Arviragus and Philicia As it was acted at the Private House in Black-Fryers by his Majesties servants. The first and second part.

ARVIRAGVS AND PHILICIA . As it was acted at the Private House in Black-Fryers by his Majesties Servants . The first and second Part .

printer's device of John Norton junior, featuring a fleur-de-lis on a dotted background (McKerrow 267) IN DOMINO CONFIDO .

LONDON , Printed by JOHN NORTON , for Iohn Crooke , and Richard Sergier , and are to be sold at the Grey-hound in S. Pauls Church yard . 1639.

The Prologue . WEe promis'd you a new Play by our bill , And some dares promise us since ere 't is ill , Hard fate , prejudicat opinion thus , Make you lesse pleas'd , and needs must ruin us : Nor can our Poets have a heart to write , When their most weighty works you will find light , But this does with the ages Genius fit , Where still the lookers on claims all the wit , The silly writers justly stil'd , whose brains For you distill'd , skorne is their greatest gains : These tho they breath your Aire , injoyes your Sun. Hath equall parts , comparisons must shun With you their judges ; you have paid , are free , And like some judges still Condemners be ; Or else yee grieve , for to that end you came , Ill natures glorie in a Poets shame . This to the bold , and ignorant , but where ? Here 's none , none that beleeves he 's such I le sweare Since all then are discreet , or such would seeme , Nought but a generall pardon can redeeme The Authors judgement , fortified in this , By forcing all to marke what is amisse : Where by an humble and submissive way , The Prologue might please some , if not the Play . I some , t is true , and who hath yet pleasd all ? Who had that aime ; exprest his wit but small . There s enough said , those that can judge of playes Will finde as little to dislike , as praise .

ARVIRAGUS AND PHILICIA .

Enter SINATVS and ADRASTVS . ADRASTUS .

I Wonder much Sinatus that no messenger comes from th' Armie , and it so neere ; t is a great oversight in the present Generall t' bee so slow in giving intelligence , I was not wont t' doe so .

SINATUS .

T is true indeed Adrastus , for some of your Souldiers was alwaies running homeward ; either for feare or want of pay .

ADRASTUS .

Was that my fault , which feare in them , or necessity inforc ? ? I had do mony sent when 't was due .

SINATUS .

I thinke ye were indeed a month behind , but was not the Enemies Country open , scarce a troope of horse drawne into the field , but few of foote , and cou'd ye thinke of pay from home ? so thinke and gape after it , as in the expectation t' lose your opportunity : lie still , nay , suffer the enemie t'draw t'gether , and lodge betwixt you and this City ; even t' th ' danger of th' Princes person , and then steale hither t'complain your men forsooke yee .

ADRASTUS .

Did they not rise all in a mutinie ? what cou'd I doe ?

SINATUS .

Nay , you did well t' come , th' Gods bee ever prays'd for 't , too long yee were a comming , for ye came about the safer way ; but th' present Generall which your wisedome now finds fault with for slow intelligencer , necessity inforcing it , broke thorow that armie you avoyded , with a single troope , and with th' fiery bravery of his spirit soone thawd the ycie feares , that you their former Generall had frose about our souldiers hearts .

ADRASTUS .

Me Lord , ye have a priviledge to speake , yee know th' quall of your tongue , it wounds no man .

SINATUS .

Tho your Lordship hath exprest so little man in the discharge of your great employment , that you are safe where men are onely wounded , is 't in th' nature of a ●are , or fearefull Deare , a man may draw blood of your Honour .

ADRASTUS .

You quickly shud repent this snarling Sinatus , did I thinke this a fit time for private brauls .

SINATUS .

He that shud not repent of his sinnes till you found a fit time to fight , were in an ill case for certaine .

Enter the King and Prince reading letters . KING reads .

Royall Sir , your Enemies have tryed the force of your just Arms , and if not flye , retreat : your presence cannot but bring an entire Victorie , the honour of which is laid downe at your Royall feet by your servant and scholler in armes .

Arviragus .

GUI .

From me , Sir , were these glories ravish'd , in granting him the honour t'be your Generall against th' Danes , sure Arviragus in your sonne , and I some stranger to your blood ; o● so degenerate , that you beleeve I want courage , or judgment , t' reach , or execute your great designes , as well as he ; for t'beleeve his vertue of it selfe cood act such wonders , were t' forget your Glories won before he had a name , or interest in th' warre to my disgrace .

KING .

My sonne , be better temper'd , and yeeld as I did t'necessitie ; what wise , or loving father wood have sent his onely sonne into an Armie filld with discontent , and mutinie , where thou wert liker t'become a sacrifice to please their high swolne rage , than find obedience , without which , there 's no usuall way t'glory ? that Armie moves t'its owne Funerall , that charges th' enemie with hearts divided .

GUI .

Sir , can ye thinke my presence h●d not an equall power amongst your naturall Subjects , t'settle what was out of order ? small is t' comfort I shall find hereafter t'be their King , if heaven shall call you first , yet Arviragus , a stranger , hath a precedence in their loves .

KING .

Not in their loves , my sonne , I thinke not so , but in th' opinion of his fortune ; Victory still attending his most rash , and heady actions : five severall Battels hee hath won against our enemies , all ods of men or place unthought of , in his owne person acting wonders , as they call them ; but I thinking t'let th'armie see t' was their joynt valour , number of men , and ancient discipline , gaind frequent victories , and not their Generalls valour , in stead of Arviragus , sent as yee know , Adrastus .

GUI .

And all Sir , as you order'd it , turn'd t' his greater glory : but I shall never looke on him , but as a Basiliske , that killing quality ; wee must divide betwixt us , wee cannot both breathe in one aire , his glories poyson me to death .

KING .

My son , in thy desires , as well as blood , till this expression of thy thoughts thou wert not halfe so deare ; I was afeard th' outward friendships twixt you and Arviragus had beene made reall by your bringing up together , but now confirm'd in the opinion , and joying in thy just hatred to one so prejudiciall t' thy greatnesse : know , from thy carefull father , this Monster Giant Arviragus , that dwarfs our glories by his fatall growth , this sonne of honour , so they call him , no longer shall eclips thy splendour , but set in blood and ruine , and on his Tombe th' amased world shall read an Epitaph of foule ingratitude and treason .

GUI .

As how ? th' meanes t' this ?

KING .

Let it suffice t' know it when it is done , and reape th' proffit ; the trouble and the danger both be mine .

Enter EUGENIUS .

Th' newes ?

EUGENIUS .

Our Generall , Prince Arviragus returnes victorious , Th' Danes are fled back to there strengths by his sole valour overcome .

KING .

Eugenius wee beleeve thy valour and good conduct was equally availeable for us in this defeat , and one day thou mayst know how much wee pryse thee : Adrastus waite us in our private Chamber .

Exit . King Adrastus others . ADR .

I shall Sir .

GUI .

Sinatus here 's a glorious victorie attaind , and with small losse , Arviragus does so great service t' th ' state , that no reward can equall .

SIN .

Yer , Sir , there 's a reward will equall his deserts , and well become your intercession , and your fathers royall bountie , I meane his fathers principality ; I am a witnesse 't was promis'd if he returnd victorious .

GUI .

Promises made upon necessitie can binde no wise man t'performance . Besides , he from my fathers mercy had his being , all he can performe is duty , and cannot claime a recompence .

SIN .

Yet promises of Princes ( earthly Gods ) like those above , shood be performd for their owne truth and glory though not for our desert .

GUI .

But Sinatus if they please to forget a Promise , I shood not thinke him wise wood-force them to remember it .

SIN .

Force ill becomes a subject , but humble truth shud not offend .

GUI .

But if th' sense be proud and haughtie , 't is not th'humble sound of words that can excuse it : for know Sinatus t' thee I speake it that art a friend t' Arviragus , it will be dangerous for him but once t'thinke on that rash promise made by my father ; there must not bee another Prince of Pictland that my selfe , if I be worthy to bee my fathers heire .

SIN .

There 's none Sir , will dispute it .

GUI .

None dares .

SIN .

Not I , Sir : your pardon , if my freedome have offended in what I thought touch'd yours , and your royall fathers honor .

GUI .

Can any thing more prejudice our honor , than deminution of our power ?

SIN .

No power is strong or firme , that hath not Justice for its base , unlesse th' gods cou'd cease to be .

GUI .

One of their greatest attributes is power , and they delight t'see it exercis'd on earth , nor will I faile my part , if e're I come t' act their stroake of justice : why shud it light on me more then my father , who for prosperity in all his actions , is yet the wonder of the World ?

SIN .

May a remaine such , and you succeed unto his happinesse ; it is , and shall bee still my prayer : but Sir , my feares , if you doe things unjust , will not forsake me .

GUI .

Rather thy wish , than feare Sinatus ; hee that 's a friend t' Arviragus , I pronounce my enemie , if hee imbrace a thought of his fathers Principallity ; if not , I am his friend , as formerly , ready to grant him any other honor : this if you tell him , ye shall not displease me .

Exit . SIN .

O Arviragus , I foresee thy danger growing equall with thy glories : 't is strange that envie should bee the child of Vertue , that or felicitie is still one parent : but did a noble emulation fire this Princes blood , what brave effects , happy unto this state , wud follow ? where on the contrary , blood , and destruction will have , I feare , a mighty triumph : for Arviragus cannot but know his injuries , and his owne power t'right 'em , having entire possession of the souldiers hearts .

You Gods avert my feares , or let me be Clos'd in my Urne , e're th' effect I see . Exit . Enter KING , ADRASTUS . KING .

Thus Adrastus , thou seest a way to my security , and thy revenge , and that thou mayst be more confirm'd , I here pronounce him Traitour to me and to th'State , to quit thee from the guilt ; only strike sure , I meane make thy choise wisely , apt both thy instruments , and time for them t'act in .

AD .

Sir , feare not me , onely beleeve I not forget , tho the performance prove not sudden ; you know his strength and courage ; besides your wise advertisement injoynes me to be wary .

KING .

I commit the affaire wholly t'thy discretion , honest Adrastus .

ADRA .

Your Majestie much honours mee , above my merit .

Exit . KING .

I le sweare I doe , for thou art a base coward , slave , and he that is so , can have nor faith , nor honestie : yet fittest for the imployment I have given thee , as one that hath already hatred 'gainst Arviragus from th'disgrace his last atchievements stick upon thee , and th' antipathy betwixt their natures , both which will helpe t'free mee from suspition ; but I must adde another strength t'these . Who waits ? I gave command Sinatus should be sent for , is a yet come ?

LORD .

He waits without , Sir .

Exit . Enter SINATUS . KING .

Call him in .

Sinatus , let mee with thee rejoyce thou good old man , thy foster child , and my apt scholler , th'happie and oblieging Arviragus is with his victorious army close by the walls , leading in triumph the Danish Generall . I long till I inclose within these aged armes , that miracle of men , and make him great , as hee is good and glorious .

SIN .

O Sir , how like your Royall selfe these words expresse you , Heavens , let these teares of joy , draw downe a blessing on this gracious Prince , you powers , how will the perfect vision of your goodnesse ravish us , when these your substitutes by actions , just and noble , beget such joyes both t' themselves and us !

KING .

Rise , how wood th' act perform'd transport this honest foole , that is thus ravish'd with the proposition ? Sinatus to thy care I here commit th' charge of his just triumph in entring the Citie , let there not want a circumstance that may expresse his welcome , and our joy to see him .

SIN .

But Sir , I feare the Prince .

KING .

O doubt him not , t is we are King .

See all prepard .

Exit . Sinatus .

The glory Arviragus shall receive , will more encrease the Princes hate against him , if it be reall ; t is possible it may not be so , he might dissemble to sift my thoughts , and if a love him , as hee in younger yeares hath seem'd do all with an intent to save him from my anger . When Arviragus was a child , to flatter with the Lords of Pictland , he had his bringing up with my owne sonne and daughter , amongst them , there seem'd to bee so strict an amitie , that it displeased me not a little ; a broake that friendship not by force , but policy and might , thinking to over-reach them , cosen my selfe and they love yet each other ; but sure my feares are vaine , Guimantes can not so much degenerate from me his father , to love him that supplants , and renders him contemptible to all my subjects ,

That man does not deserve a prince name , That lets a subject live to share his fame . Th' gods themselves , Did I but feare their splendour darkned mine , Shood have no Priest , nor offering at their shrine . Enter GUIDERIUS , and ARVIRAGUS . ARVI .

My best Guiderius , this letter from th' Princesse which thou hast brought mee , containes within such various matter of joy and sorrow , I cannot but communicate it with thee , whose love and friendship hath been so usefull to me ; there thou shalt find assurance of a love so great and noble , that I must blush t'think I have done so little to deserve it ; but then againe she gives me notice of so unjust a hatred in her brother , that it begets my sorrow and amasement .

GUID .

It cannot be the Prince Guimanthes shud so reward your service done to him , as well as to his father .

AR .

Beleeve , as thou wou'dst doe th' sentence of an Oracle : comes it not from th'Princesse ? the time fits not , at night I 'le read it to thee . Goe now and bid Eugenius thy noble father advance the Troopes , and march in order with their prisoners , wee are close upon the Ports .

GUID .

I shall Sir .

Exit . AR .

So great a growth of vertue , and discretion in one so young shewes well whose son thou art ; whether Eugenius hath more engaged me by his acts in warre , or this his sonne aiding me in my love , is yet a doubt . Pardon me love , that I doe not give sentence on thy side ; wars glories does immediatly attend , but Hymens torches are not lighting yet .

Exit . Enter EUGENIUS , GUIDERIUS and other ; with the Generall , and other Captives , and Prisoners . They march halfe the Stage . Enter at the other doore , the KING , GUIMANTES , PHILICIA , ADRASTUS , and others .

Arviragus received by the King , crownd by the Princesse with a Garland , and so led off betwixt them .

Shout within . Manet GUIMANTES , and one other . GUI .

O my vext soule , must I endure this ? can the joy of ●revenge when acted , make satisfaction ? cou'd my just hatred , by spell , or incantation corrupt that wreath my officious sister crown'd him with , give it a poisonous qualitie , and kill him e're to morrowes Sunne ; yet were a still for me a proper marke of envy : what man is there can hope to bee immottall here ? a glorious death then is th'highest wee can aime at ; and that I feare , neither my fathers cunning , nor my hatred can deny this happie Arviragus . Th' tribute of th' peoples loves seald to him as his due , by th' permission of this triumph is not by any act of grace or policie to bee recovered , but they will pay it , tho he were extinct unto his memory : his fame 's now raisd above the reach of calumnie ; my fathers boasted weapon for Arviragus ruin , such tedious remedies ill fit th' desperatnesse of my disease , my honour 's wounded to th' death .

Let age rest on its proper helpe , and wound by art : Force , youth becomes ; this sword shall pierce his heart . Exit . Enter ARVIRAGUS , and GUIDERIUS . AR .

't is neere upon the time Guiderius , I would not have the Princesse come downe into th' Garden before us , it were as if a Deity shud wait the leasure of a mortall .

GUI .

My deare Lord and Cosen , you that are lovers are to familiar with the gods , and by that frequent similies touching on them , sully there exellence .

ARVI .

Not if we by th' beauty and perfections of th' Creature rayse up our thoughts to that more excellent from whence they have their being : but Sir I finde your cunning in taxing lovers , you wo'd remoove from me that jelousie you gave me by your last nights dream , When you so oft made mention of th' Princesse , and with such passion that if I were not very confident of her affection , I sho'd no longer trust you to visit her , least you supplanted me .

GUI .

I must confesse me Lord th' Prneesse Letter that you shewed me had in it such lively heat , such charming sweetnes , that since that time I have done nought but thinke on her and you , and that it seemes made me talke in my sleepe .

AR .

I doe beleeve it , for I know my joyes must needs bee thine .

GUID .

Or else I must not be my selfe , you are to me all that the gods can give man kinde to blesse him with on earth .

Enter 2 Murtherers . AR .

Which love when I forget my dearest Cosen , may these powers cease to take protection of me , a wretch become ungratefull to th' best of friends .

GUI .

What men are these ? they doe not watch us sure , how ever let s not enter now , but seeme as if we went away from th' garden dore .

Let s not loose this oppertunity , Adrastus will make us rich for ever .

Exit AR and GUID . 2.

Doe not dischargethe your Pistoll till you be close upon him , night shelters us .

Ex. Ambo . A Pistoll shot off within Enter one after him , ARVIRAGVS . AR .

Villain and traitour —

Wounds him — 1.

O I am justly punisht —

Dyes . AR .

My deare Guiderius , speake where art thou ?

Enter GVID . here Sir , are you safe ? AR .

Not hurt , nor you I hope .

GVID .

A scratch sir , with th' villains sword before he fled .

AR .

Where is your hurt ?

GVI .

T' is not worth speaking of , upon my hand , no more nor if I had cut my finger . But I beleeve to have staind my mayd'n sword in his best blood , I felt it pearce him .

AR .

This accident comes most unhappily to crosse my meeting with th'Princesse , nor can I be assurd th' cause of this bloody attempt , whether by accidence , or from designe .

GUID .

The Prince Guimantes cannot sure have a hand in this .

AR . O doe not think it , come let me bring you To my chamber . GUID .

How Sir , will you neglect to meet th'Princesse ?

AR .

I wud not , but your hurt ?

GUID .

My hurt ? wound mee no deeper by being a sharer of your discontent , in missing so great joyes as you expect .

AR .

I faine wud see you at my chamber drest .

GUID .

If I were in love I shud not be thus civill to a friend , and so uncivill to a Mistris ; th'Princesse cannot but ●xpect you , pray let us goe .

AR .

You shall not deare Guiderius , pray leave me .

GUID .

My heart misgives that some mis-fortune may fall out , pray let me wait upon you , my wound is nothing .

AR .

Leave me , or ye will make me jealous that ye are in love with Philicia , and for her sake , not mine , wud beare me company .

GUID .

This jesting to mee shall serve for earnest , since 't is a full assurance you wo'not have me go , farewell .

AR .

I shall not long be from you , keepe close this accident that chanc't , and so we may discover something that we know not .

GUID .

I shall obey , th'Gods protect you .

EX . Ambe . Enter PHILICIA . PHI .

Faint hearted Philicia , how canst thou be so timorous ? cannot th'thought of meeting him ( 'twixt whom and feare there 's an antipathie ) beget more confidence ? if I , as he hath often swore , possesse the valiant heart of Arviragus , cou'd I thus tremble ? a pistoll shot , but not at me ; clashing of swords , yet I was safe ; not , if my Arviragus were an actor , for then my heart may bleed in him ; that , that begets my feare : 't was neere the Garden wall , at our appointed time ; some minutes now are past , yet he 's not come ; from which sad circumstance I wish my reason did not force mee draw a likelyhood of such misfortune , that proving true , I shall no longer wish to have a being .

Oh , oh .

PHI .

Ye powers , save me from a dispaire , in which if I thus die , I shall blaspheme your justice , informe my doubtfull soule readie to take her flight , whose dying groanes these be : if it bee not my lovers , whisper it gently and restore my sense ; but if those killing accents came from Arviragus , speak then in thunder , and confound me and my sense for ever ,

Oh — oh — helpe — helpe —

PHI .

Ah mee , what shall I doe to ease my tortur'd soule ! doubt is a greater mischiefe than dispaire whilst it hath being ; Love be my guide , that I may be resolved , but how ? the key which I shood open this doore with , I sent by young Guiderius for Arviragus passage , there being none but that and my fathers for this Garden .

Enter ARIRAGUS , opens a doore .

Stay , flatter me not t'fast my joyes , sure th'doore opens , be true this once my senses ; and let it be my love , and tho you oft hereafter shall deceive me .

I forgive yee .

AR .

Madam ?

PHI .

O speake againe , that I may be assured .

AR . Why , fairest Mistris , doe ye thinke any other Can be so blest to meete you here but I ? PHI . O my deare servant , pardon these feares that rise From tendernesse of you ; I heard a pistoll shot , And men fight , sure one 's kill'd close by the Garden doore . AR .

Were you so soone come downe ?

PH● .

Ha! so soone , why , did you heare it ?

AR .

Yes , Madam , I did .

PHI .

But were not there , I hope ?

AR .

Not in th' bullets way , I thanke th'Gods , but doe not spend this happy opportunity that takes addition from th'danger past , in questioning my safetie , since you see me here ; where I must first upon my knee kisse this faire hand , that placed upon my head a wreath triumphant , th' vertue doubled from your touch , and what the gazing multitude did not permit to my discretion , th'placing it where it was onely due , yet here my soules devotion by my tongue proclaimes th' faire Philicia Conquerour of him whom she did crowne , in which submission , if she be but pleased , shee againe crownes her servant with happinesse above all earthly Monarchs .

PHI .

My dearest servant , that I meet you thus alone , gives you assurance of my love , and confidence of your cleere vertue , more than a thousand oaths , twixt you and mee . Th'Ceremoniall part of love is long since past , we loved so much when wee were children , before wee knew in words how to expresse a passion , that now after so many degrees , to serve our selves with language , or professions , were justly to beget a doubt wee did not love , at least not as we ought , or else were ignorant of one anothers passions ; which were a crime I hope we never shall be guiltie of .

AR .

Yet since , my dearest Mistris , nothing that s mortall but may receive additions in perfection , t is fit that we expresse a sense of their encrease : Wer 't but in thankfulnesse unto th' Gods , much more when those excelling graces by a particular application are made my blessings , shood I expresse a joy , nay rapture , when I look on my owne wants of merit , made capable of such a blessing only from my truth of love .

PHI .

O doe not arrogate , my dearest Arviragus , unto your selfe , that which most properly belongs unto our Sex to love the best , for so you call in question th'excellencie of the subject , from whence the passion springs , and that ( man ) is th' no●lest creature , the Gods and Nature long since have determin'd .

AR .

What long since was determin'd , binds not the present , since there is nothing permanent on earth ; but grant this priviledg to such who pleaded it , and by that call in question their proper merit : no generall rule but does admit of an exception , for tho you were not in the opinion of the world , as indeed you are excellent above mankind , yet may you be to me all that my fancie can propose , and I shud love ye at that rate .

PHI .

It seemes then that a transcendencie in love arise not so much from th'object that begets it , as from the apted puritie of that soule , and fancy where it is nourishd : if so , then certainly women love more than men , their fancie being equall , and th'disturbance of that fancie lesse , ( in my particular at least undoubted ) for whilest my dearest Arviragus thought often of affaires of State and stratagems in Warre ; I never had a thought but now to yeeld him mine , and conquer his most noble heart .

AR .

In which you have confer'd so great a blessing on your servant , that I shall not prophane th' powers , to say they cannot equall , nor add more than a confirmation : how shall I then confesse your merit lesse than mine , your power so great ?

PHI .

't is not my power deare servant , but your acceptation makes it so great a blessing .

AR .

't will be presumption to confesse this , yet it will withall approve the height of my affection , which we disputed of .

PHI .

't will approve it such as I doe glorie in , for you have spoke my thoughts as well as yours .

AR .

●ince then we have one soule ; why shud our bodies lon●er be at distance ?

PHI .

They shud not if I had my fathers power , what I can give is yours .

AR .

This faire soft hand , on which I take the boldnesse to print a zealous kisse , is yet denied me ; so , as I dare ●carce presume to aske it , least it shud shew too much ●elfe love .

Enter KING , ADRASTUS . PHI .

Ah me ! I feare we are betraied , there 's some with lights come from my chamber , sure 't is my father ; what will he thinke ?

AR .

Think that you love me , dearest Mistris , and not be angrie I must hope .

PHI .

But , deare servant , if it be possible , avoid his sight , as yet things are not ripe for a discovery ; my brother may be there too : and what mischiefe his hatred may beget , I tremble but to think on : your passage is free to th' dore : I 'le meet them .

AR .

Crosse Fate !

Not so much time allowed to bid farewell , Partings of lovers is earths greatest hell . Exit Arviragus . KING .

What daughter , doe ye use to walk so late ? or is this accident ? alone too ; none of your maids worthie to keep you company .

PHI .

Sometimes there 's none but wish to be alone , and this place , tho it be night , ( you know Sir ) is secure as my owne chamber .

KING .

Maids , they say , shud never bee alone , but when they pray .

PHI .

I sha'not lye Sir , to say I prayed since I came downe into this Garden , and doe so now , my love may not bee knowne .

KING .

Keepe some distance from us , wee 'l walk a turne .

PHI .

O , I feare .

KING .

Thou knowest how dearly I have loved thee , and doe professe my care of thee is such , that I doe wish I cou'd bestow on thee a Kingdome for thy dowrie , tho with the hazard of my life I purchast it : in recompence of all my care that 's past , and expectation of my future kindnesse ; nay , as thou dost expect my blessing , and fearest my curse , answer directly to what I shall aske thee .

PHI .

O I am ruin'd .

KING .

Why doest thou looke so pale , and shake so ?

PHI .

To heare you muster up these fearefull conjurations , yet know not to what they possibilie may tend .

KING .

Why doest thou tremble so ? bee more assur'd , I am thy father ; no enemy that comes to circumvent thee , this unaccustomed feare makes me beleeve thou hast some guilt , thou wudst not have me know : but I le not take th' more : Love .

PHI .

Ha ?

KING .

Love , and hate is that I come to question with thee of .

PHI .

With me ? who shud I hate or love more than my dutie binds me ?

KING .

't is of thy brothers love to Arviragus , his former love I meane , or present hate ; whether thou thinkst it only seeming , or beleevest it Reall ; I know thy brothers soule is open to thee , and free , to me he 's disguised : th' thought of this makes me conjure thee thus , that I may be assured , for from that knowledge will arise my safety and th' States , therefore upon my blessing speake truly thy thoughts .

PHI .

Then Sir , I dare confidently affirme my brother hates Arviragus more than he ever loved him ; but with what Justice I leave it to your Majestie , the ground of his dislike not being possibly other than th'great service hee hath done for you and him .

KING .

't was his ambition daughter , not affection made him so forward in our cause , e're long his Treasons will appeare .

PHI .

What Treasons ? I shall betray my selfe by passion .

KING .

Such as I did not thinke his youth , which was so full of goodnesse , cou'd ever have been poison'd with ; you shall know more hereafter .

PHI .

I know to much already .

KING .

In this assurance you have oblieg'd your father , daughter goe to your rest , I will to mine , and this is my neerest way to my chamber .

Exit Philicia . 1.

Stay Sir , here , not far from th'Garden dore , lies one dead , or asleep .

KING .

Let 's see , bring him hither , call for more lights : this man is murthered , the wounds bleed fresh .

AD .

T is he .

KING .

Strange , is not our Palace free from slaughter ? who durst doe this ?

Enter servants with lights , and one kild . 1.

Another , Sir , that we found dead hard by , and if I bee not mistaken , this was Adrastus servant .

ADRASTUS .

Ha , my servant ? 't is he unhappy wretch , it seems they quareld in drinke , or other waies , and so killd one th' other .

KING .

't is possible so , but not very likely , dispose their bodies , to morrow we 'l examin better ; had one of these been Arviragus , th' heavens had smil'd upon us , none cou'd have guest who did it , and wee had beene secure .

ADRASTUS .

Give me leave to wait upon you to your private chamber , there you shall know , who in all likelihood did murther these .

KING .

't is impossible you shud .

ADRASTUS .

You will not thinke so , when you know these very men I did appoint to dispatch Arviragu● .

KING .

Ha , these men ?

ADRASTUS .

Yes , Sir .

KING .

Were such slaves fit to be trusted , that wud attempt , and faile ?

ADRASTUS .

You see they have seal'd the intention with their blood , tho fortune favoured not .

KING .

Doe thou so too , effect what thou hast undertaken , and that with speed , or by th'Gods thou art like these .

The end of the first Act.

Enter SINATUS , EUGENIUS , ARVIRAGUS , and GUIDERIUS . AR .

Sinatus , I have so many obligations to you , that I dispaire of payment now ; especially since you perswade me to forget that I was the King of Pictland's son , which Kingdome by your Master is usurpt ; and tho I have with hourely hazard of my life , preserved his Crowne upon his head , I must not dare to urge th' promise which he so solemnly did make before th' Gods and men , to seat me on my fathers throne , if I return'd victorious .

SINATUS .

My dearest Lord , this is the summe of my advice ; which if you shall neglect , I feare most sad effects effects will follow , and so I leave you , least being observ'd , I suffer for my too much love .

ARVI .

Farewell kind foster-father .

SIN .

May th'Gods looke on you , and your Actions with a favourable aspect .

Exit Sinatus . AR .

Cozen Eugenius , what s your advise ? shall I not claime my double right of inheritance , and promise .

EUGENIUS .

Not whilest you are within th' tyrants reach , flye to th' army which is not yet disbanded , and then yee have power to make your owne conditions , they will receive you for their captaine , and move whither or how you please .

AR .

't is true Eugenius , I doe beleeve they wud , but 't were neither just , nor noble for mee to bee th' head to so rebellious a bodie : perswade those Souldiers , who under my command by frequent victories are become famous , to lose all they have won , by one infamous act ; what tho a be to me a tyrant , hee is yet their lawfull Prince , nor ought they to be Judges of his actions ; nor my deare Cosen , if the gods be pleas'd that justice shall take place , numbers are not considerable : some of the Picts , altho the most be slaved under the Saxon yoake , doe yet retaine minds worthy their Ancesters , and dare , to serve their Prince , dye full of wounds , rather than yeares : five hundred thus resolved , drawn but together to begin th'play , wud make th' tyrant , e're a yeare come round , find perjurie , and injustice lye heavie on his soule .

EUG .

Sir , bee but pleas'd to quit the Court , and shew your person , and designe unto your countrimen , and I dare promise twise that number in three dayes .

AR .

Necessity inforces me to leave th' Court , or live dishonorable here ; but love that tells me I cannot live but here : is love and honor opposite ? they are twins that in my soule strive for preheminence , and whilst they doe so raise it higher , honour thou hast o'recome by helpe of reason :

Which tells me love does live , tho honor raigne , But he whose honor yeelds to love , his honor 's slaine . EUG .

Speake Sir , are ye resolv'd ?

AR .

I am , only 't were fit , to cleere mee to th' world , I aske performance of that promise from th' King , which I am well assured he will not grant me .

EUG .

't will be dangerous .

AR .

Not at all , as I will move it , I have many friends in Court ; besides th'Army not being yet dissolv'd he dare not injure me ; this very night you shall take horse , about it streight , our time is short .

EUG .

Your stable's so well furnisht , one out of the City shall be safe enough .

Exit Eugenius . AR .

Guiderius , our enterprise can never prosper , unlesse I kisse the Princesse hand , and obtaine her leave , which she wud never grant , did she know all my designe , as she must doe in part .

GVID .

Your meeting must be in th' Garden , she dares not have you in her chamber , least some of her women shud know it .

AR .

Alas , I am a torment to her .

GUID .

How she wud chide you , did she heare ; you might as well have said , you are to me a trouble .

AR .

I dare not say so .

GUID .

Nor shud you think th' other ; I le know her houre when she wud have you come .

Exit Guid . AR .

Doe so , deere Guiderius .

Enter KING , and ADRASTUS , attendants . KING .

't was so , it cou'd be no other wayes , Arviragus kild them both : but I must smooth my brow ; tell me brave Arviragus , why we enjoy so little of your companie , and it so deare to us .

ARVI .

I shall be ever ready to receive and execute what you command me , Sir , but to importune you with frivolous discourse fits not a souldier : I have no businesse , Sir , but one , and that I hope I shall not need to put your Maestie in mind of .

Enter GUIMANTES . KING .

I know no sute ye moved me in , but when ye doe , ye are like to speed .

AR .

I cou'd have wishd the Prince not here , but now it must seeme feare , shud I not name it .

KING .

What was it Arviragus , you did move me in ?

AR .

I must not take , Sir , from your noblenesse to say I made a sute , you were royally pleas'd to promise , that you wud place me in my fathers principality , if I return'd victorious from the warre .

GUI .

Ha , place you on your fathers seate ? first free your selfe form servitude , before you be a Prince .

AR .

From servitude ? whose servant am I ; rather , whose slave ? for in that sense you speake it : 't is true , I have done service , kings service , commanded a brave army , laboured for victorie thorow sweat , and blood .

GUI .

And ye were crown'd for that , have triumpht , an honour farre above your merit , since that hath sweld you up so high , that ye forget those to whom you owe your being .

AR .

I owe my being to th'Gods .

GUI .

And to my father that preserv'd your life .

ARVI .

I must confesse to him my obligation 's great , but yet must take th' boldnesse to tell his sonne , hee spoke not in this straine , when I last undertooke the war : withall , that if I owe his father for a life , hee and his father both owe mee for the security of theirs , and of theit crown , which sate but tottering till I fastned it .

GUI .

Thy traitors head does so upon thy shoulders , or I renounce th' obedience of a sonne ; Sir , shall a live ?

KING .

My sonne we must not for a few rash words forget the worthy service he hath done us . Remember henceforth Arviragus this is our son , and heire to both our Kingdomes , and we shall studie to forget your present boldnesse .

AR .

And without study yee will forget your promise to mee for my fathers Kingdome .

KING .

If I doe not , sonne doe you assist me .

ARVI .

No Sir , let him forget vertue and all th' braverie of his younger yeares , and when he comes to raigne be old in mischiefe , rich in his peoples curse , when he hath bath'd them in a sea of blood .

GUI .

Thus I le begin then .

Offers to kill Arviragus , some draw some part . KING .

Treason , traytors .

AR .

If there be any here Sir , 't is your sonne , that acts your part , e're you are in your grave , condemning such to die that seeke your preservation .

KING .

I must dissemble I see th' whole Court does conspire with him : Guimantes ye were to rash , 't was an act neither becomming you a Prince , or dutious sonne , and know good Arviragus how e're we seeme before our son to be offended with your claime , we shall find time to make our promise good , only know this , that Princes in matters of this nature love not to be much urg'd ; son , if you wud have me to forget your error , doe you forget all that hath past betwixt you and Arviragus , you have been bred together from your child-hood , for shame now fall not out for trifles , I meane for words , which past , cou'd you , as I , forgive them , and forget as just nothing , lost in that aire of which they were framed .

AR .

Sir , I in all things shall obey .

KING .

Guimantes , give me your hand ?

GVI .

I must obey you Sir .

KING .

How I am joyed in this accord ; son give me your hand , and princely Arviragus yours ;

't is only home-divisions ruins states , Thus guarded I durst war against th'Fates . Enter PHILICIA , and GUIDERIUS . PHI . Oh my Guiderius , tho I cannot give a reason , Yet me thinks th' expectation of those joyes Are stronger in my soule than they had wont to Be , from which thoughts , which usually did throb , And beat with apprehension of I know not What danger , still when I was , as now , to meet My love , is light and jocund , but sure 't is neere Upon th' appointed time , whilst we doe think on Arviragus , we may seeme to have forgot him . GUID . Madam , I doe believe 't will be by that time You are at your chamber , and so downe into th' Private Garden . PHI . Call in my women then , and gentle youth , good night , Mayst thou be when e're thou lovest , as thou Endevor'st to make me , most happie . GUID . The wish is like your selfe , full of goodnesse ; yet Trust me Madam , I shall never love any Woman with so much passion , as I doe Prince Arviragus : but Madam , e're we part , permit An honor , which I perchance may never — PHI .

What never ?

GUID .

Child that I am , I was about to say , never receive againe .

PHI .

Guiderius , thou art troubled .

GUID .

Not I Madam .

PHI .

Thou art , th'teares stand in thy faire eyes ; what was the meaning of that intercepted , never , that with a sigh came from thee ?

GUID .

I was about to say , th' honor I receiv'd in kissing your princely hand I never could forget ; but ravish'd with th' touch , I raisd my thoughts unto those greater happinesses that Arviragus one day might receive , and from the sense of so great blessing to my Prince and friend , let fall those teares of Joy .

PHI .

Sure thou wudst be above what e're yet was known excellent in friendship ; but whilst I stay justly to praise thee , I may doe injury to him , whose worth and love makes thee so true a friend ; nay , lose the benefit of that I magnifie thee for . Where are ye Ladies ? once more good-night .

Exit Philicia . GUID .

May it prove such , for my presaging soule tells mee , 't will be th'last leave we shall ever take .

Exit . Enter ARVIRAGUS . AR .

But what are these to me ? women and children build on dreams , and fancies ; Shall I , whom reall dangers in their most horrid forms cou'd never fright , bee troubled at these nothings ?

An Owle shreeks .

Shreek on , and fright some thiefe , or bloody murtherer , whose conscience is black , and apted for these apprehensions ; not guilty blood does clog , or staine my soule , all was in rightfull warre that e're I shed , and yet it was a Tyrant's will guided my sword ; 'gainst whom ? Soft , sure my nose bleeds , if any , this must bee to mee a fatall warning , since never till this minute did it bleed before ; and sure this my owne proper blood now dropping from me , informs that I shed some bloud of my owne subjects , and even of sueh as bravely fought for liberty against a Tyrant . Pardon you Powers , I shortly shall redeem that errour of my child-hood , for restoring of my captiv'd country .

I am now just at th' place , fatall to those that did assaile me ; 't is worth my care , and preparation , tho not my feare ; I need no other wound , but th' sad parting from my deare Mistris .

Enter ARVIRAGUS and PHILICIA . AR .

Madam , you still prevent me , and your owne appointed times ; yet 't is but like your other gracious favours , in every act causing addition to that love , which I believed compleat , but here , and in celestiall bodies , my love and admiration rise higher , as I increase in knowledg of your excellence , and love to me .

PHI .

My love to you , fortune , my dearest servant , hath yet been wanting , in an occasion wherin I might expresse what I wud doe for you .

AR .

Take heed , you doe complain too soone , th' occasion is too neere , and fierce necessity compells me with an abruptnesse , bordering on incivility , to beg an answer to that sute I scarce had moved , when we were interrupted by your fathers comming ; to think you did not understand me , were but to call in question th'intelligene our truly loving soules have held so long .

PHI .

T is true , I did , 't was a contract that you meant , I le name it plainly for you ; I dare as boldly speak my thoughts to you , as I dare think them . Let ceremonious lovers , that with strange hyperbolicall expressions seek to endeare each other , be more in heart , than in their tongues , mine neither shall come short , nor yet exceed what my soule feels : I love thee , noble Arviragus , equall with my self ; but yet lesse than mine honour , which by a privat contract needs must suffer .

AR .

Deare mistris , be not offended , that with a soule as free I speak my thoughts ; did I believe this your refusall grew not from an opinion , that e're long your fathers liking might be won to crown your wishes , I shud not know which way to find a cure for th' deep wound that you have given men , nor shall I for mine owne sake wish to live after this houre , when I shall let you know the cause that makes me presse this grant if yee shall then refuse it .

PHI .

Altho I feare to bid you , name it .

AR .

What you perhaps may have suspected in part be pleasd to know for certaine , there 's no time , nor place where I can count my self secure ; Danger , and of all kinds circles me round , both force and policy are set on work ; your brothers malice hath prevaild , poyson'd your fathers soule with foule ingratitude , within whose smiles I read certain destruction , which by th'Gods I am commanded to prevent by flight , least I shud force them be unjust , or tempt them by a miracle to save my life , this minute that I kneele and beg your licence to depart , 't is not unlike I may bee pierst thorow with a bullet , for there are spies upon me , nor shall their execution need if you deny th'blessing of your plighted faith : that curse will strike me dead .

PHI .

Rise , rise Arviragus .

AR .

Not till you grant my suit .

PHI .

How can I without breach of dutie ?

AR .

How can I live then removed from you in person , and wanting th' great assurance of your love ?

GUI .

Can you suspect my faith ?

PHI .

If I did so suspect your faith , I shud not thus beg th'engangement of it , but I may doubt your love equals nor mine , since you deny me to make me blest by an assurance .

PHI .

The love you injure thus is made apparent most in this refusall , let such whose loves are tottering , and unstable , who have not vertue , and perfection for their grounds , seek aids , and ceremoniall bands to hold them firme ; mine is a love , as fixt as are thy vertues , which does admit no possibility of change .

AR .

But if your father shall dispose your person to another , what then becomes of all this glorious boast of love , and constancie ? think not to say , you ever will bee mine in soule : th' Gods that joyn'd that and the bodie , aswell allow selfe-murther , as these to have a separation after marriage .

PHI .

I cou'd not pardon this so low a thought , but that th' Injurie does more reflect upon your selfe than me ; since you professe you love her , that you yet beleeve so worthlesse ; but to th' purpose , my soule tells me your stay is dangerous ; th' Gods and Nature both com●and wee shud not marry 'gainst our parents will , yet that does not approve , that wee of force must marry whom th●y please , tho both shew disobedience , yet th' last hath many excuses , one that th'parents dares not but accept of , devotion to the service of the Gods ; but if this prove my fate , I wud not for a world lose the glory of my sufferings ; were I contracted yours , to die , rather than marry any other . An honest milk maid wud with joy performe as much for a rude shepheard , but to stand free from any other band , than that of love , which is so often , and so easily broak by vicious soules , and yet continue constant , were an act worthy the daughter of a King , and mistris to the noble Arviragus .

AR .

Upon my knee I thank yee more for this refusall , than ●ad you granted ; yee have rectified my soule , letting me see the beauties of your owne , nor had assurance suted with my doubtfull fortune ; since not your husband , yet as your servant , grant some favour , not that by it I may remember you , but as a charm to shield me from all dangers .

PHI .

Then we must part , here take this bracelet , give me that ring , I le seale my letters with it ; this , and our usuall character shall only bee of faith betwixt us : but in what Country doe ye mean to live , until these storms blow over ?

AR .

There 's nothing can allay these storms , but my heart blood .

PHI .

I dare not think upon my misery , it will o'rewhelme me with a sorrow not to be borne ; ye doe not tell mee where you meane to remaine , or how I shall send to ye .

AR .

May I not be pardon'd now , ye shall have notice quickly where I am .

PHI .

What countrie ?

AR .

That 's it I wud conceale .

PHI .

How , conceale from me ?

Takes our a letter . AR .

't was well I did prepare for this , my dearest Mistris , it now drawes towards morning , and young Guiderius with a friend or two , waits with my horse without the Ports ; 't is not consideration of my danger , so much as theirs , leaves me the use of memorie to tell me what I have to doe , for I for ever cou'd remaine here : bee pleasd when I am gone , to read this paper ; that will inform you all that I intend .

PHI .

May I not know it now ?

AR .

Build on your servant , faith 't is not fit ye shud : O dearest Mistris , can I live , and leave you thus , since from our infancy we have grown up together ?

PHI .

Shall we ever meet againe ?

AR .

I hope we shall .

PHI .

It was but faintly spoke , there was no faith in 't ; Oh my sad heart !

AR .

Am I a man , a souldier , yet play the woman thus ? not to be touchd at such a parting , were to be more insensible than a rock , or Tygres , that yet pity their own distresse : drop faster ye beloved teares , like those shed for our crimes , this shame to man-hood is my height of glorie .

PHI .

O cruell farewell we shall never meet againe .

The end of the second Act.

Enter KING . KING .

A Dies by poison , 't is most convenient so , both for th'acting , and concealment , there 's a charme in his manly looks , or glorious name , that will deter , and daunt the boldest that shall undertake by force to kill him ; no , he is a son of Mars , and by a marshall hand , or weapon cannot die , but in the field unto his fathers glory : poison must doe it , th'instrument's Adrastus , ingag'd already in my plots , whose immediate care in this performance may redeeme his former failing by his servants .

Enter SINATUS . SIN .

Pardon dread Soveraigne , that I presse on your retirements , yet th'importance of th' affaire may well excuse a servant bound by oath to make discoverie , of what hee feares may touch upon his masters life , or honor .

KING .

Ha , my selfe , or honor , speak wherin ?

SIN .

With all speed possible hast to the Campe , and by your presence there confirm the souldiers loyalties , which else may faile .

KING .

Why are they discontented ? have I not taken order for their pay , and to the chiefe Commanders given rich rewards ?

SIN .

Ye have given indeed to all , and to their Generall , th' much loved Arviragus , a triumph but in mockery , ● he I feare receives it , since you deny his fathers Principality ; cou'd ye beleeve a spirit like to his wud bea● those scorns the Prince did put upon him ? my feare perswades mee hee is either fled already , or does it tend it ; and whether shud hee goe but to the Army not yet disbanded ? once there , hee 'l force yee yeel● what he desires ; and what can be to you of more dishonour ? Justice , and wisdome are th' essentiall parts o● government , and you from this will seeme in both defective .

KING .

If this be true , as sure it is , there will bee danger o● my person in the Campe opposed 'gainst one they lov● so much ; the credit of Sinatus person , with my authority , will bee of equall vertue . Sinatus , to witnesse my beliefe to what I grieve at for Arviragus sake , his dangerous impatience , and unkind , unwise revolt , here take this ring , and with it power , as if my selfe were present ; dispose the Army so , as neither my person , nor my honour perish ; I doe commit both to thy faith ; and wisdome , and if thou find the much mistaken youth ▪ tell him I take it ill , that he beleeves my sonne governs as King , I yet alive ; for did a not , a wud have rested on my Royall word , and not have forc'd mee by this rashnesse to approve that for justice in my sonne Guimantes , which I was resolved to punish , as malicious ingratitude ; let thy owne hast witnesse how great thou thinkst the danger .

SIN .

I flye to serve my Prince , and save my friend .

Exit . KING .

If Arviragus shall reach the Armie before hee can ●e there , yet will Sinatus presence lessen his authority , ●t least slacken his fiercenesse , and give us time to arme ●esides .

Enter GUIMANTES . GUI .

● read amazement , and distraction in your Royall brow , that Sir's the newes ?

KING .

The worst of ills , losse and dishonor ; were mighty Jove ●ffended , his dreadfull amr strercht forth , in his fier●est bolt wrapt up in thunder , and that I knew he aim'd ●t my head , it wud not strike my heart with halfe that ●error , not when the lightning sing'd my browes , as ●ow to know th'injur'd , and fierce Arviragus is escap'd ; me thinks I see him in th' head of all his Troope , his ●een sword drawn , whose brightnesse hee hath vowed ●o change into a crimson hew , with blood of perjur'd , ●nd ungratefull Princes ; and what thy pride and malice wud not allow unto his merit , his fathers petty Kingdome , shall now be multiplied by conquest on our soile , ●ill that bee thought from him a recompence but for a private captaine .

GUI .

My pride and malice ? you were not rasher in making him that promise of his fathers Crown , that resolute to break it when you had done ; why am I taxt then with your double fault ? had ye given way , I had nayl'd him to th' earth before your face : now ye perceive th' uncertaintie of policie compared with force ; you feard the mutinous people , that was our losse , which ●●senesse when I am guilty of , let mee forget my birth and hope .

KING .

If e're you live my yeares , you 'l know the common people are not to be contemn'd ; nor shud a wise prevention of discontent be accounted feare : but to th' present , what 's past cannot be now recall'd , what means have we to make resistance against this fury ? let us consider that , and not , like women , scold our selves into a greater disorder .

GUI .

Why did ye not , wing'd with necessitie , haste to th'army , when first ye heard it ?

KING .

And so perhaps have put my selfe in Arviragus power , if he were there before me .

GUI .

Yet ye might have oppos'd me to that hazard , necessity inforcing , without a taxe .

KING .

I rather chose to send faithfull Sinatus , one that the souldiers reverence much , and who did to me discover th' flight of Arviragus .

GUI .

Wud I trust him , th' only friend to Arviragus ? ye are abused in all , either th' Traitor is not fled , or if a be , then is Sinatus a confederate , and they have wrought upon your timorous nature , and gain'd a power to worke our over-ruin .

KING .

Fon 〈…〉 y , how canst thou think thy self so far superior in thy judgment , yet seest th'colour of these hairs ? consider my active life , and industrie , begetting feare , and reverence , not only from my subjects , but all the neighbour Princes : no act of consequence yet ever undertaken by me , either in war or peace , but had a happy issue ; how dar'st thou then presume to taxe , as void of reason , a Counsell which 〈…〉 way can better .

GUI .

My passion Sir , made me forgetfull of my dutie .

KING .

No , no , henceforth manage your owne affaires , th'kingdome's yours , at least you gape for 't , counting me in my ●otage , unfit to govern now ; doe you redresse what is ●misse , bring in this rebell by your wisdome , or your ●ower , then I shall think you fit to be my tutor .

GUI .

Tho Sir , I no waies dare presume to such a thought to ●utor you , yet pardon me to say I dare ingage my honor , ●ive me but power , to bring you back this traytor dead , or alive .

KING .

● feare he is too strong and politique for you to cope with .

GUI .

Sir , on my knees I beg the honor , grant me the title of ●our Generall , and I will cease to be your son , or bring ●dditions to your glory ; why will you Sir for ever ●eep me from the souldiers knowledg ? if so , take back ●his sword , to me a mockerie , send for a gowne , and let ●e enter orders , or else become a Doctor of the Laws : ●o be a Prince , and yet not capable to lead an army , is to ●e wanting of the noblest part of government , obnoxious to the scorn and injuries both of my own , and strangers .

KING .

Be master of your wish , goe , and with speed prepare ●ou for the war .

GUI .

Now you are my most gracious father .

KING .

The thanks belong unto necessity , and not my wil , which wud for ever have kept thee ignorant of warre , thy spirit being so fierie , impatient of delayes , which as I grow in yeares , may prompt thee to undermine my power at least , if not my life , and both I wud have end together .

Enter one .

The newes , speake , and from whom ?

From Pictland , Sir , there they are up in armes .

KING .

Who is Leader ?

Lord Eugenius .

KING .

Eugenius , what numbers are they ?

A thousand strong , but doe the actions of ten thousand : upon the way I met Prince Arviragus , from expectation of whose assistance they did begin th' enterprise .

KING .

Didst thou meet the Traytor , and let him scape ? hang up this slave .

Alas , my Lord , durst I oppose him ?

KING . Thou shalt immediatly oppose an enemie more Terrible , death ; and thou shalt meet him , by Whom Caesar , and great Alexander were O'recome : away and hang him streight ; so may All traitour cowards , that for feare of death Avoid an enemy , meet death upon a gallowes . Ex. Enter ARVIRAGUS , EUGENIUS , GUIDERIUS , and other Captains . AR .

My noble Cosen , and you my faithfull friends , true lovers of your Prince , and Countries liberty ; what you have done alreadie , is a brave Omen to our great designe ; the City you have gain'd will bee a sure retreat , if fortune frowne , as oft she does , to whet the courages of those shee hath adopted for her favorites ; even Caesar sometimes had a foile , but rise with greater courage , and at last attain'd the wreath triumphant .

EVG .

There 's none are truly wise , and valiant , that are not stil prepared for other fortune ; but how are you resolved to prosecute th' war ? will ye lay siege to th'strong townes , or take the smaller villages , and so remove from place to place , till you increase your numbers .

AR .

Neither I deare cosen , I know by this there is an army marching towards us , which I will meet with one of our three thousand , you with th' other two shall summon such townes as ye beleeve stand best affected to us , I make no doubt divers will yeeld , and as ye prosper , or diminish , let mee have notice by trusted Messengers .

EVG .

But why Sir , will you endanger your person with so small numbers , on the safety of which rest all our happinesse ? at least take you two ports , and leave me one , I daily shall encrease my troopes .

AR .

And doe ye thinke I shall not ? besides I know these souldiers I have commanded will fight against me without hearts ; I feare nothing so much , as they will all revolt , and take away the glory of my victory : the Moone shall no sooner be up , but I will march toward the enemy .

GUID .

Be pleasd Sir , I may wait upon you .

AR .

Guiderius I will not part you from so good a tutor in the warre , besides I will not venture both our Persons in one army : if I miscarry , for yet I have no son , bee thou my heire to all I can pretend to , only by glorious warre revenge my injuries , and yeeld this Countrie , what I doe faile in purchasing , freedome from Saxon slaverie , and make the Pictish Kingdome once againe considerable to all the Princes of this Iland .

GUID .

O Sir , this gift is like your selfe , full of that royall bountious inheritance in your soule , but yet to mee it beares no value : can any blessing rise to me out of your ruin ? no Sir , I must not leave you ; the aire , tho ne're so cleare , is poyson if you breath not in it , nor meat , nor sleep can nourish , wanting your company ; I doe beseech your highnesse leave me not behind , unlesse you wud expresse I am a trouble to you .

AR .

Oh my best friend , speake not a thing so harsh .

GVID .

You doe Sir , what ye wud not have me speake , the greatest of all cruelties in leaving me behind .

EUG .

Sonne , if it be the Princes pleasure , I much desire stay not out of fondnesse , tho I love you as much as any father does ; but that by you I may send letters to him of our proceedings , and monies which yet are wanting the sinewes of the warre ; not have you seen your mother , or your sister yet , who pines with griefe , not having seene you this seven yeares past , having remaind , during these warres in Pictland .

AR .

Guiderius , If ye desire to obliege me , refuse not a sute so just , made by a father that shud command ; the Moone will sure be up before we shal take order for the troops : let all the Commanders bee call'd straight to my Tent .

GVI .

My Lord .

AR .

O Guiderius now and onely now you show your love to me is fondnesse , come I will give thee many reasons for thy stay .

GUID .

Tho they may come from your lipps such , they will have lost their force before they reach my eares ; ther 's nothing but the merit of obedience to my Prince can save me from an unsufferable greefe for your unkindnesse

Ex. Omnes . Enter GVIMANTES , SINATVS , Captaines and Souldiers GUI .

Lay hands on that old traytor , lest in the Battell he shoud forsake us , and draw more away with him , and let him presently be put to death .

SIN .

Thanks Prince , pay thy fathers old servants debts but thus , and thou shalt soone grow rich in hatred .

CAP .

Me Lord , the Souldiers neere will endure to see it .

GUI .

Ha , the Souldiers neere endure to see it ?

CAP .

I am confident ther 's none will execute it .

GUI .

I am confident e'en he that doubts shall performe it : doe 't thy selfe , or by the gods I 'le bee thy executioner

CAP .

Then Sir , you must .

GUI .

Traytor , and shall .

Sinatus receives the blow , the Prince makes at the Captaine . SIN .

't was meant to me ; O hold , consider now your passion , which carries you to actions , even against your resolution ; I am wounded by your own hand , temper your rage , the souldiers hearts will soone be lost , nor doe I give this counsell , as I love your person , but your calling , my Prince , but most , your fathers Generall , on whose successe depends his own , and the Kingdomes safetie .

Enter SOVLDIER .

Arme — arme , the enemie appeares upon the rock above us , and into our quarter , my Lord , tumbles down great stones , that doe most fearfull execution , which unexpected accident hath put the Campe in great disorder .

GUI . Goe and prevent all further mischiefe , That rock did not appeare accessable to any Humane creature , sure they have borrowed Wings , or dropt out of the clouds . Enter a CAPTAIN . CAP .

Prepare Sir , for assault , th' enemie comes on a pace ; as if he meant to charge upon that quarter that lyes 〈◇〉 furthest from the Rocke , and will I feare be with us e're we can put our men in order .

GVI .

Hast each man to his command , and some that loves me dispatch that wretch out of the world , lest he shud glorie in our ruin .

1. SOVL .

I le undertake it Sir .

GVI .

Thanks Souldier .

Ex. omnes . Enter ARVIRAGUS and foure Captaines . AR .

Now , my brave friends , wee are come unto the place , where , if our hearts , and hands bee strong and valiant , the labour we have taken this night , passing these craggie mountaines , shall find reward ; riches , and glory , the meed of souldiers . Cleanthus , and his troope , have from the Rock perform'd their part , entred disorder , and amasement in the Campe , the harbinger of ruin to them , to us of victory . Let us not lose so faire advantage , charge home , my Country-men ; for my part , with my troope , I le pierce the armie thorow , and charge the Prince ; strike terrour in their souls by our first act , and ever after they will flie like sheepe before us . Ye powers ,

We not presume this of our selves , make you it known , The cause of the opprest is still your owne . Enter one of the Princes Captaines , and souldier . CAP .

There 's no resistance can bee made , th' Souldiers flie like sheepe before th' wolfe ; what shud wee doe but yeeld , and save our lives ? besides , the justice of his cause is such th' heavens takes part with him .

Exit . Enter ARVIRAGUS , SINATUS , CLEANTES , and others . AR .

O my deare friend , now is my victory compleat , that I have power to recompence in part , the many services that you have done me : from whom did you receive this wound ?

SINATUS .

From one that gave a deeper to my heart , by his unkindnesse .

AR .

Whose curs'd hand ?

SIN .

The Prince Guimantes , that now hath paied too dearly for his rashnesse ; I heare he is your prisoner , pray let him be nobly us'd .

AR .

Else it shall be your fault ; for to your charge I will commit him .

SINATUS .

To mine ? I am his subject , and fellow prisoner .

AR .

But ye are my friend , I dare trust you with my life , and more , with my prisoner .

SIN .

I shall doe what becomes me , if yee commit him to my care .

AR .

Bring in the Prince .

Enter GUIMANTES . GUI .

Art thou alive , false traytor , to glory in my disgrace ?

AR .

Me Lord , hee 's your servant , and to his care I doe commit your person .

GUI .

I rather wud be prisoner to a furie .

AR .

Hee 's Philicia's brother , and cannot be too nobly us'd : see th' Campe be well fortified , the watch carefully set , th' evening drawes on apace — Sinatus , command as freely , as our selfe , and let your charge find all fit liberty .

Arviragus , and Sinatus whisper . Enter a MESSENGER . MES .

Most gratious Prince .

AR .

From whence those letters ? —

reads . MES .

From Pictland , Sir .

AR .

Come here ; is Eugenius , and Guiderius , as I here am inform'd , revolted ?

MES .

Most certaine true .

AR .

Upon thy life let to man know this greatest of misfortune , ' twud discourage all my souldiers ; whether is vertue fled ? wait on us , and I will dispatch yee backe immediatly , we have no need of new supplies , wee are strong enough to meet a foe more daring .

Exit . GVI .

Now Sir , dare you yet boast your innocencie ? what is 't cou'd make you thus respected , but that ye confederate with him in his treasons ? Say , be plaine , are ye appointed this night to murder me ? if so , doe 't but manly , take me not in sleepe , that I may see my danger , and I le thanke thee ; for to beleeve lesse is intended me , yet thou appointed for my guard , were madnesse : I know thy wounds yet smarts , reveng 't , and strike home , for since I am dishonored in my first attempt , thus beaten by a handfull , and I Commander often times as many , life is to me no other thing than a burden .

SIN .

It seemes ye gathered from our whispering , what my Commission was , and I am glad I find you so prepared for death ; you see this arme , the blood ye drew must be requited , to kill a Prince is brave , an action of a transcendant straine ; by all that 's sacred I glory more in this occasion , than all that ever yet befell me , that I have power to set my princes son at libertie , tho with my owne most certaine ruin .

GUI .

Speak , what dost thou meane by this ?

SIN .

To set you free , or else my hopes deceive me .

GVI .

Thou dost amase me , I know this can be nothing but dissimulation ; some witty cruelty , to free me from my discontent , and then to kill mee when my hopes are raisd .

SIN .

Me Lord , I grieve your soule 's so-fram'd , you cannot better apprehend the glory of th'action I performe , and in reward of what I doe , be so good to your selfe , as I will show my selfe a faithfull subject in spight of all your injuries .

GVI .

Shall I beleeve this reall ?

SIN .

Me Lord ye may .

GVI .

Cou'd I beleeve thou didst intend this , yet where 's the means for my escape ?

GVI .

Cover'd with night , and cloath'd in th' habit of one of my servants , ye may escape to Stamfoard , there ye are secure :

GVI .

I scarcely can give faith thou meanest well .

SIN . How hardly can ill men beleeve the good , Which their corrupted soule ne're understood ? The end of the third Act.

Enter KING , GVIMANTES , ADRASTVS , and others . KING .

GUIMANTES , now ye find the advantage that experience gives , especially in warre ; had ye not mistrusted old Sinatus , yee had not beene so suddenly surpris'd into th' ruin of your army , and your owne danger ; what 's past , wee will forget , and now rejoyce that you are safe return'd . I must inform you how I did withdraw Eugenius , what the allurements were , assurance of a double marriage betwixt our children , that you shud marry with his daughter ; his sonne Guiderius with your sister , and that hee shud be King of Picts , but paying tribute to your selfe , and successours ; upon these hopes hee 's come , your taske is easie , onely make love to a faire Lady , which if ye like , ye may injoy ; if not , there may be means to break the match ; at first however show your selfe a passionate lover , and pay all the respects yee can imagine , to the father , who wee immediatly will send to warre against our enemy , fierce Arviragus , where let them ruin one the other .

GUI .

But how , Sir , dare you trust him , being so neere a kin to Arviragus your enemy , least they shud reconcile , and joyne against you , or that indeed this his revolt is only policie ?

KING .

Are not his sonne and daughter in my power ? it is impossible he shud abandon them unto my rage .

GUI .

I am instructed , and henceforth shall obey your wise counsell , tempering my feares , and rugged nature .

KING . Thou dost rejoyce me now : Learne to dissemble soone ; 't is an art , Without which , Kings ne're truly act their part . Enter EUGENIUS , and GUIDERIUS , and others .

Noble Eugenius , my brother I must call thee , fellow in arms besides , for many a dangerous skirmish have we been together .

EUG .

Your majestie much honours mee in the remembrance .

KING .

But now Eugenius th' youths grow arrogant , contemne the aged , and experienc'd souldier , trust upon strength and fortune , without discipline ; and , for a while , in some it hath prosper'd , to my griefe ; nor was 't a wonder , where their opposite was rash , and heady like themselves ; but now when Arviragus shall perceive Eugenius comes against him , Eugenius , without whom he scarcely ever yet perform'd an act considerable ; both he and his will be abashd , as knowing they have now to deale with one of courage equall , and experience farre abov● them

EUG .

Most royall Sir , I dare not promise victory , or slight an enemy so daring , whose souldiers are confirm'd in conquest : but if I doe not take the Garland from his brow , arm'd in the justice of your cause , which hath enlightned me to see my error , the wreath of death shall circle mine . In ten set battles , skirmishes not to bee numbred , I have had an active place , and been consisiderable to th' enemy , in six of these bore the supream command ; in all which , victory still smil'd upon mee , nor doe I feare her present frowne , for I will court her in the noblest way , perhaps cause a divorce 'twixt her , and Arviragus , to whom of late the world holds her wed .

GUI .

No hand , my noble father , so I am proud to call you , can be so fit to separate fortune , and Arviragus , as yours that joynd them , and if she yet can see true merit , or that th Gods , as it hath oft been said , forsake not brave endeavours , then I ( now yours ) so without envie shall have my stains wipt off , and prove an ample sharer in your glories .

EVG .

The honour I receive from all , must raise Eugenius to to doe something above himselfe ; I long Sir , till I be in action .

KING .

Necessitie inforces that which you desire , and all things doe attend you ; these Captains which I here present you , are such as ye may boldly trust , men well experienc'd , and full of courage .

EVG .

We shall be proud of such , and move by their advice .

CAP .

Me Lord , our greatest ambition shall bee to execute what you command , as knowing you a Master in th' art .

EVG .

Sir , I doe present you with this maid , deare to me , next my honour , more then my life ; my son , me Lord , I leave to● you , my wife I had brought to , but that a sudden sicknesse hindred : h●re yee have all my wealth , what I possesse besides , your royall favours have taught me to contemn as things below my present hopes , this good sword , and your kingly promise is the stocke on which I build my future happinesse .

KING .

This Lady , were she not deere to mee from the consideration of my son , yet hath her owne perfections power to make all places blest where shee remains .

GUI .

And for my charge , what can be dearer to me , than hee that is to marry with my sister , and whose acquaintance formerly hath made that neerenesse an addition to my joyes .

EVG .

't were Sir , in us presumption not to be o'recome , where you intend to conquer by your courtesie ; where the gods meane most to magnifie themselves , they chuse meane subjects to worke by , least they shud seeme to share their glory : so you , my Lord , by gracing us unworthy , need no wayes apprehend your bountie shud be censur'd as reward due to our merit : but that I may in act , the souldiers complement expresse my thanks . I take leave to kisse your royall hand .

KING .

Brother , you injure me in this , for tho you honor me to be my Generall , let the world know your merit , and my love create you Prince of Pictland , in that quality . I shall esteeme you .

EVG .

Most royall Sir , if my sword hold his temper I shal make good upon my enemies crest , that you have only power to give this title .

GVID .

Sir , let me crave your blessing , since you seeme you have determin'd I shud not beare you company .

EUG .

Th' heavens preserve you ; O my sweet Artemia , thou makest me shame my selfe , and beare thee company , no more , my dearest child , teares shed at parting boad misfortune ; me Lord , you see this tendernesse .

GUI .

And love it Sir , yet hope to dry them up from th' assurance of my faithfull service .

EVG .

Me Lord , unto your noble love I doe commend her , that modest innocence that nature hath bestowed , is all her ornament ; she wants th' usuall arts of Court to set her of .

CVI .

In which shee 's more beautifull than art can make her : nothing can give addition to the Lilly , or the Rose , their native colour and their sweetnesse gives their value ; art takes away from their perfection , as all praise must from her , who is above it .

GVID .

May my father conquer as fast in warre , as your civility must doe in peace .

KING .

Our wishes , and our prayers shall atend you .

Ex. omnes at severall doores , the Prince leads Artemia . Enter PHILICIA , and LADY . LADY .

Madam , Prince Guiderins , your servant , those honours now the King confers upon him , desires to kisse your hand .

PHI .

Ah mee ! there was a comfort once , but now hee 's false , or else he wud have forsooke his traytor father , and fled to Arviragus : were I a man , I wud not long remaine here , where I am prest each minute to the soule with slanders , and with curses that I heare pronounc'd against the man I love : Prince Guiderius my servant say ye ?

LADY .

Yes Madam , so the King desires all shud esteeme him .

PHI .

Bring him in , — how can a look upon me , or which way open his lips to such an end as love ? I wud not see him , but that 't will breed suspition in my father , since formerly I ever used him wth much freedome .

Enter GUIDERIUS . GUID .

With such devotion , as superstitious Moores salute the light , doe I behold those glorious eies , wanting whose happy influence , perpetuall night hath dwelt about me . Tho day break , 't is in clouds , a sullen morne , if I be not mistaken ; ( O wud I were ) can so faire browes threaten a storme ? or your cleare eyes dart forth such killing scornes ? yet I have armour to preserve me against these ; beleefe , that I am innocent from guilt , a soule more yours than ever . — Not speake , if you indeed desire to make my sudden death a witnesse of your power , it is the office of your tongue to perfect it , shewing where I am guiltie of a crime against your sacred selfe , and I shall quickly cease to have a being , rather one so miserable . — Not yet ? — 't is true , if in my selfe considered , I am not worthy you shud speake to me , yet free me from amasement , and let me know how you have lost that ornament of curtesie , that does so well become you , and all other ladies .

PHI .

't was not my want of curtesie so much as knowledge , who I was to speak to made me silent .

GV .

Am I so miserable to be thought a stranger to you ?

PH .

Are ye not so unto your selfe ? ye were Guiderius , friend to me , and Arviragus ; now I am told ye are a Prince , son to a trayter .

GV .

Madam , I must believe you cannot think him such , that is a friend , and servant to your father ; and for that honour is confer'd by him on me , I must confesse I glory in their acquisition , or being raised to such a height , as I am only dazled by your beauties , not your birth , which distance till this present , in my tortur'd bosome , smother'd a fire , the smoake scarsly appearing ; by which restraint it now shall break so gloriously forth , that all flames else shall show but faint , and sickly if compared .

PH .

Better obscure it still , the light of it will only show th' owners impudence , and falshood .

GU .

If it expresse truth , and respect to you , even falshood to all others will show glorious .

PH . Who shall reward that truth ? there 's none but Fooles undertake actions without hope of Recompence . GU .

The glory of my sufferings will prove reward , since 't is for one so excellent .

PHI .

And be assured that it shall be my only study to make them reall .

GV .

And I shall thanke ye even for that ; fortune does wrong my love to give me th' advantage of your fathers liking , nor will time permit my desert by suffering to obtaine ; I wud not have ye mine , ▪ till I had won your soule without all aids , spight of your cruell resolution ; for when ye shall consider my love beares date from the first minute that I saw you ; and that , when I believ'd it was to make you happy , I yielded my assistance to another ; you cannot but find some remorse , some sense of what I suffered , when Arviragus , for whose sake you think I am to be contemnd , owes you for thousand joyes , which he can never pay , nor sure does he intend it ; for wud he else make warre upon your father , seek his destruction , that preserv'd his life , and had within few daies seated him on his fathers throne .

PHI .

O yee powers !

GVID .

But he , carried away with mad ambition , and ingratitude , perhaps inconstancie , as now contemning what he did possesse , comes on towards this City , threatning destruction to the State , and in that generall , yours : for grant he loves ye , it is hard to thinke , yet may some rude hand , if he take the City , injure your person , and hee not able to revenge it ; true love wud bee more timorous , and lesse consider his own advantage .

PH .

Where didst thou gather all this venome ? not in Pictland , sure the masters vertue purges that , yet was it poisonous till thy father left it : but here , this Court , the mint of mischiefe , where slander , and ingratitude beare sway ; 't was heere thou learnd'st with an affronted brow to spot th' innocent , and cleanse the guiltie , but never more dare to approach this place , to touch my eare with any sound to th' disgrace of Arviragus ; or if I have no power to barre thee , know that his vertues have so charm'd my heart , that all and every sense shall become uselesse , or stand suspected as traytors to my peace , that shall convey ought to his prejudice .

GUID .

But Madam .

PHI .

Prethee speak not to me , thou art a creature so unworthie , that I am sicke to looke on thee , a living sepulcher th' art , in which is buried a vertuous youth , that I once lov'd , but now there 's nought but filth , and rottennesse of soule .

GUI .

Lady , I am not such unto your father , nor ( were you wise ) shud I appeare to you so hatefull .

PHI .

I am indeed a foole to move him thus , shud he discover to my father my affection to Arviragus , I have been too rash ; shall I beleeve it was possible you cou'd assist another , yet love your selfe ?

GUID .

Ha , I doe not like that question .

PHI .

't is true , I ever did observe my company was gratefull to you , but sure it was not love did cause it .

GUID .

Looke on your owne perfections , and from thence receive assurance .

PHI .

I must beleeve them without force , else why shud Arviragus prove unconstant ? but sure he is not such , pray leave me ; you have put such troubles in my mind no art can free me from .

GUID .

Nor me from thinking all your sex is false .

PHI .

Why doe ye stay ? an other time , perhaps , your company will not displease me .

GVID .

O Arviragus !

PHI .

Ha , that sigh was well dissembled , or it shewed a reall passion either to him , or mee ; you are sad Sir .

GUID .

Pardon me Madam .

PHI .

Trust me ye are , and I must share , what e're I seeme , I am not made of marble .

GVID .

Rather of Yee ; how wud a reall passion melt this Lady ? perhaps not move her , falsehood from sympathy rather begets a liking .

PHI .

Gentle Guiderius , for such I now againe beleeve thee , tell me the cause of this so sudden change ; thou shewest more sadnesse now , that I am kind , than when I was most harsh .

GVID .

Madam , ye are deceived , I am transported with a joy you under stand not .

PHI . I le sweare I understand it not , if this be joy ; Sure he hath all this time dissembled , prethee be Still thus sad , and I will fancie to my selfe a Cause that will delight me much . GVID .

What is it madam ?

PHI .

That I durst name it .

GVI .

Madam , ye may .

PH .

First promise faithfully to answer mee one question I shall aske .

GUI .

By th' gods I will , so ye will answer me another with like truth .

PH .

I vow to doe it .

GUI .

Speake then .

PH .

I aske you whom of all creatures ye love best ?

GUI .

I did not looke for this , pray aske some other , this you know already .

PH .

Take heed of perjury , I le no other question .

GUID .

Then know I never did , nor ever shall love any crealike Prince Arviragus .

PH .

't is plaine , he but dissembled , it seemes ye love not me then ?

GVID . Nor doe I wish you shud doe me , your love is too Unconstant to be a blessing unto any ; but who Is 't that shall next be made unhappy by your Falshood ? PH .

None , since I never loved , or can any , but Arviragus , to this the gods are witnesse : I see wee have dissembled both , and vertue was the motive ; but why shud you mistrust my faith ?

GUID .

To take a triall of my owne , for truth is Madam , I did ●ove you with some passion , and often have been promp●ed from my naturall inclination , but vertue , and my ●riendship to Prince Arviragus hath still o'recome , and I ● now ever shall , for if you prove unconstant , ye grow unworthy his affection , and consequently th'adoration which I pay you .

PH . Vertue in thee Guiderius shines so bright , That even loves fire showes a lesse glorious light . Ex Enter GUIMANTES , and ARTEMIA . GUI .

Fairest Mistris , can it bee possible ye are so ignorant of love , yet have such power to beget love in all that see you ?

ART .

Beget love ? Ye are the first that ever told me so , what is hee like ? I wud faine see my child ; is hee like Venus sonne ? I saw him in a picture once , that lad had bow , and arrowes .

GVI .

But none that pierce hearts thorow , like those darts shot from your eies .

ART .

Mine , sure I have none , I feele not any thing within my eye .

GVI .

You may your cruell scornes , if ye will see my heart .

ART .

't were treason to desire it Sir , your heart ?

GVI .

Treason to love ye now commit , to be thus scornfull .

ART .

Treason to love ? what is my sonne my King ? I thought I might have whipt him , Venus did so , I well remember .

GVI . Never , but when a did mistake his marke , and Wound her , I hope he hath not serv'd you so ; There 's no Adonis you doat on ? and yet I feare it . ART .

I cannot tell what was Adonis .

GVI .

He was a young and handsome forr●ster .

ART .

He was not like your highnesse then .

GVI .

I dare not say so , having calld him handsome .

ART .

I see your highnesse is a friend to truth .

GVI .

Tho not in handsomnesse , in youth I might be like him ▪ but not in his conditions : for the allurements of a Goddesse cou'd not make him love , and I in spite of all you● scorns am wholly yours .

ART .

And what will that obliege mee to ?

GUI .

If ye be gratefull , it will kindle in your heart an equal fire .

ART ▪

But of what fewell ?

GVI .

Of Love .

ARTE .

Of love ? alas then I shall be a murtheresse and burne my sonne .

GUI .

Take heed that by this seeing ignorance , ye doe not murther my respects , and your own happinesse : I am no common wooer , Lady it will be hard for you to finde one better worth th' entertayning .

ARTE .

It will be no losse Sir , since I wud not entertaine at all .

GUI .

I can not thinke ye are already stored , your father durst not so abuse me .

ARTE .

I doe beleeve it , but Sir , I am a Goddesse , at least you styl'd me so , vow'd that ye wud be wholly mine spite of all my scornes ; and trust me I wll put it to the tryall , your title of a Prince must not debarr me the priviledge of a Mistris , for by the gods my father , you , nor any living , shall make me marry but one , of whose affection I will have sufficient tryall .

GUID .

And how is that tryall to be made ?

ARTE .

By time , and what taske , I shall please to impose upon him .

GUID .

But how if th' affaires of state will not permit it ?

ARTE .

The powers command it that must give the blessing to each marriage : most daughters now adayes are made a sacrifice to wealth , or ends yet ; still the hypocrite Father ptetends the Childrens happinesse is that he aims at chiefely . Pardon , me Lord , my freedome , if either you , or I had been deform'd , yet wee had proved the cement to our fathers love ; reason of State had been our ruin , I hope a better fate attends us , and that wee may know each the other in the noblest part , the minde , I am resolved one yeare to bee your Mistris , or by th' gods never your wife ; nor doe I promise when that yeare is past , mistake me not ,

For what we are assur'd we shall possesse , That knowledge ever makes the purchase lesse . Exit . alone . Enter KING , and ADRASTUS . KING .

Most certainly she loves him , which if she doe , may all the curse of a father cea●e her .

AD .

I dare not say she does , yet ever since that night Arviragus . —

KING .

No more , call her in , and heare me , let the Prince be sent for straight . —

Exit Adrastus . Enter GUIDERIUS , and PHILJCJA , whisper together .

Daughter , good morrow ; J see Guiderius you wait close on your Mistris .

GVID .

' ● is so great a blessing to be neare her , that I adventure to be unportunate .

KING .

I hope she cannot think ye so — Guimanthes , where 's your faire Mistris ?

GVI .

I came now from her , shee 's indeed a Mistris , and wonot quit that title for a yeere .

KING .

How ? will she not marry sooner , if we shall desire it ?

GUI .

By no meanes Sir , she hath vowed the contrary .

KING .

And she may keepe it , if you please , not otherwise , doe ye love her much ?

GVI .

Much , for a mistris , Sir , she 's too emperious for a wife , but happily she 's not what she seemes .

KING .

't is ods no woman is , they are not things to place our joyes upon , — they are above a Prince that wud desire to govern wisely , good play-fellowes sometimes , when we are idle :

A horne blowne ▪

Goe some , and know the newes 't is from the Campe for certaine ; be favorable ye Saxon gods —

Exit Adrastus . Enter Adrastus , and a Captaine .

Speake , how fares Eugenius , our worthy brother ?

CAP .

As he was wont , when in the field victory sits on his Crest .

PH .

Ah me ! what are my feares for Arviragus ?

KING .

Relate the manner of the battle .

CAP .

In brief I shall ; small ods cou'd be perceived , either in place , or number , only the justice of our cause made us first offer battle , which they accepting , carcases soone strow'd the fi●lds , death had a plenteous harvest in an instant , and the great reaper was fierce Arviragus , which once perceived by your great Generall , who oft had been a witnesse of his brutish force , but want of temper ; commanded they shud sound retreat , so to eng●ge his fiery enemy further within his troops : th' effect answered his expectation .

PHI .

Oh!

CAP .

For Arviragus with some others round enclosed by a choyse company prepared for the designe , was beaten from his horse , and pear●'d thorow with so many wounds that scarce his body cou'd be knowne after th' victory , which quickly was by us obtain'd , their Generall once lost , in whom it seemes their rebell courage lay .

KING .

Looke to my daughte● , sure shee 's not well , what did they with th' traitors body ?

CAP .

The souldiers tore it piece-meale , in revenge of all their kindreds blood that had been spilt , only his head with much a doe was saved to set upon the City gates , to frig ●t all traytors from the like attempts .

GUI .

Looke to my sister , she swounds .

KING .

Upon your life none stir to helpe her , may shee n●'re wake againe ; then Arviragus she 's by farre a greater traitor : wud our so great a preservation touch her thus to th' quicke else ? come from her , gentle youth , she 's not worthie of our love , or pity ; degenerat bastard ! Ye powers , grant that her soule be now entring th' infernall barke ; but I am mercifull to wish her dead .

Returne thou fleeting spirit , and in this loathed carcase longer dwell : My anger shall inflict torments on earth , above the paines of hell . The end of the fourth Act.

Enter SINATVS , and a LORD . SIN :

O Arviragus , how most unhappy that I was not born thy subject ! it had been more content to me , if thou hadst tane my life , forfeated to thy Justice , than in this liberty ; thy Army is a heaven , this Court a hell for vertuous men : what a cold welcome have I found , for all my faithfull service ? th' Prince Guimanthes scarcely thanking me for his deliverance .

LORD .

Cosen , me thought the King did expresse much joy t● see you .

SIN .

't is true , but he hath many cares upon him , indeed is scarce himselfe , seemes to bee now what his son was , governd by passion .

LORD .

O the discovery of his daughter's love to Arviragus made him almost mad ; but who can blame her for a love so noble as he , th bravest man alive ?

SIN .

't is true but hee 's an enemy to our State , and that considering , h'expression of her father's anger is most just ; Princes are borne not for themselves alone , but for their countries good .

LORD .

But tho their bloud bee royall , it cannot hinder them from humane passions , and that 's no love that reason can confine ; but here in Philicia to Arviragus , reason must seeme to be the ground of love , and so from him to her : I wonder it cou'd be so long conceal'd from the King , me thought it was impossible it shud be otherwaies ; but to say truth , it was a prettie policy th' King us'd to know the certainty , by that terrible description of Arviragus death , and by that messenger that then was come from the Campe , so to avoid suspition of a plot .

SIN .

't is true , their policy was good , but , like a jealous husband , th' assurance of his feares proves an increase unto his torment .

Enter KING . LORD .

Peace , here 's the King much troubled in his lookes , I hope that messenger , and letter are contrary to that description he made his daughter .

KING .

Fled , defeated , utterly defeated , my best men slain , and the rest routed — Can ye yet adde affliction , envious Powers , my glasse so neere run out ? must I now stand a but for your fierce wrath ? your glorie had been more had ye begun the quarrell sooner ; yee know grave hairs on bending to th' grave will shame your opposition .

Enter GUIMANTES . SIN .

O Sir , take heed , th' gods are infinite in all their attributes , only whilst we repine , or murmure they can show no mercy for any .

KING .

Nor doe I hope ( pious foole ) let them bee lookers on , impartiall unto either , and in the field I le tugge for victory with this fierce Arviragus , whose very lookes turnes Lions into Hares , — but Eugenius was of a bastard race , not of the Kingly breed , else he had died , e're turn'd his backe : that maxim falls , tho held by most , that he can ever make a better captaine that hath lost a battle , than he who never saw misfortune ; 't was only an excuse cowards invented , and th' generall world subject to that disease , now passes it for currant : to me there 's no third ; brave death , or victory onely becomes a Generall , the glorious Sunne shud never see my face , had I once turn'd my backe upon the foe .

GUI .

Tho this opinion Sir , seemes to include within the coward number me , your sonne , as having lost a battle , with this your late instruction ; grant new power , and I shall with my hearts best blood , or our proud enemies , wash off my staine , and witnesse to th' world m● beliefe of this your man like precept .

KING .

Thou didst not flie Guimantes , 't is that for which I taxe Eugenius that traytor who shall pay for 't ; in our dispite we may bee made a prisoner , death like a coy Mistris , will not sometimes imbrace , altho she seeme within our power ; and for thy sute againe to bee our Generall , our Honour does forbid it ; now Arviragus is growne up worthy the hazard of our fame , our person , and it wud show feare more then wisedome , ●to send , a substitute . No , wee will meet , young man , thou hadst thy spring of honour , even under my command , since ripened fat by frequent Victories , and now that thou art growne to a wealthy Autumne , ready to reape the fruit of all thy labours ; I , since thou provest ungrate , come like a forward winter to destroy thee , and thy seeming glories . Adrastus , and Sinatus wait our commands .

Exit King , Adrastus , and Sinatus . GUI .

And I , since now I cannot feare Eugenius revenge , by faire means , or by force will this night have my pleasure of his scornefull daughter Artemia .

Ex. Enter ARVIRAGUS , and CLEANTHUS , as in the Army . AR .

Cleanthus , what 's thy opinion ? did Eugenius escape with life out of the Battle ?

CLEA .

I thinke a cou'd not , but your highnesse can give best account of him .

AR .

True , of his valour , but not safety ; my body once buckled under his strong arme ; 't was well I had a better horse , whose strength did much availe , he made his way up to me thorow his fainting troopes , wo●d mee to the encounter , with such an admirable bravery , that honor thrust me forth to meet him , like an eager lover ; and tho I then curst in my soule his troopes , and mine that parted us ; yet now I blesse th' occasion , for at the best I shud have taken life from him , whose valour , and wisdome oft hath been the chiefe security of mine .

CLEA .

It had been happie for him to have died with those wounds that you only gave him , and sure their nature , and their number were sufficient to dispatch him , some being in the head , and face : he look'd as if he had been bath'd in blood .

AR .

It was not all his owne , we once did close , and from this arme issued a streame ; and now the heart of angers past , unto my fancie , he appeares most lovely in t●at souldiers dresse : had an Angell told me he and I cou'd ever have embraced to such a bloody purpose , I shud have given no faith , but thought it some deluding spirit sent to beget division in our then esteem'd most perfect friendship . Ambition , thou airely sinne , thou mad'st that double separation in Eugenius , first from his vertue , then from me his Prince and friend : but Oh his sonne ! I will not thinke upon Guiderius , least it shud strike me with a generall numnesse , force all my blood retire unto my heart , to guard it from the stroake of his unkindnesse .

CLEA .

Why Sir , doe ye afflict your selfe for those , who no waies doe deserve your thought , but how to punish their base falsehood ?

AR .

Which I will put in act , thou dost awake justice within my soule ; now wee are within a dayes march of the head City ,

Where I will either gaine what I desire , Or in so glorious an attempt expire . Ex. Enter KING , ADRASTUS , SINATUS , CRATUS , and others . KING .

Adrastus , thou art my confidence , in thee is my chiefe hope , put now in act with speed what we concluded of touching the knowledge of my life , and fortune , in this present warre ; use thy best diligence : I have sent a Herald to desire an enterview with Arviragus , all to gaine time till they returne , flye my best servant .

ADR .

Most happy when your Majesty imployes me .

Exit Adrastus , and Cratus . Enter a LORD . LORD .

If it please your Majestie , Eugenius is arriv'd , and craves adm●ttance to your presence .

KING .

Fetch in that boaster , but how ? without a triumph ? O by no meanes , attend him Lords , he was a Prince , but now appeares a slave by his base cowardise .

Enter EUGENIUS mockt by them . EVG .

I am amas'd , altho my fortune doe not deserve this seeming adoration shud bee reall , yet no waies am I conscious , that any action I have done deserves it as a scorne .

KING .

O my Lord , doe not beleev 't , what , put these scornes upon the great Eugenins , that famous captaine , who sure hath brought in bonds fierce Arvirugus , or left him breathlesse in the field ? if prisoner , bring him in , wee long to see him how his lookes are changed ; no , then hee 's dead , and in him all our dangers perish ; we know our Princely brother wud be th' Master of his words , eitheir to plucke the wreath of victory from Arviragus brow , or death shud circle his .

EVG .

And so it shud , ungratefull Prince , had I beene seconded by those you gave me for assistance ; no man I brought from Pictland , but his blood manures th' unhappy ground ; he fought on for me , these wounds were such as I exchang'd with Arviragus hand to hand , in sight of whom , no one of yours durst follow me ; I was betrayed with mine , and left a prey to the insulting foe .

KING .

No coward ever yet wanted excuse , to lay the fault on others , but rather I believe it was a plot laid by our politicke enemy , and thy false selfe , so to destroy our forces , or else why didst thou charge , our Captaines not consenting at that time ?

EVG .

Their coward soules made them move on with a snailepace in my despite , whilst Arviragus tooke in townes , rifled the Country ; and had he past the river , after him broke downe one bridge , he must have taken the second City of your kingdome past all resistance .

KING .

And now what hinders him ?

EVG .

Our best endeavour is a faire excuse , Jove gives the victory to whom he pleaseth .

KING .

And I who stand as Jove in power , pronounce thy actions treasons to th' state , for which thy head shall answer ; I was a fo●le to thinke so neere a kinsman to my enemy , cou'd e're meane faithfully to me . Strike off his head immediatly , he that unto his friend was false to gaine a Crowne , wud be to me so , for advantage .

SINATUS .

O my Lord , if from successe you judge mens actions , there 's none but mad-men will undertake to fight your battles ; in this you take away the hope of ever gaining from your enemy Captain or Souldiers .

KING .

Well for thy sake Sinatus he shall live , but hence forth we professe nee're to employ a stranger , in our Warrs : nor can that Prince be wise , that does so if he have able Captaines of his own . Which we , thanks be to heaven , doe no wayes want , such of whose loves , judgment , and valour , we are confident .

2 LORD .

We all Sir , shall beleeve our selves most happy to spend our best bloods in your service .

KING .

And in that confidence we are resolved to charge our foe , nor suffer th' disgrace to be besieg'd in our chiefe City — for you Eugenius the death be your desert , we pardon your offence , and will allow a pension to mantaine you ; and your children .

Exit KING , and others . Manet Eugenius . EUG .

O miserable Eugenius ! where breathes a man so wretched ? but I deserve all this and more ; why doe I live to suffer such affronts ? I shoud have strooke the Tyrant dead in midst of all his scornes : I had a soule once wud have inforc't me to th' attempt , but thou hast lost thy selfe fond man ; guilt makes thee base , I forfeited my courage when I lost my vertue .

Enter one .

What the great Prince of Pictland all alone , and discontented — please your Highnesse command your vassall any service .

EUG .

I understand your scorne Sir , and am afflicted with it ; having your end pray leave me , lest I be moved to doe something that may content me too .

Your Highnesse pardon , I conceive ye wud be private to consider how to dispose your prisoners . Eug . Slave .

Exit . Enter two . 1.

If it may no wayes be offensive to your Highnesse , we wud desire to know when the double marriage shall be solemnis'd betweene the Kings children , and yours .

Sure your Daughter will bring us warlike Princes , and fortunate like you their noble gran-sire .

EUG .

Are they not set a purpose to stirre me to some violent act , on which the tyrant meanes to take advantage ?

Me Lord , I have some skill in making pageants , dare undertake to please th' people , much please you that I may have employment in the triumph ?

EUG .

By all means Sir , you shall .

And Sir , I hope .

EUG .

You may Sir , hope any thing so you 'l leave me .

O me Lord .

EUG .

Els I shall pay ye e're you undertake your worke .

BOTH .

We goe Sir .

Ex. EUG .

If I be more opprest with such as these , were it before th' tyrants face , I shall revenge my selfe ; but heer 's the Prince , sure hee 's not like the rest — Sir I presume .

GU .

't is true ye doe so .

EUG .

Why doe you not know me Sir ?

GU .

Yes , and wud have ye know your distance a runnagate , I will not call thee traytor , shud not approach th' person of a Prince uncal'd .

Exit . EUG .

Can I yet suffer ? sure I am Planet-strooke , heere had been a subject worth my anger , I 'le after and sacrifice him to my enjuries — stay — what wodst th' doe , by a rash act , forfeit thy childrens lives ? perhaps there useage yet is noble ; they have not proved unfortunate in Warre , ther 's no treason nor no armies losse laid to their charge .

Enter ARTEMIA , in disorder .

Who 's this , my Daughter Artemia ?

AR .

Even she your most unhappy , and most injur'd child .

GU .

Speake my Artemia ! meanst thou in my affronts or personall injuries to thee ?

AR .

O Sit , the vicious Prince ?

EU .

No more , a little pause , untill I muster up my much infeebled spirits . I finde I nee're shall be the master of a rationall soule , nor know the proper time for action ; but rage shall supply all my defects of judgement : speake ; thou dost already plainly to my feares , the lustfull Prince hath forc't thee , speake and free me from all my miseries at once , for I know I shall no longer grieve , why art thou slow to rid . me from my suffering — say , art thou ravish'd ? I see thou fearst to kill thy father , be not deceived , if it be so , it only will convert my sorrowes into rage , and I shall live untill I take revenge .

ART .

I shame to speake what I have suffered , tho yet a maid , this knife was my protection .

EVG .

Think not thy feeble arme had power , it was the gods , my child , the base attempt calls for revenge ; but how ? alas I have not power , nor my sword is left me yet ; but wher 's the means to use it ? I lost an opportunitie , that I wud give this hand I cou'd call backe ; I might have kil'd Guimantes in height of all his scornes , but now —

lyes downe . Enter GVIDERIUS . GUI .

O , my deare father , how I joy to see you !

EUG .

Thou canst not sure Guiderius joy to see me , to see mee thus at least ; the universall eye that viewes the sonnes of men , does not behold one neere so wretched .

GUID .

And t 's that present misery in which I judge you happy , prosperity in unjust undertakings is not a blessing : but I might curse ; the gods Sir , wud ye bend to them , in an acknowledgment of your offence , wud cast an eie of pity in your miserie , and send reliefe . Rise , and take comfort .

EUG .

Shame to my age , that thou shouldst now become my rutor ; you powers , I find your mercy to me in your justice , for whilst my hopes were high , and that I prosper'd in my ambitious designe , the sinne of my ingratitude and false-hood to Arviragus appeared but triviall , tho often urg'd , ere we left Pictland , by thee my vertuous sonne , to the full waight , a burden now intolerable : cou'd that bee added to my owne mis-fortunes , this instant my heart wud breake with th' consideration ; but 't is impossible that they shud mix my miseries , brought me but to the sight of my offence , and vanish'd ; hee that doth truly grieve at sinne , joyes in the punishment that made him know it .

GVID .

Come , my d●are sister , now begins our happinesse .

Ex ▪ omnes . Enter ARRASTUS , and CRATUS . AD .

Now brother we are at the Cave where th' old Beldam lives , and well this uncouth dismall place becomes the company shee keeps , spirits and goblins .

CRA .

I doe confesse it looks as if it confin'd upon hell , but doe ye thinke it possible that she can satisfie the Kings desires , by th' foretelling of his present fate in battle , and his end ?

AD .

The many proofes that shee hath given of her great knowledge , hath made ●er famous through this I land ; especially th' King hath cause to trust her prediction , since she foretold his conquest o're the Picts , and before that , his being King , tho then three brothers stood betwixt him , and the throne : come let 's enter .

Enter WITCH . WITCH .

No , ye shall not need , speake why ye come ?

AD .

Doe not you know ?

WI .

It matters not , speake or returne .

AD .

Be not so angry , we come from th' King , that honor you , and justly , for your predictions touching him , both hitherto been true and happy .

WI .

Be briefe , or else I leave you ; what is 't he demands ?

ADR .

The issue of the present warre he hath in hand .

WI .

Is that all ?

ADR .

No , he desires likewise to know , when , and what shall be his end ?

WI .

His army shall the battle gaine .

ADR .

That 's good , but what shall be his end ?

WI .

Within few dayes he shall be slaine .

AD .

How ? but say by whose hand shall it be ?

WI .

Traytor , in thy despight , by thee .

Exit Witch . ADR .

Out Hag , by me ? thou shalt first be burnt , or goe to hell quick ere I act such wickednesse : sure all th' Iland hath been cosen'd in this woman hitherto , or now she doats , and the divel whom she hath so long commanded makes a foole of her .

CRAT .

I am sure we shud prove such , did we returne no other answer to the King , let s in after her and aske some other .

AD .

Agreed — Fire flashes out of the Cave , and hideous noyse . Fly , we shall be torne in peeces els , ther 's no forcing of the Divell to speake .

Exeunt . Enter two CAPTAINES . 1 CAP .

I wonder that your Prince will consent to an enterview , the crafty tyrant does it only to gaine time .

2 CAP .

't is well if it be no worse , for my part I feare some treason .

1 CAP .

That can hardly be , ther 's but two upon each side and they are to be searcht before th' Princes mee● ; the place , a flight-shot from each Army .

2 CAP .

Harke , th' triumph gives warning , they are setting forward .

Exeunt . Enter at one dore ARVIRAGVS , and CLEANTHVS ▪ at the other the KING , and PHILICIA . AR .

Ha! doe I see cleare , the King and Philicia ? 't is she , what face but hers cou'd shoot such rayes and wound at distance ? take heed fond man this , glorious comet wud never thus appeare but for thy ruin .

PHI .

What were my joyes to see these eyes againe did not my happinesse finde checke from apprehension of my fathers comming ?

KING .

You see , most noble Adviragus we not exceed in number although we vary in th' Sex ; our son we did intend to have chosen for our ayde , but when we did consider his fierce and cholerique nature , apter to make new wounds then salve th' old , we chose to bring our Daughter , equall interest'd in our love , nay crowne , for we have to the World made it known , since we have found him disobedient , that she shall share an equall portion of our State .

CLE .

That net is spread .

KING .

But this is from our purpose .

AR .

I must not thinke so .

KING .

Tell me brave youth , wherein had I so ill deserved that you cou'd doubt performance of my promise , or did you thinke my meaning good , but that my sons unequall arrogance frighted me from performance .

AR .

Great King doe not beleeve I so much shud mistake your character , which by the World is easily read , to thinke you feare your son , a subject by a double ty , no , I must call my injuries your own , actions proceeding from a provident care to enlarge your State , rather to setle by a politicke way Pictland yours for ever , which force and tyranny for th' present had made you master of .

KING .

Had that been my designe , why did I save you when a child , and since ? added each day new honors , nay wud have rais'd you to a happinesse above ▪ your hopes in spite of him that envy'd your felicity , and arrogantly durst oppose a King , and fathers will , his malice might proove uselesse yet to breake our friendship ? wud you confesse that you have erred , nay shud you sue for peace , we so much prize your love that you might almost make your own conditions .

CLE .

Beware Sir , of these flatteries .

AR .

I must confesse Sir , what you have alleadg'd seem'd to be done , but well we both doe know , you ever , I of late , that there was wanting a reall soule unto these seeming kindness●s ; your own advantages still mooving to what you did , and not my good or glory . Put then the services that I have done you in an equall ballance with what I ever did receave , and I am confident , I am noe debtor ; and for your aptnesse to embrace a peace , wud I confesse my error , be pleas'd to know I am not ignorant of my advantage in the Warre , nor in th' justice of my cause : both are so great that scarce can you propose conditions for peace so disadvantagious unto your selfe , that honor and wisedome will permit me to accept of ; yet that I may declare a thankfulnesse for th' great confidence you have exprest of my faire meaning by comming armed thus weakely , and that this enterview hath some thing in it of no common strayne , I heare lay by all my advantages , nay more , oblige my selfe to stand to such conditions for a peace as this faire Lady , of your part sure , shall thinke fit to ordayne .

KING .

I see it takes .

PH .

Me Lord , this is no obligation on my part tho you intend to make it such , for I must either ill requite th' honor , which you doe me , or prove my selfe an unkinde Daughter : as yet having embrac't no power I likewise doe avoyde necessity or guilt , my part in this your reconcilement , must be no other then my prayers , and teares which shall be plentifull for the prosperity of both ; the' means to which your abler judgements must determine , and not I.

KING .

Daughter did all that see our persons heare our words , I shud commend this your reservednesse , but we both know th' passion of your soule , approve and glory in them , seeme not amas'd ; what is t Kings cannot know concerning persons so considerable as you are both to me ? that very night I found you in th' garden walking , I could have intercepted you my Lord , my son Guimanthes informing me that you were there , and urging me to kill you , which he had done by secret meanes had I not undertaken it , and form'd discourse with my Daughter of that I knew full well , so that you might by that have time to passe away unmarkt by any .

PH .

Almost this cunning does deceive even me , spite of my knowledge .

KING .

Those you Kil'd at the Garden-doore , for which the Law wud have condem'd you , I likewise knew off , but kept it from my son by whom they were set on to murder you : these acts , and his strange insolence have rendred him hatefull to me that if you will now lay down Arms , and fairely sue to be receaved my son in law , her Dowery shall be th' Principality of Pictland , in spite of him , and all that shall oppose it .

CLE .

Me Lord , this proposition is neither safe nor honorable , let not love ruin you and yours .

AR .

Thou doe'st awake me . Sir , I have thought , and finde , what you propose , honor and reason commands me to refuse : for to receave as dowry with a Wife , what I possesse both by a right of bloud and conquest ; wud show defect in judgement , and injure truth , but to expresse how much I prize this Lady , be she so pleas'd , heere from your hand I will receave her , and ever yeeld her homage for my Crowne , life and all my blessings , and to fill up my empty scale , to make the proposition weigh the better in your judgement , I freely will surrender what I possesse of your dominions , and serve you with my utmost ayde against all enemies that shall invade you .

PH .

Can my Father refuse this ?

KING .

Honor that does command you to refuse Pictland a dowry with my Daughter , commands me not to grant it other wayes , for els it will appeare , you force both from me , making my Daughter the salary of peace , nor can I thinke what ever you pretend , that you yet love her , or she you : true love wud o're come these nice distinctions .

PHI .

I feare this passion .

KING .

But since you are such temperate lovers , that when the warrantable joyes of Hymen thus temptingly invite ye , will not adventure stretching of a sinew , to reach the fruit , I am resolved never againe to prostitute my selfe unto your scorn devested of my wonted Majesty , no tho my owne and the whole Kingdomes ruin follows , in which I will secure thy punishment : justice commands that she , who wud not seeke to save the bloud of thousands , perish .

AR .

Sir , ye are now too passionate , ther 's no ground for this great alteration .

KING .

Nor wud I have thee thinke , yong man , these offers doe proceed from thy victorious Army : my present Forces equall thine , treble the number of thy victories ; make up my fame , and I shall meete thee tho my haires be gray , wtih the first virgin honor that I won , which still adorns my crest , and shall doe 'till the hand of death sue a divorce , which must be bloodyly disputed .

PH .

What shall I doe ?

KING .

Either accept what I proposed , which was th' utmost honor cou'd permit me , or by to morrow Sonne prepare for Battell .

CLEA .

Accept the Battell Sir , there is no trusting him .

KING .

This seeming passion may prevayle , and when I have him once , no ransome shall redeeme him .

AR .

O Honor , why shud'st thou thus oppose my joyes I can not either way resolve , nor is it fit I shud , she must dispose me whose I am ; dearest Philicia lay your command upon me either way , and I shall glory in th' event , although it prove my ruin .

PHI .

Of which rather then be th' author , I wud be strucke with thunder , at this present .

AR .

Speake , O speake Philicia ! by our love I doe conjure ye

PH .

Yeeld then my dearest Arviragus .

KING .

Hee 's won .

AR .

I shall name , but to what ?

PHI .

To what ? to what your safety , and your honour shall direct you .

KING .

Must we prepare for warre then ? it seemes you give the sentence , and delight in blood .

PHI .

So farre Sir , am I from it , that upon my knees I sue to both for peace , but chiefly to th' gods , by whom inspired , I now dare give advice ; for three daies let a truce be sworne by either side , in which time all may be considered , more maturely waighed , than on this sudden ; Heaven that inspired me with this thought , may settle all your differences , which are not great , at least allow me means of flight .

KING .

What sayes Prince Arviragus ?

AR .

I shall most willingly consent , and vow a sacred observation on my part .

KING .

The like I sweare , for I to morrow shall know my fate in Battle , and my end , according to which I shall direct my actions .

AR .

O that I durst presume to kisse those hands ! it wud expresse a fondnesse prejudiciall to us both .

PHI .

His eyes shot beames of love into my soule ; thou gentle power , grant mine an equall force , and let him languish with the wound , feeling no cure , like me , till w● againe shall meet .

KING .

Farewell , my Lord , we 'l send to treat .

Exit King and Ph●licia . AR .

Most willing — so parts the Sunne stealing behind a cloud , and shaddowes up the world in envious night ; and day , I feare , will never breake so gloriously again : what killing griefs sease my heart from that consideration ? how shall I suffer a long , perhaps an everlasting absence , a minutes time yielding this torment ? I was too nice for termes of honour ; I le call her father back , and yeeld him all he can desire . Stay — thou fond man , she seem'd to injoyne me the contrary ,

Who is divinely good and wise , obey her will ,

Whose smiles can make thee blest , whose frowns can kill

Exit . Enter ADRASTUS . AD .

Traytor , in thy despight , by thee — So said the witch , that I shud kill the King ; 't was a strange answer , and will appeare as strange for me to tell him ; there 's danger in 't — true , if it were the insinuation of another , but when I my selfe shall tell him ; I whom a loves , whom he hath trusted with many bloody secrets , — Secrets , and bloody ones ; his character being rightly waighed , reason does tell mee , that rather shud increase , than lessen feare ; to tell him that I do know his secrets , is but to prompt him to his safety , in my ruin , the dead can tell no tales without a miracle ; besides all the large promises that he hath made me , in my death are cancel'd , and he stands free to worke another to his end by blasts of aire , for such his promises have prov'd to me — but stay , what shud I tell him ? what she said ? no , rather frame another answer , that will not doe , my brother heard it , and who in such a cause dare trust a brother or shud the King not like the answer , misdoubt , send or goe himselfe , or the dam'd witch informe him by a spirit , what death with torments were I then to looke for ? I tremble but to think on th' , horror invades me every way .

Enter CRATVS . CRA .

How now brother , what troubles you ?

AD .

What I shall nee're be free from .

Exeunt Ambo . Enter GUIMANTES , and a Lord . GU .

Me Lord , what is the King my father doing ? is he ready yet ?

LORD .

Yea Sir , he hath been talking with Eugenius this halfe houre .

GU .

Of what ?

LORD .

Trying to draw out of him by wily circumstances the maner of Arviragus ordering his men in Battell , what part he fights in himselfe , and all questions touching these points .

GV .

Sure he doats , will my father trust the counsells of the person of a man so discontented nee'r himselfe ?

LORD .

For his person he cou'd not hurt the King , unlesse with his eyes , he hath no weapons , and for his counsells that the King was not oblig'd to credit more then he found likely , in reason .

GU .

Goe see when th' King 's at leasure , and bring me word here or in th' gallery .

LO .

I will Sir .

Exit . GU .

How tedious is it to expect a Crowne ? how servill ? for I am forc't to curbe my nature , dare not expresse my hate or love , unles it please my father : thus like a schoole-boy , doe I spend my best of time my youth , wherein we onely can tast true happinesse ; had I the Scepter in my hand , I rather wud adventure loosing it , then any pleasure that my youth desired , whereas my cautelous and wary father scarcely ever yet enjoyed a pleasure worthy of a King , doubt still attend his desires , nere once irregular , so fooling himselfe out of his joyes by being too apprehensive of th' ensuing danger . He truly doth enjoy pleasures that boldly acts sins , and els are only shares in the facts .

Exit . Enter KING , SINATUS , EUGENIUS , ADRASTUS , CRATUS , and others . KING .

Adrastus most welcome , yet I know not , ●hou hast something in thy looke dismayes me , I feare thy message .

AD .

Yee have no cause , in private yee shall know 't .

KING .

All leave us , Sinatus , and Eugenius only may stay two roomes off , we must have further conference with them anon , but let not any presume to disturbe us till we call .

SIN .

We shall be carefull , Sir .

AD .

Remember what I told you .

CRA .

Feare not .

KING .

Now Adrastus we are alone , speake boldly .

AD .

Sir , I shall .

KING .

And truly on thy life what e're it be , yet Adrastus thou art to me as fate , and what thou shalt deliver is like the sentence of the gods inevitable , therefore if it tend to ill give me some little pause , that so my spirits recollected I may meet it like a King .

AD .

Why shud yee feare Sir ? she you sent me to inquire of did ever yet foretell things happy .

KING .

't is true , and thou doest rayse me much with that remembrance , speake then and joyfull things .

AD .

My brother Sir , and I according to your Majesties command , found out the Beldames Cave ; at the mouth of which she met us , denyed us entrance , ask't our businesse and from whom , we told her all that you desired to know — she answerd for th' first your Army ▪ shud the Battell gain .

KING .

O happy newes blest Adrastus !

AD .

Not so , for in few dayes you must be slaine .

KING .

Ha! slayn● by whom ?

CRATUS drawes his sword . AD .

Looke backe and see ?

KING .

Traytors .

AD .

And 't is true , now I am he , and fear in my dispite hath made me do 't .

KING

Oh , oh , Treason , traytors .

AD .

Dispatch , dispatch , so now 't is don , hee 's dead and all my feares in him .

CRA .

We have been too hasty , my soule trembles at the object he was our King .

AD .

Ha ? relenting ? this must not be .

CRA .

O brother your perswasions have made me miserable !

AD .

Ther 's no disputing now , our safety and reward lies in our flight to Arviragus , had we not kil'd him , we had been sure to have died our selves .

CRA .

●t had been better so , then beare the guilt I feele .

AD .

So conscience take thy wish .

Kils him . CRA .

Oh , Villaine , Traytor .

AD .

Yes , I am so , but who knowes it now ?

CRA .

O th' gods .

AD .

Ha , what noyse was that ? I 'le shut this doore ; Eugenius , and Sinatus may have heard my brother or the King when they call'd out : now can I but passe the port I am secure , that doore opens out of this Chamber , towards the gallery , so to the garden , how ever I am past retiring .

Exit . Enter GUIMANTES ,

Come backe Adrastus , whether so fast ? Why doest thou looke so gastly ? wher 's my Father ? speake slave , what ●loud is that upon thy Cloathes ?

AD .

What shall I say ?

GUI .

Speake .

AD .

O me deare Lord ! I am so much amased , horror tie● up my tongue , your fathers murthered .

GUI .

Ha , speake that againe !

AD .

Your father 's murthered .

GUI .

By whom● ?

CIE .

Eugenius , and Sinatus , whom I have lock't in the next roome , and in the Kings rescue kil'd my own brother , who was assistant with them . O see Sir , where your royall Maister lies stucke full of wounds , wud the fa●es had tane my life a sacrifice for his .

GUI .

This sight doth more amase then grieve mee : call for th' guard , or stay heere rather ; this Lord altho a coward ever may be an actor in this Tragedy himselfe , I 'le shut him fast .

AD .

Ha , shut in : what means the Prnce ? sure he suspects , 't is ●o and I am caught in my own ●rain , utterly lost ; what death with studyed torments shall I suffer ? no passage out ? O horror to remaine heere ! no living men cou'd more affright me , 't is paine above what justice can inflict ; O conscience , conscience , dead so long , why dost thou quicken now ? must I feele hell heere ▪ in this life ?

Enter GVIMANTES , and others . GUI .

Make sure th' doores th' other way , and rather kill then suffer them to scape .

AD .

Ther 's comfort yet ; I feare Sir , they are fled out at the other doore , they tryed all means to breake this open .

GUI .

Unlocke th' doores , and stand upon your guard , search all .

Exeunt . Enter LORDS .

Ther 's none Sir , in this Chamber , if they be not hid , the further dorre is open .

AD .

Then they are fled .

Enter a LORD .

1. Wher 's the Prince ?

GVI .

Here .

●1 .

Eugenius , and Sinatus sir , are taken by th' guard , as they were passing downe into the Court .

Enter EUGENIUS , SINATUS , with a guard , bòund . GVI .

Villains , what was it that cou'd move you to a deed so horrid ? for which , no punishment can be sufficient , and yet assure your selves to feele above what ever traytor suffered .

SIN .

I am not so much affrighted , as amased , nor that so much as grieved to see my master cold and bloodlesse ; Ad●a●tus there can be a witnesse of our innocence , who with his brother only entred with the King into this chamber , commanded us to attend till we were call'd , which we obeyed untill we heard a tumult in the court , some crying treason , and comming downe to know the cause , we were assaulted by th' guard , we made resistance , till we knew the reason of their violence ; Sir , this is all that I am guilty of , and I believe him likewise innocent .

GUI .

So do I too , but for my ends I le not acknowledg it ; beare off these traytors to the Prison , torture shall force them to confesse .

EVG .

No Prince , it shall not , for me , I am not sensible of guilt from any other actions , but those wherein I thought to doe thee , and thy father service against the best of men , O Arviragus , heaven doth punish me , now innocent , for I was salfe to thee .

AD .

You see , me Lord , the cause that moved them to your fathers murther breake forth in their despight , their love to Arviragus .

GUI .

't is true Adrastus , nor shall your head stand long upon your shoulders , it only growes till I may cut it off with more advantage for my ends .

1 LORD .

I scarce can understand this businesse .

2 LORD .

I know not what we shud beleeve .

AD .

Looke on your fathers wounds , and let that stirre yee up to take swift vengeance ; how e're they were th' instruments , yet Arviragus gave the motion to their bloody hands . O my deare . Master ! shall Arviragus that bold traytor triumph in this ruin ?

GUI .

I wud revenge , but how ?

AD .

I am inspir'd Sir , looking on your fathers wounds . Charg th' enemy this night with all your army , they are secure by reason of this truce , let my head pay the forfeit , unlesse you doe the battle gaine . For by this hand the king is slaine .

GUI .

I like th' counsell , tho not the giver ; my fathers death brings some disorder Lords , but wil grow greater , known in our Campe .

And for the truce my father swore , to that I 'me free , How e're falshood triumphing showes like policy . Take up that royall body , we will not only wash thy wounds in teares , an other flood : Best fits revenge , a sea of en'mies blood .

Epilogue . OUr Author at the Barre of Censure stands , Yet fears no hisse , nor hopes no clap of hands ; The gentler Sex that gives life to his muse , Such rude dislikes , or plaudits never use ; But with a pleas'd , or discontented eye , Can make a Poem live , or Poet dye . ●f these , and who are theirs , in part approve This our first Play , the second then may move A better liking ; for the persons known , Their griefes , or ioyes oft move us , as our own . The Author found it so , for having red Thus farre the story , and a few teares shed With sad Philicia , long'd to know the rest , Hoping that vertuous lovers must be blest . Now if like passion be stird up in you , He has writ well , so have we acted too . Finis .

Scene Britaine . The KING , an enemy to Arviragus . GUIMANTES , the Prince . ARVIRAGUS , in love with Philicia . EUGENIUS , Cosen to Arviragus . GUIDERIUS , son to Eugenius . SINATUS , Lords , & friends to Arviragus CLEANTHES , Lords , & friends to Arviragus ADRASTUS , a Lord , an enemy to Arviragus . CRATUS , Brother to Adrastus . PHILICIA , daughter to the King , and in love with Arviragus . ARTEMIA , daughter to Eugenius , in love with Guimantes . CARTANDES , Queene of the Danes , in love with Arviragus . OSWALD , a Captaine , Cosen to Cartandes , in love with Cartandes . ALDRED , a Danish Captaine . Courtiers . Captains . Ladies . Souldiers . Messengers . Murtherers . Witch . Spirits .

THE SECOND PART of ARVIRAGUS and PHILICIA .

Enter Guimantes and Adrastus . Gui .

THis I confesse , by your advice wee broke the Truce and charged the Enemy , obtain'd the victory , but by that bloody victory were so much weakened , we durst not keepe that field we were masters of .

Ad.

I could not sir fortifie by Divination , the comming of the Danish Army ; but be not sir cast down , what thoe ? they of Scots and Wales , are hasting to your rescue , prompted by generall interest against the Dane our common foe .

Gui .

How know you this ? there 's no Messengers ar●ived .

Ad.

But reason , that should ever governe , does assure it ; for should the Dane once settle here , those Princes soone would be subdued .

Gui .

All this is politickly spoake , in the excuse of your pernicious counsell ; had wee not broake the Truce , the Enemy so soone discovered to be landed , would have knit all in perfect friendship , then Arviragus had beene married to my sister , whose forces joyn'd with mine , and he commanding , victory had beene assur'd against the Danes , hee was their fate , where ere he moved against them , to take revenge upon our false-hood , which false-hood had its ground from thee , thou from the Fiends , from whence all false-hood springs

Exit . Ad.

A does not sure allude unto the Witch , 't is true , from her I had the counsell which I gave him for the Battle , curse on these Danes , could they stay till I were settled in his favour , at least , untill Sinatus and Eugenius were dispacht : ●hu , there is not cause of feare , none but the Witch her selfe , who must seeme accessary , can discover me .

And for the powers below , they love to see , The innocent condemn'd and guilt set free . Exit . Enter Philicia and Artemia . Ar.

Still shall afflictions multiply , is there no end o● sorrowes , untill there likewise be no sence of joy ? hard sta●e of mortals ! thus our creation seemes vaine or unjust .

Phi .

Artemia , doe not thus seeke to defeate the Gods of their delight , let them behold in you their greatest master peece , as by reflex their owne unb●unded excellence , patience , and fortitude , these jewels never shine , but when they are worne ; times of great sorrow , are those uncertaine solemne feasts , the powers themselves attendants there , and if wee by our patience relish what they have set before us , they want not power , nor will to turne those bitters into sweet , whilst wee beleeve that there are Deities , we must beleeve them just and mercifull , so innocence at last shall triumph .

Art.

Madame , what you have said , speakes you indeed divine , and such I ever have esteem'd you , but were you mould of the common clay with use ▪ then you would wish you had neere seene the light , or soone to be eclipst to it : O my unhappy and much injur'd father , in spite of all their malice wee will dye together .

Phi .

I hope for both a better fate , nor will I rest on hope alone , but use my utmost power , if it be possible , adde to your naturall artificiall beauty , and with your brother Guiderius present your selfe before the King , as hee goes to the Temple to sacrifice , who knowes ? his hard heart may be moved to pitty you ▪ at least if he from heaven expect it , for himselfe and State .

Arte .

Madame I shall obey , and for Guiderius , your will gave life to all his actions , but now I feare hee is no more .

Phi .

Ha ; oh speake not that againe , least you become my comforter , as having griefs above you .

Arte .

't is a sad truth , that I must tell you , no sooner did he see the Armie move , and heard it was to charge Prince Arviragus , but fetching a deepe figh , and looking up to heaven , as asking cou●sell there , he straight resolved to sacrifice his life to expiate our fathers fate , the way he 's meant to doe it , was by giving notice of the Kings designe ; how almost beyond hope , it is that hee should passe both watches , or having past scape , when the King proved victor , I leave to your reason , mine tells me I shall never see him more .

Phi .

Would I had no reason , 't was a base wish , would I be freed from sense of suffering , where the cause is such , the danger of two persons so eminent in vertue , to whom my soule is tyed , by all the bands of love and honor ; what tendernesse is this I feele fo● Guiderius ? the danger of Arviragus , was , is for ought I know as great ; no his strong arme and skill in warre will be his guard , unlesse Mars envi●us of his glorie , should take the oddes of might to conquer him , but for Guiderius , both unprovided and unpractised , what will become of him in such a bloody and disordered warre ? but let us hope the best , that vertue and that courage that engaged him in so brave an act of friendship , hath ▪ surely brought him off with safety ; my prayers now and ever , shall attend him .

Arte .

Madame it was his wish , that when ye came to know what he had undertaken , you would pray ▪ for him , and if he perish , shed one teare , but then forget him , who alive , nor dead : would not with your least trouble , buy the greatest happinesse the earth could yeeld to him .

Exit . Eeter Oswald and a Danish Captaine . Cap.

My noble Lord , although the wind set faire , I did not thinke your shippes had beene so ready for the Sea , to bring you hith●● , thus soone from Denmarke , is a most happy passage .

Os.

My sighs and vowes did emulate the wind , and fill'd my sayles , for who could stay behind in peace , having so brave and sweet a Leader to the warre ? O tell me Captaine , how the divine Cartandes brookes , the British ayre , this place and people that she so deadly hates ; does not their Genius backe returne malevolent aspects upon her personall health ?

Cap.

That were enough to eclipse the glory of our hopes , the conquest of this I le could not be ballast with her losse of health , a day .

Os.

An houre , a minute , for shee is all that ever yet was excellent in either se●

Cap.

And equall to such vertue hath her fortune beene since she arrived , for they not long since , were glutted with our blood , and sent our last dead Soveraigne to his grave , with sorrow , for our shamefull losse , have now themselves just , as we landed , ruined by a civill strife , our terrour ( Arviragus ) being the cheefe that did oppose the King , and in the bloody Battle slaine , as some report .

Os.

This is the some of your proceedings , then .

Cap.

Are they not brave and fortunate , promising a happy issue , which that the God of Warre may grant , our Queene , and Leader , performes a vow she made upon her landing , which was to offer up to Mars , by way of Sacrifice , the first prisoner we should take upon the I le .

Os.

It hath beene sometimes practised by most warlike Nations . — harke . —

Loud Musicke . Cap.

't is th'Queene preparing to the solemnity .

Os.

There cannot be a better place for me to kisse her royall hand .

Enter Cartandes , two or three L●dyes and Lords . Car .

Cosin Oswall , most welcome , you have beene diligent , are all your ships well furnisht ?

Os.

Not any thing defective gracious Lady .

Car .

't is well , bring forth the prisoners ; Arviragus and Guiderius brought forth by two Captaines and Souldiers .

Mars grant that they be worthy of thee , the blood of cowards will prophane thy Altars — their formes are promising , how were they taken ? did the manner witnesse their courage , which was first taken prisoner .

Ald.

Both at once .

1. Cap.

Though I shall boast the vigour of this arme , that did subdue the one , and he doubtlesse the braver man , yet briefly thus , the Battles having joyned , and thousand carkasses strowing the earth , or ●ather swimming in the sea of blood , of which I must confesse I drew no part , I found this Gentleman with his sword drawne , warm'd and enraged with former fi●ht , but that I set against his wounds some scratches , so that I count wee m●t on equall tearms .

Car .

Be breefe in your most terrible relation .

Cap.

And please your Majestie there is not much behind , I tooke him prisoner without another stroake .

Car .

Or wound , but those he had before received .

1. Cap.

Your Majestie sayes wondrous true .

Car .

This halfe-dead man cannot be worthy of our sacrifice , at ▪ least untill recov●red of his wounds — which see performed with all your care .

Exit with Arviragus . Guid .

Thankes heaven , O may I be excepted that am unusefull to the world .

Car .

Captaine , speake now how ye became a master of your prisoner .

Aldr.

Madame , not by a single arme , but multitude was hee orecome , nor yet could they have gain'd a victory , but that his care of his distrest and wounded friend , kept him ▪ from traversing his ground , whose side hee never left , resolving an imbrace in death : this I with wonder and delight observ'd , remembring of your vow to sacrifice , and knowing that the persons value most , makes the offering more acceptable , I cast how to preserve that life he sought to loose , rather then quit his sword , and so resolving to receive a wound and close , it tooke the wisht effect , for whil'st I claspt him in mine armes , my Souldiers seaz'd his weapons .

Car .

Thankes fate , and thankes to valiant and carefull Aldred , thou brave young man , whose valour I admire , but must not pitty thy fortune , otherwise then as thou art borne in this cursed I le , beare thy selfe , when thou comes to dye , as nobly as when thou foughtest to free thy selfe , and friend , and thou shalt have an Altar rays'd in a Queenes memo●y , on which perpetuall prayses shall be offered , to appease thy angry ghost .

Guid .

Great Queene know , I should joy to be both Priest and Sacrifice to serve you ; for those you come to take revenge upon , I hate above you , the treacherous aad coward King whom you besiedge ; but since my desires as yours , tend to his , and his Kingdomes ruine , how can I be a proper offering to procure that blessing from great Mars ? I blush least you should thinke I ur●e this from a feare to dye , yet all that have from ▪ ( nature ) being , abhorre a dissolution , but I durst dye , and boldly strengthned by powers that governe nature , yet I should grieve in death , to see so sweet , so brave a Queene , ●o pious to the Gods , so farre mistaken , to draw downe vengeance by the abhomination of her Sacrifice .

Car .

The powers who are , then wee more knowing , seeme to have chosen you , nor dare we to infringe our vow ; yet so much you have won upon us , that wee 'l deferre performance of our vow some dayes , and then your friend and you , if he doe live , shall cast lots fo● your lives .

Guid .

Though you intend this as a mercy , I would not be Monarch of the earth , abide the tryall — in Arviragus , three must dye — your selfe excepted beauteous Queene ; know that I hate your Nation , defie your Mars , and all the powers you worship .

Car .

Ha .

Omnes .

O Impious .

Guid .

Call for your Priest , and let your worst of torments seaze me , I mockt you when I sued for life , and yet death cannot yeeld a happinesse like that I l●ave behind in Arviragus and Philicia ▪

Car .

Is this from feare or from contempt of dea●h , or growes it from a tendernesse of friendship ? it must be so , and I will be resolved , before he dye .

Guid .

Why are ye slow in execution ? sure you doe feare me more then Mars , thus b●und .

Omnes .

Let 's cut him peace ▪ meale for this blasphemie .

Car .

Hold I command you , none dare to usurpe on the Priest office , your zeale is ignorance , this fellow that appeares ●o brave upon the sudden , does it through cunning , or else is growne distracted from apprehension of the torments he 's to suffer , if none of these , yet shall hee die , when hee desires it , no I will meete his cunning with the like , and what I find can most torment him , that he shall be sure to feele , beare him away to prison :

The bodies torment's light , the mind being free , I le make them partners in his misery . Ex. omnes . Enter Artemi● dr●st , Adrastus , the King , Philicia , and a Tr●ine . Adr.

M●ke way there , cleare the Temple doores : what would this Lady ? she must not now trouble the King .

Arte .

I must and will speake to him — Traytor and ●nurtherer : King , when thou kneelest before the Altar , and implores beavens helpe in thy distresse , thinke on Eugenius , whom unjustly thou hast doom'd to dye , else be assured thy prayers turne to curses , from me one plague thou shalt be sure of my father being put to death , I will unclothe my spirit , of t●is earth , which can by place be circumscrib'd , then neither guard nor lockes shall keepe me from thee , but I will ever fright thy guiltie soule , till thou shalt wish like me a dissolution of thy parts , so to become lesse sensuall of torment , yet by that error make thy plagues more horride .

King .

What kind of ▪ spirit 's this , that gain●s pitty by threatning mischiefe ?

Phi .

Kneeles . Sir , with this Lady I must joyne , and to her sute adde good Sinatus pardon , pardon ? I must not call it so , for should I move for them , yet thinke them guilty , I should become an accessarie to the murther of my father , no sir , for certaine they are cleare , I have beene with them both in prison ▪ guilt seldome weares a confidence like theirs , when death 's so neare , who usually plucks off the vizars from dissimulation , heare their cause pleaded by your selfe the judge ; and if they prove not innocent , inflict a punishment for my presumption , equall to their fault .

King .

Rise sister , I grant the sure . But now to you Artemia , thou hast gain'd a power so great , I wish my prayers to the Gods of equall efficacy — on the Temple .

Exit . Manet Adrastus . Adr.

How doubtfull stands my life and fortune ▪ apparant danger circles me round , their innocence can no wayes rise but from apparancy of guilt in me , I tremble with the apprehension ; the Sacrifice once past , the King may give command to keepe me prisoner till the tryall ; ther 's no argument why I should hope his favour , hee never lov'd me in his fathers life , and for his kindnesse now it comes by Sta●res , as from designe not flowing naturall , I am resolved , she that foretold me of the Kings fate , and his Armies likewise , can foretell something of mine :

Guide me infernall powers , and let me be Powerfull on earth , this for eternity . Exit . Enter Cartandus and a Captaine . Car .

Is the plate so ordered , that I may over-deare them , and yet they not perceive me ?

Cap.

I dare not say ye shall heare all , but much of their discourse , unlesse they whisper .

Car .

Then sure I shall be satisfied .

Ex. ambo . Enter Arviragus and the same Captaine . Arv.

Sir , you oblige me every way .

Cap.

't is the Queenes command there should be nothing wanting to the recovery of your health , nor if her vow did not constraine her , would she be so cruell to your friend .

Ar.

That friend you mention sir , I should be glad to see , my losse of blood made me uncapable to know or thanke him , when hee did performe so much in my behalfe , the last passage of my life , that comes cleere within the compasse of my memory , was , that my horse lay so upon me , that I could not stirre , when I received this wound upon my head , ever since all presents it selfe with much confusion to me .

Cap.

Sir , I will leave you to your owne thoughts .

Exit . Ar.

Your servant , — who can this be , that had so great a courage , and so great a care to save from bondage unhappy me , that was within the jawes of death ? perhaps Cleanthus , of all most faithfull , and it were no little joy to know he lives , but the description I had since , and my then dazling eyes , perswade me it was a younger man .

Enter Guiderius and a Captaine . Guid .

This favour that I now receive , takes from the Queene all possibility of being hereafter cruell .

Cap.

I le leave you sir to a full freedome .

Exit . Guid .

O my deare Lord .

Arvi .

Stay , is this a vision , or being reall , how shall I receive thee ? thou art the same in show , as when thou wert faithfull ,

Guid .

Can Arviragus so much injure himselfe to thinke I could be false ? friendship contracted , if on either side it fall , does yet condemne your judgement of the guiltlesse , that made so ill a choyse , but never shall you by my want of faith goe lesse in any circumstance of excellence , but still remaine the joy and wonder of all hearts that know you .

Arvi .

Shall I beleeve this ? didst thou not with thy father , make a forfeit of thy faith , yet I might find a pardon from my love , and the strict obligations of a sonne for that , but thou didst seeke to rob me from a treasure , dearer then my soule , in my Philicia's love , thy guilt augmented by the trust impos'd , and heavens that with thee only were the witnesse of our vowes , must in their justice , lay some heavy punishment on thy false head for ayming at their violations .

Guid .

They cannot adde to what I suffer now , whilst you beleeve me false , and yet should I deny ● love Philicia , it were to injure truth , of which she is the soule , but never can that love grow up to such a pitch , to injure friendship , the master passion , when this heart shall yeeld , althought that renders it unworthy of your love , this hand shall doe a horride justice upon it , and the corrupted person , the mover of such treason .

Ar●

False-hood may beare a brow as smooth as his ; and words thus sleept in oyle , say were you not to have beene marryed to the Princes ?

Guid .

It was so beleev'd by all except our selves , but whilst they did prepare to wish us joy , we found onely in each others faithfulnesse to you , which on my part to witnesse , whom reason I confesse engages to suspition , 't is fit besides the faith of friendship , I cleare my selfe by the same reason , that spotted me with guilt , for else friendship on your part by your suspect , seemes to have suffered , my father wrought on by ambition , a passion powerfull with great soules , I had no power to change nor to forsake , for so I , his sonne leaving him , had added to the oppinion of his guilt , nor durst I , when come to the King , show an aversion ; but as I hopt and prayed , as fast I had the meanes to let my father see his guilt , and by the hazard of my life ( if friendship doe not claime the act ) beg his forgivenes , who will die your faithfull servant , in his behalfe I left the Citty , to warne you of the old Kings death , and that the new King , under security of the Truce sworne , meant to surprise you .

Arv.

It must be truth .

Guid .

Thus whilst impossibilitie forbad , my many obligations did command , but accidents crossing my good designe , I found you not till death had almost seaz'd you , your senses fayling , where by the comming of a Troope of Danish horse , were made prisoners both to the faire and cruell Queene Car●●des .

Arv.

O my Guiderius , thou hast told a story , that whilst I doe with joy and wonder heare , transforme me to the guilty person , that could suspect such faith and noblenesse , why did I thinke Philicias alwayes true , and yet suspect thee to be false , I dare not say thy worth is more then hers , but thou hast left me farre behind , be not ambitious then of such a fame as will beget the envy of the Gods , and make the story of your friendship , when it shall be read , hardly beleeved , from the inequality of worth , the obligations all remaining on thy part , but in despight of partiall fortune , I will doe something that may expresse I would not be ungratefull .

Guid .

What would ye doe ?

Arv.

Thou shalt not dye alone , this bloody and inhumane Queene , had wanted power to make a Sacrifice of thee , but that thy love to me unworthy , had for●'t thee dedicate thy selfe to death , but I will glut her barbarous soule that thirst for humane blood , no Sacrifice can be so proper for the Danes as Arviragus .

Guid .

I doe beleeve indeed , that but to know they had you prisoner , would yeeld more joy to the whole Army , then Mars could grant them for being offered ; but is your hate to me so great , that you would gratifie my murthers with their wish ? it rather would become your wisedome and your courage ( pardon so young a tutor ) to ayme at liberty , by which you might revenge my death , and yet if yee doe finde , as I am confident ye shall , that pity in the Queene strives with her piety to keepe her oath , let her not in a wish feele your revenge , 't is fate then , you can onely quarrell with that , mark't me out the first that should be taken prisoner on the I le .

Ar.

And therefore you must dye .

Guid .

So fate appoints , which should ye ●eeke to alter ; you lay a taxe upon my fortitude , and wrong our friendship .

Ar.

But if it shall appeare you have done this slily , usurpe upon my right , as being first , if not as soone a prisoner , the breach upon your part will show like arrogance , I having more yeeres practis'd the wayes of death with greater frequency , to arme me for the encounter ; had you ( as I did once suspect ) attempted to supplant me , in Philicias love , from her perfections , I could sooner find excuses , then for this intrusion , her falshood could not taint my ho●or , but here in this rivality for death , if it be due , to magnifie a seeming friendship you stucke on me , the brand of fearefull coward , so yeelding up to chance or policy , that little fame that I have purchast , by my losse of blood .

Guid .

O speake not this sir , your pure fame is mounted to a hight that slander cannot reach .

Ar.

't is just , I now suspect your friendship , that dare injure truth , fame that depends upon the breath of men , ●an neere be freed from its Creator ; all we can doe to keepe it pure , is that the ingredients be made up of truth , and then the Gods approve of our ambition : that sacred friendship be not injured ; I am resolved , if you were taken prisoner , first to glory in that confidence , which you shall show in death , and after if it growes within my power , revenge it to the full .

Guid .

Not on the Queene .

Ar.

That as you please , if I be found the proper Sacrifice .

Guid .

You O sir , remember Philicia , you must not thinke of dying .

Ar.

No ▪ yes young man , and when I thinke upon Philicia , I am more ingaged , the Gods destroy not their owne Ordinances , nor bring us unto glory , or to joy , but by the wayes of vertue , honor they have appointed for the soule of all mens actions , and when I fayle in that , can they in justice grant me the continuance of so great a blessing , as Philicia's love ?

Guid .

But with what justice can you seeke to alter that , which truth and fate appoints for me ?

Ar.

Nor truth nor fate are manifest , untill the end of every action .

Guid .

For friendship sake , for all the joyes that you may justly hope for in Philicia , discover not that you are Arviragus , for other right to dye I know you cannot urge , you so shall onely prove a murtherer of your selfe , no wayes deliver me , which you intend ; we both shall die , you in revenge of all the Danish blood , that you have shed , and I , to satisfie the vow .

Ar.

No , I shall satisfie for both , their joy will be so great in their revenge .

Enter Cartandus . Car .

Vaine men , how bootlesse is your strife , did not my owne particular passion sway to an election , both should be sure to dye , yet I am rapt with admiration of your brave and faithfull soules , as having over-heard much of your Stories , and that ye are so excellent , though it increase pitty in me for you , it must likewise inflame me in the exercise of my devotion to great Mars , for now it is apparant , not chance , but the Divinity , prepared fierce Arviragus for his altar , whose blood once spilt by us in way of Sacrifice , shall prove as fatall to this cursed I le , as the Palladiums l●sse was to unhappy Troy .

Ar.

Heaven hath inspired you with their knowledge , I am this Ilands fate , and in your power , the ruine of your nation , if I scape your hands .

Guid .

Great Queene be pleas'd to thinke upon your vow , let not revenge injure your pity , I am the appointed Sacrifice ; the way to conquer all this I le , is to preserve this man alive ; and by so great a favour make him yours , he is the heart , the center of her loves .

Car .

Away with both to prison , all arguments that either yet have us'd to change me , turne to confirmation of my resolution , so farre both are mistaken .

Where power and vertue , grounds of ruine be , Safety would rise from imbecillity . Ex. omnes .

ACT . II . Enter the Witch . Witch .

How dull and heavy are my spirits ! the mischiefe that I doe , yeelds not the sweet delight , that I had wont to feele , how can they , being done by hal●es ? my power grows lesse , some Planet governs now that checks my Art , and why ? the number of my yeeres cannot set limites to my Masters power , great Lucifer must raigne for ever , and unto me whilst I have being on the earth , he hath promist me power by vertue of our contract , I le question with my spirit — Ho , Eglon .

Enter Eglon . Eglon .

Here dread Mistris , what 's your will ?

Wit .

Tell me why all the mischiefes I designe of late move slowly , or when effected yeelds me no pleasure as they had wont .

Egl.

It onely growes from the distemper of your mind , sadness● possesses you of late .

Wit .

It is not that my power is lessened ? I am not obeyed .

Egl.

How , not obeyed ? ye are our Princesse favourite , and hee is onely thought a happy Devill whom you employ , your power is without limite , speake but your wish , and in an instant 't is performed .

Wit .

Remove this sadnesse from me .

Egl.

The peace of soule growes not within our Region , for great minds scorne such calme poore things , proper for Heinds , tempests of soule befits those that have power .

Wit .

I grant this true , but I would have a present calme , to set the glory of tho●e tempests off the better , let me have pleasing objects , Musicke , let every sence be glutted with delight , all that the world can yeeld , to please humanity .

M●sque . Exit . Egl.

Away , all these at once are troublesome , variety can onely please , that gives the soule to all we can possesse , begone and leave me wholly to my selfe .

Enter Adrastus . Adr.

Yonder she sits , although I feare to spe●ke to her , a greater feare comples me hither .

Wit .

Ha , who art thou .

Adr.

Grave Matron doe you not know me ?

Wi .

Now I doe , what would you with me ? speake your will .

Ad.

She 's gentle . — I come not now to know great Prophets , or Kings , but my owne fate .

Wi .

Let me behold thee well , ha thou hast a dr●●d . full looke , that does portend mischeefe to m● , and to thy selfe .

Ad.

To you .

Wi .

Leave me , I doe beseech thee .

Ad.

Be pleas'd to tell me first my fortune .

Wi .

I dare not .

Ad.

Dare not , how she trembles .

Wi .

Be gone , or to the King I will discover you killd his father .

Ad.

Thou badst me doe it , so shal't appeare as guilty .

Wi .

I did not villaine , ther 's horror in his looke , I le call my spirits to defend mee from him , feare takes away my power , nor can I speake a charme .

Ad.

Are ye conjuring ? sure I shall be torne in pieces , speake , name my fate .

Wi .

I will not — cannot .

Ad.

No , take thine owne then .

Kills her . Wi .

Oh Lucifer , false Lucifer , thou hast deceived me — Dies .

Ad.

Ha , can she be dead , she stirres , so now sure she is , and by her death I reape a greater benefit , then what I came for , the knowledge of my end , no creature now can say , I kild the King , vanish all idle feare : since I had power to kill this Witch , I will contemne all danger .

Enter two . Souldiers . 1 Sol .

O My Lord , you are well found , We followed you with all the haste we could .

Ad.

What would you with me ?

So .

The King commands to seize your person .

Ad.

Ha — How suddenly my naturall feare returnes ? Sure I am lost , My noble friends , 't is true , his Majesty is for the present incenst against me , on a Mistake : Which , when I shall have time to cleare , my power will be greater than ever : I dare engage my life , his Majesty himselfe will give you thanks ; in the meane time , accept these trifles from your servant , and say you could not find me .

Sol .

O my Lord , we dare not , so we may answer for you with our heads .

Ad.

Will you not oblige me ?

Sol .

Not at so deare a rate , believe it , your Honour much mistakes , to thinke to Bribe us from our Duty .

Ad.

Well I will follow you .

Sol .

O your Lordship is much the better man , pray lead the way .

Ad.

I will not , I suspect you come to murther mee here in this Wood .

So .

Doe's your owne aptnesse to doe mischiefe make you suspect us ? come along my Lord .

Ad.

I will not , by what authority can you compell me ? you have no warrant .

So .

Yes — this seal'd by the Kings command , and this shall force you to his Presence , dead or alive .

Ad.

There is no remedy — , I dare not fight with both ; Honest Captaines , I doe commend your Faith ; my innocence from any crime , and the Kings Justice , armes me with confidence , how ere I made a shew of feare ; and what I offered as a Bribe , I now reward your truth and Noblenesse . Withall , two officers , and neither will take bribe , shewes slander , and not truth doth brand your Tribes .

Enter Guimantes . Gui .

Thou Deity of Love , then natures selfe more powerfull , I find thy worke in my soule , even to the change of al my faculties , choller that from the smallest sparke occasion gave , wood in an instant grow a flame unto my trouble , and my friends confusion , is by the gentler fire of Love extinguisht quite , and I am pleas'd in nothing more than to forgive my thirst for Arviragus blood , is likewise quencht , my burning Lust changed to a heat ltke that which brings the Votary upon his knees before th' altar , for 't is in vaine to hope till I become in some proportion good to be incorporate with her that is the Essence both of Vertue and of beauty .

Enter Philitia and Art mia in mourning .

See where she comes , divine Artemia , joy in that mourning habit , the outward witnesse of your piety , and this day weare it , till you see intomb'd all the unruly passions of my soule , their deaths is as great a Trophy to your beauty , as those perfections are to nature ; but this day past , unlesse you would againe destroy what yee have made , which were unnaturall , lay by these mourning weedes , Emblemes of sorrow , which ill befits her that commands a Prince .

Ar.

I know not Sir how I have gain'd that power , Nor can I credit whilst my Father is a prisoner .

Gui .

By this hee is not so , or if hee bee , danger shall keepe as great a distance from him as this heart , which I should be more carefull of , were it by you acknowledged yours .

Ar.

I should bee unnaturall in the refusall , were I assured of such a simpathy , for nothing can be dearer to me then his safety .

Gui .

Time shall not number many dayes , ere I remove all possibility of doubt how much I love you : and sister , that you may assist to give her all assurance , Sinatus likewise shall bee freed , whom I am confident , you love for Arviragus sake , as well as his owne Vertue , nay bee my turne , I le leave both to the freedome of loves .

Phi .

Is it possible wee should expect such blessing from you ?

Ar.

Sir I confesse I cannot doubt you .

Gui .

Nor I then , of happinesse more than the world besides , I le straight give order for brave Adrastus proces , Whom I doe more now then suspect did kill my Father , the forme of law to satisfie the world , must not be neglected , let your good wishes guide mee in the service I intend you .

Exit . Phi .

O deare Artemia , all this is counterfeit , lust prompts him to dissemble , hoping so to gaine his ends on thee .

Art.

I doe with griefe believe it , for I confesse I doe not hate his person , but his vice .

Phi .

The love to Arviragus he profest , cal'd all in question : Arviragus thou art I feare above his malice , and doest from heaven laugh at his cunning falsehood , if on the Earth , may thy good Genius keepe thee farre without his reach , his malice is immortall , cannot cease , till vice and Vertue make a peace .

Enter 1. 1.

O Gracious Lady the saddest newes .

Phi .

Speake Sir , I know we are round beset with miseries , but say from whence the storme breakes ▪ first upon us .

From Arviragus death , the best oF men .

Phi .

Oh.

Though yet 't is true he is not dead , 't were vaine in me to seeke to comfort you , his fate is so certaine , hee 's taken by the Danes , design'd for sacrifice , and they to him have so much cause of hate , that should the Gods command the contrary , of that they seeme to have decreed , and all mankind ioyne in the suit , they would not save him .

Phi .

O 't is too certaine , ill newes is seldome false ; but how came you to this unhappy knowledge ?

One of the Danish Centinels was taken prisoner , that declares this .

Ar.

Rumours are often false .

This is too true , withall hee tels us of a youth , which strives with Arviragus which should dye , and paints him forth so lively , both in the bravery of his mind , and beauty of his person , that sure it is Guiderius your Brother , and my beloved Kinsman .

Art.

Ah me , my Brother , poore Guiderius , my soule presaged thy ruine .

Phi .

Though Arviragus danger fill my heart with sorrow , yet I am bound to offer this addition , and sure my heart grows deader then it was , although not from encrease , yet from the assurance of my misery , beyond which , what a mockery will it be to live my Brothers scorne ? besides , I must endure , for wee 'l his large possessions show , he knew of this before : I am resolv'd , as yet I have done nought but ▪ take a little to expresse I loved , they bleed and bleed , yet I am idle : Artemia thou seemest strucke dead with the sad newes , it hath shot it selfe quite through thy tender soule , and well such sorrowes do become thee thus melt thy self away .

I have no teares , weepe for thy selfe and me , When so expir'd , I le mourne for me and thee . Exit . An Altar rais'd . Enter Cartandes , Arviragus brought in . Car .

Great Mars ; behold the sacrifice thou didst appoint , before thy Altar stands , and from the Vally of th' offering , poure downe a blessing on thy Votarie , and these assistant , this is that man for whose sake thou so long hast frownd upon our Nation , making this I le a Sepulcher for Danes , be reconciled wee besee●h thee , and accept our Vowes , let vs by him obtaine Revenge against our foes , and a full Conquest of this Land , halfe ruinated by their Civill strife .

Omnes Great Mars , we doe beseech thee grant her suit and ours .

Car .

Have at thy heart bold Pict .

Ar.

Strike thou inhumane Tygresse .

Car .

I have no power to strike ( I cannot ) sure some Divinity holds backe my hands , on the sudden does inspire me with a true knowledge of his will , whispers to my soule , the way to be revenged vpon our Saxon for , and gaine the I le , is to preserve this valiant Prince , the favorite of Mars , still I am prompted to this thought , and now me thinkes even Mars himselfe , did he appeare unto our humane eyes , could not command from me a greater reverence ; doth not an awfull Majesty shine round about him ? it doth , and I am impious to strive so long against a heavenly inspiration : For what but a Divinitie would change , could change the mortall hatred I bore to Arviragus , even in the instant , whilst I long'd for his hearts blood , which now shall bee the first of all my faculties , employed to serve him .

She unb●nds him . Cap.

The Queene is certainely inspir'd .

Ar.

What shall I thinke of this ? am I not mock't ?

Car .

Receive this sword , and if you find this my respect not reall , then take revenge by making me a sacrifice , — and now to you my valiant Souldiers , for my sake , for obedience to th' Gods , Whose substitute I am , and so best know there will convert like me , your hatred to this Prince , to such a Love , as may beget perfect obedienee , and in reward , I in the name of Mars , and all the powers assure your wishes : but lest there should be some , inward soules cannot as yet conceive or relish this our present happinesse , but must make reason the sole foundation of their Faith , as scorning all superiour or misterious working of the Gods , even unto such wee yeeld what they desire sufficient reason for our present act .

Ar.

What shall I thinke of this ?

Car .

How nere was your last King my Brother , to the master of this I le , When Arviragus , then a youth , gave check unto his many Victories , making it known then first , the Danes were not invincible , for till that time , ten Danes , where ere they met , would chase double the number of the Ilands , but now his vertue hath so shot it selfe through all the inhabitants , he being their leader , that we have onely landed to bring our lives and goods as tribute , and as Trophies to inrich his fame : it is apparent then , that all the force , and vertue lay within his powerfull arme , nor can wee doubt of victory , having those strengths applied in our behalfe that was so prevalent against us , and for his faithfulnesse to us , we cannot doubt , the Saxons have betrayed him ▪ in reward of all his favours , we for a thousand mischiefes hee hath done , not onely grant him life , but leave our owne to be disposed of by him .

Cap.

What the divinity commands , and you inform , it is our duty to obey .

Os.

Your vertue and your Wisedome , divinest Lady , governes our wils as persons .

Om.

Our happinesse is chiefly plac't in you , and fit you should appoint the way unto it .

Car .

Then here with the consent of all , wee doe commitful power touching the War , to him that hither , to hath beene the great disposer of it .

Ar.

Wonder thus long hath seal'd my lips , and though necessity inforce me to speake , it l●ss●ns not my admiration , if your intent be reall , as reason yet inforces me to doubt , I must not undertake that power you would conferre , but upon these conditions , first that all Picts , be free and sharers in your conquest , next that all Saxons , who shall yeeld themselves , whole cities or particular persons may bee received as friends unto the Danes , and me their generall ▪ this granted , I receive my charge , and vow by the immortall . Deities , perfect obedience to her ▪ whose bounty gives me life and power to right my selfe on these , whose falsehood sought to take it from me .

Car .

This we must grant in reason , your Picts wil be no little strengthning , and for such Saxons as shall yeeld themselves , they are as yours , and worthy of all favour , tremble false King , 't is not thy City wals can defend : the ports will open flye , if Arviragus once approach their eye , whose hearts he doth command .

Thy subjects but in name , His , conquer'd by his vertue and his fame . Enter Guiderius . Guid .

Shee is not fairer then Philicia , nor doth her mercy shewed to me , and Arviragus expresse her soule more noble , why then should shee be entertain'd with willingnesse to rule this heart , wheras my reason , Vertue , all my faculties , where ever summond up to make resistance , gainst the assaults made by Philicias merits , but here how pleasing is the wound , how sweet the Bondage , why is it so , unconstant that I am , how ever friendship , so Vertue barr'd me the expression of my love in earnest , or any wish to be beloved againe , yet so much of my heart was allowed for passion to a woman , my secret Vowes and inclination ingaged it to Philicia , and that for ever , yet now , false that I am , I feare I love Cartandes better , thus I am made by doubt unworthy , so much as respect , from either . Love is above mine hope , as farre as I am below them in merit : Even Arviragus selfe , a Prince , whose worth and fame's , so great , that conquers whilst a Captive could not deserve the love of either Philicia or this Queene , by lesse engagement then his heart entire , and shall I dare to offer mine by h●lves , a sacrifice to them and love ? Pardon thou Deity , t is not want , but excesse of Love , begets irresolution , which time and vertue will decide , that done :

None did or ever shall so fully prove , By Faith and zeale divinity of love . Exit . Enter Philicia in the habit of a man , and Liriana . Phi

This happinesse by much exceedes our expectation , resolving to be taken prisoners , wee find all freedome in the Campe .

Li .

It is true , nor is there any fear of Arviragus being sacrificed , but rather there are Altars raising unto him as to a God , by this is evident the power of Princes .

Phi .

Rather the power of vertue , whose eminence in Arviragus compel'd this Queene spight of her vow , and former hatred , to save his life , and yeeld all power into his hands , and though her own ends I must think , did move her chiefly , she does deserve from me all love and service .

Enter two Danes . 1.

Let all avoyd this place , the Queene is comming hither .

Phi .

Sir , may it be permitted to a stranger only to see the Queene ?

You may as she passe by .

Phi .

Many thanks sir .

Enter Cartandes led by Arviragus , ●uiderius ▪ Cleantes . Car .

Most Noble Arviragus , we now begin to taste our selfe the sweetnes of the mercy show'd to you , for by the vertue of your person and command our Army is encreast , men and all provision above your wish and delight , since it proceeds from you : and for this Gentleman your friend , an attribute which does include all worth , we likewise hope he will beleeve ther 's no favour we can grant , but we shall thinke we doe our selfe an honor , in conferring it on him .

Guid .

Great Queene , he that does hold his life by your free guift , should show he scarce beleeved a thanks were due , if he in words should thinke to pay the debr , fortune may yeeld a danger worthy the undertaking some action , that may try a heart devoted to your service , then if my acts speaks not my gratitude , let me be scorn'd by your divinest selfe , & hated by that friend , for whose sake you esteeme me .

Car .

We doe beleeve more then you can expresse , and must desire you in the same kind , will oblige us too : Prince Arvigarus , we must desire a private conference with you , touching astaires of importance .

Exit , manet Guiderius ▪ Cleanthus & Philicia . Ar.

I wait your Majesties command .

Leads out the Queene , kisse her hand . Guid .

Worthy Cleanthus , what happinesse is this we doe injoy above our hopes ?

Cle .

How much the working of the heavens exceed our apprehensions , that when we thought destruction neere , their providence had so prepared , to make the Battles losse , the meanes of greater happines .

Guid .

It was no little blessing , but to know that there was such a Queene , a Lady of so brave a mind , so beautifull a person , but then to have the meanes to know and serve her , is a happinesse above all else the world can yeeld .

Exit . Phi .

I am not knowne to Arviragus , or Guiderius , nor doe I thinke I ever shall be , not to my selfe , I feare Philicia is not what she was , for is it possible I can be jealous of Arviragus faith to me ? I am not jealous , 't is a just feare , begot by reason the beauty of the Queene , her power , her merits all applyed to him , in the most noble way , besides the rumour that seldome is a friend to innocence , had reason on 't s side to render me inconstant , my marriage to Guiderius , how strange a turne is this in fate ? I came to die for Arviragus , having first reveng'd his blood upon a barbarous Queene ; but now a Queene to courteous , and a living Arviragus , kill all my joyes , and leave me not the possibility or measure of revenge , for if he judged me false , as sure he did , he is not so , although he love Cartandes , who then is guilty of my miserie , Philicia or her cruell fortune ? fortune if it be thou ; 't is but thy usuall practice , but if my jealousie doe prove unjust ,

Then I create a monster to destroy my selfe . Barks fraught with love soone split upon this shelfe . Exit . Enter Cartandes and Arviragus . Car .

The affaire we are to treate of in which you are to give your counsell and assistance , concernes the life , honor , and happines of one I highly prize .

Ar.

The least of these engages all my powers .

Car .

I Pray view that picture well .

Takes a Picture out of her bosome . Ar.

It is a face I have been well acquainted with , or rather one that 's not unlike it , sure 't is not mine , it cannot be , if so , how came she by it ?

Car .

Doe ye not know the face ?

Ar.

Madam , 't were arrogance to thinke it mine , considering where you kept it .

Car .

Be not a greater friend unto civility then truth : were it not Arviragus picture , I should as much containe my selfe for wearing it , as I doe honour him , I see ye are amaz'd , and ye have cause , bee pleas'd to sit , whil'st I relate a story , that will unriddle all my actions , and chase this wonder from you .

Ar.

Madam , I shall with such a reverence hearken , as if a Deity would to a curious mortall unshadow some much covered mysterie .

And in the plaine and simple dialect of truth , I le lay my heart naked before you . — When to my brother still , the sad newes came of such defeates as here his men received , ( and you the Authour ) his hate to you unjustly , did not grow so fast , as my esteeme waranted by vertue , since what you did , was in defence , both of your Prince and Countrey , yet the first sparkes of love , tooke fire from emulation , wishing my selfe a man , that in a combat I might loose ray life , or take from you those glorious spoyles , that even your enemies were forc't to dresse you in that thought , though vaine , yet prompted to a curiosity more fruitfull , which was to see what forme he bore , that in his acts of courage and humanity , so farre exceed all , and this was by obtaining your picture satisfied , but from that satisfaction grew so great a flame that emulatious curiosity were lost in it , and now it was no wonder , that the substance , by that shadow represented should conquer all , when my proud heart was made a captive from the sight of it : to hide this love , I often was obliged to heare my brothers curses , uttered against this I le and you , nor did I sticke at last , to faine a hatred equall to his , which he beleeving reall , at his death engaged me in a promise , of passing with the Army then in readinesse into this I le ; appointed that inhumane sacrifice to Mars , for good successe , the unhappy lot fell on your friend and you , and by my cunning , no other inspiration of a Deity , then that of love , you were preserved , nor can I thinke indeed , that any other is so powerfull , since it h●th made me , whom Kings have sued for , thus to relate the passions of my soule , and seeme to beg releefe from one my mercy hath preserved .

Ar.

Let such a faith , and such a reverence as wee doe bring to heare an Oracle , cleare me of vanity , though I beleeve the story of your fore past love , which by another told , would seem a fable invented to abuse a credulous eare , but reason , which justly circles me with wonder , assures me , that by this you see the power of fame and fancy , and quickly will releeve your selfe from their abuse .

Car .

How meane you by that ?

Ar.

This shadow hath some resemblance , but marke well , and you shall find the Painter gross●ly flattered ; but fames abuse , y●ur selfe can witnesse be●● , she to your eare alwayes delivered me a Conquerer invincible , drest in the spoiles of others , but when truth shall informe how you have ever seene me , yet fame showes a lowder lyer then the Painter , the Battles losse , after the which , I proved a prisoner , justly takes from me the opinion of a Leader , suffering my selfe to be surprized , and beaten by an enemy , which I contemn'd ; but could you see my mind , which doubtlesse , you beleeved compos'd of vertue , how much I am defective , what falshood I am guilty of , how subject to ingratitude , even where I have beene most obliged ; you then must make another judgement , and with reasons helpe conclude , that I am rather worthy of your scorne or pitty , then your love : fame having played the Mountebancke , and I although not guilty , yet the mature subject of her falshood , that worthlesse peece , for which you were to pay your heart ; a Iewell which all the vertue , fames and excellence of the world cannot without the free addition of your bounty purchase .

Car .

You that ta●e fame of falshood , should your selfe feare to undergoe that censure , the world testifying upon her side against you , but for your secret faults , 't is true the conscience is a thousand witness●s , if not , I do already see so farre , I durst condemne you for ingratitude and folly , since you refuse a tender of that heart you so much magnifie , yet it had beene a greater injury to love , a greater torment to my selfe , to have conceal'd longer a passion justifiable to the world , since placed on him whom all love and admire : but having thus breathed forth my passion , enlarged it to your knowledge , I hope I shall ( unles you joyne ) in time , w●thdraw much of the fewell that maintaines loves fire , and with the generall world admire your vertues onely .

Exit Cartandes . Ar.

She 's gone in passion , and with me shee leaves no little portion of her trouble , I wish her hate to me had not beene counterfeit , the sacrificing knife could not have caus'd a paine like the distraction I doe feele , from the relation of a love so Noble , whose every circumstance addes luster to the owner , and layes an obligation Vpon me , the object of that love so great , that time , torment , nor Death cannot deface , and yet I must not love her as a Mistresse , that were not gratefull , but injurious , since breach of faith unto Philicia must render me unworthy , and she deserves the best blessings humanity can yeeld —

In this destraction who shall be my guide , Ingratitude doth threaten here , and on this side , Falsehood in love , if I to either yeeld , Vertue is slaine and passion wins the field , Oh rather let this heart , where the field's fought , By their contention be confum'd to nought .

ACT . III . Enter Eugenius and Sinatus as i● prison . Eug .

Sinatu● , whether shall we believe this our enlargement in the prison , to see and speake with who we please , is granted as a farewell to the world , or a prologue to prepare a way for a full feedome both of our persons , and from the slander that hath lane so heavy on us .

Sin .

Doubtlesse my Lord , our inno●ence is known , Adrastus questioning declares no lesse , to whom if they doe offer t●rtures , as it is reported , upon my life hee will confesse , though it should cost his head , cowards so apprehend the present paine , that it confounds their present judgement , to force a future , although greater .

Eug .

How ever , should we dye , since innocent , that griefe will not be balanc't by the joy , to know our deaths shal be revenged by Arviragus , who hath ful powers both of the Danish Queene , and her most puissant Army , feare of our danger makes our present usage better , not that the King can change his eruell nature , his smile I ever must suspect as dangerous , unlesse I could forget who was his Father .

Sin .

I must confesse I doe not thinke him the best of men , yet till his envy to Arviragus grew to a hight , he was a hopefull youth , and aim'd at generosity , but being of a haughty Spirit , and over-mastered by the others merits , he scorn'd it seemes to be a second , and therefore chose a different way , though much the worse , perhaps those sparkes of vertue are but smothered : not put out , and ill successe in vice , a mercy in the Gods may make them yet breake forth a glorious flame , to warme each subjects heart with ioy , may I but live to see that day , I might conclude him Vertuous , although I died the next , it would not grieve me .

Eug .

I must confesse 't is piety in you that are his subiects , to hope and wish this , but as for me that am anothers in heart , and by my birth , with whom it is impossible hee can be reconcil'd , I cannot wish him so much happinesse to grow better , 't is impossible his thoughts are now b●●t on a base designe , the ruine of my daughters honour , before attempted , and doth he thinke that heaven , and a Fathers eyes pierces not through all clouds , that by his cunning can be cast before us ?

Sin .

In all your feares , I hope yee are mistaken , we must allow to man , repentance of his ills , or else the powers must want that attribute of mercy which they delight in , and by the which , they are most magnified .

Enter Artemia with a Letter in each hand . Ar.

I will againe peruse them ere I yeeld beleefe to either . My fathers letter first .

Letter . So may a hungry Lion crouch and bow , Till by that crost , he get within his power That pray which he intends for to devoure : Lust often makes , but seldome keepes a vow . That Bird that scapt the snare unppityed dies , If it stay gazing on the Fowlers eyes .

Can there be any thing in this other , knowing the falshood of the man , knowing from whom it comes , to hinder my obedience , to this warning of my fathers ? yes , there is pleasing falshood in it , this though all reason speake it truth , 't is a hard text , but yet must be obeyed ; which that I may , in pieces I will ●eare this charme , and yet it were but fit , that I againe should read it , so in mind to register his falshood , which may incite me to a full revenge , for all mine and my fathers wron●s , when time shall grant us power : 't is better teare it , yet no , I must read it once againe .

Letter . What you have read exprest by inke , If you misdoubt my love will not make good , Such cruelty will change the inke to blood . Guimantes . — Oh cruell fate , that all this should be false , 't is false , 't is false , which thus I will revenge . Teares it : Enter King . King .

Decrest Artemia , in so great passion ! what guilty paper is it you punish ?

Art.

I should my Lord perhaps have spared the paper , had the sender bin as innocent .

King .

It was my feare — Takes up the pa●ers . Can ye be faithlesse yet ? oh love , how false thy comforts a●e : when shall I dare to hope a recompence , when yet my sufferings have not gain'd beleefe ?

Art.

It were preposterous , nay impossible , for the effect to be before the cause .

King .

What cruelty is this to speake , as if you could beleeve I could not love ?

Art.

It were a cruelty unto my selfe , greater then you can name , to wish you should .

King .

Why should a Princes love be so offensive ?

Art.

A Princes love next that to heaven , is it all mortals covet , nay most fix , there , and looke no further : but as the purest things , if once corrupt , become of meanest valu● , so Princes favours , which are onely seemings , not firme and reall in their substance , are like the deadlyest poysons to be shun'd , especially by women , but I am arm'd by former wrongs , so fortified against your vowes , that could you by your showes of passion deceive the Gods , and so ingage them as the sureties of your faith , I rather would flie off from their obedience , as ignorant defective powers , then yeeld unto an amity with one that 's opposite to all that 's true , or noble .

King .

It is against my will that I am opposite to truth or noblenesse , for I would ●aine an interest in your selfe , so to ●articipate of all perfection , nor could I thinke , for such a purchase my Crowne could be too deare a prize , if you which yet you not beleeve , should not become a looser by it , and know cruell Artemia , if neither time , nor yet the services I shall doe , can make you see the truth of my affection , I will like you grow marble ; be more cruell to my selfe then you can wish , my heart which whil'st I love you I must cherish your picture , being there inshrin'd , shall from the madnesse of my passion and despaire , bee ript before you , that you there may read unjust suspition fooled you to a deed of horror , whose guilt shall make you ever wretched , this by the sacred powers , I will performe .

Art.

Can this be yet dissembled ?

King .

But if you can looke on me with the eyes ●● reason , and that produce a pitty of my sufferings , thinke but how welcome will such mercy be , and my poore heart scortch , with the beams , that shoot from those bright eyes , shall like the parched earth sucke up the heavenly comforts you let fall , then shall you glory in my faith , my gratefull soule unto ●t selfe record , the sweetnesse of your pittie ; from , and to both will rise a spring of joyes , which shall ●or ever flourish .

Art.

If I be mistris of that power which you professe , it will not be ill manners though I leave you .

King .

But there is in it much of cruelty unlesse you bid me love , that I may live .

Art.

Doe justice to my father and Sinatus , which is to cleare them , and when you returne , I will pronounce your sentence , if ye be mine so much , as you professe , I am to signe your passe-port to the Elisium shades .

King .

't is not to be denied , for your must there become the matter of my blisse , without you that Paradise were hell .

Enter Cartandes Guiderius and others . Os.

What answer will it please your Majestie to give the Herald , who from the besieged King desires safe conduct for an Embassadour ?

Car .

What answer will I give , why knowes not Oswa●d , on whom I have confer'd all power ? let him attend Prince Arviragus .

Os.

To make your selfe a stranger to a businesse of this nature , were to forget your safety .

Car .

Oswald , to teach your Princes is to forget your duty ; when Arviragus shall neglect or injure me in what he stands en●aged , let the Gods likewise cast me from their care , for rather let me perish , then mistrust his vertue , go and attend his will , we would be private , Guiderius you may stay , —

Exeunt Oswald and others ▪ Guid .

I shall attend your Highnesse .

Car .

Arviragus faith 's engaged unto another , and that 's the cause , hee entertaines my love , with so much coldnesse ; his answers all were sharpe civilities : I le see i● I can from Guiderius attaine a perfect knowledge , if I be not mistaken he can hardly deny me any thing , nor does he nor any know more then by guesse , that I love Arviragus . — Guiderius , if Arviragus doe consent , who doe you thinke the King will send to treat , or what may we conceive will be his message ?

Guid .

Madam , both are beyond my meane conjectures .

Car .

Rather ye are reserved , wee should have answered you with greater freedome .

Guid .

Madam , I shall be miserable , if you beleeve I should not glory in obedience to your least commands , more then in being master of all other power that did not tend unto your service .

Car .

Certainely , you Picts and Saxons have a custome of professing , and never feare you should be taken at your word , we Danes are rude , but yet more faithfull , scorning to speake but what we wish should be beleeved .

Guid .

Were it the use of others , yet it is not so with me , or were it , you are a Divinity , to whom I durst not speake or seeme , but what in truth , I am one that beleeves no blessing like your fav●ur .

Car .

How shall I trust this ? suppose that Arviragus should enjoyne one thing , and I the contrary , your friendship unto him , would make you unto me prove disobedient , see then how farre your protestations are above your power or resolution .

Guid .

I know that he 's so much yours oblig'd by all your favours , that when he knew what were your pleasure , he soone would cease to have a will , other then what should waite on yours .

Car .

Since you evade this supposition , as you thinke , I will a little vary it ; put case you have a Mistresse , rather your friend , for I esteeme you one , this Mistresse does command you , or your friend , what I approve not , how then shall you obey , without the breach of faith ?

Guid .

When you shall make me happy by commanding , I shall not lose that blessing by my disobedience .

Car .

It seemes onely your friend then hath a Mistris .

Guid .

Madam , that does not prove he hath , that I have none , whom I dare stile so .

Car .

This your equivocation makes me now in earnest , and shall no longer save you from falshood , or disobedience .

Guid .

What meanes the Queene ?

Car .

Did Arviragus ever love ?

Guid .

He hath .

Car .

Whom doth he now love best .

Guid .

That 's more then I can say , since hee hath seene an Argument so powerfull to beget a change .

Car .

Doe you beleeve my beautie is so great , ●o stagger such a faith as his ?

Guid .

Madam , I have cause , and yet I judge that beauty the least part of your perfections .

Car .

It would be no little happinesse I see , to have that person I should love , receive my Character from you .

Guid .

Not from my flattering tongue , but could my heart be read , and that he might equall the patterne of respect there set before him , there were no other cause of feare , but an offence against the Deities , by your rivality with them , witnesse by your devotion of your victory .

Car .

Does all of your Country speake in this obliging way ?

Guid .

All that speake truth , and speake of you , can say no lesse .

Car .

I le try the conversation of some others , and if I finde them such , still when I would be flattered , I will admit of none , but those borne in this I le .

Guid .

Indeed , the policy would not be ill , for by conversing , you might conquer without bloodshed .

Car .

Why , doe you thinke I should so oft be in your humour to be flattered ?

Guid .

It were not in your power to be so , if all like me spoke but their thoughts , 't is not the hearer , but the speaker makes the flattery , no more can you be flatter'd when I prayse , then when wee pay to heaven our best devotion , since truth , but with some difference gives to both their motion .

Car .

But yet I must not thinke you by this oyly way , obtaine so strickt a friendship with Prince Arviragus .

Guid .

Certaine no other , how-ever you are pleas'd to terme it , for how can friendship knit without professions be made really , or they but where there 's love , and faith , and love to entertaine those offers , then does two soules unite , from whence doth rise to Gods and men , such joyes , as none can speake , that have not entertained the blisse of love or friendship , those I count on , yet love the more refin'd , as being that great happinesse the wise Creator made for us , but friendship betwixt man and man , hath some defects , which proves it is our owne election .

Car .

It seemes a friendship then twixt you and me , or rather Arviragus and my selfe , for the equality , would give a luster , might raise much happinesse to us and others ? I see this moves you by this silence , seeme to contradict what you proposed , as the most happy amitie , are we not man and woman , equall in birth , in worth as I doe gather from your praise , and love to both , why then should we not joyne in perfect friendship ?

Guid .

Vertue may command the contrary , you are perhaps engag'd .

Car .

To none so much as him .

Guid .

If he were free when first he saw you , it is impossible but in his soule he b●gs this honour , you propos'd , if well observed , you by his sighs and sad lookes , emblemes of pure devotion , shall soone perceive your selfe the Saint that he adores .

Car .

I yet am ignorant , what kind of sighs or sad lookes you doe meane .

Guid .

Like those you may observe sometimes in me .

Car .

But you professe to have no Mistris , so yours and consequently his must needs be conterfeit , nay so is all mankind in their professions , which since I know , have not so meane a thought of me as to beleeve the least of what I spoke for earnest , yet thinke not but I highly prise Arviragus merits , nor am I ignorant of yours , or the respect you pay me , but as for love , my breeding in the Warre , hath frighted from me such soft things , unlesse as now I entertaine discourse of it , to set off glo●ious Warre in the full luster , this siedge growes tedious , I wish ,

We either might assault , or else assailed be , Nothing 's so much irksome as uncertainty . Gui . Think Madam then , what torment they endure , That needs must dye , yet of that time unsure , And if your payne , rise from uncertainetie , Then pitty such , if but from sympathie . Exit . Enter Oswald , Aldred , a Captaine . Os.

This confidence the Queene expresses in Arviragus , makes evident she dotes in love , how ever she pretends onely a respect due unto his worth , there is no question she will marry him , and we shall all become his slaves .

Ald.

My Lord this language ill becomes your duty , ●or is it wisedome in you , 't is not the neerenesse of your blood that could excuse you from the Queenes anger , and justly should the greatest punishment fall on you , that are ungratefull for the blessings we receive by Arviragus government .

Cap.

Most certaine , we are all most happy in our Generall

Os.

You are all most happy in the gift of flattery , and ignorance , I could almost wish what I feare , that we might be betrayed , to have you punisht , for my part I beleeve that Arviragus and Sinatus , the Kings Embassadours , are in their secred counsell , setting downe the ruine of the Danes , which is as easily wrought , as to reconcile the Picts and Saxons , a wondrous worke indeed , since all of one I le and faith .

All.

O my Lord , your feares are vaine , ther 's neither will nor power .

Os.

The will is apparent , by the secret conference , although the Queene her selfe refused to heare the Embassadour , yet why were we her Counsell nor admitted , but all negotiated in private , as if the Danes , were not concernable , because a Pict is Generall .

All.

But if that Pict be in his vertue , judgement without his equall , and have engaged his honour for our safety , what should we feare , but lay those by , yet there are other tyes to bind him fast , a Kingdome , and a Queene , the very hope but of possessing whom , is more then to be a Monarch of the earth besides .

O● .

Oh.

All.

This pinches my Lord , whose vanity doth make him hope one day to get the Queene and Kingdome for himselfe , that hope thus crost , begets these murmurings against the Queen and Arviragus .

Cap.

Most certainely it doth .

Enter Arviragus and Sinatus . Ar.

When I have made these propositions known unto the Queene , an answer shall be sent unto the King , in the meane time no hostile act must passe on either side , on forfeit of our honours .

Sin .

't is our agreement , which shall be observed .

Exeunt Sinatus ▪ Ar.

How narrow is the path I am to tread , I have engaged that faith now to Sinatus , that to Cartandes was engaged before — and I must injure neither , nor shall it need , yet make my selfe most happy .

Enter Cleanthes .

Now Cleanthes .

Cle .

Sir there is a Pictish youth , that hath beene most importunate to speake with you .

Ar.

What is he ?

Cle .

He seemes by many particulars which he tells , to have beene long acquainted with me , yet I confesse I cannot call him to memory , but sure henceforeward , I shall not forget him , he is every way so singular : will you heare what he would say ? and I dare almost promise , what so ere it be , you shall be pleas'd with him , if not with it .

Ar.

Bring in this rarity .

Cle .

I shall sir .

Enter Philicia . Ar.

A lovely youth indeed , yet but one eye , nature it seemes , fearing she had bestowed too much perfection upon one , to pacifie her injured children , darkened the splendor of the worke , or rather fortune envying the glory nature should receive , opposed her strength , to lessen this so excellent a piece . — I am informed ye are a Pict , and that you have desired to speak with me .

Phi .

't is truth , with this addition , that our confer nce may be private , since what I have to say , may happily concerne your life .

Ar.

My life , 't is indeed a weighty busines , and me thinks , should not come within your managing .

Phi .

The greatest somtimes may have use even of the meanest hearb or simple that doth grow , to heale a wound , or by its mixture , cure some malady , why then should you beleeve one of the sons of men , for whom the best , and all the creatures had their beings , should not be capable to doe you such a service , as might merit your attention , and onely yours .

Ar.

Sure I have heard this voyce before — yes gentle youth , though thou brought'st danger , as thy promises speaks safety , I would give thee hearing , were i● the businesse of a day , thou hast to speake , leave me Cleanthes — Now speake —

Exit Cleanthes . Phi .

First , you must be so much a friend unto your selfe , to thinke me such , and from that conference discover the message , that Sinatus brought you from the King , your answer backe to him , nay more your present resolution in that point .

Ar.

But can you thinke I will doe this upon your bare profession ?

Phi .

You must doe more , or else I cannot serve you .

Ar.

More cannot be .

Phi .

Yes , I would know touching Cartandes love and yours , and after marriage , where you meane to make abode , in Britaine , which will soone be conquered , or else returne with her to Denmarke . —

Ar.

Thou dost amaze me with this folly Cleanthes .

Phi .

Stay — heare me out , and if what now appeares like folly , proves not reason , then let me feele your anger .

Ar.

Be briefe then , I must leave you else

Phi .

So , weary of my company , Aside .

Even through this cloud , if he ●ere not inconstant , the simpathie of love will show his force . — Weeps .

Ar.

Why does he weepe , what meanes this sorrow ? if it growes from me , your strange demands are onely guilty : or can I lay my heart open to one I saw before .

Phi .

Ye may , when ye doe know the pawne I will engage for service .

Ar.

What pawne ?

Phi .

My life , when you have laid open your mind to me , and what I then shall speake you not approve , or feare I shall discover , rip up my heart , and see the truth of my intent : or if such crueltie you like not , keepe me where I shall never see mankind , but your mistrustfull selfe .

Ar.

This were a way indeed to be secured .

Phi .

If so , for your owne safety be perswaded , can you beleeve I should doe this , without some grounds of reason ?

Ar.

Thou hast ore come , and I will lay my heart open , but be assured , if I doe find thee triviall , I shall inflict the punishment thou do●st propose .

Phi .

Else you shall doe an injury to me .

Ar.

Stay there —

Fetches in a head .

See here Adrastus head , who often did attempt to murther me , now sent by the King as witnesse of his love , and reconcilement withall , I by Sinatus am invited to leave Cartandes , and joyning with Guimantes , and the other Princes of the I le , chase hence the Danes , and for a recompence of this , which i● it selfe admits of a dispute , he superads a hapinesse , which but to thinke upon , makes my glad soule enjoy a heavenly blisse .

Phi .

And mine — speake but the ground of all joy , and I am satisfi'd .

Ar.

't is to be more then Monarch of the earth , by possessing my Philicia .

Ph.

You Gods let me no longer live , if I must change this ioy to feele the paine of jealousie again — Sounds .

Ar.

What flood of passion's this , I see he 's no conterfeit , Cleanthus , hoe Cleanthus .

Enter Cleanthus .

He recovers , speake gentle youth , how doest thou ?

Phi .

Well — so well , I scarcely can be better — O my deare Love , doest thou not know me ?

Ar.

Ha deare Love ! joy & amazement strive within me , againe name but that word of love , and let mee loose to such a joy , as must know a bounds — 't is she , O my Philicia ! could a disguise like this , hide thee from me , pardon , O pardon such a dulnesse .

Silent actions of passions , kisse her hand . ●h .

Cleanthus sees , and shame confounds me now as much as joy , O let me hide my selfe , the habite I have on , I feare will make me blush to death .

Ar ,

You need not feare his eyes , whose heart is ●ine .

Phi .

That you your selfe should see me in the habite of a man , would much displease , did I not glory in the cause , that made me put it on , to die with you or worke your safety , which safety now is threatned more then ever , you must not yeeld unto the Kings desires , he 's false , and seeks your ruine too plainely , witnesse since he offers me as your reward , yet knew I was not in his power ro give ; feare of his false-hood made me presse to speake with you , although I thought to find you most unconstant , pardon that jealousie , whole working hath conduced much to your happinesse and mine ; but I am frighted still to looke upon this habite , yet knowne to be Philicia .

Arv.

O Dearest Lady , where can there be a way left in the power of fortune for me to quir these obligations ▪

Phi .

How will doe these professions suit our loves ?

Where faith is once ingag'd all acts are due , If either think they can oblige , they are not true .

ACT . IIII . Enter Cartandes . Car .

I le teare this Arviragus from my heart , assist me reason in so just a cause , canst thou be wanting ? thou flatterest too ; perswaded me : love told me that vertue was in him most eminent , and such an eminence onely becomes Cartandes to affect : but , tell me now , does it become Cartandes to continue love to one ingrate , for such a love as ●ath no parallell ; a fire ●id my in bosome for so many months , almost till my consumption , and when it was permitted to breake forth , O misety ! to thinke all the returne it brought was cold neglect , and scorne , and can I suffer this from any mortall : Cartandes woo , and be neglected ! if love barre me revenge on him , yet from my selfe I merite hate , and by selfe punishment will take revenge , but how ? resolve my selfe never to see him more ; bid farewell to this I le and him , it must be so , or I shall fall beneath the honor of my birth .

Enter Guiderius . Guid .

Pardon dearest Lady this intrusion , on your retyrement , I knew not of your being here .

Car .

Stay , I le give some intermission to my tormenting thoughts , nor doe I ever finde it more , then when I doe converse with him , wher 's Prince Arviragus ?

Guid .

Giving order touching provision for the Army .

Car .

He does not thinke us worthy of his company , though we commend that care , we would not be our selves neglected .

Guid .

't is an accent of duty makes him absent .

Car .

We doe beleeve you pay us a respect greater then his , and yet we oft enjoy your company .

Guid .

His charge engages him , and me the blessing I enjoy , to see & heare a person of such excellence .

Car .

My exellence rests onely in your opinion , and never reaches to his apprehension : oh I must ease my heart , and when can I d●scharge the burthen better , then upon one , whom I beleeve will have a sence of my afflictions , and faith and secrecie not to discover ?

Guid .

Though when I know you are unhappy , it will be an addition to my griefes , yet shall no overflowing of my tongue relate what I am trusted with ; for I will place your sufferings in the profoundest of my heart , my owne shall flo●e above , yet I should hate my selfe , if mine were visible to any , but the deare cause of my afflictions ; how most injurious I am to my selfe , to give title to the pleasing paines of love .

Car .

Mine are not such , yet love's the cause ther 's a mixture of disdaine and anger , that renders , even my selfe and him , if possible offensive hatefull , O that it were so , I speake I know not what , nor is it strange in such confusion of my thoughts ; that contradictions from my tongue should fall , O Arviragus , the happy , most unhappy cause of my distractions , didst thou now stand before me , as when appointed for the Sacrifice , the sense of thy ingratitude would raise my anger up to thy destruction , but soone I should revenge such rashnes on my selfe , by my owne death . O cruell love , O cruell fate , to fixe my love where vertue bars me a returne !

Guid .

O cruell fate , that fixes mine , where an accesse of meri● forces love , and kills , even possibility of hope .

Car .

Had I my selfe no need of pitty , I could g●ant it to another .

Guid .

Is it possible the sense of paine should make you cruell , rather by an act free your self , raising some other to a happinesse no mortall ever knew so great ? reason assures nature , never intended such perfections should beg love as an almes ; yet when you shall descend so low to crave his heart , he cannot give you one worth the receiving , since he shall show ingratitude to so much truth , as the whole world does not againe possesse .

Car .

Can her deserts to him , be more then mine ? consider well my actions .

Guid .

I cannot say that her perfections equal yours , yet they admit of no comparisons besides , but were it so , to both his obligation equall , her debt in justice must first be satisfied , which no lesse can performe then his whole faith : faire Creditor , be favorable then to him , to me his friend , who stand engaged for all he owes , and though I dare not say my heart is a treasure worthy to discharge the principall , yet as interest money , or a surety , till fortuen make him able , take the engagement of a faith , that cannot know a shorter date , then my last gasp .

Car .

Guiderius , I was not ignorant before , who was the object of your passion , and bring my selfe in love , loves language not displeased me , but now after this declaration to my face : neither my quality , nor love to Arviragus doe permit me heare you more ; this I thus plainely tell you , least you should rayse a hope both prejudiciall to your selfe and me , no flattery being so dangerous as that of lovers to themselves .

Enter Arviragus . Ar.

I come to wai●e upon your Ma●estie for an affaire of no small consequence .

Car .

Yet I am confident you le leave unspok●n one of greater , O Arviragus is this my resolution : first break my heart , ere I againe expresse the least of passion , What s your affaire ?

Ar.

Your counsell wait , without whom I desire to be a Witnesse of my proposition .

Car .

The councell , another time I le hear● it .

Ar.

It doth not well admit of a delay .

Car .

It shall bee Sir , if it be in me to cause it .

Ar.

What moves the Queene ?

Car .

That was too much the other way , oh Love , how hard it is to hide thy power , when even by shewes of Anger or neglect , wee to the experienc't doe proclame thee most .

Ar.

Know ye the cause the Queene is thus .

Gui .

Yes though yee did not tell me , 't is that shee loves you who cannot requite her ?

Ar.

Oh thinke not so .

Guid .

Ha — shall I beleeve you love her ?

Ar.

By all the Gods equall unto my selfe : what i's t I would not undertake to serve her ?

Guid .

Not breake your faith I hope .

Ar.

My Faith — I mean within the bounds of vertue , for never man was more oblig'd , then I to this brave Queene , Pardon divine Philicia , thou art still excepted , when either Love or Obligation is named .

Gui .

I must confesse I would not have you love the Queene , for if you did , ●hen I must hate you , yet certainely Cartandes hath done more to oblige you , then Fortune ever gave ▪ Philicia power .

Ar.

No Guiderius , come with me to my tent ,

There will I make thee know , That I to her more then the Gods doe owe . Ex. Enter King and Sinatus . King .

I wonder much Sinatus wee heare not from Prince Arviragus , you say he willingly did entertaine the offer of our love .

Sin .

At first hee heard unwillingly my offers of a peace , but whe I seconded my propositions with tender of Philicia for his wife , and did engage my faith , I Iudged your kindnesse reall to my opinion , he seemed absolutely won , promised to send some trusty Messenger , that fully should concl●de the Treatie , but Sir what is the reason none are permitted to see your Sister .

Alas Sinatus , she is not to be seene by us .

Sin .

How Si● ?

Shee 's fled .

Sin .

Ha .

Sinatus here I call the Heavens to witnesse , I was deceived as wel as others , beleeved she kept her chamber , when she was gone .

Sin .

O Sir , you have undone your selfe , and mee , if you intended really to g●ve your Sister , yet 't is impossible that Arviragus can believe it , now your Sister will perswade the contrary , who certainely in some disguise is fled to him , and justly am I thought the trecherous instrument of this deceit .

Sinatus be not grieved 't is the intention makes the person guilty , and mine I sweare were then , and yet remaine full of all good to Arviragus .

Sin .

But that you are my King , I would s●arce credit this profession , thinke now Sir what you are to doe , to appeare worthy Arviragus friendship , without which , there is no preservation for your self or State .

King .

We hope we are not in a cause so desperate , Eugenius no wayes is of your opinion .

Sin .

't is well sir , if Eugenius heart be yours , after so many injuries , I would not sir accuse , though I mistrust , he 's one of a high mind , withall suspitious , and from his owne thoughts , judges your actions : this sir , were base in me , but that it tends to my Princes preservation : take heed your love unto Artemia , give not her father power to worke his ends upon you , I know he once did hate you deadly .

King .

So did Artem●a , but now she is more g●ntle , and if I not mistake , shares in my flame , what can Eugenius ayme at more then to be father in Law unto his Prince : see where they come . —

Enter Eugenius

and Artemia .

Divine Artemia , thou bright Starre of comfort , which but appearing with a cheerefull looke , doest by that influence , chase from me in an instant all my discontent : shine but thus gracious ever , and fortune hath no power to make me suffer .

Ar.

May Fortune cease to be adored , when she 's not auspicious to your Wishes .

King .

My Lord I must acknowledge these favours to your kindnes , whilest she speakes thus , make knowne your wishes , and they are obeyed .

Eug .

Mine Sir , must first tend to your happinesse , before they are permitted to reflect upon my selfe , and the first step to that Sir , is your safety here Sir , are yee besieged ? yet all men live in so much plenty , eate and drinke , as if their store could neere be spent , hoping upon uncertaine succours or Treaties , of some peace , which all may fayle , and we be left to the extremity of famine : this to prevent , such order would in time be taken , as is accustomed in a City thus beseeged .

King .

The care is timely , and in the due execution we desire you will oblige us , from henceforth we command Eugenius as our substitute , receive from all perfect obedience touching the Government and safety of the City .

Art.

This confidence which you doe repose in him , obliges me no lesse , to pray for the successe , then him to put in act his ablest faculties , for the performance of a charge weighty .

Offers to kneele . Eug .

Sir .

King .

Eugenius , Here wee doe receive all thankes , present and expect future happinesse . —

Exit King ,

Artemia , and others , man●l Eugenius .

Eug .

Yes Prince , I know thy present joyes fixe there , and would remaine so , till thy lust were satisfied , but I shall coole that heat , nor will my actions scarcely beare the name of falsehood , but in the ocean of thy fathers , and thy treache●y , and wrongs to me be lost , or if remembred , cald a wise p●evention , at worst a just revenge , upon a perjur'd and dissembling Tyrant .

Enter the two that mockt him in his disgrace . 1.

Most noble Lord , how excellent and wise a choice his Majestie hath made in our beleefe , our vowed obedience to your least command , we hope shall witnesse .

Eug .

You are more cruell in these flatteries , now in my prosperity , then were your scorne in time of my affliction : then I could have revenged , but now civilitie must tye my hands .

O My Lord , I hope your goodnesse will beleeve we did but jest , and wisht no hurt ?

Eug .

No● doe I thinke you now wish good , and as such harmelesse persons wi●h your pardon , I shall sti●l esteeme .

Now by our honours we are yours entirely , or any that the King pleases to favour .

Sir , we have beene long Courtiers , and never were observed as stubborne to the will of Majestie , his wisedome , makes election , and duty doth from us command obedience .

Eug .

But not slavish professions , learne to be men , and I will love you , nay learne but to dissemble well and I le imploy you , appeare but to the world honest and worthy , I le embrace your friendship , be capable to cozen , and you may be usefull , but shallow fooles and knaves , that every child can see , throwe disgrace on the weary Courtier .

Enter Arviragus and Cleanthus . Ar.

Welcome still night that doth invite unto a sweet repose , wearied mortality but unto me more welcome then the rest , a thou givest way to my enioying a happinesse , worthy the envy of the Gods , Cl●anthes make all things ready , and bee carefull none approach .

Clean .

I shall .

Exit Clean . Enter Philicia . Ar.

Come fo●th my dearest , Ci●thia is to her highest Orb advanc't , 't is mid of night , in teares these clouds are surely caus'd from gratitude to her , least the bright splendor of your eyes , should darke her shine , there cannot be a real cause of sorrow here .

Phi .

O Yes , the very being here is in it selfe a Cause .

Ar.

Can yee repent your goodnesse to me ?

Phi .

No Arviragus , but I may quarrell with my Fate , that forces me to give so faire a ground to slander , doe I appeare now like a great Kings daughter , or when our story shall be read , will not some question my ve●tue iustly , but were there none of these , how much lesse will your satisfaction bee , when You receive mee at your Altar , then if your purchase of mee had beene with doubts and feares continued , besides the frailty of mans nature must make him of necessity reioyce more to receive a Princes with all circumstance of greatnesse , then one that comes into his Armes , stript of those pleasing glories .

Ar.

Since our Essentiall content rests in our selves , and all actions wee have done of consequence have ever a●m'd at one anothers goods , you could not suffer for my sake , or I for yours , but it must adde to our affection , if to the world you show lesse glory , as clouded by our Sexes habit , it sets a value upon me , for whose sake you obscured your selfe , not Alexander I confesse by all his conquests was ever rais'd to such a hight , for with contempt I looke on what the wo●ld st●les most happy , yet all these glories vanish or change into their contrary , unlesse you change the day , and with a clearer beame dry up this killing moysture , no Cerren ever felt so dangerous infections , even to the ruine of our Joyes , since it doth show , as if there we●e suspition or defect of love in one of us .

Ph.

O kill me not to say so .

Ar.

Why are yee sad , We doe enioy our conversation free , no eye or eare is to disturbe us , a blessing lovers pray for , oft have we done so .

Ph.

't is true , and for your conversation , should ag●ine adventure much , but here I am as t were by a constraint , something of modesty or folly , I know not what to call it ▪ since certaine of your Vertue , takes from me al the satisfaction of your company , truth is , I slept not al the last night , nor do I think I shal , if you lye in the same roome .

Ar.

( But there 's necessity of that to avoid suspition , would you be pleas'd to plight our Faiths , these scruples then would vanish ▪ and we might be more freely happy .

Phi .

Kill me rather then utter any syllable to such a purpose .

Ar.

Upon my knees I beg forgivenesse .

Phi .

I scarce can grant it , nor will I , but upon a condition .

Ar.

Name it , and be obeyed .

Phi .

That you lye further from the bed , as farre as possible .

Ar.

What can you feare from me ?

Phi .

It seemes ye are no sutor for a pardon , that dare expostulate .

Ar.

By this faire hand I will obey you .

Phi .

In this you onely seale a blanke , your pardon is not drawne up in my heart , nor can be , till I be obeyed , pray remove your selfe .

Ar.

O cruell Philicia !

Phi .

Deare Arviragus , doe not thinke me such , 't is not want , but an excesse of love , that makes me tender to preserve my selfe , most worthy of you , nor am I very well , caused by my want of sleepe , the enjoying which , onely can restore me , may thy repose be full of all these comforts happy Lovers feele , and if a doubt possesse thy minde , may the divinity of love , give thee assurance by a perfect vision of my heart , then thou shalt find unto thy joy and mine , that never any was so truely loved .

Ar.

If then you would not contradict this your profession , you will grant this priviledge , one kisse of your faire hand , whose delicacy is such , it both commands and yet forbids obedience , put me not from you , it seems like banishment , I will retire unurg'd , one touch more I would beg , be not displeased , consider but how you may blesse me , and sure you will not frowne although I ayme at this .

Phi .

Your importunity and my desire to sleep , onely procures your wish , with which be satisfied .

Ar.

I am , though not my love , that merits more , sleepe steales upon her , and though she cannot be a witnesse now o my obedience , I will retire , even to the utmost verge , nor can I be displeased in this removall , when I know that I am lodged in the ●refoundest of her heart , from which assurance and imitation of my better part , a gentle slumber , doe begin to gaine a mastery upon my senses , welcome , thrice welcome , thou sweet refresher of our wearied faculties , how gladly doe I yeeld unto thy charmes ?

Enter Cartandes , Oswald , Lords , Aldred . Car .

Not love alone , nor that so much as jealousie and curiosity , thrusts me upon this action , which some will censure sharply , who can this be , with whom hee thus retire , and shuts himselfe up , even from his dearest friend Guiderius , no way can I arrive at satisfaction , better then by this unexpected and unreasonable visit : all stay without but Aldred .

Cle .

Who 's there ?

Car .

A friend to Arviragus .

Cle .

Ha the Queene .

Car .

Doe not wake your master , rather retire , I am confident , that you dare trust me in this chamber .

Cle .

Madam .

Car .

I see you 'r trouble , stay , and be witnesse , I will not ravish him .

Cle .

What can this meane , or what 's my part , advise me heaven .

Car .

This is the Prince layd on the floore , what can this meane , does he beleeve those limbs deserve no better place ? although in warre he hath beene b●ed , yet a Commander still , and needed inure himselfe to so much hardnes , ther 's more in it sure , here , here 's the cause ; rather an argument to draw him nearer , for so much sweetnesse in a face , these eyes never beheld , Nature , where hast thou hid this piece , whose excellence is such , that my amazement questions my faith with doubts , whither it be some new creation , not can I be resolved .

Phi .

Oh.

Car .

That sigh setles my doubt on the old stuffe , sorrowes are our birth right , but of what S●x is yet my torment , if a Woman , if — it be so , for could he give his bed to a man , or could a man deserving that respect , be so farre wanting in Civility , as to accept it ? No 't is a woman , & she for whom I 'm justly neglected , Why Justly ? is she a Queene , or are her sufferings for Arviragus equall to mine ? in both she may exceed , for such respect he payes her , as might content a Deity , if they had beeing on the earth .

Phi .

O my deare Arviragus .

Car .

More then enough , despaire I entertaine from this minute , it is a Woman , were it a man , the mischief were not lesse , now I may hate , then I perhaps might love againe — Sir . — Sir

Ar.

My deare Philicia .

Car .

How bitter those sweet words are , no Sir .

Ar.

I do nor dreame , sure I am yet a sleepe , most gracious Lady , to see you here at this dead time of night may well excuse this my distraction , there is no commotion in the Campe , or secret treason .

Car .

The greatest that mans wit or fortune can produce , my utter ruine , and you the ground of all , nay you conceal'd that person from me , that hath already strooke me to the heart .

Ar.

I cannot understand you .

Car .

This light I le give you to it .

Ar.

What shall I doe — this youth I le answer for .

Car .

And so shall hee for you , your guilt being equall , a guard there seise this Prince .

Ar.

H● , seise me .

Phi .

Ah me who 's here ?

Car .

Prince Arviragus , seek not to make resistance , 't is impossible without shedd●ng the blood of thousands : by what is most sacred I vow , the innocent shal have no prejudice ; if in this promise I doe faile , let a swift vengeance sieze me , but if you will not trust this promise , but bee your owne acquitter , and this youth's , who is by me accused of Treason , upon your head fall all the blood that shall this night be shed .

Phi .

Although I doe not know the grounds of your suspit on and s● am ignorant how farre your passions may transport you against me and this Prince , yet since I know our innocence , and what his obligations have formerly bi● to you , from that end , your owne Noblenesse , I needs must hope a fai●er issue , than from a desperate opposition .

Ar.

Is 't your opin on then that I should yeeld my selfe ?

Phi .

your former bondage may instruct it a happin●sse to be a Prisoner to Cartandes , if free from guilt , that confidence will make me suffer gladly with you .

Car .

In this I must deceive your hopes , although you joyned together in my wrongs , your persons must be ●evered .

Ar.

This was my feare , invention helpe me , Noble Agenor , bee not discontented , although our persons may be separated , our friendship shall remaine entire for ever .

Car .

How 's this ?

Ar.

Sure Philicia will conceive me . Madam bee pleased to know you have the Pri●ce of Scotland for your prisoner , whose Father if hee suffer injury , hath power to right himselfe .

Phi .

I cannot feare it from so sweet a Lady , and yet her eyes without her tongue , have power of life and death .

Car .

What am I courted ? for this time sir I will onely imploy my tongue . Let them be separat , yet us'd with all respect :

For in what I feare you cleare your selves from guilt , Rather then yours my owne blood shall be spilt .

ACT . V. Enter Artemia . Art.

How strangely are my thoughts devided , how full of contradictions ? O the unsufferable paines of an unsettled mind ! thou art above expression , beyond the reach of faith in all , but such as have like me , beene tortured by thee ; to love by inclination , yet bound to hate by reason , to have oathes , vowes and teares , beget faith , and as it were , destroy it , in the instant of its birth , by a suspicion of his falsehood : Oh , cruell , cruell fate ! either worke powerfully suspition in my soule , or wholly quit the place to faith begetting love .

Enter Eugenius . Eug .

How now Artemia , thou look'st sad , but know thou hast no cause , the plot I laid hath taken to my wish , and when we please , we may be free leaving this cursed place .

Art.

May we sir ?

Eug .

Thou speak'st not cheerefully : know that the Captaine which I told thee of , to whom I did commit the keeping of the Westerne-gate of the City , is so much mine , that he not only will assist our flight , but give us trusty servants to be our guides : I long till I embrace brave Arviragus feet , and bath them in repentant teares : why stand'st thou thus , art thou not joyed , to thinke upon thy meeting with Guiderius ?

Art.

I should be glad to see my brother , but sit , will not our flight appeare like treason , the King reposing on your faith his safety ?

Eug .

Treason ? Artemia , it scarcely could be counted such if I should kill him ere I left the City , his fathers injuries , and his to me , have beene insupportable .

Art.

But sir , if hee now really intend all he makes show of , would not that justly reconcile him to your love ?

Eug .

Doe you desire to stay behind to be his whore ? remember what he once attempted foole .

Art.

't is true , but he 's much changed , me think● full of all sweetnesse now of late , O sir .

Eug .

I see his flatteries have gain'd upon thee , and thou beleevest him changed , when thou indeed art so Artemia , no , thou must not trust him , build on a fathers care , & judgement , whose experience makes him more capable , to know the cunning of a Crocodile , whose practise is to ruine us by our owne pitty , let us remove our selves with speed Artemia , out of the sight , or hearing of his charme .

Ar.

I shall obey sir , when you please ▪

Eug .

Prepare your selfe then , for perhaps this night we wil● leave the City .

Exit Eugenius . Art.

Must I forget all those deepe oaths , all those expressions , which I have heard the experienc't , rekon up as marks of love , why should I thinke ther 's no faith in men , are they not made of the same mould , with us , and sure I have not lesse of love for him then I make show of , O would I had , I love him but too much , which blinds me that I cannot see his falshood , — cannot ? rather will not ,

Love what it doth not like doth darkly see ,

But what doth please , even against truth must be .

Exit . Enter Philicia . Phi .

Though my owne miseries presse hard upon me , yet even those griefes beget a sense , and pity of her sufferings that causes mine Cartandes , nor is it strange , when I consider Arviragus , the ground of both — the Queene .

Enter Cartandes and Aldred Car .

See these things be ready , and wait without .

Phi .

I must make good the person of Agenor .

Exit Al. Car .

Sir , I come to see how you doe beare restraint .

Phi .

Madam , my usage hath beene such , so noble , my will so fram'd to serve your pleasure , that I before felt no restraint , but sure a prison , by your glorious presence , will soone become the onely place worthy our wish , a Temple where on the Altar of a zealous heart , there may be offered up to you the sacred Deity , the Incense of our pure devotion .

Car .

Agenor Prince of Scotland might speake this , and thinke so too , for I confesse I not misdoubt my merit , but from Philicia , whose soul I know is ful of malice against Cartandes , this must not be believed without the forfeit of my judgement — and know your hate is that I covet , not your love .

Phi

My hate , faire Princesse ? ●rust me I cannot pay it .

Car .

Leave these disguisings , I come upon no friendly visit , look on me as a rivall enraged with jealousie for such my actions quickly will expresse me .

Exit Car . Phi .

't is in vaine , I find she knows me for Philicia , and Mistris to the man she loves .

Enter Cartandes with a Cup and a Dagger . Car .

Iudge now if I deserve your courting , does my presence make this place pleasing to you , dost thou not tremble at these objects ?

Phi .

Those objects , nor the employment of them shall not make me guilty , and whil'st they doe not so , they can create no feare .

Car .

I trifle , this cup of poyson , Arviragus does present you by my hand , and bids you , if you love him , drink it to his health , what do ye begin to tremble ?

Phi .

I doe , to heare his name and poyson mixt together in one sentence , but for my selfe , a confident smile , shall meet , and if not checke , yet triumph over your utmost malice .

Car .

Proceed to make this good , ther 's matter for the tryall .

Phi .

How ? to drinke that poyson , ther 's no just invitation to it .

Car .

You will not drinke this poyson then , for Arviragus sake .

Phi .

Even for his sake I must not .

Car .

Thou God of Love be judge , and crowne the truest Lover in Elisium — thus doe I seize my right .

Phi .

What meanes the Queen ?

Car .

Force could not make thee do , what force shall not prevent me from this draught gives freedome , and all joyes to my deare Arviragus , nay makes even thee my hated rivall sharer in his blisse .

Phi

H●ld . — Car . No.

Phi .

O hold for Arviragus sake — shall I be thus outgone ? this cursed draught to hell , how I am lost in admiration , at this love and bravery , here let me kneele in adoration , as to a Deity , for sure your beauty , and these exalted actions speake you more then a mortall .

Car .

More then a foole , had I intended really , what I made show of .

Phi .

How is this ?

Car .

Drink poyson for a man that scornes me — no● his heart-blood were a more pleasing draught .

Phi .

I am amased , which way shall I direct my faith , where fixe it ?

Car .

Vpon this point , which is unalterable , know that as much as I have loved Prince Arviragus , so much , nay more , hath Oswald been in love with me , ( at last his service hath obtain'd what I could not from Arviragus , ) beliefe and pitty of his sufferings , but whil'st the madnesse of my passion lasted to your servant , I made a vow never to marry any man , but Arviragus , yet hee alive , Oswald that knowes this , doth presse a combat , which I as gladly grant , prompted by love to him , and present hate to Arviragus , who yet if he proves victor , gaines liberty for ●ou and him , to this my oath and honour both shall ●ind me .

Phi .

Can this be true ?

Car .

I make no doubt of his and your acceptance , the offer being so farre above your hopes , Armour shall be provided , the place I likewise have designed , no witnesse but our selves ,

This being perform'd , justice will force you say ,

A Rivall to your joyes showed you a way .

Phi . I must confesse you brave , performe but what you boast , And I shall onely grieve your Oswald lost . Exit . Enter Sinatus and a Lord . Lo .

My Lord , as to an Oracle I come for counsell to you , my mind is burdned with a secret of no finall importance .

Sin .

Be free in speaking it ▪ I shall be so to you in my advice .

Lo .

First sweare a secresie .

Sin .

You are not just sir , to desire an oath , I covet not the knowledge of your secret , if you believe me honest , that 's a tye sufficient .

Lo .

You righrly doe instruct me from that assurance I must discover to you , that woone by Eugenius , I have consented to his escape with his daughter , out at that which he committed to my custody , but considering better I find it is not onely his escape that he may ayme at , but happily the ruine of the King and City , whose weakenesse he may discover to the Danes and Arviragus .

Sin .

No doubt he does intend it , and these your latter thoughts had only power to wash away , ayded by the Kings mercy , the guilt that stain'd you by your rash consent .

Lo .

But if this be discovered , I prove the murtherer of Eugenius , and his sweet and innocent daughter .

Sin .

I shall advise you , as I have ever done my selfe , particular losses , must yeeld unto the generall preservation ; and yet alas , is there no safety for the State but in their deaths ? must that be recompence for all their former injuries ? what is your will ? the King must know this from you or me .

Lo .

Sir , you are wise and vertuous , this my affaire I wholly commit unto your hands , for there I count my life or honour safe , if one must perish , it will be some comfort , that I lose it by your counsell .

Exit . Sin .

Althou●h unwillingly , yet as a Counseller , I am bound to undertake it , 't is hard to rule what is above us , the King I feare dissembles , and thinkes by unjust pollicies , to bring his ends to passe .

Enter King . King .

Know now Sinatus consulting with your selfe .

Sin .

Yes , but about your safety .

Gni .

How am I in danger ?

Sin .

Be pleas'd sir , first to tell me , if rash and unfaithfull resolutions may not find mercy , from repentance , and endeavours of amends ?

Gui .

They are crimes I have beene guilty of , and if like me , they truly can repent , I can forgive , as certaine , as I hope forgivenesse .

Sin .

I must believe you know then , I am inform'd Eugenius and Artemia , giving no faith to all your showes of love , did worke a meanes for their escape to Arv●ragus ; the Captaine that made promise of his helpe , is hee that now discovers their intent .

Gui .

Thou wounds my soule with this , yet but from thee it could not find beliefe , have all my vowes and teares , gain'd no more faith ? suspected still , — send straight to fetch that Captaine to me , and in what I shall now enjoyne thee , thou best of men , crowne all thy former actions .

Sin .

Let it be vertuous , and I shall know , nor doubt nor danger .

Gui .

I durst as soone pray heavens assistance , as thine to any unjust act , 't is such a secret , as I scarce dare trust the ayre with it .

Whispers . Sin .

How sir , 't were madnesse .

Gui .

Feltst thou my torment , thou would'st account it madnesse not to doe it ▪

Sin .

O sir , ther 's too much danger .

Gui . The more of love and honor then , He that like me , justly under the heavy burthen of suspition lies , By actions , even above beliefe must seeke to rise . Exit . Enter Guiderius . Guid .

Hither I am come to meet an unknowne foe , by the command of her who hath so absolute a power over my soule , that certaine death were by the merite of obedience , made a gainefull purchase , and farre from me be such a thought as death , were not my Armes as strong , my heart as voyd of feare , as any living , yet such a recompence will crowne my victory , that would give strength and courage , to the basest coward ; my wish 't was , that Cartandes vowed to make me master of , if in her power , and in her power , rests my chiefest blisse on earth , I am on fire till I behold an opposite , but whom ? I must not question that , not in my thoughts , much lesse expostulate with him our cause of combat , were hee here .

Enter Arviragus . Ar.

Were it a troupe of men , as 't is a single person that I am to meet , I should encounter them with no lesse hope and courage then now , since 't is to set Philicia free : Cartandes , prove but faithful in thy promise , and though thy hatred make thee seek my life , I shall admire thine , and thy servants bravery , — here 's Oswald .

Enter Guiderius armed . Guid .

I fear'd all was a dreame , but see my wish .

fight . Enter Cartandes and Philicia . Car .

Enough Guiderius , hold , O hold Guiderius .

Phi .

Ha , Guiderius .

Ar.

How 's this ?

Guid .

Why Madam , doe ye this ?

Ar.

Do I here right ? thy voyce speakes thee Guiderius , art thou hee ?

Guid .

Ha , if you be Arviragus , I shall soone be nothing , O falshood , never till this minute hadst thou so glorious a seate , deare Lady take this sword and rip my heart , to see my innocence .

Phi .

I should as soone suspect my faith , as doubt thy love to Arviragus .

Ar.

O Madam , could ye not be content to satisfie your cruelty a common way , but you would make us murtherers of our owne selves ?

Car .

Prince Arviragus , I had really intended your destruction , perhaps you had not lived now to upbrayd me , your strengths & courages seeming equall , nor you Guiderius in your looks , to expresse a soule so discontented : I did not think friendship had wholly taken up your heart ; call all that 's neere , nay , could the universall world heare my voyce , I would with a just pride , proclaime the ground of all my actions — know Madame , in that Scene of death with you , I made such tryall of your vertue , and your love to Arviragus , that in the ocean of your merits , my sickly hopes were drownd , for I despaired of ever arriving at the haven of blisse , where you may now for ever anchor safely , from me no storme shall rise more to disturbe your peace .

Ar.

Can this be true Philicia , shall wee believe ? will you not change againe ?

Car .

Why doe you check your joyes ? trust me I will no more vary the Scene , but gladly prove a Priest to joyne your hands .

Ar.

Oh you Gods !

Phi .

Let me adore this goodnesse .

Car .

Now Arviragus , I must turne to you : to make a repetition of the torments I have felt were vaine , for I must tell you , that I still doe love , and must enjoy all that your vertue can permit you grant , nay , I must marry Arviragus too ▪

Phi .

How Madam ?

Car .

In this his friend I shall enjoy , his faith , vertue , valour , in this last action fully witnest to me — Guiderius , if beyond this you have a wish , and in my power , name it , and I will see it performed .

Guid .

Or this , or in the instant give me death .

Car .

This doubt speaks your love more , and makes you dearer to me .

Guid .

Let me not dare to thinke words can expresse my joyes .

A noyse within . Ar.

What 's the matter ?

Enter Aldred . Aldr.

Some that are fled out of the City desire to be admitted to your presence .

Car .

Bring them in ▪

Enter Eugenius , Artemia , Guimanthes , and two more . Eug .

First , let me here lay downe my necke , and if you please , receive a Traytors due .

Ar.

Eugenius I am both amaz'd and joyed to see you , and where you thinke you need forgivenesse , I must pay you thanks , even for my life , preserved by this your sonne .

Guid .

Your blessing sir .

Eug .

Never was fathers staines wip't off with so much joy to the offendor , as mine by thee .

Phi .

Deare ▪ Artemia wel come , here thou art safe from false-hood and tyranny .

Art.

Madam , I hope so .

Guid .

But how sir did you scape the Tyrant ?

Eug .

't is now some time since he made showes of love unto Artemia , and for his ends , used me with all respect , trusted the Government of the City to me , but I have gain'd the opportunity to put my selfe within this gracious Princes and your protection , chiefely by imitating him in his dissimulation , but in his showes of love , her 's one can witnesse to her griefe , none ever equal'd his falshood . Discovers .

Gui .

Eugenius , thus I doe disprove thy slander .

Omnes .

Ha the King !

Gui .

Ha , deare Artemia , no longer trust the malice of this father , since to assure my love , I hazard honor , life and Kingdome , behold me here , gladly exposed , even to the utmost rage or injury can prompt you to , and if I fall a Sacrifice to Love , and thee close ▪ but my eyes , and shed a teare upon my tombe , such a death will prove by far more welcome , ther 〈◇〉 to live , and have my faith suspected .

〈◇〉 his one act did not my interest bind , yet mig●t for ever reconcile us .

Guid .

I wil not beg that pardon , which you so freely give .

Ar.

And Madam , I must hope , you will believe , Hymen and Mars but ill agree .

Car .

Deare Arviragus know that power you held in both , is not grown lesse , because now we are joyn'd , dispose all how you please .

Ar.

Eugenius , are you as liberal ?

Eug .

I am ready upon my knee to beg this Princes pardon .

Gui .

Which sir , I must not suffer , rather would kneele to beg a blessing from you .

Ar.

Artemia , if I can read loves language , your eyes expresse the argument of your heart , blush not ; receive her sir .

I doe , as what can onely make me blest .

Ar.

Hymen provide more Torches :

From your equall loves will rise , A firme beliefe that Cupid now hath eyes .

FINIS .

Epilogue . THus at the last , our doubtfull story ends , With show of marriage , but our ioy depends On your allowance , You may yet undoe All that is past , and we againe must Wooe : For by disliking You forbid our bands , But if you 'r pleas'd , you so do ioyne our hands .

Imprimatur

MATH . CLAY . Octob . 26. 1638.