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57 Pull'd people from the farthest sun to seek him, And beg his friendship. I was then his soldier. But since his hot pride drew him to disgrace me, And brand my noble actions with his lust (That never-cured dishonour of my sister, Base stain of whore! and, which is worse, The joy to make it still so) like myself, Thus I have flung him off with my allegiance; And stand here mine own justice, to revenge What I have suffered in him; and this old man, Wronged almost to lunacy.

Cal.Who—I? You would draw me in. I have had no wrong, I do disclaim ye all.

Mel.The short is this: 'Tis no ambition to lift up myself Urgeth me thus; I do desire again To be a subject, so I may be free. If not, I know my strength, and will unbuild This goodly town. Be speedy and be wise, In a reply.

Stra.Be sudden, sir, to tie All up again: What's done is past recall, And past you to revenge: and there are thousands, That wait for such a troubled hour as this. Throw him the blank.

Lys.Melantius, write in that Thy choice: My seal is at it.

Mel.It was our honours drew us to this act, Not gain: and we will only work our pardons.

Cal.Put my name in too.

Diph.You disclaim'd us but now, Calianax.

Cal.That is all one: I'll not be hang'd hereafter by a trick: I'll have it in.

Mel.You shall, you shall.— Come to the back gate, and we'll call you king, And give you up the fort.

Lys.Away, away.

Act 5, Scene IV

Scene: Antechamber to Evadne's Apartments in the Palace.

Asp.This is my fatal hour; Heaven may forgive My rash attempt, that causelessly hath laid Griefs on me that will never let me rest; And put a woman's heart into my breast. It is more honour for you, that I die; For she, that can endure the misery That I have on me, and be patient too, May live and laugh at all that you can do. God