The Traitor

THE TRAYTOR .

Actus primus . Enter Pisano and Petruchio . Pisano .

Didst bid him come ?

Pet.

I did .

Pis. Goe backe agen , And tell him , I am gone abroad . Pet. Hee 's here Enter Cosm. Already Sir . Pis.

Oh Cosmo !

Cos. Deare Pisano , That I could let thee neerer , into me , My heart counts this embrace a distance , yet , Let us incorporate . Pis. I was woing Cosmo , My man , to tell thee , I was gone abroad , Before thou cam'st . Cos. How 's this ? your words and lookes Are strange , and teach me to inferre I am Not welcome , that on riper Counsell , you Doe wish my absence . Pis. What for telling truth ? Hee thus should ha but made thee fit to see Thy friend , thou com'st with expectation To heare me talke sence , dost not ? Cos.

Yes .

Pis. La now ! And to discourse as I was wont , of State , Our friendship , or of women , no such matter . Cos. This is more wild then usuall , your language I not so cleere as it was wont , it carries Not the same even thread although some words May knit , the sence is scatterd . Pis. Right , right Cosmo , The reason is , I ha straggled , And lost my selfe I know not where , in what Part of the world , and would not this be showne As well in him , to ha prepar'd thee now ? Cos.

What humour 's this Pisano , I am yet to understand ?

Pis. To understand ? why Cosmo , Had I not chang'd my Dialect and Method , What neede this tedious Apology ? That 's it , I would have had thee knowne before , Thou canst not understand me , yet thou hast A name in Florence , for a ripe young man , Of nimble apprehension , of a wise And spreading observation , of whom Already our old men doe prophesie Good , and great things , worthy thy faire dimensions . Cos. This is an argument above the rest , Pisano is not well ; for being temperate , He was not wont to flatter , and abuse His friend . Pis. Beside , there is another reason , Thou shouldst discover me at heart , through all These mist , thou art in love too , and who cānot , That feeles himselfe the heate , but shrewdly guesse At every symptome of that Wanton Feaver , Oh Cosmo ! Cos. What misfortune can approach Your happy love in fairest Amidea , You have beene long contracted , and have past The tedious hope , Himen , doth only waite An oportunity to light his torch , Which will burne glorious at your nuptiall : Let jealous , lovers feare and feele what t is To languish , talke away their blood , and strength ▪ Question their unkinde starres , you have game Before you sir . Pis. Before mee where ? why dost Thou mock me Cosmo ? shee 's not heere : Cos. It is No pilgrimage to travell to her lippe . Pis.

T is not for you .

Cos. How sir for mee ? y 'ave no Suspition , I can be guilty of A treason , to our friendship , be so just , If malice have been busie , with my fame , To let me know — — Pi. You hastily interpret , Thy pardon I have onely errd , but not With the least scruple of thy faith , and honor To mee , thou hast a noble Soule , and lou'st mee Rather too well , I would thou wert my enemy , That wee had been borne in distant climes , and never Tooke cement from our Simpathies in nature . Would wee had never seene , or knowne each other , This may seeme strange , from him , that loves thee Cosmo , More pretious then his life . Cos. Love mee , and , wish This seperation ? Pis. I will give thee proofe ; So well I love thee , nothing in the world Thy soule doth hartily affect , but I Doe love it too , does it not trouble thy Beleefe ? I weare not my owne heart about me , But thine exchangd , thy eyes let in my objects , Thou hear'st for me , talk'st , kissest , and enjoyst All my felicities . Cos.

What meanes this language ?

Pis. But what 's all this to thee ? go to Oriana , And bath thy lips in Rosy dew of kisses , Renew thy eye that lookes as Saturne hung Upon the lid , take in some golden beame , Shee 'le dart a thousand at one glance , and if At thy returne , thou findst I have a being In this vaine world , I le tell thee more . Exit . Cos.

But sir , you must not part so .

Pet. Not with my good will , I have no great ambition to be mad . Cos. Petruchio , let mee conjure thee , tell What weight hangs on thy Masters heart ? why does he Appeare so full of trouble ? Pet.

D' ee not guesse ?

Cos.

Point at the cause , I cannot .

Pet.

Why he loves —

Cos.

The beauteous Amidea , I know that .

Pet. Some such thing was , but you are his friend , my Lord , His soule is now devoted to Oriana , And he will dye for her , if this Ague hold him . Cos.

Ha .

Pet. Your doublet pinch you Sir ? I cannot tel ; But nere a woman in the world should make Me hang my selfe , it may be for his honour , Hee 'le choose another death , hee is about one ; For 't is not possible without some cure , He should live long , he has forgot to sleepe , And for his dyet , h 'as not eate this se'night As much as would choake a Sparrow , a Flie is An Epicure to him : Good sir , doe you counsell him . So , so , it workes ; Exit Cos. This was my Lord Lorenzoes plot , and I Ha' beene his Engine in the worke , to batter His love to Amidea , by praysing Oriana to him , he is here , my Lord . Enter Lorenzo attended . Lor.

Petruchio , where 's your Lord ? how moves the worke ?

Pet. To your owne wish my Lord , he has throwne off The thought of Amidea , and is mad For Cosmo's Mistris , whom by your instructions I have commended so — Lor.

My witty villaine !

Pet. Cosmo is with him , to whom cunningly I ha discover'd his disease , and I Beseech you interrupt 'em not . Lor. This may Have Tragicall effects Petruchio : For Cosmo , we shall prune his fortune thus , Oriana's wealth would swell him in the Seate , He growes too fast already , be still ours . Pet. My Lord , you bought my life , when you procur'd My pardon from the Duke . Exit Lor. Enter Pisa . and Cosmo . Pis. O friend , thou canst not be so mercifull , To give away such happinesse , my Love Is for some sinne I have committed , thus Transplanted , I look'd rather thou shouldst kill me , Then give away this comfort , t is a charity Will make thee poore , and 't were a great deale better That I should languish still , and dye . Cos. While I have art to helpe thee ? Oriana And I were but in treaty , howsoever , I were not worthy to be calld his friend , Whom I preferd not to a Mistris , if You can finde dispensation , to quit With Amidea , your first love , be confident Oriana may be wonne , and it were necessary You did prepare the Mother , be not modest — Pis. Each sillable is a blessing , harke Petruchio . Cos. There is an Engine leveld at my fate , And I must arme , Pis.

Away .

Exit Pet. Cos. This for thy comfort , Although some complements ha past betweene Me and Oriana , I am not warme Yet in the Mothers fancy , whose power may Assist you much , but loose no time , le ts follow . Pis.

Thou miracle of friendship !

Exeunt . Enter Duke Frederico , Florio , and Alonso . Du.

Letters to us ? from whom ?

Al.

Castruchio .

Du.

The exile ? whence ?

Al. Sienna my good Lord , It came inclos'd within my Letter , which Imposd my care and duty , in the swift Delivery . Fr.

The Duke is pale oth suddaine .

Du. A Palsey does possesse me , ha ? Lorenzo ? Our Cosen , the enemy of our life and State , My bosome Kinsman ? not too loud , the Traytor May heare , and by escape prevent our justice . Flo.

What Traytor ?

Du. Signior Alonso , come you hither , What correspondency maintaine you with this Castruchio ? Al. None my Lord , but I am happy In his election , to bring the first Voice to your fafety . Du. Most ingratefull man ! Turne Rebell ? I have worne him in my blood . Al.

T is time to purge the humour .

Du. I will do ot . Our guard , were he more precious , had he shar'd Our soule , as he but borrowes of our flesh , This action makes him nothing , had I beene In heaven , I could have lent him my eternitie , He turne conspirator ? oh the fate of Princes ! But stay , this paper speakes of no particular , He does not mention what designe what plot ▪ Al.

More providence is necessarie ,

Du. Right , right , good Alonso , thar' t an honst man And lov'st us well , what 's to be done ? Al. T is best To make his person sure , by this you may Discouer soonest who are of his faction Du. And at our leasure study of his punishment , Which must exceed death , every cōmon trespasse Is so rewarded , first apply all tortures To inforce confession , who are his confederates , . And how they meant to murder us , then some rare Invention to execute the Traytor , So as hee may bee halfe a yeare a dying , Will make us fam'd for justice . Enter Lorenzo Depazzi . Al. Hee is heere , Shal 's apprehend him ? Lo. Happy morning to My gratious Soveraigne . Du. Good morrow Cooze . Can Treason couch it selfe within that frame ? We ha letters for you . Lo. Letters , these dread sir Have no direction to mee , your highnes Is onely nam'd . Du. They will concerne your reading , Alonso now observe and watch him Florio , Depazzi come you hither , does Lorenzo Looke like a Traitor ? Dep.

How sir ? a Traitor ?

Du.

I sir .

Dep. I sir , by my honour not I sir , I defie Him that speakes it ; I am in a fine pickle Lor.

I ha read —

Du. No blush ? not tremble ? read agen The substance is , that you maintaine A vigilant eye over Lorenzo , who Hath threatned with your death , his countries liberty And other things , touching reducing of A common wealth . Du.

I like not that .

Dep. All 's out : A pox upon him for a Traitor , hee Has hedg'd meee in but I le confesse — Du. What answere Make you to this Lorenzo ? Lor. This o' th suddaine , Sir I must owe the title of a Traitor To your high favours ; Envy first conspir'd , And malice now accuses , but what story , Mentioned his name , that had his Princes bosome , Without the peoples hate , 't is sinne enough In some men to be great , the throng of stars The rout , and common people of the skie , Move still another way then the Sun does , That guilds the creature , take your honors back , And if you can , that purple of my veines , Which flowes in yours , and you shall leave mee in A state I sh'anot feare the great ones envy , Nor common peoples rage , and yet perhaps You may be credulous against mee . Du.

Ha!

All .

The Duke is coole .

Du. Alonzo looke you prove . Lorenzo what you say . All . I say my Lord ? I have discovered all my knowledge sir : Dep.

stand too 't —

Lo. With licence of your highnesse , what Can you imagine I should gaine by Treason ? Admit I should bee impious , as to kill you , I am your neerest kinsman , and should forfeit Both name and future title to the State , By such a hasty , bloody disposition , The rabble hate mee now , how shall I then Expect a safety ? is it reformation , Of Florence they accuse mee of ? suggesting I disaffect a Monarchy , which how Vaine and ridiculous would appeare in mee , Your wisedome judge , in you I liue and flowrish , What in your death can I expect , to equall The riches I enjoy under your warm'th ? Should I for the ayre , and talke of a new goverment , A Common wealth , loose all my certainties ? And you above 'em all , whose favours have Falne like the Dew upon mee ? have I a soule To thinke the guilt of such a murder easie , Were there no other torments ? or can I Expect the people will reward your murderer With any thing but death , a parricide ? Al.

So so the Duke 's already in his circle .

Lor. But I am tame , as if I had no sence Nor other argument to vindicate My Loyalty , thus poysoned by a paper , In my eternall fame , and by a slave ? Call to my brow , some one that dare accuse mee , Let him have honor , great as mine , to forfeit , Or since your grace hath taken me so neere , Your owne hight , that may seale may not expect Such a proportion'd adversary , yet let him Have name within his Country , and allow him A Soule , against which , I may ingage my more , Then equall honor , then I le praise your justice But let him not be one condemnd already , A desperate exile — is it possible A Treason hatcht in Florence , gainst the Duke Should have no eyes at home to penetrate , The growing danger but at Sienna , one Must with a perspectiue discouer all ? Aske this good Councellor , or these gentlemen Whose faiths are tryed , whose cares are always waking About your person , how have I appear'd To them , that thus I should be rendred hatefull , To you and my good Countrie , they are vertuous And dare not blemish a white faith , accuse My sound heart of dishonor ? sir you must Pardon my bold defence , my vertue bleeds By your much easinesse , and I am compelld To breake all modest limits , and to waken Your memory ( if it be not to late To say you have one , ) with the story of My faire deservings , who sir overthrow With his designes your late ambitious brother Hippolito , who like a Meteor threatned A blacke and fatall omen ? Du.

T was Lorenzo .

Lo. Be yet as just , and say whose art directed A countermine to check the pregnant hopes Of Saluiati , who for his Cardinals Cappe , In Rome was potent , and heere popular ? Du.

None but Lorenzo .

Dep.

Admirable Traitor ?

Lor. Whose service was commended when the exiles One of whose tribe accuseth mee had raisd Commotions in our Florence when the hindga Of State did faint under the burthen , and The people sweat with their owne feares , to thinke The Souldier should inhabit their calme dwellings , Who then rose up your safety , and crushd all Their plots to ayer ? Du.

Our deere Cozen Lorenzo .

Lor. When he that should reward , fogets the men That purchas'd his security , t is vertue To beast a merrit with my services I ha not staru'd your treasurie , the grand Captaine Gonzales accounted to King Ferdinand , Three hundred thousand crownes , for spies , what bills Have I brought in for such inteligence ? Dep. I doe grow harty All thy actions Stand fresh before us , and confirme , thou art Our best and dearest friend , thus wee assure Our confidence , they love us not that feed One jealous thought of our deare Cooze Lorenzo New welcome to us all , for you Alonzo Give o're your paper kites , learne wit , t is time . Where shall wee meet to night ? Lo.

Pardon mee sir I am a dangerous man .

Du. No more a that I 'le credit my soule with thee , shall wee revell This night with Amidea ? Dep. The Duke courts him , Well go thy waies , for one of the most excellent Impudent Traytors — Du. Yet a murmuring Of a Traitor ? wee shall sooner suspect him , That thinkes Lorenzo guilty . Dep. I my Lord , Dare boldly sweare , his honor is as free — From any treason , as my selfe , I did prophisie this issue . Duk. 'T is an age Till night , I long to fold her in my armes , Prepare Sciarrha , but be very wise In the discovery , hee is all touchwood . Lor. I know he is her brother , leave the managing Of things to mee . Tu. Still when we expect , Our blisse , time creepes , but when the happier things Call to enjoy , each sawcy houre hath wings . Exeunt .

ACTVS SECVNDVS . Enter Sciarrha and Lorenzo . Sciarrha . MY Sister , though hee be the Duke , he dares not , Patience , patience , if there be such a vertue , I want it Heaven , yet keep 't a little longer , It were a sinne to have it , such an injury Deserves a wrath next to your owne , my Sister ? It has throwne wild-fire in my braine Lorenzo , A thousand furies revell in my skull , Has he not sinnes enough in 's Court to damne him . But my Roofe must be guilty of new Iusts , And none but Amidea ? these the honours His presence brings our house ? Lo.

Temper your rage .

Sci. Are all the Brothels rifled ? no queint peece Left him in Florence , that will meete his hot And valiant luxury , that we are come To supply his blood out of our families ? Diseases gnaw his title off . Lo.

My Lord —

Sci. He is no Prince of mine , he forfeited His greatnesse , that blacke minute he first gave Consent to my dishonour . Lo.

Then I 'me sorry .

Sci. Why should you be sorry sir ? You say it is my Sister he would strumpet , Mine , Amidea ? t is a wound you feele not , But it strikes through , and through the poore Sciarrah , I doe not thinke , but all the ashes of My Ancestours doe swell in their darke urnes At this report , of Amidea's shame : It is their cause as well as mine , and should Heaven suffer the Dukes sinne to passe unpunishd , Their dust must of necessity conspire , To make an earthquake in the Temple . Lo. Sir , You said you would heare me out . Sci. Why is there more Behind ? Lo. And greater Master , your high blood Till I conclude Sciarrha , I accuse not Your noble anger , which I have observ'd , Is not on every cheape and giddy motion Inflam'd , but Sir , be thrifty in your passion , This is a petty trespasse . Sci. Has mischiefe any name Beyond this ? will it kill me with the sound ? Lo. My Lord , though the dishonouring your Sister , Be such a fact , the blood of any other But Alexander could no lesse then expiate , Yet this sinne stretches farther , and involves With hers , your greater staine did you e're promise him ? Yet why doe I make any question ? It were another crime , to thinke Sciarrah Could entertaine a thought , so farre beneath His birth , you stoope to such a horrid basenesse , Then all the vertue of mankind would sicken , And soone take leave of earth . Sci.

You torture me .

Lo. What then could the Duke finde , to give him any Encouragement you would be guilty of An act , so fatall unto honour , what When you were least your selfe ? ( as we are all Fraile compositions ) did appeare so wicked In you , he should conceave a hope , and flatter Himselfe with possibility , to corrupt Your Soule to a deed so monstrous ? Sci.

To what ?

Lo. Though all the teeming glories of His Dukedome , Nay Florence State offerd it selfe a bribe ▪ And tempted the betraying of your name To infamy , yet to imagine , you Would turne officious pander to his lust , And interpose the mercenary bewde To Court your Sister to his sinfull coupling : T is horrid , affrights nature , I grow stiffe With the imagination . Sci.

Hah !

Lo.

Yet this was his command I should impose .

Sci. Lorenzo , I doe want breath , my voice is ravisht from me , I am not what I was , or if I be , Sciarrha thou hast talkt too , all this while Looke heedfully about me , and thou maist Discover through some cranny of my flesh , A fire within , my soule is but one flame , Extended to all parts of this fraile building , I shall to ashes , I begin to shrinke , Is not already my complexion alter'd , Does not my face looke parchd , and my skin gather Into a heape ? my breath is hot enough To thaw the Alpes . Lo. Your fancy would Transport you . Sci. T is my rage , but let it coole , And then wee 'le talke o' something , something sir , Shall be to purpose . Lo. Now the flame is mounted , My Lord I have given proofe , although he be My Duke , and Kinsman , I abhorte his vices , How e're the world without examination , Shoote their malicious noise , and staine my actions : T is policy in Princes , to create A Favorite , who must beare all the guilt Of things ill mannag'd in the State , if any Designe be happy , t is the Princes owne . Heaven knowes , how I have counsell'd this young man , By vertue to prevent his fate , and governe With modesty : O the religious dayes Of Common-wealths ! We have out-liv'd that blessing . Sci. But I have thought a cure for this great State Impostume . Lo.

What ?

Sci. To lance it , is 't , not ripe ? Le ts draw cuts , whether your hand or mine Shall doe an act for Florence liberty , And send this Tyrant to another world . Lo.

How , I draw cuts ?

Sci. Coy it not thus Lorenzo , But answere , by thy name and birth , you are His Kinsman ; we all know it , that you dwell In 's bosome , great in favour , as in blood , We know that too , and let me tell you more : We know you but disguise your heart , and wish Florence would change her title . Lo.

How is this ?

Sci. We know you have firme correspondence with The banisht men , whose desperate fortunes waite Your call to tumult , in our streetes , all this , Not to feed your ambition with a Dukedome , By the remove of Alexander , but To serve your Countrey , and create their peace , Who groane under the Tyranny of a proud , Lascivious Monarch , is 't not true Lorenzo ? My phrase is blunt my Lord . Lo. My Genius And thine are friends , I see they have convers't And I Applaude the wisedome of my Stars , That made mee for his friendship , who preserves The same religious fire , I will confesse , When Alexander left his pietie To Florence , I plac'd him beneath my Countrie , As we should all , but we have lost our soules ' Or changd our active spirits , for a dull And lazie sufferance , let this secret bee an argument , how much I dare repose Vpon Sciarrahs honor , vertue witnesse , I chuse no other destinie , command Lorenzo'es fate , dissolve me with your breath , I le either ive , in your exchange of faith A patriot , or dy my Countries martir . Sci. Thou hast a fire beyound Prometheus To quicken earth , thy flame is but a prophsie Of that high paramide , the world shall build To thy immortall name : it was the glorie Of Romans to preferre their Empires safety To their owne lives , they were but men like us , And of the same ingredients , our soules Create of no inferiour substance ; ha ? Lo. Heaven knows I 've no particular designe To leape unto a throne , I will disclaime The priviledge of blood , let mee advance Our liberty , restore the ancient Lawes Of the republicke , rescue from the jawes Of lust your mothers , wives , your daughters , sisters , Sci.

Sisters .

Lo.

From horrid Rape las Amidea :

Sci. I am resolvd , by all that 's blest , hee dyes Returne my willingnesse to be his pander , My sisters readinesse to meete his Dalliance , His promises haue bought our shame , hee dyes , The roofe hee would dishonor with his Lust Shall be his toombe , bid him bee confident , Conduct him good Lorenzo , I le dispose My house for this great scene of death . Lo.

Be constant .

Exit . Enter Florio , and his Sister Amidea . Flo.

Now brother , what newes brings the great Lorenzo ?

Sci. Let me have truce vexation for some minutes , What newes ? preferments , honours , offices ; Sister , you must to Court . Am.

Who , I to Court ?

Sci. Or else the Court will come to you , the Duke Hath sent already for us Amidea : O that I knew what happy Starres did governe At thy Nativity : It were no sinne To adore their influence . Am.

What meanes my brother ?

Flo.

Hee 's transported .

Am.

I shall suspect your health .

Sci. I easily could forget I am Sciarrha , And fall in love my selfe , is she not faire , Exceeding beautifull , and tempting Florio ? Looke on her well , me-thinkes I could turne Poet , And make her a more excellent peece then heaven . Let not fond men hereafter command what They most admire , by fetching from the Starres Or flowers their glory of similitude ; But from thy selfe the role to know all beauty , And he that shall arrive at so much boldnesse , To say his Mistris eyes , or voice , or breath , Are halfe so bright , so cleare , so sweete as thine , Hath told the world enough of miracle . These are the Dukes owne Raptures , Amidea , His owne Poeticke flames , an argument He loues my Sister . Ami.

Love me ?

Sci. Infinitly , I am in earnest , he employ'd Lorenzo , No meaner person in this Embassie , You must to Court , Oh happinesse ! Ami.

For what ?

Sci , What doe great Ladies doe at Court I pray ? Enjoy the pleasures of the world , dance , kisse The Amorous Lords , and change Court breath , sing loose Beleefe of other , heauen , tell wanton dreames , Rehearse your sprightly bed-scenes , and boast , which Hath most Idolaters , accuse all faces , That trust to the simplicity of nature , Talke witty blasphemy , Discourse their gawdy wardrobes , plot new pride , Jeast upon Courtiers legs , laugh at the wagging Of their owne feathers , and a thousand more Delights , which private Ladies never thinke of : But above all , and wherein thou shalt make All other beauties envy thee , the Duke , The Duke himselfe shall call thee his , and single From the faire troope , thy person forth , to exchange Embraces with , lay siege to these soft lips , And not remoue , till he hath suck'd thy heart , Which soone dissolv'd with thy sweete breath , shall be Made part of his , at the same instant , he Conveying a new soule into thy breast , With a creating kisse . Ami. You make me wonder , Pray speake that I may understand . Sci. Why will you Appeare so ignorant ? I speake the dialect Of Florence to you , come , I finde your cunning ; The newes does please , the rolling of your eye Betrayes you , and I see a guilty blush Through this white veyle upon your cheeke , you wo'd Have it confirm'd , you shall , the Duke himselfe Shall sweare he loves you . Am.

Love me ? why ?

Sci. To Court , And aske him ; be not you too peevish now , And hinder all our fortune ; I ha promis'd him To move you for his arme-full , as I am Sciarrha , and your brother , more I ha sent Word to him by Lorenzo , that you should Meete his high flame , in plaine Italian Love him , and — Ami.

What for heaven , be the Dukes whoore ?

Sci.

No , no , his Mistris , command him , make us .

Ami.

Give up my Virgin-honour to his lust ?

Sci.

You may give it a better name , but doo 't .

Ami.

I doe mistake you brother , doe I not ?

Sci.

No , no , my meaning is so broad , you cannot .

Ami. I would I did then , is 't not possible That this should be a dreame ? where did you drop Your vertue Sir ? Florio , why move you not ? Why are you slow to tell this man ? for sure T is not Sciarrah , he hath talk'd so ill , And so much , that we may have cause to feare , The ayre about 's infected . Flo. Are not you My brother ? Sci. Be not you a foole , to move These empty questions , but joyne to make her Supple , and pliant for the Duke , I hope We are not the first ha bin advanc'd by a wagtaile : No matter for the talke of musty people , Looke up to the reward , thou art young , and skill'd In these Court temptings , naturally soft , And moving , I am rough hewne , assist , wo't , With some queint charme , to win her to this game ? Flo.

My Sister ?

Sci.

I , I .

Ami. Come not neere him Florio , T is not Sciarrha , sure my brothers Nurse Playd the impostor , and with some base issue Cheated our house . Sci. Gipsy , use better language , Or I le forget your sexe . Flo. Offer to touch her With any rudenesse , and by all that 's vertuous ▪ — Sci.

Why how now boy ?

Flo. I doe not feare your sword , This with my youth , and innocence , is more Defence then all thy armory , what Divell Has crept into thy soule ? Sci.

You le not helpe ?

Flo.

I le never kill thee .

Sc. T is very well , Have you consider'd better o' the motion ? Am.

Yes .

Sci.

And what 's your resolve

Am. To have my name Stand in the Ivorie register of Virgins , When I am dead , before one factious thought Should lurke within mee to betray my fame , To such a blot , my hands shall mutinie , And boldly with a poniard teach my heart To weepe out a repentance . Sci , Let mee kill thee My excellent chast sister , Floria Thou hast my soule , I did but trie your vertues , 'T is truth , the Duke does love thee , vitiously , Let him , let him , he comes to be our guest , This night he meanes to revell at our house , The Tarquine shall be entertained ; he shall , Serv.

My Lord , Pisano is come .

Sci. I had forgot his promise , Looke up Sister And shine with thy owne smiles , Pisano's come , Pisano thy contracted , honor'd freind , A gentleman so rich in hopes , wee shall Enter a Seruant . Bee happy in 's alliance . Enter Pisano , Cosmo , Freder . Welcome all , But you above the rest , my brother shortly , Sister and Florio entertaine your noble Freinds , some few minutes , I am absent , wee Must not forget prepare for the Dukes comming , I le soone returne Exit . Am. You are not cheerfull sir . How i st my Lord ? you were not wont to looke So sad when you came hither . Pis.

I am not well Amidea .

Am,

Oh my hart !

Pis , Bee you Comforted Lady let all greifs repaire To this , their proper Center . Flo.

Sir how fare you ?

Pis.

Alterd of late a little .

Fred. Vertuous Lady , I cannot chuse but pittie her , and accuse Pisano's levitie . Pis. Wo'd hee were come backe , I might ha finishd ere he went , and not Delay'd his businesse much , two or three words , And I had dispatch'd . Am. How sir ? your language is Another then you vse to speake , you looke not With the same brow upon mee . Cos. Las sweet Lady , But who shall accuse mee ? Pis. Wee shall expect to long , Lady I am come To render all my interest in your love , And to demand my selfe agen , live happier , In other choice Faire Amidea , t is Some shame to say my hearts revolted . Am.

Ha .

Pis. Heere 's witnesse , all is cancel'd betwixt us , Nay and you weepe — Farewell . Am.

Hee s gone .

Flo.

I am amazd .

Pis.

Now leade mee to my blessing .

Exit . Flo. Shall a long suite and speeding in his love With the worlds notice , and a generall fame Of contract too , just in the instant when A marriage is expected , bee broke off With infamy to our house . Am. Brother , if ever You lov'd poore Amidea , let not this Arive Sciarrhas eare ther 's danger in His knowledge of it , this may be a triall Of my affection Flo. A tryall ; no It shewd too like a truth Am. My teares intreate Your silence Flo. You have Power to command it , dry your eyes then , Hee 's return'd . Enter Sciarrha . Sci. How now , Weeping ? where is Pisano , and his friends ? Flo.

Their gon sir .

Sci

Ha!

Am. Guesse by my eyes , you may Somthing of sorrow hath befalne , no sooner You were departed , cut some strange distemper Invaded him , wee might discerne a change In 's countenance , and though wee prayd him to Repose with us , hee would straight back agen , So with Frederico , And signior Cosmo , he returnd . Flo.

The alteration was strange and suddaine .

Sci. Las noble gentleman — but come cleere up Your face agen , wee hope it wonot last , Looke bright agen I say , I ha given order — Enter Gentleman . Genu.

My Lord the Dukes already come .

Sci. Remoue , Good Amidea , and reserve thy person To Crowne his entertainement , be not seene yet . Exit Am. Enter Duke Lorenzo , Alonzo , attendants . Du.

Sciarrah , we are come to be your guest .

Sci.

Your highnes doth an honor to our house .

Du.

But wher 's thy Sister , she must bid us welcome

Sci.

She is your graces handmaid ,

Du. For this night , Let the whole world conspire to our delight . Lorenzo — Whisper . Lor.

Sir bee confident — and perish .

Enter Morosa , and Oriana in the garden . Mor. You shu'd not rashly give away your heart , Nor must you without me dispose your selfe , Pray give accesse to none — yet if Pisano Enquire , direct him to the garden , Cosmo Is young , and promising , but while Lorenzo Lives must expect no sun-shine . Enter Pisano , Cosmo , Servant . Pis. There 's for thy paynes , They are now at opportunity Cos. My Lord , Doe you prepare the Mother , and let me close With Oriana . Pis.

What service can reward thee ?

Cos. Take occasion To leave us private , this houre be Propitious , winne but the Matron to you . Pis.

She is prepard already

Cos. Loose no time Take the other walke . Exit Pis. & Mor. Ori.

My deare Cosmo :

Cos.

My best Oriana .

Ori.

You have bin too much absent I must chide you

Cos. You cannot sweet , I would I knew which way . To make thee angry , yes , that I might see How well it would become thee , I doe feare Thou art some Angell , and that sinne would bee An argument , to mee , that thou wert mortall I must suspect thy too much goodnesse else , And leave thee for the fellowship of Saints , I am to wicked . Ori.

You will make mee angry .

Cos.

But you will love mee still , I feare .

Ori. D' ee feare it ? I' st a misfortune ? Cos.

What ?

Ori.

My love

Cos. Your anger , And yet the tother often times may carrie An evill with it , wee may love to well And that 's a fault Ori.

Not where the objects good .

Cos.

Oyes : Alwayes beware of the extreames .

Ori. What meane you ? I affect none but my Cosmo , Nor him with too much flame . Cos. If you should Lady , 't were Not nobly done . Ori.

To love another ?

Cos. Yes , If there be cause , that may be call'd a vertue : For what have I to ingrosse the affection Of any Lady , if she can discerne A greater merit in some other man : Wisedome forbid , but she command her smiles , To warme and cherish him . Ori.

So we should be inconstant .

Cos. Why not , if our reason be Convincd , that 's no such fault as the world goes : Let us examine all the creatures , reade The booke of Nature through , and we shall finde Nothing doth still the same , the stars do wander And have their divers influence , the Elements Shuffle into innumerable changes , Our constitutions varie , Hearbs , and Trees Admit their Frosts and Summer : and why then Should our desires , that are so nimble , and More subtill then the spirits in our blood , Be such stayd things within us , and not share Their naturall liberty , shall we admit a change In smaller of things , and not allow it in What most of all concernes us ? Ori.

What ?

Cos.

Our Loves ?

Ori. Have you a suspition I am changd , and thus Would schoole me for it , or shall I imagine That you are alterd . Cos. Yes , I am , and therefore Proclaime thy freedome , I doe love thee lesse , To shew I love thee more . Ori.

What riddle 's this .

Cos. I will explaine , upon maturity Of Councell Oriana , I haue found I am not worthy of thee , therefore come To make thee satisfacton for my sinne Of loving thee , by pointing out a way , And person , will become thy affection better . Ori.

You have a pretie humour .

Cos. What dost thinke Of brave Pisano , shall his merit pleade Succession in thy chast thoughts ? Ori.

I doe know him .

Cos. Thou canst not chuse , and I could study none Worthy thy love but him . Ori.

T is very likely you would resigne then .

Cos. I to honor thee , His service will deserve thee at the best , And richest value . Ori.

Why it shall bee so .

Cos. Nay but be serious , and declare me happy That I may say , I have made thee just amends . I will thank thee . Ori.

Why sir I doe love him .

Cos. Oh when did Cupid aime that golden shaft But dost thou love him perfectly with a Desire , when sacred rites of marriage Are past , to meet him in thy bed , and call him Thy husband ? Ori. Why sir , did you ever thinke I was so taken with your worth , and person , I could not love another Lord as well ? By your favour , there be many as proper men , And as deserving , you may save your plea , And be assurd I need no lesson to Direct my fancie , I did love Pisano , Before , but for your sake , I meane to place him , A great deale neerer , sure he does but jeast . You did love mee . Cos.

Now by my heart . I love thee .

Cos. This act shall crowne our storie Oriana , Thou dost not know how much thou honorest me , For hee s not in the common list of freinds , And he does love thee past imagination Next his religion , he has plac'd the thought Of Oriana , hee sleepes nothing else . And I shall wake him into Heauen , to say Thou hast consented to be his . Ori. Pray tell me : But truely I beseech you , doe you wish Pisano mine indeede ? are you jealous , And name him to accuse me ? Cos. Not by goodnes , But if there be a charme beyond thy innocence , By that I would conjure thee Oriana , Love him and make three happy , it shall be My blisse to call you his , let me but o wne A servant in your memory . Ori. Unkinde , And cruell Cosmo , dost thou thinke it possible , I can love any but thy selfe ? thou wilt Undoe my heart for ever . Enter Pisano and Morossa . Mor. You shall be Ever most welcome , if I be her Mother , Shee must declare obedience , Oriana — Cos. Goe cheerefully , thy Mother calls , to him Whose Orator I have beene , alas poore Lady , I halfe repent me since she is so constant : But a friends life weighes downe all other love ; Beside , I thus secure my fate , Lorenzo Threatens my spring , he is my enemy . Ori.

You le not compell affection ?

Pis. No , but Court it With honour , and religion , thus invite it , Mor. I shall forget the nature of a Parent , Unlesse you shew more softnesse , and regard To what is urg'd , what promise could you make To Cosmo without me ? or if you had — Cos. Here Cosmo ' doth give up all title to it , I have no part in Oriana now : Ori. I 've heard too much , doe with me what you please I am all passive , nothing of my selfe , But an obedience to unhappinesse . Exit . Cos.

Follow her Pisano .

Pis.

Th' art all friendship .

Cos. Trace their warme steps , Virgins resolves are weake . Leave not her eyes , untill you see day breake . Exeunt .

ACTVS TERTIVS . Enter Depazzi and Rogero . Depazzi .

ROgero ?

Ro.

My Lord .

Dep.

Make fast the Chamber-doore , stiffle the key-hole and the crannies , I must discourse of secret matters , dost thou smell nothing Rogero ? ha ?

Ro.

Smell ? not any thing my Lord to offend my nostrill .

Dep. Come hither , what do the people talke abroad of me ? Answer me justly , and to the point what doe they say ? Ro.

Faith my Lord , they say that you are —

Dep.

They lie , I am not , they are a lousie impudent multitude , a many-headed , and many horned generation , to say that I am —

Ro.

A noble gentleman , a just and discreete Lord , and one that deserv'd to have his honours without money .

Dep.

Oh is that it ? I thought the rable would have sayd , I had beene a Traytor , I am halfe mad certainly ere since I consented to Lorenzo , t is a very hard condition , that a man must loose his head to recompence the procuring of his honours : what if I discover him to the Duke , ten to one , if Lorenzo come but to speake , his grace wonot ha the grace to beleeve me and then I runne the hazard to be throwne out of all atother side : t is safest to be a Traytor , hum , who is that you whisperd to ?

Ro.

I whisper ?

Dep.

Marry did you sirra .

Ro.

Not I good faith my Lord .

Dep.

Sirra , sirra , sirra , I smell a Rat behinde the hangings ? Here 's no body , ha ? are there no Trunkes to convey secret voices ?

Ro.

Your Lordship has a paire on .

Dep.

I doe not like that face i' th arras , a my conscience hee points at me , a pox upon this treason , I have no stomack too 't , I do see my selfe upon a Scaffold , making a pittiful speech already , I shall ha my head cut off , seaven yeares agoe I layd my head upon a wager I remember , and lost it ; let me see , it shall be so , t is good policie to be arm'd , Rogero , imagine I were a Traytor .

Ro.

How sir ?

Dep.

I but say imagine , we may put the case , and that I were apprehended for a Traytor .

Ro.

Heaven defend .

Dep. Heaven has somthing else to doe , then to defend Traytors : I say , Imagine I were brought to the barre . Ro.

Good my Lord , you brought to the barre ?

Dep. I will beate you , if you wonot imagine at my bidding : I say , suppose I now were at the barre to answere for my life . Ro.

Well sir .

Dep.

Well sir , that 's as it happens , you must imagine I will answere the best I can for my selfe , conceive I prithee , that these chaires were Iudges most grave and venerable beards and faces at my arraignement , and that thy selfe wert in the name of the Duke and state to accuse me what couldst thou say to me ?

Ro.

I accuse your good honour ? for what I beseech you ?

Dep.

For high Treason you blockehead .

Ro.

I must be acquainted with some particulars first .

Dep.

Masse thou saiest right : why imagine , d' ee heare ? you must but imagine , that some greatman had a conspiracy against the Dukes person , and that I being an honest Lord , and one of this great mans friends , had beene drawne in , for that 's the plaine truth on 't , t was against my will , but that 's all one : Well , thou understandst mee , shew thy wit Rogero , scratch thy nimble pericranium , and thunder out my accusation ex tempore : Here I stand Signior Depazzi , ready to answer the inditement .

Ro.

Good my Lord it will not become me , being your humble servant .

Dep.

Humble Coxcombe , is 't not for my good ? I say , accuse me , bring it home , jerke me soundly to the quicke Rogero , tickle me as thou lovst thy Lord ; I doe defie thee , spare me not , and the divell take thee if thou bee'st not malicious ,

Ro.

Why then have at you , first Signior Depazzi , thou art indicted of high Treason , hold up thy hand , guiltie , or not guilty ?

Dep.

Very good .

Ro.

Nay , very bad sir , answer I say , guiltie or not guiltie ?

Dep.

Not guiltie .

Ro.

T is your best course to say so , well imagine I rise up the Duke 's most learned in the Lawes , and his nimble tongu'd Orator , have at your Signior .

Dep.

Come , come on sir , here I stand .

Ro.

I will prove thou liest in thy throate , if thou deniest thy Treason , and so I addresse my selfe to the most vnderstanding seates of Justice , most wise , most honourable , and most incorrupt Judges , sleepe not I beseech you , my place hath call'd me to plead in the behalfe of my Prince and Countrie against this notable , this pernicious , and impudent Traitor , who hath plotted and contrived such high , hainous , and horrible treasons as no Age nor Historie hath ever mention'd the like . Here hee stands , whose birth I will not touch , because it s altogether unknowne who begot him : He was brought up among the smal wares in the Cittie , became rich by sinister and indirect practises , married a Merchants wife at adventures , and was soone after advanc'd to be a Head-officer .

Dep.

Why you rascall .

Ro.

Peace sirra , peace , nay your Lordships shall finde him very audacious : This fellow not content to have his branches spread within the Cittie , I speake it to his face , let him denie it , was afterward by the corruption of his confederate , and the meere grace of his highnesse raised to honour , received infinite favours from his Prince of blessed memorie , yet like a wretch , a villaine , a viper , a Rat of Nilus , he hath practised Treasons against the sacred person of the Duke , for which he deserveth not onely to die , but also to suffer tortures , whips , racks , strapadoes , wheeles , and all the fiery brazen bulls that can bee invented , as I shall make it appeare to this honourable and illustrious Court .

Dep.

This rogues transported .

Ro.

With all my heart I obey your Lordships — thus then I passe from these circumstances , and proceed to the principall villanies that wee have to lay to his charge . Imprimis thou Signior Depazzi didst offer to a groome a 100 crownes to poyson his highnes hunting saddle .

Dep.

Did I ?

Ro.

Do not interrupt mee varlet I will proove it , his hunting saddle , and woe shall be unto thy breech therefore , and finding this serpentive treason broken in the shell , doe but lend your reverend eares to his next designes I will cut em off presently . This irreligious nay Atheistical Traitor , did with his owne hands poyson the Dukes prayer booke , oh impiety ! and had his highnes as in former times , hee accustomed but pray'd once in a month , which by speciall grace hee omitted , how fatall had it beene to Florence ? but as by justice his excellence did then , and by his owne want of devotion , prevent this assasinates purpose , so we hope in his owne discretion , and the councell of his state , hee will take heed how he prayes hereafter while hee lives , to which every true subject will say Amen .

Dep.

May it please your honors —

Ro.

Thou impudent brazen fac'd Traitor , wilt thou deny it ? more over , and like your good Lordships , hee hath for this fortnight or three weekes before his apprehension , walk'd up and downe the Court with a case of pistols charg'd wherewith , as he partly confessed , hee intended to send the Duke to heaven with a powder .

Dep.

This rogue will undoe the Divell at inuention , may it please this honorable —

Ro.

These are but sprinklings of his treason .

Dep.

Will you justifie this ? did I any of these things you tadpole ?

Ro.

Hold your selfe contented my Lord , he that is brought to the barre in case of treason , must looke to have more objected then hee can answere , or any man is able to justifie .

Dep.

I confesse and please your good Lordships .

Ro.

Marke , hee will confesse .

Dep.

That 's the the way to be sent of a headles errand , indeed I confesse that I never intēded any treasō to his highnes , nor ever sought the princes life , true it is , that I heard of a conpiracie .

Ro.

That that my Lord hath overthrowne him , he saieth hee never sought the princes life , ergo he sought his death , besides he hath heard of treason , now he that heareth and discovereth not is equally guilty in fact : for in offences of this nature there are not accessaries , ergo hee is a principall , and beeing a principal Traitor , hee deserveth condemnation .

Dep.

Shall I not speake ?

Ro.

No , traitors must not be sufferd to speake , for when they have leave , they have liberty , and hee that is a Traitor deserveth to bee close Prisoner .

Dep.

All that this fellow hath vtterd , is false and forgd , abhominable lyes .

Ro.

I will speake truth , and I will be heard , and no man else in this place .

Dep.

I never dre'mt of a hunting saddle , nor never had so much as a thought of any prayer booke .

Ro.

You sit heare to do justice , I speak for the Duke and the safety of the common wealth .

Dep.

As for pistols , t is well knowne I could never indure the report one e'm , I defie powder and shot as I doe him that accuseth mee .

Ro.

I defie al the world that wil heare a Traitor speak , for himselfe , t is against the Law which provids that no man shal defend treason , and he that speakes for himselfe being a Traitor , doth defend his treason , thou art a Capitall obstreporous malefactor .

Dep.

Thou art a madman :

Ro.

Go to you have playd the foole too much .

Dep.

Thou continual motion cease , a pox upon thee hold thy tongue .

Ro.

The pox wonot serve your turne .

Dep.

Why then this shall .

Beates him . Ro.

Hold , hold good my Lord , I am sensible , I ha done , imagine I ha done , I but obeyd your Lordship , whose batoone I finde stronger then my imagination , my Lord you will answer this to stricke i' th Court thus ?

Dep.

I Am as wearie — harke Rogero one knocks , see , see ther 's to make thee amends see good

Knockes Rogero ,

and say nothing pray heaven it be no pursevant .

Enter Petruchio with a Letter . Ro.

Petruchio my Lord , Pisanoes Secretary .

Dep.

But Lorenzoes Engine a very knave ,

Pet.

My very good Lord .

Dep.

What 's here ? it can be no goodnesse :

Reades . My Lord I would not have you goe to bed to night , he wonot let me sleepe now , I dream't as much , something will be done to give Florence liberty : In the depth of night you may cunningly disperse some rumours in the Citty , that the Duke is dead , the people must be distracted , in the common fright be not you wanting in your person to assist their feares , and speake well of Lorenzo , speake well of the divell : my humble service to your Lord , and say he has power to command me in all things . Pet.

My very good Lord .

Dep.

No matter and you were both hang'd , Rogero , shew him the Wine-sellar : let me see , I must report the Dukes death , I cannot abide this word Death , yet he desires mee but to report it , hum , if it be false , why so much the better ; there will be the lesse harme in 't , if it should prove true , they will beleeve me another time : Well I will drinke my selfe halfe drunke , and be fortified .

Exeunt . Enter Duke , Amidea , Lorenzo , Sciarrha , Florio , &c. Du. Sciarrha , you exceede in entertainment , Banquet our y●s too . Lo.

He will feast all Senses .

Sci. Onely a toy my Lord , I cannot cal 't , A maske , not worthy of this presence , yet It speakes the freedome of my heart , and gratitude For this great honour . Du.

Amidea must sit neere us .

Sci. Lords your places , 't wonot be Worth halfe this ceremonie , let 'em begin . Enter Lust richly apparreld , the pleasures attending . Du.

Whose the presenter ?

Sci.

Lust sir , pray observe :

Lust . Now let Lust possesse the throne Of Love , and rule in hearts alone : You sweete tempters to my Sinne , Beauty , smiles , and kisses winne Vpon fraile mortals , let them know There is no happinesse , but you Shoot no arrowes tip'd with leade Each shaft have his golden head : Call no Love , delude men still , Through the flesh , their spirits kill , Nor spend all your art to take Common persons , greatnesse make By your potent charmes to bee Subjects unto hell and mee , Inflame but Kings with loose desire , Yee soone set all the world on fire . Enter a young man in rich habit and Crownd . Du.

What 's hee ?

Sci. A wild young man that followes lust , He has too much blood it seemes . Du.

Why lookes hee backe ?

Sci. There is a thing cald death that followes him With a large traine of furies , but the Syrens Of lust make him secure , and now the hagge Embraces him , and circles him with pleasures , The harpyes meane to dance too , hang his conscience It whines too much . Lo.

This is too plaine .

Sci. Hee does not tremble yet , By an by sir you shall see all his tormentors Joyne with 'em , ther 's the sport on 't . Lo. Mee thinks they Should have beene first forth ' antimaske . Lo. Oh no! In hell they doe not stand upon the methode As wee at Court , the ground maske and the glorie Begin the revells , Sister you doe ill To keepe the Duke in talke , he cannot see The divell for you , and the whipps : does not That deaths head looke most tēptingly ? the wormes Have kist the lips off . The furies joyne in the dance , and in the end carries the young man away . How does your highnesse like this dance ? Du. My eyes so feasted here , I did not marke it , But I presume 't was hansome . Sci. Oh the Lethargy Of Princes ! we ha kept you Sir from bed : More lights . Du. Good night to all , to you the best : Sciarrha binde us ever by performance . Sci.

We are all yours .

Du. And Florence thine , once more — Brightest of Ladies . Lo.

You are firme .

Sci.

Suspect not .

Exeunt all , but Amidea and Florio . Flo. I doe not like my brothers Morall Maske , The Duke himselfe was personated , I Wonder it did not startle him . Am. I hope Sciarrha does not meane so ill as that Did promise , he 's return'd : his lookes are full . Enter Sciarrha . Of threatning . Sci. Amidea , goe not to bed , And yet no matter , I can doo 't alone : Take both your rest , and in your prayers commend The Duke to Heaven , t is charity ; has made His will already , and bequeathd his body To you Sister , pitty his soule for 't , t is now Within few minutes of departing . Am.

How ?

Sci. Why this way I must helpe him in his groanes To bring his flesh a bed . Am.

You wonot kill him ?

Sci.

I am not of your minde .

Am.

I know you cannot .

Sci. You are not studied so perfect in His destiny I hope ; I will endeavour — Am.

To kill your Prince ?

Flo.

What here ?

Sci.

No , in his Chamber .

Am. Shall it be read in Stories of our Florence , Sciarrha first did staine his family With such a Treason ? Flo.

Was he not invited ?

Sci.

Yes , by his lust .

Flo. And in your crowned tables , And Hospitality will you murder him ? Sci. Yes , and the reason wherefore he was murderd , Shall justifie the deed to all posterity , He came to wrong my Sister . Flo. Wanton heate , Let youthfull blood excuse him . Sci.

So it must .

Flo. Mistake me not , oh thinke but who he is , The Duke , that word must needs awake your piety . Am. How will good men in this remembrance Abhorre your cruelty , that send to hell One with the weight of all his sinnes upon him . Sci. It is too late to coole with argument My incensed blood , will you goe dally with him , And let him bord your pinace : I ha gon So farre in promise , if you claspe not with him , It will be dangerous if he out-live This night . Am.

I ha thought on 't , send him to my bed .

Sc.

Ha ?

Am. Doe not question what I purpose , heaven Witnesse to my chast thoughts . Sci.

Wot thou trust him ?

Am. I will doe much sir , to preserve his life , And your innocence : be not you suspectfull At the worst , you can but respite your revenge . Sci. Dost thou not feare unhappy Luenesse chance , Or wretched Philomels dishonour ? Am. No : Give me his life , and send your wanton to me ; I le to my Chamber , feare me not Sciarrha , Have not one thought so bad , I sha' not prosper ; Virgins in heaven will suffer with me . Exit Am. & Flo. Flo.

Trust her ?

Sci. T is but deferring of my justice , Shee wonot kill him sure : draw on her soule The guilt shee hates in mine , if shee doe yeeld To the hot encounter : ha ? t will be just , That both their hearts weepe blood , to purge their lust . Exit . Enter Florio and Amidea . Flo.

My Ponyard ?

Ami. I 've no blacke intent To stain 't with any blood . Flo. Take it , I know , thou art my vertuous Sister , It were wickednesse to doubt thy purpose Or the event . Ami.

Now leave me .

Flo.

Thou hast a guard of Angels .

Ami.

They are comming .

Enter Sciarrlia & Duke . Sci.

Looke , there she is sir , you know how to undresse her .

Du.

Dearest Sciarrha .

Sci. To your recreation , here I le obscure my selfe , Florio ? t is well . Withdrawes behind the hangings . Du.

Lady you know me ?

Am.

Yes my Prince .

Du. I was so , Till I saw thee , but I gave up that title , A conquest to thy beauty , which among Her other wonders hath created me A subject and servant , and I shall Be happier to be receiv'd yours by One of those names then Duke of Tuscany . Am. Oh take your selfe agen , use your greatnes To make the hearts of Florence bow to you , And pay their duties thus . Du. Rise Amidea , And since you have given my power backe , it will Become me to command . Am.

And me to obey .

Du. I see thy noble brother hath bin faithfull To my desires , he has prepar'd thee with A storie of my love , which thou rewardst With too much humblenesse : thou hast a quarrell , And a just one with thy Stars , that did not make thee A Princesse Amidea , yet th' art greater , Aud borne to justifie unto these times A Queene of Love , Venus was but thy figure , And all her graces prophesies of thine , To make our last age best ; I could dwell ever Here , and imagine I am in a Temple , To offer on this Altar of thy lip , Kisses her often . Myriads of flaming kisses with a cloude Of sighes breathd from my heart , Which by the oblation would increase his stocke , To make my pay eternall . Am.

What meane you ?

Du. That question is propounded timely , hadst Not interrupted me , I should ha lost My selfe upon thy lips , and quite forgot There is a blisse beyond it , which I came for : Let others satisfie themselves to reade The wonders in thy face , make proud their eye , By seeing thine , turne statues at thy voice , And thinke they never fixe enough to heare thee . A man halfe dead with famine , would wish here To feed on smiles , of which the least hath power To call an Anchorite from his prayers , tempt Saints To wish their bodies on , thou dost with ease Captivate Kings with every beame , and maist Lead them like prisoners round about the world , proud of such golden chaines ; this were enough , Had not my Fate provided more , to make me Beleeve my selfe immortall in thy touches , Come to thy bed , transforme me there to happinesse ; I le laugh at all the fables of the gods , And teach our Poets after I know thee , To write the true Elizium . Am. Good my Lord , I understand you not , and yet I feare You doe not meane well , if you have brought with you A sinfull purpose which I may suspect . Du. Why Lady , what doe yon imagine I Came hither for ? Am.

I know not .

Du. How ? is 't come to that ? Your brother gave you more . Desirous of the sport , and brought me hither Ripe for your dalliance , did you not expect me ? Am.

Yes .

Du.

And to what other purpose ?

Am.

To tell you that you are not vertuous .

Du.

I 'm of your minde .

Am. But I am not so wicked To bee of yours : oh thinke but who you are , Your title speakes you neerest heaven , and points You out a glorious raigne among the Angels , Doe not depose your selfe of one , and bee Of the other disin'herited . Du. I would Your brother heard you , prethee doe not wast This tedious divinity , I am Resolvd to grapple with you . Am.

Keepe off .

Shewes the Ponyard . Du. Ha ? Turnd Amazon . Am. Prince , come not to neere mee . For by my honor , since you haue lost your owne , Although I bow in dutie to your person , I hate your black thoughts , tempt not my just hand With violent approach , I dare , and will Doe that will greeve you , if you have a soule . Du.

Thou dar'st not kill mee .

Am.

True , but I dare die .

Du.

Bee thy owne murderer ?

Am.

Rather then you should be my ravisher .

Du. Thou can'st not be so mercilesse , uslesse sin To be unchast , I am thy Prince , I prethee Throw by that cruell weapon , let our warre De soft embraces , shooting amorous smiles , Kill and restore each other with a kisse , I know thou canst not bee unkinde so long , Then I command thee . Am I must not obey To be your strumpet , though my hand be unskilfull , I shall soone finde my heart . Du.

I le not beleeve —

Am. Let this deserve your faith , I dare be just , Shee wounds her arme . This crimson river issuing from my arme . Du.

Hold .

Am. Never , it shall flow , and if this channell Yeeld not enough , I le stricke another veine , And after that another , and not pittie The murmuring streame , till through a prodigal wound I have draind the fountaine : this doth weepe for you , And shall extoll my death , if it may teach You to correct your blood . Du. There 's so much gone From mee I coole apace ; this action Hath shot an ague through me ; Amidea , Pitty thy selfe . Am. Not , till you sweare repentance ; I doe not faint yet , t is somewhat about , But I can finde a neerer way , this does it . Du. Containe , I am sorry , sorry from my soule , Trust me , I doe bleed inward , Amidea Can answere all thy drops : oh pardon mee , Thou faintst already , dost not ? I am fearefull , The Phoenix with her wings , when shee is dying Can fanne her ashes into another life : But when they breath more sweete then all the spice That helps the others funerall , returnes To heaven , the world must be eternall looser : Looke to thy wound . Am.

May I beleeve you sir ?

Du. I dare not thinke awry , agen I aske Forgivenesse , in thy innocence I see My owne deformitie . Enter Sciarrha , hastily embraceth Amidea , Enter Florio . Sci. Now a thousand blessings Reward thy goodnesse ; thou deservst a statue , A tall one which should reach above the clouds . Justle the moone , that people a farre off Beholding it , may be invited hither In hope to climbe to heaven by 't , but apply Betimes unto thy wound ; Florio assist her . Ex. Am. & Flo. And now my Lord — Du. Sciarrah I le begin to bee thy Lord , I brought intentions of dishonor to thee , And thy faire sister , but I am reconcil'd To vertue , and will studie how to satisfie For you and Florence . Sci. You will be more precious , Then had you never fallen , I am all joy in your conversion . Sci. Lorenzo ? I think he has not said his prayers yet , But — Du.

What ?

Sci.

I cannot tel , may be , he does not use it .

Du.

How ?

Sci. My Lord , you now are lovely , T were better you 'd forget him , hee 's not right At heart I feare . Du.

Feare nothing .

Sci. To be plaine , You cherrish your disease in him , and are Not safe while hee is neare you . Du.

Doe not envie him .

Sci. Then I must tell you sir he is a Traitor , Within my knowledge hath conspird your death . Du.

With whom ?

Sci. With mee , I should ha kild you sir This night , and every mineut hee expects To heare you numberd with the dead , I can Demonstrate this , your pardon , but in truth , The injuries you meant us were severe , And he with as much violence did urge em To your destruction , but your pietie Hath charm'd my purpose , and I looke uppon you With new obedience . Enter Florio . Du.

Possible .

Sci. Wee wonot shift the scene till you beleeve it , Florio , intreate my Lord Lorenzo hither , Step but but behinde the arras , and your eare Shall tell you who 's the greatest Traitor living , Observe but when I tell him , you are slaine , How hee le rejoice , and call mee Florence great Preserver , blesse my arme that in your blood , Hath given our groning state a libertie : Then trust Sciarrha , but obserue , I heere e'm Enter Lorenzo . Lo.

Whom talkd he too ?

Sci.

T is done —

Lo.

What good Sciarrha ?

Sci.

The Duke is dead .

Lo. Wee are not left so miserable , Heaven is more kinde to Florence . Sci. With this hand I made a passage for his soule . Lo. Defend Omnipotence , what murder'd ? and by noble Sciarrha ? how my eare abuses me ! Sci.

Did not wee plot it too ?

Lo. How wee ? collect , I feare you are not well : pray tell mee why You talke thus ? wher 's the Duke ? he hath a guard , An armie of heaven about him ; who in Florence , Dares be so blacke a divell to attempt His death . Sci. This is fine cunning , why that diuell is Lorenzo , if hee dars deny it , wee are in private , You need appeare no stranger to that 's done By your direction . Lo. I in the practice ? Then let me creepe into the earth , and rise A monster to affright man-kinde , Sciarrha , I must abhorre thee for it , oh my Prince ! My dearest kinsman , may thy hand rot off , Treason , treason . Sci. Then my sword shall fetch As they draw , the Duke interposes . another witnesse in thy heart Du.

Hold .

Lo. Tush , let him come , My royall Lord , nay , let him kill mee now , Ive so much joy and peace about mee , t were A sinne to wish my life beyond this minute . Du.

Put up I say .

Sci. My Lord , we are both cozend : That very smile 's a Traitor . Du. Come , be calme : You are too passionate Sciarrha , and Mistooke Lorenzo . Lo. But I hold him noble : I see hee made this triall of my faith , And I forgive him . Du.

Yee shall be friends , you shall I say .

Enter Cosmo and Alonzo . Cos.

The Duke —

Alon.

Where 's the Duke ?

Cos. My Lord , we are blest to see you safe , report Hath frighted all the Cittie with your death : People forsake their beds , and seeking how To be inform'd , increase the wretched tumult . Alon. There 's nothing but confusion : all men tremble As if some generall fire invaded Florence . Sci.

Have comfort sir .

Du.

What 's to be done ?

Lo. Depazzi has remembred , My Lord there is no safety for the State , Unlesse you personally appease 'em . Du.

How ?

Lo.

I hope thei le teare him , would he were dead any way .

Alon.

He hath counselld well .

Cos.

Your presence onely hath the power to charme 'em .

Du. I feare their rage : where is our Guard ? Alonzo , haste afore , proclaime our pardon , And that we live to give the offenders mercy . Why are we borne to greatnesse , mockt with State , When every tumult staggers our proud fate ? Sci.

Our quarrell is deferd Sir .

Exeunt .

ACTVS QVARTVS . Enter Lorenzo . MY plots thrive not , my Engines all deceive me ; And in the very point of their discharge Recoile with danger to my selfe : are there No faithfull villaines left in nature ? all Turn'd honest ? man nor spirit aide Lorenzo , Who hath not patience to expect his fate : But must compell it ? how Sciarrha plaid The dog-bolt wo 'me , and had not J provided Jn wisedome for him , that distresse had ruin'd me , His frozen Sister Amidea too Hath halfe converted him ; but J must set New wheeles in motion , to make him yet More hatefull , and then cut him from his stalke , Ripe for my vengeance : I le not trust the rabble Confusion on the giddy multitude , That but two minutes ere the Duke came at 'em , Bellow'd out libertie , shooke the Cittie with Their throates , no sooner saw him but they melted With the hot apprehension of a gallowes : And when a pardon was proclaimd , ( a fine State-snaffle for such Mules ) they turnd their cry To acclamations , and deaf'd Heaven to beg His long and prosperous reigne , a suddaine rot Consume this base heard , and the divell want , Any Cattle for his owne teeth , these are for him . Enter a Servant . Ser.

Sciarrha , my Lord desires to speake with you .

Lo. Sciarrha , come neere — you understand , admit him . Exit . Ser. Welcome my noble Lord , Enter Sciarrha . You were not wont to visite me . Sci.

Nor meane ever to do ot agen .

Lo. You bring frownes , J can be sullon too : what is your pleasure ? Sci.

You have abus'd me .

Lo.

You have injur'd me .

Sci.

Jn what ?

Lo.

Betraid me basely to the Duke .

Sci.

You deny'd then , you were a Traitor .

Lo. Yes , J was no foole to runne my necke upon The Axe , and give you such a cause of triumph , Were it agen in question — Sci. Y' are a villaine sir . And I must have it certified under your owne hand To shew the Duke . Lo. You shall be humbled to Confesse the contrary , nay subscribe That I am honest , and desire my pardon ; Looke , I have a sword , and arme , and vigour Dare fight with thee , didst ride upon a whirle-winde , Provoke me on a rocke , in waves , in fire ? And kill thee without scruple , such a strength Is innocence . Sci. Innocence ? dost not feare a thunder-bolt ? I shall be charitable to the world , and I Cut thee in peeces ; and yet then I feare Thou wo't come together againe : the divell does Acknowledge thee on earth the greater mischiefe , And has a feare when thou art dead , he sha'not Be safe in hell : thou wot conspire with some Of his blacke fiends , and get his kingdome from him : Didst not thou raile vpon the Duke ? Lo.

I grant it .

Sci.

Call him a Tyrant ?

Lo. More I doe confesse , I did exasperate you , to kill or murder him ; Give it what name you please , with joy I brought him Under the colour of your guest , to be The common sacrifice : all this I remember ; But is heavens stocke of mercy spent already , That sinnes though great and horrid , may not be Forgiven , to the heart that groanes with penitence ? Are the eternall fountaines quite seal'd up ? I was a Villaine , Traitor , Murderer , In my consenting to his death , but hope Those staines are now washt off . Sci.

Hast thou repented ?

Lo.

Trust me , I have .

Sci.

The divell is turn'd religious , augment not thy dānation .

Lo. As he was A lustfull Duke , a Tyrant , I had lost him In his returne to piety : he commanded My prayers , and fresh obedience to waite on him ; Hee 's now my Prince agen . Sci.

This is but cunning to save your life .

Enter divers gentlemen arm'd . Lo.

My life ? within there , ha ? welcome .

My gracious Lord .

2 Wil t please your honour Command my service ? 3

Or me ?

Or any ?

Our swords and lives are yours .

Sci. Perhaps your Lordship hath some businesse With these Gentlemen , I le take some other time . Lo. By no meanes good Sciarrha : You visite seldome , those are dayly with me , Men that expect imployment , that weare swords , And carry spirits , both to be engag'd , If I but name a cause : Gentlemen , draw . Sci.

My providence has betrayd me .

Lo. Now Sciarrha , you that with single valour dare come home To affront me thus ; know ; but too late , thy heart Is at the mercy of my breath : these swords Can fetch it when I please , and to prevent Your boast of this great daring : I beseech As you doe love and honour your Lorenzo , No hand advance a weapon , sheath agen , And leave us ; I owe service to your loves ; But must not so dishonour you . All gentl.

We obey .

Exeunt Gentlemen . Sci.

They 're gone : this is some noblenesse .

Lo. You see I doe not feare your sword ; alone I have Too much advantage , yet you may imagine How easily I could correct this rashnesse : But in my feare to offend gracious Heaven With a new crime , having so late obtain'd My peace , I give you freedome . Sci.

Doe I dreame ?

Lo. Pray chide me still , I will be patient To heare my shame . Sci. Is this to be beleev'd ? Doth not Lorenzo counter this vertue ? Hee does ? it is impossible he should repent . Lo. Why tell me Sciarrha , and let us argue a while In cooler blood ; did not you once resolve To kill the Duke too ? Sci.

I confesse —

Lo. To give him death with your owne hand ? Methinkes it should be the same parricide In you , if not a greater ; yet you chang Your purpose , why did you not goe through And murder him ? Sci.

He was converted .

Lo. Good , that taught you mercy , & perhaps repētance For your intent . Sci.

It did .

Lo. Why should not sir The same conversion of the Duke possesse My heart , with as much pietie to him And sorrow for my selfe ? if I should say You are but cunning , is this shape of honesty , And still suspect your soule to be a Traitor ? Might you not blame my want of charitie ? Sci. He saies but right , we are Both men , fraile things : t is not impossible . Lo. I am reconcild to heaven already , and the Duke , if you Be still unsatisfied , I am readie sin . Sci. The circumstance considerd , I incline To thinke this may be honest . Lo. Come Sciarrha , We are both hastie : pardon my rash language In the beginning , I will studie service Shall make you love me : I ha bin too wicked , Too full of passion , inexorable : My nature is corrected , at this minute : I 'me friends with all the world , but in your love Shall number many blessing . Sci.

I am converted .

Enter Petruchio . Lo.

What 's the newes ?

Pet. My Lord Depazzi prayes some conference In the next chamber we arrivd by chance Together at your gate : I doe not like his talke sir . Lo. Hang him propertie , let him Expect , thou art come i' the opportunitie : I could have wisht , be wise and second mee . Sci. He waits upon Pisano , Whose health I may enquire , I ha not seene him Since he departed sick , a fit occasion . Lo. Married to Oriana : thou mistak'st , T is Amidea , Lord Sciarrha's sister . Pet. That contract 's broken , and the old Lady Morrossa is violent to have the marriage Finished with her daughter . Lo. Sciarrha , I' st true Pisano marries Oriana The rich Morassa's daughter . Sci.

Ha ?

Lo. Wee did expect to here your sister should Have beene his bride : has he forsaken Amidea ? Sci.

Do not you serve Pisano ?

Pet.

Yes my Lord .

Sci. And dare you talke hee 's to be married To Oriana ? Pet. If they live till to morrow : Ther 's great provision to my knowledge and — Sci.

Take that , & learne to speake a truth hereafter .

Lo. That blow shall cost his life , It is not possible hee dares affront You thus ; the world takes notice of a contract , Hee 's much to blame if he should wrong so sweet A Lady as Amidea , now by Hymen . T is not so honorable hee neede not scorne , Such an alliance . Pet. I am not to give Account for my Lords actions , let him answere And justifie his honor : but my Lord Since J am provoked , J must declare he has Call'd back his vowes to Amidea , given Her freedome , and does meane to use his owne , And this he dares publish . Lo.

What , disclaim'd a Lady of her birth and glorious merit ?

Sci.

Th' art a villaine ,

Lo My Lord he is not worth your anger , hee Declares but what his master hath committed , T is none of his fault . Pet. It becomes my dutie To take correction my Lord , from you , I am a servant , a poore gentleman . Sci.

Shall I suspect the circumstance at his departure ?

Lo.

It is strange you knew not this before .

Sci.

I must examine if he dares —

Lo.

Be patient .

Sci. Teach fooles and children patience , The dogs eate up Sciarrha ; let me live The prodigie of sorrow , die a death That may draw teares from Scithians , if Pisano Leade o're his threshold , any soone wonne dame To be my sisters shame : I am calme now ; One false , heaven why should thy altars save ? T is just that Hymen light him to his grave . Exit Lo. A thousand furies swell his rage , although Pisano bleed , this is the safest killing ; Wisemen secure their fates and execute Invisibly , like that most subtle flame That burnes the heart , yet leaves no path or touch Vpon the skinne to follow or suspect it : Farewell dull passionate foole , how this doth feede me ? Kill and be lost thy selfe ; or if his sword Conclude thy life both waies I am reveng'd . Petruchio , thou didst hit my instructions rarely , And I applaude thee ' : now send in Depazzi , and visit me anon . Pet.

I shall my Lord .

Exit . Lo. Some Polititian That is not wise , but by a president , Would thinke me weake for using such an instrument , As this Depazzi ; but I know by proofe , Such men whom feare and honour make our creatures , Doe prove safe Engines , fooles will still obey , When cunning knaves our confidence betray . Enter Depazzy and Rogero . Dep.

My Lord , I would speake a word or two in private .

Lo.

You may .

Dep.

Is no body within hearing ? all cleere behind the arras ?

Lo.

Make no doubt sir .

Dep.

My Lord the truth is , I am very fearefull : is your Lordship sure there are no eves droppers .

Lo.

What needs this circumstance ? I pray come to the point .

Dep.

T is not unknowne to your Lordship , that you have bin my very good Lord , neither am I ignorant , that I am your humble servant , you advanc'd men , brought me into the number of the nobles , and I brought you a reasonable number of crownes : I am not the first wise Cittizen that hath bin converted into a foolish Courtier , but my Lord , I beseech you pardon mee : it will out .

Lo.

What 's the matter ?

Dep.

I am ready to burst .

Lo.

With what ?

Dep.

Treason , treason , now 'ts out , and I feele my bodie the lighter for t alreadie : the last plot did not take you see , and I would humbly intreate your Lordship to excuse mee , and get some body else hereafter to be your Traitor in my stead .

Lo.

How sir ?

Dep.

If you did but know the tendernesse of my constitution , or feele the pangs and convulsions that I suffer , you would pittie mee : I fall awaie you see , I cannot sleepe for dreaming of an axe , I have caus'd , my hangings of Holefernes to be taken downe in my dining roome , because I dare not looke upon a head that is cut off in it , something of my complexion : my wisedome tels mee I am a foole to be so fearefull , but my conscience tels me I am a greater foole if I ha not wit enough in my pare to keepe my head on my shoulders , I beseech your Lordship take mee into your consideration , I am but a mortall , though I bee a Lord , every man hath not the like gift of impudence , I have a weake stomacke , and treason is phisicke to mee , and although I do not vomit up your secrets they may out some other waie .

Lo.

You wonot betraie mee .

Dep.

But alasse in such a case I may soone bewray my selfe , and then your Lordship may soone be smelt out : to prevent therefore some mischeefe that may happen , I desire to leave off while I am well , end that your Lordship may know I meane plainely : I ha brought you all your letters , I durst not trust any other place with 'em for feare of state rats , I have unript my bosome to you , and there they are to a title — now I may safely sweare I have no hand with your Lordship .

Lo.

This is very strange .

Dep.

Mistake not my good Lord , J am still your creature , but I have a great minde to bee honest a little while , among the weaker sort of nobilitie : yet thus much perswade your selfe , I will ne'er wrong your Lordship in a sillable , should you tell me of a thousand treasons , and stratagems , J will never reveale any , J scorne that , but your Lordship must pardon mee , J will be a Traitor no longer , that 's certaine , J will be honest , and the rather because nobody shall hit mee in the teeth after J am dead , and say looke were Depazzi carries his head very high , and my Lord the more to induce your Lordship to dismisse mee — Rogero .

Ro.

My Lord .

Dep.

Giue me the gold , I have brought 1500 crownes more .

Lo.

Wherefore ?

Dep.

That J may have my Lordships good will , to leave my office before it be taken from mee , and preferd to a worse , t is halfe the price J paid for 't , J loue peace and a litttle honestie , J know your honor will finde an able man for it , and it is fit J should pay for my quietus .

Lo.

And what doe you resolve ?

Dep.

To returne to the dunghill from whence J came , for though J was borne in the Citie , J have some land in the countrie durtie acres , and Mansion house , where J will be the miracle of a courtier , and keepe good hospitalitie , love my neighbours , and their wives , and consequently get their children , bee admird amongst the Justices , sleepe vpon every bench , keepe a Chaplaine in my owne house to be my Idolator , and furnish me with jests ; and when I have nothing else to doe , I will thinke of the court , and how much I have bin oblig'd to your Lordship : my Lord I may doe you service with a leading voice in the countrie , the kennell will cry a my side if it come to election , you or your friend shall carrie it , against the Common wealth .

Lo.

Well sir , since you have express'd your selfe so freely , I will not councell you against your disposition to stay at court , you may goe when , and whither you please ; and though at parting J have nothing worth your acceptation , I will bestow these Crownes upon your servant .

Dep.

Thou shalt give 'em mee agen .

Ro.

Indeed my Lord J love a little honestie , t is his Lordships bountie , it will bee a stocke to set mee up , for my selfe at Court , when your Lordship is retir'd into the Countrie , I humbly thanke your Lordship : and take my leave of yours .

Exit . Enter a servant Ser.

The Duke my Lord .

Exit servant . Dep.

How the Duke ?

Du.

Signior Depazzi .

Lo. He has bin earnest with mee , and please your highnesse To be his humble suitor , he may have Freedome to leave the Court . Du.

Hee shall be banisht

Dep.

How ?

Lo.

What time will your grace allow to provide ?

Du.

Two howers .

Dep. I had rather loose my head at home , and save charges Of travaile , I beseech your grace . Du.

Well t is granted , let him not trouble us .

Lo.

Enjoy the countrie , and returne when the Duke sends for you .

Dep.

I hūbly thanke his highnes , and wil pray for your increase of grace .

Exit . Du.

Lorenzo , are wee private ?

Lo.

Yes my Lord .

Du.

I am very melancholie .

Lo.

J know the cause , t is Amidea .

Du.

Right .

Lo.

I doe not wish her dead .

Du.

It were a sinne .

Lo. Not in heaven sir , yet There be Ladies , that would thinke it a promotion . Du. It were pittie she should leave The world , till she hath taught by her example The neerest way Lo.

I am very confident shee 's yet honest .

Du.

Yet Lorenzo ?

Lo. I sir , but I 'me not of opinion it is Impossible to know a change . Du.

Take heed .

Lo. I must confesse shee has beene very valiant , In making you remove your seige , and shewd Prettie dexteritie at the ponyard , See her selfe bleed : but this a mortall Virgin Might doe , and not be adord for 't : other weomen Have gone as farre , or else false Legends have Beene thrust upon the easie world : some say There have bin creatures that have killd themselves , To save their sullen chastities ; but I Have no strong faith that way , yet you were startled To see her strike her arme , and grew compassionate . Du. I was not Marble , we breake Adamant With blood , and could I be a man , and not Be moov'd to see that hastie eb be of life For my sake ? Lo. I have read some aged Stories : What thinke you of Lucrece ? shee is rememberd . Du.

Chastities great example .

Lo. How the world Was cozend in her ? shee knew of Tarquin first , And then suspecting she should never meete Agen the active Gentleman , having Determin'd of his death , with well dissembled Sorrow did stab her selfe , in hope to meete The gamester in Elizium , Amidea , You will allow beneath this Roman Dame . Du. Lorenzo had the burning ravisher , Made this attempt on Amidea , shee Would have compelld his penitence , to quench His fire with holy teares . I had a body Refin'd to aire , or I was borne up by A thousand wings : methought I could have flowne And kiss'd the cheeke of Cynthia , thence with ease Have leapt to Uenus Starre , but I was wounded , And the gay feathers , in whose pride I had My confidence , serv'd now but with their waight To hasten me to earth . Lo. Ascend agen , And fixe in your lov'd orbe , he brings this comfort That can assure it , if you have not lost A heart to entertaine with love and pleasure The beauteous Amidea . Du.

Ha ?

Lo.

You shall enjoy her .

Du. Enjoy faire Amidea ? doe not tempt , Or rather mocke my frailtie with such a promise . Lo. Shake off your melancholie slumber , I Have heere decreed you shall possesse her : she Be sent submissive to your armes , and you Be gracious to accept what she made coy of . Du.

Is this in nature ?

Lo. Thus : Sciarrhas life And fortunes are alreadie growing forfeit These braines have plotted so : your mercy shall Purchase what you can wish , for , in his Sister And hee acknowledge rifling of her honour , A faire and cheape redemption . Du. Doe this , And I le repent the folly of my penitence , And take thee to my soule , a neerer pledge Then blood or nature gave mee : I 'me renewd , I feele my naturall warmth returne , when , where , Is this to be expected ? I grow old , While our embraces are deferd . Lo. J goe , to hasten your delight , prepare your blood For amorous game : Sciarrhas fate is cast Firmer then destinie . Du.

Thou art my Prophet , I le raise thee up an Altar .

Lo.

Trust these braines .

Du.

Thou mak'st my spirit caper in my veines .

Exit . Cosmo and two Gentlemen above . 1 Gen.

This way they passe .

Cos.

J would not see 'em .

2 Gen.

Why ?

1 Gen.

What melanchollie o' the suddaine ? it is now past cure .

Cos. J know it is , and therefore doe not Desire to witnesse their solemnitie , should Oriana See me to day . 2

What then ?

Cos. The object J Feare would be too prodigious . 2

We dispute not those nice formalities .

Enter Alonzo , Piero , Pisano , Oriana , Morossa , 1

She has spied you already .

Cos.

I am sorry for 't .

Oriana faints . Mor.

How is 't my childe ?

Pis. My dearest Oriana , Shee faints , what griefe is so unmannerly To interrupt thee now Oriana ? Mor.

Daughter !

Pis. Will Heaven divorce vs ere the Priest have made Our Marriage perfect ? we in vaine hereafter Shall heare him teach , that our Religion binds To have the Churches ceremonie , she returnes . Oria. Why were you so unkinde to call me from A pleasing slumber ? Death has a fine dwelling . Pie. This shewes her heart 's not yet consenting , t is Her Mothers fierce command . Ori.

Something spake to me from that window .

Pis.

There is nothing .

Ori.

Nothing now .

Pis.

Set forward .

Alon. I doe not like this interruption : t is Ominous . Enter Amidea . Am. Not for my sake , but for your owne , go backe , Or take some other way , this leads to death My brother . Pis.

What of him ?

Am. Transported with The furie of revenge for my dishonour , As he conceives ; for t is against my will : Hath vowd to kill you in your Nuptiall glory . Alas I feare his haste , now good my Lord , Have mercy on your selfe , I doe not begge Your pittie upon me , I know too well You cannot love me now , nor would I rob This Virgin of your faith , since you have pleas'd To throw me from your love : I doe not aske One smile , nor one poore kisse , enrich this maide Created for those blessings : but agen , I would beseech you , cherish your owne life , Though I be lost forever . Alon. It is worth Your care my Lord , if there be any danger . Pis. Alas her griefe hath made her wilde poore Ladie : J should not love Oriana to goe backe , Set forward , Amidea , you may live To be a happier Bride : Sciarrha is not So irreligious to prophane these rites . Am. Will you not then beleeve me ? pray perswade him , You are his friends . Lady , it will concerne You most of all indeede : feare you le weepe To see him dead as well as J. Pis. No more , Goe forward . Am. J have done , pray be not angry , That still J wish you well , may heaven divert All harmes that threaten you , full blessings crowne Your Marriage : J hope there is no sinne in this ; Jndeed J cannot choose but pray for you , This might have beene my wedding-day . Ori. Good Heaven J would it were , my heart can tell , J take No joy in being his bride , none in your praiers , You shall have my consent to have him still : J will resigne my place , and waite on you , Jf you will marrie him . Am. Pray doe not mocke me , But if you doe , J can forgive you too . Ori. Deare Amidea , doe not thinke J mocke Your sorrow ; by these teares that are not worne By every Virgin on her wedding day ; J am compelld to give away my selfe : Your hearts were promisd , but he ne're had mine : Am not J wretched too ? Am. Alas poore Maide , We two keepe sorrow alive then , but J prithee When thou art married , love him , prithee love him ; For he esteemes thee well , and once a day Give him a kisse for me , but doe not tell him , T was my desire , perhaps 't will fetch a sigh From him , and I had rather breake my heart , But one word more , and heaven be with you all , Since you have led the way , I hope my Lord That I am free to marrie too . Pis.

Thou art .

Am. Let me beseech you then , to be so kinde After your owne solemnities are done , To grace my wedding , I shall bee married shortly . Pis

To whom ?

Am. To one whom you haue all heard talke of , Your fathers knew him well : one , who will never Give cause I should suspect him to forsake mee , A constant lover , one whose lips though cold Distill chast kisses , though our bridall bed Be not adorn'd with roses , t will bee greene , We shall have Virgin Laurell Cipresse , Ewe , To make us garlands , though no Pine do burne , Our nuptiall shall have torches , and our chamber Shall be cut out of marble , where wee le sleepe Free from all care for ever : death my Lord I hope shall be my husband , now farewell , Although no kisse , accept my parting teare , And give me leave to weare my willow here . Exit . Enter Sciarrha , Lorenzo , aloofe with a guard . Al.

Sciarrha ! then I prophesie —

Sci.

Pisano , where 's Pisano ?

Pis. Here , Sciarrha . I should have answerd with lesse clamor . Sci. But I would not lose my voice , I must be heard , And does concerne you , I professe no Augurie , I have not quarterd out the heavens , to take The flight of birds , nor by inspection Of entrailes made a divination . But I must tell you , t is not safe to marrie . Pis.

Why ?

Sci. T will be fatall , Hymen is gone abroad , And Venus , Lady of your nativitoe , Is found by wise Astrologers this day I' th house of death . Pis.

This must not fright me sir , set forward .

Sci. One cold word you are a villaine , I doe not flatter . Pis. I am patient : This day I consecrate to love , not anger ; Wee le meet some other time . Sci. Deride my furie ? Then to thy heart I send my owne revenge Stabs him with a ponyard . And Amideas . Pis.

I am murderd .

Mor.

Help , murder gentlemen , oh my unhappines !

Enter Lorenzo with a gaurd . Pis.

Bloody Sciarrha .

Lo.

Hold .

Sci. Come all at once , Yet let me tell you , my revenge is perfect , And I would spare your blood , if you despise My charitie — Lo. No man attempt his death , I le give yea reasons , this attempt deserves An exemplarie justice . Sci. I am above Your politicke reach , and glory in the wound That punish'd our dishonor : is he dead ? I would not be so miserable , not to ha sped him For the Empire . Enter Cosmo . Cos.

Oh my friend , poore Oriana .

Lo. Disarme him : Returne and comfort one another , some Exeunt all but Lorenzo , Sciar. & guard . Remoue Pisanos bodie , while I make it My care Sciarrha scape not . Sci.

None of all give mee a scrach ?

You have forc'd him with descretion .

Sci.

Now what must I expect ?

Lo.

You are my prisoner .

Sci.

J am so .

Lo.

And be confident to finde that favour .

Sci.

Favor .

Lo. Be at distance , more My Lord , J am sorrie for your great misfortune And if you can but studie how I may Assist you , you shall soone descerne my love My readinesse to serve you . Sci.

Ha , this honest ?

Lo. I would deserue your faith , A freind but in affliction justifie His heart and honor , I durst run some hazard , Might I secure your fate , name something to me That may declare my friendship . Sci. Be still safe , And teach the world repentance , for mistaking thee I pittie not my selfe , but envy thy Heroick honors . Lo. I will impose no more Restraint , then your owne house , you 'r honorable : You have many severe enemies , the Duke Look'd gratiously upon Pisano , but — . Sci. You shanot loose the smallest beame of favor , To buy a man so desperate , I never Thought death the monster , that weake men have fanci'd , As foile to make us more in love with life , The Divels picture may affright poore foules Into their bodies palenesse , but the substance Too resolute : man 's a shadow , and cold sweat Dare not approach his forehead , I am arm'd To die , and give example of that fortitude Shall shame the Lawes severitie : my sister May now give backe Pisano his false vowes , To line his coffin , one teare shed on mee 's Enough , the justice I ha done , shall make My memorie belov'd . Lo. I ha thought a way . To recover you , if you incline too 't , Dare you consent ? Sci. To any thing that 's noble , Although I never fear'd to suffer ; I Am not so foolish to despise a life . Lo. There is no difficultie attends it , listen , The time will not permit much circumstance : The Duke you know did love your sister . Sci.

Vitiously .

Lo. Her Vertue did but coole him for the present , As sprinklings on a flame , hee 's now more passionate To enjoy her . Sci.

Ha ?

Lo. If shee consent to meete His soft embrace , with his first kisse , he seales Your pardon , then the act upon Pisano Appeares a true revenge , when none dares question it : Beside addition of state and fortune , To you and Amidea , waigh your danger , And what a trifle shee gives up , to save Your life , that never can be valued , Lesse recompenc'd ; the Duke may be so taken With her returne to his delight , who knowes But he may marrie her , and discharge his Dutchesse With a quaint sallet , you doe apprehend mee . Sci. And repent more , I had one good thought of thee , Then I had kild a thousand : save my life And prostitute my sister , though I have No weapon , I will looke thee dead , or breath A dampe shall stifle thee , that I could vomit Consuming flames , or stones like Aetna , make The earth with motion of my feet shrinke lower , And take thee in alive , oh that my voice Could call a Serpent from corrupted Nile , To make thee part of her accursed bowels , Is this noble freindship ? readinesse To save my life ? let malice reade all stories Famous for crueltie , awake dead Tyrants , Or be instructed by their ghosts with tortures , Such as will make a damned furie weepe Onely to see inflicted , I would beare 'em , And wearie my tormentors , ere consent In thought to thy temptation . Lo. I ha done , And praise your heathen resolution Of death , goe practice immortalitie , And tell us when you can get leave to visit This world agen , what fine things you enjoy In hell , for thither these rash passions drive thee , And ere thy body hath three daies inhabited , A melancholly chamber in the earth , Hung round about with skuls and dead mens bones , Ere Amidea have told all her teares Upon thy Marble , or the Epitaph Belie thy soule , by saying it is fled To Heaven : this Sister shall be ravish'd , Mauger thy dust and Heraldry . Sci. Ha , ravish'd ? When I am dead , was 't not so ? oh my soule , I feele it weepe within me , aud the teares Soften my flesh : Lorenzo , I repent my furie . Lo.

I advis'd you the best way my wisedome could direct .

Sci. I thanke you for 't , You have awak'd my reason , I am asham'd I was no sooner sensible : does the Duke Affect my Sister still say you ? Lo.

Most passionately .

Sci. She shall obey him then , upon my life : That 's it , my life ; I know she loves me dearely . I shall have much adoe to winne her too 't , But she shall come , I le send her . Lo.

Performe this ?

Sci. I wonot onely send her , but prepar'd Not to be disobedient to his Highnesse : He shall command her any thing . Lo. Doe this , And be for ever happie , when these have Onely for forme but waited on you home : This disingages 'em . Sci. My humblest service To the Duke I pray , and tell him , Amidea This night shall be at his dispose , by this . Lo.

I 'me confident , farewell ; attend Sciarrha .

Sci. Pittie the Sea-man , that to avoide a shelfe , Must strike upon a rocke to save himselfe . Exeunt .

ACTVS QVINTVS . Enter Sciarrha and Amidea . Sci. THe doores are fast , Enough is wept alreadie for Pisano : There 's something else that must be thought on , and Of greater consequence : I am yet unsafe , That for thy sake am guiltie of his blood . Am. Though all my stocke of teares were spent alreadie Upon Pisanoes losse , and that my braine Were banquerout of moisture , and deni'd To lend my griefe one drop more for his Funerall ; Yet the remembrance that you have made A forfeit of your deare life Is able to create a weeping spring Within my barren head : oh my lost brother , Thou hast a cruell destinie , my eies In pittie of thy fate desire to drowne thee . The Law will onely seeke thee upon land , Hid in my teares , thou shalt prevent the stroake Kills both our name and thee . Sci. I know thou lov'st me Poore Girle . I shall desire to cherrish life Jf thou lament me thus : so rich a comfort Will tempt me , wish I might delay my journie To Heaven . Am.

Good Heaven that we might goe together .

Sci.

That must not be .

Am.

Then let me goe before .

Sci.

How ?

Am. Make my suite unto the Prince , my blood May be your ransome ; let me die , Sciarrha My life is fruitlesse unto all the world , The Duke in justice will not denie this : And though I weepe in telling thee , I shall Smile on the Scaffold . Sci. How my Honour blushes To heare thee Amidea ? in this love Thou woundst me more , then thou desir'st to save : Suffer for me ? why thou art innocent : I have provok'd the punishment , and dare Obey it manly ; if thou couldst redeeme me With any thing but death , I thinke I should Consent to live , but I 'de not have thee venture All at one chance . Am. Nothing can be too precious To save a brother , such a loving brother As you have beene . Sci. Death 's a devouring gamester , And sweepes up all : what thinkst thou of an eye ? Couldst thou spare one , and thinke the blemish recōpenc'd , To see me safe with tother ; or a hand , This white hand , that hath so often With admiration trembled on the Lute , Till we have prayd thee leave the strings awhile , And laid our eares close to thy Ivorie fingers , Suspecting all the Harmonie proceeded From their owne motion , without the neede Of any dull or passive instrument . No Amidea , shalt not beare one scarre To buy my life : the sickle shall not touch A flower that growes so faire upon his stalke : Thy tother hand will misse a white companion , And wither on thy arme ; what then can I Expect from thee to save me ? I would live And owe my life to thee , so 't were not bought Too deere . Am. Doe you beleeve I should not finde The way to Heaven : were both mine eyes thy ransome , I shall clime up those high and rugged c●iffes Without a hand . Sci. One way there is , if thou Doest love with that tendernesse . Am. Pronounce it , And let no danger that attends , incline you To make a pause . Sci.

The Duke thou knowst did love thee .

Am.

Hi ?

Sci. Nay doe not start alreadie , nor mistake me ; I doe not as before , make triall of thee , Whether thou canst , laying aside thy honour , Meete his lascivious armes but by this vertue I must beseech thee to for goe it all , And turne a sinfull woman . Am.

Blesse me !

Sci. I know the kingdomes of the world containe not Riches enough to tempt thee to a fall That will so much undoe thee : but I am Thy brother , dying brother ; if thou lov'st Him therefore , that for thee hath done so much ; Died his pale hands in blood to revenge thee , And in that murder wounded his owne soule Almost to death , consent to loose thy innocence : I know it makes thee grieve , but I shall live To love thee better for it : wee 'le repent Together for our sinnes , and pray and weepe Till Heaven hath pardon'd all . Am.

Oh never , never .

Sci. Doe but repeat thy words , to save my life , And that will teach compassion : my life , Our shame , the staine of all our familie , Which will succeede in my ignoble death , Thou washest off . Am.

But staine my selfe for ever .

Sci. Where ? in thy face , who shall behold one blemish , Or one not more in thy whole frame , thy beautie Will be the very same , thy speech , thy person Weare no deformitie . Am. Oh doe not speake So like a rebell to all modestie , To all Religion , if these arguments Spring from your jealousie that I am falne , After a proofe you did so late applaude . Sci. I had not killd Pisano then : I am now More spotted then the Marble , then my head Did owe no forfeiture to Law : It does ake now , then I but tried thy vertue . Now my condition calls for mercy to thee , Though to thy selfe thou appeare cruell for 't : Come we may live both if you please . Am. I must never Buy my poore breath at such a rate , who has Made you afraide to die : I pittie you , And wish my selfe in any noble cause Your Leader , when our soules shall leave this dwelling , The glory of one faire , and vertuous action Is above all the scutcheons on our tombe , Or silken banners over us . Sci. So valiant , J will not interpose another sillable To entreate your pittie say your prayers , and then Thar' t ripe to be translated from the earth , To make a Cherubine . Am.

What meanes my brother ?

Sci.

To kil you .

Am.

Doe not fright me good Sciarrha .

Sci.

And I allow three minutes for your devotion .

Am.

Will you murder mee ?

Sci.

D' ee tremble ?

Am. Not at the terror of your sword , But at the horror will affright thy soule , For this blacke deed : J see Pisanos blood Is texted in thy forehead , and thy hands Retaine too many , too many crimson spots already Make not thy selfe , by furthering of thy sister All a red letter , Sci.

You shall be the martir .

Am. Yet stay , is there no remedie but death , And from your hand ? then keepe your word , & let me Use one short prayer . Sci.

J shall relent .

Am. Forgive me heaven , and , witnesse J have still Kneels . My Virgin thoughts , t is not to save my life , But his eternall one . Sciarrha give me leave to vaile my face , Rises . J dare not looke uppon you and pronounce , J am too much a sister , live , hereafter I know you will condemne my frailty for it . I will obey the Duke . Sci.

Darst thou consent .

Wounds her . Am. Oh let me see the wound She unvails . T is well , if any other hand had done it : Some Angell tell my brother now , I did But seeme consenting . Sci.

Ha but seeme ?

Am.

You may beleeve my last breath .

Sci.

Why didst say so ?

Am. To gaine some time , in hope you might call in Your bloody purpose , and prevent the guilt Of being my murderer ; but Heaven forgive thee . Sci. Agen , agen , forgive me Amidea , And pray for me , live but a little longer , To heare me speake , my passion hath betraid Thee to this wound , for which I know not whether I should rejoyce , or weepe , since thou art vertuous : The Duke , whose soule is blacke agen , expects thee To be his whoore : good Death be not so hastie . The Agent for his lust , Lorenzo , has My Oath to send thee to his bed : for otherwise In my deniall , hell ; and they decree When I am dead , to ravish thee : marke that , To ravish thee : and I confesse in teares , As full of sorrow , as thy soule of innocence , In my religious care to haue thee spotlesse , I did resolve , when I had found thee ripe , And nearest Heaven , with all thy best desires To send thee to thy peace : thy faind consent Hath brought thy happinesse more earelie to thee , And sav'd some guilt , forgive me altogether . Am. With the same heart I beg Heaven for my selfe , Farewell . Sci.

Thou shalt not die yet Amidea Sister .

Florio knockes . I cannot come : But one word more : oh which way went thy soule ? Or is it gone so farre it cannot heare me ? Florio breakes ope the doore . Flo. Looke , here 's our Sister ! so , so , chafe her : She may returne ; there is some motion . Flo.

Sister ?

Sci. Speake aloud Florio , if her spirit be not Departed , I will seale this passage up : I feele her breath agen , here 's Florio Would faine take his leave ; so , so , she comes . Flo.

Amidea , how came this wound ?

Am. I drew the weapon to it : Heaven knowes my brother lov'd me : now I hope The Duke wo'not persue me with new flames . Sciarrha , tell the rest , love one another The time you live together : I le pray for you In Heaven , farewell , kisse me when I am dead ; You else will stay my journie . She dyes . Sci. Didst not heare An Angell call her ? Florio , I have much To tell thee , take her up ; stay I will talke A little more with her , she is not dead , Let her alone ; nay then shee 's gone indeede . But hereabouts her soule must hover still : Le ts speake to that , faire Spirit . Flo.

You talke idly .

Sci. Doe you talke wisely then ? an excellent patterne As she now stands for her owne Alablaster : Or may she not be kept from putrifaction , And be the very figure on her Tombe : Cannot thy teares and mine preserve her Florio ? If we want brine , a thousand Virgins shall Weepe every day upon her , and themselves In Winter , leaning round about her Monument , Being moist creatures , stiffen with the cold , And freeze into so many white supporters . But we loose time , I charge thee by thy lo To this pale Relique , be instructed by me , Not to thy danger ; some revenge must be , And I am lost alreadie ; if thou fall , Who shall survive to give us Funerall ? Exeunt . Enter Lorenzo and Petruchio . Lo.

Petruchio ?

Pe.

My Lord .

Lo.

Th' art now my servant .

Pe.

I ever was in heart your humblest vassall .

Lo. Th' art faithfull , I must cherish thy desert , I shortly shall reward it , very shortly ; Next morning must salute me Duke ; the Sunne And I must rise together . Pe. I shall pray Your glory may out-shine him in your Florence , And when he sets , we may enjoy your Sun-beame . Lo.

T is hansome flattery , and becomes a Courtier .

Pe.

J flatter not my Lord .

Lo. Then th' art a foole : No Musicke to a Great man chimes so sweetly : And men must thrive , come hither , how many Hast thou killd ? Pe.

But one my Lord .

Lo.

But one ?

Pe. And J must owe My life to your Lordship , I had beene hang'd else . Lo. But one ? waite at the doore , he is Not fit to kill a Duke , whose hand is guiltie But of a single murder ; or at least Not fit alone to act it : J ha beene Practis'd already , and though no man see 't , Nor scarse the eye of Heaven , yet every day I kill a Prince , appeare thou Tragicke witnesse . Hee discovers the Dukes Picture , a Ponyard sticking in it . Which though it bleed not , I may boast a Murder : Here first the Duke was painted to the life : But with this Pencill to the death : I love My braine for the invention , and thus Confirm'd , dare trust my resolution . I did suspect his youth , and beautie might Winne some compassion when J came to kill him : Or the remembrance that he is my Kinsman , Might thrill my blood : or something in his Title , Might give my hand repulse , and startle Nature : But thus J have arm'd my selfe against all pittie , That when J come to strike , my Ponyard may Through all his charmes as confidently wound him , As thus J stab his Picture , and stare on it . Me thinkes the Duke should feele me now : is not His soule acquainted ; can he lesse then tremble When J lift up my arme to wound his counterfeit ? Witches can persecute the lives of whom They hate , when they torment their sencelesse figures , And sticke the waxen modell full of pinnes . Can any stroke of mine carrie lesse spell To wound his heart , sent with as great a malice ? He smiles , he smiles upon me : J will digge Thy wanton eyes out , and supply the darke And hollow Cells with two pitch burning Tapers : Then place thee Porter in some Charnell house To light the Coffins in . Enter Petruchio . Pet.

My Lord .

Lor.

The Duke 's not come alreadie .

Pet.

Signior Florio desires to speake with you .

Lor. This must retire agen into my Closet : admit him . Enter Florio . Welcome , how does Sciarrha ? Flo. He commends His service to your Lordship , and hath sent — Lor.

His Sister ?

Flo. Much adoe he had to effect it : He hopes his Grace will quickly signe his pardon . Lor.

It shall be done .

Flo.

I have a suite my Lord .

Lor.

To me ?

Flo. My Sister would intreate your Honour She may be admitted privately , and that I may have priviledge to prepare her chamber : She does retaine some modestie , and wo'd not ! Trust every servant with her shame : their eies Are apt to instruct their tongues . Lor.

I wonot see her my selfe , command what you desire .

Flo.

Y' are gracious .

Lor. I le give directions instantly : poore Ladie , This is the Dukes hot blood , but Heaven convert him , Follow me good Florio . Flo.

I attend my Lord .

Lor.

Things shall be carried honourably .

Flo.

We are all bound to you .

Exeunt . Recorders . Amidea discoverd in a Bed , prepar'd by two Gentlewomen . 1

This is a sad imploiment .

The last wee 're shall doe my Ladie .

Enter Florio . Flo. So , now you may returne , it will become Your modest duties , not to enquire the reason Of this strange service , nor to publish what Y 'ave bin commanded ; let mee looke upon Ex. gentlewomen . My sister now , still she retaines her beautie , Death has beene kinde to leave her all this sweetnesse . Thus in a morning have I oft saluted My sister in her chamber , sate upon Her bed , and talkt of many harmelesse passages , But now t is night , and a long night with her , I neere shall see these Curtaines drawne agen Untill wee meet in heaven . The Duke already . Enter Duke and Lorenzo . Du.

May I beleeve ?

Lo.

Trust me my Lord hereafter .

Du. Call mee no more thy Lord , but thy companion I will not weare that honor in my title , Shall not be thine . Whoe 's that ? Lo.

Her brother Florio .

Du.

She is a bed .

Lor. The readier for your pastime . She meanes no make a night on 't . Flo. This shall declare thee to posteritie The best of Sisters — what of that ? and is not A brothers life more precious then a trifle ? I prithee doe not sigh : how many Ladies Would be ambitious of thy place to night ? And thanke his Highnesse ? yes , and Virgins too . Du.

He pleades for me .

Lo.

He will deserve some office 'bout your person .

Du.

With what words shall I expresse my joy ?

Lo. I leave you sir to action , Florio Is soone dismist . Exit . Flo.

Hee 's come : good-night —

Du.

Florio ?

Flo.

Your Slave .

Du.

My friend ! thou shalt be neere our bosome .

Flo.

Pleasures crowne your expectation .

Exit . Du. All perfect , till this minute , I could never Boast I was happie : all this world has not A blessing to exchange , this world ? t is Heaven ; And thus I take possession of my Saint : Asleepe already ? 't were great pitty to Disturbe her dreame , yet if her soule be not Tir'd with the bodies weight , it must convey Into her slumbers I waite here , and thus Seale my devotion — what winter dwels Kisses . Upon this lip ? t wa's no warme kisse , I le try Agen — the snow is not so cold , I have Drunke ice , and feele a numbnesse spred through My blood at once — ha ? let me examine A little better ; Amidea , she is dead , shee is dead ! What horror doth inuade me ? helpe Lorenzo ; Murder , where is Lorenzo ? Enter Lorenzo and Petruchio . Lo.

Heere my Lord .

Du. Some Traitor hid within the chamber , see My Amidea 's dead . Lo. Dead ? t is impossible , Yet , sh 'as a wound upon her breast . Du. I prethee kill mee : They wound him . Ha wilt thou murder mee , Lorenzo , villaine ? Oh spare me to consider , I would live A little longer : Treason . Lo. A little longer say'ee ?ee It was my duty to obey you sir . Pet.

Le ts make him sure my Lord .

Lo. What would you say ? no cares but ours Can reach his voice , but be not tedious . Du. Oh spare mee , I may live and pardon thee : Thy Prince begs mercy from thee , that did never Deny thee any thing ; pittie my poore soule , I have not prayed . Lo. I could have wish'd you better Prepard , but let your soule e'en take his chance . Wounds him agen . Du. No teare prevaile ? oh whither must wander Thus Caesar fell by Brutus . I shall tell Newes to the world I goe to , will not bee Beleevd , Lorenzo kild me . Lo. Will it not ? I le presently put in security . Du. I am comming Amidea , I am comming For thee inhumane murderer , expect My blood shall flie to heaven , and there inflam'd , Hang a prodigious meteor all thy life . And when by some as bloody hand as thine Thy soule is ebbing forth , it shall descend In flaming drops upon thee : oh I faint ! Thou flattering world farewell : let Princes gather My dust into a glasse , and learne to spend Their hower of state , that 's all they have ; for when That 's out , times never turnes the glasse agen . Dies . Lo. So lay him beside his mistresse , hide their faces , The Duke dismist the traine came with him . Pe.

He did my Lord .

Lo. Run to Sciarrha , pray him come , and speake wo'mee , Secure his passage to this Chamber , haste , Exit Pet. Hee 's dead ; I le trust him now , and his ghost too ; Fools start at shadowes , I 'me in love with night And her complexion . Enter Petr. Pe.

My Lord , hee 's come without your summons .

Lo.

Already ? leave us .

Enter Sciarrha , and Florio . Welcome , let embraces Chaine us together , noble Florio welcome : But I must honor thy great soule . Sci.

Where 's the Duke ?

Lo.

They are a bed together .

Sci.

Ha ?

Lo. Hee 's not stirring yet : Thou kildst thy sister , didst not ? Sci.

I preserv'd her .

Lo.

So it was bravely done .

Sci.

But where 's the wanton Duke ?

Lo.

A sleepe I tell you .

Sci.

And hee shall sleepe eternally .

Lor.

You cannot wake him , looke you .

Sci.

Is he dead ?

Lo. And in his death we two begin our life Of greatnesse , and of Empire , nay hee 's dead . Sci.

That labour 's sav'd .

Lo. Now I pronounce Sciarrha , Thy pardon , and to recompence thy losse , The share of Florence , I le but weare the title , The power wee le devide . Sci. I like this well : You told a tale once of a common wealth And libertie . Lo. It was to gaine a faction With discontented persons , a fine tricke To make a buzze of reformation . My ends are compas'd : hang the ribble rabble . Sci. Shall wee sweat for the people ? loose our breath To get their fame ? Lo. I le have it given out The Duke did kill thy sister . Sci.

Excellent .

Lo. Having first ravish'd her , he cannot bee Too hatefull ; it will dull the examination Of his owne death , or if that come to question — Sci. What if I say , I kild him in revenge Of Amidea ? they will pittie mee . Beside , 't wil be in your power to pardon Mee altogether . Lo.

Most descreetely thought on .

Sci.

The Divell wonot leave us o' the suddaine .

Lo. Rare wit : How hastily hee climbs the the precipice , From whence one Fillup topples him to ruine : Wee two shall live like brothers . Sci. stay wee two — now I consider better , I have no minde to live at all — & you shanot , I le give you proofe , if you but make a noise , You gallop to the Divell . Lo.

I 'me betraid .

Sci. To death inevitable , brother be you Spectator onely . Lo.

This is somewhat noble .

Sci. Thanke mee not Lorenzo , I le not engage His innocence to blood , thy hands are white , Preserve e'm Florio , and unlesse my arms Grow feeble , doe not interpose thy sword I charǵe thee . Lo.

None to assist mee ? helpe Petruchio , helpe .

They fight , Enter Petruchio , who offering to runne at Sciarrha , is intercepted by Florio , Petruchio , runs in crying helpe , Florio makes fast the doore . Lo. Reach thy jawes wider villaine , cry out murder , Treason , any thing ; hold — oh . Lo. fals . Sci

Will you not fall Colosus ?

Flo.

Are not you hurt ?

Sci. I know not . Ha ? yes he has prick'd me somewhere But I le make sure of him ; now must I follow : I le fight with him i' th tother world — thy hand , Florio . Farewell . Dies . Flo. Hee s dead too : t is in vaine for me to fly Within Breake open the dores . Flo.

You shanot neede .

Enter Petruchio , Cosmo , Allonso , Frederico , with guard . Al.

Disarme him .

Cos.

Lorenzo , and Sciarrha slaine ?

Al.

Where is the Duke ?

Pet.

Looke heere my Lords .

Al.

What Traitor ?

Fre.

See Amidea murderd too .

Cos.

I tremble , heere is a heape of Tragedies .

Al.

Wee must have an account from Florio .

Flo.

He can informe you best that brought you hither .

Al.

Lay hands upon Petruchio , disarme him .

Cos.

What blood is that upon his sword ? t is fresh .

Pet.

I 'me caught .

Cos.

To tortures with him .

Pet. Spare your furie , know T was the best blood in Florence , I must quit Young Florio ; Lorenzo , and my selfe , Are onely guilty of the princes death . Al.

Inhumane traitors ?

Co.

But who kild Amidea ?

Flo. The Dukes lust : There was no other way to save her honor , My brother has revengd it heere , but fate , Denyde him triumph . Al. I never heard Such killing stories , but t is meet , wee first Settle the state , Cosmo you are the next Of blood to challenge Florence . Cos. Pray deferre That till the morning , drag that murderer To prison : Florio , you must not expect Your liberty , til all things be exam'nd . Lorenzo , now I am above thy malice , And will make satisfaction to Oriana . T is a sad night my Lords , by these you see There is no stay in proud mortality . Exeunt .

FINIS .