'The Lady's Trial,' 'The Fancies Chaste and Noble,' 'The Sun's Darling' (written in conjunction with Dekker), are worthy only of passing notice. They leave but a pale impression upon the mind. In 'Perkin Warbeck,' the one historical play of Ford, he exhibits his mastery over straightforward, sinewy verse. 'The Witch of Edmonton,' of which he wrote the first act, gives a signal example of his modern style and spirit. With the exception of 'Perkin Warbeck,' his dramas are destitute of outlook. This moral contraction heightens the intensity of passion, which in his conception of it has always its ancient significance of suffering. His comic scenes are contemptible. He is at his greatest when dealing with the subtleties of the human heart. Through him we enter into the darker zones of the soul; we apprehend its remoter sufferings. Confusion of spiritual vision, blended with the tyranny of passion, produce his greatest scenes. His are the tragedies of "unfulfilled desire." The verse of Ford is measured, passionless, polished. There is a subtle music in his lines which haunts the memory. "Parthenophil is lost, and I would see him; For he is like to something I remember, A great while since, a long, long time ago." With Ford the sun-born radiance of the noblest Elizabethan drama fades from the stage. An artificial light, thereafter, replaced it. FROM 'PERKIN WARBECK' [Perkin Warbeck and his followers are presented to King Henry VII. by Lord Dawbeny as prisoners.] _Dawbeny_-- Life to the King, and safety fix his throne. I here present you, royal sir, a shadow Of Majesty, but in effect a substance Of pity; a young man, in nothing grown To ripeness, but th' ambition of your mercy; Perkin, the Christian world's strange wonder! _King Henry_-- Dawbeny, We observe no wonder; I behold ('tis true) An ornament of nature, fine and polished, A handsome youth, indeed, but not admire him. How come he to thy hands? _Dawbeny_-- From sanctuary. At Bewley, near Southampton; registered, With these few followers, for persons privileged. _King Henry_-- I must not thank you, sir! you were to blame To infringe the liberty of houses sacred; Dare we be irreligious? _Dawbeny_-- Gracious lord! They voluntarily resigned themselves, Without compulsion. _King Henry_-- So? 'twas very well 'Twas very well. Turn now thine eyes, Young man! upon thyself and thy past actions: What revels in combustion through our kingdom A frenzy of aspiring youth has danced; Till wanting breath, thy feet of pride have slipt To break thy neck. _Warbeck_--