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THE SPANISH LADIE.

THE FIFT BOOKE.

AMongst those many spoyles which the Conquerours of the famous Northern Island (governed then by a most noble Queene) carried away from the Citie of Cadiz; Clotaldo, Captaine of a squa∣dron of Ships, brought along with him to Mundolin, metropolis of that Isle, a Girle of the age of seven yeares, little more or lesse, and this contrary to the will and knowledge of the Generall; who with great diligence caused search to bee made for the Childe, that she might bee returned backe to her Pa∣rents, who had complained unto him, of the wanting of their Daughter; humbly beseeching him, that since his Excellencie was pleased to content himselfe with their goods, and out of his noblenesse had left their persons free; that they onely might not be so miserable and unhap∣pie, that seeing they were now left poore, they might not berobb'd of their Daughter, who was the joy of their hearts, the light of their eyes, and the fayrest and beauti∣fullest Page  210 creature that was in all the Citie. The Generall caused Proclamation to bee made throughout all the whole Fleet, that upon paine of death, he whosoever had the Childe, should restore her backe to her Pa∣rents. But no penalties, nor feares of punishment could move Clotaldo to obey the Generalls command. For he kept her very secret and close in his owne Ship, standing wonderfully affectioned, though very Christianly, to the incomparable beauty of Isabella, for so was the Childe called.

In conclusion, her Parents remained without her very sad and disconsolate, and Clotaldo beyond measure exceed∣ing glad and joyfull. He arrived at Mundolin, and delive∣red up this fayre Mayde as a most rich spoyle, to his Wife. But as good lucke would have it, all they of Clotaldo's house were Christians in heart, though in pub∣licke they made show to follow the religion of the Countrey.

Clotaldo had a Sonne named Ricaredo, about some 12. yeares of age, taught by his Parents to love and feare God. Catalina the Wife of Clotaldo, a noble Christian, and prudent Ladie, bare such great love and affection to Isa∣bella, (that as if shee had beene her owne Daughter,) shee bred, cherished, industriated, and instructed her; and the Childe had such good naturall abilities, that shee did easily apprehend and learne whatsoever they taught her. With time, and the kinde usage shee recei∣ved, she went forgetting those cockerings of her true Parents; but not so much that she did cease to thinke on them, and to sigh often for them. And although she went learning the tongue of the Island, yet did shee not lose her Spanish. For Clotaldo tooke care to bring Spa∣nyards secretly to his house, to talke and converse with her. And so without forgetting her owne naturall lan∣guage, she spake the other as well as if she had been born in Mundolin.

Page  211After that they had taught her all manner of workes, which a well bred Damosell could, or ought to learne, they taught her to read and to write more then indif∣ferently well. But that wherein shee did excell, was in playing upon all those Instruments of Musicke, which might with most decencie become a woman; accompanying the same with such a voyce which Heaven had bestowed on her in so rare and singular a kinde, that when she chaunted, she inchaunted all that heard her.

All these her acquired graces, besides those that were na∣turall unto her, went by little and little, kindling the coals of love in Ricaredo's heart; to whom as to her Masters Son, she wished all good and happinesse, and carried her selfe towards him with all faire respects.

At first love led him on with onely a kinde of liking and complacencie, in beholding the unmatchable beauty of Isabella; and in considering her infinite vertues and graces, and loving her as if shee had beene his Sister, his desires not going beyond their honest and vertuous bounds. But when as Isabella began to grow towards woman, (for then when Ricaredo burned in the flames of love shee was twelve yeares of age) that his former good will, and that complacencie and liking, was tur∣ned into most fervent desires of enjoying and posses∣sing her, not that hee did aspire thereunto by any other meanes, then by those of being her Husband; since that from the incomparable beautie of Isabel (for so did they call her) no other thing could be hoped for, neither would hee himselfe, though hee could have expected that favour from her; because his noble condition, and the high e∣steeme wherein hee held Isabella, would not give the least way or consent, that any the least evill thought should take any rooting in his soule.

A thousand times did hee determine with himselfe to manifest the love he bare her to his Parents; and againe Page  212 as oft did he not approve this his determination, because he knew that they had dedicated him for to bee the hus∣band of a very rich and principall Gentlewoman, a Nor∣thern Damosell, who was likewise (like them) a close and concealed Christian. And it was cleare and apparant, (as he conceived, and said with himselfe) that they would not bee willing to give unto a slave (if this name may bee given to Isabella) that which they had treated, and in a manner concluded on to give to a gentlewoman. And therefore being much perplexed and pensive, not know∣ing what course to take for to attaine to the end of his good desire▪ he passed over such a kinde of life as had al∣most brought him to the point of losing it. But it seeming unto him to bee great cowardize and faint-heartednesse, to suffer himselfe to dye without seeking out some kinde of remedie for his griefe; he did hearten and incourage himselfe to open his minde, and declare his intent to Isabella.

All they of the house were very sad and heavie, and much troubled by reason of Ricaredo his sicknesse. (for hee was well beloved of them all,) but his Father and Mother exceeding sorrowfull, as well for that they had no other Childe, as also for that his great vertue, valour, and under∣standing did deserve it. The Phisitians did not hit right up∣on his disease, neither durst he, neither would he discover it unto them. In the end, being fully resolved to breake through these difficulties which hee imagined with him∣selfe; one day amongst the rest, that Isabella came in to serve and attend him, seeing her all alone, with a low voyce, and a troubled tongue, he spake unto her after this manner.

Faire Isabella, thy much worth, thy great vertue, and exceeding beautie, not to be equalled by any; have brought me to that exteamitie wherein you see me; and therefore if you will that I should leave my life in the hands of the greatest extreamitie that may bee imagined; let thy good Page  213 desire be answerable unto mine, which is no other then to receive thee for my Spouse. But this must bee carried closely, and kept hid from my Parents, of whom I am afraid (who because they know that which I know, thy great deservingnesse) that they will denie mee that good which doth so much concerne mee. If thou wilt give me thy word to bee mine, I shall forthwith passe mine, as a true Christian to be thine. And put case that I should never come to enjoy thee, as I will not till that I have the Churches benediction, and my Parents good will, yet with this my imagining, that thou wilt be assuredly mine, it will be sufficient to recover me my health, and to make me live merrily and contented, till that happie and desired time shall come.

Whilest that Ricaredo discoursed thus with her, Isabella stood hearkening unto him with downe cast eyes, shew∣ing in that her modest and sober looke, that her ho∣nestie did equall her beautie, and her circumspection, her great discretion. And seeing that Ricaredo had made an end of speaking, and was silent; this honest, faire, and dis∣creet Damosell made him this answer.

Since that the rigour or clemency of Heaven (for I know not to which of these extreames I may attribute it) would (Signior Ricaredo) quit me of my Parents, and give me unto yours, (thankefully acknowledging the infinite favours they have done me.) I resolved with my selfe, that my will should never be any other then theirs; and therefore without it, the inestimable grace and favour which you are willing to doe mee, I should not hold it a happinesse, but a miserie, not a good, but a bad fortune. But if they being made acquainted therewith, I might bee so happie as to deserve you, from this day forward I offer unto you that will and consent which they shall give mee. And in the meane while that this shall be or deferred, or not at all effected; let your desires entertaine themselves with this, that mine shall bee eternall, and pure, in wishing you all Page  214 that good which Heaven can give you.

Here did Isabella put a period to her honest and discreet words, and there began Ricaredo's recoverie. And now be∣gan to bee revived those hopes of his Parents, which in this his sicknesse were almost quite dead.

These two modest Lovers with a gseat deale of courte∣sie and kindnesse tooke leave each of other; he with tears in his eyes, shee with admiration in her soule, to see that Ricaredo should render up his love, to hers. Who being raysed from his bed (to his Parents seeming) by miracle; hee would not now any longer conceale his thoughts, and therefore one day he manifested them to his Mother, tel∣ling her in the end of his discourse, that if they did not Marrie him to Isabella, that to denie him her, and give him his death, it was one and the same thing. With such words, and with such endearings Ricaredo did extoll to the Hea∣vens the vertues of Isabella, that it seemed to his Mother, that Isabella had not wrought upon her Son to win him to be her Husband. She did put her Son in good hope so to dispose his Father, that he might like as well thereof, as she did. And it so fell out, that repeating to her Husband word by word, what her Son had sayd unto her, he was easily moved to give way to that which his Son so ear∣nestly desired, framing excuses to hinder that Marriage, which was in a manner agreed upon for the Northern Damosell.

When this was in agitation, Isabella was 14. yeares of age, and Ricaredo 20. And in these their so green and flou∣rishing years, their great discretion and knowne prudence, made them ancient.

There were but foure dayes wanting to come, which being accomplished, Ricaredo his Parents were willing that their Sonne should enter into the state of Matrimonie, holding themselves both wise, and happie, in having cho∣sen their prisoner to be their Daughter, esteeming more the dowrie of her vertues, then the great store of wealth that Page  215 was offered with the Northerne Damosell.

The wedding clothes were already made, their kinsfolk and friends invited thereunto; and there was no other thing wanting, save making the Queene acquainted with Marriage, because without her good will and consent, the amongst those of noble bloud, not any Marriage is effected; but they doubted not of her good leave, and licence, and therefore had so long deferred the craving of it.

I say then, that all things standing in this estate, when there wanted but foure dayes till that of the wedding, one evening gave disturbance to all this their joy. A servant of the Queenes came and brought a message to Clotaldo, with expresse command from her Majestie, that the next morning he should bring to her Presence his Spanish Priso∣ner that he brought from Cadiz. Clotaldo returned answer, that her Majesties pleasure should most willingly bee o∣beyed. The Gentleman having delivered his message, and received his answer, went his way, leaving the hearts of all the whole house full of passion, perturbations, and feares.

Aye me (sayd the Ladie Catalina) if it bee come to the Queenes knowledge that I have bred up this Childe in the Christian religion; and shall from thence inferre that all we of this Familie are Christians. Besides, if the Queene shall aske her what she hath learned in eight yeares since that she was our prisoner; what can the poore harmlesse soule answer, which shall not (notwithstanding all her discretion) condemne us?

Which Isabella hearing, spake thus unto her.

Let not (deare Ladie) this feare give you any trouble at all; for my trust is in God that he will put words into my mouth at that instant, out of his Divine Mercie towards me; that shall not onely not condemne you, but that shall much redound to your good.

Ricaredo was much startled therewith, as divining ther∣by some ill successe. Clotaldo sought out meane•… that might Page  216 give some courage to his great feare, but found none, save in the great confidence which he had in God, and in the wisedome of Isabella; who earnestly entreated her, that by all the wayes she possibly could devise, she should excuse her condemning of them to be Christians; for though in spirit they were readie to receive Martyrdome; yet not∣withstanding, the flesh was weake, and were loth to drinke of that bitter cup.

Not once, but often Isabella assured them to rest assu∣red, that for her cause, or any default of hers, that should not succeed which they feared and suspected. For albeit she then knew not what answer to make to those Interro∣gatories and questions, which in such a case as this might be put unto her; yet had she such a lively and assured hope that she should answer thereunto in such sort (as she had at other times told them) that her answers should rather doe them good then hurt.

They discoursed that night on many things, especially on this particular; that if the Queene had knowne that they were Christians, shee would not have sent them so milde a message; whence they might inferre, that shee was onely desirous to see Isabella, whose unequalled beau∣tie and abilitie had come to her eares, and to those of the Court, as it did to all those of the Citie. But because they had not before this presented her unto her Majestie, they found themselves faulty; of which fault, they thought good to excuse themselves, by saying; that from that very instant that she came into his power, he had made choice of her, and as it were marked her out for to be the wife of of his Sonne Ricaredo. But in this too, they likewise •…ound themselves faultie, for having made such a match without her Majesties leave, and licence; howbeit this fault did not seeme unto them worthy of any great punishment. With this they comforted themselves, and agreed amongst themselves by a joynt consent, that Isabella should not goe meanely clad to Court, but like a Bride, since that shee Page  217 was the Spouse of his Sonne Ricaredo.

Being thus resolved, the next day they apparrelled Isa∣bella after the Spanish fashion; in a gowne of green Sattin cut upon cloth of gold, embroydered with Esses of pearles, wearing a great chaine of most rich orient pearles about her necke, having a hatband of Diamonds, and a Fanne in her hand, after the manner of your Spanish Ladies. Her haires of her head, which were full and long, and of a bright pleasing colour, sowen, and interwoven with Diamonds, and Pearles, did serve her instead of a coyfe. With this most rich dressing and lively disposition, and admirable beautie, She shewed her selfe that day in Mun∣dolin, riding in a faire Caroch, carrying along with her, ta∣ken by so beautifull a sight, the soules and eyes of as many as looked on her. There were with her in the same Caroch, Clotaldo and his wife, and Ricaredo, and on horse back many noble gentlemen of their kindred, and Alliance. All this honour Clotaldo was willing to do his Prisoner, for to ob∣liege the Queene to use her as the Spouse of his Son.

Being come now to the Court, and brought into the Chamber of Presence where the Queene was, Isabella ente∣red thereinto; presenting there the fayrest show which can fall within the compasse of imagination. The roome was large and spacious, and the traine that came with her had not gone above two steps forward, but they stood stil; and Isabella alone by her selfe, advanced her selfe towards the State where the Queene sate; and being thus alone, she seemed to appeare just like that starre, or exhalation, which by the region of fire is wont to move it selfe in a cleare and quiet night; or like unto a ray, or beame of the Sunne; which at the opening of the day discovers it selfe betweene two mountaines. All this did she seeme to bee, or rather like a Commet which did prognosticate the in∣flaming and setting on fire many of those soules that were present, which love had throughly heated, if not burned with the rayes of those resplendant sunnes of beautifull Page  218 Isabella, who full of humilitie, and courtesie, made her approaches by degrees, addressing her self to kneele down before the Queene, and then after a short pausing said thus unto her. May it please your most excellent Majestie, so far forth to honour this your servant, that she may kisse your royall hand; so shall I ever hereafter hold my selfe to be a Ladie, since that I have beene so happie, as to come to see your greatnesse.

The Queene continued looking upon her a good while, without speaking one word; it seeming unto her (as she afterwards told a great Ladie of her Bed-chamber) that shee had a starrified heaven before her; whose starres were those many Pearles, and Diamonds which Isabella bare about her. Her fayre face, and eyes were the Sunne and Moone; and take all together in the whole peece, shee was a new wonder of beautie. The Ladies that attended about the Queens Person, wished that they had beene all eyes, that there might not remaine any thing in, or about Isabella, which they might not behold and view at full. Some commended the quicknesse of her eyes, some the colour of her face, and purenesse of com∣plexion; some the propernesse of her body, and some the sweetnes of her speech. And some likewise, who out of meere envie, said; the Spaniard is a very handsome gentle∣woman, but her habite and dressing seemeth very strange, and out of fashion. After some little suspension, the Queene causing Isabella to rise up, she said unto her; speake (pretty Mayd) unto mee in Spanish, for I understand it well, and shall take much pleasure therein. And turning her selfe to∣wards Clotaldo, she sayd unto him.

Clotaldo, you have done Vs wrong, in keeping this trea∣sure so long concealed from Vs; but it is such, and so rich, that it hath moved you to covetousnesse; you are bound to restore it unto Vs, for by right it is Ours, and properly belongeth unto Vs.

Madam (answered Clotaldo) it is true which your Page  219 Majestie sayth; I confesse my fault, if it bee a fault to have kept this treasure, that it might be preserved in that perfection, as was fitting to appeare in your Majesties Pre∣sence. And now that it is here before your eye, I thought to have much improved it, by craving your Majesties leave that Isabella might be the Spouse of my Sonne Ricaredo, and to give your most excellent Majestie in these two, all that I am able to give you.

Her very name gives Vs very good content (replied the Queene) there could nothing have beene more wanting save the name of Isabella the Spanyard, to take off something from that perfection which is in her. But how is it (Clo∣taldo) that without Our leave you have promised her to your Sonne?

It is true Madam (answered Clotaldo) I have made him a promise of her, but it was upon the confidence that the many and notable services which my selfe, and my Aun∣cestours have done this Crowne, might obtaine of your Majestie other more difficult favours, then this of your leave; and the rather, for that my Sonne is not yet espoused unto her.

Neither shall he (sayd the Queene) Marry Isabella, till he by himselfe, and in his owne person shall deserve her. Our meaning is, that I will not that either your owne or your Auncestors services, shall any whit benefit him him in this particular; but that hee in his owne person shall dispose himselfe to serve mee, and for to merit for himselfe, and by his owne prowesse, this sweet pledge, whom we e∣steeme and reckon of as if she were our owne Daughter.

Isabella had scarce heard this last word delivered, when humbling her selfe againe on her knees before the Queene, shee spake unto her in the Spanish tongue, to this effect.

As graces, which brings such graces with them (most noble Queene) are rather to be accounted happinesse, then misfortunes. And since that your Majestie hath beene pleased to grace me with the name of Daughter upon so Page  220 good a pledge; what ill can I feare? or what good may I not hope for?

Looke what Isabella uttered, came from her so gracefully, and so wittingly, that the Queen stood extreamely affected towards her; and commanded that shee should remaine at Court in her service; and recommended her to a great Ladie, the chiefest amongst those of her Bed-chamber, that shee might trayne her up according to the Court fashion.

Ricaredo, who saw that his life was taken away, in taking away Isabella, was readie almost to have lost his wits; and therefore though overtaken with a tumbling and sudden passion of heart, he went and fell upon his knees before the Queen, and sayd unto her.

That I may serve your Majestie, I need not to be incited thereunto by any other rewards, then by those which my fore-fathers, and Auncestours have gotten by serving their Kings. But since that it is your Maiesties pleasure that I should serve you with good desires, and pretensions; I would gladly know, in what kinde, and in what employ∣ment I may manifest that I cumply; with that obligation which I owe unto your Maiestie, and put my selfe to that which you shall impose upon me.

I have two Ships royall (answered the Queene) ready to put forth to Sea, whereof I have made Generall the Baron of Lansae, of one of these I make you Captaine, him Admirall, and you Vice-Admirall. For the bloud from whence you come, and runneth in your veines, doth as∣sure mee that you will supply the defect of your yeares; and consider well the favour which wee doe you, since that therein I give you occasion, that corresponding with that which you are, and doing things answerable to the race from whence you come; by serving your Queene, you may show the worth of your noble disposition, and of your person; and you shall receive thereby the greatest reward, which in your opinion you can wish or desire. Page  221 I my selfe will be Isabella's Guard, though she give Vs ma∣nifest tokens, that her owne honestie will be her safest and surest guard. God blesse you in your Voyage; and since that you go•…hence deepely (as I imagine) in love, I pro∣mise great matters unto my selfe of your noble exploits. Happy shall that King that goes to warre bee, who shall have in his Armie ten thousand Souldiers that are in love, for they will live in hope that the reward of their victories, shall be the enioying of their best beloved. Rise up Rica∣redo, and bethinke your selfe if you will or have any thing to say to Isabella, for to morrow you must be gon.

Ricaredo kissed the Queenes hand, humbly thanking her, and highly esteeming the favour which she did him, and presently went from her to Isabella, and would feigne have spoken unto her, but could not, for love and grief had knit such a knot in his throat, and so tied his tongue, that had his life layen upon it, hee could not utter one word. But the water stood in his eies, and were so brimme-full, that they ranne over, and silently trickled downe his cheekes which he thought to dissemble and smother them, all that hee possibly could; yet notwithstanding could hee not hide them from the eyes of the Queene, and therefore she said unto him.

Thinke it no shame Ricaredo to weepe, neither valew your selfe the lesse, for having given at this your farewell such tender demonstrations of your heart. For it is one thing to fight with your enemies, and another thing to take your leave of her you love. Isabella, embrace Ricaredo, and give him your benediction, for his excessive sor∣row, and loathnesse to leave you, doth very well de∣serve it.

Isabella, who stood amazed and astonished to see Rica∣redo's tender heartednesse, and how truely he did grieve, and all for her sake, whom she loved as her Husband; did not understand what the Queene had commanded her, but began to shed teares; so without thinking what Page  222 she did, and stood so still, and without any motion, that it seemed not to be a living soule, but a Statua of Alablaster that wept.

The affections of these two true and tender lovers, made the standers by to melt likewise into teares. And so Rica∣redo without speaking a word to Isabella, or Isabella to him, they turned each from other, and Clotaldo, and they that came with him, doing reverence to the Queene, went out of the Presence full of compassion, discontent, and teares.

Isabella now remained like a poore Orphane, comming from the buriall of her Father and Mother, and as full now of feare, as before of griefe; least that her new Ladie to whom shee was recommended, would make her to change those manners and customes wherein she had been formerly bred up.

In conclusion, there shee remained, and within two daies after Ricaredo hoysed sayle, and put forth to Sea, bea∣ten amongst many other with this thought, that he must do some notable peece of service, that might intitle him the deserver of Isabella.

But in conclusion, he besought Heaven to be propitious unto him, that such occasions might be offered unto him; wherein by shewing himselfe valiant, hee might cumply with the dutie of a Christian, leaving the Queene satisfied, and Isabella deserved.

Sixe daies these two Shippes sailed with a prosperous winde, shaping their course for the Tercera Islands; a place where never are wanting, either Ships of Portugal, from the East-Indies, or some that come thither from the West-Indies. And at sixe daies end there arose such a crosse∣winde full in the teeth of them; and continued so long and so strong, that without suffering them to reach the Islands, they were inforced to make for Spaine; neere unto whose Coast, at the mouth of the Streight of Gihraltar, they descried three Ships; the one a very tall and goodly Ship, and the other two much lesse. Page  223 Ricaredo's Ship made up to that which was Admirall, for to know of his Generall, whether or no he would set up∣on those three Ships which they had descried. But before that he came up unto them; he might discerne that upon the toppe of the maine mast, there was hung out a blacke streamer, and comming a little neerer, he might hear Fifes, and Trumpets sounding faintly, and hoarsely; cleare and apparant signes that the Generall was dead, or some other principall person of the Shippe. At last comming within hearing, that they might speake one to another, which they had not done since their first putting forth; they might heare them from out the Admirall call out aloud un∣to them, to have the Vice-Admirall Ricaredo to come a∣boord their Ship, because the Generall the night before died of an Appoplexie.

All upon this newes were very sad, save Ricaredo,, who was inwardly glad, not for the losse of his Generall, but to see that hee was left at libertie, and might freely com∣mand both Shippes; for so was it ordered by the Queene, that the Generall miscarrying, Ricaredo should succeed in his roome. Who presently went aboord the Admirall, where he found some that mourn'd for their dead General, and others that rejoyced with him that was now living. In a word, both the one and the other presently yeelded him obedience, and with short ceremonies cry'd him up for their Generall; two of those three Shippes which they had discovered not giving leave for greater, which going aloofe from the great Shippe, made up to the two Ships. They streight knew them to be Gallies, and Turkish Gal∣lies, by the halfe Moones which they bare in their flagges, which gave Ricaredo great contentment; it seeming unto him, that that prize if Heaven should grant it him, would be of great benefit.

The Turkish Gallies came to know the Northern ships, who did not carry the Armes of the Island in their flagges, but of Spaine, for to deceive those that should chance to Page  224 descrie them, and might take them to be Shippes of Pira∣cie. The Turkes thought they had beene Shippes that had come from the Indies, wasted and spent with their long voyage, and that they would quickly yeeld and be taken. Wherupon, they came incroaching by little and little upon them, thinking presently to boord them, and Ricaredo suffered them to come neerer and neerer unto him, till he had them in command of his Ordnance, and then let flie at them, and giving them a broad side, discharged so luc∣kily, and with such furie, that he shot one of the Gallies thorow, and thorow; so that one halfe of it lay all open, and naked, which forced them to flie, and make the best shift they could for to escape boording. The other Gal∣lie seeing it's fellowes ill successe, made away in all haste, and strove to put her selfe under the side of the great Ship. But Ricaredo, who had Shippes that were light laden, and were quicke and nimble; and such excellent saylers, that they would turne and winde, and come off and on, as if they had beene plied with Oares; commanded them to charge the Ordnance anew, chasing them even to the ship, showring upon them a world of shot. They of the o∣pened Gallie, as soone as they came to the ship, forsooke their Galley, and with all possible haste endeavoured to get into the ship. Which being perceived by Ricaredo, and that the sound Gallie imyloyed it selfe in relieving the o∣ther▪ he sets upon her with both his ships, and without giving her leave to tacke about, or to make any use of her Oares, he did put her to that streight and exigent, that the Turkes likewise that were in her, were forced to flee for refuge to the ship, not with any hope to defend themselves therein, or to stand it out in fight, but for to escape for the present with their lives. The Christians wherewith those Gallies were man'd, tearing up their bankes, and breaking their chaines, intermingled with the Turkes, sought to recover their ship; and as they were clambring up by the side of her, with musket shot from the ships, they went Page  225 shooting at them, as at a marke; but Ricaredo gave order that they should shoot onely at the Turkes, and spare the Christians. Thus were all the Turkes almost slaine; and they who entered the shippe with the Christians, for they were mingled one amongst another, making use of their weapons, were cut in peeces. For the force of the valiant when they begin to fall, must yeeld to the weakenesse of those that are rising. And therefore the Christians take∣ing heart, layed about them with such courage and mettle, that they did wonders for the working of their libertie; thinking all this while that those Northerne ships were Spanish.

In conclusion, the Christians having in a manner cut all the Turkes throates, some Spanyards shewed themselves up∣on the Decke, and called out a loud unto those whom they supposed to bee Spanyards, that they would come aboord them, and enjoy the reward of their victorie. Ricaredo asked them in Spanish what shippe that was? they told him that shee was a Portugal come from the East-Indies laden with spices, and as many Pearles, and Diamonds, as were worth a Million, and that by a storme they were driven upon that Coast, all rent and torne, and without any Ordnance, for the foulenesse of the weather, and high working of the Sea, inforced them to throw it over-boord. That their men were most of them sicke, and almost dead of thirst, and hunger; and that those two Gallies which were belonging to the Pi∣rate A•…pantemuam had taken her but the day before, without making any defence at all. And that (as it was told them) because they were not able to car∣rie so great a quantitie of riches in those two small Vessels; they towed her along, with purpose to put her into the River of Larache, which was neere there∣unto.

Ricaredo returned them answere, that if they conceived that those his two Shippes were Spanish, they were Page  226 deceived, for they were nothing lesse, but ships belonging to the Queene of the Northern Island. Which newes gave those that heard it, occasion of feare, and sorrow; i∣magining (and not without reason,) that they were fallen out of one net into another. But Ricardo told them that they should receive no harme, and that they should rest assured of their libertie, on condition that they should not put themselves upon their defence. Nor is it possible for us (replied they) so to doe; for (as wee formerly told you) this Shippe hath no Ordnance, nor wee any of∣fensive Armes; and therefore wee must of force whe∣ther wee will or no, have recourse to the gentile and noble disposition of your Generall, and the liberalitie and courtesie which hee shall use towards us; since that it is meet and just that hee who hath freed us from the insufferable captivitie of the Turkes, should reape the reward and benefit thereof, and shall bee famoused of all those to whose eares the newes shall come, of this memorable victorie, and of his kinde usage towardes them.

These words of the Spanyard did not found ill in Ri∣caredo's eares; and therefore calling those of his shippe to a councell, hee demanded of them how hee might send all the Christians to Spaine, without putting them∣selves in danger of any simister successe; if being so many as they were, they should take courage unto them for to rise up against them? Some were of opinion, that hee should passe them one by one to his owne Shippe, and clapping them under hatches, kill them man after man; and so they might easily and without any noyse kill them all, and carry the great Shippe along with them to 〈◊〉 without any further feare or care taking. But to this Ricaredo thus replied.

Since that God hath done us this so great a favour, in giving us such great riches, I will not require Page  227 him with a cruell and unthankefull minde; nor is it meete that that which I may remedie by industry, I should reme∣die it by the sword. And therefore, I for my part am of opinion, that no Christian should dye the death. Not be∣cause I wish them so well, but because I wish well to my selfe, and would that this dayes noble action, neither to me, nor to you, should mingle the name of valiant, with the sir-name of cruell; for crueltie did never sort well with valour. That which is to bee done, is this; that all the Ordnance of one of these our Shippes, be put into the great Portugal Ship, without leaving the Ship any Armes, or any other thing, save sufficient victuall. And so man∣ning that Ship with our men, we will carry it home, and the Spaniards goe in the other to Spaine.

None durst contradict that which Ricaredo had pro∣pounded, and some held him to bee valiant, magnani∣mous, and of good understanding and judgement; and others in their hearts, to be more courteous then he ought to have beene,

Ricaredo then having resolved on this course, he put 50▪ Muskatiers into the Portugal Ship all readie fitted and furni∣shed, their Peeces charged with shot, and their matches burning in their cockes. He found in the Ship well neere 300. persons, with those that had escaped out of the gal∣lies. He presently called for their Cocket, or bill of lading; and the same person who at first spake to him from the Decke made him answer; that the Turkish Pirate had al∣readie taken their Cocket from them, and that it was drow∣ned with him. Hee did instantly put his pully in order, and bringing his lesser vessell and lashing it close to the side of the great Ship with wonderfull celeritie, and with the helpe of strong ropes, they hoysed all their Ordnance with their Carriages, out of the lesser into the greater Ship.

This being done, hee forthwith made a short speech to the Christians; he commanded them to goe into the Ship Page  228 that was now disincumbred, where they should finde good store of victuall for more then a moneth, and more mouthes then they had. And as they went Imbarquing themselves, he gave to every one of them foure Spanish Pi∣stolets, which he caused to be brought from his owne Ship, for to relieve in part their necessitie when they came on land; which was so neere, that from thence they might kenne the high mountains of Avila, and Calpe. All of them gave him infinite thankes for the favour he had done them; and the last that went to embarque himselfe, was he who had beene the mouth of the rest, who said unto Ricaredo.

Most valiant sir, I should hold it a happines for me, a∣midst these my misfortunes, and the greater of the two; that you would rather carry me along with you to Mundolin, then send me into Spaine. For albeit that it be my Countrey, and that it is not above sixe dayes since I left it, yet shall I not finde any thing therein which will not minister occa∣sions unto mee of reviving my former sorrowes, and soli∣tudes. I would have you to know (noble sir) that in the losse of Cadiz, which is now some 15. yeares since, I lost a Daughter which some of the Conquerours carried away into their owne Countrey; and with her, I lost the com∣fort of my old age, and the light of mine eies, which since they might not see her, have never seene that thing which could be pleasing unto them. The great discontentment wherein her losse left mee, together with that of my wealth, which likewise was taken from me; brought me to that low ebbe, that I neither would, nor could any more exercise the trade of Merchandize, whose great dealings in that kinde, made me in the opinion of the world, held to be the richest Merchant in all that Citie. And indeed so I was, for besides my credit, which would passe for many hundered thousands of crownes, the wealth that I had within the doores of mine owne house, was more then fifty thousand Duckets. All which I lost, yet had I lost nothing, so as I had not lost my Daughter. After this gene∣rall Page  229 misfortune, and so particularly mine; necessitie (the more to vexe me) set upon me, never ceasing to give mee over, till such time as not being able any longer to resist her; my Wife and I (which is that sorrowfull woman that sits there) resolved to goe for the Indies, the common refuge of poore Gentlemen; and having embarqued our selves but sixe dayes since in a ship of Advise, we had no sooner put out of Cadiz, but that those two Vessells of the Pirates, tooke our shippe, and wee become their slaves. Whereupon our miserie was renewed, and our misfortune confirmed. And it had beene greater, had not the Pirates taken that shippe of Portugal, who entertained them so long, till that succeeded which you have seene.

Ricaredo then asked him, what was his daughters name?

He answered, Isabella.

With this Ricaredo ceased to be confirmed further in that which before he suspected; which was, that he who re∣counted this unto him, was his beloved Isabella's Father; and without giving him any tydings of her, he told him, that very willingly hee would carry him and his Wife to Mundolin, where happily they might heare some newes of that which they so much desired. He made them presently go aboord his own ship, leaving Marriners and souldiers sufficient in that of Portugal.

That night they hoysed sayle, and set themselves to get off from the coast of Spaine; and for that in the ship wher∣in were the freed Captives, there were likewise 20 Turks, whom Ricaredo had also set at libertie; for to shew, that more out of his owne noble disposition, and generous minde, he had dealt so graciously with them, then infor∣ced by that love which he bare to the Christians; hee en∣treated the Spanyards at their parting, that upon the first oc∣casion that should offer it selfe, they should set the Turkes at liberty, wherein they •…hould shew themselves thanke∣full unto him.

The winde, which gave good tokens of being large, Page  230 and prosperous, began to bee very much calmer, which calme did stir up a great tempest of feare in the Marriners and Souldiers; who blamed Ricaredo, and his bounty, not sticking to tell him, that they whom hee had freed, might give advise of their successe in Spaine; and that if happily they should have their Galeons lying there in the Haven, they might put forth to Sea in search of them, and so put them to a narrow streight, and in danger of losing, toge∣ther with their lives, all that Treasure which they had got.

Ricaredo knew very wel that they had reason on their side, but overcomming all of them with good words, he made them quiet; but that which did most quiet them, was the winde which returned againe to re-infresh it selfe in such sort, that having as fayre a gale as could blow in the skie, they clapt on all their sayles, without having need to strike any one of them, or but in the least manner to restraine them; within Nine dayes they came within sight of Mundolin. And when they were returned home thus vi∣ctorious, there were thirty wanting of those that went that Voyage.

Ricaredo would not enter the River with tokens of joy, by reason of the death of his Generall; and therefore mix∣ed his joyfull, with sorrowfull signes. One while the Trumpets sounding loud, and shrill; and another while low, and hoarse; one while the Drummes did beat lively, and the Flutes goe merrily, and another while dead, and softly, answering each other with mournefull and lamen∣table notes. On one of the Cages of the shippe hung the contrary way, a flagge embroydered with halfe Moones; and on another, a long streamer of blacke Taffata, whose points did mocke the water.

In conclusion, with these and the like contrary extreams, they entered the River with their •…wn shippe, because the other drew so much water, that the River could not beare her, and therefore lay at anchor in the Sea.

Page  231Th•…se such contrary signes and tokens, held a world of people in suspence, who beheld them from each side of the shoare. They knew very well by some Armes and Coats in their Colours, that that lesser shippe was the Ad∣mirall wherein the Lord of Lansac went; but they could not guesse how that other shippe should come to be chan∣ged for that great vast shippe which lay at Sea. But they were quickly put out of this doubt, by Ricaredo's leaping out of his b•…at o•… shoare in rich and resplendent Armes, like a Souldier; who a foot, without staying for any other company, attended onely with the innumerable vulgar that followed him; he went directly to the Court, where the Queene being in a Gallerie, stood expecting the newes should be brought her of her ships.

There was▪ besides many other Ladies with the Queen, Isabella▪ apparelled after the Island fashion, though with a little touch of the Spanish. Before that Ricaredo came, there came another, who told the Queene that Ricaredo was come. Isabella hearing the name of Ricaredo, began to change colour, and seemed to bee somewhat troubled, and in that very instant did feare and hope, both the evill and good successe of his comming.

Ricaredo was •…ll of stature, a gentleman, and well pro∣portioned, and for that hee came Armed with his Gor∣get, Corsele•…, and Powderns, all Millaine worke, richly gilded and ingraven, it became him extreamely well▪ and did please the eyes of the beholders. He had no Caske on his head, but abroad 〈◊〉 hat of a Lyon colour, with a great large feather, diversified with a few different colours; abroad shortf•…ord by his side, a very rich girdle and hun∣gers, a•…d his breeches somewhat large, and full, like unto those of the S•…zzers.

Being thus ac•…utered, what with the goodlinesse of his p•…sence, and statelinesse of his gate; some were so taken their with, that they compared him to M•…s the god of Warre; 〈◊◊◊〉 taken with the beautifulnesse of his Page  232 countenance compared him to Venus, who for to put a jeast upon Mars, had put this disguise upon him. In con∣clusion, he came before the Queene, and humbling him∣selfe on his knee, he sayd unto her.

Most renowned, and redoubted Soveraigne, in the strength of your good fortune, and in the consecution of my desire; after that our Generall the Lord of Lansac was dead of an Apoplexie, I succeeding in his place (thankes be rendered therefore to your Majestie) I lighted by chance on two Turkish gallies, which went towing away that great shippe which I have now brought home, and lyes not far off safe in the roade. I did set upon them, your Souldiers fought as they alwaies use to do, very manfully; we sunck both the Turkish Vessells, and in one of ours, I gave in your Majesties royall name libertie to the Christians, which escaped out of the hands of the Turkes. Onely I brought along with me one man, and a woman, both Spanyards; who out of their owne liking and election, were wonderfully desirous to come with me into our Island, that they might see the greatnesse of your Maje∣sties Person, and Court. That shippe which is now yours, is a Portugal, one of those great Carricks which come from the East-Indies, the which by a storme came to fall into the power of the Turkes; who with little trouble, or to say better, none at all, made her to yeeld her selfe unto them; and as I am informed by some of those Portugals that came in her, she is worth above a Million in gold, and Spice, and other rich Merchandize of Pearles, and Diamonds, which are in her, whereof nothing hath hitherto beene toucht, neither did the Turkes come to finger any thing therein; because Heaven hath dedicated i•… wholy unto you, and I have commanded it to bee kept and reserved whole and entire for your Majestie▪ which with one jew∣ell onely that your Majestie shall be pleased to bestow up∣on mee, I shall remaine indebted for ten such other ships. Which jewell your Majestie hath alreadie promised mee, Page  233 which is, my good Isabella. With her I shall rest rich, and rewarded; not onely for this service that I have done your Ma•…estie, but for many other which I meane to doe, for to pay some part of that great, if not infinite worth, which in this jewell your Majestie offereth me.

Arise Ricaredo (replied the Queene) and beleeve mee, that if I should upon a price give you Isabella according to that valew I esteeme her at, you would never bee able to pay it, neither with that which you have brought home in this shippe, nor with all that treasure which re∣maineth in the Indies. Well, I will give her you, because I made you a promise of her, and because she is worthy of you, and you of her, your valour onely doth deserve her. And if you have kept those jewells of the Shippe for mee▪ I have likewise kept this your jewell for you. And albeit it may seeme unto you that I have not done any great mat•…er for you, in returning you that which is your owne▪ yet I know that I doe you an especiall favour therein; for those pledges that are bought by our desires, and have their estemation and value in the soule of the buyer, they are worth a World, there being no price that can countervaile it. Isabella is yours, there shee is; and when you will your selfe, you may take possession of her, and I beleeve with her good liking and content; for shee is discreet, and knowes well how to weigh the friendshippe which you doe her, for I will not style it by the name of favour, but friendshippe; for I will take that name onely upon mee of doing favours. Goe, and take your ease, and come and waite upon Vs to morrow, and then will I more particularly heare you relate unto Vs what you did in this▪ Voyage, and how valiantly you beha∣ved yourselfe. And bring those two with you, who you say were so willing to come and see Vs, that We may than•… them for their love.

Ricaredo thanked her Majesty for the many favours she had Page  234 done him. And then the Queen presently left the Gallerie, and retyred her selfe. And the Ladies came round about Ricaredo; and one of them which held great love and friend∣ship with Isabella▪ called the Ladie Tansi; accounted the dis∣creetest, the wittiest, and pleasantest amongst them, sayd unto Ricaredo, what meanes this Ricaredo? what Armes are these? Did you happily imagine that you came to fight with your enemies? beleeve mee, wee all here are your friends, unlesse it be Isabella; who for that she is a Spanyard, is bound not to heare you any good will. Sure (my La∣die Tansi) shee beares mee •…me; for since that she hath mee in her remembrance (sayd Ricaredo) I know that her good will is towardes mee; for the foulnesse of being unthankefull, cannot have the least footing in her so great worth, understanding, and incomparable beautie.

Whereunto Isabella replied, Signior Ricaredo, since that I am to bee yours, it is in your power to take all satis∣faction whatsoever you will of me, that I may make you some small requitall of those undeserved praises which you have given me, and of those further favours which you intend to doe me.

These and other the like honest discour•…ngs, Ricaredo passed with Isabella, and with the rest of the Ladies; a∣mongst which, there was •… prettie little Damosell, young both in growth, and yeares, who did nothing but gaze upon Ricaredo all the while hee was there; shee lifted up his •…ases, to see if hee had any thing un∣der them; shee tampered with his sword, and in a Childish simplicitie, would make his glittering Armour her looking Glasse, comming very neere thinking to see her face in them. And when shee went away from him▪ turning her selfe to the Ladies, shee sayd; Now (Ladies) I assure you, I imagine that War is a most beautifull thing; since that even amongst Women ar∣•… m•…n looke lovely. And •…ow can they otherwise Page  235 chuse? (replied the Ladie Tansi) if not, looke upon Ricaredo, who lookes like the Sunne, come downe from Heaven on earth, and in that habite goes walking up and downe amongst us. They all of them laughed at the little Maydes simplicitie, and no lesse at the ridiculous Roda∣mantado of the Ladie Tansi. And some murmurers were not wanting, who held it an impertinencie, that Ri∣caredo should come armed to Court. Though other some sought as much to excuse him, saying; that as a Souldier hee might doe it, for to show his braverie and gallantrie.

Ricaredo was by his Parents, friends, kinsfolke, and ac∣quaintance received, with lively expressions of singular love and affection. And that night there were made gene∣rall bonfires throughout Mundolin, and other publick tokens of their joy. The father and mother of Isabella were alreadie in Clotaldo's house, whom Ricaredo had acquainted who they were; but entreated his Parents that they might not have any the least notice given them of Isabella, till that hee him∣selfe should give it them; the like advise was given to all the servants of the house.

That very night, accompanied with many boats, bar∣ges, and barques, and with no fewer eyes to looke on them. The great Ship began to discharge her lading, which in eight dayes could not bee disburthened of her Pepper, and other rich Merchandize which she had in her bulke. The next day after Ricaredo went to Court, carrying with him the father and mother of Isabella, both of them being newly clad after the fashion of Mundolin, telling them that the Queene desired to see them.

They came all of them where the Queene was sitting a∣midst her Ladies expecting Ricaredo, whom she was wil∣ling to grace and favour, by placing Isabella next to her, having on the same attyre and dressing which shee wore when shee came first to the Court; appearing therein no lesse beautifull now, then shee did th•… Page  236 The Parents of Isabella wer strucken with admiration and wonder, to see so much greatnesse, and braverie met toge∣ther. They setled their eyes on Isabella, but did not know her, though their hearts (presagers of that good which was so neere them) began to leape in their bosomes; not out of any sudden passion that might cause sorrow or grief in them, but out of I know not what pleasure and con∣tentment, which they could not hit upon to understand aright.

The Queene would not suffer Ricaredo to continue knee∣ling before her, but made him rise, and willed him to sit downe in a velvet chayre, which was by her appointment set there for that purpose; an unusuall favour, considering the stately condition of the Queene. And one whispered in anothers •…are, Ricaredo sits not on the chayre which was brought him, but on the Pepper which hee brought in. Another say's unto him that stood by him; now is that old Proverbe verified, Que dadivas, que brantan pennas, that gifts will breake through stone walls; for those that Ricaredo hath given her Majestie, hath softned and mollified our Queens hard heart. Another tells his next fellow, now that hee is well seated, more hands then two must go to it to heave him out.

In conclusion, from that grace and honour which the Queene was pleased to doe Ricaredo; envie tooke occasion to grow in many of those Courtiers breasts, who were eye-witnesses of this her Majesties extraordinary favour extended towards him. For there is not that favour which a Prince confers on his Favourite, which is not a speare that pierceth the heart of the envious.

The Queene was desirous to know from Ricaredo, point by point, how that fight passed with the Turkish Pirates Gallies; hee recounted it a new, attributing the victorie to God, and the valour of his Souldiers; endearing the ser∣vices of them all joyntly▪ and particularizing the valiant acts of some of them, who had put themselves most for∣ward, Page  237 and done her Majestie very notable service; wher∣hee oblieged the Queene to doe all of them favours, and in particular, those particular persons.

And when he began to speake of the libertie which in her Maiesties name he had given the Turkes, and Christians, hee sayd unto her. That Woman, and that Man who stand there (pointing to Isabella's Parents) are they whom yesterday I told your Maiestie, who out of the great de∣sire which they had to see your greatnesse, and magnifi∣cence; did so earnestly entreate mee that I would bring them along with mee. They are of Cadiz, and by that which they have told me, and by that likewise which I have seene and observed in them, I know that they are of espe∣ciall ranke, and worth.

The Queene commanded them that they should draw neere unto her; Isabella lifted up her eyes that shee might see these who sayd they were Spainyards, and more particu∣larly of Cadiz; out of a desire that she had to learne if hap∣pily they knew her Parents. And just as Isabella lifted up her eyes, her Mother fixed hers upon her, and stood still a while, that she might view and behold her the more at∣tentively. And on the other side there began to be awake∣ned in Isabella's memorie, some certaine confused notions, which gave her to understand, that heretofore she had seen that Woman which stood before her. Her Father was in the like confusion, without daring to determine to give credit to that truth which his eyes represented un∣to him.

Ricaredo was very attentive to see and observe the affecti∣ons and motions of these three doubtfull and perplexed soules, which were so confounded and amazed, between the yea and nay of knowing each other. The Queen tooke notice of both their suspensions, as also of Isabella's distra∣ctions, by her inter-while sweatings, by her changing colour, and by her lifting up her hand to order and com∣pose her •…ayre.

Page  238Isabella thus troubled, not knowing well what to thinke of it, did earnestly wish that shee would speake, whom she imagined might be her Mother; for perad venture her eares would put her out of that doubt whereinto her eies had put her. The Queene willed Isabella that she should speake. Spainish to that woman, and that man; and they should tell her what was the cause that moved them not to accept and enioy that their libertie which Ricaredo had given them; being that libertie is a thing above all other, the dearest and best beloved, not onely of reasonable crea∣tures, but of those that want it. All this Isabella deman∣ded of her Mother, who without returning her any one word, suddenly, and halfe stumbling for haste, came un∣to Isabella; and without regarding respect, feare, or the Courtiers looking on her, with her hand she lifted up Isa∣bella's right eare, and having there discovered a black mole; which marke confirmed her suspition, and plainely per∣ceiving that it was her Daughter Isabella, she could no lon∣ger containe her selfe, but embracing her, cried out aloud, saying; Oh Daughter of my heart! Oh deare pledge of my soule! and not being able to utter a word more; her speech fayling, she fainted and fell into a swound in Isa∣bella's armes.

Her Father no lesse tender then prudent, gave manifest signes how sensible he was of all this; but with no other words then a silent shedding of teares, which softly trick∣ling downe bedewed both his cheekes, and beard. Isabella layd her face to that of her Mother, and turning her eyes towards her Father, in such a kinde of manner looked on him, that thereby shee gave him to understand the pleasure and contentment her soule tooke in seeing them there.

The Queene wondering at this so rare and strange an accident, sayd to Ricaredo; I conceive (Ricaredo) that this interview was thus preordered in your discretion; but I must tell you, I know not whether you did well in so Page  239 doing. For we see by experience, that a sudden joy as soon kills, as a sudden sorrow. And having said this, she turned her selfe to Isabella, and tooke her apart from her Mother, who having a little water sprinkled in her face, came again to her selfe; and calling her wits a little better about her, humbling her selfe on her knees before the Queene, she•… sayd unto her.

I beseech your Majestie to pardon my boldnes, for it is no mervaile that I should forget my selfe, and lose my sen∣ces, with the overmuch joy I have received in the finding out this my beloved pledge.

The Queene made answer, that she had a great deale of reason on her side (making use of an Interpreter that she might the better understand her.)

Isabella came in this manner (as I told you before) to the knowledge of her Parents, and her Parents of her; whom the Queene commanded to reside in the Court, to the end that they might with the better leisure, both see, and talke with their Daughter, and rejoyce and make merry with her. Wherewith Ricaredo was wonderfull well pleased, and craved a new of the Queene, that she would be pleased to make good her promise, by bestowing Isabella upon him, in case hee did deserve her; and if not, hee humbly be∣sought her Majestie, that shee would bee pleased present∣ly to put him upon some other employment, that might make himselfe worthie of obtaining that which he so ear∣nestly desired.

The Queene understood very well, that Ricaredo rested well satisfied of himselfe, and of his great valour; inso∣much that there needed not onely new proofes for to qua∣lifie him. And therefore told him, that foure dayes from that present being fully ended, she would deliver Isabella unto him, doing both of them all the grace and honour she possible could. Vpon this answer, Ricaredo tooke his leave, being the most joyfull, and most contented 〈◊〉 i•… the world; transported with that neere 〈◊〉 which 〈◊〉 Page  240 now had of having Isabella in his power, without any feare of losing her, which is the last and utmost desire of Lovers.

Time ranne, but not with that light and nimble foot as hee wished. For they who live by the hope of pro∣mise to come; doe evermore imagine, that time doth not flye with wings swift enough, but that he hath lead tyed to his heeles, and treads the steps of slothfulnesse it selfe.

Well, at last came that desired day, not wherein Ricaredo thought to put an end to his desires, but to finde in Isabella new graces which might move him to love her the more, if more he could, then he did alreadie. But in that short time, when as he thought the shippe of his good fortune sayled with a prosperous winde towards the desired Port; a contrary chance, and crosse accident, raised up in this calme sea such a tempestuous storme, that he feared a thou∣sand times to see it suncke.

The case then is this. The chiefe Bed chamber Ladie to the Queene, to whose charge Isabella was committed; had a Sonne of the age of 22. yeares, called the Earle of Arnesto. The greatnesse of his estate, the noblenesse of his bloud, and the great favour which his Mother held with the Queene, made him not onely doe those things which did not become him, and to breake out into excesses; but also made him arrogant, proud, haughtie, and confi∣dent of himselfe.

This Arnesto then was enamoured of Isabella, and so en∣s•…edly▪ that his very soule did burne in the sparkeling light of Isabella's eyes. And albeit in that time that Ricaredo was absent, he had by some signes discovered his desires; 〈◊〉 was he never admitted by Isabella, or received any the least incouragement. And how be it that repugnancie, and disdaines in loves infane ie, are wont to make lovers to de∣sist from their enterprize; yet in Arnesto, the many and knowne disdaines which Isabella shewed him, wrought Page  241 the cleane contrary; for hee was set on fire with his owne jealousies, and burned with desire to attempt her honestie.

And for that he saw that Ricaredo in the Queens opinion had deserved Isabella, and that within so little a while she was to be given unto him for Wife, he was ready to runne into despaire, and to offer violence to himselfe. But before that he would goe about to use so infamous and cowardly a remedie, hee brake with his Mother, entreating her that she would speake unto the Queene to give him Isabella to bee his Wife; which if shee did not bring to passe, that he would then have her to know, and assuredly beleeve, that death stood knocking at the doores of his life.

The Mother wondred to heare such words fall from her Sonne, and for that she knew the roughnesse of his harsh nature, and head-strong condition, and the fastnesse wherewith these desires did cleave unto his soule, she was afrayd that this his love would end in some sinister successe, and unhappie issue; yet not∣withstanding, as a Mother (to whom it is naturall to desire and procure the good of her Children,) shee promised to preferre his pretension to the Queene, though not with any hope to obtaine such an impossibilitie of her, as the breaking of her Princely word; but that shee might not omit to try in so desperate a case the utmost remedie.

And Isabella being that morning apparrelled by or∣der from the Queene, so richly, that my Penne dares not presume to deliver the manner thereof unto you; and the Queene her selfe having put a chaine of Pearle about her necke, the best that was brought home by Ricaredo in the Shippe, valewed at twenty thou∣sand Duckats; and a Diamond Ring on her finger worth sixe thousand or thereabouts. And the Ladies being assembled and met together for to celebrate Page  242 the approaching feast of this glorious wedding, came in the chiefe Bed-chamber woman to the Queene▪ and besought her on her knees that shee would bee plea∣sed to suspend Isabella's espousalls two dayes more. For with this favour onely which her Majestie should doe her, she should hold her selfe well satisfied and re∣compenced for all whatsoever she deserved, or hoped for her service.

The Queene would first know of her why shee did so earnestly desire this suspension, which went so directly a∣gainst her word, which she had given to Ricaredo. But that Ladie would not render her the reason, untill that she had granted her requeste; and that then shee would make it knowne unto her. The Queene longed to know the cause of that her demand. And therefore after that the Lady had obtained that which she much desired, shee recounted to her Majestie the love that her Son bare to Isabella; and how that she feared that if she were not given him to wife, he will either grow desperate to his utter undoing, or doe some scandalous act or other. And that whereas shee had craved those two dayes of delaying the businesse, it was only to this end and purpose, that her Majestie might have time to thinke upon some course, what might in her Ma∣jesties wisedome be most sit and convenient for her Sons good.

The Queene made answer, that if she had not past unto her her royall word, she would easily have found a way to get out of that laborinth. But that shee would neither breake her promise with her nor yet defraud Ricaredo of his hopes, for all the interess of the World.

This answer the Ladie of the Bed-chamber gave her Sonne, who flying instantly from his Mother, •…rying in the flames of love and jealousie▪ armed himselfe at all points; and being mounted upon a faire and strong limmed Horse, pr•…ented himselfe before the house of 〈◊〉. Page  243 And with aloud voice, requested that Ricaredo would come to the window that hee might speake a word with him▪ who at that instant was all in his gallantrie, like a bride∣groome, and was even upon the point of going to Court, with such company as such a solemnitie required. But ha∣ving heard a loud call, and being told who he was that cal∣led unto him, and in what kinde of fashion he came; be∣ing somewhat troubled with it, he came to the window; whom as soone as Arnesto saw, he sayd unto him.

Ricaredo, hearken well unto that which I shall now tell thee. My Mistresse the Queene commanded thee to goe forth in her service, and to doe such noble exploits as should make thee worthie of deserving, the not to be pa∣ralelled, incomparable Isabella. Thou didst goe, and re∣turnedst with thy shippes laden with gold, wherewith thou thinkst that thou hast bought, and deserved Isabella. And albeit the Queene my Mistresse hath promised her unto thee; it was as being perswaded, that there was not any one in Court that hath done her better service, nor any that with better title may deserve Isabella; and herein it may very well bee that she was deceived. And therefore leaning to this opinion, which I hold for an ap∣proved▪ truth, I tell thee; that thou hast neither done such things as may make thee to deserve Isabella; neither canst thou doe any which may be able to raise thee to so great a heighth of happinesse. And therefore in regard that thou nor doest, nor canst deserve her; if thou shalt avouch the contrary, I challenge thee the field, and defie thee to the death. And here the Earle ended his speech; and Rica∣redo made answer thereunto after this manner.

This challenge (my Lord) doth in no manner of wife concerne mee; for I ingeniously confesse, that I not one∣ly not deserve Isabella; but that there is not that man 〈◊〉 living in the world that doth deserve her. So that I confes∣sing that to be true which you say, this your challenge 〈◊〉 way toucheth me; yet notwithstanding I accept of it, for Page  244 that your insolencie, and indiscretion which you have showen in this your challenging of me.

And with this he withdrew himself from the window, and called in all haste for his Armes. This unexpected crosse accident much troubled his Parents, and all those that were come to Clotaldo's house, to accompany Ricaredo to the Court.

Amongst those many that had seene the Earle Arnesto armed, and had heard the challenge he had made; there were not some wanting who acquainted the Queen there∣with. Who commanded the Captaine of her Guard that he should go presently and apprehend the Earle. The Cap∣taine made such good haste, that he came just in the very nicke, when as Ricaredo was going out of his house, armed with those armes wherein he disimbarqued, being moun∣ted on a goodly Horse.

When the Earle saw the Captaine of the Guard, he forth∣with imagined the cause of his comming; and determi∣ned (if possibly he could avoyd it) not to be apprehended. And speaking aloud to Ricaredo, sayd.

Thou now feest (Ricaredo) the impediment which hin∣ders us from deciding this quarrell. If (notwithstanding this interruption) thou shalt have a minde to chastise mee, thou wilt seeke after me▪ and I shall have the like minde to chastise thee, and seeke likewise after thee; and since two that seeke after each other, are easily found; let the execution of our desires •…urecase for the present.

Content, replied Ricaredo.

By this time the Captain was come in with all the Guard, and told the Earle that he must yeeld himselfe his Priso∣ner; for in her Majesties name he was to apprehend him▪ The Earle yeelded himselfe unto him; and told the Captain that he submitted himselfe to her Majesties Command; but with this condition, that he should not carry him to to any otherplace, save the Queenes Presence.

Page  245The Captaine remained therewith satisfied, and carry∣ing him in the midst of the Guard, brought him to Court before the Queene. Who had alreadie been informed by his Mother, of the great love which her Sonne bare to Isabella; and with teares besought her Majestie that shee would pardon the Earle, who being a young man, and deepely in love, was lyable to farre greater errours. Arnesto was brought before the Queene, who without entertai∣ning any speech with him, commanded his sword to be taken from him, and afterwards sent him to Prison.

All these things tormented the heart of Isabella, as like∣wise of her Parents, who so suddenly saw the sea of their quietnesse troubled.

The Ladie of the Bed-chamber, Arnesto's Mother advised the Queene, that for to remove that mischiefe betwixt her house, and that of Ricaredo, that the cause thereof might be taken away; which was Isabella, by sending her into Spaine, and so those effects would cease, which now were to be feared.

Whereunto the Queen answered; that for the sending of her into Spaine, she should treate no more on that point; because her faire presence, and her many graces and ver∣tues▪ gave her great content; and that doubtlesse, if not that very day, the next following, without all faile shee would marry her to Ricaredo, according to the promise she had made him.

With this resolution of the Queenes; Arnesto's Mother was so disheartened and discomforted, that shee replied not so much as one word. And approving that for good, which she had alreadie forecasted in her minde, that there was no other way, no other meanes in the world, for the mo•…ifying of that rigorous condition of her Sonne, nor for the reducing of Ricaredo to tearmes of peace, save by •…aking away of Isabella. She determined to put in practise one of the greatest cruelties that could ever enter into the thought of any noble woman, and especially so prin∣cipall Page  246 a one as she was. And this her determination was, to make away Isabella by poyson. And because it is com∣monly the condition of women to be speedy, and resolute in what they goe about; that very evening she gave Isabella poyson in a certain Conserve, forcing her in a manner to take it, telling her that it was excellent good against those passions of the heart, wherewith shee seemed to bee troubled.

Having satisfied her importunitie, within a little while after that Isabella had taken it, her tongue and her throate began to swell, and her lippes to grow blacke, her voyce hoarse, her eies troubled, and her stomacke and bowells tormented with gripings; all manifest signes and tokens that she was poysoned.

The Ladies came to the Queene, acquainting her Ma∣jestie how it was with her; and certifying her, how that the Ladie of her bed-chamber who had the charge of Isa∣bella, had done her this ill office. There needed not much pressing to induce the Queene to beleeve that it was true; and therefore went presently to see Isabella, who was almost breathing her last.

The Queene commanded her Phisitians should be sent for in all haste, and in the meane▪ while before they came, she caused a quantitie of the powder of Vnicornes-horne to be given her, and some other preservatives▪ against poyson, which great Princes use alwaies to have readie at hand, up∣on the like cases of necessitie. The Phisitians came and ap∣plied their best remedies, and besought the Queene that shee would bee pleased to cause that Ladie of her Bed∣chamber to make knowne unto them what kinde of poy∣son that was which she had given her; for it was not to be doubted that any other person but her selfe had poyso∣ned her. She did discover what shee had given her; and having notice of it, the Phisitians applied so many and such effectuall remedies, that by the in and Gods helping hand, Isabella remained with life, or at least in good hope of ha∣ving it.

Page  247The Queene commanded her Bed-chamber woman to be apprehended, and to be lockt up in a streight and narrow lodging in her Court, with intention to punish her according to the nature and qualitie of this her soule offence. Although that she sought to excuse her selfe by saying, that in killing Isabella she did sacrifice to the gods, by ridding the earth of a Christian; and together with her, removing the occasion of her Sonnes further quarrells.

This sad newes being brought to Ricaredo, made him al∣most out of his wits; such were the things he did, and such were the complaints he made.

In conclusion Isabella did not lose her life, yet the poyson had gotten that power over her, that she lost the hayre of her head, and of her eye-browes, her face was strangely pufft up, the graine of her skinne spoyled, her complexion marred, her whole body mightily swolne, and her eyes distilling watry humours. In a word, she was growne so soule and ill favoured; that she, who till then seemed to be a miracle of beautie, did now seeme to be a monster of uglinesse. And they who knew her before, held it the greater misfortune of the two, that she remained in this evill plight, then if she had dyed of the poyson. Not∣withstanding all this, Ricaredo sued a new unto the Queene for her, and besought her Majestie that she would give him leave to carry her home to his house, because the love which he bare her, passed from his bodie to his soule; yet comforted himselfe with this, that though Isabella had lost her beauty, yet could she not lose her infinite vertues.

Thou say o•…t crue, replyed the Queene, goe take her home with thee Ricaredo, and make account that thou carryest with thee a most rich jewell in a course case. I would have given her as sayre to thee, as thou deliveredst her un∣to me. But since this is not possible▪ forgive me that faul•…▪ happily the chastisement which I shall give to the com•… of this soule 〈◊〉, shall in part satisfie thy desire of •…nge.

Page  248Many things did Ricaredo say unto the Queen, seeking to excuse the Ladie of her Bed-chamber, beseeching her Ma∣jestie to pardon her, since that the reasons she alleadged in her excuse, were sufficient for to move her to forgive her greater excesses then these.

In conclusion, Isabella and her Parents were delivered unto him, and Ricaredo carried them home, I meane to his Fathers house. To those rich Pearles, and that Dia∣mond, the Queene added other jewells, and other chan∣ges of rayment; which were such, and so costly, that they discovered the great love which she bare to Isabella, who remained for the space of two moneths, without being able to be reduced to her former beautie. But the time being past, her skinne beganne to peele and fall away, and a fayre and smoothe graine of skinne to disclose it selfe.

In this interim, Ricaredo's Parents presuming that it was not possible that Isabella should become the same woman which heretofore she was; resolved to send for that Nor∣thern Damosell, with whom before that ever they treated with Isabella, Ricaredo (by agreement) was to marry. And all this they did without his knowledge, not doubting, but that the present beautie of this new bride, would blot out of his Sonnes remembrance, that of Isabella, which was now past; whom either they purposed to send into Spaine, together with her Father and Mother, giving them such store of wealth and riches, as should fully recompence their former received losses▪

There passed not above a moneth and a halfe, when as without Ricaredo's privitie, the new spouse entred within his Fathers doores, accompanied like her selfe, very well, and so fayre and beautifull a creature, that next to Isabella, when she was in her prime, there was not the like unto her in all •…dclin. Ricaredo was mightily startled with the sudden and unexpected sight of the Damosell, and feared least the suddennesse of her comming▪ would put Isabella Page  249 into some passion, and make an end of her life. And ther∣fore, for to remove this feare, he went to the beds-side where Isabella lay; and finding her onely accompanied with her Father and Mother before them, he spake unto her after this manner.

Isabella of my soule; my Parents out of the great love which they beare unto mee, being not as yet well infor∣med of that exceeding love which I still beare unto thee, have brought a Damosell into this house, with home they have treated and concluded to marry mee, before that I should know the worth that is in thee, or that thou shouldst recover thy lost health. And this they have done (as I verily beleeve) with intention, that the great beautie of this Damosell should blot thine out of my soule, which is therein so deepely engraven. I (Isabella) from the very instant that I lov'd thee, it was with ano∣ther kind of love then that which hath its ayme, and end, in satisfying the sensuall appetite. For albeit, that thy corporall beautie did captivate my sences; yet thy infinite vertues were they which imprisoned my soule; so that if being fayre I did love thee, being now foule I adore thee. And for the further confirming of this truth, give me this hand, and she giving him her right hand, and and he holding it fast in his, prosecuted his speech, saying. By that faith which my Christian Parents taught mee; and by that true God who heareth what we say, I pro∣mise thee (my deare Isabella) the one halfe of my heart, I vow my selfe thy Husband, and am so even from this very houre, if thou wilt rayse me to that heighth of hap∣pinesse to be thine.

Isabella remained in some suspence upon these words of Ricaredo, and her Parents amazed and astonished, she knew not what to say, nor doe any other thing, save her often kissing of Ricaredo's hand, and telling him with a voice intermingled with teares, that she accepted him for hers, and rendered her selfe to bee his servant. Ricaredo kissed Page  250 that her foule face, which when it was fayre, he durst never presume to touch. Isabella's Parents with tender and many teares solemnize this nuptiall feast. Ricaredo told them, that he would put off his marrying with the Nor∣therne Damosell which was now in the house, in such manner as he would hereafter give them to understand. And in case that his Parents should send all three of them into Spaine, that they should not decline it, but by all means get them goe; and that they should looke for him within two yeares, either in Cadiz, or Sevilla; assuring them in the word of a Gentleman, that ere that time were expired, hee would not fayleto bee with them, if Heaven should so long lend him life: and that if the time prefixed should be preterlapsed, they should then rest assured, that some great impediment or death, which was the more certaine, had crossed his intended journey.

Isabella made him answere, that shee would not stay onely two yeares for him, but all those of his life, till that she were truely certified, that he had left this life. And that, in that instant that this should come to her knowledge, the same likewise would be her death.

With these kinde words, fresh teares fell from them all. And Ricaredo went and told his Parents, that he would by no meanes be marryed, nor give his hand to the Northern Damosell to be his Spouse, till he had quieted his minde by a yeares travell. He knew well how to expresse him∣selfe, and gave them such good reasons for it; as likewise to the Parents that came with Clisterna (for that was the Damosells name) that being (as they were) all Christians, they did easily give credit unto them; and Clisterna was contented to remaine in her Father in Lawes house, till Ricaredo should returne, who craved a yeares time.

This being thus concluded and greed upon, Clotaldo told Ricaredo, how that hee was resolved to send Isabella and her Parents to Spaine, if the Queene would give him Page  251 leave so to doe. For (sayd he) peradventure the ayre of her own Countrey will hasten and facilitate her health, which she now beganne to recover. Ricaredo, that he might not give any the least inckling of his designes, answered (though but coldly) his Father, that he should doe that which seemed best in his owne eyes; onely he besought him, that he would not take ought of those riches from Isabella, which the Queene had bestowed on her. Clotaldo promised he would not; and that very day hee went to crave license of the Queene, as well for the marrying of his Son to Clisterna, as for the sending of Isabella with her fa∣ther and mother into Spaine.

The Queen was well contented with both his requests, and approved Clotaldo's determination. And that very day, without calling her Bed-chamber woman in question▪ She dismissed her of her service, and condemned her (be∣sides the losse of her place) in ten thousand Crownes to Isabella. And the Earle Arnesto, for his challenging of Ricaredo, She banished him for sixe yeares. Foure dayes were scarce spent and gone; but that Arnesto was upon the point to go to cumply with his banishment, having alreadie taken order for the returning of his money.

The Queene commanded a rich Merchant to come unto her that dwelt in Mundolin, who had very good correspon∣dencie in France, Italy, and Spaine; to whom She delivered ten thousand Crownes, and required of him bills of ex∣change, for the returning of them to Isabella's Father in Sevilla, or in any other part of Spaine. The Merchant dis∣counting his interrest and profit, told the Queene that he would make certaine and sure payment of them in Sevilla, by bills of exchange upon another French Merchant, his correspondent, in this manner and forme, viz That hee would write to Paris, to the end, that the bills might bee made there by another correspondent of his, because they would accept and allow of those that came from France, but not from this Island; by reason of the prohibition Page  252 of commerce betwixt those two kingdomes▪ 〈◊〉 that a letter of advice from him should serve the turne, by 〈◊〉 marke that passed between them two; and that with∣out any more adoe the Merchant of Sevilla should give him the moneys, who should bee advised thereof •…om Paris.

In fine, the Queene tooke such good securitie of the Merchant, that she made no doubt of the true payment of it. And not contenting herselfe with this, She sent for the Master of a Flemish shippe that lay in the River, and was to put forth the day following for France, onely to take testimonie thereof in some Port, that hee might bee the better able to passe into Spaine, under the title of com∣ming from France, and not from the Island; whom shee earnestly entreated to carry with him in his shippe Isabella, and her Parents, and that hee should use them well and kindly, and land them in Spaine at the very first place hee should come at on that Coast.

The Master who desired to give the Queene content∣ment, told her that he would doe it, and that he would land them either in Lisborne, Cadiz, or Sevilla. Having taken sufficient securitie of the Merchant, and assurance from the Master; the Queene by way of message, sent unto Clotaldo, that he should not take any thing of that away from Isabella which She had given her, as well in jewells as in clothes.

The next day came Isabella, with her Father and Mother to take their leave of the Queene, who received them with a great deale of love. The Queene gave them the Merchants letter, and many other gifts, as well in money, as other curious dainties for their voyage. And Isabella with such courtshippe thanked her Majestie, that she left the Queene a new oblieged unto her, for to continue her favours still towards her. She tooke her leave likewise of the Ladies; who now that she was growne disfigured, would not that shee should have left them, seeing them∣selves Page  253 free from that envie which they bare unto her beau∣tie, and would have beene very well content to enjoy her gifts of wit, and discretion. The Queene embraced all three of them, and recommending them to their good fortune, and to the Master of the Shippe; and desiring Isabella to advertise Her, of her safe arrivall in Spaine, and from time to time, of her well-fare, by the way of the French Merchant; She tooke her leave of Isabella, and her Parents; who that very evening Imbarqued themselves, not without the teares of Clotaldo, and his Wife, and of all those of the House, of whom shee was extreamely beloved.

At this their taking of their leaves, Ricaredo was not pre∣sent, who that hee might not make show of his tender heartednesse, and manifest his sorrow; procured some of his friends to goe abroad that day a hunting with him. The Regalos which the Ladie Catalina gave Isabella for her voyage were many, her embracings infinite, her teares in a∣boundance; her entreatings that shee would write often unto her, without number. And the thankes rendered by Isabella and her Parents, were answerable thereunto; so that though weeping, they left each other well satisfied.

That night the ship hoysed sayle, and having with a pro∣sperous gale of winde touched upon the coast of France; and there taking in such provisions as were necessary for their voyage into Spaine; within 30. dayes after they entred the barre of Cadiz, where Isabella and her Parents dis-imbarqued themselves. And being knowne by all those of the Citie, they received them with expressions of much content. They received a thousand parabienes of the finding out of Isabella, and of the liberty which they had gotten, being first captivated by the Moores, and afterwards by the Northern Islanders. Having beene made acquainted with all the pas∣sages of that businesse, by those Captives whom the libe∣ralitie of Ricaredo had set free.

Now Isabella in the meane while began to give great Page  254 hopes of returning to recover her former beauty. They re∣mained but a little more then a moneth in Cadiz▪ refreshing themselves of their wearinesse in their voyage; and then they went to Sevilla, for to see whether the payment would prove good of the tenne thousand Crownes▪ which were to bee put to the account of the French Merchant, who had undertaken for to see it disbursed. Two dayes after their arrivall at Sevilla, they enquired after him, and found him, and gave him the French Merchants letter, he did acknowledge the bill; but told them, that untill he had received letters from Paris, and a letter of advise, hee could not let them have the money, but yet that he looked every moment to be advertised thereof.

Isabella's Parents had hyred a very fayre house, right over against Santa Paula; by reason that there was a Nunne in that Monasterie, a neere kinswoman of theirs, who had the on∣ly rare and sweetest voyce in all Spaine; as well that they might be neere unto her, as also for that Isabella had told Ricaredo, that if he should come to seeke her, he should find her in Sevilla; and that her Cosen the Nunne of Santa Paula would direct him to her house. And that for to know where to finde her, he needed not to give himselfe any fur∣ther trouble, then to enquire after that Nunne which had the best voyce in the Monasterie, because this token could not easily be forgotten.

It was forty dayes, before letters of advise came from Paris, and within two dayes after they were come, the French Merchant delivered the ten thousand Crownes to Isabella, and she them to her Parents; and with them, and some other which they had got together, by selling some of those many of Isabella's jewells; Her Father began again to follow his trade of Merchandize, not without the ad∣miration of those who knew his great losses.

In conclusion, within a few monethes, he went repay∣ring his lost credit, and Isabella's beautie returned to it's former perfection. Insomuch, that when any speech was Page  255 had of fayre Women, all of them gave the Laurell to the North Isle Spaniard, who was as well known by this name, as she was for her beautie throughout the whole Citie.

By the order of the French Merchant of Sevilla, Isabella, and her Parents writ letters to the Queene of the North Isle, of their safe arrivall in Spaine; with such acknowledg∣ments, and submissions at her Majesties feet, as the many favours from her received, did require. They likewise writ to Clotaldo, and to his Ladie Catalina, Isabella styling them her Father and Mother, and her father and mother them their lords. From the Queen they received no answer, but from Clotaldo and his Wife, they did; whom in their letters gave them the parabien of their safe arrivall. Certifying them besides, how that their Son Ricaredo the next day after that they had hoised saile, was gone for France, and from thence to passe to some other parts of Christendome, whether it was fitting for him to go, for these ttling and securing of his conscience. Adding to these, other discourses and comple∣ments of much love, and affection, besides many other fayr and friendly offers. To which letters of theirs, they made answere with another, no lesse couteous and loving, then thankefull.

Isabella presently imagined, that Ricaredo's leaving his Countrey, was to come to seeke her out in Spaine, and feed∣ing her selfe with this hope, she beganne to lead the most contented life in the world, and studied to live in such sort, that when Ricaredo should come to Sevilla, he might sooner heare the good report that went of her vertues, then come to the knowledge of her house. Seldome or never did she goe out of doores, unlesse it were to the Monasterie; she reaped no benefit by any other Iubilees, save those which she gained by the Monasterie. From her house, and from her oratorie, she went more with her meditations, then her feet. She never visited the River, nor walked to the Triana; she never went to see the common pastimes in the field de Tablada▪ nor to see the parts of Xeres; nor to goe Page  256 if it were a fayre day, to the feast of Saint Sebastia, celebra∣ted by so many people, as can hardly bee reduced to any number. But spent all her whole time in retyrednesse, in prayers, and good desires, still looking for the comming of her Ricaredo.

This her great retyrednesse, did set on fire and inflame the desires, not onely of those young gallants of that street where she dwelt, but of all those that had but once had a sight of her. Hence grew night-musicke at her window, and day careers with their •…ennets. And from this her not suffering her selfe to be seene, and from others much desi∣ring to see her, encreased their seeking out of cunning Bawdes which were Mistresses in their Art, and promised to shew themselves no lesse in soliciting Isabella. And there were not some wanting, who endeavoured to bring this their wicked purpose to passe by witchcraft, charmes, sor∣cerie, and the like lewd courses. But against all these, Isa∣bella was like a rocke in the midst of the Sea, against which the waves and the windes dash and beate, but doe not move it.

A yeare and a halfe was now past, when the approach∣ing hope of those two yeares promised by Ricaredo, began with more earnestnesse then hitherto it had done, to vexe and grieve the heart of Isabella. And whiles shee was now and then thinking with her selfe that her Husband was come, and that she had him before her eyes, and asked him what was the cause that hindered his comming, and had kept him so long from her. And while againe she imagi∣ned the just excuses that Ricaredo made her for his long ab∣sence, and how willingly she did beleeve, and receive them, and how lovingly shee embraced him in her armes, and hugged him in her bosome, as being the halfe part of her owne soule. Then, even then when she was thinking on these Love fancies, a letter came to her hands from the La∣die Catalina, bearing date from Mundolin some 50. dayes since. It was written in the tongue of the Island, but shee Page  257 reading it in Spanish, saw that it spake thus.

Daughter of my foule, thou knowest very well Guillarte 〈◊〉 Page, he went along with him in this his journey. And by a Former of mine unto you, I advertised you, that Ricaredo made for France the second day after your depar∣tu•…▪ and from thence was to travell farther. Now this his servant Guillarte at the end of sixteen moneths; in all which time, we had no newes of our Sonne, came home to us yesterday, and brought us these sad tydings, that the Earle Arnesto had by treacherie killed Ricaredo in France. Now then (Daughter) consider in what case his Father, my selfe, and his Spouse are in with this heavie newes; being such, I say, that they have not left us any hope of putting this our misfortune in doubt. That which Clotaldo, and my selfe entreate of you againe, and againe, is; that you will truely and earnestly remember Ricaredo, who well deserveth this good office from you, consi∣dering how dearely hee loved you, as you your selfe best know. You shall likewise begge of God, that hee will give us patience, and bring us to a good death; to whom wee likewise will make the same request; and humbly beseech him, that hee will give unto you, and your Parents, many long and happie yeares of life.

By the letter, hand, and seale, there was not any the least doubt left to Isabella, for not giving credit to the death of her Husband. She knew very well his Page Guillarte, and knew that hee was true and trustie, and that in his owne nature hee hated a lye, and that he had no reason in the World for to feigne that his death; and as little, his Mother Ladie Catalina; being that it im∣ported nothing to send her such sorrowfull newes. In conclusion, no discourse that shee could make with her selfe, nothing that shee could imagine, could put it ou•… of her thought, that this unfortunate newes was not true.

Page  258Having ended the reading of her letter without s•…ng a •…are, and without shewing any signes of •…ow▪ with a composed coun•…nance, and with (to appearance) a quieted and contented minde, 〈◊〉 a•…se 〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉 where she 〈◊〉▪ and kneeling downe 〈◊〉▪ she ma•… a solemne v•…w to live a single li•…e, 〈◊〉 that 〈◊〉 •…ght lawfully doe it being now a widow.

Her Parents dissembled t•…ir griefe, and covered that sorrow, with the cloake of discretion, which this sad •…ewes had caused in them, that they might bee the better able to comfort Isabella in this bitternesse of her soule. Who being now as it were fully satisfied of her sorrow▪ moderating it with the resolution which shee had put on, she fell to comforting of her Parents, to whom shee discovered her intent. But they did advise her, that shee should not put it in execution, untill that those two yeares were over-past which Ricaredo had set downe for the tearme of his com∣ming; for thereupon much depended the confirming of the •…uth of Ricanedo's death, and shee might then with the more safetie and securitie, change this her estate.

Isabella followed their counsell, and the sixe moneths and a halfe which remained for the accomplishing of the two yeares, she spent them in the exercises of a religious Damosell; and for the better preparing and •…itting of her selfe for her entring into the Monastery; having made choice of that of Santa Paula, where her Cosen was.

The tearme of the two yeares was expired, and the day was come wherein shee was to take upon her the habit; the newes whereof was spred throughout the whole Citie, amongst those who knew her by fight, and by those that knew her onely by repor•… Now the Mo∣nastery stood not far off from 〈◊〉 house▪ and her farther •…viting 〈◊〉 friends▪ and they others▪ 〈◊〉 had one of the noblest and most honourable train•…s to accompany Page  259 her thither, as in the like occasions was ever seen in Sevilla.

There accompanied her the Assistante, the Deane of the Church, and the Vicar-generall of the Arch-bishop, and all the Ladies and gentlemen of title and qualitie that were in the Citie; so great was the desire that all of them had, to see that sunne of Isabella's beautie, which had so many moneths beene ecclipsed. And because it is the custome and fashion of those Damosells which goe to take the habit, to bee as gallant and as bravely adorned as possibly they can devise; who as one, that ever after from that instant sets up her rest, and takes her leave and farewell of all braverie, and wholy discards it. Isabella was willing (that she might not breake so ancient a custome) to tricke and set forth her selfe in the best and most curious manner that possibly she could invent. And therefore she did put on that gowene and kir∣tle, and those rich dressings which she had on when shee went to Court, which we have heretofore told you, how rich, how sightly, and how magnificent it was. There came forth to publicke view, those orient Pearles, and that glittering Diamond, with the Carkanet, chaine, and girdle, which likewise were of great valew.

Isabella went out of her house on foot, for her being so neere unto the Monasterie, excused Coaches, and Caro∣ches. The concourse of the people was so great, that it repented them that they had not taken Coach, for they would not give them way to get to the Monasterie. Some blessed her Parents, others Heaven that had inriched her with so much beautie; some did stand on tiptoe for to see her, others, having seene her once, ranne to get afore, that they might see her againe.

But he that shewed himselfe most solicitous in this kind, and so much, that many tooke notice of him for it; was a man clad in one of those habits which they weare, who returne home redeemed from their Captivitie. This Captive then at that very time that Isabella had set Page  260 one foot within the Porch of the Covent, whether were come forth to receive her (as the use is amongst them) the Prioresse, and the Nuns; with a loud voice he cried out, stay Isabella, stay; for whilest that I shall be alive, thou canst not enter into any Religious order. At the hearing of these words, Isabella and her Parents looked backe, and saw that cleaving out his way through the thickest of the throng, that Captive came making towards them; whose blew round bonnet being fallen off, which he wore on his head, he discovered a confused and intangled skeine of golden wyered hayres, curling themselves into rings, and a face intermixed with crimson, and snow, so pure red and white was his complexion; all of them assured signes and tokens, inducing all of them to take, and hold him to be a stranger.

In effect, one while falling through too much haste, and then getting him up quickly againe, he came at last where Isabella was; and taking her by the hand, sayd unto her. Knowest thou me Isabella? looke well upon me; behold, that I am Ricaredo thy Husband. Yes, I know thee (replied Isabella) if thou art not a phantasma, a walking spirit, or some false assumed apparition, that is come to disturbe my repose. Her Parents drew neerer and neerer unto him, and did view and eye him very narrowly; and in conclusion, came certainely to know that this Captive was Ricaredo; who with teares in his eyes, falling downe on his knees before Isabella, besought her that the strangenesse of that habite wherein she now saw him; might not be a barre to her better knowledge of him; nor that this his meane and baser fortune, should be a hinderance to the making good of that word and faithfull promise, which they had given and plighted each to other.

Isabella (maugre the impression which Ricaredo's Mothers letter had made in her memorie, sending her the newes of his death,) chose rather to give more credit to her eyes, and the truth which she had present before her, then to trouble Page  261 her selfe to make a further needlesse inquirie. And there∣fore kindely embracing the Captive, she sayd unto him. You doubtlesse (sir) are the man who can onely hinder my determination; since that you are truely my husband▪ you can be no lesse then the better halfe of my soule. I have thee imprinted in my memorie, and have layd thee up in my heart. Come therefore (sir) unto my Fathers house, which is yours; and there I will deliver up unto you the possession of my person.

All these words the standers by heard, together with the Assistante, the Deane, and the Arch-bishops Vicar-generall of Sevilla. At the hearing whereof, they were all of them strucken with admiration, and stood a while as men asto∣nished; and were desirous that it might presently be told them, what history this, and what stranger that was, and of what marriage they treated. Whereunto Isabella's father made answer, saying; that that historie required another place, and some time for to tell it. And therefore besought them, since that they were so willing to know it; that they would be pleased to returne backe with him to his house, being that it was so neere, and that there it should be re∣counted unto them, and in such a manner, that with the truth thereof they should remaine satisfied, and at the strangenesse of that successe, amazed.

This was no sooner sayd, but that one of those there present, spake aloude, saying. Gentlemen, this young man is a great Pirate, for I know him well enough; and this is he, who some two years since, and somewhat more; tooke from the Pyrates of Argiers, that ship of Portugal, which came from the Indies. Ye need not doubt that this is the man, for I confidently tell you that I know him; for he gave me my liberty, and money to bring me home to Spaine; and did not onely free me, but 300. Captives more, furnishing them with victualls, and moneys. With these words the vulgar were in an uproare, and the desire afresh revived, which all of them had to know and see such Page  262 intricate things as these to be fully cleared.

In fine, the Gentlemen of more especiall ranke and qua∣litie, with the Assistante, and those two principall Church∣men, returned backe to accompany Isabella to her house, leaving the Nuns sorrowfull, and weeping, that they had lost so •…ayre a Sister, and companion as Isabella. Who being come home, and having brought the Gentlemen into a spacious large Hall, entreated them to sit downe; and al∣beit Ricaredo was willing enough to take upon him the re∣lating of this desired history; yet notwithstanding it see∣med good unto him, rather to trust Isabella's tongue and discretion with it, then his owne, who did not very per∣fectly speake the language of Spaine. All that were present were in a still silence, and having their cares and soules rea∣die prepared to heare what Isabella would say, she began to recount the story; Which I reduce briefly to this; that she delivered all that unto them, which happened from the day that Clotaldo by stealth carried her away from Cadiz till her returne thither againe. Not omitting the battell which Ricaredo fought with the Turks, and the liberality and boun∣tie which he had used towards the Christians, and the faith which both of them had plighted each to other, to be man and wife. The promise of two yeares, the newes which she had received of his death; and that so certaine to her seeming, that it put her into that course which they had so lately seene, of professing her selfe a Nunne. She did endeare the Queene of the North Islands bounty to∣wards her, and the Christianity of Ricaredo, and his Parents. And ended her speech, with desiring Ricaredo that he would relate what had befallen him, from the time that hee left Mundolin, untill this very present; wherein they saw him clad in the habit of a Captive, and with a badge in his brest, betokening that he was redeemed by way of Almes.

It is true as you say, replied Ricaredo; and in a few short words, I will summe up unto you my many and great troubles. After that I went out of Mundolin for to excuse Page  263 the marriage which I could not make with Clisterna, with whom Isabella told you my Parents would have mee to marry, taking Gu•…arte along with me; that Page, who (as my Mothers letters made mention) brought the newes to 〈◊〉 of my death. Crossing France, I came to Rome; where off those two thousand Crownes which I had in gold, I delivered a thousand and sixe hundred to a Banker, who gave me a bill to receive so much in this Citie, upon one R•…qui a Florentine. And with those 400 which remai∣ned▪ with me, with intention to come for Spaine, I made for Genoa; whence I had notice given me, that there were two Gallies of that Signorie to goe for Spaine.

I came with Guillarte my servant, to a certaine Towne called Aquapendien•…e▪ And in an Inne where I alighted, I found the Earle Arnesto, my mortall enemie; who with foure servants went disguised, and went (as I conceive) to Rome, I did verily beleeve that he had not knowne me, I shut my selfe up in my lodging with my servant, and there kept my selfe close, and with a great deale of care and vi∣gilancie, and with a determination and purpose, at the shut∣ting in of night to get mee gone, and to change that my lodging for a safer. But I did not doe it, because the great carelesenesse which I observed in the Earle, and his fol∣lowers, did assure me that he did not know me. I supt in my lodging, I made fast the doore, stood upon my guard with my sword in my hand; I recommended my selfe to God, and would not that night goe to bed. My selfe and my servant lay downe on a bench to take a little rest and sleepe, and my selfe was halfe fallen a sleepe.

But a little after midnight, they awakened me with pur∣pose to make me sleepe an eternall sleepe. Foure pistolls (as I afterwards understood) the Earle and his servants dis∣charged against me, leaving me for dead; and having their horses already in a readines, they presently put •…oot in stirrop and went away; bidding the Host of the Inne, that hee would see me fayrely buried, for that I was a man of prin∣cipall Page  264 note and qualitie. My servant (as mine Host after∣wards told mee) awakened with the noyse, out of very feare leapt downe from a window▪ that looked out into a base Court, crying out; oh miserable and unfortunate that I am! they have slaine my Lord and Master; and ha∣ving sayd this, he hyed him out of the Inne, and that with such feare, and haste, that he did not so much as looke backe, or make any stay till he came to Mundolin; so that it was he who brought the newes of my death.

They of the Inne got up, found mee shot athwart my bodie with foure bullets, and wounded with many o∣ther lesser shot; but all of them lighting on such parts, that there was not one mortall wound amongst them all. They cured me, but it was two moneths and better, before I was able to travell.

At the end whereof, I came to Genoa, where I found no other passage, save in two small boats, which my selfe, and two other principall Spanyards hyred; the one to goe before as a Vessell of advise for discoverie, and the other we went in our selves. With this securitie, we embarqued our selves: sayling along the shoare▪ with intention not to ingulfe our selves; but comming over against that place which they call Las Mtres arias, or the three Maryes, which is on the Coast of France. Our first boat going forward to see if she could discover any thing; in an unluckie houre, two Turkish Gallies that lay lurking there in a little creeke of the Sea under the Rockes; and the one of them putting her selfe forth to the Sea, and the other keeping close by the land; when they saw our drift that we meant to run a shoare, we were prevented in our course, taken by the Turkes, and stript of all that we had even to our naked skins. They rifeled the boats of all that they had, and suffered them to run a shoare, without offering to sincke them, say∣ing; that they would serve another time to bring them a∣nother Galima, (for by this name they call those spoyles and booties which they take from the Christians.)

Page  265Yee may very well beleeve me, if I tell you that I felt in my soule the sorenesse of my captivity; and above all, the losse of those certificates, and provisions I received at Rome, which I brought along with mee, lapt up in a little boxe of plate; as likewise my bill of exchange for a thousand and sixe hundered Crownes. But as good lucke would have it, they lighted into the hands of a Christian Captive a Spanyard, who kept them safe; for if they had once come to the Turkes fingering, I should at least have given for my ransome, as my bill made mention of. They brought mee to Argiers, where I found the Fathers of the order of the blessed Trinitie, treating of the redeeming of Christian Captives; I spake with them, I told them who I was; and moved out of charitie, though I was a stranger unto them, they redeemed mee in this forme and manner fol∣lowing. They gave for mee three hundered Ducats, one hundered to be layd downe presently; and the other two, at the next returne of the Shippe that should come to re∣deeme the Father of that society, who remained in Ar∣giers, engaged in foure thousand Ducats more then those that hee brought with him; for to such great pittie and compassion extended the charitie of these men, that they give their owne, for other folks liberty, and remaine them∣selves Captives, for to free others from Captivitie. And for an addition of this happinesse of my libertie, I found my lost boxe, with my certificates, and my bill also of Exchange. I shewed it to that holy Father who had ransomed me; and I offered him five hundered Ducats more then my ransome came to, towards the payment of his engagement.

It was almost a yeare ere the Shippe of almes returned; and that which in the interim happened unto mee, if I should goe about to recount it now unto you, it would be another new Historie. Onely I will tell you that I was knowne of one of the 20. Turkes whom I had set at liber∣tie, with the rest of the Christians before mentioned▪ But he Page  266 was so thankefull, and so honest a man, that he would not discover me. For had the Turkes knowne that I was the man that suncke their two Gallies, and tooke out of their hands that great shippe of In•…ia; they would either have presented me to the great Turke, or have taken away my life. And to have presented me to the great Turke, had been the losse of my liberty during life.

In conclusion, the father that did ransome me, came to Spaine with me, together with other 50. redeemed Cap∣tives. In Valencia we made a generall procession, and from thence every one went his owne way which he liked best, with these ensignes and tokens of their liberty, which are these poore kinde of habits. This day I came to this Citie, with so great and earnest a desire to see my espou∣sed Isabella; that without any other thing detaining mee. I enquired for this Monastery, where I was to have notice given me of my Spouse. That which herein hath befallen mee, ye have alreadie seene; that which remaineth to bee seene, are these certificates in the plate-boxe which I told you of; and with that hee put them into the Deanes hand, who preserved them together, with the Assistante, who did not finde any thing in them, that might make doubt of the truth of that which Ricaredo had delivered unto them. And for further confirmation thereof, Hea∣ven had so ordained it, that the Flore•… Merchant was present at all this, upon whom the bill was for the pay∣ment of 1000. Duckats; who entreated that they would let him see the bill; and they shewing it him, he presently acknowledged, and accepted it, for it was many moneths since that hee had order for it. All this was but to adde admiration to admiration, and amazement to amaze∣ment.

The Assistante embraced Ri•…, and 〈◊〉 Pa•…, and her selfe; all of them in very courteous language offe∣ring them their service. The like did the 〈◊〉 Clergie 〈◊〉, and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 that shee would set downe 〈◊〉 Page  267 storie in writing, that the Arch-bishop might reade it, which she promised she would. The people from the highest to the lowest giving the parabien to Isabella, Ricaredo, and their Parents, they tooke their leaves. And they on the other side besought the Assistante, that he would honour their wedding with his presence, which some eight dayes hence they did purpose to celebrate. The Assistante was very well pleased with the motion; and within eight dayes after, accompa∣nied with all the highest and principall persons of the Citie, he wayted on them to Church.

By these turnings and windings, and by these circum∣stances, Isabella's Parents recovered their Daughter, and were restored▪to their former wealth; and she assisted by her many vertues, in despight of so many inconveniencies, lighted on a husband, of such especiall ranke and qualitie as Ricaredo. In whose company (it is sayd) she still liveth in that house which they rented right over against Santa Paula, which since they bought of the heyres of a gentle∣man of B•…rgos, called Hernando de Cifuentes.

This Novell may teach us, what great power ver∣tue, and beautie have, since that both of them together, and each of them by themselves are of force, to make even their enemies in love with them. As likewise how that heaven knowes from the greatest adversities and af∣flictions, to draw the greatest benefits, and comforts.