513 ?95 Q?SUMMOflS OF THE KINO f PECKER. 00 CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY GIFT OF Mr. Hollis R. Upson PS 3513 C 295S9" VerS " y Ubrary The surnmons of the kini 3 1924 022 447 076 The original of this book is in the Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://archive.org/details/cu31924022447076 THE SUMMONS OF THE KING A Play BY PHILIP BECKER GOETZ BUFFALO the Mcdowell press MCMXI COYPRIGHT 1911 BY PHILIP BECKBR GOETZ ALL RIGHTS RESERVED NOTE The play deals with the earlier part of the invasion of Italy which King Charles the Eighth of France undertook in the latter half of the year 1494 to gain the throne of Naples. Hear- ing of the King's intention, Piero de Medici, in- secure and unpopular at Florence, surrendered three Tuscan fortresses to win the King's sup- port. The Florentines learnt of this act and promptly banisht Piero, who fled to Venice. At the opening Pisa is subject to Florence, but soon revolts. Before leaving Milan for Pisa, the King has become infatuated with Nuccia, a peasant girl. About her most of the action revolves. PERSONS King Charles the Eighth of France Cardinal St Malo, his spiritual adviser Orsini, a Florentine nobleman of the Medicean party Vincenzo, his son, in love with Nuccia ! servants to Orsini Savonarola, the Dominican, opposed to the Medici Capponi, a Florentine, leader of the people against the Medici friends to Capponi, members of the Signorg Bonsi, Valori, Vespucci, Lucio, a soldier of the Pisan, Soldorato Chamberlain to the King Nuccia, a Milanese girl, known as Lois while mis- tress to King Charles Rabaccio, her uncle Stella, her companion A Pisan French soldiers, courtiers, friars, flower- girls, fruiterers, poet, citizens, watchmen. ACT ONE Scene: Pisa. The Florentine army of escort to King Charles is within the French camp. SCENE ONE A part of the field near the camp. VlNCENZO AND PEZZO VlNCENZO She hath not more scorn for a low-born clout Than lies in the neglect my gifts endure. The chain, the emerald — what avail my pains? I will to Florence fly. Am I a fool, Some jester fed with table's overflow Mid sufferance of weaklings high, who laugh On what they comprehend not? I am born Of honorable blood : it heats and cools At causes other breeds hold light as air. Pezzo What an ungentle destiny is thine, My lord, to own such sickly mastery Of blood! Had I a sire whose name I knew — A name tho common as the earth we tread — Herein I yet should be the victor known, Not let a mere girl with a languid smile Bid me a scorned suitor meet my friends, And hear the hollow rouse crown all the cups Wherein they drench my poor, defeated story. 'Tis thou, not she, who is more worthy tears, And tears of bitter shame! To spare, forsooth, [5] THE SUMMONS No task to win a blossom France hath plucked, And at thy first adventure run away: What a brave heart! Thou art no Florentine. Think not of Florence, thine's a softer soil. Vincenzo Oft have I marked your argument take wing — As nimbly now — and then your passion seize His vantage opportunely with quick taunt Upon my high birth, just to wound my pride. Were I some warring devil with loud boasts Of brawl and wantonness, I were more prized. The languid smile that tempts your merry tongue Shall turn my way, count me a coward else. To them what if I seem an unripe youth, If unto her my love show copeless heavens? Pezzo As vain and shifting as the breathing spring! Think what thy noble sire will say, who sent Thee secret thence to spy upon the world Not dream upon the first two lovely eyes. What but to dry those prodigal tears of youth For lorn Bianca — Vincenzo Silence. Oh, with shame I redden to forget that sudden-spent Delight that filled me when Bianca first I met that night among the Ponte shops. Have you not often marked on moonlit nights How long there stole the silver thru your soul Or ere you lifted eye and saw the orb Unfettered of a cloud possess the sky? And then as if until that hour you ne'er Had guessed her potency — so old, so known — You learn the virgin charm that spells the dark And stirs remotest music? So Bianca. Was it a strange thing that I instant loved [6] OF THE KING And instant would have made her beauty mine To crown with worship of young ritual? Yet now my home heart for Bianca's pale And willing loveliness is no more mine Than lasting is the rose against her lips, Or this is home and yonder tree a booth. Pezzo Softly; thou hast turned broken vow itself To gentle melody. Had not thy sire Been firm, thou wouldst have wed the unhappy lady Thou art most swift to swear was lightly loved. Is honor such a bubble to be danced Upon the pouting waves of a boy's blood? Vincenzo Peace, sir, thy words knock on well-guarded ears: Thy years are mine to borrow in my need, Not thine to hoard. That I do love this maid, Dear Pezzo, deep I know. Pezzo Now for hot oaths! Tell me the certain signs, what portents lead The doubting eyes up to the sovereign star? Vincenzo Mock on as likes thee, still I am unshaken. I will disclose how lovers know their hour. Methinks, apart from her I am not I, Or else an echo of my living self, Some hollow instrument of broken strings. Day-long I wander mid far-memoried dreams Wherein her spirit, ere her face, I found. I never now may pace with running stream But by its magic marge some time we there Have counted grasses, lingered, silent gazed, [7] THE SUMMONS And in some cave mingled a mirrored kiss. Tempest times, too, when lightning threads the heart Of tangled wildwood, bring me the thin touch Of her pale, shuddering hand, asking my shelter. And when a lute I hear from the wide meads Of airy music pluck one after one Bright blossoms, hers are all, so fell they all Adown her loosened hair ages ago Ere love immortal framed him mortal words. Pezzo This is no place for such as thou, Vincenzo : Only the moon's car suits this delicate freight, And only skyey coursing fits this mood. I am an old plain man of waning wit, Yet this inflaming speech hath lighted me A path thru mine o'erwildered memory. I am less old than seasons give me out, The wrinkles of my time are smoothed away And I again am with thee, face to face With dreams that couch in the blue-vaulted youth, Before the task and fret, the strife and grief Banish the starry vision to despair. Nay, I was once a lover — long ago. 'Twas in the days when Milan was at feud With Genoa and I sought fame and folly Against the cunning seamen. One mild night In May, when wild excursions made a prize Of a few huddled huts along the shore, Drunken and rudely jesting, in we burst, Some four of us, upon a frightened group Upon their knees about a father's bed. One was for harrying the maidens there, Another yelled to hale the sick man forth, Another thirsted for a cup the more, And one stood silent at the open door. That man was I; for, kneeling at the bed, And turning pleading eyes upon our rout, [8] OF THE KING If ever God made one like my own mother, There seemed she kneeling, there turned pleading eyes. An instant all grew blurred : those tender girls To me were sudden sisters, for them I Thereon had died to shield from ruffian harm. My sotted brain sank her carousal dregs, And ere they questioned cause, our filthy crew Reeled to a bagnio — I forget the rest. Vincenzo Well? Pezzo Oh, next day I stole away from camp. The man had died and she with hers was left In need and grief. My scanty all was theirs. Thereafter till we pushed up thru the passes I daily with a secret joy gave aid. Vincenzo Good Pezzo, is this all? Pezzo Not all, not all. Vincenzo The mother then was widowed. Pezzo Aye, and grateful. Yet grateful more the wide-eyed, eldest girl, Who found my soldier heart as swiftly as She learnt her own heart, loving wretched me. Vincenzo What of thy pleasant girding on my love? Hath not thy youth been guilty with us, too? How wilt thou teach me skill to quell mine ardor [9] THE SUMMONS When thou hast known the ache one never exiles? In fine, she bade thee glance another where? Pezzo Nay, nay, that had indeed been fortunate; I then had steeled myself against despair Or guessed her tongue a traitor to her soul; But when we parted in the blazing noon, The sun wrought of her hair a gorgeous crown, And I crawled northward with the men — Vincenzo Dear friend! Pezzo At our home-coming the whole shore lay bare. Vincenzo But Florence triumphed in that desolation: Genoa floated barges with no threat. Pezzo Believe, her victory I love, Vincenzo, Yet have I memory of what I know Was certain love. Yet why so idling here When soon the hobbling savior of our fate Will bid us guide him east? Thank God, Piero Need fear no balking of our new support. I would the passions of the people cooled Before thy father fan them with contempt. Vincenzo Why march we with the Frenchmen into Flor- ence? Pezzo youth, youth, the down hangs on thy ques- tion! To have a lady see an angry sire, [10] OF THE KING Whom, if her beauty please, an amorous boy Would beg for grace to marry instantly, Heedless of how our Medici come home Or how the Signory with Charles may prosper. Vincenzo Oh that I had a rapier wit for you! But, missing that, I have a better arm With which were I to strike as oft as you Offend me with your insults, you were dead A thousand several times. Pezzo A slower pace Better befits a noble and a soldier. What think you France intends in Italy? He holds with Ferdinand a high dispute, And forth to Naples o'er the prostrate states Doth bridge a triumph to that distant throne. Our quarrels are of tributary import: And exiled Medici was not born deaf. What, pray, are citizens to endless coffers, To great allies and sly and secret words Dropt seedlike into every inch of ground? Are beggars, tradesmen, drivers of dumb beasts Aught but the chaff for winds of royalty? What would the jealous paupers with their lords? What is their prate of freedom and of right? Have they no grateful mind to those who planned And shaped the glory where they shelter warm And grow and keep their lives and young secure? Vincenzo, I have seen the great abased, The base uplifted by the fetid commons: Their choice is ever for a sweeter thing, Their memory is fleeter than a dream, Their love, I swear, lighter than memory. Were I Piero, they should vainly sue To soil my heel in their unthankful streets. My palaces and all my springs of wealth I would not leave to them, I would raze all [11] THE SUMMONS And hie me to another state to breed A host for vengeance in the years to come, And I would lead my serried insolence Against their thoughtless gates and teach them there How noble dragons spit their terms in blood, Until alarmed they found their liberty An unconsoling name when princes threaten. Vincenzo Now see what sparks these sticks and stones pro- voke! And here comes one. Enter a Pisan Pisan I pray I meet my friends. Pezzo Friends till we fight, sir. (Striking him.) Who are you? Come, tell. Vincenzo (to Pezzo) Be not so rude: we are the guests of Pisa. Pezzo For that I care not half a fig, I itch To fall my hand each day without a blow On something out of Florence. Vincenzo (to Pezzo) I am young, But I am not so far from judgment fled I cannot see thee paid for wanton strokes. Pisan Your pardon, gentlemen. You sure are strange To Pisa? [12] OF THE KING VlNCENZO Florentines and soldiers, sir. Pisan To lead the Frenchman hence? Pezzo (again striking him) The Frenchman? — Dog! Take that and that and that and let them prick Thy poor jade memory we guide a king. PlSAN I will not answer you in kind, rough man, Being a serving-man of Pisa's best, (Whispering) Who tho he be no royal bird, hath yet A wide wing spread to hide a Medici. VlNCENZO Forgive his heat, fellow, and thou, my Pezzo, So wont to give me counsel and reproof, For the dear Mary's grace, make him amends. Some sightless poison of this nightly air Hath sown within thy spirit angry humor. Pisan I am a soldier, too, and hither charged With messages from Florence to a youth Of noble birth but nameless. VlNCENZO Nameless? Pisan Aye. They found the bearer dead outside the gates. The seal was broken and the name o'ergored, And they who read it could not learn who wrote. VlNCENZO Importing what, sir? [13] THE SUMMONS Pezzo Give it me. Pisan Soft, soft, It holds a pleasant parley 'gainst the state Of Florence — no longer Medici's, but free — Which, were't returned unto the Signory, Might lead to treason's end, if Pisa recked What Florence does, for he who wrote forgot Indeed the Florentines are here by grace Not will of Pisa, who hath tossed the yoke. Pezzo What says the king? PlSAN He will not pause his host, But forthwith marches with intention sure. Vincenzo To bring Piero back into his own? Pisan Mark me: no man hath read this King of France. How know you he will prop your banisht lord? What heart hath he who of his ships prepared A rampart on Rapallo's beach, the while Under the thunder of his guns stole out With sword and brand the Swiss, albeit the town Lay on her knees? What answer gave they? What? They made their torch a thing of festival, And every soul an empty sacrifice; The sick out of their beds they dragged and slew; They would not credit men with Christ on lip. Why, think you, flowing and fair promises Will move him more? But now your legates went Hence homeward, with perplexed mind, dis- mayed. [14] OF THE KING None know his thought, to each he riddles gives. Free Florence bids him enter as a friend, While your Piero flatters him from Venice — As if the bribe of Tuscan fortresses, When first he touched our soil, were not enough. Believe me, gentle sirs, I speak not so Out of a rank and dreading hate to Florence: That we in Pisa are no minions more Is fruit of her own vain, divided will. Pezzo Still insolent? Vincenzo (aside) Beware! a Pisan friend May pay us well or ere our men are safe. (Aloud) Who are you, sir? You own a daring speech. Pisan Of Soldorato's house, an old-time friend To the Orsini. Aye, you start at that. Think you your mate had lived to tell another How he insulted Pisa to my face, Had I not known you of delighted honor? Vincenzo Come, come, thou bird of mystery, sing clear! Pisan (looking toward Pezzo) Your hawk is a bad carrier of gifts. Pezzo You dare not say they failed their master's aim. Pisan Nay, yet with such an ill delivery That were I wooed, I'd never owe you thanks. I marvel if so little grace hath won The least rewarding smile. [15] THE SUMMONS VlNCENZO You know of her? Pisan Some whit. VlNCENZO What news of her? She lodges still, Looks from that solemn window on the square, Blesses the dullard street with heavenly eyes? Speak, man, what happy sounds compose her name? What sea-town of the somber north immured The music of long years within its breast Till this pure soul made lovely echoes vie? Pisan (sighing) My mother yester eve despatcht me — me, This very thing of mortal flesh and bone — Unto your lauded lady, with a dish Of our tomatoes dressed with tempting art. She saw them hanging brilliant on a string Against the upper wall within the court. We noted her delighted hands and eyes; Whereon with homely wisdom armed I sped My way obedient, and, bowing low, Proffered the gift. She smiled and, in dumb show, Described the coming taste. But when she ate! brave Vincenzo, had you heard her then Laugh rivulets of checked surprise and joy, Orsini's line had learnt insanity. For when a lovely lady loves to eat, Eating what most she loves, what is a man? A better war against the world were his To wage than 'gainst this human argument. Vincenzo Tush, tush! You are a lower man than low. Pisan No lady foreign-born so honest eats. [16] OF THE KING Pezzo Now hath the Pisan smirched thy firmament, Blasphemed thy throned lady, stirred thine anger; But now when he defamed our native state, My wroth and hasty stroke drew thy sore censure. Say, shall we teach his tongue a lasting quiet? Pisan What need of strife? Our house is friendly still; And were it not, I bid relent your ire. At hand within my call lie hidden close Two hundred archers, Soldorato's own. Be well advised: you shall return in peace. (Shouts heard) Vincenzo What's that? Pezzo Your men surprised or challenging? Pisan What's toward, I know not. Enter Lucio Lucio, what news? Lucio sir, I know not for I saw not all. Pisan But what you saw? Lucio Nights lately grow so dark. 1 have not seen so dark a night as this Since my old jade died hauling leeks and so. Methinks it rains a dun here so I needs [17] THE SUMMONS Must clean my palms a dozen times a night To swear they still are just my own — Pisan Come, man, Delay not, tell us what you saw, what did! Lucio To see not more than I, were less than well, If your hot mind the bit of patience scorns. Pisan Now, Lucio, cease bandying, speak out: You make these Florentines fierce, champing steeds. Lucio Then have I matter for their ears, I vow, Else as they judge it, let them wend away. Vincenzo man, be brief! Lucio Briefly to say, I saw — Pisan A— Lucio crowd of silly necks grow long with wonder. Vincenzo Whereat — Lucio I wondered cranes were never red. Vincenzo Why, Lucio? [18] OF THE KING Lucio In shame for mortal fools. Pisan Well? Lucio Hear them shout! Vincenzo What! is it Medici? Lucio A Medici! Aye, such a one as goes Unshod of foot and bowed, foul with the road. Faw! Naught more noble than the dark-eyed Friar, Who comes again with message for the King. Tonight with short unceremonious word He passes with no proper awe of us Who make the world resound with woe and arms, And coldly asks where he shall see the King, As if at mess I bid you hand my dole. Pisan What then? (Shouts heard) Lucio The vile crowd hails a painted stick, Hangs on his scattered speech with hungry ears. Vincenzo This must be he— the hot firebrand of Florence. Pezzo To whom we are beholden that our chief Is dispossesst and hated of the commons? Vincenzo Let's after. What he wills he never hides. (Exeunt) [19] THE SUMMONS SCENE TWO The King's Pavilion. The same night. King Charles, Cardinal St Malo, Courtiers; Lois, Stella; Chamberlain Chamberlain He will not be denied his audience. King And so declares? Well, we are merry now, Else were his keen demand more stubborn met. Chamberlain Take I thy lofty leave to bid him enter? King Let him approach. Be gone! (Exit Chamberlain) Lois Who is the man? King A friar much in awe at Florence now, Who is no lover of our Medici, And came ambassador to welcome us So long we would abjure the falling cause And hedge no tyrant 'gainst the general weal. When first in Italy our foot we set, Alone of all who spake the friar praised And hailed us the new Cyrus, sent of God. Lois 'Twas he who hailed you Cyrus? [20] OF THE KING King Even he. 'Fore heaven I somehow dread that single soul With single stare and single, quick-stopt speech. Lois Would I might look upon so strange a man! King And shall. He comes. Enter Savonarola with two Brethren Welcome again to Pisa. Savonarola God grant thee wisdom with thy health, French Charles. Lois (aside) Mary forgive me! Whom called this one mother? Stella, so keen an eye, a shape so ugly, Never before this day made groan the earth. Stella (aside) A holy man recks little of his body. I am afraid to dare the searching eyes, And oh! what hungry, starved lips and cheeks! Lois (aside, gaily) I wonder if they ever kissed a woman? King So let us hear. What brings you here again To tempt the dangers of the night-clad camp? Savonarola King Charles, I come to speak with thee alone. (Lois looks appealingly to King) [21] THE SUMMONS King These witnesses we would not so dismiss: If you have secrets, they will hide them safe; And for ourselves, what we intend we publish. Savonarola Then brief my message. Rumor wings report Ye march to Florence for the Medici. King Who speaks that borrowed words from France's lips? Savonarola The embassy announce thou cozenest. King Gave we offence to any in that body? Savonarola I stand not here to spend vain, empty words; I care not what the mode of thy discourse. King We would respect, not anger you; some stay Of further parley would desire of you, Whereby you blame the instrument of God. Savonarola You know the state of Florence, King of France, You know God's hand hath sore oppressed us all, That for our sins we exiled Medici, Who taught our fingers sloth, hatred our hearts. We bade you enter resurrected Florence, You whom in dreams I saw my Father send To scourge the mockers of sweet righteousness And with your tide flood wanton Italy, To lift the base and hurl the mighty headlong. A while you knocked on stubborn-hearing gates [22] OF THE KING Until your armies starved the keys to turn; And when your men marched onward insolent In triumph o'er the people of my blood, My brothers, sisters, friends, I told them how Above the screaming ruin I heard God Cheer Charles of France, the sword of this our land. Now with our godless foe what pact is made That you so answer our ambassadors? We begged your aid to make secure the state: What juggler's word is this you toss to us? "When you arrive, all shall be as you will." Are you a friend to Medici or no? This would I learn or ere I homeward fare. If you are minded fast to fetter us In the reforged chain we late have broken, I counsel memory how swift the wrath Of God descends upon forgetful children. These victories on alien soil to France Are but our sin and weakness, not your strength; Think not in pride to trample and insult Our quick Republic, lest she teach you pain. King You bid me come to Florence, and thereon An embassy prescribes what I may do. A conqueror is not affrighted thus, That subjects show their teeth like ingrate wolves. Savonarola Ware, King of France! Count never Florence sub- ject! The city you abide in owes her tribute. King Mistake not us, good man. We are a friend To Florence, and to Medici — not less. He hath relieved us often: when we ailed, Sent men of physic, and when we defeated [23] THE SUMMONS His countrymen, nobly he greeted us. We will not think his princely manners false, Nor, granted so, would we in kind respond. This will we say, this bear your waiting people: The quarrel 'twixt Piero Medici And his great state is not our own to wage; Withal we cannot be esteemed his foe. Bid Florence ope her gates against our coming. Savonarola Have I, King, walked with these my brethren twain The long way hither, high of heart and trust, To hear these light words born of royal lips? Verily all my dream is vanity: Here first the semblance of my hope shows false. So stunned, I am incapable of wrath. God led thee into Italy to prove The folly of the din and feats of arms. I go, unto the Signory I go; Yet once again I charge thee, think on God. (Exit Savonarola and two Brethren) Lois (excitedly) Call him again! King Wherefore? Lois I must again Behold that face and speak in living speech. King This is a fancy: he will think we yield. Lois I care not — I am strangely moved to this. [24] OF THE KING Stella If he should ask — Lois (wildly) I care not what he asks! Will no one call him? King Tis impossible. Come, lady, blow this fancy out of mind. Would you imperil us? Were we not kind? Lois Oh, when he came, I mocked him in my heart, He was so illy shapen and so starved. King Well? Lois Yet his soul warmed every word he spake. King Mayhap your pious maid hath turned your heart. Lois Or so or so, beg him return! King Tush, nay! None shall gainsay us, none shall after him. In Florence we will answer with our terms. See, woman, that you straightway follow us, Or, by Saint Genevieve, you shall atone. (Exit King with all save Lois and Stella) Stella What would you now? [25] THE SUMMONS Lois I have no way but one, (Slowly) Knocking, knocking on my unshriven soul I hear. She is a girl forgotten long, Pleading again for clean, untroubled hearth And solemn, dreamless sleep and Mary's eyes Unquestioning at morn and stealthy eve. "To lift the base and hurl the mighty headlong," Those were his words, simple and searching words. If this French king be sent to us from God, What thing am I to lure him down to Hell? And if God fated him a byword hence, Why must I fouler smirch his royalty? Stella You cannot flee from him. Lois You fear his force? Stella Aye, and — Lois And what? Say on, be not afraid. Stella You gave yourself. Lois I swear I did not — first. Stella You knew a foreign king could rank bestow, But a soul's honor he would only take. [26] OF THE KING Lois No more. Who can defend what friends will blame? The man I fain had laughed to scorn hath taught Me how I sinned. The story he shall know. They shall not stay me. I must seek him out. Stella They can and will prevent you : it is night. What is a woman 'gainst the guards or rout Of loutish soldiery? You are but mad. Lois The soldiers come from Florence still are here. I need not you; I ask not you to follow: I am in sin secure — worse cannot fall. Were you along, I should be then alarmed. Stella Then take alarm, for with you I will go. Oh, think not I would serve you in your ease To run away at need. Some outward shift With instant art gains us the way he went. Within the hour you meet the Florentine. (Exeunt) [27] THE SUMMONS ACT TWO SCENE ONE A road leading out of Pisa. The same night. Enter Savonarola and his two Brethren First Brother Pray, brother, why this haste? Savonarola What need of rest? So we move on this night, one day is gained. Second Brother Have thought upon your health, or you perforce Must rest within the walls and grieve the people, Bearing no tidings from the expected king. Savonarola They fail who doubt, they win who see, the goal. Tonight the host of Hell cannot prevail. First Brother Hush, heard you voices? Second Brother They seem to follow us. Savonarola Perchance the king repents his godless answer. Second Brother And e'en to call. . [28] OF THE KING First Brother They may be men of sin. Savonarola The tomb is ever tardy, let them come; They will not find a well-fed purse to cut. First Brother Nay, brothers, listen. Darkness throbs appealing. Second Brother Attend we. Savonarola Nay, yet slowly onward move. Face not again obstinate Pisa's guest. Second Brother They hasten toward us. Let them hail us first. {After calling, enter Lois in boy's dress and Stella) Lois Is this the road to Florence? First Brother Aye. Lois We twain, This maid and I, would with you thither wend, In holy wedlock there to join our souls. She willing flies an angry sire who blames Our summer blood and eager promising. I know you will not bid revolt be glad; But continent to Florence would we go And there give you our moving history. Only we crave protection ere you judge. [29] THE SUMMONS Savonarola Follow behind: you lead a woman here. It is unmeet our company be weighed With her whose safe conduct is yours to guard. Follow behind. (Exeunt Savonarola and his two Brethren) Lois Mary, holy mother, Forgive me, for I fear this is thy doom. Methought I had a firm heart for a lie, But I have horror of this lonely road. Stella Fear not for me. Darkness hath kindly arms And doth not always aid the evil thought. Withal, what if we die? Lois Hush, girl, not that, Not that. God will not let me die untimely. Stella Already they have left us. Haste we after. (Exeunt Lois and Stella) Enter Vincenzo and Pezzo Vincenzo Scan close the road. They must have gained the friar. Pezzo Here are the forward footsteps of three men; And see! my boy, come, come, kneel down and kiss. Vincenzo (hurrying) The tell-tale dust is delicately pressed. God in His mercy pardon all the sins Of that dear Pisan. [30] OF THE KING Pezzo And my odious hand That might have struck him down this very night. Vincenzo How was it possible he learned their fraud And sought us out? Pezzo Ere that he reached his house, The knave whose raiment hides thy lady's wiles Straight ran to tell his Pisan darling all — The house, recall, was neighbor where France lay— And she tongue-laden, by a happy chance, Tho late at night met our returning Pisan. Vincenzo That he should running find us — that is strange, Who knew my love for her. Pezzo Think you he likes Us out of Pisa, sparing or luring us? Vincenzo I nothing fear from him — he knows our house. Pezzo I would I trusted so. But see! a light. Vincenzo Too faint — no torch: devils are in the air. Pezzo Come, boy. Upon their track the King may chase. [31] THE SUMMONS VlNCENZO How long hath moonlight helped our baffled eyes? Pezzo But now she crowned the cloudy muniments. VlNCENZO A virgin omen! Mary's mercy, come! (Exeunt Vincenzo and Pezzo) SCENE TWO Another part of the same road near a wood. Lois and Stella Lois A fearsome spot to give a cry, dear Stella. What was that call? Methought it faintly moved Pursuing us, and now our torches die. Stella There! heard you that? Lois Again. Now had we legs! And yet I dread the holy friars, too. Stella We must be very brave. Lois You mean, / must? Stella At least take on brave show, defending both. Enter Vincenzo and Pezzo [32] OF THE KING Pezzo Well, happy pair, a pretty time o' night To walk beneath the moon to court adventure. Vincenzo Peace, brother, let us hear their story. Pezzo Well. (To Vincenzo) Support your part, be bold and merciless. Vincenzo Come, pretty youth, what is your business here? Lois (aside) Sweet Mother, help! Would I were safe — Pezzo Come, speak! Lois (at Stella's urging) We journey h-hence t-to Florence — by your leave. Pezzo Who is this girl? Lois (promptly) My sister. Vincenzo Favored less. Pezzo (to Lois) A lie, fair youth, a lie. Your changing hue Declares you mean to steal and marry her, To walk your troth till, spent for food and rest, You would repent your bargain, seize her portion, And leave her to the wanton Florentines. [33] THE SUMMONS To such a happy aim you must have means And we are bent to have it with no harm. Stella (to Lois) Come, speak the truth. Lois In fine, I spoke deceit. It was our purpose thus to follow safe The three Florentine friars, whom before Us moving, night obscures; and there arrived, To marry, full against our parents' wills. Leave us so much as may secure us food And buy a blessing on our holy vow, And we'll deny you naught of all you seek. Pezzo A second lie, my boy, and well invented. Lois (to Vincenzo) You, sir, have kinder eyes, have you no pity? Vincenzo What would you have me do? Lois Save us to Florence. Vincenzo How know you we be not from Charles the King To bring the guilty fugitives to Pisa? Lois (to Stella) We are undone. Stella (to Lois) Tell now the very truth. Pezzo And I wot well the King's hot wrath on you. [34] OF THE KING Lois Then you will stay your hand until you hear. If you are of his court, as you give out — Albeit I think not so — I might command Where now I beg. His consort I, thus clad, Spelled by the urging of the holy man, Ambassador from Florence, from Pisa flee. France hath no force to keep me from my will, Nor would reward you well returning hence To him my body lifeless by my deed — The which to prove you guiltless of would tax Heads better than you wear. I say, make way. (They move to go) Vincenzo Stay! Pezzo Nay, but let them go. Vincenzo Pezzo, desist. Ladies, you err to judge us hireling men. We both are men of Florence, soldiers both, And hearing of your purposed traveling, We after hurried instant in your aid. That I may better prove the truth thereof, I beg you take this ring against your coming: In antique frame it holds a beryl-stone Of much import and omen to who wears, Tested to happy ends by many a son. For you must needs find food and shelter there — The holy friar may not be your host, And should we plan to part, as most befits, Since you shall ride by horses that we wait, You shall at ease still follow him as guide. [35] THE SUMMONS Lois Such gentle ends from such beginnings, sir? I fain would know to whom so deep my thanks As never can be tongued, within me must Be bosomed. Here amends so gallant lie That other cause than simple thought moves you. Why pause you? Vincenzo I — I know not, lady, I Will follow at a distance, fear no peril. My friend will hither lead the horses when We sight them. You are safe. Mayhap again Tomorrow we shall bolder be to speak And more observe. So, by your leave — good night! Come, come. (Exeunt Vincenzo and Pezzo) Stella Who may they be? Lois They will return. [36] OF THE KING AC T THREE SCENE ONE A Street in Florence. Several days after Act Two. Crowds gather to witness the entry of King Charles and his army. First Citizen Now hail unto the King of France! Second Citizen Hail, Charles! Enter King Charles, Courtiers mounted, army following. A Poor Woman Hail, thou defender of the dear republic. A Poet (to the woman) I prithee tell me which is doubtless he, I have composed — A Flower Girl (raps the Poet on the head) Ow! Off my foot! And if Your ode be half so heavy and so awkward, The King will stop your mouth, thinking you jest. A Fruiterer fig of all my fathers, that a king? He looks a mother feared to let him see The sun, twist-legged, half -browed, goggling ape, His face a-wrinkled like a withered apple. His wet-nurse was a lemon, I'll be sworn. [37] THE SUMMONS Third Citizen Can our salvation hang upon those eyes? Flower Girl Roses a-plenty, here! buy roses? Hawker of Sweets Sweets? A spicy cake, a dainty for your darling. Say, will you see the horses how they deck Them o'er, these Frenchmen with their tricks and gews? Why, we are fools beside these ways of France. Enter Lois and Vincenzo. The King passes on, but not without noting Lois. Lois Think you he marked and knew me who I am? Vincenzo No, no; and if he saw, my company With you would bid him deep distrust his eye. Lois A face he ever knew he ne'er forgets; If he beheld me, he remembered me, If he remembers me, with Florence friend I am not safe e'en if the Friar promise. See how the people flock behind a King! Vincenzo But tell me, you are still in comfort sure? Lois Think not I speak to you an ingrate word : Almost upon their hands Pezzo and his Uphold me, spare, relieve me; yet I know How swift a change will fall when your proud father [38] OF THE KING Learns this unhappy fancy of his son, Who loves a woman as impossible Of hope as any driven curse from heaven. One thing, Vincenzo, you shall say for me When question knocks for answer, that I never — No, Mary be my witness! — never lured You on to this. I am not that — not false. Vincenzo Rest we upon the step. Even the priests Have eyes away from God upon high France And at this distance we can hear the shouts. How men could love so foul and strange a sight I cannot guess. Be sure our house is true To Medici and so to France while true. Within our hope he comes to spite the friar And to restore our noble friend; but I Put not much heart on France's love to him. Tonight my father means to meet the king And sound his purpose on the banishment. I would observe so strange a being, hear Him talk, conclude him friend or courtly tongued. Lois He will not juggle any word he says, But after he will gloze the soul he bodied With smooth, obscuring phrase, refuting all You thought he said. Hard pressed, importuned to't, He turns your mildest friend from hostile eyes. Vincenzo Who saddened you with all this world-old wis- dom? Lois Youth greys in brief apprenticeship to sin And Latin is the general tomb of joy, Which, when I learned with quick accomplish- ment [39] THE SUMMONS While yet a girl, I little thought the dim, Premonitory cadences my tongue Should sound with perilous pleasing of a king. Vincenzo Why ever harp upon that somber string? Have I not known, yet tell you o'er and o'er How I do love you warmly as that hour Of all unflowered hours I first beheld Your hasting eyes that blazed their blessed prints Across my waiting, wildered, marveling heart? What would you have me do that you shall be Enthralled by glory as by beauty I? (Lower) Would his death blot the past? Speak, is it that? Lois No, no, no, no! That were a futile thing. No violent release, no crested crime Must free me now; for there is writ in heaven A line my prayers and blinding tears will fail To purge, if Mary be not touched: to her I must devote the life I yet am given. The world must be a stranger to my thought. Oh, how I see it all: my brain must know No fair untroubled rest save unto God; I must walk unafraid, strong with contempt For gifts life brings with fresh and rosy hands. You are not still so young that you forget How some ways that we turn we never trace Again, some are so starred with purity And hope, rapture and upward certainty; And other some so hooded with the hours We would, but never may, recall and change. I was a singing girl of Milan, I, Who careless charmed the ears of France's king; And when they said the king, the king, the king, Would thank me with a public kiss, men laughed That I stood hesitant, and called me fool. Thus it befell. And then my uncle, where [40] OF THE KING Unmothered and unfathered I had lodged, Contrived and bargained with the Cardinal To sell me, soul and body, unto France. At first they told me I was queen by name And right; they whispered how his former queen Died ere he ventured south. By hollow rites And solemn make-believe they hid the truth, Which, when I saw, turned gruesome horror all, A thing that wears our outward face and habit But hides in every nook of its dark heart A stagnant plague-pool, spewing poison out! I fell upon the bed and cried to Christ, The clean, white issue of a virgin womb, To slay me on that altar where I lay, Whereto they led me as a beast to death, A death made quick with every conscious throb. God shut his ears and bade his Church be still. And then the cynic world taught me the laugh Of one who sins and recks not, whom men fear. The singing, low-born thing of Milan flesh, I had a king my slave, drew worshipers Bred of the highest loins of victor France. Vincenzo You loved your sin? Lois Nay, rather gloried while My soul lay in a drunken wilderness, Until that night in Pisa on the heels Of wanton jest anent his haggard show, I felt Savonarola wake my life With fire of simple truth and strength sincere. Vincenzo What were the words, the invitation strange? Lois I know not; all grew chilling mist, and shrill Flew startling whispers thru the emptied halls [41] THE SUMMONS Of my dead self and sense. I closed mine eyes; Still urged the panic call of alien music, Sweeping with heavenly mercy all my past. (Rising) Vincenzo, all I ever hope to be I vowed to render gracious to God's use, Who sent that hallowed priest afoot from Flor- ence To menace France and call my soul from death When most I needed counsel, help, and hope. Vincenzo And came not, too, my love to help thee, Lois? Lois Name me no longer Lois, that is gone: Call me but Nuccia, Milan knew me so; I then may think you friend and prize your wish — But for the rest — Vincenzo Remember how I love. I loved you when you sinned, yet not your sin. I love you what you are, a woman not Untainted but withal still uncorrupt. Bear witness, God, how if I loved her then, Unheeding her enforced life, much more I love her when she turns her soul to Thee. The final word that buds or blights my life At least delay. Lois For peace my heart is hungry. The world hath taken what alone God gives. Vincenzo, think. I seek no balm, no ease: Thorny the crown and rough the heavenward way, The difficult and bitter penance wine My lips shall welcome with a nuptial kiss, [42] OF THE KING And all my vigils with my clement groom Shall teach me how to wait and yearn for death. Vincenzo I will not yield you so. You are beset With cruel memories that murder judgment. You say that you will dearly prize my love. How? Mewed and cloistered from my sight and call? Think you my love is but a season's fancy, Born of the gala glancing at a festa? The roots of this day's flowering lay below The birth of Milan, ere up bubbled sea Or rose my own wood-crowned Fiesole. Long-after ages prophesied and brought Us forth, in different cities bred us each; From wonted haunts afar in a strange camp We meet and gaze and one before the other Divines the lore that none but twain may read. Is this a small thing for the will of one So lightly to dismiss? Of destiny Are we such master arbiters that we May counsel what the stars may spell for us? The passion I have caught beholding you Is not a libertine's for light o' heart, The swift persuasion of the ignoble pulse — No, no, I have you in my tranquil thought My wedded wife, the mother of" my children. As for the solemn sound from honor's belfry, The body cannot sin against the will. I care not for what accident befell — France has no import, owns no witless slave: Illusion reigned, but now is dispossesst. I come to lead you back to life thru love; I challenge you your penitent design, Nor will believe that there aloof from all You swifter rise to God than here with me Taking the solace of a duteous wife. Are you afraid? Love bids you dare their word [43] THE SUMMONS As once you dreaded not their whispered guess: Mine is the harder but the nobler path. Follow it, Nuccia; trust me, try my way. Lois In my first cloister, blind, I should have died Nor ever looked upon the earth and sun. My life has been a death, now death were life. I am afraid to trust this waking music, This dear unlidding of incredible light. There is a chill of fever as I hope, Resolve and change, like a poor, shallow pool, Subject to any sky, abject to airs. Vincenzo, I am not your molded dream, Born of the prayers of constant-hearted youth And nourished with its very breath of hope, Fair thru the willing blindness of desire And dowered with mysterious rewards The eyes of loveliness so vainly promise. I am a woman overwise perforce; I can foresee, as if this were my hour's Authentic guess, the never-staying end, The bruising hand of time upon our wills. God first is just, then merciful and mild, And when, tho innocent, we children sin, He stirs the brackish cup of conscience up And stings the federate lips of guilt with pain. Yet would I not one instant grieve your soul, Withholding what I know is worthless, cheap; I will not obstinate mere praises here, But vow you truly, if God will it so, Yours will I be in union honorable. My hand. (They stand silent and tearful. Exeunt as the chattering crowds return, led by the burly Fruit- erer) Fruiterer Three times as many more, they say, come later. [44] OF THE KING Flower- Girl A gallant lad of the King's very own Caught me my rose and waved me what a kiss! Poet What sturdy men, what stout, bright enginery! Those huge balls were of iron, not of stone. And did you mark the heavy-gaited guns? I would not be the walls those dragons belch Their rage upon. Boy Some carried pretty arms Like to our bows but with the cord across. Hawker Why, there are thousands, each with finery Enough to scare my oven for a year. Poor Woman (running) Our Julietta's bairn is come untimely! A-seeing of the King, and this and that, The shouts, th' array, the noble knights, the heat, And Mary only knows what else, she cries, "I choke! Some air! Give me an arm or prop To stay me!" So they carried her in haste, And how they sweat! Sweet Jesu sweat not more Within the garden where he prayed for us — I say they carried her to Mazzo's booth. Who goes with me? {Exeunt some) Fruiterer A luckless birthday sure! It was the ugly king Julietta saw: That pumpkin-head would drive a bitch to whelp. First citizen And came with lance straight on and open sword. [45] THE SUMMONS Second Citizen Which obligates by law we are o'erwhelmed. First citizen O'erwhelmed I know not, but o'er Vecchio They came so proud, it was a scurvy boast. Second Citizen And yet you hailed him. First citizen What? Offend the rabble, The riff-raff, scum, and idle ne'er-do-wells By shutting teeth upon a rampant tongue? Second Citizen Had you kept peace, I had not greeted him. Fruiterer {fiercely and striking him) An had you not, it had been close observed, You marked for traitor, seized and dragged and burnt Within the Square before the clapping mob. And had your lordly master been o'erheard To say what I have heard him say but now, The Frenchmen would have flayed him — on my oath! (Nods of approval) Flower- Girl Thank ye the stars ye shouted as ye did! Both Citizens We do, we thank — Hawker Away! Both Citizens Hail, King of France! [46] OF THE KING ACT FOUR SCENE ONE Palace of the Orsini. Late the same night. King of France, Orsini, and Courtiers King You are a friend to Medici? Orsini I am. King So much he says, that we will credit him. We have no seated hatred 'gainst the state They would uprear on common blocks and call With majesty, Republic; but, methinks, The counselors forget that Florence stands Our subject, is not free to vaunt her will. Orsini Your Majesty withal were well bestead To blow no prideful spark to wanton flame. King Of that anon. We would not counterfeit A fear we never feel, nor cheat a hazard. Briefly to speak, we mean to watch them build: We haste not hence impatient aye of arms And conquest; we have years and guns and force To bring all Italy unto our will. Orsini Enough: you come to flout me by design Within my walls before your servitors. [47] THE SUMMONS King, I would have you know Orsini's line Was high before your own or Medici's! I ask, I grant no favor; you are wrong To think he conquers us who holds our land! Whether the Medici come to his own Or be withholden, as I am his friend I joy or grieve, but shed no servile tear To win your yielding, mitigate your threat. Your hosts, they say, are yet not all arrived: Then picture fiftyf old the strength, and all Arm equally, you shall not bend or break The soul that long has breathed this Tuscan air! King There speaks a nobleman, good Cardinal. We are not nice in lines of ancient birth, We are a fresher stock, a later thought, Than flourishes in the warm South. Ourselves Must laugh that in these days you put your trust In aught but strength of arms; but, since you prize Piero Medici, we are prepared Out of our marvel and our will to you, To stand him Regent in our stead, no less In power than yourself would have us warrant. Orsini Upon what terms? Kings never freely give. Cardinal St Malo Orsini, think how ill accords your tone With this the King hath promised; besides I of the holy Church support his cause: We both are native in the chosen faith. Orsini Well know I that, serenest Cardinal; But many like myself of house and power Do marvel how great Alexander seats [48] OF THE KING Him calm upon his throne at Rome while here The commons make such head against us all, Daily inflamed by that same church they fed Who are abandoned now. Cardinal St Malo It grieves us more Than I have words to show my broken heart That here the wanton Fra o'ertops the tallest, That him they call ambassador of hope Who so assails the precinct of the saints, Whose scourging tongue spares none, but takes delight In overturning what we toil to rear. Surely, Orsini, doth it move me, too, His Majesty so curiously gives heed To him as peer to us, as peer to us! The hour is ripe to quell this springing peril. Orsini Ofttimes of rulers high and tyrannous A dear man to the commons finds the ear Obsequious; and so they win the praise Of clemency and fairness tho they show Them slaves to wilfulness and whim. The King Must know this is a keen and crack-brained knave By accident here set, a torch amid The thick chaff in an aged granary. To see him is to marvel at men's folly, To hear him patient out, to play the fool. King You are but witness to your policy: His silence would spread calm among the people And bring them to your mastery. The Pope Is wise, his churchly throne is universal, His blessing hands are weighted for all men, And to the Roman heart all others yearn. I twice have heard Savonarola speak, Once among brothers, once alone at night [49] THE SUMMONS On secret mission come, to beg our aid Against the robber nobles of your state. Mere words, mere cunning of the will, mere craft Array not such a host upon his side And keep them single for the cause of right. In him I see some sentinel or saint, No dreamer, no imaginer of woe; His menace is of God, his call a challenge. Nathless, I mean to stablish here secure Piero, as I promised, but of you, Orsini, I demand a solemn oath You bring and give at once a maid as hostage, Alive or dead, a Milanese I name. Orsini A small demand to buy so large a boon. Alive she suffers your revenge, and dead — What then? A silent foe? King You promise it? Orsini I must desire her name, your Majesty. King A common maid of Milan, Lois named. Orsini And you would have me send to Milan hence? King She is in Florence. Orsini You have seen her, then? King She lodges with a servant of your house. [50] OF THE KING Orsini Ho, Ceppi! Enter Ceppi Seek and bid Vincenzo come. Ceppi Tis done, Signoro. (Exit Ceppi) Orsini Who is he, I pray? Cardinal St Malo (as the King turns to him.) A man mysterious, Pezzo his name. Orsini And she you seek — what is her grave offence That I must find and punish her with death? King She plots against us who have friended her. Orsini For this how am I bid to yield account? King She lodges with your servant. Cardinal St Malo Of a sooth, Orsini, graver fault no law admits. Orsini I am well satisfied and see my debt. Here comes my son. Enter Vincenzo Your Majesty — my son. Vincenzo bows to the King, who looks amused. [51] THE SUMMONS Orsini Vincenzo, I have learned the King of France Here stands in peril of his very life, And she who seeks his life, a common maid, A Milanese, is lodged with our own Pezzo. His Majesty would have her hither led To search the causes of her treasonry Or haply be assured she is no more. Vincenzo This is impossible. King Your father speaks. And with him speak the Medici and France. Orsini I know not why you instantly rebel. Needs there my harsh command to drive you to it Or will you wiselier bethink who asks? Vincenzo Nothing can shake me from my fixt resolve: The Milanese I will not hither lead Nor will I helpless see her rudely touched. (Bells are heard) King Then let this boy, Orsini, be at ease. Send men to Pezzo, seize her in my name. Orsini At once. . . .Ceppi, I say! Vincenzo Father, what right Hath Charles of France to rob your servant's house? Am I not something here? Have I no claim Upon your mind or heart? [52] OF THE KING Orsini You do forget: I bade my son bring her into my presence. Vincenzo 'Tis you forget: I had a mother, too; Princely her blood, equally swims with yours Here in my veins. Were she alive, with me She'd cry, "Why just this woman?" (Bells and shouts) Orsini Wherefore not? She is no Florentine, she comes from Milan; We lose no blood, she is a trivial price To pay for Medici — Vincenzo A price, father? At last Orsini's name and purse are one! It is the Medici she buys for you? A human soul passed like a filthy coin From rakish palm to palm as in a mart! Have you no shame? You would destroy her thus? King She is my property. Vincenzo Nay, hear me speak. I tell you that I love her — so, she's mine, Mine by the ruddy tribute of dear vows Since me she also loves. Her I will wed And honor her as wife. (Bells... Cries of "Pallet") Orsini Less passion, son. I am a stranger to your sudden vows, [53] THE SUMMONS VlNCENZO father, hear me. None has thralled me so; But only she seems beautiful and worthy Of worship, tho she be of lowly birth. King (coolly) And leman of my choice. Orsini You flout me, King? King Nay, boys have dreams — 'tis kings wear waking crowns. (Bells increase. Cries of "Pallet Pallet") Orsini Son, know you this forsooth? VlNCENZO What was, is not. Orsini Thou odious destroyer of this line! But now didst hold the name of mother there On that same threshold where this rankness stood? There is no more to say. Herein persist And I will never know thee more my son. VlNCENZO Father — Orsini You know me and you heard me judge. 1 bid you aid them hale the strumpet hither. VlNCENZO May God remember thee in His good time! Again I say I will not. Glory of house [54] OF THE KING Nor France can force me to this foul design. For Medici you have forget your son, For Medici you would sell all the state. It means naught what the woman was, when I, Your son, find her thought-pure and true of soul, And swear I love her so I count death cheap To save her from the hands corrupt of France. You shall not have her! Free is Florence, free! The gold of Medici, the might of France, The craft of you, my sire and princes all, Shall not prevail. A human girdle guards This palace where you plan old slavery; But even as I came the rumor flew, The secret is on every beggar's tongue, The warning cries are — hear them! — "Palle! Palle!" And every belfry clamors from the sting And bitter thought of Medici restored. Unless you swift bethink you calm the crowd, King Charles will nevermore behold his France! (Cries increase. King and others stand trans- fixt) Come, speak, I go. What shall I feed them with? What is your answer? Medici or freedom? (Pause) King Go. Bid them hush their bells. The King would sleep. [55] THE SUMMONS ACT FIVE SCENE ONE The King before the Signory. The next day. King, Cardinal St Malo, Courtiers; Capponi, Vespucci, Bonsi, Valori, and other Florentines Valori Your Majesty has learned how Milan shakes Her yoke — how Ludovico is the master? Cardinal St Malo He hath been so possesst; that Pisa, too, Hath risen 'gainst your state, he must regard But proof how woful was their course who ban- isht The Medici or ere a better found. Yet is his counsel one of clement peace, In sign whereof he hath despatcht to Pisa A gallant force to hold the rebels leal To Florence out of love he bears you all. Vespucci 'Tis well we find his friendly will to us, Else were it hard to check from wrong the plebs: They have not yet forgotten Swiss excess. We must assure them from all arrogance. Cardinal St Malo Untimely themes become us not, good sir. Vespucci God keep you of that mind till we have done. [56] OF THE KING Cardinal St Malo You have our promise to retrench our stay And soon advance us southward unto Rome. With Pisa bound to us, and so to you, What greater warranty that we are just? Vespucci I question not, I simply hope, else would Our own Marzocco by the angered hands Of citizens against our trusted power Soon measure every foot of Arno's depth. King And there lies now, his lily-shield defiled. But truce to threats! We are not come to aim And shoot the windy missiles of the mouth, But to define, conclude, and keep a treaty. Your wisest man is silent. Speak, Capponi, Is all agreed and written that we sign? Capponi All has been noted and agreed; but one Included title has not been full sounded. The Signory doth grant and herewith call The King of France Defender and Protector Of Florence and her new-born Liberty, And votes the King the florins he demands. 'Tis well; yet would I learn from living lips, With these our witnesses, to hear your vow You are no friend to Medici, nor aim To arm and bolden him, when you are forth, To steal within our gates and seize again The sovereignty whereof he's dispossesst. King Is this, Capponi, what the silence nursed? Have we not given pledge, nay, more than pledge? Take you no earnest from our acts, but we Must hunted be with aye-distrusting eyes [57] THE SUMMONS And gliding treachery? Do you so deal With sister states when hand and seal are passed? If so it be, at Pisa's eager shift And Milan's hate I take small wonderment. For all your Signory, more than is writ We will not bend us, masters as we stand, To calm for aye the Medicean string. To judge you have our deeds. We speak not fur- ther. Capponi We own us no less masters than the King: We are the peers not vassals of your might; We ratify not tolerate your counsel. King What of the garrisons we have despatcht From Pisa hither, are they ours or yours? Can we not at a signal start them out? Savonarola (before unobserved, stepping forward) But will not, King. (Pause) King. What, friar, a councilor? Cardinal St Malo (aside to King) Fear not, count on the nobles not the mob. Savonarola I speak for stricken souls where'er they lodge. King How will you stand against us, question right To teach the Signory a quiet tongue? Wherefore may we not order at our will? [58] OF THE KING Savonarola God watches you : His eyelids know not rest. King You hailed us at our coming, God's anointed, Elect to save the remnant of your people. Why veer you so? Savonarola Because you lightly hold And execute the purpose of your coming; Because the Medici with money bribes You stay your hand against his waning hope; Because you promise what you cannot grant: Aid to the state, to Medici a throne. Briefly you conquer, but the Lord is wroth: Disaster travels with you and disease. I see your hungry hosts go mountainward With pennon stained and clouded enginery; I see your eager face from Naples turn; Your heart breeds panic and your hands are sick. As heaven chose you in this mighty fray, Heaven will curse the king of broken word. Cardinal St Malo (to King) How long will France give ear? King We are prepared To step no further, but withhold our seal. France yet is new to menaces on kings, And keeps his counsel undismayed by this Ungrateful body, brave by sufferance. 'Tis you, Capponi, who have stirred this brew And bid me quaff the cup thus publicly. The friar I forgive, I think him true; And yet, I swear, no record shall appear For or against the exiled Medici. [59] THE SUMMONS Capponi (passionately) We will not hear you more: you are not just. We have no proof you truckle not with him, The common foe and pest of this republic. What is the parchment but a gaudy cheat, If you thus boldly mention not our foe? Have it unsigned, 'tis yours — in fragments thus! (Tears it and flings it at the King) Cardinal St Malo You have o'erstept the bound of arrogance. Savonarola Capponi, I must praise against my will Our foe: the devil hath bereft thy mind. This meeting is for those who trust their lives That we will honorably seek their good Nor by inflamed anger. Capponi I am weary Of waiting till the double King of France Display a single aim. Valori Why are we laggard? Tried troops we have, the commons favor arms, Our courage steeled against these braying guns. Let us conclude the forage of the horde Who eat our fields, corrupt our citizens, And, mocking, chalk our houses, lance on hip. King Words, men, words! Why repeat the empty boasts? You fight with a divided host, the nobles [60] OF THE KING So ill-disposed they will not lift a hand, The commons venal, moment friends to freedom With wills that shift with every deepening eve. Confirm your vaunt! In fine, we here proclaim If this assembly fail to consummate Agreement to our royal will and arms, Then we will sound our trumpets! Gapponi Trumpets, King? Then we will sound our bells. (Long pause and great uproar. Enter unobserved, Rabaccio.) Valori (to Capponi) Oh, speak the word! • (Pause) Savonarola I would not hold myself a man of peace Unto dishonor's edge, but all this scene Seems acted by capricious, pouting children. Here stands the King of France from royal pride Not to be moved to write a word exacted, While there Capponi, puffed with sudden power, Imperils Florence and her liberty With insult to her plighted friend who aims, I certain think, no treachery on us. I spare not either side; it is a mock That fate so large from hands so small depends. Such ribaldry with offices of God Ye both shall dear abide. Bonsi My gracious lords, There is much wisdom in the friar's words. His deeds and thought no dark, suspicious brow Can shade to shame, but out of general heart He bids us put aside unworthy chiding [61] THE SUMMONS And summons both to concord. Let none deem I yield my pride who counsel courtesy And milder modes: the Bonsi can be hard And brave at dangerous need, you all allow. Valori, curb thy captain's itch to plant A spear or prick the liver of a Frenchman; And you, Capponi, prop of public weal, Sway with the wind, nor fear you bend to fall. Cardinal St Malo Were I the King, I should not tarry long For further parley, but exalt our pennons And give their perilous wings unto the air Against your conquered and divided land. Such bruit my guns would spread as would make bow Your tufted pines and thrill your mountain-tops. King Such words, good Cardinal, flying unquenched Might start a conflagration far and wide; Therefore be pleased to lodge th' unhappy thought I still am king and still have much to do Before again I see my vineyards smile And know my subjects press the bellied grape. Capponi, we are gentle-humored, mark! And if it please you and the solemn council That Medici, my friend, be named and writ The foe of Florence, be it as you will, We will contend no further. Fate is loud Against mine ears and stirs our trumpet's drowse On to imperial Rome and Christ's anointed. There when the holy hands have touched our head With blessed certainty, our chief emprise We will set on — to win the throne of Naples. Meantime let secretaries new indite An instrument comporting with your wish, Then send it with your strictest councilors [62] OF THE KING After us where we lodge; before noontide Tomorrow with our sign and seal you hold Against our deed our pledge and warranty. Come, Cardinal, we need your cooling prayers To soothe the cheeks of this too fevered day, Lest uncommended at God's garden-gate Of soft, unhasting dreams we knock denied. So take we leave, well-wishing all. Good night. (Exeunt King and Courtiers, the Cardinal look- ing darkly at Savonarola.) Savonarola Before I go, I beg you entertain Not too triumphant hearts. Beyond lies much. The warrant of the King may doubtless be, But mind, Capponi, let the bells be guard, Lest France put motley on our belfrymen. (Exit) Valori Ever a sting he thrusts; yet peace advised. Bonsi Methinks we win. The King regards a threat. Vespucci But who will meet him with the articles? Capponi Myself, Valori, Bonsi, and — the Friar. Valori Then let Vespucci go for me. Capponi Granted. And so for all who thus their country love That when a private thought or hate appears, Drop down their shield and weapons on the field. [63] THE SUMMONS Valori Oh, I will go. Capponi No, no, you will not go; You will observe at home. Bonsi Oh, have him come. Capponi Peace, Bonsi. If Valori is offended, We give him time to heal his aching rancor. Yet let us home together. All Aye, together. (Exeunt. Watchmen come forward.) First Watchman The lamps were well-nigh spent. Second Watchman 'Twas heavy talk. First Watchman I would not fear a king like him of France For all the cannons and the brass he owns. Second Watchman Who was it tore the paper in his face? First Watchman Capponi is his name, a common man, In youth, a rogue. How when to age they grow They fain forget the nuts and fruit they stole. (Noise) Second Watchman What's that? [64] OF THE KING First Watchman What? Second Watchman That. Heard you no noise? Methinks — First Watchman Something lies stretched upon that bench. Second Watchman Where— where? First Watchman There! See? Second Watchman Shall — shall we dare accost? First Watchman The doors Are not yet locked, I'll go for instant aid. Second Watchman And leave me? Jesu, see! he moves. First Watchman He slept, You roused him, fool! Second Watchman Oh, talk not so, this hour May be our last — then be we friends in death. First Watchman We must be bolder. Come, what make you here? Are you of Florence and you dare to keep — Rabaccio What make I here, thou antic, paper face? I make dead men, and so will make of you, If you deny me message to the King. [65] THE SUMMONS First Watchman He is no longer here, but gone to lodge Where dwelt the Medici in times of peace. Rabaccio Before he sleeps my message must be heard. Conduct me thither by your faith in God, Your love to Florence, and your very lives. First Watchman We both will go and see you safe bestowed. Second Watchman (as they go out) You are from Venice, sir? Rabaccio No, out of Milan. {They are heard talking as they lock the doors from the outside.) SCENE TWO Near the Rubaconte Bridge. Moonlight. The next evening. Rabaccio A good blade alway finds a use for 'ts edge. Scarce had I told the King how Milan lay Subject to Ludovico by a trick And softly questioned his commandment thither, In hope I made one of a gallant troop To humble Moro, whom I hate — but nay! Outwhips his Majesty a new reply, Denies me rest but bids to intercept The lovelorn young Orsini, who this night Would steal a lady of unworthy birth. How many eyes e'en in a foreign camp May royalty possess! How many hands — Far from the waiting brain — for him are busy. [66] OF THE KING But had the King enjoined my swift return, I still had tarried till I had report How Nuccia fares, how chains her captive lover. Doubtless my barren purse had pregnant grown; From her now lofty state a rich despatch Away for hungry kin were cheaply bought. This business done, I mean to find her out: At least an envious rumor of her days And gorgeous nights I must to Milan bring, A tickle-tongue for gossips and the stews. But soft! a woman, veiled and stealthy-stepping: A moment's hiding ere I spring surprise. (Hides in deep shadows) Enter Nuccia Too early. How the moon spells all the ways; The water and the trees, the bridge, the air, All ghostly. Calmly ride the clouds the sky, Blameless, fearless of scanning stars. I fain Had longer waited but I somehow feared; Almost I knew not when I slipped away, Drawn like a thread of water to the sea. A-haste I seemed untouching heavy earth, So love and the dear dream impelled me forth. Yet now he is not here, I find my soul Hath moored far-traveled ships importing dread. Hold, something shapes and moves — Vincenzo, ho! Babaccio Fair one, Vincenzo is not yet at hand. Be not afraid, I have no ill intent. Nuccia (aside) Methinks he looks an older man than harms. Babaccio Turn not the comely face away. (Seizes her) [67] THE SUMMONS Nuccia Release Thy fierce hand, ruffian, or — (Tries to stab him) Rabaccio {aside, as he strikes the dagger out of her hand) My God, 'tis Nuccia! Nuccia What mean you? Rabaccio Come, my child, behold me close. Nuccia (covering her face in violent horror) Rabaccio! Vincenzo, where art thou? Rabaccio Attempt no folly, briefly learn your fate: Orsini will not taint his noble blood With a son's fancy for a faithless wench. This instant living you will yield to France Or from yon bridge I drop your body dead. Your answer! Nuccia Uncle, I entreat you, think! One fatal day I trusted all to you; What did you then, you, brother to my mother? You made me merchandise and for a price You sold me to the King of France! Rabaccio You lie! Nuccia I lie not, I know all. The barter ran, A common jest, among foul-mouthed harlots. [68] OF THE KING You said I should be queen, and so I was — A cozened quean, but kin to you, my uncle, And once the one babe your dead sister bare. (Aside) Will he ne'er come? (Aloud) Another fatal day, A second time you come: what price this time? How much will buy you now? I'll give you more — Rabaccio Why do I listen? Tush! Weary of France, You have enticed a noble Florentine To your embrace. You are a stain on all Your kin; your father died a broken man; I mean to end it here: you shall not twice Deceive the King of France. (Seizes her) Nuccia Vincenzo, help! Have mercy, uncle! Give me space to pray. Rabaccio The need I question not — your craft is plain: Tell Mary face to face who cozened you! (Stabs her) Enter Vincenzo Who spake my name? Nuccia (faintly) Vincenzo? Vincenzo Where are you? Nuccia Hard by the bank. Let not — Vincenzo Who runs there? [69] THE SUMMONS Nuccia After! (Vincenzo parries a thrust from Rabaccio, who, after a struggle, falls and dies) They fight, may God forgive my lingering. Who fell? Vincenzo, speak. Vincenzo 'Twas he. Nuccia God reigns. Vincenzo What heavy woe is here? Whose hand? Nuccia My uncle — From Milan hither — met me by design — Vincenzo My love, you are too weak to frame the words. You soon will mend; have courage, Nuccia, cour- age. Nuccia We cannot cheat our fate, nor he nor I. Vincenzo Fate is not ever hopeless, ever dark. Nuccia He made dispute, and urged I stained your house. Vincenzo (aside) My father's hand? Nuccia And faithless, too, to France. [70] OF THE KING Vincenzo (aside) Mayhap the King. [Goes to Rabaccio. Aloud) Cold, cold, and has not moved. Tis well, else Milan, aye, all Italy Were small to hold your uncle from my reach. Nuccia No time for hate. Vincenzo Nay, for thou art to live. Nuccia Not that, but I will never leave thy soul. Vincenzo No more. I'll bind thy wound and bring thee safe Across the bridge, where Pezzo mild with skill Will soon assuage the pain and mount us swift Upon our steed straight for Fiesole. There in a wooded, sheltered, dear retreat Now dwells my aged nurse, a sweet- voiced crone, Who waits for us with warring fear and joy : Before the dead stars fall in glorious tombs, I shall halloo an old-time, boyhood catch, And she will hear and cry "Vincenzo's come!" And France and sin shall be forgotten clean, His Naples yet unwon, and I shall hear Echoed among the fearless, fragrant pines The Milan song that stayed a foreign king But gave thy soul to me. Come, love, cling close. (Vincenzo hurries with Nuccia across the bridge) THE END [71]