Querer Por Solo Querer : To Love only for Love Sake A Dramatick Romance |
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| 1. | THE FIRST ACT. |
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 | Querer Por Solo Querer : To Love only for Love Sake |  |
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THE FIRST ACT.
Drums and Trumpets, and enter at one end of the Stage the Generall with a Truncheon in his hand, and Soldiers with Banners; before him Captives, and amongst them one of better appearance than the rest: At the other, Felisbravo habited after the Persian manner, with a Royal Train; and let the General approach him, laying the truncheon at his feet; and the General is to wear a lawrel Crown, which he takes off when he comes at the King.General.
Vnconquer'd Sir.
Felis.
Rise wise and valiant General.
Gen.
Give me thy Feet, these Plants shall be my Lawrels.
Felis.
Gen'ral, into my Arms, into my Heart:
To pay good Services is Kings best part:
Relate thy Victory.
Gen.
Dread Soveraign, Mine
The Sweat was, but the Victory was thine.
The Sweat was, but the Victory was thine.
With full two hundred Ships of monstrous burthen
(Cramm'd with Land Souldiers too) the Foe usurp'd
Thy narrow Seas, and hover'd o're these Lands
As o're a certain Prey, on which he look'd
As the sole Obstacle betwixt his high
Hopes, and the Universal Monarchy.
Thou (to receive this Storm where e're it falls)
Stay'st must'ring on the Shore thy fearless Bands;
In head whereof, thou Marchest bravely Mounted
In silver Arms; writ in thy Face, and Star,
The Son of Fortune by the God of War.
(Cramm'd with Land Souldiers too) the Foe usurp'd
Thy narrow Seas, and hover'd o're these Lands
As o're a certain Prey, on which he look'd
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Hopes, and the Universal Monarchy.
Thou (to receive this Storm where e're it falls)
Stay'st must'ring on the Shore thy fearless Bands;
In head whereof, thou Marchest bravely Mounted
In silver Arms; writ in thy Face, and Star,
The Son of Fortune by the God of War.
Mean time, go I to hunt them out at Sea,
Under th'auspicious flight of thy guilt Standard
Approach'd them; Ship by Ship I visit thine
(Guiding my self a Barge's Rudder) spurr'd
On both sides with long Oares, and from each poop
Bid ours remember, in that Azure Field
We are our Island's, It is the Worlds shield.
Under th'auspicious flight of thy guilt Standard
Approach'd them; Ship by Ship I visit thine
(Guiding my self a Barge's Rudder) spurr'd
On both sides with long Oares, and from each poop
Bid ours remember, in that Azure Field
We are our Island's, It is the Worlds shield.
Wellcom'd on board my own with shouts, re-eccho'd
With general acclamations of the rest,
Which one by one bear up to pay my visit,
And all come sooping underneath my Lee
To fetch new courage; briskly we advance
Upon the Foe, who all this while had stood
With smiling silence on the trembling Flood.
With general acclamations of the rest,
Which one by one bear up to pay my visit,
And all come sooping underneath my Lee
To fetch new courage; briskly we advance
Upon the Foe, who all this while had stood
With smiling silence on the trembling Flood.
His potent FLEET was cast into the form
Of a half-Moon, gaping to purse us up,
As that dire African at dismal Cannæ
Did once ROMES Army led by a rash CONSUL;
Withal, to boast it self the Soveraign
(Like horned Cinthia) of the curled Main.
Of a half-Moon, gaping to purse us up,
As that dire African at dismal Cannæ
Did once ROMES Army led by a rash CONSUL;
Withal, to boast it self the Soveraign
(Like horned Cinthia) of the curled Main.
My brave Vice-Admiral (a second DRACO,
Writing his laws in blood texted with flame)
Swears by the Queen of Night,
To be a perfect Crescent It wants light.
Writing his laws in blood texted with flame)
Swears by the Queen of Night,
To be a perfect Crescent It wants light.
As the proud Bearer of the three fork'd Thunder
And winged Lightening on her tow'ring Plumes
(On whom her Master Jove bestow'd the Empire
O're all the feather'd People, for her service
In the fam'd rape of ruddy Ganimede)
Steer'd with her trayn, sails driving through the Clouds,
Thence stoops Plebeian Birds; so his bold Frigat
From a big Wave, on which she soar'd aloft
In clouds of smoak, flyes at the Covey intire,
Arrow of Gunpowder, Eagle of Fire.
And winged Lightening on her tow'ring Plumes
(On whom her Master Jove bestow'd the Empire
O're all the feather'd People, for her service
In the fam'd rape of ruddy Ganimede)
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Thence stoops Plebeian Birds; so his bold Frigat
From a big Wave, on which she soar'd aloft
In clouds of smoak, flyes at the Covey intire,
Arrow of Gunpowder, Eagle of Fire.
Not Priams City crackled in more Flames,
When to the fatal Horse she op'd her Walls,
Then did those wooden Towers; nor with more fury
The Greek Host (usher'd by that Horse) did reign
In her waste streets, than I with thy whole Fleet
Sent whizzing amongst theirs (in foaming Mead)
From feather'd Squadrons Thunderbolts of Lead.
When to the fatal Horse she op'd her Walls,
Then did those wooden Towers; nor with more fury
The Greek Host (usher'd by that Horse) did reign
In her waste streets, than I with thy whole Fleet
Sent whizzing amongst theirs (in foaming Mead)
From feather'd Squadrons Thunderbolts of Lead.
The Sea is made another Sea of Blood,
The sayling Wood, a Wood of floating Bodies.
In fine, a Victory by Sea robs thee
Of one by Land: And of this vast ARMADA
(Beneath whose weight the Main it self did shrink,
And which did threaten ev'n the Earth to sink)
The scattered fragments kiss thy princely Feet;
Ships, Captives, Banners, Streamers, Rudders, Keels,
Tall Masts, and launching Oares,
Now the torn Spoils and Trophies of these shores.
The sayling Wood, a Wood of floating Bodies.
In fine, a Victory by Sea robs thee
Of one by Land: And of this vast ARMADA
(Beneath whose weight the Main it self did shrink,
And which did threaten ev'n the Earth to sink)
The scattered fragments kiss thy princely Feet;
Ships, Captives, Banners, Streamers, Rudders, Keels,
Tall Masts, and launching Oares,
Now the torn Spoils and Trophies of these shores.
Of all thy Navy but one Ship is missing;
And thou (King of the Trident, second NEPTUNE,
Lord of four Seas) hast hurld
A Bit, Fear, ENVY, on the Sea, Sun, WORLD.
And thou (King of the Trident, second NEPTUNE,
Lord of four Seas) hast hurld
A Bit, Fear, ENVY, on the Sea, Sun, WORLD.
Felis.
Once more, O let me hold such virtue fast!
Gen.
What dangers courts not one, thus doubly grac'd,
His Kings Hand kiss'd, t' inspire him going out;
Return'd, his Arms, to fence him round about?
This rears your Bulwarks; for that Prince who takes
One Souldier into favour, thousands makes.
Felis.
A Monarch's gracious Eye, preserving State,
Makes a brave Souldier, and just Magistrate.
Gen.
Kiss all of you great FELISBRAVO's plants.
Capt.
Cross Stars!
Felis.
There's greatness in that countenance.
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I'm sure there's woe.
Gen.
This slave, of a high soul,
Thy Name did conquer.
Capt.
At thy Feet I roul.
Felis.
How comes so stout and brave a Man to show
Such poorness, as to sink beneath a woe?
Capt.
It is the least I feel; who much repine
This should be thought to share one sigh that's mine.
To be thy slave an honour always is,
And now to me a seasonable bliss;
A Good, which I do owe my Ill.
Felis.
Unfold
To me thy Grief.
Cap.
'Tis easier bourn, than told:
For, though my life be thine, my grief's my own.
Felis.
Trust me with both, I have not Ruth alone,
But Remedy.
Cap.
Though 'tis to saw a sorrow
To tell 't, let me thy Ear in private borrow.
Felis.
General retire the Folks.
Capt.
Take then a pain
Equally hard to speak as to contain.
Exeunt Gen. &c.
Equally hard to speak as to contain.
Great FELISBRAVE, new Founder of this Empire;
Phœnix, whose birth into the Throne began
Out of the dissolution of a Swan;
Who in the compass of two years, hast liv'd
“A thousand Ages (for so much live Kings,
“As they do Reign; Reign, as they do great things.)
Tartaria, a famous Part of ASIA
(For now it rivals her fair Countrey, who
A Star in Heaven, is a Rose in Cyprus)
Hath for its Queen the beauteous ZELIDAURA,
Whom the most rich embroideries of Praise
Serve for her wearing upon Common days,
Those vulgar terms (with which a mortal Face
Men basely flatter to the Morns disgrace)
Those bold comparisons with new-born day
And mid-day Suns (which Heav'ns and Gardens lay
So splendidly to heart) are, of her Youths
Inestimable blossom, most fair Truths;
In whom perfections see nothing to mend by,
And miracles themselves something to envy:
To whose fresh Years, and Cheeks, the Aprils throng
For flowry license to be fair and young
Phœnix, whose birth into the Throne began
Out of the dissolution of a Swan;
Who in the compass of two years, hast liv'd
“A thousand Ages (for so much live Kings,
“As they do Reign; Reign, as they do great things.)
Tartaria, a famous Part of ASIA
(For now it rivals her fair Countrey, who
A Star in Heaven, is a Rose in Cyprus)
Hath for its Queen the beauteous ZELIDAURA,
Whom the most rich embroideries of Praise
Serve for her wearing upon Common days,
Those vulgar terms (with which a mortal Face
Men basely flatter to the Morns disgrace)
Those bold comparisons with new-born day
And mid-day Suns (which Heav'ns and Gardens lay
So splendidly to heart) are, of her Youths
Inestimable blossom, most fair Truths;
In whom perfections see nothing to mend by,
And miracles themselves something to envy:
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For flowry license to be fair and young
Fel.
Is she so fair?
Capt.
The least in her that's rare.
Fel.
And good?
Capt.
Yes, ten times more than she is fair.
Fel.
(Rare Wight indeed)
Aside.
Captive proceed.
Capt.
Those poor Examples, in which Poets feign
Of much Romantick Princess such profane
Impossibilities, out-done by Her,
Her sobrer Beauty joyns sweet with severe,
Majestical with humble, for a King,
Not for a Woman, made: She takes the Ring;
Guirds Steel, and Lawrel: Pond'ring on the acts
Writ of Semiramis, and manly facts
Of great Penthisilea, she becomes
Of a light flame, as, at the kindling Drums,
Achilles hid in lying Petticoat,
His choice betraying what his face did not.
A Man amongst her Counsellors she lives,
A Woman with her Ladies; Laws she gives,
And Hearts she conquers; beautiful, and wise.
Fel.
Is she so gallant?
Capt.
She doth Monarchize
With such sage valour, that the world—
Fel.
Pass an.
Seeing Felisbravo disturbed he stops.
(What a rare Woman!)
Capt.
(What a curious Man!
Aside.
But, who can hear so great a Queen set forth,
And not be ravish'd with her matchless worth?)
Aside.
I, by her Fame drawn from Cicilia (where
The King my Father all those Nations fear
As far as Nile) 'mongst many, to present
My self one Trophy of her Beauty, went;
True always, always firm, always in vain:
And, when in highest tow'rings of my Flame,
In lowest stoops of humble Adoration,
Excess of Love with me was Moderation,
And wonders possible; It so befel—
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'She Marry'd?
Capt.
She!
Fel.
What prou'd?
Capt.
Invincible.
Fel.
Conclude thy Story then (and let her be
In a good hour fair, and at liberty.)
Aside.
Capt.
—My Father sick'ned (Noble Felisbrave)
And, in a War where Love and Duty strave,
That which I sided with was overcome;
For, with two Ships to visit him I come,
When fiue of that Armada meet with me
(New-wrecking Quicksands of the cruel Sea!)
'Gainst which, receiving thousand wounds I strive,
That, for their killing me, I might forgive
Their making me a Slave; Thy Gen'ral comes
To round thy Coasts: He them again overcomes,
Chains them, conducts them, where the King may put
Upon their Bellies his tryumphant Foot.
And, in a War where Love and Duty strave,
That which I sided with was overcome;
For, with two Ships to visit him I come,
When fiue of that Armada meet with me
(New-wrecking Quicksands of the cruel Sea!)
'Gainst which, receiving thousand wounds I strive,
That, for their killing me, I might forgive
Their making me a Slave; Thy Gen'ral comes
To round thy Coasts: He them again overcomes,
Chains them, conducts them, where the King may put
Upon their Bellies his tryumphant Foot.
I (Captive twice) on peevish Fortunes Frown
Pretend not to establish a Renown:
For a Fool too may be unfortunate.
But if a King; If, by an Antidate
Of early Virtue, when years fifteen came
Thou wrot'st Eternal; If thou 'rt like thy Fame;
If thou knowest Pity: If admitt'st of Tears,
To supple thee; Of Prayers, to storm thy Ears;
Past Ages, to incite thee; History,
To make thee glorious to Posterity:
Offers to throw himself
at the Feet of Felisbravo,
but he doth not permit him.
Pretend not to establish a Renown:
For a Fool too may be unfortunate.
But if a King; If, by an Antidate
Of early Virtue, when years fifteen came
Thou wrot'st Eternal; If thou 'rt like thy Fame;
If thou knowest Pity: If admitt'st of Tears,
To supple thee; Of Prayers, to storm thy Ears;
Past Ages, to incite thee; History,
To make thee glorious to Posterity:
Or set me free, or kill me instantly;
If it be possible a wretch can dye.
If it be possible a wretch can dye.
Fel.
Rise, gallant Youth, and Courage new acquire.
Capt.
My Soul bates to be gone, proud to expire
At so brave Feet.
Fel.
(Alas, he swounds!) and mine
Two tender Passions doth partake from thine,
(Let in at several doors) Love at my Ear,
Grief at my Eye: Hoe, General!
Gen.
I am here.
Enter General.
Fel.
New matter that thy virtue may not miss,
Save me this Slave from death; and tell him this,
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Thee, trust thy Life and Fortune in his hands.
Gen.
He would not let his wounds be drest.
Fel.
Ply, serve him
As thou would'st me; and all the Gods preserve him.
The General carries him out upon his shoulders, and Felisbravo remains alone.
What Circe in a moment hath purloyn'd
The wonted peace and freedom of my Mind?
What War is this, that lays soft batteries
Unto a Soul inur'd to Victories?
What heav'nly Zelidaura is this same?
What new device of Love, out of a Name
To shoot so sweet a Poison? O, then I
Less wounded Slave! Thou 'lt leave me, if thou dye,
Something t' envy in what thou dost deplore,
And in thy Story something to adore.
But, though so great a Beauty force my Love,
And to suppress it against Nature prove,
I'le be a better Prince, than Lover: Brave,
And hard, therefore my Act! Free be the Slave:
And (if he live) see Tartary; whilst I
Of Love, of Sorrow, and of Honour dye.
And let us bring in fashion, 'twixt us both,
Justice in Rivalship, in Absence Troth.
Enter General with a Picture.
Gen.
He lies all weltring in his Blood, and live
He cannot: This fair Picture he doth give
For thee to keep: And (if he dye) for Wife
Prays thee to make a conquest of the Life,
To him (he said) and all the World, but Thee,
Angelical Impossibilitie.
Fel.
Reach it: Return, and let your care be more—
(Gust yield to Reason)—then it was before.
Exit.
Tempt me not, Love: The Face I will not see,
Blind Argus, if my Ears were scall'd by thee
What second engine 'gainst my Eyes must move,
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I, pangs! I, pulings! I, to be afraid
My Faith cannot deserve, my Vows perswade!
Tears, from a Manly Face! Sighs, that shall find
Themselves no more regarded than the Wind!
Oh! Why should Love such servile things enjoyn?
But why this Pride? Does Beauty not enshrine
A Deity? Did it not Gods subdue?
Then let it tame a Man, and let me view
The lovely noble Feature; and the bright,
Of this fair Shade. Love is a less'ning flight:
When he doth vail his Plumes, it's such a thing
As when an Eagle stoops upon the Wing.
Looks upon the Picture
This Face all Soul is, and so full of Life,
That Life and Beauty are in it at strife
Which shall be more:—What Spirits?—What Spells too?
If in a little Card a Compass shew
The Earth, and lay it out in several;
In this, a Pencil hath Mapp'd Heav'n and all,
And Mapp'd it to the Life.—For on these Cheeks
Looks upon it again, and again
(Where white and red divinely intermix)
Aurora's hands hang snowing Jesamines,
—Her Fingers bleeding Roses;—The Moon shines
Bright in these Tresses, where each Hair's a Ray;
—Two twinkling Stars;—Two speaking Rubies;—May
Buds;—The Morn Blushes;—At one skip the Sun
Gets up;—High Noon assoon as Day's begun!
I'l love, I'l dye (O most unhappy man!)
In love a Phœnix, and in death a Swan.
Enter General.
Gen.
The Captive (Sir) is something livelier.
Fel.
How?
What doest thou say?
Gen.
That he is better.
Fel.
(Now
Aside.
Must he needs mend?) Good News: And I would do thee
Some good for bringing it.
Gen.
Heav'n keep him to thee.
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Love, I shall crush thee yet, as arrogant
As false too as thou art; As I am Man,
I may be staggered; but, as I'm a King,
(Born for more Sov'raign Ends) thou canst not throw me,
We, should, with sprawling of our Childish Arms,
The cruel Serpents of Alcides strangle:
We, in the midst of all the Sirens Charms,
Should the wise caution of Ulisses carry.
Let my desire be tam'd, and not
My Obligation be forgot;
I more provoking Envy's Sting
As virtuous, than as being a King;
The World admiring in my Pains
Sober Madness, and free Chains.
Exeunt.
Trumpets, Enter the Queen Zelidaura, her Head-dress full of Plumes; Roselinda Lady of Honour to her, Prince Claridoro, and Train, as in heat of Argument, begun in the Tyring-Room.
Zel.
My Will to me's a Law. If it appear
Prepost'rous for a Woman Arms to bear,
Let it suffice I make the Precedent.
Since there be Men effeminately bent,
We Manly Women must that wrong undo;
For you see sometimes Nature can lie too.
Claro.
Brave Zelidaura, thy Heroick Mind
Who does not wonder at?
Zel.
Little inclin'd
Always to sloath, the Pride I have, I place
In a great Heart, and not in a fair Face.
If on the Borders of my Land, we have
A Novelty so manifoldly brave,
A woing Warfare, this Inchanted Queen,
A Beauty the more sought the less 'tis seen,
Nor of less difficulty to the Wit
Than to the Sword, shall I not step to see't?
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Giving the frailty of my Sex the Lye?
Not, that my Courage hath so much of heat,
As to thrust Prudence wholly from her seat;
So metled I am not, as if that I
Affected it to quit deformity;
Nor yet so foolish as some Women are,
Who for that only do suspect they 're fair.
Claro.
Heav'n, that created thee thus warlike, stole
Into a Woman's Body a Man's Soul.
But Nature's Law in vain thou do'st gainsay:
The Woman's Valour lies another way.
The Dress, the Tear, the Blush, the witching Eye,
More witching Tongue, are Beauty's Armory:
To rally, to discourse in Companies
Who's fine, who courtly, who a Wit, who wise
And with the awing sweetness of a Dame
(As conscious of a Face, can Tigers tame)
By Tasks and circumstances to discover
Amongst the best of Princes the best Lover;
(The Fruit of all those Flowers) who serves with most
Self diffidence, who with the greatest boast;
Who twists an Eye of Hope in brayds of Fear,
Who silent (made for nothing but to bear
Sweet scorn and injuries of Love) envyes
Unto his Tongue the Treasure of his Eyes:
Who, without vaunting shape, hath only Wit,
Nor knows to hope reward, though merit it:
Then, out of All, to make a Choice so rare
So lucky-wise as if thou wert not fair.
Zel.
Will men ne're leave this freak? that Beauties fate
Is neither to the wise, nor fortunate?
Envy would have it so, She usher'd in
This vulgar Errour, or some scorn'd Mans Spleen
Or homely Womans Comfort. Prince, that Dame
Who lets her self be lov'd with a true Flame,
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Will look, when she must afterwards be rude.
Should I examine if this Mans a Gull,
Or th'other Gull a Lover? Poor, and dull!
To render him the object of my Care,
Who should be of my Scorn! Only Despair
Will I allow to Men, nor can dispence
With so much shew of hope, as diligence.
What a fond antiquated Errour? (Save me!)
I must call't Love, because a Man would have me
For his none-self: He swears he's mine alone;
Then (grosely) prays me not to be my own.
Ros.
Sounds it not merit unto thee for one
To serve thee, who is braver than the Sun?
Zel.
Would'st thou have me admire and value than
The painted Plumes of any Peacock-Man?
I've Pride enough my self. It makes me smile
(And yet I'm vext) to hear what Love the stile
And serving in a Gallant; to new sheath
Himself each day, not let his Mistress breath,
But haunt her to the Park, or to the Bourse,
On that the vulgar call a goodly Horse;
Hat in the hand, her colours in the hat,
Then tell her with a trembling boldness—(What?)
That he's an Ass; Affect a diffidence,
Yet wear her Porch out; making diligence,
Smell rank of Hope. If Importunity
Is call'd Desert, what more absurd can be
Than for a fair one to become his prey
That hunts her down? Let Greater ASIA
Her Princes send their Valours here to prove:
I would see Fighting, and not hear of Love.
Ros.
Our Ancestresses would; but we (more wise)
The Ignis fatuus of Love despise.
Claro.
These Ceremonies which thou seek'st to bar,
From the first hallowing fundamental are
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Secret, and stout, and gay; of a compleat
Lover, are the Ingredients: And in Spain
The gallant Mock-war of the Bulls, and Cane
Doth in a Courtly Valour comprehend
Both that which you, and that which I commend:
For those fierce Games (though Sports they called are)
Proclaim in jest what Men in earnest dare.
Zel.
Secret (quoth you!) If he must trusted be
With nothing, what's his secrecy to me?
Thou (CLARIDORO) do'st extremely erre,
If thou think'st Courtships can this Bosom stir;
Not my Affection, Body, Air, and Meen;
But Soul, Deeds, Virtues, purchase my Esteem.
Thy brave Youth hazzard in this Enterprize:
(For Sloth in Princes is a double Vice)
Whence, if thou conquer, thou com'st burnish'd forth
With Glory; if thou dye, what greater worth
Than to lose well a Life.
Claro.
But I keep mine,
To be spent better in some Cause that's thine;
Mean while, at thy adored Feet it lies:
And where can be a nobler Enterprise,
Than to o'recome thy Love's disdainful, high
And Beautiful Impossibility?
'T has more of danger in it too: For there
My Valour combats, but with Thee my Fear.
If thou dispraisest Praise, neglectest Care,
And hatest to be lov'd, why art thou fair?
Zel.
I am not fair, nay fair I will not be;
And less endure to be so call'd by thee.
If Truth, where is the favour? if a Lye,
It mends me not. What vain Civility!
(I wonder it should please some as it doth)
A great Lye 'tis, and would be a small Truth.
Claro.
Be not displeas'd that I thy Beauty praise;
'Tis a Debt which my Eye owes, and my Tongue pays:
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Zel.
If I have thine, where? Shew me my Receipt.
Claro.
'Tis well: The anger of a Mistress swells
In thee; in me a Lover's Patience dwells.
Ros.
If all thy Servants thus thou entertain,
I look this Prince too should be bond, or slain;
For of the other nothing yet is known.
Zel.
Ay, and absence kill'd him, he hath done
The part of a Wiseman and of a Lover.
Claro.
Th'Inchanted Castle doth it self discover.
Zel.
A goodly Fabrick!
Claro.
Princely!
Zel.
If the Cloud
Shine so, what does the light that it does shroud?
Claro.
The two wings various workmanship seems rather
A Sphear, than Pallace; Miracle, than either.
Zel.
The uniform and equal structure vyes
Twin-Beauties so, 'tis Musick of the Eyes!
And its perfections (greater their fame)
The stile of Royal, for Divine disclaim!
Ros.
It shews 'midst so much Beauty, as delights,
A Majesty that awes, Honour that frights.
What Monsters muster!
Claro.
That of Creet (I think)
I am surveying, and his Labyrint.
Zel.
Here hangs a Trumpet.
Claro.
'Tis, without all doubt,
T' advise when any strangers are without.
Zel.
Blow it, and call.
Ros.
Is it no more but so?
Madam, when thou do'st call, do'st thou not know
Thou call'st a thousand Monsters?
Zel.
Pish! We may
Be, without fears, all Ladies—Blow, I say.
One Blows the Trumpet, to which they answer from within with another, and a Gyant appears upon the Battlement.
Gy. 1.
Th'Advent'rer, who?
Ros.
(Dire shape.)
Zel.
'Twere not amiss
To learn before what the Adventure is.
Gy. 1.
You would not use your hands then, but your feet.
Zel.
With civil Gyant shall one never meet?
Claro.
He knows not thee.
Zel.
How many have pretence
To Valour, only by their Insolence!
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Excuse them, Madam, the Books make them so.
Gy. 1.
Approaching Knights themselves in Armour show.
Ros.
Again? I fear me here will be a fray.
Zel.
A Troop of Horse? My Genius feasts to day.
Ros.
Madam, we are not safe.
Zel.
Mask'd in this dress
Here will I stand to witness the success.
Ros.
But, Madam, why hast thou not made a new
Inchanted Castle for thy Beauty too?
Zel.
Because that Beauty hath a stronger fence
Which is immur'd with its own innocence.
Sound Trumpets.
Ros.
All's War.
Zel.
Thy Fortune in th'Adventure try.
Claro.
Ah! how much more's th'Inchantment of that Eye.
Exeunt.
Enter Felisbravo, the General, and Rifaloro in the Spanish Habit, or how they will, out of the Persian, as in Journey towards Tartaria, Felisbravo replying to their disswasions from it.
Fel.
This is Love (start not at the word) 'twill blind
Soonest the clearest sight, and (read) you 'l find
Great Lover, and Great Prince, went ever joyn'd.
Soonest the clearest sight, and (read) you 'l find
Great Lover, and Great Prince, went ever joyn'd.
It is a Spirit, an immortal Guest,
The prop'rest Passion of a Kingly brest,
As higher by the head than all the rest.
The prop'rest Passion of a Kingly brest,
As higher by the head than all the rest.
If Bounteous, prudent, constant, valiant,
Secret, and affable, and vigilant,
Are Royal Stiles; and Love is all these things:
See, if good Lovers will not make good Kings.
“'Tis a dull Wisdom not to love, a curst
“Imperfect Virtue; and it is at worst
“A Manly fault high Beauty to adore.
'Tis fit my youth [divinely bent] explore,
Not sweet variety to please my taste,
But (to contemplate on) a Phœnix chast:
Whom having found, out of the vulgar path,
My Soul (then wholly taken up with Faith)
Shall shut out hope; For this pure Spirit that grasps
In its immenseness whatsoever Heav'n clasps,
And Earth, contains yet but one Will; which one
Should be so brave, and firmly mov'd upon
Her centre, as to love eternally
In a Life's moment: So without a Why,
As if all Beauty it were death to covet,
Or (saving only to love it) to love it,
As if, ev'n to deserve, were to encroach,
And the least spark of favour, Faith's reproach.
Then, rackt with passion, to confess i'th'end
A flame, which only pardon shall pretend,
“Who (loving much) himself hath little sought,
“If fault it be, hath done a civil fault.
“Nor added to (in his more noble fire)
“The sin of Love the crime of a desire:
“Forcing his Mistress with too close pursuit
“To kick him off with an enraged foot.
“Importun'd pity causes just disdain:
Whilst self-denyers may enjoy their pain.
Secret, and affable, and vigilant,
Are Royal Stiles; and Love is all these things:
See, if good Lovers will not make good Kings.
“'Tis a dull Wisdom not to love, a curst
“Imperfect Virtue; and it is at worst
15
'Tis fit my youth [divinely bent] explore,
Not sweet variety to please my taste,
But (to contemplate on) a Phœnix chast:
Whom having found, out of the vulgar path,
My Soul (then wholly taken up with Faith)
Shall shut out hope; For this pure Spirit that grasps
In its immenseness whatsoever Heav'n clasps,
And Earth, contains yet but one Will; which one
Should be so brave, and firmly mov'd upon
Her centre, as to love eternally
In a Life's moment: So without a Why,
As if all Beauty it were death to covet,
Or (saving only to love it) to love it,
As if, ev'n to deserve, were to encroach,
And the least spark of favour, Faith's reproach.
Then, rackt with passion, to confess i'th'end
A flame, which only pardon shall pretend,
“Who (loving much) himself hath little sought,
“If fault it be, hath done a civil fault.
“Nor added to (in his more noble fire)
“The sin of Love the crime of a desire:
“Forcing his Mistress with too close pursuit
“To kick him off with an enraged foot.
“Importun'd pity causes just disdain:
Whilst self-denyers may enjoy their pain.
Rif.
There's no such Lyar as your Lover is:
Not one of them but says, not one does, this.
Would'st thou have humane Love without desire?
No, all below is culinary fire,
Talk what they will.
Fel.
The Captive dy'd, and me
This Zelidaura's Beauty calls, to see
If fame have not been lavish in her Praise;
And, following the bright Lanthorn of her Raies,
(Pretending to that God a Pilgrimage
Whom superstitious Greeks adore in Delos)
16
For I would quit as many, in her quest,
As Spain possesses, or old Rome possest.
But, if I greater than a Kingdom be,
(Since where I am, I am not without me)
What do I quit?
Gen.
Although there is no Law
Which can a Countrey, and a People awe
Like their King's Eye; thou leav'st at the stern two
Great Statesmen, whose least praise, is that they bridle
Envy's black Muzzel; who, of themselves good,
Surpass themselves in goodness; since we see
They are the better ev'n for fear of thee.
Fel.
Their Zeal and prudent Courage prop my Throne:
Yet I too am not absent, though from home
For Princes care is over all that's theirs:
Nor can good Kings have evil Counsellors.
A King should be all Eye and Ear; he shou'd
Be learned, to be wise; wise, to be good.
Rif.
I quake: This Prince was born to rule the World.
O the transcendent baseness of a pack
Of Hounds, of us, who (with what we call Loyalty)
Not follow, but ev'n hunt so sweet a King,
And worry him! For those, whom I have known
To boast most faith, and pure devotion,
Have never been concern'd how Riches Stream
Ebb'd with our Master, so it flow'd with them.
Gen.
In Rifaloro (for thy Recreation)
Thou hast a Mirth without scurrility,
An understanding wrap'd in Raylery.
In him is found a sober Madness, sport
Without abuse; all very new in Court.
A Man so honest, that he will (I know)
Speak always truth to thee.
Rif.
He will not though.
Nor lye, nor truth, shall from my mouth proceed,
(Good my Lord General, there's no such need)
17
Not truth, for it belongs not to my place.
My gay and frolick humour shall dispence,
Not lyes (I scorn't) not truths (they give offence.)
I, Truths? I'm not a Fool to that degree,
'T would count'nance lyes, to have truths told by me.
Gen.
Such then about all Majesty should come,
As will tell Truths, and whom Truths will become.
Sound a Trumpet within.
Fel.
What's that?
Rif.
A Trumpet here?
Fel.
I'm ravish'd! this
To noble Ears the sweetest Musick is.
Amongst these Trees a stately Pile I spy,
Fair butt of the Desire, bound of the Eye.
Gen.
Is 't not the Sphear of that Illustrious Queen?
Thy Heart's strong Load-stone, drawing it unseen?
Fel.
We are not got so far as Tartary:
For yet we tread the Happy Araby.
Gen.
Draw neerer let us.
Fel.
Rather let us balk
Vain Curiosities: For, when I walk
Another way then towards my North Pole,
I am complain'd upon by my own soul.
Gen.
See, various Works, and strange Inscriptions under,
Where Novelties lay to arrest our wonder.
Fel.
It says here:
Reads upon the Gate.
I am a Bondage, or I am a Prize:
I Marry with the Valiant, and the Wise:
Valiant or Wise, alone, will not suffice.
—And it says here:
I Marry with the Valiant, and the Wise:
Valiant or Wise, alone, will not suffice.
Beauty is deny'd a voice,
In making for it self a choice:
'Cause Reason would not trust a Bliss
I' a thing so prone to chuse amiss.
In making for it self a choice:
'Cause Reason would not trust a Bliss
I' a thing so prone to chuse amiss.
18
I cannot reach.
Rif.
I can.
Gen.
Then, prethee, say.
Rif.
To make wise fools of all that pass this way.
Fel.
Let's call.
Rif.
Here hangs a Trumpet: Must we call?
Gen.
Blow't, Rifaloro, do.
Fel.
If here I shall
Be held, but for one instant, my Love mourns:
For a true Lover's Heart sits upon Thorns.
They call as before, and a Trumpet answers from within, and another different Gyant comes up, who puts off his Hat.
Rif.
They come.
Gy. 2.
Your pleasure, Knight? Draw near.
Rif.
What's that?
'Fig for your Courtship! Prodigal of Hat;
Thou sleep'st in sheets, drink'st thy Sherbet with Snow,
And wait'st on Ladies (doubtless) to a Show:
A Gyant A-la mode—
Gy. 2.
What is your Worships pleasure?
Rif.
Worships too?
Mountain of Bone, if thou canst tell us, do,
What is embraced by this Castle's Dyke?
Say, prodigy; to humane creature like.
Gy. 2.
The fair Claridiana, who gives Laws
To all this Countrey: For so strange a cause,
And in so strange a way, Inchanted here,
As (if you are at leisure) you shall hear.
The first Gyant comes up very angry, and the second sneaks away.
Gen.
Say on.
Gy. 1.
Peace, Busy; get you whence you came.
Gy. 2.
I go.
Rif.
He seems a Gyant, is a Lamb.
Gy. 1.
Who is't would be inform'd?
Rif.
A Squire.
Gy. 1.
A Squire?
Squires are no piece of History: Retire.
Rif.
O Rogue! as long as this year and the last!
Vizard of Valour!
Gy. 1.
Squire? It makes me—
Rif.
Nay, I deserve no better: Was I drunk,
To raise that scandal on my self? Thou, Trunk;
Thou, Pomontory; thou, deluge of flesh;
Some Errant Knight with a white face shall thresh
19
With glittering Morglay: For the gentle slit
Over the Nose would never Gyant fit.
Gy. 1.
Out, Worm!
Gen.
Great Porter (Gyant is no more)
Answer.
Gy. 1.
(Th'art troublesome) Upon what score?
Wert thou a Knight, I would; but with this Mace
I'l come, and purge you All out of the place.
Fel.
Must I hear this, and purse up the disgrace?
Rude, saucy, arrogant.
Gy. 1.
('Twere good, in troth,
If Gyants should take notice of such froth.)
Exit.
Fel.
Knock, knock a thousand times, for I am—
Rif.
(What,
Orlando Furioso?)
Fel.
A new Hercules
To break in fitters these enchanted Gates.
But, what's Claridiana unto Me?
Whether the wonder of the Earth she be,
Or Envy of the Heav'n? Away, away;
My Soul crys shame on me for this delay.
Gen.
Sir, though Love spur you, and your heart say no,
Sleep, rest, repose a little; since you go
So tyr'd: Do more for Nations (whose Lives sheath
Themselves in yours) than for one Picture; Breath:
Enjoy this cool cessation of the Sun,
The gentle April's greenest Mansion.
Rif.
This flowry Wood (so well describ'd) enjoy;
Thy love goes too, if thou thy life destroy.
Gen.
Sit by this silver-fed, and murmuring—
Rif.
Means he by that a Courtier? or a Spring?
Gen.
I go to see the Palfreys, do not move
From the King, Rifaloro.
Rif.
Of this Grove
Exit General.
I am the sleepy Burgess.—Sleep'st not thou?
Fel.
Ill custom this of sleeping; a dull badge
Of humane frailty: Thief of love and life.
Rif.
Has the world such a pastime, as dear Sleep?
20
And for some certain time of nothing think;
But, if I were a King, I'd never lay
My lids together, to reign night and day.
Fel.
If sleep invade me strongly, That may sever
My life some minutes from me, my love never.
But 'tis impossible to sleep (we know)
Extended on the Rack: If that be so,
Takes out the Picture.
Dumb Larum, come thou forth: Eloquent Mute,
For whom high Heav'n and Earth commence a Suit:
Of Angel-woman, fair Hermaphrodite!
The Moon's extinguisher! the Moon-days night!
How could so small a Sphear hold so much day?
O sleep! now, now, thou conquer'st me.—But stay:
That part thou conquer'st, I'l not own for mine,
Tempest I seek, not calm: If the days thine,
Thou quell'st my body, my Love still is whole:
I give thee all of that which is not Soul.
And, since in Lodgings from the Street Love lies,
Do thou (and spare not) quarter in my Eyes
A while; I harb'ring so unwelcome Guest
(As Men obey thy Brother Death's arrest)
Not as a Lover, but a Mortal—
He falls a sleep with the Picture in his hand.
Rif.
He's faln a sleep; so soon? What frailty is?
More like a Husband, then a Lover, this.
If Lovers take such sleeps, what shall I take,
Whom pangs of Love, nor Honour's Trumpets, 'wake?
Rifaloro falls asleep.
21
Zel.
Solitude, of Friends the best,
And the best Companion;
Mother of Truths, and brought at least
Every day to bed of one:
In this flow'ry Mansion
I contemplate how the Rose
Stands upon thorns, how quickly goes
The dismaying Jesamine:
Only the Soul, which is divine,
No decay of Beauty knows.
And the best Companion;
Mother of Truths, and brought at least
Every day to bed of one:
In this flow'ry Mansion
I contemplate how the Rose
Stands upon thorns, how quickly goes
The dismaying Jesamine:
Only the Soul, which is divine,
No decay of Beauty knows.
The world is beauty's Mirrour; Flow'rs,
In their first virgin-purity
Flat'rers both of the Nose and Eye,
To be cropt by Paramours
Is their best of Destiny.
In their first virgin-purity
Flat'rers both of the Nose and Eye,
To be cropt by Paramours
Is their best of Destiny.
And those nice darlings of the Land,
Which seem'd Heav'ns painted bow to scorn,
And bloom'd the envy of the morn,
Are the gay trophy of a hand:
Which seem'd Heav'ns painted bow to scorn,
And bloom'd the envy of the morn,
Are the gay trophy of a hand:
We, that are Queens, in stile and power.
Serve but to take up a Man's Game,
Into his hands to put the same,
Who may neglect us the next hour.
“She on whom greatness Heav'n doth showre,
“If she the Main is, or the By,
The means of knowing is debarr'd;
Therefore my Crown I would discard,
Because it lets me not descry
Whether my Fortune's lov'd, or I.
Serve but to take up a Man's Game,
Into his hands to put the same,
Who may neglect us the next hour.
“She on whom greatness Heav'n doth showre,
“If she the Main is, or the By,
The means of knowing is debarr'd;
Therefore my Crown I would discard,
Because it lets me not descry
Whether my Fortune's lov'd, or I.
22
I am not foul, nor very proud,
Yet, out of measure jealous grown,
Least Suitors (who my Pallace croud)
Are come a woing to my Throne.
But, as in vain, with rueful tone
Yet, out of measure jealous grown,
Least Suitors (who my Pallace croud)
Are come a woing to my Throne.
But, as in vain, with rueful tone
The am'rous Birds in flow'ry Vales
Tell the fair Morn a thousand Tales;
In vain do me these Lovers haunt:
Little Twat'lers, ignorant
Importuning Nightingales.
Tell the fair Morn a thousand Tales;
In vain do me these Lovers haunt:
Little Twat'lers, ignorant
Importuning Nightingales.
With shooting I'll divert me—
Rifaloro talks in his sleep, at which Zelidaura startles, and, turning, spies Felisbravo.
Rif.
(Rare sops!)
Zel.
I hear a Man—A Knight there lies,
Who, in a Picture (eyes) the vaunted spoil
Of some Court Beauty (whom he will beguile)
Holds in his hand the Idol of his eyes.
She draws nearer him.
He sleeps; she loves him, by this light:
For Men, if handled with disdain,
Cannot sleep (they're in such pain;)
But if once they're lov'd, good night.
For Men, if handled with disdain,
Cannot sleep (they're in such pain;)
But if once they're lov'd, good night.
Sleep, and Love, are two blind Gods
That have always liv'd at odds.
Therefore th'Man that sleep is taking
Little cares for him who's waking.
That have always liv'd at odds.
Therefore th'Man that sleep is taking
Little cares for him who's waking.
Lullaby'd in Favours lap,
No wonder this should take a nap.
—Bless me! She loves him past all bound,
His sleep could not be else so sound.
No wonder this should take a nap.
—Bless me! She loves him past all bound,
His sleep could not be else so sound.
23
He, her for ends, I lay my life;
Those compast, his flame dyes.
Sure, he consider'd her his Wife,
For she hath clos'd his Eyes.
Those compast, his flame dyes.
Sure, he consider'd her his Wife,
For she hath clos'd his Eyes.
O that her self had napping catch'd
Her Knight! that she might weep
To see the much, for him sh' has watch'd,
Rewarded with a sleep.
Her Knight! that she might weep
To see the much, for him sh' has watch'd,
Rewarded with a sleep.
That she with rage might understand,
In Men, that Truth most prize,
How soon a favour in their hand
Is less'ning in their eyes.
She draws yet nearer.
In Men, that Truth most prize,
How soon a favour in their hand
Is less'ning in their eyes.
Lover (because ungrateful's worse,
I say not foolish Lover)
Thou shouldst have put it in a purse,
The disesteem to cover.
I say not foolish Lover)
Thou shouldst have put it in a purse,
The disesteem to cover.
I'l take it from him: Let him wake
As rightly serv'd, as inly madded,
Fond Ship-wreck of a Bliss to make,
Which he despis'd because he had it.
Takes the Picture from him.
As rightly serv'd, as inly madded,
Fond Ship-wreck of a Bliss to make,
Which he despis'd because he had it.
Lady, thou art reveng'd by me;
Without thee let him 'bide,
Who, being in thy company,
Could take himself aside:
Without thee let him 'bide,
Who, being in thy company,
Could take himself aside:
Whom favour made to face about:
Who neither loves thee, nor did keep—
Looks upon the Picture.
Who neither loves thee, nor did keep—
But, what is this! without all doubt
I dream, if he's asleep.
I feel a hidden hand distil
A poyson slow into my will.
I dream, if he's asleep.
24
A poyson slow into my will.
My Organs in their places stand?
'Tis I (unhappy Beauty!)
I, limn'd? And in a Poltroons hand
That sleeps upon his duty?
'Tis I (unhappy Beauty!)
I, limn'd? And in a Poltroons hand
That sleeps upon his duty?
Where's the due reverence to my state?
(Heavens!) What is this face become?
I, pocketted? And by a Mate
That uses me for Opium?
(Heavens!) What is this face become?
I, pocketted? And by a Mate
That uses me for Opium?
The Root of Womans Pedegree
Makes me fear my self his Bride;
Because my self I taken see
(Whil'st he sleepeth) from his side.
Makes me fear my self his Bride;
Because my self I taken see
(Whil'st he sleepeth) from his side.
I should love him by One Token,
That his sleeps are so unbroken;
But he wrongs me (I'm sure) by two,
Pictur'd, and neglected too.
That his sleeps are so unbroken;
But he wrongs me (I'm sure) by two,
Pictur'd, and neglected too.
To know who 'tis, more fear in me
Then Curiosity doth move:
For little is his Quality;
If 'tis not greater than his Love.
Then Curiosity doth move:
For little is his Quality;
If 'tis not greater than his Love.
Another fault I cannot find:
A sweeter Man my Eyes ne're saw!
Here were a Lover, if his Mind
One by his Face and Shape could draw.
A sweeter Man my Eyes ne're saw!
Here were a Lover, if his Mind
One by his Face and Shape could draw.
If I have cost thee Love, (a pain
Thou hast so rare an Art to hide)
Thee I conjure, for my disdain
Sufficiently be qualified.
She hears the footing of some-body.
Thou hast so rare an Art to hide)
Thee I conjure, for my disdain
Sufficiently be qualified.
25
(People approach.) Mask'd with my fear
In this same place again I'll be,
To know news of him—(Love, hold there)
I was about to say—Of me.
In this same place again I'll be,
To know news of him—(Love, hold there)
I was about to say—Of me.
Exit.
Enter Claridoro calling after her.
Claro.
Hear (fair one) thou a Man hast slain,
Yet fly not for it;
For, besides that 'tis in vain,
'T will make the fact more horrid:
In vain: for (Flow'rs up-growing
Where thou art going)
O ZELIDAURA, see
Each Rose accuses and confesses Thee!
Yet fly not for it;
For, besides that 'tis in vain,
'T will make the fact more horrid:
In vain: for (Flow'rs up-growing
Where thou art going)
O ZELIDAURA, see
Each Rose accuses and confesses Thee!
Through this dark Wood I shoot,
Where thy scorns lead,
And (Pencil of the Mead)
Thy Milky Foot
A Miracle doth show,
That the red Flowers should spring from the white Snow.
Where thy scorns lead,
And (Pencil of the Mead)
Thy Milky Foot
A Miracle doth show,
That the red Flowers should spring from the white Snow.
If thou 'rt enraged to find
My Murdress, I declare,
My silence doth prepare
To pacifie thy Mind.
My Murdress, I declare,
My silence doth prepare
To pacifie thy Mind.
But (Heavens!) How is that possible,
Since when I tell my fear, my Love I tell?
Since when I tell my fear, my Love I tell?
Felisbravo wakes, and begins to speak to the Picture.
Fel.
Can, Can it be that I have slept?
Then let my sin my pennance be,
For all that while I have been kept
(Companion for a God) from thee.
Misses the Picture.
Then let my sin my pennance be,
For all that while I have been kept
(Companion for a God) from thee.
26
Hah! The Picture? I had rather
My self were lost, (O heav'nly Father!)
He whom to wake that could not make,
Let him sleep, and never wake.
My self were lost, (O heav'nly Father!)
He whom to wake that could not make,
Let him sleep, and never wake.
In my Coffin I should blush
Though I now dy'd of Grief and Love.
One Life would for offending thus
But slender expiation prove.
Though I now dy'd of Grief and Love.
One Life would for offending thus
But slender expiation prove.
If I dye, my grief dies too,
If I would kill grief and all,
Death hath something else to doe.
Than to come when Wretches call.
If I would kill grief and all,
Death hath something else to doe.
Than to come when Wretches call.
If I dye in fine, in vain
Will a demi-cure be wrought:
Death, that takes away my pain,
Cannot take away my fault.
Will a demi-cure be wrought:
Death, that takes away my pain,
Cannot take away my fault.
Live then, I, and live my Grief;
Wander my surviving Ghost
(Stripped of her Solace chief)
Round about this treasure lost.
Wander my surviving Ghost
(Stripped of her Solace chief)
Round about this treasure lost.
Let my Soul a stranger be
To what e're of comfort tasts;
And my Body dying see,
Whilst long-lived sorrow lasts.
To what e're of comfort tasts;
And my Body dying see,
Whilst long-lived sorrow lasts.
Ill on me is well bestow'd,
I have deserv'd so cross a fate,
Whose misfortune most is show'd
In that I once was fortunate.
I have deserv'd so cross a fate,
Whose misfortune most is show'd
In that I once was fortunate.
Claro.
What does he prole about for here?
Fel.
'Tis stoln from me (my Anger grow—)
This Man hath stoln it—Cavalier,
I'm one the World (I'd have you know)
This Man hath stoln it—Cavalier,
I'm one the World (I'd have you know)
27
Hath bourn so great, that (though in jest)
I cannot any wrong digest;
And (by none else to be dismay'd)
Of my own name I am afraid.
I cannot any wrong digest;
And (by none else to be dismay'd)
Of my own name I am afraid.
Never did I, my whole Life long,
With Raunts (you understand)
Give to a Braggadocia Tongue
The office of the Hand.
With Raunts (you understand)
Give to a Braggadocia Tongue
The office of the Hand.
Therefore, in courteous sort I pray,
Deliver the Sun back.
Deliver the Sun back.
Claro.
What means the Man?
Fel.
My Soul I say,
Which I too long do lack.
Claro.
Is he not mad?
Fel.
Think not to put me off,
By putting strangeness on; with it, in one
Pencil, restore a thousand rays, a thousand
Suns in one Picture.
Claro.
Yet, I cannot reach him.
Fel.
Restore it, or (I vow to Jove) th'art dead.
Claro.
I neither know your meaning, neither fear
Nor esteem you: For let me tell you—
Rifaloro wakes, and gets upon his fees in a great fright.
Rif.
What clattering's this?
Fel.
Not understand me? little
Know'st thou whom thou offend'st.
Claro.
Thou know'st me little.
Rifaloro draws and puts himself on the side of Claridoro.
Rif.
Do, tame that Colt.
Fel.
Thou do'st misken me doubtless.
Rif.
No, no, but to help one (a Medicine try'd)
Clap a hot Coward to the other side.
Fel.
No fooling, my chaf'd fury shall consume him:
Once I have sworn.
Claro.
And, if my honest word
Thou wilt not take, I pawn thee here my Sword.
They fight, when suddenly let there be a noise within, many Inventions are shot off, and all that may move horrour and admiration. Trumpets and Drums loftily.
28
Fel.
What horrour! 'less Heav'n falls,
Th'Inchantment is dissolving: or these Walls.
The same.
The noise continues, sound Trumpets with much harmony and clash of War. Enter the General, and let a Draw-bridge fall from aloft, parting Felisbravo, and Claridoro, and within let there appear a stair-case, by which the Prince Floranteo is to descend richly clad, and with him the Gyants, and let many horrible shapes be seen: And enter Zelidaura like a Shepherdess, and with her Roselinda in the same habit.
Ros.
The Adventure is try'd doubtless by some Knight.
Zel.
Hide me (rough Bark) while I enjoy this sight.
But he that comes to try it, is the same
That wore my Picture. O, fair Knighthoods shame!
One Woman pictur'd, and another sought?
That thou a Traytor art, is thy own fault:
But, wert thou an ungrateful one, 'twere mine.
Let all the stair-case be coverd with Arms, and Appurtenances of War, and the covering and floor covered therewith, and let there sally out of the mouth of a Serpent a black Gyant armed with a Club, and spitting fire.
Gen.
The matter, Rifaloro?
Rif.
Do thou divine,
I cannot now the while, I do fear so;
Fear with me, and hereafter we shall know.
Floranteo puts himself between the two Adventurers.
Flo.
Generous Knights, ambitious of the honour
To interweave Laurel with Oak, and twist
MARS with APOLLO. From this dazling wonder,
From this fair Prodigie, from this (now) truth,
But a Romance to succeeding Ages,
This general Loadstone, Babel that threats Heav'n,
A great ill Neighbour with fantastick Towers
Your coming hath proceeded.
Hear what it promises, what it contains,
To what it binds, what it observes, what teaches:
29
Wise, learned, valiant,) in Arabia was
The last of all her Kings, whose Magick Voice,
Which silenc'd Circe's and Medea's Charms
(Bridle of Sea and Winds) gave the Stars Laws.
A Daughter had he (Natures Master-piece)
Who might boast verify'd in her perfections
All that base Flat'ry Lyes, so without Art
Handsome, that her unaided Beauty chides
The lyes and dims the truths of Rose and Snow,
Her (crown'd with Roses and pale Jesamines
A Maiden Queen) twelve flow'ry Springs being then
Out flourish'd by her Beauty, the sole Heir
Of her Sires Realm and Fame, and that so sole,
That she stands fair for sole Executrix
To the Arabian Phoenix—
He (judging Beauty fit to be an Empresse,
But an Electresse not, as having given
So frequent cause of sorrow and disgrace
To the unhappy Boasters of a face)
To all the Nobles of this Land presents
And in her hearing uses this plain Language,
One foot now in the grave. Love and Ambition
Will from the spatious Universe hereafter
Draw many Suitors to my Crown and Daughter:
I will not that endanger'd by the Syren
Of cruel Flattery (which sings in Rocks
T' intrap the wariest Ears) a false supplant,
Or soft heart counsel her, Misfortune dark'ning
The splendour of her Beauty; and, instead
Of chusing a Wise Husband and a Valiant
(Her Eye, perhaps, swaying her to a fair one)
A Coward or a Fool govern ARABIA,
This said (and seconded with a dire Spel)
The cleft Earth trembles, utt'ring to the Air
This glitt'ring Edifice; In which incloyst'ring
30
Of task on task secur'd) He one Inchantment
Locks in another, leaving (to the end
Great Souls may try th'Adventure) much for Valour
To cut, as much for Wisdom to untye;
To have Arabia so (Her Queen the Prize)
Defended by the Stout, Rul'd by the Wise.
For (to oblige his Realm) he did ordain
These two (which make one Perfect Prince) should Reign.
Then on, Young-men, A Beauty and a Crown
He gains that wins, the loser gains Renown.
Fel.
He who doth seek this Realm, this Beauty wish,
Let him these dangers conquer, court this Bliss:
Not he, who doth adore a greater Light,
And mourns its absence in a longsome night.
Zel.
One worn? One sought? A third lov'd? (facil Man!)
Fel.
Nor think inamour him that Scepters can,
Whose Mistress is all Dowry, who reproves
The Common truck of Mercenary Loves
By his more noble thoughts, and doth disclaim
All guerdon but the glory of his Flame.
Claro.
The same say I, and that I too adore
A greater Mistress, fortify'd with more
Impossibilities than Heav'n hath Lights.
Flo.
I must propose a Question: Are ye Knights?
Fel.
I am.
Claro.
And I.
Flo.
Then tell them (Brocadan)
The Law observed here by every Man.
Gy. 1.
The Law is this; That whatsoever KNIGHT
Presumes t'approach this famous CASTLES sight
Shall, if th'ADVENTURE he shall then eschue,
Confess himself a FOOL and COWARD too,
Else We, the GYANTS, and WILD BEASTS that wait
On our Commands, are bound to fight him straight.
Flo.
And Whoso tries it, and shall fail, that he
Remain behind t' expound the Mysterie.
31
But not the fortune to succeed therein.
Fel.
Such baseness do these barbarous Laws obtrude
On Knights, twice Valiant by their Oath and Flood?
I'll end th'Adventure, that another's Eyes
(More fair) may have a Rival to despise.
Claro.
Vyes he the Game? then I will see't,
Whose Lawrels here I vow,
For strewings to another's Feet,
Not garlands of my Brow.
Trumpets and Drums softly.
Flo.
Let the Trumpets give the sign
Let the second Draw bridge fall,
And to the proof of Wit divine
Both enter, for that first doth call.
The Draw-bridge falls down like a Percullis, and let Rocks full of horrour appear, and in them many dreadful Animals spitting fire.
This Labyrinth decides the thing,
Which he will shew he understands,
Who by the one door entering,
Comes forth by that which right against it stands
Fel.
Have at the Castle then.
Claro.
The same I say,
This day I am immortalliz'd.
Fel.
This day
Imp I new feathers in the Wings of Fame
With which to Heav'n she shall advance my Name.
Zel.
Clear Spirits both; and, if one's Wit burn dim,
I, in my Picture's right shall blush for him.
But, if he twice prove Victor, he must Marry
Th'Arabian Queen—It cuts two ways—
Rif.
They tarry
Exceeding long (me thinks) my little bit
What if try'd of Prowess, and of Wit?
'Tis but to thrid a Maze, and t' other thing
Of being Valiant, and I am a King.
32
Said not I, Squires are only to look on
In acts of Chivalry? Presto: Be gone.
Rif.
St. Belianis! a Snake stung my toe.
Zel.
In Court there's not a Worm but stings you know.
Rifaloro either flyes back, or is swallowed into the mouth of one of the Monsters, or a Gyant snatches him, and the Gyant goes out in wrath.
Sound Trumpets.
Within.
[Victoria! Victoria!]
Zel.
Who has won
The Prize of Wisdom?—
Claridoro enters at the contrary door.
Claro.
CLARIDORO.
Flo.
Son
Of Pallas, shadow with that Tree thy Head,
Which ciphers hope, and yet of scorns 'twas bred.
He proffers Claridoro a Crown of Lawrel, and he refuses it.
Claro.
No Conquest this, since for an unseen face,
And ZELIDAURA is not in the case.
Enter Felisbravo very angry at the same door by which he went it.
Fel.
I lost the Prize of Wit the (stuff that lines
A gallant Man) fond Errour! which defines
It Wit, a misty Labyrinth to hit,
More savouring of Memory than Wit,
Whose lofty Plumes to higher things aspire,
And fetch from Heaven the Promethean Fire.
Quite contrary, a Memory was never
A friend to Wit, but its discredit ever.
Zel.
The Man wants Brains, and well he may, that gives
His Mind to sleeping so, and idlely lives.
33
Flo.
Again, Young man. Those Monsters which did bear
Thy Wit respect, make now thy Valour fear.
Claridoro draws and charges, and the Monsters spit fire.
Claro.
All their grim horrour does but whet my Blade.
Have at you dogs.
Zel.
How bold he does invade!
Flo.
How bravely he attacks!
Claro.
But I aspire
Impossibles; for though my Soul's on fire,
Though it scorn all that's Monster, kick at danger,
My strength is not immortal like my anger.
O, Devils! Devils!—
Claridoro retires, and Felisbravo assaults the shut Gates, and they open in two parts, and the Gyants appear to stop his passage.
Fel.
This day it will be seen, if Heav'n think fit,
Valour shall recompence the the want of Wit.
I come, pale Monsters: Coward Beasts, 'Tis I:
In my Hand Thunder, Light'ning in my Eye.
The Serpents spit fire, and go retiring and sinking down, and let the Gyants come with their Clubs, and let there be much tumult and demonstration of war and danger.
Gen.
This can my valour suffer! to forsake
My King's brave side! Inchauntment I would make
My way thorough thee, and his displeasure too,
But that I know his Sword can more subdue.
Zel.
They run, they run, with steel, and terrour strook:
Trumpets and Drums.
His arm may play, he kills them with his look.
Let the Gyants and Wild Beasts fly sinking down.
Fel.
Fantastick dangers! Conquests of light Air!
Give me fresh Foes, for I have deaths to spare.
Floranteo Crowns him with Lawrel.
Within.
[Victoria! Victoria!]
Flo.
To thy Brow
This Lawrel MARS presents, there to root, grow,
34
Is now dissolv'd; In her it doth remain
To chuse: And (see!) her Godhead doth unshrowd,
Like Phœbus breaking glorious through a Cloud.
Cornets.
Let the Castle come down, with much Musick, and let doors fall open with Chrystal Casements, and much splendour, that it may be admirable to behold, and sitting in a Throne the Queen Claridiana with a Garland of Flowers upon her head.
What a rare Beauty!
Claro.
May she Wit abhor.
Zel.
Grant, Love, she may not like a Man of War.
Let Claridiana come forth of the Inchantment.
Cla.
Arrogant Knights, who (foolish and presumptuous)
Before you have been Suitors, would be Husbands,
One of you two ye look now I should chuse:
How fond and vain an Errour! since there be
Yet greater charms to overcome in Me.
'Twere more than time the disinchanted Queen
Thank'd both your Loves for taking down her skreen.
Could me by Conquest any Mortal claim,
Or by his Wit (as people win a Game)
I'd burn my self alive first. But, is 't Wit
The windings of a Labyrinth to hit?
To overcome two Serpents, a pretence
To be the Son of Mars? To speak a Prince
Valiant to cut and slash, doth not suffice,
Nor to resolve a Riddle stiles him wise.
Speaks to the Company.
To be a King (wise-valiant) of these twain
Which Battels wan? which Rul'd a Land with Brain?
If my free choice my unjust Father rest,
Why was my Will, why was my Reason left?
I, by Inchantments over-rul'd to be?
Not for two Thrones. My Body, but not Me,
35
For us to see, when all's agreed upon?
That our imposed Masters we must go
First to obey, and afterwards to know?
I ask not the sole making of my choice:
But why am I deny'd my Negative voice?
This Victory to me worse Thraldom is,
If it oblige me to be his, or his.
But it shall not, I'll love my self alone;
Not of the Wise nor Valiant, but mine Own.
Flo.
Madam, a Queen might well chuse either;
But of the two—
Cla.
This Queen likes neither.
I, for a Husband, the Discreet would have;
But, for a King, one both Discreet, and Brave.
One I'll not injure, nor to two belong:
Wise and stout you see are twain:
Then (till they be friends again)
If I refuse both, I do neither wrong.
But, for a King, one both Discreet, and Brave.
One I'll not injure, nor to two belong:
Wise and stout you see are twain:
Then (till they be friends again)
If I refuse both, I do neither wrong.
Zel.
How resolute, and how discreet!
Envy couches at her feet.
Fel.
How can be so wise, and fair,
One that is not ZELIDAURE?
Claro
O, how worthy my applause!
Though my Love another cause.
Zel.
I find I'm not in love, since I
Nor Envy feel, nor Jealousie.
Cla.
First plead the Cause, and try by dint of words
If Brain or Valour most adorns a King;
Those proving vain, then come t' appeal to Swords,
And let those tongues of steel decide the Thing:
He who the Bays of both these Duels gains,
May wear Claridiana for his pains.
Fel.
(How little I that Glory prize!)
Aside.
Claro.
(How much do I that Bliss despise!)
Aside.
36
Where we left off, remember Knight,
And the proud wrong which thou hast done.
They lay hands upon their Swords.
Claro.
Thy Insolence doth me incite
To end the Quarrel we begun.
Zel.
A Man who with my Picture came
To combat for another Dame!
I'm vext, but jealous not a whit.
Trumpets softly.
Hah! have we more Inchantments yet?
They begin to fight, and let there be a noise like the first, and let them be all divided, as if they saw not one another.
Claro.
The Earth is hid with terrours dire.
Fel.
Heaven lets down sheets of fire.
Gen.
What obscurity!
Claro.
What sadness!
Fel.
What horrour!
Zel.
What affright!
Cla.
What gladness!
Ros.
What fear!
Cla.
Let twice my Liberty
Victoria! Victoria cry.
Let them all disappear, the Draw-bridge he closed, the Percullis drawn up, and the whole vansh in a trice.
The End of the first Act.
| Querer Por Solo Querer : To Love only for Love Sake | |