ABSTRACT
The Countess of Pembroke's Arcadia 49 I then do you crie out for? not for her, who must have died one time or other; but for some fewe yeares: so as it is time, & this world that seeme so lovely things, and not Philoclea unto you. 0 noble Sisters (cried Pyrocles) now you be gone (who were the onely exalters of all womankind) what is left in that sex, but babling, and businesse? And truly (said she) I will yet a little longer trouble you. Nay, I pray you doo (said Pyrocles) for I wishe for nothing in my shorte life, but mischiefes, and combers: and I am content you shall be one of them. In truth (said she) you would thinke your selfe a greatly priviledged person, if since the strongest buildings, and lastingest monarchies are subject to end, onely your Philoclea (because she is yours) should be exempted. But indeede you bemone your selfe, who have lost a friende: you cannot her, who hath in one act both preserved her honour, and lefte the miseries of this worlde. 0 womans philosophie, childish follie (said Pyrocles) as though if I do bemone my selfe, I have not reason to doo so, having lost more then any Monarchie, nay then my life can be woorth unto me. Alas (said she) comforte your selfe, Nature did not forget her skill, when she had made them: you shall find many their superiours, and perchaunce such, as (when your eyes shall looke abroad) your selfe will like better.
