The history of the Earl of Warwick, sirnam'd the King-maker: containing his amours, and other memorable transactions. By the author of the Memoirs of the English court.:

MEMOIRS OF THE Earl of WARWICK.

PART I.

HENRY of Lancaster, King of England, had reign'd peaceably near thirty years, when Richard Duke of York, whose Ancestors were once in full Pos∣session of that Crown, resolv'd to lay hold of that favourable Juncture which then offer'd it self, to assert and maintain his Right, in conjunction with Edward Earl of Marche, his Son, and Richard Ne∣ville, Earl of Warwick, his most intimate Friend. These having raised a good number of Troops, and back'd by a strong Party, made War upon King Henry. It seem'd as if Fortune had pitch'd upon the Kingdom of England, to make it the Theater of its capricious Chance: After several Battles fought with different success, the Duke of York being upon the point of giving another to his Rival, Andrew Tralop, an ancient brave Officer, in whom he much confided, unexpectedly went over

with all his Forces to the King; so that seeing him∣self thus weakned, he had no other way left than to retire as fast as he could. The Earls of la Marche and Warwick left him at that Conjuncture, the better to repair this sudden Disappoint∣ment, and having rais'd fresh Troops, march'd towards London, where having all this while maintain'd a secret Correspondence, they were ad∣mitted into that City, and the King oblig'd to seek for shelter in the Tower. Margarete of Anjou his Queen, a Lady of an undaunted Courage, ha∣ving, notwithstanding this, found means to raise and put the King and her self at the Head of a formidable Army, they sought for nothing more than to come to an Engagement: The two Earls being no less eager for fighting, they came to a Bat∣tle near Northampton; Fortune declar'd for the Earls, and the unfortunate King Henry was taken Priso∣ner.

Notwithstanding this good Success, the Duke of York finding matters not altogether to answer his Expectation, was willing to come to an Accom∣modation with the captive King: But the Queen more resolute, and less tractable than the King her Spouse, and not able to brook a Submission so little suitable to her Courage and the high Rank she bore in the World, positively refused to come to London, looking upon the Orders sent by the King as forced from him by his Enemies; but in∣stead thereof, leaving no stone unturn'd to repair their Disgrace, at last saw her self once more in a Condition to offer Battle to the Duke of York. This Prince despising to be challeng'd by a Wo∣man, a Bloody Battle was fought, wherein the Queen proving victorious, caus'd the Heads of the Duke, and the Earl of Rutland his Son, slain in the Engagement, to be put over the Gates of the City of York.

From thence she hastned to London, to see the King and deliver him of his Imprisonment; but receiving Intelligence that the Earls of La Marche and Warwick had carried him along with them, and were at the Head of a good Army, She En∣gag'd them with the first Opportunity, obtain'd the Victory, but enjoy'd not the Fruits thereof: For the Earl of La Marche getting to London before her, was there Proclaim'd King, under the Name of Edward IV. Henry and Margarete had no sooner Notice of this unexpected News, but they assembled all their Troops, and Edward fully re∣solv'd not to suffer them to approach London, march'd with all possible Expedition, in Conjun∣ction with the Earl of Warwick, towards Tanton; There he gave Battle to Henry, which lasted two days, and cost the Lives of 36000 Men: Victory at last declar'd for Edward, who having now no more Enemies to encounter in the Field, began to relish the Sweets of an agreeable Tranquility, and took effectual Care to reward the Fidelity of his Friends.

He was a Prince endu'd with all the Qualities re∣quisite to make himself belov'd; His high Birth and the Crown he wore, had a less share in the Respect and Love his Subjects bore him, than his goodly Air, and great Qualifications; He was very engaging, sprightly, of a sweet and tender dispo∣sition; He was a little too much addicted to Gallantry, so that his various Passions have some∣times been a Reproach to him: However his War∣like Inclinations always had the better over his Love Passion; for he prefer'd Martial Exploits to all other Considerations.

It is easie to be guess'd at, with what Demon∣strations of Joy this Victorious Prince was receiv'd at London; Among the rest of his faithful Servants was General Talbot Earl of S•…•…op; and this young

Monarch, to reward his Services, and to shew his Acknowledgment to all the World, bestow'd not only vast Riches upon him, but also honour'd him with his Confidence, which made that General to be highly caress'd at Court.

The Earl of Devonshire, having at that time some Business of great Moment to transact at Court, sought all possible Means of gaining General Talbot to his Interest, which perhaps he would not have encompass'd at a very easie rate, he being a Man of a blunt Conversation, who aim'd at no∣thing more, than to have the Reputation of a faithful Servant to his King, and of a good Soldier: But happening one Day to divert himself with walking in a Garden near Hampton-Court, and meeting accidentally with the Countess of Devon∣shire, he was surpriz'd, and quite dazled with her Beauty and Charms. As the Earl of Anglesey her Father, had kept her very retir'd at his own House ever since she had been married, for fear this growing young Beauty should produce some sinister Effects at Court; so nothing but an Accident could have given an Opportunity to the General of see∣ing her.

The General's Mind equally divided betwixt Love and Respect, would not permit him to ac∣cost her; so he contented himself with walking up and down in a certain Walk, from whence he could see her. Thus quite possess'd with the Idea of this Charming Lady, he returns to London, and so to Court. The King was then playing at Cards with several Ladies, attended by a great Number of Courtiers: But the Earl of Warwick was got at some Distance from the rest, in order to enter a certain Memorandum of Consequence to himself, in his Table Book. I told you before, that the Earl of Warwick's Name was Richard de Neville; but I did not tell you, that being bred

up along with the King, this Prince lov'd him be∣yond any of all his Favourites; and in effect, he had greater Obligations to him, than to any other of all his Friends. He was the Son of Richard de Neville Earl of Salisbury, Lord Chancellor of Eng∣land, and Alice the only Daughter of Thomas Mon∣tague, Earl of Salisbury. Tho' but young at that time, he was already a Widower, his deceased Lady being Anne, Sister to the Duke of Warwick. The Earl, whose History I am a going to give you, was a Person so far surpassing in his Personal Me∣rits, Courage and Generosity, all others at Court, that he acquir'd the Sirname of the Great. Never liv'd a Man in greater Affluence and Splendor, nor ever did any one things with a better Grace than he; He being so far from endeavouring to heap up Riches, or to husband his Estate, that he look'd upon Wealth as a thing not worth his Care: Notwithstanding this Indifferency he was the Richest Lord in the Kingdom. He had a Genius so far predominant above the common Rank of Men, that even those who had a Preju∣dice against him, and were ready at all Turns either to Contradict, or at least not to Credit him, no sooner heard him speak, but like Inchant∣ed Men, were compell'd to agree to what he pro∣pos'd. He was both beautiful and finely shap'd, even to a Miracle; His Magnificence and Gallan∣try, which was natural to him, made him both Lovely and Dangerous. The King loving him both by Inclination and Gratitude, had made him not only his Confident, but also bestow'd the Greatest Places in the Kingdom upon him. It may justly be said of him, That nothing could have bin above him, had he bin capable of apply∣ing his whole Mind to Business: But his Inclina∣tions for Love, and a certain Notion he had fram'd to himself, That even the highest Dignities

are purchas'd at too dear a Rate, when upon that account we are forced to sacrifice the Pleasures of our Life, made him sometimes stop in that Car∣reer wherein otherwise he might have carried e∣very thing before him at Pleasure.

This Character, upon which I have perhaps en∣larg'd a little too much, has insensibly drawn me away from General Talbot. He, after having look'd a little while upon the Gamesters, espy∣ing the Earl, drew nearer and told him, You are too Gallant a Person, for one to suppose you should write any thing else, but some Verses or other to your Mistress; And how happy are you, My Lord, to be able to make them! The Earl looking upon him, said Smiling; What! Is this General Talbot? Has he got some Relish in the tender Effects produced by Poetry? He made no answer, but lifting up his Eyes towards Heaven, observ'd in the Earls Coun∣tenance all the marks of that Ironical and Malici∣ous Air, which he was blam'd for by some. Alas! cry'd the General, I intended to make you my Confident; but you are not indulgent enough. The Word Con∣fident, rais'd in the Earl an extream Desire of be∣ing admitted into the Secret, since by his Sighs and other passionate Motions, he was sensible there was a Love Intreague in the case, and he cou'd not but be highly pleased to see such a Sa∣vage Creature, to be taken in the Snare of a Young Beauty. Don't be dismay'd, said he, at my Jocular way, I can be serious upon Occasion; I guess in part at your Thoughts; You are in Love, and you may assure your self, you shall find in me the only Man in the World, who is capable of giving you the best Advice. 'Tis impossible, reply'd the Ge∣neral, I should be in Love in so small a time; 'tis not above three Hours since I saw, and that for the first time, the Person that makes me thus sigh; but my Lord, continued he, Oh! How Beautiful is she!

She has a noble Air, without Affectation; there was ne∣ver a better Shape seen than Hers; her Complexion, the Colour of her Hair, her Features, to be short, every thing is charming in Her. I went to Hampton-Court, to pay a Visit to the Duke of Norfolk who has bin ill for some days; as I was taking a walk in a Garden, I saw the Earl of Devonshire and his Lady doing the same; he having desired me to serve him in a Bu∣siness of his, against one of my Friends, I did all I cou'd to avoid meeting him, as soon as I got sight of them, and therefore turn'd off into a By-walk where I thought I was secure from being seen; but alas! within a few Minutes, I found him and the Countess sit∣ting upon a Seat of Green Turfs; for it being then very hot, she was somewhat tired with walking: The Colour of her Cheeks resembled two white Roses mix'd with an Incornation; her Eyes carry'd along with them so bright a Lustre, that I never beheld any thing like it in all my Life; and to be short, my Lord, must I tell you over and over again, that she appear'd to me a most ravishing Beauty. You shall tell it me, reply'd the Earl, as of∣ten as you think fit for your own Satisfaction; I am extreemly pleas'd to see you so Passionate for a Handsom Young Lady, and fancy I shall see you before long work at your Needle, as Hercules did with Omphalis. Alas! said he, I am at a great Distance to see her as my Om∣phalis; you will see an unfortunate Lover, who is quite a Novice in the very Rudiments of that Art wherein you excel. Don't talk of Ignorance, answer'd the Earl, 'tis enough for a Man to Love, to render him quickly capable of attaining to every thing required in Love; and will you make me believe, that you were never touch'd with any other Beauty before? No, said he, I knew not what Love was, I will declare it to you by all the most direful Imprecations that can be. He was actually a going to call Heaven and Earth to Witness, when the Earl interrupting him, said, I believe you, my Lord, I believe you; I am con∣vinc'd

you never was in Love before: But pray let me know wherein I can serve you. You can, said he, in∣struct me in what I must do to be belov'd; because you understand it better then any other Man in the World. To do this, I should be acquainted with the Countess of Devonshire, reply'd the Earl, I should converse with her, and be admitted into her secret Thoughts, if I should serve you for a Guide; whereas now you put me into a Foreign Country, where I am igno∣rant both of the Language and Manners of the Peo∣ple; so that as the Case stands, I can scarce advise you to any thing but what must create new troubles to you.

I had the satisfaction, reply'd the General, of meeting with a very favourable Reception, her Husband as I told you standing in need of my Assistance, which I will give him to the utmost of my Power; but after all, to please the Husband is not always an infallible Rule of pleasing his Spouse. After all, said the Earl, it is a fair step in your Way, and it often happens, that those who please the Lady don't please the Husband; as on the other hand, all that please the Husband don't always please the Wife. He laugh'd very heartily at these expressions of the Earl of Warwick; and said he, since you give me such Encouragement, I am impatient to embark under the Conduct of so great a Master. At the worst, What Hazard am I likely to run? The loss of a Liberty, of what I ought to be weary long ago. I know not, said the Earl, whether you are weary, but this I am assured of, you ought to be asham'd of it.

They were so intent upon the matter, that they did not perceive the King had left off playing, who approaching nearer, and over-hearing the last Words; ask'd them, What it was the Gene∣ral ought to be asham'd of? The Earl was a going to divert the King with telling the whole Story, but that the General tipping the wink upon him to conceal it, he told the King, That he was blaming

the General on account of his Indifferency, and that he had made him an Offer, to exchange with him some part of his Sensibility, for the General's Insensibility. The King reply'd with a smile, He was oblig'd to the Earl, since he lov'd the General so well, as to be glad to see him engag'd in some Love Amusements.

The Description the General had given of the Countess of Devonshire, raised in the Earl of Warwick an extream Desire of being acquainted with her: He had indeed seen her before; but She being very young, seldom appearing at Court, and he at that time engaged with another Person, her Charms had not made any impressions upon him; it was no difficult matter for him to find out a plausible Pretence to make her a Visit: He pitch'd upon a Day when he knew the Earl to be abroad a Hunting; he pretended some certain Bu∣siness, and having contriv'd the matter accordingly, he sent to know whether he might speak with the Countess about some Business that concern'd her Lord:

She was then in a Grotto at the further End of her Garden, and the Season being very hot; He found her resting upon a Seat of Green Turfs, in a Silk Night Gown of Rose Colour, with Silver Flowers; she appear'd very negligent and pensive: The Countess of Anglesey her Mother sitting near her upon the same Seat. Notwithstand∣ing the Earl was sufficiently prepared for such an Interview by the Praises and Transports of General Talbot: This did not hinder him for relishing that Excess of Pleasure, which is com∣monly occasion'd by a Surprize of this nature: His Eyes and Heart both agreeing in this point, That nothing in the World was Comparable for Beauty to Madam Devonshire; And in spite of all his Na∣tural Boldness, for which the Earl was reprehend∣ed by some, and all his Contrivance to give a Spe∣cious

Pretence for this Visit, he stood so amazed, that, without being able to utter one Word, he did nothing but make his Bows to the Ladies, considering all this while what to say, without being able to find out where to begin.

Another thing that puzled him, was to find out a Place were to seat himself: The Countess of Anglesey would have engag'd him to sit down next to her; but judging he should not there have a full Sight of her fair Daughter, he set himself down upon a large Marble kind of Bason, which served for a Receiver of Water from another Vessel placed above it; here having taken his Seat, without reflecting upon what might happen, he began to enter upon Compliments, or to speak truly, upon such extravagant bombast stuff, that the Ladies did not know what to make of it: However he went on in the same road, till on a sudden finding himself cold and wet almost all over, he stood altogether surpriz'd at this new Adventure. You must know, that the Master of the Water-works seeing him under the Grotto, had made all the haste he cou'd to make the Waters play; which falling from the uppermost Vessel in∣to that whereon he sat, had wetted him to the ve∣ry Skin; his Surprize was such as to render him incapable of uttering one Word more, and the Countess of Devonshire, who not only look'd up∣on him, but also hearkned to his Discourse with a great deal of Attention, finding him Speechless, thought no otherwise than that he had bin ve∣ry ill: Give me leave, said she, my Lord, to ask how you do? He was a going to tell her, he did ve∣ry badly, which in effect was no more than the real Truth; but was so much startled at the Questi∣on, that he knew not what answer to return. Doubtless, said he to himself, she is sensible of what has happened; but if I tell her I am wet to the Skin

she will laugh at me; and if I remain sitting in this cursed place, I shall be worse ridiculed by and by. Whilst he was thus arguing with himself, he spoke not one word; so that the Countess of Anglesey ima∣gining no otherwise, than that he had actually lost the use of his Tongue, arose from her Seat and threw some water in his Face; crying, My Lord, Do you hear me? Yes Madam, reply'd he, bursting out a laughing at their Fancy, I both un∣derstand and see you very well, and if I had bin ready to fall into a Swoon, your Spring would have prevented it; and so he arose all wet from head to foot backwards. The young Countess could not for bear bursting out into a loud laughter, in spite of all the grave looks of her Mother; and this Gayety of hers, ha∣ing dispersed all the Earl's Splenetick Fancies, and revived in him his natural Vivacity, he entertain'd them with that Sprightliness of Wit they never had met with before in any other in all their Lives.

The Condition he saw himself in, not permit∣ting him to stay with them as long as he cou'd have wish'd, and remembring at the same time, that the Countesses Husband was not to come home till after the next Day, he only told them part of his pretended Errand, desiring Leave at the same time to refer the rest to another Visit. The Countess was willing enough not to refuse so indifferent a Favour to a Person of his Rank, nevertheless she look'd upon her Mother before she would return an Answer, and the Earl soon perceived that she staid for her Permission; the Countess of Anglesey told him, They would look upon it as an Honour, and they were too much concern'd at the accident that had beflan him, not to be desirous to be forthwith inform'd of its Consequences: I am afraid, my Lord, said the Countess of Devonshire, you have taken Cold, your Bath was not well managed. He took Leave of the Ladies, and returning to the

place where he had left his Chariot, his Peo∣ple were surprized to see him so wet, not being able to guess at the reason of it.

He was no sooner come home, but he threw himself upon the Bed, much less taken up with the Thoughts of his Health, than of that lovely Lady he had left behind, whose Idea had made so strong an Impression on his Mind, that he fancy'd eve∣ry moment to hear and see her; he was turmoil∣ing his Spirits with a thousand confused Thoughts, which all tended rather to encrease than to cure his Evil; but what most of all tormented him, was, that the Countess of Anglesey kept so watch∣ful an Eye over her Daughter. What must I do, cry'd he, with this Argus, 'twill be impossible for me to find out as much as one favourable Moment, to dis∣close my Heart to her: Sometimes he would flatter himself, that, if the Countess loved any thing at all, it was not her Husband, and that, accord∣ing to that rule, the Husband was less to be dread∣ed than a Rival Lover; but the more he thought of her, the more his passion increased.

His whole mind being insensibly taken up with these Considerations, word was brought him that the King was arising from Supper, so that with∣out more ado, he got up and went to wait on him; he no sooner saw him, but ordred him to follow him in his Closet, where he made him read aloud certain Letters he had lately receiv'd from France; whilst he was reading, he ask'd, because he seem'd to be bloated and much out of order, Whether he had bin Bathing himself? The Earl was not a little surpriz'd at this question; but not imagining the King could know any thing of what had happened in the Grotto, told him, That it being a Cold Evening, he had taken Cold. The King smiled with a malicious Air, and the Earl, being much discomposed, blush'd; The King who

observ'd it laugh'd out-right, and the Earls Co∣lour came more and more; the King much pleas'd thereat,

'Do you know, said he, that the Earl of Devonshire, has begg'd of me, to forbid you to Visit at his House; He is not a little jealous since you have taken the liberty of Bathing your self before his Lady. Ah! Sir, cry'd he, if you are acquainted with my Adventure, they have given you information of a thing of very slender Consequence. How, reply'd the King, Do you think I am not very well pleas'd, to know which way you dispose of your self? In good earnest, my Lord, added he after a few Minutes Si∣lence, What is it you propose by visiting this fair Lady? Have you any Business with Her Lord? Yes, Sir, reply'd the Earl, he was abroad a hunt∣ing, and I had scarce one Moments Conversation with her. You made your Addresses in a ve∣ry Confused Speech, said the King, you were not sensible of what you said.'

The Earl ima∣gining, that either the young Countess or her Mother, had diverted themselves at his Cost, found himself so touch'd thereat, that he reply'd,

'These Ladies were not surprizing enough, to put me out of Order as your Majesty imagines; I find nothing uncommon in their Persons. I would not have you talk thus for your own Reputations sake, continued the King, since it will be much better your disorderly Addresses should be thought the Effect of a Surprize, than of the Confusion of your Mind.'

Being touch'd to the quick at these words, he was meditating how to revenge himself upon the Ladies, when the King continued, Is it possible you should be in Love with Madam Devonshire, and take amiss her giving an account to her Husband of what pass'd in his absence? I don't part with my Heart, Sir, at so easie a rate, replied the Earl; If the

Countess were much more Lovely than she is, I would first be very well acquainted with her, before I entred into such an Engagement. The more you Know her, the more you will Love her, cry'd the King sighing; Nature never framed any thing more compleat than her self, She is one of her Miracles. These Words were utter'd by the King with such an air, as surpriz'd the Earl to that degree, that for want of Strength to support himself, he lean'd against a Cabinet unperceiv'd by the King, who being quite taken up with his own Thoughts, took no No∣tice of the Confusion the Earl was in; and he reading in the King's Face every thing that then pass'd in his mind, said to himself, Is it possible that my Master should be my Rival, and that he has bin so dextrous in concealing his Passion for the Countess, that I have discover'd nothing of it hitherto! Whilst he was ruminating upon the odness of this Mira∣cle (for it is no less than a Miracle, for a Sove∣reign to Love without Noise) the King cast his Eyes upon him, and with an air, which would have appear'd most Charming and full of Good∣ness in any one else but a Rival, told him, My Lord, you are very dear to me, I can't agree to your Destruction: But look upon your self as lost, if you fall in Love with the Countess; I must withdraw my Favours from you, and you will never obtain any from her: That haughty Heart of hers disdains all Slaves below the Rank of Kings, and I believe she would look with Scorn upon my own Brothers. Sir, reply'd he, I am sensible, as I ought to be, of that charitable Care your Majesty is pleas'd to take to pre∣serve me from suffering Shipwrack; but I sincerely de∣clare to you, that hitherto I have been in no danger: 'Tis possible that in time some Fatal hour or other might have constrain'd me to surrender my Heart to the Countess, in spite of all my Reason; against which, what I have understood from your Majesty's own mouth,

will serve as a full counterpoise. I would not have you imagine, added the King, that I disclose to you only half my Heart, I will give it you at full length, and confess my frailties.

'I was abroad a Hunting about Windsor; for the few days I staid there, most of the Gentle∣men at Court being busy in rehearsing a Co∣medy with the Ladies at Court, at my Mo∣thers, the Dutchesses Lodgings, and you laying ill of a Feaver, I had no other Attendance but those that were then in Waiting; These being but few in number, I lost their Company in the heat of the Chace.'

'The Sun began already to deline, the Sky became Cloudy, the Air pretty cool, and it Rain'd much; I had Rid very hard, was quite out of sight of the Hounds, and heard the noise of the Hunting Horns at a considerable distance; so that I thought it better to stay for their coming in a great Road, than go in search of them. I soon espy'd some Trees close and thick enough to keep the Rain from me, so I a∣lighted and sought there for shelter: But scarce was I got well underneath the Trees, when I heard a great out-cry, and saw a Woman whose Horse was running away with her and coming towards me: I soon stop'd the Horse, and cast∣ing my Eyes upon the Person I had saved out of danger, I soon knew her to be the Countess of Devonshire, trembling all over, and looking so pale, that believing she was very ill, I lifted her in my Arms from on Horseback. During the first Emotions, she did not know me, talking of nothing but Fear and Danger. Cease Madam, to be afraid, said I, You are in a Place of Safety; and I wish Heaven would afford me the same security it has been pleas'd to bestow upon you; but I am already too sensible how difficult it is, to secure ones self against

all these Evils, which are inseperable from the Plea∣sure of seeing you. Whilst I was talking to her, she had recover'd her self sufficiently to take notice of the freedom of my Conversation, and casting her Eyes upon and knowing me, How, Is it to you Sir, cry'd she, arising from the place where she was seated, Is it to you I stand indebted to for my Life? What words shall I make use of to shew you my acknowledgment? If you will give me leave, said I, to tell you what words I desire you would make use of, you will find them free from all Respect and Submission; my Wishes are for something more uncommon and more tender. She Blush'd, de∣siring leave not to tarry any longer so near me; What would the Earl of Devonshire think, said she, if he should find me with your Majesty alone in so soli∣tary a Place? He wou'd think me more happy than really I am, reply'd I; but he would not think me more sensibly touch'd with your Deserts and Beauty.'

'To speak the Truth, continued the King, I ne∣ver met with any thing more Charming in all my Life; Her Hair ty'd up in buckles play'd over her Shoulders; she wore a Close-body'd Man's Coat, which discover'd her whole Shape, which you know is to a Miracle; an Incornation Colour which succeeded that Paleness occasion'd by her Fear, produc'd a mixture of Roses and Lillies; and the contrary motions of Fear, and the suc∣ceeding joy of being deliver'd by me (as I flat∣ter'd my self) proved a signal addition, to those Graces, all the World allows her to be Mistress of. To be short, I look'd upon her with a satis∣faction I am not able to express; I would fain have detain'd her, but was afraid of displeasing her, because her Lord, who was in the next Wood, would doubtless go in search for her in all the Corners thereof: But seeing her upon the point of remounting her Horse, Is it possible, said

I, Madam, you should be willing to expose your self to the same Danger you were in just now? No, Madam, I must not suffer it; and if it be so, that you have Reason to avoid me, I will rather depart, notwithstanding the Violence I put upon my self, in thus leaving you; But, pray, promise to afford me some other few Minutes. It would not be becoming to me, Sir, reply'd she Modestly, to treat you with Indifferency. Never was a Man in a greater Confusion than my self; and whilst my Attendants were looking for me in every Corner, I had a Thousand distracted Thoughts concerning what might become of the Countess: No, said I, I can't plead in behalf of this imprudent Piece of Complaisance, I have left her alone in the middle of the Forrest, and that in such tempestuous Weather; How Cruel was I to my self, in letting slip so favourable an Opportunity of staying along with her! If any Mischance should befal her, how could I for∣give my self? It seems as if Fortune and Love had conspir'd to Conduct her to that solitary Place; but I leave her without Trouble, and thus lose a Jewel, the Loss thereof, I shall per∣haps have Occasion to repent of all my Life time.'

'After my return to Windsor, I told them at Supper, to require the Earl of Devonshire to send me his Hounds, because, having left at London, my Pack of large Hounds, I could not go a Stag-Hunting. I did not question, but that he himself would come along with them to Court, which he did accordingly, and was receiv'd by me as the Husband of a Lady whom I loved, and that to a high Degree. As I was oblig'd to act with all possible Precaution, in re∣spect to the young Countess, I ask'd him where he had bin the Night before, and why he did

not go abroad with me a Hunting? He told me, That, being not very well, he went out in his Chariot, but that his Wife being on Horse∣back, was in the greatest Danger imaginable, and ow'd her Life to a Peasant who had saved her.'

'I did not spend much time with him, but im∣mediately went a Hunting, and directed the Chace towards his ••…••…at, with so much Eager∣ness, that upon Sight thereof, it seem'd to me, as if it retreated backwards: But not to give any Suspicion, I, in spite of all my im∣patience, follow'd the Chace; but with so much Uneasiness, for fear the Stag should run at too great a Distance thence, that every Moment I was ready to let fly at him. Oh! Love, said I, kill him with one of thy Darts, shorten the Minutes, that are to give me a Sight of the Coun∣tess; thou can'st not do me a better piece of Service. I pretended to be displeased with the Stagg's being run down so soon, and the Earl inviting me to his House, I gave him no Op∣portunity of reiterating his Request. The Noise of the Hounds and Horns had brought this Young Lady into a terrass'd Walk, that lay level with her own Apartment, where she was walking with some of the Neighbouring Ladies and her Mother. Sir, cry'd the Earl of Warwick, interrupting the King, what brought her thither? She is no great Lover of the Coun∣try, reply'd he, but the Earl of Anglesey was not very well; That is to say, continued the Earl, with his Eyes lift up towards Heaven, that every thing favour'd your Majesty's De∣sign. I must own it, added the King; For, the Earl being altogether employ'd in ordering a magnificent Collation for my Entertainment, afforded me an entire Liberty of entertaining the Countess.'

'How uneasie have I bin upon your Account, said I? Alass! Madam, I feared every thing af∣ter the Danger I saw you undergo! And how of∣ten have I reproach'd my self with that Complai∣sance I shew'd, in thus abandoning you. It was ab∣solutely necessary it should be so for every body's Repose, answer'd she, with a smile, your Majesty was not far off, before My Lord Devonshire came to the Place; he ask'd me by what Miracle I had escaped the Danger of a furious Horse? I told him as it happened, only Sir, that instead of naming your Majesty, I mentioned a Peasant, who had saved my Life. This Secret you were pleased to keep, I accept off as a happy Omen, reply'd I, and I will flatter my self, that in so doing, you were willing to secure me against the Suspicion of your Overseers; and it is impossible, that since you would take Care of my Security, in respect to them, you should aim at my Destruction in regard to your self. She blush'd at my Discove∣ry of these flattering hopes, and said she, I was in perhaps the wrong to make a Mystery of so inno∣cent a Matter; but, Sir, Persons of my Age, have so little Experience, that it is a hard Task to act in every thing as it were to be wish'd. Ah! Madam! cry'd I, how cruel are these Re∣flexions of yours! Don't rob me of all hopes on your side, whilst on mine, I am resolv'd to love you with so much Tenderness, and so entire a Resignation, as shall fully convince you of my Passion.'

'She heard me all this while, without speaking one Word; but now lifting up her Eyes which she had kept stedfast to the Ground, And what will the World say, Sir, said she, when ever your Passion should take vent? They would say, that I was more happy in pleasing you, then in possessing the Crown of England. And, continued she, how

will this be relish'd by those who have an abso∣lute Power over my Sentiments? Let me ma∣nage that part with them, said I, Do you secure to me your Heart, and I will secure you against all the World. No, Sir, no, cry'd she, no Man living shall have my Heart, except he unto whom of Right it belongs.'

'I was so far engaged in Discourse with her, that her Lord was within a few Paces only from us, when she seeing him approach, without be∣ing in the least discomposed, spoke, as if she had answered me; saying, I am much delighted with Hunting, and go sometimes abroad upon Sport. The Earl not imagining we were upon any other point, desired me to enter a spacious Room, where a Collation was ready at Hand, contrived with so much Magnificence, that I could have wish'd he had spar'd himself part of his pains; But as I was almost distracted, to see our Conversation thus interrupted, I thought of no∣thing else than how to renew it. This was no very easie Matter to do, because the Earl of De∣vonshire was over-diligent in heaping his Civili∣ties upon me. I proposed to play with the Countess, and took the Spanish Ambassadour, who came along with me, for our third Man, because he understood no English. The Earl told me, his Wife being somewhat ignorant, I should give him Leave to instruct her how to Play more quiet and better. But I told him, That was the right way to disoblige me, since I could not bare any body should over-look the Game; so he went to take a Walk with some of my At∣tendants.'

'He was no sooner gone, but I acted my part so well, that having perswaded the Spanish Am∣bassadour I was weary of playing, because some Disputes were made about the Cards, I

was at Liberty to talk to the Countess, and She to answer me, without being perceiv'd by our third Person. Alass! said I, My Charming Countess, when you come back to London, what will become of me, unless I see you every day? Oh! I am afraid you will leave me, and that will cost me my Life. She smiled with a Childish Air, not telling me what was to be done to see her, without giving any occasion of disturbance, as I was sensible was the thing that she dread∣ed most; so the more I knew her Fear, the more I strove to make her sensible also of the Impati∣ence of a Man, not accustomed to Obsticles of that Nature; But all that I could say, was not sufficient to alter her Resolution, and, if she told me nothing that was offensive, she was very cautious in not saying any thing that was en∣gaging; so that, with all my Application, I could draw no more from her, than Assurances of her Respect.'

'I had ordred one of the Grooms of my Bed-Chamber, to dive into all the Circumstances of that Family, which he did so successfully, that having insinuated himself into the Acquain∣tance of a certain Old Lady, who had bin Go∣verness of the Countess, he found her of so Covetous a Temper, that in all Probability, she would not withstand Liberality: At last, after having talk'd with my Lady Devonshire for a considerable time, I left her, but so pre∣possess'd with her high Deserts, that, though she would not in the least flatter me with hopes of Success, I resolved to love her as long as I lived. Her Lord attended me as far as Windsor; I told him, I intended to go a Stagg hunting the next Day, and that he should not fail to go along with me, and spent some part of the Night in ruminating upon what she had said, and upon

what I had further to do, to insinuate my self in∣to her Favour.'

'I did rise before the Sun, to the Surprize of the whole Court, and was abroad so early, that the Earl of Devonshire came too late: However, he made haste to find me out, and met with a kind Reception from me: Under Pretence of talking of his Seat, I took the Opportunity to enquire after his Lady; She was, Sir, said he, the Occasion of my not being sooner with your Majesty, she is gone to London: I knew not whe∣ther he took Notice of my Countenance, but, I am sure it changed most strangely; however, he told me, that the Earl of Anglesey being ill when she came away from thence, was now very de∣sirous to have her near him because, as he took Delight in nothing, so he hop'd her Conversation might divert him. I recover'd a little, when I understood the Occasion of her journey, which caused me so much Vexation; But after having follow'd the Chace for a little while, I clap'd Spurs to my Horse, and taking a By-road, soon found my self alone. I alighted, and placing my self under the agreeable Shade of some Trees, gave my self an entire Liberty of employing all my Thoughts upon the Countess; What Plea∣sures, said I, did not I promise to my self? And must one Moment rob me of what I love? I have taken no Care, either how to see her again, or how to write to her; And must I thus be separa∣ted from her? I ought rather to have fain'd my self Sick, to get an Opportunity of staying with her, or ought to bring her back to Windsor, under any Pretence whatever. Alass! What am I the bet∣ter for my Soveraign Authority, if I dare not make use of it? I was then taking some Reso∣lutions, what to do for the future; but these were soon gone, when I considered they might

be displeasing to her. Thus, whilst I was strug∣ling betwixt my Desires and Fear, I saw my self fluctuating upon the Boistrous Waves of a Sea that is never without Storms; all this while bewailing the Departure of my charming Coun∣tess: 'Twas just then, I heard the Noise of se∣veral Horses, and the Voices of Women; I should have had but little Curiosity to look after them, but that coming so near me, I arose to avoid them; the first thing that offered it self to my Sight, was my Lady Devonshire; At that ve∣ry Moment, I felt all the Pleasure of an agreea∣ble Surprise; I run towards her, and without asking whether she would alight, nay, without knowing what I proposed to do, I took her in my Arms and set her upon the Ground; But in a Moment after, reflecting upon what I had done, I began to be uneasie; However, it being too late to be recall'd, I ask'd her Pardon, con∣juring her at the same time, to let me know, what unforeseen good Chance had brought her back; She told me, That the Axle-tree of her Cha∣riot being broken by the Badness of the Road, which required a day's time to be mended, she had resolved to return from whence she came. I then told her, What a condition her Departure had put me into, and that I had not left my Company upon any other account than to give my self over to my secret Thoughts, and to bewail my self for having pass'd a Day without seeing her. She seem'd to be touch'd with a thing which she could not very well doubt of, seeing me in this Solitary Place, where I could not be inform'd of the Mischance that had hap∣pen'd to her Chariot, nor propose to meet with her at that time.'

'Among the Women that were along with her, I took Notice of Albine, whereof I had had so lively

a Description, that it was impossible for me to mistake her. I had a great Inclination to have secured her into my Interest at that Instant; But Great People Labour under this Misfortune, That they can do nothing without being ob∣served: 'Twas also for this Reason, that I would not detain the Countess so long as I could have wish'd. I told her all that can be said or call'd Tender; But could not discover in her any other Disposition, than what I observ'd the day before; so I was forced to hope for some happy Moment to see her in London. In the mean while, my Eyes follow'd her as far as they could; I sent a thousand Sighs after her, and then return'd where the Noise of the Hounds call'd me.'

'The Earl of Devonshire being ignorant of what Mischance had befaln his Lady's Equipage, I told it him, and that I had met her upon the Road, thinking that it might prove of worse Consequence to make a Mystery of it, than to tell it as real∣ly it was; But I found my self in the wrong, the Earl acting here the part of a jealous Husband, imputed to our own Contrivance the breaking of the Chariot, and our meeting in the Forrest, and without reflecting that we could not guess the illness of the Earl of Anglesey, which they knew nothing of, till after I left them, he re∣solved to remove her at a good Distance from Court. I did not guess at his Intention, and soon put an end to the Chace. He had no sooner taken his Leave from me, but he ordered every thing to be got ready, and unwilling to confide in any body but himself, carry'd her away at Mid∣night; so that the poor Lady saw her self ex∣posed to those Reproaches she deserved not.'

'So soon as I got notice thereof, I return'd to Court, and the Old Albine, who had espoused

my Interest, told me, the Earl of Devonshire had desired my Lady Anglesy, to observe her Daughter more narrowly for the future; That we had had an Interview, and that doubtless she had answer'd my Purpose. This News pierced me to the very Heart, I writ to her, she sent me no Answer, except that she pray'd me with all possible Violence, to sacrifice my Impatience to her Honour. Judge you (continued the King) to what a Degree I love her, since till now I have kept this a Secret from you. I hear News from her every Day, and I shall certainly speak with her the first favourable Opportunity that offers. 'Twas Albine that told me concerning the Visit you made her, and that your appearing so much discomposed, had rais'd in them a Suspition you were sent by me, which would prove as un∣seasonable to me as to you: Take my Word for it, I will have neither Confident, nor Rival, love somewhere else, and never visit my Countess again.'

I have nothing to sacrifice, reply'd the Earl of Warwick, who by this time having had sufficient Leisure to recollect himself, and to consider of what he was to answer, told him: Sir, were the Young Countess as Beautiful in my Eyes as she appears to yours, I would certainly never think of her any more as long as I live, even if it should cost me my Life: But 'tis not I that am subject to this Fatality, 'tis General Talbot; 'tis true, Sir, he loves my Lady Devonshire with so excessive a Passion, that whereever he finds you to stand in his way, he will not be able to out-live his Pain. I can't imagine what you tell me to be true, answer'd the King, Who has told you the General is in Love? He who never was so before in his Life, a Person the most cautious and indifferent of all Men living? 'Tis a Secret he entrusted to me one Day, when your Majesty drew unexpectedly near us, said the

Earl, and I intended to have given your Majesty the Diversion of understanding it at that time, but that the General making a sign of keeping the Secret, I began to talk concerning his Indifferency, instead of his Passion.

The King return'd no Answer, his Heart being divided betwixt Love and Generosity. He lov'd the General out of Gratitude, but the charming Countess by Inclination; such was his Confusion, that to conceal it in some measure from the Earl, whose over Curiosity he not much lik'd, he left the Closet, and went into the Dutchess of York his Mother's Apartment.

The Earl came home overwhelm'd with a most profound Melancholy: Never did a Man pass a Night with more Anxiety and Trouble. Cease, Cease, Ʋnfortunate Man, said he, to adore an inac∣cessible Beauty: She is belov'd by thy Master, who notwithstanding all his Greatness and Addresses, has not as yet the least certainty of being beloved; and what then must be thy Destiny, if thou persists in so fatal a Passion! 'Tis time to abandon it, and to look upon this lovely Person as a dangerous Rock, which will stave thy Vessel to Pieces. He had scarce taken this Resolution, when retracting them as Frailties un∣becoming his Courage, and little suitable to that happy Temerity, which had so often stood him in good stead. Is my Passion so weak, continued he, as to give way with so much ease to the Torrent that opposes its Progress? Have not I taken notice of some favourable Looks in the Countesses Eyes? I have no more to do than to persuade the King, That if he con∣tinues to be a Rival to the General Talbot, he will certainly die for Grief; and at the same time to make Mrs. Elizabeth Lucy sensible of the Infidelity of our Monarch, that she may endeavour to reclaim him.

This was a Lady of Quality, whose Family had bin Famous for being employ'd in the greatest

Places of the Kingdom. In the Year 1173. Richard de Lucy, Lord Justice of England, was General of the King's Armies, during the Civil Wars; and ever since that time, this Family be∣ing inseparably united to the House of York, they were often out of Favour; Upon the Accession of Edward to the Throne, they signaliz'd themselves in their Affection for his Service. This was the reason why all his Favourites, but especially the Earl of Warwick, cast their Eyes upon Mrs. Eliza∣beth Lucy, to make her the King's Mistress; which they did without much Difficulty. This young Monarch, as I told you before, was the most Gal∣lant Prince of his Age, the best shap'd, the bravest and most witty of all Men living. Elizabeth on the other hand, was considered as a Miracle of Beauty, nothing was comparable to her Shape, and her Wit alone was sufficient to have set off her Charms, had they bin much inferior to hers: 'Tis true, she had a great Share of Pride and Haughtiness; She look'd upon it as her Due, to choose her Adorers out of the Royal Family, and that, without doing her a great piece of Injustice, they could not wear any other Fetters but hers. The King, not able to refuse her his Heart, at first visited her with much Circumspection on account of her Reputation; but it was a hard matter, con∣sidering the Ambition of the Lady, and the Love of her Gallant, to conceal a Secret of this Na∣ture for any considerable time; in short, she was for having it out. The King created her a Marchionness of Heresord, which new Title, as it procured her a great Court, so it occasion'd no less Envy in others. As now the King gave him∣self an entire Liberty of shewing his Gallantry and Passion to her, so it was soon divulged every where; and 'tis possible, that this manner of loving so publickly, took away the nicest and sweetest part of its Relish.

But whatever it were, he was most passionately in love with the Countess of Devonshire, and had a most tender Concern for General Talbot, when he understood his Passion for her: He was most sensibly touch'd, that it shou'd be He who was likely to cause him so much Pain; and such was his Generosity, that he would have sacrificed his Passion to him, had it not bin beyond his Power so to do: He check'd his Inclinations, and was vex'd that his Heart would not join with his Rea∣son in his Cure. To allay in some measure his Pain, he flattred himself, that the Earl of War∣wick, whom he knew to be a bold and dextrous Person, perhaps made use of the General instead of a Shield, wherewith to shelter himself: For, said he, there is but little Reason to imagine, that a Soldier, who never had any Inclinations to Gallantry, should now enter upon so mad a Project, and that to so little purpose. Ought he not to consider, that he is not Master of any thing, that may flatter him, ever to be able to please the Countess of Devonshire? She is one of the greatest Ladys in the Kingdom, both for Estate and Birth, nothing is comparable to her Wit and Beauty; she is more narrowly watch'd than the Golden Fleece; What is it then that can make him promise to himself such a Conquest? 'Tis true, he is a well made Person, but he is none of the youngest; Oh! Doubt∣less 'tis Warwick himself that is the real Lover, who thus thinks to put the change upon me. This Notion afforded him some present Consolation; but to be secure of the Matter, he resolv'd to try all Means of diving into the General's Sentiments.

The Earl of Warwick having, by this young Monarch's last Discourse to him, understood that one of my Lady Devonshire's Women was not of a very difficult Access, he judged he might engage her in his Interest, by giving her greater Presents than the King had done, looking upon this as the

most necessary Point for his Repose, in hopes to interrupt the Correspondence by Letters, be∣twixt his Master and the Countess, and in lieu thereof, to settle his own with her. He took also a full Resolution not to mention one Word to the General of what he knew, for Fear he should re∣sign every thing to the King's Passion, a piece of Generosity he look'd upon as not very suitable to his present Design. He went early to wait on the King, and spent the rest of the Day in the Apartment of the Marchioness of Hereford; but could not meet with an Opportunity to tell her, she had a most dangerous Rival, as it was abso∣lutely necessary, to set her to work, to prevent the King's engaging any further in this new Passion, and being uncertain when he might have a favour∣able time to entertain her, he ventur'd to write to her these Lines.

MADAM,

IT has not bin my Fault, that I am not now in a Condition to save you the Trouble of knowing, that the King is unfaithful: I have bin so bold as to represent to him, what Re∣gard he ought to have to his Oaths, and how much he was in the wrong, to prefer the Countess of Devonshire to you, since her Charms are so much inferiour to yours. What is to be said in the Matter? Madam, Love is blind, and the King is apt to believe, that my Inclinations to support your Interest, makes me careless of his: Thus my Councels become suspected, no∣thing but your Reproaches will be able to bring him back to you. If that proves un∣successful, I advise you to tell him, that you will make such a Noise of it, as will sufficiently re∣venge your Wrong. Don't be negligent in the Matter, Madam, but above all, don't sacrifice

me, since you have not any one Friend more devoted to you, than my self.

Elizabeth de Lucy had bin sensible her self, that the King had not the same Passion for her; but his Intreague with the Countess of Devonshire, had bin carry'd on with so much Secresy, that in spite of all her Endeavours, she had not bin able to learn any thing of it. This Letter of the Earl of War∣wick's, all at once unravel'd those Points which had occasion'd to her of late a thousand Torments, tho' in effect, her Case was not much amended by it: Being naturally of a fierce Temper, she had much-a-do to choose the milder Way; But as she had never as yet had any Contest with the King, so she, like a cunning Woman, rightly judged it more proper for her to try the King's Temper, before she discover'd her own; so she retired into her Closet, for Fear of discovering her Sentiments to those that were then making their Court to her.

As for the Earl of Warwick, he had had so little Rest, that, being seized with a violent Pain in the Head, he was not able to rise; and therefore gave Orders that he would see no Body. Soon after, in comes the General Talbot, and his Servants belie∣ving that a Person of his Character was excepted from their Masters Orders, they let him go in. The General appear'd to be beyond his Wits at the Earl's Indisposition, which perhaps at another Juncture he would not have bin; but now look'd upon him as his faithful Guide, who was to con∣duct him through a Country where he, as yet, was unacquainted with the Roads. Since that time I saw you last, my Lord, said he, I have met with a world of Adventures, and you will be perhaps sur∣pris'd as well as my self, how dextrously I got over them: I never thought Love cou'd have made me

so Cunning and Designing, and yet you will be o∣blig'd to own, that it has. Go on, my Lord, as long as you think fit, said the Earl, I can much better hear than answer you.

As I was last Night making my Court to the King, said the General, I found him busy in look∣ing upon some Pictures painted upon Glass: He call'd me as soon as he saw me; Have you any Skill, said he, in this kind of Workmanship? I drew nearer and told him, that the Light of the Candles was not very proper to make one see the true Perfections or Defects of the Painting; These are only Copies, reply'd the King, so there can be no great Loss in them; but among all the rest, I have a peculiar Fancy for this, said he, shewing me the Picture of my Lady Devonshire: The Seller knows not whose it is, without he goes to the Italian Painter to enquire, for whom he sells them. I have too lively an Idea of that lovely Person, continued the General, not to know the Picture, which cast me into such a Confusion, that I could scarce recover my self; the King's Curiosity made me tremble, so I was very careful not to name her, and told him, doubtless it was some Foreigner. Why? reply'd the King, Would you not have her to be an English Lady? It seems to me, added I, that she being so exceeding handsome, she must have appear'd somewhere or other. I assure you, continued he, I have some confused Remembrance to have seen her somewhere or other. Perhaps in France or Holland, said I; but for the most part, Picture-drawers draw their Pictures according to their own Fancies, such as bare some Resem∣blance to every Body. The King made no An∣swer, but fixing his Eyes upon the Picture, seem'd to be in a deep study, and so was I. How unfortunate am I! (said I) if I should have

such a Rival! A King so lovely in his Person, is more likely to be accepted of than I; Is it possible he should so soon leave his Mistress!

The Earl of Warwick did within himself admire the Oddness of this Adventure, how General Talbot should just come to the King, when this Pourtraiture of the Countess of Devonshire was brought to him. He could not immediately satis∣fy himself, what made the King pretend he did not know her; since some of those that attend∣ed his Person at Windsor, knew he had bin treated with a Collation at her House. But he concluded at last, that the General knowing no∣thing of that Matter, the King did it to be satis∣fy'd concerning what he had told him of that General's Passion. Whilst he was ruminating up∣on all these Matters, the General being amazed to see him so surprized, What is the matter my Lord, said he, Won't you speak to me? I told you before, reply'd the Earl, I was not fit for Company. I am satisfy'd, added the General, provided you will tell me only, what makes you to be so much surprized at what I tell you? The reason is, reply'd the Earl, (having recover'd himself a little) because it seems very odd to me, how any one cou'd offer the Picture of the Countess to sale, since, considering how narrow∣ly she is observ'd, I most question whether they would suffer her Picture to be drawn. Be that as it will, answer'd he, the King bought the Pour∣traiture, and charg'd me to carry it into his little Closet, where he intended to keep it, like a Jewel of great Value: Had he taken the least notice of my Countenance, he might easily have discover'd the Disorder I was in. As I heard him give his orders to bring the Limner who had made that Piece to him, I did not question, but that he intended to enquire after the Name

of this Fair Lady. There needed no more to make me rise early in the Morning; I went to the Picture-drawer, and having gain'd him into my In∣terest by a very large Present (and bought the Ori∣ginal, whereof the King has only the Copy) to tell his Majesty, That this Piece was drawn for the Fair Rosamond, the Daughter of the Earl of Clifford, the Famous Mistress of King Henry II. of England; and that, tho' the Drapery was some∣what too Modern for those Times, he should tell him, He thought fit to dress her according to the Mode, that it might sell the better. To be short, by the help of my Instructions, he an∣swer'd all the young Monarch's Questions to a Miracle, whereof I was a Witness, with an In∣tention to help him out upon occasion. The King would tell me several times, Truly Rosamond was a lovely Lady, I don't wonder that King Henry would never forgive his Wife the Murder of so Charming a Creature. Queen Eleonore, reply'd I, look'd upon her with a Jealous Eye; Yes, said the King, But as for my self I admire her; see what Difference there is betwixt our Sentiments. I made scarce any Answer to this, being afraid, lest, if I shou'd put Rosamond too far in his Head, he might thereby find out the way to the Beautiful Countess of Devonshire; so I endeavour'd to divert him from these Thoughts, by proposing a Match at Tennis betwixt him and the Duke of Gloucester. My only Comfort is, continu'd he, That he thinks no further than Rosamond, and that the Countess of Anglesy, who is very sensible of her Daughter's Beauty, and what Impression it might make upon a young Prince, so much inclined to Tenderness, does keep her up very close, without suffering her to come to Court, and that upon that Score she makes all the World believe she is most frequently indisposed.

But, continu'd he, as for my own Concern, I know how to manage the Matter, and intend to enter into a strict Friendship with the Earl of Devonshire. I told you before, that he stands in need of my Assistance, in a Business of great Con∣sequence; wherein if I should oppose, I might turn the Ballance on which side I please. 'Tis this that has made him entertain me with all ima∣ginable Civilities, and when I went to visit him, he entreated me to visit his Lady in her Apart∣ment. I must confess to you, That her Charming Wit accomplish'd what the Charms of her Person had begun before: I was so far beyond my self, and so bewitch'd, that nothing less than her Husband's Presence, could have hinder'd me from declaring my Love upon the Spot: However, I check'd my Sighs, but with so much Violence, that I was in Danger of being choak'd: Certainly never did a Man of my Age undergo so hard a Novitiat. Alas! I am no more surpriz'd now, that Love should even exert its Vigour among the Tygers and Bears: You may judge now, if I should be condemned to a much longer Silence, whether I would not immediately prefer Death to Life; and at the same time, it is no easie Task for me to get an Opportunity of speak∣ing to her, unless you will do me the Favour to go along with me, and entertain the Earl, whilst I do the same to the Countess.

This offer was too pleasing to the Earl of War∣wick to refuse it; for he had made several Trials of seeing her again, and went at divers times to pay her a Visit, but my Lady Anglesey, who was an Experienc'd Overseer, had taken such measures, that setting aside his first Visit, when, to speak the Truth, she surpriz'd them, she had always some Excuse or other at hand to send him away hand∣somely; so that when the General, who had got

a great Ascendant in that Family, desired him to go along with him, he was highly pleas'd with it. The Person he was to act, in amusing the Duke of Devonshire, was indeed not altogether suitable to his Wish; but he would certainly have gone under much worse Conditions, flattering himself, that at least he might by Intervals say somthing or other that would abundantly recompence his Labour.

The General took him in his Coach, because the Earl's Livery should make no shew at the Door, and for the same reason they took none of their Servants along with them; so that coming to the Gate, my Lady Devonshire thought she should see no body but the General, and tho' my Lord was then abroad, her Mother and she look∣ing upon him as no dangerous Person, admitted him without any further Ceremony. The Earl of Warwick was too nearly concern'd, not to take particular notice in what manner his Reception should be made; he found them nettled at his Presence, they both shew'd him a great deal of Civility, but the young Countess would scarce lift up her Eyes to look upon him; and if she hap∣ned to look at her Mother, she cast down imme∣diately her Eyes again towards the Ground and chang'd Colour. There is not the least question, but that the Sprightliness she shewed in his first Visit, being not approved of by my Lady Angle∣sey, she had given her perhaps a Lesson upon that Account, which proved not very favourable on his side, so that he found himself under no small Uneasiness; but the Pleasure he felt of behold∣ing so Lovely and so Extraordinary a Person, soon got the better of that Veneration which was occasion'd by the serious Looks of the Countess.

The General Talbot was not a little vex'd also to meet with my Lady Anglesey in her Daughter's Apartment; but resolving to make the best how∣ever of the Earl of Devonshire's Absence, he told them at his first coming into the Room, That he was come to entertain them with an Affair of Moment, and being placed next to the Countess of Anglesey, he judged he could do no less than enter upon something that might Divert, and make some favourable Impression upon them. The main Subject of his Discourse was such as he lov'd to speak of most: As for Instance, The Famous Siege of Orleans, wherein he was so much concern'd in conjunction with the Earl of Salis∣bury, where the Maid of Orleans began to sig∣nalize her self in so miraculous a manner; as also in the Battel of Patay, where the Earl of Suffolk lost the Day: The General did here Wonders, and they were both taken Prisoners by this Heroine. Neither did the General forget to enlarge upon the taking of Roan by the Count de Dunois; for it was he, who, together with the Duke of Somerset, did most bravely defend that Place, and who was deliver'd up as an Hostage, for the Payment of 50000 Crowns of Gold; but the English would rather have Mortgaged half the Kingdom than left him in the Lurch, whom they knew to be one of their best Generals, and whom they commonly used to stile The English Achilles. These being all matters sufficiently known, and the Countess of Anglesey was better acquainted with them than most People, being a Lady of great Sense, and of an Eminent Rank at Court; however, she would not interrupt him, and as he was very apt to speak very passionately of a thing wherein he had acted so Great and Noble a Part, and that the Presence of the Countess of Devonshire had raised in him an extraordinary Vi∣vivacity,

he would sometimes talk so loud, that the Countess of Anglesey, who set next to him, was not a little disturb'd with the Noise.

The Earl of Warwick was sure to improve these Happy Moments, in saying now and then some engaging thing or other, with a low Voice, to the Countess; and therefore under Pretence that he us'd to chaw Tobacco, held his Handkerchief be∣fore his Mouth, for fear her Mother should suspect something of the matter. He told her, He Adored her, That he desired nothing else in re∣turn, but her Permission to serve her with the same Respect as they do the God's; and, That he hop'd his unfeign'd and dissinteressed Passion deserved something of her Goodness. She pre∣tended not to mind him, but understood very well all he said; and the Earl was so much taken up with whispering, that the Countess of Angle∣sey spoke more than once to him, without recei∣ving the least Answer: Her Daughter was much concern'd thereat, and tho' perhaps she was not displeas'd with what he told her, she would have bin very sorry to see the Mystery unravell'd. What prov'd an additional Satisfaction to the Earl, was, when he consider'd that he had thus bubbled both the Mother and the General, and thereby had got sufficient Opportunity of decla∣ring his Passion. Their Visit was so long, that it exceeded all the Bounds of your ordinary Visits: The Earl of Devonshire did not come home, ne∣vertheless they made no Motions as if they in∣tended to go; at last, my Lady Anglesey told them, not without some Marks of Uneasiness, It was very late, and perhaps her Son-in-law would Sup in the City. At these Words they arose and went their ways.

The General vex'd to the Heart, at the Ill Success of this Visit, was ready to quarrel with the Earl on

account of his sitting next the young Countess, alledging, That since he lov'd her, no Body else ought to pretend to that Place; but this Ill Humour was so far from displeasing his Rival, that he was highly delighted with it.

My Lord of Warwick having discover'd fresh Charms in the Countess, both in reference to her Wit and Person, was afflicted to the Heart at the thoughts of her so Dreadful Overseer, meaning her Mother; and as he saw no Means how to be rid of her, Alas! cry'd he, Alas! Is this the Pros∣pect of my approaching Happiness! I am afraid I shall be expos'd to abundance of Trouble, without the least certainty of being recompenc'd according to my Desires. He was not only perplex'd with his own Misfor∣tune, but also forc'd to bear his full share in that of the General. He came to awaken him at Day break, to tell him several things, which would have prov'd but very indifferent Entertainment to him, had it not bin for the Name of the Countess, which being often intermingled in his Discourse, did somewhat allay his Ill Humour. The General had not bin able to hit another Opportunity to give her a Visit, because the Earl of Devonshire understanding how long they had staid for his coming home, had made him several Visits one after another; and as the General was not very happy at contriving Love Intreagues, so, what∣ever pains he took to find out a specious Pretence, his Stock was quite exhausted, so that he came to the Earl's in a very bad Humour. I am almost desperate, said he to him, The Earl of Devonshire has bin so often with me, that we have nothing more to say to one another; I have settled his Business much more to his Advantage than he could have done himself, and thereby have dealt unjustly with one of my best Friends; and after all, I don't find all this to be look'd upon as deserving any thing

at this Jealous Fellow's Hands; I have a great mind, said he frowningly, to pick a Quarrel with him? For, What Benefit do I reap from the Obligations he owes me? I see his Lady no more, and I protest to you I am ready to be choak'd, and this forc'd Silence makes me lose every thing that might be pleasing to her. To embroil your self with him, said the Earl, would be a very odd Method to hope for a favourable Reception from her: But you being better acquainted with him than I, let us pretend, That we have heard he has a mind to sell his fine Seat near Windsor, and that I am willing to pur∣chase it; let us go to see him together, and, if he is at home, you shall amuse him in Discourse, whilst I will talk to the Countess, and prepare her to give you a favourable Reception; if he be abroad, you may lay hold of this Opportunity your self.

The General highly satisfied with this Expe∣dient, embrac'd it with all his Heart. So they sent to the Earl of Devonshire, to know whether he were at Home, and were told he was not. This happening much to their Wish, they went thi∣ther immediately, but found him come home. This News put them almost in to Dispair, the Coach being already within the Gates of the Court-yard, instead of alighting, they began to consult what was best to be done, one was for going straightways into the Countess of Devonshire's Apartment, the other was for going back without seeing any Body; whilst they were thus disputing, the Countesses People look'd at them out of the Windows: At last, the Earl of Warwick so far prevail'd with the General, that he was to alight alone, and make a short Visit, but mention not one Word concern∣ing the Country-seat. The matter was perform'd exactly as they had agreed together, the General staid but a very short time with the Earl of Devon∣shire,

which seem'd to him a Year, and then came back to his Coach almost like a Mad-man. I am almost reduc'd to Dispair, said he to the Earl, I meet with insurmountable Obstacles in my Way; Were they made on purpose to plague me above all other Men? I have always heard them talk of Love as of a Secret Passion, full of Pleasure, without any considerable Intermixture of Pain; I thought it was sufficient to Love, to be belov'd again; to declare ones Love, and to have the Liberty of taking a Walk together; I have known a Thou∣sand who courted their Mistresses without much Difficulty, and a Thousand Mistresses that were not known but by the Name and Merits of their Lovers; but in my Case every thing is very diffe∣rent, I meet every where Dragons in my Way, whom I am forc'd to Combat. I could not speak to her I adore, and my Patience is put to the hardest Tryal that ever was. I have done, my Lord, I am quite tired of this way of Living, so far different from what I was us'd to till now, I am resolv'd to think of nothing but the recovery of my Liberty; this shall be my only Mistress for the future, and I am strangely mistaken, if ever I part from her again.

He would have continued talking with the same Violence, all the remainder of the Day, had they, at their coming to Court, not immediately espi'd the King. The Earl of Warwick quite tired with the General's Complaints, and his own Vexation for not having bin able to see the Countess, made all the hast he could to approach his Majesty, who seeing him alight out of his Coach, ask'd him soon after, with a low Voice, From whence do you come? Sir, reply'd the Earl, your Majesty may easily guess, since you see me with the General. I understand you, said he, But you are in the Wrong, not to endeavour to cure

him of his Passion; I know you are Malicious enough to encourage his Love by some Flatte∣ring Hopes or other. There is no great occa∣sion for that, said the Earl laughing, he is apt enough to indulge himself in what he thinks a Pleasure to him.

Whilst they were thus talking, the King en∣tring into his Closet, told him, I could not have believed the General would have Embark'd on so weak a Bottom, especially at such an Age as his, and therefore, the other day having a Mind to be satisfy'd in that point, it succeeded according to my Wish: For I had the Picture of the Countess of Devonshire Drawn without her Knowledge, which the Picture-Drawer, (pursuant to my in∣structions) sent to me to be Sold. The General happening to see it, was much discomposed; but what pleased me best, was, that he did all he could to deceive me. The next day he went to the Limner, unto whom he gave a good Summ of Money, charging him to make me believe it was drawn for Rosamond, King Henry II. Mi∣stress, who has bin dead above 300 years ago. I can't forbear laughing, when I consider how pleased he was, when he believed me to be so easily imposed upon, and I have now no more reason to doubt, that it was his Interest that made him Conceal my Lady Devonshire from me. I know all that your Majesty has told me, said the Earl, The General Proud of having Acted so nice a Part, came on purpose to tell it me, in hopes of being Applauded for his Conduct; and for my part, I was not backwards to shew my self a Man of Com∣plaisance. He will be obliged to you for it, as long as he lives, reply'd the King. But you came from the Countesses, Pray what News there? She was invisible to us, reply'd the Earl, She did not appear; but her Husband did. The General was

ready to Quarrel with him, because he had so little Breeding to be at Home, when he thought he had bin abroad.

The King return'd no answer to the Earl, but after pondering a little upon the Matter, at last told him, You see how all my Mirth is changed at once into Sadness, I am uneasie at what the General is likely to suffer, when he comes to be acquainted with the Intreague betwixt the Countess of De∣vonshire and I. Then you are happy Sir, cry'd the Earl. No, hitherto I live only on Hopes, reply'd he, and were it not for Albine, who gives me some Com∣fort, I would certainly act above-board with my Mi∣stress; For what is it I have to fear, and after all, how do I know whether her Governess does not deceive me? Your Majesty is above all this, said the Earl; But consider, whether it be not the hight of Pleasure to a Heart sensible of the Nicities so Love, to know, that you are perhaps the only Monarch in the World whose Love is unreveal'd? Yes, answer'd the King, I should extreamly de∣light in it, and relish this kind of Mystery in its utmost perfection, were I happy. But let us change the Theme: I am perhaps the only Mo∣narch, who has Patience enough to Sigh so long without knowing more of his Destiny than I do; I suffer my self to be guided by an Old Woman, I am afraid of disobliging the Countess, and suffer a great deal in hopes of one happy day. 'Tis true added he, This day is not far off; for I am to send the Earls of Anglesey and Devonshire to York, though under a slender pretence, their Bu∣siness being to inform themselves concerning some differences arose in those parts, whereof they are to give me an account. Probably your Majesty, said the Earl, will visit the Countess without any further Precaution, so soon as they are gone; I see only one Obstacle in the way, that is my Lady Anglesey,

who keeps a very watchful Eye over her Daughter, but we must give her a Dose of Opium. You divert your self at your own Pleasure, reply'd the King; you may be assured I am not acquainted with the Temper of that Old Dragon; but I have contrived the Matter thus with Albine, The same Night I have sent the Father and Husband to York, I am to come to a little Gate leading into the Garden, and in disguise, and so must you. How! Sir, said the Earl, will your Majesty take me for your Companion, perhaps to divert the good Old Governess? Much thereabouts, said the King; For you must knock at the Great Gate in dis∣guise, and ask to speak with her; so soon as she comes to you, you are to tell her, your Nephew has kill'd a Gentleman in a Duel, they are in search after him, he is hard by, and desire you would shelter him here only for one Night; He intends to go aboard a Ship before day-light, and you will Conduct him safely into the Nether∣lands. Hereupon, the Old Woman is to run Mumbling to the Countess of Anglesey, to beg her to suffer her Nephew to come into the House; and if she can get the Key of the little Gate, I am to go up by a Private Pair of Stairs to the Countesses Apartment. But, supposing her Mother should refuse to let you come in Sir, what will you do then, said the Earl? O, she certainly will, for she loves Albine, and will cer∣tainly pity her Case.

The King having spoken these Words, went immediately into his Bed-Chamber, and the Earl to his House; but so pierced with Pain and Vexation, that he threw himself upon his Bed, accusing his ill Destiny, and upbraiding himself for having delay'd so long to bring over Al∣bine into his Interest. He could likewise not guess at the cause of Mrs. Elizabeth Lucy's Si∣lence,

all which joyn'd together, made him ima∣gine himself the most Unfortunate of any Man Living. I shall never know, cry'd he, the ut∣most extent of my Disgrace: 'Tis my Master that is the cause thereof, who has pitch'd upon me for his Confident, and will have me go along with him to a Place, where I am not able to see him without dying upon the Spot. What! must I leave him at the Countesses, after I have taken all the Pains that possibly I can to get him Admittance? I would sooner throw my self into the Thames. But, after all, won't it be better to be there present; because I flatter my self, that some Accident or other may thwart the happy success of this Interview. Thus the Earl Tor∣mented himself, sometimes sitting, sometimes a∣rising; but all this while, so overwhelm'd and en∣tangled in Grief, that he knew not what Re∣solution to take: His Great Mind not used to Buckle, was not so much afflicted with having the King for his Rival, as with the Tenderness he supposed the Countess had for this Young Monarch. O! your Beautiful Eyes, cry'd he, What was it you would fain have told me at the very first time I saw you? What did you mean the o∣ther day, by those piercing Darts, so full of Sprightliness and Tenderness? Oh! why would not you cast your angry looks upon me, when I told you that it was you alone I adored? I should be apt to believe, continued he, that she hearkned to me for no other reason, than to Sa∣crifice me to the King, and to tell him the wole Matter; but she has kept the Secret: Tohwhat purpose is all this Mysterious Contrivance! What can be the reason she should be Careful of me of one side, when she Stabs me on the other? And supposing I should bring over Albine to my Interest, what Benefit shall I Reap by it, since

her Mistress loving the King so well as she does, she will find out means to see him in Private? Thus he pass'd half the Night, without coming to any fix'd Resolution; when on a sudden, some∣thing came into his Head that afforded him some fresh Hopes, and a little Comfort: He look'd upon the Success thereof, as a kind of a Mira∣cle which might produce a considerable change in his present afflicted Condition, and his Heart, which seldom used to despair, was willing to flat∣ter it self with good Success.

So, without troubling himself for the present, with the Concerns of the Family of my Lady Devonshire, he did not oppose the going of the Father and Husband to York; but immediately went to see Mrs. Elizabeth Lucy. How, Madam, said he, since you have thought fit to Sacrifice your Reputation in passing for the King's Mi∣stress, will you suffer with Patience to see him snatch'd away from you? Your Conquest will be attended with nothing but Shame at this rate. 'Tis this Night, Madam, That is to de∣cide your Fate; The King has not bin able hi∣therto to entertain the Countess of Devonshire in Private, but now every thing is prepared for his secret entrance there: Will you let this go on with the same Tranquility wherewith you have neglected my first Council? My Lord, said she, I have not bin insensible of the Misfortune that threatned me; I flatter'd my self, that my Dissatisfaction, and my Tenderness, might efface my Rival out of that Heart, whereof I once had the absolute Possession; I staid for some favourable opportunity of disclosing my self to the King: But since the Case is so pres∣sing, I must send to desire him to make me a Visit, that I might load him with Reproaches. That I may Cry, and that I may Threaten, I

will kill my self before his Face, if he leaves me. Nothing can be better, Madam, said the Earl; but I beg you, let me but see you Act one Part of this Comedy, that either I may Applaud or Correct you; for you know I am a Critick at Plays. No, no, my Lord, cry'd she, This is no matter of diversion to me, I never was so much Concern'd at any thing in all my Life; But, said she, after having paused a while, I know not how the King came to the Knowledge of the Countess, nor how it came to pass that she lov'd him so; you must instruct me in this Point. The Earl approving her Proposition, gave her an account of his Hunting at Windsor, and at the same time, charg'd her, not to mention any thing of this Evening's Meeting, because the King would certainly charge him with the dis∣covery thereof, having Communicated the Secret to no body else but himself.

There was no great occasion for the Earl of War∣wick to encourage Mrs. Elizabeth Lucy, she was too nearly concerned in the Matter, not to make use of all her Arms; and she resolv'd to take all the ad∣vantages she could. Her Nght Gown was of Gold and Blue Silk, Trimm'd at the Edges with pre∣cious Stones; Her Head was carelesly dress'd, without hiding the Lustre of her Coal-black Hair; She wore the King's Picture on one of her Arms, and in short, consulted her Looking Glass so well, that she had never appear'd more Beautiful in all her Life. Having sent a Messenger to the King, to desire him to make her a Visit, He did not fail to come according∣ly; for no Man could have paid her more Re∣spect than he did; and notwithstanding his new Passion, she had an almost uncontroulable A∣scendant over him. He was not a little di∣sturb'd at the earnest Message she sent him, and turning towards the Earl of Warwick, What

does she want with me, said he, can't you guess? Sir, answered the Earl, my Guess is, That she that is a Mistress of so Young and Handsome a King, as you are, does desire nothing more than to see him, to please him, and to take care of a Heart, in the Possession whereof consists the Fe∣licity of her Life: For the rest, I can't tell whe∣ther she has any other Business, which has o∣bliged her to send this Compliment to your Ma∣jesty. I will go thither, and pass away half an hour, said the King; for I am resolved that no∣thing shall come in my way, to hinder this Nights Appointment. The Earl being highly dissatisfy'd at these Words, to detain the King the longer, put him in mind, that he had promised to give Audience to the Spanish Ambassadour, who was ready to come to Court, and that he had better to pay his Visit to the Young Elizabeth after the Au∣dience was over.

Accordingly, the King delay'd his Visit; but no sooner was the Ambassador gone, but he went to his Mistress, whom he found Singing in a Me∣lancholly Tone. So soon as she saw the King, she left off; but the King desir'd her to go on: As the Swan, said she, near the Banks of the River Seman∣der, bemoans his Death by his last Song, so I foretell mine this day; yes, Sir, I foretell it, and reproach you with being the Cause thereof. He Blush'd at these Words, and gave her a Tender look; What is it, said he, you mean, to reproach me thus undeserved∣ly? She then laid open the Matter to him with Tears in her Eyes. The King surpriz'd to see her so well acquainted with the whole Matter, stood it out nevertheless most Boldly, telling her, That nothing in the World was more False; That he had never seen the Countess of Devonshire, except for one Moment at her own House, whilst he was at Windsor; and that ever since that time, he had not so

much as ever thought of her; That, if it were true, that he had bin so far struck with her Beau∣ty as she imagin'd, it would perhaps not have proved impossible for him to have seen her again; But his Opinion was, that some Body or other had contrived to make her kill her self with her own Weapons; because they knew he was a declared Enemy against such like Inquisitive Practices. The Marchioness touch'd to the Heart to see him stand it out so stifly to conceal his Infidelity, be∣gan to be in a most Furious Rage, and would not suffer him to stir out of the Room; and so soon as he began to talk of going, made most doleful Lamentations and Outcry's, declaring she would kill her self before his Face. As he knew very well, that my Lord Anglesey's and Devonshire's Journey would take up some days, he considered that there would be no great difference in his En∣joyment, if he deferr'd to see the Countess of Devonshire till the next Night; so, that he did not part with Mrs. Elizabeth Lucy till very late, which appeas'd her Anger a little for the present; and the Earl of Warwick, very inquisitive after e∣very thing that was Transacted there, understand∣ing that the King had ordered his Supper to be served up there, did not question, but that the Neck of the other Intreague was broken, at least for that Night.

Upon this surmize, he disguises himself as much as possible he could, and taking along with him Mr. Berincour, one of his Gentlemen, who for a considerable time past had bin his Confident in his Nocturnal Rambles, tells him the whole Con∣cern, and so trusting to his good Fortune, away he goes to the little Gate of the Garden of the Countess of Anglesey, and immediately sends Be∣rincour to speak to Albine. The Action he was upon, was so full of Temerity, that he himself durst

not make a due Reflection upon the danger that might attend it. He was to deceive the Young Countess in Personating the King; when at the same time, he knew not the Place of their Ap∣pointment, and whether it were to be by the light, or in the dark; He could not but dread every thing from his Master, if the thing should come to his Knowledge; Besides a Thousand un∣foreseen Accidents, as dangerous in their Conse∣quences as any of the rest. But his Natural In∣trepidity, and his Love making him consider all these Dangers, for no other end than to outbrave them; he went on as fast as he could, without he∣sitating upon the Matter: So soon as he was come near the Garden, he stopt a little to stay for Be∣rincour's return from Albine, who had managed e∣very thing with so much Dexterity, that the Earl heard her coming much sooner than he could or durst have expected, and turning a Key a Thousand times in the Lock, without being able to unlock it. Albine never made use of that Key and now was so much discomposed at this Accident, that she did not know what to do, all the Pains she took to open the Lock proving to no purpose, she at last broke it; She was then forced to tell him through a Cranny of the Door, that it was impossible for her to open it being in the dark and not daring to fetch a light; And that, for this time, she knew not what could further be done. The Earl, almost reduced to Dispair con∣sidering, that in case he lost this Opportunity he could not meet with another so suitable to his Purpose, since the King's coming in Person would soon unfold the riddle; and understanding what had happened, would bear him as much ill will, as if he actually entertain'd the Countess.

He was very Tall and Large, the Wall was none of the highest, and he had observed that day,

when he found my Lady Devonshire in the Grotto, that there were some Nails fastned into it; so he got upon the Shoulders of his Gentleman, who being none of the least, he scrambled over the Top of the Wall, though not without a good many scratches. He no sooner got into the Gar∣den, but he emptied his Pockets that were full of Gold, desiring Albine, with a Gentile Air, to keep them for him; She believing him to be the King, was very ready to accept them, though at the same time, she was under no small apprehension, lest this Intrigue, if discovered, might prove fatal to some body or other, and upon that score, was so far overwhelm'd with Thoughts, that, had she seen the Earl, she would scarce have known him. He went along with her to a Private pair of Stairs, when the Old Gentlewoman remaining below, told him, He would find my Lady Devonshire in a Room above. He was considering with himself, how to justifie this Treachery against the King, and her self, when approaching to a Door, some body took him by the Hand, he follow'd softly into a Chamber, where, without giving him lei∣sure to speak, he was told, What will you think of me, my Lord, I dare not as much as ask it? The Steps I now make, ought to appear to you so Criminal, that I am perhaps upon the point of losing all that Esteem you gave me such assurances of, when you came hither along with the General Talbot. The Earl of Warwick was surprized to such a degree, at what he heard, as to remain under the greatest uncertainty, what answer to give: By what Ac∣cident, said he, should this Person know, that I am not the King? For, though she does not see me, she is too well inform'd of the whole Matter, thus to mistake me. Is this a Snare wherein to catch me? Am I with my Charming Countess, or with some body else that intends to Trap me? He had not much time to con∣sider

of his present Circumstances, because the Lady expected his Answer, in order to continue their Conversation. I am so far confounded at this Excess of my good Fortune, said he to her, that instead of en∣tertaining any Thoughts that might be injurious to you, I find my Tenderness and Acknowledgment encreased to such a degree, as is impossible to be express'd. However, Madam, in the midst of all my Happiness, I must confess to you, that I want the Pleasure of seeing you, which I beg of you to afford me. With all my Heart, reply'd she, I will go and fetch a light. She went out to call Albine, who trembling for fear, had no power to come up, but had stood all this while at the Bottom of the Stairs, and was now ready to run out of her Wits, when she was ordered to bring up a Torch; For now she thought her self lost for ever, the reason was this:

You must know, that at the first Visit the Earl of Warwick made to the Countess of Devonshire, that fatal Star, which sometimes enforces a Heart, to enter upon an Amorous Engagement for the remainder of ones Life, had such a Pow∣erful Influence upon hers, that she did not take all the necessary Precautions to defend her self a∣gainst that Destiny which we ought to resist with all our Might. On the contrary, she Cherish'd her Passion, and as she had her Mind wholly taken up with the Earl, she told Albine, she would have no body speak to her of the King. This old Go∣verness, ready to run distracted at the Thoughts to lose all at once, the Benefit of such Rich Presents, took care not to contradict her Mi∣stress, judging that this would prove a means to unfold a secret, she intended to make her self Mistress of, for her own Benefit. Your Aversion to the King, said she, is not the effect of your Con∣siderations, Madam, but of something else, that pleases you; Pray, put an entire Confidence in me,

I will never misuse it, or give you any occasion of re∣penting. Alas! reply'd the Young Countess, of what an easie Temper am I? Albine, hear me with Patience; for I shall ease my self a little when I tell you, that I am Charm'd with the Deserts and Wit of the Earl of Warwick. As I am resolved never to enter into an Amorous Engagement with him, I will shun him with all my Power, making my Duty the only Rule of my Conduct; so I am prepared to un∣dergo the most cruel Torments that can be; Ah! what Comfort it is, for one to discharge ones whole Mind to an Affectionate and Faithful Friend! I entreat you to let the King know, how uneasie my Family is upon his Account, and that I beg him, not to entertain any further Thoughts of me; This being the only Favour I request at his Hands, in recompence for all the Respect I bear him.

Albine was at a stand what to do, since to break off an Intrigue she judged she had almost brought to its Period, was altogether against her Interest. She had a Nephew, who being a sensible Fellow, she made him a Partner in the secret; It was then agreed betwixt them, that nothing should be told to the King, concerning the Countesses indiffe∣rency for him; and that the better to conceal the Matter, they were to open her Letters written to him, and in lieu thereof, send some of their own making, Written in her own Name. Though this was a very hazardous Project, yet was it well relish'd by Albine, who was prolonging this In∣trigue at any rate. But as Albine knew very well the King's Impatience to see the Countess, and her Aversion to such an Interview, she pitch'd upon the following Stratagem: Madam, said she to her, if you will preserve the Earl of Warwick from Destruction, you must your self explain your Mind to him; For, flattering himself, that his Ad∣dresses, his Passion and Time, will produce in you some favourable Sentiments for him, this makes him com∣mit

every day a Thousand Extravagancies, to the ••uin of his Fortune, and of your Reputation? You are ••ell enough acquainted with my Lord Devonshire's Temper, so soon as he gets the least discovery that the Earl is in Love with you, he will certainly believe ••hat you love him also, and therefore I advise you, to see the Earl, and to declare to him, that his Hopes are very ill Grounded. Oh! Albine, said the Countess, what advice is that you give me, after I have dis∣•…•…osed to you the deplorable State of my Heart? Is ••his the way to cure me, to have an Interview with so ••ovely an Enemy? No, no, let what Fate will at∣••end him, 'tis better than to run the Risque of seeing him; my Eyes would certainly contradict my Words, and what a Shame would it be for me to betray my own Infirmities? 'Tis enough, that I am sensible of them my self, and therefore ought to take all possible precautions against them. But, Madam, reply'd this dange∣rous Woman, consider what an Injury it would be to him, if the King should take an Aversion against him, and my Lord Devonshire against you? And why should he hate me, return'd she with an Air full of Sweetness? Am I Mistress of my own Inclinations? Which have Cap∣•…•…vated my Heart, in spite of all the Power I have? Am ••ot I rather to be pity'd than blamed? No, Madam, continued the Old Governess, you would not deserve any body's Pity, if you refuse a Moments Interview to ••he Earl of Warwick, to tell him your self, that he •…•…atters himself with vain hopes, and that he ought the sooner the better check his Passion; But it may be, by that time he has forgot you, you will continue still to ••emember him. O! kind Heavens, cry'd the Coun∣tess with Tears in her Eyes! I am afraid, the Re∣medy you prescribe has a mixture of Poison in it: Ne∣vertheless, continued she, because thou shalt have no Reason to upbraid me upon that Score, I will spend a quarter of an hour in an Interview with him. And 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was upon this Expression, the old Governess

told the King, he might come to see the Countess.

She was under no small uneasiness, when she began to reflect upon the Success of this Ap∣pointment, how the King would relish the Mat∣ter, to be brought thither under the Notion of being the Earl of Warwick, and how the Countess would dispence with this Disappointment▪ when she discovered the Deceit, she look'd upon it, as one of the most difficult Points that had been manag'd for some Ages; But, after all, she remain'd resolute to venture at all, flattering her self, that perhaps the whole Intrigue might not be immediately unfolded; or that at the worst, her Lady could not be very angry at seeing so tender and Amiable a King, instead of the Earl of Warwick.

Notwithstanding all this, when the Countess call'd for Light, she stood amazed like one struck dead; However, having soon recover'd her self, resolved, without any more to do, to unfold the whole Riddle; so throwing her self at the Coun∣tesses Feet, and holding her by her Night Gown, she, with a Thousand Imprecations, ask'd her Par∣don, for the Innocent Deceit she had put upon her; saving, It was owing to nothing, but to her Z••…••… and Affection, to see her placed in so Eminent a Sta∣tion above the rest: She then told her, trembling, That it was not the Earl of Warwick that stay'd 〈◊〉〈◊〉 her in the Room, but the King who had continued con∣stant in his Love to her. This put my Lady Devon∣shire into such a Passion, that she told Albine, S•••• would never forgive, but hate her as long as she lived▪ and so, without suffering her to say one Word more, away she flung into another Room, and shut the Door after her.

The Earl of VVarwick was much surprized, to find the same Person that spoke to him, not to come again; and he durst not go in search after her, for fear of meeting some Body else, than what

he look'd for; whilst he was thus waiting for the Issue with much impatience he heard something coming near him, which said with a low Voice, Sir, I am almost in Despair, my Lady Devonshire is so Capricious, that she won't come here again; What have I done, said he, she should shun to see me? Her Head is full of Chimera's, added that Person, concerning your Passion for Mrs. Elizabeth Lucy; if your Majesty will be pleased to take my Advice, I would go out of the Garden imme∣diately, and leave the rest to my Management, to persuade her into a more Complaisant Hu∣mour. The Earl being a Person of singular vivaci∣ty of Wit, immediately discovered the Bottom of the Intrigue; so he told Albine, that he lov'd the Countess too Passionately, to give her as much as one Moments uneasiness, and that he would desire her to deliver a Billet in his behalf to the Countess, desiring at the same time, some Light, Pens, Ink and Paper, and that as soon as he had Written, he would leave the Room. The old Governess much pleased with the ••opes of his speedy departure, went to fetch a light; But guess at her Surprize when in lieu of the King, whom she expected to meet, she saw it was the Earl of Warwick; she stood stupify'd like a Stone, without any Moti∣on, except of her Eyes and Mouth, but with∣out being able to utter one Word: I am sensible, Albine, of the whole Matter, said he, though I want time to explain my self at this Juncture; Pray find out a way for me to see your Mistress; And I will make Peace both for my self and you. Follow me, my Lord, said she, but go softly, I hope there is one Door or other left unlock'd, for us to enter: Nor was it long before they found a pri∣vate Door, which leading into a Wardrobe, they went forwards, and surprized my Lady Devonshire, all melting in Tears, and lying up∣on

a Couch. The Earl threw himself at her Feet, before she was sensible any body was near her; Is it possible, said he, my Divine Coun∣tess, I should be so unfortunate as to see you shun me? All these hazards I expose my self to, in com∣ing hither, should not they be look'd upon as the true effects of my Passion? How! cry'd she, You must come along with the King; Oh! I little thought, my Lord, you would have acted his Confident here? Though I am not quite ignorant, Madam, reply'd the Earl, of his Sentiments for you, yet I de∣clare to you, I should have expired with Grief, before I could come along with him: No, Madam, I am alone, and come for no other reason, than to seek your Aid I stand so much in need of, to support my self under those Pains which are inse∣parable Attendants of an unfortunate Passion. I neither will, nor can afford you any help, my Lord, said the Countess, neither did I give my Consent of seeing you upon any other Account, but to clear you at once of those flattering Con∣ceptions, you have taken in respect to me. Go on Madam, make an end at once, reply'd he, Stab me to the Heart, here is my Sword; and since I have bin so bold as to lift up my Eyes to adore you, don't refuse me the Grace of being Punish'd by your own Hands: But if your Goodness would afford me some few Moments to enter upon my Justification, I could, Madam, make you sensible of the sincerity of my Passion. Do you remember, my Lord, said she, interrupting him, that you talk to the Countess of Devonshire, who can't be innocent as long as she hears you talk at that rate? Then cease for ever to love me, and to tell me that you do; for I can make you no other returns, but those of Ingrati∣tude? Oh! Madam, cry'd the Earl, I know too well, that I have flattered my self, you can admit of no Slaves under the Degree of Kings: You

judge not rightly of my Inclinations, answer'd the Countess, since it is my Duty that engages me; and I dare be so frank as to tell you, That were I in a Condition to make my Choice betwixt the King and you, my Lord, you shou'd have no Rea∣son of Complaint; but after all, don't presume upon this account, for no body will reap the least Benefit by it. These Words occasion'd an inex∣pressible Confusion in the Earl, in spite of those few Glimpses of Hopes he conceived in some of her Expressions, in entertaining him at so late an Hour, and in so secret a manner; but she still in∣treated him to desist, and not to disturb her Repose by such Addresses, for which she should think her self but little obliged to him. The Earl answered to every Particular with so much Respect and Passion, that at last she could not refrain from telling him, with a very melancholy Air: Oh! my Lord, How came I to know you! What a strange Fatality to happen to a young Person, who always led a retired Life! Alas! Madam, per∣mit me, said he, to bear some Share in your soli∣tude, I should think my self too Happy; and it should be the only Endeavour of my Life, and all my Care, to allay the Hardships of your Re∣tiredness by a Thousand complaisant Actions. Oh God! reply'd she, The Comfort you propose is too full of Danger; you must shun me, my Lord, and I must shun you.

The Earl was so much surprized with Admiration at a Thousand other pretty things she told him, that the time pass'd away very fast; and as, according to the old Proverb, A Lover's Watch goes seldom exact; so, had it not bin for Albine they had scarce parted at yet, tho' it was already break of Day. The Earl would have given any thing in the World, to have given enjoy'd the Charming Com∣pany of the Fair Countess for a few Hours longer;

but no time was to be lost, for fear of being over∣heard at going away; so he parted, but with so much Grief and Vexation, as is scarce to be ex∣press'd.

Berincour stai'd, for the Earl's coming, under the Wall, but there was no occasion for his helping him over it, as he was oblig'd to do before, Albine who attended him, having found Means by this time to open the little Door; and being by his great Promises entirely engaged in his In∣terest, she told him, She would, by representing to the King the Indifferency of the Countess for his Person, endeavour to Cure him of a Passion which hath a much greater share of Inconveniencies than Pleasure in it.

My Lord Warwick now overjoy'd at his Inter∣view with my Lady Devonshire, goes home, to be∣stow the best part of the Night in indulging his Fancy with the fresh Remembrance of so Charm∣ing a Person. He was scarce fall'n a sleep, when very early in the Morning one of his Servants came in, to tell him, that the General must of Necessity speak with him; immediately after he enters the Room, with so much gaiety in his Countenance and Actions, that the Earl, who knew him always to be of a grave Deportment, not knowing what to make of it, look'd stedfast at him, not without some Signs of Surprize; and, the more he observed the General to take notice of it, the more he appear'd to be pleased at it. What an Alteration! cry'd the Earl: What is the Matter, my Lord? May one be permitted to know some Part of your Secrets? Ah! my Dear, my Lord, said he, embracing him; you see here before you the most Happy Man in the World. Look stedfastly upon me: For, without Vanity, there is not a Man now living up on Earth who can match my Good Fortune. I understand you,

reply'd the Earl, you have found out a Cure for that troublesome Passion, which so lately play'd the Tyrant over your Heart; A Cure, do you say? reply'd the General abruptly, I would rather choose to die; you may take my Word for it, I am more Love-sick than ever I was; Then you have made some considerable Advances, said he, towards the Heart of the Countess of Devonshire; Oh! said the General, there you have hit it right: Pray mind how the Intrigue was carry'd on.

The ••imner, who sold me the Picture of this Lady, judging by the great Value he saw me put upon it, and by the Instructions I gave him to persuade the King that it was the Fair Rosamond's Picture, that all these things were not done with∣out very weighty Reasons on my side; and that therefore my Heart bore great share in all these Assiduities, at last began to be satisfy'd I was in Love with the Countess of Devonshire. As he was not ignorant, of how difficult an access she was, so he proposed to me the removing of these Obsta∣cles, which otherwise might prevent my having an Interview with her. I need not tell you whether I was ready to embrace his Offer, or whether I engaged him further into my Interest, by very large Presents; 'tis enough to let you know, that this last Night, when it was pitch dark, he conducted me into the Lady Anglesey's Garden, and from thence into a Grotto by the help of some Lights: Here I beheld the Countess with a more Beautiful Lustre than the Sun it self that gives us Light; she shew'd a Thousand en∣gaging Complaisances for me, and at last ask'd me for my large Diamond, which she put upon her Finger, and in lieu thereof presented me with this small Turquoise cut in the Shape of a Heart, a thing I shall always look upon inestimable.

Don't you wonder, continued he, at the oddness of Chance, how that things that seem to be some∣times at the greatest distance from our Hopes, are brought to pass by such unexpected Means? For, pray my Lord, consider, Who could have imagi∣ned, that a little Picture-drawer, should have the Management of a Person that is the Wonder of our Age? I ask'd him, How it possibly could hap∣pen so? He told me frankly, that in all Probability she would not have admitted him for her Confi∣dent, had she bin at Liberty to choose another: But that, he having work'd for a considerable time for my Lady Anglesey, he was consider'd in the Family as one of their old Domesticks, and had the Liberty of talking with the Countess, without being in the least suspected by any: That consi∣dering how lavishly I paid for the Picture, it came into his Head, I must needs be in Love with her: That he took the Boldness to discover his Opini∣on concerning me to the Countess, who fetching a deep Sigh, told him Alas! I am not so Happy, he thinks of no other Passion than what relates to Glory. That he thereupon recall••d to her Re∣membrance the Amours of Mars and Venus, and Hercules and Omphale. Upon which she reply'd, What you tell me are nothing but Fables. Now judge, my Lord, added the General, what an infi∣nite Pleasure such an unexpected Accident must cause within me; all my Hopes were before this confin'd to no more than to adore, without dis∣pleasing her; but now, I think, I dare pro∣mise my self, I am not hated by this Beautiful Lady.

The Earl of Warwick could hold no longer, but burst out a laughing, a thing he would not have bin fond of at another time, but that he had bin with the Countess the same Night. I find, said the General, (without giving him leasure to speak)

by your Mirth, you are overjoy'd at my Good Fortune. I am, reply'd he, to such a degree, that I should be less sensible of my own. The General embracing him, My Lord, said he, I be∣lieve my self the only Man in the World, who has so Good a Master, so Beautiful a Mistress, and so Tender a Friend. The Earl was ready to burst, to keep himself from laughing at the Gene∣ral's Fancy, of being belov'd by the Countess, and at his being thus impos'd upon by the Limner. This made him most seriously reflect upon the Frailties even of the greatest Men in the World, when once they are seiz'd with a violent Passion; and had his own, for my Lady Devonshire, not got quite the Ascendant over him, he would have abjur'd and vow'd, not to engage in it as long as he liv'd. I don't question, my Lord, said he to the General, that by the Assistance of this Limner, you will have frequent Opportunities of seeing the Countess? This is so great a Blessing, reply'd he, that were it only in my Power, I would not miss a Day of seeing her: But she is oblig'd to act with so much Precaution, that I dare not urge that point too far, for fear her Complai∣sance should turn to her great Prejudice. Some other Discourse pass'd betwixt them, all relating to the same Subject. Then the General took his Leave, and the Earl got out of Bed, in order to pay, forthwith, a Visit to Mrs. Elizabeth Lucy, being very impatient to know the Success of the King's Visit from her own Mouth.

She was still in Bed, but he had immediate Ac∣cess, because he visited her frequently, and that often by the King's Order. Well, Madam! said he, Have you got the Victory? Was it possible he should hold out against such powerful Charms as yours? Have you still a Rival in Being? Oh! my Lord, cry'd she, you can't imagine to what a

degree the King loves her; I know too much of it, not to be sensible of every thing, and not to have penetrated in the very depth of his Heart; What is it I have not discovered there? I was ready to run distracted; but barbarous Man as he is, if my Lameutations at certain Intervals touch'd his Heart, the Idea of my Lady Devonshire re∣turn'd with such an irresistable Power, that in his very Eyes I could read his secret Anger, if not his Hatred against me: But, after all, I would not have him imagine, that I will tamely fall a Sacrifice to him, but am resolved to venture at every thing, my Despair suggests to me. How, Madam! said the Earl, and could not you get from him as much as one positive Assurance, that he would love nothing but you? So far from it, said she, that he would not as much as own his Passion; but conceal'd it to the utmost, for fear I should give disturbance to a Person that is so dear to him. He is not much in the wrong on't, answer'd the Earl smiling, you seem to me not the fittest Person to be entrusted therewith. I am a going to write a ••etter to him, said she, and I will desire you to deliver it. No said he, don't let him know of my coming here▪ for as the least Accident might 〈…〉〈…〉 so it would diserable 〈…〉〈…〉 Well, 〈…〉〈…〉 by another Person; 〈…〉〈…〉 present when it is given to the 〈…〉〈…〉 and writ the following Lines:

IS it possible it should 〈◊〉〈◊〉 so 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and your Majesty has not as yet 〈…〉〈…〉 Messenger, to know at what time I died last Night? Certain it is, that and Body else but my self would have dy'd of Grief, tho' I am so 〈…〉〈…〉 as to survive it: I will flatter my self, that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 serves me, to taste the Plea∣sure

of Revenge. Yes, Sir, I am not ignorant of the Means to punish the Person, that robbs me of your Heart, a Loss that is irrepairable to me; which, since it has happened, I put not the least Value upon my Life: My Rival then must dread the utmost Efforts of my Despair, and your Majesty blame himself for ever, for having bin the Occasion thereof.

The Earl of Warwick was no sooner come to Court, but passing by the King's Closet, he was call'd in, and his Majesty senting himself in an Elbow-chair, told him, Have you heard nothing, of the pretty Parts the young Elizabeth acted before me? No, reply'd the Earl, I know nothing of it. I have nothing, reply'd the King, but Reproaches, Crys, Lamentations and Violence: I would above all things fain know, who is her Counsel-giver; since I can't imagine who should think it his Bu∣siness, to tell her of my being in Love with the Countess of Devonshire? and what is more, who it is that knows it? Albine understands her own Interests better, than to betray this Intrigue and her self; and the young Lady can't be so simple, to divulge it: Who then cou'd this be! I hope, Sir, said the Earl, your Majesty does not suspect me? No; said the King, tho' in Love-Concerns you are none of the most 〈…〉〈…〉 at least, reply'd the Earl, I was so in this. I tell you again, con∣tinued the King, I don't mean you. ••ut am ex∣treamly vex'd to see this young Woman in so dismal a Condition; I am afraid she will not out∣live it. The Earl, who had a mind to dive into the true Sentiments of his Master, told him with a Smile, I am apt to believe your Majesty ought not to be much afflicted, if she should die, since you loving another, she will be pestering you continually with a Thomsand Reprouches: In my Opinion, nothing is more troublesome, than

to please Two Mistresses. 'Tis true, reply'd the King, as my Passion is always sincere, so I shall find it troublesome enough; but as for you, who are the greatest Dissembler in the Kingdom, you would be able to have a Dozen or two at once, and impose upon them all, so that none of them should be the wiser for it. He had scarce spoken these Words, when Mrs. Lucy's Billet being de∣liver'd to him, he first perus'd it by himself; but after a little pausing upon the matter, read it aloud. There is a young Lady in a violent Passion, said the King, What is your Opinion of her? The Earl, who saw in his Eyes some infalli∣ble Marks and Returns of his Tenderness for her, told him, Sir, I hope, if she continues in the same Humour, she will scarce live till Night. What is it, said the King, she would have! she frames a world of Chimeras, on purpose to plague her self; Has she observ'd me less Passionate, less Generous, or less frank in my Addresses! What is it makes her believe I am in Love with another! Go you and pay her a Visit; assure her, in my behalf, that if she loses me, it is by reason of her Mistrust; and to be short, endeavour to make her as easie as possibly you can. But, Sir, said the Earl, if you are so much delighted in that new Passion you have embrac'd, Why will you trouble your self with another? Were it not much better to leave her to her own Despair? Go, said the King, and perform what I ordered you to do.

My Lord of Warwick rejoic'd to the Heart, at this Commission, went straight to Mrs. Elizabeth Lucy's, unto whom having given a full account of all that had pass'd betwixt them, they soon agreed upon what Answer he was to return to the King. He in the mean while diverting his Thoughts with Walking in St. James's Park; the Earl soon

perceived him advancing a great pace, without talking to any Body; but no sooner espi'd the Earl, when he ask'd him, How does this young Extravagant Lady do? Sir, said he, she appear'd to me not at all disturb'd: We soon entred upon the Point of the Affections and Goodness you had for her Person, and I conjured her, to believe you were the same now, without the least Change: That these Insinuations proceeded from her Enemies, who infused false Notions into her, on purpose to disturb her Repose, possibly thereby to check your Passion for her: That therefore she ought to be upon her Guard, and not to be imposed upon at that rate. She told me with much unconcerned∣ness, That, to her certain knowledge, she was in∣form'd of all the Circumstances of the whole Intrigue, that she flatter'd her self your Majesty would have made a sincere Return to her; but now she could hope for nothing, her Resolution was fix'd; and so, continued he, she turn'd away, and would not answer me one Word more, to what∣ever I could say; so, after having staid for some∣time longer, I went my ways: But as I was going along her Gallery, which is pretty dark, I felt something pull me back, and looking backwards, found it to be Eleenor, with Tears in her Eyes. My Lord, said she, my Mistress has certainly some sinister Designs in her Head, she intends to put an End to her Life; she ord'red me to get her some Opium, but to mention it to no Body. How! cry'd the King, Do you think she will be so foolish as to poison her self. Do you question it, Sir? said the Earl, Is not your Majesty sufficiently ac∣quainted with the Temper of the English Women, who despise Death as much as those Illustrious Roman Ladies that dy'd by their own Hands without the least Regret or Fear.

I must confess to you, said the King, with a very Melancholly Air, I am not proof against this Try∣al, I love her, and she is desperate, What must I do in this case? Sir, reply'd the Earl, you must love her absolutely, whom you love best, and let the other perish, or do as well as she can or will. Oh! I can't do that, cry'd the King, and so leaning against a Tree, continued in a deep study for some∣time till he who us'd to receive the Countess of Devonshire's Letters, presented one to him. At the sight of this dear Character recovering himself, he open'd the Pacquet with much Precipitation, but found nothing therein that pleas'd him; for she told him (as has been agreed upon betwixt her and Albine) That the Countess of Anglesey had made her a Bed-chamber, so near to her own, that they must pass through the last into the first: And that, since she must be lost for ever, if this Intrigue should be known in the Family, she begg'd him, not to disturb her Repose, by doing an Action, the Noise whereof, must needs cost her infinite Vexation and Troubles: And that he would be pleased to stay for a more favourable Conjuncture.

The Stile of this Letter being very different from that of the preceeding ones, put the King actually in a Passion, he tore it to pieces, saying, She deserved not the Respect he had always shewn her, and that the whole savouring very much of a Fickledness, he would make her repent of it; and that after having ruined her Reputation by the publishing of his Passion for her, he would compleat her Destruction by his Indifferency: That he intended to go see her in Person, and to upbraid her in the Face of the whole Court, with her Inconstancy. That would prove an infallible Means, said the Earl, of the Death at least of three People; Elizabeth Lucy will certainly

poison her self; General Talbot will die for Grief, when he understands that your Majesty is likely to traverse his Love; and the Earl of Devonshire out of Madness and Jealousy will kill his Lady. No matter, said the King, I am resolv'd once in my Life time to follow the Inclinations of my own Heart, without hearkening to a thousand Rea∣sons, that are contradictory to my Satisfaction. I don't presume so far, Sir, answer'd the Earl, as to engage your Majesty into what I propose, in good earnest: Madam Elizabeth Lucy is not de∣serving enough for you to offer any Violence to your Inclinations; General Talbot has acted a very unwise Part, to give way to such a Passion; and as for the Countess of Devonshire, I would advise your Majesty to make Love to her with Trumpets sounding tho' she was to be poison'd within a Quarter of an Hour after. Whilst he was talking thus, the King remain'd in a ruminating Posture, without answering a Word, and soon after return'd to his Palace.

Immediately after Dinner, he went to pay a Visit to his Mistress, whom he presented with a very rich Jewel; it was an Excellent Piece of Engraving upon a large Ruby of a most exquisite Lustre; besides which there was a fine Diamond cut in the Shape of a Heart; the whole Devise represented a Moon in a vast Sea, with this In∣scription, She causes my Calms and my Tempests. He told her at the same time a thousand engaging things, conjuring her, for the future, not to load him with Reproaches he deserved not. The Marchioness receiv'd it with equal Demonstra∣tions of Joy and Acknowledgment: She was over∣jy'd to find the Devise apply'd to her; not∣withstanding which, with Tears in her Eyes, she made some few gentle Reflections upon the King. And he, thinking he had done enough for one

Day would not urge her at that time, to discover to him the Persons who had given her information of these things; tho' at the same time he continu'd in his Resolution of finding it out. It was so late, before all the Articles of Peace were well regulated, that they Supp'd together. When the Earl came to pay his Respects to the King, and found himself at full Liberty, to speak his Senti∣ments, My thinks, said he to the King, I see in your Eyes, the Conquest of Madam Elizabeth Lucy, and the Defeat of my Lady Devonshire. No, re∣ply'd he, you are mistaken in your Sight: There is still remaining in my Heart, a very agreeable Idea, I am not able to efface so soon as I would. But, Sir, said the Earl, dare I take the Liberty, to ask your Majesty if really you could wish it so? The King, after pausing a while, reply'd, I don't very well know what I could wish, for I imagine to my self an absolute Felicity in pleasing the Countess; but on the other Hand am dissatisfy'd with her, and fear, lest Mrs. Elizabeth Lucy should die for Vexation, unless she has the Preference before the other. What then intend you to do, Sir, said the Earl? I am resolved to talk with my Lady Devonshire, added the King. This being the very thing the Earl dreaded most, either for fear of the Noise such a Visit would make in the World or the Jealousy the Duke of Devonshire might conceive thereat, or out of a just Appre∣hension, lest the Countess might be overtaken with the Deserts and Grandure of this young Monarch: But on which side soever he consider'd it, it appear'd very dangerous to him. Sir, said he, you may write to the Countess, to let her know, that, unless she will find out some Oppor∣tunity for you to see her, you know how to pitch upon a Time your self, let the Consequence to her prove what it will. By this Means you will oblige

her to act with all possible Diligence, and to sur∣mount all Obstacles: You may see her without making a Noise in the World, and you may save both your Mistresses. The King lik'd his Advice, being well pleas'd not to give any real Occasion of Pain to one, whilst he sought to please the other.

The Earl was no sooner return'd home, but he writ to his charming Countess every thing a Heart full of Love is able to inspire into a Man, especially when he flatters himself not to be hated by the Party belov'd; he being a Person of an uncommon Vivacity of Thoughts, and most refin'd Wit, his Expressions were so Nice, Natural and Noble, that his Wit prov'd as great a Charm to the Countess, as his Person. Being ready to die with Impatience, he desir'd Permission to see her again; but things were to be done with so much Circumspection, that they durst not so soon venture at another Nocturnal Rendezvous, which might prove of very ill Consequence.

However, they having found means to get the print of the Key of the Little-Garden-gate, be∣fore it was return'd to the Countess of Anglesey, Albine sent it to the Earl, who charging Berincour to have one made immediately after the same Pattern; he spoke about it to a Lock-Smith, who after a great many Exceptions (to enhaunce the Price of his Labour) at last, made one according to the Mould.

The Earl being extreamly glad to see himself Master of a Key, that could give him Entrance into the Garden, now expected, with the utmost Impatience, the next favourable Opportunity to make use of it; when the King sent him a Messen∣ger, before Day break, to order him to come to Court, He made all the haste he could, and found the King already in his Closet, much di∣sturbed

at the News he had received, that King Henry, his Rival, had obtain'd a certain Number of Troops from the Queen of Scots, besides 2000 French Auxiliaries sent him by that King, at the Intercession of Renault d' Anjou, King of Sicily, his Father-in-law; with the Queen, (that Amazon of our Age) at the Head of them. They have by this time join'd all their Forces said he to the Earl, and are preparing to march against ours: Go then, and with all possible speed join your Brother in order to make a powerful Opposition against the Efforts of the Enemy. The Earl used always to shew a great deal of Satisfaction, when∣ever he was to leave London on account of ap∣pearing in Arms for the King; but upon this Occasion he was too sensible, how much the God∣dess of Love, prevailed over the God of War. The King much surprized at his Silence and heavy Countenance, What is the matter, said he, you are so much alter'd that I scarce know you; it seems as if you were troubled at the Choice I have made? No, Sir, said he, I am very sensible of your Goodness, and am resolv'd to acquit my self so well of my Duty, that you shall have no Reason to repent of having preferr'd my Services to the rest. Ah! said the King, I find how it is; you are in Love? You have found nothing, Sir, reply'd the Earl, with a Smile, I am preparing to obey your Orders. He went straightways home, but full of Trouble and Vexation. He sent Berincour to speak with Albine, and to promise her any thing she could desire in the World, provided she would find out but a few favourable Moments, wherein he might bid Adieu to his Fair Mistress. She left no Stone unturn'd to do it; but in spite of all her Care and Industry, no Opportunity did offer, and my Lady Devonshire would not give a helping Hand to procure one. He writ her a Letter as

full of Passion as Respect, unto which, after some Irresolution, she return'd an Answer; wishing him a Happy Journey, and a Fortunate Cam∣paign.

Of this she was even ready to repent, as soon as it was done; and told Albine, What would be∣come of me, should this Billet be intercepted? 'Tis not enough for one to be Innocent; but one ought to act so, as not to appear blameable to any. Madam, reply'd the old Governess, you torment your self with things at a great Distance: Don't you know, that you have always reason enough to be sati••fy'd within your self, if you have acted no∣thing that is really blameable? But, Good God, Albine, continu'd the Countess, How can I be so? Was it fitting for me to write to my Lord of Warwick? In short, could I wish the Earl of Devonshire now to be my Confident. This and such like Discourse pass'd betwixt them, whilst her Letter was deliver'd to the Earl, who was so delighted therewith that for a time he could read nothing else but that.

However, in spite of all his Endeavours, not being able to compass an Interview, he saw him∣self under a Necessity of going for the Army; and having join'd the Marquess of Montague, his Brother, a Battle was fought near Exham, where∣in King Henry having the Misfortune to be routed, was forc'd to seek for his Safety in his Flight, leaving most of his Faithful Friends to the Mercy of his Victorious Enemies; whereupon Henry Duke of Sommerset, Robert Earl of Hungerford, and Thomas Rosse, had their Heads cut off by King Edward's Order.

Whilst the unfortunate King Henry was endea∣vouring to save himself by Flight, Queen Marge∣ret, his Spouse, who had, during the Battel out∣braved all Dangers, seeing all lost, thought now

of nothing so much as the Preservation of the Prince of Wales. This young Infant being now to her, the Dearest thing she had left in the World, she took him before her on Horse-back, and making the best of her Way to a spacious Forest, lay conceal'd there for several Days, never stirring forward but in the dark of the Night: But what should they do for Sustenance? the Forest afforded nothing but some wild Fruits, and the Child not being able to resist much longer, the Want of wholesome Nourish∣ment, and the great Fatigues it had endured, the disconsolate Mother sent up her most servent Prayers to Heaven, and imagining that nothing could be super-added to her present Misery, in travelling forward fell in among a Gang of Highway-men, who at first appear'd not a little surpriz'd at their meeting with a Lady of so Majestick an Air, and in so magnificent an Attire in so solitary a Place; notwithstanding which, they stripp'd her to her very Peticoat; but a Contest arising betwixt them, about the sha∣ring of the Rich Jewels they had taken from her, whilst they were preparing to fight for the Booty, she laid hold of this favourable Opportunity to make her Escape: So taking her Son in her Arms, she run, (notwithstanding this Burthen which Love render'd light to her) into an adjacent Wood. Here wandring about, till all her Strength fail'd her, she was forc'd to lay down upon the Ground: 'Tis in this Place my Dear Child, said she to the Prince, bathing him with her Tears, and squeezing him betwixt her Arms, 'Tis here the Queen of England, and the Heir to the Crown must end their Lives. She had scarce spoken these Words, when one of the Highway-men passing by the Place alone, where this Princess utter'd her Lamentations, she took Courage, and told him, Take, my Friend,

••ake this Child, said she, presenting to him the ••rince, save the King's Son. This Man touch'd with Compassion and Respect, received with much Satisfaction, this dear Pledge from this Princesses Hands, who being supported by him, made shift to get to a River, where she em∣bark'd aboard a Vessel, which carry'd her to ••luyce, from whence she went to Bruges, leaving her Son behind her in that Place, for fear he should not be able to undergo the Fatigues of a long Journey she intended to take, to solicit fresh Succours of Men and Money. As for the unfortunate King Henry, he retreated into a remote Place of Wales, but finding he could not time enough reassemble his Friends and broken Forces, went away in disguise, but was imme∣diately after discovered, taken, and carry'd to London; King Edward shut him up in the Tower, where he endured a long Captivity.

The Earl of Warwick, having left the Com∣mand of the Army to his Brother, to disperse the broken Remnants of the Enemy's Forces, up∣on his return to Court, could not reap the full Fruits of his Victories, by reason of his Passion for the Countess of Devonshire; though King Edward received him with a thousand Demon∣strations of Friendship and Esteem, and bestow'd uncommon Praises upon his Conduct and Bra∣very. The Countess of Devonshire her self, taking no small share in his Glory and safe return, was not averse in her self of seeing him; but there being certain Impossibilities, which made the Earl Languish to a very high degree, he wrote such engaging Letters to this lovely Lady, as served to remove all further Indifferency from her Heart.

Thus Matters stood, when the King going to a hunting Match in Oxfordshire, happened to pass

by so near a certain Country Seat, then inha∣bited by the Dutchess Dowager of the late Duke of Bedford; Regent in France, under Henry IVth King of England, his Uncle, that he had a Curiosity of paying a Visit to her. The Name of this Lady was Jacueline of Luxenburgh, el∣dest Daughter to Peter of Luxenburgh, Count of S. Pol; who, notwithstanding the great Lustre of her Family, had bin by the irresistible Power of Love, constrained to condescend to the marrying of a private Gentleman, named Richard Rivers, and that at a time, when the most illustrious Families both in France and England, sought for her Alliance: She had by this Gentleman seve∣ral Children, and among the rest Elizabeth Ri∣vers, a Ladv endow••d with all the advantages of Mind and Body, that render a Person of her Age most Accomplish'd. Her Parents being not Masters of an Estate, sufficient to make her ap∣pear at Court, marry'd her to one Mr. John Grey, a Person no wise Superiour to her self, and of an indifferent Estate; but being Natural∣ly inclined to Jealousy, constantly lived at his own Country House, and when he was obliged to be at his Post in the Army, used to leave his Wife with the Dutchess of Bedford: He happen∣ing to be Slain in an Engagement, whilst she was yet very Young, she continued with her Mother, so that this Family enjoy••d the innocent Pleasures of the Country, in a most perfect U∣nion; though her present Station appear'd very different from that high Rank the Dutchess of Bedford was once placed in in the World; for besides her Lords and her own Estate, she had a yearly pension of 240000 Crowns, a prodigious Summ in those days!

The King had taken a fancy to hunt in one of the fittest days for that purpose, the Air be∣ing

Gloomy, no Wind stirring, and without being incommoded by the Dust or Heat; He was then attended only by the Duke of Gloucester his Brother, and the Earl of Warwick, the rest being left in an adjacent Wood, to expect his return thither. Madam Grey happened to be walking in a long Walk, with Thomas and Richard her two Sons, in each of her Hands; being both so Young and Beautiful, that they resembled the Amours that are said to be of Venus her Attendance. She was in a plain, but very neat Dress, and her Person appear'd all over extreamly enga∣ging: Having never seen the King, nor any of those that were along with him, the first thing she did, was to pull a large Vail over her Face, after which, she saluted them, but without stop∣ping in the least, or casting so much as one Look at them. The King equally taken with her Modesty and Beauty, notwithstanding, he knew her no more than she did him, alighted and accosted her with that Polite and Noble Air, which distinguishes those that are Masters of it, from the common Rank of Men. After having saluted her, he ask'd with a Gallant Air, whether, being alone, she fear'd not some Paris or other, should act over again his Part with the fair Helen? She told him, that these Adventures were suitable only to the Age of Homer, and that in this solitary Place, they had neither a Paris nor a Helen. The longer the King heard her speak, the more he delighted in hearing her, and asking after the Dutchess of Bedford, un∣derstood beyond Expectation, that Madam Grey was her Daughter.

As they came nearer to the House, the Dutch∣ess, who look'd out of a Window of her Clo∣set, was not a little surprized to see her Daugh∣ter betwixt the King, the Duke of Gloucester

and the Earl of Warwick: She went out to meet them, and to pay her Respects to the young King, which Madam Grey perceiving, was under no small Confusion, considering she had not paid him the Respect due to his Person. He, who took No∣tice of every thing she did, soon guessing at her Thoughts, told her a thousand Engaging and Gallant things upon that Head, and that with so much Vivacity of Wit, that she never had met with any thing Comparable to it in all her Life: But, this so agreeable a Conversation lasted not long, the King turning on a sudden very pensive, in spite of all his Endeavours against it: However, he took up the two young Sons of the young Window, and bestow'd his Carasses upon them, whilst his Looks were very attentively fix'd upon the Mother. The Earl of Warwick not so much prepossess'd as the King, talk'd with the Dutchess of Bedford, and at the same time, took particular Notice of his growing Passion. He conjured the two Ladies to come to London; I assure you, said he to the Dutchess of Bedford, That the Dutchess of York will be overjoy'd to see you again, you having pass'd the best of your days together; it is but rea∣sonable, you should both recal those times to your Memory, and that, now I am King, I may do that for your Children, that I was not in a Con∣dition to do, whilst I was yet Earl of Marche. Madam Bedford and Grey, return'd their Thanks with all the Marks of Acknowledgments, and the King fearing, lest Notice might be taken of the Satisfaction he took in the Company of these Ladies, he took leave, though with much Re∣luctancy; but could not forbear to speak a thousand times of the fair Widow, as an en∣tire Piece of Perfection.

Some few days after, he told the Earl of War∣wick, she had made so lively an Impression upon him, that he could not live unless he saw her a∣gain; and yet he feared to displease her, if he should come thither again so soon; desiring him there∣fore, to consider of some way or other to bring them to Court. The Earl, who had a very piercing Wit, told the King, that, the whole Family having no considerable Estate, the on∣ly way would be to bestow some Preferments upon the Father and Brother of Madam Grey, and a Pension upon her Children, to be bred at Court, and a Place upon the Dutchess of Bed∣ford, under the Dutchess of York; And, that, Madam Grey engaged by all these Favours done to her Family, would easily quit her Solitude, to enjoy the Pleasures of the World. The King relishing the Earl's Advice, in a little time heap'd Favours upon Favours upon that Family: The Dutchess of Bedford with her Husband and Children came to London; but the young Wi∣dow, who was the Person most desired there, remain'd in the Country. The King vex'd to the Heart at her Absence, went on purpose to fetch her; He made her a thousand Reproaches, on account of her Indifferency; but at the same time, omitted nothing that might engage her to come to Court: You are too dangerous, Sir, said she to him, with a gay and most charming Air; Hitherto my Vertue was never put to the Try∣al, living alone at my own Home at the Bot∣tom of a Village, intent upon nothing but how to please my Husband, and to lament his loss. I have seen nothing hitherto that gave me the least Occasion of Fear; But, I am very sensible Sir, should I see you often, I should have great Occasion to dread you; I am also no less sen∣sible, that my Virtue will never stoop so low,

as to be your Mistress, and that my Fortune is not exalted enough to aspire to a Throne; I disclose, continued she, to your Majesty at once, what another perhaps would not have told you till after some years: But, I shall at least have this Satisfaction, not to give you any Cause of Vexation, by entertaining you with vain Hopes.

The King, who was not used to be so frankly dealt withal, having paused a little upon the Matter, told her, She might expect every thing from her Deserts; That he could never be Hap∣py without her; That he would give his Pro∣mise to marry her, but that it must be kept secret, and not to be disclosed upon any account whatever; since he had as yet many Enemies, who would not fail to improve his Marriage with her to his Disadvantage; That therefore he Conjured her, to put Confidence in the Word of a Prince, who adored her, and that, unless she came to London, he was resolved to find her out every day in the Country. The Lady look'd upon this Condescension in the King, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 not rejecting her Proposition of en∣gaging in so unequal a Match, as so signal a Favour, that she had no longer Power to refuse to come to Court, where she came to live with the Dutchess of Bedford her Mother. The se∣veral Visits the King had made to this fair Wi∣dow, the satisfaction he express'd at her coming to London, together with the Care he took in fitting up her Lodgings, occasioned an extream Jea∣lousy in Mrs. Elizabeth Lucy. On the other Hand, Madam Grey, who had no less her own Interest in view, judged it very requisite to en∣gage the Earl of Warwick on her side, which she effected by giving him peculiar Marks of her Esteem, and Confidence in him, such, as she was sensible he could do no otherwise than re∣pay

with Acknowledgment; She Conjured him, to cultivate for ever a strict Friendship with her, and to give her some insight concerning those Persons she ought to fear most.

The Earl overjoy'd at this Proposition, repre∣sented to her the Countess of Devonshire, as the Per∣son for whom the King had the most passionate Inclination: He desired her, to keep this as an absolute Secret promising to advertise her, from time to time, of whatever was likely to impair her Interest: So that, as often as he observed in the King some Relapses of his Tenderness for this Countess, he gave Notice thereof either by Word of Mouth, or by Letters to Madam Grey; who made use of Tears, and sometimes of Threats, that she would retire into the Coun∣try: All this was done so seasonably, that the King took all imaginable Care to conceal from her, the Frailty of his Heart, though at the same time, he let slip no Opportunity of obliging the Countess of Devonshire: He would write to her, by the Assistance of Albine, sometimes in the Language of a Lover, sometimes of a So∣veraign Master, but always like a King full of Passion; But the Deserts of my Lord of War∣wick, had made so lively an Impression upon her Heart, that in spire of all her Endeavours to banish him thence, he was always there present, this being the only thing she now took any satisfacti∣on in, and all the rest proving indifferent to her. She would not take the Trouble of Dressing herself, nay, she would blame her self to appear in any set Dress since it was not done to please him; Neither was there any Conversation she so much delighted in, as in that of Albine, because it was to her alone she could speak, concerning the Person she had already loved too much, for the Tranquility of her Life.

The Countess of Anglesey, who narrowly ob∣served all the Actions of her Daughter, did not impart to any body Living, the Surprize she was in, to find so strange an Alteration in her Daugh∣ter; but resolved to discourse her upon that Point, believing, that, considering her tender Age, and most excellent Education, she would not fail to make an ingenuous Confession: So, without insisting upon any further Preliminaries in the Matter, she took her Daughter one day into the Garden, at an Hour when it was yet too Hot to take much Diversion in walking for any considerable time, and leaning upon her, went into the Grotto, under Pretence of being scorch∣ed by the Heat of the Sun, and of having a Mind to rest a little there; but in effect, to talk to her in that Place with the more freedom. 'Tis impossible for me, said my Lady Anglesey, as soon as they were seated, to see you any longer in the Condition you are in, without asking the reason of it; I don't do this out of Curiosity, or Severity, to make you stand in awe of me; no, my Dear Daughter, my Intention is not either to chide, or to reproach you; 'Tis an ea∣sie Matter for one of your Age, to commit a Fault, that is perhaps not well understood; I aim at nothing else, than to provide you with Arms to encounter it; I would be acquainted with your Pain, with an intention to ease it: Believe me, Daughter, that in laying open your Heart to me, you run not the least hazard; but in shutting it up against me, you are in great Danger: Give me Entrance there, and be not a∣fraid, lest if I should meet there with a Stranger, I little look for, it should either surprize or raise me into a Passion; I will mingle my Tears with yours, I will be to you instead of a Shield, to protect you against the most dangerous Darts

of an Enemy, whom perhaps you alone are too weak to resist.

Whilst she was a talking, the young Countess was Ruminating what answer to give her, and what was best to be done in so pressing a Case as this; She knew very well, her Mother to be a Woman of great Sense and Penetration, she knew her to be ••aughty, positive in her Opi∣nion, and one who would not be removed from what she had once conceived to be true, let her say what she would: But, to Sacrifice the Earl of Warwick, was such an affliction, her Heart could not in the least consent to, since this Con∣fession must for ever Rob her of the Pleasures of seeing him. After all, her Mother's Discourse drawing to a Conclusion, an answer must be given, unless she would make her self appear Guilty by her Silence. She took immediately a Resolution what to do, and throwing herself at her Mothers Feet, Madam, said she to her, I own my self Guilty of a great Crime, in not having immediately revealed to you a Thing, wherein I ought to have had Recourse to your Conduct; 'Tis that alone I blame my self for, being for the rest sufficiently Proof against any Impressions con∣trary to my Duty. I will then confess to you in all sincerity, That which puts me into so Me∣lancholy a Humour of late, is, that I am so close∣pursued by the King; You will discover in this Letter his Sentiments for me, and mine for his Person; You will be sensible of his Design, of noising the Matter abroad, I tremble at the Mis∣fortune of my Father and Husband; I lived in Hopes, to tire him out by my Rigorous Pro∣ceedings, without provoking his Anger; But, Madam, see, see how angry he is! With these Words, She put the King's last Letter into her Mother's Hands, (which was delivered to her by

Albine) who having Perused it, burst out into Tears for Joy; and embracing her Daughter, My Dear Child, said she to her, don't fear any Man living, we are too Happy in so Vertuous a Daughter; How few are there, that would not be puff'd up with the Passion of son Amia∣ble a King? But how dangerous it is to trust him; You see his unfaithfulness to the Fair E∣lizabeth Lucy, and the lovely Madam Grey; both which he loved so Passionately, being Charm'd with their Beauties: Rest satisfy'd, That you would not be in a Condition to fix him as well they, because they have much more Cunning, and understand the Affairs of the World much better than you: Let, let the King alone, tho' at the Peril of all our Lives. The good Mother spoke these Words with a great deal of Passion, and affording a free Course to her Tears, the young Countess could not refrain to do the same: She remain'd all this while at her Feet, and were laying over the Matter with a great deal of Vehemency; when the Earls of Anglesey and Devonshire entred the Grotto.

They were surprized to find them in this Po∣sture; the Countess of Anglesey perceived it, and judging rightly, that nothing could prove more prejudicial to her Daughter, than if the Earl of Devonshire should get it into his Head, that she had bin reprimanding her Daughter concern∣ing her ill Conduct, especially, since she knew him to have conceived some Jealousy already, at the Accidental meeting of her Daughter with the King in the Forrest, and that he had told some hard and reflecting Words to her upon that account; She desired the Earls of Angiesey and Devonshire, to give attention to what she was a going to discover to them: You will, I don't doubt, continued she, Commend the Coun∣tess

of Devonshire, for her firmness and sincerity: Look here upon this Letter from the King, (she Communicated to me) full of Threats, in case she continues to treat him with Indifferency. The Earl of Devonshire took the Letter, a Colour rising in his Face, which sufficiently discover'd his Uneasiness; and being well acquainted with the Character of his Master, had the satisfaction of being an Eye Witness of his Complaints: He told my Lady Anglesey, he never questioned his Wives Conduct, knowing the Sincerity and good Inclinations of her Heart; and that it was an Action worthy herself, to prefer her Duty to all the Airy Ideas of Greatness. The Earl of Anglesey on his side, was not able to express his satisfaction; The young Coun∣tess said little, but at that Juncture secretly blamed herself, for not Sacrificing the Earl of Warwick, in the same manner as she had done the King.

Their Conversation being over, she retired in∣to her Apartment, to tell Albine every thing that happened; She fail'd not to give immediate Notice thereof to the Earl of Warwick, who judged, not without great reason, that the Coun∣tess and her Family would now not stay longer in London, since every thing would appear suspi∣cious there, and that he must prepare for a most Cruel Separation: What he had foreseen, came soon to pass; The Earl of Devonshire told his Father-in-law, That, since the King would not be easily repulsed, the best means to make him to think no more of the Countess, would be to let her Mother carry her along with her to Twit∣tenham; and his Advice being fully approved by the Earl of Anglesey, every thing necessary for their Departure was got ready with great se∣crecy. In the mean while, the King continuing

to labour under no small uneasiness, would fain have Visited my Lady Devonshire, nor would he have delay'd the Matter, had it not bin on ac∣count of Madam Grey, for whom his Passion ga∣thered new strength every day; and the Earl of Warwick left nothing undone on his side, to per∣suade the King, that nothing could be more Beau∣tiful, nor more fit to be Beloved than her; every Word of hers he Represented to the utmost ad∣vantage, and made the nicest Remarks upon what she never said, nay, what she perhaps never thought of.

The Countess of Devonshire being told by her Mother, that they intended to carry her into the Country, was most sensibly afflicted at this piece of News; She disclosed her Pain to Albine, but forbid her at the same time to let the Earl of Warwick know of it. But the Treacherous old Governess having but little regard to her Mistresses Orders, not only discovered the Matter to him, but also gave him to understand, that her Mistress would not be able to bid him Farewell, unless some unforeseen Opportunity should offer it self. The Earl was ready to run distracted at this piece of News, and walking very fast up and down the Room, when the General came in abruptly, looking very heavy and melancholy. Ah! my Lord, said he, I have heard something, that much disturbs my Mind; My Lady Devonshire is to go along with my Lady Anglesey to Twittenham, I have it under her own Hand, but what is worst of all, is, that there is a suspicion of an Inter∣view betwixt us; So, that being the occasion of her Lord's jealousy, and of the severity of her Mother, I am resolved to see her no more. What a Change of Fortune is this, for a Man who was so very Happy but lately! I Compassionate you, reply'd the Earl, but after all, you are fully assured

of being Beloved. That is but a slender Comfort, reply'd the General. Perhaps it will not be long before she returns, said the Earl, and imagine how acceptable that will prove to you. Rather imagine, cry'd he, what I am to suffer during her absence: I am to see her to Morrow to take my leave of her, and this faithful Limner has bin forced to take a great deal of Pains to procure me that happy Moment. The Earl Congratulated him, and his Head being too full to permit him to detain the General by insignificant questions, He only told him, That he was as much concerned at this Mishap as if it were his own, and that he hoped that he would do him so much justice, as to believe that he was as sensibly touch'd with it as himself co••ld be.

So soon as he was at Liberty, he made use of all his Wit and Charms, which he knew how to make appear in their utmost Lustre when he resolved to do it, to persuade the Countess, That if she departed without permitting him to see her, he should infallibly die of Grief. She being most sensibly touch'd with the tender and submissive Expressions of this Letter would perhaps have bin inclinable enough to afford him this Favour, but knew not how to hazard a thing of that Consequence, in a House which then contained so numerous a Family; She consulted about the Matter the same Evening with Albine. The old Governess had scarce Patience enough to hear the Countess putting her in Mind of the Jealousy and Courage of the Earl of Devonshire, and that in case the Earl of Warwick should be discovered, he would be but scurvily used. Albine, I say, having a greater share of Avarice than Prudence, reply'd, Let the worst come to the worst, the Earl might pretend he was sent thither by the King, and so he need not fear any ill usage, since that would be

the way to provoke the King to the highest de∣gree. The Countess did not give her Consent, without a great deal of Reluctancy, having ob∣served for several days last past, that they were more jealous of her than formerly, and knowing, that upon the least suspicion, the whole Family would take the Alarm: But, how easie is it to overcome a young Woman prepossess'd in the Favour of him she likes! Albine promised to re∣move all obstacles, adding, That the Earl of Warwick would infallibly die for Grief, if he should be made sensible of her positiveness in this point; And there needed no more to convince the Coun∣tess, that she might see him without much dan∣ger.

You will easily imagine, he would not miss the Assignation, for though that was to be late at Night, he fail'd not to rise very early in the Morning, and such was his impatience, that he thought the day would never be at an end: What did not he say to the Sun! Every thing a Lover was capable of, in his Amorous Frenzies. He call'd Night a Thousand times to his Aid, and no sooner had the Sky covered it self with its Black Vail, but wrapt up in a Cloak, and at∣tended only by his faithful Berincour, he comes to the little Garden Gate, not questioning but that his new Key, which he had never try'd before, would open it without Trouble: But all this Care and Pains proved fruitless; for the Key broke in the Lock. What was now to be done after such a mishap? Nothing else but to get over the Wall, or else to return from whence he came. But, as he would rather have chosen to die in attempting the first, than to free himself from all danger by the last, so, without hesitating upon the Matter, he Clambred up to the top, as he had done once before, and was just upon the point

of leaping into the Garden, when he saw abun∣dance of People with Flambeaux, who appear'd as if they were searching after something. In ef∣fect my Lady Anglesey having lost the Pourtrai∣ture of the Dutchess of York she constantly wore on her Arm had not perceived it till after it was Dark, and having caused, but in vain, to search all the Apartments, she ordered all the Walks of the Garden to be narrowly view'd, for fear the weight of the Gold and Diamonds might make it sink into the Sand.

As all the Domesticks were not equally intent upon the Matter, some, who happened to look upwards, perceived the Earl of Warwick just ready to leap into the Garden; and not doubting but that he was a Thief cry'd out as fast as they could. The Earl seeing there was no better way to choose, than to retire in all haste; But, his Gen∣tleman being at some distance, as not imagining he would return so soon, he was forced to get down without his Assistance; so that by a Fall, he Wounded his Arm, in so much, that he thought it had bin broken: But, though it proved ex∣cessive Painful, he made all the haste he could, to get away from that fatal Place, where he had flat∣tred himself to get Sight of his so dearly Beloved Lady: He walk'd very fast, and sometimes look∣ing behind him, would ask his Gentleman, whe∣ther they were pursued by any body? This being overheard by a certain Person that pass'd by accidentally, and he believing them to be Thieves, gave Notice thereof to the Watch, who fell upon, and surrounded them before they could make use of their Swords to defend themselves. The Leader of the Watch, being a Brutish Fel∣low and Drunk, ask'd the Earl, who he was, from whence he came, and where he intended to go? It was thought fit to return him no answer,

partly out of disdain, partly out of necessity not to make a Noise they being as yet but at a little distance from the Garden, and they supposed, as actually it happened that the Earls of Anglesey and Devonshire knew by this time, there had bin some body seen upon the Wall: Besides, some going to take a view of the little Gate of the Garden, and finding a Key broken within the Lock, this caused no small uneasiness in the Fa∣mily, and the Matter being canvass'd over and over, the Earl of Devonshire discovered somewhat of a Secret Jealousy. The poor Countess, saw her Projects vanish into Smoak, and the necessity of departing, rendred her almost inconsolable; Besides, she durst not discover her Trouble, so that, though she conceal'd it as much as she could, yet there appear'd in her Eyes a certain Emotion, which might easily have bin observed.

But to return to the Earl of Warwick, who finding himself surrounded by the Watch, thought it his best way to get rid of them, by bestow∣ing a good Handful of Money upon the Leader, not questioning, but that so he might be dis∣miss'd, without being put to the trouble of discovering his Name: He had fill'd his Pockets with Gold Pieces he intended for Albine; but missing of her, offer'd them to the Leader of the Watch: But his Profusedness proved mischievous to him; for this Man, now judging they had com∣mitted some great Robbery, and perceiving him to be Wounded in the Arm, and to be very careful in hiding his Face, was resolved to detain him, it being a Custom here, to stop and keep in Cu∣stody all such as will not discover themselves, if they are met by the Watch in the Night time. There are certain Benches fastned on every Corner of London Streets, to the Walls of the Houses, whereon such as are taken upon Suspi∣cion

are to sit, with their Legs put thro' certain Holes made in two Boards, fitted and joyn'd one above the other; a Diversion not very well agreeing with those who are used to more conve∣nient Seats. The Earl perceiving what Quarters were prepared for him once more took the Head of the Watch aside, and told him, That if he would not put him into that Place, but let him go, he would entrust him with his Name, and that he was the Earl of Warwick: Upon this, the Head Officer, who did not take Notice of his Garter, nor of the Embroidered Star the Knights of that Order always wear upon their Coats, not doubting but that he was an Imposture, Go, said he, did not I suspect thee before to be a Rogue? Thy Impudence to assume the Name of so Great a Man, fully convinces me of it: And so, without hearkning any further to his Discourse, he put his Legs into the Stocks, with a Resolution to carry both him and his Gentleman to my Lord Warwick, as soon as it should be day-light.

I give you leave to guess at the Confusion he was in upon so odd an Accident. Did ever since the beginning of the World, said he to Berincour, happen any Adventure like this? I would be tolerably well contented, had I but taken my Leave of the Countess; but now am so unfortunate, as not to be able to see her before she is carry'd into the Country: Besides that, the Wound I have in my Arm will require some time to be cured; so, that all the unlucky Accidents seems now to center in mine. I defy thee, Ca∣pricious Fortune, cry'd he, to treat me worse than thou hast done. However, after some short Re∣flections, added he, Who is it in all England that would not choose to be in my Place, and be at this very time where I am now, seated upon a

Bench at the Corner of a Street, with my Legs put through so many Holes, and lock'd close within the Boards? And this is the Station, those who would wish themselves in my Place, must be in, in spite of themselves: For, I can assure you, I am here contrary to my Inclinations. My Lord, said his Gentleman, this will be over by Day∣light, and he that could be my Lord Warwick upon this Condition, would have no ill Bargain of it for the remainder of his Life. I know not what you may think of it, said he, as for my Part, I would rather choose to be a Porter; for he Works all Day, and at Night relishes the Pleasures of a sweet Tranquillity, more than a General after the gaining of a Battel; he has no Master, and consequently is under no constraint of pleasing him; has he a Mistress, he goes to see her with∣out controul; he enjoys Health, and is never without a good Appetite; if his Wife's obstrope∣rous, he beats her into good Manners; he dreads neither the Great Ones nor the Thieves, his For∣tune is always in the same Station; his Prince knows not whether there be such a Man upon Earth, and that Place is the best to him where he can live best. Now what Comparison is there betwixt such a Man and a Courtier, such as I am? Such as you are, my Lord, cry'd Berincour, was ever a Man born under a more Fortunate Planet. The King stands indebted to you for his Crown, and all what he can do for you, is below what you have done for him. I am nevertheless to be pity'd at this time, reply'd the Earl, and I can't but ad∣mire the Capriciousness of Fortune; it seems to me as if Caprice and Chance play against one another for us Mortals, and that they decide our Fate at their own Pleasure. They were thus talk∣ing together to divert their Spleen, when they heard not far from thence, some Body cry out

Murder, Watch, Help! The Watch Gang, being not far off, run immediately that way, and in a moment after, brought hither a Man who ap∣pear'd to be very refractory.

The Earl and his Gentleman, not being over curious to see him, turn'd away their Faces, be∣cause they were unwilling to be seen themselves; but the Head of the Watch, who brought him along, told him, laughing, You will have no rea∣son to be dissatisfy'd with your Company, General Talbot, for here is the Earl of Warwick and ano∣ther Lord, who will be glad of your Conversa∣tion; so you may discourse together of the Court, till Day break, when I shall have the Honour of seeing you again. At these Words he lock'd his Leggs into the Stocks, and took his Leave of the Three Prisoners.

Whoever thou art, said the Earl of Warwick to him, that hast occasion to try the same Fate with mine, pray tell me, how did'st thou fancy to get out of the Hands of these Myrmidons? By telling them you were the General Talbot? And thou, who art so curious and importunate, returns he, what makes thee ask so unseasonable a Question, since thou had'st Confidence enough thy self to assume the Name of the Earl of Warwick? The Earl was so well pleas'd with this Answer, that he could not refrain from laughing, and his Laughter having something in it that was pe∣culiar and easie to be distinguish'd. I now am sensible, continued the Person that spoke before, why thou did'st make Use of his Name, because thou laughest very like him. Thou art in the right on't, said my Lord Warwick, I have bin often flattered, that I was like him, and at a Pinch one lays hold of every thing: But, continu'd he, tho' thou did'st act by the same Motives as I did, pray tell me, What made thee imagine thou could'st get

off by taking upon thee the Name of General Talbot, because there was not the least Probability in this Pretence▪ I made use of the first Name that came into my Head, reply'd the other. I am sorry, said the Earl, you did not pitch upon that of the Earl of Warwick, as well as my self, that we might have seen who had the best Title to it. The other Prisoner made no further Answer, and the Earl only said with a low Voice to his Gentl∣eman, That when the Watch came by the next time, they would try once more whether they could get out of this troublesome Place.

Whilst they were Discoursing together, their Brother-in-affection, who having bin over-heated, and now had had time enough to cool himself, began to Cough most violently. The Earl heard him not without some Surprize: If I have the Laughter of the Earl of Warwick, said he, I am sure thou hast General Talbot's Cough. Doest thou know him well enough, to be a Judge of that, reply'd the Man with the Cough▪ No Man that has bin a Soldier can be mistaken in that point, said the Earl. They were thus talking to∣gether, when the Watch passing by, they call'd to them, to desire to be conducted to their respective Places of abode. You are a Company of Rogues, said their Leader, you are likely to stay here till Day-light; but fearing lest something should be defective in the Lock of the Boards wherein their Leggs were enclosed, he view'd it narrowly with his Lanthorn. At this instant the Prisoners cast∣ing their Eyes about, knew one another, to their utmost surprize on both sides.

The Watch being gone, they both gave a great Cry at the same time, and taking each other by the Hand, How! Is it you? How! Is it you, said they: What happened to me, added the General, is past all belief; were we alone, I would ease my

self in telling you my Adventure. You may rest assured, said the Earl, that the third Person here, is both Deaf and Dumb, when ever I think fit; and that is enough to secure you against any thing from him. I am so impatient to relate it to you, reply'd the General, that upon your Word I am a going to tell you the whole Story.

'You are not unacquainted with that Passion I have bin entangled in for some time pass'd, I, I say, who had kept my self free from it, all my Life time before: I was not sensible of the Effects it would produce in my Heart, and con∣sequently so little feared the Consequences there∣of, that I cherish'd it as my greatest Happiness. 'Tis true, the Obstacles I met with to see the Countess of Devonshire, appear'd to me so full of Difficulty and Trouble, that I was resolv'd to cure and despise my Frailty: But this unfortu∣nate Painter, having in some measure dived into my true Sentiments, and found by Experience, that a Person of my Temper, was the fittest Object of encreasing his Fortune, came to me, to facilitate, as he said, every thing for an Inter∣view betwixt the Countess and my self. I ac∣cepted his Offer, and it was agreed he should come in a Coach to my Back-gate: I went in∣to it, without any Attendance, being asham'd my Domesticks should have the least Suspicion of my Extravagancy. He Conducted me into a Beautiful Garden, and thence into a Grotto, where I saw the Countess of Devonshire; so full of Tenderness, Frankness and Modesty, that being seized with the most profound Respect for her Person, I thought my self only too Happy: She would afford me no other Favours than the Satisfaction of Seeing, and Sighing for her, and I insisted upon no more; for I despise all Women that suffer themselves to be

withdrawn from their Duty: And not with∣standing that heighth of Passion I had con∣ceived for her, I should have shewn nothing but Aversion to her; It having at all times bin my Opinion, that Vertue and Modesty are the Essential Parts of a Good Woman. She que∣stionless had bin acquainted with my Temper, and therefore always kept herself within such strict Bounds, that she would never allow me the Liberty of touching as much as her Hand, unless when I put some Rings with Precious Stones upon her Fingers: When I spoke to my Limner, concerning her Reservedness, he told me, in his Country the Ladies were much more Cruel, and to speak of an Italian Woman, and of a Tyger, was the same thing. I was not good Natur'd enough, to be like him, but gave him the hearing: But, to be short, my Lord, you know I told you this Morning, that I was to take my leave of her to Night, ac∣cordingly I went to the Grotto, attended by by my old Guide, where I found the Countess; but in a Moment after, saw come in an antient Man, follow'd by Four lusty Young Men well Arm'd; The Father, without taking any No∣tice of me, turning to his Daughter, Unfor∣tunate Woman, said he, What could engage thee to Dishonour our Family by thy ill Con∣duct? Art not thou Treated both by thy Mother and my self, with all the Tenderness thou couldst expect under thy Circumstances? Thy Life shall Pay for the Shame thou hast made us undergo, with this, drawing his Dagger, gave her a Stab, before I could put it by, though I had my Sword drawn; but I Wounded one of the young Fellows who Assaulted me. I saw my self immediately Surrounded by the Father and the other three, so that I found my self engag'd at great odds,

and for whom, I give you leave to Guess, to wit, for an inconsiderable Jilt, who so nearly resembled the Countess of Devonshire, that, to find out the real difference betwixt them, one must be undeceived in the same manner as I was. I thought it therefore my best way to think of Retreating, and I can't tell, whether they knew me or not; But certain it is, they were not very pressing upon me, to hinder my Re∣treat. Thus, I had come off well enough, had it not bin for two Old Women, who, being brought thither by the Noise, pursued me so closely with their out-cries, that the Watch heard it. I happened to meet them at the Corner of a Street, which I cross'd with much haste, tho' I knew not where I was: For, my Roguish Italian, who stood Centry for me, was run a∣way, and in all probability, will never appear no more in London, after the Game he has play'd me. But be that as it will; I soon saw my self beset on all sides by the Watch, and having not much time to consider how to answer those questions they commonly put to those they meet in the Night time, I thought it the shortest way, to be plain with them, I am such a one; What a cry did they not set up at my Name! I know the time, when to ingratiate themselves with General Talbot, they wou'd al∣most press me to Death; and you may now see, that in the Place where I am, they have al∣most done so in good earnest.'

The Earl would have bin much more Surpriz'd than now he was at this Recital, had he not known beforehand, that this Woman being a Supposititious Countess of Devonshire, the unra∣velling of this Intrigue was not likely to hap∣pen without Noise: So that being actually pre∣pared against any Surprize, he pretended ne∣vertheless

he was, and acted his Part to the greatest nicety. If you will follow my Advice, said he, I would have you endeavour to cure your self of a Passion, which has served hitherto only to tor∣ment you, and to impair that Great Cha∣racter unto which you were born. 'Tis certain, said the General, I was not made for these sorts of Amusements; I am so much asham'd of it, that should any Body else but your self, my Lord, be acquainted with my Frailties, I should not be able to endure it. You may therefore believe, that I shall not seek to nourish those Flames I so much despise. As good fortune will have it, the true Countess is a going into the Country; I am sure I will not go to meet her by the Way: And it shall not be my fault, if ever I see her again. But, continued he, What Chance drew you into this Ambush? I need not tell you, reply'd the Earl, you may be sure it was an Assignation. Well, at least, added the General, I hope you saw the Party you look'd for? No, said he, and am, be∣sides that, much Wounded in the Arm. So we have both sufficient cause of Dissatisfaction, reply'd the General: But I wish I was so far a Conjurer as to guess at the Subject, and to tell in what Place we now are? As to what relates to my self, re∣ply'd the Earl, there needs no Conjurer, who deals with Hell or the Devil; 'Tis known to every Body long ago, that I am much addicted to Adventures. Don't you remember, what happened to the King and my self, whilst he was yet Earl of Marche? One sweet Night above all the rest being taken up by the Watch, we were forc'd to tell our Names, but they had too much ill Nature to believe us; so they would needs carry us to the very Lodgings of the Dutchess of York, who, tho' she was asleep, these Beasts would needs speak with her: Here,

Madam, said they, take your Son, and keep him at home; for if we meet him again, we shall not bring him hither. I remember the thing, said the General, and know this is not your Noviate, tho' I confess it is altogether a Novelty to me; and should be sorry to the Heart, if a Burlesque Account should be given of a thing which is suffi∣ciently ridiculous in it self, and in which I have bin engaged in good earnest. Let this matter happen as it will, said the Earl, it will do you no harm.

Whilst they were thus talking the time away, Day-Light began to disperce the Darkness of the Night, and this increasing their impatience of seeing themselves reliev'd from so ill a Post, they were ready to break their Leggs in trying how to get them out. The Watch happen'd to come just in the nick of time, under the same Leader, but attended by another set of Watchmen, being up∣on the point of parting: Among these there hap∣pen'd to be two, who knowing both the General and the Earl very well, were ready to drop down for fear, having scarce strength enough left, to let the Head of the Watch know the fault he had committed: The fellow turn'd Pale, like one that had receiv'd Sentence of Death, and threw himself at their Feet. The two Earls, seeing him almost desperate, told him, He should be satisfy'd, and take care to open the Lock of the Boards that kept in their Legs, and that without any loss of time. The poor Fellow was so much frightned, that he neither understood them, nor remember'd what he had done with the Key; at last it was found, and that in the very nick of time, since otherwise they had bin catch'd in that Place by the Earl of Devonshire.

This Lord more disturb'd by his Jealousy, than eas'd by sleep, had not bin in Bed all that Night,

under pretence of giving the necessary Orders for their Journey: Thus he pass'd the greatest part of the Night in a very Ill Humour, and rais'd his Mother-in-law and Wife so early out of their Beds, that they pass'd through the same Street, where the General and the Earl had had their Quarters, within a few Minutes after they were dismiss'd. The Head of the Watch was still sitting upon the same Bench, tearing his Hair like a Mad∣man. The Countess of Anglesey compassionating his Condition, stopp'd the Coach, and call'd to him; but he refusing to come near them, she de∣sir'd the Earl of Devonshire, who was on Horse∣back along with them, to speak to him, since she thought she knew him, for he kept the Watch not far from their House. Having a little recover'd himself, he related to the Earl of Devonshire what Misfortune had befall'n him; saying, He look••d up∣on himself as lost for ever, and that he was re∣solv'd to go out of England. The Earl could not give Credit to so strange an Adventure; and what render'd it quite incredible to him, was, that General Talbot was mention'd in it, whom he be∣liev'd to be much wiser than to ramble in the Streets in the Night with the Earl of Warwick; so that he look'd upon the Fellow as Frenzical. He told his Opinion to the Countess of Anglesey, who thought the same; but the young Countess of Devonshire, knew too well how the matter lay: Her Grief encreas'd to a high degree, when she understood what had happen'd to the Earl, and especially his being Wounded in the Arm: She endeavour'd, but in vain, to conceal it; but you might have read in her Eyes, the Secret Thoughts of her Heart. Her Mother ask'd her, what was the matter? She told her she was very ill; and she being suppos'd to be then with Child, there was no further enquiry made at that time.

The Earl of Warwick had much ado to get home; his Leggs were much crampt, and his Arm full of Pain, but his worst Distemper lay in the Head and Mind. He much fear'd that some of the Watchmen would talk of this Accident, and that thus the whole Mistery might be unfolded, which it was his utmost interest to keep conceal'd. The General Talbot had a thousand Chimera's to struggle withal; and be∣ing resolv'd not to make any one the Confident of his Troubles, he kept the whole closed up within his own Breast: However, he saw himself freed from the Fetters of the Countess, and this Passion had bin sufficiently tormenting to him not to relish the sweet of this new Tranquility. In the mean while, the Earl of Warwick took the departure of the Countess of Devonshire so far to Heart, that he was forc'd to keep his Bed: But what prov'd a great Addition to his Grief, was, that putting his Hand into his Pocket, to feel for a Jewel he had, he found it not; he guess'd he must either have lost it, or else it was stoln out of his Pocket; but however it happen'd, he was al∣most desperate about it; he order'd Berincour to leave no Stone unturn'd to find it out, and in the mean while continu'd to be almost beyond him∣self.

The King was no sooner risen, but he ask'd for the Earl of Warwick, so they went to fetch him; but being told he had a Feaver, the King, who lov'd him extreamly, was not long before he gave him a Visit in his Lodgings. He had already bin inform'd of the departure of the Countess of Devonshire by Albine, whereat being most sensibly afflicted, he wanted to talk with the Earl about it. At last, said he, they have carry'd away the Countess: I am surpriz'd at my self, I should re∣lent her Loss, after the Usage I have receiv'd from

her! and therefore am apt to believe, 'tis not her Person, so much as the satisfaction of revenging my self, which I regret at present. Forget her, Sir, said the Earl in a Languishing Tone, she is unworthy of your Tenderness, and I am sensible she will be sufficiently punish'd in the Country, for her Inconstancy in London. That does not satisfy me, added the King, I will know, what it was that made her use me at that rate. You had better stay for her return, reply'd the Earl, your Majesty knows then what to do best. This delay not suiting the King's impatient Temper, and Anger, he was sometimes for making her to come back again; in a Moment after, for going to see her; and after all, he was for sending his Favourite thither; but soon changing his Mind again, he was struggling with these different Thoughts for several Days. Madam Grey was not insensible of this Distraction of his Mind, and she was suffici∣ently inclin'd to make her Complaints to him, but was afraid of checking the King's Passion, and that being us'd to see her in Tears so often, he might not regard them for the future; she was of Opinion, that nothing could be of more dange∣rous Consequence to a Mistress; and that an un∣faithful Lover, who takes care to conceal his In∣fidelity, is more likely to return to his former Passion, than one who quite breaks off upon that Score: Besides, that the Earl, who had all along animated her Anger, was not now so pressing up∣on that Point: For he fear'd no more the King's Progress in this Passion, since the departure of my Lady Devonshire; and now employ'd all his care in settling his own.

What Disturbances did he not meet with in his Heart, when he consider'd she was not to come back in a considerable time! and that there was not the least Opportunity of seeing her, but

what must prove very dangerous as well to her as to himself! and that they must fear every thing from the Countess of Anglesey, whose strict Vertue could not permit her to dispence with the most insignificant Frailty in so Dear and Beau∣tiful a Daughter. He would often shut himself up in his Closet, to abandon himself intirely to the••e melancholy Refections; his Grief encreas'd every Day, Albine writ to him no more; he was for trying every thing to see the Countess, or at least to send to her his Gentleman, whom he knew to want neither Courage nor Conduct; but his fear of meeting with some Sinister Accident stop'd his Designs, and betwixt these various Irresoluti∣ons, his Evil rather increas'd than decreas'd.

After the Earl of Devonshire had left the Head-Watchman before mention••d, he travell'd imme∣diately forward to a Wood, through which they must pass to Twittenham; here alighting from his Horse, he gave it to a little Page that attended him, whilst he walk'd along the great Road with a slow Pace ruminating upon the Thief that had bin seen upon the Wall, the broken Key in the Little Garden-gate, and at last upon the Fancy of the Head-Watchman, who believ'd he had taken up the Earls of Warwick and S••••op. If he had mention'd only the first, said he, I would not in the least question it; but the last of these two has more Wit than to be catch'd in so odd an Adventure. As he was frequently looking about to see whether his Mother-in-law's Coach follow'd him, he observ'd something that cast a more than ordinary Lustre in his Page's Hands: Drawing nearer to him he saw it was a large Jewel of Gold, set all over with precious Stones, a Piece he had often seen in the Earl of Warwick's Hands: He enquir'd, not without some disturbance, from the Page, where he had it? He told him frankly

That he being one of the first who got into the Street, after the Thief had bin seen upon the Wall, the Lustre of this Piece, made of Gold, and cover'd with Diamonds, had made him look that way, and perceiving what it was, he thought he might take and keep it. The Earl took it, and looking upon it for a considerable time, it at last seem'd to him of that thickness as to contain a double Bottom; he try'd to open it, with a sort of uneasiness, whereof he already began to suspect the cause, and being gone at some distance from the Page, at last open'd and found enclos'd within it, the Picture of his Lady, with these Words Engraven round about it, She is much better in my Heart.

At this fatal Sight he turn'd Pale, he shiver'd, his Soul was expos'd a Prey to the most cruel Reflections that could be: He lov'd my Lady Devonshire, he was sometimes inclin'd to justify her, but could not accomplish it: For, said he, the Master of this Jewel must doubtless be the same Person, who having got a Key to the Little-Gate of the Garden, was endeavouring to open it; but finding it broken in the Lock, scaladed the Wall, and afterwards run away; and the Jewel more than sufficiently shews it must be the Earl of Warwick. What could he think after so many convincing Proofs, especially since the Picture of his Lady fell into his Hands by so extraordinary an Accident? He was a going to abandon himself quite to Despair, when hearing the Noise of my Lady Anglesey's Coach, he Re-mount∣ed his Horse, and spoke only a few Words as they pass'd by him, being resolv'd to hide his Grief, till he had Discours'd her about the Matter. The little Page vex'd to the Heart, that his Master had kept the Jewel, could not forbear to speak of it to Albine, whose Kinsman he was, and he extoll'd to such a

degree the Value thereof, that the old Covetous Governess was heartily vex'd thereat, since she would fain have bin Mistress of it her self, let the Consequences have prov'd never so dange∣rous. So soon as she had an Opportunity of speaking to her Mistress, she told her of this unfortunate Accident; and never were so many prevailing Circumstances join'd together, to dis∣cover any Man, as there were here against the Earl of Warwick. Am I not to be pity'd, said she to Albine, that my Compliance with thy Advice should cost me all the Tranquillity of my Life? What was it that mov'd me to consent, that the Earl should take his Leave of me? Heavens are my Witness, that notwithstanding my Inclinations for him, I would not save his Life by one Criminal Sigh; and ever since that fa∣tal Moment when I saw him first, I have left nothing unattempted to put him out of my Mind; but finding my self not in a Condition to encompass that, I have always stood upon my Guard, to observe my self, being sensible that my Heart was only too much inclin'd to him. Albine! What hast thou done, when thou did'st persuade me to entertain him? This so Charming, and at the same time, so Dangerous Sight, made such an Impression upon my Soul, as encreas'd all my Pains I suffer'd before upon his Account. Was not I unfortunate enough, unless you had taken so much pains to speak to me concerning him? Why did'st thou find out an Opportunity to bring him into the House? His Jewel being now in my Husband's Hands, is there any room for him to doubt, but that what the Head-Watch∣man told him is actually true? He will for the future look upon me only with Scorn, and the secret Reproaches I shall load my self withal, will serve only to make him discover the Confusion I

am in. You must not, Madam, said Albine to her, torment your self at that rate, it will be no hard Task for you to persuade your whole Family, that if the Earl had attempted to come into the Garden, it must be by the King's Com∣mand, and without the least Knowledge of yours; and that the Ingenious Confession you have made concerning his Majesty's Sentiments, ought to be a convincing Proof, that you had not the least share in all that had happen'd. No, cry'd the Countess, I can't maintain a Lye with the same Confidence as I did the Truth; my Mother will read in my Eyes all what is within me: Alas! could she as well discover there my Innocence and Misfortunes, What is it I need then to fear? Whilst the young Countess was thus afflicting her self, the Earl of Devonshire, full of Impatience to impart the Secret to my Lord and my Lady Anglesey, took them into a remote Walk, and having discover'd to them what real cause of Suspicion he had of his Wife, he shew'd them her Picture within the Jewel of the Earl of Warwick: The Sight thereof overwhelm'd them with Grief; they found it very difficult to speak in her Justi∣fication; but after all, my Lady Anglesey could not resolve to condemn her, without being hear'd; so she desir'd her Son-in-law, not to take the least notice of it to her, till she had Dis∣cours'd the Point with her, which was to be done the next following Day.

My Lady Devonshire soon perceiv'd, that when my Lady Anglesey lock'd her self up with her in a Room, this was the time she was to undergo the Tryal of a most severe Inquisition: She trembled, and the Paleness of her Face was an undeniable Token of her disturb'd Thoughts. After having patiently endur'd a thousand Reproaches, without in the least interrupting the Countess: When she

saw her Picture within the Jewel, she could no longer hear, with patience, her Mother upbraiding her with having presented it to the Earl; she fell out into such a Passion, and spoke upon that Head with so much vehemency (tho' without losing the respect due to her Mother) that she began to be fully convinc'd of her Innocence. My Lady Anglesey now fully satisfy'd of the Truth of what her Daughter had told her, promis'd to omit nothing that might conduce to make the Earl of Devonshire to have a favourable Opinion of her. The Countess begg'd with Tears in her Eyes to do her what service she could with her Lord; she was several times in a Mind to desire the favour of her to dismiss Albine; but fearing lest this malicious old Creature might still more ex∣asperate the Earl of Devonshire against her, by putting into his Head certain Malicious Con∣structions concerning her Easiness, in consenting to an Interview with him, during her Father's and Husband's Journey to York, and consequently make the Breach wider; this prov'd the only Motive, that made her keep near her a Monster, which could not be kept at too great a distance.

My Lady Angelsey not only urg'd the matter home, and with extraodinary strength of Reason, to her Son-in law, but also engag'd her Word for his Wives Innocence; all the Fault being laid upon the King. And it was true in effect, that my Lady Devonshire knew nothing of the Mistery of this Jewel-case, and that no Body could have shew'd more Dissatisfaction, than she did at the Earl of Warwick, upon that Point: For, she would often say to Albine, What must the Limner think who drew this Picture? he will certainly believe this Favour was obtain'd with my Consent. O! Unfortunate I, cry'd she, what was I a doing when I had so much Complaisance as to hearken to the

Earl! How dearly am I likely to pay for it! I shall, lose my Husband's Esteem; he will from hence forward be always inclin'd to Jealousy, which all my Precaution and good Conduct will not be able to remove. Oh, What signifies it to you, Madam, if he is jealous, said Albine, provided you have nothing wherewith to reproach your self? If you have committed an Error in something or other, you may give a free course to your Tears: But, supposing the Earl of War∣wick had your Picture, there is nothing blameable in your regard, in the Case: Are not the Pictures of Soveraigns seen every where? And don't they even make Presents of them without being blam'd for it? These general Instances have no relation to my particular Case, reply'd she; a Queen may do abundance of things, which are innocent in her, would be interpreted as Criminal in me; I am neither so Blind, nor so Fool-hardy as to re∣gulate my self by such like Examples. Then you have now conceiv'd a Hatred against the Earl, said Albine? Were I come to that Point of Hating him, reply'd she, I should not be disturb'd to that degree as I am; but there is still a certain Re∣membrance, and that so dear to me, that it follows me every where. I feel still within me a Frailty not to hate him; and am in vain upon my Guard against my own Heart, nothing but Time and Absence can cure me.

My Lady Devonshire understood by the Countess of Anglesey, all what had pass'd betwixt her and her Son-in-law. Your Conduct for the future, said she to her, must make good every thing I have engag'd for; For, my Dear Child, I had rather see you dead, than to find you bewitch'd to the best Man in the World. As I am of the same Opinion with you, reply'd she, the greatest favour you can do me, is to let me live in the Country; I will

avoid the King, I will fly the World, and I will avoid every thing, that may robb me of this Happy Tranquillity, and may make me to dis∣please you. My Lady Anglesey embracing her with a great deal of Tenderness, told her, she highly approv'd her Resolution; That it would be neces∣sary to keep at a distance from Court, for some time, and that the King would certainly forget her: But, added she, has the Earl of War∣wick no share in the Intrigue? Is it possible he should so far expose himself, as to get on the top of the Garden-wall, to suffer himself to be seiz'd by the Watch, and run the Hazard of so many ill Consequences that attended it, barely to be ser∣viceable to his Master? He who a long time ago was always us'd to follow his own Inclinations, and not to obey the King's Commands any fur∣ther than he found them suitable to his own satis∣faction: Add to this, your Picture in his Jewel-case; if it was the King's, what made him keep it? 'Tis possible, Madam, reply'd the Countess, not without some Confusion (seeing her Mother's Head so full of Jea∣lousy) 'tis possible the King might stand in fear of his Mistresses Curiosity, to avoid which he gave it to his Favourite. The old Countess seem'd well enough satisfy'd with this Reason, and going out of her Chamber, left the Daughter in her Closet entangled in a thousand Vexations.

Ought it not have bin sufficient for me, said she to her Confident, to obey with submission, without going about to give Counsel against my own Tranquillity? I desire to live in the Country all the remainder of my Life, to be watch'd, and to be debarr'd from all manner of Liberty: If they do accordingly, How can I complain? And if it be done, Why should I live? That cruel Dart that has Wounded me, still sticks in the very inner∣most part of my Heart, and I shall see no more

him, whom I am not able to forget: Albine, how unfortunate am I! She cry'd for a considerable time, and her Governess, who long'd for nothing more than to be always managing an Intrigue whereby she might make her Advantage, did not fail to make Use of this Critical Juncture, to pro∣pose to her, to give an Account in a Letter, to the Earl, in what a Condition she was in. The Countess not only rejected her Proposition; but also forbid her ever to re-call to her Mind an Idea, she intended to efface out of her Remem∣brance.

The Departure of the Countess of Devonshire had at first rais'd the King's Anger; but hearing her scarce ever spoken of, and believing himself not well us'd, he made all his Addresses to Madam Grey, who became so intoxicated and haughty at this unexpected return of the King's Passion, that, without the least Regard to her best Friends, she sacrific'd every thing to her own Humour and In∣terest; as among the rest it happen'd to the Earl of Warwick.

The Head of the Watch-men, who had made the Earl to pass his time so scurvily in the late Nocturnal Adventure, dreaded the Consequence thereof might turn to his utter Ruin, unless he could counter-ballance the Earl's Authority, by some powerful Protection at Court: His Sister, happening to live with Madam Grey, he told her the whole Story, and what Apprehensions he was under; And this young Woman fearing no less than the Ruin of her Brother, by the great Power of the General and the Earl, threw her self at her Mistresses Feet, conjuring her to take Compassion of her Family, and to interceed with the King, in behalf of what had happen'd to her Brother out of Ignorance. Madam Grey was too well pleas'd with this Story, not to impart it to

the young King, and to represent the whole, un∣der such Circumstances of her own Invention, as prov'd very diverting to him. After having laugh'd very heartily for some time, he was very curious to know from whence the Gene∣ral and the Earl came at that time of Night; and as he knew the first to be a Person of down∣right Honesty, he judg'd, he might with much less Difficulty unfold the Mistery by him, than by the Earl of Warwick, who would be sure not to discover his Intrigue to him.

So soon as the King saw the General, he took him into his Closet, and told him with a very o∣bliging Air, That he was somewhat dissatisfy'd with him, because he should keep him in Igno∣rance, of what was known to all the World be∣sides, viz. his Quarrel with the Watch: If you have a mind to make your Peace with me, con∣tinued he, you must deal frankly, and let me know, at least, from whence you came at that time. Sir, reply'd the General, your Majesty would have put me to the greatest Nonplus that can be, had you ask'd me such a Question as this sometime ago; but at this time, now I have broken those Chains that prov'd too weighty for me, and am freed from a Tyrannical Passion, so little suitable to my Natural Inclinations, I am free to own, that the most surprizing Beauty of the young Countess of Devonshire, did rob me of the true Use of all my Reason. He then, like a blunt true-bred Soldier, laid open before the King his whole Passion for that Lady, his Inquietudes, and how he had bin manag'd by the Limner; but dis∣sembled his Knowledge of the King's being his Rival, judging, that in point of Policy, he ought not to touch upon that String. The King inter∣rupting him, told him with a Smile, Oh! my Lord, you forget to remember me in this Love

Concern! The General was somewhat surpriz'd, but soon recollecting himself, Your Majesty, says he, knows so well how to conceal the Secrets of your Heart, that I could never be acquainted with what share your Majesty had in this Intrigue. We will ask Rosamond's Picture, continu'd the King, Smiling, perhaps she will be more sincere than we are. The General being not a little net∣led, Blush'd; Sir, said he, the sincere Confession I have made, without concealing the least thing from you, I hop'd, would not have bin recom∣penc'd with such Reproaches from your Majesty; I am much asham'd of it, and you will actually save me a great deal of Trouble, if you will be pleas'd to believe, That that time whilst I was sighing for my Lady Devonshire, is to me now like a Dream, the Idea whereof vanishes as soon as you are well awake; as I don't remember, what is pass'd, so I might easily forget to mention some Circumstances, without the least design: That this must be attributed rather to the Defect of my Memory, than to any want of Inclination, to give entire Satisfaction to your Majesty, concern∣ing what you are desirous to know. Well, let that be as it will, reply'd the King, tell me whether the Earl of Warwick was along with you at this charming Assignation? No, Sir, said the General, we were both equally surpriz'd to meet one ano∣ther at this pretty Seat; nay, we talk'd together for some Moments without knowing one ano∣ther, and I could, with all the eagerness I shew'd, not get out of him a Reciprocal Confi∣dence, to tell me from whence he came.

The King, who listen'd to him with much At∣tention, began to conceive some Jealousy at the Earl of Warwick, but would not give way to it, for fear of giving to himself some real occasion of Trouble: His Tenderness for the Earl did

suppress his Jealousy, and he would even have bin dissatisfy'd with being inform'd of the real Truth thereof; so that his mind fluctuating, be∣twixt uncertain Hope and Fear, he did not in the least alter his obliging manner of Corre∣spondence with this Favorite. But the Earl, whose Passion encreas'd in Proportion to the Multitude of Obstacles that obstructed his Hap∣piness, could think of nothing else than how to encompass another Interview with the Countess of Devonshire; and as he took but little notice of those that came to make their Court to him, so the King found him much different in his Temper, from that Pleasant, Charming and Engaging Humour, which render'd, him so a∣greeable to all the World: He observ'd, not without Vexation, that not only his Deport∣ment, but also his Person, was much chang'd; That his Spirits seem'd suppress'd; That his Health was but in an indifferent State; and in short, That his Pensiveness and Distractions carry'd him beyond himself sometimes, past all recovery. He was heartily disturb'd thereat, and it came more than once into his Thoughts, that perhaps the Earl might have bin wanting in the Respect and Fidelity due to him, in respect of my Lady Devonshire, and that he secretly lov'd her: But, as I told you before, he would check these Considerations, and continue to give him such Demonstrations of his Tenderness, as would have made him esteem himself infinitely Happy, had his Heart not bin engag'd so far as it was.

One Day, when the King had bin Talking to him a long while, concerning a Matter that ac∣quir'd a great deal of Attention, being the Sub∣ject upon which he was to make a Speech to the Parliament; the better to help his Memory, he

thought fit to dictate it to the Earl, for him to write it; but happening to stop at certain Inter∣vals, the better to think upon what he was to dictate upon that Head, the Earl, who was so far from thinking upon what the King said, that he minded nothing else but his own Affairs, meaning the Countess, was on a sudden seiz'd with some Splenetick Thoughts, which nearly affecting his Soul, he, without considering that the Paper he had in his Hand must be perus'd by the King himself, writ these following Words: Hymen has reduc'd you under the Laws of a Husband, your Heart is his, and 'tis not in your Power to lo••e a Lover. He had questionless gone on, had not the King begun afresh; so that the Earl making a new Article, writ what was dictated to 〈◊〉〈◊〉; and stopping again for a while, to ruminate up∣on the Matter, and to render his Speech the more persuasive and insinuating, the Earl, who was quite taken up with the Countess, writ again these Lines: Love not a Husband whose dreadful Power, does snatch from thee thy Heart in spite of thy self, and who without consulting thy Heart, offers Violence to thy Inclinations.

The King concluded the Speech which the Earl writ, without considering it was upon the same Paper, where he had set down these Verses, and it being late, his Majesty folding it up without reading it, and putting it up in his Pocket, went to pay a Visit to the Dutchess of York, his Mother. The Earl of Warwick went home at the same time, from whence he sent immediately a Messenger to the Dutchess of Norsolk, Sister to the Countess of Devonshire: He knew that this Lady was then enquiring for a Compleat Gardener, for the Countess of Anglesey, who now wholly applying her self to the Diversions of the Country, had a mind to have their Gardens quite alter'd. The

Earl of Warwick having then a House, or rather to speak more properly, a Palace, at Chelsey, near London, adorn'd with all the Beauties of Art and Nature, especially by its most Delightful Situation upon the very Bank of the Thames, he spar'd no Cost nor Care to make it one of the most Charming Places in the World. It was for this Purpose, he had obtain'd out of France, the Designs and Scheme of that celebrated Gardener, who had the Management of those Famous Gar∣dens of Agnes Lorez, Mistress to King Charles VII. of France, appertaining to a fine Country Seat, near Vincennes; Two Gardeners being like∣wise sent him out of France, to be employ'd in the Designing of his Gardens, he sent one of them to the Dutchess of Norsolk, to shew her the Draughts they had brought along with them. The Gardener being a sensible Fellow, so well dis∣charg'd himself of his Commission, according to the Earl's Instructions, that my Lord Norfolk soon agreed with him, to be sent to my Lady Anglesey, and the Gardener desiring to have a Fellow allow'd him, to assist him, she willingly consented to his Request. This Employment be∣ing design'd for Berincour, a Native of France, his Language perfectly suited with his Master's Intention, but it was not the same with his Habit; for being very well known at Court, where he us'd frequently to attend the Earl, and of a Gentile Make, it was not an easie mat∣ter to manage his Disguise, so as to be past all hazard of being discover'd: However, this Point being encompass'd almost to a Wonder, away he goes along with the Gardener, to execute his Master's Commission, and to deliver a Letter to the Countess of Devonshire, full of those most Respectful and Passionate Expressions, that were due to a Lady of her Merit and Birth, and

suitable to represent his Passion in the most lively Terms that could be invented.

The King staid not long with the Dutchess his Mother, but soon having engag'd her at Play, wherein he went Halves with her, soon left the Apartment, and straightways went to that of Madam Grey, who gave him a slender Check for staying so long. Don't be out of Humour, said he to her, I have bin busie in very serious Mat∣ters, and I staid but a very little while with the Dutchess of York, because I would be here so soon as possible I could. I will read to you, the Speech I intend to make at the opening of the next Parliament, because I have had no time to peruse and revise it as yet. I hope, Sir, said she, Caressing him, you will read it aloud, which the King did; but coming to that Passage where the Earl had witten his Verses, he was surpriz'd beyond Expression! What do you think of this, said he to his Mistress? Is it by chance, or done on purpose? Who is it he speaks of and who is it he is so much in love with? Madam Grey read them with the utmost Atten∣tion, and without consulting a Conjurer soon guess'd at the true meaning thereof. Oh! Tray∣tor, cry'd she, he intended to make me his Bubble! The King was touch'd to the quick with these Words, for knowing Madam Grey to be one of the most ••…••…able Persons in the World, he su∣spected an Intrigue, betwixt her and the Earl; so that at last his Passion for the Countess of De∣vonshire was reviv'd. Quite overwhelm'd with these Thoughts, he with a fierce Countenance look'd upon the Fair Widow, without sparing all the Reproaches his Rage could inspire him with, or affording her any time for her Justifica∣tion; and so arising on a sudden from his Seat, was a going to leave her, she then throwing

her self at his Feet, and Embracing him with Tears in her Eyes, I am resolv'd, said she, not to live, unless your Majesty will hear me. Sir, I am not Guilty: The Words which I let drop, with∣out considering the matter, concerning the Earl of Warwick, have not the least relation to me, but only to his Treachery to you. At these Words the King's Anger seem'd to be somewhat appeas'd, the Beau∣tiful Eyes of Madam Grey, all overflown with Tears, had touch'd him to the quick, and he now blam'd himself for being the Occasion there∣of; so he sat down again, and Madam Grey lay∣ing hold of this favourable Disposition, with tender Looks intermix'd with Sighs, told him, I was unacquainted, Sir, with your Passion for the Countess of Devonshire, and I might have bin so for a great while longer, had not the Earl of Warwick taken so much Pains to inform me of it, by many of his Letters; I am a going to shew to your Majesty it was he also, that told me, you intended to fetch her from Twittenham, and thus I acted in concert with him, in order to thwart your Design: 'Twas he that plagu'd me to load you with Reproaches, and without him, I should have shew'd much more Tenderness and Respect; but when he told me I was upon the point of losing you, I like a desperate Woman was soon persuaded, that he had so much respect for me, as to be altoge∣ther in my Interest, and that this was the only Mo∣tive, that made him hazard every thing in trusting me with a Secret, the Discovery whereof would in all probability make him forfeit all your Favours: I would have conceal'd it within my Breast, were it not that now I am convinc'd what was it that engag'd him to make me his Confident, wherein Affection had not the least Share; 'Tis so far from it, Sir, that he should have a Passion for me, that he loves the Countess of Devonshire, he is your

Rival, and I his Shield, to be interpos'd be∣twixt you and her, in order to Cure your old Passion by a new one: Don't disdain to call to mind his Conduct, when you laid open your Heart to him; look into these Letters, reflect up∣on these Verses:

Hymen has reduc'd you under the Laws of a Hus∣band, your Heart is his, and 'tis not in your Power to love a Lover.

You see Sir, said she, how every thing agrees to what I tell you: He thinks the Countess loves her Husband; That he fears he shall never obtain her; That this touches him to the Heart, and, That, thereupon he has scarce any regard to what your Majesty dictated to him; but over∣come by his Passion, he writes those very things, he had much better have kept secret, and that upon the same Paper you have now in your Hands; nay, you see him carry'd to such a Pitch of Extrava∣gancy, that he goes on and Writes these Lines:

Love not a Husband whose dreadful Power, does snatch from thee thy Heart in spite of thy self, and who without consulting thy Heart, offers Violence to thy Incli∣nations.

This doubtless is said in relation to the Coun∣tess's sudden Departure, he knowing her to be dissatisfy'd upon that Point, like a Man of Sense, makes Use of this as an Argument to cool her Affection for her Husband. Now your Ma∣jesty sees, continu'd she, how little I deserv'd these Reproaches you loaded me with to so high a Degree, and how small a Share of Affection the Earl bore to me. She might have held on Talking thus till Night, without being minded by

the King, who soon perceiving that his Jealousy was ill-grounded, and this his Jealousy changing to a most furious Anger, continu'd all this while 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a deep study. Madam Grey being too well acquainted with the cause thereof to interrupt him in his Thoughts, kept silence for a while, till the King broke out on a sudden, as if he was speaking to the Earl. O! Perfidious Man! Is this the Return thou makest me for all the Kindness I have shown thee! for the entire Confidence I have put in thee! for the Riches and other Favours I have heap'd upon thee! What a Piece of Treachery is this? He has snatch'd from me a young Mistress! whom I lov'd, and unto whom I was not altogether indifferent. He has left no Stone unturn'd, Madam, to rob me likewise of your Heart: Could any Letters be more cunningly devis'd than these he has written to you? How Miserable is the Condition of Princes! being either hated out of Fear, or else despis'd when they enter into a Familiarity with their Subjects; so that they scarce ever taste the true Relish of thinking themselves really belov'd.

He paus'd at these Words a little, and his Me∣lancholly Reflections encreasing with the Conside∣rations of what Favours he had bestow'd upon the Earl, and how ill he had bin rewarded by him, he Sigh'd, much dissatisfy'd within himself, for retaining still some Kindness for a Person that de∣serv'd it so little. At last turning his Eyes, with a tender Look, upon Madam Grey, he begg'd of her not to remember what he had told her, during the first Motions of his Jealousy; she appear'd satisfy'd thereat, but was not a little discompos'd at the King's Melancholly, which she endeavour'd to disperse by her pleasant and engaging Conver∣sation, which at any other time, but this, would have bin very diverting to him, but now had but little, if not a contrary Effect upon him; for he

took his Leave of her, not without some dissatis∣faction, because she had laid open to him the ill Conduct of his Favourite.

The Earl of Warwick appear'd not at Court that Night, being wholly taken up with making the necessary Dispositions for Berincour's Journey; he open'd no less than three times, the Letter he was to deliver to the Countess of Devonshire, making every time certain Additions, and so many super∣fluous Repetitions, as took away a great part of its first Beauty. He also sent a Letter to Albine, and a Jewel of a good Value, and yet after all, was not contented with what he had either written or done, fearing less some sinister Ac∣cident or other should disconcert all his Precau∣tions, or that the Countess of Devonshire might be exasperated at his Proceeding.

The King pass'd that Night under a thousand Inquietudes, which would not suffer him so much as to think of sleeping; the Beauty, Grace, and Engaging Air of the Countess of Devonshire, com∣ing a fresh into his Mind, tormented his Soul with an irresistable Power: He understood by the Verses of the Earl's, that he had not as yet made any sufficient Progress there to make him Happy; and on the other Hand, reflecting upon his late Conduct, he had all the reason to fear he should not be more Happy himself. Entangled in these different Considerations, his Passion at last gave place to his Anger, on account of the Earl of Warwick: He took a Resolution to Banish him into the most Northern Parts of Scotland, among those dreadful Mountains, where the Inhabitants (at that time) were distinguishable only from Savage Beasts by their Human Shape. Here it is, said he, where he shall entertain the Rocks with his Passion; here he shall send forth his Sighs to the Sea, whilst I will remain Deaf to all his Complaints, till I have

made him to do a long Penance for his Infidelity. But after all, considering the many Obligations he ow'd him, this oblig'd him to alter his Opinion, and to make him acknowledge only, and repent of his Fault. However, whilst he continu'd strug∣gling betwixt Gratitude and Anger, for fear the last should again get the upper hand against a Per∣son whom he was inclin'd to Pardon, if he would in the least render himself worthy of it, he resolv'd, rather than to speak to him himself, to engage some Body else to do it in his behalf.

He pitch'd upon the Earl of Pembroke to under∣take this Task: He was also the King's Favourite, a Man not inferior in Point of Magnificence and Gallantry to any Person at Court; he was Witty, of a Charming Conversation, Young, Handsome, and who spar'd nothing to render himself agree∣able to the Fair Sex, and that with good Suc∣cess. The King having order'd him to be call'd to Court early in the Morning, he was yet in Bed, but made all the haste he could, being impatient to know what the King had to command him. He was no sooner admitted into his Bed Chamber, but he told him. Your best Friend has betray'd me; The Earl of Warwick never merited the Tenderness I shew'd him; I made him a Partaker in my Heart, but my Favours were very ill be∣stow'd. The Earl of Pembroke hearken'd to the King with a great deal of Trouble, because he entirely lov'd the Earl of Warwick; What is it you tell me, Sir, cry'd he? Is it possible he should be wanting in what is owing to so Great a King? Certainly he was not engag'd in restoring King Henry and Queen Margarete to the Throne? Ah! I don't doubt, but that some body or other, envi∣ous of his Good Fortune, has insinuated some∣thing to your Majesty to procure his Ruin. Be∣lieve your own Eyes, reply'd the King, giving him

the Billets he had written to Madam Grey, and his Speech with the before mention'd Verses. The Earl stood surpriz'd to the highest Degree, with his Eyes fix'd to the Ground, without utter∣ing one Word. I am well pleas'd, said the King, to see you so much concern'd, there being but few Favourites so generous, as to share the Misfortunes of those whom they think powerful enough to do them a Mischief; but since you are so much concern'd for him, Go and advise him to merit his Pardon, by an Ingenuous Confession of his In∣trigue with the young Countess of Devonshire; this being the only Means to appease my Anger. I am a going to conduct him hither at your Ma∣jesty's Feet, answer'd the Earl. No, cry'd the King, let him shew never so much Repentance, I will not speak to him, and I could find in my Heart, never to see him again, but rather to send him into some dreadful Solitude, where he might at his own leisure, reflect upon his Fault; but that some Remnants of Tenderness plead within me for his better Treatment: In short, let him be sincere, and he may be sav'd.

The Earl of Pembroke went immediately to the Earl of Warwick, but so much overwhelm'd with Grief, as is scarce to be express'd. To give the Reader the better Idea of the true Occasion thereof, I shall be oblig'd to give an Account of the Whole Adventure from its first Ori∣ginal.

'The Earl of Pembroke after his Return from Rome (where he had spent some Months) into England, receiv'd the Visits of many Persons of Note, and among the rest of my Lord Stanley, Bro∣ther to the Countess of Devonshire: This Lord took notice in the Earl's Apartment, of a certain most curious Picture, representing Psyche in a

most magnificent Palace, said to be Built for her by Cupid, adorn'd with all the Embellishments that could be invented; nothing could appear more lovely than this young Princess her self; in short, she was such, as might inspire Love to love it self. My Lord Stanley was so much taken with the Picture, that not being able to keep his Eyes from it, he shorten'd his Visit, and return'd home with a full Resolution to have the Picture, cost what it would, tho' he could not well devise how to encompass it, they being Rivals, and con∣sequently not over-complaisant for one another. They both made love to a very Charming Actress, named Lelia, who having always shewn more In∣clination for my Lord Stanley than for my Lord Pembrook, occasion'd this Jealousy betwixt them. My Lord Stanley rightly judg'd, that Lelia might easily get the Picture from a Person, who had al∣ways distinguish'd himself by his Generosity, and who would not refuse her such a thing, even tho' he had not bin in Love with her. My Lord was not backward in caressing and telling his Mistress eve∣ry thing he could think of, in case she could get the Picture; so, both mov'd by joint Interest and Inclination, Mrs. Lelia had the Picture from the Earl as soon as she ask'd for it. She scarce gave her self leisure to cast her Eyes upon it, being highly impatient to satisfy my Lord Stanley's Curiosity with all possible Diligence, in which she had succeeded to her Desire, had it not bin for a sinister Accident that interven'd.'

'My Lord Pembrook happening to return my Lord Stanley's Visit, happen'd just to be in the Room, when Mrs. Lelia's Messenger came in with the Picture, being eager to deliver it, in hopes of a good Present; so, that tho' my Lord made him a Sign of going back with it, as soon guessing it was the Picture of the Beautiful Psyche, the Fel∣low

open'd the Coverture, and expos'd it to the Earl of Pembrook's Sight, who appear'd not a little nettled thereat: They both Blush'd toge∣ther, my Lord appear'd surpriz'd, and the Earl smil'd with a malicious Air. I should have bin vex'd, said he, if I should have seen my Picture in another Place; but I think it but reasonable that Lelia should amuse you by such like small Presents, when I have reason to believe that she bestows up∣on me other Favours of much more Value than yours. I am not surpriz'd, at what you tell me, reply'd my Lord, I always thought you more Happy than my self, and even your Absence has not bin able to procure to me the least Advantage with her. The Earl, who knew very well how the Matter stood, soon put an End to the Con∣versation, wherein he could take but small de∣light, and going straightways to Lelia, over-load∣ed her with a thousand Reproaches, according to her Deserts; to all which she answer'd with Indifferency, she having conceiv'd a certain O∣pinion, That if any thing could fix that erring Star or Planet of my Lord Stanley's, it would be this Sacrifice she had offer'd to him.'

'About that time, all the Discourse in London was concerning that Stupendious Structure the Earl of Warwick was a Building at Chelsey: Every one found out some new Embellishments and Beauties in it every Day; and there were very few but what would go to take a View of it, before he had Lodg'd there some of his Beautiful Mistresses, and consequently render'd it inaccessible. He had a great Number of Workmen there, but at the same time seldom came there himself, being obli∣ged constantly to attend the King.'

'The Earl of Pembrook vex'd to the Heart at Lelia, without being able to Cure himself of his Passion for her, resolv'd to make this a retiring

Place, to indulge his Grief. After having walk'd for a considerable time, he seated himself on the Bank of a Rivulet, which flowing through the Green Fields, over a Sandy Bottom, and being curiously planted with many large Trees near the edge, made this Place both very Shady and Re∣freshing in the hot Season; looking upon this Place as very suitable to his present Circumstances, he past some time in a very pensive Condition, till at last he writ certain Verses in his Table-book; he happening then to hear the Voices of divers Per∣sons coming that Way, he got up, and being re∣solv'd not to be seen by them, mov'd from them with so much haste, that none of them could perceive him near hand, tho' they guess'd by his Habit, that he must be a Person of Quality: These prov'd a Company of Ladies, who soon saw themselves not mistaken in their Guess, when the Countess of Devonshire, who walk'd a few Paces before the rest, saw upon the Ground a Table-book the out-side whereof was Plated with and Engraven in Gold, set at the Edges with Dia∣monds of a considerable Value.'

'The Countess of Anglesey committed her Daughter to the Care of the Countess of Oxford, to take her along with her to Chelsey, in Company of the Countess of Bath, Mrs. Howard, and my Lord Stanley, they being all satisfy'd that the Earl of Warwick was gone abroad a Hunting with the King. The Countess of Devonshire shew'd them the fine Table-book, but finding it fastned with a very small Lock, and no Key in it, there was no possibility of opening it, unless they would break it all to Pieces: They were all inclin'd to do it, except my Lord Stanley, who oppos'd it, alledg∣ing, That without doubt, he that own'd and had lost it, would soon come to enquire after it, so the Countess of Devonshire kept it. After

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they had taken several turns, my Lord Stanley told his Sister and Mrs. Howard, with a low Voice, That they would turn into another Walk, and no sooner had they done so, but he ask'd for the Table-book; I have, added he, a small Key, which I believe will open it; I would not discover the thing to the rest of the Ladies, because, if I am not mistaken, I have some Share in the Secret. But I will remain Mistress of it, said his Sister with a Smile, and therefore can do no more for your satisfaction, than to make Use of it; and as I take a singular Delight in unfolding of Misteries, so I should be much pleas'd to meet with a Diverting Secret. When they open'd it, they found the follow∣ing Lines upon the first Leaf:'

The Object of my Love is offensive to me, I was not able to engage her; I will be for Change, 'tis a Pleasure to Revenge ones self by a happy Indiffe∣rence.

'Our Unknown is dissatisfy'd with his Condition, said the Countess of Devonshire laughing; but he takes his own Way, and I suppose he is happy in his Liberty by this time. Ah! Madam, reply'd Mrs. Howard, that is no sure Rule; I have heard People talk upon that Head, who have found themselves, more than once in their Life time, put to such Tryals, they were free to own, that the Wounds of the Heart, are far different from others, and prove very hard to be cur'd. I conjure you Brother, said the Countess of Devonshire, turning to my Lord Stanley, tell us in good earnest your Thoughts upon this Point. I am afraid I shall speak against the Fair Sex, and thus you intend to expose me to the Indignation of the most Aimable Person in the

World, said he, looking upon Mrs. Howard. You can't say nothing amiss, in what you are a going to tell, my Lord, said she, I have already conceiv'd such an Opinion of you, as with all the Art you have, you will not be able to alter. I will tell you then, continu'd he, you are under a great Mistake, if you imagine that People fix their Love now for any considerable time; they tell us indeed, That in former Ages, People were absolutely True and Faithful, That let their Fetters be never so heavy, they worship'd them, whether well or ill treated, it was no matter; they lov'd many Years successively without be∣ing able to make their Reason so far to get the upper hand of their Passion, as to incline to a Change: But at present we take quite contrary Methods to those, and such as prove much more Commodious; commonly the Person that Changes first, is scarce a few Moments before∣hand with the other he has lov'd; we now love our Mistresses as Butterflies do Flowers: If a loving Couple now part without falling quite to Pieces, and exposing themselves to the Publick, they say they have done the finest thing they could do, and that they ought not to be dissatisfy'd with one another.'

'If I had the least Inclination for an Intrigue, said Mrs. Howard, this Discription of yours would cure me of it for all my Life time. There is no General without an Exception, reply'd my Lord, and I my self, Madam, dare undertake to be one of the first who can give you an Instance, that there are even now, those who know how to love at another rate, than what I just now spoke of. I can't tell, whether you can or not, added she; but this I am sure of, I shall make no Tryal thereof. Look here, said the Countess, interrupting her, some more Verses, let us see

whether they are of the same Stamp with the preceeding ones.'

Lelia is Prodigal of her Charms in the Arms of a Triumphant Rival. Ah! Let us take revenge, let us hasten to sacrifice her before his Eyes. But alas! how many Tears will this Fury of mine cost me, by delivering up what I love to my most Cruel Despair? But no matter, let us revenge our selves, since this Inhumane Creature, has not as much as vouchsafed to make one Step to allay my Pain and Despair.

'The Countess being not ignorant, that her Brother was in Love with Lelia, she told him with a kind of a Malicious Smile; you were in the right, to concern your self so far, as you did, in what might be contain'd in this Table-book; you see it complains of your Mistress, But is it you that is the Occasion of it? or is your Condition no better than that of this Unfortunate Lover? You reveal my Secrets without my Consent, reply'd he; And what would Mrs. Howard think of me, if I should say I had reason to be contented? She would interpret it perhaps as a Piece of Vanity. The Person you speak of, my Lord, is not so very valuable for her Conduct, reply'd she, from thence to inferr the least Disadvantagious Consequence, in boasting of your Happiness. Tis true, said he, People have conceiv'd some Prejudice against her Conduct, but notwith∣standing this, what she does for me deserves Acknowledgment; For she prefers me to the Earl of Pembrook, who you know has generally the Preference before most of the other Courtiers. He then told them what had happen'd concern∣ing the Picture of Psyche. Truly, Brother, said the Countess, I begin to fear the Consequence of this Affair; he seems to me most furiously

angry, and as doubtless he will come this way to look for his Table-book, so, if he finds you here, it will prove an additional Trouble to him; I conjure you by our Friendship, to leave us, and I will go back to the Countess of Oxford, and desire her not to tell him who I am. And do you think he does not know you, said Mrs. Howard? No, added the Countess, I come so seldom to Court, that if he has seen me at all, I dare say he does not remember me. My Lord Stanley desir'd his Sister to be satisfy'd, which she promis'd she would, provided he would stay no longer with them. He was no sooner gone, but she told Mrs. Howard, I think I did not amiss, in not suffering the Earl of Pembrook to have the Dissatisfaction of meeting with a Happy Rival, who is the Subject of his Com∣plaints in these Verses. Mrs. Howard com∣mended her Prudence, telling her, That she should have bin afraid of a Quarrel betwixt them.'

'In the mean while, the said Earl, having not without much Inquietude, discover'd the Loss of his Table-book, he hasten'd back to the Place from whence he came, and where he made Use of it; but not finding it there, and not questioning, but that the Ladies, whom he endea∣vour'd to avoid, had found it, he made up to a Walk, where he saw them; they prov'd to be the Countess of Oxford and the Countess of Bath, who expected the Return of the Countess of Devonshire: He accosted them, and after having signify'd his Satisfaction at their Happy Meeting, begg'd them to restore to him his Table-book. We found it, said the Countess of Oxford, without knowing that it belonged to you, my Lord; We were so far Mistresses of our own Curiosity, that if you have any Secrets in

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it, be assur'd we are ignorant of them. I don't pretend, Madam, reply'd he, to deserve the trouble you could give you of the least Con∣cerns in my Affairs; so I am not in the least sur∣priz'd at your Indifferency upon that Account. We are not so indifferent as you imagine, reply'd the Countess of Bath, we were actually for break∣ing it, rather than not have it open'd, but my Lord Stanley oppos'd it.'

'At these Words the Earl chang'd Colour, and had these Ladies bin in the least acquainted with both their Concerns, they might soon have discover'd, both in his Eyes and Counte∣nance, the Discomposure of his Mind: But, as they knew nothing of the Adventure of the Picture, they told him, it was the Countess of Devonshire, who had found and kept it; she is Walking in the next Wood, said they, with Mrs. Howard and my Lord Stanley, where you may ask for it. He parted from them with a most profound Reverence, but not without some Vexation, considering my Lord Stanley was with the Countess of Devonshire, and fearing, lest he might have open'd the Table-book, and read his Complaints against Lelia, in order to divert himself with her at his cost.'

'Distracted with these Considerations, he came to a Shady Walk, which my Lord Stanley hap∣pening to cross at the same time, but so, as to endeavour to avoid being seen by they Earl, and this creating in him a Suspicion, that he had the Table-book, and intended to keep it for his Diversion, he follow'd him a-pace, crying after him, Stay, stay, my Lord; and so advancing in a threatening Posture, with his Hand upon his Sword, demanded the Table-book of him. My Lord, reply'd fiercely, he had none of his Table-book, and so likewise laying his Hand to his

Sword, they without further ado, Drew upon one another, and, Attack'd one another with such Resolution, that, in all Probability had prov'd Fatal to them, had not the Countess of Devonshire and Mrs. Howard, who were not far off, run to them, and with most violent Outcries for Help, thrown themselves most courageously betwixt their Swords, to part these Two Rivals.'

'My Lord Stanley had no great reason to be dissatisfy'd, as having the Preference before his Rival with Mrs. Lelia: And as for the Earl of Pembrook, he had no sooner cast his Eyes upon the Fair Countess of Devonshire, but struck with Admiration at her Beauty, this so entirely raz'd out of his Mind, all the Remembrance of Lelia, as if his Heart had never sigh'd after any thing but the Countess, who now stood before him, and whom he had seen several times before with∣out being struck with her Perfections; whether it were that he did not then take so much notice of her, as now, or whether the Fatal Hour of sur∣rendering his Heart, were not then come, we will not determine: But now, taking the Point of his Sword in his Hand, he presented it, with a most Gallant and Respectful Air, to the Lady, and with one Knee bent to the Ground, I am vanquish'd, Madam, said he; I begg at your Hands a Life I could wish to sacrifice in your Service. I did not intend to disarm your Per∣son, said she, but only to allay your Indignation, intreating him to rise from the Ground: But, my Lord, since you have given me Encouragment to desire a Favour of you, grant my Request, and be Friends immediately with my Brother; I am satisfy'd it will not be his Fault, if you are not so, and the Subject of your Quarrel being so inconsiderable, I should be much asham'd to have

undertaken this Reconciliation, without succeed∣ing in it. You are capable of doing every thing, reply'd the Earl, you are absolute Mistress of my Destiny. At these Words, advancing some Steps towards my Lord Stanley, he did the same towards him, and so, without enlarging further upon the Matter, they embrac'd, and talk'd together like very good Friends; when the Countesses of Oxford and Bath somewhat surpriz'd at their long stay, came to look after them. Being soon inform'd concerning the Quarrel betwixt the Earl and my Lord, they oblig'd them once more to embrace one another, and engaged their Honour for their being good Friends for the future; the Earl of Pembrook being very forwards in making the first Step, because he flatter'd himself, that by going along with my Lord Stanley, he might find an easie Access into the Earl of Devonshire's House.'

'The Countess of Oxford had a Magnificent Supper ready for her Guests in the best Appart∣ment of the House, adorn'd with many fine Statues and Pictures, and among the rest a most excellent Piece of Psyche: The Earl of Pembrook looking very attentively upon it, I am afraid, said the Countess of Devonshire, least this Picture should revive in you certain Motions of spite against my Brother. Ah! Madam, said he, I am far from reflecting at this time upon the Subject of our Quarrel; no, I have no more Passion for Lelia, I don't regret the Loss of my Psyche; but the Felicity of Love, Madam, since I could wish my self to be in her Place; I would Wound a certain Female Mortal, which appears to me to be so far plac'd above the rest of her Sex, that nothing less than an Immortal ought to presume to please her. Your Thoughts soar very high, my Lord, reply'd the Countess: But

this must be attributed to your high Deserts. She gave him no further Leisure to continue his Discourse, his Eyes sufficiently betray'd his Sen∣timents, and whatever Care he took all the re∣maining part of the Evening, to come near her, she was so dexterous in shunning all Opportuni∣ties, tho' without the least shew of Affectation, that he could never meet with her, but in the Company of other Ladies. He was not insensi∣ble of it; Love makes Use of Perspective-glasses, which discover at a distance such things, as in∣different Persons would scarce take notice of. He was not much acquainted with this kind of Reservedness; his great Qualifications, join'd to the Charms of his Wit, most commonly sheltred him against such like disagreeable Accidents, and his Passion being as yet in its beginning, he flat∣ter'd himself with Success, if he could apply himself in good earnest, in the pursuit of his expected Happiness.'

'He manag'd Matters so well with my Lord Stanley, that he conducted him to the Countess his Sister; but found it a much more easie Task to oblige my Lord Devonshire, for whom he had no more than a general Complaisence in point of Policy, than to please her whom he Ador'd. Her Deportment towards him, was kept in so exact a Ballance betwixt a handsome Decorum and an exact Reservedness, that he had not the least occasion either to complain or to flatter himself; at the same time there was nothing that could have prov'd a greater Affliction to him, consi∣dering it was impossible for him to quit these flattering Hopes that supported his Passion: He wanted Patience to hearken to her Discourse with Complaisance, because he even wanted Resolu∣tion to discover his Passion, having miss'd a thousand Opportunities that fell in his Way, for

fear of displeasing this Beautiful Person: Thus smothering his Secret in the very innermost Re∣cess of his Heart, the only Comfort he had to allay his Pain, was, that he flatter'd himself, her Indifferency to be the same to all the World; That time might afford him some unlook'd for Assistance, and that at least he should have the Pleasure of seeing of her very often. But not∣withstanding his Silence, the Countess was sensi∣ble of his tender Sentiments for her, which per∣haps might have made some Impressions upon her, had not the Merits of the Earl of Warwick so far touch'd her Heart, as to put it beyond all Ca∣pacity of taking notice of the Earl of Pembrook's Passion.'

This was the State of Affairs at Court, when the King told the Earl of Pembrook, That he was in Love with the Countess of Devonshire, as well as the Earl of Warwick, and order'd him, as I told you before, to go to the said Earl, and to engage him to make such an Ingenious Confession as might merit his Pardon. It was then the Earl of Pembrook began to call to mind how often he had observ'd the Countess of Devonshire in a Pensive Condition; how often he had heard certain Sighs, that seem'd to escape her unawares; what unsea∣sonable Answers she us'd to give, and with what Satisfaction she us'd to hear them talk of the Earl of Warwick. As he was ignorant that she knew him, so he little suspected of suffering any thing upon his Account on that side; but at this very Moment he began to be fully convinc'd of his ap∣proaching Misfortunes, since he met with a Ri∣val in the Person of his best Friend, and such a one, whose inevitable Destruction was at hand, if the King's Indignation were but never so little heighten'd against him. He stood in need of all

his Generosity, to espouse, at this Conjuncture, the Interest of the Earl of Warwick, which perhaps he would not have done, had not his Master's Passion for the Countess threaten'd him with the same Dangers; so that considering how blameable it would appear to his own Heart, if he should be instrumental in adding to his Disgrace, which so sensibly afflicted him already, he resolv'd to sacri∣fice Love to Friendship, and be serviceable to his Rival, as long as he continu'd to be unfortunate; but to break with him, as soon as he should cease to be so.

He understood that the Earl of Warwick had not bin gone to Bed, till within two Hours before, having spent the rest of the Night, in giving In∣structions to his Gentleman, concerning what he was to say to the Countess of Devonshire and to Albine: He was so very careful not to forget any thing, that he repeated the same thing a thousand times, and now after his Departure, thinking to take some rest, was soon disturb'd by the Earl of Pembrook. After having given him an Account of the whole matter, Don't think, added he, of justifying your self, by disowning the thing, for the King has order'd me to produce before your Face the Witnesses of your Passion for the Countess, and of your Breach of Faith to him; he is re∣solv'd to be well inform'd of the whole, even to the meanest Circumstance, and then he will consi∣der, whether to do you Justice, or afford you his Pardon. The Earl of Warwick enrag'd at the sight of the Letters he writ to Madam Grey, That Perfidious Woman, cry'd he, has made me a Sacrifice: She was in the right on't, to imagine, that it was not on account of her own Person, I should scarce have taken so much Pains for her; but time will come, when I shall make her sensible of my Indignation. 'Tis now no Time to think

of Revenge, said the Earl, you must find a way to appease the King. And how is that to be done, reply'd the Earl of Warwick? He knows al∣ready, that I love my Lady Devonshire, and how can I then make it known to him? And as for my renouncing this Passion, all the joint Powers upon Earth shall never compel me to do it. The King wants to know whether you are belov'd, said the Earl of Pembrook. Belov'd, reply'd the Earl of Warwick, I know nothing of that; but if I am not, I don't despair of being so. The Earl of Pembrook found himself touch••d to the quick at these Words; However, he so well dissembled the Torments of his Mind, that he discover'd nothing of it at that time. Questionless, added he, you are enter'd into a very pleasing Correspondence with this Fair Lady. 'Tis true, said the Earl, I have writ to her, and she has somtimes sent me an Answer. And that full of Tenderness, said my Lord Pembrook. No, answer'd he, she acts with a great deal of Circumspection and Mistrust. How can this be consistent, reply'd he, with the Liberty that was given you, to have an Interview with her in the Night time? How I, cry'd the Earl! Yes you, reply'd he; the King knows the whole Intrigue Alas! What then would he have more of me, reply'd my Lord Warwick, with an impa∣tient Countenance? He would have, said the Earl, an exact account of all the Transactions belonging thereto, from the greatest to the meanest Cir∣cumstance.

The Earl of Warwick pausing a while upon the Matter, and afterwards turning his Eyes towards him, with a settled Assurance, My Lord, said he, I respect the King as my Soveraign, and as my Master; and I may say it without Vanity, That without me, he had perhaps bin neither one nor the other: But I love him besides all this, as the

best of my Friends. I begg of him, to take Pity of the Frailties of my Heart, which not always consults Reason, before it surrenders it self: I fell in Love with the Countess of Devonshire, before I knew any thing of his Majesty's Passion for her: When he did me the Honour to make me his Con∣fident therein, it was too late for me to hope for a Cure; I rather cherish'd my Fetters, and con∣ceal'd them with all possible Care, not so much out of fear to disoblige the King, as out of a de∣sire of pleasing the Person I Ador'd: At last her Departure threw me into so deep a Melancholly, Vexation and Extravagancy, that I discover'd my self, in Writing certain Verses instead of the Speech the King dictated to me. Madam Grey has taken this Opportunity to contrive my Ruin, by shewing my Letters; but after all, What is it they can do to me? As long as I am prepossess'd with the same Passion as I now am, nothing, but what has a relation to that, will have any Effect upon me: All the rest, whether good or bad, whether Rewards or Chastisements, all this, I say, will not affect me: And this is perhaps the only Thing in this Intrigue, the King is not acquainted with as yet; and this being all I can tell him, pray let him know it from me. The Earl of Pembrook, who was his real Friend, desir'd him to alter his Resolutions, and by an account, without reserve, to appease his Majesty. He told him, He could say no more, That he was not Happy, but that, if his Fortune should prove more favourable, all the most Cruel Torments should not force from his Mouth, as much as one Word, that might prove injurious to the Honour of a Lady that was so dear to him; and that it could not but vex him to the Heart, to find the King to have so ill an Opinion of him, as to think him capable of betraying the Favours of a Lady. The Earl of

Pembrook represented to him the ill Consequences of his Obstanacy. But he told him, He would expect the Stroak with Tranquillity, having this secret Satisfaction, That he knew nothing where∣with to reproach himself.

These Ambiguous Answers made the Earl of Pembrook's Thoughts fluctuate betwixt Hope and Fear; sometimes he thought the Earl no more Happy than himself, and at other times he did not doubt, but that he liv'd in certain Hopes of being belov'd; but as all this remain'd in an in∣certitude, so the more he abandon'd himself to these Reflections, the more matter of Trouble he encounter'd with, in unfolding the Mistery. Alas! said he, I have not had Courage enough to speak, nay, not so much as to suffer my Eyes, to make known my present Condition; and the Earl has writ to this Countess, nay, has had an Interview with her in the midst of a dark Night: For, tho' he did not absolutely confess it, who can doubt it, after what has happen'd when he was taken up by the Watch? See how I pay for my Timidity, my respectful Silence is punish'd, as if it were a Crime. Thus Comfortless he goes back to the Court, with so dejected a Countenance, as if he had bin very Sick: The King was sur∣priz'd at the sight thereof, and could not for bear to shew him some peculiar Marks of good Will, for being so perfect a Friend. When he gave an account to his Majesty of what had pass'd be∣twixt the Earl and him, he left nothing unat∣tempted to allay the King's Indignation, and wrought so effectually upon the King, that he resolv'd not to Banish so far off, as he at first in∣tended: Nay, he begg'd the King to send him only to Chelsey; but the King being too well ac∣quainted with that Seat, as not to know what Pleasures he might enjoy there, he pitch'd upon

Caerleon for a Place of his Banishment. This had bin in former Ages a considerable City in South-Wales, seated upon the River Ʋsque, but whereof nothing being left now but Ruins and Miserable Remnants of Antiquity, this prov'd not a very convenient Place for the Entertainment of a Per∣son, so much accustom'd as he was to Pleasure and Magnificence.

The King now exasperated to a high degree, order'd the Earl of Pembrook to return immediate∣ly to the Earl of Warwick, and to tell him from him, That within two Hours he must depart for Caerleon. He was somewhat doubtful, whether he had best accept of this Commission, or whether he should desire the King to employ some body else in it; but at last, fearing, lest his Friend might not receive this Command with so much Submission as he ought to do, and that the same might be afterwards ill represented to the King, in hopes of consummating the Ruin of a Dis∣grac'd Favourite, most frequently practis'd among Courtiers, he was contented to undertake this Order, the better to take care of his Friends In∣terest: He thought it but requisite, to bring in by way of Introduction, certain things commonly made Use of, to prepare People's Minds against an ill Piece of News. To what purpose serve all these Precautions, my Lord, cry'd he, when I told you this Morning, that nothing could actually af∣flict me, unless it related to my Lady Devonshire; if nothing that is amiss, has befaln her, speak without fear, for I am prepar'd against all Events. You are to be sent out of the way, said the Earl of Pembrook, embracing him. I am overjoy'd at it, reply'd he, And has the King done me the Favour to pitch upon a Place remote from all Conversa∣tion with the World? A Desart, where I may employ my Thoughts Day and Night? where I

may send forth my Sighs and Complaints, for not seeing the Countess? and where, at last, I may not come near that dangerous She-Favourite of his, the Presence whereof will be always odious to me. Your Wishes are accomplish'd, said the Earl of Pembrook, Caerleon is the Place design'd by the King for your Banishment, and it is his Pleasure you should depart within two Hours. The time is very short, said the Earl, but no Matter, I shall be pleas'd once more with the Sight of the River Ʋsque: Pray tell the King, That within two Hours, I will be no more in London, and that I shall be very well pleas'd with my Place of Abode. They did bid one another Farewel with all the Tenderness imaginable; for the Earl not knowing my Lord of Pembrook to be his Rival, there was nothing that interfer'd with their Friendship on his side. He left London with so much Precipitation, that he would not so much as take his Leave of the Arch-bishop of York, and the Marquess of Montague, his Brothers: For, he fear'd, that they being incens'd at his ill Treat∣ment, might urge him to go over to Calas, whereof he was then Governour; and by putting himself under the Protection of the French King, revenge himself of King Edward.

The Earl of Warwick's Gentleman coming to Twittenham with Letters from the Dutchess of Norfolk to my Lady Anglesey, thought not fit to deliver them himself for fear of being known, but gave them to the French Gardener, his pre∣tended Master, to give them to that Lady, whilst he kept at a distance in one of the darkest Corners of the Room. The Countess of Anglesey much pleas'd with the Draughts this Gardener shew'd her, pitch'd upon one for her Garden, ordering him to begin it the next Day. The Fellow was very well pleas'd with it, being born and train'd

up in this kind of Work, but agreed but very in∣differently with Berincour, he being but little us'd to Hardship; especially since the Countess being very eager to have it brought to Perfection, and there being abundance of Weeds to be cut up, and other matters to be done, he that was to Survey the Work, us'd often to check him after a very rough manner. His best Comfort was, That he saw the Countess of Devonshire taking a Walk every Day in a Shady Wilderness, at the End of the Place where they were at Work; but in so Melancholly a Condition, and accompany'd by so many Surveyers, that he durst not speak to her for fear of being discover'd. As for Albine, she did not appear for a considerable time, being detain'd in Bed by an Ague; so that the poor Earl, who impatiently long'd for some News in his Solitude, could not hear of any a good while that might be pleasing to him Berincour knew that Albine was Sick, at last took an Opportunity to let her know by a young Woman, with whom he dined some times, That if she pleas'd, he could Cure her, provided she would let him apply cer∣tain Herbs to her Wrests, which would produce an almost stupendious Effect. So she sent for him, and he, after some superstitious Ceremonies, ap∣ply'd the Herbs to her Wrests; but at the same time, did not forget to revive her Eye-sight with the Lustre of the Jewel his Master had sent her by him, which he held in his Hand, so as to be seen by no body but her self The old Albine dazled with the Brightness thereof, soon got out of Bed into the Garden, where she call'd for the Garden∣er's Man, under pretence that he should assist her in supporting her to Walk, whilst they might talk of the most stupendious Operations and Cure perform'd by his Herbs.

So soon as he had an Opportunity of speaking to her, he told her, That the Earl had no other Hopes left, but what he expected from her Assist∣ance, having sent him on purpose to acquaint her with every thing that pass'd: That he was afflicted to the Heart, because he heard no News from my Lady Devonshire, since she had left London, and therefore had given him a large Letter di∣rected to my Lady, and a Jewel for her. Things have faln out so unexpectedly, answer'd Albine, and the young Countess has so possitively forbid me to entertain any further Correspondence with the Earl, that this join'd to the Impossibility of Writing, without being discover'd by so many Argus's as we have about us, I saw my self con∣strain'd to be quiet, when I wish'd I could have done otherwise. She then told him what had happen'd with the Watch; the unfortunate Ac∣cident of the Jewel and Picture; the Jealousy of the Earl, and the Vexation of the Countess of Devonshire, and how she had bin reprimanded by her Mother. What must we do, my dear Albine, said Berincour? My Master can't live if your Mistress perseveres in her Rigour; I conjure you by all that is good, to procure me a Moment to speak with her, or at least, take my Letter, and let me have an Answer. I can promise you no∣thing, said Albine, you may be assur'd of my Zeal for your Service. For fear their Conversation should have created some Suspicion if it had continu'd longer, Albine went out of the Garden, but fail'd not to come again every Day, and would talk with Berincour under some favourable pretence or other.

I told you before, he was a Handsome Fellow, so that, notwithstanding the Sun had made him as Tawny as a Tawny-Moor, and his being much har∣rass'd with continual Labour, the old Gentle∣woman

took a great Fansie to him: She suppos'd nothing could be more proper, than to make a Match betwixt the He and She Confidents of two Rich Lovers: That the Earl being in a Condition to make his Gentleman's Fortune, my Lady would shew no less Liberality and Goodness for her: To be short, she had got the Match so far in her Head, that she took but little concern in the Affair of the Earl of Warwick, and whenever she found her self urg'd by Berincour, she would tell him, she was forc'd to act with a great deal of Precaution. What makes you, said he, detain me thus here? You know what Danger I am in if I am discover'd; I am oblig'd to Work from Day-break till Night; I am ready to die for Vexation, and am convinc'd you don't intend to do any further Service to my Master. How impa∣tient are you, reply'd she, and how little concern you shew, and the Trouble I take of coming so frequently to talk with you: Alas! were your Heart as inclinable to gratitude, as mine is, you would not be so eager for going, but would make the best Use of the present Opportunity. At these Words, Berincour was ready to burst out a laughing: but having forborn it with much ado, he told her, That all this time his Thoughts were taken up with his Master's Affairs, but that for the future she might be sure of all his Applications, and that she should be satisfy'd how passionately he lov'd her. Albine being un∣certain whether she had best believe him or not, And how can I be assur'd, reply'd she, that you will Love me, if you don't Love me already? I should much suspect a Passion, that is so much at your Command. He told her, That his seeing and loving her were of the same Date; That if she would dispatch him quickly, he would soon re∣turn on purpose to Court her. This Promise

set the old Gentlewoman to Work; for the same Evening, she told my Lady Devonshire, That nei∣ther her Silence nor her Coldness being able to check the Earls P••ssion, he had left no Stone un∣turn'd to hear some News of her, and that his Gentleman was there in Disguise to deliver her a Letter, which she had undertaken to give to her.

The Countess's Colour changed at these Words; Will you Ruin me Albine, said she? have you al∣ready forgot how much I have suffered only for having acted with less Reservedness than I should have done? And though I have nothing that is Material to upbraid my self withal, 'tis ne∣vertheless too much to give the World real Cause of Suspicion. Don't speak to me any more of the Earl of Warwick, my Stubborn Heart is too apt to do it without you. How! Madam, said Albine to her, will you refuse to accept his Letter? Yes, I will refuse it, reply'd she, Give it back to him who brought it to you, and order him from me to be gone. Albine, not a little surprized at this resolute Answer, You will then prove the Cause of his Death, said she, or perhaps he will commit such a Piece of Ex∣travagancy, as you will have occasion to repent of as long as you live. And how long is it, reply'd the Countess, with an angry look, since Men have that Liberty of Persecuting a Woman, that is inclined to adhere strictly to her Duty? Leave me at rest Albine, the Force I put upon my Inclinations, is ready to put an end to my Life; but what matter is it, added she, with a very Me∣lancholy Air, since I have nothing that should render Life more desireable to me. At these Words, the Tears beginning to stand in her Eyes, Albine look'd upon it as a favourable Mi∣nute to engage her to open the Earl's Pacquet,

Madam, said she, throwing her self at her Feet, don't you refuse to Read this Letter, my Lord Warwick will otherwise think you slight him; and how do you think a Man of his Haughty Temper can digest such a usage as this? Per∣haps his Love may turn into Hatred. Oh! let him Hate me, cry'd she, 'tis all I desire him to do. But all this while, her Heart not be∣ing strong enough to retain her Sighs with∣in her Breast, and Albine watching narrowly every one of her Motions, did not fail to tell her a Thousand Reasons, to engage her to o∣pen the Pacquet; But seeing the Countess would not do it, she did Read it aloud before her: The Countess had weakness enough to hear it Read, but cou'd not be prevail'd upon to re∣turn an Answer.

Albine having given a full account of all that had pass'd, to Berincour, he found such an a∣greeable Mixture of Tenderness and Vertue in this Proceeding of my Lady Devonshire, that he could not forbear to Compassionate her Con∣dition, and to wish, that his Master would de∣sist from pursuing the Matter any further. Not∣withstanding which, he fail'd not to entreat the old Gentlewoman to renew her Temptations, to obtain a few Lines from her Hands, and she was not sparing either of her Arguments nor Prayers; but the Countess tired with her impor∣tunity, threatning to acquaint her Lord with it; She found now, there was nothing to be done for Berincour, but to return to his Master, and to give some Colour to his Departure, The Head Gardener pretended, he had occasion to send him to London, to Buy some things he stood in need of.

Berincour knew nothing of his Masters Exile∣ment; but being inform'd thereof at London, he

went straightways to Caerleon; coming thither, he understood he was walking on the Banks of the River Ʋsque; And the Gentleman, as he went in search for him, found on several Trees, Engrave•• the Cyphers of the Countess, and divers Verses he had composed upon her. The Earl no sooner espy'd him, but full of impatience ran to meet him, asking what Answer he brought from the Countess of Devonshire? Whereupon, Berincour desired him to have Patience to hearken to what he had to say. The Account he receiv'd from him, serving only to make him think him∣self more unhappy than really he was, threw him into a very deep Melancholly, and he now began to fansy, that Albine, out of a Motive of self Interest, had flattered him with all those Tender Relations, She said she had understood in Conversing with his Mistress; and that it was too true, that she had no more than a bare Indifferency for him, because she would not Write to him. This Opinion being back'd by many Circumstances, threw him into a most violent Anguish: Thus he spent Three days, un∣der the greatest Incertitude what to do; till at last, he resolv'd to send back Berincour to the Countess, and to fill his Letters with such urg∣ing Complaints and Declarations of Respect, that she should not remain insensible thereat. His Gentleman, who not very well liked his Errand, represented to him, but in vain, how little like∣lihood there was for better Success in this Se∣cond, than in his First Journey; But he upbraid∣ing him with Want of Affection, he departed in the old Disguise of a Gardener, the better to conceal himself from every body.

During his Absence, my Lady Devonshire, who was with Child, narrowly escaped being kill'd by a Fall; So that upon his Arrival

there, he was told by Albine, that it would be very difficult for her Mistress to find a favourable Opportunity of speaking to him; because she was very seldom left alone. But, added she, What happens very Fortunate, is, that I shall of∣ten see you; so we must talk concerning our Marriage; and if we can't accomplish the Earl of Warwick and the Countesses Business, at least we will take care of our own. Make not the least account upon that, said he to her, with an an∣gry look, my Fortune depends on the Success of this Negotiation, and unless my Master be sa∣tisfy'd, I will never think of Marriage. These Words having added new Life and Vigour to the Old Gentlewoman's Desires, she immediate∣ly acquainted her Mistress with the News of the return of the Earl's Gentleman, which proved a fresh occasion of Trouble to her. She Com∣manded her positively not to take his Letters; and that, if he did not withdraw from the House forthwith, she would make him repent of it. The Old Confident seeing her so Reso∣lute, could do no otherwise than tell Berincour, that he had best to depart with the first op∣portunity, and that all the Earl would be able to do for the future, would be in vain, be∣cause the Countess had taken this opportunity of his absence, to hearken to her Reason; That she made every day more and more Progress in recalling her Inclinations from him, and there∣fore was resolv'd not to Read any of his Let∣ters, lest his Passionate Expressions should revive in her Heart, an Idea she had found too Dear and too Dangerous for her Repose.

Berincour had nothing to object against what he was told by Albine; But being too well ac∣quainted with his Master's Temper, to venture at his Return, without some more Comfortable

Answer, he told her, That since his so sudden Departure would be infallibly attended with some remarkable ill Consequences, he only de∣sired some time to do it at his own leasure, and when he saw a fit opportunity to do it; and Albine managed the Matter so far with my Lady Devonshire, that she gave Ear to this Proposi∣tion. The Countess had done all that possibly could be done, when she refus'd with so firm a Resolution to read the Letters of the Earl of Warwick; but notwithstanding her real desire of Remembring him no more, nay, even of Hating him, 'tis certain, that not a Day pass'd, but she felt within her self certain strong Inclinations for him. No, said she, to her Confident, I would never forgive my self for these Sentiments I still preserve for him, were it not that by the Violences I daily impose upon my self, I were sufficiently convinc'd, that one is not Mistress of ones own Inclinations; a certain fatal Constel∣lation has made me see the Earl, and since that unhappy Moment, neither all the Reflections I can make in respect of my self, nor the Mo∣tives of my Duty, nor the Advantage of his Absence, have bin able to raze him out of my Thoughts. Albine being a Person who pre∣ferr'd her own Interest before all other Conside∣rations, was so far from urging her Mistress to keep stedfast to her Resolution, that she excus'd her Frailty, alledging many Instances of that Nature; which instead of perfecting the Cure, might serve rather to encrease her Distem∣per.

This was the Condition of this Fair Lady, when she just had got strength enough to take the Air in the Garden, the very Place where Berincour watch'd all her Motions, being resolv'd to take the first favourable Opportunity of speaking to

her, He happen'd to meet with one, one Day, when he saw the Countess Reading in an Arbour, her Woman being at a good distance from her to gather a Nose-gay: He at the same time run immediately to the Place where he knew the choicest Flowers were, took care to gather such of them as he judg'd by their odoriferous Scent and various Colours, might be most agreeable to her; these he presented to her in a Basket, and she casting her Eyes first upon the Flowers, and afterwards upon the Gardener, was soon con∣vinc'd he was the Earl's Gentleman: She Blush'd at the Sight of him, and was a going into the next Walk; but besides that, she had not recover'd as yet her full Strength, the suddenness of so sur∣prizing a Sight had so far impair'd the Use of her Limbs, that she saw her self oblig'd to sit down again in the same Place. Madam, said Berincour to her, you know very well who I am, and what it is I hope for from your Goodness. What is it you would have with me, said she with a trembling Voice, Has not Albine spoke to you concerning me? But I can't believe, added he, what she tells me, since I can't Imagine, Madam, the Earl of Warwick to have given you sufficient occasion to hate him to such a degree, as to procure his Death in refusing to Read his Letter and giving me an Answer. No, reply'd she abruptly, I will have no manner of Correspondence with him: What is it I have done to him, that he should thus persecute me in a Solitude, which ought to shelter me against the Danger of his Remembrance? Let him be Happy at Court, but leave me in Repose. You don't know then, Madam, reply'd he, how much he deserves your Compassion? The King has Banish'd him into a kind of a Desart, where he would live contented, would you but take the least share in his Pain. The Countess stood sur∣priz'd;

for tho' this Piece of News was well known in the Family, they had conceal'd it from her, because they would not mention the Earl's Name. Alas! all her preceeding Reso∣lutions of Indifferency could not stand the brunt of this Surprize; the Air of her Face, nay, her Voice began to change into a milder Disposition, she took the Letters Berincour deliver'd to her, and having hid them carefully, immediately left the Arbour and Garden, being very impatient to see what the Earl had writ to her: The whole Packet contain'd no less than Six Letters, but it will be sufficient to insert one, which may save as a Pattern, to give a Judgment of all the rest.

WHen you hear the News of my Banishment, you will doubtless pity me, Madam, and will believe that I look upon it as a Disgrace; but I have not so much Sense left as to be sensible of it: The Sentiments I preserve for you, make me indifferent to every thing that does not concern you; and I am so far from being alone in this Dismal Solitude, that I am in better Company than ever I was at Court: Yes, Divine Countess, I am entirely possess'd with your Idea; I carry it every where about me, and it is my constant Entertainment, neither could I wish for any thing in the World that would please me better, since I am depriv'd of seeing you any more; so that I dare affirm, That if I am unhappy, 'tis owing only to your Indifferency. Alas! Madam, What Crime have I committed against you, to cause me so much Pain? I Love you, and that is my Crime: But don't we also Love the Gods, and they are not of∣fended at it? And tho' I pay you the same Respect as we do to them, you treat me more rigorously than they would do. Afford a few Lines of your own Hand Writing, to the Violence and Purity of my Passion,

this being the only Remedy I desire to allay all the Evils you make me suffer.

My Lady Devonshire had no sooner read the Earl of Warwick's Letter, but she call'd Albine into her Closet, who seeing her Mistress all in Tears, could not conceive what fresh Occasion of Grief was befaln her. Don't be surpriz'd, said she, these Tears I shed are too reasonable to be stopt; I am afflicted to see my self still guilty of so much Weakness; the Earl's Exilement touches me to the Heart. His Exilement, Madam, reply'd Al∣bine! Berincour has not said one Word of it to me. I wish, continu'd the Countess, this Secret had bin kept from me, as well as it has bin from you, I should then have no occasion of reproaching my self, with having read a Letter, from a Person whose Correspondence occasions so much Trouble to the Earl of Devonshire. Albine then made use of all her Rhetorick, to persuade her Mistress, that she could not, without much Injustice, refuse her Pity to an unfortunate Man; she extoll'd the Earl's Merits above the Skies, and this dangerous Confident so continually tormented and disturb'd her with her Arguments and Entreaties, that in spite of all her former Resolutions, not to write to the Earl, she could not forbear to send him an Answer in these Words:

IF that Esteem which I have hitherto preserved for you, deserves an Acknowledgment, Don't re∣member, my Lord, that you ever saw me, and permit me to enjoy a Tranquillity, I am not Mistress of now: I can't imagine why you shou'd persist in persecuting of me; for so I must call those Demonstrations of a Passion which is offensive to me, and which had before this, produc'd my Hatred against you, were I in a Condition of hating you: However, the Impossibility I

am under of loving you, because I ought not; and of hating you, because I cannot; deserves all the Com∣passion you are capable off. Assist me then in finding out such a Disposition to Indifferency, as may prove the Glory and Repose of my Life.

She left off in all probability sooner than she in∣tended, because her Tears stopt the Course of her Pen; her Heart checking her Hand for an Action, so opposite to the Promise she had made to her Mother and Husband. She told Albine she would tear the Letter, for fear of some sinister Consequences, and she was actually going to do it, when Albine clapping her Hand upon it, took and hid it in her Bossom. No, Madam, said she, I must not give it you again, there is no reason you should so suddenly alter your Resolution, in behalf of a Person who has done nothing to dis∣please you: You forbid him to Love you, he ought to have it under your own Hand, and then he will have no reason to flatter himself; and I am almost certain this is the Way to Cure him. Do'st thou believe so, Albine, reply'd the Countess, much concern'd, then I will not send the Letter. But soon recollecting her self, What is it I say, con∣tinu'd she? What did I say? What are my Intenti∣ons? Would I suffer my self to be belov'd by any other Person but the Earl of Devonshire? Whilst the Countess was thus fixing her Resolution, to break off all Correspondence with the Earl, and to begin with the burning of the Letter she had writ just before, Albine considering, she could do no greater piece of Service to Berincour, than to give it him, in order to deliver it to his Master, slipt out of the Closet unperceiv'd by her Mistress, and running straight into the Garden, put the Let∣ter into the Gentleman's Hands.

During Berincour's late Journey to Caerleon, the before-mention'd French Gardener was faln in Love with a Handsome young English Damsel, and as it is a hard Task to keep any thing from what one loves, this Gardener was not altogether so much taken up with his Courtship, but that he would sometimes Talk of his Companion; and this young Woman taking particular notice of this Gentleman in Disguise, began to like him so well, that she thought, if she were born a Gentle∣woman, she could be much better satisfy'd with him, than with a Country Fellow: At last she could not forbear to speak concerning him to her Mother, and it would have bin Death to the old Woman, not to tell the Secret to her Husband: So the Gardener perceiving the thing to have taken Vent thought it his safest way, to declare the whole Truth thereof himself to the Earl of Devonshire. He was touch'd to the quick at this News, not knowing what to resolve upon; some∣times he was for cutting Berincour's Throat be∣fore his Lady's Face, and then to carry things to the utmost Extremity. Soon after he was speak∣ing to the Earl of Anglesey, to desire satisfaction of him, on account of his Daughter: Love, Jea∣lousy, Honour, Tenderness and Hatred, enter'd into a most Cruel Combat within his Breast. Di∣stracted with these various Agitations of his Mind, the Chevalier d' Hereford his Kinsman, and one of his most intimate Friends, comes to Twit∣tenham, to spend Two or Three Days with the Earl; who looking upon his Arrival as one of the most seasonable things that could have happen'd, desir'd him to take a Walk upon the Side of the River Thames: They were no sooner come at some Distance from those that attended them, but, after a few Moments silence, You see the most un∣fortunate of Mankind, said he to the Chevalier, I

came to this River with no other Intention, than to throw my self to the Bottom of it, to put an end to those Misfortunes I was not Born to. Hereford looking upon him like a Man amaz'd, What has happen'd to you, my Lord, said he? You know I am absolutely yours, let me be a Sharer in your Discontents, perhaps I may help you to support them with the more Patience. Oh! said the Earl, my Pain owes its Original to a Cause which exceeds all ordinary Pains: That Excess of Friendship I always had for my Lady Devonshire, is now the deadly Cause of my Grief. How! cry'd the Chevalier, You don't complain of her? I can't imagine what Reason you should have for it. Hear me, said the Earl, interrupting him, and I will leave it to your own Judgment. He then gave him an ample account of the whole Matter, intermixing his Relation with Tender Reproaches, and Violent Threats, no otherwise than if he had bin talking to his Lady, whence it was easie to guess, that it would prove very difficult to moderate his Anger: However, the Chevalier having a fix'd and singular Esteem for the Countess, was resolv'd to undertake the Task.

You are not in a Condition to act in your own Person, said he to the Earl, because the Point in Question too nearly concerns you: Your Senses are impair'd, and you will see your Lady's Inno∣cence, even when you would not see it. Well, supposing the Earl of Warwick's Gentleman to be in your House Disguis'd like a Gardener, doubt∣less his Master sent him either to assist him in coming hither Incognito, or to receive his Let∣ters, and to deliver his Answers; it will be no hard matter for you to find out the true reason thereof, give him but a little Opium, and having got his Papers into your Hands, you may take the best Measures you can, without the least Noise.

If the Earl of Warwick, reply'd the Earl, keeps him here to favour his coming privately into the House, there is no way to find it out, unless by the Confession of this Gentleman. No Matter, reply'd the Chevalier, let us begin with my Propo∣sal, and we will end, as you shall think fit. The Chevalier prevailing with the Earl to follow his Advice, it was agreed to mix some Opium in the Gentleman's Drink, by the Assistance of one of their Faithful Domesticks, who met with no great Difficulty to perform his Promise. Berincour, who had work'd very hard all that Day in the Garden, being much tired at Night, and eager for his Supper, to go to Bed in good time, because he was to rise next Morning before Day-break, in order to depart with the so much desir'd Answer of the Countess's, he was to deliver to the Earl.

The Chevalier de Hereford, desir'd the Earl of Devonshire to leave the whole Management of this Affair to his Conduct; so that entring the pre∣tended Gardener's Chamber, in Company of that Person only who had procur'd the Opium, he found a very large Pacquet about him; what had increas'd its Bulk, was, That the Countess being resolv'd not to keep the Earl of Warwick's Letters, and having not Resolution enough to burn them, she sent them back along with her own Letter. The Chevalier much surpriz'd at the Sight of the Pacquet, was at a stand, whether to give it to the Earl or not, being ignorant of the Contents thereof, which he fear'd might turn to my Lady Devonshire's Ruin: It was then he made a thousand Melancholly Reflections upon the Misfortunes unto which too often the Imprudence of young People exposes them; and had he thought himself sure of his Opinion, he would certainly have a∣voided to give new cause of Trouble to his Kins∣man:

But the worst was, that besides that, the Domestick, who went along with him, had seen the Pacquet, the Earl of Devonshire would not be satisfy'd at an easie rate. And it prov'd so on the sequel, for he waited for him in a long Gallery, where disturb'd with his Inquietudes he walk'd up and down a-pace, and no sooner saw the Cheva∣lier, but laying his Hand to his Sword, not know∣ing very well what he did, or what he would have, ask'd him abruptly for the Letters. I am a com∣ing to give them to you, said the Chevalier; and then delivering them to the Earl, he tore the Covert and Signets, and soon knew the first the Earl's, and then his Lady's Hand writing; at the last of which he stood very much surpriz'd, whilst the Chevalier was highly pleas'd thereat.

You see, my Lord, said he, the Countess is not guilty; the Earl of Warwick Persecutes her, he sends his Gentleman without her knowledge; she forbids him to Love her; she is angry with him; she will not so much as keep his Letters, which would appear pleasing to any other Woman but her self; What further Satisfaction can you desire? You represent to me, reply'd he, my Wife's Conduct on the fairest Side; but let us take the thing as really it is, What can you say for a young Lady, who suffers a Gentle∣man of so dangerous a Person as the Earl of War∣wick is, to stay in her Family? Who lets him a∣bide there in Disguise? Who keeps his Secret? Who receives his Letters? And who in effect tells him that she Loves him, in telling him, That she can't hate him? In what Country besides this, would such kind of Freedom be allow'd of with Patience? The Chevalier let him go on in his Dis∣course, without the least Contradiction, for fear of exasperating him the more, in case he should endeavour to convince him by strength of Reason,

which seldom takes place with Persons infected with Jealousy; but only conjur'd him, not to disturb the Repose of his whole Family, by noising the Thing abroad. At last he put him in mind, that the Countess had acquir'd the general good Opi∣nion of all the World, as a Person who in all re∣spects answer'd the Character of that Education she had by the Care of my Lady her Mother; but that if he suffer'd this matter, in the least, to take Vent, the Publick Rumour, which always makes a Monster of a Fly, would also, upon this occasion, not be spairing to aggrandize the Story: That if he would follow his Advice, he ought to manage the Point with the utmost Address and Nicety, and to contrive how to make a Breach betwixt her and the Earl; For, since it was evi∣dent by her Letter, that she preferr'd her Duty before all other Considerations, it would be no diffiult Task, to secure her in that Opinion. Ac∣cordingly it was agreed betwixt the Earl of De∣vonshire and the Chevalier, to keep the whole Secret from the knowledge of the Countess, and to write these few Words in a Woman's Character to the Earl of Warwick.

Let me be at rest, I will never hear you as much as to be spoken of.

They folded the Paper, and having made up the Pacquet just as it was before, seal'd it with just such another Seal as that of the Countess's; the Earl, who had given it to her, happening to have the fellow of it. Every thing being thus contriv'd, they put it again into Berincour's Pocket, unperceiv'd to him: And so, according as he had propos'd the Night before, he went away, to satisfy his Master, who expected his Return with the utmost Impatience.

I give you leave to guess at his Surprize and Resentment, at the reading of so rough and harsh a Farewel. How! Barbarous Woman, cry'd he, do I undergo this Cruel Exilement for your sake? I have lost the King's Favour, I was willing to sacrifice my Repose and my whole Fortune to the Satisfaction of pleasing you; you are not ignorant of it, my Letters and Addresses have sufficiently told it you; and you repay me with nothing but Disdain: No, no, don't imagine me to be not able to forget you, I break your Chains, and no∣thing shall be remaining of them, but the shame of wearing them. He added a thousand Re∣proaches to these Words, appearing for several Days like a Man in a Frenzy, who was combat∣ing nothing but Airy Phantasms, sometimes Dis∣comfited, sometimes Victorious, not knowing what Resolution to take. He would spend whole Nights near the River Ʋsque, addressing himself to the Trees and Rocks, without being sensible, for the most part, of what he said.

At last, this Distemper, the most dangerous of all sorts of Fevers, began to abate by Degrees; his Reason, which had lain conceal'd for a great while, began on a sudden to take its proper Sta∣tion, and display its Charms: 'Twas now he be∣gan to compassionate his Destiny, and be sensible of its Hardship. The same Desart, which so lately had appear'd to him the most delightful Place in the World, was now turn'd to the most disagreeable of all others: Hitherto the Days seem'd too short for him to ruminate upon his Passion, but now they were insupportable to him; and if now and then he thought of the Countess, it was in spite of himself, and to find out her De∣fects. He did not think fit to ask the Intercession of his Brothers with the King in his behalf, but pitch'd upon another Method: He sent Berincour

to such Friends as he knew could be serviceable to him, but more especially to the Earl of Pem∣brook, to desire him to acquaint the King, that he was ready to make a sincere Confession at his Feet, of every thing he had a mind to know concern∣ing this Intrigue, and that he would promise his Majesty, never to love the Countess of Devonshire any more. This News caused no small Satis∣faction to the Earl of Pembrook, who saw him∣self thus freed from a most dangerous Rival, without which he had but little hopes of meet∣ing with a favourable Reception from the Coun∣tess. This engag'd him to make his Applica∣tion to the King, with the utmost of his Zeal: However, that Prince did not think fit to grant a Request made so late; but would have his Penance bear some Proportion to his Fault; and that he should purchase his Pardon by his reiterated Prayers, which he refus'd to hearken to at present.

The Chevalier having engag'd the Earl of Devonshire upon his Honour, not to shew the least Indifferency or Anger to his Lady, and every thing being agreed betwixt them, in re∣lation to the further Management of this Af∣fair, he went to London, but came back into the Country soon after. 'Twas about the same time that the Earl of Warwick being recall'd from his Exile∣ment, those that were the most intimate Friends of the Earl of Devonshire, were the first who gave notice thereof to the said Earl; they fur∣ther told him, That the Earl had never appear'd more Gay in all his Life time, and that he was faln in Love with one of the Maids of Honour of the Dutchess of York, a Beautiful young Lady, and of a very good Family. The Earl of Devon∣shire was very ready to read these Letters be∣fore his Lady, who, at that time, diverting

her self with making some Silk Embrodery-work, was put into such a Confusion by this unexpect∣ed Piece of News, that she made some Roses, she was then working at, of a Blue Colour, and Jessamins and Jonquilles Green, without being sen∣sible of her Mistake: The Earl perceiv'd it to his singular regret, and would questionless have discover'd the most violent Marks of his Re∣sentment, had not the Chevalier come into the Room at that very Juncture of time. His Presence checking the Effects of his Indignation, he gave him an account of what he had observ'd: No, said he, there is no room for flattering my self any longer, That ingrateful Creature Loves him; She has too much betray'd the Inclinations of her Heart; I will be Reveng'd. But the Che∣valier so far prevail'd upon him by his most earnest Intreaties, that he was appeas'd for that time.

Within two Days after, the Chevalier de Here∣ford, as he was Walking with the Countess in the Garden, look'd upon this as a favourable Opportunity to manage his Design: He told her, He was sorry he should prove the Occasion of giving her some Disquiet; but that he could not, without blaming himself, forbear to ac∣quaint her with the Actions of the Earl of Warwick, who had so little regard to her Fa∣vours, as to shew her Letters abroad: That one of them being by good Fortune faln into his Hands, he had kept it, and was now come on purpose to restore it to her. The Countess judging no otherwise, than that he had bin set on by the Earl of Devonshire, to feel her Pulse, was a going to check his Boldness; but soon perceiving her own Hand writing, she turn'd as Pale as Ashes, but soon after a sudden red∣ness over-spreading her Face and Bosom, were

sufficient Demonstrations of her Confusion and Indignation. My Intentions were too sincere and unblemish'd, said she to the Chevalier, in writing this Billet, to have the least occasion of disowning it; and I dare promise my self, that, every thing being duly consider'd, it will turn rather to my Honour than Disgrace; at the same time it makes me sensible of the Base∣ness of the Earl of Warwick, against whom I from this time vow an implacable Hatred: He must certainly be one of the basest Men li∣ving, to play me such a Game; but I will assure him, it shall never be said, he contriv'd my Ruin for his own Diversion, since I will make him feel the Effects of my Resentment. Ma∣dam, reply'd the Chevalier, if you will give me leave to advise you, stifle this Matter, for fear it should come to my Lord Devonshire's Ears; you know him to be a Man too nice in certain Points; and the last time we came hither, he told me some part of his Affliction upon the Road: Believe me, Madam, the securest way a Lady of your Age and Birth can take, is, not to give any occasion of her being much talk'd of in Publick, since there are not wanting every where, such as will put the worst Interpreta∣tion upon the most Innocent Actions that can be: You live in a numerous Family, and the best way to obtain their Commendation, is, not to make your self a publick Discourse at Court, and that it may not be said, the Countess of Devonshire has bin quarreling such a Day, and such a Day, with the Earl of Warwick, be∣cause he shew'd a Letter she had written to him.

Whilst he was talking to her, she kept her Eyes immoveably fix'd on the Ground, and then bursting out into Tears, she thank'd him for

his Advice, assuring him that she would follow it, being resolv'd not to appear any more at Court, but to pass all the remainder of her Days in the Country. The Chevalier told her, it would not be for her good, thus to resolve upon such an Extream, since she could not re∣fuse to go along with the Family, if they went to London. She answer'd, She was resolv'd not to go thither, unless the Earl her Spouse should oblige her to it, which she suppos'd he would not; for Twittenham being not above Eight or Nine Miles from London, he might go and come at pleasure, without the least Inconveniency. The Chevalier, finding her so resolute, thought it more convenient to seem to approve of her Design, than to contest any longer in vain, especially since he knew the Earl of Devonshire intended to keep her in the Country for a consi∣derable time.

She was no sooner gone, but the Chevalier returning to the Earl of Devonshire's Apart∣ment, gave him an Account of their whole Con∣versation, and they were both extreamly well satisfy'd, both with this first good Success, and with the Resolution they had taken of breaking off the Correspondence with the Earl of Warwick, by furnishing them with occasion of mutual Complaints; whereas if they had made a Noise of the matter, it might have serv'd rather to cement their Affections, and Chevalier de Hereford being apprehensive, that his Kinsman might make some false Steps, con∣trary to what had bin agreed on betwixt them, seldom left him alone, taking all Opportunities of allaying his Anger.

My Lady Devonshire returning into her Closet, and throwing her self upon a Couch, without saying one Word to Albine, and she perceiving

some remarkable alterations in her looks, begg'd her to impart to her the reason of her Grief. Oh! Unhappy Woman, said the Countess with a surious look, 'Tis thou that art the Cause of my Grief; Thou hast plagued me to receive the Earl of Warwick's Letters, and it was thou who didst engage me, in spite of all my Fore∣sight, to return an answer to them. This Per∣fidious Man has Sacrific'd my Letter to his Mi∣stress, which would have bin handed about e∣very where, had not the Chevalier de Hereford, so far concern'd himself in my Honour and Quiet, as to put a stop to it; perhaps it might by this time have bin in my Husbands Hands: I am so highly exasperated at so Notorious an Injury, that I will never either forget or forgive it whilst I live. Albine appear'd like Thunder∣struck, without being able to utter one Word; and her Eyes being shut. she appear'd like one petrify'd or struck with Death, whilst my Lady Devonshire quite overcome with her own Grief, little troubled her self with her Confident. At last, Madam, said she, and has the Earl of Warwick Treated you thus unworthily? 'Twas then up∣on that account only, he sent his Gentleman hi∣ther to get one of your Letters into his Hands, to boast of your Favours; I protest to you, I will not as much as mention him any more, un∣less it be to conjure you, to continue and en∣crease your Hatred to him. There is no need for thy intermedling any further in the Matter, said the Countess, thy Business is not so much as to remember his Name in my Presence; Leave the rest to my Care, and I will acquit my self in such a manner, that no blame shall be laid at my Door.

If it were possible, reply'd Albine, after having paused a while, to doubt of what one sees with

ones own Eyes, I must confess to you Madam, I should scarce so absolutely Condemn the Earl of Warwick without being heard. None but such mean and self-interessed Souls as thine, said the Countess, can be Guilty of thus imposing upon themselves: As to my self, who give Thanks to God, have nothing in me that Resembles thee, have fix'd my Resolutions to Hate him for e∣ver, and not to see him again whilst I live. You will meet with no small difficulties, to keep either of these Resolutions, reply'd Albine; 'Tis not an easie Matter to hate what one loves. I love him, cry'd the Countess with some impati∣ence; 'Tis true, I have admitted of his impor∣tunities, and this is the only thing I have to accuse my self of, and to reproach you. How unfortunate are Persons of my Age, continued she, if they happen to have Women of so much Complaisance as yours? Hadst thou given me a foresight of the Precipice I was going to, I had stop'd in time to avoid the Danger, and had not had any occasion now of finding my self betray'd: But instead of giving me whole∣some Advice, thou madest it thy Business to make me sensible of the Merits and Passion of my Enemy.

These various Reflections caused in her a Thou∣sand Melancholly Thoughts, which afflicted her to such a degree, that not being in a conditi∣on to appear in any strange Conpany, she went to Bed, and Albine told the Family, that having a most violent Head-ach, she requir'd some Rest. Her Husband, who did not question but that it was an effect of her dissatisfaction, was not ve∣ry forward to see her, being highly exasperated against her; and had it not bin for the Chevalier de Hereford, it would have come to a Rupture be∣twixt them.

The Earl of Pembrook, who bore a share in every thing that related to the Countess, soon got Notice of her being ill of a Consumptive Fe∣ver, attended with such Symptoms of Melanchol∣ly as seem'd to be past all hopes of a Cure, and not doubting but that it was that Change of the Earl of Warwick, that was the real Cause of it: What an odd Story is here! cry'd he, She Writes to him a Rigorous Letter, that she will not as much as hear any body Name him; His good Fortune is such, as to take the right Course, and to Cure his Passion; She no sooner knows it, but is ready to run distracted. But perhaps, continued he, this sudden Fire which Burns now with such violence in her Heart for the Earl of Warwick, may be much abated, if she meets with a Lover who's Passion is limited within the Bounds of Vertue, such as she has always profess'd; and 'tis possible, that the Earl being too forward, forced that rigorous answer from her: As for my Part, I fear nothing of that kind; for as I love without hopes, so I shall be well pleased, provided she will not be displeased with me.

There being a great Intimacy betwixt him and the Earl of Devonshire, he took often the free∣dom of paying him a Visit at Twittenham; which being a Village but a few Miles from London, He ask'd leave of the King to go thither for some small time. You will then see the Countess of Devonshire, said the King to him; I would have her come to Court again, because I find her Beauty is much out of Order; I know her Eyes are grown very hollow, her Complexion and Lips Pale, and that she is so Lean, as scarce to be known to be the same Person: Thus I see my self sufficiently Reveng'd upon her, and to compleat it, pray tell her, that I intend pri∣vately

to Marry Madam Grey; that I heap Fa∣vours upon Favours upon her; that I love her most Tenderly; and that if she had used me well, she might Triumph'd at Court at Pleasure, whereas, now her Husband keeps her shut up in the Country.

Your Majesty charges me with a Commission, said the Earl, which would easily break off my small Journey; For how is it possible for me to put such hardships upon her? If you are re∣solved to go thither, added the King, it must be to serve me as an Interview to her. The Earl told him, He would do it in the most Gen∣tle way he could, and so leaving the King's Apartment, met with the Earl of Warwick as he was passing through the Guard-Chamber: Having a mind to sound his Inclinations con∣cerning his former Passion for the Countess, I am a going, said he with a low Voice, to lye at the Lady Anglesey's this Night, Have you any Commission to entrust me with? The Earl being somewhat Surprized, did not answer immediate∣ly; but soon after told him, he was a going to see a Fair, Little-Lyrness, and that he envy'd not his Fortune. You are angry, my Lord, re∣ply'd the Earl of Pembrook, and I find there is more of Passion than of Indifferency, in that you say of the Countess of Devonshire. You know but little, return'd the Earl coldly, if this is your real Sentiment: Don't you know, that I am all of a Piece, and know not what Dissembling is? The Earl of Pembrook, having a mind to pry further into his Inclinations, told him, You think your self Cured, when you are still very Sick. I am not such a Novice, reply'd he, not to know my own Condition; I read over her obliging Farewell every day, and it is there I meet with what is sufficient to support my Rea∣son,

and to augment my Scorn. Then you still stand in need of a Counterpoison, cry'd the Earl of Pembrook, you are not quite clear, say what you will. This is to insult over me, return'd the Earl with a serious look; Sure you take me for a mean Spirited Fellow: I assure you, I don't so much as think any more of her. I knew she was Ill, and I heard it not without some Satis∣faction, which sufficiently convinces me, that Thanks to Heaven, she has no farther Power o∣ver me: It were happy for me, added he, could I be Cured now as well of my Hatred, as I have bin of Love; I should then have but lit∣tle occasion to dispute with the King, as I now do about Madam Grey; and tho' he Adores her, I don't question but to be Reveng'd of her, first or last, according as a favourable opportunity of∣fers. How, said the Earl of Pembrook, and do you still keep in remembrance, what she did a∣gainst you? I shall never forgive her, said the Earl, till she has well suffer'd for it; and till then, I will give my self the Satisfaction of be∣ing the most Cruel of all her Enemies.

By this time, several Persons coming in to in∣terrupt their Discourse, the Earls of Warwick and Pembrook parted, the last being extreamly well Satisfy'd at what he had heard his Rival say; But scarce was got down the Stairs when hear∣ing himself call'd by some body, found it was the Earl of Warwick; I Conjure you, said he to him, not to miss of this Opportunity of telling her, how far I am bewitch'd to my new Mistress; for I would have Madam Devonshire know, that her Fetters are not everlasting; that I had Power enough to change them, nay, that I am almost inconsolable, to have ever worn them. That is enough for me, said my Lord Pembrook, to tell her, what will please her much. And why

please her, said the Earl of Warwick? That is the least of my intention. I am Satisfy'd, said the Earl of Pembrook, with a Malicious Smile, She will be overjoy'd to hear you think of her no more. The Earl of Warwick, not being a∣ble to contain himself, told him with a deep Sigh, Alas! my Lord, how happy are you, not to be in Love with this Cruel Woman; I wou'd I never knew her, or at least never lov'd her, at the Price of half my Life: But Farewell, I must leave you, the Recital of my weakness would prove to my Confusion.

Having said these Words, he went up to the King, whilst the Earl of Pembrook remain'd im∣moveable, leaning against the Wall, quite con∣founded at the last Words of the Earl of Warwick, not questioning, but that he had flattered him∣self in vain: 'Tis certain, said he to himself, he is still affected with the same Passion, and 'tis nothing but self-love, that makes him despise her who despises him; For, how is it possible, that so Ardent a Passion should be quite extinguish'd at once? Perhaps, when the Countess Writ what she did, it was not without the greatest violence to her self; how can I tell, whither not some indispensi∣ble Reasons obliged her to it? O God! What Torments do I endure! What Obstacles am I like∣ly to encounter! What difficulties am I not to Surmount! Whether am I a going? My Fetters being already so weighty, if I see the Countess and declare my Passion to her, and she should be offend∣ed thereat, should I not then be much more unfor∣tunate than I am now?

A Thousand objections came into his Head a∣gainst the intended Journey to Twittenham; but at last, let my Treatment be what it will, I shall have at least the Satisfaction of having declared my Passion to her; so, that if I suffer, she'll know 'tis for

her I suffer, and of all the Misfortunes, this is greatest, to Love and to Conceal it. Whilst he was taking this Resolution, he espy'd my Lord Stanley, and ask'd him, whether they should not go together to Twittenham? He embraced the of∣fer, and they were received with singular kind∣ness by the Earl of Devonshire, who was very glad of good Company, to divert his Spleen, which most afflicted him when he was alone.

The Earl of Pembrook, did not see the Coun∣tess that Night, because she did not stir out of her Chamber; and if without being Guilty of ill Manners she could have refused the Visits of those that came to her Father's House, she would have bin extreamly glad of it. The Earl of Pembrook ask'd how she did, and told my Lord Stanley, to perswade her not to use so much Reservedness to him as she did to o∣thers; Put her in mind, said he smiling, that it was upon her Command, I left you in the quiet possession of the Fair Lelia, and don't you think it not reasonable she should shew some particu∣lar Regard to me? My Lord said she ought, and promis'd to introduce him to his Sister's Apartment the next Morning so soon as she should be awake.

To perform his Promise, he went to a little Wood, where the Earl had bin passing his time ever since day-break, near a Cool Spring, where the Countess used often to divert her self; He saw Aurora dissipating by degrees the darkness of the Night, whilst the Sweet Singing Birds seem'd to revive Nature it self, during the Cold∣ness of the Morning, when the Sun Beams being as yet feeble, rather delighted than offended the Eyes. The Earl address'd himself to the Stars, and told them his Pain and Perplexity; He would have thought his Condition sufficiently happy to find himself in the same place, where

his admir'd Countess had her Habitation, had she bin more sensible for him, or less for another; but this Reflection was like to kill him upon the spot, had it not bin that he remembred those few cruel Words she writ to the Earl of Warwick; This being the only Foundation whereon he built the hopes of his Success, in the intended Declaration of his Love.

My Lord Stanley finding him among a Set, or kind of Arbour of Trees, near a Cascade, in a very pensive Posture, told him, I am sorry, my Lord, if I disturb your Thoughts; because I am sensible, your Mind is taken up with something that touches you very near. The Earl of Pembrook sigh'd, and without answer∣ing his Question, only told him with a forc'd Smile, That Indifferency was the happiest thing in the World. I easily guess at your meaning, return'd my Lord Stanley; you are in Love, and have reason of Complaint. The Earl fearing he might dive too far into his Sentiments, thought fit to divert him, by making him his pretended Confident, and relating to him an old Adventure of his, as if it were one of a very late Date.

I must own to you, said he, That to forget the ingrateful Lelia, I resolv'd to enter into an Amorous Engagement, in good earnest, with a Lady who might really deserve it; 'Twas not long before I got acquainted with a Widow, a most Charming Creature; who, tho' she was pass'd the first Flower of her Youth, yet still retain'd a thousand Beauties, whose Lustre was encreas'd by her lively Wit and most enga∣ging Conversation: She gave me great De∣monstrations of her Esteem, tho' she pretended to a most severe Virtue; but in hopes that time would produce more favourable Sentiments

in her, I Courted her with all the Ardour and Application that could be: But one Day hap∣pening to come to her House, when she did not expect me, I enter'd the Door, and in a great Lookinglass that hung in her Bed-chamber and faced the Entry, I espy'd a certain young Pedaut, who being lately come out of some University-Colledge, she had made a Tutor to her Son; if you had but seen his lank greesy Hair, you must have own'd he would make but a very lothsome Bed-fellow for so Nice a Lady; be∣sides that, his Face was so ugly, as was enough to frighten me: So away I went immediately, but did not forget to write her every thing that Anger could inspire me with, and to give her to understand the reason of it, and my constant Aversion to such pretended Virtuous Ladies. She touch'd to the quick, and think∣ing it less Disadvantagious to make me her Con∣fident, than to let me have a sinister Opinion of her Virtue, sent to me one of her Relations, being the only Person that was Privy to her Marriage with this Fellow, who gave me a full Account of it. I protest to you, that I was more surpriz'd at this than at the first; but you may believe I made the best use of it, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was to Cure my self of my Passion, it being contrary to my Inclinations, to love what I can't esteem: However, I am forced to offer constant Violences to my Heart, and have taken a positive Reso∣lution, to avoid all Lady's as the Bane of our Tranquillity; and whenever I feel but the least Inclination for any one, I am sure I will never see her again whilst I live.

You threaten the Fair Sex very hard, and I believe more than you are able to perform, re∣ply'd my Lord Stanley. I think we may both defie them, said the Earl abruptly. My Sister

will give you a favourable Reception, reply'd my Lord, if she be but acquainted with your Re∣solution. How! return'd the Earl, Would she not have one Love that which is lovely? No, added my Lord, she is such an Enemy of all man∣ner of Gallantry, that nothing can be more ter∣rible than she to a Lover: Come then, let us go to see her, and do you make her sensible of your rare Resolution. Had my Lord bin sensible what Affections these Words caus'd in his Friend, he would have acted with more Caution, and he might soon have discover'd the Symptoms thereof in his very Eyes, had he but look'd at him; but little guessing at his Intentions, he thought no further on the matter.

Whilst the Earl of Pembrook was going to∣wards the Countess's Apartment, he was op∣press'd with such a Confusion of Thoughts as is scarce to be express'd: Are not my Chains already weighty enough, said he to himself? Must I go to see her, to augment my Passion? And can I flatter my self that the Earl of Warwick is ab∣solutely indifferent to her? 'Tis true, she has writ to him in harsh Terms; but alass! this may be the effect of Anger, Jealousy, or some Error committed by him; these things are soon pass'd by, when a Person truly loves; so that the Re∣solution I have taken of disclosing to her my Passion, may prove perhaps the most fatal Acti∣on of my Life. He was a thousand times upon the point of changing his dangerous Resolution; but the Pleasure he propos'd to himself, got the better over all the Considerations of Danger; and thus as he was entring the Countess's Bed-Chamber, he had much a-do to forbear running straightways to the Fair Lady's Bed-side, where she appear'd in a negligent Dress, attired with no∣thing but her own Charms, with somewhat a

Pale Countenance, enough to discover her Grief; but in the midst of her Languishment, there ap∣pear'd still such a Lustre in her Eyes, as prov'd dangerous in effect, to all that beheld them.

The Earl of Pembrook is come to tell you some∣thing that will charm you, said my Lord Stanley, as he was entring her Chamber; He hates Love, and flies all Opportunities relating to it; he is got away from Court to seek for shelter here. I am afraid I have not chosen my Ground very well to Fight in, reply'd the Earl, interrupting him; But, Madam, my Lord talks at random, he ought to tell you the Reasons that engag'd me into these Resolutions, which I intend to justify to you alone. Keep to your Resoluti∣on, reply'd the Countess, to love no more, don't alter your Design; and if my Brother would follow my Advice, I would have him do so too. I don't desire to Engage you, whilst you have such a Second, said my Lord Stanley to his Sister: Adieu, I am a going a Hunting, and if I meet with some Solitary Place, it may be I may bestow the Day there upon my Thoughts: So he went out of the Room, leaving the Earl at full Liberty to entertain the Countess. 'Tis certain 'twas the only thing in the World the Earl was desirous of, yet found himself at a stand; for tho' he knew very well what he in∣tended to say, he knew not whether she would mind it; so their Conversation was at first upon indifferent matters.

By your Absence, Madam, said he, the Court is robb'd of its chiefest Ornament; every thing looks very Melancholly there, since you have left it. I used to appear there so seldom, re∣ply'd she, that I can scarce be miss'd. 'Tis far, Madam, from what you guess at, said he; the

King often speaks of you, and the Earl of Warwick cannot forget you. What is it you tell me, my Lord, said she with a Blush? The King saw me by chance, at a Seat near Windsor, where he was receiv'd with that Respect as was due to his Person, and has never look'd after me since. The Earl came along with General Talbot, to pay a Visit to my Lord Devonshire, and I never saw him above twice or thrice in my Life. I can't but conclude from what you say, added the Earl, that you have quite raz'd him out of your Me∣mory, and rejoice at it, as at a Piece of good News.

At these Words, the Countess not question∣ing, but that the same Letter which was restor'd to her by the Chevalier de Hereford, was also faln into the Hands of the Earl of Pembrook, she was so afflicted thereat, as to break forth into Tears. Oh! cry'd the Earl, kneeling before her Bed-side, What is it I see! you are in Tears my Divine Countess, you Weep: This Happy Mortal has cost you many a Sigh. Don't misconstrue my just Indignation by false Appearances, said she to him; and believe me, that I hate the Earl of Warwick, as he deserves. You hate him, Ma∣dam? Yes, I hate him, said she, the very Re∣membrance of him is insupportable to me. He is still happier than I, reply'd the Earl sighing, you don't hate him, till after having honour'd him with your particular Esteem, whilst you look upon me with so indifferent an Eye, as if I was not worth your Hatred: But, Madam, continu'd he, since he has bin so bold as to Love you, and you have known it without being offended at it; May not I be permitted to say that I feel for you all that Admiration, the most passionate Respect, and a most sincere Passion, are able to inspire a Man with? I don't propose to raise my

Fortune upon the Ruins of his; or to deserve any thing at your Hands, at the Price of his De∣struction; tho' he be a very dangerous Rival, I have within me a certain Generosity, that does not in the least agree with such Actions: But give me leave to declare to you my real Sentiments, they being such as will not wound your Virtue; and the Flame of that great Light which affords us the satisfaction of the Day, is not compos'd of a purer Matter than that which burns in my Heart. My Lord, said the Countess, inter∣rupting him, you have taken too much the Ad∣vantage of the Confusion and Trouble you saw me in; you have told me what highly dis∣pleases me, and what convinces me more and more in my Opinion, that there is not a more unfortunate Person upon Earth than my self: Were the Earl of Warwick of a more honour∣able Temper, than he is, he would not have forgotten to tell you when he spoke of our Conversation, that I never gave him any oc∣casion of bragging of his good Fortune, and that I omitted nothing to deliver my self from his Persecutions: But that fatal Star, which bestow'd upon me something of Beauty, did it doubtless to my Destruction; it would be more happy for me to be hated by all the World, than to be belov'd after the same manner I am now: But be it as it will, my Lord, I have too high an Esteem for you to quarrel with you; I will forget every thing you told me, provided you promise not to see me any more. What an odd sort of Pardon is this, Madam, reply'd he abrupt∣ly; What to promise, to avoid seeing you? No, no, I am not any more thus far Master of my own Actions, as to engage my Word for a thing of such a nature: Alas! what is it I have not en∣dur'd since I saw you in the Wood near Chel∣sea,

in the utmost Lustre of your Beauty! You may talk what you please, answer'd the Countess, were I not in Bed, I would leave you; but my Mind is taken up with such variety of things, that it is an easie matter for me not to hear you.

This Indifferency, or rather Slight, more near∣ly affected the Earl, than if she had broken out into violent Expressions; Oh! Madam, cry'd he, I am too sensible that you pursue your own Re∣solutions; you can't persuade me, that you hate Love; but you may convince me with ease, that you hate me: 'Tis time to dye, continu'd he, I must dye, and so bowing his Head to the Ground, remain'd immoveable, like a Man with∣out his Senses. The Countess fearing he might be surpriz'd upon his Knees near her Bed-side, desir'd him to take his Seat; I am so unfor∣tunate, said she to him, that even the most inno∣cent things become criminal, if they have any relation to me; and I hope you will not augment my Pain, by adding new ones to it. The Earl took his Seat, but spoke not one Word more, so that this dumb Conversation beginning to prove tedious, he arose on a sudden, made a profound Reverence, and so left her Chamber, and immediately after, the House, finding him∣self not in a Condition, to carry on matters there without danger of being discover'd by some of the Family in his Intentions.

He came not to London till it was late, that he might the better keep conceal'd for some Days in his own House; which time he spent in endeavouring to calm the Tempest in his Mind: After that he came to Court, where he met with a favourable Reception from the King, who ask'd him, whether he had acquitted himself of the Commission he had charg'd him with? The

Earl told him, That he could find no Opportu∣nity of speaking to her alone, and that it seem'd as if she knew his Errand, by her being so cau∣tious in avoiding it. She was not much in the wrong of it, said the King smiling; but you can't but own, that she is much alter'd, and so I am reveng'd of her. The Earl of Pembrook, who had reason enough to wish that his Master might think of her no more, reply'd, She was scarce to be known, and that it seem'd almost not natural for so Handsome a Person to grow so Ugly. Her ex∣travagant Love for the Earl of Warwick, is the cause of it, said the King; But do you imagine that she still loves him? Sir, reply'd he, I had sight of her but one Moment; she seem'd to be full of Grief, but spoke not a Word of the Earl of Warwick. He will not be concern'd at it, added the King, he loves her no more; his predominant Passion is, to plague Madam Grey, he hates her mortally, and would always persuade me, that she is Unfaithful, but I am too well acquainted with the cause of his Hatred to believe him; I would have you tell him, that I don't like it; that every thing he says upon that Head appears suspicious to me; and that if he will oblige me, he shall make his Court to her.

The Earl of Pembrook being very well inclin'd to execute the King's Command, went immediate∣ly to the Earl of Warwick, who receiv'd him with all the Marks of a tender Friendship: What News do you bring me, said the Earl, from Madam De∣vonshire, Is she still in the same Humour against me? She is in so languishing a Condition, reply'd the Earl of Pembrook, that I believe she has not strength enough left to love or hate any thing; and I never saw her but in Company, where there was no Opportunity of talking of you. I am overjoy'd you have no News to tell me from her,

continu'd the Earl of Warwick, which might have stopt my Progress in what I have advanc'd within these few Days; 'tis true, my Lord, I have almost quite forgot her. I congratulate you, answer'd the Earl of Pembrook coldly; but can scarce believe you. I have since made many serious Reflections upon every particular relating to that Affair, added the Earl of Warwick, and find nothing but matter of Trouble and Vexation in it: You know what I have told you before, upon that Head; I never enjoy'd one Day with Content; I was forc'd to hazard every thing, to get sight of her but for one Moment, and that even against her Consent; I was surrounded by the King and the General on one side, and by her Husband and Madam Grey on the other; Judge what a sort of Entertainment this was, for one not ac∣quainted with Disappointments: However, I lov'd her too well, to be check'd by these Difficulties, none but her self could have alter'd my Resolu∣tion; you know how she managed the matter, and what a most gracious Farewel she bestow'd upon me, whilst I suffer'd such a harsh Banishment upon her account: All these Reasons have had such an Influence upon me, that I begin to relish the Sweets of a real Indifferency; add to this my Engagement with a lovely Person, who treats me as well as the Countess did ill, you can't but agree with me, That I could not do better, than to take a fix'd Resolution of consulting my own Repose.

The Earl of Pembrook hearken'd to his Words with a great deal of Pleasure; Oh! said he to him∣self, and why should the Fair Countess not be acquainted with the Earl of Warwick's Indiffe∣rency for her? 'Tis possible a Noble and Generous Anger may plead in my behalf. Then remem∣bering the King's Command, Believe me, said he,

my Lord, you should give a Visit to Madam Grey, and if you can't prevail so far upon your self, as to forgive her in good earnest, do it at least in outward appearance; 'tis no small Trouble to the King, to see his Favourite and his Mistress always at open War; and you talk of her to him, in so disobliging a manner, that, instead of making your Court, you displease him. I am sensible of it as much as your self, reply'd the Earl, and know my self in the wrong, to take so much pains to Cure him of a Passion, which will carry him too far for his Glory: I am also willing to own to you, that I should scarce be so Zealous in the matter, were it not to revenge my self for what she has done to me; so tht, as the Case stands, I can do no other∣wise, than to be her declar'd Enemy. After your return from Caerleon, reply'd the Earl of Pembrook, you gave your Word to the King, That you would live in a good Correspondence with her. And so I would, said he, did she use me well: But is it not an odd thing, that he is dissatisfy'd with me, because I am sensible of her immensurable ambitious Designs? You are prevented by Passion, reply'd the Earl of Pembrook; 'Tis hard to imagine, that her Designs reach so high, she being the Widow only of a private Gentleman. No mat∣ter for that, said the Earl of Warwick, she to well knows her own strength: So they parted. The Earl of Pembrook being highly rejoic'd at what he had heard the Earl of Warwick con∣fess during this Conversation; so that think∣ing himself freed of a Dangerous Rival, he made his Court to the King; but did not neglect to infuse into the King such Sentiments concern∣ing Madam Grey, as might make him be upon his Guard.

Whilst every thing was in Tranquillity at Court, fresh matter of Vexation arose at Twittenham; The Chevalier de Hereford, we have had occasion to mention before, being of the same Family with the Earl of Devonshire, a mutual Confidence and Friendship had bin contracted betwixt them: But to render this durable, the Chevalier must either never have seen the Countess of Devonshire, or prov'd less sensible of her Charms. He look'd upon the first beginning of his Passion, only as an Effect of Compassion for her; knowing that a Woman of so haughty a Temper as she, must needs resent highly, the unjust Jealousies of a Husband. When he saw the Letter she writ to the Earl of Warwick, this augmented his Esteem, seeing she intended to check his Passion, and that if she had a particular Value for him before others, her Heart nevertheless had kept it self within the strictest Rules of her Duty. These confus'd Thoughts by degrees being met in good Order, he look'd upon the Countess as the most Beautiful Person in the World, who being shut up in the Country, might by little and little be accustom'd to hearken to his Passion.

'Twas this that made him so anxious in taking that occasion of setting her at Variance with the Earl of Warwick; for a Secret Lover has gain'd a good Step, if he can remove the Person belov'd by his Mistress. Every thing succeeded accord∣ing to his desire; my Lady Devonshire mis∣led by the Honourable deportment of the Che∣valier, conceiv'd a Hatred against the Earl of Warwick; she detested his Perfidiousness, as on the other Hand she thought her self oblig'd to the Chevalier, for having restor'd her Letter to her: This Obligation join'd to the Confidence her Lord put in him, induc'd her to see him frequently, and even to talk to him with an absolute sincerity.

Several Months pass'd thus, the Chevalier being not as yet fully acquainted with his own Senti∣ments. I told you before, he thought it was only Esteem and Compassion that engag'd him in her Interest, to inveigh against the Earl of Warwick, and make her raze him out of her Remembrance: But Love is an Evil that will not lye conceal'd, he began to be sensible that he was catch'd in the Snare himself, he did all he could to Cure his Passion, but it prov'd too late. On the other Hand, the Countess shewing him a Thousand inno∣cent Marks of her Friendship, to acquire his, each of these prov'd a Snare, wherein the Chevalier saw himself entangled past all Hopes of get∣ting out: For upon his return London, where he intended to stay for some time, every thing prov'd as irksome to him, as if he had bin in a strange Country; his only satis∣faction in the World now being, to see the Countess.

All this while, he loaded himself with a Thou∣sand Reproaches, to abuse thus the Friendship of the Earl of Devonshire, his Dear Kinsman, who had open'd his very Bosom to him; No, would he cry sometimes, I will see her no more, I will choose a voluntary Banishment from that House, where my Reception is such as to disturb all my Repose. He staid for some time at London, and thought to divert himself with appearing con∣stantly at Court, but all this was unpleasing to him; he was forced, in spite of himself, to return to my Lord Devonshire's. Whilst he was thus struggling with the most violent Passions, that ever a Man did, he fell most dangerously ill at Twittenham; the Countess being just then upon her Recovery, and of a very grateful Temper, being sensible also, that to take Care of the Chevalier,

was in effect to oblige her Husband, would sit whole Days together by his Bed-side; which piece of Goodness was so far from accelerating his Cure, that as often as she came into the Chamber his Fever encreas'd: At last, his Condition became so dangerous, that the Physitians advis'd him to be carry'd to London.

The Countess of Devonshire being the first who told him of the Physitians Advice, she perceiv'd him to be highly concern'd thereat; What is it makes your Countenance change thus, says she? Madam, reply'd he, I am very ready to obey you, and to disclose to you the cause which has reduc'd me to this Condition you see me in; 'Tis the Pain I feel of being remov'd out of your Sight, without any Hopes of ever returning hither again. Don't tell me a thing that must needs afflict me, reply'd she, your Health is not in so desperate a State; we shall see one another again, Chevalier, and I shall be overjoy'd at it. I should dye too Happy, said he, durst I flatter my self with this Hope; but you will soon Hate me, Madam, when I have declar'd to you, That I Love you: Yes, added he, I Love you to such a degree, that the Violence I have offer'd to my self, not to dis∣close it, is that which has reduc'd me to that State you see me in: If you have any Rem∣nants of Compassion to plead in my behalf, conceal from me your Resentment, or rather don't conceive a Hatred, Divine Countess, a∣gainst one whose Death will be a suffering Revenge to you.

He said no more, after having utter'd these few Words, his Eyes seeming as if he look'd for Mercy in Madam Devonshire's Face; and she actual∣ly look'd upon him with more Compassion than Anger: I have some Obligations to you, Cheva∣lier,

said she, I can't forget, in spite of the Displea∣sure you give me at this time; but he assur'd, I never receiv'd any that affected me more: Alas! I consider'd you as a faithful Friend, in whose Con∣versation I might find some Relief against those Vexations which have so sensibly afflicted me for some time past, and now I must lose you: Oh! that unfortune Beauty, which to another would prove an Object of Satisfaction, is to me a constant Source of Pain, which are renew'd every Day to me. The abundance of Tears that fell from her Fair Eyes, intermix'd with Sobs and Sighs, would not give her leave to say more: But the Chevalier, taking the Word, What is it I see, cry'd he! Ma∣dam you Cry! and I am in some measure the occa∣sion of it; Will my Death be a sufficient Expia∣tion of my Crime? I don't wish for your Death, reply'd she, but for your Cure; and so perfect a Cure, that you may never speak to me again in the same manner as you did just now. I have not power enough to make you such a Promise, said he, it will be much easier for me, to avoid the Sight of you, than to stifle a Passion, I shall be forc'd to cherish in spite of all your Rigour; Why was not I made the Earl of Warwick? Is it possi∣ble, said the Countess, not without some Symptoms of Indignation, that, if you have those Sentiments for me, you just now discover'd? Is it possible, I say, you should envy the Fortune of him, who is the most Cruel Enemy I have in the World? Alas! Madam, said he to her, you deceive your self, if you believe you hate my Lord Warwick; that Se∣cret Concern I had in diving into your real Senti∣ments, has often made me speak of him without any Diffidence or Dissimulation; I have bin too sensible, that he is still very dear to you, and it has often brought me to the Brink of Despair:

but, Madam, the Esteem I bore you, made me keep Silence; I durst not make you sensible of your own Sentiments; my fear of discomposing or displeasing you was such an untrespassable Law to me, as to fain that I did not perceive the ascendant he got over your Heart; and tho' I was very assiduous in removing those Jealousies, which so much afflicted the Earl of Devonshire, I talk'd to him against my own Knowledge; but I spoke to him, Madam, for your Repose, being ready at the same time to sacrifice all mine to yours.

Tho' you are very much mistaken in your Guess, said the Countess, interrupting him, I think my self nevertheless oblig'd to your Conduct, both in re∣spect of my Husband and my self; but I can assure you, were you less prejudic'd than you are, or better acquainted with my present Inclinations, you would not accuse me, as you do, of so much Weakness, to return any favourable Sentiments for the most dishonourable Person in the World; Nay, I would sooner have pardon'd him, for having contriv'd my Death, than for having endeavour'd to stain my Reputation in the World: Then you don't love him, reply'd the Chevalier sighing? I hate him pass'd all recovery, said she. If it be so, continu'd he, May I hope for nothing from your Compassion? You may be assur'd, answer'd she, that I will forget every thing you told me to Day, provided you give me no reason of Complaint for the future. I rather will choose a voluntary Exile, said he, I am not in a Condition to keep my Word upon that point, as you require: I must then, Madam, forbear seeing you, and the Earl of Devonshire will perhaps not be in a better Humour; for I have often calm'd his Rage, and no other but my self would have known how to

merit something from you upon that score. But, said she, interrupting him, Is it possible you should bare so little respect to him, as to talk to me at the rate you do? I protest to you, I can scarce believe it; and that of all Mankind, who are sub∣ject to such Frailties, you were the last one I sus∣pected in that kind. I can't justify my Conduct, said he; if it is a Crime, Madam, I suppose I shall soon expiate it by the Loss of a Life, that has bin for a long time odious to me. He had scarce ut∣ter'd these last Words, when falling into a Swoon, all his Senses left him, and the Countess divided betwixt Compassion and Resentment, call'd for Help; but at the same time left the Room, and retir'd to her own Chamber, where she found Al∣bine, who then had not as yet forfeited all her Credit with her.

Alas! Albine, said she to her, full of Trouble, what a strange Scene has bin acted here! my Misfortunes, instead of diminishing, encrease every Moment: The Chevalier de Hereford has made to me such a Declaration, as puts me quite beyond my self; him I look'd upon as my best Friend, but he proves as indiscreet as the Earl of Pembrook; besides, I am under a great Dilemma how to deal with him; for if I use him roughly, he will perhaps be re∣vengeful, and you know my Lord hearkens to, and believes every thing he says; if I shew him some Complaisance, What Construction will he make of my Indulgence? and what is it I must not fear hereafter? This will render my Condition but worse; and after all, Am I Mistress of my own Heart? Of that Heart, I say, so often revolts against all the Dictates of my Reason? Which is so very frail, as to make me to this Day, discover some Merit in my most Mortal Enemy: Yes, Al∣bine, 'Tis not is my power to hate the Earl of Warwick; How Happy am I in not seeing

him! How much am I in Love with this Solitude! 'Tis true, I suffer here, but no mat∣ter, as long as I preserve here my Inno∣cency.

Hitherto Albine durst not speak in behalf of the Earl of Warwick, for her Mistress seeming so high∣ly exasperated against him, she did not believe he had retain'd so good a Place in her Heart, as she found he did, so she would not neglect this Oppor∣tunity; Perhaps, said she, Madam, the Earl is not so guilty, as he has bin represented to you; Re∣member now, it was the Chevalier de Hereford, who render'd him thus Criminal in your Eyes; and is it not very probable, that at that very time he might have his Secret Designs of ruining him in your Opinion? No, no, cry'd the Countess, I re∣main unalterable in respect to the Earl of Warwick; his Behaviour has bin such, that I must be Blinder than any Woman in the World, to be de∣ceiv'd in it; Neither do I deceive my self, continu'd she; I only deplore the Excess of my Misfortunes, that I should meet with so many Enemies, amongst those very Persons who owe me the most Respect. She then kept Silence in a pensive Posture, without giving the least At∣tention or Answer to what Albine further told her.

Immediately after, the Earl of Devonshire com∣ing into the Chamber, and seeing the dangerous State of his Kinsman, was much afflicted thereat, and being the only Person whom he had made the Confident of his Jealousy, he resolv'd to go along with him to London, and to stay there till his full Recovery. He told the Countess that he in∣tended to go to London, because he should not enjoy himself in the Country, if he should let him go alone; and that, if his Distemper should prove of any long Continuance, he desir'd Madam Anglesey

and her, to come to Town likewise: She answer'd coldly, that he might have dispens'd himself from going, by committing him to the Care of some trusty Person; But that he was his own Master, and that her Credit was so inconsiderable with him, that she durst not attempt to engage him to stay at Twittenham. He gave her a surly Look, and without speaking one Word, went out of the Room. Soon after, hearing a Noise in the Court, she found it was the Chevalier de Hereford and the Earl of Devonshire, both upon their Departure for London, the first in a Horse-Litter, and the other in his Coach. They were no sooner arriv'd there, but the Earls of Warwick and Pembrook being the first that got Notice thereof, this serv'd to revive their Passions: For the Earl of Warwick could not flatter himself to speak to the Countess, as long as her Husband Argus-like watch'd her him∣self; and the Earl of Pembrook imagin'd, that be∣ing now at Liberty, she would enjoy the Advan∣tage thereof, and afford him a more favourable Reception.

He was so far from making the least Mistery of his intended Journey to Twittenham, that he visited the Earl of Devonshire upon that account, who gave him some Letters to his Lady; However, he conceal'd it from the Earl of Warwick, whom he still look'd upon as his Rival; notwithstanding the Hatred he bore to Madam Grey, and the Pains he took to encompass her Ruin, seem'd to divert his Passion a contrary way. As she was not igno∣rant of all the Steps he took for that end, and on her side repay'd him in the same Coin; the King was constantly troubled with the Complaints of his Favourite against his Mistress, and with hers against him. He was engag'd in the same Interest with Mrs. Elizabeth Lucy, a Lady of Quality, and

of extraordinary Beauty: The King, whilst he was yet Earl of Marche, enter'd into an Amorous Intrigue with her, which was not interrupted by the Lustre of his Crown; but the Charms both of Mind and Body, join'd in the Person of Madam Grey, did not a little dazzle and prevail over those of the young Mrs. Lucy. She resented the matter like an injur'd Mistress, and would fre∣quently engage the Earl of Warwick, to give the King an account of the sinister Conduct of Madam Grey: But this coming from a suspected Hand, whom he knew to be her Enemy, the King would say, This lovely Widow is faithful to me; Why would you have me check my Passion for her? And who can you think of, should be the Person, she would prefer before me? If Love and Reason did always go Hand in Hand, reply'd the Earl, your Majesty might rest assur'd, that Madam Grey was sensible of her Good Fortune, and that what I say against her, was not consonant to Truth; but, Sir, Love is Blind; put her to the Trial, and to such a one as may put it beyond all Doubt, that you are in full Possession of her Heart, or at least, that may justify her Conduct. The King tir'd out with these repeated Accusations, told him one Day, That he ow'd him no Obligation for the Trouble he gave himself. I desire no Reward from your Majesty, reply'd he, with a great deal of Frankness; but I shall at least have the satisfaction of having done my Duty. Oh! said the King, your Zeal is very troublesome, you may shew it upon other Occasions, and not disturb me any further in Mat∣ters relating to my Mistress. But all this did not check the Earl of Warwick's Resolution, he often told the King many things of her, which prov'd most generally false, but at the same time furnish'd no small matter of Vexation to the Fair Widow;

and what most of all afflicted her, was, that he was ready upon all Occasions, to extol the Merits of Mrs. Elizabeth Lucy, who she fear'd might one time or other alienate the King's Inclinations from her; so that she was at open Enmity with the Earl.

Thus matters went at Court, when the Earl of Devonshire and the Chevalier de Hereford came to London: The Earl of Warwick, who still retain'd in his mind the Charms of the Countess of Devon∣shire, and who most passionately desired to speak with her, to reproach her Rigour, and to recover his Credit with her, if it were not entirely lost, would certainly have given her a visit at Twitten∣ham, had it not bin, that he look'd upon the de∣struction of Madam Grey, as the most essential point on which depended both his Repose and Grandure: He had already made such steps to∣wards her removal from the King's Favour, as would have proved infallible with any other Person except the King, quite prepossessed with an high Opinion of her; but being dayly in hopes of finding out something that might tend to the disadvantage of his Enemy, he delay'd his Journey to Twittenham for some time.

The Earl of Pembrook had also not laid aside his design, being desirous to dive into those of the Earl of Warwick, entred into discourse with him concerning my Lady Devonshire; and the Earl not in the least imagining that he talk'd to his Rival, told him, without the least reserve, that, were it not for some business of the greatest Consequence, he had at Court, he would endeavour to see the fair Countess in Disguise. Pembrook overjoy'd to find the Earl employ'd otherwise, resolved not to lose a moment, to accomplish the design he had

laid of carrying away the Countess to one of his Seats, where he intended to keep her secretly as long as possibly he could, with∣out hearkening to, or valuing the Danger, which his Reason laid before him: For he was in Love, and that is all as can be said in his Justi∣fication.

To encompass his end, he had caused a kind of a Barge to be built, finely Painted and Guilded, after the same manner as they were said to be used in the Indies, that so having nothing of the Euro∣pean Modal in it, the Ladies might be surprized with its Novelty, as well as with the Habit of him, who was the pretended Master thereof, who represented both in his Garb, Actions and Looks, an English Indian Merchant, lately come from those Parts. The Disguised Earl, was no sooner got up the River with his Barge as far as Twitten∣ham, but he sent his Interpreter to invite the Countesses of Anglesey and Devonshire a-board her, to take a view of what Rarities he had to dispose of. Accordingly they came a-board her the next Day, where their Eyes being glutted with great variety of Rich Indian Stuffs and other Rarities, the Merchant told the young Countess, That if She would come without her Mother the next day, he would shew and sell her the Richest Silks that ever she saw in her Life. And why would not you have my Mother come along with me, said she? Because, reply'd he, at my departure from the In∣dies, I made a Vow to our Gods, not to dispose of any of these richest Stuffs, but to young Persons. The Countess laugh'd at the Merchant's Fancy, and did not come again the next following day; so her Curiosity brought her thither the Day after, attended only by some few of her Wo∣men.

Whilst she was busie in viewing and picking out what she lik'd best, they had Hoisted Sail, and the Barge went forward a-pace, before she perceiv'd it; but dreaming of nothing, ask'd the Indian-Merchant, Whether they were a going. To the Indies, Madam, reply'd he: The Emperor my Ma∣ster sent me on purpose to carry you to him. The Countess laugh'd at it, taking it for a Jest; but perceiving they went on as fast as they could, she began to be frighten'd in good Earnest. Don't think to carry me any further, if you do, I will kill my self. The Earl of Pembrook seeing her so resolute, told her, Madam, don't fear; 'tis the Earl of Warwick who has sent me, he must either see you or dye; and he has order'd me to convey you to some delicious Place, where you will see him more Amorous and more Faithful than ever.

The Countess more enrag'd than before, told him, She would not see him while she liv'd; and that before they could bring her to the Place where the Earl of Warwick was, she would either Drown or Kill her self with her own Hands. The Excess of her Despair discover'd it self, both in her Countenance and Actions; 'tis true, she did not Cry, but casting most furious Looks to the Water, shew'd that she aim'd at the River. The Earl of Pembrook lay at her Feet, not daring to discover himself for fear of encreasing her Fury; but did all he could to appease it, telling her, He would carry her back to Twittenham, if she was posi∣tively bent upon it. She vouchsafed him not one Word, but on a sudden threw her self into the Thames. Good God! What a surprize was this to her Passionate Lover! He little thought she would have taken so fatal a Resolution, and now despising his own Life, leap'd in after her: Being a

good Swimmer he soon got hold of her Gown, as she was rising in the Water; but not withstanding this, they had both bin drown'd together, had not some of their Water-men come timely to their assistance.

The Women of her Attendence, seeing their Mistress without Sense or Motion, sent forth most doleful Cries to Heaven: And the Earl of Pem∣brook seeing, that since the Plot would not take under the Name of the Earl of Warwick, there was but little Hopes for him; resolv'd, without discovering himself, to set the Countess down where he had taken her up. Madam, said he to her, after she was come to her self again, you need not have thus hazarded your Life, by throwing your self into the River, to force me to turn back to Twittenham; our Intention was, to make you Happy, but since you're against it, there is no rea∣son we should incur your Hatred, when our Busi∣ness was to deserve your Good-will: Live, Ma∣dam, Live for a Jealous Husband; fly your truest Friend; 'tis your ill Star that Rules you, and you will have occasion enough to repent of it hereafter. Away, away, Impostor, said she, go and try your Skill upon some less Virtuous or more Credulous Person than my self; and thank Heavens, I am of the weaker Sex, or else I would make you feel the Effects of my just Resentment, for the Game you were going to play me. Whilst they were talking thus, they were got so near the Bank of the River, that by the help of a long Plank, the Countess and her Women could get conveniently out of the Barge; the Earl of Pembrook, having chang'd his Indian Habit for that of an European, did the same not long after on the opposite Side; and Night approaching, gave them an Opportunity of unloading the Cargo, and

having set Fire to the Vessel, they all got to London; without which they might have soon bin discover'd and taken by the Country Peo∣ple.

In effect the Countess of Devonshire her self, im∣mediately prepar'd her self against the ill Conse∣quences, which she foresaw would attend this At∣tempt: For some of the Inhabitants of Twitten∣ham, had seen her go into the Barge, which im∣mediately made the best of her Way down the River; others had seen her plunge her self into the River, and the Indian-Merchant after her; all which causing no small surprize, the News thereof was soon carry'd to the Earl of Anglesey. The old Countess uneasie, to know what was become of her Daughter, run to the River-side, where she found her Wet all over, just after she was scarce well got out of the Boat, and ask'd her very abruptly, What a fine Walk she had taken. The young Countess appear'd much discompos'd, which creating a Suspicion in her Mother, she told her without staying for her Answer, She had play'd some Trick of Youth, wherein Love had a greater Share than Reason. I protest to you, Madam, reply'd the Countess of Devonshire, you do me the greatest piece of Injustice in the World; you have taken a Prejudice against me, were it not so, you would believe what I am a going to relate to you concerning this Ad∣venture; but I am almost assured you will not give credit to what I say. You ought not to be Judge of my Thoughts, answer'd my Lady Anglesey, speak only, and I shall soon guess whether you are sincere or not. In the Condition I am now in, added she, it will not be proper to give the whole Recital thereof imme∣diately, but I will justify my self, when we

come to your Apartment. So they got into the Coach, the young Countess being in such a Confusion, as if she had bin actually Guilty; tho' every thing consider'd, especially her attempt∣ing to drown her self, there was but little cause of suspecting her to have had a Hand in the Plot.

She was no sooner got Home, but she went to Bed, where she felt her Mind distracted with a Thousand Reflections concerning the Earl of Warwick, the attempt he had made appearing to her unpardonable, according to the Rules of Virtue and Good Manners: To carry away a marry'd Lady of her Quality and Conduct, appear'd to be so Presumptuous an Action, as could not take rise but from a Love without Bounds. She fancy'd she saw him at her Feet, vowing an Eternal Respect to her; and to excuse himself on account of his Love, to have bin wanting in it: Notwithstanding which, she remain'd much exasperated against him. How! to carry me away by force, said she to the old Albine, what an Opinion must he have of me? And if he has, How can he Love me? But if he thinks well of me, Which way could he suppose I would remain as much as one Moment in his Power? Alas! continu'd she, all what has happen'd will be laid at my Door, and at that very time I endeavour to forget the Earl of Warwick, and even deny my self the Pleasure of thinking of him, they will imagine, that I was willing to follow him to some solitary Place. How Happy had I bin, added she, had I not bin sav'd from the Danger I under-went this very Day! it would have sav'd me a World of disgrace during the whole Course of my Miserable Life. Having spoken

these Words, she cry'd most bitterly. Albine then taking the Liberty to interrupt her, 'Twould be unjust, said she, to charge you with a thing, you have no share in; No, Ma∣dam, don't disturb your self, your Innocence will confound your Enemies; and, if the Earl of Warwick be never so much irritated against you, he can't but admire and publish your Vertue. Lovers in their Anger give an but in∣different Character of their Mistresses; besides, whatever he can say of me, will be look'd up∣on as suspicious: But Albine, What will the Earl of Devonshire, What will my Mother think of it? I am sure, they will judge me guilty: Oh! fatal Day to my Repose! Oh! cursed Attempt! What is it I have committed, to draw this Misfortune upon me?

Whilst she was in this Agony, the Countess of Anglesey came into the Room; the Confusion she observ'd in her at first meeting near the River-side, had made her resolve to go to the utmost extremity with her Daughter; but upon further Considerations, thought it best to shut her self up for some time in her Chamber, to restore to her Mind that Tranquillity she thought absolutely requisite in an Affair of this Nature. The young Countess perceiving her to be pretty Calm, her fear was chang'd into a reasonable Confidence, so kissing her Mother's Hand seve∣ral times, she gave her a sincere Account of the whole Transaction; and notwithstanding her Inclinations for the Earl of Warwick, did not forget to tell her, that he was the Author of it; believ'd it was sufficient to speak the Truth, to perswade her Mother that she did so; but the old Countess recalling to her Mind the Picture dropt out of the Earl's Pocket, with many other

Circumstances, which made her then suspect a Correspondence betwixt them, now thought she was fully convinc'd, that her Daughter had the Misfortune of being in Love, and to be be∣lov'd. Her austere Temper could not suffer the fore∣sight of the Dangers she suppos'd her Daughter would be expos'd to, so that instead of Condoling her, she broke out into Reproaches: She told her, The Confession she had made her, seem'd to her an affect only of Constraint, since she had told her nothing but what must be divulg'd a course; But that she could very ea∣sily see through that affected Air of Simpli∣city and Ingenuity: That she might rest assur'd she would always side with my, Lord Devon∣shire, to keep her under, seeing she had bin so unfortunate as to suffer her self to be led away by such Sentiments as must make her Blush. The young Countess remain'd so highly afflicted at the Construction her Mother upon put her sin∣cere Confession, that she was not able to speak one Word more in her own behalf. Her Si∣lence serving only to accomplish her Mother's suspicions against her, she left her, convinc'd, as she thought, that the Earl of Warwick had not made this Attempt without her Consent. Af∣ter all this, tho' the Countess of Anglesey judg'd her Daughter guilty of this Error, she was too Wise a Woman not to take all possible Pre∣cautions to conceal it from the Earl of Devon∣shire; she was willing to reduce her Daughter within Bounds, without being accessary to her Ruin.

In the mean while the Earl of Devonshire had scarce ever bin at Twittenham, the Illness of the Chevalier, his Friendship for him, and his In∣differency for his Wife, kept him constantly in

London: He attended constantly at Court, and had he not bin sensible, that the Countess was the most Lovely Person in the World, he might perhaps have look'd out for another Engage∣ment; but there are certain Charms, the Cha∣racters whereof are indelible. Thus he might perhaps never have heard of the Attempt made upon his Wife, had not the Earl of Pembrook, after his return to London, distracted with Spleen and Malice, resolv'd to find out the Cure of his Passion, in his Continual Application of making his Fortune; For tho' the King had a peculiar regard to him, he might have bin much more in his Favour, had he taken the true Course for it: But his Love-Passion for the Countess, being to him instead of every thing, he took more Plea∣sure to employ his Thoughts upon her in his Closet, than to pursue his Advantage by attend∣ing constantly at Court.

He now began to relent at the time he had lost, and the desire he had of being reveng'd of the Earl of Warwick, who stood betwixt him and the King's absolute Favour, made him enter into a strict Friendship with Edward Woodwill Earl of Rivers, a Person more remarkable for his high Deserts, than for his being the Brother of the Fair Widow. For the rest, his Fortune being not very conside∣rable, and the Earl of Pembrook, who was one of the Richest Lords in the Kingdom, making him a sharer in his whole Fortune, this Act of Gene∣rosity so far affected Madam Grey, that she thought the Earl wanted nothing to make him Compleat in her Eyes, than to have an extream Aversion to the Earl of Warwick. The Earl also had given her to understand, that had he met with a less Rival in his Way, than the King, he should have made his Addresses to her; and, as

she was for nothing less than a Match, she could have wish'd he had bin her Spouse, he be∣ing a Person well shap'd, magnificent and engag∣ing in Conversation; so that every thing con∣curr'd to settle a good Correspondence betwixt them.

The Earl of Pembrook knew very well what sub∣ject of Complaint Madam Grey had against the Earl of Warwick, and endeavour'd to hate him as much as she did, having perhaps as pressing Reasons for it as she. Among other things he took delight to relate to her, as if it had bin a true Story, the Attempt that Earl had made for carrying Madam Devonshire away without her Consent; he would give her a Description of the Boat, with some other Circumstances that at∣tended this Enterprize, as he pretended, viz. How by Mischance she fell into the River, which broke all their Measures. Madam Grey was sur∣priz'd, to understand that so unaccountable an Action, perform'd within Eight or Nine Miles of London, should have made not the least Noise, and that the Earl of Devonshire, who was the Person most concern'd therein, should be so lit∣tle acquainted with it as to continue at Court; she was no less surpriz'd at the Earl of Warwick; He had in all Appearance made all his Appli∣cations to his new Mistress, he had fix'd his Business and Pleasures in the same Place, his whole Deportment and Air appear'd altogether compos'd. Is it possible, said she, a Man should be so perfect a Master in the Art of Dissimu∣lation? Who could have suspected him, whilst he Feasts all the Ladies at Court, and is scarce ever out of their Company, he should contrive how to carry away one. In short, it being agreed betwixt her and the Earl of Pembrook, to di∣vulge

the thing, he gave her a full Account of all the Particulars relating to it. And who could better do it than himself? Nothing was omitted, as she was a declar'd Enemy of the Earl of Warwick's: She told the King of it, who shew'd a greater Concern thereat, than she de∣sired. Is it possible, said he, that a Person of his Capacity and Extraction, should thus far bid Farewel to Reason, as to seek thus his own Destruction for ever? If she had once taken a Resolution to allow her self full Liberty, Why did not she pitch upon my Heart, before that of so indiscreet and inconstant a Man? These Words being not very pleasing to the Fair Widow, she Blush'd more than once; but thought it best to say nothing.

The King was so full of this News, that the first time he saw the Earl of Warwick he spoke to him of it; and the Earl being much surpriz'd, thereat, the King thought it had bin fain'd, to avoid to come to a sincere Confession, so that there wanted but little of his being in a great Passion; and as the Earl of Warwick could not devise how such an Adventure, wherein he had not the least share, should be laid to his Charge, he was so taken up with his Thoughts thereupon, that not observing the King was in Earnest, he turn'd the whole Story into Ridicule, tho' at the same time he resolv'd to find out the bottom of the Design. On the other Hand, Madam Grey's Hatred to the Countess of Devonshire was such, as not to suffer her to let slip so fair an Opportunity of revenging her Quarrel: She took effectual Care to make the Earl of Devon∣shire acquainted with what had happen'd at Twit∣tenham, and as he was very apt to believe his own Misfortune, he communicated it to the Chevalier

de Heresord, who bore his full share in his Afflictions, whilst the Earl of Pembrook kept the Key of the whole Secret in his own Hands: 'Twas he that had the satisfaction of seeing so many Per∣sons concern'd in the Interest of my Lady De∣vonshire, reduc'd almost to Despair, and himself thus reveng'd for her Cruel Treatment. Tho' it is certain, he would scarce have carry'd the Mat∣ter so far, had it not bin to oblige Madam Grey; for whom he began already to have a most singu∣lar Esteem.

The Earl of Warwick once more felt the true Symptoms of Jealousy: He thought himself cur'd of his Passion, he amused himself with another not without some satisfaction; but now found himself more afflicted, and more unfortunate than ever. For supposing no otherwise, than that he had bin slighted by the Countess, because she was engag'd with another Lover, he had a Thousand Chime∣ra's in his Head upon that account, which con∣tinually tormented him; What Projects of Ven∣geance did he not contrive? Sometimes he was for advising the Earl of Devonshire how to deal with his Wife; sometimes for finding out his Rival, to Stab him before the Countess's Face; and at last concluded, that this Attempt had in it some∣thing so bold and irregular, that he ought to reproach himself for retaining the least Esteem, in regard of a Person who could expose her self to such an Adventure. The Earl of Pembrook, ambitious to triumph over his Rival, went to give him a Visit; and the Earl of Warwick impa∣tient to see and tell him of the Attempt made upon the Countess of Devonshire, and how it was laid at his door, scarce would give him time to shut the Door of the Closet. 'Tis true, said the Earl of Pembrook, you are charg'd with it, and

truly it seems not very extraordinary, if such a Paris as you, should Ravish such a Hellena as she is. If even I lov'd her still, I should be too much concern'd for her Reputation, to expose her thus; but as I don't Love her any more, it seems Extravagant to lay a thing to my Charge, an Action of so nice a Nature. What then can it be, added the Earl of Pembrook, that could raise this Suspicion, of the thing being transact∣ed by your Orders? 'Tis that what I am ignorant of, and what I will endeavour to find out, said the Earl, and you must assist me in it, since I hope, that in confessing your self a Friend to Madam Grey, to such a Degree as you do, you may ne∣vertheless continue in the same Tye of Friend∣ship with me as before. The Earl of Pembrook told him, that he would sooner renounce her than his Friendship; that he must own, that when he first heard the Relation of what had happen'd at Twittenham, he had believ'd it as all the rest did; but that, since he desir'd it, he would en∣deavour to find it out: Thus they parted like the best Friends in the World.

The End of the First Part.