Chapter II: Part 2

_Anto._ Well then, contrive my absence, I'le go thither, I'm sure to know whether she cheats or no, For if she names _Don Lewis_ 'mongst the rest, I shall believe her. Well, about the Letter. [Exit.

_Jasp._ Are you there with your Beares; _Don Lewis_ say you? Marry now I find 'twas Jealousie of his Wife; And not the matter of Money made him kill him, Whether he was guilty or no; I'le be sure he shan't Be forgot, for I'le before hand to my Aunt, and tell Her all; I hope, she is a Witch; the People say so, a Mighty Artist I am sure she is, for she has done Strange things, and all men fear her, besides I Know she loves me, and will strive all she can to Do me good, and hap what will my Lord will Think me honest; for Night will surely shew his Sister to him, drest in's Ladyes Gown, what though He kill her, the mistake will lye o'th' Night, and not On me, thus I make good the Villain that she call'd Me, in my Revenge on her; and if Nurse fails me Not, I'le have my Lady, and _Pedro_; finely firkt. When this is done, my Lord rewards my care, Let him the danger I'le the profit share. And since things Excellent commended be, 'Tshall be my Aym t'excell in Villany.

_The End of the first Act._

Act the Second.

_Enter _Jasper_ and the Witch._

_Jasp._ This kindness, Aunt, I beg, your Art must do; For I have no way else to save my place.

_Witch._ Why, 'tis impossible; I've no such Art As People think, to call up Spirits to me; Nor know I any thing, but what is told me.

_Jasp._ Now you dissemble, Aunt, for han't you often Rais'd Storms, have rent up Trees, and shook strong Towers? Seeming to threaten Nature with it's end; And at such times have sent strange shaped Spirits, who have restored to owners stolen Goods. These things so many know, it is impossible For you to keep it private; but I find, Rather then trust me with your mighty secrets, Or help me with your Art, you'l see my Ruine.

_Witch._ These things you speak of, people think I do, And so I'de have e'm; for tis the only way I have to Live: The Vulgar People love to be deluded; And things the most unlikely they most dote on; A strange Disease in Cattle, Hogs or Pigs, Or any Accident in Cheese or Butter; Though't be but Natural, or a Sluts fault, Must strait be Witchcraft! Oh, the Witch was here! The Ears or Tail is burn'd, the Churn is burn'd; And this to hurt the Witch, when all the while They're likest Witches that believe such Cures; Could I do all that People think I can, I'de ne're take pains to find out stolen Goods, Or hold intelligence with Thieves to bring e'm, Meerly to get my Bread; no, I would make The Universe pay Tribute to my power, And all the Bug-bear Lords Inquisitors More tremble at my Name then I do now At theirs: Ah, _Jasper_, would I raise Storms when I would, blast Corn, turn Rivers backward Change shapes, mov'd where I pleas'd i'th' Air, And that so fast, as thought it self would Hardly overtake me: What is't I could not do? if all were true The Foolish People think, the Pope himself would Quickly lose Respect, And none be thought infallible but I.

_Jasp._ I'm sure I tremble for your want of power, More then I should to see Hells dreadfull'st shape, For I must flye the Town.

_Witch._ _Jasper_, not so; though I can raise no Devils, Yet I Confederate with Rogues and Juglers, Things that can shape themselves like Elves, And Goblins-- And often do like Spirits haunt great Houses, Most times to steal, but many times for mirth; These I'le soon send for; arise, my _Pincula_.

_Enter a little Devil, and tumbles the Summerset._

_Jasp._ Heav'ns bless me! save me, good Aunt.

_Witch._ From what? You Fool, 'tis but a little Boy, Which I instruct to carry on my Cheats: Come, leave your Fooling, I have bus'ness for you; Uncase your self, and quickly go and find _Ranter_, and _Swash_, _Dive_, _Fob_, _Snap_, _Gilt_, and _Pick-lock_, Those are my Archest Devils; as you go Call upon _Dog'rell_ the Ballad-maker, and say I want him strait, bid them be sure To bring home half a dozen more with them, For I shall need their help, let e'm not fail, For money's to be got.

_Devil._ 'Tis that will make e'm come; I'le haste, forsooth.
[Exit.

_Jasp._ I'm glad it's gone, for surely it was a Devil, What ever you pretend.

_Witch._ Thou'rt a Fool: It was a Boy, I tell thee, and no Devil; Nor am I a sorceress, though I could wish To do thee good I was: But 'tis no matter, Bring thou thy Lord, I'le practice well enough To make him think all true, that I shall shew him.

_Jasp._ You now Revive my Drooping Spirits, Aunt, and Make my hopes grow strong! Ah sweet Revenge, How my soul Dances but with thoughts of it; Assist me, Aunt, to get this mighty Blessing, and I Shall dye your slave.

_Witch._ O rare Boy! How I rejoyce to see this Spirit in thee, For 'tis the vertue of our Family To seek Revenge, not basely swallow wrongs: _Don Sancho De Mensalvo_, thy Grandsire Was for a while Vice-Admiral of Spain, But then disgrac'd turn'd Pyrate and Reveng'd With Fire and Sword on all Mankind, the wrongs He thought the Court had basely plac'd on him; At last he was betray'd and lost his head, Thy Father turn'd Bandetto, what he got I did dispose of for him; but his Fate Betray'd him too to Death by Execution: Since when I by these Arts do strive to live, And thou art forc'd to serve-- That very Lord, who does those Lands Possess should have been thine.

_Jasp._ But will e're long mount to some higher sphere, Or dye in the attempt; this Plot, perhaps, may do, And I thereby obtain some part of my Estate Again; for if the plotted mischiefs shall succeed, I'le tell him whom I am, and my resolves, either To share his Fortunes or Reveal all. Then I will Rise _Don Jasper De Monsalvo_ and Cheek by Jole, Ask how _Antonio_ does. Then don't forget the names.

_Witch._ Not one of them: I know them very well.

_Jasp._ Farewell, Dear Aunt, but don't you seem to know me.

_Witch._ Out you great Fool! What become my Instructer? Be careful of your self, and fear not me. Farewel, boy.

[Exeunt.

_Enter _Antonio_, _Gerardo_, _Cælia_, _Eugenia_, as to a Masque,
and take their seats._

_Ger._ Have you heard, Madam, what they represent?

_Cælia_ My Lord, I'm told they mean to play the Gipsies, And tell our fortunes to us.

_Anto._ I would they could.

_Eugen._ If all Man's life determin'd is before, I would not know my Destiny me-thinks, For good is best, when least it is Expected; And bad fore-seen is doubl'd by our fear Things certain no fore-knowledge can prevent Such knowledge only can bring discontent.

_Ger._ In this with you I perfectly agree.

_Anto._ Yet for all that I wish I could foresee.

_Cælia._ My Lord, what profit by it wou'd you gain?

_Anto._ 'Twould cure doubt to me the deadliest pain.

_Ger._ Doubt is th'effect of fear or Jealousie, Two Passions which to Reason give the Lye For fear torments, but never does assist, And Jealousie is love lost in a Mist. Both Hood-wink truth, then go to blind-mans buff, Cry here, then there, seem to direct enough: But all the while shift place making the mind As it goes out of breath despair to find. And if at last something it stumbles on, Perhaps it calls it false and then 'tis gone. If true, what's gain'd only just time to see A breachless Play a Game at Liberty; That has no other end then this, that men Run to be tyr'd just to set down agen.

_Anto._ This is a truth, and so for ought I know, To the same purpose tends all things we do: Life's a Disease, and yet we seldom say, That Man is sick whom we see laugh and play; And 'tis as well to bid the Bed-rid ride, As to bid Men in doubt be satisfy'd: For 'tis the mind's Disease, and Physick should Be proper to't, or else the Patient's fool'd. And there's no Drug in Nature doubt to Cure But only one, and that is to be sure.

_Cæl._ Yes, Circumstance, my Lord, if well apply'd.

_Anto._ I've known that often fail, when it was try'd But they come--

[Flourish.

_Enter first Gipsie, and sings._

1. Gipsie. _Come, come, away; follow, follow your Prince, I am King of the swarthy Complexions; Follow me that can lead you through Chimneys and Chinks To steal Bacon and Pease; Nay, sometimes with ease To a Feast of the choycest Confections. Come, follow me then, come away, come away_.

_Enter second Gipsie, and sings._

2. Gip. _We know no Rebellion, but obey, but obey, To our King we are just, And true to our trust, Leaving discord to those, that their Princes oppose, When by the Spirit of Treason in Non-sence they pray._

_Enter all the rest, and sing._

Chor. _We know_ &c.

1. Gip. _Come then, and follow, a prize, a prize, a prize._.

2. Gip. _Give the word then, and helloa._

All. _A prize, a prize, a prize._

1. Gip. _Here are Gallants and Ladies have fortunes to tell._

2. Gip. _We'l tell e'm good Fortune if they give us a spell._

1. Gip. _A hand crost with silver the Spirit infuses._

2. Gip. _There's no Prophet lately that mettle refuses._

1. Gip. _Men get Heaven now by Bargain and Sale._

Chor. _Masses, Trentals and Dirges
Are not had for no Charges,
And a Vicar for nothing won't tell you a Tale._

All. _Masses, &c._

1. Gip. _All things are bought and sold._

2. Gip. _Good Fortune goes with Gold._

1. Gip. _Fall on to your Trading then._

Men Gip. _W'are for the Ladies._

Wom. Gip. _And we for the Men._

_1. Gip._ To _Cæl._ Lady, you have lost a Lover, Cross my hand, I'le more discover.

_2. Gip._ To _Anto._ My Lord, I know you baseness scorn, And would be loath to wear a Horn.

_1. Gip._ To _Eug._ Lady, some do speak you fair, That hatred to your welfare bear.

_2. Gip._ To _Ger._ My Lord, you Love a handsom Lady, She Loves you as well it may be.

1. Gip. sings. _Thus we seldom miss the matter,
Things past we can tell, by these Generals well,
And ne're stay to prove the truth of the latter._

All. _Things past, &c._

1. To _Cæl._ You shall Live long and happily, Lady.

2. To _Anto._ My Lord, I can tell you, good Fortunes your Friend.

1. To _Eug._ You shall e're long play with your own Baby.

2. To _Ger._ Your Love my Lord, will have good end.

1. Gip. sings. _Thus we Live merrily, merrily, merrily,
And thus to our Dancing we sing;
Our Lands and our Livings
Lye in others believings,
When to all Men we tell the same thing:
And thus to our Dancing we sing.
Thus we_, &c.

[An Antique of Gipsies, and Exeunt.

_Anto._ By this we see that all the Worlds a Cheat, Where truths and falshoods lye so intermixt, And are so like each other, that 'tis hard To find the difference; who would not think these People A real pack of such as we call Gipsies.

_Ger._ Things perfectly alike are but the same; And these were Gipsies, if we did not know How to consider them the contrary; So in Terrestial things there is not one But takes its Form and Nature from our fancy; Not its own being, and is what we do think it.

_Anto._ But truth is still it self.

_Ger._ No, not at all, as truth appears to us; For oftentimes That is a truth to me that's false to you, So 'twould not be if it was truly true.

_Enter _Pedro_ and a Servant, with a Letter to _Antonio_._

_Serv._ My Lord, _Don John_ salutes you in that Letter.

_Cæl._ How does my Couzen, Friend?

_Serv._ Madam, I fear he's drawing near his end.

_Cæl._ 'Pray Heav'n divert it.

_Anto._ The Letter shews, that Death did guide his hand; It only says, Oh Friend, come now or never.

_Ger._ How did his Sickness take him?

_Serv._ Chacing the Buck too hard; he hot with Labour, Drunk of a cooling Spring too eagerly, And that has given him pains, the Doctors say, Will give him Death immediately.

_Cæl._ Heav'n grant him help.

_Anto._ Return, and tell thy Lord, I'm at thy heels. _Pedro_, bring my Boots, and bid two Horses be made Ready.

_Cæl._ Whom do you take, my Lord?

_Anto._ _Pedro_:--but hold, _Jasper_ is not discharg'd, I'le ee'n take him.

_Cæl._ _Jasper_, my Lord! Pray take not him.

_Anto._ Why not him, there are no Nurses there? [Enter _Ped._ with Boots. Where's _Jasper_ _Pedro_?

_Ped._ He said he wou'd not dine, and went Abroad, yet I suppose he may be now in's Chamber.

_Anto._ Reach my Bootes, who has worn 'em lately? I do believe you get into my Bootes.

_Ped._ I, my Lord.

_Anto._ I, you, my Rogue! Go, see for _Jasper_.
[Strikes _Pedro_ with a Boot'top.

[Exit _Pedro_.

_Cæl._ My Lord! Why do you thus disturb your self?

_Anto._ You see the blow don't maim him, you need Not be concern'd.

_Cælia._ What means my Lord?

_Anto._ As you hate _Jasper_, I hate whom I please.

_Enter _Jasper_._

_Cæl._ His sight strikes terror to me!

_Anto._ _Jasper_, make ready, you must go with me.

[Exit _Jasp_.

_Cæl._ Here on my knees I beg you would not take him: But if you be resolv'd, let me go too.

_Anto._ That cannot be: Don _John's_ a Batchellor, And is not fitted to have Women guests.

_Cæl._ I will dispence with any thing, my Lord, Then let me go, or do not take _Jasper_.

_Anto._ Come, I must break this Childish way of yours, _Jasper_ shall go, and you shall stay at home, And so Farewell; make merry with our Friends.

_Ger._ Do not resolve, my Lord; see how she takes it.

_Anto._ This passion soon will over; farewell, Friend, I shall return to give _Eugenia_ to you.

[Exit _Anto_.

_Ger._ I ne're perceiv'd his will to reign before, Some sudden fancy makes him Obstinate.

_Eug._ So, give her Air, she comes to her self.

_Cæl._ Where is my Lord! What gone! am I deluded? I Saw an Angel lead him back again.

_Ger._ Her fancy is disturb'd, make no answer:

_Cæl._ Why Sister, where's my Lord?

_Eug._ Do not disturb your self, my Brother's well.

_Cæl._ Get me a horse, for I will follow him.

_Enter _Antonio_ Bleeding_.

_Anto._ Fetch me some water there.

_Cæl._ My Dream was true, my Dearest Lord's return'd! What makes you Bleed?

_Anto._ As I was lifting up my Foot to the Stirrop, my Nose Gusht out a Bleeding.

_Eugen._ My Sister dreamt, an Angel led you back, And I believe it now.

_Ger._ Pray take some other with you, I, if you please Will keep you Company.

_Ant._ No, I'm resolv'd to stay, and send him word, I am Took ill my self; my Nose leaves Bleeding.

_Cæl._ I am satisfy'd, my Lord, you do not go, and therefore Will Retire.

[Ex. all but _Anto._ and _Gerar._

_Anto._ Do so, my Dear. Now I must tell my Friend, I dare not stay, Twould look but ill to say a Bleeding Nose Made _Don Antonio_ slight his dying Friend.

_Ger._ If that was all, it would; but yet reflect There are more Prodigies forbid this Journey Then _Cæsar_ had t'avoyd the Senate-House.

_Anto._ Had _Cæsar_ not been slain, those Accidents We now call Prodigies, had been forgot; And so will these when I am safe return'd.

_Ger._ Consider but your Ladies high concern, Her suddain sounding, and recovery, On which she cry'd an Angel brings him back, Your Bleeding and Return speaks the dream't true, The stopping of it too was not the least, All these together force me to believe That you from heav'n these warnings did receive.

_Anto._ Surely, _Gerardo_, we must heav'n offend To think that it these Accidents should send. It is detraction to the Pow'rs above, To think they suffer what they don't approve, For if they did this to divert my ill, They go about, for they might change my will. But mine's more firm; nay, more, should I not go, The threaten'd ill I meet, for ought I know; For if their boads be certain, then I may Meet th' effects whether I go or stay.

_Ger._ Vainly we speak of heav'n, when vainly we By human Wit set Rules to heav'ns decree, The pow'r that made us gave us scope of will, Freely to take the good, or choose the ill: And though it can, it does not change that course, Only perswades to Act what it could force.

_Anto._ This you believe, but you must pardon me, If in this point I don't with you agree; For if to Man such a free-will be given, That damns all Præscience and so baffles heav'n: But I delay whilst Reason bids me go, And Reason 'tis, since it to me is so, Then pray divert my Wife, so farewell, Friend. [Exit.

_Ger._ Farewell: May all my fears to nothing tend; Yet still I fear what should the Reason be, That I shou'd fear, yet nothing fearful see, I am resolv'd to send some Servants out Shall wait him at a distance; In doing all I can, I do the best, I can no more, let heav'n do the rest. [Exit.

_Enter _Don Francisco_ and Nurse._

_Fran._ Well, 'tis so sweet a sin to Wench in danger, That I am like to lose the best part of my Recreation; But prethee Nurse, tell me, what causes this change?

_Nurse._ Now if I would be hang'd, I cannot forbear telling. Faith, my Lord, _Gerardo_'s like to be the Man now, Though I am for your Lordship still, you're my best Friend.

_Fran._ By heav'n I'le be his Death, and hers to boot; Can she slight me for him, he Whore our Kindred! When did he first enjoy her?

_Nurse._ Not so, my Lord, he's to Marry her.

_Fran._ Nay, if't be so; then I'm Reveng'd already, For's joyning with _Antonio_ 'gainst our house, He's Antidated Cuckold, and by me! O rare Revenge! There's for thy News, Nurse. [Gives money to her. Were all my Enemies but serv'd the same; At a more full Revenge I'de never aim.

_Nurse._ Me-thinks you should not be so merry for losing my Lady; 'faith, had I known it, you should not have come Into the place you wot'on, by my means.

_Fran._ Nay, be not angry, Nurse, I find her drift. She loves our family, and studies to Revenge it. To make him Cuckold; how it pleases me! Poyson, nor Poniards is not half so well, Go, tell her; Nurse I'm glad she takes this way: I glory in her love! by Heaven I do, I'le find Sebastian out, and laugh with him, Till I e'en split my sides.

_Nurse._ Sir, you'le tell no body I hope.

_Fran._ No, none but him: To say as he goes by, there goes my Cuckold; And then to laugh, go Nurse, and tell her I'le be sure to meet-- [Exit.

_Nurse._ Another double Pistoll for my _Jasper_! I'le have him one whole night for this. For to speak truth, I find the Rogue does not love me: Heavens! What a bad world is this, An Old Woman, though never so willing, Can scarce get a friend for ready money: When such as _Eugenia_ can make the Gold fly about; But time will come she must be fain to turn tail, And pay for one as I do, or go without. But it pleases me, my Lady says, he shall be my husband, Then I shall need give money no longer: for faith if he Be negligent, I'le ring him a Peal to quicken him to his duty. Thus marry'd once, I'le doe like other wives That make their husbands drudge for quiet lives.

_The End of the Second Act._

Act the Third.

_Enter _Don Gerardo_ with a Book in his Hand._

Song.

1.

_Some Happy Soul come down and tell What Joys are those with you do dwell? If it be Happiness like ours below, Which from our want of ills does only flow, Then 'tis plain that mighty theam Of Immortality is but a Dream_.

2.

_'Tis Love, 'tis Love, for nothing can Give real Happiness to Man, But Joys like those that Lovers Souls enjoy, which here on Earth there's nothing can destroy; Ay, ay, 'tis Love only can be The Happy Souls endless felicity._

_Ger._ What a dull, heavy load hangs on my soul! Weighing me down to Earth, as if 'twould say 'Twas weary of its Burthen, and resolv'd To shake it off, and mix with its first matter; What is the thing, call'd Death, we mortals shun? Is't some real, or is't a fancy only? Like that imaginary point in Mathematicks; Not to be found only in definition: It is no more: Death, like your Childrens Bug-bears, Is fear'd by all, yet has no other Being Then what weak fancy gives it; 'tis a Line, But yet imaginary, drawn betwixt Time and that dreadful thing Eternity; I, that's the thing, 'tis fear'd; for now I find it: Eternity which puzzles all the World, To name the inhabitants that People it: Eternity, whose undiscover'd Countrey We Fools divide, before we come to see it; Making one part contain all happiness, The other misery, then unseen fight for't. Losing our certains for uncertainties; All Sects pretending to a Right of choyce; Yet none go willingly to take their part, For they all doubt what they pretend to know, And fear to mount, lest they should fall below: Be't as it will; my Actions shall be just, And for my future State I Heav'n will trust. _Enter a Servant._ Return'd already; what can be the cause?

_Serv._ Sir, _Don Antonio_ likewise is return'd.

_Ger._ What reason had he for it, dost thou know?

_Ser._ My Lord, I do not; for we by your appointment Having took Horse, did with our greatest speed Pursue the Road should lead us to _Don John_'s; When near a Thicket stands some two Miles off, I spy'd _Antonio_ lying on the ground, And _Jasper_ walking of the Horses by him, Fearing his seeing us, we took the Thicket, Where shelter'd from their Eyes, I left my Fellows. But I approach'd as near as possible, Hoping I did you Service, if I could By their Discourse gather their cause of stay.

_Ger._ 'Twas like thy self, both diligent and prudent.

_Serv._ But all my care did signifie but little, The Wind blew fresh, and rustling in the Wood, Wholly destroy'd their Voyces, so that few words Of what they said I heard; and those I did, Came so divided they had no connexion.

_Ger._ What sort of Actions did you then perceive?

_Serv._ My Lord, I saw _Antonio_ much disturb'd; Sometimes he'd rise and walk a turn or two With eager pace, then stop as suddenly, Then stamp and tear his hair; then loudly cry. She's dead, she's dead! Oh, _Cælia_, Oh, _Antonio_! Then lye him down again, and rest a space: Sometimes call _Jasper_ to him, talk a while, And soon again rise in another Passion; Seldom I heard a word, except a Curse! Or now and then a Name; as _Lewis_, _Cælia_, _Pedro_, _Francisco_, _Flora_; nay, my Lord, Sometimes I heard your Name, and then _Eugenia's_; Then suddenly holding his hands to Heav'n, He'd down again, and there a while would role.

_Ger._ These Actions sure did seem a perfect madness.

_Serv._ It seem'd indeed a madness methodiz'd, Like theirs who are Transported far with Passion.

_Ger._ But how perceiv'd you _Jasper_ bear himself?

_Serv._ Quite in another manner, but as strange! For when his Lord look'd down, his looks would be As full of mirth, ready to burst in Laughter; That I perceiv'd he scarce contain'd himself: But if his Lord did look about to speak, Then was his Face demure, with hand on Breast, Turning his Eyes to Heav'n, and groaning sighs. As you have seen, my Lord, a Canting Preacher Aiming to cheat his Audience, wanting matter, Sigh to seem Holy, till he thought on something. So at that distance seem'd his Actions to me; But when his back was turn'd, the Rascal would Make Mouths, and point with signs of greatest scorn.

_Ger._ There is some Fatal Villany in this; Some Mystery beyond my Fathoming: But how long staid they thus?

_Serv._ About two hours, when mounting both their Horses, I took mine, and un-espy'd did dogg e'm to the City, And where they Hous'd I know not; for they enter'd Remote from Home, and I i'th' streets soon lost e'm.

_Ger._ Do both your Fellows know this?

_Serv._ No, my Lord, I did not think it would become my Duty To tell them any thing but what they saw.

_Ger._ I never knew thee yet mistake thy trust; Thy secrecy was well: Preserve it still, For I must use it further, therefore go, And Charge your Pistols, we must walk a Round About _Antonio_'s House to watch their motion; For there the Scene must lye of this design; If there be mischief in't, thy courage now (If theirs occasion) must again be try'd. And well Rewarded too.

_Serv._ 'Tis so, my Lord, Above all other wayes in that you trust it. But I'le be gone, and Execute your Orders. [Exit.

_Ger._ A Faithful Servant is the best of Friends, Since he is nearest alwayes to assist us; But stay, I cannot guess from all I've heard, The cause that should disturb _Antonio_; Except 'tis Jealousie: Yet how can that be? If _Cælia's_ vitious there's no vertuous Women. But now I think how much he rail'd at Marriage, And more our Arguments concerning doubt, These things perswade he's Jealous! But of whom? The more I think, the more I am confounded! How Clouded Man Doubts first, and from one doubt doth soon proceed A thousand more in solving of the first; Like Nighted Travellers we lose our way; Then every _Ignis Fatuus_ makes us stray. By the false Lights of Reason led about, Till we arrive where we at first set out: "Nor shall we e're Truths perfect High-way see, Till dawns the Day-break of Eternity." [Exit.

_Enter _Eugenia_._

_Eug._ I am amaz'd the Nurse should stay so long; My Anger makes each minute seem an hour: That Woman is a thing made up of mischief; Some Fatal Devil sure did guide the Choyce My Mother made, in choosing her our Nurse. She's Fool to th' height: And yet hath wit enough To tread all Labyrinths of Treachery; But that's no wonder: For who's Treacherous That wants not Eyes to see it's ugly Form? For now I fear, and I believe not vainly, That Villain, _Jasper_, knows all my concerns, Or what could prompt him to that Impudence He did express in his address today.

_Enter Nurse._

Thou fatal Hagg, thou Mother of all mischief, What Devil taught thy perjur'd Tongue the way To tell the shame which thou didst first occasion?

_Nurse._ Pray what ayls you, Madam, are you mad?

_Eug._ I wish I was, as I have cause enough, For then I should not know the shame attends me, In being Table-talk for every Rascal, As thou (Hell thank thee for it) now hast made me.

_Nurse._ I made you Table-talk! There's no such thing; I've been too faithful to you, that I have; Losing my sleep full oft to watch your pleasure. And is this all I get? It is no matter, I Shall be even with you.

_Eug._ Threaten on (for thou hast Acted all thy threats, Imp) In letting _Jasper_ know my shame and folly.

_Nurse._ _Jasper_ knows nothing, that he does not, from me, And I will ask him; fore your face, I will, If I e're said _Francisco_ lay with you.

_Eug._ 'Tis plain, thy guilt transported thee to madness, Else thou wouldst never make thy Tongue a Herauld So loud, for to proclaim to all the House The Action you'd perswade me still is secret.

_Nurse._ If you talk lowd your self, why may not I? But I'le bring _Jasper_ to you shall deny all.

_Eug._ What mischief upon mischief she designs? Dost think, like thine, my Modesty is gone? To have this argu'd out before my face And such a Villaine by?--

_Nurse._ A Villain, say you? No Villain neither, I wou'd have you know; No more then is _Francisco_: pick that bone, Or if you will, I'le bid _Gerardo_ do it. Dee' think to rail at me? Is that my thanks?

_Eug._ My feares I see will force me to dissemble; Nurse, I but try'd thy patience; I believe Thou would'st not tell that secret for the world, No, tho' it were to _Jasper_.

_Nurse._ _Jasper's_ an honest fellow, and no Villain; And did he know a secret, he could keep it.

_Eug._ But have you told it then?

_Nurse._ No matter what I've done, I will not tell you, Because you vext and rated at me so.

_Eug._ Well, Nurse, I did believe you lov'd me better. [Weeps. And wou'd trust me with any thing you did, But I perceive your kindness all for _Jasper_.

_Nurse._ I love _Jasper_ well, and love you too, And you shall have no wrong I warrant you.

_Eug._ The thing is plain, I need not ask no further. But where's the remedy? Nurse, prethee tell me, What did _Francisco_ say unto my message?

_Nurse._ I, there's a bus'ness now worth asking for. He sayes, he's glad you'l condescend to meet; Nay, he's a glad man, I'le tell you that, i' faith, He bid me say, you were a gallant Girle, So to Revenge his quarrel on _Gerardo_.

_Eug._ _Gerardo_, said you! O thy mouth's a Sieve! There's not a secret thou canst keep a moment; Did I not charge thee not to name _Gerardo_, Till I should speak of it myself to him? Nay, 'tis the greatest motive makes me meet him, For to prevent the mischiefs else may follow; Well, I am curst for sin, and thou art made The cause o' th' sin, and curse that does attend it.

_Nur._ What, are you got to railing again for nothing? Pray who has most discretion to tell a bus'ness, You, or I? But you, forsooth, are grown so proud of late Because you hope to Marry _Don Gerardo_; That there's no speaking to you: Marry gip. 'Faith I shall spoil your Market. [Exit.

_Eug._ Do thy worst (for I am resolv'd to suffer once for all) Death would be better then this Slavery, And that's the worst can happen Should she tell my Brother, or _Gerardo_, my whole story; That's dying once, but I by fear thus fool'd, Do hourly dye, since still I Death behold. [Exit.

_Enter _Jasper_ and _Antonio_._

_Jasp._ My Lord, I'm confident this is the House, Wherein the Woman Lives I told you of.

_Anto._ Knock then; and if she comes, do you speak to her, I'le stand aloof a while, and hear you talk.

[Jasper _knocks_.

_Enter Witch with a block Rod, which she turns over her Head, whilst
_Jasper_ makes a private sign of his Lord's being there._

_Jasp._ Hail, Reverend Mother; I suppose you are That famous Artist who Commands this House, Which if you be, with confidence I beg, You would resolve some Questions I should ask; Which if you please to do, my gratitude Shall be proportion'd to the kindness done.

_Witch._ What prating Fellow's here? Your Lord _Antonio_ Need not to doubt my Art, or if he did, He might have sent some wiser Man to try me. Come, come, my Lord, I am no Cheating Chymist, that requires A Faith in Fools to make his work successful. No, no, my Power is boundless, I can search The secrets of your Soul, and when I've done Solve all the doubts that there possess your mind; That Women should be Women, is no wonder.

_Anto._ But that Women should turn Devils, is.

_Witch._ No, no, my Lord, I am no Devil neither.

_Anto._ Mother! I meant not you, when I said so.

_Witch._ Son, Son, excuse it not, you have no cause To love us Women much, and I'm not angry At what you said, though I know what you meant.

_Ant._ Then, Mother, by these Powers you practice by, I do Conjure you, shew me all the truth Of what you know concerns my coming hither.

_Witch._ Come, enter in, my Lord, and nothing fear; There's not a doubt of yours but shall be clear. I've sent a Spirit out, who will e're long, Bring all the Names of those have done you wrong.

[Ex. and return.

_Enter _Antonio_, _Jasper_, and Witch, as in the House; in the
Scenes a Chair, by which _Jasper_ stands, and Witch goes round._

_Witch._ Sit in this Chair, my Lord, whilst I do draw A Sacred Line, which shall the Spirits aw. About, about, I tread a Round, Where I tread is Sacred Ground. Thus and thus the Air I charm, To keep my Circle free from harm; Thus I sprinkle Water pure, And by it all the Charm secure; The Spirits that fiery are dare not come near us, Earth, Air, and Water do make e'm to fear us. Then boldly sit, boldly see, boldly despise What Spirits soever do happen to rise.

_Witch sings._
_Rise, arise, arise, rise and come away,
My little pretty Spirit _Puncula_:
What, not appear at thy Mistresses call,
I'le surely torment thee; thou shalt not suck at all.
Arise then, I say--_

[Spirit within sings.
Spir. _I come, I come away,
The Wind it blows hard, and forces me astray._

_Witch._ Let's wait a little, he'l appear, my Lord.

_Anto._ Fear seizes me so fast, that all my Spirits Retire, and leave an Ague in my Joynts.

_Enter a Spirit._

_Witch._ Come, have you done What I gave you in charge, If you have, I command you to tell it at large.

Spirit sings.
_As you bid, I did go to the Caverns below
Where the Spirits Inhabit that Govern the Wind.
And though in their motions they be,
And see
Far, far quicker than we,
Yet no Intelligence there I could find.
From thence, like Lightning, I shot to the Pole,
Where at a hole
I glided to the Region of the Air:
But the Spirits above
Do Mankind so love,
That they drove me from them with despair.
From thence, in a moment, to _Ætna_ I came,
Where the Spirits of fire that Inhabit that flame:
Told me, all that I sought for they knew;
Though to Spirits of Earth,
As I am by Birth;
They'd not tell it; yet hither they flew.
And hereabouts they stay, till you pray,
And attone them with Offerings to tell your desire;
For these from of Old
Have been Lovers of Gold,
The Mettles being Govern'd by Spirits of fire_.
[Exit.

_Witch._ It's necessary, Son, you throw them something, For o're these Spirits I have no Command.

_Anto._ Oh, any thing; take this and throw it them; But do release me of the fear I'm in, And quickly solve my doubts, take all I have.

_Witch._ There is Gold, there is Gold to you Spirits of fire; He does willingly offer what you do desire.

_Enter first Spirit, second Spirit Ascends. After some flashes
of fire they sing._

1. Spir. _What Spirit did _Lewis_ attend?_

2. Spir. _It was I._

1. Spir. _Declare to that Lord what you know._

2. Spir. _I need not, the cause he did dye
Was that truth to him known long ago._

Chor. _He's dead, he's dead, he's dead, and now
For hot desires,
In endless fires
Must Live, must now forever Live with us below._

Chor. _He's dead, he's dead, &c._

_Anto._ Horrid and wonderful.

1. Spir. _Who all _Cælia's_ Crimes does know?_

2. Spir. _It is I, but must not shew
All her ill,
For I will_

[Third Spirit Ascends.

_Fit her better e're she go
To her Paramour below._

3. Spir. _But I that _Francisco_ attend,
Can declare,
That he as a Friend
To _Don Lewis_ doth share
I'th' stolen Embraces of _Cælia's_ sweet Arms;
They kiss and lye down,
Then _Lewis_ bemoan,
Thus with thoughts of Revenge they double Loves charms._

Chor. _They kiss and lye, &c._

_Anto._ Thus I have warm'd a Viper in my bosom, That wanted only heat enough to sting me, And give me Death it self.

1. Spir. _After him can _Pedro_ stay til't be day;
Thus they sport the Night away,
_Flora_ watching whilst they do
Laugh at you,
Saying, where's the Cuckold now?_

1. Spir. _They sport._

2. Spir. _They laugh._

3. Spir. _They kiss and play,
Till your return, doth make e'm mourn,
And spoils their Holy~day._

Chor. _Thus they will do untill they dye,
When we in Hell, shall think it well
To have their pleasant Company._

[They Descend.

_Anto._ And that shall be this Night; make ready then Fires that may fit so brave a pack of Letchers; If you delight in Offerings; and for Gold Can but increase their Torments, I will sell All my Estate to turn it into that, Daily to add more fewel to their flames. Let Fools that spend their Wealth on Priests for Prayers, Be Cheated still, I'le take a surer way, Torments for Souls are penny-worths I'le buy, And there is Reason in it; for 'tis likely Hell may take Bribes, when surely Heav'n won't. Oh Excellent project! Is't not a good one, _Jasper_? By Hell it self, this Night Hell hath e'm all.

_Witch._ Your Lordship's much disturb'd, I by my Art Will cause the Air to give a Melody, So to compose your Spirits to themselves.

[She waves her stick. Musick and an Antick Dance of Devils
handing the Purse (_Antonio_ threw) to one another, toward the
Close of which a noise without makes both Musick and Dance stop:
But beginning again, a noise within makes e'm flye. The Witch
trembles.

_Within._ Break op'e the doors, nay, sure enough they're here.

_Anto._ By Heav'n some Cheat, for these can be no Devils. I'le follow e'm, and see-- [Draws his Sword.

_Jasp._ It is some trick to draw you from the Circle.
[_Jasp._ holds him.

_Anto._ Be what it will, Death cannot make me worse; Unhand me then, or I will sheath this in you. [Exit.

_Witch._ O, we're undone, the Officers will enter, [Noise continues. And my Lord will see the holes they creep into, And so discover them, then we shall all be hang'd. I'le tell my Lord the truth of all the Cheat, And that way save my Life.

_Jasp._ What's that? No stratagem to help it? Have you no hole near us, Aunt?

_Witch._ Yes, here is one, but should we go into't, The other taken once, will soon betray us.

_Jasp._ I'le hazzard that, rather then certain Death. And therefore to save one, I'le hide you there. [Kills her.

_Witch._ O thou ungrateful Dog, dost kill me for my Love?

_Jasp._ No muttering, Aunt, dye quietly, and lye as Quietly; 'tis the greatest kindness you can Do me; So, now a ready lye clears all I hope. [Runs her through often, then throws her into the hole, she shun'd him, then lyes down and trembles.

_Enter _Antonio_._

_Anto._ The Officers entring, they all vanish'd.

_Jasp._ The last is well.

_Anto._ Where's the Witch? What makes you tremble so?

_Jasp._ O, do not take me too, good Devil, do not.

_Anto._ What ayls the Fellow? _Jasper_, don't you know me?

_Jasp._ Alas, is't you, my Lord?

_Anto._ Ay, where's the Witch?

_Jasp._ She got upon a fiery Dragons back, And mounted like a Rocket through the Air, Leaving me half distracted.

_Anto._ 'Tis strange and wonderful.

[Enter Captain and Watch.

_1. Watch._ Here's two of them.

_Capt._ My Lord _Antonio_! 'Tis strange to meet you thus In a suspitious House so late in the Evening.

_Anto._ Riding by the River side to take the Air, My Horse threw me, which made me see For some convenient House to rest a while, And met with this, wherein I have slept this hour, And I believe had done so longer yet, Had not your noise awak'd me.

_Capt._ My Lord, I've no Commission to enquire, Into Persons bus'ness of your eminent Rank; It is for other Men that I search now, Some half a score the most notorious Rogues About the Town were seen to enter here. Saw you none such, my Lord?

_Anto._ No, on my Honour; For since I enter'd here, no human shape Was seen by me, but one Old wither'd Woman; And where she's gone, I know not.

_Capt._ My Lord, that Woman is the greatest Cheat About the Town; the simple think her a Witch; But I can witness for her she is none; My Lord, you'l pardon me, if I search for her.

_Anto._ With all my heart: Pray find her if you can; 'Twas my misfortune doubled to light here.

_Capt._ It might have prov'd so: Search the House. [Exit Watch. I'le tell your Lordship what I know of her. Walking my Round one Night, who should I meet, But (as I thought) two Devils, by their shapes; An Old one, and a Young one, so they seem'd: At first the sight amaz'd me, but at last My Reason telling me, if they were Spirits, The mischief they intended they might do, Though I should run away: I bid my Guard Stand, whilst my self advanc'd near these shapes, Which as I did, the little Devil fled, th' other seem'd To turn it's Eyes to fire, and glare upon me; I still advanc'd, Arm'd with my former thoughts, And as I nearer came, the fire grew duller, Yet still it stood, for truly it could not run, Proving, when I laid hold on't, this Old Woman, Cas'd in a Leopard's skin; the fiery Eyes Prov'd but two Lobster-shells: So she confessing, That for a Living she did use these Cheats, Helping poor People to their stolen Goods, In Devils shapes to countenance the Trade. And that the other was a little Boy, Train'd up as her Familiar, whom she producing, I only threaten'd them, and let them go.

_Anto._ A subtle Cheat it was, and very likely, And you deserv'd Reward that did detect it.

_Jasp._ A Halter it should be, were I to give it.
[Aside.

_Enter the Watch with one of the Devils Remarkable Habits,
and a Viol._

_1. Watch._ We've search'd sufficiently, but all we find Is a poor Devils skin, and a base Viol.

_Capt._ I, this is like the other, I'm glad 'twas found, 'Twill prove the story true I told your Lordship.

_Anto._ It does, to my amazement.

_Capt._ I'm glad it was my hap to meet you here, Your Lordship might have got some mischief else.

_Anto._ I might indeed, and I'm beholding to you: And, Captain, take my word, I'le speak your worth To the Vice-Roy, who is my Kinsman, And will take care for to advance your merit.

_Capt._ In that you'l bind my Service: Yet, my Lord, Shall I not wait your Lordship to your House?

_Anto._ No, 'twill be wonder'd at, besides, I've Horses here.

_Capt._ Then Health and a good Night attend your Lordship.

_Anto._ I thank you. Captain; here, Watch, there's some- Thing for you.

_1. Watch._ Bless your Noble Lordship.

[Ex. Capt. and Watch.

_Anto._ _Jasper_! Did you hear this?

_Jasp._ Ay, my good Lord, and wonder at it too; But I do still believe she is a Witch, and only Did pretend such things to the Captain, To save a Burning from th' Inquisition.

_Anto._ Fetch our Horses. [Exit _Jasper_. I do observe this Rogue Strangely to be amaz'd, what er'es the matter; I do believe that this was all some Cheat. Yet how could that be too, who could Name _Lewis_. But I am mad to be deluded thus! For now I think on't better; in my Passion I hinted _Lewis_ as a proof for all; And then this Rogue stood by--Ay, there it is-- He's a Confederate, and contriv'd all this, To be Reveng'd, but I'le dissemble yet, And trace his mischiefs further, then I'le kill him, And stop his mouth from publishing my folly: Had not this Accident so strangely happen'd, What mischief had I done before the Morning: I'le put him to his Tryal in the Garden; Which if he fail in, there shall end his Life, And he'l deserve it too, when mischiefs tend To such a height, they must in mischief end. He that contriv'd so many to destroy, Will scarce be punish'd if he barely dye, Therefore his Villany shall further swell, When'ts at the height I'le Lanch his Soul to hell. [Exit.

_Enter _Francisco_ and _Sebastian_._

_Sebast._ Couzen, believe me, I am loath to go. And I could likewise wish that you were so. Oft have I fear'd the danger when I went, Yet dreaded more the sin then punishment. For I consider'd, should I then be slain, That Death would but begin an endless pain; Then pardon me, though I could well obey All Friendships Laws, I dare not do't this way.

_Fran._ Sure Couzen, you are sick, or lately have Had melancholy thoughts about a Grave: Is this _Sebastian_, he, whose ready hand Was quick to Act all Friendship did Command? He, who no sooner heard _Francisco_ say, A Danger's there, but made that strait his way, And now he's turn'd my Ghostly Father sure.

_Sebast._ I would, so I might make a Ghostly Cure. _Francisco_, thou art sick, and so am I; Sick at our Souls, and shou'd we chance to dye E're our Disease was Cur'd, 'tis ten to one, We should in an Eternal Feaver groan.

_Fran._ Come, prethee say no more, 'tis ominous, I wonder much what 'tis shou'd make thee thus. Come, you must go this Night: I'le tell you why, 'Twill be the last, for she's to Marry, To Marry _Don Gerardo_! O 'tis rare, I am Reveng'd to th' purpose.

_Sebast._ Sure you are Turn'd Coward, or you ne're wou'd glory in Revenge so base, this doubles all your sin. _Gerardo_'s brave, and sure all Honour bleeds, When such are Wounded by Ignoble deeds. It is the Curse of Man, that he must be Subject to shame by Womens Levity; But hold, I wrong _Eugenia_, if I blame Her, and not you alone, for all her shame. You Rob'd her of her Chastity by force, Though fear of shame still kept her from Remorse.

_Fran._ Pish! Force! That was her policy to you, She did no more then what all Women do, Seem to resist what they do most desire, To raise the flame, yet seem to cool the fire; Believe this Truth, _Sebastian_, Women can Resist it, and perform it more then Man.

_Sebast._ Thus like the Devils we at first betray Their Innocence, then blame on them we lay; As if their guilt cou'd have another cause Then that which it from our Temptation draws.

_Fran._ Let it be so, I'le not dispute it now; It grows too near the time that I should go, And though my Actions do so much offend, I will not doubt to find another Friend.

_Sebast._ Do you so little prize _Eugenia's_ Fame, That you can suffer more to know her shame?

_Fran._ _Sebastian_, you mistake, I do not go This Night on the same terms I us'd to do. No, 'tis to take my leave, for she does vow In spight of fear she is turn'd vertuous now.

_Sebast._ Nay, then I'le go my self, happen what will, For it is only dang'rous to do ill; My Company her Vertue may protect, And I should sin, if that I did neglect.

_Fran._ That shall not need, for I'm resolv'd to speak Nothing that may her Resolution break.

_Sebast._ Go boldly then, for in a cause so good He's more then Coward fears to shed his Blood; And though I think _Antonio_ would be glad That he our Lives at such advantage had; Yet I this Night durst boldly meet him there, Since in my Breast such Innocence I wear; By this security I plainly feel 'Tis guilt that wounds us deeper far then steel.

[Exeunt.

_Enter _Cælia_ and _Eugenia_._

_Cæl._ Blame not my Husband, Sister, 'twas my fault, I strove 'gainst Reason to oppose his Will. Had I forborn my importunity, 'Tis ten to one he had not been so wilful; Husband's prerogatives are absolute, Their wills we must obey, and not dispute.

_Eug._ I beg his Pardon, if I think amiss, But I believe there's some design in this; His Eyes shew'd more of Anger then could be A bare concern for's Friend's Infirmity.

_Cæl._ I will no censure on his Actions lay, My Duty is for their success to pray.

_Enter _Don Gerardo_._

_Ger._ Your Servant, Ladies, where is _Don Antonio_?

_Cæl._ Why, at _Don Johns_, my Lord, do not you know it?

_Ger._ Then he is not come back, as I had thought.

_Cæl._ My Lord, why thought you so?

_Ger._ Madam, I did not know but that he might, Since 'tis not five hours bus'ness to Ride thither, And to return again; but, Madam, pray How came the Lord _Francisco_ to be here? I think he does not use it.

_Eug._ _Francisco_! O my fears!

_Cæl._ No sure, my Lord, he ne're came within these doors Since my good Father dy'd.

_Ger._ Sure I'm mistaken, Madam, if I did not Meet him just now as he came forth this Room: And more, he shak'd his head in Anger at me.

_Cæl._ I'm sure, my Lord, you're mistaken much, For you're the first that enter'd here but us.

_Ger._ It may be I'm mistaken.

_Cæl._ Yes, sure, my Lord, you are.

_Ger._ Madam, if your Commands [To _Eugenia_. Extend to any thing within my pow'r, pray name it, I shall be proud to serve you; else I'm gone, For I have certain bus'ness does require it.

_Eug._ The greatest Service you can do to me, Is to be careful of your self, my Lord.

_Ger._ This kindness doth oblige me, pardon my haste, Good Night, and Rest unto your Ladyships. [Exit.

_Cæl._ Good Night, my Lord; _Flora_ is so possest her Dream is true, She dare not venture in that Room again.

_Eug._ She is not such a Fool, sure.

_Cæl._ Well, Sister, I am not well, and will to Bed; The Nurse will wait on you, I'le send her to you. Come, _Flora_, go with me.

[Ex. _Cæl._ and _Flora_.

_Eug._ Madam, good Rest unto you. This I can wish to her, whilst I must want it: _Gerardo_ sure has some Intelligence Of _Don Francisco_'s coming to me; Or else why Nam'd he him, for well he knows He never us'd to make a Visit here: Well, if he does, I cannot help it now. The time draws nigh, That I must meet _Francisco_! Oh, that word Gives heaviness a new unto my Soul, And makes my thoughts run backwards, The Accidents oth' day seems Ominous To all the House, but most of all to me, My guilty Breast feels most of misery. This time will quickly over, then I shall See what they tend to, or not see at all. "There's comfort yet, that miseries at height Lose their worst property, which is to fright." [Exit.

_The End of the Third Act._

Act the Fourth.

_Cælia_ on a Couch, _Flora_ by her.

_Cæl._ _Flora_, I cannot sleep, for all my thoughts Infected with my griefs, flye up and down, Collecting only things to keep me waking.

_Flo._ I'le not stir from you, Madam, all this Night.

_Cæl._ _Flora_, thy diligence deserves Reward, And I'le not long be backward for to thank thee. But prethee sing that Song I love so well, That harmony, perhaps, will Charm my cares, And give my senses Rest.

The Song.

1.

Flor. sings.
Ah, _Choridon_, in vain you boast,
You still do _Cloris_ Love;
For better 'tis your heart were lost,
Then thus suspitious prove:
You then would kill me by disdain,
But dying thus you blot my Name._
_For all will say
_Cloris_ was false, and went astray;
_Cloris_ was false, and did deserve her shame.

2.

For happy shepherd, well you know,
Your Fame does mine excell;
All Gen'rous _Choridons_ do know,
But none my Tale can tell:
_Cloris_, though true, must lose that Name,
But _Choridon_ will keep his Fame;
For all will say_
_Cloris_ was false, and went astray,
_Cloris_ was false, and did deserve her shame.

3.