_Theoph._ Were all sceptres That grace the hands of kings made into one, And offer'd me, all crowns laid at my feet, I would contemn them all,--thus spit at them; So I to all posterities might be call'd The strongest champion of the Pagan gods, And rooter out of Christians. _Harp._ Oh, mine own, Mine own dear lord! to further this great work, I ever live thy slave. _Enter_ SAPRITIUS _and_ SEMPRONIUS. _Theoph._ No more--The governor. _Sap._ Keep the ports close[20], and let the guards be doubled; Disarm the Christians; call it death in any To wear a sword, or in his house to have one. _Semp._ I shall be careful, sir. _Sap._ 'Twill well become you. Such as refuse to offer sacrifice To any of our gods, put to the torture. Grub up this growing mischief by the roots; And know, when we are merciful to them, We to ourselves are cruel. _Semp._ You pour oil On fire that burns already at the height: I know the emperor's edict, and my charge, And they shall find no favour. _Theoph._ My good lord, This care is timely for the entertainment Of our great master, who this night in person Comes here to thank you. _Sap._ Who! the emperor? _Harp._ To clear your doubts, he doth return in triumph, Kings lackeying[21] by his triumphant chariot; And in this glorious victory, my lord, You have an ample share: for know, your son, The ne'er-enough commended Antoninus, So well hath flesh'd his maiden sword[22], and dyed His snowy plumes so deep in enemies' blood, That, besides public grace beyond his hopes, There are rewards propounded. _Sap._ I would know No mean in thine, could this be true. _Harp._ My head Answer the forfeit. _Sap._ Of his victory There was some rumour: but it was assured, The army pass'd a full day's journey higher Into the country. _Harp._ It was so determined; But, for the further honour of your son, And to observe the government of the city, And with what rigour, or remiss indulgence, The Christians are pursued, he makes his stay here: [_Trumpets._ For proof, his trumpets speak his near arrival. _Sap._ Haste, good Sempronius, draw up our guards, And with all ceremonious pomp receive The conquering army. Let our garrison speak Their welcome in loud shouts, the city show Her state and wealth. _Semp._ I'm gone. [_Exit._ _Sap._ O, I am ravish'd With this great honour! cherish, good Theophilus, This knowing scholar. Send for your fair daughters; I will present them to the emperor, And in their sweet conversion, as a mirror, Express your zeal and duty. _Theoph._ Fetch them, good Harpax. [_Exit_ HARPAX.