The rogue: or The life of Guzman de Alfarache. VVritten in Spanish by Matheo Aleman, seruant to his Catholike Maiestie, and borne in Seuill

THE ROGVE: OR, THE SECOND PART OF THE LIFE OF GUZMAN DE ALFARACHE. THE SECOND BOOKE. (Book 2)

Wherein Guzman de Alfarache, treateth of that which befell him in Italie, till he returned into Spaine. (Book 2)

CHAPTER I.

Guzman de Alfarache, leaues Siena, and goes for Florence. He meets with Saya∣vedra, whom he takes into his seruice. And before he comes to Florence, he re∣counts vnto him on the way, many admirable things concerning that 〈◊〉〈◊〉. And when he was arriued there, he shewes him all, that was worth the seeing.

PHOCION (a famous Philosopher in his time) * 1.1 was so poore, that though he tooke a great deale of paines, he could hardly get wherewith∣all to hold life and soule together. Whereupon, as oft as any in the presence of Dionysius the Ty∣rant, * 1.2 and his mortall enemie, made mention ei∣ther of himselfe, or of the manner and course of his life, he made a scoffe and a iest both at it, and him, flouting at his pouertie, and deriding his miserie, thinking with himselfe, that he could not doe him any greater disgrace, nor in∣iure him more, then to mocke at the meannesse of his fortunes. As if he would haue inferred thereupon, that if he had beene a man of that great learning, as the world held him to be, he might therewith haue gained bread to put in his mouth, and not needed to liue in that want, as now he did.

When this came to the Philosophers eare, he was not only not grieued * 1.3 thereat, but laughing at this his follie, he answered him, that reported this vnto him; It is true sir, that Dionysius sayes of me, in terming me poore, for I am truly so; but, I must tell you withall, that he is much poorer, then my selfe, and hath a great deale more reason to be asham'd of himselfe, if he shall but consider his owne wretched estate and condition. For though I lacke mo∣ney, I want not friends: I abound in the more, and faile in the lesse. But as for * 1.4 him, though he be rich in money, he is poore of friends. For I know not any one that he hath. This Philosopher could not satisfie himselfe better, nor with a righter or fuller blow hit out his eyes, then by stiling him, hominem sine ami∣cis; A man, that had not so much as one friend in the world, that he could truly say, was his friend. And albeit, it oftentimes so falleth out, that they are * 1.5 purchased with money, and that this is a principall meanes to winne and wedge them vnto vs, yet this Tyrant had neuer yet the wit either to get or keepe them. And it is no wonder, that he should, of all other, want them. For he, that sayes friend, sayes (in that one word) Goodnesse, and Vertue; compre∣hending in that all the good, that speech, or thought, can reach vnto. Who∣soeuer therefore shall desire to conserue friendship, and to continue in his friends loue, and that the bond of amitie be not broken betweene them, must haue a care, that his workes correspond with his words. But Dionysius, being tyrannie it selfe, and of too ill a digestion to keepe friendship long, and his con∣uersation being worse then his concoction; and for that friends are not so much gotten out of the greatnesse of our fortune, as our vertue; wanting that, he wanted them.

For mine owne part, euer since I had the vse of reason, and knew what dis∣cretion * 1.6 was, I made it my chiefest studie, to get me friends, though at neuer so deare a rate, thinking no cost too much, to purchase so great a treasure. They seeming vnto me (as indeed they are) our greatest helps and comfort, as well in prosperous, as a duerse fortune. Who doth enioy the content of contents, but he that hath true friends? What doth so much lengthen and preserue our peace, our life, our honour, and our wealth, as to see our friends to ioy with vs in our prosperitie? And in aduersitie, from whom, but from them, can we finde any refuge, kindnesse, comfort, helpe, and a fellow-feeling of our miseries, as if they were their owne? A wise man, ought to want all whatsoeuer goods, ra∣ther then good friends. For they are better then our neerest kinsmen, or our * 1.7 owne naturall brothers.

Of the qualities, and conditions of friendship, many haue spoken much (and one day, God willing, we shall say something thereof:) but in my opi∣nion, where friendship is professed, there must be all true and plaine dealing, and such a faire and euen cariage, that it neither leane to alteration, nor giue any offence, nor cause any trouble, nor to aduenture (through our rasn and inconsiderate actions) the loosing of a friend. Two friends ought so to loue one another, as each of them doth seuerally loue himselfe. For that I, and my friend, are as it were all one. And as you see, how quick-siluer dealeth with * 1.8 gold, how close it adheres vnto it, how it workes it selfe into the very entrailes and bowels of it, and being two diuers mettals, are so incorporated, that they become but one masse or lumpe, nothing in the world being able to sunder and diuide them but the pure fire of the furnace, wherein the quick-siluer is consu∣med: So a true friend, who is now become another mans selfe, and by an in∣termixture of their hearts and mindes made as it were one selfe-same thing, no∣thing ought, nor can indeed dissolue this vnion, but death, which is the Chry∣soll, wherein we must at last be all melted one after another.

Man ought to make the same choise of their friends, as they doe of good bookes. For their happinesse consists not neither in the greatnesse of their * 1.9 number, nor the curiousnesse of their binding, but rather to haue a few, and

those good and approued Authors. For oftentimes, it so falleth out, that many friends are rather a hinderance, then a helpe to true friendship: For he is a friend to none, that is a friend to all. Nor are we to choose a friend for our en∣tertainment only, and merrily to spend the time withall, but to make choise of such a one, as may benefit both our soule, and our bodie: one that without re∣spect of humane interest, will aduise him to obserue the diuine precepts. Not only to represent them vnto him, but to speake to the purpose, to admonish him to the obseruation of them, and to instruct him in the true knowledge of them. And if he be called a true friend, who meerely out of friendship, tells his friend the naked truth without masking or disguising it, not as to a third per∣son, but as to one, that is properly his owne, and as freely as if he should treat of any thing belonging to himselfe, or that he himselfe would desire, his friend should say the same to him, on the same occasion, of which sort of friends, that carry that sinceritie and plainenesse with them, few are now a dayes to be found, in whom a man may haue that assured confidence, and entire satisfaction.

Then questionlesse (and that with very good reason) a good booke is a * 1.10 good friend; nay I dare boldly say, there cannot be a better. For from thence, we may draw that vtile & necessarium, that good and necessarie counsell, which we stand in need of, without incurring the shame, of that vaine and idle hu∣mour, which is too common now a dayes, to be rather content to continue still in ignorance, then by asking the question, to seeme to doubt of any thing. But to bookes, we may boldly put the question, and neuer need to be afraid, that they will bewray our ignorance: And besides, we shall receiue this satisfaction from them, that they will faithfully, without flatterie, deliuer vs their opinion. And this one aduantage (and it is a notable one) bookes haue of friends: That our friends, dare not alwayes tell vs what they thinke, and know; for feare of particular interest, or out of tendernesse to offend (as we shall by and by briefly tell you) their friends. So soft a hand hath Loue, when it comes to touch, where it loues. Whereas on the contrary, the counsell that is giuen thee in bookes, is downe-right and plaine, and stands before thee starke-naked, as be∣stript of all manner of vice. And therefore (these things considered) it hath euer beene held one of the hardest and difficultest things in the world, to finde out a true and faithfull friend.

Of which sort, many are spoken of in ancient stories, and we finde a great number of them recorded of olde, and painted forth vnto vs in your feigned fables; but that there either now are, or haue beene such heretofore as are there decyphered vnto vs, I doubt it very much, at least I am fully perswaded, they were very rare and few. One only friend haue I found to be true, and is * 1.11 of the same nature and condition, as we are. And this friend of ours, is the best, the bountifullest, the truest, and the faithfullest of all other; for this is neuer wanting to it's friend, but continues firme and constant for euer, nor is at any time weary of giuing: And this good friend of ours, (that I may not hold you any longer in suspence) is the Earth.

This affords vs pretious stones, gold, siluer, and diuers other mettals, where∣of we stand in need, and so earnestly thirst after. It bringeth forth grasse, and * 1.12 all sorts of herbes, wherewith are not only fed our flocks of sheepe, our cattell, and other beasts for the vse and seruice of man, but those medicinable simples, which conserue our health, free vs from diseases, and if we fall into sicknesse, set vs vpright againe, preseruing this life of ours, in a sound and perfect state of health. It yeeldeth vs all sorts of fruits, that are either sauourie to the taste, or nourishable to the bodie. It giues vs wooll, and flax, and by consequence, all kinde of wouen stuffes, wherewith we cloath, and adorne, this naked flesh of ours. It opens its owne veines of its owne accord, whilest from its f•…•…ll brests, sprout forth those sweet and delicate waters, which we drinke; those brookes

and riuers, which get the fields with childe, and make them fruitfull, and not only that, but doth facilitate commerce, and make an easie way for trafficke, bringing the strangest and remotest parts of the world to shake hands, and to communicate their commodities one with another, and to liue in a league of loue and friendship together. Nay more, it is so good, and so sweet a friend, that it suffereth, and willingly consenteth to all that we will our selues. Be shee well or ill vsed by vs, all is one to her, so as we be pleased. Shee is like a sheepe, from whom you shall heare no other language, but Omnia bene: All is well. Leade her forth to feed, or bring her to the waters to drinke; shut, and penne her vp, or let her loose; take her lambkin from her, her milke, her wooll, nay her very life, to all shee alwayes answers bien: all is well. And all that bien, or good that we haue on earth, the Earth giues it vs. And for an vpshot of all, when we are now dead, and lye stinking aboue ground, when there is neither wife, father, sonne, kinsman, nor friend, that will abide and endure our compa∣nie any longer, but doe all of them vtterly forsake vs, and flie from vs; then, euen then, doth not shee refuse vs, but huggs vs, and makes much of vs, and opening her owne wombe, takes vs in vnto her, where we quietly lye, as it were in deposito, till shee render afterwards a faithfull account of what shee hath receiued, and deliuers vs vp to a new and eternall life. And amongst many her other excellencies, one of the worthiest things in her, and deseruing most com∣mendation, is; That shee doing so much for vs, as shee doth, and that so con∣tinually and without ceasing, being so generous, and so franke-hearted, that shee is neuer tyred out, neuer growes weary, yet doth shee not looke for any requitall, shee neither askes, nor expects any returne of kindnesse, nor doth shee talke and tell of it, nortwit thee in the teeth with it; which some kinde of friends, more vsually, then commendably, doe.

Amongst so many friends, as I had, and did daily conuerse withall, I found very few, who had not an eye to the north-starre of their owne proper interest, and shap't their course by the Compasse of their owne priuate ends; hauing only a desire to deceiue, not hauing any respect at all to the friendship they pro∣fest, being devoide of all loue, truth, and shame: I was of an easie and tractable nature, my condition was facile and •…•…pt to be mis-led, their tongue was all ho∣nie, but their heart was very gall it selfe: whose bitternesse, I had too often tasted to my cost.

Considering therefore the falshood that now adayes is vsed in friendship, and mens craftie and subtle cariage, we are not so much to wonder that we are; as, that we are not deceiued. For I finde them, as liberall in promising, as nig∣gardly in performing; as facile in their words, as difficile in their deeds. There are now no more Pilades, nor Orestes; they are dead and gone; and with them, almost the remembrance, that there were euer any such kinde of men. I only speake this for my Pompeyos sake; whom I therfore condemne the more, for that I lou'd him more then any other, and tooke him to be my especiall friend. For, most of my friends, I gained by my words, but this man, I presum'd I had pur∣chast by my deeds. When I was in my prosperitie, I had many friends, all men did desire my loue, made much of me, feasted me, and did offer their seruice vnto me: But my moneys failing, they also failed; so that their friendship, and my money had an end at once. * 1.13

And as there is no misfortune, that toucheth vs so neere, as to call to minde the happy estate, wherein heretofore we did liue; so there is not any sorrow, that equals that, of being forsaken by those friends, whose loue and friendship we did euer desire to conserue. That little wealth that I had, was stolne from me, which was my vndoing. I continued some dayes (though but a few) in my friends house, how beit he thought them too many; in which short time, he fell off from me by degrees, by a little and a little vnwedging himselfe from me, and vnloosing those knots, which had knit vs in friendship together;

finding at last, that I had but a slipperie eele in my hand, who when I thought * 1.14 I had surest hold of him, slipt when he saw his time from me, leauing my hand empty. He was a Cordouese, in the freenesse of his offers; and would say vnto me after that we had dined; Sir, is there any thing else, that you would be pleased to command? If there be, I pray Sir make as bold of any thing this house affords, as if it were your owne. But these were but generall words, and matter of complement; for he went not vpon certainties, nor promised me any thing, that I might trust vnto, but did rather seeme to proffer this his kind∣nesse doubtfully and fearefully, lest I might chance to take him at his word. And that little curtesie, which he shewed me, was not so much out of any hearty good will, that he had to doe it, as for feare lest I should seeke to recouer my lost goods of him, by course ofLaw.

I read his thoughts in his lookes: And as mine were alwayes noble, so on the contrary, his were base and vile. And as oft as he spake of my losse, if he vsed any complement with me, it was all dissimulation, and counterset stuffe. Well, whatsoeuer it were, either better or worse, I was much offended at it, and thought that he did me therein a great deale of wrong, and did seriously risent this his double dealing, and these faire but false showes of his loue. But he, on the other side, did as earnestly persist in the pursuit of his simulations, as if he had meant nothing lesse, then to play vpon me, and abuse me; or as if they had some ground of truth with them: And because I stoutly stood to it, and bore out this businesse as well as I could, that he might not perceiue any de∣iectednesse in me, he tooke heart thereupon, and made sleight of it, as a matter of little, or no importance. For the losse was mine, and not his; and there∣fore he made the lesse reckoning of it.

Wherefore, that I might not giue him farther trouble, perceiuing how much perplexed he was, and how willing to be rid of me, I resolued with my selfe to free him of that feare, and to goe for Florence. I imparted this my pur∣pose vnto him, telling him, that I much desired to see that Citie, for the great commendation, that I had heard of it, and those famous sights that were there to be seene. And because this my determination suted with his desire, he tooke hold on this occasion, relating vnto me many memorable things, worthy my sight, wherewith my will was the more inflamed, and the desire which I had to see it, much increased. But he did not doe this so much, to commend it vnto me, or out of any good desire, that he had, that I should see it, but only that he might see me no more in his house; and for that he is an vnwelcome a 1.15 guest, * 1.16 that is a mans guest against his will. After that I had thus broken my minde vnto him, he began to blow the winde afresh of his kinde vsage of me, that he might oblige me thereby to get me the sooner out of his house, and to depart from thence peaceably and quietly; for he was not a little afraid of me. He * 1.17 then signified vnto me, how sorry he was that I would needs be gone; but vsed no intreaties, nor any the least resistance, to haue me to stay. He deman∣ded of me, when I was minded to begin my iourney, but neuer asked, what I wanted; which he might haue done out of good manners, though he had no meaning to pleasure me. Which proffer, had he made it me, it should not haue beene performed by him so much out of complement and ceremonie, as that he might thereby learne, how long, or how little a while I meant to stay with him, not knowing as yet the houre, when I me•…•…nt to be gone. It is an easie b 1.18 thing, to see; more easie, to speake; but it is a hard thing to fore-see. For all that see, doe not know; and all that speake, doe not doe. And for that he now saw, that he should haue no farther need of me, for that I like a foole, told him ere I was aware, that I was not minded to returne any more to Rome, he began to cast with himselfe, What good can this cocks-combe doe me now? or of what vse and profit will this foole be vnto me hereafter? And so from that time forward, he vsed me accordingly, which was no worse, then

mine owne indiscretion deserued. Then did I learne to my cost, how a man may come to know a generous and noble minde; which is seene in nothing more then in a thankfull acknowledgment of benefits already receiued.

In this alteration of fortune, there were set before mine eyes a thousand dangers, that I neuer dream't of. But because I had as yet so much spirit left me, as was able to put me forward, I was not vtterly dismaid, nor quite dishartned. I studied to forget that, which I could not helpe; making my meanes, the thinking on my iourney. And because noueltie, and things of a strange na∣ture, doe draw the mindes of men after them, out of the desire that they haue to know them, I made all the haste I could to get me gone from Siena, as well out of this respect, as also that I might leaue Pompeyo well pleased therewith; who, I knew, would neuer thinke himselfe well at ease, till he were well eased of me. For albeit men commonly say to their guests; I pray fall to your meat, and be merry, for I assure you, you are heartily welcome; yet whether you be merry, or not merry, welcome, or not welcome, they thinke you are bound vnto them for a meales meat, and put euery morsell to account, that goes downe thy threat.

This hoggishnesse of his, this his vnciuill cariage, this dissembled care of his, and this his great feare that he had, that I would continue longer with him, did much trouble me. Well, I tooke my leaue of him; and because I was still the same man, as I was wont to be, as also in regard of that loue and friend∣ship, which I truly bore vnto him, at the time of this our departure each from other, I did so grieue thereat, that I was not able to speake a word, no not so much as to bid him, farewell; yet could not this my inward sorrow, draw so much as one teare into his eyes, or to make any the least show of griefe. And so all alone, I set forward on my iourney, but more then well accompanied with * 1.19 a world of melancholy thoughts, nor slightly attended by a multitude of cares, wherewith I was so ouer-laden, that my horse was ready to sinke vnder me, as vnable to beare so great a burthen. And therefore I rode plotting and deuising with my selfe, how I might make them lighter, and so case both my selfe and my horse of them.

I had not gone thus musing many miles, but it was my hap to light on Saya∣vedra, * 1.20 who had left Siena to cumply with his banishment. Whom I no sooner saw, but my kinde heart began to melt, and I could not chuse but take com∣passion of him, and withall I must needs salute him; placing my eyes, not vpon the hurt, which he had done me, but on the harme, from which he once had freed me. Esteeming more of that kindnesse I then receiued from him, then * 1.21 of all that, that he had rob'd me of. And he is a bad pay-master, and doth ill deserue a curtesie, who doth not with aduantage requite a receiued kindnesse. Besides; Liberalitie, supposeth a generous and noble spirit, and is of that high esteeme, for that it is originally descended from heauen, that it is alwayes found in those mindes, that are destinated thereunto. I could not for my life refraine from speaking louingly vnto him, nor he abstaine from receiuing me with teares, which guttring downe his cheekes, dropt downe vpon my feet, as he bowed him-selfe to kisse my stirrop, whereof he taking fast hold, fell downe on * 1.22 his knees, crauing pardon for this his error, humbly and earnestly beseeching me, that I would be pleased to forgiue him; rendring me likewise thanks, that during the time of his imprisonment, I neuer offred to accuse him; excusing himselfe also, that he had not, as soone as he was set at libertie, come to visit me, laying the fault thereof, in his lacke of boldnesse, and the largenesse of his offence. Yet, for to make satisfaction and payment of this his debt, he would become my slaue, and doe me faithfull seruice all the dayes of his life; I, who euer knew him to be a man, that had both a strong braine, and a nimble wit, which d•…•… him rather hurt, then good, because he did not well imploy them; yet, for that these did adapt him, and make him fit for any imployment what∣soeuer,

I was the more willing to accept of his offer. And so taking him into * 1.23 my seruice, we ioggd on along by little and little like a couple of good fel∣lowes, talking of diuers things on the way.

And albeit I was not ignorant, that he was a notorious theefe, and a notable cunning rogue, yet I held it the lesser inconuenience of the two, to haue a knaue, then a foole, to my man. For foolishnesse did neuer yet but walke hand * 1.24 in hand with wickednesse. And both of them being ioyned together, are suffi∣cient to vndoe not only a priuate house, but a whole Common-wealth. For the simple, or foolish man, cannot keepe counsell, nor knowes when and where to hold his peace; nor the wicked and malitious man, to iudge of things a•…•…ght; and if either of them, vttereth what he thinketh, (for commonly their tongue blabbeth, what their heart conceiueth) scandals, and troubles are already en∣tred within the doores of our house, and like impudent rogues, sticke not to presse into our priuatest roomes, to see what they can get from thence. I thought with my selfe, if I would haue any one to serue me, (good seruants being so few, and so hard to be got) that this would be lesse b•…•…d then any other, because by those his cunning tricks, that he had plaid with me already, he made me the more warie of him, and taught me (•…•…s if I had beene some La∣cedemonian) * 1.25 to throw my beard c 1.26 ouer my shoulder: that is, to haue an eye vnto him, and to be the more circumspect and warie of him, and to take the better heed, looking still behinde me, as those doe that haue enemies, turning their head one while this way, another while that, that they may not be set vpon vn-awares. And therefore knowing him so well as I did, I thought it as good, if not better, to entertaine a knaue that I knew, as a knaue, that I knew not. For I knew well enough, that I must looke narrowly to his water, and watch him at euery turne, wherein I meant not to be negligent: Whereas, in taking of another, that should seeme to beare the face of an honest man, and make show of being faithfull and trustie vnto me, I might haply grow carelesse out of the confidence that I haue in him, and by this my credulitie be coozened of all that I had, and afterwards be left to looke after moone-shine in the water.

As well in this respect, as also for that I had not much now to lose, nor was my condition or qualitie such, that I should stand so nicely vpon these points, I admitted him into my seruice. He askt me (as soone as I had entertained him) which way I meant to take? I told him, I was for Florence, led thither out of a desire that I had to satisfie my longing, by seeing that Citie, whereof I had heard •…•…o much. Whereunto my seruant replied, and said; Sir, whatsoeuer you haue heard thereof, I make no question, when you come there, but your selfe will confesse, report hath beene too short with you. For I assure you, there are so many admirable things therein to be seene, that they cannot suffi∣ciently be commended. For the naked relations of things, that are curious and good indeed, neuer fill the vacuitie and emptinesse of our desires. I haue liued there some time, yet all the while as I remained there, as if I had beene but come that very day to towne, wheresoeuer I went, new things were still offered to my view: and I would neuer with my good will haue left that Towne, if my friends had not forced me from thence.

I began to aske him some questions, touching the foundation of that Citie, and whence it had its first beginning? Sir (said he) seeing we haue day enough before vs, and that we may talke and walke faire and softly, and that the rela∣tion, which I am to make you is but short; I shall, for the better satisfying of vour desire, acquaint you, and that truly, with all those curiosities, that did then offer them-selues vnto my knowledge.

Then did he forth with begin to discourse of those ciuill warres, which were * 1.27 occasioned by Catiline, betweene those of Fiesole, and Florence; the o•…•…er∣throwes, which one while those of the Romane faction receiued, another while their enemie, Bela Totile. How in the time of Pope Leo the third, the Emperor * 1.28

Charles the Great, sent a great Armie against the Fiesolani, leauing Florence re∣edified in the hands of the Florentines, till that Pope Clement the seuenth, and * 1.29 the Emperor Charles the fifth recouered the same, for to restore it to its ancient possession, from which the house of the Medics had beene put out. Which suc∣ceeded in the yeere of our Lord, 1529. Euer since which time, the Florentines haue alwaies been gouerned by one sole Prince; which, though it seemed some∣what harsh vnto them at the first, yet now they see their error, and finde now at length how much more quietly they liue vnder the protection of their owne Prince, and with how much more safetie, both of their liues and goods. It is said, that the first Prince, that euer they had, was Alessandro de Medici; who, for his sweetnesse of nature, his magnanimitie, and valour, though violently he * 1.30 lost that principalitie in the very flower of his youth, yet might he justly be termed Alessandro. After him, succeeded, that wise, and worthy Cosimo, great Duke of Tuscanie, whose memoriall, for his heroicall actions, and great ver∣tues, * 1.31 as also for his courteous behauiour, his religion, and good gouernment, shall liue eternally in the mindes of the liuing. This Prince was succeeded by Francesco, who, for that he died without issue, the Crowne came to that fa∣mous * 1.32 Ferdinando his brother, the liuely image, and true picture of his father Cosimo, being as well heire to his Vertues, as his Estate. Who gouerned so wor∣thily, and so wisely, that I doe not know any other, with whom I may equall him, for the loue that his subiects bare him.

If th•…•… relation, he then made me, had beene a little longer, he must of force haue deferr'd it till the next day; but it seemed, that he had measured it out iust with the time: for we were come as neere night, as we were to our Inne•…•… whereinto we went to lodge. And hauing there well rested and refresht our selues, we got vp betimes in the morning, and that we might the sooner get into Florence, we did set the best foot before, and made a little more haste, then otherwise we would haue done. But when we came within sight of it, I was * 1.33 so ouer-ioyed, that I am not able to expresse it, so faire and so beautifull did it a farre of present it selfe vnto me. For though I could not take a full view of it, yet from the one end to the other, and from almost the bottome to the top, I might reasonably well discerne it; and a more pleasing sight, did mine eyes neuer see. I did examine the pleasantnesse of its situation, I beheld the beauty of many great and goodly buildings, the inexpugnable strength of its stately walls, the maiestie, and firmnesse of its high, and well formed Towers. In a word, the whole pile thereof, seemed such vnto me, that I stood amazed at it, and could not (me thought) too much admire it. I would not willingly, haue mou'd out of the place where I stood, nor haue drawne neerer to the Towne, but haue kept my selfe at that very distance; as well, for that mine eye was wonderfull well pleased therewith, as also for that I would not wrong that de∣light, which I now receiued, when I should draw neerer thereunto; if perad∣uenture (as it vsually falleth out with most things) it should lessen it selfe, and fall short of that goodly prospect, which I did here enjoy.

But, when I did consider with my selfe, that all this glorious show, was, but as it were the outward case of it, my iudgement did then begin to instruct me, that the iewels therein contained, must needs be richer, and faire more glori∣ous, as indeed they were. For, when I was entred thereinto, and saw the spa∣tiousnesse of the streets, how streight and leuell they were, how plaine and smooth, paued all with cleane hewen stones of goodly faire marble, and their houses built with beautifull stones, so costly, so curious, so nearly polished, so artificially wrought, and with such a deale of skill and cunning, in the archi∣tecture thereof, I was so confounded, that I could not tell what to thinke of it. For I could not imagine with my selfe, that any other Citie in the world, could haue compar'd with Rome for beauty: But hauing well viewd this, for its bignesse, it goes farre beyond it. For those buildings that are in Rome, the

best of them are gone to ruine, and few of them left standing; and those that are now remaining, are but meere shadowes, and the very ruines and fragments of those, that were so famous in former times. But Florence, is the flower of the world, all is therein so flourishing, so costly, and so well set forth, that I said vn∣to Sayavedra; Certainly, if the inhabitants of this Citie be as curious in the tricking of their women, as they are in the adorning, and beautifying of their houses, they are vndoubtedly the happiest men in the world. I was so strucken with admiration, that I was desirous to haue dwelt a long time in contempla∣ting and beholding euery particular peece of building; but because night was now growing on, and that the day would not befriend vs any longer, I was faine to retire my selfe to my lodging. And we were not slacke in hastning to our Inne, whither when we were come, we were so neatly and so daintily en∣tertained, that I cannot so much indeare it, as it truly deserueth. Such plenty of prouision, such cleanlinesse in their lodging-chambers, such sweetnesse in their linnen, such diligent attendance, such affable language, and such good vsage, did I neuer meet withall else-where in all my life. I was so taken there∣with, that it made me almost to forget that which I most desired. I slept so soundly that night (thankes to the good bed, that was vnder me) that it see∣med vnto me scarce halfe an houre, since my first lying downe.

When the morning was come, (though with a heart full of sorrow, for that was then my Mount Tabor) I call'd to Sayauedra, to giue me my clothes; and for that he was so well acquainted with that Citie, I will'd him to make him∣selfe ready to goe along with me, that he might show me all, whatsoeuer was of any note, and held (as curiosities) to be worth the seeing. And that first of all he should bring me to the chiefe Church, where hauing heard diuine ser∣uice, and recommended our selues vnto God, all things would prosper after∣wards the better with vs. Thither he led me, and hauing ended our deuotion, I stood like one amaz'd in beholding that most famous Temple and fabricke del b 1.34 Zimborio, which they there call c 1.35 Cupula, which in my opinion, may be better termed Copula, for that it seemed not only to my selfe, but as many as beheld it, that therein was copulated, and ioyned as it were together, all that curious Architecture, which the writings of the best and skilfullest professors, in that profession, either theoricke, or practicke, haue published to the world, so admirable a peece of workmanship, such a deale of greatnesse, strength, and cu∣riositie, (without any wrong or iniurie to any other fabricke of Europe) may iustly challenge the name of the eighth wonder of the world. Let him consider with himselfe, who hath any knowledge in Architecture, it being foure hun∣dred and twenty handfuls high, besides the spire that is on the top of it, what d 1.36 diameter, this Cupula will require; and by this he may come to guesse, what manner of thing it is.

From thence I went to the Annunciata, a Church so called, to see the image, that was painted there vpon the wall, which might more properly be termed Heauen; so admirable a peece of worke, is that picture of the Incar∣nation of the Sonne of God: Insomuch that it is held there for certaine, that it was drawne by one, that was no lesse excellent in his Art, then holy in his life. For, when he had made an end of that which there you see painted, and that there remained no more to be done, but to finish and make vp the face of our blessed Lady the Virgin; being wonderfull timerous and fearefull, much misdoubting and musing with himselfe, whether or no, he should be able to giue it its true life, and to fit it euery way in its age, in truenesse of its colour, its complexion, in its honest and sober countenance, and in the demure and modest posture of its eyes, in this confusion of his, and these his distracted thoughts, not deui∣sing with himselfe, what he were best to doe, he laid himselfe downe a while to sleepe, and awaking anon after, and minding to betake him to his pensill, and to put his hand (by the helpe of God) to the peece of worke, he found it

made to his hand. And therefore, it needs not our farther commendation, for it being to be presupposed, that it was there miraculously wrought either by Gods owne hand, or some one of his Angels, it can be said to be no lesse, then an Angelicall picture. And for this cause, the rest of that peece being conside∣red, which the Painter made, we may easily conceiue, what kinde of spirit he had, who could finde so much fauour, as to haue the hands of heauen (as if for the time, they had beene bound prentises to his Trade) to helpe him to grinde and mixe his colours, and to make an end of his worke for him.

So many miracles doth it daily worke, such a concourse of people doth con∣tinually flocke thither out of deuotion, and so great are the almes, that are there distributed & giuen to the poore, that I did much wonder, that all the beggars were not wondrous rich; which put me in minde of that poore man, who (as I was told, and you haue heard) made in this Citie, that his famous last Will and Testament, wherein he bequeathed his Asses pack-saddle to the Great Duke; That seeming now vnto me but a little small summe, in comparison of that, which such a one as he, might very well haue gained in that place. And for that it is a knowne truth, Que el hijo de la gata, ratones mata: That the sonne of a Cat, will kill his Rat. Or (as our English Prouerbe hath it) Cat will to his kinde; a thousand, and a thousand times, did I bethinke my selfe of many things that I had done in my younger dayes, and did now as it were plainely perceiue; that if, as I went to Rome, it had beene my good hap to haue lighted in this Citie, what with my roguish tricks, my counterfeit scurffs, leprosies, and fore legs, I might haue come to be a mayorazgo amongst them, and to haue pur∣chased some great Lordship.

I did likewise obserue, that few of these rogues, were curious, and cunning, * 1.37 or that they were their crafts-masters; but were, for the most part, fooles, meere block-heads, and had little or no wit at all, in comparison of those in my time. And when I did perceiue, what poore counterfeits they were, and how sillily they did order their affaires, it was sport alone to me. I tooke a great deale of pleasure in looking on them, and I did secretly wish to my selfe, that I might haue had the opportunitie, to reforme a thousand imperfections, which I pre∣sently saw in them. Who did euer see, that an honest poore beggar, that was a good proficient in his trade, nay, say he were neuer so meanely bred to it, would when he had most, (vnlesse he were a very cocks-combe) haue more then six, or seuen Maranedis, or some such like trifle, and not about, in his hat? nor to haue such a summe of money lie open to the peoples eye, that they may thereby be taught to tell him; you need no more, you haue as much there al∣ready, as will very well serue to supply your wants for this day, and to put bread enough in your belly; and therefore, that he should get him gone, and giue way to other poore folkes, that had more need, then he had? When was it euer knowne, that there was euer seene any beggar, of that poore vnderstan∣ding, though he were but a new beginner, that would beg, hauing a loafe of bread vnder his arme? or to stand, as I saw another, with a tooth-pick in his care? Which I no sooner saw, but I said to my selfe: O thou poore silly theefe, thou traitor to thy profession; Art thou such an Asse, as to let euery man know, that thou hast eaten so much, that there are some remnants yet left be∣hinde in thy teeth? I saw not one amongst them all, that could play his game handsomely, nay scarce know how to set his men in their right place, nor to take their due time for the hitting of a blot; I saw no order, no decorum amongst them; they had no skill in this kinde of musicke; many of them could say their Gammoothe, (and that too they had learned by rote) but knew not how to proue a note; others there were, that had a little paltry skill in plaine-song, but would bawle it out so scuruily and so vntuneably, that no care was able to endure it: And none of all this dunghill crew, that like Chaunti∣cleere, could chaunt it out lustily, descant and diuide at pleasure, and so to

relish and melt their notes, as to make their hearts to melt that heare them, and to moue them to compassion of them.

There did I spie a young man, one of my old acquaintance, who was now a * 1.38 pretty well-growne man; this was the only beggar (I meane compared with the rest) that knew any thing amongst them. And would to God (thought I) that I might be so happy, as to come once to set my hands, where he had set his heart. For questionlesse, he could not chuse but be rich. He was the sonne of such parents, as were able to leaue him much. His father was a notable cun∣ning rogue, and could his craft wonderfull well. And this his sonne, was euery way like vnto him. He was leane visag'd, lanke bellied, spindle-shank'd, and so alike suted in all the rest, that a man might truly say of him; That, t'was fathers n'owne sonne. But because euery thing hath its time appointed, and takes it course when it comes, and for that the Iustice did not there permit, the ha∣uing of an Academie, for the trayning vp of these fresh men, what through want of exercise, and not trying of conclusions, and putting them in practise, they may now throw away their caps, whilest themselues with their breviaticke Art, may lie wallowing in the durt. I knew him, but he did not know me: He might well say vnto me, Tal•…•…e veo, que no te conosco: The world is so changed * 1.39 with thee, that I doe not know thee. O, what a terrible conflict had I with my selfe, what a shrewd temptation, to goe and speake to him: but I durst not. I said to Sayavedra; Seest thou that poore fellow? That rogue is able to make me rich. He then said vnto me; Why doth he then goe a begging? I told him; * 1.40 When men haue once begun to open their mouthes to craue an almes, and haue shut their eyes to all shame, and bound their hands from all labour, and that their feet are benum'd, and wax stiffe from taking any paines, or care to liue in a lawfull course, their disease is beyond all cure, and there is no remedie to redresse this euill.

The experience whereof I saw in a poore young wench in my time, who comming to Rome poore and sicke, fell a begging for Gods sake. And when shee * 1.41 was well recouer'd of her health, and as strong of her bodie, as any bull, shee still continued her trade of begging. They, whose almes shee craued, told her, it was shame for her to beg, shee was young, and lustie, and was able to serue, and worke for her liuing. Shee answered; that shee was often troubled with a cruell paine and griping of the heart, which when the fitt tooke her, caused her to fall downe to the ground in a swound, beating her feet and her hands against the earth, renting and tearing all that shee could lay hand on, and kick∣ing and spurning at those that came neere her. In this sort, did shee cozen the world a long time, and spent many yeeres in this lewd fashion, till at last one of her owne Countrymen being askt, whether he knew her father, and her mother? Answered, He did; And that they were both dead, and had left her a great deale of wealth. Whereunto (as lawfull Inheretrix) shee laid claime. Whose estate was now such, and so great, that many principall men became Sutors vnto her, and sought to haue her to wife, and some of them exceeding rich (for there is no e 1.42 yron so foule, that it will not be guilded; gold hides and * 1.43 couers all, be it neuer so rustie) shee was penny-white (as we say) and so was married in the end to one of an honest condition, and well to liue, and an hand∣some man withall. But this wife of his, seeing shee was now depriued of her wonted libertie of begging, grew within a little while after desperately sicke, daily withering and wasting away, the Physitians not being able to search into the nature of her disease. And thus shee continued for a good while, till shee be∣came her owne physitian, and cured her selfe, by playing the hypocrite, making solemne profession, that meerely out of humilitie, shee would goe a begging, and eat not any thing, but what should be giuen her of almes, wherewith shee would sustaine this sinfull carkasse of hers. And to this end, would she go vp and downe her house amongst her seruants, first to one, and then to another, crauing

and begging some thing of them. And because all did giue her almes, and none denie her, that did not fully please her, but did much trouble her; where∣fore, oftentimes, shee would steale vp into a priuate roome that shee had, and there shut her selfe in, where shee had some pictures of certaine great persons, that were fairely hung vp in frames, and euen of these (to satisfie this her ill habit, and to keepe her selfe in vre) would shee likewise demand an almes.

Sayavedra, maruelled much at it; Who brought me from thence, to the outward Court belonging to the Palace; in the midst whereof I might see a braue Prince, mounted vpon a beautifull horse of brasse, so curiously cut to the life, and so well proportioned in euery part, that they both seemed to haue life and motion. My apprehension, could not discerne, and therefore durst not pre∣sume to iudge, which of the two were better, either this, or that at Rome; yet inclined in the end with that short vnderstanding of mine, to giue the praise to that which was there present; not for that it was present, but because it did de∣serue it. I askt of Sayavedra, whose statua that was? He told me, it was the great Dukes, Cosimo de Medici. Of whom I went discoursing vnto you vpon the * 1.44 way. And here, great Ferdinando, his sonne, (who lately was, but is not now aliue) caused it to be set vp to perpetuall memorie. I would needs know out of curiositie, of what height it might be, and not being able to reach thereunto to take the measure of it, I was informed, that from the very bottome to the top, was about some fiftie handfuls high, little more, or lesse. Round about the said place, were many other delicate peeces cast in brasse, and some, of substantiall, yet very fine marble, so artificially wrought, that they did driue the beholders into great admiration; leauing euen the best iudgements in suspense, and stag∣gering those wits most, that were most acute; excepting only such, as had some inckling afore-hand, what manner of things they were.

Afterwards, we visited the Temple of S. Iohn Baptist, as being most worthy * 1.45 our particular remembrance; for I may truly say of it, that there is scarse the like in the world for all in all. Which glorious fabricke, I then learned, was founded in the time of Octauianus Augustus the Emperor, and consecrated to Mars. There did I entertaine my selfe in obseruing its antiquitie, and foun∣dation, wherein I tooke much content; and the more, for that it is reported of it, and receiued by tradition, as also grounded vpon reason, (in regard of its foundation) That it is to last and continue, to the finall consummation and end of the world. Which we may the rather be induced to beleeue, for that neither length of time, nor those continuall warres, accompanied with so many calamities, haue as yet had the power either to deface, or destroy it. All the Citie besides being left desolate and laid leuell with the ground, only this Temple remaining still vntoucht. The bodie of it, consists of eight angles, all spatious, strong, and maruellous beautifull to behold; especially those its three great doores, which are shut vp with six halfe doores, all of brasse, cast in curious molds, and all of one entire peece, wrought with Histories of embossed worke, so daintily handled, so finely raised, and so proportionably equall in euery point, as may well be presumed from the Artizans of that Citie, who beare away the bell from all the rest, in that kinde, that are in the world.

This Temple hath likewise another greatnesse belonging vnto it, which is this; That there being in Florence one and forty Parish Churches, two and * 1.46 twenty Monasteries of Fryars, forty and seuen Nunneries, foure Colledges or Houses for those that are willing to retire themselues from the world, eight and twenty Hospitals, and two bearing the name of IESVS; yet there is no baptisme vsed in any of these, saue only in that of S. Iohn, and in that Church, are all the children of this Citie baptized, from the meanest amongst the com∣mons, to the principall Gentlemen, and the great Dukes owne children. For that time, that we stayed there, we visited all the Churches-one after another, which were of that admirable workmanship, and set forth with such singular

and rare curiosities, that it is not possible to relate no not the least part thereof, in regard of the muchnesse of them, (the number of them being so infinite,) nor is the vnderstanding capable of apprehending them, much lesse our out∣ward eye. For he that should goe about to make a memoriall of so great a Ma∣china, and such a masse of things, whose admirable parts are so numberlesse, and euery one of them accompanied with sundry peeces of such singular Art, and exquisite workemanship, besides so many excellent pictures, some in tables, and some ingrauen in brasse, and other mettals, had need to make thereof a huge great Volume, and to seeke out some other Chronicler, that shall be bet∣ter able then my selfe, to present these things to the eyes of the Reader, and to giue them their due commendation.

The great Duke, hath a Palace in the Citie, which is called Il Palaggio de Piti; whose excellencies, greatnesses, and curiosities, as well in gardens, as * 1.47 fountaines, mounts, groues, sports for hunting, and goodly roomes, may (with∣out indearing) be truly said to be a princely and royall seat; and such a one, as may compare with any other whatsoeuer in all Europe.

I would not omit to know and see the circuit of this Citie, which contai∣neth * 1.48 in it such store of wealth. And I found it to be much about fiue mile com∣passe: it hath ten great Gates, and one and fifty Towers. The Citie is seated all within the walls, and hath no suburbs adioyning thereunto. Through the midst of it passeth the famous riuer of Arnus, vpon which stand foure most stately bridges, all pau'd with stone, and very strongly built, being large and spatious withall. And all these things, being thus done in perfection; the like perfe∣ction is also to be found in their gouernment, their behauiour, and in the gene∣rall fashion, and cariage of that people. And therefore iustly, and with a great deale •…•…son, is this Citie called Florencia, as being flos florum, the flower of flowers, and as it were the only nose-gay of all Italie. Wherein all things, as in a curious garden, doe flourish ioyntly together, but more particularly these especiall and singular good things; As the liberall Arts, horsemanship, all kinde of learning, militarie discipline, true dealing, faire proceeding, sweet be∣hauiour, plainenesse and sinceritie in their actions, and aboue all I must recom∣mend vnto thee, their loue and kindnesse towards strangers. Shee like a true mother, imbraces them in her bosome, huggs them, makes much of them, and * 1.49 fauours them more, then shee doth her owne children; to whom, in respect of them, shee may be termed a mother in law.

The time, that I stayed there, I came to know the Causes by their Effects: to wit, by knowing the nature and condition of the inhabitants, and the poli∣ticke lawes, by which they were gouerned, and their due obseruation of them, not erring a tittle from them. There they apply themselues truly to know and * 1.50 esteeme euery mans merits, rewarding them with iust and due honours; to the end that all may be incouraged to vertue. And let not Princes thinke it a small glory vnto them, for they ought to acknowledge it for one of the greatest, that can be giuen them, when it is truly said of them, that their noble and renowned actions, doe iumpe and concurre with those of their subiects.

I likewise knew that to be true, which Sayavedra had told me about the fa∣ctions in Court, and the crossing and thwarting one another. I saw somewhat of that, which did exceed in other places, as Enuie, and Flatterie, whereof no * 1.51 Princes Court is free, which alwayes raigne there most, where is desire of s•…•…our, but more especially, when they labour to increase it, and to keepe themselues in grace with their Soueraigne. Which oftentimes turne to the great hurt of both the one and the other. They are fine and witty re∣lators of other mens actions, and subtle Mathematicians, for to delineate and measure out that which other men can doe, and sometime that, which others cannot. But let these things rest, without farther entring into them. For hauing painted forth vnto you, in so great a perfection,

this illustrious and noble Citie, it is not fit that I should blemish it with so foule a blot, and dash as it were with a cole, that faire commendation, that I haue giuen it.

CHAP. II.

Guzman de Alfarache goes to Bologna in pursuit of Alexandro, who had stolne his trunkes from him; Whither, when he was come, going about to imprison Alexan∣dro, himselfe was clapt vp.

IN Florence, I did eat out that horse, which my Lord Em∣bassador * 1.52 had bestowed on me at my departure, and made me one mor•…•…g a breakfast of his shooes. I say; To the end I might •…•…ell him the better, I caused him to be new shod, giuing order to Sayavedra to make money of the old ones; whereof we made our breakfast. If this here∣tike, Necessitie, had not kickt me out of Towne, and thrust me out by head and shoulders, I should neuer while I liu'd, of mine owne ac∣cord, * 1.53 haue gone from thence. And this thou maist as certainly beleeue of me, as of any one Article of thy Creed. For I had now well taken salt, and was throughly seasoned, and had sounded that Citie to the very bottome, yet I know not, how my minde might haue altered, and what I should haue done hereafter. For in conclusion, todo lo nueuo, aplaze: See what is newest, that we still like best. This rule, holding more especially in such as I was, who had * 1.54 spiritum ambulatorium, a wandring humour of mine owne, and was a great lo∣uer of nouelties. But then I was of that opinion, for those many reasons I had on my side. For it was my hap to come thither, when they were full of their sports and pastimes; and other young fellowes of the same yeeres with my selfe, led me to these their delightfull pleasures along with them from house to * 1.55 house, from feast to feast, and from bridall to bridall.

In one house you might finde them dancing; in another, playing vpon in∣struments; in a third, singing; and in a fourth, making merry with their friends. All was delight, and more and more delight still; one sets vp his rest at Primera, another vyes his game at Tic-Tack: some at one game, some at ano∣ther. In a word, in all places of the Citie wheresoeuer we came, we met with nothing, but laudable exercises, and honest recreations. There might a man see many young gallants, pompous in apparell, and richly clad, and many faire Ladies, and hansome Gentlewomen, who wanted no setting forth for curious and costly dressings, with whom these young blouds did dance. Whose tyres on their heads were so daintily adorned, their gownes on their backs so richly imbroydered, and their Chapine•…•… •…•…o their feet, so plated with siluer, and beset * 1.56 with pretious stones, that they did rauish both the eyes, and the soules of as many as did looke vpon them. I leaue it therefore to thee to consider, what kinde of dressings those were, that had so much power to moue the beholders. See how I haue seasoned this dish, that I may not disgrace the goodnesse of the meat. Tell me; hath it not a good rellish? is it not pleasing to thy palate? Though I goe not into a Tauerne to drinke, f 1.57 yet I take delight to talke of it, and to looke vpon it, and to peepe in at the doore as I passe by, and sometimes slip in, to make my selfe merry. No man is wise on horsebacke; much lesse, in the vnbridled yeeres of his youth. In a word, I was young. And as old age is cold, and dry, so on the contrary, youth, is hot, and moyst. Youth, hath strength, and old age, wisdome. Thus are these gifts diuided, and yet euery one hath that which is fit, and necessarie for him. And though for the most part, we see that all old men turne to be young, if not (as we say) become children againe; yet

it were a wonder, to see young men grow old. And I say againe, it were as great a wonder, to see a young man in yeares, to be an old man in discretion, as to see a Peare tree, to beare fruits in the heart of winter. But I speake this in Spanish, that some of other Countries, whom I know, may not finde fault with * 1.58 me. And I would haue all men take notice, that I alwayes speake according to the vse and fashion of mine owne Country: for I doe not know after what manner others dance in theirs.

But that I may returne to my former discourse; it grieued me very much to leaue Florence, (yet did it much concerne me to be gone) flying as it were from my selfe, not knowing to what end, nor whither to goe; nor yet knew I, why I should stay any longer there, vnlesse it were to spend that poore little store of money, that I had yet left me, and that chaine, which the Lord Embassador my master, gaue me at my farewell as a token of his loue, and to thinke vpon him, as oft as I chanc'd to cast mine eyes vpon 〈◊〉〈◊〉 And I must truly confesse vnto you, that he was neuer out of my minde, •…•…ensoeuer I did thinke vpon that * 1.59 houre, wherein I must ere long be forced to•…•…rne it into money. And as it was giuen me with a great deale of loue, so did it exceedingly grieue me that I must shortly part so vnkindly with it. I would, if I could, haue kept it rather then my life, and neuer haue parted from it; but there are some such occasions, wherein parents may impawne their owne children. Patience, (quoth I to my selfe) I will doe the best I can; and more, I can not. And therefore (my ma∣sters) I pray pardon me; for he, that hath no other meanes to helpe him-selfe, and is constrained thereunto out of meere necessitie, is driuen many times to commit many a greater error, and that shall proue farre more preiudiciall and hartfull. I had a great wrestling and strugling with my selfe; and my thoughts had a cruell sharpe warre with themselues, as well touching this, as other the like businesses. I considered with my selfe, what would now become of me, and what course I were best to take, for to supply and releeue my wants. God helpe me; How heauy is the heart, when the g 1.60 purse is light! And therefore we say; * 1.61 A heauy purse, makes a light heart. What little comfort doe we take in the world? And how faint and feeble, are the pleasures of this life to him, whose purse strings are too weake? And more particularly, to one that is in a strange Country, and that hath put on a resolution with him-selfe to forget his lewd courses, and not to liue, as he had done, by tricks and by shifts; yet not know∣ing how to gaine a penny, and wanting the meanes, how to come by money; hauing no neere acquaintance with any, to presume of such kindnesse from them, being farre from my friends, and farther from any the least intention or purpose to cheat or cozen any man. For, if I would haue runne that course, and set my minde vnto it, I needed not to haue taken such a deale of care and trou∣ble in the businesse. For I had my 〈◊〉〈◊〉 about me; and a hand, that was able to finde me worke all the yeare long; I could not want, (if I listed my selfe) to picke out a liuing where-soeuer I should come. For (thanks be to God for it) what I had once learned, it was mine owne for euer: I neuer lost it, if I once had it. Only, I might at first be a little to seeke, for want of vse, but the tooles of my trade were neuer out of my hand, but alwayes carried them with me, whither-soeuer I went. I departed from Rome with a full purpose to become an honest man; and fall backe, fall edge, come good, or come bad, all welcome, as it pleas'd God; for I had a great minde to continue these my good desires, and t•…•…remaine firme in this so honest a resolution. But seeing, that Hell is full of these, what good could my holy deliberations doe me, if I did not put them in execution? For f•…•… without workes, is but a dead faith.

Now, I had gotten me a man to waite vpon me; Where by the way, I pray * 1.62 let me aske you, what a good direction this was, to addresse me to a Master? What a Letter of recommendation to bee receiued into seruice? I had beene now accustomed to command; how would you then, that I should submit my

selfe to obey? I verily thought with my selfe (as perhaps many moe doe, for I doe not thinke that I am the onely man of that minde in the world) that I * 1.63 should haue beene an honest man, if answerable to that glorious show that I made, and the height whereat I liu'd, I had had wherewithall to spend accor∣dingly, and that I had not wanted meanes to vphold this great spirit of mine, but had had money enough to maintaine and inlarge my generous disposition. But the summes (I feare me) which must haue seru'd to supply my wants, must miraculously by some holy Saint or other, be subministred vnto mee: for no other hand could doe it. And certainly, I know not how it then fell out, that I was so honest, as I was; I verily beleeue, that this also was a Miracle, conside∣ring the condition of that present time, and mine owne euill inclination. I was * 1.64 young, left to liue at mine own liberty, suffered to do what I list, and rather ac∣customed to seeke occasions, to doe then to shunne ill; and I could hardly by the helpe of my good desires, eith•…•… •…•…ose, or lay aside my bad conditions.

Such a Lady, or such a Gentlewoman saith (which is their ordinary kind of language) I would faine be a good woman, I desire to lead an honest life, as no woman more, if that necessity did not force me to doe that, which I doe. In∣deed Madame, by your leaue, your Ladyship lyes. For, that you doe ill, it is onely, because you are willing to doe ill. O what a poore excuse is this? I con∣fesse that I offend thus and thus, but it is against my will; for I am not of my selfe giuen to such, or such a sinne, nor haue any inclination thereunto in the world. In good faith it is otherwise, for I reade it in your eyes. And they con∣senting vnto sinne, who can be said to be the cause thereof, but your selues? For if you would but turne your eyes from your windowes, and throw them on your distaffe, or your cushionet, certainly necessity would not constraine you to ill. Womens hands are not of that length, nor so quicke and so nimble, that they should sodainly reach so farre, as to finde you food, apparell, and house-rent: yet are they long enough, to put themselues forth to seruice; and they that set you a worke, will bestow house-roome on you, and put meate in your mouthes, and money in your purse. But I expect you should say vnto me; Thou, that art a man, giu'st me this counsaile; Thou art loath to serue thy selfe, and yet thou wouldst haue me to serue, that am a woman? Indeed, thou hast hit the nayle on the head; And this is that, which I say; That your Mi∣strisse-ship, and I, and this, or that other woman (bee shee what shee will) are all of vs vnwilling to doe our selues good. We will put to no helping hand of our owne, but would, that what we stand in need of, should be put into our mouthes, and that it should miraculously be ministred vnto vs.

Twenty yeares of age, is a terrible beast: O how headstrong, and how wild * 1.65 it is. There is no battaile so bloody, no skirmish so hot, and so hard to come off cleare, as that warre, which wee wage with our youth. For if it goe about to make its retreat from Vice, it hath many fierce enemies that sharply set vpon it, neuer ceasing to assaile it, galling it here, & wounding it there, which wil hardly bee repell'd, more hardly ouercome, by reason of those many occasions of ad∣uantage which offer them-selues; it being besides a thing proper vnto youth, to stumble, if not to fall, at euery step: Youth hath not (beleeue me) any strength in its legs, much lesse know they well how to goe. It is an vntamed beaste, it is full of fury, and voyd of patience; and if it entertaine any good mo∣tion, a hundred ill thoughts disband the same by and by, and put it to route; not giuing it so much leysure as to set foote to ground, nor to put it in the •…•…∣rop, not to seate him-selfe sure in the Saddle. Euery one cannot get vp to it; and few that can bridle this beaste. It will not be so soone ouer-mastered, as some doe thinke, nor be easily brought to goe that way as a man would haue it. I was euer, like the Hog, vp to the very eyes, nousling my selfe in the mud of vice and wickednesse, (for albeit I did not alwayes practise ill, yet I neuer lost the sight of it) and I was loath to kick and fling against it, lest by my too

much stirring, I might loosen my lading, and cause it to fall to the ground; if not spraine, and hurt my selfe.

A Bullocke, or young Steere, when he is to bee tamed, they first halter his legges, throwing him downe on the ground, then they fall a shooing of him, after that, they binde a rope or a cord to one of his hornes, which they suffer him to traile after him for some fewe daies; and when they are minded to bring his necke to the yoake, they yoake him with an old Oxe, that hath beene long vsed to the plough, and so by little and little disposing him thereunto, they * 1.66 teach him by these degrees to beginne to draw handsomely, and in the end to be as perfect as the best of them.

That young man therefore, that hath a desire to be old, let him leaue to fol∣low my steps, and let him striue to subdue his passions; let him prepare, and dispose himselfe to labour, and in dispight of his owne will, let him strongly struggle and wrastle with his idle and foolish desires, and throw them flat on their backes to the ground, that they may neuer rise vp any more to make resi∣stance against him: And when he hath thus gotten them downe vnder him, let him binde them fast with that double twisted cord of Patience, and Humi∣lity; and let him traile after him, for some certaine daies, these his strange and dangerous appetites, spending his time in vertuous exercises, and many shall not passe ouer his head, before hee be brought to bow his necke to that holy yoake of repentance; and by yoaking him-selfe with good company, hee shall quickly be inured to the plough, wherewith he shall breake vp the earth of his euill inclinations; But let no man thinke, that hee shall bee able to doe this at the first dash; and that once trying what he can doe, shall be sufficient to make him grow perfect. Some (I know) will not sticke to tell me; I would doe this, and I would doe that, my will is to it, but &c. Let him speake this to such ano∣ther * 1.67 as himselfe, and to one that is of the like quality and condition, as he is. For I know well enough already, that he is not willing to doe this, nor to doe that; For they, that are willing indeed, vse other more effectuall meanes. And nothing is hard to them, that will set them-selues hard to it. Peraduenture such a one thinkes, or expects, that God should open the heauens, and miracu∣lously strike him to the ground, as he did Saint Paul; But let him not looke to haue the like course to be taken with him; lest he be accounted a foole for his labour.

God threw him to the ground, and humbled him sufficiently, when he af∣flicted him with sicknes, when he laid troubles vpon him, and when he suffered him to be toucht in his good name; if either then, or now, thou wouldst accept of grace, while it is offered thee, thou shalt be sure to finde it. But thou wast neuer willing to entertaine these good motions, much lesse to humble thy selfe with Saint Paul, and to city out with him; Domine, quid vis, vt faciam? Lord, what wilt thou, that I doe? What is thy diuine will and pleasure? Thou wilt not like Paul be for God, and yet thou look'st that God should be for thee. And if he dealt thus with Saint Paul, it was because God knew the earnest desire that he had to know and search out the Truth: and that it was his zeale to the Law that did thus ouersway him; the current whereof being turn'd another way, he would be as feruent for the Gospell. And you can instance but in a few that haue beene saued by a bare intention, without any good worke. These •…•…o are to concurre in one, intention and action; I say, if we haue any time left * 1.68 vnto vs for action, or wherein we may doe any good worke. And then shall a •…•…me intention of amendment of life, and a hearty sorrow for our sins past, be accounted a good worke, when the night of death shall sodainly ouertake vs, and shut vs vp in darknesse. But hauing day enough to worke and labour in the Lords Uineyard, both these ought to goe together, I meane intention and action. For neither the spade alone, nor the hand alone, can digge, and dresse the ground; but hand, and spade, must both worke together.

But who hath put me into this theame? Was not I in Florence euen now to my great content? Thither doe I returne againe. I assure thee, that the more I walked vp and downe that Citie, the more desirous I was to plant there my Pillars, and not to seeke for a Plus vltrà. For it was euen as I would haue wisht it to be, all very beautifull and delightsome. And if therein resided either flat∣tery * 1.69 or enuie, I tooke no great heed thereof, but let it runne to others account, for I was none of those, that were comprehended in that Decree. I had no∣thing to doe (like Iudas) with the almes of the poore; nor could any preiudice thereby come vnto me, being that I pretended nothing in Court. And if they would any way haue holpen me, I had no need to vse them. Or had I stood in need of them, I would not haue made any vse of them; they euermore seeming vnto me the greatest meanes of mischiefe, that euer came yet within my know∣ledge. For one onely flatterer is sufficient alone of him-selfe to ouerthrow a Commonwealth, if not a whole Kingdome. Happy is that King, and fortu∣nate that Prince, whose Subiects serue him for loue, and who out of his wise∣dome leaues now and then an eare open to the peoples complaints, as also their aduice; for onely by this meanes shall he come to know truthes, whereby hee may redresse those things, that are amisse, and keepe off flatterers from abusing his eares.

There would I haue liu'd all the daies of my life, and haue past away the time, like a Duke, had I had wherewithall. But I was in a manner blowne vp, and all my money was almost spent. I need not to confirme this vnto you with an oath, for you may very well (if you will) beleeue me on my bare word. The Riuer now began to grow drie, and my store to faile me; for, Del monton que * 1.70 sacau, y no ponen, presto lo descomponen. Pull from your heap, and put nothing to it; you, or your heape (if not both) may rue it. So that my moneys still going out, and none comming in, if I should haue staid any longer there, I should quickly haue runne my-selfe out at the heeles, and it would haue beene a great disreputation for me, to haue come in a horsebacke, and to goe out a foote. I thought it good counsell to vphold mine honor, and to depart from thence, both to my credit, and content, before that being forced thereunto by neces∣sity, I should come to discouer my wants, and be bound to stay still there, for lacke of meanes to be gone. I acquainted Sayavedra with this my purpose, and plainly opened my minde vnto him; For by this time, I knew well enough, that he was likely to be my onely helpe at a pinch, my strong forte, and the onely trench whereunto I might with safety retire, and that I could not haue met with such another companion in all the world for my purpose. I went pre∣paring him by a little and a little, working and disposing him by degrees, that he might not afterwards thinke that he had seene strange visions, and vaine apparitions, and that whatsoeuer should hereafter befall me, might not seeme new vnto him, or accounted as a nouelty.

When I had thus moulded him, he said vnto me; Sir, There is one remedy, * 1.71 that offers it selfe vnto me now on the sodaine, neither chargeable, nor hard, but very easie to be effected, and that may make much for your profit. Seeing there is no remedy, but wee must be gone, it is not much materiall which gate we goe out at; for at any one of the ten, we may trauaile out on our ten toes, to goe abroad, and see the world. Let vs (if you will be rul'd by me) take the way, that leads to Bologna; for besides, that it is neere at hand, and that we shall there see that famous Vniuersity, wee may chance likewise to haue the good lucke to meere with Alexandro Bentivoglio, that Master of mine, who went away with the most part of your goods. For if we hap to find him there, (as I verily beleeue we shall,) It will be an easie matter for you to recouer your owne. For, vpon that information which was made of the theft in Siena, it is not to be doubted, that though you get not what you lost againe, yet he or his father will at least be content to giue you good satisfaction.

I tooke this to be no bad counsell, but was very well pleased therewith, not thinking on any other thing then the force of Law, and the iustnesse of my cause; and let iustice deale neuer so indirectly with me, I could not conceiue the least cause of doubt, in regard of the cleare notice I could make of the theft, which would, if not all, yet haue allotted me the greater part of my goods: per∣swading my selfe, that this party, who was principall in this theft, knowing him-selfe guilty therof, would haue come vnto me vpon his knees, desiring my pardon, and that he would voluntarily haue offered to make me amends for the wrong he had done me, and to come vpon any termes to agreement with me; as well for that his parents, and kindred in that Citie, were persons of principall note; as also, for that notwithstanding all the meanes they were able to make to bolster out the matter, yet would they neuer permit, that so foule a fact should come to publike hearing, and be iudicially tryde, nor that they, and their house, should be blotted and blurr'd with so foule a staine, and dishonour, as this could not chuse but proue, if it should once come to be ripped vp.

Will you heare a strange kinde of humour in me? you shall then know it by this. It is not long since you heard me say, what a delicate and delightsome place Florence was, and what a deale of pleasure I tooke therein. And now vpon the sudden, I was growne out of loue with it, the very name of it was growne so hatefull vnto me, that it was ready out of a loathing that I had taken to it, to turne vp my stomach. It began now (me thought) to stinke, I could not endure the sent of it; euery thing seemed so foule and so filthy to my sight, that I did now long to be gone, and till then, euery day was to me a thousand. You may see (my masters) what wonders want of money can worke! You will in a moment hate those things, which you lou'd most, when you lacke wherewith∣all to maintaine both your selues, and them. Now my minde gaue me, that * 1.72 there was not such another Citie in the world, as Bologna; wherein I should no sooner set my foot, but I should recouer my stolne wares, and haue wherewith∣all to spend, and to keepe company with your young Students, lads of the right stampe, merry greekes, much of mine owne size and marke, with whom I might play three or foure venewes, when I were so disposed, without any great disaduantage of weapon. And the dice might haply haue giuen me so lucky a chance, and haue hit so right, that I might haue had the good fortune to haue followed my studies: for that learning, which my Lord Cardinall bestowed vpon me, I had not as yet forgot it, but was very ready and perfect in all that had beene taught me. And questionlesse, with that little learning, that I then had, I might very well haue proceeded Master, and made a shift to liue by that profession, if that kinde of course had beene fitting for me, or that my selfe had beene willing to apply my minde hereunto.

But stay a while Guzman, be not thou too hastie: Wilt thou offer to traile a gowne after thee, being so weake that thou canst scarce hale a halter at thy heeles? Hold thy hand, this is not a taske for thee to vndertake. There is no talking of commencing Doctor, till the bowe of preferment be drawne home by the strong arme of angels. What canst thou hope for then, who art so poore, that thou art scarce able to wagg the string.

I was now fully resolued to begin my iourney, and to make all the haste I could. And so in an instant I put this my intention in execution. Away goes Sayavedra, and I together, making directly for Bologna. And because I had fly∣ing thoughts in my head, I was willing to put wings to my horse: making such good speed, that we came thither that night; but slept very little, for we spent the most part of it in plotting and casting about how we should beare our selues * 1.73 in this businesse; and whilest we were discoursing to and fro, what were best to be done; Sayavedra (hauing looked well as it should seeme on his owne cards) sayes vnto me: Sir, I hold it not so fit, that I should be seene herein at all, espe∣cially now at this my first flight, but rather to lye close awhile, till we may see,

where it will be best to giue the wound; and when wee shall come to know, where the game lies, and that there is any hope of doing good, then let vs let flie, and strike it dead. For if Alexandro be in the towne, and should know that I am here, (which he cannot choose, if I stir abroad, being so well knowne as I am,) he will question me, wherefore I am come hither, and with whom? And that knowne, he will absent him-selfe forthwith from the Citie, and so we shall be defeated of our purpose. Or if he chance but to suspect, that I had a finger in this businesse, and that I was the cause of this iourney, and his shame, there is no way but one with me, he will surely kill me; so that neither of these two will aduantage vs any thing, nor is fitting for vs to be aduentured on. Be∣sides, if this web must come to be wouen in the Loome of Iustice, I must bee the master-thred to be wrought vpon, there is no auoyding of it: And there∣fore you haue no reason to suffer me (considering that I can stand you in no stead, if I be taken and clapt by the heeles) to receiue any farther harme, then what I haue already endured. The best course then to be taken, I conceiue to be this; That to morrow morning you make inquirie after him, and by one meanes or other (with the best secresie you can) seeke first to know him, and to take particular notice of his person; That done, wee will consult thereof afresh, and gouerne our selues therein, according as occasion and time shall serue.

I did not like amisse of this, me thought it was good wholesome counsell. Well; as he had aduised me I set my selfe to worke, I walkt vp and downe the Towne, and after the treading of some few steps, not being troubled (as fortune would haue it) to tyre out my legs in the search of him, it was my good hap to haue him pointed out vnto me with the finger, telling me; f 1.74 Loe, that's the man. Which direction I needed not, for the cloathes on his backe did speake what he was, and without others teaching, could tell me, This is Alexandro. He was standing amongst other young men at the Church doore; nor doe I beleeue, that his deuotion was such, as to goe in and out to heare Masse, but I was rather of opinion, that hee stood there registring those that went in, offering great scandall, but showing small respect, to that sacred place. g 1.75 It is a foule shame, that this is so commonly vsed as it is in most parts of the Christian world. I know what I speake; Would to God I knew as well how to reforme this abuse. Are there not store of streets, and other publike places in the towne, for to make loue in, which wee scandall too much already with our lewd steps, wanton lookes, dishonest signes, and tokens, and perhaps other things of a worse con∣dition, to intimate our loose and lustfull affections, but that wee must wrong * 1.76 Gods holy Temple with this our vnciuill and beastly behauiour.

But let vs proceed in our former argument, that wee may not leape from a Masse, into a Sermon. It seemed vnto me, that hee stood not there with any great deuotion, for he talkt h 1.77 apace with his hand, and now and then he would breake out in a loud laughter. He had at that time a doublet of mine on his backe of cloath of siluer, and a ierkin drest with Amber, and other rich per∣fumes, cut and slasht cleane through, and lined with the same cloath of siluer, sutable to the doublet, and richly laid with lace after the Seuillian fashion, and eight buttons of gold wrought vpon Amber, to make it sit the closer to the collar, all which a Gentleman of Naples presented mee withall, for a certaine dispatch that I had procured for him, by soliciting his businesse with my Lord Embassador.

When I came to know mine owne, and saw another man weare it before my face, I could haue found in my heart to haue stab'd him, and to haue pre∣sently stript him of it, so did it grieue and vexe the very soule of me, that such deare pledges as these of my friends loue vnto me, should thus fore against my will, be in another mans possession. My blood rose against him, and I was of∣ten tempted to haue gone and stab'd him, but I held my hand, and said with

my selfe; No Guzman, no; This must not be so; Better it were, that this thy thiefe, should be conuerted, and liue. For if thou let him liue, he may chance to pay thee; but if thou kill him, thou art sure to pay for him. And of the two, it is better to take, then to giue. And safer it is for thee, that others should be indebted to thee, then thou indebted to others. And it will bee more for * 1.78 thy ease, and more easily compast, to get in a i 1.79 debt, then to pay a debt. Make not thy selfe the defendant, if thou maist be the plaintiffe. Goe on faire and soft∣ly, be not so hasty, for there is no body that runs after vs. And if there be any order or Law in gaming, and if the dice runne true, if the cards bee not packt, but are well shuffled and cut, and that there be faire play, vnlesse the diuell be in it, or my lucke exceeding bad, all the world cannot winne the game from me. For I haue cards enough in mine owne hand to carry it. We are sure the bird cannot now get from vs; which is that which importeth vs most. Let vs not feare the Chase, but hunt liuely, for the Buls are safe enough; they cannot escape vs. He is taken in the manner, the theft found about him, hee cannot possibly deny it. I sweare I will put him to his necke-verse, and see how well or ill he will come off, and make him to confesse vpon the Racke, who put him into those fine cloathes, or in what Fayre or Market he bought them. * 1.80

Hauing consulted thus with my selfe, I got me home to my lodging, ac∣quainting Sayavedra with what I had seene. Hee had prouided me my dinner ready for me, and had set it downe on the table, as soone as he saw I was come; And when we had din'd, we pitcht the hay wherewith we were to catch this Cony. We discoursed one while of this course, another while of that, many designes we had, many meanes propounded to come by our owne; but Saya∣vedra (poore man) did stagger at them, and was loath to giue way vnto them: He repented him now of the counsell hee had giuen me, fearing therein his own danger. But we concluded in the end, that of all other meanes, Peace (if we could draw him to some reasonable composition) were the best. For it is better to haue one bird in the hand, then two in the k 1.81 bush. And a bad l 1.82 Accord, is better then a good Plea: Lesse harme euer comming of agreeing, then suing. So that at last, we grew to this conclusion, that I, by a third person, should vse some meanes, to haue his father talkt withall, making him acquainted with the businesse, and the whole manner how it was carried, giuing him a large ac∣count of euery particular thing, remitting my selfe to his good will and plea∣sure, how he in his owne discretion should thinke meet I deseru'd to be dealt withall, and that he would not enforce mee (considering my faire manner of proceeding with him) to recouer mine owne by rigour of Law, being there * 1.83 was Euidentia facti; besides many other pregnant proofes to be produced, that these goods were mine. And so I did, as we had deuised; hauing made choice of a discreet person, who should secretly and with fitting language, deliuer thus much vnto him. But because Power is commonly accompanied with Pride, and Pride is still attended with Tyranny, he was so farre from compounding the businesse, that he made little reckoning of it, taking it ill at his hands that trea∣ted with him about it, wishing him that hee should speake no more of it, dee∣ming it as an affront done vnto his honour, and a meere defamation. He feigned him-selfe to be greatly wronged, though he knew well enough that I was he, that was iniur'd; and without giuing vs either good hopes, or good words, he dispatcht my messenger.

When I receiu'd this answer, I hatched a thousand euill imaginations in my heart. But because I would not returne euill for euill, I resolued to talke with some one Lawyer or other of that Vniuersity, that should be recommended vn∣to me for the nimblenesse of his wit, and soundnesse of iudgement; to whom I opening my case (fearing the successe thereof, for that my aduersaries father was so powerfull) might craue his opinion, and that hee would assist me with his best aduice and counsell, for the better prosecuting of his businesse. Hee

plainly told me; Sir, it is well enough knowne in this Towne, what manner of man Alexandro is, as also his lewd and idle courses, which in some other place, would be a sufficient information against him. Besides, there is so much truth in that, which you vrge against him, that it is manifestly apparant to as many as know him, or shall heare you. You haue right on your side, a iust and a good cause, and therefore I would aduise you to frame an information against him, and to desire iustice. All Bologna, hath taken notice already of this theft of his; for, as soone as he came hither with it, it was presently knowne, that these clothes were none of his owne; as well, because he caused them to be altred, and fitted to his owne bodie; as also, for that he carried hence with him no lambes to sell, nor any other kinde of merchandize, whereby he should make so rich a returne. Besides, another companion of his, in whom he put much trust, stole a good part of these goods from him, that he might likewise gaine thereby a part of his Pardons, & Indulgences. You see now, what course you must be faine to take, what lyes in me to releeue you, you may be assured of the best furtherance and the best counsell that I can giue you, for the coun∣tenancing of this your cause.

Whereupon, I being very desirous, that a bill should be exhibited against him, he presently (according to my information) drew one out, which I forth∣with presented to the Auditore del Torrone, who is there the Iudge in all Cau∣ses Criminall. But, be it as it may be, whether it were immediatly from the Iudge him-selfe, or from the Notarie, I know not which, nor from whence, nor how it came to passe, but sure I am, that this businesse of mine was instantly ouer all the Towne, and particular notice was giuen thereof vnto Alexandro's father. And for that he was a man of authoritie in that Towne, and carried a great hand there amongst them, he hyes him in all haste to the Iudge, and there accusing me for this my bold attempt, and inconsiderate rashnesse, (as it pleased him to terme it) he formed a complaint against me, that I had defa∣med, and dishonoured his house, and that therefore he was of purpose come vnto him to desire his lawfull fauour, and that he would be pleased to doe him iustice, to the end that I might be seuerely punished for this my presumption. I know not how, but the matter was so carried betweene them, that it had beene better for me, to haue held my peace. He was a powerfull man in that Citie, and the Iudge (it seemed) was very willing to pleasure him. I began now to feare, that occasions of quarrell would be pickt against me; mole-hils made mountaines; and this my losse, turne to my greater losse; making my vn∣doing, an occasion of my farther vndoing. For Loue, Interest, and Hatred, are euer maine enemies to the Truth. And in many places, As a man is befriended, * 1.84 so his Cause is ended. But he that hath both money and friends, is sure to worke out his ends. Money is of no great thicknesse, yet it dulls the double * 1.85 edg'd sword of iustice, if it but once offer to touch it. Gold, is a heauy mettall; and that makes the ballance of Iustice so light. I did spit as it were against heauen, the driuell whereof fell vpon my owne face; I shot my arrowes vp in∣to the ayre, and they returned backe againe vpon mine owne bosome; the in∣nocent paying for the m 1.86 nocent; and the iust, for the vniust. * 1.87

Much n 1.88 money, does much harme; But much more, the euill intention of an euill man. And therefore where an ill-minded man, and a great masse of money meet together and shake hands, there is much need of helpe from heauen, to free an innocent soule out of their cruell clawes. Good Lord deli∣uer vs from out their clutches, for they are more griping and tyrannous, then those of Tygers, or of Lyons. Their will is a law; what-soeuer they desire, that they doe; right (when they lift) shall be wrong; and wrong, right: And no man must controll them for it; nor dare to say, blacke is their eye; lest he chance to lose both his owne, for prying too neere into the secrets of these earthly gods. O that there were men of that goodnesse and courage, that would

not sticke to tell them, and plainly giue them to vnderstand; that the money, they thus vnlawfully take, shall last with them but a while; but the fire, where∣with they shall be tormented for it, shall continue for euer.

The Iudge did limit me a prefixed time for my proofes, but so short, that it was not possible for me to make my information according to that scantling. In this you may see the iniustice that he did me. Who did euer till now know a Iudge restraine the Plaintiffe of lawfull time to make his proofes, as he did me, especially when I did alleage for my selfe, that the information was to come from Siena, where the theft was committed, whence I was to procure it, for otherwise I could not haue it. But to alleage this, or not alleage it, all was one. I must be content, will I, nill I, to sit downe with this losse. There was no fence for it. And to this purpose, before I passe any farther, I will tell you what hap∣ned in a little Village of Andaluzia.

There was a certaine sessing to be set in a ratable proportion, vpon the * 1.89 Towne-dwellers, and borderers there-about, for some publike peece of worke, that was to goe in hand; and the Collectors that were appointed to gather the money, had put into their rolle (to contribute thereunto) a Gentleman of as ancient a house, as any in those parts; who taking himselfe therein to be great∣ly wronged, made his complaint against the collectors. But for all that, they did not strike his name out of the rolle. Now, when the time was come for the levying of these moneyes, they went vnto this Gentleman to demand so much of him, as he was rated at in their note; He refused to pay it. Whereupon they distrained on his goods, and paid themselues. The Gentleman being much offended with this their proceeding, goes forthwith to his Lawyer, asks his counsell, who (in conclusion) drawes me a petition for him, grounded vpon all both Law, and Reason, wherein he layes open his ancient Gentry, and the noblenesse of his House, and that in regard thereof he was priuiledged from all manner of sessings, and such other the like payments, and that therefore he did humbly petition the Court, that they would be pleased to giue present order, that what the Collectors had forcibly taken from him, might againe be restored, and be deliuered backe vnto him, as in all equitie it ought. When this petition was by them deliuered vnto the Alcalde, hauing read it, and heard what they could say for themselues, he called to the Register, and said vnto him; Mark well, what I shal say vnto you, & see you set it down in the very same words, as I shall deliuer it vnto you. This Petitioner (then said he) as he is a Gentleman, I will by no meanes debarre him of his priuilege, God forbid I should denie him his iust request; but as he is a poore man, his House growne now to decay, and himselfe (as you see) in want, I hold it very fit, that he pay as others doe.

That I had iustice on my side, no man doubted it; it was so publike a thing, that all the world tooke notice of it. But I was poore and needy, and therefore it was fit I should pay for all, and there was no reason (in that respect) that they should doe mee iustice. I presently smelt a rat; I saw this was a bad signe, and was shrewdly afraid, that all my labour would be lost. But I could not for all this perswade my selfe, nor could it sincke into my head, that I should be that man, or whom it is said by way of prouerbe; Paçiente, y apaleado: That I must goe away with the wrong, and the blowes too. First be made cuckold, and af∣terwards * 1.90 knockt for my prating. Well; such was my hard fortune, that being * 1.91 not able to bring in my proofes in so short a time, it so fell out with me, that my Bill of Complaints, was throwne out of the Court, and held as a thing of no validitie or force in Law, and that of the aduerse part, tooke place against me; declaring there in Court, that I by this my petition, had shamed an infamous L•…•…bell against his sonne, by meanes whereof his House, and h•…•… honour was much defamed; adding and interferting, in maiorem cautelam, I know not what a world of words, and what strange and intricate termes. That I did sp•…•…te, in∣dubitatè,

&c. That I did it wittingly and willingly, impudently and malitiously, aggrauating the matter against me with all the odious termes they could de∣uise, that if I should set them downe one by one, they would take vp a whole sheet of paper. Alleaging farther against me, that forasmuch as his sonne, was a quiet, honest, and peaceable Gentleman, and of a good both report, and life, I did deserue I know not what exemplarie punishment, hanging, burning, and drowning, all was too little, that I knew not what to make of it, nor what a Gods name, they would doe with me. Which things, w•…•…n they were read vnto me, I said to my selfe; These men may haue healthy bodies, but I am sure they haue sicke soules; They may haue good purses, but I finde (to my cost) they haue bad consciences. I was carelesse, (as one that was confident of a good cause) I neuer shrunke aside, and as I was afterwards going about my bu∣sinesse, that my sute might not fall, for want of following, I was taken vp in the midst of the street by an Arrest, and presently carried away to prison, without * 1.92 any other information against me, saue only the putting vp of my petition, and acknowledging it to be mine.

There is no sword, that hath so keene and sharpe an edge, as Calumnie, and false Accusation: and then cuts deepest, when it is in the hand of a tyrannous Iudge; whose force and power is such, that it is able to ouerthrow, and lay le∣uell with the ground, the best grounded Iustice that is, though it haue neuer so sure, neuer so strong a foundation. Which it doth then most, and most ea∣sily, when a poore mans cause comes in his way, who suspects (poore harme∣lesse soule) nothing lesse, then to receiue hurt from him, to whom he flyes for helpe. My businesse was plaine, no tricks, no giggs in it, I did only set downe the naked truth, but they made it I know not how, by their quillets and deui∣ces, knotty and vneuen, though there was not a man, neither within, nor without the Towne, that did not know, all was true, that I had deliuered; and all this did plainly appeare to the Iudge to be so, and that I had sufficient information.

All this is very good; yet for all this (goodman Guzman) giue me leaue to tell you, that you are a goose-cap. Thou art poore, thou wantest fauour, and * 1.93 friends; and therefore art neither to be heard, nor beleeu'd. These are not Cases, that are to be brought before the Tribunals of men; but when thou hast occasion to haue thy cause try de, goe get thee to God, petition him, where the truth shall appeare face to face, without any need of the fauour of thy friend, nor an Aduocate to plead thy cause, nor a Register to record it, nor a Iudge to wrest it. But here they made a sport of Iustice, and like Iuglers plaid legger∣demaine with me. They punisht me, as an vnmannerly man of my tongue, a lyar, and a lewd companion. I had spent my moneyes, lost my goods, put in prison, gyves clapt on my legs, treated with euill language, vpbraiding mee with many foule and vnciuill reproches, vnworthy my person, without suffe∣ring me to open my mouth in mine owne defence. And when I would haue answered their obiections, and giuen them satisfaction by writing, when they saw how the world went with me, my Proctor forsooke me, my Solicitor would not come at me, my Aduocate refused to plead for me, so that I only now remained in the power of the publike Notarie. The only comfort that I had, was the generall voice of my wrong, comforting me, that that terrible and fearefull day, would one day come, that the powerfull shall for all his power, be condemned to Hell, and that there, your potentes, potenter punientur, your mighty men shall be mightily punished; for that they are accursed of God for peruerting of Iustice. And that which he shall leaue behinde him, shall not continue to the third heyre, though he tye his land neuer so fast, nor make ne∣uer so strong a conueyance, that it shall not goe from the house: For he cannot (though h•…•… would neuer so faine) tye the inclinations of those that are to suc∣ceed him; nor is there any preuention, that he can vse, of that force as the least

haire of his head, to make any resistance against Gods diuine will and pleasure. And it is to be beleeued as an article of thy faith, that their lands and estates must be spent and consumed, for that they are the grindings of the face of the poore, vngodly gaine, the bloud of the innocent, gotten in rage, and maintai∣ned with lyes.

But thou wilt say vnto me; Trust them with so much more, till that day come, and you shall see whether they will make any bones of either taking the one, or thinking on the other. Where-unto I answer, that how sleight a reckoning soeuer thou mak'st of it, and that it seemes so long a day to thee, that it will neuer come, I doe not know what these kinde of men may thinke of it; but I know very well, that it will come, and that quickly, and sooner perhaps then thou art aware. And then it shall seeme so short vnto thee, that thou wilt say; I am but newly come forth with my feet from out my bed, and the night is already come, and I must shut vp my eyes in darknesse.

But perhaps, thou wilt reply vnto me; I pray how cam'st thou by so many good suits of clothes, so much money, and other things of value? Thou didst not get them by the spade, nor the plough, thou didst not digge, nor delue for them. What didst thou make in that street, vpon that occasion and accident you wot of, when you seru'd your Master the French Embassador? Is this (quoth I) the rod, you seeke to beat me withall? Thou art caught in thine owne-trap; thine owne words doe condemne thee. For thou would'st liken these goods of mine, to those that are gotten by lewd women, whereas thou doest not, but oughtest to vnderstand, that their gaine is lawfull, though the act be vnlawfull; and thou art in conscience bound to recompence her, if thou hast had thy desire of her, and didst make vse of her for thine owne interest. Besides, the case is not alike. For it is publikely knowne to all the world; that though a corrupt Iudge commit neuer so many mischiefes, neuer so vniustly put men to death, neuer so wrongfully rob a man of his goods, and vndoe him by his partiall and corrupt dealing, thou shalt haue little or no remedie against him, nor canst thou take that from him, which he hath stolne from others. For thou art not his competent Iudge, nor of that power as to adiudge against his will that to others, which he hath taken from them. For though it be true, that he is culpable therein towards others; thou shalt be sure to be found cul∣pable towards him. And howsoeuer he scape, thou shalt be sure to smart for it. Beleeue me, I tell thee what is true, nay, I tell thee truth it selfe; truth vpon truth.

But what good does this doe me? My name is Pero Garzia, I am a kinde of Tom-Tell-Troth. A free Aruntius, that must vtter my minde plainly, though perhaps I may chance to smart for it. If we should all striue to heare truth, and to make satisfaction for those wrongs we haue done, we should see the Hospi∣tals to be quickly fill'd. And now in good sooth, I bethinke my selfe, that it is better to enter into Heauen with one eye, then into Hell with two. And that S. Bartholmew, had rather haue his skin pull'd ouer his eares, then to sleepe (as they say) in a whole skin, and to goe therewith to eternall torment. And that S. Lawrence made the better choise, when he chose rather to be burned here, then there. But (alas) we cannot be all S. Bartholmewes, nor S. Lawrences, so as we be saued, that is sufficient. For mine owne part, I should be glad of the like good fortune. For he shall performe no small peece of worke, that shall worke out his saluation. But to be saued, many things are required. And it shall be impossible for thee to be saued, by keeping those goods in thy hands which thou hast stolne, when as thou art able (if thou wilt) to make restitution. Whichthou art loth to do, or dost not at al, that thou maist leaue it to they heires, dis-inheriting those, that are the true owners thereof: And therefore doe not thou seeke to trouble either thy selfe, or vs, to excuse these thy robberies and vniust actions, by cunning shifts, to cozen thine owne soule, and by lessening

and mincing of them, as though they were matters of nothing, and therefore need not much to trouble thy conscience; for this that I deliuer vnto thee is the Catholike faith; and those other thy tricks and deuices, the sleights and subtleties of Satan. Miserable, and most wretched is that man, who for the maintaining of his pride and pompe in the world, and that he may leaue either his children, or his nephewes great titles, and rich reuenues, hath heaped vp riches by indirect meanes, and hath filled his house vp to the top with ill∣gotten gaine, contenting himselfe, so as he may leaue a name here behinde him vpon earth, to leaue his soule, to liue hereafter for euer in hell. These (I assure you) are no iesting matters, they are not to be made sport withall; for ere long, thou (to thine owne cost) shalt finde that to be too true, which I now tell thee. I call thee thine owne selfe, to be a witnesse of that which I haue said; I desire no other. And let me tell thee withall; That thou thy selfe doest not know when thy dayes shall haue an end, or whether thou shalt haue so much time of life lent thee, as to reade out these good lessons, which I reade vnto thee, howsoeuer foolish they may seeme vnto thee. But in that other world, thou wilt be of another minde. Nor doe not thou flatter thy selfe, That thou hast built such a Chappell, and maintainest so many Chaplaines to pray for thy soule, but at mine, and other mens cost, stripping one of his coat, another of his cloake, where-vnto thou hadst no right in the world. For Masses (though S. Gregorie himselfe should say them) cannot benefit the damned, there is no redemption, when the sentence is once past.

O good God! When shall I make an end of troubling thee with these, and the like discourses? For I know thou doest not looke for these Sermons from me, nor any other kinde of wholsome doctrine, but expectest only such things, as may serue to entertaine the time, or to bring thee asleepe. I doe not know how to excuse this terrible temptation, that I haue to talke in this fashion, saue only by telling thee, that it is with me, as it is with drunkards, who no sooner get a penny, but they goe, and spend it at the Tauerne.

There is not any p 1.94 shauings, of mettall, stone, or wood, that I can meet with∣all, good or bad, one amongst another, but that I seeke to make some vse of it, and studie to serue my selfe with it, only that I may the better serue thee. And if that which I haue said, seeme vnto thee to be well said, it is well that I haue said it: but if it seeme ill vnto thee, reade it not ouer any more, nor goe therein a iot farther. For it is all q 1.95 mountaynous matter, rough and craggy, wherein perhaps, thou shalt meet with more paine, then profit, yet doe thou but write the like, and I shall patiently endure whatsoeuer thou shalt say. But I will con∣clude this Chapter with telling thee; That when misfortune shall follow a man, no diligence, nor good counsell shall auaile him; but shall, where hee thinks to gather wooll, goe away with his fleece shorne.

CHAP. III.

Guzman de Alfarache, discourseth on the iniustice, which some Iudges doe, blinded by gaine, or by passion.

I Came out of prison, as out of a prison. I need not to in∣deare it more vnto you. For, the least I can say of it, is; That it is a true and liuely picture of Hell it selfe. I got forth, out of a desire that I had to enioy my former li∣bertie; and had I not (thinke you) great cause to desire it? For he, whom they had so vniustly bereaued of it, had good cause to feare greater dangers to ensue. For if so iust and so faire a businesse, as this was, did fadge so ill with me at the first, and that my Aduersarie had the better of the day of me, when I thought my selfe surest of the victorie; I might very well, and with a

great deale of reason perswade my selfe, that in negotiating the rest, I should finde much difficultie. Perhaps these men thinke, that God sleepeth. But doe not withall consider, that euen those, who had no knowledge of him, both did, and doe feare him.

Aesope asking Chilo, what God did: How he spent his time: And in what he did busie and imploy himselfe: Told him; In exalting the humble, and in * 1.96 bringing downe the proud. I am a sinfull man, a lewd liuer, and a naughty fellow; and sithence they did inflict punishment vpon mee, sure I must be in some fault. For it is not to be supposed, that an honourable Iudge, one that professes knowledge, and holinesse of life, will be wonne either by fauour, by gifts, or by feare, to peruert the course of Iustice, or to lay so heauy a burthen on his tender conscience. Especially considering with them-selues; That euery man shall be rewarded according to his workes. But let them goe as they are. For the Iudges of the earth must be iudged; and therefore I will not iudge them, nor grinde them any more with this stone. I had now beene taught ex∣perience to my cost, and sufficiently beaten with mine owne rod, insomuch that hauing beene once scalded with hot water, I was now afraid of cold. That from that day forward, I would neither passe by the Tyrrone, which was the place of Iustice, nor by the prison, nor scarce come within foure streets where they were. Not so much for my imprisonment, but for the wrong I receiued therein, contrary to all Law, and reason. I did not see a hackney-man with a wand in his hand, nor a Carrier with a cudgell vnder his arme, but I presently thought vpon the a 1.97 Vare, or rod of Iustice. Euer after I resolued with my selfe, rather to sit downe with losse, then to goe to tryall of Law; at least to vse all the meanes that I could to the contrary, till I saw there was no other reme∣die, being compelled thereunto rather by force, then necessitie. The reason mouing me there-unto, is that counsell which I gaue another in the time of my imprisonment.

There was a certaine fellow brought to prison, for that he had bought a mandillion, which they said, was stolne, the owner whereof was my very good friend. Who told me, that albeit he knew, that the partie imprisoned, was a person not to be suspected to be consenting to any such base kinde of pilfrings, yet at least, he would make him, to bring forth him, that sold it him; for when that mandillion was stolne, be lost many other things with it, and therefore, though he might haue his mandillion restored vnto him, he would not rest so contented, but would either lose it, or recouer the rest.

I told him; Sir, you are my friend; The Law is costly, and therefore let me aduise you not to enter into it; you are fairely offered, and therefore (if you be wise) take your mandillion, lest you spend your cloake, to recouer your coat; * 1.98 you will get nothing in the end by the bargaine; clo•…•…ke, and coat, and what∣soeuer else you pretend, will goe all away in fees, so that the Lawyer at last will haue all, and your selfe nothing. He would not be ruled, and being (as all selfe-will'd men are) strongly wedded to his owne opinion, he flarly told me he would goe to a tryall with him, and see what would come of it. For he assured himselfe, that he had a great deale of reason on his side, and that his Proctor, and his Aduocate had told him, that he needed not to doubt of his cause, and that it would surely passe on his side. In conclusion, he had spent some fifteene dayes in following the sute against him; in all which time there was no fault to be found against the prisoner; but prou'd himselfe in the end to be an honest man; whereupon, he was presently freed out of prison; my friend perceiuing at length, how he had play'd the foole, repented himselfe of the lost time and charges, which he had spent in the sute. So that he was forced to sell his cloake, & was yet neuer a whit neerer the recouerie of his mandillion; & I doubt not, but the Lawyers stript him to the very shut, before they had done with him.

Let those therefore, that can excuse it, leaue off to goe to Law; for your

Law-sutes, are like vnto your Mats; whereunto, they that make them, goe adding one by one, rush to rush, and neuer make an end, till they cut them off, * 1.99 or cleane rid their hands of them.

Law-sutes, belong properly to great persons, and for great and important * 1.100 causes; for they haue wherewithall to hold plea, and are able to maintaine it. To these, the doores are set wide open, they are vsherd in by the officers of the Court, all shew respect vnto them •…•…d if they spend their money, they haue money to spend. But as for thee, and me, we must for the recouering of fiue Royals, spend fifteene, and lose a hundred more in the losse of our time, besides a thousand troubles, and as many enemies, which we shall get thereby. And worse will it goe with vs, if we shall chance to goe to Law with one, that is mightier then our selues; for, that a poore man, should goe to Law with a rich man, is all one, as if hee should offer to wrestle and try his strength with a Lyon, or a Beare. It is true, some such there haue beene, that haue giuen them the foyle, and sometimes quite ouerthrowne them, but this hath seldome happened, and when it doth, it is held so strange a thing, that it is accounted as a wonder, or some rare miracle. Those iestes are vnsauory b 1.101, that turne to a * 1.102 mans hurt. It is no sporting with edge tooles. Doest thou not see, and know, that these kinde of men, will make the Sunne to shine at midnight? And that they cast out deuils in the name of Belzebub? But as for vs, poore soules, La le∣chona, nos pare gozqu•…•…s; All things goe crosse with vs; especially, in causes * 1.103 criminall, where the street of Iustice, is of that great bredth and length, where the Iudge may easily winde himselfe, whither, or which way he will, goe on this, or that side of the street, or to keepe the midle way, as hee himselfe shall haue most minde to. He can either lengthen, or shorten his arme, and reach out his hand, either to helpe thee, or to hurt thee, according as it shall haue a feeling of the businesse.

And therefore, to him, that will not wilfully cast him-selfe away, but desires * 1.104 to haue a faire end of his businesse, my aduice is; That he guild the Iudges bookes, and present the publike Notary with a siluer pen; So may he quiet∣ly lay him-selfe down to sleepe, and take no farther thought for the matter, nor stand in need of Doctor, or Proctor, to plead and solicite his cause. If that course were taken in many Cities of Italy, which is vsed in diuerse other Prouinces, yea also among the very Barbarians; with whom, when any one is absolued or condemned, the Iudge sets downe in his sentence vnder his owne hand, the cause that moued him to giue such sentence, and vpon what grounds hee did it; surely, there would a great deale lesse euill come of it; for, if he could show good reason for that which he did, he need not be asham'd who sees it, and the party thereby, whom it concerneth, shall remaine well satisfied; But in case he shall not haue proceeded therein according vnto Law, but hath dealt vniustly in sentencing the businesse, some other superiour Iudge shall bee appointed to rectifie that wrong, and to amend the others errour. And I knew a Iudge my * 1.105 selfe, to whom a Merchant paid a round summe to haue him passe a sentence on his side, thinking thereby so to affright the aduerse party, that despayring of any hope of good in his sute, he might draw him to what composition it plea∣sed him: Which a particular friend of his vnderstanding, came vnto the Iudge, and told him; I wonder, Sir, how you could sentence this cause in this manner, being so contrary, as it is, to all Law and reason. To whom, the Iudge answe∣red, That it made no great matter. For he was but a sub-alternall Iudge, and that there were other Iudges, that were his superiours, who might (if they would) reuerse that sentence, nor should the o•…•…her lose any thing at all by that, which he had giuen against him.

Such kind of men as these, will not stand much vpon committing these and the like errours, nor examine themselues, whether they doe well or ill in it; for with them it is not accounted a fault, though it may truly be call'd Error de

praesenti, an error in the Indicatiue Mood, a most foule fault: for in so doing, he doth rather deceiue, then iudge. But in my poore opinion, he is a foole, that may, and will not shunne Law-sutes; And in good Philosophy, Minus est dam∣•…•…, * 1.106 vnum sufferre, quam multos; It is lesse harme, to suffer at one then many mens hands. When thy aduersary does thee an iniurie, it is one alone, that does it; and by him onely dost thou suffer. But if thou goe about to reuenge it, goe which or what way soeuer thou wilt to worke, thou leap'st (as we say) out of the c 1.107 frying-pan into the fire; and secking to auoid one inconuenience, * 1.108 thou runst headlong into another; nay into many, one vpon the necke of ano∣ther. Wilt thou see the truth of this? I will show thee the wayes then, where∣in * 1.109 thou must walke.

First of all; Thou maist chance to light vpon an Alguazil (who is a common Catch-pole, or appreh ender of mens persons) a fellow, that hath neither soule, nor shame, who but the other day, was a Tauernero, a seller of wine, as his fa∣ther was before him, though happely now they keepe no shop. And if the fa∣ther were a thiefe from the beginning, the sonne is now the greater of the two. Who either bought that Vare, which he beares, to finde him meate to put in his mouth; or else hath hired it of another, as a man doth a mule; He is such a kind of poore, yet vnsatiable creature, that he must either steale, or starue; and doth therefore steale, that he may satisfie his hungry maw. And vnder pretence that he is the Kings officer, and carries the Kings white wand, or Vare in his hand, throating it out, wheresoeuer he comes, Alguazil soy, traygo la vara del Rey; I am an Alguazil, and carry the Kings staffe: he neither feares the King, nor keeps his Lawes, but both against the King, against God, & against all law, will he offer thee a hundred excesses, a hundred indignities, both in deeds and in words, that he may moue thy patience so farre, as to make thee ready to run * 1.110 out into resistance of iustice (which is the trap, he sets for thee) and bring thy offence to be criminall; and though thou didst not make any the least stirre, * 1.111 nor hadst any such meaning, yet will he enforce it against thee, and perswade others (all that he can) to beleeue it.

I knew an Alguazil in Granada, that had two teeth, that were false and coun∣terfaite, and fastned by art to those other that he had in his head. And in a cer∣taine * 1.112 broyle or quarrell that sodainly arose in the street, he comming in among them, he secretly puts his fingers into his mouth, and cunningly pulling them out, causing his gumes wherewithall to bleed; did not shame to say, that com∣ming in to make peace in the Kings name, they were there beaten out. And albert this businesse did not succeed so well with him, as he could haue wisht it, nor tooke its intended effect, for that the truth thereof came to be knowne; yet did he not giue it ouer for want of following, but vsed all the diligences he could, to possesse the Iudges with this falshood. It will lie in his hands, if thou but speake a word, or wag but a finger, to proue that thou didst giue him either ill language, or blowes; and then will hee presently deliuer thee ouer to his Corchetes e 1.113, with command to carry thee to prison. Behold now, what an hono∣rable calling this is, what a gentle craft, what honest men forsooth, are these your Corchetes, your Sergeants Yeomen, infamous Villains, Traytors, Thieues, Drunkards, shamelesse Rascals, nay impudency it selfe. Insomuch, that a witty Lackay said of himselfe, when they had angred him; He that saies the word Lackay, saies a vittailing house; hee that sayes the word Lackay, sayes a Ta∣uerne; hee that sayes the word Lackay, sayes Cloaca•…•… immunditiae, all the vncleannesse that man can imagine. And that woman, that hath taken the paines to bring forth a sonne, that proues a Lackay, there is not that wicked∣nesse in the world, which may not be presumed, to haue proceeded from her. So doe I likewise say; that he, that saies the word Corchete, (that is, Sergeant or Sergeants Yeoman) there is not that vice, that villanie, that wickednesse, * 1.114 which doth not vtter it selfe in that one word. For they haue neither soule

nor conscience; And are the onely true pictures, and most liuely images, of the Ministers of hell. So close doe they cling vnto thee, when thou fal'st into their clutches; and if they doe not drag thee by the collar, haling and tugging thee as if they would pull out thy throat, (which thou must acknowledge for a great & singular courtesie) yet at the least shalt thou be so basely vsed by them, that the Eagle will carrie away the fearfull Hare with a great deale more clemency and mercy in her sharpe tallons, then these Hell-hounds will thee. They will punch thee, and kicke thee, and elbow-beate thy backe if thou goe not forward as they would haue thee, and will reuile thee with such base and bitter tearmes, as if thou wert as bad as they: And for no other cause in the world doe they vse men thus scuruily and vnciuilly, saue onely to please their master, who they know likes well enough of it; as also for that it is a butcherly and beastly cu∣stome that they haue long kept, and therefore either cannot, or are loath to leaue it. Deeming them-selues, both then, and at all times, to bee the onely Lords and Masters of the world; not considering in the meane while, that nei∣ther hee, nor they, haue any farther power, then to put thee in safe custodie, and that without offering thee any the least wrong or iniurie in leading thee thither.

Iust after this manner as I haue told thee, will they violently (though thou be neuer so willing to goe quietly along with them) thrust thee this way, and * 1.115 that way, neuer leauing off to trouble and torment thee, till they haue brought thee to prison. Now, will you that I shall tell you, what manner of house this is, what the vsage, what you are there to endure, and what kinde of life you must leade there? you shall meet with it hereafter in its proper place; Let it suf∣fice for the present, that if it shall one day be thy hap to come thither, (which God forbid) after that they haue treated thee ill vpon the way in bringing thee thither, and peraduenture pickt either thy purse, or thy pocket, and rob'd thee of such moneys as thou hadst about thee, they will put thee into the hands of some churlish Iaylor, or some vnder-keeper of his, (as dogged a rogue as his master) who, as if thou wert his slaue, will accommodate thee in that ill fauo∣red filthy manner, as he him-selfe shall thinke fit, nor canst thou hope for bet∣ter, vnlesse thou come off liuely, and pay well for it. Be it better or be it worse, thou must take all patiently, and pocket it with silence; for thou art in his house, not in thine owne; and in another bodies power, &c. There, neither * 1.116 brauings, nor threatnings, great words, nor bigge lookes, will stead thee any thing at all; for they are such bug-beares them-selues, that they awe all, but feare none.

Then will they bring thee before the Alcayde, or his Deputie, or some such like imperious officer or other, before whom thou must be faine to come with cap in hand, crowching and creeping vnto him, studying new inuentions of doing reuerence and respect vnto him; making new kind of legges, and other vnaccustomed courtsies and congies vnto him; though I count this no such great matter, being rather more troublesome, then hurtfull. For I must truly confesse vnto you, that there are some Alcaydes, that carry them-selues as fa∣thers towards those that are brought before them; and for mine owne part, I euer found them so towards me, so that I cannot iustly complaine of them. True it is, they will liue by their Offices, as other men doe, they haue no other meanes to maintaine them, it is the trade, whereunto they must trust. Besides, they come not gratis to these places of gouernment. If they will come by them, they must buy them. Wherefore they doe thee a great fauour, if they doe thee * 1.117 iustice; if by their meanes thou come to recouer thine owne, and if they giue way to thee, either to escape with life, or to sustaine it, or quietly to order thine owne house, or to liue setled in thy owne estate without disturbance, or to de∣fend and make good thy plea. But in •…•…ne he is thy Alcayde, he that must iudge and censure, either thee, or thy cause; He may, or may not, wish thee

well; He hath the Law in his owne hands; thy liberty, or imprisonment lyes in his power. Well; when thou com'st to follow thy cause, thou must goe ado∣ring thy Proctor, or thy Lawyer; but beare this in minde too I pray, that I now say vnto thee, that I say nothing of him; for that hath its When, and its Where, its time, and its place, as your f 1.118 Savalo-pyes for the holy weeke; its weeke shall come to, when it shall be best in season.

In briefe, that I may not trouble my selfe twice with one subiect, and one and the selfe-same kinde of people; I plainly tell thee, that they will be thy masters, and that thou must suffer them, and beare with them, and not only be a slaue vnto thy Lawyer, but to thy Solicitour, the Notarie, the Master of the Office, the Clarke of the Pleas, the keeper of the papers, and the boy, that is to goe with thy Plea to thy Lawyer. But in case, thou goe home to his house, or his office thy selfe, and thou finde him retired into his chamber, or some other priuate with-drawing roome, dispatching of others, and thou stand wai∣ting, looking still when it will come to thy turne to be called in, like those, that standing on the bancke of a Riuer, expect a boat to come ouer vnto them from the other side, thou wilt be so tyred out with knocking thy heeles against aforme, that thou wouldst rather stay the comming forth of some furious Bull, then of him. After all this, when thou hast made a large relation of the whole * 1.119 businesse vnto him, and how the case stands, he will tell thee, that hee will burne his bookes, and giue ouer the Law, if thy businesse goe not with thee; This is their common language towards all their Clients, but they neither sa∣tisfie their expectation, nor performe their owne promise; for I neuer saw any of them, when their causes miscarried, either burne their bookes, or leaue their practise. And will haue one thing or other to excuse themselues; As that the businesse was not well followed, that diligence was not vsed therein, which should haue beene, or that it was his Clarkes fault, and none of his, who was out of the way, when his businesse was to be done, being either gone, at that very instant, with his children to Schoole, or to wait on his Mistris to Church, by whose default the opportunity was lost of drawing the Petition. Your Ad∣uocate, hath some smacke of the Law, but little of learning. He dictates, but does not write; and the reason is, because they take them too soone from Schoole, that they may with as little losse of time as they can, apply them to these studies, whether that they were sent thither somewhat of the latest by their friends, being kept too long from Schoole at first; or whether out of a couetous desire that they had, to haue them fall presently vpon the g 1.120 Digests, leauing the Principles indigested. As if good writing should not presuppose good reading, and good reading, and good writing together, beget good Or∣thography, and bring forth at last a good Latine-tongue, which like linckes that belong to one chaine, ought both to be learned, and ioyned together.

But of this enough: Let vs now passe on to some other Theame. For here, we doe but care out our cloakes, and spend our time to little purpose, and lesse profit. Let vs come to your ordinary Iudge, of whom I haue said some-thing * 1.121 vnto you already, nor know I well, what I should say more, saue that he makes open sale of Iustice, hucking with you, to bring you vp to their price, and if you refuse to giue them, what they require of you, they will plainly tell you, you shall looke for no Iustice from them; for it is worth more then they aske, and that such a one, that stands there by thee, payd a great deale more for it, then he now demands of thee.

But say thou shouldst appeale, and come to some superior Iudge, which sel∣dome happeneth, in regard the fish dies here first, or is at least so staru'd in this * 1.122 shallow brooke, before it can recouer that sea, that it comes thither without any Spawne, poore, and vnprofitable. Thy money is all gone, thou art needy, and not able to wage Law, for want of meanes; There thou shalt not find those pri∣uate interests, and particular profits which they make to themselues; but thou

shalt meet perhaps with passions, which sometimes proue as bad. And as their purses, haue not paid for thy breeding, so what care they whether thou be whipt or hang'd. Six yeeres, more or lesse, for which terme thou art condem∣ned to the Galleyes, what is it to them? It hurts not them; They are not sen∣sible of it; they feele not that, which thou feelest; nor suffer that, which thou sufferest. These, I tell thee, are the Gods vpon earth, they goe to their goodly houses, where they are well attended; they passe through the streets, where they are honoured, and adored, and feared of the people. What care then canst thou thinke, or conceiue with thy selfe, that they should take of such a poore soule as thou art? It is in their hands, to saue thee, or condemne thee; and so they will deale with thee, as their owne passions shall incline them to thy good, or hurt; or as some great and powerfull friends shall perswade with them.

I knew a certaine Iudge in Sevill, who condemned a fellow in poena pecunia∣ria, to pay such a summe of money by way of mulct for his offence that he had * 1.123 committed. Out of which he awarded two hundred ducats to be paid into the Chamber of Sevill by way of fine: with this command or proviso in the sen∣tence; That not being able to pay in the said summe, he should be sent to serue in the Galleyes for ten yeeres, and to rowe at the Oare like a slaue, of free cost, without receiuing one penny of pay. And when the terme of those his ten yeeres were expired, he should be brought backe againe to prison to the said Citie of Sevill, and from thence to the market-place, where he was to be han∣ged on the common gallowes.

Had it beene my case, before I would haue giuen such a foolish sentence, I should rather haue ordered it thus; That he should haue beene hang'd first, * 1.124 and afterwards sent vnto the Galleys; sure, the cart, in this case, should haue gone before the horse. Iumping for all the world with that which was said to an ignorant and vnskilfull painter, who talking one day in company, that ere long he would white his house, and afterwards paint it; nay, said one of the standers-by, you shall doe much better, if you paint it first, and white it afterwards.

There are some Iudges, whose tongues, so out-runne their discretion, that whatsoeuer comes first to mouth, it must out, nay, and must stand for good, though his owne iudgement vpon its better consideration, chide his tongue for being too forward. And if he that is Assessor with him, and is ioyned as his fellow-Iudge in Commission with him, shall take vpon him to moderate the matter, and seeme but the least way to crosse what he hath done, or shall but abate the least tittle of what he hath decreed, or in any manner at all to mi∣tigate the rigour of his sentence, it is as if you should take a thing from the Al∣tar; so sacred, doe these vnhallowed Iudges, hold their owne actions; Taking it as an indignitie, not to be endured. Looke well into the businesse then, and consider with thy selfe, how much the lesser euill it is of the two, that he that hath offended thee, should goe away with this his insolencie, and thou thereby remaine free from some great inconuenience. Which thou oughtest to permit, not only (as hath beene said before) that thou maist not be subiect to so many; but also, that thou maist not hurt thy selfe, by putting thy house out of order, and (by consequence) thy honour and person in perill, as also that of thy wife, thy children, and thy whole estate.

But perhaps thou wilt say vnto me: O, it is not fit, that this Villaine, that hath thus wronged me, should carry it away so, and laugh at me when he has * 1.125 done. I confesse it is not fit, nor is there any reason, why it should be so: yet, if thou must needs be laught at, it were better but one should laugh at thee, then many. For if thou wilt but hold thy peace, and seeme not to be moued at it, but to let it passe, and take no notice thereof, only he can laugh at thee in his sleeue that hath done thee this wrong; but if thou seeke to right thy selfe by Law, and be afterwards ouerthrowne, thousands will laugh at thee, that

thou shouldst be such a foole, to cast away thy money so wilfully amongst the Lawyers, hauing bought nothing therewith but meere smoake, and a little of their vnprofitable breath; and that Lawyer, will scoffe and deride thee most, that hath put thee in most hope, because by that meanes he hath most pickt thy purse.

Well, you will say, it may be so, I care not for all this; Let the worst come, that can come, there are many Churches to flie vnto for shelter, and the world is wide enough for vs all. Tell me (thou ignorant man) thinkest thou to ex∣cuse one error with another? Suppose the best that can befall thee in this case, it is no more but temporis dilatio, a little gaining of time. Neither there (no not in the Church) wilt thou be able to endure either the Priest, or his Curate, or that worshipfull master his Sexton. And what thinkst thou, that thou must suf∣fer, that they may beare with thee, and giue thee leaue to stay amongst them? Thinkst thou, there is no more in it then so, to say, I will goe to some Church, or other, and there take Sanctuary? Thou wilt meet with more troubles there, then thou art aware of. This incommodate accommodating of thy selfe, will cost thee money, nor canst thou continue there for euer. Thinkest thou it so small an inconuenience, to leaue thine owne home, and so to goe seeke thy for∣tune in forraine Countries? If haply thou be a Spaniard, (as I my selfe am) wheresoeuer thou shalt come, thou art sure to be an vnwelcome guest, thou shalt be ill receiued amongst them, how faire a show soeuer they make thee; for we haue this aduantage of all other nations in the world, that we are more ab∣horred * 1.126 in all places, and of all persons, then any other people vnder the Sunne; but whose fault it is, I know not. Thou goest wandring through desarts, from Inne to Inne, from a priuate lodging, to a common vittayling house. Thinkst thou, that they are all honest people, that haue for their Patron the good King, Don Alonso? Inne-keepers, and Vittaylers, thou knowest not (poore silly soule) what kinde of vermine they are, and therefore thou set'st so light by them, and seek'st not to flie from them.

Lastly, thou shalt endure many inconueniences in these thy trauels abroad; suffering heats and colds, winde and raine, bad weather, and bad wayes, and * 1.127 with it the distastfull company of diuers distinct Nations; one while it raines, another while it snowes, the riuers rise, and thou canst not passe, night is neere, and thy Inne farre off, it growes darke as pitch, and the clouds furiously dis∣charge vpon thee their lightning and thunder; and for that thou art of an im∣patient spirit, thou hadst rather dye a thousand deaths, then endure it.

Goe to then; goe thy wayes at last; leaue off these thy idle thoughts of going to Law; sit downe rather with losse, and liue in peace. For it is better * 1.128 that the world should say of thee, that thou art a patient wise man, then a re∣uengefull foole. What haue they either done, or said vnto thee, that thou keep'st such a coyle, and that no man was euer so wrong'd, as thou art? If that be true, which they haue spoken of thee, it is thou that hast giuen them cause so to doe; and if they lye, a lye is a lye, and he that lyes, let him goe like a lyar as he is. And therefore he did not thee so much wrong as himselfe, nor hast thou any reason to be reuenged on another by indangering thy selfe. Neg∣lect him, and let him goe for a knaue, as he is; for thou canst not take a fuller reuenge of him, nor punish him more, then to let him passe for an idle foole, and follow thine owne businesse. I haue spoken enough of this, thinke vpon it, it may make much for thy good, if thou wilt well weigh, what I haue said vnto thee. But I must returne againe into my old way, and now I am entring into it.

CHAP. IV.

Guzman de Alfarache, being freed out of prison, falls to gaming, gets money; Whereupon, he resolues with himselfe to goe to Millayne.

I Came out of prison, and got me to my lodging, being as sad and melancholy, as I was poore and misera∣ble; * 1.129 saying to Sayavedra; What doest thou thinke of the good market, that we haue made in this fayre? We may make merry with the gaines we haue got, this will serue for once to keepe vs out of beggerie, we need no money now, let vs spend, and be liuely. Consider now I pray with your selfe, vpon what a sure ground they goe, who seeke to recouer their owne by Law. He told me, Sir, I see how things are carryed, for I haue beene an eye-witnesse of all that hath past; but what remedy is there to be had, against the passions and priuate interests of Iudges, and the force and power of the potent? But that which toucheth me neerest, and grieues me most, is; That you will finde fault with me, and be offended with me, that I haue beene the instrument of this your wrong, and more parti∣cularly at this present by that counsell and aduice, which I gaue you, to recouer your goods. Which though it were done all for the best, hath vnfortunately fallen out to the worst. Sed homo proponit, & Deus disponit. Man proposeth one thing, and God disposeth another. Who would euer haue dream't, that things would haue fallen out as they doe? What should him say vnto it? There is now no helpe for it. For as a man cannot auoyde the stone, which a foole throwes by chance ou•…•… a house, and kills him therewith: So, much lesse was it to be imagined, or once to be suspected by vs, that such a businesse as this, so faire, and so full of truth, should proue so dis-proportionable, and so quite op∣posite to our vnderstanding.

Whilest we were thus talking of this matter, there com's me a couple of guests that were strangers into the Inne, challenged by a young man of that Citie, to play at Cards. And in a little square roome, that diuided their cham∣ber from mine, they had set vp a table, and to play they goe. Now I walking vp and downe that way, in my passing to and fro, seeing what past amongst them, I was desirous (for to entertaine the time, and to driue away melancholy) to draw neerer vnto them, and to looke vpon them. I did so, and pulling a stoole vnto me, taking that which came first to hand, I sate me downe, viewing one of their hands for the sp•…•…ce of some two houres, or more, in all which time there was little or nothing lost on either part. The money went to and fro; losing one while, and getting another; Fortune had show'd her selfe so equall, that shee had made them in a manner all sauers; what was wonne, was not worth the speaking of, there being no difference to be discerned in that they had drawne before they began. Euery man entertained himselfe with his owne money which he drew at first, expecting a lucky pull, whilest I in the meane while had a shrewder pull in mine owne bosome. They had not that griping them-selues, yet did they cause it in me, without any other why, or wherefore, * 1.130 saue only by my looking on his cards, by whom I sate, when either he lost through want of good carding, or well-playing of his game.

O what a strange nature are we made of, which I speake not only of my selfe, but of all in generall; for no•…•… any one of these men being knowne vnto me; nor hauing euer seene them before in my life, (for this was the first flight I had made of comming abroad since the time of my imprisonment) hauing neuer conuersed with them heretofore, being all alike strangers vnto me, yet me

thought I was much ioyed, and was glad with all my heart, when he did winne, my affection inclining to haue fortune show her selfe more fauourable vnto him, then the rest; and on the contrary was sorry, when I saw he lost. See what a kinde of sinne this was in mee; how vnprofitable to my selfe? how foolish and to no purpose, to desire that the other two might lose, that hee might rise the winner, and goe away with their money, as if my selfe had beene interessed therein, or as if they had got it from me, or were bound to let me haue it.

O, what an indiscretion, what an ignorance is it, to lay other mens burthens on our owne shoulders; which are neither of any moment in themselues, nor of any benefit vnto vs! One stands peeping out at his window, and another * 1.131 with his head halfe out at his doore, watching only to see, who went out of his neighbours house before day, who came in at midnight, what they brought in, and what they carryed out, led only thereunto out of an idle and needlesse curiositie; by reason whereof they runne into a thousand suspitions, a thou∣sand iealousies of such things, which neuer were, nor could be, much lesse to be gathered from them, or any way in the world to be imagined by them. Brother, or Sister, who ere thou be, get thee gone, leaue off thy prying into others actions, God helpe vs all; thou doest not know, whether such a one * 1.132 sinneth, or not sinneth; whether he doth this, or that other thing, or doth it not: and it may be, that he doth not sinne, but I am sure that thou doest sinne in doing as thou doest. Tell me, what doth his death, or his life, his going in, or his comming out, concerne thee? What good doest thou get by it, or what reward doe they giue thee, for that thy nights watching, so ill bestowed on thy selfe, and others? What honour, shalt thou reape by his dishonour? What contentment canst thou take therein? Say, by this diligence of thine, thou maist haply haue occasion to doe him some friendly office, and bestead him in time of need. It may be so. But this is so contrary a thing, to men of such base condition, that I assure my selfe, nay I dare to seale it with an oath, that thou wouldst not doe it.

If thy neighbour, fearing some thieues would come that night to rob him, should speake vnto thee to take the paines to sit vp & watch his house for him, & should very earnestly entreat thee so to do, tell me, and lye not, what wouldst thou say vnto him? what answere wouldst thou make him? Certainly, thou wouldst tell him, That thou hast enough to doe, to looke vnto thine owne, that euery man is bound to respect himselfe first; and that thou wilt not stand freezing in the cold, nor indanger thine owne health for to benefit another. How comes it then to passe, that to doe thy neighbour a good turne, and to exercise thy charity towards him, thou wilt not watch a quarter of an houre with him, and yet, that thou maist bring his faults to light, and lay open his * 1.133 spots to the S•…•…nne, thou wilt thus play the foole to sit vp a whole night to see if thou canst light vpon any oblique action, that thou maist lay in his dish here∣after? Doest thou not perceiue by this time, how ill this doth become thee? Seest thou not, that I say the truth? Thou canst not (if thou wilt but examine thy selfe) but know, that it were better for thee, and would stand a great deale more with thine owne health, to get thee to bed betimes, and to looke how things goe at home in thine owne house, and to let those of thy neighbour alone. Wilt thou, to doe him a despight, charge thine owne soule with those sinnes, of which thy neighbour is free, whence his comes to be saued, and thine to be damned? Such a one plaies to winne, and to increase his stocke, and it grieues me forsooth, that such a one should win, or such a one lose. Iust so it goes, and no otherwise. If thou take pleasure in looking on those that game, * 1.134 looke on (if thou canst) without passion. But thou canst not doe it; for thou art, as I am; and thou wilt doe, as I doe. Of the two, I should hold it the lesser euill, that thou shouldst play thy selfe, then looke vpon anothers game with

such like passion; For he that plaies, it is well enough knowne, that he desires to winne; and this is a battaile, that is fought betweene two wits, or foure. Thou, being confident of thy good fortune, doest aduenture thy money, at least thou desirest, that they may not carry it away from thee, thou seek'st to defend thy selfe as well as thou canst, and thou settest thy selfe downe to play with that credence and beleefe, that thou maist as well lose, as win, and as well get theirs, as they get thine; In this thou seem'st to haue some reason, and de∣seruest to be excused. But that onely by looking on, a man of reason, and vn∣derstanding, whom the businesse nothing concernes, should bee so blinded with passion, as to be affected, or dis-affected in that violent fashion, tell mee if I doe amisse, in styling him to be a man depriued of true iudgement, and whe∣ther I may not lawfully condemne him for it. But to returne to our purpose; Continuing their play, within a little while after, the Sea began to swell, the * 1.135 waues grew high, and the money began to swimme from one side of the boord to the other, their bloods waxed hot, and their choller began to kindle, they were now at their close fights, watching but aduantage to boord, or sinck each other; they grapled hard for it on all sides, & the Cards likewise they plaid their parts, and laid about them for life, bestirring them-selues lustily, and gaue one of them such a blow on the head with his club, that hee was strucken ouer boord, and he and all his money suncke, hauing lost in that fight aboue a hun∣dred Crownes. And this man, that had this great blow giuen him, was he in whose hand I lookt. Of whose losse I was as sensible, as if the case had beene mine owne; thinking with myselfe, that I had brought him this ill luck, and that I was the instrument of this his bad fortune. Which did grieue me so much the more, for that I vnderstood, that he was not worth in all the world so much more, as he had then lost.

Gaming ought to be vsed for two manner of ends; either for meere gaine, * 1.136 or to entertaine the time. If for gaine, I say nothing vnto it, saue that those, who bend them-selues that way, are like vnto Pyrats, that put them-selues forth to sea to purchase some prize. Capiat qui capere potest; catch, he that can catch; Let euery one arme his own ship, as well as he can, and haue an eie to the bullets that flie about his eares, and those other warlike weapons which they vse in such kinde of fights. Who goe scouring the Seas a whole yeare, in hope to meet with one lucky day.

They that play for intertainment, should bee onely such, whom the Cards them-selues doe marke and point out vnto vs; In them, shall we picke out some learning; for if we shall but consider the Kings a 1.137, the Queenes, and the Knanes, that are there pictured and painted forth vnto vs, from the vppermost of all the other, to the lowest, which is the Ace, you shall not finde any portraitures or shapes as in the former; giuing vs thereby to vnderstand, that none should play there-at but Kings, Queenes, and Knanes. I can assure you that in all the whole packe of Cardes, you meete not with any Merchants, Trades-men, Law∣yers, nor Diuines, for they are not befitting their professions. The very Aces, speake as much vnto vs; for from the Knaue, or rather Sota, which is the Soul∣dier, downe to the Ace, which is the least and last Card, thou shalt see nothing else but spots, admonishing vs thereby, that all (except the aforesaid) are but Asses, that shall offer to play at Cards. And such another Asse was this my adop∣tiue sonne, in losing that, which perhaps was none of his owne, nor had where∣with to pay, at least could hardly spare it.

But I will not straine this string so hard, that I should quite debarre men of these noble entertainments; for I will not call him a gamester, who plaies but now and then for his recreation, once, or twice, halfe a dozen, or halfe a score times in a yeare, for this cannot hurt him much; especially if he doe not play out of a greedy desire of gaine, but onely for sport and pastime. Howbeit I hold it a thing impossible, that a man should set himselfe to play, without a * 1.138

desire to winne, though it should be but for a pinne, and that he play, with his wife, or his sonne. For although a man doe not stake money (and so cannot be said to play for couetousnesse of the coyne) yet the opinion of a mans vnder∣standing and iudgement, lies then at stake, and there is no man so meane spiri∣ted, and of that weaknesse of nature, that would willingly be beaten by ano∣ther, if he could otherwise chuse.

This my man, I told you of, was one of the guests to the house, where I lay, the winnings were diuided betweene his companion and the Citizen; the quarrell ceased for that time, and a fresh challenge was made against after sup∣per. And so they brake off, the winners going each their way, as their seuerall occasions lay; and the loser, to looke out more money. I doubt not but hee vs'd all the diligence he could to get more (for gamesters soldome want money to game, though scarce euer haue any to pay their debts:) but because it is a * 1.139 massie kinde of mettall, and waighes very heauy, it sinkes downe still to the bottome, and is long and hard a getting vp againe; hee could not (it should seeme) get any money, yet he came thither, though without it; more offen∣ded with those that would not lend it him, then with those who had got it from him. He went walking and raging vp and downe the roome, puffing * 1.140 and blowing like a Bull; all the whole chamber was too little for him. One while he walkes athwart it, another, stalkes along from one end to the other, then againe flings me from one corner to the other corner, huffing and cha∣fing, nothing could content him, all was vexation of spirit, he railes vpon the Citie, and vpon that traytor, that was the cause of his comming thither, that that was no Country for honest men to dwell in, but for thieues and cut∣throats, being that he had in that towne, a hundred knowne friends, and all of them rich and well moneyd men, yet could he not borrow one Royall 〈◊〉〈◊〉 them all, and began to sweare that he would doe this, and that, and I know not what, if it should be his hap to meet with any of them in his owne Coun∣trie. I gaue him the hearing, and held my peace. And when he went into his chamber, I might heare him sit downe on his bed-side, and might from mine, heare likewise the blowes, which he gaue with his fist vpon the table that stood by him.

I cal'd Sayavedra aside, and told him; Occasion is now offered vnto me, ei∣ther * 1.141 to get out of my troubles, or to get me to an Hospitall. And seeing that small store of money which is remaining vnto me, is not so much, as to sustaine vs any long time, let vs sup well, or goe to bed with a iarre of water, all's one, as good to day, as to morrow, for hold out much longer wee cannot. What thinkst thou of this? tell me thy opinion, whether I shall play the foole, or the wise man in doing that which I intend? Shall it not bee well done, that after supper, when the same company shall meet againe together, wanting a third to maintaine the combat, I should come forth as a challenger into the lists, aduen∣turing to runne my Lance amongst the rest, putting my selfe vpon fortune ei∣ther to lose, or winne the honor of the day, by hazarding those few Crownes that I haue? Sayavedra made answer vnto me, That I should haue him euer ready at hand vpon all occasions, being that he had now set vp his rest to doe * 1.142 me seruice, and that hee would carefully doe whatsoeuer I would haue him, spake I in earnest, or in iest, and were it good, or ill that I should vndergoe, he would alwaies sticke close vnto me, and be still at mine elbow, to performe that which I should be pleas'd to command him. Yet norwithstanding, that vpon this occasion, I might not come off with dishonor (for wee were then driuen very low, and almost brought to beggers bush) it were good to secure the bu∣sinesse. Wherefore he would marshall things in that manner, that both safely, and subtlely, he would range all ouer the field, and euermore giue me aduice of my aduersaries forces, and how and where their strength lay, and when I was to charge them home, as likewise to make my retreat; so that he keeping a

true account of their Cards, and the numbers wherewith they were to set vpon me, it was not possible that I should lose. When hee had said thus much vnto me, a man might haue pul'd my skin ouer mine eares, and I should neuer haue felt it, for I was for very ioy, ready to leape out of it my selfe; for my ability at play, and the skill and cunning that I had in handling the Cards, being hol∣pen by his aduice, there was no doubt to be made, but that I might easily con∣uert three parts of their money to mine owne vse. Saying secretly to my selfe; No ay mal, que no venga p•…•…r bien: There is no ill, which doth not turne to our * 1.143 good. And it may bee that by this meanes, I might recouer my selfe of those losses, which I had so lately receiued. I did long my selfe to haue told him as much, but I did desire this base action, should proceed rather out of his mouth, then mine. For I was willing in this to keepe that decorum which beseemeth * 1.144 a Master with his seruant. For otherwise, if this tricke should haue beene plaid out of my hand, Sayavedra would happely haue said to himselfe; See, what a fine master I serue! I haue rid my selfe of a thiefe, and haue lighted vpon a cheater. What a tree haue I taken, whereunto to leane? Had it not beene bet∣ter for me to haue gone and leaned against a wall? Yes certainly, for that would not haue thus deceiu'd me. Stay, stay, (Sayavedra) for all you were my friend, it was no part of my meaning, to open my minde vnto you in that straine, doe you enter first, and you will, vpon the point of my sword, and if you haue a mind to it, come on a Gods name when you please; for I promise you, you shall first confesse your selfe to me, before you haue any confession from mee; I will haue a pawne first from you, before you haue any pledge from me. But when we 〈◊〉〈◊〉 once vnmasked our selues, and cast off all disguises on either side, let vs come off freely, deale plainly one with another, I will speake what I thinke, •…•…nd thou shalt speake what thou thinkst; Let vs iumpe as well in bredth, as in length, and then there will be little ods and difference betweene vs in the rec∣•…•…oning. There he and I were disputing a great while with our selues, which •…•…gnes would •…•…e best, whereby we might come to know both the others hands; And at last it was resolu'd on, that the best manner of doing it, would bee by * 1.145 the buttons of his ierking, or the ioynts of the fingers, according to the arte of the Gammuth, when we learne first to sing. And hauing made triall thereof some three or foure bouts, we grew so ready and so perfect therein, that wee now vnderstood one another better by these our tokens, then our tongues.

Now were the challengers entred the lists, whilst I was walking vp and down there in the roome with my Rosario in my hand, like a Hermite, my seruant being in the meane while in my lodging. They began to talke of falling afresh to play; whereupon, the third man told them what had passed, and that hee could not meet with those his friends that should haue furnisht him with mo∣ney, but if they would trust him vpon his word, till the next day morning, see whatsoeuer he should lose vnto them vpon the ticket, he would truly pay them. The Citizen sayd, that he should be well content therewith for his part, but told him withall, there was no heart in it, and that it was a kind of dull and te∣dious sport, and that he had neuer any good lucke, but did alwaies lose, when he plaid vpon the Ticket. But the other would by no meanes giue way there∣vnto. Whereupon their gaming was at the best, the company was vpon brea∣king off, and euery one going his way; but when I saw this good conuersation was vpon dissoluing, leauing my Beades to keepe their owne reckoning, I stepe forth, and said vnto them; Since this Gentleman doth not play, so as you will not play too great play, but onely for entertainment, and no more, but to passe away some part of the night, and that so holy a worke may not bee left off for want of a third, if it please you, I will put my selfe vpon the Cards, and trie for a while how well they will deale with me. The other two, were very glad of this, the motion pleas'd them passing well; for they took me to be some young Thrush, that was new crept out of the shell, and had not my bill growne out,

and was not able to pecke at any thing. Making reckning, that all was their owne, if they got me in to play, and that my money was as sure theirs, as if they had had it already in their purse. And for that they thought, if I should chance to lose my money, I would also venture my chaine (which I of purpose disco∣uered vnto them by vnbuttoning my ierkin) and if I were once bitten, and began to bleed, being a young man, as I was, I would not haue the patience to giue ouer, but throw the pot-hookes after the pot, and the helue after the hat∣chet, and lose all, that I was able to make.

Well, we were now set downe, and ready to goe to the businesse, where∣upon * 1.146 I called for Sayavedra, and said vnto him; Goe fetch me some money, if you haue any siluer left, bring it me quickly. He presently drew out a hun∣dred royals, which I had giuen him before, that he might haue them in readi∣nesse, when I called for them. He abiding a while in my chamber, till our play grew a little warme, and then calling him to snuffe the candles, I said vnto him, seeming as if I had beene angry with him; Are we to be vsed thus by thee? Haue you so much businesse to doe in the chamber, or are you so drow∣sie-headed, that you cannot stay here in the roome, if we should at any time haue occasion to vse you? He said neuer a word, but stood still, and held his peace, insomuch that no man in the world would haue once suspected any harme from him, for he neuer offered so much as to cast but an eye vpon me, nor did he at any time remoue his hand from his bosome, by which meanes he gaue me true knowledge how their games went. And howbeit, we vn∣derstood one another well enough, I would sometimes of purpose seeme not to vnderstand him, nor would I make vse of his warie aduice, but when I had wonne two or three hands, I tooke pleasure now and then to lose a little. I did suffer them now and then to draw my money, but neither much, nor often, left when they had me on the lift, they might haue left off: I was content they should touch it, but not enter vpon it; and afterwards I would charge them home, that I might, hauing once netled them, egg them 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the more. I did skirmish with them in that cunning manner, that I made them still come on more and more eager vpon my money. But when I began to suspect, that they would giue ouer the fight, and sound a retreat, and that they were to leaue the field, and be gone, I then thought fit to pursue them to some purpose, and to follow the chase a little more hotly, till I saw them safe in the net, and had them in my hands, to doe what I would with them, and then did I set roundly vpon them and their money, bringing it all vnder my subiection in a very short •…•…ace, few blowes being strucken in the battaile. I had got of those two, all that they had gained of the other before. Whereof they were so ashamed, and so stung withall, that they swore they would haue another bout with me the next day, challenging me againe at the same game. I willingly accepted of it. They came, we playde, and I was willing to let them winne some thirty Crownes of me, which they carried away with them, giuing ouer play for th•…•… •…•…ime; for, this losse, was but a bayte that I laid for them, knowing that this would flesh them, and put them in heart a-new, and make them come on brauely at our next meeting. Yet one of them was willing to continue longer, and said; Let vs play greater game, for that the night growes late. Nay (quoth 1) by the same reason, it were better that we goe now to bed, and meet againe to morrow, which if you like of it, and be at leysure, we may come together somewhat sooner, and taking the day before vs, we may play at pleasure, and as long as we lift. They were wondrous glad to heare me say so, and that they had yet lost somewhat vnto mee, hoping in the end that they should get more by me.

The next day they came, with their purses well arm'd with double pisto∣lets, well appointed for warre, they threw downe whole handfuls of them vpon the boord, some being peeces of two, some of foure, and some of ten,

seeming to make no more reckning of them, then if they had beene so many peeces of copper coyne. Saying, as they flung them downe; Coraggio, coraggio (Senor Soldado) see you what here is, to be spent in your seruice? I told them; Although I am not so rich, as to be able to doe you seruice with so large a sup∣ply of money, yet at least my good will shall not be wanting to attend vpon you, as your seruant. I was about to tell them, that I did not doubt e•…•…e long to see this faire companie of these glittering men at armes to come and march vnder my colours. We began to play, and I went wearying of them out by little and little, giuing them line enough to runne them-selues out of breath, and when I saw, that I had now brought them euen with me, and that I might strike them both dead at once, I let flie a whole volley of shot at them, and in a few hands, I saw in these hands of mine aboue fiue hundred Crownes, which yeelded themselues vp to my mercy, whom (out of the pittifulnesse o•…•… my na∣ture) I tooke into my protection. The maine battaile being thus ouerthrowne, my two Captaines were faine to forsake the field, after these their bravado's, and to try if they could leuie fresh men, and raise new forces to encounter me againe the next day, promising to bid me battaile, if I durst abide it. I was not a little glad to heare them say so, as well for that I had let them blood both alike; as also, for that my heart was now pretty well at quiet; holding my selfe very well pleas'd with that which I had gotten of them, being as well contented, as if I had wonne all that they had beene worth. For I had now enough to serue my turne, and what should I desire more? But I cannot ex∣presse vnto you how glad I was, that they should giue ouer fi•…•…st; for it was a rule, which I euer obserued in my play, that I would not willingly g•…•…ue any the least occasion of difference; and therefore did euermore lea•…•…e it to the lo∣sers owne good liking, to play, or not to play; referring it to his choice, as he himselfe had most minde to. They went away in a good houre; and I fearing, that this Townes-man, might put a Towne-tricke vpon me, and that the stran∣ger, being in need, and in want, might doe me some wrong (for I was lately, to my great cost, too well acquainted what good iustice a man was to looke for in that Citie) I told Sayavedra, when we were alone by our selues, that without any word speaking, or telling any body, whither we intended to goe, we would take horse betimes in the morning, and poste with all speed to Mil∣layne. And so we did, leauing them full of sorrow, but not so much as one crosse of siluer, wherewith to blesse themselues.

CHAP. V.

Guzman de Alfarache, trauayling towards Millayne, Sayavedra vpon the way, recounts his owne life vnto him.

WE rode towards Millayne, with as great haste, as feare. For Bologna standing so high as it does, it is to be disc•…•…rned a great way of, the very shadow whereof, did make my heart to tremble, fearing the danger, whereinto it had lately put me. For I was euer of the minde, That there is no fault, but hath his punishment; no ill, but hath his chastisement. Now did I wish, that horses had beene borne with wings, that mine might haue flowne away with me. But miserable wretch that I am, what good would that haue done me? it had beene all one to me; for then others, would likewise haue had the like horses, to haue ouer-taken me. What way so euer I tooke, I found it all full of thornes, bushes, and brambles, which did scratch, and pricke my * 1.147 guilty conscience; which way soeuer I went, I was fearefull of danger; and

the more slownesse, the more feare. And he neuer thinks he flyes fast enough, that seekes to flie from a mischiefe. I, accompanied with my thoughts, and Sayavedra with his, went iogging on along, but both as mute as fishes; though his were farre different from mine. For my care only was, to see my selfe in some place of safetie; and Sayavedra was thinking with himselfe, how much of this money would fall to his share.

We rode on a great while in this manner; at last, that I might bid feare farewell, which thus troubled me, I sought to shake it off, and if I could, quite to forget it, by entertayning some one thing or other, to turne the streame another way; it seeming vnto me, to be no lesse foolish, for a man, to be too silent vpon the way, then to babble and prate too much, in the street. And therefore, that I might be the first to breake the yce, I call'd to Sayavedra, and said vnto him; Come, let vs talke of something or other, to passe away the time; or doe thou tell me some storie vpon the way, to giue me content; it will make our iourney the shorter. He then, finding his bowle flung in amongst the rest, and that he was not shut out for a bungler, seeing there was occasion now offe∣red vnto him, to speake that, which he longed to vtter, he began to breake his mind•…•…, and said thus vnto me.

I wish Sir, that I could tell you a tale, how glad I was, and what a deale of good it did doe me, to taste of the sweetnesse of your gaines. But I am so con∣fident of the noblenesse of your disposition, that this my comming to serue you (seeing you haue beene pleased to entertaine me for your seruant) shall not be only for satisfaction of that debt, wherein I stand bound vnto you, but also make much for my profit. I was glad to see this arrow flie forth of his quiuer, and that he had touch't mee vpon that string; whereupon, I thus replyed vnto him.

Friend Sayavedra; What is past, is past; and there is no more to be said of it; for there is no man, so much man, and master of himselfe, which either here, or there; this place, or that; this, or that time, doth not slip in one kinde or other. We liue all in the flesh; and all flesh is weake. Others, haue this weak∣nesse, * 1.148 some other wayes: Euery one committeth his errour, one in one sort; another, in another. As thou hast in this thing, wherein my selfe am likewise faulty. God helpe me in my iudgement; for I know not what will become of me. For I finde, I haue as much cause, as he that hath most, if not more, boldly to vndergoe any desperate attempt whatsoeuer. And let him be who, or what •…•…e will, (had he found himselfe in that grea want and miserie, as we were) he •…•…ould haue done the like, as we haue done: which was no better then plaine theft, to cozen these poore men, of that little which they had, which perhaps was all, that they had wherewithall to liue: Nor would I at that time, (being in that poore case as I was) haue spared any purse whatsoeuer, had it had a thousand Crownes in it, though it had beene of an Orphane, that had neither father, nor mother, to helpe it.

And seeing, that we are fallen into this errour, and for that I perceiue thou * 1.149 hast vnderstanding and iudgement to apprehend any thing, and to go through with it, I perswade my selfe, thou doest likewise comprehend, that I am no Trader in the Indyes, nor any of your rich Fucaro's, but a poore young man, (as thou art) rob'd of his substance, and depriued of his necessaries, by such meanes, as are best knowne to thy selfe; nor haue I any greater or better profession to liue by, then that which thou hast seene in me. Now, because I would not doe any thing, that might fauour of basenesse, or vnlike my selfe, and to beare the same port I did heretofore, I must endeuour to maintaine my selfe (at least) in some reasonable fashion, as euery honest man ought to doe, not falling a lot from that state and condition of life, wherein my parents left me, and where∣unto my so tune had rays'd me. For albeit I seru'd that Lord of mine, the French Embassador, and liu'd in house with him, it was out of that loue, which

he bore vnto me from a childe, and vpon the earnest intreaty, that he made vnto my friends, my father, and he, being of ancient acquaintance, and hauing liu'd and conuersed long together in Paris. And so he begg'd me of him, say∣ing; he should take no farther care for me, and that he would one day make me a man.

But since that things haue so fallen out with me as they haue, (as in part you your selfe know) and that I haue left his house, and am now come from him, I am not minded to returne thither any more, till I haue seene somewhat of the world, and that I may come home rich and in plenty, and be able to liue in ease and pleasure, all the rest of my life. Euery place a 1.150 affords good bread; * 1.151 and that of Rome, agrees not with my stomacke, for it doth not digest very well with me, but turnes to rawnesse and crudities. And it is no maruayle, that all men should seeke out some meanes or other to liue; especially, seeing they, that haue lesser abilities, endeuour the like. * 1.152

Turne thine eye aside, and looke vpon as many men, as now liue in the world; view, and consider them well, and thou shalt finde, that they all goe seeking to encrease their estates, to aduantage themselues the best that they can; and failing in those obligations, whereunto they are tide both in honor, and honestie, by one deuice or other, this or that tricke, euery one seekes to aduance himselfe and his fortunes, as high as he can. The King, seekes to * 1.153 augment his State, and inlarge his Kingdome; The Gentleman, to raise his House; The Merchant, to encrease his wealth, and to driue such a trade, as may turne to his great profit; And the Trades-man, to gaine by his Trade: And that not alwaies (by their leaue) in that conscionable and lawfull fashion as is fitting they should. For it happeneth so with some of them, that first grow∣ing knu•…•…kle deepe, and afterwards vp to the elbowes in vngodly gaine, and vn∣iust dealing, they neuer leaue off till they be vp to the very eyes, nay ouer head and eares (I will not say) in Hell, doe thou say it for me, whose tongue is bol∣der then mine, to lay this censure vpon them. In conclusion, all the world in this case, is as it were another Rochelle; Euery man liue for himselfe; get hee, that can get; Onely they, that are vnfortunate, as thou art, pay the punish∣ment of their sinne. If thou hadst beene a thiefe of the largest size, I say one of those great ones, that shouldst haue gone away with three or foure thousand Duckats at a clap, thou mightst peraduenture haue made thy peace, bought out fauour and iustice, and mightst haue past well enough with them, and haue come off cleare, as they often doe: But those poore wretches, which know not how to negociate, nor haue any set rents, no receipts, nor Bils of exchange, nor know how to get a great deale of money into their hands (compounding afterwards for a little) paying backe a third part, and that slowly, ill, or neuer; these poore rogues, I say, that neither haue the wit to inuent, nor the power to aspire to any great bootie, nor to vndertake great matters, are (as infamous thieues) sent to the Gallies, and sometimes hang'd, not for thieues (for thieues are not hang'd) but because they did not well know what did belong to their office, and were not their owne crafts-masters. And I will here by the way, tell thee what I heard of a Slaue, that was a Negro, entre boçaly ladino, one that was a nouice, and was better skil'd in his owne, then the Country language wherein he liu'd, being scarce perfect in either; whic•…•… story will fall in here very fitly.

In Madrid, in the daies of my child-hood, where I resided some time, there were adulterers led to execution; and although this sin be very common there, * 1.154 and much vsed amongst them, yet it is seldome punished; for there are neuer wanting good meanes, and good moneys; by meanes whereof these kinde of crimes are well accommodated: but at this time, and with this womans hus∣band, they could worke no good. A world of people went forth to see them, especially your women, insomuch that the streets, and the windowes were

wholly taken vp with them, making great moane for that miserable and vnfor∣tunate woman. Now when her husband had cut off her head, this Negro spake * 1.155 out aloud, and said; O God, how many here doe behold this sad spectacle, who with a great deale of reason might haue the like measure!

We likewise, may very well say; How many, are there now adaies, who condemne others to the gallowes, whereon they might better, and with more reason, be hang'd themselues. I wonder at nothing in this age, nor am I of that queazy stomacke, that any thing should offend mee; I will dance to the sound of that Pipe, after which I see others dance; let things last, as they may last; and hold out as long as they can, and then there is an end of them; like vnto spoones made of a crust of b•…•…ead, which wee haue no sooner supt vp our pottage with, but we send them presently packing the same way with the other. And since thou saist, that thou lou'st my company, & tak'st much content∣ment therein, and that thou lik'st so well of it, I hope, it shall neither bee hurt∣full vnto thee, nor hard to brooke it. For I am so good a fellow, and of so in∣genious a disposition, that I know how to value and make a true esteeme of those kindnesses which are done vnto mee; the thankfull acknowledgement thereof, I shall referre to my actions, which in their due time, shall testifie, what I now professe. But because reward is the spurre, which puts vertue forward; and the onely whetstone, that sets an edge on mens affections; making them to goe on brauely and couragiously in all that they vndertake; And that it ar∣gues a basenesse of minde, not to reward, when from thence some glory, or benefit may arise; And that a man doth not cumply with his duty, when hee doth not take any paines for his liuing; for to that end was he borne, and there∣with is he to sustaine himselfe; it is fit, and no more then what is iust, that euery man should haue a proportionable and equall gaine, according to the quality of his aduenture: And I am very well content to giue way hereunto, making this the first stone in this our building; and will treat farther hereafter of that, which is to be ordered and set downe betweene vs, in these, or any other the like occasions, that shall offer them-selues vnto vs.

All that, which shall fall, or come vnto our hands, as well those fruits already fallen, as those that are to fall hereafter, shall be diuided into three equall parts; * 1.156 of all which thou shalt haue one part for thee, and another for me, and the third shall g•…•…e for to defray the charges of auerige, for it wi•…•…l not be alwaies faire wea∣ther; nor shall wee still saile before the wind; nor make euermore a speedy voyage; as it happens when men are becalmed at Sea; and when we shall land and come ashore, it is not fit that we should want cloathes, and other necessa∣ries, nor must we, if the enemy should set vpon vs, bee vn-prouided of muni∣tion to defend our selues, and offend him; nor, should wee chance by some, storme or other accident, to bee cast vpon some shelfe or quick-sand, must wee lacke a boate to put out, wherein to saue our liues, though we lose our goods. This third part, we w•…•…ll still lay apart by it selfe, that shall be, as it were the Aerarium, and publike Tre•…•…surie, our common purse, for to supply and relieue our necessities. For, if we goe wisely and discreetly to worke, and be not rash and inconsiderate in our actions, seeing we want not vnderstanding, and haue some skill in nauigation, (at least are both of vs good Coasters,) I for my part will content my selfe with no lesse, then some good place of command in my Countrey, and such good store of wealth, that I may afterwards liue happily all the daies of my life. And all this will I bring about, before I be 〈◊〉〈◊〉 yeares elder. Be therefore of good courage, and take heart vnto thee, for thou shalt make the like purchase, wherewith thou maist returne with credit to Valençia. I would not haue thee busie thy selfe in base thefts, nor be none of those •…•…ea∣king thieues, that steale Primers, Horne-bookes, and Ballads; for from such kind of thefts, thou shalt reape no other profit, but infamie, and reproach. In a word, let vs brauely resolue, Morir ahorcados, ó comer contrompetas; Either to * 1.157

hang together for company, or to haue our dinners seru'd in with Trumpets. Let vs dye like dogges, or liue like men. For a mans life is ended in a day; but pouerty, is a daily de•…•…th. And if we goe on as we haue begun, and vse these, and the like trickes, we shall with a little practice, grow to greater both cun∣ning, and wealth, and bid a fart in Feares teeth; For all moneths are alike, bee * 1.158 they faire or foule, euery one hath c 1.159 his thirty dayes, and no more; Euery man must liue out his time, how happily, or how miserably, I cannot say; euery one must be content with his fortune: And for as much, as in the darke, all Cats d 1.160 are blacke, and Ione is as faire as my Lady; we will so carry things in the clouds, * 1.161 that wee may not appeare in our right colours. Wee two will ioyne together, keepe counsell, and deale fairly one with another, diuiding the spoile equally, that there may be no falling out betweene vs: For, as it is in the Prouerbe; Un lobo, a otro, nunca se muerde; One Wolfe, will not bite another. Loe here, if thou wilt, thou shalt presently, before we goe any farther, haue a third part of what * 1.162 is already got; for it is not iust nor honest, to debarre any man of his right, or to with-hold that from him, which is his. Much good may it doe thee; and thanke God, that with so fortunate a foot, and so propitious a starre, thou hast lighted thus happily into our company; desiring him, that we may not fall in∣to the hands of Pyrate•…•…, who haue an eye to nothing else, but to runne away with the meat, that others haue drest, to licke away the creame, that others haue laboured for; and to skimme away all the fat from off the pottage, not leauing vs any 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that good is.

With t•…•…is kinde of language, and my liberall carriage, dealing thus kindly and boun•…•…lly with him, I went securing his person vnto me, that hee might not forsake me, b•…•…t st•…•…y, and liue with me. For if I should haue sought ouer all the world for a Mariner, I could not haue met with a better Mate for my Barke, nor one, that would so well haue suted for my purpose, as Sayavedra. Besides, he being my equall, and euery way as good a man as my selfe, was con∣tented to b•…•…come my seruant, and to acknowledge me for his master, it being no small aduantage to haue the hand, in most games that you play at. He, vpon these good words of min•…•…, was so ouercome, that he rested no lesse contented, then conquered by me. And so falling, in our future discourse, from one thing to another, (as men vse to doe when they talke vpon the way) I hapt at last to aske him the cause, that mou'd him to rob me? Sir (said he) though I would, yet I cannot now forbeare, to acquaint you with the whole course of my life, and truly and faithfully to deliuer vnto you euery particular passage thereof, as well for those fauours which I haue so liberally receiued already from your * 1.163 hands, as also for that it is well enough knowne to the world, and therefore re∣quires no such secresie; As likewise, for that with those with whom we keepe company, and are daily to conuerse and liue withall, plaine dealing must bee vsed, and all matters fairly laid open, without the concealing or hiding of any thing: For, not onely to our Confessors, our Lawyers, and our Physitians, are we to tell the truth, but to those also that are of our owne profession, birds of the same feather; nor was this vertue euer yet wanting amongst vs, which is a powerfull meanes for the maintaining of friendship, and the faster wedging of one man vnto another. But that I may at length cumply with those many obligations, wherein I stand bound vnto you; I shall giue you (Sir) to vnder∣stand, That I am of Valençia, borne of honest parents, (whom report may one day make knowne vnto you) for they (God be praised) are now both dead; * 1.164 onely, their fame liueth. We were two brothers, and both vnfortunate; whe∣ther it were, because from children, conu•…•…rsing continually together, wee ran courses alike, and did in all things sort and sute each with other; or whether it were, that suffering our selues to be carried away with the fury of our vaine ap∣petites, without striuing to make due resistance, we did giue way to this temp∣tation, by consenting thereunto, (or to say more truly) fell into this weaknesse,

not thinking on those future dangers, that were to follow thereupon, but drawne along with those baytes, that for the present pleas'd our taste, be∣ing now inured, and accustomed thereunto, wee could not (though wee would) goe backe. My other brother, is somewhat elder then my selfe, and though both of vs were of a reasonable good capacitie, and had (as they say) our wits and iudgements about vs, and were not put (as other men are) to seeke for them, yet could not this vnderstanding of ours, put a bridle vpon our vnruly affections; such is, or was the force of our malignant starre, and so great the power of our euill inclination, that we could not auoid it. In so much, that laying aside all respects of honor, and to apply our selues to any set course of life, more out of a desire to see strange Countries, then to get some honest meanes, whereby to liue, we went out into the wide world to seeke our fortunes. But because things might not chance to fall out so luckily with vs, as we did frame to our selues, and that if we should come in trouble, we might not be knowne, nor dishonor our house, we did agree betweene our selues, to change and alter our names.

My brother being a good Latinist, and a fine Scholler, fetcht his name, I know not from whence; His owne name being Iuan Marti, of Iuan, hee made Luxan; and of Marti, Mateo; and turning it by inuerting the words, he cal'd himselfe Mateo Luxan. In this manner, did hee wander through the world; and the world saith, that it gaue him the same payment, as it did mee. But I, for that I had no learning, and knew no more then a young Nouice in a Mo∣nasterie, I would not trouble my head with these curiosities, but going the downe right way to worke, and knowing that the Sayavedra's were of prin∣cipall note, and ancient Gentlemen of Sevill, I styled my selfe to be of that City, and tooke their name vpon me. But I was neuer in Sevill, no•…•… know any more thereof, then what I haue said already.

Being thus new christned, we set forth both on one and the same day, and began our trauailes together, but went each of vs a seuerall way. Some haue told me, who knew him by sight, that they haue seene him in Castile, and in Andaluzia very hardly vsed; and that from thence, he went to the Indyes, where it also went ill with him. I shap't my course another way; for I got me to Barcelona, where in the Galleys I past ouer into Italy: I had spent all that, which I had brought along with me from home, and at last became exceeding poore. And because Necessitie, doth oftentimes (as theys say) driue a man to doe that, which he neuer dream't of, tost thus vp and downe, and cruelly en∣countred with hunger, I chanced in the end to arriue in the kingdome of Na∣ples; where, I had euer a desire to reside, for the great good which I had heard of that Citie.

I traueld all ouer that kingdome, spending that which I had not, till I came to be a notable Picaro, and began at length to conuerse with as a•…•…rant Rogues as my selfe; and from one round to another I grew vp by degrees, to be a fine nimble-fingerd d 1.165 Fuller, I could teazell cloathes singular well, I could picke a pocket very neatly, and cut a purse handsomely, and doe many the like fine 〈◊〉〈◊〉. I made my selfe a Camerade with those that were the Masters of our Company, and had recourse alwayes vnto them, that they might couer mee vnder their wing in time of aduersitie; I was but their seruant, and one of those ordinary Souldiers as it were, that fought vnder their Ensigne. For my pouer∣tie was so great, that I could neuer get me into a stocke to put me into cloathes, or to be able to set vp shop for my selfe. Nor was it an inability or insufficiency •…•…n me, that I came no better forward in the world; for there was not such a c•…•…nning sharker amongst them all, as I was; my sheeres, would finde an edge, when theirs could not cut; they were all bunglers to me; I was able to haue •…•…ead vn•…•…o them all those foure cursory Lectures of thieuing; and those other two of cony-catching and cheating, which I read for my degree, when I pro∣ceeded

Batcheler in that Art. For I was so well read in those roguish studies, and from the time that I first learn'd them, had them all so perfect at my fingers ends, that I was not to seeke of any one of them. I was that singular Saker, that excellent Ierfalcon, that neuer mist my prey, but tooke all that I flew at either in Citie or Countrey. No game came amisse to me. None of them vnderstood halfe so well as I, the Art in cutting of a purse; nor to diue into a pocket, so deepe, as I could. I was dogge at it, and could dispatch my businesse in a trice. My eye, and my hand, went both together; they were here and there, and euery where, with a prestò be gone. I was of all occupations; a mariner, a mil∣ler, a baker, a scout, a crosse-biter, one of your vp-right men, a cheater, a coze∣ner, a fox, that was full of craft and subtletie; none of my standing, no nor six yeeres elder then I, but would strike sayle to me, and acknowledge himselfe as farre inferiour to me, as the fowle is to the Falcon.

But by reason of their ancient standing, and the reputation they had got in those former dunsicall times, they tyrannized and vsurped on the name of fa∣mous professors: These were the Caesars; and we the poore rogues; whom they sent abroad, from house to house, to scowre dishes, to cast an eye in euery corner, to make one excuse or other wheresoeuer we came; demanding in one place, whether such a Gentleman were there or no; and in another, whether they wanted a young youth, that was willing to serue them. Asking such a Gentlewoman, whether shee would buy a very fine paire of Twizes; which but a little before, we had cut from another Gentlewomans girdle, and hauing new ground and whet them, and made them very neat and cleane, and fitted them with a new cace, and a new ribond, we sold them afterwards away for new ware. Sometimes, we would make show to goe into some house to make water, and if we found, that there was a stable there, or other by-roomes be∣longing vnto it, in thither would we goe, where we should meet with a horse-cloath, a curry-combe, a syve, or the horse-mans cloake; and when we could not come to finger any thing else, we should euermore be sure of bridles, and collars, and stirrops, and the like kinde of tackling for their Mules and their Hackneys, and if by misfortune, any one should come in, and see vs there, loosing presently our cod-pisse point, we would quat vs downe in a corner of the stable, as if we had beene driuen in thither by necessitie to doe that seruice, which no body can doe for vs but our selues. And in case they should say vnto vs (as now and then they would) you rogue, you thiefe, what make you here? We would then presently rise vp, and pulling vp our breeches to make them fast, and be gone, we would while we were a trussing, mildly make answer; I pray Sir be not offended; take heed to whom, and of what you speake; for here is no such kinde of man, as you talke of, no thiefe, no rogue, but one that is true and honest, and meanes you no harme; I was ouer-taken in the street, and forced to come in vpon meere necessitie, and therefore I hope you will hold me excused.

Some did beleeue vs, and some not, but how-soeuer we past well enough with it. Sometimes, we would presse farther in, and rummage as it were all the whole house, from one end to the other, till we found somewhat that we might finger, and carry away; and if by chance we were spyde by any, we would come crowching vnto them with teares in our eyes, beseeching them for Gods sake, to giue vs an almes, being euen ready to starue for want of food. With these, and other the like cunning shifts, there was not so much as a nayle in any mans wall, which we did not keepe a reckning of, and tooke away when we saw our time. I was a pretty little wagg, slender of growth, rather leane then otherwise, very witty, full of inuention, and aboue all, as nimble, and light-footed as a Bucke. I alwayes laid wait in the day time, how and where I should compasse my exployts in the night, neuer imbroyling my selfe in any businesse at vnseasonable times, for the better auoyding of all suspition; and

taking little sleepe when I had any thing to set my selfe about. In the day time, wee did (like good Christians) visit Churches, goe to Masse, heare Sermons, frequent your Indulgences, Iubiles, Feasts, and Processions. Wee were present at your Play-houses, and Courts of Iustice, at all Executions, and all other publike meetings and assemblies, where there was any con∣curse of people, any pressing or thronging in the streets, striuing to be al∣waies in the thickest of the croud, entring in and out amongst them, passing to and fro a thousand times. For euery bout afforded vs worke enough, making vpon euery returne a good and gainefull voyage. One while we brought away daggers, stolne from mens backs; other-while handkerchers pickt out of their pockets; purses, rosarios, twizes, iewels worne by women; and such odde toyes, as your children weare about their necks. And when all fail'd, and that I could not make that purchase as I would, with my sheeres (which I had euer ready in my hand) looke where the best and fairest cloake was in all the com∣panie, I did whip from behinde, or the one side of it (if by chance it slipt off from his shoulders in the throng) as much as would make three or foure payre of soles, or some such odd knack, or other. Wherein, besides the profit, I tooke exceeding great pleasure, in seeing these gallants afterwards looke like the picture of S. Martin, with little more then halfe a cloake; which was a ridicu∣lous thing to behold, and did often moue me to much laughter. And when they them-selues had found it out, they began to winde and turne it this way, and that way, putting the part offended, either vnder or ouer their arme, as would make best for the hiding of that blemish; and the people when they once began to perceiue it, they straight way flockt about them, who blushing to see their garment cut short to their waste, discouering those parts which shame bids vs hide, they went flinching away, and got them home through by-lanes, and such places, as were least frequented.

And when this would not fadge with vs, we would cunningly steale to your silke, or cloath of gold hangings, for we neuer stood vpon termes of cour∣tesie, or were more dainty with these, then the rest; for the greater was the va∣lue of it, the greater was our gaine; and from the lower part of these hangings, would we snip off a peece or two, according as occasion, or time, would giue vs leaue; endeuouring euer to cut in the best and choisest place, and in the tur∣ning of a hand, we made thereof either womens bodies, mens a 1.166 monteras, pur∣ses, pinpillowes, sleeues for little children, and a thousand other the like fidling things; still ordering and husbanding it so, that we would not lose the least thread, but did alwayes contriue it in that manner, as might make best for that vse, whereunto we would put it.

By little and little, we came approaching neerer and neerer vnto the Citie, drawne thither vpon the fame and report, that there was a new Uice-Roy al∣ready come thither, or would be there very shortly. For at such solemne feasts as these, where there is running of Buls, bayting of Beares, and the like pa∣stimes, besides your great Fayres and markets, we will not sticke, for a need, to come a hundred miles off, that we may be present at them. Our expence vpon the way, was alwayes very little; for we still made our prouision, as we went along, and what we got in one place, that we spent in another, taking vp hens here, capons there, in such a village chickens, and such a doue-house pigeons, pigs, gammons of bacon, and any thing that was tame, and would come to hand, neuer escapt our hands, furnishing our selues with all other ne∣cessarie implements, that might serue for the conueniencie of our iourney, were it for our dyet, or our lodging. And as a man that desires to haue a good lodging in his Inne, must haue a care to come there before the Sunne be set: so in that short time which we had to spend vntill it were towards night, and that the houre was come, wherein we did vsually retire our selues, we did runne ouer all the open places about the Countrey, and if we found any breach

in any wall of a house, we would prie what we could proule from thence, and seeke to make our entry; Which that we might doe with the more conueni∣ency, and lesser hazard of our persons, we would begin to beg an almes, saying; That we were poore Students, and being driuen to great necessity, could not for want of meanes returne handsomely into our owne Countrey. Which we did not so much demand of them, to the end they should giue vs any thing, as thereby to seeke occasion to steale something from them, hauing an eye still to∣wards the hen-roost, casting with our selues how we might dis-people that house of its pullen.

Besides, for your Innes, and your Farmers back-sides, I carried alwaies with me a good angle-rod with a strong hooke and line, baited with a crust of bread, or some sixe graines of wheate, to catch there-with whatsoeuer came in my way, and I seldome put in my rod, but I pluckt out a fish as long as mine arme. But when it fell out so vnfortunately with vs, that we could not get any booty, and that (as it is in the Prouerbe) Se caya lacasa; the house was fallen dawne; and that there was no victualls there to be found; yet come the worst, that * 1.167 could come, wee should be sure to meet with as good and fat a Calfe, as any man need to eate, the world could not afford better Veale. As soone as we came to Naples, at our first comming we draue for some few dayes, a very good trade, and made very quicke returnes, with a great deale of profit to our pur∣ses, and all things did succeed very well with vs; we tooke great paines, and we reapt great gaines. I had put my selfe into such apparell, that my presence might promise the reputation of an honest man; so that any man might very well be cozned by this Carde, (this outside I meane of mine) so faire did I co∣lour for it. So that if the entrance which wee made, like to our juego de can̄as, glittering in gold, and all kind of brauerie, had not through my lacke of pati∣ence receiued in the end a foile, I might haue continued there in very good fashion. But I had worke enough to doe, to saue my skinne, from being pluckt ouer my eares, and to keepe my bones from being broken. It was mine owne fault, that my egges prou'd addle, and were not so well hatcht as they might haue beene. I may thanke no body for it but my selfe. But God be thanked, that it was no worse with mee; for I might haue receiu'd much more harme thereby, and therewith did I comfort my selfe.

One of my Camerades was of that Countrey, seruant to a Regent of t•…•… Col∣laterall Councell, whose father had also seru'd him heretofore, he was des•…•…ous to make himselfe knowne vnto him, whereupon hee went to kisse his hands, nor did his owne returne empty from him; But (being very glad to see him) offered to doe him any kindnesse that lay in his power; nor were they Cour∣tiers vvords, sprinckled vvith holy-vvater, for he did as vvell doe, as say; For seldome, and to few, doth it happen in Court, to eate together in one plate, and at one boord; But when the minde is generous and noble, it euermore takes * 1.168 delight to giue; and by so much the more is encreased, by how much the more we craue. For it hath alwaies beene a peculiar property belonging to giuing, to make the doner famous and renowned to the world. And the more subiects they light on to conferre such courtesies, so much the more glory doe they gaine vnto them-selues. Presently, without any more adoe, hee employ'd him in some businesses, and those of some worth and moment, and well deseruing a worthier subiect. Vnder his protection we went vp and downe the Citie, as if we had beene so many Vice-Kings of the Country, liuing without control∣ment, and no man daring to meddle with vs.

Being thus seated on the warme side of the hedge, presuming vpon his fa∣uour and countenance, we did lash out a little too much, in vndertaking such and such things, as were beyond the reach of our braines, and would require stronger wits then we had any. He was the tongue, wherewith we spake; he did direct vs, whither wee were to goe; and what wee were to doe; at what

houres, we might with most safety be abroad; where we might best make our entry; whom we might best trust; and of whom we had most reason to be afraid. For (as we shall tell you hereafter) they that commit the greatest robberies, and such thefts, as are more famous then any other, more cunningly carried, of a higher straine and nature then the rest, and of the greatest importance, are those that are nearest in their attendance about the Ministers of Iustice. For these men, feare nothing, they are in fauour with their Lord, necessity oppres∣seth * 1.169 them, occasion is offred; God blesse euery good man from such authen∣ticall thieues, who thinke themselues authorized to steale, and that the Law either cannot, or will not, take hold of them.

I went one day a wrestling à braço e 1.170 partido (as they say) with my thoughts, that is to say, vpon equall tearmes, without any manner of aduantage of my fellowes, out of a desire that I had to seeke out something wherewithall to en∣tertaine my selfe; for it was almost high-noone, and wee had not yet threaded our needle, nor wrought one stitch o•…•… worke. And to come home empty han∣ded, that I would not; I scorn'd not to send in my prouision before-hand, as * 1.171 holding it a great disgrace vnto me. For if my companions should chance to haue wrought their honey-combes, and that they were to bee found at home in the hiue, where we did all meete, if I should bring nothing in, b•…•…t feede vpon them store, they would vpbraid me therewith calling me idle Drone; Tit∣ting and flo•…•…ting at me, that I should offer to sit downe at boord f 1.172 with cleane hand. M•…•…aning thereby, that I had not laboured for my liuing as the rest had done, no•…•… taken the paines to foule my hands, and yet must sit downe and eate at other mens cost. Holding him for a base minded fellow, that would come to a well furnisht table, and sit downe to dinner, not hauing before-hand proui∣ded some prouision of his owne, whereon to feed. I had cast mine eye vpon a very faire house, which at the first sight seemed vnto mee, to belong to some honorable person, or principall Gentleman of that Citie. I entred as boldly into it, as if the house had beene mine owne. For (as it is in the Prouerbe) nunca el timido, fue buen cirujano; The fearfull man, neuer makes good Surgeon. Which * 1.173 kinde of Phrase, your old women in Spaine vse to their children, when they goe sneakingly and fearfully about any businesse. Anda, anda, que pareç•…•… que * 1.174 vas a hurtar; Get thee gone, get thee gone, thou goest logging and dreaming∣ly about it, as if thou wentest a filching. So that alwayes, and in all places what∣soeuer, or wheresoeuer I came, me thought I went into mine owne house, or that I did enter as it were by authority, with the Uare of Iustice in my hand, or the whole power of the Country.

I lookt about on this side, and on that side, longing that mine eyes might * 1.175 light one some-thing or other, that I might lay my hands on. At last it was my fortune to spy lying on the top of a little side-table, a faire blacke veluet Kirtle, richly embroydered, which would very well serue to make three seue∣rall sorts of garments, cassocke, and hose, and something else besides; for there were full fifteene yards in it, and might very well beseeme the wearing of the neatest and brauest Gallants in the Kingdome. I stood looking and pee•…•…ng on euery side of me, if I might goe cleanly away with this booty, that it might not cost me the laying on, and escape without danger of being beaten for my la∣bour; and by good hap I did not meete with any to hinder me in this my pur∣pose; Whereupon I tooke it vp, and clapping it vnder mine arme, fetching two or three nimble friscals, my feete were presently vpon the threshold of the doore, making their way to goe forth into the streete: But I was no sooner come thither, but there I met full butt with the owner of the house, who was Master Datario * 1.176, a man of great place and authority in that City, who seeing me come forth with this fardle vnder mine arme, asked mee what I was, what I made there, and what was that I carried away with me? I being thus put to my shift, made a vertue of necessity, and was not long in consulting with my

my selfe for an answere, and with an vntroubled, or rather cheerefull counte∣nance, said vnto him; Sir, it is my Mistresses pleasure, that I should vntucke these pleats a little, to make the folds fall a little handsomer, and that I should lessen it a thought in the waste, for that it sits not well before; and hath giuen me in charge to dispatch it presently. Doe so I pray (my friend) quoth he, see it be done quickly, and let it be your owne hand-working, that it may not bee done amisse, and make all the haste you can. I then said to my selfe; I haue done this with mine owne hand, and I will make quicke worke with the rest. And with that I hy'd me downe the street, fetching more turnings and windings then a Snake, sometimes this way, and sometimes that way, now here, and now there, and all, that they might not find any footing of mee, if hee should chance to vncouple his hounds, and send them after me to follow mee vpon hot sent.

Anon after (as ill lucke would haue it) hee came to know how the world went, for he was no sooner come into the house, but hee found it all in an vp∣rore, some in the hall, some in the kitchen, some in one roome, and some in another, the maids of the house some vnbraced, some their haire about their eares, some with one sleeue off, and another on, some in one posture, and some in another, but all in a combustion, brauling and calling one to another, giue me the Kirtle, giue mee the Kirtle, where is the Kirtle, what is become of the Kirtle? but the Kirtle appeares not: you tooke it from my mistresse, (saies one) I laid it here, (sayes another) I left it here, (sayes a third.) Then falls the Mi∣stresse of the house a chiding, asking who came in, or out? No body could tell of any; Then (quoth she) it is likely, that some of the house must needs haue it, therefore looke it me out, and that quickly too, or else you shall soundly pay for it. There was such an out-cry, such exclamations, such a howling, such a bawling, and so hideous a noyse, as if the whole house had beene fallen to the ground; in so much, that they could not one vnderstand another.

In this hurly-burly comes me in the Master of the house, acknowledging now the error, that he had committed, in letting me goe away in that fashion; and going to pacifie his wife, he told her that a thiefe had got into the house, and carried away her Kirtle, recounting vnto her, what had passed betwixt him and my selfe, when he met me comming forth of doores. Hee presently made search after me, but I so bestir'd my stumps, that he could not then finde me out, hauing by this time both secured my person, and the Kirtle.

That night, I got me to the house of the great Constable, out of a desire that I had, to finish a peece of worke, which some few dayes before, I had drawne * 1.177 out; but my pen did so blur, that I did despaire at that time to come off cleanly with it, and though I had taken a great deale of paines that it might bee neatly and handsomely done, yet could I neuer compasse (for want of a good oppor∣tunity) to haue it fall out fairly and fitly as I would till now. Many Gentle∣men, were there met together to play, who had ordinarily three or foure tables set ready for them, and a page or two appointed to sit vp, and attend vpon them, till they gaue ouer. Euery table had his silke carpet, and two siluer candlesticks; I carried thither with me a couple that were counterfait, made of the purest Tinne I could get, and iust of the same fashion and proportion, and so like in euery respect, that you could not for their finenesse, distinguish them from the other, iumping so truly, as well in the colour, as the making, pro∣uided of purpose, for the better effecting of what I intended. I carried likewise two candles along with me, and vsing close conueyance, that they might not be seene about me, I leaned against one of the corners of the wall, as I had vsed to doe heretofore, waiting for a faire occasion to bring my proiect to passe, giuing those that were there to vnderstand, that I was a seruant to one of those Gentlemen that were at play. Two, were playing at h 1.178 çientos, at one of those tables, they call'd for lights, there was not any body there but one Page, and

he so sleepy and so drousie, that hauing call'd vnto him twice, hee did neither answer them, nor well minde what they said vnto him: I made presently in to them, and hauing my candles and candlestickes in a readinesse, which were not long a lighting, throwing one end of my cloake ouer my shoulder, as if I had beene one of the seruants of the house: I shifted the candlesticks, putting the lights into those that I had brought with me, clapping those other of siluer vnder mine arme; and so turning nimbly away from them, walking as Cats doe, softly and without any noyse, I got me quietly to my lodging, where I mixt them together with other peeces of plate, which I had in the like manner at diuers times gathered together; And for to take away all occasions of quar∣relling and wrangling, and that I might not be askt whether these are thine, or mine? Let me see the marke; Compare it with this or that other peece, and the difference will soone be decided; How came you by it? Where did you buy it? What was he that sold it you? To auoid these and the like cauills, I thought good to make sure worke with it; so I melted it (that it might not be knowne by its care-marke) all into one masse, and putting it into a fine earthen pot, I carryed it to my Captaine, that he out of the authoritie and credit that hee had abroad, might the better sell it for me.

He did so; and taking out a fifth part for himselfe, he gaue me the rest in very good Royals of plate, without defrauding me of one farthing, or the least haire of my head. It was an order amongst vs, that to him, as to our Chieftaine, we should bring all whatsoeuer we got, whereof the fifth part was his fee, which we truly and iustly paid vnto him, as a tribute that was as due to him, as that of the Indies, is to his Catholike Maiestie. No Prince in the world had more punctuall payment. And for this taxe, tallage, impost, or custome, (or whatsoeuer in that kinde you shall be pleased to call it) we were in all our dan∣gers, protected and defended by him. Let no man thinke to chew his i 1.179 meat on * 1.180 both sides of his chaps at once; and to haue all the water runne through his owne mill, and none passe besides. For there is no dignitie in this life without a pension; and nothing that a man enioyes of his estate, but he must part with some portion out of it. Euery one hath his double rowe of teeth, together with his grinders, all would faine eat. Euery poll, hath his polling. There are certaine rights and duties to be raised out of all things whatsoeuer. Imposts, and Interests, must passe to and fro in the world. One hand washeth k 1.181 another, * 1.182 and both wash the face. If one giue me a Capon, it is fit I should bestow the brawne thereof vpon him. And there is no money can be better imployd, then vpon such a good Angell as this to guard vs. There are some kinde of people so cruell and vnconscionable, that they thinke of nothing but deceit and coze∣nage, * 1.183 scooping like shouels all to themselues; they will haue all the l 1.184 bread, and the meat too; both a mans paines, and his profit; leauing vs nothing but the periculum, and the poenam, the perill, and the punishment, if it be our misfortune to be caught. They will highly praise and commend vs, that they may incou∣rage vs on to greater matters, as Pizarro did his people in the Indies. But when they giue vs most, and reward vs best, they thinke they doe vs a great fauour, if they giue vs the scraps and fragments, and what themselues know not well what to doe withall, reseruing the best and greatest part of the profit to them∣selues; as Alexandro dealt with me. But afterwards, when they see vs in di∣stresse, and that we haue need of their helpe, they will not so much as know vs; they presently strike sayle, and will not stirre a foot to succour vs.

But we, and this our Milanese (whom we made our Commander) kept very good quarter; for he would by no meanes haue any more of vs then a fifth part, which by agreement belonged vnto him. And if at any time, he hauing need of money, did intreat vs that we would lend him some, and put it to ac∣count to be paid out of his fifth part, as prizes came in; when we had furnisht him, he would presently set it downe in his booke, with an Item so much due

vnto such a one, to be paid out of my next Vales, and when that debt was satis∣fied, he would either crosse it, or write repayd in the margent; so that there was euermore an euen reckning kept betweene vs. No, no, he was none of these shuffling companions, he was wonderfull honest in sharing the spoyle with vs, leuelling all accounts, and still keeping an euen reckning with vs; and so as we had the fortune to make a good voyage, for the rest, we needed not to feare. My fellowes did not loyter but bestirred themselues lustily, and like good husbands, neuer came home with their hands in their m 1.185 bosomes, nor * 1.186 dragg'd out an empty net.

We were foure of vs in the whole; three aduenturers, to enter vpon all kinde of enterprizes, and one Captaine to fight in our defence. We would somtimes take him along with vs, & put him formost, to the end that if any one of vs should be taken napping, and the theft found about vs, he might serue to mitigate the matter, when we were thus taken in the manne•…•…, making vs to restore that which we had taken, (that I may not say stolne away) giuing vs two or three boxes on the care, and as many kicks on the breech, dismissing vs from thence in a diuels name, saying withall; Get you gone, you rogue, be packing I say like an arrant rascall, and false thiefe as thou art, sirrha, let me see your backe, and I aduise you let me neuer heare or see, that you fall any more a filching, leaue your stealing, and liue honestly, else I sweare vnto thee by the faith of an honest man, I will cause thee to be whipt, or sent to the Galleys. Being thus curstly vsed by him, first kickt and beaten, and afterwards roundly rated, they that were present, taking him to be a good honest Gentleman, and a mercifull minded man, they were content to let vs goe, and so did we scape that storme by his meanes, whereas otherwise wee had beene ouertaken therewith.

But some againe, were such hard-hearted people, and of that stubborne and peruerse nature, that they did set vpon vs like fierce dragons, and were so full of rage and choller, that nothing could pacifie their wrath, but did still presse vs more and more, and nothing would content them, but our imprisonment, whipping, hanging, all was too little for vs. They would first see vs clapt vp safe, and afterwards talke with vs at leysure. To such rough-hewen natures, and boysterous dispositions, our Captaine would come to the parties, whom we had wronged, and tell them; Doe not foyle your hands with such a filthy rogue as this is, giue him a hundred kicks, and let him goe like a villaine and thiefe as he is, but doe not cause him to be apprehended, you see he is a poore rascall, and if you commit him to prison, there will he starue, and be eaten vp with lice; and what pleasure can you take in the destruction of such a ragged snake, who in himselfe is so wretched a soule already? And with that, crying out; Thou vngracious vnlucky villaine, they would giue vs such iobs, such pushes, such shocks, and iustlings, and thrust vs with that violence from them, that they would make vs to root vp the earth with our noses, and only thereby to free vs out of their hands, who had vs in hold.

But if any one should be so stiffe, and so hard laced, that nothing could moue him to pitie, nothing worke our inlargement, we vsed our best endeuour to get from them; if that would not serue the turne, vve vvould stand vpon our iustification, and not sticke (and that stoutly too) to tell this or that other to his teeth, tha•…•… he lyde in his throat, and tha•…•… •…•…e vvere as honest men as he, or the b•…•…st of them all: And vvhilest vve vvere thus striuing to be gone, our Cap∣taine * 1.187 vvould interpose himselfe vnder colour of pacifying the matter, and vvould helpe to part vs, by his comming in betweene vs, and so free vs from out their clutches, and set vs at liberty. And if need vvere, (vvhen all this vvould not serue the turne) hee did throvv a n 1.188 bone amongst them, and vvould seeke some occasion or other, prouoking them by vvords, to fall to blowes, quieting the lesser tumult by the greater, and so made a shift to

scuffle away, and to dis-imbroyle our selues of this troublesome businesse.

At other times, vvhen vve vvere running away vvith that vvhich vve had stolne, and vvere hardly followed, euen close at the heeles of vs, one of our fellowes vvould come athwart him that pursued vs, and stepping our iust before him, vvould detaine him for a vvhile, asking him vvhat vvas the mat∣ter, and vvhat troubled him, that he made such haste, vvho it vvas that had done him vvrong, together vvith the nature of the iniurie, and so vvould not suffer him to passe on, as if he had desired to make peace, and to pacifie both parties. And albeit he would not giue him any answer, (for that his businesse required haste) yet were it more, or lesse, that he thus entertained the time with him, euery the least delay, were it neuer so little, was enough to make vs, to our great aduantage, gaine ground of him; howbeit they that flie, haue al∣wayes the start of them that follow; and feare, in such cases, doth euermore clap wings to our feet. Whereas they that runne after others, doe naturally grow quickly weary, & beat themselues out of breath, partly being stifled with the heat of passion, and partly out of the minde that they haue to doe another a shrewd turne, which doth much puzzell them, notwithstanding that they striue and labour all that they can to ouertake him: but it is impossible to striue against nature, which doth euer fauour those, that desire to saue themselues. Thus by one meanes or other, they were still detayned, and mist of their purpose.

Other-whiles, they would be bound for our forth-comming, giue their words for our truth and honestie, and though we had gone sheere away with that which we had stolne, they would plead our innocencie, especially, not be∣ing taken with the theft; for by this time we had conuay'd it some three or foure streets of, where there was no more newes to be heard of it. So that by their good words, their intercessions, and their being bound for vs bodie for bodie, we were freed from that euill opinion, which before was conceiued of vs. So that by hooke, or by crooke, this way, or that way, one or another, we went through-stitch with our businesse, maugre all the world, or though spite should haue done her worst; for we had still one tricke or other, when it came to a dead lift, wherewithall to serue our turne.

But once, being more carelesse, then I ought to haue beene, I would needs goe forrage alone by my selfe, without euer a skout to scoure the coast, and though I should haue taken one along with me, I perswade my selfe, as the case then stood with me, he would haue steaded me little, or nothing at all. And thus it was.

My sinnes (for it could be nothing else) had drawne me one day forth of * 1.189 the Citie to walke abroad and take the ayre, and comming neere vnto a riuer side, where in a medow vpon the grasse were laid out a great many linnen cloathes a drying, and the woman that lookt vnto them, sitting close, to shade her-selfe from the heat of the Sunne, in a little hollow cleft of an old wall, that was not farre off; me thought the linnen needed no more drying, and whether it did or no, it was all one to me, wet or dry, it made no great matter, either way (so I might haue what I look't for) would serue my turne well enough. I had a moneths minde, to folde vp two or three of the finest and newest shirts, that were there, thinking with my selfe, that they would sit well with my bodie, and so very easily and fairely I tooke them vp; but fearing lest any body should come in the meane while, and spie what I was a doing, I lapt them vp in haste, not being willing to stay to folde them there, but to doe that at more leysure, when I came to my lodging. The good woman did not see what I did, for her backe was all this while towards me; but there was not one wanting, who shrewdly complayning of me, not running (to make me the more secure) but walking a good round pace towards her, aduised her thereof.

This poore woman, when since heard how the world went, sets me out a throat, whose shrill sound did ascend as high as heauen. And leauing a little

girle, that shee had there, to looke vnto the rest of the linnen, shee began to runne after me. So that I seeing my selfe in this strait, I dissembled the matter as well as I could, and without either turning my face towards her, or mending my pace, I walked soberly and demurely along, as if shee had nothing to doe with me; letting (as I went along) my ware fall to the ground, going on still as I did before, without any perturbation of countenance, or inlarging of my steps; thinking with my selfe, that when this wicked woman had recouered that which she lost, she would therewith haue been contended, and rested quiet: but shee did not leaue me so; for if shee cryde out before, now shee made such a noyse, and sent forth such a loud clamour, that the whole field did ring of the peale, which that shrill clapper of hers made. And for that we were not farre from the Towne, nor in a solitarie place, that was free from company, the out∣cryes that shee made, were heard by many; insomuch that great store of all sorts of people came running in, especially boyes and little children, besides a great number of dogs, barking and bawling, as if they had beene mad, com∣ming about me as thicke as bees; being confounded, and ready almost to haue runne out of my wits with that tumultuous hurry, and horrible stirre they made. And some young lads, which fell in with these lesser beagles, to make the cry the fuller, when they vnderstood of the businesse, were ready to swal∣low me vp aliue, from whose power (so violently were they bent against me) it was impossible for me to scape. From that day forward, I began to stand in feare of this little frye, which heretofore I was neuer afraid of. These little minowes, were they, that by persecuting of me, did vndoe me.

When I heard Sayavedra say so, there presently came into my minde a fa∣mous drunkard in Madrid, who being kickt and spurn'd, and mightily abused * 1.190 by the Boyes that had got about him; when hee came to the end of the street, hee stoopes mee downe and takes vp a couple of stones, and holding one in the one hand, and the other in the other, leaning himselfe against a wall, hee said thus vnto them: No more, no more (my good Boyes) it is enough; stay here, stay here (sweet Children) for it is not fit you should goe any farther. And therefore (my pretty hearts) let mee intreat you to goe backe, and not trouble mee, or your selues any longer: for I am very well satisfied with those courte∣sies I haue already receiued from you; for the which I kindly thanke you. O∣therwise, I haue nothing to returne you in requitall, but these stones, which I shall freely bestow vpon you, though it cost mee the laying on; so that some of you, I beleeue, will be better paid for your paines then you expect. Where∣vpon they seeing him thus resolute, they sneakt away one by one, and let the poore man alone, who afterward went quietly along about his busines. If Sayave∣dra had taken the like course, he might peraduenture haue had the like successe.

But he, continuing his discourse went on and said; surely where this rude rabble once bands and lincks it selfe together, no good man can doe ought that is good, nor any honest man passe in quiet for them. I sought now to flye from them, as a man would fly from the gallowes: and I was in a good way to∣wards it, and wanted little of comming thither. For, by seeking to flye from their hands I fell into those of the Iustice; who had now caught me in their net, vvhence there vvas no hope to scape.

When I saw this misfortune vvas fallen vpon me: I made no more adoe, but sent presently to my Captaine, aduising him how the case stood with me, who as soone as hee vnderstood of it, made all the haste he could vnto mee, was with me (as they say) ere a man could say this; and well instructed mee what I should both say and doe. T•…•…at done, hee went to the Notarie, telling him that hee knew mee to bee well descended, that I was honourably borne both by Fa∣ther and Mother, and of as ancient and noble a House as any was in Spaine: and that it was not possible, nor was it to bee beleeu'd, that such a Gentleman as I was, would commit so foule a fact.

But say (which cannot sinke into my head) that it should be true, it is not a thing so much to be wondred at; for that he might either doe it out of youth∣fulnesse (which is incident now and then to play such kinde of idle prankes) or out of want, lacking money, and being loath to begge or borrow, or forced thereunto out of pure hunger; and therefore chose rather to hazard than fa∣mish his person. Besides, it is a matter of no moment, a toy, a trifle, a thing not to be made any reckoning of, as well in regard of its small value, as also in respect of the Gentlemans qualitie, and the noblenesse of his house. What with these good words and something else that he did besides, within some two houres after I was freed out of Prison: and (had God beene pleased so to haue it) I could haue wisht I might not haue come out then, nor three houres after that; nay, not till darke night: but since it was his good will and pleasure that it should succeed as it did with me, blessed bee his name for euer, good or ill must be welcome from his hand. Sinne, that Catchpole of Consci∣ence, that churlish Porter that keepes account of our actions, and has an eye to what wee doe, who had still persecuted me at the very thresholds of the dores wherinto I entred, was not vnmindful to do the like by me in that of the Prison, when I was rea•…•…y to come out: for euen as I was putting my foote ouer the threshold, who should I meet full butte, but Maister Datario? who came thi∣ther to free a Prisoner.

As soone as hee saw mee, hee presently knew mee, and withall pusht me so violently backe, that I fell flat vpon my backe to the ground; and then com∣ming fiercely vpon mee that hee might hold me, while hee had me at this ad∣uantage, and calling to the Keeper, committed me anew, and followed the ac∣cusation so hard against me, that neither intreaties nor any offers to make him satisfaction for his kirtle, were able to make him to surcease his sute. Hee was a powerfull man, I vsed all possible diligences: but neither did my pleading that I was a Gentleman, nor the tendernesse of my yeares, preuaile so farre, as to bring mee fairely off. And, as if they had done me a deed of charity, and be∣stowed an almes on mee, by way of trans-action and agreement, as if they had shewed mee all the fauour in the world, they gaue mee such a heauy sentence that I shall neuer forget it vvhile I liue. I vvent for shirts, and they stript mee of mine from my shoulder to my vvaste, banishing mee from thence for euer. I had my payment, but the blockhead had not his Kirtle: see how a vvilfull foole, such a one as this vvas, stood in his owne light; being more vvilling to doe me a mischiefe then himselfe a pleasure; and to lose his goods, rather then to let mee loose: vvhich hee might easily haue recouered of me, if he vvould haue suffered mee to stay in that City.

Well, I vvas forced to forgoe Naples, and vvith it, all my old friends and ac∣quaintance: I packt vp all my trinkets together, and that poore pittance that * 1.191 I had pickt vp by mine owne industry, and departed from thence, vvandring vp and downe Italy, till I came to Bologna, where Alessandro receiued me into his seruice: who did vsually go out of that City, to fetch in some booty or other; and hauing sped vvell hee returned home in safety. When wee vvere in Rome, and came in vnto you, when you vvere in that thrust and throng of people, we did not so much intend your good, as expect that some farther quarrell vvould haue growneth reupon, vvherby vvee might vvith the more safety haue got some Cloakes or Hats: but that occasion being taken away, missing thus of our purpose, wee began to plot how wee might commit this theft, making me (as their •…•…anner was) o 1.192 Cabeça de Lobo, the Wolfes head, the instrument of their profit; vvhilst they kept their owne fingers out of the fire, and would be sure to be out of the danger of Gun-shot. This Story vvas he telling me, vvhen vvee were now come to our iournies end. And so ceasing to talke any farther of it, vve came into our Inne, vvhere vve presently had that prouided for vs vvhich vvas fitting for trauellers that were not to make any long stay.

CHAP. VI.

Sayavedra meets in Milan with a friend of his that seru'd a Merchant; Guzman de Alfarache layes a witty plot how to rob him.

WIth a great deale of attention and admiration, had Sayave∣dra all this iourney tyed mine eares to his tongue. And during the rest of the vvay, till vvee reacht to Milan, vvee vvere neuer out of matter; but kept the ball still vp; hee tossing one tale to me, and I returning another to him: so that our Discourse neuer made a fault; but vvas (being both good Players) vvell maintaind and kept vp betweene vs. But I had a great contradiction in my selfe, and could hardly bee brought to beleeue that men of noble birth, Sonnes of such vvorthy Parents, should suffer themselues to bee thus violently haled by their Passions; that, forgetting the respect due to their bloud and Gentry, (the remembrance vvhereof should cause them to goe on in an honou∣rable and ciuill course of life) doe notwithstanding commit base and infamous actions, by robbing others of their goods and honours: for in very truth, hee * 1.193 that lofeth his vvealth, loseth both the one and the other; for euery man is so farre forth esteemed and honoured, as hee is rich and vvealthy. Whereupon I said secretly to my selfe; surely if Sayavedras father left him so rich as hee him∣selfe reporteth hee did, how comes it (quoth I) to passe, that hee is turned thiefe? and that hee takes more pleasure to follow this lewd kinde of life, and to endure these shamefull affronts, then to liue in esteeme and reputation in his owne Countrey? If vvee doe ill, vvee therefore doe it because it carries a faire appearance vvith it, and shewes vnto vs a certaine shadow, or a kinde of resemblance of some goodnesse or other; but in suffering such indignities as hee hath done, there is no hope thereof, no colour at all for it. But I presently recall'd this rash censure, and sodainly taking vp my selfe, I fell to excusing of him, and began vpon better deliberation to say with my selfe; It may bee hee went from home being a childe as I did. And so, considering the relation that hee had made vnto mee, mine owne proper steppes represented themselues vn∣to mee, and those lewd courses that my selfe had runne. But I afterwards came againe to my selfe and said: But suppose all this to bee true vvhich hee hath said: Why did hee not turne ouer a new leafe vvhen hee had the vse of rea∣son, and came to bee a man, taking vpon him the profession of a Souldier? He might answere likewise for himselfe and say; Why did not I so to? I see a more in another mans eye, and cannot behold the beame that is in mine owne.

Military Profession is a pleasing thing, and hath many motiues to draw a mans affection thereunto. They haue good pay, they passe well enough with it; it teacheth a man hardnesse, it maketh him to forget his dainty fare at home, and boldly to aduenture his life to winne honour, and to doe his Countrey seruice. But they pay dearly for it, they haue too hard a bargaine of i•…•…, it is a kinde of taking vp of money at extreame rates, and excessiue interest, for to satisfie a debt of lesser value. They must serue long before they can come to any thing, rise betimes in the morning, watch all night, haue his shoulders pincht with the heauy weight of a Musquet, stand Centinell for the space of full foure houres, and two at the least, when hee is a 1.194 Centinela perdida, without budging or mouing but a foote from that place where they haue once set him: let it raine, thunder or lighten neuer so fast; freze, snow, or blow the windes ne∣uer so hard, let the weather be as sharpe as sharpe may be, all is one, he must stand to his tackling. And when hee hath done all this, like a souldier and a braue fel∣low,

when hee shall returne home safe to his lodging (not reckoning those that miscarry by this meanes) hee hath not so much as a Candle to light him to bed, nor fire to dry either his wet or frozen carcasse, nor bread to put in his mouth, nor wine to wash downe those crummes, being hunger∣staru'd, all mire and dirt, all to bee rent and torne, but not a ragge of comfort. And therefore considering the hard life that a Souldier leades, and how ill they are rewarded, hazarding their owne liues to saue other mens, I doe not much blame Sayavedra that hee did not turne Souldier.

But for his elder Brother, Sen̄or Iuan Marti, or Mateo Luxan (leauing him to make choyce of one of the two, as shall stand best with his Worships liking) who was of age sufficient, when his father died, for to discerne betwixt ill and good, who had a good house to put his head in, and good meanes to maintaine it, and to haue liu'd richly and plentifully, and in good reputation and credit in his owne Country, what a Diuell mou'd him, or what hellish temptation came into his minde, to neglect his owne busines, and so foolishly thrust him∣selfe to intermeddle in other folkes matters, and to fall at last to stealing of cloakes. How much better would it haue beene for him to haue employd his person in some honourable entertainment or other? Hee was a good Grama∣rian, hee had studied the Lawes, and might (if hee would himselfe) haue easily come to be a Doctor.

But happely, these and the like doe thinke, That there needs no more to make a thiefe, then to say; I will be a thiefe. And that all shall succeed as hap∣pily with them, as themselues could wish it. But in good sooth, I must beate them out of this errour, and plainly tell them; That there is more in it, then * 1.195 so. That it will cost them no small labour, and withall they must incurre a great deale of danger. Besides, I cannot well tell you, whether or no, there be so many rules amongst the Lawyers, as he needs to haue, who meanes to proue a good thiefe indeed. For say, that there be two in a Towne, that emulate one another, and contend for the victorie, and that the one after a great deale of strife, and stiffe standing out, will at last concurre with the other, who hath gotten him the name and fame of all that perfection that belongs to your b 1.196 Cocoquismo, and Germania, the true Art of filching and stealing, and hath show'd himselfe an excellent Proficient in that Science, I can assure you, on my credit, hee had need carry a close hand, and looke narrowly to his businesse. For, to my seeming, if that be true, (as I thinke it was) which Sayavedra deli∣uered vnto me; he was a poore vnfortunate pilchard, a kind of shotten Herring; and I, in comparison of him, a great goodly Wha•…•…e. Yet for all this, did not I dare, (fearing I should proue my selfe a dunce, when I came to be examined by the masters of that faculty) to stand for my grace, nor pretend the Cap and Hood, as doubting, how I should be able to answer for my degree, if I were well canuast by those that should oppose me. Sayavedra, and his brother (doubt∣lesse) did flatter themselues, and were truly perswaded, that with these poore dry petty thefts, ill seasoned, without any good taste, sweet sauour, or any the least pleasant relish in the world, they might boldly goe into the Schooles, and there reade in the c 1.197 Regis professor his chaire, their solemne Lectures for their Doctorship. They did happely thinke with them-selues, that there was no more in it, then what a good plaine Country-fellow said, that was a kinde of poore silly Alcalde, in a little Village, called d 1.198 Almonaçide Curita, in the king∣dome of Toledo, who hauing made a watring place for the towne Cattle to

drinke at, when he had finisht it, and made it handsome, hauing fitted it with cesternes, and whatsoeuer else hee in his wisedome held to be necessary, hee call'd the wisedome of the towne together, the whole body of the Councell, where in their presence, he caus'd the conduit pipes to be opened, and to let out the water, that they might giue their iudgement and opinion, how they lik't of it? One said, the trough stood too high; another, too low. The Al∣calde, seeing his worke found fault withall, was not halfe well pleased with it, but scorning to be dasht out of countenance, and ouer-borne by his inferiours, he steps himselfe to the trough, and there his worship drinkes: And when hee had done, stepping backeward about some two strides, or thereabouts, looking angerly, yet grauely enough vpon them, he first spits, then wipes his mouth, and lastly sayes vnto them; Gods nigs, (my masters) you need not find such fault with it, there is no more to be said in this matter: for being that I can make a shift to drinke at it, there is neuer a beast but may do the like, if he haue a minde to drinke.

Euen iust so is it with your young thieues that are fresh-water-Souldiers, and not well beaten to the businesse, who thinke all things easie, that they take in hand, and when they heare of such a famous thiefe, and that he hath done won∣ders in that kinde, will not sticke to say; Tush, this is nothing: We can doe as much as this, and more too. But I promise you on my honest word, that such as these, who haue so good a conceit of them-selues, that may bee said of them: which another Country fellow, not farre from thence, dwelling in * 1.199 Mancha, said to two other fellowes, who earnestly contended about the foale of a Mare; One said, it was a Horse; No, said the other, it is a Mule: Then a third person, that was in their company, drawing neerer and neerer, and roun∣ding about the beast, and viewing, and viewing him againe, after hee had throughly marked his musle, and his eares, hee cryes out aloud; Gods-bores, what a deale of doe is here about nothing? You are a couple of coxe-combes both of you; for I can assure you, this is as very an Asse, as my father. He that will boast himselfe to be a thiefe, and desires to bee listed in the rolle of those that haue gotten greatest fame, let him endeuour to doe things brauely, let him be an honourable thiefe, and not of that basenesse of minde, as to stoope so low, as to rob an hearbe-wifes shop of a rope of onions, or Tops and Gigs, and such other toyes as little children vse to play withall, which serue but from hand to mouth, to feed other thieues withall; who will vse thee no otherwise, then men doe their slaues: you must pay them daily tribute, or else you must be packing; they will not care a pin for you. And yet for these petty thefts (though thou thinkst to scape with them, as things of nothing,) they may chance to chaine thee to the gallies, if not halter thee at the gallowes. A man should not (me thinkes) so much vnder-value his owne worth, as to prostitute his life to danger, and to lay open his shoulders to shame, for bables and trifles; nor, is it fit, that for so little, a man should pay so much. That a man should bee such a foole, as to indanger his necke for a Kirtle, or a couple of shirts) Quien ca•…•…i∣sas hurta, e 1.200 jubon espera; He that steales a shirt, liues in hope to haue a doublet too. Let such a white-liuerd-whoreson, doe that, which that valiant Cap∣taine Capin Uitelo aduiseth; f 1.201 Elmercader, que su trato no entiende, çierre la tien∣da; That Merchant, that vnderstands not his trade, let him shut vp his shop.

But to let these thieues alone, and to come home to my selfe; what could I now doe, if I should come to be put to it? What's become of all my cunning thefts? I doubt me, I should be to seeke, how, where, and which way to begin. The Art of it, is gone from me, but not the feare. Euery thing hath its course, and its time, it is now a great while agoe since I finger'd my fleame or lancent, or that I did let any man blood, my hand is nothing so nimble as it was, it is growne slow and dull, and knowes not well where to pricke the veine. Beleeue it, There is no such Master as Practice. Vse, and exercise, are excellent things, * 1.202

to keepe the hand in vre: Which when it is wanting, the vnderstanding gathers mosse, waxeth mouldy, and growes rusty.

When we were come to Milan, we kept vacation for three or foure dayes. * 1.203 For I durst not as yet aduenture to play. I was loath to haue any thing to doe with your men of warre, for they alwayes play very warily. Your Souldiers are subtile cunning gamesters, and aboue all, beare a most malitious minde against a mans money. They are neuer quiet, till they haue it. All, or the most part of them, would seeke to play vpon some one aduantage or other. I could not make vse of my trickes, nor would they permit me to put them vpon them, yet I must, whether I would or no, be forced to giue way to theirs. Besides, of them I was sure to get but little, but might be in election to lose much. I was not minded to doe any thing there, saue onely to round the City, to see what a manner of thing it was, what their trafficke, and such other greatnesses as it should afford our sight, and so afterwards to bid it farewell. And being thus re∣solued, I went to walke all that day from shop to shop, where I saw so many cu∣riosities that I was taken with great admiration in the beholding of them, as also in the great trade, that was there driuen, euen in lesser things, that were of meaner value.

Standing one day in the midst of the Market-place, there came to Sayave∣dra, a handsome young youth, honestly clad, and well behau'd, and both in his garbe and fashion, a very fine Spaniard. But because his backe was towards me, I could not then discerne, nor vnderstand more of him, but that they went a little a side off from me, where alone by them-selues, they entertained talke a good while: which put me in a great muse, thinking with my selfe, what might be the cause, that these two should treat together with that secresie, not hauing (as I did imagine with my selfe) euer seene one another before. Notwithstan∣ding, that I might not breake off their discourse, to the end that I might see whither it tended, I stood still, and did not moue from the place wherein I was, hauing still an eye, lest they should get out of my sight, obseruing their proceedings, and that if they should chance to go towards my lodging, I might (taking the start of them,) be there before them. And euer and anon, mine eye was vpon them, but yet kept me still where I was, to the end that they likewise might not shift a foot, and so slip from me.

For, I did consider with my selfe; if I should now call him vnto mee, and aske him, what it was they talked of, Sayavedra might take occasion to make what excuse he list himselfe, and might make me this answer; that by reason of my calling him away, they had not finished their discourse, nor as yet enter∣tained talke to any purpose. Whereupon, for my better satisfaction, I thought it my best course, to continue there a little longer, and to leaue them a large field, wherein to expatiate their minds, for I had no such earnest businesse elsewhere, as might presse me to be gone. Now when it was almost dinner∣time, this young youth tooke his leaue, and went about his businesse; And I was likewise willing to doe the like; for all this while I was wonderfull iealous, and had a strong suspition, that they had plotted together to put a tricke vpon me. And Sayavedra, not saying a word to me, nor I to him, my feare was there∣by the more increased, and began more and more to doubt what their drift might be. Watching him with no lesse care then a Cat would watch a Mouse. For Suspition, is a shrewd worme, which lies still gnawing at the heart; nor is * 1.204 it to be held a vice, when it setles it selfe vpon a vicious man. For, accordingly as the natures and conditions of men are, so haue we reason to be more, or lesse suspitious: Fearing euery man so farre forth, as his fashion and carriage may occasion this feare. But for as much as the desire that we haue after this, or that other thing, makes vs to rush violently on, & break through the bars of all diffi∣culties whatsoeuer, although I would faine haue held peace, and did striue all that I could to keepe in this tongue of mine, yet could I hold no longer, (no

though my life had layen vpon it) but I must needs aske him; who that young man was, and what might be the subiect of this their long discourse? yet did I for beare for the present, making no words thereof till I had dined, and then taking my time, calling Sayavedra vnto me, I said thus vnto him; That young man, that was with you this morning, me thinks I haue (if I be not much mistaken) seene him heretofore in Rome. Is not his name Mendoça?

No Sir, (said Sayavedra) his name is Aguilera; nor hath he his name for * 1.205 nought: for he is an Eagle that will flie at any thing, nothing comes amisse to him, he is still ready vpon all occasions. He is a good fellow, and a fine compa∣nion; he is likewise a brother of the Companie, and such a one, as none of them all can out-strip him, he hath more tricks then a hundred of them, there is more resort to his Lectures, then to all the other Readers beside, put them all together.

O, this Aguilera hath tickling tallons, and what he once seazes on, is sure his owne, he goes sheere away with it, and tis neuer heard of any more. He hath a quicke apprehension, a nimble wit, a strong braine, a sound iudgement, he is an excellent pen-man, and such an Accomptant, either for the keeping of a Merchants booke, or summing vp of any recknings whatsoeuer, that I know not his fellow. We haue knowne one another these many yeeres, we haue tra∣uayled together, and endured many particular troubles, and perils. And now he hath beene at me, to put me vpon one, which may turne to our exceeding either great good, or hurt, it being with vs, as with those that goe to Sea, ei∣ther a happy voyage, or a miserable ship-wracke. For he that will goe to Sea, must resolue before-hand to encounter with dangers; especially, being that betweene our death, and our life, there is no more then the springing of a planke, or the slipping of a cord.

He gaue me an account, how he came to this Citie, with a purpose to seeke out as well as he could some meanes whereby to liue. But, because he would not ingulphe himselfe, before he had first sounded the water, and that he might not within two dayes after his arriuall, be taken vp for a vagabond, or some master∣lesse-hound, he had by good hap lighted vpon an entertaynment, which might quit cost without suspition; for he had now placed himselfe with a Merchant of this Citie, who had receiued him into his seruice for the goodnesse of his hand, and hath seru'd him now a yeere, and somewhat more very faithfully and truly, looking when he might play the iade with him, and giue him a sound kicke with his heeles, and get safe away from him, as your Mules vse to doe, when they once come to be seuen yeere old; who kicke at those, that haue kept them.

He farther told me, that we should lay our heads together, and draw one or two good fellowes into our companie, and ioyne together, to knead such a cake, and to make vs such a swinging pastie, that we might feed our fills, and free our selues from this poore and miserable kinde of life, wherein now we liue. But I was loath to hearken thereunto, holding it not so conuenient, for two respects.

First, because I found my selfe already so well fitted to my minde, that I did not desire to leade any better life, then that I now did with you: And second∣ly, for that a great deale of consideration is to be required, before a man leap•…•… out of one course of life into another. A little (I knew) could not content vs; and to carry away much, it was impossible, wanting conueniencie of meanes to doe it. Here, we could not hide our selues out of the way, or keepe our selues secret aboue foure dayes; nor could we secure our selues by flight, but that we should be taken, before we had gone foure steps out of Towne, so that we should either leaue our necks there longer then the marke, or our persons so rack't and so tortur'd, that they would neuer after be vsefull vnto vs. We gaue, and tooke; he argued, I answered: In conclusion, he prest me hard vnto it;

but I stood off; so that we did not ioyne issue, and all that had past betweene vs, was to no purpose. Many designes, many deuices were tost to and fro be∣tweene vs; but I did not like of any one of his propositions. For when the conclusion does not handsomly follow, the meanes thereunto are impertinent, and the grounds naught. So for that time he left me, because his houre was come, that he must hye him home; nor would he willingly be wanting, when his master should haue occasion to vse him. Hastning perhaps his departure the sooner, because he saw he could doe no good vpon me, and that all our talke was to no end in the world.

This, that Sayavedra had told me, did neither secure my suspition, nor worke an absolute vnbeleefe in me, because I thought with my selfe, it was not a thing vnlikely. I call'd for my cloake, and out of doores we went, with a purpose to walke abroad into the fields to recreate our selues. And albeit, the most part of that euening, we talk't of other things; this feare, was neuer out of my head, but where-soeuer I went, or what-soeuer I did, I was still thinking vpon it, and it would neuer out of my minde; deuising with my selfe, whether I were best to beleeue him, or no; or whether trusting to his honestie, and depending on the profession of his loue vnto me, he might play the Iacke with me, and strike me, like a f 1.206 shouell-boord peece (being now a ledger) into the box, and him∣selfe remaine vpon the boord in my place. And if he should thus play the box with me, of whom should I complaine, but mine owne folly? or whom can I iustly blame but my selfe? A man may beare with one slippery tricke that is playd him, and if he pocket it with silence, or otherwise dissemble it, he may very well be excused; but to be cozened twice one after another, and by one and the same party, he deserues to haue the Asses saddle clapt on his backe. What assurance can I haue from this man, or how may I dare to trust him, since, (as it is in the prouerbe) nunca buena vigase •…•…izo de buen cohombro; g 1.207 a croo∣ked Cucumber, neuer made straight rafter. He that is naturally giuen to kna∣uish tricks, will hardly, or neuer leaue them. And were not this a fine one aboue the rest, that he should put a full stoccado vpon me, and goe brag when he had done, that he had beaten a master of defence at his owne weapon? Did I not deserue to be laught at, if I should suffer him to carry away the bucklers from me in this fashion? But as mine h 1.208 eye was neuer off from the doore; so my i 1.209 hand was still vpon my distaffe. I was now become another Argos in mine owne businesse; and another Ulysses, to looke to his water. Plotting with my selfe, how (if that were true, which he told me) I might helpe them to come off safely and cleanely with this businesse, in case it might be a matter of some moment and consideration, and that I might be sure it would free them from beggery, and make them for euer after to liue like men. For, to bestow a great deale of cost vpon that, which will yeeld but little profit, were foolishnesse, if not meere madnesse. There is no thrift, no good husbandry in it. The imploy∣ing of our paines, and our purse, ought to be answerable to the gaines and pro∣fits, that will come of it. For a man to limbeck his braines, a whole, nay, many nights, for Moone-shine in the water, or such a poore commoditie, as will scarce pay for a meales meat, is such a foolery, as no wise man will trouble his head * 1.210 about it. But because it might haply proue a rich voyage, and might haply speed better then we were aware of, when we had done walking, and were now come home to supper, seeing Sayavedra looke somewhat sad and heauy, * 1.211 as if something did trouble him, I said vnto him; Me thinks (Sayavedra) thou robbest thy selfe of thy mirth, because thou canst not rob others of their mo∣ney. This Merchants great wealth, doth greatly disquiet thee. Is that which thou musest vpon (for I see thou art in a browne studie) some rare plot, one of Archimedes his quaint inuentions? I can assure thee, I know a friend of mine, that would make a third in this businesse, and a fellow I tell you, that will not shrinke in the wetting, so as it may be a good fat purchase indeed, none of these

leane carrion commodities, but one that may haue some good tacke and sub∣stance in it.

What tacke, what substance would you haue, sayes Sayavedra? There is twenty thousand ducats, and a better penny to be had, if we can handsomely light vpon it. There is cloth enough (Sir) to cut out, to content vs all, if we will our selues, which we may order and dispose, as we shall best thinke fit. Well (quoth I) vnto him; I pray God, it come not to be cut out for vs into shrowds (you know my meaning) and then all will be well. But I prithee tell mee one thing; seeing thou standst thus plodding, and musing on the matter, is it possi∣ble that thou hast not yet setled vpon some one inuention or other, that may serue the turne, make the game sure, and strike it dead at thy foot?

No in good faith (Sir) not any, replyes Sayavedra; I cannot hit vpon the right ioynt; I haue now loytred so long, that I am as farre to seeke, as if I were but newly entred into my A. B. C. I haue taken my pleasure, and liu'd so much at case of late, that through too much idlenesse, those spirits and blood, that should quicken my vnderstanding, and put life into it, are growne dull and muddy; and my wits, for want of vse, as rustie as olde yron. A thousand times, I seeke to fall into my old trot, but I haue scarce strucken two strokes, but I grow resty and lazie, and am not able for my life to pace one true step, or to bring my selfe to that perfection and readinesse of hand, to winde you this way, or that way (or whither-soeuer you would haue me to goe) as I was wont to doe. Many proiects proffer themselues vnto me, but I pitch vpon none, as misliking all, proposing this and that, and t'other course; but in conclu∣sion, none sorted to my liking.

When I heard him say so, I thus made answer thereunto. Since it is a busines of that importance as thou sayst, what share shall I haue out of it, if I shall rid you of this care, & bring you (like valiant conquerors) brauely off with the victory?

Sir (said Sayavedra) my part, and my person are both at your disposall; but as for Aguilera, you were best talke with him your selfe, and when you two are agreed, I make account the businesse is as good as ended, and all shall be as we would haue it.

Goe to then (said I) goe and seeke him out, and see if you can come to speake with him, but with that secrecy, that you be sure you be not seene by any of his masters house; and wish him (when his leysure will giue him leaue) that he and I may talke a word together, and it shall not be long ere he and I be better acquainted, being I know him (by your report) so well already.

He did so: sending a ticket secretly vnto him; and when we were met, I began to wyre-draw him, and to question him somewhat more particularly, touching his masters disposition, his condition, and qualitie, what store of wealth he had, in what commodities it did most consist; how, and where it lay; what moneys he had in present cash, and vnder what keyes? When I had done; he began to make his relation vnto me, in this manner, as I here deli∣uer vnto you.

Sir, I assure my selfe Sayavedra hath sufficiently informed you of me; yet my selfe shall giue you to vnderstand, that I am by my profession a k 1.212 caulker of ships, and a reasonable good mariner, but as poore, as poore may be. And al∣beit I am not ignorant, that thousands with a great deale lesse wit, haue growne to a great deale of wealth in the world, yet I haue seene some others more able, and more deseruing, to haue come to the gallowes, my selfe being none of those, that haue least deserued it: for which escape, I render infinite thanks to his diuine Maiestie. It is a yeere, and somewhat more (which is the time of my abode in this Citie) that I haue serued a Merchant, and haue taken a great deale of paines in his seruice. And it is about some foure moneths since, that he hath made me the keeper of his cash. All his bookes, are in my hands, but his moneys, in his owne. Am•…•… & timeo: I loue, and yet I am afraid; nor can I re∣solue

with my selfe, how I may so handsomely rob him, that I may not after∣wards come to cut capers in the ayre; and to venture a stretching, for that which is not worth the catching, it were better for me to continue still as I am. But where much is to be had, a man will hazard himselfe much. Here is store of gold to be had, and he is worthy to weare it, that winnes it. I haue communicated my minde to Sayavedra; for it is more then one man can doe, to manage such a peece of businesse, as is this. He had need to conferre with some confident friend, or other, or more, whom he is assured he may safely trust. For, as mens opinions are diuers; and so many heads, so many mindes; euery one deliuereth (as his iudgement shall direct him) which is the best course he thinks to be taken. And sometimes it so falleth out, Quod bonus •…•…ormitat H•…•…∣merus: That the wisest man, doth not alwayes hit vpon the right: when as a shallower braine, doth now and then wade, and that happily too, through the deepest fords of humane affaires. And when, this last night, I receiued Sayave∣dra's ticket, wherein he signified, that he was desirous to speake with mee, I thought it was no idle errand, that he went about, but that there was some∣thing in the winde, what euer it were. For I haue knowne him a long time; and that it is not his fashion to put forth to Sea, but when he hath some good prize in chase. And I am verily perswaded, that if this matter be wisely hand∣led, and that we finde good firme footing in the passage of this fo•…•…d, and through our owne indiscretion, doe not wilfully cast away ourselues, we may bring this businesse brauely about, and make our selues men for euer.

Touching his wealth, I can truly affirme vnto you, (as one that knowes and hath often seene it) that those commodities, which he hath now in celle∣rage and other ware-houses within his owne doores, which to Gentlemen, and others that want moneys, he l 1.213 sells vpon credit at excessiue deare rates, buying them afterwards at easie prizes by the helpe of his brokers, amount to more then twenty thousand ducats. Whereof, oftentimes he deliuers me the keyes, out of the great trust and confidence, that he hath of mine honestie. Besides, he knowes very well, that those bales are too big for me to carry away, and therefore will spare the labour to lade my ba•…•…ke, with such vnprofitable burthens as my weake shoulders are vnable to beare. That which he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 co∣fered vp in two yron chests, in seuerall sorts of coyne, come to some fifteene thousand ducats, and better. And in his Escritorto, or Tye, that he hath in his shop, some twelue dayes since, did he shut vp a delicate d•…•…pple gray m 1.214 Cat, as gentle, and as tame as my selfe, not with his eyes s•…•…arkling, nor his nayles scratching, nor his teeth as sharpe as any razor, but cram'd full with crownes, three thousand crownes, in good, dainty braue ruddocks, all good double pi∣stolets, some peeces of two, and some of foure, not one single one amongst them all. Which he hath purposely laid aside for a certaine Merchant, who is to take them vpon vse for six moneths, which he will looke to be well paid for. There is not a man in all this Towne that hath so bad a name, or is so ill belou'd, as he is. There is no man, that wishes him good; nor any whom he doth not hurt. There is not a true word, that comes out of his mouth, he hath not one friend in all the world, he is counted one of the Caterpillars of the Common-wealth, and such a one as would cozen his owne father (were he liuing) and negotia•…•…es with none, whom one time or other, he doth not deceiue. And well assured I am, that whatsoeuer losse should light vpon him, it would be (as they say) n 1.215 en haz, y en paz, with the good liking of all men. I know not one man that would be sorry for it, but would laugh heartily at it, and make them-selues therewith exceeding merry.

He acquainted me likewise with his name, where he dwelt, in what place, and on which hand the cab•…•…net stood, as also the box, wherein the Cat lay. He made me so good and perfect a relation of euery particular, that I could haue gone thither blind-fold, and haue clapt my hand vpon it. I askt him, whe∣ther

there would be any matter of difficultie in procuring the print of his keies. He told me, that might easily be done; for that he had them all tyde to one little chaine, as well those that belong'd to the magazine of his merchandize, as those that seru'd to open his yron chests, which I ordinarily brought vnto him; when, hauing occasion to take out some thing that he was to vse, hee would call vnto me to fetch them. But being (as he is) a most couetous mise∣rable wretch, his suspition and iealousie was such, that he would be sure (for feare of the worst) that his eye should neuer be off from them, so loath was he to lose their sight. I was glad when I heard that this might be done with that fa∣cilitie, wherein I did imagine we should haue found the greatest difficultie. Whereupon, I said vnto him; That then, which wee must first of all begin with, and must be the ground, whereon we must worke, must be the getting of the print of these keyes in waxe, to the end that I may see the fashion of them, and set some Smith a worke, to make them out of hand, iust in euery respect ac∣cording to that impression which shall be presented vnto him in the waxe.

I moreouer mentioned vnto him, that it were very fit, that we should agree vpon that which we should steale from him for the present, which I would haue to be carryed in that discreet manner, that the muchnesse of it, should not so amaze vs, as that we should not well know, which way to turne our hands; nor the meannesse, draw vs on to aduenture our persons for a trifle; where the danger shall be great, and the profit small.

Neither must we forget, that it is worthy our consideration, to determine before-hand, how the spoile shall be diuided, that we may not afterwards differ, when we come to sharing. Well, this theft being resolued vpon, say we should come to finger this fine pretty pusse, this sweet cat, with a delicate pudding of three thousand crownes in her belly, and so proportionably reckning alike in the rest, be it more, or lesse, we will goe so much, or so much a peece, taking them out by the tale, as they vse to doe, that sell sheepe. And for this money, if we shall rob him smoothly of it, all of vs running equally the hazard either of the gallowes, or the sword, in all naturall reason, it ought to be, that as the danger was equall, so the gaine should be equall. And so we being three of vs, euery one ought to haue a third part. But in case we shall play this game safely, and wade dry foot through this forde, and that you shall not be able to lay any fault to my charge, nor receiue any punishment by my ill managing of the bu∣sinesse, euery one of vs comming off with a good reputation both of his life, and fame, his credit vncrackt, and the nut (as they say) whole and sound, so good an Architect, or Surueyour of the worke, shall very well deserue some reasonable allowance ouer and aboue his fellow-labourers, for his good 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and onely for his cunning contriuing of the building, without any re∣lation to the rest of his paines, that he shall take therein. And this meane I to carry away, as in reason I ought, as a due that properly belongeth vnto mee. So that if I enter vpon this businesse, and be the onely proiector to bring it handsomely about, I will haue one entire third part, wholly to my selfe, you shall make no scruple of it, but let it come faire and quietly to me, and the other two thirds that remaine, shall be equally diuided into three parts, where∣of you shall haue one; Sayavedra, another; and my selfe, the third. So that in this, we will all share alike.

This was controuerted to and fro, and much adoe there was about it. But because I had the maior part of voyces on my side, to wit, mine owne, and that of my servant Sayavedra, who was well contented therewith, and for that the goods which we stroue about, was not any lawfull partition of a father amongst his children, we quickly agreed on the matter. Well, I had the print of them 〈◊〉〈◊〉 vnto me in waxe, and caused the keyes to be made out of hand, and Aguilera instructed vs in the meane while, which were which; to the end that wee being throughly informed, which were for the shop, which

for the cabinet, and which for one thing, and which for another, wee might know the better how to vse them, when we should come to put this our enter∣prise in execution. I afterwards told Aguilera, that I would come the next morning, and speake with his Master, and that he should diligently obserue all, that I did either say, or doe, for the better aduancing of our future designes, and that euery night we should see one another, and lay our heads together for the better ordering and finishing of that taske, which we had now taken in hand. He said it should be done, as I would haue it; and so he went his wayes.

On the morrow I went to this Merchants Shop, and in the presence of his Scruant Aguilera, after that wee had complemented a little together, and salu∣ted each other, I said vnto him; Sir, I am a Gentleman, that am but lately come to this Towne, vvith a purpose to buy some rarities and curiosities, which this City affordeth, as well for mine owne vse as to gratifie my friends, because I am shortly to bee married in mine owne Countrey; and haue for that end brought along vvith me a matter of three thousand Duckats, and somwhat more, which are now at my Lodging: I haue no acquaintance here in this Towne; nor doe I know the fashion of this people; nor vvhat their manner of proceeding and dealing is: Money you know is a dangerous commodity, and runnes many hazards; especially, when a man hath it not in that sure and safe custody as hee desireth. I know not what this or that other man is: I lye in a Lodging, where many other lodge as well as my selfe; no lesse then a hundred goe dayly in and out; and though they haue giuen mee a key to my Chamber; yet am I halfe afraid they may haue a fellow vnto it, and that some incon•…•…ni∣ence may thereby happen vnto mee.

I haue beene informed of your quality, as also of the worthinesse of your disposition, of your plaine and honest dealing with all men; and therfore vpon the good report that I heare of you, I am imboldened to come vnto you, to in∣treate you that you would be pleased to do me that kindnes as to keep them for me some few daies, til I haue made choyce and bought such things as shal serue my turne, and I shal returne you many thanks, and shall be ready vpon any occa∣sion that shal offer it selfe, to expresse my thankfulnesse vnto you; I am a Gentle∣man, and know what belongs to the acknowledgement of a receiued courtesie.

My Merchant thought he had this money already in his possession; and I doe still strongly suspect, that hee and I did iumpe both vpon one thing; hee, to make my money his; and I, to steale his, and make it mine. He made prof∣fer vnto mee both of his person and his house, and that I should as freely com∣mand it as if it were mine owne; and that hee should bee glad to serue mee in this or any thing else: hee bid mee bring it when I would, promising to keepe it carefully for mee, and that I should haue it as oft, when, how, and in what manner my selfe should demand it of him, as my occasions required: so for the present wee tooke leaue each of other; •…•…ee, with a resolution to keepe them; and I, with a promise to bring them thither: but I neuer came to him againe, till such time as we were to execute our exploit.

When Sayavedra and I were come home, he stood stocke still like an Asse, or like a ma•…•…'d man that had been garred out of his sleepe, & dreamingly drawes me out his words, asking mee where this money was to bee had, that hee was to haue in his keeping? I fell a laughing, and said vnto him; Didst not thou carry it him euen now? With that hee laught. Laughest thou, quoth I? Is this a matter to b•…•…e laught at? I know that in the Car, and the Cabinet, they are kept safe enough for me. Tell your friend Agutlera, that wee must needs see him about an eight dayes hence, and will him to bring along with him his Masters o 1.216 Borra•…•…, o•…•… booke o•…•… remembrance, wherein hee sets downe his Solutes and his debts, what hee is to receiue and what to pay. In the interim, while wee were tar ying for a good tide, and waiting for a fit time for the ef∣fecting of our purpose, Sayaveara hauing me one 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to bed, finding when

I had laid my selfe downe, no great desire to sleepe; for the working of my braines (thinking vpon old businesses) kept me waking: I called to my ser∣uant, who comming vnto me, I spake thus vnto him.

Sayavedra; I haue a tale to tell thee, which though it bee but short, yet it is worth your hearing. I shall giue thee therefore to vnderstand, that once vpon * 1.217 a time the Asse (that poore silly creature) fell sicke, and finding himselfe much oppressed and weakned with his disease, growing euery day worse then other, insomuch that he was now almost brought to deaths dore; at the instance of his Kinsfolke, and the earnest intreaty of his Children, which were very many, he was moued to make his last will and testament; and each of them striuing who should bee best left, and goe away with the greatest portion of their fathers goods, the lawfully begotten, and his bastard Children went together by the cares about it. But their honest and well-meaning Father, desiring to leaue them in peace, and for auoyding of further wrangling, that euery one should know his owne, and what hee should trust to after his death, was content in the end (for quietnesse sake) to make his Will, diuiding his goods amongst them in this manner following.

My Will and intent is, that my Tongue (when I am dead and gone) bee be∣stowed * 1.218 amongst such my Children as are Flatterers and Backbiters: to those other my children that are angry and cholericke, I bequeath my Taile for a cooler: my Eyes, I leaue to the lasciuious; my Braines, to Alchimists and iudi∣c•…•…y Astrologers; my Heart, to the couetous; my Eares, to the seditious and sowers of discord; my Snout, to Epicures, Gluttons, and Drunkards; my Bones, to the floathfull; my Loynes, to the proud; my chyne, to the obstinate: Let my hinder Legges, bee giuen to the Lawyers; my Fore-feete, to the Iud∣ges; and my Head, to your Scriueners and Notaries. Lastly, I bequeath my Flesh, to the poore; and my Skinne, to bee diuided amongst my Bastard-Children.

I would not for any thing, that Aguilera, bearing vs in hand that we should rob his Maister, should come to strip vs of all that wee haue, and leaue vs so na∣ked, that wee should bee forced to couer our selues with the skinne of this our Testator. And I assure you, if hee should chance to put such a tricke vpon vs, he should shew himselfe a very wise and subtile fellow: and how vve should be afterwards able to helpe our selues, God hee knowes; for I doe not. I speake this vnto thee, for that for the better prosecution of our intent, and that it may goe well with vs, that our of those Dobloues of ten, which I haue here, wee giue him some ten of them, vvhich will amount to a hundred Crownes; which being no small ingagement, may much further our affaires. But I would not in any hand, that giuing vs a backe blow, and shewing vs a faire paire of heeles, hee should slip his neck out of the collar, and by little and little fall off from vs.

Sayavedra, perceiuing the doubts that I began to cast with my selfe; to free * 1.219 me of this suspition, made mee this answere, Sir, if wee should put all the fiue hundred into his hands; nay, say they were fiue hundred thousand: yet, for∣asmuch as it is a custome amongst vs, and a rule that wee neuer breake, to vse all faith and fidelity amongst our selues, and neuer to be false one to another, in a thousand yeares they will not deceiue you of so much as one poore mite; but you shall haue your owne againe to a farthing. And therefore feare you no∣thing; let mee runne the hazard of it, and put it to my account: for I shall bee content to stand to any losse that you shall suffer thereby.

CHAP. VII.

The robbing of the Merchant of Milan, falls out as luckily as Guzman de Alfa∣rache could haue wisht it. Aguilera shares so much with him as of right belonged vnto him: And hee and his servant Sayavedra goe for Genoa.

FOrasmuch as Hope doth not assure vs of a true and r•…•…∣all possession, it euermore makes vs carry about vs * 1.220 a troubled and vnquiet minde, our thoughts neuer taking rest, out of the great feare that wee haue, lest vvee should faile of that vvhich wee so earnestly de∣sire: Onely, it is Solatium miseris, the sole comfort that afflicted soules haue; and that safe harbour whereon they relie; being that from it, a certaine shadow (as it were) of shelter and refuge, whereby those cares and troubles are eased and lightened, which our hopes delay, doth lay vpon vs. And as that hope which is secure and certaine doth dilate and ex∣tend our hearts to an assured affiance of that which wee expect; so there is not any paine affordeth greater tonment, then that which we endure when we once come to lose it. And little lesse is our griefe, when it defers its comfort.

How many and how various thoughts did distract in this short time my two stipendary Pensioners: For, hauing not giuen them any more light, then what I haue already told you, of my designe; I had onely sweetned their lips, and left them (as it is in the Prouerbe) * 1.221 Co•…•… la miel on la boca, with a smatch of some honey in their mouth; and therefore they could not choose but reele this way and that way, staggering and wauering with their thoughts, and in the se∣uerall Maps of their inconstant imaginations, one conceiuing this, another that, hatch a thousand strange inuentions; chewing the cudde, as it were, and ru∣minating with them-selues, when (a Gods name) they should set them-selues roundly to the businesse, what the plot might bee, and how to be effected, lon∣ging to see the issue of these promised and hopefull ends, which made them al∣most at a stand; being (as it should seeme) somewhat doubtfull whether it would goe on or no: and if it did; yet could they not deuise with them-selues how, and in what manner this businesse was to be carried.

But when they saw the Sunne of that day appeare, no lesse by them, then my * 1.222 selfe, desired; and that Aguilera had brought me that his shop-booke of ac∣counts, according as I had appointed him. I turn'd to one of the leafes towards the latter end of the booke, where I found some memorials booked eight daies before, and in a voyd place, or blanke, where nothing was written, I set downe this that followeth: Left with me by Don Iuan Ossorio, three thousand Crowns in gold, some being peeces of ten, but most of them, of two, and of foure. Ouer and aboue, he likewise left with me two thousand Royals, in good Royals of plate. Afterwards I drew a line vpon what I had written, to shew that the booke was crost: And wrote in a different letter on the margent, •…•…euolos, •…•…euolos; which is as much to say; All this money is mine. Afterwards I shut to the booke, and gaue it him againe, and together with it ten Doblones of ten; wil∣ling him, that when he opened the Cabinet, he should take a hundred other out of the Catt, and put those in their roome. I likewise gaue him two billets; whereof the one said; These three thousand Crownes belong to Don Iuan Ossorio; And the other said, Here are two thousand Royals in plate, whose true owner is Don Iuan Ossorio. I did moreouer aduise him, that if there were any other bill, or note, in the bag, hee should take it forth, and leaue mine only there. And that of the two thousand Royals, hee should clap it into another great bag, wherein Aguilera had already told mee, there were some seuen∣teene

thousand more, or there-abouts, for he could not know the iust number in regard they did daily put in other fresh moneyes amongst them. And that he should with all remember, that this great bag of siluer, lay in a great ch•…•…st, next vnto his Cabinet, and that the bag was marked with a great spot of inke neere vnto the mouth of it. With these instructions, Aguilera went his way, hauing taken order with him, that he should that night without faile, put euery thing in its right place, according as I had giuen him direction. The day fol∣lowing, as soone as I had dined, I walked leisurely along to the merchants shop, with my man at my heeles, as if I had knowne no such matter, dissem∣bling the businesse very handsomely. When I was come thither, and that his eye was vpon me, as soone as he saw me, he was wondrous glad; thinking I had brought that with me, which I meant to demand of him. We did agree both in one, in respect of the purpose that we had to deceiue each other; but my plot was another kind of gambol, then he was aware of. We had both one end, but the meanes were diuers. Now, when wee had saluted one anothe, I said vnto him; Tomorrow, Sir, shall I send this my seruant vnto you with a bag, and a ticket with it, desiring you that you will be pleased to giue a quicke dispatch, and to send him back▪ vnto me as soone as you can, because I shall haue occasion to vse his seruice. My pooresilly Merchant, whose minde was more ben•…•…, how he should out-strip mee by his cunning, then fearfull, that I should goe beyond him, and proue in the end the craftier knaue of the two; thought that my meaning was, that the money should be brought him the next morning; and so said vnto me, Sir, your desire shall be fulfilled: you shall haue it when-soeuer you please to send for it.

With that, I got me out of doores, and had scarce gone twenty paces, but I returned backe againe, and sud vnto him; Sir, since I went from hence, I haue better bethought my selfe, and haue present occasion to vse this money, and therefore (I pray) let me haue it. The mans colour began to change, and see∣ming to be somewhat troubled, he said vnto me; What money, Sir, is that you would haue of mee? All, Sir, (said I) all, for I haue occasion to vse all or it. Whereunto hee replied; What all? What all, quoth I? All the gold and the siluer. He answered me, What gold, what siluer? I told him, That siluer and gold Sir which you haue here of mine. I, any gold, or siluer of yours, No Sir, (said he) I haue no siluer, nor gold of yours, nor doe I know what y•…•… meane. Sir, said I, (answering him somewhat roughly) doe you make it so strange, thinke you I doe not know what I speake? I am neither mad nor drunke; this is pretty fine dealing indeed: this tricke will not serue your turne. No▪ yours neither, Sir, said he; Me thinkes yours is the prettier of the two, in demanding that of me, which you neuer gaue mee; nor haue I any thing of yours. No Sir, quoth I, Take heed what you say. Let me wish you to be a little better aduised. Leaue off your iesting, and come to earnest, for I c•…•…n assure you, this is no iesting matter▪ I must not be so answerd, nor doe I take it well at your hands. Very good Sir, (said he) very good ifaith: it is you Sir that are disposed to iest, and to make your selfe merry with me. No more (good Si•…•…) it is enough, I pray be gone, I haue something else to doe, then to finde you talke. How S•…•…, be gone? N•…•…y, by your leaue (quoth I) there is more in it then so. I must not goe hence without my money. Money, (said he) what money would you haue of me? What is your demand? Marry, I demand (said I) those Crownes and Reyals which I left with you the other day. With me, (said he) you neuer left any Crownes nor Royals with me: Goe looke your Crownes and Royals else-w•…•…ere; the deuill a crosse that I haue of yours. Then said I vnto him, Are you not ashamed to auouch this before these Gentlemen, that are here present, who but euen now before them, when I told you that I would send my man tomorrow for them; you answer'd mee, hee should haue them; and now that I come to you for them my selfe (hauing present vse for

them) doe you deny me them with one and the same breath? Deny you Sir, (said he) I deny you nothing; nor nothing shall you haue of me: for I recei∣ued nothing of you; and nothing shall I returne you. How Sir, nothing? Did not I Sir, some eight dayes since bring you these moneys, desiring you to keep them for me, and did not you your selfe receiue them from me? Giue me there∣fore my moneys, and that presently, for I will not that you keepe them one minute of an houre longer in your hands. In my hands, (said he?) I haue not so much as one farthing of yours in my hands: and therefore God be with you Sir, I haue no more to say to you. It is the Deuill that deceiueth vs all. I think so indeed (quoth I:) for sure the Deuill did deceiue mee when I trusted you with my money. And with that, my inflamed choller, hauing set my whole face on fire, I angerly said vnto him; What meanest thou by this, that thou wilt not restore me my money? before thee and I part, I will make thee lay it downe here on this board, euen to the vttermost farthing, or else I will know why I shall not; Be wise therefore in time, and well aduise with your selfe (I would wish you) what you doe, for feare of after-claps. The poore man was so troubled, and struck into such a feare, when he saw I was so hot and chollerick in the businesse, and so resolutely bent vpon it, that he had not a word to say; yet at last, with a kinde of counterfaite smile, seeming to make a iest of my words, hee bid me bee gone, one while in Gods name, another in the de•…•…s; saying, that he knew me not, nor who I was, nor what was my name, nor the thing that I demanded of him. Whereupon, turning my selfe about to those (which were many) that were there; Art thou so impudent (said I) as to say, Thou dost not know who, nor what I am, thinking thereby to o•…•…t-face me, and to cozen me of those moneys thou hast of mine in thy han is? But I doubt not but I shall finde good iustice in Milan, and that (though fullsore against his will) he should be forced to make mee peesent b 1.223 payment. My man denies it more and more, telling me, I had much mistaken my marke; and that I might happely haue giuen it to some body else to keepe: for he stood stiffely vnto it, that he neither had any money of mine, nor did owe me the value of one far∣thing, though indeed (he said) he must thus farre forth confesse the truth; That I came vnto him, and that I told him, I would leaue so much money in his hands to keepe for me, but that I neuer brought them vnto him, nor that he did either see or touch, one faithing of mine: And therefore, if I had a mind so to doe, I might goe a Gods name, and complaine to the Iustice, and that if it should appeare that hee ought me any thing, hee should bee very willing to giue me satisfaction. When I saw hee had armed himselfe with this resolution, I did open the doores of my lips a little wider, foming at the mouth for very anger, and straining my throat to a higher key, said vnto him, O thou false tray∣tor, heauens iustice ouer-take thee, and let all the plagues light vpon thee that the earth can affoord, (vile and wicked man as thou art) wilt thou thus then rob me of my moneys before my face, and thus iniuriously goe about to vndoe me? I must haue thy life, or my money. And therefore make no more adoe, but bring me hither presently my three thousand Crownes: bring them I say, and quickly too; it shall not boore thee to denie them; for I will either teare them out of thy throat, or make thee lay it downe here, in good gold and siluer, as thou hadst it of me.

The house was all in an vprore, and those likewise, which were present there from the beginning, that this difference happened betweene vs. Vpon this coyle and stirre •…•…hat was betweene them, there came in many into the shop, as they past along the street, besides a great number of the neighbours, asking one another, what was the matter? For now were we growne so loud, that we did not well vnderstand one another. All that were there, went enquiring, what was the cause of all this noyse, what wee quarreld about, not so few as a hundred were talking here and there, of it, and euery one relating it each to

other; some in one manner, & some in another, whilest we within drowned all that the other said, so earnest was the contesting that was betweene vs. In the heat whereof comes me in a Bargello, an officer of the same nature with our Al∣guazil in Castile, a kind of Sergeant or Catchpole, but he bare no Vare or white rod in his hand, as ours doe, and making the people to giue way, hee came vp where we were, being both (through the heat of our choller) as hot, and as red as coales. When I saw the Iustice present (howbeit he was a stranger vnto me, and knew him no otherwise then as he was the Iustice) I saw my sute at an end, and that the cause was like to goe with mee. And here taking my Cu, I began in a milder temper to speake thus vnto those that were by: Gentlemen, you haue seene and heard that which hath here passed betweene vs, and how, and in what manner, this naughty man hath deny'd mee mine owne money; let his owne man speake the truth concerning this businesse, and if hee (out of his respect to his Master) shall refuse to deliuer what he knowes, let his owne Booke speake in my behalfe, wherein shall that appeare to be set downe, which he receiued of me, and in what parcels, and in what manner of fashion I deli∣uered the said moneys vnto him; to the end that it may be knowne vnto you, which of vs is the honester man, and speakes the most truth. Should I bee so shamelesse to aske a man that, which I neuer gaue him? Into a Cat-skin bag, that he hath, he did put into that Cabinet three thousand Crownes of mine, some of two, and others of foure, and for to make my proofes more plaine and cleare vnto you, he hath intermixed amongst them, ten Crownes of ten, which in the whole make vp iust the summe of three thousand Crownes. And in a bag, which he lockt vp within that chest, (wherein he told mee there were at that time I deliuered him my moneys, neare (together with mine) about some seuenteene thousand Royals) did he put those two thousand, he had of mee: And if this (which I tell you) be not true, I am content to lose it all, and that you take my head from off my shoulders, for the arrantest traytor that euer spake with tongue; And if here in your presence, before I stirre a foot from hence, I doe not make good vnto you all that I haue said. Onely (Gentlemen) let me entreat (though a stranger) so much lawfull fauour from you, that there may present inquisition be made concerning this businesse (considering how neerely it concernes me) that he may not (by gaining of time) haue opportu∣nitie to transport them to some other place. And turning himselfe toward the Bargello, hee said: See now (Sir,) I beseech you Sir to see, which of vs two, treats falsehood, which entends deceit? The Merchant then said; I am content to stand to this motion, and to put my selfe vpon this triall, I shall bring forth my bookes, I care not who see them, let them be perused, if any such thing be there to be found, you shall likewise see all the money, that I haue in the house, and if any such thing shall appeare as this man would make you beleeue, I will confesse that he sayes truth, and that I am in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 wrong. Then said they, that were present; This businesse is now ended, they are both agreed vpon the point, and it will straight be seene, which of these two are in the right.

The Merchant commanded his seruant, that kept his Cash, that hee should bring him his great booke of Accompts; He did so: but when he had brought it, I excepted against it, and sayd; O thou cozening companion; this is not the booke, it is a lesser then this, a little kind of Manuall, that a man may easily hold in his hand. Then he will'd him to fetch the Manuall that was in the Cashe, being a litle thing of some foure sheets of paper, like a note-book. Which when he had likewise brought; No, no, (said I) what need so many trickes and de∣uices? why doe you seeke to deceiue vs thus with your booke? this is not that which I would haue, you need not to beat so about the bush, the bird that I looke for is not here; I askt for your chalke, and you giue me cheese; I would see that, wherein you did set downe those particular summes of money, you re∣ceiued of me; it is a little long narrow booke; you know well enough which I

meane, if you were disposed to bring it fo•…•…. Then said Aguilera, It may bee Sir he meanes that wherein you write your Memorials, for so it should seeme by the description of it; for there is not any other besides of that fashion, to my knowledge in the house. And bringing it before vs, hee turned himselfe to∣wards me, and said; Is this, Sir, the booke that you would haue? I answered, yes, this is it, this is it, and none but this. Now (Gentlemen) I pray see whe∣ther I say truth or no. This will decide the controuersie, his cunning can no longer cloake it selfe, and this will make his kn•…•…ry plainly appeare vnto you. They began then (hauing the booke in their hands) to turne the leafes one by one, and when I spy'd mine owne hand, and what I had there set downe, I said; I pray (Gentlemen) will you be pleased to looke vpon this writing, and to see what it saith; Reade I pray these parcels of moneys, which he hath crost and blotted out, (though the summes are easie to be seene) and by that which I here perceiue, hee hath noted it in the margent to be paid. But this tricke shall not serue his turne, for I will haue my money before I goe from hence. They did all looke vpon it, and might easily discerne, those very summes, by me before mentioned. Whereat the Merchant was so mad, and so transported with passion, that he knew not what to say vnto it, but began to curse and raile, & swearing a thousand oaths, vowd that he did not know of it, nor how it came there, nor who had written it. To cleare that doubt, I answered; I wrote this my selfe, this I confesse to be my hand, but that in the margent is a different letter, and the quotation as false as God is true; for hee neuer return'd me one penny of it; and in that Cabinet that stands there, if he haue not taken it thence, there are my Crownes.

Hereupon, like a furious Bedlam, he began to rage and raue extreamly, so that the standers by did vndoubtedly beleeue, that all I had said, was true. And seeking to pacifie me (for I seemed to be very angry with this foule dealing of his,) they wished me to quiet my selfe, and to rest contented, for the crossing of his booke was not materiall, nor his writing in the margent, that he returned me my moneys, if those things should fall 〈◊〉〈◊〉 right (as I had said) in the rest. What greater proof, (then said I) or what truer token can you haue of my truth & his falshood, then his late protestations, that he neuer receiued anyone penny of me, and yet you here see it set downe, though hauing a purpose to play the rogue with me, he afterwards crost it out. If he receiued it, why does hee de∣nie it? If he did not receiue it, how comes it here? I pray you cause that Ca∣binet to be opened, where I doubt not but you may chance to finde my Dob∣lones, where you shall light amongst them, vpon ten Doblones of ten Crownes a peece? At this, the Merchant fell 〈◊〉〈◊〉 fun•…•… and a fretting, and stampt for very anger, refusing to open the Cab•…•…, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…ly striuing against it, as if they should haue offered to rip vp his belly, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…ut his heart, vowing and auer∣ring with sundry hideous oathes, and fearfull obsecrations, that all was roguery and villany, and that there was •…•…ch matter as I talkt of; and for those Dob∣lones of ten, he did there confidently a•…•…ch before them all, that he had not one, or not aboue one, (if he had that) in all his house. Such adoe there was, to get him to open the Cabinet, as was wonderfull; He denied to doe it; The Bargello was as instant, as he was stubborne, and said, hee should doe it. The latter insisted to haue the keyes; The other resisted, and said, hee should not haue the keyes. When the Bargello saw this, he began to grow now as hot, as before he was iealous of his double dealing: and swore a great oath, that if he would not fetch the keyes, and open the Cabinet by faire meanes, and that quickly too, he would take it out of his house, and carrie it away with him, and giue particular notice of all the whole busines, to the Signor Capitan di gi•…•…ia, (which is there with them of the same quality and authority as a Corregidor in Castile) and there deposite it, that the truth thereof might be knowne. At last (though sore against his will) he gaue him the keyes; and when he had opened

the Cabinet; Sir, (said I) there in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a Boxe did hee put them in a dapple∣gray Cat-skinne: They opened that Boxe, and pulled out the Cat by the eares, and going to tell the money to see if it were right or no, a piece of the Billet shew'd it selfe. When I saw that, vvith somewhat a more cheerefull counte∣nance, I reard my selfe vp and said: Let this Paper, I pray, bee read; for that scroll will declare how much there is in the bagge, and whose it is. They read it, the Contents expressing Don Iuan Ossorio, to bee their true owner. Well, they fell afterwards to tellin•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉 them and found them to bee iust three thou∣sand Crownes, with those ten of ten a piece which I told you of.

Things being brought to this push, and falling out so pat as they did, my Merchant was strooke as dead as a herring, he was absolutely now gone, quite ouerthrowne horse and foote, without hope of recouery, hee had not a word to say for himselfe, nor knew not in the world what to alleage in his owne ex∣cuse: it seeming vnto him to bee Opus Daemonii, that the Diuell had a hand in it; for hee thought it was impossible that any man should bee able to doe it. Besides, hee considered with himselfe; that if I could finde hands, to put these things there, I might easier haue found hands to carry them away.

Hee was quite beside himselfe, and cryed out, that all was lyes and nothing but lyes; that his goods were wrongfully taken from him; that this money was his, and no bodies else, that the Diuell had put those Doblones there, and not hee; that they should lay hold on mee, for I had a familiar, and a great ma∣ny the like broken speeches.

Let them lay hold a Gods name on me (said I) so that I may haue my money out of thy fingers. I gaue him very rough and harsh language, telling him; O thou Impostor, thou cheating raskall, hast thou yet a tongue to talke, seeing how euident thy wicked dealing appeares to all the world: open that chest too I pray; for there lies my siluer, I saw him put it in. There is no such thing said hee; for all the siluer that is there is mine, and so are these three thousand Crownes. How yours, I pray Sir being you did but now confesse that you had no Doblones of ten? It was Gods will to cause thee to forget that thou hadst receiued them, that I might not lose my monies. Hee that will denie another man his owne, had need of a good memorie, as also a care to remem∣ber what hee sayes.

When I first came in hither, thou toldest mee here before these Gentle∣men, that to morrow I should haue them, sending my man for them, and now that I came backe againe to demand them of thee, before the same Gentlemen, thou deniest to haue any such thing in thy keeping. Let that Chest therefore (I pray) bee opened, take out all that is in it, and then it shall be knowne which of vs two is the honester man, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 it is that liues by cozening others, ei∣ther hee or I? They opened the Chest, and when I saw the bagge, though there were diuers other there, some of more, and some of lesser summes, reach∣ing forth mine arme I pointed out that wit•…•… •…•…y finger, saying; this with the blacke spot is it. In conclusion, they found that to bee true, which I had said. And this truth vvas the more confirmed, when pouring out that bagge for to count the monies, they met with th•…•… •…•…ther Billet, which said, That my two thousand Royals were in there amongst the rest: then I began to be louder then euer I was before, and cryde out vnto him. Thou vile naughty man, thou false crafty Merchant, thou common coozener, thou enemy to God, thou that hast neither truth nor conscience in thee: is this thy honest dealing? this thy faire proceeding? this thy good vsage of those that haue to doe with thee? No maruell thou bee rich, if thou take this course with others, as thou hast done with mee: and if thou hadst my monies (as is apparant to all the world) how didst thou dare first to crosse and blot out what I had written; seeking thereby to defeate me of my due? And then afterwards so impudently to affirme that I had giuen thee nothing, and that thou didst not know whence I was, nor

whither I would, and that you did not so much as know either me, or my name? What canst thou now alleage for thy selfe? Hast thou any more false money to coyne? any more lyes to stampe? See how thou art ouertaken in thy mischiefe, how blinded by thine owne wickednesse, that thou hadst not the wit (which was Gods iust punishment vpon thee) either to take away these memorandums, or to hide the money? See how his diuine Maiestie hath beene pleased to make good my innocencie, and to protect my simplicitie, that downe-right plainnesse, wherewith I committed my moneys to thy custodie, presuming that I should haue them againe, when-soeuer I call'd for them. But I now verily beleeue, that he, that did aduise me that I should trust thee with my moneys, was such another sharker as thy selfe; and one of your proiectors for your profit, a blood-hound of your owne making, to winde out your com∣moditie. All they that were present, with this that they had seene & heard, were as much amazed, as offended, at the Merchants base and roguish dealing, being now throughly satisfied, that I had a great deale of reason, and iustice on my side. The common voice was wholly in my fauour, the proofes, and euidences seene and allow'd, and the ill report that ran of him before, did now ring in all mens eares. Insomuch, that not a man of them, but said; Fie vpon him, doe you not see how this greedy Cormorant would haue swallowed this poore Gentle∣mans moneys, which he had deliuered vnto him vpon trust? But it is no such newes, that an vsuring knaue should like a Harpy, prey vpon other mens goods. And had he not vsed the better diligence, and had his wits about him, it had beene all vtterly lost, and damned for euer. The Merchant, who with his owne eares heard not only these, & the like, but far worse words spoken of him, had not so many mouthes, or tongues, where-with to satisfie so great a number, as there railed against him; nor indeed was it possible for him (as things were car∣ried) to iustifie himselfe, but stood like one, that did not well know, whether he were asleepe, or awake. It seemed then vnto me, that he rub'd his hands and el∣bowes, to call himselfe to remembrance; or that he began to thinke with him∣selfe, whether he had lost those two potentiall faculties of his Vnderstanding, and Memorie, and that onely his Will was remaining vnto him, considering what had past. He (as I told you before) had gotten himselfe a very bad name, which made much for me, and was as good as halfe a proofe for the clearing of my businesse. And this punishment still lights vpon them that leade a lewd life, that sleight proofes are sufficient to ouerthrow them, and makes the cause goe currant against them. This onely of it selfe, without any farther adoe, would haue seru'd the turne well enough to helpe me to my money againe, which was much strengthned by those that were there present at my first com∣ming thither, who there tooke their oath, That he said vnto me, that if I should send my seruant vnto him the next day following, I should not faile of my mo∣ney, and that within a little while after, I returning thither againe, and deman∣ding it of him, he denyed it vnto me. His owne seruant likewise swore, that I in his hearing (as being then present) did intreat his Master that he would keepe three thousand Crownes for me, and the aforesaid summe of Royalls, but whether I did deliuer them vnto him or no, he could not answer to that, but must refer it to his Masters booke of Accompts, which did not alwayes lye in the shop, but was often carried in, and more he could not say concerning this matter. My seruant, he on the other side swore, that he told out the moneys with his owne hands, and deliuered them vnto the Merchant, in the presence of diuers others, that were then in the shop, but knew not who they were, for he was a stranger in that place, and therefore could not haue any knowledge of them. So that, what with the pregnant proofes of all that I had said, what with seeing in what manner he had crost the booke, what with finding the summes of money (by me mentioned) to fall out so iust, both in their place, and num∣ber; as also, that euery bagge had his particular billet, which told, whose the

money was; they all tooke part with me, and were mainely bent against him, not suffering him to speake a word in his owne defence, nor to heare any thing that he could say, to excuse himselfe. He had spent all his breath in vaine, and had not now the spirit to talke any more; for, being strucken in yeeres, and seeing so strange, and vnexpected an accident as this, which he did not so much as once dreame of, thinking it impossible that he should be thus ouer-reach't, waxed thereupon so pale and so wanne, as if he had beene a dying man, con∣tinuing for a good space in a swound. All that were there, did verily beleeue, that my Merchant was dead, and that it was a iust punishment of God vpon him for his periurie and false dealing; but he afterwards came againe vnto himselfe, but so stupid and senslesse, that I began to take compassion of him. But in these his swounings, I did comfort my selfe, that if he should chance to dye, I should haue had lesse misse of him, then of his money.

In a word, there was not any one, of all that were there, which did not say, Let the Gentleman haue his money, giue him his money. But I, knowing full well, that it was not the voyce of the vulgar (though I was beholding to their good wishes) that could assigne me my money; but that it must be awarded me by the power and authoritie of the Iudge, and by course of Law, I was very wa∣rie in aduising with my selfe, how I might preuent all future mischiefes, and that the end of this businesse might be answerable to its good beginning. And therefore when they all with one vnanimous consent, and voyce, cryde out; The money is his; giue the Gentleman his money, giue him his money; I an∣swered very mildly, and gently; No, not I; I will none of it, I will none of it; let it be deposited, let it be deposited. So, for the better iustification of this businesse, the Bargello, that was there present, tooke away the money with him, and deposited it in one of the neighbours hands, that was an honest man, and vn-interessed on either side. Which, with a little sute, was within a few dayes after by way of sentence, deliuered vnto me; My merchant being not onely cozened of his cash, but condemned in costs and charges of Court, be∣sides the generall infamie, which by this meanes fell vpon him.

When I saw so much money in these poore and sinfull hands, I did often thinke vpon that theft, which Sayavedra had done vpon me, which though it were not of that great value, yet was it not so little, but that then it fell out to my great hurt, albeit afterwards, it turned to my greater good. For if that had not beene, I should not haue knowne so much as I now doe, nor come off so cleanely with this theft. And therefore comforting vp my selfe, I said; it was * 1.224 the better for me, c 1.225 that I broke my leg. It might haue hapt worse with mee, had it not hapt so ill. My marring, was my making; my losse, my gaine. So that all fell out to the best. For from that time, euer since, haue I liu'd in grea∣ter credit, and better furnished with moneys, then before I was rob'd. I was growne rich, Sayavedra releeued, and Aguilera had well patcht vp a broken estate. I carryed my moneys home with me, as merrily as the heart of man can possibly imagine. I clapt it safe vnder locke and key, I looked charily vnto it, and lapt it vp very warme, that it might not catch cold. And albeit all things succeeded thus happely with me, yet Sayavedra, though he felt it, had it in his hands, and toucht it againe and againe, yet could he not beleeue it was there. It seemed vnto him as a dreame, and thought it an impossibilitie, that this bu∣sinesse should proue so lucky. He fell a blessing of himselfe with both his hands, as oft as he thought vpon my craft and subtletie. For albeit, when he was ac∣quainted with me in Rome, and knew my course of life, and did perceiue by my cariage, and manner of proceeding, that I had a subtle wit of mine owne, yet * 1.226 for all this did he not thinke, nor could be brought to beleeue, that I had so much store, as he now found to be in me. Or that I had beene so good an Ar∣cher as I was, d 1.227 to kill birds, as they were flying in the ayre. He supposed, I must haue come much short of himselfe; for he was many yeeres my ancient,

and might very well (for his standing) haue beene my master, and I his ap∣prentise some six yeeres at the least, to haue learned the Trade. I said then vnto him; Friend Sayavedra; This is true knowledge, this is the right skill of it, this the Art, and the cunning, to steale without danger, e 1.228 and to liue and thriue well by it. As for those things, which thou didst preach vnto me vpon the way, they were lessons of the Turkish Aleoran, meere toyes, and trifles to these. To steale a kirtle, and receiue a hundred stripes for it, euery foole can doe this. Your expences, f 1.229 exceed your receits; and the gaines, will not quit the cost. And therefore, wheresoeuer I shall come, such as you may vayle bonnet, strike sayle, stooping your standard to mee, reuerencing mee as your king and superiour.

Some two dayes after, comes Aguilera for his share, stealing by night vnto vs. And had it not beene for Say•…•…vedra, I had show'd him Velez his tricke, who ranne away with the bride, and the bride-cake too. The deuill a penny he should haue had of me. But because I was willing to vphold my reputation with him, and that he might not conceiue an ill opinion of me, by leauing so foule an impression of falsifying my word behinde me, and that he might not take occasion to say to himselfe; Surely, if this man deale so vniustly with ano∣ther, it is a thousand to one, he will vse me in the same manner. I must drinke in the end of the same cup, as he hath done; I would not hazard much, to get a little. Aguilera told vs, that his master was euen ready to dye for very griefe, and almost mad with imagining how this was brought about, and that it would not sinke into his head, but that this was the deuils doing, and that he, and none but he, was able to bring such a thing to passe. I told him out a hun∣dred crownes, for those Doblones of ten, which he had receiued of me with his * 1.230 owne hands, and gaue him iust to a haire, as much as his share came too. Hauing dispatcht him, I came to Sayavedra, and offred him his part, together with the gaines of the former fiue hundred crownes. But he told me, that he knew he was sure enough of them, when-soeuer he should haue occasion to vse them, and that not knowing well where to keepe them, he was content they should remaine still in my hands, till he should finde some fitter opportunitie to dis∣pose of them.

We continued in Milan, some ten or twelue dayes after this, though not altogether free from feare, lest the winde might chance to chop about; and therefore we did agree to goe from thence, and to get vs to Genoa, making no body liuing acquainted with our intended iourney, nor spake so much as one word of it our selues, for feare of what might follow thereupon. But rather gaue out, that wee were to goe for some other place, farre wide of that, faigning a businesse, which did much concerne vs, to make all the haste we could.

It was my chance (before I went away) to walke through one of the streets in Milan, wherein there was such choyce and variety of wares, and in that abundance, that I stood amazed at the sight of them; and by chance I espy de a chaine in a certaine shop, which they had sold to a Souldier: which in my eye, was one of the fairest that euer I saw. I had such a great good liking vnto it, and was so earnestly affected with it, that I was resolued either to buy it, in case they had not already agreed vpon the price, or to take order to haue iust such another made me. Whereupon, I drew neere vnto the stall, and standing by, began to looke vpon it, without giuing them to vnderstand that I had any minde thereunto; but it pleas'd me so well, and I was so taken with it, that vpon the sodaine, in that little scantling of time, taking it to be fine and pure gold, I had presently plotted in my head, how I might haue it along with me to Genoa, and that without any great labour. I stood listning, while he was bargaining for it, and while they were thus beating the price, the seller deman∣ded very little for it, which me thought was dog-cheape; whereupon I began

to suspect, that what hee asked, was rather for the workmanship of the chaine, then the chaine it selfe: but they, not agreeing on the price, I began present∣ly to pitch my hey; asking him what it might bee vvorth, and what it vveigh∣ed. I had no sooner made him this question; but the Merchant casting vp his head, lookes vpon mee, and falls withall a smiling, telling mee; Sir, this is not to bee sold by the weight; but taking it altogether as it is, wee sell it as reasonably as wee can afford it.

This word alone was enough; for by this I knew that it was false and coun∣terfeit: and holding it a great basenesse for so slight a toy to hazard much trea∣sure, and that this plot of mine, which I had already cast in my head, might stead mee better hereafter, reseruing it for some great occasion, and of more importance then this could bee; besides, being that no wise man will aduen∣ture his person for nifles in a bagge, I forbor•…•…o execute my purpose; wisely considering with my selfe, that if I should haue gone on with this, and mis∣carried therein, it would haue beene a sufficient proofe against mee, that I had plaid the Impostor in my late businesse with my Merchant. I presently therefore came to his price, and paid it him with as good a will as if it had been a thing of great value: and I must tell you, that I made no small reckoning of it, in regard of those designes for which I intended it; and particularly in that, which (as it afterwards fell out) turned to my exceeding great good and bene∣fit. For which purpose, (hauing the plot already in my pate) I resolued with * 1.231 my selfe to make mee one of gold out of hand, iust of the same making and fa∣shion as that was in euery respect, that you should not bee able to discerne which was which: so like would I haue them to bee the one to the other.

Whereupon I got me to a Gold-smith, who made it according to my minde, showing himselfe so good an Artizan, that should you haue taken them both into your hand, and compared them together, it was impossible to iudge which was the true one from the counterfeite, saue only by the sound and the weight; for the false one was somewhat lighter then the other, sounding more bell-like; whereas that of gold was more massie, and had a more churlish kinde of sound with it: it cost mee in the whole, about some sixe hundred and thirty Crownes, and I should not haue beene sory, if I had bestowed a thousand; for then that counterfeite one should haue yeelded mee as much: with them I bought like∣wise two little curious boxes, as like as like might be, to lay vp these chaines in, each by himselfe in his seuerall boxe, which were fitted and fashioned as I could haue wisht them.

And because all the ioynts of my body did still paine mee very much, con∣ceiting * 1.232 with my selfe that my ribs and my huckle bones were dislocated and slipt out of their right places, euer since that nights kinde entertainment, which my worshipfull Vncle gaue mee; which I haue kept hitherto written in my soule, the inke thereof being not as yet dry: and being now vpon the way for Genoa, I imparted some part of my minde to Sayavedra, not recounting vnto him all the whole Story of it; but onely acquainting him, that when I past that way, being but a childe to speake of, some of my friends had done mee an af∣front, and put a ieast vpon mee; because I was not either in such good cloathes as might honor and grace their company, or so flush of money, that they might get something by mee. And I was heart-angry with my selfe that I had told him so much; because hee should not take mee in a lye, if hee should chance to remember what I had told him before.

But letting that passe, and dwelling no longer vpon it, I went on in my dis∣course, and said farther more vnto him: if thou Sayavedra wert that true friend as thou professest thy selfe to be vnto me, thou wouldst ere this haue beene * 1.233 at Genoa, and haue reuenged the wrong that I there receiued. But I must bee inforced to doe it my selfe, supplying thy default, and neglect thereof, by mine owne industry. It will also well beseeme mee so to doe, that I may cancell

that obligation, and pay this debt that I owe them, to the end that those good turnes which they did mee, may bee fully requited; and receiue not onely the principall, but vse for forbearance. But to remoue all suspition, we must doe that which you and your brother did, change both our apparell and our names. I like very well of it (said Sayavedra) and further promise vnto thee, that I will inherit thy true name, that I may the better both imitate and serue thee. From hence forward therefore I style my selfe Guzmande Alfarache: and I (directing my speech to Sayavedra) will inuest my selfe with mine owne proper name, which I inherited from my Parents, and vntill now, haue not hitherto taken it vpon me. For, a Don ought to be a gift which comes from the holy Ghost; because it is admitted, and well receiued of others, or it must bee deriued from the direct line, from father to sonne. For your Dons, that now strut it vp and downe Italy, glorying more in this title, then the Peacocke in his painted plumes, are nothing but infamy and shame. For there is not a Spaniard in these parts, (though the sonne of a Cobler) but goes adorning himselfe with the name of Don, that hee may be held a Gentleman. And if it goe there as it doth here, a man may very well aske, without offence; who keepes the Swine? Henceforth, I call my selfe Don Iuan de Guzman: and with this title will I content my selfe. Then said Sayavedra, with a iocond heart and a cheer∣full countenance; Don Iuan de Guzman, g 1.234 Uictor, Uictor, Uictor: which name can become no man better then your selfe; so well it sutes with your noble actions: confusion light vpon that Trait or that shall seeke to spot it. Hee (my braue boy) that shall take it from thee, my curses shall pursue him to death. I had furnished my selfe in Milan, with as much rich silke Grogram, as would serue to make mee a cloake, and a h 1.235 Sotana; and so being prouided of all things necessary, wee began our iourney for Genoa.

CHAP. VIII.

Guzman de Alfarache comes to Genoa, where being knowne by his kindred, he is fea∣sted by them. He perswades euery one to liue vertuously; And showes the hurt, which Murmurers, Hypocrites, and false Witnesses, bring to mens soules, honours, and riches; He deliuereth the great profit, we shall gaine, by auoiding such venemous Basiliskes. And concludes with telling vs, who are true thieues indeed.

LOng will the vessell keepe that his sent and sauour, where∣with * 1.236 at first it hath beene fully seasoned. If the course of my life, the occasions and the chances that befell me, Loue, & Feare, had not opened the eyes of my vnderstan∣ding; if these I say, could not awaken me, and rouse me vp from the sleepe of my sinnes, and those vices, where∣in I was full'd so fast asleepe, I cannot perswade my selfe, that any other humane forces are of power to doe it. And howbeit, with stratagems, inuentions, deuices, and diuers other meanes, it might be brought otherwise to passe; yet not with that easinesse and facility, (as some may imagine.) For it will require a large Discourse, how, and in what sort, a man ought to make his election, by distinguishing profit, from dis-profit; iust, from vniust; and good, from ill. And when it once comes to this point, the businesse so stands then with him, That hee that will be but willing to put his owne helping hand to get out of that mire of sinne, wherein hee lies wal∣lowing, * 1.237 and endeuour to free himselfe from that muddy sinke of vice, those good inspirations of heauen, shall neuer be wanting vnto him, which fauou∣ring, and furthering his vertuous actions, will adde strength vnto his weak∣nesse,

and raise him vp from the death of sinne, to the life of grace. To the end, that knowing and acknowledging his fore-passed errors, he may learne to cor∣rect his faults for the present, and for the future, grow vp to perfection. But they that are deuoid of reason, who like the Bull, shut their eyes, and bowe * 1.238 downe their heads to giue a blow, following their owne wilfull appetite, sel∣dome or neuer, shall come to the knowledge of their owne misery. Because, like they that are blind, they will not see; and like those that are deafe, they will not heare: and out of a headstrong and wilfull humour, will not giue way, that any should crosse them in their lewd courses. They take great ioy and de∣light in walking in the path of their owne lusts; it seeming so long vnto them, that it shall neuer haue an end, or that this life of theirs shall euer come to be cut off; whose happinesse (they make account) doth onely consist in this their vaine and idle idolatry. These are men of a large life, but a farre larger conscience. They loue the broad, better then the narrow way. They know full well, that they doe ill; and therefore doe ill, because they haue no mind to doe well. They feigne them-selues to be ignorant of that, which they are not willing to vnderstand; yet wot well enough, that the thred of their life, goes daily wearing and wasting away; and that the string by which it holds, must cracke and breake in sunder, in the end; and then their perpetuall downe-fall, will fearfully and with a great deale of terror, present it selfe vnto them.

But because wee see that Gods hands are nayled fast, that they stirre not against vs, and that he is much grieued and afflicted for vs; we thinke, it would much vexe him, that we should be vexed. Such fooles as these, say to them-selues; * 1.239 we feele no paine, nor haue any aches, but are sound and lusty; wee want no money, but haue the world at will; our house is well furnisht, we haue plenty of prouision; let vs lye downe and sleepe, and take our ease, stretching our selues on our yuorie beds; let vs liue as merry as the day is long, sport while we may; we haue time enough before vs, we need not to make so much haste to goe vnto God, shortning that life, (by lessening our pleasures) which God hath allotted vnto vs. They deferre their doing of good, and put off their amendment of life, from an houre, to a day; from a day, to a weeke; from a weeke, to a month; from a month, to a yeare; and from one yeare, to many: so that houres, dayes, weekes, months, and yeares, runne posting along by vs; but this quando, this when, is not yet come; this time, that we should repent and amend our sinfull liues; And when it doth come, it shall bee happy for vs, if it come not too late. This is that debt which is said to be recouered at three seuerall payments; but if neither in our youth, our manhood, nor in our elder age, we doe satisfie this debt, the punishment that will light vpon vs for non payment, will be certaine, sharpe, and sodaine.

What meanes the Vsurer, that he hath not God in his mind, nor doth once thinke vpon him, acknowledging no other God, but his vngodly gaine? What * 1.240 the Wanton, who to please his lust, adoreth her, whom he ought rather to hate? and placeth all his happinesse in that, which he knowes must turne to his eter∣nall torment? What the Epicure, or the proud man, that sonne of Lucifer, who makes it his common practice, to martyr the innocent, being more cruell there∣in, then Dioclesian, oppressing the righteous, and persecuting the vertuous? What the vnprofitable Murmurer, who hoping to make himselfe a fortune, seekes to vndoe other men? Scraping, like the a 1.241 hen, to her owne hurt; whilst * 1.242 vsing diligences to preiudice others, they light vpon that, which workes their owne bane?

The man, that is honest, well able to liue, and of a good life, and ciuill conuersation, doth not rob, filch, nor steale; for he liues contented with those fauours which God hath beene pleased to bestow vpon him; hee maintaines himselfe with that, (be it more, or little) that he hath, feeds his familie, and sustaines both himselfe, and others. And such as these, are wont, in their con∣templations,

to lift vp their eyes to heauen, and to breathe forth this sweet and thankfull meditation: O Lord, I haue as much, as is needfull for me, and some∣what (I thanke thee) to spare, to giue vnto others. And these good Christians * 1.243 count it an happinesse and honor vnto them, when through Gods blessing, and goodnesse towards them, they are able to say; that they haue something yet remaining of their store, to giue vnto the poore, and such as need their reliefe.

The thiefe he steales, because it is his onely maintenance, hauing no other * 1.244 meanes to liue. And when all is gone, and that he hath nothing of his owne, he seekes to snatch from others, if he can but once come to lay his hands on it. He that is a noble Gentleman, will euer so farre forth respect his honour and credit as is fitting for him, and seeke to maintaine his port, and to liue like him-selfe, in a liberall and plentifull manner; but yet will not sticke to grace, and doe good to others.

But on the contrary, the Murmurer maintaines himselfe with the honor of * 1.245 his friend, and of his neighbour, robbing him of his good name, and lessening his worth, as much as in him lies; for, if he rob not others of it, he thinkes he shall not haue any for him-selfe. It is as strange, as to bee pittied, that the sea, should breed fishes, that haue no tongue; and the earth bring forth men, that haue too much: that the sea should afford vs Soles; and the earth, men that haue no soules.

Your Hypocrites, who boast their letters of credit, which they haue giuen * 1.246 to the world; are like vnto those that play at Tennis, who strike the ball against the ground, that it may the better come to their hand, and tossing it to and fro in the ayre, keepe it vp a good while, till it come to be either a chase, or a losse. But of all other, most wretched, and most miserable are those men, who make long prayers with their lips, and deuoure with their mouthes, the goods of the poore, the widow, and the fatherlesse. Wherefore God will seuerely punish these holy offenders; holy in outward show, but not in heart. An Hypocrite, is like vnto a gun, that is charg'd; for euery man doth not know, what is within it, or whether it be charg'd or no; but if you once put fire to it, the least sparke wil send forth a bullet, that shall ouerthrow a gyant, and lay him on the ground: So, your Hypocrite, vpon euery little occasion, how-soeuer hee may seeme for the present to haue no harme in him, will vent his malice, and be ready to doe you a mischiefe; and when you least thinke of it, giue you such a blow, that your shall neuer be able to rise againe.

There are a certaine sort of men, that are like vnto your dry witherd Peare∣trees; * 1.247 leane, tall, and stooping; hanging their heads in their bosomes, as if they would seeme to bee Saints, and goe lapt vp in a long thred-bare cloake, as if they were to accompany a Coarse to the graue, or were them-selues to be inter∣red. These are fooles of the first forme; and will with this their dissimulation and graue carriage, make vs beleeue, that they are wonderfull wise, and of great vnderstanding. These I say are principall fooles; they will steale you foure or fiue sentences out of this, or that other Author, whereof they make a Galli∣mafrie, seruing them in, as a dish of their owne making, recommending it vnto vs as theirs. They feigne their iustice, to be equall with that of Traianes; their sanctitie, with that of Saint Paul; their wisedome, with that of Salomon; their sincerity, with that of Saint Francis; yet vnder this cloake, what shall you find? If you search it well, you shall find, an hypocriticall knaue, a seeming Sanctifice∣tur, but as arrant a villaine, as euer trode vpon a shooe of leather. They carry a leane, and meager countenance, but their workes flourished ouer with pain∣ting; little breeches, but large consciences; nothing but yes verily, and indeed, in their mouthes; but their heart is full of lies; a publike kind of cha∣rity, but an insatiable secret auarice; they manifest a kinde of abstinence and fasting, as well from meates, as temporall meanes; but their throats are so drie,

and their thirst so great, that they will swallow vp the whole Sea, deuoure other mens estates, and yet be so farre from being satisfied therewith, that they remaine as thristy as they did before. They say, they haue enough, and more then enough, and that much lesse would serue their turne, and is more then they are worthy of; yet are they so greedily giuen, that they are neuer conten∣ted, and nothing can fill their hungry maw. They are like vnto your Dates; soft and sweet without, but hard and stonie within. They carry hony-combes in their mouthes, but wormewood in their hearts. They haue sweet tongues, but sowre soules. Great pitie is to be taken of these men, for that they suffer so much, and enioy so little; and are finally condemned to Hell, for this one poore fading vanitie, to be esteemed honest and religious, when indeed they are nothing lesse. So that, they neither cloath their backs, nor feed their bel∣lies, according to their owne content and liking, but goe vp and downe in a miserable kinde of manner, afflicted, hunger-staru'd, withered, pale, and wanne, denying them-selues ordinarie necessaries for the vse of this life, not being able truly to say, that they haue had one houre of content in this world, bearing alwayes about them a troubled bodie, and an vnquiet minde, their corps, and conscience equally suffering. Now if this, which they thus, and in this manner suffer, as they doe it, and endure it, onely for the worlds sake, and to seeme out∣wardly holy, that thereby they may gaine a good opinion amongst men; if they would doe this, I say, for Gods sake, laying aside their dissimulation, and not debarring them-selues of those good blessings, which God hath created for mans vse and comfort; questionlesse, in so doing, they might leade a happy life in this world, and enioy euerlasting happinesse in the world to come.

Let vs say something of your false witnesse; whose punishment doth giue satisfaction to the people, and is pleasing vnto all men, taking pleasure in their * 1.248 chasticement, in regard of the hainousnesse of their offence. For, for a matter of sixe Marauedis, a thing of nothing, you shall haue them sweare sixe thousand falshoods, and take away sixe hundred thousand mens credits, and estates from them, which lies not afterwards in their power to make restitution thereof. And as your day-labourers, and other workemen, repaire to certaine set-places, appointed for that purpose, to be hired by those that haue occasion to vse them; so doe these kind of men come to your Courts, your Consistories, your places of publike businesse, euen to the very Offices where your Notaries are a writing, to learne how things goe there, and to offer their seruice to those that haue need of them. And if this were all, the matter were not great, but it is worse then you thinke it is; for the very Officers of the Courts them-selues, doe maintaine and countenance these lewd fellowes, that in those causes that occurre (as occasion shall serue,) they may make vse of them for their aduan∣tage, suborning them to beare false witnesse, for the prouing of such, or such a businesse, which they will not sticke to testifie vpon oath. This I assure you, that I now tell you, is no iest; nor doe I therefore speake it vnto you, to make you beleeue that which is not so; nor doe I lie one iot, in all that I haue said vnto you. For there are false witnesses enough to be found, if any man be di∣sposed to buy them. And are as frequent in your Notaries Office; as Conserues in an Apothecaries shop. Or like horse-leeches in a glasse, ready prepared for the businesse, when-soeuer you shall be pleased to put them vpon it. Let those that haue a minde vnto them, goe to D. N. his Office; I was about to name him, before I was aware, but tis all one; for I am sure you all know him, or can giue a shrewd guesse whom I meane; there shall you haue these Knights of the Poste, at all kind of prices, as you shall haue pies in a Cookes shop; some for eight Royals, some for foure, some for two, and some for halfe a Royall, as choosing rather to play small game, then wholly to sit out.

But if it be a weighty cause indeed, there is also another sort of them, of a higher rank, and at a higher rate, as we see there are pies for weddings, and for

great feasts, which will cost you somewhat more then ordinary; these are those, that are Musket-proofe, and will (to strike the matter dead) not sticke to sweare, that vpon their owne knowledge, for these foure-score yeares, they re∣member such and such a conueyance was past thus and thus, such a piece of land past ouer after this or that manner, and a hundred the like.

Like to that Country-clowne, who being a shallow braind coxe-combe, a * 1.249 very lob-cocke, being brought into the Court by his Land-lord, to wit∣nesse a thing in his behalfe; and instructed by him, that when hee should be askt how old hee was, should answer, he was eighty yeares old. The silly fellow, did not well vnderstand him, but being desirous (as it should seeme) to doe his Land-lord a pleasure, being demanded touching his age, tooke his oath, that he was eight hundred yeares old. And albeit the Notary wondring at this so inconsiderate and vnaduised an oath, did aduise him to take heed what hee said; he clownishly made answer, Doe thou take heed how thou writest, and stand not a sifting of other mens liues, but let euery man bee as old as hee will him-selfe. Afterwards, the Notary reading the report of this witnesse, when he came to the point concerning his age, the Iudge apprehended it to bee the Notaries error, and would haue punisht him for it; but hee excused himselfe, saying; That he did no more, then what did belong to his office, in setting that downe aright, which he receiued from the witnesse his owne mouth; and that although he had admonished him thereof, and bid him be better aduised, yet he stood stifly in it, and ratified what he had said before, saying; That he was of that age, and that he should so set it downe. The Iudges caus'd the wit∣nesse to make his personall appearance; and demanding of him, why hee had sworne, that he was eight hundred yeares old. Because (and it like your Lord∣ships) it was for the seruice of God, and the Conde, my master.

There are store of false witnesses euery where, the streets are full of them, they are to be hyred for money, but he that will saue his purse, and haue them for nothing, let him seeke out some kinsman or other, that is his enemie, with whom thou wagest law; for he to be reuenged of him, will sweare any thing against the whole generation of thy aduersarie. But from these malitious min∣ded men, good Lord deliuer vs. For they doe vs the greatest hurt.

But let vs leaue these kinde of men, and come to those of mine owne occu∣pation, and to that our Companie, or Brotherhood, which is the ancientest and greatest that is in the world. For I would not haue thee to tit me in the teeth, that I haue a pen for others, and let mine owne stand idle in my standish, or else cause it to runne another way. I will not passe by this doore, without knock∣ing at it, and that soundly too; I will not lye lazing in the shade, nor making my selfe merry in the Tauerne.

A thiefe, what will he not doe, to steale? Which word Thiefe, I apply to * 1.250 such poore sinfull creatures as my selfe. As for your great rich theoues, such as ride on their foot-clothes of veluet, that hang their houses with hangings of tiss•…•…e and costly arras, and couer the floores of their chambers with gold and silke, and curious Turky-carpets, and often hang such poore snakes as wee are, I haue nothing to say to them. For wee are farre inferiour vnto them, and are those little fishes, which these great ones doe deuoure. They liue braue∣ly, vpheld by their reputation, graced by their power, and fauoured by flatte∣rie; These, are of that strength, that they breake the gallowes; hempe was not sowen for them, nor for them were your Galleys built, except it be to beare command in them. Of which command, it may be, that we shall remember to say something in its proper time and place, if we hap to come thither, as I hope in God, we shall. But let vs now speake of those theeues, that are not fit to be left out, such as my selfe, and my seruant Say•…•…vedra. We will not touch vpon those that rob Iustice; for there are none such I trow that will doe so, nor is it knowne, who they be. And if peraduenture there be any such, that haue

done so, we haue already spoken thereof at large in our first Part. Nor will we speake of your Rulers, nor Gouernours, nor your Counsellors of State, for we haue likewise created thereof heretofore; besides, their managing of these matters, is not of any importance at all, or worth the talking of. For take them out of their tracke, put them from their whole-sale, and turne them to retayle, or remoue them from that pond, wherein they haue liu'd, and they are to seeke which way to winde them-selues; I will not giue a button for the best of them.

But some perhaps will taxe me, and say; That thou art, as they are; both birds of a feather; seeing thou art so willing to smother their lyes, their de∣ceits, and their falshoods. For, if it should be demanded, what meanes hath Master N? The answer would be; Sir, He is a Regidor. What, is he no more then a Regidor? How liues he then thus gallantly? How can his Office alone maintaine this brauery, hauing no set reuenues, or other rents comming in be∣sides, considering what a port he carryes, what a house he keepes, what store of seruants, and horses, that continually attend him? You say well Sir. But I per∣ceiue by you, that you doe not truly vnderstand the mysterie of it, nor rightly conceiue, how this may be brought about. True it is, that he hath no rents, but he hath his renters, and none can execute that Office without his licence, paying him so much rent for it; whereof the greatest part comes to the Regidor, the rest remaines to the renter, to the end, that he also may liue, and haue where-withall to discharge his rent. But why doest thou not speake freely what thou knowest concerning these men? I may not, nor I dare not; for if any man should presume to speake of them, oppose himselfe, though neuer so little against them, or but once offer to question either their lifes, or their acti∣ons, they will make him hold his peace with a pestilence, they will neuer suffer him to liue in quiet, but force him for his owne ease to flie the Country. For being (as they are) men of great place and power, they will presently fall a fee∣ling, to finde a b 1.251 straw in thine eare; that is, they will seeke a hole in thy coat, * 1.252 and picke some one quarrell or other against thee, and either by right, or by wrong, they will ouerthrow thee, if not vtterly vndoe thee. They are like vnto your Cupping-glasses; which (where they once fasten) sit close and hard to thy skin, and neuer leaue drawing and sucking, till they haue haled from thee what they would haue, nor is there any taking of them off, till they be as full as they can hold. I could also tell thee, that no man dares say; Blacke is their eye; or goe about to haue them punisht. For whosoeuer he be, that offers that, it fares with him, as it vsually doth with your pipkins; which when they are set full of water ouer the fire, they no sooner begin to boyle, but the water runneth ouer, and puts out the fire that was the occasion thereof.

Vnderstand you me now? Yes marry doe I: And, it may be, they passe ouer these things the better, by reason of their good Angels of guard, which free them from those blowes, that would otherwise fall vpon them, and rid them out of all their troubles. I could tell thee likewise somewhat which thou hast left out, that if these men, after they were hanged, should haue their causes heard, and see what they could say for them-selues, euen those very men would then plead stiffely against them, who heretofore were in their fauour; but now for the feare, that they haue of them, they are well content to eat their meat in quiet, and to hold their tongues. I could tell thee besides, if I would vnmaske these men, that they fare daintily at other mens cost, haue what they will, ei∣ther for nothing, or dog-cheape, making the poore to pay for it, who must pay most, and fare worst. But it is now time to make a full point, and to leaue them with their Agentes, and Consentientes, their instruments, and their copart∣ners to them-selues: For in conclusion, they are, as thou art; and worse then thou, and doe much more hurt; for thou doest but damnifie one house alone; but these a whole Country.

O what good counsell dost thou giue mee! But let mee wish thee (my friend) to make vse of it thy selfe. Think'st thou perhaps to saue thine owne fingers from burning, to take the c 1.253 Cat by the foote, and therewith to rake the * 1.254 coales out of the Ouen? If thou knowest this to be true, or hast any thing else to say of them, speake it your selfe for me: for I haue told thee all that I know, and I would not willingly that they should deale with mee, as thou say est they deale with others: for I haue no minde to come vnder their lash. Suffice it thee, that contrary to that decorum that is fitting for the greatnesse of their place and quality; I haue inlarged my selfe in speaking more already; then may well become mee. Nor am I willing to oblige my selfe anew, to sift their liues, nor diue into their doings, being there is no good to bee gotten by it, if things runne along in this straine there in Italy, God bee thanked, that I am going for Spaine, where no such robberies as these are vsed. But because I am a Spaniard, thou wilt say, that all the world is my Countrey; it is true; and in saying so, thou doest not lye. But shall I tell thee one thing? I know how all this may bee remedied, and that very easily too, to the great augmentation and good of the Common-wealth, and by the generall consent of all good sub∣iects, to Gods good seruice, and the Kings great honour; but for the better effecting thereof, I must be forced to follow the King, presenting his Maiestie with memoriall vpon memoriall, Petition vpon Petition: and when I shall haue brought the businesse to a good passe, and as it were to the very vpshot, such a Fauourite, or such a great Lord, Don B. buzzes him in the eare, and tels him, that it is an idle and foolish Proiect, and vnable to take effect. For, it re∣flecting generally vpon them all, they out of their great power will trample me vnder foote, and crush mee, that I shall neuer bee able to lift vp my head any more, leauing mee in farre poorer taking, then I was before. But I am affraid to wade too farre in this deepe water, for feare of drowning. A shallower ford is safer, and fitter for me to dippe my foote in: because I speake the truth, they count mee a base and obscure fellow; and for that I presume to giue them wholsome counsell and sound aduice, they call mee Rogue, brand me with the name of Picaro, and thrust mee out of doores by head and shoulders, scorning such a Iack-sauce, and down-right raskall as I am. But they shall not carry it away so. Let them take their course, and wee will take ours, treading in the steps of our noble Ancestors: and (God grant) that they that come after, doe no worse then wee doe, Onely, I will bee bold to tell you thus much; that there are farre more thieues then there are Physitians. Neither need any man to make himselfe such a Saint, as to take offence when hee heares the name of a thiefe spoken of, shewing himselfe queasie-stomack'd, and seeking to disgrace him, till hee aske this question of himselfe; whether, either here, or there, hee hath not in his life time playd thee thiefe himselfe? And to this end, I would haue him to know; that to steale, is no other thing then to detaine that which * 1.255 is another mans, contrary to the will of its owner.

For mine owne part, I would make no more reckning, that a man did not know that I had any thing of his, then if hee did know it, and had giuen it me with his owne hand, so as hee bee not able to hurt mee, and haue not the po∣wer to take it away from mee againe by force. I learned this Lesson from my Childhood, though I did not alwayes put it in practice. I was like vnto a tree, that is cut downe to the very roote, which leaues some liue-sap still remaining, by meanes whereof it growes in time to bee a new Plant, and begins to beare the same fruit it did before. And you shall see by and by, how quickly I returne to my old bias. While I left off stealing, I was like vnto forc'd∣earth, I was out of my proper Center; now, with a little vse, I am come to the same lewd course that I ran before. When I was a Lad, I was quick and nimble, I had a facility in filching, and could lay hand on any thing, were it neuer so hard to come by. But now that I am turn'd Man, me thought at the first, I was

growne gowty, both in my feete and hands; I found my selfe much slower, and duller then I was wont to bee: but in a very short time I recouered my for∣mer health.

I continued my accustomed thefts, & took such pleasure in them, as a Souldi∣er could not more in his armes; nor a Ginet in his trappings, and other his rich furniture. When any doubts did arise, I did resolue them; if they were to seeke for Plots, I did inuent them: and in all weighty businesses, I was their safe∣gard and defence: they would hearken vnto my aduice, as to the answeres of some Oracle; there being no man that would contradict my rules, nor with∣stand my lawes, nor reply to any thing that I should once determine. Those that were best practiz'd amongst them that frequented the Hospitall of Sarago∣ca, and Guadalupe came short of me; though I vs'd the trade but now and then, like the intermissions of an Ague: for, when all things else fail'd mee, and that I knew not what shift to make, I had this, my fiue finger for a helpe, this did neuer forsake mee in the time of neede: it was sure money in my purse, and stucke as close to my necke, as my Lord Embassadors chaine did, which a long time escaped many a faire danger. The trade of thieuing was as proper to me, as laughing is proper to man; nay, I had almost said, that it was as a Character not to bee blotted out, such deepe impression had it taken in my soule. But when I did not exercise the same, it was not any want of good will; for that was euer ready, and at hand.

I, and Sayavedra went out of Milan well lined, and better prouided of all things that were needfull for our iourney: so that there was no man but would * 1.256 haue taken mee for a very rich man, and one of note and quality. But how ma∣ny * 1.257 bee there that might very well haue said, Sit downe d 1.258 Gallants, and fall to; for this feast is prouided for you. For, as a mans apparell is, so e 1.259 is his esteeme: And they that know not a man otherwise, make their censure according to * 1.260 his cloathes. If thou wert Cicero himselfe, and shouldst goe ill clad, thou shouldst be no longer Cicero, at least a scuruy Cicero, whom the world would scorne, and count a mad man. For there is no other wisedome, nor learning in the world, then the hauing of so much more wealth, and so much more land then another man. And he that is not so, may like a dog, goe shake his eares without doors: he is like money that is not currant; he passes not for any thing where-soeuer hee come. They will neither offer thee a chaire to sit downe, nor giue thee the vpper hand, when they shal see thee vvithout a feather, though thou bee rich apparelled with vertue and knowledge; but of such now a dayes, there is little or no reckoning made. But if thou bee gloriously set out, and richly suted, though thou be neuer so base a Groome, euery mans eye is vpon thee, euery mans hat ready to honour thee. Bee thou as base and vile as any dunghill; yet if it bee couered ouer with greene grasse, many will set themselues downe vp∣on it, and there recreate and refresh themselues. But Catulus was not of this * 1.261 minde; who when hee saw Nonius riding in a triumphant Chariot, stickt not to say, what a deale of dung doth this Cart carry? Giuing vs thereby to vn∣derstand, that dignities doe not grace the vicious. But there are now but few Catuls, though there bee many Nonii. Nay, wert thou but good Alchimie, that shall bee adored in thee, because of its glorious and gaudy glittering. Men doe iudge now more by the eye, then the eare; by what they see, then by what they heare: the outside is more looked on, then the inside looked into: a rich rayment sounds louder then a good report. No man considers what thy knowledge is, but what thy wealth is: they talke not so much of thy vertue, as of thy purse: and of thy purse, not what thou hast in it, but what thou spendest out of it. I was well appointed, well apparelled, and g owne fowre inches thicke, with other folkes f 1.262 fat.

When I came to Genoa, they knew not in my Lodging what cheere to make mee, nor how to please mee in my diet, I was growne so dainty and so curious.

I then began to call to minde the first entrance that I made into that Citie, and * 1.263 in how different a manner I was there receiued; and how I was forced from thence, carrying my Crosse vpon my shoulders; and how now they receiue mee, spreading their cloakes on the ground. Wee alighted, and fell to our victuals. That day I was willing to take mine ease, and to rest my selfe after my iourney. The next morning I apparelled my selfe, à lo Romano, no Ro∣mane of them all could weare a fairer Cloake, & Sotana, in which I walked vp and downe the streets. All mens eyes were cast vpon mee, as well for that I was a stranger, as likewise in regard I was well clad, and of a presence not to be despised. They askt my seruant, who I was? Hee told them, Don Iuan de Guzman, a Gentleman of Seuilla: And when I heard them inquire after mee, * 1.264 I would pop vp my head, stretching out my necke, some what more then ordi∣nary, thinking vvith my selfe, that I had some ten pound vveight of Bread more in my Belly, then I had before: so Peacocke-like was I blowne vp with Pride, and such store of this puffe-past of vaine-glory had I swallowed downe my throat. Hee told them that I vvas newly come from Rome. They de∣manded farther of him, if I were rich; because they saw me come from thence in a differing fashion from the rest: for they that goe to the Court of Rome, and to other Princes Courts, are like vnto those that go to the vvarres, who thinke * 1.265 all the world must now bee theirs, and that they haue already finished what they went for; vvith which vaine hopes they vsing to flatter themselues; they lash out into extraordinary expences vpon the vvay, as likewise in the Court; till the Court leaues them so curtail'd, that they haue scarce ere a ragge left them to couer their breech; returning home afterwards, vveary in their bo∣dies, poore in their purses, discontented in their mindes, and driuen to that extreame want, that they must either almost starue or begge their bread. They goe thither fresh and liuely, flush of money, and rich in cloathes; whom I can liken to nothing better, then to the fish called the Tunny; vvhich, when it is full of spawne, is also full of fish, fat and faire to see to, and is very good meate; but vvhen her Spawne is gone from her, shee turnes lanke, leane, and vnseaso∣nable; prouing as vnprofitable to the stomacke, as it is vnpleasing to the Palate.

They likewise enquired of him, whether I were to continue there for any long time, or past onely along as a Traueller, taking it in my way. To all which questions, Sayavedra gaue such answers, as I could my selfe haue wisht: Tel∣ling them that I was the only sonne of a widow-gentle-woman, of very good quality, being a wonderfull wealthy dame, which was wife to a certain Gentle∣man of Genoa, and that I was come thither to expect certaine Letters and di∣spatches, and then to returne backe againe to Rome; and that in the interim, I would recreate my selfe here in Genoa, taking much pleasure in the sight of this stat•…•…ly City; for that I knew not when I should make my returne, nor for what part, or whither I should euer haue the like opportunity to see it againe. The Inne, where I lay, was the best in all the Towne, and is commonly called, L'Hosteria di santa Marta, whither the most part of your Noblemen, and Gentlemen did vsually resort. There wee remained, making merry, and spen∣ding our money, without doing our selues any g 1.266 good at all in point of profit, nor did we as yet goe about it. And in keeping thus our ground, wee came to gaine ground. The Clocke doth not alwayes strike, but staies till its houre comes, and when by a little and a little the time creepes on, that is limited thereunto, why then it strikes. I playd now and then, but not for much money, with some other guests, that were in the house, more for company sake, and to passe away the time, then any thing else, not vsing any other helpe then mine owne fortune, and skill in gaming; Sayavedra had now no hand in the busi∣nesse, nor did I vse to set his plough a worke, saue in deepe and fat grounds, where there was hope of a plentifull haruest; I kept him for Holidayes, his at∣tendance

was, when there was a great feast, and a full boord; but for such poore pittances as these, not worth the sitting downe for, I was well content hee should spare his labor. For, when the losings or the gettings could not be much, the best course then (me thought) was to proceed plainly and sincerely. Yet, * 1.267 when I plaid small game, I went along with a leaden foot, marking and obser∣uing this, and that other Card; and if Fortune did not fauour me, and that my crosse-carding was such, that I could not light on a lucky encounter, I would giue off with a little losse: but if the wind blew faire, and that I found good fortune was comming towards me, I neuer left following my good lucke, till I had swept vnto me all the money on the boord.

And it so fell out, that hauing one day wonne a matter of a hundred Crowns, and somewhat more, it was a Captaines hap, that had the command of a Gally, to sit by me, who I perceiu'd, lik't very well of my manner of play, and was very glad that I had got the money; and reading in his lookes, that he had no great store of Crownes in his purse, but was rather in extreame want and ne∣cessity, I gaue him sixe Doblones of two, which in that coniuncture, considering his pouerty, seemed vnto him to be sixe thousand.

There is a time, when one single Royall, is more to a man then a hundred; nay a thousand perhaps at another time, will not doe him so much good. For the which he made me such a thankfull acknowledgement, as if the fauour I had done him, had beene much more then it was, or some matter of greater moment. And this fell out very happily for me; for hauing afterwards vnder∣stood from him-selfe, of what disease he was sicke, and where his griefe lay, at that instant, was mine owne remedy likewise represented vnto me, and quickly found out, that I was to make him the needle that must knit my net. In a word, I effected what I desired. He spends nothing, who buyes that he hath need of. I distributed likewise some few Crownes amongst the rest of the stan∣ders by, to make them the better deuoted, and affectioned towards mee, and that I might leaue euery man well pleas'd and contented. Insomuch, that by this my affable, franke and bountifull carriage, I grew into that credit and good opinion amongst them, that I had wonne their hearts, and got the good w•…•…ll and loue of all men; and it is an old saying, That hee that sowes h 1.268 well, * 1.269 reapes well. And I can assure you, that as many as conuersed with me, would haue hazarded their liues for me, if need had beene. Wherewith I found my selfe so iocond, my body so lightsome, my heart so comforted, my blood so cleare, and my spirits so quickned, that my cheekes were as fresh, and red as the Rose, and mine eyes did sparkle, and lookt so merrily, as if they had laught for ioy.

This Captaine was called Fauelo; not that this was his proper name, but because it was giuen him by a certaine Mistresse of his, whom hee sometimes serued; which he was willing still to retaine in remembrance of her beauty, and his owne misfortune; the whole story whereof, hee at large related vnto me; as how dearly she loued him, how much she made of him, indearing the sweetnesse of her disposition, her gentle behauiour, and the gracefulnesse of her person; all which commendable qualities, poysoned with some vaine and false appearances, were drowned in the end by a desperate torment of iealou∣sie, and such other beastly thoughts, as are still waiting vpon it. And from that time forward, he would neuer suffer me to be alone, but was for the most part continually with me, and did embrace my friendship with the greatest loue that could be. Whereupon, I intreated him, that he would be pleased to make vse of my person, if I might be any way seruiceable vnto him, and to be my guest, and take such fare as I had, and though I knew I did bid him to his losse, as keeping a better Table of his owne, yet for my sake, and the contentment I should take therein, he ought in courtesie to accept of it. I omitted no meanes, for the obliging of him vnto me, and the continuing of him still to bee my

friend. He had me along with him to his Galley, feasted me, and made me take my pleasure in her, all along the coast, plowing daily such deepe furrowes for the better taking root of this our new friendship and acquaintance, that if mine had gone on in the true course of vertue, there it might haue found a Hauen wherein to haue harbourd it selfe. But I was made of nothing but fraud and deceit. Yet would I be alwayes laying a firme foundation, that might well haue seru'd for the raising of a better building: but at last it came all to nothing; be∣ing (like that foolish builder) who knew better how to beginne, then to make an end of his building. Wee did communicate many particular accidents and secrets each to other, but hee came not within my shirt, he had not pierced into my bosome, Sayavedra onely kept the key of that Cabinet, and none but hee knew the secrets of my soule.

This Favelo was of a good behauiour, witty, discreet, valiant, patient, and yet full of mettall, qualities well befitting so valiant a Captaine, and so amo∣rous a Souldier, by meanes whereof he liu'd alwayes in want. And it is a com∣mon mis-fortune that accompanies these good qualities, that they are still way∣ted on by pouerty (or to speake more properly) by beggery. Now I, who was not ignorant of his wants, sought in all that I could to releeue his necessi∣ties, and to free him from these his extremities, that thereby I might bind him the surer vnto me. I carryed my selfe so fairly and so cunningly, both with him, and as many as I conuersed withall, that (like Hawkes) I made them all to stoope to my lure. And within a few dayes, my name and credit was so good amongst them, that I could battle largely vpon it, and might haue receiued any courtsie in that City, if I had beene willing to make vse thereof. Whereupon, partly out of this, and partly the ancient desire that I had to know something concerning my selfe, lest the not knowing of it, might make me take thought, and so sicken, and dye of griefe; considering with my selfe, that being in that good state I now was in, a handsome young fellow, well clad, good parts, and a good purse, no man whatsoeuer could hold it any disparagement vnto him, to acknowledge mee for his kinsman; but that which did most sway with me, * 1.270 was the earnest desire that I had to be fully reuenged of him, who had abused me in that base manner. This did often trouble me; nor could I sleepe in quiet, as oft as I thought vpon it.

I had not staid long in towne, but I found out a father and a mother, and came to know all my kindred. Those, which before threw stones at mee, as if I had beene some strange curre, whom they would chase out of their doores, did beginne now to quarrell, who should haue me first home to his house, who make mee greatest cheere, who giue me the noblest entertainment, one seeking to out-vye another. The very first day that I made this enquiry, my kindred was more (I imagine) then my credit, and might be better knowne then trusted amongst them; for no man is ashamed to owne a rich man for his kinsman, though hee be vicious and ill giuen; but all flye from a vertuous man, if they once haue him in the winde, and finde that he stinkes of pouerty, I need not to indeare this poynt vnto you, it is so common a thing.

Riches, is like vnto fire, which albeit it belong to a different place, and is * 1.271 onely prouided for one particular roome, yet notwithstanding as many as come neere vnto it, warme themselues, though they take not so much as a coale * 1.272 from thence; and i 1.273 the more fire, the more heate. How many shall you see war∣ming them-selues by the fire in a rich mans hall? of whom, if you shall but aske what they make there, or what's their businesse? They will answer you; No great businesse. Doe they perhaps giue me any thing? Alas, what doest thou get, by curring fauour with them, by soothing them vp, by crowching and creeping vnto them, by assisting day and night in base and seruile offices, mis∣spending that time, which thou mightst better bestow in gaining thy meate else-where? It is true Sir, that I benefit my selfe here but little, yet can I not

choose, but come and warme my selfe at Sen̄or N. house, as others doe. You, and such others as you be, tell me I pray, what you are? and be not angry with me, if I plainly tell you, you are all fooles.

But to returne againe into our way. Many of my kindred came vnto mee, euery one desiring to make himselfe better knowne vnto me, and offering his seruice in such complementall manner, as was befitting my fashion; and there was one amongst the rest, who for to honor, and oblige me the more, did chal∣lenge ancient kindred of me, euen from our great grand-fathers. I would, for curiosities sake, faine know, what was become of that good old man, which put that former tricke vpon me; and that I might doe it without any the least suspition or iealousie in the world, I demanded of them, whether my father had any more brothers? or if hee had, whether any of them were yet aliue, or no? For, I was euer of the minde, that he that plaid the rogue with me, was my Vnckle. They told me, yes. That there were three of them in all, my Father, and two more: and that the middle most was dead, but that the eldest of all was liuing, and that he dwelt here in the Citie. They told me that he had liu'd a bachelor all the dayes of his life, that he was a man of great meanes, and the top of all our kindred, and gaue such particular tokens of him, whereby I came to know him. I said that I would goe kisse his hands the next day: But when this was told him, and that hee vnderstood of my qualitie, albeit he were very old, he came trudg•…•…ng with his st•…•…ffe in his hand, as decrepit as he was, to visit me, accompanyed with some of the chiefest of our linage. I knew him as soone as euer I saw him, though he was now growne very lame and aged. I was glad to see him, but sory that hee was so old, I could haue wisht him much younger, that he might the longer haue felt the smart of those ierkes, that I was resolued to bestow on him. I count that man a foole, who to reuenge himselfe of his enemy, will take away his life; for that being ended, all his paine is ended with it. When I would take a reuenge, I would handle it so, as I did with these my kinsmen, that they may not forget it as long as they liue, but beare the wofull remembrance of it with them to their graues. I desired to be reuenged of this man, and wisht that hee had beene at least in the same state as I left him, that I might in the same, haue paid him the debt I ow'd him: who had without any cause or reason in the world, vs'd mee so vnworthily. He made mee many offers of his house; the very naming onely whereof, made my bloud to boyle in my brest.

Now (me thought) the Bats were fluttering about mine eares, that the Gnats began to sting me, and that from vnderneath the bed, crept out those old Hob∣gobblins, and fire-spitting deuils, which tormented mee heretofore. No, no; once was enough of this iest; I would bite no more at this bait. The Cat hath * 1.274 k 1.275 cozened me once, and is gone away with her prey, but she shall serue mee so no more. I shall take heede of her against another time. Marry, I said to my selfe; Onely Sayavedra, may put another tricke vpon me, but it will not bee much for his profit. But (excepting him) let any man else deceiue mee the se∣cond time, and I will freely forgiue him.

We talked of many things; and amongst diuers other questions, he deman∣ded of me, if I had beene heretofore in Genoa? Are you thereabouts (thought I;) I shall watch you well enough for that, you shall not catch me with thie trap, as old and crafty as you be. So (lying at my close fights) I answered him, that I had not; onely I told him, that much about some three yeares since, that I past this way, but could not (though I would) stay longer then one night, because I was going in great haste to Rome, vpon pretension of a certaine bene∣fice. * 1.276 Then he told me, with a great deale of pause & deliberation, dreaming per∣haps that he had lighted on a story that should please me wonderfull well, Some seuen yeares agoe, little more or lesse, there came hither (my good Cozen) to this towne, a little roguish boy; whom none that saw him, but would haue

taken him to be a thiefe, or at least a young disciple of theirs; who, that hee might the more easily rob me, came to my house, giuing mee some particular signes and tokens of my brother, that is now in glory; as also of your mother; telling me, that hee was his sonne, and my nephew; This is true that I tell you (Cozen) thus, and in this manner came he vnto me: but hee lookt so like a Rogue, and we had that suspition of him, that not owning him for our kins∣man, lest his infamy might reflect vpon our family, and turne to our disgrace, we sought to make him leaue this Citie, and so he did, by meanes of a pretty plot which we had deuised for him. I can assure you (Cozen) that hee went flying from hence, like a dog that hath a bladder, with some few rattling pibles in it, tide to his tayle; we could neuer more set sight on him, nor doe we know whether he be dead or aliue, as if the earth had then swallowed him vp quicke. With the leualtos & high-bounding capers that he cut, flying finely in the aire, with no other help then a Couerlet, without the which, (you know) your tum∣blers cannot handsomely doe their feates of actiuity; I very well remember that he left my bed, (whether out of feare, or what other accident I know not) full of honey-combes. This iest prou'd a very good one; for fearing (if he staid any longer here) to haue a worse put vpon him, hee got him packing, and so we were fairly rid of him. And I cannot choose but laugh, as oft as I thinke vpon it: For questionlesse this Rogue had a purpose to deceiue vs. But I be∣leeue he will remember this nights lodging (if he be yet aliue) the longest day that he hath to liue. And I haue beene often angry with my selfe, and haue beshrewd my fingers a thousand times ouer and ouer, that I vs'd him no worse.

All that liad formerly past, he related vnto me very solemnly, omitting no one circumstance: As the contriuing of the plot, his making him goe supper∣lesse to bed (supposing that might haue holpe to saue his sheets) and which was worse then all the rest, his tossing in a blanket.

I poore man, that was this little rogue that had suffered all this, and had re∣ceiued such hard measure from them, apprehended it so feelingly, as if I had beene afraid I should haue gone to this geare againe: My flesh did breake out (me thought) into chops; and like the wound of a murtherd man, did open of it selfe, and began to bleed afresh, (vpon the hearing of this tale) as if the mur∣derer were present. And albeit, I sensibly perceiued in my selfe, that the co∣lour of my face did receiue some alteration, hauing changed its naturall hew, yet did I dissemble it the best that I could; and then, euen then at that very instant, did I whet the razor of my reuenge. Not so much moued thereunto, out of my former hunger, that I had to doe it; as this his present boasting, what fine feats he had done; seeming to take a pride and a glory in doing an vndeserued mischiefe. For I hold it a greater sinne (and doubtlesse so it is) to boast an ill, then to doe it. I did itch all the while this tale was on foot, and knew not which way to looke, nor what to say. At last I said vnto him; I can not call to minde, who this youth should be that did so earnestly long to haue honourable parents; yet are we beholding vnto him, (if haply he be aliue, and haue escaped with life from Ronçesvalles) that of all other noble Houses (where∣of there are so many in the world) he would vouchsafe to make choyce of ours, to honour himselfe there withall. And if such another stripling as he, should chance to come to my house, I would show him all the kindnesse I could, till I had fally inform'd my selfe of the truth, and had assured knowledge, whether he came vnto me out of an euill, or good intent. For there are some Cases, and so me such strange and vnexpected casualties, whereunto mans courses are incident, that euen persons, of great, both worth and valour, escape in that mi∣raculous manner, and are by their misfortunes, brought to that low ebbe, that they are asham'd of them-selues. But this wag, when I had sifted and sounded him throughly, and found out his intent, I would haue dealt with him, as hee

would haue dealt with mee: For Pouertie neither quits Vertue, nor Riches giue it. And in case it should not haue fallen out as my suspitious thoughts had suggested it, and that (for ought I saw) he had no euill intention towards me, nor any purpose to doe me any harm, I should haue fauourd him all that I could, and haue secretly dismist him from me. And in a word, though hee had not beene my kinsman, yet for the good choice that he made, and the good liking he had to our name, preferring it before any other, surely hee should not haue fared the worse for that. And if I had not giuen him any money in his purse, yet would I at least haue vs'd him ciuilly, and not sent him away discontented, who (as it should seeme by him) was not very well pleased with his entertain∣ment. Goe to, goe to, (Cozen) (said the oldman) had you seene him, as I did, you would haue told me another tale then now you do. And for mine own part, (I must confesse vnto you) it did me good at the heart, that I had thus firkt my young Rogue; and (as I told you before) I am very sory that I did not handle him worse, and giue him that condigne punishment, which the heynousnesse of the offence did deserue. For you neuer saw such a tatterd Rascall as he was in all your life; and being thus all to be rent and torne, and not a ragge (sauing your reuerence) to couer his breech, yet this shake-rag, this young impudent Rogue, did not sticke to challenge kindred of vs, and that hee was lineally de∣scended of our house, and in so neare a degree, as you haue heard. And because he brought not his wedding garment with him, but was thus poore and basely clad, we gaue him Iacke Drums entertainment, and shut him out of doores, ha∣uing lapt him first in a blanket, where hee was handsomely canuast; and with this he went his way. Iust about the same time (said I) was I with my mother in Sevill. And it's not yet full three yeere since I left her. I was their onely sonne, nor had my parents any other children saue my selfe. It was euen at my tongues end, and almost out of my mouth ere I was aware, that I had two fa∣thers; but quickly mending that fault, I went on, as followeth: My father left me well to liue, being neither so much, as there-with to be able to spend lauish∣ly; nor yet so little, that with good gouernment, I might not liue handsomely. I cannot boast my selfe to be rich, nor iustly complaine that I am poore. Be∣sides, my mother was alwayes a prudent and prouident woman, well gouern'd, a small waster, and a great huswife.

All they that were there present, were willing to giue me the hearing, and were wondrous glad of it, not well knowing in what Sanctuary they might place me, nor how sufficiently to feast me, nor could they satisfie them-selues in point of good manners, if they did not giue me the right hand, and being two, if they did not put me in the l 1.277 midst betweene them both. Then did I softly say to my selfe; O vanity, whither wilt thou? how doest thou runne af∣ter those that are fortunate, as long as they saile with a faire wind. But when that fayles thee, how in a moment doe thy friends forsake thee, how many changes doest thou find in an instant? And how truly, did I now come to know that they are euermore fauoured and resp•…•…cted, from whom any hope may bee had, that one way or other, they may be benefited by them? and this is the reason why few doe helpe the needy, and all runne after the rich.

We are the children of pride, and rather flatterers then friends. For if wee were true friends indeed, and were charitably minded, wee would haue re∣course to the contrary. Especially, we knowing how acceptable a thing it is in the sight of God, that euery one should be as sensible of his neighbours mise∣ries, as his owne, seeking to doe the same good vnto him, as we would haue to be done vnto our selues, were wee in the same wretched case, as he is. I was now become the idoll of my kindred, so much was I adored by them. I had bought me at an m 1.278 Almoneda, a faire Cupboord of plate, which cost mee almost eight hundred Ducats; and for no other end in the world, but to close vp this my wound the better, I inuited all my kindred together, with some other of

my friends one day to dinner, I made them a great feast, bestow'd a costly ban∣ket vpon them, cheared them all vp, made wonderfull much of them, and gaue them all the kinde entertainment I could possibly deuise. After dinner, wee goe to play, I get the money, but gaue it almost all away in barato to the stan∣ders by. And with this coniuring tricke thus I carried them through the Ayre, I was able to doe what I would doe with them. O that I could haue then whi∣spered them softly in the eare, and haue told them; Know (Gentlemen) that * 1.279 you feed vpon your owne flesh; that the n 1.280 wolfe is in the midst of your flocks; and that hee, whom they make so much of, is hee, whom they so much wronged. O, if they did but know so much, how would they blesse them selues, what a world of crosses would they make in euery corner of their houses, that they might not be troubled with a double labour all the dayes of their life after to doe the same thing againe, a thousand and a thousand times ouer? For now their mattresses were a quilting, and their beds a making, wherein they were like to take but little rest, and fetch more friscalls in the ayre, then when they tost mee in the blanket; so that they shall haue as good cause to thinke vpon mee, as I vpon them; and remember one another the better as long as wee liue. But my paine was already past; and theirs was now comming vpon them. O, if they but knew, that he that is thus with them in sheeps-cloathing, shall ere long breake sodainly in vpon them, like a roaring and raging lyon, how would they looke one vpon another? But it is well as it is; for ere they and I part, we will quit scores, and make them to know me a little better, and what it is to abuse one in that manner as they did me, and to scorne and despise their owne blood. It is a fine stale, or call, to take a bird withall, to haue a good eoram vobis, to spend brauely, to goe gallantly, and to be a Don Iuan de Guzman; but it had beene better for them, that I had beene poore Guzman de Alfarache with his tatterd cloathes, then Don Iuan de Guzman in all his gallantry. They vs'd me with a great deale of courtesie, and gaue me very kinde entertainment, but because I had a queazy stomacke, and was troubled with many qualmes, like a woman that is a breeding, out of that longing desire that I had to be reuenged, nothing would downe with me, or if it did, it would make no stay, but I should pre∣sently puke it vp againe. For in such cases, a mans thoughts are euer of a bad digestion; it being the nature of iniuries, not to be easily concocted. So that I did continually beat my braines about it, plodding with my selfe how I should best effect it; and in this vertuous exercise had I set my wits a working, and all these my noble entertainments tended to no other end then this. For * 1.281 it had beene great folly in me, to haue made such great preparation to no pur∣pose. And vnprofitable is that power, which is not reduced to act. I did but * 1.282 wait for a happy coniuncture, for euery thing hath its o 1.283 quando, its when it should be done. For we cannot execute all things, at all times. Besides there are some houres that are vnlucky, some starres that are crosse, and some planets that are malignant; whose contagious breath we are to flie from, and keepe our selues aloofe from their infectious ayre, lest they chance to worke our destruction.

Thus then did I leysurely stay, looking for a fit occasion, passing those dayes that I remained there, in feasting and banquetting, and all other delightfull pleasures; one vvhile walking downe to the Sea-side, to take the fresh ayre; o∣therwhiles, going to recreate my selfe in their sweet and pleasant Gardens, vvhich are very curiously kept; and now and then visiting the faire Dames of Genoa.

My Kinsmen, vvould faigne haue made mee to marry a Gentlewoman of * 1.284 very good quality, but of a small Dowry: but I durst not venture vpon her, for the reasons before recited: and being besides to steale away from thence very shortly, our egges p 1.285 must haue beene buried in the ashes; yet did I shew

my selfe very thankfull vnto them for these their good vvishes towards mee; neither accepting, nor refusing their offer, that I might goe entertaining and leading them along till I had hit the marke that I aymed at. For, certaine it is, that a man may then easiliest knock out his enemies braines, vvhen his aduer∣sary thinkes there is no such treachery intended against him, and rests most se∣cure. And here vvill wee rest a while.

CHAP. IX.

Guzman de Alfarache robs his Vncle and Kinsmen in Genoa, and imbarkes him selfe in the Gallies that were to goe for Spaine.

AN iniury, neuer ought to bee slighted; nor he sleepe that does it. For Reuenge comes vp from beneath the earth, lurking in the secret corners thereof, * 1.286 lying still in Ambush, watching but a fit time to * 1.287 sally forth; and to doe thee a mischiefe. The a 1.288 hare oftentimes starts out of that bush, where wee did least dreame of his sitting. Let not the rich man trust in his riches; nor the powerfull man in the greatnesse of his power; nor the strong man, in his strength; nor the valiant man, in his courage: for Time alters the state of things, and turnes them topsie-turuy. A little hayre in a Pen, makes a great blot; and a little stone in the way, ouerturnes a great Waine. And when the Offender thinks himselfe most secure; then the offen∣ded finds the better opportunitie. I haue told you here-tofore, that Reuenge * 1.289 is base Cowardise, which springs from a weake womanish minde; to which kinde of Creatures it is commonly competible, and sutes best with them. And albeit I haue mentioned some, nay many vnto you, that haue made their names immortall, by scorning and contemning of it; yet here I shall not omit to tell you a story of a woman, wherein shee well shew'd that she was a woman.

A Gentlewoman, that was young, faire, rich, and of a noble linage, being * 1.290 married to a Gentleman, in euery respect equall vnto her selfe, chanced with∣in a short time after to become a widdow: who discreetly considering the dan∣gers, whereinto by reason of her tender yeares, shee was like to fall, and what speeches the world is wont to cast out, through a too much aptnesse that men haue to whisper and murmur strange tales: for euery man iudgeth so of things as they represent themselues to his imagination; and as hee is instructed by his priuate either fancy or affection; and taking notice of one onely action of this or that man or woman, it is a common practice amongst them, to varry their opinions thereupon, and giue their seuerall censures. And yet not alwayes doe these tongues of theirs speake the truth; nor their iudgements hit vpon the right. She, holding it therefore very inconuenient to put these deare pledges of hers, vpon the tips of mens tongues, and to occasion her honour to come in question; shee resolued (as on the lesser euill) to marry. Two Gentlemen be∣came Suters vnto her, both equall in their pretension; but farre vnequall in their deseruing. The one, to his as much content, as his heart could desire, the match being in a manner concluded; but the other reiected and quite cast off, running a contrary fortune to his Corriuall. And besides, that hee was not of that ranke and quality as the other, hee had likewise some other defects, which might very well excuse a woman of farre meaner indowments, to ad∣mit him to bee her Companion. Now, the former being made sure to this Gentlewoman, and hauing past their promises each to other; so that nothing

was wanting but their going to Church, and there to performe those Ceremo∣nies, and Solemnities in that case required. The second, seeing his hopes dasht, and his sute at an end, and that there was no recouering of her; for that shee was already betrothed to the other: a diuellish toy tooke him sodainly in the head, by peruerse and indirect meanes, to fetch such a leape, as should put him-selfe forward, and cast the other behinde.

Hee resolued with him-selfe to rise vp one day very early in the morning, which he did accordingly; and hauing hid him-selfe in a secret place, where no body could see him, there did he lie close, till such time as the seruants of the house had opened this betrothed Gentlewomans doores; and then present∣ly taking his time, without being heard or perceiued by any, he steps mee in, and there stayes mee a pretty while behind the porch, till such time, as to his seeming, the people were stirring in the streets, and all the rest of the houses and shops were open. And then faigning to come out of the Gentlewomans house, as if he had lyen there all night, he stands strutting him-selfe vpon the midst of the threshold before the doore, with his sword clapt vnder his arme, making show as if he were setting and ordering his Ruffe, and buttoning vp the buttons of his Doublet; so that as many as past by and obserued the man∣ner of his carriage, did verily beleeue, that hee was espoused vnto her, and had now inioyed this Gentlewoman.

When this plot of his fell out thus handsomely, that for his purpose hee could not haue wisht it to haue taken better effect: this businesse was whispe∣red of at first by a few; but afterwards spred it selfe by degrees, and came to be diuulged all ouer the street, till at last the noyse thereof entred into her owne priuate chamber. This tricke had hee played twice ouer. And this businesse was so publikely talked of, and the Gentlewoman growne thereby so infa∣mous, that it was the Table-talke of all the Towne: euery man admiring this her inconstancy, and wondring at her indiscretion, that shee should forgoe her first bargaine, being so aduantageous for her owne good, and make choice of this other, whom she had formerly cast off, and not without cause. But when this newes was thus scattered euery where abroad, and euery mans mouth was full of the manner of it; as that hee was seene to come out halfe naked, all vn∣drest, and his points vntrust: when this (I say) came to the knowledge of her otner Suiter, hee did so risent the wrong she had done him, was so ouerchar∣ged with sorrow, and so inflamed with choller, that albeit he lou'd her before so tenderly, that he desired nothing more then to make her his wife; now did hee cruelly hate her; flying now as fast from her, as before hee sought after her: and did not onely abhorre her: but all other women for her sake: it seem∣ing vnto him; That since shee, whom he so much esteemed, and so dearely lo∣ued, accounting her so good, so chaste, and so reserued a creature, that shee should commit so foule a fact, there was little hope of faith to be found in the rest: and if there were a•…•…y left on whose loyalty men might trust and relye, they were so few, that hee despaired of meeting with that happinesse. Hee weighed their inconstancies, their delayings, their passions, and with them the dangers, the troubles, and the cares wher•…•…into men put them selues. And pas∣sing from these to other discourses which he made with him-selfe, inspired by God, they wrought so vpon him, that hee changed the loue of the creature, into that of •…•…he Creator, resoluing with him-selfe to turne Fryer. Which de∣liberation, hee putting in execution, sodainly entred into a religious Order. This came to the Gentlewomans knowledge, and with it, the rep•…•…rt that •…•…an other, as also the occasion of it, who, wh•…•…n shee saw how things stood, and that it was not possible for her to repaire her honour; nor to take away that foule blo•…•… which the other had laid vpon i•…•…, shee tooke-on like a mad woman: and how can you blame her, that she should thus lose her selfe in her passi∣ons; hauing lost at one blow, her honour, her Husband, her preferment, and

her chiefest happinesse? hopelesse for euer, eyther by this, or any other the like meanes, to receiue any future content, or to returne to the former state wherein shee stood, or to recouer her reputation, which was thus shameful∣ly lost.

Whereupon shee began to bethinke her selfe, how shee might salue this her innocency by some exemplary punishment. And hauing summ'd and cast vp these reckonings with her selfe, shee found her honesty so deeply ingaged, that it was impossible by any other course but this, to cleare it: and that such a treachery as this, could not be quitted, then with one on lesse treacherous, though more cruell. Whereupon, shee did put on so infernall a fury, and went on in that violent rage, that shee busied her thoughts in nothing else, saue how she might bring this businesse about. God bee mercifull vnto vs, and deliuer vs from a wronged womans reuenge; for all of them are commonly such as she, who here presents her-selfe vnto vs.

The first thing that shee resolued on, was to vse her best endeauour to be∣come a Nunne; (and if shee had stopt there, shee had spunne a good thred) and imparting a great part of her troubles to an especiall friend of hers, that was of that Monastery, whither she had determined to goe, after shee had broken her minde vnto her; shee, with great secrecy, effected her desire. Then did shee conuey into the Monastery, all the chierest of her houshold-stuffe, her Iewels, and her monies, annexing thereunto, by publike conueyances and instru∣ments drawne and signed for that vse, the greatest part of her wealth. This being done, she stood daily expecting, that this Gentleman her enemy, should come and renue his suite, and treate with her, touching their mariage; which (according to her expectation) within some few dayes after, hee did: allead∣ging in his excuse, the great loue that hee bare vnto her; for which cause, be∣ing desperate of his hopes, hee vsed those subtill meanes, that he might ob∣taine the end of his wished desires. But now, acknowledging his fault, and that hee had beene the cause of this error, that was voyced abroad, crauing pardon for the same, he was willing to solder vp this flawe, by tendring him∣selfe to bee her husband. Shee, who desired nothing more, then that this his wicked intention should come to light, and that her honor thereby mig•…•…t re∣couer its former splendor, made answer vnto him; That seeing there was now no other meanes left vnto her for the saluing of her credit, nor no better course to bee taken for the recouery of her lost reputation; she did willingly accept of his offer. But told him withall, that shee had made a vow, the perfor∣mance whereof would be accomplished within these two months, or little more, and vntill that time were expired, shee could not giue him that satisfaction which hee desired. But, if hee would bee pleased to haue the patience to stay till then, hee should obtaine his suite. But, if hee were so eagerly bent vpon the businesse, that impatient of so long an intermission of time, he longed to come sooner to this his desired end, shee would not stop him in this his iour∣ney; but would haue the businesse to be carryed with all possible secrecy, till the terme of the aforesaid two moneths should be fully accomplished; and then afterwards shee did not care (leauing that to his discretion) how soone this their mariage were manifested to the world.

The Gentleman accepted of the condition, holding himselfe (therein) the happiest man in the world. And hauing prouided all that was fitting and necessary for a businesse of this nature, they were secretly contracted together, by vertue whereof, they were espoused each to other. They continued toge∣ther on these termes some few dayes, hee entertaining himselfe with that assu∣red hope which hee had of his absolute inioying of her, and she being no lesse contented then hee, with the wished end that shee had to worke her re∣uenge.

One night, after they had supt, her husband went to bed, shee enters in∣to

the chamber, and setting her selfe downe neare vnto the bed-side, feigning to be busying her fingers about some trifling worke or other, (as women are neuer without a thousand such idle toyes) she waited by him, till he was falne asleepe, and when she saw that the soundnesse of his first sleepe had seazed for∣cibly vpon him, she softly puts her hand into the sleeue of her gowne, and ta∣king out a keene cutting knife, as sharpe as any raysour, to that first sleepe of his, she added the last minute of his life; for in an instant she had cut his throat, and left him dead in the bed, wallowing in his owne blood. Afterwards, tel∣ling the people of the house, that her husband had had a very bad night of it, and that none should goe in for feare of waking him, till he himselfe were wil∣ling to call to them, or that her selfe should returne from Masse; shee shut the doore after her, and hy'd her as fast as she could, to the Monastery, where shee presently receiued the habit and was made a Nunne, after that shee had thus washt away her infainy, with his blood, who had bespotted it, giuing a noto∣rious token of her honesty, and a terrible demonstration of her cruelty.

I will likewise tell you (because it suteth well to this purpose) that which * 1.291 Fuctillos said; a foole that went vp and downe Alcala de Henares; one whom I afterwards very well knew. This foole, a dogge had bit by the legge, which hurt, though he was afterwards well healed of it, yet his heart was not at quiet: for he had still a spight to that dogge. Whom hee finding one day by chance lying all along before his doore, sleeping in the Sunne, he went to a certaine place neere vnto the Church of Santa Maria, and taking vp a great stone, as much as he could lift with both his hands, he came softly stealing towards the dogge, without being perceiued by him, and lifting it vp as high as euer hee could each, let it fall iust vpon the head of him. The poore Curre, hauing re∣ceiued this cruell blow, being in extreame torment, and neere vnto his death, began to make a most pittifull howling, and fell (his last pangs being vpon him) a bounding in the ayre. Fuctillos the foole, seeing in what case he was, said vnto him; Doe you heare brother, doe you heare? b 1.292 Quien enemigos tiene, no duerma: He does ill to sleepe that has an enemy. I remember I told you once before; That ill, is alwaies ill; But of all ils, I hold reuenge to be the worst: For a * 1.293 reuengefull heart knowes not how to be mercifull. And he that shall not shew mercy, let him not looke for mercy, neither from God, nor man. For euery man shall be meted with the same measure that he meteth vnto others. And in the * 1.294 same balance that thou weighest thy neighbour, in the same shalt thou bee * 1.295 weighed thy selfe. This, thou canst not deny, but I must haue thee also to con∣fesse, That they are in an error, who knowing mens euill inclination, will yet be so simple, as to trust them; especially those, whom we haue formerly iniured; for few or none of your reconciled friend, but proue rotten at the heart; and how faire a show soeuer they make, not one of them of a thousand that is sound and good. He doth offer a pleasing sacrifice vnto God, who for Gods sake onely, re∣mitteth the wrongs that he hath receiued. Few miracles haue we seene in this case; Only I was an eye-witnesse of one my selfe in Florence, which happened without the wals of the City, in the Church of San Miniato, that stands within the Castle. Which because it is but a short one, and worthy your memorie, I wil briefly relate it vnto you. A Gentleman of Florence, called Captaine Giouanni * 1.296 Gualberto, the son of a noble Knight, that was a Titulado, going to Florence with his Company, well armed, & on horse-back, he met vpon the way with a mortal enemy of his, who had kild his brother; who seeing the danger wherin he was, giuing him-selfe for a lost man, (for that he knew not how to escape him) hum∣bled him-selfe at his feet, and crossing his brest with his arms, besought his par∣don, and that for Iesus Christs sake, that was crucified, hee would be pleased to spare him his life. Giouanni Gualberto, had these words in that veneration, that pricked with a charitable compunction, taking pitty of him, hee willingly par∣doned this his enemie. And taking him along with him, he made him to goe

backe againe with him to Florence, and brought him to San Miniatos Church, to offer thankes vnto God. And kneeling downe before a Crucifex, which was a very liuely peece, Giouanni Gualberto, kneeling also on his knees, desired of God, That he would so forgiue him his trespasses, as he did freely forgiue this his enemy that had trespassed against him, in killing his brother. Which words were no sooner vttered by him, but Christ bowed his head vnto him, Giouanni Gualberto, humbly acknowledging this great grace and fauour there showne vnto him in the presence of all those that were there, presently entred into a re∣ligious Order, in which holy profession, he continued to his dying day. This image of Christ stands to this day, with his head bowing it selfe downe, euen in the selfe same manner as it stood then: and is there reuerenced as a great re∣licke, not onely by the Florentines, but all other Catholickes.

And now (laying Miracles aside) let mee truly tell you, That when a man does pardon his enemie, but takes not this for his ground, it leaues some em∣bers * 1.297 behinde, some quicke coales couered ouer with a few ashes, which be∣ing stir'd neuer so little, breakes forth againe, inflaming the soule, and soliciting it to reuenge. And howbeit outwardly this fire seeme to bee dead; yet God keepe vs from this still water; for many a time and oft, this fire is onely sprink∣led ouer with a little Court-holy-water, which is as good as nothing; or sleight∣ly couer'd ouer with the ashes of a false forgiuenesse. But if you shall but offer to blow it with Occasions bellowes, though neuer so little, it soone discouers it selfe, the coales kindle by and by, and the flames of their hatred breake forth afresh, and to as deepe a reuenge, as if there had neuer beene any atonement betweene them. And this I am able to iustifie vnto you, as hauing made expe∣rience thereof my selfe: For I was euer so mightily pricked on to reuenge, as if (like a beast) the spurres thereof lay still gagging at my sides. And well may I say beast, for he is no lesse, that is thus beastly-minded. I had still before mine eyes, that dis-ioynting and ratling of my bones, when like the winnow∣ing of wheat in a fanne, they tost me vp on high, and no sooner downe, but hoist me vp againe, euery bone of mee seeming to gingle like so many bels. What with this, and that delight and pleasure that they tooke in the recoun∣ting of the iest, and the euill intent wherewithall they did it, besides their tel∣ling of me, that nothing did so much grieue them, as that they had not vs'd me worse, I could not choose but beare it in minde, and say to my selfe; O ye misbegotten rascals, ye villaines, ye enemies to goodnesse, ye dogges: I came to your gates, being poore and needy, and what a fine refreshing did yee giue me, that I might the better goe forward on my iourney! This their course vsage, had stir'd vp such store of choller in mee, that I did now desire nothing more, then to cry quittance with all those that had a hand in this conspiracy. And not so much to be reuenged of them, as that old dog-bolt, who was the principall plotter, and actor, both of it, and my hurt.

The time passed on, and with it I gained more friends, wedging them clo∣ser and closer daily vnto me, I knowing them, and they mee. The proposed mariage was hotly pursued by them, they all very earn•…•…stly desiring to haue me naturalized amongst them. I visited them, and they me: my friends resor∣ted to my lodging, and I to theirs. Now, as if I had beene a towne-borne child, I had free accesse in all parts of the City, I went and plaid amongst them at their Ordinaries, and publike houses of gaming; and they likewise would come and meete at my lodging; sometimes losing, and sometimes getting, till one night amongst the rest, the Cards fell out so luckily, and shew'd them∣selues so fauourable vnto me, that I carried home with mee at one clap aboue seuen thousand Royals: where-with my Gentlemen were so nettled, that the * 1.298 next night after, they were very desirous to play greater game. I misliked not the motion; for the time of my reckning was now neare at hand, if not past; my nine d 1.299 monthes, (as the common saying is) that I had gone with child,

looking to be brought a-bed of this birth, begotten of mine owne braine, were now fully expired; and euery moment I expected a happy houre. For Captaine Favelo had already told me, that the Galleys were now ready, and that he was fully perswaded, they would very sho•…•…tly goe for Spaine. This made me bestirre my stumpes, and to get all things ready to goe aboord, con∣ce•…•…uing they were now e 1.300 hoysing sayle, fitting their oares, and ready to launch, being resolued, whither-soeuer they went, to goe along with them; yet I durst not make it knowne, till going out of the hauen, they were to put forth to Sea. I accepted that night their challenge, and continued play with them, but to no other end in the world, b•…•…t to entertaine the time, that I might afterwards be the better prouided, to giue them a wipe for a farewell, and to tickle them with the latter arrow, or (as they vse to doe in Portugall) darles de pancada.

That night I lost, but no more then I was willing; for now I did employ all my skill, to bring my purpose to passe. I did float vp and downe with a side winde, and got to winde-ward of them, still bestowing barato (howsoeuer the world went) vpon my old friend the Captaine; because I knew he was to re∣turne it backe againe in the end, to my greater aduantag•…•…. Some few dayes after, I perceiu'd my Captaine grew some-what sad; I aske him what might be the cause of this his melancholy, and that he was not so merry, as he was wont to be: He told me, it was onely the sorrow, that he had conceiued, that he and I, ere long must part; for that some ten dayes hence the Galleys were without faile to goe away, by expresse order giuen for their departure.

His words were pearles; and this language of his, as a voyce from heauen, as if I had heard it once more say vnto me; Open this C•…•…binet, vnlocke that chest, and pull out that other Cat by the eares, and carry away with thee, what thou list. So that now, I thought this businesse was in a manner quite ended. And so taking my Captaine aside, when I saw that he and I were all alone, I said vnto him; Sir, you haue show'd your selfe such a friend vnto me, and I doe so highly esteeme of your loue and friendship, that I know not how either to indear•…•…, or require it. There is offe•…•…ed now vnto me by occasion of this your voyage, an absolute remedie to all my desires, and a fit opportunitie to effect, what I haue long since intended; and without your helping hand, wherein it chiefly consist•…•…, I vtterly despaire of obtayning my purpose. And if I haue for-borne till now to giue you an account thereof (which I ought to haue done, in regard of that true affection, and faithfull friendship, that is betweene vs) it was because I was loth, out of my loue vnto you, to cause any disquietnesse in you, which the acquainting you therewith, must needs bring with it. I would haue you therefore to vnderstand, that I came not hither, either out of any de∣sire to see this Citie, nor for that kinde entertainments sake, or any other cour∣te•…•…e, that I haue here receiued; but onely for to dis-oblige my selfe, and to re∣uenge a certaine wrong, which my father being an elderly man, receiued at the hands of a young Spaniard, that resideth herein this Citie: who was forced thereupon to forsake his Country, as being ashamed of the affront that was done him. And not being able (in regard he was an old man) to right himselfe as he should, he held it his best course, to lessen it by his long absence; the griefe whereof continued with him to his dying day. And he that had no re∣spect vnto those re•…•…erend hayres of my aged father, cannot iustly complaine of me, if being his sonne, I lose all respect towards him in the working of my reuenge. And because it may so fall out, that after I haue satisfied my desire, that his friends, either by the gr•…•… fauour they shall finde in this place, or by the strength of their purse, which is no lesse preualent, shall goe about to doe me any iniurie, that you afford me your b•…•…st •…•…nce, by which good furthe∣rance onely of yours, w•…•…thout any perill to your owne person, you may by your secrecy secure me, and bring me fairely off. Which friendly office sha•…•…l binde me so fast vnto you, that (during life) I shall acknowledge my selfe to be your

slaue. For a sonne hath no more honour, then what he inherits from his father: And if my father had none to leaue me, this trayterous enemie of his, hauing taken it from him, I likewise liue without it, and must recouer it my selfe by these hands of mine, and by mine owne proper industry. Which if my kinsmen haue not sought to repayre, it was, for that they were not either willing to ha∣zard them-selues, or their fortunes; or for that after my fathers absence, all was buryed, and not so much as a word spoken thereof, whereby the remembrance of the wrong might haue beene reuiued. Holding it the lesser inconuenience of the two, to let it sleepe thus quietly as it did, then by awaking it, to giue oc∣casion to the people to publish this his shame the more.

Favelo all this while hearkned very attentiuely to euery word that I said, and would that I should haue remitted this businesse vnto him, to the end that hee might make himselfe a party in this reuenge, as became a true friend; not doub∣ting but that he should giue me good satisfaction therein, and performe it as well as I my selfe could wish. And albeit he was very earnest with me, vsing many violent intreaties, that he might take this burthen wholly vpon him, yet notwithstanding could he not bring me to giue way vnto it; Telling him, that it was neither iust, nor fitting; That the iniurie being mine, the reuenge should be anothers. And that onely for this end, I was come out of my natiue countrey of Spaine, with a resolution neuer to returne thither againe, till that I my selfe had giuen my enemie his payment, and in that coyne, that he should know from whom, and wherefore he receiu'd it. Adding withall, that he should doe me a great deale of wrong, to thinke that I wanted either strength or cou∣rage to put my selfe vpon such a businesse as this is, considering how neerely it concernes me, and how it toucheth my soule to the very quicke. When hee heard me say so (seeing me thus peremptorily bent) he grew so quiet, that he would presse that point no farther; and though he made no reply thereunto, yet he told me; If I haue any thing of worth in me, if I can doe any thing, if my whole estate, life, and honour, may import your seruice, I lay them downe at your feet, they are wholly yours to be disposed of. And if, for feare of the worst (because a man knowes not what may happen in such a case) you will (for to make surer worke) that I and my souldiers shall assist you, or (at least) giue vs leaue to stand at a gaze, to see how the world goes with you, command vs so fa•…•…re forth as you please; your will shall be ours; and we will not be wanting to the vttermost of our power, to afford you our best ayde, and to giue you all the content we can. And I will promise you vpon mine honest word, and there∣fore put that to my account, that if you once but set your foot within the Gal∣ley, all Italy (would they neuer so faine) shall not be able to fetch you thence, and would rather runne all dangers my selfe, though neuer so great, then that you should suffer the least.

Noble Captaine (said I) I beleeue you both in this, and the rest, and am very confident that you professe no more, then what your true heart vnto me, doth sincerely suggest. But I thinke, there needeth not so much water to driue this mill. First, because my enemie rests secure, and suspects not the reuenge that I shall take of him: And secondly, for that my selfe and Sayavedra, shall be able well enough to goe through with that which I pretend. Which being ac∣complished, my desire is, the businesse may be so carryed, that when his friends would right themselues vpon me, and should haply chance to pursue me, or make some diligent search after me, they might by your fauour, misse of their purp•…•…se, and come too late to lay hold vpon me. That which presses, and im∣ports me most, and which I require at your hands, is; That I may know the set day, when the Galleys are to depart, and when you meane to weigh auchor, that I may not lose either time, or occasion. He promised me, I should: And so we were agreed in the end, that by little and little, and that very secretly, I should by Sayavedra conuay my trunkes, and my cloathes aboord the Galley, to

the end that I might not deferre the doing thereof to the very last push, and haue nothing else to busie my selfe about, but onely my imbarking.

I cannot tell you, how much Favelo ioyed, nor expresse vnto you the great content he tooke, when he knew that he should haue mee along with him; whereupon, he made very good prouision of diuers delicacies to entertaine me withall, as if I had beene Admirall of the Galleys. I call'd my seruant vnto me, and told him, what had past betwixt me and Captaine Favelo, and that it was * 1.301 now time to f 1.302 tucke vp our sleeues to our elbowes, because we had much to knead, and a great deale of dowe to mould, to make tarts: and therefore we must roundly set our selues to worke. I had scarce ended my discourse with him, but that he was ready for ioy to leape out of his skin, he was all a gogg with content, the tindar had now taken fire, the Deere was rouz'd, and he was set so hot on following the game, that there was no holding of him backe. Then presently did we sit in councell concerning the manner of the reuenge, and hauing well aduised with my selfe, I said thus vnto him: The best, the profitablest, and the least dangerous to our selues, will consist in matter of mo∣ney. This is that which I desire (said Sayavedra) this chase will be better then fifteene, if we looke well to our play. Besides, the wounds that are giuen vs on the bodie, are quickly cured; but those that light vpon our purse, are long a healing, and paine vs a great while after, if not all the dayes of our life.

Goe to then (said I) that we may fall the more handsomly to worke, the first * 1.303 thing that is to be done, is to buy foure trunkes, two of which thou shalt put in that part of the Galley, which Favelo shall appoint for them. And the other two, thou shalt fill with stones, and letting no man know what there is in them, thou shalt cunningly and vn-espyde, secretly conuay to my lodging, and put them in my chamber. These stones shalt thou wrap vp close in some old rags, that where-soeuer they be, or whither-soeuer they shall be carried, and tumbled to and fro, they may not rattle, nor make any noyse; charging him to haue a great care, that he leaue not any one empty place, but with some trash or other cramme them as close as he can for his life. As also to see, that they be not hea∣uier, then he, in his discretion, shall thinke it fitting, making each of them to weigh some six arrobas a peece, which will come to about a hundred and a halfe good weight. I also acquainted him with euery particular thing, that he was to doe, leauing him well informed with those instructions that I had giuen him.

When these wheeles were thus set a going, I got me to Don Beltran's house, that good old man, my Vnckle, and being in conuersation with him, I began to fall into talke, how fearefull I was to goe abroad a-nights, in regard of the trunkes that I had in my lodging, two of them especially being worth the loo∣king to, for that they were full of plate, iewels of good value, and good store of crownes, and (to say the truth) all the litle wealth that I had. This is your owne fault, Cozen, said he vnto me; and if any harme come vnto you, blame no bo∣die but your selfe. For my house might very well (had it pleas'd you to accept of it) haue excused both your lodging, and your feare. For albeit, that where you are be the best in all this Towne; yet haue you not any Inne, (though you shall trauaile all the world ouer) where you shall finde that good∣nesse and that honestie, as to keepe any thing there in safetie. You (Cozen) are but a young man, and know not the world as I doe; I am an old Lad, and haue * 1.304 a great deale of experience of these things, and therefore let me aduise you, that you neuer trust your trunkes, but with a sure and strong locke; and when you are iourneying vpon the way, carry along with you in your pocket, or your port-manteau, some good pad-locke, to fasten to the staple of the chamber doore, where you lodge. For either your Hoste, or his wife, or his children, or his seruants, haue two or three keyes to all the chambers, and you shall no soo∣ner turne your backe, but in the twinckling of an eye, you shall lose all that

you left there within, and hardly recouer it againe. And therefore be sure, to make all sure. For if you shall call mine Hoste, or any of his in question, and seeke to recouer your owne by Law, they will answer to your sure, and after a great deale of cost and trouble, they will alleage for themselues, that either you carryed it away your selfe, or that you brought no such thing thither, or at least, that they knew of no such thing, because you had not, when you came in, con∣signed it vnto them, and committed it to their charge; so that what was thine * 1.305 before, they will by this meanes make it their owne. Into an Inne, g 1.306 bring no∣thing in; for it is no sooner in, then lost, vnlesse you looke narrowly vnto it. But being a young Gallant, as you are, though it please you not, out of your Iouiall disposition, and the loue to good companie, to take this for your house, which is most freely yours, yet could I wish you to fetch away your trunkes from thence, and to bring them hither, and not to leaue any more plate, or sil∣uer there, then what shall serue for your necessarie vse. For here in my Eseri∣torio, all shall be kept safe for you, so that you shall not need to be afraid thereof, as long as it remaines here in my house. I thank't him as much, as if my trunks had beene worth a Million, and so I thinke he did conceiue as much, or little lesse. As well in regard that he had seene some of my vessels of siluer, as like∣wise my chaine, my gold, and other things, that I had brought thither with me: As also, for that I seem'd to be so desirous to haue them secured in some place of safetie.

From this talke, we fell into discourse touching my mariage: He telling me, * 1.307 that I was now of fit yeeres for a wife, and that the longer I staid without, if I had a purpose to settle my selfe and my estate, I did but lose so much time; for that your elder mariages, were but a leauing of a mans children to be fa∣therlesse, and to become poore miserable Orphanes. And therefore, if I were no•…•… minded to be a Church-man, and to admit my selfe into some one religious Order or other, it were better for me to marry out of hand, as well in respect of mine owne comfort, as the husbanding of my estate. For seruants, th•…•…ugh they be neuer so faithfull, doe not for the most part want conduit-pipes, to con∣uey away thy wealth, scattering it abro•…•…d •…•…ike water, vpon women, gaming, feast•…•…ng, •…•…xcesse in apparell, and diuers other things, who seeing them-selues 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and put to their shifts, to maintaine these their idle expences, rob th•…•…ir Masters of all that they haue, and afterwards flie the Country. He laid before me the manifold inconueniences of a single life, and on the n•…•…ke of that, he comes vpon me, making a large relation vnto me of the good parts of this Gentle-woman, whom he wisht me vnto. Who (as I vnderstood) was his kinswoman by the mother-side, and more nobly, then richly descended. But that defect was supplied by her beauty. I should haue had likewise with her, but Ho-there, (as I afterwards came to discouer the mysterie) a young daugh∣ter, which shee had by a mischance, begotten on her by a young Citizen of Genoa, who had promised her mariage, but afterwards (cozen ng the poore wen•…•…h) married with another. He told me besides, that shee had a mother, that was a very wealthy woman, and one that would be a great stay and helpe vnto me, especially in the gouernment of my house, and the bringing vp of those children, that God should blesse me withall. And that I should finde her no lesse louing vnto me, then if shee were mine owne naturall mother. I did set a good face on the matter, and seemed to like wondrous well of all that which hee had said vnto mee; Telling him, that what-soeuer came from him, could not but be good; and that his counsell should be a guide to my actions, without farther consultation from my selfe, as conueniencie should •…•…ffer it selfe. But that I might not lose a certaine Benefice, that wa•…•… bestowed vpon me, for the making sure of that, I must necessarily re∣signe it to a Cozen-Germane of mine, my mothers-sisters-sonne, who liues in Sevill. I threw out this baite vnto him, to nibble vpon, where-with

I entertain'd him for that time, hee seeming well contented with my faire answer.

Whilest we were earnestly talking of this businesse, in comes Sayavedra vnto me, and rounding me in the eare, made show as if he had deliuer'd me a very long message. I then (seeing my time, speaking out aloud) said vnto him; And what answer did you make him? And he answering me in the same key, replyde; What answer would you haue me make him Sir, but that it should be done. Marry, beshrew your fingers for it, (said I) you did not well, in say∣ing so. Doest not thou know, that I am not now in Rome, nor Sevill; doest thou not see how rash and inconsiderate thou hast beene, in promising that for me, which I cannot performe? Goe, carry him the great chaine, giue it him, and tell him, that this is all that I haue, and that I can doe no more then I can doe: Excuse me vnto him, and signifie withall, that I haue straind my selfe as farre for him, as my abilitie can reach. You say well Sir (replyde Sayavedra) but how a Gods name, shall I be able to lugg along by my side such a huge chaine as this, that weighs seuen hundred crownes in good gold? I thinke I had need hyre a porter to helpe me. I presently made answer; No more words; Doe as I bid you. Get you to some Gold-smiths shop or other, and take the chaine along with you, and make choyce of some Iewell there, or what you shall thinke fit will serue the turne, and leaue the chaine there, or some other pawne, which shall be worth more then what you haue of him, and pay him interest for the lone of it: and this, I take it, will be the better course. And if the pawne fall out too short, make it out in Crownes vnto him. So shalt thou dis-ingage thy selfe of the folly, whereinto thou hast runne: For I know no other remedie but this.

My Vnckle, who listned to all that I had said; What pawnes (said he) will you giue him, or for what? To whom I made answer; Sir, he that hath foolish seruants, must whether he will or no incurre many inconueniences, falling still into a hundred thousand errours, and as many mischiefes, and sleepe-breaking cares. There is a Gentlewoman here of Castile, that is treating a mariage with a Gentleman of her owne Country, they are both well knowne vnto me, and of my especiall acquaintance, and to whom I owe some beholdingnesse. They haue requested me, that I would furnish them with apparell and iewels for their wedding; which is now so neere at hand, that I cannot giue them that satisfaction, that I would. You see Sir, what tree they trust vnto, and what shifts I am driuen to, to cumply with them. And the griefe of it is, that this block-head my man, had not the wit to excuse me, being he knew, how hardly I could doe them this kindnesse. And I am halfe iealous, that he out of his owne kinde heart inuited them thereunto, and without making mee priuie vnto it, hath promised them my best furtherance. For it cannot sinke into my head, that a woman of iudgement, should of her selfe request such a courtesie as this. And if it be his owne act, why should not he make it good without me? But Sirrah (said I to my man) seeing it is as it is, and it cannot now be otherwise, goe wait vpon her, and doe as shee shall direct you.

The old man, seeing me so much moued, and that I seemed to be much of∣fended with my man, for his indiscretion, said vnto me; Cozen, let not this trouble you, it is not a thing worth the speaking of, and therefore let it not dis∣quiet you: you are come into a place, where you cannot want friends for so small a matter as this. I know that very well Sir, (said I) and that my noble kinsmen here, will doe me any friendly office that lies in their power, and that as long as they haue it, I cannot lacke. But because amongst all our kindred, I know not any of those that are married, that can furnish me with such things as shee requireth for this solemnity, I dare not intreat them in a matter so troublesome as this cannot choose but be vnto them. And yet on the other side, being so earnestly requested to supply this Gentle-womans occasions, the

very demanding of such a courtesie, is a kind of commanding of it, and obli∣geth me (as I am a Gentleman) to make the best shift I can for her, and to trie all my friends, rather then faile her now at her need. And yet I know well enough, that Iewels are not euery where to be met withall, which in publike assemblies, and such sole•…•…ne acts, as these are, can shew their faces without blushing. Cozen (said he) no more, it is enough; breake not your sleepe for this, nor take you any farther care; For I, for my part, and other your kinsmen, on theirs, will trie amongst vs, what we can doe, and doubt not but wee shall fit her in that reasonable and conuenient manner, as shall serue her turne, and salue your credit. Nay (Cozen) I will not haue you sit out for a little, if I can helpe it. And as for your Trunkes, you may send them hither when you please. I kist his hands for this his double kindnesse, returning him both for the one and the other, such condigne thankes, as either my wit could inuent, or my words expresse, acknowledging the great and extraordinary fauour that herein he should doe me: and so taking my leaue of him, as soone as euer I came home to my lodging, I tooke order, that the Trunkes, (each of them hauing three keyes a peece, being well and surely lockt, and strongly plated with yron,) should out of hand be carried thither without any more adoe.

My Vnkle, when he saw Sayavadra enter his house, and the Porters at the heeles of him, so heauy laden, that they were scarce able to creepe along with them, hauing well considered the strength of the locks and barres about them, and the distrust that I had of mine Hoast, together with the weight and heaft of them, he did certainly assure himselfe, t•…•…at they were full of treasure. Where∣upon he asked Sayavedra what was within those Trunkes, that th•…•…y weighed so heauy? Whereunto he answered; Sir, though my master hath many things in them of great value, yet that which is worth more then all the rest, is a par∣cell of stones, which he hath gathered together from all parts of Italy, the choi∣sest he could light vpon, wheresoeuer hee came, but for whom they are, or whither he will carry them, I know not. The old man arched vp his eie-brows, and wiped his eyes, wondring to see such great store of wealth, and putting them with his owne hands in safe custody, vnder the keeping (as they say) of * 1.308 seuen keyes, the Trunkes remained with him, and Sayavedra returned home. And there (like Pigeons, when they court and woo one another, and haue done billing, and murmured our their amarous passions) we two louing companions fell likewise a crookling, and gathering straw, for to build our nest. Wee spent all that night in deuising new plots, and in plotting new deuices, how wee might fetch off another kinsman of mine, that was young, rich, and of great credit amongst them, resoluing to goe home to his house, and there to pitch another net for him, to the end that whilst others should complaine of the harme I had done them, he should not stand by and laugh, whilst others wept, and applaud his wit, that he escaped my fingers. And therefore I was minded to inuest him likewise with this new order of a second St. Iago. And so I did: For the Sunne was scarce vp, and got out of his bed, when Sayavedra taking * 1.309 with him the two chaines, in those two boxes that were so like one another, gilded equally on euery side, neatly closed with your Dutch cla•…•…pes, with alike vises, or springs, that would shut of them selues, bearing them closely vnder his cloake, home we came vnto him; where we found him newly vp, & making him-selfe ready. But not thinking that a fit time, I was willing to haue defer'd my seeing of him, ti•…•…l after dinner. But when it was told him that I was there, he tooke it ill, and seemed some what ashamed withall, accusing me of strange∣nesse, that I would be so dainty with him, as to make scruple of comming vp vnto him, as soone as I came within the house. I told him I did not doe it out of any nicenesse, but that I was loath to disquiet him, for that I vnderstood he was taking his rest. With these, and the like complements, we past the time a while, questioning each other of our healths, and discoursing of some things

(whilst he was dressing and fitting his cloathes) about the Citie, at last hee brought me downe into a closet, or pretty little counting-house, that hee had beneath stayres, and sitting downe, after a short pausing, hee demanded of me, what wind had blowne me thither so early? Sir (said I) none, saue onely that I may giue a good morrow to the day, to the end, that it may thriue the better with me: For the night hath not beene my friend.

The businesse Sir, that I come vnto you about, is to intreat you, that if you haue any seruant of yours in the house, that is an honest discreete fellow, that you would be pleased to call him hither. Which I had no sooner said, but hee presently rings me a bell, the sound whereof was no sooner heard, but two or three came hastily running in. And hauing beckned to one amongst the rest, to come vnto him; he said vnto him; here is my seruant Steffanello, who shall doe what-soeuer you shall be pleased to command him. That then (quoth I) which I shall intreat at his hands, is, That he will take the paines, to goe along with my seruant Sayavedra to some Gold-smith, to take the aloy, weight, and value of a chaine that I haue here. Sayavedra thereupon presently deliuered me the little boxe, wherein was that which I had caused to be made of pure gold; and taking it out, I snew'd it vnto him; my kinsman was much pleased with the sight thereof, and was neuer weary with locking vpon it, so handsome a one it was, so beautifull, so massie, and of that extraordinary curious work∣manship. Insomuch, that it seemed vnto him, that he had neuer seene the like; for it was all of dainty delicate fine linkes, smoothly polished, without any stones, or inammelling at all. When he had taken his fill in viewing of it, I re∣turn'd it backe againe to my seruant, and they two went together to dispatch this businesse, whilst we in the meane while continued talking sometimes of one thing, sometimes another, the better to passe the time. A little while after, they both came backe againe, bringing with them a little scrole of paper, with the Gold-smiths hand to it, wherein it was there set downe, That the chaine of gold, was in finenesse two and twenty Carats, and that it was (according to its weight) worth sixe hundred and three and fifty Spanish Crownes, and some∣what more. Then I called to Sayavedra, and willed him to giue it mee, who deliuered mee the counterfaite one, first opening the boxe wherein it lay, where once more taking it forth, we fell afresh to looking vpon it. And putting it anon after into its boxe, which I still kept open, I said vnto him; Sir, that which I am farther to intreat at your hand, is that which followeth; Some few nights since, I haue beene bitten at play by some Gentlemen of this Citie, but they them-selues worse; for that I haue gotten of them a matter of fiue thou∣sand Royals: they haue challenged me to play greater game, and I am very willing to follow my good fortune, while it lasts, and to make triall of my good lucke; and it may be, that I may venture little, and get much. But because all kind of gaming doth wholly in a manner consist in the handsome carriage of the businesse, and that we that are gamesters, may as well lose as winne, I would not find my selfe so limited and stinted in play, that if I should chance to lose, and runne out of my moneys, that I should not be able to come againe vpon them with fresh supplies, to recouer what I lost, and (if lucke serue) to get vpon them. And albeit (I thanke God) I lacke no money, hauing at home in my Vnkles house some fiue thousand Crownes, yet I may not meddle with them, for as soone as certaine Letters shall come hither to my hands, which I daily expect from Sevill, I cannot, no not for an houre, prolong either their payment, or mine owne departure to Rome, for the setling of a good Benefice either vpon my selfe, or a Cozen-germane of mine, as it shall stand best with my Vnkles liking, submitting my selfe to his direction, who may dispose of me as he in his discretion shall thinke fit; so that it is neither iust nor conuenient, that I should once breake, or offer but to touch that summe, lest I might then want it, when I had most occasion to vse it; which I may so much the rather

forbeare to doe, because (if need be) I can make vse of my Iewels, and my Plate, which like a dead commodity lie by me, and are good for nothing, but to lay to pawne at a dead lift; and yet for all this, vnlesse some vrgent occasion, or extreame want, should force me thereunto, I should be very loath to part with them, much lesse to put them away to losse, as many too often doe. You haue here this chaine, you haue seene and view'd it, and you know what it is worth, all that I shall now desire of you, is that with all secresie (for I would not willingly incurre the censure of an vnthrift, nor if men should talke of it, be forced to giue them an account of such trifling toyes as these) you would be pleased to furnish me with sixe hundred Crownes vpon this Chaine, paying interest for that short tearme that I shall vse them; assuring your selfe, that whe∣ther I winne or lose, you shall not fayle to be paid at your due time. Wherein, if I should chance to faile you, you may pay your selfe out of the chaine, for which end I shall leaue it with you, that howsoeuer the world goe, you may be a gainer, though I a loser. I likewise told him, how vpon the like occasion I had once pawned a certaine piece of new Plate, richly gilt, but he that had it of me, had vs'd it in that ill manner, that when he returned it vnto mee, it was not fit to be serued in at any honest mans boord, so that I was forced to sell it, hauing not one penny allowed me for the fashion. And therefore for the auoi∣ding of such another losse, I intreated him to doe me the fauour, that the chaine might remaine still in his owne hands, without being posted ouer from one to another.

Hee made show that hee did not take it halfe well at my hands, that for so small a courtesie as this, I should offer him a pawne. But I clapping downe the couer of the boxe, shut it sodainly too, and so consign'd it ouer vnto him, for∣cing it into his hand; vowing and protesting, that I would by no meanes re∣ceiue this kindnesse from him, if he refused to accept of the chaine. For, besides that I did not vse to weare it oft, because it was too massie and heauy for mee, he should doe me a courtesie to keepe it for me; for as long as it was with him, I was sure it would be both safe and well vsed. Adding further withall, That being we are all mortall, and that many things might occurre vnto me, being a stranger, it was fit and conuenient, that hee should therein satisfie my desire. Vpon these words, and the earnest instance that I made with him, he accepted of it in the end, and promised me, that the first thing that he would doe, should (as soone as hee put his foote out of doores) bee his procuring of these mo∣neyes for me: wherein he was as good as his word. For the very same day, whilest I was sitting at dinner, in comes Steffanello with the sixe hundred Crownes. I thankt him for his paines, and intreated him to recommend my seruice to his master; he staid not with me scarce a Pater-noster while, & was but euen new gone, but presently in comes his master, and makes directly towards my lodging. Which sodaine approach of his did so trouble me, that I had not one drop of blood in all my whole body, nor could the best Barber of them all, haue found any such thing in my veines. Here I lost my stirrops, and knew not what to doe. For hauing but then, euen newly then receiued the Crownes, and the master following so close at the seruants heeles, I did vndoubtedly beleeue, that they had opened the boxe, and had found out the false chaine, and that he had made this haste, to hinder his man from deliuering the money vnto me. But this doubt was soone resolued, and I was quickly rid of this feare, for he came towards me with a chearfull countenance, making many of∣fers of his loue and seruice vnto mee, and that if I had occasion to vse him in any thing else, I would be pleased to command him; for whatsoeuer hee had, it was wholly at my deuotion: And that those moneys hee had borrowed of a friend of his vpon interest, but that it would come to a matter of nothing in the reckning. Then said I to my selfe, (considering more the future, then the time present) I beleeue this nothing will be some-thing to you in the end; and how

light you make of it, will light heauilier vpon you; then you are aware. But burying my thoughts within my owne bosome, I told him, that was not much materiall, for the pawne was worth more then the vse of the money could come to.

But he had not long staid a talking vvith me, vvhen loe, vvhilest hee vvas there with me, my Gentlemen gamesters enter the roome, and calling to Saya∣vedra for cards, there was a well-ordered battaile begun betweene vs. My kins∣man perceiuing that we meant to fight it out, and to set close to it, tooke his leaue, and went his way. I was so safely intrencht in my moneys, hauing Saya∣vedra then in my fauour (for being vpon our departure, it was no time now to stand with our hands vnder our girdle, nor to gather flowres, but to reape the fruits of our labours, and to hoyse sayle, and away) I sallyed safely out vpon them, beating them so shamefully, that I put them to flight, leauing behinde as a prey vnto me aboue fifteene thousand Royals in good gold. I gaue barato to those that were present, and to the Captaine who came thither anon after this field was fought, I closely clapt fiftie Crownes in his fiste, which was all one, as if with them I had bought me a slaue, and purchased me such a seruant as should sticke to me vpon all occasions.

This quarrell being ended, and the Gamesters gone, my Captaine tooke me aside, and we two being all alone, he aduised me, that on Sunday night following, being some foure dayes hence, the Galleys were to depart. Where∣upon, seeing my selfe thus straitned by time, I began to strike vp my drumme, to muster •…•…y forces together, and sending abroad my tickets, this way, and that way, first to one party, and then to another, aduertising my friends, that the wedding was to be solemnized the Munday following, and that they would be pleased to make me beholding vnto them for their promised fauour. The Ants doe not come so laden with corne in August, which they gather abroad in the fields, and bring home into their granaries, as they came tumbling into my lod∣ging with iewels, euery one striuing, who should send me the most, and the best. Which in a word, were so many, and so rich, that I was euen almost ashamed to receiue them. But I set a good face on the matter, because me thought they were not deare. My Vnckle sent me in a C•…•…llar to grace the Brides shoulders, and a girdle sutable vnto it, and a feather to adorne her head-dressing, which being all of gold, and set thicke with pearles, and precious stones, the three peeces were valued at more then three thousand Crownes. The rest did fur∣nish me with rich brooches, buttons, bodkins, bracelets, pendents, •…•…are-rings, tablets, carcanets, vayles, coyfes, and rings, all very curious, rich, and of great value. All which things, as fast as they came in, the Captaine vnwitting there∣of, I clapt vp closely within my trunks, which stood in a by-corner out of sight. The next three dayes that were left me, I spent in visiting my kindred, thank∣ing them for the vndeserued grace and fauour they had done me.

When Sunday was come, knowing that the Galleys were to weigh anchor a Munday morning betimes, and to put forth to Sea, I said to mine Hoste: Mine Hoste, I shall be abroad this night at play, at a friends house, where some Gentlemen haue appointed to meet, and if peraduenture it shall be somewhat late before we giue ouer play, I thinke I shall not onely sup, but lye there too, if we chance to breake off before it be day. And therefore (good mine Hoste) haue a care to the chamber, till we returne, though it may be, I shall send Saya∣vedra home vnto you. And so hauing the night to friend, I went out of my Inne, leauing mine Hoste two trunks, to pay for my dyet, and my lodging, du∣ring the time I stayed in Genoa. True it is, that by reason of the great haste we had to be gone, I left them both full, but of fine little pibbles that I had caused to be fetcht from the Sea-side; being in show, not much vnlike to your craggy Christall of the mountaine, which did weigh some twenty pound weight a peece.

All things being done and dispatcht as I would haue it, I went aboord the Galley, and cabbin'd with my friend Captaine Favelo. I want words to ex∣presse vnto you, the great entertainment, the Captaine (that night I came out of Genoa) made me, the costly supper, that he had prouided for me, and what a good bed I lay in. He demanded of me, how I had sped in my businesse. I told him, to mine owne good contentment and satisfaction; and that hereafter, I should giue him a more particular account thereof. With this answer he rested satisfied, and questioned me no farther about it. We sup, we sleepe, but I for my part not very quietly, for though I came cleare off, and had not any the least rub, but things ranne as fairely and smoothly, as in such a case I could haue wisht it, yet I had a little thing within, that checkt me, and told me in mine eare, that I had not done well, which did much trouble me for the time. I past ouer that night, as well as I could; and when the Sunne was vp, hauing not * 1.310 all this while perceiued the Galley so much as to wagg, nor hearing any bea∣ting of the oares, nor any the least noyse in the world, as if I had beene in the greatest solitude that the minde of man could imagine; being now fully awake∣ned, and going about to put on my cloathes; my Captaine comes into my Cabbin, and tells me, that we had doubled the Cape of Noli. So farre we had as faire a winde, and as fine weather, as heart could wish, but it did not still continue thus fauourable vnto vs, but much contrary, and full in the teeth of vs, as you shall heare hereafter. For Fortune is not alwayes prosperous; but with the Moone, hath her Crescents, and her Waynings, and by how much the more pleasing are her smiles, by so much the more sowre are her frownes, when shee changes the copie of her countenance. Onely I had a desire, whilest wee * 1.311 were making our voyage, to know what mine Hoste thought on, when hee saw I returned not the first night to my lodging. And what the second, when the rest could heare no newes of me, thinking with my selfe, what lamentation they would make for me. How many cold shaking fits of an Ague they would haue, for want of a warme blanket; how many couerlets would they cast vpon them, yet giue none to the Hospitall; what diligent search they would make after me; what seuerall coniectures, what should become of me; disputing with themselues, whether some bodie had not murther'd me, to make them∣selues masters of my wealth; or whether I had beene wounded in some quar∣rell. But I imagined with my selfe, that they conceiued, (and they were in the right) that I was gone along with the Galleys. And then being cleane out of hope of any humane remedie, I began to thinke with my selfe, how shrewdly the fleas would trouble them for many a faire night after.

Now did I begin to consider, what haste they made to vnrip my trunkes, that they might by them saue them-selues harmelesse, euery one first alledging the antelation of time, and prioritie of his debt, and so by the ordinarie course of Law in those parts, pretend as he was the first Creditor, that he might be first paid. Me thought I did likewise see, how mine Hoste did hugg himselfe, how he did laugh and chucke for ioy, to thinke how rich I had left him, by leauing him these two trunkes, which being valued according to their weight, might very well haue contented him, for a farre longer and larger allowance, then I could possible spend in so short a time. But the worth did not answer the weight: For there was nothing in them, but stones, which if he were minded to hang himselfe, might serue for his sepulchre. And what say you to my old Vnckle, doe not you thinke that he was well prouided for, with those pretious stones, which Sayavedra acquainted him withall? But that other kinsman of mine, who went away with the chaine, who doubts it, but that he did laugh in his sleeue at the rest of his fellowes, when he saw he had such a sure pawne in his hands, all pure linkes of gold, that he might very well pay both the Principall, and the Interest. But when he found it was not Gold, but Alchymie, light and false Latten, being no better (taking away its guilding, and fashion)

then base brasse, course copper, or such mettall, as you make your candlesticks, what man can imagine, what strange mouthes and faces he made? How hee hang'd downe his head, fixing his eyes on the ground, then lifting it vp againe, turne vp the white of his eyes towards heauen, not out of any desire that he had to blesse him, that had made him to shine and glitter thus gloriously, but to curse my mothers wombe, for bringing forth such a Picaro, such a base ras∣call, and arrant theefe as I was. In this pickle I left them, and so we parted. A man might then haue said that of them, which one blinde man said to ano∣ther in Toledo, who being to part companie, and to goe each to his owne house, when they tooke their leaues, said each to other; Good night (Gossip) till we see one another againe.

CHAP. X.

Guzman de Alfarache sayling toward Spaine, Sayavedra by reason of a great storme, growes Sea-sicke. He falls into a Calenture, or burning feuer. He waxes light-headed, and loseth his wits. He cryes out, that he is Guzman de Alfarache, and growing mad, throwes himselfe into the Sea, where he is drowned.

WE had such faire weather when we set forth of Genoa, that the Tuesday following, by Sunne-rising, we had (as I told you before) doubled the Cape of Noli. And till we came to the a 1.312 Pomas de Marsella, we had as fauourable and prosperous a winde, as we could wish. There did we expect that the winde should still blow faire, hauing all this while show'd it selfe so friendly and louing vnto vs. For we had a fresh gale from the East, which holpe vs so well, that the next day towards the Euening, we discouered, to our gene∣rall ioy, the coast of Spaine. But fortune, hauing not the strength to stand firme, nor being alwayes one and the same; but weake and various, began to manifest vnto vs the small confidence that we ought to haue of her; whereof, too soone to our great hurt, we had sufficient tryall. And now, hearing the Mariners call one to another in those termes and language, which is vsuall with them in such cases, Heauen was couered all ouer towards the North-west, with darke and thicke clouds, which guttered downe vpon vs huge and great drops of raine. Our good winde had bid vs farewell, and our hearts began to be so sad, and so heauy, as if all that same darksome blacknesse had quite ouer-cast them, such a cloud of sorrow, had like a curtaine, ouer-spred those late lightsome fa∣culties of our soules. Which being foreseene by the Pilots, and those other watry-Counsellors at Sea, they held a Councell in the poope, debating to and fro, what course was fittest to be taken, to preuent such fearefull threatnings. Euery one spake his opinion, deliuering what he in his iudgement deemed best to be done. But seeing the winde begin to lay lustily about him, bearing his brazen wings against our woodden sides, and his forces increasing more and more, without any other resolution, before their consultation could come to a conclusion, they were instantly, without any more adoe, inforced to let fall their maine sayle, which when they had ruffled, and laid as low as the decke would giue them leaue, they tooke out another lesser one, which they call Ma∣•…•…buto. (as they doe the other, la Borda) which is a kinde of triangulary sayle, cut out into three corners, after the manner of a womans kerchiefe; (This they call la Latina) and this they set vp about the middle of the maste, which stood at the end of the last banke of oares, fitting them-selues afterwards with those other things, that were needfull on such an occasion. They fastned their oares to the vpper deck: The passengers, and their souldiers, they commanded (sore

against their wills) to keepe themselues vnder hatches: They fell a caulking of the Galley, from the prowe to the poope, nor were they wanting in any one of those diligences, that were necessarie for the sauing of our lifes.

Whilest they were thus busie, the night grew on, and a pitchy darknesse had (like a pauillion) pitched it selfe round about vs, all was clouds, Aegyptian clouds, blacke and darke as Hell; so that hauing lost the comfort of the light, we lost likewise with it all hope of safetie; especially when we saw that the storme was no whit allayd, but rather more and more increased vpon vs. Wherefore for the better auoyding of so many dangers, whereinto by reason of this tempest, they were like to runne, they gaue present order to hang out the lanterne, that they might the better see what they did. The Sea, now be∣gan to swell, and lifted one while its waues as high as heauen, and by and by aga ne, abasing that their pride, they tumbled downe so low, that they opened the bosome of the Sea so wide, that you might see the sand that lay in the bot∣tome. They were faine to appoint another to assist at the helme, that was an expert Pilot indeed, and knew how to guide the Rudder to a haire. The Ma∣sters-mate they caused to be tyde fast in a chayre to the post neere vnto the poope, as being resolued either to dye in that place without remouing from thence, or to keepe the Galley aliue, and set her in safetie.

Whilest this skilfull Mariner was labouring to put this his deliberation in execution, we often demanded of him, if we were in any great danger; and much more often then he was willing to heare. See how blind-sighted wee were, that we would rather giue credit to that which had proceeded from his mouth, then that which we saw with our owne eyes, which represented no∣thing but death vnto vs. But his lying tongue, seemed to afford vs like com∣fort, as doth that of the Physitian to the sorrowfull and afflicted father, who questions him touching the health, and life of his sonne, and whether he be likely to dye of this disease, or whether he be dead already: Who tells him, That (God be thanked) he is on the mending hand. In like manner, the Ma∣sters-mate, making answer vnto vs, for to cheere vs vp, and to put vs in heart, would bawle out aloud vnto vs, Que todo eranada. Tush, all this was nothing. And therefore be of good comfort (my Hearts.) And indeed, in telling vs so, he told vs but the truth. For all this was nothing, to that which came after. For the winde had torne our sayles to fitters, there was not one whole peece, all was rents, and rags, and it grew higher and higher still, so that we were for∣ced to clap on our Treo, which is a kinde of round sayle, which they make vse of in stormes. Fortunes hand did not yet grow weary with whipping vs; but as if shee had not punisht vs sufficiently already, it was our hap to haue an ill gui∣ded Galley to fall foule vpon vs, which striking vs with her prowe on the poope, made her ducke her head into the Sea, and had well-nigh ouer-turn'd her; and to make this encounter the more vnlucky, the blow, and the losse of our Rudder (whereon did depend the hope of our safetie) hapned both at one and the same instant. Whe efore seeing our selues now depriued both of our hope, and helme, wanting a Rudder wherewith to steare, yeelding our selues to the mercy of the Seas, as men despayring of any remedie to repayre this losse, yet that they might not desist to vse all the meanes they could, which they thought might make best for our good, (making a vertue of necessitie) they made as good shift as they could, by clapping a couple of oares in the place, guiding therewith the Galley (besides the danger) with a great deale of toyle, and labour.

And how shall I here be able to expresse but the halfe, nay the least part of that vnto you, which these eyes saw, and these eares heard? I doe not know the tongue that can speake it. But say I should light on such a tongue; yet, I am sure, I shall hardly meet with those men that will beleeue it. O, how many vowes did they then make I How many Inuocations to Saints, euery one

calling on that, which was the greatest and famousest in his owne Countrey? What various deuotions, what a generall recourse to their prayers? And some were so childish and so foolish, that you should heare no other word come from them, but, O my mother, ò sweet mother! How many abuses, and how many absurdities, were committed amongst them! Confessing themselues one to another, as if they could be their ghostly fathers, and had power to absolue them. Others in a loud voyce made confession of those sinnes vnto God, where∣in they had offended him; and as if they thought that God were deafe and thicke of hearing, they would stretch out their throats as high as heauen, perswading themselues perhaps, by the force of this their breath, to send their soules packing in that very instant vp vnto heauen.

In this desperate, and wofull manner, did our poore weather-beaten Galley endure this misery, together with those that were in her, till the next day fol∣lowing, when as with the brightnesse of the Sunne, and the clearing of the skie, we began to recouer breath, so that now all was ioy, and our sorrow was turned into mirth, cheering, and hartning vp one another. Certainly, it can∣not be denyed, That of all those dangers, that attend vpon death, that is al∣wayes most feared, which is still neerest vnto vs. For from those other, wee thinke we may well scape. But I did not so much feare this storme, nor so sen∣sibly apprehend the danger thereof, as I stood in feare by a contrary winde, and the new rigging vp of our Galley, to be carryed backe againe to Genoa. It was not the Sea, but the shame, that wrought vpon me. This was it, that made me to say to my selfe, when I saw how the winds blew, and the Seas raged, that all the rest did fare the worse for my sake, and that I was that Ionas, for whom this tempest was rais'd, that it might raise me vp to repentance.

Sayavedra became so Sea-sicke, that he fell into a shrewd burning feuer, and * 1.313 shortly after grew besides himselfe. It would haue grieu'd a mans heart, and moued much compassion, to see the things that he did, and the fooleries which he vttered; and sometimes, when the storme was greatest, and the danger most, while others were a confessing their sinnes, he would cry out in a loud voyce; I am Guzman de Alfaraches ghost, I am that ghost of his, which goes thus wandring vp and downe the world; whereat he made me often both laugh, and feare. But though he should haue vented some thing vnhappily, they all saw that he was mad, and so regarded not what he said. Yet for all this, he would not leaue his talking, but by flashes would fall a ripping vp of my life, and bolte out by fits, all that which I had formerly recounted vnto him concer∣ning the courses I had taken, composing a thousand extrauagancies. And if by chance he heard any man talke of promising to performe a pilgrimage to Mon∣serrate, thither would he leade me; telling, at what stations, and weddings he had beene there with me. He did dresse me (like a French Cooke) a thousand seuerall wayes. But that which was most to be laughed at, (though it much pittied mee to see him in that state) and wherein I tooke most pleasure, was; That he spake all these things of himselfe, as if he had beene true Guzman indeed.

In briefe, we being all shrewdly beaten, and growne extreame weary with our late storme, the night following we went in a good houre to take our rest, to see if we could recouer that old debt of our former lost sleepe. We were all of vs so weary, and so drowsie, and our Galley so batterd, and torne about the poope, that Sayavedra rising vp in his franticke fit, lept at that open place where our rudder was split from vs, into the Sea, on whom we could neuer after * 1.314 set eye; though the Mariner that kept watch, as soone as he heard the flownce of the fall, presently cryde out, Hombre a la mar; There is some bodie fallen into the water. Whereupon we began presently to coniecture, that it must needs be he; and vpon inquiry finding him wanting, we sought to recouer him, but it would not be. And so poore Sayavedra was buried in the Sea; all

of them much lamenting his misfortune, and seeking all that they could, to comfort me. I made show, as if I had beene exceeding sorry for him, but God he knowes how true it was. The next day I got me vp betimes in the mor∣ning, which I wholly spent in receiuing the condolings, which they made vnto me, which were done in that dolefull fashion, as if he had beene a brother, a kinsman, or the neerest and dearest friend that I had in the world, bewayling the great losse that I had sustained in him; or as if, when he threw himselfe into the Sea, he had carryed away my trunkes likewise with him. God blesse me from that mischance (said I to my selfe) as for any other misfortune, I doubt not but I shall very easily ouer-passe it. They knew not how (more then this) to comfort me, nor what they should ente taine me withall to diuert my griefe; for they did verily beleeue, that I was wonderfull sorry for him, because I had put on a seeming heauinesse. And the more they sought to bring me out of it, the more I feigned to be in it; at last they called to one that had beene con∣demned to the Galleys, who was very studious, and a great louer of curiosities, that he should come where I was, and bring a certaine booke along with him, which he had written with his owne hand, which the Captaine taking from him, and turning ouer the leafes in a carelesse kinde of fashion, he lighted by chance vpon a notable storie which hapned in Sevill; and returning backe the booke to the owner, he will'd him to reade it vnto me. He thereupon required their attention; which being granted vnto him, he began to reade as follow∣eth; recommending it first vnto them, as well for its strangenesse, as its truth.

There was in Sevill (the famousest Citie in all Spaine, and the Metropolis of * 1.315 Andaluzia) a Merchant that was a stranger, well borne, rich, and honest, whose name was Miçer Iacobo. He had two sons, and one daughter by a noble Gentle∣woman of that Citie. They being carefully trayned vp in vertue, in good man∣ners, and in all kinde of learning appertayning to the liberall Arts: And shee bred vp to her needle, wherein for curious workmanship, shee did excell, (all the Gentlewomen in those parts, being meere bunglers vnto her.) And there was some reason, why shee should be so exquisite, and singular the ein, for that from her childhood, shee had beene bred vp in a Monasterie of Nunnes, by reason that her mother dyde in child-bed, when shee was borne.

Now in regard that the goods of fortune, are mutable and vncertaine, and more in Merchants then other men, who carry their wealth in other mens pur∣ses, and commit their estates to the disposition of the winde and the weather, there being not halfe a foot difference betwixt their making and their mar∣ring, their inriching or vndoing. It so fell out, that his two sonnes returning home from the Indies, and bringing along with them good store of gold and siluer, when they were now come within sight of the barre of San Lucar, and thinking them selues as safe, as if they had beene (as they say) within the doores of th•…•…i owne house, there arises a huge storme on the sodaine, and the Sea inraged with the boysterous blustrings of the windes, begins to swell, and lo•…•…ke big vpon them with its billowes; insomuch, that this poore vnfortunate ship, set vpon by two such fierce and cruell enemies, was miserably tossed to and fro, and so violently carryed out of its course, that at last vnable any longer to resist the rage of this terrible tempest, shee desperately ranne her selfe vpon a rocke, the terriblenesse of which blow, did not only open her wombe, and cleaue it cleane in the midst, but did split all the ribs of her in a thousand pee∣ces; so that both men and goods were all cast away, and vtterly lost, and neuer after either seene, or heard of.

When the heauy newes of so great a losse (whose nimblenesse lyes onely in its wing) came flying to the fathers care, such a deepe melancholy sodainely seazed on all his vitall parts, that with the griefe thereof, within a few dayes af∣ter, he also dyed. His daughter that remained in the Couent, hauing lost all her wealth, her father, her mother, & both her brothers, remaining thus aban∣doned,

and left to shift for her selfe, was wonderfully sensible of this her wofull estate (which might likewise haue much troubled any man whatsoeuer, though neuer so wise) when she saw, that in so short a time, which might in a manner runne in the reckoning (as it were) of one day, shee had lost so many reall com∣forts, and with them, that hope of remedie to allay her miseries, (for shee much desired to become a Nunne) shee wept so bitterly, and tooke on so pitti∣fully, that it would haue grieued any mans heart, to see the sorrowfull lamen∣tation that shee made. Here ceased her designes, and here began her sorrowes; Here ceased her plenty, and here began her want; Here ceased her b 1.316 regalos, and here began her troubles. Which went daily so increasing vpon her, that shee knew not in the world what to doe, nor how to be able to maintaine her∣selfe in the Nunnerie. And albeit all the Nunnes there wisht her exceeding well, and bare her great loue and affection for the noblenesse of her condition and qualitie, her affabilitie, ciuilitie, goodnesse of nature, sweetnesse of beha∣uiour, and other commendable parts, condoling very much this her present necessitie, and pouertie; and were very desirous that shee should continue still amongst them, yet could they not possibly bring it to passe. For their wills be∣ing subordinate to that of their Superiour, it being in their Prelates, and not their owne choice, neither could they effect what they desired, nor shee conti∣nue any longer amongst them. For very shortly after it was notified vnto her, that she should either leaue the house, or if she had a minde to stay, forthwith to assigne her dowry. But shee not being able (for want of meanes) to cumply with the second condition, shee was forc't to entertaine the former. This poore distressed maid was so cunning at her needle, and had such a curious hand in all kinde of workes, white or blacke, in silke or gold, and in ordering her co∣lours, to giue true life and perfection to whatsoeuer shee tooke in hand, that the fame thereof was spred ouer all the Citie.

To this summe, I must adde the vertues of her soule, and the beauty of her face, both which were in that height of excellencie, (the parts of her bodie, being answerable to those of her minde) that he that had but once seene her, would verily haue thought, nay almost sworne, that two most cunning and ex∣quisite Artizans, had in emulation one to the other, spent all their spirits, and imployde the vtmost of their skill, in framing such a singular creature as shee was, being such a perfect peece of beauty, and goodnesse, that shee might draw off the beholders eyes from all other obiects (though not vnworthy the look∣ing on) and attract them to her selfe. Yet all this put together, being in that (if the word doe not exceed) excesse, was nothing, being compared with her retirednesse of life, her mortification of the flesh, her fasts, prayers, and penance. Shee, not vnwitting, that shee was now thrust out into the wide world, that shee had no more any Nunnerie to shelter, but lay open to the venues of For∣tune, if shee did not the better stand vpon her guard, fearing the worlds mur∣muring, and those occasions, which might bring some scandall vpon her repu∣tation, as one that was wonderfull tender and iealous of her honour, shee had got her a lodging, where shee had the companie of diuers other vertuous and religious young maydens; and there, without any suspition, or least shadow of any ill intention, hauing no other helpe or meanes to liue, saue the sweat of her browes, and the labour of her fingers ends, shee liu'd there very frugally, keeping her-selfe within her bounds, and giuing a good example of her vertue to all the young damosels of her time.

The Archbishop of that Citie, had a great desire to haue some curiosities made for him, as certaine wrought Chalice-cloathes, c 1.317 neat towels, handsome napkins, dainty handkerchers, and the like, to wrap the Hoste in, bordered about with some historicall worke, as should best fit with the vse whereunto •…•…hey serued, and to haue them done as neere to the life as Art could attaine vnto. After much inquirie made, there being none to be found, that could doe

these things halfe so well as Dorotea (for so was this Gentle-woman called) vpon the good report they had heard of her, they sought her out, and recom∣mended this worke vnto her care, promising shee should be well paid for her paines. Shee considered with her-selfe, that for such a curious peece of worke as this was to be, shee must make choyce of the best, the purest, the brightest, and the finest gold threed that shee could get for money, whatsoeuer it cost. And because they that know best how to bestow it, know best how to buy it, shee her-selfe, taking some of her neighbours and friends along with her, went to seeke out this ware amongst the Gold-beaters shops, who in Sevill both make and sell these kinde of commodities. It was their hap to come to a young mans shop, that was a handsome fellow, and well behau'd, who had but newly set vp for him-selfe, and to get him the better custome, stroue to haue his shop well furnisht, and indeed, had better and more choyce then the rest of his neigh∣bours, that traded in that kinde. Of this youg man, shee was willing to buy all the gold, that shee had occasion to vse about this worke (as well because shee found it was fit for her turne, as likewise to excuse her-selfe a labour of going too oft out of doores) if shee had had so much money, as would haue done the deed: but hauing no more store, then that little which they had giuen her to begin the worke withall, shee told the Master of the shop, that shee would be∣stow a little money with him now, but shee would come againe for more, as her worke went on, and her moneys came in. This young Occupyer, when he had beheld the beauty, and composed countenance of this young mayden, and had well obserued her manner of speech, her honest cariage, and modest beha∣uiour, he fell into that good liking of her, and was so farre in loue with her, that the least that he could haue found in his heart to haue giuen her, was all the gold that shee had occasion to vse, which was no great matter, being that at that very instant, he had deliuered vp his soule vnto her. And perceiuing, that shee forbore to buy so much, as otherwise shee would willingly haue done, for that shee wanted money, embracing the occasion, which he had now in his hands, not so much to gaine her farther custome, as to expresse the affection that he bare vnto her, and to draw her into a good opinion of him, not suffering her to part vpon those termes, he said vnto her; Mistresse, if the gold be good, and such as you looke after, and that it be for your turne, picke and choose where you like, and carry away with you as much as you haue vse for, or what you please, and pay me now what you can well spare, as for the rest you shall pay me by little and little, as you shall receiue it from their hands that set you a worke. The young man seemed to them all, to be very kinde and courteous, and for the ware, they could finde no fault with it, being as good, as them-selues could wish or desire. Dorotea made him present payment of as much as shee had, and hauing made choyce of as much gold, as shee thought good and need∣full for her, shee carried it away with her, leauing with him the name of the street, whither he should either come or send for that which was remayning behinde. That done, they presently went their way, the poore young man being so loue-strucken after their departure, and so pittifully wounded with this amorous arrow, that he was as farre from him-selfe, as from all rest, being tossed to and fro with various thoughts, hauing his braines beaten with many troublesome and vnquiet imaginations. Loue had almost burst the very heart of him; He did neither eat, nor drinke, nor any thing else, that might seeme to beare the name of life: so altogether was his soule occupied in the contem∣plation of that rare and incomparable beauty, and that mirrour of all vertue, that this his troublesome life, was to him as bad as death, not knowing in the world what to doe. At last, it seeming vnto him, that shee was a poore young mayden, and that by meanes of mariage, his chafte desires might arriue in the end to some happy port, hee resolued to informe him-selfe what shee was, as also of what life, behauiour, and birth.

The reports which were giuen of her, were such, that hee was now more perplexed, and lesse confident then before. Despairing in a manner with him-selfe, that he should euer be able to enioy so rich a iewell, holding him-selfe full more and more vnworthy of so great a happinesse, as to obtaine her to bee his Spouse. Hee was now quite out of heart, as knowing him-selfe too meane for her worth: But because it was not possible for him now to goe backe, nor did it lye in his hands (if he would) to haue done it; and for that the passions of the soule, are no lesse preualent in the poore, then the powerfull, and that all are all alike subiect thereunto, and equally affected with them; howbeit he found him-selfe cast so farre behind-hand, yet did hee neuer leaue striuing to trie if he could get before, perseuering still in his honest purpose, for that hee put him-selfe into Gods hands, who doth alwayes fauour our good intentions, and knowes how to accommodate those things, that tend to his seruice, accor∣ding to his diuine will and pleasure; presenting euermore in his prayers and supplications vnto him, that his desire was no other, then to get him a compa∣nion, with whom he might be the better inabled to serue him, and more par∣ticularly, that he might be linked in lawfull mariage vvith this so vertuous a creature, and one that vvas so much to his hearts-liking and content; yet not that his, but Gods vvill should be done, where-unto he should most vvillingly submit him-selfe, and that he should so farre grant his request (and no farther) as it should seeme best to his Maiestie, and make most for his seruice.

He went likewise discoursing with him-selfe; and amongst many other, this one presented it selfe to his imagination; That peraduenture her great pouerty, her wary discretion, and vigilant fore-sight, would force her thereunto, consi∣dering the solitary kind of life she now led, and the remedy thereof, and laying aside those vaine points of honour, not measuring her selfe by what shee was, but what she is, she would happely accommodate her selfe to the condition of her present fortune; and that, when his honest desire to serue her, should bee truly represented vnto her, she may chance to yeeld to my faire request. Inter∣taining him-selfe with these thoughts & cares, he was minded to call vpon her for the money which she ought him, but not with purpose to presse her there∣with, nor to be troublesome therein vnto her, but taking occasion rather one while to see this her curious worke, another while, that passing that way, hee was of purpose come thither to know whether she needed any more gold, and if she did, that she should not want it, whilest he had any that was fit for her; & so fetching many a walke thither, excusing him-selfe in the best mannerthat he could, and as he thought would make most for the performing of these his frequent visites, and the procuring of her good will and acquaintance, for that time he pretended nothing else; to the end, that this being first obtained, he might the better play his game hereafter, and in the interim mitigate some part of that sorrow which her absence did continually torment him withall. In this, the young man shew'd him-selfe as discreet, as solicitous; and as solici∣tous, as truly louing. Going on in those good and honest tearmes, that in a short time he gained the good wills of all those that conuersed and were com∣panions to Dorotea. Being so farre from disliking his often visites, that they rather receiu'd them as fauours and courtesies. Amongst the rest, that liu'd there together, there were foure Sisters, to one of which, as being the grauest and reuerendest of the company, they did all shew a kinde of respect, as well for her temper and wisedome, as also for her priority of yeeres. With this graue Matron, our young man seekes to enter into a stricter kind of friendship, by reuerencing her, and obseruing her, and by presenting her with some such tokens and remembrances, as might su•…•…e best with the respect (more then loue) that he bare vnto her. So that in the end, time bringing forth occasion, by degrees he discouered him-selfe vnto her, making her acquainted with his de∣sires, not omitting any thing that might make her fully to vnderstand the

greatnesse of his affection, and the fairnesse of his pretension. Earnestly intrea∣ting her withall, that by interposing her power and authority, she would be a meanes, that his hopes should not returne home empty, and vnrewarded, her worth, and wisedome, putting him in good assurance of the contrary. And that therefore she would be pleased to continue her good fauour towards him; and as occasion should offer, that she should goe working and disposing this pe•…•…ce of waxe, to receiue the impression of his affection; leauing it to her, to imprint it in her to the life, that seeing the truenesse of the stampe, shee might be the soo∣ner molded to entertaine the motion: But in case shee should not finde her plyable, but tough and hard to be wrought vpon, shee would seeke to mollifie her by her meeke and gentle perswasions, and remoue all those difficulties, which on her part might be a hinderance to these his honest desires; for on his part, he vow'd and protested vnto her, that nothing should be able to crosse it, but that with open armes he would runne to embrace her, submitting him∣selfe to be in all things ordered, if not ouer-ruled by them. Good meanes, se∣conded by good intentions, and which, without any humane respects, treat of honest things (carrying a sound heart in their breasts, and a true tongue in their heads) haue alwayes such force and power with them, that they easily per∣swade, because truly beleeu'd.

This Gentle-woman, so wrought with Dorotea, sometimes this way, and sometimes that, now vsing t'one, then t'other meanes, till at last, shee brought the businesse so about, that shee being conuinced by reason, began to yeeld to her perswasions, and to condescend to the motion that shee made vnto her; and obeying her in all things, as if shee had beene her owne naturall mother, shee kist her hands, in acknowledgment of her thankfulnesse, putting her-selfe wholly into her hands. In conclusion, the match was made vp betweene them to both their good likings, but more especially on Bonifacio his part (for so was her husband called) for that he was fully perswaded, that in meeting with this iewell, no man was more happy, more fortunate, and more rich then himselfe; hauing now got him such a w•…•…e, as his owne heart could not haue wisht a better, being greater in her condition and qualitie, then he deserued, and such a good creature besides, that he could leade a secure and honest course of life with her, without feare or trouble of any iellous thoughts, nor of any other thing that might cause his disquiet. They liued very contentedly together, making exceeding much of each other, and wonderfully well satisfied of that chaste and true loue, which they bare one to another. He did ordinarily at∣tend his shop, busying himselfe (for both their benefits) in the exercise of his Trade, and shee abiding aboue in her chamber, either playing the good hus∣wife, in those things that appertained to the good gouernment of the house; or following her needle, spending part of that gold threed which her husband sold, in working goodly borders, garnishing them with curious flowers in their true and naturall colours, and other the like neat and dainty peeces, wherein shee did excell. Their gaines were great, and to make this their hap∣pinesse the fuller, there was that conformitie in their loue, and such an equall retribution in their affections, that no two in the world could liue more ho∣nestly, and more louingly together then they did.

But the Deuill, who is still waking, and neuer sleeps, but still watches most how he may breake the bond of peace, and breed brawles in loue, against this louing Couple, these who agreed so well together, that there was neuer yet any the least difference betweene them, prepares his pit-falls, sets vp his traps, and spreads his nets with all secrecie, and all the skill and cunning he could de∣uise, to doe them all the mischiefe he could, and if it were possible, to throw this vniforme frame, and strong peece of building to the ground. He followed this poore soule close at the heeles, watching aduantage how he might trip her vp, and ouerthrow her, and in case he could not doe that, yet at least to giue

her a foyle, or make her to stumble. Insomuch, that at her Visites, when shee was at Masse, or at Sermon, yea in her greatest deuotion, when shee was recei∣uing the Sacrament, he did still seeke to trouble her, presenting her with the instruments of his malice and wickednesse, young Gallants, discreet in their cariage, neat in their cloathes, and sweet in their perfumes, who fell a courting her, when shee came forth, following and soliciting her whither-soeuer shee went: but all these tricks would not serue the Deuils turne, he did not reape the fruit he hoped for; for this chaste woman, standing stiffely to her tackling, and giuing her enemie no ground, did euermore with-stand these lightnesses, by opposing against them a constant chaste minde, and a setled, and well resol∣ued honestie. And howbeit, for to auoyd all occasion, shee did forbeare, as much as shee possibly could to goe abroad, and when shee did, it was very sel∣dome, and when shee was of necessitie inforced thereunto, at which time shee was likewise haunted and persecuted by them. They did round her doore night and day, they sought inuentions, and vsed all the meanes that might be for to see her; neither did this also profit them any thing.

Amongst those Gallants, that desired to serue her (for all of them were young Gentle-men, of very good fashion, and the chiefest in Sevill) there was one, hat was d 1.318 Teniente of the Towne, a young man, vnmarried, and rich. This Gentle-man liu'd right against the house where shee dwelt, where hee had very faire and goodly roomes, being especiall and principall lod∣gings, and of so many stories high, and those goodly open galleries, that they did ouer-top and looke into those lower ones of Dorotea, notwithstanding that they were distanced by a whole street, that interposed it selfe betweene their houses. So that from his Turrets, his Terraces, and his high windowes, he might ouer-looke her, and see what shee did; and that so plainly, that neither her husband, nor her-selfe, could scarce rise vp in the morning to make them ready, or at night get them to bed, without being seene and espyed by him; especially they being carelesse, and heeding no such matter, and the other with extraordinarie diligence, watching and prying what they did. This Teniente then, making vse of this occasion, with all carefulnesse and vigilancie, accom∣panied with insupportable passions, and sorrowes, did labour (as if his life had layen vpon it) how he might come to haue some speech with her, or receiue any fauour from her hands. But finding in the end, that he lost his labour, and spent his time in vaine, he was forced, as the rest of his fellowes were, to giue ouer his e 1.319 sute, set vp his rest, and turne backe the same way he came, without obtayning any the least looke, or fauour from her, not being able to perceiue in her any shadow of hope, that either now or hereafter (though neuer so small) shee was likely to graunt him. For this chaste woman did liue in that sober and discreet fashion, and did so well and wisely gouerne her-selfe, that shee put him quite off from any suspition, which might incourage him to pretend any kindnesse from her, or but wash off one haires bredth of gold from this good creatures credit; though it is not to be doubted, he vsed all the Art he could, to haue made her some few graines lighter then shee was.

There went likewise along in the same dance with the rest, another Peniten∣tiarie, that was of the same brotherhood and companie of these foolish f 1.320 Disci∣plinantes, and selfe-afflicting louers. This was a Gentleman of Burgos, gallant, young, discreet, and rich. Which good parts, fauoured by his franke, and boun∣tifull disposition, might (a man would haue thought) haue digg'd downe mountaines, and laid them leuell with the lowest earth. But the chaste Dorotea, neither by this Gentlemans good parts, nor the Teniente's great power, nor all the passions of other her Louers, could be moued one •…•…ot from her honourable resolution, not hauing any sense or feeling thereof in the world, as if shee had beene no woman of this world, or had minded any such matter. Against all these assaults, shee show'd her-selfe a strong Tower, an inexpugnable rocke,

against which the continuall beatings of those furious waues of their raging lust and froathy appetite (not being able to preuaile) were broken and dasht in peeces. And it is not to be doubted, but that her honestie, continually keeping watch, like the Crane, that with the stone of Gods loue, raising her-selfe from the ground, and her foot standing fast and firme on the steedy affection that shee bare to her husband, did free her from these birds of rapine, these Eagles of Caucasus, that sought to make a prey of her. And it had beene impossible to haue wounded either her, or her honestie, if the cunning and crafty Fowler had not spred his net, couering and shadowing it ouer with the greene grasse of holinesse, and simulated sanctitie, to intrap this simple, harmelesse, and in∣nocent Doue. This Burgalese (whose name was Claudio) had to his seruant a dainty fine shee-slaue, not swarfe and tawney (as others commonly be) but faire and well-fauour'd, of a good presence, a good garbe, and gracefull beha∣uiour, borne in Spaine of a Moorish slaue of Barbary. Shee was so cunning, so subtle, so nimble witted, so dextrous in her tricks and deuices, such a worker of her-selfe into all folkes loues and affections (were it for her owne ends, or others) so curious in visiting Church-yards, so charitable in accompanying those that were to be hang'd, that shee was able to make g 1.321 water-cresses to grow on the top of a bed. Shee was such a one, as for such like affaires, her fellow was not to be found. Her Master one day call'd her vnto him, and giuing her account of this his Loue-torment, he craued her counsell, how he might come to compasse his pretension. This his good slaue, after that shee had beene well informed of the businesse, and knew how the case stood with him, as if shee had beene in iest, smilingly said vnto him; Why how now (my good Master) what mountaines haue you to remoue? What Seas to dry vp? What dead to raise vnto life? What great difficultie is there in that which doth thus afflict thee? Or why doest thou so indeare it vnto me? Sir, Are not these things that I am well seene in? Little oyle, and lesse labour, will serue to bring this wheele about, then thou thinkst for. Thou mayest now make reckoning that shee is thine owne, and that thou hast her already in thy hands. Let not this therefore trouble thee any farther, but be of good cheere, and plucke vp thy heart; for within these few dayes, I will deliuer this Hare into thy lap. And if I doe not, let me lose my name for euer, and call me no more Sabina, the daughter of Haja. From that time forward, shee tooke this businesse to taske, and began from that very instant, like a cunning Chesse-player, so to order and marshall her men, designing with her-selfe how to make her draughts, and within how many re∣moues, to giue first the checke, and then the check-mate. Now does shee set her-selfe roundly to her play, and begins this her game, mouing first one of her pawnes, reseruing her best men for the last push, if the meaner should miscarry in this battaile.

First of all therefore, shee makes me a fine delicate little basket, of the greene sprigs of Mirtles, Pome-citrons, & Oranges, adorning and setting it forth with Gally-flowres, Geeimines, Muske-roses, and other sweet flowres, bound in with small tender bull-rushes, which were composed and set together in most dainty and curious manner. This basket shee takes along with her, and beares it to the Gold-beater; Telling him, that shee was seruant to a certaine Gentle∣woman that was a Nunne in that Citie, and Lady-Abbesse of a Couent; who hauing notice of the goodnesse of his ware, and hauing necessary vse of some of his best gold, for to flourish ouer certaine things, which were to serue for some ornament that were to adorne that Monasterie against Midsommer day, which was a great Festiuall with them, shee had sent him that little basket for a token, intreating him, to send her two pound of his purest and finest gold, that shee might make proofe of it, and that if it should be found to be so good, as to her it had beene commended, and that shee found it fit for her purpose, shee would pay him well for it, and he should from hence-forth haue her

custome for all the gold that should be spent in her House, sending weekly for so much as they had occasion to vse. Besides, shee would be ve•…•…y thankfull vnto him, if he seru'd her well, and bestow now and then vpon him such dain∣ties and curiosities, as those religious places vsually afford. B•…•…facio was m•…•…ch gladded with this new occasion of fresh gaines, and no lesse with his little bas∣ket of flowres, which he made much reckoning of, being so neatly and ar•…•…fi∣cially wrought, as indeed it was. Which he had no sooner receiued (hauing first dispatcht the slaue away with the gold) but he presently carryes it vp to his wife, putding it in her lap with great ioy, which was by her with no lesse re∣ceiued Shee asked him, of whom hee had bought it: And then he told her all that had passed. Then did shee esteeme it much more then before, because it brought to her remembrance the time of her childhood, when with other girles of her yeeres, and the Nunnes of the Couent, shee did busie her-selfe in the like exercises. Whereupon, shee intreated her husband, that when shee came to him againe, he would send her vp vnto her, for shee would gladly be acquainted with her.

The next weeke following, being some six dayes after, Sabina returnes very iocondly, boasting how good the gold was, and that shee was come for as much more of the same; bringing with her a large message in the behalfe of her Mi∣stresse the L•…•…dy-Abbesse, and presenting him from her, with a little image of the rinde of Limmons, and a Rosario sutable to the same, so cariously cut out, that it was well worthy much estimation. As soone as he saw it, he would not him-selfe receiue it of her, but intreated her, that shee with her owne hands would deliuer it to Dorotea his wife. Now the h 1.322 sop was fallen into the honey∣pot. * 1.323 Now had she what she would haue. This fell out as pat for her as a pudding for a Fiyars mouth. But making strange of this newes, and as though shee had knowne no such matter, shee said vnto him. Ah, thou naughty man, doest thou speake in carnest? Art thou marryed indeed? I doe not beleeue it. Thou art bought and sold with vs for a single man, we tooke thee to be a Batchclour, and my Mistresse talkt of marrying thee with a pretty Lay-mayd•…•… t•…•…at we haue in our House, as fine and as fresh as the flowres in May, and is both beau∣tifull, and rich. Bonifacio replyde; I haue one already as rich and as beautifull, as you there can giue me any, and with whom I liue most contentedly. And if you will not beleeue me, goe vp, and see. Sabina then said vnto him; In faith no, not I, you shall not get me vp stayres, I am afraid you will play the wagg with me, and that you doe but iest. I assure you, I doe not iest (said Bonifacio) and therefore (friend Sabina) you may boldly goe vp. Vp shee goes, and ha∣uing entred the roome where shee was, shee no sooner saw Dorotea, but shee runnes with open armes towards her, and throwes her-selfe downe at her feet, making a thousand ducks and reuerences vnto her after the Moorish fashion, admiring much her rare and singular beauty, which though shee had heard it much spoken of before, yet this worke of nature, went farre beyond the words that were vttered of it. For it was such an admirable peece, that report was not able to expresse it to the lise, but must needs fall short in the praising of it. But shee stood like one astonished, when shee beheld the frames, and those loomes of rich embroyderies, and other the like workes, wherein shee spent her time, wondring at their perfection and curiositie, saying vnto her; How is it possi∣ble, that my Mistresse should not haue the happinesse to enioy such excellent good things as these? No, no, it shall not be long (by the grace of God) ere you two know one another, and be better acquainted, and enter into a strict league of friendship. O sweet Iesus! When I shall tell my Lady-Abbesse, what I haue seene, ô how will shee enuie my good fortune? What a longing desire will shee haue, till shee see that face of yours, and be made so happy as to enioy your good companie? By the life of her, that left me here behinde her, and as her soule is there, where those eternall tapers continually burne, let the pocks

consume my iaw-bones, if I be not a Bawd to these your loues, because I haue a great minde to bring you together, and that yee should dearely loue each o∣ther. I will not faile hereafter to visite you oftner, you are a pearle of that price, that I cannot choose but loue you, make much of you, and desire to serue you. After these words, and many other, full of ceremony and complement, she tooke her leaue, and went away with her gold. And from that time for∣ward, euery second or third day, shee made one errand or other thither, one while for gold; another, saying that she past that way, telling Bonifacio, that she should be guilty to her selfe of neglect, & that she should commit treason to her owne heart, if she should passe that way, and not performe a visit to that good Angell of his, being the onely Saint of her sexe, to whose shrine shee did owe all respect and reuerence. At other times, she would excuse her comming, by bringing her some rarity or other, and whilest shee was talking with her, goe disposing and preparing of her, that she would of her owne accord goe one day and make merry at the Monastery.

Now, when she had moulded things to her mind, and thought that this fine peece of gold was fit for the hammering, she tooke a walke thither on Munday morning, carrying along with her two pretty little baskets, the one hauing in it some Conserues, and the like toyes; the other, some fruits of that season, the first and the best that were to be found vpon their first comming. Which shee presented her withall, telling her, because they were fruits of their owne garden, and the first they had gathered, her Lady Abbesse thought they could not be better bestow'd on any, then her selfe. And that withall she had a double request vnto her; The first, that the next insuing Munday, being the feast of the glorious Saint Iohn Baptist, and the Sunday before it, their first Vespers, she would be pleased to doe her the fauour to stay those two daies with her in the Monasterie, doing penance there with her; which she might the more con∣ueniently doe, in regard that she had no occasion of businesse during those two Holy-dayes; and besides, the Nunnes, after they had ended their feasts, were amongst them-selues to represent a Comedy; And that the Abbesse would take no pleasure nor contentment in it, if she would not doe her this fauour, to come and see it acted; and that other principall Gentle-women, that were of kinne to the Nunnes, were likewise to come thither, and that they should goe all along together, bearing each other company: The other, that she might haue three pound of her best and finest gold, to make tufts and tassels for a rich cloath that was to be vsed before the Altar; desiring her, if it were possible, that shee might haue the choisest and the finest for that purpose, that was to be got. To this of the gold, Dorotea made answer, she could, and would doe that for her with a very good will; for this (quoth she) is in my power to performe; I could likewise be content to cumply with whatsoeuer my Lady Abbesse shall be plea∣sed to command me, but this is not in mine but my husbands hands. You know (Sister Sabina) that I am not Mistresse of my selfe, I am vnder anothers command, and therefore in this, you must aske my good-mans leaue; it is hee that can giue you an I, or a No, whether I shall goe or stay. To whose will I must, and euer shall conforme my selfe. This were fine in good faith (said then Sabina) if your husband should deny vs so small and so faire a request as this? Let me neuer thriue, if I goe out of doores these eight daies, vnlesse hee giue you leaue: Say your selfe, doth it stand with reason (to omit the mentioning of common ciuility, and good manners) that one onely request which my Mistris makes vnto you, being (besides the first that euer she made vnto you) so earnest a one, and so iust, that you should lose all respect towards her person and her kindnesse, as to deny her so sleight a courtesie, desiring (as shee doth her saluation) to inioy such a paradise as your selfe? Fie Sabina, hold thy peace (said Dorotea) be not so prophane, nor doe not flout your poore friend, for I am old. Old, (said Sabina) yes, yes, you bee very old indeed; Let mee die of

your disease. You might as well haue told me, that the Spring is the end of the yeare, and that Lent is Christmas. But let vs leaue off iesting; As old as you are, God grant your husband may long inioy you, and giue you the fruit of his blessings. And therefore without any more adoe, I pray grant our re∣quest; for I meane to goe away with this good bargaine, that my mistresse may con me thanke for it. O how much will she make of this pretty little Rogue? Bonifacio and Dorotea, fell a laughing to see her so pleasant; while hee (with a * 1.324 cheerefull countenance) not seeing the i 1.325 Snake that lay lurking in the grasse, nor the ambush that was laid for him, suspecting no harme, and the lesse, in regard of the great confidence that he had in his wife, said: Well followed in good faith; Now (by my life) Sabina hath pleaded hard in this cause, and hath handsomly bestirr'd her-selfe; shee must not be denyed for this once, especially being it is my Lady-Abbesses pleasure to haue it so. And therefore I prithee (sweet Heart) goe and recreate thy selfe there those two dayes, for I know thou wilt be well pleased there-with, and it shall be no small content∣ment to mee, because it shall content thee. And therefore (Sabina) you may tell her Ladyship that her will shall be fulfill'd as well in this, as in any thing else, wherein I may serue her. And when these Gentle-women that you speake of goe vnto the Monasterie, I pray so order the matter, that they may passe this way, and take my wife along with them. Sabina, being a well∣spoken woman, returned them thanks in excellent good language, vsing such sitting phrase as best suted with the accomplishment of her desire. Shee hy'de her home, so well contented, and so proud of this rich purchase that shee had made, that the steps shee set forward, seemed to goe backe againe, and that she should neuer come time enough to her Masters lodging. Her heart was ready to haue burst in her bodie, it was so ouer-swolne with ioy; and would (had it beene lawfull for her so to doe) haue found in her heart, to haue cryde it out at the high Crosse. A man might haue seene her mirth in her lookes, her blood boyled within her, and her eyes did seeme to dance in her face for very ioy; you would haue thought, that through them, and her mouth, shee would haue vttered the cause of this her (more then can be expressed) content. When shee came into the house, no ground could hold her, shee fell presently to plucking off her chapines, to vndoing of her mantle, flinging it with all the haste shee could ouer her head, leauing it trayling at her taile, and holding vp the fore-skirts in her hands, lest they might hinder her speed, shee runnes mee, as fast as her leggs would carry her (like one that had beene fraid out of her wits) into her Masters chamber, who at∣tended her comming. And out of meere haste, that shee might tell him all at once, all hung betweene her teeth and her tongue, that shee was not able to speake one ready word. Shee would one while be in the Actiue, another while in the Passiue: Well, or ill, as well as shee could, shee deliuer'd her message in that manner, that those eight dayes neuer had an end, shee in tel∣ling him of them, and he in asking her of them, a least a thousand times a∣peece ouer and ouer. Euery moment they returned to treat a-new of one and the same thing, re-iterating the same, I know not how many times ouer, and fell to make Comments thereupon, discoursing how it could be possible, that this businesse should take effect: It seemed vnto them, that that whereof they talked, had fully contented them, and gone for good payment, their be∣leefe neuer comming to an end, neuer being able to perswade them-selues, that the newes of so great a desired good, could be certaine, or that euer they should come to see so happy a day.

Dorotea and Sabina, being thus agreed vpon the point, that this businesse might be the more cleanely carryed, Claudio tooke order, that certaine women should be prouided and fitted vp, that were of his good acquaintance, and friends and well-wishers to his house, such as he might safely communicate any

secret vnto, to the end, that by their good care and diligence, they might helpe to bring this his purpose to passe.

Sunday (the appointed day) being come, some of them, apparrelling them-selues like married wiues, others, being in the habit of maydens, and others after the fashion of graue k 1.326 and matron-like Gentle-women, went along with Sabina to goe fetch Dorotea. They come to her house, they knocke at the doore, her husband comes forth, who staid at home looking for them: Who seeing such a worthy traine of women, opinionating them to be principall persons, presently call'd to his wife, that shee should make haste, and come downe, that the companie might not stay for her. Downe comes Dorotea, no lesse inno∣cent, then contented. All of them did very louingly salute her, bestowing many kinde words, and ceremonious complements vpon her. And her hus∣band, hauing consigned her ouer vnto them, they placed her in the midst be∣tweene them, and so with great ioy they set forward on their voyage. And as they were walking towards the Monasterie, one of them, that had a vayle on her head, and of more reuerend aspect and speech then the rest, makes a stop, and sodainely cryes out; Ay me, forgetfull wretch that I am, how hath it slipt our remembrance, that we forgot to goe for Don̄a Beatriz the new marryed Bride, who stayes at home expecting our comming, who also is inuited to the Nunnerie? Then another of them made answer, By the bones of my father, you say true. As God helpe me, I did no more thinke vpon her, then I remem∣ber the first l 1.327 smocke that was put on my backe. We can by no meanes goe without her, we must needs haue her along with vs, and therefore let vs turne downe here, for it is not much out of the way, and we shall be there by and by. Then one of those, which was to the rest, as the bell-weather, that goes before the flocke, ruffling betweene her legs a large sided kirtle, and hauing a Rosario hanging at her necke, which serued in steed of a bell, leads the way vnto them, * 1.328 whom all of them follow, till shee had brought them to Claudio his house. They call'd at the doore; A slaue, putting her head out at the window, askes, who was there, and what they would haue. One of them made answer; Runne in quickly, and tell your Mistresse, that shee would be pleased to make haste, and come downe, for we stay here for her. Shee made as if shee had gone in to deliuer her the message, and anon after comes forth againe with this an∣swer, That her Mistresse would intreat them to haue the patience to stay a little, till shee had but fastned a pinne or two to her head-dressing, and had put on her mantle, which would not be long a doing, desirng them in the meane while to come in, and rest them-selues in the Hall. Whereupon, they entred through a faire Court into a goodly spatious Hall, very well furnisht, where the rest of the women remained, onely two of them past forward with Doro∣tea, into a midling square roome, which was hung with cloath of siluer, and watchet damaske, with a bed sutable thereunto, full of imbossed worke of gold, the chaires, and cushions, and carpets corresponding with the rest. Ad∣ioyning close to the bed was a curious m 1.329 Estrado, where these three sate them downe, and had scarce warm'd their cushions, when the two, that were with her, began to complaine, and cry out; Good God, what does this new Bride Don̄a Beatriz meane to make vs stay here so long? Fie, what a tedious thing is this? I care not (sayes the one to the other) if I goe in, and see what shee is a doing, I dare pawne my life, shee is not yet out of her bed. I prithee, Sister, (if thou beest a good wench) goe with me, that we may know, when we shall get hence. Which word was no sooner spoken, but they both went presently out of the roome, leauing Dorotea all alone. In conclusion, they were all vanish•…•…d, and not any body liuing to be heard about the house.

When all was hush, Claudio comes in, and sitting downe vpon one of the cushions, that was next to Dorotea, he began to make her many faire offers, discouering vnto her the plot that he had laid to get her thither, excusing this

his manner of proceeding, with the great torments that for her sake hee endured. When shee heard him speake in this language, and now (too lat•…•…) perceiued how shee was betrayed; poore Dorotea was not a little troubled; for shee knew him by sight, and was not ignorant of his pretensions. Shee saw her-selfe taken in the trap, shee knew not what to doe, nor how to defend her-selfe, and therefore began with teares and prayers, intreating him with all the Rhetoricke those two good Orators could vse, that he would not spot her ho∣nour, nor offer her husband that wrong, by committing so grieuous a sinne, and so heynous an offence against God. But all would not serue the turne. To cry out, was to no purpose; for there was no body there to take her part. But say her sh•…•…ikes might haue disturbed Claudio, and haue drawne the people in the street to come in, whosoeuer should haue found her there, would questi∣onlesse haue condemned her for her comming thither, giuing no credit to this tricke that was put vpon her, though shee should haue sworne out her heart to the contrary. Shee defended her-selfe (poore soule) as well as shee could; but Claudio cou•…•…ting her one while with many faire and kinde words, and when they would not preuaile, breaking forth another while into actions of violence, with a great deale of resistance, and against her will, he pluckt from her by force such fruits as he could reach to, but not those that he desired; entertayning him-selfe, and tyring out her, in this his rude wrestling with her. But in the end, when shee saw that shee could no longer hold out against him, and that her breath and strength did both faile her, and that the battaile would be lost on her side, Claudio still getting more and more ground vpon her person, shee yeelded vp the Fort vnto him, for want of succours in conuenient time, hauing fought it out (as they say) to the last man, and keeping out the enemies as long as shee could. They two, were all alone; the doore fást lockt; the tearme long, (no lesse then two dayes) Claudio, his friends about him, she a lone-woman; he strong, and shee weake; and none can doe more then they can doe. This might haue very well beene said to haue beene a sportfull con∣tention, and an amorous combat, befitting S. Iohns feast, if the heauen of their pastime had not beene ouer-cast with a sodaine and vnexpected cloud. They fared daintily, did dine, sup, and sleepe together. But this their pleasure lasted but a while, short was their content, and their rest sodainely and vn∣expectedly * 1.330 interrupted. For the n 1.331 Deuill neuer yet made that pye, where∣of him-selfe did not eat the better part. It is a vsuall thing with him, when he maketh any such kinde of meeting, to set vp a tent, or pauillion, inui∣ting them to goe into it, that there they may couer, and hide them-selues, and none may know of their doings, laying a charge of secrecie and silence on their present actions; but afterwards, w•…•…en they are closely shut vp, and kept hid from the open eye of the world, in this their greatest, and ill-conceiued securitie, he sets the doores wid•…•… open, 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and throwes these pauillions downe to the ground, manifesting in publike, thei•…•… concealed sinnes; and beating vp his drumme, and ringing out his Alarum-bell, he calls the people together, that they may come and see what they are a doing, leauing them ashamed and sad, making him-selfe very merry to see them thus caught in his snare, and laughing and flouting at them, he mak•…•…s him-selfe a Holy-day in Hell, ioying and triumphing in his new-gotten victorie. Who would once haue thought, that so subtle an inuention as this was, so well ordered, and in so short a time, and by so strange a meanes brought about, should come to be dis∣couered? Who, from such happy beginnings, and meanes, would euer haue expected such adue•…•…se, and Tragicall ends? But I say ill, and therefore cor∣rect my selfe: For we could looke for no other, considering the dance, and who he was that led it; and heauen cannot but openly •…•…unish such wicked∣nesse, and violence. And tho•…•…gh the punishment was not eq•…•…all to the of∣fence, yet the blow was such that was giuen them, that thereby euery good

Discoursist might come to the knowledge of the fault, and repent him-selfe thereof.

Now whilest they were thus in their mirth and iollitie, all that day passed so without account, and order, that there was no heed taken of any thing: The seruants in their quarter, fill'd their bellies, tooke away the wrinckles from off their guts, by glutting them-selues full, and pulling the faucets out of the hogs-heads, they did eat and drinke so lustily, that they were faine at last to creepe to their beds, as a Cat doth o 1.332 vp a wall, vpon all foure; or as a ship-boy * 1.333 vp to the top of the maste; leauing the chimney full of fire, and a great deale of dry wood standing by it; The fire takes me hold of the brands, and other dry clefts, and they being tinded, did communicate their flames to their fel∣lowes that stood by them, so that towards mid-night, all that quarter of the house was burnt, and not one bodie in all the house that did perceiue it, so fast were they all a-sleepe. It was the Vespers of S. Iohn, and that night the Teni∣ente (to see good order) vseth to round the Towne, and by the great splendor that the flames did cast a farre off, he saw what a light it gaue, and suspected (which was so indeed) that some house was on fire. And so following the clearenesse of this light, the brightnesse thereof brought them to Claudio his house. They call'd out aloud, and knockt hard at the gate; for the house was great, and the people that were within, some were weary, some drunke, and others burnt, but none that did answer. There was a great noyse and out-cry amongst the neighbours, euery one seeking to preuent the threatned danger, and to prouide as well as they could to saue their goods and persons, many people of all sorts, and all parts of the Citie, came hastning and running thi∣ther, who by maine force brake downe the gate, and laid it leuell with the ground, and entred the house, supposing all those that were in it, to haue beene consumed with the fire, or at least choaked and stifled with the smoake, because they could see no body stirring in it. The noyse and clamour was such, that Claudio awak'd, and startled with this so great a rumour, and confu∣sed a sound, not knowing what the matter might be, hastning with his sword in his hand, (he and Dorotea being both naked) he opened his chamber-doore, and when he saw the fire, he returned backe, that he might throw some thing vpon him, and saue him-selfe by flight. The Teniente thought that the people that were without, had broke open that doore, that they might rifle the roome; hasting thither with all diligence, that he might saue it from the spoyle and ransacking of the more vnruly route, hee found these two louers running about the chamber, from one corner to another, to seeke out their cloathes, and hauing them in their hands, neither of them had their owne, interchanging them, through their more haste, then good speed. Now you may imagine in what taking they were, and what they might thinke, seeing them-selues thus naked, the house full of people, and her greatest enemie, the Teniente; who had thus taken them napping. But that we may come to him, who streight way knew Dorotea; whereat he was so amazed, that of all those three, you could not tell for your life, which of them was most astonied. For the Teniente, had any body told him of such a thing, he would neuer haue beene perswaded to beleeue it; and though he had now his owne eyes to be his witnesses, yet did he seeme to doubt of it. So troubled were his thoughts, so his heart inflamed with iealou∣sies, and disdaynes, so mad and desperately bent, that to be reuenged on them both, without any farther consideration, he commanded them to be carried away to prison; his spleene being more against Dorotea, then Claudio, for that shee had reiected him, and admitted of another, and therefore was re∣solued to doe her a disgrace, and to defame her all that he could, deuising with him-selfe, how he might likewise picke an occasion to commit her hus∣band. For he thought it a thing impossible, that this should be done without

her husbands priuitie, and that he had beene witting and consenting to this businesse, and had giuen his wife leaue to bestow a nights lodging vpon this young Gallant, vpon some particular interest, that might make much for his profit. Nor is it so strange, that the Teniente should take this indirect course: For a Loue-passion, or passionate fit of Loue, blindes the vnderstanding, and makes the minde of man turne cruell and tyrannicall. They carryed her away, her face being couered ouer with her mantle, ha∣uing giuen expresse order, that shee should not be seene, or made knowne to any, till information should be made against her. And Claudio, he like∣wise was committed. And howbeit he had vsed all the meanes he could, to hinder this his harsh proceeding, alledging in excuse the great and many harmes that might happen thereupon, yet neither reasons, intreaties, nor all-perswading Crownes, could allay the rage of this incensed Iudge, so bigg was his heart swolne with malice and reuenge. They remained in prison, and the Iudge fomed at the mouth, till the fire was asswaged, and quite put out; but that of his heart did burne apace. It was now past mid∣night, and he had endured a great deale of trouble, but much more an∣ger and choller. He got him to bed, and would haue slept if he could; but in him was that prouerbe verified, which saith, p 1.334 Assi tengays el suen̄o: * 1.335 So let him sleepe, that troubles another mans rest. He could not sleepe in quiet, nor is it to be beleeued, that he should; but rather it is to be supposed, and true it was, that transported with rage, his head was plotting of reuenge, dressing this his rancorous dish of poyson a thousand seuerall wayes, that they might not escape his hands, at least not come off, with the sauing of their honour. But hee reckoned without his q 1.336 Hoste. For his feet were scarce warme in his bed, when Dorotea was out of his reach. Sabina lay in * 1.337 an inner chamber next vnto her Masters, to the end, that if he should need any thing in the night, shee might be ready at hand, when-soeuer he should call. And for that shee had diligently listned to all that had passed, shee pre∣sently bethought her-selfe of a remedie for this disease. For your women, vpon the sodaine, are more quicke, and nimble witted, then your men; nor must you giue them leaue to aduise any thing long with them-selues, if you meane to haue it succeed well and happily. Shee takes me out of her lodging a good fat Capon, which was left vntoucht at supper, and a good peece of a gammon of bacon, which being of a wilde Bore, was held to be a dainty dish, a good flagon of rich wine, a loafe or two of bread, and money in her purse, and clapping a bed, sheets, and a couerlet on her head, and bearing a little basket, wherein shee had put her commodities, vpon her arme, away shee trugs along to the prison. Shee intreated the Iaylour, that he would giue her leaue to carry in that her bed and supper for one of her Masters maydes, who because shee had show'd her-selfe too slow and negligent, vpon so vrgent an occasion, in bringing a bucket to draw water for the quenching of the fire, the Teniente in his heat had committed her to prison. With this slight excuse, and foure Royals of foure, which shee clapt in his hand, he opens the doore, and lets her in, making him a hundred cursies; howbeit by reason of the luggage which shee had on her head, he could not come to see her face. In this manner, in shee goes to Dorotea, whom shee found rather dead then ali•…•…e: They two stood talking alone together, for the rest of the women-prisoners were all asleepe, and taking hold on this so faire an opportunitie, it so fell out, that Dorotea was transformed into Sabina, by putting on a greene kirtle that shee wore, who called to the Porter, that kept the prison doore, and giuing him the supper, that was prouided for that end, told him, that the may de would neither eat any meat, nor come in any bed, vntill shee were released. Hee was so ioyed therewith, that he thought he had seene the heauens opened, and when he had tasted of the bacon, and found what a tarte yet pleasant relish it had with

it, he takes the flagon of wine in his hands, and giues it a good swigg, reseruing the remainder against the next day. Whilest the Porter was making him-selfe merry with his good cheere, Dorotea heaues vp the bed vpon her head, and so goes out of the prison, leauing Sabina there in her place, and with those two women that bare her company the day before, and staid waiting for her com∣ming forth, shee was conducted by them backe againe to Claudio his house, where shee continued till the next morning, and then accompanied with them, and some other women, shee returned home to her owne house, faining that shee was not halfe well, and therefore made the speedyer returne. The Teniente growing now proud vpon the matter, thinking the next morning, which was Tuesday, to execute this his reuenge, Claudio in the meane while was not wan∣ting, (being aduised before hand that his Mistresse was now out of his danger, and safely arriued at her wished hauen) intreated a Gentleman, a friend of his, to take the paines to goe and speake with the r 1.338 Assistente of Sevill, and to craue so much lawfull fauour of him, that he would be pleased to come in person to the Court, and free him of that iniurie and wrong, which was so vniustly done vn∣to him. The Teniente likewise, when he was going to sit downe to dinner in his owne house, going aside to the window, and looking with a deuilish iealou∣sie on those of Dorotea, he had her presently in his eye, and knew it was shee, and might plainely perceiue, how her husband and shee sate very louingly to∣gether eating of their dinner. He was almost beside him-selfe, and ready to runne mad, wondring with him-selfe, how this might be. Hereupon, he pre∣sently dispatches one away to the prison, to know who had freed the woman, that he had sent thither ouer night. Answer was made; that shee was there. Then did he beat his feet against the ground, and stampt for despight and an∣ger, and did verily perswade him-selfe, that he was not well in his wits, vnlesse the other had beene a dreame. So that day past on, till the next came, when (at the accustomed houre) comes me thither the Assistente him-selfe in person at∣tended with his two Tenientes, and when he was sate in the seat of Iustice, he will'd that Claudio should be called forth, & the woman which was imprisoned with him. Who, when they were brought before him, and had (according to their owne confession, as also the Keepers) approu'd themselues to be the same, there was no man there but knew Sabina was his slaue, and so finding nothing to be said against them, they were set at libertie. Yet were they not so freed, but that Claudio paid soundly for it; for when he came home, he found the greatest part of his house, and his goods burnt, and together with them a sister of his, one of those honest ones, that accompanied Dorotea from her house, who was found dead in the same bed with his Despensero, besides some three other of his seruants. This affront to his honour (for that it was generally published throughout the whole Citie) did so afflict his minde, and did in that manner oppresse his heart, that with the strong apprehension thereof hee fell grieuously sicke. And not desiring his health, that hee might take any worldly comfort in it, but onely that hee might liue to doe penance for this heynous sinne that hee had committed, by cor∣rupting so good a creature, hee recouered of his sicknesse, and without making any one acquainted therewith, hee retyred him-selfe to the top of a mountaine in a desert place, where in a holy course of life hee en∣ded his dayes, betaking him-selfe to the Religious Order of Saint Fran∣cis. Dorotea remayned with her husband in the same peace and loue as before, and the Teniente, like a filthy fellow as he was, without Doblones, for ought that they gaue him; and without reuenge, for ought that hee could take of them. And Bonifacio (honest man) vntoucht in his honour. For Sabina, and most of them that knew the affront that was done him, dyed within a few dayes after. So iust is God in all his workes, and so well doth he know how to punish those wrongs, that are offered to the innocent.

With this Storie, and other entertainments, to passe away the time, we were brought by a faire winde to Spaine, which I had not a little longed for, for hauing lost our Anchors, our Ordnance, our Oares, our Helme carryed away, our sailes rent, and all our tackling torne, hauing nothing left which the Sea had not swallowed vp, onely I was left aliue, who ought more iustly to haue perished. We did dis-imbarke in Barcelona, where telling my friend Captaine Favelo, that I had made a vow, while we were in this storme, that I would not stay three nights in any part of Spaine, till I should come to Sevill, and visit the Image of our Lady del Valle, to whom I had offered vp my de∣uotions, and made a certaine promise to consecrate some thing vnto her, if I should be so happy as to escape that tempest. It grieu'd him to the very soule, that he should lose my companie, but I could not doe otherwise; for I feared lest they of Genoa would come in pursuit of me in some Skiffe, or the like vessell. I bought three beasts for to carry my selfe and my trunkes, I entertained a seruant, and giuing out, that I was to goe my iourney (no man know∣ing the contrary) we tooke our leaue for euer.

The end of the second Booke of the second Part of Guzman de Alfarache.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Phocion, and his pouertie.
• * 1.2

  Dionyfius the Tyrant.
• * 1.3

  Phocions cen∣sure of Diony∣sius.
• * 1.4

  Friends are the greatest treasure.
• * 1.5

  How friend▪ are often got, and kept.
• * 1.6

  He that hath friends, hath all things.
• * 1.7

  Friends better 〈◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊〉 or •…•…thers.
• * 1.8

  True friends what they are like.
• * 1.9

  How to make choise of our friends.
• * 1.10

  Bookes, true friends.
• * 1.11

  One only friend. And what that friend is.
• * 1.12

  A commendation of the Earth, and i•…•… faithfull loue, and true friend∣ship.
• * 1.13

  The greatest mi∣serie that can be∣fall man in this life.
• * 1.14

  A feigned friend, compared to an Ecle.
• a 1.15

  Es tr•…•…ste hu∣•…•…ped, el de por fuerça.
• * 1.16

  Prouerbe
• * 1.17

  Prouerbe.
• b 1.18

  Facil cosa es, el ver; y mas lo es, el hablar; pero muy difi∣cultoso es pro∣veer. - No co∣nocen todos los, que miran, m•…•…los que hab∣lan, hazen. Manymake reck∣ning of their friend, no longer then they haue need of him. And when he can serue his turne no longer, he turnes him off.
• * 1.19

  Guzman leaues Siena, and goes to Florence.
• * 1.20

  Guzman meets with Sayavedra.
• * 1.21

  Curtesies are to be returned with aduantage.
• * 1.22

  Sayavedra asks Guzman for∣giuenesse.
• * 1.23

  Guzman enter∣taines Sayave∣dra for his ser∣uant.
• * 1.24

  Better to haue a •…•…naue, then a fo•…•…c, to ones seruant.
• * 1.25

  Prouerbe.
• c 1.26

  Tract la barba 〈◊〉〈◊〉 el hom∣bro Viv•…•… reca∣tado, v con re∣•…•…e o, como ha∣zen los que •…•…e∣nen euenugos, que van bolvi∣endo el rostro, à vn lado, y a o ro. de onde, naçio el re•…•…n. Couarr. verb. Barba.
• * 1.27

  Sayavedra dis∣courses of F•…•…o∣rence.
• * 1.28

  Leo 3. Pope.
• * 1.29

  C•…•…olus Mag∣nus Emperor. Clem•…•… 7. Pope. Charles 5. Em∣peror.
• * 1.30

  Alessandro de Medici.
• * 1.31

  Cosimo, great Duke of Tus∣canie.
• * 1.32

  Francesco 2. Duke of Flo∣rence. Ferdinando 3. •…•…eat Duke.
• * 1.33

  The beauty of Florence.
• b 1.34

  Zimborio, es el hucco del cha∣pitel.
• c 1.35

  A high Arche, or round vault of any high Church or sleeple. The Cupuls of Florence what a curious peece of building it is.
• d 1.36

  Diame•…•…o, of the Greeke word 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉. Linea diemti∣ens, seu per me∣dium secane, re∣cta in longitu∣dine ducta. It is a Geometri∣call terme. The Annoncits of Florence, wonderfull worth the seeing.
• * 1.37

  Guzman scoffes at the rogues and beggars in Flo∣rence.
• * 1.38

  Guzman spies one of his old acquaintance amongst the beg∣gars in Flo∣rence.
• * 1.39

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.40

  Why beggars can∣not giue ouer their lewd course of life.
• * 1.41

  A notable tale of a roguish wench.
• e 1.42

  No ay hierr•…•… tan mal•…•…, que no puede do∣rarse. Todo lo cubre, y tapa el oro.
• * 1.43

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.44

  The Statua of Cosimo 1. great Duke of Tusca∣nie.
• * 1.45

  S. Iohn Baptists Church in Flo∣rence.
• * 1.46

  The Churches, and c•…•…nts in Florence.
• * 1.47

  The Dukes Pa∣lace.
• * 1.48

  The circuit of Florence.
• * 1.49

  Florence a friend to stran∣gers.
• * 1.50

  The good gouern∣ment in Flo∣r•…•…e.
• * 1.51

  Enuie, and Flat∣terie, two great Courtiers.
• * 1.52

  Guzman sells his horse, and breaks his fast with his old shooes.
• * 1.53

  Guzman loth to leaue Florence.
• * 1.54

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.55

  The sports and pastimes that are vsed in Flo∣rence.
• * 1.56

  Prouerbe.
• f 1.57

  Sino beuo en la taberna, huel∣gome en ella. Deue ser entre∣tenimiento ver en la tabe•…•…na vnas mona tri∣stes, y ocras ale∣gres, ver cantar vnos, y llorar ocros; y todos con muy poca firmeza en los pies, y gran mo∣dorra en la ca∣beça. Covarr. verb. Taberna.
• * 1.58

  The Authors pro∣testation,
• * 1.59

  Guzman begins to consider with himselfe.
• g 1.60

  Apretado se halla vn cora∣çon, quando nolo està la bolsa. Money cheeres •…•…ns heart.
• * 1.61

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.62

  He that is vsed to command, will hardly be brought to obey.
• * 1.63

  Want, and hone∣sty, can hardly stand together.
• * 1.64

  A good discourse of Guzmans.
• * 1.65

  Youth, what a kind of thing it is.
• * 1.66

  Instruction, ne∣cessary for youth.
• * 1.67

  This same but, or Si non, is the cause of much harme.
• * 1.68

  If we will be sa∣ued, our good in∣tentions, must be seconded by good actions.
• * 1.69

  Enuy, and flatte∣ry, hurtfull to a Commonwealth.
• * 1.70

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.71

  Sayavedras counsell to Guz∣man for the re∣couery of his stol•…•…e goods.
• * 1.72

  Guzman minds to leaue Flo∣rence, and to goe to Bologna.
• * 1.73

  Guzman, and Sayavedra being come to Bolo∣gna, are puzled, not well know∣ing what course to take.
• f 1.74

  Guzman finds Alexandro with his cloathes on his backe, that he had stolne from him.
• g 1.75

  An ill custome, that is too much vsed in many great Cities in the world. Espe∣cially in Madrid, where to preuent this Church-courting, the men are to goe in and out at one doore, and the women at ano∣ther.
• * 1.76

  Prouerbe.
• h 1.77

  The Spanish phrase is, Ha∣blaua por la mano. That is, he talkt with his band. Now to talke with the band, is an anci∣ent fashion of speaking, by for∣ming letters, and by putting your fingers in diuers and sundry po∣stures, whereby a man makes his mind knowne. Couar•…•… Verb: Mano. Guzman in a great rage; and why?
• * 1.78

  Prouerbe.
• i 1.79

  Mas facil co∣brar, que pa∣gar.
• * 1.80

  Prouerbe.
• k 1.81

  The Spanish prouerb is, Mas valia paxaro en mano, que Buey volando. Better a bird in hand, then a Vulture flying. Signifying there∣by, That what a man hath safe and sure in his power, is much better then the vncertaine hopes of great matters, by reason of those many accidents that may inter∣happen. Couarr Verb: Bueytre.
• l 1.82

  De menor dan̄o mal con∣çierto que buen pleyto. The tyranny of great persons.
• * 1.83

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.84

  Truthes enemies.
• * 1.85

  What abales the •…•…dge of Iustice?
• m 1.86

  Pagan los iustos, por pec∣cadotes.
• * 1.87

  Prouerbe.
• n 1.88

  Mucho dan̄a, el mucho di∣nero.
• * 1.89

  A short tale of an Alcalde.
• * 1.90

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.91

  Co•…•…nudo, y apalcado, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 prouerbially spoken o•…•… those, who b•…•…es t•…•…e wrong they haue receiued are themselues con∣dem•…•…d 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉. Covarr. ve•…•…b. Apaleado.
• * 1.92

  Guzman clapt in prison.
• * 1.93

  Little reckning made of the poore.
• p 1.94

  The Spanish word is, Ripio. Cerca de los canteros, son las piedras me∣nudas que sal∣tan de las pieças que van labran∣do. o otto ge∣nero de piedras menudas, para rehinchir las paredes. bezi∣mo, meter vno mucho ripio, quanden la me∣teria que va tra∣tando, ingiere algunas cosas friuolas, à seme∣jança del que haze paredes, que poniendo en las dos hazes piedras gran∣des, todo lo en de medio hin∣che deste cas∣caxo y ripio. Covarr. verb. Ripio.
• q 1.95

  Todo es ma∣tas, y por rozar. id est, Todo es trabajoso, y difficultoso. Ib. verb. Rozar.
• * 1.96

  God exalts the humble, and humbles the proud.
• a 1.97

  Vare, quasi Virga.
• * 1.98

  No •…•…od comes of •…•…ng to Law.
• * 1.99

  The nature of Law-sutes.
• * 1.100

  Law-sutes, for whom they are fittest.
• b 1.101

  No sonbuenas burlas, l•…•… que salen à la cara.
• * 1.102

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.103

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.104

  Good counsell, for those that goe to Law.
• * 1.105

  A Iudge on an ill condition, and a worse conscience.
• * 1.106

  Wise is that man that auoides go∣ing to Law. Iniuries to be borne withall.
• c 1.107

  Saltaste de la sarten al fuego.
• * 1.108

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.109

  Your Tauer∣neros in Spaine, are not of that credit as your Vintners with vs, being for the most part poore base rogues Into whose Tauernes, no man of fashion will come, as holding it to be a discre∣dit so to doe. They haue but one poore lower roome, and dresse no meate.
• * 1.110

  Alguazils are to be auoided.
• * 1.111

  What kinde of fellowes they be.
• * 1.112

  A Tale of an Al∣guazil of Gra∣nada.
• e 1.113

  Corchete, quasi curua∣c•…•…ete, which signifies a claspe, that fastens a garment, and shuts it close. And by allusio•…•…, those Ministers of Iustice, which hang about a man, and hale him to prison, are called Cor∣chetes, because of their taking hold like hooke•…•…. They are the same with your Sergeants yeomen.
• * 1.114

  The wicked con∣ditions of these kinde of men.
• * 1.115

  Prisons, and their keepers, what kind of things they be.
• * 1.116

  The hard con∣dition of priso∣ners.
• * 1.117

  Iudges doe a great fauour, if they doe thee Iustice.
• f 1.118

  Saualo. A knowne fish, and of a very good re∣lish. And may be cal'd quasi Sapalo, à Sapo∣re. In Latine they call it A∣lopa, tri•…•…a, clu∣pea. It vsually dies, when it comes into fresh water. Vid. Ron∣delecius de Pi∣scibus, lib. 7. cap. 15.
• * 1.119

  He that hath to d•…•… with Law∣y•…•…, must dance attendance.
• g 1.120

  The Bookes of the Ciuill Law, which being in many huge Vo∣lumes, and scat∣tered peeces, Iu∣stinian the Em∣peror caused to be digested into a lesser number, and better forme; whence they were called Digests.
• * 1.121

  Your ordinary Iudge, what manner of fellow he is.
• * 1.122

  Your superior Iudge, what manner of man he is
• * 1.123

  A horrible sen∣tence of a Iudge of Sevill.
• * 1.124

  The answer of a country Clowne, to an ignorant Painter.
• * 1.125

  It is a good thing in any man, to neglect 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉.
• * 1.126

  The Spaniards hated in all pla∣ces, and of all persons.
• * 1.127

  The inconueni∣ences that befall Trauellers.
• * 1.128

  Good counsell for those that will liue 〈◊〉〈◊〉 quiet.
• * 1.129

  Guzman comes heauy and me∣lancholy out of prison.
• * 1.130

  The nature and condition of those that stand by, looking vpon Gamesters.
• * 1.131

  Needlesse curio∣sitie.
• * 1.132

  Men ought not to prie into other mens actions.
• * 1.133

  Profitable coun∣sell for curious obseruers of other mens faults.
• * 1.134

  M•…•…n that looke vpon Gamesters must 〈◊〉〈◊〉 fr•…•… passion.
• * 1.135

  The effects of game, and game∣sters.
• * 1.136

  Gaming, is vsed for two causes.
• a 1.137

  The Court-Cards are called in Spaine, Rey, Cauallo, y So∣ta. The first is the King, as with vs; The second signifies a Knight, which is all one with our Queene; And the third a Sol∣dier, which is the same with our Knaue.
• * 1.138

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 gamesters desire to win.
• * 1.139

  Money, hard to be got.
• * 1.140

  Losers grow im∣partent.
• * 1.141

  Guzman means to venture ad his money at play, and to make himselfe either a man, or a mouse.
• * 1.142

  Sayavedra of∣fers to discouer to Guzman the others games.
• * 1.143

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.144

  Masters must keepe a decorum with their ser∣uants.
• * 1.145

  Guzmans and Sayavedras drift.
• * 1.146

  The cheating tricks that are vs'din gaming.
• * 1.147

  The condition of feare, and feare∣full men.
• * 1.148

  All men, spotted w•…•… one Vice, or other.
• * 1.149

  Guzmans craf∣•…•…ie dealing.
• a 1.150

  Donde quie∣ra, se amasa buen pan.
• * 1.151

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.152

  Euery man would faine liue.
• * 1.153

  All seeke to make their best aduan∣tage.
• * 1.154

  A short tale.
• * 1.155

  The sayin•…•… of a Negro.
• * 1.156

  Guzman pur∣poses to prouide for a deare yeare, and showe how it may be done.
• * 1.157

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.158

  Prouerbe.
• c 1.159

  Todo los me∣ses de a treynta dias.
• d 1.160

  A escuras to dos los gatos, negros.
• * 1.161

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.162

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.163

  Free and plaine dealing, holds friends together.
• * 1.164

  Sayavedra di∣scourseth to Guzman of his course of life.
• d 1.165

  The Spanish p•…•…rase is; Ofi∣cial de la carda. •…•…or trasl•…•…çion dezimos carcar à vno, quando le dan alguna fraterna, y es tratado aspera∣mentè Covarr. verb. Card•…•….
• a 1.166

  Montera, is a cap made of stuffe with little or no brims, to weare for ease within doores•…•… your Clownes haue them of cloath.
• * 1.167

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.168

  Noble minds are euer liberall.
• * 1.169

  Prouerbe.
• e 1.170

  Luchar a bra∣ço partido es proceder y gu almenté sin ventaja de vno à otro. Covarr. verb. Braço.
• * 1.171

  Prouerbe.
• f 1.172

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 à senta•…•… à la mesa con sus manos lavad 〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…zese d•…•…l qu•…•… no •…•…a trabaj•…•…do como los demas, y à la hora de co∣mer, no havi∣endo en zusia∣do sus manos, se viene con los demas à la mesa, y come de mogollon. Covarr. verb. Lavar.
• * 1.173

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.174

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.175

  Sayavedras stealing of a Kirtle.
• * 1.176

  Datario, a great office in Rome, as also in other places.
• * 1.177

  Sayavedras theft at the Con∣stables house.
• h 1.178

  Cientos; a witty game at Cards, much vsed in Spaine.
• i 1.179

  Mascar a dos carrillos. i. Ha∣zerse à amba•…•… partes contra∣rias con dissi∣mulaçion. Covarr. verb. Mascar.
• * 1.180

  Prouerbe.
• k 1.181

  Vna mano lava la otra, y entrambas la cara.
• * 1.182

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.183

  Prouerbe.
• l 1.184

  Quieren el pan, y las ma∣seras.
• m 1.185

  Con las ma∣nos en el seno.
• * 1.186

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.187

  Prouerbe.
• n 1.188

  Deromavan el poleo, sayes the Spanish phrase. Lat: pulegium. Eng. penny royall. Quae herba ex∣•…•…tat oues ad balatum.
• * 1.189

  Sayavedra's stealing of shirts.
• * 1.190

  A short tale of a drunkard.
• * 1.191

  Prouerbe.
• o 1.192

  Cabeça de Lobo. That is, the occasion that a man takes to benefit himselfe. As he that kils a Wolfe, and car∣ries the head to the Villages thereabout, recei∣uing something of euery one by way of gratification, for the good •…•…ee hath done in kil∣ling so dangerous and hurtfull a Beast. Couarr. Verb. Cabeça.
• * 1.193

  Monie make: man to bee estee∣med. Men sooner see other mens faults then their owne. The sweetnesse and sowrenesse of warre.
• a 1.194

  Dixese Cen∣tinela, à Sc•…•…∣tillando. Por∣que ha de estar con los ojos a∣•…•…ieros, y viuos, como çentellas. Otros dizen, que esta cor∣rompido el vo∣cablo de çen∣tinela, à senti∣endo. Por la vi∣ueza que ha de teneren todos los sentidos; especialmentè en la vista, y •…•…loydo. Centinela per∣dida, is hee that is put out of a Castle, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 out of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Campe into the open field, where in case of necessi∣ty, be cannot bee conueniently re∣lieued: and so be must stand to his aduenture. The French stile him, Centinelle per∣duë. Covarr. Verb. Centine∣l•…•….
• * 1.195

  Thieuing is a trade, that is full of trouble.
• b 1.196

  Termes of Art amongst theeues and rogues. Ger∣mania, elac∣cento en la pe∣nultima, es el lenguage de la rufianesca; di∣cho assi; ò por∣que no los en∣tendemos, ò por la hermandad que entre sitie∣nen. A canting kind of language. Also taken for a fraternitie, or brotherhood amongst theeues. Covarr. verb. Germania. A tale of a Coun∣try Alcalde.
• c 1.197

  The Spanish word is; Catedra de prima. Valetanto, como silla pu•…•…sta en alto, qual es la de los Maestros que leen; con obligaçion de leer à tiempo senalado, &c. Covarr. verb. Catedra.
• d 1.198

  Almonaçi de Curita, is seated betwixt 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and Zorita. It is an Arabicke word corrupted, of Almunasi, which signifies a place of obliuion: seeming to haue its root, from the Hebrew word nasas, obliuisci. And in that Towne there is wine of that strength and goodnesse, that Trauellers set their iourneyes so, as they may lodge there at night, where some of them forget themselues, like Vlysses souldiers, before they get thence. Otros dizen, que vale tanto como, hu•…•…rta del Rey. Vid. Covarr. pag. 56.
• * 1.199

  A tale of three country fellowes.
• e 1.200

  There is also (which the Iu∣tice bestowes on rogues) jubon de açotes: porque se los ajustan alas espaldas. Co∣varr. 492.
• f 1.201

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.202

  Practice, a great matter.
• * 1.203

  Guzman comes to Milan.
• * 1.204

  The nature of suspition and iealousie.
• * 1.205

  Aguilera, a fa∣mous theefe.
• f 1.206

  The Spanish phrase is: y me diesse vn cabe, que pas∣sasse la raya. Cabe en el ju∣ego de la argol∣la, es la distan∣çia que ay de vna, à otro bo∣la, que para ser∣lo, porlo menos ha decaber en medio la paleta, sin tocar anin∣guna de los dos, y de ayui tomo el nombre:y ca∣be de paleta es cl que esta tan junto, que de v∣na bola à otra, no aymas tierra ò suelo, del que puede tomar la paleta tendida en medio, y er∣rarle, es de ruy∣nes jugad•…•…res. y paraser cabe, ha de hazer que la bola de 〈◊〉〈◊〉 contrario, toca∣da con el golp•…•… de la suya, passe de la raya del juego, y vale dos piedras, ò pedra∣das. This Argolla, is an ordinarie play in Spaine. Co•…•…arr. verb. Cabe. 161.
• g 1.207

  Tortusque per her•…•…, Cresceret in ventr•…•… cucu∣mis. Virgil. 4. Georg.
• h 1.208

  Si•…•…e tune los ojos •…•…n la puerta.
• i 1.209

  N•…•… me fal∣t•…•… l•…•…s m•…•… de la ru•…•…a. Gu•…•… falls 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the r•…•…bbing of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Milan.
• * 1.210

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.211

  Prouerbe.
• k 1.212

  The Spanish word is, Cala∣fate: That is to say; El que con maço y escoplo apriet a las junturas de∣las tablas, de modo que no pueda calarlo el agua. It seems to be a Flemish word. Beca∣nus in his fourth booke Herma∣the•…•…ae, pag. 74. saith thus: Cal∣uatem, esse idé, qu•…•… vltimam manum navi∣bus imponere, & efficere, ne aquam per ri∣mas vllas ad∣mittant. quod tamen vorbum, per excellentiā navibus tribui∣tur; cum alio∣quin ad quaevis vasa integra reddenda spe∣ctet, vbi ratio ipsius requirat. &c. But by Becanus leaue, how soeuer he would fetch this word from the Flemings; I must be so bold as to affirme, that it is d•…•…riued from the Hebrew word, Caphar bituminare. And from thence, Cafatar, and Calafatar, by in∣terposing the let∣terd, whence it comes to be Ca∣lafare. Covar•…•…. p. 172.
• l 1.213

  The Spanish word 〈◊〉〈◊〉, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that is; When the 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 vpon 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 an•…•… by 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 them afterward•…•… at 〈◊〉〈◊〉 rates. M•…•…a, is like∣wise, when a man b•…•…ye as •…•…for said, an•…•… sells cheape. They that are in wa•…•…m for to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 some debt, •…•…e thes•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as. Some de•…•…e •…•…t from t•…•…e He •…•…rew word hater, fo∣dere. Others say, Mohatra, qua•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉, from Mota•…•…, to me •…•…e, or a•…•…de. This ill manner of buying and 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 forbid by th•…•… •…•…wes of Spaine, and is se•…•…erely 〈◊〉〈◊〉, being 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 29. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 4. lib. 3. de la nueua recopil. and Ley•…•… 22. tit. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. lib. 5. Co∣varr•…•… pag. 552.
• m 1.214

  Gato, is not onely a •…•…at, but is also taken for a purse full of money, which is made of a Cats skin. To a coue∣tous rich miser t•…•…ey vse to say; Ata el gato. Covarr. verb. Gato.
• n 1.215

  En h•…•…, y en paz. Como si dixera, congu∣sto de todos. Covarr. verb. Haz pag. 463.
• o 1.216

  Borrador, el paper donde 〈◊〉〈◊〉 se 〈◊〉〈◊〉 o dibuxa 〈◊〉〈◊〉; y dixo•…•… assi, pot∣que •…•…ndan∣do, le •…•…n qui∣tando, y poni∣endo, •…•…assise borra.
• * 1.217

  A 〈◊〉〈◊〉 tale of an Asse that made his Will.
• * 1.218

  The Asses Lega∣cics.
• * 1.219

  True 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a∣mongst thievs.
• * 1.220

  Of 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.221

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.222

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 cun∣ning plot, for to cozen the Mer∣chant of Milan of his money.
• b 1.223

  The Spanish 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Vn pie a la Françesa. Vale, al instan∣te. Covarr. verb. Pie.
• * 1.224

  Prouerbe.
• c 1.225

  Si me quebre la pierna, quiça por mejor.
• * 1.226

  Prouerbe.
• d 1.227

  Matarlas en el Ayre. i. s•…•… vn hombre muy agudo, y corte∣sano. Covarr. verb. Matar.
• e 1.228

  Hurtar, sin peligrar, y bien medrar.
• f 1.229

  The Spanish phrase is; Mas es la data, que el∣cargo.
• * 1.230

  Guzman shares the theft with Aguilera, and Sayavedra.
• * 1.231

  Guzman plot∣teth a new de∣ceit.
• * 1.232

  Turne to the first Part of Guz∣man, the third Booke, and the first Chapter.
• * 1.233

  Hee here tex∣eth Mateo Lux∣an Sayavedra, the Author of the false second Part, for his o∣mission of a pro∣mised reuenge, mentioned in the first part, by our Author, Mateo Aleman.
• g 1.234

  In Spain when a Comedian acts his part ex∣ceeding well, the applaudite they there giue him, is to cry, Vitor, Vi∣tor, Vitor, such a one, Pinedo, or Fernandez.
• h 1.235

  Sotana, a g•…•…r∣ment much like our Clergie-mens Cassocks here, which reacheth no farther then the knee: which is the common weare of your Grandes, and o∣ther Noblemen and Gentlemen in Spaine. Dizesi Sotana, porque se trae soto el manteo. Covart.
• * 1.236

  Quo semel im∣buta recens, &c
• * 1.237

  The force of ver∣tue.
• * 1.238

  Men without reason, and who they be.
• * 1.239

  The language of fooles.
• * 1.240

  An exageration against the ene∣mies of vertue.
• a 1.241

  Escarua la gallina por su mal.
• * 1.242

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.243

  The honest Chri∣stian.
• * 1.244

  The Thiefe.
• * 1.245

  Murmurers.
• * 1.246

  Hypocrite.
• * 1.247

  Dissemblers.
• * 1.248

  False witnesses.
• * 1.249

  A Country fel∣lowes mistake: for ochenta an̄os, he names ochoçientos.
• * 1.250

  Of Theeues. Who be the braue theeues.
• b 1.251

  Buscan la paja 〈◊〉〈◊〉 el oydo.
• * 1.252

  Prouerbe.
• c 1.253

  Sacar las bra∣sas, con la mano del gato.
• * 1.254

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.255

  What stealing is.
• * 1.256

  Guzman goes for Milan.
• * 1.257

  Prouerbe.
• d 1.258

  Come, man∣gas, que a voso∣tras es la fiesta.
• e 1.259

  •…•…gan a cada vno, como lo ven t•…•…atado. Good cloathes re∣commend a man more then know∣ledge.
• * 1.260

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.261

  Catulus his say∣ing of Nonius.
• f 1.262

  The Spanish word is Enxun∣dia Adeps por∣cinus, interior pinguedo porci inueterata. Also; lo gordo, que las 〈◊〉〈◊〉 tie∣nen en la ouera.
• * 1.263

  Guzman arriues a•…•… Ge∣noa.
• * 1.264

  The effects of Pride and Vain∣glory.
• * 1.265

  The fruits of following the Court and Wars.
• g 1.266

  The Spanish phrase 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Sin besar, y tocar, en cosa d•…•… pro∣uecho.
• * 1.267

  The common course amongst gamesters.
• h 1.268

  Quien bien siemora, bien coge.
• * 1.269

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.270

  Guzman begins to thinke vpon the reuenge he meant to take of his kinsman.
• * 1.271

  Riches compared to fire.
• * 1.272

  Prouerbe.
• i 1.273

  Mas fuego, mas calor.
• * 1.274

  Prouerbe.
• k 1.275

  Vna fue, y •…•…leuosela el gato. I cannot find whether this vna isr ser'd, and therefore re∣serre it to others to find it out.
• * 1.276

  This Story you shall find, more a•…•… large, in the first Part, first Chapt. an the third Book.
• l 1.277

  The middle place esteemed in Spaine, to be the best.
• m 1.278

  A publike out crie: Or an open sale of goods at the second hand.
• * 1.279

  Prouerbe.
• n 1.280

  En el hato, està el lobo.
• * 1.281

  Inanis potentia, quae non redu∣citur ad actum.
• * 1.282

  Prouerbe.
• o 1.283

  Cada cosa, tiene su quan∣do.
• * 1.284

  Prouerbe.
• p 1.285

  A•…•…s de dar con los hue∣uo•…•… en la ceni∣za.
• * 1.286

  Touching Re∣uenge.
• * 1.287

  Pro•…•…erbe.
• a 1.288

  De donde no piens•…•…n, •…•…uele saltar laliebre.
• * 1.289

  Reuenge a wo∣manish affection.
• * 1.290

  A Story how a wronged Gentle∣woman reuenged the iniury that was done vnto her.
• * 1.291

  A tale of Fuctil∣los the soule.
• b 1.292

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.293

  Reuenge, of all ills the worst.
• * 1.294

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.295

  Por la medido, que midiere, ha de ser me∣dido. Trust not a re∣conciled enemie.
• * 1.296

  A story of a mi∣racle, wrought in San in ato, and vpon what occasion.
• * 1.297

  Of reuenge.
• * 1.298

  Prouerbe.
• d 1.299

  Yo est•…•… fuera de cuen∣ta•…•… ò, en las nueve •…•…es.
• e 1.300

  The Spanish word is Lev•…•… termino nauti∣co, y vale la partid•…•…, y arran∣cada que hazen las gale as del puerto, à le∣vando.
• * 1.301

  Prouerbe.
• f 1.302

  A•…•…remangar los braços hasta los codos. When a man set•…•… him∣selfe roundly about a peece of businesse.
• * 1.303

  Guzman goes about his, lot that he had laid for the c•…•…ning of his kinsmen.
• * 1.304

  What a Traueller must doe, when he comes to his Inne.
• * 1.305

  Prouerbe.
• g 1.306

  En la posada, •…•…o ay cosa po∣sada.
• * 1.307

  Of mariage.
• * 1.308

  Prouerbe. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 de sie∣te slaues: 〈◊〉〈◊〉 à muy buen cobro.
• * 1.309

  Another plot of Guzmans.
• * 1.310

  Guzman leaues Genoa, and car∣ryes away with him his kinsmens goods.
• * 1.311

  Guzmans con∣ceit of his kins∣men in Genoa.
• a 1.312

  The word po∣ma, is vsed for a womans paps or dug•…•…, and by way of similitude may be taken for some Premontorie iet∣ting out into the Sea, resembling the forme and fashion of a wo∣mans brests. If I misse of my ayme, I leaue it to those that haue beene in those parts to determine the true signification thereof.
• * 1.313

  Sayavedra falls sicke of a feuer, and runs mad.
• * 1.314

  Sayavedra drownes him∣selfe.
• * 1.315

  A true and strange storie of a merchant in Sevill.
• b 1.316

  Regalo, is a word of a large extent, and signi∣fies any thing that may giue a woman content, be it in meat, drinke, cloathes, sports, or whatso∣euer else that may delight her.
• c 1.317

  The Spanish word, is, Corpo∣rales; which though they sig∣nifie those things that belong to the body: yet are they more strictly taken for those linnen cloathes which are laid vpon the Altar, whereupon in their Masses, they place the bodie of our Sauiour Ie∣sus Christ vnder the formes of bread and wine; and represent vnto vs, that Sin∣done or fine lin∣nen sheet, where∣in they wrapt the sacred bodie of our blessed Saui∣our when they •…•…d him in his sepulchre. Vide Stephanum Durandum de ritibus Eccle∣siae, lib. 1. c. 22.
• d 1.318

  Teniente, is one that is substi∣tute to another in an Office. A Lieu∣tenant. A tenen∣do. As hauing the charge and keeping of some Forts or Castle, which he faith∣fully keeps and maintaines. Covatr. verb. Teniente.
• e 1.319

  The Spanish word is; Bolver al pucsto con la can̄a. To pitch downe his stan∣dard. To proceed no farther.
• f 1.320

  Disciplinan∣tes, are they that lash them-selues to doe penance.
• g 1.321

  When they will note out a Watch, or the sorceries of an old Hagg, the Spaniards in∣deare it with this phrase, Que ha∣•…•…à naçerberios en cima de la cama. That they will make water-cresses to grow on the top of a bed. that is; shee will do strange things, or worke won∣ders. Covarr. verb. Berros.
• h 1.322

  Cayo la sopa en la miel.
• * 1.323

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.324

  Prouerbe.
• i 1.325

  La cusebra esta entre la yerva.
• k 1.326

  The Spanish word is, Duen̄a, and signifieth an ancient. Gentle-woman that is a widow: now ta∣•…•… commonly for those that weare large vayles like your Nunnes, to difference them from maides. And in the Kings Court, they call those Duen̄as de honor, that are principall persons, and be∣come widowes, & your Queenes and great Prin∣cesses haue them still attending vpon them. Covarr. verb. Duen̄a.
• l 1.327

  No me acor∣daua mas della, que de la pri∣mera camisa, que me vesti.
• * 1.328

  Prouerbe.
• m 1.329

  Estrado is a place raised halfe a foot from the ground, couered ouer with car∣pets, where La∣dies and Gentle-women sit vpon cushions, and re∣ceiue their Visi∣tes. Lat•…•… Stra∣tus, ab stemen∣do: sed pouùs à Graec. 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉. Covarr. verb. Estrado.
• * 1.330

  Prouerbe.
• n 1.331

  El diablo nunca hizo em∣panada, de que no quisiesse comer la meyor parte.
• o 1.332

  Yr•…•…as ca∣mas gateando.
• * 1.333

  Prouerbe.
• p 1.334

  Assi tengays el suen̄o.
• * 1.335

  Prouerbe.
• q 1.336

  H. zo la cu∣enta sin la hu∣espeda.
• * 1.337

  Prouerbe.
• r 1.338

  The principall Magistrate, and chiefe Comman∣der in Sevill, is called there by the name of Assistence.