The counterfeits a comedy as it is acted at the Duke's Theatre.

THE Counterfeits , A COMEDY .

ACT I. SCENE 1. The High Street in Madrid . Antonio , Carlos . Car.

SHe is your Sister , Antonio .

Ant.

That 's it that makes my Hell : were she as far from my Bloud , as now my Love , she might , if possible , out-sin her Sex , and never injure me . But to call me Brother , and be pointed at for Whore , Carlos ; were the Lives of all our Family twisted up in hers , nay , should all Posterity perish with her , she dies .

Car.

This Passion puts thee beyond all Counsel : prithee be thy self , and let me hear the Circumstances of your Story . I am too much a Spaniard , not to prompt you to Revenge ; but would first know why , and how .

Ant.

Believe me , thou art blest , Carlos , who hast none of this frail Tribe so near thy Bloud , to rack thy Thoughts . The very Being of the Sex is infectious , and from the mom●nt of their Birth corrupts their Bloud , and leaves them all a Stain .

Car.

This is Raving past hopes of Cure.

Ant.

Would you have me tame , when all my Care and future● Hopes are at once blasted ? Had I not Fondness for her beyond that of Mothers ? F●ol that I was , to trust my Happiness on the treacherous prop● of a Woman's Faith !

Car.

This may still be Jealousie , and founded on the hate of some ●ly Informer .

Ant.

Would my Life could buy the least show for Doubt . No , see , see Carlos , her own Hand witnesses against her self ; the onely thing wherein a Woman ought to be believ'd .

Carlos reads the Letter .

— Vitelli , a Gentleman of Cordova , as he pretended , with promise of Marriage● had possession of my Bed● and , as I am inform'd , is fled towards Castile . My Retreat is to a Monastery , where , you shall know when my Injuries are reveng'd —

Ant.

Dost thou not find her more impudent then practis'd Bauds ? Had he still staid to feed her Lus●ful flame , I had been ignorant .

Yes , you shall be reveng'd on your Vitelli ; and with the same Dagger , though thou wert professing at the Altar , I 'd send thee to keep company with the Devils like thy self .

Carlos , thou must not trust thy very Thoughts with this Secret. Is there not something in my Looks may tell the world my Sister's Whore ? Hah —

Car.

This is Madness beyond Bedlam ; be calm , and I 'll further your Design . — But —

Ant.

Each Minute 's now an Age ; but once reveng'd , thou shalt see me calm as sleeping Children . I was not wont to be thus .

Car.

Nor must you be , Antonio ; this Passion is a certain Hinderance to your purpose . How can I assist you , when you will not give your self time to tell your Story ?

Ant.

True , Carlos , and thou hast nam'd the onely thing could teach me Patience to relate my Shame . Know then , that very night I had concluded the advantageous Match for this false Woman , with Don Alonso Fonseca , the great Heir , returning late home , brisk with wine , and over-joy'd at the Success , I entred at the Garden-door , which I found open , and all the House silent as Death . Fear of my greatest Treasure wing'd me to her Chamber : where , to my perpetual Torment , I found that Letter . Oh Carlos ! canst thou guess the Sighs of Merchants in a Storm , or utmost Pangs of Parents o're their dying Hopes ? such was my Treasure , such my Loss and Grief .

Car.

The Surprize must needs be great , and the unlucky Circumstances adde much to the Affliction . But what Account could your Servants give ?

Ant.

All I could learn was , that she ( who you know always govern'd ) commanded them to bed , and that her Maid should wait my coming home ; by which means , unknown to any , th●y escap'd .

Car.

Know you the place of her Retir●ment she speaks of ?

Ant.

No , I le●t her Shame to b● her Punish●ent , till I could wreak my Vengeance on Vitelli , who I judge would chuse Madrid , ( for of Cordova he is not , ) both for the Solemnity , and likeliest place to lie conceal'd .

Car.

Do you know him ?

Ant.

No , Carlos , but such an Action must leave some mark upon the base Offender ; and something tells me , my heightned Rage will point me to the curst Ruiner of my Honour . — Methinks I must look him dead .

Car.

Our Friendship needs not be confirm'd by Talking ; Antonio knows how much Carlos would doe to serve him . Nor will I spend a Minute otherwise then in his Search . Unload thy self , and let me bear half the weight . Thou hast too much Love , and too much sense of Honour .

Ant.

Carlos , thou knew'st my Father well : methinks I see him just now breathing out his last , and with his cold trembling hand delivering up Elvira to my Care. Take her , said he , Antonio , the Treasure of my life , the Darling of thy lost Mother : and as thou hopest to meet us both in Heaven , swear never to marry till thou hast settled her . I swore ; and when I would have added more , he onely answered with a Smile , and seem'd to die o'rejoy'd .

Blest man ! how unsuccessful was thy Care ! And 't was to perjure me thou mad'st me swear . We Interest and Honour urge in vain , Where Lust and Passion absolute do reign . Exeunt .

SCENE 2. A Chamber in the Inn. Elvira , Clara , in mens Apparel : Elvira like a Knight of Malta . Elv.

ARe we alone , Clara ? each step I take I feel a Dagger at my heart . Wretched Woman , how am I fall'n ! Oh the blest time , when innocently we spent our days in pitying the rest of our frail Sex ! Am● I not a Monster branded for my Infamy ? Slave that I was to perjur'd false Vitelli !

Clar.

For Heaven's sake , Madam , don't weary me with Complaints . I swear the long-ear'd Devil I rid has laid me up this month . I fansied my self ●lying , when I whipt and spu●r'd . They may laugh at Scholars , Tailours and Seamen ; but if a Chamber-maid in Breeches don't rid● with the wor●● of 'em , I 'll sell my Maidenhead for four Grapes , and they are cheap in this Country .

●lv .

Thou art still all Mirth : but sooner shall the Sun rest , then I live and not seek the false Vitelli. Base , cruel man , to leave his poor Elvira so ! Oh! I could curse him , would my Heart give leave ; but that belies my Tongue .

Clar.

Well , Madam , you know Clara is no Flincher ; but I 'd sooner undertake to know a Bee amongst a Swarm , then find out a Man in this Crowd whose Name you 're as uncertain of , as you are certain of his Dishonesty . This Will-of-the-wisp of Love wants Wit as well as Eyes . Aside .

Elv.

I 've often heard him say , ( and sure all he said could not be false , ) that his Attendance upon the Counc●l of State would be necessary towards the recovery of an Inheritance ; so that I conclude him here : and were he amongst millions , I have too much reason not to know him .

Clar.

The truth is , you have been pretty intimately acquainted . Aside . Not to fright you , Madam , but prepare you for the worst ; ( though the truth is , we Women seldom fail at a pinch ) what if your Brother should come to the Celebration of the Royal Marriage , and find us here ? how would you avoid a certain Ruine ?

Elv.

It will be impossible for him to make me more wretched . But ' midst this Concourse , thus disguis'd , it will not be easie for to meet , much less to know us . Let what will come , I am too miserable to fear a Danger , and onely wander to find variety of Torments .

Clar.

Nay , good Madam , no more Whining . 'Slid , did I knight you for this ? or will a few driveling Tears find your Lover , and escape your Brother's Fury ? Think how ill S●iveling becomes a pair of Breeches . Could I ever mistrust that You , that had the courage to leave your House and Country to turn Knight-●rrant , nay more , plainly tell your Brother by your Letter , you had yielded up your Fort to a strange Cavalier , should come to talk of Danger and Wretched ; things fit for Boys thoughts and Womens fears , not for Knights of Malta ?

Elv.

Thy Innocence maintains thy Mirth : but what can wrong'd Elvira doe , weigh'd down by a vast load of Shame , that sinks my very Soul ?

Clar.

There 's your little imp●●tinent Nicety , to call that Shame , Women spend their lives to purchase . Why , there 's not one in hundreds that you meet , that seem devout and melancholick , but are contriving to throw away that Toy you wot of : and 't is the first Lesson their Mothers teach them , to lose it handsomely .

Elv.

But that I know this design'd to divert my Cares , thou wert past hope of Pardon .

Clar.

Heaven knows how dear I pay for all this Mirth . Aside . Pardon , Madam , ( Sir , I should have said ) I expect none , whilst I am in the right .

'Faith , methinks this Cross becomes you . Was 't gain'd by some strange Atchievement against the Musselmen ? or is it for fear the Women should run mad of such Sweetness , that you put this Cross over your Plague-door ? Truth is , the●e may be danger of Swelling for those come near it .

Elv.

I shall lose all Patience , and wish you miserable as my self , if you persist in this Idleness .

Clar.

That 's pleasant● you 'd perswade me you 're Woman too●●●ome , Sir , 't is not that Cross shall bear you harmless . I know a Vow may be broke to save a Maid's longing . Oh my heart ! whither do I ramble ? Aside .

Elv.

All thy Counterfeit cannot ●aise me to a Smile . Alas● it is already broke . But that fond Fool dares trust a man , though heightn'd with such Vows as would make the most perjur'd tremble , is deservedly lost . Credulous , rash , doating , sottish Woman ! didst thou not know him Man ? how couldst thou think him then to be believ'd ?

Clar.

Base that he was , to affront a person of your Honour , one that wears a Sword , and knows what 's what . Did he refuse me , to meet me in the said Field provided at all points , I 'd post him Coward , and hire Slaves to kick him .

Elv.

Ah Clara ! hadst thou but seen his pale and ghastly Looks , but heard his Sighs and Vows . Then would he kneel , and weep , and press my Hand ; then ●ise , and swear again with such dreadfull Imprecations , nothing that was Woman could resist . I 'm sure I did not ; false to my self and too-too-loving Brother . Would I had ne'r b●●n Woman : nor would I yet be Man , for I should be still far worse , and still more false . Yet would I were any thing but what I am .

Clar.

I 'm like to have a blest time on 't ; and all this for the loss of a Ma●denhead . 'Faith it scares me so , if there be ever a Receipt in Spain to keep one , 't shall be the first thing I 'll purchase : but I 'm afraid 't is very dear , and hard to come by .

Enter Dormilon .

Oh here 's my Landlord : never man came in better time .

Dor.

You re welcome , Gentlemen ; I hope your Lodgings please you .

Elv.

Very well , Landlord , we are quickly pleas'd , so they be private . But I fear you 'll be crowded against this great Solemnity .

Dor.

Nothing can disturb you , the House is large , and this the most ret●r'd part .

Elv.

What other Strangers have you ?

Dor.

Yet onely one Gentleman and your selves .

Elv.

Do you know from whence he came ?

Dor.

No , I assure you .

Clar.

Prithee , Landlord , see our Dinner be made ready , and our Wine good and w●ll cool'd : as hot as the weather is , I must have one H●al●h to the Royal Pair .

Enter Boy . Boy .

Sir , a Gentleman just now alighted calls for you .

Dor.

I 'm coming . Your Dinner shall be ready with all expedition .

Exeunt Dormilon and Boy . Elv.

In the mean time we 'll take a turn in the Yard , and see this New-comer .

Clar.

I 'm glad you have so much Woman in your Passion , as to be able to dissemble before Strangers .

Come , Sir , be brisk and gay , strut like a young Knight new dubb'd . So , that becomes you , and is tempting .

Though the Men false and cruel you may find , You yet may conquer all the Woman-kind . Exeunt .

SCENE 3. The Inn-Yard . Vitelli , Dormilon . Dor.

WIll you please to see your Chamber ?

Vit.

Not yet ; I 'll stay here a while for my Servants that are coming .

Dor.

Are they much behind ?

Vit.

I guess , not ; for coming early this morning from Iyescas , my man left my Portmantue behind him , and brought in stead of it a Stranger 's that supt with me . But before we had got a league from thence , we found the Errour , and I sent them both back to change it . I hope they may speed , for the Gentleman was not stirring when we set out .

Dor.

Is he coming this way , Sir ?

Vit.

No , he came from hence .

[ Within Tonto . ] Hostler , take in our Mules , and get 'em some fresh Straw .

Dor.

'T is like these are those you expect .

Enter Tonto and Crispin with a Portmantue . Crisp.

Never tell me , he must ride upon some Devil bridled and saddled .

Ton.

Would he would take him into his possession then ; he has brought us into a fine condition .

Crisp.

' St , there 's my Master . Well , Tonto , that hanging Look of ●hine always foretold ill .

Vit.

Have you brought back the right ?

Ton.

No , Sir , one much lighter in it● stead .

Vit.

Curse on you both , Slaves ! I am utterly ruin'd , without hopes lost● Why did you not pursue him ? Dogs !

Crisp.

Whither , Sir ?

Vit.

To Valentia , Rascals .

Ton.

Why , Sir , he was no more going to Valentia then you back to the Indies ; but , as a Shepherd told us , took the upper way hither . Some Robber , Sir , on a Gennet got by the Wind : had he strid any thing else , we must have reach'd the Town before him .

Vit.

Careless Slaves ! your Lives shall be some little Recompence .

Enter Elvira , Clara. Elv.

Hold , Sir , this were a Punishment too great , and most unworthy of your Sword.

Crisp.

'T was not our fault : your coming out so early occasion'd the Mistake .

Vit.

Dog ! but mutter towards an Excuse , and I 'll silence thee for ever .

Elv.

Pray , Sir , give me leave to advise : 't is not your Passion will recover what is lost ; rather think which way you may retrieve it .

Dor.

If he be once hous'd in Town , 't will be as difficult to find him , as an Honest woman in an Embassadour's Liberties . Your onely way will be , to send to watch his coming : 't is likely he 's yet upon the Road.

Vit.

Thanks , Gentlemen — Tonto and you go several ways ; and if you hope for Pardon , bring some tidings of him .

Crisp.

Here , Landlord , take care of this . Exeunt Ton. Crisp.

Dor.

Your Loss must certainly be great , that makes you thus concern'd .

Vit.

There was in it to the value of twelve thousand Ducats in Gold and Jewels .

Clar.

A Loss sufficient to undoe a Banquer .

Dor.

This is a course Welcome to Madrid .

Elv.

We cannot blame your Passion , caus'd by such a Misfortune .

Vit.

The Wealth is much below my care , could I but recover some Papers , which I would redeem with twice the sum .

Elv.

They needs must be of great import , to merit such a Ransome , and of too near concern to admit a Stranger 's inquiry .

Vit.

No , Sir , that Cross you wear declares your obligation of succouring the Distrest : and if you will so much relieve my Sorrow , as to hear my Story , I would beg your Company in my Chamber .

Elv.

I willingly shall wait you , Sir , and beg you will not scruple to admit my Friend .

Vit.

No , Sir ; two such Counsellours may in some measure ease my Grief , and prove necessary to one so much a Stranger in this Court and Kingdom . — Landlord , shew a Room .

Enter Boy . Boy .

[ To Dor. ] Don Luis desires to speak with you .

Dor.

Take this , and shew the best Chamber . Gives him the Portmantue . I 'll wait you immediately , Gentlemen .

Exeunt all but Dormilon . To him enter Don Luis . Luis .

How fares my honest Friend Senior Dormilon ?

Dor.

Ever ready to serve the noble Don Luis .

Luis .

Have you any news yet of my Nephew Peralta ?

Dor.

None , Sir : for though I cannot pretend to know him by his Face ; I should soon guess him by his Discourse , were he amongst my Strangers .

Luis .

He has orders to trust hims●lf to your care . I my self should ●carce be able to challenge him by his Looks , it being thirteen years since he le●t Madrid for Flanders .

Dor.

His killing the Ensign was unlucky ; especially in this nick of time , whilst it deprives him of so fair an Estate as his Brother has left him .

Luis .

I 'll venture mine to procure his Pardon , and make a Composition with the Widow ; which I do not much doubt of , if he escapes those that watch his coming into the Town .

Dor.

Her knowing of his coming is strange .

Luis .

'T is certain , and that she has so far prevail'd with the Corrigidor , that he has commanded all his Alguazills to apprehend him , if possible , at his arrival . Which is the reason I wrote him word to Valentia , where he has lain conceal'd , to come to your House first ; mine being continually beset ever since he left Flanders .

Dor.

As soon as he comes , you shall have notice ; and here he shall be safe as in S. Isidor's Church .

Luis .

Senior , I thank you . I am now going to meet the Widow at the Palace about the Reconcilement , judging much easier to buy her off before he is in Custody .

Dor.

Fortune attend you , Sir. Money is a prevailing Advocate .

Luis .

When that once fails , we must submit to Fate .

SCENE 4. Vitelli's Chamber . Vitelli , Elvira , Clara ; Boy with the Portmantue . Vit.

BOy , leave us . Exit Boy .

Sir , I am d●scended of the ancient Family of the Vitelli from whence I took my name . My Father , of no mean Fortune , has long since contracted a strict Friendship with one Don Gomez Aranda ; and here in Madrid liv'd with greatest expressions of mutual Love. At last forc'd to part , Don Gomez set up his Residence in this Court ; and my Father past the Seas to Mexico , where he has ever since been : and I in that great City of the New World first saw Light.

Elv.

Was you never , Sir , in Spain till now ?

Vit.

Never : And the Occasion of my coming is to consummate a Match ( formerly agreed on by our Fathers , that this way they might seal and propagate their Friendship ) between the onely Daughter of Don Gomez and my self . The Painter makes me believe her fair and charming , and I arrived with all the Expectation of a longing Bridegroom ; but after a long Voiage find my self wreck'd on Shore .

Elv.

Your Loss can be no hindrance to this Affair .

Vit.

Yes , much ; my Letters are all gone I brought her Father from my own ; and I have no reason he should believe me on my ba●e Word , without farther Evidence to confirm him .

Clar.

Does he expect you , Sir ?

Vit.

That he hath done these six months .

Elv.

He cannot doubt the truth of your Relation ; or at least will so long suspend , till you can send to Cadiz , where I suppose you landed , and give him farther Testimony of being what you say you are .

Vit.

Your Counsel cannot be disputed ; I 'll immediately go seek him out .

Clar.

I should think it well advised to open this Portmantue ; 't is possible it may discover who has put the Change upon you .

Vit.

If any thing can be thought true a Villain says , he 's called Vitelli. 'T was ●ur being of the same Name that began this un●ortunate Acquaintance . But this I hope will evidence the contrary . 'T would adde to my Affliction , to have a Rascal justly claim the Name of my Family .

Elv.

Would to Heaven I 'd been a Stranger to that fatal Name , that like a Plague infects the air 't is mention'd in .

Vitelli breaks open the Portmantue , and Clara helping him empty it , among other things finds some Letters , and Elvira ' s Picture . Clar.

Heavens ! what 's here ? a Broker's Shop ?

Vit.

There can be nothing worth the search amongst such Rags .

Clar.

See , Sir , here are Papers , and a Lady's Picture .

Vit.

A Moor to my Goddess ; throw the Trif●e by .

While he looks on the Papers , Clara knows the Picture to b● her Lady's , and shews it her . Clar.

Do you know this , Madam ?

Elv.

Oh my Heart ! the very same I gave the false Vitelli.

Clar.

Never whine , but remember you a●e a Woman , and to dissemble , or all is ruin'd . We must be nigh a Discovery . Aside from Vitelli.

Elv.

The Trial is too great .

Vit.

You seem concern'd ; does that Picture cause it ?

Clar.

I was saying , Sir , there is something in this Look that seems strangely unfortunate .

Elv.

And I , that the Eyes had such a yielding Easiness , as might be betray'd by false Vows : and that here me thought the Painter had exprest such a languishing Cast as spoke the height of Love.

Vit.

'Faith , Sir , I am not curious ; but may pronounce the Lady miserable enough has fallen into the hands of this Ruiner of my Fortunes .

Elv.

Did the Beauty you adore much exceed this ?

Vit.

As this an Indian ; her very Figure was enough to make all men love , and its Loss to make all men die .

Elv.

This is not so despicable a Face , that a Lover ought to be asham'd of Constancy . Sure I am , as bad a one has oft been sigh'd for .

Vit.

By some fond Fools that never knew a Beauty ; but this is all Cloud to my Brightness .

Clar.

This will come to a Quarrel if not prevented . The disparaging a Woman's Beauty turns the tamest of the Sex to a Scold .

Aside .

Pray , Sir , what Papers are those ? this seems much from your Design .

Vit.

True , but entred on the discourse of one I love , I lose my self and Business . They are Letters . This to the most excellent Duke of Ossuna ; this to the Regent of the Council of Aragon ; this to the Marquis of Velada .

Clar.

By these he should be a man of Fortune and Repute , and not a Robber .

Elv.

The best way is to open one , 't is probable you will find his Name and Quality .

Vitelli reads . To the Marquis of Velada . My Lord ,

The Bearer of this is Don Manuel Peralta , Captain-Lieutenant of my Regiment , who for killing an Ensign on the Guard ( though highly provok'd ) is compell'd to leave this Place , to prevent the Governour 's Severity ; and flies to your Lordship's Protection , by whose favour I doubt not he will obtain a Pardon , which I earnes●ly desire ; as that of your Lordship for this Trouble given you by ,

My Lord , Your Lordship 's most humble Servant and Kinsman , the Earl of Pontilliana . Elv.

This has made all plain : the onely means is , to have present recourse to the Marquis , declare your Loss , and beg his Assistance in the Recovery .

Clar.

'T would require Haste , lest he prevent you with some new Cheat.

Vit.

I fly , and something like Hope gives me a good Omen .

Elv.

We shall wait your Return with impatience .

Sure I am , my Happiness depends upon your Success . Exit Vitelli.

Clar.

What do you think of Vitelli now , Madam ? Peralta I should say . You see he steals other things besides Maidenheads .

Elv.

But nothing of such Value , or so much past recovery .

Clar.

'Faith , Madam , were that all , ' twer● nothing . For my part , I think the Principal well sunk , so one can secure the Use : troth is , to lose that too , is something no Woman can well bear .

Elv.

Nothing but thy known Fidelity could secure thee from my Anger .

Clar.

What ? I warrant you 'd be grave , and thinking again ; Oh the fine Gentleman upon his Gennet ! how gracefully he bow'd ! the tempting Serenades , passionate Letters , Complements beyond resistance ; and when possest , all over Pleasure ! and then he kist , and vow'd , and left me full of Hopes , that equall'd all but present Joys .

Elv.

But disappointed , makes all Pl●gues and Death a Blessing . And 't is from these Thoughts the wretched Elvira falls to be a Lump of black Despair .

Clar.

By my faith , this is pleasant : neither well f●ll nor fasting . All the way we came ; Oh Clara , were it possible , nay did I b●t think it so , e're to see him , thou shouldst find me chearfull as in my Innocence : Now 't is more then probable we shall see him ; The Trial is too great , and I 'm a Lump of black Despair . Believe me , Madam , 't is unnatural for a Woman to fear in extremi●y .

Though Men with Counsel and with grave Debate , May better War , and judge Intrigues of State ; In Exigences We the Rule have got . No Woman e're could want Excuse or Plot. Exeunt .

The End of the First ACT.

ACT II. SCENE 1. The Inn-Yard . Fabio solus with a Portmantue . Fab.

THis Master of mine is as unaccountable as a breaking Merchant . To steal from Valentia through ways scarce known to a Foot-pad ; alight at the Town 's end just a noon , when the Heat makes the Streets empt●est , to avoid being snapt by the Officers ; and yet at the sight of the first Vail , forget all Dangers , and think himself as secure as a Confessour in a Church .

Enter Elvira , Clara. Clar.

Now I am confirm'd 't is he . For Heaven's sake , Madam , to your Chamber ; 't is downright Madne●s to make a double Venture .

Exit Elvira . Fab.

Certainly when the Devil wou●d show his Master-piece , he puts on a Petticoat ; and when he is not at l●●su●e , a Woman may save him the labour , and supply his place . [ Sees Clara. ] Here 's a fit Vermin to be trapt , a smug Youth , that the Trail of a Wench may lead as far as a Fox a pack of Hounds .

Clara sings .

[ To her . ] 'T is a merry world with you , Senior .

Clar.

Troth , Sir , he that can be sad with good Cloaths on his back , Money in his purse , and his Mistress Smiles , may he be condemn'd to the Gallies till he laugh .

Fab.

To curse him home , may he meet with such a Master as I have ; and if he never laugh till he give him cause , I 'm sure he must die a Slave .

Clar.

Is your's such a Turk ?

Fab.

Oh! the Great Turk , Sir ; and has by much a larger Seraglio : for all the use he makes of the whole World is to keep his Wenches ●n't .

Clar.

Pray how do you call your Hercules ?

Fab.

Since you will have it so , Hercules Vitelli.

Clar.

With what confidence the Rogue lies ! Aside .

By his Name he should be of a great Family .

Fab.

I am not Herald enough to know the greatness of his Ancestours , but to my knowledge his Issue is large ; about as numerous as the I●ws , and o' my conscience as much disperst .

Clar.

I have an Acquaintance here , a Knight of Malta , that would make a rare Companion for him .

Fab.

A Knight of Malta ? if he loves his Life , let him avoid him , for he has vow'd Destruction to all Pretenders to Chastity . You 'll scarce believe it , but the sight of a Nun through a Grate , though he thinks her chast upon force , puts him into an Agony .

Clar.

You are much deceiv'd , Sir , a Knight's Vow is but what forbids the chast use of Marriage , and leaves him at liberty to all the world besides .

Fab.

Nay , if he has a new way of interpreting his Oath , it may be ●hey may fadge .

Clar.

Methinks —

Fab.

No more , I beseech you , Sir , I expect him each minute ; and ●f I have not provided a Room before his coming , shall pay for this Prating .

Clar.

I lodge in this House , and when you are at leisure shall be glad of more of your company .

Fab.

Adieu , Senior .

Clar.

Poor Elvira , a Town-bull would have prov'd as constant a Lover . Aside .

Exit Clara. Fabio knocks , enter Boy . Fab.

A Chamber , Boy .

Boy .

Will you please to walk this way ? I 'll carry your Portmantue , Sir.

Fab.

No , Sirrah , I had a wise Father , that taught me to trust my self : by the Weight there may be the Indies in 't .

SCENE 2. The High Street . Peralta , Violante , Flora veiled . Per.

I Do confess , Madam , I have been Cock of the brisk Fools , that set up for Wits with railing against Love. But I now recant ; and my Pain has been so exquisite , since I had the honour to see you , that it may equal years of Sighs and Verses .

Viol.

I should not sooner know a practis'd Beggar by his Cant , then I do you for a formal repeating Woer ; one that takes notes from Plays , practises with his Glass , and concludes the next Woman he meets will be fond of studied Nonsense .

Per.

'T is barbarous to murther him with Wit , who has already yielded to your Beauty ; the Power of which you know too great to suffer a Dissembler .

Viol.

Sure you think me Daughter to the Knight of the Sun ; or my Beauty could never warm through this Cloud .

Per.

It does not extinguish the Fire , Madam , to hide the Flame that kindled it , that still burns and consumes .

Viol.

That 's in the road again : could we but perswade you Gallants to forswear Fire , Sun , Flame and Fate , you would court with as much Silence as the Turk's Attendants wait .

Per.

You shall bind me to any thing , so you will reward my Diligence , and understand by Signs . —

He courts her with affected Gestures and Signs .

Let these then speak for me . —

Viol.

A pretty Puppet-show , which when I am best at leisure , it may be I may throw away some few Rials to see again . Now I 'm in haste . Violante runs out .

Peralta holds Flora. Per.

Nay , ' saith , though your light F●igat hath gain'd the Port , I 'll make bold to seize the Tender , till I know of what Country you are .

Flo.

You 'll find a smart Resistance . She struggles again .

Per.

Now you 're mine ; but some kind Answers to half a dozen Questions frees you . [ Struggles still . ] Come , 't is but what th ourt bound to by thy Place . — Your Mistresse's Name , and where she lives : Quickly , quickly ; thou'lt be turn'd away for letting her lose a Gallant .

Flo.

Sure you think your self in the Suburbs , or Embassadours Liberties , to take this freedom . I 'd have you to know my Place is what 's honest and honourable .

Per.

And shall be so still for me , dear little Fury ! But canst thou doe any thing more honourable then to promote an honest Love ? Is it not pity a Gentleman should be ruin'd for want of two Words ? a Charity your Sex is seldom sparing in .

Flo.

I so perfectly hate you , I would lose that pleasure of Talking , did I not know , ( if you are truly in Love , which Heaven grant ! ) what I have to say will rid the world of you . Learn and despair then . This Lady is just now to be married . Who she is , you shall ne'r be told , that you may die for an unknown Mistress , and make the better subject for a Ballad .

Per.

Truth is , this Anger does become thee ; but for variety , and to shew the rest of your good Qualities , put on a relenting Look , and discover . — Thou art out of thy Calling to pretend to Secrecy . — By this thou shalt be kind . — [ Gives her gold . ] Though you design to make me Miserable , I know you will not make me a Forsworn wretch .

Flo.

You shew so noble a Constancy , that if I were to die , I can't forbear now . Oh , my Lady were a happy woman , could she hope for such a Lover . I vow , Sir , I did but try you ; and I 'll assure you , in my eye you are the properest , most accomplish'd Gentleman .

Per.

Now thou flatterest ; I can ne'r reward such Kindness — Prithee on .

Flo.

In short , Sir , for I shall be mist ,

Her Name is Donna Violante , sole Daughter to Don Gomez Aranda , who lives in this House . What will make your Pretences fruitless is , her Quality , and that she is already contracted to a Gentleman she never saw , and whom she every moment expects from India .

Per.

'T is ill , but not desperate , if you promise your Assistance .

Flo.

As far as I can serve you without endangering her Honour , and my own Honesty , which I 'll assure you , Sir , I stand upon , you have made me yours . Exit Flora.

Per.

This is one of the true Breed : some few that prove otherwise are of another Species . You may as well call a Wolf a Lamb , as her Woman that waits , and can keep a Secret , or resist a Bribe . — Well , the Devil does owe me a Spite , and has taken an opportunity of paying it . Certain it is , this Woman must be had ; but how , I fear 's a Qu●stion will ne'● be answered . Exit .

SCENE 3. Peralta's Chamber in the Inn. Fabio solus . Fab.

I Have a true Mule's life , Burthen and Provender . He was certainly bewitcht that first debas'd himself to Serve : but the downright Devil was in him that chose a Wencher for his Master . The wandring Iew is a staid House-keeper to him : 't is odds but the next Petticoat he meets carries him for Turky ● and there he may take a fresh one for the Indies . I have often wondred at two things ; one , what this Master of mine is made of : to my knowledge he has given away and lost more Hearts then our Kings have sent to people the New World ; and yet o' my conscience he has such a stock left , that were they well marshall'd , they might fight the French King this next Campaign . T'other is , what could possess me to be Shadow to this termagant Turk , whose onely Religion is to conquer Women . Why should not Don F●bi● sound as well as Don Peralta ? I 'm sure Historians impose upon us , or else the Family of the Fabii have been famous . And shall be agen , good Don Fabio . — Don Fabio . I have the advantage in the sound of my Roman Fore-fathers . Beso ' osté las manos . — muy criado de su merced . Excellent ! now will I walk in as much state as a Grandeé , and with the Wisedom of a Privy-councellour : and when Affairs of State prove too heavy for me , my Boy and Musician shall divert me with a Song . But in the mean time , till my Retinue is settled , I will vouchsafe to be Boy and Musician to my self .

SINGS . Hang slavish Fear : The names of Man and Master is a Chea●● 'T is Dog-like to be rated here and there . I will resolve , and shall be Great . I set my self at Liberty : W' are all by nature Free. 'T is onely Law that makes us Slaves ; Law first obey'd by Fools , and made by Knaves . He that will be a Don , Follow me , he is one . He that will not his Freedom restore , Was got by a Jew , and nurst by a Moor.

Humh ! what a nick of time does this Master of mine chuse ! Now do I see the Don running from before my Name , and leave poor Fabio to shift for himself ; and feel all my Privy-councellourship trill down to my very Heels . But Fate still takes pleasure to ba●●le vast Designs . Thus when the Wheel of Fortune turns , Oh Spain , thy great Escurial burns .

Enter Peralta . Per.

What Company 's in the House ?

Fab.

None of note that I hear of , but a Knight of Malta .

Per.

Where 's my Landlord , Senior Dormilon ?

Fab.

Abroad , otherwise I had acquainted him with your being here .

Per.

'T is lucky that you mist him , for I must yet be conceal'd ; therefore on your life dissemble my true Name .

Fab.

So , the Devil and my Master have been juggling on some new Design . Aside .

Per.

The great Hazard that I run is , lest my Portmantue should betray me . Where is that was left in its stead ? That may discover who made the Exchange , and contribute to its recovery .

Fab.

Here , Sir , may the Worth answer its Weight , and I can't be less then Don for the lucky Mistake . Fabio opens the Portmantue .

Per.

Open and search it . What 's there ?

Fab.

Why , Gold and Jewells , Sir , without count . The Gentleman has paid dear for an old Suit and dern'd Linnen , and some few Bills that should have been discharg'd . Here are Letters too —

Per.

How 's this ? To Don Gomez de Aranda ? the Father of my ador'd Violante ; and this no doubt the Indian they expect .

Fab.

A Lady's Picture , Sir.

Per.

The same : By Heaven her Picture too ! Hah ! Why am not I then the true Vitelli ? for that 's the Name . I well remember began our Acquaintance ; and that he told me the hopes of a fair Wife brought him to Spain . He that loves can't want Impudence , and these Evidences must stand the nicest Search . 'T is resolv'd . — Put all up again , and make it fast .

Fab.

I think you resolve well● this Country's hot● and Company troublesome . Besides , you 're used to Flanders . The Mules shall be ready , Sir ; Gold 's no Burthen .

Per.

What 's that you mutter , Rascal ?

Fab.

A Journey , Sir , would be necessary , and healthfull● this Crowd may breed the Plague . To be plain , let me beg of you to fly with this Treasure . In a short time you ●ay purchase your Pardon in spight of this dissembling Widow , and never trouble your Fri●nds to petition for 't ; and in the mean while , by the strength of this live as Great as the Governour .

Per.

No , Villain , I have Business of gr●ater consequence in hand ; and when that 's done , will return it to the Owner . Mean-spirited Rascal , to guess I would enrich my self by such base means !

Fab.

Will you but wink till I run , Sir ? I have ventur'd Hanging in your Service e're this for six ●●ivers a day , with the Appurtenances of Poor-Jack and Bisket .

Per.

No more , Slave ; make it up , I say .

Fab.

And the Picture too ? —

Per.

That I shall have occasion for .

Fab.

Here 's one Doblon , Sir , I am strang●ly smitten with . May not I have that for Contemplation ?

Per.

Not a Rial , Dog ; take it up and follow me . And know from this time forward I am Vitelli , lately arrived from Mexico , and that you are now come with me from Cadiz . And upon these hints improve thy faculty of Lying . Exit .

Fab.

Yes , I am an Indian , and am forc'd to value Gold at as little rate as those Fools . A pox of Honour and Hon●sty , 't is as impertinent to a man and troublesome as a Maidenhead at fifteen , and as necessary to be parted with at the first good occasion . Exit with the Po●tmantue .

SCENE 4. A Parlour in Gomez house . Violante , Flora. Flo.

HOw could I doe less , when I had taken the retaining Fee ? Besides , Madam , he spoke with such a prevailing Earnestness , that I , that never had an aversion to a proper Gentleman , could not help it .

Viol.

A proper Gentleman ! one of the forward pretending Fops , that have half a dozen fine things to say , and when they are done , prove as dull as an outworn Poet.

Flo.

This Railing with us Women is as certain a sign of Love , as Huffing with the Men , of Cowardise . — But it shall go hard or I 'll find it . [ Aside . ] — In earnest , Madam , the Gallant dresses well . Did you mind his Fre●dom and court●y Mean ?

Viol.

Dresses well ? so does a Tailour's Prentice : and what you call Freedom is onely Impudence pickt up by keeping Ill company ; such sort of Wit as a man of sense takes more care to avoid , then such Triflers do to con it .

Flo.

This confirms me . —

Aside .

You 'll allow his Person manly and agreeable ?

Viol.

I confess I have seen some few in a Crowd less desirable : but put him altogether , he 's one of the last men I ●hould chuse .

Flo.

You may be perswaded to see him again for all this Aversion .

Viol.

Yes , if you can assure me I may doe him a Mischief by ir . — I wish I had never seen him — Aside .

Flo.

Since you are so nice , I hope your Mexi●an will prove one made of Wax , without a Fault or Blemish .

Viol.

You 're always disturbing me with things I hate . I tell you , I will have nothing to doe with Mankind either of the Old or New world . But of all things never name this Stranger more .

Flo.

I hope I may rally a little on him , for that I design'd at first , onely I fear'd it might offend you . I 'll try you this way . — Aside .

By my troth , Madam , I wisht you with me , for certainly never any thing was so worth laughing at . Besides what he said to you , he has not Language enough to ask what 's a clock , or commend a S●it of Linnen . 'T is as raw a Fool as ever came out of a Nursery .

Viol.

Thou art always in extreams ; I could not perceive so much Simpleness : I should have guess'd he had been a little at least conversant with the World.

Flo.

Right . — No , believe me , Madam , he sn●akt like a Boy before ● Mother-in-law ; and I am apt ●o think we are the first Women he ever adventur●d to speak to , and he threw me this Purse meerly for fear I should have jear●d him . I was about teaching him to hold up his Head , and make a Leg● but the● he ran for t .

Viol.

This is impossible ; all he said to me was consistent and courtly , his Address gentile , and Shape becoming . But you a●e still finding fault with what you have not wit to understand .

Flo.

Am I so , Madam ? and I am now your Aversion , for abusing this Stranger . Could you in agi●e your Cunning laid so deep , that one of your own Sex could not see through it ? All the harm I wish is your Ind●an may prove half so taking . But I have done , and here come● one will plague you enough on that ●ubj●ct . Exit Flora.

Enter old Gomez . Gom.

I warrant you Girls have been tal●ing of a Husband , and I can't blame you . I made my Wife confess she thought of nothing e●●e . — That Look won't doe , Vil. — I know it longs , and so forth . Come , come , your Mother tells me you 're a Woman , and so forth . — That 's enough , Vil , —

Viol.

We had Discourse that was much more se●ious , Sir.

Gom.

Nay , by my troth , Vil. thou art fit to be married now thou canst dissemble so well . — But do'st thou know , Girl , he 's coming ? — hah — does it not move , affect , and so forth ? — A word to the wise , Vil. —

Viol.

Sir , I know nothing but my Duty .

Gom.

That 's right , take the India's then . Oh , if he be like his Father — Vil. — I 'll say no more . But for a sparkling Eye and Wit , we were the same , and carried it ; knew all the Poets and Players , and writ Prologues ; nay , I had once the credit to be nam'd for a Lampoon . Time is , time was , Vil.

Here 't is , Vil. — [ Shews a Letter . ] Each minute I expect him , and shall take it ill not to see a young Vitelli in a twelvemonth .

Viol.

I hope , Sir , it will be no breach of Duty to ask some time to consider .

Gom.

Consider ? — why , thy Mother and I were smitten , bargain'd , and so forth , before you could pluck up a Veil .

Viol.

I must not be accounted disobedient ; but yet —

Gom.

Nay , that Toy of Modesty becomes thee , &c. but I 'm your Father , Vil. and though merry , know what 's what , Vil. — I give you leave to make up your mouth , &c. — But when he comes , expect a Curtesie , and , I thank you , Sir.

One knocks . Enter Flora. Flo.

What a curst thing is this not to have my Q — Aside . Sir , here 's a Gentleman would speak with you .

Gom.

Has he no name , and so forth ?

Flo.

I never saw him , Sir.

Gom.

Retire , Daughter . — If it be the man you wot of , go in and twitter , you shall be call'd .

Flo.

Whatever this Stranger means , I wish he had all my Bribe to be fairly rid of him . Exeunt Viol. Flo.

Enter Peralta , Fabio with the Portmantue . Fab.

Your right leg foremost , Sir.

Per.

Sir , when I tell you I am Don Pedro Vitelli , and come from India , I hope I may beg a Welcome ; this I know , my Father g●●e me some assurance of it .

Gom.

Don Pedro Vitelli must challenge Welcome as long as I am Don Gomez , &c. And how does the good Gonzalo , my old Friend , your Father ? Thou mak'st me weep for joy . Just such was he , when we began our first Acquaintance . — I should have known thee in the Street , thou art so like , the very shape and face , &c.

Per.

I was always thought like him , Sir.

Fab.

Yes , as a Bear 's an Elephant . The Old man 's as fond of the Cheat as my Master of the Wench . Aside .

Per.

This Letter I was commanded to deliver from my Father , with Thanks for the great Honour you design'd his Son.

Gom.

Honest man ! — Yes , yes , this is the old Hand and Style to a very tittle . He reads .

You are doubly welcome — . Let me embrace you : my Joys are so compleat , I scarcely can contain my self . Embraces him .

Fab.

Not so hard ; he 's weak in the back since the last Cure.

Gom.

He tells me he had once thought to come with these Gallions ; but then I had been too happy .

Per.

Yes , Sir , he did , but some unexpected Business has deferr'd his purpose till their next return . In the mean time , Sir , he has sent me as a Pledge and Token of his ancient Friendship .

Gom.

And trust me , a welcome one . Nay , my Daughter shall tell you so too — Flora. — By Saint Isidor I was so overjoy'd to see you , I had forgot to give her notice of your Arrival .

Enter Flora.

Tell Vil. the happy Minute's coming , bid her put on her best Looks , and so forth .

Per.

Sir , I beg you would let this be disposed of in your Closet , about twelve thousand Ducats in Gold and Jewels , what I could bring conveniently from Cadiz ; the rest will be sent .

Gom.

I 'll be your faithfull Steward . Flora , shew the way where it may be laid , and hasten your Mistress .

Flo.

[ To Fabio . ] Come , Sir , if you dare follow .

Fab.

I never refus'd a Challenge from a Woman .

Exeunt Servants . Gom.

Fie , fie , this Girl makes me out of patience . —

Enter Violante .

Oh here she comes . — Come hith●● , Vil. this is he ; Look and like , Vil. 't is thy Father's Choice , and a wise one , though I say it . — I know you young people have some fine things to say to one another , &c. therefore I 'll leave you , and talk a while with your Man about the Affairs of the New World and the like . Fabio returns .

Per.

He will be able to say something , though you can expect no perfect account from one of his Breeding : — at leisu●e I shall satisfie you , Sir. Gomez and Fabio at a distance .

Now , Madam , I hope you will allow me more Freedom then when you cruelly shunn'd my Addresses ; and one that leaves the world he was born in , meerly to serve you , may justly expect some kind of Welcome .

Viol.

This Encounter is more strange then the former : and I can scarce imagine , the man that took so long a Journey for a particular Mistress , would make so zealous a Court to the first he meets . The Lady in the Veil has the promise of that Heart to my knowledge .

Per.

And to mine too , Madam , or else this deceives me — Shews the Picture . Could you imagine one that had spent a year in Contemplation should not know you at the first glaunce ?

Viol.

And yet you brib'd my Maid to learn my Name .

Per.

True , onely to take an opportunity of giving something to one I knew I must be beholden to .

Viol.

Your Trial of me was not too kind , Sir.

Per.

I confess , Madam , there 's something extravagant in what 's past : but I hope Curiosity and your Goodness will excuse it — Nor was it fit I own'd my self , till I could produce such Letters and Treasure as might secure me from being thought an Impostour for the future . —

Fab.

Yes , Sir , my old Master studies night and day : he is just now writing a Book , and intends to dedicate it to you .

Gom.

Then he has outstript me ; I could never arrive farther then a Madrigal , &c. — And how is Mexico to Madrid ?

Fab.

Catch me at Descriptions , and I 'll hang for 't . Aside .

What 's more wonderful then any thing in the Old or New World , he is a great Poet , and yet vastly rich .

Gom.

What kind of Court does the Vice-roy keep ? is the Palace magnificent ?

Fab.

'Faith , Sir , I think I may venture to tell you , 't is whisper'd my old Master knows no end of his Wealth .

Gom.

Are the Streets large and fair ? what garb do the Indians keep ? &c.

Fab.

My young Master , Sir , may be worth — let me see — a million of Ducats ; and when his Father dies —

Gom.

This Fellow's mind is all on Money : a shallow Rascal . — But these Answers are to my purpose : for if he be Rich , &c. let the Woman run the rest of the Hazard , and the New World be as ' twill .

Aside . Fab.

I am sure I have kept to windward of the Law , let my Master look to the upshot .

Gom.

This I like , this looks as Man and Wife ; and may ye be as happy , &c. as Gonz●lo and I can wish you . To Peralta .

Per.

Sir , there can be nothing less then Happiness accompany the Poss●ssour of so much Goodness . And if she think me worthy of her , I must go into a Third World , to learn something new to wish to make me more blessed .

Gom.

See you there , Vil. that 's a Flight : many one of them , and such like , have I had in my Youth . Old Gonz●lo still ! — Well , Son , your Father and I were Wags , &c. in our young days .

Per.

Each thing you say reminds me so much of him , that were not I thus doubly blest , I should think of Mexico .

Gom.

Well , Vil. for a Man and Wealth thou art fitted ; and she that looks for more must die , &c. This World I 'm sure affords nothing — Come , Son , we 'll go in , you 're weary , and I long to discourse you : for this Man of your's is none of the great Intelligencers . Exeunt .

Fabio , Flora , stay . Fab.

'T is ten to one but we shall play the old Romantick trick , and while the Knight and Lady are at work , the Squire and Damsel imitate .

Flo.

I shall like you well enough , if you have another Romantick trick too , of drowning or hanging your self , if you see me displeas'd . For the truth is , you have a Face I would fain be rid of . Exit .

Fab.

Not so willingly as I would free my self of this House . — What a-Devil can come of a thing built upon a Quicksand ? This they may call Love and Adventures : but he that can foresee a good End of them need never despair at the Gallows . But so it is — When for a Wench our Voiage is design'd , We boldly sail against both Tide and Wind. Exit .

The End of the Second ACT.

ACT III. SCENE continues . Peralta , Fabio in disorder . Fab.

ON my life , Sir , 't is he ; the very Vitelli whose Portmantue we hav — I see him with Don Gomez .

Per.

Curst Fortune ! in the very minute ? two Hours had possest me of her .

Fab.

What do you think of a fair and honourable Retreat ? — This is the way out . —

Per.

Dog ! I 'll think of nothing but Victory ; and will be , and am Vitelli , Son to Gonzalo . Think me any thing else , and I ll cut thy throat .

Fab.

You may be what you please : but I hope you 'll allow me still to be Fabio , and to think my self in great Danger . I know it nothing concerns you .

Per.

Coward ! no Flinching ; but follow my Example , and lie like thy self , we will still carry it . In the mean while let 's retire , and contrive to meet the worst .

Fab.

There needs no great Contrivance , it will meet us . — For my part , I 'll lurk hereabouts for Intelligence . Exeunt .

Enter Gomez , Vitelli. Gom.

But , prithee Friend , have I so silly a Face , and so forth , that you could pick no body else out so fit to put a Cheat on ? Good faith you 're deceiv'd in old Gomez , he understands Trap , &c.

Vit.

I cannot yet understand why you mistrust me ; I 'm sure I expected ●uch another Welcome from one I lookt upon as Father .

Gom.

I 'll say that for thee , thou' rt a pleasant Fellow , and hast as lucky a Count●nance to conceal a Cheat as one would wish to purchase . But this is a little too gross — and how came we to be so nigh of kin ?

V●● .

The Respect I bear you keeps me from taking any thing ill ; nor can you by the worst of words force me into a Passion with the Father of Vi●lante , whom Gon●alo made m● believe I should at my arrival from the Indies call Wi●e .

Gom.

And so you shall , if you can lay any just Claim . But you ●ay with the same Considence pret●nd to the Kingdom o● Spain , &c. and with much the same Success , believe me — Violante ? — ha , ha , ha . —

Vit.

That you are Don Gomez you your self assure me , nor am I less Don Vitelli. That Violante is your Daughter you own , and Gonz●lo your Friend , for whose Son you have design'd her . Why then does all I say seem Riddle ? Is it the custom of Spain to mock those they style Friends ? if so , the Indians are much less barbarou● .

Gom.

The Devil take me , and so forth , if this Fellow have not a pretty wheadling confident way with him . I 'll confound him a little . —

Aside .

Well , Sir , since you will be Vitelli , I know you have often heard your Father speak of me , and how we spent our time when young .

Vit.

No day , Sir , but your Friendship is his subject ; and this he bids me imitate . Tells how you vied in Arms and Arts ; often wishes ( though blest with Wealth ) he had never left Spain , but still enjoy'd your Company .

Gom.

V●ry fine . — I 'm much beholden to him , &c. Did he never enter into particulars of our A●fairs ?

Vit.

Yes , I 've heard him say , when Fellow-students , you had one Purse ; that the same Books , the same Company pleas'd you : and that your Fancies kept so even pace , that you often joyn'd upon the same Subject without the difference of the Style perceiv'd .

Gom.

I wish this Fellow's Shoes were off , that I might see whether he has cloven Feet or no. How could he possibly know this else ? Of what Age , what Stature and Complexion is he ?

Vit.

In all agreeable to you , and what he says so like your way of Speech , that sure I must call you Father . One think remarkable and private too is a S●ar on his right Side , by a Wound receiv'd in a Duel wherein he was your Second : and you , Sir , as he told me , was then run through the Thigh , being on the same day you should have married .

Gom.

This Truth startles me . Aside .

Do you know to whom ?

Vit.

Yes , Sir , Donna Beatriz Cruz●d● , whom you first saw at Saint Isidor's Church , and that a month after your Marriage was consummate .

Gom.

'T is a clear case , I am not Gome● , nor this my House , nor he within Vitelli ; no , no , all 's a downright Mistake . — Friend , dost thou know whether there be two Gonz●lo's , and two Vitelli's , that love and know by Sympathy ? or art not thou som●thing of a Spirit , and so forth ? ha ?

Vit.

The Gentleman 's distracted . Aside :

Sir , this I know , that I am the man I pretend to b● , and grieve to ●ind you thus .

Gom.

Where you pick up these Truths , is b●yond my power to guess● but. I can demonstrate you f●lse and coun●●●●●it . Fo● if true , where the Jewels , and so forth , you wrote you would bring with you ? shew my Daughter's Picture I sent , your Father's Letters , and all that .

Vit.

That 's my Misfortune ; this very morning I was robb'd of all : but if you will have patience to wait —

Gom.

This I knew would tickle you . Let old Gomez alone to find out a Cheat , and so forth . Stole from you ? yes by the right Owner , who brought them to me .

Vit.

To convince you , I know to a Rial what 's in the Portmantue , each particular Jewel and Paper .

Gom.

This is some Confidence of another World , and almost distracts me . — Within , call Don Vitelli.

Vit.

Use not my Name to such a Villain ; for so I dare pronounce and justifie him .

Enter Peralta , Fabio . Fab.

Ne'r fear , I have over-heard all , and can help you in a stress . — To Peralta entring .

Don Fernando , Sir. Aloud .

Per.

This is argument of great Kindness , to make such haste from Cadiz to be at the Wedding of your Friend . Welcome , dear Fernando ; for so I dare bid you to the House of him has given me leave to call him Father .

Gom.

New Riddles still !

Vit.

Steel'd Impudence ! — how canst thou with confidence pronounce so damn'd a Forgery ?

Fab.

We got well hither with our Treasure , to which I believe your good Wishes contributed .

Vit.

Slave , the Place secures thee . —

Gom.

You 're acquainted then , and so forth . —

Per.

The onely Friend I had in Mexico ; we were Neighbours , School-fellows , and in the same Ship arriv'd at Spain : nor can any one give you a more perfect account of my Father or his Affairs ; for I know nothing I have conceal'd from him .

Gom.

He has hardly used you like a Friend , without Cheat , Villain , &c. are signs of Love amongst you . — Nay , with Confidence he endeavour'd to face me out he was the true Vitelli.

Vit.

And with the same honest Assurance stand here to make it good .

Per.

This is like thee , always driving on some piece of Extravagance . — But trust me , Fernando , this is so unseasonable , as to break our Friendship , if persisted in .

Vit.

I scorn thee , am , and always was a Stranger to thy Friendship ; and here pronounce th●e Cheat , Thief , Murtherer . Beware , Old man , you warm a Snake will leave a fatal Sting .

Per.

Could I believe you were in earnest , I should be ang●y , Sir ; but for this once forgive .

Vit.

I demand nothing but Justice , and by Heaven will have it .

Gom.

What can he design by all this ?

Fab.

Why , Sir , you have had experience enough to know the World 's wicked , and Love powerful .

Gom.

Yes it is , always was , and always will be , &c.

Fab.

I have had long a Jealousie that he was not right . For when my Master produc'd his Jewels , and shew'd his Treasure , he would so eye and sigh ; and at the Picture cast such wanton amorous Glances , that I fear that 's the true ground of his haste from Cadiz , thinking to prevent us . Then I minded he catcht at each Story that might seem very particular ; as one my Master was the other day telling of a D●el , and a Wound you received in the Thigh . Nay , he was so inquisitive , that he would count the Money and Jewells .

Gom.

I have no Doubt left ; there 't is I warrant . This Devil of Love invents more Tricks then a Iew ready to starve .

Fab.

Then , Sir , he has a plaguy wheadling Tongue , and such a set Look , that he was made to deceive .

Gom.

So he has , and by my troth had deceiv'd me , if he had come first . But bless my Stars , &c. that shall suddenly be prevented .

Per.

If nothing will do , from henceforth you are my Enemy , and as such I shall next meet you .

Vit.

Dare but quit this House , and no other Sanctuary shall protect thee .

Gom.

Desperate Villain , be gone , &c. or else an Alguazil shall provide you a Lodging .

Vit.

Was ever Age thus blinded ? Stay but my returns from Cadiz before you conclude .

Gom.

No , this very night shall consummate the Match with the Noble Vitelli.

Vit.

No , Don Gomez , you throw her away upon a base Deluder ; who is indeed a Souldier of Flanders , fled hither to gain a Pardon for Murther .

Gom.

This sounds like Forgery . You have no choice , but quit the House , or to Prison .

Per.

See how wild his Story is , and how quick Passion makes his Invention . Be gone , or this shall force it .

Vit.

I 'll go , because my being confin'd will render me absolutely uncapable of Remedy . — But I shall expect you have so much Honour left as to meet me in the Prado .

Per.

I will , and with my Sword chastise this Ins●l●nce . An hour hence let it be .

Vit.

Agreed . But I shall scarce fight such a R●gue , till I have secur'd my Mistress . Exit .

Gom.

Well , Son , this Adventure is so extraordinary , that w●re your Father and I as when time was , the Players should not have wanted a Comedy , nor an Audience , &c. though I say it . — What , melancholick ? —

Per.

You must give me leave to reflect a little on the Loss of one I thought my Friend , nay doted on , and would have yielded all things up to satisfie his very Curiosity , but Violante . —

Gom.

Come , an ●ll thing 's better lost then found : the World grows worse and worse , &c.

You have reason to b● satisfied , you have so timely found his Falshood .

Fab.

Let me beg you would urge that ; for no man loves with such Truth , nor no man grieves with such Sincerity .

Gom.

For shame , Son , I shall think you repent your Voiage . Let 's in , and my Daughter will make amends with true Affection .

Per.

The name of such a Remedy makes me forget my Disease ; and she is now my onely Friend , as well as Mistress .

Exeunt . Manet Fabio . Fab.

Bating some odd hundreds , and so forth .

Enter Flora going over as in haste .

[ To her . ] You can never be in such haste as to refuse the profers of a sincere Lover .

Flo.

The very name of Love from one I hate adds wings to me .

She strives to go . Fab.

Not so fierce , good Damsell ; though I have no Portmantue of Jewells , I have some Treasure about me I brought from the Indies , you 'll like much better .

Flo.

I warrant some petty Shells and Baubles , things I scorn as much as I do you . My Mistress were miserably provided , were the Master and Valet alike .

Fab.

Come , ●ine Sentences are not for people of our quality . To have and to hold's the word ; and the licking of the Posset-bason when they have done will save charges , and yet look Princely .

Flo.

No , Valet , next to you I hate nothing more then what has been pall'd .

Fab.

Except a Petticoat , and that of sixteen removes ; yet must be thought to look new , like the Chambermaid after being paum'd by the whole Family .

Flo.

Still fresher then a Suit that after three generations in the Indies must be new turn'd for the Wedding .

Fab.

Come , 'faith never deny 't , if thou hast pawn'd thy Utensils for Lees of wine and Chippings , or art contracted for Gizzards , and the fifth quarter of a Hen call'd the Guts , I desist : otherwise , which is the top of your Hopes , I offer you Flesh unblown , Fabio the sound and trus●y .

Flo.

To convince you of my Aversion , I had rather live a wrinkled Maid of sixty , and then be burnt for a Witch , then have any thing to doe with thee .

Fab.

This looks so like the Courtship of our Form , that it is no less then an evident token of Love — which thus I seal . —

Offers to kiss her . Flo.

And thus I deliver . —

Gives him a box on the ear , and runs out .

SCENE 2. The Inn. Elvira , Clara , Vitelli. Elv. to Clara.

I Am now resolv'd ; therefore without disputing about what I commanded you . — Exit Clara.

Vit.

I have told you all in short ; and he that is more miserable must meet something yet unknown . To be outfac'd , rejected for a Villain , tied up by Nicety and Respect from Revenge , without a prospect of retrieving my Right , is what the most patient must want temper to bear .

Elv.

Wherein I can serve you , you may with assurance command , and I am apt at present not to think my self altogether incapable .

Vit.

I da●e promise my self any thing from so noble a Succour . — Bless me therefore with something like Hope .

Elv.

The means how , I beg you will not inquire into ; but I have some reason to be confident of a Design will defer the Marriage till you can hear from Cadiz : whither I advise you would immediately send post .

Vit.

This would secure my Happiness , and a little time gain'd certainly discover the Cheat.

Elv.

To prevent all Danger , if he comes out according to appointment to fight you , prepare Alguazills to seize him for the Robbery . It cannot be dishonourable thus to treat so base a man , and vindicate your self . Before he can procure his Liberty , your Post will be return●d , and all be clear'd . This requires dispatch , therefore haste ; within half an hour I 'll meet you .

Vit.

I have just reason to suspect him too false to keep his word ; my greate●● confid●nce is your Conduct . Exit .

Elv.

What this will come to , is as impossible to guess , as that it could ever come to this . But I 'll in , and hasten Clara. — Once on the Ground , I can no lower fall : And venture nothing , though I venture all . Exit .

SCENE 3. The High Street . Carlos , Antonio . Car.

SInce you have reason to despair of finding one in a Crowd , whose person you have no knowledge of , make this Tumult a Diversion ; at least defer these melancholick Thoughts . Thou art now something more extravagant then Love could make thee . Nay , would I curse a man , I 'd wish him as nice a sense of Honour as Antonio .

Ant.

I know my self to blame : but all I see of this great Preparation has so much unaccountable , taudry Gallantry in it , is so far from what I think , that to me Sickness would prove greater Pleasure then that the rest of men seem fond of . Carlos , I am not what I was ; all my Ambition , Dotage of youth and Beauty , make but one intire thought of Hatred and Revenge : and could I satisfie this Passion , I should die with more delight then assured Mar●yrs suffer .

Car.

In earnest , Antonio —

Enter Clara half veiled , in Womens cloaths , who seeing them pulls it over her Fac● . Ant.

Ha! that Face I have seen . —

Cla.

Now cannot I move a step ; my masculine Spirit with my Habit leaves me . I have nothing but my Woman 's Cunning to trust to .

Aside . Ant.

'T is she , Carlos ; the very Clara , Pimp and Confident to Elvira . — Baud ! — Antonio goes to Clara.

Clar.

You cannot think your self in Spain , or that you talk to one of Quality , to treat me thus . Nor could any thing but your M●stake of the person perswade me to forgive this Insolence .

Ant.

Impudent Strumpet ! would I had ne'r had cause to know thee . Unveil , or I 'll tear it and thee to pieces .

Clar.

Stranger , you 'll repent this horrid Rudeness . Know , people of my Rank cannot want Revengers of their Honour .

Car.

What do you mean , Antonio ? 't is dangerous to force a Veil in Court : you may mistake .

Ant.

I tell thee she 's my Sister 's foul Associate , and Seller of her Honour . — Discover , or by my Father's soul —

Antonio lays hold of his Dagger . Clar.

Hold , Sir ; 't is I. —

Ant.

Base Devil ! thou shouldst not live , were it not to tell me where Elvira is .

Car.

Be moderate , Antonio , your Threats will fright her from the Truth .

Clar.

That , Sir , Heaven be my witness , I am as ignorant of as those that ne'r saw light .

Ant.

Confess , or each minute shall invent new Punishment to rack it from thee . Thus with little Tortures I 'll begin — and let out some of thy loose Bloud .

Car.

This is a Transport unworthy of thee .

Ant.

Should I trust a Rock I have already split on ? Confess , or by —

Clar.

Be not so cruel , and I 'll tell you all .

Car.

Give her time to think , Antonio ; this Encounter may prove most lucky .

Clar.

But this time , dear Invention ! and let me die a Fool. —

Aside . Ant.

About it then , and I will be patient .

Clar.

That fatal night we left your House , I waited on her to the Convent of Molbietro , where your Aunt is Abbess ; who entertain'd her with no small Grief , when inform'd of the Accident that drove her to that Sanctuary ; whence she dispatcht me to this place in search of he● f●●se Vitelli.

Ant.

Of Hell , then which this Lie is falser .

Car.

To me this Story seems probable .

Clar.

So Heaven and you afford me Mercy as 't is true .

Ant.

When came you hither ?

Clar.

Not three hours since I alighted in this Inn , where I found —

Ant.

Whom ?

Clar.

Vitelli.

Ant.

Vitelli here ? Oh let me fly to my Revenge ! On , good Clara. I can almost forgive thee .

Clar.

As I came out , he left his Chamber in search of a Servant he is sending out of Town , and cannot be far off .

Ant.

If this prove true —

Clar.

Why should you suspect me false , when 't is my Lady's intorest you should find him ? But to leave no Scruple , I 'll conduct you to his Chamber , and produce unquestionable Testimonies . This you must remember , it is no longer Vitelli you pursue .

Ant.

More tricks yet ? who then ?

Clar.

What I shall discover will convince you . 'T is Peralta , a Captain fled from Flanders for a Murther , and took Valenti● in his way . All this I learnt from Papers of his left in his Chamber , which I thought I was bound to search , when I knew they belong'd to him ; that I might give a good account to her that sent me .

Car.

This news is beyond our expectation or hope .

Ant.

'T is what I 'll improve to his certain Ruine .

Car.

First by fair means ( which you have often promised me , if he was a Gentleman ) you must retrieve her Credit , by offering him to marry her . They whisper .

Clar.

Indian , you must pardon me , since to secure my Mistress , her Lover and my self , I expose you to the first shock of Antonio's Rage : and good faith , Charity begins at home .

Ant.

Come along , and direct us to this Chamber of Discovery .

Clar.

This way , Sir. — Can I but get clear of you , and give my Lady timely notice , — discover what you can .

Aside . Car.

I must preserve Peralta , if possible , for the fair Elvira's Safety : For that depends on his , and if He dies , She too must fall nice Honour's Sacrifice . Exeunt .

The End of the Third ACT.

ACT IV. SCENE 1. The Inn-Yard . Vitelli , Crispin booted . Crisp.

THe Horses are ready , Sir.

Vit.

Take this then , [ Gives him a Letter , ] and shew your Kindness to your Master by your quick Return . — One thing more .

While Vitelli whispers to Crispin , Enter Antonio , Carlos , Clara. Exit Crispin● Ant.

This looks like truth .

Clar.

For more certainty see where he stands . Points to Vitelli.

Ant.

Is that my Enemy ?

Clar.

That 's Vitelli , or Peralta , which you please , or both . — I hope this Shift may free me , and I 'll still about the dispatch of my Message . Aside .

Antonio goes to Vitelli. Ant.

Your Name 's Peralta , Sir ?

Vit.

I neither own the Name nor Temper of that curst Villain . What I really am I dare speak , which is , Don Vitelli.

Ant.

Thou' rt a Villain under both Names , and as such I 'll use you .

Vit.

I can scarce think my self born of a Spaniard , to meet such Rudeness as my nature perfectly abhors .

Ant.

Damn your Sentences — and know your Forgeries and you are discover'd .

Vit.

To none that dare name my Actions so , and know me .

Ant.

Yes , Villain , Elvira's Wrongs and mine shall proclaim them And if thou hast so much Valour to defend thy self against the Brother , as Cunning to betray a wretched Woman , draw , and know 't is Antonio heightned with a just Revenge that bids thee .

Vit.

This world is all Madness and Mistake . — Could I but think you were not deceiv'd in the Person , and had not too good reason to know the true Peralta deserves all this , I should not thus tamely dispute the Wrong .

Ant.

What , Coward too ? and think to conquer me as my lost Sister by Words ? — Draw , or by Heaven I 'll doe the act of Justice , and rid the world of a perjur'd Slave . —

Vit.

Provok'd thus , I must be more , or much less then Man to suffer . They draw .

Carlos with his Sword interposes to part them . Clar.

What will this come to ? — Those Officers at the gate shall determine the Quarrel . Clara runs out .

Ant.

Friendship 's a Name , Carlos , when it stands in competition with Honour and Revenge . — What , must Antonio live and see ( good Heavens ! ) the Ravisher of his Sister safe ? — By all —

Car.

What I urge is your Promise , and her Honour . And if he will make up this Breach by Marriage , you create a new Enemy to refuse so just Terms .

Vit.

Little Hecks ! do you think with a seeming Quarrel to force me to the keeping of a Whore , and take off your stale Goods ? No , shew your selves for Cheats , and both assault me ; whilst the innocent Vitelli dares thus undauntedly oppose you .

Enter Clara with Officers . She points to Vitelli. Clar.

That 's he , — seize him . And at your own peril be his escape . — I have too much kindness for Vitelli , to let him perish for Peralta : a little Confinement will break no squares . The Officers seize Vitelli.

1. Offic.

Seiz'd by us the Devil can't escape .

Vit.

More Complices ? Thieves ! Murth●rers ! lose me , or —

2. Offic.

No , Sir , Murtherer falls upon your own head , and 't is the Ensign's bloud you shed in Flanders that calls for Vengeance .

Ant.

Let him at liberty , and I 'll revenge it bravely , and save the dull Ceremonies of Law.

1. Offic.

You owe us Thanks that you are not confin'd ; this Quarrel deserves it .

2. Offic.

If you consult your own Safeties , away .

Car.

Come , Antonio , you must know the Town too well , not to understand a Retreat necessary in this case . Antonio , Carlos retire .

Vit.

What can you mean , Gentlemen ? I ne'r saw Flanders nor Spain till this last Flota from the Indies●

1. Offic.

This won't do , Sir , we are told of Writings in your Chamber will convince you , whither we intend to carry you , and thence to Prison .

Vit.

Curst Peralta ! now thou hast secur'd thy Designs . Gentlemen , I hope I may beg leave to speak with a Knight of Malta in the house before my Confinement .

1. Offic.

No , Sir , we must and will prevent a Rescue : onely take your Papers with us , and then secure you .

Dormilon enters . Dor.

What means this Disturbance in my House ?

2. Offic.

Onely the Seizure of one Peralta for a Murther .

Dor.

Peralta ? this will be sad news to Don Luis . — Aside . I 'll be his Bail.

1. Offi● .

The Crime admits of none ; along , Sir.

Exeunt Officers with Vitelli. Dor.

The Widow has been too cunning for us ; and that Don Luis must speedily understand . Exit .

SCENE 2. Long Street . Antonio , Carlos . Ant.

CLara escap'd , and Peralta secur'd from my Sword ? something must and shall be done . Nor is it fit the Law punish a single Murther , whilst mine and my Sister's Honours remain unrevenged . I 'll arm him my self , and in his own Chamber fairly kill him .

Car.

Yes , and suffer in his stead , while milder means may dompass your Designs . And if Antonio dare trust me —

Ant.

Trust thee , Carlos ? yes , with Life , with Honour , All , I freely do . I find I am not fit to guide my self . Henceforth thy settled Judgement gives me Laws ; but still remember my Sister's Wrongs , and where Peralta is . — Oh that Name !

Car.

Pray , no more , your hasty Rage has already prov'd Clara's loss , whose recovery will be necessary to our Affairs . She cannot yet be far ; therefore let us round this Street : half an hour hence I 'll visit the Prisoner , and doubt not to get more by Fair words and Promises , then your Sword could extort .

Ant.

Should he accept your Offer , the cause of his Imprisonment brings his certain Ruine with my Infamy .

Clar.

There 's no danger on that side : a sum of Money prevents the Prosecution , and gains his Liberty . For 't is as great a Miracle for a Rich man to be hang'd , as a Poor man to scape . Exeunt .

SCENE 3. Chamber in the Inn. Elvira in Womens cloaths , Clara very rich . Elv.

I Am much too miserable e're to hope to make thee amends .

Clar.

You make your self so with fine Speeches . Let me learn you what Dangers Resolution and Cunning may avoid . Think now of nothing but a ●it Story to wheadle old Gomez , who will instantly be here .

Elv.

Had I but thy Courage , I could not fail● but as I am , something thrills through my Bloud , and makes me tremble . How can I think to impose upon him with a false Story , who so steadily repuls'd Vitelli's true one ?

Clar.

And so easily believ'd Peralta's , that was as false as yours . I tell you , Madam , he has a believing Countena●ce● and looks like one of our politick News-mongers , who are sure to entertain a Story for being strange , and of themselves find out Reasons to make it probable , then conclude it true .

Elv.

How did he receive my Message ?

Clar.

Like a Gentlema● ; and when he read a Lady's Honour was concern'd , told me , he would defer the greatest Business of his Life , which was the Marriage of his Daughter , till he had waited on you .

Elv.

This was courtly .

Clar.

There 's no doubt of him ; had I that Face and Cloaths , I 'd undertake to cully half the Dons in Madrid with a Li● ten times more unlikely . — There t is : That Cast , and a little Assurance , is infallible .

Elv.

This Mirth would conquer any body's Misery but mine .

Clar.

One thing I foresee , that the Seizing of Vitelli must something alter your Design . — St. One knocks .

This must be the Don. Clara goes ●o the door .

Enter Don Gomez . Gom.

Is this your Lady ?

Clar.

Yes , Sir. — Don Gomez Madam .

Elv.

Your Looks , and the Character the world gives you , speak you so much a Gentleman , that I shall need the less Excuse for this Rudeness .

Gom.

Ha! what a Prize was this for one of twenty , a●d so forth ? — Aside . Madam , the world at the worst must say , Don Gomez always lov'd his Friend , and took pleasure in serving Strangers . And he that deserv●s this Character must be proud of the Commands of so fair a Lady . — By my faith she is , she makes my old teeth chatter , and so forth . —

Aside . Elv.

Sir , what I have to say is strange and startling , yet so fit for me to speak , and you to hear , that this Trouble is but necessary .

Gom.

The very stile I love too — Pray , on , Madam .

Clar.

The Old man listens as earnestly as a Bird in a Cage to a whistling Cobler .

Elv.

I can scarce believe one of your Experience and Wisdom would throw away an onely Daughter , fair and vertuous , on a Perjur'd man.

Gom.

Heaven forbid ! I 'd rather bury her in a Nunnery , and so forth : and let the Family of the Gomez●s perish .

Elv.

Yet such is the false Vitelli , whom you design your Son-in-law .

Gom.

You startle me indeed ; Vitelli my Son-in-law , false and perjur'd ?

Elv.

Yes , Sir , if breach of strictest Oaths and solemnst Contract deserve such terms . Too sure I found him so .

Gom.

Then I am lost . Pray , good Madam , methinks I should , yet Heaven knows how unwillingly I believe you .

Elv.

In short , for 't is grievous to tell a Truth to the Disadvantage of one I can never hate ; you see here the miserable Mariana , whom treacherous Tears , and such Oaths as the most j●alous could not but trust , betray'd to Love. 'T is too plain , all men must be false , when after such Vows Vitelli can prove so to me — wretched Woman !

Gom.

Trust me , Madam , I can weep , and so forth , at your Misfortunes — But hope you mistake the Person that is their cause . For this Vitelli I have entertain'd , has not been long enough in Spain to make a Contract , scarce see a Lady .

Elv.

No , Sir , 't was Mexico first gave me life ( nor can my Fortune or Relation shame Vitelli , ) and there my Heart was stole with fair bewitching words , and such tempting shows of real Love as might dispell a settled Hatred . — Yet can you think it , Sir , this kind protesting man , this Vitelli could prove false ? false , oh my Heart ! to Mariana that so lov'd him ?

Clar.

Brave Woman , she almost makes me believe her .

Gom.

You will not think it rude , if I take leave in a Business of such weight , to clear some Doubts . &c. before I give full credit .

●lv .

So far from that , you will oblige me by your Questions , the nicest of which I know I can satisfie you greatest Curiosity in . For , alas ! Sir , that and its Circumstances take up all my Care and Thoughts .

Gom.

I ask then , did his Father know any thing of his Love ? and by what means did you arrive ?

Clar.

No , that he still kept conceal'd , for Reasons I could never guest . Till finding my self forlorn and left , that very morning we had appointed for our Marriage , by diligent search I understood he was gone for Spain , to Marry your Daughter . — Arm'd then with Love , which emboldens the most fearfull , disguiz'd , I pursued him in another Ship , and a day after him landed at Cadiz ; whence I am now come to beg Relief in such a Cause as must concern every man's Honour that pretends to be generous , much more Don Gomez , and the Father of Violante .

Gom.

Base Vitelli , thou canst not be Son of good Gonzalo , nor e're shalt call me Father . — What a Scape was here , and so forth ! —

Aside . Elv.

That he is the Vitelli that I challenge , this will witness ; given with such moving Passion and such Charms as has ruin'd the poor Mariana . Shews Gomez Peralta's Picture .

Gom.

This I know all true , and this the very same I once thought to call mine . — But if —

Elv.

What I beg is , you would endeavour to restore an unkind Husband to the most unfortunate of Women . For , false as he is , I can forgive , whom I find I must ever love

Gom.

If there be Laws , Justice , &c. in Madrid , I here engage to see you righted : nor is it more then the great Obligation this Discovery lays upon me may justly challenge .

Elv.

I would , if possible , avoid Severity , for I must suffer when he is punisht . Let him but he perswaded to come hither , and I have some hopes he will not refuse to own me .

Gom.

That , Madam , shall speedily be done , and my Daughter brought to wait upon you to my house . For this publick p●ace is not fit for your Quality .

Elv.

Heaven must reward such Goodness , Sir.

Exit Gomez . Clar.

This is right , and the Old Trout rarely tickled . Nor was there any other means of getting Peralta from his house , before the design'd Marriage was consummate — I 'd give half my Maiden-head , to her how the Don will teaze him , and so forth .

Elv.

Something w● still want to make our Plot successful , the Release of the true Vitelli from Prison ; which must infallibly ●uine Peralta's Pretences ; and to give my Brother timely notice , that thus aw'd I may secure him .

Clar.

I 'll undertake both , and in my old Disguise to the Prison , where 't is odds but we find some Expedient . As for your Brother , his Lodgings are so near , he may be soon sent for . But how convenient that will be , knowing his hot Temper , must be consider●d of .

Elv. This I resolve , I 'll be Peralta's Wife , Or to my Brother's Rage expose his Life . Exeunt .

SCENE 4. A Room in Gomez house . Peralta , Fabio . Fab.

NEver had Mischief such Success : for certain you were wrap● in your Mother's Smock , and that a fine one too . The Old man is so confirm'd , he wreaths himself into the Toil , as if he resolv'd never to get out .

Per.

What may come of it hereafter I can't guess , but I am sure to enjoy the Woman , and that will recompense twenty such Hazards . All that seems unlucky is Don Gomez hasty Business , which defers a while our Marriage . But I resolve not to stir to answer Vitelli , till Violante's mine past recovery : for though I have no aversion to Fighting , I love a fair Lady much better .

Fab.

By my troth , the ugli●st would carry my Affections from that ; and certainly man was made to increase the world , not to destroy it . But under favour , Sir , I hope you won●t be so unfashionable to duel for your own Wife .

Per.

No , Sot , I duel to kill Vitelli , whose mouth once stopt , who lives in this world to contradict me ? And within a year , which is the soonest I can be discover'd , I question not but with a Trick I have so to please the Lady , that all will be reconciled .

Fab.

This was a Master piece beyond my dull reach ; and now I dare pronounce you happy , for 't is a sweet one .

Per.

'T was pleasant to see , when the Old man would be offering at Questions , how the present of a Jewel diverted him ; and the story of a large Stone ( which for all I know may be an Indian Pebble , ) that I told him was one of the fam'd Jewels of the great Montezuma , seal'd up his inquisitive Humour , and deliver'd him mine .

Fab.

Yes , Sir , I observ'd then he hugg'd , and call'd you dear Vitelli , Picture of Gonzalo , and onely one he would call Son. I 'll swear I have seen a whole Comedy his had less Sport in 't .

Per.

Is the Priest ready ?

Fab.

Yes , yes , and has nothing to doe this half hour , but contrive a tolerable Leg not to be laught at .

Per.

It must doe , without some Devil-Intelligencer owes me a spite : if so , this is his time to nick it .

Fab.

Doe● the Devill has not Cunning enough , were you his Enemy , to prevent it . I went into the Kitchin , and the Cooks are as busie as a new Politician imploy'd on guess : follow'd Flora up stairs , and found an experienced Matron making the Bed to the best advantage .

Enter Gomez , Violante . Per.

Here comes my Father and my Life . Now I venture to call you so , since my Joys are certain .

Gom.

Never in worse time . Know , Sir , he that is once perjur'd , and so forth , must be trusted by Fools , not old Gomez ; mark that .

Fab.

Here 's a Showr in the midst of Sunshine . Aside .

Gom.

Come , you study for some paltry Excuse● but be assured I have found you base and treacherous .

Fab.

Would I had a Musket on my shoulders in Flanders .

Aside . Per.

You 'll give one so perfectly innocent leave to be amaz'd at so great a Turn .

Gom.

Must Gomez be pickt out of all men to be abused ? or is this Maid an object ●it for so base a Design ? No , Sir , I shall provide you a Wife more suitable , and take care to secure you from the Danger you were running headlong into , and so forth .

Per.

I can dread no Danger but your Displeasure , and the Loss of her I so in●irely love .

Gom.

You give a great proof of it , whilst you thus contrive h●r Ruine .

Per.

I have done nothing but what a violent Passion forc'd me to , nor is my Quality so mean.

Gom.

I know your Quality , and so forth , and grieve a Gentleman so nobly born shoul● with such Baseness shame his Family .

Fab.

Heaven grant he don't shame that , and the Family of the Fabii at the Gallows .

Viol.

I shall forgive the Injury , if you return that Passion you speak of , to her you have quitted to impose on me . — Assure yours●lf henceforth you are more then a Stranger to Violante .

Per.

Elvira's Wrongs discover'd too ? curst Portmantue ! this is past hopes . Aside .

●om .

Your G●ilt may well silence you .

●er .

The unthought-of Charge well may , with the greatest w●nder .

Gom.

That will soon cease , when you shall see the fair and vertuous Mariana , whom you call'd Wife in Mexico ; and has thence pursued you hither .

Per.

'Sdeath , I had laid Snares for my own catching .

Aside . Fab.

Bear up , Sir , the wind veers fair again : this must be a gross Mistake , and at worst give us leave to run for 't .

Gom.

The mention of her Name may well disorder you , and so forth . If it be Remorse for deserting her , it may make some small Amends . Poor Heart ! she must forgive , though she has but little cause to love . And were she my Daughter , and so forth . —

Per.

I can scarce think I want a Pardon , when I am a Stranger to my Crime . And all Womenkind may as justly lay the same Claim as Mariana , whose very Name I ne'r was yet acquainted with .

Gom.

That you are Vitelli , Son to Gonzalo , and so forth , I am fully satisfied , nor am I less , that she speaks truth , from whose own mouth I heard it .

Per.

Is not her Discourse wild , and she justly to be suspected to be beside her self ? Pray , Sir , consider how unlike this is the Son of that Gonz●lo you call Friend .

Fab.

I have waited on my Master ever since he could think towards Man ; and let me beg your Pardon , Sir , have ticed him to Women , for fear he had no sense that way : but when he saw this Lady's Picture , he was convinc'd , for the very first week he would gaze and kiss ; so that I left off Perswasions . — But ne●r as yet heard of any Mariana — or any other , was she ne'r so beauteous , in Mexico , that could divert his Thoughts . — This , Sir , I offer my self to swear .

Per.

Though this Witness may be of proof , yet so much do I trust ●y Innocence , that all I beg is , you would let me see this Lady . If she can so much as name me with Assurance hers , which is the greatest Cu●se , here I relinquish all my Pretences to what I doat on .

Gom.

This I like , though I have little reason to believe you willingly undertake . Come , Daughter , put on your Veil ; we 'll go to Dormilon's , the Inn you say you lighted at , and there expect you . — Yet his Treas●●e secures him from running . Aside .

Viol.

I wait you Sir , — and thank my Fortune , this suspicion has l●ss'ned my growing Love. Aside .

Per.

Adieu , dear Mis●riss , till the next Meeting shall approve me constant . ●x●unt Gomez , Violante .

[ To Fabio . ] Where am I , Fabio ? within these few minutes , I would have quitted my Pretences for the very hopes of Liberty .

Fab.

By my troth , Sir , for once take a Fool 's advice ; and now you may have it , never pretend more . For though this is some forsaken Virgin follows the true Vitelli ; yet true Stories laid together will grow too strong for Lies ne'r so well wrought .

Per.

Thou art always Coward in the very nick of Victory . Is it not much easier to perswade him she is some common Jilt , hired by Vitelli to disappoint our Marriage , then to outface the true Vitelli ?

Fab.

All I say is , Sir , with your Assurance I should have made an excellent Servant . Now I know my self modest , and so not capable . —

Well , 't is hard when a Master takes ones calling from him , and incroaches on the very Secret of Lying that maintains him .

Aside . Per. He 's doubly curst is foundred near the Shore : Fortune the Rudder guide , I 'll pull the Oar. Exeunt .

The End of the Fourth ACT.

ACT V. SCENE 1. A Prison . Carlos , Vitelli. Car.

BElieve me , Sir , so much a Friend to Honour and Justice , especially in a Lady's Quarrel , that nothing but Confinement could secure you from Revenge .

Vit.

Believe me , Sir , to understand so much of Honour and Justice , that nothing but my Restraint should bear these Injuries : and be assured I am as far from knowing the Lady you speak of , as what you are ; I will not say Trapans , for that may look like Railing and Cowardise thus disarm'd . — But —

Car.

'T is a Phrase belongs so properly to none as such deny their Names . And were I Peralta , no Hazard should so unman me to disown it .

Vit.

I have scarce Patience under such Su●ferance to deny that once again . — Hell take the true Owner ; and were I again amongst the barbarous Indians , I would spend my Life in railing at what you think Civil .

Car.

All this and more might pass , did I not know it counterfeit● and what I urge , to the Advantage of one of more Fortune then you can pretend to . You too well know Elvira .

Vit.

Is a Strumpet to be impos'd on Fools ; nor am I so dull , tha● the fear of a false Imprisonment should marry me to a Whore.

Car.

One more such word , and by Heaven the Laws of Honour cannot secure thee . Strumpet and Whore , to one I name otherwise , though so , were Death .

Vit.

I as little fear your Threats , as understand your Niceties of Honour : but this I dare boldly urge , she that will court an Acquaintance can be little better . — But should I allow her Vertuous , what is she to me ? or why must I needs be sixt upon by the Name of one I hav● such just cause to hate ? Or why should you mistrust a Story that must seem probable at least to the most prejudiced ?

Car.

This seems an honest Confidence , and the Maid might be a Dissembler . Aside .

Vit.

Once more I tell you I am Vitelli , a Stranger to Spain ● that I was robb'd by this Peralta , both of my Treasure and Mistress , and have nothing in exchange but those Papers and old Cloaths , on which you ground this Mistake . And were I at liberty , my Sword should make the Villain confess this Truth .

Car.

These strong Denials make me begin to doubt ; and should you prove what you say you are , I have reason to beg your Pardon , though my just Concern for the Lady and her Brother will very much excuse this Earnestness .

Enter Luis . Luis .

Which is the Prisoner ?

Vit.

My being disarm'd may soon resolve you .

Luis .

This frees you . [ Shews him a Pardon . ] And now thou art so , I can joy to see thee● — Why so strange ? must not the Pardon tell thee , 't is thy Uncle that has obtain'd it ? And though thou art a Stranger to his Face , yet methinks the Kindness should make thee conclude me Don Luis , whom you have so long converst with by Letters .

Vit.

Gentlemen , if you have design'd to ruine me , do 't some more manly way . 'T is too cruel thus to prolong my Torment . Old Gentleman , your Age secures you from Abuse .

Luis .

Hah ! what 's this ? Ruine , Torment , Abuse ? what can Peralta mean thus to return so great a kindness as his Liberty ? especially to one he knows loves him , and on that account with greatest difficulty and charge has purchas'd it ?

Vit.

I know no Pardon I want , nor does that Dog that owns the name of Peralta deserve it .

Luis .

Be not so severe against your self : other Young men have been guilty of as great Faults ; besides , you kill'd him fairly .

Vit.

Leave , or I 'll study some greater Curse then Madness ever could invent , and make it my only Prayer it may fall upon you .

Luis .

You are much altered since you writ last from Valencia . — Pray , Sir , can you guess the cause of this Distraction ? it makes me weep . To Carlos .

Car.

Faith , Sir , I am much a Stranger ; unless it be his fear of Revenge for the Wrongs he has done a Lady perswades him to conceal himself , I am wholly ignorant . I found him much in the same Humour , and began to give credit to him till your coming .

Luis .

Dearest Peralta , be thy self ; if my Life or Fortune , which is no small one , can serve you , thou art safe . By thy Father's Soul I beg , who left thee to my Care.

Car.

This must be he . — Come , Sir , you know I proposed most honourable means of Reconcilement to Antonio ; and if you marry Elvira , whose Beauty and Fortune are too considerable for the proudest to despise —

Vit.

Hell take you both : or may you live to meet Miseries like mine● Do you not think Confinement plague enough , but must I be thus rackt with Lies and Nonsense ?

Luis .

Oh , Sir ! had you known him when young , for since I have not s●en him , this would afflict you . To Carlos .

Clara comes in with man's cloaths ● Vitelli seeing her speak● . Vit.

Oh , I have still one Friend left : welcome , Sir , for ne'r was Wretch so timely succour'd . 'Las , I have suffered past the Cruelty of Turks betwixt these two Tormentours .

Clar.

That 's Antonio's Companion , or I mistake ; but this Disguise protects me . — I wish it were in my power to ease you , or in my Friend 's , the Knight of Malta , at whose desire I now wait on you .

Vit.

They swear me down that I 'm Peralta . The man , you well know , deserves my utmost Hatred , and by Heaven shall feel it . — Tell me Stories of one Elvira I have wrong'd , of Murther I have committed : nay , the old Gentleman fawns and cries , and calls me dear Peralta , and offers me my Pardon and my Liberty mee●ly to abuse me . Is not this Sufferance beyond Patience , when I know all false and counterfeit ?

Clar.

This is an Opportunity not to be lost . — Aside .

Truth is , you act it brav●ly ; but the Danger 's past , and you may safely own your self . Aloud .

[ To Vitelli apart . ] Be Peralta , nothing else can gain your Liberty , and this to my knowledge secures your Mistress .

Gentlemen , you may think what you have heard strange , but the necessity of his Affairs I dare assure you made it requisite .

Car.

Prodigious ! what may not a man doe with this Impudence ? But his Liberty will be good news for Antonio , whom he must prepare to answer .

Clar.

Pray , Sir , let me undertake the Business , who throughly understand the Affair ; and will engage , if you bring Antonio to Dormilon's , either fully to make up the Breach , or that Peralta with his Sword shall give him Satisfaction .

Car.

That 's all I wish ; I 'll i●mediately go find him . — We shall expect you , Sir.

Vit.

Where ?

Clar.

At the Inn whither you are going .

Vit.

I will not fail . [ To Luis . ] Whither if you please to accompany me , which I am apt to hope , since you have so much Goodness to forgive me , I will unfold my whole Story .

Luis .

I can forgive him any thing I so truly love , and am confident some weighty Reasons urge you to this Denial of your Name .

Clar.

That you 'll be assur'd of when you know each Circumstance , but now 't will be too tedious ; besides , his Business yonder requires dispatch .

Luis .

Along then , I have already discharg'd your Fees.

Vit.

I wholly commit my self to your Management .

Clar.

Which with this unexpected Success cannot possibly miscar●y . Exeunt .

SCENE 2. Elvira's Chamber in the Inn. Gomez , Elvira , Violante , Flora. Gom.

'T Is no more then what I promis'd , Madam , and was bound to perform .

Elv.

This is too much Honour , Madam , and I am so perfectly a Stranger , that I must despair of a Requital .

Viol.

Your Acquaintance would doubly recompense , could this be thought an Obligation .

Elvira and Violante talk , Elvira ' s back toward the door , where enters Peralta and Fabio . Gom.

Come , Sir , now I hope you will prove your self a Gentleman , honest , and so forth .

Per.

I never was charg'd for otherwise by any one that understood me , and question not but to unravel this Mistake .

Gom.

Here 's your Vitelli , Madam , and I am thus far discharg'd of my Engagement . Elvira turns towards Peralta .

Per.

Elvira ? this is a Rock must split me .

Fab.

'T is not in the power of Impudence to save us . Aside .

Elv.

Have I once more met thee , cruel , false man ? it shall be hard to fly me . Elvira lays hold of Peralta .

Viol.

How strangely fond she is !

Flo.

It may be the Custom in Mexico .

Per.

Madam , if my being like the man you are so well acquainted with disturbs you , I had best remove the Object ; 't is unseemly to use a Stranger thus .

Elv.

No , Vitelli , for by that Name thou won'st me ; thou too well know'st the wrong'd Elvira , and those many Oaths that seal●d thy treacherous Love , e're to disown me . Canst thou forget Valentia ? those Tears that made me thine ? Is this the Recompence of too great Tokens of the ●ondest Dotage ? He flings from her .

Gom.

What can all this mean ?

Per.

Heaven knows , I am perfectly ignorant , nor to this time e'r● beheld her face . Had I , Sir , could you think me so cruel to despis● such Beauty ?

Elv.

Canst thou forget , when languishing at my feet you lay , and dying vow'd , thence ne'r to stir till I had granted your Request ? wone then , I easie Fool believ'd , and p●rished .

Gom.

There must be truth in this , no Woman e're could counterfeit to such height .

Per.

Truth ? all 's an evident Ch●at . You see she talks no more of Mexico and Mariana , but of Valentia and Elvira , names I'm a perfect Stranger to .

Gom.

Lady , this sudden change of your Story is enough to give me ground of Suspicion , and so forth .

Flo.

What can you believe , Madam ?

Viol.

Nothing , but I naturally pity the poor Woman .

Elv.

Consider , Sir , I had no other means but this Pretence to get him from your House , and save your Daughter from Ruine . I freely confess I am not Mariana , nor a Mexican : nor is he Vitelli , or an Indian ; but Peralta , a Captain of Flanders , who in his Journey hither stopt at Valentia , meerly to destroy the wretch'd Elvira .

Gom.

This is something of the Story the pretended Vitelli told , and so forth , is it not ?

Per.

Now you have hit it , the same ; and she without question one of Fernando's Dependants , hired by this Counterfeit to defraud me of my Mistr●ss . Does not this sound probable ?

Gom.

Most likely ; nay , I knew I should smell it , were it to be found above ground . Let old Gomez alone for Discoveries , &c.

Per.

I hope , Sir , no unlucky Accident can now disturb my Joys , but you will once more tell me I shall be blest .

Gom.

Yes , yes , we 'll about it presently . Come , Vil. a little Opposition makes the Victory more welcome . It will be no Rudeness to leave you alone , Madam ; I suppose you 'll quickly ●ind your Companion .

Per.

No question , Sir , she has plenty .

Elvira .

Base man ! re●lect upon my Honour too ? Stay , Sir , for H●aven's sake stay . Here 's one can witness all I say is truth , that has been the constant Messenger of our Loves . Speak , dear Fabio ; thou wert once all Honesty : I 'll treble all thy past Rewards .

Fab.

You need not bribe me to speak Truth .

Gom.

This is Trifling , and so forth ; but let 's hear him .

Fab.

I know you expect nothing but Truth from me .

Per.

Dog ! will he betray me yet ? Aside .

Elv.

Nothing else , dear Fabio ; this may at last be some Remedy . — Tedious Clara. —

Fab.

Why then , Sir , upon the word of an Honest man , I never before so much as heard of Valentia or Elvira ; and to my certain assurance , my Master knows nothing either of them or Flanders . This is what I can declare in short .

Elv.

Slave ! were I but a minute Man , thou shouldst not outlive this Lie.

Per.

You find , Sir , how she studies Delays , though it be to create Witnesses against her self . The Rogue lies with more con●idence then the boldest of others can speak truth .

Aside . Elv.

Since I am thus basely used , tremble at Antonio's Rage , who shall bravely revenge my Wrongs , and teach you what it is to scorn a Woman's Love.

Per.

This must be some Player that has been used to act a Passion , she does it with such Art.

Gom.

By my troth , her way of Speech and Action pleases me much . And were not our Business earnest , and so forth , I would stay to hear her .

As they are going , she stops● Violante . Elv.

As for you , Madam , whose Ruine I foresee equal with my own , let this Sea-mark warn you , and learn of her that teaches by Experience , not to trust those Angel-like bewitching Lips which with such power move , they might intice a Nun professing at the Altar ; yet are full as false and treacherous as you think me .

Viol.

'T is Custom rules me , and a Father's Will , not my own Choice . Were it in my power , he should be still your's , if he was ever so .

Elv.

No , no , I know you must love , and fondly doat ; I 'm sure the wretch'd Elvira did . Alas ! his Words are Charms , and each Action carries such Perswasive Eloquence , that were he not fal●e —

Flo.

W●ll , Madam , I am confident the Lady 's wrong'd .

Viol.

So far it works on me , as could I , to defer the Match a while , —

Elv.

Blessed Tongue ! but are you so much more then Woman , to withstand his well-weigh'd , insinuating Vows ? cannot Protestations made by subtlest art and dying Postures move ? for he used such to me , and such must conquer . But I am troublesome , and you will cur●e me for speaking ill of one I should still hate her that rail'd on .

Viol.

So much your Passion moves me , that , propose a way , and , if possible , I will serve you .

Elv.

'T is Impudence to beg so great a Treasure . It may be he 'll prove true to you , and 't was Elvira onely that was born to be thus miserable .

Enter to them Clara , Luis Vitelli.

Elv. to Clara. Oh Clara , still more wretched ! with a ●ixt Confidence he denies me , and obstinately says he is the Indian Vitelli. Is there the least show of Help ? speak , dear , dearest Clara.

Clar.

You make me mad to be thus passionate , when there is almost certainty of Relief .

Per. to Gomez . You see how fond she is of Men , and how well they are acquainted .

While Gomez and Don Luis talk to one another ● Elvira addressing her self to Vitelli speaks . Elv.

Yes , Sir , you see here the unfortunate Elvira , who in the Disgui●e of a Knight of Malta follow'd yon false , barbarous man. —

Pointing to Peralta .

My Misery makes me past all shame . Aside .

Vit.

This doubles my Hatred .

Clar.

No Whining , but have confidence of a Remedy . A little Patience and your Brother's coming must clear this Deceit . I 'll go try to wheadle that Rascal Fabio .

Gom.

None is more then my self a Servant to the good Don Luis Pacheco .

Luis .

I must always be happy to see Don Gomez .

Per.

That should be my Uncle by his Name ; if he knows me , I 'm compell'd to yield . Aside .

Clar. to Fabio . Is your Master , which you so commended , turn'd Indian since I last saw you ?

Fab.

Friend , I have some serious Affairs , which are not to be disturb'd by impertinent Questions .

Clar.

Good , grave Sir , give me leave . — There was a Rascal Fabio I have seen , that strangely resembled you , who pret●nded a smattering after a Damsel hight Clara ; have you met with such a one in your Travels ?

Fab.

Pert Sir , I am at present mela●cholick , and will know no body .

Clar.

Since you are so surly , it shall go hard but I bring you acquainted w●th the Gallows .

Gom.

Your Nephew that — Pointing to Vitelli. my Son-in-Law here tells me is one Fernando , was bred up with him at Mexico . Was 't not so ?

Per.

Right , Sir , and till this just Breach between us —

Pox on 't , I have spun my thread too fine . Aside .

Luis .

Assure your self , my Nephew is an absolute Stranger to the Indies . Till thirteen I bred him here in Madrid , and since he has spent his time in Flanders ; where unfortunately killing an Ensign , he was forc'd to sue out his Pardon , and not an hour since was releast .

Vit.

Believe , Sir , though I was glad to accept my Liberty on any terms , I ne'r yet saw Flanders , nor was e're in Spain till my landing at Cadiz . There stands your Nephew , if you think fit to own one so base ; who is the Robber of my Treasure , the actual Ruiner of this Lady's Honour , and great Designer on her I have a just Pretence to , might my Story gain credit .

Elv. to Luis , and pointing to Peralta . And if you call him Nephew , as certainly he is , you must own me for Necce , for ten thousand times he has call'd me Wife . Nor could his Ambition rise higher then my Fortune , which should have been intirely his , had he spoke truth .

Gom.

Good faith , had not I a stay'd Judgement , and so forth , this would half distract me .

Lui● .

'T is all Riddle to me , but I guess at a way shall unfold it .

Enter Antonio , Carlos . Car.

Remember your Promise , and keep your Temper : this I justly challenge from you , and exp●ct .

Ant.

I am nothing but what you will have me .

Elvira and Clara kneeling to Antonio . Elv.

Thus low I do implore a Brother's Pardon , but my Fault has found already too severe Punishment .

Clar.

I hope , Sir , you will forgive the exact Duty I ow'd a Mistress I so dearly lov'd . — 'T is Clara begs it , Sir.

Ant.

You have made me too much a Stranger to your Affairs to think me concern'd . But the Love I always paid Elvira scarce deserv'd so great Neglect .

To Carlos . I think I keep my word .

To Vitelli. As to you , Sir , ( for I hate long Stories , ) either be honourable , and repair this Lady's Wrongs by Marriage , ( I will not call her Sister , ) or prepare to die ; so base a Cause can hope no other Success .

Vit.

Still the same Errour ? would you have me marry one I am a Stranger to , and as Woman never till this minute saw ? But know , I am so far from thinking wrong , that this shall ne'r be drawn sooner then to serve her . Points to his Sword.

Ant.

By Heaven , these petty Shifts —

Car.

Antonio . — [ To Vitelli , ] That you are Peralta , you at our last Meeting own'd ; when this which now proves Clara engag'd you should make a Reconcilement . What means then this new Pretence ?

Vit.

By that I purchas'd Liberty , and now persist in my first Truth .

Elv.

Believe me , Sir , there stands the false cruel man , the treacherous Peralta . Points to Peralta .

Clar.

That 's the base Wretch , for so I dare call him ; and with This will revenge my Lady's Wrongs .

Lays hold on her Sword.

Per. to Gomez . You see , Sir , how they drive on their Conspiracy . A little more Impudence will perswade me out of my Name too .

Gom.

So much they perswade me , that I 'll ●●'n home . — Come , Vil. this Design 's at an end , for I 'll never marry thee at Uncertainties , and so forth . — Here 's two Vitelli's , two Peralta's , Fernando's , Elvira's , Mariana's , the Devil and all ; and yet neither Vitelli , nor Peralta , &c.

Vit.

This Delay is all I intreat to gain my Mistress , and a few days hence my Messenger's return from Cadiz will assure you I am Vitelli.

Ant.

I 'll kill them both , and that makes sure of my Enemy . —

Luis .

Then I 'll try my last means ; and 't is what I solemnly swear , from this minute never to call him Nephew , nor possess him of a Rial of my Estate , that does not immediately own me .

Fab. to Peralta so●tly . ' Sli●e , Sir , will you lose a hundred thousand Ducats for the hopes of a Wench ? — nay , no hopes ?

Luis .

Nay more , this Lady's Story touches me so near , that if she be a Gentlewoman , he forfeits my Love in refusing to right her .

Ant.

He that questions that must be ignorant she is my Sister .

Per.

I have no reason to expect Forgiveness , who have been the general Abuser of the whole Company . But if Love can cover Faults , I have great Pretences . First then , [ To Luis . ] I humbly beg your Pardon ; and if you will receive that Nephew you have taken such care to preserve , here Peralta entreats .

Luis .

Truth is , Nephew , this was a little too high driven ; but if you can reconcile your self with the rest , I must forgive one I love . And now I more earnestly view you , I dare conclude you the Son of my Brother .

Gom.

Well , I will never trust Age and Experience more , &c.

Per. to Elvi●a . Your Pardon , Madam , which I have greatest cause to beg , I scarce dare ask : but if you forgive this Sally of Youth , and my Uncle consent , I am for ever yours . —

To Antonio . Sir , this I hope you 'll yield to , and honour me with a permission to call you Brother .

Car. to Antonio . Refuse , Antonio , and you break your vow'd Engagement .

Ant.

I yield to any thing is just , and if you behave your self worthily , shall make no small increase to your Fortune .

Per. to Elvira . Can you once more think me true ?

Elv.

I must think any thing you 'll have me .

Per.

To take off all ●cruple , I openly confess the Portmantue I brought you was mine by mistake , and upon that I grounded all my Pretence . But I shall sufficiently make Amends , by yielding up that , and this a much greater Treasure . Bowing to Violante .

Vit.

Had I design'd a Quarrel , the Interest you have in this Lady would make us Friends . — And thus emboldned I dare call you Father , and my self this Fair one 's Servant .

Gom.

'T is strange that I should not know thee , for by my troth thou hast Gonzalo's Cast , and so forth : and I will think of no Unkindness , since I am thus assured .

Ant.

My Journey to Madrid was well design'd , and I can once more call my self Antonio .

Gom.

You shall all to my House , &c. for I love Weddings , and resolve to laugh at this Adventure .

They talk together . Fab.

Nay , Mistress Clara , I was not altogether so false as you think ; for Fabio the Indian courted her , but Fabio the Spaniard was always constant .

Clar.

No more , my Don of the Netherlands , Clara will not pretend to hold so slippery an Eel , and she that will may take you for better for worse in best Capacities .

Fab.

You have your liberty , they that quarrel for you must strangely love Fighting .

Luis .

Why then all 's agreed , and this little Noise may make a lasting Friendship .

Enter Dormilon . Dor.

I have overheard so much as to know you merry . — What do you think of calling the Getano's in , who are just going by to Saint Hieronimo's ?

Gom.

By all means call them in , &c. I will have one merry day after all , let the rest look to themselves .

Dormilon returns with the Spanish Gipsies . A DANCE . Gom.

Very well , very well . But this loses time : let 's to the Church● and so forth . For fear new Scruples should arise , I 'd rather be Resolv'd then Wise.

FINIS