University of Virginia Library

EPILOGUE, Spoke by Mr s Barry.

First Ladies I am sent to you, from whom
Our Author hopes a favourable Doom,
As Friends to Vertue, since 'tas been her End
Vice to discourage, Vertue recommend;
You've seen reveng'd an injurd Woman's Cause,
And to such Justice can't deny Applause,
Felicia too expects you should approve
A Wife's Fidelity, and Tender Love;
Protect her Character as you'd be thought
The Bright Originals from which 'twas wrought.
Next to the Men I come, but cannot plead
Your likeness as a motive to succeed,
We rather hope none here will be offended
Because none here cou'd think himself himself intended;
Not one of you so sullenly wou'd slight
A yielding Fair, at least not the first night,
You cou'd not have the hearts, nor I believe
Wou'd you to such a height as he deceive,
'Twou'd startle you no doubt, for not to wrong yee,
One Wife is thought too much by most among yee.
Since I have done you justice, be this Day
As just to us in censuring our Play,
Not with Grimace, and words all noise, and Huff,
Damn it, a Woman's! that must needs be Stuff;
At Reason's Great Tribunal she'd appear,
Tho' she has most from her decree to fear,
But so condemn'd, conscious of Justice done,
Perhaps she'll mend, at least her faults, she'll own.
If they are such as care may well correct,
No pains to please you better she'll neglect,
But if what she believes Poetick Rage,
Is found th'infection of a Scribling Age,
For ever she'll forsake the Darling Stage.