Part of Lucian made English from the originall, in the yeare 1638 by Jasper Mayne ..., to which are adjoyned those other dialogues of Lucian as they were formerly translated by Mr. Francis Hicks.

Toxaris, or a Discourse of Friendship.

The Speakers Mnesippus a Greeke, Toxaris a Scythian.

Mnesipp.

WHat say you, Toxaris? do you Scythians Sacrifice to Orestes, and Pylades, and take them for Gods?

Toxaris.

We Sacrifice to them, Mnesippus, but hold them not Gods, but good men.

Mnesipp.

Have you a Custome, then, to Sacrifice to good men departed as to Gods?

Toxaris.

That's not all; we honour them with Festi∣vals, and solemne assemblies too.

Mnesipp.

Vpon what designe? your oblations cannot draw good influences from them being dead.

Toxaris.

'Twere not amisse, if the dead were propitious to us. But we thinke we much advantage the living by our Commemoration of excellent men; and do therefore honour them dead; out of our perswasion that many of us will thereby be wrought into their example.

Mnesipp.

You do well. But why do you so much admire Pylades and Orestes, and equall them to the Gods, being but strangers to you, or, which is more, enemies? For be∣ing cast ashore by shipwracke, and apprehended by the Scythians of those times, to be Sacrificed to Diana, they as∣sail'd their Keepers, forced the prison, slew the King, sur∣prized the Priest, ravisht away your Goddesse, and sayl'd away with her, to the contempt and scorne of your pub∣licke Scythian Lawes. If for this you adore them, 'twill be easie for you to drawe many into their Imitation. With reflection, therefore, upon this ancient passage, consider whether it would be safe for you that more Orestes's

and Pylades's should land in Scythia. For methinkes you would thereby in short time become irreligious, and A∣theists; should your Gods, which remaine, in like manner be transported from your Country: and should you in their stead Deifie those who came to transport them; and reward their sacriledge with oblations. Or, if for this you worship not Pylades and Orestes, but for some other good confer'd upon you, why, holding them not anci∣ently for Gods, do you now give them divine honours, as if they were? and why doe you sacrifice to them, who themselves had like to have beene made sacrifices? This to mee seemes ridiculous, and contrary to your former pra∣ctice.

Toxaris.

These, which you have repeated, were their generous exployts, Mnesippus. Who being but two durst put themselves upon such a bold attempt, as being so farre distant from home, to sayle the Pontus, a sea not tryed before by any Graecians, but those who made the expediti∣on into Colchos in the Argo; neither daunted, nor affright∣ed with the fables which goe of it, or with those names which call it Inhospitable, from the savagenesse, I believe, of those rude nations which inhabit the Coasts. And when they were apprehended, to take courage from their misfortune, and not to thinke a bare escape enough, but to revenge their wrongs upon the King, and to sayle away with our Diana, how can such valiant Atchievements but raise Admiration, and deserve divine honour from all men who have any taste of vertue? Though we hold not Ore∣stes and Pylades for Demi-gods, and worthyes from those reflections.

Mnesipp.

Say, then, what other brave or divine enter∣prize was wrought by them. For as for their navigation and travels, I can show you many Merchants much divi∣ner then they. For instance, the Phoeincians, who sayle not onely into Pontus, Maeotis, and the Bosphorus, but mea∣sure all seas, both Graecian, and Barbarous, and making,

as I may so say, and yearly search after all Coasts, and shoares, returne home late in Autumne. Whom for the same reason you may style Gods, though perhaps they be but Hucksters and Fish-mongers.

Toxaris.

Heare, then, admired Sir, and consider how much our opinion of good men, who are Barbarians, is nobler then yours. For no famous monument of Orestes and Pylades is to be seene at Argos, or Mycenae. But wee can show a Temple equally, as 'twas fit, built to both, as they were friends; where sacrifices are offer'd, and other rites of honour are performed. Nor do vve thinke them good men the lesse, because they vvere forrainers, and not Scythians; nor do vve examine, so they be vertuous, and honest, from vvhence they are, nor repine at great Acti∣ons, though vvrought by men not our friends: But ra∣ther applauding their adventures, entitled them to our selves by their deeds. But that vvhich in those men vve do vvith most admiration extoll is, that they appeared to us a paire of unequall'd friends; and made their example a Lavv to others, Hovv, vvith their friendship, to partake in all fortunes too, and thereby gaine the veneration of the best Scythians. Whatsoever, therefore, they mutually suffer'd for, or with one another, our Ancestors engra∣ven in a pillar of Brasse, which they erected in Oreste's Temple, and made a Law that their childrens first lesson and peece of education should be to remember what was there carved. So that it is easier for them to forget the name of their father, then be ignorant of the deeds of Orestes and Pylades. In the porch of the Temple, also, is to be seene shadowed in Antique Imagery all that is written on the pillar. Orestes sayling with his friend, then their ship broken, and wrack't against steepe rockes; then he apprehended, and drest for Immolation, and both consecrated by Iphigenia. On the opposite wall he is drawne freed from his shackles, slaying Thoas, and many other Scythians; Then hoysing sayles, and conveying a∣way

Iphigenia, and our Goddesse. Then the Scythians vainly striving to stop the floating Barke, by laying hold on the Sterne, and labouring to get aboard. Lastly, Failing in their attempt, some wounded, others for feare returning to the shoare. But the most remarkable passage is the mutuall friendship they show'd in their Skirmish with the Scythians. For the Painter hath limbed them both se∣verally carelesse of his owne assaylers, and solicitous only to encounter those who beset the other, and to divert his darts; not at all weighing his owne slaughter, so he might save his friend; and interposing his owne body to receive those strokes which were directed to the others. This their mutuall assistance, and communion in misfortunes, Their fidelity in friendship, ruth and constancy of affections, ap∣peared to us no mortall vertues, but endowments of a mind advanced above the vulgar: who in prosperous times will take resentment at their friends, if they share not in their successes; But let the wind blow a little ad∣versly, they fly away and leave them solitary in their dan∣gers. For you must know, that the Scythians prize no∣thing so much as friendship, nor will a true Scythian think any thing so glorious as to succour his friend, and partake in his distresses: And therefore among us no infamy is so great, as to be held a Traytor in Friendship. The reason, then, why wee honour Orestes, and Pylades, is, because they excell'd in Scythian virtues, and were approved in friendship, a thing most in our admiration. From these proceedings of theirs we have given them a name, and call'd them Coraci; which in our Language is as much as to say, the Gods of friendship.

Mnesipp.

Believe mee, Toxaris, you Scythians are not onely good Archers, and better warriers then others, but the best perswaders, and Oratours too. For though I once thought otherwise, yet now, methinkes, 'tis but ju∣stice that you have placed Orestes and Pylades among the Gods. This only I knew not, that you were a good pain∣ter

too. Trust mee, you have most livingly described the peeces in Orestes Temple, as also their Encounters, and wounds received for one another. But I thought friend∣ship had not beene so sacred among the Scythians; but that being a people barbarous and wilde, they had nou∣risht mutuall strifes, quarrels, and disagreements, and had not held friendship with their neerest Alliances and Do∣mesticks; Being led to this opinion by that report, which among others I have heard, that they eate their departed Ancestors.

Toxaris.

Whether, as in other things, so in the reve∣rence of our Ancestours we be more religious, and pious then you Greekes, for the present I dispute not. But that Scythian friends are much faithfuller, then Grecians, and that friendship is more regarded among us then you, I shall easily make appeare. By the Gods of Greece, therefore, I desire you not to heare mee impatiently, whilst I recount what I observed during the large time of my conversa∣tion here. You, indeed, seeme abler then others to talke of friendship; but, contrary to your high discourses, doe so neglect the works of it, that you hold it sufficient to praise it, and to show what an ample vertue 'tis. But when you should come to use it, you fall from your words, and ta∣king wing, I know not how, shift your selves from the practice. And when you see such rare friendships pre∣sented on the stage in a Tragedy, you applaud, and clap hands; and when you see them mutually engaged in one anothers dangers, many of you shed teares: yet you your selves attempt nothing praise worthy for your friend. But if he chance to be distrest, presently, like dreames, all the Tragedy you saw flyes away and vanishes; and leaves you like those hollow, and dumbe vizards, which broadly di∣stend their mouth, and gape widely, but speake not the least word: whereas wee, by how much we come short in our discourses of Friendship, by so much we excell you in the practice. If you like the motion, therefore, let us

passe over those ancient friends which lived heretofore, and which either you, or we are able to muster up: be∣cause herein you overcome us, being fortified by many authenticke authorities, especially Poets, who have sung the friendship of Achilles, and Patroclus, Theseus and Pe∣rithous, and others in most excellent Poem and verse. And let us select, and produce some few among our selves, and report the deeds, I of Scythians, you of Greekes. And let him that overcomes, and produces the best examples in friendship, be Conquerour, and divulge his conquest, as having vanquisht in a most glorious combate. For my part, if I be worsted in the Duell, I had much rather have my right hand cut off (the punishment among us of the vanquish't) then be thought inferiour to any Grecian in Friendship, being my selfe a Scythian.

Mnesipp.

'Tis no small enterprize, Toxaris, to enter the Lists with such a Warriour as you are, so well appointed with darts and arrowes of Language, yet will I not in∣gloriously upon the first encounter betray my Countrey▪ and yield to you. For 'twere most absurd that two should overcome such Troopes of Scythians, as the Histories and ancient pictures which you just now so exactly described, testifie; and that so many Greeke Nations, and Citties, should without defence be vanquish't by you single; which should I permit, 'twere fit, that not only my right hand, as your custome is, but my tongue should be cut out. But by what account shall wee proceed; by the number of adventures in Friendship, or shall he that can give most instances of Friends be held the Conquerour.

Toxaris.

By no meanes: victory ought not to be reckon'd here by multitude. But if your examples appeare more excellent, and piercing then mine, though their number be equall, they will with more advantage wound mee, and I shall willingly mee••e your strokes.

Mnesipp.

You say well: let us agree then upon the num∣ber.

Toxaris,

I thinke five for each sufficient.

Mnesipp.

So do I. Begin then; but sweare first to speake nothing but Truths. Otherwise, 'twill not be hard for you to coyne such examples as are not capable of dis∣proofe, but being sworne 'twere irreligious to distrust you.

Toxaris.

Let us both take an oath, then, if you thinke fit.

Mnesipp.

By which of our Gods shall I sweare? doe you like Iupiter Philius?

Toxaris.

I doe: and will sweare in my language by ano∣ther of my Country Gods.

Mnesipp.

Be Iupiter, the Protector of Friends witnesse, then, that what I shall now report to you, either I have my selfe seene, or, upon the most exact information to me possible, I have received from others, and that I will faine nothing of my selfe. First, I will relate the Friend∣ship of Agathocles, and Dinias, famous among the Ioni∣ans. This Agathocles, by birth a Samian, lived not long since. A man unequall'd in friendship, as he gave good Testimony, though in other things, as Pedigree, and greatnesse of fortune, he nothing differ'd from the other vulgar Samians. He was from his childhood friend to Dinias, the Ephesian, the sonne of Lysio. This Dinias was left exceeding rich. And as it falls out with men newly come to greatestates, had many acquaintances about him fit to associate him in Potations and Drinkings, and con∣versations of Pleasure; but were mere strangers to Friend∣ship. Among those was Agathocles, who converst and drunke with them, not pleased with the course. Nor did Dinias value him more then his other flatterers. But at length became offended with his frequent reprehensions, and held him troublesome, for remembring him of his Ancestours, and counselling to keepe what his father, with much industry possest, and left him. So that hee no longer admitted him to their Revellings, but continued

his disorders privately with them; though with some con∣cealment from Agathocles. It happen'd that the unfortu∣nate man was perswad••d by his flatterers that he was be∣loved of Chariclea, the wife of Demonax, a man of great Quality and Office, among the Ephesians; letters, also, were brought to him from the woman, and chaplets halfe wither'd, and apples just tasted, and whatsoever Bawdes usually project for the enticement of young men, when they would insinuate affection into them, and in∣flame them with an opinion that they are first beloved. For such Arts prevaile much▪ especially with such as think themselves handsome, till unawares they fall into the net. This Chariclea was a Courtly woman, but extraordinari∣ly a whore; alwaies his, who approach't her upon the least suite. If any man but glanced at her, she presently returned a consent; so little feare was there of her denyals. But withall, she was more artificially cunning then all o∣ther whores, to allure her servant••, and to keepe him doubtfull, till she had wholly vanquisht him. And when he was once caught, to whet him on, and enflame him sometimes with quarrels, sometimes with enticements, soone after with disdaine, and jealousie, of her inclinati∣on to another. In a word, she was every way expert, and practiced in the arts how to deale with her Lovers. Her, then, Dinias flatterers projected for the youth, and laid many traines to kindle his love towards Chariclea. She, who had already beene the ruine of many such▪ and had acted innumerable affections, and like a changeable, and exercised mischiefe, had subverted many families, ha∣ving got into her hands a youth, simple, and unexperien∣ced in such stratagems, suffer'd him not to escape her clut∣ches, but inclining, and ensnaring him on all sides, when she had wholly caught him, she herselfe seemed taken in the snare, and became to miserable Dinias the originall of numberlesse mischiefes. For, first, she sent him letters, which were frequently seconded by her maid, who told

him how her Mistris wept, and broke her sleepes; Last∣ly, how she, wretched woman, meant to strangle her selfe for Love. Till hee became perswaded that he was most happy, amiable, and beyond measure affected by the Ephe∣sian wives. At length, with much intreaty, he gave her a meeting, and from that time you may guesse how ea∣sily he was to be caught by a woman beautifull, of a plea∣sant behaviour, skill'd to weepe when shee list, and to mingle compassionate sighs with discourses, to twine a∣bout him at his departures, and to meete his approaches; to adorne herselfe in Dresses of most enticement, and some∣times to sing, and play on her Lute; All which arts shee imployed upon Dinias. But when shee perceived him once perplext, and sufficiently steept, and melted in Love, that shee might utterly ruine the wretch, shee contrived this plot: she fained her selfe with child by him, (a sure device the more to inflame a besotted Lover) and forbore farther visits, out of a pretence that she was observed by her husband▪ who had some Jealousies of their Love. He unable to beare the separation, and impatient when he savv her not, vvept, and assembled his flatterers, and dolefully invok't Charcilea's name, and embracing her statue made of Alablaster, made pittifull lamentation. At last, he cast himselfe downe, and rould himselfe upon the floore, and fell into a perfect distraction. Hereupon gifts vvere sent to her, not in value like her Apples, or Chaplets, but entire houses, farmes, servants, embroyder'd garments, and gold as much as she desired. What shall I say more? In short time Lysios family, the most renovvned among the Ionians, vvas vvasted and spent. She having thus dravvne him dry, forsooke him, and layd her engines for a certaine rich Cretan young Gentleman, to vvhom she re∣volted and made Love, vvhich he believed. Dinias thus neglected not onely of Chariclea, but of his flatterers, vvho also applyed themselves to the Cretan Lover, addrest him∣selfe to Agathocles; vvho all the vvhile vvas a spectator of

the miscarriage of his affaires. After some expressions of shame, he told him the passages of his Love, wants, the womans disdaine, and his Cretan Rivall; and in briefe, how he could not live without Chariclea's conversation. He, holding it at that time unseasonable to expostulate with Dinias, why of all his friends he excluded him, and preferr'd his flatterers before him, ••old the onely house he had, left him in Samos by his father, for three Talents, and brought him the price: which he no sooner received, but he left off to be obscure to Chariclea, and became once more amiable. The maid was againe sent with letters, and a complaint for his strangenesse. His flatterers also resor∣ted to him, with much insinuation, seeing he had yet something to give. Dinias promised to come to her, and came about the time of the first sleep. But, whither by his voluntary foreknowledge, or by designe with his wife, for both are reported, Demonax, Chariclea's husband was within: who rising, as it were, from an Ambush, com∣manded to shut the doores, and to take Dinias; threatning fire, and whips, and drawing his sword as against an A∣dulterer. He seeing in what danger he was, snatcht up a barre which lay neare, and slew Demonax with a blow on the head, and next Chariclea; but not with one blow, but iterated strokes which he gave her, partly with the barre, lastly with her husbands sword. The servants in the meane time stood speechlesse, and astonish't at the no∣velty of the enterprize. But endeavouring at length to ap∣prehend him, he no sooner made resistance with the sword but they all fled. Dinias, after his great atchieve∣ment, conveyed himselfe privately away, and lodged till morning with Agathocles, where they discoursed what had happen'd; and considered what might be the issue. 'Twas no sooner day but souldiers beset the house, (for the fact was by this time divulged) and tooke Dinias; whom, not at all denying the murthers, they brought before the then Governour of Asia; who sent him to the great

King, who not long after doomed him to Gyarus, one of the Cyclad Ilands, there to remaine banish't during his life. Agathocles, who had assisted at his other mis-fortunes, say∣led with him also into Italy, and was the onely friend that stuck to him at his arraignment, and failed him in no good office. Nay after Dinias was banish't, he was not forsaken of his friend; who voluntarily sentenced him∣selfe, associated him in the Isle, and shared in his banish∣ment. At length wanting all necessary sustenance, and supplyes, he hired himselfe to certaine purple dyers, to dive for them, and nourisht Dinias with his gaines; and at∣tended him also in a lingring sicknesse; and after his death he refused to returne into his owne Country, but tarried still in the Isle; holding it a reproach to forsake his friend though dead. These were the Acts of a Graecian friend, not of any ancient performance; For I know not well whether it be more then five yeares since Agathocles dyed in the Island.

Toxaris.

I could wish Mnesippus, you had told this sto∣ry unsworne, that I might not have believed it. For in A∣gathocles you have decipher'd a Scythian friend, I feare you have not such another example.

Mnesipp.

Heare, therefore, another, Toxaris; And it shall be Euthydicus of Chalcis; whose story was told me by Simy∣lus, a Pilot of Megara, who swore he was witnesse to the whole passage. He said, he sayled from Italy towards A∣thens, about the setting of the Pleiades, and transported a mixt Company of Passengers. Among whom was Eu∣thydicus, and with him Damon of Chalcis, who was his friend, of equall yeares; onely Euthydicus was the lustier and stronger, Damon was pale, and feeble, and appeared like one lately recovered from a long sicknesse. They say∣led, said Simylus as far as Sicily with prosperous winds; But upon their passage from that Sea into the Ionian, they were surprized with a great tempest; And not to spin out the Story vvith the descriptions of the vast risings, and Bil∣lovves,

and the other calamities of the storme; vvhen they vvere neere Zacynthus, sayling vvith a naked yard, and holding by the Tackling, the better to receive the fury of the vvaves, about midnight Damon, distemper'd vvith the tossing, stoopt dovvne to vomit into the sea, and the ship, as I guesse, at that time shelving much on that side vvhere he stood, and driven by the storme, he fell headlong into the sea, not naked, vvhich might have advantaged the unfortunate man in svvimming. Being almost stifled, he cryed out, and vvith much labour raysed himself above the flood: vvhich Euthydocus no sooner heard, vvho by good fortune vvas then naked on the deck, but he cast himselfe into the Sea, and laying hold on Damon then gasping, (for by the moone-shine vve beheld the vvhole adventure) he svvamme by him, and held him up. They in the Ship stri∣ved to succour them, out of pitty to their mutuall distresse; but could not, being ravish't away by the violence of the winde. All they could doe, was to throw many Corkes, and poles to them, on which if they could lay hold, they might support themselves; and after all they let downe a Ladder of no small length. Consider, now I pray, what stronger testimony of affection could any man show to his friend, then by night to cast himselfe into a Tempestuous sea, and to partake in his death. Lay, I say, before your imagination, the swelling of the waves, the horrid murmure of the Billowes rolling together, the foame boy∣ling round about, the night, and dispaire; then the one beginning to be choakt, and hardly able to beare himselfe above water, or to reach out his hand to his friend, the o∣ther presently leaping overboard, and swimming by him, and fearing lest Damon should perish before him; and you will perceive that this Euthydicus whom I have reported to you was no degenerous friend.

Toxaris.

Were they both drowned, Mnesippus, or did some unexpected deliverance befall them? for I have all this while assisted them with my feares.

Mnesipp.

Take courage Toxaris, they were both saved, and do now study Philosophy at Athens. All that Simylus▪ could report was, what he saw by night, the one tumbling over-board, the other leaping after him, and both swim∣ming together, which was all the spectacle he could have of them in the darke. The rest of the escape is told by Eu∣thydicus himselfe; As first, that having lighted on some Corkes, they supported themselves by them, and with much difficulty kept themselves floating; At last, towards morning, when they saw a Ladder let downe, they swam to it, and ascending the vessell, they safely sailed on to Za∣cynthus. Next to these examples, not vulgar, as I suppose, lend me your Attention to a third, not at all inferiour to the other two. Eudamidas, the Corinthian, held straight friendship with Aretaeus of Corinth, and Charixenus the Sicyonian: being himselfe as poore as they were wealthy▪ At his death he left a will, in the judgement of others, per∣haps, ridiculous, though I know not whether it will ap∣peare so to you, who are a good man, and value friend∣ship, and therein deserve to be rankt with the foremost. The purpose of it was this. I bequeath to Aretaeus my mother, to be maintained, and cherisht in her old age. And to Charixenus my daughter, to be bestowed vvith as great a dovvry as he can possibly give vvith her. Novv he had a mother very aged; and a daughter ripe for marriage. And if, said he, either of them shall die in the meane time, let the other take his burden. When his vvill vvas read, they vvho knevv onely his poverty, and knevv not vvhat friendship vvas betvveene Eudamidas and these tvvo men, made it matter of sport: and there vvas no man vvho de∣parted not smiling at the Legacies bequeathed to rich Are∣taeus, and Charixenus; and saying, that they vvere to pay Legacies to Eudamidas, and that the survivers vvere to give inheritances to the deceast. But the heires, vvho vvere thus left, came assoone as they heard of the vvill, and rati∣fied it in all the particulars. Onely Charixenus survived

him five dayes, and dyed. Whereupon Aretaeus, the gene∣rous successor of both, tooke upon him both his ovvne, and the others charge: and maintaines Eudamidas's Mo∣ther, and not long since matcht his daughter; and of the five talents vvhich he vvas vvorth, he gave tvvo vvith his ovvne daughter, and tvvo vvith his friend's, and caused their marriages to be celebrated upon the same day. And novv Toxaris vvhat thinke you of this Aretaeus? Hath he not given a noble instance of friendship, to inherit such Legacies, and not to frustrate his friends will? Is he, think you, In just account to be reckond among the five?

Toxaris.

He is a rare example. Yet I much more admire the confidence of Eudamidas in his friends: whereby he gave proofe that he would have done the like for them, though charged by no will, and had prevented others, though hee had not beene written heire to such Lega∣cyes.

Mnesipp.

You say well. The fourth, then, of whom I shall speake is Zenothemis, the sonne of Charmoleus, borne at Marcelleis. He was showne to mee in Italy, when I was there Ambassadour for my Country. Hee seemed to be a man of goodly presence, bigge, and wealthy. By him in Coach as he travelled sate his wife, every way deformed, especially lame of her right side, blind of one eye, a Hagge perfectly loathsome, and not to be approacht. I wondring that one so proper, and beautifull, should have the pati∣ence to wedde a woman so mishapen, hee who show'd him to mee told mee the occasion of his marriage; exactly knowing all passages, being himselfe of Marcelleis. Zeno∣themis, said he, was friend to Menecrates; this ill-featured womans father, whom he equall'd in wealth and honour; though he abounded in both. It came to passe that Me∣necrates was ruined in his fortune, and made uncapable of honour by the sentence of the sixe hundred, as one that had given Judgement contrary to Law. For so, said he, do wee of Marcelleis punish those who pronounce cor∣ruptly.

Menecrates was much grieved, both for his doome, and that in an instant of a rich man hee was made poore, and of a great man dishonourable. But above all his daughter troubled him most, now marriageable, being eighteene yeares old, whom not with all fortunes which her father before his sentence possest, any, either rich, or poore, would vouchsafe to marry, of such affright∣ing lineaments: was she. She was said too, to have the fits of the falling evill, at every increase of the Moone. When Menecrates layd all this open to Zenothemis in one complaint: hee bid him take heart, and told him that he should neither want accommodations, nor his daughter a husband worthy her descent. And so saying he tooke him by the hand, brought him to his house, divided his estate, which was very great, with him, and made a feast, where he entertained his friends, and among them Menecrates, as if he had prevailed with one of them to accept the wench in marriage. The meale being ended, and grace said, de∣livering to him a full bowle, Take, said he, Menecrates from thy sonne in law a pledge of Alliance; for to day I will mar∣ry Cydimache thy daughter: I have formerly received five and twenty Talents as her dowry. The other replyed, the Gods forbid, It must not be Zenothemis, nor must I be so mad to suffer you, a young man, and amiable, to be joy∣ned to a deform'd, opprobrious girle. Thus saying, the o∣ther tooke his bride, led her into his chamber, and a while after brought her forth unvirgin'd, and from that time lives most affectionately with her, and carries her every where, as you see, about vvith him; And is so farre from taking shame at his match, that hee makes it his glory to shovv hovv much he contemnes the beauties, or deformities of the body; Riches also, & opinion, and reflects onely on Menecrates, his friend: vvhom he thinkes not the lesse capable of his friendship for being sentenced by the sixe hundred. Though fortune have for this requited him. For a very faire sonne hath been borne to him of a very fowle

mother. 'Tis not long since his father tooke him, and car∣ried him into the Court crown'd with a green chaplet, and clad in mourning, the better to winne pitty to his Grand∣father. The Infant smiled upon the Judges, and clapt it's hands: whereupon the Court was so taken with him, that they forgave his Fine, and restor'd him to his honours, o∣vercome by such an advocate. Thus much the Marcilean affirm'd Zenothemis to have done for his friend: wherein you find nothing ordinary, or done like you Scythians; who are said to choose onely the most beautifull your Mistresses. I passe on to the fift. Nor thinke I it fit to speake of any other and to omit Demetrius the Sunian. This Demetrius sayled in company into Aegypt with Anti∣philus of Alopece; who was his friend of a child; and with whom he grew up, and was bred to the study of Cynicke Philosophy under Rhodius the Sophister; Antiphi∣lus to Physicke. But at this time Demetrius went into Ae∣gypt to see the Pyramides, and Memnon's Statue. For he had heard that from their great height they did cast no sha∣dow; and that Memnon at every Sun rising was vocall. Drawne, therefore, with the desire of those spectacles, in August hee sayled up the Nile, and left Antiphilus tyred with travell and heat; who, in the mean time, fell into a misfortune, which required the assistance of a generous friend. For one Syrus his servant, so stiled from his Coun∣try, by conspiracy with certaine sacrilegious thieves, broke into Anubis Temple, and stole the God, two golden Cha∣lices, a guilt Cad••ceus, diverse dogges heads of silver, with other things. All which they left to be kept by Syrus. Soone after being apprehended selling some things, they confest all upon their first torture upon the wheele. And being carried to Antiphilus lodging, they produced the things stolne, secretly under a Couch. Syrus was present∣ly bound, and his master Antiphilus ravisht from his Tu∣tor as he was then at Lecture. No man assisted him, but they who were but till then his friends, shunned him as a

robber of Anubis Temple, and thought it Impiety either to drinke or to eate with him. His other servants, who were two, rifling all that was in the house betooke themselves to flight. Long time lay miserable Antiphilus in shackles, of all the malefactors there imprisoned held the greatest. The Goaler, also, an Aegyptian, a man superstitious, thought he pleasured and revenged his God by being harsh to An∣tiphilus. If at any time he defended himselfe, and denyed the Fact, he was held impudent, and became so much the more odious. This drew on a sicknesse, and cast him into a disease. And no marvaile, lying nightly on the ground, and not able to extend his legges lockt up in the stocks. For by day he was inclosed in a cage, and but one of his hands manacled, but by night he lay wholly in fetters. Adde to this the stinke, and ill ayre of the house, arising from so many close prisoners, thrust into a narrow roome, and scarce able to breath; Then the sound of Irons, and broken sleepes, all which were grievous, and intolerable to one unpractised, and unaccustomed to so hard a kind of usage. As hee thus languisht, and refused to eate any meat, Demetrius return'd, ignorant of what had happen'd. But assoone as he knew how things stood, he presently ran to the prison, but was not permitted entrance. It being then night, and the Goaler having long before lockt the doore, and gone to sleepe, and commanded his under keepers to watch. In the morning, after much intreaty, he was let in; and comming neere, 'twas long before he could finde Antiphilus, so much disguised was hee with his misfortunes. In search of him, therefore, hee viewed every prisoner, like those who seeke the wither'd bodies of their dead friends after a slaughter. So that had he not aloud revealed himselfe to be Antiphilus, the sonne of De∣nomenes, he had beene long unknowne who he was; so transformed was he by his calamities. But assoone as he answered to his Friends voyce, and, as he came near, strokt aside his hayre, which hung fowle, and knotted over his

face, and discovered who he was, both fell downe a∣mazed at the strangenesse of the spectacle. After a while, both comming to themselves, Demetrius enquired of him exactly how he fell into that mishap. And bid him take courage, divided his mantle, and wore one halfe himselfe, the other he gave to him; and stript him of his owne tot∣ter'd ragges. And from that time giving him his best as∣sistances, he tooke care of him, and attended him. For hi∣ring himselfe out from morning till noone to certaine Merchants, who then lay in the Haven, his gaines were not sma••l which he earn'd by carrying burdens; and still when he returned from his labour, part of his gaines he gave to the Goaler to mollifie and make him gentle, the rest plentifully serv'd to supply his friend. By day, there∣fore, he kept Antiphilus company, and comforted him; and when night came, he reposed himselfe not far from the prison gate upon a bed made of grasse and boughes. Thus a while they lived; Demetrius had free accesses, which much mitigated the afflictions of Antiphilus: Till at length, upon the death of a certaine thiefe in the prison, it seemes, poyson'd, the gates were strictlier kept, and no man was any more permitted to enter into the house, whereat Demetrius much perplext, and troubled, and ha∣ving no other way to relieve his friend, went to the Ma∣gistrate, and accused himselfe for one of those who broke into Anubis Temple. Upon which confession he was pre∣sently carryed to the prison, and brought to Antiphilus; and with much petition obtained of the Keeper that he might be chained next to him in the same ••ives. Here, then, was a rare expression of friendship, to dispise his owne mise∣ries, and though he were himselfe sicke, yet he tooke care that the other might sleep quietly, and undisturbed. Thus lessen'd they their misfortunes by communion; Till not long after an Accident happen'd which did almost put a period to their sufferings. For one of the prisoners, having, I know not from whence, got a file, and made most of

the other prisoners of the conspiracy, filed asunder a chain to which they were fasten'd by a row of shackles, and let them all loose. They having easily slaine their Keepers, being but few, issued forth in Tumults, and presently di∣spersed themselves severall wayes as they safeliest might, though many of them were afterwards taken. Demetrius and Antiphilus remain'd, and stay'd Syrus, ready to follow the rest. Next morning, the Prefect of Aegypt, knowing what had happen'd, sent pursuers after them; and sending for those who were with Demetrius releast them of their shackles; much praysing them that they onely refused to make an escape. They were not at all pleased with their manner of dismission Demetrius, therefore, proclam'd both himselfe & friend much injured, if being taken for malefactors, they should be thought worthy of pitty, or praise, or releasement, because they did not breake pri∣son. To conclude, therefore, they compelld the Judge more exactly to reexamini the business; who finding them innocent, with great praises of both, and admiration of Demetrius acquitted them. And as a recompence for the punishment, and shackles, which they unjustly suffer'd, he gave them large gifts; ten thousand drachmes to Anti∣philus, and twice so many to Demetrius. Antiphilus is now in Aegypt. But Demetrius bestowing his twenty thousand Drachmes on his friend, went into India to the Brachmans; saying onely thus much to Antiphilus at his departure, that he hop't he was excusable if he then left him; and that he needed not mony as long as he was of a composition to be content with a little; nor that hee any farther wanted a friend, whose affaires were so well accomplish't. These were Graecian Friends, Toxaris. And here, had you not in the beginning noted us for high talkers, I could repeat to you the many excellent Orations spoken by Demetrius at his Arraignment, where he made no defence for him∣selfe; but spent teares and supplications for Antiphilus; and tooke the whole offence upon himself, till Syrus urged

by scourging acquitted both. These few examples of many famous, and constant friends, as they first offer'd themselves to my remembrance, have I reported to you. 'Tis now time that finishing my Narration, you should begin yours, whom it will concerne to produce Scythians not of inferiour, but of much more eminent example, if you intend your right hand shall not be cut off. Be con∣stant to your selfe therefore; For 'twill show most ridicu∣lous in you, having, so like a Sophister, extoll'd Orestes and Pylades, to show your selfe a bad Oratour for your Country.

Toxaris.

You do well, Mnesippus, to invite me to speake, and not to show your selfe afraid, that vanquisht by my narrations, your tongue shall be cut out. I begin, then, not like you, with Trappings of speech, (a thing unusu∣all to Scythians) since the realities of my stories shall be more eloquent then the Historian. Nor are you to expect from me stories like yours, who have magnified a man for wedding a deformed woman, without a portion; Ano∣ther for giving two Talents in Marriage with his friends daughter; a third for casting himselfe voluntarily into shackles; knowing he was shortly after to be releast. All which are slight passages, and have nothing high, or man∣ly in them. I will recount to you slaughters, warres, and deaths undergone for Friends; whereby you shall per∣ceive how childish your undertakings are compared to ours. Yet it is not without cause that you admire your own small adventures, since living in a firme, establisht peace, you want those Heroick opportunities, by which friend∣ships are to be tryed. As you cannot judge in a calme of the Abilities of a Pilot, which are best discovered in a storme. Whereas we have continuall warres, and do ei∣ther invade others, or are invaded our selves; or joyning battle do fight for pastures, or prey. Hence stand we most in need of good friends, whose Armes become uncon∣quer'd, and impregnable from the strictnesse of our friend∣ships.

First, then, let mee tell you, that the Ceremonies by which wee initiate friends, are not, like yours, perform'd in Bowles, and Potations; or with our equals, or neigh∣bours: but when we see a man valiant, and able for great Actions, wee all presently affect him; and the same course which you take to win your wives, do we take to beget friends. We court them much, and omit no application, which may defeat us of their friendship, or render us de∣spised. And when choice is made of a friend, articles are next entred into, and a solemne oath taken, that they shall mutually live, and, if need be, die, for one another. Next, having open'd a veine in our hand, we receive the blood in a cup, in which wee dippe the points of our swords; then both drinke, nor can any thing afterwards divide us. These leagues at most consist of three: wee account of him who is a friend to more, as we do of common adul∣terate wives, and never thinke his a firme lasting friend∣ship, which is divided among many. I will begin, then, with the late Deeds of Dandamis. This Dandamis seeing his friend Amizocas taken prisoner in a skirmish with the Sarmatians— But first I will take my oath as we agreed in the beginning. By this Ayre, and Sagar, I will report no untruths, Mnesippus, of our Scythian friendships.

Mnesipp:

I might very well spare your oath, Toxaris, if you sweare by none of the Gods.

Toxaris,

Why? Do not you take the Winde, and Sagar for Gods? or know you not that to Mortalls nothing is greater then life and death? wee sweare by those two as often as we sweare by the Winde the cause of Life, and a Sagar the cause of Death.

Mnesipp:

If this be a good reason, you may have many such Gods as your Sagar; as a Dart, Speare, and Poyson, and a Rope; for death is a various and numerous Deity; and is by endlesse wayes attained.

Toxaris.

See what a caviller, and wrangler you are, thus to trouble, and divert my discourse, who all the while you spoke kept silence.

Mnesipp:

You deservedly chide mee, Toxaris. Hereaf∣ter, therefore, I will not interrupt you. Proceed, therefore, in your story; you shall have mee as silent, as if I were ab∣sent, to your Relations.

Toxaris.

The fourth day, then, after Dandamis, and Ami∣zocas had joyned friendship, and confirmed it with a mu∣tuall draught of blood, the Sarmatians entred our Coun∣try with ten thousand Horse, and thirty thousand foote. We, surprized with their invasion, were put into a di∣straction: some, vvho made resistance they slevv; some they led avvay alive; none scap't, but such as svvam crosse the River, vvhere lay halfe our Army, and a great part of our vvaggons. For our Commanders, I knovv not for vvhat designe had at that time lodged their Troopes on both sides of Tanais. They, therefore, easily made their prey, led avvay captive, ransackt our Tents, tooke our Chariots vvith the men, and ravisht our vvives, and con∣cubines before our eyes. The accident much troubled us. But Amizocas, as he vvas led captive, and manacled, loudly invok't his friend, and remembred him of the cuppe, and blood. Which Dandamis no sooner heard, but vvithout delay in the sight of all he svvumme over to the enemies, vvho cast shovvres of darts at him; and had vvith one assault thrust him through had he not cryed out Zizis: At the pronuntiation of vvhich vvord they slay no man, but receive him, as yielding himselfe to be ransomed. Being brought to their Generall, he deman∣ded his friend, and he demanded his ransome, and refused to give him liberty but at an excessive price. Then said Dandamis, all my possessions and fortunes you have taken from mee. If naked, as I am, I can make you satisfaction, I am ready. Make your demands. Take mee, if you please in exchange, and abuse mee as you list. 'Twere needlesse, replyed the Sarmatian, to keepe thee who didst voluntarily yield thy selfe. Give something which thou now possessest in ransome of thy friend, and take him.

Dandamis bid him aske what he would. He required his eyes; which the other presently submitted to be pluck't out. Which being done, and the Sarmatians allowing it for a ransome, hee returned, leaning on his friend, and swimming with him back againe safely arrived at us. This Action struck spirit into the Scythians, who now thought themselves not vanquisht, since the thing by us most valued was not conquered by the enemy; but that our courage, and Constancy to our friends, was still un∣subdued. The Sarmatians, on the contrary, were much terrified, when they consider'd what men they were to encounter upon preparation; though they then overcame them by surprize. 'Twas therefore, no sooner night, but leaving most of their spoyles behind them, and burning our Chariots, they betooke themselves to flight. Amizocas in the meane time, disdaining the use of his eyes, after his friend had lost his, made himselfe blinde. And now sight∣lesse, as they are, they are observ'd, and kept with all ho∣nour at the publicke charge of the Scythians. I doubt, Mne∣sippus, whether you could equall this example, though I should allow you to joyne ten more to your five; or if un∣sworne you should have liberty to use what fictions you list. I have deliver'd nothing but naked story, which in your narration had, I know right well, been painted with all variety of circumstances; How affectionate Danda∣mis intreaties were; how gladly he lost his eyes; what he sayd, how he return'd, and with what acclamations he was received; with other passages, wherewith you artifici∣ally worke on your hearers. Heare, next▪ the story of Belitta, Cousin German to Amizocas, equall to the former. He beholding Basthes his friend, at a hunting, pluck't from his horse by a Lyon, who infolding him in his pawes, be∣gan to teare his throat, alighting from his horse leapt upon the Lyons backe, forcibly rayned backe his head upon himselfe, spurr'd, and provok't him, thrust his fingers into his mouth; and laboured with all his strength to free

Basthes from his Jawes, till the Lyon leaving him halfe dead turned upon Belitta; and griping him in his pawes kill'd him, who dying, had onely the power to thrust his sword into the Lyons paunch, and so all three expired. Whom we have buried, and erected two neighbouring monuments, one to the two friends, the other just oppo∣site to the Lyon. My third relation shall be of the friend∣ship of Macentes, Lonchatas, and Arsacomas. This Arsaco∣mas became enamoured of Mazaea, daughter of Leucanor, who raigned in Bosphorus, at that time when he was sent Embassadour thither to demand the Tribute, which the Bosphorans are obliged to pay us; but were then be∣hind three months beyond their accustomed day. For ha∣ving sight of Mazaea at a feast, a goodly, and amiable La∣dy, he was enflamed, and much struck with her. The bu∣sinesse of the tribute was now transacted, and the King having given him his answer, and entertained him at a banquet, was ready to give him his dispatch. 'Tis the custome in Bosphorus that suiters wooe openly at Table, where they declare their Quality, and to what fortunes they can bring those they desire to marry. It happened that there were many suitors then present, both Kings, and Kings sonnes; Among whom were Tigrapates, Prince of Themiscyra, and Adyrmachus, Duke of Maclyna, hand many others; every wooer having revealed himself, and showne upon what confidence he came thither a suiter, is to feast with the rest, and to sit silent. The Feast ended, he is to take a cuppe, and to powre wine on the Table, then to addresse himselfe to the Bride, and to enlarge his owne praises, by declaring his Pedigree, wealth, and power. Many having perform'd the Ceremony, and extoll'd their Dominions, & estates, at last Arsacomas requesting the cup, spilt no wine (for we hold it reproachfull to the God to spill him) but taking it off at a draught, give me thy, daugh∣ter Mazaea, O King, said he, to wife, who for my riches, and possessions am much to be preferr'd before these; where∣at

Leucanor wondring, and knowing Arsacomas to be but a poore vulgar Scythian, ask't him, How many head of Cattle, and wagons have you, Arsacomas? for herein you Scythians are onely rich. I have, said he, neither waggons nor flocks; but I have two rare, and excellent friends, such as no Scythian hath besides, which raised their generall laughter, who contemned and thought him drunke. In the morning Adyrmachus was prefer'd before the rest, who shortly after purposed to carry his Bride into Maeotis to his Machlyans. At his returne Arsacomas reported to his two friends how dishonourably he was refused by the King, and laught at in the banquet for his poverty. Though, said he, I told him what great Treasures I had in you Lon∣chates, and Macentas, and in your friendship, which is much more pretious, and powerfull then all the Bosphoran forces, whereat he laught, and dispised us Scythians, and gave his daughter in marryage to Adyrmachus the Machlyan, for boasting himselfe to have ten golden Cuppes, eighty four∣seated Chariots, besides sheep and oxen in abundance; preferring before valiant men heards of Cattle, wrought bowles, and massie Chariots. Two things, then, my best friends, torment mee, my love of Mazaea, and affront in so publique an assembly, where, I suppose, you also e∣qually injur'd; s••nce every one severally is interested in the third par of the dishonour, if we live as vve begun at our first conjunction, three made one, and doe resent and re∣joyce at the same things. More then so, said Lonchates, in your sufferings the vvhole injury vvas offer'd to every one of us in particular. Hovv, then, replyed Macentas, shall vve order our revenge? let us divide, ansvvered Lonchates, the businesse among us. I dare undertake to bring Leuca∣nors head to Arsacomas, be it your taske to bring him his daughter. I accept the division, ansvvered Lonchates; and do you, said he, Arsacomas in the meane time (for the en∣terprize must in likelihood engage us in a vvarre) stay here, and raise vvhat Armes, Horses, and Forces you can:

which will be no hard matter, being your selfe a stout man, and our Allyes being not few, but especially if you sit upon the oxe hide. The designe pleased; and Lon∣chates presently tooke the next way into Bosphorus, Macen∣tes to the Machlyans, both well horst. But Arsacomas stay'd at home; and imparted the adventure to his equall ••••quaintances, and put some Companies of his familiars into armes; and lastly sate downe upon the oxe hide. Now our custome of the hide is this; when any man is inju∣red by another, and would redresse himselfe, and is un∣able to wage warre, he sacrificeth an oxe, whose flesh he divides into parcels, and roasts it; then spreading the hide upon the ground, sits on it, holding his hands behind him, like those who are pinion'd. And this with us is the most passionate way of petitioning. Then the flesh of the oxe roasted being set to the publike accesse, his neere acquain∣tances, and whosoever else will, assemble to him, and ta∣king every one a piece, and treading on the hide with their right foote, promise ayd according to their abilities; one to find five horse at his owne charge, another ten, another more, another as many Armed foote souldiers, as he can; and he that is poorest, himselfe: so that sometimes great troopes are gather'd to the hide, and an Army thus raised is of firmest combination, and as inviolable to the enemy, as if they were knit by Sacrament; for to tread upon the hide is with us an oath. Thus did Arsacomas order mat∣ters; to whom repair'd about five thousand horsemen, and promiscuously armed twenty thousand foot. Lon∣chates, in the mean time, passing unknowne into Bospho∣rus got accesse to the King then busie in affaires of State; and told him that he came publikely sent by the Scythians, but that the greatnesse of his message requir'd to be de∣liver'd in private. The King bidding him speake his em∣bassie. As for their common, dayly grievances, said he, the Scythians forbid that your shepheards any more passe beyond your owne plaines, but feed their flocks within

Tracho. Next, they deny those theeves, whereof you accuse them for over-running your Country, to have any pub∣like warrant; but say, they rob for their owne private gaine, and that if any of them be taken, 'tis in your power to punish them. And this I have commission to tell you from them. But from my owne private Intelligence I do informe you, that Arsacomas, the sonne of Mariantas, who was lately embassadour here, will shortly make a great in∣vasion upon you, the cause, I guesse to be your refusall of him when he desired your daughter, which he takes as a dishonour, and hath already sate seaven dayes upon the hide; and contracted an Army not contemptible. I have heard, sayd Leucanor, that forces were assembled to the hide, but knew not that they were raised against us; or that Arsacomas ruled the expedition. Against thee, said Lon∣chates, is the preparation made. But Arsacomas is my ene∣my, and takes resentment that our Elders should preferre mee before him; or that I should in all things eclipse his reputation; If therefore, Thou wilt contract thy o∣ther daughter Barcetis to mee, who am not unworthy of the Alliance, ere long I will returne and bring thee his head. I do here promise said the King, exceedingly fright∣ed, knowing the cause of Arsacomas quarrell to be the de∣nyall of his marriage. Besides, the Scythians had ever been dreadfull to him. Sweare, said Lonchates, to keepe cove∣nants, and never to deny them, which the King preparing to do, and being ready to sweare with his hands lift up to heaven, forbeare thus openly, Sir, said the other, lest some of the beholders make interpretations of your Oath. But let us enter into this Temple of Mars, and shut the doores, that none may overheare you: for if the least re∣velation be made to Arsacomas, I feare, he will begin the warre with my sacrifice, being already fortified with no small Regiments. Let us enter, said the King; and keepe you distance, nor let any approach the Temple whom I shall not call. Being enter'd, and the guard farre removed,

Lonchates drew his Sagar, and stopping his mouth with the other hand to suppresse cryes, stabb'd him in the brest. Then cutting off his head, and carrying it under his cloacke, he went forth, making as if he spoke to him all the while, and saying he would presently come againe, as if he had beene sent by the King upon businesse. And so returning to the place where hee left his horse tyed, mounting he rode back into Scythia. But no pursuit was made after him, because 'twas long before the Bosphorans knew what was done; and when they knew they grew factious for the Kingdome. Thus accomplish't Lonchates his atchievment, and fulfilled his undertaking by the de∣livery of Leucanors head to Arfacomas. Macentes having intell••gence by the way of the Bosphoran affaires, past on to the Machlyans, and vvas the first reporter of the Kings death. But the people, said he, call on you, Adyrmachus, being his sonne in Lavv, to accept the Crovvne; By vvay of Anticipation, therefore, things favouring you by their distraction, shovv your selfe unexpectedly, and assume the Empire. Let your vvife by Coach follovv after: vvhose presence, being Leucanors daughter, vvill give you a quick interest in the vulgar Bosphorans. As for me, I am both an Aliance, and of affinity to your vvife by the mo∣ther. For Leucanor married Mastera from my Country: from vvhose brothers at Alania I am novv sent vvith commission to exhort you to make all hasty dispatch into Bosphorus; and not to suffer the Crovvne to fall on Eubia∣tus, Leucanors base brother, a long friend to the Scythians, and disaffected to the Alanes. Thus said Macentes, resem∣bling that people both in his habit, and speech. for there is onely this difference betvveene them, that the Alanes vveare not their haire so long as the Scythians; vvhich Macentes having nevvly cut, past easily undistinguish't, and gained credit to his disguise, under vvhich he vvas taken for Mastera's, and Mazaea's kinsman. And novv, said he, I am ready, Adyrmachus, as you please to command mee;

either to accompany you into Bosphorus, or to stay, and as occasion serves to conduct your wife. I had much ra∣ther, replyed Adyrmachus, that being of her alliance you would convey my wife. For by accompanying mee into Bosphorus you shall but adde one horseman more to the Troope: but in conducting my wife you will serve in stead of many. Things thus resolved, he presently began his journey, and left Mazaea yet a virgin, to be brought after by Macentes; who by day carried her in a coach. But when night came, by designe with one of his servants, who followed him with horses, he set her on horse-back, and mounting himselfe, kept not any longer the way to∣wards Moeotis, but turning aside to the Mediterranean, and leaving the Mitraean mountaines on his right hand, appeasing the young Lady the best hee could, in three dayes passage through the Machlyans, he arrived in Scythia: where his horse no sooner finish't his course, but after a short stand expired. But Mecentes delivering Mazaea to Ar∣sacomas, Receive, said he, from mee my promise; and when the other much astonisht at the unhop't for spe∣ctacle prepared to thanke him: Forbeare, said Macentes, to make me any other then your selfe, For to acknowledge your selfe obliged to mee for what I have done, is as if my left hand should give thankes to the right, for curing it wounded, and affording it friendly attendance. Twere, then, most ridiculous in us, if after a long conjunction, wee, who as farre as 'tis possible became one, should put great values upon any thing adventurously atchieved by a part for the whole. Since being but a part, the good wrought for the whole, was wrought for the part too. Thus said Macentes to Arsacomas, preparing to give him thankes. But when Adyrmachus heard of the plot, he broke off his journey intended for Bosphorus; for there Eubiotus was Crowned, called home from Sarmatia, where hee sojourn'd, and returning to his Country rais••d a great Army, and through the mountaines made an invasion

upon Scythia. Shortly after he was seconded by Eubiotus, who led a promiscuous Army of Greekes, Alanes, and choyce Sarmatians, consisting of 20000 of each, which joyned to Adyrmachus Troopes, made an Army of ninety Thousand; whereof the third part were Horse Archers: we on the contrary, (I bearing a share in the expedition, to which I with others assembled to the hide contributed an hundred well appointed horsemen) having gather'd a body, little lesse then thirty thousand, with our Cavalry attended their assault, having Arsacomas for our Gene∣rall. As they made their approach, we march't Counter, placeing our forces of Horse in front. After a long un∣certaine battle, we were put to the worst, and our Squa∣drons routed; And at last the Scythians being divided in∣to two bodies, one part fled, as if apparently vanquish't, but in a kind of retreat, so as the Alanes durst not pursue them farre, but incircling the other part which was the weaker, with help of the Machlyans, made great slaugh∣ter with their showres of Darts, and Arrowes: so that our men thus besieged were very much distressed, and many of them threw away their Armes; in which number by chance were Lonchates, and Macentes; who more forward then others to put themselves upon dangers, were both wounded, Lonchates with a poyson'd dart which burnt his thigh, Macentes with a stroke of a Battle axe on the head, and a halberd on the shoulder, which when Arsa∣comas understood, who was then with us in the other part of the Army, holding it dishonourable not to relieve his friends, putting spurres to his horse, with loud cryes and his sword drawne he broke through the enemy, nor could the Machlyans resist his fury, but gave him passage. He having brought off his friends, and given new cou∣rage to the rest, rusht upon Adyrmachus, and striking him on the neck with his whineyard, cleft him downe to the girdle, upon vvhose fall the vvhole Army of the Machlyans vvere disorder'd, and soone after the Alanes, and

after all the Grecians. So that by an after Battle wee con∣quer'd, and pursued them with a great slaughter, to which onely the night gave a period: next day came Embassa∣dours from the enemy with petitions of League. The Bosphorans covenanted to pay double Tribute, the Mach∣lyans promised to give Hostages; the Alanes in discharge of that invasion undertooke to subdue the Syndians anci∣ent enemies to our State. To these Articles wee agreed, led chiefly by the consents of Arsacomas, and Lonchates, who sway'd the rest, and a peace was concluded. These, Mnesippus, are the exployts of Scythians for their friends.

Mnesipp.

They are very Tragicall, Toxaris, and sound like Romances; your Sagar, therefore, and wind by which you swore must grant easie pardons, and not blame him much that shall not believe you.

Toxaris.

Take heed, generous Sir, your envy cause not your infidelity: yet shall not your hardnesse of faith di∣vert mee from reporting the like enterprizes perform'd by other Scythians of my knowledge.

Mnesipp.

Be not tedious, then, I beseech you, excellent Sir, nor let your discourse be Errantry, or sometimes wan∣der up and downe Scythia, and Machlyna, then passe over into Bosphorus, at last returne home to the vexati∣on of my silence.

Toxaris.

You shall be obeyed in your impositions and I will be briefe, lest your attention should tire in following my Digressions. Heare then what a friend of mine call'd Sisinnes did for mee. When I tooke my voyage for A∣thens, out of my desire to the Greeke education, I stroke in at Amastris, a Towne of Pontus, lying just in passage to those who saile from Scythia, and not farre distant from Carambe. Sisinnes bore mee company, my friend of a child. Here wee saw certaine Merchandizes brought into the Haven, which carrying ashore we bought, not suspecting any mischance. In the mean time, some theeves broke open our trunkes, and stole all we had, and left us not

enough to supply us for that day. At our returne from our Lodging, understanding what had happened, we thought it not fit to question the neighbours being many, or our Hoste, out of our feare to be taken for Braggarts, if wee should have complain'd that foure hundred Daricks, diverse suits of rich apparell, and hangings, and whatsoe∣ver else we had, had beene stolne from us. Wee consul∣ted, therefore, what men thus impoverisht were to doe in a strange place my resolution was to kill my selfe, by fal∣ling on my sword, before I was cast upon base wayes of reliefe, either by thirst or famine. But Sisinnes by his bet∣ter counsels diverted mee from such a fact: And said hee had found a way to sustaine us. That day his gaines for carrying wood from the wharfe supplyed us with victu∣als. Next morning, as he walkt in the market place, hee saw (as he tells the story) a gallant show of stout young Gentlemen, who man by man were chosen for a prize set, to enter combate the third day following. Ha∣ving well instructed himselfe in the conditions, hee came to mee, and said, Toxaris, hereafter call not your selfe poore, for three dayes hence I will enrich you. Wee passing the time in miserable reliefes, at the day of the show came thither as spectators. Inviting mee abroad he carried me to the Theater, as to some delightfull spectacle of the Grae∣cians. Having seated our selves, we saw first some wild beasts peirced with javelins, and hunted with dogges; o∣thers let loose upon certaine men bound, whom wee guessed to be malefactors. When the combatants entred, the cryer produced a young man of vast size, saying, if any man will enter duell with this Champion, let him stand forth, and as the reward of the fight he shall receive ten thou∣sand Drachmes. Sisinnes presently rising up, leapt our, undertooke the combate, and required armes; and recei∣ving the mony deliver'd it into my hands; saying, If I overcome, Toxaris, when we depart this shall be our via∣ticum. If I be slaine, bury mee, and returne to Scythia. The

words drew sighs from wee, whilst hee taking the Ar∣mour, put it all on but the helmet, and fought bare hea∣ded. In the first encounter he was wounded with a re∣verst blow in the hamme; at which much blood issued, which halfe slew mee with feare; but hee stoutly obser∣ving his adversaries assaults, ran him through the brest, whereupon hee fell presently at his feet. And hee faint with his wound was forced to sit downe upon his con∣quest; so neere was he expiration. I running to him, rais'd him, and gave him heart. And after hee was declared victor, tooke him upon my backe, and carried him home: where he lay a while under cure, but is now recover'd, and lives in Scythia, marryed to my sister, onely he is still lame of his wound. This, Mnesippus, was not done a∣mong the Machlyans, or in Alania, which might give you colours for your distrust. But the Amastrians have yet in fresh memory Sisinnes combate. I will conclude my first narration with the story of Abauchas. This Abauchas ar∣rived at the Citty of the Borysthenians, and brought with him his wife, whom hee exceedingly loved, and two children, one a sucking boy, the other a girle, of the age of seven yeares. He had besides in his company a friend, one Gyndanes, who lay sick of a wound received by the way from certaine theeves which as••aulted them. By whom in the skirmish he was hurt in the thigh, and dis∣abled from standing by the paine. One night as they lodg∣ed in an upper chamber, and were all asleepe, a great fire happen'd, which shut them in, and surrounded the house. At which Abauchas awaking, left his children crying, and thrusting away his wife, who cleaved to him, and bid∣ding her save her selfe, taking his friend upon his shoul∣ders, he carryed him downe, and broke with him through the flame untoucht. His wife bearing the little infant fol∣lovved, and bid her daughter follovv her, but halfe burnt she vvas constrained to cast the child from her armes, and yet hardly so escap't the flame; her daughter also

which closely follow'd was almost smother'd. After∣wards, when one objected to Abauchas, that he betray'd his wife, and children, and saved Gyndanes, 'Twill not be hard for mee, said hee, to beget more children; besides 'tis doubtfull how they will prove: but it must be a long time before I can find such another friend as Gyndanes; of whose affection I had so many tryalls. I have sayd, Mnesip∣pus, and have reported five examples of many. 'Tis now time to pronounce whether I be to loose my right hand, or you your tongue; who shall be Judge?

Mnesipp.

That wee did not agree upon. But Ile tell you what we will doe; since we have all this while shot with∣out a marke; let us upon a new agreement choose a Mo∣derator, and report before him other examples of friend∣ship. and as the conquest is decided, let either my tongue, or your hand be cutt off; or if such decision be too savage, since you seem to be an admirer of friendship; and since I hold nothing more excellent, or desirable to men, why should not wee two combind betweene our selves, here∣after become friends, and for ever enterchange affecti∣ons, being both conquerours, and both receiving the highest reward, instead of one tongue and one hand, two apiece; foure eyes also, & foure feet, & in a word, all things double? For two or three friends joyn'd become the Ge∣ryon described by writers to be a man vvith sixe hands, and three heads. But I suppose them three men vvho did all things in common as it becomes friends.

Toxaras.

You say vvell, be it so then.

Mnesippus.

To confirme our friendship, then, vve need not use a svvord, Toxaris, or blood. Our present discourse, and sympathy is much more povverfull then your Cuppe: since such friendships require affection not necessity for their ground.

Toxaris.

'Tis true. Be vve then mutually friends, and hostes, you to mee here in Greece, I to you vvhensoever you come into Scythia.

Mnesipp:

Assure your selfe, I would take a much longer voyage to gaine such a friend, as you, Toxaris, by your discourse have showne your selfe.