Chapter VII: Act IV

SCENE I--_A Chamber_ in Lady Allworth's _House_.

Lovell _and_ Allworth _discovered_.

_Lov._ 'Tis well. I now discharge you From farther service. Mind your own affairs; I hope they will prove successful.

_Allw._ What is blest With your good wish, my lord, cannot but prosper. Let after-times report, and to your honour, How much I stand engag'd; for I want language To speak my debt: yet if a tear or two Of joy, for your much goodness, can supply My tongue's defects, I could----

_Lov._ Nay, do not melt: This ceremonial of thanks to me's superfluous.

_Sir G._ [_Within._] Is my lord stirring?

_Lov._ 'Tis he! Oh, here's your letter; let him in.

_Enter_ Sir Giles, Greedy, _and_ Marall.

_Sir G._ A good day to my lord.

_Lov._ You are an early riser, Sir Giles.

_Sir G._ And reason, to attend to your lordship.

_Lov._ And you too, Mr. Greedy, up so soon?

_Greedy._ In troth, my lord, after the sun is up I cannot sleep; for I have a foolish stomach, That croaks for breakfast. With your lordship's favour, I have a serious question to demand Of my worthy friend, Sir Giles.

_Lov._ Pray you, use your pleasure.

_Greedy._ How far, Sir Giles, and 'pray you, answer me Upon your credit, hold you it to be, From your manor-house, to this of my Lady Allworth's?

_Sir G._ Why, some four miles.

_Greedy._ How! four miles, good Sir Giles? Upon your reputation think better; For four miles riding Could not have rais'd so huge an appetite As I feel gnawing on me.

_Mar._ Whether you ride Or go a-foot, you are that way still provided, And it please your worship.

_Sir G._ How now, sirrah! prating Before my lord! no difference? go to my nephew, See all his debts discharged, and help his worship To fit on his rich suit.

_Mar._ I may fit you too. [_Exit_ Marall.

_Lov._ I have writ this morning A few lines to my mistress, your fair daughter.

_Sir G._ Twill fire her, for she's wholly yours already. Sweet Mr. Allworth, take my ring; 'twill carry To her presence, I warrant you; and there plead For my good lord, if you shall find occasion. That done, pray ride to Nottingham; get a license, Still, by this token. I'll have it despatch'd, And suddenly, my lord: that I may say, My honourable, nay, right honourable daughter.

_Greedy._ Take my advice, young gentleman; get your breakfast. 'Tis unwholesome to ride fasting. I'll eat with you; And that abundantly.

_Sir G._ Some fury's in that gut: Hungry again? Did you not devour this morning A shield of brawn, and a barrel of Colchester oysters?

_Greedy._ Why, that was, sir, only to scour my stomach, A kind of preparative. I am no camelion, to feed on air; but love To see the board well spread, Groaning under the heavy burden of the beast That cheweth the cud, and the fowl That cleaveth the air. Come, young gentleman, I will not have you feed alone, while I am here.

_Lov._ Haste your return.

_Allw._ I will not fail, my lord.

_Greedy._ Nor I, to line My Christmas coffer.

[_Exeunt_ Greedy _and_ Allworth.

_Sir G._ To my wish, we're private, I come not to make offer with my daughter A certain portion; that were poor and trivial: In one word, I pronounce all that is mine, In lands, or leases, ready coin, or goods, With her, my lord, comes to you; nor shall you have One motive to induce you to believe I live too long, since every year I'll add Something unto the heap, which shall be yours too.

_Lov._ You are a right kind father.

_Sir G._ You shall have reason To think me such. How do you like this seat? It is well wooded, and well water'd, the acres Fertile and rich; would it not serve for change, To entertain your friends in a summer's progress? What thinks my noble lord?

_Lov._ 'Tis a wholesome air, And well built; and she, that's mistress of it, Worthy the large revenue.

_Sir G._ She the mistress? It may be so for a time; but let my lord Say only, that he but like it, and would have it, I say, ere long 'tis his.

_Lov._ Impossible!

_Sir G._ You do conclude too fast, not knowing me, Nor the engines that I work by. 'Tis not alone The lady Allworth's lands; for those, once Wellborn's (As by her dotage on him I know they will be,) Shall soon be mine. But point out any man's In all the shire, and say they lie convenient, And useful for your lordship, and once more I say aloud, they are yours.

_Lov._ I dare not own What's by unjust and cruel means extorted. My fame and credit are more dear to me, Than to expose 'em to be censur'd by The public voice.

_Sir G._ You run, my lord, no hazard; Your reputation, shall stand as fair In all good men's opinions, as now: Nor can my actions, though condemned for ill, Cast any foul aspersion upon yours. For though I do contemn report myself, As a mere sound; I still will be so tender Of what concerns you in all points of honour, That the immaculate whiteness of your fame, Nor your unquestioned integrity, Shall e'er be sullied with one taint or spot; All my ambition is to have my daughter Right honourable, which my lord can make her: And might I live to dance upon my knee A young Lord Lovell, born by her unto you, I write _nil ultra_ to my proudest hopes.

_Lov._ Are you not frightened with the imprecations And curses of whole families, made wretched By such practices?

_Sir G._ Yes, as rocks are, When foamy billows split themselves against Their flinty ribs; or as the moon is mov'd, When wolves, with hunger pin'd, howl at her brightness. I am of a solid temper, and like these Steer on a constant course: with mine own sword, If called into the field, I can make that right, Which fearful enemies murmur'd at as wrong. Nay, when my ears are pierc'd with widow's cries. And undone orphans wash with tears my threshold, I only think what 'tis, to have my daughter Right Honourable; and 'tis a powerful charm, Makes me insensible of remorse, or pity, Or the least sting of conscience. In one word, therefore, Is it a match my lord?

_Lov._ I hope that is past doubt now.

_Sir G._ Then rest secure; not the hate of all mankind here, Nor fear of what can fall on me hereafter, Shall make me study aught but your advancement One story higher. An earl! if gold can do it. Dispute not my religion, nor my faith, Though I am borne thus headlong to my will; You may make choice of what belief you please, To me thy are equal; so, my lord, good morrow.

[_Exit._

_Lov._ He's gone; I wonder how the earth can bear Such a monster! I, that have liv'd a soldier, And stood the enemy's violent charge undaunted, To hear this horrid beast, I'm bath'd all over In a cold sweat; yet, like a mountain, he Is no more shaken than Olympus is, When angry Boreas loads his double head With sudden drifts of snow.

_Enter_ Lady Allworth.

_Lady A._ 'Save you, my lord. Disturb I not your privacy?

_Lov._ No, good madam; For your own sake, I am glad you came no sooner. Since this bold, bad man, Sir Giles Overreach, Made such a plain discovery of himself, And read this morning such a devilish mattins. That I should think it a sin, next to his, But to repeat it.

_Lady A._ I ne'er press'd, my lord, On others privacies; yet, against my will, Walking, for health's sake, in the gallery Adjoining to our lodgings, I was made (So loud and vehement he was) partaker Of his tempting offers. But, My good lord, If I may use my freedom, As to an honour'd friend----

_Lov._ You lessen else Your favour to me.

_Lady A._ I dare then say thus: (However common men Make sordid wealth the object and sole end Of their industrious aims), 'twill not agree With those of noble blood, of fame and honour.

_Lov._ Madam, 'tis confess'd; But what infer you from it?

_Lady A._ This, my lord: I allow The heir of Sir Giles Overreach, Margaret, A maid well qualified, and the richest match Our north part can boast of; yet she cannot, With all she brings with her fill their mouths, That never will forget who was her father; Or that my husband Allworth's lands, and Wellborn's, (How wrung from both needs no repetition,) Were real motives, that more work'd your lordship To join your families, than her form and virtues. You may conceive the rest.

_Lov._ I do, sweet madam; And long since have consider'd it. And this my resolution, mark me, madam; Were Overreach's 'states thrice centupled; his daughter Millions of degrees much fairer than she is, I would not so adulterate my blood By marrying Margaret. In my own tomb I will inter my name first.

_Lady A._ Why then, my lord, pretend you marriage to her? Dissimulation but ties false knots On that straight line, by which you hitherto Have measured all your actions.

_Lov._ I make answer, And aptly, with a question. Wherefore have you, That since your husband's death have liv'd a strict And chaste nun's life, on the sudden given yourself To visits and entertainments? Think you, madam, 'Tis not grown public conference? or the favours Which you too prodigally have thrown on Wellborn, Incur not censure?

_Lady A._ I am innocent here; and, on my life, I swear My ends are good.

_Lov._ On my soul, so are mine To Margaret; but leave both to the event: And now this friendly privacy does serve But as an offer'd means unto ourselves To search each other farther; you have shown Your care of me, I my respect to you. Deny me not, but still in chaste words, madam, An afternoon's discourse.

_Lady A._ Affected modesty might deny your suit, But such your honour; I accept it, lord. My tongue unworthy can't belie my heart. I shall attend your lordship. [_Exeunt._

SCENE II.--_A Landscape before_ Tapwell's _House_.

_Enter_ Tapwell _and_ Froth.

_Tap._ Undone, undone! this was your counsel, Froth.

_Froth._ Mine! I defy thee: did not Master Marall (He has marr'd all, I am sure) strictly command us (On pain of Sir Giles Overreach's displeasure) To turn the gentleman out of doors?

_Tap._ 'Tis true; But now he's his uncle's darling, and has got Master Justice Greedy (since he fill'd his belly) At his commandment to do any thing; Wo, wo to us.

_Froth._ He may prove merciful.

_Tap._ Troth, we do not deserve it at his hands. Though he knew all the passages of our house, As the receiving of stolen goods; When he was rogue Wellborn, no man would believe him, And then his information could not hurt us: But now he is right worshipful again. Who dares but doubt his testimony? Methinks I see thee, Froth, already in a cart, And my hand hissing (if I 'scape the halter) With the letter R printed upon it.

_Froth._ 'Would that were the worst! That were but nine days wonder: as for credit, We have none to loose; but we shall lose the money He owes us, and his custom; there's the worst on't.

_Tap._ He has summon'd all his creditors by the drum, And they swarm about him like so many soldiers On the pay day; and has found such a new way To pay his old debts, as, 'tis very likely, He shall be chronicled for it.

_Froth._ He deserves it More than ten pageants. But are you sure his worship Comes this way to my lady's?

[_A Cry Within_, Brave Mr. Wellborn!]

_Tap._ Yes, I hear him.

_Froth._ Be ready with your petition, and present it To his good grace.

_Enter_ Wellborn, _in a rich Habit_; Greedy, Marall, Amble, Order, Furnace, _and Three_ Creditors; Tapwell, _kneeling, delivers his Bill of Debt_.

_Wellb._ How's this! petitioned too? But note what miracles the payment of A little trash, and a rich suit of clothes, Can work upon these rascals. I shall be, I think, Prince Wellborn.

_Mar._ When your worship's married, You may be--I know what I hope to see you.

_Wellb._ Then look thou for advancement.

_Mar._ To be known Your worship's bailiff, is the mark I shoot at.

_Wellb._ And thou shalt hit it.

_Mar._ Pray you, sir, despatch, And for my admittance.

[_In this Interim_, Tapwell _and_ Froth _flattering and bribing_ Justice Greedy.

(Provided you'll defend me from Sir Giles, Whose service I am weary of) I'll say something You shall give thanks for.

_Wellb._ Fear him not.

_Greedy._ Who, Tapwell? I remember thy wife brought me Last new year's tide, a couple of fat turkeys.

_Tap._ And shall do every Christmas, let your worship But stand my friend now.

_Greedy._ How! with Mr. Wellborn? I can do any thing with him, on such terms---- See you this honest couple? they are good souls As ever drew out spigot; have they not A pair of honest faces?

_Wellb._ I o'erheard you, And the bribe he promis'd; you are cozen'd in them; For of all the scum that grew rich by my riots, This for a most unthankful knave, and this For a base quean, have worse deserv'd; And therefore speak not for them. By your place, You are rather to do me justice; lend me your ear, Forget his turkeys, and call in his license, And every season I will send you venison, Shall feast a mayor and the corporation.

_Greedy._ I am changed on the sudden In my opinion----Mum! my passion is great! I fry like a burnt marrowbone--Come nearer, rascal. And now I view him better, did you e'er see One look so like an arch knave? his very countenance, Should an understanding judge but look upon him, Would hang him, though he were innocent.

_Tap and Froth._ Worshipful sir!

_Greedy._ No; though the great Turk came instead of turkeys, To beg my favour, I am inexorable. Thou never hadst in thy house, to stay men's stomachs, A piece of Suffolk cheese, or gammon of bacon, Or any esculent, as the learned call it, For their emolument, but sheer drink only. For which gross fault, I here do damn thy license, Forbidding thee ever to tap or draw; For instantly, I will, in mine own person, Command the constable to pull down thy sign; And do it before I eat.

_Froth._ No mercy?

_Greedy._ Vanish. If I show any, may my promis'd venison choke me.

_Tap._ Unthankful knaves are ever so rewarded.

[_Exeunt_ Tapwell and _Froth_.

_Wellb._ Speak; what are you?

_1 Cred._ A decayed vintner, sir, That might have thriv'd, but that your worship broke me, With trusting you with muscadine and eggs, And five pound suppers, with your after-drinkings, When you lodged upon the bankside.

_Wellb._ I remember.

_1 Cred._ I have not been hasty, nor e'er laid to arrest you; And therefore, sir----

_Wellb._ Thou art an honest fellow: I'll set thee up again: see this bill paid. What are you?

_2 Cred._ A tailor once, but now mere botcher. I gave you credit for a suit of clothes, Which was all my stock; but you failing in payment, I was remov'd from the shop-board, and confin'd Under a stall.

_Wellb._ See him paid; and botch no more.

_2 Cred._ I ask no interest, sir.

_Wellb._ Such tailors need not: If their bills are paid in one and twenty years, They are seldom losers. See all men else discharg'd; And since old debts are clear'd by a new way, A little bounty will not misbecome me. Pray you, on before. I'll attend you at dinner.

_Greedy._ For Heaven's sake, don't stay long; It is almost ready.

[_Exeunt_ Greedy, Order, Furnace Amble, _and_ Creditors.

_Wellb._ Now, Mr. Marall, what's the weighty secret, You promis'd to impart?

_Mar._ Sir, time nor place Allow me to relate each circumstance; This only in a word: I know Sir Giles Will come upon you for security For his thousand pounds: which you must not consent to. As he grows in heat (as I am sure he will) Be you but rough, and say he's in your debt Ten times the sum, upon sale of your land: I had a hand in't (I speak it to my shame) When you were defeated of it.

_Wellb._ That's forgiven.

_Mar._ I shall deserve then----urge him to produce The deed in which you pass'd it over to him, Which I know he'll have about him to deliver To the Lord Lovell. I'll instruct you farther, As I wait on your worship; if I play not my part To your full content, and your uncle's much vexation, Hang up Jack Marall.

_Wellb._ I rely upon thee. [_Exeunt._

SCENE III.--_A Chamber in_ Sir Giles's _House_.

_Enter_ Allworth _and_ Margaret.

_Allw._ Whether to yield the first praise to my lord's Unequal'd temperance, or your constant sweetness, I yet rest doubtful.

_Marg._ Give it to Lord Lovell; For what in him was bounty, in me's duty. I make but payment of a debt, to which My vows, in that high office register'd, Are faithful witnesses.

_Allw._ 'Tis true, my dearest; Yet, when I call to mind, how many fair ones Make wilful shipwreck of their faiths and oaths. To fill the arms of greatness; And you, with matchless virtue, thus to hold out, Against the stern authority of a father, And spurn at honour, when it comes to court you; I am so tender of your good, that I can hardly Wish myself that right you are pleas'd to do me.

_Marg._ To me what's title when content is wanting? Or wealth, when the heart pines In being dispossess'd of what it longs for? Or the smooth brow Of a pleas'd sire, that slaves me to his will? And, so his ravenous humour may be feasted By my obedience, and he see me great, Leaves to my soul nor faculties nor power To make her own election.

_Allw._ But the dangers That follow the repulse.

_Marg._ To me they are nothing: Let Allworth love, I cannot be unhappy. Suppose the worst, that in his rage he kill me; A tear or two by you drop'd on my hearse, In sorrow for my fate, will call back life, So far as but to say, that I die yours, I then shall rest in peace.

_Allw._ Heaven avert Such trials of your true affection to me! Nor will it unto you, that are all mercy, Show so much rigour. But since we must run Such desperate hazards, let us do our best To steer between them.

_Marg._ Lord Lovell is your friend; And, though but a young actor, second me, In doing to the life what he has plotted.

_Enter_ Sir Giles Overreach.

The end may yet prove happy: now, my Allworth.

_Allw._ To your letter, and put on a seeming anger.

_Marg._ I'll pay my lord all debts due to his title, And, when, with terms not taking from his honour He does solicit me, I shall gladly hear him: But in this peremptory, nay, commanding, way, T'appoint a meeting, and without my knowledge; A priest to tie the knot, can ne'er be undone Till death unloose it, is a confidence In his lordship that will deceive him.

_Allw._ I hope better, good lady.

_Marg._ Hope, sir, what you please: for me, I must take a safe and secure course; I have A father, and without his full consent, Though all lords of the land kneel'd for my favour, I can grant nothing.

_Sir G._ I like this obedience. But whatsoever my lord writes, must and shall be Accepted and embrac'd. [_Aside._]--Sweet Mr. Allworth, You show yourself a true and faithful servant To your good lord; he has a jewel of you. How! frowning, Meg! are these looks to receive A messenger from my lord? What's this? give me it.

_Marg._ A piece of arrogant paper, like th'inscriptions.

[Sir Giles _reads the letter_.

Fair mistress, from your servant learn, all joys That we can hope for, if deferr'd prove toys; Therefore this instant, and in private, meet A husband, that will gladly at your feet Lay down his honours, tend'ring them to you With all content, the church being paid her due.

_Sir G._ Is this the arrogant piece of paper? fool! Will you still be one? In the name of madness, what Could his good honour write more to content you? Is there aught else to be wish'd after these two That are already offer'd? What would you more?

_Marg._ Why, sir, I would be married like your daughter, Not hurried away i'th' night, I know not whither, Without all ceremony; no friends invited, To honour the solemnity.

_Allw._ An't please your honour, (For so before tomorrow I must style you,) My lord desires this privacy, in respect His honourable kinsmen are far off, And his desires to have it done brook not So long delay as to expect their coming; And yet he stands resolv'd, with all due pomp, To have his marriage at court celebrated, When he has brought your honour up to London.

_Sir G._ He tells you true; 'tis the fashion on my knowledge: Yet the good lord, to please your peevishness, Must put it off, forsooth.

_Marg._ I could be contented, Were you but by, to do a father's part, And give me in the church.

_Sir G._ So my lord have you, What do I care who gives you? since my lord Does purpose to be private, I'll not cross him. I know not, Mr. Allworth, how my lord May be provided, and therefore there's a purse Of gold: 'twill serve this night's expense; tomorrow I'll furnish him with any sums. In the meantime Use my ring to my chaplain; he is beneficed At my manor of Gotham, and call'd Parson Welldo: 'Tis no matter for a license, I'll bear him out in't.

_Marg._ With your favour, sir, what warrant is your ring? He may suppose I got that twenty ways, Without your knowledge; and then to be refus'd, Were such a stain upon me--If you please, sir, Your presence would be better.

_Sir G._ Still perverse? I say again, I will not cross my lord, Yet I'll prevent you too--Paper and ink there.

_Allw._ I can furnish you.

_Sir G._ I thank you, I can write then.

[_Writes on his Book._

_Allw._ You may, if you please, leave out the name of my lord, In respect he comes disguis'd, and only write, Marry her to this gentleman.

_Sir G._ Well advis'd. [Margaret _kneels_. 'Tis done: away--my blessing, girl? thou hast it. Nay, no reply--begone, good Mr. Allworth; This shall be the best night's work you ever made.

_Allw._ I hope so, sir.

[_Exeunt_ Allworth _and_ Margaret.

_Sir G._ Farewell. Now all's cocksure. Methinks I hear already knights and ladies Say, Sir Giles Overreach, how is it with Your honourable daughter? has her honour Slept well tonight? or, will her honour please To accept this monkey, dog, or paroquet? (This is state in ladies) or my eldest son To be her page, to wait upon her?---- My ends, my ends are compass'd! then for Wellborn And the lands; were he once married to the widow-- I have him here----I can scarce contain myself, I am so full of joy; nay, joy all over! [_Exit._

ACT. V.

SCENE I.--_A Chamber in_ Lady Allworth's _House_.

_Enter_ Lovell _and_ Lady Allworth.

_Lady A._ By this you know how strong the motives were That did, my lord, induce me to dispense A little with my gravity, to advance The plots and projects of the down-trod Wellborn. Nor shall I e'er repent the action, For he, that ventur'd all for my dear husband, Might justly claim an obligation from me, To pay him such a courtesy: which had I Coyly, or over curiously deny'd, It might have argued me of little love To the deceas'd.

_Lov._ What you intended, madam, For the poor gentleman, hath found good success; For, as I understand, his debts are paid, And he once more furnish'd for fair employment: But all the arts that I have us'd to raise The fortunes of your joy and mine, young Allworth, Stand yet in supposition, though I hope well. For the young lovers are in wit more pregnant Than their years can promise; and for their desires, On my knowledge they equal.

_Lady A._ Though my wishes Are with yours, my lord; yet give me leave to fear The building, though well grounded. To deceive Sir Giles (that's both a lion and a fox In his proceedings) were a work beyond The strongest undertakers; not the trial Of two weak innocents.

_Lov._ Despair not, madam: Hard things are compass'd oft by easy means. The cunning statesman, that believes he fathoms The counsels of all kingdoms on the earth, Is by simplicity oft overreach'd.

_Lady A._ May be so. The young ones have my warmest wishes.

_Lov._ O, gentle lady, let them prove kind to me You've kindly heard--now grant my suit. What say you, lady?

_Lady A._ Troth, my lord, My own unworthiness may answer for me; For had you, when I was in my prime, Presented me with this great favour, I could not but have thought it as a blessing, Far, far beyond my merit.

_Lov._ You are too modest. In a word, Our years, our states, our births, are not unequal. If then you may be won to make me happy, But join your hand to mine, and that shall be A solemn contract.

_Lady A._ I were blind to my own good, Should I refuse it; yet, my lord, receive me As such a one; the study of whose whole life Shall know no other object but to please you.

_Lov._ If I return not, with all tenderness, Equal respect to you, may I die wretched!

_Lady A._ There needs no protestation, my lord, To her, that cannot doubt--You are welcome, sir.

_Enter_ Wellborn.

Now you look like yourself.

_Wellb._ And will continue that I am, Your creature, madam, and will never hold My life mine own, when you please to demand it.

_Lov._ It is a thankfulness that well becomes you; You could not make choice of a better shape To dress your mind in.

_Lady A._ For me, I am happy That my endeavours prosper'd. Saw you of late Sir Giles, your uncle?

_Wellb._ I heard of him, madam, By his minister, Marall: he's grown into strange passions About his daughter. This last night he look'd for Your lordship, at his house; but, missing you, And she not yet appearing, his wise head Is much perplex'd and troubled.

_Lov._ I hope my project took.

_Lady A._ I strongly hope.

_Sir G._ [_Without._] Ha! find her, booby; thou huge lump of nothing, I'll bore thine eyes out else.

_Wellb._ May it please your lordship, For some ends of mine own, but to withdraw A little out of sight, though not of hearing.-- You may, perhaps, have sport.

_Lov._ You shall direct me. [_Exit._

_Enter_ Overreach, _drawing in_ Marall.

_Sir G._ I shall sol fa you, rogue!

_Mar._ Sir, for what cause Do you use me thus?

_Sir G._ Cause, slave! why, I am angry; And thou a subject only fit for beating; And so to cool my choler. Look to the writing; Let but the seal be broke upon the box, That has slept in my cabinet these three years, I'll rack thy soul for't.

_Mar._ I may yet cry 'quittance; Though now I suffer, and dare not resist. [_Aside._

_Sir G._ Lady, by your leave, did you see my daughter, lady? And the lord her husband? Are they in your house? If they are, discover, that I may bid them joy: And, as an entrance to her place of honour, See your ladyship on her left hand.

_Lady A._ When I know, Sir Giles, Her state requires such ceremony, I shall pay it; But, in the meantime, I give you to understand, I neither know Nor care where her honour is.

_Sir G._ When you once see her Supported, and led by the lord her husband, You'll be taught better.--Nephew!

_Wellb._ Well.

_Sir G._ No more!

_Wellb._ 'Tis all I owe you.

_Sir G._ Have your redeem'd rags Made you thus insolent?

_Wellb._ Insolent to you? [_In scorn._ Why, what are you, sir, unless in years, more than myself?

_Sir G._ His fortune swells him: 'Tis rank--he's married.

_Lady A._ This is excellent!

_Sir G._ Sir, in calm language (though I seldom use it), I am familiar with the cause that makes you Bear up thus bravely; there's a certain buzz Of a stolen marriage; Do you hear? of a stolen marriage; In which, 'tis said, there's somebody hath been cozen'd. I name no parties. [Lady Allworth _turns away_.

_Wellb._ Well, sir; and what follows?

_Sir G._ Marry, this: since you are peremptory, remember, Upon mere hope of your great match, I lent you A thousand pounds; put me in good security, And suddenly, by mortgage or by statute, Of some of your new possessions, or I'll have you Dragg'd in your lavender robe, to the jail; you know me, And therefore do not trifle.

_Wellb._ Can you be So cruel to your nephew, now he's in The way to rise? Was this the courtesy You did me in pure love, and no ends else?

_Sir G._ End me no ends; engage the whole estate, And force your spouse to sign it: you shall have Three or four thousand more to roar and swagger, And revel in bawdy taverns.

_Wellb._ And beg after: Mean you not so?

_Sir G._ My thoughts are mine, and free. Shall I have security?

_Wellb._ No, indeed, you shall not: Nor bond, nor bill, nor bare acknowledgement. Your great looks fright not me.

_Sir G._ But my deeds shall.---- Out-brav'd! [_They both draw._

_Enter_ Two Servants.

_Lady A._ Help! murder! murder!

_Wellb._ Let him come on; With all his wrongs and injuries about him, Arm'd with his cut throat practices to guard him; The right I bring with me will defend me, And punish his extortion.

_Sir G._ That I had thee But single in the field!

_Lady A._ You may; but make not My house your quarrelling scene.

_Sir G._ Were't in a church, By heaven and hell, I'll do't.

_Mar._ Now put him to The showing of the deed.

_Wellb._ This rage is vain, sir; For fighting, fear not, you shall have your hands full, Upon the least incitement: and whereas You charge me with a debt of a thousand pounds, If there be law (howe'er you have no conscience) Either restore my land, or I'll recover A debt that's truly due to me from you, In value ten times more than what you challenge.

_Sir G._ I in thy debt! oh, impudence! Did I not purchase The land left by thy father? that rich land, That had continued in Wellborn's name Twenty descents; which, like a riotous fool, Thou didst make sale of? Is not here The deed that does confirm it mine?

_Mar._ Now, now!

_Wellb._ I do acknowledge none; I ne'er pass'd o'er Such land: I grant, for a year or two, You had it in trust: which, if you do discharge Surrendering the possession, you shall ease Yourself and me of chargeable suits in law; Which, if you prove not honest (as I doubt it), Must, of necessity, follow.

_Lady A._ In my judgment, He does advise you well.

_Sir G._ Good, good! conspire With your new husband, lady; second him In his dishonest practices; but, when This manor is extended to my use, You'll speak in an humbler key, and sue for favor.

_Wellb._ Let despair first seize me.

_Sir G._ Yet, to shut up thy mouth, and make thee give Thyself the lie, the loud lie--I draw out The precious evidence: If thou canst forswear Thy hand and seal, and make a forfeit of Thy ears to the pillory--see, here's that will make My interest clear.

[_Shows the Deed out of his Pocket._

Ha!--

_Lady A._ A fair skin of parchment!

_Wellb._ Indented, I confess, and labels too; But neither wax nor words. How, thunderstruck! Is this your precious evidence? Is this that makes Your interest clear?

_Sir G._ I am o'erwhelmed with wonder! What prodigy was this? what subtle devil Hath raz'd out the inscription? the wax Turn'd into dust, Made nothing! do you deal with witches, rascal? There's a statute for you which will bring Your neck in a hempen circle;

[_Throws away the deed._

Yes there is. And now 'tis better thought; for, cheater, know This juggling shall not save you.

_Wellb._ To save thee, Would beggar the stock of mercy.

_Sir G._ Marall?

_Mar._ Sir!

_Sir G._ Though the witnesses are dead,

[_Flattering him._

Your testimony. Help with an oath or two; and for thy master, Thy liberal master, my good honest servant, I know you will swear any thing, to dash This cunning slight: besides, I know thou art A public notary, and such stands in law For a dozen witnesses; the deed being drawn too By thee, my careful Marall, and deliver'd When thou wert present, will make good my title: Wilt thou not swear this?

_Mar._ I! No, I assure you. I have a conscience not sear'd up like yours; I know no deeds.

_Sir G._ Wilt thou betray me?

_Mar._ Keep him From using of his hands, I'll use my tongue To his no little torment.

_Sir G._ My own varlet Rebel against me?

_Mar._ Yes, and unease you too. The idiot! the patch! the slave! the booby! The property fit only to be beaten For your morning exercise? your football, or Th'unprofitable lump of flesh, your drudge, Can now anatomize you, and lay open All your black plots; level with the earth Your hill of pride, and shake, Nay pulverize, the walls you think defend you.

_Lady A._ How he foams at the mouth with rage!

_Sir G._ O, that I had thee in my gripe, I would tear thee Joint after joint!

_Mar._ I know you are a tearer. But I'll have first your fangs pared off; and then Come nearer to you; when I have discover'd, And made it good before the judge what ways And devilish practices you us'd to cozen with.

_Wellb._ [_Keep between them._] All will come out.

_Sir G._ But that I will live, rogue, to torture thee, And make thee wish, and kneel in vain to die; I play the fool, and make my anger but ridiculous. There will be a time, and place, there will be, cowards, When you shall feel what I dare do.

_Wellb._ I think so: You dare do any ill; yet want true valour To be honest, and repent.

_Sir G._ They are words I know not, No e'er will learn. Patience, the beggar's virtue, Shall find no harbour here.--After these storms, At length a calm appears.

_Enter_ Greedy _and_ Parson Welldo.

Welcome, most welcome: There's comfort in thy looks; is the deed done? Is my daughter married? say but so, my chaplain, And I am tame.

_Welldo._ Married? yes, I assure you!

_Sir G._ Then vanish all sad thoughts! My doubts and fears are in the title drown'd Of my right honourable, right honourable daughter.

_Greedy._ Here will be feasting, at least for a month!

_Sir G._ Instantly be here?

[_Whispering to_ Welldo.

To my wish! to my wish! Now you that plot against me, And hoped to trip my heels up; that contemn'd me; Think on't, and tremble. [_Loud Music._] They come, I hear the music. A lane there! Make way there for my lord. [_Music._

_Enter_ Allworth _and_ Margaret.

_Marg._ Sir, first your pardon, then your blessing with Your full allowance of the choice I have made. As ever you could make use of your reason, [_Kneels._ Grow not in passion; since you may as well Call back the day that's past, as untie the knot Which is so strongly fasten'd. Not to dwell too long on words, This is my husband.

_Sir G._ How!

_Allw._ So I assure you; all the rites of marriage With every circumstance are past. And, for right honourable son-in-law, you may say Your dutiful daughter.

_Sir G._ Devil! are they married?

_Welldo._ Do a father's part, and say Heaven give them joy!

_Sir G._ Confusion and ruin! Speak, and speak quickly, Or thou art dead.

_Welldo._ They are married.

_Sir G._ Thou hadst better Have made a contract with the king of fiends Than these.----My brain turns!

_Welldo._ Why this rage to me? Is not this your letter, sir? and these the words? Marry her to this gentleman.

_Sir G._ It cannot; Nor will I ever believe it: 'sdeath! I will not. That I, that in all passages I touch'd At worldly profit, have not left a print Where I have trod, for the most curious search To trace my footsteps; should be gull'd by children! Baffled and fool'd; and all my hopes and labours Defeated, and made void.

_Welb._ As it appears, You are so, my grave uncle.

_Sir G._ Village nurses Revenge their wrongs with curses; I'll not waste A syllable, but thus I take the life Which wretched I gave to thee.

[_Offers to kill_ Margaret.

_Lov._ Hold, for your own sake! Though charity to your daughter hath quite left you Will you do an act, though in your hopes lost here, Can leave no hopes for peace or rest hereafter?

_Sir G._ Lord! thus I spit at thee, And at thy council; and again desire thee, As thou art a soldier, if thy valour Dares show itself where multitude and example Lead not the way, let's quit the house, and change Six words in private.

_Lov._ I am ready.

_Wellb._ You'll grow like him, Should you answer his vain challenge.

_Sir G._ Are you pale? Borrow his help, though Hercules call it odds, I'll stand against both. Say, they were a squadron Of pikes lined through with shot; when I am mounted Upon my injuries, shall I fear to charge them? No: I'll through the battalia, and that routed,

[_Flourishing his Sword, sheathed._

I'll fall to execution.--Ha! I am feeble: Some undone widow sits upon mine arm, And takes away the use of't; and my sword, Glew'd to my scabbard with wrong'd orphans' tears, Will not be drawn. [Servants _hold him._ Ha! what are these?--Sure, hangmen, That come to bind my hands, and then to drag me Before the judgment seat.--Now, they are new shapes, And do appear like furies, with steel whips, To scourge my ulcerous soul: Shall I then fall Ingloriously, and yield? No: spite of fate I will be forc'd to hell like to myself; Though you were legions of accursed spirits, Thus would I fly among you.--

[_Dragged off by_ Order _and_ Amble.

_Mar._ It's brave sport!

_Greedy._ Brave sport? I'm sure it has ta'en away my stomach. I do not like the sauce!

_Allw._ Nay, weep not, my dearest,

[_To_ Margaret.

Though it express your pity! what's decreed Above, you cannot alter.

_Mar._ Was it not a rare trick, (An't please your worship) to make the deed nothing.

_Wellb._ I pray thee discover, what cunning Means you us'd to raze out the conveyance.

_Mar._ Certain minerals I us'd, Incorporated in the ink and wax. Besides, he gave me nothing, but still fed me With hopes and blows: and that was the inducement To this conundrum. If it please your worship To call to memory, this mad beast once caus'd me To urge you to drown or hang yourself; I'll do the like to him if you command me.

_Wellb._ You are a rascal. He that dares be false To a master, though unjust, will ne'er be true To any other. Look not for reward, Or favour from me; I will shun thy sight, As I would do a basilisk's.

_Greedy._ I'll commit him, If you'll have me, sir.

_Wellb._ Not a word, But instantly be gone.

[_Exit_ Marall.

_Lov._ Here is a precedent to teach wicked men; That when they leave religion, and turn atheists, Their own abilities leave them. Pray you take comfort, I will endeavour you shall be his guardians In his distraction: and for your land, Mr. Wellborn, Be it good or ill in law, I'll be an umpire Between you, and this the undoubted heir Of Sir Giles Overreach: for me, here's the anchor That I must fix on.

[_Takes_ Lady Allworth's _hand_.

_Allw._ What you shall determine, My lord, I will allow of.

_Wellb._ It is a time of action; if your lordship Will please to confer a company upon me In your command, I doubt not, in my service, To my king and country, but I shall do something That may make me right again.

_Lov._ Your suit is granted, And you lov'd for the motion.

_Wellb._ Nothing wants then

[_To the Audience._

But your allowance--and, in that, our all Is comprehended; it being known, nor we, Nor even the comedy itself is free, Without your manumission. That Obtain'd, Our utmost wish we hold, and from the store Of ancient wit, produce one genius more; While honest Massinger himself, to night Shall teach our modern witlings how to write.