DRAMATIS PERSONÆ.
- Thyrsis, the lover of Sylvia.
- Hylas, the lover of Nerina.
- Mirtillus, the common lover.
- Daphnis, the rich shepherd.
- Montanus, an ancient shepherd.
- Charinus, father to Nerina.
- Alcon, an ancient shepherd.
- Nuntius.
Chorus of Shepherds.
- Sylvia, beloved of Thyrsis.
- Nerina, a huntress, beloved of Hylas and of Daphnis.
- Dorinda, enamoured of Daphnis.
- Delia, a court lady.
- Euarchus, king of Arcady.
- Eubulus, his councillor.
- Cleander, son to Eubulus.
- Attendants.
The Scene, Arcady.
[THE PROLOGUE FOR THE STAGE.]
To this fair company I am to say,
You're welcome all to a well-meaning play;
For such our author made it, with intent
To defame none. His muse is innocent:
A virgin yet, that has not found the ways
Out of foul crimes to raise herself a praise;
And therefore she desires you would excuse
All bitter strains, that suit a satire muse:
And that which so much takes the vulgar ear—
Looseness of speech, which they for jests do hear.
She hopes none such are here, therefore she dares
Venture this story, purg'd from lighter airs:
A piece entire, without or patch or maim,
Round in itself, and everywhere the same.
And if there be not in't what they call wit,
There might have been, had it been thought so fit.
A shepherd's muse gently of love does sing,
And with it mingles no impurer thing.
Such she presents unto your ears and eyes,
And yet your Christian freedom not denies
Of liking or disliking what you will:
You may say this is well, or that is ill,
Without dispute; for why should you that pay
For what you have, be taught what you should say?
Or made to judge by any square or rule,
As if you came not to a stage, but school?
No, he that made it says, if you will eat,
He will not force your stomachs: there's your meat;
Which if you like, 'tis well; if not, all's one;
There must be difference in opinion.
Besides, he's sure, whatever he could wish,
Your taste, and not his art, must praise the dish.