THE FAMOUS TRAGEDY OF OSMOND The great TURK, Otherwise called the NOBLE SERVANT.  
Written by LODOWICK CARLELL, Gent.  
LONDON, Printed for Humphrey Moseley, at his shop at the Prince's arms in St. Paul's churchyard. 1657.   

dramatis Personae.  
Melcoshus, 
Emperor of Tartary.  Orcanes, 
His Son.  Osmond, 
The noble Servant.  Calibeus, 
A jealous Cham.  Odmer, 
faithful to the Emperor.  Haly, 
An aspiring traitor.  Hosa, 
Servant to Orcanes.  Eunuch. Prisoners. Soldiers. Captains. Mutes. Messenger. 
  Despina, 
A fair Christian Slave.  Ozaca, 
Wife to Calibeus.    

OSMOND the great turk, Or the NOBLE SERVANT.  

Actus Primus.  After an alarm, and people running over the Stage; Enter Osmond, a Tartar with his Sword bloody. Osm. 
THe City reeks with the warm blood of murdered Christians whose avarice hath made them & their wealth our prey. Sword! thou hast shed much blood, and of the first and noblest: not added by this arm; for thou to it lentest vigour: a virtue thou retain''st, since Melcoshus my great and royal Master buckled thee on my thigh, for which so unaccustomed favour and many other, when I forget still to adore him equal to our Prophet, may my death quickly follow; now if any thing ( charge.) like danger's left, that dare appear, I'll meet it. Exit.  Enter two soldiers, and Despina. 1. Sold. 
Villain hold off thy hands, she's my prize; what though thou first seized'st on her, is she a prey for so base a slave?  2. Sold. 
How, slave! I'll prove myself thy better.  Desp. 
Unhappy maid, must I become the cause of bloodshed, tho even of Tartars our Enemies, heavens forbid; hear me, you wrathful men, by your great prophet's name, I charge you: we Christians pacify our rage for our dear Masters; sake make a division of me and of my clothes, he to whose lot I fall, I'll be his faithful slave.  1. Sold. 
I am content; so I who am a Janisarie may have the better share of her person.  2. Sold. 
No, I'll have that, take thou her clothes and Jewels.  1. Sol. 
Then I'll have all.  Desp. 
Alas, why strive you for this worthless person, so far as lies in my ability I'll serve you both.  2. Sold. 
A good kind wench.  1. Sold. 
I am agreed; so I may first lie with her, to share her clothes and jewels.  Des. 
How, lie with me?  2. Sold. 
we'll cast lots.  1. Sold. 
Agreed.  Des. 
Divinity assist me, what mean these men? went I about to save their lives for this?  2. Sold. 
I am first.  1. Sold. 
You lie, she's mine.  Des. 
Oh I fear! Would that sword that pierced my Noble father's heart, had cut me from the world, ere this unhappy hour of my dishonour.  2. Sold. 
Leave her or thy life. ( Exeunt striving for her.)  Enter Melcoshus, Odmer, Haly, captains, and Prisoners. Mel. 
Thus soldiers, though cold hunger, and all impediments of war seem to block up our way, we have made passage by our unwearied valour: the gods were forced to give us victory, and such a victory as makes your King an Emperor, and you in honour and riches equal to Kings, I mean our Cham's; each private soldier's wealth equal some Christian Lords.  Odm. 
Our riches, lives, and honour we hold from our magnificent Emperor great Melco●●us, and as his slaves, thus low prostrate, we kiss his happy feet.  Mel. 
You see, dogs, it is not with us, as with your ruined Master; who when he pleaded with his best eloquence, as I have heard, to make his greedy Subjects open their coffers for their own safety, could not prevail with them: for they both base and foolish, rather chose to perish with their Idols, than to relieve the general necessity, and so have hazarded saving both life and honour, which makes me not restrain the soldiers from any insolency, though I know a city taken by assault to be the only stage, where rape, murder, and sacrilege is acted to the life.  Haly. 
Melcoshus is godlike-wise in all; those who forget their Emperor under whom they live, deserve no pity from a conquering enemy; our prophet hath appointed you his scourge; mercy unto his Enemies were cruelty to him.  Cap. 
Haly, do not incite to blood, he is nearest faultiness that way of any: should he grow thirsty by custom, we have not Christians enough always ready to quench that thirst; or, glutted with these, our own blood may be found perchance more sweet, if we grow rich or popular.  Haly. 
Captain, it is true; the fox would rather strive to abate than increase the lion's feirceness, since forced to obey and serve him.  Mel. 
Honest Odmer, thou careful servant of thy Master's honour and safety, their taxes shall be lessened, though their revolt cannot fright us: let all the Greek prisons of note be at our banquet that Osmond seems to whisper. we may glory in our triumph over them; some of their deaths we'll honour with our presence. These are base traitorous, betrayers of their country, self-murderer by their own avarice, away with them, and let the soldier exercise his rage upon them.  Enter Osmond and Despina: Pri. 
We are justly punished.  Osm. 
Dread Lord, behold a present which the meanest of your slaves intends to make you.  Mel. 
Is't a boy or a woman, unveil and show me?  Osm. 
Sir, a while your pardon, until I let you know that ignorantly I part not with this jewel, for I so well do understand the value, that were the citty-spoiles laid in one balance, the Empire too, and but this in the other, nay an assurance of a happy reign added to that, and on the other side but to enjoy this creature( to whom no attribute of excellence can be given high enough) one year, here were my choice.  Mel. 
Osmond, tho I have loved thee of a child, yet do not tempt that frown that's death: think not that state that I am now possessed of, admits any comparison of happiness, yet not content with this thou dost contemn my fortune; show me that argument of thy presumption, though excellent, but if not worthy our longing expectation, perhaps the cause of thy destruction: majesty delights not to be played with.  Osm. 
Pardon, dread sir, that man who shall affirm he hath an humbler soul towards great Melcoshus then Osmond, I dare him to the trial with this sword or faithfuller, which makes me sir assure you, you are in danger of your liberty, see not her face, for 'tis a woman so far I'll warn you, a weeping one, until you do withal consider she's your slave's slave, I mean my prisoner: were she less worthy; she had been my Mistress, but being thus excellent who can deserve to look on her but you, let her be covered still, for if I draw this veil, you then must yield, the thought of all your glories laid aside, and in her heavenly eyes read your aptivity.  Mel. 
Osmond, I see thou dotest thyself, and thinkst we must do so: delay no longer. ( he unveils her.)  Osm. 
Prepare then for a bondage which will bring delight above all freedom.  Mel. 
More, more, by all my glories, than was delivered! Osmond so well I like, cover her gives him his hand to kiss. face lest I do surfeit with beholding, nor must the vulgar equal me in such a happiness, my envy makes me find a torture for myself. Off with that vail, the meanest of creatures may behold the Sun: and as his beams in showry April breaks through the clouds, so does the lightning of her glorious eyes break through their watery circle, and grow more powerful by that opposition; so powerful, that a conquering Prince descends his throne and begs that he may hear you, whom fortune hath made his slave, yet to command both him and fortune; for sure your tongue cannot be less powerful than your eyes.  Des. 
Ah me unhappy Despina.  Mel. 
Divinest creature! rise and know thy happiness, thou shalt command Melcoshus, King of the Tartars, who not content with that, intends to make all Asia the subject of his victories.  Haly. 
Sir, fear and amazement have not yet forsaken her, let her be kept by your Eunuchs, till time and they make her more capable of your desires.  Mel. 
Thou counsellest well, see it performed: but let entertainment be such as may most delight, and soonest free her from her grief, I shall but languish till I may enjoy her.  Osm. 
Lady, you may boldly promise to yourself all joy the earth affords.  Des. 
The Gods reward your piety in saving of my life and honour; but joy be ever far from me. Exeunt Haly, Despina.  Mel. 
Tell me thou noble youth, how didst thou find this glorious creature, and what her name is?  Osm. 
She calls herself Despin. I found her so near being unworthy of me to give, or you to accept, that being saved it does increase her value; Two soldiers being fired with lust, strove which should first enjoy her, but seeing her a creature of such excellence, I thought my sovereign only worthy her embraces, and she a fit present for me to offer, which made me to oppose them both; and my intention being nobler gave victory to my weak arm, aided by this your gift.  Mel. 
Had they not perished so, they should have found a death with studied torments; name some Province thy reward.  Osm. 
Other reward then your acceptance would mark me for the server of your pleasure, an eunuch's office, and soil my act of duty: when I shall overthrow an enemy in field, or in some doubtful battle guard your sacred person than Sir, advance me to some honour if you please, for so I shall become the powerfuller to serve you; but for Despina think not of any recompense to me, for, by the Gods, the Empire were too little, did not my love and adoration of your sacred person force me to think she was created for You, not for a subject.  Mel. 
This freedom in any other had been death, in thee it but augments our love, be near Us.  
From whence?  Enter Messengers. Mes. 
From your son Orcanes who is arrived.  Mel. 
We have already appointed Callibeus for his host, to morrow he shall kiss Our hand. Exeunt.  Enter Callibeus. Cal. 
Our Great Cham out of his love appoints his son Orcanes to be my guest; this were an honour I confess to one that were not old and had a beauteous wife, such as my Ozaca is: but when the Prince shall view her, and she him, their very eyes shall speak to my dishonour, & conclude me a Cuckold in their desires, though they should ne'er converse. I'll let her know his coming hither, and from her behaviour gather how she approves of it: Ozaca.  Enter Ozaca. Ozaca. 
Your will.  Cal. 
Ozaca, the Prince Orcanes will strait be here, he for whose sake 'tis thought nature will turn a bankrupt, she hath in every part of him so played the prodigal; his face such as might make you take him for the beautifullest of women; yet through that beauty shines his father's spirit Great Melcoshus[ how her blood boil!] a personage equal to that; but then so courteous, though a Prince & eloquent with all, that every woman that but hears him speak, modestly thrown by, woes him to acts of love, in which he far outgoes belief[ by all my hopes my fears are true, I see a lustful languishing in her eyes] speak Ozaca, could you not be content( I being absent) to pass an hour in conference upon your couch with this young Prince, speak, could you not, ha?  Oza. 
Oh sir, your needless jealousies do make me miserable, but yourself more.  Cal. 
I see thy heart, strumpet, and it writes a resolution to dishonour me, and so revenge that which thou callest a needless jealousy in me, but, by our sacred Prophet, if thou shalt see this Prince except by chance, I'll pull thy eyes out; if converse with him, thy tongue; or write, thy hand is forfeit;  Oza. 
I find I am a woman, I long extremely, Aside. they say indeed he's wondrous handsome, and I have heard, seeing by chance my picture, he did not contemn my beauty.  Cal. 
It shall be so▪ go walk in the back garden I charge you, till I send for you. I would not have him see her, nor she him, no not at a window: it may be the Emperor will send him away ere long, but should he see Ozaca, I fear he would never leave my house: about this hour I expect him. Exit.  Enter Orcanes and Hosa. Ho. 
My Lord, you see this back way, you are free from the multitude of people, by whom I would not have you seen, till you appear to morrow like yourself; I have sent to advertise your host Callibeus, that you are entered this way by the back-garden.  Orc. 
'tis well; they say this Cham is most extremely jealous of his wife, we shall not see her sure.  Enter Ozaca. Ho. 
she's wondrous handsome, he hath reason—  Oza. 
O that I might but see this Prince.  Orc. 
Whose's that, sure 'tis the Lady of the house.  Oza. 
My wish— 'tis certainly the Prince, I'll seem to go away.  Orc. 
Nay, fly not Lady:  Oza. 
If you're the Prince Orcanes which I believe, my duty is a warrant for my stay.  Orc. 
Lady, I am Orcanes who come to be your guest. She unveils.  Oza. 
Sir, that assurance warrants me this further expression of my duty.  Orc. 
The Painter was a niggard of his skill, or grossly ignorant that drew your picture, but Art must ever yield to Nature in a piece so excellent, and come far short, since 'tis but imitation. Rise beauteous Lady, my father would not suffer this.  Enter Callibeus. Cal. 
Hell and confusion, what's this I see; peace, he's thy sovereign's.  Oza. 
My husband.  Cal. 
Behold your humble servant, who yields up the power both of himself and all that's his to your command.  Or. 
Thanks, Callibeus.  Cal. 
I am sorry your Highness came the worst way into the house.  Orc. 
I did it to avoid the press of people, but trust me I found the passage very pleasant.  Calli. 
He means his kissing you, but, whore, thou hast a life to lose.  Orc. 
I never saw a Garden where I received greater content, the Roses and the lilies are so finely mixed, that I could stand a year only to gaze on them.  Cal. 
By Mahomet, he means the beauty of my wife, which is my curse, Oh that she were a Negro. Speak Negro alone.  Orc. 
What's that you say, a Negro.  Cal. 
I say my Lord, those flowers you like were planted by a Negro, a skilful gardener.  Orc. 
There are some other rarities, that I would praise, but that I want words to express them, they are so excellent, I wish I did possess some such.  Cal. 
Palpable, by all my fears! she conceives his meaning too, and with the joy of it, I see her lustful heart leap in her bosom, but hush: wil't please your highness enter the house.  Orc. 
The superstitious More, Callibeus, does not behold the rising sun with greater reverence, than I his setting in a bright evening like to this: who knows when we shall have the comfort of his glorious beams again? either some envious clouds may interpose themselves betwixt us; that bright planet, jealous that we are not enough thankful may withdraw his comfortable heat, without which I would not wish to live.  Cal. 
'Tis true indeed, the Sun gives life to all and the most witty and industrious men make great profit by him; those who prepare the soil, & apt it for his beams receive greatest increase. Your highness, I fear, takes occasion by the Evenings brightness to excuse your entering under so mean a roof; but since the great Cham appointed you my guest to honour me; go Ozaca, and let the diligence of Servants strive to supply every defect, I'll send way the Sun he means.  Or. 
Nay, Callibeus, I would not have you think that we misdoubted your lodging or entertainment, we'll enter when you please, there is a cloud ready to oppose itself betwixt the Sun and us. Exit Orcanes.  Cal. 
The Prince in his discourse makes the Sun his bawd, his father I think did intend to torture me, no house but mine, you must be walking, whore, and entertain the Prince, but by our prophet thou shalt see no Sun. Exeunt Omnes.  
Finis Actus primi.   

Actus Secundus.  Enter Despina and an Eunuch. Des. 
What shall I say, I find I am a weak unconstant woman, sure I have lost myself, at least my grief; how pleasure and greatness gains upon our natures! I who wept at first each time their Eunuchs did me reverence, thinking they mocked me, now take a great delight in their observance: sent you for Osmond?  Eunuch. 
He waits without to know your pleasure, tho seldom hath been permitted by the great Cham that any should enter here, but he intends not to deny you any thing.  Enter Osmond. Des. 
Bring him in and leave us.  Osm. 
Thus low as to my Prince's Mistress! what was it you intended?  Des. 
That which civility tied me to, the offer of my lips, and not my robe to kiss, you saved my honour, a modest kiss to you could not impair it then.  Osm. 
Should I have kissed you & been seen, death was my sure reward, nor had the purchase been too dear, if so I had not been a traitor to myself and virtue in my disloyalty unto my prince.  Des. 
Think it no immodesty in me but ignorance of your strict customs: a salutation amongst Christians breeds no suspicion of ill.  Osm. 
Did ever any under the degree of a prince receive that honour?  Des. 
They have if you call that an honour.  Osm. 
Then it cannot be in me presumption to kiss your hand, yet I in this too far do stretch my duty.  Des. 
You Tartars bear a greater reverence to your earthly Lords than Christians, though you neglect him that should be most honoured; but this is from the cause I sent for you: In all that you have done or said that did concern me▪ if I be not an ill observer of man's passion you have expressed a love not to be equalled, withal so great a spirit, that even in midst of all my griefs your merits found a passage to my heart, and tho I see I shall be able to command Melcoshus, and in him the world, yet if you dare apply your courage to the performance of what I shall offer, and that effected become a Christian, I shall think myself happy, to be again wholly at your disposing, as I was when you did unkindly to yourself and me, bestow me on another.  Enter Melcoshus. Osm. 
The Great Cham. Exit Osmond.  Mel. 
Despina, accuse thy own excellence that makes me interrupt thy privacies, rather than me; for I so wholly am become thine, that but to live a minute from thee is a torment; Say beauty abstract, shall this day be more favourable than many that are past, may he who can command all, yet hope to obtain his suit?  Des. 
Could you command all, you would command that passion in yourself, which makes you strive to ruin my honour.  Mel. 
Can it be ruin to your honour, to set you on the highest point of honour, to make you the possessor and disposer of all that your imagination can propose.  Des. 
How can this be, when I cannot dispose of my poor unworthy self; give me my liberty.  Mel. 
You should have liberty, were you what you allege, unworthy; but it is your inestimable value, makes you a prisoner; what all Poets have feigned sweet or lovely in other women, is truth in you; these do so tie you to my heart, that should I grant you liberty, you would bear it a long, so all the empire should be governed by a heartless man: yet bribe me with one loving kiss and try. With how much scorn you turn away. I wrong that power that's given me from above, it was ordained I should command, not sue to any. Woman, beauteous woman, for more thou art not, what ere my dotage makes thee think thyself, consider I who may command, entreat, but if refused the violence of my affection will compel me to use force.  Des. 
I know you will not, you have too much praised Osmond for relieving me from rape, yourself now to perform it; tho you now seem cruel, yet do I hope you are just, for I have heard the world esteem you so.  Mel. 
The act will not be wholly mine; your not to be-resisted beauty first made a rape on me, enforcing me to love you; that love made me desire to enjoy the happiness of your embraces, which you denying reason steps into right my wronged affection, and bids me force you, assuring me, that nature who does nought in vain, had never taken such pains in framing you so sweet and lovely, but that she meant some one or other should enjoy that sweetness; and shall I so far yield to any others merit, or wrong my fortune which bestowed you on me, as not to think I am the happy man appointed by wise nature to enjoy you; the Gods cannot in justice, after so great victories, appoint Melcoshus the office of a slave to be the keeper of such dainty fruit for any other man, and he himself He Offers violence. not taste it; no I have lost too many hours of pleasure, and will no longer suffer myself to be tormented more than Tantalus, for he was forced to fast, but foolishly I starve having my hands at liberty, and in my power that which will satisfy beyond expression. ( aside.)  Des. 
Oh Sir, consider ere you go about a deed of so much baseness, how will this rank amongst your noble acts to be a murderer, for do not think I will out live my fame; for your own sake be wise then, if you love me, and do not rob yourself of the content you may hereafter find, if you take noble ways and make my heart yours, than you may have a lasting pleasure Aside. now the deed once done will bring repentance ever.  Mel. 
Who would not threaten rape to hear such pretty arguments against it. No Despina I have no faculty which is not more obedient to thy will then to my own, each threatening word I uttered was to myself a torment: dry those bright eyes that never shall have use of tears again, if not for their own cruelty against Melchoshus; consider but my power, and thy own beauty which would inflame old age, and from thy justice my temperance must needs find some reward.  Des. 
If thus you woo me, I dare not say but time and woman's weakness may make me love you, and for your this day's temperance, this kiss be your reward.  Mel. 
I am transported, force can bring no such pleasure, kiss me again and by our Prophet, it shall seal, your honour's freedom by an oath: my blood is fired, one such kiss more would make me break that promise, for making which this kiss was given me.  Des. 
Oh Sir.  Mel. 
But fear not, base passion shall not overthrow my wise and nobler resolutions, for since I love you as you are altogether excellent, I must enjoy Despina, not Despina's person only that's not half yourself; I will not look on you, your eyes tho chaste may more increase my lust, which my minds pure love makes me now know to be a crime;  

And hold our Prophet Mahomet unjust,  
That made no laws against a Prince's lust.   Exeunt. Enter Orcanes and Hosa. Orc. 
Hosa: is Callibeas gone to court?  Hos. 
He is my Lord.  Orc. 
Is there no means thinkst thou to see his wife?  Hos. 
It is impossible, his jealousy makes him set spies in every corner.  Orc. 
I see thou art not read in tricks of love, I have made use of all that art and nature hath bestowed upon me; youth and beauty what woman can resist? or were these wanting, yet a Prince's name is a powerful advocate, I never yet laid siege to any female Fort, but either by assault or policy I found a way to conquest yet am I careful of their honours I enjoy, and so dissemble my affection, that each Lady thinks I only am her servant; would my youth and beauty ever last, I would not wish to change the life I lead now, to enjoy the kingdom; although my father possess the greatest beauty of the world, yet is it not by stealth: security takes from the pleasure 'tis dull so to enjoy a beauty.  Hos. 
You'll find your present task full of difficulty if you delight in that, I do not think you'll ever see her more, Callibeus having taken notice of your love.  Orc. 
He sees, but will not say he sees, being my father's slave, he dares not find the least fault: me thinks she should corrupt some Eunuch that attends her, or from her window drop a letter to express the love I am sure she bears me.  Hosa. 
How are you sure she loves you?  Orc. 
Sure she loves me, as sure as if she had told me so, nay, surer; her eyes spoke plainly, which I will trust in women more than their tongue: but I am so experienced, I cannot well miss in either.  Enter Eunuch. Eun. 
My Lady doth entreat your highness, not to walk before her window for, if my Lord return, and see you, he'll be with her offended.  Orc. 
Return, and tell your Lady, I shall be ready to obey any command of hers, though to my own torment.  Eun. 
I shall.  Hos. 
Sir, it appears, she loves you Callibeus above drops a Letter. not by this, else she would take delight to look on you.  Orc. 
This letter lay not here, last turn we made; before I open it, to let thee see, I am the Master of my Art, though here's no superscription, I now tell you, this Letter is to me, and from Ozaca, full of affection too.  Hos. 
I shall another time believe you, if't be; retire yourself here out of sight, and read it.  Orc. 
The Sun, though clouded by jealousy, The Letter. will shine again, not only to warm, but inflame, if it have power, those who seem to take comfort in his beams. If a reciprocal fire be kindled express it not in words— Here's wit, Hosa, besides beauty. No fair Ozaca, not in word, but thus I do express my zeal. Hosa, she's at the window, but dares not open it, for the Eunuch. I have a plot, which thou must needs assist me in, and then she's mine, spite of her husband's jealousy.  Enter Callibeus, and Eunuch. Call. 
How in silence he wooed her, and thanks was given for her Letter, as he thought. Was't not a good device in me, to be assured of his intentions; he shall break through forty doors, ere he plant here. Now to Ozaca, which I removed into another Chamber, whilst I supplied her place. Exeunt.  Enter Osmond with a Letter. Osm. 
It was a happy fate, that brought the Emperor so to cross my yielding; how could I have resisted such a motion, coming from her that I adore. Let me consider, become a Christian, fly, and marry me: What a temptation's this? I gave this Beauty to Melcoshus, and shall I childishly recall my gift, nay, basely steal the jewel of his life, in whom the kingdom's weal consists? 'twere unexampled treason. Hence thou enticing charm, whose witchcraft almost does enforce me, to forsake my faith and virtue. Stay, become a Christian, that's but to be as she is; and can the heavens be cruel to such, such, sweetness? shall not their providence preserve what they have framed so excellent, and me, for serving her? Say I forsake our Prophet, and trust upon that Power which she adores, than must I basely fly, forsake Melcoshus my dread Lord; and what can recompense that loss, or seem a plausible excuse for such a falsehood? Oh yes, to marry fair Despina, which she offers, is to be happy in so high a nature, that it would stop the mouth of churlish censure; all would excuse a fault, that brought so great contentment to the guilty, as her embraces must be.  Enter Melcoshus. Mel. 
Osmond, thou hast undone me in thy rich gift.  Os. 
How, Sir?  Mel. 
She does, and may, so justly glory in her own purity, that she disdains to mix in love with me; and yet, till her denial taught me to know I was defective, my very thoughts, much more desires, did never meet a check: Whose wife or daughter that I should covet, would not the husband or glad father bring me? or, if their honour mastered their love or duty, what could resist my power?  Osm. 
Nought, but such another excellent creature as Despina, she can oppose your will against your power, and make, both wait her pleasure.  Mel. 
Oh Osmond! could she be equaled, my love and admiration would grow less; but as it is, I languish in desire, and must do ever: Should I use force, my royal word were broke to her, whose good opinion I strive more to gain, than all the world's; and by those Christian virtues that she proposes too, Faith and Temperance.  Osm. 
Sir, since you find so much affliction, would I had never presented her.  Mel. 
Osmond, thou art a traitor in thy wish, and nothing could preserve thee from my rage, but that thou didst what now thou wished thou hadst not; should my beloved son Orcanes but say, he wished, that I had never seen Despina, by Mahomet, his life were forfeit: For, though I for the present find some torment in her denials, yet, by one smile, she may advance me to a happiness, above all earthly Monarchs; what will her kisses do then, I mean, when she shall give them freely, uncompelled, transport me from myself, the mere imagination does almost perform it; and see, amazement leave me, that I may express some part of the content I feel, in viewing this dear object, thus to approach me, smiling, nay, as if she meant to make me happy, by commanding something.  Enter Despina. Des. 
I am indeed a suitor, but cannot hope I shall prevail yet, piety commands me to make trial, since 'tis for some of my religion, and your enemies.  Mel. 
Though they had plotted against my life, I freely pardon them; you cannot ask me that I will not grant you; and in your servant, all that's mortal shall obey you; nay, Mahomet himself shall cease to be adored, if he be not assistant to your wishes.  Des. 
I have no further suit, only let Osmond see performed, what I shall now direct him.  Mel. 
On thy allegiance, Osmond, that, and all she shall command thee else: with greater care, and more devotion, I should perform it then ere I offered yet at Mecha.  Des. 
The Emperor speaks, dear Osmond, as if he knew what I intend to command you.  Osm. 
Divinest Lady, what's the occasion, wherein your trembling vassal may express his care and duty.  Enter Haly. Des. 
Dear Osmond, look not pale, nor shake so, but mark those few words, which this short time will suffer me to speak. I so much love thee, that again I offer to fly, now when opportunity presents itself: For, my suit unto Melcoshus, which you must see performed, is, to set free a Christian Merchant, with his ship and men, with whom, we being both disguised, may 'scape away; or should we be discovered, to die would not much grieve me. Your answer in a word.  Osm. 
Could paradise be gained by crooked paths, I would not tread them. I grant, to be your husband, were to enjoy a heaven upon earth; for the danger in attaining that, would but add unto the happiness. I should a thousand times repent me of my gift, did not he prize you to your value, if it be possible; but since he does, and only can continue you in your full lustre, making you shine a wonder to the world, far be it from the thought of Osmond, to yield so far to passion, as to destroy his Master's happiness, and his own faith. For you, if you shall but in thought continue this design, the Gods will punish you, for offering to oppose their sixt decrees, since 'tis apparent by your equal merits, you only were appointed for Melcoshus, and he for you.  Desp. 
Do you refuse me then?  Mel. 
Ha 〈…〉 dares Osmond expect to live, after refusing what she shall command.  Osm. 
I do not wish it, Sir.  Desp. 
My passion made me to forget, Sir. Osmond is the noblest of your servants, and ready to obey me.  Mel. 
To show the power you have o'er me, I freely pardon him, nor shall your commendations light in vain on any much less on Osmond; I here create thee basha of Aleppo.  Osm. 
Sir, you will but in this, forestall my future services, and rob me of desert to climb by a way I rather should have wished to tread. But when I do consider, Madam, 'tis your praise, no other woman's, that advances me, it shows, my merit was not small, since I attained your good opinion, which fully satisfies.  Desp. 
'Tis nobly said of Osmond; yet, since his denial, I look on him with other eyes. Melcoshus greatness, and his love exceeding that, makes some impression in me. [ flourish.]  Mel. 
Say thou bright angel is there aught wherein Melcoshus may express his love.  Desp. 
Your humble vassails too much honoured, who rather does deserve your frown for her presumption. [ Masque.]  Mel. 
There are some sports, which you perchance have heretofore deigned to behold. Exeunt.  Enter Haly, two captains.( flourish.) Hal. 
You see the Emperor throws by all care of Subjects, addicting himself wholly to pleasure; days, weeks, and months he spends with Despina, that painted sorceress; and when he hears of any revolted Province, or of preparing enemies, he asks, how fair Despina slept that night, affirming, that in her alone, was loss or victory. Revolt of subjects! I oft have heard him wish, that all his subjects love were turned to hate, so that his goddess would but favour him: Was't not a Kingly wish?  1. Cap. 
'Tis strange, our Emperor should thus dote upon a captive, a Christian too.  Hal. 
Aye, fellow soldiers; but consider to what a pass we now are grown, to be thus governed; we, who have power to make the world ours, all Kings obey us, thus to be led to ruin, nay, to a ruin that we see apparent: I dare not say, but I could wish, that we did not quite forget the power of soldiers. We had power, when 'twas to raise Melcoshus for his virtues.  Cap. 
'Tis true, his virtues made him Emperor( rather his seeming virtues, more they were not) and they being counterfeit, if we be firm to him that's fallen into vice and imbecility, we forsake virtue and our own strength: Some in the Camp equal his former worth, then far outgo his present.  Enter Messenger. Mess. 
Odmer, and some other of the Captains, will straight be here.  Hal. 
'Tis well, I know you are friends to those that love the soldier; for my part, I will not promise much, yet, if the gods shall breed a change, and think me worthy of advancement, virtue shall steer me wholly.  1. Cap. 
We know it shall, most noble Haly; and when the time grows ripe, expect our utmost aid.  2. Cap. 
we'll not be found here, lest Odmer should suspect our friendship to you; we'll rather seem to come by accident, hearing of his being here. Exeunt Cap.  Hal. 
You shall do well: By seeming virtuous, I have the faith corrupted of many others in the Army; but these, though they perceive that I aspire, yet for their own ends, they'll assist my plots, pretending, as if A Table. we believed each other virtuous. Love to our Country moves us; yes, as much as it does the Crocodile, that laments that creature, which she means to make her prey. How e'er, Melcoshus is careful of the soldiers good, and most ambitious of their love. I have so wrought upon them by flattery, that he not once suspects, how they distaste his easy pleasant life, their bane; nor shall he know't, until the error ruin him, in all opinion, and make me powerful. I will observe and flatter him in smallest things, all must run smooth and even; he shall not see, at least not hear, a discontented man, yet underhand, by injuries, I'll make the greatest so; then by my instruments so work them, that they shall fix their eyes on me as their sole remedy, being the only man that loves his Country. True, the mask of virtue I put on, must be worn cunningly indeed. Odmer, that Fox too I must ruin, by his own honesty and faith unto his Prince; I cannot be secure of any plot whilst he hath breath; and here he comes.  Enter Odmer and Captains. Odmer. 
According to your desire I am come and pray Mahomet our present meeting may produce some happy issue for the good of our sovereign.  Ha. 
Amen, good Odmer, sit, sit, most noble friends, you the Pillars of the Empire, upon which the huge Colossus of our Princes same was raised: here is not at this Table( I to my comfort speak it to be so honoured) a man that does not merit to lead himself an Army, I being exempted. What victory did our Melchoshus get, that some brave arm here did not act wonders, I dare not say equal to what he did? yet to continue doing bravely still, is fair for soldiers: for Kings sometimes slack in their worth. But Ours you'll say is gracious, careful of the State and soldiers.  Od. 
I know not what they'll say, but I must say so, and withal add if you think not so too, you are a flatterer: for have not I heard Haly with fair words smooth o'er the errors of the King small in themselves at first, but by your conformation still continued not amended, as not thought wrongful actions.  Ha. 
I grant good Odmer when I have seen the Emperor enraged not to be contradicted but with danger, I have applied myself to serve his humour for the present, hoping my reason afterwards might better overthrow his error, when it should be forsaken by his passion, nor failed I of't; but were it not madness in any that should tell him, that this his dotage on Despina makes him neglect his office? how all the soldiers that have any spirit or sense of their vast wrongs talk of electing them another Emperor who better shall distinguish betwixt their honoured scars, and upstart Ignorants, who ne'er shed drop of enemy's blood, or had their own spilt to advance his glory? would you have me tell him this, though all yet know, this is truth.  Od. 
Though I know this is false, how e'er opinion sway the envious and ignorant; yet did you think it true; were you true subjects you would tell it him: but he that fears his loss of life more than his loss of faith and honour, thinks no reward can equal such a hazard.  2. Cap. 
Then Odmer, yo'u would seem as if your faith and love so far transport you, 'bove your reason that you durst tell the Emperor this.  Ha. 
No Odmer, 'twere' Folly.  Od. 
Haly, to you it may appear so; but may Odmer be as cold in duty as you, and find what it deserves, some heavy punishment: if he do not make known e'er long, unto his sovereign how he daily loses his soldier's love, for that I grant is truth though undeserved from him; for he hath still desired to give them all their dues, nay been more liberal than his Ancestors how e'er false servants and corrupted ministers have deceived his trust: the sweetest and most plenteous springs passing through noisome and straight passages may lose their comfortable qualities; even you my Lord( I must be plain) have wrought yourself to such a power by the advantage of your birth and his employing you that all depend on you more than on him: all that you think will please the soldiers you make your Act, the Emperor by you induced to it, and by you performed; but what may give them cause of murmur or discontent, that you give out that you persuade him from: thus do you rob him of his greatest wealth the soldier's love, and in the stead of it procure their hatred for him, which justly you deserve. But would that tyrant, Love, release him, that he might show himself again in arms, and look about him, he soon would know, that Haly his most trusted counsellor hath abused his trust, whilst he hath been fast lulled asleep with pleasure.  Ha. 
Zealous Odmer, what you have spoke might seem an injury not to be borne, to those that did not know us both: who would think I could suffer in my own house my loyalty thus to be called in question nay condemned? for you have spoke no less than what might brand me for a traitor. But know good Odmer your zeal thrice heated by your envy, to see me greater than yourself not only in my place but in the soldier's love, can no way sindg my reputation, or make my faith mistrusted by my Prince; and since I know you cannot hurt, my own power guarding me, but most that innocence which I have ever borne as the best shield against all slanders; I am so far from being angry, that I profess I love you, and will advise you for your honour's sake, which else might suffer since you are honest Odmer To tell the Emperor all things are amiss; the greatest danger that can arise to you, he being of a gentle nature, will be but strangling; or, may be, for the kind office you shall take upon you to be his tutor,( for it was never known that any yet counselled him unasked) his falchion may be employed that he may view your brains who would be wiser than your Lord.  1. Cap. 
Faith Odmer, tell him: my Lord counsels well.  Ha. 
First let him know( my faults) if you intend I should be punished; you'll have no time when you have told him( his.)  Os. 
Haly, you speak to me in scorn; but I perchance shall do that which would fright thee even to death only to think on't.  Ha. 
Odmer, your blood is stired and you are angry.  Os. 
If thou hadst given me any real cause, this place, nor these, should not protect thee; but since I know thy plotting brain to be thy only weapon, thou canst not move me, and so I leave you. Exit.  2. Cap. 
My Lord, will you endure this?  Ha. 
Let him alone, the honest fool is running to his ruin.  1. Cap. 
As how, what danger?  Hal. 
Danger enough, Melcoshus frown, for he'll inform him what he hath promised.  1. Cap. 
By Mahomet, he dares not.  Ha. 
He will, I know his humour best, or if you please to call it simple honesty, you may, which I have wrought upon by opposing; so shall his faith serve my aspiring ends.  
Odmer once sacrificed for truth, who'll be Melcoshus' friends? Exeunt.  Enter Orcanes and Callibeus. Or. 
'Tis strange, my Father should so dote. I thought in time, the force of his affection would have abated; but on the contrary, his love increases, never was such a change. What poor things are we, when our lust hath once overthrown our reason! that any man of spirit should so far yield to passion, as to become his captives captive! and all this coil only for obtaining that, which in the enjoying does not yield a minute's pleasure: How happy am I, that have no such desires.  Enter Hosa. Cal. 
Oh hypocrite!  Orc. 
Have you done what I bade you?  Hos. 
Yes, you shall see the effects on't immediately.  Orc. 
The truth is; our laws gives us too great a liberty that way; how much better were it, might every man only enjoy one woman? for, lust doth both corrupt the bodies and the souls of men.  Cal. 
What means this seeming sanctity? it does indeed my Lord, it is a most ugly vice, though to the great ones tolerated.  Orc. 
I do protest, my Father's error doth so much lessen him from what he was, that I'll forswear the very company of women; bewitching sirens, that confounds our judgments.  
Fire, fire, fire. [ within.]  Cal. 
What noise is that, ha, fire!  Enter Orc. Hosa. Orc. 
My Lord, I'll to the Court this morning. Finis Actus secundi. Exeunt omnes.   

Actus tertius.  Enter Orcanes and Ozaca. Oz. 
SIr, I beseech you think not meanly of me; for having won me thus, thus without parley, I freely must confess, the force you used did not displease me, whatsoever I seemed; for, I did something love you, before mine eyes were blessed with viewing your perfections; yet, modesty or fear to be contemned, would have for ever closed my lips.  Orc. 
Why, fair Ozaca, did not you by a Letter dropped from your window one day make me know my happiness, in your requital of affection, in the same phrase, to that I spoke at first in, to let you know, I was your servant, though your husband then were present, I doubting a second opportunity.  Oz. 
Alas, my Lord, I did not know your meaning, if you spoke to that effect; but it may be, my husband prompted by a just fear, did understand you; for you are made up of sweetness, that might tempt an angel.  Orc. 
My behaviour gave him no cause of suspicion sure.  Oz. 
His jealousy proceeding from his excess of love to me, made him believe, it seems, I was an object worthy of your eye, when indeed the god of love pitying my silent languishing, did rather wound you, to show his power, than that my beauty could command affection from one, so far in all respects above me: And if you did receive any Letter to that effect, he writ it as from me, none else durst have presumed.  Orc. 
'Tis certain, and he himself hath been the unhappy happy instrument, to make me now enjoy the miracle of nature; for, had I not been so encouraged by that Letter, I should not have thus ventured on this rash attempt, of firing the house.  Oz. 
Sweet Prince, I fear some jealous pang may take my husband, and he return before the fire be quenched, and find you; at least the Eunuch may.  Orc. 
Shall I then so soon leave you?  Oz. 
Oh yes, you must; yet do not, except you every day could set a Garden-house on fire; for, without some such extraordinary means, we hardly shall again enjoy each other's company, which how sweet it is to me, let this kiss witness, being more than ever yet I offered to my husband.  Orc. 
Let us not part, what danger can be equal to this happiness? By Mahomet, I ne'er till now did find content with any woman. Why should a subject be thus blessed. Let this make all my other conquests be forgotten, over other women; for I am now what I have often seemed, but never was in earnest, in Love, nay taken after the enjoying. knock within  Oz. 
Oh me, we are undone, one knocks, I fear my husband's Confusion on them.  Cal. 
Ho Ozaca, Ho Ozaca.  Oz. 
'Tis he: what will become of me?  Orc. 
Spare those tears, or rather let them fall to save your honour, by seeming, as if I had used violence. To say, that I at all have not injured you, were to no purpose, he'll ne'er believe it: Put yourself in such a posture, as may beget belief. My birth shall save me from all danger; or should I perish, so I save your honour, it matters not.  Enter Callibeus. Cal. 
What, asleep Ozaca, and such a fire. I'll use my private key. The Prince! now, all the furies, had the house been burnt, ay, all the house, nay, all that's in't, myself, I had been far less miserable. For ever let all comfort cease, Ozaca is a strumpet, I am dishonoured, the boys will hoot at me as I pass the street. Sensibly I feel myself transformed from man to beast.  Orc. 
Thou'rt too much honoured slave: that I should take so much pains, and only once enjoy that, which thou Mayst possess at ease, and often! For her, she is so far from being a strumpet, that she's chaster in thought than thou couldst wish her, how e'er her person suffered violence. Behold an object, if any thing could move me to repent so soon of that, wherein I lately took such pleasure, those lovely cheeks bathed in her tears, my friends it seems, who by their quantity, would wash from off her face those bloody stains, the witnesses of my rude act.  Oz. 
Hence from me, Serpent.  Cal. 
Oh, leave my house, lest I forget you are Melcoshus son: but for thee, strumpet.  Orc. 
Build not on my ill laid foundation, make not the rape I have committed, the cause of any future injuries to her, for so you shall on me lay greater weights of sin, which I'll revenge on thee. And Lady, though I know I do appear to you a devil, nay worse; yet, when you shall consider your own beauty, you'll excuse me something.— What, spit at me spits at him. being your Prince; nay, than I know my crime was heinous; your eyes too, that may give life to others, like to the Basilisks, do strike me dead. Remember Callibeus. Exit.  Cal. 
Abused and threatened! I am too tame, I'll after him; rather, revenge me on this whore that did allure him.  Oz. 
Do, you cannot add unto my misery: I am already made unworthy of your bed, dishonoured, ravished; and you that should revenge the wrong, are cold in taking vengeance, though in hot blood: You that could let him part, having a sword so near your hand, and such a cause to use it in, will shortly bring me to him, nay, be assistant, whilst he ravished me again; but you would rather use it against me than him: if so, behold this breast, sometime the subject of your praise; employ it then, and take away the cause of your dishonour; No? give it me she offers to pull out his sword. then, and you shall see—  Cal. 
Hold▪ what wouldst thou do?  Oz. 
Free myself from misery, since you refuse to do it.  Cal. 
Ozaca, I confess I was too cold in my revenge; indeed I doubted, whether thou hadst yielded willingly or not; but now that I do know thy virtue, and am myself collected by my reason, I find indeed, there was no cause of jealousy in thee at all, how e'er my extreme love made me suspicious: I shall forgive the offence, I hope, nay, 'twas none, since 'twas against thy will; and after some small time, receive thee to my bed: For my revenge I have a way, that without blood I'll find my satisfaction.  Oz. 
For that, Sir, as you please; but never will I come within your bed, I am not worthy: as a soiled garment, throw me by, seeing another man hath used me.  Cal, 
Not for the world, my Ozaca, thou art still worthy.  Oz. 
Too worthy, since Orcanes loves, to be enjoyed by thee. [ Aside.] Exeunt.  Enter Melcoshus and Osmond. Mel. 
Oh my dear Osmond, grant me but one request.  Osm. 
you may command, Sir.  Mel. 
Become my partner in the Empire, for thou hast given me more than the whole, in my most kind Despina: for she's no longer cruel, I have enjoyed her freely, by her own consent, which does express more happiness, than all the tongues of men can utter.  Osm. 
You owe me nought for this. When I presented her, than she was coy and cruel; if by your noble usage you have won her to crown your wishes, the debt was due unto your sufferings, and you now are paid, which I rejoice in.  Mel. 
The joy, my Osmond, is so great, that if I do not by communicating delay it something, it will be dangerous.  Osm. 
Sir, I believe there is none living, that sooner could conceive your happiness than I, since none doth more admire and reverence Despina· For, were a love from me to her as warrantable, as 'tis from me to you, grounded on virtue, I sure should equal, if not exceed you in affection; nay, could she love again, be happier: for all the love that she can render you, is to your merits and your fortunes due; But if she that's above me shall descend, my happiness beyond yours must extend. This, Sir, I speak only, to let you know, I see the way, which the gods by chance had left open, to my happiness in Despina; but knowing that it was by chance, and that they did not intend to any subject such a beauty, I forbore, nay thought myself most happy in that they chose me for their instrument to salve the error by presenting you with what they had provided for you, and which it seems they meant to crown your conquests with.  Enter Despina, Haly, Captains. Mel. 
Osmond, in all thy words and actions thou are perfect: next her that now appears, I do esteem thee, for if there be one corner in my heart, that is not filled with her, thou dost possess it, nay thou art mingled with each loving thought of her. Oh my Despina, how glorious thou appearest! the sun is but a cold and obscure lamp compared with thy two heavenly eyes, from whose sparkling fires all that behold except myself must perish, but I by their more gentle influence thou a temperate pleasant air, or should I be consumed with others, yet 'tis permitted me to kiss these lips which might restore me but should this more inflame me, which is possible, yet would those eyes produce such pearly drops for their own cruelty in having so consumed their faithfullest adorer, that it would quench even their own fire, and so preserve me still the happiest of men.  Des. 
May I prove worthy of your favours, and in my future love and service make satisfaction for the time of ignorance, and disobedience that's past; my present happiness, best makes me see my error.  Mel. 
No more, lest I do surfeit: had you killed my father, nay revild our Prophet the highest crime, this were too much.  Haly. 
Our Prophet should have appeared unjust, if he had made Melcoshus so far in worth above all other men, & not rewarded that unequalled merit: which what could so well do as this rare creature? The Prince Orcanes.  Enter Orcanes. Mel. 
Now my son Orcanes, are all things ready for our sports?  Orc. 
Sir, all attend you.  Mel. 
Orcanes, tell me hadst thou a beauty like to this, wouldst thou go hunt and leave her tho but for an hour, could all variety of pleasures else be joined, and in one minute's time their quintessential part enjoyed, I would not lose her company that minute: nor wouldst thou, hadst thou once tasted my delights; but as it is, hunt, my Orcanes, and in that enjoy the greatest delight of mortals: but for me, I have pleasure in my divine Despina, far above sense, tho sense convey it to my understanding, and am immortalized by my vast joys? Exeunt.  Haly. 
Was ever such dotage, is this a man to govern us? no, fellow soldiers, no.  1 Cap. 
He must not long, if we be men, and have but sense to see our miseries in him, and what a happy people we should be under some other.  Haly. 
Farewell most trusty friends. Exit.  2. Cap. 
We shall rule the world, we that are soldiers.  1. Cap. 
Who can tell, Haly being advanced may grow as lazy.  2. Cap. 
Then down with him, and choose another.  1. Cap. 
Is that the friendship you bear him?  2. Cap. 
My profit and my pleasure are those with whom I only keep friendship, nor have you, on my knowledge, any other resolution; each man pursues his own desires, there's no such thing as faith left in the world but amongst our Mufti.  1. Cap. 
Are they there?  2. Cap. 
Yes, in their books, and now and then upon occasion we hear on't.  1. Cap. 
Do they no more? we speak of virtue too, and seem to show our love too't, our present designs are to be sheltered under a pretence of love to our country.  2. Cap. 
And so 'tis, man: come near, examine these things. Haly hath power and will advance us with himself, let that satisfy: The Emperor and Callibeus: stand close, we may perhaunce hear some thing that will avail us the Emperor trusts him much.  Enter Melcoshus and Callibeus. Mel. 
Now, Callibeus, what's the important cause that you thus press upon my privacies, have you received intelligence of any foreign enemy, or that our person here at home's in danger; say, if not so, you have presumed tho we esteem you much, to rob us of Despinaes' company a minute.  Cal. 
Dread Sir, your pardon then, I come for justice.  Mel. 
Justice Callibeus? to whom is it denied within our kingdom?  Cal. 
The person against whom I must complain, Sir, is exempted from all punishment, excepting, that which yourself shall lay upon him.  Mel. 
Name him.  Cal. 
The act, Sir, is so foul that I dare name him, it is your son Orcanes whom I accuse as a guilty person, I beseech you look on him, and do me justice; my wife by him is ravished, dishonoured: the laws of hospitality were of no other then only to perform his wickedness: oh Sir, consider that you lodged him in my house and if you punish not, you shall appear an accessary.  Mel. 
What proof of this?  Cal. 
Oh Sir, too much, I took him all most in the violent act; besides he glories in it too.  Mel. 
Degenerate bastard, for could a son of mine commit so base an act; had I used force, where had my joys in Despina been? but yet I must not seem as if did intend to punish, for the injurer is my son, the injured but my slave.  Cal. 
Oh justice, Sir.  Mel. 
Why Callibeus, art not thou my slave, and if my son have forced thy wife, is she not more my slave whom thou commandest; 'twas disobedience, either in her, or thee, that did not offer, what he was pleased to like: he too much honoured thee, and like a common guest fed of the same dish with thee; go, be gone, and hold thyself happy, that I do not inflict a punishment upon thee, both for the evil thou wished upon my son, and for thy present troubling. Exit.  Calli. 
You Gods! is this Melcoshus justice, for which he hath been so renowned? but his fond love hath ruined all his virtue: farewell all faith and duty which hitherto hath been by me inviolately kept.  1. Cap. 
Lose not this opportunity, he's discontented, let's strive to make him ours; my Lord, by accident we overheard your injuries, and grieve so much that we will assist you to redress them, you know we still have honoured you.  Calli. 
I know you are my friends, 'tis true that I am injured, past sufferance.  1. Cap. 
We will give you ease. Exeunt omnes  
Finis Actûs Tertü   

Actus. Quartus.  Enter Osmond. Osm. 
I Was too scrupulous, my duty did not bind: me to give that to another without the which I could not live myself; 'twas against reason & I was drunk with zeal, else I had never done it: I with the danger of my life did purchase her, and heaven did ratify, it seemed, the conquest, since they made, her love equally: she is not wanting in affection, yet, for aught I know, she now sent for me to tell me; although her person be the Emperors yet her heart is mine, nay both by stealth this, this corrupt flesh & blood would basely have me think, but virtue & honour which must rule my soul tells me these are ignoble thoughts, and ill befit the faith of Osmond, who always hath applied himself to virtue, how ever weak in his performances; nay something noble bids me arm myself so strongly in my virtue, that tho she should become a suitor, yet not to grant and, by our Prophet if my flesh against my faith rebel and she consent, He free my nobler soul, and send this trunk to hell— but all these fears are needles for so much goodness shines in her face that sure her heart is far from being empty rather a magazine from whose abundance all that do want, might be supplied could they be sensible of their poverty: According to your command, behold your slave.  Enter Despina. Des. 
Osmond how e'er the Emperor, in my command o'er him, makes all the empire subject to my will, yet if you kneel I must not be exempt: for well you know I love you.  Osm. 
I fear.  Des. 
Yet not so as heretofore, 'tis now a sisterly affection.  Osm. 
Thanks heaven.  Des. 
Which that I may witness more than in words accept this from me, not as they in themselves are rich, but as they are made so to you in being my gift; and let them tell you when you look on them, that there is nothing in Despinas power, her faith kept sacred to Melcoshus, whom now I in my soul adore, but that you may command as freely, as you might a sister that entirely loves you.  Osm. 
Virtue I see is ne'er without reward: how far I am exalted in this joy above what sin could have produced: your pardon, madam, though my thanks come slow, yet they are sure, I am overjoyed and want words to express myself, not in the riches of what you have given but in your protestation that you love me so, as my own soul desired.  Des. 
The Emperor knows I love you more than any, and is pleased it should be so, nor need you keep that distance that all others do, but freely visit me. I have a suit concerning the releasing some poor prisoners for which you from the Emperor must receive order, who strait will visit me.  Osm. 
I am too happy to continue long so. Exeunt.  Enter Melcoshus and Odmer. Od. 
Did not my love unto your sacred self make me prefer duty before danger, I should as others do in silence only mourn, the ruins of your state and murdered honour.  Mel. 
Ha.  Odm. 
But though I know that he which thus undermines you, hath power to give me death with studied torments, by turning that which loyalty makes me utter, to rash presumption in your acceptation, yet I'll become a zealous priest and sacrifice myself to show your danger; what though your passion will not let you read a faithful warning writ in my bloody entrails, and so you'll think the sacrificer mad, I from the Gods shall find a recompense; having discharged a faithful Subjects part to heaven and you, th'end of my creation.  Mel. 
Odmer, thou still hast found belief, nor have thy fears at any time been idle: name what thou meanest.  Od. 
First draw your sword, then promise you will hear me out ere you make use of it, for I shall move you highly; the sore I come to launch is too much festered to be cured with flattery.  Mel. 
'Tis strange, I promise thee, how? is my honour tainted, or my state in danger?  Od. 
I should not need to let you see the peril and dishonour that attends your too much Love( I dare not call it dotage) on Despina, if your own judgement were at liberty that better could inform you.  Mel. 
Traitor thou canst not speak eternally, than I shall be revenged for blasphemy and break no oath: Can love to her be dotage?  Od. 
Consider, Sir, what you have lost by loving her, oh could you see, but you are hood winked by your lust, from what a pitch of honour you are fallen, you would find that word too little to express it; consider what you were at taking of the city, to you accursed though gotten by a glorious victory; all neighbour Princes feared you so as does the lesser hawk the Kingly Eagle when he takes his flight no one durst keep the skies to search a prey, but glad to flag their fearful wings, and seek the obscure earth for safety: for your own subjects they so honoured you that daily they committed blasphemy, making you, equal to our Prophet in all that could immortalize a man; now each Prince seems to scorn you and your power, knowing your noble faculties are asleep nay murdered by your lustful passion. What need they care to do you injuries that cannot leave your Mistress to revenge them; your soldiers that from your examples had their valours steeled against their enemies only seeing you undermine yourself and them in your ill government, turn likewise traitors to themselves and you, swearing a captive shall not govern them, they must have one to lead them forth to war; nor is this only the common soldier's saying, apt after ease to mutiny, but even the greatest captains hold this resolution.  Mel. 
Peace, No more.  Odm. 
If not for shame yet for the dangers sake bethink yourself; in you the kingdom suffers; struggle a little but for liberty; our Prayers shall untwist your bands; and, once free, your virtues soon will shine again; so shall you make the world believe it was no fault of yours, rather the envy of the gods that kept you in obscurity so long; for had your virtues not been thus eclipsed, you might have darkened theirs: Now Sir if you mistrust the truth of what I have delivered, or that my zeal hath made me to deliver truth unreverently, behold my heart which may for both or either satisfy; and if you search each corner you shall find that envy moves me not, nor fear to lose my power by her engrossing all your favours: no my soul bears witness with me, your safety and the general good did only prompt my tongue, in what I uttered.  Mel. 
Odmer, thou hast presumed above that freedom that even dull Christians do allow their servants, but thou borne my slave thus presumptuously to enter into my greatest secrets, to rip up my faults before my face, and as it were by force pull from out my arms my dearest Despina, what canst thou hope for but death by some unheard of torments?  Od. 
Sir if you intend still to pursue your pleasure selling your honour and the kingdom's safety for a few wanton kisses, I can expect no less; but if the spirit of great Melchoshus, strangled by sloth and wantonness, again respire by a true servant's zealous conjurations making his body move to noble deeds such as may even out shine his bravest ancestors, than I may chance to die a gentler death, a nobler can I never. I rather would be sacrificed for truth and loyalty, then be rewarded for base flattery.  Mel. 
Because thou wert brought up with me a child, and many ways approved'st thyself faithful; I pardon thee this presumption, and ere long thou and those of thy opinion shall know that I am able to govern my passion, perhaps, to their amazement.  Exeunt Enter Orcanes, and Hosa, severally. Hosa. 
So soon returned from hunting Sir.  Orc. 
What comfort can it be for me to follow beasts, having such a beauty in pursuit, for know, my friend, that my affection is more violent than it was before I did enjoy her. In that I imitate my father who now dotes more upon Despina than ever. But, know you, what the bassa hath complained unto my father, that I have forced his wife; we so well did dissemble; but such an answer did my father give him, that thou shalt see he'll bring Ozaca to me, nay be content to hold the door, whilst I again enjoy her.  Hosa. 
But do you think my Lord he will endure it, will he not by some private means seek a revenge.  Orc. 
He dares not, he is too tame: but stood my Father as strictly on the point of justice, as heretofore, ere love had softened him, I should fear his frown, but feeling daily the force of beauty in Despina, he will look upon my act with favourable eyes.  Enter Messenger. Mes. 
My Lord the Emperor seeing you return desires your company.  Orc. 
I'll wait upon him, Hosa, this night I have contrived a way, if it be possible, at least to see Ozaca. Exeunt.  Enter Melchoshus. Mel. 
My valour, vigilance, and justice made me Commander over this numerous people, with when I have acquired an Empire, and made the neighbour world stand amazed fearing my fierce invasion; but by my slothful life I am become hated; nay worse, contemned by my own subjects, as thought unfit to govern, but since by the goodness of our blessed Prophet my eyes are opened, and I see my error, I'll tread those virtuous paths again that did advance me, and the first act that must incite to look with favourable eyes on my proceedings, shall be the justice I'll perform on my degenerate Son Orcanes. What though he were, next my Despina the comfort of my life, I can know no partiality to him, nor to myself, in prejudice of justice; yet it may falsely brand me with the name of cruel and unnatural. My Son Orcanes, I hear you have a Mistress, fair I confess and chaste most certainly: for you did gain her by a boisterous way.  Enter Orcanes. Orc. 
Sir it were in vain for me to deny it, since Callibeus hath informed you, Sir 'tis true her beauty did compel me.  Mel. 
It was impossible thou shouldst believe Ozaca to be more beautiful than Despina in my temperance, then although my cause of passion far outwent thine, behold how far thou art from being the son of my virtues, to show thy baseness I extol myself. I being a Monarch free from the check of any but our divinest Prophet, having a made within my power, a captive maid, whose only friend or aid was her own innocence, no husband to complain or seek redress of any, she being wholly mine, given to me for my pleasure too, yet all these motives could not so far prevail as once to make me offer brutish violence, though even from her refusals my desires increased: but thou whose base desires hath killed all thoughts of virtue or humanity, employedst that force lent thee for nobler ends against a silly woman: and when thou hadst enjoyed what couldst thou boast, but tasting of a fruit, wherewith her husband often had been cloyed?  Orc. 
Sir, as affection cannot be created where we list, it cannot be removed where it is form: having at first sight ta'en possession of the heart, I did yet, faintly I confess, check my fond passion, it being unlawful to love another's wife; but alas her eyes were much too powerful to be so resisted; besides inbred corruption in myself told me, it was nothing to enjoy her, were she free, and at her own disposing, but having such a watchful dragon to orelook her as her jealous husband, his care made me believe the treasure was more rich, so better worth the stealing.  Mel. 
It was to him indeed a treasure that possessed it lawfully, though being gained by thee, it makes thee poor, to the condition of a slave: his honour suffers through thy violence, nay bleeds until my justice makes thee bleed to cure it.  Orc. 
I hope you will not be so cruel for an offence like this, committed through the heat of youth, since you yourself even at these years add to Love's triumphs.  Mel. 
Degenerate bastard, canst thou hope that an excuse like this, will pass with me for currant, who still hath been a severe punisher of unjust acts? it seldom hath been known that such a wrong was e'er appeased but with the offender's blood, or else the partial judge within whose power it was to punish, he hath paid for't; or if they could escape the hands of men, yet sure the gods will find them out, and I that do intend to be a punisher even of myself, for my least follies, dare not suffer, lest I offend against heaven thy heinous crimes to pass unscourged; and therefore mark thy sentence.  Orc. 
O Sir, Remember who I am.  Mel. 
Whilst thou wast what thou oughtst to be thou needst not bid me to remember that thou wert my son, but since thou art become a stranger to that nobleness that should accompany thy birth, like a corrupted branch I'll cut thee from the stock, lest I for my injustice by the justice of the heavens should perish with thee, nor shall my subjects be a loser in it, one of more virtue shall succeed me, that will not ravish women.  Orc. 
Sir, I am miserable, and must implore your mercy; for in your eyes I read my death or something near it, oh speak then, your tongue cannot pronounce like cruelty.  Mel. 
I find I am a father, and if I hear him longer, pity will overthrow my justice, and therefore I pronounce.  Orc. 
Oh hold, what Sir, my death or banishment I have been all my life until this present hour your hopeful son, for so you oft have called me, your heir, and shall I now inherit nought but death or else a thousand deaths, in being banished from your presence: which of the two to wish, I know not.  Mel. 
Oh that I might lay by the office of a judge, or else put off the nature of a father: for I in this distraction suffer more than he can do in death; even injured Callibeus self would be content with a less punishment, and the severest powers of heaven will call me cruel in execution of what I intend, rather than partial, since he is my son.  Orc. 
Oh speak not Sir, if you intend my death; rather by signs make me know Melchoshus stamps with his foot. my doom, 'twill be less cruel  Mel. 
In this behold it then.  Enter Mutes. Orc. 
Nay then Ozaca, either thy honour or my life is forfeit, these tongueless men do yet pronounce my death certain as fate: I see my end, Sir, but what the passage to it is I know not.  Mel. 
A dark passage trust me thou must have, but longer much than thou expectest, thou shalt not die.  Orc. 
Not die, her honour's safe, prison or banishment I will endure.  Mel. 
These eyes the causes of thy ill, lest they again betray thee shall for ever lose their light.  Orc. 
Is that your mercy? rather take my life.  Mel. 
If thou hadst been a private man, thou shouldst have died, but being a Prince and my son, this is more just, and natural, however for the present thou think'st is greater cruelty, for thou shalt live by sorrow to appease our Prophet.  Orc. 
Oh Sir your mercy reaches to the highest point of cruelty, 'twere better not to be at all, than not have the comfort of the light: what can life profit me a Prince, if made uncapable of government?  Mel. 
Dispatch, it is decreed. They put out one eye.  Orc. 
Hold, hear me sir, I have endured enough to show, I prize Ozaca's honour, one eye is lost. Sir I have belied myself; for know, Ozaca was more willing to meet my wished embraces, than I to offer them.  Mel. 
Now I repent my pity, thou wretch made up of baseness wouldst thou to save that other wicked eye increase the villainies thou didst commit against Ozaca: thou only didst before defile her person, now thou dost murder her, and her husband, both alive but I in their behalf and justice pronounce thy death for shouldst thou live, thou wouldst infect the world with baseness yet unheard of: bear him from my sight and strangle him, lest as I am a Father, pity confound my Justice.  Orc. 
By Mahomet, Sir, father hear me.  Mel. 
Away with him, the fear of death would make him heap more perjuries upon his soul.  

A Prince that for the loss of sight dares lie.  
Deserves death here, hereafter infamy.   Exeunt. 
Finis Actûs quarti.   

Actus quintus.  Enter Haly, Odmer, Hosa, and Captains. Hal. 
ODmer, you that have all the favours of the time can surely tell, if you will honour us so much, for what great cause it is, that we, and all the Captains are commanded to assemble here.  Odm. 
Great Haly, who thinks all not done by him ill done, and who envies the smallest grace that any other shall receive, though their deserts perhaps may equal his, can even as well inform himself he thinks as Odmer can, and out of scorn does only ask the question, but know, my politician, that ere long you'll find some alteration that you dream not of. Oboes  Enter Melchoshus and Despina▪ Haly. 
Odmer, is this your change you talk of?  Odm. 
Why, Haly, in his eyes you may read something if you'll observe not usual, I have not seen him look like himself since he forsook Mars to become the slave of Venus.  Mel. 
I hear that there are some amongst you that dare take upon them to malign my pleasures, and tax me for my easy life, alleging that I have forgot the duty of the gods, paying all my devotions to this Saint; nay some have gone so far as to affirm, I have given o'er to be a King, making myself my captives slave, and so deserve no longer to bear Rule. Although I need not make Apologies( for none can call me to account but heaven) yet I'll so far descend from that high pitch of Majesty whereon I am seated, as in familiar terms to question with you, and by the honour of a King, which I have yet kept pure from stain, however some have by their devilish cunning striven to blot it, I'll give you liberty to answer, in what I shall ask you, with as much freedom as if you were all Kings, or I your fellow subject.  1. Cap. 
What can this mean?  Haly. 
I know not what will follow, but well I understand what's past, and will prevent him since he hath found me out, I shall be caught in mine own snare else.  Mel. 
Tell me and tell me truly, which of you that had a beauty like to this, but sometimes would to enjoy her company neglect our greatest business, view her well for I'll make no description; only let me advise you fix not your eyes at first upon her eyes if it be possible, lest their brightness should strike you blind before you had observed her other beauties, and when you have beheld her outward form, know that her mind as far exceeds that, as the soul is more worthy than the body, which does indeed admit of no comparison.  Haly. 
She is more excellent than can be spoke, and all that should but tax you, if you should even adore her, deserve death for their gross ignorance.  1. Cap. 
Haly hath spoke what all confess, and we have too unjustly murmured at your pleasures.  2 Cap. 
No man could go abroad to War, that might enjoy such happiness in peace.  Haly. 
Who would not for her sake neglect even heaven itself?  Mel. 
Unto her excellence add the consideration of the difficulty I had in obtaining her, which ties man's nature faster to the object.  1 Cap. 
We all acknowledge that your joys are infinite in her, and that it lies not in the power of man to quit such happiness.  Mel. 
To make you know the difference then 'twixt you and me, and that I value the good of you my subjects and my honour far above fading pleasures, be this my witness, thus cut I from myself such a content, that Mortals ne'er enjoyed.  Des. 
Oh me, my fault lay in my blood, let that expiate my sin against heaven, mercy, mercy.  Om. 
Oh cruelty.  Od. 
An act noble above example yet it moves my pity, this was no end of mine, heaven knows.  Mel. 
Now by this act judge whether your Emperor be able to govern his passions or no, when they oppose themselves against his honour, and that you may know that pleasure hath not changed my nature, prepare for war, and what the neighbour Princes whilst we slept by stealth obtained.  
By force which interest back shall be regained.  
See the body nobly intumbed, I dare not view it  ( Exit) Od. 
Now Haly was not this unlooked for? Exit  Haly. 
Yes Odmer, on the first opportunity we are lost else. Exit  1 Cap. 
It must be so, this act will gain the people.  2 Cap. 
It must be so.  Enter Osmond. Osm. 
What meant the Emperor to send me from this meeting on such a sleeuless errand: ha what bloody object is this, I hope I dream, if not, may I be blind for ever, 'tis she: which of the gods fearing to be transplanted by her greater excellence hath done this? no mortal man durst, or could have the heart to execute such mischief: lay down the sacred load and let me know the bloody villain; art thou gone? say whose hand was it, that let out her pure soul at these grim wounds, and in the bloody act parted more excellence, then ere shall meet again.  1. Sol. 
One that dares justify it.  Osm. 
Villain thou liest he dares not, though thou and all thy generation should assist him who wast?  1. Sol. 
I am a soldier, take your lie again, for know it was Melcoshus.  Osm. 
Slave, dost thou mock my griefs?  2. Sol. 
Hold, noble Osmond, and know we manifest our love unto your virtues in forbearing to cut you all in pieces for daring to offer this violence: for by the honour of soldiers he tells you truth, the Emperor with his own hands here performed it, before all chief commanders with an intent I think to get again the soldiers love, which he had lost by her.  Os. 
I do confess my rashness, let my cause of rage excuse it: the Emperor do it, say you? it is impossible▪ now, by Mahomet, you are all traitors, and by some bloody statesmen are suborned to do this wickedness, and being found to save your guilty selves from justice, you lay it on the Emperor, you might as well make me believe that he had pulled his eyes out, or his heart, for she was far more dear, and therefore He defer revenge no longer.  Enter a captain. 2. Sold. 
Wound him, not only defend yourselves, he's mad with passion.  Cap. 
Hold noble friend, what means this?  Osm. 
These villains here have killed the Emperor's Mistress and would escape by laying it on him; when he, when he shall know it once, will wish no longer life.  Capt. 
Pacify your rage and hear me by Mahomet, what you have heard is truth, and never was there act gained more applause amongst the old soldiers, whose loss of blood hath quite extinguished the desire of women: but for my part me thought, though it be brave in the consideration▪ yet it was a horrid spectacle to see.  Osm. 
Is't even so? then had he ta'en a surfeit by being too happy?  Capt. 
No sure he loved her, when he killed her.  Osm. 
Shall I die with thee, my dear sister, for so it was thy will I should esteem thee: oh look upon this face and tell me, if there remained the least spark of humanity in him, that could but once have said, that she should thus be murdered; what was he than that could himself perform it! horrid, horrid deed: she in whose arms he slept the night before, and had no doubt more joys than tongues can utter: but if there be those Gods, which punish villainies, he may hereafter pay for't.  Capt. 
Osmond, this ill becomes your duty, which hitherto hath led the way even to the forwardest in zeal.  Osm. 
Why friend, I speak not of Melcoshus, he could not do it, some fury entered him.  Capt. 
Sir I love you: so well, that I dare not stay to hear you: bear off the body. Exit.  Osm. 
Oh stay, good soldiers, let me take my last leave: what shall I say, she cannot answer, it may be her fair Soul hovers about to see how they will use her dear Companion: if so, oh let it hear my vow by Mahomet and all the powers of heaven I swear with speed to be revenged upon thy cruel murderer, all his brave former acts are by thy innocent blood washed from my remembrance: for his love to me and payment of my duty they in it are cancelld, I was not more his slave than he was thine; confirmed with many thousand oaths, and most unjustly he hath not only broke those bands, but with thy dear blood died his villainy in grain, so that they cannot change their horrid colour in my memory, till I take equal vengeance, but I must needs come short both that I am by his example taught, and that I shall but kill a murderer when thou diedst innocent.  1. Sol. 
We in this stay, hazard our lives.  Osm. 
I have done, now let me after death do that which love and duty to Melcoshus, whilst she lived, would never suffer me: these pale cold lips have yet the power to make me burn in revenge, and these dear eyes sometimes the Master piece of nature can yet command me to extinguish their extinguisher. Now soldiers take her hence, and I will bear you company to see her buried, the passion I have showed, you may excuse, since all know I did first present her to Melcoshus; for which of you, that had but given a horse or dog, excellent in their kind, and seeing it at first as it deserved loved and cherished by him that did receive it, and after thus used without a cause, but would grieve something; deal freely, would it not move you, ha, if so, then think what I now suffer, who heaven knows did love this Lady, as my sister.  2. Sol. 
Sir we grieve with you, and wish the Emperor had not been so cruel.  Osm. 
Thanks soldiers, but where wishes fail, we must apply our reason to ease our grief.  

My ease alone consists in shedding his heart blood.  
That gained, and then destroyed, earth's chiefest good.   Exeunt. Enter Ozaca. Oza. 
Shall I rejoice, or shall I grieve my present fortune? rejoice most certainly, though all difficulty and danger attend my love; for my Orcanes is a Prince so excellent in all, that though I ne'er again enjoy him, yet am 〈◊〉 happy: but his affection sure which seemed to equal mine will make him study some way how we again may meet, but soft here comes my husband with a joyful Countenance.  Enter Callibeus. Calli. 
My dear Ozaca, I bring ease to thy vexed soul, I had been here long since, but that the Emperor's express command upon affairs with held me, and far too happy was the news for any other but myself to bring: kneel down with me and pray the Gods to prosper long Melcoshus.  Oza. 
Why Sir, what's the occasion? speak I pray you.  Calli. 
I knew his justice could not slack what ere he emd.  Oza. 
What justice? speak, oh my fears!  Calli. 
The Prince.  Oza. 
Speak, what of him?  Calli. 
The lustful Prince, my dear Ozaca, hath by his blood washed clean thy stain.  Oza. 
Ha. [ Shee Swoons]  Calli. 
Ozaca, my Ozaca, oh speak; the joy of her revenge overcomes her know my dear wife the Prince Orcanes for his foul rape on thee is by his noble father justly put to death: oh praise Melcoshus in thy soul, who would not be unjust to save his son being a villain.  Oza.. 
Is the Prince dead then?  Calli. 
Ay, my best love to my great comfort, now I may kiss thee joyfully, the wound thy honour did receive is cured.  Oz. 
Forbear, I must not kiss you, till I know by whom the cure was wrought, if any other than yourself informed against Orcanes, and so provoked the father to kill his son; nay, if you did not extol justice, and cry down mercy quite, though it be the greatest attribute belonging to the gods, hope not that I should ever look on you with love, or come within your bed.  Cal. 
Thinks my Ozaca, I so little love her, that I did sleep in my revenge: How often did I urge unto Melcoshus all arguments, that might incense him against his son, nay, told him, as I well might do, Orcanes could not be his Offspring that had so basely given himself to vice: However, I alleged in putting him to death, he should perform a justice, that would make him famous through the world, since natural affection, the gods appointing him to hold the balance, could not yet weigh down justice.  Oz. 
Did you allege all this, and did this move him to put the Prince to death?  Cal. 
It did. Me thinks thou look'st not kindly on me for all this.  Oz. 
And shall I live after Orcanes? No.  Cal. 
What says Ozaca?  Oz. 
Nothing, but is he dead, dead certainly, and by your means?  Cal. 
He is.  Oz. 
Umh, umh, gone, for ever gone.  Cal. 
Ozaca, speak to me.  Oz. 
He died to save my honour, and shall I live behind him, and live with him too, that triumphs in his death? It must not, it shall not be; I am too far indebted, I'll first make even with some. Oh husband, if you had killed Orcanes yourself, than the revenge had stood more noble. You should stabs her husband and herself. have struck him thus and thus.  Cal. 
Ozaca.  Oz. 
And then yourself to escape shameful death.  Cal. 
What can this cruelty in thee, Ozaca, mean?  Oz. 
Know, thou dull beast, I was so far from being forced, that I did burn in a more ardent flame than he: Yet, had thy jealous brain not taught thee, to frame that Letter for thine own dishonour, I had been innocent in act perhaps, how e'er my will had horned thee. But having once enjoyed a Prince so perfect, I never would admit thy loathed embraces, and so have rather chose death, with revenge on thee too boot, who wert the cause Orcanes suffered death. Being thus divorced from thee, I hope I in Elysium shall enjoy him  Enter Servants. Cal. 
Help ho, help ho, I find that this is truth, my wounds are witness, and that there is no trusting women's tears I durst have sworn thee more innocent, than now I see thee wicked; yet, however live, and repent thy sins, for I can forgive thee, nay, perchance never cease to love thee.  Oz. 
D●ll fool, canst thou believe my resolutions are so weak, as for the fear and pain of death, to give them over, less for the love of thee; were't thou the Monarch of the whole world, I would not live after Orcanes, to be the partner of thy glories; but as it is, this knife is far more welcome to me; than thy sight▪ fly, my soul, fly, and leave this loathed prison to meet Orcanes. So, so, let this witness, I for thee die, Orcanes, and hope I have revenged thee. [ dies.]  Cal, 
My wound is far more dangerous than I thought, and I, for aught I know, may bear thee company; but we shall soon part ways, if there be any justice in the gods. I would live, bear me to my chamber; and for that wicked woman, one my wife, let her be buried honourably. [ Exeunt servant with him.]  Enter Melcoshus. Mel. 
Night, dark thoughts, and justly so, since by my cruelties, obscured that light, which was my only comfort. Oh Despina, pardon me most penitent and now no more afflict me in my dreams; if thou be'st merciful. I will erect an Altar in this obscure Walk, and in the dead of night offer thee sacrifice; nay, even at noon day would I perform it, and in the sight of all, but that I know it must appear too plainly, that I to thee performed all rites with greater reverence, than to our sacred prophet and so the people might rebel, for fear of which, and loss of my near-fading honour, I did become thy cruel butcher. Bear me, cold earth, till I have some way reconciled myself to my dear saint.  Enter Haly and Captains. Hal. 
Are they come over?  1. Cap. 
They are. How are we sure he's here now?  Hal. 
'Tis not so dark, but we shall find him; stand close a little, perchance he's not come down yet.  Enter Osmond. Osm. 
You just powers, be this night auspicious in aiding my revenge; guide you this instrument as right unto his tyrant heart, as I will give it strength to pierce it: but soft, by the moon's light, I see some men before me, what can it mean? 'tis death for any but Melcoshus to enter here. 'Twould grieve my soul to die, and miss revenge too. Behind this bush unseen, I shall observe.  Mel. 
Oh my Despina.  Hal. 
he's in the Arbour, I heard him groan; let's lose no time, but strike him dead, before he draw his sword, or call for help; if he see to morrow's Sun he'll know too much of our designs ere night, for us to see it set Odmer suspects our conspiracy shrewdly, and suddenly will find the truth.  2 Cap. 
Delay no time then.  Osm. 
What's this I hear, how e'er in me it is but justice to take Melcoshus life in them 'tis damned treason, which I'll prevent; nor shall they frustrate me of my revenge their hands are far too base.  Hal. 
Draw, and dispatch him. They sight, Haly & be Captains slain.  Osm. 
Sink down to hell, Haly, thou root of treason, with these thy cursed branches.  Mel. 
Osmond, let me embrace thee in these wounded arms, I fear, to death. Thou wert ordained to be the lasting pattern of love and duty.  Osm. 
Forbear this kindness, for know, how e'rel did preserve you from their swords, I come myself to kill you for Despina's sake, her innocent blood cries for revenge; and by those powers I am ordained to see their justice satisfied, by taking life from him, who cruelly extinguished that pure light, which for a long time they intended should have been a comfort to the world, and a great witness of their power.  Mel. 
Nay, if my Osmond be a traitor but in thought once, he shall not need to use his sword, I would not wish to live beyond his faith; for, can there be a love or truth left in a subject, when 'tis not to be found in him. Now I perceive the murder I committed was most horrid, since he that loved me more than her, she she being alive, would now rob me of life to revenge her.  Osm. 
Know, Tyrant, I loved thee once, when thou wert worthy to be my Prince and Master, more than myself: But thou, when thou hadst satisfied thy beastly lust, to please the ignorant multitude, thou madest a sacrifice of her to them, to whom thou rather shouldst have made them offer sacrifice, on peril of their lives.  Mel. 
Osmond, thou art here more cruel in thy accusation, then in thy intent to kill me: For, from the danger of thy sword, there's a divinity that waits upon the person of a Prince, that would protect me; but against the thoughts of thy unexpected treason, there is no armour; for thy unkindness so invades my soul, that all that blood that should supply these nerves, flies to my heart to tell it, Osmond no longer does wish to have a being there, if so, to split it will be kindness,  Osm. 
Me thinks I find my resolution of revenge begin to bate its force.  Mel. 
If the consideration of your faith and love to me, so far prevail above your own affection, that you dispensed with it to make me happy; believe likewise, from the consideration of that care a King should have over his subjects, which wholly was, and ever should have been whilst she did live by me, neglected, I rather killed her, than that my love was aught diminished; for had I loved her less, she might have lived; but I believing her to be so excellent, could think of nothing whilst she lived, but her embraces.  Osm. 
And therefore would you make her suffer for your salt, was that the justice of Melcoshus? Your Son offended, and you punished him; but here you spared yourself, striking an innocent.  Mel. 
'Tis true, I struck her being innocent, yet did not injure her or any, but myself: I broke no laws of Gods nor men: to prove which, I ask no more of heaven, but that the taper of my life, which now grows dim, may burn some minutes longer; then shall I show my Osmond, by their light of reason, that my unhappy stars are rather guilty of Despina's death, than I; she was a Captive, and a Christian, which by our laws, we freely may dispose of as we please; her death then, had I been but a subject, was no breach of them.  Osm. 
She was a creature, for whose sake you would have once have broken all laws.  Mel. 
I could break none, my power being unconfined. But interrupt me not, lest I do faint, ere I can make an end. The soldiers were so far from being displeased, that they acknowledged her death a Jubilee. Our prophet Mahomet might most rejoice to see her breathless, whose perfections, being a Christian, so far outwent all those that honoured him, that some in time might justly doubt our God to be less powerful than theirs, and so the reverence we now pay, grow cold.  Osm. 
All this I grant; but for your injuries to her, what art can salve them?  Mel. 
She was the advocate of all those of her faith, and at my hands procured much mercy for them. The perfect Christian is so proud of nought as Martyrdom, and the more innocent from crime, the greater joy they take in death. Although Despina was not martyred for her faith, I grant, but by the force of her unequalled beauty, made a sacrifice to save my honour; yet amongst those of her sect, she cannot miss the adoration of a Saint: And so I only sent her to a greater happiness. You may allege it was a happiness.  Osm. 
Oh divine Despina.  Mel. 
She did not yet desire, to die but rather wished to live with me, she loved. To this again I answered, that I so much did dote upon her excellence, that I should have forgot to rule; and she must then have lived, to see me miserably deprived of state and honour. Yet, as it now falls out, my fortune then had been more favourable; for, then had Osmond's love been left a pattern to posterity, and I should sure have found the comfort of his faith, when all men else were traitors. But now—  Osm. 
He hath delivered this apology with so much grief, majesty, and love, that my own reason makes me know 'tis truth, and bids me justly turn that hatred, which I hither brought against him, upon my guilty self, for I have been a heinous traitor. Oh dread Sir, your pardon. But why should I once hope, I that have stood so strictly on my faith, and by a thousand obligations, been fast tied in bands of duty, yet thus to break without a just cause, just cause, as if there could be any pretence for treason: Shall injuries make men cease to be virtuous?  Mel. 
Let my soul part with joy, since Osmond sees his error; thy love to me, to virtue, and Despina, have fought so nobly, that it still overcames; which was most virtuous? thy love made thee present her to me, thy faith made thee refuse to take again what thou hadst given, when she did offer it; and when thou thoughtest, that cruelly and most unjustly I had killed Despina, thy noble anger made thee pursue revenge; but now, that thou dost find that anger was unjust, thy faith overthrows it, nay, turns it on thyself, since 'twas my fate, not I, was guilty of her death, which let my pardon mitigate, so at my death thou shalt express obedience, for now I feel his messenger approach; nor does it grieve me now so much to die, as to have lived, and thou been false. If Lovers meet in Elysium, and enjoy each other, there will thy virtue's gain Despina from me. [ he dies.]  Osm. 
Stay, he's gone, and shall I live, he and Despina dead? 'twere madness; for what is in the world left that's worthy; or, if there be two such, it is not like, that I shall love the one, and serve the other. The fates ordained me only for this end, he nursed and bred me, to wait upon him here, and in the other world. But should I stay, until the soldiers know he's dead, some one of greater faith and courage may, by a voluntary death, seek to prevent me; besides, Despina, and the expiation of my intended treason, urges me to die Come my dear friend, perform thy latest service, in sending me thy Master to Elysium. So, methinks I see Despina stand ready to embrace me, but for Melcoshus sake, even there again I will refuse her. Here at his honoured feet I'll lay me down. You gods, let not the noble affection of our soul change after death, let us remain all three so linked together in affection, as we were before this bloody separation. [ he dies.]  Enter Odmer, Hosa, Captain, and soldiers. Od. 
Be favourable, you gods, and grant, that the clashing of swords we heard within Melcoshus' private walk, have not prevented us; my heart misgives me that we come too late: Treason is swift in execution, the devil thrusting on to mischief; and see a bloody witness, that my fears are true, 'tis Haly. Mahomet, defend the Emperor.  Cap. 
See, here are others dead, the Emperor I think.  Odm. 
Ha! what sayest thou, screech Owl?  Hos. 
Alas, and noble Osmond too.  Odm. 
Cold as earth. You gods, was this your justice? could you suffer this royal building, which you had raised unto a glorious height, to show your power on mortals, to fall to earth again in such obscurity, as none could be witness of his ruin. But pardon me, you powers, I have profaned▪ we may conclude from these witnesses, he nobly fell, and died not unrevenged. He ever walked alone, how then comes Osmond here; one to suspect him for a traitor, were a sin against virtue, his very posture witnesses his love, kissing his Master's feet, but more his faithful hand assures me, that his wounds are from himself, as scorning the world, since it no longer did contain Melcoshus, who gave it lustre. And shall so young years show the way of love and duty, yet old Odmer fear to follow him? No, Boy, thou shalt not so outstrip me.  Hos. 
Hold, noble Odmer, will you forsake us too? then must the Tartar cease to be a people: Who shall command us? all will run to ruin. Accept the Empire rather.  Om. 
Hail Odmer, King of the Tartars.  Odm. 
Tempt not my faith so: shall hope of honours make me live after Melcoshus? Be this my witness to the contrary.  Capt. 
Odmer till now did never show, he was a greater lover of himself than virtue; he would sleep quiet in his grave, rather than by a little trouble in the world, preserve us all from ruin. But in the name of Mahomet, I charge you forsake death, and accept the Empire.  Odm. 
Grant, that Melcoshus' son, the dead Orcanes brother, when he's of age, may take my place, and I'll obey the gods, in yielding to your desires.  Om. 
Long live Odmer, King of the Tartars.  Odm. 
By whom you were inspired to teach me this more reasonable way of duty, take up this noble corpse; for which I will erect a tomb, shall make his name live to eternity, in which the faith and love of Osmond shall not be forgotten.   
FINIS.