VENUS.
And think you, dame, my power she did not know?
FORTUNE.
But it was I that dashed their delight.
VENUS.
After that I had proved my open might.
VULCAN.
What a scolding is here! shall it even thus be?
You look like an honest man in the parish; I pray you, make them agree.
JUPITER.
Content ye both: I'll hear no more of this.
And, Mercury, surcease; call out no more.
I have bethought me how to work their wish,
As you have often prov'd it heretofore.
Here in this land, within that princely bower,
There is a Prince beloved of his love,
On whom I mean your sovereignties to prove.
Venus, for that th[e]y love thy sweet delight,
Thou shalt endeavour to increase their joy:
And, Fortune, thou to manifest thy might,
Their pleasures and their pastimes shalt[72] destroy,
Overthwarting them with news of fresh annoy;
And she that most can please them or despite,
I will confirm to be of greatest might.
VENUS.
Your godhead hath devis'd, as I desire,
And I am gladly therewithal content.
FORTUNE.
And I am prest to do as you require;
Now shall you see the proof of my intent.
[JUPITER.]
Take up your places here to work your will:
When you have done, the rest I shall fulfil.
VULCAN.
They are set sunning like a crow in a gutter. What, are they gone?
And you will be quiet, sirs, they will make you good sport with their
scolding anon.
Are not these a sort of good, mannerly gods to get them thus away?
I must take the pains to overtake them, for I see they will not stay.
[Exeunt omnes.