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

CHAP. V.

Guzman de Alfarache, leaues off his studies; he goes to liue at Madrid; hee carries his wife with him; from whence they were both banished.

HAuing •…•…apt from a Bachelor of Diuinity, into the degree of a Master of prophane Loue; it is now to bee supposed that I am become a Licentiat; and hauing already so farre proceeded therein, I may with your good licence (as a true professor thereof) be permitted to speake so much as I know concerning the same. For, out of the good expe∣rience that I haue had thereof, I dare boldly boast my selfe to be one of the best Proficients that was euer bred vp in the Schoole of Loue. If we should goe about to define it (so many hauing said so much of it) it were but to repeat that Lesson, which hath already beene said ouer a thou∣sand times and more. Loue then is, Totum in toto, all in all: And so contrary in its effects, that the more we say thereof, the lesse we shall be vnderstood. Yet will wee shoote one arrow amongst the rest that haue endeuoured to hit this marke, and say something of that whereof so many haue spoken.

Loue is the prison of Folly, borne of Idlenesse, bred vp by Selfe-will and Mo∣ney, and maintained with Filthinesse, Vncleannesse, and Dishonesty: It is the * 1.1 excesse of a bruitish and beastly desire; most subtill and piercing, making its way through the eyes to the heart: It is that poysoned shaft, deliuered from the hand of the Archer, which neuer stayes till it come to its Center. It is a guest, whom with a great deale of earnestnesse, we our selues inuite, but being

once receiued into our house, is not so easily put out. It is a childe that longs for euery thing it sees, fantasticall, and full of Apish trickes; it is an old doting foole, feeble and decrepit. It is a sonne that will not pardon his owne father; and a father which will mis-vse his owne sonne. It is a God that hath no mer∣cie, a secret enemie, a feigned friend, a blind but sure shooter, weake to vnder∣goe any paines, and yet as strong as Death. He obserues no law, nor is he gouer∣ned by reason; he is impatient, suspitious, iealous, reuengefull, and a sweet tyrant. They paint him blind, because he keepes neither meane nor measure, distinction or election, order or counsaile, constancy or modesty, but euermore erres. They giue him wings, to show his lightnesse, in apprehending that, which is beloued by vs, by which he bringeth vs to an vnfortunate end. So that onely he that goes blindly to worke, speeds best; and he that lightly wooes, likely winnes the wench. And though these, and such as these, bee the effects of Loue, yet for to bring them to passe, ere euer we can execute them, he will, that we shall want patience in our hopes, feare in the hazarding of our persons, wit in our words, modesty in our demands, iudgement in making our choyce, a bridle to restraine our inconsiderate actions, and consideration to free vs from dangers.

I fell in loue at the first sight, I was taken with a looke, the darts that flew from forth those her eyes, comming so thicke, and with that force vpon mee, that I presently yeelded thereupon, and became her Captiue. Nor was trans∣cursion of time, needfull in this case, as some would necessarily inferre, which affirmation of theirs, I hold to bee an error. For, euer since the fall of our first parents, with that Leauen of theirs, was the whole lumpe and masse of man∣kind made sowre, and corrupted with these their hereditary vices; the frame of this humane horologe, was so broaken, and put out of order, that there was not one whole wheele left, to answer one another, nor any spring remaining, whereby to giue it motion: But was so vtterly spoiled, so rent and torne in pieces, and so wholly out of all frame and order, as if it had beene a cleane con∣trary thing, so differing was it now, from that first setled estate, wherein God had created it; the alteration of this its truer course, arising from mans disor∣derly disobedience. From hence, grew that blindnesse in his vnderstanding, that forgetfulnesse in his memory, that defect in his will, that disorder in his appetite, that deprauednesse in his Actions, that deceit in his senses, that weak∣nesse in his strength, and those paines and torments, in his greatest delights, and pleasures. A cruell squadron of sore and fierce enemies; who, as soone as God hath infused our soules into our bodies, incompassing vs on euery side, violently set vpon vs; and so hotly assaile vs with the sweet enticements of sin, faire promises, and the false apparances of foule and filthy pleasures, that they ouer-throw all goodnesse in vs, and so taint and corrupt our soules, that they put them quite out of that good course, for which they were created. So that it may be said of the soule, that it is composed of two contrary parts, the one rationall and diuine; and the other, of naturall corruption. And forasmuch as the flesh, on that side whereto it inclines, is weake, fraile, and so full of im∣perfection, (sinne hauing so wholly infected it cleane throughout) hence is it come to passe, that imperfection and disorder, is as it were naturall vnto vs. And such and so great is this extreame, that man cannot account any conquest * 1.2 greater then the subduing of his passions. Great is his courage, whosoeuer he be, that can resist them, and bring them vnder, in regard of that mortall warre, and infernall enmity, which is, and still will be, betweene our Reason and our Appetite. For our Appetite perswadeth vs vnto that, which is most agreeable to our nature, to that which doth best like and please vs, and to things of that quality, which we take pleasure to treat of, and haue a desire to obtaine them. Whereas on the contrary, Reason is like vnto a Schoole-master, who, that she may the better correct vs, goes alwayes with a rod of reprehension in her hand,

condemning the ill which wee commit. But wee, like little children, play the Tr•…•…ants, and flye from this Schoole, for feare of correction when wee doe amisse, and runne a-mouching eyther to our Aunts house, or our grand∣fathers, where wee are made much of, and suffered to play the wantons.

Thus often (if not alwayes) Reason remaineth (which ought not so to be) in * 1.3 vassallage and slauery to our Appetite: Which when it hath once gotten so great a power and dominion ouer vs, that of filthy Loue, being so vehement, so violent, so powerfull, so proper to this our being, so solely, and wholly ours, so sutable to our disposition, so glued and wedged to our nature, that to breathe, or liue, is not more proper vnto vs; it must of necessitie follow, that it is the hardest passion to represse, the terriblest enemy that wee haue to deale withall, and who with most strength and greatest force comes vpon vs, as∣saults vs, and subdues vs.

And albeit, it be true, that Reason, holding (as shee doth) her ancient place of preheminence, is wont sometimes to hinder, by her great wisedome and valour, the sodaine working of a looke (although it haue the power of potent causes, to assist and further the same) that it may not easily, and as it were in a trice, rob vs of our will, before wee are aware, putting a man in an instant besides himselfe: yet (as already hath beene said) for as much as the Appetite and the Will, are such sure marke-men, so free, so Lord-like, being neuer yet taught to obey, nor acknowledge any Superiour, it is an easie thing for them, hauing Loue on their side, to worke whatsoeuer effects, and in such forme and manner, as shall seeme best to stand with their owne liking.

And because likewise there is not any thing, which doth not naturally ap∣peterc bonum, desire that which is good; and that euery action which wee vndergoe, is in regard of that good, which represents it selfe vnto vs, or that happinesse wee finde to be in it, wee euermore desire to obtaine the same, and ioyne it vnto vs, side (as they say) to side: nay, wee would (if it were pos∣sible) out of this our earnest desire, conuert it, and incorporate it into our owne substance.

From hence then, this Conclusion may be gathered; That, for a man to * 1.4 fall in loue, there is no such force or necessitie in it, that there should some distance of time interpose it selfe, that some discourse ensue thereupon, or that there be any election or deliberation had in the matter; but that vpon the very first veiw, that onely, sole, single, and primary sight, there may ioyntly concurre in both, a correspondencie, or consonancie, or (as we here in Spaine commonly vse to call it) Vna confrontacion de sangre, a confronting, or confor∣mitie of the blood, wherin the starres by a particular influence, are wont to worke, and doe often moue vs thereunto.

For, being that these beames doe dart themselues by the eyes from the heart, they take infection from that which they finde before them, especially if those they encounter withall, be like vnto their owne, and returning pre∣sently backe againe to the very selfe-same place, from whence they were sent forth, as they draw these in with them to the heart, so doe they por∣trait and ingraue therein that fayre obiect, which they saw and desired. And because it seemeth to the Appetite, to be a noble pledge, and well worthy the buying, at any rate or price whatsoeuer, esteeming it as a thing of infi∣nite value; it presently enters into treaty, how he may come to inioy the same, freely offring for it, and with a very good will, the greatest treasure and riches, that hee hath, which is his Liberty, his heart being made pri∣soner by that Lord, whom himselfe admitted into his bosome.

And in that very instant, that this bonum, or this thing, be it what it will bee, comes to be beloued, and entertained by vs, it is likewise to be con∣sidered, that man doth forthwith apply his vnderstanding to esteeme it as its

summum bonum, or chiefest happinesse: and so desiring to haue it conuerted into himselfe, is himselfe conuerted into that which he so much desireth.

Whence it commeth to passe, that those very selfe-same effects, which may be wrought by length of time, getting ground vpon vs by continuation, con∣sideration, and conuersation: so also they may be occasioned in that instant, that this contentment, or pleasure, that wee take in that good, which wee in our imagination, figure and fashion to our selues, is caused in vs. For, in re∣gard that wee know not, or (to speake in a truer kinde of language) will not hinder the course thereof, nor make any resistance against it; as also in re∣spect of the corruption of our nature, debilitie of our reason, captiuitie of our liberty, and the weaknesse of our forces, dazled, if not blinded, with this light, wee want wings to flye from it; and like men that are hood-winkt, runne headlong on to our owne ruine: it seeming decent and fitting for vs, to yeeld our selues presently thereunto, as to a thing that is naturall vnto vs.

And this is so proper vnto man, as light is to the Sunne, cold to Snow, heat to Fire; as it is to heauy things to descend, and to those that are ayrie to ascend; without giuing way to the vnderstanding, or any power to free∣will, who inioying their priuiledges, might exercise their office; which are now in subiection to the Will, which remaines now no more free, so that in stead of making resistance, wee furnish the enemie with weapons against our selues. Iust so, doth it succeed with Reason and Understanding, in regard of the Will. For whereas in that first age, whilest wee stood in the state of inno∣cency, * 1.5 they were absolute Lords, and like Kings, had all things vnder their subiection, and did conserue and keepe in peace, all that fayre and goodly fa∣bricke. After mans first sinne, they remained slaues, and were made obedi∣ent to the Will, and forced to become the ministers and executioners of this her cruell Tyranny. So that now, our passions and affections hauing got the vpper-hand, and wee being furthered and led along with a blinde and de∣praued vnderstanding, and hungring and thirsting after our owne lustfull ap∣petites, wee doe inconsiderately debase our manly brests, bowing them to the ground, to lappe of those waters, which may please the palate of our lustfull pleasures.

Wee flye like hooded Falcons, one while towring to the vppermost Re∣gions of the ayre; another while taking through the thickest woods, ig∣norant of any future danger, nor fearing the assured mischiefe that must light vpon vs. So that few doe stand vpon this distance of time, which is set before them, neyther doe they preuise, or prouide for after-claps; or if they would, Loue will not suffer them so to doe, so impatient is this little∣great-God, of delayes. And these the like effects did he worke vpon me.

I was now turn'd marryed man the second time, and so well and hap∣pily to mine owne liking and content, that I did verily perswade my selfe, Que nunca por mi se començara el toçino del paray•…•…o, That I should neuer haue * 1.6 fallen from so great a happinesse, and that I should still haue continued the happiest man in the world. I did not then consider with my selfe, nor did it once enter into my imagination, that this holy Ordinance, ordayned by God in Paradise, I should solely and wholly haue sought after it for the ser∣uice and glory of God, the augmentation of his Church, and the continua∣tion of mine owne Species or kinde, by a lawfull meanes of succession. But these, were the least of my thought, I did meerly intend mine owne plea∣sure and delight. It was her beauty, and not my duty, that I minded. Much lesse, did I giue place to the Understanding, that hee might aduise mee to to that which hee knew was best for mee: nor indeed was I willing to hearken to his good counsaile. I did shut mine eyes against those things, that should haue done me good. I did put Reason away from mee: I ill intrea∣ted Truth, for shee told mee, that marrying with a fayre woman, many

cares must necessarily offer them-selues vnto mee, for feare shee should be∣come common.

In conclusion, being ill aduised, I pursued to please mine owne humour, an ill-desired-good: I was blinded with those her naturall gifts, and bewitched with her grace and beauty; things, as proper to my Spouse as they were without any artifice or dawbing. Hee erres, who thinkes that any thing can seeme well that is an artificiall composition, or a borrowed beauty: for this fayre tincture that is giuen to the face, is but a false and counterfeit plaistring; and when that dawbing is taken off, that foulnesse that was there before, re∣turnes afresh, and becomes more fowle. * 1.7

I liu'd as merrily as the day was long: And hee, a 1.8 that is not blest with a Mother-in-law, knowes not what a blessing he wants. Shee vs'd mee as if I had beene her owne sonne, seeking by all meanes possible how shee might please me, and giue me content. There was not any Guest, that brought a good morsell of meat into the house, whereof I had not a part. And if it came not in that wayes, why then her purse should pay for it, buying the best the market would afford.

And as my wife brought me but a small dowry, so did shee take vnto her∣selfe * 1.9 the lesse liberty of speech, and had the lesse cause to put me to vnnecessary and superfluous expence, and to demand a thousand idle toyes of mee which chargeable fooleries, your wiues that bring great portions, too-too often put their husbands vnto. Shee was young, and so young, that I easily wrought her to mine owne will, and could bowe and bend her which way I list my selfe. It was a pretty flexible foole, and was willing to be rul'd by mee.

I had got me kinsfolke, who thought them-selues much honoured and gra∣ced by my person, because they knew I was euery way superiour vnto them. For hee that shall linke him-selfe in alliance with those that are of greater ranke and qualitie then him-selfe, shall neuer lacke Lords, to serue; Iudges, to feare, and Princes, to whom hee must pay perpetuall tribute. But my Mother-in-law * 1.10 was tributary to me, & my Sister-in-law was my slaue, my Spouse did adore me, and all the house did serue mee. Neuer at any time, as now, was I so free from taking thought for any thing, or from the troubles and cares of this world. For I thought vpon nothing, but eating, drinking, and sleeping, and to passe away the time merrily, without being subiect to anothers controlment, nor lyable to any payments, not so much as the value of one farthing, eyther for house-rent, or to the King. All did dance after my pipe, and did foot it as I would haue them But this dance was the blinde-mans Measure, and my selfe that led them, was the blindest amongst them.

They say of Circes, that inticing strumpet, that with her wicked sorceries, and diuellish inchantments, she turned those men into beasts, with whom shee conuersed. Some shee turned into Lyons; others, into Wolues, Boares, Beares, Serpents, and other the like bruitish shapes: but withall, left them their vnder∣standing quicke and souud; for in that particular shee did not touch them. But this other whore (which is our blinde Will) takes a cleane contrary course; for, leauing vs the formes of men, shee bestowes on vs the vnderstanding of beasts. And (as I haue said heretofore) I neuer saw any alteration of fortune, which was not accompanyed with some disasters, which were neuer presup∣posed, * 1.11 or once dreamt of before. And alwayes at the first shee makes show of a great deale of loue and kindnesse, that to our greater griefe shee may tumble vs downe, from that height of happinesse, wherin wee now supposed wee safely stood. For that which grieues, vs most in these our worldly losses, is the recor∣dation the possession of them. So that the more (in inioying them) was our happinesse, the more sensible (in losing them) is our misery. Shee turn'd her wheele, against me, my wife, and all our whole house.

My father-in-law (whose soule is now in heauen) though he were an Inne∣keeper,

yet I can assure you he was a good honest man: for they are not all of thē * 1.12 knaues, they doe not all picke their guests pockets, rob their mailes, nor peruse their cloak-bags: and there are many of them that doe not will their Ostlers to cozen the beasts of their prouender; nor will them-selues pinch their guests in their dyet, and yet make them pay deare for it. For these are things which ap∣pertaine more properly vnto women, for that they are naturally more sparing and solicitous about these things, then men, and more curious in the ordering of their prouision. And if there be any such false dealing amongst them, the fault was none of theirs, nor was any such thing to be presumed from my father- or mother-in-law; for they were good honest plaine people, bred in the mountai∣nous Country, as good Gentle-folk, and as well descended as Cid him-selfe, saue that through their mis-fortune and pouerty, they were forced to follow that course of life: which shall plainly appeare vnto you by that which ensueth. For he being so honest a man as he was, such a friend to his friends, and naturally giuen to doe other men good, he trusted one of his acquaintance with a cer∣taine rent of Tithes: some would say, that he spent all this Barley and Wheat in his house, but I doe not beleeue it, being it fell out so ill with him; but did rather lose thereby, preferring his credit before his profit. For as it was after∣wards told me, both by my mother-in-law, my wife, and my Sister-in-law, hee was a man that lou'd to fare well, and that his table was alwayes well furnisht, his vessels were fill'd with rich Wines, he made much of himselfe, and led as merry a life, as cup and can could make him: for there are a certaine kinde of men whose God is their belly.

I knew a good-fellow in Seuill, that was iust such another for all the world * 1.13 as hee was, though hee liu'd not in that credit as hee did; who pickt out a poore liuing by copying out of Sermons, euery sheet that he wrote, yeelding him halfe a Royall. This mans helpe my selfe had occasion once to vse, for to copy out a certaine Processe for mee at home in mine owne house, and hee hauing staid somewhat long after dinner, before he returned againe to his worke, I demanded of him why he came no sooner: And he told me that hee was faine to goe a great wayes off to fetch his dinner. But looking a little bet∣ter vpon him, and beholding him to be a man, made of Taylors shreds, compo∣sed of a company of patches, and those all to bee tatterd and torne, not ha∣uing a ragge to his taile, a shooe to his foot, a cloake to his backe, nor a hat to his head, but as poore as poore might be; I imagined with my selfe, that for his owne ease he might or ought to haue dined in some poore victualing-house, or the next Tauerne, that was at hand. Whereupon, I said vnto him, Are there no Cookes shops, or victualing-houses here-abouts, that you are for∣ced to goe so farre? Hee told me; Sir, I am a poore man; I eate that I get, and I get what I can, that I may liue the better. To that Bodegou, or victualing-house whither I goe, they are acquainted with my dyet; and know that I will haue to my dinner a pound of the best mutton that is to be bought in the mar∣ker, and another of Kid: the sawce thereunto being Rocket and Sugar. And this is my fashion of feeding for the winter: for the sommer a little thing con∣tents me, a morsell of v•…•…ale, or a chicken, ot some such light meate.

But to goe on with my former discourse, This friend and acquaintance of my * 1.14 father-in-lawes, beginning to sinke in his estate, and dying within a few dayes after, when the day of payment was come, they came vpon my mother-in-law with an Execution, by vertue wherof they ceazed on all that was in the house, and carried away with them whatsoeuer they found there, & I was afraid that they would haue taken me and my wife along with them, as reckning vs a part of the houshold-goods. But though they did not, yet was it little better, and in a manner almost all one: for they tooke vs by the shoulders, and thrust vs out of doores, that we might not hinder them in the execution of their office, or keepe a coyle and stirre with them about the carrying away of the goods.

We saw ourselues, like those that are rob'd by pyrates, rifled of all that wee had. We made shift to with-draw our selues, as well as we could, to a neighbors house; and because the creditors would make the best benefit that they could of the Inne, being willing that they should haue it, that would pay most for it: there were not those wanting, that did seeke to out-bid one another; for * 1.15 there is no man so great an enemy vnto thee, b 1.16 as he that is of thine owne trade. In these kind of men, there is no enuy wanting; they doe repine at anothers prosperity, and secke to cut each others throat.

This Inne, had beene heretofore in very good credit; so that they went out-vying one another, (euery one striuing to haue it) still out-bidding my mother-in-law, who was likewise a suter vnto them, that shee might rent it of them, for that she, and her daughters, had beene there bred vp, and had con∣tinued therein so long, which made her the more desirous to hold it, and to of∣fer more for it then it was worth. In conclusion, we had possession againe of the house, in despight of all our enemies, but so inhaunced in the rent (for the which me may thanke others malice) and other by-payments, that were to goe out of it, that we were scarce able to find our selues bread and pilchards. For the Rent, like a Sponge, did sucke vp all our gaines, and drunke vp so much of our commoditie, that we were ready (being thus ouer-rented) to perish for want of food.

When I saw my selfe brought to so low ad ebbe, I beganne to bethinke my selfe, purposing to make vse of my Philosophy, and apply my selfe to the study∣ing of Physicke, thinking to thriue by that course, and to picke a good liuing * 1.17 out of it; but it would not fadge with me, nor was it possiblefor me to doe my selfe good that way; howbeit I had spent some time therein, to make triall what I could doe: Some little profit I made of it, by reason of those good grounds which I had from the Metaphysicks: For it is a vsuall saying with vs, That, Ubi definit Philosophus, ibi incipit Mêdicus; & vbi Medicus, ibi Theologus: Where the Philosopher ends, there the Physitian beginnes; and where the Physitian, there the Diuine. The maine drift of my desire was, to see if I could make a shift to rub out, and by some meanes or other to sustaine my selfe; but all was lost labour, howbeit that I might the better bring the world about, I permitted gaming, visites, conuersations, and other impertinencies in my house, all which did me more harme then goods I c 1.18 sought to shunne Cha∣ribdis, and fell vpon Scilla. And thinking to mend, I mar'd my fortune. So see∣ing mine owne error, and perceiuing at last, that none of all these would come to take fire, I beganne to consider with my selfe, that some dainty pleasing bayte, that was sweet to swallow, would doe the deed, and proue like vnto your Comine-seeds, which being hung vp in a little linnen bag in some Doue∣house, * 1.19 will onely with the sent thereof, cause the Pigeons to flocke vnto it. But herein that happened vnto me, which commonly befalleth your Comfit-ma∣kers; when as the Flies with the very sauour of his sweet meates, resort in swa•…•…mes to his shop, and there glut them-selues with feeding vpon these his pleasing confections.

At the first I dissembled it a little, and would not seeme to take notice of any such thing; for giue you but neuer so little way to a woman, slacken but the * 1.20 line that holds her in, and nothing in the world will lash out more, or assume more liberty to it selfe. Lay but the raynes on her necke, and seeke not to hold her in, there is no ho with her; then shall you see what friskals shee will fetch, leape, fling, and flie out, that no ground shall hold her. She will take hedge, or ditch, or any thing; nothing comes amisse, though it be to the breaking of her owne, and her riders neck.

All things (as it is with old cloathes) grew worse and worse with vs, wee * 1.21 did eate, but (God he knowes) how little it was, to so hard a scantling, and to such a poore allowance, were our hungry bellies limited. But there was no

limitation put to our lawlesse liberties, they had now broken all bounds of mo∣desty, they had lost their former sure footing, and had runne them-selues out of all order, without any feare or respect, either to God or man; so that my re∣putation lay now in the suds, our honour gone to ruine, our house, all on a fla∣ming fire; and all this were we faine to suffer, for want of food. My mother-in-law * 1.22 was content to winke at it, my sister she solicited the businesse, my wife was a willing worme, and these three playing booty, they made their game the surer. My mouth was bung'd vp, I durst not speake, because it was I that had set open the doore to three, and intertained all occasions; which if I had not done, we might all haue staru'd.

I past a while with this, (still seeming ignorant of what was done) and taking no notice of the meale, that fell into the Mill-chest) but the tolle was so poore, that wee could not liue by that kinde of grinding in Alcala. The Students were able to part but with a little; for their al∣lowances were so small, that they could not maintayne them-selues and another; and there was not one amongst them all, that was capable to be made a Nominatiue to rule a Verbe in order of Construction, and where∣unto a man might haue reference and recourse, when things are necessa∣rily required to be ioyned together. But to fare ill, to eat little, and that late, and to part with so much pleasure, for so little profit, that I should see my selfe (like a person that suffereth) put still in the Accusatiue Case, I could by no meanes endure it; nor was I willing to giue entertaynment in my house to these needy Schollers, who are more for the Vocatiue then * 1.23 the Datiue. I had cast vp my reckoning, and found, that the d 1.24 Crow could not be blacker then his Wings: The harme is already done: The greatest Gudgeon is already swallowed downe: Things cannot be well worse, then they are. My honour is already imp•…•…wned, the lesser euill is to sell it out∣right; the profit here is small, the infamie great; the Students crafty, and full of tricks; and victuals hard to come by: So that now it was not onely fit∣ting to change our bowles, but to doe the same speedily. It goes ill with vs one way, and worse another; and therefore wee must apply our selues to that, which may make most for our profit. And being that something must be lost by the bargaine, let vs not be like the botcher, that dwells at the corner of the street, who workes all day for nothing, and then throwes away his needle and thread in a rage. We must not hurle all away with a curse, but carry things in that manner, that we may haue some-thing remayning to helpe vs at a pinch, at least as is necessarie for our victum, and vestitum; our food, and apparell. Let vs leaue this valley of teares, before the long vacation come, when all is in a calme, and no winde stirring, to blow vs any good. Let vs leaue this vnhallowed people, from whom the greatest things of value, that can be gotten, is a six-penny pye, or two rolls of manjar blanco, and when they doe bestow these things, they goe not out of the house, till they haue ea∣ten the better halfe thereof them-selues. If their Mothers send them a bar∣rell of Cordova Oliues, they thinke they doe vs a great kindnesse, if they giue vs a little plate-full of them, and that they make our eyes water•…•…, if not cleane put them out, with two smoakie sausages of the mountaine. No, no, there is no such matter, it cost vs more then so. I will not sell my honour so cheape to Schollers, where there is nothing to be got, but halfe-penny loafes, and hat-bands.

I knew well enough what had past in Court, and how the world went there: There had I seene many men, who had no other trade to liue by, * 1.25 nor any other in-come to maintayne them, but a faire face, and that they would often take in stead of a Dowry; for with them it was held to be a mine of infinite treasure, labouring and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to marry with women of such worth and credit, that were cunning in their Art, and knew what did belong to the

businesse, and could tell without teaching, where their shooe did wring them. I was also acquainted with those their subtle and cunning tricks which they made vse of, that they might not be obliged to that, which was vnbeseeming them. For when the chamber was occupyed, and that they had a friend with them, whom they were willing to entertaine, they would either take downe the Lettice, or set a jarr in the window, or a shooe, or some one thing or other, whereby their husbands might know that they were to passe by the doore, and not to come in for feare of interrupting their sport. But at noone, the field was left open vnto them, they might then freely enter into their owne houses, where they should finde the table well furnisht, the meat good, and neatly drest, and needed not to take any great care to keepe the chayre warme; for he that sent in this prouision, would come thither in person to passe away the time, and to make merry a-while with them. And a-nights, when the Aue-Mary-bell had gone, and that deuotion ended, they would returne home againe, they had their supper ready prouided for them, then would they goe to sleepe alone by them-selues, till that the houre was come, that their wiues were to come to bed to them, it sometimes so falling out, that they would stay away till it were broad-day, for that they had occasion to goe forth to visit some of their neighbours.

In a word, these good men, and their wiues, did liue in that cunning fa∣shion, that without suffering them-selues to be vnderstood, either by word, or by deed, they both knew very well how to play their parts, and what each of them had to doe. And these kinde of kinde husbands, were well respected by their wiues, and honoured with many Visites, in another gates fashion, then they were, who did walke without this disguise: Nay, their wiues would be earnest to haue them abroad with them, calling and carrying them along with them to those feasts and bankets, whereunto they were inuited, eating to∣gether at one boord, and sleeping together in one bed.

I knew one, who because a Gallant, that lou'd and maintaynd his wife, had setled his affection vpon another woman, made no more adoe, when he heard * 1.26 of it, but goes presently in all haste to looke him out: And when hee had found where he was, he comes vnto him, and asks him, what fault hee could finde in his wife, that hee had forsaken her companie: Which question he had no sooner put vnto him, but hee sodainly claps within him, and stab'd him twice in the bodie, but (as God would haue it) he did not dye of those his wounds.

Such as these goe to a Bodegon for their dinner, for their wine to a Tauerne, and to the market with a basket. But those that are of a more honourable and noble disposition, it will well agree with them, that they leaue the house free for all cōmers, going them-selues in the meane while to see a Comedie, or to get them abroad to play a bout or two at billiards, or some other the like pastimes, especially when their Commissions are out. I would not for any thing doe that, which some doe; who, when in the presence of their wiues, others begin to commend these and these good parts, in such, or such a courted Dame, will ne∣uer leaue till they make their wiues discouer theirs there before them, prefer∣ring and praysing them to be farre better then any that they can show. But for a tacite permission, without any kinde of submission, or yeelding thereunto of mine, I did no way dislike it, but was well contented with it.

I got my bagg and baggage together, made vp that little that I had into a fardle, all which a man might in a manner haue shut vp in a Snailes shell; for one little olde worme-eaten chest contain'd all the houshold stuffe and wealth that I had; which being put into a Cart, my wife and I sitting thereupon, we marched on to Madrid, singing all the way as we went, e 1.27 Tres anades madre. Before we came thither, I began to cast vp my reckonings with my selfe, and when I had well thought vpon the businesse, and made vp my account, I said to

my selfe; I carry here along with me a morsell for a King, new fruit new, fresh ware, fresh, neuer seene, nor handled before: And therefore I will sell deare, and set what price on't I list my selfe; I will make mine owne market: I shall not faile to meet with some one or other, who that he may supply my turne, will employ mee abroad in some profitable businesse; and a secret molestation may well be dissembled, and fairely borne withall, especially when it shadowes it selfe vnder the cloake of friendship: So that, what with sparing the ex∣pences of my house, and what by getting other wayes, I shall quickly grow rich; I shall once more come to be Master of a Familie, and to haue an ho∣nest house of mine owne, wherein I may be able to lodge six or seauen good guests, which will yeeld mee such reasonable profit, that wee shall not want wherewithall to liue, but be supplyde with all such things as are necessarie for vs. I am priuie to mine owne good parts, and know how fit I am for any imployment of importance, wherewith they may trust mee, and how surely they may relie vpon me. In businesses abroad, I shall be carefull and di∣ligent; and at home in my house, patient and quiet. I will vse all the meanes I can to gaine my selfe credit, and to grow into a good opinion with the world: And when the measure of my desires shall be full, and come to its height, I will bend my courses to matters of greater moment, and leaue off my tra∣ding; nor shall any other by-occasions necessarily with-draw me from these my designes.

My wife entred into Madrid in the best cloathes shee had, hauing a gallant hat on her head, set forth with a faire plume of feathers of diuers colours, but the deuill a lot of any thing else that we had, that was worth any thing, excepting onely our Ghitterne, which wee still carryed with vs wheresoeuer wee went.

We were no sooner come to Court, but presently in an instant, before wee could set our feet on the ground, the fame of our welcome to Towne had spread it selfe abroad, her beauty had mustered together a great number of Voluntaries, that offered their seruice vnto her, and were willing to hazard their lifes and fortunes fighting vnder her colours; where shee was, there was their rendezvous. The people flockt apace, where shee had pitcht her stan∣dard: But the only man that show'd him-selfe most forward at that time to ac∣commodate vs, being thus newly arriued, was a rich Fripper or Broaker in the high street, who asking vs, whence we came, and whither we would: when I had told him, that we were bound for this place, and had no farther to goe, and that we had no knowne lodging, nor any acquaintance, whither to di∣rect vs; he forth-with made profession how willing he was to further vs, and how desirous to expresse him-selfe a friend vnto vs; and thereupon brought vs to a womans house, a friend of his, where we were kindly entertayn'd, and with a great deale of respect, not for the Asses sake, but the Goddesse, that was borne by the Asse.

This good honest Broaker, when he had seene vs in our lodging, told vs, that * 1.28 we could not choose but be weary with our last nights ill rest, and our hard iourney: And for that we had not any, that could on the sodaine make fit∣ting prouision of such things, as were needfull for vs, that wee should not trouble our heads therewith, not take any farther care; for we should be sup∣plyde by a seruant of his, whom hee would send vnto vs. And so that day hee sent vs in good store of meat ready dreft by one that kept a Cookes shop, and had alwayes good victuals in a readinesse. And after that he had furnisht vs with all things fitting, towards the euening hee him-selfe came to visit vs, and after that a few of complements and ceremonies had past too and fro be∣tweene vs, I askt him how much hee had laid out for vs: But hee seemed to make light of it, and told me (as one that was willing not to heare on that care) that it was a trifle, a thing of nothing; telling mee farther, how much

he did desire to serue mee, in things of a higher nature then these were, when∣soeuer occasion should offer it selfe; and that this was not worthy the talking of, and therefore I should speake no more of it, seeming as it were to be asha∣med of him-selfe, that I should touch any more vpon that string; yet not∣withstanding I did presse him to receiue the cost he had beene at; Telling him, That friendship is friendship, and money is money; and that I should not esteeme the lesse of his loue, if he would giue me leaue to discharge it, it being enough that I had put him to so much trouble. So at last (to satisfie my importunitie) he told me, that the whole came to a matter of eight Roy∣alls, which I presently paid him: But because I would not haue him goe out of the house, I began to vse my old occupation, and putting on my cloake, I tooke my leaue of him, t•…•…lling him, that I must needs goe vi∣sit a certaine friend touching some businesses, that did much concerne mee, and that therefore hee would hold mee excused, and pardon this my vnmannerly proceeding. Hauing thus made my way, I left him in good conuersation in mine Hostesses lodging, and got me abroad a walking vntill it was night.

When I came home, I found the cloath laid, supper ready, and all things in that good order, and in that plentifull manner, as if I had left store of money in my wifes hands for to make this prouision. I spake not a word of it, nor did so much as aske whence shee had it, or who had sent it in; as well because it was not fitting for mee so to doe, as also for that mine Hostesse had told mee, that wee were that night to be her guests; as also this honest man the Broaker. And from that suppers acquaintance, hee and I remayned euer after very great and kinde friends. Hee did often come to visit vs, and would carry vs abroad to walke, and merrily to passe the time, inuiting vs sometimes to goe downe to sup by the riuer side, to dine at such and such quintas and gardens of pleasure: In the euening he would carry vs to Comedies, and bestow a box vpon vs, and there make vs a good f 1.29 Col∣lation; wherewith we past away the time the better.

And albeit I must truly confesse, that this honest man did all that he could, and that nothing was wanting vnto vs, yet notwithstanding, all that hee did, seemed little or nothing vnto me; for I must tell you, there were some, who to haue had a taste of these sauoury fruits, would haue past the bounds of ho∣nestie, and come to a higher price, and giuen much more money for a stan∣ding in such a Faire. For I knew very well, that women that are faire, and of a good presence, are like vnto your meale, which is made of the best wheat; for from the flower, the purest and finest part thereof, that white and delicate bread is taken forth, whereon Kings and Princes, your Grandes, and Gentle-men of qualitie doe feed; but that which is not of the choysest flower, but is browner, as it comes from the mill, is bread for the houshold, for Seruingmen, trauellers, and persons of meane account: and the bran, or reffuse part thereof, serues for dogs-meat, or for the feeding of swine, making lap of it for the one, and washe for the other. But a woman of a beautifull and cheerefull countenance, shee no sooner comes into any place, though shee be there vnknowne, but all are ready to grace her, the chie∣fest and principallest persons, offering, the first thing they doe, to rise, and giue her respect, the gallantest and richest amongst them, euen to the very Lords, and greatest Peeres of the Kingdome, vayling their bonnets, giuing her a faire and ciuill salutation, desiring to enioy such a dainty peece, whom Nature hath so adapted for noble conuersation. But anon after (when these are glutted, and will no more) the common route rushes in, first our neigh∣bours sonnes, then those that come to the Vintage with a tanka•…•…d of g 1.30 ar∣rope in their hands; a burden of wood vpon th•…•… backs, to make a Christ∣mas fire; or a basket of figs, according to the season of the yeare; these

pay a pension all the yeare long for their pleasure, as duly as they doe to their Physitian or their Barber. But when these will nible no more, but refuse to bite at the baite, the dogges will beginne to barke at her; not a knaue shooe∣maker, nor poore old Cobler, that will not set vpon her, and raile at her; nor a fieue-maker, that will not make her dance to the sound of his bels.

This kind hearted Broaker had already bestow'd on my wife a gowne of black saten, trim'd with veluet, and a scarlet mantle, which was daintily set forth with a broad parchment lace of gold, which made a glorious show; we had a marue∣lous faire bed, a neate little table, and a handsome sute of chaires sutable there∣vnto; but how, or which way be came by them, I knew not. Wee had foure good pieces of leather-hangings, richly gilt. In a word, the furniture of our house was now so well increased, that with the helpe of a little more houshold∣stuffe, we might very well set vp for our selues, and kill our flesh within our owne doores, and make our market within our owne liberties, which could not choose but be much more gainfull vnto vs. On the other side our hostesse did fleece vs, it seeming vnto her, that she had good reason to licke her fingers, and to dip her h 1.31 sop in our honey, and onely forsooth for her permission and * 1.32 conniuence. But this was not a thing that I sought after, I did not so well like of it, nor did it make for my profit. And I did as little like of my Broaker, for that a better and more beneficiall Opponent sought to sit in that chayre, which he now occupied. And although I knew well enough, that hee proceeded in his dealing like an honest Broaker, yet the case was now otherwise with me, it was quite altered, and come about another way. For I would part with that to day for three, for the which to morrow I would not take tenne. Men must sell i 1.33 according to the season, and make their market as the time serues. Nor is * 1.34 it materiall that such a one be an honest man in this or that particular, if I haue more need of another for my purpose. For it little importeth, that a Taylor, who is to make me vp a handsome sute of cloathes should be a good Musitian; nor that a Physitian, who is to treat of my health, should be a famous player at Chesse. Money, more and more money, was that which I lookt after, and not honesty, and greatnesse of alliance, or good acquaintance.

That which was not of much profit, was to me tedious, and distastfull. For I could not content my selfe with onely necessary food and apparell; I must liue like a King; I was to be courted with extraordinary kindnesses; and that they should buy at its weight in gold, the chaire wherein I should giue them leaue to sit, the sweet conuersation that they were to inioy, the good lookes that were cast vpon them, our permitting them to come into our house; and aboue all, the liberty which I left vnto them, by going forth my selfe, to giue them the freer accesse. And this our honest Broaker could not doe. Hee was willing to lead vs still along by that plaine song, which hee beganne withall, when he grew first acquainted with vs: as if it had beene an imposition of some perpetuall tribute, which was so passe for euer, after one and the selfe∣same forme.

I had now found out one, who did farre surpasse him both in wealth, and in merit, and was much more for my aduantage; onely that difference did pre∣sent it selfe to mine imagination, which there is between Hauing and Wishing; the present possession of a thing, or the desiring to possesse it. As also that I knew not how to goe to this amorous Gentleman, to giue him to vnderstand, * 1.35 that I should be very glad to embrace his friendship. And better is one k 1.36 bird in the hand then two in the bush. I knew full well, and it plainely appeares vnto me, that he did much desire her, and had a moneths mind to haue a fling at her; but he was a stranger, and durst not aduenture on the businesse. And for me to animate him on to this geare, had beene to make him the lesse to * 1.37 esteeme of it. And to leaue the other, that was taken already in the net, had beene folly, if not madnesse. For better is stale l 1.38 bread, then none at all. So

that I durst neither take nor leaue. Thus did things passe for a while, waiting still when that happy day would come.

I did vsually frequent your Ordinaries, and houses of gaming, one while playing my selfe, another while expecting something to be giuen me for good lucks sake, by those that had a good hand, asking now and then, something of those that haue beene my ancient friends and acquaintance. And what with that which they gaue me, and that which my selfe had scraped together, I took occasion, when the Broaker was with vs at our house, to giue it to my wife to spend as she saw cause, because he should not know the weaknesse of my estate; or to conceiue, that I willingly gaue way to his Visites out of meere want, and to maintaine my selfe at his cost; but he was no sooner gone from thence, but I presently demanded the same money againe of my wife, to goe to play. And shee did not onely returne mee that, but much more. So that alwayes be∣fore him, I bare my selfe like a Lord of mine owne will, without leauing any gap open vnto him, whereby he might haue entrance to lose his respect towards me.

This stranger on the other side, went for his part sucking-in the ayre, and (as it is in the Prouerbe) drinking m 1.39 downe the windes; vsing extraordinary dili∣gences * 1.40 to gaine our good will; and euery one of vs on all sides, working vpon all aduantages, to effect our seuerall intents. But I, for my part, being very carefull to auoid all disasters, especially that might fall out in mine owne house; and for the better preuenting of dis-order, was much afraid, and wonderfull loth, that two should tread together in one and the same path; as one that knew by experience, that one Kingdome would not admit of two n 1.41 Heads; nor two birds o 1.42 make their nest together in one hole. Nor durst my vvife likewise con∣sent thereunto, being vnwilling to haue more sacks brought to her mill, then she could vvell grinde, it going much against her stomacke to bee put in the Grammer rules for a common of three. Till at last, we perceiuing that this would make well for vs, and that by how much the more the Broaker did slacken his string, so much the more the stranger did straine to shoot home, drawing his bow for that purpose to a good round compasse; for presents, iewels, moneys, and banquets, like so many arrowes, came thicke one vpon another, in hope at last to hit the marke. I began now to looke bigge vpon the matter, and to talke in a higher straine, saying; That I was not minded to pay a rent any longer for my lodgings, being that I was able to keepe house of my selfe. So the siege was raised, my old Hostesse and I parted, and began to set vp shop wholly for my selfe. * 1.43

The stranger made me a thousand ducks and congies, saluting me, where∣soeuer he met me, with a great deale of respect; and I on the contrary lookt on the Broaker with a scornefull and disdainfull eye, showing as dogged a coun∣tenance towards him, as I could possibly put on. And by how much the more * 1.44 the one did seeke to draw me after him; so much the more I stroue to shake off the other.

Till at last, growing weary of him, I came and told him, that if I had now taken a house of mine owne, and had left that which hee wisht mee vnto, I had onely done it, that I might bee sole master of mine owne house, that I might goe and come at my pleasure, and be either cloathed or naked, as I saw cause, vnseene or ouer-looked by others. And that hee should doe mee a fauour to come now and then and see me, when I should bee at best leisure to receiue him, and not when I had earnest occasion of businesse. For neither I, nor my wife could alwayes be in disposition to re∣ceiue Visits.

The poore man was so out of countenance with this answer, and tooke it so * 1.45 ill at my hands, that neuer after would hee offer to put his foore within my doores, except by the mediation of his friend, she that had beene our Hostesse,

and that also very seldome, some once (as we say) in a thousand yeares, when he could doe it handsomely, and my wife was best at leasure, neither my selfe, nor any body else, being then at home.

Now, our stranger being so open-handed and liberall as hee was, I was for∣ced to carry my selfe fairely towards him, for hee was well able to goe through thicke and thinne, and if he held on that round pace that hee beganne, there was great hope that he would quickly bring vs out of the mire, and that wee should happely arriue to our intended iourney, and so it fell out. For my wife, showing him but a good looke, when they two were alone, hee did so highly esteeme of euery slight fauour that she afforded him, that he would requite her kindnesses with their waight in gold.

We entred into a great league of friendship; he inuited me to his house, and when I had taken my leaue of him, hee would send home after me many, and those very good, dishes of meat, which serued very well to furnish our owne table, taking secret order with those his seruants, that carried them thither, that they should not bring them backe againe, but leaue them there, though they were all of siluer.

I was not offended at this, but it did somewhat trouble mee, that he should doe it so openly; for there is no man so blockish, that doth not perceiue, when such things as these are done, it is not à humo de pajas, for Moone-shine in * 1.46 the water, nor for a mans good lookes.

It is a braue thing, when a rich Gallant shall intertaine my wife with great presents, and whatsoeuer else that may giue her content, and that I may not know the end why he does it. But I was well enough contented therewithall, and all other Witals doe the like. He sayes not true, who sayes it grieues him; for if it did grieue him; he would neuer giue way vnto it. If I were glad there∣of, and gaue my consent that my wife should kindly intertaine him; if I suffe∣red her to goe abroad, and was well pleased when she return'd, to see her come home laden with iewels, or with a new gowne, or with some delicate sweet∣meats, brought from the banquet that was made for her; & if my shame was so little, that I could fall heartily to them, and eate my part of them, and could dissemble all this, and much more; they likewise doe the like; neither will they, nor can they clap the hornes on my head, and thinke to goe without them them-selues. For I must assure them, that I vnderstand them, and they vnderstand me.

But this was the mischiefe of it, that when they saw me walke the street so well clad, with a iewell in my hat, and a hat-band sutable vnto it, garuished with stones of good value; they would say as I past by them; and that so loud, that I might very well heare it; What rich stones hath Guzman in his hat? O what a glorious show they make; but doe you marke how that same Cornix doth out-shine all the rest? And perhaps some of these which said this of me, did enuie my good fortune; and others, like your Goates, did not see their owne hornes, though all the world besides did see them.

This stranger of ours, did purchase our libertie, and he had such store of wealth, that now my house was for no body else, but him. But I had alwayes a care to keepe my decorum, entertayning his friendship, and maintayning mine owne credit. The goods in my house, did like froath, gather daily more and more increase. I had both winter and summer hangings, peeces of Arras, wrought in Bruxells, others of branched Damaske interwouen with tinsell, beds of Damaske, Canopies, & quilts of the same, Turkie carpets to tread vpon, pillow-cushions for my wifes estrado, when shee was pleas'd to sit in State; and many other moueables, that might well beseeme some great Lord. The table that I kept, and the house that I maintaynde, did not (I assure you) stand mee in lesse then two thousand Crownes a yeare. And when I was dispo∣sed to make my good Master almost ready to runne madde, (which I was

sometimes wont to doe, especially vpon festiuall dayes) I would, as soone as we had din'de, command the Gitterne to bee brought in, and laid vpon the boord, and then looking cheerefully vpon my Wife, I would say vnto her; I prethee (good Grace) if thou beest a good Wench, doe vs the kindnesse to be∣stow a Song vpon vs, it is a Holiday to day, & therefore I prethee do not stick with vs: but let vs haue it quickly, and with a good-will. For otherwise, it was a wonder to see her take her Instrument in her hand. And still in my presence, when-soeuer I caus'd her to sing, (howbeit she knew, that I knew all, and that nothing was hidden from me) shee would carry her selfe very soberly and de∣cently, keeping alwayes a settled and composed countenance, and was as care∣full (as if her life had layne vpon it) that I might not perceiue any thing to come from her, either in her lookes, or her gesture, that might giue me any the least cause to interpret it as an affront, or should otherwise force mee to make demonstration, that I tooke any dislike at it. Each of vs did vnderstand our selues; and both one another; though we would not seeme to vnderstand any thing, or make any show thereof to the world. With this Shooing-Horne somtimes we drew on our good Master, which cost him many a faire Crowne.

I liu'd like a yong Prince; Siluer dishes did runne vpon wheeles round about my house; one tumbled heere, and another there. My Coffers could not containe those rich imbroideries, and the rest of my wardrobe; some of sun∣dry sorts of Cloth of Gold, and others of Silkes, that were full of variety: my Cabinets were cramm'd full of Iewels, precious Stones, and other curiosi∣ties; I neuer wanted money to game, I did triumph in plenty, and had good Cards in my hand to trumpe about; And for this cause▪ our friends did inioy their liberty; for I perceiuing, that it was not fit for mee to enter into mine owne house, (which I knew, as oft as I found the doore shut) I past by it, and went abroad a walking, vntill a more conuenient time did offer it selfe; and seeing, when I returned home, that the doore was open, it was a signe vnto me that the coast was cleere, and that they had past the time away in good con∣uersation: wherevpon I boldly went in, and sitting down, we all fell a talking of some one thing or other, as occasion offered.

Thou seest all this my happinesse; the fairenesse of the weather; the fresh∣nesse of the winde; thou seest how fauourable Fortune was vnto mee; how she smil'd, and laught vpon me; how franke, and liberall she was towards me. But it succeeded in the end no lesse vnhappily with mee, then all things else which I vnder-went by euill meanes. Nor doe I thinke, that any man can escape such flawes as these, whosoeuer hee shall be, that shall sayle in the same Ocean.

Vpon the fame of this so rare a piece of beauty, and the large licence that I * 1.47 had giuen her, some Princes, and Gentlemen belonging to the Court, assumed the more liberty to themselues, who had smelt out what a hungry and sauou∣ry sent this rasher on the coales had with it; they walke their Stations before my house, messages are sent to and fro; how-beit I am verily perswaded, that there was neuer any friendship strooken with them, nor any iust cause giuen, whereat our yong Master might deseruedly take offence. Yet notwithstanding, seeing himselfe thus persecuted, and as it were out-brau'd by others, that were mightier and more powerfull then himselfe, in wealth, linage, and gallantry; he grew so exceeding iealous there-vpon, that he was ready to runne out of his wits, and had almost vtterly lost his iudgement. He went about at the first to straine himselfe to stand in competition against them all, exercising to this end, extraordinarie liberalitie towards vs; presenting vs with gifts of great price, amounting to thousands of Ducats; but when hee saw, that hee could not contest with them, nor bee able to resist so great force and power as theirs was, vn-constrained, without cause, or any other iust ex∣ception in the world, saue onely what his owne iealousie did suggest to his

weake consideration, he by little and little fell off, and began to retire him∣selfe, frighted thus from vs onely with a vaine shadow.

And sometimes I went considering with my selfe, what a strange kinde of foole this was, that in his heatfull humour, set on fire with filthy Lust, hee should so eagerly follow the chase, and hunt with that violence after such dis∣honesties as these, to his both so great cost, and vexation of minde. I laught at him, as also at the poorenesse of his wit and iudgement. For if one or the Malds of my house had come vnto him, crauing something of him that was of good worth, hee would very willingly and freely bestow it vpon them; but if by chance a poore man should come vnto him, and begge but halfe a Royall of him for Gods sake, he would not sticke to deny it him. All of vs receiued the reward wee deserued, we were paid in our owne coyne: The Master whom wee serued, for to inrich vs, had made himselfe poore; and we, through our ill gouernment, could not continue rich; so that like ruinous buildings, we fell altogether to the ground. Our first man had left the field and was fled, and now those other Gallants come on amaine: for the grea∣ter those persons are, who are priuy to their greatnesse, and truely vnderstand their owne strength and worth; so much the more free they are in that which they pretend, and thinke that all other men must giue way to them.

I could haue told them, or demanded of them; Sir, what seruice doe I * 1.48 owe you? What haue you throwne vpon mee, whereby to binde me vnto you? What good did you euer doe mee? Why then should you expect, that I should wait vpon you with my workes, words, and thoughts? And which is worst of all; besides that they are bad Pay-masters, they vse vs harshly, and beare themselues so proudly, as if we were in debt to them, and had an exe∣cution to enter by force vpon my house, my wife, and all that I had. So law∣lesse was this their liberty, so vnciuill their proceeding, that within a few dayes after we fell into the hands of the Iustice.

A graue Minister of the State came to know what had past amongst vs; * 1.49 You may haply haue heard, how the Lyon once vpon a time, hauing ad∣mitted all the other beasts into his Company, and hauing in a generall hun∣ting kill'd a Hart, when they came to the distribution and sharing of it, he out of his absolute authoritie, and Princely prerogatiue, adiudg'd it whol∣ly to himselfe.

Iust so did this Minister deale with mee. And that hee might haue some∣what * 1.50 the better colour to doe as he did, he began (Lyon-like) with a little roaring, as if hee had meant to quarrell with vs. When I knew the course where-vnto hee tended, I presently had recourse vnto him, complaining of such and such wrongs that were offered vnto me, boasting my selfe to bee a Gentleman, and one that was anciently descended of the Gothes. And hee (cunning as he was) who desired nothing more, then that I should thus come vnto him, gaue me kinde entertainment, and causing me to sit downe side by side with him, he began to aske of me what Country-man I was? I told him that I was of Seuill. O (said hee) of Seuill? The best Countrey in all the world.

Then began he to treat of that Citie, indearing it very much vnto mee, as if, by his commendation of it, I should haue receiued a great deale of honour, or profit thereby. Hee demanded of mee what my Parents were, and how they were called? And when I had named them vnto him; he told mee, that they had beene his very good friends, and acquaintance, making a long dis∣course vnto me, how when he was Iudge there, he had sentenced a certaine sute in his fauour. And he farther told mee, that he did assure himselfe, that my Mother was still liuing, to whom hee was well knowne in her yonger dayes. In a word, hee proceeded so farre with me in these and like kinde of complements, that there was nothing wanting to make it full and complete,

but his acknowledging himselfe to be my neere Kinsman. Which I did still looke for, especially when I saw him come to such particulars, and that hee could tell me such and such tokens; which made me to say with my selfe, Omnia possunt potentes. What cannot your great men doe? And now I am falne vpon this Theame, I cannot but call to minde a certaine Iudge, who ha∣uing most faithfully vs'd his Iudicature, and exercised his Office with a great * 1.51 deale of integritie, his time of residencie being expired, and that he was to render an account (as the custome is) of his Gouernment, they could not charge him with anything, saue only for his wenching, and for being a little too much subiect to this humane frailtie; for which, being sharpely repre∣hended, he made answer; That when he was recommended by them to this Office, they had only giuen him in charge, that hee should deale vprightly, and truly administer Iustice, which he most faithfully performed, and that no man could taxe him of the contrary. Would yee therefore be pleased to peruse my Letters, and to looke vpon the Contents of my Commission, and if there (amongst other my instructions) you shall finde that I was by vertue of them, inioyned Chastitie, I shall most willingly submit my selfe to your censure, and indure such punishment as yee shall be pleased to inflict vpon me. So that, because this clause was not expresly specified in his Commissi∣on, nor any particular mention made thereof; it seemeth vnto these kinde of men, that they doe not faile in their dutie, nor doe any thing contrary to their Office, though they sweepe (as they say) a whole street before them, and doe otherwise vndoe a Countrie: As did a certaine Iudge, who hauing destowred * 1.52 about some thirtie Maidens, and amongst those, the daughter of a poore wo∣man, who when she saw what wrong he had done her, shee went vnto him, and besought him, that since he had done, or vndone her daughter, that hee would be pleased to returne her home vnto her, to the end that her dis∣honour might not be diuulged.

Whereupon, he taking a Royall of a 1.53 eight out of his Purse, said vnto her: Good woman, I know nothing concerning your daughter; Lo, here be eight Royals for you, take you these, and get you some Masses to be said to S. Antonio of Padua, that he may doe you the fauour to recouer her lost mai∣den-head. A very good amends. I doe not know to whom this may seeme to bee well done. Doe thou tell me if thou canst. I am almost at my wits end, to thinke on the small punishment, that is inflicted vpon such great faults.

He commanded me to get me home to my house, proffering (out of his loue vnto me) to doe me many fauours, and that hee should count himselfe very happy, if at any time it should lie in his power to doe mee a courtesie. For it was a sufficient motiue vnto him, to binde him vnto me, that I was of Seuill, and the sonne of such parents; and that as well in this, as all other occasions, hee would assist mee all that he could, and afford mee his best fa∣uour.

With this faire answer I got me home. And within a few dayes after, when * 1.54 I and my wife were all alone, and thought our selues secure, not thinking on any thing in the world, much lesse dreaming of his comming thither, behold, one night, when he walked the Round, he came to our doore, and comman∣ding one of his people to knocke thereat, vpon answer giuen, they askt for me; intreating a Iarre of water of me for his Worship. I well knew where his thirst lay; Whereupon I earnestly besought him, that he would doe me the honour to come in, that he might sit, and take his drinke, and not (like beggers) to take it without doores. He desired nothing more, this was that which he lookt for. He comes in, and when hee was sate, some Conserues were brought him to sweeten his mouth, which hauing tasted, he tooke the Iarre and dranke. Then began he to enter into Discourse, telling vs, that he had walked himselfe weary, and that he had seene that night many faire women,

but none that came neere my wife. He said farther, that he had heard her ex∣ceedingly commended for her good voyce. I then will'd her to take her Vi∣oll, and seeing his Worship was pleased to giue her the hearing, that shee should sing some one song or other, which she thought fit. Which shee did without any coynesse, or straining courtesie; it seeming vnto vs both, that it would much aduantage vs, to get so great a person to be our friend, who might be ready to stead vs vpon all occasions. The man was astonished, as well with the seeing, as the hearing of her; & when he was to take his leaue, he willed me to come now and then to see him, and that I should make my selfe no stranger. With that, he went his way; and I and my wife began to talke as well of this, as other things that had past; and how farre forth this his fauour might be a meanes, to make vs hereafter be more both respected and feared. I did visit him sometimes: and one day among the rest, carelesse of any thing that might befall me, he said vnto me; How happens it (Guzman) whilest I am yet liuing, (for men are mortall, and I may die before I shall bee able to doe thee any good, if it be not done the sooner) that thou doest not make vse of my fauour, and sue vnto me for some Commission, that may be both honourable and profitable vnto thee? I told him, that I held my selfe much bound vnto him, and that I should euer rest thankfull for this expressi∣on of his loue and fauour towards me, but because I was loath to be trouble∣some vnto him, as also for that I had not as yet serued him in any thing, whereby to deserue any the least kindenesse from him, I had forborne to moue him in things of this nature. He then selling me the friendship of my father and mother, (though this his kindenesse towards me, proceeded more from his loue to my wife then my selfe) he offred me a Commission; telling me, that it would be very beneficiall vnto me. I thank't him for it, though * 1.55 this was the Induction to all my future mis-fortunes. For within two dayes after, he puts those papers into my hands, with order for the recouery of certaine debts that were due to the Exchequer. The which he had procured (begging it for me) of an especiall good friend of his, a great man in his place, and one that assisted in that Court; telling him that I was a friend of his, and a well-deseruing Person, worthy to be imployed in waightie mat∣ters, as should appeare by that good satisfaction, which I should giue both of my person and imployment.

When I had my Dispatch, I went from home, but (I must confesse) sore against my will; I carried along with me eight hundred Marauedis, which I had by way of salarie, or stipend; and for that I had euer beene accusto∣med to fare well, I knew not how to begin to frame my selfe to liue with this poore allowance, much lesse to be able to put money in my Purse, or to hoord vp to carry, or send home any thing to my house. But I saw now, that there was no other remedie, and must of force doe as I did: and so for auoy∣ding of farther mischiefe, I held my peace, and accepted of it. Partime, v perdime, My departure was my destruction. And when I went away, all went awry. For it seemed vnto this kinde Master of mine, that he might get himselfe slaues at other mens cost to doe him seruice, and that with these eight hundred Marauedis, I might part shares with my wife, and maintaine two houses, and that this would be a sufficient recompence for vs; out of which respect, he was not only willing to be exempted from all other taxes and tri∣butes belonging vnto vs; but also, that my wife should not looke out to see the Sunne, nor to receiue any Visits, but only his. He sought to be so absolute a Iudge ouer any thing that was mine, and did so wring and pinch vs, that I and my familie were ready to starue for hunger, so that we were driuen dayly to goe selling some of our hous-hold stuffe, for to put bread in our mouthes. * 1.56

My wife (who was now become his Hostesse) could not liue by these reck∣nings, it was no good account for her, to indure so much subiection, and to be

tyed to so short prouision. She first began to shew some dislike of this his imperious, yet base dealing; and also many times of purpose refused to see him; hiding her selfe out of the way, vsing the helpe of a great friend of hers, who still made her excuse, when she was disposed that he should not come at her: For she thought she should haue made her selfe by this market; but it proued otherwise.

But when this new Master of mine perceiued the euill correspondence which she held with him, thinking with him-selfe, that my presence would quickly remedie all this, and bring the Bowle to it's old bias, he presently gaue order, that there should be no more Prorogations granted vnto me, and that I should be commanded to giue an account of that which I had done. They put me to it, and I did it; more willingly resigning vp my Office, then I tooke it vpon me; for I found my state therby much impawned, and my house much waited and consumed. He thought that my presence should haue beene the only remedie to giue him content, and that he might the better inioy all things to his owne liking; but it fell out farre otherwise, for by my presence, his expence increased, and wee had the better meanes to make it rise. Hee was much troubled here-with, and knew not in the world how to mend himselfe; and conceiuing with himselfe, that nothing would worke vs bet∣ter to his will then rigour, then to put vs to our shifts, that we might come Cap in hand, crouching vnto him, and that with our armes acrosse, and teares in our eyes, we should come and cry him mercy, and intreat his fauour; he treated with his Colleagues and fellow Officers, to banish vs the Court; and so accordingly it was notified vnto vs. I began to cast vp my recknings, and made this account with my selfe; This Lord Iudge takes himselfe to bee * 1.57 such a great man, that he thinkes, he does me a great fauour, in putting mee to maintaine his House, and procure his pleasure, selling him that for a song, which I haue bought with so many affronts, and scraped together with such a deale of toyle.

Againe, it will doe me no good to stay here, if I may not haue free leaue to make the best of mine owne Commodities. It will be the lesser euill (thought I with my selfe) to obey this banishment, and to be packing, then to tarry here to no purpose. For though it were hard measure that was offred vnto vs, and did pinch vs somewhat; yet I knew it would wring him much more, nay gall him to the very heart. For, though we lost one of our owne eyes, yet we had put out both his. For he mist of his marke; he had taken the wrong Sow by the eare, and all went kim-kam, cleane contrary to his expectation. So this poore silly asse, thinking to bang vs, had made a Cudgell for his owne sides. Besides, at the end of that yeere, those ten yeeres were to be expired, wherein I was to giue my Creditors satisfaction.

All these things had I laid together, and thorowly weigh'd them with my selfe. I knew like wise that my Mother was aliue; so on the sudden I hired a Coach for our owne persons, and two Carts, for to carry our stuffe, and our people, leauing the Court and the Courtiers to themselues, bidding them farewell for euer. Thinking with my selfe, that those that came from Peru, flush with their gold and siluer, would proue a great deale more profitable for vs. And so we went quietly along to Seuill.

Notes

• * 1.1

  A discourse of Loue.
• * 1.2

  Fortior est qui se, qua•…•… qui fortissima vin∣cit 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.3

  Reason many times made sub∣iect to our sensu∣all Appetite.
• * 1.4

  Men may sodain∣ly fall in loue.
• * 1.5

  Of Reason, Vn∣derstanding, and the Will.
• * 1.6

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.7

  Prouerbe.
• a 1.8

  Los, que no gozan de sue∣gro, no gazan de cosa buena.
• * 1.9

  Wiues with great porcions looke for large mainte∣nance.
• * 1.10

  Guzman his bappinesse.
• * 1.11

  The mutable ef∣fects of fortune.
• * 1.12

  Guzmans fa∣ther-in-law, what manner of man he was.
• * 1.13

  A tale of a poore fellow in Seuill, that lou'd to fare well.
• * 1.14

  Guzmans mise∣rable estate.
• * 1.15

  Prouerbe.
• b 1.16

  Quien es de tu officio esse es tu enemigo.
• * 1.17

  Guzman studies physicke.
• c 1.18

  The Spanish phrase is, Huy del peregil, y naçia me en la frente.
• * 1.19

  The property of Comin-seed.
• * 1.20

  Women apt to take too much liberty.
• * 1.21

  Guzman driuen to base courses, and vpon what reason.
• * 1.22

  Want, a great enemie to good∣nesse.
• * 1.23

  Prouerbe.
• d 1.24

  No puede ser el co•…•…vo mas negro, que las alas.
• * 1.25

  Wenches haue better trading in Court, then in the Vniuersitie.
• * 1.26

  A base part of a Wittall.
• e 1.27

  Tres anades madre, passan por aqui, Mal penan à mi. It is an ancient and common song in Spaine: And when men trauaile merrily on the way, and laugh and be Io∣uiall, we vsually say, That they goe singing, Tres anades madre, Three ducks &c. Covarr. pag. 67.
• * 1.28

  A Broaker insi∣nuates him-selfe into Guzmans and his wifes ac∣quaintance.
• f 1.29

  In Spaine they vse at their Co∣medies to enter∣taine the women they bring thi∣ther with good wines cooled with snow, and sweet∣meats.
• g 1.30

  New sweet wine.
• h 1.31

  Avia de me∣ter sopa, y mo∣jar •…•…la miel.
• * 1.32

  Prouerbe.
• i 1.33

  Eltiempoes elque lo vende.
• * 1.34

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.35

  Prouerbe.
• k 1.36

  Tienes, a qui eres.
• * 1.37

  Prouerbe.
• l 1.38

  Mejores pan duro, que nin∣guno.
• m 1.39

  Beuer los vientos. To drinke in the wind, is to de∣sire a thing with great earnest∣nesse. And be∣cause the wan∣ting of it, till we come to at∣taine vnto it, causeth anguish and vexation to the heart, a man must of force fetch his breath thicke, insomuch that he seemeth to sup in the aire, and to drinke downe the wind. Covarr. verb. viento.
• * 1.40

  Prouerbe.
• n 1.41

  No sufre dos cabeças vn gouierno.
• o 1.42

  No•…•…e a•…•…dan bien dos paxa∣ros juntos en vn agujero.
• * 1.43

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.44

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.45

  Guzman shakes off the Broaker, to intertaine a new Gallant.
• * 1.46

  Prouerbe.
• * 1.47

  The Courtiers court Guzmans wise.
• * 1.48

  The condition of great men.
• * 1.49

  A Fable of the Lyon.
• * 1.50

  A Iudge fals in loue with Guz∣mans Wife.
• * 1.51

  Of a Iudge that was giuen to wanto•…•…nesse.
• * 1.52

  Of a Iudge that was a d•…•…owrer of Virgias.
• a 1.53

  A piece of foure shillings.
• * 1.54

  Of a Iudge that was in authority.
• * 1.55

  Guzman im∣ployd in Commis∣sions, for the Councell, de la hazienda. The Councell de la hazienda is of the same na∣ture with the Barons of our Kings Exchequer
• * 1.56

  Guzmans Wife likes not the Iudges miserable proceeding.
• * 1.57

  Guzman bani∣shed Madrid.