The decameron containing an hundred pleasant nouels. Wittily discoursed, betweene seauen honourable ladies, and three noble gentlemen.

The Induction.

EARELY on the Sonday Morning, Aurora shewing her selfe bright and louely; the Sunnes Golden beames beganne to appeare, on the toppes of the neere adioyning Mountaines▪ so, that Hearbes, Plants, Trees, and all things else, were verie euidently to be discerned. The Queene and her Companie, being all come foorth of their Chambers, and hauing walked a vvhile abroad, in the goodly greene Meadowes, to taste the sweetnesse of the fresh and wholesome ayrethey re∣turned backe againe into the Palace, because it was their dutie so to do.

Afterward, betweene the houres of seauen and eight, they went to heare Masse▪ in a faire Chappell ••eere at hand, and thence returned to their Lodgings. When they had dined merrily together, they fell to their won∣ted singing and dauncing: Which beeing done, such as were so pleased (by License of the Queene first obtained) went either to their rest, or such exercises as they tooke most delight in. When midday, and the heate thereof was well ouer-past, so that the aire seemed mild and tem∣perate: according as the Queene had commanded; they were all seated againe about the Fountaine, with intent to prosecute their former pastime. And then Madame Neiphila, by the charge imposed on her, as first speaker for this day, beganne as followeth.

Gulfardo made a match or wager, with the Wife of Gasparuolo, for the obtaining of her amorous fauour, in regard of a summe of money first to be giuen her. The money hee borrowed of her Husband, and gaue it in payment to her, as in case of discharging him from her Husbands debt After his returne home from Geneway, hee told him in the presence of his Wife, how he had payde the whole summe to her, with charge of deli∣uering it to her Husband, which she confessed to be true, albeit greatly against her will.

The First Nouell.

Wherein is declared, that such women as will make sale of their honestie, are sometimes ouer-reached in their payment, and iustly serued as they should be.

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SEeing it is my fortune, Gracious Ladies, that I must giue be∣ginning to this dayes discoursing, by some such Nouel which I thinke expedient; as duty bindeth me, I am therewith well contented. And because the deceits of Women to men, haue beene at large and liberally related; I will tell you a subtile tricke of a man to a Woman. Not that I blame him for the deede, or thinke the deceyte not well fitted to the woman: but I speake it in a contrarie nature, as commending the man, and condemning the woman very iustly, as also to shew, how men can as well beguile those crafty companions, which least beleeue any such cunning in them, as they that stand most on their artificiall skill.

Howbeit, to speake more properly, the matter by me to be reported, deserueth not the reproachfull title of deceite, but rather of a recom∣pence

duly returned: because women ought to be chaste and honest, & to preserue their honour as their liues, without yeelding to the conta∣mination thereof, for any occasion whatsoeuer. And yet (neuerthe∣lesse (in regard of our frailty) many times we prooue not so constant as we should be: yet I am of opinion, that she which selleth her honestie for money, deserueth iustly to be burned. Whereas on the contrary, she that falleth into the offence, onely through intirc affection (the po∣werfull lawes of Loue beeing aboue all resistance) in equity meriteth pardon, especially of a Iudge not ouer-rigorous: as not long since wee heard from Philostratus, in reuealing what hapned to Madam Phillippa de Prato, vpon the dangerous Edict.

Vnderstand then, my most worthy Auditors, that there liued some∣time in Millaine an Almaigne Soldiour, named Gulfardo, of commen∣dable carriage in his person, and very faithfull to such as he serued, a matter not common among the Al••aignes. And because he made iust repayment, to euery one which lent him monies; he grew to such espe∣ciall credit, and was so familiar with the very best Marchants; as (manie times) he could not be so ready to borrow, as they were willing alwaies to lend him. He thus continuing in the Cittie of Millaine, fastened his affection on a verie beautifull Gentlewoman, named Mistresse Ambro∣sia, Wife vnto a rich Merchant, who was called Signior Gasparuolo Sa∣gastraccio, who had good knowledge of him, and respectiuely vsed him. Louing this Gentlewoman with great discretion, without the least ap∣prehension of her husband: he sent vpon a day to entreate conference with her, for enioying the fruition of her loue, and she should find him ready to fulfill whatsoeuer she pleased to command him, as, at any time he would make good his promise.

The Gentlewoman, after diuers of these priuate solicitings, resolute∣ly answered, that she was as ready to fulfill the request of Gulfardo, pro∣uided, that two especiall considerations might ensue thereon. First, the faithfull concealing thereof from any person liuing. Next, because she knew him to be rich, and she had occasion to vse two hundred Crowns, about businesse of important consequence: he should freely bestow so many on her, and (euer after) she was to be commanded by him. Gul∣fardo perceiuing the couetousnesse of this woman, who (notwithstan∣ding his doting affection) he thought to be intirely honest to her Hus∣band: became so deepely offended at her vile answere, that his feruent loue conuerted into as earnest loathing her; determining constantlie to deceiue her, and to make her auaritious motion, the only means wher∣by to effect it.

He sent her word, that he was willing to performe her request, or a∣ny farre greater matter for her: in which respect, he onely desired for to know, when she would be pleased to haue him come see her, and to re∣ceiue the money of him? No creature hee acquainted with his setled purpose, but onely a deere friend and kinde companion, who alwayes vsed to keepe him company, in the neerest occasions that concerned

him. The Gentlewoman, or rather most disloyall wife, vppon this an∣swer sent her, was extraordinarily iocond and contented, returning him a secret Letter, wherein she signified: that Gasparuolo her husband, had important affaires which called him to Geneway: but he should vnder∣stand of his departure, and then (with safety) he might come see her, as also his bringing of the Crownes.

In the meane while, Gulfardo hauing determined what he would do, watched a conuenient time, when he went vnto Gasparuolo, and sayde: Sir, I haue some businesse of maine importance, and shall neede to vse but two hundred Crownes onely: I desire you to lend me so many Crownes, vp∣on such profite as you were wont to take of mee, at other times when I haue made vse of you, and I shall not faile you at my day.

Gasparuolo was well contented with the motion, and made no more adoe, but counted downe the Crownes: departing thence (within few dayes after) for Geneway, acording to his Wiues former message; she gi∣uing Gulfardo also intelligence of his absence, that now (with safety) hee might come see her, and bring the two hundred Crownes with him.

Gulfardo, taking his friend in his company, went to visite Mistresse Ambrosia, whom he found in expectation of his arriuall, and the first thing he did, he counted downe the two hundred Crownes; and deli∣uering them to her in the presence of his friend, saide: Mistresse Ambro∣sia, receiue these two hundred Crownes, which I desire you to pay vnto your Husband on my behalfe, when he is returned from Geneway. Ambro∣sia, receyued the two hundred Crownes, not regarding wherefore Gul∣fardo vsed these words: because shee verily beleeued, that hee spake in such manner, because his friend should take no notice, of his giuing them to her, vpon any couenant passed betweene them; whereuppon, she sayde. Sir, I will pay them to my Husband for you; and cause him to giue you a sufficient discharge: but first I will count them ouer my selfe, to see whether the summe be iust, or no. And hauing drawne them ouer vpon the Table, the summe containing truly two hundred Crownes (wherewith she was most highly contented) she lockt them safe vppe in her Cuppe∣boord, and Gulfardoes Friend being gone (as formerly it was compac∣ted betweene them) shee came to conuerse more familiarly with him, hauing prouided a banquet for him. What passed between them after∣ward, both then, and oftentimes beside, before her Husbande returned home, is a matter out of my element, and rather requires my ignorance then knowledge.

When Gasparuolo was come from Geneway, Gulfardo obseruing a conuenient time, when he was sitting at the doore with his Wife; tooke his Friend with him, and comming to Gasparuolo, said. Worthy Sir, the two hundred Crownes vvhich you lent me, before your iourny to Geneway, in regard they could not serue my turne, to compasse the businesse for which I borrowed them: vvithin a day or two after, in the presence of this Gentle man my friend, I made repayment of them to your Wife, and therefore I pray you crosse me out of your booke.

Gasparuolo turning to his Wife, demanded; Whether it was so, or no? She beholding the witnesse standing by, who was also present at her receyuing them: durst not make deniall, but thus answered. Indeede Husband, I receiued two hundred Crownes of the Gentleman, and neuer remembred, to acquaint you therewith since your comming home: but here∣after I will be made no more your receiuer, except I carried a quicker me∣mory.

Then saide Gasparuolo: Signior Gulfardo, I finde you alwaies a most honest Gentleman, and will be readie at any time, to doe you the like, or a farre greater kindnesse; depart at your pleasure, and feare not the crossing of my Booke. So Gulfardo went away merily contented, and Ambrosia was serued as she iustly merited; she paying the price of her owne leud∣nesse to her Husband, which she had a more couetous intent to keepe, questionlesse, not caring how many like lustfull matches shee coulde make, to be so liberally rewarded, if this had succeeded to her minde: whereas he shewed himselfe wise and discreete, in paying nothing for his pleasure, and requiting a coue∣tous queane in her kinde.

A lustie youthfull Priest of Varlungo, fell in loue with a pretty woman, na∣med Monna Belcolore. To compasse his amorous desire, hee lefte his Cloake (as a pledge of further payment) with her. By a subtile sleight afterward, he made meanes to borrow a Morter of her, which when hee sent home againe in the presence of her Husband; he demaunded to haue his Cloake sent him, as hauing left it in pawne for the Morter. To pa∣cifie her Husband, offended that shee did not lend the Priest the Morter without a pawne: she sent him backe his Cloake againe, albeit greatly a∣gainst her will.

The Second Nouell.

Approuing, that no promise is to be kept with such Women as will make sale of their honesty for coyne. A warning also for men, not to suffer Priests to be ouer familiar with their wiues.

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BOth the Gentlemen and Ladies gaue equall commendations, of Gulfardoes queint beguiling the Millaine Gentle-woman Ambrosia, and wishing all other (of her minde) might alwaies be so serued. Then the Queene, smiling on Pamphilus, commaunded him to follow next: whereupon, thus he began.

I can tell you (faire Ladies) a short Nouell, against such as are continu∣ally offensiue to vs, yet we being no way able to offend him; at least, in the same maner as they do iniurie vs. And for your better vnderstanding what and who they be, they are our lusty Priests, who aduance their Standard, and make their publike predications against our wiues, winning such ad∣••antage ouer them, that they can pardon them both of the sinne and pun∣nishment, whensoeuer they are once subiected vnto theyr perswasions,

euen as if they brought the Soldane bound and captiued, from Alexandria to Auignon. Which imperious power, we (poore soules) cannot exercise on them, considering, we haue neither heart nor courage, to do our deuoire in iust reuenge on their Mothers, Sisters, Daughters, and Friends, with the like spirit as they rise in armes against our wiues. And therefore, I meane to tell you a tale of a Country mans wife, more to make you laugh at the con∣clusion thereof; then for any singularity of words or matter: yet this bene∣fite you may gaine thereby, of an apparant proofe, that such Sinamon, amo∣rous and perswading Priests, are not alwayes to be credited on their words or promises.

Let me then tell you, that at Varlungo, which you know to bee not farre distant hence, there dwelt an youthfull Priest, lustie, gallant, and proper of person (especially for Womens seruice) commonly called by the name of sweet Sir Simon. Now, albeit he was a man of slender rea∣ding, yet notwithstanding, he had store of Latine sentences by heart; some true, but twice so many maimed and false, Saint-like shewes, holy speeches, and ghostly admonitions, which hee would preach vnder an Oake in the fields, when he had congregated his Parishioners together. When women lay in childe-bed, hee was their daily comfortable visi∣tant, and would man them from their houses, when they had any occa∣sion to walke abroad: carrying alwaies a bottle of holy water about him, wherewith he would sprinkle them by the way, peeces of halow∣ed Candles, and Chrisome Cakes, which pleased women extraordina∣rily, and all the Country affoorded not such another frolicke Priest, as this our nimble and actiue sweet Sir Simon.

Among many other of his feminine Parishioners, all of them being hansome and comely Women: yet there was one more pleasing in his wanton eye, then any of the rest, named Monna Belcolore, and wife to a plaine mecanicke man, called Bentiuegna del Mazzo And, to speake vprightly, few Countrey Villages yeelded a Woman, more fresh and louely of complexion, although not admirable for beauty, yet sweete Sir Simon thoght her a Saint, and faine would be offering at her shrine. Diuers prety pleasing qualities she had, as sounding the Cymball, play∣ing artificially on the Timbrill, and singing thereto as it had beene a Nightingale, dancing also so dexteriously, as happy was the man that could dance in her company. All which so enflamed sweet Sir Simon, that he lost his wonted sprightly behauiour, walked sullen, sad and me∣lancholly, as if he had melted all his mettall, because hee could hardly haue a sight of her. But on the Sonday morning, when hee heard or knew that she was in the Church, hee would tickle it with a Kyrie and a Sanctus, euen as if hee contended to shewe his singular skill in singing, when it had beene as good to heare an Asse bray. Whereas on the con∣trary, when she came not to Church, Masse, and all else were quicklie shaken vppe, as if his deuotion waited onely on her presence. Yet he was so cunning in the carriage of his amorous businesse, both for her credite and his owne; as Bentiuegna her husband could not perceiue it, or any neighbor so much as suspect it.

But, to compasse more familiar acquaintance with Belcolore, hee sent her sundry gifts and presents, day by day, as sometime a bunch of dain∣ty greene Garlicke, whereof he had plenty growing in his Garden, which he manured with his owne hands, and better then all the countrey yeel∣ded; otherwhiles a small basket of Pease or Beanes, and Onyons or Scallions, as the season serued. But when he could come in place where she was; then he darted amourous wincks and glances at her, withbecks, nods, and blushes, Loues priuate Ambassadours, which shee (being but countrey-bred) seeming by outward appearance, not to see, retorted dis∣dainefully, and forthwith would absent her selfe, so that sweet Sir Simon laboured still in vaine, and could not compasse what he coueted.

It came to passe within a while after, that on a time, (about high noone) Sir Simon being walking abroad, chanced to meete with Benti∣uegna, driuing an Asse before him, laden with diuers commodities, and demaunding of him, whither he went, Bentiuegna, thus answered. In troth Sir Simon, I am going to the City, about some especiall businesse of mine owne, and I carry these things to Signior Bonacorci da Ginestreto, because he should helpe me before the Iudge, when I shall be called in questi∣on concerning my patrimony. Sir Simon looking merily on him, said. Thou doest well Bentiuegna, to make a friend sure before thou need him; goe, take my blessing with thee, and returne againe with good successe. But if thou meet with Laguccio, or Naldino, for yet not to tell them, that they must bring me my shooe-tyes before Sunday. Bentiuegna said, hee would dis∣charge his errand, and so parted from him, driuing his Asse on towards Florence.

Now began Sir Simon to shrug, and scratch his head, thinking this to be a fit conuenient time, for him to goe visite Belcolore, and to make tri∣all of his fortune: wherefore, setting aside all other businesse, he stayed no where till he came to the house, whereinto being entred, he saide: All happinesse be to them that dwell heere. Belcolore being then aboue in the Chamber, when she heard his tongue, replyed. Sweet Sir Simon! you are heartely welcome, whether are you walking, if the question may bee demaunded? Beleeue me dainty Ducke, answered Sir Simon, I am come to sit a while with thee, because I met thy Husband going to the Citie. By this time, Belcolore was descended downe the stayres, and hauing once againe giuen welcome to Sir Simon, she sate downe by him, cleansing of Colewort seeds from such other course chaffe, which her Husband had prepared before his departure.

Sir Simon hugging her in his armes, and fetching a vehement sigh, said. My Belcolore, how long shall I pine and languish for thy loue? How now Sir Simon? answered she, is this behauiour fitting for an holy man? Holy-men Belcolore, (quoth Sir Simon) are made of the same matter as others be, they haue the same affections, and therefore subiect to their in∣firmities. Santa Maria, answered, Belcolore, Dare Priests doe such things as you talke of? Yes Belcolore (quoth he) and much better then o∣ther men can, because they are made for the very best businesse, in which re∣gard

they are restrained from marriage True (quoth Belcolore) but much more from medling with other mens wiues. Touch not that Text Belco∣lore, replyed Sir Simon, it is somewhat aboue your capacity: talke of that I come for, namely thy loue, my Ducke, and my Doue, Sir Simon is thine, I pray thee be mine.

Belcolore obseruing his smirking behauiour, his proper person, pretty talke, and queint insinuating; felt a motion to female frailty, which yet she would withstand so long as she could, and not be ouer-hasty in her yeelding. Sir Simon promiseth her a new paire of shoes, garters, rib∣bands, girdles, or what else she would request. Sir Simon (quoth she) all these things which you talke of, are fit for women: but if your loue to mee be such as you make choice of, fulfill what I will motion to you, and then (perhaps) I shall tell you more. Sir Simons heate made him hasty to pro∣mise whatsoeuer she would desire; whereupon, thus shee replyed. On Saturday, said she, I must goe to Florence, to carry home such yarne as was sent me to spinne, and to amend my spinning wheele: if you will lend mee ten Florines, wherewith I know you are alwayes furnished, I shall redeeme from the Vsurer my best peticote, and my wedding gowne (both well neere lost for lacke of repaiment) without which I cannot beseene at Church, or in any other good place else, and then afterward other matters may be accom∣plished.

Alas sweete Belcolore answered Sir Simon, I neuer beare any such sum about me, for men of our profession, doe seldome carry any money at all: but beleeue me on my word, before Saturday come, I will not faile to bring them hither. Oh Sir (quoth Belcolore) you men are quicke promisers, but slow performers. Doe you thinke to vse me, as poore Billezza was, who trusted to as faire words, and found her selfe deceiued? Now Sir Simon, her ex∣ample in being made scandall to the world, is a sufficient warning for me: if you be not so prouided, goe and make vse of your friend, for I am not o∣therwise to be moued. Nay Belcolore (quoth he) I hope you will not serue me so, but my word shall be of better worth with you. Consider the conue∣niency of time, wee being so priuately here alone: whereas at my returning hither againe, some hinderance may thwart me, and the like opportunity be neuer obtained. Sir, Sir, (said she) you haue heard my resolution; if you will fetche the Florines, doe; otherwise, walke about your businesse, for I am a woman of my word.

Sir Simon perceiuing, that she would not trust him vpon bare words, nor any thing was to be done, without Saluum me fac, whereas his mea∣ning was Sine custodia; thus answered. Well Belcolore, seeing you dare not credit my bringing the tenne Florines, according to my promised day: I will leaue you a good pawne, my very best Cloake, lyned quite tho∣rough with rich Silke, and made vp in the choysest manner.

Belcolore looking on the Cloake, said. How much may this Cloake bee worth? How much? quoth Sir Simon, vpon my word Belcolore, it is of a right fine Flanders Serdge, and not aboue eight dayes since, I bought it thus (ready made) of Lotto the Fripperer, and payed for it sixe and twenty Flo∣rines,

a pledge then sufficient for your te••. Is it possible, said shee, that it should cost so much? Well, Sir Simon, deliuer it me first, I will lay it vp safe for you against Saturday, when of you fetch it not; I will redeeme ••ine owne things with it, and leaue you to release it yourselfe.

The Cloake is laid vp by Belcolore, and Sir Simon so forward in his af∣fection; that (in briefe) he enioyed what hee came for; and departed af∣terward in his light tripping Cassocke, but yet thorow by La••ies, and no much frequented places, smelling on a Nosegay, as if hee had beene at some wedding in the Countrey, and went thus lightly without his Cloake, for his better ease. As commonly after actions of euill, Repen∣tance knocketh at the doore of Conscience, and vrgeth a guilty remem∣brance, with some sence of sorrow: so was it now with sweet Sir Simon, who suruaying ouer all his vailes of offering Candles, the validity of his yearely benefits, and all comming nothing neere the summe of (scarce halfe) sixe and twenty Florines; he began to repent his deed of darke∣nesse, although it was acted in the day-time, and considered with him∣selfe, by what honest (yet vnsuspected meanes) hee might recouer his Cloake againe, before it went to the Broaker, in redemption of Belcolo∣res pawned apparrell, and yet to send her no Florines neither.

Hauing a cunning reaching wit, especially in matters for his owne aduantage, and pretending to haue a dinner at his lodging, for a few of some inuited friends: he made vse of a neighbours Boy, sending him to the house of Belcolore, with request of lending him her Stone Morter, to make Greene-sawce in for his guests, because hee had meate required such sawce. Belcolore suspecting no treachery, sent him the Stone Mor∣ter with the Pestell, and about dinner time, when he knew Bentiuegna to bee at home with his wife, by a spye which was set for the purpose; hee called the Clearke (vsually attending on him) and said. Take this Mor∣ter and Pestell, beare them home to Belcolore, and tell her: Sir Simon sends them home with thankes, they hauing sufficiently serued his turne, and desire her likewise, to send me my Cloake, which the Boy left as a pledge for better remembrance, and because she would not lend it with∣out a pawne.

The Clearke comming to the house of Belcolore, found her sitting at dinner with her Husband, and deliuering her the Pestell and Morter, performed the rest of Sir Simons message. Belcolore hearing the Cloake demaunded, stept vp to make answere: But Bentiuegna, seeming (by his lookes) to be much offended, roughly replyed. Why how now wife? Is not Sir Simon our especiall friend, and cannot he be pleasured without a pawne? I protest vpon my word, I could find in my heart to smite thee for it. Rise quickely thou wert best, and send him backe his Cloake; with this warning hereafter, that whatsoeuer he will haue, be it your poore Asse, or any thing else being ours, let him haue it: and tell him (Master Clearke) he may command it. Belcolore rose grumbling from the Table, and fetching the Cloake forth of the Chest, which stood neere at hand in the same roome; shee deliue∣red it to the Clearke, saying. Tell Sir Simon from me, and boldly say you

heard me speake it: that I make a vow to my selfe, he shall neuer make vse of my Morter hereafter, to beat any more of his sawcinesse in, let my Husband say whatsoeuer he will, I speake the word, and will performe it.

Away went the Clearke home with the Cloake, and told Sir Simon what she had said, whereto he replyed. If I must make vse of her Morter no more; I will not trust her with the keeping of my Cloake, for feare it goe to gage indeed.

Bentiuegna was a little displeased at his wiues words, because hee thought she spake but in iest; albeit Belcolore was so angry with Sir Si∣mon, that she would not speake to him till vintage time following. But then Sir Simon, what by sharpe threatenings, of her soule to be in danger of hell fire, continuing so long in hatred of a holy Priest, which words did not a little terrifie her; besides daily presents to her, of sweet new Wines, roasted Chesse-nuts, Figges and Almonds: all vnkindnesse be∣came conuerted to former familiarity; the garments were redee∣med: he gaue her Sonnets which she would sweetly sing to her Cimbale, and further friendship increased betweene her and sweet Sir Simon.

Calandrino, Bruno, and Buffalmaco, all of them being Painters by profession, trauelled to the Plaine of Mugnone, to finde the preciou•• Stone called Helitropium. Calandrino perswaded himselfe to haue found it; returned home to his house heauily loaden with stones. His Wife rebuking him for his absence, hee groweth into anger, and shrewdly beateth her. Afterward, when the case is de∣bated among his other friends Bruno and Buffalmaco, all is found to be meere foolery.

The Third Nouell.

Iustly reprehending, the simplicity of such men, as are too much ad∣dicted to credulitie, and will giue credit to euery thing they heare.

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PAmphilus hauing ended his Nouell, whereat the Ladies laughed exceedingly, so that very hardly they could giue ouer: The Queene gaue charge to Madame Eliza, that shee should next succeed in order; when, being scarcely able to re∣fraine from smyling, thus she began.

I know not (Gracious Ladies) whether I can moue you to at hear∣ty laughter, with a briefe Nouell of mine owne, as Pamphilus lately did with his: yet I dare assure you, that it is both true and pleasant, and I will relate it in the best manner I can.

In our owne Citie, which euermore hath contained all sorts of peo∣ple, not long since there dwelt, a Painter, named Calandrino, a simple man; yet as much adicted to matters of nouelty, as any man whatsoeuer could be. The most part of his time, he spent in the company of two other Painters, the one called Bruno, and the other Buffalmaco, men of very recreatiue spirits, and of indifferent good capacity, often resorting to the said Calandrino, because they tooke delight in his honest simplici∣ty, and pleasant order of behauiour. At the same time likewise, there dwelt in Florence, a yong Gentleman of singular disposition, to euery generous and witty conceite, as the world did not yeeld a more pleasant companion, he being named Maso del Saggio, who hauing heard som∣what of Calandrinos sillinesse: determined to iest with him in merry manner, and to suggest his longing humors after Nouelties, with some conceit of extraordinary nature.

He happening (on a day) to meete him in the Church of Saint Iohn, and seeing him seriously busied, in beholding the rare pictures, and the curious carued Tabernacle, which (not long before) was placed on the high Altar in the said Church: considered with him∣selfe, that he had now fit place and opportunity, to effect what hee had long time desired. And hauing imparted his minde to a very intimate friend, how he intended to deale with simple Calandrino: they went both very neere him, where he sate all alone, and making shew as if they saw him not; began to consult between themselues, concerning the rare properties of precious stones; whereof Maso discoursed as exactly, as he had beene a most skilfull Lapidarie; to which conference of theirs, Calandrino lent an attentiue eare, in re∣gard it was matter of singular rarity.

Soone after, Calandrino started vp, and perceiuing by their loude speaking, that they talked of nothing which required secret Coun∣sell: he went into their company (the onely thing which Maso de∣sired) and holding on still the former Argument; Calandrino would needs request to know, in what place these precious stones were to be found, which had such excellent vertues in them? Maso made answere, that the most of them were to be had in Berlinzona, neere to the City of Bascha, which was in the Territory of a Countrey, called Bengodi, where the Vines were bound about with S••••••cid∣ges, a Goose was sold for a penny, and the Goslings freely giuen in to boote. There was also an high mountaine, wholly made of Par∣mezane, grated Cheese, whereon dwelt people, who did nothing else but make Mocharones and Rauiuolies, boyling them with broth of Capons, and afterward hurled them all about, to whosoeuer can or will catch them. Neere to this mountaine runneth a faire Riuer, the whole streame being pure white Bastard, none such was euer sold for any money, and without one drop of water in it.

Now trust me Sir, (said Calandrino) that is an excellent Countrey to dwell in: but I pray you tell me Sir, what doe they with the Capons after they haue boyld them? The Baschanes (quoth Maso) eate them all. Haue you Sir, said Calandrino, at any time beene in that Coun∣trey? How? answered Maso, doe you demaund if I haue beene there? Yes man, aboue a thousand times, at the least. How farre Sir, I pray you (quoth Calandrino) is that worthy Countrey, from this our City? In troth, replyed Maso, the miles are hardly to be numbred, for the most part of them, vve trauell vvhen vve are nightly in our beddes, and if a man dreame right; he may be there vpon a sudden.

Surely Sir, said Calandrino, it is further hence, then to Abruzzi? Yes questionlesse, replyed Maso; but, to a vvilling minde, no trauell seemeth tedious.

Calandrino well noting, that Maso deliuered all these speeches, with a stedfast countenance, no signe of smyling, or any gesture to vrge the least mislike: he gaue such credit to them, as to any matter of apparent and manifest truth, and vpon this assured confidence, he said.

Beleeue me Sir, the iourney is ouer-farre for mee to vndertake, but if it vvere neerer; I could affoord to goe in your Company; onely to see hovv they make these Macherones, and to fill my belly vvith them.

But now wee are in talke Sir, I pray you pardon mee to aske, whe∣ther any such precious stones, as you spake off, are to be found in that Countrey, or no? Yes indeed, replyed Maso, there are two kinds of them to be found in those Territories, both being of very great vertue. One kind, are gritty stones, of Settignano, and of Montisca, by vertue of which places, when any Mill-stones or Grind-stones are to bee made, they knede the sand as they vse to doe meale, and so make them of what bignesse they please. In which respect, they haue a common saying there: that Nature maketh common stones, but Montisca Mill-stones. Such plenty are there of these Mill-stones, so slenderly here esteemed a∣mong vs, as Emeralds are with them, whereof they haue whole moun∣taines, farre greater then our Montemorello, which shine most glori∣ously at midnight. And how meanly soeuer we account of their Mill-stones; yet there they drill them, and enchase them in Rings, which af∣terward they send to the great Soldane, and haue whatsoeuer they will demaund for them.

The other kinde is a most precious Stone indeede, which our best La∣pidaries call the Helitropium, the vertue whereof is so admirable; as whosoeuer beareth it about him, so long as he keepeth it, it is impossi∣ble for any eye to discerne him, because he walketh meerely inuisible. O Lord Sir (quoth Calandrino) those stones are of rare vertue indeede: but where else may a man finde that Helitropium? Whereto Maso

thus answered: That Countrey onely doth not containe the Helitro∣pium; for they be many times found vpon our plaine of Mugnone. Of what bignesse Sir (quoth Calandrino) is the Stone, and what cou∣lour? The Helitropium, answered Maso, is not alwayes of one quali∣ty, because some are bigge, and others lesse; but all are of one coulour, namely blacke.

Calandrino committing all these things to respectiue memory, and pretending to be called thence by some other especiall affaires; departed from Maso, concluding resoluedly with himselfe, to finde this precious stone, if possibly hee could: yet intending to doe no∣thing, vntill hee had acquainted Bruno and Buffalmaco therewith, whom he loued dearly: he went in all hast to seeke them; because, (without any longer trifling the time) they three might bee the first men, that should find out this precious stone, spending almost the whole morning, before they were all three met together. For they were painting at the Monastery of the Sisters of Faenza, where they had very serious imployment, and followed their businesse dili∣gently: where hauing found them, and saluting them in such kinde manner, as continually he vsed to doe, thus he began.

Louing friends, if you were pleased to follow mine aduise, wee three will quickely be the richest men in Florence; because, by information from a Gentleman (well deseruing to be credited) on the Plaine of Mugnone: there is a precious stone to be found, which whosoeuer car∣rieth it about him, walketh inuisible, and is not to be seene by any one. Let vs three be the first men to goe and finde it, before any other heare thereof, and goe about it, and assure our selues that we shall finde it, for I know it (by discription) so soone as I see it. And when wee haue it, who can hinder vs from bearing it about vs. Then will we goe to the Tables of our Bankers, or money Changers, which we see daily charged with plenty of gold and siluer, where we may take so much as wee list, for they (nor any) are able to descrie vs. So, (in short time) shall wee all be wealthy, neuer needing to drudge any more, or paint muddy walles, as hitherto we haue done; and, as many of our poore profession are forced to doe.

Bruno and Buffalmaco hearing this, began to smile, and looking merily each on other, they seemed to wonder thereat, and greatly commended the counsell of Calandrino. Buffalmaco demaunding how the stone was named. Now it fortuned, that Calandrino (who had but a grosse and blockish memory) had quite forgot the name of the stone, and therefore said. What neede haue wee of the name, when we know, and are assured of the stones vertue? Let vs make no more adoe, but (setting aside all other businesse) goe seeke where it is to be found. Well my friend (answered Bruno) you say wee may finde it, but how, and by what meanes?

There are two sorts of them (quoth Calandrino) some bigge, others smaller, but all carry a blacke colour: therefore (in mine opinion) let vs gather all such stones as are blacke, so shall we be sure to finde it a∣mong them, without any further losse of time.

Buffalmaco aud Bruno, liked and allowed the counsell of Calandri∣no, which when they had (by seuerall commendations) giuen him assurance of, Bruno saide. I doe not thinke it a conuenient time now, for vs to go about so weighty a businesse: for the Sun is yet in the high∣est degree, and striketh such a heate on the plaine of Mugnone, as all the stones are extreamly dryed, and the very blackest will nowe seeme whitest. But in the morning, after the dew is falne, and before the Sunne shineth forth, euery stone retaineth his true colour. Moreouer, there be many Labourers now vvorking on the plaine, about such bu∣sinesse as they are seuerally assigned, who seeing vs in so serious a serch: may imagine what we seeke for, & partake with vs in the same inqui∣sition, by which meanes they may chance to speed before vs, and so wee may lose both our trot and amble. Wherefore, by my consent, if your opinion iumpe with mine, this is an enterprize onely to be perfourmed in an early morning, when the blacke stones are to be distinguisht from the white, and a Festiuall day were the best of all other, for then there will be none to discouer vs.

Buffalmaco applauded the aduice of Bruno, and Calandrino did no lesse, concluding all together; that Sunday morning (next ensu∣ing) should be the time, and then they all three would go seeke the Stone. But Calandrino was verie earnest with them, that they shold not reueale it to any liuing body, because it was tolde him as an es∣peciall secret: disclosing further to them, what hee had heard con∣cerning the Countrey of Bengodi, maintaining (with solemn oaths and protestations) that euery part thereof was true. Vppon this a∣greement, they parted from Calandrino, who hardly enioyed anie rest at all, either by night or day, so greedie he was to bee possessed of the stone. On the Sonday morning, hee called vp his Compani∣ons before breake of day, and going forth at S. Galls Port, they stay∣ed not, till they came to the plaine of Mugnone, where they search∣ed all about to finde this strange stone.

Calandrino went stealing before the other two, and verilie per∣swaded himselfe, that he was borne to finde the Helitropium, and looking on euery side about him, hee reiected all other Stones but the blacke, whereof first he filled his bosome, and afterwards, both his Pockets. Then he tooke off his large painting Apron, which he fastened with his girdle in the manner of a sacke, and that he fil∣led full of stones likewise. Yet not so satisfied, he spred abroad his Cloake, which being also full of stones, hee bound it vp carefully, for feare of loosing the very least of them. All which Buffalma∣ca

and Bruno well obseruing (the day growing on, and hardly they could reach home by dinner time) according as merrily they had concluded, and pretending not to see Calandrino, albeit he was not farre from them: What is become of Calandrino? saide Buffalmaco. Bruno gazing strangely euery where about him, as if hee were desi∣rous to finde him, replyed. I saw him not long since, for then he was hard by before vs; questionlesse, he hath giuen vs the slippe, is priuilie gone home to dinner, and making starke fooles of vs, hath lefte vs to picke vp blackè stones, vpon the parching plaines of Mugnone. Well (quoth Buffalmaco) this is but the tricke of an hollow-hearted friend, and not such as he protested himselfe to be, to vs. Could any but vvee haue bin so sottish, to credit his friuolous perswasions, hoping to finde a∣ny stones of such vertue, and here on the fruitlesse plains of Mugnone? No, no, none but we would haue beleeued him.

Calandrino (who was close by them) hearing these wordes, and seeing the whole manner of their wondering behauiour: became constantly perswaded, that hee had not onely founde the precious stone; but also had some store of them about him, by reason he was so neere to them, and yet they could not see him, therefore he wal∣ked before them. Now was his ioy beyond all compasse of expres∣sion, and being exceedingly proud of so happy an aduenture: did not meane to speake one word to them, but (heauily laden as hee was) to steale home faire and softly before them, which indeede he did, leauing them to follow after, if they would. Bruno perceiuing his intent, said to Buffalmaco: What remaineth now for vs to doe? Why should not we go home, as well as hee? And reason too, replyed Bruno, It is in vaine to tarry any longer heere: but I solemnly protest, Calandrino shall no more make an Asse of me: and were I now as neere him, as not long since I was, I would giue him such a remembrance on the heele with this Flint stone, as should sticke by him this moneth, to teach him a lesson for abusing his friends.

Hee threw the stone, and hit him shrewdly on the heele there∣with; but all was one to Calandrino, whatsoeuer they saide, or did, as thus they still followed after him. And although the blow of the stone was painfull to him; yet he mended his pace so wel as he was able, in regard of beeing ouer-loaden with stones, and gaue them not one word all the way, because he tooke himselfe to bee inuisi∣ble, and vtterly vnseene of them. Buffalmaco taking vppe another Flint-stone, which was indifferent heauie and sharp, said to Bruno. Seest thou this Flint? Casting it from him, he smote Calandrino iust in the backe therewith, saying. Oh that Calandrino had bin so neere, as I might haue hit him on the backe with the stone. And thus all the way on the plaine of Mugnone, they did nothing else but pelt him with stones, euen so farre as the Port of S. Gall, where they threwe

downe what other stones they had gathered, meaning not to molest him any more, because they had done enough already.

There they stept before him vnto the Port, and acquainted the Warders with the whole matter, who laughing heartily at the iest, the better to vpholde it; would seeme not to see Calandrino in his passage by them, but suffered him to go on, sore wearied with his burthen, and sweating extreamly. Without resting himselfe in a∣ny place, he came home to his house, which was neere to the cor∣ner of the Milles, Fortune being so fauourable to him in the course of this mockery, that as he passed along the Riuers side, and after∣ward through part of the City; he was neither met nor seen by any, in regard they were all in their houses at dinner.

Calandrino, euery minute ready to sinke vnder his weightie bur∣then, entred into his owne house, where (by great ill luck) his wife, being a comely and very honest woman, and named Monna Trista, was standing aloft on the stayres head. She being somewhat angry for his so long absence, and seeing him come in grunting and groa∣ning, frowningly said. I thought that the diuell would neuer let thee come home, all the whole Citie haue dined, and yet wee must remaine without our dinner, When Calandrino heard this, & perceiued that he was not inuisible to his Wife: full of rage and wroth, hee began to raile, saying. Ah thou wicked Woman, where art thou? Thou hast vtterly vndone me: but (as I liue) I will pay thee soundly for it. Vp the staires he ascended into a small Parlour, where when he hadde spred all his burthen of stones on the floore: he ran to his wife, cat∣ching her by the h••••re of the head, and throwing her at his feete; giuing her so many spurns and cruel blowes, as shee was not able to mooue either armes or legges, notwithstanding all her teares, and humble submission.

Now Buffalmaco and Bruno, after they had spent an indifferent while, with the Warders at the Port in laughter, in a faire & gentle pace, they followed Calandrino home to his house, and being come to the doore, they heard the harsh bickering betweene him and his Wife, and seeming as if they were but newly arriued, they called out alowd to him. Calandrino being in a sweate, st••••ping and ra∣uing still at his Wife: looking forth of the window, entreated them to ascend vp to him, which they did, counter••etting greeuous dis∣pleasure against him. Being come into the roome, which they saw all couered ouer with stones, his Wife sitting in a corner, all the haire (well-neere) torne off her head, her face broken and blee••ing, and all her body cruelly beaten; on the other side, Calandrino stan∣ding vnbraced and vngirded, strugling and wallowing, like a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 quite our of breath: after a little pausing, Bruno th•••• spake.

Why how now Calandrino? What may the m••••••ing of this matter

be? What, art thou preparing for building, that thou hast prouided such plenty of stones? How sitteth thy poore wife? How hast thou mis∣vsed her? Are these the behauiours of a wise or honest man? Calan∣drino, vtterly ouer-spent with trauaile, and carrying such an huge burthen of stones, as also the toylesome beating of his Wife, (but much more impatient and offended, for that high good Fortune, which he imagined to haue lost:) could not collect his spirits toge∣ther, to answer them one ready word, wherefore hee sate fretting like a mad man. Whereupon, Buffalmaco thus began to him. Ca∣landrino, if thou be angry with any other, yet thou shouldest not haue made such a mockery of vs, as thou hast done: in leauing vs (like a cou∣ple of coxcombes) to the plaine of Mugnone, whether thou leddest vs with thee, to seeke a precious stone called Helitropium. And couldst thou steale home, neuer bidding vs so much as farewell? How can vve but take it in very euill part, that thou shouldest so abuse two honest neighbours? Well, assure thy selfe, this is the last time that euer thou shalt serue vs so.

Calandrino (by this time) being somewhat better come to him∣selfe, with an humble protestation of courtesie, returned them this answer. Alas my good frionds, be not you offended, the case is farre o∣therwise then you immagine. Poore vnfortunate man that I am, I found the rare precious stone that you speake of: and marke me well, if I do not tell you the truth of all. When you asked one another (the first time) what was become of me; I was hard by you: at the most, vvithin the distance of two yards length; and perceiuing that you saw mee not, (being still so neere, and alwaies before you:) I w••••t on, smiling to my selfe, to heare you brabble and rage against me.

So, proceeding on in his discourse, he recounted euery accident as it hapned, both what they had saide and did vnto him, concer∣ning the seuerall blowes, with the two Flint-stones, the one hur∣ting him greeuously in the heele, and the other paining him as ex∣treamly in the backe, with their speeches vsed then, and his laugh∣ter, notwithstanding hee felt the harme of them both, yet beeing proud that he did so inuisibly beguile them. Nay more (quoth he) I cannot forbeare to tell you, that when I passed thorow the Port, I saw you standing with the Warders; yet, by vertue of that excellent Stone, vndiscouered of you all. Beside, going along the streets, I met many of my Gossips, friends, and familiar acquaintance, such as vsed day lie to conuerse with me, and drinking together in euery Tauern: yet not one of them spake to me, neyther vsed any courtesie or salutation; vvhich (indeede) I did the more freely forgiue them, because they were not a∣ble to see me.

In the end of all, when I was come home into mine owne house, this diuellish and accursed Woman, being aloft vppon my stayres head, by

much misfortune chanced to see me; in regard (as it is not vnknowne to you) that women cause all things to lose their vertue. In which re∣spect, I that could haue stild my selfe the onely happy man in Florence, am now made most miserable. And therefore did I iustly beate her, so long as she was able to stand against mee, and I know no reason to the contrary, why I should not yet teare her in a thousand peeces▪ for I may well curse the day of our mariage, to hinder and bereaue me of such an inuisible blessednesse.

Buffalmaco and Bruno hearing this, made shew of verie much meruailing thereat, and many times maintained what Calandrino had said; being well neere ready to burst with laughter; conside∣ring, how cōfidently he stood vpon it, that he had found the won∣derful stone, and lost it by his wiues speaking onely to him. But when they saw him rise in fury once more, with intent to beat her againe: then they stept betweene them; affirming, That the woman had no way offended in this case, but rather he himself: who knowing that women cause all things to lose their vertue, had not therefore ex∣presly commanded her, not to be seene in his presence all that day, vn∣till he had made full proofe of the stones vertue. And questionles, the consideration of a matter so auaileable and important, was quite ta∣ken from him, because such an especiall happinesse, should not belong to him only; but (in part) to his friends, whom he had acquainted there∣with, drew them to the plaine vvith him in companie, vvhere they tooke as much paines in serch of the stone, as possibly he did, or could; and yet (dishonestly) he would deceiue them, and beare it away coue∣tously, for his owne priuate benefit.

After many other, as wise and wholesome perswasions, which he constantly credited, because they spake them, they reconciled him to his wife, and she to him: but not without some difficulty in him; who falling into wonderfull greefe and melancholy, for losse of such an admirable precious stone, was in danger to haue dyed, within lesse then a month after.

The Prouost belonging to the Cathedrall Church of Fiesola, fell in loue with a Gentlewoman, being a widdow, and named Piccarda, who hated him as much as he loued her. He imagining, that he lay with her: by the Gentlewomans Bretheren, and the Byshop vnder whom he serued, was taken in bed with her Mayde, an vgly, soule, defor∣med Slut.

The Fourth Nouell.

Wherein is declared, how loue oftentimes is so powerfull in aged men, and driueth them to such doating, that it redoundeth to their great disgrace and punishment.

LAdie Eliza hauing concluded her Nouell, notwithout in∣finite commendations of the whole company: the Queen turning her lookes to Madame Aemillia, gaue her such an expresse signe, as she must needs follow next after Madame Eliza, whereupon she began in this manner.

Vertuous Ladies, I very well remember (by diuers Nouels formerly related) that sufficient hath beene sayde, concerning Priests and Reli∣gious persons, and all other carrying shauen Crownes▪ in their luxuri∣ous appetites and desires. But because no one can at any time say so much, as thereto no more may be added: beside them alreadie spoken of, I wil tel you another concerning the Prouost of a Cathedral Church, who would needes (in despight of all the vvorld) loue a Gentlewoman whether she would or no: and therefore, in due chastisement both vnto

his age and folly, she gaue him such entertainment as he iustly deser∣ued.

It is not vnknowne vnto you all, that the Cittie of Fieosola, the mountaine whereof we may very easily hither discerne, hath bene (in times past) a very great and most ancient City: although at this day it is well-neere all ruined: yet neuerthelesse, it alwaies was, and yet is a Byshops See, albeit not of the wealthiest. In the same Ci∣tie, and no long while since, neere vnto the Cathedrall Church, there dwelt a Gentlewoman, being a Widdow, and commonlie there stiled by the name of Madame Piccarda, whose house and in∣heritance was but small, wherewith yet she liued very contented∣ly (hauing no wandering eye, or wanton desires) and no company but her two Brethren, Gentlemen of especiall honest and gracious disposition.

This Gentlewoman, being yet in the flourishing condition of her time, did ordinarily resort to the Cathedrall Church, in holie zeale, and religious deuotion; where the Prouost of the place, be∣came so enamored of her, as nothing (but the sight of her) yeel∣ded him any contentment. Which fond affection of his, was for∣warded with such an audacious and bold carriage, as hee dared to acquaint her with his loue, requiring her enterchange of affection, and the like opinion of him, as he had of her. True it is, that he was very farre entred into yeares, but yong and lustie in his own proud conceite, presuming strangely beyond his capacity, and thinking as well of his abilitie, as the youthfullest gallant in the World could doe. Whereas (in verie deede) his person was vtterly displea∣sing, his behauiour immodest and scandalous, and his vsuall Lan∣guage, sauouring of such sensualitie, as, very fewe or none cared for his company. And if any Woman seemed respectiue of him, it was in regard of his outside and profession, and more for feare, then the least affection, and alwayes as welcome to them, as the head-ake.

His fond and foolish carriage stil continuing to this Gentlewo∣man; she being wise and vertuously aduised, spake thus vnto him. Holy Sir, if you loue me according as you protest, & manifest by your outward behauiour: I am the more to thanke you for it, being bound in dutie to loue you likewise. But if your Loue haue any harshe or vn∣sauourie taste, vvhich mine is no way able to endure, neyther dare entertaine in anie kinde what soeuer: you must and shall hold mee ex∣cused, because I am made of no such temper. You are my ghostly and spirituall Father, an Holy Priest. Moreouer, yeares haue made you ho∣norably aged; all which seuerall weighty considerations, ought to con∣firme you in continency & chastity. Remember withall (good sir) that I am but a child to you in years, & were I bent to any wanton appetites,

you shold iustly correct me by fatherly counsell, such as most beautifieth your sacred profession. Beside, I am a Widdow, and you are not ign••∣rant, how requisite a thing honestie is in widdowes. Wherefore, pardon mee (Holy Father:) for, in such manner as you make the motion: I desire you not to loue mee, because I neither can or will at any time so affect you.

The Prouoste gaining no other grace at this time, would not so giue ouer for this first repulse, but pursuing her still with vnbesee∣ming importunity; many priuate meanes he vsed to her by Letters, tokens, and insinuating ambassages; yea, whensoeuer shee came to the Church, he neuer ceased his wearisome solicitings. Whereat she growing greatly offended, and perceyuing no likelyhood of his desisting; became so tyred with his tedious suite, that she conside∣red with her selfe, how she might dispatch him as he deserued, be∣cause she saw no other remedy. Yet shee would not attempte anie thing in this case, without acquainting her Bretheren first therwith. And hauing tolde them, how much shee was importuned by the Prouost, and also what course she meant to take (wherin they both counselled and encouraged her:) within a few daies after, shee went to Church as she was wont to do; where so soone as the Prouost e∣spyed her: forthwith he came to her, and according to his continu∣ed course, he fell into his amorous courting. She looking vpon him with a smiling countenance, and walking aside with him out of any hearing: after he had spent many impertinent speeches, shee (ven∣ting foorth manie a vehement sighe) at length returned him this answer.

Reuerend Father, I haue often heard it saide: That there is not any Fort or Castle, how strongly munited soeuer it bee; but by continuall assayling, at length (of necessity) it must and will be surprized. Which comparison, I may full well allude to my selfe. For, you hauing so long time solicited me, one while with affable language, then againe vvith tokens and entisements, of such preuailing power: as haue broken the verie barricado of my former deliberation, and yeelded mee vppe as your prisoner, to be commanded at your pleasure, for now I am onely deuoted yours.

Well may you (Gentle Ladies) imagine, that this answere was not a little welcome to the Prouost; who, shrugging with conceyte of ioy, presently thus replyed. I thanke you Madame Piccarda, and to tell you true, I held it almost as a miracle, that you could stand vpon such long resistance, considering, it neuer so fortuned to mee with anie other. And I haue many times saide to my selfe, that if women vvere made of siluer, they hardly could be worth a pennie, because there can scarsely one be found of so good allay, as to endure the test and essay. But let vs breake off this friuolous conference, and resolue vpon a conclusi∣on;

How, when and where we may safely meete together. Worthy Sir, answered Piccard••, your selfe may appoint the time whensoeuer you please, because I haue no Husband, to whom I should render any account of my absence, or presence: but I am not prouided of any place.

A pretty while the Prouoste stood musing, and at last saide. A place Madame? where can be more priuacie, then in your owne house? Alas Sir (quoth she) you know that I haue two Gentlemen my bre∣thren, who cōtinually are with me, & other of their friends beside: My house also is not great, wherefore it is impossible to be there, except you could be like a dumbe man, without speaking one word, or making the very least noyse; beside, to remaine in darkenesse, as if you were blinde, and who can be able to endure all these? And yet (without these) there is no aduenturing, albeit they neuer come into my Chamber: but their lodging is so close to mine, as there cannot any word be spoken, be it ne∣uer so low or in whispering manner, but they heare it very easily. Ma∣dame said the Prouoste, for one or two nights, I can make hard shift. Why Sir (quoth she) the matter onely remaineth in you, for if you be silent and suffering, as already you haue heard, there is no feare at all of safty. Let me alone Madame, replyed the Prouoste, I will bee go∣uerned by your directions: but, in any case, let vs begin this night. With all my heart, saide shee. So appointing him how, and when hee should come; hee parted from her, and shee returned home to her house.

Heere I am to tell you, that this Gentlewoman had a seruant, in the nature of an old maide, not indued with any well featured face, but instead thereof, she had the vgliest and most countefeit counte∣nance, as hardly could be seene a worse. She had a wrie mouth, huge great lippes, foule teeth, great and blacke, a monstrous stin∣king breath, her eyes bleared, and alwayes running, the complexion of her face betweene greene and yellow, as if shee had not spent the Summer season in the Citie, but in the parching Countrey vnder a hedge; and beside all these excellent parts, shee was crooke backt, poult footed, and went like a lame Mare in Fetters. Her name was Ciuta, but in regard of her flat nose, lying as low as a Beagles, shee was called Ciutazza. Now, notwithstanding all this deformity in her, yet she had a singuler opinion of her selfe, as commonly all such foule Sl••ts haue: in regard whereof, Madame Piccarda calling her aside, Thus began.

Ciutazza, if thou wilt doe for me one nights seruice, I shall bestow on thee a faire new Smocke. When Ciutazza heard her speake of a new Smocke, instantly she answered. Madame, if you please to be∣stow a new Smocke on me, were it to runne thorow the fire for you, or a∣ny businesse of farre greater danger, you onely haue the power to com∣mand me, and I will doe it. I will not (said Piccarda) vrge thee to

any dangerous action, but onely to lodge in my bed this night with a man, and giue him courteous entertainement, who shall reward thee liberally for it. But haue an especiall care that thou speake not one word, for feare thou shouldst be heard by my Brethren, who (as thou knowest) lodge so neere by; doe this, and then demaund thy Smocke of me. Madame (quoth Ciutazza) if it were to lye with sixe men, ra∣ther then one; if you say the word, it shall be done.

When night was come, the Prouoste also came according to ap∣pointment, euen when the two brethren were in their lodging, where they easily heard his entrance, as Piccarda (being present with them) had informed them. In went the Prouoste without any candle, or making the least noise to be heard, & being in Piccardaes Chamber, went to bed: Ciutazza tarrying not long from him, but (as her Mistresse had instructed her) she went to bed likewise, not speaking any word at all, and the Prouoste, imagining to haue her there, whom he so highly affected, fell to imbracing and kissing Ciu∣tazza, who was as forward in the same manner to him, and there for a while I intend to leaue them.

When Piccarda had performed this hot piece of businesse, she re∣ferred the effecting of the remainder to her Brethren, in such sort as it was compacted betweene them. Faire and softly went the two brethren forth of their Chamber, and going to the Market place, Fortune was more fauourable to them then they could wish, in ac∣complishing the issue of their intent. For the heat being somwhat te∣dious, the Lord Bishop was walking abroad very late, with purpose to visit the Brethren at the Widdowes house, because he tooke great delight in their company, as being good Schollers, and endued with other singular parts beside. Meeting with them in the open Market place, he acquainted them with his determination; whereof they were not a little ioyfull, it iumping so iustly with their intent.

Being come to the Widdowes house, they passed through a smal nether Court, where lights stood ready to welcome him thither; and entring into a goodly Hall, there was store of good wine and banquetting, which the Bishop accepted in very thankefull manner: and courteous complement being ouerpassed, one of the Brethren, thus spake. My good Lord, seeing it hath pleased you to honour our poore widdowed Sisters house with your presence, for which wee shall thanke you while we liue: We would intreate one fauour more of you, onely but to see a sight which we will shew you. The Lord Bishop was well contented with the motion: so the Brethren conducting him by the hand, brought him into their Sisters Chamber, where the the Prouoste was in bed with Ciutazza, both soundly sleeping, but enfolded in his armes, as wearied (belike) with their former wan∣tonning, and whereof his age had but little need.

The Courtaines being close drawne about the bed, although the season was exceeding hot, they hauing lighted Torches in their hands; drew open the Curtaines, and shewed the Bishop his Pro∣uoste, close snugging betweene the armes of Ciutazza. Vpon a sudden the Prouoste awaked, and seeing so great a light, as also so many people about him: shame and feare so daunted him, that hee shrunke downe into the bed, and hid his head. But the Bishop be∣ing displeased at a sight so vnseemely, made him to discouer his head againe, to see whom he was in bed withall. Now the poore Pro∣uoste perceiuing the Gentlewomans deceite, and the proper han∣some person so sweetly embracing him: it made him so confoun∣ded with shame, as he had not the power to vtter one word: but hauing put on his cloathes by the Bishops command, hee sent him (vnder sufficient guard) to his Pallace, to suffer due chastisement for his sinne committed; and afterward he desired to know, by what meanes hee became so fauoured of Ciutazza, the whole Historie whereof, the two brethren related at large to him.

When the Bishop had heard all the discourse, highly he commen∣ded the wisedome of the Gentlewoman, and worthy assistance of her brethren, who contemning to soile their hands in the blood of a Priest, rather sought to shame him as hee deserued. The Bishop enioyned him a pennance of repentance for forty dayes after, but loue and disdaine made him weepe nine and forty. Moreouer, it was a long while after, before he durst be seene abroad. But when he came to walke the streets, the Boyes would point their fingers at him, saying. Behold the Prouoste that lay with C••utazza: Which was such a wearisome life to him, that he became (well neere) di∣stracted in his wits. In this manner the honest Gentlewoman dis∣charged her dutie, and rid her selfe of the Prouosts importunity: Ciutazza had a merry night of it, and a new Smocke also for her la∣bour.

Three pleasant Companions, plaide a merry pranke with a Iudge (be∣longing to the Marquesate of Ancona) at Florence, at such time as he sate on the Bench, and hearing criminall causes.

The Fift Nouell.

Giuing admonition, that for the mannaging of publique affaires, no o∣ther persons are or ought to be appointed, but such as be honest, and meet to sit on the seate of Authority.

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NO sooner had Madam Aemillia finished her Nouell, wher∣in, the excellent wisedome of Piccarda, for so worthily punishing the luxurious old Prouoste, had generall com∣mendations of the whole Assembly: but the Queene, looking on Philostratus, said. I command you next to supply the place: whereto he made answere, that hee was both ready and willing, and then thus began. Honourable Ladies, the merry Gentleman, so lately re∣membred by Madame Eliza, being named Maso del Saggio; causeth me to passeouer an intended Tale, which I had resolued on when it came to my turne: to report another concerning him, and two men more, his friendly Companions. Which although it may appeare to you some∣what vnpleasing, in regard of a little grosse and vnmannerly behaui∣our: yet it will moue merriment without any offence, and that is the maine reason why I relate it.

It is not vnknowne to you, partly by intelligence from our reue∣rend predecessours, as also some vnderstanding of your owne, that many time haue resorted to our City of Florence, Potestates and Officers, belonging to the Marquesate of Anconia; who commonly were men of lowe spirit, and their liues so wretched and penurious, as they rather deserued to be tearmed Misers, then men. And in regard of this their naturall couetousnesse and misery, the Iudges would bring also in their company, such Scribes or Notaries, as be∣ing paralelde with their Masters: they all seemed like Swaines come from the Plough, or bred vp in some Coblers quality, rather then Schollers, or Students of Law.

At one time (aboue all the rest) among other Potestates and Iud∣ges, there came an especiall man, as pickt out of purpose, who was named Messer Niccolao da San Lepidio, who (at the first beholding) looked rather like a Tinker, then any Officer in authority. This hansome man (among the rest) was deputed to heare criminall causes. And, as often it happeneth, that Citizens, although no bu∣sinesse inuiteth them to Iudiciall Courts, yet they still resort thither, sometimes accidentally: So it fortuned, that Maso del Saggio, being one morning in search of an especiall friend, went to the Court∣house, and being there, obserued in what manner Messer Niccolao was seated; who looking like some strange Fowle, lately come forth of a farre Countrey; he began to suruay him the more seriously, euen from the head to the foot, as we vse to say.

And albeit he saw his Gowne furred with Miniuer, as also the hood about his necke, a Penne and Inkehorne hanging at his girdle, and one skirt of his Garment longer then the other, with more mis∣shapen sights about him, farre vnfitting for a man of so ciuill pro∣fession: yet he spyed one errour extraordinary, the most notable (in his opinion) that euer he had seene before. Namely, a paultry paire of Breeches, wickedly made, and worse worne, hanging downe so lowe as halfe his legge, euen as he sate vpon the Bench, yet cut so sparingly of the Cloath, that they gaped wide open before, as a wheele-barrow might haue full entrance allowed it. This strange sight was so pleasing to him; as leauing off further search of his friend, and scorning to haue such a spectacle alone by himselfe: hee went vpon another Inquisition; Namely, for two other merry Lads like himselfe, the one being called Ribi, and the other Mat∣teuzza, men of the same mirth-full disposition as he was, and there∣fore the fitter for his Company.

After he had met with them, these were his salutations: My honest Boyes, if euer you did me any kindnesse, declare it more effectually now, in accompanying me to the Court-house, where you shall behold such a singular spectacle, as (I am sure) you neuer yet saw the like. Forthwith

they went along altogether, and being come to the Court house, he shewed them the Iudges hansome paire of Breeches, hanging down in such base and beastly manner; that (being as yet farre off from the Bench) their hearts did ake with extreamity of laughter. But when they came neere to the seat whereon Messer Niccolao sate, they plainely perceiued, that it was very eas••e to be crept vnder, and withall, that the board whereon he set his feet, was rotten and bro∣ken, so that it was no difficult matter, to reach it, and pull it downe as a man pleased, and let him fall bare Breecht to the ground. Cheare vp your spirits (my hearts) quoth Maso, and if your longing be like to mine; we will haue yonder Breeches a good deale lower, for I see how it may be easily done.

Laying their heads together, plotting and contriuing seuerall wayes, which might be the likelyest to compasse their intent: each of them had his peculiar appointment, to vndertake the businesse without fayling, and it was to be performed the next morning. At the houre assigned, they met there againe, and finding the Court well filled with people, the Plaintiffes and Defendants earnestly pleading: Matteuzzo (before any body could descry him, was cun∣ningly crept vnder the Bench, and lay close by the board whereon the Iudge placed his feete. Then stept in Maso on the right hand of Messer Niccolao, and tooke fast hold on his Gowne before; the like did Ribi on the left hand, in all respects answerable to the other. Oh my Lord Iudge (cryed Maso out aloud) I humbly intreat you for charities sake, before th•••• pilfering knaue escape away from hence; that I may haue Iustice against him, for stealing my drawing-ouer stocke∣ings, which he stoutly denyeth, yet mine owne eyes beheld the deed, it being now not aboue fifteene dayes since, when first I bought them for mine owne vse.

Worthy Lord Iudge (cryed Ribi, on the other side) doe not beleeue what he saith, for he is a paltry lying fellow, and because hee knew I came hither to make my complaint for a Male or Cloakebag which he stole from me: hee vrgeth this occasion for a paire of drawing Stocke∣ings, which he deliuered me with his owne hands. If your Lordship will not credit me, I can produce as witnesses, Trecco the Shoemaker, with Monna Grassa the Souse-seller, and he that sweepes the Church of Santa Maria á Verzaia, who saw him when he came posting hither. Maso haling and tugging the Iudge by the sleeue, would not suffer him to heare Ribi, but cryed out still for Iustice against him, as he did the like on the contrary side.

During the time of this their clamourous contending, the Iudge being very willy willing to heare either party: Matteuzzo, vpon a signe receiued from the other, which was a word in Masoes plea∣ding, laide holde on the broken boord, as also on the Iudges low-hanging

Breech, plucking at them both so strongly, that they fell downe immediately, the Breeches being onely tyed but with one Poynt before. He hearing the boards breaking vnderneath him, and such maine pulling at his Breeches; stroue (as he sate) to make them fast before, but the Poynt being broken, and Maso crying in his eare on the one side, as Ribi did the like in the other; hee was at his wits end to defend himselfe. My Lord (quoth Maso) you may bee a∣shamed that you doe me not Iustice, why will you not heare mee, but wholly lend your eare to mine Aduersary? My Lord (said Ribi) neuer was Libell preferd into this Court, of such a paltry trifling matter, and therefore I must, and will haue Iustice.

By this time the Iudge was dismounted from the Bench, and stood on the ground, with his slouenly Breeches hanging about his heeles: Matteuzzo being cunningly stolne away, and vndiscouered by any body. Ribi, thinking he had shamed the Iudge sufficiently, went away, protesting, that he would declare his cause in the hea∣ring of a wiser Iudge. And Maso forbearing to tugge his Gowne any longer, in his departing, said. Fare you well Sir, you are not wor∣thy to be a Magistrate, if you haue no more regard of your honour and honesty, but will put off poore mens suites at your pleasure. So both went seuerall wayes, and soone were gone out of publike view.

The worshipfull Iudge Messer Niccolao stood all this while on the ground; and, in presence of all the beholders, trussed vp his Breeches, as if hee were new risen out of his bed: when better be∣thinking himselfe on the matters indifference, he called for the two men, who contended for the drawing stockings and the Cloake∣bag; but no one could tell what was become of them. Whereup∣on, he rapt out a kinde of Iudges oath, saying: I will know whe∣ther it be Law or no heere in Florence, to make a Iudge sit bare Breecht on the Bench of Iustice, and in the hearing of criminall Causes; whereat the chiefe Potestate, and all the standers by laugh∣ed heartily.

Within fewe dayes after, he was informed by some of his especi∣all Friends, that this had neuer happened to him, but onely to te∣stifie, how vnderstanding the Florentines are, in their ancient con∣stitutions and customes, to embrace, loue and honour, honest dis∣creet worthy Iudges and Magistrates; Whereas on the contrary, they as much condemne miserable knaues, fooles, and dolts, who neuer merit to haue any better entertainment. Wherefore, it would be best for him, to make no more enquiry after the parties; lest a worse inconuenience should happen to him.

Bruno and Buffalmaco, did steale a young Brawne from Calandrino, and for his recouery thereof, they vsed a kinde of pretented coniurati∣on, with Pilles made of Ginger and strong Malmesey. But instead of this application, they gaue him two Pilles of a Dogges Dates, or Dow∣sets, confected in Alloes, which he receiued each after the other; by meanes whereof they made him beleeue, that hee had robde himselfe. And for feare they should report this theft to his wife; they made him to goe buy another Brawne.

The Sixt Nouell.

Wherein is declared, how easily a plaine and simple man may be made a foole, when he dealeth with crafty companions.

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PHilostratus had no sooner concluded his Nouell, and the whole Assembly laughed heartily thereat: but the Queen gaue command to Madame Philomena, that shee should follow next in order; whereupon thus shee began. Worthy Ladies, as Philostratus, by calling to memorie the name of Maso del Saggio, hath contented you with another merry Nouell concerning him: in the same manner must I intreat you, to remember once againe Calandrino and his subtle Consorts, by a pretty tale which I meane to tell you; how, and in what manner they were reuenged on him, for going to seeke the inusible Stone.

Needlesse were any fresh relation to you, what manner of peo∣ple those three men were, Calandrino, Bruno, and Buffalmaco, be∣cause already you haue had sufficient vnderstanding of them. And therefore, as an induction to my discourse, I must tell you, that Ca∣landrino had a small Country-house, in a Village some-what neere to Florence, which came to him by the marriage of his Wife. A∣mong other Cattle and Poultry, which he kept there in store, hee had a young Boare readie fatted for Brawne, whereof yearly he v∣sed to kill one for his owne prouision; and alwaies in the month of December, he and his wife resorted to their village house, to haue a Brawne both killed and salted.

It came to passe at this time concerning my Tale, that the Wo∣man being somewhat crazie and sickly, by her Husbands vnkinde vsage, whereof you heard so lately; Calandrino went alone to the killing of his Boare, which comming to the hearing of Bruno and Buffalmaco, and that the Woman could by no meanes be there: to passe away the time a little in merriment, they went to a friendlie Companion of theirs, an honest iouiall Priest, dwelling not farre off from Calandrinoes Countrey house.

The same morning as the Boare was kilde, they all three went thither, and Calandrino seeing them in the Priests companie: bad them all heartily welcome; and to acquaint them with his good Husbandry, hee shewed them his house, and the Boare where it hung. They perceyuing it to be faire and fat, knowing also, that Calandrino intended to salt it for his owne store, Bruno saide vnto him: Thou art an Asse Calandrino, sell thy Brawne, and let vs make merrie with the money: then let thy wife know no otherwise, but that it was stolne from thee, by those theeues which continually haunt coun∣try houses, especially in such scattering Villages.

Oh mine honest friends, answered Calandrino, your counsell is not to be followed, neither is my wife so easie to be perswaded: this wer the readiest way to make your house a hell, and she to become the Master-Diuell: therefore talke no further, for flatly I will not doe it. Albeit they laboured him very earnestly, yet all proued not to anie pur∣pose: onely he desired them to suppe with him, but in so colde a manner, as they denyed him, and parted thence from him. As they walked on the way, Bruno saide to Buffalmaco. Shall we three (this night) rob him of his Brawne? Yea marry (quoth Buffalmaco) how is it to be done? I haue (saide Bruno) alreadie found the meanes to ef∣fect it, if he take it not from the place where last we saw it. Let vs doe it then (answered Buffalmaco) why should we not do it? Sir Domine heere and we, will make good cheare with it among our selues. The nimble Priest was as forward as the best; and the match being ful∣ly agreed on, Bruno thus spake. My delicate Sir Domine, Art and

cunning must be our maine helps: for thou knowest Buffalmaco, what a couetous wretch Calandrino is, glad and readie to drink alwaies on other mens expences: let vs go take him with vs to the Tauern, where the Priest (for his owne honour and reputation) shall offer to make pai∣ment of the whole reckoning, without receiuing a farthing of his, whereof he will not be a little ioyfull, so shall we bring to passe the rest of the businesse, because there is no body in the house, but onely him∣selfe: for he is best at ease without company.

As Bruno had propounded, so was it accordingly performed, & when Calandrino perceyued, that the Priest would suffer none to pay, but himselfe, he dranke the more freely; and when there was no neede at all, tooke his Cuppes couragiously one after another. Two or three houres of the night were spent, before they parted from the Tauerne, Calandrino going directly home to his house, and instantly to bed, without any other supper, imagining that he had made fast his doore, which (indeede) he left wide open: sleep∣ing soundly▪ without suspition of any harme intended vnto him. Buffalmaco and Bruno went and supt with the Priest, and so soone as supper was ended, they tooke certaine Engines, for their better en∣tering into Calandrinoes house, and so went on to effect theyr pur∣pose. Finding the doore standing readie open, they entered in, tooke the Brawne, carried it with them to the Priests house, and af∣terward went all to bed.

When Calandrino had well slept after his Wine, he arose in the morning, and being descended downe the staires; finding the street doore wide open, he looked for the Brawne, but it was gone. En∣quiring of the neighbours dwelling neere about him, hee could heare no tydings of his Brawne, but became the wofullest man in the world, telling euery one that his Brawne was stolne. Bruno and Buffalmaco being risen in the morning, they went to visite Calan∣drino, to heare how he tooke the losse of his Brawne: and hee no sooner had a sight of them, but he called them to him; and with the teares running downe his cheekes, sayde: Ah my deare friendes, I am robde of my Brawne. Bruno stepping closely to him, sayde in his eare: It is wonderfull, that once in thy life time thou canst bee wise. How? answered Calandrino, I speake to you in good earnest. Speake so still in earnest (replied Bruno) and cry it out so loud as thou canst, then let who list beleeue it to be true.

Calandrino stampt and fretted exceedingly, saying: At I am a true man to God, my Prince, and Countrey, I tell thee truly, that my Brawne is stolne. Say so still I bid thee (answered Bruno) and let all the world beleeue thee, if they list to do so, for I will not. Wouldst thou (quoth Calandrino) haue me damne my selfe to the diuell? I see thou dost not credit what I say: but would I were hanged by the necke, if it

be not true, that my Brawne is stolne. How ca•• it possible be, replyed Bruno? Did not I see it in thy house yester night? Wouldst thou 〈◊〉〈◊〉 me beleeue, that it is flowne away? Although it is not flowne avvay (quoth Calandrino) yet I am certain, that it 〈◊〉〈◊〉 stolne away for which I am weary of my life, because I dare not go home to mine owne house, in regard my wife will neuer beleeue it; and yet if she should credite it, we are sure to haue no peace for a tweluemonths space.

Bruno, seeming as if he were more then halfe sorrowfull, yet sup∣porting still his former iesting humor, saide: Now trust mee Calan∣drino, if it be so; they that did it are much too blame. If it be so? an∣swered Calandrino, Belike thou vvouldst haue mee blaspheme Hea∣uen, and all the Saints therein: I tell thee once againe Bruno, that this last night my Brawne was stolne. Be patient good Calandrino, reply∣ed Buffalmaco, and if thy Brawne be stolne from thee, there are means enow to get it againe. Meanes enow to get it againe? said Calandri∣no, I would faine heare one likely one, and let all the rest go by. I am sure Calandrino, answered Buffalmaco, thou art verily perswaded, that no Theefe came from India, to steale thy Brawne from thee: in which respect, it must needes then be some of thy Neighbours: vvhom if thou couldst louingly assemble together, I knowe an experiment to be made vvith Bread and Cheese, whereby the party that hath it, will quickly be discouered.

I haue heard (quoth Bruno) of such an experiment, and helde it to be infallible; but it extendeth onely vnto persons of Gentilitie, whereof there are but few dwelling heere about, and in the case of stealing a Brawne, it is doubtfull to inuite them, neither can there be any certainty of their comming. I confesse what you say, aun∣swered Buffalmaco, to be very true: but then in this matter, so nere∣ly concerning vs to be done, and for a deare Friend, what is your aduice? I would haue Pilles made of Ginger, compounded with your best and strongest Malmsey, then let the ordinary sort of peo∣ple be inuited (for such onely are most to be mistrusted) and they will not faile to come, because they are vtterly ignorant of our in∣tention. Besides, the Pilles may as well bee hallowed and conse∣crated, as bread and cheese on the like occasion. Indeede you say true (replyed Buffalmaco) but what is the opinion of Calandrino? Is he willing to haue this try all made, or no? Yes, by all meanes, answered Calandrino, for gladly I would know who hath stolne my Brawne; and your good words haue (more then halfe) comfor∣ted me already in this case.

Well then (quoth Bruno) I will take the paines to go to Florence, to prouide all things necessarie for this secret seruice, but I must bee fur∣nished with money to effect it. Calandrino had some forty, shillings then about him, which he deliuered to Bruno, who presently went

to Florence, to a frend of his an Apothecarie, of whom he bought a pound of white Ginger, which hee caused him to make vppe in small Pilles: and two other beside of a Dogges-dates or Dowsets, confected all ouer with strong Aloes, yet well moulded in Sugare, as all the rest were: and because they should the more easily bee knowne from the other, they were spotted with Gold, in verie for∣mall and Physicall manner. He bought moreouer, a big Flaggon of the best Malmesey, returning backe with all these things to Ca∣landrino, and directing him in this order.

You must put some friend in trust, to inuite your Neighbors (especi∣ally such as you suspect) to a breakfast in the morning: and because it is done as a feast in kindnesse, they will come to you the more willing∣ly. This night will I and Buffalmaco take such order, that the Pilles shall haue the charge imposed on them, and then wee will bring them hither againe in the morning: and I my selfe (for your sake) will de∣liuer them to your guests, and performe whatsoeuer is to bee sayde or done. On the next morning, a goodly company being assembled, vnder a faire Elme before the Church; as well young Florentynes (who purposely came to make themselues merry) as neighbouring Husbandmen of the Village: Bruno was to begin the seruice, with the Pils in a faire Cup, and Buffalmaco followed him with another Cup, to deliuer the wine out of the Flaggon, all the company bee∣ing set round, as in a circle; and Bruno with Buffalmaco being in the midst of them, Bruno thus spake.

Honest friends, it is fit that I should acquaint you with the occasion, why we are thus met together, and in this place: because if anie thing may seeme offensiue to you; afterward you shall make no complaint of me. From Calandrino (our louing friend heere prefent) yesternight there was a new-kild fat Brawne taken, but who hath done the deede, as yet he knoweth not; and because none other, but some one (or more) heere among vs, must needs offend in this case: he, desiring to vnder∣stand who they be, would haue each man to receiue one of these Pilles, and afterward to drinke of this Wine; assuring you all, that whosoeuer stole the Brawne hence, cannot be able to swallow the Pill: for it wil be so extreme bitter in his mouth, as it will enforce him to Coughe and spet extraordinarily. In which respect, before such a notorious shame be receiued, and in so goodly an assembly, as now are heere present: it were much better for him or them that haue the Brawne, to confesse it in priuate to this honest Priest, and I will abstaine from vrging anie such publike proofe.

Euery one there present answered, that they were well conten∣ted both to eate and drinke, and let the shame fall where it deser∣ued; whereupon, Bruno appointing them how they should sit, and placing Calandrino as one among them: he began his counterfeite

exorcisme, giuing each man a Pill, and Buffalmaca a Cup of Wine after it. But when he came to Calandrino, hee tooke one of them which was made of the Dogges dates or Dowsets, and deliuering it into his hand, presently hee put it into his mouth and chewed it. So soone as his tongue tasted the bitter Aloes, he began to coughe and spet extreamly, as being vtterly vnable, to endure the bitter∣nesse and noysome smell. The other men that had receyued the Pils, beganne to gaze one vpon another, to see whose behauiour should discouer him; and Bruno hauing not (as yet) deliuered Pils to them all, proceeded on still in his businesse, as seeming not to heare any coughing, till one behinde him, saide. What meaneth Calandrino by this spetting and coughing?

Bruno sodainely turning him about, and seeing Calandrino to cough and spet in such sort, saide to the rest. Be not too rash (honest Friends) in iudging of any man, some other matter (then the Pille) may procure this Coughing, wherfore he shall receiue another, the bet∣ter to cleare your beleefe concerning him. He hauing put the second prepared Pill into his mouth, while Bruno went to serue the rest of the Guests: if the first was exceeding bitter to his taste, this other made it a great deale worse, for teares streamed forth of his eyes as bigge as Cherry-stones, and champing and chewing the Pill, as ho∣ping it would ouercome his coughing; he coughed and spette the more violently, and in grosser manner then he did before, nor did they giue him any wine to helpe it.

Buffalmaco, Bruno, and the whole company, perceiuing how he continued still his coughing and spetting, saide all with one voyce, That Calandrino was the Theefe to himselfe: and gaue him manie grosse speeches beside, all departing home vnto their houses, very much displeased and angry with him. After they were gone, none remained with him but the Priest, Bruno and Buffalmaco, who thus spake to Calandrino. I did euer thinke, that thou wast the theefe thy selfe, yet thou imputedst thy robbery to some other, for feare we should once drinke freely of thy purse, as thou hast done many times of ours. Calandrino, who had not yet ended his coughing and spetting, sware many bitter Oathes, that his Brawne was stolne from him. Talke so long as thou wilt, quoth Buffalmaco, thy knauery is both knowne and seene, and well thou mayst be ashamed of thy selfe. Calan∣drino hearing this, grew desperately angry; and to incense him more, Bruno thus pursued the matter.

Heare me Calandrino, for I speake to thee in honest earnest, there was a man in the company, who did eate and drinke heere among thy neighbours, and plainly told me, that thou keptst a young Lad heere to do thee seruice, feeding him with such victuals as thou couldst spare, by him thou didst send away thy Brawne, to one that bought it of thee

for foure Crownes, onely to cousen thy poore wife and vs. Canst thou not yet learne to leaue thy mocking and scorning? Thou hast forgotte, how thou broughtst vs to the plaine of Mugnone, to seeke for black in∣uisible stones: which hauing found, thou concealedst them to thy selfe, stealing home inuisibly before vs, and making vs follow like fooles af∣ter thee.

Now likewise, by horrible lying Oathes, and periured protestations, thou wouldst make vs to beleeue, that the Brawne (which thou hast cunningly sold for ready money) was stolne from thee out of thy house, when thou art onely th•• Theefe to thy selfe, as by that excellent rule of Art (which neuer faileth) hath plainly, to thy shame, appeared. Wee being so well acquainted with thy delusions, and knowing them per∣fectly; now do plainly tell thee, that we mean not to be foold any more. Nor is it vnknowne to thee, what paines vvee haue taken, in making this singular peece of proofe. Wherefore we inflict this punishment on thee, that thou shalt bestow on this honest Priest and vs, two couple of Capons, and a Flaggon of Wine, or else we will discouer this knauery of thine to thy Wife.

Calandrino perceiuing, that all his protestations could winne no credit with them, who had now the Law remaining in their owne hands, and purposed to deale with him as they pleased: apparant∣ly saw, that sighing and sorrow did nothing auaile him. Moreouer, to fall into his wiues tempestuous stormes of chiding, would bee worse to him then racking or torturing: he gladly therefore gaue them money, to buy the two couple of Capons and Wine, being heartily contented likewise, that hee was so well deliuered from them. So the merry Priest, Bruno, and Buffalmaco, hauing taken good order for salting the Brawne; closely carried it with them to Florence, leauing Calandrino to complaine of his losse, and well re∣quited, for mocking them with the inuisible stones.

A young Gentleman being a Scholler, fell in loue with a Ladie, named Helena, she being a Widdow, and addicted in affection to another Gentleman. One whole night in cold Winter, she caused the Schol∣ler to expect her comming, in an extreame frost and snow. In re∣uenge whereof, by his imagined Art and skill, he made her to stand naked on the top of a Tower, the space of a vvhole day, and in the hot moneth of Iuly, to be Sun-burnt and bitten with Waspes and Flies.

The Seuenth Nouell.

Seruing as an admonition to all Ladies and Gentlewomen, not to mock or scorne Gentlemen-Schollers, vvhen they make meanes of loue to them: Except they intend to seeke their owne shame, by disgracing them.

[illustration]

GReatly did the Ladies commend Madame Philomenaes Nouell, laughing heartily at poore Calandrino, yet grie∣uing withall, that he should be so knauishly cheated, not onely of his Brawne, but two couple of Capons, and a Flaggon of Wine beside. But the whole discourse being ended; the Queene commanded Madame Pampinea, to follow next with her Nouell, and presently she thus began. It hapneth oftentimes (bright beau∣ties) that mockery falleth on him, that intended the same vnto ano∣ther: And therefore I am of opinion, that there is very litle wisedom declared on him or her, vvho taketh delight in mocking any person.

I must needs confesse, that we haue smiled at many mockeries and de∣ceits, related in those excellent Nouels, which we haue already ••••ard: without any due reuenge returned, but onely in this last of silly Calan∣drino. Wherefore, it is now my determination, to vrge a kind of com∣passionate apprehension, vpon a very iust retribution, happening to a Gentlewoman of our Citie, because her scorne fell deseruedly vpon her selfe, remaining mocked, and to the perill of her life. Let me then as∣sure you, that your diligent attention may redound to your benefit, be∣cause if you keepe your selues (henceforward) from being scorned by o∣thers: you shall expresse the greater wisedome, and be the better war∣ned by their mishaps.

As yet there are not many yeares ouer-past, since there dwelt in Florence, a yong Lady, descended of Noble parentage, very beau∣tifull, of sprightly courage, and sufficiently abounding in the goods of Fortune, she being named Madame Helena. Her delight vvas to liue in the estate of Widdow-hood, desiring to match her selfe no more in marriage, because she bare affection to a gallant young Gentleman, whom she had made her priuate election of, and with whom (hauing excluded all other amorous cares and cogitations) by meanes of her Waiting-woman, she had diuers meetings, and kinde conferences.

It chanced at the verie same time, another young Gentleman of our Citie, called Reniero, hauing long studied in the Schooles at Paris, returned home to Florence, not to make sale of his Learning and experience, as many doe: but to vnderstand the reason of things, as also the causes and effects of them, which is meruailou∣sly fitting for any Gentleman. Being greatly honoured and estee∣med of euery one, as well for his courteous carriage towards all in generall, as for his knowledge and excellent parts: he liued more like a familiar Citizen, then in the nature of a Courtly Gentleman, albeit he was choisely respected in either estate.

But, as oftentimes it commeth to passe, that such as are endued with the best iudgement and vnderstanding in naturall occasions, are soonest caught and intangled in the snares of Loue: so fel it out with our Scholler Reniero, who being inuited to a solemne Feast, in company of other his especiall Friends; this Lady Helena, atty∣red in her blacke Garments (as Widowes commonly vse to wear) was likewise there a Guest. His eye obseruing her beauty and gra∣cious demeanour, she seemed in his iudgement, to be a Woman so compleate and perfect, as he had neuer seene her equall before: & therefore, he accounted the man more then fortunate, that vvas worthy to embrace her in his armes. Continuing this amorous ob∣seruation of her from time to time, and knowing withall, that rare

and excellent things are not easily obtained, but by painefull study, labour, and endeauour: hee resolued with himselfe constantly, to put in practise all his best parts of industry, onely to honour and please her, and attaining to her contentation, it would be the means to winne her loue, and compasse thereby his hearts desire.

The yong Lady, who fixed not her eyes on inferiour subiects (but esteemed her selfe aboue ordinary reach or capacity) could mooue them artificially, as curious women well know how to doe, loo∣king on euery side about her, yet not in a gadding or grosse manner for she was not ignorant in such darting glaunces, as proceeded from an enflamed affection, which appearing plainely in Reniero; with a pretty smile, shee said to her selfe. I am not come hither this day in vaine; for, if my iudgement faile me not, I thinke I haue caught a Woodcocke by the Bill. And lending him a cunning looke or two, queintly caried with the corner of her eye; she gaue him a kinde of perswading apprehension, that her heart was the guide to her eye. And in this artificial Schoole-tricke of hers, shee carryed therewith another consideration, to wit, that the more other eyes fedde them∣selues on her perfections, and were (well-neere) lost in them be∣yond recouery: so much the greater reason had he to account his fortune beyond comparison, that was the sole master of her heart, and had her loue at his command.

Our witty Scholler hauing set aside his Philosophicall considera∣tions, stroue how he might best vnderstand her carriage toward him, and beleeuing that she beheld him with pleasing regards; hee learned to know the house where shee dwelt, passing daily by the doore diuers times, vnder colour of some more serious occasions: wherein the Lady very proudly gloried, in regard of the reasons be∣fore alleadged, and seemed to affoord him lookes of good liking. Being led thus with a hopefull perswasion, hee found the meanes to gaine acquaintance with her waiting-woman, reuealing to her his intire affection, desiring her to worke for him in such sort with her Lady, that his seruice might be gracious in her acceptance. The Gentlewoman made him a very willing promise, and immediately did his errand to her Lady; who heard her with no small pride and squemishnesse, and breaking forth into a scornefull laughter, thus she spake.

Ancilla (for so she was named) dost thou not obserue, how this Schol∣ler is come to lose all the wit heere, which he studyed so long for in the Vniuersity of Paris? Let vs make him our onely Table argument, and seeing his folly soareth so high, we will feed him with such a dyet as hee deserueth. Yet when thou speakest next with him, tell him, that I af∣fect him more then he can doe me; but it becommeth me to be carefull of mine honour, and to walke with an vntainted brow, as other Ladies

and Gentlewomen doe: which he is not to mislike, if he be so wise as he maketh shew of, but rather will the more commend me. Alas good Lady lack-wit, little did she vnderstand (faire assembly) how dan∣gerous a case it is deale with Schollers.

At his next meeting with the waiting woman, shee deliuered the message, as her Lady had command her, whereof poore Reniero was so ioyfull: that hee pursued his loue-suite the more earnestly, and began to write letters, send gifts, and tokens, all which were still re∣ceiued, yet without any other answere to giue hope, but onely in generall, and thus shee dallied with him a long while. In the end, she discouered this matter to her secret chosen friend, who fell sud∣denly sicke of the head-ake, onely through meere conceit of iealou∣sie: which she perceiuing, and grieuing to be suspected without any cause, especially by him whom shee esteemed aboue all other; shee intended to rid him quickely of that Idle disease. And being more and more solicited by the Scholler, she sent him word by her maide Ancilla, that (as yet) she could find no conuenient opportunity, to yeeld him such assurance, as hee should not any way be distrustfull of her loue.

But the Feast of Christmas was now neere at hand, which affor∣ded leisures much more hopefull, then any other formerly passed. And therefore, the next night after the first Feasting day, if he plea∣sed to walke in the open Court of her house: she would soone send for him, into a place much better beseeming, and where they might freely conuerse together.

Now was our Scholler the onely iocond man of the world, and failed not the time assigned him, but went vnto the Ladies house, where Ancilla was ready to giue him entertainment, conducting him into the base Court, where she lockt him vp fast, vntill her La∣dy should send for him. This night shee had priuately sent for her friend also, and sitting merrily at supper with him, told him, what welcome she had giuen the Scholler, and how she further meant to vse him, saying. Now Sir, consider with your selfe, what hot affecti∣on I beare to him, of whom you became so fondly iealous. The which words were very welcome to him, and made him extraordinarily ioyful; desiring to see them as effectually performed, as they appea∣red to him by her protestations.

Heere you are to vnderstand (Gracious Ladies) that according to the season of the yeare, a great snow had falne the day before, so as the whole Court was couered therewith, and being an extreame frost vpon it, our S••holler could not boast of any warme walking, when the teeth quiuered in his head with cold, as a Dog could not be more discourteously vsed: yet hope of enioying Loues recom∣pence at length, made him to support all this iniury with admirable patience.

Within a while after, Madame Helena said to her friend. Walke with me (deare heart) into my Chamber, and there at a secret little window, I shall shew thee what he doth, that droue thee to such a suspiti∣on of me, and we shall heare beside, what answere he will giue my maide Ancilla, whom I will send to comfort him in his coldnesse.

When she had so said, they went to the appointed chamber win∣dow, where they could easily see him, but he not them: and then they heard Ancilla also, calling to him forth of another windowe, saying. Signior Reniero, my Lady is the wofullest woman in the world, because (as yet) she cannot come to you, in regard that one of her brethren came this euening to visite ••er, and held her with much longer discourse then she expected: whereby she was constrained to in∣uite him to sup with her, and yet he is not gone; but shortly I hope hee will, and then expect her comming presently; till when, she entreateth your genle sufferance.

Poore Reniero, our ouer-credulous Scholler, whose vehement af∣fection to Madame Helena, so hood-winkt the sight of his vnder∣standing, as he could not be distrustfull of any guilt; returned this answere to Ancilla. Say to your Lady that I am bound in duty, to at∣tend the good houre of her leisure, without so much as the very least preiudicate conceite in me: Neuerthelesse, entreat her, to let it bee so soone as she possibly may, because here is miserable walking, and it be∣gininneth againe to snow extreamely. Ancilla making fast the Case∣me••t, went presently to bed; when Helena spake thus to her amo∣rous friend. What saist thou now? Doest thou thinke that I loued him, as thou wast afraid of? If I did, he should neuer walke thus in the frost and snow. So, away went they likewise from their close gazing window, and spent wanton dalliances together, laughing, and de∣riding (with many bitter taunts and iests) the lamentable condition of poore Reniero.

About the Court walked hee numberlesse times, finding such exercises as he could best deuise, to compasse warmth in any man∣ner: no seate or shelter had he any where, either to ease himselfe by sitting downe a while, or keepe him from the snow, falling continu∣ally on him, which made him bestow many curses on the Ladies Brother, for his so long tarrying with her, as beleeuing him verily to be in the house, or else she would (long before) haue admitted his entrance, but therein his hope was meerely deceiued. It grew now to be about the houre of midnight, and Helena had delighted her selfe with her friend extraordinarily, til at last, thus she spake to him. What is thine opinion of my amourous Scholler? Which dost thou ima∣gine to be the greatest, either his sense and iudgement, or the affection I beare to him? Is not this cold sufferance of this, able to quench the violent ••eat of his loues extremitie, and hauing so much snow broth

to helpe it? Beleeue me (sweet Lady) quoth her friend, as hee is a man, and a learned Scholler, I pitty that he should bee thus vngently dealt withall: but as he is my riuall and loues enemy, I cannot allow him the least compassion, resting the more confidently assured of your loue to me, which I will alwayes esteeme most precious.

When they had spent a long while in this or the like conference, with infinite sweet kisses and embraces intermixed; then she began againe in this manner. Deare loue (quoth she) cast thy Cloake about thee, as I intend to doe with my night mantle, and let vs step to the little window once more, to see whether the flaming fire, which burned in the Schollers brest (as daily auouched to me in his loue letters) be as yet extinct or no. So going to the window againe, and looking downe into the Court; there they saw the Scholler dancing in the snow, to the cold tune of his teeths quiuering and chattering, and clapping his armes about his body, which was no pleasing melody to him. How thinkest thou now sweet heart (ssaide shee) cannot I make a man daunce without the sound of a Taber, or of a Bagpipe? yes beleeue me Lady (quoth he) I plaine perceiue you can, and would be ve∣ry lothe, that you should exercise your cunning on me. Nay, said shee, we will yet delight our selues a little more; let vs softly descend downe the stayres, euen so farre as to the Court doore: thou shalt not speake a word, but I will talke to him, and heare some part of his quiuering language, which cannot choose but bee passing pleasing for vs to heare.

Out of the Chamber went they, and descended downe the stayres to the Court doore; where, without opening it, she laide her mouth to a small cranny, and in a low soft kinde of voyce, called him by his name: which the Scholler hearing, was exceeding ioy∣ful, as beleeuing verily, that the houre of his deliuerance was come, and entrance now should be admitted him. Vpon the heating of her voyce, hee stept close to the doore, saying. For charities sake, good Lady, let me come in, because I am almost dead with cold; where∣to thus she answered in mocking manner. I make no doubt (my deare friend Renioero) but the night is indifferent colde, and yet somewhat the warmer by the Snowes falling: and I haue heard that such wea∣ther as this, is tenne-times more extreame at Paris, then heere in our warmer Countrey. And trust me, I am exceeding sorrowfull, that I may not (as yet) open the doore, because mine vnhappy brother, who came (vnexpected) yester-night to suppe with mee, is not yet gone, at within a short while (I hope) he will, and then shall I gladly set open the doore to you, for I made an excuse to steale a little from him, onely to cheare you with this small kind of comfort, that his so long tarrying might be the lesse offensiue to you.

Alas sweet Madame, answered quaking and quiuering Reniero,

bee then so fauourable to me, as to free me from forth this open Court, where there is no shelter or helpe for me, the snow falling still so excee∣dingly, as a man might easily be more then halfe buried in it: let me be but within your doore, and there I will wait your own good leisure. Alas deare Reniero (answered Helena) I dare not doe it, because the doore maketh such a noyse in the opening, as it will be too ••asily heard by my Brother: but I will goe and vse such meanes, as shortly hee shall get him gone, and then I dare boldly giue you entrance. Doe so good Madame, replyed Reniero, and let there be a faire fire made ready, that when I am within, I may the sooner warme my selfe; for I am so strangely benummed with colde, as well-neere I am past all sence of fee∣ling.

Can it be possible (quoth Helena) that you should be so benummed with colde? Then I plainely perceiue, that men can lye in their loue letters, which I can shew vnder your own hand, how you fryed in flames, and all for my loue, and so haue you written to me in euery letter. Poore credulous women are often thus deluded, in beleeuing what men write and speake out of passion: but I will returne backe to my Bro∣ther, and make no doubt of dispatch, because I would gladly haue your Company.

The amourous Friend to Helena, who stood by all this while, laughing at the Schollers hard vsage, returned vp againe with her to her Chamber, where they could not take a iote of rest, for flouting and scorning the betrayed Scholler. As for him poore man, hee was become like the Swanne, coldly chattering his teeth together, in a strange new kinde of harmony to him. And perceiuing him∣selfe to be meerely mocked, he attempted to get open the doore, or how he might passe forth at any other place: but being no way a∣ble to compasse it, he walked vp and downe like an angry Lyon, cursing the hard quality of the time, the discourtesie of the Lady, the ouer-tedious length of the night; but (most of all) his owne folly and simplicity, in being so basely abused and gulde. Now be∣gan the heat of his former affection to Helena, altered into as vio∣lent a detestation of her; Yea, extremity of hatred in the highest degree; beating his braines, and ransacking euery corner of inuen∣tion, by what meanes he might best be reuenged on her, which now he more earnestly desired to effect, then to enioy the benefit of her loue, or to be embraced betweene her armes.

After that the sad and discomfortable night had spent it selfe, & the break of day was beginning to appeare; Ancilla the waiting-woman, according as she was instructed by her Lady, went downe and opened the Court doore, and seeming exceedingly to com∣passionate the Schollers vnfortunate night of sufferance, saide vnto him.

Alas courteous Gentleman, in an vnblessed houre came my Ladyes brother hither yester-night, inflicting too much trouble vpon vs, and a grieuous time of affliction to you. But I am not ignorant, that you being vertuous, and a iudicious Scholler, haue an inuincible spirit of pacience, and sufficient vnderstanding withall; that what this night could not affoord, another may make a sound amends for. This I can and dare sufficiently assure you, that nothing could be more displeasing to my Lady, neither can she well be quieted in her mind: vntill she haue made a double and treble requitall, for such a strange vnexpected in∣conuenience, whereof she had not the very least suspition.

Reniero swelling with discontentment, yet wisely clouding it from open apprehension, and knowing well enough, that such gol∣den speeches and promises, did alwaies sauour of what intemperate spleene would more lauishly haue vented foorth, and therefore in a modest dissembling manner; without the least shew of any anger, thus he answered.

In good sadnesse Ancilla, I htue endured the most miserablest night of colde, frost and snow, that euer any poore Gentleman suffered; but I know well enough, your Lady was not in any fault thereof, neither me∣riteth to be blamed, for in her owne person (as being truely compassio∣nate of my distresse) she came so farre as the doore of this Court, to ex∣cuse her selfe, and comfort mee. But as you saide, and very well too, what hath failed this night, another hereafter may more fortunately performe: in hope whereof, commend my loue and duteous seruice to her, and (what else remaineth mine) to your gentle selfe.

So our halfe frozen Scholler, scarcely able to walke vpon his legges, returned home, (so well as hee could) to his owne lodging; where, his spirits being grieuously out of order, and his eyes staring gastly through lacke of sleepe: he lay downe on his bed, and after a little rest, he found himselfe in much worse condition then before, as meerely taken lame in his armes and his legges. Whereupon he was inforced to send for Phisitions, to be aduised by their coun∣cell, in such an extremity of cold receiued. Immediately, they made prouision for his healthes remedie (albeit his nerues and sinewes could very hardly extend themselues) yet in regard he was yong, & Summer swifly drawing on; they had the better hope of affecting his safty, out of so great and dangerous a cold.

But after he was become almost well and lusty againe, hee vsed to be seldome seene abroad for an indifferent while; concealing his intended reuenge secret to himselfe, yet appearing more affectionate to Madame Helena, then formerly he had beene.

Now, it came to passe (within no long while after) that Fortune being fauourable to our iniured Scholler, prepared a new accident, wherby he might fully effect his harts desire. For the lusty yong Gal∣lant,

who was Madame Helenaes deare darling and delight, and (for whose sake) she dealt so inhumanely with poore Reniero: became weary of her amourous seruice, and was fal•••• in liking of another Lady, scorning and disdaining his former Mistresse; whereat shee grew exceedingly displeased, and began to languish in sighes and teares.

But Ancilla her waiting-woman, compassionating the perilous condition of her Lady, and knowing no likely meanes whereby to conquer this oppressing melancholly, which shee suffered for the losse of her hearts chosen friend: at length she began to consider, that the Scholler still walked daily by the doore, as formerly hee was wont to doe, and (by him) there might some good be done.

A fond and foolish opinion ouerswayed her, that the Scholler was extraordinarily skilfull in the Art of Nigromancy, and could thereby so ouer-rule the heart of her lost friend, as hee should bee compelled to loue her againe, in as effectuall manner as before; herewith immediately she acquainted her Lady▪ who being as rash∣ly credulous, as her maide was opinionatiue (neuer considring, that if the Scholler had any experience in Negromancy, hee would thereby haue procured his owne successe) gaue releefe to her sur∣mise, in very Iouiall and comfortable manner, and entreated her in all kindnes, to know of him, whether he could worke such a busi∣nesse, or no, and (vpon his vndertaking to effect it) shee would giue absolute assurance, that (in recompence thereof) he should vnfai∣nedly obtaine his hearts desire. Ancilla was quicke and expeditious, in deliuering this message to discontented Reniero, whose soule being ready to mount out of his body, onely by conceit of ioy; cheareful∣ly thus he said within himselfe. Gracious Fortune! how highly am I obliged to thee for this so great a fauour? Now thou hast blest me with a happy time, to be iustly reuenged on so wicked a woman, who sought the vtter ruine of my life, in recompence of the vnfaigned affection I bare her. Returne to thy Lady (quoth he) and saluting her first on my behalfe, bid her to abandon all care in this businesse; for, if her a∣mourous Friend were in India, I would make him come (in meere de∣spight of his heart) and craue mercy of her for his base transgression. But concerning the meanes how, and in what manner it is to bee done, especially on her owne behalfe: I will impart it to her so soone as she pleaseth: faile not to tell her so constantly from me, with all my vtmost paines at her seruice.

Ancilla came iocondly home with her answere, and a conclusion was set downe for their meeting together at Santa Lucia del prato, which accordingly was performed▪ in very solemne conference be∣tween them. Her fond affection had such power ouer her, that shee had forgot, into what peril she brought his life, by such an vnnatural

night walke: but disclosed all her other intention to him, how loth she was to lose so deare a friend, and desiring him to exercise his vt∣most height of skil, with large promises of her manifold fauours to him, whereto our Scholler thus replyed.

Very true it is Madam, that among other studies at Paris, I learned the Art of Negromancy, the depth whereof I am as skilfull in, as anie other Scholler whatsoeuer. But, because it is greatly displeasing vnto God, I made a vow neuer to vse it, either for my selfe, or anie other. Neuerthelesse, the loue I beare you is of such power, as I know not vvell how to denie, whatsoeuer you please to command me: in which respect, if in doing you my very best seruice, I were sure to bee seized on by all the diuels: I will not faile to accomplish your desire, you onely hauing the power to command me. But let me tell you Madame, it is a matter not so easie to be performed, as you perhaps may rashly imagine, especi∣ally, when a Woman would repeale a man to loue her, or a man a vvo∣man: because, it is not to be done, but by the person vvhom it proper∣ly concerneth. And therefore it behoueth, that such as would haue this businesse effected, must be of a constant minde, without the least scruple of feare: because it is to be accomplished in the darke night season, in vvhich difficulties I doe not know, how you are able to vvarrant your selfe, or whether you haue such courage of spirit, as (with boldnes) to aduenture.

Madame Helena, more hot in pursuite of her amorous content∣ment, then any way gouerned by temperate discretion, presently thus answered. Sir, Loue hath set such a keene edge on my vnconquer∣able affection, as there is not any daunger so difficult, but I dare reso∣lutely vndertake it, for the recouery of him, who hath so shamefullie refused my kindnesse: vvherefore (if you please) shew mee, vvherein I must be so constant and dreadlesse. The Scholler, who had (more then halfe) caught a right Ninny-hammer by the beake, thus re∣plyed. Madame, of necessity I must make an image of Tin, in the name of him whom you desire to recall. Which when I haue sent you, the Moone being then in her full, and your selfe stript starke naked: immediately after your first sleepe, seauen times you must bathe your selfe with it in a swift running Riuer. Afterward, naked as you are, you must climbe vp vpon some tree, or else vpon an vn∣inhabited house top, where standing dreadlesse of any perill, and turning your face to the North, with the Image in your hand, sea∣uen times you must speake such wordes, as I will deliuer to you in writing.

After you haue so often spoken them, two goodly Ladies (the very fairest that euer you beheld) wil appeare vnto you, very gra∣ciously saluting you, and demanding what you would haue them to performe for you. Safely you may speake vnto them, and or∣derly

tel them what you desire: but ••e very careful, that you 〈◊〉〈◊〉 not one man insted of another. When you haue vttered your mind, they wil depart from you, and then you may descend againe to the place where you did leaue your g••••••ents, which ••••uing putte on, then returne to your house. And vndoubtedly, before the midst of the next night following, your friend wil come in teares to you, and humbly craue your pardon on his knees; beeing neuer able af∣terward to be false to you, or leaue your Loue for any other what∣soeuer.

The Lady hearing these words, gaue very setled beleefe to thē, imagining vnfainedly, that shee had (more then halfe) recouered her friend already, and held him embraced betweene her armes: in which iocond perswasion, the chearful blood mounted vp into hir cheekes, and thus she replyed. Neuer make you any doubt Sir, but that I can sufficiently performe whatsoeuer you haue said, and am prouided of the onely place in the world, where such a weighty bu∣sinesse is to be effected. For I haue a Farme or dairy house, neere adioyning to the vale of Arno, & closely bordering vpon the same Riuer. It beeing now the moneth of Iuly, the most conuenientest time of all the yeare to bathe in; I can bee the easier induced there∣unto.

Moreouer, there is hard by the Riuers side a smal Tower or Tur∣ret vninhabited; whereinto few people do sildome enter, but onely Heardsmen or Flocke-keepers, who ascend vppe (by the helpe of a wodden Ladder) to a Tarrasse on the top of the saide Tower, to looke all about for their beasts, when they are wandred astray: it standing in a solitary place, and out of the common way or resort. There dare I boldly aduenture to mount vp, and with the inuinci∣ble courage of a wronged Lady (not fearing to looke death himself in the face) do al that you haue prescribed, yea, and much more, to recouer my deare lost Louer againe, whom I value equal with my owne Life.

Reniero, who perfectly knew both the Dairy Farme, and the old smal Turret, not a little ioyful, to heare how forward shee vvas to shame her selfe, answered in this manner. Madame, I was neuer in those parts of the Country, albeit they are so neere to our City, & ther∣fore I must needs be ignorant, not onely of your Farme, but the Turret also. But if they stand in such conuenient manner as you haue descri∣bed, all the vvorld could not yeelde the like elsewhere, so apt and suta∣ble to your purpose: wherefore, vvith such expedition as possibly I can vse, I will make the Image, and send it you, as also the charme, verie fairely written. But let me entreate you, that vvhen you haue obtay∣ned your hearts desire, and are able to iudge truely of my loue and ser∣uice: not to be vnmindfull of me, but (at your best leysure) to performe

what you haue with such protestations promised; which shee gaue him her ha••d and faith to do, without any impeach or hinderance: and so parting, she returned home to her house.

Our ouer-ioyed Scholler, applauding his happy Starres, for fur∣thering him with so faire a way to his reuenge; immagining that it was already halfe executed, made the Image in due forme, & wrote an old Fable, insted of a Charme; both which he sent to the La∣dy, so soone as he thought the time to be fitting: and this admoni∣tion withall, that the Moone being entering into the full, without any longer delay, she might venter on the businesse the next night following, and remaine assured to repossesse her friend. Afterward for the better pleasing of himselfe, he went secretly attended, onely by his seruant, to the house of a trusty frend of his, who dwelt som∣what neere to the Turret, there to expect the issue of this Lady-like enterprize. And Madam Helena accompanied with none but Ancil∣la, walked on to her dairy Farme, where the night ensuing, pretend∣ing to take her rest sooner then formerly she vsed to doe, she com∣manded Ancilla to go to bed, referring her selfe to her best liking.

After she had slept her first sleepe (according to the Schollers di∣rection) departing softly out of her chamber, she went on towards the ancient Tower, standing hard by the riuer of Arno, looking eue∣ry way heedfully about hir, least she should be spied by any person. But perceiuing hir selfe to be so secure as she could desire; putting off all her garments, she hid them in a small brake of bushes: after∣ward, holding the Image in hir hand, seuen times she bathd hir bo∣dy in the riuer, and then returned back with it to the Tower. The Scholler, who at the nights closing vp of day, had hid himselfe a∣mong the willowes & other trees, which grew very thick about the Tower, saw both hir going and returning from the Riuer, and as she passed thus naked by him, he plainly perceyued, that the nights ob∣scurity could not cloud the delicate whitenes of hir body, but made the Starres themselues to gaze amorously on her, euen as if they were proud to behold her bathing, and (like so many twinkling Ta∣pers) shewed hir in emulation of another Diana. Now, what con∣flicts this sight caused in the mind of our Scholler, one while, quen∣ching his hatefull spleen towards hir, al coueting to imbrace a piece of such perfection: another while, thinking it a purchase fit for one of Cupids soldiers, to seize and surprize hir vppon so faire an aduan∣tage, none being neere to yeild her rescue: in the fiery triall of such temptations, I am not able to iudge, or to say, what resistance flesh and blood could make, being opposed with such a sweet enemy.

But he well considering what she was, the greatnes of his iniury, as also how, and for whom: he forgot all wanton allurements of Loue, scorning to entertaine a thought of compassion, continuing

constant in his resolution, to let her suffer, as he himselfe had done. So, Helena being mounted vp on the Turret, and turning her face towards the North; she repeated those idle friuolous words (com∣posed in the nature of a charme) which shee had receiued from the Scholler. Afterward, by soft and stealing steps, hee went into the old Tower, and tooke away the Ladder, whereby she ascended to the Tarras, staying and listening, how shee proceeded in her amo∣rous exorcisme.

Seuen times she rehearsed the charme to the Image, looking still when the two Ladies would appeare in their likenesse, and so long she held on her imprecations (feeling greater cold, then willinglie she would haue done) that breake of day began to shew it selfe, and halfe despairing of the Ladies comming, according as the Scholler had promised, she said to her selfe: I much misdoubt, that Reniero hath quitted me with such another peece of night-seruice, as it vvas my lucke to bestow on him: but if he haue done it in that respect, hee was but ill aduised in his reuenge, because the night wants now three parts of the length, as then it had: and the cold which he suffered, was far superior in quality to mine, albeit it is more sharp now in the mor∣ning, then all the time of night it hath bin.

And, because day-light should not discouer her on the Tarrasse, she went to make her descent downe againe: but finding the Lad∣der to be taken away, & thinking how her publike shame was now ineuitable, her heart dismayed, and shee fell downe in a swoune on the Tarras: yet recouering her senses afterward, her greefe and so∣row exceeded all capacity of vtterance. For, now she became ful∣ly perswaded, that this proceeded from the Schollers malice, re∣penting for her vnkinde vsage towards him, but much more con∣demning her selfe, for reposing any trust in him, who stood bound (by good reason) to be her enemy.

Continuing long in this extreame affliction, and surueighing all likely meanes about her, whereby she might descend from the Tar∣ras, whereof she was wholly disappointed: she began to sighe and weepe exceedingly, and in this heauy perplexity of spirit, thus shee complained to her selfe. Miserable and vnfortunate Helena, what will be saide by thy Bretheren, Kindred, Neighbours, and generallie throughout all Florence, when they shall know, that thou wast founde heere on this Turret, starke naked? Thine honourable carriage, and honesty of life, heeretofore free from a thought of suspition, shall novv be branded with detestation; and if thou wouldst cloud this mishappe of thine, by such lies and excuses, as are not rare amongst women: yet Reniero that wicked Scholler, who knoweth all thy priuy compacting, will stand as a thousand witnesses against thee, and shame thee before the whole City, so both thine honor and loued frie••d are lost for euer.

Hauing thus consulted with her selfe, many desperate motions entred her minde, to throw her selfe headlong from off the Tarras; till better thoughts wone possession of her soule. And the Sunne being risen, shee went to euery corner of the Tarras, to espye any Lad come abroad with his beasts, by whom she might send for her waiting-woman. About this instant, the Scholler who lay sleeping (all this while) vnder a bush, suddenly awaking; saw her looke o∣uer the wall, and she likewise espyed him; whereupon hee said vnto her. Good morrow Madame Helena, What? are the Ladies come yet or no? Helena hearing his scorning question, and grieuing that hee should so delude her: in teares and lamentations, she intreated him to come neere the Tower, because she desired to speake with him. Which courtesie he did not deny her, and she lying groueling vp∣on her brest on the Tarras, to hide her body that no part thereof might be seene, but her head; weeping, she spake thus to him.

Reniero, vpon my credit, if I gaue thee an ill nights rest, thou hast well reuenged that wrong on me; for, although wee are now in the moneth of Iuly, I haue beene plagued with extremity of colde (in re∣gard of my nakednesse) euen almost frozen to death: beside my conti∣nuall teares and lamenting, that folly perswaded me to beleeue thy pro∣testations, wherein I account it well-neere miraculous, that mine eyes should be capable of any sight. And therefore I pray thee, not in respect of any loue which thou canst pretend to beare me; but for regard of thine owne selfe, being a Gentleman and a Scholler, that this punishment which thou hast already inflicted vpon me, may suffi••e for my former iniuries towards thee, and to hold thy selfe reuenged fully, as also permit my gar∣ments to be brought me, that I may descend from hence, without taking that from me, which afterward (although thou wouldst) thou canst ne∣uer restore me, I meane mine honour. And consider with thy selfe, that albeit thou didst not inioy my company that vnhappy night, yet thou hast power to command me at any time whensoeuer, with making many diuer∣sities of amends, for one nights offence only committed. Content thy selfe then good Reniero, and as thou art an honest Gentleman, say thou art sufficiently reuenged on me, in making me dearely confesse mine owne errour. Neuer exercise thy malice vpon a poore weake woman, for the Eagle disdaineeh to pray on the yeelding Doue: and therefore in meere pitty, and for manhoods sake, be my release from open shame and reproch.

The Scholler, whose enuious spleene was swolne very great, in remembring such a malicious cruelty exercised on him, beholding her to weepe and make such lamentations; found a fierce conflict in his thoughts, betweene content and pitty. It did not a little ioy and content him that the reuenge which hee so earnestly desired to compasse, was now by him so effectually inflicted. And yet (in meere humanity) pitty prouoked him, to commisserate the Ladies distres∣sed

condition: but clemency being ouer-weake to withstand his rigor, thus he replied. Madam Helena, if mine entreaties (which, to speake truly, I neuer knew how to steepe in tears, nor wrap vp my words in sugar Candie, so cuningly as you women know how to do) could haue preuailed, that miserable night, when I was well-neere frozen to death with cold, and meerly buried with snow in your Court, not hauing anie place of rescue or shelter; your complaints would now the more easily o∣uer-rule me. But if your honor in estimation, bee now more precious to you the•• heretofore, and it seemeth so offensiue to stand there naked: conuert your perswasions & prayers to him, in whose armes you vvere that night imbraced, both of your triumphing in my misery, when poor I, trotted about your Court, with the teeth quiuering in my head, and beating mine armes about my body, finding no compassion in him, or you. Let him bring thee thy Garments, let him come helpe thee down with the Ladder, and let him haue the care of thine honour, on whom thou hast bene so prodigall heretofore in bestowing it, and now hast vn∣womanly throwne thy selfe in perill, onely for the maintenance of thine immodest desires.

Why dost thou not call on him to come helpe thee? To whom doeth it more belong, then to him? For thou art his, and he thine. Why thē shold any other but he help thee in this distresse? Call him (foole as thou art) and try, if the loue he beareth thee, and thy best vnderstanding ioyned with his, can deliuer thee out of my sottish detaining thee. I haue not forgot, that when you both made a pastime of my misery, thou didst de∣mand of him, which seemed greatest in his opinion, either my sottish simplicity, or the loue thou barest him. I am not now so liberall or cour∣teous, to desire that of thee, which thou wouldst not grant, if I did re∣quest it: No, no, reserue those night fauours for thy amorous friend, if thou dost escape hence aliue to see him againe. As for my selfe, I leaue thee freely to his vse and seruice: because I haue sufficiently payde for a womans falshood, & wisemen take such warning, that they scorne to bee twice deceiued, & by one woman. Proceed on stil in thy flattering per∣swasions, terming me to be a Gentleman and a Scholler, thereby to win such fauor from me, that I should think thy villany toward me, to be al∣ready sufficiently punished▪ No, trecherous Helena, thy blandishments cannot now hoodwink the eies of my vnderstanding, as when thou didst out-reach me with thy disloyall promises and protestations. And let me now tell thee plainely, that all the vvhile I continued in the Vni∣uersitie of Paris, I neuer attained vnto so perfect an vnderstanding of my selfe, as in that one miserable night thou diddest enstruct mee. But admit, that I were enclined vnto a mercifull and compassionate minde, yet thou art none of them, on whome milde and gracious mercy should any way declare her effects. For, the end of pennance a∣mong sauage beasts, such as thou art, and likewise of due vengeance,

ought to be death: whereas among men, it should suffice according to thine owne saying. Wherefore, in regard that I am neither an Eagle, nor thou a Doue, but rather a most venomous Serpent: I purpose with my vtmost hatred, and as an ancient enemy to all such as thou art, to make my reuenge famous on thee.

I am not ignorant, that whatsoeuer I haue already done vnto thee, cannot properly be termed reuenge, but rather chastisement; because reuenge ought alwayes to exceede the offence, which (as yet) I am farre enough from. For, if I did intend to reuenge my wrongs, and remem∣bred thy monstrous cruelty to me: thy life, if I tooke it from thee, and an hundred more such as thy selfe, were farre insufficient, because in killing thee, I should kill but a vile inhumane beast, yea, one that de∣serued not the name of a Woman. And, to speake truely, Art thou any more, or better (setting aside thy borrowed haire, and painted beauty, which in few yeares will leaue thee wrinkled and deformed) then the basest beggarly Chamber-stuffe that can bee? Yet thou soughtest the death of a Gentleman and Scholler as (in scorne) not long since, thou didst terme me: whose life may hereafter be more beneficiall vnto the world, then millions of such as thou art, to liue in the like multiplicity of ages. Therefore, if this anguish be sensible to thee, learne what it is to mocke men of apprehension, and (amongst them especially) such as are Schollers: to preuent thy falling hereafter into the like extremity, if it be thy good lucke to escape out of this.

It appeareth to me, that thou art verie desirous to come downe hi∣ther on the ground; the best counsell that I can giue thee, is to leape downe headlong, that by breaking thy necke (if thy fortune be so faire) thy life and lothsome qualities ending together, I may sit and smile at thy deserued destruction. I haue no other comfort to giue thee, but on∣ly to boast my happinesse, in teaching thee the way to ascend that Tow∣er, and in thy descending downe (euen by what means thy wit can best deuise) make a mockery of me, and say thou hast learned more, then all my Schollership could instruct thee.

All the while as Reniero vttered these speeches, the miserable La∣dy sighed and wept very grieuously, the time running on, and the Sunne ascending higher and higher; but when she heard him silent, thus she answered. Vnkinde and cruell man, if that wretched night was so greeuous to thee, and mine offence appeared so great, as neither my youth, beautie, teares, and humble intercessious, are able to de∣riue any mercy from thee; yet let the last consideration mooue thee to some remorse: namely, that I reposed new confidence in thee (whē I had little or no reason at all to trust thee) and discouered the integritie of my soule vnto thee, whereby thou didst compasse the meanes, to punish me thus deseruedly for my sinne. For, if I had not reposed confidence in thee, thou couldst not (in this maner) haue wrought reuenge on me,

which although thou didst earnestly couet, yet my rash credulitie was thy onely helpe. Asswage then thine anger, and graciously pardon me, wherein if thou wilt be so mercifull to me, and free me from this fatall Tower: I do heere faithfully promise thee, to forsake my most false and disloyall friend, electing thee as my Lord and constant Loue for euer.

Moreouer, although thou condemnest my beauty greatly, esteeming it as a trifle, momentary, and of slender continuance; yet, such as it is (being comparable with any other womans whatsoeuer) I am not so ignorant, that were there no other reason to induce liking thereof: yet men in the vigour of their youth (as I am sure you think your selfe not aged) do hold it for an especiall delight, ordained by nature for them to admire and ho∣nour. And notwistanding all thy cruelty extended to mee, yet I cannot be perswaded, that thou art so flinty or Iron-hearted, as to desire my mi∣serable death, by casting my selfe headlong downe (like a desperate madde woman) before thy face so to destroy that beuty, which (if thy Letters ly∣ed not) was once so highly pleasing in thine eyes. Take pitty then on mee for charities sake, because the Sunne beginneth to heate extreamely: and as ouer-much colde (that vnhappy night) was mine offence, so let not o∣uer-violent warmth be now my vtter ruine and death.

The Scholler, who (onely to delight himselfe) maintained this long discoursing with her, returned her this answere. Madame, you did not repose such confidence in me, for any good will or affection in you towards me, but in hope of recouering him whom you had lost; wherein you merit not a iot of fauour, but rather the more sharpe and seuere in∣fliction. And whereas you inferre, that your ouer-rash credulity, gaue the onely meanes to my reuenge: Alas! therein you deceiue your selfe; for I haue a thousand crochets working continually in my brain, wher∣by to entrap a wiser creature then a woman, yet veiled all vnder the cunning cloake of loue, but sauced with the bitter Wormewood of hate. So that, had not this hapned as now it doth, of necessity you must haue falne into another: but, as it hath pleased my happy stars to fauour mee therein, none could prooue more to your eternall scandall and disgrace, then this of your owne deuising; which I made choise of, not in regard of any ease to you, but onely to content my selfe.

But if all other deuises els had failed, my pen was and is my preuay∣ling Champion, where with I would haue written such and so many strange matters, concerning you in your very dearest reputation; that you should haue curst the houre of your conception, & wisht your birth had bin abortiue. The powers of the pen are too many & mighty, wher∣of such weake wits as haue made no experience, are the lesse able to vse any relation. I sweare to you Lady, by my best hopes, that this reuenge which (perhappes) you esteeme great and dishonourable, is no vvay compareable to the vvounding Lines of a Penne, which can carracter

downe so infinite infamies (yet none but guilty and true taxations) as will make your owne hands immediate instruments, to teare the eyes from forth your head, and so bequeath your after dayes vnto perpetuall darkenesse.

Now, concerning your lost louer, for whose sake you suffer this vn∣expected pennance; although your choise hath proued but bad, yet still continue your affection to him: in regard that I haue another Ladie and Mistresse, of higher and greater desert then you, and to whome I will continue for euer constant. And whereas you thinke, the warme beames of the Sunne, will be too hot and scorching for your nice bodie to endure: remember the extreame cold which you caused mee to feele, and if you can intermixe some part of that cold with the present heat, I dare assure you, the Sun (in his highest heate) will be far more tem∣perate for your feeling.

The disconsolate Lady perceiuing, that the Schollers wordes sa∣uoured of no mercy, but rather as couering her desperate ending; with the teares streaming downe her cheekes, thus she replied. Wel Sir, seeing there is no matter of worth in me, whereby to deriue a∣ny compassion from you: yet for that Ladies sake, whom you haue elected worthy to enioy your loue, and so farre excelleth mee in Wisedome; vouchsafe to pardon mee, and suffer my garments to be brought me, wherewith to couer my nakednesse, and so to des∣cend downe from this Tower, if it may stand with your gentle Na∣ture to admit it.

Now beganne Reniero to laughe very heartily, and perceiuing how swiftly the day ran on in his course, he saide vnto her. Beleeue me Madame Helena, you haue so coniured me by mine endeered Ladie and Mistresse, that I am no longer able to deny you; wherefore, tell me where your garments are, and I will bring them to you, that you may come downe from the Turret. She beleeuing his promise, tolde him where she had hid them, and Reniero departing from the Tower, commanded his seruant, not to stirre thence: but to abide still so neere it, as none might get entrance there till his returning. Which charge was no sooner giuen to his man, but hee went to the house of a neere neighboring friend, where he dined well, and afterward laid him downe to sleepe.

In the meane while, Madame Helena remaining still on the To∣wer, began to comfort her selfe with a little vaine hope, yet sigh∣ing and weeping incessantly, seating her selfe so well as shee could, where any small shelter might yeelde the least shade, in expectation of the Schollers returning: one while weeping, then againe ho∣ping, but most of all despairing, by his so long tarrying away with her Garments; so that beeing ouer-wearied with anguish and long watching, she fell into a little slumbering. But the Sunne was so

extreamly hot, the houre of noone being already past, that it meer∣ly parched her delicate body, and burnt her bare head so violently: as not onely it seared all the flesh it touched; but also cleft & chinkt it strangely, beside blisters and other painfull scorchings in the flesh which hindred her sleeping, to help her self (by all possible means) waking. And the Turret being couered with Lead, gaue the grea∣ter addition to her torment; for, as she remoued from one place to another, it yeelded no mitigation to the burning heate, but parch∣ed and wrinkled the flesh extraordinarily, euen as when a piece of parchment is throwne into the fire, and recouered out againe, can neuer be extended to his former forme.

Moreouer, she was so grieuously payned with the head-ake, as it seemed to split in a thousand pieces, whereat there needed no great maruaile, the Lead of the Turret being so exceedingly hot, that it affoorded not the least defence against it, or any repose to qualifie the torment: but droue her still from one place to another, in hope of ease, but none was there to be found.

Nor was there any winde at all stirring, whereby to asswage the Sunnes violent scalding, or keepe away huge swarmes of Waspes, Hornets, and terrible byting Flyes, which vexed her extreamely, feeding on those parts of her body, that were rifte and chinkt, like crannies in a mortered wall, and pained her like so many points of pricking Needles, labouring still with her hands to beate them a∣way, but yet they fastned on one place or other, and afflicted her in grieuous manner, causing her to curse her owne life, hir amorous friend, but (most of all) the Scholler, that promised to bring her Garments, and as yet returned not. Now began she to gaze vpon euery side about her, to espy some labouring Husbandmen in the fields, to whom she might call or cry out for helpe, not fearing to discouer her desperate condition: but Fortune therein also was ad∣uerse to her, because the heats extreamity, had driuen all the village out of the fields, causing them to feede their Cattle about theyr owne houses, or in remote and shadie Valleyes: so that shee could see no other creatures to comfort her, but Swannes swimming in the Riuer of Arno, and wishing her selfe there a thousand times with them, for to coole the extreamity of her thirst, which so much the more encreased, onely by the sight thereof, and vtterly disabled of hauing any.

She saw beside in many places about her, goodly Woods, fayre coole shades, and Country houses here and there dispersed; which added the greater violence to hir affliction, that her desires (in all these) could no way be accomplished. What shall I say more con∣cerning this disastrous Lady? The parching beames of the Sunne aboue her, the scalding heat of the Lead beneath her, the Hornets

and Flyes euerie way stinging her, had made such an alteration of her beautifull bodie: that, as it checkt and controlled the prece∣dent nights darkenesse, it was now so metamorphosed with red∣nesse, yea, and blood issuing forth in infinite places, as she seemed (almost) lothsome to looke on, continuing still in this agonie of torment, quite voyde of all hope, and rather expecting death, then any other comfort.

Reniero, when some three houres of the afternoone were ouer∣past, awaked from sleeping: and remembring Madame Helena, he went to see in what estate she was; as also to send his seruant vnto dinner, because he had fasted all that day. She perceyuing his ar∣riuall, being altogether weake, faint, and wonderously ouer-weari∣ed, she crept on her knees to a corner of the Turret, and calling to him, spake in this manner. Reniero, thy reuenge exceedeth al man∣hoode and respect: For, if thou wast almost frozen in my Court, thou hast roasted me all day long on this Tower, yea, meerly broy∣led my poore naked bodie, beside staruing mee thorough want of Food and drinke. Be now then so mercifull (for manhoods sake) as to come vppe hither, and inflict that on me, which mine owne hands are not strong enough to do, I meane the ending of my loa∣thed and wearisome life, for I desire it beyond all comfort else, and I shall honour thee in the performance of it. If thou deny me this gracious fauour; at least send me vppe a glasse of Water, onely to moisten my mouth, which my teares (being all meerly dried vp) are not able to doe, so extreame is the violence of the Sunnes bur∣ning heate.

Well perceiued the Scholler, by the weaknesse of her voyce, and scorching of her body by the Suns parching beames, that shee was brought now to great extremity: which sight, as also her humble in∣tercession, began to touch him with some compassion, neuertheles, thus he replied. Wicked woman, my hands shalbe no means of thy death, but make vse of thine owne, if thou be so desirous to haue it: and as much water shalt thou get of me to asswage thy thirst, as thou gauest me fire to comfort my freezing, when thou wast in the luxu∣rious heat of thy immodest desires, and I wel-neere frozen to death with extremity of cold. Pray that the Euening may raine downe Rose-water on thee, because that in the Riuer of Arno is not good enough for thee: for as little pitty doe I take on thee now, as thou didst extend compassion to me then.

Miserable Woman that I am, answered Helena; Why did the hea∣uens bestow beautie on mee, vvhich others haue admired and honou∣red, and yet (by thee) is vtterly despised? More cruell art thou then any sauage Beast; thus to vexe and torment mee in such mercilesse manner. What greater extreamity couldst thou inflict on me, if I had

bin the destruction of all thy Kindred, and lefte no one man liuing of thy race? I am verily per••waded, that more cruelty cannot be vsed a∣gainst a Traitor, who was th•• subuersion of an whole Cittie, then this tyranny of thine, roasting me thus in the beames of the Sun, and suffe∣ring my body to be deuoured with Elies, without so small a mercie, as to giue mee a little coole water, which murtherers are permitted to haue, being condemned by Iustice, and led to execution: yea Wine also, if they request it.

But, seeing thou art so constant in thy pernitious resolue, as neither thine owne good Nature, nor this lamentable sufferance in me, are able to alter thee: I will prepare my self for death patiently, to the end, that Heauen may be mercifull to my soul, and reward thee iustly, according to thy cruelty. Which words being ended, she withdrew her selfe towards the middest of the Tarras, despairing of escaping (vvith life) from the heates violence; and not once onely, but infinite times beside (among her other grieuous extreamities) she was rea∣dy to dye with drought, bemoaning incessantly her dolorous con∣dition.

By this time the day was well neere spent, and night beganne to hasten on apace: when the Scholler (immagining that he afflicted her sufficiently) tooke her Garments, and wrapping them vp in his mans Cloake, went thence to the Ladies house, where he found Ancilla the Waiting-woman sitting at the doore, sad and discon∣solate for her Ladies long absence, to whom thus he spake. How now Ancilla? Where is thy Lady and Mistris? Alas Sir (quoth she) I know not. I thought this morning to haue found her in her bed, as vsually I was wont to do, and where I left her yesternight at our parting: but there she was not, nor in any place else of my knowledge, neyther can I imagine what is become of her, which is to me no meane discomfort.

But can you (Sir) say any thing of her? Ancilla, said he, I would thou hadst bin in her company, and at the same place where now she is, that some punishment for thy fault might haue falne vppon thee, as already it hath done on her. But beleeue it assuredly, that thou shalt not freely escape from my fingers, till I haue iustly paide thee for thy paines, to teach thee to abuse any Gentleman, as thou didst me.

Hauing thus spoken, hee called to his seruant, saying. Giue her the Garments, and bid her go looke her Lady, if she will. The Ser∣uingman fulfilled his Masters command, and Ancilla hauing recey∣ued her Ladies cloaths, knowing them perfectly, and remembring (withall) what had bin said: she waxed very doubtfull, least they had slaine her, hardly refraining from exclaiming on them, but that greete and heauie weeping ouercame her; so that vppon the Schol∣lers

departing, she ranne in all hast with the garments towardes the Tower.

Vpon this fatall and vnfortunate day to Madame Helena, it chan∣ced, that a Clowne or Countrey Peazant belonging to her Farme or Dairy house, hauing two of his young Heyfers wandred astray, and he labouring in diligent search to finde them: within a while after the Schollers departure, came to seeke them in Woods about the Tower, and, notwithstanding all his crying and calling for his beasts, yet he heard the Ladies greeuous moanes and lamentations. Wherefore, he cryed out so lowd as he could, saying: Who is it that mourneth so aloft on the Tower? Full well she knew the voyce of her peazant, and therefore called vnto him, and sayd in this ma∣ner.

Go (quoth she) I pray thee for my Waiting-woman Ancilla, and bid her make some meanes to come vp hither to me. The Clowne knowing his Lady, sayde. How now Madame? Who hath carri∣ed you vp there so high? Your Woman Ancilla hath sought for you all this day, yet no one could euer haue immagined you to bee there. So looking about him, he espyed the two sides of the Lad∣der, which the Scholler had pulled in sunder; as also the steppes, which he had scattered thereabout; placing them in due order a∣gaine as they should bee, and binding them fast with Withies and Willowes.

By this time Ancilla was come thither, who so soone as shee was entred into the Tower, could not refrain from teares & complaints, beating her hands each against other, and crying out. Madam, Ma∣dam, my deare Lady and Mistresse! Alas, Where are you? So soone as she heard the tongue of Ancilla, she replyed (so well as she could) saying: Ah my sweet Woman, I am heere aloft vppon the Tarras; weepe not, neyther make any noyse, but quickely bring me some of my Garments. When shee heard her answer in such com∣fortable maner, she mounted vp the Ladder, which the peazant had made very firme and strong, holding it fast for her safer ascending; by which meanes she went vp on the Tarras. Beholding her Ladie in so strange a condition, resembling no humane body, but rather the trunke of a Tree halfe burned, lying flat on her face, naked, scor∣ched and strangely deformed: shee beganne to teare the lockes of her owne hayre, rauing and raging in as pittifull manner, as if her Ladie had beene quite dead. Which storming tempest, Madame Helena soone pacified, entreating her to vse silence, and helpe to put on her garments.

Hauing vnderstood by her, that no one knew of her being there, but such as brought her cloathes, and the poore peazant, attending there still to do her any seruice: shee became the better comforted,

entreating them by all meanes, that it might bee concealed from a∣ny further discouery, which was on eyther side, most faithfullie protested.

The poore Clowne holpe to beare downe his Lady vppon his backe, because the Ladder stood not conueniently enough for her descending, neither were her limbes plyable for her owne vse, by reason of their rifts and smarting. Ancilla following after, and be∣ing more respectiue of her Lady, then her owne security in descen∣ding, missing the step in the midst of the Ladder, fell downe to the ground, and quite brake her legge in the fall, the paine whereof was so greeuous to her, that she cried and roared extraordinarily, euen like a Lyon in the desert.

When the Clowne had set his Lady safe on a faire green banke, he returned to see what the waiting woman ayled, and finding her leg to be quite broken: he caried her also to the same banke, & there seated her by her Lady: who perceiuing what a mischance had hap¦ned, and she (from whom she expected her onely best helpe, to bee now in far greater necessity her selfe: shee lamented exceedingly, complaining on Fortunes cruel malice toward her, in thus heaping one misery vpon another, and neuer ceasing to torment her, especi∣ally now in the conclusion of all, and when shee thought all future perils to be past.

Now was the Sun vpon his setting, when the poore honest coun∣try-man, because darke night should not ouertake them, conducted the Lady home to his owne house: and gaining the assistance of his two brethren and wife, setting the waiting-woman in a Chaire, thi∣ther they brought her in like manner. And questionles, there wan∣ted no diligence and comfortable language, to pacifie the Ladyes continuall lamentations. The good wife, led the Lady into hir own poore lodging, where (such cates as they had to feede on) louingly she set before her: conueying her afterward into her owne bed, and taking such good order, that Ancilla was carried in the night time to Florence, to preuent all further ensuing danger, by reason of her legs breaking.

Madame Helena, to colour this misfortune of her owne: as also the great mishap of her woman: forged an artificiall and cunning tale, to giue some formall apparance of hir being in the Tower, per∣swading the poore simple Country people, that in a straunge acci∣dent of thunder and lightning, and by the illusions of wicked spi∣rits, all this aduenture hapned to her. Then Physitians were sent for; who, not without much anguish and affliction to the Ladie (by reason of her fleshes flaying off, with the Medicines and Emplay∣sters applyed to the body) was glad to suffer whatsoeuer they did, beside falling into a very dangerous Feauer; out of which she was

not recouered in a long while after, but continued in daily dispayre of her life; beside other accidents hapning in her time of Physicke, vtterly vnauoydable in such extreamities: and hardly had Ancilla her legge cured.

By this vnexpected pennance imposed on Madame Helena, she vtterly forgot her amorous friend; and (from thence forward) care∣fully kept her selfe from fond loues allurements, and such scornfull behauiour, wherein she was most disorderly faulty. And Reniero the Scholler, vnderstanding that Ancilla had broken her leg, which he reputed as a punishment sufficient for her, held himselfe satisfy∣ed, because neither the Mistresse nor her Maide, could now make a∣ny great boast, of his nights hard entertainment, and so concealed all matters else.

Thus a wanton-headed Lady, could finde no other subiect to worke her mocking folly on, but a learned Scholler, of whom shee made no more respect, then any other ordinary man. Neuer re∣membring, that such men are expert (I cannot say all, but the grea∣ter part of them) to helpe the frenzie of foolish Ladies, that must in∣ioy their loose desires, by Negromancy, and the Diuelles meanes. Let it therefore (faire Ladies) be my louing admonition to you, to detest all vnwomanly mocking and scorning, but more especiallie to Schollers.

Two neere dwelling Neighbours, the one beeing named Spineloccio Tauena, and the other Zeppa di Mino, frequenting each others company daily together; Spinelloccio Cuckolded his Friend and Neighbour. Which happening to the knowledge of Zeppa, he pre∣uailed so well with the Wife of Spinelloccio, that he being lockt vp in a Chest, he reuenged his wrong at that instant, so that neyther of them complained of his misfortune.

The Eight Nouell.

Wherein is approued, that he which offereth shame and disgrace to his Neighbour; may receiue the like iniury (if not in worse manner) by the same man.

[illustration]

GReeuous, and full of compassion, appeared the hard For∣tunes of Madame Helena to be, hauing much disconten∣ted, and (well-neere) wearied all the Ladies in hearing them recounted. But because they were very iustly inflicted vpon her, and according as (in equity) shee had deserued, they vvere the more moderate in their commisseration: howbeit, they reputed the Scholler not onely ouer-obstinate, but also too strict, rigorous and seuere. Wherefore, when Madame Pampinea had finished hir No∣uell, the Queene gaue command to Madame Fiammetta, that she should follow next with her discourse; whereto shee shewing obe∣dience, thus beganne.

Because it appeareth in my iudgement (faire Ladyes) that the Schollers cruelty hath much displeased you, making you more me∣lancholly then this time requireth: I holde it therefore very conue∣nient, that your contristed spirits should be chearfully reuiued, with matter more pleasing and delightfull. And therefore, I mean to re∣port a Nouell of a certaine man, who tooke an iniury done him, in much milder manner, and reuenged his wrong more moderately, then the furious incensed Scholler did. Whereby you may com∣prehend, that it is sufficient for any man, and so he ought to esteeme it, to serue another with the same sawce, which the offending party caused him first to taste of: without coueting any stricter reuenge, then agreeth with the quality of the iniury receiued.

Know then (Gracious assembly) that, as I haue heretofore heard, there liued not long since in Sienna, two young men, of honest pa∣rentage and equall condition, neither of the best, nor yet the mea∣nest calling in the City: the one being named Spinelloccio Tauena, and the other tearmed Zeppa di Mino, their houses Neighbouring together in the streete Camollia. Seldome the one walked abroade without the others Company, and their houses allowed equall wel∣come to them both; so that by outward demonstrations, & inward mutuall affection, as far as humane capacity had power to extend, they liued and loued like two Brethren, they both beeing wealthy, and married vnto two beautifull women.

It came to passe, that Spinelloccio, by often resorting to the house of Zeppa, as well in his absence, as when he abode at home; beganne to glance amorous looks on Zeppaes wife, and pursued his vnneigh∣bourly purpose in such sort: that hee being the stronger perswader, and she (belike) too credulous in beleeuing, or else ouer-feeble in resisting; from priuate imparlance, they fell to action; and conti∣nued their close fight a long while together, vnseene and vvithout suspition, no doubt to their equall ioy and contentment.

But, whether as a iust punishment, for breaking so louing a league of friendship and neighbour-hood, or rather a fatall infliction, euer∣more attending on the closest Cuckoldry, their felicity still continu∣ing in this kinde: it fortuned on a day, Zeppa abiding within doors, contrary to the knowledge of his wife, Spinelloccio came to enquire for him, and she answering (as she verily supposed) that he was gon abroad: vppe they went both together into the Hall, and no bodie being there to hinder what they intended, they fell to their wonted recreation without any feare, kissing and embracing as Louers vse to do.

Zeppa seeing all this, spake not one word, neither made any noise at all; but kept himselfe closely hidden, to obserue the yssue of this

amorous conflict. To be briefe, he saw Spinelloccio goe with his wife into the Chamber, and make the doore fast after them, where∣at he could haue beene angry, which he held to be no part of true wisedome. For he knew well enough, that to make an out crie in this case, or otherwise to reueale this kinde of iniury, it could no way make it lesse, but rather giue a greater addition of shame and scandall: he thought this no course for him to take; wiser conside∣rations entred his braine, to haue this wrong fully reuenged, yet with such a discreete and orderly carriage, as no neighbours know∣ledge should by any meanes apprehend it, or the least signe of dis∣content in himselfe blabbe it, because they were two daungerous euils.

Many notable courses wheeled about his conceit, euery one pro∣mising fairely, and ministring meanes of formall apparance, yet one (aboue the rest) wonne his absolute allowance, which he intended to prosecute as best he might. In which resolution, he kept still ve∣ry close, so long as Spinelloccio was with his Wife; but hee being gone, he went into the Chamber, where he found his wife, amen∣ding the forme of her head attyre, which Spinelloccio had put into a disordred fashion. Wife (quoth he) what art thou doing? Why? Do you not see Husband? answered she. Yes that I do wife, repli∣ed Zeppa, and something else happened to my sight, which I could wish that I had not seene. Rougher Language growing betweene them, of his auouching, and her as stout denying, with defending her cause ouer-weakely, against the manifest proofes both of eye and eare: at last she fell on her knees before him, weeping inces∣santly, and no excuses now auailing, she confest her long acquain∣tance with Spinelloccio, and most humbly entreated him to forgiue her. Vppon the which penitent confession and submission, Zeppa thus answered.

Wife, if inward contrition be answerable to thy outward seem∣ing sorrow, then I make no doubt, but faithfully thou dost acknow∣ledge thine owne euill dooing: for which, if thou expectest pardon of me; determine then to fulfill effectually, such a busines as I must enioyne, and thou performe. I command thee to tell Spinelloccio, that to morrow morning, about nine of the clocke, we being both abroad walking, he must finde some apt occasion to leaue my com∣pany, and then come hither to visit thee. When he is here, sodain∣ly will I returne home, and vpon thy hearing of my entraunce: to saue his owne credite, and thee from detection, thou shalt require him to enter this Chest, vntill such time as I am gone forth againe; which he doing, for both your safeties, so soon as he is in the chest, take the key and locke him vp fast. When thou hast effected this, then shall I acquaint thee with the rest remaining, which also must

be done by thee, without dread of the least harme to him or thee, because there is no malicious meaning in me, but such as (I am per∣swaded) thou canst not iustly mislike. The wife, to make some sa∣tisfaction for her offence committed, promised that she would per∣forme it, and so she did.

On the morrow morning, the houre of nine being come, when Zeppa and Spinelloccio were walking abroad together, Spinelloccio remembring his promise vnto his Mistresse, and the clocke telling him the appointed houre, hee saide to Zeppa. I am to dine this day with an especiall friend of mine, who I would be loath should tar∣ry for my comming; and therefore holde my departure excused. How now? answered Zeppa, the time for dinner is yet farre enough off, wherefore then should we part so soone? Yea but Zeppa, repli∣ed Spinelloccio, wee haue weighty matters to confer on before din∣ner, which will require three houres space at the least, and therefore it behoueth me to respect due time.

Spinelloccio being departed from Zeppa (who followed faire and softly after him) being come to the house, and kindly welcommed by the wife: they were no sooner gone vp the staires, and entering in at the Chamber doore; but the Woman heard her Husband cough, and also his comming vp the staires. Alas deare Spinelloc∣cio (quoth she) what shall we do? My Husband is comming vppe, and we shall be both taken tardie, step into this Chest, lye downe there and stirre not, till I haue sent him forth againe, which shall be within a very short while. Spinelloccio was not a little ioyfull for her good aduice; downe in the Chest lay he, and she lockt him in: by which time Zeppa was entred the Chamber. Where are you Wife? said he, (speaking so loud, as hee in the Chest might heare him) What, is it time to go to dinner? It will be anon Sir, answe∣red she, as yet it is ouerearly; but seeing you are come, the more hast shall be made, and euery thing will be ready quickly.

Zeppa, sitting downe vpon the Chest, wherein Spinelloccio lay not a little affrighted, speaking stil aloud, as formerly he did: Come hither Wife (quoth he) how shall we do for some good companie to dine with vs? Mine honest kinde neighbour Spinelloccio is not at home, because he dineth forth to day with a deare friend of his, by which meanes, his wife is left at home alone: giue her a call out at our Window, and desire her to come dine with vs: for we two can make no merry Musicke, except some more come to fill vp the con∣sort.

His Wife being very timorous, yet diligent to doe whatsoeuer he commanded, so preuailed with the Wife of Spinelloccio: that she came to them quickely, and so much the rather, because her Husband dined abroad. Shee being come vp into the Chamber,

Zeppa gaue her most kinde entertainment, taking her gently by the hand, and winking on his Wife, that she should betake her selfe to the kitchin, to see dinner speedily prepared, while he sat conuersing with his neighbour in the Chamber.

His wife being gone, he shut the doore after her; which the new∣come Neighbour perceyuing, she sayde. Our blessed Lady defend me. Zeppa, What is your meaning in this? Haue you caused me to come hither to this in tent? Is this the loue you beare to Spinelloc∣cio, and your professed loyalty in friendshippe? Zeppa, seating her downe on the Chest, wherein her Husband was inclosed, entrea∣ting her patience, thus began. Kinde and louing Neighbor, before you aduenture too farre in anger, vouchsafe to heare what I shall tell you.

I haue loued, and still doe loue, Spinelloccio as my brother, but yesterday (albeit he knoweth it not) I found, the honest trust I re∣posed in him, deserued no other, or better recompence, but euen to be bold with my wife, in the selfesame manner as I am, and as hee ought to do with none but you. Now, in regard of the loue which I beare him, I intend to be no otherwise reuenged on him, but in the same kinde as the offence was committed. He hath bin more then familiar with my wife, I must borrow the selfe-same courtesie of you, which in equity you cannot deny mee, weighing the wrong you haue sustained by my wife. Our iniuries are alike, in your Hus∣band to me, and in my wife to you: let then their punishment and ours be alike also; as they, so we; for in this case there can be no iu∣ster reuenge.

The Woman hearing this, and perceiuing the manifolde confir∣mations thereof, protested (on solemne oath) by Zeppa; hir beliefe grew setled, and thus she answered. My louing neighbor Zeppa, see∣ing this kinde of reuenge is (in meere iustice) imposed on mee, and ordained as a due scourge, as well to the breach of friendship and neighbour-hood, as abuse of his true and loyall wife: I am the more willing to consent: alwaies prouided, that it be no imbarrement of loue betweene your wife and mee, albeit I haue good reason to al∣ledge, that she began the quarrell first: and what I do is but to right my wrong, as any other woman of spirit would do: Afterwards, we may the more easily pardon one another. For breach of peace (answered Zeppa) between my wife and you, take my honest word for your warrant. Moreouer, in requitall of this fauour to mee, I will bestowe a deare and precious Iewell on you, excelling all the rest which you haue beside.

In deliuering these words, he sweetly kissed and embraced her, as she sat on the Chest wherein her husband lay: now, what they did else beside, in recompence of the wrong-receiued, I leaue to your

imagination, as rather deseruing silence, then immodest blabbing. Spinelloccio, being all this while in the Chest, hearing easily all the words which Zeppa had vttered, the answer of his wife, as also what Musicke they made ouer his head: you may guesse in what a case he was, his heart being ready to split with rage, and, but that hee stood in feare of Zeppa, he would haue railde and exclaimed on his wife, as thus hee lay shut vp in the Chest. But entering into better consideration, that so great an iniury was first begun by himselfe, & Zeppa did no more, then in reason and equity he might well do (ha∣uing euermore carried himselfe like a kinde neighbour and frend to∣wards him, without the least offer of distaste) he faithfully resolued, to be a firmer friend to Zeppa then formerly hee had bin, if it might be embraced and accepted on the other side.

Delights and pleasures, be they neuer so long in contenting and continuance, yet they come to a period and conclusion at last: So Zeppa, hauing ended his amorous combate, and ouer the head of his perfidious friend, thought himselfe sufficiently reuenged. But now, in consideration of a further promise made on the bargaine; Spinel∣loccioes wife challengeth the Iewel, then which kind of recompence, nothing can be more welcom to women. Heereupon, Zeppa calling for his owne wife, commanded her to open the Chest; which shee did, and he merrily smiling, saide. Well wife, you haue giuen mee a Cake insted of bread, and you shal lose nothing for your labour. So Spinelloccio comming forth of the Chest, it requireth a better witte then mine, to tell you, which of them stood most confounded vvith shame, either Spinelloccio seeing Zeppa, and knowing well enough what he had done: or the woman beholding her husband, who ea∣sily heard all their familiar conference, and the action thereupon so deseruedly performed.

See neighbour, is not this your dearest Iewell? Hauing kept it a∣while in my wiues custody; according to my promise, here I deliuer it you. Spinelloccio being glad of his deliuerance out of the Chest, albeit not a little ashamed of himselfe; without vsing many imper∣tinent words, saide. Zeppa, our wrongs are equally requited on each other, and therefore I allow thy former speeches to my Wife, that thou wast my friend, as I am the like to thee, and so I pray thee let vs still continue. For nothing else is now to bee diuided betweene vs, seeing we haue shared alike in our wiues, which none knowing but our selues, let it be as closely kept to our selues. Zeppa was wel plea∣sed with the motion, and so all foure dined louingly together, with∣out any variance or discontentment. And thence forward, each of the Women had two Husbands, as either Husband enioyed two Wiues, without further contention or debate.

Maestro Simone, an ydle-headed Doctor of Physicke, was throwne by Bruno and Buffalmaco, into a common Leystall of Filth: The Phy∣sitian fondly beleeuing, that (in the night time) he should hee made one of a new created Company, who vsually went to see vvonders at Corsica; and there in the Leystall they left him.

The Ninth Nouell.

Wherein is approued, that Titles of Honour, Learning, and Dignity, are not alwayes bestowne on the wisest men.

[illustration]

AFter that the Ladies had a while considered, on the com∣munication betweene the two Wiues of Sienna, and the falshood in friendship of their Husbands: the Queene, who was the last to recount her Nouell, without offering iniurie to Dioneus, began to speake thus.

The reward for a precedent wrong committed, which Zeppa re∣torted vpon Spinelloccio, was answerable to his desert, and no more then equity required, in which respect, I am of opinion, that such men ought not to be ouer-sharpely reproued, as do in iurie to him, who seeketh for it, and iustly should haue it, althogh Madam Pam∣pinea (not long since) auouched the contrary. Now, it euidently appeareth, that Spinelloccio well deserued what was done to him, and I purpose to speake of another, who needs would seeke after his owne disgrace. The rather to confirme my former speeches, that

they which beguile such wilfull foolish men; are not to bee blamed, but rather commended. And he vnto whom the shame was done, was a Physitian, which came from Bologna to Florence; and retur∣ned thither againe like vnto a Beast, notoriously baffulled and dis∣graced.

It is a matter well knowne to vs, and (almost) obserued day by day, that diuers of our Citizens, when they returne from their stu∣dying at Bologna: one becommeth an Aduocate, another a Physi∣tian, and a third a Notarie, with long & large gowns, some of Scar∣let, and hoods furred with Mineuer, beside diuers other great appa∣rances, succeeding effectually daily in their seuerall kinds. Among whom, there returned (not long since) thence, one Master Simon da Villa, more rich in possessions left him by his parents, then anie knowledge thereto obtained: yet cloathed in Scarlet, with his Mi∣niuer hood, and styled a Doctor of Physicke, which title hee onely bestowed on himselfe, and tooke a goodly house for his dwelling, in the street which wee commonly call La via del Cocomero. This Master Doctor Simon, being thus newly come thither, among o∣ther notable qualities in him, had one more especial then any of the rest, namely, to know the names and conditions of such persons, as daily passed by his doore, and what professions they were of, wher∣by any likelyhood might be gathered of needing his helpe, and be∣ing his patients, obseruing them all with very vigilant care.

But, among all the rest by him thus warily noted, he most obser∣ued two Painters, of whom we haue heeretofore twice discoursed, Bruno and Buffalmaco, who walked continually together, and were his neere dwelling neighbors. The matter which most of al he no∣ted in them, was; that they liued metrily, and with much lesse care, then any else in the Cittie beside, and verily they did so in deede. Wherefore, he demanded of diuers persons, who had good vnder∣standing of them both, of what estate and condition they vvere. And hearing by euery one, that they were but poore men & Pain∣ters: he greatly meruailed, how it could be possible for them, that they should liue so iocondly, and in such pouerty. It was related to him further beside, that they were men of a quicke and ingenious apprehension, whereby hee politikely imagined, that theyr poore condition could not so well maintaine them; without some cour∣ses else, albeit not publiquely knowne vnto men, yet redounding to their great commoditie and profite. In which regard, he grew exceeding desirous, by what meanes he might becom acquainted, and grow into familiarity with them both, or any of them, at the least: wherein (at the length) he preuailed, and Bruno proued to be the man.

Now Bruno plainly perceiuing (within a short while of this new

begun acquaintance) that the Physitian was a Logger-head, and meerely no better then a Gregorian Animall: he beganne to haue much good pastime with him, by telling him strange and incredi∣ble Tales, such as none but a Coxcombe would giue credit too; yet they delighted Doctor Dunce extraordinarily, and Brunoes famili∣arity was so highly pleasing to him, that he was a daily guest at din∣ner and supper with him, and hee was not meanly proud of enioy∣ing his company. One day, as they sate in familiar conference to∣gether, he told Bruno that he wondred not a little at him and Buf∣falmaco, they being both so poore people, yet liued far more ioui∣ally then Lords, and therefore desired to vnderstand, by vvhat se∣cret meanes they compassed such mirthful maintenance. Bruno, hearing the Doctors demaund, & perceiuing that it sauoured more of the foole, then any the very least taste of wisedome: smiled vnto himselfe, and determined to returne him such an answere, as might be fitting for his folly, whereupon, thus he replied.

Beleeue me Master Doctor, I would not impart to many people, what priuate helpes we haue for our maintenance: but yet I dare boldly acquaint you therewith, in regard you are one of our most intimate friends, and of such secrecie, as (I know) you will not re∣ueale it to any. True it is, that mine honest neighbor and my selfe, do leade our liues in such merry manner as you see, and better then all the world is aware of, for I cannot imagine you to bee so igno∣rant, but are certainly perswaded: that if we had no better means, then our poore manuall trade and profession; we might sit at home with bread and water, and be nothing so liuely spirited as wee are. Yet Sir, I would not haue you to conceiue, that wee do eyther rob or steale, or vse any other vnlawfull courses: onely we trauayle to Corsica, from whence we bring (without the least preiudice to anie other) all things we stand in need of, or whatsoeuer wee can desire. Thus do we maintaine our selues well and honestly, and liue in this mirthfull disposition.

Master Doctor hearing this Discourse, and beleeuing it constant∣ly, without any further instruction or intelligence: became posses∣sed with verie much admiration, and had the most earnest desire in the world, to know what this Trauailing to Corsica might meane: entreating Bruno with very great instances, to tell him what it was, and made many protestations neuer to disclose it to anie one. How now Master Doctor? answered Bruno, What a strange moti∣on do you make to mee? It is too great a secret, which you desire to know, yea, a matter of mine owne ruine, and an vtter expulsi∣on out of this Worlde, with condemnation into the mouth of Lucifer da San Gallo, if any man whatsoeuer should know it from me, wherefore I pray you to vrge it no more. O my deer and honest

neighbour Bruno (quoth the Doctor) assure thy selfe vpon my soul, that whatsoeuer thou reuealest to me, shall be vnder seale from all, but onely our selues. Fie, fie Master Doctor, answered Bruno, you are too pressing and importunate. So sitting smiling to himselfe, sha∣king his head, and beating his breast, as if hee were in some straunge distraction of minde, stamping with his feete, and beating his Fiste oftentimes on the Table, at last he started vppe, and spake in this manner.

Ah Master Doctor, the loue I beare to your capricious and rare∣ly circumcised experience, and likewise the confidence I repose in your scrutinous taciturnitie, are both of such mighty and preuailing power; as I cannot conceale any thing from you, which you couet to know. And therefore, if you wil sweare vnto me by the crosse of Monteson, that neuer (as you haue already faithfully promised) you will disclose a secret so admirable; I will relate it vnto you, and not otherwise. The Doctor sware, and sware againe, and then Bruuo thus began.

Know then my learned and iudicious Doctor, that it is not long time since, when there liued in this Citie of ours, a man very excel∣lent in the Art of Nigromancie, who named himselfe Michale Sco∣to, because he was a Scottishman borne, of many woorthy Gentle∣men (very few of them being now liuing) hee was much honoured and respected. When he grew desirous to depart from hence, vp∣on their earnest motion and entreaty; he left here two of his Schol∣lers behinde him, men of absolute skill and experience: giuing them especial charge and command, to do all possible seruices they could deuise, for those Gentlemen who had so highly honoured him. The two famous Schollers, were very helpefull to those Gentlemen, in diuers of their amorous occasions, and verie many other matters besides.

Not long after, they finding the Citie, and behauiour of the peo∣ple sufficiently pleasing to them; they resolued on their continu∣ance heere, entering into a league of loue and friendshippe with di∣uers, neuer regarding, whether they were Gentlemen, or no, or di∣stinguishing the poore from the rich: but only in being conforme to their complexions, sociable and fit for friendship.

They created a kinde Society, consisting of about fiue and twen∣ty men, who should meete together twice in a moneth, & in a place reputed conueuient for them: where being so assembled, euery man vttered his minde to those two Schollers, in such cases as they most desired, to haue wherwith they were all satisfied the self-same night. It came so to passe, that Buffalmaco and I, grew into acquaintance with those two worthy Schollers, and our priuate familiarity toge∣ther proued so prosperous, that we were admitted into the same So∣ciety,

and so haue euer since continued. Now Sir, I am to tell you matter deseruing admiration, & which (in very good iudgements) would seeme to exceed all beleefe.

For, at euery time when we were assembled together: you are not able to imagine, what sumptuous hangings of Tapistrie, did a∣dorne the Hall where we sate at meate, the Tables couered in such Royall manner, waited on by numberlesse Noble and goodly at∣tendants, both Women and Men, seruing readily, at each mans command of the company. The Basins, Ewers, Pots, Flaggons, & all the vessels else which stood before, and for the seruice of our diet, being composed onely of Gold and Siluer, and out of no worse did we both eate and drinke: the viands being very rare and dainty, a∣bounding in plenty and variety, according to the appetite of euerie person, as nothing could be wished for, but it was instantly obtai∣ned.

In good sadnesse Sir, I am not able to remember and tell you (within the compasse of a thousand yeares) what, and how manie seuerall kindes of Musicall Instruments, were continually played on before vs; what multiplicity of Waxe lights burned in all partes of the roomes; neither the excessiue store of rich Drugs, Marchpanes, Comfites, and rare Banquetting stuffe, consumed there at one Fea∣sting, wherein there wanted no bounty of the best and purest wines. Nor do I (Master Doctor) repute you so weakly witted, as to think, that in the time of our being thus assembled there, any of vs al were cloathed in such simple and meane Garments, as ordinarily are worne in the streets on mens bodies, or any so silly as the verie best you haue: No Sir, not any one man among vs, but appeared by his apparrell, equall to the greatest Emperour on the earth, his robe most sumptuously imbroidered with precious stones, Pearles, and Carbuncles, as all the world affoordeth not the like. But aboue all the rest, the delights and pleasures there, are beyond my capacity to expresse, or (indeede) any comparison: as namely, store of goodly and beautifull women, brought thither from all parts of the world; alwayes prouided, if men bee desirous of their company: but for your easier comprehension, I will make some briefe relation of them to you, according as I heard them there named.

There is the great Lady of Barbanicchia; the Queene of Baschia; the Wife to the great Soldane, the Empresse of Osbeccho; the Cian∣cianfera of Norniera; the Semistante of Berlinzona; and the Scalpe∣dra of Narsia. But why do I breake my braine, in numbering vp so many to you? All the Queenes of the world are there, euen so farre as to the Schinchimurra of Prester Iohn, that hath a horne in the midst of her posteriores, albeit not visible to euery eye.

Now I am further to tell you, that after we haue tasted a Cup of

precious Wine, fed on a few delicate Comfits, and danced a dance or two to the rare Musicke: euery one taketh a Lady by the hand, of whom he pleaseth to make his election, and she conducteth him to her Chamber, in very graue and gracious manner. Concerning the Chambers there, each of them resembleth a Paradise to looke on, they are so faire and goodly; and no lesse odorifferous in smell, then the sweetest perfumes in your Apothecaries shoppes, or the rare compounds of Spices, when they are beaten in an open Mor∣ter. And as for the Beds, they are infinitely richer, then the verie costliest belonging to the Duke of Venice: yet (in such) each man is appointed to take his rest, the Musicke of rare Cymbals lasting all night long, much better to be by you considered, then in my rude eloquence expressed.

But of all those rich and sumptuous Beds (if pride of mine owne opinion do not deceiue me) them two prouided for Buffalmaco and me, had hardly any equall: he hauing the Queene of France as his Lady and Mistresse, and I, the renowned Queene of England, the onely two choise beauties of the whole World, and wee appeared so pleasing in their eyes, as they would haue refused the greatest Monarkes on the earth, rather then to bee reiected by vs. Now therefore, you may easily consider with your selfe, what great rea∣son we haue to liue more merrily, then any other men can doe: in regard we enioy the gracious fauour of two such Royall Queenes, receyuing also from them (whensoeuer wee please to commaund them) a thousand or two thousand Florines at the least, which are both truly and duly sent vs. Enioying thus the benefit of this high happinesse, we that are companions of this Society, do tearme it in our vulgar Language, The Pyrats voyage to Corsica. Because, as Rouers or Pyrats robbe and take away the goodes of such as they meete withall, euen so do we: only there remaineth this difference betweene vs, that they neuer restore what they haue taken: which we do immediately afterward, whether it be required or no. And thus Master Doctor, as to my most endeered friend, I haue now re∣uealed the meaning of sayling to Corsica, after the manner of our priuate Pyracie, and how important the close retention of the voi∣age is, you are best able your selfe to iudge: In which regarde, re∣member your Oathes and faithfull promises, or else I am vndone for euer.

Our worthy wise Doctor, whose best skill scarsely extended so farre, as to cure the itch in Children; gaue such sound beleefe to the relation of Bruno, as any man could doe, to the most certaine truth of life or death: hauing his desire immeasurably enflamed, to bee made a member of this straunge Societie, which hee more

coueted, then any thing in the world beside, accounting it a felicity farre beyond all other.

Whereupon he answered Bruno, that it was no great matter of meruaile, if he liued so merily as he did, hauing such a singular sup∣ply, to auoide all necessities whatsoeuer: and very hardly could he refraine from immediate request, to be accepted into the company. But yet he thought fit to deferre it further, vntill he had made Bru∣no more beholding to him, by friendly entertainments and other courtesies, when he might (with better hope) be bold to moue the motion.

Well may you conceiue, that nothing more hammerd in the Do∣ctors head, then this rare voyage to Corsica, and Bruno was his dai∣ly guest at dinner and supper, with such extraordinary apparances of kindnesse and courtesie, as if the Physitian could not liue, except he had the company of Bruno. Who seeing himselfe to bee so lo∣uingly respected, and hating ingratitude, for fauours so abundant∣ly heaped on him: hee painted the whole story of Lent about his Hall, and an Agnus Dei fairely gilt, on the portall of his Chamber, as also a goodly Vrinall on his street doore, to the end, that such as had neede of his counsell, might know where so iudicious a Doctour dwelt. In a Gallery likewise by his Garden, he painted the furious Battaile betweene the Rats and Cats, which did (not a little) de∣light Master Doctor.

Moreouer, at such times as Bruno had not supt with our Physiti∣an, he would bee sure to tell him on the morrow, that the night pas∣sed, he had bin with the Company which he did wot of. And there (quoth he) the Queene of England hauing somewhat offended mee, I commanded, that the Gomedra, belonging to the Grand Cham of Tartaria, should be brought me, and instantly shee was. What may be the meaning of Gomedrabe? saide the Doctor, I vnderstand not those difficult names. I beleeue you Sir, answered Bruno, nor do I need to maruaile thereat: and yet I haue heard Porcograsso speake, and also Vannacenna, and both vnexperienced in our Lan∣guage. You would say (replyed the Doctor) Hippocrates and Aui∣cenna, who were two admirable Physitians. It may be so (said Bru∣no) & as hardly do I vnderstand your names, as you mine: but Gome¦dra, in the Grand Chams language, signifies Empresse in ours. But had you once seene her Sir, she would make you forget all Physicall obseruations, your arguments, receits and medicines, onely to be in her heauenly presence, which words he vsed (perceiuing his forward longing) to enflame him the more. Not long after, as the doctor was holding the candle to Bruno, at the perfecting the bloody Bat••ayle of the Cattes and Rattes, because he could neuer bee wearied in his Companie, and therefore was the more willing, to vndergoe the

office of the Candle-holder: he resolued to acquaint him with his minde, and being all alone by themselues, thus be began.

Bruno, as heauen knoweth, there is not this day any creature li∣uing, for whom I would gladly do more, then for thee, and the ve∣ry least word of thy mouth, hath power to commaund mee to goe bare-footed, euen from hence so farre as to Peretola, and account my labour well employed for thy sake: wherefore, neuer wonder at my continuall kindnesse towards thee, vsing thee as my Dome∣sticke companion, and embracing thee as my bosome friend, and therefore I am the bolder in moouing one request vnto thee. As thou well knowest, it is no long while since, when thou diddest ac∣quaint me with the behauiour of the Corsicane Rouing Company, to be one in so rare and excellent a Society, such hath bin my ear∣nest longing euer since, as day nor night haue I enioyed anie rest, but should thinke my felicity beyond all compare, if I could be en∣tertained in fellowship among you.

Nor is this desire of mine but vpon great occasion, as thou thy selfe shalt perceiue, if I proue accepted into your Societie, and let me then be made a mocking stocke for euer, if I cause not to come thither, one of the most delicate young women, that euer anie eye beheld, and which I my selfe saw (not aboue a yeare since) at Caca∣uinciglia, on whom I bestowed my intirest affection, and (by the best Vrinall that euer I gazed on) would haue giuen her tenne faire Bologninaes, to yeeld the matter I moued to her, which yet I could not (by any meanes) compasse. Therefore, with all the flowing fa∣culties of my soule I entreate thee, and all the very vttermost of my all indeede; to instruct me in those wayes and meanes, whereby I may hope to be a member of you. Which if thou dooest accom∣plish for me, and I may finde it effectually performed: I shall not onely be thy true and loyall friend for euer, but will honour thee beside, beyond all men liuing.

I know thee to bee a man of iudgement, deepely informed in all well-grounded experience: thou seest what a propper, portly, and comely man I am, how fitly my legges are answerable to my body, my lookes amiable, louely, and of Rosie colour: beside I am a Do∣ctor of Physicke, of which profession (being only most expedient) I thinke you haue not one in your Society. I haue many commen∣dable qualities in me, as, playing on diuers instruments, exquisite in singing, and composing rare ditties, whereof I will instantly sing thee one. And so he began to sing.

Bruno was swolne so bigge with desire of laughter, that hee had scarsely any power to refraine from it: neuerthelesse, he made the best meanes he could deuise: and the Song being ended, the Physi∣tion saide. How now Bruno? What is thine opinion of my sing∣ing?

Beleeue me Sir, replyed Bruno, the Vialles of Sagginali, will loose their very best times, in contending against you, so miriliffici∣ally are the sweet accents of your voice heard. I tell thee truly Bruno (answered Master Doctor) thou couldst not by any possibility haue beleeued it, if thou hadst not heard it. In good sadnes Sir (said Bru∣no) you speake most truly. I could (quoth the Doctor) sing thee in∣finite more beside, but at his time I must forbeare them. Let mee then further informe thee Bruno, that beside the compleat perfecti∣ons thou seest in me, my father was a Gentleman, althogh he dwelt in a poore Country village, and by my mothers side, I am deriued from them of Vallecchio. Moreouer, as I haue formerly shewn thee, I haue a goodly Library of Bookes, yea, and so faire and costly gar∣ments, as few Physitians in Florence haue the like. I protest to thee vpon my faith, I haue one gowne, which cost me (in readie money) almost an hundred poundes in Bagattinoes, and it is not yet aboue ten yeares old. Wherefore let me preuaile with thee, good Bruno, to worke so with the rest of thy friends, that I may bee one of your singular Society; and, by the honest trust thou reposest in mee, bee boldly sick whensoeuer thou wilt, my paines and Physicke shall be freely thine, without the payment of one single peny. Bruno hea∣ring his importunate words, and knowing him (as all men else did beside) to be a man of more words then wit, saide. Master Doctor, snuffe the candle I pray you, and lend me a little more light with it hitherward, vntil I haue finished the tailes of these Rats, and then I wil answer you.

When the Rats tailes were fully finished, Bruno declaring by out∣ward behauiour, that he greatly distasted the matter mooued, thus answered. Worthy Master Doctor, the courtesies you haue alrea∣dy extended towards me, and the bountifull fauours promised be∣side, I know to be exceeding great, and farre beyond the compasse of any merit in me. But concerning your request, albeit in respect of your admired braine and Wisedome, it is of little or no mo∣ment at all; yet it appeareth ouer-mighty to mee, and there is not any man now liuing in the world, that hath the like Authoritie o∣uer me, and can more commaund me, then you (with one poore syllable) easily may doe: as well in regarde of my Loue and Du∣tie, as also your singular and sententious speeches, able not onelie to make me breake a sound and setled resolution, but (almost) to moue Mountaines out of their places, and the more I am in your Learned company, so much the faster am I lincked vnto you, in immooueable affection, so farre am I in loue with your admirable qualities. And had I no other reason, to affect you in such en∣deared manner, as I doe; yet because you are enamoured of

so rare a beauty, as you haue already related to me, it onely were a motiue sufficient to compell me. But indeed I must need tell you, that I haue not so much power in this case, as you (perhaps) do ima∣gine, which barreth me from such forward readines, as otherwise needed not to be vrged. Neuerthelesse, hauing so solemnly ingaged your faith to me, and no way misdoubting your faithfull secrecy, I shall instruct you in some meanes to be obserued; and it appeareth plainly to me, that being furnished with such plenty of Bookes, as you are, and other rich endowments, as you haue before rehersed, you cannot but attaine to the full period of your longing desire.

Speake boldly thy minde Bruno, answered the Doctour: for, I perceiue thou hast no perfect knowledge of me as yet, neither what an especiall gift I haue of secrecy. Messer Gasparino da Salicete, when he was Iudge and Potestat ouer the people of Forlini, made choise of mee (among infinite of his dearest friends) to acquaint with a se∣cret of no meane moment. And such a faithfull Secretary he found me, as I was the onely man, that knew his mariage with Bergamino; why then should any distrust be made of me? If it be so as you say Sir (answered Bruno) your credit is the sounder, and I dare the bet∣ter aduenture on your fidelity: the meanes then which you are to worke by, I shall now direct you in.

We haue alwayes in this noble Society of ours, a Captaine, and two Counsellors, which are changed at euery six months end. And now at Christmas next (so neere drawing on) Buffalmaco shal be e∣lected Captaine, and my selfe one of the Counsellers, for so it is al∣ready agreed on, and orderly set downe. Now, he that is Captain, may doe much more then any other can, and appoint matters as himselfe pleaseth, Wherefore I thinke it very expedient, that so soone as possibly you may, you procure acquaintance with Buffal∣maco, entreating him with all respectiue courtesie. Hee is a man, who when he perceyueth you to be so wonderfully Wise and dis∣creete, he will be immediatly in loue with you: so, when you haue your best senses about you, and your richest wearing Garments on (alwayes remembred, that your acquaintance first be fully con∣firmed) then neuer feare to vrge your request, for he can haue no power at all to denie you; because I haue already spoken of you to him, and find him to stand affected vnto you verie intirely: thus when you haue begunne the businesse, leaue me to deale with him in the rest.

Now trust me kinde friend Bruno, replyed the Physitian, I like your aduice exceeding well. For, if hee be a man, that taketh de∣light to conuerse with men of skill and iudgement, and you haue made the way for his knowing me: he wil him thirst, and long to follow after mee, to vnderstand the incredible eloquence flowing

from me, and the rare composition of my Musicall Ditties, out of which he may learne no meane wisedome. When the matter was thus agreed on betweene them, Bruno departed thence, & acquain∣ted Buffalmaco with euerie circumstance: which made him thinke euerie day a yeare, vntill he might ioyne in the fooling of Mayster Doctour, according to his owne fancie. Who beeing also as desirous on the other side, to make one in the Corsicane Voyage; could take no manner of rest either by day or night, till he was lin∣ked in friendship with Buffalmaco, which very quickely after hee compassed.

For now there wanted no costly dinners and suppers, with al de∣licates could be deuised, for the entertainement of Buffalmaco and Bruno; who, like Guests very easie to be inuited, where rich wines and good cheare are neuer wanting) needed little sending for, be-because his house was as familiar to them, as their owne. In the end, when the Physitian espyed an opportunitie apt for the pur∣pose, he made the same request to Buffalmaco, as formerly hee had done to Bruno. Whereat Buffalmaco, sodainly starting, and loo∣king frowningly on Bruno, as if he were extraordinarily incensed a∣gainst him: clapping his hand furiously on the Table, he sayde. I sweare by the great God of Pasignano, that I can hardly refrayne from giuing thee such a blow on the face, as should make thy Nose to fall at thy heeles: vile Traitor as thou art: for none beside thy selfe, could discouer so rare and excellent a secret vnto this famous Physitian. The Doctour, vvith verie plausible and pleasing tearmes, excused the matter verie artificially; protesting, that an∣other had reuealed it vnto him: and after many wise circumstan∣tiall Allegations, at length hee preuailed so farre, that Buffalmaco was pacified; who afterwardes turning in kinde manner, thus hee beganne.

Master Doctour, you haue liued both at Bologna, and heere in these partes with vs, hauing (no doubt) sufficiently vnderstoode, what it is to carry a close mouth, I meane the true Charracter of ta∣citurnitie. Questionlesse, you neuer learned the A. B. C. as now foolish Ideots do, blabbing their lessons all about the towne, which is much better apprehended by rumination; and surely (if I be not much deceyued) your Natiuity happened on a Sonday morning, Sol being at that time, Lord of the ascendent, ioyned with Mer∣curie in a fierie Triplicitie. By such conference as I haue had with Bruno, I conceyued (as he himselfe also did) that you were verie singular in Physicke onely: but it seemeth, your Studies reached a higher straine, for you haue learned, and know verie skilfullie, how to steale mens hearts from them, yea, to bereaue them of their verie soules, which I perceyue that you can farre better doe,

then any man else liuing to my knowledge, only by your wise, wit∣ty, iudicious, and more then meere Mercurian eloquence, such as I neuer heard before.

The Physitian interrupting him bashfully, turned himselfe vnto Bruno, saying. Did not I tell thee this before? Obserue what a no∣table thing it is, to speake well, and to frequent the company of the Wise. A thousand other, meerely blockes and dullardes by Na∣ture, could neuer so soone comprehend all the particularities of my knowledge, as this honest and apprehensiue man hath done. Thou didst not search into it halfe so soone, nor (indeed) did I expresse a quarter of my ingenuity to thee, as (since his comming) hath pro∣digally flowne from me.

Well do I remember thy words, that Buffalmaco delighted to be among men of Wisedome: and haue I not now fitted him vnto his owne desire? How thinkest thou Bruno? The best (quoth Bruno) that any man liuing in the World could do. Ah worthy Buffalma∣co, answered the Physitian: What wouldst thou then haue sayde, if thou hadst seene me at Bologna, where there was neyther great nor small, Doctor nor Scholler, but thought themselues happy by be∣ing in my company? If I ought any debts, I discharged them with my very wittie words: and whensoeuer I spake, I could set them al on a hearty laughter, so much pleasure they tooke in hearing mee. And when I departed thence, no men in the world could bee more sorrowfull then they, as desiring nothing more then my remayning among them; which they expressed so apparantly, that they made humble suite and intercession to me, to bee cheefe Reader of the Physicke-Lecture, to all the Schollers studying our profession. But I could not be so perswaded, because my minde was wholly addi∣cted hither, to enioy those Goods, Landes, and Inheritances, be∣longing lineally to them of our house, and accordingly I did per∣forme it.

How now Buffalmaco (quoth Bruno) what is thine opinion now? Thou wouldst not beleeue me when I told thee, that there is not a Doctor in all these parts, more skilfull in distinguishing the Vrine of an Asse, from any other, then this most expert and singular man: and I dare boldly maintaine it, that his fellow is not to bee found, from hence to the very gates of Paris. Go then, and doe the vtter∣most endeauour that thou canst, to grant the request which he hath made.

Beleeue me Buffalmaco, saide the Doctor, Bruno hath spoken no∣thing but truth, for I am scarsely knowne heere in this City, where (for the most part) they are all grosse-wit••ed people, rather then a∣ny iot iudicious: but I would thou hadst seene me among the Do∣ctors, in manner as I was wont to be. Introth Sir, replyed Buffal∣maco,

you are much more Learned then euer I imagined, in which respect, speaking vnto you as it becommeth me, to a man so excel∣lent in wit and vnderstanding: I dare assure you, that (without any faile) I wil procure you to be one of our Company.

After this promise thus made, the good chea••e, fauors and kind∣nesses done by the Doctor to them, was beyond the compasse of all relation: whereof they made no more then a meere mockery, flou∣ting him to his face, and yet his Wisedome could not discerne it. Moreouer, they promised, that they would giue him to Wife, the faire Countesse di Ciuillari, who was the onely goodliest creature to be found in the whole Culattario of humane generation. The Doctor demanded, what Countesse that was? Oh Sir, answered Buffalmaco, she is a great Lady, one worthy to haue issue by; and few houses are there in the world, where she hath not some iurisdi∣ction and command: so that not meane people onely, but euen the greatest Lords, at the sound of her Trumpets, do very gladlie pay her tribute. And I dare boldly affirme, that whensoeuer shee wal∣keth to any place, she yeeldeth a hot and sensible sauour, albeit she keepeth most of all close. Yet once euery night, shee duely obser∣ueth it (as a Custome) to passe from her owne house, to bathe her feete in the Riuer of Arno, and take a little of the sweeter Ayre: albeit her continuall residencie, is within the Kingdome of Late∣rino.

She seldome walketh abroad, but goeth with her attending Offi∣cers about her, who (for more demonstration of her greatnesse) do carry the Rod and plummet of Lead. Store of her Lords and Ba∣rons are euery where to be seene; as the Tamagnino della porta, Don Meta di Sirropa; Manico di Scopa; Signior Squacchera, and others beside, who are (as I suppose) oftentimes your daily visitants, when of necessity they must be remembred. All our care and courtesie shall extend so farre (if we doe not faile in our enterprize) to leaue you in the armes of so Maiestick a Ladie, quite forgetting hir of Ca∣cauinciglia.

The Physitian, who was borne and brought vp at Bologna, and therefore vnderstoode not these Florentine tearmes: became fully contented to enioy the Ladie; and, within some few dayes follow∣ing, the Painters brought him tydings, that they had prepared the way for his entertainment into the Societie of Rouers. The day being come, when the supposed assembly was to be made the night following: the Physitian inuited them both to dinner; when he de∣manding, what prouision he shold make for his entrance into their company, Buffalmaco returned him this answer, whereto hee gaue very heedfull attention.

Master Doctor, you must be first of all, strongly armed with re∣solution and confidence: for, if you be not, you may not only re∣ceyue hindrance, but also do vs great harme beside: and now you shall heare, in what manner, and how you are to be bold and con∣stant. You must procure the meanes, this instant night, when all the people are in their soundest sleepe, to stand vpon one of those high exalted Tombs or Monuments, which are in the Churchyard of Santa Maria Nouella, with the very fairest gowne you haue a∣bout you, because you may appeare in the more honorable conditi∣on, before the assembly seated together, and likewise to make good our speeches already deliuered of you, concerning your qualitie & profession: that the Countesse, perceyuing you to bee a woorthie Gentleman, may haue you first honoured with the Bathe, and af∣terward Knighted at her owne cost and charge. But you must con∣tinue stil vpon the Tombe (dreadlesse of nightly apparitions & vi∣sions) vntill such time as we send for you.

And for your better information in euery particulare; a Beast, blacke and horned, but of no great stature, will come to fetch you: perhaps he will vse some gastly noises, straunge leapes, and loftie trickes, onely to terrifie and affright you: but when he perceiueth that he cannot daunt you, hee will gently come neere you, which when he hath done, you may descend from off the Tombe; and, without naming or thinking on God, or any of his Saintes, mount boldly on his backe, for he will stand ready to receiue you. Being so seated, crosse your armes ouer your brest, without presuming to touch or handle the Beast, for he will carry you thence softly, and so bring you along to the company. But if in all this time of your trauaile, you call on heauen, any Saint, or bee possessed with the least thought of feare: I must plainely tell you, that either hee will cast you dangerously, or throw you into some noysom place. And therefore, if you know your selfe, not to be of a constant courage, and sprightly bold, to vndertake such an aduenture as this: neuer presume any further, because you may doe vs a great deale of in∣iurie, without any gaine or benefite to your selfe, but rather such wrong, as we would be very sorry should happen happen vnto so deere a Friend.

Alas honest Buffalmaco, answered the Physitian, thou art not halfe acquainted with me as yet: because I walke with gloues vpon my hands, and in a long Gowne, thou perhappes doest imagine mee a faint-hearted fellow. If thou didst know, what I haue heeretofore done at Bologna in the night time, when I and my Consorts went to visite pretty wenches, thou wouldst wonder at my couragious attempts. As I am a Gentleman, one night, we met with a young Bona Roba, a paltry greene-sicknesse baggage, scarsely aboue a Cu∣bite

in height, & because she refused to go with vs willingly, I gaue her a kicke on the bum, and spurnde her more then a Crosse-bowe shoote in distance from me, and made her walke with vs whether she would, or no. Another time I remember, when hauing no o∣ther company but my boy, I went thorow the Churchyard of the Fryars Minors, after the sounding of Aue Maria: a woman hadde beene buried there the very same day, and yet I was not a iotte af∣fraid.

Wherefore, neuer be distrustfull of mee, but resoluedly builde vpon my courage. And in regard of my more honourable enter∣tainment, I will then weare my Scarlet Gowne and Hood, wherein I receyued my graduation; and then do both of you obserue, what a reioycing will be among the whole company, at the entertaining of such as a man as I am, enough to create me Captaine immediat∣ly. You shall perceiue also how the case will go, after I haue beene there but a while, in regard that the Countesse (hauing as yet neuer seene me) is so deepely enamored of mee: she cannot choose but bestow the Bathe and Knight-hood on me, which shee shall haue the more honour of, in regard I am well able to maintaine it, there∣fore referre all the rest to mee, and neuer misdoubt your iniurie or mine.

Spoken like a Gallant, replyed Buffalmaco, and I feare not now, but we shall winne credite by your company. But be carefull I pray you, that you make not a mockery of vs, and come not at all, or fayle to be there, when the Beast shall be sent for you; I speake it the rather, because it is cold weather, and you Gentlemen Physi∣tians can hardly endure it. You are carefull of mee (quoth the Do∣ctor) and I thanke you for it, but I applaud my faire Starres, I am none of your nice or easie-frozen fellowes, because cold weather is very familiar to me. I dare assure you, when I arise in the night time for that naturall office whereto all men are subiect, I weare no war∣mer defence, then my thin wastcoat ouer my shirt, and finde it suffi∣cient for the coldest weather at any time.

When Bruno and Buffalmaco had taken their leaue, the Physiti∣an, so soone as night drew neere, vsed many apt excuses to his wife, stealing forth his Scarlet Gowne and Hood vnseene of any, where∣with being clothed: at the time appointed, he got vpon one of the Marble Tombes, staying there (quaking with cold) awaiting when the Beast should come. Buffalmaco, being a lusty tall man of per∣son, had got an vgly masking suite, such as are made vse of in Tra∣gedies and Playes, the out-side being of black shagged haire, wher∣with being cloathed, he seemed like a strange deformed Beare, and a Diuels vizard ouer his face, with two gastly horrible hornes, and thus disguised, Bruno following him, they went to behold the issue

of the businesse, so farre as the new Market place, closely adioining to Santa Maria Nouella.

Hauing espyed Master Doctor vppon the Tombe, Buffalmaco in his mishapen habite, began to bound, leape, and carriere, snuffling and blowing in mad and raging manner: which when the Physiti∣an saw, his haire stood on end, he quaked and trembled, as being more fearfull then a Woman, wishing himselfe at home againe in his house, rather then to behold a sight so dreadfull. But because he was come forth, and had such an earnest desire, to see the wonders related to him; he made himselfe so coragious as possibly he could, and bare all out in formall manner. After that Buffalmaco had (an indifferent while) plaide his horse-trickes, ramping and stamping somewhat strangely: seeming as become of much milder temper, he went neere to the Tomb whereon the Physitian stood, and there appeared to stay contentedly.

Master Doctor, trembling and quaking still extreamely, was so farre dismayed, as he knew not what was best to be done, either to mount on the beasts backe, or not to mount at all. In the end, thin∣king no harme could happen to him, if he were once mounted, with the second feare, hee expelled the former, and descending downe softly from the Tombe, mounted on the beast, saying out a lowde: God, Saint Dominicke, and my good Angell helpe to defend mee. Seating himselfe so well as he could, but trembling still exceeding∣ly; he crossed his armes ouer his stomacke, according to the Lesson giuen him.

Then did Buffalmaco shape his course in milde manner, toward Santa Maria della Scala, and groping to finde his way in the darke, went on so farre as the Sisters of Ripole, commonly called the Vir∣gin Sanctuary. Not farre off from thence, were diuers trenches & ditches, wherein such men as are imployed in necessary night-ser∣uices, vsed to empty the Countesse di Cimillari, and afterward im∣ployed it for manuring Husbandmens grounds. Buffalmaco, being come neere one of them, he stayed to breath himselfe awhile, and then catching fast hold on one of the Doctours feete, raysed him somewhat higher on his back, for the easier discharging of his bur∣then, and so pitched him (with his head forwardes) into the Lay∣stall.

Then began he to make a dreadful kinde of noise, stamping and trampling with his feete, passing backe againe to Santa Maria della Scala, and to Prato d'Ognissanti, where hee met with Bruno, who was constrained to forsake him, because he could not refraine from lowde Laughter, then both together went backe once more, to see how the Physitian would behaue himselfe, being so sweetely em∣brued.

Master Doctor, seeing himselfe to ben in such an abhominable stinking place, laboured with all his vtmost endeuou••, to get himself released thence: but the more he contended and stroue or getting forth, he plunged himselfe the further in, being most pitifully my∣red from head to foot▪ sighing and sorrowing extraordinarily, be∣cause much of the foule water ent••ed in at his mouth. In the end, being forced to leaue his hood behinde him, scr••mbling both with his hands and feet, he got landing out of his stinking Labyrinth, & hauing no other means, home he returned to his own house, where knocking at the doore, he was at length admitted entrance. The doore being scarse made fast againe after his letting in, Buffalmaco and Bruno were there arriued, listning how M. Doctor should bee welcomd home by his angry wife: who scolding and railing at him with wonderfull impatience, gaue him most hard and bitter spee∣ches, terming him the vilest man liuing.

Where haue you bin Sir? quoth she. Are you becom a night-walker after other Women? And could no worse garments serue your turne, but your Doctors gown of Scarlet? Am I to suffer this behauiour? Or am not I sufficient to content you, but you must be longing after change? I would thou hadst bin stifled in that foule filth, where thy fouler life did iustly cast thee. Behold goodly Ma∣ster Doctor of the Leystall, who being maried to an honest woman must yet go abroad in the night time, insatiatly lusting after whores and harlots. With these and the like intemperate speeches, she cea∣sed not to afflict and torment him, till the night was almost spent, and the Doctor brought into a sweeter sauour.

The next morning, Bruno and Buffalmaco, hauing colourd their bodyes with a strange kinde of painting, resembling blisters, swel∣lings, and bruises, as if they had bin extreamly beaten; came to the Physitians house, finding him to be newly vp, al the house yet smel∣ling of his foule sauour (although it had bin very well perfumed) and being admitted to him in the Garden, hee welcommed them with the mornings salutations. But Bruno and Buffalmaco (being o∣therwise prouided for him) deliuering stearne and angry lookes, stamping and chafing, Bruno thus replyed.

Neuer speake so faire and flattering to vs, for we are moued be∣yond all compasse of patience. All misfortunes in the worlde fall vpon you, and an euill death may you dye, like the most false and perfidious Traitor liuing on the earth. We must beate our braines, and moue all our most endeared friends, onely for your honor and aduancement: while wee were well neere starued to death in the cold like Dogs, and, by your breach of promise, haue bin this night so extreamly beaten, as if (like Asses) we should haue beene driuen to Rome.

But that which is most greeuous of all, is danger of excluding out of the Society, where wee tooke good order for your admit∣tance, and for your most honourable entertainment. If you wil not credit vs, behold our bodies, and let your owne eyes be witnesses, in what cruell manner we haue bin beaten. So taking him aside vn∣der the Gallery, where they might not be discouered by ouermuch light, they opened their bosomes, shewed him their painted bo∣dies, and sodainly closed them vp againe.

The Physitian laboured to excuse himselfe, declaring his misfor∣tunes at large, and into what a filthy place he was throwne. It ma∣keth no matter (answered Buffalmaco) I would you had bin thro∣wen from off the Bridge into Arno, where you might haue beene recommended to the Diuell, and all his Saints. Did not I tell you so much before. In good sadnesse (quoth the Doctor) I neyther commended my selfe to God, nor any of his Saints. How? sayde Buffalmaco, I am sure you will maintaine an vntrueth, you vsed a kinde of recommendation: for our messenger told vs, that you tal∣ked of God, S. Dominicke, and your good Angell, whom you desi∣red to assist you, being so affrighted with feare, that you trembled like a leafe vpon a tree, not knowing indeede where you were. Thus haue you vnfaithfully dealt with vs, as neuer any man shall doe the like againe, in seeking honour, and losing it through your own neg∣ligence.

Master Doctor humbly entreated pardon, and that they would not reuile him any more, labouring to appease them by the best words he could vse, as fearing least they should publish this great disgrace of him. And whereas (before) he gaue them gracious wel∣comes; now he redoubled them with farre greater courtesies, fea∣sting them daily at his own table, and euermore delighting in their company. Thus (as you haue heard) two poore Painters of Flo∣rence, taught Master Doctor better Wit, then all the Learned at Bologna.

A Cicilian Courtezane, named Madame Biancafiore, by her craftie wit and policie, deceiued a young Merchant, called Salabetto, of all the money he had taken for his Wares at Palermo. Afterward, he making shew of comming hither againe, with farre richer Mer∣chandises then hee brought before: made the meanes to borrow a great summe of Money of her, leauing her so base a pawne, as well requited her for her former cozenage.

The Tenth Nouell.

Whereby appeareth, that such as meet with cunning Harlots, and suf∣fer themselues to be deceiued by them: must sharpen their Wits, to make them requitall in the selfesame kinde.

[illustration]

NEedlesse it were to question, whether the Nouell related by the Queene, in diuers passages thereof, mooued the Ladies to hearty laughter, and likewise to compassionate sighes and teares; as pittying Madame Helena in her hard misfor∣tune, and yet applauding the Scholler for his iust reuenge. But the discourse being ended, Dioneus, who knew it was his Office to be the last speaker euery day, after silence was commanded, he be∣gan in this manner.

Worthy Ladies, it is a matter very manifest, that deceits do ap∣peare so much the more pleasing, when (by the selfe-same meanes)

the subtle deceyuer is artificially deceiued. In which respect, though you all haue reported very singular deceits: yet I meane to tel you one, that may proue as pleasing to you, as any of your owne. And so much the rather, because the woman deceiued, was a great and cunning Mistris in beguiling others; equalling (if not excelling) any of your former beguilers.

It hath bene obserued heretofore, and (happily) at this very day it is as frequent, that in all Cities and Townes vpon the Sea-coasts, hauing Ports for the benefit and venting Merchandises; Merchants vse to bring their wealthy laden Vessels thither. And when they vnlade any Ship of great fraught, there are prepared Store-houses, which in many places are called Magazines or Doganaes, at the charge of the Communalty, or Lord of the Towne or City, for the vse whereof, they receiue yearly gain and benefit. Into those ware-houses, they deliuer (vnder writing, and to the owners of them in e∣speciall charge) all their goods and merchandises, of what price or valew soeuer they are.

Such as be the Owners of these Magazines, when the Wares are thus stored vppe in them, doe safely locke them vp there with their keyes, hauing first registred downe truly all the goods, in the Regi∣ster belonging to the Custome-house, that the Merchant may haue a iust account rendred him, and the rights payed to the Custome-house, according to the Register, and as they are either in part, or in all made sale of.

Brokers are continually there attending, being informed in the quality of the Merchandises stored, and likewise to what Merchants they appertaine: by meanes of these men, and according as the goods come to their hands, they deuise to haue them exchaunged, trucked, vented, and such other kinds of dispatches, answerable to the mens minds, and worth of the Commodities. As in many o∣ther Kingdomes and Countries, so was this custome obserued at Palermo in Sicily, where likewise then were, and (no doubt) now a∣dayes are, store of Women, faire and comely of person, but yet vowed enemies to honesty.

Neuerthelesse, by such as know them not, they are held and re∣puted to be blamelesse Women, and by yeilding their bodyes vn∣to generall vse, are the occasion of infinite misfortunes to men. For so soone as they espy a Merchant-stranger there arriued, they vvin information from the Booke belonging to the Magazin, what wares are therein stored, of what valew they bee, and who is the Owner of them. Afterwards, by amorous actions, and affable speeches, they allure yong Merchants to take knowledge of them, to bee fa∣miliar in their company, till from some they get most part of their

wealth, from others all. Nay, diuers haue gone so farre, as to make Port-sale of Ship, Goods, and Person, so cunningly they haue bene shauen by these Barbers, and yet without any Razor.

It came to passe, and no long time since, that a young Florentine of ours, named Niccolo d•• Cignano, but more vsually called Sala∣betto, imployed as Factor for his Maister, arriued at Palermo; his Ship stored with many Woollen Cloathes, a remainder of such as had bin sold at the Mart of Salerno, amounting in valew to aboue fiue hundred Florines of Gold. When he had giuen in his packet to the Custome-house, and made them vp safe in his Warehouse; without making shew of desiring any speedy dispatch, he delighted to view all parts of the City, as mens minds are continuallie addi∣cted to Nouelties. He being a very faire and affable yong man, ea∣sie to kindle affection in a very modest eie: it fortuned, that a Cour∣tezane, one of our before remembred shauers, who termed hir selfe Madame Biancafiore, hauing heard somewhat concerning his affairs, beganne to dart amorous glances at him. Which the indiscreete youth perceyuing, and thinking her to be some great Lady: began also to grow halfe perswaded, that his comely person was pleasing to her, and therefore he would carrie this good fortune of his some∣what cautelously.

Without imparting his mind vnto any one, he would daily passe too and fro before her doore; which she obseruing, and hauing in∣differently wounded him with her wanton piercing lookes: she be∣gan to vse the first tricke of her Trade, by pretending her enflamed affection towards him, which made her pine and consume away in care, except he might be moued to pitty her. Whereupon, she sent one of her Pandoraes vnto him, perfectly instructed in the Art of a Maquerella, who (after many cunning counterfetted sighes, and teares, which she had alwayes ready at command, told him; that his comely person and compleate perfections, had so wounded the very soule of her Mistresse, as she could enioy no rest in any place, either by day or night. In regard whereof, she desired (aboue all things else) to meete with him priuately in a Bathe: with which Wordes, she straightway tooke a Ring forth of her pursse, and in most humble manner, deliuered it vnto him, as a token from her Mistresse.

Salabetto hauing heard this Message, was the onely ioyfull man that could be: and hauing receyued the Ring, looking on it aduised∣ly; first kissed it, and then put it vpon his finger. Then in answer to the Messenger, he sayd: That if her Mistresse Biancafiore affected him, she sustained no losse thereby, in regard he loued her as fer∣uently, and was ready to be commanded by her, at any time when∣soeuer she pleased.

She hauing deliuered this message to her Mistresse, was present∣ly returned backe againe to him, to let him vnderstand, in which of the Bathes she meant to meet him, on the next morrow in the eue∣ning. This being counsell for himselfe onely to keepe, he imparted it not to any friend whatsoeuer; but when the houre for their mee∣ting was come, he went vnto the place where he was appointed, a Bathe (belike) best agreeing with such businesse.

Not long had he taried there, but two Women slaues came la∣den to him, the one bearing a Mattresse of fine Fustian on hir head, and the other a great Basket filled with many things. Hauing spred the Mattresse in a faire Chamber on a Couch-bed, they couered it with delicate white Linnen sheets, all about embroidred with faire Fringes of gold, then laid they on costly quilts of rich Silkes, artifi∣cially wrought with gold and siluer knots, hauing pearles and pre∣cious stones interwouen among them, and two such rich pillowes, as sildome before had the like bin seene. Salabetto putting off his garments, entred the Bath prepared for him, where the two Slaues washed his body very neatly. Soone after came Biancafiore hirselfe, attended on by two other women slaues, and seeing Salabetto in the Bathe; making him a lowly reuerence, breathing forth infinite dis∣sembled sighes, and teares trickling downe her cheekes, kissing and embracing him, thus she spake.

I know not what man else in the worlde, beside thy selfe, could haue the power to bring me hither: the fire flew from thy faire eies (O thou incompareable louely Tuscane) that melted my soule, and makes me onely liue at thy command. Then hurling off her light wearing garment (because she came prepared for the purpose) shee stept into the bathe to him, and, not permitting the Slaues a while to come neere, none but her selfe must now laue his body, with Muske compounded Sope and Gilly-floures. Afterward, the slaues washed both him and her, bringing two goodly sheetes, softe and white, yeelding such a delicate smell of Roses, euen as if they had bene made of Rose-leaues. In the one, they folded Salabetto, and her in the other, and so conueyed them on their shoulders vnto the prepared Bed-Couch, where because they should not sweate any longer, they tooke the sheets from about them, and laid them gent∣ly in the bed.

Then they opened the Basket, wherein were diuers goodly Sil∣uer bottles, some filled with Rosewaters, others with flowers of O∣renges, and Waters distilled of Gelsomine, Muske, and Amber-Greece, wherewith (againe) the slaues bathed their bodyes in the bed, & afterward presented them with variety of Comfites, as also very precious Wines, seruing them in stead of a little Collation. Salabetto supposed himself to be in Paradise: for this appeared to be

no earthly ioy, bestowing a 〈…〉〈…〉 (questionles se) was a 〈…〉〈…〉 the Slaues, seemed millions of year•• to him, 〈…〉〈…〉 freely 〈…〉〈…〉 the 〈…〉〈…〉 Salabetto, bestowed those further fauours on him, which hee came for, and she was not 〈…〉〈…〉 was exceedingly ioyfull, because he imagined, that they proceed∣ed from the integrity of her affection towards him.

When she thought it conuenient time to depart thence, the slaues returned; they cloathed themselues, and had a Banquet standing ready prepared for them; where-with they cheared their wearye•• spirits, after they had first washed in odorifferous w••ters. At par∣ting: Salabetto (quoth she) whensoeuer thy leysures shal best serue thee, I will repute it as my cheefest happinesse, that thou wilt ac∣cept a Supper and Lodging in my house, which let it be this instant night, if thou canst. He being absolutely caught, both by hi•• beau∣ty and flattering behauiour: beleeued faithfully, that he was as in∣tirely beloued of her, as the heart is of the body: whereuppon hee thus answered. Madame, whatsoeuer pleaseth you, must needes be much more acceptable vnto mee: and therefore, not onely may command my seruice this night, but likewise the whole em∣ployment of my life, to be onely yours in my very best studies and endeauours.

No sooner did she heare this answer, but she returned home to her owne house, which she decked in most sumptuous maner, and also made ready a costly Supper, expecting the arriuall of Satabet∣to: who when the darke night was indifferently well entred, went thither, and was welcommed with wonderfull kindnesse, wanting no costly Wines and Delicates all the Supper 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Being after∣ward conducted into a goodly Chamber, he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 here admirable sweete senting sauors, such as might well beseeme a Princes Pal∣lace. He beheld a most costly Bed, and very rich 〈◊〉〈◊〉 round about the roome: which when he had duly considered to himself, he was constantly perswaded, that she was a Lady of infinit wealth, And although he had heard diuers flying reports concerning 〈◊〉〈◊〉 life, yet hee would not credite any thing 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of her, for 〈◊〉〈◊〉 she might (perhappes) beguile some other; yet shee affected 〈◊〉〈◊〉 (he thought) in better manner, and no such misfortune could hap∣pen to him.

Hauing spent all the night with her in want on 〈…〉〈…〉 be∣ing risen in the morning; to enflame his affection more and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 towards her, and to preuent any 〈◊〉〈◊〉 opinion he might 〈…〉〈…〉 her, she bestowed a rich and 〈…〉〈…〉 on him, as also a 〈◊〉〈◊〉

most curiously wrought, saying to him. My sweet Salabetto, with these testimonies of my true affection to thee, I giue thee faithfully to vnderstand, that as my person is onely subiected thine; so this house and all the riches in it, remaineth absolutely at thy dispositi∣on, or whatsoeuer hereafter shal happen within the compasse of my power.

He being not a little proud of this her bountifull offer (hauing neuer bestowed any gift on her, because by no meanes shee would admit it) after many sweet kisses and embraces; departed thence, to the place where the Merchants vsually frequented: resorting to her (from time to time) as occasion serued, and paying not one sin∣gle peny for all his wanton pleasure, by which cunning baytes (at length) she caught him.

It came to passe, that hauing made sale of all his Clothes, where∣by hee had great gaines, and the moneyes iustly payed him at the times appointed: Biancafiore got intelligence thereof; yet not by him, but from one of the Brokers. Salabetto comming one night to sup with her, she embraced and kissed him as she was wont to doe, and seemed so wonderfully addicted in loue to him, euen as if shee would haue dyed with delight in his armes. Instantly, shee would needs bestow two goodly gilt standing Cuppes on him, which Sa∣labetto by no meanes would receiue, because she had formerly bin very bountifull to him, to aboue the value of an hundred Crowns, and yet she would not take of him so much as a mite. At length, pressing still more tokens of her loue and bounty on him, which he as courteously denied, as she kindly offered: one of her▪ Women∣slaues (as shee had before cunningly appointed) sodainely calling her, forthwith she departed out of her Chamber. And when she had continued a pretty while absent, she returned againe weeping, and throwing her selfe downe vpon her Pallet, breathed forth such sighes and wofull lamentations, as no Woman could possibly doe the like.

Salabetto amazedly wondering thereat, tooke her in his Armes, and weeping also with her, said. Alas my deare Loue, what sodain accident hath befalne you, to vrge this lamentable alteration? If you loue me, hide it not from me. After he had often entreated her in this manner, casting her armes about his necke, and sighing as if her heart would breake, thus she replyed.

Ah Salabetto, the onely Iewell of my ioy on earth, I knowe not what to do, or say, for (euen now) I receiued Letters from Messi∣••a, wherein my Brother writes to me, that although it cost the sale of all my goods, or whatsoeuer else I haue beside, I must (within eight dayes space) not faile to send him a thousand Florins of gold, or else he must haue his head smitten off, and I know not by what

meanes to procure them so soone. For, if the limitation of fifteene dayes might serue the turne, I could borrow them in a place, where I can command a farre greater summe, or else I would sel some part of our Lands. But beeing no way able to furnish him so soone, I would I had died before I heard these dismall tydings. And in the vttering of these words, she graced them with such cunning dissem∣bled sorrow, as if she had meant truly indeed.

Salabetto, in whom the fury of his amorous flames, had consu∣med a great part of his necessary vnderstanding, beleeuing these counterfetted tears and complaints of hers, to proceed from an ho∣nest meaning soule; rashly and foolishly thus replied. Deare Bianca∣fiore, I cannot furnish you with a thousand golden Florines, but am able to lend you fiue hundred, if I were sure of their repayment at fifteene dayes, wherein you are highly beholding to Fortune, that I haue made sale of all my Cloathes; which if they had lyen still on my hand, my power could not stretch to lend you fiue Florines. Alas deare heart (quoth she) would you be in such want of money, and hide it from her that loues you so loyally? Why did you not make your need knowne to me? Although I am not furnished of a thousand Florines; yet I haue alwaies ready three or foure hundred by me, to do any kinde office for my friend. In thus wronging me, you haue robd me of all boldnes, to presume vpon your offer made me. Salabetto, far faster inveigled by these words then before, said. Let not my folly (bright Biancafiore) cause you to refuse my friend∣ly offer, in such a case of extreme necessity: I haue them ready pre∣pared for you, and am heartily sory, that my power cannot furnish you with the whole summe.

Then catching him fast in her armes, thus she answered. Now I plainly perceiue, my dearest Salabetto, that the loue thou bearest me is true and perfect; when without expectation of being reque∣sted, thou art readie to succour me in such an vrgent neede, & with so faire a summe of Florines. Sufficiently was I thine owne before, but now am much more ingaged by so high deseruing; with this particular acknowledgement for euer, that my Brothers head was redeemed by thy goodnesse onely. Heauen beareth me record, how vnwilling I am to be beholding in this kind, considring that you are a Merchant, & Merchants furnish al their affairs with ready monis: but seeing necessity constraineth me, and I make no doubt of repai∣ment at the time appointed: I shall the more boldly accept your kindnes, with this absolute promise beside, that I wil rather sell all the houses I haue, then breake my honest word with you

Counterfeit teares still drayning downe her cheeks, and Salabet∣to kindly comforting her; he continued there with hir all that night,

to expresse himselfe her most liberall seruant. And, without expe∣cting any more requesting, the next morning he brought her the fiue hundred Florines, which she receiued with a laughing heart, but outward dissembled weeping eies; Salabetto neuer demanding any other security, but onely her single promise.

Biancafiore, hauing thus receiued the fiue hundred Florines, the indiction of the Almanacke began to alter: and whereas (before) Salabetto could come see her whensoeuer he pleased, many occasi∣ons now happened, whereby he came seuen times for once, and yet his entrance was scarsely admitted, neither was his entertainment so affable, or his cheare so bountifull, as in his former accesses thi∣ther. Moreouer, when the time for repaiment was come, yea a mo∣neth or two ouer-past, and he demanded to haue his money; hee could haue nothing but words for paiment. Now he began to con∣sider on the craft and cunning of this wicked Woman, as also his owne shallow vnderstanding, knowing he could make no proofe of his debt, but what her selfe listed to say, hauing neither witnes, spe∣cialty, bill or bond to shew: which made his folly so shamefull to him, that he durst not complaine to any person, because he had re∣ceiued some aduertisements before, whereto he wold by no means listen, and now should haue no other amends, but publike infamie, scorne and disgrace, which made him almost weary of his life, and much to bemoane his owne vnhappinesse. He receiued also diuers Letters from his Master, to make returne of the 500. Florines ouer by way of banke, according as he had vsed to do: but nowe could performe no such matter.

Hereupon, because his error should not be discouered, he depar∣ted in a small vessell thence, not making for Pisa, as he should haue done, but directly for Naples hee shaped his course. At that instant lodged there, Don Pietro della Conigiano, Treasurer of the Empresse of Constantinople, a man of great wisedome and vnderstanding, as also very ingenious and politike, he being an especiall Fauourer of Salabetto and all his friendes, which made him presume the more boldly (being vrged thereto by meere necessity, the best corrector of wandering wits) to acquaint him with his lamentable misfor∣tune, in euery particular as it had hapned, requesting his aid and ad∣uice, how he might best weare out the rest of his dayes, because hee neuer meant to visit Florence any more.

Conigiano being much displeased at the repetition of his Follie, sharply reproued him, saying. Thou hast done leudly, in carying thy selfe so loosely, and spending thy Masters goods so carelesly, which though I cannot truly tearme spent, but rather art meerely cous••∣ned and cheated of them, yet thou seest at what a deere rate thou

hast purchased pleasure, which yet is not vtterly helplesse, but may by one meanes or other be recouered. And being a man of woon∣derfull apprehension, aduised him instantly what was to bee done, furnishing him also with a summe of money, wherewith to aduen∣ture a second losse, in hope of recouering the first againe: he caused diuers Packes to be well bound vp, with the Merchants markes or∣derly made on them, and bought about twenty Buttes or Barrelles, all filled (as it were) with Oyle, and these pretended commodities being shipt, Salabetto returned with them to Palermo. Where ha∣uing giuen in his packets to the Custome-house, and entred them all vnder his owne name, as being both owner and factor: all his Wares were lockt vp in his Magizine, with open publication, that he would not vent any of them, before other merchandises (which he daily expected) were there also arriued.

Biancafiore hauing heard thereof, and vnderstanding withall, that he had brought Merchandises now with him, amounting to aboue two thousand Florins, staying also in expectation of other commo∣dities, valewing better then three thousand more, she beganne to consider with her selfe, that she had not yet gotten money enough from him, and therefore would cast a figure for a farre bigger boo∣ty. Which that she might the more fairely effect, without so much as an imagination of the least mistrust: she would repay him backe his fiue hundred Florines, to winne from him a larger portion of two or three thousand at the least, and hauing thus setled her deter∣mination, she sent to haue him come speake with her. Salabetto, hauing bene soundly bitten before, and therefore the better war∣ranted from the like ranckling teeth; willingly went to her, not she∣wing any signe of former discontent: & she, seeming as if she knew nothing of the wealth he brought with him, gracing him in as lo∣uing manner as euer she had done, thus she spake.

I am sure Salabetto, you are angry with mee, because I restored not your Florines at my promised day. Salabetto smiling, present∣ly answered. Beleeue me Lady (quoth he) it did a little distast me, euen as I could haue bin offended with him, that should plucke out my heart to bestow it on you, if it would yeelde you any content∣ment. But to let you know vnfainedly, how much I am incensed with anger against you: such and so great is the affection I beare you, that I haue solde the better part of my whole estate, conuer∣ting the same into Wealthy Merchandises, which I haue alreadie brought hither with mee, and valewing aboue two thousand Flo∣rines, all which are stored vp in my Magazine. There must they re∣maine, till another Ship come forth of the Westerne parts, where∣in I haue a much greater aduenture, amounting vnto more then

three thousand Florines. And my purpose is, to make my aboade heere in this City, which hath won the sole possession of my heart, onely in regard of my Biancafiore, to whō I am so intirely deuoted, as both my selfe, and whatsoeuer else is mine (now or hereafter) is dedicated onely to her seruice; whereto thus she replyed.

Now trust me Salabetto, whatsoeuer redoundeth to thy good and benefite, is the cheefest comfort of my soule, in regard I prize thy loue dearer then mine owne life, and am most ioyfull of thy re∣rurne hither againe; but much more of thy still abiding heere, be∣cause I intend to liue onely with thee, so soone as I haue taken order for some businesse of import. In the meane while, let me entreate thee to hold me excused, because before thy departure hence, thou camest sometimes to see me, without thy entrance admitted; and other-whiles againe, found not such friendly entertainement, as formerly had bene affoorded. But indeede, and aboue all the rest, in not re-paying thy money according to my promise. But consi∣der good Salabetto, in what great trouble and affliction of minde I then was, both in regard of my Brothers danger, and other impor∣tant occurrences beside, which mollestations do much distract the senses, and hinder kinde courtesies, which otherwise would bee ex∣tended liberally.

Last of all consider also, how difficult a thing it is for a woman, so sodainly to raise the summe of a thousand golden Florines, when one friend promiseth, and performeth not; another protesteth, yet hath no such meaning; a third sweareth, and yet proueth a false Ly∣ar: so that by being thus vngently vsed, a breach is made betweene the best frends liuing. From hence it proceeded, and no other de∣fect else, that I made not due returne of your fiue hundred Florins. No sooner were you departed hence, but I had them readie, and as many more, and could I haue knowne whither to send them, they had bene with you long time since, which because I could not (by any meanes) compasse, I kept them still for you in continuall readi∣nesse, as hoping of your comming hither againe. So causing a purse to be brought, wherein the same Florines were, which hee had deli∣uered her; she gaue it into his hand, and prayed him to count them ouer, whether there were so many, or no.

Neuer was Salabettoes heart halfe so ioyfull before; and hauing counted them, found them to be his owne fiue hundred Florines: then, putting them vp into his pocket, he saide. Comfort of my life, Full well I know that whatsoeuer you haue saide, is most cer∣taine; but let vs talke no more of falshood in friendship, or casuall accidents happening vnexpected: you haue dealt with mee like a most loyall Mistresse, and heere I protest vnsainedly to you, that as

well in respect of this kinde courtesie, as also the constancy of mi••e affection to you, you cannot request hereafter a far greater summe of me, to supply any necessarie occasion of yours; but (if my power can performe it) you shall assuredly finde it certaine: make proofe thereof whensoeuer you please, after my other goods are Landed, and I haue established my estate here in your City.

Hauing in this manner renewed his wonted amity with her, and with words farre enough off from all further meaning: Salabetto began againe to frequent her company, she expressing all former fa∣miliarity, and shewing her selfe as lauishly bountifull to him, in all respects as before she had done, nay, many times in more magnifi∣cent manner.

But he intending to punish her notorious trechery towards him, when she left him as an open scorne to the World, wounded with disgrace, and quite out of credit with all his friends: she hauing (on a day) solemnly inuited him, to suppe and lodge in her house all night; he went, both with sad and melancholly lookes, seeming as ouercome with extreamity of sorrow. Biancafiore meruayling at this strange alteration in him, sweetly kissing and embracing him: would needs know the reason of his passionate affliction, & he per∣mitting her to vrge the question oftentimes together, without re∣turning any direct answere; to quit her in her kind, and with coine of her owne stampe, after a few dissembled sighes, he began in this manner.

Ah my dearest Loue, I am vtterly vndone, because the Shippe containing the rest of mine expected Merchandises, is taken by the Pyrates of Monago, and put to the ransome of tenne thousand Flo∣rines of Gold, and my part particularly, is to pay one thousand. At this instant I am vtterly destitute of money, because the fiue hun∣dred Florines which I receiued of you, I sent hence the next daie day following to Naples, to buy more cloathes, which likewise are to be sent hither. And if I should now make sale of the Merchan∣dizes in my Magazine (the time of generall vtterance being not yet come) I shall not make a pennyworth for a penny. And my misfor∣tune is the greater, because I am not so well knowne heere in your City, as to find some succour in such an important distresse; wher∣fore I know not what to do or say. Moreouer, if the money be not speedily sent, our goods will be carried into Monago, and then they are past all redemption vtterly.

Biancafiore appearing greatly discontented, as one verily perswa∣ded, that this pretended losse was rather hers, then his, because she aymed at the mainest part of all his wealth: began to consider with her selfe, which was the likeliest course to bee taken, for sauing the

goods from carriage to Monago: wherupon thus she replied. Hea∣uen knoweth (my dearest Salabetto) how thy loue maketh me sor∣rowfull for this misfortune, and it greeueth me to see thee any way distressed: for if I had mony lying by mee (as many times I haue) thou shouldst finde succour from my selfe onely, but indeede I am not able to helpe thee. True it is, there is a friend of mine, who did lend me fiue hundred Florines in my need, to make vppe the other summe which I borrowed of thee: but he demandeth extreme in∣terest, because he will not abate any thing of thirty in the hundred, and if you should bee forced to vse him, you must giue him some good security. Now for my part, the most of my goods here I will pawne for thee: but what pledge can you deliuer in to make vp the rest? Wel did Salabetto conceiue, the occasion why she vrged this motion, and was so diligent in doing him such a pleasure: for it ap∣peared euidently to him, that herselfe was to lend the mony, wherof he was not a litle ioyful, seeming very thankful to hir. Then he told her, that being driuen to such extremity, how vnreasonable soeuer the vsury was, yet he would gladly pay for it. And for her Friends further security, hee would pawne him all the goods in his Maga∣zine, entering them downe in the name of the party, who lent the money. Onely he desired to keepe the Keyes of the Ware-house, as well to shew his Merchandises, when any Merchant should bee so desirous: as also to preserue them from ill vsing, transporting or changing, before his redemption of them.

She found no fault with his honest offer, but sayde, hee shewed himselfe a well-meaning man, and the next morning shee sent for a Broker, in whom she reposed especiall trust; and after they had pri∣uately consulted together, shee deliuered him a thousand Golden Florines, which were caried by him presently to Salabetto, and the Bond made in the Brokers name, of all the goods remaining in Sala∣bettoes ware-house, with composition and absolute agreement, for the prefixed time of the monies repaiment. No sooner was this tricke fully accomplished, but Salabetto seeming as if he went to re∣deeme his taken goods: set saile for Naples towards Pietro della Ca∣nigiano, with fifteene hundred Florines of Gold: from whence al∣so he sent contentment to his Master at Florence (who imployd him as his Factor at Palermo) beside his owne packes of Cloathes. He made repayment likewise to Canigniano, for the monies which fur∣nished him in this last voyage, and any other to whom hee was in∣debted. So there he stayed awhile with Canigniano, whose counsel thus holpe him to out-reach the Sicillian Courtezane: and meaning to deale in Merchandise no more, afterward he returned to Florence and there liued in good reputation.

Now as concerning Biancafiore, when she saw that Salabetto re∣turned not againe to Palermo, she beganne to grow somewhat a••••∣shed, as halfe suspecting that which followed. After she had 〈◊〉〈◊〉 for him aboue two moneths space, and perceiued hee came not, nor any tydings heard of him: shee caused the Broker to breake o∣pen the Magazine, casting forth the Buttes or Barrels, which shee beleeued to bee full of good Oyles. But they were all filled with Sea-water, each of them hauing a small quantity of Oyle floating on the toppe, onely to serue when a tryall should bee made. And then vnbinding the Packes, made vp in formall and Merchantable manner: there was nothing else in them, but Logges and stumpes of Trees, wrapt handsomely in hurdles of Hempe and Tow; onely two had Cloathes in them. So that (to bee briefe) the whole did not value two hundred Crownes: which when she saw, and obser∣ued how cunningly she was deceiued: a long while after shee sor∣rowed, for repaying backe the fiue hundred Florines, and folly in lending a thousand more, vsing it as a Prouerbe alwaies after to hir selfe: That whosoeuer dealt with a Tuscane, had neede to haue sound sight and iudgement. So remaining contented (whither she would or no) with her losse: she plainly perceyued, that although she li∣ued by cheating others, yet now at the length she had mette with her match.

SO soone as Dioneus had ended his Nouell, Madame Lau∣retta also knew, that the conclusion of her Regiment was come; whereupon, when the counsell of Canigiano had past with generall commendation, and the wit of Salabetto no lesse applauded, for fitting it with such an effectuall prosecution; shee tooke the Crowne of Laurell from her owne head, and set it vpon Madame Aemilliaes, speaking graciously in this manner. Madam, I am not able to say, how pleasant a Queene we shall haue of you, but sure I am, that we shall enioy a faire one: let matters therefore be so honourably carried; that your gouernment may be answera∣ble to your beautifull perfections; which words were no sooner de∣liuered, but she sate downe in her mounted seate.

Madame Aemillia being somewhat bashfull, not so much of hir being created Queene, as to heare her selfe thus publikely praysed, with that which Women do most of all desire: her face then ap∣pearing, like the opening of the Damaske Rose, in the goodlyest morning. But after she had a while deiected her lookes, and the Vermillion blush was vanished away: having taken order with the Master of the houshold, for all needefull occasions befitting the as∣sembly, thus she began.

Gracious Ladies, wee behold it daily, that those Oxen which haue laboured in the yoake most part of the day, for their more conuenient feeding, are let forth at liberty, and permitted to wan∣der abroad in the Woods. We see moreouer, that Gardens and Orchards, being planted with variety of the fairest fruit Trees, are equalled in beauty by Woods and Forrests, in the plentifull enioy∣ing of as goodly spreading branches. In consideration whereof, re∣membring how many dayes wee haue already spent (vnder the se∣ueritie of Lawes imposed) shaping all our discourses to a forme of obseruation: I am of opinion, that it will not onely well become vs, but also proue beneficiall for vs, to liue no longer vnder such re∣straint, and like enthralled people, desirous of liberty, wee should no more be subiected to the yoke, but recouer our former strength in walking freely.

Wherefore, concerning our pastime purposed for to morrow, I am not minded to vse any restriction, or tye you vnto any particu∣lar ordination: but rather do liberally graunt, that euery one shall deuise and speake of arguments agreeing with your owne dispositi∣ons.

Besides, I am verily perswaded, that variety of matter vttered so freely, will be much more delightfull, then restraint to one kinde of

purpose onely. Which being thus granted by me, whosoeuer shal succeede me in the gouernment, may (as being of more power and preheminence) restraine all backe againe to the accustomed lawes. And hauing thus spoken, she dispensed with their any longer atten∣dance, vntill it should be Supper time.

Euery one commended the Queenes appointment, allowing it to rellish of good wit and iudgement; and being all risen, fell to such exercises as they pleased. The Ladies made Nosegaies and Chap∣lets of Flowers, the men played on their Instruments, singing di∣uers sweete Ditties to them, and thus were busied vntill Supper time. Which beeing come, and they supping about the beautifull Fountaine: after Supper, they fell to singing and dauncing. In the end, the Queene, to imitate the order of her predecessors, comman∣ded Pamphilus, that notwithstanding all the excellent songs for∣merly sung: he should now sing one, whereunto dutifully obeying, thus he began.

THE SONG.

The Chorus sung by all.

LOVE, I found such felicitie, And ioy, in thy captiuitie: As I before did neuer proue, And thought me happy, being in Loue.

COmfort abounding in my hart, Ioy and Delight In soule and spright I did possesse in euery part; O Soueraigne Loue by thee. Thy Sacred fires, Fed my desires, And still aspires, Thy happy thrall to bee. Loue, I found such felicity, &c.

My Song wants power to relate, The sweets of minde Which I did finde In that most blissefull state, O Soueraigne Loue by thee. No sad despaire, Or killing care Could me prepare; Still thou didst comfort me. Loue, I found such felicity, &c.

I hate all such as do complaine, Blaspheming thee With Cruelty, And sleights of coy disdaine. O Soueraigne Loue, to mee Thou hast bene kinde: If others finde Thee worse inclinde, Yet I will honour thee.

LOVE, I found such felicitie, And ioy in thy Captiuitie: As I before did neuer proue, But thought me happie, being in Loue.

Thus the Song of Pamphilus ended, whereto all the rest (as a Chorus) answered with their Voyces, yet euery one particularly (according as they felt their Loue-sicke passions) made a curious construction thereof, perhaps more then they needed, yet not Di∣uining what Pamphilus intended. And although they were trans∣ported with variety of imaginations; yet none of them could ariue at his true meaning indeed. Wherefore the Queene, perceiuing the Song to be fully ended, and the Ladies, as also the young Gentle∣men, willing to go take their rest: she commaunded them seuerally to their Chambers.