Chapter XXVIII: Act V: SCENE I. The Corso

_Enter_ Petro, Tickletext, _from the Garden_.

_Tick_. Haste, honest _Barberacho_, before the Day discover us to the wicked World, and that more wicked _Galliard_.

_Pet_. Well, Signior, of a bad turn it was a good one, that he took you for Sir _Signal_! the Scandal lies at his door now Sir,--so the Ladder’s fast, you may now mount and away.--

_Tick_. Very well, go your ways, and commend me, honest _Barberacho_, to the young Gentlewoman, and let her know, as soon as I may be certain to run no hazard in my Reputation, I’ll visit her again.

_Pet_. I’ll warrant ye, Signior, for the future.

_Tick_. So, now get you gone lest we be discover’d.

_Pet_. Farewel, Signior, _a bon viage_.
[_Ex_. Pet. Tick, _descends_.

_Tick_. ‘Tis marvellous dark, and I have lost my Lanthorn in the fray! [_Groping_.] --hah--whereabouts am I--hum--what have we here!--ah, help, help, help! [_Stumbles_ _at the Well, gets hold of the Rope, and slides down in the Bucket_.] I shall be drown’d, Fire, Fire, Fire! for I have Water enough! Oh, for some House,--some Street; nay, wou’d _Rome_ it-self were a second time in flames, that my Deliverance might be wrought by the necessity for Water: but no human Help is nigh--oh!

_Enter Sir_ Sig. _as before_.

Sir _Sig_. Did ever any Knight-Adventurer run through so many Disasters in one night! my worshipful Carcase has been cudgel’d most plentifully, first bang’d for a Coward, which by the way was none of my Fault, I cannot help Nature: then claw’d away for a _Diavillo_, there I was the Fool; but who can help that too? frighted with _Gal’s_ coming into an Ague; then chimney’d into a Fever, where I had a fine Regale of Soot, a Perfume which nothing but my _Cackamarda Orangate_ cou’d exceell; and which I find by [_snuffs_] my smelling has defac’d Nature’s Image, and a second time made me be suspected for a Devil.--let me see--[_Opens his Lanthorn, and looks on his Hands_.] ‘tis so--I am in a cleanly Pickle: if my Face be of the same Hue, I am fit to scare away old _Beelzebub_ himself, i’faith: [_Wipes his Face_.]--ay, ‘tis so, like to like, quoth the Devil to the Collier: well I’ll home, scrub my self clean if possible, get me to Bed, devise a handsom Lye to excuse my long stay to my Governour, and all’s well, and the Man has his Mare again. [_Shuts his Lanthorn and gropes away, runs against the Well.--Quequesto (feels gently.)_] Make me thankful ‘tis substantial Wood, by your leave-- [_Opens his Lanthorn_.] How! a Well! sent by Providence that I may wash my self, lest People smoke me by the scent, and beat me a-new for stinking: [_Sets down his Lanthorn, pulls of his Masking-Coat, and goes to draw Water_.] ‘Tis a damnable heavy Bucket! now do I fancy I shall look, when I am washing my self, like the sign of the Labour-in-vain.

_Tick_. So, my cry is gone forth, and I am delivered by Miracle from this Dungeon of Death and Darkness, this cold Element of Destruction--

Sir _Sig_. Hah--sure I heard a dismal hollow Voice.

[Tick. _appears in the Bucket above the Well_.

_Tick_. What, art thou come in Charity?

Sir _Sig_. Ah, _le Diavilo, le Diavilo, le Diavilo_.
[_Lets go the Bucket, and is running frighted away_.

_Enter_ Fillamour _and_ Page, _he returns_.

--How, a Man! was ever wretched Wight so miserable, the Devil at one hand, and a _Roman_ Night-walker at the other; which danger shall I chuse? [_Gets to the door of the House_.

_Tick_. So, I am got up at last--thanks to my Knight, for I am sure ‘twas he! hah, he’s here--I’ll hear his Business. [_Goes near to_ Fillamour.

_Fil_. Confound this Woman, this bewitching Woman: I cannot shake her from my sullen Heart; Spite of my Soul I linger hereabouts, and cannot to _Viterbo_.

_Tick_. Very good; a dainty Rascal this!

_Enter_ Galliard _with a Lanthorn, as from_ Silvia’s
_House, held by_ Philippa.

_Fil_.--Hah, who’s this coming from her House? Perhaps ‘tis _Galliard_.

_Gal_. No Argument shall fetch me back, by Heaven.

_Fil_. ‘Tis the mad Rogue.

_Tick_. Oh Lord, ‘tis _Galliard_, and angry too; now cou’d I but get off, and leave Sir _Signal_ to be beaten, ‘twere a rare project--but ‘tis impossible without discovery.

_Phil_. But will you hear her, Signior?

_Gal_. That is, will I lose more time about her? Plague on’t, I have thrown away already such Songs and Sonnets, such Madrigals and Posies, such Night-walks, Sighs, and direful Lovers looks, as wou’d have mollify’d any Woman of Conscience and Religion; and now to be popt i’th’ mouth with Quality! Well, if ever you catch me lying with any but honest well-meaning Damsels hereafter, hang me:--farewel, old Secret, farewel. [_Ex_. Philippa. --Now am I asham’d of being cozen’d so damnably, _Fillamour_, that virtuous Rascal, will so laugh at me; s’heart, cou’d I but have debaucht him, we had been on equal terms.--but I must help my self with lying, and swear I have--a--

_Fil_. You shall not need, I’ll keep your Counsel, Sir.

_Gal_. Hah--_estes vous la_?--

_Tick_. How, _Fillamour_ all this while! some Comfort yet, I am not the only Professor that dissembles: but how to get away--

_Gal_. Oh _Harry_, the most damnably defeated!
[_A Noise of Swords_.

_Fil_. Hold! what Noise is that? two Men coming this way as from the house of the Curtezans.

_Enter_ Julio _backwards, fighting_ Octavio _and Bravoes_.

_Gal_. Hah, on retreating,--S’death, I’ve no Sword!

_Fil_. Here’s one, I’ll take my Page’s.
[_Takes the Boy’s Sword_.

_Gal_. Now am I mad for mischief; here, hold my Lanthorn, Boy.

[_They fight on_ Julio’s _side, and fight_ Octavio _out at
t’other side: Enter_ Laura _and_ Sabina _at the Fore-door,
which is the same where Sir_ Signal _stands:_ Tick. _groping
up that way, finds Sir_ Sig. _just entring in;_ Laura _and_
Sab. _pass over the Stage_.

Sir _Sig_. Hah, a door open! I care not who it belongs to, ‘tis better dying within Doors like a Man, than in the Street like a Dog. [_Going in_, Tick. _in great fear comes up and pulls him_.

_Tick_. Signior, gentle Signior, whoe’er you are that owns this Mansion, I beseech you to give Protection to a wretched Man half dead with Fear and Injury.

Sir _Sig_. Nay, I defy the Devil to be more dead with Fear than I-- Signior, you may enter, perhaps ‘tis some body that will make an Excuse for us both,--but hark, they return. [_Both go in, just after_ Lau. _and_ Sab. _and_ Silvio _enter_.

_Lau_. He’s gone! he’s gone! perhaps for ever gone.-- Tell me, thou silly Manager of Love, How got this Ruffian in? how was it possible Without thy Knowledge he cou’d get Admittance?

_Sab_. Now as I hope to live and learn, I know not, Madam, unless he follow’d you when you let in the Cavalier, which being by dark he easily conceal’d himself; no doubt some Lover of _Silvianetta’s_, who mistaking you for her, took him too for a Rival.

_Lau_. ‘Tis likely, and my Fortune is to blame, my cursed Fortune, Who like Misers deals her scanty Bounties with so slow a hand, That or we die before the Blessing falls, Or have it snatcht e’er we can call it ours. [_Raving_.] To have him in my House, to have him kind, Kind as young Lovers when they meet by stealth; As fond as Age to Beauty, and as soft As Love and Wit cou’d make impatient Youth, Preventing even my Wishes and Desires, --Oh Gods! and then, even then to be defeated, Then from my o’erjoy’d Arms to have him snatcht; Then when our Vows had made our Freedom lawful; What Maid cou’d suffer a Surprize so cruel? --The Day begins to break,--go search the Streets, And bring me news he’s safe, or I am lost.

_Enter_ Gal. Fil. _and_ Jul.

_Fil_. _Galliard_, where art thou?

_Gal_. Here safe, and by thy side.--

_Lau_. ‘Tis he!

_Jul_. Whoe’er he were, the Rogue fought like a Fury, and but for your timely Aid I’d been in some Danger.

_Fil_. But, _Galliard_, thou wert telling me thy Adventure with _Silvianetta_; there may be comfort in’t.

_Lau_. So, now I shall hear with what concern he speaks of me.--
[_Aside_.

_Gal_. Oh, damn her, damn her!

_Lau_. Hah!

_Gal_. The veriest Jilt that ever learnt the Art.

_Lau_. Heavens!

_Gal_. Death, the Whore took me for some amorous _English_ elder Brother, and was for Matrimony, in the Devil’s name; thought me a loving Fool, that ne’er had seen so glorious a sight before, and wou’d at any rate enjoy.

_Lau_. Oh Heaven! I’m amaz’d, how much he differs from the thing he was but a few Minutes since. [_Aside_.

_Gal_. And to advance her Price, set up for Quality; nay, swore she was a Maid, and that she did but act the Curtezan.

_Lau_. Which then he seem’d to give a credit to.--O, the forsworn Dissembler!

_Gal_. But when I came to the matter then in debate, she was for honourable Love forsooth, and wou’d not yield, no marry wou’d she, not under a Licence from the Parson of the Parish.

_Jul_. Who was it, prithee? ‘twere a good Deed to be so reveng’d on her.

_Gal_. Pox on her; no, I’m sure she’s a damn’d Gipsy, for at the same time she had her Lovers in reserve, lay hid her Bed-chamber.

_Lau_. ‘Twas that he took unkindly, And makes me guilty of that rude Address.

_Fil_. Another Lover had she?

_Gal_. Yes, our Coxcomb Knight Buffoon, laid by for a relishing Bit, in case I prov’d not season’d to her Mind.

_Lau_. Hah, he knew him then.

_Gal_. But damn her, she passes with the Night, the Day will bring new Objects.

_Fil_. Oh, do not doubt it, _Frank_.

_Lau_. False and Inconstant! Oh, I shall rave, _Silvio_--
[_Aside to Sil_.

_Enter_ Cornelia _in Man’s Clothes with a Letter_.

_Cor_. Here be the Cavaliers: give me, kind Heaven, but hold of him; and if I keep him not, I here renounce my Charms of Wit and Beauty--Signiors, is there a Cavalier amongst ye, call’d _Fillamour_?

_Fil_. I own that Name; what wou’d you, Sir?

_Cor_. Only deliver this, Signior.

[Fil. _goes aside, opens his Lanthorn, and reads_,
Jul. _and_ Gal. _talk aside_.

_Fil_. [Reads.] _I’ll only tell you I am Brother to that Marcella whom you have injured, to oblige you to meet me an Hour hence, in the_ Piazo Despagnia: _I need not say with your Sword in your hand, since you will there meet_ Julio Sebastiano Morosini! --Hah! her Brother sure return’d from Travel. [_Aside_.

--Signior,--I will not fail to answer it as he desires.
[_To_ Cornelia.
I’ll take this Opportunity to steal off undiscover’d.
[_Aside going out_.

_Cor_. So, I’ve done my Sister’s Business; now for my own.

_Gal_. But, my good Friend, pray what Adventure have you been on to night.

_Jul_. Faith, Sir, ‘twas like to have prov’d a pleasant one, I came just now from _Silvianetta_, the fair young Curtezan.

_Cor_. Hah! what said the Man--came from me! [_Aside_.

_Gal_. How, Sir, you with _Silvianetta!_ when?

_Jul_. Now, all the dear live-long Night.

_Cor_. A Pox take him, who can this be? [_Aside_.

_Gal_. This night! this night! that is not yet departed.

_Jul_. This very happy Night,--I told you I saw a lovely Woman at St. _Peter’s_ Church.

_Gal_. You did so.

_Jul_. I told you too I follow’d her home, but you’d learn neither her Name nor Quality; but my Page getting into the acquaintance of one of hers, brought me News of both; her Name _Silvianetta_, her Quality a Curtezan.

_Cor_. I at Church yesterday! now hang me if I had any such devout Thoughts about me: why, what a damn’d scandalous Rascal’s this?

_Jul_. Fill’d with hopes of Success, at night I made her a Visit, and under her Window had a skirmish with some Rival, who was then serenading her.

_Gal_. Was’t he that fought us then.--[_Aside_.-- But it seems you were not mistaken in the House-- On with your Story pray--Death, I grow jealous now-- [_Aside_.] You came at Night you said?

_Jul_. Yes, and was receiv’d at the door by the kind _Silvianetta_, who softly whisper’d me, come to my Bosom, and be safe for ever! and doubtless took me for some happier Man.

_Lau_. Confusion on him, ‘twas my very Language! [_Aside raving_.

_Jul_. Then led me by dark into her Chamber.

_Cor_. Oh, this damn’d lying Rascal! I do this? [_Aside_.

_Jul_. But oh, the things, the dear obliging things, the kind, the fair young Charmer said and did.

_Gal_. To thee!

_Jul_. To me.

_Gal_. Did _Silvianetta_ do this, _Silvianetta_ the Curtezan?

_Jul_. That passes, Sir, for such, but is indeed of Quality.

_Cor_. This Stranger is the Devil, how shou’d he know that Secret else?

_Jul_. She told me too ‘twas for my sake alone, whom from the first Minute she saw she lov’d, she had assum’d that Name and that Disguise, the sooner to invite me.

_Lau_. ‘Tis plain, the things I utter’d!--Oh, my Heart!

_Gal_. Curse on the publick Jilt, the very Flattery she wou’d have past on me.

_Cor_. Pox take him, I must draw on him, I cannot hold. [_Aside_.

_Gal_. Was ever such a Whore?

_Lau_. Oh, that I knew this Man, whom by mistake I lavisht all the Secrets of my Soul to! [_Aside_.

_Jul_. I prest for something more than dear Expressions, And found her yield apace; But sighing, told me of a fatal Contract, She was oblig’d to make to one she never saw; And yet if I wou’d vow to marry her, when she cou’d prove To merit it, she wou’d deny me nothing.

_Lau_. ‘Twas I, by Heaven, that heedless Fool was I.

_Jul_. Which I with Lover’s’ eager Joy perform’d, And on my Knees utter’d the hasty Words, Which she repeated o’er, and gave me back.

_Gal_. So, he has swallow’d with a vengeance the very Bait she had prepar’d for me, or any body that wou’d bite. [_Aside_.

_Jul_. But e’er I cou’d receive the dear Reward of all my Vows, I was drawn upon by a Man that lay hid in her Chamber; Whether by chance or design I know not; who fought me out, And was the same you found me engag’d with.

_Cor_. A pleasant Rascal this, as e’er the Devil taught his Lesson to.

_Gal_. So, my Comfort is, she has jilted him too most damnably.

_Cor_. Slife, I have anger enough to make me valiant; why shou’d I not make use on’t, and beat this lying Villain whilst the Fit holds?

_Gal_. And you design to keep these Vows, though you’re contracted to another Woman?

_Jul_. I neither thought of breaking those, or keeping these; My Soul was all employ’d another way.

_Lau_. It shall be so, _Silvio_,--I’ve thought upon a way that must redeem all:--hark and observe me. [_Takes_ Sil. _and whispers to him_.

_Jul_. But I’m impatient to pursue my Adventure, which I must endeavour to do, before the Light discover the Mistake.--Farewel, Sir. [_Ex_. Julio.

_Gal_. Go and be ruin’d quite, she has the Knack of doing it.

_Sil_. I’ll warrant ye, Madam, for my Part.
[_Ex_. Laura and Sabina.

_Gal_. I have a damn’d hankering after this Woman: why cou’d I not have put the cheat on her, as _Julio_ has? I stand as little on my Word as he: a good round Oath or two had done the Business.--But a pox on’t, I lov’d too well to be so wise.

[Silvio _comes up to him_.

_Sil_. _Con licentia_, Signior; is your Name _Galliard_?

_Gal_. I am the Man, sweet Heart,--let me behold thee--hah--_Sans Coeur’s_ Page!

_Sil_. A duce of his Lanthorn, what shall I say now?--Softly, Signior, I am that Page whose chiefest Business is to attend my Lord’s Mistress, Sir.

_Cor_. His Mistress! whose Mistress, what Mistress? S’life, how that little Word has nettled me! [_Aside, listening close_.

_Gal_. Upon my Life, the Woman that he boasted of-- [_Aside, hugging of himself_.] --A fair young amorous--noble--Wanton--a--And she wou’d speak with me, my lovely Boy?

_Sil_. You have prevented the Commands I had; but should my Lord know of it--

_Gal_. Thou wert undone, I understand thee-- And will be secret as a Confessor, As lonely Shades, or everlasting Night. Come, lead the way.

_Cor_. Where I will follow thee, though to the Bed of her thou’rt going to, and even prevent thy very Business there. [_Aside_.]

[_Exeunt_.

SCENE II. _A Chamber_.

_Enter_ Laura, _as before, in a Night-Gown_.

_Lau_. Now for a Power that never yet was known To charm this Stranger quickly into Love. Assist my Eyes, thou God of kind Desires; Inspire my Language with a moving Force, That may at once gain and secure the Victory.

_Enter_ Silvio.

_Sil_. Madam, your Lover’s here: your time’s but short; consider too, Count _Julio_ may arrive.

_Lau_. Let him arrive; having secur’d my self of what I love, I’ll leave him to complain his unknown Loss To careless Winds as pitiless as I--_Silvio_, see the Rooms Be fill’d with Lights, whilst I prepare my self to entertain him. Darkness shall ne’er deceive me more--

[_Enter to_ Sil. Gal. _gazing about him_,
Cor. _peeping at the Door_.

_Gal_. All’s wondrous rich,--gay as the Court of Love, But still and silent as the Shades of Death; --Hah--Musick! and excellent! [_Soft Musick whilst they speak_. Pox on’t--but where’s the Woman?--I need no preparation.--

_Cor_. No, you are always provided for such Encounters, and can fall to _sans_ Ceremony,--but I may spoil your Stomach. [_A Song tuning_.

_Gal_. A Voice too! by Heaven, and ‘tis a sweet one: Grant she be young, and I’ll excuse the rest, Yet vie for Pleasure with the happiest _Roman_.

[_The Song as by_ Laura, _after which soft Musick till she enters_.

The SONG by a Person of Quality.

_Farewel the World and mortal Cares,
The ravished Strephon cry’d,
As full of Joy and tender Tears
He lay by Phillis’ side:
Let others toil for Wealth and Fame,
Whilst not one Thought of mine
At any other Bliss shall aim,
But those dear Arms, but those dear Arms of thine.

Still let me gaze in thy bright Eyes,
And hear thy charming Tongue;
I nothing ask t’increase my Joys,
But thus to feel ‘em long.
In close Embraces let us lie,
And spend our Lives to come;
Then let us both together die,
And be each other’s, be each other’s Tomb_.

--Death, I’m fir’d already with her Voice--

_Cor_. So, I am like to thrive.--

_Enter_ Julio.

_Jul_. What mean these Lights in every Room, as if to make The day without the Sun, and quite destroy my Hopes!-- Hah, _Galliard_ here!

_Cor_. A Man! grant it some Lover, or some Husband, Heaven, Or any thing that will but spoil the Sport. The Lady! Oh, blast her, how fair she is!

_Enter_ Laura _with her Lute, drest in a careless rich Dress,
followed by_ Sabina, _to whom she gives her Lute, and_ Silvio.

_Jul_. Hah! ‘tis the same Woman.
[_She sees_ Julio _and starts_.

_Lau_. A Stranger here! What Art can help me now?
[_She pauses_.

_Gal_. By all my Joys, a lovely Woman ‘tis.

_Lau_. Help me, Deceit, Dissembling, all that’s Woman--
[_She starts and gazes on_ Gal. _pulling_ Silvio.

_Cor_. Sure I shou’d know that Face.--

_Lau_. Ah, look, my _Silvio_, is’t not he?--it is! That Smile, that Air, that Mien, that Bow is his: ’.is he, by all my Hopes, by all my Wishes.

_Gal_. He! yes, yes, I am a He, I thank my Stars, And never blest ‘em half so much for being so, As for the dear Variety of Woman.

_Cor_. Curse on her Charms, she’ll make him love in earnest.

_Lau_. It is my Brother; and Report was false.
[_Going towards him_.

_Gal_. How, her Brother! Gad, I’m sorry we are so near akin, with all my Soul; for I’m damnably pleas’d with her.

_Lau_. Ah, why do you shun my Arms? or are ye Air? And not to be enclos’d in human Twines-- Perhaps you are the Ghost of that dead Lord, That comes to whisper Vengeance to my Soul.

_Gal_. S’heart, a Ghost! This is an odd preparative to Love.
[_Aside_.

_Cor_, ‘Tis Laura, my Brother _Julio’s_ Mistress, and Sister to _Octavio_.

_Gal_. Death, Madam! do not scare away my Love with Tales of Ghosts, and Fancies of the Dead. I’ll give ye Proofs I’m living loving Man, as errant an amorous Mortal as Heart can wish--I hope she will not jilt me too. [_Aside_.

_Cor_. So! he’s at his common Proof for all Arguments; if she shou’d take him at his Word now, and she’ll be sure to do’t.

_Lau_. Amiable Stranger, pardon the Mistake, And charge it on a Passion for a Brother: Devotion was not more retir’d than I, Vestals or widow’d Matrons when they weep; Till by a fatal Chance I saw in you, The dear Resemblance of a murder’d Brother. [_Weeps_.

_Jul_. What the Devil can she mean by this? [_Aside_.

_Lau_. I durst not trust my Eyes, yet still I gaz’d, And that encreas’d my Faith you were my Brother: But since they err’d, and he indeed is dead, Oh, give me leave to pay you all that Love, That Tenderness and Passion that was his. [_Weeping_.

_Cor_. So, I knew she wou’d bring Matters about some way or other. Oh Mischief, Mischief, help me! S’life, I can be wicked enough when I have no use on’t! and now have, I’m as harmless as a Fool.

[_As Gal. _is earnestly talking to_ Lau. Julio _pulls him
by the Sleeve_.

_Lau_. Oh, save me, save me from the Murderer.

_Jul_. Hah!

_Gal_. A Murderer, where?

_Lau_. I faint, I die with horror of the Sight!

_Gal_. Hah--my Friend a Murderer! sure you mistake him, Madam; he saw not Rome till yesterday; an honest Youth, Madam, and one that knows his distance upon occasion!--S’life, how cam’st thou here?--prithee be gone and leave us.

_Jul_. Why, do you know this Lady, Sir?

_Gal_. Know her!--a--ay, ay,--Man--and all her Relations, she’s of Quality:--withdraw, withdraw--Madam--a--he is my Friend, and shall be civil.--

_Lau_. I have an easy Faith for all you say:--but yet however innocent he be, or dear to you, I beg he wou’d depart--he is so like my Brother’s Murderer, that one Look more wou’d kill me--

_Jul_. A Murderer! charge me with Cowardice, with Rapes or Treasons-- Gods, a Murderer!

_Cor_. A Devil on her, she has robb’d the Sex of all their Arts of Cunning.

_Gal_. Pox on’t, thou’rt rude; go, in good Manners go.

_Lau_. I do conjure ye to torture me no more: If you wou’d have me think you’re not that Murderer, Be gone, and leave your Friend to calm my Heart Into some kinder Thoughts.

_Gal_. Ay, prithee go, I’ll be sure to do thy Business for thee.

_Cor_. Yes, yes, you will not fail to do a friendly Part, no doubt--

_Jul_. ‘Tis but in vain to stay--I see she did mistake her Man last night, and ‘twas to Chance I am in debt for that good Fortune;--I will retire to shew my Obedience, Madam. [_Exit_. Jul. Gal. _going to the door with him_.

_Lau_. He’s gone, and left me Mistress of my Wish. Descend, ye little winged Gods of Love, Descend and hover round our Bower of Bliss; Play all in various Forms about the Youth, And empty all your Quivers at his Heart. [_Aside_. [Gal. _returns, she takes him by the hand_. --Advance, thou dearer to my Soul than Kindred, Thou more than Friend or Brother. Let meaner Souls base-born conceal the God; Love owns his Monarchy within my Heart, So Kings that deign to visit humble Roofs, Enter disguis’d, but in a noble Palace, Own their great Power, and shew themselves in Glory.

_Gal_. I am all Transport with this sudden Bliss, And want some kind Allay to fit my Soul for Recompence.

_Cor_. Yes, yes, my forward Friend, you shall have an Allay, if all my Art can do’t, to damp thee even to Disappointment.

_Gal_. My Soul’s all Wonder; now let us retire, And gaze till I have softened it to Love. [_Going out is met by_ Cor.

_Cor_. Madam!

_Lau_. More Interruption!--hah--
[_Turns_.

_Cor_. My Master, the young Count _Julio_--

_Lau. Julio_!

_Gal_. What of him? [_Aside_.

_Cor_. Being just now arriv’d at _Rome_--

_Lau_. Heavens, arriv’d! [_Aside_.

_Cor_. Sent me to beg the Honour of waiting on you.

_Lau_. Sure, Stranger, you mistake.--

_Cor_. If, Madam, you are _Laura Lucretia_.--

_Gal. Laura Lucretia_! by Heaven, the very Woman he’s to marry.
[_Aside_.

_Lau_. This would surprize a Virgin less resolv’d: But what have I to do with ought but Love? [_Aside_. --And can your Lord imagine this an Hour To make a ceremonious Visit in?

_Gal_. Riddles by Love! or is’t some Trick again? [_Aside_.

_Cor_. Madam, where Vows are past, the want of Ceremony may be pardon’d.

_Lau_. I do not use to have my Will disputed, Be gone, and let him know I’ll be obey’d.

_Cor_. S’life, she’ll out-wit me yet,-- [_Aside_. Madam, I see this Niceness is not general, --You can except some Lovers.

_Gal_. My pert young Confident, depart, and let your Master know he’ll find a better welcome from the fair vain Curtezan, _la Silvianetta_, where he has past the Night, and given his Vows.

_Lau_. Dearly devis’d, and I must take the hint.
[_Aside smiling_.

_Cor_. He knows me sure, and says all this to plague me. [_Aside_. My Lord, my Master with a Curtezan! he’s but just now arriv’d.

_Gal_. A pretty forward saucy lying Boy this; and may do well in time.-- Madam, believe him not, I saw his Master yesterday,--convers’d with him. --I know him, he’s my Friend;--’twas he that parted hence but now, he told me all his Passion for a Curtezan scarce half an hour since.

_Cor_. So!

_Lau_. I do not doubt it, Oh, how I love him for this seasonable Lye: --And can you think I’ll see a perjur’d Man, [_To_ Cor. Who gives my interest in him to another? --Do I not help ye out most artfully?-- [_Aside. Laughing to_ Gal.

_Cor_. I see they are resolv’d to out-face me.

_Gal_. Nay, vow’d to marry her.

_Lau_. Heavens, to marry her!

_Cor_. To be conquer’d at my own Weapon too!--Lying! ‘tis a hard case.--
[_Aside_.

_Gal_. Go, Boy, you may be gone; you have you Answer, Child, and may depart--Come, Madam, let us leave him.

_Cor_. Gone, no help! Death, I’ll quarrel with him,--nay, fight him,-- damn him,--rather than lose him thus.--Stay, Signior. [_Pulls him_.]--You call me Boy--but you may find your self mistaken, Sir,--And know--I’ve that about me may convince ye. [_Shewing his Sword_. --’Thas done some Execution.

_Gal_. Prithee, on whom or what? small Village Curs? The barking of a Mastiff wou’d unman thee. [_Offers to go_.

_Cor_. Hold--follow me from the Refuge of her Arms; As thou’rt a Man, I do conjure thee do’t:--I hope he will, I’ll venture beating for’t. [_Aside_.

_Gal_. Yes, my brisk little Rascal, I will a--a--

_Lau_. By all that’s good, you shall not stir from hence; ho, who waits there, _Antonio, Silvio, Gaspero_? [_Enter all_.] --take that fierce Youth, and bear him from my sight.

_Cor_. You shall not need; s’life, these rough Rogues will be too hard for me; I’ve one prevention left,--farewel.

_May’st thou supply her with as feeble Art,
As I should do, were I to play thy part_.

[_Goes out with the rest_.

_Gal_. He’s gone, now let’s redeem our blessed Minutes lost.

[_Go in_.

SCENE III. _Changes to the Street_.--Piazo d’.ispagnia.

_Enter_ Julio _alone_.

_Jul_. Now by this breaking Day-light I cou’d rave: I knew she mistook me last night, which made me so eager to improve my lucky Minutes. Sure, _Galliard_ is not the Man, I long to know the Mystery;--hah--who’s here? --_Fillamour!_

_Enter_ Fillamour _met by_ Marcella _in Man’s Clothes; they
pass by each other, cock and justle_.

_Mar_. I take it, you are he I look for, Sir.

_Fil_. My name is _Fillamour_.

_Mar_. Mine, _Julio Sebastiano Morosini_.

_Jul_. Hah, my Name, by Heaven! [_Aside_.

_Fil_. I doubt it not, since in that lovely Face I see the charming Image of _Marcella_.

_Jul_. Hah!

_Mar_. You might, e’er Travel ruffled me to Man. [_Aside_. --I shou’d return thy Praise whilst I survey thee, But that I came not here to compliment;--draw-- [_Draws_.

_Fil_. Why, cause thou’rt like _Marcella?_

_Mar_. That were sufficient reason for thy Hate, But mine’s because thou hast betray’d her basely. --She told me all the story of her Love, How well you meant, how honestly you swore, And with a thousand Tears imploy’d my Aid To break the Contract she was forc’d to make T’ _Octavio_, and give her to your Arms: I did, and brought you word of our Design, --I need not tell ye what returns you made; Let it suffice, my Sister was neglected, Neglected for a Curtezan,--a Whore; I watcht, and saw each Circumstance of Falshood.

_Jul_. Damnation! what means this?

_Fil_. I scorn to save my Life by Lyes or Flatteries; But credit me, the Visit that I made I durst have sworn had been to my _Marcella_; Her Face, her Eyes, her Beauty was the same, Only the business of her Language differ’d, And undeceiv’d my hope.

_Mar_. In vain thou think’st to flatter me to Faith,-- When thou’dst my Sister’s Letter in thy hand, which ended that dispute, Even then I saw with what regret you read it; What care you took to disobey it too-- The shivering Maid, half dead with fears and terrors of the Night, In vain expected a Relief from Love or thee. Draw, that I may return her the glad news I have reveng’d her.

_Jul_. Hold, much mistaken Youth; ‘tis I am _Julio_, Thou, _Fillamour_, know’st my name, know’st I arriv’d But yesterday at _Rome_, and heard the killing News Of both my Sisters Flights, _Marcella_ and _Cornelia_,-- And thou art some Imposture. [_To_ Marcella.

_Mar_. If this now shou’d be true, I were in a fine condition.--
[_Aside_.

_Fil_. Fled! _Marcella_ fled!

_Jul_. ‘Twas she I told thee yesterday was lost; But why art thou concern’d?--explain the Mystery.

_Fil_. I lov’d her more than Life; nay, even than Heaven; And dost thou question my concern for her? Say how, and why, and whither is she fled?

_Jul_. Oh, wou’d I knew, that I might kill her in her Lover’s Arms; Or if I found her innocent, restore her to _Octavio_.

_Fil_. To _Octavio_! and is my Friendship of so little worth, You cannot think I merit her?

_Jul_. This is some trick between ‘em; but I have sworn

Most solemnly, have sworn by Heaven and my Honour To resign her, and I will do’t or die-- Therefore declare quickly, declare where she is, Or I will leave thee dead upon the place. [_To_ Marcella.

_Mar_. So, Death or _Octavio_, a pretty hopeful Choice this!

_Fil_. Hold! by Heaven, you shall not touch a single hair, thus--will I guard the Secret in his bosom. [_Puts himself between ‘em, draws_.

_Jul_. ‘Tis plain thou’st injur’d me,--and to my Honour I’ll sacrifice my Friendship, follow me. [_Ex_. Jul. Fil.

_Enter_ Petro _and_ Cornelia.

_Mar_. Ah, _Petro_, fly, fly, swift and rescue him.--
[_Ex_. Pet. _with his Sword in his hand_.

_Cor_. Oh, have I found thee, fit for my purpose too? Come, haste along with me,--thou must present my Brother _Julio_ instantly, or I am lost, and my Project’s lost, and my Man’s lost, and all’s lost.

_Enter_ Petro.

_Pet_. _Victoria, Victoria_, your Cavalier’s the Conqueror; the other wounded in his Sword-hand, was easily disarmed.

_Mar_. Then let’s retire, if I am seen I’m lost;--_Petro_, stay here for the Cavalier, and conduct him to me to this house;--I must be speedy now.--

_Cor_. Remember this is _Julio_.
[_Pointing to_ Marcella.

_Pet_. I know your design, and warrant ye my part:--hah, _Octavio_ [_Exeunt_.

_Enter_ Octavio, Morosini _and_ Crapine.

_Oct_. Now, Cowardice, that everlasting Infamy, dwell ever on my face, that Men may point me out that hated Lover that saw his Mistress false, stood tamely by whilst she repeated Vows; nay, was so infamous, so dully tame, to hear her swear her Hatred and Aversion, yet still I calmly listen’d; though my Sword were ready, and did not cut his throat for’t.

_Mor_. I thought you’d said you’d fought.

_Oct_. Yes, I did rouze at last, and wak’d my Wrongs; But like an Ass, a patient Fool of Honour, I gave him friendly notice I wou’d kill him; And fought like Prizers, not as angry Rivals.

_Mor_. Why, that was handsome,--I love fair play; what wou’d you else have done?

_Oct_. Have fall’n upon him like a sudden Storm, [_Enter_ Pet. _and_ Fill.] quick unexpected in his height of Love:--see--see yonder; or I’m mistaken by this glimmering Day, or that is _Fillamour_ now entering at her door; ’.is he, by my Revenge--What say you, Sir?

_Mor_. By th’ Mass, I think ‘twas he--

[_Enter_ Julio.

_Oct_. _Julio_, I’ve caught the Wantons in their Toil, I have ‘em fast, thy Sister and her Lover. [_Embraces him_.

_Jul_. Eternal Shame light on me if they scape then.

_Oct_. Follow me quick, whilst we can get Admittance.

_Jul_. Where--here?

_Oct_. Here,--come all and see her Shame and my Revenge.

_Jul_. And are you not mistaken in the House?

_Oct_. Mistaken! I saw the Ravisher enter just now, thy Uncle saw it too; Oh, my excessive Joy! come, if I lye--say I’m a Dog, a Villain.

[_Exeunt as into the House_.

SCENE IV. _Changes to a Chamber_.

_Enter_ Sir Signal _a little groping_.

Sir _Sig_. There’s no finding my way out,--and now does Fear make me fancy this some inchanted Castle.--

_Enter_ Tick, _listening_.

_Tick_. Hah, an inchanted Castle!

Sir _Sig_. Belonging to a monstrous Giant; who having spirited away the King of _Tropicipopican’s_ Daughter, keeps her here inclos’d, and that I a wandring Knight am by fickle Fortune sent to her Deliverance. [Tick _listens_.

_Tick_. How’s that! spirited away the King of _Tropicipopican’s_ Daughter; bless me, what unlawful Wickedness is practis’d in this Romish Heathenish Country! [_Aside_.

Sir _Sig_. And yet the Devil of any Dwarf, Squire or Damsel have I met with yet,--wou’d I were cleanlily off this business--hah, Lights, as I live, and People coming this way!--bless me from the Giant!--Oh Lord, what shall I do!-- [_Falls on his Knees_.

_Tick_. I fear no Giants, having Justice on my Side; but Reputation makes me tender of my Person.--Hah--what’s this, a Curtain; I’ll wind my self in this, it may secure me. [_Winds himself in a Window-Curtain_.

Sir _Sig_.--They’re entering, what shall I do?--hah--here’s a Corner; defend me from a Chimney.

[_Creeps to the Corner of the Window, and feels a space
between Tick’s Legs and the Corner; creeps in, and
stands up just behind_ Tickletext. _Enter_ Gal. _leading_
Laura; Sab. _with Lights just after ‘em_; Jul. Oct.
Mor. _and_ Crap.

_Oct_. Just in the happy Minute!

_Gal_. I’ve sworn by every God, by every Power divine, to marry thee, and save thee from the Tyranny of a forc’d Contract.--Nay, Gad, if I lose a fine Wench for want of Oaths this bout, the Devil’s in me.

_Oct_. What think ye now, Sir?

_Jul_. Damnation on her, set my Rage at Liberty, That I may kill ‘em both.

[Mor. _holds him_.

_Mor_. I see no cause for that, she may be virtuous yet.

_Oct_. Do ye think as such to pass her off on me, Or that I’ll bear the Infamy of your Family? No, I scorn her now, but can revenge my Honour on a Rival.

_Mor_. Nay, then I’ll see fair Play,--turn and defend thy Life.
[_Goes to_ Gal. _who turns_.

_Jul_. Whilst I do Justice on the Prostitute:--hah-- Defend me, ‘tis the Woman that I love. [_He gazes, she runs to_ Gal.

_Lau. Octavio_!

_Oct_. _Laura!_ My Sister, perfidious shameful--
[_Offers to kill her_.

_Jul_. Hold, thy Sister this? that Sister I’m to marry.

_Lau_. Is this then _Julio_? and do all the Powers conspire to make me wretched?

_Oct_. May I be dumb for ever.

[_Holds his Sword down, and looks sadly;_ Jul. _holds_
Lau. _by one hand, pleads with_ Oct. _with the other_.

_Enter_ Fillamour _and_ Pet.

_Fil_.--Hah, _Galliard!_ in danger too.
[_Draws, steps to ‘em_, Mor. _puts between_.

_Oct_. _Fillamour_ here! how now, what’s the matter, Friend?
[_They talk whilst enter_ Marcella _and_ Cornelia.

_Cor_. Hah, new Broils; sure the Devil’s broke loose to night.--my Uncle, as I live! [Mor. _pleads between_ Fil. _and_ Octavio.

_Mar_. And _Octavio!_ Where shall we fly for Safety?

_Cor_. I’ll even trust to my Breeches, ‘tis too late to retreat;--s’life, here be our Cavaliers too; nay then, ne’er fear falling into the Enemies hands.

_Fil_. I, I fled with _Marcella!_ had I been blest with so much Love from her, I wou’d have boasted on’t i’th’ face of Heaven.

_Mor_. La ye, Sir. [_To_ Octavio.

_Fil_. The lovely Maid I own I have a Passion for; But by the Powers above, the Flame was sacred, And wou’d no more have past the Bounds of Honour Or Hospitality, than I wou’d basely murder; and were she free, I wou’d from all the World make her for ever mine.

_Mor_. Look ye, Sir, a plain case this.

_Gal_. He tells ye simple truth, Sir.

_Oct_. Was it not you this scarce past night I fought with here, in the House by dark, just when you had exchanged yours Vows with her?

_Lau_. Heavens! was it he? [_Aside_.

_Fil_. This Minute was the first I ever enter’d here.

_Jul_. ‘Twas I, Sir, was that interrupted Lover,--and this the Lady.

_Lau_. And must I yield at last? [_Aside_.

_Oct_. Wonders and Riddles!

_Gal_. And was this the _Silvianetta_, Sir, you told the Story of?
[_Slily_.

_Jul_. The same whom Inclination, Friends, and Destiny, conspire to make me blest with.

_Gal_. So many Disappointments in one night wou’d make a Man turn honest in spite of Nature.

[_Sir Sig. peeps from behind_.

Sir _Sig_. Some Comfort yet, that I am not the only Fool defeated. Ha! _Galllard_!

_Oct_. I’m satisfy’d (_To_ Fil.)--but what cou’d move you, Sir--[_to_ Gal.] to injure me, one of my Birth and Quality?

_Gal_. Faith, Sir, I never stand upon Ceremony when there’s a Woman in the case,--nor knew I ‘twas your Sister: Or if I had, I shou’d ha’ lik’d her ne’er the worse for that, had she been kind.

_Jul_. It is my Business to account with him, And I am satisfy’d he has not injur’d me, he is my Friend.

_Gal_. That’s frankly said; and uncompell’d, I swear she’s innocent.

_Oct_. If you’re convinc’d, I too am satisfy’d, And give her to you whilst that Faith continues. [_Gives him her_.

_Lau_. And must I, must I force my Heart to yield? And yet his generous Confidence obliges me. [_Aside_.

_Oct_. And here I vow by all the sacred Powers, [_kneels_] That punish Perjury, never to set my Heart On faithless Woman;--never to love nor marry; [_Rises_] Travel shall be my business--thou my Heir. [_To Julio_.

Sir _Sig_. So, poor soul, I’ll warrant he has been defeated too.

_Mar_. _Marcella_, Sir, will take ye at your Word.

_Fil_. _Marcella_!

_Mar_. Who owns with Blushes Truths shou’d be conceal’d, but to prevent more Mischief,--That I was yours, Sir, was against my Will, [_to_ Oct.] my Soul was _Fillamour’s_ e’er you claim’d a right in me; though I never saw or held discourse with him, but at an awful distance,--nor knew he of my Flight.

_Oct_. I do believe, and give thee back my Claim, I scorn the brutal part of Love; the noblest Body, where the Heart is wanting. [_They all talk aside_, Cornelia _comes up to Galliard_.

_Cor_. Why, how now, Cavalier, how like a discarded Favourite do you look now, who whilst your Authority lasted, laid about ye, domineer’d, huft and bluster’d, as if there had been no end on’t: now a Man may approach ye without terror--You see the Meat’s snatcht out of your Mouth, Sir, the Lady’s dispos’d on; whose Friends and Relations you were so well acquainted with.

_Gal_. Peace, Boy, I shall be angry else.--

_Cor_. Have you never a cast Mistress, that will take compassion on you: Faith, what think ye of the little Curtezan now?

_Gal_. As ill as e’er I did; what’s that to thee?

_Cor_. Much more than you’re aware on, Sir--and faith, to tell you Truth, I’m no Servant to Count _Julio_, but e’en a little mischievous Instrument she sent hither to prevent your making love to _Donna Laura_.

_Gal_. ‘Tis she herself.--how cou’d that Beauty hide itself so long from being known? [_Aside_.]--Malicious little Dog in a Manger, that wou’d neither eat, nor suffer the Hungry to feed themselves, what spiteful Devil cou’d move thee to treat a Lover thus? but I am pretty well reveng’d on ye.

_Cor_. On me!

_Gal_. You think I did not know those pretty Eyes, that lovely Mouth I have so often kist in cold imagination.

_Cor_. Softly, Tormentor.
[_They talk aside_.

_Mar_. In this disguise we parted from _Viterbo_, attended only by _Petro_ and _Philippa_: At Rome we took the Title and Habit of two _Curtezans_; both to shelter us from knowledge, and to oblige _Fillamour_ to visit us, which we believ’d he would in curiosity; and yesterday it so fell out as we desired.

_Fil_. Howe’er my Eyes might be imposed upon, you see my Heart was firm to its first Object; can you forget and pardon the mistake?

_Jul_. She shall, and with _Octavio’s_ and my Uncle’s leave,--thus make your Title good.-- [_Gives her to_ Fil.

_Oct_. ‘Tis vain to strive with Destiny. [_Gives her_.

_Mor_. With all my heart,--but where’s _Cornelia_ all this while?

_Gal_. Here’s the fair Stragler, Sir.
[_Leads her to Mor. he holds his Cane up at her_.

_Mor_. Why, thou Baggage, thou wicked Contriver of Mischief, what excuse had’st thou for running away? Thou had’st no Lover.

_Cor_. ‘Twas therefore, Sir, I went to find one; and if I am not mistaken in the mark, ‘tis this Cavalier I pitch upon for that use and purpose.

_Gal_. Gad, I thank ye for that,--I hope you’ll ask my leave first, I’m finely drawn in, i’faith--Have I been dreaming all this night of the possession of a new-gotten Mistress, to wake and find my self noos’d to a dull Wife in the morning?

_Fil_. Thou talk’st like a Man that never knew the Pleasures thou despisest; faith, try it, _Frank_, and thou wilt hate thy past loose way of living.

_Cor_. And to encourage a young Setter up, I do here promise to be the most Mistress-like Wife,--You know, Signior, I have learnt the trade, though I had not stock to practise; and will be as expensive, insolent, vain, extravagant and inconstant, as if you only had the keeping part, and another the amorous Assignations. What think ye, Sir?

_Fil_. Faith, she pleads well, and ought to carry the Cause.

_Gal_. She speaks Reason, and I’m resolv’d to trust good Nature:--Give me thy dear hand.--

[_They all join to give it him, he kisses it_.

_Mor_. And now ye are both sped, pray give me leave to ask ye a civil question; are you sure you have been honest? if you have, I know not by what miracle you have liv’d.

_Pet_. Oh, Sir, as for that, I had a small stock of Cash in the hands of a couple of _English_ Bankers, one Sir _Signal Buffoon_--

Sir _Sig_. Sir _Signal Buffoon_, what a pox, does he mean me trow?
[_Peeping_.

_Pet_.--And one Mr. _Tickletext_.

_Tick_. How was that? _certo_, my Name!

[_Peeps out, and both see each other; their faces being
close together, one at one side the Curtain, and t’other
at t’other_.

_Gal_. and _Fil_. Ha, ha, ha.

Sir _Sig_. And have I caught you, i’faith, Mr. Governour? Nay, ne’er put in your head for the matter, here’s none but Friends, mun.

_Gal_. How now, what have we here?

Sir _Sig_. Speak of the Devil, and he appears.
[_Pulls his Governour forward_.

_Tick_. I am undone,--but, good Sir _Signal_, do not cry Whore first, as the old Proverb says.

Sir _Sig_. And good Mr. Governour, as another old Proverb says, do not let the Kettle call the Pot black-arse!--

_Fil_. How came you hither, Gentlemen?

Sir _Sig_. Why faith, Sir, divining of a Wedding or two forward, I brought Mr. Chaplain to give you a cast of his Office, as the saying is.

_Fil_. What, without Book, Mr. _Tickletext_?

_Cor_. How now, sure you mistake, these are two Lovers of mine.

Sig _Sig_. How, Sir, your Lovers! we are none of those, Sir, we are _Englishmen_.

_Gal_. You mistake, Sir _Signal_, this is _Silvianetta_.

Sir _Sig_. and _Tick_. How! [_Aside_.

_Gal_. Here’s another Spark of your acquaintance,--do you know him?

_Tick_. How, _Barberacho_! nay, then all will out.--

_Gal_. Yes, and your Fencing and Civility-Master.

Sir _Sig_. Ay,--Why, what, was it you that pickt our Pockets then, and cheated us?

_Gal_. Most damnably,--but since ‘twas for the supply of two fair Ladies, all shall be restor’d again.

_Tick_. Some comfort that.

_Fil_. Come, let’s in and forgive all; ‘twas but one Night’s Intrigue, in which all were a little faulty.

Sir _Sig_. And Governour, pray let me have no more Domineering and Usurpation: but as we have hitherto been honest Brothers in Iniquity, so let’s wink hereafter at each others Frailties;

Since Love and Women easily betray Man,
From the grave Gown-man to the busy Lay-man.