The feign'd curtizans, or, A nights intrigue a comedy : as it is acted at the Dukes Theatre / written by Mrs. A. Behn.

ACT III. SCENE I.

Enter Julio and his Page.

Jul.

HOw! the Lady whom I followed from St. Peters Church a Curtizan?

Pag.

A Curtizan my Lord, fair as the Morning, and as young.

Jul.

I know she's fair and young, but is she to be had boy?

Pag.

My Lord she is—her Footman told me, she was a Zittella.

Jul.

How a Zittella!—a Virgin, 'tis impossible.

Pag.

I cannot swear it Sir, but so he told me? he said she had a world of Lovers: her Name is Silvianetta Sir, and her Lodgings—

Jul.

I know't, are on the Corso; a Curtizan! and a Zittella too? a pretty contradiction! but I'le bate her the last, so I might enjoy her as the first, what ere the price be, I'me resolv'd upon the adventure; and will this minute prepare my self.

[Going off, enters Mur. and Octa.

—hah—does the light deceive me, or is that indeed my Uncle, in earnest conference with a Cavalier:—'tis he—I'le step aside till he's past, lest he hinders this Nights diversion:

[Goes aside

Mur.

I say 'twas rashly done, to fight him unexamin'd.

Oct.

I need not ask, my reason has inform'd me, and I'me convinc't where ere he has conceald her, that she is fled with Fillamour.

Jul.

Who is't they speak of?

Mar.

Well well, sure my Ancestors committed some horrid crime, against Nature, that she sent this Pest of woman-kind into our Family,—two Neeces for my share,—by Heaven a proportion sufficient to undo six Generations.

Jul.

Hah! two Neeces, what of them?

[Aside.

Mur.

I am like to give a blessed account of 'em to their Brother Ju∣lio my Nephew, at his return, there's a new plague now,—but my comfort is I shall be mad and there's an end on't.

[Weeps.

Jul.

My curiosity must be satisfied,—have patience Noble Sir,—

Mur.

Patience is a flatterer Sir,—and an Ass Sir, and I'le have none on't—hah what art thou?

Jul.

Has five or six years, made ye lose the remembrance of your Nephew—Julio!

Mur.

Julio! wou'd I had met thee going to thy Grave.

[Weeps

Jul.

Why so Sir?

Mur.

Your sisters Sir, your sisters are both gone.—

[Weeps.

Jul.

How gone Sir?

Mur.

Run away Sir, flown Sir.

Jul.

Heavens! which way?

Mur.

Nay, who can tell the ways of fickle women,—in short Sir, your sister Marcella was to have been Married, to this Noble Gentle∣man,—Nay was contracted to him, fairly contracted in my own Chappel, but no sooner was his back turn'd,—but in a pernicious Moon-light Night she shews me a fair pair of heels, with the young Baggage your other sister Cornelia, who was just come from the Mo∣nastery where I bred her, to see her sister married.

Jul.

A curse upon the Sex, why must mans honour Depend upon their Frailty? —Come—give me but any light which way they went, And I will trace 'em with that carefull Vengeance.—

Oct.

Spoke like a man, that understands his Honour, And I can guess how we may finde the Fugitives.

Jul.

Oh Name it quickly Sir!

Oct.

There was a young Cavalier—some time at Vitterbo, Who I confess had charms, Heaven has denied to me That trifle Beauty, which was made to please, Vain foolish Woman, which the brave and wise, Want leasure to design:

Jul.

And what of him!

Oct.

This fine gay thing came in your sisters way, and made that conquest Nature meant such fools for: and Sir she's fled with him.

Jul.

Oh show me the Man, the daring hardy Villain,

Bring me but in the view of my Revenge,—and if I fail to take it, Brand me with everlasting Infamy.

Oct.

That we must leave to Fortune, and our Industry,—Come Sir, lets walk and think best what to do.—

[Going down the Scene, Enter Fill. and Gall.

Fill.

Is not that Julio—Boy run and call him back.

[Ex. Boy re-enters with Jul.

Jul.

Oh Fillamour, I've heard such killing news since last I left thee.

Fill.

What prethee?

Jul.

I had a sister Friend—dear as my life, And bred with all the Virtues of her Sex; No Vestals at the Holy fire employ'd themselves In innocenter businesse then this Virgin; Till Love! the Fatall Feaver of her heart, Betraid her harmlesse hours: And just upon the point of being Married, The thief stole in, and Rob'd us of this treasure: She's left her Husband, Parents, and her Honour, And's fled with the base ruiner of her Virtue.

Fill.

And lives the Villain durst affront ye thus?

Jul.

He does!

Gall.

Where, in what distant World?

Jul.

I know not.

Fill.

What is he call'd?

Jul.

I know not neither,—some God direct me to the Ravisher! And if he scape my rage!

May Cowards point me out, for one of their tame herd.

Fill.

In all your quarells I must joyn my sword.

Gall.

And if you want,—here's another Sir,—that though it be not often drawn in anger, nor cares to be, shall not be idle in good company.

Jul.

I thank ye both, and if I have occasion, will borrow their as∣sistance, but I must leave you for a minute, I'le wait on you anon.—

[They all three walk as down the street talking, Enter Laura, with her Equipage.

Lau.

Beyond my wish, I'me got into his Friendship, But oh how distant Friendship is from Love! That's all bestowed on the fair Prostitute! —Ah Silvio, when he took me in his Armes, Pressing my willing Bosome to his breast, Kissing my cheek, calling me Lovely youth, And wondering how such Beauty, and such bravery, Met in a Man so young! ah then my Boy! Then in that happy minute, How neer was I to telling all my soul, My blushes and my sighs, were all prepar'd

My Eyes cast down my trembling lips just parting,— But still as I was ready to begin, He crys out Silvianetta! And to prevent mine, tells me all his Love! —But see—he's here.—

[Fill. and Gall. coming up the scene.

Gall.

Come lay by all sullen unresolves! for now the hour of the Berjeare approaches, Night, that was made for Lovers!—Hah! my dear Sans Caeur? my life! my soul! my joy! Thou art of my opinion!

Lau.

I'me sure I am what are it be!

Gall.

Whe my Friend here, and I have sent and paid our Fine for a small Tenement of pleasure, and I'me for taking present possession;—but hold—if you shou'd be a Rivall after all!

Lau.

Not in your Silvianetta! My Love has a Nice appetite, And must be fed with high uncommon delicates, I have a Mistress Sir, of quality! Fair! as imagination, paints young Angells! Wanton and gay as was the first Corina That charm'd our best of Poets, Young as the Spring, and cheerfull as the Birds That wellcome in the day! Witty as fancy makes the Revelling Gods, And equally as bounteous when she blesses!

Gall.

Ah for a fine young whore, with all these charms! but that same quality allays the joy, there's such a dam'd ado with the Obligati∣on, that half the pleasures lost in Ceremony,—Here! for a thousand Crowns I raign alone, Revell all day in Love without controle.—But come to our business, I have given order for Musick, Dark Lanthorns, and Pistolls.

[This while Fill. stands studying.

Fill.

—Death if it shou'd not be Marcella now!

[Pausing aside.

Gall.

Prethee no more considering,—resolve and let's about it.

Fill.

I wou'd not tempt my heart again! for Love What ere it may be in anothers breast, In mine, 'twill turn to a Religious fire! And so to burn for her! a common Mistress, Wou'd be an Infamy below her practice!

Gall.

Oh if that be all, doubt not Harry but an hours conversation with Euphemia, will convert it to as lewd a flame, as a man wou'd wish.

Lau.

What a coyles here about a Curtizan! what ado to perswade a man to a blessing all Rome is languishing for in vain:—Come Sir, we must deal with him, as Physitians do with peevish children, force him to take what will cure him!

Fill.

And like those dam'd Physitians, kill me for want of method, no, I know my own distemper best, and your applications will make •…•…e mad.

Gall

Poxon't, that one cannot love a woman like a man, but one must love like an Ass.

Lau.

S'hart, I'le be bound to ly with all the women in Rome, with less ado then you are brought to one.

Gall.

Hear ye that Henry, s'death art not asham'd to be instructed by one so young!—but see—the star there appears,—the star that conduct thee to the shore of bliss—

She comes let's feel thy

[Marcella and Cornelia above.

Heart! she comes!

So breaks the day on the glad Eastern Hills!

Or the bright God of Rays from Thetis Lap:—

A Rapture now dear lad, and then fall too, for thou art

Old dog at a long Grace.—

Fill.

Now I'me meer man again, with all his frailties,—

[Aside.

—Bright lovely creature!—

Gall.

Damn it, how like my Ladys Eldest Son was that.

Fill.

May I hope my sacrifice! may be accepted by you?—by Hea∣ven it must be she! still she appears more like.—

[Aside.

Mar.

I ve only time to tell you Night approches, And th•…•…n I will expect you,

[Enter Crapine, gazes on the Ladys.

Crap.

'Tis the, Donna Marcella on my life, with the young wild 〈◊〉〈◊〉!—hah—vonders the English Cavalier too; nay then by this hand I'le be paid for all my fruitless jants: for this good news—stay let me mark the House.—

Mar.

Now to my disguise!

[Ex. Marcella.

Gall.

And have you no kinde message to send to my heart; cannot this good Example, instruct you how to make me happy?

Cor.

Faith stranger I must consider first, she's skillfull in the Mar∣•…•…handize of hearts, and has dealt in Love with so good success hitherto, she may lose on venture, and never miss it in her stock, but this is my first, and shou'd it prove to be a bad bargain, I were undone for ever.

Gall.

I dare secure the goods sound,—

Cor.

And I believe will not ly long upon my hands.

Gall.

Faith, that's according as you'l dispose on't Madam,—for let me tell you—gad a good handsome proper fellow, is as staple a com∣modity as any's in the Nation,—but I wou'd be reserv'd for your own use! faith take a sample to Night, and as you like it, the whole pecce, and that's fair and honest dealing I think, or the Devils in't.

Cor.

Ah stranger,—you have been so over-liberal of those same samples of yours, that I doubt they have spoild the sale of the rest,—cou'd you not assord think ye, to throw in a little Love and constancy; to inch out that want of honesty of yours.

Gall.

Love! oh in abundance! By those dear Eyes, by that soft smiling Mouth; By ever secret grace, thou hast about thee,

I love thee with a vigorous, eager passion, —Be kinde dear Silvianetta—prethee do, Say you believe and make me blest to Night?

Crap.

Silvianetta! so, that's the Name she has rifl'd for Cornelia, I perceive.

Cor.

If I shou'd be so kind-hearted! what good use wou'd you make of so obliging an opportunity?

Gall.

That which the happy Night was first ordain'd for.

Cor.

Well Signior 'tis coming on, and then I'le try what courage the darkness will inspire me with:—till then—farwell.—

Gall.

Till then a thousand times adieu.—

[Blowing up kisses to her.

Phil.

Ah Madam we're undone,—yonders Crapine your Uncles Vallet.—

Cor.

Now a curse on him; shall we not have one Night with ou•…•… Cavaliers—let's retire, and continue to out-wit him, or never more pretend to't, Adieu Signior Cavalier—remember Night.—

Gall.

Or may I lose my sense to all Eternity.

[Kisses his fingers and bows, she returns it for a while.

Lau.

Gods, that all this that looks at least like Love, Shou'd be dispenc•…•…t to one insensible! Whilst every sillable of that dear vallue, Whisper'd to me, wou'd make my soul all Extasy, —Oh spare that Treasure for a gratefull purchase; And buy that common ware with trading Gold, Love! is too rich a price:—I shall betray my self.—

[Aside.

Gall.

Away, that's an hereticial opinion and which this 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Reason must convince thee of: That Love is Love, where ever beauty is, Nor can the Name of whore, make beauty less.

Enter Marcella like a Man, with a Cloak about her.

Mar.

Signior, is your Name Fillamour?

Fill.

It is, what wou'd you Sir.—

Mar.

I have a letter for you—from Vitterbo, and your Marcella Sir.

[gives it him]

Fill.

Hah—Vitterbo! and Marcella! It shocks me like the Ghost of some forsaken Mistress, That met me in the way to happiness, With some new long'd for Beauty!

[Opens it, reads.

Mar.

Now I shall try thy Virtue, and my Fate.—

[Aside.

Fill.

What is't that checks the joy, that shou'd surprize me at the receipt of this!

Gall.

How now! what's the cold fit coming on?

[Pawses.

Fill.

I have no power to go—where this—invites me— Which I prove, 'tis no encrease of flame that warms my heart, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a new fire just kindled from those—eyes—

Whose rayes I sinde more piercing then Marcella's.

Gall.

—Ay Gad a thousand times—prethee what's the matter.

Mar.

Oh this false—souly man—wou'd I had leasure To be reveng'd for this inconstancy!

[Aside

Fill.

—But still she want's that Virtue I admire!

Gall.

Virtue! s'death thou art always fumbling, upon that dull string that makes no Musick:—What Letters that?

[reads.]

If the first Confession I ever made of Love be gratefull to you, come arm'd to night with a friend or too; and behinde the Garden of the Foun∣tains, you will receive—hah Marcella!—Oh damn it, from your honest woman!—Well I see the devil's never so busy with a man, as when he has resolv'd upon any goodness! s'death what a rubs here in a fair cast,—how is't man-Alegremente! bear up, defy him and all's his works.

Fill.

But I have sworn, sworn that I lov'd Marcella! and Honour Friend obliges me to go, take her away and marry her,—And I conjure thee to assist me too.

Gall.

What to night, this Night, that I have given to Silvianetta! and you have promis'd to the fair—Euphemia!

Lau.

If he shou'd go, he ruins my design,

[Aside.

—Nay if your word Sir—be already past.—

Fill.

'Tis true, I gave my promise to Euphemia! but that to women of her trade, is easily absolv'd.

Gall.

Men keep not Oaths for the sakes of the wise Magistrates, to whom they're made, but their own Honour Harry: And is't not much a greater crime to Rob a Gallant, hospitable man of his Neece, who has treated you with Confidence, and Friendship, then to keep touch with a well meaning whore, my Consciencious friend!

Lau.

Infinite degrees Sir!

Gall.

Besides, thou'st an hour or two good, between this and the time requir'd to meet Marcella.

Lau.

Which an industrious Lover, wou'd manage to the best ad∣vantage.

Gall.

That were not given over to Virtue, and constancy—two the best excuses I know for idlenesse.

Fill.

—Yes—I may see this woman.

Gall.

Whe God a marcy lad!

Fill.

—And break my chains,—if possible.

Gall.

Thou wilt give a good essay to that I'le warrant thee, Before she part with thee! come let's about it.

[They go out on either side of Fill. perswading him.

Mar.

He's gone! the Curtizan has got the day.

[Aside to Mar.

Vice has the start of Virtue, every way, And for one blessing honest wives obtain, The happyer Mistress does a thousand gain!

I'le home—and practice, all their Art to prove, That nothing is so cheaply gain'd as Love!

[Exeunt.

Gall.

Stay what farce is this,—prethee let's see a little.

[offering to go

[Enter Sir Signal, Mr. Tickletext, with his Cloke ty'd about him, a great Ink-horn ty'd at his Girdle, and a great Folio under his Arm, Petro drest like an Antiquary.

—How Now Mr. Tickletext, what drest as if you were going a Pill∣grimage to Jerusalem.

Tick.

I make no such prophane Journeys, Sir.

Gall.

But where have you been Mr. Tickletext.

Sir Sig.

Whe Sir, this most Reverend and Renowned Antiquary, has been showing us Monimental Rarities and Antiquities.

Gall.

'Tis Petro that—Rogue!

Fill.

—But what Folio have you gotten there Sir, Knox, or Car•…•…∣wright?

Pet.

Nay if he be got into that heap of Nonsense, I'le steal off and undress.

[Aside.

[Ex. Petro.

[Tick. Opening the Book,

Tick.

A small Vollum Sir, into which I transcribe the most memorable and remarkable transactions of the day.

Lau.

That doubtless must be worth seeing.

Fill.

[Reads]

April the Twentieth, arose a very great storm of Wind, Thunder, Lightning, and Rain,—which was a shrew'd sign of foul weather.

Fill.

The 22th. 9 of our 12 chikens getting loose, flew over-bord, the other three miraculous escaping, by being eaten by me, that Mor∣ning for breakfast.

Sir Sig

Harkey Galliard—thou art my Friend, and 'tis not like a man o•…•… •…•…nour, to conceal any thing from on's Friend,—know then I am th•…•… fortunate Rascall, that ever broke bread,—I am this Nigh•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sirra—the finest, the most delicious young Harlot, Mum—〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…e Rose—in all Rome! of Barberacho's acquaintance.

Gall

—H•…•…h—my woman on my life! and will she be kind!

Sir Sig.

Kind, hang kindnesse man, I'me resolv'd upon conquest by parly •…•…y force.

Gall

Spoke like a Roman of the first Race, when Noble Rapes not whin•…•…g Courtship, did the Lovers business.

Sir Sig.

Sha Rapes man! I mean by force of mony, pure dint of Co•…•… •…•…aith and troth: for I have given 500 Crowns enterance already, & •…•…ar Dios Baccus 'tis tropo Caro—tropo Caro Mr. Galliard.

Gall.

And what's this high priz'd Ladys Name Sir?

Sir Sig.

La Silvianetta,—and Lodges on the Corso, not far from St. James's of the incurables—very well scituated in case disaster—hah.—

Gall.

Very well,—and did not your wise worship know, this Silvi∣anetta was my Mistress?

Sir Sig.

How! his Mistress! what a damn'd noddy was! to name her!

Gall.

De ye hear fool! renounce me this 〈◊〉〈◊〉 instantly, or I'le first discover it to your Governor, and then c•…•…t your throat Sir.

Sir Sig.

Oh Doux M•…•…nt—dear Galliard—Renounce her,—Corpo d•…•… mi that I will soul and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 if she belong to thee man.—

Gall.

No more—look•…•…,—look you forget her Name—or but to think of her—farewell—

[Nods at him.

Sir Sig.

Fare well quoth •…•…e—'tis well I had the Art of dissembling after all, here had been a •…•…eet Broyl upon the Coast else.—

Fill.

Very well, I'le trouble my self to reade no more, since I know you'l be so kinde to the world to make it p•…•…lique?

Tick.

At my return Sir, for the good of the Nation, I will Print it, and I think it will deserve it.

Lau.

This is a precious Rogue, to make a Tutor of.

Fill.

Yet these Mooncalss, dare pretend to the breeding of our youth, and the time will come, I fear, when none shall be reputed to travel like a man of quality, who has not the advantage of being im∣pos'd upon, by one of these •…•…edantique Novices, who instructs the young heir, in what himself is most profoundly ignorant of.

Gall.

Come, 'tis dark and time for our design,—your servant Signi∣ors.

[Exeunt Fill. Gall. and Lau.

Lau.

I'le home, and watch the kind deceiving minute, that may conduct him by mistake to me.

Enter Petro, like Barberacho, just as Tick. and Sir Sig. are going out.

Sir Sig.

Oh Barberacho! we are undone! Oh the Diavillo take that Master you sent me.

Pet.

Master, what Master?

Sir Sig.

Whe Signior Morigoroso!

Pet.

Mor—oso—what shou'd he be?

Sir Sig.

A Civillity-Master he shou'd have been, to have taught us good manners,—but the Cornuto cheated us most damnably, and by a willing mistake taught us nothing in the world but wit.

Pet.

Oh abominable knavery! whe what a kinde of man was he?—

Sir Sig,

—whe—much such another as your self:—

Tick.

Higher, Signior, higher!

Sir Sig.

Aye somewhat higher—but just of his pitch.

Pet.

Well Sir, and what of this man?

Sir Sig.

Only pick't our pockets, that's all.

Tick.

Yes, and cozen'd us of our Rings.

Sir Sig.

Ay, and gave us Cackamarda Orangata for snuff.

Tick.

And his blessing to boot when he had done.

Sir Sig.

A veng'ance on't, I feel it still.

Pet.

Whe this 'tis to do things of your own heads, for I sent no such Signior Moroso—but I'le see what I can do to retrive m—I am now a little in haste, farwell.—

[Offers to go. Tick. goes out by him and jogs him.

Tick.

Remember to meet me—farewell Barberacho.

[Goes out, Sir Sig. pulls him.

Sir Sig.

Barberacho—is the Lady ready?

Tick.

Is your money ready?

Sir Sig.

Whe now, tho I am threatned, and kill'd, and beaten, and kickt about, this intrigue I must advance!

[aside]

—but dost think there's no danger?

Pet.

What in a delicate young amorous Lady, Signior?

Sir Sig.

No, No, mum, I don't much fear the Lady, but this same mad fellow Galliard, I hear, has a kinde of a hankering after her—Now dare not I tell him what a discovery I have made.

[Aside.

Pet.

Let me alone to secure you, meet me in the Piatzo Despagnia, as soon as you can get your self in order; where the two fools shall meet, and preven eithers coming.

[Aside.

Sir Sig.

Enough,—here's a Bill for 500 Crowns more upon my Merchant, you know him by a good token, I lost the last sum you re∣ceiv'd for me, a pox of that handsell, away here's company.

Ex. Pet. Enter Octavio.

Now will I disguise my self, according to the mode of the Roman Ina∣morato's; and deliver my self upon the place appointed.

[Ex. Sir Sig.

Oct.

On the Corso didst thou see 'em?

Crap.

On the Corso my Lord, in discourse with three Cavaliers, one of which has given me many a Pistol, to let him into the Garden a Nights at Vitterbo: to talk with Don•…•… Marcella, from her Chamber window, I think I shou'd remember him.

Oct.

Oh that thought fires me, with anger fit for my Revenge,

[Aside.

And they're to Serinade 'em thou say'st.

Crap.

I did my Lord! and if you can have patience till they come, you will finde your Rival in this very place, if he keep his word.

Oct.

I do believe thee, and have prepared my Bravos to attack him: if I can Act but my Revenge to Night, how shall I worship Fortune! keep out of sight, and when I give the word be ready all. I hear some coming let's walk off a little.—

[Enter Marcella in mans clothes, and Philipa as a woman, with a Lanthorn Oct. and Crap. go off the other way.

Mar.

Thou canst never convince me, but if Crapine saw us, and gaz'd so long upon us, he must know us too, and then what hin∣ders but by a dilligent watch about the House, they will surprize us, ere we have secured our selves from 'em.

Phil.

And how will this, exposing your self to danger prevent 'em.

Mar.

My designe now is, to prevent Fillamours coming into dan∣ger, by hindring his approach to this house: I wou'd preserve the kinde ingrate with any hazard of my own: and 'tis better to dye then fall into the hands of Octavio. I'me desperate with that thought,—and fear no danger! however be you ready at the door, and when I ring admit me.—ha—who comes here.—

[Enter Tickletext with a Periwig and Cravat of Sir Signals: A Sword by his side, and a dark Lanthorn, she opens hers, looks on him and goes out.

Tick.

A man! now am I though an old sinner, as timerous as a young thief, 'tis a great inconvenience in these Popish Countrys, that a man cannot have liberty to steal to a wench without danger; not that I need fear who sees me except Galliard, who suspecting my busi∣ness, will go neer to think I am wickedly inclin'd, Sir Signal I have left hard at his study, and Sir Henry is no Nocturnal Inamorato, unless like me he dissemble it,—well Certo 'tis a wonderfull pleasure to de∣ceive the World: And as a learned man well observ'd, that the sin of wenching lay in the habit only: I having laid that aside, Timothy Tickletext principal holder forth of the Covent Garden Conventicle, Chaplain of Buffoon-Hall in the County of Kent, is free to recreate himself.

[Enter Gall. with a dark Lanthorn.

Gall.

Where the devil is this Fillamour? And the Musick: which way cou'd he go to lose me thus!

[Looks towards the door.

—he is not yet come.—

Tick.

Not yet come,—that must be Barberacho—where are ye honest Barberacho where are ye?

[Groping towards Gall.

Gall.

Hah! Barberacho? that name I am sure is us'd by none but Sir Signal and his Coxcomb Tutor, it must be one of those—where are ye Signior, where are ye?

[Goes towards him, and opens the Lan∣thorn—and shuts it straight.

—Oh 'tis the Knight,—are you there Signior?

Tick.

Oh art thou come, honest Rascal—conduct me quickly, con∣duct me to the Beautifull and fair Silvian•…•…tta!

[Gives him his hand.

Gall.

Yes, when your dogships damn'd, Silvianetta! S'death is she a whore for fools!

[Draws.

Tick.

Hah Mr. Galliard, as the devil wou'd have it:—I'me undone if he sees me!

[He retires hastily, Gall. gropes for him.

Gall.

Where are you Fop: Buffoon! Knight!

[Tickletext retiring hastily runs against Octavio, who is just en∣tering, almost beats him down, Oct. strikes him a good blow, beats him back and draws: Tick. gets close up in a corner of the stage, Oct. gropes for him as Gall. does, and both meet and fight with each other.

—What dare you draw,—you have the impudence to be valliant

then in the dark,

[they pass]

I wou'd not kill the Rogue,—death you can fight then, when there's a woman •…•…n the case!

Oct.

I hope 'tis Fillamour!

[aside]

you'le finde I can, and possibly may spoil your making love to Night!

Gall.

Egad sweet heart and t•…•…t may be, one civil thrust will do't:—And 'twere a damn'd rude th•…•…ng to disappoint so fine a woman,—therefore I'le withdraw whilst I'me well.

[He slips out

[Enter Sir Signal, with a Masquerad•…•…g Coat over his clothes, with∣out a Wigg or Cravat, with a dark Lanthorn.

Sir Sig.

Well I have most neatly escapt my Tutor; and in this dis∣guise defy the devil to claim his own,—ah Caspeto de Deavilo!—What's that?

[Adva•…•…ing softly, and groping with his hands, meets the point of Oct. sword, as he is groping for Gall.

Oct.

Traytor darest thou not stand my sword!

Sir Sig.

Hah! swords! no Signior—scusa mea Signior,—

[Hops to the door: And feeling for his way with his out-strecht Arms, runs his Lanthorn in Julio's face who is just entering; finds he's oppos'd with a good push backward, and slips aside into a corner over against Tickletext: Julio meets Octavio and fights him, Oct. falls, Julio opens his Lanthorn and sees his mistake.

Jul.

Is it you Sir?

Oct.

Julio! from what mistake grew all this violence?

Jul.

That I shou'd ask of you, who meet you arm'd against me.

Oct.

I find the Night has equally deceiv'd us; and you are fitly come! to share with me the hopes of dear Revenge!

[Gropes for his Lanthorn which is dropt.

Jul.

I'de rather have pursu'd my kinder passion! Love! and desire! that brought me forth to Night!

Oct.

I've learnt where my false Rival is to be this Evening, And if you'l joyn your sword, you'l finde it well imploy'd.

Jul.

Lead on, I'me as impatient of Revenge as you.—

Oct.

Come this way then, you'l find more aids to serve us.

[Go out.

Tick.

—So! thanks be prais'd all's still again, this fright were e∣nough to mortify any Lover of less magnanimity then my self,—well of all sins, this itch of whoring is the most hardy,—the most impu∣dent in repulses; the most vigilant in watching, most patient in wait∣ing, most frequent in dangers: in all disasters but disappointment, a Philosopher! yet if Barberacho come not quickly, my Philosophy will be put to't certo.

[This while Sir Signal i•…•… venturing from his post, listening and slowly advancing towards the middle of the stage.

Sir Sig.

The coast is once more clear, and I may venture my carcass forth again,—though such a salutation as the last, wou'd make me very unfit for the matter in hand,—the battoon I cou'd bear with the

Fortitude and courage of Hero: But these dangerous sharps I never lov'd; what different rancounters have I met withall to Night, Corpo de me; a man may more safely pass the gulf of lyons, then convoy himself into a Bawdy house in Rome, but I hope all's past, and I will say with Alexander:—Vivat Esperance en despetto del Fatto.

[advances a little.

Tick.

Sure I heard a Noise,—No 'twas only my surmise!

[They both advance softly, meeting just in the middle of the Stage, and coming close up to each other! both cautiously start back: And stand a tipto in the posture of fear, then gently feeling for each other, (after listening and hearing no n•…•…ise) draw back their hands at touching each others; and shrinking up their shoulders, make grimases of more fear!

Tick.

Que Equesto.

Sir Sig.

Hah a mans voice!—I'le try if I can fright him hence!

[Aside.

Una Malladette Spirito Incarnate!

[In a horrible tone.

Tick.

Hah, Spiritto Incarnate! that devils voice I shou'd know!

[aside.

Sir Sig.

See Signior! Una spirito! which is to say, un spiritalo, Imor∣tallo Inc•…•…rporalla, Inanimate, Imaterialle, Philosophicale, Invisible—Un in∣telligible—Diavillo!

[In the same tone.

Tick

Ay ay, 'tis my hopefull pupill! upon the same design with me, my life on't,—Cunning young whoremaster!—I'le cool your courage—good Signior Diavillo! if you be the Diavillo I have unacer∣taina Imaterialle Invisible Conjuratione, that will so neatly lay your Inani∣mate unintelligible Diavilloship.—

[Pulls out his wooden sword.

Sir Sig.

How! he must needs be valliant indeed that dares fight with the devil.

[Endeavours to get away, Tick. beats him about the stage.

—Ah Signior Signior Mia! ah—Caspeto de Baccus,—he cornuto, I am a damn'd silly devil that have no dexterity in vanishing.

[Gropes and finds the door—going out, meets just entring Fillamour Galliard with all the Musick—he retires and stands close.

—Hah,—what have we here new mischief.—

[Tick. and he stands against each other, on either side of the stage.

Fill.

Prethee how came we to lose ye?

Gall.

I thought I had follow'd ye,—but'tis well we are met again, come tune your pipes,—

[They play a little, Enter Marcella as before.

Mar.

This must be he.

[Goes up to 'em.

Gall.

Come come, your Song boy your Song.

[Whilst'tis singing Enter Octavio, Julio, Crapine, and Bravo's!

The SONG.

Crudo Amore, Crudo Amore, bis. Il mio Core non fa per te Suffrir non vo tormenti Senza mai sperar mar ce Belta che sia Tiranna, Bolta che sia Tiranna Dell meo offetto recetto non•…•… Il tuo rigor singunna Se le pene Le catene Tenta auolgere al mio pi•…•… See see Crudel Amore bis. Il mio Core non fa per te.

Lusinghiero, Lusinghier•…•…, bis. •…•…ui non Credo alta tua fe L'incendio del tuo foce Nel mio Core pui viuo none Belta che li die Luoce Belta che li die Luoce Ma il rigor L'Ardore s'bande Io non sato tuo gioce Ch'il Veleno Del mio seno Vergoroso faggito se n'e. See see Crudel Amore bis. Il mio Core non fa per te.

Oct.

'Tis they we look for, draw and be ready.——

Tick.

Hah draw—then there's no safty here certo.

[Aside.

[Octavio Julio and their party draw, and fight with Fill. and Gall. Marcella ingages on their si•…•…e, all fight, the Musick confusedly a∣mongst 'em; Gall. l•…•…ses his sword, and in the hurry gets a Base Viol, and happens to strike Tickletext, who is getting away—his head breaks its way quite through, and it hangs about his neck, they fight out.

Enter Petro with a Lanthorn. Sir Signal stands close still.

Tick.

Oh undone, undone, where am I, where am I.

Pet.

Hah—that's the voice of my Amorous Ananias,—or I am mistaken—what the devil's the matter.

[Opens his Lanthorn.

—Where are ye Sir,—hah cuts so—what new found pillory have we here?

Tick.

Oh honest Barberacho undo me, undo me quickly.

Pet.

So I design Sir, as fast as I can—or lose my aim—there Sir there: all's well—I have set you free, come follow me the back way, into the house.

[Ex. Petro and Tickletext.

Enter Fillamour and Marcella, with their swords drawn Gall. after 'em.

Gall.

A plague upon 'em, what a quarters here for a wench, as if there were no more i'th Nation,—wou'd I'de my sword again.

[Gropes for it.

Mar.

Which way shall I direct him to be safer,—how is it Sir, I hope you are not hurt.

Fill.

Not that I feel, what art thou asks't so kindly.

Mar.

A servant to the Roman Curtizan, who sent me forth to wait your coming Sir, but finding you in danger shar'd it with you,—come let me lead you into safety Sir.—

Fill.

Thou'st been too kinde to give me cause to doubt thee.

Mar.

Follow me Sir, this key will give us entrance through the Garden.

[Exeunt.

Enter Octavio with his sword in his hand.

Oct.

! Oh what damn'd luck had I so poorly to be vanquish't when all is husht, I know he will return,—therefore I'le fix me here, till I become a furious statue—but I'le reach his heart.

Sir Sig.

Oh lamentivolo fato—What bloody Villains these Popish Itallians are.

Enter Julio.

Oct.

Hah—I hear one coming this way——hah—the door opens too,—and he makes towards it—pray Hea∣ven he be the right: for this I'me sure's the House?—Now luck an't be thy will,—

[Follows Julio towards the door softly.

Jul.

The Rogues are fled but how secure I know not,— And I'le pursue my first design of Love, And if this Silvianetta will be kind.—

[Enter Laura from the house in a Night gown.

Lau.

Whi'st—who is't Names Silvianetta?

Jul.

A Lover and her slave.—

[She takes him by the hand.

Lau.

Oh is it you,—are you escapt unhurt?

Come to my bosome—and be safe for ever.—

Jul.

'Tis Love that calls, and now Revenge must stay,—this hour is thine fond Boy, the next that is my own I'le give to anger.—

Oct.

Oh ye pernicious pair,—I'le quickly change the Scene of Love into a ruff•…•…r and more unexpected entertainment.

[She leads Julio in,—Oct. follows close, they shut the door upon 'em. Sir Sig. thrusts out his head to hearken, hears no body and advances.

Sir Sig.

Sure the devil raigns to Night, wou'd I were shelter'd and let him raign fire and Brimstone, for pass the streets I dare not—this shou'd be the house—or here abouts I'me sure 'tis,——hah—what's this—a string—of a Bell I hope—I'le try to enter; and if I am mistaken 'tis but crying conlicentia!

[Rings Enter Philipa.

Phil.

Whose there?

Sir Sig.

'Tis I, 'tis I, let me in quickly.—

Phil.

Who—the English Cavalier.

Sir Sig.

The same——I am right—I see I was expected.

Phil.

I'me glad you're come,——give me your hand.—

Sir Sig.

I am fortunate at last,—and therefore will say with the Famous Poet.

—No happiness •…•…ike that achiv'd with danger, Which once o'recome—I'le ly at Rack and Manger.

[Exeunt.