Gracious and great, that we so boldly dare
('Mongst other plays that now in fashion are)
To present this, writ many years agone,
And in that age thought second unto none,
We humbly crave your pardon. We pursue
The story of a rich and famous Jew
Who liv'd in Malta: you shall find him still,
In all his projects, a sound Machevill,
And that's his character. He that hath passed
So many censures is now come at last
To have your princely ears: grace you him; then
You crown the action, and renown the pen.