Julia Agrippina, Empress of Rome<date type="creation_date">1628</date> May, Thomas This text is one of some 500 EEBO-TCP transcriptions of Early Modern plays that have undergone several routines to create an interoperable and algorithmically amenable corpus of Early Modern Drama. Many incompletely or incorrectly transcribed words, as well as obvious printers' errors have been corrected, but the text has not been proofread word by word. See the editorial declaration further down in the header for more details about this edition. Martin Mueller Incompletely or incorrectly transcribed words were reviewed and in many cases fixed by Nayoon Ahn Heejin Ro Martin Mueller
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The tragedy of Julia Agrippina; Empresse of Rome. By T.M. May, Thomas, 1595-1650. 52 600dpi TIFF G4 page images University of Michigan, Digital Library Production Service Ann Arbor, Michigan 2006 June (TCP phase 1) 99857207 STC (2nd ed.) 17718a. Greg, II, 554(AI). 22897 A07332


The tragedy of Julia Agrippina; Empresse of Rome. By T.M. Agrippina. May, Thomas, 1595-1650. [104] p. Printed by Ric. Hodgkinsonne for Thomas Walkly, and are to be sold at his shop at the Flying Horse neare Yorke house, London : 1639.

T.M. = Thomas May.

In verse.

Signatures: A-D12 E6 (-A11,12).

Intended to be issued with his: The tragedy of Cleopatra.

The first leaf is blank except for signature-mark "A" with ornaments.

Running title reads: Agrippina.

A variant (STC 17718) has "T.M. Esq." on title page.


The goal of this project is














By T. M

LONDON , Printed by Ric. Hodgkinsonne for Thomas Walkly , and are to be sold at his shop at the Flying Horse neare Yorke house . 1639 .

The Speakers . Claudius Caesar . Nero Caesar . Britannicus . Seneca . Burrhus . Vitellius . Pollio . Crispinus . Geta . Otho . Montanus . Petronius . Pallas . Narcissus . Anicetus . Agrippina . Octavia . Poppaea . Fulvia . Acte . Locusta . L.

ACTED 1628 .

OCTOB 26. 1638 . Imprimatur ,

MEGAERA ascends . Megaera . THus to the Romane Palace , as our home And proper mansion , is Megaera come No stranger to these walls : not more in Hell Then here , doe mischiefs , and we Furies dwell Let the unenvy'd Gods henceforth possesse Poore Peasants hearts , and rule in Cottages ; Let Vertue lurke among the rurall Swaines , Whilest Vice in Romes Imperiall Palace reignes , And rules those breasts , whom all the world obeys . What though the Gods and Vertue first did raise Rome to that height it holds ? they did but make An Empire large enough for us to take , And build a strength for us to manage now , Though Vertue made the Romane greatnesse grow : Shee now forsakes it at the height : the Powers , And fruits of all her diligence are ours . But to preserve that interest , and keep high Our hold in this commanding family , A blacker Fury then my selfe must rise , To fill these roofes with fresh Impieties . Rise cruell Ghost , ascend Caligula , That lately didst the worlds proud scepter sway Beyond our wish ; who though an Emperour , In wickednesse wer't greater then in power ; And cloth'd with flesh among mankind did'st dwell A Fiend more black then any was in Hell . From those darke vaults ascend ; to blast this faire And gorgious Palace , like that poisonous aire , Which Earth-quakes from the grounds torne entrailes breath To fill the world with pestilence and death . Hee comes ; Hee comes : the very house begins To shake with horrour of approching sinnes . The night growes blacker then before , and I My selfe am fill'd with new Impiety . CALIGULA'S Ghost . Why am I raised from the vaults below ? What mischiefs can an aëry shadow doe ? What can a naked Ghost performe ? In vain Are all intents , unlesse I reign'd againe Obey'd by all the Romane power , and wore That wicked body which I had before . What then I did you know , and if your power Could have maintain'd me longer Emperour , I had outdone your wishes , and given birth To such new mischiefes , as the suffring earth Had groan'd to feele : what my intentions were Did to the world in those black bookes appeare , When all Romes Senate were to death design'd , And chests of poison that I left behind , Which since my death into the Ocean throwne , Poison'd the waves for many leagues , and on Poore fishes wrought that execution , Which on mankind I ment they should have done . What can I now performe alas ? MEGAERA . Enough . With thy contagious presence blast this roofe ; Infect th' Imperiall House with all the ill That Hell and thou canst bring . Let mischiefe still Reigne here , and keep out banish'd Piety , Iustice , and Conscience ; let no sacred ty Of Nature , or Religious lawes restraine Their Parricidall hands : all names bee vaine Of brother , childe , or parent . let the wife With impious rage destroy her husbands life , The brother kill the brother , and the Sonne Rip up his parents bowels . GHOST . 'Twill be done . The actors are my kindred , and like mine Must play their parts : ambitious Agrippine , Pursue thy cruell projects , and upon A husband's murther raise thy Impious Sonne , That he may play the Parricide againe , And murder thee , that gav'st him life and reigne . That all the world astonish'd at so high Ingratitude and foule Impiety , May feare the Monsters reigne , yet suffer more Then they could feare , or ere was felt before . Let what no foes , no furies durst conspire To act 'gainst Rome , nor I my selfe desire When I was Prince ; bee cursed Nero's crimes . Let his dire story in succeeding times From all earths Tyrants elfe the wonder draw , And men almost forget Caligula . MEGAERA . The Fates consent ; that thunder , which wee heare From Acheron , confirmes the Omen there . Downe wicked Ghost into thy cell below , Wee must no longer bide ; the Cocks doe crow , The twinkling starres begin to hide their heads The day would dawne , and from Auroraes bed Would Titan rise , but that he feares to see Such instruments of Hells impiety . The Gods themselves forbid our longer stay , For feare our presence should retard the day . Exeunt .
A Tragedy .
ACT. I. SCEN. I. PALLAS , VITELLIUS , POLLIO . Pallas . NOw is the time noble Vitellius , For you , and you most honour'd Pollio , To make that service you have done compleat To royall Agrippina ; briefly thus : The two commanders o'th' Praetorian campe Crispinus Rufus , and that Lucius Geta Must be displac'd , and some of neerer trust To her designes advanced in their roome , Or else our power will nere be full , they love Britannicus too well , this is the thing The Empresse wishes ; let your eloquence And wisdome further it in Caesar's eare . Vitelli. Feare us not Pallas ; but what successors Have wee to take their charge ? Pallas . One must take all . You may pretend the inconvenience Of two commanders , and so take from Caesar All jealousie of the plot . Pollio .

Who shall it be ?

Pallas . Burrhus Afranius a wise valiant man , Belov'd and honour'd by the souldiers . None can except against him , and the change Will not displease the campe : nor can his merit Make him lesse thankfull to her ; knowing well , 'Twas in her power to make it otherwise . But the advancing of such able men As Seneca and Burrhus will take off All envy from the Empresse and our selves . Then wee with praise have wrought our purposes , And made our party strong , while Seneca Shall sway the Senate , Burrhus rule the campe To her designes : but I'le presume no farther T'instruct your wisedomes , or much lesse to doubt Your true affections to the state and honour Of Agrippina , who will then have power To make more large requitall to her friends , In which most high and happy ranke , you two Are chiefly seated : shee acknowledges Her selfe indebted to your eloquence Noble Vitellius , who in Senate lately You proov'd her marriage lawfull , and being Censor , Depos'd Silanus from his Praetorship , Who should have married young Octavia . To you , brave Pollio , whose perswasions Have beene the cause young Nero now enjoyes That happy marriage , which Silanus lost . But most of all shee ow'd to both your paines In causing Caesar to adopt her Nero . Vitellius . 'Twas hard to worke at first . Caesar stuck at it , Alledging that the Claudian family Never adopted any , and besides When Lucius Geta and Crispinus Rufus In love they bore to young Britannicus Told him that that adoption to the world Would bee ridiculous : by president Wee did refute it , shewing how Tiberius Having a Sonne and Nephew both alive , Adopted th' issue of Germanicus . Pallas . My Lords , 'twas nobly carryed ; this designe That now wee have in hand , though not so hard To worke , will prove as advantageous . Bee you with Caesar ; I'le goe satisfie The Empresse of your loves . Vitellius . Pollio .

Farewell brave Pallas . Exeunt Vitel. & Pol.

Pallas . Farewell my Lords . Goe flattering Senatours , Goe use your best perswasive eloquence , Whilest I alone upon your envie rise , Whilest I injoy in Agrippinaes love The fruit of your obsequious diligence . What though my birth be humble , and my stile But one of Caesars freed-men , though I boast not Patritian blood , nor in my galleries Display old ranks of nose-lesse ancestours , Or eare-cropt images , if I enjoy What ever high Nobility can give Respect and power : the state can witnesse it . The Senate feare mee , and in flattery Have su'd to Caesar to conferre on mee Praetorian and Quaestorian ornaments . Which I at last vouchsafed to accept . When my command alone has doom'd to death The noblest of that order ; men whose names Old Rome has boasted of , whose vertues rais'd Her to that envi'd height that now she holds . Their murders stupid Caesar rather chose To take upon himselfe , then question mee . Let dull Patricians boast their aery titles , And count me base , whilest I commend their lives , And for the furtherance of my high intents , Make noblest men my hated instruments . Enter NARCISSUS . But ha ! Narcissus ? yes ; there comes a man That was my rivall once , whom I fear'd more Then all the Lords of Rome , my fellow free'd man , That knew our wayes of power ; that not the Senate , But Caesars chamber did command the world , And rule the fate of men : but Fortune 's turn'd , And he not worth my regard or feare . In mastring him I feele my greatest strength exit . Narcissus . Not looke upon mee ! am I fall'n so low ? Did I in equall place with this proud man , Nay farre above him , sway the state , and rule Great Caesar's heart , while Messallina liv'd , And was not there content ( Oh punishment Of my ambitious aimes ) but caus'd the death Of that loose Empresse to bring in th' expulst Aelia Petina , and instead of her Have let this Tygresse Agrippina in This dragon spirit to devour us all Except proud Pallas her adulterer ? What unavoided dangers every way Threaten this life ? For if young Nero reigne , I dye , that sought to crosse his mothers match : If ere Britannicus do reigne , I dye That caus'd his mothers death . What shall I doo ? Where shall I leane for safety ? better trust The innocent goodnesse of Britannicus Then Agrippinaes feirce and cruell nature ; Nor can I hope more goodnesse from her sonne . That may give longer respite to my feare . Besides it beares the greater shew of justice , And honest service to my Roiall Master . Since wee must fall , it is some happinesse To fall the honest way , if wee may call That honesty at all , or reall vertue To which necessity enforces us , And wee by fortune not election practise . Enter GETA , CRISPINUS . Here comes two freinds of young Britannicus : Haile Lucius Geta , haile Crispinus Rufus . Geta.

Narcissus haile .

Narcissus , Brave Romans you are come Fitly to ease my overburden'd breast Of weighty thoughts , which I dare freely trust Vnto your noble eares . Geta. You may Narcissus Trust truth with us . Crispinus .

Or any honest secret .


What is't you would with us ?

Narcissus . You know my Lords , ( And I must needs confesse ) I was a meanes Of Messalinaes death ; but all the Gods Can witnesse with mee how unwillingly I lent a hand to that sad action ; And but for Caesar's safety , which I prize Above my life and fortunes , and which then I thought endanger'd much by her hold act , Nought in the world could ere have moov'd mee to it . Crispinus .

What hence would you inferre ?

Narcissus . Then Know my Lords , How little I respect my private ends To doe the publike service , and can loose My selfe for Caesars good : it may be thought When the most hopefull Prince Britannicus Shall weare that wreath which all the world adores , To me it may be fatall , as a foe Vnto his mother : but I rather wish My selfe for ever lost , then that brave Prince Should not succeed his father . Geta. How ! succeed ? What feare is there of that ? Crispinus . What power on earth , Can barre his right , whilest wee command the campe ? I'de rather see ( which all the Gods avert ) Rome rent againe with civill broiles , then hee Should loose unjustly the Imperiall throne . Narcissus . Y' are true and Noble friends ; and here I vow To joyne with you , and use my uttermost power T' advance the honour of Britannicus . Crispinus .

What danger threatens it ?

Narcissus . Doe you not know To whom the Sonne of Agrippina's married ; Crispinus .

Yes .

Narcissus . And that honor were enough for him . Without adoption too , were his aimes private , And that his crafty Mother did not cast A way for him to the succession . Crispinus .

'Twas strangely done of Caesar I confesse .

Narcissus . They make the faction strong , and cunningly Encrease the traine of Nero , and displace The faithfull servants af Britannicus . Wise Seneca's recall'd from banishment By Agrippinaes meanes , not for the love Shee beares his vertue ; but to make him hers , That Seneca's authority may gaine The peoples love to her ambitious sonne , Of whose young yeares hee takes tuition . Crispinus .

I think no lesse .

Geta. Besides to make the match For her young Nero with Octavia . Noble Silanus dy'd , who might have proov'd A faithfull prop to Claudius family . Narcissus . In blood that fatall marriage was begun , I feare the Omen ; Agrippina's feirce And cruell nature has too much been seene In this short time . Lollia Paulina , Neece To Cotta Messalinus , and late wife To Caius Caesar , for no other cause Then aiming once at Claudius marriage Is banish'd Italy ; her goods are seiz'd , And but five millions of Sesterces left her Of all her great estate ; but there the malice Of this fell woman stayes not : now wee heare A Tribune is dispach'd away , to kill The banish'd Lady , and bring back her head . Crispinus .

Oh barbarous cruelty !

Narcissus . Yet more I feare , Since her Domitius is adopted now . I feare shee'll shortly aime at higher blood . Geta.

Wee'll guard the life of young Britannicus .

Narcissus . And I'll be vigilant for Caesar's safety . When all her ends are wrought his death is next . Enter BRITANNICUS . Geta.

Here comes the youthfull hope of Rome and us .

Britanicus .

Tell mee , my friends , am not I Caesar's sonne ?

Crispinus .

My Lord , who dares to question it ?

Britannicus . I'm sure , I was his eldest sonne , and whilest I liv'd I thought that Caesar had not lack'd an heire But I at last have found an elder brother , Domitius is adopted Caesar's sonne His name is Nero now . I cannot tell What is my fault . Geta. Excellent youth , how much Beyond his yeeres hee apprehends his wrongs ? Crispinus . Feare not sweet Prince , though Agrippinas sonne Bee two yeere elder then your selfe , the Senate Will never judge that an adopted Sonne Shall in succession bee preferr'd before The true and naturall heire . Britannicus . You ever lov'd mee , Pray doe so still . Geta While wee have breath , my Lord , you shall command our lives . Crispinus How unawares Has feeble Caesar wrought a snare to catch His own unhappy life in ! grow sweet prince , Grow up to strengthen the Imperiall house , And Curbe the furious malice of thy foes . Enter NERO , PALLAS . Nero .

Brother Britannicus haile .

Britannicus . Haile to you Domitius Anobarbus . Nero . Doe you scorne My salutation , or not know my name ? Britannicus .

That was your fathers name ; and why not yours ?

Nero .

How's that ? Proud boy . Exeunt Brit. & reliq .

Pallas . Well , let them goe , my Lord . 'Twas not the braine of young Britannicus That could give birth to this minurious scorne , Though for his yeeres , the boy be capable . But riper heads then his : there went his counsell Crispinus Rufus , and that Lucius Geta , Who swell the youth with boasting hopes , and thinke Their power can give protection to his pride . I'le make them see their errour , and perceive , One breath of mine can blow them from their strength This newes I'll beare to Agrippina straight . Come Prince ; Britannicus shall find anon What feeble props his pride has lean'd upon . Exeunt . AGRIPPINA , SENECA , VITELLIUS , POLLIO . Agrippina .

You are my Judges .

Seneca .

Your poore servants , Madam .

Agrippina . Nay that must be your office ; you have read My Commentaries over , and I looke for A faithfull censure : I am sure , my Lords , You have both learning able to discerne , And such integritie as will not flatter . Speake Seneca ; I see they looke on you : How doe you like them ? Seneca . Royall Agrippina , Such , and so good they bee , that ablest men May boldly speake , and not offend the truth , Nor you at all ; the stile is full and Princely . Vitellius . Stately and absolute , beyond what ere These eyes have seene ; and Rome , whose majestie Is there describ'd , in after times shall owe For her memoriall to your learned pen , More then to all those fading monuments Built with the riches of the spoiled world . When rust shall eate her brasse , when times strong hand Shall bruise to dust her marble Palaces , Triumphall Arches , Pillars , Obeliskes , When Julius Temple , Claudius Aquaeducts , Agrippa's Baths , and Pompey's Theater , Nay Rome it selfe shall not be found at all , Historians books shall live ; those strong records , Those deathlesse monuments alone shall shew What , and how great the Roman Empire was . Pollio . The act is Noble ; not the present world Alone shall owe to Agrippinas worth ( As for her gratious government it does ) But future ages shall acknowledge more To the rich labours of her Royall pen . Agrippina . The wisest Princes never sought to raise Their present state alone , but to preserve Themselves immortall by an endlesse fame . For memory of mee , besides these bookes , If that our Augures faile not in their skill , Or flatter not , that German Colony , Which I of late deducted o're the Rhine To Ubium , for evermore the name Of Agrippinaes Colony shall beare . Vitellius . That act , though great , declares your power alone , Your wealth and greatnesse : but these learned bookes Expresse your wisedome , and for these you owe Nothing at all to Fortune . Agrippina . Thus I meane To spend all time which from affaires of state , And businesse of our Empire can be spar'd . Seneca .

Is she already turn'd our Emperour ?

Agrippina . Those wretches have too narrow soules , who thinke That persons great and eminent in state Can spare no time to purchase same by writing , But what they steale from action and imployment , As if no mind were large enough for both . Who was more full of action , and more fit To rule , nay rule the world , then Julius Caesar ? Yet he was of my mind . Seneca . Oh strange male spirit ! Can there be found no other parallell But Julius Caesar to a womans minde ? Agrippina . Yet Julius was too blame , hee toild too much To get his honour , and too much debarr'd His nature the free use of Princely pleasures . Sure Lucius Sylla had an ample minde ; Tis Syllaes Character , that Salust gives him , A free and great enjoyer of his pleasures , Yet how industrious his actions speake , Hee found fit time to rule the Romane world , And write both Greeke and Latine Commentaries . Seneca . The soules of Sylla and of Caesar both I thinke have enter'd her . Agrippina . Well worthy friends , You doe approve my way of writing then . Seneca . Yes gracious Madam ; and because you nam'd Great Julius to us , I was thinking now That as in blood , so in your stiles of writing There was some neerenesse . Agrippina . Seneca , I thanke you ; But I confesse your positive approbation Pleas'd mee as well as that comparison . Seneca .

Does not your Majestie esteeme his booke ?

Agrippina . Indifferent well ; a good loose carelesse way . I thinke directly with Asinius Pollio , Had Caesar liv'd , hee would have mended it ; The man had farre more in him then that shewes . Seneca . Yet under favour , Madam , some have thought Those Commentaryes hardly could be mended , A stile so strong , naked , and beautifull , Free from affected words , and from all glosse Or dresse of Oratory , as in stead Of leading others in a way to write , It quite discourages the ablest men . So Hirtius thought , and that fam'd Cicero , The greatest master of Romes eloquence . Agrippina . Are those your authors then ? that Hirtius Was Caesars servant partiall in his heart , Or else hee flatter'd him ; for Cicero , They were so farre out of his tedious straine , Hee could not censure them . Seneca . Yet able men Can truly censure of another stile Then what themselves have us'd . Agrippina . Hee was not able , No , not in Oratory ; had I rul'd Rome and her Senate then , as now I doe , Not all th' Orations that e're Cicero Made in the Senate , should have sav'd one haire Of an offendour , or condemn'd a Mouse . Vitellius .

How confident shee is in censuring !

Seneca . I am amaz'd : but let her have her way . Forgive my silence noble Cicero ; Here thy defence is vaine ; but what I spare , The tongues of all posterity shall speake . Enter PALLAS , Tribune . Pallas . The Tribune , Madam , is return'd and brings Lollia Paulinaes head . Agrippina .

Let him come in .

Tribune .

Your pleasure , great Augusta , is perform'd .

Agrippina . Let me peruse this face : ha ! 'tis much chang'd . Her teeth shall make me sure , they did not grow Dio. The common way ; I am confirm'd ; 'tis shee . Reward him Pallas . Tribune . The Gods preserve Augusta Agrippina . Agrippina . O pale death , Thou mock of beauty , and of greatnesse too : Was this the face , that once in Caesar's love Was Agrippinaes rivall , and durst hope As much 'gainst mee , as my unquestion'd power Has wrought on her ? Was this that beautie , once That wore the riches of the world about it ? For whose attire , all lands , all seas were search'd , All creatures rob'd ? This ! This was that Paulina , Whom Cajus Caesar serv'd , whom Rome ador'd And the world feared . Seneca . Such a sight mee'thinks Should make her sadly thinke of humane frailty . Agrippina . Take hence the head , least in her death shee gaine A greater conquest o're mee , then her life Could ever doe , to make me shed a teare . I would not wrong the justice I have done So much as to lament it now : You know My friends , shee had a spirit dangerous . And though my nature could have pardon'd her , Reason of state forbade it , which then told mee Great ruines have been wrought by foolish pity . Seneca . Would shee had such a nature ! but 'tis now Too late to give her counsell . Pallas . So let all That dare contest with Agrippina , fall . Enter servant . Servant .

Caesar is come to visite you .

Agrippina . Now friends , Vitellius , Pollio , Pallas second mee . Enter CAESAR , ANTISTIUS . Caesar .

How fares my Agrippina ?

Agrippina . Wondrous well , When I am blest with Caesars company . Caesar . That shall be oft , my love , when Romes affaires , And publike businesse will give me leave . Agrippina . I would partake my selfe of those affaires , Rather then want your presence Pallas .

I beleeve it .

Caesar . Thou shalt ; 'tis onely for thy dearest sake I love my fortunes , thy sweet fellowship Makes light the burthen of my government . Agrippina . To ease great Caesars care , shall ever bee The height of my desires : before you came My heart was sad . I sent for these my friends T' impart the reason to them . Caesar .

Sad ; for what ?

Agrippina . Weighing the troubles of a Princely state , And all the dangers that still threaten it . Caesar .

Dangers !

Pallas . Shee strikes upon the fittest string ; No passion reignes in him so much as feare . Agrippina . Wee were devising of the fittest meanes To give your state security : you know Your strongest guard is the Praetorian campe . Caesar .

Most true .

Agrippina . That campe commanded now by two , May be by Captaines too ambitious strife Divided into factions , and so made Lesse serviceable , should your safety need them . Vitellius . Caesar remembers when that bold attempt Of Silius was , how the Praetorian campe Was by their generall strife in mutiny , And had not one been chosen for that day To rule them all , Caesar had not been safe . Pollio . Wise men in calmes provide for stormes to come . None knowes how dangerous the times may prove , Though now the state be safe , and may the Gods To Caesar's honor long preserve it so . Seneca . What new designe is this , that all of them aside . Second so readily , and I was not Acquainted with it ? If't prove mischievous , I thanke the Empresse for my ignorance . Agrippina . Burrhus Afranius is a worthy man , Fit for the place , and faithfull , well-belov'd By all the souldiers : such a change , my Lord , None can except against : Let him take all . Seneca . What ere her ends may bee , this proposition For noble Burrhus sake , I must approve . Caesar . 'Tis true , my love , I make no question Of Burrhus worth , and fitnesse for the place : But what offence have Geta and Crispinus Been e're accus'd of ? Or what just suspitions Are there of them ? Agrippina . I will not be unjust , To accuse guiltlesse men , although I price Thy safety , Caesar , equall to my life . I know no crimes of note they have committe . Vitellius . Caesar , it is no losse to them at all ; They both have plentious fortunes to retire to . Pollio . And in so neere a cause , who dares examine Great Caesar's counsells , or enquire the reason ? Agrippina . Shall Burrhus have it Caesar ? speake thy pleasure . Or if my care offend , I shall hereafter Forbeare to meddle . Caesar . No , sweet Agrippina ; Since thou wilt have it so ; goe Pallas , draw The warrant straight , and seale it in our name : Let Geta and Crispinus be remoov'd , And Burrhus take possession presently . This day , my love , the Britane prisoners Sent from Ostorius Scapula , and late Arriv'd at Rome , shall be in publike shew'd . There thou shalt see that brave Barbarian Prince , That bold Caractacus , whose stubborne spirit So many yeares contemn'd the Roman power . Hee now is taken . Pollio . 'Twas a victory Sent from the Gods to honor Claudius reigne . Agrippina . Had he been basely taken , or at first Yeelded himselfe , as hee had got no honour , But been forgotten in his fall , and nought Had e're been mention'd of him but his death : So had thy glory Caesar been farre lesse . Vitellius . Not warre-like Syphax the Numidian King , Stubborne Jugurtha , nor great Perseus Ere brought to Rome by their captivity More reall honour then this Britane Prince . Caesar . Nor doe wee price our name Brittannicus Fetch'd from that Iland , lesse then Scipio His honour'd name of Africanus priz'd . Pollio . Thy stile , O Caesar , is the greater farre Drawne from the conquest of another world , Which nature ment by enterposing cold And stormy seas , to guard from Latian armes . Vitellius . Great Julius Caesar did but only shew That land to us , whose conquest was reserv'd By heavens decree to honour Claudius name . Agrippina . Caesar , let's sit together ; one Tribunall Will hold us both . Caesar . It shall bee so , my love , Thou , as my selfe , shalt pardon or condemne .
ACTUS II. POPPAEA , OTHO . Poppaea . MY love , deare Otho , faine would bid thee stay : But danger now forbids it , for my Lord Returnes by this time homewards from the Pallace . Otho . Wee must obey the times necessity Sweetest Poppoea , though I part from thee With such a sad'nesse as will loose by all Comparisons and cannot bee exprest But by it selfe , to say that Otho parts From faire Poppaea , is more tragicall Then soule from body , honour from a man . Poppoea . I could , mee thinkes , flatter my feares , to keepe Thee ever heere . Otho . And I can scorne all feares , And dangers too , if thou command mee stay . Poppaea . No , goe , my Love , and warily let's meete That wee may often meete : but why should still Our highest blisse want freedome ? Otho . 'Tis my faire one , The envy of the Gods , who thinke the state Of men would aequall theirs , if greatest joyes Were easyest to obtaine , and therfore still In horrid dangers wrap their dearest guifts , As all the Poëts ancient fables taught . Fire-breathing Buls did guard the Colchian fleece ; A waking dragon kept the golden fruit . But thou , Poppaea , in my thoughts a prize Of greater value , and more lustre farre Then that which drew the bold Thessalian forth So farre from Greece , or made Alcmenaes sonne Invade th' Hesperides , art kept from mee By stronger guards , the awfull Roman lawes , Those lawes resist our love . Poppaea . Oh where was Otho Then , when my virgin blossome was the hope Of thousand noble youths ? hadst thou beene seene Poppaeaes bed and beautyes had beene thine , And with a lawfull uncontrolled flame Had met thy wish in those delights , which now Wee are inforc'd to steale . Otho . Must it bee so For ever then ? Poppaea .

It must while Rufus lives .

Otho . Nor can I blame blest Rufus , if hee strive To keepe that wealth , which if it lay beyond The Indian Ganges , Scythian Tanais , Or horned Ammons scorch'd and thirsty sands , Would draw the Roman Monarch to forsake His worlds Imperiall seat there to enjoy , And think those banish'd that remain'd at Rome . If I were Caesar , and condemn'd by fate To want Poppaeaes love , I should bee poore . No other deare prerogative could that High wreath bestow , but only power to make Thee mine without a rivall : I might then With boldnesse take thee from Crispinus armes . Poppaea .

But could that act bee lawfull ?

Otho . Canst thou doubt it ? Where two loves meete can marriage bee unlawfull ? Of which love is the soule , the very forme That gives it being no dead outward ty , But natures strong and inward sympathy . Can make a marriage , which the Gods alone Have power to breede in us , and therfore they Have only power to ty so sweete a knot . I am thy mate ; nor did thy father , when Hee gave that snowy hand unto another , Ought but rebell against the Gods decree . Poppaea . Thou art to good an advocate , and I Too partiall for a judge . Otho . Bee constant to mee Till fortune give a bolder priviledge . And warrant to our love , of which I have Receiv'd such faire presages , as I cannot Despaire ; meane while by stealth I must behold Those starry eyes , and think my selfe most happy In that , though no man know my happinesse . Poppaea . Can men count those delights a happinesse Which they conceale ? Otho .

Yes , those that truly love . Enter Fulvia .

Fulvia .

Madam , my Lord is come .

Poppaea .

Farewell deare Otho .

Otho .

Farewell : love guard thee till wee meete againe . exit .

Enter CRISPINUS , GETA . Crispinus . Come Lucius study to forget it now , And let's bee truly merry ; my Poppaea Bid' Lucius Geta welcome , my colleague That was , but still my frend . Poppaea .

You are most welcome .


Thankes fairest Lady .

Poppaea . But my Lord , what meanes That speech of yours , that Lucius Geta once Was your colleague and is not . Crispinus . I tell thee , Great Agrippina has commanded Caesar To command Pallas to command us two . To quit our charge and suddainly resigne The governement of the Praetorian campe 〈◊〉 Burrhus hand ; at which hee stormes ; but I am merryer farre , and lighter then before . Wee may live freely now ; Caesar has tane 〈◊〉 weighty burthen from my weary necke . Thanke his goodnesse . Geta. Thanke his sottishnesse , Tis that has pleasured you . ah frend it needes Must grieve all noble hearts , that can love justice , And pity suffring innocence , to see The harmelesse yeares of young Britannicus Expos'd to all the malice of his foes , And stupid Caesar made the instrument To ruine his owne sonne : whilest his great power By others is abus'd against himselfe And his posterity . Crispinus .

I do beleive it .

Geta. His servants all , that to himselfe were true , Or faithfull to his sonne , are murther'd now , Or else displac'd by her : our truth's the cause That wee have lost our places . Crispinus . Tis no matter ; Wee loose no honour by our truth ; and since While wee had power , wee faithfully discharg'd Our trust to Caesar , let's no longer stirve To guard him 'gainst his will ; but take his gift . Hee gives us ease , and freedome , to retire , And tast the sweetes of privaty , and there Enjoy our lives free from the glorious noise , And troubles of a Court ; instead of waiting On Caesar now , on thee I will bestow That time , my faire Poppaea , and attend On thy delights ; thou wilt not cast mee off As Caesar does . Fulvia . Shee cannot promise you I know her heart better then you in that . Crispinus . None can describe the sweetes of countrey life But those blest men that do enjoy , and tast them . Plaine husband men , though farre below our pitch Of fortune plac'd , enjoy a wealth above us . To whome the earth with true and bountious justice Free from warres cares returnes an easy food . They breath the fresh and uncorrupted aire , And by cleare brookes enjoy untroubled sleepes . Their state is fearlesse , and secure , enrich'd With severall blessings , such as greatest Kings Might in true justice envy , and themselves Would count too happy , if they truly knew them . Geta. Tis true , Crispinus , greatest Monarchs oft Have in the midst of all theyr carefull gloryes Desir'd such lives as those plaine people lead . Crispinus . Let us enjoy that huppinesse then Lucius The countrey sports and recreations And friends as innocent as wee , with whom Wee need not feare the strength of richest wine In drawing out our secrets : but well fill'd At suppertime may hold a free discourse Of Caesar's weakenesse , of the wealth and pride Of his freed'men , how lordly Pallas rules ; How feirce and cruell Arippina is , What slaves the Roman Senate are become , And yet next morne awake with confidence . Poppoea . All this , my Lord , you may discourse at Rome If you can wisely choose your company . Crispinus . Well said Poppaea , thou art a woman right Thou lov'st the city well . Geta. I cannot blame her , Such beauty seekes no corners , but may well Become th' Imperiall city of the world . Crispinus . Come Lucius Geta , let's goe in and laugh At our proud enemyes , enjoy theire malice , And drowne our cares in rich Falernian wine As ancient as Opimius Consulship . Enter to them NARCISSUS . Geta. Here comes a man , Crispinus , I beleive Is sory for this change . Crispinus .

I thinke so Lucius .

Narcissus .

Haile noble Romans .

Crispinus . Haile to you Narcissus . How dare you venture a salute on us , Or make a visite to such guilty men ? Narcissus .

Guilty my Lord , in what ?

Crispinus . In beeing wrong'd . Those that are wrong'd in Court , are made offendours . Narcissus . I must confesse , my Lord , it was a wrong To you and your Colleague to bee displac'd , But you have spirits great enough to scorne That injury , and pity him that did it , I meane that suffer'd his proud foes to doo it Rather against himselfe then you ; the wrong Must fall on Caesar , and his haplesse house . Blinded by fate , and neere his fall , hee throwes Away the best supporters of his state . Geta. The thought of that as I am true , Narcissus , Afflicts mee more then mine owne losse can doe . Crispinus . For mee , I thinke my selfe well free'd from trouble Were't not for feare of poore Britannicus . Narcissus . I doo beleeve it , noble Lords ; but you Are now dischar'gd , and may retire with safety . My part is yet to play , a part of danger , And I will act it bravely : here I vow By all the Gods , no feare shall make mee shrinke Till I have once more righted Claudius Against the lusts and treasons of a wife . Nor do I boast of Messalinaes death . It was the times necessity , that made Mee then to shew my power : that power perchance Is yet as much ; nor shall the Lordly Pallas , Though swell'd with Agrippinaes lustfull favours , And back'd by her authority , hee thinke Himselfe sole ruler in th' Imperiall house , Finde that Narcissus is so fall'n in spirit But that I dare attempt as much as then . Great Caesar's safety is as much in danger As then it was , his nuptiall bed as stain'd , And I will dy , or take the same revenge , That then was taken ; all their plots and treasons Will I reveale to Caesar , and pursue it With such a dauntlesse constancy , that if The Gods forget not to bee just , this day Proud Agrippina , and her minion fall . The young Britannicus shall stand secure In his high birthright ; Messalinaes ghost Shall then perchance , although shee hate mee now , forgive the hand that caus'd her overthrow , Geta.

Bravely resolu'd , Narcissus .

Crispinus . You shall doe An act that all good men shall thank you for . Will you goe in , and tast my wine . Narcissus . Not now . I came but only to reveale my purpose To you , whose noble wishes may befriend it , And when occasion serves , may truly witnesse My just intents ; this hower I am expected By Caesar in his gardens ; there I'll put My life upon the hazard ; every minute May breede a change , and all delayes have danger . For Caesar upon those discoveryes That I already have made to him , utter'd Some words last night at supper in his wine . Of which I feare that Agrippina tooke Too great a notice ; therfore speede must helpe us . Farewell my Lords . Ambo.

Farewell : the Gods assist thee . Exeunt .

OTHO . Otho . So rich a bondage is Poppaeas love , That I were base if I should with for freedome , Nay more , ingrate , should I desire to change So sweete a care for quietnesse it selfe ; Should I suppose that state , which some dull soules Call calme content , were halfe so rich , so free As are these pinings , this captivity . Were there in love no cares , no sighs , no feares , There were in love no happinesse at all . What blisse , what wealth did e're the world bestow On man , but cares and feares attended it ? Yet who so base , as , to bee freed from those , Would throw away the highest blisse on earth ? Let silly shipheards , whose poore narrow soules Not much exceede the beasts they tend and feede , That know , like them , no farther regions Then some few feilds , no larger bounds of pleasure Then satisfaction of bare natures needes , Bee still secure since they have nought to loose , And rest content because they never knew What cityes were , and gorgeous Pallaces . Should Monarchs , who are taught to know th' extent Of natures wealth , and what the world affords , Forgoe their glorious fortunes , cause they want That wretched thing , which only ignorance , And low contempt can give , Security ? Should I forgoe my faire Poppaeaes love Because some cares , some feares , and sighs attend it : When every smile of hers can recompence A thousand such ? were too much poorenesse in mee Had I nere seene those starry eyes of hers More haplesse farre my ignorance had beene . I had , like wretched men , that are borne blinde , Nere knowne there was a Sunne to guild the world . But to injoy her love without all feares , Without all rivalls , were a blisse beyond Mortality : the Gods would envy mee . Shee's now another mans : that may bee thought The greatest barre to Otho's happinesse . But I have framed in my jealous thoughts A greater barre then that : young Nero Caesar , In whose acquaintance I of late have found So neere a roome , as faire presages tell us , Is like to weareth th' Imperiall wreath : his power May take her for mee from Crispinus armes . But then perchance I loose her more then ever . Or should hee see her now to rivall mee I were undone : hee's amorous , and oft Sollicites mee to let him see my Mistres . I for that frendship , which I dare not loose , Dare not deny his importunity . And therfore to prevent what may ensue ( For yet hee never heard Poppaeas name ) I have made love to the faire freed woman Young Acte of meane ranke , but such a face , As whosoever had not seene Poppaea Would thinke this Acte natures Masterpiece . On her will I divert young Nero's love . And to that purpose I have got her picture . But here hee comes . Enter Nero . Nero . What Otho , still retir'd ? Where lives the face that breedes this melancholy ? There is no other cause can doe't : I know Thou art not busy'd with affaires of state . I prithee let mee see her : a friends counsell May ease thy passion . Otho . Tis not fit a Prince Should stoope so low as to the passions Of private men . Noro . The name of friend admits Of no such distance . Otho . Sr. no man , whom you Are pleas'd to call a friend , deserves that name , Unlesse hee know himselfe to bee your servant . Nero . Come prithee leave thy fooling , and bee plaine . Where there is no familiarity Society is lost : why art thou fearfull To let mee see her whosoere shee bee ? Otho . Sr. I could give you a plaine common reason , If shee bee foule , shee is not worth your sight . If faire , you are too great a rivall for mee . But yet , know Sr. I am so free from those Unworthy feares , that I dare trust my life , My love , and all I have into your hands . Nero . Spoke like a friend , and thou maist safely doo't . Then first behold her picture , and by that Find whether shee bee worth the sight or no . Nero .

Can any mortall beauty bee so sweete ?

Otho .

I would there were not .

Nero .

Sure the painter flatters .

Otho . Oh no , hee had not art enough to reach The glory of it ; were the substance here How dull would this now lovely table show ! See how his greedy eyes devoure the picture . Hee's caught , hee's caught ; Cupid I thanke thee now . Nero . I never saw true beauty till this houre . But wherfore didst thou wish there were no substance So sweete as this ? why would'st thou bee depriv'd Of such a happinesse ? but I perceive It is thy feare : come , let it not bee so . I but desire to see whether the painter Have err'd or no : and do not thinke , my Otho , That I will wrong thy love so much , or make My wife Octavia jealous . Otho . Sr. how ere , My life , my love , and fortunes all are yours . Exeunt . CLAUDIUS , NARCISSUS . Narcissus . Your Majesty may yet prevent it all , And justly throw upon the Traitors heads That ruine which so boldly threatens you , And your too much abused family . Yet Caesar may bee safe , if hee will use That power the Gods have put into his hands . Caesar . What course , Narcissus , can wee run , to make The people sensible of our estate , What danger threatens us , and how our Justice Is forc'd to meete the treasons of a wife ? Narcissus . Let not too vaine a care of popular breath , Or what the Vulgar may surmise , outweigh The safety of youre person and youre house . But I am most assur'd that all the world Except youre selfe , have long observ'd theire plots , And if they see your waken'd Justice now Arise to censure Agrippinaes death , They will not thinke the execution done Too soone on her : these humble knees , Oh Caesar . Which for your safety I so oft have bow'd Before the Gods , now to your sacred selfe I bow , entreating that you would bee safe , And not beleeve the Gods by miracle Will worke for you whilest you neglect your selfe . Caesar . Arise Narcissus , tis th' unhappy fate Of Princes ever ( as Augustus Caesar Was wont to say ) the people ne're beleeve That treasons were complotted 'gainst theire persons Untill those treasons take effect , and then Too late perchance they pity and beleeve . Narcissus . But was the wise Augustus therfore slow Or timorous to cut offenders off ? Fear'd hee the peoples whispers ? Caesar , no . Hee well knew to use the sword hee had . Hee had not else liv'd till times gentle hand Dissolv'd in peace his long felicity , And made the world by such continuance Of power , beleeve hee was a God on earth . Caesar . But some offendours are too great to suffer The common course of Justice : against such Wise Princes have forborne to draw the sword , And rather sought some wayes of policy How to ensnare them . Narcissus . Caesar , those are wayes As much unfit for Princes as unsafe . As many Monarchs have in dangerous times Beene ruin'd quite by going wayes too low ( Though they have seemed subtle ) as proud subjects Have beene undone by playing Princes parts . And as this high , and open way befits The power and person of earths greatest Monarch : So it befits the times necessity . You have already , Caesar , shew'd your sword , And if you strike not now , you do not right Your selfe at all , but only arme your foes With plots of mischeife to prevent their owne , And hasten on your quicke destruction . You have already threaten'd , and those speeches By Agrippina , and her minion Pallas Were overheard ; who , like seene snakes will now Bestirre themselves in a more desperate fury . I have already cast mine owne poore life Into the utmost hazard : but alas ! That is a thing not now considerable . The Gods above can tell how willingly For Caesar's safety I would sacrifice This life ; make mee the cheifest instrument Impose what part of this exploit you please Upon Narcissus hand , and if I faile To execute , I'll not refuse to dy . Caesar . Oh my Narcissus ; I have found thy faith In other services : it is resolv'd , Their pride shall feele my justice ; thou shalt see How soone I will secure my self and thee . Exeunt . AGRIPPINA , PALLAS . Agrippina . Wee are discover'd Pallas : all our drifts Are sounded by Narcissus , and by him Lay'd ope to Caesar , who dissembling yet The knowledge of it , seekes a suddaine way To ruine both of us : nor had wee fear'd So soone as felt his fury , had not wine Betray'd his thoughts to us ; you know last night What speeches Caesar in his drunkennesse Let fall before us ; and twas lately told mee That meeting young Britannicus hee wept , Confest that hee had wrong'd him , and there vow'd A quicke redresse : what counsell shall wee take ? Pallas . Wee have no time for counsell : but must act As soone as thinke : wee goe not now to worke But to prevent a mischeife , and our cure Must bee as strong , and quicke of operation As our disease is dangerous and suddaine . That bird , that sees the snare , and will bee caught Deserves his death : and since that Caesar knowes His purpose is discover'd ( as Narcissus Ha's before this inform'd him that wee heard it ) Hee'l quickly act what else hee had deferr'd . No way is left us but to meete the danger , And for prevention first attempt to doe That which wee feare to suffer . Agrippina . By what meanes Shall wee procure his death ? for poison slow Perchance may faile to lend a timely helpe Unto our safety ; and too quicke a venome May make the fact supected . Pallas . Should the fact Bee nere so much suspected , your estate Would bee more safe then now it is ; but who Would dare to utter it when Caesar's dead , And your owne Sonne the Emperour : for so My confidence assures mee it will bee . Therfore bee speedy , Madam ; for your danger Where fame , where life , and Empire all are threaten'd , Gives you no nice election . So't bee done No matter how . Agrippina . Thou hast confirm'd mee , Pallas . The way's resolv'd already ; there were lately The fairest mushromes sent from Lybia That ere these eyes beheld , a meat which hee Affects with greedinesse ; in one of those Caesar shall meete his death ; if that should faile His cheife Physitian Xenophon is mine . But are things stong , and ready to confirme The Empire upon Nero . Pallas . Tis the best And happiest time , before Britannicus Bee growne to riper yeares , while yet hee weares His childish robe , and Nero has beene showne To all the people in triumphall weedes . But when the deed is done , place warily Your guards about the Pallace gates , and keepe Britannicus within ; whilest Nero back'd By Seneca and Burrhus , by the campe And Senate bee saluted Emperour , And all be setled sure . Agrippina . How fit a time To work his own destruction Caesar chose To tempt with threatning Agrippinas fury !

Is Nero fir'd ?

Otho . Extremly . I at first Seem'd melancholy to loose Acte so , And hee seem'd loath to wrong mee ; but at last When his desires were high , I cunningly Withdrew my interest , and gave way to his . Which hee has taken for the greatest favour That ever man could doe him and I hope It has endear'd him strongly . Montanus . Thou wilt grow A happy man . Petronius . Tis the best way to rise . The wench is faire , and of behaviour Wanton enough to make the arrantst novice A perfect scholler in the schoole of Venus . Seneca himselfe rather will give way That hee should satisfie his lust on her Then seeke th'adulteries of noble women . Montanus . But gentlemen , have you not heard the newes ? There is a great combustion in the Palace As I have been inform'd , theeves are fall'n out . The two proud freemen Pallas and Narcissus Are clashing 'gainst each other . Petronius . I am glad ont . I hope some curious rogeries will come on't . Those are the fellowes that have rul'd the state These many yeeres , and trampled on the lives Of noble men Caesar's credulous weakenesse . But yet mee thinks Narcissus should not dare Now to contest with Pallas he has got Too great a start of him , and is too neere Acquainted with the empresse . Montanus .

So they say .

Otho . Has a fine time on't who would think the rogue Sould bee so ambitious as to court an Empresse ? Petronius . 'Twas her ambitions to bee made the wife Of Claudius , that first made her prostitute Her selfe so low , and court this fellows love , Whom she perceiv'd to have a ruling power Over his doating master , to ambition Shee sacrific'd her honour tis well known . Montanus . And hee by dooing of the Empresse , takes The surest way of keeping Caesars love Petronius .

Yes , there's no doubt of that . You know the proverbe .

Enter to them ANICETUS . Anicetus .

Well met my Lords ; I come to finde you out .

Otho .

What's the newes Anicetus ?

Anicetus . Great my Lord . Caesar , is wondrous sick ; 'tis thought to death . The Pallas is by souldiers guarded round . A great and frequent Senate is assembling . The Consuls and the Priests are making vowes For Caesar's safety . Montanus . Claudius is old Petronius . There have been other wayes to end a Prince Besides old age . But what is that to us ? Come let's away and shew our forwardnesse To joy or mourning as occasion serves . I am prepar'd for both . Montanus .

And so am I .

Otho . Both must be done , if Caesar dye , our greife Must last but till the successor bee known ; And then wee must rejoyce . Petronius .

Tis true .

Otho . But I Shall have true cause of joy if Nero reigne , Exeunt . BRITANNICUS , OCTAVIA , XENOPHON . Britannicus

Shall I not see my father ere hee dy ?

Octavia .

Good Xenophon .

Xenophon . Good Madam pardon mee , Nothing is now so great an enemy To his disease as noise and company . Hee's lately fall'n into a gentle slumber . Deep sleeps his feaver will not let him take . I'll certify your highnesse when hee wakes . And wait upon you . Octavia .

Thankes good Xenophon . Exeunt .

AGRIPPINA . Agrippina . I long to heare what favour Nero findes In the Pretorian campe , how Caesar's death Is by the souldiers and the Senate taken . Enter PALLAS . Welcome my dearest Pallas What's the newes ? Pallas Madam , as good as Jove himselfe could send , No sooner in the campe was Caesar's death Divulgd , but Burrhus enters to his charge , And Nero with him , who by all the cohorts Was presently saluted Emperour . Only some few were silent , and a while Stood still expecting young Britannicus ; But when they saw their expectation Was all in vaine , and none but Nero came , Fearing at last to loose the Donative Which Burrhus promis'd them in Neros name , They joyn'd themselves unto the greater part . Agrippina . Britannicus within the Pallace here Is safe enough for comming forth to day . The Senate have scarse heard of Caesar's death For wee conceal'd it till all things were ready . Pallas . Now in a Princely chariot mounted high Guarded by Burrhus and the souldiers Nero sets forward to the Senate house . But having past the campe , you need not feare The Senate , Madam . Agrippina . Pallas thou wert ever A messenger of lucky newes to mee . A safe contriver of the highest plots , A happy instrument thou hast deserv'd What ere thou hast enioy'd , though thou have tasted That which a Caesar su'd to tast , and bought The world in recompence . Pallas . If ever Pallas Had any fire that could advance his thoughts To high and great exploits , hee kindled it At your caelestiall beauty , as from heaven Prometheus stole that active fire , by which Hee durst himself adventure to create The noblest creature man . What act on earth , What undertaking should he tremble at Whom Agrippinas favours animate ? And what had I been but a peece of earth Cold , dull , and uselesse , had I not been quickn'd