Beaumont & Fletcher's Works (2 of 10) - The Humourous Lieutenant
by
Francis Beaumont and John Fletcher
Part 1 out of 4
Produced by Jonathan Ingram, Charles M. Bidwell and the Online
Distributed Proofreading Team.
THE HUMOUROUS LIEUTENANT,
A TRAGI-COMEDY.
Persons Represented in the Play.
_King_ Antigonus, _an old Man with young desires._
Demetrius, _Son to_ Antigonus, _in love with_ Celia.
Seleucus, Lysimachus, Ptolomie, _Three Kings equal sharers with_
Antigonus _of what_ Alexander _had, with united powers opposing_
Antigonus.
Leontius, _a brave old merry Souldier, assistant_ to Demetrius.
Timon, Charinthus, Menippus, _Servants to_ Antigonus, _and his vices._
_The_ Humourous Lieutenant.
_Gentlemen, Friends and followers of_ Demetrius.
_3 Embassadors, from the three Kings.
Gentlemen-Ushers._
_Grooms._
_Citizens._
_Physicians._
_Herald._
_Magician._
_Souldiers._
_Host._
_WOMEN._
Celia _alias_ E[n]anthe, _Daughter to_ Seleucus, _Mistris to_ Demetrius.
Leucippe, _a Bawd, Agent for the King's lust._
_Ladies._
_Citizens Wives._
_Governesse to_ Celia.
_A Country-Woman._
Phoebe, _her Daughter._
_2 Servants of the game._
_The Scene_ Greece.
The principal Actors were,
_Henry Condel._
_John Lowin._
_Richard Sharpe._
_Robert Benfeild._
_Joseph Taylor._
_William Eglestone._
_John Underwood._
_Thomas Polard._
_ACTUS PRIMUS. SCENA PRIMA._
_Enter_ 2 Ushers, _and_ Grooms _with perfumes._
_1 Usher_. Round, round, perfume it round, quick, look ye
Diligently the state be right, are these the richest
Cushions? Fie, fie, who waits i'th' wardrobe?
_2 Ush_. But pray tell me, do you think for certain
These Embassadours shall have this morning audience?
_1 Ush_. They shall have it: Lord that you live at Court
And understand not! I tell you they must have it.
_2 Ush_. Upon what necessity?
_1 Ush_. Still you are out of the trick of Court, sell your place,
_Enter_ Ladies _and_ Gentlemen.
And sow your grounds, you are not for this tillage.
Madams, the best way is the upper lodgings,
There you may see at ease.
_Ladies_. We thank you, Sir. [_Ex._ Ladies, Gent.
_1 Ush._ Would you have all these slighted? who should report then,
The Embassadors were handsome men? his beard
A neat one? the fire of his eyes quicker than lightning,
And when it breaks, as blasting? his legs, though little ones,
Yet movers of a mass of understanding?
Who shall commend their Cloaths? who shall take notice
Of the most wise behaviour of their Feathers?
Ye live a raw man here.
_2 Ush._ I think I do so.
_Enter 2 citizens, and Wives._
_1 Ush._ Why, whither would ye all press?
_1 Cit._ Good Master Usher.
_2 Cit._ My wife, and some few of my honest neighbours, here.
_1 Ush._ Prethee begone thou and thy honest Neighbours,
Thou lookst like an Ass, why, whither would you fish face?
_2 Cit._ If I might have
But the honour to see you at my poor house, Sir,
A Capon bridled and sadled, I'le assure your worship,
A shoulder of Mutton and a pottle of Wine, Sir,
I know your Brother, he was like ye,
And shot the best at Buts--
_1 Ush._ A ---- upon thee.
_2 Cit._ Some Musick I'le assure you too,
My toy, Sir, can play o'th' Virginals.
_1 Ush._ Prethee good toy,
Take away thy shoulder of Mutton, it is flie-blown,
And shoulder take thy flap along, here's no place for ye;
Nay then you had best be knock'd. [_Ex. Cit._
_Enter_ Celia.
_Cel._ I wou'd fain see him,
The glory of this place makes me remember,
But dye those thoughts, dye all but my desires,
Even those to death are sick too; he's not here,
Nor how my eyes may guide me--
_1 Ush._ What's your business?
Who keeps the outward door there? here's fine shuffling,
You wastcoateer you must go back.
_Cel._ There is not,
There cannot be, six days and never see me?
There must not be desire; Sir, do you think
That if you had a Mistris--
_1 Ush._ Death, she is mad.
_Cel_. And were yourself an honest man? it cannot--
_1 Ush._ What a Devil hast thou to do with me or my honesty?
Will you be jogging, good nimble tongue,
My fellow door-keeper.
_2 Ush._ Prethee let her alone,
_1 Ush._ The King is coming,
And shall we have an agent from the Suburbs
Come to crave audience too?
_Cel._ Before I thought ye
To have a little breeding, some tang of Gentry;
But now I take ye plainly,
Without the help of any perspective,
For that ye cannot alter.
_1 Ush._ What's that?
_Cel._ An Ass, Sir, you bray as like one,
And by my troth, me thinks as ye stand now,
Considering who to kick next, you appear to me
Just with that kind of gravity, and wisdom;
Your place may bear the name of Gentleman,
But if ever any of that butter stick to your bread--
_2 Ush._ You must be modester.
_Cel._ Let him use me nobler,
And wear good Cloaths to do good Offices;
They hang upon a fellow of his vertue,
As though they hung on Gibbets.
_2 Ush._ A perillous wench.
_1 Ush._ Thrust her into a corner, I'le no more on her.
_2 Ush._ You have enough, go pretty Maid, stand close,
And use that little tongue, with a little more temper.
_Cel._ I thank ye, Sir.
_2 Ush._ When the show's past,
I'le have ye into the Cellar, there we'll dine.
A very pretty wench, a witty Rogue,
And there we'll be as merry; can ye be merry?
_Cel._ O very merry.
_2 Ush._ Only our selves; this churlish fellow shall not know.
_Cel._ By no means.
_2 Ush._ And can you love a little?
_Cel._ Love exceedingly:
I have cause to love you, dear Sir.
_2 Ush._ Then I'le carry ye,
And shew you all the pictures, and the hangings,
The Lodgings, Gardens, and the walks: and then, sweet,
You shall tell me where you lye.
_Cel._ Yes marry will I.
_2 Ush._ And't shall go hard but I'le send ye a Venison Pasty,
And bring a bottle of wine along.
_1 Ush._ Make room there,
_2 Ush._ Room there afore; stand close, the train is coming.
_Enter King_ Antigonus, Timon, Charinthus, Menippus.
_Cel._ Have I yet left a beauty to catch fools?
Yet, yet, I see him not. O what a misery
Is love, expected long, deluded longer!
_Ant._ Conduct in the Embassadors.
_1 Ush._ Make room there.
_Ant._ They shall not wait long answer-- [_Flourish._
_Cle._ Yet he comes not.
_Enter_ 3 _Embassadors._
Why are eyes set on these, and multitudes
Follow to make these wonders? O good gods!
What would these look like if my love were here?
But I am fond, forgetful.
_Ant._ Now your grievance,
Speak short, and have as short dispatch.
_1 Emb._ Then thus, Sir:
In all our Royal Masters names, We tell you,
Ye have done injustice, broke the bonds of concord,
And from their equal shares, from _Alexander_
Parted, and so possess'd, not like a Brother,
But as an open Enemy, Ye have hedged in
Whole Provinces, man'd and maintain'd these injuries;
And daily with your sword (though they still honour ye)
Make bloudy inroads, take Towns, and ruin Castles,
And still their sufFerance feels the weight.
_2 Em._ Think of that love, great Sir, that honor'd friendship
Your self held with our Masters, think of that strength
When you were all one body, all one mind;
When all your swords struck one way, when your angers,
Like so many brother Billows rose together,
And curling up your foaming Crests, defied
Even mighty Kings, and in their falls entomb'd 'em;
O think of these; and you that have been Conquerours,
That ever led your Fortunes open ey'd,
Chain'd fast by confidence; you that fame courted,
Now ye want Enemies and men to match ye,
Let not your own Swords seek your ends to shame ye.
_Enter_ Demetrius _with a Javelin, and Gentlemen._
_3 Em._ Choose which you will, or Peace or War,
We come prepar'd for either.
_1 Ush._ Room for the Prince there.
_Cel._ Was it the Prince they said? how my heart trembled!
'Tis he indeed; what a sweet noble fierceness
Dwells in his eyes! young _Meleager_ like,
When he return'd from slaughter of the Boar,
Crown'd with the loves and honours of the people,
With all the gallant youth of _Greece_, he looks now,
Who could deny him love?
_Dem._ Hail Royal Father.
_Ant._ Ye are welcome from your sport, Sir, do you see this Gent.
You that bring Thunders in your mouths, and Earthquakes
To shake and totter my designs? can you imagine
(You men of poor and common apprehensions)
While I admit this man, my Son, this nature
That in one look carries more fire, and fierceness,
Than all your Masters in their lives; dare I admit him,
Admit him thus, even to my side, my bosom,
When he is fit to rule, when all men cry him,
And all hopes hang about his head; thus place him,
His weapon hatched in bloud, all these attending
When he shall make their fortunes, all as sudden
In any expedition he shall point 'em,
As arrows from a Tartars bow, and speeding,
Dare I do this, and fear an enemy?
Fear your great Master? yours? or yours?
_Dem._ O _Hercules_!
Who saies you do, Sir? Is there any thing
In these mens faces, or their Masters actions,
Able to work such wonders?
_Cel._ Now he speaks:
O I could dwell upon that tongue for ever.
_Dem._ You call 'em Kings, they never wore those Royalties,
Nor in the progress of their lives arriv'd yet
At any thought of King: Imperial dignities,
And powerful God-like actions, fit for Princes
They can no more put on, and make 'em sit right,
Than I can with this mortal hand hold Heaven:
Poor petty men, nor have I yet forgot
The chiefest honours time, and merit gave 'em:
_Lisimachus_ your Master, at the best,
His highest, and his hopeful'st Dignities
Was but grand-master of the _Elephants_;
_Seleuchus_ of the Treasure; and for _Ptolomey_,
A thing not thought on then, scarce heard of yet,
Some Master of Ammunition: and must these men--
_Cel._ What a brave confidence flows from his spirit!
O sweet young man!
_Dem._ Must these, hold pace with us,
And on the same file hang their memories?
Must these examine what the wills of Kings are?
Prescribe to their designs, and chain their actions
To their restraints? be friends, and foes when they please?
Send out their Thunders, and their menaces,
As if the fate of mortal things were theirs?
Go home good men, and tell your Masters from us,
We do 'em too much honour to force from 'em
Their barren Countries, ruin their vast Cities,
And tell 'em out of love, we mean to leave 'em
(Since they will needs be Kings) no more to tread on,
Than they have able wits, and powers to manage,
And so we shall befriend 'em. Ha! what does she there?
_Emb._ This is your answer King?
_Ant._ 'Tis like to prove so.
_Dem._ Fie, sweet, what makes you here?
_Cel._ Pray ye do not chide me.
_Dem._ You do your self much wrong and me.
I feel my fault which only was committed
Through my dear love to you: I have not seen ye,
And how can I live then? I have not spoke to ye--
_Dem._ I know this week ye have not; I will redeem all.
You are so tender now; think where you are, sweet.
_Cel._ What other light have I left?
_Dem._ Prethee _Celia_,
Indeed I'le see you presently.
_Cel._ I have done, Sir:
You will not miss?
_Dem._ By this, and this, I will not.
_Cel._ 'Tis in your will and I must be obedient.
_Dem._ No more of these assemblies.
_Cel._ I am commanded.
_1 Ush._ Room for the Lady there: Madam, my service--
_1 Gent._ My Coach an't please you Lady.
_2 Ush._ Room before there.
_2 Gent._ The honour, Madam, but to wait upon you--
My servants and my state.
_Cel._ Lord, how they flock now!
Before I was afraid they would have beat me;
How these flies play i'th' Sun-shine! pray ye no services,
Or if ye needs must play the Hobby-horses,
Seek out some beauty that affects 'em: farewel,
Nay pray ye spare: Gentlemen I am old enough
To go alone at these years, without crutches. [_Exit._
_2 Ush._ Well I could curse now: but that will not help me,
I made as sure account of this wench now, immediately,
Do but consider how the Devil has crost me,
Meat for my Master she cries, well--
_3 Em._ Once more, Sir,
We ask your resolutions: Peace or War yet?
_Dem._ War, War, my noble Father.
_1 Em._ Thus I fling it:
And fair ey'd peace, farewel.
_Ant._ You have your answer;
Conduct out the Embassadours, and give 'em Convoyes.
_Dem._ Tell your high hearted Masters, they shall not seek us,
Nor cool i'th' field in expectation of us,
We'l ease your men those marches: In their strengths,
And full abilities of mind and courage,
We'l find 'em out, and at their best trim buckle with 'em.
_3 Em._ You will find so hot a Souldier's welcome, Sir,
Your favour shall not freeze.
_2 Em._ A forward Gentleman,
Pity the Wars should bruise such hopes--
_Ant._ Conduct em-- [_Ex._ Em.
Now, for this preparation: where's _Leontius_?
Call him in presently: for I mean in person Gentlemen
My self, with my old fortune--
_Dem._ Royal Sir:
Thus low I beg this honour: fame already
Hath every where rais'd Trophies to your glory,
And conquest now grown old, and weak with following
The weary marches and the bloody shocks
You daily set her in: 'tis now scarce honour
For you that never knew to fight, but conquer,
To sparkle such poor people: the Royal Eagle
When she hath tri'd [h]er young ones 'gainst the Sun,
And found 'em right; next teacheth 'em to prey,
How to command on wing, and check below her
Even Birds of noble plume; I am your own, Sir,
You have found my spirit, try it now, and teach it
To stoop whole Kingdoms: leave a little for me:
Let not your glory be so greedy, Sir,
To eat up all my hopes; you gave me life,
If to that life you add not what's more lasting
A noble name, for man, you have made a shadow:
Bless me this day: bid me go on, and lead,
Bid me go on, no less fear'd, than _Antigonus_,
And to my maiden sword, tye fast your fortune:
I know 'twill fight it self then: dear Sir, honour me:
Never fair Virgin long'd so.
_Ant._ Rise, and command then,
And be as fortunate, as I expect ye:
I love that noble will; your young companions
Bred up and foster'd with ye, I hope _Demetrius_,
You will make souldiers too: they must not leave ye.
_Enter_ Leontius.
_2 Gent._ Never till life leave us, Sir.
_Ant._ O _Leontius_,
Here's work for you in hand.
_Leon._ I am ev'n right glad, Sir.
For by my troth, I am now grown old with idleness;
I hear we shall abroad, Sir.
_Ant._ Yes, and presently,
But who think you commands now?
_Leon._ Who commands, Sir?
Methinks mine eye should guide me: can there be
(If you your self will spare him so much honour)
Any found out to lead before your Armies,
So full of faith, and fire, as brave _Demetrius_?
King _Philips_ Son, at his years was an old Souldier,
'Tis time his Fortune be o' wing, high time, Sir,
So many idle hours, as here he loyters,
So many ever-living names he loses,
I hope 'tis he.
_Ant._ 'Tis he indeed, and nobly
He shall set forward: draw you all those Garrisons
Upon the frontiers as you pass: to those
Joyn these in pay at home, our ancient souldiers,
And as you go press all the Provinces.
_Leo._ We shall not [need];
Believe, this hopefull Gentleman
Can want no swords, nor honest hearts to follow him,
We shall be full, no fear Sir.
_Ant._ You _Leontius_,
Because you are an old and faithfull servant,
And know the wars, with all his vantages,
Be near to his instructions, lest his youth
Lose valours best companion, staid discretion,
Shew where to lead, to lodge, to charge with safetie;
In execution not to break, nor scatter,
But with a provident anger, follow nobly:
Not covetous of blood, and death, but honour,
Be ever near his watches; cheer his labours,
And where his hope stands fair, provoke his valour;
Love him, and think it no dishonour (my _Demetrius_)
To wear this Jewel near thee; he is a tri'd one,
And one that even in spight of time, that sunk him,
And frosted up his strength, will yet stand by thee,
And with the proudest of thine Enemies
Exchange for bloud, and bravely: take his Counsel.
_Leo._ Your grace hath made me young again, and wanton.
_Ant._ She must be known and suddenly:
Do ye know her? [_to Minippus._
_Gent. Char._ No, believe Sir.
_Ant._ Did you observe her, _Timon_?
_Tim_. I look'd on her,
But what she is--
_Ant_. I must have that found.
Come in and take your leave.
_Tim._ And some few Prayers along.
_Dem._ I know my duty, [_Exit_ Ant.
You shall be half my Father.
_Leo._ All your Servant:
Come Gentlemen, you are resolv'd I am sure
To see these wars.
_1 Gent._ We dare not leave his fortunes,
Though most assur'd death hung round about us.
_Leo._.= That bargain's yet to make;
Be not too hasty, when ye face the Enemie,
Nor too ambitious to get honour instantly,
But charge within your bounds, and keep close bodies,
And you shall see what sport we'l make these mad-caps;
You shall have game enough, I warrant ye,
Every mans Cock shall fight.
_Dem._ I must go see Sir:
Brave Sir, as soon as I have taken leave,
I'le meet you in the park;
Draw the men thither,
Wait you upon _Leontius_.
_Gen._ We'l attend Sir.
_Leo._ But I beseech your Grace, with speed; the sooner
We are i'th' field.--
_Dem._ You could not please me better. [_Exit_.
_Leo._ You never saw the wars yet?
_Gent._ Not yet Colonel.
_Leo._ These foolish Mistresses do so hang about ye,
So whimper, and so hug, I know it Gentlemen,
And so intice ye, now ye are i'th' bud;
And that sweet tilting war, with eyes and kisses,
Th' alarms of soft vows, and sighs, and fiddle faddles,
Spoils all our trade: you must forget these knick knacks,
A woman at some time of year, I grant ye
She is necessarie; but make no business of her.
How now Lieutenant?
_Enter_ Lieutenant.
_Lieu._ Oh Sir, as ill as ever;
We shall have wars they say; they are mustring yonder:
Would we were at it once: fie, how it plagues me.
_Leo._ Here's one has served now under Captain _Cupid_,
And crackt a Pike in's youth: you see what's come on't.
_Lieu._ No, my disease will never prove so honourable.
_Leo._ Why sure, thou hast the best pox.
_Lieu._ If I have 'em,
I am sure I got 'em in the best company;
They are pox of thirty Coats.
_Leo._ Thou hast mewed 'em finely:
Here's a strange fellow now, and a brave fellow,
If we may say so of a pocky fellow,
(Which I believe we may) this poor Lieutenant;
Whether he have the scratches, or the scabs,
Or what a Devil it be, I'le say this for him,
There fights no braver souldier under Sun, Gentlemen;
Show him an Enemie, his pain's forgot straight;
And where other men by beds and bathes have ease,
And easie rules of Physick; set him in a danger,
A danger, that's a fearfull one indeed,
Ye rock him, and he will so play about ye,
Let it be ten to one he ne'er comes off again,
Ye have his heart: and then he works it bravely,
And throughly bravely: not a pang remembre'd:
I have seen him do such things, belief would shrink at.
_Gent._ 'Tis strange he should do all this, and diseas'd so.
_Leo._ I am sure 'tis true: Lieutenant, canst thou drink well?
_Lieu._ Would I were drunk, dog-drunk, I might not feel this backward?
_Gent._ I would take Physick.
_Lieu._ But I would know my disease first.
_Leon._ Why? it may be the Colique: canst thou blow
_Lieu._ There's never a bag-pipe in the Kingdom better.
_Gent._ Is't not a pleuresie?
_Lieu._ 'Tis any thing
That has the Devil, and death in't: will ye march Gentlemen?
The Prince has taken leave.
_Leo._ How know ye that?
_Lieu._ I saw him leave the Court, dispatch his followers,
And met him after in a by street: I think
He has some wench, or such a toy, to lick over
Before he go: would I had such another
To draw this foolish pain down.
_Leo._ Let's away Gentlemen,
For sure the Prince will stay on us.
_Gent._ We'l attend Sir. [Exeunt.
_SCENA II._
_Enter_ Demetrius, _and_ Celia.
_Cel_. Must ye needs go?
_Dem_. Or stay with all dishonour.
_Cel_. Are there not men enough to fight?
_Dem_. Fie _Celia_.
This ill becomes the noble love you bear me;
Would you have your love a coward?
_Cel_. No; believe Sir,
I would have him fight, but not so far off from me.
_Dem_. Wouldst have it thus? or thus?
_Cel_. If that be fighting--
_Dem_. Ye wanton fool: when I come home again
I'le fight with thee, at thine own weapon _Celia_,
And conquer thee too.
_Cel_. That you have done already,
You need no other Arms to me, but these Sir;
But will you fight your self Sir?
_Dem_. Thus deep in bloud wench,
And through the thickest ranks of Pikes.
_Cel_. Spur bravely
Your firie Courser, beat the troops before ye,
And cramb the mouth of death with executions.
_Dem_. I would do more than these: But prethee tell me,
Tell me my fair, where got'st thou this male Spirit?
I wonder at thy mind.
_Cel_. Were I a man then,
You would wonder more.
_Dem_. Sure thou wouldst prove a Souldier,
And some great Leader.
_Cel_. Sure I should do somewhat;
And the first thing I did, I should grow envious,
Extreamly envious of your youth, and honour.
_Dem_. And fight against me?
_Cel_. Ten to one, I should do it.
_Dem_. Thou wouldst not hurt me?
_Cel_. In this mind I am in
I think I should be hardly brought to strike ye,
Unless 'twere thus; but in my mans mind--
_Dem_. What?
_Cel_. I should be friends with you too,
Now I think better.
_Dem_. Ye are a tall Souldier:
Here, take these, and these;
This gold to furnish ye, and keep this bracelet;
Why do you weep now?
You a masculine Spirit?
_Cel_. No, I confess, I am a fool, a woman:
And ever when I part with you--
_Dem_. You shall not,
These tears are like prodigious signs, my sweet one,
I shall come back, loaden with fame, to honour thee.
_Cel_. I hope you shall:
But then my dear _Demetrius_,
When you stand Conquerour, and at your mercy
All people bow, and all things wait your sentence;
Say then your eye (surveying all your conquest)
Finds out a beautie, even in sorrow excellent,
A constant face, that in the midst of ruine
With a forc'd smile, both scorns at fate, and fortune:
Say you find such a one, so nobly fortified,
And in her figure all the sweets of nature?
_Dem_. Prethee,
No more of this, I cannot find her.
_Cel_. That shews as far beyond my wither'd beauty;
And will run mad to love ye too.
_Dem_. Do you fear me,
And do you think, besides this face, this beauty,
This heart, where all my hopes are lock'd--
_Cel_. I dare not:
No sure, I think ye honest; wondrous honest.
Pray do not frown, I'le swear ye are.
_Dem_. Ye may choose.
_Cel_. But how long will ye be away?
_Dem_. I know not.
_Cel_. I know you are angry now: pray look upon me:
I'le ask no more such questions.
_Dem_. The Drums beat,
I can no longer stay.
_Cel_. They do but call yet:
How fain you would leave my Company?
_Dem_. I wou'd not,
Unless a greater power than love commanded,
Commands my life, mine honour.
_Cel_. But a little.
_Dem_. Prethee farewel, and be not doubtfull of me.
_Cel_. I would not have ye hurt: and ye are so ventrous--
But good sweet Prince preserve your self, fight nobly,
But do not thrust this body, 'tis not yours now,
'Tis mine, 'tis only mine: do not seek wounds, Sir,
For every drop of blood you bleed--
_Dem_. I will _Celia_,
I will be carefull.
_Cel_. My heart, that loves ye dearly.
_Dem_. Prethee no more, we must part: [_Drums a March._
Hark, they march now.
_Cel_. Pox on these bawling Drums: I am sure you'l kiss me,
But one kiss? what a parting's this?
_Dem_. Here take me,
And do what thou wilt with me, smother me;
But still remember, if your fooling with me,
Make me forget the trust--
_Cel_. I have done: farewel Sir,
Never look back, you shall not stay, not a minute.
_Dem_. I must have one farewel more.
_Cel_. No, the Drums beat;
I dare not slack your honour; not a hand more,
Only this look; the gods preserve, and save ye.
_ACTUS SECUNDUS. SCENA PRIMA._
_Enter_ Antigonus, Carinthus, Timon.
_Ant_. What, have ye found her out?
_Char_. We have hearkned after her.
_Ant_. What's that to my desire?
_Char_. Your grace must give us time,
And a little means.
_Tim_. She is sure a stranger,
If she were bred or known here--
_Ant_. Your dull endeavours _Enter_ Menippus.
Should never be employ'd. Welcom _Menippus_.
_Men_. I have found her Sir,
I mean the place she is lodg'd in; her name is _Celia_,
And much adoe I had to purchase that too.
_Ant_. Dost think _Demetrius_ loves her?
_Men_. Much I fear it,
But nothing that way yet can win for certain.
I'le tell your grace within this hour.
_Ant_. A stranger?
_Men_. Without all doubt.
_Ant_. But how should he come to her?
_Men_. There lies the marrow of the matter hid yet.
_Ant_. Hast thou been with thy wife?
_Men_. No Sir, I am going to her.
_Ant_. Go and dispatch, and meet me in the garden,
And get all out ye can. [_Exit._
_Men_. I'le doe my best Sir. [_Exit._
_Tim._ Blest be thy wife, thou wert an arrant ass else.
_Char_. I, she is a stirring woman indeed:
There's a brain Brother.
_Tim_. There's not a handsom wench of any mettle
Within an hundred miles, but her intelligence
Reaches her, and out-reaches her, and brings her
As confidently to Court, as to a sanctuary:
What had his mouldy brains ever arriv'd at,
Had not she beaten it out o'th' Flint to fasten him?
They say she keeps an office of Concealments:
There is no young wench, let her be a Saint,
Unless she live i'th' Center, but she finds her,
And every way prepares addresses to her:
If my wife would have followed her course _Charinthus_,
Her lucky course, I had the day before him:
O what might I have been by this time, Brother?
But she (forsooth) when I put these things to her,
These things of honest thrift, groans, O my conscience,
The load upon my conscience, when to make us cuckolds,
They have no more burthen than a brood-[goose], Brother;
But let's doe what we can, though this wench fail us,
Another of a new way will be lookt at:
Come, let's abroad, and beat our brains, time may
For all his wisdom, yet give us a day. [_Exeunt_.
_SCENA II._
Drum _within, Alarm, Enter_ Demetrius, _and_ Leontius.
_Dem_. I will not see 'em fall thus, give me way Sir,
I shall forget you love me else.
_Leo_. Will ye lose all?
For me to be forgotten, to be hated,
Nay never to have been a man, is nothing,
So you, and those we have preserv'd from slaughter
Come safely off.
_Dem_. I have lost my self.
_Leo_. You are cozen'd.
_Dem_. And am most miserable.
_Leo_. There's no man so, but he that makes himself so.
_Dem_. I will goe on.
_Leo_. You must not: I shall tell you then,
And tell you true, that man's unfit to govern,
That cannot guide himself: you lead an Army?
That have not so much manly suff'rance left ye,
To bear a loss?
_Dem_. Charge but once more _Leontius_,
My friends and my companions are engag'd all.
_Leo_. Nay give 'em lost, I saw 'em off their horses,
And the enemy master of their Arms; nor could then
The policie, nor strength of man redeem 'em.
_Dem_. And shall I know this, and stand fooling?
_Leo_. By my dead Fathers soul you stir not, Sir,
Or if you doe, you make your way through me first.
_Dem_. Thou art a Coward.
_Leo_. To prevent a Madman.
None but your Fathers Son, durst call me so,
'Death if he did--Must I be scandal'd by ye,
That hedg'd in all the helps I had to save ye?
That, where there was a valiant weapon stirring,
Both search'd it out, and singl'd it, unedg'd it,
For fear it should bite you, am I a coward?
Go, get ye up, and tell 'em ye are the Kings Son;
Hang all your Ladys favours on your Crest,
And let them fight their shares; spur to destruction,
You cannot miss the way: be bravely desperate,
And your young friends before ye, that lost this battel,
Your honourable friends, that knew no order,
Cry out, _Antigonus_, the old _Antigonus_,
The wise and fortunate _Antigonus_,
The great, the valiant, and the fear'd _Antigonus_,
Has sent a desperate son, without discretion
To bury in an hour his age of honour.
_Dem_. I am ashamed.
_Leo_. 'Tis ten to one, I die with ye:
The coward will not long be after ye;
I scorn to say I saw you fall, sigh for ye,
And tell a whining tale, some ten years after
To boyes and girles in an old chimney corner,
Of what a Prince we had, how bravely spirited;
How young and fair he fell: we'l all go with ye,
And ye shall see us all, like sacrifices
In our best trim, fill up the mouth of ruine.
Will this faith satisfie your folly? can this show ye
'Tis not to die we fear, but to die poorly,
To fall, forgotten, in a multitude?
If you will needs tempt fortune now she has held ye,
Held ye from sinking up.
_Dem_. Pray do not kill me,
These words pierce deeper than the wounds I suffer,
The smarting wounds of loss.
_Leo_. Ye are too tender;
Fortune has hours of loss, and hours of honour,
And the most valiant feel them both: take comfort,
The next is ours, I have a soul descries it:
The angry bull never goes back for breath
But when he means to arm his fury double.
Let this day set, but not the memorie,
And we shall find a time: How now Lieutenant?
_Enter_ Lieutenant.
_Lieu_. I know not: I am mall'd: we are bravely beaten,
All our young gallants lost.
_Leo_. Thou art hurt.
_Lieu_. I am pepper'd,
I was i'th' midst of all: and bang'd of all hands:
They made an anvile of my head, it rings yet;
Never so thresh'd: do you call this fame? I have fam'd it;
I have got immortal fame, but I'le no more on't;
I'le no such scratching Saint to serve hereafter;
O' my conscience I was kill'd above twenty times,
And yet I know not what a Devil's in't,
I crawled away, and lived again still; I am hurt plaguily,
But now I have nothing near so much pain Colonel,
They have sliced me for that maladie.
_Dem_. All the young men lost?
_Lie_. I am glad you are here: but they are all i'th' pound sir,
They'l never ride o're other mens corn again, I take it,
Such frisking, and such flaunting with their feathers,
And such careering with their Mistres favours;
And here must he be pricking out for honour,
And there got he a knock, and down goes pilgarlick,
Commends his soul to his she-saint, and _Exit_.
Another spurs in there, cryes make room villains,
I am a Lord, scarce spoken, but with reverence
A Rascal takes him o're the face, and fells him;
There lyes the Lord, the Lord be with him.
_Leo_. Now Sir,
Do you find this truth?
_Dem_. I would not.
_Lieu_. Pox upon it,
They have such tender bodies too; such Culisses,
That one good handsom blow breaks 'em a pieces.
_Leo_. How stands the Enemy?
_Lieu_. Even cool enough too:
For to say truth he has been shrewdly heated,
The Gentleman no doubt will fall to his jewlips.
_Leo_. He marches not i'th' tail on's.
_Lieu_. No, plague take him,
He'l kiss our tails as soon; he looks upon us,
As if he would say, if ye will turn again, friends,
We will belabor you a little better,
And beat a little more care into your coxcombs.
Now shall we have damnable Ballads out against us,
Most wicked madrigals: and ten to one, Colonel,
Sung to such lowsie, lamentable tunes.
_Leo_. Thou art merry,
How e're the game goes: good Sir be not troubled,
A better day will draw this back again.
Pray go, and cheer those left, and lead 'em off,
They are hot, and weary.
_Dem_. I'le doe any thing.
_Leo_. Lieutenant, send one presently away
To th' King, and let him know our state: and hark ye,
Be sure the messenger advise his Majestie
To comfort up the Prince: he's full of sadness.
_Lieu_. When shall I get a Surgeon? this hot weather,
Unless I be well pepper'd, I shall stink, Colonel.
_Leo_. Go, I'le prepare thee one.
_Lieu_. If ye catch me then,
Fighting again, I'le eat hay with a horse. [_Exit_.
_SCENA III._
_Enter_ Leucippe _(reading) and two Maids at a Table writing._
_Leu_. Have ye written to _Merione_?
_1 Ma_. Yes, Madam.
_Leu_. And let her understand the hopes she has,
If she come speedilie--
_1 Ma_. All these are specified.
_Leu_. And of the chain is sent her,
And the rich stuff to make her shew more handsom here?
_1 Maid_. All this is done, Madam.
_Leu_. What have you dispatcht there?
_2 Maid_. A letter to the Country maid, and't please ye.
_Leu_. A pretty girle, but peevish, plaguy peevish:
Have ye bought the embroydered gloves, and that purse for her,
And the new Curle?
_2 Maid_. They are ready packt up Madam.
_Leu_. Her maiden-head will yield me; let me see now;
She is not fifteen they say: for her complexion--
_Cloe, Cloe, Cloe,_ here, I have her,
_Cloe_, the Daughter of a Country Gentleman;
Her age upon fifteen: now her complexion,
A lovely brown; here 'tis; eyes black and rolling,
The body neatly built: she strikes a Lute well,
Sings most inticingly, these helps consider'd,
Her maiden-head will amount to some three hundred,
Or three hundred and fifty Crowns, 'twill bear it handsomly.
Her Father's poor, some little share deducted,
To buy him a hunting Nag; I, 'twill be pretty.
Who takes care of the Merchants Wife?
_1 Ma_. I have wrought her.
_Leu_. You know for whom she is?
_1 Ma_. Very well, Madam,
Though very much ado I had to make her
Apprehend that happiness.
_Leu_. These Kind are subtile;
Did she not cry and blubber when you urg'd her?
_1 Ma_. O most extreamly, and swore she would rather perish.
_Leu_. Good signs, very good signs,
Symptoms of easie nature.
Had she the Plate?
_1 Ma_. She lookt upon't, and left it,
And turn'd again, and view'd it.
_Leu_. Very well still.
_1 Ma_. At length she was content to let it lye there,
Till I call'd for't, or so.
_Leu_. She will come?
_1 Ma_. Do you take me
For such a Fool, I would part without that promise?
_Leu_. The Chamber's next the Park.
_1 Ma_. The Widow, Madam,
You bad me look upon.
_Leu_. Hang her, she is musty:
She is no mans meat; besides, she's poor and sluttish:
Where lyes old _Thisbe_ now, you are so long now--
_2 Ma_. _Thisbe, Thisbe, Thisbe,_ agent _Thisbe_, O I have her,
She lyes now in _Nicopolis_.
_Leu_. Dispatch a Packet,
And tell her, her Superiour here commands her
The next month not to fail, but see deliver'd
Here to our use, some twenty young and handsom,
As also able Maids, for the Court service,
As she will answer it: we are out of beauty,
Utterly out, and rub the time away here
With such blown stuff, I am asham'd to send it. [_Knock within_
Who's that? look out, to your business, Maid,
There's nothing got by idleness: there is a Lady,
Which if I can but buckle with, _Altea_,
_A, A, A, A, Altea_ young, and married,
And a great lover of her husband, well,
Not to be brought to Court! say ye so? I am sorry,
The Court shall be brought to you then; how now, who is't?
_1 Ma_. An ancient woman, with a maid attending,
A pretty Girl, but out of Cloaths; for a little money,
It seems she would put her to your bringing up, Madam.
_Enter_ Woman _and_ Phebe.
_Leu_. Let her come in. Would you ought with us, good woman?
I pray be short, we are full of business.
_Wo_. I have a tender Girl here, an't please your honour.
_Leu_. Very well.
_Wom_. That hath a great desire to serve your worship.
_Leu_. It may be so; I am full of Maids.
_Wom_. She is young forsooth--
And for her truth; and as they say her bearing.
_Leu_. Ye say well; come ye hither maid, let me feel your pulse,
'Tis somewhat weak, but Nature will grow stronger,
Let me see your leg, she treads but low i'th' Pasterns.
_Wom_. A cork Heel, Madam.
_Leu_, We know what will do it,
Without your aim, good woman; what do you pitch her at?
She's but a slight toy--cannot hold out long.
_Wom_. Even what you think is meet.
_Leu_. Give her ten Crowns, we are full of business,
She is a poor Woman, let her take a Cheese home.
Enter the wench i' th' Office. [_Ex. Wom. and 1 Ma._
_2 Ma_. What's your name, Sister?
_Phe_. _Phebe_, forsooth.
_Leu_. A pretty name; 'twill do well:
Go in, and let the other Maid instruct you, _Phebe_. [_Ex. Phe._
Let my old Velvet skirt be made fit for her.
I'll put her into action for a Wast-coat;
And when I have rigg'd her up once, this small Pinnace
Shall sail for Gold, and good store too; who's there? [_Knock within_
Lord, shall we never have any ease in this world!
Still troubled! still molested! what would you have? _Enter_ Menipp[us].
I cannot furnish you faster than I am able,
And ye were my Husband a thousand times, I cannot do it.
At least a dozen posts are gone this morning
For several parts of the Kingdom: I can do no more
But pay 'em, and instruct 'em.
_Men_. Prithee, good sweet heart,
I come not to disturb thee, nor discourage thee,
I know thou labour'st truly: hark in thine ear.
_Leu_. Ha!
What do you make so dainty on't? look there
I am an Ass, I can do nothing.
_Men_. _Celia_?
I, this is she; a stranger born.
_Leu_. What would you give for more now?
_Men_. Prithee, my best _Leucippe_, there's much hangs on't,
Lodg'd at the end of _Mars_'s street? that's true too;
At the sack of such a Town, by such a Souldier
Preserv'd a Prisoner: and by Prince _Demetrius_
Bought from that man again, maintain'd and favour'd:
How came you by this knowledg?
_Leu_. Poor, weak man,
I have a thousand eyes, when thou art sleeping,
Abroad, and full of business.
_Men_. You never try'd her?
_Leu_. No, she is beyond my level; so hedg'd in
By the Princes infinite Love and Favour to her--
_Men_. She is a handsome Wench.
_Leu_. A delicate, and knows it;
And out of that proof arms her self.
_Men_. Come in then;
I have a great design from the King to you,
And you must work like wax now.
_Leu_. On this Lady?
_Men_. On this, and all your wits call home.
_Leu_. I have done
Toys in my time of some note; old as I am,
I think my brains will work without barm;
Take up the Books.
_Men_. As we go in, I'le tell ye. [_Exeunt_.
_SCENA IV._
_Enter_ Antigonus, Timon, Lords _and a_ Souldier.
_Ant_. No face of sorrow for this loss, 'twill choak him,
Nor no man miss a friend, I know his nature
So deep imprest with grief, for what he has suffer'd,
That the least adding to it adds to his ruine;
His loss is not so infinite, I hope, Souldier.
_Soul_. Faith neither great, nor out of indiscretion.
The young men out of heat.
_Enter_ Demetrius, Leontius, _and_ Lieutenant.
_Ant_. I guess the manner.
_Lord_. The Prince and't like your Grace.
_Ant_. You are welcome home, Sir:
Come, no more sorrow, I have heard your fortune,
And I my self have try'd the like: clear up man,
I will not have ye take it thus; if I doubted
Your fear had lost, and that you had turn'd your back to 'em,
Basely besought their mercies--
_Leo_. No, no, by this hand, Sir,
We fought like honest and tall men.
_Antig_. I know't _Leontius_: or if I thought
Neglect of rule, having his counsel with ye,
Or too vain-glorious appetite of Fame,
Your men forgot and scatter'd.
_Leo_. None of these, Sir,
He shew'd himself a noble Gentleman,
Every way apt to rule.
_Ant_. These being granted;
Why should you think you have done an act so hainous,
That nought but discontent dwells round about ye?
I have lost a Battel.
_Leo_. I, and fought it hard too.
_Ant_. With as much means as man--
_Leo_. Or Devil could urge it.
_Ant_. Twenty to one of our side now.
_Leo_. Turn Tables,
Beaten like Dogs again, like Owls, you take it
To heart for flying but a mile before 'em;
And to say the truth, 'twas no flight neither, Sir,
'Twas but a walk, a handsome walk,
I have tumbl'd with this old Body, beaten like a Stock-fish,
And stuck with Arrows, like an arming Quiver,
Blouded and bang'd almost a day before 'em,
And glad I have got off then. Here's a mad Shaver,
He fights his share I am sure, when e'r he comes to't;
Yet I have seen him trip it tithly too,
And cry the Devil take the hindmost ever.
_Lieu_. I learnt it of my Betters.
_Leo_. Boudge at this?
_Ant_. Has Fortune but one Face?
_Lieu_. In her best Vizard
Methinks she looks but lowzily.
_Ant_. Chance, though she faint now,
And sink below our expectations,
Is there no hope left strong enough to buoy her?
_Dem_. 'Tis not, this day I fled before the Enemy,
And lost my People, left mine Honour murder'd,
My maiden Honour, never to be ransom'd,
(Which to a noble Soul is too too sensible)
Afflicts me with this sadness; most of these,
Time may turn straight again, experience perfect,
And new Swords cut new ways to nobler Fortunes.
O I have lost--
_Ant_. As you are mine forget it:
I do not think it loss.
_Dem_. O Sir, forgive me,
I have lost my friends, those worthy Souls bred with me,
I have lost my self, they were the pieces of me:
I have lost all Arts, my Schools are taken from me,
Honour and Arms, no emulation left me:
I liv'd to see these men lost, look'd upon it:
These men that twin'd their loves to mine, their vertues;
O shame of shames! I saw and could not save 'em,
This carries Sulphur in't, this burns, and boils me,
And like a fatal Tomb, bestrides my memory.
_Ant_. This was hard fortune, but if alive, and taken,
They shall be ransom'd: let it be at Millions.
_Dem_. They are dead, they are dead.
_Lieu_. When wou'd he weep for me thus?
I may be dead and powder'd.
_Leo_. Good Prince, grieve not:
We are not certain of their deaths: the Enemy,
Though he be hot, and keen,
Yet holds good Quarter.
What Noise is this?
[_Great Shout within: Enter Gentlemen._
_Lieu_. He does not follow us?
Give me a Steeple top.
_Leo_. They live, they live, Sir.
_Ant_. Hold up your manly face.
They live, they are here, Son.
_Dem_. These are the men.
_1 Gent_. They are, and live to honour ye.
_Dem_. How 'scap'd ye noble friends? methought I saw ye
Even in the Jaws of Death.
_2 Gent_. Thanks to our folly,
That spur'd us on; we were indeed hedg'd round in't;
And ev'n beyond the hand of succour, beaten,
Unhors'd, disarm'd: and what we lookt for then, Sir,
Let such poor weary Souls that hear the Bell knoll,
And see the Grave a digging, tell.
_Dem_. For Heavens sake
Delude mine Eyes no longer! how came ye off?
_1 Gent_. Against all expectation, the brave _Seleucus_,
I think this day enamour'd on your Vertue,
When, through the Troops, he saw ye shoot like lightning;
And at your manly courage all took fire;
And after that, the misery we fell to
The never-certain Fate of War, considering,
As we stood all before him, Fortunes ruines,
Nothing but Death expecting, a short time
He made a stand upon our Youths and Fortunes.
Then with an eye of mercy inform'd his Judgment,
How yet unripe we were, unblown, unharden'd,
Unfitted for such fatal ends; he cryed out to us,
Go Gentlemen, commend me to your Master,
To the most High, and Hopeful Prince, _Demetrius_;
Tell him the Valour that he showed against me
This day, the Virgin Valour, and true fire,
Deserves even from an Enemy this courtesie;
Your Lives, and Arms freely. I'll give 'em: thank him.
And thus we are return'd, Sir.
_Leo_. Faith, 'twas well done;
'Twas bravely done; was't not a noble part, Sir?
_Lieu_. Had I been there, up had I gone, I am sure on't;
These noble tricks I never durst trust 'em yet.
_Leo_. Let me not live, and't were not a famed honesty;
It takes me such a tickling way: now would I wish Heaven,
But e'n the happiness, e'n that poor blessing
For all the sharp afflictions thou hast sent me,
But e'n i'th' head o'th' field, to take _Seleucus_.
I should do something memorable: fie, sad still?
_1 Gent_. Do you grieve, we are come off?
_Dem_. Unransom'd, was it?
_2 Gent_. It was, Sir.
_Dem_. And with such a fame to me?
Said ye not so?
_Leo_. Ye have heard it.
_Dem_. O _Leontius_!
Better I had lost 'em all: my self had perish'd,
And all my Fathers hopes.
_Leo_. Mercy upon you;
What ails you, Sir? Death, do not make fools on's,
Neither go to Church, nor tarry at home,
That's a fine Horn-pipe?
_Ant_. What's now your grief, _Demetrius_?
_Dem_. Did he not beat us twice?
_Leo_. He beat, a Pudding;
Beat us but once.
_Dem_. H'as beat me twice, and beat me to a Coward.
Beat me to nothing.
_Lieu_. Is not the Devil in him?
_Leo_. I pray it be no worse.
_Dem_. Twice conquer'd me.
_Leo_. Bear witness all the world, I am a Dunce here.
_Dem_. With valour first he struck me, then with honour,
That stroak _Leontius_, that stroak, dost thou not feel it?
_Leo_. Whereabouts was it? for I remember nothing yet.
_Dem_. All these Gentlemen
That were his Prisoners--
_Leo_. Yes, he set 'em free, Sir,
With Arms and honour.
_Dem_. There, there, now thou hast it;
At mine own weapon, Courtesie has beaten me,
At that I was held a Master in, he has cow'd me,
Hotter than all the dint o'th' Fight he has charg'd me:
Am I not now a wretched fellow? think on't;
And when thou hast examin'd all wayes honorable,
And find'st no door left open to requite this,
Conclude I am a wretch, and was twice beaten.
_Ant_. I have observ'd your way, and understand it,
And equal love it as _Demetrius_,
My noble child thou shalt not fall in vertue,
I and my power will sink first: you _Leontius_,
Wait for a new Commission, ye shall out again,
And instantly: you shall not lodge this night here,
Not see a friend, nor take a blessing with ye,
Before ye be i'th' field: the enemy is up still,
And still in full design: Charge him again, Son,
And either bring home that again thou hast lost there,
Or leave thy body by him.
_Dem_. Ye raise me,
And now I dare look up again, _Leontius_.
_Leo_. I, I, Sir, I am thinking who we shall take of 'em,
To make all straight; and who we shall give to th' Devil.
What saist thou now Lieutenant?
_Lieu_. I say nothing.
Lord what ail I, that I have no mind to fight now?
I find my constitution mightily alter'd
Since I came home: I hate all noises too,
Especially the noise of Drums; I am now as well
As any living man; why not as valiant?
To fight now, is a kind of vomit to me,
It goes against my stomach.
_Dem_. Good Sir, presently;
You cannot doe your Son so fair a favour.
_Ant_. 'Tis my intent: I'le see ye march away too.
Come, get your men together presently, _Leontius_,
And press where please you, as you march.
_Leo_. We goe Sir.
_Ant_. Wait you on me, I'le bring ye to your command,
And then to fortune give you up.
_Dem_. Ye love me. [_Exit._
_Leo_. Goe, get the Drums, beat round, Lieutenant.
_Lieu_. Hark ye, Sir,
I have a foolish business they call marriage.
_Leo_. After the wars are done.
_Lieu_. The partie staies Sir,
I have giv'n the Priest his mony too: all my friends Sir,
My Father, and my Mother.
_Leo_. Will you goe forward?
_Lieu_. She brings a pretty matter with her.
_Leo_. Half a dozen Bastards.
_Lieu_. Some fortie Sir.
_Leo_. A goodly competency.
_Lieu_. I mean Sir, pounds a year; I'le dispatch the matter,
'Tis but a night or two; I'le overtake ye Sir.
_Leo_. The 2 old legions, yes: where lies the horse-quarter?
_Lieu_. And if it be a boy, I'le even make bold Sir.
_Leo_. Away with your whore,
A plague o' your whore, you damn'd Rogue,
Now ye are cur'd and well; must ye be clicketing?
_Lieu_. I have broke my mind to my Ancient, in my absence,
He's a sufficient Gentleman.
_Leo_. Get forward.
_Lieu_. Only receive her portion.
_Leo_. Get ye forward;
Else I'le bang ye forward.
_Lieu_. Strange Sir,
A Gentleman and an officer cannot have the liberty
To doe the office of a man.
_Leo_. Shame light on thee,
How came this whore into thy head?
_Lieu_. This whore Sir?
'Tis strange, a poor whore.
_Leo_. Do not answer me,
Troop, Troop away; do not name this whore again,
Or think there is a whore.
_Lieu_. That's very hard Sir.
_Leo_. For if thou dost, look to't, I'le have thee guelded,
I'le walk ye out before me: not a word more. [_Exeunt_.
_SCENA V._
_Enter_ Leucippe, _and_ Governess.
_Leu_. Ye are the Mistris of the house ye say,
Where this young Lady lies.
_Gov_. For want of a better.
_Leu_. You may be good enough for such a purpose:
When was the Prince with her? answer me directly.
_Gov_. Not since he went a warring.
_Leu_. Very well then:
What carnal copulation are you privie to
Between these two? be not afraid, we are women,
And may talk thus amongst our selves, no harm in't.
_Gov_. No sure, there's no harm in't, I conceive that;
But truly, that I ever knew the Gentlewoman
Otherwise given, than a hopefull Gentlewoman--
_Leu_. You'l grant me the Prince loves her?
_Gov_. There I am with ye.
And the gods bless her, promises her mightily.
_Leu_. Stay there a while. And gives her gifts?
_Gov_. Extreamly;
And truly makes a very Saint of her.
_Leu_. I should think now,
(Good woman let me have your judgement with me,
I see 'tis none of the worst: Come sit down by me)
That these two cannot love so tenderly.
_Gov_. Being so young as they are too.
_Leu_. You say well--
But that methinks some further promises--
_Gov_. Yes, yes,
I have heard the Prince swear he would marry her.
_Leu_. Very well still: they do not use to fall out?
_Gov_. The tenderest Chickens to one another,
They cannot live an hour asunder.
_Leu_. I have done then;
And be you gone; you know your charge, and do it.
You know whose will it is; if you transgress it--
That is, if any have access, or see her,
Before the Kings will be fulfill'd--
_Gov_. Not the Prince, Madam?
_Leu_. You'I be hang'd if you doe it, that I'le assure ye.
_Gov_. But ne'retheless, I'le make bold to obey ye.
_Leu_. Away, and to your business then.
_Gov_. 'Tis done, Madam. [_Exeunt._
_ACTUS TERTIUS. SCENA PRIMA_
_Enter_ Antigonus, _and_ Menippus.
_Ant_. Thou hast taken wondrous pains; but yet _Menippus_,
You understand not of what bloud and country.
_Men_. I labour'd that, but cannot come to know it.
A _Greek_ I am sure she is, she speaks this language.
_Ant_. Is she so excellent handsom?
_Men_. Most inticing.
_Ant_. Sold for a prisoner?
_Men_. Yes Sir,
Some poor creature.
_Ant_. And he loves tenderly?
_Men_. They say extreamly.
_Ant_. 'Tis well prevented then: yes, I perceiv'd it:
When he took leave now, he made a hundred stops,
Desir'd an hour, but half an hour, a minute,
Which I with anger cross'd; I knew his business,
I knew 'twas she he hunted on; this journey, man,
I beat out suddenly for her cause intended,
And would not give him time to breath. When comes she?
_Men_. This morning Sir.
_Ant_. Lodge her to all delight then:
For I would have her try'd to th' test: I know,
She must be some crackt coyn, not fit his traffique, (her,
Which when we have found, the shame will make him leave
Or we shall work a nearer way: I'le bury him,
And with him all the hopes I have cast upon him,
E're he shall dig his own grave in that woman:
You know which way to bring her: I'le stand close there,
To view her as she passes: and do you hear _Menippus_,
Observe her with all sweetness: humour her,
'Twill make her lie more careless to our purposes.
Away, and take what helps you please.
_Men_. I am gone Sir. [_Exeunt_.
_SCENA II._
_Enter_ Celia, _and_ Governess.
_Cel_. Governess, from whom was this Gown sent me?
Prethee be serious true; I will not wear't else:
'Tis a handsom one.
_Gov_. As though you know not?
_Cel_. No faith:
But I believe, for certain too, yet I wonder,
Because it was his caution, this poor way,
Still to preserve me from the curious searchings
Of greedy eyes.
_Gov_. You have it: does it please you?
_Cel_. 'Tis very rich, methinks too, prethee tell me?
_Gov_. From one that likes you well, never look coy, Lady;
These are no gifts, to be put off with powtings.
_Cel_. Powtings, and gifts? is it from any stranger?
_Gov_. You are so curious, that there is no talk to ye.
What if it be I pray ye?
_Cel_. Unpin good Governess,
Quick, quick.
_Gov_. Why, what's the matter?
_Cel_. Quick, good Governess:
Fie on't, how beastly it becomes me! poorly!
A trick put in upon me? well said Governess:
I vow I would not wear it--out, it smells musty.
Are these your tricks? now I begin to smell it,
Abominable musty; will you help me?
The Prince will come again--
_Gov_. You are not mad sure?
_Cel_. As I live I'le cut it off: a pox upon it;
For sure it was made for that use; do you bring me Liveries?
Stales to catch Kites? dost thou laugh too, thou base woman?
_Gov_. I cannot chuse, if I should be hang'd.
_Cel_. Abuse me,
And then laugh at me too?
_Gov_. I do not abuse ye:
Is it abuse, to give him drink that's thirsty?
You want cloaths; is it such a hainous sin I beseech ye,
To see you stor'd?
_Cel_. There is no greater wickedness
Than this way.
_Gov_. What way?
_Cel_. I shall curse thee fearfully,
If thou provok'st me further: and take heed, woman;
My curses never miss.
_Gov_. Curse him that sent it.
_Cel_. Tell but his name--
_Gov_. You dare not curse him.
_Cel_. Dare not?
By this fair light--
_Gov_. You are so full of passion--
_Cel_. Dare not be good? be honest? dare not curse him?
_Gov_. I think you dare not: I believe so.
_Cel_. Speak him.
_Gov_. Up with your valour then, up with it bravely,
And take your full charge.
_Cel_. If I do not, hang me;
Tell but his name.
_Gov_. 'Twas Prince Demetrius sent it:
Now, now, give fire, kill him i'th' eye now Lady.
_Cel_. Is he come home?
_Gov_. It seems so; but your curse now.
_Cel_. You do not lie, I hope.
_Gov. You dare not curse him.
_Cel_. Prethee do not abuse me: is he come home indeed?
For I would now with all my heart believe thee.
_Gov_. Nay, you may chuse: alas, I deal for strangers,
That send ye scurvie musty Gowns, stale Liveries:
I have my tricks.
_Cel_. 'Tis a good gown, a handsome one;
I did but jest; where is he?
_Gov_. He that sent it--
_Cel_. How? he that sent it? is't come to that again?
Thou canst not be so foolish: prethee speak out,
I may mistake thee.
_Gov_. I said he that sent it.
_Cel_. Curse o' my life: why dost thou vex me thus?
I know thou meanest Demetrius, dost thou not?
I charge thee speak truth: if it be any other,
Thou knowst the charge he gave thee, and the justice
His anger will'inflift, if e're he know this,
As know he shall, he shall, thou spightfull woman,
Thou beastly woman; and thou shalt know too late too,
And feel too sensible, I am no ward,
No sale stuff for your money Merchants that sent if?
Who dare send me, or how durst thou, thou--
_Gov_. What you please:
For this is ever the reward of service.
The Prince shall bring the next himself.
_Cel_. 'Tis strange
That you should deal so peevishly: beshrew ye,
You have put me in a heat.
_Gov_. I am sure ye have kill'd me:
I ne're receiv'd such language: I can but wait upon ye,
And be your drudge; keep a poor life to serve ye.
_Cel_. You know my nature is too easie, Governess,
And you know now, I am sorry too: how does he?
_Gov_. O God, my head.
_Cel_. Prethee be well, and tell me,
Did he speak of me, since he came? nay, see now,
If thou wilt leave this tyranny? good sweet governess,
Did he but name his _Celia_? look upon me,
Upon my faith I meant no harm: here, take this,
And buy thy self some trifles: did he good wench?
_Gov_. He loves ye but too dearly.
_Cel_. That's my good Governess.
_Gov_. There's more cloaths making for ye.
_Cel_. More cloaths?
_Gov_. More:
Richer and braver; I can tell ye that news;
And twenty glorious things.
_Cel_. To what use Sirrah?
_Gov_. Ye are too good for our house now: we poor wretches
Shall lose the comfort of ye.
_Cel_. No, I hope not.
_Gov_. For ever lose ye Lady.
_Cel_. Lose me? wherefore?
I hear of no such thing.
_Gov_. 'Tis sure it must be so:
You must shine now at Court: such preparation,
Such hurry, and such hanging rooms--
_Cel_. To th' Court wench?
Was it to th' Court thou saidst?
_Gov_. You'l find it so.
_Cel_. Stay, stay, this cannot be.
_Gov_. I say it must be:
I hope to find ye still the same good Lady.
_Cel_. To th' Court? this stumbles me: art sure for me wench,
This preparation is?
_Gov_. She is perilous crafty:
I fear too honest for us all too. Am I sure I live?
_Cel_. To th' Court? this cannot down: what should I do there?
Why should he on a suddain change his mind thus,
And not make me acquainted? sure he loves me;
His vow was made against it, and mine with him:
At least while this King liv'd: he will come hither,
And see me e're I goe?
_Gov_. Wou'd some wise woman
Had her in working. That I think he will not,
Because he means with all joy there to meet ye.
Ye shall hear more within this hour.
_Cel_. A Courtier?
What may that meaning be? sure he will see me
If he be come, he must: Hark ye good Governess,
What age is the King of?
_Gov_. He's an old man, and full of business.
_Cel_. I fear too full indeed: what Ladys are there?
I would be loth to want good company.
_Gov_. Delicate young Ladys, as you would desire;
And when you are acquainted, the best company.
_Cel_. 'Tis very well: prethee goe in, let's talk more.
For though I fear a trick, Fie bravely try it.
_Gov_. I see he must be cunning,
Knocks this Doe down. [_Exeunt_.
_SCENA III._
_Enter_ Lieutenant, _and_ Leontius, _Drums within_.
_Leo_. You shall not have your will, sirrah, are ye running?
Have ye gotten a toy in your heels? Is this a season,
When honour pricks ye on, to prick your ears up,
After your whore, your Hobby-horse?
_Lieu_. Why look ye now:
What a strange man are you? would you have a man fight
At all hours all alike?
Back to Full Books
|