University of Virginia Library

Scena prima.

Enter Calasiris Isis priest at Memphis.
[Calas.]
Am I the goodesse Isis priest, and burne
In these unlawfull fires? shall Rhodopis
With her Uenerious charmes subdue my heart,
And make me breake that temperance of life
Which I have hitherto preserv'd unspotted?
What shall I doe? I cannot stand the push
Of these strong passions, yet I am resolv'd
Nere to commit the act, nor so to staine
My priesthood with dishonour; Isis temple
And secret places shall not be defil'd
By Calasiris, no i'le rather bannish
My selfe from sight of cursed Rodopis,
Least staying here I should be forc'd to doe
So vile a deed; I am resolv'd to leave
This statelie City Memphis suddenly,
I'le give it out, my iourney is for Thebes
To see my eldest sonne call'd Thiamis.
VVith this pretence I shall unquestion'd goe,
But there's a City sacred to Apollo
In Greece hight Delphos, there i'le bend my course
(For tis a Colledge where wise men resort
Free from the concourse of the common people)
To visit my old friend priest Caricles.
When whorish beautie and vaine pride display
Their gaudie colours, wise men shun the way.

Exit.