Nay, to endear them more, and let them see
We scorn to come behind in courtesy,
We'll follow the new mode which they begin,
And treat them with a room, and couch within:
For that's one way, howe'er the play fall short,
To oblige the town, the city, and the court.
Footnote:
- In the conclusion of Beaumont and Fletcher's play of "The Scornful Lady," Morecraft, an usurer, turns a cutter, or, as we now say, a buck. Dryden seems to allude to Ravenscroft's play of "The Citizen turned Gentleman," a transmigration somewhat resembling that of cutting Morecraft. This play was now acting by the Duke's company in Dorset Gardens, which, from its situation, says Mr Malone, was much frequented by citizens, as here insinuated.
DRAMATIS PERSONÆ
Polydamas, Usurper of Sicily.
Leonidas, the rightful Prince, unknown.
Argaleon, favourite to Polydamas.
Hermogenes, foster-father to Leonidas.
Eubulus, his friend and companion.
Rhodophil, captain of the guards.
Palamede, a courtier.