The Hog Hath Lost His Pearl

THE HOGGE HATH lost his Pearle .

Actus primi Scena prima . Enter Lightfoote a country gentleman passing ouer the stage and knocks at the other dore . Lightfoote .

HOe , Whos 's within here ?

Enter Atlas a Porter At.

Ha ye any mony to pay you knock with such authority sir ?

Li.

What if I haue not , may not a man knock without money sir ?

At.

Seldome , women and Seriaunts they will not put it vp so sir .

Li.

How say you by that sir , but I prethee is not this one Atlas his house a Porter ?

At.

I am the rent payer thereof .

Li.

In good time sir .

At.

Not in good time , neither sir , for I am behinde with my Land-lord a yeere and three quarters at least .

Li.

Now if a man would giue but obseruance to this fellowes prating , a would weary his eares sooner then a Barber , d ee heare sir , lies there not one Haddit a gentleman at this house ?

At.

Here lies such a gentleman sir whose cloathes ( were they not greasie ) would bespeake him so .

Li.

Then I pray sir when your leasure shall permit , that you would vouchsafe to helpe me to the speech of him .

At.

We must first craue your oath , sir that you come not with intent to molest , perturbe , or indaunger him , for he is a gent. whom it hath pleased fortune to make her tennis ball of , and therefore subiect to be strucke by euery foole into hassard .

Li.

In that I commend thy care of him , for which friendship here s a slight reward , tell him a Country man of his , one Lightfoote is here , and will not any way dispaire of his safetie .

At.

With all respect Sir , pray commaund my house .

Exit Atlas . Li.

So , now I shall haue a sight of my Cosen gallant , he that hath consumed 800. pound a yeare , in as few yeares , as he hath cares on his head : He that was wont neuer to be found without 3 , or 4 , paire of red breeches , running before his horse , or coach . He that at a meale , hath had more seuerall kindes , then I thinke the Arke conteyn'd : He that was admir'd by niters , for his robes of gallantry , and was indeed all that an elder brother might be , prodigall , yet he , whose vnthriftinesse kept many a house , is now glad to keepe house in a house , that keepes him the poore tente of a porter , and see his appearance , I le seeme strange to him .

Enter Haddit in poore Array . Had.

Cosen Lightfoote how dost , welcome to the City ,

Li.

Who cals me Cosen , where s my Cosen Haddit , hee s surely putting on some rich apparell , for me to see him in . I ha bin thinking al the way I came vp , how much his company will Credit me .

Had.

My name is Haddit Sir , and your kinesman , if parents may be trusted , and therefore you may please to know me better , when you see me next .

Li.

I prethee fellow stay , is it possible thou shouldst be he , why he was the generous sparke of mens admiration .

Had. I am that sparke Sir , though now rak't vp in ashes , Yet when it pleaseth fortunes chops to blow Some gentler gale vpon me , I may then , From forth of embers rise and shine agen , Li.

O by your versifying I know you now sir , how dost , I knew thee not at first , th art very much altered .

Had.

Faith and so I am , exceeding much since you sawe me last , about eight hundred pound a yeere ; but let it passe , for passage carried away the most part of it , a plague of fortune

Li.

That 'st more neede to pray to fortune then curse her , she may be kind to thee when thou art penitent , but that I feare will be neuer .

Had.

O no , if she be a woman , shee le euer loue those that hate her , but cozen thou art thy fathers first-borne , helpe me but to some meanes , and I le redeeme my mortgag'd lands with a wench to boote .

Li.

As how I pray thee ?

Ha.

Marry thus , Hogge the Vsurer hath one only daughter .

Li.

Is his name Hogge , it fits him exceeding well , for as a hogge in his life time is alwayes devouring , and neuer commodious in aught till his death , euen so is he whose goods at that time may be put to many good vses .

Had.

And so I hope they shall before his death , this daughter of his , did , and I thinke doth loue me , but I then thinking my selfe worthy of an Empresse , gaue but slight respect vnto her fauour , for that her parentage sem'd not to equall my high thoughts , puft vp ,

Li.

With Tobacco surely ,

Had

No but with as bad a weede , vaine glory .

Li.

And you could now be content , to put your lofty spirits into the lowest pit of her fauour : Why what meanes will serue man , Sfoote if all I haue will repaire thy fortunes , it shall fly at thy commaund ,

Ha.

Thankes good Coze , the meanes shall not be great , only that I may first be clad in a generous outside , for that is the chiefe attraction , that drawes female affection ; good parts without any abilements of gallantry , are no more set by in these times , then a good legge in a wollen stocken : No , t is a glistering presence and audacity brings women into fooles felicity .

Li.

Yaue a good confidence Coze , but what deendien your braue outside shall effect .

Had.

That being had we le to the Vsurer where you shal offer some slight peece of land to mortgage , and if you doe it to bring our selues into cash , it shall be nere the farther from you , for here s a proiect will not be frustrate of this purpose .

Li.

That shal be shortly tryed , He instantly go seeke for a habit for thee and that of the richest too , that which shall not be subiect to the scoffe of any gallant , though to the accomplishing thereof all my meanes goes : Alas what s a man vnlesse he weare good cloathes .

Exit Lightfoote Had.

Good speed attend my suite , here s a neuer seene Nephewe kind in distresse , this giues me more cause of admiration then the losse of xxxv . settings together at Passage . I when t is performed , but words and deeds are now more different then Puritans and Players .

Enter Altas At.

Here 's the Player would speake with you .

Had.

About the Iigge , I promis'd him , my penne and inke , I prethee let him in , there may be some Cash rim'd out of him .

Enter Player . Pla.

The Muses assist you sir , what at your study so early .

O chiefely now sir for ) aurora musis amicat )

Pla.

Indeed I vnderstand not latine sir .

Ha.

You must then pardon me , good M. Change-coate , for I protest vntee it is so much my often conuerse , that if there be none but women in my company , yet cannot I forbeare it .

Pla.

That shewes your more learning sir , but I pray you is that small matter done I intreated for .

Ha.

A small matter , you le finde it worth Megge of Westminster , althouh it be but a bare Iigge .

Pla.

O lord sir , I would it had but halfe the taste of garlicke .

Ha.

Garlicke stinkes to this , proue that you haue not more whores to see this , then ere Garlicke had . say I am a boaster of mine owne workes , disgrace me on the open stage , and bob me off with nere a penny .

Pla.

O lord sir , farre be it from vs , to debarre any worthy writer of his merit ; but I pray you sir , what is the title you bestow vpon it ?

Ha.

Marry that which is full as forceable as Garlicke , the name of it is who buyes my fowre ropes of hard Onions , by which fowre ropes is meant fowre seueral kind of liuers , by the onions hangers on , as at some conuenient time I wil more particularly informe you in so rare a hidden and obscure a mistery .

Pla.

I pray let me see the beginning of it , I hope you haue made no darke sentence in 't , for I le assure our audience commonly very simple idle-headed people , and if they should heare what they vnderstand not , they would quite forsake our house .

Ha.

O nere feare it , for what I haue writ is both witty to the wise , and pleasing to the ignorant ; for you shall haue these laugh at it farre more heartily that vnderstand it not , then those that doe .

Pla.

Me thinke the end of this staffe is a foote too long .

Ha.

O no , sing it but in tune , and I dare warrant you .

Pla.

Why heare ye ,

He sings

And you that delight in truls and minions ,

Come buy my fowre ropes of hard S. Thomas onions : Looke you there S. Thomas might very wel haue been left out , besides , hard should haue come next the onions ,

Ha.

Fie no , the dismembring of a rime to bring in reason shewes the more efficacy in the writer .

Pla.

Well as you please , I pray you sir what wil the gratuity be , I would content you as neere hand as I could .

Ha.

So I beleeue ,

aside ;

Why M. Change-coate , I do not suppose we shall differ many pounds , pray make your offer , if you giue me too much , I will most Doctor of Phicke like restoare .

Pla.

You say well , looke you sir , there s a brace of angels , besides much drinke of free cost if it be lik't .

Ha.

How M. Change-coate a brace of angels besides much drinke of free cost if it be lik't , I feare you haue learned it by heart , if you haue powdred vp my plot in your sconce , you may home sir and instruct your Poet ouer a pot of ale , the whole methode on 't , but if you do so iuggle , looke too 't Shrouetuseday is at hand , and I haue some acquaintance with Bricklayers and Playsterers .

Pla.

Nay , I pray sir be not angry , for as I am a true stagetrotter , I meane honestly and looke ye , more for your loue then otherwise , I giue you a brace more .

Had.

Well , good words doe much , I cannot now be angry with you , but see henceforward , you doe like him that would please a new married wife , shew your most at first , least some other come betweene you and your desires , for I protest had you not suddenly showne your good nature , another should haue had it though t' ad bin for nothing .

Pla.

Troth I am sory I gaue you such cause of impatiency , but you shall see hereafter if your inuention take , I will not stand off for a brace more or lesse , desiring I may see your works before another .

Ha.

Nay before al others , and shotly expect a notable peece of matter such a Iigge whose tune with the naturall whistle of a carman , shall be more rauishing to the eares of shopkeepers then a whole consort of barbors at midnight .

Pla.

I am your man for 't , I pray you commaund al the kindnesse belongs to my function , as a box for your friend at a new play although I procure the hare of all my company .

Had.

No I le pay for it rather , that may breede a muteny in your whole house .

Pla.

I care not , I ha plaid a Kings part anie time these ten yeeres , if I cannot commaund such a matter t were poore ifaith .

Ha.

Well Maister chaunge coate you shal now leaue me , for I le to my studie , the morning houres are precious and my muse meditates most vpon an empty stomacke .

Pla.

I pray sir when this new inuention is produc't let not me be forgotten .

Ha.

I le sooner forget to be a Iigge maker .

Exit plaier .

So here s foure angels I little dreampt of Nay and there bee mony to be gotten by foolery , I hope fortune will not see me want .

Atlas , Atlas . ( Enter Atlas .

What was my country cose here since .

At.

Why did he promise to come againe seeing how the case stoode wye .

Ha.

Ye and to aduaunce my downe falne fortunes Atlas .

At.

But ye are not sure a meant it yee when he spake it .

Ha.

No nor is it in man to coniecture rightly the thought by the tongue .

At.

Why then i le beleeue it when I see it , if you had beene in prosperitie when a had promist you this kindenesse ,

Ha.

I had not needed it .

At.

But being now you doe , I feare you must goe without it .

Ha.

If I doe Atlas be it so , I le ene goe write this rime ouer my beds head .

Undone by folly , fortune lend me more , Canst thou , and wilt not , pox on such a where ,

And so i le set vp my rest , but see Atlas here s a little of that that dambs Lawyers , take it in part of a further recompence .

Atlas

No pray keepe it , I am conceited of your better fortunes , and therefore will stay out that expectation .

Ha.

Why if you will you may , but the surmounting of my fortunes is as much to be doubted , as he whose estate lies in the lotterie , desperate .

At.

But nere despaire sfoote why should not you liue aswel as a thousand others , that were change of taffety , whose meanes were neuer anything .

Ha.

Yes cheating , theft , and pandarising , or may be flattery , I haue maintained some of them my selfe , but come hast aught to breakefast .

At.

Yes there s the fagg end of a leg of mutton ,

Ha.

There cannot be a sweeter dish , it has Cost mony the dressing .

At.

At the barbours you meane .

Exeunt . Enter Albert solus . At.

This is the greene , and this the chamberwindow , and see appointed light stands in the casement , the ladder of ropes set orderly , yet he that should ascend , slow in his hast , is not at yet come hether .

We rt any friend that liues but Carracus I 'de trie the blisse which this fine time presents . Appoint to carry hence so rare an heire , And be so slacke sfoote a doth moue my patience , Would any man that is not voide of sence Not haue watcht night by night for such a prise , Her beautie s so attractiue , that by heauen , My heart halfe graunts to doe my friend a wrong , Forgoe these thoughts for Albert be not slaue To thy effection doe not falsifie Thy faith to him , whose onely friendships worth A world of women , hee is such a one , Thou canst not liue without his good . A is and was euer , as thine owne harts blood , Sfoot see shee beckens me for Carracus , Maria beckens him in the window . Shall my base purity , cause me neglect , This present happinesse , I will obteyne it , Spight of my tymerous Conscience , I am in person , Habit and all so like to Carracus , It may be acted , and neere called in question . Ma. cals Hist Carracus ascend . All is as cleere as in our hearts we wisht . Alb. Nay , if I goe not now , I might be gelded ifaith . Albert ascends , and being on the top of the ladder , puts outs the candle . Ma.

O loue why doe soe .

Alb. I heard the steps of some comming this way , Did you not heare Albert passe by as yet . Ma.

Nor any Creature passe this way this howre .

Alb. Then hee intends iust at the breake of day , To lend his trusty helpe to our departure : T is yet two howres time thether , till when le ts rest , For that our speedy flight will not yeeld any . Ma.

But I feare we possessing of each others presence , shall ouerslip the time , will your friend call .

Alb.

Iust at the instant , feare not of his Care :

Ma. Come then deere Carracus , thou now shalt rest , Vpon that bed , where fancy oft hath thought thee ; Which kindnesse vntill now , I nere did graunt thee , Nor would I now , but that thy loyall faith I haue so often tride , euen now , Seeing thee come to that most honored end , Through all the dangers , which blacke night presents , For to conuey me hence and marry me . Alb.

If I doe not doe so , then hate me euer ,

Ma.

I doe beleeue thee , and will hate thee neuer .

Exeunt . Enter Carracus . How pleasing are the steps we louers make , When in the paths of our content wee pace , To meet our longings : what happinesse it is Man to loue . But oh , what greater blisse To loue , and be beloued : O what one vertue , Ere raignd in me , that I should be inricht , With all Earths good at once , I haue a friend , Selected by the heauens , as a gift , To make me happy , whilst I liue one earth , A man so rare of goodnesse , firme of faith , That Earths Content must vanish in his death . Then for my loue , and mistris of my soule , A maid of rich endowments , beautified With all the vertues nature could bestow Vpon mortality , who this happy night Will make me gainer of her heauenly selfe , And see how suddenly I haue attaind , To the abode of my desired wishes ; This is the greene , how darke the night appeares . I cannot heare the tread of my true friend , Albert , hist Albert , hee s not come as yet , Nor is th appointed light set in the window . What if I call ? Maria , it may be Shee feard to set a light , and onely harkeneth To heare my steps , and yet I dare not call , Least I betray my selfe , and that my voice , Thinking to enter in the eares of her , Be of some other heard : no I will stay Vntill the comming of my deare friend Albert . But now thinke Carracus , what the end will be Of this thou dost determine , thou art come Hether to Rob a father of that wealth , That soly lengthens his now drooping yeares , His vertuous daughter , and all of that sex left , To make him happy in his aged dayes , The losse of her , may cause him to dispaire , Transport his nere decaying sence to frenzie , Or to some such abhorred inconuenience , Whereto fraile age is subiect , I do too il in this , And must not thinke but that a fathers plaint , Wil moue the Heauens , to power forth misery . Vpon the head of disobediency . Yet reason tels vs , parents are oreseene , When with two strict a reine they do hold in , Their childs affections , and controule that loue , Which the high powers deuine inspires them with , When in their shallowest iudgements they may know Affection crost , brings misery and woe : But whilst I run contemplating on this , I softly pace to my desired blisse , I le goe into the next field , where my friend , Told me the horses were in readinesse . Exit . Albert descending from Maria , Ma.

But do not stay , what if you finde not Albert ,

Alb.

I le then retourne alone to fetch you hence ,

Ma.

If you should now deceaue me , hauing gain'd , what you men seeke for .

Alb.

Sooner i le deceaue my soule , and so I feare I haue .

Ma.

At your first call I will descend .

Alb.

Till when , this touch of lips be the true pleadge , of Carracus constant true deuoted loue ,

Ma. Be sure you stay not long , farewell , I cannot lend an eare to heare you part , Exit Ma. Alb. But you did lend a hand vnto my entrance . He descends How haue I wrong'd my friend , my faith full friend , Robd him of what s more precious then his blood , His earthly heauen th' unspotted honor , Of his soule-ioying Mistres , the fruition of whose bed , I yet am warme of , whilst deere Carracus , Wanders this cold night , through th' unsheltering field , Seeking me treacherous man , yet no man neither , Though in an outward shew of such appearance , But am a Diuel indeed , for so this deed . Of wronged loue and friendship rightly makes me , I may compare my friend , to one that 's sicke , Who lying on his death-bed , cals to him , His dear'st thought friend and bids him goe , To some rare gifted man that can restore , His former health , this his friend sadly heares , And vowes with protestations to fulfill , His wisht desires , with his best performance , But then no sooner seeing that the death , Of his sicke friend , would ad to him some gaine . Goes not to seeke a remedy to saue , But like a wretch hides him to dig his graue , As I haue done for vertuous Carracus , Yet Albert be not reasonlesse , to indanger , What thou maist yet secure , who can detect , The crime of thy licentious appetite , There ones pace t is surely Carracus . Enter Carracus . Ca. Not finde my friend , sure some malignant plannet , Rules ore this night , and enuying the content , Which I in thought possesse , debarres me thus , From what is more then happy , the loued presence of a deare friend and loue , Alb. T is wronged Carracus by Alberts basenesse , I haue no power now to reueale my selfe , Car. The horses stand at the appointed place , And nights darke couerture , makes firme our safety , My friend is surely falne into a slumber , On some bancke hereabouts , I will call him , Friend , Albert , Albert . Alb

What ere you are that call , you know my name .

Ca.

I , and thy heart deare friend :

Alb. O Carracus , you are a slow pac't louer . Your credit had been toucht , had I not beene : Ca.

As how I preethee Albert :

Alb. Why I excusd you to the faire Maria ; Who would haue thought you else , a slacke performer . For comming first vnder her chamber window , Shee heard me tread , and cald vpon your name , To which I answered with a tongue like yours : And told her , I would goe to seeke for Albert , And straight retourne . Ca. Whom I haue found , thankes to thy faith , and heauen . But had not shee a light , when you came first ? Alb. Yes but hearing of some Company , Shee at my warning , was fore't to put it out : And had I bin so too , you and I too had still bin happy . aside Ca.

See we are now come to the chamber window .

Al.

Then you must call , for so I said I would ,

Ca.

Maria .

Ma. My Carracus , are you so soone retournd ? I see , you le keepe your promise . Ca. Who would not doe so , hauing past it thee , Cannot be framd of aught but trechery : Fairest descend , that by our hence departing , We may make firme the blisse of our content . Ma.

Is your friend Albert with you ?

Alb.

Yes , and your seruant honored Lady .

Ma.

Hold me from falling Carracus .

shee descends . Ca.

I will do now so ; but not at other times .

Ma. You are merry sir : But what d' ee intend with this your scaling ladder , To leaue it thus , or put it forth of sight ? Ca. Faith t s no great matter which : Yet we will take it hence , that it may breed Many confusd opinions in the house Of your escape here : Albert you shall beare it : It may bee you may chaunce to practise that way ; Which when you do , may your attempts so proue As mine haue done , most fortunate in loue . Alb May you continew euer so : But its time now to make some hast to horse : Night soone will vanish : O that it had power For euer to exclude day from our eies , For my lookes then will shew my villany : aside Car. Come faire Maria the troubles of this night , Are as forerunners to ensuing pleasures , And noble friend although now Carracus Seemes in the gaining of this beautious prise , To keepe from you so much of his lou'd treasure , Which ought not be mixted , yet his heart Shall so farre striue in your wish't happinesse , That if the losse and ruine of it selfe can but auaile your good Alb. O friend , no more , come , you are slow in haste , Friendship ought neuer be distrust in words , Till all her deeds be finish't , who looking in a booke , And reades but some part only , cannot iudge What pray so the whole deserues , because his knowledge Is grounded but on part , as thine friend is aside . Ignorant of that black mischiefe I haue done thee . Ma.

Carracus I am weary , are the horses farre ?

Ca. No fairest , we are now euen at them : Come , do you follow Albert ? Alb. Yes I do follow , would I had done so euer , And nere had gone before . Exeunt .

Actus Secundus . Enter Hogge the Usurer , with Peter seruitude trussing his points . Ho.

What hath not my young lord Wealthy been here this morning ?

Pe.

No in very deed sir , is a towardly young gentleman , shall a haue my young Mistris , your daughter , I pray you sir ?

Ho.

I that a shall Peter , she cannot be matched to greater honour and riches in all this Country ; yet the peeuish girle makes coy of it , she had rather affect a Prodigall , as there was Haddit , one that by this time cannot be otherwise then hang'd , or in some worse estate , yet shee would haue had him , but I prayse my starres shee went without him though , I did not without 's lands 't was a rare mortgage Peter ?

Pe.

As ere came in parchment , but see , here comes my young lord .

Enter young L. Wealthy . We.

Morrow father Hogge , I come to tel you strange newes , my sister is stolne away to night , t is thought by Nigromancy , what Nigromancy is , I leaue to the readers of the seauen champions of chistendome .

Ho.

But is it possible your sister should be stolne , sure some of the houshold seruants were confederates in 't .

Wel.

Faith , I thinke they would haue confest then , for I am sure my lord and father hath put them all to the bastinado twice this morning already , not a wayting-woman but has been stowed ifaith .

Pe.

Trust me a sayes wel for the most part .

Ho.

Then my lord your father is farre impatient .

We.

Impatient , I ha seene the picture of Hector in a Haberdashers shop , not looke halfe so furious , he appeares more terrible then wilde fire at a play . But father Hogge , when is the time your daughter and I shall to this wedlock druggery .

Ho.

Troth my lord when you please , shee 's at your disposure , and I rest much thankfull that your Lordship will so highly honour me , she shal haue a good portion my lord , though nothing in respect of your large reuenues ; call her in Peter , tel her my most respected lord Welthies here , to whose presence I will now commit her , and I pray you my Lord , prosecute the gaine of her affectation with the best affecting words you may , and so I bid good morrow to your lordship

Exit Ho. We.

Moreouer , father Hogge , to prosecute the gaine of her affectation with the best affecting words , as I am a Lord , a most rare phrase : well I perceiue age is not altogether ignorant , though many an old Iustice is so .

Enter Peter .

How now Peter is thy young mistris vp yet ?

Pe.

Yes indeed shee 's an early stirrer , and I doubt not hereafter , but that your lordship may say shee 's abroad before you can rise .

We.

Faith and so she may , for t is long ere I can get vp when I goe soxt to bed ; but Peter has she no other suters besides my selfe .

Pe.

No and it like your lordship , nor is fit she should .

We.

Not fit she should , I tell thee Peter , I would giue away as much as some Knights are worth , and that 's not much , only to wipe the noses of some dozen or two of Gallants , and to see how pittifully those percels of mans flesh would looke when I had caught the bird , which they had beaten the bush for .

Pe.

Indeed your lordships conquest would haue seem'd the greater .

We.

Foot , as I am a Lo. it angers me to the guts , that no body hath been about her .

Pe.

For any thing I know , your lordship may goe without her .

We.

An I could haue inioin'd her to some pale fac't louers distraction , or beene enuied for my happinesse , it had beene somewhat .

Enter Rebeeka Hogs daughter .

But see where shee comes , I knewe she had not power enough to stay another sending , for ô lords ! what are we ? our very names enforce beauty to fly , being sent for aside .

Morrow pretty Becke : how doost ?

Re.

I rather should enquire your lordships health , seeing you vp at such an early hower : was it the tooth-ake , or else fleas disturb'd you ?

We.

D ee ye think I am subiect to such common infirmities ? nay , were I diseas'd I 'de scorne but to be diseas'd like a lord ifaith : but I can tell you newes , your fellow virgin-hole player , my sister is stolne away to night .

Re.

Intruth I am glad on 't shee 's now free from the iealous eye of a father ; do not yee suspect , my lord , who it should be that hath carried her away ?

We.

No , nor care nor , as she brewes , so let her bake , so sayd the auntient prouerbe , but lady mine that shal be , your father hath wisht me to appoint the day with you .

Re.

What day my lord ?

We.

Why of mariage , as the learned Historiographer writes hymens hollidaies , or nuptial Ceremonious rites .

Re.

Why , when would you appoint that my lord ?

We.

Why let me see , I thinke the Taylor may dispatch all our vestures in a weeke : therefore , it shall be directly this day sennight .

Pe.

God giue you ioy .

Re.

Of what I pray you impudence , this fellow wil go neere to take his oath that he hath seene vs plighted faiths together , my father keeps him for no other cause , then to outsweare the truth My lord not to hold you any longer in a fooles paradice , nor to blind you with the hopes I neuer intend to accomplish , know I neither doe , can , or will loue you .

We.

How , not loue a lord ; ô indiscreete young woman ! Indeed your father told me how vnripe I should finde you : but als , one vnripe fruit will aske more shaking before they fall , then those that are , and my conquest will see me the greater still .

Pe.

Afore god is a most vnanswerable lord , and holds her too t ifaith .

We.

Nay ye could not a pleas'd me better , then seeing you so inuincible , and such a difficult attaining to , I would not giue a pin for the society of a female that should seeme willing , but giue me a wench that hath disdainefull lookes :

For t is denial whets on appetite , When proferred seruice doth allay delight . Re.

The fooles well read in vice , my lord , I hope you hereafter will no further insinuate in the course of your affections , and for the better withdrawing from them , you may please to know , I haue irreuocably decreed neuer to marry .

We.

Neuer to marry , Peter I pray beare witnes of her words that when I haue attain'd her , it may adde to my fame and conquest .

Pe.

Yes indeed an 't like your lordship .

We.

Nay , ye must think Becke I know how to woe , ye shall finde no bashfull vniuersity man of me .

Re.

Indeed I thinke y 'ad nere that bringing vp , did you euer study my lord ?

We.

Yes faith that I haue , and the last week too , three dayes and a night together .

Re.

About what I pray ?

We.

Onely to finde out , why a woman going on the right side of her husband the day time , should lie on his left side at night ; and as I am a lord , I neuer knew the meaning on 't till yesterday , Mallapert my fathers Butler being a witty Iackanapes told me why it was .

Re.

Berlady , my lord , t was a shrewd studdy , and I feare hath altered the property of your good parts , for i le assure you I lou'd you a fortnight a goe farre better .

We.

Nay , t is all one whether you doe or no , t is but a little more trouble to bring ye about agen , & no question but a man may do ot ; I am he , t is true as your father sayd , the blacke Oxe hath not trode vpon that foote of yours .

Re.

No , but the white Calfe hath , and so I leaue your lordship .

Exit Re. We.

Wel go thy waies , th' art as witty a marmaled eater , as euer I conuerst with ; now , as I am a lord , I loue her better and better , i le home and Poetise vpon her good parts presently , Peter here 's a preparative to my further applications , and Peter be circumspect in giuing me diligent notice , what sutors seeme to be pee-ping .

Pe.

I le warrant you my lord , shee 's your owne , for i le giue out to all that comes neere her , that shee s betrothed to you , and if the worst come to the worst , I le sweare it .

We.

Why god-a-mercy , and if euer I do gaine my request , Thou shalt in brauer cloathes be shortly drest .

Exeunt . Enter old L. Wealthy solus . Haue the fates then conspir'd , and quite bereft My drooping yeeres , of all the blest content That age partakes of , by the sweet aspect Of their well nurtur'd issue ; whose obedience , Discreete and duteous haueour , onely lengthens The thred of age ; when on the contrary , By rude demeanour and their headstrong wils , That thred 's soone rauel'd out : O why Maria Couldst thou abandon me now at this time , When my gray head 's declining to the graue ! Could any Masculine flatterer on earth So far bewitch thee , to forget thy selfe , As now to leaue me ? Did Nature soly giue thee me , As my chiefe inestimable treasure , Whereby my age might passe in quiet to rest : And art thou prov'd to be the only curse , Which heauen could throw vpon mortality : Yet i le not curse thee , though I feare the fates Will on thy head inflict some punishment , Which I will daily pray they may with-hold ; Although thy disobediency deserues Extreamest rigor , yet I wish to thee Content in loue full of tranquility . Enter young Welthy . But see where stands my shame , whose indiscretion Doth seeme to bury all the liuing honours , Of all our auncestours but t is the fates decree , That men might know their weake mortality . We.

Sir , I cannot finde my sister ,

Fa. I know thou canst not , t' were to rare to see Wisdome found out by ignorance . We.

How father , is it not possible that wisdome should be found out by ignorance ; I pray then how do many Magnificoes come by it ?

Fa Not buy it sonne , as you had need to doe , Yet wealth without that , may liue more content , Then wits enioyers , can debard of wealth , All pray for wealth , but I nere hard yet , Of anie but one , that ere praid for wit , Hee s counted wife enough in these vaine times , That hath but meanes enough to we are gay clothes , And be an outside of humanitie , what matters it a pin , How indiscreet so ere a natur all be , So that his wealth be great , that s it doth cause Wisdome in these daies ; so giue fooles applause , And when gay folly speakes , how vaine so ere , Wisdome must silent sit , and speech forbear . We.

Then wisdome will sit as mure as learning among many Courtiers , but father I partlie suspect that Carracus hath got my sister .

Fa.

With Childe , I feare ere this .

We.

Berlady and that may be true , but whether a has or no , it s al one , if you please , I le take her from vnder his nose in spight on s teeth , and aske him no leaue .

Fa.

That were to headstrong , sonne , wee le rather leaue them to the will of heauen .

To fall or prosper , and though young Carracus Be but a gentleman of small reuennews ; Yet lie deserues my daughter for his vertues , And had I though shee could not be withdrawne From th' affecting of him , I had ere this Made them both happy by my free consent Which now I wish I had graunted , and still pray If any haue her , it may be Carracus . We.

Troth and I wish so too , for in my minde hee s a gent. of a good house , and speakes true lattine ,

Fa. To morrow sonne , you shall ride to his house And there enquier of your sisters being , But as you tender me , and your owne good Vse no rough language sauouring of distast , Or any vnciuil tearmes . We.

Why doe ye take me for a mid-wife ,

Fa. But tell young Carracus these words from me , That if he hath with safegard of her honor , Espousd my daughter , that I then forgiue His rash offence , and will accept of him , In all the fatherly loue , I owe a childe . We.

I am sure my sister will be glad to heare it , and I cannot blame her , for shee le then inioy that with quietnesse , which many a wench in these dayes does scratch for ,

Fa.

Come sonne , i le wright to Carracus , that my owne hand may witnesse , how much I stand affected to his worth .

Exeunt . Enter Haddid in his gay apparel , making him ready , and with him Lightfoote . Had.

By this light Coze , this suite does rarely : the taylor that made it , may happe to be saued , an t be but for his good workes , I thinke I shall be proud of em , and so I was neuer yet of any clothes .

Li.

How not of your Clothes , why then you were neuer proud of any thing , for therein chiefly consisteth pride : for you neuer saw pride pictured , but in gay attire .

Ha.

True , but in my opinion , pride might as well be portraied in any other shape , as to seeme to be an affector of gallantry , being the causes thereof are so seuerall and diuers , as some are proud of their strength , although that pride cost them the losse of a limbe or two , by ouer-daring , likewise some are proud of their humor , although in that humor , they be often knockt for being so , some are proud of their drinke , although that liquid operation , cause them to weare a night cap 3. weeks after , some are proud of their good parts , although they neuer put them to better vses , then the enioying of a common strumpets company , and are only made proud by the fauor of a waiting woman , others are proud —

Li.

Nay , I preethee Coze , enough of pride , but when do you entend to go yonder to Couetousnesse the Vsurer , that we may see how neere your plot wil take , for the releasing of your mortgag'd lands .

Ha.

Why now presently , and if I do not accomplish my proiects to a wished end , I wish my fortunes may be like some scraping tradesman , that neuer embraceth true pleasure , till he be threescore and ten .

Li.

But say Hogs daughter , on whom all your hopes depend by this be betrothed to some other .

Ha.

Why say shee were , nay more , maried to another , I would be neare the further of them effecting of my intents , no Coze , I partly know her inward disposition , and did I but only know her to be woman kind , I thinke it were sufficient .

Li.

Sufficient , for what .

Had.

Why to obtaine a graunt of the best thing shee had , Chastity , Man t is not here , as t is with you in the Countrey , not to be had without fathers and mothers good will , no , the City is a place of more traffique , where each one learnes by example of their elders , to make the most of their owne , either for profit or pleasure .

Li.

T is but your misbeleeuing thoughts , makes you surmise so , if women were so kind , how haps you had not by their factors kept your selfe out of the clawes of pouerty .

Had.

O but Coze , Can a ship saile without water , had I had but such a suite as this , to set my selfe a floate , I would not haue fear'd sincking but come , no more of need , now to the Vsurer , and though all hopes do faile , a man can want no liuing , So long as sweet desire reignes in women .

Li.

But then your selfe must able be in giuing .

Exeunt . Enter Albert solus . Conscience thou horror vnto wicked men , When wilt thou cease thy all afflicted wrath , And set my soule free from the laborinth Of thy tormenting terror ; O but it fits not , Should I desire redresse or wish for comfort , That haue committed an act so inhumane , Able to fill shames spatious Chronicle . Who but a damn'd one , could haue done like me , Robd my deere friend , in a short moments time Of his loues high pri'zd Iem of Chastity : That which so many yeeres himselfe hath staid for ; How often hath he as he lay in bed , Sweetly discourst to me of his Maria ? And with what pleasing passions a did suffer Loues gentle war-siege , then he would relate How he first came vnto her faire eyes view ; How long it was ere shee could brooke affection , And then how constant shee did still abide : I then at this would ioy , as if my brest Had simpathi'zd in equall happinesse ; With my true friend : but now when ioy should be , Who but a damn'd one would haue done like me : He hath been married now at least a moneth : In all which time I haue not once behold him ; This is his house : I le call to know his health , but will not see him , My lookes would then betray me for should he aske My cause of seeming sadnesse , or the like ; I could not but reueale , and so pourd on Worse vnto id , which breeds confusion . He knocks , Enter Seruingman . Ser.

To what intent d ee knocke sir .

Al.

Because I wold be heard sir , is the Mr. of this house within ?

Ser.

Yes marry is a sir , would you speake with him ?

Alb. My businesse is not so troublesome : Is a in health with his late espoused wife Ser.

Both are exceeding well sir .

Alb.

I me truly glad on t , farewel good friend .

Ser.

I pray you le ts craue your name sir , I may els haue anger .

Alb.

You may say , one Albert riding by this way , onely inquir'd their health .

Ser.

I will acquaint so much .

Exit Ser. Alb. How like a poisonous Doctor haue I come , To enquire their wel-fare , knowing that my selfe Haue giuen the portion of their nere recouery ; For which I will afflict my selfe with torture euer : And since the earth yeelds not a remedy , Able to salue the sores my lust hath made , I le now take fare-wel of society , And th' aboade of men to entertaine a life Fitting my fellowship , in desart woods ; Where beasts like me consort , there may I liue , Farre off from wronging vertuous Carracus ; There s no Maria that shall satisfie My hatefull lust , the trees shall shelter This wretched trunke of mine , vpon whose backe . I will engraue the story of my sinne , And there this short breath of mortality , I le finish vp in that repentant state ; Where not th' allurements of earths vanities Can ere ore-take me , there 's no baites for lust , No friend to ruine , I shall then be free From practising the art of treachery ; Thither then steps where such content abides , Where penitency not disturb'd may greeue , Where on each tree and springing plant , I le carue This heauy motto of my misery . Who but a damb'd one could haue done like me ? Carracus farewel , if ere thou seest me more , Shalt finde me curing of a sole-sicke sore . Exit .

Actus Tertius . Enter Carracus driuing his man before him . Ca.

Why thou base villaine , was my dearest friend here , and couldst not make him stay ?

Ser.

Sfoote sir , I could not force him against his wil , an a had been a woman .

Ca.

Hence thou vntuter'd slaue .

Exit Ser.

But couldst thou Albert come so nere my dore , and not vouchsafe the comfort of thy presence ?

Hath my good fortune caus'd thee to repine ? And seeing my state so full repleate with good , Canst thou with-draw thy loue to lessen it ? What could so moue thee , was 't because I married ? Didst thou imagine I infring'd my faith , For that a woman did participate In equall share with thee ? Cannot my friendship Be firme to thee , because t is deare to her ; Yet no more deere to her then firme to thee : Beleeue me Albert ; thou dost little thinke , How much thy absence giues cause of discontent , But i le impute it onely to neglect , It is neglect indeed when friends neglect The sight of friends , and say t is troublesome ; Onely aske how they do , and so fare well : Shewing an outward kinde of seeming duty , Which in the rules of manhood is observ'd And thinke full well they haue performd their taske , When of their friends health they do onely aske , Not caring how they are , or how distrest , It is enough they haue their loues exprest , In bare enquiry , and in these times too Friendships so cold that fewe so much will doe : And am not I beholding then to Albert , He after knowlede of our being well , Sayd he was truly glad on 't : ô rare friend ! If he be vnkind how many more may mend ; But whether am I carried by vnkindnesse ? Why should not I as wel set light by friendship , Since I haue seene a man whom I late thought , Had been compos'd of nothing but of faith , Proue so regardlesse of his friends content . Enter Maria Ma. Come Carracus I haue sought you all about , Your seruant told me you were much disquieted Prethee loue be not so , come walke in , I le charm thee with my lute from forth disturbance . Ca. I am not angry sweet , though if I were , Thy bright aspect would soone alay my rage ; But my Maria , it doth something moue me , That our friend Albert so forgets himselfe . Ma. It may be 't is nothing els , & there s no doubt He le soone remember his accustom'd friendship He thinks , as yet , peraduenture that his presence Will but offend , for that our marriage rites Are but so newly past . Ca. I will surmise so too , and onely thinke , Some serious businesse hinders Alberts presence : But what ring 's that Maria on your finger ? Ma. T is one you lost loue , when I did bestow A iewell of farre greater worth on you . Ca.

At what time fairest ?

Ma.

As if you knew not , why d ee mak 't so strange .

Ca. Y are dispos'd to riddle , pray le ts see 't , I partly know it , where wa st you sound it ? Ma. Why in my chamber that most gladsome night When you enricht your loue by my escape . Ca.

How , in your Chamber ?

Ma. Sure Carracus I will be angry with you If you seeme so forgetfull , I tooke it vp Then when you left my lodge and went away , Glad of your conquest for to seeke your friend : Why stand you so amaz'd , sir I hope that kindnesse Which then you reaped , doth not preuaile So in your thoughts , as that you thinke me light . Ca. O thinke thy selfe Maria what thou art : This is the ring of Albert treacherous man , Hee that enioy'd thy virgin chastity : I neuer did ascend into thy chamber ; But all that cold night through the frozen field , Went seeking of that wretch , who nere sought me ; But found what his lust sought , for dearest thee . Ma,

I haue heard enough my Carracus to bereaue me of this little breath , she sounds .

Ca.

All breath be first extinguishe , within there ho ?

Enter Nurse and Seruants .

O Nurse see heere , Maria saies shee le die .

Nu.

Marry , God forbid , oh Mris. Ms. Ms. she has breath yet , shee s but in a traunce , good sir take comfort shee le recouer by and by .

Ca.

No , no , shee le die Nurse , for she sayd she would , an she had not sayd so , t ad bene another matter , but you know Nurse she nere told a lie , I will beleeue her , for she speaks all truth .

Nur. His memory begins to faile him , come le ts beare This heauy spectacle from forth his presence , The heauens wil lend a hand , I hope , of comfort , Exeunt Ca. manet . Ca. See how they steale away my faire Maria , But I will follow after her as farre , As Orpheus did to gaine his soules delight , And Plutoes selfe shall know , although I am not Skilful in musique , yet I can be mad , And force my loues enioyment in despight Of hels blacke fury ; but stay , stay Carracus , Where is thy knowledge , and that rational sence , Which heauen ; great Architect indued thee with ? All sunke beneath the waight of lumpish nature ? Are our diuiner parts no noblier free , Then to be tortur'd by the weake assailements Of earth-sprung griefes ? why is man then accompted The head commaunder of this vniuerse , Next the Creator , when a little storme Of natures fury straight ore'whelmes his iudgement , But mines no little storme , t is a tempest So full of raging selfe-consuming woe , That nought but ruine followes expectation : Oh my Maria , what vnheard of sinne Haue any of thine Auncestors enacted , That all their shame should be powr'd thus on thee ; Or what incestuous spirit , cruell Albert Left hels vast wombe for to enter thee , And do a mischiefe of such treachery . Enter Nurse weeping . Oh Nurse , how is t with Maria ? If ere thy tongue did vtter pleasing words , Let it now do so , or hereafter ere be dumbe in sorrow . Nur. Good sir take comfort , I am forc't to speake What will not please , your chaste wife sir is dead . Ca.

T is dead indeed , how did you know t was so Nurse ?

Nur.

What sir ?

Ca. That my heart was dead , sure thou hast serv'd Dame natures selfe , and knowest the inward secrets Of all our hidden powers , i le loue thee for 't ; And if thou wilt teach me that vnknowne skill , Shalt see what wonder Carracus will do ; I le diue into the breast of hatefull Albert , And see how his blacke soule is round incompast By fearefull fiends , oh I would do strange things , And know to whose cause Lawyers wil incline , When they had fees on both sides , viewe the thoughts Of for-lorne widdowes when their Knights haue left them ; Search through the guts of grearnes , and behold What seueral sin best pleas'd them , thence I de descend Into the bowels of some pocky sit : And tell to leachers all the paines he felt , That they thereby might warned be from lust , Troth t will be rare , i le study it presently . Nur. Alas ! hee 's distracted , what a sinne Am I partaker of by telling him , So curst an vntruth ? But 't was my Mistris will Who is recouer'd , though her griefes neuer Can be recouer'd , shee hath vow'd with teares Her owne perpetuall banishment , therefore to him Death was not more displeasing , then if I Had told her lasting absence . Ca. I finde my braines too shallow farre for study , What neede I care for being a Rethmetitian , Let Cittizens sonnes stand and they will for Ciphers ; Why should I teach them and go beate my braines , To instruct vnapt , and vnconceauing dolts , And when all 's done , my art that should be fam'd , Will by grosse imitation be but sham'd , Your iudgement Madam ? Nur.

Good sir walke in , wee le fend for learned men that may alay your frenzy .

Ca. But can Maria so forget her selfe , As to debarre vs thus of her attendance ? Nur.

Shee is within sir , pray you wil you walke to her .

Ca. Oh is she so , come then le ts softly steale Into her chamber , if she be a sleepe I le laugh shalt see enough , and thou shalt weepe , Softly good long coate , softly . Exeunt . Enter Maria in Pages apparrell . Ma. Cease now thy steps Maria , and looke backe Vpon that place , where distrest Carracus Hath his sad being , from whose vertuous hosome , Shame hath constrain'd me fly nere to retourne : I will goe seeke some vnfrequented path , Either in desert woods or wildernesse , There to bewaile my innocent mishaps , Which heauen hath iustly powred downe on me . In punishing my disobediency . Enter young Lo. Wealthy . Oh see my brother Exit Maria . Wel.

Ho you , three foote and a halfe , why Page I say , sfoot is vanisht as sodainly as a dumbe shewe , if a lord had lost his way now so a had been serued , but let me see ; as I take it , this is the house of Carracus , a very faire building , but it lookes as if t were dead , I can see no breath come out of the chimnies ; but I shall know the state on 't by and by , by the looks of some seruing-man : What no within here ?

Enter Ser. Ser.

Good sir , you haue your armes at liberty , wilt please you to with-draw your action of battery .

Wel.

Yes indeed , now you haue made your appearance , is the liuing-giuer within sir ?

Ser.

You meane my Master sir ?

Wel.

You haue hit it sir , prays'd bee your vnderstanding , I am to haue conference with him , would you admit my presence .

Ser.

Indeed sir he is at this time not in health , and may not be disturb'd .

We.

Sir , an a were in the pangs of childe-bed , I 'de speake with him .

Enter Carracus . Ca.

Vpon what cause gay-man ?

We.

Sfoote I thinke a be disturb'd indeed , a speakes more commaunding then a Constable at midnight .

Sir , my lord and father , by me a lord , hath sent these lines inclos'd , which shew his whole intent .

Ca. Let me peruse them , if they do portend To the States good , your answere shall be sodaine , Your entertainement friendly ; but if otherwise , Our meanest subiect shall diuide thy greatnes , You 'd best looke too 't Embassador . We.

Is yous Mr. a Statesman friend ?

Ser.

Alas no sir , a vnderstands not what a speakes .

We.

I but when my father dies , I am to be call'd in for one my selfe , and I hope to beare the place as grauely as my successors haue done before me .

Ca. Embassador , I finde your Masters will Treats to the good of somewhat , what it is You haue your answere , and may now depart . We.

I will relate as much sir , fare ye well .

Ca. But stay , I haue forgotten quite our chief'st affaires , Your Master further writes some three lines lower , Of one Maria that is wife to me , That she and I should trauel now with you Vnto his presence . We.

Why now I vnderstand you sir , that Maria is my sister , by whose coniunction you are created brother , to me a lord .

Ca.

But brother lord we cannot goe this iourney .

We.

Alas no sir , we meane to ride it , my sister shall ride vpon my nagge .

Ca. Come then wee le in , and striue to woe your sister , I ha not seene her sir , at least these three dayes , They keepe her in a Chamber , and tell me Shee 's fast a sleepe still , you and i le go see , We.

Content sir .

Ser.

Mad-men and fooles agree .

Exeunt . Enter Haddit and Rebecka . Re.

When you haue got this prise , you meane to lose me .

Ha.

Nay pree doe not thinke so , if I doe not marry thee this instant night , may I neuer enioy breath a minute after ; by heauen I respect not his pelfe , thus much , but onely that I may haue wherewith to maintaine thee .

Re.

O but to rob my father , though a be bad , the world will thinke ill of me .

Ha.

Thinke ill of thee , can the world pitty him , that nere pittied any , besides since their is no end of his goods , nor beginning of his goodnesse ; had not we as good share his drosse in his life time , as let Controuersie and Lawyers deuowre it at s death ?

Re.

You haue preuail'd , at what houre is t you entend to haue entrance into his chamber ?

Ha.

Why iust at mid-night , for then our apparition will will seeme most fearefull , you le make away that we may ascend vp like spirits ?

Re.

I will , but how many haue you made instruments herein ?

Ha.

Faith none , but my cosen Lightfoote and a plaier .

Re.

But may you trust the player ?

Ha.

Oh exceeding well , we le giue him a speech a vnderstands not , but now I thinke out , what s to be done with your Fathers man Peter ?

Re.

Why the least quantity of drinke , will lay him dead asleepe ; But harke , I heare my father comming , soone in the euening i le conuay you in .

Ha.

Till when , let this outward ceremony , be the true pledge of our inward affections .

Exit Reb.

So , this goes better forward then the Plantation in Virginia : but see here comes halfe the west Indies , whose rich mines this night I meane to be ransacking

Enter Hog , Lightfoote , & Peter . Hog .

Then you le seale for this small Lordship you say , To morrow your mony shall be rightly told vp for you to a peny .

Li.

I pray let it , and that your man may set contents vpon euerie bag .

Ha.

Indeed by that wee may know what we steale without labour , for the telling on t ore ; how now gent. are ye agreed vpon the price of this earth and clay .

Hog ,

Yes faith Mr. Haddit the gent , your friend here makes me paye sweetlie for 't but let it goe , I hope to inherite heauen an t be but for doing gentlemen pleasure .

Hog .

Peter .

Pe.

Anon sir .

Hogge

I wonder how Haddit came by that gay suite of clothes , all his meanes was consumed long since .

Pe.

Why sir being vndone himselfe ; a liues by the vndoing or by-lady , it may be by the doing of others , or peraduenture both a decayed gallant may liue by any thing , if a keepe one thing safe .

Hog .

Gentlemen , I le to the Scriueners to cause these writings to be drawne .

Li.

Pray doe sir , wee le now leaue you till the morning .

Hog .

Nay , you shall stay dinner , i le retourne presently ; Peter some beare here for these worshipful gentlemen .

Exit Hagge , Come Peter . Ha.

We shall be bold no doubt , and that olde penny-father you le confesse by to morrow morning .

Li.

Then his daughter is certainely thine , and condiscends to all thy wishes .

Had

And yet you would not once beleeue it , as if a females fauour could not be obteyn'd by any , but he that weares the Cap of maintenance .

When 't is nothing but acquaintance and a bold spirit , That may the chiefest prize mongst all of them inherit , Li.

Well thou hast got one deserues the bringing home with trumpets , and fals to thee as miraculously as the 1000. pound did to the Tailor , thanke your good fortune , but must Hogges man be made druncke ,

Had.

By all meanes : and thus it shall be effected , when a comes in with beere , do you vpon some slight occasion fall out with him , and if you doe giue him a cuffe or two , it will giue him cause to know y' are the more angry , then will I slip in and take vp the matter , and striuing to make you two friends , we le make him druncke .

Li.

It s done in conceipt already , see where a comes .

Enter Peter . Pe.

Wil t please you to tast a cup of September beare gentiem .

Li.

Pray begin , we le pleadge you sir .

Pet.

It s out sir . Li. then my hand in sir .

( Li. cuffes him . Li.

Why goodman hobby horse , if we out of our gentility offered you to beginne , must you out of your rascality needes take it .

Had.

Why how now sirs , what s the matter .

Pe.

The gentleman here fals out with me , vpon nothing in the world but mere courtesie ,

Had.

By this light but a shall not , why Cozen Lightfoote .

Pe.

Is his name Lighfoote , a plague on him , a has a heauie hande .

Enter young Lord welthy . We.

Peace be here : for I came late enough from a madman .

Had.

My young Lord , God saue you .

We.

And you also : I could speake it in lattine , but the phrase is common .

Had.

True my Lords , and what s common , ought not much to be dealt with all : but I must desire your helpe my Lord to end a Controuersie here , betweene this gentleman my friend , and honest Peter , who I dare be sworne is as ignorant as your Lordshippe .

We.

That I will , but my masters thus much i le say vntee , if so be this quarrell may be taken vp peaceably , without the indangering of my owne person , well , and good , otherwise I will not meddle therewith , for I haue beene vext late enough alreadie .

Had.

Why then my Lord if it please you , let me , being your inferiour , decree the cause betweene them .

We,

I doe giue leaue , or permit .

Had.

Then thus I will propound a reasonable motion ; how many cuffes Peter did this gent. out of his fury make thee partaker of ?

Pe.

Three at the least sir .

Ha.

All which were bestowed vpon you for beginning first Peter .

Pe.

Yes indeed sir .

Ha.

Why then here the sentence of your suffering , you shal both downe into Master Hogs seller Peter , and whereas you began first to him , so shall he there to you , and as he gaue you three cuffes , so shall you retort of in defiance of him , three blacke Iackes , which if he deny to pledge ; then the glory is thine , and he accompted by the wise discretion of my Lord here a flincher .

Omnes

A very reasonable motion .

We.

Why so , this is better then being among mad-men yet .

Ha.

Were you so lately with any my Lord ?

We.

Yes faith , I le tell you all in the Seller , how I was taken for an Embassador , and being no sooner in the house , but the mad man carries mee vp into the garret for a spie , and very roundly bad me vntrusse , and had not a courteous seruing man conueied me away whilst he went to fetch whips I thinke in my conscience : not respecting my honour a would a breecht me .

Had.

By Lady , and t' was to be fear'd ; but come my Lord we le heare the rest in the seller .

And honest Peter thou that hast beene greeued , My Lord and I , will see thee well relieued . Exeunt .

Actus Quartus . Enter Albert in the woodes . How full of sweet content had this life beene , If it had beene embraced but before My burthenous conscience was so fraught with sinne ; But now my griefes oresway that happinesse : O that some lecher or accurst betrayer : Of sacred friendship , might but here arriue , And reade the lines repentant on each tree , That I haue caru'd t' expresse my misery : My admonitions now , would sure conuert , The sinfulst creature ; I could tell them now , How idely vaine those humanes spend their liues , That daily grieue not for offences past , But to enioy some wantons company ; Which when obteyn'd , what is it , but a blot , Which their whole liues repentance scarse can cleere : I could now tell to friend betraying man , How blacke sinne is hatefull trechery , How heauy on their wretched soules t' will fit , When fearefull death doth plant his siege but nere them , How heauy and affrightfull will their end Seeme to appeach them , as if then they knew , The full beginning of their endlesse woe Were then appointed ; which astonishment O blest repentance keepe me Albert from ! And suffer not dispaire to ouer-whelme , And make a ship-wracke of my heauy soule . Enter Maria like a page . Whos 's here , a Page : what blacke disasterous fate Can be so cruell to his pleasing youth ? Ma. So now Maria , here thou must forgoe What nature lent thee to repaie to death ; Famine I thanke thee , I haue found thee kindest , Thou set'st a period to my misery . Al. It is Maria that faire innocent , Whom my abhorred lust hath brought to this ; I le goe for sustenance : and O you powers ! If euer true repentance wan acceptance , O shew it Albert now , and let him saue His wronged beauty from vntimely graue . Exit Albert . Ma. Sure some thing spake , or els my feebled sence Hath lost the vse of its due property ; Which is more likely , then that in this place , The voice of humane creature should be heard ; This is farre distant from the pathes of men , Nothing breaths here but wilde and rauening beasts , With ayry monsters , whose shaddowing wings doe seeme To taste a vale of death in wicked liuers ; Which I liue dreadlesse of , and euery hower Striue to meete death , who still vnkinde auoids me : But that now gentle famine doth begin For to giue end to my calamities . See , here is caru'd vpon this trees smooth barke , Lines knit in verse , a chaunce farre vnexpected ; Assist me breath a little to vnfold , what they include . I that haue writ these lines , am one , whose sinne The Writing Is more then grieuous ; for know , that I haue beene A breaker of my faith , with one whose brest Was all compos'd of truth : but I digrest . And fled , them brats of his deare friendships loue , Clasping to falshood did a vilane proue , As thus shall be exprest : my worthy friend Lou'd a faire beauty , who did condiscend In dearest affection to his vertuous will He then a night appointed to fulfill Hymens blest-rites , and to conuey away His loues faire person , to which peerelesse pray I was acquainted made , and when the hower Of her escape drew on , then lust did power Inraged appetite through all my veines . And base desires in me let loose the reines To my licentious will , and that blacke night When my friend should haue had his chast delight , I fain'd his presence , and by her , thought him Rob'd that faire virgin of her honors Iem : For which most heynous , crime vpon each tree I write this story that mens eyes may see , None but a damn'd one would haue done like me . Is Albert then become so penitent , As in these desarts to deplore his facts , Which his vnfain'd repentance seemes to cleere : How good man is , when he laments his ill ? Who would not pardon now that mans misdeeds , Whose griefes bewaile them thus , could I now liue , I 'de remit thy fault with Carracus : But death no longer will afford repreeue Of my aboundant woes : wrong'd Carracus farewell , Liue , and forgiue thy wrongs , for the repentance Of him that caus'd them , so deserues from thee ; And since my eyes do witnesse Alberts griefe , I pardon Albert in my wrongs the chiefe . Enter Albert like a Hermit . Alb. How pardon me , O sound Angelicall , But see ! shee faints , O heauens now shew your power , That these distilled waters made in griefe , May ad some comfort to affliction : Looke vp faire youth , and see a remedy . Ma. O who disturbs me , I was hand in hand , Walking with death vnto the house of rest . Al. Let death walke by himselfe , if a want company , There s many thousands boy , whose aged yeeres Haue tane a surfet of earths vanities , They will goe with him , when he please to call , To drinke my boy thy pleasing tender youth Cannot deserue to dye , no , it is for vs , Whose yeeres are laden by our often sinnes , Singing the last part of our blest repentance , Are fit for death , and none but such as we , Death ought to claime ; for when a snatcheth youth , It shewes him but a tyrant ; but when age , Then is a iust , and not compos'd of rage . How fares my lad ? Ma. Like one imbracing death with all his parts , Reaching at life but with one little finger ; His minde so firmely knit vnto the first , That vnto him the latter seemes to be What may be pointed at , but not possest . Al. O but thou shalt possesse it . If thou didst feare thy death but as I doe , Thou wouldst take pitty , though not of thy selfe , Yet of my aged yeeres ; trust me my boy , Tha 'st strucke such deepe compassion in my breast , That all the moisture which prolongs my life , Will from my eyes gush forth , if now thou leau'st me . Ma. But can we liue here in this desart wood , If not , i le die , for other places seeme , Like tortures to my griefes , may I liue here ? Alb. I , thou shalt liue with me , and I will I tell thee Such strang occurrents of my fore-past life , That all thy young sprung griefes shall seeme but sparkes To the great fire of my calamities ; Then i le liue onely with you for to heare , If any humane woes can be like mine ; Yet since my being in this darkesome desart , I haue read on trees most lamentable stories . Alb. T is true indeed , there s one within these woods Whose name is Albert , a man so full of sorrow , That one each tree he passeth by he earues , Such dolefull lines for his rash follies past , That who so reades them , and not drown'd in teares ; Must haue a heart fram'd forth of Addamant . Ma.

And can you helpe to the sight of him ?

Alb. I when thou wilt , bele often come to me , And at my Caue sit a whole winters night , Recounting of his stories , I tell thee boy Had he offended more then did that man , Who stole the fire from heauen , his contrition Would appease all the gods , and quite reuert Their wrath to mercy ; but come my pretty boy We le to my Caue , and after some repose , Relate the sequell of each others woes . Exeunt . Enter Carracus . Ca. What a way haue I come , yet I know not whither , The ayers so cold this winter season , I 'me sure a foole , would any but an asse Leaue a warme matted chamber and a bed , To run thus in the cold , and which is more , To seeke a woman , a slight thing cald woman , Creatures , with curious nature fram'd as I suppose , For rent receauers to her treasury ; And why I thinke so now , I le giue you instance ; Most men doe know that natures selfe hath made them , Most profitable members , then if so . By often trading in the common wealth They needs must be inricht , why very good , To whom ought beauty then repaie this gaine Which shee by natures gift hath profited ; But vnto nature ? why all this I graunt , Why then they shall no more be called woman , For I will stile them thus , scorning their leaue , Those that for nature doe much rent receaue . This is a wood sure , and as I haue read , In woods are Eccho's which will answere men , To euery question which they do propound : Echo , Echo , Echo . Ca. O are you there , haue at ye then ifaith , Echo canst tell me whether men or women Are for the most part damb'd ? Echo most part damb'd . Ca. Of both indeed , how true this Echo speakes , Echo , now tel me if mongst 1000. women , There be one chaste , or none ? Echo , none . Ca. Why so I thinke , better and better still : Now further Echo , in a world of men , Is there one faithfull to his friend , or no ? Echo no . Ca. Thou speak'st most true , for I haue found it so ; Who sayd thou wast a woman Echo lies , Thou couldst not then answere so much of truth , Once more good Echo , Was my Maria false by her owne desire , Or wast against her will ? Echo against her wil . Troth 'le may be so , but canst thou tell , Whether she be dead or not ? Echo not . Ca.

Not dead .

Echo not dead .

Then without question she doth surely liue : But I do trouble thee too much , therfore good speak truth , farewel .

Ec. farewel . Ca. How quick it answers , ô that Conncellors Would thus resolue mens doubts without a fee . How many country Clyents then might rest Free from vndooing , no plodding pleader then Would purchase great possessions with his tongue ; Were I some demy-god , or had that power , I 'de straight make this Echo here a iudge ; Hee 'd spend his iudgement in the open court , As now to me , without being once solicited In 's priuate chamber , t is not bribes could win Him to o're-sway mens right , nor could he be Lead to damnation for a little pelfe ; He would not harbour malice in his heart , Or enuious hatred , base dispight or grudge , But be an vpright , iust , and equall Iudge ; But now imagine that I should confront Treacherous Albert , who hath rais'd my front . But I feare this idle prate hath Made me quite forget my cinque pace . he daunceth . Enter Albert . Alb. I heard the Eccho answere vnto one , That by his speech cannot be far remote From of this ground , and see I haue discried him : Oh heauens ! it s Carracus , whose reasons seate Is now vsurpt by madnes , and distraction ; Which I the author of confusion Haue planted here , by my accursed deeds . Ca.

O are you come sir , I was sending the Tauerne-boy for ye , I haue been practising here , and can do none of my loftie trickes .

Alb. Good sir , if any sparke do yet remaine Of your consumed reason , let me striue . Ca. To blow it out , troth I most kindly thank you , Here s friendship to the life ; but father whay-beard , Why should you thinke me void of reasons fire , My youthfull dayes being in the height of knowledge ? I must confesse your old yeeres gaines experience ; But that 's so much orer-ul'd by dotage , That what you think experience shall effect , Short memory destroies , what say you now sir ? Am I mad now , that can answere thus To all intergatories ? Alb. But though your words do sauor sir of iudgement , Yet when they derogate from the due obseruance Of fitting times , they ought not be respected , No more , then if a man should tell a tale Of fained mirth in midst of extreame sorrowes . Ca. How did you know my sorrowes sir ? What though I haue lost a wife , Must I be therefore grieued ; am I not happy To be so freed of a continuall trouble ? Had many a man such fortune as I , In what a heauen would they thinke themselues ? Being releast of all those threatning cloudes , Which in the angry skies , cal'd womens browes , Sit euer menacing tempestuous stormes : But yet I needs must tell you , old December , My wife was cleere of this ; within her browe , Sh 'ad not a wrinkle nor a storming frowne ; But like a smooth well polishe Ivory . It seem'd so pleasant to the looker on , She was so kinde , of nature so gentle , That if sh 'ad done a fault shee 'd straight go die for 't : Was not she then a rare one ? What weep'st thou aged Nestor ? Take comfort man , Troy was ordain'd by fate To yeeld to vs , which we will ruinate . Alb. Good sir walke with me , but where you see The shaddowing Elmes , within whose circling round There is a holy spring about incompast , By dandling siccamores and violets , Whose waters cure all homane maladies : Few drops thereof being sprinkled on your temples , Reuiues your fading memory , and restores Your sences lost vnto their perfect being . Ca. Is it cleere water sir , and very fresh ? For I am thirsty ; giues it a better rellish Then a cup of dead wine with sties in 't ? Alb.

Most pleasant to the taste , pray will you goe .

Ca.

Faster then you I beleeue sir .

Exeunt . Enter Maria . Ma. I am walkt forth from my preservers caue , To search about these woods , only to see The penitent Albert , whose repentant minde Each tree expresseth : ô that some power diuine Would hither send my vertuous Carracus ; Not for my owne content , but that be might See how his distrest friend repents the wrong , Which his rash folly , most vnfortunate Acted against him and me , which I forgiue A hundred times a day , for that more often My eyes are witnes to his said complaints , How the good Hermit seemes to share his mones , Which in the day time he deplores 'mongst trees , And in the night his Caue is fild with sighs ; No other bed doth his weake limbs support Then the cold earth , no other harmony To rocke his cares asleepe , but blustering windes , Or some swift Current , headlong rushing downe From a high Mountaines top , powring his force Into the Oceans gulfe , where being swallowed , Seemes to be waile his fall with hideous words : No other sustentation to suffice What Nature claimes , but rawe vnsauowry rootes , With troubled waters , where vntamed beasts , Do bathe themselues : Enter Satyrs , dance & Exeunt . Ay me ! what things are these ? What pretty harmelesse things they seeme to be ? As if delight had no where made abode , But in their nimble sport . Enter Albert . Yonder s the courteous Hermit , and with him Albert it seeemes , ô see t is Carracus , Ioy do not now confound me . Ca. Thanks vnto heauens & thee thou holy man , I haue attain'd what doth adorne mans being , That pretious Iemme of reason , by which soly , We are discern'd from rude and brutish beasts , No other difference being twixt vs and them . How to repay this more then earthly kindnesse , Lies not within my power , but in his That hath indu'd thee with celestiall gifts , To whom I le pray , he may bestow on thee What thou deserv'st , blest immortality . Alb. Which vnto you befall , thereof most worthy : But vertuous sir , what I will now request From your true generous nature , is , that you would Be pleas'd to pardon that repentant Wight Whose sinfull stories vpon you trees barke , Your selfe did reade , for that you say , to you Those wrongs were done . Ca. Indeed they were , and to , a deere wife lost ; Yet I forgiue him , as I wish the heauens May pardon me . Ma.

So doth Maria to .

she discouers her selfe . Ca. Liues my Maria then ? what gratious plannet Gaue thee safe conduct to these desert woods ? Ma. My late mishap ( repented now by all , And therfore pardon'd ) compelled me to fly , Where I had perished for want of foode , Had not this courteous man awak't my sence , In which , deaths selfe had partly interest . Ca. Alas Maria ! I am so farre indebted To him already , for the late recouery of My owne weaknesse , that t is impossible For vs to attribute sufficient thankes , For such aboundant good . Alb. I rather ought to thanke the heauens Creator , That he vouchsaf't me such especiall grace , In dooing so small a good , which could I howerly Bestowe on all , yet could I not asswage The swelling rancor of my fore-past crimes . Ca. O sir , dispaire not for your course of life ( were your sinnes farre more odious then they be ) Doth moue compassion and pure clemency In the al-ruling Iudge , whose powerfull mercy Oreswayes his iustice , and extends it selfe To all repentant mindes , hee 's happier farre That sinnes , and can repent him of his sinne ; Then the selfe iustifier , who doth surmise By his owne workes to gaine saluation , Seeming to reach at heauen and claspe damnation : You then are happy , and our penitent friend , To whose wisht presence please you now to bring vs , That in our gladsome armes we infold His much esteemed person , and forgiue The iniuries of his rash follies past . Alb. Then see false Albert prostrate at your feete , he discouers himselfe . Desiring Iustice for his haynous ill . Ca. Is it you Alberts selfe that hath preserv'd vs ? O blest bewailer of thy misery ! Ma.

And woful'st liuer in calamity .

Ca. From which , right worthy friend , it s now high time You be releast , come then you shall with vs , Our first and chiefest welcome my Maria , We shall receaue at your good fathers house ; Who , as I do remember , in my frenzy Sent a kinde letter which desired our presence . Alb. So please you , vertuous paire , Albert will stay , And spend the remnant of this weary some life In these darke woods . Ca. Then you neglect the comforts heauen doth send , To your abode on earth , if you stay here Your life may end in torture , by the cruelty Of some wilde rauenous beasts , but if mongst men When you depart , the faithfull prayers of many Will much auaile , to crowne your soule with blisse . Alb. Lou'd Carracus , I haue found in thy conuerse Comfort so blest , that nothing now but death , Shall cause a separation in our being . Ma.

Which heauen confirme .

Ca. Thus by the breach of faith , our friendships knit In stronger bonds of loue . Alb.

Heauen so continue it .

Exeunt .

Actus Quintus . Enter Hogge in his chamber with Rebecka laying downe his bed , and seeming to put the keyes vnder his boulster conuayeth them into her pocket . Ho

So , haue you layd the keyes of the outward dores vnder my boulster ?

Re.

Yes forsooth .

Ho. Go your way to bed then . Exit Re. I wonder who did at the first inuent These beds , the breeders of disease and sloth , A was no souldier sure , nor no scholler , And yet a might be very well a Courtier ; For no good husband would haue bin so idle , No Vsurer neither ; yet here the bed affords discouers his gold . Store of sweet golden slumbers vnto him ; Here sleepes commaund in warre , Caesar by this Obtain'd his triumphs , this will fight mans cause , When fathers , brethren , and the neer'st of friends Leaues to assist him , all content to this Is meerely vaine , the louers whose affections Do simpathize together in full pleasure , Debarr'd of this their summer sodaine ends , And care the winter to their former ioyes , Breath's such a cold blast on their Turtles bils ; Hauing not this , to shrow'd him forth his stormes , They straight are forc't to make a separation , And so liue vnder those that rule ore this . The Gallant , whose illustrious out-side drawes The eyes of wantons to behold with wonder Hir rare shap't parts , for so he thinks they be , Deck't in the roabes of glistering gallantry : Hauing not this , attendant on his person , Walkes with a clowdy brow , and seemes to all A great contemner of society ; Not for the hate he beares to company , But for the want of this ability : O siluer ! thou that art the basest captiue Kept in this prison : how many pale offendors For thee haue suffered ruine ; but ô my gold Thy sight 's more pleasing , then the seemely locks Of yallow hair'd Apollo , and thy touch More smooth and dainty , then the downe-soft white Of Ladies tempting breast , thy bright aspect Dimm's the great'st luster of heauens Waggoner . But why goe I about to extoll thy worth , Knowing that Poets cannot compasse it ; But now giue place my gold for here s a power Of greater glory and supremacy Obscures thy being , here sits enthroniz'd The sparkling diamond , whose bright reflection Casts such a splendor on these other Iemmes , Mongst which he so maiesticall appeares , A flash of fire and Lightfoote ascends like a spirit . As if — now my good angels guard me . Li. Melior vigilantia somno . Stand not amaz'd good man , for what appeares shall adde to thy content , be voide of feares , I am the shaddow of rich Kingly Cressus , Sent by his greatnes from the lower world To make thee mighty , and to sway on earth By thy aboundant store , as he himselfe doth In Elizium ; how he raigneth there , His shaddow will vnfold , giue thou then eare . In Vnder-ayre where faire Elizum stands Beyond the riuer stiled Acharon , He hath a Castle built of Adamant ; Not fram'd by vaine enchauntment , but there fixt , By the all burning hands of warlike spirits , Whose windowes are compos'd of purest christall , And deckt within with orientall pearles : There the great spirit of Cressus royall selfe , Keepes his abode in ioyous happinesse ; He is not tortur'd there as Poets feine With molten gold and sulphrie flames of fire , Or any such molesting perturbation ; But there reputed as a demy-god , Feasting with Pluto and his Proserpine , Night after night with all delicious cates , With greater glory then seauen kingdomes states . Now further know the cause of my appearance , The kingly Cressus hauing by fames trumpe , Heard that thy lov'd desires stand affected To the obtaining of aboundant wealth , Sends me his shade , thus much to signifie , That if thou wilt become famous on earth , Hee le giue to thee euen more then infinite ; And after death with him thou shalt pertake The rare delights beyond the stigian lake . Hog .

Great Cressus shaddow may dispose of me to what hee pleaseth .

Li. So speakes obediency . For which i le raise thy lowly thoughts as high , As Cressus were in his mortality ; Stand then vndaunted whil'st I raise those spirits , By whose laborious taske and industry , Thy treasure shall abound and multiply . Ascend Ascarion thou that art a powerfull spirit and dost conuert siluer to gold , I say ascend and one me Cresus shade attend to worke the pleasure of his will . the Player appeares . Pla. What would then Cresus list to fill Some mortals cofers vp with gold , Chaunging the siluer it doth hold : By that pure mettle if t be so , By the infernall gates I sweare , Where Radamanth doth dominere : By Cresus name and by his castle , Where winter nights he keepeth wassell ; By Demogorgon and the fates , And by all these low country states ; That after knowledge of thy minde , Ascarion like the swift pac't winde , Will flye to finish thy commaund . Li. Take then this siluer out of hand , And beare it to the Riuer Tagus , Beyond th' aboade of Archi Magus ; Whose golden sands vpon it cast , Transforme it into gold at last : Which being effected straight retourne , And suddaine too , or I will spurne This truncke of thine into the pit , Where all the hellish furies sit , Scratching their eyes out quicke begon . Pla.

Swifter in course then doth the Sunne .

Exit player . Li. How fair'st thou mortall be ? not terrified At these infernall motions , know that shortly Great Cressus ghost shall in the loue he beares thee , Giue thee sufficient power by thy owne worth , To raise such spirits . Hog . Cressus is much too liberall in his fauour , To one so farre desertlesse as poore Hog . Li Poore Hogge , O speake not that word poore againe , Least the whole apsetree of Cressus bounty , Crackt into shiuers ouerthrow thy fortunes , For he abhorres the name of pouerty , And will grow sicke to heare it spoke by those . Whom he intends to raise ; but see the twi-light Posteth before the Charriot of the Sunne , Brings word of his approch : We must be suddaine , and with speed raise vp The spirit Bazan : that can straight transforme Gold into pearle ; be still and circumspect . Bazon ascend vp from the treasure of Pluto , where thou did'st at pleasure metamorphise all his gold into pearle , which boue a thousand folde exceeds the valew , quickly rise to Cresus shade , who hath a prise to be performed by thy strength . Bazon ascends . Bazon I am no Fencer , yet at length From Plutoes presence and the Hall , Where Proserpine keepes festiuall , I 'me hether come and now I see , To what intent' Ime rai'sd by thee ; It is to make that mortall rich , That at his fame mens eares may itch ; When they doe heare but of his store . He hath one daughter and no more ; Which all the lower powers decree , Shee to one Wealthy wedded be ; By which coniunction there shall spring , Young heires to Hogge whereon to fling : His masse of treasure when a dies , Thus Bazon truely prophesies : But come my taske I long to reare , His fame aboue the Hemy-spheare . Li. Take then the gould which here doth lie . And quicke retourne it by and by ; All in choise pearle whither to goe , I need not tell you , for you know . Ho.

Indeed I doe , and Hogge shall finde it so .

Exit Had. Li. Now mortall there is nothing doth remaine , Twixt thee and thine aboundance , onely this Turne thy eyes westward , for from thence appeareth Ascarion with thy gould , which hauing brought And at thy foote surrendred , make obeysance ; Then turne about and fix thy tapers westward , From whence great Bazon brings thy orient pearle ; Who 'le lay it at thy feet much like the former . Hog .

Then I must make to him obeysance thus .

Li. Why so , in meane time Cressus shade will rest Vpon thy bed , but aboue all take heed , You suffer not your eies to stray aside , From the direct point I haue set thee at : For though the spirit do delay the time , And not retourne your treasure speedily . Hog . Let the losse light on me , if I neglect I ouerslip what Cressus suit commaunde . Lo.

So now practise standing , though it be nothing agreeable to your hogs age , let me see among these writings is my nephew Haddits mortgage ; but in taking that it may breed suspect on vs , wherefore this boxe of Iewels will stand farre better and let that alone , it is now breake of day , and nere by this the marriage is confirm'd betwixt my Cosen & great Cressus friends daughter here , whom I would now leaue to his most weighty cogitation

So gentle sir adue , time not permits To heare those passions and those franticke fits ; Your subiect to when you shall find how true , Great Cressus shade hath made an asse of you . Hog .

Let me now ruminate to my selfe why Cressus should be so great a fauorer to me , & yet to what end should I desire to know I thinke it is sufficient , it is so , and I would a had beene so sooner , for he and his spirits would haue saued me much labour in the purchasing of wealth ; but then indeed it would haue beene the confusion of 2. or 3. Scriueners , which by my meanes haue beene properly rais'd : but now imagine this onely a tricke whereby I may be guld ; but how can that be ? are not my dores lockt , haue I not seene with my owne eyes the ascending of the spirits ? haue I not heard with my owne eares the inuocations wherewith they were rais'd ? could any but spirits appeare through so firme a floore as this is ? t is impossible : But harke , I heare the spirit Ascarion comming with my gould , O bountiful Cressus ; I le build a temple to thy mightinesse .

Enter young Lo. Welthy and Peter . We.

O Peter , how long haue we slept vpon the hogshead ?

Pe.

I thinke a dosen howers my Lord , and t is nothing , I le vndertake to sleepe sixteene , vpon the receipt of two cups of muskadine .

We.

I maruell what 's become of Haddit and Lighfoote ?

Pe.

Hang 'em flinchers they sluncke away as soone as they had druncke as much as they were able to carry , which no generous spirit would a done in deed .

We.

Yet I beleeue Had . had his part , for to my thinking the seller went round with him when a left vs , but are we come to a bed yet ? I must needs sleepe .

Pe.

Come softly by any meanes , for we are now vpon the threshold of my masters chamber , through which i le bring you to Mistris Rebeckaes lodging , giue me your hand and come very nicely .

Peter fals into the hole . We.

Where art Peter .

— Pe. — O oh o. We.

Where 's this noyse Peter canst tell ?

Hog ,

I heare the voice of my adopted sonne in law .

We.

Why Peter wilt not answere me ?

Pe.

O my Lord aboue , stand still , I am falne downe at least 30. fathome deepe , if you stand not still till I recouer and haue lighten a candle , y' are but a dead man .

Hog .

I am rob'd , I am vndone , I am deluded , whos 's in my chamber ?

We.

T is I , the Lord your sonne that shall be , vpon my honor I came not to rob you .

Hog .

I shall run mad , I shall run mad .

Wel.

Why then t is my fortune to be terrifide with madmen .

Enter Peter with a candle . Pe.

Where are you my Lord ?

Hog .

Here my Lady ? where are you rogue when theeues breake into my house ?

Pe.

Breaking my necke in your seruice a plague on t .

We.

But are you rob'd indeed father Hogge , of how much I praye ?

Hog .

Of all , of all ; see here , they haue left me nothing but 2. or 3. roles of parchment , here they came vp like spirits , & tooke my siluer , gold , and Iewels ; where s my daughter ?

Pe.

Shee s not in the house sir ? the streete doores are wide open .

We.

Nay t is no matter where shee is now ? she le scarce be worth a 1000. pound and that s but a taylors prise .

Ho.

Then you le not haue her sir ?

We.

No as I hope to liue in peace .

Hog .

Why bee 't so , bee 't so , confusion cannot come in a more fitter time on all of vs : O bountifull Cressus , how fine thy shaddow hath deuoured my substance .

Pe.

Good my Lord promise him to marry his daughter , or a will be mad presently , though you neuer intend to haue her .

We.

Well father Hogge , though you are vndone , your daughter shall not be , so long as a Lords can stand her in any stead : come you shall with me to my Lord and father , whose warrants wee will haue for the apprehending of all suspitious liues , and though the labour be infinite , you must consider your losse is so .

Hog .

Come , i le doe any thing to gaine my golde .

Pe.

Till which be had , my fare will be but cold .

Exeunt . Enter Haddit , Rob. Lightfoote , and Priest . Had.

Now Mr. Parson we will no further trouble you , and for the tying of our true loue knot , here s a small amends .

Prie. T is more then due sir , yet i le take it all , Should kindnesse be dispis'd , good will would fall . Vnto a lower ebbe , should we detest The gratefull giuers gift , Verissimo est . Had.

It 's true indeed , good morrow honest Parson .

Pe. Yet if you please , sir Iohn will backe surrender The ouerplus of what you now did tender . Ha.

O by no meanes , I pree thee friend , good-morrow .

Li Why if you please Sir Iohn to me restore , The ouerplus i le giue it to the poore . Pe. O pardon sir , for by our worships leaue , We ought to giue from whence we doe receaue . Had.

Why then to me sir Iohn .

Pri.

To all a kinde good morrow .

Exit Priest . Ha.

A most fine Vicar , there was no other meanes to be rid of him : but why are you so sad Rebecka ?

Re. To thinke in what estate my father is ? When he beholds that he is meerely guld . Had.

Nay be not grieu'd , for that which should rather giue you cause of content , for 't will be a meanes to make him abandon his auarice , and saue a soule almost incurable : but now to our owne affaires , this marriage of ours must not yet be known least it breed suspition , we will bring you Rebeck a vnto Atlas his house , whil'st we two goe vnto the old Lord Welthies , hauing some acquaintance with his sonne in law Carracus , who I vnderstand is there , where no question but we shall finde your father proclaiming his losse , thether you shall come some what after vs , as it were to seeke him , where I doubt not but so to order the matter , that I will receaue you as my wife , from his own hands .

Re.

May it so happy proue .

Li.

Amen say I , for should our last tricke be knowne , great Cressus shade would haue a coniured time on t .

Had.

T is true , his Castle of Addamant would scarce holde him : but come this will be good cause for laughter hereafter .

Then we le relate how this great bird was puld , Of his rich fethers , and most finely guld . Exeunt . Enter old Lo. Welthy with Car. Ma. and Albert . Lo. More welcome Carrucus , then friendly truce To a besieged Citty all distrest ; How early this glad morning are you come To make me happy , for pardon of your offence I 'ue giuen a blessing , which may heauen confirme , In trebble manner on your vertuous liues . And may our liues and duty daily striue , To be found worthy of that louing fauour , Which from your reuerent age we now receaue , Without desert , or merrit . Enter young Wel. Hogge & Peter . We. Roome for a desirer of Iustice , what my sister Maria ; Who thought to haue met you here ? Ma.

You may see brother , vnlook't for guests proofe often troublesome .

We.

Well , but is your husband there any quieter then a was ?

Ca.

Sir , I must desire you to forget all iniuries , if , in not being my selfe , I offered you any .

Alb.

I le see that peace concluded .

We.

Which I agree to , for patience is a vertue father Hogge .

Ho.

Was it you sonne that cride so loud for iustice ?

We.

Yes marry was it , and this the party to whome it appertaines .

Ho.

O my most honored lord I am vndone , rob'd this black night of all the wealth and treasure , which these many yeeres I haue howerly labored for .

Lo.

And who are those haue done this outrage to you ?

Ho.

Oh knew I that , I then my lord were happy .

Lo.

Come you for Iustice then , not knowing 'gainst whom the course of Iustice should extend it selfe ?

Nor yet suspect you none ? Ho.

None but the diuell .

We.

I thought a was a Cheater , ere since I heard two or three Templers sweare at dice the last Christmas , that the diuel had got all .

Enter Haddit and Lightfoote . Ha.

My kinde acquaintance . Ioy to thy good successe .

Ca.

Noble , and free-borne Haddit , welcome .

Li.

Mr. Hogge good-day .

Ho.

For I haue had a bad night on 't

Li.

Sicknesse is incident to age , what be the writings ready to be sealed , wee intreated last day .

Ho.

Yes I thinke they are , would the Scriuiner were paid for the making them .

Li.

A shal be so , though I doo te my selfe , is the mony put vp as I appointed ?

Ho.

Yes t is put vp , confusion cease the receiuers .

Li.

Heauen blesse vs all , what meane you sir ?

Ho. O sir , I was robb'd this night of all I had , My daughter to is lost , and I vndone . Li.

Marry , God forbid , after what manner I pray .

Ho. O to recount sir will breede more ruth , Then did the tale of that high Troian Duke , To the sad fated Carthagenian Queene . Ha.

What exclamations that ?

Li. What you will grieue at Coze , Your worshipfull friend M. Hogge is robb'd . Ha.

Rob'd , by whom or how ?

Li.

O there s the griefe , a knowes not whome to suspect .

Ha.

The feare of hell oretake them whatsoere they be : but where s your daughter , I hope she is safe .

Enter Re. Ho.

Thankes heauen , I see shee 's now so , where hast thou been my girle ?

Re.

Alas sir , carried by amazement , I know not where , pursu'd by the robbers forc't to fly as mad affright , through al the City streets to seek redresse , but that lay fast asleepe in all mens houses , nor would lend an eare to the distrest .

Ha. O heauy accident , but see you grieue too much , Being your daughter 's found , for th' other losse ; Since t is the will of heauen to giue and take , Value it as nothing , you haue yet sufficient To liue in blest content , had you no more But my small mortgage for your daughter here ; Whom I haue euer lov'd in deer'st affection , If so you please so much to fauour me , I will accept her spight of pouerty , And make her iointure of some store of land , Which by the losse of a good aged friend Late fell to me , what is t a match or no . Ho. It is . Then I le haue witnesse on 't , my lord and gent . Please you draw neere , to be here witnesses To a wisht contract , twixt this maid and I . Omnes

We all are willing .

Ho.

Then in the presence of you all , I giue my daughter freely to this gent. as wife , and to shew how much I stand affected to him for dowry with her , I doe backe restore his mortgag'd lands , and for their loues I vowe , euer hereafter to detest , renounce , loath and abhorre all slauish auarice :

Which doth ascend from hell , sent by the diuell , To be 'mongst men the actor of all euill . Om.

A blest conuersion .

Lo. A good far vnexpected , and now gentlemen , I do enuite you all to feast with me This happy day , that we may altogether Applaud his good successe , and let this day be spent , In sports and shewes with gladsome merriment : Come blest conuerted man wee le lead the way , As vnto heauen I hope we shall . Ho.

Heauen graunt we may .

Ca. Come my Maria and repentent friend , Wee three haue tasted worst of misery , Which now adde ioy to our felicity . Ha. We three are happy wee haue gain'd much wealth , And though we haue done it by a tricke of stealth , Yet all I trust are pleas'd , and will our ill acquite , Since it hath sau'd a soule was hells by right . We. To follow after then , our lot doth fall , Now rime it Peter . Pe.

A good night to all .

Exeunt omnes .

FINIS .