The Beggar's Opera - free ebook by John Gay

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The Beggar's Opera

John Gay

75 chapters

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75 chapters

INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

BEGGAR, PLAYER. Beggar . If Poverty be a Title to Poetry, I am sure no-body can dispute mine. I own myself of the Company of Beggars; and I make one at their Weekly Festivals at St. Giles’s . I have a small Yearly Salary for my Catches, and am welcome to a Dinner there whenever I please, which is more than most Poets can say. Player . As we live by the Muses, it is but Gratitude in us to encourage Poetical Merit wherever we find it. The Muses, contrary to all other Ladies, pay no Distinction

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AIR I. An old Woman clothed in Gray, &c.

AIR I. An old Woman clothed in Gray, &c.

Through all the Employments of Life Each Neighbour abuses his Brother ; Whore and Rogue they call Husband and Wife : All Professions be-rogue one another : The Priest calls the Lawyer a Cheat , The Lawyer be-knaves the Divine : And the Statesman , because he’s so great , Thinks his Trade as honest as mine . A Lawyer is an honest Employment, so is mine. Like me too he acts in a double Capacity, both against Rogues and for ’em; for ’tis but fitting that we should protect and encourage

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AIR II. The bonny gray-ey’d Morn, &c.

AIR II. The bonny gray-ey’d Morn, &c.

Filch. ’Tis Woman that seduces all Mankind , By her we first were taught the wheedling Arts : Her very Eyes can cheat ; when most she’s kind , She tricks us of our Money with our Hearts . For her , like Wolves by Night we roam for Prey , And practise ev’ry Fraud to bribe her Charms ; For Suits of Love , like Law , are won by Pay , And Beauty must be fee’d into our Arms . Peachum . But make haste to Newgate , Boy, and let my Friends know what I intend; for I love to make them easy o

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AIR III. Cold and raw, &c.

AIR III. Cold and raw, &c.

If any Wench Venus’s Girdle wear , Though she be never so ugly ; Lilies and Roses will quickly appear , And her Face look wond’rous smugly . Beneath the left Ear so fit but a Cord , ( A Rope so charming a Zone is !) The Youth in his Cart hath the Air of a Lord , And we cry , There dies an Adonis! But really, Husband, you should not be too hard-hearted, for you never had a finer, braver set of Men than at present. We have not had a Murder among them all, these seven Months. And trul

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AIR IV. Why is your faithful Slave disdain’d? &c.

AIR IV. Why is your faithful Slave disdain’d? &c.

If Love the Virgin’s Heart invade , How , like a Moth , the simple Maid Still plays about the Flame ! If soon she be not made a Wife , Her Honour’s sing’d , and then for Life , She’s — what I dare not name . Peachum . Look ye, Wife. A handsome Wench in our way of Business is as profitable as at the Bar of a Temple Coffee-House, who looks upon it as her livelihood to grant every Liberty but one. You see I would indulge the Girl as far as prudently we can. In any thing, but Marriage! Af

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AIR V. Of all the simple Things we do, &c.

AIR V. Of all the simple Things we do, &c.

A Maid is like the Golden Ore , Which hath Guineas intrinsical in’t , Whose Worth is never known before It is try’d and imprest in the Mint . A Wife’s like a Guinea in Gold , Stampt with the Name of her Spouse ; Now here , now there ; is bought , or is sold ; And is current in every House . [ Enter Filch. Mrs. Peachum . Come hither, Filch . I am as fond of this Child, as though my Mind misgave me he were my own. He hath as fine a Hand at picking a Pocket as a Woman, and is as nimb

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AIR VI. What shall I do to shew how much I love her, &c.

AIR VI. What shall I do to shew how much I love her, &c.

Virgins are like the fair Flower in its Lustre , Which in the Garden enamels the Ground ; Near it the Bees in play flutter and cluster , And gaudy Butterflies frolick around . But , when once pluck’d , ’tis no longer alluring , To Covent-Garden ’tis sent ( as yet sweet ), There fades , and shrinks , and grows past all enduring , Rots , stinks , and dies , and is trod under feet . Peachum . You know, Polly , I am not against your toying and trifling with a Customer in the way of Busi

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AIR VII. Oh London is a fine Town.

AIR VII. Oh London is a fine Town.

Our Polly is a sad Slut ! nor heeds what we have taught her . I wonder any Man alive will ever rear a Daughter ! For she must have both Hoods and Gowns , and Hoops to swell her Pride , With Scarfs and Stays , and Gloves and Lace ; and she will have Men beside ; And when she’s drest with Care and Cost , all tempting , fine and gay , As Men should serve a Cucumber , she flings herself away . Our Polly is a sad Slut ! &amp;c. You Baggage! you Hussy! you inconsiderate Jade! had you been

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AIR VIII. Grim King of the Ghosts, &c.

AIR VIII. Grim King of the Ghosts, &c.

Polly. Can Love be control’d by Advice ? Will Cupid our Mothers obey ? Though my Heart were as frozen as Ice , At his Flame ’twould have melted away . When he kist me so closely he prest , ’Twas so sweet that I must have comply’d : So I thought it both safest and best To marry , for fear you should chide . Mrs. Peachum . Then all the Hopes of our Family are gone for ever and ever! Peachum . And Ma

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AIR IX. O Jenny, O Jenny, where hast thou been.

AIR IX. O Jenny, O Jenny, where hast thou been.

O Polly, you might have toy’d and kist . By keeping Men off , you keep them on . Polly. But he so teaz’d me , And he so pleas’d me , What I did , you must have done . Mrs. Peachum . Not with a Highwayman.—You sorry Slut! Peachum . A Word with you, Wife. ’Tis no new thing for a Wench to take Man without Consent of Parents. You know ’tis the Frailty of Women, my Dear. Mrs. Peachum . Yes, indeed, the Sex is frail. But the first ti

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AIR X. Thomas, I cannot, &c.

AIR X. Thomas, I cannot, &c.

Polly. I , like a Ship in Storms , was tost ; Yet afraid to put in to Land : For seiz’d in the Port the Vessel’s lost , Whose Treasure is contreband . The Waves are laid , My Duty’s paid . O Joy beyond Expression ! Thus , safe a-shore , I ask no more , My All is in my Possession . Peachum . I hear Customers in t’other Room: Go, talk with ’em, Polly ; but come to us again, as

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AIR XI. A Soldier and a Sailor.

AIR XI. A Soldier and a Sailor.

A Fox may steal your Hens , Sir , A Whore your Health and Pence , Sir , Your Daughter rob your Chest , Sir , Your Wife may steal your Rest , Sir . A Thief your Goods and Plate . But this is all but picking , With Rest , Pence , Chest and Chicken ; It ever was decreed , Sir , If Lawyer’s Hand is fee’d , Sir , He steals your whole Estate . The Lawyers are bitter Enemies to those in our Way. They don’t care that any body should get a clandestine Livelihood but themselves. Enter Polly. Polly

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AIR XII. Now ponder well, ye Parents dear.

AIR XII. Now ponder well, ye Parents dear.

Polly. O ponder well! be not severe ; So save a wretched Wife ! For on the Rope that hangs my Dear Depends poor Polly’s Life . Mrs. Peachum . But your Duty to your Parents, Hussy, obliges you to hang him. What would many a Wife give for such an Opportunity! Polly . What is a Jointure, what is Widow-hood to me? I know my Heart. I cannot survive him....

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AIR XIII. Le printems rapelle aux armes.

AIR XIII. Le printems rapelle aux armes.

The Turtle thus with plaintive Crying , Her Lover dying , The Turtle thus with plaintive Crying , Laments her Dove . Down she drops quite spent with Sighing . Pair’d in Death , as pair’d in Love . Thus, Sir, it will happen to your poor Polly . Mrs. Peachum . What, is the Fool in Love in earnest then? I hate thee for being particular: Why, Wench, thou art a Shame to thy very Sex. Polly . But hear me, Mother.—If you ever lov’d— Mrs. Peachum . Those cursed Play-Books she reads have

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AIR XIV. Pretty Parrot, say—

AIR XIV. Pretty Parrot, say—

Macheath. Pretty Polly, say , When I was away , Did your fancy never stray To some newer Lover ? Polly. Without Disguise , Heaving Sighs , Doting Eyes , My constant Heart discover . Fondly let me loll ! Macheath. O pretty , pretty Poll . Polly . And are you as fond as ever, my Dear? Macheath . Suspect my Honour, my Courage, suspect

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AIR XV. Pray, Fair one, be kind—

AIR XV. Pray, Fair one, be kind—

Macheath. My Heart was so free , It rov’d like the Bee , ’ Till Polly my Passion requited ; I sipt each Flower , I chang’d every Hour , But here every Flower is united . Polly . Were you sentenc’d to Transportation, sure, my Dear, you could not leave me behind you—could you? Macheath . Is there any Power, any Force that could tear me from thee? You might sooner tear a Pension out of the Hands

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AIR XVI. Over the Hills and far away.

AIR XVI. Over the Hills and far away.

Were I laid on Greenland’s Coast , And in my Arms embrac’d my Lass ; Warm amidst eternal Frost , Too soon the Half Year’s Night would pass . Polly. Were I sold on Indian Soil , Soon as the burning Day was clos’d , I could mock the sultry Toil When on my Charmer’s Breast repos’d . Macheath. And I would love you all the Day , Polly.

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AIR XVII. Gin thou wert mine awn thing—

AIR XVII. Gin thou wert mine awn thing—

Oh what Pain it is to part ! Can I leave thee , can I leave thee ? O what pain it is to part ! Can thy Polly ever leave thee ? But lest Death my Love should thwart , And bring thee to the fatal Cart , Thus I tear thee from my bleeding Heart ! Fly hence , and let me leave thee . One Kiss and then—one Kiss—be gone—farewel. Macheath . My Hand, my Heart, my Dear, is so riveted to thine, that I cannot unloose my Hold. Polly . But my Papa may intercept thee, and then I should lose the very glimme

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AIR XVIII. O the Broom, &c.

AIR XVIII. O the Broom, &c.

Macheath. The Miser thus a Shilling sees , Which he’s oblig’d to pay , With sighs resigns it by degrees , And fears ’tis gone for ay . [Parting, and looking back at each other with fondness; he at one Door, she at the other.] Polly. The Boy , thus , when his Sparrow’s flown , The Bird in Silence eyes ; But soon as out of Sight ’tis gone , Whines ,

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AIR XIX. Fill every Glass, &c.

AIR XIX. Fill every Glass, &c.

Matt. Fill every Glass , for Wine inspires us , And fires us With Courage , Love and Joy . Women and Wine should life employ . Is there ought else on Earth desirous ? Chorus. Fill every Glass , &amp;c. To them enter Macheath. Macheath . Gentlemen, well met. My Heart hath been with you this Hour; but an unexpected Affair hath detain’d me. No Ceremony, I beg you. Matt . We were just breaking up to go upon Duty. Am I to

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AIR XX. March in Rinaldo, with Drums and Trumpets.

AIR XX. March in Rinaldo, with Drums and Trumpets.

Matt . Let us take the Road . Hark ! I hear the Sound of Coaches ! The Hour of Attack approaches , To your Arms , brave Boys , and load . See the Ball I hold ! Let the Chymists toil like Asses , Our Fire their Fire surpasses , And turns all our Lead to Gold . [The Gang, rang’d in the Front of the Stage, load their Pistols, and stick them under their Girdles; then go off singing the first Part in Ch

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AIR XXI. Would you have a young Virgin, &c.

AIR XXI. Would you have a young Virgin, &c.

If the Heart of a Man is deprest with Cares , The Mist is dispell’d when a Woman appears ; Like the Notes of a Fiddle , she sweetly , sweetly Raises the Spirits , and charms our Ears , Roses and Lilies her Cheeks disclose , But her ripe Lips are more sweet than those . Press her , Caress her , With Blisses , Her Kisses Dissolve us in Pleasure , and soft Repose . I must have Women. There is nothing unbends the Mind like them. Money is not so strong a

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AIR XXII. Cotillon.

AIR XXII. Cotillon.

Youth’s the Season made for Joys , Love is then our Duty , She alone who that employs , Well deserves her Beauty . Let’s be gay , While we may , Beauty’s a Flower , despis’d in Decay . Youth’s the Season , &amp;c. Let us drink and sport to-day , Ours is not to-morrow . Love with Youth flies swift away , Age is nought but Sorrow . Dance and sing , Time’s on the Wing . Life never knows the Return of Spring . Chorus. Let us drink

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AIR XXIII. All in a misty Morning, &c.

AIR XXIII. All in a misty Morning, &c.

Before the Barn-Door crowing , The Cock by Hens attended , His Eyes around him throwing , Stands for a while suspended . Then One he singles from the Crew , And cheers the happy Hen ; With how do you do , and how do you do , And how do you do again . Macheath . Ah Jenny ! thou art a dear Slut. Jenny . A Man of Courage should never put any thing to the Risk but his Life. These are the Tools of a Man of Honour. Cards and Dice are only fit for cowardly Cheats, who prey upon their Fr

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AIR XXIV. When first I laid Siege to my Chloris, &c.

AIR XXIV. When first I laid Siege to my Chloris, &c.

Macheath . At the Tree I shall suffer with Pleasure , At the Tree I shall suffer with Pleasure , Let me go where I will , In all kinds of Ill , I shall find no such Furies as these are . Peachum . Ladies, I’ll take care the Reckoning shall be discharged. [ Exit Macheath, guarded with Peachum and Constables. Mrs. Vixen . Look ye, Mrs. Jenny , though Mr. Peachum may have made a private Bargain with you a

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SCENE II. Newgate.

SCENE II. Newgate.

Lockit, Turnkeys , Macheath, Constables . Lockit . Noble Captain, you are welcome. You have not been a Lodger of mine this Year and half. You know the Custom, Sir. Garnish, Captain, Garnish. Hand me down those Fetters there. Macheath . Those, Mr. Lockit , seem to be the heaviest of the whole Set. With your Leave, I should like the further Pair better. Lockit . Look ye, Captain, we know what is fittest for our Prisoners. When a Gentleman uses me with Civility, I always do the best I can

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AIR XXV. Courtiers, Courtiers, think it no Harm, &c.

AIR XXV. Courtiers, Courtiers, think it no Harm, &c.

Man may escape from Rope and Gun ; Nay , some have out liv’d the Doctor’s Pill ; Who takes a Woman must be undone , That Basilisk is sure to kill . The Fly that sips Treacle is lost in the Sweets , So he that tastes Woman , Woman , Woman , He that tastes Woman , ruin meets . To what a woful Plight have I brought myself! Here must I (all Day long, ’till I am hang’d) be confin’d to hear the Reproaches of a Wench who lays her Ruin at my Door—I am in the Custody of her Father, and to be sure,

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AIR XXVI. A lovely Lass to a Friar came, &c.

AIR XXVI. A lovely Lass to a Friar came, &c.

Thus when a good Housewife sees a Rat In her Trap in the Morning taken , With Pleasure her Heart goes pit-a-pat , In Revenge for her Loss of Bacon . Then she throws him To the Dog or Cat , To be worried , crush’d and shaken . Macheath . Have you no Bowels, no Tenderness, my dear Lucy , to see a Husband in these Circumstances? Lucy . A Husband! Macheath . In ev’ry Respect but the Form, and that, my Dear, may be said over us at any time.—Friends should not insist upon Cerem

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AIR XXVII. ’Twas when the Sea was roaring, &c.

AIR XXVII. ’Twas when the Sea was roaring, &c.

How cruel are the Traitors , Who lye and swear in jest , To cheat unguarded Creatures Of Virtue , Fame , and Rest ! Whoever steals a Shilling , Through Shame the Guilt conceals : In Love the perjur’d Villain With Boasts the Theft reveals . Macheath . The very first Opportunity, my Dear, (have but Patience) you shall be my Wife in whatever manner you please. Lucy . Insinuating Monster! And so you think I know nothing of the Affair of Miss Polly Peachum .—I could tear thy Eyes out!

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AIR XXVIII. The Sun had loos’d his weary Teams, &c.

AIR XXVIII. The Sun had loos’d his weary Teams, &c.

The first time at the Looking-glass The Mother sets her Daughter , The Image strikes the smiling Lass With Self-love ever after , Each time she looks , she , fonder grown , Thinks ev’ry Charm grows stronger . But alas , vain Maid , all Eyes but your own Can see you are not younger . When Women consider their own Beauties, they are all alike unreasonable in their Demands; for they expect their Lovers should like them as long as they like themselves. Lucy . Yonder is my Father—perhaps

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AIR XXIX. How happy are we, &c.

AIR XXIX. How happy are we, &c.

When you censure the Age , Be cautious and sage , Lest the Courtiers offended should be : If you mention Vice or Bribe , ’Tis so pat to all the Tribe ; Each cries — That was levell’d at me . Peachum . Here’s poor Ned Clincher’s Name, I see. Sure, Brother Lockit , there was a little unfair Proceeding in Ned’s Case: for he told me in the Condemn’d Hold, that for Value receiv’d, you had promis’d him a Session or two longer without Molestation. Lockit . Mr. Peachum —this is the first

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AIR XXX. Of a noble Race was Shenkin.

AIR XXX. Of a noble Race was Shenkin.

Lucy. Is then his Fate decreed , Sir ? Such a Man can I think of quitting ? When first we met , so moves me yet , O see how my Heart is splitting ! Lockit . Look ye, Lucy —There is no saving him.—So, I think, you must ev’n do like other Widows—buy yourself Weeds, and be chearful....

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AIR XXXI.

AIR XXXI.

You’ll think ere many Days ensue This Sentence not severe ; I hang your Husband , Child , ’tis true , But with him hang your Care . Twang dang dillo dee . Like a good Wife, go moan over your dying Husband. That, Child is your Duty—Consider, Girl, you can’t have the Man and the Money too—so make yourself as easy as you can, by getting all you can from him. [ Exit Lockit. Enter Macheath. Lucy . Though the Ordinary was out of the way to-day, I hope, my Dear, you will, upon the first O

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AIR XXXII. London Ladies.

AIR XXXII. London Ladies.

If you at an Office solicit your Due , And would not have Matters neglected ; You must quicken the Clerk with the Perquisite too , To do what his Duty directed . Or would you the Frowns of a Lady prevent , She too has this palpable Failing , The Perquisite softens her into Consent ; That Reason with all is prevailing . Lucy . What Love or Money can do shall be done: for all my Comfort depends upon your Safety. Enter Polly. Polly . Where is my dear Husband?—Was a Rope ever intended

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AIR XXXIII. All in the Downs, &c.

AIR XXXIII. All in the Downs, &c.

Thus when the Swallow seeking Prey , Within the Sash is closely pent , His Consort , with bemoaning Lay , Without sits pining for th’ Event . Her chatt’ring Lovers all around her skim ; She heeds them not ( poor Bird !) her Soul’s with him . Macheath . [ Aside .] I must disown her. [ Aloud .] The Wench is distracted. Lucy . Am I then bilk’d of my Virtue? Can I have no Reparation? Sure Men were born to lie, and Women to believe them! O Villain! Villain! Polly . Am I not thy Wif

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AIR XXXIV. Have you heard of a frolicksome Ditty, &c.

AIR XXXIV. Have you heard of a frolicksome Ditty, &c.

Macheath. How happy could I be with either , Were t’other dear Charmer away ! But while you thus teaze me together , To neither a Word will I say ; But tol de rol , &amp;c. Polly . Sure, my Dear, there ought to be some Preference shewn to a Wife! At least she may claim the Appearance of it. He must be distracted with his Misfortunes, or he could not use me thus. Lucy . O Villain, Villain! t

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AIR XXXV. Irish Trot.

AIR XXXV. Irish Trot.

Polly. I am bubbled . Lucy. . . . I’m bubbled . Polly. O how I am troubled ! Lucy. Bambouzled , and bit ! Polly. . . . My Distresses are doubled . Lucy. When you come to the Tree , should the Hangman refuse , These Fingers , with Pleasure , could fasten the Noose . Polly. I’m bubbled, &amp;c. Macheath . Be pacified, my dear Lucy —This is all a Fetch of Polly’s , to make me desperate with you in case I get off. If I am hang’d, she would fain have the Credit of being t

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AIR XXXVI.

AIR XXXVI.

Polly. Cease your Funning ; Force or Cunning Never shall my Heart trapan . All these Sallies Are but Malice To seduce my constant Man . ’Tis most certain , By their flirting Women oft’ have Envy shown . Pleas’d , to ruin Others wooing ; Never happy in their own . Polly . Decency, Madam, methinks might teach you to behave yourself with some

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AIR XXXVII. Good-morrow, Gossip Joan.

AIR XXXVII. Good-morrow, Gossip Joan.

Lucy. Why how now , Madam Flirt? If you thus must chatter ; And are for flinging Dirt , Let’s try who best can spatter ; Madam Flirt. Polly. Why how now , saucy Jade ; Sure the Wench is tipsy ! How can you see me made [To him.] The Scoff of such a Gipsy ? Saucy Jade ! [To her.] Enter Peachum. Peachum . Where’s my Wench?

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AIR XXXVIII. Irish Howl.

AIR XXXVIII. Irish Howl.

Polly. No Power on Earth can e’er divide The Knot that sacred Love hath ty’d . When Parents draw against our Mind , The True-Love’s Knot they faster bind . Oh , oh ray , oh Amborah — oh , oh , &amp;c. [Holding Macheath , Peachum pulling her....

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SCENE III. The Same.

SCENE III. The Same.

Lucy, Macheath. Macheath . I am naturally compassionate, Wife; so that I could not use the Wench as she deserv’d; which made you at first suspect there was something in what she said. Lucy . Indeed, my Dear, I was strangely puzzled. Macheath . If that had been the Case, her Father would never have brought me into this Circumstance—No, Lucy ,—I had rather die than be false to thee. Lucy . How happy am I, if you say this from your Heart! For I love thee so, that I could sooner bear to see the

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AIR XXXIX. The Lass of Patie’s Mill, &c.

AIR XXXIX. The Lass of Patie’s Mill, &c.

Lucy. I like the Fox shall grieve , Whose Mate hath left her Side , Whom Hounds from Morn to Eve , Chase o’er the Country wide . Where can my Lover hide ? Where cheat the wary Pack ? If Love be not his Guide , He never will come back ! [ Exeunt . Scene, Newgate . Lockit, Lucy. Lockit . To be sure, Wench, you must have been aiding and abetting to help him to this Escape. Lucy . Sir, here hath been

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AIR XL. If Love’s a sweet Passion, &c.

AIR XL. If Love’s a sweet Passion, &c.

When young at the Bar you first taught me to score , And bid me be free of my Lips , and no more ; I was kiss’d by the Parson , the Squire , and the Sot , When the Guest was departed , the Kiss was forgot . But his Kiss was so sweet , and so closely he prest , That I languish’d and pin’d till I granted the rest . If you can forgive me, Sir, I will make a fair Confession, for to be sure he hath been a most barbarous Villain to me. Lockit . And so you have let him escape, Hussy—Have you? Lucy .

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AIR XLI. South-Sea Ballad.

AIR XLI. South-Sea Ballad.

My Love is all Madness and Folly , Alone I lie , Toss , tumble , and cry , What a happy Creature is Polly ! Was e’er such a Wretch as I ! With rage I redden like Scarlet , That my dear inconstant Varlet , Stark blind to my Charms , Is lost in the Arms Of that Jilt , that inveigling Harlot ! Stark blind to my Charms , Is lost in the Arms Of that Jilt , that inveigling Harlot ! This , this my Resentment alarms . Lockit . And so, after all this Mischief, I must stay here to be

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AIR XLII. Packington’s Pound.

AIR XLII. Packington’s Pound.

Thus Gamesters united in Friendship are found , Though they know that their Industry all is a Cheat ; They flock to their Prey at the Dice-Box’s Sound , And join to promote one another’s Deceit . But if by mishap They fail of a Chap , To keep in their Hands , they each other entrap . Like Pikes , lank with Hunger , who miss of their Ends , They bite their Companions , and prey on their Friends . Now, Peachum , you and I, like honest Tradesmen, are to have a fair Trial which of us two

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SCENE II. A Gaming-House.

SCENE II. A Gaming-House.

Macheath in a fine tarnish’d Coat , Ben Budge, Matt of the Mint. Macheath . I am sorry, Gentlemen, the Road was so barren of Money. When my Friends are in Difficulties, I am always glad that my Fortune can be serviceable to them. [ Gives them Money .] You see, Gentlemen, I am not a mere Court Friend, who professes every thing and will do nothing....

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AIR XLIII. Lillibullero.

AIR XLIII. Lillibullero.

The Modes of the Court so common are grown , That a true Friend can hardly be met ; Friendship for Interest is but a Loan , Which they let out for what they can get . ’Tis true , you find Some Friends so kind , Who will give you good Counsel themselves to defend . In sorrowful Ditty , They promise , they pity , But shift for your Money , from Friend to Friend . But we, Gentlemen, have still Honour enough to break through the Corruptions of the World.—And

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SCENE III. Peachum’s Lock.

SCENE III. Peachum’s Lock.

A Table with Wine , Brandy , Pipes and Tobacco . Peachum, Lockit. Lockit . The Coronation Account, Brother Peachum , is of so intricate a nature, that I believe it will never be settled. Peachum . It consists indeed of a great Variety of Articles.—It was worth to our People, in Fees of different kinds, above ten Instalments.—This is part of the Account, Brother, that lies open before us. Lockit . A Lady’s Tail of rich Brocade:—that, I see, is dispos’d of. Peachum . To Mrs. Diana Trapes , the

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AIR XLIV. Down in the North Country, &c.

AIR XLIV. Down in the North Country, &c.

Lockit. What Gudgeons are we Men ! Ev’ry Woman’s easy Prey . Though we have felt the Hook , agen We bite and they betray . The Bird that hath been trapt , When he hears his calling Mate , To her he flies , again he’s clapt Within the wiry Grate . Peachum . But what signifies catching the Bird, if your Daughter Lucy will set open the Door of the Cage? Lockit . If men were ans

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AIR XLV. A Shepherd kept Sheep, &c.

AIR XLV. A Shepherd kept Sheep, &c.

In the Days of my Youth I could bill like a Dove , fa, la, la, &amp;c. Like a Sparrow at all times was ready for Love , fa, la, la, &amp;c. The Life of all Mortals in Kissing should pass , Lip to Lip while we’re young — then the Lip to the Glass , fa, la, &amp;c. But now, Mr. Peachum , to our Business.—If you have Blacks of any kind, brought in of late; Mantoes—Velvet Scarfs—Petticoats—Let it be what it will—I am your Chap—for all my Ladies are very fond of Mourning. Peachum . Why,

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SCENE IV. Newgate.

SCENE IV. Newgate.

Lucy . Jealousy, Rage, Love and Fear are at once tearing me to pieces, How I am weather-beaten and shatter’d with Distresses!...

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AIR XLVI. One Evening, having lost my Way, &c.

AIR XLVI. One Evening, having lost my Way, &c.

I’m like a Skiff on the Ocean tost , Now high , now low , with each Billow born , With her Rudder broke , and her Anchor lost , Deserted and all forlorn . While thus I lie rolling and tossing all Night , That Polly lies sporting on Seas of Delight ! Revenge , Revenge , Revenge , Shall appease my restless Spirit . I have the Rats-bane ready.—I run no Risque; for I can lay her Death upon the Ginn, and so many die of that naturally that I shall never be call’d in questio

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AIR XLVII. Now Roger, I’ll tell thee because thou ’rt my Son.

AIR XLVII. Now Roger, I’ll tell thee because thou ’rt my Son.

When a Wife’s in her Pout , ( As she’s sometimes , no doubt ;) The good Husband as meek as a Lamb , Her Vapours to still , First grants her her Will , And the quieting Draught is a Dram . Poor Man ! And the quieting Draught is a Dram . —I wish all our Quarrels might have so comfortable a Reconciliation. Polly . I have no Excuse for my own Behaviour, Madam, but my Misfortunes.—And really, Madam, I suffer too upon your Account. Lucy . But, Miss Polly —in the way of Friendship, will

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AIR XLVIII. O Bessy Bell.

AIR XLVIII. O Bessy Bell.

Polly. A Curse attend that Woman’s Love , Who always would be pleasing . Lucy. The Pertness of the billing Dove , Like Tickling , is but teazing . Polly. What then in Love can Woman do : Lucy. If we grow fond they shun us . Polly. And when we fly them , they pursue : Lucy. But leave us when they’ve won us . Lucy . Love is so very whimsical in both Sexes, that it is impossible to be lasting.—But my Heart is particular, and contradicts my own Observati

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AIR XLIX. Would Fate to me Belinda give.

AIR XLIX. Would Fate to me Belinda give.

Among the Men , Coquettes we find , Who court by turns all Woman-kind ; And we grant all their Hearts desir’d , When they are flatter’d , and admir’d . The Coquettes of both Sexes are Self-lovers, and that is a Love no other whatever can dispossess. I hear, my dear Lucy , our Husband is one of those. Lucy . Away with these melancholy Reflections,—indeed, my dear Polly , we are both of us a Cup too low—Let me prevail upon you to accept of my Offer....

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AIR L. Come, sweet Lass.

AIR L. Come, sweet Lass.

Come , sweet Lass , Let’s banish Sorrow ’Till To-morrow ; Come , sweet Lass , Let’s take a chirping Glass . Wine can clear The Vapours of Despair And make us light as Air ; Then drink , and banish Care . I can’t bear, Child, to see you in such low Spirits.—And I must persuade you to what I know will do you good. [ Aside .] I shall now soon be even with the hypocrytical Strumpet. [ Exit . Polly . All this Wheedling of Lucy cannot be for nothing.—At this time too! when

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AIR LI. The last time I went o’er the Moor.

AIR LI. The last time I went o’er the Moor.

Polly. Hither , dear Husband , turn your Eyes . Lucy. Bestow one Glance to cheer me . Polly. Think with that Look , thy Polly dies . Lucy. O shun me not — but hear me . Polly. ’Tis Polly sues . Lucy. — ’Tis Lucy speaks . Polly. Is thus true Love requited ? Lucy. My Heart is bursting . Polly. — Mine too breaks . Lucy. Must I Polly. — Must I be slighted ? Macheath . What would you have me say, Ladies?—You see this affair will soon be at an end, without

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AIR LII. Tom Tinker’s my true Love.

AIR LII. Tom Tinker’s my true Love.

Macheath. Which way shall I turn me — How can I decide ? Wives , the Day of our Death , are as fond as a Bride . One Wife is too much for most Husbands to hear , But two at a time there’s no mortal can bear . This way , and that way , and which way I will , What would comfort the one , t’ other Wife would take ill . Polly . But if his own Misfortunes have made him insensible to mine—A Fat

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AIR LIII. I am a poor Shepherd undone.

AIR LIII. I am a poor Shepherd undone.

When my Heroe in Court appears , And stands arraign’d for his Life ; Then think of poor Polly’s Tears ; For Ah ! poor Polly’s his Wife . Like the Sailor he holds up his hand , Distrest on the dashing Wave . To die a dry Death at Land , Is as bad as a watery Grave . And alas , poor Polly! Alack , and well-a-day ! Before I was in Love , Oh ! every Month was May. Lucy . If Peachum’s Heart is harden’d; sure you, Sir, will have more Compassion on a Daughter.—I kno

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AIR LIV. Ianthe the lovely, &c.

AIR LIV. Ianthe the lovely, &c.

When he holds up his Hand arraign’d for his Life , O think of your Daughter , and think I’m his Wife ! What are Canons , or Bombs , or clashing of Swords ? For Death is more certain by Witnesses Words . Then nail up their Lips ; that dread Thunder allay ; And each Month of my Life will hereafter be May . Lockit . Macheath’s Time is come, Lucy .—We know our own Affairs, therefore let us have no more Whimpering or Whining....

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AIR LV. A Cobler there was, &c.

AIR LV. A Cobler there was, &c.

Ourselves , like the Great , to secure a Retreat , When Matters require it , must give up our Gang : And good reason why , Or , instead of the Fry , Ev’n Peachum and I . Like poor petty Rascals , might hang , hang ; Like poor petty Rascals , might hang . Peachum . Set your Heart at rest, Polly .—Your Husband is to die to-day.—Therefore if you are not already provided, ’tis high time to look about for another. There’s Comfort for you, you Slut. Lockit . We are ready, Sir, to

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AIR LVI. Bonny Dundee.

AIR LVI. Bonny Dundee.

Macheath. The Charge is prepar’d ; the Lawyers are met , The Judges all rang’d ( a terrible Show !) I go , undismay’d .— For Death is a Debt , A Debt on Demand .— So take what I owe . Then farewell , my Love — Dear Charmers , adieu . Contented I die — ’Tis the better for you . Here ends all Disputes the rest of our Lives , For this way at once I pl

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SCENE V. The Condemn’d Hold.

SCENE V. The Condemn’d Hold.

Macheath, in a melancholy Posture ....

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AIR LVII. Happy Groves.

AIR LVII. Happy Groves.

O cruel , cruel , cruel Case ! Must I suffer this Disgrace ?...

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AIR LVIII. Of all the Girls that are so smart.

AIR LVIII. Of all the Girls that are so smart.

Of all the Friends in time of Grief , When threatning Death looks grimmer , Not one so sure can bring Relief , As this best Friend , a Brimmer . [Drinks....

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AIR LIX. Britons strike home.

AIR LIX. Britons strike home.

Since I must swing ,— I scorn , I scorn to wince or whine . [Rises....

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AIR LX. Chevy Chase.

AIR LX. Chevy Chase.

But now again my Spirits sink ; I’ll raise them high with Wine . [Drinks a Glass of Wine....

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AIR LXI. To old Sir Simon the King.

AIR LXI. To old Sir Simon the King.

But Valour the stronger grows , The stronger Liquor we’er drinking ; And how can we feel our Woes , When we’ve lost the Trouble of Thinking ?...

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AIR LXII. Joy to Great Cæsar.

AIR LXII. Joy to Great Cæsar.

If thus — A Man can die Much bolder with Brandy . [Pours out a Bumper of Brandy....

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AIR LXIII. There was an old Woman.

AIR LXIII. There was an old Woman.

So I drink off this Bumper .— And now I can stand the Test , And my Comrades shall see , that I die as brave as the Best ....

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AIR LXIV. Did you ever hear of a gallant Sailor.

AIR LXIV. Did you ever hear of a gallant Sailor.

But can I leave my pretty Hussies , Without one Tear , or tender Sigh ?...

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AIR LXV. Why are mine Eyes still flowing.

AIR LXV. Why are mine Eyes still flowing.

Their Eyes , their Lips , their Busses Recall my Love ,— Ah must I die !...

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AIR LXVI. Green Sleeves.

AIR LXVI. Green Sleeves.

Since Laws were made for ev’ry Degree , To curb Vice in others , as well as me , I wonder we han’t better Company , Upon Tyburn Tree ! But Gold from Law can take out the Sting ; And if rich Men like us were to swing , ’Twou’d thin the Land , such Numbers to string Upon Tyburn Tree ! Jailor . Some Friends of yours, Captain, desire to be admitted—I leave you together. Enter Ben Budge, Matt of the Mint. Macheath . For my having broke Prison, you see, Gentlemen, I am order’d immediate

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AIR LXVII. All you that must take a Leap, &c.

AIR LXVII. All you that must take a Leap, &c.

Lucy. Would I might be hang’d ! Polly. — And I would so too ! Lucy. To be hang’d with you . Polly. — My Dear , with you . Macheath. O leave me to Thought ! I fear ! I doubt ! I tremble ! I droop !— See , my Courage is out . [Turns up the empty Bottle. Polly. No Token of Love ? Macheath. — See , my Courage is out . [Turns up the empty Pot. Lucy. No Token of Love? Polly. — Adieu . Lucy. — Farewell . Machea

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AIR LXVIII. Lumps of Pudding, &c.

AIR LXVIII. Lumps of Pudding, &c.

Thus I stand like the Turk, with his Doxies around ; From all Sides their Glances his Passion confound ; For Black , Brown , and Fair , his Inconstancy burns , And the different Beauties subdue him by turns : Each calls forth her Charms to provoke his Desires : Though willing to all , with but one he retires . But think of this Maxim , and put off your Sorrow , The Wretch of To-day , may be happy To-morrow . Chorus. But think of this Maxim , &amp;c....

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