The assignation, or, Love in a nunnery as it is acted, at the Theatre-Royal / written by John Dryden.

THE ASSIGNATION : OR , Love in a Nunnery . As it is ACTED , At the THEATRE-ROYAL .

Written by IOHN DRYDEN Servant to His MAJESTY .

Successum dea dira negat — Virg.

LONDON : Printed by T. N. for Henry Herringman , and are to be sold at the Anchor in the Lower Walk of the New Exchange . 1673.

TO MY MOST HONOUR'D FRIEND Sir CHARLES SEDLEY , Baronet . Sir ,

THe Design of Dedicating Playes , is as common and unjust , as that of desiring Seconds in a Duel . 'T is engaging our Friends ( it may be ) in a senceless quarrel , where they have much to venture , without any concernment of their own . I have declar'd thus much before-hand , to prevent you from suspicion , that I intend to interest either your judgment or your kindness , in defending the Errours of this Comedy . It succeeded ill in the representation , against the opinion of many the best Judges of our Age , to whom you know I read it e're it was presented publickly . Whether the fault was in the Play it self , or in the lameness of the Action , or in the number of its Enemies , who came resolv'd to damn it for the Title , I will not now dispute : that wou'd be too like the little satisfaction which an unlucky Gamester finds in the relation of every cast by which he came to lose his Money . I have had formerly so much success , that the miscarriage of this Play was onely my giving fortune her revenge : I ow'd it her ; and she was indulgent that she exacted not the paiment long before . I will therefore deal more reasonably with you , than any Poet has ever done with any Patron : I do not so much as oblige you for my sake to pass two ill houres in reading of my Play. Think , if you please , that this Dedication is onely an occasion I have taken to do my self the greatest honour imaginable with Posterity ; that is , to be recorded in the number of those Men whom you have favour'd with your Friendship and esteem . For , I am well assur'd , that besides the present satisfaction I have , it will gain me the greatest part of my reputation with after-Ages , when they shall find me valuing my self on your kindness to me : I may have reason to suspect my own credit with them , but I have none to doubt of yours . And they who perhaps wou'd forget me in my Poems , wou'd remember me in this Epistle .

This was the course which has formerly been practis'd by the Poets of that Nation who were Masters of the Universe . Horace and Ovid , who had little reason to distrust their Immortality ; yet took occasion to speak with honour of Virgil , Varius , Tibullus , and Propertius their Contemporaries : as if they sought in the testimony of their Friendship a farther evidence of their fame . For my own part , I , who am the least amongst the Poets , have yet the fortune to be honour'd with the best Patron , and the best Friend . For , ( to omit some Great Persons of our Court , to whom I am many wayes oblig'd , and who have taken care of me , even amidst the Exigencies of a War , ) I can make my boast to have found a better Maecenas in the person of my Lord Treasurer Clifford , and a more Elegant Tibullus in that of Sir Charles Sedley . I have chosen that Poet to whom I would resemble you , not onely because I think him at least equal , if not superiour to Ovid in his Elegies : nor because of his quality for he was ( you know ) a Roman Knight as well as Ovid : but for his Candour , his Wealth , his way of Living , and particularly because of this testimony which is given him by Horace , which I have a thousand times in my mind apply'd to you . Non tu Corpus eras sine pectore ; Dii tibi formam , Dii tibi divitias dederant , artemque fruendi . Quid voveat dulci Nutricula majus Alumno Quam sapere , & fari possit quae sentiat , & cui Gratia , forma , valetudo contingat abunde ; Et mundus victus , non deficiente crumena ? Certainly the Poets of that Age enjoy'd much happiness in the Conversation and Friendship of one another . They imitated the best way of Living , which was to pursue an innocent and inoffensive Pleasure ; that which one of the Ancients called Eruditam voluptatem . We have , like them , our Genial Nights ; where our discourse is neither too serious , nor too light ; but alwayes pleasant , and for the most part instructive : the raillery neither too sharp upon the present , nor too censorious on the absent ; and the Cups onely such as will raise the Conversation of the Night , without disturbing the business of the Morrow . And thus far not only the Philosophers , but the Fathers of the Church have gone , without lessening their Reputation of good Manners , or of Piety . For this reason I have often Laugh'd at the ignorant and ridiculous Descriptions which some Pedants have given of the Wits ( as they are pleas'd to call them : ) which are a Generation of Men as unknown to them , as the People of Tartary or the terra Australis are to us . And therefore as we draw Giants and Anthropophagi in those vacances of our Maps , where we have not Travell'd to discover better ; so those wretches Paint leudness , Atheism , Folly , ill-Reasoning , and all manner of Extravagances amongst us for want of understanding what we are . Oftentimes it so falls out , that they have a particular picque to some one amongst us ; and then they immediately interest Heaven in their quarrel : As 't is an usual trick in Courts ; when one designs the ruine of his Enemy , to disguise his malice with some concernment of the Kings : and to revenge his own cause , with pretence of vindicating the Honour of his Master . Such Wits as they describe , I have never been so unfortunate to meet in your Company : but have often heard much better Reasoning at your Table , than I have encounter'd in their Books . The Wits they describe , are the Fops we banish : for Blasphemy and Atheism , if they were neither Sin nor Ill Manners , are Subjects so very common , and worn so Thredbare , that people who have sence avoid them , for fear of being suspected to have none . It calls the good Name of their Wit in question , as it does the Credit of a Citizen when his Shop is fill'd with Trumperies , and Painted Titles in stead of Wares : we conclude them Bancrupt to all manner of understanding : and , that to use Blasphemy , is a kind of applying Pigeons to the Soles of the Feet : it proclaims their Fancy as well as judgment , to be in a desperate condition . I am sure for your own particular , if any of these Judges had once the happiness to converse with you , to hear the Candour of your Opinions ; how freely you commend that wit in others , of which you have so large a Portion your self ; how unapt you are to be censorious ; with how much easiness you speak so many things , and those so Pointed , that no other Man is able to excell , or perhaps to reach by Study ; they wou'd , in stead of your Accusers , become your Proselites . They wou'd reverence so much good Sence , and so much good Nature in the same person : and come , like the Satyre , to warm themselves at that Fire , of which they were ignorantly afraid , when they stood at distance . But , you have too great a Reputation to be wholly free from Censure : 't is a fine which Fortune sets upon all extraordinary persons , and from which you should not wish to be deliver'd till you are dead . I have been , us'd by my Critiques much more severely , and have more reason to complain , because I am deeper tax'd for a less Estate . I am ridiculously enough accus'd to be a contemner of Universities , that is in other words , an Enemy of Learning : without the Foundation of which I am sure no Man can pretend to be a Poet. And if this be not enough , I am made a Detractor from my Predecessors , whom I confess to have been my Masters in the Art. But this latter was the accusation of the best Judge , and almost the best Poet in the Latine Tongue . You find Horace complaining , that for taxing some Verses in Lucilius , he himself was blam'd by others , though his Design was no other than mine now , to improve the Knowledge of Poetry : and it was no defence to him , amongst his Enemies , any more than it is for me , that he Prais'd Lucilius where he deserv'd it ; Paginâ laudatur eâdem . 'T is for this reason I will be no more mistaken for my good meaning : I know I honour Ben Iohnson more than my little Critiques , because without vanity I may own , I understand him better . As for the Errors they pretend to find in me , I could easily show them that the greatest part of them are Beauties : and for the rest , I could recriminate upon the best Poets of our Nation , if I could resolve to accuse another of little faults , whom at the same time I admire for greater Excellencies . But I have neither concernment enough upon me to write any thing in my own Defence , neither will I gratifie the ambition of two wretched Scriblers , who desire nothing more than to be Answer'd . I have not wanted Friends , even amongst Strangers , who have defended me more strongly , than my contemptible Pedant cou'd attacque me . For the other : he is onely like Fungoso in the Play , who follows the Fashion at a distance , and adores the Fastidius Brisk of Oxford . You can bear me witness , that I have not consideration enough for either of them to be angry : Let Maevius and Bavius admire each other , I wish to be hated by them and their Fellows , by the same reason for which I desire to be lov'd by you . And I leave it to the world , whether their judgment of my Poetry ought to be preferr'd to yours ; though they are as much prejudic'd by their Malice , as I desire you should be led by your Kindness , to be partial to , Sir ,

Your most Humble and most Faithful Servant John Dryden .

Prologue . PRologues , like Bells to Churches , toul you in With Chimeing Verse ; till the dull Playes begin : With this sad difference though , of Pit and Pue ; You damn the Poet , but the Priest damns you . But Priests can treat you at your own expence : And , gravely , call you Fooles , without offence . Poets , poor Devils , have ne'r your Folly shown But , to their cost , you prov'd it was their own . For , when a Fop's presented on the Stage , Straight all the Coxcombs in the Town ingage : For his deliverance , and revenge they joyn : And grunt , like Hogs , about their Captive Swine . Your Poets daily split upon this shelfe : You must have Fooles , yet none will have himself . Or , if in kindness , you that leave would give , No man could write you at that rate you live : For some of you grow Fops with so much haste , Riot in nonsence , and commit such waste , 'T would Ruine Poets should they spend so fast . He who made this , observ'd what Farces hit , And durst not disoblige you now with wit. But , Gentlemen , you overdo the Mode : You must have Fooles out of the common Rode. Th' unnatural strain'd Buffoon is onely taking : No Fop can please you now of Gods own making . Pardon our Poet if he speaks his Mind , You come to Plays with your own Follies lin'd : Small Fooles fall on you , like small showers , in vain : Your own oyl'd Coates keep out all common raine . You must have Mamamouchi , such a Fop As would appear a Monster in a Shop : Hee 'l fill your Pit and Boxes to the brim , Where , Ram'd in Crowds , you see your selves in him . Sure there 's some spell our Poet never knew , In hullibabilah da , and Chu , chu , chu . But Marabarah sahem most did touch you , That is : Oh how we love the Mamamouchi ! Grimace and habit sent you pleas'd away : You damn'd the Poet , and cry'd up the Play. This thought had made our Author more uneasie , But that he hopes I'm Fool enough to please ye : But here 's my griefe ; though Nature joyn'd with art , Have cut me out to act a Fooling Part ; Yet , to your praise , the few wits here will say , 'T was imitating you taught Haynes to Play.

Persons Represented . By Duke of Mantoua Major Mohun . Prince Frederick his Son Mr. Kynaston . Aurelian a Roman Gentleman Mr. Hart. Camillo his Friend Mr. Burt. Mario Governor of Rome Mr. Cartwright . Ascanio , Page of Honour to the Prince Mrs. Reeve . Benito , Servant to Aurelian Mr. Haynes . Valerio , Confident to the Duke Fabio , Servant to Mario Sophronia , Abbess of the Torr'di Specchi . Mrs. Iames. Lucretia , a Lady design'd to be a Nun Mrs. Marshall . Hippolita , a Nun Mrs. Knep . Laura Sisters , Neeces to Mario Mrs. Bowtel . and Violetta Sisters , Neeces to Mario Mrs. Cox.

Scene , ROME .

THE ASSIGNATION : OR , Love in a Nunnery . SCENE ROME . A Great Glass Plac'd . Enter Benito , with a Guittar in his hand . Benito

bowing to the Glass . SAve you , sweet Signior Benito ; by my faith I am glad to see you look so bonily to day : Gad , Sir , every thing becomes you to a miracle ! your Perruke , your Cloaths , your Hat , your Shoo-tyes ; and , Gad , Sir , let me tell you , you become every thing ; you walk with such a grace , and you bow so pliantly —

Aurelian

within . Benito , Where are you , Sirrah ?

Ben.

Sirrah ! That my damn'd Master should call a man of my extraordinary indowments , Sirrah ! A man of my indowments ? Gad , I ask my own pardon , I mean , a person of my indowments ; for a man of my parts and tallents , though he be but a Valet de Chambre , is a person ; and , let me tell my Master — Gad , I frown too , as like a person as any Jack-Gentleman of 'em all ; but , Gad , when I do not frown , I am an absolute beauty : whatever this Class sayes to the contrary : and , if this Glass deny it , 't is a base , lying Glass , so I 'll tell it to its face , and kick it down into the bargain .

Aurelia

within . Why Benito , How long shall we stay for you ?

Ben.

I come , Sir. What the Devil would he have ? But , by his favour , I 'll first survey my Dancing , and my Singing . He playes on the Guittar , and Dances and Sings to the Glass . I think that was not amiss : I think so . Gad , I can Layes down the Guittar . Dance , and play no longer , I am in such a rapture with my self . What a villanous base fate have I ? with all these excellencies , and a profound wit , and yet to be a Serving-man !

Enter Aurelian and Camillo . Aur.

Why , you Slave , you Dog , you Son of twenty Fathers , am I to be serv'd at this rate eternally ? A pox o' your conceited coxcomb .

Camillo .

Nay , prythee , Aurelian , be not angry .

Aur.

You do not know this Rogue , as I do , Camillo . Now , by this Guittar , and that great looking-glass , I am certain how he has spent his time . He courts himself every morning in that Glass , at least an hour : there admires his own person , and his parts , and studies postures and grimaces , to make himself yet more ridiculous , than he was born to be .

Cam.

You wrong him sure .

Aur.

I do ; for he is yet more fool than I can speak him : I never sent him on a message , but he runs first to that Glass , to practice how he may become his errand . Speak , Is this a lye , Sirrah ?

Ben.

I confess , I have some kindness for the mirrour .

Aur.

The mirrour ! there 's a touch of his Poetry too , he could not call it a Glass . Then the Rogue has the impudence to make Sonnets , as he calls 'em ; and , which is a greater impudence , he sings 'em too : there 's not a Street in all Rome which he does not nightly disquiet with his villanous Serenades : with that Guittar there , the younger brother of a Cittern , he frights away the Watch ; and for his Violin , it squeaks so lewdly , that Sir Tibert in the gutter mistakes him for his Mistriss . 'T is a meer Cat-call .

Cam.

Is this true Benito ?

Ben.

to Cam. aside . My Master , Sir , may say his pleasure ; I divert my self sometimes with hearing him : Alass , good Gentleman , 't is not given to all persons to penetrate into Mens parts and qualities ; but I look on you , Sir , as a man of judgment , and therefore you shall hear me play and sing .

He takes up the Guittar and begins . Aur.

Why , you invincible Sot you , will nothing mend you ? Lay 't down , or —

Ben.

to Camillo . Do ye see , Sir , this Enemy to the Muses ? he will not let me hold forth to you . Layes down the Guittar . O Envy , and Ignorance , Whither will you ! — But , Gad , before I 'll suffer my parts to be kept in obscurity —

Aur.

What will you do , Rascal ?

Ben.

I 'll take up the Guittar , and suffer heroically .

He Playes , Aure. Kicks . Aur.

What ? Do you Mutiny ?

Ben.

Ay , do , kick till your toes ake ; I 'll be baffled in my Musick by ne'r a foot in Christendome .

Aur.

I 'll put you out of your time , with a vengeance to you .

As Aurelian kicks harder , Benito sings faster , and sometimes cryes out . Cam.

holding Aur. Nay , then 't is time to stickle . Hold , Aurelian , prythee spare Benito , you know we have occasion for him .

Aur.

I think that was well kick'd .

Ben.

And I think that was well Sung too .

Cam.

Enough , Aurelian .

Ben.

No , Sir ; let him proceed to discourage vertue , and see what will come on 't .

Cam.

Now to our business : but we must first instruct Benito .

Aur.

Be rul'd by me , and do not trust him : I prophesie he 'll spoil the whole affair ; he has a Worm in 's head as long as a Conger , a brain so barren of all sence , and yet so fruitful of foolish plots , that if he does not all things his own way , yet at least he 'll ever be mingling his designs with yours , and go halves with you , so that what with his ignorance , what with his plotting , he 'll be sure to ruine you , with an intention to serve you . For my part I had turn'd him off long since ; but that my wise Father , commanded me the contrary .

Cam.

Still you speak , as if what we did were choice , and not necessity : you know their Uncle is suspicious of me , and consequently jealous of all my Servants ; but if we employ yours , who is not suspected , because you are a stranger ; I doubt not to get an Assignation with the younger Sister .

Aur.

Well , use your own way , Camillo : but if it ever succeed , with his management —

Cam.

You must understand then , Benito , that this old Signior Mario , has two Neeces , with one of which I am desperately in Love , and —

Ben.

aside to him , I understand you already , Sir , and you desire Love reciprocal : Leave your business in my hands , and , if it succeed not , think me no wiser than my Master .

Cam.

Pray take me with you . These Sisters are great Beauties and vast Fortunes ; but , by a Clause in their Fathers Will , if they Marry without their Uncles Consent , are to forfeit all . Their Uncle , who is covetous , and base to the last degree , takes advantage of this Clause , and under pretence of not finding fit Matches for them , denies his consent to all who love ' em .

Ben.

Denies 'em marriage : very good , Sir.

Cam.

More than this , he refuses access to any Suitor , and immures 'em in a mean appartment on the garden side , where he barbarously debars 'em from all humane Socitey .

Ben.

Uses them most barbarously : Still better and better .

Cam.

The younger of these Sisters , Violetta , I have seen often in the Garden , from the Balcony in this Chamber , which looks into it , have divers times shot Tickets on the point of an Arrow , which She has taken , and by the signes she made me I find they were not ill receiv'd .

Ben.

I 'll tell you now , just such an Amour as this had I once with a young Lady , that —

Aur.

Quote your self agen , you Rogue , and my feet shall renew their acquaintance with your Buttocks .

Cam.

Dear Benito , take care to convey this Ticket to Violetta : I saw her just now go by to the next Chappel ; be sure to stand ready to give her Holy-water , and slip the Ticket into the hand of her Woman Beatrix ; And take care the elder Sister Laura sees you not , for she knows nothing of our Amour .

Ben.

A word to the wise . Have you no Service to Laura ? To Aurelian .

Aur.

None that I shall trouble you withall : I 'll see first what returns you make from this Voyage , before I put in my venture with you . Away ; be gone , Mr. Mercury .

Ben.

I fly , Mr. Iupiter . Exit .

Aur.

This Lady Laura I have seen from your Balcone , and was seen by her : methought , too , she lookt with a languishing eye upon me , as who should say , Are you a man , and have no pitty for a poor distressed Virgin ? For my part , I never found so much disposition in my self to Love any woman at first sight : handsome she is , of that I am certain .

Cam.

And has Wit , I dare assure you ; but I have not heard she has admitted of any Gallantry .

Aur.

Her hour is not come yet ; she has not met with a man to Love : when that happens ( as I am resolv'd to push my fortune ) you shall see that , as her love warms , her vertue will melt down , and dissolve in it ; for there 's no such Baud to a woman , as her own wit is .

Cam.

I look upon the Assignation , as certain : Will you promise me to go ? You and Benito shall walk in the Garden , while I search the Nymph within the shade ; one thing I had forgot to tell you , that our General of the Church , the Duke of Mantoua , and the Prince his Son , are just approaching the Gates of Rome : Will you go see the Ceremony of their Entrance ?

Aur.

With all my heart . They say , he has behav'd himself gallantly against the French , at their return from Naples : besides , I have a particular knowledge of young Prince Frederick , ever since he was last at our Venetian Carnival .

Cam.

Away , then , quickly ; least we miss the Solemnity .

Exeunt . Enter Laura , and Violetta striving about a Letter , which Laura holds . Vio.

Let it go , I say :

Lau.

I say , let you go .

Vio.

Nay , sweet Sister Laura .

Lau.

Nay , dear Violetta , 't is in vain to contend , I am resolv'd I 'll see it . Plucks the Paper from Violetta .

Vio.

But I am resolv'd you shall not read it . I know not what authority this is which you assume , or what priviledge a year or two can give you , to use this Soveraignty over me .

Lau.

Do you rebell young Gentlewoman ? I 'll make you know I have a double right over you : one , as I have more years ; and the other as I have more wit.

Vio.

Though I am not all Ayr and Fire , as you are , yet that little wit I have , will serve to conduct my Affairs , without a Governess .

Lau.

No , Gentlewoman , but it shall not : are you fit at Fifteen to be trusted with a Maidenhead ? 'T is as much your betters can manage at full twenty .

For 't is of a nature so subtil , That , if 't is not Luted with care The Spirit will work through the Bottel , And vanish away into Ayr. To keep it , there 's nothing so hard is , 'T will go betwixt waking and sleeping , The Simple too weak for a guard is , And no Wit would be plagu'd with the keeping . Vio.

For ought I see , you are as little to be trusted with your Madness , as I with my Simplicity ; and therefore pray restore my Letter .

Lau.

reading it . What 's here ? An humble Petition for a private Meeting ? Are you twittering at that sport already , Mistriss Novice ?

Vio.

How ! I a Novice , at ripe Fifteen ? I would have you to know , that I have kill'd my Man before I was Fourteen , and now am ready for another execution .

Lau.

A very forward Rose-bud : you open apace , Gentlewoman . I find indeed your desires are quick enough ; but where will you have cunning to carry on your business with decency and secrecy ? Secrecy , I say , which is a main part of chastity in our Sex. Where wit , to be sensible of the delicacies of Love ? the tenderness of a farewell-sigh ? for an absence ? the joy of a return ? the zeal of a pressing-hand ? the sweetness of little quarrels , caus'd , and cur'd , by the excess of Love ? and , in short , the pleasing disquiets of the Soul , alwayes restless , and wandring up and down in a paradise of thought , of its own making ?

Vio.

If I understood not thus much before , I find you are an excellent instructer , and that argues you have had a feeling of the cause in your time too , Sister .

Lau.

What have I confess'd before I was aware ! She 'll find out my inclination to that stranger , whom I have only seen , and to whom I have never spoken — Aside . No , good Violetta , I never was in Love ; all my experience is from Playes and Romances : But who is this man , to whom you have promis'd an Assignation ?

Vio.

You 'll tell my Uncle .

Lau.

I hate my Uncle more than you do .

Vio.

You know the man , 't is Signior Camillo : his Birth and Fortunes are equal to what I can expect ; and he tells me his intentions are Honourable .

Lau.

Have I not seen him lately in his Balcone , which looks into our Garden , with another handsome Gentleman in his Company , who seems a stranger ?

Vio.

They are the same . Do you think it a reasonable thing , dear Laura , that my Uncle should keep us up so strictly , that we must be beholden to heresay , to know a young Gallant is in the next house to us ?

Lau.

'T is hard , indeed , to be mew'd like Hawks , and never Man'd : to be lock'd in like Nuns here .

Vio.

They that look for Nuns flesh in me shall be mistaken .

Lau.

Well , What answer have you return'd to this Letter ?

Vio.

That I would meet him at eight this evening , in the close walk in the Garden , attended onely by Beatrix my Woman .

Lau.

Who comes with him ?

Vio.

Only his friend's Man Benito ; the same who brought me the Letter which you took from me .

Lau.

Stay , let me think a little . Do Camillo , or this Benito , know your Maid Beatrix ?

Vio.

They have never talk'd with her ; but only seen her .

Lau.

'T is concluded then ; you shall meet your Servant , but I 'll be your Beatrix : I 'll go in stead of her , and counterfeit your waiting-woman : in the dark I may easily pass for her : By this means I shall be present to instruct you ; for you are yet a Callow Maid : I must teach you to Peck a little , you may come to Prey for your self in time .

Vio.

A little teaching will serve my turn : if the old one left me to my self , I could go near to get my Living .

Lau.

I find you are eager , and Baiting to be gone already , and I 'll not hinder you when your hour approaches . In the mean time go in , and sigh , and think fondly , and ignorantly of your approaching pleasures :

Love , in young hearts , is like the must of Wine ; 'T is sweetest then ; but elder 't is more fine . Exeunt .

ACT. II. SCENE I. The Front of a Nunnery . Prince Frederick , Aurelian , Camillo , and Ascanio the Princes Page . Fred.

MY Fathers ' antient , and may repose himself , if he pleases , after the Ceremony of his Entrance ; but we , who are younger , should think it a sin , to spend any part of day-light in a Chamber . What are your wayes of living here ?

Cam.

Why Sir , we pass our time , either in conversation alone , or in Love alone , or in Love and Conversation together .

Fred.

Come , explain , explain , my Counsel learned in the Laws of Living .

Cam.

For conversation alone ; that 's either in going to Court , with a Face of Business , and there discoursing of the affairs of Europe , of which , Rome , you know , is the publick Mart ; or , at best , meeting the Vertuosi , and there , wearying one another with rehearsing our own works , in Prose and Poetry .

Fred.

Away with that dry method , I will have none on 't . To the next .

Cam.

Love alone , is either plain wenching , where every Curtizan is your Mistriss , and every Man your Rival ; or else , what 's worse , plain whining after one Woman : that is , walking before her door by day , and haunting her street by night , with Guittars , dark Lanthorns , and Rondaches .

Aur.

Which , I take it , is , or will be our case , Camillo .

Fred.

Neither of these will fit my humour : if your third prove not more pleasant , I shall stick to the old Almaine recreation ; the Divine bottel , and the bounteous glass , that tun'd up old Horace to his Odes .

Aur.

You shall need to have no recourse to that ; for Love , and Conversation will do your business : that is , Sir , a most delicious Curtizan , I do not mean down-right Punk , but Punk of more than ordinary sence in Conversation : Punk in Ragou , Punk who playes on the Lute , and Sings ; and , to sum up all , Punk who Cooks and Dresses up her self , with Poynant Sawce , to become a new Dish every time she is serv'd up to you .

Fred.

This I believe , Aurelian , is your method of living , you talk of it so savorily .

Aur.

There is yet another more insipid sort of Love and Conversation : as for example , look you there , Sir ; the Pointing to the Nunnery Courtship of our Nuns . They talk prettily ; but , a Pox on 'em , they raise our appetites , and then starve us . They are as dangerous as cold Fruits without Wine , and are never to be us'd but where there are abundance of Wenches in readiness , to qualifie ' em .

Cam.

But yet they are ever at hand , and easie to come by ; and if you 'l believe an experienc'd sinner , easiness in Love is more than half the pleasure of it .

Fre.

This way of chatting pleases me ; for debauchery , I hate it ; and , to Love , is not in my nature , except it be my Friends . Pray , What do you call that Nunnery .

Cam.

'T is a House of Benedictines , call'd the Torre di Specchi , where only Ladies of the best Quality are Profess'd .

Lucretia and Hippolita appear at the Grates . Aur.

Look you yonder , Sir , are two of the pretty Magpies , in white and black : if you will lull your self into a Platonick Dream you may : but , consider your sport will be but dull , when you play without Stakes .

Fred.

No matter , I 'll fool away an hour of Courtship ; for I never yet was engag'd in a serious love , nor I believe can be . Farewell , Gentlemen ; at this time I shall dispence with your attendance : nay , without Ceremony , because I would be incognito .

Cam.

Come then , Aurelian , to our own affairs .

Exeunt Aur. and Camillo . The Prince and Ascanio approach . Fred.

to Lu. For what Crime , fair Creature , were you condemn'd to this perpetual Prison ?

Luc.

For Chastity and Devotion , and two or three such melancholly vertues : they first brought me hither , and now must keep me company .

Fred.

I should rather have guess'd it had been Murder , and that you are veil'd , for fear of doing more mischief wirh those Eyes : for , indeed , they are too sharp to be trusted out of the Scabbard .

Luc.

Cease , I beseech you , to accuse my Eyes , till they have done some execution on your heart .

Fred.

But I am out of reach , perhaps .

Luc.

Trust not to that ; they may shoot at a distance , though they cannot strike you near at hand .

Fred.

But , if they should kill , you are ne'r the better : there 's a Grate betwixt us , and you cannot fetch in the dead Quarry .

Luc.

Provided we destroy the Enemy , we do not value their dead bodies : but you , perhaps , are in your first error , and think we are rather Captives than Warriours ; that we come like Prisoners to the Grate , to beg the Charity of Passengers for their love .

Fre.

to Ascanio . Inquire as dexterously as you can , what is the Name and Quality of this Charming Creature .

Luc.

to Hip. Be sure , if the Page approaches you , to get out of him his Masters Name . The Prince and Lucretia seem to talk .

Hip.

to Asca. By that short whisper which I observ'd you took with your Master , I imagine , Mr. Page , you come to ask a certain question of me .

Asca.

By this thy question , and by that whisper with thy Lady , ( O thou Nymph of Devotion ! ) I find I am to impart a secret , and not to ask one : therefore , either confess thou art yet a meer Woman under that Veil , and by consequence most horribly inquisitive , or thou shalt lose thy longing , and know nothing of my Master .

Hip.

By my Virginity , you shall tell first .

Asca.

You 'll break your Oath , on purpose to make the forfeit .

Hip.

Your Master is call'd —

Asca.

You Lady is Yclip'd —

Hip.

For decency , in all matters of Love , the Man should offer first , you know .

Asca.

That needs not , when the Damsel is so willing .

Hip.

But I have sworn not to discover first , that her Name is Madam Lucretia ; fair , as you see , to a Miracle , and of a most charming conversation ; of Royal blood , and Neece to his Holiness ; and , if she were not espous'd to Heaven , a Mistriss for a Soveraign Prince .

Asca.

After these Encomiums , 't were vain for me to praise my Master : he is only poor Prince Frederick , otherwise call'd the Prince of Mantoua ; liberal , and valiant , discreet and handsome , and , in my simple judgment , a fitter Servant for your Lady , than his old Father , who is a Soveraign .

Hip.

Dare you make all this good you have said of your Master ?

Asca.

Yes , and as much more of my self to you .

Hip.

I defy you upon 't , as my Lady 's Second .

Asca.

As my Masters , I accept it . The time ?

Hip.

Six this evening .

Asca.

The place ?

Hip.

At this Grate .

Asca.

The Weapons ?

Hip.

Hands , and it may be Lips.

Asca.

'T is enough : expect to hear from me .

They withdraw and whisper to their Principals . After the Whisper . Fred.

to Luc. Madam , I am glad I know my enemy ; for since it is impossible to see , and not admire you , the name of Lucretia is the best excuse for my defeat .

Luc.

Persons , like Prince Frederick , ought not to assault Religious Houses ; or to pursue Chastity and Virtue to their last retreat .

Fred.

A Monastery is no retreat for Chastity ; 't is only a hiding place for bad faces , where they are thrust in Crowds together , like heaps of rubbish out of the way , that the world may not be peopled with deform'd persons , and that such who are out of Play themselves , may pray for a blessing on their endeavours , who are getting handsome Children : and carrying on the work for publick benefit .

Luc.

Then you would put off Heaven with your leavings , and use it like them who play at Cards alone , take the Courts for your selves , and give the refuse to the Gentleman .

Fred.

You mistake me , Madam ; I would so contrive it , that Heaven and we might be serv'd at once : we have occasion for Wit and Beauty ; now Piety and Ugliness will do as well for Heaven ; that playes at one Game , and we at another , and therefore heaven may make its hand with the same Cards that we put out .

Luc.

I could easily convince you if the argument concern'd me ; but I am one of those , whom , for want of wit and beauty , you have condemn'd to Religion : and therefore am your humble Servant to Pray for your handsome Wife and Children .

Fred.

Heaven forbid , Madam , that I should condemn you , or indeed any handsome woman , to be Religious . No , Madam ; the occasions of the World are great and urgent for such as you : and , for my part , I am of opinion , that it is as great a Sin for a Beauty to enter into a Nunnery , as for an ugly woman to stay out of it .

Luc.

The Cares of the World are not yet upon you ; but as soon as ever you come to be afflicted with Sickness , or visited with a Wife , you 'll be content I should pray for you .

Fre.

Any where , rather than in a Cloyster ; for , truly , I suppose , all your Prayers there will be how to get out of it ; and , upon that supposition , Madam , I am come to offer you my service for your redemption . Come , faith , be perswaded , the Church shall lose nothing by it : I 'll take you out , and put in two or three Crooked Apostles in your place . Bell rings within .

Luc.

Hark , the Bell rings , I must leave you : 't is a summons to our Devotion .

Fred.

Will you leave me for your Prayets , Madam ? You may have enough of them at any time , but remember you cannot have a Man so easily .

Luc.

Well , I 'll say my Beads for you , and that 's but Charity , for I believe I leave you in a most deplorable condition .

Exeunt Women . Fred.

Not deplorable neither , but a little altred : if I could be in Love , as I am sure I cannot , it should be with her , for I like her conversation strangely .

Asca.

Then , as young as I am , Sir , I am before-hand with you ; for I am in Love already . I would fain make the first proof of my Manhood upon a Nun : I find I have a mighty grudging to Holy Flesh.

Fred.

I 'll ply Lucretia again , as soon as ever her Devotion 's over . Methinks these Nuns divide their time most admirably : from Love to Prayers ; from Prayers to Love : that is , just so much Sin , just so much Godliness .

Asca. Then I can claim that Sister's Love by merit : Half Man , half Boy ; for her half Flesh , half Spirit . Exeunt .

SCENE II. A Street . Aurelian and Camillo . Aur.

I 'll proceed no farther , if Benito goes : I know his folly will produce some mischief .

Cam.

But Violetta desir'd me , in her Note , to bring him , on purpose to pass the time with her Woman Beatrix .

Aur.

That objection is easily remov'd : I 'll supply Benito's place ; the darkness will prevent discovery , and , for my discourse , I 'll imitate the half Wit , and patch'd breeding of a Valet de Chambre .

Cam.

But how shall we get rid of him ?

Aur.

Let me alone for that .

Enter Benito . Ben.

Come , Are we ready , Gallants ? the Clock's upon the stroke of Eight .

Aur.

But we have alter'd our resolution : we go another way to night .

Ben.

I hope you have not broke my Assignation .

Aur.

Why do you hope so ?

Ben.

Because my reputation is engag'd in 't : I 'ave stipulated upon my honour that you shall come .

Aur.

I shall beat you if you follow me . Go , Sirrah , and adjourn to the great looking-glass , and let me hear no more from you till to morrow morning .

Ben.

Sir , my fidelity , and , if I may be so vain , my discretion may stand you in some stead .

Aur.

Well , come along then , they are brave Fellows who have challeng'd us , you shall have fighting enough , Sir.

Ben.

How , Sir , Fighting ?

Aur.

You may scape with the loss of a Leg , or an arm , or some such transitory limb .

Ben.

No , Sir ; I have that absolute obedience to your commands , that I will bridle my courage , and stay at home . Exit .

Cam.

You took the only way to be rid of him . There 's the wall : behind yond pane of it we 'll set up the Ladder . Exeunt .

SCENE III. A Night-piece of a Garden . Enter Laura and Violetta . Vio.

Remember your waiting-womans part , Laura .

Lau.

I warrant you , I 'll wait on you by night as well as I govern'd you by day .

Vio.

Hark , I hear foot-steps ; and now , methinks , I see something approaching us .

Lau.

They are certainly the Men whom we expect .

Enter Aurelian and Camillo . Cam.

I hear Womens voices .

Aur.

We are right , I warrant you .

Cam.

Violetta , my Love !

Vio.

My dear Camillo !

Cam.

O speak those words again : my own name never sounded so sweetly to me , as when you spoke it , and made me happy by adding Dear to it .

Vio.

Speak softly then . I have stoln these few minutes from my watchful Uncle and my Sister , and they are as full of danger as they are of love . Something within me checks me too , and sayes , I was too forward in ventring thus to meet you .

Cam.

You are too fearful rather , and fear 's the greatest enemy to Love.

Vio.

But night will hide my blushes , when I tell you I love you much , or I had never trusted my virtue and my person in your hands .

Cam.

The one is sacred , and the other safe ; but this auspicious minute is our first of near converse . May I not hope that favour , which strangers , in civility , my claim even from the most reserv'd ?

Kisses her hand . Vio.

I fear you 'll censure me .

Cam.

Yes , as the blest above tax heaven for making them so happy . They walk farther off .

Aur.

stepping towards Lau. Damsel of darkness , advance , and meet my flames .

Lau.

stepping forward . Right trusty Valet , heard , but yet unseen , I have advanced one step on reputation .

Aur.

Now , by laudable custome , I am to love thee vehemently .

Lau.

We should do well to see each other first : You know 't is ill taking Money without light .

Aur.

O , but the coyn of Love is known by the weight only , and you may feel it in the dark : Besides , you know 't is Prince-like to Love without seeing .

Lau.

But then you may be serv'd as Princes are sometimes .

Aur.

Let us make haste however , and dispatch a little Love out of the way : we may do it now with ease , and save our selves a great deal of trouble , if we take it in time , before it grows too fast upon our hands .

Lau.

Fie , no ; let us Love discreetly , we must manage our passion , and not love all our love out at one meeting , but leave some for another time .

Aur.

I am for applying the Plaister whilst the wound is green , 't will heal the better . Takes her by the hand .

Lau.

Let go my hand : What crime has the poor wretch committed that you press it thus ? I remember no mischief it has done you .

Aur.

O 't is a hainous malefactour , and is press'd by Law , because it will confess nothing . Come , withdraw a little farther , we have urgent business with one another .

Lau.

'T were a shame to quit my ground upon the first charge ; yer if you please to take truce a little , I will consent to go behind the Lovers , and listen with you .

Aur.

I wonder you defer'd the Proposition so long . I were neither true Valet , nor you true Woman if we could not Eves-drop .

They retire behind the other two , who come forward upon the Stage . Cam.

kissing Violetta's hand . Give me another yet , and then —

Vio.

And then will you be satisfy'd ?

Cam.

And then I 'll ask a thousand more , and ne'r be satisfy'd . Kisses are but thin nourishment , they are too soon digested , and hungry Love craves more .

Vio.

You feed a Wolf within you .

Cam.

Then feast my Love with a more solid dyet . He makes us now a Misers Feast , and we forbear to take our fill . The silent night , and all these downy hours were made for Lovers : Gently they tread , and softly measure time , that no rude noise may fright the tender Maid , from giving all her soul to melting joyes .

Vio. You do not love me ; if you did , you would not Thus urge your satisfaction in my shame ; At best , I see you would not love me long , For they who plunder do not mean to stay . Cam. I haste to take possession of my own . Vio. E're Heaven and holy vows have made it so ? Cam. Then witness Heaven , and all these twinkling Stars — Vio. Hold , hold ; you are distemper'd with your love : Time , place , and strong desires now swear , not you . Cam. Is not Love love without a Priest and Altars ? The Temples are inanimate , and know not What Vows are made in them ; the Priest stands ready For his hire , and cares not what hearts he couples , Love alone is marriage . Vio. I never will receive these Mid-night Vows ; But when I come hereafter to your Arms , I 'll bring you a sincere , full , perfect bliss , Then you will thank me that I kept it so , And trust my faith hereafter . Lau.

There 's your destiny , Lover mine : I am to be honest by infection ; my Lady will none you see .

Aur.

Truth is , they are a lost couple , unless they learn grace by our example . Come , shall we begin first , and shame them both Takes her by the hand again .

Lau.

You 'll never be warn'd of this hand , Benito .

Aur.

Oh , 't is so soft , as it were made on purpose to take hearts , and handle them without hurting . These Taper fingers too , and even joynts , so supple , that methinks I mould 'em as they pass through mine : nay , in my conscience , th' it be nonsence to say it , your hand feels white too .

Lau.

Methinks yours is not very hard , for a Serving-mans : but where , in the name of wonder , have you learn'd to talk so courtly ? you are a strange Valet de Chambre .

Aur.

And you are as strange a Waiting-woman : you have so stab'd me with your Repartees to night , that I should be glad to change the weapon to be reveng'd on you .

Lau.

These , I suppose , are fragments which you learn'd from your wild Master Aurelian : many a poor woman has pass'd through his hands , with these very words . You treat me just like a Serving-man , with the cold Meat which comes from your Masters Table .

Aur.

You could never have suspected me for using my Masters wit , if you had not been guilty of purloining from your Lady . I am told , that Laura , your Mistresses Sister , has wit enough to confound a hundred Aurelians .

Lau.

I shall do your commendations to Laura for your complement .

Aur.

And I shall not fail to revenge my self by informing Aurelian of yours .

Enter Benito with a Guittar . Ben.

The poor souls shall not lose by the bargain , though my foolish gadding Masters have disappointed them . That Ladder of ropes was doubtless left there by the young Lady in hope of them .

Vio.

Hark , I hear a noise in the Garden .

Lau.

I fear we are betray'd .

Cam.

Fear nothing , Madam , but stand close .

Ben.

Now , Benito , is the time to hold forth thy tallent , and to set up for thy self . Yes , Ladies , you shall be Serenaded , and when I have display'd my gifts , I 'll retire in Triumph over the Wall , and hug my self for the adventure . He fums on the Guittar .

Vio.

Let us make haste , Sister , and get into Covert , this Musick will raise the House upon us immediately .

Lau.

Alass , we cannot , the damn'd Musician stands just in the door where we should pass .

Ben. Singing . Eveillez vous , Belles endormies ; Eveillez vous : car il est jour : Mettez la tete a la fenestre Vous entendrez parler d'amour . Aur.

aside to Cam. Camillo , this is my incorrigible rogue ; and I dare not call him Benito , for fear of discovering my self not to be Benito .

Cam.

The alarm 's already given through the house . Ladies , you must be quick : secure your selves , and leave us to shift .

Exeunt Women .

Within . This way , this way .

Aur.

I hear 'em coming ; and , as ill luck will have it , just by that quarter where our Ladder is plac'd .

Cam.

Let us hide in the dark walk till they are past .

Aur.

But then Benito will be caught , and being known to be my man , will betray us .

Ben.

I hear some in the Garden : Sure they are the Ladies , that are taken with my melody . To 't again Benito ; this time I will absolutely inchant ' em . Fums again .

Aur.

He 's at it again . Why Benito , Are you mad ?

Ben.

Ah , Madam ! Are you there ? this is such a favour to your poor unworthy Servant .

Sings . But still between kissing Amintas did say , Fair Phillis look up , and you 'll turn night to day . Aur.

Come away , you unsufferable rascal , the House is up , and will be upon us immediately .

Ben. O Gemini , Is it you Sir ? Within . This way ; follow , follow . Aur.

Leave your scraping and croaking , and step with us into this Arbor .

Ben.

Scraping and Croaking ! 'Sfoot , Sir , either grant I sing and play to a Miracle , or I 'll justifie my Musick , though I am caught , and hang'd for 't .

Enter Mario and Servants . Mar.

Where is this Serenading Rascall ? If I find him , I 'll make him an example to all midnight Caterwaulers , of which this Fidler is the lewdest .

Ben.

O that I durst but Play my Tune out to convince him ! Soul of harmony ! Is this lewd ?

Playes and Sings softly . Cam.

Peace , dear Benito : We must flatter him .

Ben.

Singing softly . Mettez la tete : the Notes which follow are so sweet , Sir , I must sing 'em , though it be my ruin — Parler d' amour . Laura and Violetta in the Balcone .

Lau.

Yes , we are safe , Sister ; but they are yet in danger .

Vio.

They are just upon 'em :

Lau.

We must do something : Help , help ; Thieves , thieves ; we shall be murder'd .

Mar.

Where ? Where are they ?

Lau.

Here , Sir , at our Chamber door , and we are run into the Balcone for shelter : Dear Uncle , come and help us .

Mar.

Back again quickly : I durst have sworn they had been in the Garden . 'T is an Ignis fatuus I think that leads us from one place to another . Exeunt Mar. and Servants .

Vio.

They are gone . My dear Camillo , make haste , and preserve your self .

Cam.

May our next Meeting prove more propitious .

Aur.

to Benito . Come , Sirrah , I shall make you sing another note when you are at home .

Ben.

Such another word , and I 'le sing again .

Aur.

Set the Ladder , and mount first , you Rogue .

Ben. Mount first your self , and fear not my delaying : If I am caught , they 'll spare me for my playing . Sings as he goes off . Vous entendrez parler d'amour . Exeunt omnes .

ACT. III. SCENE I. The Front of the Nunnery . Hip. IAscanio , and Hippolita at the Grate . See you have kept touch , Brother , Asca.

As a man of honour ought , Sister , when he is challeng'd : and now , according to the Laws of Duel , the next thing is to strip , and , in stead of seconds , to search one another .

Hip.

We 'll strip our hands , if you please , Brother ; for they are the only weapons we must use .

Asca.

That were to invite me to my loss , Sister ; I could have made a full meal in the World , and you would have me take up with hungry commons in the Cloyster . Pray mend my fare , or I am gone .

Hip.

O , Brother , a hand in a Cloyster , is fare like flesh in Spain , 't is delicate , because 't is scarce . You may be satisfy'd with a hand , as well as I am pleas'd with the Courtship of a Boy .

Asca.

You may begin with me Sister , as Milo did , by carrying a Calfe first , you may learn to carry an Oxe hereafter : In the mean time produce your hand , I understand Nuns-flesh better than you imagine : give it me , you shall see how I will worry it . She gives her hand . Now Could not we thrust out our lips , and contrive a Kiss too ?

Hip.

Yes , we may ; but I have had the experience of it : it will be but half flesh , half Iron .

Asca.

Let 's try however .

Hip.

Hold , Lucretia is here .

Asca.

Nay , if you come with odds upon me , 't is time to call Seconds . Ascanio Hems.

The Prince and Lucretia appear . Luc.

Sir , though your Song was pleasant , yet there was one thing amiss in it , that was your Rallying of Religion .

Fred.

Do you speak well of my Friend Love , and I 'll try to speak well of your friend Devotion .

Luc.

I can never speak well of Love : 't was to avoid it that I entred here .

Fred.

Then , Madam , you have met your Man : for , to confess the truth to you , I have but counterfeited Love to try you ; for I never yet could love any Woman : and , since I have seen you , and do not , I am certain now I shall scape for ever .

Luc.

You are the best man in the World , if you continue this resolution ▪ Pray , then , let us vow solemnly these two things : the first , to esteem each other better than we do all the world besides ; the next , never to change our amity to love .

Fre.

Agreed Madam : shall I kiss your hand on 't ?

Luc.

That 's too like a Lover : or , if it were not , the narrowness of the Grate will excuse the ceremony .

Hip.

No , but it will not , to my knowledge : I have try'd every bar many a fair time over , and , at last , have found out one where a hand may get through , and be gallanted .

Luc.

giving her hand . There , Sir ; 't is a true one .

Fre.

kissing it . This , then , is a Seal to our perpetual friendship ; and a defyance to all Love.

Luc.

That seducer of virtue .

Fre.

That disturber of quiet .

Luc.

That madness of youth .

Fre.

That dotage of old age .

Luc.

That enemy to good humour .

Fre.

And , to conclude all , that reason of all unreasonable actions

Asca.

This Doctrine is abominable , do not believe it Sister .

Hip.

No , if I do , Brother , may I never have comfort from sweet youth at my extremity .

Luc.

But remember one article of our friendship , that though we banish Love , we do not Mirth , nor Gallantry ; for I declare , I am for all extravagancies , but just loving .

Fre.

Just my own humour ; for I hate gravity and melancholy next to love .

Asca.

Now it comes into my head , the Duke of Mantoua makes an entertainment to night in Masquerade : if you love extravagancy so well , Madam , I 'll put you into the head of one ; lay by your Nun-ship for an hour or two , and come amongst us in disguise .

Fre. My Boy is in the right , Madam . Will you venture ? I 'll furnish you with Masking-habits . Hip.

O my dear Sister , never refuse it : I keep the Keyes you know , I 'll warrant you well ' return before we are miss'd . I do so long to have one fling into the sweet World again before I die . Hang 't , at worst , 't is but one sin more , and then we 'll repent for all together .

Asca.

But if I catch you in the World , Sister , I 'll make you have a better opinion of the Flesh and the Devil for ever after .

Luc.

If it were known , I were lost for ever .

Fre.

How should it be known ? you have her on your side , there , that keeps the Keyes : and , put the worst , that you are taken in the World ; the World 's a good World to stay in ; and there are certain occasions of waking in a morning , that may be more pleasant to you than your Matins .

Luc.

Fie , Friend , these extravagancies are a breach of Articles in our Friendship : but well , for once , I 'll venture to go out ; Dancing and Singing are but petty transgressions .

Asca.

My Lord , here 's company approaching : we shall be discover'd .

Fred.

Adieu then , jusqu'a revoir ; Ascanio shall be with you immediately , to conduct you .

Asca.

How , Will you disguise , Sister ? Will you be a Man , or a Woman ?

Hip.

A Woman , Brother Page , for life : I should have the strangest thoughts if I once wore Breeches .

Asca.

A Woman , say you ? Here 's my hand , if I meet you in place convenient , I 'll do my best to make you one . Exeunt .

Enter Aurelian and Camillo . Cam.

But , Why thus melancholy , with Hat pull'd down , and the hand on the Region of the Heart , just the reverse of my Friend Aurelian , of happy memory ?

Aur.

Faith , Camillo , I am asham'd on 't , but cannot help it .

Cam.

But to be in Love with a Waiting-woman ! with an eater of Fragments , a Simperer at lower end of a Table , with mighty Golls , rough-grain'd , and red with Starching , those discouragers and abettors of elevated love !

Aur.

I could Love Deformity it self , with that good humour . She who is arm'd with Gayety and Wit , needs no other Weapon to conquer me .

Cam.

We Lovers are the great Creators of wit in our Mistrisses . For Beatrix , she a meer utterer of Yes and No , and has no more Sence than what will just dignifie her to be an arrant waiting-woman : that is , to lye for her Lady , and take your Money .

Aur.

It may be then I found her in the exaltation of her wit ; for , certainly , women have their good and ill dayes of talking , as they have of looking .

Cam.

But , however , she has done you the courtisy to drive out Laura : and so one Poyson has expell'd the other .

Aur.

Troth , not absolutely neither ; for I dote on Laura's beauty , and on Beatrix's wit : I am wounded with a forked Arrow , which will not easily be got out .

Cam.

Not to lose time in fruitless complaints , let us pursue our new contrivance , that you may see your two Mistresses , and I my one .

Aur.

That will not now be difficult : this plot 's so laid , that I defy the Devil to make it miss . The Woman of the house , by which they are to pass to Church , is brib'd ; the Ladies are , by her , acquainted with the design ; and we need only to be there before them , and expect the prey , which will undoubtedly fall into the net .

Cam.

Your Man is made safe , I hope , from doing us any mischief .

Aur.

He has dispos'd of himself , I thank him , for an hour or two : the Fop would make me believe that an unknown Lady is in love with him , and has made him an Assignation .

Cam.

If he should succeed now , I should have the worse opinion of the Sex for his sake .

Aur.

Never doubt but he 'll succeed : your brisk Fool that can make a Leg , is ever a fine Gentleman among the Ladies , because he 's just of their tallent , and they understand him better than a Wit.

Cam.

Peace , the Ladies are coming this way to the Chappel , and their Jaylor with 'em : let 'em go by without saluting , to avoid suspicion ; and let us go off to prepare our Engine .

Enter Mario , Laura , and Violetta . Aur.

I must have a look before we go . Ah , you little Divine rogue ! I 'le be with you immediately .

Exeunt Aur. and Cam. Vio.

Look you , Sister , there are our Friends , but take no notice .

Lau.

I saw them . Was not that Aurelian with Camillo ?

Vio.

Yes .

Lau.

I like him strangely . If his person were joyn'd with Benito's Wit , I know not what would become of my poor heart .

Enter Fabio , and whispers with Mario . Mar.

Stay , Neeces , I 'll but speak a word with Fabio , and go with you immediately .

Vio.

I see , Sister , you are infinitely taken with Benito's wit ; but I have heard he is a very conceited Coxcomb .

Lau.

They who told you so , were horribly mistaken : you shall be judge your self , Violetta ; for , to confess frankly to you , I have made him a kind of an appointment .

Vio.

How ! Have you made an Assignation to Benito ? A Serving-man ! a Trencher-carrying Rascal !

Lau.

Good words , Violetta ! I only sent to him from an unknown Lady near this Chappel , that I might view him in passing by , and see if his person were answerable to his conversation .

Vio.

But how will you get rid of my Uncle ?

Lau.

You see my project ; his man Fabio is brib'd by me , to hold him in discourse .

Enter Benito , looking about him . Vio.

In my conscience this is he . Lord , what a Monster of a Man is there ! With such a VVorkiday-rough-hewn face too ! for , faith , Heaven has not bestow'd the finishing upon 't .

Lau.

'T is impossible this should be Benito ; yet he stalks this way : from such a piece of animated Timber , sweet Heaven deliver me .

Benito

aside . This must of necessity be the Lady who is in Love with me . See , how she surveyes my Person ! Certainly one VVit knows another by instinct . By that old Gentleman , it should be the Lady Laura too . Hum ! Benito , thou art made for ever .

Lau.

He has the most unpromising Face , for a VVit , I ever saw ; and yet he had need have a very good one , to make amends for his face . I am half cur'd of him already .

Ben.

VVhat means all this Surveying , Madam ? you bristle up to me , and wheel about me , like a Turkey-cock that is making Love : Faith , How do you like my Person , ha ?

Lau.

I dare not praise it , for fear of the old Complement , that you should tell me , 'T is at my service . But , pray , Is your Name Benito ?

Ben.

Signior Benito , at your service , Madam .

Lau.

And have you no Brother , or any other of your Name , one that is a VVit , attending on Signior Aurelian ?

Ben.

No , I can assure your Ladiship : I my self am the only wit who does him the honour , not to attend him , but to bear him company .

Lau.

But sure it was another you , that waited on Camillo in the Garden , last night .

Ben.

It was no other Me , but me Signior Benito .

Lau.

'T is impossible .

Ben.

'T is most certain .

Lau.

Then I would advise you to go thither again , and look for the wit which you have left there , for you have brought very little along with you : your voice , methinks , too , is much alter'd .

Ben.

Only a little over-strain'd , or so , with Singing .

Lau.

How slept you , after your adventure ?

Ben.

Faith , Lady , I could not sleep one wink , for Dreaming of you .

Lau.

Not sleep for Dreaming ! VVhen the place falls , you shall be Bull-master-General at Court.

Ben.

Et tu Brute ! Do you mistake me for a Fool too ? then , I find there 's one more of that opinion besides my Master .

Vio.

Sister , look to your self , my Uncle's returning .

Lau.

I am glad on 't ; he has done my business : he has absolutely cur'd me . Lord , that I could be so mistaken !

Vio.

I told you what he was .

Lau.

He was quite another thing last night : never was Man so alter'd in four and twenty hours . A pure Clown , meer Elementary earth , without the least spark of Soul in him !

Ben.

But , tell me truly , Are not you in Love with me ? Confess the truth : I love plain-dealing : you shall not find me refractory .

Lau.

Away , thou Animal ; I have found thee out for a high and mighty fool , and so I leave thee .

Mar.

Come , now I am ready for you ; as little Devotion , and as much good Huswifery as you please : take example by me ; I assure you no body debauches me to Church , except it be in your Company . Exeunt .

Manet Benito ▪ Ben.

I am undone for ever : What shall I do with my self ? I 'll run into some Desart , and there I 'll hide my opprobrious head . No , hang 't , I won't neither ; all Wits have their failings sometimes , and have the fortune to be thought fools once in their lives . Sure this is but a copy of her countenance ; for my heart 's true to me , and whispers to me , she loves me still : well , I 'll trust in my own merits , and be confident .

A noise of throwing down water within . Enter Mario , Fabio , Laura , and Violetta . Lau.

shaking her Cloaths , Oh Sir , I am wet quite through my Cloaths , I am not able to endure it .

Vio.

Was there ever such an insolence ?

Mar.

Send in to see who lives there : I 'll make an example of 'em .

Enter Frontona . Fab.

Here 's the Woman of the House her self , Sir.

Fron.

Sir , I submit , most willingly , to any punishment you shall inflict upon me ; for , though I intended nothing of an affront to these sweet Ladies , yet I can never forgive my self the misfortune of which I was the innocent occasion .

Vio.

O I am ready to faint away .

Fron.

Alass , poor sweet Lady , she 's young and tender , Sir : I beseech you , give me leave to repair my offence , with offering my self , and poor House , for her accommodation .

Ben.

I know that Woman : there 's some villanous Plot in this , I 'll lay my life on 't . Now , Benito , cast about for thy credit , and recover all again .

Mar.

Go into the Coach , Neeces , and bid the Coach-man drive apace . As for you , Mistriss , your smooth Tongue shall not excuse you .

Lau.

By your favour , Sir , I 'll accept of the Gentlewoman's civility ; I cannot stir a step farther .

Fro.

Come in , sweet Buds of Beauty , you shall have a Fire in an inner Chamber , and if you please to repose your self a while , Sir , in another Room , they shall come out , and wait on you immediately .

Mar.

Well , if it must be so .

Fron.

whispering the Ladies . Your Friends are ready in the Garden , and will be with you as soon as we have shaken off your Uncle .

Ben.

A Cheat , a cheat , a rank one ; I smell it , old Sir , I smell it .

Mar.

What 's the matter with the Fellow ? Is he distracted ?

Ben.

No , 't is you are more likely to be distracted ; but that there goes some wit to the being mad , and you have not the least grain of wit to be gull'd thus grosly .

Fron.

What does the fellow mean ?

Ben.

The Fellow means to detect your villany , and to recover his lost reputation of a Wit.

Fron.

Why , Friend , What villany ? I hope my house is a civil house .

Ben.

Yes , a very civil one ; for my master lay in of his last Clap there , and was treated very civilly to my knowledge .

Mar.

How 's this , How 's this ?

Fron.

Come , you are a dirty Fellow , and I am known to be a person that —

Ben.

Yes , you are known to be a person that —

Fron.

Speak your worst of me , What person am I known to be ?

Ben.

Why , if you will have it , you are a little better than a procuress : you carry messages betwixt party and party , and , in one word Sir , she 's as arrant a Fruit-woman as any is about Rome .

Mar.

Nay , if she be a Fruit-woman , my Neeces shall not enter into her doors .

Ben.

You had best let them enter , you do not know how they may fructify in her house , for I heard her with these Eares whisper to 'm , that their Friends were within call .

Mar.

This is palpable , this is manifest ; I shall remember you , Lady Fruiterer , I shall have your baskets search'd when you bring Oranges again . Come away , Neeces ; and thanks honest Fellow for thy discovery . Exeunt Mario and VVomen .

Ben.

Hah couragio : Il Diavolo e morto . Now I think I have tickled it ; this discovery has re-instated me into the Empire of my wit again . Now , in the pomp of this atchievement , will I present my self before Madam Laura , with a Behold , Madam , the happy restauration of Benito .

Enter Aurelian , Camillo , and Frontona , overhearing him .

Oh , now , that I had the Mirrour , to behold my self in the fulness of my glory ! and , oh , that the domineering Fop my Master were in presence , that I might triumph over him ! that I might even contemn the wretched wight , the mortal of a groveling Soul , and of a debased understanding .

He looks about him and sees his Master .

How the Devil came these three together ? nothing vexes me but that I must stand bare to him , after such an enterprize as this is .

Aur.

Nay , put on , put on again , sweet Sir ; VVhy should you be uncover'd before the Fop your Master ? the wretched wight , the mortal of a groveling Soul.

Ben.

Ay , Sir , you may make bold with your self at your own pleasure : But for all that , a little bidding would make me take your Counsel and be cover'd , as Affairs go now .

Aur.

If it be lawful for a man of a debased understanding to confer with such an exalted wit , pray what was that glorious atchievement which rapt you into such an extasy ?

Ben.

'T is a sign you know well how matters go , by your asking me so impertinent a question .

Aur.

putting off his Hat to him . Sir , I beg of you , as your most humble Master , to be satisfy'd .

Ben.

Your Servant , Sir ; at present I am not at leisure for conference . But hark you , Sir , by the way of friendly advice , one word , henceforward tell me no more of the adventure of the Garden , nor of the great Looking-glass —

Aur.

You mean the Mirror .

Ben.

Yes , the Mirror ; tell me no more of that , except you could behold in it a better , a more discreet , or a more able face for stratagem , than I can , when I look there .

Aur.

But , to the business ; What is this famous enterprise ?

Ben.

Be satisfy'd , without troubling me farther , the business is done , the Rogues are defeated , and your Mistriss is secur'd : if you would know more , demand it of that Criminal , Pointing to Frontona . and ask her how she dares appear before you , after such a signal treachery , or before me , after such an overthrow ?

Fron.

I know nothing , but only that , by your Masters Order , I was to receive the two Ladies into my house , and you prevented it .

Ben.

By my Master's Order ? I 'll ne'r believe it . This is your stratagem , to free your self , and defraud me of my reward .

Cam.

I 'll witness what she sayes is true .

Ben.

I am deaf to all asseverations that make against my honour .

Aur.

I 'll swear it then . We two were the two Rogues , and you the discoverer of our Villany .

Ben.

Then , woe , woe , to poor Benito ! I find my abundance of wit has ruin'd me .

Aur.

But come a little nearer : I would not receive a good office from a Servant , but I would reward him for his diligence .

Ben.

Virtue , Sir , is its own reward : I expect none from you .

Aur.

Since it is so , Sir , you shall lose no further time in my service : henceforward pray know me for your humble Servant ; for your Master I am resolv'd to be no longer .

Ben.

Nay , rather than so , Sir , I beseech you let a good honest sufficient beating attone the difference .

Aur.

'T is in vain .

Ben.

I am loath to leave you without a guide .

Aur.

He 's at it again , do you hear , Camillo ?

Cam.

Prethy , Aurelian , be molify'd , and beat him .

Fron.

Pray , Sir , hear reason , and lay 't on , for my sake .

Aur.

I am obdurate .

Cam.

But , What will your Father say , if you part with him ?

Aur.

I care not .

Ben.

Well , Sir , since you are so peremptory , remember I have offer'd you satisfaction , and so long my conscience is at ease : what a Devil , before I 'lll offer my self twice to be beaten , by any Master in Christendome , I 'll starve , and that 's my resolution , and so your Servant that was Sir. Exit .

Aur.

I am glad I am rid of him ; he was my Evil Genius , and was alwayes appearing to me , to blast my undertakings : Let me send him never so farr off , the Devil would be sure to put him in my way , when I had any thing to execute . Come , Camillo , now we have chang'd the Dice , it may be we shall have better fortune .

SCENE . II. Enter the Duke of Mantoua in Masquerade , Frederick , Valerio , and others . On the other side Enter Lucretia , Hippolita , and Ascanio . Luc.

to Asca. The Prince I know already , by your description of his Masking-habit ; but , Which is the Duke his Father ?

Asca.

He whom you see talking with the Prince , and looking this way . I believe he has observ'd us .

Luc.

If he has not , I am resolv'd we 'll make our selves as remarkable as we can : I 'll exercise my tallent of Dancing .

Hip.

And I mine of Singing .

Duke

to Frederick . Do you know the Company which came in last ?

Fred.

I cannot possibly imagine who they are : at least I will not tell you — Aside .

Duke .

There 's something very uncommon in the Ayre of one of them .

Fred.

Please you , Sir , I 'll discourse with her , and see if I can satisfie your Highness .

Duke .

Stay , there 's a Dance beginning , and she seems as if she wou'd make one .

SONG and DANCE . Long betwixt Love and fear Phillis tormented , Shun'd her own wish yet at last she consented : But loath that day shou'd her blushes discover , Come gentle Night She said , Come quickly to my aid , And a poor Shamefac'd Maid Hide from her Lover . Now cold as Ice I am , now hot as Fire , I dare not tell my self my own desire ; But let Day fly away , and let Night hast her : Grant yee kind Powers above , Slow houres to parting Love , But when to Bliss we move , Bid 'em fly faster . How sweet it is to Love when I discover , That Fire which burns my Heart , warming my Lover ; 'T is pitty Love so true should be mistaken : But if this Night he be False or unkinde to me , Let me dye ere I see That I 'me forsaken .

After the Dance . My curiosity redoubles , I must needs hale that unknown Vessel , and enquire whither she 's bound , and what fraight she carries .

Fred.

She 's not worth your trouble , Sir : she 'll either prove some common Courtizan in disguise , or at best , some homely person of Honour , that only dances well enough to invite a sight of her self , and would look ill enough to fright you .

Duke .

That 's maliciously said ; all I see of her is charming , and I have reason to think her face is of the same piece , at least I 'll try my fortune .

Fred.

What an unlucky accident is this ! If my father should discover her , she 's ruin'd : if he does not , yet I have lost her conversation to night .

Duke approaches Lucretia . Asca.

'T is the Duke himself who comes to court you .

Luc.

Peace , I 'll fit him ; for I have been inform'd to the least title of his actions since he came to Town .

Duke

to Lucretia . Madam , the Duke of Mantoua , whom you must needs imagine to be in this company , has sent me to you , to know what kind of face there is belonging to that excellent shape , and to those charming motions which he observ'd so lately in your Dancing .

Luc.

Tell his Highness , if you please , that there is a Face within the Masque , so very deform'd , that if it were discover'd , it would prove the worst Vizor of the two ; and that , of all Men , he ought not to desire it should be expos'd , because then something would be found amiss in an entertainment which he has made so splendid and magnificent .

Duke .

The Duke I am sure would be very proud of your complement , but it would leave him more unsatisfy'd than before , for he will find in it so much of Gallantry , as , being added to your other graces , will move him to a strange temptation of knowing you .

Luc.

I should still have the more reason to refuse him ; for 't were a madness , when I had charm'd him by my motion and converse , to hazard the loss of that conquest by my eyes .

Duke aside . I am on fire till I discover her . At least , Madam , tell me of what Family you are . Luc.

Will you be satisfy'd if I tell you I am of the Colonne ; you have seen Iulia of that House .

Duke .

Then you are she .

Luc.

Have I not her Stature most exactly ?

Duke .

As near as I remember .

Luc.

But , by your favour , I have nothing of her shape ; for , if I may be so vain to praise my self , she 's a little thicker in the shoulders , and , besides , she moves ungracefully .

Duke .

Then you are not she again .

Luc.

No not she : but you have forgotten Emilia of the Ursini , whom the Duke saluted yesterday at her Balcone , when he enter'd . Her Ayre and Motion —

Duke .

Are the very same with yours . Now I am sure I know you .

Luc.

But there 's too little of her to make a Beauty : my stature is much more advantagious .

Duke .

You have cozen'd me again .

Luc.

Well , I find at last I must confess my self . What think you of Eugenia Beata ? the Duke seem'd to be infinitely pleas'd last night , when my Brother presented me to him at the Belvedere .

Duke .

Now I am certain you are she ; for you have both her stature , and her motion .

Luc.

But , if you remember your self a little better , there 's some small difference in our wit : for she has indeed the Ayre and Beauty of a Roman Lady , but all the dulness of a Dutch-woman .

Duke .

I see , Madam , you are resolv'd to conceal your self , and I am as fully resolv'd to know you .

Luc.

See which of our resolutions will take place .

Duke .

I come from the Duke , and can assure you he is of an humour to be obey'd .

Luc.

And I am of an humour not to obey him . But , Why should he be so curious ?

Duke .

If you would have my opinion , I believe he is in love with you .

Luc.

Without seeing me ?

Duke .

Without seeing all of you : Love is love , let it wound us from what part it please ; and if he have enough from your shape and conversation , his business is done , the more compendiously , without the face .

Luc.

But the Duke cannot be taken with my conversation , for he never heard me speak .

Duke

aside . ' Slife , I shall discover my self . Yes , Madam , he stood by , incognito , and heard me speak with you : but —

Luc.

I wish he had trusted to his own courtship , and spoke himself ; for it gives us a bad impression of a Princes wit , when we see fools in favour about his person .

Duke .

What ever I am , I have it in Commission from him to tell you , He 's in Love with you .

Luc.

The good old Gentleman may dote , if he so pleases ; but love , and fifty years old , are stark non-sense .

Duke .

But some men , you know , are green at fifty .

Luc.

Yes , in their understandings .

Duke .

You speak with great contempt of a Prince , who has some reputation in the world .

Luc.

No ; 't is you that speak with contempt of him , by saying he is in love at such an Age.

Duke .

Then , Madam , 't is necessary you should know him better for his reputation : and , that shall be , though he violate the Laws of Masquerade , and force you .

Fred.

I suspected this , from his violent temper . Aside . Sir , the Emperour's Ambassador is here , in Masquerade , and I believe this to be his Lady : it were well if you inquir'd of him , before you forc'd her to discover .

Duke .

Which is the Ambassador ?

Fred.

That farthermost . Duke retires farther .

Fred.

to Luc. Take your opportunity to escape , while his back is turn'd , or you are ruin'd . Ascanio , wait on her .

Luc.

I am so frighted , I cannot stay to thank you .

Exeunt Luc. Asca. and Hippolita . Duke

to Fred. 'T is a mistake , the Ambassador knows nothing of her : I 'm resolv'd I 'll know it of her self , ere she shall depart . Ha! Where is she ? I left her here .

Fred.

aside . Out of your reach , Father mine , I hope .

Duke .

She has either shifted places , or else slipt out of the Assembly .

Fred.

I have look'd round : she must be gone , Sir.

Duke .

She must not be gone , Sir. Search for her every where : I will have her .

Fred.

Has she offended your Highness ?

Duke .

Peace , with your impertinent questions . Come hither , Valerio .

Valerio .

Sir ?

Duke .

O , Valerio , I am desperately in love : that Lady , with whom you saw me talking , has — But I lose time ; she 's gone ; haste after her ; find her ; bring her back to me .

Val.

If it be possible .

Duke .

It must be possible ; the quiet of my life depends upon it .

Val.

Which way took she ?

Duke .

Go any way , every way ; ask no questions : I know no more , but that she must must be had . Exit Valerio .

Fred.

Sir , the assembly will observe , that —

Duke .

Damn the assembly , 't is a dull insignificant crowd , now she is not here : break it up , I 'll stay no longer .

Fred.

aside . I hope she 's safe , and then this fantastick love of my Fathers will make us sport too morrow . Exeunt .

SCENE III. Lucretia , Ascanio , Hippolita . Luc.

Now , that we are safe at the gate of our Covent , methinks the adventure was not unpleasant .

Hip.

And now that I am out of danger , Brother , I may tell you what a Novice you are in love , to tempt a young Sister into the wide World , and not to show her the difference betwixt that and her Cloyster : I find I may venture safely with you another time .

Asca.

O , Sister , you play the Brazen-head with me ; you give me warning when Time's past ; but that was no fit opportun●●y : I hate to snatch a morsel of Love , and so away ; I am for a set-meal , where I may enjoy my full gust ; but when I once fall on , you shall find me a brave man upon occasion .

Luc.

'T is time we were in our Cells . Quick , Hippolita , where 's the Key ?

Hip.

Here , in my pocket — No , 't is in my other Pocket — Ha — 't is not there , neither . I am sure I put it in one of them .

Luc.

What should we do , if it should be lost now ?

Hip.

I have search'd my self all over , and cannot find it .

Asca.

A woman can never search her self all over ; let me search you , Sister .

Luc.

Is this a time for Raillery ? Oh , sweet heaven ! speak comfort quickly ; Have you found it ?

Here Ascanio slips away . Exit . Hip.

Speak you comfort , Madam , and tell me you have it , for I am too sure that I have none on 't .

Luc.

O unfortunate that we are ! day 's breaking ; the handy-crafts shops begin to open . Clock strikes .

Hip.

The Clock strikes two : within this half hour we shall be call'd up to our Devotions . Now , good Ascanio — Alass he 's gone too ! we are left miserable , and forlorn .

Luc.

We have not so much as one place in the Town for a Retreat .

Hip.

O , for a Miracle in our time of need ! that some kind good-natur'd Saint would take us up , and heave us over the Wall into our Cells .

Luc.

Dear Sister , Pray ; for I cannot : I have been so sinful , in leaving my Cloyster for the World , that I am asham'd to trouble my Friends above to help me .

Hip.

Alass , Sister , with what face can I Pray , then ! Yours were but little vanities ; but I have sin'd swingingly , against my Vow ; yes , indeed , Sister , I have been very wicked ; for I wish'd the Ball might be kept perpetually in our Cloyster , and that half the handsome Nuns in it might be turn'd to Men , for the sake of the other .

Luc.

Well , if I were free from this disgrace , I would never more set foot beyond the Cloyster , for the sake of any Man.

Hip.

And here I Vow , if I get safe within my Cell , I will not think of Man again these seven years .

Ascanio Re-enters . Asca.

Hold , Hippolita , and make no more rash Vows : if you do , as I live , you shall not have the Key .

Hip.

The Key ! why , Have it you , Brother ?

Luc.

He does but mock us : I know you have it not , Ascanio .

Asca.

Ecce signum ; Here it is for you .

Hip.

O , sweet Brother , let me kiss you .

Asca.

Hands off , sweet Sister ; you must not be forsworn : you vow'd you would not think of a man these seven years .

Hip.

Ay , Brother , but I was not so hasty , but I had wit enough to cozen the Saint to whom I vow'd ; for you are but a Boy , Brother , and will not be a Man these seven years .

Luc.

But , Where did you find the Key , Ascanio ?

Asca.

To confess the truth , Madam , I stole it out of Hippolita's Pocket , to take the Print of it in Wax ; for , I 'll suppose , you 'll give my Master leave to wait on you in the Nunnery-garden , after your Abbess has walk'd the Rounds .

Luc.

Well , well , good morrow : when you have slept , come to the Grate for a Letter to your Lord. Now will I have the head-ach , or the Meagrim , or some excuse , for I am resolv'd I 'll not rise to Prayers .

Hip.

Pray , Brother , take care of our Masking-habits , that they may be forth-coming another time .

Asca.

Sleep , sleep , and dream of me , Sister : I 'll make it good , if you dream not too unreasonably .

Luc. Thus dangers in our Love make joyes more dear ; And Pleasure 's sweetest , when 't is mixt with fear . Exeunt .

ACT. IV. SCENE I. A Dressing-Chamber . The Masking-habits of Lucretia and Hippolita laid in a Chair . Fred. and Ascanio . Fred.

I Never thought I should have lov'd her . Is 't come to this , after all my boastings and declarations against it ? Sure I lov'd her before , and did not know it , till I fear'd to lose her : there 's the reason . I had never desir'd her , if my Father had not . This is just the longing of a Woman : she never finds the appetite in her self , till she sees the Meat on anothers Plate . I 'm glad however , you took the impression of the Key ; but 't was not well to fright them .

Asca.

Sir , I could not help it ; but here 's the effect on 't : the Workman sate up all night to make it . Gives a Key

Fred.

This Key will admit me into the Seraglio of the Godly . The Monastery has begun the War , in Sallying out upon the World , and therefore 't is but just that the World should make Reprizals on the Monastery .

Asca.

Alass , Sir , you and Lucretia do but skirmish ; 't is I and Hippolita that make the War : 't is true , opportunity has been wanting for a Battel , but the forces have been stoutly drawn up on both sides . As for your concernment , I come just now from the Monastery , and have Orders from you Platonick Mistriss to tell you , she expects you this evening in the Garden of the Nunnery ; withall , she deliver'd me this Letter for you .

Fred.

Give it me ,

Asca.

O , Sir , the Duke your Father !

The prince takes the Letter , and thinking to put it up bastily , drops it . Enter Duke . Duke .

Now , Frederick ! not abroad yet ?

Fred.

Your last nights entertainment left me so weary , Sir , that I over-slept my self this morning .

Duke .

I rather envy you , than blame you : our sleep is certainly the most pleasant portion of our lives . For my own part , I spent the night waking , and restless .

Fred.

Has any thing of moment happen'd to discompose your Highness ?

Duke .

I 'll confess my follies to you : I am in love with a Lady I saw last night in Masquerade .

Fred.

'T is strange she should conceal her self .

Duke .

She has , from my best search ; yet I took exact notice of her Masking habit , and describ'd it to those whom I employ'd to find her .

Fred.

aside . 'Sdeath , it lies there unremov'd ; and , if he turns himself , full in his eye . Now , now 't will be discover'd .

Duke .

For 't was extreamly remarkable . I remember very well 't was a loose long Robe , streak'd black and white , girt with a large Silver Ribband , and the Vizor was a Moor's Face .

Fred. Running to the Chair where the Habits are , sits down .

Sir , I beg pardon of your Highness for this Rudeness , I am — O , Oh —

Duke .

What 's the Matter ?

Fred.

I am taken so extreamly ill o' the sudden , that I am forc'd to sit before you .

Duke .

Alass , What 's your distemper ?

Fred.

A most violent griping , which pulls me together on a heap .

Duke .

Some cold , I fear , you took last night . Runs to the Door . Who waites there ? Call Physitians to the Prince .

Fred.

Ascanio , remove these quickly .

Ascanio takes away the habits , and Exit . Duke

returning . How do you find your self ?

Fre.

arising . Much better . Sir : that which pain'd me is remov'd : as it came unexpectedly , so it went as suddenly .

Enter Valerio . Duke .

The Ayre , perhaps , will do you good . If you have health , you may see those Troops drawn out , which I design for Millan .

Fred.

Shall I wait your Highness ?

Duke .

No , leave me here with Valerio ; I have a little business , which dispatch'd , I 'll follow you immediately . Well , What success , Valerio ? Exit Frederick .

Val.

Our indeavours are in vain , Sir : there has been inquiry made about all the Pallaces in Rome , and neither of the Masking-habits can be discover'd .

Duke .

Yet , it must be a Woman of Quality . What Paper 's that at my foot ?

Val.

taking up the Letter . 'T is Seal'd , Sir , and directed to the Prince .

Duke ,

taking the Letter . 'T is a Womans hand . Has he got a Mistriss in Town so soon ? I am resolv'd to open it , though I do not approve my own curiosity . Opens and Reads it .

Now my fear is over , I can laugh at my last nights adventure : I find that at Fifty all Men grow incorrigible , and Lovers especially ; for , certainly , never any Creature could be worse treated than your Father , ( How 's this , Valerio ? I am amaz'd ) and yet the good , old , out of fashion Gentleman heard himself Raillied , and bore it with all the patience of a Christian Prince . ( Now 't is plain , the Lady in Masquerade is a Mistriss of my Son 's , and the undutiful wretch was in the Plot to abuse me . ) Ascanio will tell you the latter part of our misfortune , how hardly we got into the Cloyster , ( A Nun too ! Oh , the Devil ! ) when we meet next , pray provide to laugh heartily , for there is subject sufficient for a plentiful fit , and fop enough to spare for another time

Lucretia .

Val.

Lucretia ! now the Mistery is unfolded .

Duke .

Do you know her ?

Val.

When I was last at Rome , I saw her often ; she is near Kinswoman to the present Pope ; and , before he placed her in this Nunnery of Benedictines , was the most celebrated Beauty of the Town .

Duke .

I know I ought to hate this Woman , because she has affronted me thus grossly ; but yet I cannot help it , I must love her .

Val.

But , Sir , you come on too much disadvantage to be your Son's Rival .

Duke .

I am deaf to all considerations : pr'ythee do not think of giving a Mad-man Counsel : pity me , and cure me , if thou canst ; but remember there 's but one infallible Medicine , that 's enjoyment .

Val.

I had forgot to tell you , Sir , that the Governour Don Mario is without , to wait on you .

Duke .

Desire him to come in .

Enter Don Mario . Mar.

I am come , Sir , to beg a favour from your Highness , and 't is on the behalf of my Sister Sophronia , Abbess of the Torr ' di Specchi .

Val.

Sir , she 's Abbess of that very Monastery where your Mistriss is inclos'd . Aside , to the Duke .

Duke .

I should be glad to serve any Relation of yours , Don Mario .

Mar.

Her request is , That you would be pleas'd to grace her Chappel this afternoon . There will be Musick , and some little Ceremony , in the Reception of my two Neeces , who are to be plac'd in Pension there .

Duke .

Your Neeces , I hear , are fair , and great Fortunes .

Mar.

Great vexations I 'm sure they are ; being daily haunted by a company of wild Fellows , who buz about my house like Flies .

Duke .

Your design seems reasonable ; Women in hot Countryes are like Oranges in cold : to preserve them , they must be perpetually hous'd . I 'll bear you company to the Monastery . Come , Valerio ; this opportunity is happy beyond our expectation . Exeunt .

SCENE II. Camillo , Aurelian . Cam.

He has smarted sufficiently for this offence : pr'ythee , dear Aurelian , forgive him ; he waits without , and appears penitent ; I 'll be responsible for his future carriage .

Aur.

For your sake , then , I receive him into grace .

Cam.

at the door . Benito , you may appear , your peace is made .

Enter Benito . Aur.

But , it must be upon conditions .

Ben.

Any conditions that are reasonable ; for , as I am a Wit , Sir , I have not eaten —

Aur.

You are in the path of perdition already ; that 's the principal of our Conditions , you are to be a Wit no more .

Ben.

Pray , Sir , if it be possible , let me be a little Wit still .

Aur.

No , Sir : you can make a Leg , and Dance ; those are no Tallents of a VVit : you are cut out for a brisk fool ▪ and can be no other .

Ben.

Pray , Sir , let me think 〈…〉 Wit , or my heart will break .

Cam.

That you will naturally do , as you are a Fool.

Aur.

Then , no farther medling with adventures , or contrivances of your own : they are all belonging to the Territories of wit , from whence you are banish'd .

Ben.

But what if my imagination should really furnish me with some —

Aur.

Not a Plot , I hope ?

Ben.

No , Sir , no Plot ; but some expedient then , to molify the word , when your invention has fail'd you ?

Aur.

Think it a temptation of the Devil , and believe it not .

Ben.

Then farewel all the happiness of my life .

Cam.

You know your doom , Benito , and now you may take your choice , whether you will renounce wit , or eating .

Ben.

VVell , Sir , I must continue my Body at what rate soever : and the rather , because now there 's no farther need of me in your adventures ; for I was assur'd , by Beatrix , this morning , that her two Mistrisses are to be put in Pension in the Nunnery of Benedictines , this afternoon .

Cam.

Then I am miserable .

Aur.

And you have defer'd the telling it till it is past time to study for prevention .

Cam.

Let us run thither immediately , and either perish in 't , or free them . You 'll assist me with your Sword ?

Aur.

Yes , if I cannot do 't to more purpose , with my counsel . Let us first play the fairest of our Game , 't is time enough to snatch when we have lost it . Exeunt .

SCENE III. A Chappel . The Duke , Valerio , Attendants . At the other door , Laura , Violetta , Beatrix , Mario . Instrumental and vocal Musick . In the time of which , Enter Aurelian and Camillo . After the Musick , Enter Sophronia , Lucretia , Hippolita , and other Nuns . Duke

to Valeria , who had whisper'd to him . I needed not those markes to know her . She 's one continu'd excellence ; she 's all over Miracle ,

Soph.

to the Duke . We know , Sir , we are not capable , by our Entertainments , of adding any thing to your pleasures , and therefore we must attribute this favour of your presence , to your piety and devotion .

Duke .

You have treated me with Harmony so excellent , that I believ'd my self among a quire of angels ; especially , when I beheld so fair a Troop behind you .

Soph.

Their Beauty , Sir , is wholly dedicated to Heaven , and is no way ambitious of a commendation , which from your mouth might raise a pride in any other of the Sex.

Cam.

I am impatient , and can bear no longer . Let what will happen —

Aur.

Do you not see your ruine inevitable ? Draw in a holy place ! and in the presence of the Duke !

Mar.

I do not like Camillo's being here : I must cut short the Ceremony . Whispers Sophronia ,

Soph.

to Lau. and Violet . Come , fair Cousins , we hope to make the Cloysteral life so pleasing , that it may be an inducement to you to quit the wicked world for ever .

Violetta passing by Camillo .

Take that , and read it at your leasure .

Conveyes a Note into his hand . Cam

A Ticket , as I live , Aurelian .

Aur.

Steal off , and be thankful : If that be my Beatrix with Laura , she 's most confoundedly ugly . If ever we had come to Love-work , and a Candle had been brought us , I had faln back from that face , like a Buck Rabbet in coupling .

Exeunt Camillo and Aurelian . Soph.

Daughters , the time of our Devotion calls us . All happiness to your Highness .

Luc.

to Hip. Little thinks my venerable old Love there , that his Mistriss in Masquerade is so near him . Now do I e'en long to abuse that Fop-gravity again .

Hip.

Methinks he looks on us .

Luc.

Farewell , poor love , I am she , I am , for all my demure looks , that treated thee so inhumanely last night .

She is going off , after Sophonia . Duke

following her . Stay Lady ; I would speak with you .

Luc.

Ah! ( screaking . )

Soph.

How now , Daughter ? What 's the meaning of that undecent noise you make ?

Luc.

aside . If I speak to him , he will discover my voice , and then I am ruin'd .

Duke .

If your name be Lucretia , I have some business of concernment with you .

Luc.

to Soph. Dear Madam , for Heavens sake make haste into the Cloyster , the Duke pursues me on some ill design .

Soph.

to the Duke . 'T is not permitted , Sir , for Maids once entred into Religion , to hold discourses here of worldly things .

Duke . But my discourses are not worldly Madam ; I had a Vision in the dead of night , Which show'd me this fair Virgin in my sleep , And told me , that from her I should be taught Where to bestow large Almes , and great Endowments , On some near Monastery . Soph. — Stay , Lucretia , The Holy Vision 's will must be obey'd . Exeunt Soph. cum suis. Luc.

aside . He does not know me , sure ; and yet I fear Religion is the least of his business with me .

Duke . I see , Madam , Beauty will be beauty in any habit . Though I confess , the splendor of a Court Were a much fitter Scene for yours , then is A Cloyster'd privacy . Luc. counter-feiting her voice . The World has no temptations for a mind So fix'd , and rais'd above it , This humble Cell contains and bounds my wishes . My Charity gives you my Prayers , and that 's all my Converse with humane kind . Duke .

Since when , Madam , have the World and you been upon these equal termes of hostility ? time was you have been better friends .

Luc.

No doubt I have been vain , and sinful ; but , the remembrance of those dayes cannot be pleasant to me now , and therefore , if you please , do not refresh their Memory .

Duke .

Their memory ! you speak as if they were Ages past .

Luc.

You think me still what I was once , a vain , fond , giddy creature ; I see , Sir , whether your discourses tend , and therefore take my leave .

Duke .

Yes , Madam , I know you see whither my discourses tend , and therefore 't will not be convenient that you should take your leave . Disguise your self no farther ; you are known , as well as you knew me in Masquerade .

Luc.

I am not us'd enough to the World , to interpret Riddles ; therefore , once more , heaven keep you .

Duke .

This will not do : your voice , your meen , your stature , betray you for the same I saw last night : you know the time and place .

Luc.

You were not in this Chappel ; and , I am bound by vow to stir no farther .

Duke .

But you had too much wit to keep that vow .

Luc. If you persist , Sir , in this raving madness , I can bring witness of my innocence . Is going . Duke .

To save that labour , see if you know that hand , and let that justifie you . ( Shows her Letter . )

Luc.

What do I see ! my ruine is inevitable .

Duke . You know you merit it : You us'd me ill , and now are in my power . Luc. But you , I hope , are much too noble To destroy the Fame of a poor silly Woman ? Duke . Then , in few words , for I am bred a Souldier , And must speak plain , it is your Love I ask : If you deny , this Letter is produc'd ; You know the consequence . Luc. I hope I do not : For , though there are appearances against me , Enough to give you hope I durst not shun you ; Yet , could you see my heart , 't is a white Virgin-Tablet , On which no Characters of earthly love Were ever writ : and , 'twixt the Prince and me ; If there were any Criminal affection , May heaven this minute — Duke . Swear not ; I believe you : For could I think my Son had e're enjoy'd you , I should not be his Rival . Since he has not , I may have so much kindness for my self To wish that happiness . Luc. You ask me what I must not grant , Nor if I lov'd you would : you know my vow of Chastity . Duke . Yet again that senceless argument ? The Vows of Chastity can ne're be broken , Where Vows of secrecy are kept : those I 'll swear with you . But 't is enough , at present , you know my resolution . I would perswade , not force you to my Love ; And to that end I give you this nights respite . Consider all , that you may fear or hope ; And think that on your grant , or your denial , Depends a double welfare , yours and mine . Exit . Luc.

A double ruine rather , if I grant : For what can I expect from such a Father , when such a Son betrayes me ! Could I think of all Mankind , that Frederick could be base . And , with the vanity of vulgar Souls betray a Virgins fame : one who esteem'd him , and I much fear did more than barely so — But I dare not examine my self farther ; for fear of confessing to my own thoughts , a tenderness of which he is unworthy .

Enter Hippolita . Hip.

I watch'd till your old Gallant was gone , to bring you news of your young one . A mischief on these old dry Lovers , they are good for nothing but tedious talking ; Well , yonder 's the Prince at the Grate ; I hope I need say no more to you .

Luc. I 'll come when I have recover'd my self a little . I am a wretched creature , Hippolita ; the Letter I writ the Prince — Hip.

I know it , is faln into his Fathers hands by accident . He 's as wretched as you too . Well , well , it shall be my part to bring you together ; and then , if two young people that have opportunity , can be wretched and melancholy — I 'll go before and meet Ascanio . Exit .

Luc.

I am half unwilling to go , because I must be accessary to her Assignation with Ascanio ; but , for once , I 'll meet the Prince in the Garden walk : I am glad however that he is less criminal than I thought him . Exeunt .

SCENE IV. The Nunnery-Garden . Hippolita , Ascanio , meeting Laura and Violetta . Hip.

I hear some walking this way . Who goes there ?

Lau.

We are the two new Pensioners , Laura and Violetta .

Hip.

Go in , to your devotion : these undue hours of walking savour too much of worldly thoughts .

Lau.

Let us retire to the Arbor , where , by this time , I believe our Friends are . Goodnight , Sister .

Hip.

Good Angels guard you . Exit Laura and Violetta . Now , Brother , the coast is clear , and we have the Garden to our selves , Do you remember how you threatened me ? but that 's all one . How good soever the opportunity may be , so long as we two resolve to be vertuous .

Asca.

Speak for your self , Sister , for I am wickedly inclin'd . Yet , I confess , I have some remorse , when I consider you are in Religion .

Hip.

We should do very well to consider that , both of us ; for , indeed , What should young people do , but think of Goodness and Religion ; especially when they love one another , and are alone too , Brother ?

Asca.

A curse on 't , here comes my Lord , and Lucretia . We might have accomplish'd all , and been repenting by this time ; yet who the Devil would have thought they should have come so soon ? — Ah — Sets his Teeth .

Hip.

Who the Devil would have put it to the venture ? This is alwayes the fault of you raw Pages : you that are too young , never use an opportunity ; and we that are elder can seldome get one . — Ah! Sets her Teeth .

Enter Frederick and Lucretia . Luc.

I believe , indeed , it troubled you to lose that Letter .

Fred.

So much , Madam , that I can never forgive my self that negligence .

Luc.

Call it not so , 't was but a casualty , though , I confess , the consequence is dangerous ; and therefore have not both of us reason to defy Love , when we see a little Gallantry is able to produce so much mischief .

Fred.

aside . Now cannot I , for my heart , bring out one word against this Love.

Luc.

Come , you are mute , upon a Subject that is both easie and pleasant . A man in Love is so ridiculous a creature —

Fred.

Especially to those that are not .

Luc.

True ; for to those that are , he cannot be so : they are like the Citizens of Bethlehem , who never find out one anothers Maddess , because they are all tainted . But for such antient Fops , as ( with reverence ) your Father is , What reason can they have to be in Love ?

Fred.

Nay , your old Fop's unpardonable , that 's certain — But —

Luc.

But What ? Come , laugh at him .

Fred.

But , I consider , he is my Father , I can't laugh at him .

Luc.

But , if it were another , we should see how you would insult over him .

Fred.

Ay , if it were another — And yet I don't know neither , 't is no part of good nature to insult : a man may be overtaken with a passion , or so , I know it by my self .

Luc. How , by your self ? you are not in love , I hope ? Oh that he would confess first now ! Aside . Fred. But , if I were , I should be loath to be laugh'd at . Luc.

Since you are not in Love , you may the better counsel me : What shall I do with this same troublesome Father of yours ?

Fred.

Any thing , but love him .

Luc.

But you know he has me at a Bay ; my Letter is in his possession , and he may produce it to my ruine : therefore if I did allow him some little favour , to mollify him —

Fred.

How , Madam ? would you allow him Favours ? I can never consent to it : not the least look or smile ; they are all too precious , though they were to save his life .

Luc.

What , Not your Father ? Oh that he wou'd confess he lov'd me first ! Aside .

Fred.

What have I done ? I shall betray my self , and confess my love , to be laugh'd at , by this hard-hearted Woman . Aside . 'T is true , Madam , I had forgot ; he is , indeed , my Father , and therefore you may use him as kindly as you please .

Luc.

He 's insensible : now he inrages me . Aside . What if he proposes to Marry me ? I am not yet profess'd , and 't would be much to my advantage .

Fred.

Marry you ! I had rather dye a thousand deaths , than suffer it .

Luc. This begins to please me . Aside . But , Why should you be so much my enemy ? Fred. Your enemy , Madam ? Why , Do you desire it ? Luc. Perhaps I do , Fred. Do it , Madam , since it pleases you so well . Luc. But you had rather dye , than suffer it . Fred.

No , I have chang'd my mind : I 'll live , and not be concern'd at it .

Luc.

Do you contradict your self so soon ? Then know , Sir , I did intend to do it ; and I am glad you have given me advice so agreeable to my inclinations .

Fred.

Heaven ! that you should not find it out ! I deliver'd your Letter on purpose to my Father , and 't was my business , now , to come and mediate for him .

Luc. Pray , then , carry him the news of his good success . Adieu , sweet Prince . Fred. Adieu , dear Madam . Asca.

Hey day ! What will this come to ? they have cozen'd one another into a quarrel ; just like friends in Fencing , a chance thrust comes , and then they fall to 't in earnest .

Hip.

You and I , Brother , shall never meet upon even termes , if this be not piec'd . Faces about , Madam , turn quickly to your Man , or by all that 's virtuous , I 'll call the Abbess .

Asca.

I must not be so bold with you , Sir ; but , if you please , you may turn towards the Lady , and I suppose you would be glad I durst speak to you with more authority , to save the credit of your willingness .

Fred.

Well , I 'll shew her I dare stay , if it be but to confront her Malice .

Luc.

I am sure I have done nothing to be asham'd of , that I should need to run away .

Asca.

Pray give me leave , Sir , to ask you but one question ; Why were you so unwilling that she should be Marry'd to your Father ?

Fred.

Because then , her Friendship must wholly cease .

Asca.

But , you may have her Friendship , when she is Marry'd to him .

Fred.

VVhat , when another had enjoy'd her ?

Asca.

Victoria , Victoria , he loves you , Madam ; let him deny it if he can .

Luc.

Fie , fie , love me , Ascanio ! I hope he would not forswear himself , when he has rail'd so much against it .

Fred.

I hope I may love your mind , Madam ; I may Love Spiritually .

Hip.

That 's enough , that 's enough : let him love the mind without the body if he can .

Asca.

Ay , ay , when the love is once come so far , that Spiritual Mind will never leave pulling , and pulling , till it has drawn the beastly body after it .

Fred.

VVell , Madam , since I must confess it , ( though I expect to be laugh'd at , after my railing against Love ) I do love you all over , both Soul and Body .

Asca.

Lord , Sir , VVhat a Tygress have you provok'd ! you may see she takes it to the death that you have made this declaration .

Hip.

I thought where all her anger was : VVhy do you not raile , Madam ? Why do you not banish him ? the Prince expects it ; he has dealt honestly , he has told you his Mind , and you make your worst on 't .

Luc.

Because he does expect it , I am resolv'd I 'll neither satisfie him nor you ; I will neither raile nor laugh : let him make his worst of that , now .

Fred.

If I understand you right , Madam , I am happy beyond either my deserts or expectation .

Luc.

You may give my words what interpretation you please , Sir , I shall not envy you their meaning in the kindest sence . But we are near the Jessamine-walk , there we may talk with greater freedom , because 't is farther from the House .

Fred.

I wait you , Madam . Exeunt .

SCENE . V. Aurelian with a dark Lanthorn , Camillo and Benito . Cam.

So , we are safe got over into the Nunnery-Garden ; for what 's to come , trust Love and Fortune .

Aur.

This must needs be the walk she mention'd ; yet , to be sure , I 'll hold the Lanthorn while you read the Ticket .

Cam.

reads . I prepar'd this Ticket , hoping to see you in the Chappel : come this evening over the Garden-wall , on the right hand , next the Tiber.

Aur.

( We are right , I see . )

Cam.

Bring only your discreet Benito with you , and I will meet you , attended by my faithful Beatrix . Violetta .

Ben.

Discreet Benito ! Did you hear that , Sir ?

Aur.

Mortifie thy self for that vain thought ; and , without enquiring into the mystery of these words , which I assure thee were not meant to thee , plant thy self by that Ladder without motion , to secure our retreat ; and be sure to make no noise .

Ben.

But , Sir , in case that —

Aur.

Honest Benito , no more questions : Basta is the word . Remember , thou art only taken with us , because thou hast a certain evil Daemon who conducts thy actions , and would have been sure , by some damn'd accident or other , to have brought thee hither to disturb us .

Cam.

I hear whispering not far from us , and I think 't is Violetta's voice .

Aur.

to Benito . Retire to your Post ; avoid , good Sathan .

Exit Benito . Enter Laura with a dark Lanthorn hid , and Violetta . Cam.

Ours is the honour of the Field , Madam ; we are here before you .

Vio.

Softly , dear friend , I think I hear some walking in the Garden .

Cam.

Rather , let us take this opportunity for your escape from hence ; all things are here in readiness .

Vio.

This is the second time we e're have met ; let us discourse , and know each other better first : that 's the way to make sure of some love before-hand ; for , as the world goes , we know not how little we may have when we are Marry'd .

Cam.

Losses of opportunity are fatal , in war , you know , and Love 's a kind of warfare .

Vio.

I shall keep you yet a while from close fighting .

Cam.

But , Do you know what an hour in Love is worth ? 'T is more precious than an Age of ordinary life ; 't is the very Quintesence and Extract of it .

Vio.

I do not like your Chymical preparation of love ; yours is all Spirit , and will fly too soon : I must see it fix'd , before I trust you . But we are near the Arbor ; now our out guards are set , let us retire a little , if you please ; there we may talk more freely .

Exeunt . Aur.

to Laura . My Ladies Woman , methinks you are very reserv'd to night : pray advance into the Lists ; though I have seen your countenance by day , I can endure to hear you talk by night . Be cunning , and set your wit to show which is your best commodity : it will help the better to put off that drug , your Face .

Lau.

The coursest ware will serve such customers as you are : let it suffice , Mr. Servingman , that I have seen you too . Your face is the original of the ugliest Vizors about Town ; and for wit , I would advise you to speak reverently of it , as a thing you are never like to understand .

Aur.

Sure , Beatrix , you came lately from looking in your Glass , and that has given you a bad opinion of all faces . But since when am I become so notorious a fool ?

Lau.

Since yesterday ; for t'other night you talk'd like a man of sence : I think your wit comes to you , as the sight of Owles does , only in the dark .

Aur.

Why , When did you discourse by day with me ?

Lau.

You have a short memory . This afternoon , in the great street . Do you not remember when you talk'd with Laura ?

Aur.

But what was that to Beatrix ?

Lau. aside . ' Slife , I had forgot that I am Beatrix . But , pray , When did you find me out to be so ugly ? Aur. This afternoon , in the Chappel . Lau.

That cannot be , for I well remember you were not there , Benito : I saw none but Camillo , and his friend the handsome stranger .

Aur.

aside . Curse on 't , I have betray'd my self .

Lau.

I find you are an Impostor ; you are not the same Benito : your language has nothing of the Serving-man .

Aur.

And yours , methinks , has not much of the Waiting-woman .

Lau. My Lady is abus'd , and betray'd by you : but I am resolv'd I 'll discover who you are . Holds out a Lanthorn to him . How ? the Stranger ! Aur.

Nay , Madam , if you are good at that , I 'll match you there too . Holds out his Lanthorn . O prodigy ! Is Beatrix turn'd to Laura ?

Lau.

Now the question is , which of us two is the greatest cheat ?

Aur.

That 's hardly to be try'd , at so short warning : Let 's Marry one another , and then , twenty to one , in a Twelve Moneth we shall know .

Lau.

Marry ! Are you at that so soon , Signior ? Benito and Beatrix , I confess , had some acquaintance ; but Aurelian and Laura are meer strangers .

Aur.

That ground I have gotten as Benito , I am resolv'd I 'll keep as Aurelian . If you will take State upon you , I have treated you with Ceremony already ; for I have woo'd you by Proxy .

Lau.

But you would not be contented to bed me so ; or give me leave to put the Sword betwixt us .

Aur.

Yes , upon condition you 'll remove it .

Lau.

Pray let our Friends be judge of it ; if you please , we 'll find 'em in the Arbor .

Aur.

Content ; I am then sure of the Verdict , because the Jury is brib'd already . Exeunt .

SCENE VI. Benito meeting Frederick , Ascanio , Lucreria and Hippolita . Ben.

Knowing my own merits , as I do , 't is not impossible but some of these Harlotry Nuns may love me : Oh , here 's my Master ! now if I could but put this into civil termes , so as to ask his leave , and not displease him —

Asca.

I hear one talking , Sir , just by us .

Ben.

I am stoln from my post , Sir , but for one minute only , to demand permission of you , since it is not in our Articles , that if any of these Nuns should cast an eye or so —

Fred.

' Slife , we are betray'd ; but I 'll make this Rascal sure .

Draws and runs at him . Ben.

Help , Murder , Murder . Runs off .

Enter Aurelian and Camillo ; Laura and Violetta after them . Aur.

That was Benito's voice : we are ruin'd .

Cam.

Oh , here they are ; we must make our way .

Aur. and the Prince make a Pass or two confusedly , and fight off the Stage . The Women Schreek . Asca.

Never fear , Ladies . Come on , Sir ; I am your Man.

Cam.

stepping back . This is the Prince's Page , I know his voice , Ascanio ?

Asca.

Signior Camillo !

Cam.

If the Prince be here , 't is Aurelian is engag'd with him . Let us run in quickly , and prevent the mischief .

All go off . A little Clashing within . After which they all re-enter . Fred.

to Aur. I hope you are not wounded .

Aur.

No , Sir ; but infinitely griev'd that —

Fred.

No more ; 't was a mistake : but which way can we escape , the Abbess is coming , I see the Lights .

Luc.

You cannot go by the Gate then . Ah me , unfortunate !

Cam.

But over the Wall you may : we have a Ladder ready . Adieu , Ladies . Curse on this ill luck , where we had just perswaded e'm to go with us !

Fred.

Farewell , sweet Lucretia .

Lau.

Goodnight , Aurelian .

Aur.

I , it might have prov'd a good one : Faith , shall I stay , yet , and make it one , in spite of the Abbess , and all her Works ?

Lau. The Abbess is just here ; you will be caught In the Spiritual Trap , if you should tarry . Aur. That will be time enough when we two Marry . Exeunt severally .

ACT. V. SCENE I. Enter Sophronia , Lucretia , Laura , Violetta . Soph. BY this , then , it appears you all are guilty ; Only your ignorance of each others crimes Caus'd first that tumult , and this discovery . Good Heavens , that I should live to see this day ! Methinks these Holy Walls , the Cells , the Cloysters , Should all have strook a secret horror on you : And when , with unchast thoughts , You trod these lonely walks , you should have look'd The venerable Ghost of our first Foundress Should with spread arms have met you in her Shroud , And frighted you from Sin. Luc. Alass , you need not aggravate our crimes , We know them to be great beyond excuse , And have no hope , but only from your mercy . Lau. Love is , indeed , no plea within these Walls ; But , since we brought it hither , and were forc'd , Not led by our own choice , to this strict life — Vio. Too hard for our soft youth , and bands of love , Which we before had knit . Lau. — Pity your blood , Which runs within our veins , and since Heaven puts it In your sole power to ruine or to save , Protect us from the sordid avarice Of our domestick Tyrant , who deserves not That we should call him Uncle , or you Brother . Soph. If , as I might , with Justice I should punish , No penance could be rigorous enough ; But I am willing to be more indulgent . None of you are Profess'd : and since I see You are not fit for higher happiness , You may have what you think the world can give you . Luc. Let us adore you , Madam . Soph. — You , Lucretia , I shall advise within . Vio. — But for us , Madam ? Soph. For you , dear Neeces , I have long consider'd The injuries you suffer from my Brother , And I rejoyce it is in me to help you : I will endeavour , from this very hour , To put you both into your Lovers hands , Who , by your own confession , have deserv'd you ; But so as ( though 't is done by my connivance ) It shall not seem to be with my consent . Lau. You do an act of noble charity , And may just heaven reward it . Enter Hippolita and whispers Lucretia . Soph. Oh , you 're a faithful Portress of a Cloyster . What is 't you whisper to Lucretia ? On your Obedience tell me . Luc. — Since you must know , Madam , I have receiv'd a Courtship from the Prince Of Mantoua . The rest Hippolita may speak . Hip. His Page Ascanio is at the grate , To know from him , how you had scap'd this danger ; And brings with him those Habits — Soph. I find that here has been a long commerce . What Habits ? Luc.

I blush to tell you , Madam . They were Masking Habits , in which we went abroad .

Soph. O strange Impiety ! Well , I conclude You are no longer for Religious cloathing : You would infect our Order . Luc. kneeling . Madam , you promis'd us forgiveness . Soph. I have done ; for 't is indeed too late to chide . Hip.

With Ascanio , there are two Gentlemen ; Aurelian and Camillo I think they call themselves , who came to me , recommended from the Prince , and desir'd to speak with Laura and Violetta .

Soph.

I think they are your Lovers , Neeces .

Vio.

Madam , they are .

Hip.

But , for fear of discovery from your Unckle Mario , whose House you know , joyns to the Monastery , are both in Masquerade .

Soph. to Laura and Violetta . This opportunity must not be lost . You two shall take the Masking-habits instantly , And , in them , scape your jealous Unckle's eyes . When you are happy , make me so , by hearing your success . Kisses them . Exeunt Lau. and Vio. Luc. A sudden thought is sprung within my mind , Which , by the same indulgence you have shown , May make me happy too . I have not time To tell you now , for fear I lose this opportunity . When I return from speaking with Ascanio , I shall declare the secrets of my Love , And crave your farther help . Soph.

In all that virtue will permit you shall not fail to find it .

Exit Lucretia . Hip.

Madam , the foolish Fellow whom we took grows troublesome ; What shall we do with him ?

Soph. Send for the Magistrate ; he must be punish'd — Yet hold ; that would betray the other secret . Let him be strait turn'd out , on this Condition , That he presume not ever to disclose He was within these walls . I 'll speak with him : Come , and attend me to him . Exit Sophronia . Hip.

You fit to be an Abbess ? We that live out of the World , should at least have the common sence of those that live farr from Town ; if a Pedler comes by 'em once a year , they will not let him go without providing themselves with what they want .

Exit after Sophronia .

SCENE II. The Street . Aurelian , Camillo , Laura , Violetta : all in Masking habits . Cam.

This generosity of the Abbess is never to be forgot ; and it is the more to be esteem'd because it was the less to be expected .

Vio.

At length , my Camillo , I see my self safe within your Armes ; and yet , methinks , I can never be enough secure of you : for , now I have nothing else to fear , I am afraid of you ; I fear your constancy : they say possession is so dangerous to Lovers , that more of them die of Surfeits than of Fasting .

Lau.

You 'll be rambling too , Aurelian , I do not doubt it , if I would let you ; but I 'll take care to be as little a Wife , and as much a Mistriss to you , as is possible : I 'll be sure to be alwayes pleasant , and never suffer you to be cloy'd .

Aur.

You are certainly in the right : pleasantness of humour makes a Wife last in the sweet meat , when it will no longer in the Fruit. But pray let 's make haste to the next honest Priest , that can say Grace to us , and take our appetites while they are coming .

Cam.

That way leads to the Austin-Fryers , there lives a Father of my acquaintance .

Lau.

I have heard of him ; he has a mighty stroke at Matrimonies , and mumbles 'em over as fast , as if he were teaching us to forget 'em all the while .

Enter Benito , and over-hears the last speech . Ben.

Cappari ; that 's the voice of Madam Laura . Now , Benito , is the time to repair the lost honour of thy wit , and to blot out the last adventure of the Nunnery .

Vio.

That way I hear company ; let 's go about by this other street , and shun ' em .

Ben.

That voice I know too ; 't is the younger Sister , Violetta's . Now have these two most treacherously convey'd themselves out of the Nunnery , for my Master and Camillo , and given up their persons to those lewd Rascals in Masquerade ; but I 'll prevent ' em . Help there , Thieves and Ravishers , villanous Maskers , stop Robbers , stop Ravishers .

Cam.

We are pursu'd that way , let 's take this street .

Lau.

Save your selves , and leave us .

Cam.

We 'll rather dye than leave you .

Enter at several doors Duke of Mantoua and Guards , and Don Mario and Servants , with Torches . Aur.

So , now the way is shut up on both sides . We 'll dye merrily however : — have at the fairest .

Aurelian and Camillo fall upon the Dukes Guards , and are seiz'd behind by Mario 's Servants . At the drawing of Swords , Benito runs off . Duke .

Are these insolencies usually committed in Rome by night ? it has the fame of a well-govern'd City ; and methinks , Don Mario , it does somewhat reflect on you to suffer these Disorders .

Mar.

They are not to be hinder'd in the Carnival : you see , Sir , they have assum'd the Priviledge of Maskers .

Lau.

to Au. If my Unckle know us , we are ruin'd ; therefore be sure you do not speak .

Duke .

How then can we be satisfy'd this was not a device of Masking , rather than a design of Ravishing ?

Mar.

Their accuser is fled , I saw him run at the beginning of the scuffle ; but I 'll examine the Ladies .

Vio.

Now we are lost .

Duke coming near Laura takes notice of her Habit. Duke

aside . 'T is the same , 't is the same ; I know Lucretia by her Habit : I 'm sure I am not mistaken . Now , Sir , you may cease your examination , I know the Ladies .

Aur.

to Cam. How the Devil does he know ' em ?

Cam.

'T is alike to us ; they are lost both wayes .

Duke

taking Laura aside . Madam , you may confess your self to me . Whatever your design was in leaving the Nunnery , your reputation shall be safe . I 'll not discover you , provided you grant me the happiness I last requested .

Lau.

I know not , Sir , how you could possibly come to know me , or of my design in quitting the Nunnery ; but this I know , that my Sister and my self are both unfortunate , except your Highness be pleas'd to protect us from our Unckle ; at least , not to discover us .

Duke .

His Holiness your Unckle , shall never be acquainted with your flight , on Condition you will wholly renounce my Son , and give your self to me .

Lau.

Alass , Sir , For whom do you mistake me ?

Duke .

I mistake you not , Madam : I know you for Lucretia . You forget that your Disguise betrayes you .

Lau.

Then , Sir , I perceive I must disabuse you : if you please to withdraw a little , that I may not be seen by others , I will pull off my Mask , and discover to you that Lucretia and I have no resemblance , but only in our misfortunes .

Duke .

'T is in vain , Madam , this dissembling : I protest if you pull off your Mask , I will hide my Face , and not look upon you , to convince you that I know you .

Enter Benito . Ben.

So , now the fray is over , a man may appear again with safety . Oh , the Rogues are caught I see , and the Damsels deliver'd . This was the effect of my valour at the second hand .

Aur.

Look , look , Camillo , it was my perpetual Fool that caus'd all this , and now he stands yonder , lau●hing at his mischief , as the Devil is pictur'd , grinning behind the Witch upon the Gallows .

Ben.

to Mario . I see , Sir , you have got your Women , and I am glad on 't : I took 'em just flying from the Nunnery .

Duke

to Lau. You see that Fellow knows you too .

Mar.

Were these Women flying from a Nunnery ?

Ben.

These Women ? Hey day ! then , it seems , you do not know they are your Neeces .

Duke .

His Neeces , say you ? Take heed , Fellow , you shall be punish'd severely if you mistake .

Cam.

Speak to Benito in time , Aurelian .

Aur.

The Devil 's in him , he 's running down-hill full speed , and there is no stopping him .

Mar.

My Neeces ?

Ben.

Your Neeces ? Why , Do you doubt it ? I praise Heaven I never met but with two half-wits in my life , and my Master 's one of 'em ; I will not name the other , at this time .

Duke .

I say they are not they .

Ben.

I am sure they are Laura and Violetta , and that those two Rogues were running away with 'em , and that I believe with their consent .

Vio.

Sister , 'T is in vain to deny our selves ; you see our ill fortune pursues us unavoidably . Turning up her Masque . Yes , Sir , we are Laura and Violetta , whom you have made unhappy by your Tyranny .

Lau.

turning up her Mask . And these two Gentlemen are no Ravishers , but —

Ben.

How , no Ravishers ? yes , to my knowledge , they are — As he speaks , Aurelian pulls off his Mask . no Ravishers , as Madam Laura was saying ; but two as honest Gentlemen as e're broke bread : My own dear Master , and so forth !

Runs to Aurelian , who thrusts him back . Enter Valerio , and whispers the Duke , giving him a Paper , which he reads , and seemes pleas'd . Mar.

Aurelian and Camillo ! I 'll see you in safe custody , and , for , these Fugitives , go , carry 'em to my Sister , and desire her to have a better care of her Kinswomen .

Vio.

We shall live yet to make you refund our Portions . Farewell Camillo ; comfort your self ; remember there 's but a Wall betwixt us .

Lau.

And I 'll cut through that Wall with Vineger , but I 'll come to you , Aurelian .

Aur.

I 'll cut through the Grates with Aqua-sortis , but I 'll meet you . Think of these things , and despair and dye , old Gentleman .

Aurelian and Camillo are carry'd off on one side , and Laura and Violetta on the other . Ben.

All things go cross to men of sence : would I had been born with the brains of a Shop-keeper , that I might have thriven without knowing why I did so . Now must I follow my Master to the Prison , and , like an ignorant Customer that comes to buy , must offer him my back-side , tell him I trust to his honesty , and desire him to please himself , and so be satisfy'd . Exit .

Duke

to Valerio . I am overjoy'd , I 'll see her immediately : now my business with Don Mario is at an end , I need not desire his company to introduce me to the Abbess , this Assignation from Lucretia shows me a nearer way . Noble Don Mario , it was my business when this accident happen'd in the street to have made you a visit ; but now I am prevented by an occasion which calls me another way .

Mar.

I receive the intention of that honour as the greatest happiness that cou'd befall me : in the mean time , if my attendance —

Duke .

By no means , Sir , I must of necessity go in private , and therefore , if you please , you shall omit the ceremony .

Mar.

A happy even to your Highness . Now will I go to my Sister the Abbess , before I sleep , and desire her to take more care of her Flock , or , for all our Relation , I shall make complaint , and indeavour to ease her of her charge . Exit .

Duke .

So , now we are alone , What said Lucretia ?

Val. When first I p●ess'd her to this Assignation , She spoke like one in doubt what she should do ; She demur'd much upon the decency of it , And somewhat too she seem'd to urge , of her Engagement to the Prince : in short , Sir , I perceiv'd her wavering ; and clos'd with the opportunity . Duke .

O , when women are once irresolute , betwixt the former love and the new one , they are sure to come over to the latter : the wind , their nearest likeness , seldome chops about to return into the old corner .

Val.

In conclusion , she consented to the interview , and for the rest , I urg'd it not , for I suppose she will hear reason sooner from your mouth than mine .

Duke .

Her Letter is of the same tenor with her Discourse ; full of doubts and doubles , like a hunted Hare when she 's near tyr'd . The Garden , you say , is the place appointed ?

Val.

It is , Sir ; and the next half hour the time : but , Sir , I fear the Prince your Son will never bear the loss of her with patience .

Duke .

'T is no matter ; let the young Gallant storm to night , to morrow he departs from Rome .

Val.

That , Sir , will be severe .

Duke .

He has already receiv'd my commands to travel into Germany : I know it stung him to the quick ; but he 's too dangerous a Rival : the Souldiers love him too ; when he 's absent they will respect me more . Exeunt Guards .

But I defer my happiness too long ; dismiss my Guards there . The pleasures of old age brook no delay : Seldome they come , and soon they fly away . Exeunt .

SCENE III. Prince and Ascanio . Fred. 'T is true , he is my Father ; but when Nature Is dead in him , Why should it live in me ? What have I done , that I am banish'd Rome , The Worlds delight , and my Souls joy Lucretia , And sent to reel with midnight Beasts in Almain ? I cannot , will not bear it . Asca.

I 'm sure you need not , Sir : the Army is all yours ; they wish a youthful Monarch , and will resent your injuries .

Fred. Heaven forbid it . And yet I cannot lose Lucretia . There 's something I would do , and yet would shun The ill that must attend it . Asca.

You must resolve , for the time presses . She told me , this hour , she had sent for your Father : what she means I know not , for she seem'd doubtful , and would not tell me her intention .

Fred.

If she be false ; — yet , Why should I suspect her ? yet , Why should I not ? she 's a Woman ; that includes ambition , and inconstancy : then , she 's tempted high : 't were unreasonable to expect she should be faithful : well , something I have resolv'd and will about it instantly : and if my Friends prove faithful I shall prevent the worst .

Enter Aurelian and Camillo guarded .

Aurelian and Camillo ? How came you thus attended ?

Cam.

You may guess at the occasion , Sir ; pursuing the adventure which brought us to meet you in the Garden , we were taken by Don Mario .

Aur.

And , as the Devil would have it , when both we and our Mistresses were in expectation of a more pleasant lodging .

Fred.

Faith , that 's very hard , when a man has charg'd and prim'd , and taken aim , to be hinder'd of his shoot — Souldiers , release these Gentlemen ; I 'll answer it .

Cap.

Sir , we dare not disobey our Orders .

Fred.

I 'll stand betwixt you and danger . In the mean time take this , as an acknowledgment of the kindness you do me .

Cap.

Ay , marry , there 's Rhetorique in Gold : Who can deny these arguments ? Sir , you may dispose of our prisoners as you please ; we 'll use your name if we are call'd in question .

Fred.

Do so . Good-night good Souldiers . Exeunt Souldiers . Now , Gentlemen , no thanks , you 'll find occasion instantly to reimburse me of my kindness .

Cam.

Nothing but want of liberty could have hinder'd us from serving you .

Fred.

Meet me , within this half hour , at our Monastery ; and if , in the mean time , you can pick up a dozen of good Fellows , who dare venture their lives bravely , bring them with you .

Aur.

I hope the Cause is bad too , otherwise we shall not deserve your thanks : may it be for demolishing that cursed Monastery .

Fred.

Come , Ascanio , follow me . Exeunt severally .

SCENE IV. The Nunnery-Garden . Duke , Lucretia . Luc. In making this appointment , I go too far , for one of my profession ; But I have a divining Soul within me , Which tells me , trust repos'd in noble natures Obliges them the more . Duke . I come to be commanded , not to govern , Those few soft words you sent me , have quite alter'd My rugged nature ; if it still be violent , 'T is only fierce and eager to obey you , Like some impetuous flood , which Master'd once , With double force bends backward . The place of Treaty shows you strongest here ; For still the vanquish'd sues for peace abroad , While the proud Victor makes his termes at home . Luc. That peace , I see , will not be hard to make When either side shows confidence of noble dealing From the other . Duke . And this , sure , is our case , since both are met alone . Luc. 'T is mine , Sir , more than yours . To meet you single , shows I trust your virtue ; But you appear distrustful of my Love. Duke . You wrong me much , I am not . Luc. Excuse me , Sir , you keep a curb upon me : You awe me with a Letter , which you hold As Hostage of my Love ; and Hostages Are ne'r requir'd but from suspected Faith. Duke We are not yet in termes of perfect peace ; When e're you please to seal the Articles , Your pledge shall be restor'd . Luc. That were the way to keep us still at distance ; For what we fear , we cannot truly love . Duke . But how can I be then secure , that when Your fear is o're your love will still continue ? Luc. Make tryal of my gratitude ; you 'll find I can acknowledge kindness . Duke . But that were to forego the faster hold To take a loose , and weaker . Would you not judge him mad who held a Lion In chains of Steel , and chang'd e'm for a twine ? Luc. But love is soft , Not of the Lion's nature , but the Dove 's ; An Iron chain would hang too heavy on a tender neck . Duke . Since on one side there must be confidence , Why may not I expect , as well as you , To have it plac'd in me ? Repose your trust Upon my Royal word . Luc. As 't is the priviledge of womankind That men should court our Love , And make the first advances ; so it follows That you should first oblige ; for 't is our weakness Gives us more cause of fear , and therefore you , Who are the stronger Sex , should first secure it . Duke . But , Madam , as you talk of fear from me , I may as well suspect design from you , Luc. Design ▪ of giving you my Love more freely , Of making you a Title to my heart , Where you by force would reign . Duke . O that I could believe you ! but your words Are not enough disorder'd for true love ; They are not plain , and hearty , as are mine ; But full of art , and close insinuation : You promise all , but give me not one proof Of love before ; not the least earnest of it . Luc. And , What is then this midnight conversation ? These silent hours divided from my sleep ? Nay , more ; stoln from my Prayers with Sacriledge , And here transfer'd to you ? This guilty hand , Which should be us'd in dropping holy Beads , But now , bequeath'd to yours ? This heaving heart , Which only should be throbing for my sins , But which now beats uneven time for you ? These are my arts ! and these are my designs ! Duke . I love you more , Lucretia , than my Soul ; Nay , than yours too , for I would venture both That I might now enjoy you ; and if what You ask me did not make me fear to lose you , Though it were even my life , you should not be deny'd it . Luc. Then I will ask no more . Keep my Letter , to upbraid me with it ; To Say , when I am sully'd with your Lust , And fit to be forsaken , Go , Lucretia , To your first love ; for this , for this , I leave you . Duke . Oh , Madam , never think that day can come ! Luc. It must , it will , I read it in your looks ; You will betray me when I 'm once engag'd . Duke . If not my Faith , your Beauty will secure you . Luc. My Beauty is a Flower upon the stalk , Goodly to see ; but , gather'd for the scent , And once with eagerness press'd to your nostrils , The sweet's drawn out , 't is thrown with scorn away . But I am glad I find you out so soon : I simply lov'd , and meant ( with shame I own it ) To trust my Virgin-honour in your hands ; I ask'd not wealth , for hire ; and , but by chance , ( I wonder that I thought on 't ) beg'd one tryal , And , but for form , to have pretence to yield , And that you have deny'd me . Farewell : I could Have lov'd you , and yet , perhaps , I — Duke . O speak , speak out , and do not drown that word , It seem'd as if it would have been a kind one , And yours are much too precious to be lost . Luc. Perhaps — I cannot yet leave loving you . There ' t was . But I recall'd it in my mind , And made it false before I gave it Ayr. Once more , farewell — I wonnot ; Now I can say I wonnot , wonnot love you ▪ Going . Duke . You shall ; and this shall be the Seal of my affection . Gives the Letter . There , take it , my Lucretia ; I give it with more joy , Than I with grief receiv'd it . Luc. Good night ; I 'll thank you for 't some other time . Duke . You 'll not abuse my love ? Luc. No ; but secure my Honour . Duke . I 'll force it from your hands . Lucretia runs . Luc. Help , help , or I am ravish'd ; help , for heavens sake . Hippolita , Laura , and Violetta within , in several places . Within . Help , help Lucretia ; they bear away Lucretia by force . Duke . I think there is a Devil in every corner . Enter Valerio . Val.

Sir , the design was lay'd on purpose for you , and all the women plac'd to cry . Make haste away ; avoid the shame for heavens sake .

Duke

going . O , I could fire this Monastery !

Enter Frederick and Ascanio . ( Frederick entring speaks as to some behind him ) Fred.

Pain of your lives , let none of you presume to enter but my self .

Duke .

My Son ! O , I could burst with spite , and dye with shame , to be thus apprehended ! this is the baseness and cowardise of guilt : an Army now were not so dreadful to me as that Son , o're whom the right of Nature gives me power .

Fred. Sir , I am come — Duke . To laugh at first , and then to blaze abroad The weakness , and the follies of your Father . Val. Sir , he has Men in Armes attending him . Duke .

I know my doom then . You have taken a popular occasion ; I am now a ravisher of chastity , fit to be made prisoner first , and then depos'd .

Fred. You will not hear me , Sir. Duke . No , I confess I have deserv'd my fate ; For , What had these gray haires to do with Love ? Or , if th' unseemly folly would possess me , Why should I choose to make my Son my Rival : Fred. Sir , you may add you banish'd me from Rome , And from the light of it , Lucretia's eyes . Duke . Nay , if thou aggravat'st my crimes , thou giv'st Me right to justify'em : thou doubly art my slave , Both Son and Subject . I can do thee no wrong , Nor hast thou right t'arraign or punish me : But thou inquir'st into thy Fathers years ; Thy swift ambition could not stay my death , But must ride post to Empire . Lead me now : Thy crimes have made me guiltless to my self , And given me face to bear the publick scorn . You have a guard without ? Fred. I have some friends . Duke . Speak plainly your intent . I love not a sophisticated truth , With an allay of lye in 't . Fred. kneeling . This is not , Sir , the posture of a Rebel , But of a suppliant , if the Name of Son Be too much honour to me . What first I purpos'd , I scarce know my self . Love , Anger , and Revenge then rowl'd within me , And yet , ev'n then , I was not hurry'd farther Than to preserve my own . Duke . — Your own ! What mean you ? Fred. My Love , and my Lucretia ; which I thought In my then boyling passion , you pursu'd With some injustice , and much violence ; This led me to repell that force by force . 'T was easie to surprize you , when I knew Of your intended visit . Duke . — Thank my folly . Fred. But reason now has reassum'd its place , And makes me see how black a crime it is To use a force upon my Prince and Father . Duke . You give me hope you will resign Lucretia . Fred. Ah no : I never can resign her to you ; But , Sir , I can my life : which , on my knees , I tender , as th'attoning Sacrifice . Or if your hand ( because you are a Father ) Be loath to take away that life you gave , I will redeem your crime , by making it My own : So you shall still be innocent , and I Dye bless'd , and unindebted for my being . Duke embracing him . O Frederick , you are too much a Son , And I too little am a Father : You , And you alone , have merited Lucretia . 'T is now my only grief , I can do nothing to requite this virtue ; For to restore her to you Is not an act of generosity , But a scant , niggard Justice ; yet I love her So much , that even this little which I do Is like the bounty of an Usurer ; High to be priz'd from me , Because 't is drawn from such a wretched mind . Fred. kissing his hands . You give me now a second , better life ; But , that the gift may be more easie to you , Consider , Sir , Lucretia did not Love you : I fear to say ne'r would . Duke . You do well , to help me to o'recome that difficulty : I 'll weigh that , too , hereafter . For a love , So violent as mine , will ask long time , And much of reason , to effect the cure . My present care shall be to make you happy ; For that will make my wish impossible , And then the remedies will be more easie . Enter Sophronia , Lucretia , Violetta , Laura , Hippolita . Soph. I have , with joy , o'reheard this happy change , And come , with blessings , to applaud your conquest , Over the greatest of Mankind , your self . Duke . I hope 't will be a full , and lasting one . Luc. kneeling . Thus , let me kneel , and pay my thanks and duty . Both to my Prince , and Father ? Duke . Rise , rise , too charming Maid ; for yet I cannot Call you Daughter : that first name , Lucretia , Hangs on my lips , and would be still pronounc'd . Look not too kindly on me ; one sweet glance , Perhaps , would ruine both : therefore , I 'll go And try to get new strength to bear your eyes . Till then , Farewell . Be sure you love my Frederick , And do not hate his Father . Exeunt Duke and Valerio . Fred. at the door . Now , friends , you may appear . Enter Aurelian , Camillo , Benito . Your pardon . Madam , that we thus intrude On holy ground : your self best know it could not Be avoided , and it shall be my care it be excus'd . Soph. Though Soveraign Princes bear a priviledge , Of entring when they please within our walls , In others , 't is a crime past dispensation : And therefore , to avoid a publick scandal , Be pleas'd , Sir , to retire , and quit this Garden . Aur.

We shall obey you , Madam : But , that we may do it with less regret , we hope you will give these Ladies leave to accompany us .

Soph. They shall . And Neeces , for my self , I only ask you To justify my conduct to the world , That none may think I have betray'd a trust , But freed you from a Tyranny . Lau. Our duty binds us to acknowledge it . Cam. And our gratitude , to witness it . Vio. With a holy , and lasting remembrance of your favour . Fred.

And it shall be my care , either by reason to bend your Unckle's will , or , by my Father's interest , to force your Dowry from his hands .

Ben.

to Aur. Pray , Sir , let us make haste over these Walls again , these Gardens are unlucky to me : I have lost my reputation of Musick in the one of 'em , and of wit in the other .

Aur.

to Lau. Now , Laura , you may take your choice betwixt the two Benito's , and consider whether you had rather he should Serenade you in the Garden , or I in Bed to night .

Lau.

You may be sure I shall give Sentence for Benito ; for , the effect of your Serenading would be to make me pay the Musick nine Moneths hence .

Hip.

to Asca. You see , Brother , here 's a General Jayle-delivery : there has been a great deal of bustle and disturbance in the Cloyster to night ; enough to distract a Soul which is given up , like me , to contemplation : and therefore , if you think fit , I could een be content to retire , with you , into the World ; and , by way of Penance , to Marry you ; which , as Husbands and Wives go now , is a greater Mortification than a Nunnery .

Asca.

No , Sister , if you love me , keep to your Monastery : I 'll come now and then to the Grate and beg you a Recreation . But I know my self so well , that , if I had you one twelve Moneth in the world , I should run my self into a Cloyster , to be rid of you .

Soph. Neeces , once more farewell . Adieu , Lucretia : My wishes and my prayers attend you all . Luc. to Fred. I am so fearful , That , though I gladly run to your embraces , Yet , ventring in the World a second time , Methinks I put to Sea in a rough storm , VVith shipwracks round about me . Fred. My Dear , be kinder to your self , and me , And let not fear fright back our coming joyes ; For we , at length , stand reconcil'd to fare : And now to fear , when to such bliss we move , VVere not to doubt our Fortune , but our Love.

Epilogue . SOme have expected from our Bills to day To find a Satyre in our Poet's Play. The Zealous Rout from Coleman-street did run , To see the Story of the Fryer and Nun. Or Tales , yet more Ridiculous to hear , Vouch'd by their Vicar of Ten pounds a year ; Of Nuns , who did against Temptation Pray , And Discipline laid on the Pleasant way : Or that to please the Malice of the Town , Our Poet should in some close Cell have shown Some Sister , Playing at Content alone : This they did hope ; the other side did fear , And both you see alike are Couzen'd here . Some thought the Title of our Play to blame , They lik'd the thing , but yet abhor'd the Name : Like Modest Puncks , who all you ask afford , But , for the World , they would not name that word . Yet , if you 'll credit what I heard him say , Our Poet meant no Scandal in his Play ; His Nuns are good which on the Stage are shown , And , sure , behind our Scenes you 'll look for none . FINIS .