The Æthiopian history of Heliodorus in ten books / the first five translated by a person of quality, the last five by N. Tate ; to which are prefixed the testimonies of writers, both ancient and modern concerning this work ...

THE AETHIOPIAN HISTORY. The Tenth Book. (Book 10)

THus have we given account of what was transacted about Syene, which after such extremity, was restored by the Justice and Clemency of the Conqueror. Hy∣daspes now sending the greatest part of his Army before him, returns into AEthiopia: Both Per∣sians and Syeneans following him with Con∣gratulations and Prayers for his safety. He therefore took his journey by the Banks of Nile, and through the adjacent Countrys. But be∣ing come to Cataractae, after Sacrifices to Nile and the Tutelar Gods of the Borders, he turn'd off through the Midland Regions. When he

was arrived at Philae, he rested two days for Refreshment of his Souldiers; therefore once more sending th•• multitude before him, he him∣self tarry'd in the Town, to repair the Wall•• and settle a Garrison. Then choosing out two Messengers with orders to change their Horses, for dispatch on the Road, he sent them with Letters to inform his Friends at M••roe of his Victory.

To the Wise Men call'd Gymnosophists, who were of his Councel Royal, he wrote thus:

Hydaspes to the Divine Assembly.

TH••se are to acquaint you with o••r Victory, not boasting of our Success or Manag••ment (since ev••nts of War are at the disposal of Provi∣dence) but to ••xpress our respect for you, request∣ing you to meet at the appointed place, and to grace our Sacrifices for our success with your pres••nc••.

To his Wife Persina he wrote as follows.

KNow that we are Conquerours, and what most concerns you, safe in our Person. Where∣fore make preparation for Triumph, and Sacrifices of Thanks, and come with our Gymnosophists into the Field before the City, which is dedicated to the Gods of our Country; the Sun, Moon, and Bacchus.

Having read these Letters, this is the Sense of my Vision (said Persina) for last night in my Sleep, I fancy'd my self deliver'd of a Daughter of full blown Beauty and Stature: The Pains signifying the troubles of the War and the fair O••••spring, the compleat Victory. By this time the City was fill'd with the news; the Messen∣gers Riding through the principal Streets on white Hor••es and in white Vestments, being Crown'd with the Plants of Nile, and bearing Branches of Palm in their Hands, by their v••ry Habits and Gesture declaring their Message. The City being thus fill'd with joy, they per∣form'd Sacrifices Night and Day in their di∣stinct Tribes, Streets and Families, crowding the Temples; not so much for sake of the Victory, as for the safety of Hydasp••s: Whom for his Clemency and Justice, they look'd upon as their Common Parent, as well as their King.

Persina there••ore having sent vast Herds and Flocks, with all manner of Beasts and Fowl into the Sacred Field; partly to make Hecatombs therewith, and partly for Provision, in the pub∣lick Feast, went to the Grove consecrated to Pan, the Residence of the Gymnosophists, to whom she gave the Letters from Hydaspes, desiring them to obey his Orders, and grace the Solemnities with their Presence. They en∣treated her to stay a while without, while they went into the Oratory, to consult the Gods Pleasure. From whence returning, after a

small stay, Sysimathres, the Provost, the rest keeping silence, spoke thus: We sh••ll attend you, said he, for so the Gods command: But withal, they foreshow some tumult and disor∣der that will happen in the Ceremonies, which yet shall have a happy Conclusion, forasmuch as a Member of your Body, which h••s long been lost, shall now be restor'd ••nso••••ht. Whatever misfortune shall happ••n, reply'd P••r∣sina, all things will do better for your P••es••nc••. As soon as Hydaspes arrives, I shall info••m you. There is no n••••d of that, said Sys••mathr••s, for his Letters will tell us that he will to morrow be here. Accordingly it h••ppen'd; for before she was return'd to her Palace, a Messenger overtook her with the same tydings. The pu••∣lick Officers therefore hasten the prep••rations for the Sacrifices, permitting only Male P••r∣sons to be present: for the Worship b••longing to the Sun and Moon, the m••st pure and chast Deities, they excluded Women from the Devo∣tion, lest any Polluti••n should happ••n therein. The Priest••ss of the Moon w••s only p••rmitt••d, which Office P••rsina herself sus••ai••'d; as Hy∣daspes, the King, was High Priest to the Sun, by the ancient Rites of the Country. Charicl••a was likewise to be present, though not as Priest∣ess, but Victim. The people therefore were too impatient to wait till the day was 〈◊〉〈◊〉, but the Evening before came over the River of Astabora, some by the Bridge; those that li••ed

at distance, in Boats, which was easily done, by reason that each containing not above two or three at once, was made by splitting of a Cane Trunk into two parts, each half, without further labour, serving for a Boat.

The City Meroe is a Triangular Island, made by the Confluence of the Nil••, the Astabora and Alasobus: This inland Spot being miles in length, in Breadth, is furnish'd with Animals of vast bulk, the Elephants being bred there: And as it bears some Plants naturally, is by Improvement supply'd with others: For besides Palm-trees of prodigious Tallness, it al∣so bears Corn of such height, that a Man on Horse-back, and sometimes on Camels, is hid in passing through: It is withal so fertile, that the Grain which is sown comes up three hun∣dred fold.

The people being thus transported over the respective Rivers, they all met, and join'd Con∣gratulations to H••daspes, as it were to some Deity; but these however at a distance: The Gymnosophists were admitted nearest to him, so as to join Hands, and salute him, before the Sacred ground. After them stood Persina, in the Entrance to the Temple. After they had here finish'd Adorations and Praise, they turn'd off to the Publick Sacrifices, placing themselves in Tabernacles that were before prepared. These were composed of four Canes, newly cut down, each Cane being cut four square, serv'd for a

Pillar; the Covering was made of several Boughs, the fairest being Branches of the Palm-tree. In another Tabernacle was placed the Images of their Gods, with Pictures of famous Persons, of Memnon, P••rs••us, and Androm••da; supposed, by them, the Authors of their Royal Line. In Seats b••low s••t the Gymnosophists, with the Images of th••ir Gods li••ewise ov••r their Heads: Before them Bands of Souldiers, with Shields, to keep o••f t••e Press of the p••o∣ple, and preserve room for the Solemniti••s. Hydaspes, in few words, told the company his Service perform'd for the Commonwealth, and commanded the Sacrifices to begin. Three Al∣tars were erected, two of them appertaining to the Sun and Moon, the third to Bacchus, set at distance, to whom they o••fered all m••nner of living Cre••tures. Upon the Suns Altar were Sacrificed young Hors••s: A yoak of Ox••n to the Moon, as b••ing s••r••i••••able in Husban∣dry. In the mean time there was a voice heard among the Crowd, Let the usual Sacrifice of the Country, for our common safety, ••e first made; and after that, the ••irst fruits of the War be offer'd. Hydaspis unders••••nding them to mean humane Sac••i••••c••••, as was usual of Cap∣tives taken in Foreign Wars, signed to them with his hand, that they should instantly have their Desire: Withal commanding the appoint∣ed Prisoners to be brought forth: Among them came Theagenes and ••hariclea, guarded, but not

boun••. The rest were pensive, only these smi∣led with chearful Countenance: Chariclea look∣ing constantly on Persina, so that she was con∣cern'd thereat, and said, O Sir, What a Virgin have you commanded to be Sacrific'd? I never saw so great Beauty and Resolution. Her Age and Form extremely move me; if our Daugh∣ter had liv'd, she would have been now of her years: I wish to the Gods you could find some means for her Delivery. I should be pleas'd to have her an Attendant at my Table. Per∣haps the unhappy Creature is a Grecian, for ne∣ver was there such a Beauty in AEgypt. She is a Greek, answer'd he, by Father and Mother, whom she promis'd to produce in this presence, but how ••hat can be possible, I do not imagine: But that she should be deliver'd from this Sacri∣fice, I am sure is absolutely impossible, though I my self could wish it, and am touch'd with Compassion for her. Our Laws exact a Man to be Sacrificed to the Sun, and a Virgin to the Moon; and she being first taken, the people will not otherwise be satisfy'd: One help only remains, which is, if she prove not a pure Vir∣gin, for such the Sacrifice requires; and if so, she is uncapable of your Reception. Let her be so found, said Persina, rather than Die; nor can she be much blamed, after such Exile and Travels, especially having Beauty, that could scarce escape Force and Rape. Hydaspes then com∣manded Fire to be brought, by the Priests, from

the Temple, on which the Captives were to tred. Bars of Gold were heated over this Fire, and had this Virtue, That every unchaste or perjured person were burned with treading on them, but such as were otherwise, receiv'd no harm. The Corrupted Persons they appointed to Bacchus, and other Gods. After Theagenes had trod there∣on, and was found Chaste, which was with wonder beheld, he being of such Youth and Vi∣gour; wherefore he was set apart, to be offer'd to the Sun. Then, said he to Chariclea aside, is Death the Reward of Chastity in AEthiopia? But wherefore do you not now discover your self? What other time do you expect? or will you stay till the Knife has pierc'd our Throats? Therefore declare your self: When you are known, 'tis possible I may be saved for your sake; at least you will be safe your self, which will be my satisfaction in Death.

She told him her Time was now at hand; and so, without command, put on her holy Vestment, which she brought with her from Delphi, wrought with Gold, and set with Jew∣els; then with her hair dishevell'd, and, as it were, inspired with Divine fury, she leap'd upon the Coals, where she stood a long time without hurt, the Fire only giving addition to her Beauty; so that in that Holy Attire, she seems to the Beholders rather a Goddess than Mortal Woman: So that the most Superstitious amongst them heartily wished her Deliverance.

Persina, above all others, was troubled, and said to Hydaspes, How unhappy is this wretch that boasts of a Chastity that is so fatal to her! What is there to be done for her Relief? You trouble me in vain, said Hydaspes; your pity is foolish on one that cannot be saved; and seems from the Beginning, for her Excellence, to be reserv'd for the Gods. Then turning to the Gymnosophists, he asked them, Why they did not begin? The Gods forbid, (answer'd Sysi∣mathres, in Greek, that the people might not understand him) for we have too much pro∣fan'd our Eyes and Ears with what is already done. As for our parts, we will retire into the Temple, being of opinion that these humane Sacrifices are abomination to the Gods; we could also wish no Blood of any other Creature to be shed on such account, as knowing that Pray∣ers and bloodless Offerings are most grateful to the Divine Powers. However, your presence, Sir, is necessary, since the customes of the Country exact it, and your people will not otherwise be satisfy'd. Yet you may be sensible that there can be no good event, because the Gods, as you s••••, protect the Strangers, by keeping the Fire from harming them. Having thus said, he, with the rest of his Brotherhood, went away. Then Chari••lea leaping from the Fire, ran to Sysimathres, as he was going, and falling at his feet, (in spight of the Officers that would have hindred her, as supposing she begg'd of him to

••pare her Life) saying, Stay a while, most wise of Men, for I have a Cause to plead before the King and Queen, and know that the Sen∣tence on persons of my Birth, can only be gi∣ven by you: They gladly heard her thus Speak, and Inform'd the King thereof. Hydaspes smi∣led, and askt what Judgment that could be? Or how he could come in any Danger from her? What she shall deliver may inform you, said Sysimathres. But take heed, said he, you do not wrong our Majesty, in making a King to Plead with a Prisoner: Equity and Justice, answer'd Sysimathres, are without distinction of persons: The Law permits you, reply'd Hydaspes, to de∣termine Controversies, between the King and his Subjects, but not with Strangers. Wise and Just Men, return'd Sysimathres, are impartial in destribution of Equity. Well, quoth Hydas∣pes, Let her Speak since Sysimathres desires it; though it be certain She will say nothing to pur∣pose, only some devised matter, as people in her Extremity are apt to do. Chariclea was the more encouraged when She heard Sysimathr••s Name, he being the Person that had first taken her; and Ten years before, had given her to Charicles, when he went Embassador to Oroon∣dates, and even then the Chief of the Gymnoso∣phists. Chariclea knew him not by sight, as be∣ing separated from him so young; yet She re∣membred his Name: Wherefore She hoped that he would now be her Advocate. There∣fore

lifting up her Hands to Heaven, She said a∣loud that all might hear; O Sun, thou Founder of my Pedigree, and all ye other Deities and Glorious Spirits: Bear Witness that I shall deli∣ver nothing but Truth. Then (turning to∣wards the King) Do you command, Sir, Stran∣gers or People of this Country to be offered? Strang••rs said he? Then is it time for you to to provide other Vi••tims; for I am of this Coun∣try, and Born your Sub••ect. He admired here∣at and s••id, She spo••e ••alsly: You wonder at small things answer'd Chariclea; I have yet greater to d••liver, ••eing not only of this Coun∣try, 〈…〉〈…〉 th•• Blood Royal. Hydasp••s at this turn'd aside with Scorn: She th••n proceeded saying, O Fat••e•• do not thus despise and deny your own D••ugh••er: The King th••n fell into Indignation and said, Sysimathres, how long will you abuse our Patience? Is She not distract∣ed, or of insu••••••rable B••l••ness, thus to Claim Kindred with us, to save her Life? You your selves know, that I was never so Fortunate as to have a Child. Wh••r••fore take her away. No Man answer'd she must carry me away, with∣out Command of my Judges: You your self are now judged: Perhaps O King the Law of this Country suffers you to Kill Strangers; but nei∣ther that nor the Law of Nature to Kill your own Children; for that you are my Father the Gods shall prove this Day. All Controversies in Law, consist in Two Points; that is Writings,

and Confirmation by Witnesses. I have both these to prove my self your Daughter: For a Wit∣ness I will produce, no meaner a person than the Judge himself; I will likewise lay Writings be∣fore you, that shall fully express my State. Ha∣ving thus said, She unfolded her Fascia, and gave it to Persina: She no sooner fixt her Eyes thereon, but She was struck with terrour, and disabled from Speaking, at once trembling and glad for what She saw; especially with the sud∣denness of the Chance. Yet was She afraid to expose it, least Hydaspes should give no credit thereunto; and consequently would in••••ict Pun∣ishment on her. He perceiving her so much con∣cern'd, ask'd the meaning. Doth ought in that Writing trouble you? My Lord, King and Husband, said She, I have nothing to say; take and peruse it your self, which will sufficiently inform you: Having given it to him, She sat down again pensive.

When Hydaspes had ran it over with the Gym∣nosophists, he marvelled extreamly, and the more to find Sysimathres, much concern'd and aba••hed: Wherefore a Thousand thoughts ro••e in his mind, he looking often upon the Fascia and often upon the Maid: Having throughly perused it, and found both her Exposition in her Infancy, with the Reason of it: I know, said he, that I once had a Daughter, but was told, and by Persina her self, that She was Dead, but now perceive that She was expos'd in her Infan∣cy.

But who was the Person that found her, took her up, and bred her, I am yet to seek; or who it was that carry'd her into AEgypt. How may I be assur'd that this is She? And whether the Infant that was expos'd be not Dead, while he that found her, took advantage of his good Fortune; to impose on our desire of having a Child, by proposing a Changeling instead; and Colouring the Che••t with this Fascia.

Your first doubt I can clear, answer'd Sysi∣mathres: I was the Person that found the exposed Child, bred her for some time, and carry'd her with me to AEgypt; when on Embassy you sent me thither. You know well, that our order dare not speak untruth: I likewise know the Fascia to be the same by the Royal Characters, and impossible to be counterf••i••ed; even you your self may know Persina's Hand-writing therein: But there were other Testimonals found with this, and by me deliver'd to the Person to whom I gave her, the Man a Greek, and of seeming Honesty. They are also pre∣serv'd, said Charicl••a, and produc'd the Bracelets. Persina was now more astonished: Hydaspes asking her if she knew them? She answer'd she did? And that this Examination would more properly be made at Home; and not in so pub∣lick an Audience. Then was Hydaspes more anxious than before: Then said Chariclea, these Signals were my Mothers, but this, Sir, is pro∣perly your own; giving him the Ring with the

Pantarbe-Stone. Hydaspes knew it, it being the same he gave to Persina, on his Contract with her. I know these tokens, said he to Cha∣riclea; but not that you came by them, as be∣ing my Daughter; for not to insist on other Doubts, your Colour is strange and never seen in AEthiopia. The Infant was also white which I carry'd away (said Sysimathres) besides the time of her Age agrees, it being now Seventeen Years since she was expos'd. Beside I per∣ceive the same Lustre of her Eyes, the same Fair Lineaments, Complexion, and unpar∣rallell'd Beauty. You speak well, said Hydaspes, and rather like a Patron, than Judge of her Cause; but take heed, least in favouring her, you bring question of Scandal upon my Wife: It being impossible, that we being both AEthiops, should have a Fair Child. We call him the best Judge answer'd Sysimathres, who is a Pa∣tron of Equity: But how do we seem more, to Patronize the Maid than you? For your Censure we are not concern'd, whose business is more to approve our selves to the Gods than to Men: So that is enough for us to satisfy our own Co••sciences. As to your Doubt concerning her Colour, the Fascia it self answers it: That Persina conceiv'd a Daughter of this Complex∣ion; by looking on the Picture of Andromeda, in your Bedchamber: If you doubt the likeness, the Picture is here at hand, compare them toge∣ther, you will see no difference between the Li∣ving and Painted Virgin.

When they were set together, the Beholders were surpriz'd at the Resemblance, which rais'd a great noise; those who stood nearer, inform∣ing them that were at more distance: So that Hydaspes himself could no longer doubt, but stood Speec••less with Joy and Admiration. At last there is one thing yet wanting: O Sysimathres, said he, the••e was a certain Speck or Mole above my Daughters Right Elbow: which was found also on Charicl••a.

P••rsina could no longer contain her self, but leaping from the Throne, threw her Arms a∣bout her Neck, weeping for Joy, and almost ready to faint away. The same Parental Affe∣ction seiz'd Hydaspes, though with more manly Government, yet he also embraced her, and not without Tears. After this, waving his Hand, he silenced the buzzing amongst the Croud. O you that are present, said he, you have seen and heard me this day prov'd a Father beyond all expectation. Yet such is my regard to you, that waving the care of Succession and Paternal Joy, I am for your sakes ready to deli∣ver her up to the Gods in Sacrifice: For thoug•• I see you also concern'd for the Misfortune of so fair a Virgin, yet whether you will or no, I must perform the Custom of our Country, and prefer the publick Interest to private Affe∣ction.

Having thus spoken, he took Chariclea by the Hand, as to lead her to the Altar; at which

the whole multitude set up a Cry, not su••fering him to lead her one step forward, but calling out save the Maid, save her whom the Gods would have preserv'd: We return you our thanks, our Laws are satisfy'd. We ac••now∣ledge you our King, do you acknowledge your self a Father. There is no man that will lay Hands on her; you that are Father of your Country, be Father of your own House: These and many more such Expressions were utter'd; downright resisting his Proposal, and saying, the Gods would be satisfy'd with other O••ferings. Hydaspes su••fer'd himself to be overcome, and took pleasure in the Violence.

Standing therefore next to Chariclea, dearest, said he, that you are our Daughter, the proofs are sufficient; but who is this Youth, who was taken Prisoner with you, and is now set before the Altar? or how could you call him Brother, when you were together brought into my Pre∣sence at Syene? For how shall he be found our Son? For Persina has but once been deliver'd, and that only of your self. Charicl••a blushing and casting her Eyes on the ground, I feign'd him indeed to be my Brother in that Exigence, but who he is, he himself will better inform you. Do you therefore take place by your Mother on the Tribunal; filling her with great∣er joy, than when she first Bore you; entertain her with the History of your Affairs, while I take care for the Sacrifices, and choose some

Virgin to be made a Victim in your stead, with the Gr••cian Youth.

Chariclea could scarce forbear crying out at the mention hereof, but governing her Affection, once more attempted him in these words:

O Sir, there is no need to seek for another of my Sex, since the people have excused me: But if you must, there must also another Youth be found, or if that be not done, no other Maid, for I my self must also die: For the Gods have determin'd me to Live and Die with him.

Hydaspes not yet understanding her, said, I commend this Humanity in you Daughter, towards a Grecian and Stranger, the Companion of your Exile; but it is impossible to exempt him from Sacrifice without Violation of our Religion, neither will the people dispense therewith. O King, answer'd she, if I may not call you Fa∣ther, if the Mercy of the Gods has spared my Body, the same Clemency will spare my Soul: But if the Destinies must have it so, that this Youth must needs adorn the Ceremonies, grant me yet one Request, that he may be kill'd by my Hand.

What Contradictions are these (said Hydaspes) the Person whom but now as a Friend you en∣deavour'd to save, you now beg leave to Kill with your own Hand as an Enemy. I see, but grant it might, you may not be permit••ed, it being only lawful for the Priests of the Sun and Moon, and amongst them only the High Priest,

that has a Wife and Priestess, who has a Husband. All this can be no hinderance reply'd Chariclea.

Hydaspes considering her late proof of Virgin Estate by enduring the Fire, thought her discom∣pos••d in her S••nses, and desired his Wi••e to dis∣course with her apart, to bring her to her self. In the mean time, I will give Audience to the Embassadours that wait to congratulate our Victory; and till another Vi••gin be Elected in her stead. Having thu•• spok••n, he ascended a Chair of State not far distant from the Ta∣bernacle, commanding the Embass••dours to come before him with their Presents. The Master of Ceremoni•••• Harmonious, ask'd if all should be admitted together, or if they should come distinctly, according to the Dignity of their respective Na••ions: In order, said Hydaspes. Shall Merabus your Brothers Son come first, said the Officer? Stupid Man, said Hydaspes, why did you not instant••y inform me of his Arrival, whom you know to be no Legate but a King, Son to my Brother, Heir to his Throne, and my own adopted Successour? As soon therefore as Merabus came near his Presence, a Manly Youth and tall of Stature surpassing all about him, the AEthiopian Guards with respect, made way for him.

Hydaspes came down from his Throne to meet him, embracing him with paternal Courtesie, and saying; you come in good time, my Son, to assist our Triumphant Rites, and also your

own Nuptial Ceremonies: Since the Gods, who were Authors of our Love, have, beyond all ex∣pectation, produced a Daughter for us, and for you a Bride. Of this affair more at leisure; at present, if you have any thing to mention on behalf of your Country, declare it. Meraebus at mention of a Wife, blushed so as to have it perceiv'd through the duskiness of his Comple∣xion. After a little pause, Other persons, said he, will present you with the best Rareties of their Country to adorn your Triumph, but I, with what I judg'd most suitable to your Mar∣tial Temper, for a Present offer you a Sword∣man, inur'd to Blood, and exercised in Arms, so that none dare oppose him; in Wrestling, Whirl-bat, or any other Warlike Exercise, of such Skill and Strength, that none are able to con∣tend with him. Accordingly he beckon'd to have him brought in presence.

He therefore came forward, and was of that stature, that when he stooped to salute Hy∣daspes Knees, he still seem'd tall as any of the rest. Immediately, without waiting for Com∣mand, he stripped himself before all the compa∣ny, challenging any person to single Combat. When none appear'd, though the King often summon'd, by the Herald; You shall receive, said Hydaspes to him, a Present fit for your Cou∣rage and Bulk; withal commanding an Ele∣phant, of vast Magnitude, to be brought forth for him: He willingly receiv'd it. The peo∣ple,

when the Beast appear'd, laughed extreme∣ly at the pleasant Humour of the King. With this Derision taking Revenge on him whom they did not dare to encounter. After Merae∣bus, were admitted the Embassadours from the Seri, bringing two Vestments, made by In∣sects of their Country, the one of Tyrian Dye, the other Snowy White. Having tender'd their presents, they were rewarded by the King, with Release of certain Prisoners in his custody.

The Arabian Legates came next, with Spices and Perfumes, the product of their Country, in such quantities, that they perfum'd all the Air around. After them, the Trogloditae, with Gold, and Griffins with Golden Bridles. Then the Blemmi, with Arrows made of Dragons Bones, and made up in circular form: And these, O King, said they, we present you with less costly than others Offerings, but of Service to you against the Persians on the Rivers Bank. They are more esteem'd by us, said Hydaspes, than so many Talents of Gold, withal inviting them to make what Demands they pleased. When they requested abatement of Tribute, he released it to them for ten years successively.

When these had thus made their Comple∣ments (most of them being r••munerated by the King with richer gifts than what they brought) in the last place came the Axiomati, who indeed paid no Tribute, but were in League with him. They also brought Presents; amongst others,

an Animal of strange Form and Nature, of the size of a Camel, but of spotted Skin, and co∣ver'd with Scales. His hinder parts and Belly like a Lion, his fore Legs and Shoulders exceed∣ing other Members; a long Neck, and waxing very slender, from so large a Body: His Head resembling a Camel, in bigness twice exceeding the Lybian Ostrich, horribly rowling his Eyes, that seem'd as if enflam'd with Red Lead. His Gate was still more strange, being like no o∣ther Animals, but moving the two Legs on his Right Side together, and then those on his Left, carrying forward first the one Side of his Body and then the other. Of temper so tame and gentle b•• use, that his master led him up and down, with a small Cord in his Hand. When this Creature appear'd, the multitude were a∣maz'd, and gave him from his Various Shape, the name of Camelopardalis. He was the occasi∣on of a great Disorder which thus happen'd.

There were a Yoak of Bulls placed before the Altar of the Moon, four White Horses at the Altar of the Sun, ready for the Sacrifice. The Horses spying this strange Monster, were so terrify'd that two of them broke out of their hands that held them, as also one of the Bulls, and ran out wild. They could not however break through the press, the Souldiers joining in a Ring, and with their Shields obstructing their passage. They were at once the occasion of great Laughter and Terrour; the persons at

distance shouting to see others born down, and trodden by them: All things were over∣turn'd that stood in their way. The Cla∣mour was so great, that Persina and Chariclea, open'd the Curtain to look out. At this time Theagenes, whether out of his Natural Vigour, or Inspiration from the Gods, seeing his Keep∣ers dispers'd with the fright, started up from the Altar where he kneel'd, and snatching from thence a cleft stick, leap'd on the Back of one of the Horses that were left, and using his Main for a Bridle, forc'd him on, and turn'd the Bull that had broke loose. The Spectators at first thought that he intended to make his escape, and set up a cry that they should not suffer him to pass. But they soon perceived he had no such intention: For pursuing the Bull, and catching hold of his Tail, he drove him before him, dex∣trously avoiding his short Turns. With this management he so brake his Mettle, that he now suffer'd him to ride side by side to him, in∣somuch that the Sweat of each Beast mingled with the other.

They ran with their Heads so even together, that the people, at distance, took the Horse and Bull for one Creature, and applauded Theag••nes as the Author of a Miracle. Thus were all the Multi∣tude employ'd. Chariclea in the mean time look'd on with horrour, not knowing what he intended and fear'd more for his danger than for her own Life when lately at Stake. Persina perceiv'd her

concern, and said to her, You are troubled, Daughter, for this Stranger; I confess I cannot my self help pitying his Youth, but yet I hope he will escape this hazard, and be preserv'd safe for the Sacrifice. How absurd is it (answer'd Cha∣riclea) to wish him to escape Death, that he may Dye! But, Oh Mother, if you can save his Life, you will do a thing most grateful to me! Per∣sina partly suspecting her passion, said, Though it be impossible for me to preserve him, yet take Courage to acquaint me with your concern with this Stranger; if it has not been altogether ve••∣tuous, yet a Mothers kindness knows how to in∣dulge the frailty of a Child. Chariclea then wept bitterly, and cry'd out, 'Tis the extre∣mity of my Misfortune to speak to understand∣ing persons, yet not be understood; but must be forced to an open and gross Confession.

As she was now going to reveal the whole matter, she was once more hindred by a new shout amongst the people. Theagenes having now fronted the Bull, quitted his Horse, leaped on the Bulls Neck, and clasping his Arms round the roots of his Horns, his Hands fasten'd in his Fore-head Tassock, his Face lying between the Horns, the rest of his Body hanging with all its weight, down over the Beasts right Shoulder, insomuch that he was often trod upon; yet he so incumbred his passage by this means, and tired him, that directly over against the place where Hydaspes sate, he tumbled down on his Head, but so

that his Hoofs were turn'd uppermost, and his Horns struck into the Sand, so that his Head seem'd fast rooted to the Earth; his Legs all the while sprawling in the Air. Th••agenes also still held him down with his Left Hand, his Right lifted up towards Heaven; and thus with generous Countenance survey'd Hydaspes and the Company; provoking them to Laughter with the spectacle; the Bull all the while with Bellowing, like a Martial Trumpe••, sounding his Conquest: The people answer'd with shouts, and promiscuously gabbling, extoll'd him to the Skies. The Kings Servants, therefore, as they were order'd, some led Theagen••s to the King, others fastning Ropes to the Bulls Head, led him with the Horses once more to the Alar. Hydaspes beginning some discourse with Theagenes, the people who were pleas'd with his Person from the first mi∣nute they saw him, but now stupisy'd at his Strength and Courage, in the last place envying the Honour given to Meraebus his AEthiopian Wrestler, with one Cry, demanded that he who had received the Elephant, should engage in single Combat with him that conquer'd the Bull. When they had long pressed for it, Hy∣daspes at last consented. The AEthiop was im∣mediately put into the middle of the Circle, sternly and proudly surveying all around him, stretching himself, and taking lofty vast steps, compassing an Ell at every stride.

When he was come up before the Council, Hydaspes spoke to Theagenes in Greek; It is the p••oples desire that you undertake this Combat: Let it be so, said Th••agenes, But after what manner? Wrestling, said Hydaspes: Why not rather with Swords, said Theagenes, by which some Honour might be gain'd; at least, with my De••th, content Chariclea, who, I find con∣ceals our affairs, and forsakes me at the last. What you mean by mentioning Chariclea, said Hy∣d••sp••s, I know not; but you must Wrestle, and not fight with Swords; for we may not suffer any Blood to be shed before that of Sacrifice. He understanding Hydaspes's meaning, that he fear'd lest he shoul•• be kill'd before he dy'd in Sacri∣fice; You do well, said he, to reserve me for the Gods. With these words he put himself in posture: fixing his Feet firmly to the ground, his whole Body put in the best order: Thus he impatiently waited the assault of his Adversary.

The AEthiop seeing this, with a look of Deri∣sion and Indignation mixt together, ran furi∣ously upon him, hitting Theagenes on the Neck with his Elbow, as heavily as if he had struck him with a Leaver; then drawing back, laugh∣ed out aloud at his own performance.

Theagenes, who was vers'd from his Child∣hood in Exercises, knew that such robustuous Strength, was not directly to be engag'd, but deluded by Art, expos'd the other side of his Neck for a second blow, which the Barbarian repeated,

and then withdrew as before: He therefore now despising him, and coming on the third time more carelessly, Theagen••s slipping under his Elbow, and clasping his Arms round his wast, which he was scarce able to embrace, cast him quite over his Shoulders, and pitcht him all on a Heap, with his Head first to the ground, to the hazard of his Neck. The people now Shou∣ted louder than before; nor could Hydaspes lon∣ger contain himself, but leaping down from his Throne, cry'd; O hard necessity of Law, what a Noble Youth are we compell'd to destroy. Then calling him to him, said, it only now re∣mains, that thou be Crown'd for the Sacrifice. This Famous though unserviceable Victory, de∣serves a Crown: That I should set you free is not in my Power, but as much as I can do in favour of you, I will; so that if you have any request to make to me before you Die, propose it. With these words, he put a Golden wreath on his Head, beset with Diamonds. Grant me therefore, said Theagenes, what I shall request, since you have promis'd it. If I may not escape being sacrific'd, at le••st let me be Kill'd, by the Hand of your new found Daughter.

Hydaspes was stung at this motion, reflecting on Chariclea's request, which was like this, yet thought it not worth his whil••, nicely to search the matter: Those things, O Stranger, said he, which were in my Power, I commanded you to ask, and promis'd that I would grant: The

Law exacts, That the Slayer of the Sacrifice, be a Wife and no Virgin. But she has a Husband, answer'd Theagenes: You rave, said Hydaspes, and these are words of a person under Consterna∣tion of Death. The Fire has prov'd her free from Man: Unless you call Meraebus here her Husband, nor can I guess how you could come to surmize so much, neither is he yet her Hus∣band, but in Intention only: Neither shall he ever ••e, said Theagenes, if I know any thing of Chariclea's mind; or as Divine Sacrifice, can fore-shew any future event. But Sacrifices, said Meraebus, can give no Divination till they are Slain, and their Intrals laid open. Where∣fore, O Father, you have rightly Spoken, that the Stranger raves with apprehension of Death. Therefore if you please, let some body take him to the Altar. Theagenes was accordingly led a∣way: But Chariclea, who was a little relieved at his Victory, and conceiv'd better hopes; when she saw him led again to the Altar, relaps'd into Sorrow. Persina comforted her, saying, it was yet possible for him to be rescu'd, if she would plainly and fully declare, what she de∣manded to know. Chariclea found there was no longer time for delay, and therefore freely began, to tell the principal parts of her Story. Hydas∣pes in the mean time, ask'd by his Officers, if there were any of the Embassadours yet unan∣swer'd? Only the Syeneans, answer'd Harmoni∣as, who wait with Letters from Oroondates.

They are newly arriv'd, and bring matters of some moment: Let them also appear, said Hydas∣pes.

Accordingly they were brought, presenting the Letters which Hydaspes read, of these Con∣tents:

To the Merciful and Fortunate King of the AE∣thiopians, Oroondates, Deputy to the Great King.

SInce after Conquest over me in Field, you again overcame me in Clemency, restoring me to my Office, it will not seem strange, if you farther grant me a small request: A certain Virgin, as she was led along, became your Prisoner of War; that she was by you sent into AEthiopia, I am inform'd: Her I intreat you to restore to me, not only for her own sake, but her Fathers, for whom I would pre∣serve her. He has travelled far in search of her, and was taken Prisoner during the War by my Garrison at Elephantina: He has therefore desi∣red me to recommend him to your Clemency. You have him therefore amongst other Legates, such a Person as by his Aspect may be known to be Noble, and deserve what he shall beg at your hands. S••nd him therefore back to me pleased, and rejoice the heart of a disconsolate Father.

When Hydaspes had read this, he ask'd which was the Person amongst the Legates, who was

mention'd in the Letters, who is in search of his Daughter: When they shew'd him the Old man, O Stranger, said Hydaspes, I will do all that Oroondates has desired: Ten Virgin Captives only we brought away, and whereas one of them is known not to be her, do you survey the other Nine; and if you find her, take her. The Old Man fell down to embrace his feet, and sur∣veying the Virgins, as they were brought before him, found not her amongst them; therefore he sorrowfully said, None of these, O King, is she. I was ready to gratify you, said Hydaspes, you must blame your fortune if you cannot find her; for you are free to satisfie your self that none other came with our Camp.

When the Old Man had bent his brows, and wept a while, he lifted up his Eyes, surveying the Company around, and of a sudden ran forth as if he had been mad. When he was come up to the Altar, taking off his Cloak, and twisting it like a Rope, he cast it about Theagenes his Neck, and cry'd out in all their hearing, I have found thee, O my Enemy, I have gotten thee, thou mischievous and accursed Man! The Offi∣cers would have taken him off, but he would not quit his hold, till he had leave to bring him before Hydaspes and the Council; to whom he addrest himself in this manner, O King, said he, this Man is the Robber that has taken away my Daughter even from the Temple of Apollo, and now, like a pious person, he kneels before

the Altar. All were astonish'd at what he said, not understanding the Words, but surpriz'd with the Action and Manner.

Hydaspes commanding him to speak more plainly, Charicles (for he was the Old Man) conceal'd the Truth concerning Chariclea, fear∣ing lest if she were dead by the way, he should be troubled by her true Parent••. But he thus briefly utter'd what could li••••l•• harm him. I had a Daughter, O King, if 〈◊〉〈◊〉 had seen how beautiful and surpassing in Wisdom, you would not blame my Sorrow. She led her Life in Virginity, and was Priestess to Diana, which is worshipp'd at Delphos. That Maid, this bold Thessalian, has stoln out of the Temple of A∣pollo, while officiating a Holy Embassage to that City; during the Celebration of our Festival. He must therefore be censur'd, to have offend∣ed your God the Sun (who is all one with our Apollo, and done Sacrilege on his Temple. A false Priest of Memphis, was also his Companion in this hainous Fact. I went to Memphis in search of them, which I suppos'd to be the place, whither Calasiris would go: When I arrived there, I found that he was Dead, and was in∣form'd by his Son Thyamis, of all that had be∣faln to my Daughter; wherefore you shall well perform the part of a King, in accepting the Deputies request on my behalf. Here he held his peace, and wept most bitterly. What say you to this, said Hydaspes, turning to Theagenes?

All that he has laid to my Charge (answer'd Theagenes) is true: As to him, I am a Robber, but to you, I have perform'd good Service. Restore therefore, (said Hydaspes) what is not your own, to become a pure Sacrifice to the Gods. Not he that did the wrong (said The∣agenes) ought to make restitution; but he that has the benefit: Seeing therefore you have her, do you restore her, Chariclea is the Person, whom he also will own to be your Daughter. No man could longer contain himself: Sysi∣mathres kept silence along time, notwithstand∣ing he knew the whole Mystery, till it were bolted out by little and little: Then coming forth, he Embraced Charicles, and said, your Adoptive Daughter, whom I once deliver'd to you, is well, found, and prov'd to be Daugh∣ter to the King, which you your self, also well know. Chariclea also ran forth from the Ta∣bernacle, like one distracted, without regard to her quality, or years, and falling at Charicles his Feet, said, O Father, no less dear to me, than my natural Parent, take what revenge you please upon me, notwithstanding, all the excuse that I have of the Gods, Commands for what I did.

Persina also turning to Hydaspes, said, assure your self, Sir, that it is so, This young Grecian is your Daughters Husband. The people were overjoy'd at the Discovery, though they imper∣fectly, understood it, or rather were Divinely

inspired, with the knowledge thereof. Con∣traries were reconcil'd to attend this Wonder; Sorrow being joyn'd with Mirth, and Tears with Smiles: The cruel Slaughter, which was every moment expected, turn'd into a Holy and Bloodless Sacrifice.

O Wisest of Men, said Hydaspes to Sysimathres, instruct us what we are to do? to decline the Sacrifice of the Gods, is Sacrilege, and to Kill the Innocent, and such as they favour, Impious.

Then Sysimathres (not in the Grecian Lan∣guage as before) but in AEthiopian, to be under∣stood of all, thus exprest himself. O King, said he, Darkness is sometimes thrown over the most descerning Understandings, to produce the greater joy. You ought long since, to have been sensible, That the Gods would not permit this Sacrifice, resolving to make your Daughter Chariclea, happy in all her desires; accordingly they have hither brought her Foster-father, from the midst of Greece: They have likewise sent Frights and Disorder to disturb the Sacri∣fices, as signifying, that more agreeable O••fer∣ings should be made: They have lastly shewn you, a Bridegroom for your Daughter; this Grecian Youth, whom they have with Mira∣cles deliver'd. Wherefore let us obey their plea∣sure, and no more offend them with humane Victims, whose best Sacrifices, are Prayers and Obedience.

Sysimathres having said this with an audible

voice, Hydaspes took Theagenes and Charicle•• by the Hand, saying, you who are present, and see that these things are come to pass, by the direction of the Divine Powers, whose will it is impossible to resist, since you also seem to ap∣prove their Choice, bear Witness to the Nupti∣als, which I here ratifie; which we will far∣ther confirm by Holy Rites, and so let us fall to Worshiping our Gods. The whole Army, with redoubled Shouts and Clapping their Hands, ex∣prest their consent to the match.

Hydaspes then approach'd the Altars, and rea∣dy to begin the Solemnities, said, O Sun our Lord, and Moon our Patroness: Since Theage∣nes and Chariclea, are by your good Will, declared Husband and Wife, I doubt not, but you will accept their O••ferings, and suffer them to do Sacrifice in our Steads. Having thus said, he took the Mitres, the Ensigns of Priesthood, from his own and Persina's Head, placing them on Theagenes and Chariclea. When this was done, Charicles call'd to mind, the Oracle deli∣ver'd to him at Delphi, was now compleated, which foretold concerning this Young Pair, that they should arrive at a Soil parch'd with Heat;

Where their prov'd Vertue, just rewards should wear, And Snowy Wreaths from Sun-burnt Temples bear.

Being thus Crown'd with Mitres, and vested with Priesthood by Hydaspes, the Ceremonies

being now finish'd with lighted Torches by their sides, they were Born in Chariots, with Con∣sorts of Flutes and other In••truments: Theage∣nes with Hydaspes, Sysimathres in another Cha∣riot with Charicles, Persina in another with Chariclea: With Musick and Congratulations towards the City: Where the more retir'd Ce∣remonies appertaining to the Nuptials were to be perform'd.

FINIS.