The gentleman of Venice a tragi-comedie, presented at the private house in Salisbury Court by Her Majesties servants / written by James Shirley.

Author: Shirley, James, 1596-1666.1655

THE GENTLEMAN OF VENICE A Tragi-Comedie

Presented at the Private house in Salisbury Court by her Majesties Servants.

Written by JAMES SHIRLEY.

LONDON, Printed for Humphrey Moseley and are to be sold at his Shop at the Princes Armes in St. Pauls Church-yard. 1655.

[Page]

TO THE HONORABLE Sir THO. NIGHTINGALE Baronet.

SIR,

THE Poem that approacheth to kiss your hand, had once a singular grace and lustre from the Scene, when it enjoy'd the life of action; Nor did it want the best hands to applaud it in the Theater; But nothing of these is considerable, to the Honour it may receive now from your Confirmation and acceptance.

I must acknowledge many years have past, since it did Vagire in Cunis, and when it had gotten strength, and legs to walk, traveling without direction, it lost it self, till it was recovered after much inquisition, and now upon the first return home, hath made this fortunate addresse, and application to your Patronage; In which my ambition is satisfied.

I know this Nation hath been fruitfull in [Page] names of Eminent Honor. But in these times, there be more Lords then Noblemen, and while you are pleas'd to smile upon this piece, I most cheerfully throw my selfe, and it upon your Protection, whose single worth to me, is beyond all the boasted Greatnesse and voluminous titles of our age.

Be pleas'd to read, what is presented you, at an hour, you will dedicate to Recreation, and preserve the Author in your memory, whose highest desires are to make good the Character of

Sir,

The most humble among, those that honor you JAMES SHIRLEY

[Page]

The names with some small Characters of the Persons.

THE Duke of Venice.
Cornari a Gentleman of Venice of a great fortune, but having no Child, contrives to have an heir from his wife, and against the nature and custome of the Italian, indeeres an English gentleman to her affection and society.
Florelli the English Gentleman of a Noble extraction and person, much honoured for his parts, by which he gained much reputation in the Academies.
Malipiero Nephew to Cornari, a man of a violent spirit, and hated by his uncle, for his debaucheries.
Giovanni, (suppos'd Son of Roberto the Dukes Gardiner) whose noble mind could not bee supprest, in his low condition, and in love with Bellaura.
Thomazo, the supposed Son of the Duke, whom no precepts, nor education at Court, could form into honorable desires, or employments.
Courtiers of Honor.
- Marino
- Candiano
Roberto the Dukes Gardiner, an humorous jolly old man.
[Page]
companions of Malipiero
- Bernardo
- Marcello
Georgio, the Gardiners servant.
Bravos.
Attendants.
Souldiers.
Bellaura the Dukes Niece, whom Giovanni passionately affected.
Claudiana wife to Gornari, a Lady of excellent beauty, ingratiated by her husband to Florelli the english Gentleman.
Ursula wife to Roberto, a froward woman, and who much doted upon Thomazo her Nursechild.
Rosabella a Curtesan.

The Scene.

VENICE.

[Page]

THE GENTLEMAN OF VENICE.

Act. 1.

Enter Malipiero, whe knocks at a Doore, to him a Servant.

Mal.

WHere is my Uncle sirra?

Ser.

Not within.

Mal.

Come hither, tell me truth.

Ser.

Hee's gone abroad.

Mal.

He has commanded your officious rogueship.

To deny him to me.

[Mal. kicks him.]

Ser.

What do you mean sir?

Mal.

To speak with my Uncle sirrah, and these kicks

Shall fetch him hither.

Ser.

Help.

[He runns in]

Mal.

Your howling will

[Page 2]Be his kue to appear.

Enter Cornari.

Cor.

What insolence is this?

Mal.

No insolence: I did but correct your knave,

Because I would not lose my labour sir,

I came to speak w'ee.

Cor.

Shall I not be safe

Within my house? hence.

Mal.

I ha not done yet.

Cor.

You were best assault me too.

Mal.

I must borrow money,

And that some call a striking; but you are

My very loving Uncle, and do know

How necessary it is, your Nephew should not

Want for your honor.

Cor.

Hence; I disclaim,

And throw thee from my blood; thou art a bastard.

Mal.

Indeed you do lie Uncle, and 'tis love,

And reverence bids me say so, it would cost

Dear, should the proudest Gentleman of Venice

Have call'd my Mother whore, but you shall onely

By the disbourse of fifty Duccats take

My anger off, and I'le be still your Nephew,

And drink your health, and my good Aunts.

Cor.

Drink thy

Confusion.

Mal.

Heaven forbid your Heir should so

Forget himself, and lose the benefit

Of such a fair Estate as you have Uncle;

Shall I have Gold for present use?

Cor.

Not a Zechine.

Mal.

Consider but what Company I keep.

Cor.

Things that lie like Consumptions on their Family,

And will in time eat up their very name;

A knot of fooles and knaves.

Mal.

[Page 3]

Take heed, be temperate,

A hundred Duccats else wil hadly satisfie,

The Dukes own Son Signior Thomazo wo'not

Blush to be drunk sir in my company.

Cor.

He is corrupted

Amongst diseases like thy self, become

His Fathers shame and sorrow, and hath no

Inheritance of his noble nature.

Mal.

You

Were best call him bastard too, the money

I modestly demanded, and that quickly,

And quietly, before I talk aloud,

I may be heard to'th Palace else.

Cor.

Thou heard? i'le tel thee,

Were treason talk'd, I believe thy testimony

Would hold no credit against the hangman, but

I lose too pretious time in dialogue with thee,

To be short therefore know.—

Mal.

Very well, to'th point.

Cor.

I will consume all my estate my self.

Mal.

You do not know the waies without instruction.

Cor.

I will be instructed then.

Mal.

I doe like that,

Let's joyn societies, and ile be satisfied;

Let me have part in the consuming of

The mony, that does mould for want of Sun-beams

Within your musty Coffers, I'le release you.

You have no swaggering face; but I can teach

Your very lookes to make a noyse, and if

You cannot drink or game, wee'l ha' devices;

You may have whores, I that but live in hope

After your death, keep twelve in pension,

They wear my Livery, I'le resigne the Leverets,

I can ha more, I have a list of all

The Curtezans in Venice, which shall tumble

And keep their bugle bowes for thee dear Uncle,

[Page 4]Wee'l teach thee a thousand waies.

Cor.

It shannot need,

I shall take other courses with my wealth,

And none of you shall share in't. I have a humour

To turn my mony into Hospitalls;

Your riots come not thither.

Mal.

But we may,

Drink, and diseases are the waies to that too,

But will you turn a Master of this Colledge

You talk of Uncle? this same Hospitall?

And lay out mony to buy wooden leggs

For crippl'd men of War, invite to your cost

Men that have lost their noses in hot service?

Live and converse with roten bawdes & bonesetters,

Provide Pensions for surgery, and hard words

That eat like Corrosives, and more afflict

The patient? but you'l save charges, I consider

My Aunt, your wife—

Cor.

How darst thou mention her

With thy foul breath.

Mal.

May be excellent at composing

Of Med'cines for corrupted lungs, impostumes

At making plaisters, dyet drinks, and in charity

Will be a great friend to the pox.

Cor.

Thou villain.

Mal.

And you'l be famous by'c, I may in time

As I said before, if lust, and wine assist me,

Grow unsound too, and be one of her patients;

And have an office after in her houshold

To prepare lint, and fearcloths, empty veines,

And be controller of the Crutches, oh

The world would praise the new foundation

Of such a Pest house, and the poor soules drink

Your health at every Festivall in hot porredge.

Cor.

Art thou of kin to me?

Mal.

I think I am,

[Page 5]As near as your brothers eldest Son, who had

No competent estate from his own parents.

And for that reason by wise nature was

Ordain'd to be your heir that have enough Uncle.

The fates must be obeyed, and while your land

Is fastned to my name for want of males,

Which I do hope, if my Aunt hold her barrennesse

You will never bang out of her Sheaf, I may

Be confident to write my self your Nephew.

Cor.

Thou hast no seeds of goodness in thee, but

I may find waies to cross your hopefull interest.

Mal.

You'l find no seeds in my Aunts parslybed

I hope, and then I'm safe, but take your course,

Supply me for the present, for your honour—

The Duccats come.

Cor.

You are cosened.

Mal.

As you would not

Have me pull down this house, when you are dead

And build a stewes, the Duccats come.

Cor.

Thou coward!

Mal.

Because I do not cut your throat, that were

The way to disinherit my self queintly.

Cor.

Canst thou not steal? & so deserve a hanging?

Mal.

Yes I can, and am often tempted, but I wo'not

Do you that mighty wrong, to let what you have

So long, and with so little conscience gathered,

Be lost in confiscation by my fellony.

I know a way worth ten on't; yet thus much

I'le bind it with an oath, when I turn thief,

Your Gold shall be the first I will make bold with,

In the mean time lend me the trifling Duccats,

And do not trouble me.

Cor.

Not a Muccinigo

To save thee from the Gallies.

Mal.

No? the Gallies!

[Page 6]Must I shift still? remember, and die shortly

I'le live, I will, and `rather then not be

Reveng'd on thy estate, I will eat roots

Course ones I mean, love, and undoe an herbwife

With eating up her sallets, live and lap

Onely in barly water, think on't yet,

I am now for wine, you know not what that heat

May do, the injury being so fresh, I may

Return, and you'l repent.

Cor.

'Tis more then I

Can hope of thee, go to your rabble sir.

Mal.

You a Gentleman of Venice? but remember,

A pox 'a your wealth, I will do something

To deserve the halter, that I may disgrace

The house I came on, and at my Execution

Make such a speech, as at the report, thou shalt

Turn desperate, and with the remnant of

My Cord go hang thy self, and that way forfeit

All thy Estate when I am dead, i'le do

Or this, or something worse to be reveng'd.

Exit. Mal.

Enter Servant.

Cor.

Hee's lost, this doth new fire my resolution;

See if your Mistris be yet ready sirra,

Say I expect her.

Exit Servant.

My blood is almost in a fever with

My passion, but Claudiana may cure all,

Whom I have wrought with importunity

To be spectator at the exercise

This day 'ith Academy, here she comes,

Enter Claudiana.

Art ready?

Clau.

Ever to obey you sir,

But if you would consider yet, you may

Be kind, and let me stay, I dare not think

You are less careful of my honor, but

[Page 7]You gave once Command with my consent too,

Not to be seen too much abroad.

Cor.

I did.

I must confesse Claudiana, I had thoughts

And scruples which thy innocence hath clear'd,

And though our nice Italian every where

Impose severely on their wives; I should

Be unjust to make thee still a prisoner to

Thy melancholly Chamber, take the aire,

'Tis for thy health, and while I wait upon thee,

Thou art above the tongue, and wound of scandall.

Clau.

I know your presence takes off all dishonor,

But—

Cor.

No more, I charge thee by thy love,

And to convince all arguments against it;

I have provided so, thou shalt observe

Unseen the bold contentions of art,

And action.

Clau.

I'm not well.

Cor.

I shall be angry

If my desires be plai'd withall, pretend not

With purpose to delude me, I have blessings

Stor'd in thy health, but if you practise any

Infirmity to cross my will, that aimes

At the security of thy health and honour—

Clau.

Sir, you shall steere me.

Cor.

This becomes Claudiana,

I will think thee in a kiss, prepare

The Gundelo.

Ser.

It waites

[Within]

Cor.

And I on thee,

The treasure of my eyes, and heart.

Exeunt.

Enter Roberto, Ursula, Georgio.

Rob.

Where is my son Giovanni sirra?

Geo.

Hee went two hours agoe to the A ademy,

To see the exercise to day.

Urs.

[Page 8]

How's that?

What business has he there, pray 'mongst Gentlemen?

He does presume too much.

Ro.

Patience good Ursula.

Urs.

You give him to much reine; 'twould become him

To follow his profession, and not look after

Those gentlemanly sports.

Ro.

No tempest wife,

No thundring Ursula, am not I the Dukes

Chief Gardiner, ha? and shall I make my Son

A drudg; confine him here to be an earth-worm,

Live like a mole, or make it his last blessing

To plant, and order quickset; let him walk,

And see the fashions.

Urs.

He has cost you sweetly

To bring him up, what use had he of learning?

What benefit, but to endanger us,

And with his 'poring upon books at midnight,

To set the house on fire, let him know how

To rule a spade, as you ha done.

Ro.

He does so,

And knowes how to inoculate my Ursula,

My nimble tongue, no more: because he read

The story of Zantippe to'ther night

That could out-talk a drum, and sound a point

Of War to her husband honest Socrates,

You took a pet; he shall abroad sometimes

And read and write till his head ake. Go to

Urs.

So, so, the Dukes Garden shall be then

Well look't to, he deserves a Pension,

For reading Amadis de gaule, and Guzman,

And Don Quixot, but i'le read him a lecture.

Ro.

You will? offer but to bark at him,

And I will send him to the University

To anger thee, nay he shall learn to fence too,

And fight with thee, at twenty severall weapons

[Page 9]Except thy two edged tongue, a little thing

Would make me entertain a dancing master,

Peace, or I will destroy thy Kitchin Ursula,

Disorder all thy trinkets, and in stead

Of brasse and pewter, hang up Violl de Gambos,

I'le set an Organ up at thy beds head,

And he shall play upon't: what tyrannicall

To thy own flesh and blood, to Giovanni?

My heir, my onely boy? fetch me a taylor,

He shall have new cloaths, and no more be warm

With the reversion of your peticoates,

Do not provoke me, what imperious?

Get you in, or I will swinge you, go, and weed.

Vrs.

Now for vexation could I cry my heart out.

Exit.

Ro.

Sirra stay you, and is Giovanni gone

To'th' Academy saist?

Geo.

Yes sir, they say,

There is an English Gentleman, that winns

The Garland from 'em all at every exercise,

One of the Court told my young master on't,

(As he enquired of every Gentleman

Comes in to'th' Garden, what's the newes abroad)

Ro.

And does he not tell thee tales & dainty stories

Sometimes?

Geo.

Oh, of Tamberlain, and the great Turk, & all

His Concubines, he knowes 'em to a hair,

He is more perfect in the Chronicles

Then I am in my prayers.

Ro.

I do believ't

Geo.

And talkes a battell, as he were among 'em,

He tickles all your turbants, and in a rage,

Wishes he had the cutting of their Cabbages

To shew what house he came on.

Ro.

Ha my boy!

Geo.

Oh sir he has a pestilent memory,

[Page 10]He told me to'ther day there was another

World in the Moon, and that the world we live in

Shines like to that, to people that live there,

How many miles it is about the Earth,

How many to the starrs, I fear he will

Be mad, if he read much, 'tis just like ravening,

And such hard words would choak me to repeat 'em.

Ro.

He never tells me this.

Geo.

We are familiar.

You are his Father, and he dares not lie

To you, to me he may talk any thing,

He knowes my understanding to an inch.

Would you would speak to him though, to take a little

More paines, 'tis I do all the droile, the durtwork:

When I am digging; he is cutting Unicornes,

And Lyons in some hedge, or else devising

New knots upon the ground, drawing out Growns

And the Dukes armes, Castles and Cannons in 'em,

Here Gallies, there a Ship giving a broad side,

Here out of turfe he carves a Senatour

With all his robes, making a speech to Time

That grows hard by, and twenty curiosities,

I think he meanes to embroider all the Garden

Shortly, but I do all the course-worke; here's

My Mistris agen.

Enter Vrsula.

Ro.

What, is the storm laid?

Vrs.

I must be patient: your sonne's not come yet

Ro.

Why now thou art Vrsa Maior, love thy whelp,

And we are friends.

Vrs.

Was not the Dukes Son here?

I fear he is sick, that I have not seen him

These two daies in the Garden.

Geo.

[Page 11]

There's a Gentleman.

Vrs.

I, there's a Gentleman indeed.

I dream't on him last night, pray heaven he be

In health, I prethee make enquiry,

There's a Gentleman, and you talk of a Gentleman.

Geo.

Signior Thomazo?

Ro.

Where is hee?

Geo.

I know not, but my mistris would send me

To know the state of his body.

Ro.

Why, how now Vrsula? sirra about you businesse,

And spare that inquisition, what hath

Your impudence to do with the Dukes Son?

Vrs.

Have not I to do that gave him suck?

I hope I was his nurse, and it becomes me

To enquire of his health, he is the very pearl

Of curtesie, not proud nor coy I warrant you,

But gentle as my Sunday muffe.

Ro.

Your conny skinne.

Vrs.

I am the better when I look upon him,

There' a gentleman, and you talk of a gentleman,

So compleat, so affable, a scholar too,

If I could understand him, prethee sweet heart,

Get me with child that I may long a little.

Ro.

For a piece of the Dukes Son?

Vrs.

I shall nere forget how pretily

He took the niple, and would play, and prattle himself

A sleep I warrant you, but hee's now a man,

A great man, and he remembers me still:

There's a gentleman, and you talk of a gentleman.

Ro.

The woman dotes.

Exit.

Enter Marino meeting Candiano a Senatour.

Mar.

Whither so fast?

Can.

To the Academy.

Ma.

Spare

[Page 12]Your hast, all's done.

Can.

Who has the vote to day?

Mar.

The English Gentleman is still victorious▪

All praises flow upon him, he ha's depos'd

Our City, which hath now resign'd her Lawrell.

Enter Florelli and other gentlemen.

Can.

Is not this hee?

Mar.

The same, in's face the promise

Of a most noble nature.

Flo.

Gentlemen,

Pray give me leave, to understand your language,

For this, so much above me, scarce will be,

(When I'm lesse ignorant), worth my thanks,

1. Gent.

This is

We know pretence of modesty, we must

Congratulate yourtriumph.

Flo.

For this time

I'le be content your praises shall abuse me.

Who are these?

Mar.

Friends and Honorers of your worth.

Flo.

I see that courtesie is native here,

All the reward I can return, must be

To speak abroad the Noblenesse of Venice

For so much grace to an unworthy stranger.

Can.

The Duke himselfe.

Enter Duke, Thomazo, Senators, Malipiero.

Du.

We must resolve to send new forces

And speedily, the flame will else endanger

Venice it self.

Sen.

This town lost will encourage

The insulting Genowese.

Du.

Thomazo!

Tho.

Sir.

Du.

I look when you will ask me leave to traile

A pike, and purchase honor in these Warrs.

Tho.

I have not been well since I was last

[Page 13]Let blood, and therefore if you please, I would

Be excus'd till the next warrs, and then have at 'em▪

By that time I shall be a better rapier man.

Du.

This fool is the dishonor of my blood,

He declines all that's noble, and obeyes

A base and vulgar appetite, he dwells

Like a disease within my name, but 'tis

Heavens punishment, what are they?

Mari.

All strangers, but among them one

In whom you may read something worth your grace,

An English Gentleman.

Du.

He, to whom fame

Gives the honor of our exercises, nature

With such an active heat might have built up

My Son, but hee's curst to live a shadow,

Marino fetches Florelli to kiss the Dukes hand.

Welcome sir to Venice.

Tho.

He shall kiss my hand too, I am the Dukes Son.

Flo.

You honor me.

Du.

Thomazo give that gentleman

A box 'oth ear.

Tho.

He wo'not take it kindly,

He is one—

Du.

Will strike agen, is not that it?

Tho.

I would not use a stranger so discourteously, or else—

Du.

Embrace him then, and make your self worthy of

His friendship and converse, you'l gain more honor

Then the empty title of your birth can bring yee:

But to the great affair; the War, your Counsells.

Exeunt Duke, Senatour and Marino.

Tho.

My father bids me embrace you sir.

Flo.

I shall

Be proud when I can do you any service.

Tho.

Gentlemen, pray know me every one▪

[Page 14]I am the Dukes Son, my name's Signior Thomazo.

Gent.

You do us too great honor.

Mal.

We had no object worth our envy sir

Till you arriv'd, you have at once dishonored,

And made our Venice fortunate.

Tho.

Malipiero, let's bid 'em welcome in rich wine.

Mal.

I attend you sir.

This fellow must not live to boast his trophees,

He may supplant me too, if he converse

Too freely with Thomazo, whose course wit

Is all the stock I live by, please you gentlemen

To walk.

Gent.

We follow.

Tho.

I would not have the way

But that you are a stranger.

Gen.

it becomes you.

Ex. Omnes.

Act. 2.

Enter Cornari and Claudiana, as in the Duke Garden.

Cla.

II have obey'd you sir.

Cor.

Thou hast done well

My Claudiana, very well, who dare

Traduce thee for't? am I not carefull of thee?

I prethee give me thy opinion

Who deserv'd best of all the gentlemen?

Cla.

I have not art enough to judge.

Cor.

But thou

Hast fancie, and a liberall thought, that may

Bestow thy praise on some or other, tell me

If thou hadst been to give the garland, prethee

[Page 15]Whose head should wear it? though wee ha not judgement

To examine, and prepare our justice; yet

Where men contend for any victory,

Affection may dispose us, and by some

Secret in nature we do still incline

To one, and guard him with our wishes.

Cla.

I hope

This is but mirth.

Cor.

By my regard to thy

Fair honor, nothing else, it shannot rise

To a dispute, who ha's the vote to day

Of all the gentlemen? I must know.

Cla.

They are

To me indifferent.

Cor.

So is my question, but I must have more,

It cannot be but some man must deserve

More print and poize in thy opinion,

Speak as thou lov'st me Claudiana.

Cla.

Sir,

Your inquisition is not without change

Of lookes upon me, and those smiles you ask with,

Are not your own I fear.

Cor.

Nay, then you dally,

And undoe that obedience, I so much

Commended.

Cla.

Dear Cornari.

Cor.

Yet agen?

The man, tell me the man?

Cla.

What man?

Cor.

The gentleman

That best deserves in thy opinion.

I shall be angry: what deny to give me

This triviall satisfaction? the expence

Of a little breath? why do you tremble so?

Cla.

Alas, I know not what to answer, this

[Page 16]Must needs engender fears in my cold bosome,

That my poor honor is betrai'd, and I

Stand in your thoughts suspected of some guilt

I never understood, if the report

Of malice have abus'd me to your ear,

(For by your self I am all innocent)

Cor.

What do you mean Claudiana?

Cla.

Sir, your question

Hath frighted me, 'tis strange, and killing to

My tender apprehension.

Cor.

Y'are a fool

To be thus troubled, and but that I know

The purity of thy faith to me, this language

Would make me jealous, 'tis an ill dress't passion,

And palenesse, that becomes not Claudiana

To wear upon her modest cheek, I see

Thy heart sick in thy eyes, be wise, and cure it,

My question was but mirth, without the sence

Of the least scruple in my self, or meaning

To discompose one chearfull look.

Cla.

Your pardon.

Cor.

And you as safely might have answered me.

As I had casually ask't the time o'th day;

What dressing you delight in, or what gown

You most affect to wear.

Cla.

Once more I ask you pardon, you restore me,

And I am now secur'd by your clear goodnesse,

To give my weak opinion—

Cor.

Of the man

That did appear in thy thoughts to deserve

Most honor.

Cla.

You'l excuse a womans verdict,

My voice is for the stranger sir.

Cor.

Why so!

You like him best; what horror was in this

Poor question now? you mean the English man?

Cla

[Page 17]

The same, most gracefull in his parts & person.

Cor.

'Tis well, I'me satisfied, and we both meet

In one opinion too, he is indeed

The bravest Cavalier, what hurt's in all

This now? I see you can distinguish, wert thou

A virgin Claudiana, thou would'st find

Gentle and easie thoughts to entertain

So promising a servant; I should be

Taken with him my self, were I a Lady,

And lov'd a man.

Cla.

How's this? my feares return.

Enter Bellaura and Georgio.

Cor.

Madam Bellaura the Dukes charge is entred

The Garden, let's choose another walk.

Ex.

Bel.

Why you are conceited sirra, does wit

Grow in this Garden?

Ge.

Yea, Madam while I am in't, I am a slip

My self.

Bel.

Of Rosemary or time?

Ge.

Of wit sweet Madam.

Bel.

'Tis pitty, but thou shouldst be kept with watering,

Ge.

There's wit in every Flower, if you can gather it.

Bel.

I am of thy mind.

But what's the wit prethee of yonder tulip?

Ge.

You may read there the wit of a young Courtier.

Bel.

What's that?

Ge.

Pride, and shew of colours, a fair promising,

Deare when 'tis bought, and quickly comes to nothing.

Bel.

The wit of that rose?

Ge.

If you attempt

Madam to pluck a rose, I shall find a moral in't.

Bel.

No Country wit?

Ge.

That growes with pot-herbes, and poor roots, which here

Would be accounted weeds, course things of profit,

[Page 18]Whose end is kitchin Physick, and sound health;

Two things not now in fashion.

Bel.

Your wit dances.

Where learn't you all these moralls?

Geo.

I but glean

From my young master Giovanni Madam,

Hee'l run division upon every flower,

He ha's a wit able to kill the weeds,

And ripen all the fruit in the Dukes Orchard.

Bel.

Where is Giovanni?

Geo.

He went betimes to'th Academy,

He is at all the exercises, we

Shall ha such newes when he comes home.

Bel.

Why does

Your master (being rich) suffer his son

To work i'th garden?

Geo.

My master? hee's an honest mortall man Madam,

It is my mistriss, that commands him to't,

A shrow, and loves him not, but 'tis no matter;

I ha' the better company, hee's here.

Enter Giovanni.

I'le leave him to you Madam, I must now

Water my plants.

Exit.

Bel.

Why? how now Giovanni, you frequent I hear

The Academies.

Gio.

When I can dispence

Madam, with time, and these employments, I

Intrude a glad spectator at those schooles

Of wit and action, which although I cannot

Reach, I am willing to admire, and look at

With pitty of my self lost here in darknesse.

Bel.

By this expression I may conceive

How much you have improv'd, & gain'd a language

Courtly, and modest.

Gio.

Madam, you are pleas'd

To make my uneven frame of words your mirth.

[Page 19]I professe nothing but an humble ignorance,

And I repent not, if by any way

(My duty and manners safe) it may delight you.

Bel.

Indeed Giovanni I am pleas'd, but not

With your suspition, that my praises are

Other then what become my ingenuous meaning,

For if I understand, I like your language,

But with it I commend your modest spirit.

Gio.

It is an honour Madam, much above

My youths ambition, but if I possesse

A part of any knowledge you have dain'd

To allow, it owes it self unto this school.

Bel.

What school?

Gio.

This Garden Madam, 'tis my Academy,

Where gentlemen, and Ladies (as your self,

The first and fairest, durst I call you mistris,)

Enrich my eare, and observation

With harmony of language, which at best

I can but coldly imitate.

Bel.

Still more courtly!

Why how now Giovanni, you will be

Professor shortly in the art of complement,

You were best quit the Garden, & turn Courtier.

Gio.

Madam, I think upon the Court with reverence,

My fate, is to adore it afar off,

It is a glorious Landschape, which I look at

As some men with narrow optick glasses

Behold the starrs, and wonder at their vast

(Though unknown) habitable worlds of brightness:

But were my eye a nearer judge, and I

Admitted to a clearer knowledge Madam

Of the Court life, there I might find the truth

Of mans best Ideas, and enjoy the happinesse,

Now onely mine by naked speculation,

I think how there I should throw off my dust

[Page 20]And rise a new Creation.

Bel.

The Court

Is much beholding to you Giovanni.

Gio.

It is a duty Madam I owe truth.

Bel.

A truth in supposition all this while.

Gio.

I should be sad if any experience should

Betray an error in my faith, and yet

So soft and innocent a trespasse, Madam,

Might well expect a pardon.

Bel.

Some that have

Freely enjoy'd the pleasures, or what else

You so advance in Court, have at the last

Been weary, and accus'd their gay Condition,

Nay, chang'd their state for such an humble life

As you professe, a gardiner.

Geo.

I despise not

What I was born to Madam, but I should

Imagine the disease lay in the mind,

Not in the Courtier, that would throw away

So spacious a blessing to be servile.

Bel.

You know not Giovanni your own happiness,

Nor the Court sinnes, the pride and surfeits there

Come not within your circle, there are few

Pursue those noble tracts your fancy aims at,

It is a dangerous Sea to launch into,

Both shelves and rockes you see not, I, & mermaids.

Gio.

What are they Madam?

Bel.

You have heard of Mermaides.

Gio.

You mean not women I hope Madam?

Bel.

Yes.

Gio.

Oh do not by so hard an application

Increase the Poets torment, that first made

That fabulous story to disgrace your sex,

Y'are firm, and the fair seal of the great maker,

A print next that of Angels.

Bel.

We are bound t'ee

[Page 21]If our cause want a flourish, you have art

To make us shew fair.

Gio.

And you are so,

'Tis malice dares traduce you; or blind ignorance

That throws her strains, which fall off from your figures,

For those which weaker understandings cal

Your spots, are ermines, and can such as these

Darlings of heaven, and nature, women, shoot

At Court an influence like unlucky planets?

They cannot sure, why you live Madam there,

That are enough to prove all praise, a truth,

And by a sweet example make 'em all

Such as you are objects, of love and wonder,

Oh then how bles't are they that live at Court,

With freedome to converse with so much virtue;

As your fair sex embraceth.

Enter Ursula.

Bel.

Here's your mother.

Gio.

Shee was too hasty.

Vrs.

Madam I hope you'l pardon my sons rudeness

To hold discourse with your Ladiship.

Bel.

'Tis a courtesie,

And he talkes well to passe away the time,

Exceeding well, but I must to my Guardian

The Duke—

Exit.

Vrs.

Happinesse attend your Ladiship.

Now sir what are you thinking of?

Gio.

Your pardon, nothing.

Vrs.

Nay stay, I must talk with you my self,

But first what talk had you with my Lady?

Gio.

She was pleas'd to ask some questions.

Vrs.

What were they?

Gio.

I ha' forgot.

Vrs.

You ha' forgot y'are a leud

And sawcy boy, go to, your father spoiles you;

[Page 22]Enter Roberto.

Vrs.

But if you use me sirra 'oth this fashion

I'le break your pate, I will, the Dukes owne sonne

(My blessing upon him) would not answer me

With I ha' forgot, I warrant you, but you—

Ro.

Why, how now Vrsula, what? perpetuall clamours?

Vrs.

Oh here's your stickler.

Gio.

Nothing unkind to me, she was angry

With your servant Georgio, and threatned to break

His head, away—

Geo.

My head? come heeles.—

Exit.

Ro.

Was it but so? she shall, she shall do that,

With all my heart, and I will break it too.

Vrs.

Nay, then I will be friends with him.

Ro.

Where's the knave?

Vrs.

I wo'not be compell'd to break his head,

And you were twenty husbands; fare you wel.

Ro.

'Tis such a wasp, but she shannot wrong thee.

Gio.

I know she wo'not sir, she is my mother,

She comes agen.

Enter Thomazo, Malipiero, Barnardo and Marcello.

Vrs.

My heart does leap to see you.

Ro.

The Dukes son, and a troop of gallants, but

I alwaies have sore eyes to see one there,

That Signior Malipiero, he does owe me

Already forty Crownes, and I forgive him.

Mal.

Signior Roberto, remember that I owe

You forty Crowns.

Ro.

Pray, do you forget 'em.

Mal.

I never pay till it come to a hundred.

Ro.

Never pay! it is no matter Signior.

I were best be gone before he borrow more,

It is a trick he nses to put on

With his rich clothes, I'le vanish.

Exit.

Mal.

Strange this English man appears not?

Vrs.

[Page 23]

I was afraid you had been sick my Lord.

Tho.

I was never sick in my life, but when

I had a feaver, or some other infirmity.

I'le call thee nurse stil. Giovanni.

Gio.

Sir.

Tho.

Thou lookest like a changling.

Gio.

The more's my misfortune.

You are the Dukes son.

Exit.

Tho.

Who can help it? nurse,

Vrs.

He was never courteous to women.

Here's a gentleman, and they talk of a gentleman,

Now could I weep for joy. I must take my leave sir.

Tho.

I must make bold with my nurse.

Vrs.

Blessings upon thy heart, how sweetly he kisses.

Here was a touch for a Lady.

Exit.

Tho.

Go thy waies,

An admirable twanging lip, pitty thou art

A thought too old: ha wagtaile!

Ber.

Does he come alone?

Mal.

Alone, be you resolute

When you see me draw, shoot all your points

Into his heart.

Ber.

Be confident.

Mar.

Unlesse

He be steel-proof, he shannot boast abroad

Much victory in Venice.

Enter Florelli, and Giovanni.

Gio.

Signior Thomazo sir, is there.

Flo.

I thank you.

Gio.

You pay too much sir for no service.

Tho.

Here he is.

We were wagering thou wouldst not keepe thy promise.

Flo.

I durst not make that forfeit of your grace,

I most consult my own, when I am carefull

To wait upon your honor.

Mal.

You are noble.

Flo.

[Page 24]

Your humble servant gentlemen.

Tho.

Where didst supp?

Flo.

I was not willing to engage my self

Abroad, lest I might trespasse on your patience.

Tho.

What shall's do this evening?

Mal.

Walk a turn,

And then to a bona roba.

Ber.

A match.

Tho.

Giovanni!

Thy spade, and hold my cloak.

Mal.

What's the device?

Tho.

I have 'great mind to dig now, do'st think I cannot

Handle a spade, i'le make a bed with my Gentlemen now

For a hundred Duccats.

Mal.

'Tis a base employment,

Fit for such a drudge as Giovanni.

Gio.

Sir!

Mal.

A drudge? I said, dee scorne your little dunghill breed?

Gio.

This is not noble.

Mal.

How mole-catcher?

Flo.

Forbear he is not arm'd.

Mal.

You were best be his champion.

Tho.

Are you good at that?

I do not love to wear my doublet pink'd.

Exit.

Gio.

Three against one?

Giovanni recovers a sword, having first us'd his spade to side with the Englishman: Bernardo having lost his weapon flies.

Mal.

Hold.

Gio.

I am no drudg you'l sind

To be commanded sir, you painted flies,

And onely fit for troutes.

Flo.

Let's give 'em play, and breath.

Mal.

Lost our advantage? is Thomazo fled?

Mar.

And Bernardo, we were best retire, that Gardiner

Will stick me into ground, else for a plant.

Exit.

Mal.

[Page 25]

Expect wee'l be reveng'd.

Exit.

Gio.

Let's prevent 'm.

Flo.

They are not worth it Giovanni, so

I heard you nam'd.

Gio.

My name is Giovanni.

Flo.

Thou hast reliev'd, and sav'd my life, I find

Their base conspiracie, what shall I pay

Thy forward rescue?

Gio.

'Tis but what I owe

To justice, with the expence of blood and life

To prevent treachery, reward I have

Receiv'd i'th act, if I have done you service.

But 'twas your innocence that made such hast

To your own valour, not my sword preserv'd you.

I am young, and never taught to fight.

Flo.

I prethee

Accept this trifle, buy a sword, and wear it,

Thou hast deserv'd to thrive a nobler way

Then thy condition shewes.

Gio.

Though some would call

This bounty, urge it not to my disgrace,

I scorn to sell the motion of my arme!

I fear you are not safe yet, there may be

Danger in following them, and it grows dark.

Have patience while I fetch a key, that shall

Befriend you with a private way.

Exit.

Flo.

Th'art noble,

Though I am carelesse where the termes of honor

Engage my life, 'tis wisdome not to lose it

Upon their base revenge, but I must study

Some other payment for this young mans courage.

How ere his body suffer in a cloud,

His spirit's not obscure, but brave, and active.

Enter Cornari and Brano's arm'd.

Cor.

If my intelligence faile not, he must be

Here still. This evening hath put on a Vizard

[Page 26]To conspire with me, there he walkes, surprize him.

They seize upon him, bind his armes and feet, and blind him with a bagg.

Flo.

Villaines, Cowards, Slaves, my sword.

Bra.

If you be lowd, wee'l strange you.

Cor.

Dispatch.

Bra.

We ha done sir, is he for the river now?

Cor.

No, follow me.

Exeunt.

Enter Giovanni.

Gio.

These shew like officers,

Alas hee's apprehended on their base

Complaint, I cannot help; thy cause and innocence

Must now befriend thee! base world! yet I may

Injure, the parts abroad; 'tis onely Venice

Is sick with these distempers, then▪ i'le leave it,

And instantly pursue some other fate

I'th warrs, it may cure something too within me,

That is deny'd all remedy at home,

Some bodies for their Physick, are design'd

To change of aire, i'le try't upon my mind.

Ex.

Act. 3.

Enter Malipiero and Thomazo.

Tho.

NOt this Englishman to be found?

Mal.

Hee's not above ground

Where I could suspect him in the City—

Tho.

Let him goe, may be his hast topled him

Into the river, and we may eat his nose

In the next haddock.

Mal.

Wherefore did you fly?

Tho.

[Page 27]

Do'st think 'twas fear?

Mal.

'Twas something like a will,

To keep your skin from oilet-holes.

Tho.

I grant you,

What had I to do to bring up a fashion?

Mal.

We might ha'gone a sure and nearer way

To ha' kill'd him in a right line with a bullet,

But let him goe, so he quit Venice any way.

Tho.

Hee would spoile our mirth, but I much wonder

Bernardo is not come yet, whom I sent

Embassador for money to the Merchants.

Mal.

Nor Marcello, whom I employ'd to the same end,

To my most Costive Uncle for some goldfinches.

Tho.

Why should the state have an Exchequer, and

We want?

Mal.

For pious uses too, to drink their health;

And see the Common-wealth go round

In mutuall commerce of mirth and spirit,

Which phlegme and usury hath almost stifled,

Sobriety and long gownes spoile the City.

'Tis we would keep the body politick

From stinking, ulcer'd with long obligations,

And notaries, which now stuffe the Rialto,

And poyson honest natures, that would else

Live freely, and be drunk at their own charge.

Tho.

I would make new lawes, and I were Duke of Venice.

Mal.

We would not sit i'th chimney corner then,

And sing like Crickets.

Tho.

We would roare like Trumpets,

And deaf the Senators with, give us your monies—

Mal.

Their's? give us our own, their states, their wives,

And wardrobes Scanderbeg.

Tho.

[Page 28]

And their pretty daughters,

My valiant Turk, who should feed high o' purpose—

Mal.

To keep the wanton blood in titillations.

Tho.

It should be a Law, no maid should be in fashion.

Mal.

Yes let 'em be in fashion, but not hold.

Tho.

Not after fourteen be it then enacted.

Mal.

Wee would banish all the Advocates that refus'd

To pimp, and prove it Civill Law.

Tho.

No scribe should dare to shew his ears in our Dominions

Mal.

Hang 'em, they are labells of the Law, and stinke,

Worse then a fish-shambles in lent. No Iew

Should turn a Christian upon perill of

A Confiscation.

Tho.

Why?

Mal.

The slaves are rich,

To turn 'em Christians were to spoile their Conscience,

And make 'em hide their mony, 'tis lesse evill

In state to cherish Jewes, then Christian Usurers.

Tho.

I will have every Citizen a Jew then.

Mal.

We have built no Seraglio yet.

Tho.

That's true,

What think you of the Universities?

Would not they serve?

Mal.

O excellent,

They have severall schooles for severall games.

Tho.

And scaffolds

For the spectators when we keep our acts.

Mal.

The Colledge rents would find the wenches petticoates,

And the revenues of a score of Abbies

Wel stript; would serve to rowl 'em in clean linnen,

And keep the toyes in diet.

Tho.

excelsent!

[Page 29]But when we have converted to the use

The Monasteries, where shall we bestow

The Fryers, and the thin religious men?

Mal.

You may

Keep them with little charge, water is all

The blessing their poor thirst requires, and taylors

Wo'not be troubled for new clothes, a hair shirt

Will outwear a Copy-hold, and warm 4 lives,

Or if you think 'em troublesome, it is

A fair pretence to send 'em to some wild

Country to plant the faith, and teach the infidells

A way to Heaven, for which they may be burn't

Or hang'd, and there's an end o'th honest men.

There be a thousand waies to quiet them.

Tho.

My admirable Counsellor, thou shouldst be

My supreme officer to see Justice done.

Mal.

You cannot honour men of worth too much.

Tho.

Wee'l ha the bridges all pull'd down, and made

Of silver.

Mal.

Drosse! Gold is our orient metall.

Enter Bernardo.

Here is Benardo, welcome, where's the mony?

Ber.

Not a gazet: the merchants are all sullen,

And say you owe too much already.

Mal.

These are Dogbolts.

'Tis time we had new lawes and they wo'not trust.

Tho.

But we must build

No golden bridges at this rate with sun-beames.

Mal.

They were best content themselves with honest stone,

Hard as the heart of your ungodly Merchants.

Tho.

Prethee let's leave our dream of frighting Sailors,

And say, what hope hast thou of getting money

[Page 30]For this daies mirth?

Mal.

Some hope there is, if my Uncle have but faith

Enough, to credit what I never mean,

Thrift and submission, and holy matters;

'Tis all the waies are left to cozen him

And creep into his nature, I have pawn'd

All my religion that il'e turne Fryer.

Tho.

Hast pawn'd thy religion, much good do him,

Let him take the forfeit, so he send thee money—

Mal.

For present use, and howl, and hang himself.

I care not—oh—here's Marcello.

Enter Marcello.

Did st speak with him?

Mar.

Yes.

Mal.

That's well.

Mar.

He doe's commend him to you, and with it this—

Mal.

I knew t'would take, his tender conscience

Tho.

Hast thou prevail'd?

Mar.

This halter—he ha's tyed the knot himself,

And saies next the Philosophers stone, hee knowes not

What thing of nobler value to present you:

And rather then you should delay for want

Of a convenient—you know what, you should

Once more peruse his Orchard, there's one tree

He would have bear no other fruit.

Mal.

I thank him.

For his fine noose, would I had his neck in't,

The Devill should not conjure him from this circle.

Is this the end of all?

Tho.

No, not of all.

Mal.

I pretheee try how it will hold—d'ee hear

Let's lay our heads together. Which of you

Is best acquainted with the Turk?

Tho.

What Turk.

Mal.

[Page 31]

The great and mighty Sultan, the grand Signior.

Or have you but a Christian correspondence

With any of his heathen officers.

Tho.

What to doe?

Mal.

No rogue that lies purdue here for intelligence?

Ber.

What then?

Mal.

I would make a bargaine with him now and sell

This City to the Pagan instantly.

Venice is a Jewell, a rich pendant;

Would hang rarely at the great Turkes eare.

Tho.

No doubt.

Mal.

Or at one horne of his half Moon.

Mar.

I think so.

Mal.

I would betray if I knew how, the state

Or any thing for half a hundred Duccats

To make one merry night, though after I

Were broke upon a wheel, or set upright

To peep through a cleft tree like a pole-cat

In the high way—no money from the Mungrells?

Well if I live. I will to Amsterdam,

And adde another schisme to the two hundred

Fourscore and odd;

I am resolv'd.

Tho.

What?

Mal.

To cry down all things

That hang on wit, truth, or religion.

Tho.

Come, thou art passionate, is there no trick?

No lewd device? let me see?—I have thought

Away to raise us my dear Tully, a project

Shall raise us, or i'le venture—

Mal.

What?

Tho.

My neck

For hanging is the end of my device,

Unlesse I thrive in't: go to the randevouz,

[Page 32]To Rosabella's O' the grand Cavale,

Kiss her and call for wines, my bullyrookes,

A dish of dainty fidlers to curvet too,

And drink a health that I may prosper, tumble

And shake the house, I'le fetch you off.

Mal.

But fignior—

Tho.

No more words, cannot you be gone, be drunk,

And leave me to the reckoning, i'le return

With Indian spoiles like Alexander.

Exit.

Mal.

Spoken

Like a true Macedonian, we are gone.

He's right, and may in time, and our good breeding

Be brought to something, may deserve the Gallies.

Follow your leaders Mirmidons.

Both.

We attend.

Exeunt.

Enter Giovanni and Georgio.

Ge.

But will you venture Signior Giovanni

Your body to the warrs indeed?

Gio.

I mean so.

Ge.

And leave me to be lost, or thrown away

Among the weeds here!

Gio.

Try thy fortune wo'me.

Ge.

Yes, and come hopping home upon one legg.

Will all my pay then buy a handsome halter

To hang my arm in, if it be but maim'd,

Yet I endure a battail every day,

My mistris hath a mouth carries whole Cannon;

And if you took that engine to the warrs,

You would find it do rare service.

Gio.

What?

Ge.

Her tongue;

Make her but angry, and you'l need no more

Artillery to scoure them with a breach.

What spoile her breath would make in a market place?

Gio.

[Page 33]

Be lesse satyricall;

I must not hear this, she is my mother.

Geo.

She is my mistris, and thats worse, but I`me resolv'd,

I'le to the warrs w'e, do not tell her on't,

My prentiship is worse then killing there.

My hand, i'le w'ee.

Gio.

In the mean time buy yee a sword, and belt,

And what is fit.

Gives him money.

Ge.

No more, i'le be a souldier;

And kill according to my pay, this will

Suffice to vamp my body, I may rise

If I grow rich in valour, that will do't,

Mony and a tilting feather make a Captain.

Exit.

Gio.

There is no other way to quiet the

Afflictions here, beside 'tis honorable,

And warre a glorious mistris.

Enter Bellaura, and Roberto.

'Tis Bellaura and my Father.

Bel.

I know Madam you may break his resolution,

If you be pleas'd, you may command; hee's here.

Bel.

I'le try my skill.

Ro.

Blessings attend your Ladiship.

I'le waite for the successe.

Exit.

Bel.

How now Giovanni,

What with a sword, you were not us'd to appeare

Thus arm'd, your weapon is a spade I take it.

Gio.

It did become my late profession Madam;

But I am chang'd.

Bel.

Not to a souldier.

Gio.

It is a title Madam will much grace me,

And with the best collection of my thoughts

I have ambition to the warre.

Be.

You have?

Gio.

Oh 'tis a brave profession, and rewards

[Page 34]All losse wee meet with double weight in glory,

A calling Princes stil are proud to own,

And some do willingly forget their crownes

To be commanded, 'tis the spring of all

We here entitle fame to, Emperors

And all degrees of honors, owing all

Their names to this imployment, in her vast

And circular embraces holding Kings,

And making them; and yet so kind as not

To exclude such private things as I, who may

Learn and commence in her great arts. My life

Hath been too uselesse to my self and Country,

'Tis time I should imploy it to deserve

A name within their Registry, that bring

The wealth, the harvest home of well bought honor.

Bel.

It is an active time I must confesse,

And the unhappy scene of war too nere us

But that it should enflame you on the suddain

To leave a calm, and secure life, is more

Then commonly it workes on men of your

Birth, and condition, besides I hear

Your Father is not willing you should leave him,

To engage your self in such apparent danger.

Here you will forfeit your obedience

Unlesse you stay.

Gio.

I cannot despair Madam

Of his consent, and if by my own strength

Of reason I incline him not, it was

In my ambition to addresse my humble

Suite to your Ladiship to gain it for me,

At worst it is no breach of duty Madam,

If I preferre my Country and her cause

Now bleeding, before any formall ties

Of nature to a soft indulgent father.

For danger, let pale soules consider it,

It is beneath my fears.

Bel.

[Page 35]

Yet I can see

Through all this resolution iovanni?

'Tis somthing else hath wrought this violent chang,

Pray let me be of counsel with your thoughts,

And know the serious motive, come be clear,

I am no enemy, and can assist

Where I allow the cause.

Gio.

You may be angry

Madam, and chide it as a sawcy pride

In me to name, or look at honor, nor

Can I but know what small addition

Is my unskilfull arme to aide a Country.

Bel.

I may therefore justly suspect, there is

Something of other force that moves you to

The warrs, enlarge my knowledge with the secret.

Gio.

At this command I open my heart, Madam,

I must confesse there is another cause

Which I dare not in obedience

Obscure, since you will call it forth, and yet

I know you will laugh at me.

Bel.

It would ill

Become my breeding Giovanni.

Gio.

Then,

Know Madam, I'me in love.

Bel.

In love with whom?

Gio.

With one I dare not name, shee's so much

Above my birth and fortunes.

Bel.

I commend

Your flight, but does she know it?

Gio.

I durst never

Appear with so much boldnesse to discover

My hearts so great ambition, 'tis here still,

A strange and busie guest.

Bel.

And you think absence

May cure this wound.

Gio.

Or death.

Bel.

[Page 36]

I may presume,

You think shee's fair.

Gio.

I dare as soon question your beauty Madam,

The onely ornament, and starre of Venice,

Pardon the bold comparison, yet there is

Something in you resembles my great mistris

She blushes—

Such very beames dispearseth her bright eye

Powerfull to restore decrepit nature,

But when she frownes, and changes from her sweet

Aspect (as in my fears I see you now

Offended at my boldnesse) she does blast

Poor Giovanni thus, and thus I wither

At heart, and wish my self a thing lost in

My own forgotten dust, but it's not possible

At last (if any starres blesse but high thoughts)

By some desert in war, and deeds of honor.)

(For mean as I, have rais'd themselves to Empire)

That she without a blush to stain her cheek

May own me for a servant—I am lost

In wandring apprehensions.

Bel.

Poor Giovanni,

I pitty thee, but cannot cure—I like

Thy aspiring thoughts, and to this last of love,

Allow the warrs a noble remedy.

Enter Roberto and Ursula.

I have argu'd against your sonns resolve, but find

His reasons overcome my weak dispute.

And I must counsell you to allow 'em too.

Urs.

Nay, I was never much against it Madam.

Ro.

She loves him not, but does your Ladiship

Think fitting, he should go?

Bel.

Yes, yes 'tis honorable;

And to encourage his forward spirit,

The Generall is my kinsman Giovanni,

[Page 37]What favours he can do you, you shall have

My letters to entreat, and at my charge

You shall be furnish'd like a Gentleman,

Attend me at my lodgings.

Gio.

You bind all

My services; why this will make a shew yet.

Ro.

Nay, then take my consent and blessing too.

Urs.

And mine: the Duke.

Exeunt.

Enter Duke and Marino.

Du.

Bellaura, I must speak to you.

Bel.

I attend.

Du.

You have my purpose, and return me clearly

How he bestowes himself, and what society

Withdrawes him from his duty thus.

Mar.

I shall

With my best care.

Du.

I fear that Malipiero,

[with Bellaura]

But let me find your diligence: Bellaura.

Exit.

The Scene adorn'd with Pictures amongst the rest Claudiana's Enter Bravos with the Englishman, they unbind him and Exeunt.

Flo.

I am all wonder: shall I trust my sences.

A fair and pleasant gallery; was I

Surpriz'd for this? or doe I dream, I did

Expect the end of my conveyance should

Have been more fatal,

No tract appears, or signe of those that brought me,

The place is rich in ornament, sure these

Are Pictures, all things silent as the Images,

And yet these speak, some do inhabit here,

This room was not ordain'd onely for air

And shadowes, 'tis some flattering Prologue to

My death, some plot to second the affront

[Page 38]Of Malipiero with more scorne to ruine me.

Enter Cornari with a case of Pistolls.

What art?

Cor.

A friend.

Flo.

That posture and presentment

Promise no great assurance, yet there's something

Within that noble frame would tempt me to

Believe thou art.

Cor.

What?

Flo.

A black murderer.

Point not thy horrid messengers of death

Upon a man disarm'd, my bosome is

No proof against those fiery Executioners.

How came I to deserve from thee unknown

So black a purpose, as thy lookes present me?

I never saw thy face, nor am I conscious

Of any act, in whose revenge, thou hast

Put on this horror, let me know my guilt

Before I die, although I never liv'd

At that poor rate to fear a noble death;

Yet unprepar'd, and thus to die, doth something

Stagger my soul, and weaken my resolve

To meet thy Execution, thou hast

Too good a face to be a Mercenary

Cut-throat, and Malipiero would become

The hangmans office better.

Cor.

You believe then,

How easily I can command your destine,

I have no plot with any Malipiero,

And thus remove thy fears

He carries in the Pistolls and returnes.

Flo.

Is he gone?

Cor.

Y'are still within

My power, but call your selfe my guest, not prisoner,

And if you be not dangerous to your self

[Page 39]Nothing is meant but safety here and honor.

Flo.

This does amaze me more; but do Italians

Compell men to receive their courtesies?

Cor.

I must not give you reasons; yet for your

Surprize, you may receive a timely knowledge

And not repent. I am a Gentleman,

And by that name secure thee, if you can

Fancie a peace with this restraint, 'tis none

But something that may please you above freedom,

If your unruly thoughts tempt a resistance,

Death is let in, at every thing you look at.

Flo.

I'le leave my wonder and believe, what now

Must I obey?

Cor.

First walk away your fright.

Flo.

'Tis off.

Cor.

How do you like this gallery?

Flo.

'Tis very handsome.

Cor.

And these pictures.

Flo.

Wel.

Cor.

Your eyes are yet too carelesse, pray examine 'em.

Flo.

They cannot answer.

Cor.

Now your opinion.

Flo.

Very good faces.

Cor.

Have your eyes ever

Met with a substance that might reflect

On any of these shadowes sir in Venice?

Flo.

Never.

Cor.

Look a little better, is there nothing

Of more then common curiosity,

In any of these beauties.

Flo.

I have seen

Fair ones, what should this mean?

Cor.

But pray tel me,

Of these (which some have prais'd for handsomness)

Which doth affect you most? I guesse you have

By frequent view, and the converse with Ladies

[Page 40]Ariv'd at excellent judgement:

Flo.

I did not

Expect this Dialogue, yet i'le be free,

I profess stranger to 'em all, but this

[pointing to Claudiana]

I should elect the fairest and most worthy

A masculine Embrace. I build upon

The promise of your Honour, I should else

Be nice in my opinion.

Cor.

You are just,

And I prefer that too, what will you say

To call that Lady Mistris, and enjoy her?

Shee's noble to my knowledge, but enough

At this time. I must pray your kind excuse

If (whilst) you walk into this room

Opening the hanging.

Flo.

A fair one.

Cor.

Which is design'd your lodging, I become

Your jailour, and make sure this Gallery

Til my return; be constant to your temper,

There shall be nothing wanting to procure

You safe, and pleasant hours.

Flo.

Distrust falles off.

I will expect to find you noble, though

My faith bind not to all, and enter.

Exit.

Cor.

So.

I tread a maze too, but must not resign

My office, till I perfect my design

Exit.

Enter Malipiero with Rosabella dancing, [Dance] Bernardo, Marcello.

Ber.

Active Malipiero.

Mar.

Excellent

They move as they had nothing else but soul.

Mal.

So, drink, we are not merry, here's a health

To my hen sparrow.

Mar.

Let it walk round.

Ber.

What Rosabella's health? before the states—

Mal.

[Page 41]

Hang States, and Commonwealths we will be Emperors;

And laugh, and drink away whole Provinces.

Shall we not dydapper?

Ro.

What you please, but will Signior

Thomazo be here presently, and bring—

Mal.

The golden Fleece, thou Lady Guinever,

And he shall mount thy little modesty,

And ride like Agamemnon, and shall pay for't,

While we, like valiant Greekes in lusty wine,

Drench the remembrance that we are mortall,

More wine, my everlasting Marmoset.

Ber.

Brave Malipiero still! our grand Signiors health,

[Drinkes]

Signior Thomazo.

Mal.

Let it come squirrells,

And then a song my pretty Rosabella,

Which of the Senators were here last night

To court thee with a draught of dissolv'd pearle?

Be supple to thy friends, and let thy men

Of state, who hide their warp't leggs in long gowns,

And keep their wisdom warm in furrs like agues,

Most grave and serious follies, wait, and want

The knowledge of thy fidle, my dear Dowsabel.

Ro.

What hath advanc'd your brain thus Malipiero?

You were not wont to talk at such a height,

There is some mighty fortune drpoping, is

Your Uncle sick, whose heir you hope to be?

Mal.

Hang Uncles, there's a damp in's very name.

Wine, or I sink,—so now thy song, come sit.

Rosabella sings.

Enter Thomazo with Marino.

Tho.

Nay you shall enter, Gentlemen, my friend, Salute him, Malipiero, he is one [Page 42] May do us service.

Mar.

sir! i'le take my leave.

Tho.

That were a jest, you shall stay by this hand,

Who ha's the wine, drink to my noble friend,

Whilst I embrace my Queen of Carthage.

Ro.

Welcome.

Mal.

I have seen this Gentleman wait nere your Father.

Tho.

Right in his bedchamber, a sober Coxcombe,

We met by chance, let's make him drunk, I have

The brave devices here boy.

Mal.

Good: y'are welcome,

Fill me a tun of wine.

Mari.

How Signior!

Mal.

It is too too little for a friend.

Mari.

They'l drown me, here's a pretious knot

Tho.

I hugge thee Cleopatra, Gentlemen,

Am not I behind half a score glasses, fil,

Come charge me home, i'le take it here

He takes the bottle.

Mari.

What will become of me? they mean to drench

Me for the sullens, I am like to have

A very fine time, and employment here.

Tho.

But ha'you nere a banquet?

Ros.

'Tis preparing.

Tho.

Let it be as rich as the Egyptian Queen

Made for Mark Anthony; in the mean time

What limb of wantonnesse have you ready for

My noble friend here, get him a fine flesh saddle,

Or where's thy mother, now I think upon't,

He loves to ride upon a pad.

Mari.

Not I sir.

Mal.

Oh by all meanes Signior.

He shall go to the price of any Ladyware.

Mari.

Who I? alas my tilting daies are done, nay, nay, then

I'le drink w'ee gentlemen, but I cannottumble

Tho.

[Page 43]

Why then here's to thee.

Mari.

No Lady ware for me sweet Mistris,

I blush to say I cannot mount at this time.

Would I were off agen, polecats for me?

Tho.

Now gentlemen wipe your eyes

Shewes a Cabinet.

Mari.

A Cabinet of rich Jewels.

Tho.

And how, and how shew things?

Is't fit we want to revell, while my father

Ha's these toyes idle, we grope in the dark

And lose our way, while such bright starres as these

May light us to a wench?

Mari.

There is no conscience in't.

But what shall we do with 'em? there's a lustre

Hath struck me into a flame.

Mal.

Drink half, and tumble out the rest

In featherbeds.

Tho.

Where's Rosabella, to lend money?

Mari.

Stay, sir,

She never can disburse to half their valew,

Beside I know their slie and costive natures.

I am acquainted with a Jew, are we

All faithfull? are there no traitors here?

I am acquainted with a Jew shal furnish you

To purpose, & transport these, where they shannot

Betray from whence they came: trust her? 'tis dangerous,

Besides the scanting of your mirth, by a

Penurious Son, give me the Cabinet—

Y'are sure all these are friends, & will say nothing?

Tho.

I warrant thee; what luck had I to meet him.

Mal.

Will you trust him?

Tho.

Hee's one of us, make hast, a mighty summe.

Mari.

I'le bring a storme of Duccats instantly.

Exit.

Tho.

So, so to'th wine agen.

Mal.

You need not spend the total here, I have use

[Page 44]For forty of those Duccats.

Tho.

S'hat have fifty.

Mal.

These gentlemen are out of figleaves too.

Some fresher robes would shew well.

Tho.

They shall have

New skins my Holofernes.

Mal.

I'le have half.

B. M.

A match.

Mal.

Wine, to our Generalissimo.

Tho.

That's I, I understand the Metaphor.

It shall have law, oh for some trumpets now.

Mal.

Tantarra rara boyes, outrore the winds

And drink the sun into Eclipse, hang miching,

But where's my wanton Pinnace?

Ber.

Boorded by.

Some man of war by this time.

Mar.

She is spoon'd away.

Mal.

My top and top gallant gone? ha! are there Pirates

Upon these Goasts; give fire upon the water-rats,

And shoot pell mell, fight as a whirlewind flinges,

Disordering all, what man of Menaces

Dare look awry upon my Cattamountaine?

Tho.

Not I: now hee's got rampant, heel kill some body.

Ber.

You must not be affrighted, to'ther lift

And be a Giant eke, and talk of terrors

With words Olympus high.

Tho.

Will that do't?

Ber.

Oh sir.

Tho.

Give me the bottle then?

Mal.

Suppose thou wert my Uncle now, come hither,

Hold thy head fair, that I may whip it off.

Mar.

Mine's nothing like, Bernardo has been taken

[Page 45]For your Uncle Signior.

Mal.

How dare you be like

The rogue my Uncle sirra?

Ber.

I sir? 'tis

Signior Thomazo that he means, and see

For very fear his head fales off

Thomazo was drinking and here sets down the bottle.

Mal.

Reach it me,

I'le drink a health, then in his skull.

Tho.

Who talkes of me, who dares mention

A thought of me? where be the dainty duccats?

Enter Marino.

Mari.

The moneie's coming sir, six men are laden,

And will be here immediately.

Mal.

Thou shalt drink

A health, kneel venerable sir.

Tho.

Be humble,

Thou man of Malligo, or thou dyest

Mari.

I do sir.

[Kneeles]

Mal.

To the Town, a fire.

Mar.

What dee mean Signior.

Tho.

He has a very good meaning, never doubt it.

Mal.

That you shall pledge, or forfeit your sconce to me,

None shall have the honor to pledge this health,

But this whay bearded Signior.

Tho.

Now do my braines tumble, tumble, tumble—

Mal.

give it him,

And drink it with devotion as I did.

Tho.

I long to see these double, double—hickets

But where's the Cockatrice, this whirligigge?

Is my head fast?

Mar.

The scrue is firm, suspect not.

Mari.

I dare not pray nor ask forgivenesse here.

Tho.

Do not my braines now turn upon the toe.

Mal

[Page 46]

Do you hear my doughty Signior Thomazo,

W [...]t you kil the Duke, your graceless father now?

Tho.

Yes marry will I.

Mal.

You sha'l let him into the Chamber one night,

Where he shall strangle him.

Tho.

O [...] I can play upon his windpipe rarely.

Mal.

Wee'l see (d'ee mark) some corner of the Palace

A fire, at the same time, and in that hurry

Break into the Treasury, take what we think fit,

And steal away by Sea into another Country.

Mari.

Most admirably contriv'd; the men are come.

Enter Officers.

Tho.

Hey, the money boyes?

Mari.

Disarme the traitors.

Mal.

Plots, ambuscadoes, are these your Jew tricks.

Mari.

I'l wait til you have slept away your surfeit,

Here in the house.

Tho.

Which is the Jew of all these?

Mal.

We are cheated by a Court-nap.

Tho.

My friend, are you the Jew? where be the Jewells.

Mari.

Truth is, I have sent the Jewels to your Father,

And he will lend no money.

Tho.

No money?

Mal.

But must we go to prison?

Tho.

I'le to prison with e'm spight o'your teeth.

Mari.

Not, till you have slept, this way.

Exit. with Tho.

Enter Rosabella.

Ro.

The Banquet's ready gentlemen.

Mal.

A rescue.

We are snatch'd up for traitors, we are betraid,

And going to prison.

Ro.

Who paies for the wine and banquet?

Mal.

[Page 47]

Why any living body, that has a scruple

In's Conscience, for the losse of thy dear Comfits,

And Carrawaies, away, lead me ye rogues.

'le not march else, and let us make a shew,

My fine officious rascalls, on afore,

I follow in fit state, so farewell firelock.

Ros.

I shall be undone.

Mal.

Undoing is thy trade,

March on I say.

Exeunt.

Act. 4.

Enter Cornari, after him Claudiana.

Clau.

YOur pleasure sir; you did command my presence.

Cor.

Are you come? you and I must not be

Interrupted Claudiana.

Claud.

Why do you shut your Chamber?

Cor.

Wee must be private.

How does my life?

Clau.

Well sir, if you be so.

Cor.

I have a sute to thee, my best Caudiana.

Clau.

To me? it must be granted.

Cor.

That's well said,

But 'tis a businesse (sweet) of mighty consequence,

More pretious then my life.

Cla.

Goodnesse forbid

I should not give obedience to the least

Of your commands, but when your life requires

My service, I should chide my heart, and thoughts

Unlesse they put on wings to shew their duty.

Cor.

Nay, 'tis a businesse sweet will speak thy love.

Cor.

[Page 48]

Thou knowest how many years since the Priest tyed

Our holy knot, with what religious flowing

Of chast and noble love our hearts have met,

How many blessings have I summ'd in thee,

And but in thee, for unto this, Heaven gave not

(That which indeed doth Crown all Marriage,)

Children, thou hast been fruitfull Claudiana

In all that's good, but onely fruitfulnesse;

And when I think who in my want of that

Great blessing of thy womb, must be my heir,

A base and impious villain, to possesse

And riot in my spacious fortunes, I

Forget that other happinesse in thy person,

And let in a vexation to consume me.

Cla.

I know not what to fear, it is heavens will

And not my fault.

Cor.

Oh no, the fault is mine,

All mine Claudiana, for thou art not barren

'Tis I, a man prodigious and mulcted

By nature, without faculty of man

To make our marriage happy, and preserve

This fair; this lovely figure, be at peace

And let me blush, a thing not worth the love

Of such a bounteous sweetnesse.

[Kneeles]

Cla.

Let me fall

Beneath that which sustaines me, ere I take

In a beleef, that will destroy my peace,

Not in the apprehension of what

You frame to accuse your self, but in fear

My honour is betraid to your suspition;

Oh kill me sir, before I lose your thought,

Your noble thought.

Cor.

Rise, with thy tears I kisse

Away thy tremblings; I suspect thy honor?

My heart will want faith to believe an Angel,

[Page 49]That should traduce thy fair name, thou art chast

As the white down of heaven, whose feathers play

Upon the wings of a cold winters gale,

Trembling with fear to touch the impurer earth.

How are the roses frighted in thy cheekes

To palenesse, weeping out of transparent dew:

When a loose story is but nam'd? thou art

The miracle of a chast wife, from which fair

Originall, drawn out by heavens own hand,

To have had one Copie, I had write perfection

To all my wishes here, but 'tis denyed me,

Nor do I mock thee with a fable, while

I miserably complain, convinc'd, and lost

In my own Masculine defect; but yet

I love thee Claudiana, dost not think so?

And after so much injury, I bring

Not my repentance onely, but a just

And noble satisfaction.

Cla.

You oppresse

My sences with the weight of new amazement.

Cor.

I must be clear, thou must embrace another—

Another in my bed, whom from the world

I have made choice to know thee, be not frighted

This way is left, and this alone to recompence

My want, and make both happy.

Cla.

I embrace

Another in your bed?

Cor.

Dost think I would

Attempt, or wish thee to't, without a care

In every circumstance to both our fames?

Cla.

Fame? are you master of your reason? dare you

Provoke heaven thus?

Cor.

Heaven onely shall be witnesse,

Whose secrefie i'le trust, but not anothers.

Beside the principall agent, to get heaven.

Cla.

Y'are no Italian sure.

Cor.

[Page 50]

Yes, and thy husband,

A just one to thy memory, that would

Cancell his faith, rather then be a strict

Idolater of words, and severe lawes,

To the destroying of so sweet a figure;

I would not have thee flye like birds i'th aire,

Or shippes that leave no tract, to say here was,

So rich a blessing, rather like a plant

Should root, and grow, and bloom, & bear for ever.

Cla.

I'me lost for ever.

Cor.

Be wise and meet my wishes, 'tis my love

That hath 'orecome all nice considerings

To do thee justice. Nor will I intrude

Upon thy bosome one shall be unwelcome,

Hee's honorably born, of comely person,

But has a soule addes glory to 'em both,

A boy from him, born to my name and fortunes

Leaves not another wealth to my ambition.

To raise thy free consent my Claudiana,

'Tis he, Whom thou dost think worth thy owne praise,

The gentleman victorious for his parts,

So late in Venice, the English Cavalier.

Cla.

I am undone.

Cor.

To be short,

I have surpriz'd his person for this use,

He hath been many daies an obscure guest

Within the lodgings next the Garden, for

I must confesse I have had struglings in

My nature, and have sate in Councell 'gainst

My selfe sometime, touching this great affair,

But I have answer'd every thing oppos'd it,

And took this time to acquaint thee.

Cla.

Good sir kill me.

Cor.

I will,

And him too, if ye mingle not and make

[Page 51]The project as I cast it, be not obstinate,

Why, he shall nere discover who thou act,

If thou be faithfull to thy self, thou maist

Pretend thy self some pleasant bona roba.

Dr take what name, and shape thou wilt.

Cla.

There's none

Can hide my shame, or wash the stain away:

Cor.

What shame or stain is in't when it is kept

A secret darker then the book of destinie

From mankind?

Cla.

Am I practis'd in those arts?

Of sin that he should take me for a Curtesan?

Nay, rather let me be known your wife,

It will oblige him more to use me well,

And thank your loving paines that brought me to him.

If I must be a whore, and you a—

Cor.

Stay, and I a—what? I bleed within me.

Cla.

This key will make the Chamber free, I follow.

Consider sir, I'me else undone for ever

Ex.

Cor.

Why if he know me for her husband, 'tis

Without a name, I can secure my honor,

And send him quickly to eternall silence.

I'me resolv'd they must obey, proceed,

A little blood will wash away this deed.

Ex.

Enter Duke, Senators, Attendants, Letters upon a Table.

Duke

Our City drooping with the wounds so late

Receiv'd, is now to study with what joyes

To entertain so great a victory.

Treuiso is return'd to our obedience,

Almost without a losse, how many fell

On the adverse part, those papers signifie,

And must enlarge our tryumph: but is't not

Strange what our generall writes of Giovanni,

[Page 52]Whose spirit he admires, and forward valour,

Referring to his bold attempt, our Conquest,

That he advanc'd his head and sword first on

The enemies walls, which inflam'd our army

To second him with courage, and that after

With his own hands he slew their generall,

Whose fall shot death and trembling through their Army.

Can.

Where is Giovanni?

Du.

He is by direction of our generall

Now marching hither, to his onely conduct.

The Captives are remitted, and his act

By us to be considered, but we have

Sent order for the placing of his Prisoners

Securely, and commanded he should here

Attend our pleasure

Gan.

The young Gardiner?

Du.

The same, whose early valour takes away

The prejudice of humble birth, and ought

To be encourag'd nobly.

Can.

'Tis but justice.

Enter Marino.

Is't possible the Gardiners Son should so

Behave himself in war,

He will deserve some honor for't.

Du.

Why may not

Our power dispence, and though his low condition

By our rule exempt him (for his gallant service

Done) now create him gentleman of Venice,

With a noble pension from our treasury

To bear his title up?

Can.

We give it strangers,

Whose birth we not examine,

He deserves it.

Du.

Let him receive no favour

[Page 53]For his relation to me, but take

His place and punishment with the rest, away

I cast him from my thought.

Exit Marino.

Can.

Why comes not

Our Generall himself?

Du.

Reasons of war

May yet compell his stay, hee's to repair

Some breaches which our Souldiers made, & wisely

By some new fortification, secure

The Town if the Enemy should reinforce.

Att.

Signior Giovanni waites.

Enter Mar.

Du.

Hath he dispos'd

By our direction those prisoners were

Sent by our Generall?

Atten.

He hath and please your excellencie.

Du.

Admit him.

Enter Giovanni plum'd and brave Georgio his servant

Gio.

All health and honor to the Duke and Senate.

Du.

We thank thee Giovanni, and will spare

Your trouble to 'relate what we have gain'd

I'th war; Our General writes how much our Venice

Doth owe to you, whose maiden yet bold valour,

Hath wrought our safety, and supprest the late

Insolent Genowese.

Gio.

Your bounty makes

That mine, which I want merit sir to challenge,

But if my will to serve my Country (for

Beside that name and warm desires, I dare

Call nothing mine) y'are pleas'd to accept and cherish

A young mans duty, you will teach me in

The next employment to deserve indeed.

Till when, you lose not, to have built upon

This humble pile, a monument of your goodnesse,

[Page 54]To tell the world, although misplac'd on me,

You love a growing vertue.

Du.

This Giovanni?

His words tast more of courtier then the Garden.

To shew we understand, and to that knowledge

Have will to recompence the desert, Giovanni

The Senate bidds you ask, what in your power

Your thought can aim at, to reward your service,

And you shall soon possesse it.

Geo.

Ask, ask quickly,

A hundred thousand double double duccats.

'Twil serve us both, do't, beggars must be impudent.

Gio.

Now you destroy what else might live to serve you,

This grace will make me nothing, when I call

My airy worth to ballance, keep those glorious

Rewards for men borne, and brought up in honor?

That may be great and able Columnes to

Your ever envyed state; alas I rise

Like a thin reede beneath this Common-wealth,

Whose weight, an Atlas must sustain like heaven,

This favour is too mighty, and if you

Command me, ask a just reward, 'tis nothing.

Geo.

You had as good ha said nothing, I blush for you,

You know many Souldiers

So modest, to refuse pay, or preferment?

They cannot have it sometimes, after many

Petitions to the State, and now their mindes

Are soluble and apt to powre out favours,

You to be so maidenly—

Gio.

May I credit

With pardon of your wisdomes, that you mean

To encourage thus the low born Giovanni?

Geo.

Now he makes question of their honesty too,

Oh simple souldier.

Du.

[Page 55]

We look not at thy root, but at thy blossom,

And as a preserver of our Country

We offer up a gratitude, consult

With thy best judgement, (though beside this act

Of his abroad) I can give no account

[Aside]

Why I should love this young man, or prefer him,

I know not by what mystery, I have

Had thoughts to wish him more then common fortune,

And this occasion of his merit offered.

I will pursue.

Geo.

Do as I counsell you, and remember, I

Have left my fortunes, and my trade to serve you.

Gio.

Call it not pride if I be willing to

Believe your excellence, that I have done

Somthing your goodnesse prompts you to reward,

And the grave Senate, I have thought.

Du.

Be free.

Geo.

Now do I expect to be half a Senator at least.

Gio.

And since you raise my act to such a merit,

I will not ask a thing too much beneath it.

Geo.

Well said Vannij.

Gio.

And shame your bounty; yet I may fear

You will not grant—

Geo.

Agen?

Du.

Name it with confidence.

Gio.

I look at no reward of gold.

Geo.

How's that? hee's out on's part.

Gio.

I know not,

By what fate I contemn it, nor at titles

Of honor, or command, or what can trench

On state or wealth.

Geo.

I thank yee heartily,

I must to dig agen.

Gio.

Employ such gifts,

To pay some slight, and mercenary soules,

That make their end of good, reward, and not

[Page 56]It selfe, but since you have impos'd I should

Make choyce of somwhat know my ambition aims—

Du.

At what?

Gio.

It is too great a happinesse, but I now

Consider I have pratled to the wind,

What I desire is not within your power,

And what you may command, not in my wishes,

For I would ask Bellaura: can you make

Me fit for such a blessing? no, you cannot,

Unlesse I were unborn, and should agen

Come forth, not Giovanni, but the Son

Of some bright name, and this world-taking honor.

Du.

Bellaura? strange request.

Enter Marino and Bellaura.

Mar.

Madam I dare not

Be seen, if you prevail, I shall attend,

And put his mercy into act.

Exit.

Du.

Shee's here.

Bel.

I have a [...]uit to your highnesse.

Du.

Me Bellaura?

Bel.

About your son, whom men to your dishonor

Lead like some base offender.

Du.

I must speak

The cause into your ear.

[Whispers to her]

Gio.

I was too blame

To mention her so publick, but my heart

Grew sick with silence, and their proposition

To ask what I desir'd most, prevail'd

Against my reason:

Du.

Leave him to me, Bellaura.

Do you observe that gentleman?

Bel

'Tis Giovanni.

He does become the souldier.

Du.

He has done wonders

Abroad, and quit our gratitude, to be

Onely by you rewarded, can you love him?

Bel.

[Page 57]

I understand you not.

Du.

And marry him?

Bel.

How have I lost my self, since I became

Your charge, a legacie bequeath'd your care

By my dead father, the late Duke of Venice,

That you should think I can descend with such

Forgetfullnesse of my self, my birth or fortunes

To place my love on one so poorly born.

Du.

You blush. Bel. 'tis anger in my blood to hear him nam'd.

[To Giovanni]

You pay me coursely for my charity.

Learn modesty hereafter to be gratefull.

I ha done we'e sir

Exit.

Geo.

Do you heer the tit? be wise,

And look at ready money, 'tis a better

Commodity then any Lady in Christendom;

Gio.

Pray dismiss,

And pardon Giovanni. I am satisfied.

For your own honor let not my ambition

Be told abroad, i'le check and punish my

Aspiring thoughts hereafter.

Du.

You have leave,

Come gentlemen,

He is in love.

Du.

I pitty him.

Exit. Duke and Senator.

Geo.

What shall become of us now by your folly?

Gio.

Wee'l to the Garden George, and there begin

Another grouth, for what we have's despis'd.

Geo.

I knew I should return to my dear dunghill.

Gio.

I prethee see the armour which Bellaura

Bestow'd on me, brought home.

Geo.

Your armour? yes

We might have worn soft natur'd silk, and you had

Been rul'd by me, a pox of love for my part,

'Tis good for nothing, but to make things dear.

Gio.

I'le be reveng'd upon my starrs, that made

[Page 58]Me poor, and dye forgotten in my shade

Ex.

A Table prepar'd, two tapers. Enter Florelli.

Flo.

I find no great devotion in this

Monastick life, the Maior Domo promis'd

A Mistris here of that complexion,

But I like not this solitude,

And tedious expectations,

I shall nere do things handsomly,

Give me freedome and fair play,

And turn me to a harpy, but to be thus

Compell'd to an imbrace (for thats the meaning

Of my slie Signior, if it be not worse)

Fed high to encounter with an Amazon,

I know not? tis not well, nor conscionable

In my opinion: I hear some busie

About the lock.

Enter Cornari.

My Jaylor? What now fellowes?

Sir, if I must ha my throat cut, as much

Better I do not hope, though I deserve not

That bounty from your hands, I live so dully,

I would request you set a time, and't be

A day or two, to pray and think of matters,

And then turn me loose to the other world!

Cor.

Read that.

[gives him a paper]

He shannot see my blushes, I must pitty

Thee Claudiana, but my stubborn fate

Will have it so, it is to make thee live

Although we both must suffer, and I like

A father thus, whose child at play upon

A rive [...]s bank, is faln into the stream,

Leap in, and hazard all to save a little,

But I must on

Exit.

Flo.

Amazement Circles me,

Such wonders are not read in every Marriage,

What shall I doe? madnesse to question it.

[Page 59]I must resolve or die? since there's no help,

Tis something if she be but like that face

To comfort my proceeding.

Enter Cornari leading his wife Veild.

Cor.

Bebold, and take as lent this treasure from me,

I must expect it back agen with interest.

locks the door and Ex.

Flo.

The dore is fast agen, here is a president

For husbands that want heirs to their estate.

A goodly person. Please you Lady, to

Unveil; a rich and most inviting beauty.

[she unveils]

I am all flame, shall I take boldnesse, after

My duty paid your white hand, to aspire

And touch your lip—now could I wish to dwell▪ here.

[he kisses]

Can you read Lady?

She takes the paper & turns.

She turnes away her face. I hope my Signior

Has taken paines to bring her to the businesse,

And not left me to break her: can she speak?

Those lines (I know not how you like 'em Madam)

Were none of my invention, the character,

I guesse to be your husbands. I am here

A prisoner to his will, to which unlesse

You give obedience, I have took leave

Of day for ever, destin'd by his vow

To an eternall shade.

Exit Claudiana.

She leads the way;

Conscience be calme, no grumblings now of piety.

Act. 5.

Giovanni. The pieces of Armour hung upon severall trees Roberto, Ursula.

Gio.

THese were the excellent Bellaura's gift,

Of no use now to me, but to keep fresh

[Page 60]The memory of my dreams and that I lov'd her.

I see how passion did blind my reason,

And my prodigious hopes vanish'd to air

Have left me to contemplate my own vanity.

Ro.

I know not, but if I may credit Georgio

That did wait on thee to the Senate, thou

Hast lost an opportunity, that might

Have made us all Clarissimo's Giovanni.

I might have kept my reverend Mules, and had

My Crupper worshipped by the Plebeians,

And Ursula here been Madam heaven knowes what,

And did you wisely to refuse?

Ur.

Nay, nay I know

He was not born to do us good, not stoop

To take preferment from the Duke and Senate?

Ro.

Well, 'twas his modesty.

Ur.

He learn't it not from me.

Ro.

No more—

Ur.

You wil be alwaies taking his part against me,

But I know, what I know, and that's a secret,

Here comes the t'other Dunderhead.

Enter Georgio.

Geo.

The armour is hung up already, this

We must all come to.

Ro.

What to the Gibet Georgio?

Pointing to the Helmet.

Geo.

Master look here.

If you had but this hole to put your head in,

It would be a great preservative to your hearing,

And keep out all the noise, of my Dames Culvering,

Within this fortification well lock'd up.

You would think her loudest scolding a meer whisper.

Urs.

What's that you talk of your Dame sirra?

Geo.

Oh dame, I have newes for you.

Urs

For me? what is't? whom does your new's concern?

Geo.

One that you love with all your heart.

Ro.

Who is't knave?

Geo.

[Page 61]

Knave? call your word in, and eat it, I'le advise,

You may fare worse: you do not hear the news then?

Urs.

I shall when you'l find utterance.

Geo.

The newes—

We are all of one Religion?

Ro.

Out with it.

Ge.

Every thing is not to be talk'd on.

Ro.

So it seems by your concealment.

Urs.

Shall we hear it?

Geo.

Yes? Signior Thomazo—

Urs.

What of him?

Geo.

There's a gentleman, and you talk of a gentleman.

Urs.

What of Thomazo? now am I longing.

Geo.

I heard, as I came hither—

Vrs.

What?

Ro.

Let us hear too.

Urs.

What? be brief.

Geo.

That he is to lose his head Mistriss—

Urs.

Now a thousand blisters upon that tongue.

Geo.

But you do not know for what, mistrisse there's it,

You are so angry still at half a businesse.

Urs.

For what is he to suffer? oh my heart!

Geo.

For nothing but high treason.

Ro.

How?

Geo.

You ha'not patience, to hear a story out.

High treason said he? that's a shrewd business.

Urs.

Thomazo lose his head?

Ro.

So it seems.

Urs.

Better thy generation were headlesse.

Geo.

I told you but in good will, because I knew

You lov'd him. I ha done.

Exit.

Urs.

Passion O my dear heart! i'le to the Duke

My self, and beg his pardon.

Ro.

You'l make

[Page 62]Your self a party in the treason, will you?

You'l beg his pardon, you'l beg a halter,

And sooner'twill▪ be granted.

Urs.

Giovanni,

Sweet Giovanni, there's a sunshine word,

Deere child go with us.

Ro.

Us? dost think i'le goe

And run my head into the hempe?

Vrs.

Best hony-suckle!

One word ohine will strike the pardon dead.

Gio.

Ide rather go a pilgrimage.

Urs.

Thou shalt go a pilgrimage, another time

To the worlds end, I charge thee on my blessing,

And husband you must gotoo.

Ro.

No, no not I.

I thank you Ursula, i'le not have my foot

Nor hand in any treason.

Urs.

Is it so much to kneel? you shall say nothing.

Unlesse you please, leave all the talk to me,

Ro.

I wo'not go, though the Duke send for me.

Urs.

How? that's a piece a treason.

Ro.

So, if I go not,

Shee'l betray me too; well Giovanni shall go too,

Where is he?

Vrs.

Let me alone to conjure him.

Shall we go presently, delaies are dangerous.

The rascall George is gone too, all forsake me

In my distresse.

Ro.

What will you say Vrsula,

When you come there; what will the Dukes think on you?

Or who shall suffer for your impudence?

And what? that is considerable, I have

No mind to go agen.

Vrs.

Then I'le spoile the Garden,

Break up the hedges, and deface the works

Your darling Giovanni made; i'le let in

[Page 63]A regiment of swine, and all their Officers

To undermine the Castle he made last,

And fortified with Cannon, though I dye for't.

Ro.

More treason, well I will go, but I hope

You wo'not trudge this evening, if we must

Resolve upon't, let us do things discreetly.

Vrs.

That was well said, nay, I am for discretion

For all my hast.

Ro.

I think it most convenient

To wait his businesse, coming forth his Chamber

To morrow morning Vrsula, and then let

Good natures work, to nights no time,

We must consult our Pillowes; what to say;

And how to place our words.

Vrs.

Now 'tis my best

Pigeon, let's home instantly.

Ro.

A sober pace goes far, not too fast Vrsula,

Remembring the Proverb, and what followes;

We should march slow to save me from the gallows.

Exit.

Enter Cornari with a Pistoll and a rapier. Florelli.

Cor.

You have had your time of pleasure, can you pray?

Flo.

Pray, what do you mean Signior.

Cor.

The Lady whom you have enjoy'd, commanded

I should present one of these two, or both

In token of her gratitude.

Flo.

This cannot

Be earnest sir.

Cor.

These are the Jewells

Which you must wear sir next your heart: how de'e

Affect the lustre of this toy? 'tis bright,

But here's a thing will sparkle.

Flo.

I am lost.

Is this the promise of my safety?

Cor.

Yes,

[Page 64]This will secure all, thou dull Ilander,

'Cause you can dance, and vault upon a hobbihorse,

De'e think to mount Madonas here, and not

Pay for the sweet Carreere. Fool, to thy prayers,

For when these messengers salute thy heart,

Thy soul shall find, I'm an Italian,

And wo'not trust a life to him, whose tongue

Commands my honor.

Flo.

Art a Christian?

Cor.

As much as comes to a Venetians faith,

That believes no man is moreto fit die

Then he, that has been capering with my wife.

Flo.

Ye cannot fir forget I was betrai'd,

Awake thy conscience, and let that answer

I have obey'd a dire necessity,

And was brought hither by a stratagem.

Cor.

'Tis all one Signior; I presume you gave

Consent to the deere matter of delight,

Which is not held convenient you should talk of.

Flo.

Hold.

Cor.

Hope not to breath ten minutes, gather up

Those thoughts you would have wait upon you to

Another world.

Flo.

Then 'tis high time to think

Of other matters, though you have cruelly

Resolv'd there is no safety for your fame,

To let me still be numbred with the living.

(Which if your scattered reason were collected,

I could refute,) but I'le not hope it now,)

Since most ignobly 'gainst the rules of honor,

And faith already forfeit, you will make

This undefenced pile your sacrifice,

Yet do not kill me twice.

Cor.

Twice?

Flo.

Such a rage

Were infinite; practise not cruelty

[Page 65]Upon my second life, by murdering my

Eternity, allow to my last breath,

Leave to discharge the weight of many sinnes

Into the bosome of some confessor.

Cor.

This may be granted, 'tis not much unreasonable.

Flo.

Your charity will think it fit to allow

Some minutes to collect my self.

Cor.

To shew

My design has no malice in't, i'le do

Your soul that office, though our bodies must not

Enjoy this aire together many howrs.

I'le send one to you.

Exit.

Flo.

The innocence of a Saint,

Wod not secure his life from an Italian

When his revenge is fixt. In what black hour

Did I salute the world, that I am thrown

Upon so hard a fate? it is not fit

To expostulate with heaven, or I could say

Something in my defence, (as I am man)

To keep this mighty rock from falling on me,

My tutelar Angell be at counsell with

My thoughts, and if there be a path of safety

Direct my trembling steps to find, and tast it.

Enter Cornari in a Friers habit.

Has kept his word, and 'tis no time to trifle,

As y'are a Priest, and by that sacred order

And scapular you wear, not onely hear me

But use your pious art to save from ruine

A man condemn'd for that which heaven and you

Call vertue, for not doing a black deed

Would damn three soules at once, & if your power

Cannot prevail for mercy to my life,

I challenge you when I am dead, to be

A witnesse of my innocence.

Cor.

This has

[Page 66]No shape of a confession.

Flo.

Nor do I

Under that holy seal discourse a story,

Yet Father I must throw my self upon

Your Charity. Know therefore I am betraid,

And by the plot of him that owes this Palace

(Whose name is never like to meet my knowledge)

Snatch'd up, one fatall evening, and forc'd hither

By some dark ministers he had employ'd

(I know not which way) to this fatall chamber.

I shudder but to name what impious act

Against his own, and his dear Ladies honor

He had design'd for me; Her chaster soul

Should have been stain'd, in his distrust of heaven,

To blesse him with an heir, and her white treasure,

By me a stranger rifled, had not providence.

Chain'd up our blood, so that the hours he gave

To serve his black ambition, and our Iust,

We onely spent in prayers for his conversion.

Cor.

Ha.

Flo.

This yet he knowes not, and it is not safe

To appear in our own vertue, since the justice

We did our peace, in crossing his expectance

May improve his rage to both our ruines. This

Sad story frights you, there is horror in't,

But 'tis an hour, the last, without some miracle

To rescue me (a man disarm'd) from violence,

Nor dare I mock heaven now, or hang upon

My soul the burden of a lie, when tis

Taking her last eternall flight, It is not

A fear to dye afflicts me, with my faith

And innocence about me; I have look'd

Death in the face, and be it thought no boast

To say, I have taught others by example

To march up to the ugliest face of danger.

[Page 67]But to die thus dishonorably, to be

Sent out o'th world i'th dark, without a name

Or any account to those, to whom I owe

My blood, and birth? persons that carry names

Of honor in my Country? This doth stagger me

To quit my life, and may excuse my addresse

To you, who have Authority from heaven

To take his fury off, whom otherwise

I expect my violent executioner.

I have some tremblings for his Lady, whose

Most holy tears, stream'd through my soul compassion,

And charm'd my blood, tears, if he durst have patience

Were powerfull enough to beg from heaven

That blessing which he fondly thinks to hasten▪

With losse of his eternity.

Cor.

No more.

Exit Conrari hastily, having thrown off the habit Enter again with Claudiana.

Forgive me, oh forgive me Claudiana,

And if my sin of forcing thy obedience

Beyond the rules of honor, and of marriage

Have not quite murd'red thy affection;

Wish me a little life for my repentance.

Cl.

I joy to hear this from you.

Fl.

There's work within me, and so deep a seuse

Of my own shame and sorrow, that I feel

My heart already weeping out a bath

To make thee white agen.

Cla.

Sir, in what best

I understand, I must ask you forgivenesse.

Cor.

Ha mine, for what, betraying thee to darknesse?

Cla.

For disobeying your command.

Cor.

Thou didst

The impious act by my design, which takes

[Page 68]Thy guilt away, and spreads the leprosie

Upon my self.

Cla.

Although you kill me sir,

I must remove the cloud, and let you see

Me as I am, not chang'd from my first innocence.

Cor.

Possible?

Cl.

Most easie, where there is

A chast resolve, and I must tell you sir,

Although I wanted courage to oppose

Your passion, when your reason, and religion

Were under violence of your will, my heart

Resolv'd to try my own defence, and rather

Then yeeld my self a shamefull spoile to lust,

By my own death to quit my name from scandall;

But providence determin'd better for me,

And made me worth a strangers piety,

Whom your chice meant the ruine of my honor;

If this want entertainment in your faith,

'Tis peace to my poor heart that I have many

White witnesses in Heaven.

Cor.

You have done no feats then?

My wife is chast.

Flo.

I cannot sir engage

My last breath to a nobler truth.

Cor.

'Tis so—

Ex. Cla.

You may withdraw Claudiana; by what

Has been exprest, though I am satisfied,

You are not guilty in the fact, as I

Expected, 'tis not safe, when I consider

My own fame in the story, that you live sir.

I must not trust you longer with a secret

That by my tamenesse may hereafter spread

The infamy abroad: there's no avoiding—

Flo.

Then I must die.

Cor.

Perhaps you have some hope

[Page 69]This engine may deceive me, and my fortune

Not coming better arm'd, give you the advantage

To use your strength, upon my single person!

I know you are active, but i'le make sure work.

Ex.

Flo.

Till now I did not reach the precipice.

My heart would mutinie, but my hands are naked,

And can do nothing.

Enter Cornari with Bravos arm'd.

A knot of murderers! arme me with a sword,

And let me die fighting against you all.

I'le say y'are noble hangmen, and not throw

One curse among you.

Cor.

I've one word to say sir.

Let none approach,

The fatall doom I threatned is revers'd;

Throw off your wonder, and believe you may

Live long, if not in Venice, and your safety

Is more confirm'd at Distance, you are noble,

An honor to your nation. Here is gold,

I know not how you may be furnished sir

For travell hence, bills of exchange may fail.

These will defray a present charge; betray

No wonder, take it.

Flo.

I'le accept your bounty,

And will not ask to whom I owe all this,

Forgive me that. I thought you not so honorable.

So when you please, i'le take my leave.

Cor.

Not yet.

By such attendants ss you came to me,

I have provided sir for your departure.

Your duties gentlemen. You know my purpose.

[Page 70]The Bravos blindhim, and bind him as before. Exeunt. Enter Claudiana.

Cor.

Resume thy place within my soul Claudiana,

When I have done my sorrow for what's past

Weel smile, and kisse for ever.

Exeunt.

Enter a Servant.

Ser.

A letter sir.

Cor.

From whence?

Ser.

Your Nephew now a Prisoner.

Cor.

Let him rot, and give 'em back the paperkite.

Ser.

The messenger is gone.

Cor.

Then he expects no answer.

[Cor. ready]

Cla.

You may read it.

Cor.

Sir, I send not to you for reliefe, nor to

Mediate my pardon. I have not liv'd after

The rate to deserve your bread to feed me,

Nor your breath to save me. I onely beg

That you would put me into your prayers,

And forgivenesse, and believe, I do not wish life,

But to redeem my self from past impieties,

And satisfie by a repentance the dishonors

Have beene done to you, by the worst of men. Malipiero.

This is not his usuall stile.

Cla.

This miracle may be.

Cor.

I do want faith.

Cla.

And sent a blessing to reward our penitence.

Heaven has a spacious charity.

Cor.

Thou art all goodnesse.

Ex.

[Page 71]Enter the Bravos, they lay him down, and Exeunts Florelli recovers.

Flo.

Sure this is gold.

Enter 3. gentlemen▪

Omnes.

Florelli.

Flo.

The same.

Thy looks are wild.

Where in the name of wonder hast thou been▪

Flo.

I am drop'd from the Moon.

The Moon.

Flo.

I was snatch'd up in a whirlwind,

And din'd and sup'd at Cynthia's own table,

Where I drank all your healths in Nectar gentlemen,

Do yee want money? if you have a mind

To return viceroyes, let's take shipping instantly.

And whither then?

Flo.

For new discoveries,

A cloud will take us up at Sea.

'Tis morning.

Flo.

To drink, and then aboord, no matter whither

I'le keep this for a monument.

That bag?

Flo.

Do not profane it, 'twas Endimions pillow

Stuffd with horne shavings of the Moon, it had

The vertue when she clap'd it ore my head

To bring me thence invisible through the air;

The moon does mobble up her self sometime in't.

Where she will shew a quarter face, and was

The first that wore a black bag.

But dost hear?

Flo.

No inquisitions if you will leave Venice.

Let's drink and spoon away with the next vessell.

A hundred leagues hence, I may tell you wonders.

Here is a chime to make Ring Oberon

Queen Mab, and all her fayries turn o'th toe boyes.

Hee's mad I think.

Exeunt.

[Page 72]Enter Vrsula, Roberto, Giovanni.

Vrs.

I could not sleep all this night for dreaming,

O'my poor suckling.

Ro.

peace I say and wait

In silence Vrsula.

Gio.

You may excuse me yet.

I wo'd not see his excellence.

Vrs.

'Tis not my meaning boy, thou shouldst appear

Unlesse there be necessity, you may stay, ith'e next Chamber.

Enter a Courtier.

Vrs.

I beseech you Signior, is this grace coming forth.

Cor.

Not yet.

Vrs.

I have an humble sute, I must deliver

A paper to his graces own hand,

I hope his grace can read.

Ex. Cl.

Ro.

Why how now bagpiper.

Vrs.

Nay, theres no harm in't what if he can,

You will be talking, did not I say

I would speak all my self.

Ro.

But Vrs. what do you think now will become on [...]s

When you have told your tale, though I am innbcent.

It will be no great credit, nor much comfort

To see you whipt my Vrsula, I would

Be sorry for my part to peep through a Pillory

And have an even reckoning with my ears,

Having no more hair to keep warm, and hide

The poor concavities.

Vrs.

Never fear it husband.

Ro.

I will so curse you Vrsula, and once

A day, bind your body to a pear tree,

And thrash your hanches till you stink agen;

For ought I know thou hast committed treason,

[Page 73]Look to't, and bring me off with all my quarters

If I be maim'd or cropt, I'le flea thee Vrsula,

And stuffe thy skin with straw, and hang thee up

To keep the fruit from Crowes, and after burn it.

To kill the Caterpillars, come, be wise in time,

And let Thomazo quietly be hang'd,

Or headed yet, and talk no more, he is

But one, and has a young neck to endure it.

We are old, and sha'not shew with half the grace

Without our heads, 'twill be a goodly sight

To see our faces grin upon two poles,

To tell the gaping world how we came thither

To pe [...], and stink in unity, be wise,

And leave Thomazo to the Law.

Vrs.

Can you be so uncharitable, oh Tyrant!

Enter Duke, Marino.

May it please your excellence, my husband and

My self.

Ro.

She has put me in already.

Vrs.

Humbly beseech a pardon for our son.

Du.

Your son Giovanni, where is he?

Vrs.

He waites in the next Chamber.

Du.

Call him in. What is the fact?

It must be an offence next treason, if we

Deny him pardon.

Ro.

I fear 'tis much about the matter.

Du.

What is the fact?

Enter Giovanni.

Vr.

We do beseech you grant a pardon first,

And then you shall know all.

Du.

That were preposterous justice.

Why dost thou kneel Giovanni?

Gio.

To beg your mercy sir

To him, for whom my mother kneeles

Du.

[Page 74]

She askes thy pardon.

Gio.

Mine? Let me offend first.

Du.

Hee's innocent.

Vr.

No matter what he saies, my husband knowes it.

Ro.

Shee'l make sure of me.

Vr.

And if your highnesse will but grant the pardon,

Your grace shall not repent, but thank me for

The best discovery; i'le not bribe your excellence,

But I will give you for it, what you'l hold

As pretious as your Dukedome.

Du.

The old woman

Raves, you had best send her to the house

Of the insani.

Ro.

So shee's to be whip'd already,

Du.

What do you say Roberto!

Ro.

I say nothing,

But that I think my wife will hardly mend upon't.

Du.

Upon what?

Ro.

On whipping, if it like your highnesse,

She cannot feel those small corrections.

I have taw'd hunting Poles, and hemp upon her,

And yet could do no good.

Ur.

Let not your grace mind him, give me a pardon,

And if I do not make good all my promise,

You shall hang my husband, and flea me alive.

Du.

What's that paper?

Ro.

Ge't him, thou shouldst have done this afore.

I am prepar'd, more bone and flesh upon me

If the businesse come to hanging, were a curtesie.

Urs.

Nay 'tis there in black and white, you'l find it▪

Giovanni is your son, that was the Gardiner,

And he that is in prison poor Thomazo

My lawfully begotten.

Du.

Chang'd in their infancie.

Urs.

And since conceal'd out of ambition

To see my own a great man.

Ro.

[Page 75]

I feel the knot under my ear.

Vr.

I durst not trust my husband.

Ro.

That was not much amisse.

Vrs.

He has not wit enough to keep my secrets.

Ro.

Oh what a blessing has that man whose wife

Knowes when to hold her peace.

Mar.

Sir, if we may compare their tracts of life,

I shall believe your noblenesse liv'd there

In Giovanni, not supprest in poverty,

And their rude course condition, notwithstanding

The helpes of Education, which seldome

Do correct nature in Thomazo's low

And abject spirit.

Du.

I'me too full, I must

Disperse my swelling joyes or be dissolv'd,

Summon our friends, invite Bellaura hither.

Art thou my son?

Gio.

I would I were so blest.

Iow'd you duty sir before, and now

My knees encline with double force to humble

The doubtfull Giovanni.

Du.

Let that name

Be lost, take all my blessings in Thomazo.

Vrs.

What think you of this Roberto.

Ro.

Why? I think

The Duke is mad, and when he finds his wits

Hee'l hang us both yet.

Du.

Now I find the reason.

And secret of my nature: but tell me

What after so long silence, made you now

Open the cloud that had conceal'd my son?

Ro.

I know not sir—now Ursula.

Vr.

The weaknesse of a woman, and a mother

That would be loath to see her naturall child

Dye like a bird upon a bough for treason,

Nature will work, a mother is a mother,

[Page 76]And your son, by the opening of this riddle

Restor'd, I hope all shall be well agen.

Ro.

Would I were fair wash'd, yet out of my pickle.

Vr.

What think you now?

Ro.

I wish, I wish I could not think.

Enter Senators, Cornari.

Cor.

We hear of wonders sir.

Du.

This is my son.

Cor.

With our most glad embraces let us hold you.

Gio.

Ever a servant to your gravities.

Ro.

The skie clears up.

Enter Bellaura, Marino.

Du.

Bellaura, now receive not Giovanni,

But Contarini's son my deer Thomazo.

Bel.

My heart hath wings to meet him.

Tho.

Oh my happinesse!

Du.

Pause a little.

Ro.

I melt agen Vrsula, the Duke points at us,

And carries fireworks in his eyes,

Du.

Though we did grant a pardon for your son,

You are subject to the censure of our lawes

For this imposture.

Ro.

I knew't would come, now telltale, will you beg

The favour we may hang till we be dead?

Sweet Giovanni Thomazo speak for us,

Not guilty my Lord, I am not guilty,

Spare me, and let my wife be burn'd or hang'd,

Or drown'd, or any thing you shall think fit,

You shall find me reasonable,

Who shall beg our pardon?

Vr.

Mercy oh mercy.

Tho.

Let me beseech you for their pardon sir.

They alwaies us'd me civilly.

Bel.

Let me joine.

Sen.

And all of us, this is a day of triumph.

Du.

It shall be so.

Ro.

[Page 77]

A Jubile, a Jubile, here comes Thomazo,

I shall speak treason presently.

Vrs.

Now heaven preserve your sweet graces.

Enter Thomazo, Malipiero.

Gio.

Mercy, oh mercy, my indulgent father.

Vrs.

Art thou come boy?

Gio.

Boy? stand away good woman.

Vrs.

I have procur'd thy pardon, mary have I child.

Gio.

I wo'd 'twere true, thou wert ever a loving Crone.

Ro.

You may believe her son.

Gio.

Son, the old fellow's mad.

Urs.

I say thou art pardon'd,

You must kneel to me now, and this good

Old man, and ask us blessing.

Mar.

Your name is prov'd Giovanni now, the Duke

Has found another son.

Gio.

What shall become of me?

Du.

You shall be onely punish'd to return,

And dig as he hath done, and change your name

To Giovanni, nature was not willing

You should forget your trade, where's my Thomazo?

Gio.

Are you my father?

Ro.

So my wife assures me.

Gio.

Are you my mother?

Vrs.

I my deere child.

Gio.

And you Signior Thomazo, that was I?

Tho.

And you Giovanni with the inside outward

Gio.

And must I be a Gardiner? I am glad on't.

Pray give me a couple of blessings, and a spade,

And fico for this frippery. I'le thank

My destiny that has yet kept my thread

To a better use then hanging.

Corn.

Let nothing

Of punishment profane this day, I must

Implore your mercy upon this young man,

[Page 78]Whose future life may recompence his past

Impieties, and make him serviceable

To honor and good men.

Du.

You shew [...]arity,

If I have heard a truth in some sad stories,

Hee's yours and [...]don'd.

Ma.

Y'are a [...]acle

Of goodnesse, 'tis too much to look upon,

Whom I have with such impudence offended.

Command me sir abroad untill by some

Years well emploid, a pennance for my crimes

I may be thought one worthy to be own'd

Your Kinsman.

Du.

Agen, welcome my Thomazo,

My dearest pledge, till now I was no father;

In him, the want of hope my thoughts opprest,

In thee my fortunes, and my name are blest.

Exeunt.

FINIS.

[Page]

This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal. The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission.