not so forward as I. No, not you—why at this time [page 43] of Night was your Cobweb Door set open dear Spider—but to catch Flies?—Hah—come—or I shall be damnably angry. —Whe what a Coyl is here—Flor.Sir, can you think—Will.That you would do’t for nothing—oh, oh I find what you would be at—look here, here’s a Pistol for you—here’s a work indeed—here—take it I say—Flor.For Heavens sake Sir, as you’re a Gentleman—Will.So—now—now—she would be wheadling me for more —what, you will not take it then—you are resolved you will not—come—come take it, or I’ll put if up again—for look ye, I never give more—whe how now Mistress, are you so high i’th’ Mouth a Pistol won’t down with you—hah—whe what a works’ here—in good time—come, no struggling to be gone—but an y’are good at a dumb Wrestle I’m for ye—look ye—I’m for yee—[She struggles with him.Enter Belvile and Frederick.Belv.The Door is open, a pox of this mad Fellow, I’m angry that we’ve lost him, I durst have sworn he had followed us.Fred.But you were so hasty Colonel to be gone.Flor.Help! help!—Murder!—help—oh I am ruined.Belv.

[Comes up to them.

[A Noise.[Will. turns and draws, Fred. interposes.Flor.Belvile! Heavens! my Brother too is coming, and ’twill be impossible to escape—Belvile I conjure you to walk under my Chamber Window, from whence I’ll give you some Instructions what to do—this rude Man has undone us.[Exit.Will.Belvile!Enter Pedro, Stephano, and other Servants with Lights.Ped.I’m betrayed! run Stephano and see if Florinda be safe? [Ex. Steph.oSo, who e’re they be, all is not well, I’ll to Florindas Chamber.They Fight, and Ped. Party beats ’em out.Going out, meets Steph.Steph.You need not Sir, the poor Lady’s fast asleep and thinks no harm. I would not awake her Sir, for fear of frighting her with your danger.[page 44]Red.I’m glad she’s there—Rascals how came the Garden Door open?Steph.That Question comes too late Sir, some of my Fellow Servants Masquerading I’le warrant.Ped.Masquerading! a lewd Custome to debauch our youth, —there’s something more in this then I imagine.[Exeunt.Scene changes to the Street.Enter Belvile in Rage. Fred. holding him, and Wilmore Melancholy.Will.Whe how the Devil shou’d I know Florinda?Belv.Ah plague of your Ignorance! if it had not been Florinda, must you be a Beast?—a Brute? a Senseless Swine.Will.Well Sir, you see I am endu’d with patience—I can bear —tho Egad y’are very free with me, methinks.—I was in good hopes the Quarrel wou’d have been on my side, for so uncivilly interrupting me.Belv.Peace Brute! whilst thou’rt safe—oh I’m distracted.Will.Nay, nay, I’m an unlucky Dogg, that’s certain.Belv.Ah Curse upon the Star that Rul’d my Birth! or whatsoever other Influence that makes me still so wretched.Will.Thou break’st my Heart with these complaints; there is no Star in fault, no Influence, but Sack, the cursed Sack I drunk.Fred.Whe how the Devil came you so drunk?Will.Whe how the Devil came you so sober?Belv.A Curse upon his thin Skull, he was always before hand that way.Fred.Prithee Dear Colonel forgive him, he’s sorry for his Fault.Belv.He’s always so after he has done a mischief—a plague on all such Brutes.Will.By this Light I took her for an Errant Harlot.Belv.Damn your debaucht opinion! tell me Sot had’st thou so much sense and light about thee to distinguish her Woman, and coud st not see something about her Face and Person, to strike an awful Reverence into thy Soul?Will.Faith no, I consider’d her as meer a Woman as I cou’d wish.[page 45]Belv.’Sdeath, I have no patience—draw, or I’ll kill you.Will.Let that alone till to Morrow, and if I set not all right again, use your pleasure.Belv.

Will.What then?Belv.Let thy own Reason, or my Rage instruct thee.Will.I shall be finely inform’d then, no doubt, hear me Colonel —hear me—shew me the Man and I’le do his Business.Belv.I know him no more than thou, or if I did I shou’d not need thy Aid.Will.This you say is Angellicas House, I promis’d the kind Baggage to lye with her to Night.Offers to go in.Enter Antonio and his Page. Ant. knock on the Hilt of’s Sword.Ant.You paid the Thousand Crowns I directed?Page.To the Ladies Old Woman, Sir I did.Will.Who the Devil have we here!Belv.I’ll now plant my self under Florinda‘s Window, and if I find no comfort there, I’ll dye.[Ex. Belv. and Fred.Enter Moretta.Moret.Page!Page.Here’s my Lord.Will.How is this! a Pickroone going to board my Fregate? here’s one Chase Gun for you.Drawing his Sword, justlesAnt. who turns and draws. They fight, Ant. falls.Moret.Oh bless us! we’re all undone![Runs in and shuts the Door.Page.Help! Murder![Belvile returns at the noise of fighting.Belv.Ha! the mad Rogue’s engag’d in some unlucky Adventure again.[page 46] Enter two or three Masqueraders.Masq.Ha! a Man kill’d!Will.How! a Man kill’d! then I’l go home to sleep.[Puts up and reels out▪Ex. Masq.que another way.Belv.Who shou’d it be! pray Heaven the Rogue is safe for all my Quarrel to him.[As Belvile is groping about, Enter an Officer and six Soldiers.Sold.Who’s there?Offic.So, here’s one dispatcht—secure the Murderer.Belv.Do not mistake my Charity for Murder! I came to his Assistance.[Soldiers seise on Belvile.Offic.That shall be try’d, Sir—St. Iago, Swords drawn in the Carnival time![Goes to Antonio.Ant.Thy hand prithee.Offic.Ha! Don Antonio! look well to the Villain there.— How is it, Sir?Ant.I’m hurt.Belv.Has my humanity made me a Criminal?Offic.Away with him.Belv.What a curst chance is this?[Ex. Soldiers with Belv.Ant.This is the Man, that has set upon me twice—carry him to my Appartment, till you have farther Orders from me.[To the Officer.Ex. Ant. led.The End of the Third ACT.ACT IV.Scene I. A fine Room.Discovers Belvile as by dark alone.Belv.VVHen shall I be weary of railing on Fortune, who is resolv’d never to turn with smiles upon me —Two such defeats in one Night—none but the Devil, and that mad Rogue cou’d have contriv’d to have plagu’d me with [page 47] —I am here a Prisoner—but where—Heav’n knows —and if there be Murder done, I can soon decide the Fate of a Stranger in a Nation without mercy—yet this is nothing to the Torture my Soul bows with, when I think of losing my fair, my dear Florinda—heark—my door opens—a Light— a Man—and seems of Quality—arm’d too!—now shall I dye like a Dog without defence.Enter Antonio in a Night-Gown, with a Light; his Arm in a Scarf, and a Sword under his Arm: he sets the Candle on the Table.Ant.Sir, I come to know what Injuries I have done you, that cou’d provoke you to so mean an Action, as to Attack me basely, without allowing time for my defence?Belv.Sir, for a Man in my circumstances to plead Innocence, wou’d look like fear—but view me well, and you will find no marks of Coward on me; nor any thing that betrays that Brutality you accuse me with.Ant.

Belv.I own I fought to day in the defence of a Friend of mine, with whom you (if you’re the same) and your Party were first engag’d.

Ant.No, Sir, I’l make you fit for a defence with this.[Gives him the Sword.Belv.This Gallantry surprizes me—nor know I how to use this Present, Sir, against a Man so brave.Ant.

Belv.

Ant.

Bel.

aside.Ant.

Belv.

Ant.

Belv.

[aside.

Ant.

Belv.

aside.Ant.

Belv.

[aside.

Belv.

Ant.

Belv.

Ant.

Belv.

Ant.

[Exit Antonio.Belv.

[Exit.SCENE, the Mole.Enter Florinda and Callis in Masques with Stephano.Flor.I’m dying with my fears, Belvile‘s not coming as I expected under my Window,

aside.

Steph.No, Madam, they were both in Masquerade, I was by when they challeng’d one another, and they had decided the Quarrel then, but were prevented by some Cavaliers; which made ’em put it off till now—but I am sure ’tis about you they fight.Flor.Nay, then ’tis with Belvile, for what other Lover have I that dares fight for me, except Antonio? and he is too much in favour with my Brother—if it be he, for whom shall I direct my Prayers to Heav’n?aside.Steph.Madam, I must leave you, for if my Master see me, I shall be hang’d for being your Conductor—escapt narrowly for the excuse I made for you last Night i’th Garden.Flor.And I’l reward thee for’t—prithee no more.[Ex. Steph.Enter Don Pedro in his Masquing Habit.Pedro.Antonio‘s late to day, the place will fill, and we may be prevented.[Walks about.Flor.Antonio sure I heard amiss.[aside.Pedro.

[page 50] Enter Belvile drest in Antonio’s Clothes.Flor.

Pedro.

Belv.

[aside.

Pedro.

Belv.

aside.Pedro.

Belv.

[aside.

[Offers to fight, Flor. runs in.Flor.

[To Belv.Pedro.

Belv.

Pedro.

[Puts her by, they fight; she runs in just as Belv. disarms Pedro.Flor.

Belv.

[She holds him.Flor.

Belv.

[Lays his Sword at her feet.Pedro.Antonio, you’ve done enough to prove you love Florinda.Belv.Love Florinda!Does Heav’n love Adoration! Pray’r! or Penitence! Love her! here, Sir,—your Sword again. [Snatches up the Sword and gives it him. Upon this truth I’l fight my life away.Pedro.No, you’ve redeem’d my Sister, and my Friendship!Belv.

He gives him Flor. and pulls off his Vizard to shew his Face and puts it on again.Pedro.

[page 51]Belv.

Pedro.

Flor.

Enter Masqueraders and pass over.Belv.

Pedro.The place begins to fill, and that we may not be observ’d, do you walk off to St. Peters Church, where I will meet you, and conclude your happiness.Belv.I’ll meet you there.—If there be no more Saints Churches in Naples.[Aside.Flor.

Pedro.

Belv.

Flor.

Belv.

[Draws her aside.Flor.

[Pedro talks to Callis this while.Belv.

[Pulls off his Vizard.Flor.

As they are talking, Enter Wilmore finely drest, and Frederick.Will.No Intelligence! no News of Belvile yet—well I am the most unlucky Rascal in Nature—ha—am I deceiv’d —or is it he—look Ferd.—’tis he—my dear Belvile.Runs and Embraces him. Belv. Vizard falls out on’s Hand.Belv.

[page 52]Pedro.

[Takes Flor. from him.Belv.

Will.Did’st thou so—and Egad Child wee’l keep her by the Sword.[Draws on Pedro. Belv. goes between.Belv.

Will.Nay an you be so hot, my Valour’s Coy, and shall be Courted when you want it next.[Puts up his Sword.Belv.

[To Pedro.

Pedro.

Aside to Flor. as they are going out Belv. looks after her and begins to walk up and down in Rage.Will.Do not be Modest now and loose the Woman, but if wee shall fetch her back so—Belv.Do not speak to me—Will.Not speak to you—Egad I’ll speak to you, and will be answer’d too.Belv.Will you Sir—Will.I know I’ve done some mischief, but I’m so dull a Puppey, that I’m the Son of a Whore, if I know how, or where— prithee inform my understanding—Belv.Leave me I say, and leave me instantly.Will.I will not leave you in this humour, nor till I know my Crime.[page 53]Belv.Death I’ll tell you Sir—Draws and runs at Will. he runs out, Belv. after him, Fred. interposes.Enter Angellica, Moretta and Sebastian.Ang.

Fred’The Colonel’s mad—I never saw him thus before, I’l after ’em least he do some mischief, for I am sure Wilmore will not draw on him.[Exit.Ang.

Morett.I told you what wou’d come ou’t, but Moretta‘s an old doating Fool—why did you give him five Hundred Crowns, but to set himself out for other Lovers! you shou’d have kept him Poor, if you had meant to have had any good from him.Ang.

Morett.

Enter Willmore and Sebast. Ang. turns and walks away.Will.

[page 54] [Sings.]

As she turns she looks on him.Ang.Well Sir, you may be gay, all happiness, all joyes pursue you still, Fortune’s your Slave, and gives you every hour choyce of new hearts and Beauties, till you are cloy’d with the repeated Bliss, which others vainly languish for.——But know false Man that I shall be reveng’d.[Turns away in Rage.Will.So gad there are of those faint hearted Lovers, whom such a sharp Lesson next their hearts, wou’d make as Impotent as Fourscore—pox o’ this whining.—My bus’ness is to laugh and love—a pox on’t, I hate your sullen Lover, a Man shall lose as much time to put you in humour now, as wou’d serve to gain a new Woman.Ang.

Will.A virtuous Mistress! death, what a thing thou hast found out for me! why what the Devil, shou’d I do with a virtuous Woman? —a sort of ill-natur’d Creatures, that take a Pride to torment a Lover, Virtue is but an infirmity in Woman; a Disease that renders even the handsome ungrateful; whilst the ill-favour’d for want of Solicitations and Address, only fancy themselves so.—I have layn with a Woman of Quality, who has all the while been railing at Whores.Ang.

Will.Two Hundred Thousand Crowns! what Story’s this? —what Trick?—what Woman?—ha!Ang.How strange you make it, have you forgot the Creature you entertain’d on the Prazo last Night?Will.Ha! my Gipsie worth Two Hundred Thousand Crowns! —oh how I long to be with her—pox, I knew she was of Quality.[Aside.[page 55]Ang.

Will.Faith no, I was just coming to repeat ’em—but here’s a humour indeed—wou’d make a Man a Saint—wou’d she wou’d be angry enough to leave me, and Command me not to wait on her.[Aside.Enter Hellena drest in Man’s Cloths.Hell.This must be Angellica! I know it by her mumping Matron here—Ay, ay, ’tis she! my Mad Captain’s with her too, for all his swearing—how this unconstant humour makes me love him!—Pray good grave Gentle woman is not this Angellica?Moret.My too young Sir, it is—I hope ’tis one from Don Antonio.[Goes to Angellica.Hell.Well, something I’l do to vex him for this.[aside.Ang.I will not speak with him; am I in humour to receive a Lover.Will.Not speak with him! whe I’l begon—and wait your idler Minutes—can I shew less obedience to the thing I love so fondly?Offers to go.Ang.A fine excuse, this!—stay—Will.And hinder your advantage! shou’d I repay your Bounties so ungratefully?Ang.

Will.Oh, you destroy me with this indearment. [Impatient to be gone. —Death! how shall I get away—Madam, ’twill not be fit I shou’d be seen with you—besides, it will not be convenient —and I’ve a Friend—that’s dangerously sick.Ang.I see you’re impatient—yet you shall stay.Will.And miss my Assignation with my Gipsie.[Aside, and walks about impatiently.Hell.

Moretta brings Hellena, who addresses her self to Angellica.

Ang.

[To Will. who is stealing off.Will.

aside.Ang.

Will.

[aside.Ang.

[To Will.Will.Nay, then I’m sure ’twas me he spoke off, this cannot be the effects of kindness in her.aside.

Ang.

Will.

Ang.

[aside.Hell.

Will.So, this is some dear Rogue that’s in Love with me,And this way lets me know it; or if it be not me, she means some one whose place I may supply.[page 57]Ang.

Will.

Hell.

Ang.

Hell.

Will.

[aside.

Ang.Oh, I shall burst with Jealousie! do you know the Man you speak off?—Hell.

Ang.

[To Will.Will.

Ang.

Hell.

[He walks about, they follow.Ang.

Hell.

Ang.

Hell.

Will.

Ang.

Hell.

Will.

[aside.Ang.

[She turns away and weeps.Will.Sweet heart, the Lady’s Name and House,—quickly: I’m impatient to be with her.—Aside to Hellena, looks towards Angell. to watch her turning, and as she comes towards them he meets her.[page 58]Hell.

[aside.Will.

Ang.

[In rage walks away.Will.

[Said softly to Hell.Hell.

Will.

[aside.

[Angell. turns.

Ang.

[Walks away.Will.

[Ang. turns towards them.

Ang.

Hell.I think—it is, I cannot swear, but I vow he has just such another lying Lovers look.[Hell. looks in his face, he gazes on her.Will.

aside.

Hell.

Will.

Hell.

Will.

Hell.Ay, ay, he does know me—Nay, dear Captain! I am undone if you discover me.Will.Nay, nay, no eogging, she shall know what a pretious Mistris I have.Hell.Will you be such a Devil?Will.Nay, nay, I’l teach you to spoil sport you will not make. [page 59] — this small Ambassador comes not from a Person of Quality as you Imagine, and he says: but from a very Errant Gipsie, the talking’st, prating’st, canting’st little Animal thou ever saw’st.Ang.What news you tell me, that’s the thing I mean.Hell.Wou’d I were well off the place, if ever I go a Captain, Hunting again— AsideWill.Mean that thing? that Gipsie thing, thou may’st as well be Jealous of thy Monkey or Parrot, as of her, a German Motion were worth a duzen of her, and a Dream were a better enjoyment, a Creature of a Constitution fitter for Heaven then Man.Hell.Tho I’m sure he lyes, yet this vexes me. Aside.Ang.You are mistaken, she’s a Spanish Woman Made up of no such dull Materials.Will.Materials, Egad an shee be made of any that will either dispence or admit of Love, I’le be bound to continence.Hell.Unreasonable Man, do you think so? Aside to him. — you may return my little Brazen Head, and tell your Lady, that till she be handsom enough to be belov’d, or I dull enough to be Religious, there will be small hopes of me.Ang.Did you not promise then to marry her?Will.Not I by heaven.Ang.You cannot undeceive my fears and torments, till you have vow’d you will not marry her.Hel.If he Swears, that he’le be reveng’d on me indeed for all my Rogueries. Aside.Ang.I know what Arguments you’ll bring against me, Fortune, and Honour.—Will.Honour, I tell you, I hate it in your Sex, and those that fancy themselves possest of that Foppery, are the most impertinently troublesome of all Woman kind, and will transgress Nine Commandments to keep one, and to satisfie your Jealousie I swear.Hell.Oh, no swearing dear Captain. Aside to him.Will.If it were possible, I should ever be inclin’d to marry, it shou’d be some kind young Sinner, one that has generosity, enough to give a favour hansomely to one that can ask it discreetly, one that has Witt enough to Manage an intrigue of Love—oh, how civil such a Wench is, to a Man that does her the Honour to marry her.Ang.By Heaven there’s no Faith in any thing he says.[page 60] Enter Sebastian.Sebas.Madam, Don Antonio—Ang.Come hither.Hell.Ha! Antonio, he may be coming hither and he’l certainly discover me, I’le therefore retire without a Ceremony.[Exit Hellena.Ang.I’le see him, get my Coach ready.Seba.It waits you Madam,Will.This is luckey: what Madam, now I may be gone and leave you to the injoyment of my Rival?Ang.

Will.Yes, you can spare me now,—farewel, till you’re in better Humour—I’m glad of this release—

[Ex. Wilmore.Ang.

[Exeunt.[page 61]SCENE the Third. A Street.Enter Florinda and Valeria in Habits different from what they have been seen in.Flor.We’re happily Escap’t, and yet I tremble still.Val.A Lover and fear! whe I am but half an one, and yet I have Courage for any attempt, wou’d Hellena were here , I wou’d fain have had her as deep in this Mischief as we, she’le fare but in else I doubt.Flor.She pretended a Visit to the Augustine Nuns, but I believe some other design carried her out, pray Heaven we light on her.—Prithee what did’st do with Callis?Val.When I saw no reason wou’d do good on her, I follow’d her into the Wardrobe, and as she was looking for something in a great Chest, I topled her in by the heels, snatch’t the Key of the Appartment where you were confin’d, lock’t her in, and left her bawling for help.Flor.’Tis well you resolve to follow my Fortunes, for thou darest never appear at home again after such an action.Val.That’s according as the young Stranger and I shall agree. —but to our bus’ness—I deliver’d your Letter, your Note to Belvile, when I got out under pretence of going to Mass, I found him at his Lodging, and believe me it came seasonably; for never was Man in so desperate a Condition, I told him of your resolution of making your Escape to day, if your Brother would be absent long enough to permit you; if not,to die rather than be Antonio’s.Flor.Thou should’st have told him I was confin’d to my Chamber upon my Brothers suspition, that the bus’ness on the Molo was a Plott laid between him and I.Val.I said all this, and told him your Brother was now gone to his Devotion, and he resolves to visit every Church till he find him; and not only undeceive him in that, but carress him so as shall delay his return home.Flor.Oh Heavens! he’s here, and Belvile with him too.They put on their Vizards.Enter Don Pedro, Belvile, Willmore. Bel.and Don Pedro seeming in serious discourse.Val.Walk boldly by them, and I’le come at distance, least he suspect us.She walks by them, and looks back on them.[page 62]Will.Hah! a Woman, and of an Excellent Mien.Ped.She throws a kind look back on you.Will.Death, tis a likely Wench, and that kind look shall not be cast away—I’le follow her.Bell.Prithee do not.Will.Do not, by Heavens to the Antipodies, with such an invitation.[She goes out, and Will. follows her.Bell.’Tis a mad Fellow for a Wench.Enter Fred.Fred.Oh Col. such News!Belv.Prithee what?Fred.News that will make you laugh in spight of Fortune.Bel.What, Blunt has had some Damn’d Trick put upon him, Cheated, Bang’d or Clapt.Fred.Cheated Sir, rarely Cheated of all but his Shirt &Drawers, the unconscionable Whore too turn’d him out before Consummation, so that traversing the Streets at Midnight, the Watch found him in this Fresco, and conducted him home: By Heaven ’tis such a sight, and yet I durst as well been hang’d as laught at him, or pity him; he beats all that do but ask him a question, and is in such an Humour.Ped.Who is’t has met with this Ill usage, Sir?Bell.A Friend of ours whom you must see for mirths sake. I’le imploy him to give Florinda time for an escape.[Aside.Ped.What is he?Bell.A Young Countryman of ours, one that has been Educated at so plentiful a rate, he yet ne’re knew the want of Money, and ’twill be a great Jeast to see how simply he’le look without it, for my part I’le lend him none, and the Rogue know not how to put on a Borrowing face, and ask first, I’le let him see how good ’tis to play our parts whilst I play his—prithee Fred. do you go home and keep him in that posture till we come.[Exeunt.Enter Florinda from the farther end of the Scene, looking behind ber.Flor.I am follow’d still—hah.—my Brother too advancing this way, good Heavens defend me from being seen by him.[She goes off.[page 63] Enter Willmore, and after him Valeria, at a little distance.Will.Ah! There she sailes, she looks back as she were willing to be boarded, I’le warrant her Prize.[He goes out, Valeria following.Enter Hellena, just as he goes out, with a Page:Hell.Hah, is not that my Captain that has a Woman in chase? —’tis not Angellica; Boy, follow those people at a distance, and bring me an account where they go in,—I’le find his haunts, and plague him every where,—ha—my Brother—[Ex. Page.[Bel. Wil. Ped. cross the Stage: Hell. runs off.Scene changes to another Street. Enter Florinda.Flor.

Will no kind Pow’r protect me from his tyranny? —hah, here’s a door open, I’le venture in, since nothing can be worse then to fall into his hands, my life and honour are at stake, and my Necessity has no choyce.[She goes in.Enter Valeria and Hellena’s Page peeping after Florinda.Page.Here she went in, I shall remember this house.[Ex. Boy.Val.This is Belvil‘s Lodging; she’s gone in as readily as if she knew it,—hah—here’s that Mad Fellow again, I dare not venture in,—I’le watch my opportunity.[Goes aside.Enter Willmore, gazing about him.Will.I have lost her hereabouts—Pox on’t, she must not scape me so.[Goes out.Scene changes to Blunts Chamber, discovers him sitting on a Couch in his Shirt and Drawers, reading.Blunt.So, now my mind’s a little at peace, since I have resolv’d revenge—a Pox on this Tayler tho, for not bringing home the Clothes I bespoke; and a Pox of all poor Cavaliers, a Man can never keep a spare Suit for ’em; and I shall have these Rogues come in and find me naked, and then I’m undone; but I’m resolv’d to arm my self—the Rascals shall not insult over me too much. [Puts on an old rusty Sword, and Buff Belt. —Now, how like a Morrice-Dancer I am Equipt—a fine [page 64] Lady like Whore to Cheat me thus, without affording me a kindness for my Money, a Pox light on her, I shall never be reconcil’d to the Sex more, she has made me as faithless as a Phisitian, as uncharitable as a Church-man, and as ill natur’d as a Poet. Oh how I’l use all woman-kind hereafter! what wou’d I give to have one of ’em within my reach now! any Mortal thing in Petticoats, kind Fortune, send me! and I’l forgive thy last nights Malice—here’s a Cursed Book too, (a warning to all young Travellers) that can instruct me how to prevent such Mischiefs now ’tis too late, well ’tis a rare convenient thing to read a little now and then, as well as Hawk and Hunt.[Sits down again and Reads.Enter to him Florinda.Flor.This House is haunted sure, ’tis well furnisht and no living thing inhabits it—hah—a Man, Heavens how he’s attir’d! sure ’tis some Rope-dancer, or Fencing-master; I tremble now for fear, and yet I must venture now to speak to him—Sir, if I may not interrupt your Meditations—[She starts up and gazes.Blunt.Hah—what’s here! are my wishes granted? and is not that a she Creature? ads heartlikins ’tis! what wretched thing art thou—hah!Flor.Charitable Sir, you’ve told your self already what I am; a very wretched Maid, forc’t by a strange unlucky accident, to seek a safety here,And must be ruin’d, if you do not grant it.Blunt.Ruin’d! is there any ruin so inevitable as that which now threatens thee? dost thou know, miserable Woman! into what Den of Mischiefs thou art fall’n? what abiss of Confusion— hah!—dost not see something in my looks that frights thy guilty Soul, and makes thee wish to change that shape of Woman for any humble Animal, or Devil? for those were safer for thee, and less mischievous.Flor.Alas, what mean you, Sir? I must confess, your looks have something in ’em, makes me fear, but I beseech you, as you seem a Gentleman, pity a harmless Virgin, that takes your house for Sanctuary.Blunt.Talk on, talk on, and weep too, till my Faith-return Do, flatter me out of my Senses again—a harmless Virgin [page 65] with a Pox, as much one as ‘tother, adsheartlikins. Whe what the Devil can I not be safe in my House for you, not in my Chamber, nay, even being naked too cannot secure me: this is an Impudence greater than has invaded me yet—Come, no resistance.[Pulls her rudely.Flor.Dare you be so cruel?Blunt.Cruel, adsheartlikins as a Galley slave, or a Spanish▪ Whore: Cruel, yes I will kiss and beat thee all over; kiss, and see thee all over; thou shalt lye with me too, not that I care for the injoyment, but to let thee see I have tain deliberated Malice to thee, and will be reveng’d on one Whore for the sins of another; I will smile and deceive thee, flatter thee, and beat thee, kiss and swear, and lye to thee, imbrace thee and rob thee, as she did me, fawn on thee, and strip thee stark naked; then hang thee out at my window by the heels, with a Paper of scurvy Verses fasten’d to thy breast, in praise of damnable women—Come come along.Flor.Alas, Sir, must I be sacrific’d for the Crimes of the most infamous of my Sex, I never understood the fins you name.Blunt.Do, perswade the Fool you Love him, or that one of you can be just or honest, tell me I was not an easie Coxcomb, or any strange impossible tale: it will be believ’d sooner than thy false Showres or Protestations. A generation of damn’d Hypocrites to flatter my very Clothes from my Back! dissembling Witches! are these the returns you make an honest Gentleman, that trusts, believes, and loves you—but if I be not even with you—Come along—or I shall—[Pulls her again.Enter Fredrick.Fred.Hah! what’s here to do?Blunt.Adsheartlikins, Fred. I am glad thou art come, to be a witness of my dire revenge.Fred.What’s this, a Person of Quality too, who is upon the ramble to supply the defects of some grave impotent Husband?Blunt.No, this has another pretence, some very unfortunate accident, brought her hither, to save a life pursu’d by I know not who, or why, and forc’t to take sanctuary here at Fools Haven. Adsheartlikins to me of all Mankind for protection? is the Ass to be Cajold again, think ye? No, young one, no Prayers or Tears shall mitigate my rage; therefore prepare for both my [page 66] pleasures of injoyment and revenge, for I am resolv’d to make up my loss here on thy body, I’l take it out in kindness and in beating.Fred.Now Mistress of mine, what do you think of this?Flor.I think he will not—dares not be so barbarous.Fred.Have a care, Blunt, she fetch’t a deep sigh, she is inamour’d with thy Shirt and Drawers, she’l strip thee even of that, there are of her calling such unconscionable Baggages, and such dexterous Thieves, they’l flea a man and he shall ne’re miss his skin, till he feels the cold. There was a Country-man of ours Rob’d of a Row of Teeth whilst he was a sleeping, which the Jilt made him buy again when he wak’t—you see Lady how little reason we have to trust you.Blunt.’Dsheartlikins, whe this is most abominable.Flor.Some such Devils there may be, but by all that’s Holy, I am none such, I enter’d here to save a Life in danger.Blunt.For no goodness, I’l warrant her.Fred.Faith, Damsel, you had e’en confest the plain truth, for we are fellows not to be caught twice in the same Trap: look on that Wreck, a tite Vessel when he set out of Haven, well Trim’d and Laden, and see how a Female Piccaroon of this Island of Rogues has shatter’d him, and canst thou hope for any Mercy?Blunt.No, no, Gentlewoman, come along, adsheartlikins we must be better acquainted—we’l both lye with her, and then let me alone to bang her.Fred.I’m ready to serve you in matters of Revenge that has a double pleasure in’t.Blunt.Well said. You hear, little one, how you are condemn’d by publick Vote to the Bed within, there’s no resisting your Destiny, sweet heart.[Pulls her.Flor.Stay, Sir, I have seen you with Belvile, an English Cavalier, for his sake use me kindly; you know him, Sir.Blunt.Belvile, whe yes, sweeting, we do know Belvile, and wish he were with us now, he’s a Cormorant at Whore and Bacon, he’d have a Limb or two of thee my Virgin Pullet, but ’tis no matter, we’l leave him the bones to pick.Flor.Sir, if you have any Esteem for that Belvile, I conjure you to treat me with more gentleness; he’l thank you for the justice.[page 67]Fred.Harkey, Blunt, I doubt we are mistaken in this Matter.Flor.Sir, if you find me not worth Belvile‘s care, use me as you please, and that you may think I merit better treatment than you threaten—pray take this present—[Gives him a Ring: he loods on it.Blunt.Hum—a Diamond! whe ’tis a wonderful Virtue now that lies in this Ring, a mollifying Virtue; adsheartlikins there’s more perswasive Rhetorick in’t, than all her Sex can utter.Fred.I begin to suspect something; and ‘twould anger us vilely to be trust up for a rape upon a Maid of quality, when we only believe we ruffle a Harlot.Blunt.Thou art a credulous Fellow, but adsheartlikins I have no Faith yet, whe my Saint prattled as parlously as this does, she gave me a Bracelet too, a Devil on her, but I sent my Man to fell it to day for Necessaries, and it prov’d as counterfeit as her Vows of Love.Fred.However let it reprieve her till we see Belvile.Blunt.That’s hard, yet I will grant it.Enter a Servant.Serv.Oh, Sir, the Colonel is just come in with his new Friend and a Spaniard of Quality, and talks of having you to Dinner with ’em.Blunt.’Dsheartlikins, I’m undone—I would not see ’em for the World. Harkey, Fred. lock up the Wench in your Chamber.Fred.Fear nothing, Madam, what e’re he threatens, you are safe whilst in my hands.[Ex. Fred. and Flor.Blunt.And, Sirrah—upon your life, say—I am not at home,—or that I am asleep—or—or any thing—away— I’l prevent their coming this way.[Locks the Door, and Exeunt.The End of the Fourth ACT.[page 68]ACT V.Scene I. Blunt’s Chamber.After a great knocking as at his Chamber Door, Enter Blunt softly crossing the Stage, in his Shirt and Drawers as before.Ned, Ned Blunt, Ned Blunt.[call within.Blunt.The Rogues are up in Arms, ‘Sheartlikins this Villainous Frederick has betray’d me, they have heard of my blessed Fortune,Ned Blunt, Ned, Ned—[and knocking within.Bell.Whe he’s dead Sir, without dispute dead, he has not been seen to day, let’s break open the door—here—Boy—Blunt.Ha, break open the door. d’sheartlikins that mad Fellow will be as good as his word.Bell.Boy bring something to force the door,[a great noise within, at the door again.Blunt.So, now must I speak, in my own defence, I’l try what Rhetorick will do—hold—hold what do you mean Gentlemen, what do you mean?Bell.Oh Rogue art a live, prithee open the door and convince us.[within.Blunt.Yes, I am alive Gentlemen,—but at present a little busie.Bell.How, Blunt grown a Man of business, come, come, open and let’s see this Miracle.[within.Blunt.No, no, no, no, Gentlemen ’tis no great business—but —I am—at—my Devotion—d’sheartlikins will you not alow a Man time to Pray.Bell.Turn’d Religious! a greater wonder then the first, therefore open quickly, or we shall unhinge, we shall.[within.Blunt.This won’t do—whe hearkey Col. to tell you the plain truth, I am about a necessary affair of life—I have a wench with me—you apprehend me? the Devils in’t if they be so uncivil as to disturb me now,Will.How a Wench! Nay then we must enter and partake no resistance—unless it be your Lady of Quality, and then we’l keep our distance,[page 69]Blunt.So, the bus’ness is out.Will.Come, come lends more hands to the Door—now heave altogether—so well done my Boyes—[breaks open the Door.Enter Belvile, Willmore, Fred. and Pedro. Blunt looks simply, they all laugh at him, he lays his hand on his Sword, and comes up to Wilmore.Blunt.Hearkey Sir, laugh out your laugh quickly, de ye hear, and begone. I shall spoil your sport else, ‘adsheartlikins Sir, I shall the jeast has been carryed on too long—a plague upon my Tayler.—[aside.Will.’Sdeath, how the Whore has drest him, Faith Sir I’m sorry.Blunt.Are you so Sir, keep’t to your self then Sir, I advise you, de’ye hear, for I can as little endure your pitty as his Mirth.[lays his hand on’s Sword.Belv.Indeed Willmore, thou wer’t a little too rough with Ned Blunts Mistress, call a Person of Quality whore? and one so young, so sandsome, and so Eloquent—ha, ha, he.—Blunt.Harkey Sir, you know me, and know I can be angry, have a care—for adsheartlikins I can fight too—I can Sir,—do you mark me—no more—Belv.Why so peevish good Ned, some disappointments I’le warrant—what? did the Jealous Count her Husband return just in the nick?Blunt.Or the Devil Sir—de’ye laugh— [they laugh. Look ye settle me a good sober countenance, and that quickly too, or you shall know Ned Blunt is not—Belv,Not every Body, we know that.Blunt.Not an Ass to be laught at Sir,Will.Unconscionable sinner, to bring a Lover so neer his happiness, a vigorous passionate Lover, and then not only cheat him of his moveables, but his very desires to.Belv.Ah! Sir a Mistress, is a trifle with Blunt. he’l have a duzen the next time he looks abroad, his Eyes have Charms, not to be resisted, there needs no more then to expose that taking Person, to the view of the Fair, and he leads ’em all in Triumph.Ped.Sir, tho ‘I’me a stranger to you, I am asham’d at the rudeness of my Nation; and cou’d you learn who did it, wou’d assist you to make an Example of ’em.[page 70]Blunt.Whe aye, there’s one speaks Sense now, and han’somly; and let me tell you Gentlemen, I shou’d not have shew’d my self like a Jack Puding, thus to have made you Mirth, but that I have revenge within my power, for know, I have got into my possession a Femal, who had better have fallen under any Curse, then the ruine I design her: ‘adsheartlikins she assaulted me here in my own Lodgings, and had doubtless committed a Rape upon me, had not this Sword defended me.Fred.I know not that, but O my conscience thou had Ravisht her, had shee not redeem’d her self with a Ring—let’s see’t Blunt.[Blunt shews the Ring.Belv.Hah!—the Ring I gave Florinda, when we Exchange our Vows—harkey Blunt,—[Goes to whisper to him.Will.No whispering good Col. there’s a Woman in the case, no whispering.Belv.Harkey Fool, be advis’d, and conceal both the Ring and the story for your Reputations sake, do not let people know what despis’d Cullies we English are, to be cheated and abus’d by one Whore, and another rather bribe thee than be kind to thee is an Infamy to our Nation.Will.Come, come where’s the Wench, we’l see her, let her be what she will, wee’l see her.Ped.Ay, ay, let us see her, I can soon discover whether she be of quality, or for your diversion.Blunt.She’s in Freds Custody.Will.Come, come the Key,[To Fred. who gives him the Key, they are going.Belv.Death, what shall I do—Stay Gentlemen—yet if I hinder ’em I shall discover all,—hold —lets go one at once—give me the Key.Will.Nay hold there Col. I’le go first.Fred.Nay no dispute, Ned and I have the gropriety of her.Will.Damn propriety—then we’l draw cuts, —nay no corruption good Col. come the longest Sword carries her—Belv. goes to whisper Will.They all draw forgetting Don Pedro being as a Spaniard had the longest.Blunt.I yield up my int’rest to you Gentlemen, and that will be; revenge sufficient.Will.The Wench is yours— [to Pedro.] Pox of his Tolledo, I had forgot that.[page 71]Fred.Come Sir, I’le Conduct you to the Lady[Ex. Fred. & Ped.Belv.

[Aside.

Will. walking up and down out of Humour.Will.Aye, Aye, to trust our Fortune to Lotts, a Devil on’t, ’twas madness that’s the truth on’t.Belv.Oh intollerable Sott—Enter Florinda running mask’t, Pedro after her: Will. gazing round her.Flor.Good Heaven defend me from discovery.[aside.Pedro.’Tis but in vain to fly me, you’re fallen to my Lot.Belv.Sure she’s undiscovered yet, but now I fear there is no way to bring her off:Will.Whe what a Pox is not this my woman, the same I follow’d but now?[Ped. talking to Florinda, who walks up and down.Ped.As if I did not know yee, and your business here.Flor.Good Heaven, I fear he does indeed—[aside.Ped.Come, pray be kind, I know you meant to be so when you enter’d here, for these are proper Gentlemen.Will.But Sir—perhaps the Lady will not be impos’d upon, She’l chuse her Man.Ped.I am better bred, then not to leave her choice free.Enter Valeria, and is surpriz’d at sight of Don Pedro.Val.Don Pedro here! there’s no avoiding him.[aside.Flor.Valeria! then I’m undone,—[aside,Val.Oh! have I found you Sir— [To Pedro running to him. —the strangest accident—if I had breath—to tell it.Ped.Speak—is Florinda safe? Hellena well?Val.Ay, Ay Sir—Florinda—is safe—from any fears of you.Ped.Why where’s Florinda?—speak—Val.Aye, where indeed Sir, I wish I cou’d inform you, —but to hold you no longer in doubt—Flor.Oh what will she say—[Aside.Val.—She’s fled away in the habit—of one of her Pages Sir— but Callis thinks you may retrieve her yet, if you make haste away, she’l tell you, Sir, the rest—if you can find her out.[Aside.Ped.Dishonourable Girle, she has undone my Aime—Sir—you see my necessity of leaving you, and hope you’l Pardon it; my [page 72] Sister I know will make her flight to you; and if she do, I shall Expect she shou’d be render’d back.Belv.I shall consult my Love and Honour Sir.[Ex. Ped.Flor.My dear Preserver, let me imbrace thee.[To Val.Will.What the Devil’s all this?Blunt.Mysterie by this light.Val.Come, come, make haste and get your selves married quickly, for your Brother will return again.Belv.I’m so surpriz’d with fears and joyes, so amaz’d to find you here in safety, I can scarce perswade my heart into a faith of what I see—Will.Harkey Colonel, is this that Mistress who has cost you so many sighs, and me so many quarrels with you?Bel.It is—pray give him the honour of your hand.[To Flor.Will.Thus it must be receiv’d then [Kneels and kisses her hand. And with it give your Pardon too.Flor.The Friend to Belvile may command me any thing.Will.Death, wou’d I might, ’tis a surprizing Beauty.[Aside.Bel.Boy, run and fetch a Father instantly.[Ex. Boy.Fred.So, now do I stand like a Dog, and have not a syllable to plead my own Cause with: by this hand, Madam, I was never throughly confounded before, nor shall I ever more dare look up with confidence, till you are pleas’d to Pardon me.Flor.Sir, I’le be reconcil’d to you on one condition, that you’l follow the Example of your Friend, in Marrying a Maid that does not hate you, and whose fortune (I believe) will not be unwelcome to you.Fred.Madam, had I no Inclinations that way, I shou’d obey your kind Commands.Bell.Who Fred. marry, he has so few inclinations for Woman kind, that had he been possest of Paradice, he might have continu’d there to this day, if no Crime but Love cou’d have dis-inherited him.Fred.Oh, I do not use to boast of my intregues.Bell.Boast, when thou dost nothing but boast; and I dare swear, wer’t thou as Innocent from the sin of the Grape, as thou art from the Apple, thou might’st yet claim that right in Eden which our first Parents lost by too much Loving.Fred.I wish this Lady would think me so modest a man.Val.She wou’d be sorry then, and not like you half so well, and [page 73] I should be loath to break my word with you, which was, That if your Friend and mine agreed, it shou’d be a Match between you and I.[She gives him her hand.Bred.Bear witness, Colonel, ’tis a Bargain.[Kisses her hand.Blunt.I have a Pardon to beg too, but adsheartlikins I am so out of Countenance, that I’m a Dog if I can say any thing to Purpose.[To Florinda.Flor.Sir, I heartily forgive you all.Blunt.That’s nobly said, sweet Lady,—Belvile, prithee present her her Ring again; for I find I have not Courage to approach her my self.[Gives him the Ring he gives to Florinda.Enter Boy.Boy.Sir, I have brought the Father that you sent for.Bell.’Tis well, and now my dear Florinda, let’s fly to compleat that mighty joy we have so long wish’t and sigh’d for: —Come Fred.—you’l follow?Fred.Your Example Sir, ’twas ever my ambition in War, and must be so in Love.Will.And must not I see this juggling knot ty’d?Belv.No, thou shalt do us better service, and be our guard, least Don Pedro‘s suddain return interrupt the Ceremony.Will.Content—I’ll secure this pass.[Ex. Bel. Flor. Fred. and Vall.Enter Boy.Boy.Sir, there’s a Lady without wou’d speak to you.[To Will.Will.Conduct her in, I dare not quit my Post.Boy.And Sir, your Taylor waits you in your Chamber.Blunt.Some comfort yet, I shall not dance naked at the Wedding.[Ex. Blunt and Boy.Enter again the Boy, conducting in Angellica in a Masquing Habit and a Vizard. Will. runs to her.Will.This can be none but my pretty Gipsie—Oh, I see you can follow as well as fly—Come, confess thy self the most malicious Devil in Nature, you think you have done my bus’ness with Angellica.—Ang.Stand off, base Villain—[She draws a Pistol, and holds to his Brest.[page 74]Will.Hah, ’tis not she, who art thou? and what’s thy business?Ang.One thou hast injur’d, and who comes to kill thee for’t.Will.What the Devil canst thou mean?Ang.By all my hopes to kill thee—[Holds still the Pistol to his Brest, he going back, she following still.Will.Prithee on, what acquaintance? for I know thee not.Ang.

[Pulls off her Vizard.

Will.Angellica!Ang.

Will.Faith, no Child, my blood keeps its old Ebbs and Flows still, and that usual heat too, that cou’d oblige thee with a kindness, had I but opportunity.Ang.Devil! dost wanton with my pain—have at thy heart.Will.

[aside.Ang.

[Aside, turning from him.

[Follows him with the Pistol to his Brest.

Will.

Ang.

[Pausingly.Will.

Ang.

Will.

Ang.

[All this while follows him with the Pistol to his Breast.Will.

Ang.

Will.

Ang.No, faithless Man: had I repaid their Vows, as I did thine, I wou’d have kill’d the ingrateful that had abandon’d me.Will.This Old General has quite spoil’d thee, nothing makes a Woman so vain, as being flatter’d; your old Lover ever supplies the defects of Age, with intollerable Dotage, vast Charge, and that which you call Constancy; and attributing all this to your own Merits, you domineer, and throw your Favours in’s Teeth, upbraiding him still with the defects of Age, and Cuckold him as often as he deceives your Expectations. But the Gay, Young, Brisk Lover, that brings his equal Fires, and can give you dart for dart, you’l will be as nice as you sometimes.Ang.

Will.

[Offers her a Purse of Gold.Ang.

[Follows still, as before.

Will.Sure—Ang.Another word will damn thee! I’ve heard thee talk too long.Anto.Hah! Angellica![She follows him with the Pistol ready to shoot; he retires still amaz’d. Enter Don Antonio, his Arm in a Scarf, and layes hold on the Pistol.[page 77]Ang.Antonio! what Devil brought thee hither?Anto.Love and Curiosity, seeing your Coach at door.Let me disarm you of this unbecoming instrument of death—amongst the Number of your slaves, was there not one, worthy the Honour to have fought your quarrel?Takes away the Pistol.

Will.One Sir, that cou’d have made a better End of an Amorous quarrel without you, than with you.Anto.Sure ’tis some Rival,—hah—the very Man took down her Picture yesterday—the very same that set on me last night —blest opportunity—[Offers to shoot him.Ang.

Anto.

Will.Sir, I do not use to be Examin’d, and am Ill at all disputes but this—[Draws: Anton. offers to shoot.Ang.

[To Will.

Enter Don Pedro, sees Antonio, and stays.Ped.

[Aside.Anto.

Ped.

[aside.Ang.

[Pointing to Will.

[Goes out, Ant. follows, but Ped. pulls him back.Ped.

Ant.

Ped.

Anto.

Ped.

Anto.

Ped.

Ant.

[Ex. Anto.Ped.

Will.Faith, Sir, I know not what you wou’d do, but I believe the Priest within has been so kind.Ped.

Will.

Ped.

Will.Faith not at all, if you will ‘go in, and thank him for the favour he has done your Sister, so, if not, Sir, my Pow’rs greater in this house than yours, I have a damn’d surly Crew here, that will keep you till the next Tide, and then clap you on bord for Prise; my Ship lies but a League off the Molo, and we shall show your Donship a damn’d Tramontana Rovers Trick.Enter Belvile.Belv.

Ped.

Bell.

Ped.

Bel.

[page 79]Ped.

Bel.

Ped.

[Ex. Bel. with Ped.Will. goes to follow them. Enter Hellena as before in Boys Clothes, and pulls him back.Will.Ha! my Gipsie:—now a thousand blessings on thee for this kindness, Egad Child I was e’en in dispair of ever seeing thee again; my Friends are all provided for within, each Man his kind Woman.Hell.Hah! I thought they had serv’d me some such trick!Will.And I was e’en resolv’d to go aboard, and condemn my self to my lone Cabin, and the thoughts of thee.Hell.And cou’d you have left me behind, wou’d you have been so ill natur’d?Will.Whe twou’d have broke my Heart Child:—but since we are met again, I defie foul weather to part us.Hell.And wou’d you be a Faithful Friend, now if a Maid shou’d trust you?Will.For a Friend I cannot promise, thou art of a form so Excellent a Face and Humour, too good for cold dull Friendship; I am parlously afraid of being in Love Child, and you have not forgot how severely you have us’d me?Hell.That’s all one, such usage you must still look for, to find out all your Haunts, to raile at you to all that Love you, till I have made you love only me in your own defence, because no body else will love.Will.But hast thou no better quality, to recommend thy self by.Hell.Faith none Captain:—whe ’twill be the greater Charity to take me for thy Mistress. I am alone Child, a kind of Orphan Lover, and why I shou’d dye a Maid, and in a Captains hands too, I do not understand,Will.Egad, I was never claw’d away with Broad-sides from any Female before, thou hast one Vertue I Adore, good Nature; I hate a Coy demure Mistress, she’s as troublesome as a Colt, I’l break none; no give me a mad Mistress when Mew’d, and in [page 80] flying on I dare trust upon the wing, that whil’st she’s kind will come to the Lure.Hell.Nay as kind as you will good Capt. whil’st it lasts, but let’s lose no time,Will.My time’s as precious to me, as thine can be, therefore dear creature, since we are so well agreed, let’s retire to my Chamber, and if ever thou wert treated with such Savory Love!— come—my beds prepar’d for such a guest all clean and Sweet as thy fair self, I love to steal a Dish and a Bottle with a Friend, and hate long Graces—come let’s retire and fall too.Hell.’Tis but getting my consent, and the bus’ness is soon done, let but old GafferHimen and his Priest, say amen to’t, and I dare lay my Mothers daughter by as proper a Fellow as your Father’s Son, without fear or blushing,Will.Hold, hold, no Bugg words Child, Priest and Hymen, prithee add a Hang-man to ’em to make up the consort,—no, no, we’l have no Vows but Love, Child, nor witness but the Lover, the kind Deity injoyn naught but Love! and injoy! Himen and Priest wait still upon Portion, and Joynture; Love and Beauty have their own Ceremonies; Marriage is as certain a bane to Love, as lending Money is to Friendship: I’l neither ask nor give a Vow,—tho’ I cou’d be content to turn Gipsie, and become a left-handed bride-groom, to have the pleasure of working that great Miracle of making a Maid a Mother, if you durst venture; ’tis upse Gipsie that, and if I miss, I’l lose my Labour.Hell.And if you do not lose, what shall I get? a cradle full of noise and mischief, with a pack of repentance at my back? can you teach me to weave Incle to pass my time with? ’tis upse Gipsie that too.Will.I can teach thee to Weave a true loves knot better.Hell.So can my dog.Will.Well, I see we are both upon our Guards, and I see there’s no way to conquer good Nature, but by yielding,—here— give me thy hand—one kiss and I am thine—Hell.One kiss! how like my Page he speaks; I am resolv’d you shall have none, for asking such a sneaking sum,—he that will be satisfied with one kiss, will never dye of that longing; good Friend, single kiss, is all your talking come to this?—a kiss, a caudle! farewel Captain, single kiss.[Going out he stays her.Will.Nay if we part so, let me dye like a bird upon a bough, [page 81] at the Sheriffs charge, by Heaven both the Indies, shall not buy thee from me. I adore thy Humour and will marry thee, and we are so of one Humour, it must be a bargain—give me thy hand.— [Kisses her Hand. And now let the blind ones (Love and Fortune) do their worst.Hell.Whe God-a-mercy Captain!Will.But harkey—the bargain is now made; but is it not fit we shou’d know each others Names? that when we have reason to curse one another hereafter (and People ask me who ’tis I give to the Devil) I may at least be able to tell, what Family you came of.Hell.Good reason, Captain; and where I have cause, (as I doubt not but I shall have plentiful) that I may know at whom to throw my—blessings—I beseech ye your Name.Will.I am call’d Robert the Constant.Hell.A very fine name; pray was it your Faulkner or Butler that Chisten’d you? do they not use to Whistle when they call you?Will.I hope you have a better, that a man may name without crossing himself, you are so merry with mine.Hell.I am call’d Hellena the Inconstant.Enter Pedro, Belvile, Florinda, Fred. Valleria.Ped.Hah! Hellena!Florin.Hellenah!Hell.The very same—hah my Brother! now Captain shew your Love and Courage; stand to your Arms, and defend me bravely, or I am lost for Ever.Ped.What’s this I hear! false Girle, how came you hither, and what’s your bus’ness? Speak.[Goes roughly to her.Will.Hold off Sir, you have leave to parly only.Puts himself between.Hell.I had e’en as good tell it, as you guess it; Faith Brother my bus’ness, is the same with all living Creatures of my Age, to love, and be beloved, and here’s the Man.Ped.Perfidious Maid, hast thou deceiv’d me too, deceiv’d thy self and Heaven;Hell.

Ped.Belvile, I did not expect this false play from you; was’t [page 82] not enough you’d gain Florinda (which I pardon’d) but your lewd Friends too must be inricht with the spoyls of a Noble Family?Bell.Faith Sir, I am as much surpriz’d at this as you can be: Yet Sir, my Friends are Gentlemen, and ought to be Esteem’d for their Misfortunes, since they have the Glory to suffer with the best of Men and Kings; ’tis true, he’s a Rover of Fortune, Yet a Prince, aboard his little wooden World.Ped.What’s this to the maintenance of a Woman of her Birth and Quality.Will.Faith Sir, I can boast of nothing but a Sword which does me right where e’re I come, and has defended a worse Cause then a Womans; and since I lov’d her before I either knew her Birth or Name, I must pursue my resolution, and marry her.Ped.And is all your holy intent of becoming a Nun, debauch’t into a desire of Man?Hell.Whe—I have consider’d the matter Brother, and find, the Three hundred thousand Crowns my Uncle left me (and you cannot keep from me) will be better laid out in Love than in Religion, and turn to as good an account,—let most voyces carry it, for Heaven or the Captain?All cry, a Captain? a Captain?Hell.Look yee Sir, ’tis a clear case.Ped.Oh I am mad—if I refuse, my lifes in danger— [aside. —Come—there’s one motive induces me—take her— I shall now be free from fears of her Honour, guard it you now, if you can, I have been a slave to’t long enough,[gives her to him.Will.Faith Sir, I am of a Nation, that are of opinion a womans Honour is not worth guarding when she has a mind to part with it.Hell.Well said Captain.Ped.This was your Plot Mistress, but I hope you have married one that will revenge my quarrel to you—[To Valleria.Val.There’s no altering Destinie, Sir.Ped.Sooner than a Womans Will, therefore I forgive you all—and wish you may get my Father’s Pardon as Easily; which I fear.Enter Blunt drest in a Spanish Habit, looking very ridiculously; his Man a justing his Band.Man.’Tis very well Sir—Blunt.Well Sir, ‘dshearlikins I tell you ’tis damnable Ill Sir, —a Spanish habit good Lord! Cou’d the Devil and my Taylor [page 83] devise no other punishment for me, but the Mode of a Nation I abominate?Bell.What’s the matter Ned?Blunt.Pray view me round, and judge,—[Turns round.Bell.I must confess thou art a kind of an odd Figure.Blunt.In a Spanish habit with a Vengeance! I had rather be in the Inquisition for Judaisme, than in this Doublet and Breeches, a Pillory were an easie Coller, to this three handfuls high; and these Shoes too, are worse, then the stocks with the sole an Inch shorter than my Foot: In fine, Gentlemen, methinks I look altogether like a Bag of Bayes stufft full of Fooles flesh.Bell.Methinks ’tis well, and makes thee look e’n Cavalier: Come Sir, settle your face, and salute our Friends, Lady—Blunt.Hah!—say’st thou so my Little Rover— [To Hell. Lady—(if you be one) give me leave to kiss your hand, and tell you adshearlikins for all I look so, I am your humble Servant,— a Pox of my Spanish habit.Will.Hark—what’s this?[Musick is heard to play.Enter Boy.Boy.Sir, as the Custome is, the gay people in Masquerade who make every mans House their own, are coming up:Enter several Men and Women in Masquing Habits with Musick, they put themselves in order and Dance.Blunt.Adsheartlikins, wou’d twere lawful to pull off their false faces, That I might see if my Doxie were not amongst e’m.Bell.Ladies and Gentlemen, since you are come so apropo, you must take a small Collation with us.[To the Masquero’s.Will.Whilst we’le to the Good Man within, who stayes to give us a Cast of his Office. [To Hell. —Have you no trembling at the near approach?Hell.No more than you have in an Engagement or a Tempest.Will.Egad thou’rt a brave Girle, and I admire thy Love and Courage.

[Exeunt.THE END.[page ]EPILOGUE.

Post-script.This Play had been sooner in Print, but for a Report about the Town (made by some either very Malitious or very Ignorant) that ’twas Thomaso alter’d; which made the Book-sellers fear some trouble from the Proprietor of that Admirable Play, which indeed has Wit enough to stock a Poet, and is not to be peec’t or mended by any but the Excellent Author himself; That I have stoln some hints from it, may be a proof, that I valu’d it more than to pretend to alter it; had I had the Dexterity of some Poets, who are not more Expert in stealing than in the Art of Concealing, and who even that way out-do the Spartan-Boyes. I might have appropriated all to my self, but I, vainly proud of my Iudgment, hang out the Sign of Angellica, (the only stoln Object) to give Notice where a great part of the Wit dwelt; tho if the Play of the Novella were as well worth remembring as Thomaso, they might (bating the Name) have as well said, I took it from thence: I will only say the Plot and Bus’ness (not to boast on’t) is my own: as for the Words and Characters, I leave the Reader to judge and compare ’em with Thomaso, to whom I recommend the great Entertainment of reading it, tho had this succeeded ill, I shou’d have had no need of imploring that Justice from the Criticks, who are naturally so kind to any that pretend to usurp their Dominion, they wou’d doubtless have given me the whole Honour on’t. Therefore I will only say in English what the famous Virgil does in Latin; I make Verses, and others have the Fame.FINIS.