Alphonsus, King of Aragon

THE COMICALL HISTORIE OF Alphonsus , King of Aragon . As it hath bene sundrie times Acted . Made by R. G.

LONDON Brinted by Thomas Creede . 1599 .

The Comicall Historie of Alphonsus , King of Arragon .

Act. I. After you haue sounded thrise , let Venus be let downe from the top of the Stage , and when she is downe , say . POets are scarce when Goddesses themselues Are forst to leaue their high and stately seates Placed on the top of high Olympus Mount , To seeke them out , to pen their Champions praise . The time hath bene when Homers sugred Muse , Did make each Eccho to repeate his verse , That euery coward that durst crack a speare , And Tilt and Turney for his Ladies sake , Was painted out in colours of such price As might become the proudest Potentate . But now a dayes so yrksome Idels slights , And cursed charmes haue witch'd each students mind , That death it is to any of them all , If that their hands to penning you do call : Oh Virgil , Virgil , wert thou now aliue , Whose painfull pen in stout Augustus dayes , Did daigne to let the base and silly flea To scape away without thy praise of her . I do not doubt but long or ere this time , Alphonsus fame vnto the heauen's should clime : Alphonsus fame that man of Ioue his seed , Sprung from the loines of the immortall Gods , Whose sire although he habit on the earth , May claime a portion in the fierie Pole , As well as any one what ere he be . But setting by Alphonsus power diuine , What man aliue or now amongst the ghoasts Could counteruaile his courage and his strength ? But thou art dead , yea Virgil thou art gon : And all his acts drownd in obliuion . And all his acts drownd in obliuion ? No Venus no , though Poets proue vnkind , And loth to stand in penning of his deeds , Yet rather then they shall be cleane forgot , I which was wont to follow Cupids games Will put in vre Mineruaes sacred Art , And this my hand which vsed for to pen The praise of loue , and Cupids peerles power , Will now begin to treat of bloudie Mars , Of doughtie deeds and valiant victories . Enter Melpomine , Clio , Errato , with their sisters , playing all vpon sundrie Instruments , Calliope onely excepted , who comming last , hangeth downe the head , and plaies not of her Instrument . But see whereas the stately Muses come , Whose harmony doth very far surpasse The heauenly musick of Appolloes pipe . But what meanes this Melpomine her selfe With all her sisters sound their Instruments , Onely excepted faire Calliope ? Who comming last & hanging downe her head , Doth plainly shewe by outward actions What secret sorrow doth torment her heart . Stands a side . Mel. Calliope thou which so oft didst crake , How that such clients clustred to thy Court By thick and threefold , as not any any one Of all thy sisters might compare with thee : Where be thy schollers now become I troe ? Where are they vanisht in such suddain sort , That while as we do play vpon our strings , You stand still lazing , and haue nought to do ? Clio. Melpomine make you a why of that ? I know full oft you haue Authors red , The higher tree the sooner is his fall , And they which first do flourish and beare sway , Vpon the sudden vanish cleane away . Cal. Mocke on apace , my backe is broad enough To beare your flouts as many as they be . That yeare is rare , that nere feeles winters stormes : That tree is fertile which nere wanteth frute . And that same Muse hath heaped well in store : Which neuer wanteth clients at her doore . But yet my sisters , when the surgent seas Haue ebde their fill , their waues do rise againe And fill their bankes vp to the very brimmes : And when my pipe hath easd her selfe a while , Such store of suters shall my seate frequent , That you shall see my schollers be not spent . Errato . Spent ( quoth you ) sister , then we were too blame If we should say your schollers all were spent : But pray now tell me when your painfull pen will rest enough ? Mel. When husbandmen sheere hogs . Ven. Melpomine , Errato and the rest , From thickest shrubs dame Venus did espie The mortall hatred which you ioyntly beare Vnto your sister high Calliope . What do you thinke if that the tree do bend , It followes therefore that it needs must breakes And since her pipe a litle while doth rest , It neuer shall be able for to sound ? Yes Muses yes , if that she wil vouchsafe To entertain Dame Venus in her schoole , And further me with her instructions , She shall haue schollers which wil daine to be In any other Muses companie . Calliope . Most sacred Venus do you doubt of that ? Calliope would thinke her three times blest , For to receiue a Goddes in her schoole , Especially so high an one as you , Which rules the earth , and guides the heauens too . Ven. Then sound your pipes , and let vs bend our steps Vnto the top of high Pernassus hill , And there togither do our best deuoyr For to describe Alphonsus warlike fame : And in the maner of a Comedie , Set downe his noble valour presently . Calli. As Venus wils , so bids Calliope . Melpo. And as you bid your sisters do agree . Exeunt . Enter Clarinus the Father , and Alphonsus his sonne . Carinus . My noble sonne , since first I did recount The noble acts your predecessors did In Aragon , against their warlike foes , I neuer yet could see thee ioy at all , But hanging downe thy head as malcontent : Thy youthfull dayes in mourning haue bene spent . Tell me Alphonsus what might be the cause That makes thee thus to pine away with care ? Hath old Carinus done thee any offence In reckning vp these stories vnto thee ? What nere a word but mumme ? Alphonsus speake , Vnles your Fathers fatall day you seeke . Alphon. Although deare father I haue often vowde Nere to vnfold the secrets of my heart To any man or woman , who some ere Dwels vnderneath the circle of the skie : Yet do your words so coniure me deare sire , That needs I must fulfil that you require . Then so it is , amongst the famous tales Which you rehearst done by our sires in warre , When as you came vnto your fathers daies , With sobbing notes , with sighs & blubbring teares , And much ado , at length you thus began . Next to Alphonsus should my father come , For to possesse the Diadem by right Of Aragon , but that the wicked wretch His yonger brother , with aspiring mind , By secret treason robd him of his life , And me his sonne , of that which was my due . These words my sire , did so torment my mind , As had I bene with Ixion in hell , The rauening bird could neuer plague me worse : For euer since my mind hath troubled bene Which way I might reuenge this traiterous fact , And that recouer which is ours by right . Cari. Ah my Alphònsus neuer thinke on that , In vaine it is to striue against the streame , The Crowne is lost , and now in hucksters hands , And all our hope is cast into the dust : Bridle these thoughts , and learne the same of me , A quiet life doth passe an Emperie . Alphon. Yet noble father , ere Carinus brood Shall brooke his foe for to vsurpe his seate , Hee le die the death with honour in the field , And so his life and sorrowes briefly end . But did I know my froward fate were such , As I should faile in this my iust attempt : This sword deare father should the Author be , To make an end of this my Tragedie . Therefore sweet sire , remaine you here a while , And let me walke my Fortune for to trie : I do not doubt but ere the time be long , I le quite his cost , or else my selfe will die . Cari. My noble sonne , since that thy mind is such For to reuenge thy fathers foule abuse , As that my words may not a whit preuaile To stay thy iourney , go with happie fate , And soone returne vnto thy fathers Cell , With such a traine as Iulius Cesar came To noble Rome , when as he had atchiu'd The mightie Monarch of the triple world , Meane time Carinus in this sillie groue , Will spend his daies with praier and horizons , To mightie Ioue , to further thine intent : Farewell deare sonne Alphonsus fare you well . Exit . Alphon. And is he gone ? then hie Alphonsus hie , To trie thy fortune where thy fates do call : A noble mind disdaines to hide his head , And let his foes triumph in his ouerthrow . Enter Albinius . Alphonsus makes as though thou goest out , Albinius Albi. What loytring follow haue we spied here ? Presume not villaine further her for to go , Vnles you do at length the same repent . Alphonsus comes towards Albinius . Alphon. Villain saist thou , nay vilain in thy throat : What knowst thou skipnick whom thou vilain calst ? Albi. A common vassall I do villaine call . Alphon. That shalt thou soone approoue perswade thy self , Or else I le die , or thou shalt die for me . Albi. What do I dreame , or do my dazeling eies Deceiue me ? I st Alphonsus that I see ? Doth now Medea vse her wonted charmes For to delude Albinius fantasie ? Or doth black Pluto king of darke Auerne , Seeke to flout me with his counterfait ? His bodie like to Alphonsus framed is : His face resembles much Alphonsus hewe : His noble mind declares him for no les . T is he indeed , wo worth Albinius , Whose babling tong hath causde his owne annoy . Why doth not Ioue send from the glittring skies His Thunder bolts to chastice this offence ? Why doth dame Terra cease with greedie iawes To swallow vp Albinius presently ? What shall I flie and hide my trayterous head , From stout Alphonsus whom I so misusde ? Or shall I yield Tush yeelding is in vaine : Nor can I flie , but he will follow me . Then cast thy selfe downe at his graces feete , Confesse thy fault , and readie make thy brest , To entertaine thy well deserued death . Albinius kneels downe . Alph. What newes my friend ? why are you so blanke That earst before did vaunt it to the skies ? Albi. Pardon deare Lord , Albinius pardon craues For this offence , which by the heauen I vowe , Vnwittingly I did vnto your grace . For had I knowne Alphonsus had bene here , Ere that my tongue had spoke so trayterously , This hand should make my very soule to die . Alphon. Rise vp my friend , thy pardon soon is got But prithi tell me what the cause might be ; That in such sort thou erst vpbraidedst me ? Albinius ryses vp . Haue compassed the circle of the skie , I le clog their toongs , since nothing else will serue To keep those vilde and threatning speeches in . Farwell Belinus , loke thou to thy selfe : Alphonsus meanes to haue thy Crowne ere night . Exit Alphonsus . Beli. What is he gone , the diuel break his necke , The fiends of hell torment his traiterous corpes : Is this the quittance of Belinus grace , Which he did shewe vnto that thankles wretch ? That runnagate , that rachell , yea that theefe , For well I wot he hath robd me of a Crowne . If euer he had sprung from gentle blood , He would not thus misuse his fauourer . Albi. That runnagate , that rachel , yea that theef ? Stay their sir King , your mouth runnes ouer much , It ill becomes the subiect for to vse Such trayterous termes against his soueraigne . Know thou Belinus , that Carinus sonne , Is neither rachel nor runnagate , But be thou sure , that ere the darksome night Do driue God Phaebus to his Thetis lap , Both thou and all the rest of this thy traine , Shall well repent the words which you haue saine . Beli. What traiterous villain dost thou threaten me ? Lay hold on him , and see he do not scape , I le teach the slaue to know to whom he speakes . To thee I speake , and to thy fellowes all : And though as now you haue me in your power , Yet doubt I not but that in litle space , These eyes shall see thy treason recompenst : And then I meane to vaunt of our victorie . Beli. Nay proud Albinius , neuer build on that , For though the Gods do chance for to appoynt Alphonsus victor of Belinus land , Yet shalt thou neuer liue to see that day , And therefore Fabius stand not lingring , But presently slash off his trayterous head . Albi. Slash off his head , as though Albinius head Were then so easie to be slashed off . In faith sir no , when you are gone and dead , I hope to flourish like the pleasant spring . Beli. Why how now Fabius , what do you stand in doubt , To do the deed ? what feare you ? who dares seeke For to reuenge his death on thee againe , Since that Belinus did commaund it so ? Or are you waxt so daintie , that you dare Not vse your sword for staining of your hands ? If it be so , then let me see thy sword , And I will be his butcher for this time . Fabius giue Belinus thy sword drawne , Belinus say as followeth . Now sir Albinius , are you of the minde That erst you were ? what do you looke to see And triumph in Belinus ouerthrow ? I hope the very sight of this my blade , Hath chaungde your minde into an other tune . Albi. Not so Belinus , I am constant still , My minde is like to the Abeston stone , Which if it once be heat in flames of fire , Deineth to becommen colde againe . Euen so am I , and shall be till I die , And though I should see Attropos appeare , With knife in hand , to slit my threed in twaine , Yet nere Albinius should perswaded be , But that Belinus he should vanquisht see . Beli. Nay then Albinius , since that words are vaine For to perswade you from this heresie : The sword shall sure put you out of doubt . Belinus offers to strike off Albinius head strike vp alarum , ener Alphonsus and his men , flie Belinus and Fabius , follow Alphonsus , and Albinius . Enter Laelius , Milos , and his seruants . Laeli. My noble Lords of Aragon , I know You wonder much what might the occasion be , That Laelius which earst did flie the field , Doth egge you forwards now vnto the warres , But when you heare my reason , out of doubt Yow le be content with this my rash attempt . When first our King , Flaminius I do meane , Did set vpon the Neapolitans , The worst of you did know and plainly see , How farre they were vnable to withstand The mightie forces of our royall Campe , Vntill such time as froward fates we thought , Although the fates ordaind it for our gaine , Did send a straunger stout , whose sturdie blowes And force alone , did cause our ouerthrow . But to our purpose , this same martiall knight Did hap to hit vpon Flaminius , And lent our King then such a friendly blow , As that his gasping ghost to Lymbo went : Which when I sawe , and seeking to reuenge , My noble Lords , did hap on such a prize : As neuer King nor Keisar got the like . Mi. Laelius , of force we must confesse to thee , We wondred all , when as you did perswade Vs to returne vnto the warres againe , But since our maruell is increased much By these your words , which sound of happinesse , Therefore good Laelius make no tarrying , But soone vnfolde thy happie chaunce to vs . Lae. Then friends and fellow souldiers , hark to me . When Laelius thought for to reuenge his king , On that same knight , in steed of mortall foe , I found him for to be our cheefest friend . Mi. Our cheefest friend , I hardly can beleeue , That he which made such bloudie massacres Of stout Italians , can in any poynt Beare friendship to the countrey or the King . Lae. As for your king Miles , I hold with you , He beare no friendship to Flaminius , But hated him as bloudie Attropos , But for your countrey , Laelius doth auowe , He loues as well as any other land : Yea sure he loues it best of all the world : And for because , you shall not thinke that I Do say the same without a reason why , Know that the knight Alphonsus hath to name , Both sonne and heire to olde Carinus , whom Flaminius sire bereaued of his Crowne : Who did not seeke the ruine of our host , For any enuie he did beare to vs , But to reuenge him on his mortall foe , Which by the helpe of high celestiall Ioue , He hath atchieu'd with honour in the field . Mi. Alphonsus man , I le nere perswaded be , That ere Alphonsus may suruiue againe , Who with Carinus many yeares agoe , Was said to wander in the stigian fieldes . Laeli. Truth Noble Miles , these mine eares haue heard , For certaintie reported vnto me , That olde Carinus with his peerlesse sonne , Had felt the sharpnesse of the sisters sheeres , And had I not of late Alphonsus seene In good estate , though all the world should say He is aliue , I would not credit them : But fellow souldiers wend you backe with me , And let vs lurke within the secret shade , Which he himselfe appointed vnto vs : And if you find my words to be vntroth , Then let me die to recompence the wrong . Strike vp alarum , Enter Albinius with his sword drawne , and say . Albi. Laelius make haste , souldiers of Aragon , Set lingring by , and come and helpe your King . I meane Alphonsus , who whilest that he did Pursue Belinus at the very heeles , Was suddenly enuironed about , With all the troupes of mightie Millain land . Mi. What newes is this , and is it very so ? Is our Alphonsus yet in humane state , Whom all the world did iudge for to be dead . Yet can I scarce giue credit to the same . Giue credit , yes , and since the Millain Duke , Hath broke his league of friendship , be he sure , Ere Cynthia , the shining lampe of night , Doth scale the heauens with her horned head , Both he and his shall very plainly see , The league is burst , that caused long the glee . Lae. And could the traytor harbor in his brest Such mortall treason gainst his soueraigne , As when he should with fire and sword defend Him from his foes , he seekes his ouerthrow ? March on my friends , I nere shall ioy at all , Vntill I see that bloudie traytors fall . Exeunt . Strike vp alarum , flie Belinus , follow Laelius : flie Fabius , follow Albinius : flie the Duke of Millaine , follow Miles .

Act. 3. Strike vp alarum , Enter Venus . NO sooner did Alphonsus with his troupe , Set on the souldiers of Belinus band , But that the furie of his sturdie blowes , Did strike such terror to their daunted mindes , That glad was he which could escape away , With life and limme , forth of that bloudie fray . Belinus flies vnto the Turkish soyle , To craue the aide of Amuracke their King : Vnto the which he willingly did consent , And sends Belinus with two other Kings , To know god Mahomets pleasure in the same : Meane time the Empresse by Medeas helpe , Did vse such charmes , that Amuracke did see In soundest sleepe , what afterward should hap : How Amuracke did recompence her paine , With mickle more , this Act shall shew you plaine . Exit Venus . Enter one , carrying two Crownes vpon a Crest , Alphonsus , Albinius , Laelius and Miles , with their souldiers . Alph. Welcome braue youthes of Aragon to me . Yea welcome Miles , Lalius and the rest , Whose prowesse alone hath bene the onely cause , That we like victors haue subdued our foes . Lord what a pleasure was it to my minde , To see Belus , which not long before , Did with his threatnings terrefie the Gods , Now scudde apace , from warlike Lalius blowes : The Duke of Millaine he increast our sport , When doubting that his force was ouerweake , For to withstand Miles , thy sturdie arme Did giue more credence to his frisking skippes Then to the sharpnesse of his cutting blade , What Fabius did to pleasure vs withall , Albinius knowes as well as I my selfe : For well I wot , if that thy tyred steed Had bene as fresh and swift in foote as his , He should haue felt , yea knowne for certaintie , To checke Alphonsus , did deserue to die . Breefly my friends and fellow peeres in armes , The worst of you doo deserue such mickle praise , As that my tongue denies for to set forth The demie parcell of your valiant deeds , So that perforce , I must by dutie be Bound to you all , for this your curtesie . Mi. Not so my Lord , for if our willing armes Haue pleasured you so much , as you do say , We haue done nought but that becommeth vs : For to defend our mightie soueraigne . As for my part , I count my labour small , Yea though it had bene twise as much againe , Since that Alphonsus doth accept thereof . Alphon. Thankes worthie Miles , least all the world Should count Alphonsus thanklesse for to be , Laelius sit downe , and Miles sit by him , And that receiue , the which your swords haue wonne . Sit downe Laelius and Miles . First , for because thou Laelius in these broyles , By martiall might , didst proude Belinus chase , From troupe to troupe , from side to side about , And neuer ceast from this thy swift pursute , Vntill thou hadst obtaind his royall Crowne , Therefore I say , I le do thee nought but right , And giue thee that which thou well hast wonne . Set the Crowne on his head . Here doth Alphonsus Crowne thee Laelius , King Of Naples Towne , with all dominions That earst belonged to our trayterous foe , That proud Belinus in his regiment . Sound Trumpets and Drummes . Miles , thy share the Millaine Dukedome is , For well I wot thy sword deseru'd no lesse . Set the Crowne on his head . The which Alphonsus frankly giueth thee , In presence of his warlike men at armes . And if that any stomacke this my deed , Alphonsus can reuenge thy wrong with speed . Sound Trumpets and Drummes . Now to Albinius which in all my toyles I haue both faithfull , yea and friendly found : Since that the Gods and friendly Fates assigne This present time to me to recompence , The sundry pleasures thou hast done to me , Sit downe by them , and on thy faithfull head Take the Crowne from thy owne head . Receiue the Crowne of peerlesse Aragon . Albi. Pardon deare Lord Albinius at this time , It ill becomes me for to weare a Crowne , When as my Lord is destitute himselfe : Why high Alphonsus , if I should receiue This Crowne of you , the which high Ioue forbid , Where would your selfe obtaine a Diadem ? Naples is gone , Millaine possessed is , And nought is left for you but Aragon . Alphon. And nought is left for me but Aragon ? Yes surely yes , my Fates haue so decreed , That Aragon should be too base a thing , For to obtaine Alphonsus for her King . What heare you not how that our scattered foes , Belinus , Fabius , and the Millaine Duke , Are fled for succour to the Turkish Court ? And thinke you not that Amurack their King , Will with the mightiest power of all his land , Seeke to reuenge Belinus ouerthrow ? Then doubt I not but ere these broyles do end , Alphonsus shall possesse the Diadem That Amurack now weares vpon his head . Sit downe therefore and that receiue of mee : The which the Fates appointed vnto thee . Albi. Thou king of heauen , which by thy power diuine , Dost see the secrets of each liuers heart , Beare record now with what vnwilling mind , I do receiue the Crowne of Aragon . Albinius sit downe by Laelius & Miles , Alphonsus set the Crowne on his head , and say . Alphon. A rise Albinius King of Aragon , Crowned by me , who till my gasping ghost Do part asunder from my breathlesse corpes , Will be thy shield against all men aliue : That for thy kingdome any way do striue . Sound Trumpets and Drummes . Now since we haue in such an happie houre Confirmd three kings , come let vs march with speed Into the Citie , for to celebrate With mirth and ioy , this blisfull festiuall . Exeunt omnes . Enter Amurack the great Turke , Belinus , Fabius , Arcastus King of Moores . Claramount , King of Barbery . Baiazet a Lord , with their train . Amu. Welcome Belinus to thy cosens Court , Whose late arriuall in such posting pace , Doth bring both ioy and sorrow to vs all : Sorrow because the Fates haue bene so false , To let Alphonsus driue thee from thy land : And ioy , since that now mightie Mahomet Hath giuen me cause to recompence at full , The sundry pleasures I receiu'd of thee . Therefore Belinus do but aske and haue : For Amurack doth grant what ere you craue . Beli. Thou second sun which with thy glimsing beames Doest clarifie each corner of the earth , Belinus comes not , as earst Mydas did , To mightie Bacchus , to desire of him , That what so ere at any time he toucht , Might turned be to gold incontinent . Nor do I come as Iuppiter did erst Vnto the Pallace of Amphitrion , For any fond or foule concupiscence , Which I do beare to Alcumenaes hew . But as poore Saturne , forst by mightie Ioue To flie his Countrey , banisht and forlorne , Did craue the aide of Troos , King of Troy . So comes Belinus to high Amurack . And if he can but once your aide obtaine , He turnes with speed to Naples backe againe . Amu. My aide Belinus , do you doubt of that ? If all the men at armes of Affrica , Of Asia likewise , will sufficient be , To presse the pompe of that vsurping mate : Assure thy selfe , thy kingdome shal be thine , If Mahomet say I vnto the same : For were I sure to vanquish all our foes , And find such spoiles in ransacking their Tents , As neuer any Keisar did obtaine , Yet would I not set foote forth of this land : If Mahomet our iourney did withstand . Beli. Nor would Belinus for King Craesus trash , Wish Amurack to displease the Gods ; In pleasuring me in such à trifling toy . Then mightie Monarch , if it be thy will , Get their consents , and then the act fulfill . Amu. You counsel well , therefore Belinus haste , And Claramount go beare him companie , With King Arcastus , to the Citie walles . Then bend with speed vnto the darksome groue , Where Mahomet this many a hundred yeare Hath prophesied vnto our auncesters , Tell to his Priests , that Amurack your King Is now selecting all his men at armes , To set vpon that proud Alphonsus troupe . The cause you know , and can enforme him well , That makes me take these bloudie broyles in hand : And say that I desire their sacred God , That Mahomet which ruleth all the skies , To send me word and that most speedely , Which of vs shall obtaine the victory . Exeunt omnes , preter Baiazet and Amurack . You Baiazet go poste away apace , To Siria , Scythia , and Albania , To Babylon , with Mesopotamia , Asia , Armenia , and all other lands Which owe their homage to high Amurack . Charge all their Kings with expedition To gather vp the choesest men at armes Which now remaine in their dominions , And on the twentie day of the same month , To come and wait on Amurack their King , At his chiefe Citie Constantinople . Tell them moreouer , that who so doth faile , Nought else but death , from prison shall him baile . Exit Baiazet . Assoone as he is gone , sound musicke within . What heauenly Musicke soundeth in my eare ? Peace Amurack and hearken to the same . Sound musicke , hearken Amurack , and fall a sleepe . Enter Medea , Fausta the Empresse , Iphigina her daughter . Medea . Now haue our charmes fulfild our minds full well , High Amurack is lulled fast a sleepe , And doubt I not , but ere he wakes againe , You shall perceiue Medea did not gibe , When as she put this practise in your mind : Sit worthie Fausta at thy spowse his feete . Fausta and Iphigina , sit downe at Amuracks feete . Iphigina , sit thou on the other side : What ere you see be not agast thereat , But beare in mind what Amurack doth chat . Medea do ceremonies belonging to coniuring , and say . Thou which wert wont in Agamemnons dayes To vtter forth Apolloes Oracles At sacred Delphos , Calchas I do meane , I charge thee come , all lingring set aside , Vnles the pennance you thereof abide . I coniure thee by Plutoes loathsome lake , By all the hags which harbour in the same , By stinking Stix , and filthie Flegeton , To come with speed , and truly to fulfill That which Medea to thee streight shall will . Rise Calehas vp in a white Cirples and a Cardinals Myter , and say . Cal. Thou wretched witch , when wilt thou make an end Of troubling vs with these thy cursed Charmes ? What meanst thou thus to call me from my graue ? Shall nere my ghost obtaine his quiet rest ? Me. Yes Calchas yes , your rest doth now approch Medea meanes to trouble thee no more , When as thou hast fulfild her mind this once . Go get thee hence to Pluto backe againe , And there enquire of the Destinies , How Amurack shall speed in these his warres : Peruse their bookes , and marke what is decreed By Ioue himselfe , and all his fellow Gods : And when thou knowst the certaintie thereof , By fleshlesse visions shewe it presently To Amuracke , in paine of penaltie . Cal. Forst by thy charme though with vnwilling minde : I hast to hell , the certaintie to finde . Calchas sinke downe where you came vp . Me. Now peerles Princes I must needs be gon , My hastie businesse calls me from this place . There resteth nought , but that you beare in minde , What Amuracke in this his fit doth say . For marke what dreaming madam he doth prate : Assure your selfe , that that shal be his fate . Fau. Though very loth to let thee so depart , Farewell Medea , easer of my hart . Exit Medea . Sound Instruments within , Amurack as it were in a dreame , say . Amu. What Amurack doest thou begin to nod ? Is this the care that thou hast of thy warres ? As when thou shouldst be prancing of thy steed , To egge thy souldiers forward in thy warres : Thou sittest moping by the fire side ? See where thy Viceroies grouell on the ground . Looke where Belinus breatheth forth his ghost . Behold by millions how thy men do fall Before Alphonsus like to sillie sheepe . And canst thou stand still lazing in this sort ? No proud Alphonsus , Amurack doth flie To quaile thy courage , and that speedilie . Sound Instruments a while within , and then Amuracke say . And doest thou think thou proud iniurious God , Mahound I meane since thy vaine prophesies Led Amurack into this dolefull case , To haue his Princely feete in irons clapt , Which erst the proudest kings were forst to kisse , That thou shalt scape vnpunisht for the same ? No no , assoone as by the helpe of Ioue , I scape this bondage , downe go all thy groues . Thy alters tumble round about the streets . And whereas erst we sacrifisde to thee : Now all the Turks thy mortall foes shall bee . Sound Instruments a while within , Amuracke say . Behold the Iemme and Iewel of mine age , See where she comes , whose heauenly maiestie Doth far surpasse the braue and gorgeous pace Which Cytherea daughter vnto Ioue , Did put in vre when as she had obtaind The golden Apple at the shepheards hands . See worthie Fausta where Alphonsus stands , Whose valiant courage could not daunted be , Brid'ed my thoughts , and pressed downe my rage , In recompence of which my good intent , I haue receiu'd this wofull banishment . Woful said I ? nay happie I did meane , If that be happie , which doth set one free : For by this meanes , I do not doubt ere long , But Fausta shall with ease , reuenge her wrong . Come daughter come , my minde foretelleth me : That Amuracke shall soone requited be . Make as though you were a going out , Medea meete her and say . Me. Fausta , what meanes this sudden flight of yours ? Why do you leaue your husbands princely Court , And all alone passe through these thickest groues , More fit to harbour brutish sauadge beasts , Then to receiue so high a Queene as you ? Although your credit would not stay your steps , From bending them into these darkish dennes , Yet should the daunger which is imminent , To euery one which passeth by these pathes , Keepe you at home with fayre Iphigina . What foolth toy hath tickled you to this ? I greatly feare some hap hath hit amis . Fau. No toy Medea , tickled Faustaes head , Nor foolish fancie ledde me to these groups , But earnest businesse egges my tremb'ing steps , To passe all dangers what so ere they be . I banisht am Medea , I which erst Was Empresse ouer all the triple world , Am banisht now from pallace and from pompe , But if the gods be fauourers to me , Ere twentie dayes , I will reuenged be . Me. I thought as much , when first from thickest leaues , I saw you trudging in such posting pace . But to the purpose , what may be the cause , Of this strange and sudden banishment ? Fau. The cause aske you , a simple cause god wots : T was neither treason , nor yet felonie , But for because I blamde his foolishnes . Me. I heare you say so , but I greatly feare , Ere that your tale be brought vnto an end , You le proue your selfe the author of the same : But pray be briefe , what follie did your spowse ? And how will you reuenge your wrong on him ? Fau. What follie quoth you ? such as neuer yet Was heard or seene , since Phoebus first gan shine , You know how he was gathering in all haste , His men at armes , to set vpon the troupe Of proude Alphonsus , yea you well do know , How you and I did do the best we could , To make him shew vs in his drowsie dreame , What afterward should happen in his warres : Much talke he had , which now I haue forgot . But at the length , this surely was decreed , How that Alphonsus and Iphigina Should be conioynd in Iunoes sacred rites , Which when I heard , as one that did despise , That such a traytor should be sonne to me , I did rebuke my husband Amuracke . And since my words could take no better place , My sword with helpe of all Amazones , Shall make him soone repent his foolishnes . Me. This is the cause then of your banishment , And now you goe vnto Amazone , To gather all your may dens in array , To set vpon the mightie Amuracke ? Oh foolish Queene , what meant you by this talke ? Those pratling speeches haue vndone you all . Do you disdaine to haue that mightie Prince , I meane Alphonsus , counted for your sonne ? I tell you Fausta , he is borne to be , The ruler of a mightie Monarchie : I must confesse the powers of Amuracke Be great , his confines stretch both far and neare , Yet are they not the third part of the lands , Which shall be ruled by Alphonsus hands , And yet you daine to call him sonne in law : But when you see his sharpe and cutting sword Piercing the heart of this your gallant gyrle , You le curse the houre wherein you did denay , To ioyne Alphonsus with Iphigina . Fau. The gods forbid , that ere it happen so . Me. Nay neuer pray , for it must happen so . Fau. And is there then no remedie for it ? Me. No none but one , & that you haue forsworn , Fau. As though an oath can bridle so my minde , As that I dare not breake a thousand oathes , For to eschew the danger imminent . Speake good Medea , tell that way to me , And I will do it , what so ere it be . Me. Then as already you haue well decreed , Packe to your countrey , and in readinesse , Select the armie of Amazones , When you haue done , march with your female troupe To Naples Towne , to succour Amuracke , And so by marriage of Iphigina , You soone shall driue the danger cleane away . Iphigi. So shall we soone eschew Caribdis lake , And headlong fall to Syllaes greedie gulph , I vowd before , and now do vow againe : Before I wedde Alphonsus , I le be slaine . Me. In vaine it is , to striue against the streame , Fates must be followed , and the gods decree Must needs take place in euery kinde of cause . Therfore faire maide , bridle these brutish thoughts , And learne to follow what the fates assigne , When Saturne heard that Iuppiter his sonne Should driue him headlong from his heauenly seat , Downe to the bottome of the darke Auarne , He did command his mother presently , To do to death , the young and guiltlesse childe : But what of that , the mother loathd in heart , For to commit so vile a massacre . Yea Ioue did liue , and as the fates did say , From heauenly seate , draue Saturne cleane away . What did auaile the Castle all of Steele , The which Acrisius caused to be made , To keepe his daughter Danae clogged in ? She was with childe for all her Castles force , And by that child , Acrisius her sire , Was after slaine , so did the fates require . A thousand examples , I could bring hereof . But Marble stones needs no colouring , And that which euery one doth know for truth , Needs no examples to confirme the same . That which the fates appoint must happen so , Though heauenly Ioue , and all the Gods say no . Fau. Iphigina , she sayth nought but truth , Fates must be followed in their iust decrees : And therefore setting all delayes aside , Come let vs wend vnto Amazone , And gather vp our forces out of hand . Iphi. Since Fausta wils , and fates do so command , Iphigina will neuer it withstand . Exeunt omnes .

Act. 3. Enter Venus . THus haue you seene , how Amuracke himselfe , Fausta his wife , and euery other King , Which holds their scepters at the Turke his hands , Are now in armes , entending to destroy And bring to nought , the Prince of Aragon . Charmes haue bene vsde by wise Medeas art , To know before what afterward shall hap , And King Belinus with high Claramount , Ioynd to Alphonsus , which with Princely pompe , Doth rule and gouerne all the warlike Moores , Are sent as Legats to god Mahomet , To know his counsell in these high affaires . Mahound prouokte by Amurackes discourse , Which as you heard , he in his dreame did vse , Denies to play the Prophet any more , But by the long intreatie of his Priests , He prophesies in such a craftie sort , As that the hearers needs must laugh for sport . Yet poore Belinus with his fellow Kings , Did giue such credence to that forged tale , As that they lost their dearest liues thereby , And Amuracke became a prisoner Vnto Alphonsus , as straight shall appeare . Exit Venus . Let there be a brazen Head set in the middle of the place behind the Stage , out of the which , cast flames of fire , drums rumble within , Enter two Priests . 1. Pr. My fellow Priests of Mahounds holy house , What can you iudge of these strange miracles , Which daily happen in this sacred seate ? Drums rumble within . Harke what a rumbling ratleth in our cares . Cast flames of fire forth of the brazen Head . See flakes of fire proceeding from the mouth Of Mahomet that God of peereles power . Nor can I tell with all the wit I haue , What Mahomet by these his signes doth craue . 2. Pr. Thrise ten times Phoebus with his golden beames , Hath compassed the circle of the skie , Thrise ten times Ceres , hath her workemen hir'd , And fild her barnes with frutefull crops of corne , Since first in Priesthood I did lead my life : Yet in this time I neuer heard before , Such feareful sounds , nor saw such wondrous sights , Nor can I tell , with all the wit I haue , What Mahomet by these his signes doth craue . Speake out of the brazen Head . Ma. You cannot tell , nor will you seeke to know , Oh peruerse Priest , how carelesse are you waxt ? As when my foes approach vnto my gates , You stand still talking of I cannot tell : Go packe you hence , and meete the Turkish kings , Which now are drawing to my Temple ward : Tell them from me , God Mahomet is dispos'd To prophesie no more to Amuracke , Since that his tongue is waxen now so free , As that it needs must chat and raile at me . Kneele downe both . 1. Pr. Oh Mahomet , if all the solemne prayers Which from our childhood we haue offered thee , Can make thee call this sentence backe againe , Bring not thy Priest into this dangerous state : For when the Turke doth heare of this repulse , We shall be sure to die the death therefore . Ma. Thou sayest truth , go call the Princes in , I le prophesie vnto them for this once , But in such wise , as they shall neither boast , Nor you be hurt in any kinde of wise . Enter Belinus , Claramont , Arcastus , go both the Priests to meet him : the first say . 1. Pr. You Kings of Turkie , Mahomet our God , By sacred science , hauing notice that You were sent Legats from high Amuracke , Vnto this place , commaunded vs his Priests , That we should cause you make as mickle speed , As well you might , to heare for certaintie , Of that shall happen to your King and ye . Beli. For that intent we came into this place , And sithens that , the mightie Mahomet Is now at leisure for to tell the same , Let vs make haste and take time while we may : For mickle daunger hapneth through delay . 2. Pri. Truth worthy king , and therfore you your selfe , With your companions , kneele before this place , And listen well what Mahomet doth say . Kneele all downe before the brasen Head . Beli. As you do will , we ioyntly will obey . Ma. Princes of Turkie , and Embassadors Of Amuracke , to mightie Mahomet , I needs must muse , that you which erst haue bene The readiest souldiers of the triple world , Are now become so slacke in your affaires , As when you should with bloudie blade in hand , Be hacking he'mes in thickest of your foes , You stand still loytering in the Turkish soyle . What know you not , how that it is decreed , By all the gods , and chiefly by my selfe . That you with triumph should all Crowned bee : Make haste Kings , least when the fates do see , How carlesly you do neglect their words , They call a Counsell , and force Mahomet Against his will some other thing to set . Send Fabius backe to Amuracke againe , To haste him forwards in his enterprise : And march you on with all the troupes you haue , To Naples ward , to conquer Aragon . For if you stay , both you and all your men , Must needs be sent downe straight to Lymbo den . 2. Pri. Muse not braue kings at Mahomets discourse , For marke what he forth of that mouth doth say , Assure your selfe it needs must happen so . Therefore make hast , go mount you on your steeds , And set vpon Alphonsus presently . So shall you reape great honor for your paine : And scape the scourge , which els the Fates ordaine . Rise all vp . Beli. Then proud Alphonsus , looke thou to thy Crowne , Belinus comes in glittring armor clad , All readie prest for to reuenge the wrong Which not long since , you offred vnto him . And since we haue God Mahound on our side : The victorie must needs to vs betide . Cla. Worthie Belinus , set such threats away , And let vs haste as fast as horse can trot , To set vpon presumptuous Aragon . You Fabius , hast as Mahound did commaund , To Amuracke , with all the speed you may . Fabi. With willing mind I hasten on my way . Exit Fabius . Beli. And thinking long till that we be in fight , Belinus hastes to quaile Alphonsus might . Exeunt omnes . Strike vp alarum a while . Enter Carinus . Cari. No sooner had God Phebus brightsome beames Both Millaine land , and all the parts thereof . Cari. Why then I doubt not but you can resolue Me of a question that I shall demaund . Duke . I that I can , what euer that it be . Cari. Then to be briefe , not twentie winters past When these my lims which withered are with age , Were in the prime and spring of all their youth , I still desirous as yoong gallants be , To see the fashions of Arabia , My natiue soyle , and in this pilgrims weed , Began to trauell through vnkenned lands , Much ground I past , and many soyles I saw , But when my feete in Millain land I set , Such sumptuous triumphs daily there I saw , As neuer in my life I found the like . I pray good sir , what might the occasion bee : That made the Millains make such mirth and glee ? Duk. This solemne ioy wherof you now do speak , Was not solemnized my friend in vaine . For at that time there came into the land , The happiest tidings that they ere did heare . For newes was brought vpon that solemne day , Vnto our Court , that Ferdinandus proud Was slaine himselfe , Carinus and his sonne Were banisht both for euer from Aragon : And for these happie newes that ioy was made . Cari. But what I pray did afterward become , Of old Carinus with his banisht sonne ? What heare you nothing of them all this while ? Du. Yes too too much , the Millain Duke may say . Alphonsus first by secret meanes did get To be a souldier in Belinus warres : Wherein he did behaue himselfe so well , As that he got the Crowne of Aragon . Which being got , he dispossest also , The King Belinus which had fostered him : As for Carinus he is dead and gone , I would his sonne were his companion . Cari. A blister build vpon that traytors tongue , But for thy friendship which thou shewedst me , Take that of me , I frankly giue it thee . Stab him . Now will I haste to Naples with all speed , To see if Fortune will so fauour me , To view Alphonsus in his happie state . Exit Carinus . Enter Amuracke , Crocon King of Arabia , Faustus , King of Babilon , Fabius , with the Turkes Ganesaries . Amu. Fabius come hither , what is that thou sayest ? What did god Mahound prophecie to vs ? Why do our Viceroyes wend vnto the warres , Before their king had notice of the same ? What do they thinke to play bob foole with me ? Or are they waxt so frolicke now of late , Since that they had the leading of our bands , As that they thinke that mightie Amuracke Dares do no other then to soothe them vp ? Why speakest thou not ? what fond or franticke fit Did make those carelesse Kings to venture it ? Fa. Pardon deare Lord , no franticke fit at all , No frolicke vaine , nor no presumptuous mind , Did make your Viceroies take these wars in hand . But forst they were by Mahounds prophecie , To do the same , or else resolue to die . Amu. So sir , I heare you , but can scare beleeue That Mahomet would charge them go before Against Alphonsus with so small a troupe , Whose number farre exceeds king Xerxes troupe , Fa. Yes Noble Lord , and more then that hee said , That ere that you with these your warlike men , Should come to bring your succour to the field : Belinus , Claramount , and Arcastus too , Should al be crownd with crownes of beaten gold , And borne with triumphes round about their tents . Amu. With triumph man , did Mahound tell them so : Prouost go carrie Fabius presently , Vnto the Marshalsie , there let him rest , Clapt sure and safe in fetters all of steele , Till Amuracke discharge him from the same . For be he sure , vnles it happen so As he did say , Mahound did prophesie , By this my hand , forthwith the slaue shall die . Lay hold of Fabius , and make as though you carrie him out , Enter a souldier and say . Mess. Stay Prouost stay , let Fabius alone , More fitteth now , that euery lustie lad Be buckling on his helmet , then to stand In carrying souldiers to the Marshalsie . Amu. Why what art thou , That darest once presume , For to gainsay that Amuracke did bid ? Messen. I am my Lord , The wretcheds man aliue : Borne vnderneath the Planet of mishap : Erewhile , a souldier of Belinus band But now . Amu. What now ? Mess. The mirror of mishap : Whose Captaine is slaine , and all his armie dead : Onely excepted me vnhappie wretch . Amu. What newes is this , and is Belinus Slaine ? Is this the Crowne which Mahomet did say , He should with triumph weare vpon his head ? Is this the honour which that cursed god Did prophesie , should hapen to them all ? Oh Dadalus , and wert thou now aliue , To fasten wings vpon high Amuracke , Mahound should know , and that for certaintie , That turkish Kings can brooke no iniurie . Fabi. Tush tush my Lord , I wonder what you meane , Thus to exclaime against high Mahomet : I le lay my life , that ere this day be past , You shall perceiue , his tidings all be waste . Amu. We shall perceiue , accursed Fabius , Suffice it not that thou hast bene the man , That first didst beate those bables in my braine , But that to helpe me forward in my greefe , Thou seekest to confirme so fowle a lie . Stab him . Go get thee hence , and tell thy trayterous King What gift you had , which did such tidings bring . And now my Lords , since nothing else will serue , Buckle your helmes , clap on your steeled coates , Mount on your steeds , take Launces in your hands , For Amuracke doth meane this very day , Proude Mahomet with weapons to assay . Messen. Mercie high Monarch , t is no time now To spend the day in such vaine threatnings , Against our god , the mightie Mahomet : More fitteth thee to place thy men at armes In battle ray , for to withstand your foes , Which now are drawing towards you with speed . Sound drummes within . Hark how their drummes with dub a dub do come , To armes high Lord , and set these trifles by : That you may set vpon them valiantly . Amu. And do they come you kings of Turkie ? Now is the time , in which your warlike armes Must raise your names aboue the starrie skies : Call to your minde your predecessors acts , Whose martiall might , this many a hundred yeare , Did keepe those fearefull dogs in dread and awe , And let your weapons shew Alphonsus plaine , That though that they be clapped vp in clay , Yet there be branches sprung vp from those trees , In Turkish land , which brooke no iniuries . Besides the same , remember with your selues , What foes we haue , not mightie Tamberlaine , Nor souldiers trained vp amongst the warres , But fearefull bodies , pickt from their rurall flocke , Which till this time were wholy ignorant What weapons ment , or bloudie Mars doth craue . More would I say , but horses that be free , Do need no spurs and souldiers which themselues Long and desire to buckle with the foe , Do need no words to egge them to the same . Enter Alphonsus , with a Canapie carried ouer him by three Lords , hauing ouer each corner a Kings head , crowned with him , Albinius , Laelius , Miles , with Crownes on their heads , and their souldiers . Besides the same , behold whereas our foes Are marching towards vs most speedilie . Courage my Lords , ours is the victorie . Alph. Thou Pagan dog how darst thou be so bold To set thy foote within Alphonsus land ? What art thou come to view thy wretched kings , Whose traiterous heads bedeckt my tents so well ? Or else thou hearing that on top thereof , There is a place left vacant , art thou come To haue thy head possesse the highest seate ? If it be so , lie downe , and this my sword Shall presently that honor thee affoord . If not , pack hence , or by the heauens I vow , Both thou and thine shall verie soone perceiue , That he that seekes to moue my patience , Must yeeld his life to thee for recompence . Amu. Why proud Alphonsus , thinkst thou Amurack Whose mightie force doth terrefie the Gods , Can ere be found to turne his heeles and flie Away for feare , from such a boy as thou ? No no , although that Mars this mickle while Hath fortified thy weake and feeble arme , And Fortune oft hath viewd with friendly face , Thy armies marching victors from the field , Yet at the presence of high Amuracke , Fortune shall change , and Mars that God of might Shall succour me , and leaue Alphonsus quight . Alphon. Pagan I say , thou greatly art deceiu'd , I clap vp Fortune in a cage of gold , To make her turne her wheele as I thinke best . And as for Mars whom you do say will change , He moping sits behind the kitchin doore , Prest at commaund of euery Skullians mouth Who dares not stir , nor once to moue a whit For feare Alphonsus then should stomack it . Amu. Blasphemous dog , I wonder that the earth Doth cease from renting vnderneath thy feete , What froward fortune hapned on your side : I hope your king in safetie doth abide ? Cro. I noble madam , Amurack doth liue : And long I hope he shall enioy his life . But yet I feare , vnles more succour come , We shall both loose our king and soueraigne . Fau. How so king Crocon , dost thou speak in iest ? To proue if Fausta would lament his death ? Or else hath any thing hapt him amis ? Speake quickly Crocon what the cause might be , That thou dost vtter forth these words to me ? Cro. Then worthie Fausta know , that Amuracke Our mightie king , and your approued spowse , Prickt with desire of euerlasting fame , As he was pressing in the thickest rankes Of Aragonians , was with much adoo At length tooke prisoner , by Alphonsus hands . So that vnles you succour soone do bring , You loose your spowse , and we shall want our king . Iphi. Oh haples hap , oh dire and cruell fate ! What iniurie hath Amuracke my sire Done to the Gods , which now I know are wrath ? Although vniustly and without a cause . For well I wot , not any other king Which now doth liue , or since the world begun Did sway a scepter , had a greater care To please the Gods , then mightie Amuracke . And for to quite our fathers great good will , Seeke they thus basely all his fame to spill . Fau. Iphigina , leaue off these wofull tunes , It is not words can cure and ease this wound : But warlike swords , not teares , but sturdie speares : High Amuracke is prisoner to our foes . What then ? thinke you that our Amazones Ioynd with the forces of the Turkish troupe , Are not sufficient for to set him free ? Yes daughter yes , I meane not for to sleepe , Vntill he is free , or we him company keepe . March on my mates . Exeunt omnes . Strike vp alarum , flie Alphonsus , follow Iphigina and say . Iphi. How now Alphonsus , you which neuer yet Could meete your equall in the feates of armes , How haps it now that in such sudden sort You flie the presence of a sillie maide ? What haue you found mine arme of such a force , As that you thinke your bodie ouerweake For to withstand the furie of my blowes ? Or do you else disdaine to fight with me : For staining of your high nobilitie ? Alp. No daintie dame , I wold not haue thee think That euer thou or any other wight , Shall liue to see Alphonsus flie the field From any king or Keisar who some ere , First will I die in thickest of my fo , Before I will disbase mine honour so . Nor do I scorne thou goddes for to staine My prowes with thee , although it be a shame For knights to combat with the female sect . But loue sweete mouse hath so benumbd my wit , That though I would , I must refraine from it . Iphi. I thought as much when first I came to wars , Your noble acts were fitter to be writ Within the Tables of dame Venus sun , Then in God Mars his warlike registers . When as your Lords are hacking helm es abroad , And make their speares to shiuer in the aire , Your mind is busied in fond Cupids toyes . Come on I faith , I le teach you for to know We came to fight , and not to loue I trow . Alph. Nay virgin stay , and if thou wilt vouchsafe To entertaine Alphonsus simple sute , Thou shalt ere long be Monarch of the world : All christned kings , with all your Pagan dogs Shall bend their knees vnto Iphigina . The Indian soyle shal be thine at command , Where euery step thou settest on the ground , Shall be receiued on the golden mines . Rich Pactolus that riuer of account , Which doth descend from top of Tiuole mount , Shall be thine owne , and all the world beside : If you will graunt to be Alphonsus bride . Iphi. Alphonsus bride ? nay villain do not thinke That fame or riches can so rule my thoughts , As for to make me loue and fancie him Whom I do hate , and in such sort despise , As if my death could bring to passe his baine : I would not long from Plutoes port remaine . Alph. Nay then proud pecock since thou art so stout , As that intreatie will not moue thy minde For to consent to be my wedded spowse , Thou shalt in spite of Gods and Fortune too , Serue high . Alphonsus as a concubine . Iphi. I le rather die then euer that shall hap . Alphon. And thou shalt die vnles it come to pas . Alphonsus and Iphigina fight , Iphigina flie , follow Alphonsus . Strike vp alarum . Enter Alphonsus with his rapier , Albinius , Laelius , Miles with their souldiers . Amurack , Fausta , Iphigina , Crocon and Faustus all bounde with their hands behind them , Amuracke looke angerly on Fausta . Enter Medea , and say . Med. Nay Amurack this is no time to iarre , Although thy wife did in her franticke moode Vse speeches which might better haue bene sparde , Yet do thou not iudge the same time to be A season to requite that iniurie : More fitteth thee with all the wit thou hast , To call to mind which way thou maist release Thy selfe , thy wife , and faire Iphigina , Forth of the power of stout Alphonsus hands . For well I wot , since first you breathed breath , You neuer were so nie the snares of death . Now Amurack , your high and kingly seate , Your royall scepter , and your stately Crowne , Your mightie Countrey , and your men at armes , Be conquered all , and can no succour bring . Put then no trust in these same paltrie toyes : But call to mind that thou a prisoner art : Clapt vp in chaines , whose life and deaths depends Vpon the hands of thy most mortall foe . Then take thou heed that what some ere he say , Thou doest not once presume for to gainsay . Amu. Away you foole , thinke you your cursed-charmes Can bridle so the mind of Amuracke , As that he will stand croaching to his foe ? No no , be sure that if that beggers brat Do dare but once to contrary my will , I le make him soone in heart for to repent , That ere such words gainst Amuracke he spent . Med. Then since thou dost disdaine my good aduise , Looke to thy selfe , and if you fare amis Remember that Medea counsell gaue , Which might you safe from all those perils saue . But Fausta you , as well you haue begun , Beware you follow still your friends aduise . If that Alphonsus do desire of thee To haue your daughter for his wedded spowse , Beware you do not once the same gainsay : Vnles with death he do your rashnes pay . Fau. No worthie wight , first Fausta means to die , Before Alphonsus she will contrarie . Med. Why then farwell , but you Iphigina , Beware you do not ouersqueamish wax , When as your mother giueth her consent . Iphi. The Gods forbid that ere I should gainsay That which Medea bids me to obay . Exit Medea . Rise vp Alphonsus out of his chaire , who all this while hath bene talking to Albinius , and say . Al. Now Amurack the proud blasphemous dogs ( For so you termed vs ) which did brall and raile Against God Mars , and fickle Fortunes wheele , Haue got the gole for all your solemne praiers : Your selfe are prisoner , which as then did thinke That all the forces of the triple world , Were insufficient to fulfill the same . How like you this ? is Fortune of such might , Or hath God Mars such force or power diuine , As that he can with all the power he hath , Set thee and thine forth of Alphonsus hands ? I do not thinke but that your hopes so small , As that you would with verie willing mind , Yeeld for my spowse the faire Iphigina , On that condition , that without delay , Fausta and you may scotfree scape away . Amu. What thinkst thou vilain that high Amurack Beares such a minde , as for the feare of death , Hee le yeeld his daughter , yea his onely ioy , Into the hands of such a dunghill Knight ? No traytor no , for as now I lie Clapt vp in Irons , and with bolts of steele : Yet do there lurke within the Turkish soyle , Such troupes of souldiers , that with small ado , Thei le set me scotfree from your men and you . Alp. Villain sayest thou , traitor & dunghil knight , Now by the heauens , since that thou dost denie , For to fulfill that which in gentle wise Alphonsus craues , both thou and all thy traine Shall with your liues requite that iniurie . Albinius lay holde of Amuracke , And carrie him to prison presently , There to remaine vntill I do returne Into my tent , for by high Ioue I vowe , Vnles he waxe more calmer out of hand , His head amongst his fellow Kings shall stand . Albinius carrie Amuracke forth , who as he is a going , must say . Amu. No villaine , thinke not that the feare of death Shall make me calmer while I draw my breath . Alphon. Now Laelius , take you Iphigina , Her mother Fausta , with these other Kings , And put them into prisons seuerally : For Amuracks stout stomacke shall vndo , Both he himselfe and all his other crew . Fausta kneele downe . Fau. Oh sacred Prince , if that the salt-brine teares , Distilling downe poore Faustas withered cheekes , Alphonsus and Albinius go toward Carinus , Alphonsus stand looking on Carinus , Carinus say . Cari. What nere a word Alphonsus , art thou dumb ? Or doth my presence so perturbe thy minde , That for because I come in Pilgrims weed , You thinke each word which you do spend to me A great disgrace vnto your name to be ? Why speakest thou not ? if that my place you craue , I will be gone and you my place shall haue . Alph. Nay father stay , the Gods of heauen forbid , That ere Alphonsus should desire or wish To haue his absence whom he doth account To be the Loadstone of his life . What though the fates and fortune both in one , Haue bene content to call your louing sonne , From beggers state , vnto this princely seate , Should I therefore disdaine my aged sire ? No first both Crowne and life I will detest , Before such venome breed within my brest . What erst I did , the sudden ioy I tooke , To see Carinus in such happie state , Did make me do , and nothing else at all , High Ioue himselfe do I to witnes call . Cari. These words are vaine , I knew as much before : But yet Alphonsus I must wonder needs , That you whose yeares are proue to Cupids snares , Can suffer such a Goddes as this dame , Thus for to shead such store of Christall teares . Beleeue me sonne , although my yeares be spent , Her sighes and sobs in twaine my heart do rent . Alph. Like power deare father had she ouer me , Vntill for loue , I looking to receiue Loue backe againe , not onely was denied , But also taunted in most spightfull sort : Which made me loathe that which I erst did loue , As she her selfe , with all her friends shall proue . Cari. How now Alphonsus , you which haue so long Bene trained vp in bloudie broyles of Mars , What know you not , that Castles are not wonne At first assault , and women are not wooed When first their suters profer loue to them : As for my part , I should account that maide A wanton wench , vnconstant lewde and light , That yeelds the field , before she venture fight . Especially vnto her mortall foe , As you were then vnto Iphigina . But for because I see you fitter are To enter Lists and combat with your foes , Then court faire Ladyes in God Cupids tents , Carinus meanes , your spokesman for to bee , And if that she consent , you shall agree . Alphon. What you commaund , Alphonsus must not flie : Though otherwise perhaps he would denie . Cari. Then daintie damsell stint these trickling teares , Cease sighes and sobs , yea make a merrie cheare , Your pardon is already purchased : So that you be not ouer curious In granting to Alphonsus iust demand . Iphi. Thankes mightie Prince , no curioser I le bee , Then doth become a maide of my degree . Cari. The Gods forbid that ere Carinus tongue Should go about to make a mayd consent Vnto the thing which modestie denies : That which I aske , is neither hurt to thee , Danger to parents , nor disgrace to friends , But good and honest , and will profit bring , To thee and those which leane vnto that thing . And that is this , since first Alphonsus eyes , Did hap to glaunce vpon your heauenly hew , And saw the rare perfection of the same , He hath desired to become your spowse . Now if you will vnto the same agree , I dare assure you , that you shall be free . Iph. Pardon deare Lord , the world goes very hard , When women kinde are forced for to wooe , If that your sonne had loued me so well , Why did he not informe me of the same ? Ca. Why did he not ? what haue you clean forgot What ample profers he did make to you , When hand to hand he did encounter you ? Iphi. No worthy sir , I haue not it forgot , But Cupid cannot enter in the brest , Where Mars before had tooke possession : That was no time to talke of Venus games , When all our fellowes were pressed in the warres . Cari. Well , let that passe , now canst thou be content To loue Alphonsus , and become his spowse ? Iphi. I if the high Alphonsus could vouchsafe To entertaine me as his wedded spowse . Alphon. If that he could ? what dost thou doubt of that Iason did iet when as he had obtaind , The golden fleece by wise Medeas art , The Greekes reioyced when they had subdued The famous bulwarkes of most stately Troy , But all their mirth was nothing in respect Of this my ioy , since that I now haue got , That which I long desired in my heart . Ca. But what sayes Fausta to her daughters choice ? Fau. Fausta doth say , the Gods haue bin her friends To let her liue to see Iphigina Bestowed so vnto her hearts content . Alphon. Thankes mightie Empresse for your gentlenes , And if Alphonsus can at any time With all his power requite this curtesie , You shall perceiue how kindly he doth take Your forwardnesse in this his happie chance . Cari. Albinius go call forth Amuracke , Wee le see what he doth say vnto this match . Exit Albinius , bring forth Amuracke . Most mightie Turke , I with my warlike sonne Alphonsus , loathing that so great a Prince As you should liue in such vnseemly sort , Haue sent for you to profer life or death : Life , if you do consent to our demand , And death if that you dare gainsay the same , Your wife , high Fausta , with Iphigina , Haue giuen consent that this my warlike sonne Should haue your daughter for his bedfellow , Now resteth nought but that you do agree , And so to purchase sure tranquilitie . Amu. Now Amurack aduise thee what thou sayest , Bethinke thee well what answere thou wilt make : Thy life and death dependeth on thy words , If thou denie to be Alphonsus sire , Death is thy share : but if that thou consent , Thy life is sau'd , consent ? nay rather die . Should I consent to giue Iphigina Into the hands of such a beggers brat ? What Amuracke thou dost deceiue thy selfe , Alphonsus is the sonne vnto a King : What then ? the worthy of thy daughters loue She is agreed , and Fausta is content : Then Amuracke will not be discontent . Take Iphigina by the hand , giue her to Alphonsus . Heere braue Alphonsus , take thou at my hand , Iphigina , I giue her vnto thee : And for her dowrie , when her father die , Thou shalt possesse the Turkish Emperie . Take her I say , and liue King Nestors yeeres , So would the Turke and all his Noble Peeres . Alphon. Immortall thanks I giue vnto your grace . Cari. Now worthy Princes , since by helpe of Ioue On either side the wedding is decreed , Come let vs wend to Naples speedily , For to solemnize it with mirth and glee . Amu. As you do will , we ioyntly do agree . Exeunt omnes . Enter Venus with the Muses , and say . Ve. Now worthy Muses with vnwilling mind , Venus is forst to trudge to heauens againe : For luppiter that God of peerles power , Proclaimed hath a solemne festiuall , In honour of dame Danaes luckles death : Vnto the which , in paine of his displeasure He hath inuited all the immortall Gods And Goddesses , so that I must be there , Vnlesse I will his high displeasure beare : You see Alphonsus hath with much ado , At length obtaind fayre Iphigina Of Amuracke her father , for his wife . Who now are going to the Temple wards , For to performe dame Iunoes sacred rites , Where we will leaue them till the feast be done : Which in the heauens by this time is begun , Meane time deare Muses , wander you not farre Foorth of the path of high Pernassus hill : That when I come to finish vp his life , You may be readie for to succour me . Adieu deare dames , farwell Calltope . Exit Venus . Or if you can conueniently , let a chaire come downe from the top of the stage , and draw her vp . Calli. A dieu you sacred Goddes of the skie . Well louing sisters , since that she is gone , Come let vs haste vnto Pernassus hill , As Citherea did lately will . Melpom. Then make you haste her mind for to fulfill . Exeunt omnes , playing on their Instruments .

FINIS .

Machine-generated castlist A02091-alphonsus 25 A02091-amurack 19 A02091-carinus 16 A02091-medea 14 A02091-fausta 13 A02091-iphigena 12 A02091-belinus 11 A02091-albinius 11 A02091-laelius 5 A02091-calchas 5 A02091-milan 5 A02091-messenger 4 A02091-fabius 4 A02091-melpomene 4 A02091-duke 3 A02091-venus 3 A02091-priest_1 3 A02091-priest_2 3 A02091-calliope 3 A02091-mahomet 3 A02091-crocon 2 A02091-errato 1 A02091-claramont 1 A02091-clio 1

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b9cab-003-a-1110 sollow shall be cleane forgot , I which was wont to follow Cupids games Will put in vre Mineruaes sacred b9cab-003-a-1700 vpvpon Errato , with their sisters , playing all vpon a sundrie Instruments , Calliope onely excepted b9cab-004-a-0500 insti●tions in her schoole , And further me with her instructions , She shall haue schollers which wil daine b9cab-004-a-0780 Cal●ope Most sacred Venus do you doubt of that ? Calliope would thinke her three times blest , For b9cab-004-a-2190 war●ke predecessors did In Aragon , against their warlike foes , I neuer yet could see thee ioy at b9cab-004-b-0050 〈◊〉 these stories vnto thee ? What nere a word but mumme ? Alphonsus speake , Vnles your Fathers b9cab-004-b-0060 ●mme stories vnto thee ? What nere a word but mumme ? Alphonsus speake , Vnles your Fathers b9cab-004-b-2410 sttiue neuer thinke on that , In vaine it is to striue against the streame , The Crowne is lost b9cab-004-b-2630 ●to hucksters hands , And all our hope is cast into the dust : Bridle these thoughts , and learne b9cab-004-b-3010 vsu● Carinus brood Shall brooke his foe for to vsurpe his seate , Heele die the death with honour b9cab-005-a-0570 t●e while , And let me walke my Fortune for to trie : I do not doubt but ere the time be long b9cab-005-a-1310 t●ne returne vnto thy fathers Cell , With such a traine as Iulius Cesar came To noble Rome , when b9cab-005-a-1340 C●ar fathers Cell , With such a traine as Iulius Cesar came To noble Rome , when as he had atchiu'd b9cab-005-a-1500 wo●ld atchiu'd The mightie Monarch of the triple world , Meane time Carinus in this sillie groue b9cab-005-a-1590 〈◊〉 , Meane time Carinus in this sillie groue , Will spend his daies with praier and horizons b9cab-005-a-1810 Alphonsu● further thine intent : Farewell deare sonne Alphonsus fare you well . b9cab-005-a-2320 mal● Alphonsus makes as though thou goest out , Albinius b9cab-005-a-2390 Albi●s sa● Alphonsus makes as though thou goest out , Albinius b9cab-005-a-2520 vill●ne loytring follow haue we spied here ? Presume not villaine further her for to go , Vnles you do at b9cab-005-a-2530 〈◊〉 haue we spied here ? Presume not villaine further her for to go , Vnles you do at length the b9cab-005-a-2660 ●pent for to go , Vnles you do at length the same repent . b9cab-005-a-2760 sai●t Villain saist thou , nay vilain in thy throat : What knowst b9cab-005-a-2880 skip●ck nay vilain in thy throat : What knowst thou skipnick whom thou vilain calst ? b9cab-005-a-3000 〈◊〉 A common vassall I do villaine call . b9cab-005-b-0390 Alpho●sus , or do my dazeling eies Deceiue me ? Ist Alphonsus that I see ? Doth now Medea vse her wonted b9cab-005-b-0690 m● Pluto king of darke Auerne , Seeke to flout me with his counterfait ? His bodie like to b9cab-005-b-1670 ●eld Alphonsus whom I so misusde ? Or shall I yield Tush yeelding is in vaine : Nor can I flie b9cab-005-b-1860 ●ast can I flie , but he will follow me . Then cast thy selfe downe at his graces seete , Confesse b9cab-005-b-1920 seete . Then cast thy selfe downe at his graces feete , Confesse thy fault , and readie make thy b9cab-005-b-2120 knee●s Albinius kneels downe . b9cab-005-b-2130 do●ne Albinius kneels downe . b9cab-005-b-2310 vau● why are you so blanke That earst before did vaunt it to the skies ? b9cab-005-b-2530 heaue● pardon craues For this offence , which by the heauen I vowe , Vnwittingly I did vnto your grace b9cab-005-b-2880 ●uie trayterously , This hand should make my very soule to die . b9cab-005-b-2900 ●ie , This hand should make my very soule to die . b9cab-005-b-2970 f●end Rise vp my friend , thy pardon soon is got But prithi tell b9cab-005-b-3030 go● Rise vp my friend , thy pardon soon is got But prithi tell me what the cause might b9cab-005-b-3050 prithi●●ll vp my friend , thy pardon soon is got But prithi tell me what the cause might be ; That in b9cab-005-b-3100 ●auie pardon soon is got But prithi tell me what the cause might be ; That in such sort thou erst vpbraidedst b9cab-005-b-3120 be● got But prithi tell me what the cause might be; ; That in such sort thou erst vpbraidedst b9cab-005-b-3170 s●t me what the cause might be ; That in such sort thou erst vpbraidedst me ? b9cab-005-b-3190 e●st the cause might be ; That in such sort thou erst vpbraidedst me ? b9cab-005-b-3200 〈◊〉 cause might be ; That in such sort thou erst vpbraidedst me ? b9cab-005-b-3210 m● ; That in such sort thou erst vpbraidedst me ? b9cab-005-b-3240 ●ses Albinius ryses vp . b9cab-006-a-0850 wre●ch grace , Which he did shewe vnto that thankles wretch ? That runnagate , that rachell , yea that b9cab-006-b-2270 Belin●s Not so Belinus , I am constant still , My minde is like b9cab-006-b-2850 ●o see Attropos appeare , With knife in hand , to slit my threed in twaine , Yet nere Albinius b9cab-007-a-0200 Th● vaine For to perswade you from this heresie : The sword shall sure put you out of doubt . b9cab-007-b-1370 a●owe Attropos , But for your countrey , Laelius doth auowe , He loues as well as any other land : Yea b9cab-008-a-2400 L●. Lae. b9cab-008-a-3000 alar● Strike vp alarum , flie Belinus , follow Laelius : flie Fabius b9cab-008-b-1000 M●ets Belinus with two other Kings , To know god Mahomets pleasure in the same : Meane time the Empresse b9cab-008-b-1890 Lali●s youthes of Aragon to me . Yea welcome Miles , Lalius and the rest , Whose prowesse alone hath b9cab-009-b-0770 presen● which Alphonsus frankly giueth thee , In presence of his warlike men at armes . And if that b9cab-011-a-0280 〈◊〉 pleasuring me in such à trifling toy . Then mightie Monarch , if it be thy will , Get their b9cab-011-a-0380 the● mightie Monarch , if it be thy will , Get their consents , and then the act fulfill . b9cab-011-a-2310 ch●est their Kings with expedition To gather vp the choesest men at armes Which now remaine in their b9cab-011-a-2890 Baiazct Exit Baiazet . b9cab-012-a-1100 P●use Amurack shall speed in these his warres : Peruse their bookes , and marke what is decreed b9cab-012-a-1930 buns●esse peerles Princes I must needs be gon , My hastie businesse calls me from this place . There resteth b9cab-012-b-1350 fo●st clapt , Which erst the proudest kings were forst to kisse , That thou shalt scape vnpunisht b9cab-013-a-0200 h●ue In recompence of which my good intent , I haue receiu'd this wofull banishment . Woful b9cab-013-a-0240 bamshment good intent , I haue receiu'd this wofull banishment . Woful said I ? nay happie I did meane b9cab-013-a-0260 Wo●l I haue receiu'd this wofull banishment . Woful said I ? nay happie I did meane , If that b9cab-013-a-1620 daikish your steps , From bending them into these darkish dennes , Yet should the daunger which is b9cab-013-a-2250 grou●s head , Nor foolish fancie ledde me to these groups , But earnest businesse egges my tremb'ing b9cab-013-a-2280 ●nest foolish fancie ledde me to these groups , But earnest businesse egges my tremb'ing steps , To b9cab-013-a-2320 tre●'ing these groups , But earnest businesse egges my tremb'ing steps , To passe all dangers what so ere b9cab-013-b-0030 strnnge purpose , what may be the cause , Of this strange and sudden banishment ? b9cab-013-b-0190 wpt The cause aske you , a simple cause god wots : Twas neither treason , nor yet felonie b9cab-013-b-2900 migh●ie your may dens in array , To set vpon the mightie Amuracke ? Oh foolish Queene , what meant b9cab-013-b-3050 pra●ing Queene , what meant you by this talke ? Those pratling speeches haue vndone you all . Do you disdaine b9cab-014-a-1630 d●re an oath can bridle so my minde , As that I dare not breake a thousand oathes , For to eschew b9cab-014-b-0600 ●oathd guiltlesse childe : But what of that , the mother loathd in heart , For to commit so vile a massacre b9cab-015-a-0040 seepters and euery other King , Which holds their scepters at the Turke his hands , Are now in armes b9cab-015-a-0890 proupk● counsell in these high affaires . Mahound prouokte by Amurackes discourse , Which as you heard b9cab-015-a-1180 in●atie play the Prophet any more , But by the long intreatie of his Priests , He prophesies in such a b9cab-015-b-2170 needs-must tongue is waxen now so free , As that it needs must chat and raile at me . b9cab-015-b-2470 th● Which from our childhood we haue offered thee , Can make thee call this sentence backe b9cab-016-a-1790 ●oyntly As you do will , we ioyntly will obey . b9cab-016-a-2060 e●st Mahomet , I needs must muse , that you which erst haue bene The readiest souldiers of the b9cab-016-a-2740 my selfe● decreed , By all the gods , and chiefly by my selfe. . That you with triumph should all Crowned b9cab-016-b-1440 allvp Rise all vp . b9cab-016-b-2990 P●bus No sooner had God Phebus brightsome beames Both Millaine land , and b9cab-017-a-0790 voong of all their youth , I still desirous as yoong gallants be , To see the fashions of Arabia b9cab-018-a-0580 so● With triumph man , did Mahound tell them so: : Prouost go carrie Fabius presently , Vnto b9cab-019-a-2220 spur● say , but horses that be free , Do need no spurs and souldiers which themselues Long and b9cab-020-b-1580 Alphnosus thou or any other wight , Shall liue to see Alphonsus flie the field From any king or Keisar who b9cab-021-a-1970 stou● Nay then proud pecock since thou art so stout , As that intreatie will not moue thy minde b9cab-021-b-1200 ro●all Amurack , your high and kingly seate , Your royall scepter , and your stately Crowne , Your b9cab-023-a-0290 O● What nere a word Alphonsus , art thou dumb ? Or doth my presence so perturbe thy minde , b9cab-025-a-0590 Immo●tall Immortall thanks I giue vnto your grace . b9cab-025-a-2340 perfo●me now are going to the Temple wards , For to performe dame Iunoes sacred rites , Where we will b9cab-025-a-2400 Whe●e For to performe dame Iunoes sacred rites , Where we will leaue them till the feast be done b9cab-025-b-0090 farr● , Meane time deare Muses , wander you not farre Foorth of the path of high Pernassus hill