Fovr nevv playes viz : The seege of Vrbin, Selindra, Love and frienship, Tragy-comedies, Pandora, a comedy / written by Sr. William Killigrew ...

PANDORA: OR THE CONVERTS. The SCENE in Syracutia.

FIRST ACT.

Enter Lonzartes and Clearchus in long Grey Cloaks over their Rich Cloaths, with Sanga and Geta, two Lacques carrying Lanthornes, the two Lords Enter a private House, the two Servants stay.

San.

COme Geta, our Lords have no more use of us, we may go sleep!

Geta.

'Tis a fair time indeed to sleep, when day begins to break? —this is a lew'd life, that our Lords do lead.

San:

Why man? the Night was made for labourers to rest; and for great Lords to Revel in, come away.

Geta.

My Lord, is not half so ill as thine.

Sanga.

What's that to thee, or me, come away; wee'l go to Beggars Hall, and be as merry as our Lords.

Geta.

No, no, I will no more ••ully my Credit, in thy company; I converse with our tall Dary-maid, who affords me Honours, thou canst not guesse at Sanga! Oh the great Felicities! that do belong to chast imbraces? as I imagine!

San:

I like Imbraces well.

Geta:

I mean by Wedlock man:

San:

A Cox comb thou art, and a Cuckold thou wilt be; adiew Fool.

Geta.

Adiew Rogue.

Exeunt severally.

A noise within, Re-enter Clearchus, and Lonzartes, in the Darke.

Clearcus.

Botts on thy slippery heeles; we are undone!

Lon.

Let us draw, and stand upon guard, I hear some call within!

Cle:

What was that strange noyse, you made?

Lonza:

At the bottom of the staires I fell, which gave the Alarum to the Doggs, and they wak'd all the Family!

[Enter Old-Woman.]

Woman.

Oh my Lord! what have you done? all the House are up, pray stand close a while, —are you alone?

Cle:

Yes, yes.

Exit Old-woman.

Lonz:

Thou art a very Villain Clearcus, thus to betray a poore Wench, that loves thee; and to force me accept a Favour I abhorre to think on.

Cle:

Be the blame mine, I have no joy in any thing, unlesse my friend participate; —If I have any skill in Woman; you will thank me for this favour, and say, you never had the like of Angelica.

Lon:

Suppose she will not consent? must I ravish her? —you say she knowes not of my coming.

Cle:

I swear she does not.

Lonz:

Would I were out again, these Romances please not me; — pray how must I proceed?

Cle:

Thus, she is in Bed, the Room is dark, I'le entertaine her with discourse, while you undresse; then I'le retire, and soon returne with Light, to let her see, my friend and I, must be as one man to her.

Lon:

I wonder all Women do not hate thee, thou doest abuse all them that trust thee.

Cle:

You are deceiv'd Lonzartes, such silly Girles, do take it for a complement, to recommend them to a Noble Friend!

Lonz:

Well, I must now be subject to thy will, and do submit to do, what I detest! —me thinks this is a kind of Rape I undertake; —thou art too wild for my Converse Clearcus.

Clearcus.

Hold your peace.

[Enter Old-Woman.]

VVoman.

Hist, hist, my Lord!

Cle:

Here, here.

VVoman:

Give me your hand, softly, softly, follow me.

Exeunt Woman, leading them off, holding hands.

Enter the Old Prince of Syracusa, with Silvander, Aristonicus, Clothero, Ormuseus, and Traine.

Prlnce.

How does Lonzartes bear his Suppression Aristonicus? now he is full-man grown.

Ariston:

Like a wise man Sir, that will not seem to see, what he can∣not remedy.

Pri:

I have better thoughts for him, then he has for himselfe; if Clearcus spoyle him not!

Ariston:

When more years have overcome some evils, incident to youth▪ I hope he will be worthy your highest favours Sir.

Prin:

Some of you should advise him to a little more sobriety, then Clearcus will allow of; —I apprehend Silvander, that the Corinthian will quarrel, for my refusing to treat his Marriage with Theodosia, whom I design another way: —she has aversion to him.

Sil:

The Princes's may be excus'd for her dislike, unto so fierce a man, the Corinthian Prince, is all Fire, and fury, which does fright, not winne affection.

Prin:

If Theodosia will be advised by me, I shall provide better for her; —you know Lonzartes right Silvander! if he were reclaim'd, I would wish him to my Daughter.

Sil:

I have some thoughts Sir, that Lonzartes does consort with wild Clearcus, and complies in all his Vanities, onely to avoid your jea∣lousie, of his higher thoughts of interest in the State! he is no foole Sir.

Prin:

I wish it prove not too much his Nature, to be so debauch'd, for he has not higher thoughts of State-interest, then I have for him; he has been wrong'd Silvander, and I will endeavour to do him right, if hee'l be worthy of it.

Exeunt omnes.

[Enter Lonzartes and Clearcus in a Garden.]

Cle:

Why this grave face to me Lonzartes?

Lonz:

Thou art so wild, that I have lost my credit by conversing with thee, which I must redeem, by keeping better company here∣after.

Cle:

Wisely resolved, and in good time declared; —I have indeed observ'd, that you of late converse with Ladies, and delight in rich lac'd Sattin, and in Silver Petticoates; as if you meant to turn Apostate; from the freedome we have had, and now seek your game in secret, my Lonzartes.

Lonz:

If I should, pray which is most Honourable? and most suita∣ble to my Quality? The dayly terrour of getting such diseases as in∣habit your dark houses, has frighted me into better purposes.

Cle:

Your Quality! I wish your Prince-ship had all the Ladies you desire, so I might have like freedome with their Maids.

Lonz:

I shall not spoyle your Market, but leave you those cheap Cattel, at your own price.

Cle:

See the difference now, between your Pride, and my Humility; you have studied, learn'd discourses too, such as must justifie your con∣version (as you call it) but have never weighed the difference of our crimes; —such thoughts Lonzartes, do move my tender Conscience, to take what I can find, for ready money; which I freely enjoy, with∣out those frights you daily feel.

Lon:

Thou dost mistake me, and exclaimest against crimes, I never understood.

Cle.

You can counterfeit I know, and may cozen all the World, but me! I will not give my freedome up, to such follies as you serve, to be Master of all your wishes.

Lon:

I shall not labour to convert you, but will take leave to dispise your mean wayes, while you envy mine.

Cle:

Envy! by Violinus Eyes, I do dispise you, and your wayes, and will wager any thing you dare, that I enjoy this night a beauty more exact, then any cloath of Gold-Dame you treat with, I envy you! no, I pitty you Lonzartes, that after such experience, at your years, you should be fool'd so; confesse now seriously, if you have ever met a bet∣ter shape, a softer, or a whiter skin, or any more sweet, or more be∣witching faire, and lovely, then my Angelina.

Lonz:

If I have not! what then?

Cle:

Why? she shall be Fine, and rich arraid, when I so please! I can call her Sultaness too! and by my fancy, raise her above those, the World allowes of.

Lon:

I do believe thee, and thy fancy, alike extravagant.

Cle:

But why so serious on the suddain? and so dull? you shall have good Chear, and good Company to night, at the old place.

Lonz:

I shall get an ill Conscience by it!

Cle:

That sauce, agrees not with the Dainties we must feed on, pray lay by your Conscience, untill morning.

Lonz:

I wish I were well rid of thee, all thy Rhetorich shall never in∣gage me, to meet such company again.

Cle:

Why pray, how can you spend your time better?

Lonz:

I do begin to hate my self, and will love thee no longer.

Cle:

Very good; — Are not you the most debauch'd man in Syracu∣sa? (except my self!) how come you by this impudence? to blush for going to a merry meeting? Is not your own Lodging, beyond a Scandal? are not all the Wenches in that Street, your Pentioners? — not love me; I will study to scorne you, and your love for ever; I dispise a man, that does forsake his Principles.

Lonz:

I begin to hate thy over-much lewdnesse, and to see my own Deformities.

Cle:

Not love me!

Lon:

Come, I do love thee, too well I love thee, shall we go home, and put off this meeting?

Cle:

Lonzartes, though I do love your Friendship, I do hate this Humour in you, that thus would lay a blemish on me.

Enter to them Lindamira and Teretia, not at first seen by them.

Ter:

See Lindamira, the two wild Princes are in our way, how shall we get by 'um?

Linz:

Put on a confidence beyond theirs, and 'twill amaze them!

Ter:

Can that be?

Lin:

I'le be your Forlorne Hope, do but second me, and I'le secure

your pass this time; —You'l see them start, shoot aside, as from a Basaliske! the honest Woman!

Ter:

Barbarous! —I have heard indeed, they shun all virtuous Women!

Lin:

They alwaies look over us, as if they saw us not; but where they have an interest, or hope to gain it, they can like subtil Serpents, humbly creep, to flatter, and betray.

[He now sees the Ladies.]

Cle:

A prize, a prize Lonzartes, each of us one; let us reconcile for this booty, and dispute at leasure; —yon close walk invites; which will you assault?

Lin:

Neither, they are both virtuous?

Cle:

Who knowes that? have they done sucking?

Lin:

Dost thou think there be none virtuous, beyond their infancy!

Cle:

Yes, much too many, but I hope better of these; give me the Woman, and keep her virtue to your selfe: —I'le charge 'um both, there may be a Criticall minute for me; —fair Ladies.

[To them.]

Lin:

Hold my Lord, you are out at first, one of us is very brown I assure you.

Cle:

You do not think your self so, or if you do, you think brown the best Madam.

Lin:

I do indeed, think my Beauty such, as may prejudice your Lordship, if you dwell on it; which gave me boldnesse, to interrupt your set Speech; lest you engage past retreating; —our businesse is to find the Princess.

Cle:

And ours, to entertain those, who have nothing else to do.

Lin:

How would you entertain us my Lord?

Cle:

As young Gallants, use to treat Fair Ladies; with love, and our best service.

Lin:

I have no imployment for so great a Servant as your Lordship, and for love, I understand it not.

Cle:

That you may do, is my ambition.

Lin:

Nay, if you be come to ambition already! I guesse your love will grow to such a Monster, in a moment, that I dread the thought on't.

Cle:

You cut me off so short, you cannot apprehend, what I would say.

Lin:

Therefore I do it, because I do not care to hear.

Cle:

What have I done Madam, to merrit this neglect from you?

Lin:

In the behalf of all our sex, I am the chosen Champion, against all men, who do believe all Women do admire 'um.

Cle:

When shall I have leave to speak? that I may informe you better.

Lin:

When I have done.

Cle:

When will that be?

Lin:

When I am gone.

Cle:

How can you be inform'd in absence?

Lin:

As much as I desire to know, I know already, —my good wishes shall attend your Lordship; —come Teretia; we may find the Princess in the other walks.

Exeunt.

Lon:

Now Sir, how do you like this Ladies mettle?

Cle:

Why, well, I like her, and her humour very well.

Lon:

You thought her a sure prize.

Cle:

I did but hope so at the first, now I am sure of her, she is my own, if ever we do meet alone; —by this severity, she has cozen'd Tere∣tia, and you, and confirm'd me.

Lon:

I must laugh, to think how thou art mistaken, in this innocent freedome virtuous women use, and would give a good summe, to see thee but converse a Moneth or two, with persons of Honour, which I believe would reclaime thee, and fix those virtues, now lost in a Chaos of wild actions.

Cle:

I marry, if you could shew me a Woman, that would not be wonne; I would fancy some delight, to passe away an hour to two, at idle times; but all that I do meet with are mine, before I wish it, so that I am alwaies forc'd to stand upon my guard amongst 'um.

Lon:

That's no wonder, amongst those women you converse with; —shall I chuse you a Mistris? and if you get her! let the reproach be mine.

Cle:

Shall she be worth my pains? if so! I will think on't, when I have time to throw away; —come will you go with me yet?

Lon:

I'le stay here a while.

Cle:

I'le go before then, and make ready for you.

Exit.

Lon:

What pitty 'tis, such parts should be so drown'd! —

Though I resolve to quit, I'me guilty still, If longer I do countenance his ill.

Enter to him, as in the Garden, the Princess Theo∣docia, Pandora, Lindamira, Teretia, and Ladies, and Silvander.

Theod:

Lonzartes, I have been laughing at Lindamiras relation of Clearcus humour; she sayes, she has abus'd him his own way, in the behalf of honest Women, whom he declares against.

Lon:

The encounter indeed was pleasant, but the successe is beyond her guesse! for she thinks, that her neglects, have dash'd his hopes, by which he is grown confident, that her seeming scornes, were onely to dazle our Eyes, while he doubts not to gain an interest.

Lin:

I wish him joy my Lord, of his quick Victory, the next encoun∣ter, will decide this difference of Opinions.

Pan:

But how dare you Lindamira, enter the lists of Wit, with young Clearcus, who has the sharpest tongue in Syracusa.

Lin:

There is no contest so easie, his whole discourse to Women, is ever of love, or something like it! and does believe that all our souls, delight in nothing else, which makes me interrupt him still as he begins, and never hear him out.

Sil:

Is that civil, to a person, of his Quality?

The:

Is he not angry, when you slight him so?

Lin:

No Madam, I am his mirth, and he is mine.

Lonz:

If Pandora would permit! I do fancy his conversion might be wrought by her, and his Eclips'd virtues, made to shine brighter then his vices do.

Sil:

'Twill be a Noble undertaking Madam.

Lin:

I wish he were within my cure.

Pan:

Wee'l joyne our forces Lindamira, for I shall easily consent unto so good a work, as may reclaim so great a person as Clearcus; a man so near allied unto the Duke! but how must this Charitable work be done?

Lonz:

If you Madam, will admit his visits? for a Moneth or two, the cure of course will follow; for he who never yet convers'd with civill Woman, will surely be concern'd, when he shall see the harm∣lesse mirth, that virtue does allow, to persons of your Quality!

Pan:

So, I be obliged no further then to civil visits, his birth does require that for him, which I deny to no man.

Lin:

Leave the rest to me.

The:

How happy are you Cousin, that may dispose of your self as you please! I must speak, and look, and move, as my Father, and the State directs me.

Pan:

Great Princes indeed, are bound to some strict Rules, most sub∣jects understand not?

Lin:

Your Highnesse complains without a cause, we hear the Duke will leave you to your own choise, only he will recommend.

The:

When Parents recommend, 'tis so like command, it frights me to think whom it may be.

Pan:

Now you are safe from the Corinthian, have no fear untill you see occasion for it.

The:

I wish my dear Cousin, you would marry too, I should then like it better: I now dread to put on that yoak, by all the World so much desired?

Pan:

Will my being in the pound, get your Highnesse out of it? why would you have me runne the hazzard, to loose that happinesse I now am sure of? by a single life; —If men did ever appear in their own likenesse! we might chuse some one, amongst many, worth the having, but in our sights, they are allwayes disguis'd in such shapes, and hu∣mours, as they believe we like best, and so cozen us, and themselves too; for if they make us unhappy; it seldome failes, but we make them so.

Lin:

No Oracle ever spoke truer; I am of your Sect Madam, (as to matters of Faith!) yet I would gladly have a Husband, though it be dangerous to put my heart into anothers keeping, (And as my learn'd Author sayes,) to give my freedome up, unto I know not whom! (nor ever can do, till I have him) —this were a sad condition Madam, if we had not the same Arts to cosen them, that think to cosen us.

The:

Would I could get a merry heart, like yours Lindamira.

Lin:

I'le present your Highnesse with a piece of mine, I have e∣nough for both.

Enter Messenger.

Mess:

Madam, the Prince calls for you.

The:

I attend him, pray Cousin go with me to my Father.

Exeunt Ladies:

Lon:

A few such excellent Women, would make this World a Paradice! —how have I walk'd in the dark, 'till now? how strongly been misled, by my affection to Clearcus? that have approv'd, and acted in all his ills, begun upon designe, and led on, till custome has all∣most chang'd my nature, but will no more now.

[Enter Clearcus to him.]

Cle:

How now Lonzartes? walking alone? take heed the Devil find thee not at leasure.

Lon:

A greater then thy self, can hardly find me.

Cle:

Very gravely replyed, if I mistake not, you are whimpering after some great Lady, and now practizing to play the fool wisely, to spend your time, adoring you know not who, nor why!

Lon:

Thou art still ith' wrong.

Cle:

Let us meet then, at the old place to night.

Lon:

That's a freedome, I shall never take more, you have conver∣ted me, beyond all the Homilies I ever read, you have made me asha∣med of my self for being so long like you.

Cle:

Oh Hypocrite! what new piece have you got? that I must not be trusted with; come tell me, and I'le cry up your Austere pur∣pose, and rail at your conversion, as if I did believe it!

Lon:

When you see me next in ill company, Lam then that Hypo∣crite you mention.

Cle:

Out upon these tender Consciences, they spoyl more mirth, then they are worth; let old folks hear Homilies, while we enjoy the time we have, and not whine away our youth, on dreams of virtue, which signifie we know not what!

Lon:

Peace Clearcus, thou are not half so ill as thou appearest, but dost glory in talking worse, then thou canst be.

Cle.

What should we talk of more, then what we most delight in?

Lon:

Of nothing lesse, because we often do delight, in what we ought not own; —Is't not enough to offend the Gods through frail∣ty, which perverse nature does invite us to; but we must provoke Heaven, beyond sence, and appetite, by our discourse, as if we studied to defie those Powers, we ought to tremble at.

Cle:

I hate Hypocrisie.

Lon:

And I abhorre to aggravate my crimes, by such unnecessary boastings, as thy wild brain delights in; when I offend, I am sorry for it, dost thou all honesty despise, all virtue slight?

Cle:

How Lonzartes, will you confine honesty, and virtue, to the fruition of one Woman only? Fie, what a scandal is this to mankind? as if there were no honesty, nor virtue but in such chast breasts as yours? what an affront to this good company, pray speak Gentlemen, is any

here of his opinion? can you Lonzartes shew me one young man, that looks as he were guilty? or any so old, who would be thought so weak? —Is this a fit design, to set up your Title to the Dukedome?

Lon:

I see this is not the hour for your Conversion.

Cle:

Nor shall ever live to see that hour, I hope.

Lon:

Nor you I fear, ever live to tast, and relish the true felicity ob∣tain'd, by such a conquest on thy self; but I will pray for thee, and thy conversion.

Cle:

I had rather your Lordship were at Ierusalem, then see that day of my conversion; what have I done Lonzartes? to deserve such ill from you, do not provoke me to a revenge.

Lon:

Revenge, for what?

Cle:

Can you aske for what? suppose the Gods should hear your prayers, and turn my heart, how miserable a man were I, how should I spend my time, for forty years to come; Is it not enough to forsake your cause, but you must seduce me too? Lonzartes, if you pray for me, I shall curse you heartily; I dare stay no longer with him.

Exit Clearcus.

Lon:

If this brave man this humour could expell, His Virtues would his Vices far excell.

I have put on this Cloak of wantonness onely to avoid being thought a serious man, left the Duke grow jealous of my pretentions to his Crown; —while the Duke is civil, and I am safe; —he shall be so too? —But if I finde designes against me; I have Friends, and force enough, to gain my right by this; —Oh but Theodocia does un∣man me quite; —when I look on her, all these high thoughts do vanish, and I become the humblest creature in the Court:

I have no Title, that I ere shall owne, Unlesse she daine to raise me to the Throne.

THE SECOND ACT.

Enter Lonzartes alone, Clearcus hoarkning at the Doore.

Lon:

OH Cloris, Cloris! what strange unwonted pains I feel? what fears? what new disease congeales my blood? —if it be love, 'twill not offend the Gods, because my soule does now rejoyce to find, Beauty and Virtue so divine, that both may be well worshipp'd at one Shrine.

[Clearcus chaps him hard on the Shoulder.]

Cle:

Are you talking in your sleep Lonzartes? or is it some divine meditation, thus transports you?

Lon:

You are too rude Clearcus.

Cle:

I cry you mercy Sir, you can be angry then I see; I thought your conversion, had set you above such passions, as we wicked men are subject to.

Lon:

I do confesse thou didst make me start, and speak hastily, but I am not angry, nor can be with thee:

[Imbraces him.]

Cle:

I'le try your temper presently, —Oh! Beauty, and Virtue so Divine! both may be worshipped in one shrine; Ha, ha, ha.

Lon:

What of this, you heard me repeat an old Song.

Cle:

An old Song, to a new Tune Lonzartes: dost thou pray for my Conversion this way? must I get a Cloris to sigh after? —as thou dost; —I have heard all, and have observ'd thee too, I and do guesse who Cloris is, —come, tell me quickly, that way to oblige me to si∣lence; for if by my own skill, I do discover her, I'le lay thee open to the World, tell me who Cloris is, left I tell thee; Adiew.

Exit.

Lonzar.

How can he discover that I love? when I know it not yet my self! —Yet I may admire her, and by my adoration of her Virtues—

—Be by them, from all meaner passions freed, When this new virtue, shall my vice exceed.

Exit.

Enter Geta.

Geta.

What the Devil ailes my Lord? his wonted mirth is changed into hey hoes, and twenty times a day, he sends me on sleeveless Errands, that he may be alone; I think Lord Clearcus will prove the wisest man at last; —I have been five times this morning to enquire, if the Prin∣cess be in health! if she be stirring, or if near ready! if she go to the Temple! —And after Dinner I must enquire, if she have dyned! if she comes forth in publick! if she ride abroad; and thus twenty times a day, he tires me, with these silly Errands, when I might ask them all at once, and save much labour; I'le try if I can find some way to contract these Embassies; —'tis well for my Lord, that his man is wiser then himselfe.

Exit.

[Enter Silvander with Lindamira and her Maid.]

Silvand:

Do not my looks Lindamira enough expresse, what I would say?

Linda:

Yes, to me, who do discern your passion thus suppressed, more cleare, then by those loud noyses, which some Lovers most delight in.

Sil:

But how shall I be assured, this is not Rallery?

Lin:

Cannot you judge by my looks, as well as I by yours? what kind of security do you require? I have no Citizens that will be bound for my good behaviour!

Sil:

A serious word or two, with a kind look confirm'd, will secure me against the World.

Lin:

Will this look serve? and I am yours, suffice for words? with this hand given from my heart! ingage beyond your wish.

Sil:

It does, may I be—

Lin:

Nay, no strong lines I beseech you, make me not jealous by professing more, then I expect.

Sil:

I am confirmed, past ever doubting more.

[He kisses her Hand.]

Lin:

I shall try your temper, if my merry humour hold!

Sil:

'Tis that free innocence, takes me!

Lin:

And that I can afford enough of, at an easie rate.

[Enter Clearcus to them, Silvander goes off.]

Lin:

Your Lordship was going another way, pray let not me divert you, my lodging is farre off.

Cle:

Madam, I have long sought an opportunity to kiss your hands there.

Lin:

You may do it here, and save the labour of going so farre for nothing.

Cle:

Do you call that honour nothing, which I do prize above the World? and would give all my interest on Earth, to purchase one kiss of your fair hands, by a free consent.

Lin:

The World is little beholding to your Lordship, for so low a value, that will give all your interest on Earth, for a kiss of my Hand, and this, I must in civility, look, as if I did believe.

Cle:

I'le swear it Madam.

Lin:

That's as easy done, as said, but I am hard of Faith.

Cle:

How shall I obtain more credit?

Lin:

I'le shew you a short way; bring me a conveyance of half your Land, and you shall have two kisses of my hand, three if you please; and as you like your Market, you may have more, for the other half of your Estate! and this is much cheaper, then to give all the World at once for such an honour!

Cle:

Why do you mock me? who truly love, and honour you, above all women! by those Fair Eyes I do.

Lin:

How can I believe it? when I know you talk thus, to every woman that you meet.

Cle:

May my hopes neer prosper, if you are not the onely object of my heart.

He offers to kiss her Hand.

Lin:

No touching good my Lord, my affaires calls me away, I must be gone.

Cle:

And I must wait on you home Madam.

Lin:

Ile rather stay here this Twelve-month, then give your Lord∣ship that trouble.

Cle:

Am I such a Monster, in the opinion of all women, as you make me?

Lin:

I must take care you make not me one; —Oh happy de∣liverance!

Enter to them, Theodocia, and Pandora, and Silvander.

Cle:

This is such a piece of nicety, as I neer met before; —these are no company for me.

Exit.

The:

Stay Clearcus, I would speak with you; —my Cousin Pandora tells me, you Court Lindamira, which her self does not much deny.

Cle:

I am practising I must confesse, how to talk to Ladies, and have learnt some speeches to that purpose, whereof Lindamira has had her share.

Theod:

You have mocked her then! and intend her only for your mirth!

[He makes a legg.]

Lin:

Methinks his silence, and that legg, shewes more love to me, then I know what to do with.

[aside.]

Sil:

Excellent Girle! how she playes with his wanton humour!

[Enter to them Lonzartes.]

Cle:

Nay, if Lonzartes fall on me too? I shall be over-whelmed with wisdome.

Lon:

Now there is some hope of him, his look is Civillized already.

Pan:

Are you not pleased Clearcus? to see the whole Court con∣cerned for you? to see your self so valued, methinks it should stirre up the Noble Blood of your great Ancestors, to set you on to such actions, as may out-shine their stories, and not loose one day more, in your wild wayes.

Cle:

Madam, Your Language, and your looks, agree with your great Soul; I can be proud to be so taught, when the Princess Theo∣docia, and you direct, 'twere great stupidity to shew neglect; but in my Opinion Madam, one of a family is enough to be a Saint; —'twould take from great Lonzartes credit, and render his conversion no rarity▪ if I should become virtuous too, in the same year.

The:

Pandora, and I, are much obliged to you, for your good opini∣on of us, I wish all our Sex were so too.

Cle.

My opinion, and my practise, differ very much Madam; I do honour virtue in your Sex, as much as any man; but my Tallent lies the other way, Lonzartes does enough illustrate the Platonick Name, and Eminently maintaine, that high S••raffick flame, which is above my reach.

Lon:

Tell me now Clearcus, is there not more rellish in this Conver∣sation? then with your Getinas, and your Angelinas! —that blush shewes well, there is some hopes of grace in that blush.

Cle:

Hold your pratling, my conversion does not belong to you.

Lon:

I hope I may direct you to a Lady, that will work that wonder.

Cle:

Hold your peace then, till we be alone.

The:

Wee'l be gone Pandora, and not hinder so good a work; —you shall neither of you go with us, ••but if you please Clearcus, Lindamira may walk with you a little longer.

Cle:

No Madam, I have enough of her already, she out-wits me; we shall neer agree.

Lin:

I have got credit enough for a young Souldier, by my honou∣rable retreat, from so hot a charge.

Exeunt Silvander and Ladies.

Lon:

Let us now persue our Argument, for thy Conversion.

Cle:

It comes on a pace; —what a fine Gentleman are you grown, since the Spirit of Chastity has possest you? and you hope th••t I will live chast, that I may have the honour, and felicity to be in love! —to be a fool! to intangle my self in netts that I shall neer get out of! I'le none of it.

Lon:

Let my old Friendship so farre prevaile, that on my request you will sometimes converse with ••andora, if thy visits do ingage her to undertake thy cure! and she do work that Miracle! she must value what her self has made worthy of her self; for so wilt thou be, if thy wandring fancy, were once fixt?

Cle:

So then all this bussle, is to make me in love; though you know, I have been a thousand times in love already.

Lon:

I Clearcus, I know thy thousands, but I would have thee once in love.

Cle:

I never will be mad, as you are; yet to give you, and the World satisfaction in this point; I will condemne my selfe to one Moneths pen∣nance, and make experiment to look, and talk as idlely with Pandora, as you do with your Divinest Cloris! —If I were sure Pandora were not to be won; I could fancy a pretty kind of pastime, by raising my de∣sires to hopes of what I cannot have! but I could never meet a Wo∣man yet, that was impregnable; and my nature is not capable of being converted, by any that I can conquer; —Pray Sup at my Cham∣ber this night.

Lon:

I will not fayle, if you will go with me unto Pandora? —

And visit her, while this good motion's warm, 'Gainst all your fears, I'le fit you with a charm.

Cle:

I go.

Exeunt.

Enter Pandora with Lindamira and Ladies in her Chamber, and Silvander.

Pand:

Lindamira, you must be my second, they will be two to one else.

Lin:

Gladly Madam, I cannot wish a gentler Enemy, then him that thinks he has me at his mercy.

Pan:

But if you be over-sharp upon him, you may hinder the great work, we undertake! and make him hate all honest Women for our sakes.

Lin:

I shall use him with more Art, and lead him on with hopes, that all our Sex do scramble for him; —if I can fit his Fancy, and his Wit, I'le ingage him in a concerne for you, and then mannage my young Gallant to my will, till I confute his common places, so often urged to the prejudice of Ladies, I cannot fancy better sport, then to see 〈◊〉〈◊〉 mad in love with you Madam.

Pan:

The Gods forbid, I would not cure him at that rate, for my own sake, and his; left that prove a greater evil, then he now has; I shall be very careful, to give him no incouragement, for thoughts of that nature, my undertaking is not beyond a common civility, as to all o∣thers of his Rank.

Lin:

That will do it, if I mistake not; —and catch you both I hope, —here he comes?

Enter Lonzartes, and Clearcus.

Lon:

Madam, I have brought my Friend, to kiss your hand.

Cle:

Thus farre Madam, in order to my ingagement, I have given you the trouble of the first visit, I ever made against my will.

Pan:

Your Lordship, does me honour; came you now from Court?

Cle:

Yes Madam, and left the Princess Theodocia in great comple∣ments with her kind Father, who has now declared against the proud Corinthian, and given Theodocia, her free choice where she please.

Pan:

You tell me Newes, beyond my hopes, this will raise the Prin∣cess drooping Spirits again; I wonder she is not here by this time.

Lon:

The Duke and she, are not yet parted Madam; —how now Lindamira, are you tonguetyed? no welcome for my Friend, to en∣courage him to like of civil company; —You look as if you feared to loose your Gallant.

Cle:

No, no, she knowes she has too fast hold of my heart, to part so easily.

Lin:

'Tis honour enough for me, to be in the number of your Martyrs Sir.

[She Sighes.]

Pan:

How long have you two been acquainted?

Lin:

Ever since last night Madam.

[She Sighes]

Pan:

And dost thou sigh already?

Lin:

'Tis only to give you warning by my harmes.

Pan:

I thank your care, but I am arm'd against the World••

Cle:

That's good Newes Lonzartes, there is some hope, she has made firme resolves against Wedlock; that I may assault her with security.—

[Aside.]

Lon:

You may, you may.

Cle:

Madam, You speak, as if you held mankind at a defiance.

Pan:

By way of Marriage I do, but I can value all men that I see worthy.

Cle:

He must be a bold man, who does designe beyond the favours you allow, but have you made vowes against marriage Madam?

Pan:

No vowes, but such resolves, as are unchangeable.

Lon:

You are severe to men.

Lin:

If all Women were of your opinion Madam? how should the World be Peopled.

Cle:

I marry Madam, that was well urg'd.

Pan.

I thought Lindamira you would have been on my side.

Lin:

So I am, when you are in the right, this is our common cause; Suppose you bring these two Lords, and they bring twenty more, to be of your judgment, and this Heresie should spread; what will become of us, who think of nothing else but Marriage?

Lon:

She tells you true Madam, when her own concern is at stake, you may excuse her.

Pan:

I do, and will make good my argument alone.

Cle:

Never to marry Madam?

Pan:

Never my Lord, is my full resolve.

Cle:

You are the happiest, and the wisest Lady living! and I the joy∣fullest man, if you'l permit me to adore you at this distance, for I am of your own opinion Madam.

Lin:

Two Fannaticks well met.

Pan:

So long as your respects be free from love, my house is open to you.

Cle:

You are all witnesses, that this Lady does adopt me her avow'd Gallant, on the conditions before mentioned: —you give me leave Madam to talk of love, and to carry up this jest, as high, as he who really does love.

Pan:

I do, so it be ever in publick; all private visits, and all whispe∣rings are excepted.

Cle:

'Tis enough Madam; —This is a pretty kind of Entertainment, I never thought of: Lonzartes, thou art in the right, this will he sport beyond my hope.

Lon.

But how does Lindamira like, to see her new Gallant, thus ta∣ken from her?

Cle:

'Tis her own fault, she might, have ••ix'd me another way, if she had been wise!

Pan:

Indeed Lindamira, I thought not of your concern, and did con∣clude too rashy, but I will use my interest on your behalf.

Lin:

—'Twill not be needfull Madam, I know all his professions to you, are meant to me.

Cle:

Very prettily contrived, —This is a new kind of wit, I never heard of; so then you are to love me, in spite of your Teeth, and I you, and I you, in spite of mine; what will this come to at last?

Lon:

Mirth man, all the year a constant mirth: —Is not this better then spending your time in a smoaky house, with your old Acquain∣tance?

Cle:

I cannot tell you that, till I have tryed this, as long as I have the other.

Lin:

Pray my Lord, do not peswade your Friend, all this earnest is a jest, I allow you as much mirth as you please, so the conclusion be serious.

Pan:

We must leave the successe unto the Fates; —Clearcus may in time have pitty on you Lindamira, he does not yet believe, you are in earnest.

Cle:

Nor ever shall do Madam, till I see her heart break, and then 'twill be too late.

Lin▪

He dissembles well, for so young a Schollar Madam.

Lon:

We have don•• all well methinks, and now tis time that we retire.

Cle:

How soon may I make my next visit to you Madam?

Pan:

As often as you please my Lord, at publique houres.

Exeunt Silvander, and the two Lords.

Lin:

How did I perform my part Madam?

Pan:

You fell too soon into your humour, he sees you mock him.

Lin:

That's all I ayme at, he has too much wit to be abused; my onely business is to let him see, that he cannot cozen me; —I believe you will see this Sceen changed, at his next visit, if I have any skill, you will be troubled with him.

Pan:

I am arm'd at all points, against all men, and him most.

[Enter Theodocia, and Ladies.]

The:

Oh Cousin! I am freed from all my fears, and come to re∣joyce with you.

Pan.

I have rejoyced already Madam, and have begun a Sceen of mirth, will hold us long; —Had your Highnesse come a little sooner, you had found the late Convert Lonzartes, and his Friend Clearcus here, who is become my avowed Gallant, and looks as if he liked our company already.

The:

Then you have hopes to cure him; —Pray order it so, as I may come to your next meeting, my heart is now so light, that I could play with any thing; —Can I have no part in your Comedy?

Lin:

For two reasons, your Highness can onely be a looker on, 'tis petty Treason to make love to you, though in jest; and then your beauty is too dangerous to be dallied with; these be edge-tools, too sharp for us to play with.

The:

Why may not Princes participate in such innocent mirth•• we make stricter Rules then need; true virtue will shine through such thin clouds, without a prejudice, and be above the reach of vile Tongues.

Pan:

I Madam, if you could shew a rule, to distinguish between In∣nocence, and Guilt; —But we often see that Angelical virtues are as∣persed, by malicious tongues, and no quality exempt, from rude cen∣sures.

Lin:

I differ in opinion, Princes may enjoy harmlesse mirth, as freely as we; to be too much reserved, does look like disguise.

The:

I would be so merry Lindamira, as should defie all scandall, and with an open face, justifie it to the World; to wear alwayes a stiff-state look is intollerable.

Pan:

Private persons may be bold that way, when few Eyes ob∣serve, —But Princes are set on Pirameds, for all to see, and imitate.

The:

You shall not fright me from your mirth, with this grave Lecture, are they not both, my near Relations, whom you endeavour to

reclaime? why may not I share it so worthy a designe,—I fear Linda∣mira she doubts lest I may gain her Gallant from her.

Lin:

She may well be jealous, if your Highnesse undertake him, I shall have small hopes, if you two quarrel for him.

The:

Why Lindamira? is Silvander vanished?

Lin:

No Madam, the more Trophies I can fairly get by Victories on others, will raise his Conquest higher, who gaines me from the rest.

The:

Thou art safe, and mayest say any thing, Silvander is thy secu∣rity, against all scandall, though you carry it thus unconcern'd, the se∣cret spreads.

Lin:

'Tis time it should do so, now we do own Our love, 'tis fit the secret should be known. Your Highness may assist, while you look on, Though onely wee, the active part do own.

The:

Let us retire to council then.

Exeunt.

[Enter Teretia, and Geta.]

Ter:

What is thy businesse honest Geta? How does Lonzartes thy brave Lord?

Geta.

My Lord is in good health of body Madam, his brains are onely out of order.

Ter:

How meanest thou Geta, has he got a blow on his head?

Geta:

Onely some fumes from his heart Madam, makes his head addle, 'tis call'd the Spleen of late, and much in fashion; his Lordship does desire to know the Princess mind this morning, what she means to do all day?

Ter:

This will be a hard question, to the Princess fasting, why would he know all this now?

Geta.

Because he has some great affairs for me to mannage, and can∣not spare me to ask, so o••ten as I use to do.

Ter:

Of what nature, be thy particular queries Geta?

Geta.

He would know how she slept last night? in what health now? by what hour she will be drest? when to her devotions? and then, where she walks this morning? and if she dine in publique? then, how she intends to passe her time till night? else I must come twenty times, for what you may at once dispatch me.

Ter:

And does Lonzartes send thee, to enquire all this at once?

Geta.

These Women are so silly, they cannot reach a deep design;

[aside.]

—No, but he does every day make me trouble my self, and every body that I meet, to ask these questions severally, which I would do at once, to shew him I am a man of quick dispatch.

Ter:

Oh! is that the matter? I can fit thee with one answer to all these; — Tell thy Lord, the Princess did take cold last night, and will keep her bed all day.

Geta.

I like it well, and wish her Highnesse would do so this moneth.

Ter.

Out Traytor, I'le make thy Lord braine thee for that wish.

Geta:

Why Madam? I meant no harm, 'twas but to save you the trouble, and me the same questions to morrow, and so on till Dooms∣day, I think!

Ter:

Well Sirra, for this time, I'le not complain of you, this Jest shall excuse your knavery.

Geta.

This will be a play-day for me, I like this lying a Bed well.

Exeunt.

THE THIRD ACT.

[Enter Lonzartes and Clearcus.]

Clear.

TEll me then, who Cloris is!

Lon:

Thou art so mad, I dare not trust thee.

Clear:

I will know now, or break all friendship!

Lon:

I have not interest enough, to make a visit yet, and thou wouldst have me own, that I do love, before I do!

Clear:

Tell me but who she is! what your hopes are! and what you wish! that I may joyne, in your designe.

Lon:

I have yet not designe, nor any hope, for what I wish!

Clear:

But do you think any Woman may not be, what you can wish? if you approach her the right way!

Lon:

Thou art so much Divell grown, thou canst not discerne the Angelicall nature that is in those, who are virtuous of that Sex; thou hast no tincture of goodnesse left, but art become a Monster of man-kind!

Clear:

All this, will not fix your Herecy on me! I shall never learne to flatter a few grave Matrons, to be laugh'd at, by all that are worth wishing for! —come, shall I know Cloris yet? this is the last time of asking.

Lon:

Ere long, you shall; if I do prosper in my pretence!

Clear:

Oh! is it come to a pretence! then look to your self, lest I discover Cloris to the World! and make you wish, that you had trusted me.

Enter to them, Theodocia, Pandora, Lindamira, Teretia, and Ladies, and Silvander.

The:

Where did you leave my Father Lonzartes?

Lon:

I have not seen the Prince to day Madam.

The:

I was told, that you were just now walking with him.

Cle:

That may well be Madam, for his brains do crow of late; —do ye see how he stands; Lonzartes, the Princess speaks to ye.

Lon:

To me, does your Highness command me any thing?

Silvander and Lindamira entertain themselves in whisper.

Cle:

Did not I tell you Madam, that his brains are turn'd, he neither hears, nor sees of late; The Idea of his Seraffick love, takes him whol∣ly up, from all converse with us mortals.

Lon:

Hold your prating, or I shall be angry.

Pan:

What has made you so grave of late Lonzartes? all your wo••••ted mirth is gone.

Lon:

No man is alwayes in good humour Madam.

Cle:

He's in Love Madam, on my knowledge, o're head and eares in Love.

Pan:

In Love, Lonzartes, I thought you had not been at leasure, to be in Love; —'Tis your fault Clearcus, that have not councell'd your friend better.

Cle:

Thus am I chid for your follies, who reject all my Councels, and refuse all my approv'd Antidotes, which do preserve me against that Serpent (you call Love) while he convers'd with me, he was safe Madam.

Lonz:

Thou hast fool'd enough Clearcus, the Princess, and all the company are weary of it: —If your Highnesse allow him this fredome, he will grow troublesome.

The:

Is it Love Lonzartes? or is Clearcus onely merry with you?

Lon:

Your Highnesse knowes him too well, to credit all he sayes this way, he is at this time, very angry, that I have chid him for his lewd life, and hath with-drawn my self from his ill company, which he im••putes to my being in Love.

Cle:

I say he is in Love, most seriously in Love; shall I unmask this grave Reformado, and shew you the Lady now?

The:

If Lonzartes be content, I would gladly see her, whom he thinks worthy of his heart.

Cle:

No matter for his consent Madam, so you like it: —And thus I

[He holds them all to Lonzartes, one by one.]

begin my tryal; —By your good leave Lady—Tis not here; —nor is it this; —nor is it you Lady?

Lin:

I lament the losse of such an honour.

Lon:

Thou art become a pretty fool Clearcus, dost thou not observe how all the Court do laugh at thee?

Cle:

Yes, and shall make them laugh at you, e're I have done; if Pan∣dora will make the next tryal.

Pan:

I am content to try, what this will come to.

Cle:

Now Sir, have at you; —Tis not your good fortune neither Madam.

The:

How can you make Lonzartes an amends, for all this abuse?

Cle:

I will give him present satisfaction, if your Highnesse will per∣mit me to bring him to you?

The:

To me! think you Lonzartes is in love with me?

Cle:

Tis a Cloris in the Clouds, one much above his reach, which you onely are Madam.

The:

With all my heart, I shall be proud to own his conversion, as a Trophie of my Honour.

Cle:

See if his guilt do not make him avoid the tryal; —stop him

[Lonzartes is going out.]

there; Lonzartes, the Princess calls you.

Lon:

Ile cut thy Throat.

[He holds Lonzartes to the Princess.]

Cle:

He threatens me, —guilty I'le warant; —now Madam, do you see no alteration in his face? —no change yet? speak all, —you a••e all assistants in this judgment.

[Lonzartes throwes him off in anger.]

Lon:

It will disturb a Saint, to be thus subject to the fancies of a foole.

The:

Be not disturb'd Lonzartes, you take this in earnest, which we look on as a jest, only to passe the time; Clearcus has more wit, then to be in earnest.

Lon:

I hope your Highnesse will not preferre his follies, before my professions, who disclaim such a presumption.

The:

If you turn this jest to earnest Lonzartes, I shall believe Clear∣cus; —I take it now as Ralliery; —I wonder Lindamira you get not hold of some young Lovers heart?

Lin:

I have twenty in store Madam, more then I know what to do with.

Pan:

Then you allow as many Lovers, as you can get, and mean to chuse the best.

Lin:

I think tis credit for Women to be admir'd and honour'd by worthy men; it shewes a value, to move so many, to a generall esteem, and must be the Womans fault if she deserve a censure.

The:

You are in the right Lindamira, men may designe, but Women may destroy, faster then they can build; my thanks, unto Clearcus for our mirth.

Cle:

Mirth ought to be our business Madam.—

—The angry Gods affords cross Fates, to give Us griefes enough, and troubles while we live.

Exeunt Lonzartes and Clearcus severally.

Enter the Prince and Lords, who meet the Ladies going off.

Prince.

We were now discoursing of your Gallant Pandora, have you hopes to work this miracle.

Pan:

This Lady and I, have ventred our credits on his conver∣sion Sir.

Prince.

To reclaim him, were a good work; bnt suppose he fall in Love with either of you.

Pan:

At his peril that, let Lindamira look to her self, I am safe.

Lin:

I have a sure retreat Sir, 'tis but seeming to comply, and hee'l give ore; for he can love none that he can conquer, and I am resolv'd rather to be vanquish'd, then not to be rid of him, when I see my time.

Sil:

Could all her Beauty with my love expire, Her flowing Wit, would still create new Fire.

Aside.

[Enter to them Clearcus and Lonzartes.]

Prince.

You two I know, come now from exercising of your Troops.

Cle:

No Sir, we went hence just now; I wish my Troop here to guard me.

Prince.

Have you an Enemy in view Clearcus?

Cle:

I have many Sir, that have rob'd me of my peace, I cannot sleep of late, but have a thousand fancies, which do set my brains on fire.

Prince.

Take heed it prove not love.

Cle:

That is the danger Sir, for if Pandora do keep her resolve for single life; I may be in love; for I do feel strange alterations, that I know not what to make of!

Lin:

Have you no affection left for me my Lord? can you so soon forget your last nights professions?

Cle:

Now Sir, you see how I am assaulted, I shall be pull'd in pieces presently.

Prince.

Silvander and I, will secure you from Lindamira.

Cle:

If I were assured you could Sir, I should like her wit, and hu∣mour well, —but I fear, —if I should be in earnest, she would be so too.

Lin:

You see his inclination is for me Madam, so that what ever he shall say to you hereafter, is meant to me.

Cle:

Nor so, nor so, sweet Lady, I do respect Pandora, above all her Sex; you throw out hooks, to catch young Gallans, she neglects those are laid for her, that's my danger.

Prince.

What riddle is this Clearcus? dost thou desire that thy de∣sires may not be answered?

Cle:

Yes Sir, from some persons, for if my love be return'd, all ends in the fruition, (as most Examples shew,) But if Pandora keep her re∣solve for single life, then I can raise my fancy while I live, to Adoration of her Beauty, and that Virtue, with a continual delight, which will last while I last, so she do never yeild!

The:

You are then my Lord, the happiest lover living, for you will find my Cousin, just as you wish.

Pan:

Pray Madam, answer not too fast for me, for if I find Clearcus a person of such Noble Nature, beyond what I did ever hope to mee•• in man; I may change my Opinion of men, for his sake; and therefore 'tis best to find some other sport, lest we destroy each other.

[He starts.]

Cle:

Look you now? I am Treypand!

••he:

Start not Clearcus, she but mocks you, you are both ingaged for ••his Moneth, to entertain us, and your selves, no going off now.

Pan:

I shall not break Covenants.

Cle:

Nor I Madam, though I do sometimes reminde you, of your resolve against Marriage, whereon depends my bliss, secure me but of that, and I am ever yours.

Pan:

I shall endeavour what I can, to give you that satisfaction.

Cle:

I kiss your fair hand on that word, which has given new life to my doubtfull heart, and now I do defie Lonzartes gravity, to put his heart in a more loving dress, then mine shall be hereafter.

Prince.

If Lonzartes can love too, my wonder ceases!

The:

He is my servant Sir, and has a chief part in the Comedy.

Prince.

I like your pastime well, but me thinks Lonzartes looks as if

he were compell'd unto his part, and will do it scurvily.

Lin:

That's the sport Sir, and will afford the more variety.

Lon:

I shall be glad Sir, if I might be excus'd.

The:

By no means Servant, what an affront is this, that I must beg your favour, in the face of the whole Court to own me?

Prince.

You must not be so grave Lonzartes, all is for our mirth.

Cle:

Now Sir, have not I done your work for you?

Lon:

Would thou wert hang'd, hold thy peace.

Cle:

Give me better words, or I'le talk aloud.

Lon:

Was ever man thus hamper'd between jest and earnest?

Lin:

They are comparing Notes in private; there's Trechery in their Faces; I'le play no more.

Prince.

When begins the love Clearcus? this is only talking of it.

Cle:

It is begun already Sir; if I had not valued this excellent Lady above the World; I had not taine this care to secure my interest to a perpetuity.

Lin:

Madam, you are not to believe a word of this, for he has with the same grave Face, sworn the same to me but yesterday.

Cle:

That was in jest Madam, but now every action of my life, shall justifie each syllable I utter unto you.

Pan:

I shall endeavour to believe it my Lord••, and yet allow you the same Christian liberty with Lindamira, and the rest, as you had before.

Cle:

Madam, you speak, as though you did not value my respects, now my whole soul is set to serve, and honour you alone.

Pan:

I must confess, I cannot change my faith, so fast as you do your discourse; —And then, as I remember, my lesson is to keep my di∣stance, lest I loose my lover.

Cle:

True Madam, as to comply, but you are to see, and credit my ambitious love, and to admit it with the same esteem, I serve you.

Pan:

How can I do that, and not return you love for love? and then you will dispise me; pray my Lord, at your next visit, bring my part in Writing, that I may not erre in it.

Prince.

She is in the right Clearcus, you now seem to seek such con∣tradictions, as all the Court will laugh at; consult with Lonzartes, a∣gainst your next visit.

Exit Prince and Train.

Lon:

If he will follow my advise, he may do well Sir; —now we are alone, tell me what crotchets next? prethee make me understand what thou wouldest have Pandora do?

Cle:

I think you were best release me the residue of my Month, that I may go seek my wits, where I last left them; —must I see none of my old friends, untill this Month be over?

Lon:

If you consider your promise, not see one of them.

Cle:

Then shall I be lost, if those preservatives be all forbid me; I do find already love will be Predominant.

Lonz:

The better for you if it be; —let us now talke seriously; —suppose Pandora may be won, can you fancy a happiness on Earth, beyond having her?

Cle:

Yes, I do fancy that having twenty, is better then any one in Christendome!

Lon:

Thou dost not love then, else, that one belov'd, has more vari∣ety then a thousand.

Cle:

Make but that good, I'le marry her to morrow.

Lon:

You think then she is already at your dispose.

Cle:

When she once sees that I am in earnest, she will be, who will have her; and the truth is Lonzartes, I do like her best of all I ever talk'd with, and have great fear that I shall be like other men, who never value what they have, which makes me covet what I cannot get.

Lon:

Suppose some other do obtaine her, while you are thus long resolving?

Cle:

Nay, I am resolv'd no other shall ever have her.

Lon:

And you resolve for her too.

Cle:

Yes, she cannot in honour ingage to any, while I pretend.

Lon:

Art thou turn'd fool, to think thus? be more serious, or thou wilt be dispis'd.

Cle:

Why do you not allow me some reliefe then? to live a whole Moneth honest, will put my blood into a flame; I have tempted all I meet, and all within these Walls prove honest.

Lon:

By your own experience then, you will find that Courts are Nurseries of virtue, and are onely scandaliz'd by such vild persons, as would have the clearest innocence aspers'd, that their own guilts might be no wonder; —you find few virtuous persons, amongst Censurers.

Cle:

That's true, but take heed Lonzartes, you do not lead me into snares that will destroy me, for I allready find some inclination; towards Pandora, which I am asham'd to own, lest I be laugh'd at.

Lon.

You have reason, for there can none of us believe thee.

Cle:

You have made me a fine Gentleman in a few dayes:—if Pandora be of your mind, adiew to your Philosophicall Love.

Lon:

I hope thou art too fast to free thy self. —

Thou playest with flames, which undiscover'd burn, Untill they do thy heart to Ashes turn.

Exit Lon▪

Cle:

Did ever man betray himself as I have done? by putting Fet∣ters on in jest, which already are become so fixt, I cannot shake 'um off, but must humbly beg, to be allow'd to worsh••p that Divine Nature, I so much dispis'd in virtuous Women, and must now confess: —

If I do neither Faith, nor Favour find, The God of Love is just, though he be blind.

Exit.

Note, that all the Play through, when Silvander and Lindamira speaks not, th••y are to whisper 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in priva••e discourse.

[Enter Theodocia and Lindamira.]

Lin:

If your Highness do consider Lonzartes's Worth, and his great

Birth, as it deserves; whose Ancestor was not many Ages since, by yours, but by this Dukedome, on a nice point, (as I have heard;) so that to me Lonzartes's love, looks like a Divine direction, to his Re∣stauration.

The:

I am of Pandora's mind for single life, and have as small a value for that idle passion you call love, as she.

Lin:

Your Highnesse may as well judge what they do in China, as guesse at our Felicities that Love? —I can kiss the ground that my Silvander treads on, with more relish, then all other joyes can bring me.

The:

You have high fancies that lead you on to hopes, which you may never find.

Lin:

Those hopes are more delightfull! then an Age of dull life without them; if your Highness did converse as much with me, as with Pandora, I should convert you.

The:

Why do you not then change her severity, against men?

Lin:

I had not the honour to be known to her, before her heart was set another way; but yet I••le try what I can do.

The:

I wish Silvander may answer your expectation Lindamira; but if such honour, and such bliss accompany your loves, why thus long car∣ried on ith' dark? and why not yet avow'd.

Lin.

'Tis now avow'd unto the Duke, though I took time to know my Gallant, before I did admit his Love, and on long tryal found his silent looks, did speak more truth, then such loud noyses, as most passions make; we whisper our hearts to one another, with a sincerity beyond the reach of lowd professions.

The:

You praise Silvander as if you meant to sell him.

Lin:

He is no Prince Madam, and is therefore safe from you.

The:

The lesse safe, if I so pleas'd; —do you believe his virtue, and his love so great, that I could not win him from you, for a Friend of mine?

Lin:

I do, and shall not think him a losse, who can be won from me, by the greatest Princess in the World?

The:

If I could once see such a man, I might change my opinion.

Lin:

Why don't you try Lonzartes?

The:

He is too much concern'd to be play'd with; —you dare not venture your fine man then?

Lin:

I dare, and do desire it withall my heart, and do voluntarily in∣gage, not to work against your Highnesse.

The:

And I am resolv'd to try his faith to you, it may cure Lonzar∣tes to see himself neglected, when anothers chosen, though but in jest, for I can pitty, though I do not love him.

Lin:

And 'tis my desire to have Silvanders faithfull love, made Emi∣nent by this temptation.

[Enter Lonzartes, and Silvander to them.]

The:

In what humour left you Clearcus my Lords?

Lon:

In such as does become his greatnesse Madam.

The:

Most brave men are often puffed up with vain glory, that does Eclipse those virtues, which themselves do over-value.

Lin:

Your Highnesse is severe to men, but all are not so vain.

The:

Most are, when we do value them too much, —yet I con∣fess I am well pleased, when I find men worthy my esteem.

Lin:

How does that appear? when your Highnesse does dispise mankind by your resolves against them.

The:

To shew how much you are mistaken; help me to unpin this Jewel; —wear this Silvander for my sake; I'le own it to the World, that I do value men of Worth.

Sil:

Madam, I understand not what this kind of favour means; I hope your Highness does not chuse me for mirth.

The:

Do you Silvander raise mirth from my Favour? —come with

to Lin: aside.

me Lindamira; —I do command you to stand near us, within hearing; —I will not runne the hazzard of any Censure, by this tryal to satisfie my curiosity, concerning Lovers, such high Romantick Lovers! who soar above the reach of all temptations.

Lin.

I shall obey you Madam, though I desire it not.

Exeunt Ladies.

[The Men stand amazed.]

Sil.

Can you guess Lonzartes, what this tends to?

Lon.

Tis a Riddle farre beyond my understanding.

Exit Lonz:

[Lindamira Re-enters to Silvander.]

Lin.

Wake, wake Silvander, the Sun shines bright upon thee; Theodocia dotes on thy Virtues, and will advance thy youth, much faster then thy own wishes can propose.

Sil:

How Lindamira! have you so mean thoughts of me?

Lin:

So high thoughts, why may not the Princess neglect the Co∣rinthian, for you? such things have been in story.

Sil:

You speak, as if you wish'd it.

Lin:

Can I wish you well, and not applaud it?

Sil:

You cannot fancy me a greater curse, unlesse your own heart be turn'd against me.

Lin:

The Princess desires your company in the next Room; I can stay no longer.

Exit Lindamira.

Sil:

I have so much to think on, that I know not what to say; —the Princess unexpected favours, with Lindamira's no concern, begets such wonder, as does amaze me! —I will not go; —and yet I must, or make my self Ridiculous, by judging what I cannot guesse at.

Exit.

[Enter Lonzartes.]

Lon:

Have I thus long ador'd the Princess? and still approach'd her with the same trembling, I draw near the Alter, for this scorn at last! —before my Face, to Court a man, she knowes ingaged unto another, a man of so much lower quality then I; this I confesse does make my Faith stagger; —Silvander was as much surpriz'd as I, — Lindamira too, was out of tune; —If Theodocia can go less, this change will be more my admiration, then her virtue was.

[Enter Lindamira, passing in by him.]

Lon:

Now Madam, whither so fast?

Lin:

To see which way the winde blows; —pray my Lord, where is your heart now?

Lon:

In the Princess lodgings, with yours; —or can you tell me bet∣ter where your own is?

Lin:

I change my mind so often, that I know not where I left it last.

Lon:

Are you no more concerned? Suppose Silvander change his opinion? Princess have mighty power to overcome mens hearts.

Lin:

Why then his opinion will be chang'd? —I cannot value him, that leaves to value me; —methinks my Lord, the Princess favour to Silvander, should abate your passion for her.

Lonzar:

My desires go no higher, then to look, and wonder at her perfections! my Esteem cannot be call'd love, beyond what Duty, and Obedience does allow; —but how does Silvander receive this great Honour?

Lin:

They are now in private; you may judge by his exalted looks when you see him next; — I am glad your Lordship is no more con∣cern'd.

Lon:

This is a forc'd discourse Lindamira, pray do not mock me, who have a true value of your worth.

Lin:

The truth is, the Princess often angred at my confidence in Silvanders love; onely now tryes if she can shake his faith, by higher propositions; —and my hope is, that his Virtue may beget in her, some better thoughts for men, which will do your businesse, and confirm mine, for Silvander is above temptation; and I think Lonzartes does deserve what he desires.

Lon:

You oblige me to say, your confidence does merrit the grea∣test faith from man; but is Silvander of your Plot?

Lindam:

No, 'twould then be none, nor I no tryal have of his sin∣cerity.

Lon:

These are dangerous sports, and we too late may find them so; the Princess and you are both too bold, and do too much rely on your own beauties.

Lin:

If Silvander can be won, I can smile at such a losse.

Lon:

'Tis easie to say so, when you fear it not; but I have seen stout hearts fall to pieces by such a blow; —you have setled my heart again, and I advise you from these dangerous sports, lest they blow up your joyes, when you are most secure: we know our present minds, but cannot foresee what we shall like to morrow: —

Our Nature with such frailty is indow'd, Tis well if present moments be allow'd!

Exeunt severally.

Enter Theodocia, and Silvander, two Ladies at a distance; Lindamira is seen near ob∣serving them.

The:

Is your heart my Lord so fixt on Lindamira, that no Person, nor any Argument, can e're prevail with you to change?

Sil:

Our Souls Madam, are so united, that I hope death can only make that separation.

The:

Can no Fortune, nor any Quality invite you to Honours, and Happinesse, beyond what you can ever hope from Lindamira? Nor a greater Beauty dis-ingage your heart from her?

Sil:

None can ever move me to a thought of change Madam.

The:

What if she have chosen higher, and gives way for your prefer∣ment also.

Sil:

I can smile at all this, when your Highnesse is so merry; —Lin∣damira and I Madam, do understand a happinesse, can never be dissolv▪d; we are above temptation.

The:

Suppose my Father be her choice, will you pretend to love, and hinder her advancement, by your claim? —Suppose my dear Cou∣zin Pandora, have like affection unto you; and puts on this severity to others, in design onely to gaine you? will you let such a Beauty, of so high virtue and extraction dye for you?

Sil:

Your Highness sure does fancy what is impossible? —but if all this were so, I could dye in gratitude to serve Pandora, but do preferre Lindamira's love, and virtue, above the brightest beauty, or greatest Empire this World has.

The:

Can there be such worth in men? how have I been mis-infor∣med?

[Aside.]

—Princes who do not converse, know not the World they live in, but take all on trust from others; —You believe that I am now in jest Silvander, and do not deal so freely, as I expect.

Sil:

By all thats —I am sixt, past altering; —if your Highness knew the joyes, which do accompany united hearts, you would sooner undertake to pull down Stars from Heaven, then hope a separation, where true love Triumphs.

The:

I am fully satisfyed, that Lindamira has what she deserves, a worthy Lover; —appear now Lindamira, and call in Lonzartes, with the rest: —I am converted.

[Enter Lindamira with Lonzartes and Ladies.]

The:

Here Madam, you are coupled by the Gods, Silvander does deserve your confidence; —Now wear that Jewel, I before gave you in jest Sir, as a mark of my Favour, for your approv'd virtue.

Lindam:

Has your Highnesse any better thoughts for Marriage, then you had?

The:

I have found an honest worthy man, beyond my expectation; —Lonzartes you look sad.

Lon:

My heart is not so full of Feathers as it was, but is of late be∣come a lump of Lead.

The:

We have indeed been all too serious of late; come Lindamira, let us find some entertainment to refresh us on the Sea this Evening; Lonzartes, you, and Clearcus may go with us, if you please?

Exeunt all but Lonzartes.

Lon:

Your Highnesse does honour us; — what these various fancies tend to, is above my understanding; — As Nature has fram'd Women of a more refined matter, then us men, so she has given to some, Souls so much above ours Excellent, that their Intrincique purity, dazles our Judgments, more then their brightest Beauty does our Eyes; —Theodo∣cia is certainly without blemish; —yet may have some notions of my love, which she thinks not fit to cherish, because she likes not me: —And yet may have a virtuous concern for my Birth, and sufferings, such as her good Nature is unwilling to destroy; —'Tis Theodocia's Excellen∣cies makes me thus humbly seek my Right, as her Gift; else my Sword should make my way to ascend this Throne, which is my own; — but no more of that yet: —

—For if I can be rightly understood, My Love may save the expence of so much blood.

Exit.

THE FOURTH ACT.

Pandora with Lindamira are seen sitting on a Couch; Enter Clearcus to them, they rise.

Cle.

MAdam, 'Tis a felicity to love you though neglected; by what Name then shall I call my Joy? Now you allow my Love, to what height raise my thoughts? — Shall I dare to enter upon such a state of bliss? —To be thus snatch'd into so much Light, from the long Chaos I have liv'd in, may prove more rui∣nous to me, then that Hell I came from.

Pan:

My Lord, you speak a new Language I understand not.

Cle:

Alas Madam, I have this night seen Visions! and do find my passion, growing much above my own command; —For when I look on your Eyes, I forget that there are Gods, and shall do such Idolatry to you, as will provoke them, to make me more miserable, then you can wish me happy; — Bnt when I consider how vast a Chasme, your resolves have made between us; I sink into such an abyss of misery, that I can nee'r get out of.

Pan:

I understand you lesse, and lesse; —The more you say, the more you do confound my judgment.

Lin:

All this Madam, is onely to let us see, how he could talk; if any Woman were worthy of his real love; —pray my Lord proceed,—I shall take Notes and edifie.

[Pulls out a Table-Book.]

Cle:

Your mirth Madam, is now out of season, when every word I utter, flowes from my wounded heart.

Lin:

Why do you not speak to me then? who can change my mind as often as your self? I was made for you; this Lady is im∣pregnable.

Cle:

I yield Lindamira, let not your wit destroy a man, that does submit to mercy; I beg quarter.

Lin:

Oh! do you so?

Pan:

'Tis enough Lindamira, that he does confesse himself o're∣come, let it be Registred amongst our Victories; —And now my Lord, what is your next desire?

Cle:

My next Madam! I have scarce begun with this, you do mi∣stake all I say for mirth; Does not my looks and Language shew an Alteration? —All those Chymeras, that did possess my idle head, are vanished, and I become a serious man: —Your Miracle is already wrought, and I now see the onely way to my Felicitie, is to gain what I so much contemn'd.

Lin:

Excellently well Acted, this might cozen twenty, that did not know him.

Pan:

You shall do well my Lord to pursue this new path, untill you do obtain a general opinion of your virtue; But I hope you would not have us credit it at first sight!

Cle:

Though my love cannot yet gain credit in your esteem, do not deny me the joy to think, that you see how much I love, and ho∣nour you.

Pan:

This is too serious for our Comedy my Lord.

Cle:

Nothing can be too serious Madam, to expresse my love, by which the Gods are pleas'd to bring me to them; thus by forbidding what might intice me to slight Paradice, by having had you here: —'Tis fit then that I submit, and raise a joy from what I am now too apt to repine at, for 'tis a blessing to be so fixt, as Antidates my Elizium here on Earth; this Souls joy will endure like its own nature, unto Eternity.

Pan:

What think you of this Lindamira?

Lind:

I think he is in love, he talkes such nonsence!

Pan:

You are cured then Clearcus, and will unto the Prince confess your conversion, if we call you to it?

Cle:

Propose a way for my acknowledgment, and try.

Lin:

Let us take time Madam to consider of it, lest we loose half the Entertainment by our haste, and so spoil the jest.

Cle:

Madam, let not this Ladies mirth prevaile with your good na∣ture, to afflict a man, who can live only by your smiles.

Pan:

I must confesse I have some pain, to hold in my smiles thus long, for this serious way of fooling, I expected not from you my Lord.

Cle:

Why Madam, do you take all this for jest still?

Pan:

Yes indeed do I.

Cle:

By all the powers above, I do Adore you, next to them I Worship.

Lin:

That's no Oath Madam, for he Worships none:

Pan:

I have the same thoughts Lindamira, and am safe.

Cle:

What a Monster am I grown, give me credit Madam, or give me death? —If I do not love you, let Iove strike me with suddain thun∣der, or I will gladly seal what I have said with my best blood, if nothing less will satisfie.

Pan:

Hold Clearcus.

[He drawes.]

Lin:

Oh! let him alone, hee'l not hurt himself, he only hopes to fright us.

Pan:

My Lord you fright me now, and since you think fit to turne our Commick Scene into a Tragedy; I shall quit my part in it; and from this time, admit no farther visits from you: —Let us retire Linda∣mira, his converse growes dangerous.

Exeunt Ladies.

Cle:

This had been my fate, had I ingaged a little farther, and this the fruit of chast, virtuous love; What a folly 'tis, to give our freedomes up, unto the will of Women, so humbly to obey, those we are Created to command: —But I am safe yet, and will now play with 'um, at their own game; and through a seeming sorrow for my rejection, laugh at them, who think to laugh at me.

[Enter Lonzartes.]

Lon:

A good day unto my Friend.

Cle:

You speak too late Lonzartes, this is a fatal day, and I am study∣ing how I may make it more Eminent by Death, then by my sufferings.

Lon:

Why what's the matter man? have you visited the Ladies be∣fore they are drest? and made 'um froward.

Cle:

Thy love Lonzartes has ruin'd me; —yet I thank thee for my conversion, I shall now dye a sober man.

Lon:

Thy looks speak some disaster, tell me the worst, that I may joyn to find a Remedy.

Cle:

In a word then, I do love Pandora, as she deserves, and did so to the life expresse my love; that in spight of Lindamiras mirth, she did believe it, and has forbid my farther visits.

Lon:

'Tis not possible that she can be so fool'd, she forbad thee in jest, come let us go to her now.

Cle:

I'le swear she did forbid me, and in great anger turn'd from me, I dare not go.

Lon:

This is pretty, wouldst thou have me believe thou lovest?

Cle:

Lonzartes, I am not in humour to be play'd with.

Lon:

Nor I in humour to be fool'd; what would'st thou have me say, when thou talk'st thus to me? thou in love! Ha, ha.

Cle:

What shall I say? what do, to beget faith in thee? —Pandora's resolution against Marriage, which I so much rejoyc'd at, is fatally be∣come my scourge, and I must dye, or have her.

Lon:

That's the onely way to obtain belief; do but hang thy self, and then a Printed Ballad (The Dary-Maids greatest Faith;) will make them swear thou dyedst for love.

Cle:

Do my looks agree with so much jest? does not my Face de∣clare, my heart does love?

Lon:

No, nor ever can do to me, wouldst thou have me belye my self, that thou mayest laugh at me? these shallow Plots are lost on me.

Exit Lonzartes.

Cle:

This is right, had I been fool'd into the Platonick pound; I might have knock'd my head against the Walls, and never been belie∣ved; —Thus I blow away those bubbles, ••hose ayrie Lectures of chast love! which lead silly mortals into slavery; —Ha Sanga.

[Enter Sanga.]

Sanga.

Your pleasure Sir.

Cle:

Go presently, and summon all that merry Crew, (who danc'd the other day,) to sup with me this Night; and bid the Musick come.

Exit Sanga.

Sanga.

I go Sir▪

Cle:

I will retreat while I am safe, and be Arm'd against my Wise, Virtuous, Chast Friends, with their Cobweb Netts, so subtilly laid to catch me; —Thus I throw all their Inchantments off; —And now like the Grand Seignor, after some great Victory atcheiv'd; —I will retire to my Seraglio.

Exit.

Enter the Duke, with Theodocia, Pandora, Linda∣mira, Teretia, and Train: —and Silvander.

Duke.

You tell me a story beyond belief Theodocia, Clear••us playes with you all this while; he love?

The:

If Pandora be mistaken, he will triumph over Women-kind for ever▪

Pan:

I wish it were no worse Sir, 'tis I who now am to be pittied, who for the common sport, and for his good, have brought an evill on my self, I cannot bear.

Duke.

Why Pandora, he is descended of our own Blood, and his Estate proportionable to his Birth? so that if you can raise his Virtues above his vices, you'l have no cause to murmur at his love.

Pan:

True Sir, if I were nor ingag'd to a single life, much might be said, to set Clearcus's merrits above mine.

Lin:

Is there no dispensation for such resolves Madam? when it may be disputed, whether the gods approve them? —They give us Lawes enough, we need none of our own making.

Pan:

My heart will nee'r consent to alter my resolves.

Lin:

We shall have enough to do then.

The.

Let us all agree to laugh him out of it.

Lin:

You will find little cause for mirth, when you see Clearcus next Madam.

The:

Can so few hours, alter a man of his temper, so much?

Lin:

He is asham'd of his first Principles, and is angry at that shame; He hates himself for loving, and loves so much, he dares not wish it less; This mixture of passions, does beget such a confusion of thoughts, that makes him look as if he had fed on nought but sighes, and tears this twelve Mounth; and I fear we shall have cause to turn our laughter into sorrow for him.

Duke.

I'le give him Commands that shall divert him; —come with me Theodocia.

Ezeunt Duke and Theodoci••.

Lin:

'Tis great pitty so brave a man should be so lost.

Pan:

'Tis so Lindamira, but how can it be help'd? must I become mad, because he is so; —'Twas not a rash word, by chance let fall, but on debate and mature judgment, because I saw none so happy after Marriage as before; —Why may not I then live and dye, as free as I was borne?

Lin:

You see why, because the Gods do not allow so great felicity on Earth, as might keep us from ever wishing to be with them; pray who ever heard of a pair of true Lovers, that desir'd to be in Heaven, if they might stay here till Doomsday? 'Tis therefore for our good, that such united hearts are so rarely to be found on Earth; take heed Pandora, that you bring not more evils on your head, then you fore-see.

Pan:

I must now bear my Fortune as I may.

Lin:

Though you have not met with many happy Marriages, I have heard of some, who all their lives have had a constant Spring of Love; their passions so high, and joyes so great, each striving to raise the others happinesse above their own; this I believe, and hope for; —Me∣thinks till I am married, I am a thing laid by, as if forgotten by the Gods.

Pan:

'Tis not high passions, nor great joyes, I doubt to find, but their continuance; —suppose the Gallant Lovers, to the Warres be sent, what terrours will possess their frighted Ladies, 'till their return? and if miscarry? what will their whole lives have to joy at after?

Lin:

Those who stay at home, may have equall dangers, these are anticipated dreams of evils, that may never happen; then you conceive not the joy those dangers bring, when they are over; this World affords us nothing to relish our delights by, but such accidents, as love, which some fears, and dangers bring; 'Tis sharps, make sweet, the sweeter!

Pan:

But if I am satisfied with less ioyes, without those pains you find so usefull, why must I try to gaine more happiness? then I do wish for, when I have joyes enough allready.

Lin:

Joyes enough Madam! there is no such thing in Nature, as e∣nough of what we love.

Pan:

I am weary of this idle talk.

Lin:

And I know no better Entertainment.

[Enter to them Lonzartes, and Silvander.]

Pan:

How think you Silvander, is Clearcus what he seems?

Sil:

Lonzartes knows him best Madam.

Lon:

I do believe he loves, though I seem not to credit him, and am now resolv'd to play with his passion, as he has done with mine; 'twill entertain the Princess rarely, to see how I shall anger him.

Sil:

Is he enough fix't? to be so abus'd, for if neither Men, nor

Women have any faith in his budding love, he may fly off for ever.

Lon:

I am now going to see what humour he is in.

Sil:

I'le wait on you.

Pan:

Pray do, and let me know how I must behave my self, that would not hurt him.

Lin:

I can direct you best, if you'l trust your self to me!

Pan:

I shall trust you as farre as any, in this affaire; let us consult within.

Exeunt.

Enter Clearcus and Sanga, with Men, and Women Dancers.

Cle:

Welcome my dear Friends, I will be no more seduc'd by grave Lonzartes fooleries; this night shall re-unite us, while we live: —Is the Musique come?

San:

Not yet Sir.

Cle:

I have broke through their Nets, and now the day, and night are ours to Revel in; we will be so merry, that our hearts shall seem much lighter then our heels.

[Enter Sanga.]

Sanga.

Lonzartes, and Silvander are without.

Cle:

They are come as I could wish, I'le entertain 'um, as they de∣serve; they are my kind, chast, virtuous, well-wishing spies; —pray

[Exeunt Dancers.]

retire all into that Gallery, while I dispatch my Court-Friends: —San∣ga, shut the windowes close, then call 'um in, and say, that I am grown sad of late, monstrous sad! —Now for a grave face to suit with my

Exit Sanga.

disquise; I have some fear my sides will burst, with holding in my laughter.

[He sits in a sad posture.]

[Enter Sanga with Lonzartes, and Silvander.]

Sanga.

Softly pray; —for a strange Melancholy has seiz'd him on the suddain; —He is now talking to Pandora.

Sil:

She is not here!

San:

He entertains her Idea in her absence, with the same passion, he would her; —the only sure way for a lovers happinesse; —hark.

Cle:

Blessed Angel, turn not away; —these tears must be my daily Incence, offer'd at your feet; if you refuse this Tribute? from my cap∣tiv'd heart, you'l turn the Elizium I enjoy, to Hell: Oh stay! and take my Soul with thee; —that gentle look! that: —

Lon:

Why so sad fond lover? let not one repulse dismay so great a

[Lon: inter∣rupts him.]

Conqueror; thy next charge may prove more prosperous; —we come to councel thee Clearcus, and to raise thy drooping Spirits by new hopes!

Cle:

Or to laugh at my affliction! whose Soul is sunk so low by my dispair, that all my Spirits are vanished; I must submit to my Cativity Lonzartes.

[He sighes.]

Lon:

That sigh had almost blown me over, yet I am glad to see this, and am now full satisfied thou art in love, in love Clearcus; —let me imbrace my fellow-Prisoner, we will now shake our shackles, to the same sad tune together.

Cle:

I know you come to mock me; but I must bear it.

Lon:

Oh no! who can have so hard a heart? we pitty you, and have some fears Pandoras heart will break, when we relate your mighty suf∣ferings; —but if I should sit thus in the dark? would it create the like Angelical Idea in my brain, Clearcus?

Cle:

This is barbarous, to catch a Lyon in your Toyles, and bait him like an Asse; —thus to render my passion Ridiculous, will beget Pan∣doras scorn, and may prove my destruction!

Lon:

If she discern not your passion, how can she proportion her fa∣vours, to your merrit?

Cle:

Do I deserve this mirth from you? thus to heighten my affliction.

Lon:

Do you not? —all that I can do this Twelve-month, will not bring me on equal termes, for thy abuses: —remember how you held me to the Ladies, and made me your mirth, by which scandal, you de∣stroy'd my credit with the Princess, this is my revenge, ha, ha.

Cle:

'Twas a great scandal indeed! to procure you the Princess leave to love her; by my means you have obtain'd a happinesse, be∣yond your hopes, which all your whining Poetry, or your Eternall sighes, could never reach; —for which special service; —prethee good sweet Lonzartes spare me: —by our old Friendship I do beg: —by

[Hangs on him.]

thy own virtue, and unparalel'd chast heart, I do conjure thee, not to raise a publique mirth, out of my Souls sorrow, which you have brought me to.

Lon:

Well then, if I find you do continue thus humbly penitent, and truly thus afflicted, I will shew more mercy, then I found from

[Embraces Clearcus:]

you: —come chear up, we will sigh, and condole together, and if pos∣sible? so order our sad hearts, that both may the same moment break, and infect the World with such a sorrow! as may fright the Female Sex, from like rigour unto men: so shall we become a Noble Sacri∣fice to love, for the good of a whole Nation. —or if you please, wee'l send for some of our old Gang, to dance, and drink these Melancholly vapours from our hearts; to let the Ladies see, their Beauties are not so destructive, as we make them believe.

[Clearcus Imbraces Lonzartes with great joy.]

Cle:

I marry Lonzartes; now, thou talkest like a Phylosopher, now, thou prescribest the onely remedy for our disease! Sanga, —bid the Musick strike a chearful Ayre, and then call in those Friends in the next Room: —Nay, if you allow this way of cure? I shall soon expel loves venome from my heart, into my heeles.

[Embraces Lon:]

Lon:

What is all this Clearcus? art thou mad still?

Lonzartes starts back.

Cle:

I am wise, and do not mean to quit my cool, pleasant, flowry paths, for your consuming flames of restless love, who walke on tops of Steeples, and at that height, plead, that your chast desires, are plea∣sing to the Gods; —But I, who know the end of such fair flashes, as at first appear, with such folded Armes, and down cast looks, are but steps, to approach the Ladies fingers ends; —

—Then by degrees grown bolder, you aspire, Till nought but ruine, quench the subtle fire.

[Enter Dancers.]

Lon:

what doest thou mean by this misterious language? and this Rabble here?

Cle:

I mean to follow thy advise, —to sigh only when I make love to Ladies, (their backs turn'd) I mean to dance, and sing as often as I can, that their neglects may pierce no deeper then their Eyes discern; —here Lonzartes, this Girle will cure the bite of a Tarantula, and drive the poyson from thy heart.

Lon:

Out Hypocrite; —is this thy love unto Pandora? was all thy passions counterfeit, the other day?

Cle:

No, 'twas fairly growing up to equal thine in all sincerity of Noble thoughts; But the nice Lady, would not permit it to take so deep root as yours, before she blasted all my hopes, and in a moment let me see, that love is like a bitter po••ion, which many tast, and flying away, rather chusing their disease, then so ill a relished remedy; This made me return to my old Antidotes Lonzartes; —what think you of a heat or two, before you go? —call in the Musique.

Sil:

Pandora was to blame, to throw him off so rashly.

Lon:

Let us retyre Silvander, this Ayre is infected.

Exeunt Lonzartes and Silvander.

Cle:

Go whine fond Lover, go whine, I say, go whine, While we chear our hearts with Wenches, and Wine, I say go whine.

Exeunt omnes.

HERETHEY DANCE.

[Enter Lonzartes, Lindamira, and Ladies.]

Lin:

I do not wonder that he is fallen off, 'twas what I feared, when his passion went so high; I saw Pandora was concern'd, but we will bring it on again.

Lon:

You are mistaken Madam, all he said then was jest, for he is now as mad as ever; —I left him Incirculed with six wild men, and as ma∣ny wanton Girles, prepar'd to Dance, and Revel all the Night.

Lin:

There is no harm in Dancing my Lord, unlesse they do catch cold; you judge Clearcus by what is past; but when I see him with Pandora next, I'le give my opinion of his concern.

Lon:

By what means may their meeting be procured?

Lin:

Wee'l think on't.

[Enter Theodocia, and Ladies to them.]

The:

I am sorry Lonzartes, that Pandora has cast off Clearcus, which has occasioned his relapse, when a little patience, would have setled him in the way of virtue.

Lon:

'Tis every way, what I expected not; his love was as strange, as his rejection, and his relapse in the old humour, beyond all the rest; —I know not what to think of him.

Lin:

Let us bring them once more together, and I'le undertake to guesse at both their hearts; it may be govern 'um.

Lon:

I Madam, but how shall they be brought together? when both, would rather see a Basaliske, then one another.

Lin:

You may be mistaken my Lord, who judge by what you see, when 'tis our businesse, and our virtue, not to shew our hearts, 'till a full tryal, that men are worthy of them; —then you forget, that Clearcus conversion, must be by one, he cannot conquer.

The:

But if he will neither conquer, nor be subdued, how can his con∣version follow?

Lin:

If your Highnesse can contrive an interview, I have a fancy in my head, that may reconcile them, and effect what we all wish.

The:

I will send presently for Pandora, and intreat my Father, to pretend some businesse, to call Clearcus hither.

Lon:

He will suspect.

Lin:

Let him come, no matter what he suspects.

The:

Do you Lonzartes, once more see what humour he is in.—

—We must endeavour, and not fear to try, But trust the Event, unto their destiny.

Exeunt severally.

[Enter Duke with Silvander and Lords.]

Duke.

I ever thought Clearcus did but mock, and laugh at their designes; his Brain is not yet ripe for serious Love: —But how does Theodocia look on Lonzartes?

Sil:

With much neglect Sir.

Duke.

That is not well, have you Silvander instructed Lindamira, that she may inform Theodocia of Lonzartes Title to this Dukedome? and how much better then a Forraine Prince, her Marrying him, will be applauded by our people, who are not ignorant of his pretence.

Sil:

I have Sir, and the Princess gives a serious ear to it, though she yet makes no reply; a little of your Councel, and Authority, I believe may incline her to a better value of him.

Duke.

That shall not be wanting, Lonzartes is all that I can wish in a Successor; —and his love looks so without design, that I will cherish it, and try to win my Daughter to comply.

Sil:

Your Highness will gain a double interest in all your Subjects hearts, by this honour to Lonzartes, who has merrits proportionable to your favour, and his birth, all which his love gives Lustre to.

Duke.

I see it Silvander, and will recompence his Faith, and his Hu∣mility, with my advice to Theodocia, who yet knowes not his story.

Sil:

The Princess must needs hear, what every body talks, and all do wish!

Duke.

I shall now inform her fully of Lonzartes Right, too long held from him: bid him meet me at my Daughters Chamber; I will no longer hide my purpose for him: —

—His Birth and Virtue, with his constant Love, Declares he never can unworthy prove.

Exeunt,

THE FIFTH ACT.

[Enter Lonzartes and Clearcus.]

Cle:

NO, I'le never see her more.

Lon:

Do you not love at all?

Cle:

Nor ever will, methinks Love is like a smooth Water, that invites men to Bath, and tumble in it with delight, untill they be destroyed by Serpents, which in the bottom undiscover'd lie.

Lon:

What means this similie?

Cle:

This Serpents bite, has Metamorphized you into a whining lover, into the shaddow of a man, of late become a shape without a Soul; why must I busie my head with such Chymeras's, when I can please my self, to my hearts wish, my own way? — Prethee sweet sup∣press'd Prince, do not forsake me thus, for specious shewes of happi∣nesse, or vaner hopes of better dayes, then you will ever find in Court; —You are now safe, but when you grow wise, and serious, it will in the Dukes head great jealousies create; to let him see your Virtue may be dangerous; and your pretence appear worthy of his fear.

Lon:

That hazzard is better, then what I now suffer, in the opinion of my best Friends, who believe this wildnesse, is my Nature, or such as may beget a habit in me, which I can nee'r put off; and thus my se∣curity in this disguise, may become my ruine; — I wish I could per∣swad you Clearcus, to shew forth that Virtue, all the World would wonder at.

Cle:

To what end I pray? if the good Duke would give me im∣ployment fit for his Kinsman? and worthy of my Sword, I could soon be my self: But now I have nothing else to do, and therefore play away my time in folly; and 'tis a hard question which is best? for we know that too much wisdome, does undoe more men, then it advan∣ces, or else begets Eternal slavery, to State Affairs, where the wisest,

ever walk on needles points; —I have weighed these things, and do be∣lieve 'tis better to maintain the peace, and the security I now live in, unregarded, then to be advanc'd according to my birth.

Lon:

But you will loose the Dukes favour, and become contemp∣table to the whole Court, if you continue thus extravagant, what de∣signe can I have, by my desire, to see you great and glorious?

Cle.

Have I not tryed, and been misled: yielded to your wise Ma∣ximes, against my own better judgment, and been rejected in the height of my endeavours, to be (as you call it) great, and glorious, is not this true? does not Pandora with the whole Court, scorne me but for see∣ming. wise.

Lon:

Yes, in part, 'cause they believe it not.

Cle:

I will no more of your advice, 'till you can cure your self.

Lon:

I have an Honourable Argument for my love.

Cle:

Who has not? untill he be dispis'd!

Lon:

Was it not your own desire to be neglected? did you not declare against all Women, that you could conquer? you left Pandora no way for Victory, but by rejecting you; so that I can conclude a good su••csess, from what you raise dispair.

Cle:

Ha! think you Pandora did reject me, in compliance with my humour only?

Lonzar:

What else? can she be angry with you, for loving her too much?

Cle:

You do surprize me with a discourse I look'd not for; —but I will be no more abus'd; —I will not see her.

Lonzar:

How can you be reconcil'd then? shall she make love to you?

Cle:

No, I abhorre that thought, beyond her anger, a woman Wooe, that were preposterous!

Lon:

Will you treat by Embassadours? and Wed by Proxie?

Clear:

Nor so, that's only fit for Princes, who cannot meet to treat.

Lon:

Will you have her? if she declares she would have you?

Cle:

I shall never like her change of mind.

Lon:

Can' you tell whether you would have her, or not?

Cle:

That's a harder question, then the other.

Lon:

Will you have her by compulsion?

Cle.

That were a Tyranny, would make her hate me ever.

Lon:

Shall the Duke by his Prerogative power, in spight of both your teeth, compel you both to compliance?

Cle:

Let me think on this a little, at first sight this looks likely to agree us: —if two impossibilities can make one possible? this might do our businesse.

Lon:

Well, what do you resolve?

Cle:

Nothing, why do you tempt me to farther evils? —I know not what to resolve, nor what to say; —but will no more of love, my heart shakes at the thought of my last tryal; —I blush to think how much lesse then man I was, and hovv much more then Woman, I crea∣ted her, in those fevv houres I lov'd; —

[Enter a Messenger.]

Messen:

The Duke calls for Lonzartes.

Lon:

I'le attend his Highnesse presently▪

Cle:

I take you for my Friend Lonzartes; —do not discourse me into a Ruine, you will share in.

Lon:

I have no Rule for friendship above my desire to see you happy.

Cle:

I believe it Sir, and beg your pardon for my distracted language; —I must attend the Duke too.

Lon:

And I.

Exeunt.

Enter Pandora and Lindamira.

Pan:

You tire me Lindamira, and chide me for a fault, I cannot own; I had no other way to free my self.

Lin:

You might have check'd his approaches with somewhat lesse severity, your rigour may beget despair in him.

Pan:

Dispair of what? my undertaking was only on the Dukes command, to afford him civil visits, which I have done, in hope of his conversion.

Lin:

You did give o're, before the work was perfected.

Pan:

You speak as if the design to set him free, were to inslave me, to the humour of a mad man.

Lin:

The wildest young men, do often prove the soberest at the last; and the truth is Madam, we do all desire to see you, and Clearcus, con∣vert one another; so to beget that unity of hearts, which the World seeks most.

Pan:

Do you believe that I, who have a prejudice against the best of men, can e're esteem the worst?

Lin:

If Clearcus were under that notion! I should have other thoughts; but when I consider such men reclaim'd, do often make good Husbands I have hopes of him.

Pan:

If his wildnesse were his only fault, time, and experience might reclaim him.

Lin:

If these be your only Exceptions Madam, I wish you would trust me to mannage this affair.

Pan:

You must not talk me into an Intreque, which I avoid; —I do not love him.

Lin:

You will do, when you have him, I know many have done so after Marriage, who did not before.

Pan:

That is too bold a venture for me, who have no faith in men; and those Examples you mention so rarely to be found, my courage dares not undertake it; pray no more of this.

Lin:

The Princess desires your company at Court this Evening.

Pan:

I did intend to wait on her.

[Enter Duke, Theodocia, and Lonzartes.]

Duke.

I have given you Arguments enough on his behalf, which his dejected looks you see declare; —Your favours Theodocia should not be restrain'd, because his adoration is so great, he dares not beg 'um; come near Lonzartes.

The:

Lonzartes's Worth is understood, beyond the weak Rhetorick of flattering words; he cannot wish to be more valued, then he is by me.

Lon:

Nor will I ever sue for favours, beyond these you now afford me Madam; —may I confirm my hopes, by understanding what you say, my own way?

The:

You may, for since my Father does so much advise for Mar∣riage, I may alter my opinion, when I find just cause to value men, above my resolves against them.

Lon:

For Heavens sake Madam say no more, my breast cannot contain these spreading joyes you give me, my hopes increase too fast, for my dispairing heart, to comprehend these honours you allow, with∣out an Extacy!

Duke.

Theodocia, I shall nee'r revoke the freedome I have given, to make your own choice, though I direct you to Lonzartes, to whom our Ancestors have done wrong.

The:

This your indulgence Sir, makes me more cautious, how I pro∣ceed; —Marriage is a concern so great, I dare not at once resolve it, and the same day chuse the man: —I can yet only say, that I have alter'd my opinion, in favour of Lonzartes.

Lon:

My Amazement, and my concern are too great, to answer Ma∣dam, my felicity is above the reach of a reply.

Duke.

Theodocia, I have given you my best Councel, and my full consent to please your self.

The:

I thank you Sir, and I will endeavour to regulate my heart to your advise, and to Lonzartes wish; —give me but time to examine, and approve, what I am willing to submit to.

Enter Pandora, and Lindamira to them, with Silvander.

Duke.

How is it Madam, that you quit the field? before your un∣dertaking be perform'd.

Pan:

I have done my part Sir, which was on your command, to al∣low him civil visits; and to entertain the Princess, I complyed with Lindamira, to try how our Raleary would work on him, which did pro∣duce so unlook'd for an effect, that I was forc'd to quit my part, to save my self:

Duke.

Were you in danger to be lost then? —I did not think Cle∣arcus had prevail'd so farre; but if he be reclaim'd, he will be worthy your esteem.

Pan:

Your Highnesse did mistake me, I was in no danger to be lost through love, nor at all concern'd; for a man who does declare against all worth in Women, where he can get an interest: pray Sir, make me understand what you would have me do?

Duke.

We would have you marry Clearcus.

Pan:

Whether he will or no; —if I consent, can you prevail with him?

Duke.

Do you comply, wee'l try what we can do?

Pan:

I would not be Treypand into a Marriage, I am so much averse to, in confidence of his old humour, think my self secure, and be so lost!

Lin:

You may venture safely Madam, you see he is so great a Co∣ward, that he only dares pursue them that fly him, do but charge, and he will runne away.

Pan:

If I were sure of that! I would seem any thing, to be freed from farther trouble.

Lon:

Trust me Madam, he is now worse then ever.

Duke.

Lonzartes, pray use your interest to bring him to us now.

Exit Lonzartes.

The:

Do you think Cousin, we have a design to harm you?

Pan:

No, but your Highnesse disputes me into a condition, your self does not approve; pray shew me the way to this felicity, that I may credit what you say, by what you do.

The:

Will you then ingage to marry Clearcus? the same day I marry?

Pan:

Shall I chuse your man? as you would mine?

The:

Suppose I have already chosen.

Pan:

I thought your Highnesse had been of my opinion; But if provided, I give you joy.

The:

Now you runne too fast the other way, I am only towards marriage.

Pan:

That journey seldome proves long Madam, when we look to∣wards it.

Lin:

That was said like a sage Sibell, the quintessence of truth, in few words, 'tis but a willing mind, and then—

Pan:

Prethee Lindamira help me to be rid of this uncertain man.

Lin:

I know no better councel, then to be in love with him, or to seem so, for if he should take you at your word, and marry, that may do your work; for I once knew a Lady, who chose to marry an impor∣tunate Sutor, that she might be rid of him, and was so; for soon after marriage, they parted, and never met more.

Pan:

You are allwayes in jest, I would have serious councell now.

Lin:

You have had my story twice over, to no purpose.

Duke.

By all my observations, I cannot judge, whether Clearcus, or you Pandora, be most extravagant.

Lin:

Your Highnesse may do well, to put them into the Colledge of half mad Folks, where they will either cure one another, or become quite mad together; when their disease is known, some remedy may be found; 'tis now past judgment, what either of them ayle!

The:

Lindamira saies well, 'tis very strange you will not declare so farre, as to let us see how we may serve you.

Pan:

Do but leave me to my self, and I am well Madam.

The:

Many sick people are of that opinion, when in most danger, and must therefore by their friends be govern'd.

Pan:

As many healthy people, think themselves sick, when they are not, and by seeking Remedies for nothing, do create evils, they ne∣ver can finde cure for; such high passions as Lindamira's, do never let us rest in peace, but do create perpetuall storms.

Lin:

You argue well Madam, if a dull calme, were the onely happi∣nesse, appointed us on Earth, then one degree from being a sleep, would prove our greatest bliss; —sure no age did e're produce, two such Icy-hearted Ladies, as the Princess, and you.

[Enter to them Lonzartes and Clearcus.]

Lin:

Here comes a Homely, and a Jigg hand in hand; —now for the second part to the same tune, Of love me, and love me not.

Duke.

Clearcus, it troubles me to see you delight in a retired dark∣nesse, or else to walk in such clouds, as we cannot see through; I would perswade you to regain Pandora's good opinion.

Cle:

Is the mistery of love, to be discuss'd in publique Sir?

Duke.

With us, who are so near alli'd unto you both; I think it may, because we all know what you both profess in private, and now desire to hear, what you will face to face avow; and we intreat you Pandora, first to shew, why you threw off Clearcus.

Pan:

You do amaze me Sir, to examine me as a Criminal!

Duke.

You have no cause for this displeasure Pandora, but mis-judge our love and our respects; we know your worth, and would to the World Illustrate that virtue, you design to smother by a single life; I allow your purpose, did become your younger dayes, and did expresse an Angelicall innocence; but I question whether now, on mature judg∣ment, you may not do better for your self, and us, to reclaim Clearcus.

Pan:

You demand impossibilities from me, for if I should change my mind, he will change his too; Pray shew me a rule to reclaim him by, before you do condemn me.

Duke.

We onely desire you will afford him the same civility, as did first induce him to adore that Virtue he dispised before.

Pan:

I have done this.

The:

You did begin, but you gave o're too soon.

Lin:

And all her kindness but in jest too Madam, which he dis∣cern'd.

Duke.

How do you answer this? Lindamira was of your Councel.

Pan:

I undertook him but in jest, and was by him injoyn'd to such severity, as I perform'd, and 'twas then thought, the onely way to vin∣dicate our Sex, and to work his conversion, which he at first did counter∣feit so well, as to deceive, and fright me from his farther visits.

Lin:

Was his love so terrible?

Pan:

To me it was, who thought him uncapable of ever having no∣ble thoughts, for any of our Sex.

Duke.

But when you found him growing worthy, why did you not cherish that virtue? as your own Creation.

Lin:

Because she fear'd, her Virgin vow might be defil'd, by ow∣ning such a Man••child of her own begetting; for he began to aske her blessing, 'till she laugh'd him into so great anger, that one day he

proffer'd to kill himself, which gave end unto our Comedy.

Pan:

If his cure had lain within the reach of Raleary, I had gloried in my part, but never shall consent to inslave my self unto the humours of a man, who cannot be a minute in one mind; his imaginations are be∣yond the Moon, and would have, he knowes not what▪

Duke.

Clearcus, you have heard your charge; —Guilty or not Guilty?

Lin:

Guilty Sir.

Cle:

I shall never want your good word Madam; — Lindamira tells you true Sir, I am guilty.

Duke.

Of what?

Cle:

Of all the crimes, that offended Lady does object; pray Sir pronounce my doom, and put me out of pain.

Duke.

Will you submit then, and obey it?

Cle:

If it can put me out of pain, I will?

Duke.

I doubt it not; —my sentence is, that you revive that love you shew'd unto Pandora lately.

Cle:

Oh Sir, the very name of Love, puts me into a shaking fit; for Heavens sake, give me Halters, Poysons, Daggers, any means to let out life, rather then renew those torments, which I felt that hour I lov'd.

Lin:

Pray Sir, give me leave, to put him some Interrogatories.

Duke.

Do so.

Lin:

Your Lordship has confest, that you have lov'd one hour, and must have some reason why you lov'd no longer; shew us that reason, or for ever hold your peace, and submit to judgment.

The:

How Clearcus, nonplust by a Judge in Petticoates?

[Clearcus stands mute.]

Lin:

Why Madam? many of our Sex have puzled the wisest men; —give him leave to think a little; but if what I have said, has struck your Lordship dumb, hold up your Finger, —'tis enough; —He has

[He hold it up.]

nothing to say for himself, but submits unto the mercy of the Court; I understand him Sir; —and have now found a remedy for both their evils; —If you will trust me with your hand my Lord, I will not harm it: —and if I have credit enough Madam! to be trusted with your hand

[Clearcus gives his hand.]

too, pray lay it without fear on mine, that I may try a charm I have, to conjure out the evil Spirits, that possesse you both; —you may at your own pleasure, take back your hands; —only let me hold 'um, while I pronounce my charm within.

[Pandora turns away.]

Duk.

Pandora I intreat you to try Lindamira's charm, give her your hand, she deals not with the Divel.

[Pandora gives her hand.]

Lin:

The Divel I work by Sir, is truth, drest in her rich Robe of Innocence; —if truth do not convince both these Delinquents, my charm will have no power on them; —My Lord you have in this great Assembly, often said, that you could never value any Woman you could win; —if now you have found this Lady, as impregnable, as you can wish, she is your fate; —hold Sir, remember you are dumb, 'till I

[He proffers to speak.]

have done; —Now Madam, I must speak serious sence to you, who stand here the expectation, and the wish of all the Court; — yet I know, you must not consent to give your hand to him, nor in a look, or word comply, with what I say; for if you yield, Clearcus will forsake the

Field: —I shall therefore only put your hands together, no marri∣age, nor no contract make, onely desire that you will thus hand in hand, retire a while with me in private, to apply my charm, who now do pray, that all the evils which ever did befall the most unhappy lovers, may light on him, or you, that shall their hand remove, before my charme does work; now come with me.

Exeunt hand in hand.

Duke.

What the issue of this will be, I cannot guesse; — Now The∣odocia, I must remind you of Lonzartes, who dares not approach you, on his own behalf, who is, what you can wish, to make you happy; and I do again invite you to Crown his unparalell'd Humility, with a bliss, he presumes not once to mention, lest it offend you; I have also a State Argument you understand not Theodocia, your two interests in this Dukedome, thus united, will make it flourish; —Lonzartes has been wrong'd.

The:

I know his wrong Sir, and have observ'd his sufferings, or I had never dallied with his love; Lonzartes's clear Soul is adorn'd with more glories, then this Crown will bring him.

Duke.

If then your hearts agree, give me your hands; —here Lon∣zartes is the best reward I have, to incourage modesty, and worth; whey they do in one heart combine, as now in thine.

Lon:

Great Sir, I am so much surprized, so over-loaden with my joyes, that I have nought but blushes to expresse my gratitude; —nor know I how to welcome this unlook'd for honour from the Princess, who dains to raise her humblest Servant from her feet, to set me on a Throne, incirculed with more joyes, then that you now restore me to.

[He kisses her hand.]

The:

Keep still your Character Lonzartes, as I will mine, high trans∣ports in love, are not long liv'd, I fear.

Lon:

I shall be Madam, whatever you direct, though this unlook'd for happinesse, do raise my heart above my own command, for such an excess of joy, is hard to mannage.

[Kisses her hand.]

[Enter Lindamira to them.]

Lin:

I may now wish your Highness Joy I hope, now your Fanna∣tick love, conformes to the Law of Nations; —Now you may talk your pleasure against high passions Madam; —and methinks you Sir, do look as if you lik'd this better then that wise Sect of ayrie Lovers, whose Phylosophy doth teach, not to desire, what they can never reach.

Lon:

You are Madam the best Phylosopher I ever met, and do de∣serve to have a Golden statue in Loves-Temple set.

Duke.

But how have you disposed of your Fantastick couple? 'tis that great work, must Crown all your undertakings Lindamira.

Lin:

That goes on excellently well Sir, I have left them sitting on a Couch, with their hands still ••ixt, eagerly gazing on each others Eyes, as if through them, they could discern the inside of each others Hearts; by their no motion, and their stedy looks, I can foresee they vvill be of one mind suddainly.

The:

Why could not vve see this Experiment?

Lin:

Oh Madam, my charm will not work in company; Lovers will seemingly dispise, what they like most, only to deceive observing Eyes; I believe they held off thus long, for shame to own what they had so publickly declar'd against; and to themselves will hardly dare to let their hearts appeare these two dayes; —they must look them∣selves into an Agreement, for no words can ever reconcile their first Principles.

If their hands, do not their hearts discover, I'le no more pretend to charm a Lover.

The:

May we not peep at the hanging, and stand unseen.

Duke.

Let us not turn this serious work into a jest, unlesse Lindami∣mira do approve it; none shall stir that way.

Lin:

I can place you so, as you may see and hear too.

The:

Pray Sir be pleas'd to look on them, our Testimony may be of use.

Duke.

Come then.

Lindam:

Your Highness must stand silent, or you'l hinder my Pro∣jection.

The:

We will, we will.

Exeunt.

They all Re-enter behind the Couch, and stand on each side of the Stage; then is discover'd Pandora, and Clearcus holding hands, and sitting on a Couch, a while silent, looking on each other; then Clearcus proffers to kiss that hand he holds, she puts him back with her other hand, and turns her face from him, —He sighes: —

Cle:

Turn not away those beautious lights, have guided me to Heaven; nor look as if you were in pain, to see my heart thus chang'd, from a rude destraction, to an extasie of Bliss; from a deformed Satyr, with a confus'd Chaos of dark thoughts, and blacker actions, by your glorious Beauties, and brighter Virtues, new form'd into the Figure of a man, Emulating those Excellencies I admire in you: — Oh turn this way, and own what is your own Creation; by your perfections rais'd from what was worse then nothing, to something now, too worthy to be cast away; I should this happy hour believe my self were in Elizi∣um; did not this fair, soft Hand, and those bright Eyes assure me I yet live; from whence some divine instinct, teaches my rude nature to a∣dore, what I never understood before.

Pan:

I do not like to be thus long left alone, to be expos'd unto your passion, and the Worlds censure; Lindamira has deceiv'd my trust; — I now see your plot, and her design discover, but will no lon∣ger suffer the abuse.

[Offers to rise.]

Cle:

Be not so cruel unto your self and me, think on the curse hangs over us, if we remove our hands 'till she return.

Pan:

'Tis too much foolery, to give faith to!

Cle:

Remember we complied, to what she said; by which her words are Registr'd in Heaven, and have ingaged the Gods by our consent.

Pan:

'Twas rashly done, and I repent; —when will this subtle

Sorceress return? my innocense will justifie my blind consent, to which I was misled by my fidelity and trust, and will no longer fear to take away my hand.

[Offers to rise.]

Cle:

Oh take not your hand away, untill the holy Charm have recti∣fied your heart, and therein created so much Charity, as in a moment may remove your scorns, and teach you love; for I, who so long sligh∣ted your neglects, and fled all civil favours from your Sex, do now tremble at the thought of parting hands, untill our hearts like them, become united.

Pan:

Do you believe Lindamira Mistris of such Magick? that her words have power to reconcile dissenting hearts, like ours:

Cle:

Yes, I find them work on me, and hope the same effect on you, else why sit we here obeying those commands she left? why fear we to offend those powers she did invoke? —when you consider this, I hope you dare not stirre a finger towards such impiety!

Pan:

Though Lindamira's virtue be approv'd, I was surprized by her inticing words, and by the Duke compell'd to do, I know not what; —and therefore will no longer now obey.

[Offers to rise; he holds her.]

Cle:

Stay, oh stay, and let the fatal curse strike me alone; my guilts have merrited what e're can fall on me; —Do but command me to remove my hand, and I'le obey; that you may see how much your power prevails, above my fear of Lindamira's threats: If so, I may di∣vert your harms: I will against my Nature, and my Faith, destroy all hopes of future bliss, to pull this ruine on my self, which else may light on you: —Say, must it be?

[Pandora sits silent a while.]

Pan:

If I command your hands remove, and her curse should after follow you, my unblemish'd innocense may suffer more, then all your crimes can merrit: —I have no faith in charmes, nor cause to apprehend her curses can reach me, and yet—

—My doubts and fears, my reason does dismay, I know not what to do, nor what to say; The Wonder is so great, I am afraid,

Aside.

Some god this Serpent, has an Angel made, And now indow'd him with Coelestial Art, To force obedience from my stubborn heart.

Cle:

'Tis worthy your consult, before you do destroy a body and soule: here, a ready Sacrifice to set you free, for now I find that Lin∣damira's charm does higher work!

And now again, that dazling light display, Which did my heart in flame the other day: Ye Gods, I do implore your power to move,

Aside.

The bright Pandora, to allow my love; 'Twill be the same, if now Clearcus dies, By Thunder struck, or by Pandora's Eyes!

Pan:

Lindamira's virtue, and her wit, are much more powerfull, then her charms; —(which I contemn,) but you my Lord, have now by chance thrown out such words, I shake to think on; —Your body and your Soul, are now at stake, you say; —and by your looks I read, you think our Fortunes, and our Fates, depend on my reply; —and so do I; —this is then too great a work, for so few minutes to dispatch; we must look up Clearcus, and from above seek ayde! —

'Tis piety, when we our hearts submit, To undergo, what e're the Gods think fit.

Cle:

'Tis so, let us hasten to the Temple then, there Celebrate: —

[They rise up.]

This happy issue of so strange contest, Wrought by the gods, must by the gods be blest.

He kisses her hand, three or four times in joy.

Cle:

Where is this powerfull Sibell gone? whose Sacred Charms do dis-inchant fantastick hearts.

Lin:

I am here Sir, with witnesse enough, to hold Pandora to her word.

Cle:

Let me adore thy Divine virtue Lindamira? who hath shew'd such skill, to raise dead folks to life; for we were dead in follies, and are now become true converts Sir.

Duke.

This is great Newes, you are both well come to your Wits again, which does declare Lindamira a great Artist.

The:

What sayes Pandora for her self?

Pan:

I have both waies done too much, either to excuse, or justifie my self; silence becomes me Madam.

Lin:

Let the Clock strike twice, before we credit what they say, or else make all sure, by I Clearcus take thee Pandora, &c.

Duke.

Lindamira is my Oracle; —give me your hand Pandora, and yours Clearcus.

May they most wretched live, and cursed dye, Who shall this knot endeavour to untye.

The:

My prayers concur with yours Sir, and now dear Cousin, what I wish'd is come to passe, that you and I might on the same day be Married:

Thus for our good we see the Gods fulfill What they designe, though much against our will.

Pan:

Your great example Madam, is sufficiennt to lead me from all my own resolves to follow you, and if now Clearcus be reclaim'd, we must own all our happinesse to Lindamira's wit, who has conquer'd both, when neither of us could subdue the other; And now Clearcus I hope will seek occasions to shew the World by his own actions, the Noble stock he is descended from.

Cle:

By your permission Madam, I shall set my heart towards my Prince his, and my Countries Service; —I beg imployment Sir, on the next Gallies you send out, lest idlenesse corrupt my busie brain.

Lin:

Mark that Sir, he is allready wavering; Madam take heed, how you take the spirit of uncertainty, (in the habit of a man.)

Pan:

You speak too late, the uncertain man is now my certain fate.

Cle▪

Some diversions are necessary Madam, to look on the same objects ever, dulls, and tyres the best Eyes; but Lindamira can say no∣thing, I dare contradict.

Duke.

You shall command in Chief Clearcus, to shew the World, the vigour you have too long hid.

Lon:

Joyes on joyes, light on Clearcus head.

They embrace.

Cle:

May those joyes be Multiplied on you Sir; my Redeemer, and now become my Prince.

Duk••.

We must conclude this happy day Lindamira, by joyning Silvanders hand with yours, if your mirth will give us leave to be so serious.

Lin:

That is a serious jest Sir, I have long look'd for.

Duk.

Come near Silvander;—which of you two is most pleas'd now?

Both.

I sir.

Duke.

Who spoke first?

Both.

I Sir.

Duke.

This is a good Omen to a joyfull life; may you be both as happy, as ever love made any.

Sil:

We are happy to our wish Sir.

Lin:

He speaks for himself Sir, on hopes of more then he may find.

Duke.

Wee'l Celebrate these Weddings suddainly, and see that Lin∣damira's praise be in loud Hymenealls Sung through all the City, to in∣courage the like Virtuous, and Noble undertakings.

Lin:

I thank your Highnesse for your good opinion, but shall love you for this gift of my Silvander, above all your other favours; Now Silvander,

Let us dwell Arme in Arme, and dayly show Our loves increase, that all the World may know Our hearts; Now the Fair Princess does confesse, That Wedlock may afford true Happinesse.