The history of Polexander in five bookes / done into English by VVilliam Browne, Gent. ...

The continuance of the adventures of Zelmatida, and Isatida.

I Will, since it is your pleasure, begin my discourse where it was interrupted, and will continue it by the jealousies and suspitions of Hismalita. This Queene had melancho∣ly fits and disquietings, which amazed all her Court, and made the wisest avoide all oc∣casions of seeing her. She endured not Zelmatida but by constrayning her selfe. Shee sought every day some pretext to be rid of him, and the consideration of this stranger made her to hate her owne blood; she gave to Isatida divers proofes of an anger that was the more to be feared because it was lesse broken out. Whilest this secret hatred crossed the felicity of those innocent Soules, and made them feare all that their amorous imaginations could frame the most horrible and fearfull; Fortune came to assist Love, and by a pranke of her wonted inequalitie, would doe service to virtue, deride the cruell policy of Hismalita, confound all the providence of her Councellors and Divines, and contribute her assistance to the accomplishing of things that had beene so often promised to my deare Master. She corrupted (if I must use that word) those whom the Queene most trusted, that so Zelmatida might be in safety and discover all the designes that they set on foote to destroy him. Many of Hismalitaes domestiques, wonne with the sweetnesse, the courtesie, and the liberality of this Prince, advertis'd him of what was deliberated in their Mistresse cabinet, and beleev'd that to be trusty to her, was to be unfaithfull and traytors to their gods and themselves. Amongst others Galtazis (who in the body of an Infant had the wit of a man, and as very a dwarfe as he was might bee called, not the defect out a miracle of Nature) was the first that gave Zelmatida intelli∣gence of the bloody resolutions that Hismalitaes feare made her take against him. This little one had beene given to Isatida when Montezuma conquer'd the Estates of the Cacique of Zampoallan, and presently grew so passionately amorous of the Princesse, that he every day blessed his misfortune and captivity, since through it he had attayned to the glory to be the slave of so faire a Mistresse. Hismalita that almost in all things shewed a jealousie of her daughter had taken him from her, and imagined that by her savours and caresses she might so gaine him that he might serve her for a Spie. But this

generous little courage abhorring all basenesse and treachery, continued constant to what he had promis'd Isatida; and had it not beene by the expresse commandment she gave him, to feigne, and make a shew of extreame love to Hismalita, he would ra∣ther have died, then done things so contrary to his thoughts. When Zelmatida came to Mexico, Hismalita lov'd nothing more then this dwarfe, and beleev'd him so much hers, that she feard not to discover to him what she had of most secrecy. But hee that knew well on what conditions he gave himselfe to that Queene, judiciously advertised his true Mistrisse of all that most imported her, and by his good Councell, made her to take hold of such occasions to please Hismalita, that the jealous Mother was constray∣ned in despite of her selfe, to confesse that Isatida alone gave her more delight and con∣solation then all the rest of her daughters. Now this little-one, in all things following the inclinations of Isatida, very often without knowing them, had scarce seene my Lord the Inca, but he lov'd him, and so extraordinarily that he thought him only wor∣thy to serve his faire Mistresse. Zelmatida for his part, was extreamly pleased in the conversation of this little-one, and seeing how judicious and faithfull he was, feared not to let him know his affection. Galtazis seeing things happen to his wish, interes∣sed himselfe in this Love, and contributed thereto not much lesse then Zelmatida himselfe.

And now, knowing from Hismalita, what feare the presence of this stranger threw on her, and learning some of those predictions on which all those jealousies were founded, he as soone gave my deare Master notice of it, and concealed not from him, that, in the end the Queene infallibly resolved to have him murthered. The dwarfe in∣timating thus much, advised him to absent himselfe for a while, and by a necessary flight avoide those cruelties that accompanied the jealousies of Hismalita. But Zelmati∣da, embracing Galtazis, and laughing at his feares and councells; My friend (said he) since by a Lawe imposed on nature, all things must have an end, O how happy am I, to have met with so faire an occasion to perish in! I shall not die of a vulgar death, but shall have this advantage over all other men, that my death shall beget an envy in all those that can lay a claime to any generositie. Galtazis knowing the great spirit of Zelmatida, I confesse (said he) that you are worthy to se•…•… my faire Mistresse. Goe on invincible Prince and feare not but the gods will turn away those disasters that threaten you. This little-one, after he had thus confirmed my deare Master in his resolution, left him, and went certainly to make it known to Isatida. The Inca having now thanked the Sunne, to whom he had a particular devotion, though he knew not yet that he was the Author of his Race, bethought how to gaine Hismalita by some eminent service for feare to lose Isatida. Yet among these different cares, he forgot not to bethink him∣selfe that Quasmez asked his daughter from him, and accused him for not being enough gratefull to him; He therefore sought out Isatida with an intent to speake to her yet once more for Xaira; but the Princesse •…•…ut him off the displeasure of petitioning twice for one thing. For as soone as she could with freedome speake to him. I am to give you an account (said she) of the matter you intrusted me withall. I have enquired after the Princesse which you seeke with so much passion, and perceiving that my Governesse made some difficulty to speake to me. I did often times by embraces woe her to tell me if she had heard any thing spoken of Xaira. Whilest I sollicited her with so much ear∣nestnesse, she used such actions as made me beleeve she went about to discover some great secrets to me; for on the suddaine, she changed countenance, and so great a trem∣bling seized her, that she was a long time before she could answere me. At last she recollected her selfe, and swore to me that she had never seene the Princesse X•…•…ira. But as if she beleeved that her oathes were not sufficient to make me credit it, she accom∣panied them with so many sighes and teares and other signes of affliction, that but for you, I should have repented the asking her the question. Yet Zelmatida let not this make you despaire; you are assured even by the mouth of a Prophet that Xaira is living, you are expresly come into this country to free her from prison, you are he who infallibly must give her liberty; let time then agitate and the superiour causes, and thinke not that the wills of the gods eyther advance themselves or recoyle as it pleaseth the fanta∣sticallnesse of our vowes. The king perswaded by Isatidaes reasons, admired the power

of her wit, and became daily so idolatrous of it, that it is not a small signe of his excel∣lent nature, that in so generall forgetfulnesse of himselfe, he constantly remembred how much he was oblieged to Quasmez. Some fewe dayes after this conversation which had caused Hismalita to lose the rest of her complying, or rather of her dissimu∣lation, she received two generall intelligences equally sad and deplorable, which made her betake her selfe to other thoughts then how to be avenged of my deare Master; The posts that came in hourely, reported news that Montezumas was eyther killed or at least taken prisoner in the towne of Tevich, and that the Cacique Coatelicamat ac∣companied with those of Zusolia and of Tlamacolapan and many other Provinces, were comming with an army of two hundred thousand combatants to besiege Mexico.

This unexpected insurrection, for which they were unprepared because it was ne∣ver dreaded, joyned with the death or prison of Montezuma spread such a feare in all the spirits of the Court, that Hismalita giving way to this first fright was at the point to abandon Mexico and to retire her selfe to Vacipale. In this extreamity they were forced to have recouse to Zelmatida whom the Mexicans called the eye of Vitcilopuchtli, which is the God of providence, and the right arme of Tezcatlipuca which is the God of battailes. In effect they looked on him as a God, where the power of all the two thousand they adored was enclosed; and when he went through the streets, men by Troopes followed him; and Mothers shewing him to their children, threw into those innocent soules the seeds of adoration and love. Hismalita who by a weaknesse very ordinary in the most part of Princes, put off her passions according as was councelled, and had not love nor hatred but what her Ministers inspired withall her insensible na∣ture, put off to another time all that her hatred had intended, and fitted herselfe to de∣ceive Zelmatida by faire apearances. You might have seene her then instantly altered, and from fierce and insupportible as she had alwaies been to him, she becam eso com∣plying and submisse, that my Lord the Inca hath since confessed to me that he pittied so shamefull a weakenesse, at the first councell she held, after the newes of the impri∣sonment of the King her husband and the inroades of her enemies, she sent for Zelmati∣da and intreated him to be present. He obeyed her, to witnesse to Isatida, that in what∣soever concerned her, he would neither finde backwardnesse nor difficulty. As soone as he was in the Councell Chamber, and that he saw Hismalita attended on by so many men of state, he made shew by his action that he was ready to execute all that they plea∣sed to command him. Hismalita called him forward gave him an honourable place, was a long time in commending his valour, and rendred him new thanks for his services done to Mexico. Then she enlarged herselfe on the hopes they all had of him; and speaking of his age with admiration, told him that Tescatlipuca had not endowed him with such rare qualities to have them as it were concealed in vulgar occasions. That he was infallibly destinated for great executions; and though he were very young they were obliged to beleeve that he had no lesse wisedome then courage: And that she therefore conjured him, in case that Mexico were beleagured, to command those war∣riers which she should chuse for her defence, and to make appeare in the publique con∣servation, the same valour which he had shewed in that of some particulars. That in re∣compence she promised him not only in her owne name but in that of Montezuma and his successors, all the share that he would desire in their fortunes. Zelmatida retaining till this occasion that wisdome which seemed to be borne with him, answered the Queen that the honour to serve her was an advantage for whose acquisition there was nought which a man of heart should not undertake. That he would accept it with an extreame contentment, but that he humbly besought her to dispence with him for the employ∣ment she would use him, since he had neither experience nor other partes which were necessary for so great a charge. All the Assembly was much satisfied with the modesty of this answer, and thought it fit to resolve of nothing that day, but that they should meet againe the next morrow to conclude all things. The next day then, was the great Councell held. Hismalita and the old Princesse which could not follow Montezuma were present, and after divers contestations, the Queen not only partaged the affaires of the warre, and the leading of the Troopes, amongst six of the most experienced Cap∣taines

that were about her; but also (for all the resistance my deare Master could make) shed eclared him Generall as well within as without the Towne. When he saw there was no apearance of gainesaying what was resolved; I'le obey (said he to Hismalita) since tis your pleasure, but on condition, that I undertake nothing till I have consulted with those that are more experienced and wiser then my selfe. The old Mexican Princes, that were naturally proud and by the merit of their actions, found themselves much pleased with the Kings Declaration, and assured Hismalita, that she might rest herselfe in quiet, and contemne the descent of a small number of seditious persons: His∣malita was easily perswaded; and after she had received Zelmatida's oath went out of the Councell with him, and to establish him in his command, made him to be carried through all the City, with the same magnificence, they were wont to carry their Kings on the daies of their triumphes. This necessary and troublesome ceremony being done, my Lord the Inca shut himselfe in private withall those of command under his charge. Presently he got made the description of all the Kingdome of Montezuma and the Ter∣ritory of Mexico. Then he desired to know the places already possessed by the Rebells, and those they were to come by. When they had made kno wne to him all this, he in∣formed himself of the number of Souldiers, of the quantity of ammunition and of the for∣tifications of the Towne. He put off till the morrow the mustring of his men of warre, gave command to one of his Livetenants to visit all the publique Magazins, and to send to all particular houses to see what provisions they had. Hismalita the while, and the same day, went about to see the defects and the advantages of Mexico; and from that morning set them on worke every where with so much diligence, that he made the Towne capable to sustaine a siedge of two yeeres. During all these great businesse, he forgot nothing of that which a perfect Lover owes to her he affecteth. He saw Isatida punctually twice in a day, and saw her with so much the lesse nicety, because he feared not Hismalita's Eunuques. The kinde wellcomes he received from the Princesse and the teares with which she confirmed her innocent and true affection, gave him a courage able to have conqueted the whole world. There is no doubt (said he) but that the gods take pleasure to heare the vowes which are just. I have often praied them for some oc∣casion to expose my life for your service, and to deserve some way a commendation from your mouth: They have heard my prayers; and the rebellion of your Subjects, in not so much a signe of their hatred to you, as it is to me a proofe of that love Heaven beares me, Tis in your mame Isatida that I undertake an employment far above my abi∣lities. But all shall be possible whilst I have your protection and assistance. Confirme there the honour which the Queene your Mother hath done me, and be good enough to perswade your selfe that I will acquit my selfe worthily of the charge that is imposed upon me. If you beleeve thus much you will oblige me to lose that ill opinion I have of my selfe, and by that happy deceipt, you will make me like those who transported by the force of their imagination, have alone gotten battells, and made their way through ruine it selfe. Whilst Zelmatida spoke thus affectionately, Isatida looked on him her eyes halfe shut, and unable to answer, she being so neere touched, stood, as one that was nei∣ther halfe awake nor well asleepe. At last she came to her selfe, and seeing my deare Master at her feet, conjured him to have more reason then her selfe. After these few words she held her peace, and was yet sometime silent. But when she could speake indeed, she made it well appeare by her discourse, that the truest love is accompanied with feare, She imagined difficulties which could not betide her otherwise then by the apprehension of those dangers to which she saw her lover exposed. After that love had expressed all that hath, of tendernesse, feare and disquiet; Reason became Mistris, and shewed Isatida how far her councells and feares were unjust: She condescended to these remonstrances, and was constrained by her good disposition not only to consent to what the King desired of her, but oftentimes to entreate him to forget what was passed, and to be yet once more the Defender of the empire of Montezuma. Zelmatida that knew very well how to husband with a great deale of discretion, the wit and favour of Isatida, and who, for her sake feared so much, that most commonly he avaided the oc∣casions of entertaining her and beleeved that he ought no more to wrong her facility. He therefore retired, and twas well he did so, for he was no sooner in his lodging, but

Hismalita sent for him. He went to the Pallace, and understood that the Quene was re∣tired into her Cabinet with the chiefe of her Councell. There was order left for his en∣trance, and that was the cause he attended not at the doore. As soone as Hismalita saw him, she arose to receive him, and seating him in a chaire next below her owne: Tis fit (said she) that we make you a partner of the ill newes which are newly brought me, and that by the Picture which the King my Lord hath sent me, you should know the deplora∣ble estate into which his great heart and unfaithfull fortune have precipitated him. Pray∣sed be the gods, he is not dead as I feared, but the perfidious Tyrant of Thevic detaines him prisoner, and so unworthily useth him, that as I understand by his posts, he wisheth himselfe a thousand times in a day in the stately Tombe that he hath caused to be built for the glory of those Monarques from whom he is descended. His cruell enemy threa∣tens him continually with death, and to make it more full of griefe and infamous, he thinks to bring him to the spacious towne place of Mexico, and to execute him in the sight of his wife and children. But wretched and unfortunate Hismalita! thine eyes shall never behold this horrible spectacle, or thine armes shall not be strong enough to pluck thee from so sad a destiny.

After a showre of teares shed by the Queene in ending this complaint, abode a while in silence and her eyes shut, at last she opened them, and extending her hands to Zel∣matida; deare stranger (said she) or rather some visible god that art descended from hea∣ven for the safety of Mexico, be favorable to my just prayers, hearken to those of all my Subjects, looke on the fetters and bondage of Montezuma! and suffer not the im∣pious Coatelicamat (confidering his powerfull offences) to have cause to confirme him∣selfe in his abhominable intentions. Goe on with your weapons drawne, to meete this Monster, make him to feele the weight of that arme under which the mighty Gy∣ant Popocampecho fell, and by the like stroake avenge a wife unjustly persecuted, a∣venge those children whose innocence would make the most barbarous to relent, a∣venge millions of Soules which are guiltlefly tormented, and avenge the gods in a∣venging your selfe; Zelmatida blushing at the flattery and impiety of the Queene, was twice or thrice about to answere, but judging it a crime to contest with them, he tooke another Subject to talke to her, and comforted her for the imprisonment of Montezu∣ma, in promising to expose his life for his delivery. I accept of all your offers (replyed Hismalita) and feele from them I know not what hope that seemes to assure me of the returne of my prosperities. But bethinke you as well of your owne conservation as of ours; beleeve lesse to your courage then judgement; execute not that by your selfe, which your Souldiers may performe, and lose not us by your too much hazarding your selfe. There is no danger to be run (answered Zelmatida) when a good cause is defen∣ded and that Justice goes along with our armes. The disloyall Coatelicamat shall feele that remorse and those terrors wherewith traytors are tortured, and his unfortunate end shall be an eternall and most fearfull warning to all Rebells, to keepe those Lawes in∣violable which the gods have ordayned them. This discourse ended Zelmatida and some of the Mexican Princes went forth from the Queene, and resolved that instantly they should advance to meete the rebells. The two or three next dayes were imployed in the viewing and mustering of the Troopes, and the king found that he had above a hundred thousand men. Of those he left part for the guard of the City, and as soone as he had taken leave of Isatida, marched out of Mexico, with all the presages that might assure him of the victory.

After he had put his Army in batalia beyond the lake, he tooke the way of Culhua∣can, which is foure miles from Mexico, and sent forerunners to learne newes of the e∣nemy, and knew at their returne, that the Rebells marched as men that knew how to make warre, and that on the hearing that they were come out of Mexico, their vant∣guards had entrenched themselves in a village, whence it was very hard to force them. Zelmatida, very glad of this news, kept on his way, and made his men march day and night. Some Thevician Couriers came to meete him, and began light skirmishes. The Inca caused them to be undertaken, to the end to advance his troopes the most he could when he came to certaine Hillocks which covered the bourg, he encamped, and advi∣sed to lodge there all night. At day breake he resolved to force the enemy, and therfoe

chose out of his Army ten thousand of his best men, and of them composed five batali∣ons, which he led himselfe, where he intended they should fight, and after he had gi∣ven such order every where, that it was hard if the onset thrived not, he made all to fall on at the same time. Those which were led by Zelmatida, willing to make appeare their deserts, mastered the intrenchment, forced the barricadoes, and though they de∣fended themselves very well within the Bourg, yet at last they became Masters of it. They flew all that had not time or cowardise enough to save themselves by flight. This first exploit, succeeding so happily; Zelmatida, thought it fit to pursue the enemy. All his Troopes were resolute on it, when there came news from Hismalita, by which my deare Master understood that the Cacique of Zempoallan was within a little journey of Mexico, with above thirty thousand men: Hereupon he assembled the Councell of war, to know what was expedient to be done. There were divers opinions, but upon the intelligence received that the Cacique of Thevic, and five other Princes were but a daies journey thence, and came with above foure hundred thousand combatants, they made Zelmatida resolve to retire, and to goe and oppose that inundation which came by the way of Zempoallan. The next day, at day breake the army dislodged from the bourg, except foure thousand men, which Zelmatida left there to amuse the Enemy. But the Mexicans, who for the most part are heartlesse, and who fight not but when they are assured by their great number; no sooner saw the Theviciens but they forsooke the bourg, and came to seeke their safety in the grosse of the Army. By this Zelmatida un∣derstood the defect of his troopes; and changing his first Councell, intended to under∣take nothing that should be difficult with a people that obeyed not very well, and fought a great deale worse. Well then imagine him encamped on the side of the lake, in a great plaine, that on the North hath the towne of Culhuacan, on the South, that of Iz∣tacpalam, on the East that of Mexico, and on the West that of Tlacopan. Having lodg∣ed his Army in places so advantageous, and made good all eminenties that might annoy his enemies, he came to Hismalita, and stayed not longer then he was enforced to take new commands, and consult of a meanes to hinder the joyning of the troopes of Zem∣poallan with those of Thevic. This done he visited Isatida, and seeing her in an afflicti∣on that could not be augmented: Madam (said he) I intend not to condemn your sor∣rowes, since that nature and reason it selfe cannot give you more just ones. But if the desire to serve you deceive me not, and did not make me hope for more then I ought, assure your selfe that you shall yet see the King your father on his Throne, and all those enemies that from all parts come to pillage this brave City, shall be soone sacrificed to those teares which their perfidiousnesse hath caused to fall from you. Isatida could not answere my deare Master, but speaking to him with her eyes, which all dying as they were, were yet capable to revive him; she made him know that the imprisonment of the King, nor the debordment of their enemies was not solely the cause of her affli∣ctions.

Zelmatida was constrained to leave her sooner then he intended, and to get him a∣gaine to his Army, which aff•…•…ighted at the comming of the Theviciens, would have for∣saken the field and retyred into Mexico. But the Princes arrivall confirmed and retain'd them in some order. Presently he went to descry the enemy, and unwilling to give them time to lodge presented them battell. This boldnesse did not alone astonish the Theviciens but withall gave a terror to the Mexicans. But the last tooke heart by the beliefe they had that Zelmatida was a god to whom nothing was impossible, and the worst Souldier amongst them, animated by the Prince his presence, made himselfe be∣leeve that he was become extreamly valiant. When the Inca perceived all that multi∣tude prepared to fight, he would needs hearten them to it, and an oration fitted to the humour and spirit of all that were there, perswaded them that there were no forces able to resist them. The Cacique of Thevic, carried away by the unruly notions which the •…•…ge to reigne gives the amoitious, made his Army march to meete with that of Mexico. As soone as they were in that case, that they could not goe off, but must fall to handy blowes; Zelmatida made his first troopes give on, but they found such a resistance, that they began to give back, when he sent others to assist them. Wheresoever Zelmatida appeared, the Theviciens were defeated, but every where else they were masters, and

knew so well how to presse the Mexicans, that without the conduct and valour of Zel∣matida they had beene all cut in peeces. He endured the shock of three or foure thou∣sand men, slew the Cacique of Themocolapan, and made so glorious a retreate, that in the judgement of the very enemy, it went for a victory. See in what manner the The∣viciens remained masters of the field, and block'd up Mexico by Land and Water. Eve∣ry day the king made sallies, wherein his prudence and valour going hand in hand crowned him with the more glorious palmes, by how much he had the worst Souldiers, and fought with the best and in great number. Hismalita was not in a little trouble to see the cowardize of her Souldiers, and knew not what way to witnesse how much she was oblieged to Zelmatida; but being dextrous and crafty, she thought she could not more powerfully winne my deare Master then by giving him the meanes to see and entertaine Isatida. This conjecture being confirmed by her confidents, she notedly increased her former affection to the Princesse, and tooke more care then ordinary to discourse and to have her in her company. She even some time made her to be dressed before her, and desiring that she should be alwaies richly attyred, caused to be made for her both roabes and dressings of such value and so artificially wrought, that the fea∣thers, if they did not therein contest for the prize, yet did they for their well suting with the Dyamonds and Pearles. Zelmatida enjoyed all these felicities; and knowing Hismalitaes intention, bethought him to make the Seige last long, that his good fortune might be the longer lasting. He forgot not for all that any thing that could give him the name of a great Captaine, and not hazarding but when 'twas, to good purpose neyther himself nor his troopes, wearying the enemy, and made them repent of their enterprize. He from time to time also proposed to Hismalita divers waies of finishing the seige, and advised her to joyne the Inhabitants of Mexico with the men of warre, to force the E∣nemy and make him resolve on a battell. But the Queene that would not hazard any thing before she had heard news of Montezuma, conjur'd him to suspend this good de∣signe, and attend the succours which would infallibly be sent her from those Provinces which were not revolted. The King easily consented to it, and blessing in himselfe the blindnesse of Hismalita, was ravished to see that his fearefull Enemy, seemed to af∣fect the occasions that might please him. Now, one day being with her, there came one to signifie to him, that there was at the Gate a man sent from the Cacique of The∣vic that desired to speake with him. Zelmatida, that would not in the presence of the Queene make use of his authority of Generall, intreated her permission for the entrance of the Thevicien. Hismalita, who in this novelty imagined to her selfe some overture of peace, was willing to see him. Zelmatida therefore sent two of his guard to receive him, and to conduct him to the Pallace. Streight after he came and was presented to the Queene.

As soone as he had made his entry, with incivility enough, he demanded leave to deliver his charge, and that he might see him who commanded the men of warre. His∣malita shewing him my deare Master; See (said she) the Man you seeke. At that word Isatida changed colour, and if all the company had not beene attentive to the Herald, no doubt at that time the change of her countenance had discovered the secret of her heart. This while Zelmatida came neere the man, and told him that he might speake boldly, since the Queene did him the honour to thinke it fit; the other told him he was sent by Accapouzalco, Cacique of the rich City Xochmilco, and Soveraigne of the mynes of gold, and of the lake of delights, to defie ten of the most valiant men that were among the Mexicans. The king tooke pleasure in the boldnesse of this Barbarian; and how many (said he) will this invincible man have with him? My Prince (replyed the Souldier) makes too little esteeme of men, to make any account of their assistance; he alwaies fights alone, and alone carries the victory. He will have no more seconds in this little occasion then he hath had in the greatest; and conjures thee, if thou be as brave a man as thou art reputed, that thou wilt make one, and choose to thy selfe a∣mong thy friends ten, nay twenty which are worthy to assist thee in this combat. Zel∣matida began to laugh at this proposition, and was a long while ere he could get the Queenes good will to accept of the challenge; at last he had it, and sent back the He∣rauld with an assurance that the next day he would be without the towne with his

friends, to give his Master a little exercise. Imagine into what trouble and perplexity those words out Isatida, and what disquiets she underwent all the rest of the day. As long as she was with the Queen, she was in those anxieties and constraints as are ima∣ginable. she looked on Zelmatida with eyes that witnessed at once both her anger and feare.

The close of the day was the end of that torture; she withdrew into her owne lod∣gings as soone as she was permitted, and began to figh at liberty. Oftentimes she accu∣sed my deare Master that he loved her not, since he feared not to displease her, and sought without her permission occasions to lose himselfe. He left her not long in this ill humour, but came to her as soone as he had left Hismalita. When he saw how coldly she intertained him, and by a serious aspect intimated how much she was displea∣sed; he came neere her with a great deale of submission, and witnessing his feare to her; shall I (said he) be enough unhappy to have brought you to doubt of my respect or my faith? I confesse I have somewhat enlarged my selfe beyond the boundes of my servitude, but Isatida what language would you have used to your slave, and with what face durst he to have presented himselfe before you, if he had refused so faire an occasion to serve you. The Princesse that could not be angry with a person in whom she discove∣red dayly more signes of love, respect and generosity; I will not (said she) treate you so rudely as your disobedience deserves; and I forget (for this time) the boldnesse that you have taken to dispose of your selfe without my consent, and am not angry that you have met with so faire a Subject to make you yet so considerable. But I permit you not this combate but on condition that you undertake it with ten of your friends; and more, if my prayers be heard, that is, if you returne victorious, I command you upon paine to run the hazard of my indignation, not to engage your selfe ever in any dangerous enter∣prise till you have advertised me of it, that I may see whether I ought to permit you to put in execution. Zelmatida (answered) that since he had the honour to see and to tender her his service and liberty: He had relinquished and put off all power on him∣selfe, and reserved only that which was to serve her eternally. Be pleased then to be∣leeve that I will never undertake any thing without your permission. Nor had I accep∣ted the defiance of Accapovealco, if on the suddaine when I cast mine eyes on yours, I had not knowne that you gave me your consent, and that your all-generous soule gran∣ted me secretly a favour, which was not permitted to be asked you. But Isatida, give o∣ver these troublous objects, and reflect on my new felicities. Doe you not admire the goodnesse of Hismalita, and the affection that she shews me even in those things where∣in I still thought to have found her my enemy? The Princesse made well knowne by her answer that she was not accorded with my deare Master, and a little casting down her eyes; Zelmatida (said she) you have your weakenesse as well as other men. You beleeve with too much facility those things which you desire with so much passion. The favours which you receive are too great not to be suspected. I know Hismalita, and finde that she hath done too much to perswade my selfe that she will follow her now inclination. Feare may be hinders me from judging aright, and tis possible I may wrong the best Princesse of the world; but you Zelmatida are the cause of it; see then if I have not subject enough to hate you, since that for your sake, I live not as I ought, & that by little and little I become unnaturall to make me seeme good. Our Lovers spent most part of the night in this conversation. Isatida in dismissing Zelmatida told him that he ought to leave to him that doth all with justice the ordering of things to come, and to expect from his goodnesse such events as should be worthy him. In the meane while he should retire to take that rest whereto the combate he was to undertake the next day obliged him, and that he might assure himselfe that either her prayers should not be heard, or else be very advantageous to him. Zelmatida that used to obey the Princesse without long consideration or delay, gave her the good night, and so went to his bed. By day breake he was up, and had already walked above two houres in a gar∣den into which opened the windowes of Isatida's chamber, when one of the principall Officers belonging to Hismalita came and told him that the Queen desired his presence. He went to her, and she found him with the same assured conntenance that she had seen he daies before; and admiting in her selfe the great heart of the Prince, grew angry

with her selfe to have as many causes to hate him as she had to love him; she had a minde to entertaine him, but that one came and related that the Gyant had been twice already even at the gates of the towne. This news was the cause that joy and sadnesse dividing mens mindes, represented to some Zelmatida victorious over the Gyant, and to others the Gyant triumphing over Zelmatida. But he that thought on nothing but of doing acts worthy his love, left the Queene, and comming into the chamber of Isati∣da, found her all in teares. He besought her to ratifie the permission which she had given him, and not beleeve his enemy to be invincible. I know (said she) why you use this language to me: No, no, I doe not thinke the Gyant invincible, yet have I not∣withstanding, a thousand reasons to be afflicted. The perill to which you are going to expose your selfe, would obliege me to it (I say) were you a person but indifferent to me; since for my sake only you are engaged in this combat, and by consequence in spite of my selfe become guilty of your death, if it happen that the chance of warre give the advantage to your Enemy.

Indeede knowing your courage, and having heard related so many marvels of it, I should have cause not to apprehend the event of this duell if all things were equall. But when I consider that you goe to contend with a Monster, as tall againe as your selfe, I cannot receive those reasons that perswade me that I doe you wrong to have you feare him. My Lord the Inca, by these words felt himselfe bound in new chaines, and with∣out daring to take the boldnesse to aske from the Princesse the least favour in the world, told her that before night she should be oblieged to prayse him, alive or dead. Whilest Isatida betooke her selfe to her prayers with her Governesse and dwarfe, Zelmatida went to take his armes, and accompanied with one only Squire went out of Mexico, and came to the causey where the Gyant stayed for him. The walls of the City were ranged with men and women, to see by the successe of this combat what the fortune would be both generall and particular. The lake was covered with Canoas and other vessells full of Theviciens; and the place where Zelmatida was to fight, was a square expresly made on the great causeway, for a corps du guard, and in case of necessitie to serve for a place of defence, and to fight with those that after they had gotten the cause∣way would enter into the towne. Zelmatida appeared there, rather armed for the try∣umph then for the combat. He wore a head peece covered with a great many feathers, which came on his shoulders and covered part of his face. His armes were halfe naked, and for all defensive armour had only a Cuirasse of quilted cotton, and a buckler of gold, on which to signifie the extremity of his love, he had caused to be painted the mountain Popocampecho, all on fire, and round about the buckler these words engraven: My heart preserves all his owne. He had a quiver full of arrowes, a bowe hanging as a scarfe, and two long Javelins, armed at the ends with golden pikes. For the Gyant he was more extravagantly covered, and more advantageously too. He had the whole skin of a very great Tyger; the muzell of the beast served him for his head-peece, and the rest, tyed in five or sixe places, was for a good Cuirasse. He wore a bowe and ar∣rowes and a great club. As soone as he saw Zelmatida within shot of his arrowes, he shot two at him that had pierced him through and through, if he had not dextrously a∣voided them. My deare Master in comming neerer, darted at him one of his Jave•…•…ns, but it rested hanging in the skin of the beast that armed the Gyant, and could not wou•…•…d him. He knew then that fighting after this manner, he should not make an end of his enemy; he therefore came close up, and passing upon him, thrust the halfe of his Jave∣lin into his right thighe, and by that would tooke away his strength of upholding him∣self. The Gyant retyred to be reveng'd, and to brayne his adversary with one only blowe; but his rage taking away his judgement, and my deare Master returning upon him, ran him through the second time. The paine of this new wound, made the mon∣ster foame; and he threw himselfe on Zelmatida to have stifled him in his armes, and cast out his left hand to have catched him by the hayre, but the Inca avoiding his hold∣pierced his arme, and left the Javelyn in the wound. This great wound made the Gy∣ant mad: he threw his club away, and uncovering all his body, cast himselfe on his e∣nemy. Zelmatida seeing so faire an occasion, tooke his •…•…owe and let fly an arrow, which passing under the Gyants left arme (which was then lifted up) stroake him right at the heart.

With this the Monster gave a great cry, and catching his vanquisher in his armes, bore him to ground with him; he fell on one side, and Zelmatida on the other, so un∣happily, that meeting the head of an arrowe he gave himselfe a deepe wound: the Gyant died presently, and by his death strooke so strange a terror into the hearts both of the Thevic's and Zempoallan's Army, that had the Mexicans beene men of valour, there is no doubt but that very day they had given end to a Seige which began to make them practise by force that sobrietie which is naturall to them. As soone as they had stynched the blood that Zelmatida lost by his wounds, he returned into Mexico, with all the pompe that so great an action could be attended. He was not only admired of Hismali∣ta and of all the Court, but his enemies themselves were forced to acknowledge that whilest he defended Mexico they had little hope of taking it. In the City they spoake more advantageously. The people blessed the day in which that valiant defender came thither, and from the defeate of one sole enemy, promising to themselves the like of three or foure hundred thousand more; foolishly called on to the fight those whom they durst not see, but from the top of their walls. As soone as Hismalita heard the successe of the combat, she made shew of an excesse of joy, which makes me say, that the in∣comparable power of the virtue of my Master, overcame the ill nature of that Queene, and made her capeable of a good action. That which makes me thinke so, is, that he was received with an extraordinary freedome, and that all the evening she spoake of nothing but his victory, but cry up often times in exaggerating the generositie with which Zelmatida would overcome his Enemy. Let us leave here (if you please) the vulgar resentments, and entertaine our selves a little with those of Isatida. Though the Queene her mother knew she was not well, yet had she not the patience to have her absent, but sent an absolute command that she should dresse her; that nothing of sad∣nesse might be intermingled with the publique rejoycing. Isatida came where she was expected, but at her entry they might perceive in her lookes such a kinde of coldnesse, that she had beene generally condemned if the pretext of her sicknesse had not repressed the indiscreete zeale and reproaches of all the people. She never cast an eye on her victorious servant, and by that entertainment so little expected, taught him a faire les∣son of that humility of minde, wherewith we should receive those disgraces that betide us, then, when we thinke we have least deserved them. He was much troubled at it, and detesting all the honors they did him, put this day into the number of the most unfor∣tunate in his life

Presently he called to minde all that he had done, nay all that he had thought on since he left the Princesse. And seeing that the witnesses of his Conscience set his minde at rest, he tooke this indifferency of Isatida as a remedy which she had found to allay that vanity which possibly so many happy fortunes joyned together might have caused in him. As soone as Hismalita was retyred, Isatida that tooke notice of her servants dis∣content, sent him word by Galtazis, that she desired his company to her chamber, that she might know from him that which her indisposition had not suffered her to behold. Zelmatidaes heart leapt at this welcome command, and was so transported with it, that his wound opened, and notwithstanding all that they could apply to it, bled such a great quantity of blood, that the Princesse tooke notice of it, and grew as pale and feeble as if her owne blood had run from the wound of my deare Master. He came neer her, and taking her by the arme to assist her; You see (said he) how my heart it selfe gives you a testimony of its fidelity. It hath alwaies feared, that my words were by you suspected, and that you doubted of the assurances which my mouth for its part gave you. It knowes that it is an interpreter artificiall and cryed downe, and that all ages have attainted it of treason and flashood. It is long since too, that it hath stroven by all meanes to make it selfe knowne to you. At last Fortune is come to his ayde, and facili∣tating things which seemed impossible, hath given it that which it could not obtayne from nature. 'Tis (faire Isatida) that it speakes by my wound, and the drops of blood that fall thence, are so many words by which it makes knowne to you its infinite love; and protests that my mouth hath said nothing to you till my heart had given it a most ex∣presse commandement. Isatida, comming to her selfe, whilest my deare Master spoake to her thus passionately, could no longer hold that little anger, which she had resolved

he should undergoe. I must confesse (said he) that you have a great power over our m•…•…des; surely, we sh ould not thinke it strange that you overcome Giants, since you shew your selfe of suffi ci ency to vanquish that which is naturally invincible. Triumph then (Zelmatida) since you deserve it, triumph over my choler, as well as of the second Popocampecho. But be not like those unfortunate Conquerors that have found their grave in their triumphant Chariot. Goe, thinke on your woundes, and when you are in case to be seene, I will tell you the cause of my anger: In the meane time I command you to feare it no more; it is now as unable to hurt you as the Giant you have over∣come. My deare Master would needs perswade Isatida that his wounde was nothing, not considerable; But as soone as the Princesse opened her lips to repeate the com∣mandment she had given him, he obeyed according as was accustomed; and that sepe∣ration was an ill farre more sensible then that he had received in his combate. After his being in his Chamber, they closed his wounde, and though indeed it was but little, yet for all that it incommodated him extreamely. The next morning he came forth, and had almost the whole daies liberty to see Isatida. He besought her a thousand times to tell him the cause of her anger. You beleeve (said the Princesse to him) that I have no cause to complaine; But know that I have subject enough, since against my command and your promise, you have not feared to hazard that which is mine, and to fight alone against a Monster, who thought himselfe strong enough to defeate a whole Army.

My deare Master seeing the pleasing indignation of the Princesse, shall I beleeve (said he) that any thought of me could at any time possesse a minde so much divine as yours? Certainely though hitherto I have found goodnesses in you which are no where else seene: Yet did I not imagine them so infinite that they could extend to the care of my preservation. But I know whence this tendernesse comes. You looke on me as the worke of your owne hands, and would retard my losse, since you beleeve that your power would suffer some diminution, if you should suffer to perish the least thing that is if it bore any marke of yours. This nimblenesse of wit (answered Isatida) where∣with you put off any thing that might hurt you, hinders not me yet from being offended▪ and that I beleeve not, but you esteeme litle of my friendship since you make no more difficulty to put me into a perplexity. I know what you can say to justifie your action, and will not give so much to my fancy, but I will give more to your considerations. Therefore I forget what is past and looke no more on your last actions, but on that side where they are to you most glorious and honorable; But if ever it happen that you neg∣lect my intreaties, and doe not tie your selfe scrupulou•…•…ly to those necessities I shall en∣joyne you; know, that I shall not be alwaies good, and that I shall have power enough over my selfe, to take from you those favours which by you shall be neglected. This conv•…•…rse had lasted longer, but an extraordinary noise arising about the Pallace, enga∣ged Zelmatida to preferre the safety of strangers before his owne. He ran where the clamour and confusion was greatest, and saw that on all •…•…ands the Mexicans fled, and ran into the Towne with an incredible terrour and disorder. He stopped these Runa∣waies, and suffring himselfe to be transported with the just anger that so generall a co∣wardize had lightned in his soule: Have you resolved (cried •…•…e to them) to deliver your selves, your Wives and Children to the fury of your enemies. Must the pro•…•…d and triumphant Mexico, which neither feares the force nor the subtleties of so many people banded against her, be this day turned into ashes, by the infamous treachery of 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 Inhabitants? What a shame is it yee Mexicans? You call the Rebells within y•…•…ur 〈◊〉〈◊〉▪ and abandoning to them all your entrances, signifie to your Queene that 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 in∣telligence with the Theviciens and beare a part in their disloyall •…•…volt. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 words had so great a power on these timerous soules, that they were streigh•…•… fac•…•…s 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and following Zelmatida, cast themselves furiously on the Caussey. The The viciens tha•…•… had gotten it, were forced to quit it, and retire into their Campe after they had 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 twenty thousand men on the Lake and the cause way. Zelmatida thought himselfe 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sufficiently revenged: He therefore the night following made a sally on the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Zempoallan, and surprising them, fell on so fiercely, that the Cacique and three of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Sonnes were there slaine and above thirty thousand men with them. The rest 〈◊〉〈◊〉 terrified forsooke their entrenchments, and being no longer staied by the 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉

of their Commanders, fled confusedly even to the Frontires of Zempoallan. The Caci∣que of Thevic failed not the next day to make shew of more then foure thousand boates on the Lake, in the least of which there were foure men, and with them encompassing two third parts of the Towne, caused a generall affault to be given. It was then, that the Mexicans; thought themselves lost; but Zelmatida having bin (as a man might say) e∣very where at the same instant sustained the affault more by the greatnesse of his courage thē the mumber of Mexicans; & repuls'd the Theviciens with as litle advantage as they had gotten in all their former fights. This glorious day giving an absolute terror to the besieg∣ers, gave rest to the besieged. Both sides for two daies were quiet and undertooke nothing. Z•…•…lmatida gave all that time to his passion, and being scarce absent from his faire Prin∣cesse; t•…•…ied by his generous promises to free her from the feares which the King her Fathers imprisonment threw on her.

Doe me the honour to beleeve (said he) that the Cacique of Thevic will not trench on the life of Montezuma, and chiefely in a time when the ill successe of his affaires threatens him with an approching ruin. If he be wise, he will not be obstinate in a siedge so disadvantageous to him, and if he be so imprudent to continue it, we shall soone bring him to repent it, so that by one way or other it will behove him to looke to the safety of the King your Father, that it may be a meanes to preserve himselfe; and in re∣storing to the King his liberty, by that way may buy both his owne and his peoples free∣dome. Isatida, whose love made her easie to be perswaded, beleeved firmely all which Zelmatida told her, and doubted not, but that by his assistance Montezuma might be de∣livered from the hands of his enemy. Zelmatida perceiving that the Princesse gave eare to his reasons, and was willing to be comforted, told her, that among so many unfortu∣nate as were in the world, he was the man alone that every day saw his hopes to grow lesse and lesse, and that labouring for the safety of another, laboured at the same time for his owne perdition. I must no more doubt (said he) but that my happinesse shall be of no longer continuance then the captivity of Montezuma. His reestablishing shall be my ruine, and the same moment that settles him againe in his Throne shall drive me far off for ever from the happy place where all my felicities are enclosed. Take no heede (said she) of common mishaps, and since tis beneficiall to us to beguile our selves, let us not be more cleere fighted then we have beene hitherto. For the rest, call to minde that in delivering Montezuma and protecting Hismalita you fight for Isatida. If what may be∣tide from her be capable to worke on you, assure your selfe, that your paines and tra∣vell shall have their reward. These Lovers had continued this pleasing discourse, but that one came to advertise Zelmatida that two Heralds sent by the enemies desired per∣mission to see him. He came presently forth and going into the Temple of the god of battells, he there met Hismalita. He intimated to her the comming of two Theviciens, and besought her to heare them. They were streight brought in, and one of them pre∣senting a great Role to Hismalita, told her that the Cacique his Soveraigne Lord sent her that Declaration written with the bloud of those that were slaine before Mexico. The Queene who for divers considerations wished for nothing but peace, caused the writing to be unfolded, and commanded one of her Officers to read it. The man having a perfect knowledge and well versed in the Charecters of Thevic, deciphered them thus.